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In Loving Memory of Arthur “Marty” Downing

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In Loving Memory of Arthur “Marty” Downing

Arthur “Marty” Downing

August 3rd, 1952 – April 8th, 2025

Arthur “Marty” Downing, a beloved companion, stepfather, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025, at the age of 72, in Winter Haven, Florida. Born on August 3, 1952, in Franklin, New Hampshire, he moved to Florida over 25 years ago and called it home.

Marty was a warm-hearted individual whose presence brought joy and laughter to those around him. As a skilled carpenter, Marty dedicated many years of his career to Imperial Roofing and Pete Roofing. His workmanship not only reflected his talent but also served as an enduring legacy in the homes he built and repaired. Known for his kindness and great sense of humor, he had a unique ability to make everyone feel special and valued. Marty had a zest for life that extended beyond his work; he was an avid fisherman, with a particular love for deep-sea fishing, and he enjoyed hunting, participating in pool tournaments, dart leagues, and playing golf. His passion for karaoke brought him much joy, as he loved to entertain friends and family with his singing.  

Marty is preceded in death by his dear parents, Maitland and Mary Downing. He is lovingly remembered by his significant other of 17 wonderful years, Jo Ann Schaffer, along with his stepchildren, Anthony and Alan Schaffer, and Cheryl Meade. He also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren who were the pride and joy of his life.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, to honor and celebrate the life of Marty Downing. Friends and family are invited to gather together to share memories, stories, and laughter, reflecting the kindness and humor that defined Marty’s life. In this time of sorrow, we extend our heartfelt condolences to those who knew and loved him. Marty’s spirit will forever remain in our hearts as we cherish the beautiful memories we shared with him. May he rest in peace.

Several Road Closures Planned for Event on Saturday in Winter Haven

Staff Reporter
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Several Road Closures Planned for Event on Saturday in Winter Haven

City of Winter Haven, FL – On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the following roads will be closed from approximately 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a large scale event:

Ave A NW (between 4th St and 5th St)
Ave B NW (between 4th St and 5th St)
Central Ave (between 4th St and 5th St)
4th St (between Ave A NW and Ave B NW)

Please plan accordingly and follow posted detour signs. Thank you for your patience and cooperation!

Winter Haven Library Offering Watercolor Windows Class

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Winter Haven Library Offering Watercolor Windows Class

Winter Haven Public Library – Explore your creativity! Materials and guidance will be provided for you to paint a vibrant watercolor collage. Watercolor Windows is happening this Thursday, May 1st from 3pm – 5pm. This event is for ages 16+ and registration is required.

Register at tinyurl.com/whplibrary

Incumbent Huffman Defeats Horace West in Close Haines City Runoff

Carl Fish
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Incumbent Huffman Defeats Horace West in Close Haines City Runoff

By Anita Todd

HAINES CITY – Incumbent Anne Huffman will retain her position as Haines City Commissioner for Seat 5 after defeating challenger Horace West in a runoff election.

Huffman secured 1,110 votes, accounting for 53.4 percent of the total, while West received 969 votes, or 46.6 percent.

The runoff was triggered after no candidate earned more than 50 percent of the vote in the April 1 municipal election. In that race, Huffman led with 917 votes (46.99 percent), followed by West with 727 votes (37.09 percent). Newcomers Edwin Perez and Alisa Romero received 275 votes (14.08 percent) and 41 votes (2.09 percent), respectively.

Among those who cast their ballots in the runoff were Valeri and Aaron Augustin, who brought their two-month-old baby girl to the Haines City Community Center polling site. The couple said they missed the opportunity to vote in the April 1 election but were glad to participate this time.

Valeri and Aaron Augustin voted today in Haines City’s City Commissioner Seat 5 Runoff election. In the background is the Haines City Community Center, one of two polling locations for the run-off.
Photo by Anita Todd

“I’m glad we were able to vote today,” Valeri said. “Voting allows us to speak up and speak out.”

