On 12/12/2024, APD responded to the Publix located at 775 Hwy 559 in Auburndale, FL in reference to a retail theft. Two (2) unknown white females entered the store on 12/7/2024 and were observed pushing shopping carts around and both carts were full of groceries, hair care items, two massage items, and a thermometer. Both women pushed their carts out of the store at 4:03pm passing all points of sale without making any attempt to pay, depriving the store of approximately $500.
SUSPECT 1 – White Female, mid 50’s, long yellow/blonde hair, LSW a navy-blue blouse w/ white pattern, and blue jeans. SUSPECT 2 – White Female, mid 30’s/40’s, shoulder length yellow/blonde hair, LSW a black leather jacket, and brown cargo pants.
While suspect two (2) was in the store she put on a tan beanie cap before leaving.
If you have any information, please contact Officer Carrizales at 863-965-5555 or email at [email protected]
The Haines City Police Department arrested Jordan F. Simmons after he allegedly took a shower, slept on bed, stole personal items including a handgun and ate food out of the station refrigerator. The incident took place on December 7th.
The following is a redacted, but unedited portion of the Haines City Police Department arrest affidavit (It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by the Haines City 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. A suspect is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.) :
“On 12/7/2024, I Det. Vasquez, responded to the Haines City Fire Department (Station #1) in Haines City, Florida in reference to a subject trespassing in the restricted common area of the fire department. Upon my arrival, I walked into the common area and observed two firefighters conversing with a white male who I later identified via Florida Driver’s license as Jordan Frazier Simmons W/M DOB: 2/6/1979 (Arrested). The firefighters were later identified as Haines City Firefighter REDACTED (Victim) and Haines City Firefighter REDACTED (Witness #1).
I began to gather initial information, and the subject made mention he had permission to be there from a former employee he was related to. I later dispelled this information and ultimately Jordan was detained.
REDACTED notified me the subject had taken a bag belonging to him and loaded his own keys and multitool into the bag as if to claim the bag as his own. Within the bag was miscellaneous clothing to include clothing and a Glock 19 with 15 9mm rounds contained within a magazine. There was no round in the chamber. REDACTED notified me Simmons had taken his bedding from his locker and laid in his bed, soiling his linens and his pillow.
The bag was a brown in color London Fog handbag valued at $200.00. REDACTED learned the subject was wearing his black Nike socks (valued at approximately $20.00) upon learning he was missing his own. I walked out to the patrol car and advised Simmons of his Miranda Warning via an agency issued Miranda Warning card. Post Miranda, Simmons admitted to taking the socks from the bag and putting them on.
REDACTED stated his towel was hanging in the bathroom, and after learning Simmons had showered he went to check the bathroom. Once in the bathroom, REDACTED discovered his towel was wet and used, presumably by Simmons.
Positioned next to the recliner where Simmons was seated comfortably and upon discovery of his presence, was his dirty clothing, a hat, shoes, and a large hatchet approximately 10 inches in length.
REDACTED confirmed via a sworn recorded statement that no one was given permission to open his bag, temporarily deprive him of his personal belongings, or wear his clothing.
I confirmed with Battalion Chief REDACTED that no one had permission to enter the premises or the restricted area within.
At this time a point of entry could not be established, as review of the camera system was not available at this hour.
Upon my arrival at the Police Department to conduct a sworn recorded interview, Simmons declined to speak with law enforcement. Simmons made spontaneous utterances that I was “colluding” against him and putting my career in jeopardy. Simmons went on to inform me he was eating ranch dip from the fire station, which did not belong to him. A criminal history check revealed no prior convictions for theft or burglary.
Simmons was charged accordingly and transported to booking by Officer Armstrong #H1582.”
Don’t Advertise Your Holiday Gifts! Did you know leaving a big TV or electronics box at the curb can make your home a target for thieves? Instead, drop off your large cardboard boxes at our Holiday Cardboard Disposal Sites: -W.G. Rowe Park & Boat Ramp (2269 7th St SW) -Rotary Park (350 6th St NE) -Lake Hartridge Nature Park (1775 Havendale Blvd NW) -Fire Station 3 (6975 Eloise Loop Rd) Cardboard only – no junk, bulk items, or trees. Dates: December 24 – January 1 Keep your home safe and your streets clean this holiday season!
