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EXCITING EVENTS HAPPENING IN POLK COUNTY THIS WEEKEND MARCH 21-23

Staff Reporter
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EXCITING EVENTS HAPPENING IN POLK COUNTY THIS WEEKEND MARCH 21-23
Bloom: A Two-Day Flower Festival

📍 Bonnet Springs Park, Lakeland, FL
🕙 Daytime hours (Check park website for exact times)
🌿 A free celebration of nature, creativity, and horticulture featuring floral installations, botanical art, garden tours, pollinator education, horticulture demos, a makers’ market, food, drinks, and entertainment.
📢 As highlighted by @gregorykingjr on X, this is a must-visit event!

Electricity Exploration at GiveWell Community Nature Center

📍 GiveWell Community Nature Center, Bonnet Springs Park, Lakeland, FL
🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
⚡ A hands-on experience where participants explore static electricity, circuits, and batteries to create movement. Free for all ages (adult supervision required).

Downtown Farmers Curb Market

📍 Downtown Lakeland, North Kentucky Avenue
🕗 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
🥕 A vibrant market featuring fresh produce, plants, and handcrafted local goods. A great way to support local vendors while enjoying a morning stroll.

Auburndale Flea Market

📍 1052 US-92, Auburndale, FL
🕗 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (also open Sunday)
🛍️ One of Central Florida’s largest flea markets, with over 1,200 vendors offering antiques, fresh produce, and more—plus live entertainment, including alligator shows and music!

Sunday, March 23, 2025

Bloom: A Two-Day Flower Festival (Day 2)

📍 Bonnet Springs Park, Lakeland, FL
🕙 Daytime hours (Check park website for details)
🌸 The festival continues with the same floral displays, nature-inspired activities, and entertainment—all free to the public!

Auburndale Flea Market (Day 2)

📍 1052 US-92, Auburndale, FL
🕗 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🎶 A second day of treasure hunting, shopping, and live entertainment.

Ongoing & Seasonal Activities

Polk Senior Games

📍 Various venues across Polk County
🕒 Times vary (Main events run through March 16, but check for extended activities)
🏅 Athletic and recreational competitions for seniors. Some related events may continue—check local listings for updates.

U-Pick Berry Farms

📍 Various locations near Polk County (e.g., Plant City)
🕙 Morning to early afternoon (Varies by farm—call ahead to confirm availability)
🍓 Strawberry season is still in full swing! Many local farms offer first-come, first-served picking experiences.

Plan Your Weekend!

🌤️ Weather Tip: March in Florida is typically warm and sunny, but check the forecast for potential rain.

📞 Verify Details: Visit event websites (e.g., bonnetspringspark.com or downtownlkld.com) or contact venues for exact times and updates.

Enjoy your weekend in Polk County! 🎉

Sun Safety in Florida: Protecting Your Skin as Summer Approaches

Staff Reporter
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Sun Safety in Florida: Protecting Your Skin as Summer Approaches

Living in Florida, we’re no strangers to sunshine—it’s one of the reasons we love it here. With summer just around the corner, spending time outdoors is a fantastic way to stay active and unwind. However, as the temperatures rise and we stock up on sunscreen, it’s worth taking a closer look at how to enjoy the sun safely.

The Sun and Skin Cancer: What’s the Connection?

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Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and the primary culprit is excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. These invisible rays, emitted by the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps, can damage skin cells over time, increasing your risk. Here in Florida, where the sun shines year-round, protection from UV rays is critical—not just in summer, but every day. UV rays don’t take a break on cloudy or cooler days, and they bounce off surfaces like water, sand, and concrete, amplifying exposure. For us Floridians, UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during daylight saving time (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. standard time), so timing your outdoor activities matters.

One handy tool to keep in your back pocket is the UV Index, which forecasts daily UV strength. If the UV Index hits 3 or higher—common in Florida—take extra steps to shield your skin.

