Highlands County officials are opening a warming center as freezing temperatures are expected late Saturday night through Sunday morning. The center will be located at the Bert J. Harris Jr. Agricultural Center in Sebring and will open from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. Saturday night, and again Sunday night. It’s available for anyone without adequate heat or shelter. Guests should bring ID, medications, bedding, and personal essentials. Emergency Management will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates.
The City of Sebring is reviewing three very different proposals to lease the Sebring Municipal Golf Course, which has operated at a financial loss for years. The proposals come from the Blackmon Family’s Historic Harder Hall group, H&L Golf Group, and Sports Med Properties. City leaders will hear presentations during a workshop on February 3rd, with no vote scheduled that day. A final decision is expected at a rescheduled City Council meeting on February 19th.
The Sun ‘N Lake Improvement District has unanimously approved an update to its 2025–2026 budget, citing new income and unexpected expenses. District leaders say increased land sales and FEMA funding tied to Hurricane Milton repairs prompted the changes. Adjustments include updated uniform standards, storm-related golf course repairs, and the purchase of more than 1,000 parcels in Unit 12. Officials also confirmed FEMA funds will be placed into golf course reserves, with a long-term goal of building a dedicated reserve fund. The board says the update keeps the district financially accurate and on track.
A beloved Florida tradition is making a comeback this weekend as the Florida Citrus Festival returns to downtown Winter Haven after nearly two decades. First launched in the 1920s, the festival once drew visitors from across the country to celebrate Florida’s citrus and agricultural roots before shutting down in 2008. Organizers say the revived, one-day event will feature more than 50 vendors, live entertainment, citrus-themed competitions, and educational showcases. The festival runs Saturday, the 31st, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Central Park, celebrating Florida citrus and supporting local growers.