This year's winners represent the area's finest restaurants, services, businesses, entertainment venues and more. While some winners were old favorites, several categories saw brand new winners.

Check out each category to see what or who were named the Peoples Choice.

Food and dining

Barbecue

Famous for meat so juicy it falls off the bone, Sonny's restaurant has won the People's Choice Award for best barbecue three years in a row. The restaurant chain has locations in Winter Haven, Bartow and Haines City.

"It's one-of-a-kind barbecue," said Chris Adcock, assistant manager at the 4600 Recker Highway location in Winter Haven. "We cook the meat in a special basting sauce."

Adcock said the restaurant is known for its friendly staff and fast service.

Peebles Barbecue was the runner-up. Peebles is at 503 Old Dixie Highway in Auburndale.

Bakery

From decadent desserts to artisan breads, voters chose Publix Bakery as the best place to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Cakes come custom decorated, made by decorators who use the freshest ingredients.

"You're not going to find a flat cake with writing on it," said Shannon Patten, Publix spokeswoman.

Each winter season, local households accent their holiday dinners with dishes from Publix, and this year, the supermarket has new festive desserts to accent holiday tables.

"We have baked goods that are so delicious, people buy them for any occasion," Patten said.

The runner-up was Cafe Doughmonde at 900 Lily Ave., Suite 2, in Haines City.

Breakfast Place

When mom's breakfast table isn't within reach, Cypress Cafe, provides that same type of atmosphere. A longtime Winter Haven destination, the cafe offers a variety of homestyle breakfasts that are home-cooking favorites ranging from eggs to pancakes.

We serve a good product for a good price, said owner Jerry Pool.

Breakfast is served seven days a week, with later hours on the weekends, and despite the vast offerings of chain restaurant choices, this restaurant is a favorite.

Country Kitchen, located at the Holiday Inn in Winter Haven, came in second.

Buffet Salad Bar

Whistle Junction was voted the best place to eat a salad at a buffet restaurant.

Restaurant patrons can pick either romaine or iceberg lettuce and top their salad with traditional items like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and croutons, or with non-traditional fare like bean sprouts and snow peas.

"Customers like it because it gives them a chance to eat healthy, said manager David White.

The restaurant is at 2775 Lake Alfred Road in Winter Haven.

The runner-up was Canton Chinese Restaurant at 844 Sixth St., N.W., in Winter Haven.

Coffee Shop

When it comes to a favorite place for coffee and conversation, Richard's Fine Coffee is a Winter Haven household name. Customers also have the opportunity to visit the citys library, because the shop is in the library building. With wireless Internet access, couches, board games and outdoor seating, it isnt hard to figure out why its the People's Choice.

According to head barista Stefani Weed, customer service is a priority.

"The great thing about us is well make the coffee the way you want, not the way it says on the board," she said. "Customer service is number one, because if theyre not satisfied, why are we here?"

Uncle Wally's Sandwiches, at 1612 Dundee Road in Winter Haven was named runner-up.

Casual Dining

With an old-time soda fountain and a screened porch, the Gift Mill near Lake Hamilton was voted the best place for a casual dinner or lunch.

"We have a relaxed atmosphere," said manager Tom Matthews. "It's like a happy reunion every time our regular customers come in."

Restaurant patrons can enjoy novelties like soup in a bread bowl for lunch or homemade ice cream for an anytime snack. At dinnertime, restaurant patrons enjoy steaks, seafood or ribs.

The Gift Mill is at 2940 U.S. Highway 27.

Gary's Oyster Bar, located at 660 Lake Alfred Drive E. in Lake Alfred was second in the voting.

Fine Dining

With a warm, festive atmosphere and a variety of fresh, handmade Italian dishes cooked to order, it is no surprise that Carrabbas Italian Grill in Winter Haven was chosen for the best fine dining restaurant in the People's Choice Awards.

"This is a fantastic honor," said D.J. Hood, a managing partner. "I think we do a good job serving Winter Haven, and were glad to have won."

Carrabbas, located at 700 Third Street, S.W.,has been selected the People's Choice for best Italian restaurant in the past. Hood was surprised to receive fine dining honor, but he said with the gourmet menu, he can see why customers would consider Carrabbas a fine place to dine.

Olive Garden, with its similar Italian ambiance, was the second-place pick for best fine dining.

Ethnic Restaurant

Bienvenido a Rancho Chico!

People's Choice voters have picked a new Winter Haven business, Rancho Chico, as the best place to go for ethnic food.

Maria Gutierrez, manager of "el restaurante," was pleasantly surprised to hear about the honor, especially since the restaurant has only been open a few months.

"I think it's the food and the service," she said. "We have all kinds of Mexican meals and the people really like it."

Rancho Chico is at 313 Cypress Gardens Blvd. in Winter Haven. The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Coming in second was Osaka Japanese Steak House at 620 Third St., S.W., in Winter Haven.

Fast Food

McDonald's has long held the title nationally as the best fast food restaurant, and it defends its title once again as the People's Choice for 2006.

Famous for its long-time classic, the Big Mac, McDonald's also has a new line of Premium Chicken sandwiches and Premium Chicken Strips to go along with the new all-white meat chicken nuggets. Hamburger favorites include the Quarter Pounder with cheese, Double Quarter Pounder with cheese, Big and Tasty, and the fish sandwich. Among the breakfast favorites are the McMuffins and the McGriddles.

McDonald's has many locations in Winter Haven, Auburndale, Dundee, Haines City, Lake Wales, Lakeland and Bartow.

The runner-up for best fast food was Wendys, with locations throughout east Polk County.

French Fries

To go along with its best fast food restaurant award, McDonald's earned the award for best French fries.

Billed as "America's Favorite French Fries" by McDonald's, these fries are golden, long, thin, perfectly salted fries that are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside with great potato taste.

Checkers received runner-up honors for best fries.

Fried Chicken

The Colonel would be honored. His world-renowned recipe has garnered the "Best Chicken" award from News Chief readers. Owned by Yum! Brands, KFC serves approximately 8 million customers worldwide everyday.

At the Cypress Gardens Boulevard store, the original recipe is the most popular menu item, according to manager Daisy Chavez.

"Everybody loves this chicken, there's nothing else like it," she said.

Polk County KFC stores are located in Winter Haven, Auburndale, Haines City, Lakeland, Bartow, and Lake Wales.

Readers' second place choice for chicken is Church's, located at 1050 Sixth Street, N.W., in Winter Haven.

Hamburger

"Andy's is the place to go" is the motto of the Winter Haven landmark.

It will come as no surprise to devotees of Andy's Drive-In Restaurant that readers of the News Chief selected the restaurant as the place to get the best hamburger.

Owner Popi Nouaros said Andy's has been going strong for 53 years at 703 Third St.

"We are known throughout Florida for our burgers and our ice cream," she said.

Customers may dine in or take out all items on the lunch and dinner menu, including the award-winning burgers.

Second place in fast food, Wendys is also second place in hamburgers in East Polk County.

Health, Vegetarian Food

Crispers garden-fresh fares of gourmet salads, delicious sandwiches and hearty soups have won them the prize of best health and vegetarian food. Crispers is so popular, some flock to feast on the healthy nourishment every day; one such patron is Brad Dowton of Winter Haven.

"There are days I can't even find a table, it's so packed," he said.

Ricky Bagwell, a manager of the Winter Haven eatery for five years, said it's the fresh salads and such that keep people coming back day after day.

"It's very good," Bagwell said.

Subways "Eat Fresh" campaign helped the chain earn runner-up honors.

Ice Cream or Yogurt

The best ice cream in town may not be ice cream at all. Instead, this year's winner is frozen custard.

