Your hurricane plan starts before the storm.
Sign up for emergency alerts direct from the City’s Emergency Operations Center—fast, accurate, and official.
Don’t wait until the storm is already here to sign up.
Sign up now: https://www.mywinterhaven.com/list.aspx
As summer celebrations and holidays approach, fireworks and sparklers light up the night, bringing joy to families across the community. However, these dazzling displays come with risks, especially for children. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports thousands of firework-related injuries each year, with kids making up a significant portion. To keep the festivities safe, here are essential guidelines for parents to protect their children around fireworks and sparklers.
Fireworks and sparklers are not harmless fun. Sparklers, often handed to kids as a “safe” option, can burn at over 2,000°F—hot enough to melt metal. Burns, cuts, and eye injuries are common when safety precautions are ignored. Local fire departments urge families to prioritize safety to prevent avoidable accidents.
Sparklers require extra caution, as they’re often given to children. Follow these tips to keep kids safe:
If an accident occurs:
Fireworks and sparklers can create lasting memories, but only if safety comes first. By supervising closely, keeping kids at a safe distance, and teaching them to respect these powerful tools, parents can ensure a joyful and injury-free celebration. Whenever possible, opt for professional displays, and always handle sparklers with care. Let’s make this holiday season bright and safe for everyone!
S Lake Silver Dr (between 5th St NW & 2nd St NW) & 3rd St (between Ave F NW & S Lake Silver Dr): Road closures begin at 3:30 PM and reopen by 9:30 PM Magnolia Ave (between Ave B NW & 2nd St NW): Road closures begin at 4 PM and reopen by 9 PM
by James Coulter
Additional street lights will be installed in the northern portion of the Inwood area now that county commissioners have approved the Master Inwood Street Lighting Municipal Service Benefit Unit (MSBU) and Tentative Rate Resolution.
At their regular meeting on Tues. July 1, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to adopt an ordinance for an MSBU and a tentative rate resolution to facilitate the installation of street lighting in the Inwood area.
Over the past four years, street lights have been installed by the county in the Inwood area. Street lighting was installed in the southwest portion in 2021, and then in the central portion in 2023. Now, the northern portion is expected to receive street lighting.
To facilitate funding for the street lighting installation, the County has considered the “consolidation of the area under a single assessment rate” that will “make assessment collection more affordable while bringing the rate down for the property owners,” wrote Noah Milov, Assistant County Attorney.
“Because the areas paid different Capital Rates when the streetlights were installed, affected property owners will initially pay different annual assessment rates until the installation and other capital costs have been paid off in the next 5 years,” Milov wrote.
“Therefore, the County seeks to consolidate the already existing Inwood areas that have streetlights installed, Southwest and Central, while including the northern area to have streetlights installed into a single Master Inwood Area,” he further elaborated.
Per a county ordinance, Polk County Commissioners are required to “adopt a Tentative Rate Resolution each year establishing tentative rates for the Master Inwood Street Lighting MSBU for the upcoming fiscal year.”
County Manager Bill Beasley commented that the street lighting project was an example of the BoCC listening to concerns from residents and acting accordingly.
“This is what they [Inwood residents] asked us to do,” he said. “This is a great example of us listening to the public. That is what they wanted us to do, and we have the means to do it.”
Bartow, Fla. (July 2, 2025) – Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) Battalion Chiefs Ramon Gonzalez and Charles True will be moving up the ranks to Deputy Chief positions effective next week.
Gonzalez, who has been with PCFR since August 2010, will be the Deputy Chief of Training/Professional Standards and True, who has been with PCFR since November 2006, will be the Deputy Chief of Emergency Medical Services.
“Their dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our organization have not only inspired their peers and respective battalions but have also significantly contributed to the safety and well-being of our community,’’ said Fire Chief Shawn Smith. “These promotions reflect their exceptional skill and the respect they have earned from their peers. We look forward to their continued guidance and vision as we move our organization forward.”
The promotions are effective July 7.
For more information on PCFR, visit https://www.polk-county.net/public-safety/fire-rescue/ or call (863) 519-7350.
by James Coulter
An industrial warehouse being constructed at Laurel Estates will gain direct access to North Ridge Trail now that Polk County Commissioners have approved an agreement for improvements to the trail.
At their regular meeting on Tues. July 1, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to approve an infrastructure agreement between the County and EASTGROUP PROPERTIES, INC., the developer for Laurel Estates.
The agreement will allow the developer to “design and construct certain non-site related transportation improvements for the North Ridge Trail,” as explained by Thado N. Hays, CPM, Concurrency & Entitlements Manager.
North Ridge Trail is located next to the property currently owned by the developer, which is located south of Laurel Estates Phase 2, west of US Highway 27, and east of the Core of the Green Swamp.
“The Developer’s property is currently being developed with an industrial warehouse that will gain direct access to the North Ridge Trail once complete,” Hays wrote.
“This agreement will allow for these improvements to be made more rapidly by the Developer and at a reduced cost if Polk County were to program these improvements,” he continued.
