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Haines City “Never Too Busy for Veterans” on Memorial Day 

Allison
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Haines City “Never Too Busy for Veterans” on Memorial Day 

Haines City “Never Too Busy for Veterans” on Memorial Day

by James Coulter

A few days ago, while visiting a local eatery for lunch, Haines City Vice Mayor Jayne Hall saw a veteran sitting all by himself. She went over to him to thank him for his service. He, in turn, thanked her for thanking her, and he invited her to have lunch with him.

“I was about to tell him I was busy, but I stopped myself,” Hall said, explaining why she decided to share lunch with him. “This gentleman was not busy when he went to sign himself to serve his country. He was not busy when he got up to put his uniform on to go out and fight for his country. That man was not busy…I will never ever be too busy to give some time for a veteran.”

Vice Mayor Hall shared this heart-warming anecdote during the Haines City Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday morning. She and several other city officials appeared at Railroad Park in Downtown Haines City to pay their respects along with several other residents, including local veterans.

The ceremony opened with the pledge of allegiance and the national anthem, followed by a prayer offered by Parks and Recreation Director Terrel Griffin. He mentioned how many of the people gathered there that day were only able to do so because of the sacrifices made by those who fought and died within the armed forces.

“We can never be grateful enough for the sacrifices they made, and we are humbled by their willingness to put their own lives aside for the benefit of ours,” he said. “Father, carve their sacrifices into our hearts, so we may never forget the loss of these heroes…Guide us and make us worthy of the sacrifices from which we have benefited. We pray we never forget how truly blessed we are as a nation, as a people, and as your children.”

Leah West, Outreach Representative and Immigration Specialist, appeared on behalf of Senator Darren Soto to offer his remarks on his behalf. As someone who has met and visited with armed forces service members during his travels to Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, and the border of Syria, he has witnessed firsthand their “courage and fortitude.”

Soto also mentioned the $55 billion America is currently providing to military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, mentioning how many brave men and women are continuing to fight to preserve the freedom of others here and abroad.

“This is the battle between democracy and authoritarianism, and it is a battle we cannot afford to lose,” West said on his behalf. “America has fought many battles, and we will continue to prevail.”

The ceremony concluded that morning with the laying of the wreath near the flagpoles and memorial pavers in Railroad Park with a performance of “Amazing Grace” followed by a three-shot volley and playing of “Taps.” Mayor Anne Huffmanconcluded with a reminder of the importance of that national holiday.

“We take this time to remember and honor the men and women in our armed forces who gave the ultimate sacrifice,” she said. “It is also a time that we should lift the heavy hearts of their survivors and their families, who not only grieve them one day a year but every day of the year. We thank you veterans for all you have done, and it is a great day to be an American.”

Lake Wales Man Arrested After Exposing Himself to Teen in Restaurant

Carl Fish
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Lake Wales Man Arrested After Exposing Himself to Teen in Restaurant


 

Lake Wales Man Arrested After Exposing Himself to Teen in Restaurant

On May 28, 2022 a sixteen year old female was eating dinner with her family at the Burger King restaurant located at 100 Highway 60 E in Lake Wales. 

During the visit the teen noticed a male staring at her,which continued for several minutes. Moments later the girl noticed the male had his genitals exposed through the leg of his shorts as he stared at her. The girl told her guardians who contacted the store manager and confronted the male. As soon as he was confronted the male fled the area on a bicycle. 

During the investigation Detectives were able to identify the male as 57 year old Lenvent Jones of Lake Wales. Jones was located on June 1, 2022 and interviewed. During his interview he admitted to being at the restaurant at the time of the event but denied exposing himself. He was taken into custody for exposure of sexual organs, possession of cocaine, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was later transported to the Polk County jail. 

If you have any information regarding this incident please contact the Lake Wales Police Department at 863-678-4223.

Lakeland Woman Charged With Grand Theft & Forgery Against Her Lake Wales Employer

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Woman Charged With Grand Theft & Forgery Against Her Lake Wales Employer

Lake Wales, Florida – The Lake Wales Police Department has arrested Melanie Anne Stevens (DOB: 06/16/61) of Lime Tree Lane, Lakeland. Stevens is being charged with the criminal offense of (3 counts) uttering forged instrument and (1 count) grand theft against her employer Huston Cadillac Buick GMC of Lake Wales.

Here is a redacted excerpt of the arrest affidavit. 