K.C's Big Dipper offers frozen custard, made fresh daily in a variety of flavors, such as black raspberry, chocolate almond, butter pecan and black forest, to name a few.

"I'm so thrilled to have been chosen," said owner, Kristy Carlini. She explained that frozen custard, while popular up north, is a new experience for some locals. "It's more dense and creamer than regular ice-cream," she said.

K.C's Big Dipper, located at 3080 Cypress Gardens Road, has been open for two and half years. Carlini, along with her husband and daughter, run the store seven days a week.

For four-legged custard lovers, K.C.'s holds "Dogs Night Out" every third Monday. Customers receive a free doggie custard with purchase of a people cone.

Runner-up is Dairy Queen, with two locations in Winter Haven.

Lakeside Dining

Whether a diner arrives by car, boat or seaplane, Harbor Side Restaurant at 2435 Seventh St., S.W., Winter Haven, serves up a great meal with a view of Lake Shipp.

For a number of years, Harbor Side has been the choice for best lakeside dining establishment, and 2006 is no exception.

Seafood is the restaurant's specialty, with oysters and fried grouper sandwiches among the favorites.

From Monday through Friday, Harbor Side offers a popular soup and half-sandwich lunch special. Diners have a choice of two soups (all you can eat) and at least three sandwiches.

Live entertainment on the outside deck is offered on Sunday nights at Harbor Side, and patrons flock to the site.

Boat slips are available at Harbor Side, and its not unusual to see boats or a seaplane outside the restaurant.

Old Man Frank's restaurant, located at 1005 S. Lake Howard Drive, received second place honors.

Lunch

When it comes to a good meal for a good price, News Chief readers have found they cant go wrong with Cypress Cafe on Cypress Gardens Road.

For just $6.25, customers are treated with a lunch plate, plus the cafes soup and salad bar. Lunch plates vary depending on the cafe's average of six to eight daily specials.

"Every day we've got different specials," owner Jerry Pool said.

Pool said customer favorites are country fried steak and fried chicken.

Pizza Hut, with several locations in Polk County, was the runner-up for best lunch.

Lunch Under $5

The best bargain for your buck award goes to Taco Bell.

This restaurant provides Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos and other inventions like the Crunch Wrap Supreme, Gorditas and Cinnamon Twists.

New this year is the Big Bell Value menu, with several items that weigh in at a half pound.

Sandwich Shop

Readers chose Firehouse Subs as the place they like best to extinguish their hunger with one of the shop's numerous subs, salads or chilli. The 12-year-old franchise won this years best sandwich shop category.

The franchise, based in Jacksonville, was the brainchild of firefighting brothers Robin and Chris Sornsen in 1994 and has expanded to 240 locations throughout the southeast. The Winter Haven location is at 1107 First St., S.W., and the Auburndale location is at 2016 U.S. Highway 92 W.

The runner-up in the category is Boston Market, located at 150 Cypress Gardens Blvd. in Winter Haven.

Seafood Restaurant

For 28 years, Harry's Old Place, off Cypress Gardens Road, has been serving the seafood lovers of Polk - and now the hideaway on Lake Ned is being honored for all its hard work as best seafood place.

Part-owner Ginny Johnson said Harry's Old Place provides a large selection of in-season, fresh fish. Priding themselves on simply what tastes good, this eatery is a neighborhood restaurant, where customers drop by for casual dinners, or bring family and friends for formal occasions. Adding to Harrys charm is its staff.

"We have good employees and good customers. We are very blessed," Johnson said. "We just want to keep doing what we do best. We enjoy this."

Red Lobster, located on Cypress Gardens Boulevard in Winter Haven, was runner-up.

Pizza

Still celebrating its June grand opening, Bellacino's Pizza & Grinders, located in Spring Lake Square on the intersection of Havendale Blvd. and U.S. Highway 17, now has even more to celebrate: best pizza in Polk. Beating out stiff competition, manager-owner Dave Peters said its the quality of Bellacinos that wins people over.

"Also, its a good pizza at a decent price," he said. "We get a lot of repeat business."

Peters said that of the 23 "grinders" on the menu, the Chicago and steak grinders seem to be favorites among customers. A grinder is Bellacino's signature hot sandwich, served on freshly baked bread made from scratch daily and amply filled with generous amounts of meats and cheeses.

Pizza Connection in Auburndale earned runner-up honors.

Sports Bar

Beef OBrady's Family Sports Pub, is first a family atmosphere restaurant first, and a sports pub second, making it a News Chief reader favorite for best sports bar.

Offering top quality food, Beef O'Brady's is known as the place to go before, during and after a top sporting event. Beef O'Brady's also has several television for viewing favorite games.

Dominic Floridnio, manager of the Cypress Gardens Boulevard restaurant said Beef's is very community-minded.

"Beef O'Brady's does a lot for the schools and the community and always thinks about customer service first," he said.

Along with the Winter Haven location, Beef O'Brady's also has locations in Auburndale, Bartow and Lake Wales.

Receiving second place honors is Salt Water Grill, located at 5654 Cypress Gardens Rd., in Winter Haven.

Steak Restaurant

Jimmy T's Roadhouse, located on Sixth Street, S.E. was named the best steak restaurant in town, according to this years People's Choice voters.

"We're very pleased with that," said manager Jason Terovlas. "We've only been in business for a year."

One of the big differences in Jimmy T's is that the restaurant cuts its own steaks, Terovlas said.

"We owe it to the people," he said. "We're honored that word has gotten around about us."

Outback Steak House, on Cypress Gardens Boulevard, has no rules, and is just right for second place steak restaurant.

Sunday Brunch

The popular, highly-attended Lake Wales Country Club's Sunday Brunch was named best Sunday brunch by News Chief readers.

Lynne Tucker, executive assistant at the Lake Wales Country Club, said the brunch features a large variety of food. "We're pleased to finally be recognized for our famous Sunday Brunch," Tucker said.

A piano player performs each Sunday as guests dine.

The Lake Wales Country Club is at 2925 State Road 60, E.

Coming in at second place is Lake Region Yacht and Country Club at 4200 Country Club Road.

Wings

Hurricane Grill and Wings has been named the best place to get wings by the News Chief readers.

The family-oriented grill, which opened in July, and is located at 6370 Cypress Gardens Blvd., in Winter Haven, is a franchise of the Fort Pierce-based company. Wings come in five categories, ranging from plain - which you should order "If you cant take the heat" - to ridiculously hot for the "fireeaters" that venture into the restaurant.

Beef O'Brady's restaurant came in second place.

Best Beer

Budweiser is the king of beers, according to People's Choice voters. Lakeland-based Bernie Little Distributors is the local distributor of Budweiser products.

Coors products placed second in the voting.

Retail businesses Liquor Store

The vote for the best liquor store in the area went to ABC Fine Wines and Spirits Chain, with locations in Winter Haven, Haines City and Lake Wales.

Kenny Clower, store manager at the Winter Haven location, said ABC customers get the best service from smiling, helpful employees.

"The store is always clean looking, bright and easy to shop," Clower said.

The runner-up in this category was XYZ Liquor, with one location in Winter Haven and at least four in Lakeland.

Card and Gift Shop

Looking for a mutual birthday card? You know, the kind of card you send to a friend or relative when they share the same birthday as yourself?

Or what about a card for triplets? Or for a 60th anniversary?

Well, Amy's Two For A Dollar Card Shoppe is the place for you. Regaining its title from 2002, the shop was rated the best card and gift shop by People's Choice voters.

"We carry every card known to mankind," shop owner Amy Lanpher said. "If youre looking for something unusual, we're going to have it."

