MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS & Newsletters
Our Chamber Members have a lot of exciting news to share! Check out the latest Press Releases & announcements below:
- January 7, 2026: HCA Florida Healthcare to open new freestanding emergency department in Polk County
- January 6, 2026: Polk State President Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti recertified as Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE)
- November 5, 2025: Watson Clinic Foundation - City of Lakeland Issues Proclamation Recognizing Arts and Health Week
Check out the latest newsletters from our Members:
January 2026 newsletter from Visit Central Florida CATS: Click HERE to read the newsletter.
December 2025 newsletter from ELC Polk: Click HERE to read the newsletter.
December 2025 Polk State College Foundation Legacy Report. Click HERE to read the report.
SBDC special holiday newsletter: Click HERE to read the newsletter.
November 2025 newsletter from Rothman Orthopaedics: Click HERE to read the newsletter.
November 2025 SouthState Bank Newsletter: Click HERE to read the newsletter.
November 2025 Polk State Foundation Legacy Report: Click HERE to read the report.
November 2025 News around BayCare: Click HERE to read the newsletter
November 2025 newsletter from Florida Foundation for Correctional Excellence: Click HERE to read the newsletter.
November 2025 newsletter from the United Way: Click HERE to read the newsletter.
Sign up for the latest newsletter from Andrey Kolchurin, KW Realty at the Lakes. Subscribe here: https://realty-edge.kit.com/d577f41eb5 or scan the QR Code below:
Have a newsletter you would like us to share? Please email a pdf of your newsletter to: info@northeastpolkchamber.com
COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT
Medical • Professional • Office Use
Haines City Office Plaza – Unit 218
218 S Dixie Drive, Haines City, FL 33844
Directly in front of Winn-Dixie Plaza & Southern Dunes Golf Course
This 900 square foot second-floor office suite is ideally suited for medical, professional, or
service-oriented users. The property is located on Highway 27 within a well-established two-story office
plaza offering strong visibility, convenient access, and a professional tenant mix.
• Approx. 900 SF • Second-floor professional unit
• Elevator access • Excellent visibility
• Flexible lease terms • Strong surrounding demographics
For Leasing Information:
Garrett Kenny
Email: garrett@feltrim.com
Haines City Parks & Recreation is excited to present the 18th annual Ribs on the Ridge bbq competition - officially sanctioned by KCBS.
Friday, February 20, 2026 | 5:00 - 9:00 PM
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sanctioned through the Kansas City BBQ Society, Ribs on the Ridge will bring master and backyard teams from across Florida and the southeast to compete for cash prizes, trophies, and bragging rights to the best BBQ in town. This year’s event will be a part of the 3rd annual Florida Triple Crown of BBQ.
Activities include:
* Live music Friday & Saturday
* Kids Zone with inflatable activities and face painting all day Saturday
* BBQ contest awards at 4:00 PM Saturday
Vendor and sponsor opportunities available. Email Taegan, Special Events Coordinator, at taegan.welborn@hainescity.com
New Duke Energy programs offer Florida customers more choices related to electric vehicles
- Various incentives offered for residential and business customers through the Charger Prep Credit, Off-Peak Charging Credit and Fleet Advisory programs
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Today, Duke Energy Florida announced the launch of three new programs – the Charger Prep Credit, Off-Peak Charging Credit and Fleet Advisory programs – to offer both residential and business customers more choices related to electric vehicles (EVs).
Click HERE for the Press Release and more info!
Check out this exciting news from Chamber Member HCA Florida Poinciana Hospital!
"Now Open!!! We’re excited to announce that HCA Florida Auburndale Emergency, a part of HCA Florida Poinciana Hospital, is now open!
Our new freestanding emergency department brings the same exceptional, 24/7 emergency care you trust from our main hospital now conveniently located in the Polk community.
2885 Havendale NW Blvd, Winter Haven, FL 33881
As part of HCA Florida Healthcare, the largest network of care in Florida, we’re proud to provide expert, compassionate emergency care when you need it most."
ELC Polk is now accepting applications for VPK!
VPK is a FREE Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program that enhances children’s learning and prepares them for elementary school. VPK providers near you give children the opportunity of engaging in an early learning education. Here is how to apply for VPK in Polk County.
Important Documentation:
- Proof of Florida Residence
- Proof of your child’s age
- If you are enrolling your child in VPK Specialized Instructional Services (VPK SIS), include an individual educational plan (IEP) from your local school district.
Steps:
- Click the Family Portal button on our website
- Register to create your account
- Fill out an application
What Happens Next:
Once you submit your VPK application, ELC Polk will review the application and email you additional instructions. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Eligibility to take to any VPK provider.
Need Help?
Contact the Early Learning Coalition of Polk County at 863-577-2450