Saturday, December 6, 2008

Walk Through Bethlehem

Calvary First Assembly of God Church will present the 3rd annual Walk Through Bethlehem on two weekends this year. The event will take place at Calvary First at 4550 East Johnson Avenue (County Road 580) in Haines City from 6:30 – 9:00 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday the weekends of December 12,13 & 14 and December 19, 20 & 21.

With live animals and a cast of 40 plus in costume you will make your way through Bethlehem searching for lodging in the overcrowded city. Meet the shop keepers, the guards, and other travelers as you experience the sights, the sounds and the smells of this ancient city, Bethlehem. Come and experience what life may have been like during the birth of Christ. This free event is open to the public and is family friendly.

For more information, please visit us on the web at Calvary First or contact us at 863-229-8065.

Friday, December 5, 2008

Glitter, Glisten, & Snow

GLITTER, GLISTEN & SNOW

The annual Glitter, Glisten & Snow event to be held Friday, December 5th from 5-9 PM at the new Parks Complex at 305 South 6th Street, behind Jenkins Academy. This fun filled event appeals to all ages and includes entertainment throughout the evening from local schools and clubs. Craft vendors, exhibitors and food concessions will fill the area. There will be FREE roasted chestnuts, hot cider, home baked cookies and hot chocolate for everyone who attends.

The area will be transformed into a winter wonderland with 10 tons of snow for the children to play in, compliments of Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center. To complete the evening, Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive on a fire truck to pose for pictures with the kids.

During the Glitter Glisten & Snow event, we will line the entrance area with luminary candles in honor or memory of your loved ones. Your donation of $5.00 per candle or 3 for $10.00 will place a luminary along the pathway. Please contact Barbara at 421-3700 by Wednesday, December 3rd to place an order .

This event is brought to you by the Haines City Parks and Recreation Department in cooperation with the Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center, Tunno Groves and Hugh & Lois McGlashon.

For more information or to download a flyer from the City’s website: http://ci.haines-city.fl.us Follow this path: For Residents - Special Events – Glitter, Glisten & Snow. You may also contact Barbara at the Haines City Parks and Recreation Department, 555 Ledwith Avenue, Haines City FL 33844, phone: 421-3700 or e-mail bpeckhcrecdept@tampabay.rr.com

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Art, Zumba & More from the Parks Dept

From: City of Haines City Parks and Recreation Department

The Haines City Parks and Recreation Department is currently accepting registrations for the Beginner Art Class to be held at the Bethune Neighborhood Center . The class will meet on Tuesdays from 9:00-11:00am or Thursdays from 2:00-4:00pm, starting Tuesday, September 23, 2008. The fee is $90.00 for six weeks. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please contact the Bethune Neighborhood Center at 863-421-3720.

TheHaines City and Parks Recreation Department is currenly offering Zumba a fun and energetic way to tone that waist, burn those calories, and relieve some stress. The classes will be held at the Bethune Neighborhood Center . The class will meet on Monday and Wednesday from 5:30-6:30pm/ Tuesday and Thursday from 5:00pm-6:00pm . It begins November 17, 2008. First week is FREE. First 10 adults and 10 kids will be free for the month of December as a Christmas Gift. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please contact the Bethune Nighborhood Center at 863-421-3720.

The Haines City Parks and Recreation Department is offering a new exercise class. Darrin Fielder will teach Darrin’s Total Body Workout. This class is a combination of aerobics, cardio, and weight lifting. The class will meet on Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9:00-10:00am or 6:00-7:00pm at the Oakland Gym. The fee is $10.00 per session and is open to anyone ages 15 and up. For more information, please contact the Bethune Neighborhood Center at 863-421-3720 or the Oakland Gym at 863-421-3525.

The Haines City Parks and Recreation Department is currently looking for instructors to teach classes at the Community Center or the Bethune Neighborhood Center . All instructors must pass a background check. Anyone who is interested should contact the Haines City Community Center at 863-421-3700 or the Bethune Neighborhood Center at 863-421-3720.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Main Street Membership Meeting

Hello Merchants and Mainstreet members and prospective members,

There will be a membership meeting on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. at the EDC office.