With every card in the shop priced at 50 cents. Lanpher said people travel from near and far to take advantage of the deals and the store's large variety of party and gifts items.

Amy's Two For A Dollar Card Shoppe is at 1000 Orchid Springs Drive in Winter Haven.

Coming in second was Longs Hallmark Shop at 700 First St. S. in Winter Haven.

Meat Market

Family is the name of the game at Mac's Meats, which won this year's People's Choice Award for best meat market.

"We're thankful," said Bonnie Thomas, daughter of Audrey Mac, one of the shop's owners.

Thomas, one of six children to the mother and father shop owners, said this is the fifth time the shop has been honored with the award. She said the business will celebrate its 22nd anniversary in January.

Macs Meats is at 1277 First St. S. in Winter Haven.

The runner-up is Green's Market Meat and Produce at 3448 Ave. G, N.W., in Winter Haven.

Supermarket

Whether youre looking for a bouquet of flowers or certified Angus beef, Publix Supermarket is the place to go, according to People's Choice voters.

"We're so proud we've been recognized by our customers," Publix spokeswoman Shannon Patten said. "We offer superior service."

Patten said Publix customers like the wide aisles and clean stores, adding that shopping at Publix is a safe, enjoyable experience.

"We never compromise our standards," Patten said.

Publix has four stores in the Winter Haven-Auburndale area and several others throughout Polk County.

Winn-Dixie was the runner-up supermarket.

Antique Shop

With 25 vendors and a variety of merchandise available, Southern Comfort Antiques was chosen by People's Choice voters as the best antique shop.

"This is the fifth year we have won," said John Seibel, who owns Southern Comfort with his wife, Bette. "We're glad we continue to be chosen."

Seibel said Southern Comfort, which is located in Dundee at 29119 U.S. Highway 27, won for best antique shop for the first time five years ago when the store had been open for just two months.

"That year was really a surprise," he said. "We're thankful to our customers."

The Antique Connection, at 270 Central Ave. in Winter Haven, received second-place honors.

Trucks Dealer

If it's quick and friendly service you want when searching for a new truck, Chevrolet Center Inc. in Winter Haven may be the place to look. The Chevrolet Center won the People's Choice Award for best truck dealer.

"We appreciate the honor very much," said Larry Forsythe, the general sales manager at the dealership. "We're a big part of the Winter Haven family. We believe that fast and personal service matters the most. Thats what makes the difference for us."

Located at 101 Cypress Gardens Blvd., the Chevrolet Center also offers complete auto repair, auto painting, fender and body work, and it can take vehicles of any make or model.

Last year's award winner, Bartow Ford at 2800 U.S. Highway 98, was the runner-up this year.

Used Auto Dealer

If you're looking for a vehicle with only a few thousand miles on it, People's Choice voters say Winter Haven Toyota is the place to go. The company was voted the best used auto dealer for 2006.

"We offer certified used Toyotas that are quality and we treat our customers how we think they like to be treated," said William Comprosky, the dealerships sales manager. "This will let the people know that we treat people the right way."

Winter Haven Toyota was recognized as recently as 2003 with the Toyota Presidents Award for customer satisfaction.

Winter Haven Toyota is at the intersection of U.S. highways 17 and 92, between Winter Haven and Lake Alfred.

Jenkins Lincoln-Mercury, at 941 E. Main St., in Lakeland, was the runner-up.

New Auto Dealer

Searching for a new car can be both frustrating and aggravating. However, the employees at Hill Nissan Inc. in Winter Haven believe car shopping should be exciting and informative. That may be why Hill Nissan has been voted as the Peoples Choice for best new auto dealer for the second straight year.

"A lot of this has to do with Hills involvement in the community," said dealership General Manager Don Kiley. "Also, our customers receive their first oil change for free and we offer rental cars when their cars are in the shop. The most important thing, I think, is that Nissan just builds a heck of a product."

Hill Nissan is at 601 Cypress Gardens Blvd., S.E.

The runner-up dealership was Chevrolet Center Inc. at 101 Cypress Gardens Blvd.

Auto Body Shop

If you've just had an accident or need some kind of repair to your vehicle, A&E Auto Body can help. The company is this years Readers Choice Award winner for best auto body shop.

"We try to put the vehicle back the way it was before the accident," owner Michael Arrington said. "That's what were paid to do. We strive for satisfaction."

Dealing with insurance companies is never fun, but Arrington said at least people can get their cars and trucks back the way they were.

"Repairing the car is easy, it's dealing with the insurance companies that can be tough," he said.

A&E Auto Body Inc. is at 12002 U.S. Highway 17 N. in Eagle Lake.

B&W Auto Repair was the runner-up in this category. B&W is at 1803 Third St., S.W., in Winter Haven.

Automotive Tire Dealer

B&W Tire and Auto Center is doing a lot of things right. This year, the company received two Peoples Choice Awards, this one is for being the best tire dealer.

"We have many tire options and our prices are very competitive," B&W owner Bob Lanpher said. "Our staff is also very knowledgeable about many different brands of tires. We try to fit the tire to the consumer."

B&W is at 1803 Third St., S.W., in Winter Haven.

Goodyear was the tire dealer runner-up. Goodyear in Winter Haven is at 6975 Cypress Gardens Blvd., S.E.

Automotive Oil Change

B&W Tire and Auto Center's second Peoples Choice Award is for best automotive oil change.

"We have highly trained employees that can provide many services that most oil change places cant," owner Bob Lanpher said.

Lanpher said his shop offers many other services, including coolant flushes.

B&W is located at 1803 Third St., S.W., in Winter Haven.

Super-Lube on Havendale Boulevard is the runner-up in this category.

Barber Shop

Bill's Barber Pole, located on Cypress Gardens Boulevard in Winter Haven, is the best local barbershop, according to People's Choice voters.

"We have a nice, clean, old-fashioned barbershop atmosphere with fair prices and consistent quality," owner Bill Bartlemay said. "Our patrons are not just customers, but friends and neighbors. We pride ourselves in getting to know our clients and so we are better able to serve them. We love our customers and treat them like family."

Bartlemay said the company's professional barbers provide all of the regular barber services and regular haircuts.

"We want to thank Polk County for the vote of confidence," he said. "We also want to thank all of our loyal customers for their years of continued patronage."

Boat and Watercraft Dealer

Tired of getting in all that traffic around Polk County? (It was the 2005 People's Choice winner for biggest aggravation.)

Then get off the roads and get on the water.

If you want to buy a boat or personal watercraft, People's Choice voters recommend Marine Supply of Winter Haven above all other dealers.

Countless people take to the local lakes for receation, partying, fishing or just to get out of the house.

Marine Supply is at 717 Sixth St., S.W.

The runner-up was Hoppy's Marine Sport Center at 31499 U.S. Highway 27 in Haines City.

New Bookstore

Much more than your normal new retail bookstore, the cafe/bookstore approach by the popular Barnes and Noble Bookstore chain has earned the store the People's Choice best new bookstore award for 2006.

Barnes and Noble is on U.S. Highway 98 North, near the Lakeland Square mall. The atmosphere of the store, along with a wide selection of new books, is geared toward attracting customers.

Customers can come in to Barnes and Noble and browse the selection of books, and after finding what books they want, they can go into the cafe and have a bagel and coffee while they read their new selections.

The Lighthouse Christian store at 503 Cypress Gardens Blvd., S.E., in Winter Haven is the runner-up choice.

Used Bookstore

The Book Traders Inc. at 41 Third St., N.W., in Winter Haven has a wide selection of used books and a customer-friendly attitude that makes it the 2006 People's Choice Award winner for best used bookstore.