Your Sun Safety Toolkit

Here’s how to enjoy Florida’s outdoors without putting your skin at risk:

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  • Shade: Seek out shade under an umbrella, tree, or canopy to lower your exposure. Even in the shade, sunscreen or protective clothing is your best defense.
  • Clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts, pants, or skirts when possible. Tightly woven fabrics offer the best UV protection, while wet T-shirts lose effectiveness. Darker colors might give you an edge over lighter ones, and some gear even comes with certified UV protection.
  • Hats: A wide-brimmed hat is your face, ears, and neck’s best friend. Skip straw hats with holes—tightly woven materials like canvas work better. Baseball caps are great, but pair them with sunscreen or clothing to cover your ears and neck.
  • Sunglasses: Protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them with sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Wrap-around styles are ideal to keep rays from sneaking in. Most sunglasses sold in the U.S. meet this standard, regardless of price.
  • Sunscreen: Before heading out, slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) that tackles both UVA and UVB rays. Apply a thick layer to all exposed skin—don’t skimp—and enlist help for spots like your back. Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Check expiration dates, too; sunscreen lasts about three years unless exposed to heat, which shortens its shelf life. For babies under 6 months, skip sunscreen and use shade or clothing instead.

Why It Matters Now

As summer nears, Floridians should be extra vigilant. Our state’s intense sunlight and reflective beaches make UV protection a year-round priority, but the longer, hotter days ahead call for action. Stocking up on sunscreen might just be your smartest move yet—combine it with shade, clothing, and smart timing, and you’ve got a solid plan to enjoy the outdoors safely.

This article is adapted from sun safety guidance provided by the CDC, available in the public domain. For more details, visit their official resources.

Drunk Bradenton Man Arrested After Allegedly Making Death Threats & Banging On Davenport Residents Door

Carl Fish
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Drunk Bradenton Man Arrested After Allegedly Making Death Threats & Banging On Davenport Residents Door

Press Release PCSO

On Wednesday, March 19th, at around 3:53 am, PCSO deputies responded to a residence in the Champions Chase neighborhood (off of Ronald Reagan Parkway) in Davenport, due to a reported disturbance.

The resident had called 911 and said that someone was pounding and kicking the door, demanding that he be allowed inside, and he was making death threats. He was hitting the door so hard that he broke the door frame and dented the door.

When the deputies arrived, they found a man still at the door, and they detained him. He was identified as 27-year old Derek Pardue of Bradenton.

Pardue was #ArrestedByThePolkCountySheriffsOffice and taken to the Polk County Jail.

Pardue, who blamed his actions on being intoxicated, was charged with burglary and criminal mischief.

In Loving Memory Of Retired Polk County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant & Army Veteran Dan Logan Cooley

Carl Fish
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In Loving Memory Of Retired Polk County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant & Army Veteran Dan Logan Cooley

Dan Logan Cooley, age 69, died March 17, 2025, in Bartow, FL. He was predeceased by his eldest brother Tony, mother Peaches and father Cliff. He is survived by his wife Linda (nee Albritton), daughter Heather (Brian) Turner and grandchildren Anthony and Aurora of Davenport, son Cliff Cooley of Lake Wales, and younger brother Lee (Andrea) Cooley of Scottsdale, AZ. 


Born March 11, 1956, in Pompano Beach, Dan earned the rank of Eagle Scout at Troop 240 in Jacksonville Beach and graduated from Fletcher Sr. High School in Neptune Beach in 1974. He served four years in the U.S. Army and graduated from the University of North Florida with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Dan worked for a private security firm and at an auto parts store before a long career at the Polk County Sheriff’s Department as an investigator and Sergeant in Detentions. He was known as the “King of Contraband” which saved hundreds of lives. In his retirement, he worked part-time at Walmart and a local Dodge dealership. Dan also wrote a regular humor column for The Mulberry Press called “Old Coots Giving Advice”. He never stopped helping his community. He would hold presentations at a local elementary school and volunteer at the Luster African American Heritage Museum in Bartow. Every day he found ways to give acts of service to his community. He was a true Christian soldier.


The Family will receive friends from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm Friday, April 11, 2025 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home in Bartow, FL. A Celebration of Life Service for Dan will follow at 4:00 pm Friday, April 11, 2025 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family ask to make a contribution in Dan’s name to your favorite charity. Condolences to the Family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com

Left Leaning Groups Hosting Town Hall Meeting in Polk County to Discuss How Potential Federal Cuts to Medicaid and SNAP Could Impact Floridians

Carl Fish
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Left Leaning Groups Hosting Town Hall Meeting in Polk County to Discuss How Potential Federal Cuts to Medicaid and SNAP Could Impact Floridians

Editor Note: Exact cuts or program specifics are currently not known at this time. For example several potential proposals would limit purchase items under SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) such as sodas and candies, but it could also involve much more.

