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One Movie Later: James Gunn’s Superman is a Super Good Movie

Staff Reporter
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One Movie Later: James Gunn’s Superman is a Super Good Movie
Superman Movie Poster

by James Coulter

Superman has had quite a cinematic history at the box office. His first theatrical film in 1978 set the template for all superhero movies to follow, and the second movie proved to be better than the first. However, the decline in quality with the next two films brought the franchise to a halt. Superman Returns was later released in 2005, but the reboot failed to reboot the franchise. And the less said about the cinematic disasters that were Man of Steel and Batman v. Superman, the better.

Now, nearly a decade after Superman’s last theatrical outing with Justice League, the Man of Steel has triumphantly returned to the big screen with his newest movie, directed by James Gunn. But will Superman save the day? Or is his latest film fated to be box office kryptonite?

Superman 2025 takes place in a world where beings with super abilities called “meta humans” have existed for 300 years. 30 years ago, the metahuman who would eventually become Superman arrived on Earth from the planet Krypton; and three years ago, Superman has been going about his super business as a superhero.

In his current story, Superman is trying to stop a growing conflict between two rival nations. However, matters become complicated after a shocking revelation about Superman’s past is unveiled to the public, turning them against him. Even worse, his dog Krypto goes missing. Can Superman uncover the plot to sully his good name, stop the invasion, and save his pet?

This movie starts with everything about Superman’s origins having already been established: Superman was sent to Krypton, raised in Smallville, he’s discovered and mastered his powers, became a reporter at the Daily Planet, formed a rivalry with Lex Luthor, and not only is he in a relationship with Lois Lane, but she already knows his secret identity. So, with all the important stuff out of the way, this movie has the freedom to be a story about Superman without going through the usual rigmarole other Superman movies go through.

Furthermore, this movie takes place in a universe where superheroes are not only a thing but have been a thing for a while. Superman is no longer the first and only superhero, but one of many in a universe of superheroes—a universe where superheroes have become so commonplace that an epic battle against a giant monster can happen in the background while Superman has a casual conversation with Lois.

With Superman being a superhero in a world overrun by other superheroes, his character now hinges upon what sets him apart from all the others. And perhaps his most shining quality is that, not only is he the strongest superhero, but also one whose moral compass starkly contrasts with everyone else’s—namely, that he has one. Unlike the rival Justice League—er, Gang!—a band of cynical corporate paramilitary lackies with no qualms about creating collateral damage or using excessive force, Superman is less focused on stopping bad guys and more on protecting innocent civilians.

Early in the movie, a shocking revelation about his character is revealed to the public. No spoilers, but the revelation not only poses a challenge for him, turning public opinion against him, but also forces him to reflect on his own character and question everything he has come to

believe about himself.

This Superman film was directed by James Gunn, most famous for directing other superhero movies like Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad. As such, this movie has all the pros and cons associated with a James Gunn film. On the plus side, this movie is bright, colorful, and optimistic with a bit of tongue-in-cheek snarky humor. In other words, a stark and refreshing contrast to the dark, bleak, and overly-serious Zac Snyder DCEU films.

On the other hand, as a James Gunn film, this movie checks off everything expected from a James Gunn flick. A ragtag band of misfits who snark with one another? Check. An epic battle with a needle drop? Check. A villain getting interrupted while monologuing? Check. A snarky sense of humor with the occasional profanity and sex joke snuck in? Check and check.

Look. I’m a big James Gunn fan. I love his work. And I’m glad he’s helming the DC films. I knew what to expect from a Superman film directed by him. But sometimes, being given what you expected can feel underwhelming when you know exactly what to expect. It’s not bad. It’s just…expected.

The third act is also a big mess. A big, beautiful mess that only James Gunn can deliver. But a mess nonetheless. No spoilers, but the third act has three things happening simultaneously, and while normally that wouldn’t be a problem if those three things are well-balanced…well, they’re not. One event proves to be a bigger priority than all the others (as in a reality-destroying priority), and yet it’s also the event given less attention, which makes the last act feel off-kilter.

Is the movie flawed? Yes. Is it imperfect? Yes. But overall, is it still a good movie? Yes. Unequivocally, yes. It’s not as great as the original 1978 movie, but it’s leagues better than Batman v. Superman. Like other James Gunn films, it’s a fun watch.

Fair warning, though: this movie leans hard in the PG-13 rating with its humor and language. As long as you’re comfortable with your kids hearing the words “sh*t” or “a**hole” in a Superman movie or asking what a “harem” is, you can bring them along. At the least, it’s better than having them see Superman snap another man’s neck or die a brutal death.