Address for the EDC office: 611 Jones Avenue, East, Suite 4, Haines City, FL 33844.

If you are interested in becoming a member of Merchants and Mainstreet Association please attend the meeting. Please bring along any other prospects too.

If you have any questions please call me at 863-422-2525.

Thanks so much and see you soon!

Allison DeVito

If you would like to receive email updates about downtown events and happenings send an email to healthchichouse@mac.com.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Job Opening- Haines City Main Street Director

Main Street Director, Haines City, Florida

Nature of Work
The Main Street Director is responsible for coordinating all aspects of the Main Street Program to assist with downtown revitalization and business development efforts in Haines City's Main Street District. The director is familiar with and utilizes the National Main Street Four Point Approach: Organization, Design, Promotions, and Economic Restructuring as the program’s fundamental organizational framework.
Critical elements of the director’s initial activities include economic redevelopment of historic downtown, securing sponsors and increasing memberships.

The full-time position requires a self-motivated, take charge manager, with multidimensional skills and experience. Essential elements of this position include positive people skills and the personality to build strong relationships with businesses, community groups, churches, residents and local government, as well as the ability to successfully fundraise through partnership building, grant writing, and securing sponsor donations.

The director reports to and works directly with the Main Street Board of Directors, coordinating select projects, special events, fundraising initiatives, volunteer management activities and any other responsibilities deemed appropriate. The director will be responsible to keep accurate accounting of Main Street finances, including payable and receivable accounts, grant income and expense, and special fundraising activities. Essential elements of this position include establishing good rapport, communications and partnerships with other organizations, committees, elected officials, governmental agencies and the media.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices involving development and revitalization of the economic and business community; knowledge of grant programs, including grant management principles and techniques to attain desired economical and efficient results; ability to exercise sound professional judgment; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with volunteers, the business community and the general public; ability to communicate effectively with the public at all levels; ability to perform public relation duties in a manner conducive to maintaining and enhancing the image and reputation of the Main Street program and the City of Haines City.

Training and Experience
Experience managing a Main Street Program strongly desired but not required.
Graduate of a four-year college or university or a combination of experience and education in business/community development/historic preservation. Experience in marketing, economic development and not-for-profit organizations is highly desired. Must have excellent verbal, organizational and computer skills, including use of Quickbooks, Microsoft Office Word, Publisher, Excel, Access and Outlook.

For more information, email Allison, at allison@hainescityedc.com.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Haines City Health Walk

The Haines City Family Health Walk will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2008.

Join dozens of others in this 5 mile police escorted walk that will wind through the new 8 acre Park, with checkpoints along the way offering drinks and assistance. Walker registration will begin at 7:00 AM and the free family health walk will step off at 7:30 from Cook Field located at 915 Avenue E.

Following the walk, from 9 AM until noon, many health care agencies will be on hand to offer free health screenings and information in the Bethune Neighbor Center .

Participating agencies include; American Hearing Clinic, Central Florida Foot & Ankle Center, Day Surgery Center, Hope Hospice, Cypress Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Arthritis Foundation, Associates in Dermatology, Bloodnet, Kaden Communications, American Red Cross, Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center, Darrin’s Total Body Workout, WSIR 1490 AM Radio, Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center Auxiliary, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Alzheimer’s Association and others.

For more information, please log onto the Haines City ’s website: ci.haines-city.fl.us or contact Dan at 421-3720 or Barbara at 421-3700. Sponsored by the Haines City Parks & Recreation Department.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Haines City Farmer's Market Moves to Court Street

As streetscaping continues for Historic Downtown Main Street various events have been shuffled. The Haines City Farmer's Market that is normally held at Railroad Park has temporarily been moved to Court Street. Court Street is the short street that connects 5th and 6th. The Health Chic House is at one end and Cafe Cabaret is at the other.

This year-round market is open on Wednesday's from 8am-2pm. You can get produce, freshly baked breads, plants, and other items. The market is also a great place to meet your neighbors, learning cooking tips from the vendors, and share in lively conversation.

While you are downtown stop at one of the restaurants for lunch, get a haircut, or do some shopping. Your downtown businesses appreciate your support and patronage during our renovations.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Earth Day Haines City Event List

Earth Day Celebration
Your Guide to a Fun & Eco-Friendly Festival!