It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by the Lake Wales Police Department. These facts are up for question and everyone is entitled to question the validity of facts by law enforcement in a court of law. The Daily Ridge does not rewrite these facts as some meanings or interpretations could be in error and change context. We hope readers appreciate being able to read the information and come to

“On 05/19/2022, Melanie Anne Stevens was arrested for the criminal offense of (3 counts) uttering forged instrument and (1 count) grand theft.
Huston Cadillac Buick GMC, located at 21301 Highway 27, employed the defendant, Melanie Stevens. Stevens was in the position of issuing checks and payments for the Tag and Title department. Stevens had access to the
dealership’s checks and had the authority to generate checks to be paid. Stevens was required to have all checks signed by the owner of the dealership, REDACTED before the checks were payable.


On 05/09/2022, Stevens generated a check, which was to be issued to a customer under Internal Control Number REDACTED. The check number was REDACTED, in the amount of $563.08. Stevens issued the check to herself by entering her name “Melanie Bevins” on the check. It was later discovered “Bevins” was Melanie Stevens maiden name. Stevens then signed the check herself and later deposited the check into her bank account at Mid Florida bank. Stevens failed to present the check to REDACTED for approval and did not make him aware of the check being issued.


On 05/18/2022, Stevens generated two separate checks. The first check which was to be issued to a customer under Internal Control Number REDACTED. The check number was REDACTED, in the amount of $106.98. Stevens issued the check to herself by entering her name “Melanie Bevins” on the check. The second check was to be issued to a
customer under Internal Control Number REDACTED. The check number was REDACTED, in the amount of $440.86.


Stevens issued the check to herself by entering her name “Melanie Bevins”. Stevens failed to present the checks to REDACTED for approval and did not make him aware of the check being issued.
On 05/18/2022, REDACTED was made aware of Stevens issuing a dealership check to herself and cashing the check on 05/09/2022. REDACTED also discovered Stevens issued two more dealership checks to herself on 05/18/2022. At the time of REDACTED discovering the forged checks, the two checks issued on 05/18/2022 had not been withdrawn from the dealership’s bank account, therefore REDACTED did not have a copy of
the issued checks.


On 05/19/2022, REDACTED responded to the Lake Wales Police Department to report the incident. REDACTED provided a copy of the check issued on 05/09/2022 and a copy of the two invoices for 05/18/2022. REDACTED provided a sworn taped statement confirming he did not provide Stevens with permission or consent to generate, issue or cash the above mentioned checks. REDACTED confirmed the signature on Check Number (REDACTED) which was issued on 05/09/2022, was not his signature.”


On 05/19/2022, I responded to 21301 Highway 27, to meet with Melanie Stevens and REDACTED regarding the incident. I met with Stevens and conducted a non-custodial taped interview. Stevens was informed numerous times, she was free to leave at any time. Stevens willingly provided a statement regarding the incident.


Stevens willingly confessed to generating the above mentioned checks and depositing the checks into her Mid Florida bank account for her sole gain. Stevens alleged she was going through medical issues and needed money to pay for her procedures. Stevens confessed she knowingly and willingly accessed the dealership’s checks, generated the checks utilizing the customer’s account but wrote her name on the checks to have the funds issued to her. Stevens advised the amounts on the checks were the refund amounts to be issued to the customer for each account. Stevens confessed she then signed the checks herself. Stevens knew what she did was wrong and
was sorry for committing the act. Melanie Stevens passed or offered to pass as true, 3 Huston Cadillac Buick GMC dealership checks, Melanie Stevens knew the checks to be forged, and intended to injure or defraud some person or firm.
Melanie Stevens knowingly and unlawfully obtained or used the funds totally $1,110.92 belonging to REDACTED, she did so with the intent to, either temporarily or permanently deprive REDACTED of his right to the property or any benefit from it.

Due to the above statements and facts, Melanie Stevens was arrested for the criminal offense of (3 counts) uttering forged instrument and (1 count) grand theft.

Lucky Dog Donuts Raises Proceeds for Lucky Dogs (And Other Rescue Pets) 

Allison
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Lucky Dog Donuts Raises Proceeds for Lucky Dogs (And Other Rescue Pets) 

Lucky Dog Donuts Raises Proceeds for Lucky Dogs (And Other Rescue Pets)

by James Coulter

What better way to start your morning than with a donut? And what could be better than a pastry hot from the cooker and freshly dusted with sugar? If you want a warm, soft donut that melts in your mouth, then check out Lucky Dog Donuts whenever they are in town.

