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Polk County Deputy Accidentally Shoots Herself While Attempting To Shoot Dog

Carl Fish
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Polk County Deputy Accidentally Shoots Herself While Attempting To Shoot Dog

Press Release PCSO

Deputies were dispatched to a livestock call at about 10:39am on Sunday, April 13, 2025, to 6th Street in Eloise (south of Winter Haven), in reference to about 4-5 cows roaming loose in the residential neighborhood.

 

Two deputies located the cows behind a residence. One deputy stayed with the cows, while the other deputy went to find the owner of the cows. 

 

As the deputy was walking around to the front of the property, a large pit bull aggressively charged at her. The deputy removed her firearm as the dog attacked her. The deputy fired several shots at the dog, striking it at least once, and striking her own leg once.

Auburndale Woman on Probation Arrested for Attempted Murder After Running Over Victim in Jealous Rage

 

The other deputy quickly rendered aid and applied a tourniquet to the wounded deputy’s leg.

 

The deputy was transported to the hospital. Her injury was treated, and it was determined that the bullet entered and exited her right calf without hitting bone or an artery.

 

The dog was also treated and is in stable condition. The owner of the dog was cited for no tags or vaccinations and dog roaming.

 

The cows were returned to the owner, and the fence from where they escaped was repaired.

In Loving Memory of Dan Logan Cooley

Staff Reporter
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In Loving Memory of Dan Logan Cooley

Dan Logan Cooley

March 11, 1956 – March 17, 2025

Dan Logan Cooley, age 69, died March 17, 2025, in Bartow, FL. He was predeceased by his eldest brother Tony, mother Peaches and father Cliff. He is survived by his wife Linda (nee Albritton), daughter Heather (Brian) Turner and grandchildren Anthony and Aurora of Davenport, son Cliff Cooley of Lake Wales, and younger brother Lee (Andrea) Cooley of Scottsdale, AZ. 
Born March 11, 1956, in Fort Lauderdale, Dan earned the rank of Eagle Scout at Troop 240 in Jacksonville Beach and graduated from Fletcher Sr. High School in Neptune Beach in 1974. He served four years in the U.S. Army and graduated from the University of North Florida with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Dan worked for a private security firm and at an auto parts store before a long career at the Polk County Sheriff’s Department as an investigator and Sergeant in Detentions. He was known as the “King of Contraband” which saved hundreds of lives. In his retirement, he worked part-time at Walmart and a local Dodge dealership. Dan also wrote a regular humor column for The Mulberry Press called “Old Coots Giving Advice”. He never stopped helping his community. He would hold presentations at a local elementary school and volunteer at the Luster African American Heritage Museum in Bartow. Every day he found ways to give acts of service to his community. He was a true Christian soldier.
The Family will receive friends from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm Friday, April 11, 2025 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home in Bartow, FL. A Celebration of Life Service for Dan will follow at 4:00 pm Friday, April 11, 2025 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family ask to make a contribution in Dan’s name to your favorite charity. Condolences to the Family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com

City of Bartow Installing Red-Light Safety Cameras at High-Risk Intersections

Staff Reporter
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City of Bartow Installing Red-Light Safety Cameras at High-Risk Intersections

City of Bartow, a Florida Municipality:

“The City of Bartow and the Bartow Police Department are working to improve community safety by installing red-light safety cameras at 8 high-risk intersections. The program will be live on April 21. For the first 30 days, violators will receive warnings. Beginning May 21, violations will incur fines.

The cameras, which will be operational 24/7, are installed at the following intersections (which are marked with signs noting that cameras are in use):

  • Wilson Ave. at Van Fleet Dr. / SR 60
  • W. Main St. / SR 60 at Crown Ave.
  • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 / US98 at Van Fleet Ave. / US 98
  • Broadway Ave. / US 98 / at E. Van Fleet Dr. / SR 60
  • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at Main St.
  • S. Holland Pkwy. US 17 at W. Wabash St.
  • Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
  • S. Holland Pkwy. / US 17 at E. Georgia St.

Red Light cameras have proven effective in reducing crashes, serious injuries, and fatalities. Similar red-light safety programs across the U.S. gathered 4.6 million red-light citations in 2023, with a recidivism rate of 84%, indicating most violators do not repeat their illegal behavior.

The fine amount for a red-light safety camera violation, governed by Florida Statute § 316.0083, is $158 for each offense. Of that amount, $70 is remitted to the Florida Department of Revenue for deposit into the General Revenue Fund, $10 goes to the Florida Department of Health Emergency Medical Services Trust Fund, $3 to the Florida Department of Revenue for deposit into the Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund, and $75 is retained by the City of Bartow.

