22nd Annual Central Florida Ridge Friends of the NRA Benefit Dinner & Auction

-

January 25, 2017

0

22nd Annual Central Florida Ridge Friends of the NRA
Benefit Dinner & Auction

Event: 22nd Annual Central Florida Ridge Friends of the NRA Benefit Dinner & Auction

Date: February 18, 2017

The 22nd Annual Central Florida Ridge Friends of NRA Benefit Dinner & Auction will be held Saturday, February 18th, at Lake Eva Banquet Hall, in Haines City.

The Central Florida Ridge Friends of NRA benefit dinner banquet is an exciting family-friendly event filled with games for both the young and young at heart. Activities include, but are not limited to: a grab-bag fishing pond for the kids, throw-for-prizes dart board, card games, a wheel-of-chance for sporting accessories, a silent auction for the adults, a great catered steak dinner and of course the main event . . . a live auction of new firearms, sporting goods, jewelry and collectibles.
Proceeds from the annual Central Florida Ridge Friends of NRA benefit dinner and auction go to fund local youth programs. Recipients of funds raised by the Central Florida Ridge Friends of NRA include the Boy Scouts of America, Royal Rangers, local high school ROTC teams, 4-H clubs, Future Farmers of America and other youth programs.

Tickets are $60 per adult. Children under 12 are free.

Doors open at 6:00 pm, dinner is served at 7:00 and the live auction begins at 8:00.

Tickets can be obtained by calling: 863-258-0903
or ordered online at: https://www.friendsofnra.org/eventtickets/Events/Details/10?eventId=53699

Advance ticket sales only.

Ticket sales deadline is February 10, 2017 (There will be NO tickets sales at the door.)

The Central Florida Ridge Friends of NRA is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit organization
for the funding and promotion of youth sports programs.

PCSO Investigating 7 Vehicle Crash – SR 60 Completely Shut Down in Both Directions

Lake Wales

Staff Reporter

-

January 25, 2017

0

PCSO Investigating 7 Vehicle Crash – SR 60 Completely Shut Down in Both Directions

Update to traffic crash on SR 60 in Lake Wales this morning:

The drivers’ names are as follows:

Semi 1: 36 yr old Omar Almestian of Davenport

Semi 2: (jackknifed with the oj barrels): 55 yr old George Buzzutto of Fort Pierce

Saab SUV (the crumpled vehicle in the photo I sent out): 46 yr old Christopher Ellis of Fort Meade – he’s in stable condition at LRHMC and expected to recover

Chevy Silverado truck: 21 yr old Jarrett Kelly of Zephyrhills

Semi 3: 32 yr old Christopher Baker of Dundee

Ford Focus (hit by a barrel in the EB lane): 29 yr old Abraham Rodriguez of Haines City

No information on the person in the seventh vehicle, which was a vehicle hit by a barrel while traveling eastbound.

Westbound is still shut down in that area.

Original Release:

The PCSO Traffic Unit is working a seven-vehicle crash on SR 60 East in Lake Wales this morning. Very preliminary (and subject to change) information is as follows:

At 6:00 a.m. this morning, two semi tractor-trailers were heading westbound in the outside lane on SR 60 East, near Logistics Parkway, when for unknown reasons, the second semi rear-ended the first semi. The second semi jackknifed in the road way. It had barrels of liquid used in orange juice concentrate loaded onto it.

When that crash occurred, an SUV that was also heading westbound in the outside lane, swerved into the inside lane to avoid hitting the jackknifed semi. The SUV was unable to avoid hitting the jackknifed semi, and crashed into it, and was then hit by a pickup truck and another semi that were heading westbound in the inside lane.

When the SUV struck the jackknifed semi, it caused barrels from the trailer to be ejected into the eastbound lanes of SR 60 East, and the barrels struck two vehicles that were heading eastbound.

The adult male driver and sole occupant of the SUV was transported to LRHMC in extremely critical condition.

The driver of the jackknifed semi was transported to WHH with non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the third semi, that was in the inside lane, was transported to WHH with non-life-threatening injuries.

No other vehicle drivers or occupants were injured or transported.

The investigation is ongoing. Fog is still VERY HEAVY in the area. Motorists are asked to slow down, use headlights, and avoid this area completely.

SR 60 is shut down completely in this area.

We will bring you more information as it becomes available.

Safety Bulletin: Driving in Rain and Fog

Polk County

Staff Reporter

-

January 25, 2017

0

Driving in Rain and Fog

Rain can quickly create dangerous driving conditions, and is blamed for thousands of accidents annually. Most accidents result from drivers who don’t realize how much driving changes in wet weather compared to dry conditions. For example, during the first few hours of a rainstorm, accumulated oil and engine fluids can float on the rainwater and create a slippery road surface before they are eventually washed away. This risk is increased when an area that receives little precipitation is hit by a downpour.