Her husband added, “Voting gives us a direct voice in our community.”

In 2017, Huffman became the first Black female official in the city’s history when she was originally elected. She was reelected in 2021 and served as mayor in 2022.

West, a former Haines City Commissioner for 20 years, chose not to seek reelection in 2022. Instead, he made an unsuccessful bid for a seat in the Florida House of Representatives that year.

In Loving Memory of Richard Thomas

Staff Reporter
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In Loving Memory of Richard Thomas

Richard Thomas

April 13th, 1962 – April 23rd, 2025

Richard died suddenly and unexpectedly on April 23, 2025 in Winter Haven, FL. Richard was born in Terre Haute, IN and was the husband of Jeanne Thomas and son of Clyde and Rosalie Thomas. 

He graduated from Terre Haute South Vigo High School in 1980 and graduated from Indiana State University in 1985. He was loved by many and always had a passion for helping others. He enjoyed running Upward sports leagues, including for those with disabilities, and was known as the Veggietale guy at church. He loved all sports, and especially loved watching the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and Pittsburgh Pirates. He even took the position of assistant coach for his daughter’s high school soccer team, when he didn’t know anything about soccer. He also enjoyed supporting his daughter, Sarah, in Special Olympics bowling and bocce

He spent 30 years working for the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Terre Haute. He retired in 2015 and fulfilled his dream of moving to Florida in 2016, where he was an annual passholder at Walt Disney World. But what he truly loved was his family, especially his 2 grandsons. He married the love of his life, Jeanne, on July 13th, 1985. He is survived by his wife, Jeanne Thomas; mother, Rosalie Thomas; Brothers, Gary Thomas (Debbie) of Speedway, IN Keith Thomas of Hammond, IN; daughters, Sarah and Lindsay (Kyle) and grandsons, Jonah and Aaron.  He was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Thomas.     

There will be a memorial service at Christ Community Church in Winter Haven, FL on April 29, 2025 from 4-6PM. There will also be another service In Terre Haute, IN with a date to be determined.

In Loving Memory of Angela Garner-Friday

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In Loving Memory of Angela Garner-Friday

Angela Garner-Friday

June 9th, 1969 – April 10th, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Angela Friday, who left this world on April 10, 2025, in Clermont, Florida. Born on June 9, 1969, in St. Pete, Florida, Angela was a loving daughter, mother, sister, and a cherished friend to many. 

A devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Minneola, Angela was actively involved in Women’s Night and touched the lives of those around her with her kindness and humor. Angela took great joy in her interests, which included fishing, gardening, and spending time at the beach, as well as her fondness for pigs, Betty Boop, and dogs. One of her biggest passions was helping anyone that she could, she devoted a lot of her time helping those in need. Her infectious laughter and generous spirit will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.  

Angela is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Senora and George Garner; maternal grandmother, Ethel Townsend. She is survived by her father and stepmother, Bobby and Linda Garner; her mother, Nancy Bell; her beloved daughter, Savanna Long; her sons, Johnathon Napper and Christopher Long; brother, Bobby Garner Jr.; as well as her sister, Stephanie (Michael) Dean and Beth Kelly; her dogs, Ollie, Meatball and PJ. Angela’s legacy includes a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins who will remember her warmth and kindness. 

A visitation for Angela was held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 1:00 PM, with a funeral service to follow immediately at 2:00 PM. In this time of sorrow, all were invited to celebrate Angela’s life, sharing in the love and memories she created and the impact she had on those fortunate enough to call her family and friend. She will forever remain in our hearts, an enduring symbol of kindness and joy. 

Haines City Firefighters Rescue Kitten from Storm Drain

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Haines City Firefighters Rescue Kitten from Storm Drain

Haines City Firefighters Rescue Kitten from Storm Drain

Yesterday, the Haines City Fire Department swiftly responded to a call after a citizen reported hearing a kitten crying from a storm drain. Prioritizing safety, the team first conducted a thorough check for hazardous gases before proceeding.