Press Release- Florida Policy Institute

DAVENPORT, Florida – On Wednesday, March 19 from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Florida Policy Institute (FPI), Florida Impact, and Florida Voices for Health, in conjunction with the Safety Net Advocacy Coalition (SNAC), are hosting an in-person town hall meeting at the Community of Faith United Methodist Church in Davenport. The purpose of the event is to discuss proposed federal cuts to food and health care assistance programs, what they would mean for everyday Floridians, and how community members can get involved to defend these critical programs.

WHAT: Town hall featuring a panel discussion on the proposed federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, followed by a Q&A session with community members.

WHO: The panel will be moderated by Sadaf Knight, CEO of FPI. Panelists include-

  • Kim Johnson, President/CEO, Florida Impact
  • Scott Darius, Executive Director, Florida Voices for Health


WHEN: Wednesday, March 19, from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.

WHERE: Community of Faith United Methodist Church, 9120 Teacher Ln, Davenport, FL 33897

HOW TO RSVP: Seating is limited — advance registration is required. Click here to register. Members of the media are welcome to attend. Email Sonia Lindell, FPI, at [email protected] to set up an interview with any of the panelists. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/BACKGROUND:

Proposals advancing in Congress would cut over $1 trillion in funding for Medicaid, SNAP, and other essential programs that Floridians rely on. The cuts would put health care access and food security at risk for Floridians across the state, including seniors, children, and working families.

In Polk County, 199,700 people receive Medicaid benefits and 154,700 participate in SNAP; in Osceola County, 108,000 people receive Medicaid benefits and 73,500 participate in SNAP, according to recent data.

4Th Annual Soul Music Festival This Weekend In Ft. Meade

Carl Fish
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4Th Annual Soul Music Festival This Weekend In Ft. Meade

FORT MEADE, FL – Dorothy Jean’s Dream Initiative, Inc. will present the 4th Annual Central Florida

Soul Music Festival (CFSMF) in Downtown Fort Meade, Florida, on Saturday, March 22, and Sunday,

March 23, 2025. This year’s headliner is Grammy Award winning artist Chrisette Michele, and will feature

three-time Grammy Award nominated gospel artist Anita Wilson, and “The Voice” semifinalist Makenzie.

The festival is free and open to the public.

“Soul Saturday” will start at 11 am until 10 pm, and will be filled with soulful acts performing songs that

we all know and love. It will culminate with an entertaining performance by Chrisette Michele. “Spirit

Sunday” will go from 11 am until 8 pm. There will be performances throughout both days from national

and local artists, including some of Central Florida’s best young talent.

“We are excited and encouraged by the continued support from our community for this event,” said festival

founder Jaret Landon. “We are looking forward to everyone coming out and enjoying themselves in a

positive and enriching environment. Each year we add more vendors and sponsors which gives us

confidence that we are filling an important need. My mother would be so happy to see what we have built.

”

The festival had been a one-day event in previous years, but expanded to two days and longer hours due to

overwhelming public response. This year’s event will also feature two performance stages. Both days will

feature vendors selling great food and wonderful wares. The food experience is going to be fantastic with

confirmed food vendors serving a range of dishes, including seafood, barbeque, conch salad and other

Bahamian dishes, handmade lemonades, Jamaican cuisine, Italian Ice, and other great food.

The CFSMF was created by arts visionary Jaret Landon, in honor of his late mother’s dream for him to

bring arts to the world through his talent and determination. Dorothy Jean Williams is the namesake of the

foundation that organizes the event.

There are a limited number of vendor spaces open and space can be reserved by visiting

fmcitycenterplaza.as.me. There are also sponsor opportunities available by contacting 470.249.5800.

Anyone needing general information about the festival can contact 863.622.2955.

Dutch Bros Bringing The Energy & A Second Location To Davenport

Carl Fish
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Dutch Bros Bringing The Energy & A Second Location To Davenport

Dutch Bros Coffee, the renowned Oregon-based drive-through coffee chain, is amplifying its presence in Davenport, Florida, with the introduction of a second location. This expansion underscores the company’s commitment to bringing its signature energy and diverse beverage offerings to the Sunshine State.

