73.9 F
Winter Haven
Monday, December 29, 2025
Home Blog Page 10

Glamorous All Stars to Perform at Daytona 500, Team Gears Up for Big Season

Staff Reporter
-
0
Glamorous All Stars to Perform at Daytona 500, Team Gears Up for Big Season
Glamorous All Stars Cheer

By Anita Todd

HAINES CITY – Cheering at NASCAR races is usually left to the fans in the stands, but this year, the Glamorous All Stars Cheer and Dance team will take center stage at the 2025 Daytona 500, highlighting how an award-winning group of young athletes brings the energy.

The invitation is just one highlight in what promises to be an action-packed season. The team’s calendar is filling fast: a visit from a NASCAR representative, a successful showcase event, and a long lineup of competitions across the South.

Last week, a representative from the Daytona 500 visited the team’s training facility.

Glamorous All Star Cheer and NASCAR Representative

“Our visit from the NASCAR representative was truly inspirational. He educated our athletes and parents about the rich history of the NASCAR race, reminding us that thousands of people will be watching them perform on one of the biggest stages comparable to a Super Bowl,” said Tamika O’Hara, Director and Owner.

Former Haines City Mayor and City Commissioner Horace West joined the visit to welcome the NASCAR spokesperson and address the athletes.

“He poured out greatness into our athletes, encouraging them to believe they can achieve anything in life,” O’Hara said.

The following day, on Nov. 14, the group held its first showcase at Ridge Community High School.

“It was a huge success, with amazing teams coming together to perform. We were blessed to have Markeisha Smith, Markeisha West with State Farm Insurance, and my former athlete Justice Smith, now a cheerleader at Bethune Cookman University, empower our athletes and all the cheer programs who attended,” O’Hara said.

Participating teams included the Haines City Vipers, Haines City High School, Davenport High School, Winter Haven Wolverines, Lakeland Storm, and the Davenport Broncos Pop Warner.

On Nov. 15, the Glamorous All Stars Elite Team Sassy Rubies and Hip Hop Team Bossy Charmz performed at a charity basketball tournament hosted by the Haines City Police and Fire Departments.

“It was an incredible weekend, and Glamourous All Stars Cheer and Dance is fired up to kick off Season 2, proudly representing our city and community,” O’Hara said.

While competition season begins in December, O’Hara said the program’s goals go far beyond trophies.

“We want them to know this is just a platform. They can be a lawyer, a doctor, whatever,” she said. “We don’t want them to let this limit them if cheering is not their end goal.”

The team’s first competition will be held in Gainesville on Dec. 6. Several more events will follow over the coming months before the regular season concludes on March 21 in Fort Lauderdale. According to O’Hara, the April competition is determined by bids won during the season. The goal of Season 2 is to win bids for the Allstars Worlds Championship, and Prep and Rec Grand Nationals Championships.

To help fund the Daytona 500 performance, the teams are selling sponsorships and Daytona 500 tickets.

Glamorous All Star Cheer and Dance selling NASCAR Daytona 500 Tickets

“We are still working hard to get our athletes to the Daytona 500 to perform on the biggest stage ever,” O’Hara said. (Order form is included.)

For information on donations or sponsorships, call O’Hara at 863-419-5151.

2024-25 Competition Results

Spirit Champion, Nov. 2024

1st Place – Rubies

1st Place and Grand Champion – Diamonds

All Out Champion, Dec. 2024

Superior – Gems

3rd Place – Emerald Barbies

1st Place – Sassy Rubies

1st Place – Flossy Diamonds

All Star Cheerleading Championships, Jan. 2025

Superior – Gems

3rd Place – Emerald Barbies

2nd Place – Sassy Rubies

1st Place and Bid Prep and Rec Grand Nationals – Flossy Diamonds

Deep South Spirit, Feb. 2025

Superior – Gems

2nd Place – Emerald Barbies

2nd Place – Sassy Rubies

2nd Place – Glitter Pearls

1st Place and Paid Bid to the All-Star World Championship – Flossy Diamonds

VIP Championship, March 2025

Superior – Gems

1st Place – Emerald Barbies

1st Place – Glitter Pearls

1st Place – Sassy Rubies

Every team won bids to The One Finals

The One Finals, April 2025

2nd Place – Emerald Barbies

3rd Place – Glitter Pearls

2nd Place – Flossy Diamonds

Allstar World Championship, April 2025

4th in the World – Flossy Diamonds

Prep and Rec Grand Nationals, April 2025

1st Place – Flossy Diamonds

Next Level Championship, April 2025

Superior – Gems

1st Place – Emerald Barbies

1st Place – Sassy Rubies

1st Place – Glitter Pearls

1st Place – Flossy Diamonds

Glammy Awards Banquet was held May 17, 2025.