April, 20th 10-5
Historic Downtown Haines City
863-419-8584

Workshops held at either The Health Chic House (THCH) or South By Southwest (SBS)

Early risers stop at Zook’s or Doughmonde for coffee & breakfast.
9:55 a.m. - Earth Day Kick-off & Dedication by Mayor Philip Hinkle (THCH Front Porch)

Workshops
10:00 a.m. Using Rain Barrels – Free, Rain Barrels available for $20 each (THCH Outside)
10:30 a.m. Beginner’s Guide to Creating an Herb Garden – Free (SBS, Back Porch)
11:00 a.m. Introduction to Composting – Free, Supplies available for sale (THCH Outside)
Noon All About Organic Gardening – Free (THCH Outside)
1:00 p.m Intro to Using Herbs for Health – $20 (THCH Inside)
2:00 p.m. Florida-friendly Landscaping – Right Plant, Right Place, Free (THCH Outside)
2:30 p.m. Beneficial Bugs for Hire – Free (SBS, Back Porch)
3:00 p.m. Using Herbs: Plant to Oil to Salve – Free (THCH Outside)

Fun Things to Do
• Kiddie Train, Face Painting, Bath Salt Art, Coloring, Wrist Band Making (Court Street)
• Pony Rides, Bounce House, Coloring (Zook’s Café Intersection)
• Local School Performances – FFA Ag Team- 10:05am, Dance Team- 2pm
• High Noon Human Checker Game Competition- Haines City Fire vs. Police (Court)
• Music by DJ Ken Henson from Pamalicious 12 – 5 p.m., Catherine Price, 2 – 4pm (Court)
• Relaxing Chair Massage & Detox Foot Baths (THCH)

Be Eco-Conscious
• Enter to Win A Cruise or Tons of Other Prizes – Take Your Reduce Your Use Pledge (THCH)
• Recycle Your Old Electronics & Computers – The WAY Center (Under Parking Garage)
• Please Recycle Your Glass & Plastic Cups and Bottles (containers at THCH & Zook’s)

Exhibits, Vendors & Free Goodies
• Information & Kids Stamp Books- Main Street Organization
• Toilet Facilities Located next to Court Street
• Free Bio-bags & Trees- Cromer Printing
• Enter to Win a Rain Barrel and Micro Irrigation – Green Earth Expo
• Audition to be a guest co-host on a Radio Show – The Girls Gone Green
• Spinal Screenings & Kids Bean Bag Toss – 4 Corners Chiropractic
• Water Conservation Materials – Water Conservation Board
• Free Seeds & Trees – Dolphin Printing
• Coloring Station – Pre-Paid Legal
• Voter Registration
• Craft Vendors- Ozzie’s Wood Burning, Linda Kay Creations
• Cool off & Watch a Water Conservation Film 11:15am & 2:15pm (THCH)
• Plants for Sale- Polk Training Center

Shopping
• By Design – Home Décor, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Epic – Tattoo Shop, 4 – 8 p.m.
• Shoppes At Van Buren – 7 stores, upstairs, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Tuesday's Child - Children, Copperfield's Christmas, Darla & Cooper-Pets, Waltzing Matilda's-Bags
Seventh Avenue - Gift Baskets, Abigail's Cottage-Shabby Chic, The Grape & Olive-Kitchen
• South By Southwest – Western, Southwestern, & Native American home décor, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• The Health Chic House – Supplements, Shoes & Clothing, Green Cleaning, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Main Street Hosts Earth Day Celebration

The Haines City Main Street Organization is pleased to host the 1st Annual Earth Day Celebration in Historic Downtown Haines City on Sunday, April 20th. Events & Exhibits are 10am-5pm.

Zooks Cafe & La Fiesta Mexicana will stay open later with evening entertainment.

The event will include workshops, music, kids activities, local artists and assorted exhibits. For more information call 863-419-8584 or visit Earth Day Florida.

