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Lakeland Woman Dies After Crashing Her Motorcycle

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Woman Dies After Crashing Her Motorcycle

A Lakeland woman who was involved in a motorcycle crash on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, passed away in the hospital the following day.

 

65-year old Marie Ellen Porter was removed from life-support Thursday afternoon, and subsequently passed away.

 

Ms. Porter was the only person involved in the motorcycle crash that occurred at around 11:45 am, on US 98, north of Socrum Loop Road West in Lakeland.

 

The crash was investigated by the Traffic Homicide Unit from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

 

According to the preliminary investigation, Ms. Porter was driving a black 2016 Indian Scout motorcycle south on US 98.

 

That area of the roadway is currently in a construction zone, and there was loose dirt on the freshly paved southbound lane. The dirt likely caused the motorcycle to lose traction, and Ms. Porter lost control of the bike. 

 

As the motorcycle tipped, Ms. Porter’s head appears to have struck a road sign. She was not wearing a helmet.

🎉 Exciting Events Happening This Weekend in Lake Wales, FL! 🌴

Staff Reporter
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🎉 Exciting Events Happening This Weekend in Lake Wales, FL! 🌴

Hey there, Lake Wales locals! The first weekend of April is bringing some fantastic fun right to our doorstep. From a morning 5k to a lively karaoke night, there’s plenty to enjoy in Lake Wales from April 4–6, 2025. Grab your friends and family, and let’s make some weekend plans! 🎶✨

Saturday, April 5, 2025

🏃 Carillon Classic 5k presented by AdventHealth

  • When: 7:00 AM
  • Where: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: Kick off your Saturday with a scenic 5k run! With 65 interested and 15 confirmed runners, it’s a great way to get moving in Lake Wales. Lace up and join the fun!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Karaoke Night!

  • When: 6:00 PM
  • Where: 229 E Stuart Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: Time to shine on the mic! This karaoke night has 7 interested and 1 confirmed so far—bring your best tunes and make it a memorable evening.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🐴 Westgate River Ranch Saturday Night Rodeo

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  • When: 7:30 PM
  • Where: 3200 River Ranch Boulevard, River Ranch, FL 33867 (just 20 miles east of Lake Wales)
  • What’s Happening: Saddle up for a rootin’-tootin’ good time! Amanda N Hollis and Leslie are interested in this nearby rodeo, featuring bull riding, trick riding, and more. A short drive from Lake Wales, it’s perfect for a fun night out!
  • Event Link: Event Link

What a great way to spend the weekend in and around Lake Wales! Whether you’re running in the morning, singing your heart out, or cheering at the rodeo, there’s something for everyone. Which event are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll see you around town—or at the rodeo—enjoying the fun! 🌟🎉

🎉 Exciting Events Happening This Weekend in Central Florida! 🌴

Staff Reporter
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🎉 Exciting Events Happening This Weekend in Central Florida! 🌴

Hey there, event lovers! The first weekend of April is shaping up to be a blast in Central Florida, with everything from blueberry picking to live music, rodeos, and even a Thai festival. Whether you’re in Winter Haven, Lake Wales, Auburndale, or nearby, there’s something for everyone to enjoy from April 4–6, 2025. Let’s dive into the fun—grab your calendar and get ready to make some plans! 🎶✨

Friday, April 4, 2025

🍇 Polkdale Blueberry Farm U-Pick

  • When: 11:00 AM
  • Where: Polkdale Blueberry Farm, North Auburndale 2 miles from I-4.
  • What’s Happening: Kick off your weekend with some fresh air and blueberry picking! Perfect for a family outing or a sweet date.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🍹 Winter Haven Delights: Food, Drink, and Sunset Cruise

  • When: 3:00 PM (two identical events)
  • Where: 220 Ave A SW, Winter Haven, FL 33881
  • What’s Happening: Treat yourself to tasty eats, refreshing drinks, and a stunning sunset cruise. One listing has 1 interested and 1 going, while the other’s got 3 interested and 1 confirmed. Double the fun, double the vibes!
  • Event Link: Event 1 | Event 2

🎉 First Friday Winter Haven

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Downtown Winter Haven Historic District
  • What’s Happening: A community favorite! With 240 interested and 19 confirmed, this event promises a lively evening of fun downtown. Don’t miss out!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Catch the Wave with The Beach Buoys!

