Free Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show in Winter Haven – March 15, 2025
Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 15, 2025, and head to Winter Haven for a thrilling, FREE Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show! The event will take place at Lake Silver, located at 275 South Lake Silver Drive in Winter Haven, and promises fun for the whole family.
The preshow kicks off at 4:30 p.m., giving you a chance to settle in and get ready for the main event, which starts at 5:00 p.m. With talented skiers and an exciting atmosphere, it’s sure to be a memorable afternoon.
Concessions will be available, so you can grab a snack while enjoying the action. Be sure to bring your family, friends, and a blanket or chair to make the most of the experience.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic event – come out, relax, and enjoy the show!
At 3:22 p.m. on March 14, 2025 Polk County Fire Rescue responded to a medical emergency on Avenue I NW in Winter Haven.
Nathaniel Gale, Polk County Fire Rescue PIO confirmed they transported one patient as a trauma alert via ground. He also confirmed the patient was a tree worker who was electrocuted.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office assisted on the call. According to a PCSO PIO it appears the tree worker was shocked when a branch touched the powerline.
The man then reportedly fell out of the tree. He was responsive.
There has been no official info released whether it was a private person or a company.
*Editors Note: I’ve personally known both Dedric Brinson and Freddie Brinson for a long time. Prior to them, even realizing it I used to referee their youth football games. I’ve known Freddie more than Dedric, but I found both these young men to never be aggressive or belligerent (Dedric, lately has a podcast where he does get very emotional, but he is producing content). However, some serious allegations have been levied against both of them. I cannot condone any illegal behavior, which may or may not have occurred. The starting issue was an issue involving Freddie’s son we believe and a school guardian. As a father of three children I can get very emotional in defending them. I hate that this has occurred for these two young men and will be in prayer for this to be resolved in the best possible manner. – Carl Fish
Winter Haven, FL – A local father, Frederick Brinson, was arrested following a verbal altercation at Garden Grove Elementary School that escalated into alleged online harassment and a potential threat against the school.
The incident occurred during a school event when Brinson allegedly engaged in a heated argument with school guardian Laporchia Hodge. District Supervising Guardian Aaron Wilson intervened after noticing Brinson aggressively recording Hodge with his phone. Concerned about the escalating situation, Wilson radioed law enforcement, and both guardians retreated to the front office to wait for police. Brinson was eventually escorted off campus.
Brinson later posted the confrontation on his Facebook account, where he could be seen reportedly cursing at and directing racial slurs toward Guardian Hodge. In the video, he explicitly stated that he would not stop harassing her and made a reference to going “full John Q” on the school—a reference to a movie in which a desperate father takes a hospital hostage to get medical care for his son. This statement reportedly created fear for Hodge and school staff, as Brinson’s anger and aggression suggested he might pose a real threat.
Following this, Brinson allegedly contacted Wilson’s son via Facebook and persuaded him to have a phone conversation. Unbeknownst to Wilson’s son, the conversation was secretly recorded by Brinson’s brother and later broadcast on Facebook Live. This unauthorized recording and public posting violated privacy laws.
After investigating the incident, authorities determined Brinson had allegedly committed multiple offenses, including:
• Harassment (FSS. 784.048(3)) – By repeatedly verbally harassing Guardian Hodge and causing her emotional distress.
• Making a Credible Threat (FSS. 836.10) – By referencing the “John Q” scenario, which raised concerns for the safety of the school and its staff.
• Cyber Harassment (FSS. 934.215) – By using electronic means to further criminal activity.
• Disrupting a School Function (FSS. 877.13) – By preventing school staff from performing their duties.
• Disorderly Conduct (FSS. 877.03) – By using profane language and name-calling in the presence of staff, parents, and students.
• Unlawful Interception and Distribution of Communication (FSS. 934.03 (1)(D)) – By facilitating the unauthorized recording and dissemination of a private conversation.
Brinson was arrested and transported to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Booking Facility. During an interview, he admitted to his actions but claimed he did not know they were illegal. He also insisted that his statements were taken out of context and did not mean them as they were perceived.
Law enforcement continues to stress the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment in schools and online, warning that threats and harassment—whether in person or through social media—carry serious legal consequences.
Editors Note: The initial information on what precipitated this incident is not entirely known at this time. We will update as more information is released.
UPDATE: I-4 Ramp closures at SR 559 (Exit 44) were postponed until tonight, Tuesday, March 18, and Wednesday night, March 19. All other information remains the same.
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Original Post:
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is scheduled to conduct paving projects at the I-4 ramps intersecting with SR 559. These closures will affect both eastbound and westbound traffic on March 17 and March 18, 2025, during the overnight hours.
On Monday, March 17, 2025, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., the eastbound on-ramp and westbound off-ramp at I-4 and SR 559 will be closed, with all ramp traffic detoured. Eastbound SR 559 traffic wishing to enter I-4 will detour westbound to SR 33 (Exit #38), exit, and re-enter I-4 eastbound. Westbound SR 559 traffic will continue on I-4 to SR 33 (Exit #38), exit, and re-enter the interstate headed east, using the SR 559 exit.
On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., the westbound on-ramp and eastbound off-ramps will be closed, with traffic detours in place. Westbound SR 559 traffic will detour via C. Fred Jones Boulevard, Berkley Road, Pace Road, and University Boulevard to enter I-4 westbound. Eastbound SR 559 traffic will detour at SR 33 (Exit #38), turn left under the interstate, and follow SR 33 to SR 559.