The agreement and its transportation improvements are estimated to cost no more than $4,181,255. Funding through the county is available in the Roads and Drainage 5-year CIP General Capital Improvement Fund.
by James Coulter
To improve communications during emergencies such as hurricanes, the Polk County Utilities Division has been approved to purchase emergency operations communications equipment and services.
At their meeting on Tues. July 1, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to approve a request from the Utilities Division to purchase radios and other related essential services through a one-time expense of $269,754.
“The Utilities Division has identified the need to improve communications during emergencies such as hurricanes and other real-time events,” wrote Holden Wright, P.E., Utilities Projects Manager.
“During Hurricane Milton in 2024, Utilities lost the ability to communicate with cell phones and had to rely on existing radios for not only field staff, but also Contractors conducting emergency work to restore service,” he further elucidated.
The Utilities Division will purchase this equipment through an agreement with Motorola, which they had initially entered into on Nov. 5, 2019. The agreement, as Wright explained, provides “for the purchase of various Motorola equipment and services using discounted pricing and hourly rates.”
“These additional radios will ensure that all staff and authorized Contractors in the field are equipped with radios during storm events, increasing Utilities’ reliability and level of service,” Wright wrote.
Funding for this purchase is available through the Utilities Operating budget.
By: Ethan Jones
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to keep your kids engaged this summer, look no further than Big Bass Guide Services. Whether your child is an experienced angler or a complete beginner, they’ll not only gain valuable fishing skills but also walk away with lasting memories.
Since launching in 2020, Mr. Arnold’s summer fishing camp has been a resounding success. What began as a creative pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic—when his charter business faced challenges—has now grown into a thriving program with over 300 kids participating. As Mr. Arnold put it, “Let’s take a bad situation and put some kids in the boat and take some kids fishing.”
The camp has already made a big impact. Several kids have gone on to compete in fishing tournaments, including state-level competitions. One of Mr. Arnold’s current team members now fishes in the college series and has even moved on to the professional circuit. With over 20 years of fishing experience and 7 years running Big Bass Guide Services, Mr. Arnold brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to everything he does.
Beyond the summer camp, Mr. Arnold offers fishing charters on freshwater lakes around Central Florida. Through his charter service, he has had the unique opportunity to take out well-known celebrities, including former NFL star Ray Lewis. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or just looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the water, Mr. Arnold ensures every outing is a high-quality experience.
One aspect that sets Mr. Arnold’s charters apart is his access to private lakes. Thanks to friends who live on these exclusive properties, he can bring his clients to areas few others can fish. This access creates a truly special and memorable experience for his guests.
Looking ahead, Mr. Arnold hopes to expand the kids’ camp and involve even more young anglers. For his charter services, he’s also aiming to bring more guides on board to help more people get out on the water.
When asked why the kids’ camp is important, Mr. Arnold shared, “It’s a great opportunity to get the kids off the video games and out on the boat and actually be kids again. I do believe that’s what a lot of people are missing, and that kids are growing up way too fast. They still need to be out there enjoying the outdoors.”
Mr. Arnold’s fishing camp lays a strong foundation by teaching kids the basics of fishing in a hands-on, engaging environment. Campers learn essential skills such as tying different types of knots, selecting the right bait, and understanding fundamental fishing techniques. By the end of the camp, one thing is certain: each child leaves more confident, better equipped, and more knowledgeable than when they arrived.
Whether you’re seeking top-notch instruction for your child or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the water, Mr. Arnold and Big Bass Guide Services have you covered. From beginners to seasoned anglers, there’s something for everyone in this unique and personalized fishing experience.
Here are some Fourth of July events happening around Polk County, FL with dates, times, locations, and highlights:
🎆 July 3, 2025
🎆 July 4, 2025
By Anita Todd
HAINES CITY – The Haines City Rotary Club is celebrating its 100th anniversary this month. It began with a Proclamation from the City.
During the June 5 meeting, the Commission recognized the occasion with this proclamation:
WHEREAS, Rotary is a global network of over 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
WHEREAS, the local Haines City Rotary Club plays an active part in Haines City and the surrounding communities.
WHEREAS, the local Haines City Rotary Club sponsors numerous events throughout the year that raise money for the annual scholarship fund and other well-deserving non-profits that provide services to the local citizens.
WHEREAS, First responders, law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians are invited to lunch, giving them a small thank you for all their work in our communities.
WHEREAS, the Haines City Rotary club sees the need to assist children and families that might not be fortunate to have holiday celebration meals and partners with a variety of organizations and schools and supply meals for a variety of holiday seasons.
WHEREAS, The Haines City Rotary club has weekly meetings and speakers learning about new businesses, community leaders, and special events, which are among the topics
NOW, THEREFORE, the City of Haines City does hereby proclaim the Haines City Rotary Club 100th year anniversary in the City of Haines City and urge all residents to become aware of and support the Haines City Rotary Club.
“We get a lot of support from the community,” said Steve Tiner, President of the Haines City Rotary Club. “We can’t do what we do without you guys.”
In order to meet the needs of the residents in the area, beginning July 1, the Haines City Rotary Club will become the Northeast Polk County Rotary Club. For more information on meetings, visit hainescityrotary.org.
© 2021 WinterHavenDaily.com | All rights reserved.
