Well, I’m glad you asked!

Last Saturday, Florida Southern College celebrated the future home of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Tourism and Education Center, which will be located at the northeast corner of Johnson Avenue and McDonald Street. The Tourism and Education Center will be built using plans for a Usonian house that Mr. Wright designed as part of the campus master plan. Wright designed 18 structures for the campus, 12 of which were built over two decades from 1939 to 1958.

The Tourism and Education Center will provide a dedicated space for an introductory film on the history of  Wright’s career and 20-year relationship with Florida Southern College; a gift shop with a full inventory of Frank Lloyd Wright-related books, apparel, and souvenirs; a tourism kiosk with information on other Polk County attractions; exhibitions and conferences; and self-guided and docent-led walking tours.

Among Wright’s plans left on the drawing board was a Usonian house design meant to serve as economical faculty housing. Designed to control costs, Mr. Wright’s Usonian houses – which he intended to be built in a distinctly American style that was affordable for the middle class – had no attics, no basements, and little ornamentation. “Usonian” is an acronym for United States of North America. Keep checking back here and we will keep you updated on the progress of the building and when it will be ready to start welcoming visitors to the largest one-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world.

Mark your calendar now for October 2011 because that is when LEGOLAND Florida is set to debut in Winter Haven. The announcement was formally made just minutes ago at Cypress Gardens, the new home of LEGOLAND. All in all, Merlin Entertainments Group plans to invest $300 million in the park over the next few years, including in time adding accommodations and other smaller attractions–possibly one of their Sea Life aquariums.

Make sure you continue to check back here (and add us to your RSS feed if you have not already) to get the latest news AND photos as the construction begins and Cypress Gardens is transformed into LEGOLAND Florida. We will have exclusive access to the site as it is transformed and will post updates regularly.

While we are never big on posting entire press releases on here, this is straight from us and some great quotes and details on the big news:

A press conference today attended by a host of elected officials, including Governor Charlie Crist and U.S. Representative Adam Putnam, confirmed that Cypress Gardens has been purchased by Merlin Entertainments – the second largest attractions industry company in the world and also owner of LEGOLAND Parks worldwide.  Members of the media and invited guests gathered at Florida’s first theme park – Cypress Gardens – to unveil the plan to continue the park’s legacy of attracting a multitude of visitors to Polk County.  The new park will be named LEGOLAND Florida. 
“I am delighted to be here today to announce what I believe will be one of the most exciting and important projects in which Merlin Entertainments has ever been involved,” said Nick Varney, chief executive officer for Merlin Entertainments. Merlin Entertainments introduced LEGOLAND Florida to a spellbound audience who received oranges made of legos.  “The development of a LEGOLAND Park in Florida is a perfect opportunity for us here in the heart of what is the biggest family tourist centre in the world – and I believe it will bring a unique new experience to Florida,” said Varney. 

LEGOLAND Florida will be Merlin Entertainments thirteenth attraction in the United States, with four more in the development phase.  LEGOLAND Florida will be the fifth LEGOLAND Park worldwide and the only one on the East Coast – with the others in California, Denmark, England and Germany.  “LEGOLAND is an extraordinary concept – specifically developed for children between the ages of 2 and 12 and their moms and dads, of course,” said Varney.  LEGOLAND offers families spectacular rides, shows and even model building challenges.
Merlin Entertainments is the second largest attraction company in the world, second only to the Walt Disney Company.  LEGOLAND California is the fastest growing theme park in the United States, realizing a 6 percent growth in visitation in 2009.  The park was also recognized by Amusement Today as the country’s best theme park for children for the sixth consecutive year.
The partnership between Merlin Entertainments and Polk County Tourism and Sports Marketing had a major impact as the final site for LEGOLAND Florida was selected.  The Polk County Board of County Commissioners’ (BoCC) support for Polk County’s tourism industry was evidenced by a “can do” attitude and spirit of cooperation to partner with Merlin Entertainment Group to take their vision, as well as Polk County tourism, to new heights.  The BoCC’s commitment to tourism, and more specifically the historic site of Cypress Gardens, has been strong throughout the years.  They purchased Cypress Gardens’ original 30 acres in 2003 and continued an ongoing investment through sales and marketing support.  “We are looking forward to working with Merlin Entertainments.  Their record speaks for itself.  Their exciting plans for the site, the jobs LEGOLAND Florida will create and their commitment to Polk County is something my colleagues at both the local and state level really welcome,” said Bob English, chairman of the Polk County Board of County Commissioners.
 Additionally, during the press conference, Governor Crist and a host of legislators offered their support in the building of LEGOLAND Florida.  “We are extremely happy that the future of Cypress Gardens is secure.  LEGOLAND is one of the most exciting names in family attractions and a welcome new addition to Florida,” said Governor Crist. 