Fog is another hazard drivers face: it can rapidly reduce a driver’s vision, making for hazardous conditions in an instant. To help navigate when driving in heavy fog – or in any situation with reduced visibility – you can use the right edge of the road or painted road markings as a guide.

A good rule to follow is whenever you turn on your windshield wipers, turn on your lights, as you’ll be more visible to other motorists. Keep your headlights on low beam, especially in the case of fog, as the additional light reflects of the water droplets in the air, actually making it harder to see.

MORE SAFE DRIVING TIPS IN LOW VISIBILITY FROM FHP

Visibility can change within seconds, so use extreme caution when driving within fog. To make sure drivers know what to do when you encounter fog, the Florida Highway Patrol urges the motoring public to travel with caution anytime there is reduced visibility. Wildfires, smoke, fog and heavy rain can all lower visibility on the roads so it is important for motorist to drive as safely as possible in these conditions.

DRIVE WITH LIGHTS on low beam. High beams will only be reflected back off the fog and actually impair visibility even more. Your lights help other drivers see your vehicle, so be sure they all work. Keep your windshield and headlights clean, to reduce the glare and increase visibility.

SLOW DOWN – and watch your speedometer – before you enter a patch of fog. Be sure that you can stop within the distance that you can see. Fog creates a visual illusion of slow motion when you may actually be speeding. Speed is a major factor in fog-related crashes.

WATCH OUT for slow-moving and parked vehicles. Open you window a little and listen for traffic you cannot see.

REDUCE THE DISTRACTIONS in your vehicle. Turn off the radio and cell phone. Your full attention is required.
USE WIPERS AND DEFROSTERS liberally for maximum visibility. Sometimes it is difficult to determine if poor visibility is due to fog or moisture on the windshield.
USE THE RIGHT EDGE of the road or painted road markings as a guide.
BE PATIENT. Avoid passing and/or changing lanes.
SIGNAL TURNS well in advance and brake early as you approach a stop.
DO NOT STOP on a freeway or heavily traveled road. You could become the first link in a chain-reaction collision. If you must pull off the road, signal (people tend to follow tail lights when driving in fog), then carefully pull off as far as possible. After pulling off the road, turn on your hazard flashers (hazard lights should only be used when you pull over to show that you are parked on the side of the road). Move away from the vehicle.

A Tale of Two Antlers

Staff Reporter

-

January 25, 2017

0

A tale of two antlers
Look at those antlers! Encountering an adult male deer, or buck, with a fully developed set of antlers can be a breathtaking experience. Composed of bone and covered with skin and soft hair called velvet, antlers grow from the base of the skull. The velvety tissue eventually dries up and peels off, leaving the antlers hard and smooth. Unlike the horns you’ll find on animals, such as cattle, a new set of antlers are grown every year with antler growth beginning in the spring. They are shed in late winter or early spring after the deer breeding season ends. Check out the antlers on these guys!

fwcdeer3

fwcdeer

fwcdeer2

Learn about white-tailed deer: http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabita…/profiles/mammals/land/deer/

White-tailed deer management program: http://myfwc.com/hunting/by-species/deer/

FWC photos

Theatre Winter Haven Announces Auditions for PETER AND THE STARCATCHER

Winter Haven

Staff Reporter

-

January 25, 2017

0

Theatre Winter Haven Announces Auditions for PETER AND THE STARCATCHER

Theatre Winter Haven, located in the Chain of Lake Complex (West Entrance) at 210 Cypress Gardens Boulevard, Winter Haven, FL, will hold auditions for its production of PETER AND THE STARCATCHER. This show will run April 6 – April 23, 2017, Thursdays through Sundays each week.
Auditions will be held Sunday, and Monday, January 29 & 30 at 7:00 pm. Eleven (11) males and one (1) female are needed to play 100+ characters. All interested actors are requested, but not required, to prepare a one minute monologue. Auditions will also include cold readings and singing. The singing portion of the audition will involve learning a brief song and vocalizing. In addition, there will be a movement and fight choreography component to the audition, therefore, please dress appropriately.

The show is co-produced by Citizens Bank & Trust and The Theatre Winter Haven Women’s Guild.

PETER AND THE STARCATCHER is the most hilarious-filled evening of madcap fun! In the 5 time Tony Award winning play, a dozen brilliant actors play more than 100 unforgettable characters using their enormous talent, ingenious stagecraft and the limitless possibilities of imagination. This swashbuckling grownup prequel to Peter Pan will have you hooked from the moment you let your imagination take flight.

