Cyber Crimes detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office have charged 20-year-old Brandon Arroyo of Haines City with 10 counts promoting files of child pornography (F2) and issued a warrant for his arrest, for which he was taken into custody in Orlando yesterday, December 18, 2025, and booked into the Orange County Jail.
The investigation began upon a receipt of a NCMEC cybertip (National Center for Missing and Endangered Children) regarding child pornography files being uploaded and shared via private chat in the Kik messaging app from someone in the Haines City area. Detectives confirmed the residents at that address, including Arroyo, and the email address associated with the Kik account as being registered to Arroyo.
Detectives served an electronic search warrant on the account and located 10 files of children between the ages of 5 and 11 years old being sexually abused. The files were also shared with other users on Kik by Arroyo.
An arrest warrant was issued, and Orlando Police Department officers placed Arroyo under arrest at his place of employment, Universal Studios, where he works part-time. According to Universal, they have terminated his employment due to his arrest.
“Suspects like Brandon Arroyo, who engage in downloading and sharing files of children being sexually abused and also work at theme parks, are suspects who demand a closer look into whether or not they are actively engaged in abusing children. We will continue our investigation, and we urge anyone with more information about this suspect to contact our agency.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
Arroyo will be held in the Orange County Jail until being transferred to the Polk County Jail at a later date.
Eugenia Glass passed away peacefully four days prior to her 90th birthday.
Eugenia was born and raised in Haines City, Florida. As the only child of Ira and Vera Bohannon, she had fond memories of growing up on their small farm on Baker Dairy Road next door to her grandparents. Eugenia graduated from Haines City High School in 1953.
Eugenia was an accomplished pianist and organist. At the age of fifteen, she landed her first job as the organist at the First Baptist Church of Haines City. Eugenia continued to play for various churches, weddings, pageants, and recitals throughout her adult life.
Married in 1954, Eugenia soon became a homemaker with five children. Though her life revolved around them, she was still able to participate in the Silver Spurs Garden Club, the Women’s Club, the local Music Club, and other philanthropic organizations.
Eugenia later worked at Grenelefe as the conference sales manager for several years until opening a flower shop, Fleur De’Lis, at the Grenelefe Gas Plaza. She and her mother, Vera, Harriet Rust, and Sheila Parton were florists there for several years.
When offered a Catering Manager position for Sheraton Hotels in the Washington DC – Maryland area, Eugenia felt it was an opportunity too good to pass up. In 1985, at the age of 50, she closed the flower shop, and moved to Annapolis, MD. Her daughter, Megan, joined Eugenia after graduating from court reporting school a year later. From sailboats and blue crabs to museums and parks, Eugenia and Megan developed many fond memories of their time there together.
Eugenia returned to Haines City in 1995 to care for her mother. She resumed working for Grenelefe and playing the organ for the First Methodist Church. Eugenia retired from Grenelefe in 2013 and lived there until 2022, when health issues required her to live with her daughter and son-in-law in DeLand, Fl.
Eugenia loved her toy poodle, Patrice, and her cat, Kitty Duke. She enjoyed working in her flower gardens, making floral arrangements, knitting, painting, and playing the piano and organ. Eugenia’s beauty, charm, resilience, and many talents were cherished by all who knew her.
Eugenia was preceded in death by her three oldest sons, Jay Rodney Glass, Joseph Kevin Glass, and Jeff Ernest Glass. She is survived by her son, Jere Charles Glass, her daughter, Megan Elise Glass Race (Bert Race), 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. There will be a family gathering graveside to celebrate her life at Forest Hill Cemetery in Haines City (to be announced later)
Join the adventure at The Hunt for Sasquatch race on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at Bone Valley ATV Park, 10427 County Road 630 W., Mulberry. This family-friendly event features a 10K, 5K and 1-mile color run, making it fun for all ages.
Check-in and day-of registration open at 6 a.m. The 10K begins at 7:30 a.m., the 5K at approximately 9:30 a.m., and the 1-Mile Color Run. (*Race Start time is Approximate.)
Take advantage of early registration rates until Dec. 31. Entry fees increase by $5 after Dec. 31. The last day to register online is Friday, Feb. 6.
1-mile color run – $25 5K – $35 10K – $45 Sasquatch Revenge (10K + 5K) – $50 Sasquatch Trifecta (10K,5K and 1-Mile) – $70
The holiday season brings sparkling lights, cherished traditions and joyful gatherings with the people and pets you love most. As you deck the halls and prepare for cozy celebrations, it’s important to remember some of the magic of the season can also pose risks for curious cats and dogs.