James Gunn is the GOAT! He directed the best Marvel movie, Guardians of the Galaxy. The only film better than that was the second, GOTG: Vol. 2. (GOTG: Vol. 3 wasn’t as great, but it was still pretty good.)
The Guardians movies proved so popular that Warner Bros. decided to make their own version for their DC Comics movie franchise: Suicide Squad—which flopped hard! In fact, it was only after Gunn joined Warner Bros. and directed the sequel/reboot, The Suicide Squad, that the formula finally worked for them.
Now Gunn is set to helm the DC Comics Universe (DCU) moving forward. Next year will officially kick off this new series of comic book movies with a Superman reboot. (And if the teaser trailer is any indicator, it looks awesome!)
Until then, DC Comics has released a new animated series created by Gunn for the Max streaming service: Creature Commandos. But will this series be a graveyard smash of a monster mash? Or…oh, who am I kidding? James Freaking Gunn made it. It’s going to be gold!
When a small European kingdom gets invaded by the evil enchantress Circe, Rick Flag Sr. assembles a band of incarcerated monsters on a rescue mission to save the princess. His team includes the Bride (as in the Bride of Frankenstein), GI Robot (a WW2-era robot with a love for killing Nazis), Weasel (who’s literally a giant weasel), Doctor Phosphorus (a flaming irradiated skeleton), and Nina (a gender-swapped version of the Creature from the Black Lagoon).
While this year hasn’t been great for superhero movies—looking at you Madame Web and Kraven the Hunter!—it has undoubtedly been good for animation. The first animated hit, of course, was X-Men ’97. And now Creature Commandos appears to be the next great thing. As of this review, only four of the seven episodes have been released on Max. However, James Gunn’s animated series appears to be so far, so good.
The animation for both this and X-Men ’97 proves that detailed, comic book-like art styles are not dead. While the current trend of simplistic art styles in animated shows like Steven Universe and Owl House is good, nothing beats animation that looks like comic books come to life.
As for the plot, if James Gunn is good at anything, it’s taking a band of misfits, putting them into over-the-top action scenes, having them bounce witty banter off of each other, and giving them a healthy dose of character depth. It’s what made the Guardians movies great. And it’s what makes this series good.
As always, Gunn effortlessly balances blue humor and gratuitous violence and sex that entices the adolescent sensibilities of viewers with plenty of emotion that makes for sincerely heartfelt moments. Each of the characters gets their own backstory which reveals the humanity within these “monsters.”
The Bride was literally created to be the bride of Frankenstein, but ended up having complicated feelings toward her creator which caused tension in their relationship. GI Robot was designed
solely for killing Nazis during WW2, and struggled to find purpose after the war when there were no more Nazis to kill. And as for Weasel? Well, no spoilers, but Gunn wasn’t kidding when he explained the episode was the saddest thing he’s written.
I’ve managed to binge-watch all of the episodes so far in one sitting, and I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the remaining episodes to be released. I have not been excited about an animated show—or really, any show—in a long time (with the notable exception of Delicious in Dungeon). And if this show is any indicator, the DCU is in capable hands with James Gunn. Godspeed!
On Tuesday, December 24, 2024, at approximately 7:39 p.m., officers responded to a crash involving a pedestrian near the 2100 block of East Edgewood Drive. Based on witness statements and evidence gathered at the scene, prior to the crash, a pedestrian was attempting to cross East Edgewood Drive in a southerly direction when they walked into the path of a 2015 BMW that was traveling eastbound. The driver of the vehicle, 26-year-old Shakur Dexter, stopped and remained at the scene as first responders were en route.
The Lakeland Police Department Patrol Unit, Polk County Fire Rescue, and the Lakeland Fire Department arrived on the scene and began life-saving measures. The pedestrian, later identified as William Crede, age 69, was transported to Lakeland Regional Health. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Crede succumbed to his injuries.
Members of the Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and took over the investigation. The roadway was shut down for approximately two hours while the scene was processed for the ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Officer Travis Payne at [email protected].
On December 18, 2024 Braxton Isaiah Criss passed away in his mothers loving arms surrounded by his loving family and closest friends.
Braxton was born to Jessica Joann Criss on April 26, 2014 in Lakeland fl. And was a lifelong resident of Polk County fl. Braxton loved music, which was most noticeable when his mother would to sing to him. Braxton also loved lights, motorcycles and Mickey mouse. He loved high fives with his sister Calisa and belly laughs with his brothers Matteo and David. Braxton’s eldest brother Davon devoted his life to helping care for him. Braxton truly viewed him as his hero and protector , spending countless hours in tickles, cuddles, and mini dance parties … but just as fiercely his anchor in difficult times. Never wavering or leaving his side. Braxton was a light to his community. This could be seen each year as they would come together to hold a parade of all of his favorite things.
