Music fans in the Winter Haven area have several opportunities to enjoy live entertainment over the coming weeks, with local venues featuring a variety of solo artists, duos and bands.
Duke Burr will perform solo during the “Burgers ‘N’ Blues” event at Tipsy Hen on Thursday, June 11, from 6 to 9 p.m.
On Friday, June 12, Mike & Duke Burr will take the stage at Twisted Prop from 6 to 9:30 p.m.
B. Haven is scheduled to perform at Kimber’s on Saturday, June 13, from 7 to 10 p.m.
Cypresswood Pub will host three nights of live music beginning Thursday, June 11, with the Curt Beasley Duo performing from 6 to 9 p.m. Prime Country Duo will follow on Friday, June 12, from 6 to 9 p.m., and Sensational Vibes featuring Yolanda will perform Saturday, June 13, from 6 to 9 p.m.
At Tanner’s Lakeside, X It 7 will perform Saturday, June 13, from 7 to 10 p.m. Strictly Business is scheduled to perform Sunday, June 14, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Looking ahead to July, Jade & Duke will perform at Somewhere Sports Bar on Wednesday, July 15, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Want Your Music Featured?
Musicians performing in the Winter Haven area who would like their shows included in a future roundup can submit their schedules to [email protected]. Be sure to include “LIVE MUSIC” in the subject line to be featured in an upcoming edition of the Winter Haven Daily music listings.
LAKELAND, FL (June 11, 2026) – On Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 2:11 a.m., Lakeland Police received a call of a vehicle which drove into a retention pond on the property at 2600 County Line Road. Just prior to the call, a grey Toyota Prius was traveling eastbound on the grassy shoulder of the roadway which led to the entrance of the property. For unknown reasons, the vehicle slowly backed into a concrete Lakeland Electric pole, then began traveling forward, drove down an embankment and into a pond.
The Lakeland Police Department Patrol Units, Polk County Fire Rescue, and the Lakeland Fire Department all arrived on scene to find the vehicle was fully submerged under the water. The LPD dive team was called to retrieve the vehicle and found one adult male deceased inside. Detectives also responded to assist with the investigation. Based on preliminary evidence, no foul play is suspected.
This remains an open and active investigation. If anyone has additional information regarding the crash, please contact investigating Officer Matthew Hermann at [email protected].
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of 32-year-old Jonathan Morales Pabon, who died in a vehicle crash while off-duty on June 9, 2026, on I-4 in Haines City.
Jonathan Morales Pabon
Jonathan was hired as a detention deputy in March 2021, and was sworn in during an oath of office ceremony on May 17, 2021. He was assigned to the South County Jail in Frostproof. Jonathan lived in Davenport. He is originally from New York, NY. He was a state corrections officer prior to being hired at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office – he served with the Florida Department of Corrections from 2018 until 2021. In addition to his Florida corrections certification, he had an associate’s degree in HVAC from the Technical Career Institute in New York.
“We are all grieving at the loss of this great young deputy who has well and faithfully served with our agency for the past five years, and was a public servant for several years prior to that. He will be greatly missed. Please keep his family in your prayers.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating the traffic crash, which occurred around 10:30 p.m. last evening. Jonathan was the front seat passenger in a red Nissan Rogue being driven eastbound on Interstate 4 by a 21-year-old Lake Wales woman. Jonathan was reclined back in his seat. The driver of the Nissan, after going under the U.S. Hwy 27 overpass, suddenly braked and then traveled across several lanes in order to quickly exit the interstate; the Nissan went into the path of and was struck by a Ford F350 that was also heading eastbound in the far right lane at highway speed. The impact caused Jonathan to slide into the rear of the SUV where he struck his head, which was a fatal injury. The driver of the Nissan suffered a minor injury and was transported to a local hospital. The driver of the Ford truck, a 38-year-old Orlando man, was not injured.
Kairos Church would like to invite the community out to our Two-Day Indoor/Outdoor Vendor Market Sposered by Kairos Students – Featuring Local Vendors, Food, Giveaways, and Family Fun. Shoppers can enjoy the market on June 19 and 20. The event will bring together a diverse collection of local vendors offering a wide variety of products, handmade goods, specialty foods, and unique services.
Visitors can browse antiques, vintage finds, furniture, upcycled treasures, handmade jams, throws, pens, hand-sewn creations, baked goods, sourdough bread, pet items, permanent jewelry, custom jewelry, dreamcatchers, artwork, crocheted items, candles, tie-dye apparel, boutique clothing, custom t-shirts, personalized gifts, and much more. In addition to shopping, attendees will find car wash and detailing services, new bin merchandise, sweet treats, candy vendors, local lemonade stands, dirty sodas, specialty beverages, and family-friendly arcade entertainment.
To make the event even more exciting, raffle giveaways will be held throughout both days, giving shoppers multiple opportunities to win prizes from participating vendors. A special Father’s Day giveaway will also take place on both Friday and Saturday.
Guests can take a break from shopping and enjoy refreshments at ECHO Coffee House, which will be open 4p-7p on June 19th and during shopping hours on Saturday June 20th.