Owners Frank and Sue Uglaki offer literally thousands of books, from romance and horror to fiction and nonfiction. If The Book Traders Inc. doesnt have a book in stock, it can be ordered.

"We have something for just about everyone," said Sue Uglaki, who has operated the store with her husband since the 1970s. "We take in books and allow in-store credits, and we try to do it fairly. We love our customers, and we thank them for picking us for this award."

Car Wash

When dirt and grime take the shine from a car, People's Choice voters say Pat's Nustar Car Wash on Cypress Gardens Boulevard in Winter Haven is the best place to go to return the shine.

Owner Pat Murray said Pats Nustar is a good value for the money because of the people who work there. He said Pat's Nustar is committed to consistency in the quality of the wash, no matter what level of service is chosen.

Murray said most of the feedback he has received, especially from people who travel a lot, has been very positive.

"Most of the time, we put out a very clean car," he said.

Cellular Phone, Pager Store

Verizon was named the best cell phone/pager store in East Polk County by People's Choice voters.

Last year, the winner was Discount Cellular, with locations in Haines City, Lake Wales, Auburndale and Winter Haven.

Verizon has an office in Winter Haven at 710 Cypres Gardens Blvd. next to Publix, as well as four locations in Lakeland and two in Lake Wales.

Verizon offers a variety of products in addition to cell phone service. For details, go to www.verizon.com

Cingular finished runner-up to Verizon this year.

Consignment Shop

For previously worn clothing at a bargain, the Act II Shoppe on Cypress Gardens Boulevard in Winter Haven and East Stuart Avenue in Lake Wales retained its People's Choice title as the best consignment store.

Act II has been in business for 32 years and offers a good selection of name-brand items for men, women and children. The store also has a good selection of purses, jewelry and shoes.

Owner Deloris Meade says that what sets Act II apart is that the company beings in very nice clothing and prices it as low as possible.

"People know they can find mostly what theyre looking for," she said.

Encore finished the People's Choice voting in second place.

Convenience Store

Whether it's the food, the drinks or the fast fill-ups of gasoline tanks, 7-Eleven was chosen as the best convenience store by People's Choice voters.

With three locations just in the Winter Haven area, it's easy to see why Polk County residents make a fast pit stop at the store. The store offers hot dogs, sandwiches, the Big Gulp and Slurpees.

This year's runner-up is Sunoco, which has several locations throughout the county.

Department Store

Dillard's took the People's Choice Award for best department store this year.

The competitive prices helped put the store chain on top with residents at its two Polk County locations. One store is at the Eagle Ridge Mall in Lake Wales and the other is at Lakeland Square.

The runner-up is Belk's, located in Winter Havens Citi Center.

Discount Store

People's Choice voters know value, and when they are looking for multiple bargains in one place, they turn in overwhelming numbers to Wal-Mart, which was voted the best discount store.

With supercenters in Winter Haven, Auburndale, Bartow and Haines City and a regular Wal-Mart store in Winter Haven, the retail giant has plenty of convenient locations in East Polk County.

Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton opened the first of his discount stores in Rogers, Ark., in 1962, responding to competition to his small chain of stores from regional discount chains. Today Wal-Mart has 6,500 stores and wholesale clubs in 14 countries and employs 1.8 million people, 1.3 million of those in the United States.

Target, with a store in Lakeland, is the runner-up discount store.

Nail Salon

Need to look your best for a big event? Try Golden Nails on U.S. Highway 27 in Lake Wales. The business received the most People's Choice votes for best nail salon.

Golden Nails offers manicures, pedicures, acrylic nail services, waxing and facials.

Golden Nails owner Le Bui said people choose her salon because of the way they are treated.

"We take good care of our customers," Bui said. "We pamper them and make them feel special."

The runner-up this year was Pinky Nail and Spa at 1373 Sixth St., N.W., in Winter Haven.

Electronics, Computer Store

As a technology superstore known nationwide for its bargains, Best Buy is the winner of the 2006 Peoples Choice Award for best electronics and computer store.

The nearby store, at 4125 US. Highway 98 N. in Lakeland, is a success with people all across Polk County.

"We couldnt be more honored to receive this award," said Kevin Smith, the general store manager. "We receive many customers from the Winter Haven area, and we are happy to have them as our customers."

Whether people are buying computers, iPods, refrigerators or DVDs, Best Buy is the chosen destination for Polk County residents.

Circuit City, also in Lakeland, was the second most popular electronics and computer store in People's Choice balloting.

Sporting Goods Store

Play It Again Sports keeps Polk County active year after year with its new and used sporting equipment.

Jon Knowles, one of the managers at the store on Cypress Gardens Boulevard, said his store leads the state in the sale of baseball gear.

"We carry equipment for any sport in Florida, but we're No. 1 in baseball," Knowles said. "Out of 31 stores in Florida, we lead in baseball."

Knowles also said customer service is the store's top priority. He said there's a misconception that Play It Again Sports is mostly used equipment. While Play It Again Sports does carry used items, Knowles said about 80 percent of the merchandise on the racks is new.

Andy Thornal Company in Winter Haven was the runner-up in this category.

Furniture Store

For the third year in a row, Badcock Furniture has been voted the best furniture store in the area.

Badcock has been offering the latest in home furnishings at reasonable prices for more than 100 years. The companys stores also sells electronics and appliances to go along with choices in living room, bedroom, dining room and home office furniture.

Badcock has locations in Winter Haven, Eagle Lake, Lake Wales, Bartow, Haines City and Lakeland.

Furniture Market was the runner-up in this category.

Hair Salon

Need to look your best? Look no further than Salon on the Park on North Sixth Street in Haines City. The company was selected by People's Choice voters as the years best hair salon.

Sue Rivera, owner of Salon on the Park, said there is no secret to her success. She just tries to do her best with each client.

"I just do my best to treat each client the best they deserve," she said.

The salon offers several services, including hairstyling, nails, pedicures, tanning, body wraps, waxing, massages, facials and "revitalight" skin care.

The runner-up this year is Fantastic Sam's.

Hardware Store

When it comes to hardware stores, People's Choice Award winner The Home Depot offers almost anything a customer could want.

Appliances, bathroom and electrical supplies, electronics, power tools, home decor, building supplies and more fill the store's aisles. The company also rents trucks on a short-term basis to get goods from the store to the home.

The Home Depot, with locations in Winter Haven and Lake Wales, also teaches customers how to use the tools and supplies they buy. Regular classes and workshops are offered on a variety of topics, and there are even workshops for kids.

Lowe's is the runner-up in this category.

Hotel or Motel

The Best Western Admiral's Inn remains top People's Choice selection for best hotel or motel. This is the fourth consecutive year the inn has won a Peoples Choice Award in this category.

General Manager Jeff Vandiver said he was humbled that the inn received the award again.

"It's great that people chose us," he said. "People recognize our hard work, and people appreciate it."

The hotel is at 5665 Cypress Gardens Blvd. in Winter Haven.

The runner-up in this category is Hampton Inn, with locations at 202 Cypress Gardens Blvd. in WInter Haven and on U.S. Highway 27 in Haines City.

Jewelry Store

Polk County residents may have found a diamond in the rough. For the second straight year, they've named 14K Jewelry as the best jewelry store in Peoples Choice voting.

Owner Tina Carpenter expressed a deep appreciation for her customers and to the shops three employees.

"We're honored and excited," she said. "The employees are happy and also honored (because the business won the award)."

Carpenter and her husband, Derrick, have owned the store, located at 838 Sixth St., N.W., in Winter Haven, for 16 years.