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: Ramon Theater
  • What’s Happening: Get ready to groove with The Beach Buoys—53 people are interested, and 8 are set to attend this awesome live show.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Daniel Pepin Live at The Union Taproom

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: Union Taproom
  • What’s Happening: Enjoy an intimate live music night with Daniel Pepin. It’s got 1 interested and 1 going so far—be one of the first to RSVP!
  • Event Link: Event Link

💃 First Friday: 80’s Dance Party

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Break out your neon and dance the night away! Shelly’s already interested—join her for some retro fun.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 TWIZTED ROCKS FOR AUTISM SHOW

  • When: 8:30 PM
  • Where: Tanners Lakeside
  • What’s Happening: Rock out for a great cause! Joey’s confirmed to go, and this event supports autism awareness with some serious tunes.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Rockin’ On The Chain at Tanners Lakeside

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  • When: April 4–6 (starts Friday)
  • Where: 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: A full weekend of music and good vibes! Melanie, Joey, and 2 friends are already in—don’t miss this multi-day party.
  • Event Link: Event Link

Saturday, April 5, 2025

🏃 Carillon Classic 5k presented by AdventHealth

#image_title
  • When: 7:00 AM
  • Where: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: Start your Saturday with a run! This 5k has 65 interested and 15 confirmed runners—lace up and join the crew.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🔫 NORTH RIDGE FCA CLAY SHOOT

  • When: 7:00 AM
  • Where: Tenoroc Shooting Range
  • What’s Happening: Test your aim at this clay shooting event. With 10 interested and 3 going, it’s a great way to kick off the day.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🛍️ Freedom Station Park Market

  • When: 9:00 AM
  • Where: 118 E Wall St, Frostproof, FL
  • What’s Happening: Shop local goodies at this market—13 are interested, and 4 are confirmed to attend.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🐰 Auburndale’s Easter Egg Hunt Market

  • When: 9:00 AM
  • Where: 1 Bobby Green Blvd, Auburndale, FL 33823
  • What’s Happening: A market with an Easter egg hunt twist! Sherry’s interested—bring the kids for some holiday fun.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Saturday LIVE Entertainment with Sean O’Connell

  • When: 10:00 AM
  • Where: 118 E Wall St, Frostproof, FL
  • What’s Happening: Enjoy live tunes with Sean O’Connell—3 interested and 1 going so far.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🍖 Spring Fling & BBQ

  • When: 10:00 AM
  • Where: 180 S Central Ave, Bartow, FL 33830
  • What’s Happening: A huge BBQ bash with 2.3K interested and 127 confirmed! This one’s a can’t-miss.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🥚 Annual Egg-Venture Hunt

  • When: 10:30 AM
  • Where: 1st Saturday Downtown Auburndale Market
  • What’s Happening: Another egg hunt for the kiddos—Sherry’s interested in this festive outing.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Korey Ketchum Live at The Apple Lounge & Grill

  • When: 12:00 PM
  • Where: 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Midday music vibes with Korey Ketchum—perfect for a laid-back lunch.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎪 Free Circus Show

  • When: 1:00 PM
  • Where: 1052 U.S. 92, Auburndale, FL 33823
  • What’s Happening: Who doesn’t love a free circus? 6 are interested, and 1’s confirmed—bring the family!
  • Event Link: Event Link

💙 AFAA Light It Up Blue 2025

  • When: 2:00 PM
  • Where: Camp Mack Lodge, Marina & RV Resort
  • What’s Happening: Shine a light for autism awareness—Regina’s interested in this meaningful event.
  • Event Link: Event Link

📚 Book Signing at Front Page Brewing Co.

  • When: 4:00 PM
  • Where: Front Page Brewing Co.
  • What’s Happening: Meet an author and sip some brews—17 interested and 4 going.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🍺 Pop-Up at Grove Roots Brewing Co.

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Grove Roots Brewing Co.
  • What’s Happening: A pop-up event with 7 interested and 1 confirmed—perfect for beer lovers.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Ridge Country @ Rockin’ on the Chain

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Tanners Lakeside
  • What’s Happening: More music from the weekend-long fest—Joey and John are confirmed!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Karaoke Night!

  • When: 6:00 PM
  • Where: 229 E Stuart Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: Sing your heart out—7 interested and 1 going so far.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🐴 Westgate River Ranch Saturday Night Rodeo

  • When: 7:30 PM
  • Where: 3200 River Ranch Boulevard, River Ranch, FL 33867
  • What’s Happening: Saddle up for a rodeo night—Amanda N Hollis and Leslie are interested.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 The Bay is Getting TWIZTED

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: Carribbean Bay Bar
  • What’s Happening: A rocking night with 24 interested and 4 confirmed—get TWIZTED!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🌸 Bloom at BSP

  • When: April 5–6 (starts Saturday)
  • Where: 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33815
  • What’s Happening: A weekend-long celebration—Susan and Leslie are interested.
  • Event Link: Event Link