Once the scene was deemed safe, firefighters entered the storm drain and located the frightened kitten. With great care and professionalism, they safely rescued the tiny animal from its confined space.

Photo source HCFD

Thanks to their quick thinking and compassionate approach, the kitten is now out of harm’s way and receiving proper care.

This successful rescue highlights the dedication and heart our first responders bring to every call—whether it’s a fire or a feline in distress. We’re proud of the crew for their heroic actions and their commitment to both safety and kindness. Outstanding work by all involved in making this rescue possible!

Photo source HCFD

8+ Acre Parcel on Sage Road Considered for New Medical Office

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8+ Acre Parcel on Sage Road Considered for New Medical Office

8+ Acre Parcel on Sage Road Considered for New Medical Office

by James Coulter

 A new medical office may be built on an 8+ acre annexed parcel located along Sage Road now that its zoning and future land use designation have been changed by the City of Winter Haven.

 At their regular meeting on Mon. Apr. 14, Winter Haven city commissioners reviewed the first reading of two ordinances about the zoning and future land use designation of an 8.64-acre parcel located at 75 Sage Road.

 The first ordinance would assign Neighborhood Support Future Land Use to the property. The second ordinance would assign a Commercial- Highway (C-3) zoning district.

 

The property is located along the Dundee Road mixed-use corridor, which, according to the city agenda memo, “consists of a mixture of industrial, commercial, and residential.”

 At approximately 8+ acres, the subject parcel was annexed into the city limits on Nov. 25, 2024. The zoning and future land use designation was requested by PTP Real Estate Enterprises, which plans on developing a medical office on that property.

 City staff reviewed the request, and concluded that: “The assignment of Neighborhood Support Future Land Use and C-3 zoning district is consistent with the property’s location along an arterial highway corridor and with developed uses and City designations in the area.”

 No vote was required for the first reading. The second reading was held at the commission meeting on Mon. Apr. 28. Details to come.

ADVERTISEMENT OF SALE

Staff Reporter
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ADVERTISEMENT OF SALE

Notice is hereby given that Lake Wales Storage intends to sell the property described below to enforce a lien under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Statutes (section 83.80-83.809). The owner will sell at public auction on or after May 15,2025 at 10:00 am at storageauctions.com 

Units belonging to the following:

Shavonski Rahett /UNIT #218

This sale will be continued on such succeeding sale days thereafter as may be necessary to be completed. *Unless otherwise noted units contain household items. 

12+ Mile Trail to Connect Auburndale to Haines City in the SUN Trail Network

Staff Reporter
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12+ Mile Trail to Connect Auburndale to Haines City in the SUN Trail Network

12+ Mile Trail to Connect Auburndale to Haines City in the SUN Trail Network

by James Coulter

 Residents will be able to walk or cycle their way between Auburndale to Haines City now that county commissioners have approved an agreement between Polk County and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for the Old Dixie Trail Project.

 At their regular meeting on Tues. Apr. 15, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) reviewed an item from County Manager Bill Beasley about the Old Dixie Trail Project, a proposed trail that would build 12.81 miles of paved multi-use trail connecting Auburndale to Haines City.

 Jay M. Jarvis, Roads & Drainage Division Director, wrote in the agenda item that the project would include “a 10-foot to 12-foot-wide ADA compliant multi-use trail” that would close a gap in the SUN Trail Network “by linking the TECO-Auburndale/Van Fleet Trails to the Haines City Trailhead.”

 Polk County will enter a Local Agency Program (LAP) Agreement with FDOT, which will include $2,000,335 for design services. However, as Jarvis explained, “Polk County agrees to bear all expenses more than the total cost of the project and any deficits incurred should FDOT not cover these additional costs.” As such, the county will establish a budget of $2,000,335 in the Special Revenue Grants Fund within the Roads and Drainage Sidewalk CIP Project.

 County commissioners motioned and seconded for the approval of the agreement, and the motion passed with a unanimous vote.

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