Havana Hub – Havana, Florida

Author: admin

  • Havana Sunday Spotlight – Juarez Roofing

    Havana Sunday Spotlight – Juarez Roofing

    This week’s Sunday Spotlight shines on Juarez Roofing LLC, a locally owned roofing company based right here in Havana.

    Owned by Monica Juarez, the company will celebrate 7 years in business this May. Roofing runs in the family… Monica says her husband Ricardo has always loved construction, and the two first launched M&R Renovations back in 2014, which is still going strong today. Construction also runs deep in Monica’s family… her father retired from AJAX Building Corp in the mid-2000s, and her stepfather was one of the best known residential brick masons in Tallahassee.

    Juarez Roofing has built its reputation the old-fashioned way… word of mouth. Monica says they don’t really advertise, and most of their work comes from happy customers recommending them to friends and neighbors.

    As a woman-owned and minority-owned business, Monica takes pride in running a small company focused on craftsmanship and attention to detail. In fact, she says they’ve never had to return to a completed roof due to workmanship issues… something that speaks to the quality of their work.

    Their most popular installs are Owens Corning shingles, though Monica admits she especially enjoys projects involving mechanical standing seam metal roofs… a product she says is both durable and beautiful.

    Monica and her family moved to the area about six years ago to live near Lake Tallavana, drawn by the peaceful setting and the small-town feel that makes this community special.

    When she’s not on the job, Monica enjoys visiting the monthly Havana Market, spending time outdoors, photographing sunsets, crafting, and hanging out with her dogs.

    She also enjoys supporting other local favorites like Flower and Photography by Cindy Aho and Doering’s Doughs… especially the sourdough.

    Monica says everything they’ve built has come through dedication and sacrifice… starting with very little and working hard to grow their businesses and support their family. She’s also proud of a big family milestone coming up… their daughter will graduate from the University of Alabama this spring.

    850-728-0879
    juarezroofing850@gmail.com

    Another great local business helping keep roofs strong across Gadsden County… and another reminder of the hardworking folks who make our community what it is. 🏡🔨

    Juarez Roofing from above…
  • Havana This Week – Out and About in Spring

    Havana This Week – Out and About in Spring

    Hello Havana friends. It’s Thursday, and spring is officially here. This week’s update is all about getting outside and enjoying what the season has to offer … from gardens and farms to local history and community events.

    IFAS and Garden Club Plant Sales

    The UF/IFAS Extension in Gadsden County is hosting its annual plant sale this weekend. It’s a great chance to pick up vegetables, herbs, flowers, and gardening advice straight from the extension team.

    IFAS
    9:00am-3:00pm
    2140 W Jefferson St Quincy, FL

    The Havana Garden Club Spring Plant Sale is also coming up on April 11 in front of the Havana Shade Tobacco Museum. Whether you’re planting a vegetable patch or adding color to your porch, this event has something for every gardener.

    Havana Garden Club
    8:30am-12:30pm
    204 2nd St NW, Havana, FL 32333

    Whitetail Hollow Farms Spring Event

    Whitetail Hollow Farms is hosting a Spring Farm Day event this weekend, offering a hands-on look at farm life just northwest of town. Whitetail Hollow is a family-run operation on roughly 45 acres that focuses on sustainable farming, regenerative practices, and connecting people with where their food comes from.

    What’s Included
    Foraging walk with Billy Bailey (Old Ways Education) (AM or PM, pick one)
    Guided farm tour led by Gigi and Jed Carroll (owners of Whitetail Hollow Farms)
    Lunch included: 1 hamburger OR 1 hot dog per person + chips + cookie + water
    Attendee-only plant sale access (plants sold separately; limited quantities)

    Dry Conditions Continue

    Even with a bit of rain lately, much of Florida—including Gadsden County—is still experiencing severe drought conditions. Fire risk remains elevated, and while there isn’t an official burn ban, local officials continue to urge extreme caution with outdoor burning or fire use until conditions improve.

    Help Support the Havana Volunteer Fire Department and head over to Lashley Automotive for their annual car show and fundraiser.
    10:00am-3pm
    2726 Salem Rd. Havana, FL 32333

    Havana Cigar Days Coming Later This Month

    The Havana Cigar Days returns on April 25. Hosted by the Havana Heritage and History Society, this annual event highlights our town’s deep roots in the shade tobacco industry that once helped define Havana. It’s always a great way to explore local history and enjoy a day with friends and neighbors.

    What’s Happening Around Town

    With warmer weather here, community activity is picking up. From plant sales and farm events to our annual traditions and local markets, this is the time of year when folks start getting out more … meeting neighbors, supporting local growers, and celebrating life in Havana.

    If you’ve got an event or community news to share for next week’s update, send it our way.

    See you next Thursday.

    Havana Hub

  • Havana, Florida… History, Community, and a Small Town Worth Exploring

    Havana, Florida… History, Community, and a Small Town Worth Exploring

    Located just north of Tallahassee is Havana, Florida… this small town in Gadsden County has built a reputation as one of the most unique communities in North Florida. Known for its historic downtown, antique shops, art galleries, and local events, Havana continues to attract visitors looking for a slower pace and a little character.