To provide pet owners added peace of mind, consider these tips from the experts at VCA Animal Hospitals, a leader in veterinary care with more than 1,000 locations dedicated to positively impacting pets, people and the communities they serve, to keep the holidays merry – and safe – for everyone.
Decorations and Festive Outfits
From family photos to holiday cards, many pet owners love including their companions in the festivities. If you dress your pet for pictures, choose outfits that are comfortable, allow easy mosement and don’t interfere with breathing or vision. Pets are naturally drawn to shiny and dangling decor, so opt for shatterproof ornaments and avoid using tinsel, which can cause serious internal issues if swallowed.
Hang small or salt-dough omaments high on the tree, out of paws’ reach, to help prevent choking. After opening gifts, promptly discard wrapping paper, string and ribbon; items that may seem fun to play with but can be dangerous if ingested.
Food and Drinks
Holiday tables overflow with delicious treats, but many seasonal foods can be harmful to pets.
Chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol-sweetened candies and leftover meat scraps may lead to serious illness. Politely remind guests not to slip your pet any treats, no matter how festive the occasion feels.
Quickly pack away food when meals end to help reduce temptation. Alcoholic beverages should also be kept well out of reach. Pets absorb alcohol much faster than humans, and even small amounts can cause alcohol poisoning.
Candles and Burns
The glow of candles and warm fireplaces add comfort and charm this time of year, but open flames pose fire risks and burn hazards for pets. Keep pets at a safe distance from fireplaces, wood stoves and space heaters, as curiosity can bring them too close.
Consider using battery-operated candles in place of traditional ones. If you use real candies, ensure they’re placed out of reach and never leave unattended; even stepping away for a moment can increase the risk of accidents.
Plants and Trees
Holiday greenery brings beauty to your home, but some plants require extra caution around pets.
While Christmas trees themselves are generally non-toxic, the water in the tree stand may contain mold, bacteria or fertilizers. Use a tree skirt or cover to prevent pets from drinking from it.
Decorative plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, lilies, holly and amaryllis can cause gastrointestinal upset if nibbled on. Keep these seasonal favorites well out of reach, especially if you live with adventurous or plant-curious pets.
Cold Weather Walking
Winter walks can be refreshing for you and your dog, but shorter days and colder weather mean extra care is needed. Use a non-retractable leash during early morning or evening walks, and ensure both you and your pet wear high-visibility gear so drivers and others can easily spot you.
If you live in an area with snow or ice, monitor conditions closely and watch the wind chill.
Dressing your dog in a warm sweater or jacket and offering booties for paw protection can help them stay comfortable and safe on frosty outings.
By taking a few thoughtful precautions, you can help ensure your pets enjoy a safe, joyful holiday season right alongside the rest of the family. If you have questions about winter safety or your pet’s health, consult your veterinarian.
If you’re looking for a vet, give Paws and Perches Animal Hospital a call! https://www.pawsandperches.com 863-676-6176 755 West Central Ave in Lake Wales
Hand colored etching by John Leech from A Christmas Carol
Dickens was born in 1812 and attended school in Portsmouth. His father, a clerk in the navy pay office, was thrown into debtors’ prison in 1824, and 12-year-old Charles was sent to work in a factory. The miserable treatment of children and the institution of the debtors’ jail became topics of several of Dickens’ novels.
In his late teens, Dickens became a reporter and started publishing humorous short stories when he was 21. In 1836, a collection of his stories, Sketches by Boz, later known as The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club, was published. The same year, he married Catherine Hogarth, with whom he would have nine children. The short sketches in his collection were originally commissioned as captions for humorous drawings by caricature artist Robert Seymour, but Dickens’ whimsical stories about the kindly Samuel Pickwick and his fellow club members soon became popular in their own right. Only 400 copies were printed of the first installment, but by the 15th episode 40,000 copies were printed. When the stories were published in book form in 1837, Dickens quickly became the most popular author of the day.
The success of the Pickwick Papers was soon reproduced with Oliver Twist (1838) and Nicholas Nickleby (1839). In 1841, Dickens published two more novels, then spent five months in the United States, where he was welcomed as a literary hero. Dickens never lost momentum as a writer, churning out major novels every year or two, often in serial form. Among his most important works are David Copperfield (1850), Great Expectations (1861), and A Tale of Two Cities (1859).