9:55am- Earth Day Kick-off & Dedication by Mayor Philip Hinkle

Workshops Include:

10:00am- Using Rain Barrels- Free, Rain Barrels available for $20 each
10:30am- Beginner’s Guide to Creating an Herb Garden- Free
11:00am- Introduction to Composting- Free, Supplies available for sale
12:00pm- All About Organic Gardening, Free
1:00pm- Intro to Using Herbs for Health, $20
2:00pm- Florida-friendly Landscaping- Right Plant, Right Place, Free
2:30pm- Beneficial Bugs for Hire, Free (SBS, Back Porch)
3:00pm- Using Herbs: Plant to Oil to Salve, Free

The Main Street Information booth will open at 10am on Court Street, across from The Health Chic House. Check the blog daily for more updates.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Railroad Park Streetscape Project Update

Railroad Park Renovation/Streetscape Project Update -

The City of Haines City and Haines City Main Street is anticipating a revised projected start date of May 1, 2008. As the project gets underway, there will be periodic updates for this project, which will give downtown business and property owners an opportunity to ask questions and find out more about this major revitalization project.

For more information, contact Ann Freling, Main Street Coordinator, at 863-421-9950.

Vendor Needed for Haines City Cruise-In

The Haines City Parks and Recreation Department is accepting applications for food concessions and merchants selling other wares for the monthly Cruise-In held the second Saturday of each month.

The next event will be on Saturday, April 12th from 5-9 PM in historic downtown Haines City, The Cruise-In will showcase vehicles from all makes, models and years. Along with vehicles, DJ Butch Johnston will be playing your favorites from the 50’s and 60’s.

The fee for a booth space is $35.00. To obtain more information and a vendor application, please log on to the Haines City’s website: http://ci.haines-city.fl.us or call the Haines City Parks & Recreation Department at 863-421-3700.

Mayor's Prayer Breakfast

On Thursday, May 1st the City of Haines City will host its annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast in conjunction with the National Day of Prayer.

The event this year will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 21 North 2nd Street in Haines City. Local Pastors and musicians will be on the program which will begin at 7:30 AM.

Tickets, which include breakfast are $10.00 and may be purchased at the Community Center, 219 South 5th Street, at City Hall, 502 E. Hinson Avenue or by calling 421-3700.

Monday, March 10, 2008

"Meet & Greet" for downtown Streetscape Project

Haines City Main Street Hosts Streetscape Kick-off

The Haines City Main Street Organization is pleased to announce that it will host a “Meet and Greet” to kick-off the next phase of the downtown streetscape project. The event will be held at 143 Sixth Street on Monday, March 17th from 9am-10am. The general contractor, Wharton-Smith, will show a detailed map and give a time line for the four different phases of the project.

Everyone is encouraged to participate as this will be an opportunity to ask questions and find out what you can do to continue business as usual during this major revitalization project. Refreshments will be served.

For more information, contact Ann Freling, Main Street Coordinator, at 863-421-9950. You may also receive continuous updates online at www.hainescitymainstreet.blogspot.com.

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Haines City to Benefit from Southwest Florida Water Management Grants

Four Polk County projects that are expected to reach about 6,000 residents were awarded Community Education Grants from the Southwest Florida Water Management District; two of these directly affect Haines City.

The goal of the Community Education Grant Program is to engage adults in water-related issues pertaining to conservation, protection and preservation. Funded by the district's Basin Boards, the program is intended to motivate communities to get involved in watershed protection through various activities and educational formats.

The first project is the "Water and Me" workshop that will take place at the Heritage Days Festival. Participants will learn how to conserve water in the landscape, use and maintain their irrigation system and reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides.

This project will show Haines City-area residents how to conserve water inside and outside the home. Participants who complete a survey will receive conservation kits that include water conservation products and information. Grant funds will be used to purchase faucet aerators, shower timers, drip counters, hot water gauges and water hose nozzles for participants.The program's goal is to encourage residents to change water-wasting behaviors.

The second project is The Health Chic Earth Day event, which will feature Florida-friendly landscaping and the district's drought messaging. This event is Sunday, April 20th in historic downtown Haines City. Workshops will include Rain Barrels, Composting, Organic Gardening, and Florida Native Plants.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District's 2009 Community Education Grant Program will begin its application process in June 2008.