Milk & Cookies with Santa Coming to Bartow Public Library

Allison
-
0
Milk & Cookies with Santa Coming to Bartow Public Library

Get ready to kick off the holiday season with a little extra cheer! The Bartow Public Library is hosting Milk and Cookies with Santa on Saturday, December 6 at 10 AM, and families are invited to join the fun. Children will enjoy a festive story read by Santa himself, followed by time for photos, hands-on crafts, and of course—cookies.

Every family who attends will also receive a free book to take home and enjoy during the holiday season.

This event is open to all ages, and no registration is needed. Join the fun at 2150 S Broadway Ave, Bartow, FL—just bring your holiday spirit!

Lakeland Man Driving Commercial Vehicle Overturns on SR-618 After Near-Miss With Pickup Truck

Allison
-
0
Lakeland Man Driving Commercial Vehicle Overturns on SR-618 After Near-Miss With Pickup Truck

A crash on SR-618 in Tampa caused major disruption early Wednesday afternoon after a commercial vehicle overturned near the Channelside exit ramp.

The incident happened on November 19, 2025, at approximately 12:12 p.m. A 48-year-old Lakeland man was driving a commercial vehicle eastbound when a pickup truck abruptly changed lanes in front of him. To avoid a collision, he took evasive action and lost control.

The truck struck a concrete barrier and a light pole before overturning and coming to rest near the exit ramp. Despite the severity of the crash, the driver was not injured.

FHP is reviewing the lane-change maneuver that led to the incident. Traffic delays were reported as crews worked to clear the scene.

In Loving Memory of Norman Lee Borror of Babson Park

Allison
-
0
In Loving Memory of Norman Lee Borror of Babson Park

Norman Lee Borror, 88, of Babson Park, FL, passed away November 13, 2025. He was born on June 17, 1937, at the family home in Delaware County, Indiana, to Claude E. and Dessie M. (Lett) Borror. 

Norman served four years in the U.S. Army. He was a carpenter and painter by trade and he loved gardening, canning and playing card games. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Dessie; siblings, Lillian, Geraldine, Raymond, Ralph, and Harold; grandson Derrick Borror. 

Norman is survived by his wife of 39 years, Penny Borror; children, Leanna (Wade) Hite, Tina Honn, Ken Borror, Luci (Alan) Warren, Mark Borror, step-daughters, Lisa Ellis, Tracey Leneave, Laurie (Mark) MacBeath; sixteen grandchildren, twenty five great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren

Traffic Stop in Orange County Leads to Seizure of 46 Pounds of Marijuana

Allison
-
0
Traffic Stop in Orange County Leads to Seizure of 46 Pounds of Marijuana

A routine traffic stop in Orange County turned into a major drug bust after troopers discovered 46 pounds of marijuana inside an SUV earlier this week.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the vehicle was first noticed at the intersection of Conroy Road and Vineland Road on Monday afternoon. Troopers said the driver made an improper left turn, crossed multiple lanes, and disrupted traffic, prompting the stop.

The driver, identified as 40-year-old Shuoliang Zhen, told troopers he didn’t have any identification and stated he was renting the SUV. Investigators noted that Zhen appeared visibly nervous, shaking and stuttering when answering questions. The passenger, 35-year-old Yi Wen Chen, sat rigidly and avoided eye contact.

A K-9 unit was brought in, and the dog alerted to the presence of narcotics. A search of the SUV uncovered three large boxes packed with vacuum-sealed bags, each holding about a pound of marijuana.

Both men were arrested on charges of cannabis possession and trafficking. Zhen is being held on a $30,500 bond, and Chen faces the same charges.

Bonded Out… and Back in Trouble: Winter Haven Man Arrested Shortly After Being Bonded Out of Jail

Allison
-
0
Bonded Out… and Back in Trouble: Winter Haven Man Arrested Shortly After Being Bonded Out of Jail

A Winter Haven man found himself back in custody after an incident that began shortly after he was bonded out of jail in Hillsborough County.

Deputies say 56-year-old Kevin Cole contacted his ex-girlfriend to bail him out, and she drove to Hillsborough County to secure his release. During the drive back toward Polk County, Cole’s behavior reportedly became erratic.

By the time they reached Davenport, his ex-girlfriend asked him to get out of the vehicle. When he refused, she pulled into a Circle K and called 911 for assistance.