Oh, and this movie also has Krypto. He’s a good boy!

Where the Road Meets the Mound: A Summer Baseball Story

Ethan Jones
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Where the Road Meets the Mound: A Summer Baseball Story

By: Ethan Jones

From the crack of the bat to the smell of a freshly cut field, one thing is for sure: there is nothing better than going to the ballpark during the summer. That’s exactly what I’ve been doing this season.

The first ballpark I visited was Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. If you’re a fan not just of one team but of the game of baseball itself, Fenway Park is the place for you. It embodies the beauty of the game and the rich history of baseball. One of the things that makes Fenway so special is that it’s the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. Built to fit within the city, it features unique dimensions that you won’t find anywhere else.

If you have the chance to go to Fenway, I highly recommend taking a stadium tour. It offers a complete walk-through of the park and shares the fascinating history behind it. When it comes to the game-day experience, the Boston Red Sox offer something truly unforgettable. From singing “Sweet Caroline” during the bottom of the eighth inning to the passionate energy the fans bring, the atmosphere is electric.

What made my visit to Fenway even more special was the opportunity to witness a game between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees, a matchup widely regarded as the biggest rivalry in baseball—and arguably in all of sports. The game itself was nothing short of amazing. Red Sox fans were relentless in heckling Yankees fans and players, and the night ended with Carlos Narváez, a former Yankee, hitting a walk-off in extra innings to beat his old team. It was everything you’d hope for in a rivalry game.

My next stop was Citi Field in Queens, New York, home of the New York Mets. Citi Field offers a completely different experience. Opened in 2008, it’s one of the more modern stadiums in the league, yet it still manages to evoke the feel of a classic ballpark. Its exterior pays homage to Ebbets Field, the former home of the Brooklyn Dodgers, through a similar brick façade.

Here’s a fun fact that many people don’t know: the Mets’ team colors—blue and orange—are a tribute to two former New York baseball teams. The Brooklyn Dodgers wore blue, and the New York Giants wore orange. When those teams left the city, the Mets carried their legacy forward.

Citi Field provides a great fan experience, especially because of its modern amenities and more convenient parking options. In contrast, Fenway Park’s parking is scarce, and most fans get there via the subway, which can be confusing for first-timers.

So far, I’ve attended three games at two ballparks, and I plan on visiting more before the summer ends. But the journey isn’t just about checking off stadiums—it’s about the memories made along the way. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd, the thrill of a walk-off win, or simply sharing a hot dog in the stands, these moments make every trip worth it.

Whatever you do this summer, make time to catch a game or two. Take it all in—because baseball is more than just a game. It’s a feeling, an experience, and for me, the heart of summer.

Bojangles Set to Open First Polk County Location with Special Tribute to First Responders

Staff Reporter
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Bojangles Set to Open First Polk County Location with Special Tribute to First Responders

By Anita Todd

DAVENPORT – The first Bojangles in Polk County is opening its doors to the public on Tuesday, July 29 at 6 a.m., but the Southern-style chain is kicking things off with a tribute to local heroes the day before.

On Monday, July 28, Bojangles will host a “First to the Table” Celebration and Ribbon Cutting exclusively for local first responders, including police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and medics. From noon to 3 p.m., first responders are invited to be among the first to experience the new restaurant and enjoy a complimentary lunch featuring fan favorites like Bo’s Chicken Sandwich, Bo-Berry Biscuits, Chicken Tenders, and more. A special “biscuit-cutting” ceremony will take place at 2 p.m.

“The event celebrates the heroes who are first to every call – and who make it possible for families to gather safely around the table each night,” Bojangles shared in a press release.

Located at 40235 U.S. Highway 27, near AdventHealth Heart of Florida Hospital, the new Bojangles marks a major milestone. It is:

· The first location in Polk County;

· The fourth in the Orlando area;

· The ninth in Florida;

· And the 819th restaurant in the Bojangles chain nationwide.

Founded in 1977, Bojangles now employs nearly 10,000 people. Construction on the 1.24-acre Haines City property began late last year. The new location is next door to the new Wendy’s, adding to the growing number of dining options along the busy corridor.

In addition to its famous chicken, biscuits, and Legendary Iced Tea, Bojangles also offers a variety of benefits for hourly team members, including:

· Free meals during shifts;

· Flexible scheduling;

· Weekly pay;

· Part- and full-time positions;

· Scholarship opportunities;

· Career growth potential.

