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# The Citrus Tea News: The Citrus Tea News is a hyperlocal digital news publication covering all of Polk County, Florida.

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://thecitrustea.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [FDOT Road Work Hits Polk County the Week of July 26: Here’s What Might Affect Your Commute](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/07/24/fdot-road-work-hits-polk-county-the-week-of-july-26-heres-what-might-affect-your-commute/): FDOT has active road work, lane closures, and detours across Polk County for the week of July 26 through Aug. 1, 2026, including a full S.R. 60 closure west of Lake Wales and a public I-4 meeting in Haines City on July 28. Find your city here.
- [What’s on the Polk BOCC Agenda for Tuesday, July 7](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/07/06/polk-bocc-agenda-july-7-2026/): The July 7 agenda spans more than 60 items across construction contracts, public safety, appointments, land use, and public hearings. Multi-year contracts total more than $12 million, and a Kathleen Road intersection redesign is among the roads and drainage items on the agenda.
- [The Citrus Stand Collective Is Open](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/07/03/the-citrus-stand-collective-is-open/): This is the part of The Citrus Tea I love the most because it proves that local news isn't just the hard, serious stuff. It's also about community telling its own story in a thousand different ways, where most of them never get written down anywhere. And that's why we need you, because we can't do this job alone.
- [Lake Alfred Appoints a new Deputy City Manager; City Hall reopened](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/07/03/lake-alfred-appoints-a-new-deputy-city-manager-city-hall-reopened/): Linda Bourgeois promoted to Deputy City Manager as Lake Alfred City Hall reopens after renovations, ahead of its America250 monument dedication July 3rd.
- [BREAKING: Haines City Had Signed Written Letter of support for AI Data Center Developer Seven Months Before Public Knew](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/07/01/breaking-haines-city-had-signed-written-letter-of-support-for-ai-data-center-developer-seven-months-before-public-knew/): The letter stated, the city "looks forward to working with Cielo Digital Infrastructure to support the successful development of your data center campus in Haines City."
- [Dear Confetti: A Relationship & Advice Column](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/07/01/dear-confetti-a-relationship-advice-column-4/): We Swapped Snowboards for Sunshine, and We Need a New Hobby! — New to Polk and Ready to Play
- [Late Birthdays and Late Bloomers—How to Keep the Class of 2039 from Bombing Day One: Part 2](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/07/01/late-birthdays-and-late-bloomers-how-to-keep-the-class-of-2039-from-bombing-day-one-part-2/): (If you missed Part 1, catch it here: Toilet Paper, Zippers and Drop-Offs—How to Keep the Class of 2039 from Bombing Day One. We covered zippers, wiping, lunchboxes, and tear-free drop-offs. Now let’s tackle the two questions I get asked the absolute most once parents realize their kid is actually going to kindergarten.)
- [Blue’s Law Gains Powerful Ally as Lakeland Mom Meets With Grady Judd](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/25/blues-law-gains-powerful-ally-as-lakeland-mom-meets-with-grady-judd/): A Lakeland mother fighting to change Florida law after her son was killed in a motorcycle crash got a major boost Wednesday
- [Lake Wales Red Light Cameras Go Live Today on State Road 60](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/25/lake-wales-red-light-cameras-go-live-today-on-state-road-60/): Red light cameras are coming to State Road 60 in Lake Wales, and drivers have one month to get used to them before citations start arriving in the mail.
- [What’s on Your August Ballot? A Polk County Voter’s Guide to the 2026 Primary](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/24/whats-on-your-august-ballot-a-polk-county-voters-guide-to-the-2026-primary/): When Polk County voters head to the polls on August 18, not everyone will see the same ballot.
- [Can Your Boss Make You Work Through Election Day? What Florida Law Says](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/23/can-your-boss-make-you-work-through-election-day-what-florida-law-says/): The short answer may surprise you. Florida is one of a minority of states without a voting leave law...
- [Fort Meade Residents File Two Lawsuits to Block Stonebridge Data Center as Watchdogs Launch Recall Push](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/23/fort-meade-residents-file-two-lawsuits-to-block-stonebridge-data-center-as-watchdogs-launch-recall-push/): Fort Meade residents have taken their fight against the proposed Stonebridge data center to court, while a community opposition group is gathering signatures in a bid to recall three city commissioners.
