Polk County Solid Waste Division is hosting a disposal event from 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Bartow Senior High School located at 1270 S Broadway Ave, Bartow, FL 33830, entrance will be from E. Georgia Street.
Acceptable materials include, but are not limited to:
Sherwood L. Stokes Preserve, managed by Polk County Parks & Recreation, is a hidden gem for bird lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This natural preserve protects rare species, vital water resources, and diverse habitats while offering the public a chance to enjoy Florida’s wild beauty.
Photo source Polk County Parks & Rec
Visitors can explore natural walkways winding through forests, marshes, scrub, and hammocks, making it an ideal spot for hiking and nature walks. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with the opportunity to observe more than 70 species, from songbirds to raptors, throughout the year. In addition to birds, wildlife sightings may include deer, turkey, and even the occasional feral hog.
Polk County Parks & Rec
Whether you’re an avid birder, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful escape in nature, Sherwood L. Stokes Preserve provides a tranquil setting to connect with the outdoors and appreciate Polk County’s rich natural heritage.
$1,000 cash prize and real-world exposure for winning creative
Tampa and Winter Haven, FL — October 1, 2025 — Brooks Law Group announced today the launch of its Billboard Design Contest, inviting graphic designers and creative enthusiasts to submit bold, high-impact concepts for a chance to win $1,000 and see their work featured on a real highway billboard.
“Great outdoor creative earns attention in seconds,” said Stephen K. Brooks, attorney and founding partner of Brooks Law Group. “This contest celebrates designers who can distill a powerful message into a single, memorable billboard—and we’re excited to showcase the winning concept in the real world.”
Key details
Prize & exposure: $1,000 to the winner, plus publication of the design on an actual billboard.
Who can enter: Open to graphic designers and creative enthusiasts.
Creative approach: Minimalist, high-contrast billboard design optimized for quick roadside readability and explicitly targeted to truck crash victims (clear message, empathetic tone, and visuals that speak to commercial trucking collisions).
A panel from Brooks Law Group will review entries and select the winner based on clarity, impact, and adherence to the specifications above.
Brooks Law Group is a Florida-based personal injury firm with a specialty focus on trucking and commercial vehicle accidents, including semi-trucks, box trucks, delivery vans, construction vehicles, and other commercial fleets. The firm is committed to advocacy, education, and community engagement, and brings deep experience investigating complex commercial vehicle crashes, coordinating with industry experts, and pursuing full accountability for victims. Through public initiatives like the Billboard Design Contest, Brooks Law Group supports creative talent while elevating safety awareness on Florida roads.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – A deadly crash occurred Tuesday evening on I-75, leaving one driver dead and others seriously injured, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The incident happened around 7:20 p.m. when a Nissan Rogue, driven by a 38-year-old Lakeland woman, was traveling northbound in the outside lane at a very slow speed for reasons still under investigation.
A Mitsubishi Mirage, driven by a 67-year-old man from St. Petersburg, struck the rear of the Rogue. The impact forced the Nissan onto the shoulder where it collided with a barrier wall. The Mirage then spun into the path of a tractor-trailer, driven by a 43-year-old Loganville, Georgia man, which collided with the vehicle.
Both the Nissan and Mitsubishi drivers suffered serious injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals. The St. Petersburg driver later died from his injuries. The tractor-trailer driver was not hurt.
“We can’t wait to have a night of fun, safe, trick-or-treating! This year’s event will take place on Monday, October 20, 2025, from 5pm until 8pm, along the north and east bank of Lake Mirror and at adjacent Fire Station 1. The event is open to everyone but is targeted to children ages 12 and under. Costumes are super encouraged!
Visitors will get to meet Lakeland firefighters and police officers, trick-or-treat at different fire apparatus and police vehicles, and learn about how to stay healthy and safe at different stops along Lake Mirror and adjacent Fire Station 1. There will be 15+ stops for children to collect candy, Halloween goodies, and safety giveaways.
Be sure to join LPD and LFD on October 20 for a fun night of learning how to have a safe trick-or-treating experience on Halloween night.
Note We have stocked up on lots of candy and goodies, but due to demand, please remember, goodies are first come first served, and while supplies last.”
DETROIT — Ford Motor Company kicked off the final quarter of 2025 on a high note, announcing an 8.2% year-over-year increase in U.S. vehicle sales for the third quarter. The automaker delivered 545,522 units from July through September, surpassing last year’s Q3 total of 504,039 and underscoring sustained consumer appetite for its iconic trucks, versatile SUVs, and growing electrified portfolio.
The results, released Wednesday morning, highlight Ford’s strategic pivot toward hybrid and electric options amid evolving market dynamics, including tariff pressures and shifting buyer preferences. Year-to-date, Ford’s U.S. sales stand at 1,658,908 vehicles, reflecting a solid 7.2% gain over the first nine months of 2024.
