Winter Haven Public Library-
Story Time After Hours returns this Friday, July 11th from 5:30-6:30 p.m.! The Letter of the Day is P, which stands for: Parenting is Hard.
No registration! 18+ Only! Come remember how it felt for someone to read you a story at the Winter Haven Public Library.
The library is located at 325 Ave A NW in Winter Haven.
By Carl Fish | Daily Ridge News
Based Off Press Release From PSC
For the first time in Polk State College’s history, all three of its collegiate high schools have earned “A” grades from the Florida Department of Education for the 2024–2025 academic year.
Polk State Lakeland Gateway to College Collegiate High School joined its sister schools—Polk State Chain of Lakes Collegiate and Polk State Lakeland Collegiate—in receiving top marks. The milestone marks Gateway’s first-ever “A” rating, after earning a “B” last year following updates to its charter and academic mission.
“This is an exciting time for our collegiate high school,” said Gateway Principal Meesha Downing-Townsend. “This year’s school grade is the first of two consecutive A grades needed for Gateway to add a 10th-grade cohort in 2026–2027.”
Chain of Lakes and Lakeland collegiate high schools enrolled their first 10th-grade classes in August 2024 and have already reported strong academic results and high levels of student and parent satisfaction.
“We are hearing from more families that they wish they could start their collegiate high school journeys even sooner,” said Chain of Lakes Principal Patrice Bryant-Thigpen. “We are thrilled to see our school grade reflect the tireless work of our staff and students.”
Polk State Lakeland Gateway celebrated notable academic achievements this year, including recognition of the College’s youngest student to graduate with an Associate in Arts degree at age 15. The same student also earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management, joining her peers at Chain of Lakes.
Students at all three collegiate high schools complete college credits while simultaneously working toward their high school diplomas, typically at no cost. Most students graduate with their college degrees in hand.
“Our students excel not only in academics but also in the unique college-level environment we provide,” said Lakeland Collegiate Principal Rick Jeffries. “They benefit from expert faculty, clubs, internships, and other enriching experiences.”
Gateway serves 11th and 12th-grade students on the Lakeland campus who are no older than 21 and meet the academic requirement of at least 11 high school credits. In 2024, nearly all of Gateway’s 136-member class earned an Associate in Arts degree, completing over 15,000 hours of community service and securing around $1.3 million in scholarships.
Lakeland Collegiate and Chain of Lakes Collegiate serve 10th through 12th-grade students. Chain of Lakes has held an “A” grade since 2015 and was previously ranked as the top public high school in Polk County by U.S. News & World Report. Both are located on Polk State’s Winter Haven and Lakeland campuses, respectively.
Applications are still being accepted for the 2025–2026 school year at Chain of Lakes and Lakeland Collegiate. More information is available at polk.edu/charter-high-schools.
City of Winter Haven, FL –
Mark your calendars! The Winter Haven Police Benevolent Association and WHPD Community Outreach are excited to bring back the 2nd Annual Back-to-School Giveaway – a free, family-friendly event to help our students head back to school with confidence.
What’s Included for Free:
Supplies available while they last. K-12 students must be present to receive giveaways.
Saturday, August 2 at 10 am – 1PM.
Christ Community Church (1895 Overlook Drive, Winter Haven, Florida 33884)
This is more than just school supplies—it’s a chance to connect with local resources, enjoy public safety demonstrations, and celebrate our community. We look forward to seeing you there!
Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) has announced upcoming increases to varsity football ticket prices, marking the first adjustment since 2011. The new prices will take effect for the 2025-26 and 2027-28 school years.
The district says the price increases are necessary to help support student-athletes, maintain high-quality athletic programs, and cover rising operational costs.
Beginning with the 2025-26 school year, regular admission for varsity football games will increase from $6 to $7. Another $1 increase is planned for the 2027-28 school year, bringing the ticket price to $8.
“We understand the importance of athletics in our students’ educational experience, and the role these events play in bringing our community together,” said Dan Talbot, senior director of athletics for PCPS. “These incremental adjustments will help us continue to provide safe, well-equipped facilities and meaningful opportunities for our student-athletes, while also addressing increased costs associated with hosting athletic events.”
According to PCPS, the district has maintained some of the lowest athletic event ticket prices in Central Florida. Revenue generated from the increases will go toward improving equipment, supporting transportation, and enhancing security for athletic events across the county.
The district emphasized its commitment to keeping school events accessible to families, with discounted student tickets and season pass options remaining available.
Polk County Public Schools serves more than 10,000 student-athletes and continues to focus on providing high-quality educational and extracurricular opportunities for all students.
For more information about the ticket price adjustments or available assistance programs, contact [email protected].
FWC: The agency is preparing to implement a new law to improve vessel accountability and reduce derelict vessels.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is preparing to implement a new law aimed at strengthening vessel accountability and enhancing protections for Florida’s waterways. Senate Bill 164, signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis on June 19, will go into effect on July 1, 2025.
