Brenda (Tomlin) Watson passed away on September 9, 2025 after a several months struggle with cancer.
Brenda is a lifelong resident of Winter Haven who worked for the postal system until her retirement. Her main interests involved gardening and growing African violets and loving her family. She is deeply missed but we are grateful knowing she’s now reunited with loved ones who went before her.
She is preceded in death by parents T.A. Tip Tomlin and Flo Ferguson Stinson, sons Bobby Joe Watson and Billy Joe Watson, Jr. She is survived by son Brady Joe Watson, sisters Sandi Tomlin Sutker and Pamela Tomlin Howard, several nieces and nephews as well as ex-husband Billy Joe Watson, Sr.
A celebration of life will be held at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Winter Haven on Saturday, September 20th at 2:00pm.
Alan James Ford, 80, of Winter Haven, Florida, passed away on September 4, 2025. He was born on February 1, 1945, in Canton, Ohio to Andrea (Hiller) Ford while his father James Dewey Ford was serving in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific. After the war, the Ford family settled in Florida, where Alan grew up, met his wife Linda and raised two daughters, Deborah and Rebecca.
Throughout his life, Alan strived to harmonize the various triumphs, joys, tragedies, and mysteries of our human experience. Working at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, he delighted in great art, music, and glimpses at an optimistic future. Although the future unfolded differently in some ways, his passion for art, music, and literature continued. After studying philosophy at the University of Miami, he was drafted into the Army and served in Vietnam, where he endeavored to reconcile patriotic duty and a love for his country with his conscience and what he came to understand as his duty to God. After working for some time as an electrician, he eventually attended seminary in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and became a Lutheran minister.
In addition to art and music, Alan treasured literature and poetry, often weaving allusions to his favorite works into his sermons. He also enjoyed tennis and cycling, travel and foreign languages, nature walks and beach combing.
He is survived by his wife Linda, daughters Deborah and Rebecca, grandchildren Rainier and Erza, and his sisters Carol and Susuan, as well as friends, extended family members, and community members who will miss him dearly.
A Committal Service with Military Honors will be held on Friday, September 19th at 12:30pm at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Winter Haven Florida on Saturday, September 20th at 10:00am.
Welcome, World Travelers! Walt Disney Animatronic Coming to Carousel of Progress
by James Coulter
Walt Disney may have passed away five years before Walt Disney World opened, but the founder of the Disney company will soon be making an appearance at the Happiest Place on Earth–albeit through the magic of audio-animatronics.
Several big announcements about the Disney parks were made during Destination D23, hosted during the last weekend of August at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World.
One exciting announcement, made during the “Creating the Happiest Place on Earth” panel on Sat., Aug. 30, was about a Walt Disney animatronic to be created for the Carousel of Progress attraction in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom.
The Carousel of Progress is a unique audio-animatronic show set inside a rotating theater that showcases the technological progress experienced during the 20th century through the life of a single American family.
The attraction made its debut at the New York World’s Fair in 1964. It was later showcased at Disneyland from 1967 until 1973, when it moved to its new and current home at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.
Since its debut at the World’s Fair, the Carousel of Progress, according to the Disney Parks Blog, “has had more performances than any other stage show in the history of American theater.”
As the attraction showcases Walt Disney’s passion for progress and innovation, it’s only fitting that an audio-animatronic representation of the man himself will start the show through a new opening presentation set to debut sometime next year.
This will not be the first time Walt Disney has appeared as an audio-animatronic figure at a Disney park. Disneyland introduced its own figure earlier this year on July 17 as part of the attraction “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” to celebrate the park’s 70th anniversary.
To ensure historical accuracy, the audio-animatronic figure was created through a collaboration by Disney Imagineering with the Walt Disney Archives and the Walt Disney Family Museum.
“We are grateful to The Walt Disney Company and Walt Disney Imagineering for their continued collaboration and ongoing partnership with The Walt Disney Family Museum,” said Kirsten Komoroske, Executive Director of the Walt Disney Family Museum.
“The introduction of a new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney in ‘Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress’ marks an exciting milestone in our shared mission to celebrate the story of the man behind the magic and inspire new generations with his innovations and vision for the future,” she continued. “We appreciate the continued efforts and meticulous care that Imagineering has taken to keep Walt’s legacy alive.”
Sally I. Bush, 94, of Dundee, FL, went to be with the Lord on August 30, 2025. She was born on June 2, 1931, in Troy, NY, to Elmer and Winifred Conley Shupe. Sally moved to Dundee, Florida in 1982 from Syracuse, NY, and was a devoted member of St. Ann Catholic Church in Haines City, FL.
Sally volunteered at St. Ann Catholic Church with the bereavement ministry. She loved golfing, traveling, and boating with her husband Paul. A true dog lover, she especially cherished her dog “Precious.” Sally always made everyone feel at home when visiting and took care of their every need. It was said that her personality was fierce, kind, and sassy—she loved to have a good time and always spoke her mind. She was dearly loved by all her nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Winifred; husband, Paul Bush; siblings, Elmer B. Shupe Jr., James A. Shupe Sr., and Winifred Sabel. Sally leaves behind to cherish her memory her many nieces and nephews, as well as her dear friend, Scott Trombley.
