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Downtown Times
THE MAIN STREET BARTOW NEWSLETTER
February 2025
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Friday Fest opens SyFy Bartow
Get ready to kick off the excitement for the SyFy Bartow Villains happening on Feb. 15 with a night of out-of-this-world fun at the SyFy Kickoff Friday Fest on Feb. 14 from 6-9 p.m.
Kent Kesler & Bonz Band will perform tunes from sci-fi movies and TV shows, plus a DJ will have you dancing in the streets.
SLS Entertainment has all sorts of fun in the works. Dress as your favorite character if you like and help us kick things off in style. Costume contests, character dance-offs, unique vendors, and so much more!
Don’t miss Friday Fest — it's going to be out of this world! Special thanks to our sponsor, Clear Springs - Endless Possibilities.
Space is still available for children's activities and vendors. Call the Main Street Bartow office at 863-519-0508 for information.
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See Below for Friday Fest Coupon
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Villains take over SyFy Bartow
Join a SyFy celebration of the bad guys when The Villains gather for SyFy Bartow 2025, a free, family-friendly street fair in Downtown Bartow.
SyFy Bartow is celebrating its 12th year on Saturday, Feb. 15, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., covering more than 15 blocks in the downtown area.
Presented by Main Street Bartow and Bartow Con LLC, the event features all types of entertainment, a costume contest, scavenger hunt, more than 200 vendors, food trucks, one of the largest gatherings of Ghostbusters, the largest science fiction car show in the continental United States, the SyFy Bartow Pageant, pet adoptions, kids’ activities and so much more. Plus, downtown shops and restaurants, and the Polk County History Center will be open.
Hosts Sean and Lori Serdynski have arranged a star-studded line-up of actors, authors, and performers and other science fiction personalities again this year.
Among the numerous special guests are two actors from the television series Stranger Things. Joe Davison and Kevin Kedgley will be set up on Central Avenue signing autographs and doing a meet and greet.
You can find out more on the SyFy Bartow 2025 and SYFY Bartow Facebook pages.
Thank you to our sponsors: Evolve, Meeks Real Estate LLC, Unfiltered, Spath Jewelers, WBF 102.9 FM, Lasting Impressions by Nicole, Chilton Sign Works, and The Byers Group.
SyFy Bartow is free to attend and parking is free, too, including the county parking garage.
For more information contact syfybartow@gmail.com or visit the website bartowcon.com or the SyFy Bartow Facebook page.
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Valentine’s at the Market
Celebrate Marketines — Valentine’s at the Market, the Ole Bartow Farmers Market, that is.
A wide variety of vendors, food trucks, music, crafts, plus food, plants and more will be offered on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Fort Blount Park.
Family-friendly and pet-friendly Farmers Markets are held the second and fourth Saturday of each month.
Come out and support your farmers, growers and producers!
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Adult Band Concert
Bartow Adult Concert Band will present its first concert of 2025 on Sunday, Jan. 26, at Bartow Civic Center.
This free concert begins at 2:30 p.m. with Bartow High School Band Director Jon Eckman conducting.
Future concerts are scheduled for Sundays, Feb. 23, March 23, and April 27, and on Friday, July 4.
Come early to get a good seat!
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Library story time returns with Ms. Catherine
Story times return this month with Ms. Catherine, the new Youth Services librarian. She brings a wealth of experience to the library. She spent 10 years as a music teacher, working with kids ages 0-18 in Florida and Maryland. She also served as the branch manager of the West Osceola Library in Celebration.
When she's not at the library, she loves spending time with her family, visiting Disney World and, of course, reading!
Ms. Catherine is thrilled to join the Bartow community and can’t wait to work with all the amazing kids and families here! Stop by to say hello and share a story together.
Thursday mornings begin with Book Babies at 10 a.m. for 18-months to 2-year- olds with songs, finger rhymes, and stories. Then Songs & Stories starts at 11 a.m. for ages 3-5 with stories, music, simple crafts, and fun.
