| Summary of the 2009 Historic Home Workshop |
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The ninth annual Historic Home Workshop was held on Saturday, March 7, 2009 at Florida Southern College. This event was sponsored by the City of Lakeland Historic Preservation Board, Historic Lakeland Inc., Florida Southern College, and Citizens Bank and Trust.
A new attendance record was set with approximately 225 people participating in the event on a beautiful spring day. Residents of all six residential historic districts attended workshops as well and visited the 19 exhibits. In addition to Lakeland residents, thirteen participants came from Mulberry, Temple Terrace, Brandon, Lake Wales and Tampa. Six out-of-state visitors from Illinois and Ohio participated in the event.
Interactive workshops were presented on a variety of topics including:
- Florida Friendly Landscaping – Bill Koen, Horticultural Specialist, City of Lakeland
- Interior Preparation & Painting – Gary Witte, Walt Witte & Sons, Inc.
- Design Guidelines – Lynn Schindler; Senior Planner, City of Lakeland
- The Permitting Process – Herman Blom; Acting Chief Building Official, City of Lakeland
- Appropriate Exterior Details – Charlie Swedberg, Contractor
- Home Energy Efficiency – Kevin Jones, Rico Dunsmore, Mike Harmeling; Energy Analysts, Lakeland Electric
- Attracting Wildlife to Your Garden – Anne Yasalonis; Florida Yards & Neighborhoods
- Termites & Insect Infestations – Dr. David Shibles; Polk Co. Cooperative Extension Services
- Code Enforcement and Accessory Dwelling Units – Jim Dehne, Code Enforcement Supervisor and Matthew Lyons, Senior Planner, City of Lakeland
- Location, Location AKA House Moving – Jim Pickering, Gainesville Restoration
- Container Gardening – Jim Luna, Custom Creations Landscape Design
- Front Porch Renovations – John French, Contractor
- Tenant Screening & Evictions – Gene Lord, DART Coordinator, Lakeland Police Department
- Crime Prevention & Neighborhood Watch - Dr. Greg Robinson, Supervisor, Community Services, Lakeland Police Department
Workshop attendance ranged from 5 to 49 with standing room only in several classrooms. One workshop, Appropriate Exterior Details, was offered twice.
The tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Buildings at Florida Southern College was conducted by Chris Graham a docent from the college; approximately 20 persons participated in the one hour plus tour.
Exhibits were provided by companies and trade groups that offer services and supplies for the maintenance and renovation of older homes. City agencies and various non-profit organizations were also present. Thirty-six door prizes were generously donated by sponsors, exhibitors, and local businesses.
Participants were encouraged to ask questions and share solutions with others in the midst of home renovations. This venue allowed many folks to network, brainstorm, problem solve, and meet neighbors.
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