A memorial mass will be held on September 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church in Haines City, FL. Her final resting place will be at Forest Hill Cemetery in Haines City, FL.
In her memory, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or to Feeding America at www.feedingamerica.org or mail your donation to 161 N Clark St Suite 700 Chicago, IL 60601
Bobby Ray Griffin of Haines City, Florida passed away on September 10, 2025, at his residence. He was 75 years old. He was born on June 14, 1950, in Asheville, North Carolina to Floyd and Gertie May Griffin.
Bobby is predeceased by his parents, Floyd and Gertie May; his wife, Glenda Faye Griffin as well as his grandsons, Clint and Bobby. He is survived by his sons, Kevin (Renee) Griffin, Bobby Ray (Sue) Griffin; daughters, Kerri Griffin, Crystal (Jason) Rusticus, Tammy Griffin, Tonya (Andrew) Ratliff; grandchildren, Blake (Justin), Maggie, Chace, Jaxen, Robbie, Dalton, Jake, Tanner, Ellis, Taylor, Heather, Haley, Melissa and Landen as well as great grandchildren, Loreli, Jade, Hailey, Ella, Millie, Grace, Aspen, Timbrah, Caleb, Peyton, Brionna, Malachi and Novaleigh.
A visitation was held Monday, September 15, 2025 at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, Haines City. Final resting place is Evergreen Cemetery in Davenport, Florida.
Hey There, Winter Haven! Your Weekend Live Music & Entertainment Guide Is Here
Get ready to turn up the volume and kick off your weekend in style, Winter Haven! Whether you’re into smooth acoustic sets, lively full-band performances, or karaoke sessions where you are the star, there’s something for everyone happening around town from Thursday through Sunday.
Here’s your full rundown of live music and entertainment events happening at some of your favorite local spots:
Thursday, September 18
Tony Kight at Tanners Lakeside 4:30–7:30 PM Enjoy lakeside views and the soothing sounds of Tony Kight to get your weekend vibes started early. 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven
Hunter Macneer at Cypresswood Pub 6:00–9:00 PM Kick back and relax with an acoustic set from Hunter Macneer at this cozy local pub. 1099 Clubhouse Rd, Winter Haven
Karaoke Night at Out-n-About Bar and Music Lounge 7:00–11:00 PM Warm up your vocal cords and take center stage—karaoke is calling! 28390 US-27, Dundee
Friday, September 19
Got Ur 6 at Tanners Lakeside 6:00–10:00 PM Rock out with Got Ur 6 under the stars right by the lake. 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven
Gerry Williams Band at Cypresswood Pub 6:00–9:00 PM Enjoy a night of live music and great food with this crowd-favorite band. 1099 Clubhouse Rd, Winter Haven
Saturday, September 20
Karaoke at Out-n-About Bar and Music Lounge 1:00–4:00 PM Early birds, this one’s for you! Start your Saturday with some daytime karaoke fun. 28390 US-27, Dundee
Jaded at Tanners Lakeside 7:00–10:00 PM High-energy live rock music right on the waterfront—don’t miss it! 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven
Blind Ambition at Cypresswood Pub 6:00–9:00 PM Spend your Saturday night enjoying Blind Ambition’s mix of classic and modern hits. 1099 Clubhouse Rd, Winter Haven
Sunday, September 21
Conspiracy Theory at Tanners Lakeside 2:00–4:00 PM Cap off your weekend with this Sunday afternoon performance by Conspiracy Theory. 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven
Want to Get the Word Out About Your Band or Venue? If you’d like your weekend live music or entertainment promoted, shoot an email to [email protected] for more information.
No matter your style or schedule, there’s a stage, a mic, and a vibe waiting for you. See you out there, Winter Haven!
Looking for hands-on fun this October? AR Workshop Winter Haven is offering a lineup of cozy, creative, and family-friendly events perfect for the Fall and Halloween season. From chunky knit blankets to pumpkin painting, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re crafting with kids or planning a festive night out with friends.
Fall & Halloween Family Workshop
Saturday, October 4, 2025 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Kick off the season with a DIY workshop designed for the whole family. Create a unique home décor item using a variety of tools, paints, and non-toxic stains, all with guidance from experienced instructors.
Cost: Starts at $39 for youth (ages 6+) and $59 for adults
Each attendee must be registered
Feel free to bring your own food or drink to enjoy while you craft
Pumpkin Painting & Petals
Thursday, October 16, 2025 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Say hello to fall with this delightful workshop featuring pumpkin painting and floral decorating.
Cost: $25 per person (includes pumpkin)
Great for a night out with friends, family, or neighbors
Fall & Halloween Family Workshop (Encore)
Friday, October 24, 2025 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
If you missed the first one, here’s your chance to join another fun-filled family DIY session. Craft a custom piece of fall décor with help from our creative team.