 “This is a huge success story for Polk County that will have a significant impact on Polk County as a tourism destination.  LEGOLAND Florida and its connection to Merlin Entertainments provide worldwide visibility for Polk County,” said Mark Jackson, director of Polk County Tourism and Sports Marketing.  Polk County Tourism and Sports Marketing has already begun working with Merlin Entertainments on a cooperative partnership that will help promote the park and the tourism industry in Polk County.
In addition to the impact the park will have on Polk County’s tourism industry, the effect on economic development in the area will also get a massive boost. With the announcement from Merlin Entertainments, an international company, one of the Central Florida Development Council’s goals is closer to fruition. “We have been working with the international community for quite some time and today’s announcement reinforces Polk County’s commitment to international companies,” said Central Florida Development Council Director Tom Patton. “This news will certainly bring more awareness to Polk County and shows that we are a destination for international-oriented companies and investment.”

If you missed it last weekend, Frostproof  will have a “Last Chance Viewing” of the Festival of Trees, in the Ramon Theater this weekend on Sunday, December 13th between 2pm and 4pm.  If you haven’t had a chance to see these spectacularly decorated trees or if you know someone that hasn’t viewed the trees be sure to attend this last viewing.  Also, Frostproof will welcome the big, jolly man himself as they have Pictures with Santa this Saturday, December 12th in the Ramon Theater.  Kids pictures will be between 10am and noon and Pet pictures will be between 2pm and 4pm.  Cost of a 5X7 picture is $5. 

The Ramon Theater will also serve as the backdrop for a great way to spend New Years Eve. This New Years Eve there will be a murder mystery – “Murder Plays A Sour Note” – and you can reserve your tickets now.  Finally, don’t forget to get your music series tickets, cost is $60 for all 6 shows. Come on, where else can you see this kind of a line up for $10 a show.  These tickets would make a great Christmas present for someone, so reserve your tickets now!

For additional information or ticket reservations contact Tina or Eddie at (863) 635-9112 or (863) 635-7222 or email them at info@frostproofchamber.com or info@ramontheater.com.

So, the next time you are driving on Highway 27 around Lake Wales, make the turn east and go until you see Wall Street. That’s where your adventure begins in Frostproof. To give you even more reason to stop in, here is a list of upcoming events, starting with a big Labor Day celebration this weekend.

• Old Fashioned Labor Day: 9am-9pm – There will be a softball tournament in the morning, games, inflatables, a Thomas the Train appearance, food and drinks. The highlight of the day will be the parade, “Little Miss Frostproof Pageant” and the street dance at 7pm on (you guessed it) Wall Street.
• Coming in January of 2010, Frostproof will begin the “Night at the Ramon” music series. You won’t want to miss these great concerts in the unique setting of the Ramon Theater. Passes for the entire series are available now and can be purchased by calling the Ramon Theater office at 863-635-7222. We will have more information here as it gets closer, but here is a list of the performers:
  • January 9th, 2010 – Donald Gandy: Tickets will be $15 at the door or $12.50 prior to January 9th, 2010.
  • January 16th, 2010 – Mustang Sally and the Hamjo’s: Tickets will be $20 at the door or $15 prior to January 16th, 2010.
  • February 6th, 2010 – Steven Sternberg: Tickets will be $20 at the door or $15 prior to February 6th, 2010.
  • February 20th, 2010 – The Repeatles & Elvis: Tickets will be $20 at the door or $15 prior to February 20th, 2010.
  • February 27th, 2010 – Cory Greenway: Tickets will be $15 at the door or $12.50 prior to February 27th, 2010.
  • March 6th, 2010 – Glen Clark: Tickets will be $15 at the door or $12.50 prior to March 6th, 2010.