- [Meet your Fort Meade City Commissioners](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/23/meet-your-fort-meade-city-commissioners/): That development is the Stonebridge data center, and on April 14 the five members of the Fort Meade City Commission voted unanimously to approve a 20-year development agreement for it. The Maryland company plans to build a hyperscale facility on a 1,300-acre former phosphate mine in northern Fort Meade, on a site that could eventually span 4.4 million square feet and rank among the largest projects of its kind in Florida. The vote followed more than two hours of public comment, nearly all of it from residents opposed to the project. For the many residents now exploring a recall effort and continuing to press their concerns, the first practical question is a simple one: who sits on the commission, and how do you reach them.
- [Lake Alfred Holds First Citizen’s Academy Graduation](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/23/lake-alfred-holds-first-citizens-academy-graduation/): Residents attended the weekly program on Thursday evenings to learn about how the City of Lake Alfred works, meet the staff and workers who keep the city running, and find new ways to get involved.
- [Mulberry City Commission Schedules Redistricting Forums, Budget Workshops This Summer](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/19/mulberry-city-commission-schedules-redistricting-forums-budget-workshops-this-summer/): Mulberry residents will have multiple opportunities this summer to weigh in on the city's future
- [Still Figuring out plans for America’s Biggest Birthday? Here’s what’s happening around polk County on 4th of july weekend.](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/18/still-figuring-out-plans-for-americas-biggest-birthday-heres-whats-happening-around-polk-county-on-4th-of-july-weekend/): America's 250th birthday calls for more than one night of celebration, and Polk County is delivering.
- [Polk County Lifts Burn Ban Just in Time for America’s 250th birthday](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/17/polk-county-lifts-burn-ban-just-in-time-for-americas-250th-birthday/): The timing matters for July 4 planning across the county. As The Citrus Tea reported June 11, this year's Independence Day marks America's 250th anniversary, and cities across Polk County had been counting on fireworks as a centerpiece of milestone events. Fort Meade City Manager Troy Bell had told commissioners that the city's annual July 3 celebration would be canceled if the ban had not lifted in time.
- [Florida Closes the Gap: Officer Jason Raynor Act Becomes Law](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/16/florida-closes-the-gap-officer-jason-raynor-act-becomes-law/): Prosecutors charged Wallace with first-degree murder and sought the death penalty. After a week of emotional testimony and 11 hours of deliberation, a Clay County jury found him guilty of manslaughter — not murder. He was sentenced to 30 years in prison, the maximum allowed under Florida law for that charge.
- [Rabid Cat Attack in Lakeland Puts Spotlight on Polk County’s Stray Population Crisis](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/16/rabid-cat-attack-in-lakeland-puts-spotlight-on-polk-countys-stray-population-crisis/): Local animal welfare advocates continue pushing Polk County to address its stray cat population.
- [A Gainesville Mother Has Been Fighting for Two Years for Clayton’s Law to require drug testing for all fatality accidents in Florida](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/12/a-gainesville-mother-has-been-fighting-for-two-years-for-claytons-law-to-require-drug-testing-for-all-fatality-accidents-in-florida/): Kelli Boyd's son, Clayton, was killed in a crash. The driver was never tested. She's trying to make sure it never happens to another family.
- [Zero Citizens Initiatives on the November ballot. How Florida made it Harder For Voters to Push Bills Forward.](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/12/zero-citizens-initiatives-on-the-november-ballot-how-florida-made-it-harder-for-voters-to-push-bills-forward/): In 2026, for what appears to be the first time in decades, not a single citizen-driven measure will appear on the November ballot.