Lucky Dog Donuts appears randomly throughout Lake Wales at different places and times. And yet whenever they arrive, people line up for their freshly-made donuts. Their menu remainssimple with choices of donuts dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar. Sometimes, they make the occasional red velvet or devil’s food cake flavor.

What Lucky Dog lacks in variety, they more than make up in consistency. Customers can expect the same freshly-made donuts made in front of their eyes and ready for their consumption immediately after they order. Unlike, most other shops, their donuts do not sit on the shelf for extended periods to get cold.

“The fact that they are hot and they are fresh [is what our customers love],” said owner Jessica Jarvis. “Nothing ever sits. [At other places], they may sit on the shelf for an hour or two before you get [them], every bag is hot and fresh when they come out and the other cool factor is you get to see them being made right in front of you.”

Jessica purchased the food truck for Lucky Dog Donuts on a total whim. She bought it from its previous owner, who had been attending Florida Flywheelers for the past 12 years. Whenever Jessica would visit, she would always stop by the truck and order a fresh batch of donuts every time. When she learned that the original owner was selling, she decided to buy it for herself, even though she admittedly did not have any prior experience making donuts.

“I got tired of working for everybody else, and I had an opportunity to purchase a donut truck,” she said. “I have no experience making donuts. I have been a waitress and bartender for many years, I also worked at auto parts. I am pretty lucky because the machine makes the donuts.”

To make her donuts, Jessica simply needs to load the machine with her dough, turn it on, and watch as it does the rest of the work stretching the dough, poking holes into each donut, and flipping them over when they cook.

“It is like watching a taffy machine at the beach that stretches it all,” she said. “You get to see the donuts made in front of you. So they are nice and hot and fresh. Never sit for more than 30 seconds to cool for the sugars. Otherwise, it is a novelty being able to see the donuts in the process of being made.”

Aside from making good donuts, Lucky Dog Donuts, true to its name, also gives back to a good cause with proceeds going to rescue pets at Hardee County Medical Clinic. The money raised helps cover the medical costs of adopting a rescue pet, including vaccination, spaying and neutering, and other expenses. As such, adoptees will be able to adopt their new pet for free, Jessica said.

As the owner of three rescue pets herself, she knows the burden of paying the costs of the adoption process. So she hopes that her support will allow people to more freely and easily adopt their own pets with overall less hassle.

“It is near and dear to my heart that not everybody can afford the whole adoption process to spay and neuter and shots and medical care. It gets expensive,” she said. “All of our shelters are overflowing right now, both public and private, so if we can get one dog into a good home and make a family happen and a good companion or emotional support, we are all for it.”

Lucky Dog Donuts appears through Lake Wales at various locations. They often post their schedule at the beginning of the week on Facebook. Previously, they appeared at Camp Mack for a free donut day, and they will be appearing at other locations soon.

“For the future, we are going to make sure that Lake Wales is taken care of and have good snacks in the morning time, but also give back to the community and do good community events,” Jessica said. “Everybody is welcome to come down grab a bottle of water or cup of coffee, have some donuts, socialize, meet the neighbors, meet the community, and give back while they are supporting them.”

For more information, visit their website at: https://www.facebook.com/LuckyDogDonuts

Q&A with County Judicial Candidate John B. Flynn

Staff Reporter
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Q&A with County Judicial Candidate John B. Flynn

by James Coulter

John B. Flynn is currently running as a County Judge in Group 8 in Polk County. With more than 20 years of legal experience, he feels he is best qualified to not only serve as a county judge, but also protect the constitutional rights of his constituents.

“I have spent the last two decades protecting and defending the constitution,” he said. “I believe the Constitution should be respected and to never legislate from the bench. I am experienced, dedicated, and ready to serve the citizens of Polk County.”

He graduated Nova Southeastern with a master’s degree in business and Loyola University with a Juris Doctor. He had intended to work in practice tax law, but later changed his career path for trial work following an internship with the Jefferson Parrish’s District Attorney’s Office. He worked his way up the career ladder, starting as a prosecutor, then serving as a defense attorney, victim advocate, and a trial attorney for over twenty years.

Flynn served as the former Chair of the 10th Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee. He has also served as a former Chair on the Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee and am a member of both the National Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the Polk County Trial Lawyers Association. He contributes to the legal community as a voluntary mediator, a victim advocate and as a member of the Lakeland Bar Association and a former member of the Wilson Inns of Court.

“I bring a lifetime of experience in the courtroom, a belief in the American justice system, and a real desire to serve,” he said. “It is for these reasons that my experience both in the courtroom and in life are essential to meeting the high standards of Judicial service.”