Braxton is preceded in death by his Maternal grandparents David and Joanne Criss, and his Aunt Kelly Criss.
He is survived by his mother Jessica Criss, his loving and devoted siblings Calisa Criss, Davon Criss, Matteo Criss, and David Criss. His Nana (Maternal grandmother) Denise Henderson (Keith) and Great Grandmother Doris Ison. Uncles David Criss, Shane Criss, Kyle Criss, and Aunt Leslie Mcleod. As well as their loving spouses and many cousins.
Pall bearers :
Davon Criss – Brother
Matteo Criss – Brother
David Criss – Brother
David Criss – Uncle
Kyle Criss – Uncle
Kyle Blackwell – Highly valued family friend
Flower bearers: Calisa Criss – Sister Mary Thigpen – Aunt Haily Lee – Cousin
Acknowledgements:
Kyle Blackwell and Fun Bike Center Motorsports Kim Scheffler and Cars Racing for a Dream, Inc
Acknowledgements cont.
Reynolds Road Ministries ( Pastor Keith Henderson )
Winter Haven Moose Lodge ( Mary Thigpen , Greg Gilmore , Shane Deal ) The Community at large for their unwavering support.
A Very Very Special Thank you to Bryanna Higbee for the profound dedication she has shown in our darkest hours . Your love and devotion will be as remembered as our beautiful Brave Braxton will be. We love you.
Braxton will have the ride of his dreams , he will be escorted in a Motorcycle carriage , This time it really is BRAXTONS RIDE. Everyone is invited to join in this special ride. Cars, Motorcycles, Jeeps, and any other available vehicles are welcome to join in this precession to honor our sweet boy .
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Polk County Fire Rescue were on scene of an accident on Shinn Blvd/17/92 and Cummings St. Multiple vehicles were involved and multiple people injured. A total of 4 ambulances were on scene and one person was airlifted for medical care.
According to initial reports the accident occurred at 12:43pm. The vehicles involved appear to be a dark blue or black pick-up and a reddish Toyota car.
The roadway was totally blocked, but we do not have an update yet if it’s cleared.
We will update this article as more information is provided.
Last Thursday, December 19th, there was quite a bit of activity on Bennett St. in Auburndale as members of the HIDTA (High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area) Task Force, Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Auburndale PD, PCSO Organized Crime Unit, and the Violent Gang Investigative Task Force (VGITF) served a search warrant at the home of Nichole Rizzo. Detectives began investigating her in July after receiving tips that she was coordinating heroin & fentanyl sales. Methamphetamines, digital scales with drug residue, and multiple meth pipes were found during the search.
Auburndale Code Compliance was called to inspect the residence, which they deemed uninhabitable. In addition to Nichole, nine other suspects (4 are Nichole’s adult children) were arrested – seven for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia; and Stacy Vondrasek and Deanna Olin were arrested for resisting. Jacob Rizzo was also charged with tampering with evidence (a big no-no).
“We appreciate the tips we get from the citizens in our community to help us shut down drug houses and illegal drug activity. If you see something, say something. Through Heartland Crime Stoppers you will remain completely anonymous – visit www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com or download the free mobile app. As for these drug users and drug dealers – they’ll be spending Christmas in Gradytown.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
The City of Winter Haven invites the community to celebrate the start of an exciting new chapter with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center (WHRCC). The event will take place on Friday, January 3, 2025, at 9:30 A.M. at 801 M.L.K. Blvd NE, with parking available via 8th Street NE.
This $21 million redevelopment represents a significant investment in the community, delivering a state-of-the-art, multi-use facility designed to enrich the lives of Winter Haven residents for generations to come. Planned amenities include a double gymnasium, fitness center, library/technology area, swimming pool with zero-depth entry, splash pad, and much more. The 37,616-square-foot facility will provide modern, accessible spaces to meet the evolving needs of residents of all ages.
Community-Driven Vision
The project’s design reflects extensive community input gathered through surveys, focus groups, public meetings, and a committee of community members. This inclusive approach ensures that the new facility will honor the history of the Florence Villa neighborhood while creating new and enhanced opportunities for recreation, education, and connection.