A special guest is coming to the library on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m.: Storyteller Tamara Green! She'll share touching stories from Africa, her family and Florida. Born in Memphis, Tenn., she holds an MFA in performing arts and a bachelor of science in English education and has served as the Youthful Voices Director for the Florida Storytelling Association. Her love of stories comes from her father. All ages welcome!
Join in a fun and creative adult craft night making crochet bead necklaces on Thursday, Feb. 6, at 6 p.m. All you need to learn is one simple stitch to make a beautiful and timeless necklace; no crochet experience needed. Come unwind, chat, and create something special.
For ages 18+, call the library to register.
Once Upon a Cuento — Saturday, Feb. 15, 11 a.m.-noon
Stories in Spanish and English for all ages!
President's Day Story Time — Monday, Feb. 17, 10 - 10:30 a.m.
Join a special President's Day Storytime at the library. Read fun and informative books about U.S. presidents, their lives, and the history they shaped. Perfect for elementary-aged kids, this event will inspire young minds to learn about leadership and the country’s past. Don’t miss out on stories, songs, and a craft!
Ebooks with Libby and Hoopla — Thursday, Feb. 20, 4 - 5 p.m.
eBook Basics invites our library users to install and sign up for Bartow's eBook service Libby. Learn how to find and install the free app, how to register using your library barcode and pin numbers, and how to search Libby for eBooks and audiobooks to read and hear. The program also covers Hoopla Digital, available through Lakeland Public and Polk County Library Cooperative.
Seating is limited; call 863-534-0131 to register.
Intro to Canva — Thursday, Feb. 27, 4 - 5 p.m.
Canva is a free graphic design platform that can help anyone make professional-looking flyers, invitations, social media posts, and more! From templates to fonts, images to elements, this program will guide you through every step.
Seating is limited; call 863-534-0131 to register.
Novels After Noon — Do you like to read? Do you enjoy lively discussions about books? Then join along as this book discussion group reads a new book each month and then meets to review it and share opinions and feelings.
First Wednesday of the month, 3 - 4 p.m.
March: Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson
Novels at Night — Evening book club that meets both in-person and online. Pick a book inspired by the monthly theme, then bring your book to the club and tell us all about it. At the library and online via Zoom (call the library if you want to join in virtually). Third Thursday of the month, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
February: A book about something you dislike
March: A NY Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Century pick
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Happenings at Polk History Center
Feb. 1- 28, Black History Month
Visit the Polk County History Center and discover the rich heritage of Polk County’s Black community. History Center staff will provide interested guests with a guide to Black history at the History Center and on the Heritage Trail.
Explore the archives in the Historical and Genealogical Library and discover the stories of Polk’s earliest Black pioneers and communities. Check out the online collection of videos highlighting Black history in Polk County: https://youtu.be/swgH3G2FgB0?si=snIgToxZO3UAP-Fc.
Feb. 8, Happy Birthday Polk County!
Amid a growing desire for self-governance, settlers from Socrum, Fort Fraser and Fort Meade took to the polls in 1860 and elected state representatives sympathetic to dividing portions of Hillsborough and Brevard counties into a new political subdivision. On Jan. 17, 1861, State Rep. Joseph Howell submitted legislation to create that new jurisdiction named Polk. The measure passed the House on Jan. 3 and the Senate on Feb. 8, 1861. Join in celebrating 164 years of progress, community and shared history.
Saturday, Feb. 15, 11 a.m., Historic Courthouse Architectural Tour
Join Curator of Collections Bartholomew Delcamp as he portrays E.C. Hosford on an architectural tour of the History Center. Discover the neoclassical architectural elements incorporated in the design that define this iconic Polk County landmark. This month’s focus is on the unique engineering solutions utilized to complete the construction of the courthouse. The architectural tour occurs on the third Saturday of each month at 11 a.m.
This month’s tour is the same day as SyFy Bartow. Feel free to join the festivities before or after your tour of the History Center; crowds will be larger than normal in downtown.
Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m. Genealogy Speaker Series: Research Plans and Source Documentation, presented by Sara Dawson
Dawson is a multifaceted professional genealogist, historian, researcher and storyteller. Sara channels her passion into uncovering forgotten narratives connecting people to their past.