- [Frostproof Fire Fee Increases; Advances Septic-to-Sewer Work; Ramon Theater gala scheduled for November 7](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/12/frostproof-fire-fee-increases-advances-septic-to-sewer-work-ramon-theater-gala-scheduled-for-november-7/): Frostproof - Fire Fee Increases and other City Commission updates
- [Fort Meade’s Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Faces Critical Failures, with an estimated price tag of $40M](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/06/10/fort-meades-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-faces-critical-failures/): "Without replacement we will continue to have leaks on both the water and sewer sides, along with poor treatment, if we don't invest in our system." - City Manager Troy Bell
- [Our Origin Story: Why Polk County (All of it) Deserves Its Own Voice](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/05/24/our-origin-story/): With nearly a million residents, there are no Locally-Owned, comprehensive, independent, county-wide news outlets in Polk County. That should bother all of us.”
- [Sheriff Grady Judd Defends Flock Cameras As State Orders Them Off Florida Highways](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/09/03/polk-county-sheriff-flock-cameras-state-ban/): Grady Judd will remove Flock cameras from state highways but Polk County will keep the rest in operation, weeks after a Haines City officer was charged with misusing the system.
- [Public Notice 8/26/2026](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/09/02/public-notice-8-26-2026/): Original notice: https://www.newschief.com/public-notices/notice/2026/08/26/in-the-circuit-court-for-polk-county-2026-08-26-news-chief-florida-1a03dec4ac3
- [Yes, Haines City Has a Theater, and They Are Saving You a Seat](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/09/02/yes-haines-city-has-a-theater-and-they-are-saving-you-a-seat/): "Just yell at us," they said, "but don't throw tomatoes!" I went to the Haines City Theatre's (HCT) public board meeting and open house this summer, where the board sat onstage and invited the audience to ask them anything. No hands or microphone, no formality, and definitely no boring.
- [Daily Devotional: Community & Fellowship, Iron Sharpens Iron](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/09/02/daily-devotional-community-fellowship-iron-sharpens-iron/): Real friendship isn't always comfortable. This devotional explores Proverbs' image of iron sharpening iron, and asks who in your life has permission to tell you the truth you need to hear.
- [Face of Bartow Changing](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/09/01/face-of-bartow-changing/): From the rebuild of Sonny's BBQ after a devastating fire to a new $3.4M Innovation Center downtown, Bartow is in the middle of a wave of change. Here's a look at the projects reshaping the city.
- [Haines City Farmers Market](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/09/01/haines-city-farmers-market-opening-day/): Haines City has a brand-new market starting in September, set up at 502 E Main St from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- [Daily Devotional:  Community & Fellowship, One Body, Many Parts](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/09/01/daily-devotional-community-fellowship-one-body-many-parts/): There's a quiet lie many of us carry into community: that our absence wouldn't really be noticed. This devotional closes the Better Together series with Paul's image of the body, every part necessary, every gift irreplaceable, and an invitation to finally take your place.
- [Auburndale’s Robert “Honey Pop” Taylor, the Last Living Survivor of the USS Yorktown turns 102](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/31/auburndales-robert-honey-pop-taylor-the-last-living-survivor-of-the-uss-yorktown-turns-102/): He gave his life jacket to a man who couldn't swim, then caught a rescue line with his left big toe. In those minutes, Robert "Honey Pop" Taylor made a promise to God he has kept for 84 years. On Monday, the last living survivor of the USS Yorktown turned 102 in Auburndale.
- [Daily Devotional: Healing & Wholeness, The Wounds We Hide](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/31/daily-devotional-healing-wholeness-the-wounds-we-hide/): Most of us are better at hiding our wounds than healing them. This devotional opens a new series on healing and wholeness with an honest look at what it costs to keep pretending we're fine, and what it takes to finally bring our wounds into the open.
- [DeSantis administration moving to regulate AI from pre-K to Ph.D.](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/30/desantis-administration-moving-to-regulate-ai-from-pre-k-to-ph-d/): The Florida Board of Education, which oversees preK-12 and the Florida College System, has a vote scheduled to direct K-12 public and charter schools and colleges to regulate AI use.
- [Joseph’s Thoughts: Dietrich Bonhoeffer Resisting Hitler — Cheap Grace Fails in Costly Times](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/28/josephs-thoughts-dietrich-bonhoeffer-resisting-hitler-cheap-grace-fails-in-costly-times/): Dietrich Bonhoeffer reminds us that grace is free, but following Jesus is not cheap. In comfortable times, cheap grace may sound acceptable. But in costly times, only a surrendered faith will stand. Real grace does not make us passive. Real grace gives us courage to obey, courage to speak, and courage to follow Christ no matter the cost.