We recently sat down with John B. Flynn to ask him a few questions about his political campaign for county judge. Here is what he had to say:

Q: What qualifies you to be a Judge beyond a law degree?

A: In a word, experience. It is not only more than 20 years in duration. It is real jury trials in high profile, high stakes cases. It is experience on both sides of the courtroom. I have been the assigned prosecutor for the City of Lakeland’s courthouse and as a Felony Prosecutor in Bartow. I have represented individuals accused of a crime and fought to protect their constitutional rights. I understand the law and how the unique dynamics of each case differ. I will remain committed to the investment of time it requires to give each case the attention it deserves and I possess the even temperament required to maintain an orderly and efficient courtroom.

Additionally, I have been previously responsible for investigating and making recommendations to the Florida Supreme Court regarding allegations of misconduct by local attorneys as the chair of the Tenth Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee. I was also the chair of the Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee where we monitored and investigated individuals who held

themselves out as attorneys who were not qualified to do so. Several of those cases led to prosecutions. Finally, I have volunteered to serve as a mediator and arbitrator for the Florida Bar essentially acting as a Judge hearing the evidence regarding disputes between attorneys and their clients.

Q: How will you balance being an independent judge and an elected official?

A: My duty as a judge would to protect the Constitution and individual rights under the constitution. It is my obligation, which I gladly accept, to set aside any concerns about future elections in favor of making sure that everyone that enters my courtroom is treated with fairness, courtesy, and respect. My role is to rule on the evidence that is put before me in accordance with the rules of evidence and the laws of the State of Florida. I have been working in this system long enough to know what my duties are and how to execute them. I will follow my oath in every aspect without hesitation.

Q: What are the biggest changes you think we need to make to our justice system?

A: I would like to eliminate the inefficiencies in the justice system. A major factor in many county court cases is mental health. A better way to deal with these individuals is to utilize court-based diversion programs to help steer these individuals to appropriate counseling and medication necessary to help them be more productive members of society. Polk has successfully implemented three of these problem-solving courts which could be used more widely to help reduce the backlog of cases that we are now experiencing. Modeled after nationally recognized drug courts these programs offer a continuum of drug treatment alternatives to jail for eligible non-violent defendants. These courts increase public safety and reduce crime in a cost-effective manner.

I believe the courts should make use of readily available technology to make more time available on the docket to address issues and motions that have been stalled due to the backlog in the court. At the beginning of my campaign, I met with Sheriff Judd who expressed a desire for the next county court judge to handle things as expeditiously as possible. In his words he does not want an innocent person sitting in jail. I agree with that sentiment completely and I assure the voters that with my experience on both sides of the courtroom that I will be able to prioritize the Covid backlog. I also met with the Clerk of Courts, Stacy M. Butterfield, C.P.A. who expressed a desire for consistency between the Judges, having practiced before all the county judges in our circuit I understand how a courtroom needs to run to keep consistency between the various county courts.

Q: What reforms do you support to increase access to justice for all? Will you fight for them?

A: I don’t believe it is the Judiciary’s place to interject themselves in what the law should be as that is our legislatures’ job. I feel like judges that articulate their views on the law and what it should be undermine the very concept that makes our country so great, the separation of powers. It is not the judicial branches’ place to create or suggest what laws we should have. That responsibility belongs to our voters and who they put in office to govern our great state and

county. I don’t believe it is a judge’s place to interject themselves as to what laws should be implemented or alter the legislative intent behind those that already exist. A judge’s job is to follow and uphold the laws of the state and our county.

As a judge, I would give all those who appear before me equal access to justice whether they are indigent and can’t pay for their own attorney or if they do not have command of the English language. There are laws already in existence that provide attorneys for those who cannot afford them and ensure interpreters are available for those who cannot speak English. I do not feel that it would be my place to do anything above or beyond what we already have in that regard. I also feel like it would be inappropriate for a sitting judge or a judicial candidate to vocalize such beliefs as to what the laws should be to collect more votes.

If our community feels that something else needs to be done, then they are free to vote their conscience and elect representatives that can create laws in keeping with their views. It is not my place as a judge to be a politician and bend the knee to whatever the current events flavor of the day is in terms of pop-culture or trending political views. I wanted to explain myself before I offered you the simple answer of … nothing. I will not support any legislation as a judge because that is not what a Judge should be doing while on the bench or what a candidate should be doing when trying to get elected. In fact, I know that there are legal constraints on what views a judge may articulate in adherence to the cannons of conduct. I hope this answers your question sufficiently. The reality is my personal political views are not relevant when I am charged with the grave responsibility of following the laws we have. As your judge that is exactly what I will intend to do.