A Space for All
From expanded parking and ADA-compliant access to picnic areas, playgrounds, library, and enhanced recreation facilities, the WHRCC will be a welcoming hub for the entire community. With this redevelopment, Winter Haven continues its commitment to providing exceptional spaces that inspire health, wellness, and togetherness.
Christmas is almost here. Is anyone else excited? But a more important question to ask would be: What is the reason for the season?
We pose this question in our latest episode of the Chattin on the Ridge podcast. This special Christmas Eve episode features audio dramatizations of holiday stories, both past and present.
Give the new episode a listen. And feel free to ponder the answer to our question as we present to you all these stories through our dramatic readings:
***
“A Visit from St. Nicholas”
by Clement Clarke Moore
‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads;
And mamma in her ’kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap,
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window, I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.
Read full text here: https://poets.org/poem/visit-st-nicholas
***
“Christmas? Hot? Or Not?”
from “The Light Prince: Christmas Conundrum” by J.C. Alexandre
Amber arrived at the radio station with her father and Tyler. They entered a lobby with vinyl records hanging on the walls and soft rock music playing over the sound system. Amber’s father sat on one of the couches, while the two teens approached the front desk. The secretary directed them to a hallway. Her father waved as they left.
“Good luck with the interview,” he told them. “I’ll be out here, listening and chilling.”
Strolling through the hallway, Amber and Tyler approached a large glass window. Over it hung an unlit sign that read “On the Air.”
Behind the window was a dark room with an oval-shaped table and several microphones hanging over it. Around the table sat Hannah, dressed in her usual all-black attire, T-Man, wearing a red long-sleeved sweater with a blue baseball cap backwards; and Katie, wearing a faux fur coat and her nose in a fashion magazine.
Next to them sat a much older, college-aged man. He had a greasy complexion with long unruly black hair and an equally shaggy goatee. He wore a pair of thick-rimmed glasses, a large pair of headphones, and an extra-large black shirt that barely contained his plump paunch.
The four of them were engaged in a very lively conversation, muted only by the pane of glass separating their room from the hallway. Amber gently tapped it with her knuckles, and Hannah waved for them to enter. Passing through the door, Amber and Tyler could hear the rock music playing from inside.
“Sup, dawgs!” T-Man saluted them. “Glad to see you.”
“Like, totally,” Katie said. “The more, the merrier, or some junk.”
Hannah gestured to the bearded man in the headphones. “Tyler, Amber, this is Tiny.”
Tiny stood and threw his headphones back.
“Yes-siree!” he greeted them with a squealy voice like a needle being pulled across a spinning record. “Tiny’s the name, and talking smack is my game.”
He extended a pudgy hand. Amber and Tyler took turns shaking it. Amber recoiled, smelling that he reeked like a rancid skunk. He gestured for them to sit down. Amber picked an empty chair, Tyler sat next to her, and they both rolled their seats a few inches away from Tiny.
T-Man gestured to the disk jockey as he lowered himself into his seat. “Tiny here’s our host with the most. He’ll be moderating our most righteous roundtable.”
“Yeah!” Tiny added. “And to make sure everything is legit, what with me being an adult and the rest of y’all being in high school, I have my manager here supervising us. Say hi, Kyle!”
In a corner sat an equally portly middle-aged man. Aside from his mutton chops, the rest of his face was obscured by the music magazine he was currently reading. He replied with a thumbs up, but otherwise said nothing else.
“You two came just in time,” Tiny said. “We’re about to get started with this discussion once this last song stops playing. So put your headphones on.”
Everyone put on their headphones and adjusted their microphones. When the music faded, the sign outside (its reflection shining in the glass) lit up with bright red letters: “On the Air.” Tiny pulled his microphone close to his acne-ridden face.
“Alrighty, ladies and germs,” he announced. “Hope you all got pumped up with some jammin tunes, cause we’re about to throw down with another heated session of—”
He pressed a button on his control console, and a pre-recorded voice announced over the speakers, in a reverberating echo:
“Hot? Or not?”
Read full story in paperback and e-book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DMQP6ZLJ
***
“The Nativity Story”
from Luke 2 (KJV)
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
Read full text here: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202&version=KJV
###
Listen to all of these stories dramatized on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast, available on Acast: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/minisode-06-the-reason-for-the-season-holiday-stories-and-so