Beginning in 1850, he published his own weekly circular of fiction, poetry, and essays called Household Words. In 1858, Dickens separated from his wife and began a long affair with a young actress. He gave frequent readings, which became immensely popular. He died in 1870 at the age of 58, with his last novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, still unfinished.”
EAGLE LAKE, FL — November 21–22, 2025 — R2Cares successfully concluded its 2025 Weekend of Wellness, a transformative two-day initiative that brought together community leaders, educators, athletes, mental health advocates, families, and youth across Polk County. The event fostered inspiration, education, and meaningful community connection while reaching thousands of young people with messages of resilience and mental wellness.
Record Attendance and Broad Community Impact
Ronnie Richardson, Amy King, Chris Singleton
The weekend’s centerpiece was a school assembly at Lake Region High School featuring presentations to over 3,500 students and staff. Keynote speakers Chris Singleton, Raquel Manning, and Ronnie Richardson delivered powerful messages on resilience, unity, overcoming adversity, and mental strength, setting the tone for an impactful two days of programming.
“This event exemplifies what happens when leadership, love, and community come together,” said organizers at R2Cares. “We showed Polk County what’s possible when we prioritize the mental wellness and development of our young people.”
Comprehensive Programming Across Multiple Venues
Youth Mental Health First Aid Certification Facilitated by Orlando Health and RiseCommunity at the Magnolia Building, the training program certified 14 new Youth Mental Health First Aiders from a pool of 30 registered participants, expanding local capacity to support youth in crisis.
Coaching Symposium for Athlete Mental Wellness In partnership with TEAMUP Mental Fitness and Josie Nicholson from ARCH, the symposium certified 20 coaches with specialized training in athlete mental wellness, performance optimization, identity development, and leadership skills.
Wellness Leadership Panel More than 200 players and families attended an in-depth panel discussion featuring Chris Singleton, AJ Andrews, Tom Lane, Jen Lay, and Chip Lawrence, moderated by Gerald Smiley. The panel was complemented by testimonials from athletes Antwan Brown, Deamez Moss, and Ken Scoby, creating authentic conversations around mental health and athletic excellence. Smith’s Tavern generously provided food for panel participants and guests, helping make the discussion a warm, welcoming community experience.
Youth Baseball and Softball Camp
The event hosted 150+ young athletes at an interactive baseball and softball camp featuring professional guidance from MLB players, Minor League Baseball players, scouts, college coaches, trainers, and influencers, including Jemile Weeks, Dee Gordon, AJ Andrews, Ozzie Timmons, Colton Gordon, Kyle Ryan, Richie Martin, Jordan Schafer, Josh Johnson, Carlos Sierra, Francisco Rosario, Isaac Ballou, Toure Harris, Mike Wrenn, Ryan Moore, Nelly Gonzalez, and many others.
The MLB Players Alliance, a major sponsor, made an incredible impact by donating premium equipment — including branded gloves, bats, baseballs, nets, and buckets — to support local youth athletes. In addition, Bruce Bolt contributed over 100 pairs of professional-grade batting gloves, helping young players perform at their best with quality gear.
Emerging Leaders Game A select group of 23 athletes participated in a specialized game coached by Josh Johnson (MLB Coach) and Gerald Smiley (Former Minor League Baseball Coach and Life Skills Coach), designed to develop leadership and athletic excellence.
Community Giveback and Support R2Cares distributed 200 turkeys to families in need, powered by Gordon Foods, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to comprehensive community care beyond mental health education.
The event featured contributions and participation from Blue Velvet Cupcakes, Polk Sheriff’s Office, Culpepper Cardiac Foundation, Logan Deines Foundation, and numerous other community organizations and vendors.
Strong Corporate and Community Support
The success of the Weekend of Wellness was made possible through generous support from major corporate sponsors including GiveWell Foundation, TeamUp for Mental Fitness, Gordon Foods, MLB Players Alliance, Bruce Bolt, and Visit Central Florida. Community impact sponsors included Orlando Health, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Trey Mancini Foundation, and Lake Region High School. Additional community donors such as Lenny Rodriguez, Webb’s Candy Shop, East Lakeland Diamondbacks, and Smith’s Tavern provided critical sponsorships and hospitality support.
2025 Weekend of Wellness by the Numbers
3,500+ students and staff inspired through assembly presentations
14 new Youth Mental Health First Aiders certified
20 coaches trained in athlete mental wellness
200+ families in attendance at Wellness Leadership Panel
150+ youth camp participants
200 turkeys distributed to families
23 Emerging Leaders selected and coached
Dozens of professional athletes, mentors, and coaches volunteering their time
About R2Cares
R2Cares is dedicated to building strong minds and strong futures for young people in Polk County through mental health advocacy, youth empowerment, and community leadership development. The organization brings together educators, athletes, mental health professionals, and community partners to create transformative experiences that prioritize the holistic wellness of youth.