Those interested in applying can visit www.ziprecruiter.com.

To learn more about Bojangles, visit www.bojangles.com.

Central Florida Heat Wave Pushes Index Over 100 Degrees in Polk County

Carl Fish
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Central Florida Heat Wave Pushes Index Over 100 Degrees in Polk County

Polk County residents are feeling the full force of a Central Florida heat wave this week, with heat index values soaring to dangerous levels. In some parts of the county, the index has reportedly reached as high as 108 degrees, creating hazardous conditions for outdoor workers, vulnerable populations, and even household pets.

The heat index, often referred to as the “feels like” temperature, combines air temperature and humidity to give a more accurate measure of what people actually experience. While the actual air temperature in Polk County has been hovering in the mid-90s, the high humidity has pushed the index well into triple digits by the early afternoon.

The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories for much of the Central Florida region throughout the week, warning residents to take precautions such as staying indoors during peak hours, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities. While no official warnings specific to Polk County had been issued as of Monday morning, local officials are urging people to remain alert to changing conditions and to check on elderly neighbors or those without reliable access to air conditioning.

Heat waves in Florida are not unusual in late July, but the prolonged stretch of high humidity combined with afternoon highs has made this particular system more oppressive than average. Meteorologists expect the pattern to persist for several more days, with little relief in sight until the weekend when rain chances slightly increase.

Lake Alfred Bottling Plant to Lay Off Dozens as Mizkan America Restructures

Carl Fish
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Lake Alfred Bottling Plant to Lay Off Dozens as Mizkan America Restructures

By Carl Fish | Daily Ridge News

Mizkan America has announced it will permanently shut down the bottling department at its Lake Alfred facility, resulting in the loss of approximately 57 jobs. The closure is scheduled to take place around September 19, 2025, and will impact a range of positions including production workers, technicians, supervisors, and warehouse personnel.

Located at 445 North Dakota Avenue, the facility has been a part of the Lake Alfred industrial landscape for well over a decade. While an exact opening date for the plant wasn’t immediately available, company records show that in 2012 Mizkan invested in a new research and development center on-site. That expansion supported food innovation projects and helped diversify the types of condiments and vinegars produced at the location.

Although the bottling lines are being shut down, Mizkan will continue to operate the Lake Alfred facility for bulk vinegar production and warehousing. According to company officials, the closure of the bottling department is part of a broader shift in operations. Bottled product production will be moved to other Mizkan sites in the United States, while the Lake Alfred facility will focus on larger-scale bulk operations.

Mizkan America is the U.S. subsidiary of Mizkan Holdings, a Japan-based food company with more than 200 years of history. The company owns several well-known consumer brands including Ragú and Bertolli pasta sauces, Holland House cooking wines, and Nakano rice vinegars. Mizkan operates more than a dozen manufacturing plants across the country, but the Lake Alfred site is the company’s only facility in Florida.

In a written statement, Mizkan leadership expressed appreciation for the contributions of the Lake Alfred employees and indicated that assistance would be provided to help them through the transition. The company also stated there is no labor union representing the affected workers, and no internal job transfers or “bumping rights” will be available as part of the shutdown process.

While the bulk production side of the operation will continue for now, the end of bottling operations marks a significant shift in Mizkan’s Florida footprint. For many in the community, it’s another reminder of how quickly the economic landscape can change—and how important it is to support workers and families during periods of transition.

Winter Haven Man Behind Bars After Allegedly Committing Lewd Acts in Front of Adult and Four Young Children

Staff Reporter
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Winter Haven Man Behind Bars After Allegedly Committing Lewd Acts in Front of Adult and Four Young Children

A Winter Haven man is behind bars after he committed lewd acts in front of an adult and four young children.
Thirty-year-old Tavarus Harrison of Winter Haven was taken into custody on July 18, 2025 after an adult female flagged down an officer who was working an off-duty detail in the area of 2nd St NW. The victim told the officer that Harrison had exposed himself to her after he called out her name while she was walking to her residence. The victim has known Harrison since childhood and was able to positively identify him.


Harrison was located on July 19, 2025 and taken into custody charged with one count of Exposure of Sexual Organs, a first-degree Misdemeanor.
Officers were also notified that four juveniles ranging in age 6 – 12 years-old had also encountered Harrison on July 17, 2025. The children informed officers that Harrison had been standing up against a wall near their residence “touching his private parts”.
Detectives took over the case and each child had a forensic interview that revealed Harrison was not only exposing himself but performing a lewd act in front of the children. Harrison was positively identified by all of the children.
On July 23, 2025, detectives filed four additional charges on Harrison, who was still in the Polk County Jail under the original case. The additional charges are four counts of Exhibition Offense on a Victim Under the Age of 16, which each are Second-Degree Felonies.
“I am so proud of these children stepping up and telling us about what they saw,” said Chief Vance Monroe. “The courage to say something speaks to the values that have been instilled in these kids.”