Learn how a good research plan can help you organize your genealogy research and stop the “re-do.” Just like planning for a vacation, a genealogy research plan guides and helps you to reach your destination. Whether you have a basic or a complex problem, a research plan can help you prepare for an organized search and keep you from going down the rabbit hole.
This is a virtual program. For Zoom details, contact Shannon Graham at 863-534-4604 or ShannonGraham@polk-county.net.
These activities are free. For more information, visit www.polkhistorycenter.org or call 863-534-4386. The center is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday in the Historic Courthouse at 100 East Main St.
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L.B. Brown Heritage Festival
L.B. Brown Heritage Festival is Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 8 and 9, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day.
This is the 25th annual festival held on the grounds of the L.B. Brown House which draws visitors from across the nation and other countries. The house is featured in an exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, D.C.
The event features live performances, vendors, recording artists and more. Entertainment will be from 1- 4 p.m. on Saturday and 2- 4 p.m. on Sunday. Scheduled entertainment includes DJ Coolie-C, Milania Floyd, Buffalo Soliders, Tremayne Toombs, Bartow Community Choir, Renard Hayes and Sing Out Crew, Hajj Guye, Rod Bostic, Pastor Leslie Berrien White, Step This Way, Crystal's World of Dance, Comedian Scott Simpkins, Lil' Jason Johnson, and Pastor Nate and D'Ter-Men.
Vendors are asked to sign up ASAP because space is limited. Go to www.lbbrown.com for information, application, and payment. For more information call 863-330-3122.
The L.B. Brown House Museum is at 470 L.B. Brown Ave. See the flyer below for more information.
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Jeepin’ with Judd Show and Shine
Enjoy an evening of fun, great company, and impressive Jeep displays in Downtown Bartow on Friday, Feb. 21, from 6-9 p.m., hosted by Main Street Bartow.
The annual Jeepin’ with Judd Show and Shine is a street party featuring fun, live music, and a chance to show off your Jeep in style. Whether you're a Jeep enthusiast or just love a good time, this event is for you. Anyone is welcome!
To be considered for one of the awards, you must have a Jeepin’ with Judd 2025 event decal. Winners will be contacted at the phone number provided during registration, so keep your cell phone close by. Show and Shine awards will be presented by Sheriff Judd during the evening.
For more information, call 863-519-0508 or visit our website at www.mainstreetbartowfl.com. For more information about Jeepin’ with Judd trail rides at Clear Springs Ranch, visit https://jeepinwithjudd.com.
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Bloomin’ Arts Festival March 1-2
Bartow’s 54th Bloomin’ Arts Festival offers a juried art show featuring artists from around the country and much more — from a car show and bike ride to children’s activities and lots of entertainment.
This free community event hosted by the Bartow Art Guild, Main Street Bartow and the Greater Bartow Chamber of Commerce, covers several blocks of Downtown Bartow and is open from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 1 and 2.
Moody Law is the new presenting sponsor of the festival.
Award-winning Bartow artist Sherry Ross was the winner of this year’s T-shirt contest, selected from 42 entries. Her mixed media artwork, “Hedwig,” will be used on the festival T-shirt, posters and advertisements. T-shirts will be on sale at the info booth during the event.
More than 90 artists will exhibit work that includes painting, photography, fiber art, sculpture, jewelry, woodwork, mixed media, clay and metal work. Approximately $15,000 will be offered in prizes and purchase awards.
Allison McCarthy is the judge for the fine arts and crafts division. She is a curator, arts administrator, and exhibition designer with more than 20 years of experience in the arts, working at the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg since 2015. A native Floridian, she graduated magna cum laude with a BFA from Savannah College of Art & Design and studied art history in graduate school at Florida State University.
This year’s student art judge Kappy Williams is a longtime Bartow resident and supporter of the arts. She is an accomplished painter and spent many years teaching after-school art to local kids.
Student awards will be presented on Saturday at 3:30 on the south steps of the Polk County History Center. The Adult Awards Ceremony will be on Sunday at 3 o’clock on the entertainment stage in the 100 block of East Davidson Street.