Red Light Camera citations are not considered “moving violations.” As such, no points are assessed and a citation will not affect your insurance rates. More information about the program can be found at www.cityofbartow.net/512/Red-Light-Camera-Safety-Program .”

Red Flag Warning Issued for Polk County

Staff Reporter
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Red Flag Warning Issued for Polk County

The National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin Florida has issued a Red Flag Warning. Details:

…CRITICALLY LOW HUMIDITY WITH GUSTY WINDS WILL RESULT IN ELEVATED FIRE DANGER…

The National Weather Service in Ruskin has issued a Fire Weather Warning for low humidity, breezy westerly winds, and moderate significant fire potential expected this afternoon. The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin has issued a Red Flag Warning, which is in effect from 2 PM this afternoon to 7 PM EDT this evening.

* AFFECTED AREA…Polk.

*TIMING…From 2 PM this afternoon to 7 PM EDT this evening.

*WINDS…West around 15 mph with gusts up to 20 mph.

*RELATIVE HUMIDITY…As low as 30 percent.

* IMPACTS…Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Two Suspects Arrested for Lakeland Burglary, Stolen Property Recovered

Carl Fish
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Two Suspects Arrested for Lakeland Burglary, Stolen Property Recovered

On Thursday, April 10th, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrested 44-year-old Christopher Lee and 43-year-old Shari Conard, both of Lakeland, in connection with an alleged burglary that occurred on April 5th. The incident reportedly involved the theft of a trailer, a go-cart, and two kayaks from a Lakeland property.

Detectives linked the crime to a silver Dodge Ram allegedly used during the burglary. A similar vehicle was located on Winchester Drive, less than 1,000 feet from the crime scene. Investigators observed an item, similar in size to the stolen go-cart, under a blue tarp in the truck bed. A trailer, also partially covered, was seen on the property and resembled the one reported stolen.

When deputies surrounded the property, both suspects allegedly attempted to flee from the back of the house but were quickly apprehended, thanks in part to Deputy Holley and his K9 partner, Buck.

Lee and Conard allegedly confessed to the crime. Deputies recovered the stolen property, including the trailer, kayaks, and go-cart.

Lee and Conard were transported to the Polk County Jail and charged with burglary, grand theft, conspiracy to commit burglary, loitering and prowling, and resisting arrest without violence. Conard was additionally charged with providing false identification to law enforcement and had an outstanding warrant from Citrus County for failure to appear on charges related to possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

Lee has 13 prior felony convictions, including aggravated assault, armed burglary, and sale of methamphetamine. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

🎉 Exciting Music Events Happening This Weekend in Winter Haven & Nearby Areas! 🌴

Staff Reporter
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🎉 Exciting Music Events Happening This Weekend in Winter Haven & Nearby Areas! 🌴

April 11, 2025 | By Kip Kirchberg

Hey there, music lovers! The weekend of April 11–13, 2025, is set to bring some incredible tunes to Winter Haven and the surrounding Central Florida spots. From rock shows and acoustic sets to karaoke and music bingo, there’s something for every vibe. Grab your friends, check out these events, and let’s make it a musical weekend to remember! 🎶✨

Friday, April 11, 2025

🎶 Music Bingo – Totally ’80s! (Lake Wales)

  • When: 6:00 PM
  • Where: 229 E Stuart Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: Get ready for a blast from the past with 80s Music Bingo! One person’s confirmed—join the fun and test your retro song knowledge in Lake Wales.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Josh Baldwin in concert for Refuge on the Ridge (Lake Wales)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: HighPoint Church, Lake Wales, FL
  • What’s Happening: Worship with Josh Baldwin live! Seventy-seven people are interested in this inspiring concert at HighPoint Church—just a short drive from Winter Haven.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Red Headed Stepchild Live at The Apple Lounge & Grill (Winter Haven)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Rock out with Red Headed Stepchild! Three people are confirmed for this live show—kick off your weekend with some grit and groove.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Josh Blevins Live at Tanners Lakeside (Winter Haven)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Josh Blevins brings his tunes lakeside! Eighteen people are interested—perfect for a chill Friday night by the water.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Phil Keaggy Live (Lakeland)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: Trinity Presbyterian Church, Lakeland, FL
  • What’s Happening: Guitar legend Phil Keaggy takes the stage! Twenty-seven people are interested in this nearby Lakeland show—don’t miss this masterful performance.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 The Highway 41 TRIO returns to LA’s Midway Saloon (Nearby Area)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: LA’s Midway Saloon
  • What’s Happening: The Highway 41 Trio is back! Five people are confirmed for this show at LA’s Midway Saloon—a great option for a local music night.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Grupo Bomba Tropical (Haines City)