59 Yr Old PGA Golfer Killed In Polk County Crash

Carl Fish
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59 Yr Old PGA Golfer Killed In Polk County Crash

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office investigated a two-vehicle crash in unincorporated Polk City this afternoon that resulted in one fatality. Around 12:20 p.m. the ECC received a 911 call from the area of SR 33 at Flanders Station Drive in Polk City. When first responders arrived on-scene they located 59-year-old Barton Bryant of Auburndale unresponsive, and immediately began CPR. He was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. His wife, Donna (49-years-old), was transported to a hospital with minor injuries. They were the only two occupants of their vehicle, a white Volkswagen SUV.

 

According to the investigation so far, flaggers equipped with flags, cones, and signs working with a construction crew had stopped both northbound and southbound traffic on SR 33, and Bryant’s Volkswagen was the last car in the line stopped in the southbound lane. A black 2011 Ford F-150 pickup truck being driven by 21-year-old Mark Farkas of Clermont was heading southbound at highway speed (the speed limit in the area is 60 MPH) and failed to stop, striking the Volkswagen in the rear. Farkas was not injured. It is unknown at this time why Farkas did not see the stopped SUV, and the investigation is ongoing.

Bart Bryant PGA Golfer Killed In Polk County Crash

Barton Holan Bryant (born November 18, 1962) was an American professional golfer who played on the PGA Tour and Champions Tour. Bryant was born in Gatesville, Texas and was married twice. His first wife Cathy died of cancer. He has two daughters. His second wife Donna was also injured in the crash. Bryant turned pro in 1986 and had $14,477,395 in career earnings.

SR 33 was closed for approximately four hours during the investigation.

Bart Bryant Won the 2018 Dick’s Sporting Goods Open Championship

Polk County Fire Rescue Paramedic Charged With Assaulting A Elderly Handicapped Patient

Carl Fish
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Polk County Fire Rescue Paramedic Charged With Assaulting A Elderly Handicapped Patient

Bartow Police Department Press Release

On the evening of 5/24/22, Bartow Police Department Officers responded to the Bartow Center located at Georgia St, Bartow, FL, in reference to a request for assistance from Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) personnel regarding an uncooperative patient. PCFR were already on scene attending to a 67-year-old physically handicapped patient. It was determined by PCFR personnel that the patient needed to be transported to Bartow Regional Medical Center for medical reasons. At some point during the incident, the patient was placed on the gurney and was being restrained by four (4) emergency responders. The defendant, PCFR Paramedic Matthew Mullins, had one knee on the chest of the patient and punched him on the forehead with a closed fist while stating something to the effect of “I’m from Combee, we don’t play that.” At that point, Officers from the Bartow Police Department intervened and ordered Mullins off the patient. The patient was then immediately transported to the hospital by the EMT and Mullins via ambulance for the original medical issue. The victim did not sustain injury from Mullins’ action.

Due to Bartow Officers and Bartow Fireman believing the restraint methods used by Mullins was excessive, Mullins’ supervisor at PCFR was immediately notified of the incident by City of Bartow first responders. During the course of the police investigation and after all interviews were conducted with potential witnesses, Bartow Detectives determined the actions by Mullins were not in self-defense or medically necessary. The victim did not display any physical threat towards anyone at the scene when he was punched by Mullins. In fact, he was being physically restrained by other emergency responders and under control at the time. At the completion of the investigation, Mullins was charged with Felony Battery on a person 65 years of age or older. All attempts to locate and arrest Mullins were initially unsuccessful; therefore, on Friday, May 27, 2022 Bartow Detectives secured an outstanding arrest warrant for Mullins for the criminal charges. Members of the Bartow Police Department continued to search for Mullins throughout the weekend, however, met with negative results.

On 5/31/2022, Mullins responded to the Bartow Police Department and was arrested on the outstanding warrant.

“The action Mullins did to a member of the senior community was completely uncalled for. There is never a reason for first responders to use force on someone who is not deemed a physical threat. It does not matter if you are a police officer, fire personnel or medical personnel. Wrong is wrong and Mr. Mullins will have to face the consequences of his actions through the criminal justice process.” said Chief of Police Bryan Dorman.

Here is a redacted excerpt of the arrest affidavit.

