As Winter Haven entered the1920s the U.S. Census listed the population at 1597 people - a small but motivated populace that had embarked on big projects like connecting the areas lakes by canals. Armed with “can do” optimism, they welcomed the “roaring twenties” with gusto. Winter Haven’s City Hall circa 1923. It was torn down in the late 1960s to make way for a Royal Castle restaurant. Currently Popeye’s location. NEW CITY HALL: In 1920, a bond issue was approved to build a

“Ignorance of each other is what has made unity impossible in the past. Therefore, we need enlightenment. We need more light about each other. Light creates understanding, understanding creates love, love creates patience, and patience creates unity.” — Malcolm X. The Historic Ritz Theatre will host “Malcolm X: The Musical” by Tommie Wofford on February 19. The show chronicles the life and times of minister, civil rights leader, and prolific speaker Malcolm X. “Set against t

Winter Haven’s historic Ritz Theatre will get an otherworldly dose of dream pop from Spirit and the Cosmic Heart later this month. The band is headlining a show at the Ritz on August 27 at 8 pm, joined by special guest Brett Staska. Spirit’s lineup of local bandmates includes Joshua Miller on guitar and vocals, Daniel Miller on bass, Ian Lopez on drums, Dallas Smith on keyboards and trumpet, and Melody Wells on guitar and vocals. Their sound is an intoxicating meld of synth a