This legislation is designed to help reduce the number of at-risk and derelict vessels across the state and improve enforcement tools for FWC officers and partner agencies. Key provisions of the new law include:
Additional requirements, including an annual electronic permit issued by FWC for vessels anchoring long-term, will go into effect on July 1, 2026. The penalty for unauthorized long-term anchoring will consist of fines ranging from $100 for the first offense, $250 for the second offense, and $500 for the third or subsequent offense. If a vessel owner receives three violations within a 2-year period, the vessel may be declared a public nuisance and removed as if it were derelict. Some exemptions apply and include vessels that are government-operated, construction vessels, actively engaged in commercial or recreational fishing, docked at a public or private facility, or moored at permitted moorings.
“We have seen increasing success in our efforts to combat the ongoing derelict vessel problem in Florida’s waters,” said Capt. Travis Franklin, leader of the FWC Derelict Vessel Removal and Prevention Program. “This new legislation enhances our efforts to not only remove derelict vessels but also prevent at-risk vessels from becoming derelict.”
Derelict vessels remain a priority for the FWC, and the multi-year initiative to reduce the number of derelict vessels on Florida’s waterways is ongoing. These vessels pose serious risks to seagrass beds, marine life, navigation, public safety and property. The Boating and Waterways Section is leading this statewide effort in partnership with local governments and law enforcement.
Leaving a vessel in a derelict condition is a crime. Derelict vessels, including those that are sinking, grounded, stripped or lacking vital systems, threaten both people and Florida’s natural resources.
For more information on derelict or vessels at risk of becoming derelict, visit MyFWC.com/Boating and select “Waterway Management” followed by “Derelict Vessel Removal Program.”
The FWC has removed nearly 200 vessels through the Vessel Turn-In Program and is actively taking applications from at-risk vessel owners. Vessel owners can call VTIP specialists at the FWC for more information on the program at 850-488-5600 or visit the VTIP website at MyFWC.com/boating and click on “Vessel Turn-In Program” on the second slider at the top of the page.
By Carl Fish | Daily Ridge News
Ashley Bell Barnett, a respected business leader, philanthropist, and passionate advocate for education and community service in Central Florida, has been appointed to the Women United Global Leadership Council, an influential advisory group to United Way Worldwide.
The Council brings together women leaders from across the globe to help guide United Way’s work in strengthening families, empowering women, and expanding access to opportunities such as affordable, quality childcare. New members, including Barnett, were selected through a competitive nomination process for their experience, dedication to Women United, and demonstrated impact in their communities.
“Ashley has long been a passionate advocate for the communities of Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties, dedicating her time and energy to uplifting individuals and families across the region,” said Katherine Fitzwater, Director of Public Relations for United Way of Central Florida. “This new role is a testament to Ashley’s vision, compassion, and tireless work in advancing the mission of Women United.”
In her new role, Barnett will work alongside global leaders to further United Way’s mission of mobilizing communities to action so that all people can thrive. United Way Worldwide takes a comprehensive approach to addressing local challenges, focusing on improving health, expanding youth opportunities, and increasing financial security. Their work spans tens of thousands of communities, sharing innovations and scaling impact to help individuals and families reach their full potential—goals that align closely with Barnett’s long-standing commitment to community service.
Barnett’s service extends well beyond United Way. She is a trustee of Florida Polytechnic University, a member of the Florida Council of 100, and a District Board of Trustees member for Polk State College, where she also previously served as Foundation Chair. Her leadership in education, workforce development, and economic initiatives has made her a highly respected figure across the region.
Ashley has been the recipient of notable awards including the National Athena Award (2023), AFP philanthropist of the year, and Barnett was recently named a Florida Community Hero. Bell Barnett holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of South Florida and received a bachelor’s degree from Florida Southern College. She is a fifth-generation Floridian who lives in Winter Haven with her husband, Wesley, and their two daughters. Ashley is passionate about travel, especially to Southeast Asia, sailing, nature, music, and theatre.
Now, as part of the Women United Global Leadership Council, Barnett’s influence will help shape global strategies that benefit families not just in Central Florida, but around the world—building toward a future where every person, in every community, has the opportunity to succeed.
To learn more about Ashley Bell Barnett and the Women United Global Leadership Council, visit:
www.unitedway.org/about/leadership/ashley-bell-barnett
www.unitedway.org/news/women-united-global-leadership-council-announces-new-members-0
Notice is hereby given pursuant to the Fictitious Name Act, Section 865.09, Florida Statutes, that the undersigned is engaged in business under the fictitious name:
Goddess Links Permanent Jewelry
and intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.