Cost: Starts at $39 per person
Registration required for all participants
Bring your own refreshments
Happy Halloween Pick a Project
Friday, October 31, 2025 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Create a unique item, utilizing a variety of tools and techniques, our in-house collection of paints and non-toxic stains while guided by our crafty instructors.
Cost: Starts at $20 a person
Registration required for all participants
Location & Contact
AR Workshop Winter Haven 5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Suite 210 Winter Haven, FL 33884 Phone: 863-347-4568
Whether you’re creating home décor, making seasonal gifts, or just spending quality time together, these workshops are the perfect way to welcome Fall. Reserve your seats early—spots are limited and fill quickly!
Winter Haven and surrounding areas are buzzing with activities this weekend, offering everything from ladies’ night specials to cultural celebrations and hands-on creative workshops. Here’s your guide to what’s happening:
Thursday, September 18
Ladies Night at Out-n-About Bar and Music Lounge Kick off the weekend early with BOGO deals on well liquor and wine. A perfect evening to unwind with friends.
Bark on Park – Lake Wales This pet-friendly event begins at 6 PM at Market Plaza on Park Ave in Lake Wales. Paws and Perches Animal Hospital will be on-site—stop by and say hello! They are a Daily Ridge sponsor and we super appreciate them!
Friday, September 19
Thank DIY It’s Friday at AR Workshop Winter Haven Get creative from 6–8 PM at this hands-on DIY experience. Perfect for a fun and relaxing night out. Workshop details and other events here: https://www.arworkshop.com/winterhaven/#schedule
Saturday, September 20
18th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival Celebrate culture and community at Lake Gwyn Park from 10 AM to 2 PM. Enjoy music, food, performances, and more at this beloved annual event.
Cypress Gardens Free Water Ski Show Head to Lake Silver for an exciting display of water-ski talent. The free show starts at 4:30 PM and is great for the whole family.
Wood and Canvas Family Workshop at AR Workshop Winter Haven A fun and artistic session for all ages from 1–3 PM. Great for families looking to spend quality time together.
Hat Workshop at AR Workshop Winter Haven End your Saturday with style from 5–7 PM, designing and creating your own custom hat.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy live entertainment, celebrate Hispanic heritage, or get hands-on with DIY fun, there’s something for everyone in and around Winter Haven this weekend.
*If you would like your weekend event featured in the future, please email [email protected]
Join the Winter Haven Fire Department for a day of fun, learning, and community spirit at their Open House!
When: Saturday, October 4, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Where: Fire Station 1 – 301 Ave. G SW, Winter Haven (across from Andy’s Igloo)
Bring the whole family and enjoy: -Station Tours -Bounce Houses -Explore Fire Engines -Free Refreshments -Games & Prizes -Educational Activities
This is a free, family-friendly event where you can meet your local firefighters, see the equipment up close, and learn about fire safety in a fun way.
“On September 18, 1970, 27-year-old rock superstar Jimi Hendrix is found unresponsive by a girlfriend inside London’s Samarkand Hotel in London, England. The guitarist is declared dead on arrival at a local hospital, and a post-mortem finds that he asphyxiated on his own vomit after overdosing on sleeping pills and alcohol.
Photo source history.com
Described by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as “the most gifted instrumentalist of all time,” the electric guitar legend was known for his flamboyant stage presence and ability to play guitar solos between his legs or behind his back. Born Johnny Allen Hendrix in Seattle, Washington, in 1942, the singer-songwriter had a troubled childhood but displayed a keen interest in music that ignited after his father purchased a $5 second-hand acoustic guitar for him. To avoid prison time for riding in stolen cars, Hendrix opted for a plea deal that involved his enlisting as a U.S. Army paratrooper While stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, he formed The King Kasuals with bassist Billy Cox and gigged around the region.
After being discharged, Hendrix performed as a session guitarist with marquee acts such as Sam Cooke, B.B. King and Little Richard. In 1965, he began fronting his own group, Jimmy James and the Blue Flames. Although unable to read or write music, Hendrix went on to develop a revolutionary sound that featured feedback, volume and controlled distortion.
In 1966, aspiring manager Chas Chandler, former bassist for the British rock group the Animals, signed Hendrix after seeing him perform at a small Greenwich Village club. At his urging, Hendrix moved to London, changed his stage name to “Jimi” and formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience with bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell.
The band’s first single, “Hey Joe,” spent 10 weeks on the British charts, and the North American release of their 1967 debut studio album, Are You Experienced, featured the hits “Foxy Lady,” “Purple Haze,” “The Wind Cries Mary” and “Are You Experienced?” Hendrix became an instant sensation in the United States after playing a guitar solo with his teeth at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival and closing his set by lighting his guitar on fire.
Following the 1969 breakup of the band, Hendrix closed the Woodstock Music Festival with an iconic, protest-inspired rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Hendrix reunited with Mitchell and Cox for the 1970 Cry of Love tour, but deepening substance abuse and a mounting legal docket that included a paternity case and recording contract dispute impacted performances. The tour was cut short in September 1970 after his bassist fell ill. Hendrix died 12 days later. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.”