1. Eat yummy ice cream!
2. Visit the museums: Polk Museum of Art, Explorations V Children’s Museum, Arts on the Park.
3. Explore Downtown using the City’s walking tour brochure.
4. Go to a First Friday event.
5. Take a walking tour of the outdoor sculptures and art.
6. Play a game of checkers in front of The General Store.
7. See a movie at the historic Polk Theatre.
8. Visit the Downtown Farmers Curb Market on a Saturday.
9. Explore the antique shops.
10. Surf the Internet using the SurfLakeland wifi.
11. Stroll Lake Mirror Promenade & Hollis Garden.
12. See a show at the Lakeland Center, Lakeland Community Theatre, or Imperial Symphony Orchestra.
13. Find historic Lakeland photos in the shops and restaurants.
14. Read a good book on a blanket in Munn Park.
15. Ride your bike around the lakes.
16. Visit Florida Southern College for the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture.
17. Fly a kite or play in the water spouts at Barnett Park.
18. Catch up with the local artists at the shops and galleries.
19. See how many different types of birds you can find at Lake Morton.
20. Walk your dog around Lake Mirror.
21. People watch along Kentucky Ave. while dining al fresco.
22. Catch a sports game at the neighborhood bars.
23. Have breakfast on Saturday DOWNTOWN!
24. Sign up for a guided historic walking tour.
25. Take a tour of Polk Theatre.

Every city and community in Polk County certainly has a long list of things to do, so send us yours! Either email your city’s list to kris@centralfloridasports.comor reply to this opostwith soe of your favorite things to do in Sunny Central Florida.

Haines City – Thunder on the Ridge (July 4 from Noon-10pm): The 2009 Thunder on the Ridge Extravaganza will be bigger and better than ever as the city celebrates the grand opening of  the new Lake Eva Community Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The park features a new aquatic center, two playgrounds, lighted tennis and basketball courts, a band shell for concerts, and a lakefront banquet facility.There will be plenty of craft and food vendors, children’s activities, and entertainment to keep visitors of all ages busy throughout the day beginning at Noon.  The highlight of the night (besides Polk County’s largest fireworks display, of course) will be a live performance by The Commodores. Find out more.

Lakeland – Red, White & Kaboom (July 3 at 6pm): Red, White & Kaboom will take place around the Lake Mirror Promenade and will feature the pop/rock sounds of the popular local band, MillHopper. The band will play three sets of music ending at 9:00 p.m. to a breathtaking display of fireworks over Lake Mirror. As part of this year’s celebration, the city of Lakeland is asking for a canned food item from everyone who attends the free event. There will be several locations throughout Lake Mirror Park that will be accepting the canned food donations. There will be a variety of food and drink vendors around Lake Mirror so bring a blanket and enjoy the live music and a dramatic display of fireworks over the lake. All City parking garages will be open. Find out more.

Lakeland – Lakeland Flying Tigers vs. Tampa Yankees (July 4 at 5pm): There is no better way to celebrate America, the summer and the 4th of July than watching a baseball game followed by a huge fireworks display over Joker Marchant Stadium. In what has become a 4th of July tradition, the Lakeland Flying Tigers will host the July 4th game and set off a dazzling display of fireworks at 9pm, following the game. Get your tickets early as this game is a tough ticket to get. Find out more.

Winter Haven – Rockin’ Freedom Fest (July 3 at 7pm): Lake Silver will be the backdrop for Winter haven’s 4th of July celebration. Live music by the band Signal Zero will lead up to the large fireworks display over Lake Silver at 9:30pm. There will be food vendors and lots of entertainment for the kids. Find out more.

Winter Haven – Cypress Gardens July 4th Celebration (July 4): Both Cypress Gardens and Splash Island Water Park are set to celebrate July 4th with a very special day of entertainment. Cypress Gardens will be open from 9:00am-10:00pm and will feature four ski shows at 1:30 pm, 4:00 pm, and 6:00 pm, with a special “Nighttime Ski Show” at 8:45 pm. The Lakeside Stage (between Ski Stadiums) will also host The Fletcher Cane Band from 7:00 pm until 8:30 pm. Then, be sure to stay for the Fireworks on the Lake at the Ski Stadium at 9:15 pm (immediately following the “Nighttime Ski Show). At Splash Island, the park hours will be from 10:00am-10:00pm with a live DJ playing your favorite music from noon-7pm.