Trucks and SUVs Drive the Momentum
Ford’s bread-and-butter segments—trucks and SUVs—continued to anchor the quarter’s success. Truck sales, encompassing pickups and vans, rose 7.4% to 313,654 units, with the F-Series lineup posting 207,732 deliveries—a 4.7% uptick. That brings the F-Series’ year-to-date tally to an impressive 620,580 trucks, outpacing its closest rival by an estimated 170,000 units and solidifying its throne as America’s best-selling truck family.
Ford Super Duty
The compact Maverick pickup also shone, achieving a Q3 record with 34,848 sales (up 9.3%) and 120,904 units year-to-date (up 10.9%). Commercial vans like the Transit surged 32.3% in the quarter to 42,503 units, bolstering Ford’s dominant 43% share in Class 1-7 trucks and vans.
On the SUV front, sales climbed 9.7% to 222,601 vehicles. The redesigned Expedition large SUV delivered its strongest Q3 in two decades, with 21,844 units sold (a 47.4% leap). The Bronco family, including the Bronco Sport, totaled 68,681 sales (up 11.9%), while the Explorer—fresh off a mid-cycle refresh—jumped 33.3% to 55,000 units in Q3, pushing year-to-date figures to 160,929, the highest since 2018.
Ford Expedition
Car sales, though a smaller slice of the pie, edged up 2.5% to 9,267 units, entirely driven by the Mustang’s enduring appeal.
Electrified Vehicles Hit Record Highs
A standout story within the numbers is Ford’s electrified vehicle segment, which accounted for 15.7% of total sales and posted a 19.8% increase to 85,789 units in Q3. This includes 30,612 fully electric vehicles (up 30.2%) and 55,177 hybrids (up 14.7%). Year-to-date, electrified sales reached 242,298—up 16.5%—surpassing the combined totals of rivals General Motors and Stellantis.
The Mustang Mach-E led the EV charge with its best quarter ever at 20,177 units (up 50.7%), while the F-150 Lightning electric pickup moved 10,005 units (up 39.7%), retaining its crown as the top-selling electric truck in America.
“This quarter’s growth showcases our portfolio’s unmatched flexibility and breadth,” said Andrew Frick, president of Ford Blue and Model e. “We saw strong performance in gas, hybrid, and electrified powertrains, while at the same time growing our paid software solutions, all embedded in vehicles such as Expedition, Explorer and F-150.”
Ford also maintained its leadership in fleet and specialty markets, holding a 60.6% share of police vehicle sales (up 9.6 points year-over-year).
Broader Context and What’s Next
The Q3 gains come against a backdrop of economic headwinds, including proposed tariffs on imports and moderating consumer spending. Yet, Ford’s results outpaced the industry’s projected 6.2% Q3 growth, per Cox Automotive forecasts, signaling resilience in its core U.S. operations.
Looking ahead, Ford teased upcoming launches to sustain the momentum. The rugged Explorer Tremor, boasting a 400-horsepower EcoBoost V6 and enhanced off-road prowess, and the street-tuned F-150 Lobo—with its lowered suspension, 5.0-liter V8, and performance styling—are set to hit dealerships in Q4, broadening the brand’s appeal to adventure seekers and urban enthusiasts alike.
As the automotive landscape evolves toward electrification and sustainability, Ford’s balanced approach—blending high-volume trucks with innovative EVs—positions it well for a competitive 2026. Investors and analysts will watch closely for Q4 results, which could cap off a banner year for the Blue Oval.
For more automotive news and analysis, visit DailyRidge.com. This article is based on Ford’s official Q3 sales release and industry reports.
HUDSON, Fla. – A man on Florida’s Gulf Coast is facing animal cruelty charges after authorities say he killed, cooked, and ate two of his pet peacocks.
The 61-year-old Hudson resident, Craig Vogt was arrested last week on a third-degree felony count of aggravated animal cruelty, according to an affidavit from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.
Mug Shot Pasco Corrections
Investigators said the man admitted he killed the birds because a neighbor had been feeding them. In a letter to the neighbor, he allegedly warned that he would “continue to kill his pet peacocks if she kept feeding them ‘to prove a point,’” the affidavit stated. It did not clarify how many peacocks he owned.
According to deputies, the man “admitted to killing the bird by cutting the bird’s neck out of spite, then bleeding it out, and then later eating the bird after cooking it on a frying pan.”
While being transported to jail, he reportedly told deputies he planned to kill the rest of his peacocks after his release so that “no one could take them,” the sheriff’s office report said.
The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office has not yet commented on what will happen to the remaining birds.
Court records show no attorney listed for the man.