- [Polk County Road Work Report: Aug. 29 Through Sept. 4 from The Citrus Tea News](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/28/polk-county-road-work-report-aug-29-through-sept-4-from-the-citrus-tea-news/): Drivers across Polk County face a heavy week of overnight lane closures, an ongoing 60-day detour at the I-4 and State Road 33 interchange in Lakeland, and a new closed median opening on U.S. 98 in Bartow that is expected to stay in place for about four months.
- [Bartow Officials Warn Amendment 3 Could Cost the City $5 Million a Year](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/27/bartow-officials-warn-amendment-3-could-cost-the-city-5-million-a-year/): An estimated 20 to 25 people, in a room set up to accommodate 100, attended the Aug. 25 public meeting at the Bartow Civic Center to hear, learn about, and comment on the city's stance on the proposed Amendment 3. It was the first of three public meetings.
- [Daily Devotional: Worry & Fear, Worry and the Sparrows](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/27/daily-devotional-worry-fear-worry-and-the-sparrows/): DO NOT BE AFRAID
- [Polk County Property Tax Increase Would Raise Teacher Pay to Keep Staff](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/26/polk-county-property-tax-increase-would-raise-teacher-pay-to-keep-staff/): Supporters of a proposed 1.0-mill property tax for Polk County Public Schools made their public case Tuesday at the Lake Eva Event Center in Haines City, launching a campaign that will ask voters in November to raise their property taxes to pay teachers more.
- [Polk County School Board Votes to Keep “Thirteen Reasons Why” and “Check & Mate” in High School Library](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/26/polk-county-school-board-votes-to-keep-thirteen-reasons-why-and-check-mate-in-high-school-library/): The Polk County School Board voted Tuesday to keep two challenged young adult novels in a district high school library, ending a review that began at the school level and moved through two committees before reaching the board.
- [Daily Devotional: Worry & Fear, The Worry We Carry](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/26/daily-devotional-worry-fear-the-worry-we-carry/): DO NOT BE AFRAID
- [Byron Donalds Names Running Mate, Completing Both Tickets in Florida’s Governor Race](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/25/byron-donalds-names-running-mate-completing-both-tickets-in-floridas-governor-race/): Byron Donalds named Bryan Avila his lieutenant governor pick Tuesday. Weeks earlier in Lakeland, he told The Citrus Tea News that Amendment 3 is in the hands of the voters.
- [“I won’t stop until something’s done”: Dauphne’s Hair Salon owner resolved to find a fix at Eagle Lake intersection](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/25/i-wont-stop-until-somethings-done-dauphnes-hair-salon-owner-resolved-to-finding-a-fix-at-eagle-lake-intersection/): On Aug. 19, the latest collision occurred right in front of Daphne's Hair Salon. It took the life of Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) volunteer chaplain Hector Cruz.
- [Polk County Clerk’s Unclaimed Funds Deadline Is Sept. 1. See if You Are on the List](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/25/polk-county-clerks-unclaimed-funds-deadline-is-sept-1-see-if-you-are-on-the-list/): The Polk County Clerk is holding $85,677.37 in unclaimed court-related funds for 154 people and businesses. Claims must be filed by Sept. 1 or the money will be forfeited.
- [Daily Devotional: Community & Fellowship, The Table](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/25/daily-devotional-community-fellowship-the-table/): BETTER TOGETHER
- [Miss Eternity Crowns Two Delegates in Lakeland Pageant](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/24/miss-eternity-crowns-two-delegates-in-lakeland-pageant/): Nikki Victorious was crowned Miss Eternity 2026 on Aug. 8 at Victory Church. Diana Dagis was crowned in the Legacy division for women 50 and older at the first pageant staged by the Lakeland-based Christian mentorship program that focused on character, leadership, and faith.
