Looking for a quiet place to unwind or let the kids burn off some energy? Banana Lake Park is a park in Lakeland that offers a little something for everyone.
Nestled along the scenic shores of Banana Lake, the park provides a relaxing setting perfect for picnics with a water view. Visitors can take advantage of covered picnic shelters, making it a great spot to gather with family and friends while enjoying the outdoors.
For families with children, the park features a playground where kids can climb, slide, and play. Those looking to stay active can enjoy a short, paved walking trail, ideal for a casual stroll or light exercise.
Banana Lake Park also caters to outdoor enthusiasts with a convenient boat launch and a fishing pier, giving visitors easy access to the lake for boating and fishing activities.
Parkgoers should note that grills are not available on-site, so it’s best to plan meals ahead of time.
Whether you’re planning a laid-back afternoon or a quick outdoor escape, Banana Lake Park offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment right in the heart of Lakeland.
On March 30, 2026, Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 24‑year‑old Jesus Bosch of Lakeland following a grand theft investigation that escalated into a vehicle pursuit and multiple felony charges.
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Deputies responded after a victim reported that his backpack had been stolen from his driveway. A neighbor witnessed a white Volvo station wagon stop; a man exited the car, took the backpack, and then fled in the car. The witness was able to relay the tag number of the white Volvo with a Mississippi license plate to deputies. The stolen backpack contained approximately $1,200 worth of property, including keys, a laptop computer, battery packs, and other work‑related items.
Deputies soon located the Volvo traveling southbound on Kathleen Road in Lakeland. The suspect stopped at the intersection of Duff Road and Green Road, where three marked patrol units and one unmarked vehicle activated their emergency lights and positioned themselves in front of and behind the vehicle.
Bosch attempted to drive around the front patrol car but was unsuccessful. He then shifted into reverse, accelerated rapidly, and struck the front bumper of the deputy’s vehicle behind him. The deputy was in the process of exiting his vehicle and was hit by the driver‑side door, causing minor injuries, including a laceration.
Despite the collision, Bosch fled the scene at a high rate of speed, traveling southbound on Green Road. Deputies initiated a pursuit, which ended when a precision immobilization technique (PIT) maneuver disabled the suspect vehicle in a grassy ditch. Bosch initially refused to exit the vehicle despite multiple loud verbal commands and had to be physically removed.
A search of the vehicle revealed methamphetamine, cannabis, and drug paraphernalia. Additionally, the victim’s stolen backpack was recovered from the back seat of the vehicle. The items reported stolen were accounted for and later confirmed by the victim.
Bosch admitted to stealing the backpack while driving through neighborhoods. He claimed he was unaware that he was being pursued by law enforcement. He told deputies that he was under the influence of methamphetamine.
Bosche was arrested and charged with grand theft (F3), resistance without violence (M1), resistance with violence (F3), aggravated assault on law enforcement (F2), aggravated battery on law enforcement (F1), fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement (F3), possession of meth (F3), possession of marijuana (M1), possession of drug paraphernalia (M1), and keeping a motor vehicle for narcotics use (M1).
HAINES CITY – Sharon Gardner was known for the kindness she extended to everyone, from her students to strangers on the street. So, it was only natural that in 1962, she brought together a small group of women with a shared desire to serve their community.
That group became the ESA Sorority, originally formed with about 11 members. Despite its collegiate-sounding name, Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA) is an international service organization founded in 1929, dedicated to community service, leadership, and friendship, with approximately 10,000 members nationwide.
Over the years, the local chapter evolved. New members joined, and eventually the group adopted a new name, Legacy of Love. Though Gardner passed away last June, the spirit she instilled continues to guide the organization.
Kathy Prince, a close friend of Gardner, believed she was organizing what would be the group’s final meeting in February. But once the women gathered, it became clear that ending the group was not what Gardner would have wanted.
“This is the sweetest, most loving group I’ve ever had the honor of being a part of,” Prince said. “These ladies have experienced everything imaginable, the real sides of life.”
Today, Legacy of Love has grown to about 25 members, including all of the original members except Gardner. The group remains deeply committed to supporting one another and their community, whether by organizing prayer chains or coordinating meals for those in need.
Gardner was the heart of it all, the foundation and driving force behind the group’s enduring success.
“The day after the Legacy of Love annual meeting, Sharon would start planning for the next year,” Prince recalled.
Each year, Gardner chose a theme and carried it through every detail of the annual gathering. Last year’s theme was lighthouses. This year, fittingly, the theme honored Sharon Gardner herself.
“She shopped all year long for decorations and gifts for the meeting,” Prince said.