Lake Hamilton, FL – September 16, 2025 – The Culpepper Cardiac Foundation (CCF), led by Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke, continues its life-saving mission through its “Pay It Forward” program, equipping local businesses with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). In a heartfelt collaboration, Kimber’s Bar & Grill raised funds to donate an AED to PORT 27, a vibrant new venue at Lake Hamilton, ensuring the safety of its guests and continuing the chain of community support.
Last month, Kimber’s Bar & Grill, owned by Kimberley Mellenthin, hosted a fundraising event featuring several talented musicians from the community. Through weeks of dedicated efforts, including raffles and game nights, they raised enough to “Pay It Forward” by providing an AED to PORT 27. This initiative followed their own selection as a beneficiary by the Lake Wales Moose Lodge several months prior. “We were so excited to become part of this amazing charity,” Mellenthin shared. “We knew we wanted to donate to someone close to us for our first donation, so we chose our new neighbors right down the road at PORT 27. We are so blessed to have this opportunity and to be neighbors.”
PORT 27, which opened on June 5, 2025, is a family-friendly destination founded by Monica and Luis Sosa, who immigrated from Venezuela 13 years ago. The venue, a longtime dream of Luis, brings together stunning architecture, a brewery, diverse food options, a coffee shop, unique stores, and live entertainment, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Hamilton. “It’s a place where families and friends can create memories while enjoying delicious food, drinks, and music,” the Sosas said. The venue has been packed every weekend, with performances like that of The Got UR 6 Band, led by Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke’s husband, leaving a lasting impression. “It was one of our favorite places, with everyone so welcoming and a sunset that was just breathtaking,” Melanie noted. The Sosas are also expanding, with plans to add a restaurant to a lighthouse under construction at the venue.
The donation was made possible through the efforts of Amber Pearce, who works at Kimber’s Bar & Grill, and Debbe Owens, who works at PORT 27. Both women, longtime supporters of CCF, played pivotal roles in raising funds and coordinating the donation. “I met Amber and Debbe several years ago, and they’ve helped with raffle items and benefits for CCF,” Melanie shared. “Amber was a big part in helping raise the money, and Debbe connected me with Luis and Monica to pull this all together.” The Sosas expressed their gratitude: “Having an AED at our location has always been a priority, and receiving one feels like such a privilege and gift to our community. We are truly honored and deeply grateful to Kimber’s Bar & Grill.”
Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke and the CCF Team were praised for their inspiring work. “Melanie turned a tragic experience into something that helps others avoid going through the same,” Mellenthin said. “The ‘Pay it Forward’ idea is beautiful and shows how many of us businesses want to make sure our community is helping each other save lives.” The Sosas added, “Melanie and the CCF Team are an inspiring example of transforming an unfortunate loss into a powerful mission of saving lives. Their passion and dedication are truly admirable.”
The AED demonstration, led by Eric Shimcus, a paramedic with over 24 years of experience at Winter Haven Fire Department, was a highlight of the event. Volunteering his time, Eric provided a clear, hands-on demonstration of the AED, CPR, a choking device, and Narcan for overdose emergencies. “Eric’s demonstration was easy to follow, giving everyone the confidence to use the AED,” the Sosas said. “He went above and beyond, answering every question and helping us mount the equipment.” Mellenthin added, “Eric always does a great job, and we learn something new each time.”
This demonstration also included a new focus on fire safety, with Melanie introducing the importance of carrying a fire extinguisher in vehicles. This addition was in honor of Jolynn, a young girl loved and lost in a car fire in November, and her mother, Logan Deines, through the initiative “For The Love Of JoLynn.” “We want to continue our love for Jolynn and Logan by sharing the importance of saving lives in every way,” Melanie said.
Both businesses are committed to continuing the CCF’s mission. “We look forward to sponsoring the next beneficiary of ‘Pay it Forward’ and continuing the spirit of giving,” the Sosas said. Mellenthin expressed gratitude to the Lake Wales Moose Lodge for including Kimber’s Bar & Grill and to PORT 27 for accepting the donation. “We hope this inspires other organizations to prioritize safety and join the CCF Foundation,” the Sosas concluded. “You have made PORT 27 a safer space for every guest, and that is something we deeply value.”
For more information about the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation and its “Pay It Forward” program, visit Culpepperaed.com. Together, the community is proving that saving lives matters.
One Movie Later: War of the Worlds…Yeah, It’s Really That Bad!
by James Coulter
Since its publication in 1898, H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds has served as the template for alien invasion stories. The novel itself has received countless adaptations, the most infamous being a 1938 radio drama that fooled many listeners into believing it was a real alien invasion.