It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by the Bartow Police Department. These facts are up for question and everyone is entitled to question the validity of facts by law enforcement in a court of law. The Daily Ridge does not rewrite these facts as some meanings or interpretations could be in error and change context. We hope readers appreciate being able to read the information and come to their own understanding and conclusions:

“The victim in this case is a 67-year-old black male who suffers from Parkinson Disease which causes him to shake and move his hands and legs uncontrollably. The victim can walk however, he is normally confined to a wheelchair due to the disease and deterioration and weakness of muscles.
The victim currently resides at REDACTED and is unable to care for himself without assistance from the facility.


The defendant is employed by Polk County Emergency Medical Services and did respond to the aforementioned location on 5-24-2022. The call for service was indicated to be for an injured person however, the notes updated in the call specifically stated BAKER ACT/PATIENT COMBATIVE
Bartow Polce Department Officers were requested and responded to assist EMS with a combative patient. The victim was observed on the floor with his wheelchair in the immediate vicinity. The defendant did tell the victim to get on the stretcher at which time the victim began to scoot his body into another room to evade transport.
The defendant did enter the area the victim scooted his body to and grabbed the victim by the clothing.
The defendant then began dragging the victim back to the area of the stretcher.
The defendant and his EMS partner, Kyan Atwood then picked the victim up. The defendant grabbed the victim by his arms and Atwood grabbed the victim by his legs lifting him in the air.

The defendant then dropped the victim because
he realized the stretcher was positioned in the opposite direction, they were attempting to load him. Meaning the victim’s feet were at the head portion of the stretcher and the victim’s head was positioned at the feet portion of the stretcher.


The defendant then turned the stretcher around, at which time he and Atwood picked the victim up again and threw the victim onto the stretcher in the correct position. Bartow Firetighter Meeks began assisting in holding the victim’s hand so that soft restraints could be secured. The defendant then placed his knee on the victim’s abdomen holding him down. During this time Atwood was holding the victim’s legs. The defendant was not able
to move and completely retrained from harming himself or others. The defendant then reached back balling his fist and struck the victim about the forehead area of his face as he was already being restrained. The defendant made the comment (not verbatim) I’m from Combee we don’t play this shit, are you done being a fucking idiot.
Officer Ledford told the defendant if you hit him again, I am I going to fucking arrest you.
The victim was transported to Bartow Regional Medical Center by defendant and Atwood. The victim was later transported to LRMC whereas he was diagnosed with a severe urinary tract infection which was a major contributor to his mental status.
Your affiant has found that there is sufficient evidence that the defendant’s behavior to be consistent with abuse on an elderly person. The defendant failed to use due care in the treatment of the victim and furthermore struck him about the face against his will during a time when medical treatment was necessary to ensure his wellbeing.”

Lake Wales 19 Yr Old Charged With Sex Crimes Against Minor

Carl Fish
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Lake Wales 19 Yr Old Charged With Sex Crimes Against Minor

In early May 2022, Lake Wales Police began investigating a sexual battery involving an underage victim and an adult male. During the investigation Detectives learned the suspect and victim met on social media and began communicating. As conversations progressed the suspect coerced the victim into sending him explicit photos. During later conversations the suspect used the photos to blackmail the victim into meeting him in person, threatening to release the photos on social media for everyone to see if she didn’t meet. During their first in person meeting, the suspect sexually battered the victim. 

On Friday May 20, 2022, the suspect traveled to meet the victim a second time using the threat of exposing the explicit pictures as a reason for the meeting. Upon arrival, Lake Wales Police Detectives were present and took him into custody.

Arrested was 19 year old Alex Lavon Cooper of Lake Wales. Cooper was charged with Sexual Battery, False Imprisonment and Unlawful use of a 2-way communication device. During an interview, Cooper admitted to meeting the victim but denied any other wrongdoing.    

Detectives do not believe this is Cooper’s only victim. If you think your child may have been in contact with Cooper, please contact the Lake Wales Police Department. If you have any information regarding this incident please contact the Lake Wales Police Department at 863-678-4223.

Writers On the Ridge: “The Commodore and the Powder Monkey” by Mark Barie 

Allison
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Writers On the Ridge: “The Commodore and the Powder Monkey” by Mark Barie 

Writers On the Ridge: “The Commodore and the Powder Monkey” by Mark Barie

The following is an excerpt from “The Commodore and the Powder Monkey”, the award-winning historical fiction novel by Mark Barie. To read the full story, check out his novel on Barnes & Noble and Amazon in e-book and paperback. Follow the links below for more details.

*****

“I thought I’d find you here.”

Charlie dabbed at her eyes and twisted to see the man who interrupted her time alone.