- [Daily Devotional: Community & Fellowship, The Art of Showing Up](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/24/daily-devotional-community-fellowship-the-art-of-showing-up/): BETTER TOGETHER
- [Daily Devotional: The Holy Spirit, He Speaks](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/23/daily-devotional-the-holy-spirit-he-speaks/): A quiet nudge to call someone, to turn around, to say something unplanned. This devotional explores how the Holy Spirit speaks, often quietly, and what it means to actually listen and respond.
- [Daily Devotional: The Holy Spirit, The Fruit That Grows Slowly](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/22/daily-devotional-the-holy-spirit-the-fruit-that-grows-slowly/): Love, joy, peace, patience, they read like a checklist of things we fall short of. This devotional explores why Paul calls them fruit, not achievements, and what it means to stay in the conditions where they can grow.
- [Friday Night Lights Are Back On In Polk County for Varsity High School Football](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/21/friday-night-lights-are-back-on-in-polk-county-for-varsity-high-school-football/): Polk County football opens the 2026 regular season tonight with 14 games involving local teams.
- [Joseph’s Thoughts: Anything is Possible](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/21/josephs-thoughts-anything-is-possible/): A mediocre team beat an undefeated one, 6 to 4, not through talent but through discipline and patience. This reflection explores what that game reveals about trusting God's plan when the odds look impossible.
- [Daily Devotional: The Holy Spirit, You Are Not Doing This Alone](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/20/daily-devotional-the-holy-spirit-you-are-not-doing-this-alone-3/): There is a particular exhaustion in trying to be patient, forgiving, and faithful entirely on your own strength. This devotional explores what it means to live in partnership with the Holy Spirit instead of straining through alone.
- [Polk County Fire Rescue Volunteer Chaplain Hector Cruz Killed in Eagle Lake Crash](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/19/polk-county-fire-rescue-volunteer-chaplain-hector-cruz-killed-in-eagle-lake-crash/): A Polk County Fire Rescue volunteer chaplain died Wednesday after his vehicle was struck by a dump truck at a U.S. 17 intersection in Eagle Lake while he was driving between fire stations to check on crews.
- [Donalds, Jolly emerge from primaries](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/19/donalds-jolly-emerge-from-primaries-florida-phoenix/): Florida voters will pick either U.S. Byron Donalds or former Rep. David Jolly as the state’s next governor after both men won their primaries Tuesday...The result was somewhat predictable, but the primary ended the early part of a campaign season that has been punctuated by some unusual side stories.
- [Fort Meade Recall Update: Two Petitions Certified, McCutchen Falls 60 Signatures Short](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/19/fort-meade-recall-petition-certified-williams-taylor-mccutchen/): Two of three Fort Meade recall petitions were certified August 14 by the Polk County Supervisor of Elections. Mayor Jaret Landon Williams and Commissioner Matthew Taylor cleared their thresholds. Vice Mayor Petrina McCutchen fell 60 signatures short of the 100 needed in her district. Recall Committee Chair Michael Bennett told The Citrus Tea a second attempt on McCutchen's seat is planned.
- [Daily Devotional: The Word of God, People of the Book](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/19/daily-devotional-the-word-of-god-people-of-the-book-2/): The Word of God has always traveled through people, a verse from a grandparent, a text from a friend at the right moment. This devotional explores what it means to let Scripture flow outward to someone who needs it.
- [Polk County 2026 Primary Election Results: Wilson Edges Quinn and a School Board Race Heads to November](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/19/polk-county-2026-primary-election-results-wilson-edges-quinn-and-a-school-board-race-heads-to-november/): Unofficial 2026 August Primary results are in for Polk County. The Citrus Tea News breaks it down.
- [Eagle Lake Commissioner Resigns After Casting Lone Vote Against Forensic Audit](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/18/eagle-lake-commissioner-resigns-after-casting-lone-vote-against-forensic-audit/): Eagle Lake City Commissioner Steve Williams announced his resignation at the close of Monday's meeting, the same night he cast the only vote against a forensic audit of city finances covering 2021 through 2026.