Mid Florida Mayfaire By The Lake -Saturday and Sunday at Lake Morton in Lakeland – This is always a fun event that the whole family can enjoy. It isn’t just for art lovers–plus, you can even pick up a great Mother’s Day present here! Be sure to check out the Mayfaire Saturday night street party at Lake Mirror too. The hours for the Mayfaire by the Lake are 10am-5pm each day. Check out the official website for all the information.

Bok Tower Gardens Mother’s Day Carillon Concerts- Sunday at 1pm and 3pm in Lake Wales – The weather looks good this weekend, so it will be perfect for a stroll through Bok Tower Gardens and you can even sit and listen to the special Mother’s Day Carillon Concerts. Sounds like a great plan for mom’s big day.

Magic Tree House: The Musical- Saturday at 11am and 2pm at The Lakeland Center – This would be a great way to start your Mother’s Day weekend. Take in either the late morning show or the matinee and then take the half mile ride to Lake Morton to see the Mayfaire by the Lake. Based on Mary Pope Osborne’s beloved series of children’s books, this musical transports Jack and Annie’s adventures onto the stage to create a theatrical event for the entire family. For ticket information, go to The Lakeland Center’s website.

Picasso’s Cup Art Cafe- 11am-7pm at Lakeside Village in Lakeland – Bring mom to Picasso’s Cup to paint some pottery. This is always a fun day out and it will make it even better to share with your mom on Mother’s Day. Or, if you are really lazy and put off getting a gift until the actual holiday, you can go to Picasso’s Cup and make something yourself. Moms are treated to a FREE studio session ($6.50 value) and a complimentary beverage from Tea Largo next door.

Well, there yuou go. We are now officially not responsible foryou forgetting to celebrate this holiday with your mom. If you have any other suggestions or know of anything else going on this weekend for Mother’s Day, let us know.

Friday

• First Friday: Holiday Happenings   6pm-9pm    Downtown Lakeland: Shopping, Santa, Lights, Music and More
• Comedy Buffet   8pm    Richard’s Cafe & Deli    Winter Haven Airport
• Theater: “A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tail”    7pm    George Jenkins High School
• “Magical Christmas Celebration”    7pm    Along Havendale Blvd. in Auburndale
• “Glitter, Glisten & Snow”    5pm-9pm     New Park Complex     Haines City
• Lakeland Bikefest   5pm      Downtown Lakeland
• Main Street Creamery Car Show    6pm-9pm     Downtown Lakeland
• Theater: “The Last Night of Ballyhoo”   7:30pm    Chain of Lakes Complex    Winter Haven
• Art Reception    6pm     Arts on the Park     Downtown Lakeland
• High School Football Playoffs: Tampa Chamberlain at Lakeland    7pm    Bryant Stadium

Saturday

• Theater: “A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tail”    2pm        George Jenkins High School
• Theater: “The Last Night of Ballyhoo”   7:30pm    Chain of Lakes Complex    Winter Haven
• Opera Theater:“Amal and the Night Visitors”   2:30pm and 7:30pm    Polk Theater    Lakeland
• Downtown Farmers Curb Market    8am-2pm    Peterson Plaza    Downtown Lakeland
• Gingerbread Village    1pm-4pm     Historic Baynard House      Auburndale
• Comedy: Ricky Reyes   8pm    Bonkerz Comedy Club and Blue Moon Lounge     Lakeland
• Santa’s Holiday Bash    1pm-3:30pm     Auburndale Civic Center
• Chain of Lakes Holiday Boat Parade    6:30pm       Begins at Lake May in Winter Haven
• Christmas Parade    10am    Begins at Eighth and Leadwith in Haines City
• Art and Kids: Family Fun Workshop    10:30am    Polk Museum of Art    Lakeland
• Snowfest     10am-2pm    Lake Mirror Complex      Lakeland
• Farmers Market     8am-2pm     North Blount Park    Bartow
• Auto Racing: 6pm     Auburndale Motor Speedway
• Art Reception    11am    Polk Museum of Art    Lakeland
• Art reception    6:30pm     Chain of Lakes Complex     Winter Haven

Sunday

• Theater: “The Last Night of Ballyhoo”   2:30pm    Chain of Lakes Complex    Winter Haven
• Bartow Adult Concert Band    2:30pm     Bartow Civic Center     Bartow