Business Owner:
Manifest Fempire LLC
Principal Place of Business:
Mobile Business – Servicing Polk County and Surrounding Areas, Florida
The business provides mobile permanent jewelry services including welded-on jewelry installations, pop-up events, private parties, and personalized intention-setting rituals.
Dated this 7th day of July, 2025.
BY ANITA TODD
HAINES CITY – Sharon Ann Cook Gardner spent more than three decades shaping young minds in the Polk County School District, where she earned the admiration of generations of junior and senior high school students. Known for her strict but caring approach, she left a lasting impact on the thousands who passed through her classrooms.
After retiring from teaching, Sharon brought her passion for people and history to the heart of downtown Haines City by opening Hidden Treasures, a charming antique shop that quickly became a local favorite. There, she continued to connect with others—this time over vintage finds, shared stories, and a warm smile.
Sharon passed away in June in Brooksville, Florida. She was 82.
Born and raised in Haines City to citrus growers Rutherford “Rufus” and Mary Cook, Sharon was a standout student. She served as drum major of the marching band and was known both for her academic excellence and magnetic personality. After graduating high school in 1961, she earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisville and later, a master’s degree from Rollins College.
It was after college that she met the love of her life, Donald Louis Gardner. The couple shared a long and happy marriage until Don’s passing in 2017. Together, they raised three children and were blessed with three grandsons.
Her daughter, Mary Fair Gardner Weldon, is the mother of Cole and Andrew Weldon. Her daughter Lesley Gardner, married to Bucky Buchanan, has one son, Dalton Lott. Sharon’s son, Darin Gardner, is married to Lis Gardner. Sharon is also survived by her brother Hootie Cook and his wife, Barbara.
The Gardner’s built a life full of love, laughter, and lasting friendships. They enjoyed cheering for the Florida State Seminoles, weekend trips to the hunting camp and fishing.
“Sharon loved to saltwater fishing with the boys, Don and Buddy (Conroy). She caught sailfish and anything that got on her hook,” said lifelong friend Brenda Conroy.
Kathrine Addison Bronson, also a close lifelong friend she met in junior high, remembers many fishing trips including one to Little Gasparilla Island when they caught their limit in snapper.
“She just loved the outdoors,” Kathrine said.
After retirement, they fulfilled a lifelong dream by building a home in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, where they spent many joyful years enjoying the mountains and the friendships they formed there.
“Sharon never met a stranger,” Kathrine said. “She loved to travel and kept in touch with so many friends she met along the way.”
Brenda agreed. “She loved everyone. It was all about what she could do for someone else. It was hard for her to see the bad in anyone.”
From the Florida Keys to New York City, Rome, and Colorado, Sharon’s adventures were filled with laughter, meaningful connections, and memorable moments. “She was so thoughtful,” Kathrine said. “I can’t look anywhere in my house without seeing something she gave us. The world is not the same without her. She was one-of-a-kind.”
Sharon shared a special bond with Brenda, Kathrine and Joan McNair, all friends since the 1980s. They kept in close touch with one another, taking trips together, but, most importantly, making sure to always be there for each other.
“When Ronnie (Addison – Kathrine’s husband) died in 2008, Sharon called me and I was crying and upset,” Kathrine remembered. “It wasn’t two hours and people started showing up at my house – Don and Sharon, Howard and Joan (McNair), Brenda (Conroy), Cheryl and Denny (Wilkinson), Hootie and Barbara (Cook), and my neighbor. Sharon had called and gathered them all to support me. That’s just how she was – so thoughtful and supportive.”
Sharon taught junior high science from 1967 to 1985, then continued her career at the high school level until her retirement in 1997. Even after stepping out of the classroom, her work with the community didn’t stop. In addition to her antique shop, she co-founded Salon on the Park with her friend Kathy Prince and launched Legacy of Love—an annual gathering of local women friends to reconnect and share life updates.
She loved her hometown and was a founding member of the Haines City Historical Museum. According to the Museum’s Facebook page, “She (Sharon) and her husband, Don, wanted everyone to remember Haines City’s heritage and worked hard to make our museum a reality. Sharon touched so many lives in a positive way being a retired school teacher, community activist, and loving wife and mother and friend. She was truly a Southern Lady.”
Sharon Ann Cook Gardner will be remembered not only for her long and dedicated career as an educator, but for the way she built community, cherished friendships, and filled every room—whether a classroom, a shop, or a mountain home—with warmth, curiosity, and compassion.
City of Winter Haven –
DON’T MISS THE SKI SHOW!
The legendary Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team (est. 2012) will be performing a high-energy show right on Lake Silver!
Prepare to be amazed by jumps, tricks, and iconic formations from this historic Winter Haven team.
They’ll also be selling concessions, so be sure to stop by and support their amazing work!
Thursday, July 3rd | Show starts at 7 PM sharp
Fireworks follow the show — right after sunset
Bring chairs, no tents, and come early to grab a great view!
Location: MLK Park on Lake Silver
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