WORDS Tara Crutchfield
Godzilla Vs. Mothra Swans? More like yawns. Zebra Longwing Butterfly? But why? It’s official. Lakeland and Winter Haven have new city symbols.
unveiling of the concept. The statue will be Lakeland’s largest public art project of 2022. The stone statue of Godzilla will protrude from Lake Mirror with fountain features to give the effect of water cascading off his 210-foot frame. The tallest structure in Lakeland currently is the Lakeland Electric Building sitting at 148 feet. That will not be the case come summer 2022. The installation “Pandemonium” was designed to tower over all in its path. “You know, like in the movies,” said the project’s lead architect.
After reviewing the abilities and weaknesses of many creatures in the MonsterVerse, Mayor Bill Mutz chose Godzilla to be Lakeland’s new symbol, and Mayor Brad Dantzler tapped Mothra for Winter Haven on March 16. Both mayors signed executive orders despite many detractors. Rumors are swirling around what caused this sudden power move. A source close to Dantzler and Mutz say they’re just a couple of buds that like to get together with candy and popcorn for ‘Mayor Monster Movie Nights.’
A fire feature will shoot 50-foot flames from the open maw of the monster, and LED lights mimicking Godzilla’s atomic rays will shine from his back spikes. The atomic rays can sync up to music and display different colors. The city plans to use this festive feature during the holidays, pairing Godzilla’s atomic rays with classic Christmas tunes. To assist citizens in keeping time, speakers around the lake will emit an earthshaking roar every hour, on the hour.
“This is Pandemonium!” shouted Lakeland Mayor Bill Mutz as a fire-breathing beast rose from the murky depths of Lake Mirror behind him. “That’s the title of this sculpture, “Pandemonium.” I like it, it’s catchy. And look at that guy, so scary! It’s like, ‘Ahhhhh! Godzilla, no! Don’t destroy our city with your atomic breath!” he chuckled during the official
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