One Movie Later: Elio is a Movie That Exists

Staff Reporter
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One Movie Later: Elio is a Movie That Exists

One Movie Later: Elio is a Movie That Exists

by James Coulter

 

If you haven’t heard about Pixar’s newest movie, Elio, don’tworry! A lot of people didn’t. In fact, when it was released last month, the film suffered the worst box office opening in Pixar’s history, earning only $21 million domestically its opening weekend. Couple that with the film’s troubled production and its delayed release date, and it feels like the movie was doomed on arrival.

 

But did Elio deserve to underperform at the box office? Did this film deserve to go unnoticed with its severe lack of marketing? Or is it a hidden gem that fell to Earth?

 

Elio is an average kid that no one understands. After his parents pass away, he becomes obsessed with space. He even wants to be abducted by aliens because he feels so out of place on Earth.

 

His wish soon comes true after transmitting a message to space. He is abducted by aliens who assume he is the leader of Earth and wish to bring the planet into their “Communiverse.” They even task him with negotiating with a savage warlord who demands to join the Communiverse or else destroy it.

 

Will Elio get out of his interplanetary predicament? Will he convince the warlord to stand down by befriending his son? Or is his endeavor as doomed as his life on Earth?

 

Several critics have denounced Elio as the worst Pixar movie. It’s not. Not when Cars 2 and The Good Dinosaur exist. As big of a flop as it was, Elio is not a bad movie.

 

That’s not a compliment.

 

Because at least you can discuss a bad movie. You can talk about how bad it was. In the same way, you can talk about how a good movie was good. At least you can talk about a good or bad movie.

 

But what about a movie that’s neither good nor bad? A bland movie? A mediocre movie. A boring? You can’t because there’snot much good or bad to talk about. However, seeing as I paid good money to watch the movie, I might as well recompense myself by writing a review, even if I have to scrape the proverbial barrel to do so.

 

First, some positives. The overall art designs of everything space and space-related were gorgeous. Especially when young Elio visits the Communiverse and sees all of the different alien species, all of which are unique and vibrantly colored and designed.

 

Another good thing: this movie is only 90 minutes long. Yes, that’s a plus. Especially when so many blockbusters insist on being two-to-three-hour watches. This movie isn’t perfect, but at least it’s over pretty quickly.

 

And that’s where the positives end. Everything about this movie is generic. The story is generic. The characters are generic. Even the designs of the human characters look generic.

 

Several recent Pixar movies like this one, along with Turning Red and Luca, exhibit what has since become known as “bean mouth design”—for the obvious reason that many of the characters appear overly-simplistic with bean mouths.

 

One reviewer even complained it was hard to enjoy the movie because she had to remind herself it wasn’t a GrubHubcommercial. Because the characters look that bland and generic.

 

This movie could have also been better developed, with the overall story refusing to “show, don’t tell.” For example, we’retold that the main character feels out of place and has trouble relating to other people. We’re told that only his parents were able to understand him, and that he feels alone ever since they left. And we’re told that he and his aunt have a strained relationship. But we’re never really shown any of this.

 

We never really get to see what his life was like before his parents died. We never really see his strained relationship with his aunt outside of her shrugging off his obsession with wanting to be abducted by aliens (which is quite a normal reaction). We never even see him being mocked, teased, or ignored by other children. We do see him being berated by very generic bully characters, but for reasons outside of his alien obsession.

 

This movie could have benefited from some additional scenes. Maybe a few flashbacks of him and his parents contrasted with scenes of him not fitting in with other children or failing to connect with his aunt. Instead, we’re simply subjected to a montage of him skipping school to lie on the beach waiting to be abducted by aliens, and expected to assume this is why he’s not connecting with anyone else in his life.

 

Is this still a good movie for kids? Sure. It’s harmless enough. And small children are most likely to be entertained by it. Then again, kids are easily entertained by the likes of Cocomelon, Blippi, and Ms. Rachel. However, unlike any of that slop, watching this movie won’t rot their brains or attention spans. Overall, Elio is good. Just not good enough. It’s bland, boring, and forgettable.