Other festival features include the quilt show, children’s activity tent, Bartow Garden Club exhibit, food trucks, and live entertainment.
New this year is Bloomin’ Air, a plein air event hosted by the Lakeland Arts Assn. on Sunday from 9 a.m. to noon. This event is open to all artists wishing to paint in plein air. Early registration online through Lakeland Arts Association is $30. Registration onsite the day of the event will be $35. Bloomin’ Arts exhibitors may compete for free. Registration is now open online at https://www.lakelandartsassociation.com/event/bloomin-air-at-bartow-bloomin-arts
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Bloomin’ Bike Ride
Bloomin’ Bike Ride will roll out on Saturday, March 1. Registration and check-in begins at 7 a.m., and the rides start at 8 a.m. at Front Page Brewing, 190 South Florida Ave.
Pre-registration is recommended. You can find more information and a registration link at www.facebook.com/BartowCyclingEvents or at https://events.hakuapp.com/b9cf359fc8a0e1d78022.
Please park in the Oaks Parking lot just two blocks east of the brewery. GPS address is 220 South Central Ave., Bartow.
Hosted by Bartow Cycling Events and Main Street Bartow, the annual ride promotes family fun and fitness. This event is an on-road cycling tour along the scenic back roads of southern Polk County.
Road & Trail Bicycles is the ride’s sponsor for the 16th year.
Pre-registration fees are: 15-mile Blooming Family Fun Ride, $30 (tandem, $55); 36-mile Bloomin Bike Scenic Ride, $50 (tandem, $65); 65-mile Mosaic Monet Ride, $50 (tandem, $65); registration on ride day is $5 extra. Helmets are required for all riders.
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Bloomin’ Car Show
Bartow’s 54th annual Bloomin’ Arts Festival Car Show, sponsored by Kelley Buick GMC, will be Saturday, March 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
To enter a car for the show and register, cost is $15 day of show; no pre-registration. Dash plaques will be awarded to the first 100 registered. Those registered are also eligible for a 50/50 drawing and may win trophies (37 total awarded). Car categories include: 1985 and older, 1986 to 2006, and 2007-present. Best of Show and club participation trophies will also be awarded. Awards will be presented at 2 p.m.
Entertainment will be provided by a DJ from SLS Entertainment.
For more information, contact Tony Murray at 863-640-2945.
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Join us for the St. Paddy's Unparade!
Calling all partygoers, families, and friends, this is your chance to shine in our uniquely fun and free community celebration!
No registration or fees are required, just gather your crew, dress up in your most festive St. Patrick’s Day attire and meet us at Nye Jordan Park around 5 p.m. on Friday, March 21.
The Unparade marches to its own beat, and everyone is welcome to take part! Whether you want to walk, dance, or simply watch the fun unfold, we’d love to see you there.
The festivities don’t end there, stick around for a St. Paddy’s Friday Fest featuring live music by Daniel Burns Band, delicious food, and plenty of fun for all ages on the 100 block of Main Street!
So, round up your friends, get your green on, and let’s make this the most memorable parade yet!
Follow us: @mainstreetbartowfl.com. Questions? Call 863-519-0508.
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Valentine’s Day Group Wedding
Get married without the stress this Valentine's Day! Sign up for the 12th annual Valentine’s Day Group Wedding hosted by Polk County Clerk of Courts Stacy M. Butterfield.
The ceremony will be performed on Feb. 14 at noon in Fort Blount Park and is limited to 30 couples and registration is first come, first served.
Couples may register when applying for a marriage license at any of the three Clerk’s office locations — the Bartow Courthouse, Lakeland Government Center, or the Northeast Government Center in Lake Alfred. All couples must apply for a marriage license and register for the event by Tuesday, Feb. 11.
Couples must submit the first part of the marriage license application online before visiting any of the Clerk’s offices to complete the application. The $30 ceremony fee is waived; however, standard marriage license fees do apply.
For more information or to register for the wedding, call the Official Records Department at 863-534-4516 or visit https://bit.ly/4h3oeVz.