- [Bartow Commissioners vote to do evaluations](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/18/bartow-commissioners-vote-to-do-evaluations/): Bartow commissioners unanimously agreed to conduct city official evaluations this fiscal year, approved a $100,000 kitchen upgrade at Mulligan's Restaurant, and recognized local lineworkers for their service.
- [Bartow City Commissioners review proposed property tax package](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/18/bartow-city-commissioners-review-proposed-property-tax-package/): Bartow could lose up to $5.08 million in city revenue if Amendment 3 passes, city officials say, with three public meetings planned to explain the impact and possible tradeoffs to residents.
- [You are Something](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/18/sam-neelam-polk-county-school-board-district-5/): This is a paid political advertisement, paid for and approved by Sam Neelam, for Polk County School Board, District 5. You are Something: The true story of Sam Neelam overcoming incredible odds to live the American dream.
- [Daily Devotional: The Word of God: The Word That Does Not Return Empty](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/18/daily-devotional-livingdaily-devotional-the-word-of-god-the-word-that-does-not-return-empty-word-9/): Praying the same verses over the same unresolved situation for years is a real and painful place to be. This devotional explores God's promise that His Word never returns empty, even when the results are slow to appear.
- [Jay Collins Names Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie as Running Mate](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/17/jay-collins-names-emergency-management-director-kevin-guthrie-as-running-mate/): PALM HARBOR, Fla. — Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins evening at Crabby Bill's in Palm Harbor, one day before Republican voters choose the party's nominee for governor.
- [Only Two Florida Governor Candidates Have Named a Running Mate](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/17/only-two-florida-governor-candidates-have-named-a-running-mate/): Florida voters head to the polls Tuesday to pick nominees for governor, and most of the people on the ballot still have not said who would serve alongside them.
- [Almost 400,000 Polk County Voters have yet to cast a ballot ahead of election day](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/17/almost-400000-polk-county-voters-have-yet-to-cast-a-ballot-ahead-of-election-day/): As of Monday morning, less than 44,000 registered voters cast a ballot during early voting or by mail in ballot, leaving over 400,000 that will determine key races. Election Day is Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
- [Daily Devotional: The Holy Spirit, You Are Not Doing This Alone](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/17/daily-devotional-the-holy-spirit-you-are-not-doing-this-alone-2/): There is a particular exhaustion in trying to be patient, forgiving, and faithful entirely on your own strength. This devotional explores what it means to live in partnership with the Holy Spirit instead of straining through alone.
- [Sinkhole Depression Closes Rose Street And Lake Parker Avenue Intersection In Lakeland](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/16/sinkhole-depression-closes-rose-street-and-lake-parker-avenue-intersection-in-lakeland/): A sink hole developed in Lakeland at Parker Avenue and Rose Street on Sunday. The road has been shut down as FDOT workers repair the road depression.
- [Lakeland Police Station Closed After Citizen Brings In Suspected Hand Grenade](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/16/lakeland-police-station-closed-after-citizen-brings-in-suspected-hand-grenade/): Update: This story has been updated to reflect the reopening of the police department and surrounding road. The Lakeland Police Department headquarters is closed this afternoon and a perimeter is in place after a resident walked in with a box containing what they believed to be an old hand grenade.
- [Cell Phones Aren’t the Only Thing Banned in Polk County Schools This Year](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/15/cell-phones-arent-the-only-thing-banned-in-polk-county-schools-this-year/): Polk County students who show up wearing smart glasses this school year will be confiscated, and the student won't be the one getting them back after school.
- [Local News Weekend Roundup for Friday August 14: Heat, Water Skis, and One more Day to Vote Early](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/14/local-news-weekend-roundup-for-friday-august-14-heat-water-skis-and-one-more-day-to-vote-early/): Listen up, Polk County! It's hot. Like, heat advisory hot. And tomorrow is your last chance to vote early, which means bring your water and join me at Silver Lake In Winter Haven tomorrow for a free show.
- [Joseph’s Thoughts: Lou Gehrig’s Farewell Speech – Gratitude Can Speak Through Suffering](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/14/josephs-thoughts-lou-gehrigs-farewell-speech-gratitude-can-speak-through-suffering/): Facing a devastating diagnosis, Lou Gehrig stood before Yankee Stadium and called himself the luckiest man alive. This reflection explores what his words teach us about gratitude that rises from suffering, not despite it.