“Dr. Coldwell,” she said, unsmiling.

“Did you enjoy your dinner?” he asked.

“Yes, very much so,” she answered, turning her back on the man.

Nathan shifted from one foot to the other. The awkward silence seemed to make him fidget all the more. Charlie spoke first, still talking to the open lake.

“You came all the way out here to ask me if I enjoyed my dinner?”

Nathan took a deep breath.

“No, Charlie. I wanted to speak with you.” 

“I have no interest in listening to another one of your condescending lectures,” she said, pleased that her anger had such a positive effect on her language skills.

Nathan approached the crate and stood in front of her. He stood in silence until she looked up.

“For some time, now, I have refrained from the consumption of alcohol. And I am much the better for it. And while I can easily tolerate the absence of rum, I am not at all sure that I can tolerate your absence.”

Charlie turned away to hide her startled face. Nathan continued.

“My words of the past have offended you. And rightfully so. I wish to formally apologize and beg your forgiveness,” said Nathan, running fingers through his hair and biting his lip.

Charlie refused to look at him. She doubted Nathan’s sincerity and remained angry with him, sincere apology or not. A snide comment about the stubbornness of men rose in her throat but she swallowed the words. She persisted in her silence. Nathan’s head drooped. He turned to leave. She didn’t want the conversation to end in that way.

“I’m still angry with you, Mr. Coldwell.”

Nathan stood motionless.

“I know. I’m angry with myself,” he said.

“I don’t understand,” she said. 

Nathan looked for anyone within earshot.

“Charlie, you are unlike any woman that I have ever met in the past.”

“Is that supposed to be a compliment?” asked Charlie, still suspicious of the doctor’s sincerity.

“Yes. It is the highest compliment I can give you.”

He went onto explain that for all of his adult life, women were treated as no more than the accessories of life, by their husbands, their adult sons, their friends and their acquaintances. Nathan’s voice trembled with emotion.

“I learned by their example, Charlie. But I learned all of the wrong things.” 

Charlie’s heart pounded in her chest.

“I make no excuses but I am entitled to an explanation. I was never taught to treat a woman as my equal. And then you came along. When you were a boy, I loathed you because I was attracted to you. When you revealed your true identity, I no longer loathed you. I was afraid of you,” he said.

“Because I am your equal?” she asked.

“No, Charlie.”

The girl frowned.

“Because you are better than my equal,” said Nathan.

Charlie rose to her feet. She couldn’t believe what she just heard. Nathan went on.

“You are so smart, Charlie, and I don’t mean book smart. My brain is filled with the stuff of medical journals. But I know a fraction of what you know, about a man’s heart and soul. You are kind and generous and loving. Even to underserving men like me,” Nathan said, his voice soft, his eyes moist with tears. “And you are the bravest woman I know,” he added, biting his lower lip as several tears escaped and ran down his cheeks.

Charlie trembled. Her voice choked with emotion. She used the sleeve of her fine, blue jacket and wiped at the tears that streaked both cheeks. 

“You have accomplished the impossible, Nathan Coldwell. I am without words,” she said.

“I’m not finished,” he answered, his voice stronger and more determined.

She panicked, thinking that his next words might erase all of those perfect words.

“My heart is full, Nathan Coldwell. You need say nothing more.”

“But I must,” he said. 

“What is it?”

“I love you, Charlotte Wheeler.”

###

About the Author

Mark Barie is an Award-Winning author, originally from upstate New York. His debut novel, the first installment in a trilogy on love and war, garnered national attention when War calls, Love Cries, a Civil War love story, was designated as a Finalist in the Prestigious Eric Hoffer book Awards. It also won a gold medal for Historical Fiction from the Florida Authors and Publishers Association. (FAPA)

His second novel, Sister Marguerite and the Captain, about a nun who leaves the convent and ends up spying for George Washington, received rave reviews and a silver medal from FAPA for its beautiful cover. 

Barie’s third novel, The Commodore and the Powder Monkey is about a girl, disguised as a boy, on the Commodore’s flag ship during the War of 1812. This mesmerizing love story triggered an international reaction. The Independent Publisher Group awarded the novel its bronze medal for Military Fiction. More than 5000 authors from all over the United States, Canada, and a dozen countries in English-speaking Europe, vied for these prestigious medals, in what is now the largest book awards competition in the world.