Deputies responding to the scene say Cole began yelling profanities at them and refused to cooperate. His behavior led to him being taken into custody in Polk County.

Authorities noted the situation as an example of how quickly a second chance can be squandered when someone refuses to calm down or follow instructions.

Lakeland Public Library Offering Crochet Class During Fall Break

Allison
-
0
Lakeland Public Library Offering Crochet Class During Fall Break

Lakeland Public Library:

Kids and teens ages 9-17 are invited to the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library for a two-class hands-on crochet series during fall break to learn how to make a fall-themed plush!

The classes are November 24th and 25th from 10-11:30 am, with the second class building on the skills from the first. Crocheters should know how to chain and do a single crochet already. All supplies will be provided for the project.

Registration is required and will open Monday, November 17th at 10 am. Registration is for both classes in the series.

Questions? Contact Cassie Walters-Shantal (863) 834-4294 or email [email protected]

Polk County Teachers Urge Approval of Property Tax Increase Voter Referendum to Fund Schools

Allison
-
0
Polk County Teachers Urge Approval of Property Tax Increase Voter Referendum to Fund Schools

Polk County Teachers Urge Approval of Property Tax Increase Voter Referendum to Fund Schools

by James Coulter

 Nearly a dozen educators urged county commissioners to approve a property tax increase voter referendum to fund county schools.

At their regular meeting on Tues. Nov. 18, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to pass a resolution placing a proposed 1.0 mill. ad valorem tax increase on the ballot. The referendum will appear on the general election ballot on Nov. 3, 2026.

The School Board of Polk County has conditionally adopted a resolution to impose an additional 1.0 mill. annually on taxable property to help fund school operating purposes from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2031.

During public comments, several educators took to the podium to implore the commissioners to approve the referendum. Many spoke out against the low incomes and high expenses that other educators in the school system face.

“My salary has not been sufficient to keep up with inflation and the cost of living in Polk County,” said Laura Allgood, a veteran music educator.

Michael Hade, former teacher and head football coach, mentioned how many other educators have left Polk County to seek employment elsewhere because their salaries have proven insufficient to cover their basic expenses.

“Quality of life will be poorly impacted if we do not find a way to pay our teachers and educators,” he said. “You will not keep good educators here. They have other counties on the mind.”

Another former educator, Patrick Bentley, mentioned how many educators either work a part-time job or rely on their partners, spouses, or even roommates to help cover their expenses due to their low income as teachers.

“I have said goodbye to many of my colleagues because they cannot afford to continue working here,” he said.

Commissioner Michael Scott, whose wife is a former educator, averred that a property tax increase would not solve every problem in the public school system, claiming it would amount to a squirt gun trying to put out a wildfire; however, he insisted that it would be a step in the right direction.

“We should invest in the teachers and we should invest in the students,” he said. “We want to be world-class. We want to attract employers as much as we can.”

Commissioner Becky Troutman, as a former special education teacher, wished success for the referendum, as she expressed hope that the majority of county residents would vote in favor of it.

“I wish success,” she said. “If the voters know where the money is going, they will approve it. They want to see teachers stay and children get a good education.”

Commissioner Martha Santiago, as the mother of two teachers, insisted that fiscal responsibility was a motivation for both her and her fellow commissioners. She wanted the right information before approving such a measure, and now that she has that information, she wholeheartedly approves it.

 “I support education, and I will vote for this,” she said.

Residents To Mobilize Tonight in Dundee as Commission Considers Delaying Election to 2027

Carl Fish
-
0
Residents To Mobilize Tonight in Dundee as Commission Considers Delaying Election to 2027

Dundee, Florida- Residents are expected to fill Dundee Town Hall tonight as the Town Commission prepares for the second reading of a proposed ordinance that would move the next municipal election from April 2026 to November 2027 and extend the terms of three sitting officials by approximately eighteen months. The ordinance passed its first reading on October 28 with a unanimous 5 to 0 vote and must be approved again tonight in order to become binding.

The three officials whose terms would be extended under the proposal are Mayor Samuel Pennant, Vice Mayor Willie Quarles, and Commissioner Bertram Goddard. If adopted, the ordinance would delay the regularly scheduled April 2026 election to November of the following year.

Public opposition has intensified ahead of the vote. Former Mayor Joe Garrison, who had filed to run in the April 2026 election, recently held a rally at his grove located at 408 4th Street. Garrison is represented by Shutts and Bowen LLP, which sent a letter to the Town Attorney urging the commission to withdraw the ordinance. The letter argues that delaying the election and extending current terms without voter approval raises legal concerns and may conflict with state statutes governing municipal election procedures.