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: 124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City, FL 33844
  • What’s Happening: Dance the night away with Grupo Bomba Tropical! Fifty-five people are interested in this lively Latin music event in nearby Haines City.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Swemo Night (Emo Night Taylor’s Version) (Lakeland)

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: 1023 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33803
  • What’s Happening: Emo fans, this one’s for you! Forty-nine people are interested in this Taylor Swift-inspired emo night in Lakeland—bring your feelings and your voice!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Hit the Shark! @ The Barter Box (Lakeland)

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: Quinteassence, Lakeland, FL
  • What’s Happening: Hit the Shark rocks The Barter Box! Three people are confirmed for this energetic show in Lakeland—a fun Friday night option.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Anisette $8pp (Lakeland)

  • When: 8:35 PM
  • Where: 1015 S Florida Ave, Lakeland, FL
  • What’s Happening: Catch Anisette for just $8 per person! Two people are confirmed for this late-night music vibe in Lakeland—affordable and awesome.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 B.Haven Live at Camp Margaritaville (Auburndale)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: Camp Margaritaville, Auburndale, FL
  • What’s Happening: B.Haven brings the party to Camp Margaritaville! Ten people are interested in this nearby Auburndale show—perfect for a tropical music escape.
  • Event Link: Event Link

Saturday, April 12, 2025

🎶 Live Music with The Logans (Lake Wales)

  • When: 6:00 PM
  • Where: 229 E Stuart Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: The Logans bring live music to Lake Wales! One person’s confirmed—join them for a cozy Saturday evening just down the road.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Daniel Pepin live at Haven Coffee Roasters (Winter Haven)

  • When: 9:00 AM
  • Where: Haven Coffee Roasters, Winter Haven, FL
  • What’s Happening: Start your day with Daniel Pepin’s morning melodies! One person’s confirmed—perfect for a coffee-and-music combo.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Rock Bands with Horns (Winter Haven)

  • When: 11:30 AM
  • Where: 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Rock out with a twist—horns included! Three people are confirmed for this midday show—bring your energy to Central Ave!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Eric Grubb & Bobby Long Live at The Apple Lounge & Grill (Winter Haven)

  • When: 12:00 PM
  • Where: 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Eric Grubb and Bobby Long keep the tunes flowing! One person’s in—join them for a tasty lunch with live music.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Samantha Lindsey Original Songs – Old Man Franks with Jim and Judy Duo (Winter Haven)

  • When: 2:00 PM
  • Where: Old Man Frank’s, Winter Haven, FL
  • What’s Happening: Samantha Lindsey shares her originals with the Jim and Judy Duo! One person’s confirmed—enjoy this afternoon of local talent.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Matt Venuti: AmeriCosmos Live (Lake Wales)

  • When: 3:30 PM
  • Where: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: Matt Venuti brings his unique AmeriCosmos sound! Twenty-six people are interested—catch this nearby show for something different.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Diamond Rio Live in Auburndale, FL (Auburndale)

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Lake Myrtle Sports Complex, Auburndale, FL
  • What’s Happening: Country stars Diamond Rio hit the stage! A whopping 608 people are interested—head to Auburndale for this big nearby concert.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 TWIZTED ROCK @ DIAMOND RIO CONCERT (Auburndale)

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Lake Myrtle Sports Complex, Auburndale, FL
  • What’s Happening: TWIZTED ROCK joins the Diamond Rio lineup! Forty-seven people are interested—double the music, double the fun in Auburndale!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Harlequin Live at Tanners Lakeside (Winter Haven)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Harlequin rocks Tanners Lakeside! Ten people are interested—get ready for a high-energy evening by the water.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Out of the Box at the Ghostlight Lounge (Winter Haven)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: The GhostLight Lounge, Winter Haven, FL
  • What’s Happening: Out of the Box brings something fresh! Three people are confirmed for this creative music night—check it out!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Josh Blevins LIVE (Haines City)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: 124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City, FL 33844
  • What’s Happening: Josh Blevins plays again—this time in Haines City! Two people are confirmed for this nearby evening gig.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 La Musique with the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra (Lakeland)

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland, FL 33801
  • What’s Happening: Classical vibes with the Lakeland Symphony! Thirty-four people are interested in this orchestral night—elegant and close by.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 FLORIDAZE w/ special guest Driftone live @ Jessie’s (Winter Haven)