The runner-up in this category is Midas Jewelers, located at 1114 Havendale Blvd. N. in WInter Haven and at 1380 State Road 60 E. in Lake Wales.

Nursery or Garden Center

When customers enter Home Depot's Garden Center, armed with a diagram of their yard and in need of ideas, employees are ready and willing to step in.

Garden center employees incorporate open space and many colors to make it a pleasurable shopping experience. Offerings change with seasonal favorites, such as petunias and crepe myrtle in the spring, geraniums in the fall, bougainvillea in the summer and Norfolk pines in the winter.

If there's something the store doesn't have, employees will try to get it for a customer.

For these reasons and more, The Home Depot was named the year's best garden center by Peoples Choice voters.

The Lowe's garden center in Winter Haven was second in People's Choice voting.

Pawn Shop

When East Polk County residents want to buy, sell or trade items, for years they have gone to Traders Pawn Shop at 2880 Havendale Blvd., N.W., in Winter Haven.

The shop is the 2006 People's Choice Award winner for best pawn shop.

"We're honored to have been chosen again," said store manager Rodney Cooper.

Traders has been selected as best pawn shop nine times in the past decade. A bargain hunter's delight, Traders routinely carries a wide variety of jewelry, firearms, tools, home appliances, musical instruments and television sets.

Receiving second-place honors for best pawn shop was Wagles Inc. at 1544 Third St., S.W., in Winter Haven.

Pest Control Company

Florida is famous for its oversized bugs, especially cockroaches and ants. To get rid of these pesky pests, Middleton Pest Control has been named the best pest control service in People's Choice voting.

Jaqueline Rivera, director of marketing for Middleton Pest Control, said Middleton's sustained service excellence is the primary reason Middleton is chosen over other pest control services.

Rivera said Middleton responds quickly if customers are unhappy for any reason. If services need to be reapplied, Middleton does so free of charge. Also, Rivera said the branch manager for the Winter Haven area personally goes to the homes of customers who have concerns. She said this is a rare policy in the business.

"We're genuine, down-to-earth people," Rivera said.

Orkin Pest Control is the runner-up in this category.

RV Dealer

Dusty's Camper World is the People's Choice selection for best RV dealer for the fourth consecutive year.

Interested shoppers can select from a variety of different makes and models, including a 2007 Thor Freedom Spirit or 2007 Thor Dutchman Denali.

Dusty's is located east of Bartow at 7400 State Road 60. People also can shop online at dustysrv.com.

Roofing Company

If you have a leaky roof, Bowen Roofing on Dyson Road in Haines City offers the best roofing service, according to this year's People's Choice voters.

In the 44 years he has been in business, owner Don Bowen said he has reroofed more than 14,000 roofs and has had only three complaints, none of which involved quality, he said.

Bowen Roofing exclusively does reroofing jobs.

The runner-up in this category was Sunniland.

Shoe Store

For great footwear at a low price, the name says it best: Payless. The Payless shoe store chain has been recognized by People's Choice voters as the best shoe store for 2006.

Payless offers some of the top brands offered by other shoe stores and has prices to match any budget.

Brands for women include Airwalk, Champion, Cross Trekkers, Fioni, Minicci, SafeTStep and Spalding. Brands for men include Airwalk, Champion, Cross Trekkers, Hunter's Bay Leather Collection, Spalding and Stanley. Payless also has brands for girls and boys.

Among the accessories sold at Payless are handbags and socks.

Dillard's is the runner-up in this category.

Thrift Store

With donated furniture and clothes galore, the Salvation Army has been providing low-cost items to the Winter Haven community for many years. Located at 1898 U.S. Highway 17 N., the Salvation Army received its third Peoples Choice Award for best thrift shop.

"This is exciting for us to win our third People's Choice Award," said store manager Barbara Johnson. "Were here to help people and try to do a lot for the community."

Goodwill, at 600 Sixth St., S.W., received second-place honors for best thrift store.

Travel Agency

AAA Travel Agency in Winter Haven went the distance this year, earning its second consecutive People's Choice Award for best travel agency.

AAA offers more than just roadside assistance to motorists. It also helps people with travel needs, hotel reservations, car rentals, cruise planning and more.

The Winter Haven office is at 601 W. Centeral Ave.

The runner-up in the category is Travel and Cruise World, located at 71 Lake Link Circle, S.E., in Winter Haven.

Video Rental

Perhaps for the "no late fees" feature or simply for its wide selection of videos, People's Choice voters rated Blockbuster as the best video rental provider.

Blockbuster is noted for having good customer service and offering a friendly, family atmosphere.

Blockbuster has several locations in Polk County, making it easier to locate those new releases on a Friday night.

Coming in second was Netflix, the online movie service. Netflix is available at www.netflix.com.

Services

Air-Conditioning/Heating

When the weather becomes unbearably hot, or uncomfortably cool, call on Clean Air Heating and Air Conditioning in Auburndale, voted as the best heating and air conditioning service in the area for 2006.

Clean Air has been in Polk County for a year and a half.

They carry all makes and models of air conditioners and heaters to suit the customers' needs.

Eric Browner, owner of Clean Air, said the customer comes first in his business.

"We really strive for customer appreciation," Browner said.

Automotive Service and Repair

For the second year in a row, Auto Dynamics has been named the best auto service/repair shop.

The 13-year-old business, located at 3020 Cypress Gardens Road, in Winter Haven, specializes in air conditioning, transmission and computer work.

"We really do everything, but especially anything dealing with the computer," said Auto Dynamics co-owner Manuel Baker.

Baker said being named the best repair shop again reaffirms his commitment to excellence.

"To me, it means that I'm succeeding in my job in providing a quality service at a price that people are comfortable with and can afford," Baker said.

Will Press was this year's runner-up.

Bank

Following its win for best bank in 2005, Wachovia has once again received the honor.

With five locations in Winter Haven, there is practically a Wachovia in every neighborhood. Clearly, they are the bank most trusted in this area for handling assets with accuracy and professionalism.

Wachovia offers a variety of services beyond holding and lending money, including helping customers save for retirement, investment well and find the right insurance plan. Wachovia offers online banking, for banking within the comfort of ones own home.

Bank of America, with several locations in Winter Haven, came in second for Best Bank honors.

Delivery Service

Known for its well-priced pizza, Hungry Howie's was named best delivery. It usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes to deliver the food to a customer.

"It doesnt boil down to delivery time, but the quality of food," Richard Bristow, co-owner of the Hungry Howie's at 1144 6th St., N.W., in Winter Haven.

Pizzano's Pizza at 3062 Cypress Gardens Blvd., S.E., in Winter Haven received second place.

Caterer

Looking for someone to cater your next party?

Catering events ranging from golf tournaments to football parties, Atlanta Bread Company, was voted best caterer in east Polk County.

"Were reliable," said Nate Nelson, a shift manager at the location at 787 Third St., S.W., in Winter Haven. "We make it a priority to get everything delivered on time."

The runner-up was Uncle Wallys Sandwiches at 1612 Dundee Road, in Winter Haven.

Carpet Cleaner

Stanley Steemer carpet cleaning was chosen again as the best in their category.

They clean tile and grout, as well as upholstery and furniture.

John Peters, owner of the Winter Haven franchise, said about 80 percent of his business is from repeat customers - a mark of a good service.

"Quality people, quality service and quality equipment sets Stanley Steemer heads and shoulders above the competition," Peters said. "We're committed to giving the best service to the community for the coming years."

College or Technical School

Smaller class sizes, one-on-one teaching and support from the community are three reasons Polk Community College was awarded best college/technical school by People's Choice voters.