In Loving Memory of Paula Kraft of Winter Haven

Staff Reporter
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In Loving Memory of Paula Kraft of Winter Haven

Paula Kraft

September 26th, 1973 – July 20th, 2025

Paula Ann Kraft, age 51, of Winter Haven, FL, passed away on 7/20/2025 unexpectedly. 

Born on September 26th, 1973 in Hollywood, FL, Paula was a beloved wife, mother, daughter and friend known for her unrelenting positivity, kindness, and generosity.

When Paula wasn’t spending time with and caring for her substantial family, she had multiple interesting professional pursuits including Private Investigator, Acquisitions with Lion’s Eye Institute, and Flight Attendant with United Airlines, to name a few. Outside of work and family, she enjoyed gardening, decorating, and bargain hunting.

Paula is survived by her husband, Nick Kraft; her children, Vincent DiCicco, Anthony DiCicco, Nicholas (Julia) DiCicco, Kyler (Angel) Holley, and Kayla (Eric) Kraft, Anastasia Kraft, and Leo Kraft; her 10 beloved grandchildren, Jaxson, Samuel, Joshua, Jacob H., Amya, Reece, Lilith, Jacob R., Ella, and Calla; her parents, Daniel (Julie) Christensen and Theresa Velasco; her siblings, Tamara Christensen, Mitchell Silvers, and Daniel (Christine) Christensen; as well as many more loving family members and dear friends. 

A service to celebrate Paula’s life will be held on Saturday July 26. The visitation is at 10 A.M., followed by the service at 11 A.M. at Oak Ridge Care on Havendale Blvd. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend.

Though Paula is no longer with us in body, her spirit will live on in the stories, memories, and love she shared with everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to some of the organizations that were near and dear to Paula’s heart…… Lions Eye Institute, One Hope United, or Heartland for Children.

Save the Date for Trunk or Treat Event Benefiting Humane Society of Polk County

Staff Reporter
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Save the Date for Trunk or Treat Event Benefiting Humane Society of Polk County

TRICK OR TREAT… STEWART STYLE!

We’re gearing up for a night of spooky fun, sweet treats, and community spirit on – — and we want to be part of it!

Stewart Auto Repair is proud to present this year’s Trick or Treat Night, hosted at the Winter Haven Moose Lodge 1023 & Chapter 1152.

$3 from every ticket sold will go directly to the , so every scream and smile helps a pet in need!

$ , !

:
– — , ? , , – … !
– ’
–
– — – !
– – ! .

Whether you’re a business or just someone who loves Halloween, this is a great way to give back while having a hauntingly good time!

For more info or to sign up, reach out to at:
863-585-5944
[email protected]

Let’s flood the Moose Lodge with laughter, candy, creepy cars, and a !

Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 Following Reported Cardiac Arrest in Clearwater

Carl Fish
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Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 Following Reported Cardiac Arrest in Clearwater

Clearwater, FL – Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has died at 71 years old following an apparent cardiac arrest, according to a report from TMZ Sports.

Emergency crews were dispatched to Hogan’s Clearwater residence early Thursday morning. First responders reportedly described the call as a “cardiac arrest.” Several police vehicles and EMT units were seen outside the home, and Hogan was transported via stretcher into an ambulance.

The tragic news comes just weeks after Hogan’s wife, Sky, publicly denied rumors that he was in a coma, assuring fans that his heart was “strong” as he recovered from recent surgeries. In May, Hogan had undergone a neck procedure, and although there were reports suggesting he was on his “deathbed,” sources close to the family downplayed the concerns at the time.

Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hulk Hogan was more than just a professional wrestler—he was a cultural phenomenon. Hogan became the face of wrestling in the 1980s, turning what was once a niche sport into a mainstream family entertainment sensation. With his signature mustache, red-and-yellow ring gear, and booming charisma, he captivated children and adults alike and helped launch the WWE (then WWF) into global stardom.

In 1996, Hogan made headlines again when he rebranded himself as a villain by forming the New World Order (NWO) and adopting the persona “Hollywood” Hulk Hogan. The bold move revived his career and helped usher in a new era of wrestling entertainment.

Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, but controversy followed in 2015 when he was removed after a leaked video showed him making racist remarks during a private encounter. The video, published by Gawker, led to a high-profile lawsuit which Hogan ultimately won.

Despite the scandals, Hogan’s legacy in professional wrestling remains undeniable. He headlined countless events, inspired generations of fans, and helped shape the modern landscape of sports entertainment.

Hulk Hogan is survived by his wife Sky and his children. Further details regarding funeral arrangements have not been released at this time.

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