- [Polk County News Roundup for Thursday, August 13, 2026](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/13/polk-county-news-roundup-for-thursday-august-13-2026/): Candidates gathered at Sun 'n Fun before Tuesday's primary, a Haines City arrest triggered a school lockdown, and early voting ends Saturday in Polk County.
- [Daily Devotional: The Word of God: Nourished, Not Just Informed](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/13/daily-devotional-the-word-of-god-nourished-not-just-informed/): Jesus reached for Scripture when He was genuinely hungry, not to win an argument, but to be fed. This devotional explores what it means to approach the Word as nourishment, not just information.
- [Residents Celebrate as Roof Repairs Begin on Reopened Eagle Lake Schoolhouse](https://thecitrustea.com/2026/08/12/residents-celebrate-as-roof-repairs-begin-on-reopened-eagle-lake-schoolhouse/): Roof repairs began Wednesday on the historic Eagle Lake Schoolhouse, just nine days after the city commission voted to rescind the bid approvals and demolition of the hundred-year-old red brick building. The historical society hosted its first event in the building, welcoming residents ahead of the new school year.

## Pages
- [Standards, Policies & Ethics](https://thecitrustea.com/ethics/): Our Commitment to You: We started The Citrus Tea News because Polk County deserves a news outlet that cares about this community as much as its residents do. Our mission is to provide honest, unbiased, local news that matters to the residents of Polk County, Florida. These standards are how we keep that promise to you.
- [Taco Showdown (test)](https://thecitrustea.com/taco-showdown-test/): VS
- [Calendar Test](https://thecitrustea.com/calendar-test/)
- [Contests](https://thecitrustea.com/contests/)
- [Advertise](https://thecitrustea.com/advertise/): We built The Citrus Tea News to tell the stories that matter to the people of Polk County — and we want the businesses that support us to be proud of what they're a part of.
- [Subscribe](https://thecitrustea.com/subscribe/): Welcome to The Citrus Tea News: Polk County, Florida’s newest locally-owned, independent, comprehensive news outlet, covering ALL of Polk County. Did we also mention that it's 100% FREE to readers? Once you read our Origin Story, we think you’ll agree that it’s about time our area got truly local coverage that doesn’t depend on social media apps or the giant cities that only feature our breaking news. Truth is, they don’t understand what makes living here so absolutely incredible…so much so that we continue to be one of the fastest-growing counties in the entire United States for the last 5 years and counting. Like what you see here? Be sure to subscribe for breaking news and our weekly e-newsletter for all the latest news from right here in the Heartland! Follow us on Facebook for daily updates. The Citrus Tea News: Truly Local News. Truly Polk County. 
- [Blog](https://thecitrustea.com/blog/)
- [Contact Us](https://thecitrustea.com/contact/): Got a story worth telling? Whether you've spotted something happening in your neighborhood, want to shine a light on a local business, or have a tip on breaking news that matters to all of us — we want to hear from you. Are you a writer, a foodie, or just someone who loves Polk County, FL, and has something to say? We're always looking for passionate contributors to join The Citrus Tea News family. Pull up a chair and send us a message.
- [About Us](https://thecitrustea.com/about/): Welcome to The Citrus Tea News, Polk County, Florida’s newest locally-owned, independent, comprehensive news outlet, covering ALL of Polk County. Did we also mention that its 100% FREE to readers? Once you read our Origin Story, we think you’ll agree that it’s about time our area got truly local coverage that doesn’t depend on social media apps or the giant cities that only feature our breaking news. Truth is, they don’t understand what makes living here so absolutely incredible…so much so, that we continue to be the largest growing county in the entire United States for the last 5 years and counting. Like what you see here? Be sure to subscribe to our Daily Cup of Tea for all the latest news from right here in the Heartland!
- [The Citrus Tea News | Truly Local News. Truly Polk County.](https://thecitrustea.com/): Get the latest right to your inbox.