"We're very pleased," PCC spokesman Thomas Dowling said. "The feeling here is that we put our students' success first."

PCC has campuses in Winter Haven, Lakeland and will soon offer a Lake Wales branch.

PCC's main campus is at 999 Ave. H, N.E., in Winter Haven.

Coming in second was Webber International University in Babson Park.

Dentist

With a positive attitude and genuine care for patients, Dr. Bradley Bartel was selected as east Polk's best dentist.

"I'm honored to have been chosen for this award," said Bartel, whose office is located at 150 Ave. A, S.E., in Winter Haven. "I appreciate all my staff who contribute to peoples satisfaction with our office. We do our best to try to treat people well."

The runner-up was Dr. Harry E. Bopp, whose office is as 225 Imperial Blvd. in Lakeland.

Dry Cleaner

When a dress or suit gets dirty, Top Hat Cleaners is the place for the best dry cleaning in the area.

Top Hat has locations on Cypress Gardens Boulevard and Spirit Lake Road. Doug Burnett, managing partner of Top Hat Cleaners, said outstanding service delivered by the clerks and the satisfaction guarantee separates Top Hat above the rest of the dry cleaners in the area.

Top Hat also offers a free button replacement service if any buttons should fall off because of the dry cleaning.

Dry Clean America, located at 1500 Third St., S.W., in Winter Haven.

Fitness Center

Gold's Gym is the place News Chief readers go to get in shape, naming it best fitness center.

"We have great customer service," said Angel Howland, customer service manager. "We also have a vast variety of classes."

Gold's Gym offers racquetball, basketball, tanning, a separate womens gym, yoga, pilates and dance classes.

Lifestyles was the runner-up.

Teacher

Julie Sear has been implementing her teaching passion at Grace Lutheran school for 17 years. She looks forward to each day on the job and enjoys reaching out to her students.

Sear said one of the best parts about her job is reading books out loud to her third grade glass.

"I'll stop at the most suspenseful part," Sear said. "And the kids will say, 'Oh, thats not fair! You're doing it to us on purpose!"

Sear integrates music and songs to her class schedule to break up the long school day. She also looks forward to the World Culture Festival, where students get to study a country and create a costume to represent the culture they studied.

Jane Hinger at Boswell Elementary school was runner-up.

Florist

Lasater's Flowers and Gifts keeps growing on Polk County residents because it was named best florist for a second year.

Owner Chris Hazelwood said she's honored residents chose the family-owned business again.

"We're very honored and proud," she said. "We're all excited (about the award)."

The business has been in Polk County since 1958, but has changed ownership a few times. Hazelwood said she, her husband and daughter acquired the shop about six years ago.

The shop, located at 220 W. Central Ave., in Winter Haven, has won three times for best florist.

The runner-up was Angelic Flowers, located at 421 Second St., N.W., in Winter Haven.

Hearing Aid Center

For hearing aid service beyond the initial sale, Miracle Ear is the place News Chief readers chose as best hearing aid center for the second year in a row.

Miracle Ear, in Winter Haven and Lakeland, goes beyond the sales of hearing aids, according to General Manager Darren Thorsen. They provide customers with a hearing test, and provideservice for hearing aids beyond sales.

"We hope to be the hearing aid provider of their choice for their hearing lifetime," Thorsen said.

Thorsen said people choose Miracle Ear because the offices are staffed with a knowledgeable, professional staff who treat customers the right way.

Quality Hearing, with locations in Winter Haven, Davenport and Lakeland, was the runner-up.

Hospital

Winter Haven Hospital is the best hospital among People's Choice voters.

The hospital offers a heart center and a designated stroke center. It also holds an affiliation with the University of Florida for emergency room doctor staffing.

According to hospital President and Chief Executive Officer Lance Anastasio, the hospitals quality comes from its nurses.

"We have very highly educated nurses, well beyond the standard RN designation," he said.

The hospital continues to work to reach new heights with new services and designations and has been a part of the community for 80 years.

Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center on U.S. Highway 27, north of Haines City, was the runner-up.

Interior Decorator

For seven years, Marcia's Interiors has served east Polk County, and this year, the business has been selected as best interior decorator.

"We appreciate this honor and are very pleased that our customers have been happy with our work," said Marcia Addington, owner of Marcia's Interiors.

Working mostly in Haines City, Winter Haven and Lake Ashton, Addington said her company also installs custom blinds.

Marcia's Interiors can be reached at 863-439-1400.

Blackburn's Interiors Inc., localted at 100 First St., S.E., in Winter Haven, received second-place honors.

Insurance Agent

Customer service has been a hallmark for State Farm agent Frank La Pietra, who was chosen best insurance agent by People's Choice voters.

Boasting a broad background in the insurance and financial service industry, La Pietra has fully trained staff in the areas of property, casualty, life and health insurance.

"We try to be available to our clients," La Pietra said. "We focus on our 'One and Done' philosophy. If a customer calls in, we try to take care of them immediately."

La Pietra's goals are getting the appropriate information from clients and educating them to prevent underinsurance or overinsurance.

La Pietras office is at 539 S. First St. in Winter Haven.

Nationwide Insurance was the runner-up.

Public Service

When Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd was running for office, one of his campaign promises was to provide better customer service for the community. The public has responded, naming the Polk County Sheriffs Office as giving the best customer service.

Chief Rick Sloan said the office is committed to being responsive to the public during phone calls and investigates any concerns people have when they call in. The Sheriff's Office also has several different programs designed toward customer service, including Senior Sleuths, where seniors with a problem can talk to Sheriffs Office representatives their own age.

Sloan said the office also has more than 1,000 volunteers on staff to provide customer service.

"Everybody here appreciates the publics vote of confidence," Sloan said.

The Winter Haven Area Transit bus system was runner-up.

Internet Service Provider

With a variety of options for quick, easy Internet service, Bright House was most popular with News Chief readers. The communications leader boasts that "when you live in a Bright House you can get what you need online and get on with life."

Bright House subscribers can choose from a variety of speeds and providers to find the perfect fit for their needs and budget. With popular options like faster Internet surfing, an always-on connection, and popular features like spam blocker, anti-virus and multiple email accounts, it's no wonder people in east Polk County chose Bright House as their best internet service provider.

People interested in subscribing to Bright House services can visit www.mybrighthouse.com.

Verizon came in second for most popular internet service provider. Verizon has several locations in Polk County, and interested subscribers can contact them at www.verizon.com.

Investment Firm

The Morgan Stanley branch office in Winter Haven combines the resources of a worldwide firm and a commitment to the local community, to make it the best investment firm by News Chief readers.

The Winter Haven branch, at 1101 First St., S.E., has 12 financial planners, 22 employees and manages $800 million in client assets.

"The secret to our success is that we focus on client solutions," said John Scheck, the Winter Haven branch manager. "Our priority is to help people manage their wealth and plan to meet their retirement objectives."

Morgan Stanley's Winter Haven office may be reached by calling 863-401-9449.

Another global firm, Edward Jones, was named runner-up.

Lawncare/Landscaping

Customer satisfaction is what U.S. Lawns, of Haines City, owner Alan Swinburne said is the reason his company was picked a cut above other lawn care firms in East Polk County.

"We care about our customers," Swinburne said. "We're gonna take care of them."

U.S. Lawns has been located at 501 Scenic Highway, in Haines City for the past two and a half years, and it is a first-time Peoples Choice winner.

Southern Landscape was runner-up.

Massage Therapist

Spa Bella was chosen as the best place for readers to receive a relaxing massage.

The company is at 3074 Cypress Gardens Road, in Winter Haven.