The Indoor/Outdoor Vendor Market offers a unique opportunity to support local businesses, discover one-of-a-kind products, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and spend quality time with family and friends, and support Kairos Student Ministry.
Admission is free and open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend this community-focused event celebrating local entrepreneurs, artisans, makers, and small businesses.
Residents are asked to follow posted routes, cones and closures to help keep drivers, pedestrians and crews safe while roadway infrastructure work continues.
Road work is inconvenient. We understand it can change your route, slow down your day and make a familiar road feel frustrating for a while. But these temporary inconveniences are also part of a long term investment in the safety, reliability and condition of Winter Haven’s roadway infrastructure. The community has asked for improvements to roads, drainage, sidewalks and other infrastructure. That work is happening, and the City is asking for the community’s help to make sure it happens safely.
Why This Matters
Road closures, cones, barricades and posted Maintenance of Traffic routes are not suggestions. They are put in place to protect drivers, pedestrians, construction crews and nearby property while work is underway. Even when active equipment is not visible, closed work zones can still include hidden hazards such as open holes, ditches, exposed wires, uneven pavement, overhead work or equipment entering and exiting the area.
What Residents Should Expect
As roadway work continues, drivers may see temporary closures, detours, cones, barricades, lane shifts, flaggers, or posted routes directing traffic around active construction areas. These changes may be inconvenient, but they are part of the process of safely completing infrastructure improvements. When you see cones, it means a problem has been identified, a solution has been designed, funding has been secured and the improvement is being built.
Safety Concerns in Closed Work Zones
The City has seen vehicles enter unsafe work zones, get stuck, drive into ditches, and come dangerously close to heavy equipment. These situations create risks for drivers, passengers, construction crews, and nearby property. Pedestrians also face serious risks when walking through closed construction zones. Hazards may include holes, uneven surfaces, overhead work, exposed wires, or equipment moving through the area.
What Residents Need to Know
Please help keep roadway projects safe by following these reminders:
• Respect all road closures, cones, and barricades.
• Follow posted Maintenance of Traffic routes.
• Do not drive around closure signs or into closed work zones.
• Do not walk through closed construction areas.
• Use extra caution near crews, equipment, and uneven pavement.
• Remember that hazards may still be present even when equipment is not visible.
Temporary Inconvenience. Long Term Investment.
Infrastructure improvements often require a short term disruption before the long term benefit is complete. The City appreciates the community’s patience, caution and respect as crews continue working to improve Winter Haven’s roadway infrastructure.
For questions about a specific road closure or roadway project, residents may contact the project manager listed on the project page (https://winter-haven-fl.civilspace.io/en).
Below is the previous article regarding Lane Closures Scheduled Throughout City of Winter Haven Until Mid July:
A 47-year-old Apopka man died Tuesday morning following a crash along State Road 400 in Polk County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 6:25 a.m. on June 9, 2026.
Investigators said a 50-year-old Orlando man was driving a Toyota Camry westbound on SR-400 when he failed to maintain control of the vehicle. The Camry traveled onto the outside shoulder of the interstate and struck a trailer that was attached to a parked Chevy Silverado.
The Silverado’s driver, a 47-year-old Apopka man, was standing outside of his vehicle on the shoulder at the time of the collision. After striking the trailer, the Camry also struck the man.
The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment but later died from injuries sustained in the crash.
The crash remains under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.
A bit of shade and diligent sunscreen use can go a long way, but protecting your skin – the body’s largest organ – takes more than just the basics for optimal health, particularly during the hottest times of the year.
In fact, it’s not only about what you put on your body, but in it, too. Emerging research suggests grapes may do more than simply provide hydration, nutrition and natural sweetness; they may help support health at the genetic level. A study published in “ACS Nutrition Science” found consuming grapes changed gene expression in human skin and helped support biological processes associated with healthier, more resilient skin.
These findings add to mounting evidence that grapes act as a “nutrigenomic” food, meaning the antioxidant and other polyphenol compounds naturally found in grapes may influence how genes behave in the body. The results also highlight how whole foods like grapes may influence important biological pathways in the body, according to John Pezzuto, dean and professor of pharmaceutics at the Western New England University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
“We are now certain that grapes are a superfood and mediate a nutrigenomic response in humans,” Pezzuto said. “The changes in gene expression indicated improvements in skin health.”
Along with making foods like Grapes from California a regular part of your diet, consider these ways to support and protect skin throughout the year.
Cool Down After Sun Exposure
Time in the sun can leave skin feeling dry or irritated, even with sunscreen and protective clothing. After going for a run or spending time at the pool, make sure to rinse off sweat and chlorine with a gentle cleanser then follow up with a lightweight moisturizer or lotion to replenish skin and leave it feeling fresh. Applying moisturizer regularly – especially after showering or washing your face – can help lock in hydration and support your skin’s natural barrier.
Consume Skin-Friendly Foods and Beverages
A cold glass of water goes a long way, but what you put on your plate can play a role in how your skin looks and feels, too. Foods that deliver antioxidants and other polyphenols, like California grapes, may help support skin health from the inside out. An additional bonus: With their high water content, grapes can help maintain hydration, particularly during warmer months.