    While it may be small, Havana has a long and interesting history…and a community that continues to shape its future.

    Havana’s Roots in Tobacco Farming

    Like much of Gadsden County, Havana’s early growth was closely tied to the shade tobacco industry. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, tobacco farms covered much of the surrounding area, producing wrapper tobacco used in premium cigars.

    During those years, Havana became an important center for farming, processing, and trade. Warehouses, packing houses, and local businesses supported the agricultural economy, helping the town grow into a busy small community.

    Even today, parts of that history remain visible around town…from historic buildings to the layout of the original downtown streets.

    A Downtown Full of Character

    As the tobacco industry declined later in the twentieth century, Havana gradually reinvented itself.

    The historic buildings that once served agricultural businesses found new life as antique shops, galleries, cafés, and boutiques. Over time, the town developed a reputation as an antique and arts destination for visitors coming from nearby cities like Tallahassee as well as South Georgia, Alabama, and beyond.

    Today, walking through downtown Havana means finding something different in nearly every storefront…antiques, artwork, vintage décor, handmade goods, and locally owned shops that give the town its personality.

    Community Events and Local Life

    Havana also keeps its small-town spirit alive through regular community events.

    Seasonal festivals, monthly markets, and local gatherings bring residents and visitors together throughout the year. These events help support local businesses while keeping the town active and welcoming.

    It’s part of what makes Havana stand out…people still gather, talk, and support the businesses that make the community unique.

    Looking Ahead for Havana

    Like many small towns across North Florida, Havana continues to evolve while holding onto the qualities that make it special.

    Its proximity to Tallahassee makes it an easy destination for day trips, while its historic charm continues to attract artists, entrepreneurs, and visitors looking for something a little different.

    With a strong sense of community and a growing interest in small-town destinations, Havana remains one of the hidden gems of Gadsden County.

    Happy Easter from Havana Hub

    As spring arrives and gardens across town begin to bloom, we’d also like to wish all Havana Hub members and readers a Happy Easter.

    Thank you for supporting local events, businesses, and the stories that make Havana such a special place to live and visit. We’re glad you’re part of the community…and we look forward to sharing more from around town in the weeks ahead.

  • Havana This Week – Spring Events and Community Updates

    Havana This Week – Spring Events and Community Updates

    Hello Havana friends. It’s Thursday again, which means it’s time for another Havana This Week. Here’s a quick look at some things happening around town lately and what’s coming up soon.

    Easter Bunny Visits the Havana Market

    The Havana Market had a special guest last Saturday when the Easter Bunny stopped by for photos and springtime fun. Families came out to enjoy the market, browse local vendors, and snap a few pictures with the Bunny. It was a great reminder that spring has officially arrived in Havana.

    Comedy Comes to Burned Beard Brewing

    Looking for something fun to do this weekend…. Mitch Fatel will be performing live this Saturday at Burned Beard Brewing.

    Fatel has been performing stand-up for more than three decades, with appearances on late night television and multiple comedy specials. If you’re in the mood for a night of laughs, good beer, and a full house of locals, this should be a fun one.

    Town of Havana Elections Coming Up

    Local elections are right around the corner…. the Town of Havana will hold its municipal election on April 28 for Town Council seats 4, 5, 6, and 7.

    Councilman Landon Seymour will not be running for re-election this year. John Bryant and Robert Mosby are competing for that seat.

    Local elections often have the biggest impact on day-to-day life in a small town like ours, so be sure to mark your calendar and get out and vote.

    Havana Garden Club Spring Plant Sale

    Garden season is here…. and that means it’s time for the annual Havana Garden Club Spring Plant Sale.

    This year’s sale will take place April 11 in front of the Havana Shade Tobacco Museum. If you’re looking for flowers, plants, or something new for the yard, it’s always a great event to check out. The Garden Club usually brings a wide variety of plants and plenty of local gardening knowledge.

    Around Town

    Spring tends to bring Havana back to life…. markets get busier, gardens start blooming, and more folks are out walking around downtown again. If you’ve been meaning to get out and explore the shops, grab a bite, or just enjoy the weather, this is a great time to do it.

    That’s all for this week. If you have a local event, announcement, or community news worth sharing, feel free to let us know.

    See you next Thursday.

    – Havana Hub

  • Havana Announces “World’s First Tobacco-Themed Water Park”

    Havana Announces “World’s First Tobacco-Themed Water Park”

    Town leaders in Havana, Florida reportedly approved early plans for Leaf Lagoon, a tobacco heritage water park celebrating the town’s historic farming roots.

    Proposed attractions include:

    The Cigar Cutter Drop (a straight-down waterslide)
    The Shade-Grown Lazy River
    The Little Leaf Splash Pad for kids

    Supporters say the park would combine Havana’s agricultural history with something the area definitely needs during Florida summers: more places to cool off.

    Beer Pipeline Proposal from Quincy

    In what some are calling the “most efficient transportation plan yet,” local officials are rumored to be studying a direct beverage pipeline from Burned Beard Brewing to thirsty residents across Gadsden County, Florida.