In addition to the specific named roles listed below, all actors will play numerous additional ensemble roles including sailors, seamen, seafarers, orphans, pirates, mermaids and Mollusk natives.

Cast

THE ORPHANS:

The Boy – Male, age 15-25

Prentiss – Male, 15-25

Ted – Mae, 15-25

THE BRITISH SUBJECTS:

Lord Leonard Aster – Male, 35-50

Molly Aster – Female, Age 15-25

Mrs. Bumbrake/Teacher – Male 30-60

Capt. Robert Falcon Scott – Male, 30-60

Grempkin/Mack/Sanchez/Fighting Prawn – Male, 30-60

THE SEAFARERS:

Bill Slank – Male, 30-60

Alf – Male, 30-60

The Black Stache – Male, 30-60

Smee – Male, 25-50

Peter and the Starcatcher will be directed by Katrina Ploof,

For more information call (863) 299-2672

Fort Meade Man Critically Injured In Frostproof Crash Tuesday Morning

Staff Reporter

-

January 24, 2017

0

Fort Meade Man Critically Injured In Frostproof Crash Tuesday Morning

Frostproof, Florida – According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office around 8:15 a.m. this morning, a Chevy Silverado being driven by 27 yr old Jordan Whatley of Fort Meade was heading eastbound behind a semi tractor trailer that was also heading eastbound, on ABC Cutoff Road in Frostproof. The semi slowed down to make a right hand turn onto Bereah Road when, for unknown reasons (possible sun blindness) Whatley didn’t appear to see the semi slowing, and crashed into the back of it. The trailer encroached the bed of the truck, and all of the airbags were deployed. Whatley was airlifted to Lakeland Regional Hospital Medical Center. Whatley is currently listed in stable but critical condition.

We will update this article as more information is received.

4th Annual Group Valentine’s Day Wedding At Polk County Clerk Of Courts

Bartow

Staff Reporter

-

January 24, 2017

0

4th Annual Group Valentine’s Day Wedding At Polk County Clerk Of Courts

4th Annual Valentine’s Day Wedding

Bartow, Florida – Less than one month to go for courting couples to sign up to tie the knot on the most romantic day of the year!

Beginning at noon on Valentine’s Day, Clerk of Courts & Comptroller Stacy M. Butterfield will be performing the 4th annual group marriage ceremony on the picturesque steps of the Polk County History Center.

“This is one of my favorite days of the year,” Stated Clerk Butterfield, “Here in the Clerk’s office we tend to do a lot of business that isn’t exactly uplifting. Most people don’t look forward to coming into my office, because it means they need to pay a traffic ticket, go to court, or they’re showing up for jury duty. The Valentine’s Day Group Wedding stands out as a very special event for me, for my staff, and for everyone involved. It’s a day filled with joy as 30 couples begin a new and exciting journey together.”

Couples and their guests will then be treated to a reception with light refreshments provided by local sponsors in the vintage 1926 courtroom.

“This is a great opportunity for couples who are looking for a stress-free, relaxing way to get married.” Said Clerk Butterfield, “All the planning has been done for them, all the couples have to do is show up with their marriage license. We handle the paperwork and the planning, and they are free to enjoy their special day together. It’s all the frills with none of the fuss!”

The ceremony is limited to 30 couples, and registration is first come, first serve. Couples may register when applying for a marriage license by visiting any of the three Clerk’s office locations—the Bartow Courthouse, or the Lakeland or Winter Haven Branches—and requesting to get married at the Valentine’s Day ceremony. All couples must have a marriage license by Friday, February 10th in order to participate in the Valentine’s Day wedding.

Couples must both be present to apply for their license, and both must have a valid form of photo ID. Couples must also make sure they know their Social Security Number. The Clerk is waiving the $30 ceremony fee; however standard marriage license fees do apply.

For more information, call the Official Records department at 863-534-4516.

Third Annual “Jeepin’ With Sheriff Judd” Charity Event Set for February 17-19, 2017

Bartow

Staff Reporter

-

January 24, 2017

0

Third Annual “Jeepin’ With Sheriff Judd” Charity Event Set for February 17-19, 2017

The third annual “Jeepin’ with Sheriff Judd” Jeep charity event will be held Friday through Sunday, February 17-19, 2017, at Clear Springs Ranch off of Cox Road in Bartow.

The public is invited to join Sheriff Judd, PCSO members, and our many gracious sponsors and vendors at this charity event – all proceeds raised will go to Polk Sheriff’s Charities, Inc.

This year a 2012 Jeep Wrangler was donated to the charity by Kelley GMC in Bartow and will be raffled for just $20 a ticket. Only 2,000 tickets will be sold! The drawing will be held on Sunday, February 19, 2017. Visit our website www.jeepinwithjudd.com, and like us on Facebook!