The group’s impact extends back decades. In the 1960s, members organized and hosted the first Miss Haines City Pageant, continuing the tradition for many years. Over time, they have dedicated countless hours and resources to various local causes and organizations.
Now, with renewed purpose, the women of Legacy of Love look ahead to many more years of service, carrying forward the tradition of compassion and community that Sharon Gardner so thoughtfully began.
Grief Etiquette in the Digital Age: Why Timing Matters When Sharing Loss Online
In today’s fast-paced digital world, news of a death can spread within seconds—often before families have the chance to notify loved ones privately. Experts say this reality is prompting an important conversation about how people share condolences, tributes, and loss-related information on social media, especially during the winter months when grief can feel even more isolating.
“Grief etiquette is about putting the needs of the grieving family first, not our urge to say something publicly,” said Dr. Camelia L. Clarke, a spokesperson for the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) and a funeral director and grief educator with nearly 30 years of experience. “Just because information can be shared instantly doesn’t mean it should be.”
Social media has become a common space for expressing sympathy and remembering loved ones. However, experts warn that without careful thought, posts can unintentionally cause harm. Sharing information too soon can leave families feeling exposed and overwhelmed while they are still processing their loss.
Understanding when to post, what to say, and when to remain silent can make a meaningful difference for those grieving.
Grief etiquette refers to the unspoken guidelines for how individuals acknowledge death, loss, and mourning—particularly online. One of the most important principles, according to Clarke, is restraint.
“When a death is shared online too quickly, families can feel exposed and overwhelmed at a moment when they’re still processing the loss themselves,” she said. “Waiting is an act of compassion.”
Best Practices for Posting About Loss Online
As social media continues to play a role in modern mourning, grief professionals encourage users to pause before posting and consider a few key guidelines:
• Let the family lead. Don’t post about a death until the immediate family has made it public.
• Ask permission. Obtain consent before sharing photos, stories or tributes.
• Reach out privately first. A direct message, call or handwritten note can be more meaningful than a public comment.
• Avoid speculation. Don’t ask about or share details regarding the cause of death.
• Offer ongoing support. Grief extends far beyond the first days or weeks after a loss.
What to Say (and Avoid)
When expressing condolences online, experts recommend simplicity, sincerity and sensitivity. Messages that acknowledge loss without attempting to explain or minimize it are often the most supportive.
Helpful phrases include:
• “I’m sorry for your loss.”
• “Thinking of you and your family.”
• “I’m here if you want to talk or need anything.”
By contrast, well-meaning cliches can unintentionally cause harm. Phrases such as “They’re in a better place” or “Everything happens for a reason” may reflect the speaker’s beliefs, but they can feel dismissive to someone grieving.
“Grieving people don’t need answers — they need presence,” Clarke said. “Listening matters more than saying the perfect thing.”
Resources for Families and Friends
As digital spaces continue to shape how people communicate during life’s most difficult moments, experts agree empathy, patience and respect remain timeless.
“Grief is deeply personal,” Clarke said. “When we slow down and lead with compassion, we honor both the person who has died and those who are left to grieve.”
To learn more about how to support a grieving person and access free, expert-reviewed resources for navigating grief, expressing condolences and supporting loved ones before, during and after a loss, visit RememberingALife.com, an initiative of the NFDA
Put your civic pride on display and help keep Polk County looking its best by signing up for Keep Polk County Beautiful Inc.’s Great American CleanUp in Bartow on Saturday, April 25 from 8 a.m. to noon.
Hosted by the City of Bartow and Keep Polk County Beautiful, Inc., this community-wide effort invites residents to roll up their sleeves and make a difference right here at home.
Everyone wants to live and play in a clean and green community — and it’s up to all of us to make it happen. Community and civic associations, school and youth groups, families, friends, hunting and fishing clubs, conservation organizations, business employees, sports teams and more are encouraged to organize their members and participate.
What Participants Receive
Volunteers will enjoy:
Lunch provided after the event at Mary Holland Park Service hours for students A Guy Harvey original t-shirt for everyone who pre-registers A ticket to Bok Tower Gardens
It’s a win for the community — and a win for volunteers, too.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, April 25 Time: 8 a.m. – Noon Location: 2060 E. Highway 60, Bartow
To register, request a packet by emailing [email protected] or pick one up at 2060 E. Highway 60. For questions, call 863-534-0181.
Grab your friends, coworkers, or teammates and be part of the effort to keep Polk County beautiful!
Families in Dundee are invited to celebrate the season at a festive Easter Egg Hunt hosted by the Town of Dundee in partnership with Church on the Hill.
The event will take place on Saturday, April 4th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 1111 Scenic Highway in Dundee. Organizers promise a fun-filled day for the whole family, featuring 15,000 eggs ready to be collected.