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Galentine’s Night at Wine Stable
Grab your besties and get ready for a night just for the girls!
Galentine’s Night at The Wine Stable is Wednesday, Feb. 12, from 5 - 8 p.m., offering delicious snackies, fabulous drinks, and a secret “Burn Book” cocktail menu just for the ladies. It’s all about celebrating friendship, fun, and fierce female energy!
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Flower Cart hosts Girl Scouts
Who doesn't love Girl Scout cookies? You can come to the Flower Cart on Saturday, Feb. 8, to get them. The shop will be open 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. and the girls will be out front selling cookies. This is the same day as the Farmers Market Valentine's event so come downtown to shop and place your Valentine's orders! Flower Cart is at 365 East Main St.
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Piggy-Sue heart candle class
Piggy-Sue and Company Creations will offer a Valentine candle making class on Saturday, Feb. 8, at 6:30 p.m.
During this two-hour class you will make your own unique candle in a heart shape clay bowl 7"x8"x2". Make your own fragrance blend and make a 15-ounce clay heart soy candle. Materials will include dried flowers, dyes, and scents to create a special candle. All supplies will be included. Cost is $30 per person. To sign up, click on the link or register in person at Piggy-Sue and Company Creations, 310 East Summerlin St. https://piggy-sue-company-creations.square.site/
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Main Street Antique Market Feb. 8
Search through a treasure trove of vintage collectibles and rare antiques at our Main Street Antique Market on the second Saturday of the month from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. along the 300 block of East Main St. Discover unique finds, chat with knowledgeable vendors, and enjoy a sweet Saturday morning. Perfect for collectors and casual shoppers alike!
Booth spaces are $20 per space per month reserved in advance, or $25 day of show. Spaces may be reserved by calling Tony Milano at 863-533-4383 or Main Street Bartow at 863-519-0508, or emailing info@mainstreetbartowfl.com. First-time vendors will get a free booth space. Walk-up vendors welcome.
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Father-Daughter Dance
Calling all father figures! Treat your daughter to a special night out at the Valentine’s Father-Daughter Dance, presented by the Bartow Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Dept. on Friday, Feb. 21.
The event is for girls ages 5 through 18. The dance will be held at Bartow Civic Center from 6-8 p.m. Dress code: “Sunday Best.”
Dinner will be provided as dads and daughters dance the night away. Register at Bartowrec.recdesk.com.
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Main Street Business News...
Welcome 360 Perspective to Main Street Bartow
Main Street Bartow welcomes Denise Bohde as a new member of our family.
Denise represents her real estate business, 360 Perspective. However, she is very familiar with our organization, serving as our board president, bringing leadership and vision to Main Street Bartow.
Help us give her a warm welcome!
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Kind Intentions opens new business
Discover Kind Intentions, a new destination for mindfulness and personal transformation.
AJ and Angela Monaghan, a husband and wife team, are passionate about meditation, crystal healing, and sound therapy, ready to guide your wellness journey.
They offer: floating meditation, sound bath therapy, and advanced practices; a crystal and spiritual gift shop; coming soon, Spinal Flow practice.
Their mission is promoting peace and growth through mindfulness and compassion.
You can find them at 175 East Main St. or call 419-205-1680. This is a shared space with an onsite jeweler and jewelry store.
Store hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and Sunday by appointment.
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Fancy Face anniversary
Fancy Face Skin and Nails Spa will celebrate its first anniversary on Feb. 7. Congratulations!
Fancy Face is at 180 South Wilson Ave.; phone number 813-535-1087.
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Top Buttons adds a day
Top Buttons Bartow is feeling excited to announce the thrift store boutique is now open on Mondays from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m., in addition to 1- 6 Tuesday-Friday and 10-3 on Saturday.
The store is at 135 East Main St.; phone 863-800-3221
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New name for Terrie Lobb Catering
With a new name and a new look, Terrie Lobb Catering is now TLC Catering.
They still provide the same catering offerings and menu options for all event and catering needs in Polk County and surrounding areas.
Check out the new website at tlccatering.com.