For the best of both worlds, add an easy beverage to your menu with California Grape Rosemary Spritzers, which combine sparkling water and grapes with a hint of rosemary for a sip that’s equal parts refreshing and delicious.
Don’t Forget Lips and Eyes
Layering sunscreen on exposed skin might be your first priority before stepping into the sun. However, lips and eyes shouldn’t be forgotten. Often overlooked in skin care routines, lips are especially vulnerable to sun damage and dehydration. Make sure to use a lip balm with SPF protection throughout the day and reapply often.
Similarly, the delicate skin around the eyes might be one of the first places to show signs of sun damage. Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield both your eyes and surrounding skin from harsh rays.
Keep an Eye on Changing Skin
New spots, skin changes or itchiness shouldn’t be ignored. Perform regular skin checks at home, particularly if you spend a lot of time outdoors, and routinely visit a dermatologist who can help catch potential concerns early in support of long-term skin health.
Find more ways to support your skin with nutritious foods and recipes by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com.
Get ready to cool off this summer as Haines City Parks & Recreation brings back its popular Summer Splash Bash for two exciting dates in 2026.
Families from Haines City and surrounding communities are invited to enjoy free water-filled fun featuring giant water slides, a foam party, and plenty of activities for kids and families.
The Summer Splash Bash will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 12, 2026, and July 17, 2026, at the Larry Parrish Baseball Complex, located at 2401 E. Johnson Ave. in Haines City.
The event is free to attend and is designed for families and individual participants. Organizers note that the event is not intended for camps or organized groups.
For more information, contact the Haines City Parks & Recreation office at 863-421-3700.
WINTER HAVEN – A trip to the emergency room can be frightening for anyone, especially babies and children. To help ease those fears, employees, residents, and the local Walmart have teamed up with the Winter Haven Hospital to provide toys for young patients visiting the Emergency Department.
A Toy Drive was launched by the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation on May 28 with stacks of toys ready to comfort and distract little boys and girls during their visits while also helping nurses and doctors build trust with their youngest patients.
“When a child comes to any emergency department, it can appear to be a scary, intimidating place,” said Wayne Olson, President/CEO of the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation. “We always want their parents to know their child is getting the best care possible. However, it is equally important for the child to know the people in the room with them care about them. A toy is a wonderful way to build trust and a bond. It shows care and concern.”
Studies have shown that play therapy in a hospital setting reduces anxiety and negative emotions and also helps children express and communicate their feelings and emotions through toys.
Olson said the Foundation got involved after he spoke with Marta Mendoza, Director of Emergency Service for the Winter Haven Hospital.
“A few months ago, I was having a casual conversation with Marta when she told me how important it would be for the Emergency Room to be able to give toys to children. Not long after that I talked with my friend at Walmart and a few other friends of the Foundation, and we all decided we could make a difference together,” Olson said.
What started with two colleagues led to the recent Toy Drive as well as the previous donations of toys.
At the Toy Drive, Tom Garthwaite, President of Winter Haven Hospital, and BayCare Health System, welcomed Jerry Esquivel, Store Manager of the Winter Haven Walmart, and about twenty elves – also known as store employees – as they paraded into the room with arms full of gifts.
Tom Garthwaite, President of Winter Haven Hospital
The gifts from Walmart were stacked next to those already collected from employees and local residents. From Barbies to Star Wars action figures to baby dolls to stuffed puppies, dozens of gifts were donated. WWF wrestlers, coloring books and crayons, and stacks of gifts for infants and toddlers were given too.
“We have a great relationship with our local Walmart, and we are pleased to have them as the sponsor of this Toy Drive event,” Garthwaite said. “It’s like Santa’s sleigh just passed through.”
Walmart’s donations at the Toy Drive added up to more than $1,000 in toys which was a surprise for the ED.
“We especially liked the idea of surprising the Emergency Department team with a grand kick off. They really are unsung heroes. As much as they want children to know they care about them, we wanted the fantastic people in the Emergency Department to know we as a community support them and care about them,” Olson said.
Last October, the Winter Haven Hospital added pediatric emergency observation services and telehealth support to the Emergency Roomcreating the need for toys.
Although the Toy Drive was a big success, collecting toys for the ED will be an ongoing effort since the toys will need to be “refilled” as they are given to the patients.
“The events of last week were just the kick-off. This is a program that happens every day and will continue forever. For our event on May 28, the goal was to get us started in a big way, and to have enough toys for every age group so we would be set for a while as we grow the program,” Olson said.
T. Michael Stavres, Winter Haven City Manager and member of the Coastal Acoustic Barefoot Music, has also committed to donating the band’s tips to the Toy Drive, as well.
The Foundation has made donating a toy easy for anyone who would like to do so.
“We have QR codes (included with this article) on pamphlets throughout our hospital and website and where people can give a toy anytime. Through our partnership with Walmart anyone can purchase a toy (approved as safe by our Emergency Department) and Walmart will deliver it directly to the hospital,” Olson said.
