FIRST REVOLUTION
Why Lakeland? Why not!
Passion for your story. Passion for your pursuit!
Lakeland Passion Project
What is the Lakeland Passion Project? A glimpse into the people and passions of the folks that make Lakeland special.
Lakeland is located in the heart of central Florida, nestled between Tampa and Orlando. Those of us who grew up here refer to it lovingly as a “big-little town.”
While it will always maintain its small city feel, Lakeland has grown exponentially in the last few decades.
Some of that growth is due to Lakeland being surrounded by more than a dozen colleges and universities where talented creatives are entering the workforce every day. Those innovators, entrepreneurs and world-changers are choosing to come to Lakeland, because it’s just that cool.
But trailblazers have been taking up residence in Lakeland for decades. Publix Super Markets, where shopping is indeed a pleasure, was founded in Lakeland and its headquarters remain in swan city.
Our community is connected, making it a hot spot for ingenuity to thrive. We are in great company with groundbreaking brands such as Publix, Geico, Lockheed Martin and more setting up shop in Lakeland.
No longer do orange groves line the streets but small and large businesses that flourish thanks to the support of the community.
That is what makes Lakeland so special, that is why we chose to root ourselves here. Because of the community. It just feels like home. And as Dorothy said in the iconic Wizard of Oz, “there is no place like home.”
If our ode to Lakeland doesn’t convince you, maybe some of First Revolution’s favorite spots will.
Downtown Lakeland
Like most of us, James our Chief Product Officer, loves a good meal. So, his favorite spot in Lakeland is Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grill. If you asked any other Lakelander their favorite restaurant, nine times out of 10 they will probably say the same. Looking for some savory shrimp and grits? Harry’s is the place. It doesn’t hurt they have a killer happy hour special if you’re looking to booze it up.
Tim, our Chief Film Officer, met the love of his life at his favorite location. He was meeting up with a friend, but as luck would have it, the friend was running late. While waiting, Tim couldn’t help but notice the beautiful Andrea and he got up the courage to say hello. Now the two have the coordinates of Linkster’s Tap Room in Downtown Lakeland tattooed on their arms. If you’re looking for a stiff beverage and a good time, Linkster’s is up your alley. Maybe you too will meet your soulmate at the bar.
Along Lakeland Hills
Batter up. Mikaela, our Chief Digital Media Officer, is a sports girly and loves the atmosphere of a professional sports venue. Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium is her favorite place in Lakeland. Having a stadium where an MLB league trains at is not only impressive, but an incredible opportunity for Lakelanders to enjoy America’s favorite past time. Although Mikaela is a huge fan of sports, she is also a huge fan of a good hot dog, which is probably why the stadium is her favorite spot in town.
Don’t let the alligator signs scare you, Lake Crago Park is one of the most serene locations in Lakeland, making it Kelly’s favorite place. As Founder and Owner of First Revolution, Kelly is a busy woman. At Lake Crago, she feels like the world is slowing down. Whether she is taking in the view of the busy birds on the lake or rocking in a chair on the large porch, Kelly feels total relaxation while there. If that doesn’t sound like a good enough time, there is a dog park nearby so you can join Kelly, Lola and other dogs of Lakeland while enjoying Lake Crago. Kelly loves a good park and is counting the days until Bonnet Springs Park opens to the public, which is sure to be a gem in the community.
Putting the "Lake" in Lakeland
The Lakeland community comes together at Lake Mirror, which is why it is Anthony’s favorite spot. Our Chaplain is passionate about turning neighbors into friends and cities into community and Lake Mirror is a bridge for various parts of the town. Major city events take place at the Frances Langford Promenade on the lake, bringing people together from across the city and beyond. Fireworks displays, food truck rallies or prom photos. Whatever the occasion, it is happening at Lake Mirror.
A romantic deep down, Tori’s favorite place in Lakeland is where some of her favorite times with her fiancé took place. Being our Chief Narrative Officer she loves a good story, and the story of her relationship is her favorite. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tori and her fiancé, Anthony (not the chaplain), would ride their bikes down to Lake Morton and enjoy a picnic among the ducks and swans. They used their Converse high-tops as drink holders for their White Claws and talked about life and what their future would hold. Lake Morton was one of the places where their forever began. (I know, can you taste the cheese?) If romance isn't your thing, head down to Lake Morton if you enjoy being hissed at by swans.
Tammy, our Chief Design Officer, has never been to Lakeland but if she had she would probably love every place in town, because how could you not?