War of the Worlds has been adapted into film (including two notable movies in 1953 and 2005), video games, and even a rock opera. Now, in 2025, Amazon released its own film adaptation that boldly answers the question: “What if an alien invasion was observed through one person’s computer screen? And alsodoubled as a commercial for Amazon?”
Yes, that premise is as bad as it sounds. And the overwhelming negative reviews prove it. There’s no doubt the movie is one of the worst of the year. So, the question isn’t so much, “Is it bad?” but rather, “How bad is it?”
The film follows William Radford (played by Ice Cube), a DHS agent who spies on American citizens for the sake of national security. In fact, he’s so certain that mass surveillance is necessary that he even uses his job to spy on his own adult children. However, his belief in security over liberty is challenged when the Earth is invaded by aliens, and…well, if you’re familiar with the plot of War of the Worlds, you know how the story unfolds.
This version of War of the Worlds has been adapted into the screenlife subgenre, which tells stories through the perspective of a single computer screen. Screenlife was popularized with movies like Unfriended (which, ironically enough, was produced by the same person who produced this movie). And while movies like Searching and Missing show the subgenre’s potential, movies like this prove its overwhelmingly poor reputation.
Undoubtedly, the movie’s worst aspect is its cinematography and special effects. This movie was filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it shows. Most of the film involves characters talking with each other via video chat. The rest of the film consists of stock footage being passed off as “real” video. The footage of the alien spacecraft is the worst offender, as the CGI looks worse than a PS2 video game.
The only thing phonier than the special effects is the acting, especially with the main character. Ice Cube’s performance can be best described as Samuel L. Jackson if he were given a dozen Benadryl. Ice Cube is on record saying he shot his scenes for this movie in 15 Days isolated from the director and other actors. I believe him. Because his acting proves that to be true.
Not helping matters is how his role is essentially watching the events of the movie unfold from his computer screen from a single location and reacting with the most underwhelming reactions, usually by whispering “damn.” When you react to the military destroying an alien spaceship the same way you’d react to a touchdown during a football game, you know your acting is weak.
Oh, and could you tell this movie was created by Amazon for its Prime Video streaming service? Because the movie never forgets to remind you of that fact. The main character’s job is frequently derided as spying on people’s Amazon carts. One of the characters is literally an Amazon delivery person, and the climactic scene involves him delivering a jump drive with a computer virus to destroy the alien ships using an Amazon delivery drone. (Mankind’s salvation, brought to you by Amazon!)
No, actually, I take it back. The worst part of the movie is its angle on mass surveillance. War of the Worlds has often been adapted to comment on the current cultural anxiety. The original novel was a condemnation of British imperialism. The 1953 movie tapped into Cold War paranoia, while the 2005 movie tapped into post-9/11 trauma.
And this recent adaptation? A not-so-subtle commentary on mass government surveillance. The aliens literally invade Earth to steal the world’s data, and they’re able to do this because of the mass surveillance undertaken by the world’s governments, including the American government.
The movie’s message is as subtle as a brick: mass surveillance is bad. However, that message is severely undercut by the main character working in the surveillance state. While the character’s arc undoubtedly involves him learning the error of his ways, his actions in the movie carry some creepy implications.
Will Radford literally uses his job to spy on his own kids. He hacks into his pregnant daughter’s fridge, spies on her in a coffee shop, then chides her for having a muffin for breakfast.
He also hacks into his son’s computer, deletes a new video game, then chides his son for his chosen profession as a video game streamer. Then, later in the movie, he hacks into a Tesla vehicle and programs it to drive his daughter to safety.
Forget aliens invading Earth. A government agent being able to do all of that from his computer is a far scarier prospect, because—holy s***!—is that a dystopian nightmare that makes Orwell’s 1984 look like a utopia in comparison.
So, yeah! This movie is bad. It’s not even “so bad, it’s good” like The Room or Sharknado, as many other reviewers have compared it to. It’s just cheap, boring, and dull. This movie about a man watching a cheap alien movie from his computer screen is about as appealing as…well, a man watching a cheap alien movie from his computer screen.
SAVE THE DATE! October 18th from 4–6 PM – Bring the Entire Family to PCSO Second Annual Trick or Treat with Sheriff Judd! 🎃
Join PCSO for a fun, free, and safe Halloween event on October 18, 2025, from 4 to 6 PM at SUN ‘n FUN, 4175 Medulla Road, Lakeland, FL 33811! This family-friendly celebration hosted by Sheriff Grady Judd promises an evening packed with entertainment, music, dancing, candy, photos, and beloved characters.
Kids are encouraged to come in costume and enjoy an unforgettable evening of spooky fun and treats in a secure environment.
🎉 Special thanks to the incredible sponsors: SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Center for Excellence and the thrilling Monster Jam Grave Digger team!
This event is sure to be a hit with families across Polk County — don’t miss out!
