Havana Hub – Havana, Florida

Tag: IHeartHavana

  • 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, 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.

  • 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.