Raise a celebratory cruffin. Born & Bread Bakehouse, located in Lakeland’s Dixieland district, was named a 2026 James Beard Awards semifinalist — and as far as we know, it’s the first Lakeland-area eatery to ever receive a nod. The James Beard Awards began in 1990 to recognize the top culinary professionals in the US, with awards for everything from pastry chefs to cocktail pros. Born & Bread is one of just 20 nationwide bakeries recognized on the Outstanding Bakery category. How does it feel to make the shortlist? “I feel pride that many people around the country will look at nominations, see Lakeland, FL next to our bakery name, and ask themselves, ‘Where’s Lakeland?’” Born & Bread owner Jennifer Smurr told us. “Our small and unassuming town, that I once wanted to escape from, is the heart and soul of Born & Bread.”…