For details, please call the district's communications department at 1-800-423-1475 or 352-796-7211, ext. 4757. For the full story check out Polk Online

Easter Egg Hunt

The City of Haines City will host an Easter Egg Hunt on March 22nd at 10:00 AM. This event will be held at Larry Parrish Complex, 2401 Johnson Avenue and all children are invited to join in the fun!!

Friday, February 22, 2008

Bridal Show Cancelled

Due to lack of interest, the Haines City Main Street Bridal Show scheduled for March 2nd has been cancelled.

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Hazardous Waste Clean-Up Day

Dispose of your household hazardous waste and electronics, SAFELY, and FREE of CHARGE.

March 22nd, 2008
Haines City Public Works Complex
300 North 5th Street
Haines City

Materials that will be collected include batteries, paint, polishes, automotive products, solvents, insecticides, tires, and electronics. No Business waste...Residential only! For more information, call 863-421-3777.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Crafters Needed for Heritage Days

The City of Haines City is accepting applications for artists and crafters to participate in the 22nd annual Heritage Days Event to be held from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on March 8 th at Lake Eva Park on South 5 th Street in Haines City .

The event this year will include a Quilt Show in the Civic Center , displays and demonstrations. Local and national entertainment will take the stage throughout the day and the City will also hold an auction of surplus items at the Community Center. More than 50 vendor booth spaces will be available for the event at a cost of $50.00 for a 10’ x 10’ space and are on a first come first serve basis.

Vendors need to supply their own setup and be present for the entire show. No flea market merchandise will be accepted. The deadline for renting spaces is Friday, February 29 th. For more information or to obtain an application, log on to the City’s website at http://ci.haines-city.fl.us Follow this path to the event you are interested in: City Departments - Parks & Recreation - Special Events- Heritage Days or call the Haines City Parks & Recreation Department at 863-421-3700.

Taste of Haines City

It’s that time again. The Haines City Parks & Recreation Department in conjunction with Pepsi and Cromer International Press present the “Taste of Haines City”. This event allows ticket holders to experience the excellent services and food that the participating restaurants provide, as well as spend an evening with friends enjoying great entertainment, with complimentary beer, wine and soft drinks.

The Taste of Haines City will be held on Thursday, February 28th from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Haines City Community Center, 219 South 5th Street. Tickets for this annual event are $25.00 per person with children under 5 free of charge.

Participating restaurants include: All Star Grill, Texas Cattle Company, Red Lobster, Carrabbas, Longhorn Steak House, Café Doughmonde, Beef O’Bradys, Outback Steak House, Salt Water Grill, La Fiesta Mexicana, Chili’s Restaurant, Sonny’s Bar-B-Q, Providence Golf Club and catering by Best Western Admirals Inn.

Tickets are now available and may be purchased in advance at the Community Center . All proceeds benefit the Independence Day Celebration, “Thunder on the Ridge.” Please call 421-3700 for additional information.

If you would like to know about other special events, you may log on to the City’s web site at http://ci.haines-city.fl.us

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Bridal Show

"An Elegant Affair" Bridal Show

Located in Historic Downtown Haines City

Railroad Park on Sunday, February 10 th
10 am - 2:30 pm - Door Prizes & Tastings

Hosted By Wedding Elegance Boutique and Haines City Main Street
Please Contact Cassanna Dwight at 863-419-8515, for Exhibit Space or more details!

Friday, January 4, 2008

Blue Grass Festival

Event: Blue Grass Festival
Location: Lake Eva Park
Date: January 11-13 th
Time: Friday Evening “Jam Session”
Saturday 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Sunday 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Activities :
Local and national Blue Grass acts perform throughout the week end. Included in the line up: Lonesome River Band, The Lewis Family, Roger Bass, Joey Foley & the Midnight Clogging Express, and many more!

Directions to Lake Eva Park in Haines City: US 27 (South from I-4 or North from 60) exit Hwy 17/92 East to South 5 th Street. Turn right and follow the signs.

Food & Merchandise Concessions

RV Parking available (rough camping only)

Sponsored By: City of Haines City, Parks & Recreation Department

For Additional Information log onto Haines City Special Events or contact the Haines City Parks and Recreation Department at 863-421-3700.