Sunday, April 6, 2025

🇹🇭 Songkran Thai Festival + Thai Food Market @ Grove Roots Brewing

  • When: 12:00 AM (midnight start)
  • Where: Grove Roots Brewing Co.
  • What’s Happening: Celebrate Thai culture with food and festivities—285 interested and 21 going!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎪 Free Circus Show

  • When: 12:00 PM
  • Where: 1052 U.S. 92, Auburndale, FL 33823
  • What’s Happening: Another free circus show—1 interested and 1 confirmed so far.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Quittin’ Time Full Band at Winter Haven Moose

  • When: 1:30 PM
  • Where: Winter Haven Moose Lodge 1023 & Chapter 1152
  • What’s Happening: Live music for members and guests—5 interested and 2 going.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🌮 Moms’ Night Out

  • When: 6:00 PM
  • Where: SanDiegos Mexican-Grill
  • What’s Happening: Moms, this one’s for you! 20 are interested, and 4 are confirmed for a fun night out.
  • Event Link: Event Link

Bonus: Mark Your Calendar!

🎤 Kai7en~Unplugged Debut at Union Taproom

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  • When: Friday, April 18, 2025, 7:00 PM
  • Where: Union Taproom
  • What’s Happening: A debut performance to look forward to—5 interested and 2 going so far.
  • Event Link: Event Link

What a weekend lineup! Whether you’re into music, food, outdoor fun, or family-friendly activities, Central Florida’s got you covered. Which event are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll see you out there enjoying the fun! 🌟🎉

In Loving Memory of Mindy Joyce Dougherty, 66, of Lake Wales

Staff Reporter
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In Loving Memory of Mindy Joyce Dougherty, 66, of Lake Wales

Mindy Dougherty of Lake Wales passed away Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Good Shepherd Hospice in Auburndale.

Mindy was born May 4, 1958, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Alvin Gross and Myra Ludwig. Mindy was a retired CNA, and a member of Winter Haven Worship Center. She loved and supported the Special Olympics and played for the team herself. Mindy loved Clearwater Beach and deep-sea fishing, as well as her Yuengling and Peach Schnapps. 

Mindy is preceded in death by her parents, Alvin and Myra Gross; brother, Steven Gross; and her husband. She is survived by her daughter, Julie A McGrath and close friend Alex Aguilar of Lake Wales; son, Mark R. Dougherty of Lake Wales; and one grandchild, Logan A. Joseph.

No services have been scheduled at this time.  

Hit & Run in Auburndale Involving 6-Year-Old Ends in Arrest

Staff Reporter
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Hit & Run in Auburndale Involving 6-Year-Old Ends in Arrest

The following is a NEWS RELEASE by Auburndale Police Department:

On April 2, 2025, at approximately 6:19 PM, officers responded to a hit-and-run incident with injuries at the intersection of Reiter Drive and Robert Avenue in Auburndale. The collision involved a six-year-old juvenile who was struck by a silver Mazda SUV bearing Florida license plate CE25RH. Witnesses reported that the vehicle fled the scene but remained within the neighborhood. Emergency medical personnel treated the juvenile at the scene before airlifting them to Tampa General Hospital, where they were listed in stable condition.

Following an extensive search, officers located the suspect vehicle at 3032 Robert Avenue #B in Auburndale. Contact was made with Cheryl Ann Alexander (W/F, DOB: March 29, 1957), the registered owner of the vehicle. Initially, Alexander denied any knowledge of the incident. However, further investigation revealed a piece of the vehicle’s grill at the crash site that matched her SUV. Alexander later admitted that her daughter, Shannon Marie Hudson (W/F, DOB: May 6, 1990) had been driving the vehicle but claimed Hudson had left hours before the crash.

After additional inconsistencies in Alexander’s statements, Sgt. Lahr requested permission to search the residence. Alexander ultimately confessed that Hudson was hiding inside the home and admitted she had lied to protect her from getting arrested. Officers located Hudson concealed in a bathroom. She was identified as the driver through witness confirmation and subsequently arrested. Post-Miranda, Hudson confessed to fleeing the scene due to only possessing a learner’s permit. Cheryl Ann Alexander was also arrested for providing false information during an investigation.

Frostproof Accident Involving Truck; At Least One Patient Transported by Air

Staff Reporter
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Frostproof Accident Involving Truck; At Least One Patient Transported by Air
Photo credit: Lake Wales Daily

At 4:37 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025, a traffic collision was reported at or near the intersection of Hwy. 27 and Hwy. 98 W in Frostproof.