"We have great massage therapists," said Stacie Kelly, a nail technician at the spa.

"They are Susan Korem and Kim Zimmerman."

With services ranging from facials and hair styling, to glitter tattooing and Swedish relaxation, a massage therapist will also visit a business and relax employees with a portable massaging chair.

The phone number is 863-324-6090. The address on the Internet is www.myspabella.com.

Coming in at second place is Stephanie Tanner at GNK.

Medical Clinic

When people in east Polk County get sick or need medical advice, many turn Bond Clinic in Winter Haven.

"We are thrilled to be recognized as best medical clinic," said Jennie Maretti, director of marketing and public relations for Bond Clinic.

With more than 50 physicians available in 22 specialties, Bond Clinic is located at 500 E. Central Ave. in Winter Haven. Additionally, the clinic recently added an extended hours care clinic, with evening and weekend hours to better serve the community.

A benefit of receiving medical care at Bond Clinic is its dedication to nurturing care with one-on-one attention. The clinic provides the community with experienced health care staff, who give professional and personalized medical care with the most up-to-date technology.

Receiving second place honors was The Barranco Clinic, located at 160 E. Lake Howard Dr., with offices in Lake Wales and Sebring.

Optical Vision Center

Vision is a top concern of News Chief readers, and for the second year in a row, Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida has been named the best optical/vision care service provider.

Eye Specialists has locations in Winter Haven, Haines City, Sebring, Wauchula and Avon Park.

Surgical centers offering laser procedures include the Winter Haven office at 407 Ave. K, S.E., and the Sebring office at 3670 U.S. Highway 27, N.

Eye Specialists' Haines City office is at 100 Patterson Road.

One-hour service is available for most prescriptions, and Eye Specialists honors all doctor prescriptions. A full-service optical center, Eye Specialists features several of the most popular lines of eyewear.

Bond Clinic Optical received runner-up honors.

Orthodontist

People's Choice voters named Dr. Stephanie Cornejo's orthodontist office in Winter Haven as the best place to go for braces.

Her office has been located in Winter Haven for three years, and serves patients between ages 6 and 81.

Cornejo said her patients think she's fun and friendly, giving individual attention to each patient.

"I'm always accessible to my patients," she said. "I never get tired of looking at teeth. I like taking off a persons braces and seeing their straight smile."

Her office is at 1153 First St. S. in Winter Haven.

Second-place honors went to Dr. Richard White, whose office is at 400 Ave. K, S.E., Suite 8, in Winter Haven.

Pediatrician

Dr. Rachna Gulati, with Bond Clinic in Winter Haven, was voted as the best pediatrician.

"It's a rewarding field," said Gulati, who thinks of her patients as her own kids. "I've always known I wanted to go into pediatrics."

She also deals with children who are suffering from diabetes, asthma and cystic fibrosis, in addition to regular check-ups.

When Dr. Gulati walks into a room, she wants to make a doctor's visit a pleasant experience.

"If I can make one child better, it puts a smile on my face," she said.

Dr. Josef S. Kleine was voted runner-up and his offices are located at 435 Second St., N.E.

Physician

It may have taken 27 years since moving from Atlanta to Polk County, but cardiologist Edgar WIllard III finally has won a People's Choice for best physician.

The chairman of the Bond Clinic's board said he was surprised by the award. Willard, who sees patients at Bond Clinic, said he is proud of the clinics cardiology section this year because it has helped usher in the first open-heart program to the area.

"(The support is) gratifying," WIllard said. "It's nice to know people appreciate the health care they receive."

The runner-up was Dr. Bruce Clement, also with Bond Clinic.

Realtor

A dedication to customer service through a strong commitment to ongoing communication has served the team of professionals at Renee Butler - Broker's Realty well, leading their selection as best realtor.

Owner Renee Butler has 28 years of experience, providing a full-service brokerage to handle residential, commercial or industrial real estate transactions.

"We implemented the team concept as a way of providing the best customer service possible," Butler said. "Our commitment is to meet weekly or daily, whatever is necessary to maintain the communication for a high customer service level."

Butler and the members of her team are active in community and charitable endeavors.

"We are selling not only homes, but our community as well," Butler said, summing up the philosophy of the team.

Renee Butler - Broker's Realty is at 1142 First St., S., Winter Haven.

Pool Builder

There is no better way to cool off from the hot Sunshine State afternoons than to dive into a pool. And if you don't want to share your local community pool, call Griffin Pools in Lakeland. The people of East Polk County say theyre the best.

Located at 3404 Reynolds Road in Lakeland, Griffin Pools can install your own private swimming hole ready for you to use whenever you want.

Casual Way Inc., in Lake Wales, was the runner-up.

Entertainment

Local Festival Event

Though it began just last year, the Winter Haven Bike Fest has become a favorite festival according to News Chief readers.

The event takes place every third Saturday in downtown Winter Haven from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and draws thousands in with its wide variety of activities.

"It's a clean family orientated event," board president Jimel Baz said.

Vendors and a variety of food choices are included in the festival, as well as a chance to check out the wide variety of downtown merchants. A bike show, entertainment and games are a part of the event, as well as a special area for children.

According to Baz, the festival is in a nutshell, strictly for the family.

Winter Haven's Carols in the Park festival was the runner-up.

Attraction

Cypress Gardens Adventure Park in Winter Haven is the People's Choice for best attraction.

"I think Cypress Gardens Adventure Park was chosen by the people because the park has attractions for all ages," park public relations manager Lynn Wright said. "It's a great place for families to have fun together right here in their backyard. Cypress Gardens really is three parks in one with the historic botanical gardens, rides and water park."

The runner up in this category is the Historic Bok Sanctuary at 1151 Tower Blvd. in Lake Wales.

Dance School

Dance is a beautiful art form admired by many in the community, and for years, Barbara's Centre for Dance has trained aspiring dancers to be ballerinas, cloggers, tap dancers and more.

The award-winning Barbaras Centre for Dance has been chosen for as best dance school. Located at 600 Ave. C, S.E., in Winter Haven, the school offers classes in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, clogging and many other dance forms.

"Our goal is to help dancers develop a passion and love for the art of dance," said Barbara Mizell, owner and artistic director of Barbara's Centre for Dance.

Barbara's Centre for Dance has been in Winter Haven for six and a half years, and has instructed many dancers in the various performance dances through the years.

The Ballet Conservatory Dance Centre, located at 505 Ave. I, N.W., in Winter Haven, was voted second by Peoples Choice voters.

Gymnastic School

This category had our readers doing somersaults. Receiving best gymnastics school for the second consecutive year, is Florida Flips Gymnastics, located at 501 Burns Lane in Winter Haven.

Florida Flips offers a fully equipped gym and training in tumbling and competitive trampoline programs for boys and girls of all ages beginning with preschool.

"We went into the business for the kids," said owner Steve Voisard. He believes the reason they have been chosen is because parents know they are a caring company. Florida Flips encourages all children, regardless of athletic abilities, to attend classes.

Florida Flips is also available for birthday parties and day camps.

The runner-up for gymnastic school was GymTek, located at 2045 E. Edgewood Drive in Lakeland.

Live Music Entertainment

Tanners Pub is created to emulate the British pubs in owner John Tennick's native England. It is a place for causal entertainment - and it seems to be popular among People's Choice voters, who voted it the best place for live music and entertainment.

Centrally located in downtown Winter Haven, the pub hosts disc jockeys every weekend, along with a variety of local live bands, from a variety of genres.

Cypress Gardens was the live music runner-up.

Live Theatre

Entering its 37th season, Theatre Winter Haven at the Chain of Lakes Complex, has once again won a People's Choice Award for best live theatre.