    The concept would allow fresh craft beer to be “distributed through underground tap lines.”

    Supporters say it would:

    Reduce traffic
    Cut down on growler trips
    And dramatically improve happiness levels countywide.

    Havana Antique District Trolley

    There’s also talk of a weekend antique trolley connecting the shops in downtown Havana, Florida with visitors coming from Tallahassee, Florida.

    The proposed trolley would run every Saturday and feature:

    Antique shopping stops
    Local history narration
    And optional “porch sitting breaks” built into the schedule.

    Early feedback from locals: “Honestly… we’d ride it.”

    Tallahassee Tests “Gator Awareness Zones”

    Officials in Tallahassee, Florida are reportedly testing Gator Awareness Zones in parks and greenways.

    These zones would include:

    Warning signs
    Gator selfie spots
    And a proposed “Gator of the Month” educational display.

    Because… if you’re going to live in Florida, you might as well lean into it.

    Now We Want to Hear From You

    Which of these sounds the most believable?

    🌴 Havana Water Park
    🍺 Beer Pipeline from Burned Beard
    🚂 Havana Antique Trolley
    🐊 Tallahassee Gator Awareness Zones

    Or better yet…. what’s your April Fools rumor for Havana or Gadsden County?

    Drop your best idea in the comments and let’s see who can fool the most locals today.

  • Havana this Week – The Bad and the Good

    Havana this Week – The Bad and the Good

    Havana, Florida — A Week in Review

    Havana WoodFest 2025 Brings Craft and Community to Life

    This past Saturday, Downtown Havana buzzed with creativity and community spirit as Havana WoodFest 2025 unfolded from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Organized by Havana Main Street, the festival celebrated artisanal woodworking with stunning handcrafted creations, live demonstrations, and locally sourced food trucks.

    Music lovers were treated to the lively sounds of acoustic group Hot Tamale, whose performance added a vibrant rhythm to the festival atmosphere.

    In a delightful partnership of style and horsepower, the town also hosted its first-ever car show in conjunction with WoodFest. Antique cars, hot rods, motorcycles, and sports cars lined the streets, offering a nostalgic treat to classic car enthusiasts and families alike. Entry was free, and organizers promised plenty of “food and fun” for all.

    Shooting in Havana

    The week began with a serious incident Sunday night when Florida State University football player Ethan Pritchard was shot inside a vehicle near Havana Heights Apartments at the corner of 16th Street and South Main Street. He was transported to a local hospital by EMS. The Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies are investigating.

    Allison Christmas Spectacular Moves to Havana Christmas Tree Farm

    For its 18th year, the beloved Allison Christmas Spectacular is relocating from Sandy Creek Road to the scenic Havana Christmas Tree Farm (2867 Florida Georgia Hwy, Havana, FL).

    Running Thanksgiving through New Year’s, from 6 PM to 10 PM ET, this free, drive-through experience invites families to enjoy festive sights—now enhanced with 14 arches, 30 mega trees, floating LED ornaments, snowfall effects, and 2,000 giant bottle-cap lights! Tune in live to 102.1 FM during your visit, and feel good doing good—donations (including items for the Charity Drive) are welcomed.

    The move comes in response to neighborhood concerns over traffic and safety last season, ensuring this magical tradition remains accessible and community-focused for years to come.

  • Havana This Week – Good News All Around!

    Havana This Week – Good News All Around!

    HPD Golf Tournament – Big thanks to everyone who teed off Friday at Havana Golf & Country Club to support our Police Department’s new Public Safety Building. A fun round of golf and a whole lot of community spirit!

    Prescription for Care – Renovations can begin soon at Havana Medical Center as we welcome Dr. Cameron Browning. Every donation helps modernize this vital community resource.

    Grand Openings This Weekend –

    Personali-Tee opens Saturday at 10 a.m. – stop by and check out their custom creations!

    Sist3r Chicks Sandwich Shop (204 NW 1st St.) celebrates their Grand Opening Saturday, Aug. 16 with a Ribbon Cutting at 10 a.m., a Prize Wheel, and a $50 Gift Card Drawing. Open 10 a.m.–4 p.m. — and yes, the chicken salad is worth the hype!



    Back-to-School Giveaway – Last weekend, Blessings of Hope Empowerment Outreach hosted their annual school supply giveaway at the Carver Heights Senior Citizens Building, helping local students start the year prepared and confident

  • Welcome to the Havana Hub News Section!

    Welcome to the Havana Hub News Section!

    We’re excited to announce the launch of a brand-new feature on HavanaHubFL.com — our News Section!

    Here, you’ll find a mix of lighthearted community stories, important local updates, and thoughtful perspectives from people right here in Havana, Florida. Our goal is to keep our neighbors informed, inspired, and connected.

    In addition to reporting, we’re opening the door for public voices and editorials. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas, and this space will give our community just that.

    Do you love to write? Have a story to tell? We’re looking for contributors! If you’re interested in writing for Havana Hub, please reach out to us at havanahubfl@gmail.com — we’d love to hear from you.

    This is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to grow this section with your input and stories. Together, we’ll keep Havana informed and engaged.