The inaugural Davenport outlet, situated at 2800 Jacks Road, opened its doors in early 2024 under the local leadership of Chandell Nganga.  Building on this momentum, Dutch Bros has unveiled a second location coming to Osceola Polk Line Rd near Fords Garage Restaurant. Another Polk County location is coming to the old Boston Market location (150 Cypress Gardens Blvd.) in Winter Haven. Details on when these locations may be opening has not been released. They are however starting the process to hire: Dutch Bros Searching For Broistas

Founded in 1992 by brothers Dane and Travis Boersma in Grants Pass, Oregon, Dutch Bros has experienced remarkable growth, evolving from a modest pushcart operation to a formidable coffee empire with over 1,000 locations across 17 states as of February 2025.  The company’s mission transcends serving beverages; it emphasizes fostering community connections and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Dutch Bros. Broista Handing Out Coffee

The menu at Dutch Bros is both extensive and innovative, designed to cater to a wide array of tastes. Coffee aficionados can indulge in classics like the Caramelizer—a rich caramel mocha—or the Annihilator, which features chocolate macadamia nut flavors. For those seeking an alternative to coffee, the proprietary Blue Rebel™ energy drinks offer a customizable energy boost, with a variety of flavors to choose from. Additionally, the menu includes smoothies, lemonades, and teas, ensuring there’s something for everyone. 

Dutch Bros’ distinctive approach to customer service sets it apart in the competitive coffee industry. Employees, affectionately known as “broistas,” are celebrated for their upbeat and engaging interactions, creating a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with customers. This emphasis on positive engagement has cultivated a loyal following, often referred to as the “Dutch Mafia.”

The company’s strategic focus on drive-through service aligns with contemporary consumer preferences for convenience without compromising quality. This model has significantly contributed to Dutch Bros’ rapid expansion and its status as a major player in the U.S. coffee market.

The introduction of a second Dutch Bros location in Davenport signifies more than just the availability of quality beverages; it represents the brand’s dedication to community engagement and personalized service. As Dutch Bros continues its expansion across Florida and beyond, residents and visitors alike can anticipate a variety of beverage options served with the distinctive Dutch Bros flair, further enriching the local coffee culture.

Delve into the Mystical World of Narnia with the Mystic Tea and Stories Podcast

Staff Reporter
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Delve into the Mystical World of Narnia with the Mystic Tea and Stories Podcast
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by James Coulter

The beloved fantasy series The Chronicles of Narnia is set to receive its latest film adaptation in theaters and on Netflix next year.

Until then, for anyone who cannot wait to explore the magical world of Arden, the books are readily available to read at your local library and bookstore.

Mystic Tea and Stories is a new podcast that has been exploring the Narnia book series to help unveil the mystical meaning behind the stories and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in the process.

Hosted by Amanda Elizabeth Stauffer, Mystic Tea and Stories was created, along with her Etsy store, as a way to connect with other people who love vintage YA fiction as much as she does.

As her website explains, “Her podcast explores vintage fiction through a mystical lens, featuring conversations with guests and delving into themes of mysticism and the wild things of God.”

Stauffer has been a woman-of-all-trades, doing everything from crafting and writing, to content marketing and graphic design.

She was initially inspired to start her podcast to help market her book-themed Etsy shop; however, she decided to follow her heart and delve more into the mystic aspects of her favorite books.

“I wanted to be true to what I actually loved and wanted to talk about, [which] was books, but also the mystic aspect.” she said. “I heard mysticism described as the ‘adventure of the wild things of God’ and I love that.”

Recently, local author J.C. Alexandre, author of the YA fantasy series “The Light Prince” inspired by Narnia, appeared on the podcast to discuss the third book in the Narnia series, “Voyage of the Dawn Treader.”

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Likewise, Amanda Stauffer appeared on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast to discuss her podcast and the mystical influences that inspired it. Listen to the full podcast episode on Acast: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-56-mystic-tea-stories-wamanda-elizabeth-stauffer

Welcome, World Travelers! Here’s What Disney World Attractions Will Be Closing (And When)

Staff Reporter
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Welcome, World Travelers! Here’s What Disney World Attractions Will Be Closing (And When)

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by James Coulter

From the Muppets taking over a classic coaster in Hollywood Studios, to new Indiana Jones and Encanto rides coming to Animal Kingdom, to a whole villains-themed land being built in the Magic Kingdom, big changes are coming to Walt Disney World.