Spectators are free and the whole family is welcome to attend! There will be bounce houses and activities for the kids, food and merchandise vendors, and great raffle prizes, including the 2012 Jeep Wrangler! We will have overnight camping again this year, for $20.00 per night.

Last year, there were 1,039 Jeeps at this event, and over 3,500 people in attendance; 170 volunteers donated their time, helping raise $95,000 for Polk Sheriff’s Charities, Inc.

WHEN: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, February 17-19, 2017

COST: Pre-registration is $60.00, which covers everyone in your Jeep, trail rides, and access to the obstacle course. The deadline for pre-registration is February 8, 2017. After February 8^th, registration costs $80.00. All participants will be required to complete a waiver prior to access to the course and rides. Spectators are free – everyone is welcome to attend!

Click here for more information or to register online or email [email protected].

Click here to visit us on Facebook!

We hope to see you there! Media representatives – video and photo opportunities will be made available. Please contact a PIO for assistance.

Winter Haven FFA Alumni Presents: 2nd Annual Big Bass Blast – In Honor of Bailey Tilley

Winter Haven

Staff Reporter

-

January 24, 2017

0

Winter Haven FFA Alumni Presents:
2nd Annual Big Bass Blast
In Honor of Bailey Tilley

All proceeds, after payouts will go to Bailey Tilley’s family.

***On-Shore Event*** There will be an on-shore event going on at the Lake Shipp Boat Ramp from 10am-5pm. So, even if you are not fishing in the tournament, you can still come and join us for some fun! We will have music, activities for kids, raffles galore (prizes, baskets, lettery & 50/50) and best of all, great company.

TOURNAMENT WILL BEGIN AT SAFE-LIGHT AND BOATS WILL BE FLIGHTED.
ALL BOATS WILL CHECK BACK IN AT 2:00 PM

For more information contact:
RICCI WOODS, President – 863-307-9101
LISA CRIBBS, Vice President – 863-224-2081

Tournament Information:

**OPEN BASS TOURNAMENT**

Registration is REQUIRED!

Location – Chain of Lakes, Lake Shipp Boat Ramp
Entry Fee – $100.00 per boat (Two Anglers)
Big Bass Pot – $20.00 extra per boat (100% Return)
Start Time – Safe-Light on February 18, 2017
Weigh-In – 2:00 PM on February 18, 2017
*All participants must be checked-in by 6:00 AM on February 18, 2017. Live wells will be inspected prior to start*
**THIS TOURNAMENT IS FOR LARGE MOUTH BASS ONLY**

Rules:

One or two man teams. No trolling or live bait will be allowed.
Respect other boats, 100 yards distance. There is a 3 fish limit, only one fish can be up to 16 inches, all others must be under 16 inches.
1 lb deduction for any fish weighed in dead. One team member must observe weigh-in.
1 lb deduction for every minute late to weigh-in. Total weight will decide the winner.
5 or more minutes late to weigh-in = DISQUALIFIED.
All fish must be returned to the lake.
All 2017 inland fishing laws apply. Entrants fish at their own risk.
Tournament will be rain or shine. Tournament Officials have the final say on disputes.
No refunds will be given. Have fun and know your support is appreciated!

Chamber to Host Winter Haven Business Focus Groups

Winter Haven

Staff Reporter

-

January 24, 2017

0

Chamber to Host Winter Haven Business Focus Groups

The Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce will be hosting community-wide Winter Haven Business Focus Groups on January 31 through February 16. All Winter Haven area business owners are invited to attend, regardless of whether a Chamber member or not.

Through four (4) focus groups, the team from The Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce hopes to hear from business owners about what it is like to do business in Winter Haven and what the advantages, disadvantages, opportunities and challenges are in doing business here.

The Winter Haven Chamber will use this information to help improve doing business in Winter Haven and form the organizations priorities for the coming years. Each focus group will be the same content, with four different dates and locations across the city for business owner’s convenience. RSVP is requested to attend this event at [email protected].

Dates, Times, Locations:

Tuesday, January 31, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. – Chain of Lakes Complex Club Room, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd

Wednesday, February 8, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. – Shergill Grand Conference Hotel, 5665 Cypress Gardens Blvd

Wednesday, February 15, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m., Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center, 801 Avenue T NE

Thursday, February 16, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. – Blackburn’s Interiors, 1507 Havendale Blvd

Please note: The Chamber of Commerce is a separate 501(c)6 not-for-profit and not a part of the City of Winter Haven government. However they work closely with the City to advocate on behalf of the Winter Haven business community.

DailyRidge.comFast Factual Free News!

DailyRidge.comFast Factual Free News!