For more information about R2Cares and upcoming events, visit r2cares.org.
Come Visit Christmas in the Village at Fort Meade on Dec. 19 & 20 by James Coulter
What could be better than seeing more than 60 old-fashioned houses and farming equipment decorated with Christmas lights? How about doing so while helping make other people’s holidays merrier and brighter?
Then come visit Florida Flywheelers Christmas in the Village. Not only will you be able to see thousands of Christmas lights decorating dozens of antique tractors, trailers, and buildings, but also be able to donate canned goods, toys, and money for people in need in the local community.
Since 1972, Florida Flywheelers has been a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and exhibiting antique internal combustion engines, steam engines, antique tractors, and other vintage farming equipment.
Every December, they host their annual charity drive through Christmas in the Village. The elaborate Christmas display takes up to four weekends to prepare, with up to 20 volunteers working six to eight hours a day.
Marly Warner and her husband have been involved with Florida Flywheelers for 12 years. Both have served as caretakers for eight years, planning the different decorations and scenes for the annual Christmas event.
“If you have never seen Christmas in the Village, it is something you really need to come see,” she said. “You just need to come out and see the fabulous lights.”
Aside from being able to see their hard work for the event come into fruition, Warner enjoys being able to give back to her community through the donations they raise.
“The donations that we receive help change people’s lives locally here at Christmas time,” Warner said. “It melts my heart to hear the children’s voices saying, ‘thank you for doing this for us.’ It is for charity, and Christmas is for kids. That’s a big part of our lives: watching the kids grow up.”
Christmas in the Village will be hosted this weekend on Fri. Dec. 19 and Sat. Dec. 20 from 6 PM to 9 PM at the Florida Flywheelers’ Antique Engine Club, located at 7000 Avon Park Cut Off Rd. in Fort Meade. Admission is only a canned good, toy, or monetary donation—or all three!
Phillip Anthony Cuffe, of Davenport, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, at his residence with his loving family by his side. He was 64 years old.
He was born on October 2, 1961, in Kingston, Jamaica. He moved to the states in the 1980s, before settling in Davenport, FL in 2005.
Phillip was proud to be a culinary cook with Norwegian Cruise Lines for nearly 10 years after obtaining his culinary degree. Phillip had a gift for connecting with people. He could make friends with anyone, anywhere, and was known for his generous spirit.
A devoted follower of Christ, Phillip was a faithful member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church, where he was very active in the choir and volunteered regularly. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and he lived out his faith with humility and joy.
Phillip was a loving husband and proud father who believed deeply in the importance of family and worked hard to provide for the family. He valued faith, peace, education, and hard work, and he instilled those values in his children. Phillip is remembered as a loving man with a great sense of humor who loved to sing and who found joy in bringing people together.
He was predeceased by his parents, Edwin and Leida, as well as his sister, Cheryl Cuffe.
Phillip is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, June Cuffe; his son, Phillip Cuffe Jr; his daughter, Chelsea Peters, and her husband, Benjamin; his sisters, Marjorie Williams, Valerie Sterling, Sharon Gascott, Angela Cuffe, Theresa Williamson, Karen Rivera, and Donna Cuffe; and his brothers, Dr. Stafford Cuffe, Wayne Cuffe, Edwin Cuffe, Michael Cuffe.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 1 p.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m., all at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, Haines City
Polk County Commissioners approved Eisman and Russo, Inc. to provide construction and engineering services for the Chestnut Road Sidewalk Phase Two and Phase Three Project on earlier this month.
The Chestnut Road Sidewalk Improvement Project is one of the Polk County Roads and Drainage Division’s Fiscal Year 2025-2026 CIP projects and construction is expected to take around seven months to complete.
Earlier this month, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office handled a rather unusual eviction—one involving a 14-foot, 600-pound alligator. According to the Sheriff’s Office, it took seven deputies and one skilled trapper to safely remove the massive reptile, who seemed ready to settle in for the holidays.
The gator was initially found on the front porch of a resident’s home.
Thanks to teamwork and plenty of courage, the alligator was safely captured on the road and transported to an alligator farm, where he was released. The deputies signed off with a fitting farewell: “See ya later, Alligator!”
Photos courtesy of Sarasota County (FL) Sheriff’s Office Facebook