Photo credit: Lake Wales Daily

The accident involves a large box truck off of the side of the road in a ditch. No further details are yet available.

We have requested additional information from local agencies. Please avoid the area as first responders work at the scene.

Get Ready for the 11th Annual Judd Jog 5K April 26

Staff Reporter
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Get Ready for the 11th Annual Judd Jog 5K April 26


On your mark – get set – GO! This year’s 11th annual Judd Jog 5K is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025.

The cost to participate is $40.00, and all of the proceeds benefit the United Way of Central Florida. Families and children are welcome, and everyone will receive a medal. Winners in different categories will also be awarded.

Back by popular demand, the Sheriff’s Star Sprint for kids between the ages of 4 and 8 years old will also take place, with a $5.00 fee to participate.

Event day check-in and on-site registration begins at 7:00 a.m. at the PCSO Sheriff’s Operations Center, 1891 Jim Keene Blvd in Winter Haven. The race will start at 8:00 a.m. – and those who wish to walk are also welcome!

In Loving Memory of Louis Powell

Staff Reporter
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In Loving Memory of Louis Powell

Louis Powell

January 11th, 1937 – March 31st, 2025

Louis D. Powell, 88, of Winter Haven, FL, passed away on March 31, 2025, at Lake Regional Health. He was born on January 11, 1937, in Coffee Springs, AL.

Louis was a dedicated family man who worked tirelessly to provide for his loved ones. He worked 39 years at International Paper Company in Auburndale. He also had a small lawn business for several years. A longtime member of Cypress Cathedral in Winter Haven, he found joy in serving his community by volunteering at the church as security and providing maintenance for the bus ministry. Louis lived a simple life and was always ready to lend a helping hand to family and friends. In his free time, he enjoyed working in the yard, riding his bike, taking walks and visiting with neighbors along the way.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marynell Powell; his son, Keith Powell; two brothers, M.A. Powell and Johnny Powell; and his sister, Jewell Casey. Louis is survived by his three daughters, Cheryl Petko (Scott), Rhonda Floyd (Carlie), and Karen De Jesus (Daniel); brother, Marvin Powell Sr; nine grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Village Church of God on Coleman Road in Winter Haven. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 AM at the same location. Interment will take place at Auburndale Memorial Park immediately following the service.

Lakeland Man Arrested For Allegedly Laundering $800K in Illegal Gambling Organization Proceeds

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Man Arrested For Allegedly Laundering $800K in Illegal Gambling Organization Proceeds

Detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Lakeland man Tuesday, April 1, 2025 for money laundering after it was discovered that he tried to hide more than $800-thousand in proceeds from illegal gambling games that he organized.

39-year old James Patrick Kerr was charged with three counts of Fraud-Money Laundering in Excess of $100,000 (F1).

“One of our undercover detectives infiltrated Kerr’s illegal poker games that were being conducted in the Winter Haven area. As the saying goes, ‘follow the money,’ and that’s exactly what detectives did. They discovered that Kerr would make multiple transactions among various bank accounts, with the purpose of trying to hide his illicit earnings.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

The investigation revealed that Kerr’s fraudulent activities occurred over three years, in an attempt to conceal a total of $833,478 in illegal gambling money. 

·        2021: $408,878

·        2022: $289,600

·        2023: $135,000

Detectives located Kerr at his attorney’s office in Lakeland, but he refused to speak with detectives about the investigation.

Kerr was arrested and taken to the Sheriff’s Processing Center and booked-in his charges.

In Loving Memory of Ronald Cope of Winter Haven

Staff Reporter
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In Loving Memory of Ronald Cope of Winter Haven

Ronald Cope

June 12th, 1953 – March 29th, 2025

Ronald Cope, 71, of Winter Haven, Florida passed away on March 29, 2025. Born in Lakeland, Florida, he has been a lifelong resident of Polk County.  

Ronald was a member of the card club at Spring Haven Retirement Community. He enjoyed doing puzzles, he was a deacon, choir director and treasurer at Grace Baptist church in Lake Wales. He enjoyed fishing, bowling and being an all-around goof ball making people laugh every chance he could get. Ronald’s biggest hobby was building computers, which he took much pride in. 

Ronald is preceded in death by his parents, William and Nolar Cope; his loving wife, Cynthia Cope; sister, Jeanette Sherington. He is survived by his daughters, Holly Kelsey (TC), Ashley Cope (Mo); sister, Diane Hoffman; honorary family members, Lela and Natalee Duncan; grand dogs, Odin, Ryder and Josie. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Service details: Visitation April 3, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Oak Ridge Funeral Care

Funeral service then interment to follow at 2:00 p.m.

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