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For more information on any Main Street Bartow event or to volunteer, please call our office at 863-519-0508 or visit our Facebook page or website, http://mainstreetbartowfl.com. If you know someone who would like to receive our newsletter please call the Main Street office, email us at info@mainstreetbartowfl.com or simply forward your copy via the link below.
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Check out this Handsome Boy!!!!
Meet Tanner!!!! This baby is only a year old and maybe about 40 pounds. He came to us through Animal Control where he was picked up as a stray. He has the most beautiful eyes!!!!! And Look at that smile!!!!!! He is such a big sweetheart!!!!! Just wants to be loved and find his Furever Family!!!! He loses his Foster Family on the 20th!!!! He is available for Foster or Adoption!!!!
His Foster Family says,
“He is now house trained. He is trained not to go into the bedroom. He’ll sit and wait to go through the front door. He loves to go to the dog park and run along the fence with dogs. He likes to fall asleep on the couch with his head on your lap. He will ring the bells on the back door to go out!!!!”
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Cassanova!!!!!!!
I mean…..look at thst face!!!!!! He is such a handsome boy!!!! We love his personality so much!!!! Cassanova is approximately 5 yrs old and weighs about 57 pounds. He is guesstimated to be a bulldog/pittie mix. He came to us through Animal Control where he was picked up as a stray. He’s kind of short and stocky, not really on the taller side. He has more of a submissive personality. He absolutely loves his squeaky toys!!!! He can entertain himself for hours and you will definitely be entertained watching him, lol. He’s hilarious!!!! He has the cutest personality!!!! He loves people!!!!! He is incredibly sweet and affectionate!!!! And he has this unique smirk that only he can deliver!!!! It will completely melt your heart!!!! Plz Share Cassanova & let’s find him his Furever Family in time for Valentine’s Day!!!!!
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RESCUE PUPPY ALERT
Meet Han (Black & White) and Brian!!!!!! Does it get any cuter?!?
These babies are almost 3 months old! They are Akita and Belgian Malinois mixes. They are absolutely stunning and their fur coats are so incredibly soft! They were surrendered to us due to being an accidental litter.
Per there Foster Dad-
“Han, he is such a cuddler. He loves to be petted little more dominant than his brother. They both love to wrestle & play with our dogs. Brian seems to be more independent. He’ll go outside and play with the bone by himself sit and bathe in the sun. They’re both very intelligent. They are starting to learn the sit command and the down command. We’re working on potty training them so whoever gets them are going to have a great dog or dogs hopefully they’ll take both of them.. They are doing really well on a leash. They seem to be very protective when walking and as we keep them longer, we will definitely keep you updated on their personalities. We hope that they do get adopted soon because it’s gonna be hard on my wife and I to keep them for too long.”
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Polk County Bully Project
5840 West Brannen Road
polkcountybullyproject@gmail.com
polkcountybullyproject.org
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For more on any Main Street Bartow event or to volunteer, please call our office at 863-519-0508 or visit our Facebook page or website, http://mainstreetbartowfl.com. If you know someone who would like to receive our newsletter please call the Main Street office, email us at info@mainstreetbartowfl.com or simply forward your copy via the link below.
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Thank you to our Legacy Level Investors: | |
Thank you to all our additional Preservation Investors:
Bartow Community Healthcare Foundation
Bartow Board of Realtors
Bartow Economic Development Council
Boswell & Dunlap Attorneys at Law
Spath Jewelers
Gibson & Wirt Inc.
Travel Leaders/International Sun
The Good Life RV Resort
Patel Greene
Simply Storage
Sunbelt Forest Products
PalletOne
Hollywood Window Tenting & Signs
Jefferies Bookkeeping
Stidham & Stidham P.A.
Zest Bar & Grill
V'Z Fine Dining
Dottie's Place/Maggie's Place
Bail America
Katz Closet
Fancy Face Skin & Nails
The Byers Group
Inklings Book Shoppe
UPS
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FRIDAY FEST BOGO
Buy 2 tokens
Get 2 tokens FREE
Good 2/14/2025
One coupon per person
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