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: 118 3rd St SW, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: FLORIDAZE and Driftone light up Jessie’s Lounge! Twenty-two people are interested—perfect for a late-night Winter Haven jam.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Performing at The Brass Tap (Lakeland)

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: The Brass Tap – Lakeside Village, Lakeland, FL
  • What’s Happening: Live music at The Brass Tap! One person’s confirmed—enjoy craft beer and tunes in nearby Lakeland.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 gabrielknowseverything and guests (Lakeland)

  • When: 8:30 PM
  • Where: 1015 S Florida Ave, Lakeland, FL
  • What’s Happening: gabrielknowseverything and friends take the stage! Ten people are interested—late-night vibes in Lakeland await.
  • Event Link: Event Link

Sunday, April 13, 2025

🎶 Acoustic Dose Live at Tanners Lakeside (Winter Haven)

  • When: 2:00 PM
  • Where: 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Unwind with Acoustic Dose by the lake! One person’s confirmed—perfect for a mellow Sunday afternoon in Winter Haven.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 B.Haven Live at the Twisted Prop (Nearby Area)

  • When: 2:00 PM
  • Where: The Twisted Prop Bar & Grille
  • What’s Happening: B.Haven plays The Twisted Prop! Three people are confirmed—enjoy this local Sunday show with a laid-back vibe.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Sunday Funday w Running Reckless! (Winter Haven)

  • When: 3:00 PM
  • Where: Caribbean Bay Bar, Winter Haven, FL
  • What’s Happening: Running Reckless heats up Sunday Funday! Eighty-eight people are interested—join the party at Caribbean Bay for a big finish!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Cordero Music Battle of the Bands (Lakeland)

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Union Hall, Lakeland, FL
  • What’s Happening: Bands battle it out in Lakeland! One person’s confirmed—head over to cheer on your favorites in this epic showdown.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Battle of the Bands, Third Annual (Lakeland)

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Union Hall, Lakeland, FL
  • What’s Happening: Another Battle of the Bands—third annual edition! Twenty-four people are interested—catch this nearby competition!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 MARIACHI NIGHT (Haines City)

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: 94 Maxcy Plaza Circle, Haines City, FL
  • What’s Happening: Celebrate with Mariachi Night! One person’s confirmed—enjoy authentic mariachi music in nearby Haines City to close out the weekend.
  • Event Link: Event Link

What an incredible weekend of music in Winter Haven and beyond! Whether you’re into rock, country, acoustic, or a good old band battle, there’s something for everyone. Which event are you most excited to catch? Drop a comment below, and I’ll see you out there enjoying the tunes! 🌟🎉

City of Winter Haven Seeking Bids for Painting & Pressure Washing Services

Staff Reporter
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City of Winter Haven Seeking Bids for Painting & Pressure Washing Services

The City of Winter Haven is seeking bids for an Annual Contract – Painting & Pressure Washing Services. Qualified vendors are encouraged to review the details and submit their bids at: https://app.negometrix.com/buyer/690/tenders.

For questions, contact Scott Eilers at [email protected].

Source: City of Winter Haven, FL

Celebrate Earth Day with the Great Winter Haven Clean-Up

Staff Reporter
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Celebrate Earth Day with the Great Winter Haven Clean-Up

Celebrate Earth Day with the Great Winter Haven Clean-Up!

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Join us in making a difference right in your own neighborhood!

Pick up litter in front of your home or nearby
Snap a photo of your cleanup
Tag us on social media OR email your photo to [email protected]

You could win a prize for doing your part!

Small Acts, Big Impact! Thank you for celebrating with us!

Source: City of Winter Haven, FL

City of Winter Haven Seeking Bids

Staff Reporter
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City of Winter Haven Seeking Bids

The City of Winter Haven is currently seeking bids for four 19′ x 9″ 18 oz vinyl hipped canopy cabana covers (replacement) in royal blue. For more information and to submit a bid, visit: https://ow.ly/T2ct50VuVrJ.

For questions, contact David Saltman at 863-291-5690 or [email protected].

Winter Haven Police Department Job Fair May 3

Staff Reporter
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Winter Haven Police Department Job Fair May 3

Winter Haven Public Safety Department:

Join Our Police Department Job Fair!

May 3 from 10 AM – 2 PM

Location: 125 N S Lake Silver Dr NW

$5,000 Bonus for Experienced FL Sworn Officers ($2,000 for non-experienced)

Starting Salary: $60,714.24

Ready to serve and protect? Take the next step in your career! Don’t miss this opportunity, join our team!

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