For more information about his work, visit his website at: https://www.markbarie.com

Welcome, World Travelers! Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is Nuts! (Spoiler-Free Review) 

Allison
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Welcome, World Travelers! Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is Nuts! (Spoiler-Free Review) 

Welcome, World Travelers! Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is Nuts! (Spoiler-Free Review)

by James Coulter

As someone who grew up in the 1990s, I loved the Disney Afternoon. Every day after school, I would hop off the bus, turn on the television, and spend my free time watching cartoons like TaleSpin, Darkwing Duck, and Chip n’ Dale Rescue Rangers. So I am the target audience for the Rescue Rangers movie. While the show was not my favorite (that honor belongs to Darkwing Duck), I was at least intrigued by a live-action theatrical adaptation.

And then the trailer was released earlier this year. And…well, it was certainly…something!

Chip was a 2D-animated character voiced by John Mulaney. Dale was a 3D-animated character voiced by Andy Samberg. They both resided in a live-action setting where people and cartoons live together like in Roger Rabbit—and Roger Rabbit is also in it! Other characters include those from non-Disney properties like My Little Pony, 2019’s Cats, 2005’s Beowulf. And, apparently, the villain is a character who looks like a middle-aged, overweight Peter Pan.

Again, the trailer was…something!

Most people had no idea what to make of the movie. Some assumed it would be awful. Others, like myself, hoped it would at least be so bad it’s good. But now that it has officially been released on Disney Plus, how is the Rescue Rangers movie? Did these two gumshoes pick up the slack, or is this some crime that slipped through the crack?

In this movie, Chip and Dale reside in a live-action world where people and animated characters live together. They’re both actors who played their respective roles in Rescue Rangers. After its cancellation, they had a falling out and went their separate ways. Nearly 30 years later, Chip is working as an insurance agent, while Dale has converted himself into a 3D-animated character who now makes guest apperances at fan conventions. Both former friends reunite following the disappearance of their co-actor, who has become one of many missing toons in a string of kidnappings. Can the two rekindle their friendship and solve this mystery?

Rescue Rangers is most evidently trying to emulate Who Framed Roger Rabbit by portraying animated characters in a live-action setting. To its credit, this movie surpasses Roger Rabbit in the technical aspect by incorporating characters of various animation styles including CGI, stop-motion, and even puppetry. This variety allows for many creative and clever scenes. One character is a police officer who is a stop-motion clay figure who uses his body to collect fingerprints and other clues. No spoilers, but he’s later involved in a fight scene that truly utilizes the flexibility and pliability of his body in cleverand entertaining ways.

Disney could have easily utilized only animated characters from its official canon, yet like Roger Rabbit before it, this movie incorporates characters from other properties from other studios—some of which you would never imagine appearing in a movie like this. It certainly says something that adult animated shows like Rick and Morty, South Park, and Bevis and Butthead are referenced in a Disney movie, of all places!

Rescue Rangers is unafraid to push the boundaries of the Disney brand. While it manages to maintain its PG rating, and it never becomes too “dark” or “mature” for children, it certainly has plenty of adult humor and dark and gritty moments that nearly make you forget you’re watching a movie that opened with the classic castle logo. No spoilers, but for a company that’s highly protective of its brand integrity, Disney seemed perfectly fine portraying one particular legacy character from its classic canon the way it did in this movie. It was certainly an audacious choice, to say the least, if not a divisive one!

Unfortunately, despite spectacularly pushing boundaries, Rescue Rangers seems to toe the line with a standard plot and characters. Stripping away the “animated characters in live-action” gimmick reveals a standard buddy cop movie with equally standard character beats. Its mystery is solved halfway through the movie—and anyone who’s seen the trailer can guess who the main villain is. There’s an attempt at a bait-and-switchlater in the film, but the switch can be seen coming a mile away. Some of the meta jokes and commentary are cleverer than they need to be, but otherwise, the humor is quite mild.

Chip n’ Dale: Rescue Rangers is not bad. It has too much effort and ambition to be bad. It not only wants to be like Roger Rabbit, but exceed it by pushing the technical and corporate boundaries of a Disney movie, yet none of its polish can add shine to an otherwise generic plot and characters. It’s too good to be bad, but not good enough to be great. Overall, it’s an otherwise entertaining movie.

My recommendation: this movie is best watched with a group of friends, preferably millennials (Gen X at the oldest, Gen Z at the youngest) who are old enough to remember the Disney Afternoon. This is a movie where watching other people’s reactions to it only adds to the overall moviegoing experience. So invite a bunch of friends over, watch this movie together, and be prepared to hear people laugh, gasp, and exclaim comments like, “I can’t believe that happened!”

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