## Pattern Library
- [Meet the Team](https://thecitrustea.com/cloud/meet-the-team/): Because all of Polk County deserves real local news.
- [Sam Romain](https://thecitrustea.com/cloud/sam-romain/): Sam Romain is Chairman of Americans for Energy Dominance and Chairman of the Polk County Republican Executive Committee. A North Lakeland resident, he appears regularly on Fox News and Fox Business on energy policy and grid reliability. You can find him at X.com/SamRomain

## Restaurants
- [Monita’s Tacos](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/monitas-tacos/)
- [Tacos My Friend](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/tacos-my-friend/)
- [Taqueria El Burrito](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/taqueria-el-burrito/)
- [Frost Bites Italian Ice lLC](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/frost-bites-italian-ice-llc/): +1 863-781-9553; Frost Bites Italian Ice
- [Awilda’s Food Stop](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/awildas-food-stop/)
- [Taco Bell](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/taco-bell-9/)
- [Wow Bao – Winter Haven](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/wow-bao-winter-haven/)
- [Einstein Bros. Bagels](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/einstein-bros-bagels/)
- [Taquería Mexicana El Chinito](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/taqueria-mexicana-el-chinito/)
- [Yummy Yummy’s Sweets](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/yummy-yummys-sweets/)
- [Veterans Barbecue](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/veterans-barbecue/)
- [AJ Slammers](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/aj-slammers/)
- [MAHA’S BOWL OF RICE](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/mahas-bowl-of-rice/)
- [D’Vibe Nutrition Herbalife](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/dvibe-nutrition-herbalife/)
- [Chamba’s Hometown Café](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/chambas-hometown-cafe/)
- [Ike’s Eats & Treats](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/ikes-eats-treats/)
- [Crave Mis Antojitos](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/crave-mis-antojitos/)
- [Chicken Wings & Tenders](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/chicken-wings-tenders/)
- [Sabrosuras Riqueñas](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/sabrosuras-riquenas/)
- [P&J Recreation](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/pj-recreation/)
- [Ovation Bistro & Bar, Lakeland](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/ovation-bistro-bar-lakeland/)
- [Cchip](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/cchip/)
- [Mr. Taco](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/mr-taco/)
- [Sonny’s BBQ](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/sonnys-bbq-4/)
- [La Perla Restaurant](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/la-perla-restaurant/)
- [Subway](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/subway-15/)
- [Drip Jar Cafe](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/drip-jar-cafe/)
- [El Preferido Latin Food](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/el-preferido-latin-food/)
- [AFC Liquor & Lounge](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/afc-liquor-lounge/)
- [Thai Chilli Pepper Lakeland](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/thai-chilli-pepper-lakeland/)
- [Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ Lakeland, FL](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/crave-hot-dogs-bbq-lakeland-fl/)
- [Sombrero hat](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/sombrero-hat/)
- [Pizza Town](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/pizza-town/)
- [The Spot Jamaican Restaurant Lounge Bar & Motel](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/the-spot-jamaican-restaurant-lounge-bar-motel/)
- [Panera Bread](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/panera-bread-3/)
- [Domino’s Pizza](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/dominos-pizza-8/)
- [McDonald’s](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/mcdonalds-18/)
- [Tijuana Flats](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/tijuana-flats-2/)
- [La Criolla Cafe and Bakery](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/la-criolla-cafe-and-bakery/)
- [Juicy Wing & Seafood](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/juicy-wing-seafood/)
- [Panda Express](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/panda-express-2/)
- [Trabajo de lidia](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/trabajo-de-lidia/)
- [Bricks Family Restaurant](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/bricks-family-restaurant/)
- [MrBeast Burger](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/mrbeast-burger-2/)
- [Jac’s Corner](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/jacs-corner/)
- [MJ’s Pizza & Wings](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/mjs-pizza-wings/)
- [Office Pub & Lounge](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/office-pub-lounge/)
- [Brothers N.Y. Style Pizzeria](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/brothers-n-y-style-pizzeria/)
- [El Taco Loco](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/el-taco-loco/)
- [Checkers](https://thecitrustea.com/dining/checkers-4/)