In addition to the egg hunt, attendees can enjoy a variety of activities including snacks, carnival games, and a bounce house. There will also be opportunities for photos with the Easter Bunny, making it a memorable outing for children and families alike.
The community event is free to attend and aims to bring residents together for a day of springtime fun and celebration.
Ridge Community High School is inviting the community out for a fun-filled day as it hosts the first annual Sunny Bolts Market on Saturday, March 28.
Organized by the school’s Civics Leadership Academy, the weekend market promises something for everyone — from food and shopping to family-friendly activities and seasonal fun.
Guests can enjoy a variety of food trucks serving up delicious eats from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., along with local businesses, student clubs, books, games, and more set up throughout the event.
One of the biggest highlights of the day will be three Easter egg hunts, giving kids multiple chances to join in on the excitement.
The event will take place at:
📍 500 Orchid Drive, Davenport, FL 33837
Families, students, and community members are all encouraged to attend and support this new tradition at Ridge Community High School.
With plenty of activities, shopping, and festive fun, the Sunny Bolts Market is shaping up to be a can’t-miss community celebration.
With broken hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Hunter Lee Wright, lovingly known as “Nunner,” who left this world far too soon on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at just 18 years old.
Born on December 9, 2007, in Lakeland, Florida, Hunter was a bright light in the lives of all who knew him. He was only one month away from graduating, standing on the threshold of a promising future filled with dreams, purpose, and endless possibilities. Though his time here was brief, his impact was immeasurable.
Hunter was known for his vibrant spirit, kind heart, and unwavering faith. He had a deep love for Jesus and a passion for sharing that love with others. Whether through conversations, friendships, or the Bible studies he led with his friends, Hunter’s faith was a guiding force in his life and an inspiration to those around him.
He attended Lake Wales High School, where he proudly played lacrosse. A hardworking and determined young man, Hunter took great pride in earning and saving enough money from his job at Freddy’s restaurant to purchase his very first vehicle—a milestone he cherished deeply.
Hunter found joy in the simple and meaningful moments of life. He loved fishing whenever he had the chance, finding peace and happiness in nature. He was also eagerly anticipating becoming an uncle to baby Ezmae Ann, who will soon enter this world—a role he was so excited to embrace.
At home, Hunter shared a special bond with his beloved family dog, Riley (“Ry Ry”), who followed him everywhere and rarely left his side, even sleeping in his bed. Their companionship was a reflection of Hunter’s gentle and loving nature.
Hunter is deeply loved and will be forever missed by his father, Benjamin Wright; his mother, Rhonda Gibson; and his stepfather, Brandon Gibson. He leaves behind his cherished siblings: Baia Wright (16), Gracelyn Gibson (15), Benjamin Wright (14), Aria Wright (11), and Brantley Gibson (6), all of whom adored him.
He is also survived by his grandparents, Felicia and Kenny Gregory, and Rhonda and Bobby Wright, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, laughter, and faith.
Though we grieve deeply, we hold onto the promise found in Scripture:
“The pain you feel now cannot compare to the joy that has yet to come.”
— Romans 8:18
Hunter’s life, though short, was filled with purpose, love, and light. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy of faith will continue to shine.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Bartow Police Department are investigating a violent death that occurred late last night (March 26, 2026) in Bartow.
The victim has been identified as 56-year-old Jeffrey Lee Blevins.
According to investigators, the incident happened shortly after 11:00 p.m. on North Wilson Avenue. Blevins was reportedly outside his apartment, where he lived with his sister, speaking on the phone with his mother at the time.
While on the call, his mother suddenly heard him fall to the ground. After calling out to him and receiving no response, she ended the call and contacted her daughter, asking her to check on him out of concern that he had fallen.
When Blevins’ sister went outside, she discovered him lying in a pool of blood and immediately called the Bartow Police Department. Officers arrived within two minutes, along with emergency medical services. Life-saving measures were performed at the scene before Blevins was transported to Bartow Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at approximately 11:55 p.m.
Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker stated that officers found Blevins unresponsive and that the death appeared to be violent in nature.
Sheriff Grady Judd and Chief Walker are continuing to provide details as the investigation progresses. Authorities say more information will be released as it becomes available.
We reached out to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer, who advised that additional information will likely not be provided today.
Notice is hereby given that Lake Wales Storage intends to sell the property described below to enforce a lien under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Statutes (section 83.80-83.809). The owner will sell at public auction on or after April 8,2026 at 10:00 am at storageauctions.com
Units belonging to the following:
Andrew Chambers Unit 1105
This sale will be continued on such succeeding sale days thereafter as may be necessary to be completed. Unless otherwise noted units contain household items.