However, with these big changes also comes the closing of many old and beloved attractions Here’s what attractions will be closing this year and when they will close:

#1: Magic Kingdom

The good news is that the Magic Kingdom will see a massive expansion with the construction of both Cars and Villains-themed lands. The bad news is that these new lands will also see the removal of the iconic Rivers of America with the Tom Sawyer Island and Liberty Square Riverboat attractions.

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When exactly the river will be closed and drained to make way for the new lands has yet to be officially announced. However, the Disney Parks Blog has stated that: “Ahead of work revving into high gear next year, guests will have plenty of time to experience the charm and nostalgia of Frontierland as it is today.”

As of December 2024, Disney has submitted updated plans to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) following the district’s Request for Additional Information (RAI) and is currently awaiting its approval. For now, the Rivers of America can be expected to close sometime later this year.

But the Rivers will not be the only Frontierland attraction to close. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad recently closed temporarily for refurbishment, with an expected opening sometime next year in 2026.

Also, in Liberty Square, the Hall of Presidents show had likewise closed temporarily for refurbishment and is scheduled to re-open sometime later this year.

#2: Disney’s Animal Kingdom

A new Latin America-themed land has been proposed for the park with attractions based on Encanto and Indiana Jones. The new land will replace Dinoland USA along with its attractions including The Boneyard play area and the iconic Dinosaur thrill ride.

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So far, TriceraTop Spin, along with smaller attractions like Fossil Fun Games and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures, have already shut down as of this January. Several more attractions are slated for closure throughout the year, with the Dinosaur ride slated to close in 2026.

Meanwhile, the It’s Tough to Be A Bug 4-D show located in the Tree of Life will close its doors on Mar. 17 to make way for its replacement, Zootopia: Better Together. Kali River Rapids has also closed temporarily and is set to re-open sometime this spring.

#3: Disney’s Hollywood Studios

It’s finally time to stop the music. It’s time to dim the lights. And it’s almost time to meet the Muppets one last time before they close the doors to their iconic MuppetVision 3D show.

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Both MuppetVision 3D and the adjoining themed restaurant PizzeRizzo are scheduled to close permanently on June 7. The area will be rethemed and renovated into the new Monster Inc.-themed land, which will include a suspended roller coaster.

As for the Muppets, they are set to make their new home at Rock n Roller Coaster, which will be rethemed to the Muppets’ band, The Electric Mayhem. While this means Rock n Roller Coaster featuring Aerosmith will be set to close, no official closure date has been announced.

Cooking on the Ridge: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Staff Reporter
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Cooking on the Ridge: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
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by James Coulter

I love curry. I love how the blend of sweet and spicy makes Indian food so flavorful. And I love being able to make my food extra spicy by adding hot peppers to the mix.

The only thing I love more than curry is my slow cooker. All you have to do is dump all your ingredients in the pot, turn it on, and let it cook through the day for a delicious meal come dinner time. So, of course, I love being able to prepare my curry dishes with my slow cooker.

And making the entire experience more convenient are curry sauces sold premade in jars. It certainly saves me time measuring and adding all of the different spices. All I have to do is dump the sauce in with my meat and veggies, and I have a scrumptious curry dinner by the end of the day.

I recently purchased my first curry simmer sauce and used it to make chicken tikka masala. The sauce was extra spicy, just the way I love it! The recipe is easy enough: just add the sauce to a pound of chicken and cook.

However, like with all good recipes, it can always be improved with modifications. So, I also added diced onion, fire-roasted tomatoes, and green chilies for added spice. The result was a spicy helping of curry served with white rice and naan bread.

With how easy this recipe is, I certainly expect to prepare it for future meals. Maybe next time I’ll add jalapeno or even poblano and habanero peppers. The spicier, the better.

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Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

1 lb. chicken thigh or breast

1 tbsp. minced garlic

1 15. oz. jar curry sauce (like Patak’s Taste of India)

1 diced onion

1 10 oz. can diced tomatoes (fire roasted for added heat)

1 7 oz. can green chilies or jalapenos (optional for added heat)

Directions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized portions.

2. In a large frying pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.

3. Add the chicken and cook until the meat turns white.

4. Add contents to slow cooker along with sauce, diced tomatoes, and peppers.

5. Cook on high for six hours, or low for eight hours, or until chicken has been cooked thoroughly.

6. Serve with rice and naan bread.

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