"I think it is great to win again," said Thom Altman, the theatre production manager.

Since Theatre Winter Haven's start in 1969, Altman said the theatre has put on nearly 300 productions.

"It is quite an honor to receive this recognition," Altman said. "We think the arts are very important to this community, and business and patron support keep us in the area."

Martial Arts School

Tiger's World will have you kicking up a storm in a no time.

Whether it is to become more disciplined, get in shape, or learn how to protect yourself, Tiger's World is ready to teach you all you need to know - and more.

With two locations in Winter Haven, people of east Polk County say there's nowhere better for classes in martial arts, kickboxing and karate.

Ro's Tae Kwon Do and Fitness in Winter Haven was the runner-up in this category.

Movie Theater

Grab some popcorn and a soda at the concession counter and settle down into a comfy chair at the Cobb Grand 10 Cinema for the best show in town.

People's Choice for best movie theater for the second year in a row, is Cobb Grand 10 Cinema in the Spring Lake Square Mall off Havendale Boulevard, in Winter Haven.

Brett Gillman, a manager of the theater, credits the theaters great employees for its success.

The theater offers first-run movies in a comfortable environment that includes stadium seats, digital sound and curved movie screens.

Runner-up in this category is Lakeside Cobb, located at 1650 Town Center Drive in Lakeland.

Public Nature Park

People's Choice voters prefer the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the gardens at Historic Bok Sanctuary more than any other nature park in east Polk.

The Sanctuary was once again named this year's People's Choice winner for best public nature park.

"We just really work hard to provide a beautiful place, a peaceful place as well as many cultural events," said Cindy Turner, the sanctuarys marketing director. "We really think the sanctuary provides a lot of great opportunities to rejuvenate their minds and spirits."

Bok Historic Sanctuary at 1151 Tower Blvd. in Lake Wales.

Coming in at second place is Lake Stella in Winter Haven.

Leisure, Sports Place

Cypress Lanes in Winter Haven was tabbed by voters as the best place to enjoy some leisure time or unwind.

The bowling alley is located at 2010 Dundee Road in Winter Haven.

"Bowling is great for all ages, whether you're 5 or 80. Day, night, it doesn't matter," said Cypress Lanes activities director Mary Ann Watson.

In addition to bowling, the alley offers batting cages and a game room.

Cypress Lanes also has a variety of leagues and tournaments.

"We have specials on different days," Watson said. "Dollar nights on Wednesday night, and we have awesome chicken wings at our sports bar. We have nine TVs and a big screen in the lounge."

Recreation station was the second-place winner.

Fun and unusual

First-Rate Business Leader

When it comes to community business leaders, Bonnie Parker, with her contagious smile and community passion, is ranked at the top of readers' lists.

"I care a lot about the Winter Haven community," said Parker, a member of the Winter Haven Rotary Club. "I love to see businesses succeed."

Parker is the new president of the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, and has been involved in the organization for a long time.

A Polk County native, Parker is senior vice president and area manager for SunTrust Bank and Mid-Florida.

Bob Gernert, the executive director of the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, was the runner-up.

Karaoke

Whether you're practicing for "American Idol" or you simply want to belt out a horrible tune, Cherry Pocket Kountry Klub, in Lake Wales, is the place for you. Voters selected this local gem as the place with the best karaoke in east Polk County.

Debbie Bailey, general manager of Cherry Pocket, said the restaurant has a "great system" for karaoke.

"We get quite a number of people come in and the ages vary from younger to older," she said. "It's a mix of music."

Cherry Pocket is at 3100 Canal Road in Lake Wales.

Coming in at second place is CGs, off Cypress Gardens Boulevard, in Winter Haven.

Happy Hour

Happy hour seems to be happiest at Tanners Pub in downtown Winter Haven, a favorite among People's Choice voters.

At happy hour, customers can find half-off well liquor, house wine and draft beers, and free popcorn.

The bar and restaurant also have both live entertainment and disc jockeys and is a popular meeting place for singles, with its central location.

Applebee's, with a location in Winter Haven, on Cypress Gardens Boulevard, was the runner-up in this category.

Biggest Aggravation

For the second year in a row, road construction was voted as the biggest aggravation, but this year, voters were a little more specific, singling out construction on U.S. Highway 27 in Haines City near Interstate 4.

This construction has been going on for over a year, causing problems for both motorists and businesses in the area, according to Jane Patton, executive director of the Haines City Chamber of Commerce.

Patton said there were some businesses affected so much, they were threatened with going out of business. Once the construction is completed, it will greatly improve that stretch of the highway.

"I think when it's done, there will be a rebirth on U.S. 27," Patton said.

People talking on cell phones in restaurants was selected as the second biggest aggravation.

Place to Meet Singles

With a popular happy hour and fun atmosphere, Tanners Pub is the top spot for meeting singles.

"This is where everyone comes, it is a place to see and be seen," Tanner's bar manager Ben Shultz said.

The pub hosts disc jockeys and local bands. A central location to meet singles, voters enjoy Tanners Pub in downtown Winter Haven.

CG's, off Cypress Gardens Boulevard, in Winter Haven, was the runner-up.

Place to People Watch

Situated on Highway 27, in the heart of east Polk, is the place to go if people watching is your sport: Eagle Ridge Mall.

According to the malls marketing manager of almost three years, John Scherlacher, the mall receives about 1 million visitors a year.

"In the area, we are number one with people-traffic," he said.

In addition to shopping and people-watching, the mall is host to many community happenings.

Cypress Gardens was the people-watching runner-up.

Place to Take a Date

In Winter Haven, Christys Sundown Restaurant is the place to take a date.

For 54 years, Christy's has been a notable dining institution in east Polk County, offering a unique array of specialty dishes and a quiet ambiance for patrons looking for the perfect date location.

"I think people like to eat here because its a tranquil restaurant," said manager Keith LaBoda.

Christy's, located at 1100 3rd St., SW, often offers dinner specials for diners looking for an elegant meal for a bargain.

The Sea Flame Steak and Seafood Restaurant, located at 2601 Havendale Blvd. in Winter Haven, was runner-up.

High School Mascot

The Haines City Hornet has been named the best high school mascot by the People's Choice voters.

Sporting the school's colors, this giant green and black hornet has been exciting the crowd at Haines City football and basketball games for years, seeing the Hornets win a state championship in basketball.

The Winter Haven High School Blue Devil was the runner-up for best mascot.

Place to Walk

Lake Hollingsworth, in Lakeland, offers shady, open sidewalks for Polk Countians wishing to enjoy time outdoors. For these reasons, the popular lake was chosen as the best place to walk.

"The popularity of Lake Hollingsworth is attributed to the fact that it is exposed to the public," said Bill Tinsley, director of parks and recreation for the City of Lakeland. "People feel a sense of security while walking around the lake."

The lake's manageable distance is appealling to walkers and runners.

"Having a 2.8 mile walking track around the lake is very attractive to people because they can manage it within a leisure hour," Tinsley said.

Lake Howard, in Winter Haven, was named second best place to take a walk in Polk County.

Fishing Hole

Grab some bait and a fishing pole and set out to catch a meal at Cherry Pocket Fish Camp, located near Lake Pierce in Lake Wales.

Cherry Pocket was named best fishing hole for the second consecutive year.

Debbie Bailey, general manager of Cherry Pocket, said the fish camp offers residents and visitors a relaxing atmosphere to fish.

Cherry Pocket Fish Camp is at 3100 Canal Road in Lake Wales.

Camp Mack's River Resort, located at 14900 Camp Mack Road in Lake Wales, was the runner-up.