Citizens Defending Freedom has also urged residents to attend tonight’s meeting. CDF is a nonprofit organization that advocates for government transparency, citizen engagement, and oversight of local public policy decisions. Florida Faith Director Robert Goodman sent a message to residents outlining concerns about financial management, delayed audits, and the potential impact of postponing the election. Goodman wrote, “Your voice matters. Don’t allow local officials to extend their terms without voter consent. Stand up for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and accountability to Polk County voters in Dundee.” His message encourages voters to participate in public comment and make their position known to elected officials.

Additional residents have encouraged community involvement as well. Michelle Lee Thompson, who recently contacted the Supervisor of Elections regarding the first reading, posted a reminder to local residents about the importance of attending tonight’s meeting. She wrote that the second reading involves a significant decision about Dundee’s election schedule and that voter participation is important for keeping the community informed. Thompson referenced previous legal challenges in Florida involving election date changes and extended terms and encouraged residents to attend regardless of their position.

The suggestion to shift April municipal elections to November began earlier this year when Polk County Supervisor of Elections Melony Bell encouraged cities to consider aligning their election schedules. Bell has publicly stated that November elections reduce costs and increase turnout. There is no indication she intended for municipalities to extend the terms of sitting officials as part of that transition.

Several processes exist that could affect the outcome of the ordinance if it is adopted tonight. A legal challenge filed in circuit court could result in a temporary injunction that pauses the ordinance until a judge determines whether extending terms is permitted under state law and the Town Charter. The Florida Supervisor of Elections or the Florida Division of Elections may also issue advisory opinions regarding election procedures, and the Town Commission retains the ability to amend or withdraw the ordinance before final adoption. In addition, under Florida law, the Governor has the authority to remove elected municipal officials from office for misconduct, malfeasance, or violating the law. These possibilities do not indicate or predict any outcome, but represent forms of oversight that exist when municipal election matters are disputed.

Tonight’s meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. at Dundee Town Hall, 202 E Main Street. A public comment period is scheduled prior to the vote, and many residents plan to attend and address the commission.

The Daily Ridge will be present at the meeting and will provide updates as the situation develops.

5 Health Benefits of Whole Milk for Kids

Allison
-
0
5 Health Benefits of Whole Milk for Kids

Forget the outdated nutrition advice that told parents to skip whole milk. A growing body of research is turning that idea on its head, making it time to rethink what “healthy” means for growing kids.

For decades, families have been told low-fat milk is the best choice once children turn 2. However, those recommendations were largely based on data from adults, not children. Today’s evidence paints a different picture – one where whole milk supports kids’ growth, development and long-term health.

“Parents are often surprised to learn whole milk isn’t just safe – it’s beneficial,” said Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, nutrition consultant and spokesperson for Dairy Farmers of America.

“When we look at the latest research, whole milk provides the high-quality protein, healthy fats and essential nutrients kids need during key stages of development – without increasing risk for obesity or heart disease.”

With 13 essential nutrients and vitamins – including calcium, vitamin D and protein – real dairy milk is a simple, nutrient-dense staple. It’s also an easy addition to family favorites like Breakfast Cookies and Homemade Cream of Tomato Soup.

Here are five research-backed reasons to feel confident about choosing whole milk.

Whole milk is not associated with higher obesity rates. Multiple large-scale studies from “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,” the “International Journal of Obesity” and “Preventive Medicine Reports” show children who drink whole milk have lower or similar body fat levels compared to those drinking reduced-fat milk.

Whole milk does not increase risk of heart disease. According to “Advances in Nutrition,” whole milk does not increase cardiometabolic risk in kids; in fact, it’s associated with better vitamin D levels with no adverse effects on cholesterol or glucose.

It’s nutrient-dense and supports optimal growth. All types of milk, including whole, provide essential nutrients like calcium, protein and vitamins A and D- all critical for bone development and healthy growth in children, per “Nutrition Research Reviews.”

Kids like the taste – and that matters. Children often prefer the taste of whole milk over low-fat versions, according to the “Journal of Dairy Science,” which can lead to more consistent consumption.

Adults may benefit, too. Among adults, full-fat dairy is associated with greater satiety, improved blood sugar regulation and a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, according to a study published in “Nutrition & Metabolism,” helping reframe full-fat dairy as part of a balanced diet.

1...91011...814Page 10 of 814

Advertise

Links

Stay connected

© 2021 WinterHavenDaily.com | All rights reserved.