*Editors Note: I’ve personally known both Dedric Brinson and Freddie Brinson for a long time. Prior to them, even realizing it I used to referee their youth football games. I would say I’ve known Freddie more than Dedric, but I found both these young men to never be aggressive or belligerent (Dedric, lately has a podcast where he does get very emotional, but he is producing content). However, some serious allegations have been levied against both of them. I cannot condone any illegal behavior, which may or may not have occurred. The starting issue was an issue involving Freddie’s son we believe and a school guardian. As a father of three children I can get very emotional in defending them. I hate that this has occurred for these two young men and will be in prayer for this to be resolved in the best possible manner. – Carl
Winter Haven, FL – A social media influencer, Dedric Brinson, was arrested on March 13, 2025, following a series of alleged disruptive incidents at Garden Grove Elementary School that culminated in a standoff with law enforcement at his residence.
The situation reportedly began earlier in the day when Dedric Brinson’s brother, Frederick Brinson, was involved in a verbal altercation with a school guardian during a school event. The District Supervising Guardian, Aaron Wilson, intervened to de-escalate the situation and called law enforcement, who escorted Frederick Brinson off campus.
Approximately 30 minutes later, Dedric Brinson arrived at the school’s front office and requested access to the school’s WiFi. When informed that it was for students and staff only, Brinson allegedly refused to leave the premises despite multiple requests from school staff and Guardian Wilson. Witnesses reported that Brinson’s behavior became increasingly erratic, causing concern among school employees. Wilson repeatedly instructed him to leave, but Brinson refused, stating that he was waiting for law enforcement.
Wilson continued to direct Brinson off campus, eventually walking him to his vehicle, where he left just before officers arrived.
Later that day, Brinson engaged in a Facebook Live session in which he allegedly played a recorded phone conversation with Wilson’s son, who was unaware he was being recorded. The conversation was broadcast without consent, violating Florida law regarding unauthorized recording and distribution of private communications.
Law enforcement responded to Brinson’s residence while he was live-streaming. When deputies ordered him to exit, Brinson instead slammed the door and continued his broadcast. Officers informed him through a window that he was under arrest, but he refused to comply, acknowledging the potential additional charges but allegedly stating he did not care.
Following an investigation, authorities determined that Brinson committed multiple violations, including:
• Trespassing on School Grounds After Warning (FSS 810.097(2)) – By remaining on school property without legitimate business after being directed to leave.
• Illegal Interception and Distribution of Communication (FSS 934.03 (1)(D)) – By recording and broadcasting a private phone call without consent.
• Resisting an Officer Without Violence (FSS 843.02) – By refusing to comply with law enforcement’s orders to surrender.
Brinson was taken into custody and now faces multiple charges, including a third-degree felony for the unauthorized recording. His actions, both at the school and online, have drawn significant attention, raising concerns over privacy violations and the misuse of social media platforms to escalate conflicts.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, emphasizing the importance of respecting school security measures and lawful orders from law enforcement.
We currently don’t have a current comment from Dedric, but we imagine he will post on his facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BxszRVmmL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Melissa Guevara DOB 07/20/1997 of Plant City, Florida has been arrested and charged with felony retail theft after allegedly stealing from two Target stores in Lakeland 11 different instances totaling 51 items.
It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by the Lakeland 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. Winter Haven Daily 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 your own conclusion.
“On 02/28/2025, I, Officer Biddick #303 was advised by Target’s Asset Prevention Associate REDACTED located at 3570 Harden Blvd in Lakeland, Florida, 33803 about a series of retail thefts to the business. The victim is identified as Target (two locations), which are located at 3570 Harden Blvd in Lakeland, Florida, 33803 (South), and the Target located at 4005 US Highway 98 N in Lakeland, 33809 (North).
I made contact with Target’s (South) Asset Protection Associate REDACTED, who witnessed through surveillance and floor observation revealed the following;
REDACTED advised the defendant in this case is a repeat offender, identified as Melissa Guevara (DOB: 07/20/1997). REDACTED had encountered the defendant, who had 20 prior incidents, which occurred between 06/14/2024 and 11/03/2024, and charges and pursued under Lakeland Police Department complaint affidavit case number 2024-00105808.
REDACTED stated the following 8 recent thefts occurred at the Target (South) located at 3570 Harden Blvd in Lakeland, Florida, 33803;
On 11/25/2024 at approximately 1719 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 3 items. The defendant rendered payment using a Target Credit card (card # REDACTED)
At approximately 1722 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 3 items with a total value of $39.97.
On 11/30/2024 at approximately 2018 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 1 item for retail value of $25.00 and “ticket switched” by using a falsified tag of $18.00 for a Stanley Cup retail value for 5.00 and a falsified tag of $7.50 for a shirt retail value $25.00. The defendant rendered payment using a Target Credit card (card # REDACTED)
At approximately 2020 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 3 items with a total value of $59.49.
On 12/18/2024 at approximately 1814 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant vas observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 2 items. The defendant rendered ayment using a Gift Card (#REDACTED) and Target Credit card (card #REDACTED)
At approximately 1817 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 2 items with a total value of $16.28.
On 12/26/2024 at approximately 1551 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “ticket switched” 4 items by using a falsified tag of $2.00 for a Stanley Cup retail value for $45.00, falsified tag of $12.00 for a Disney Dress retail value for $49.99, falsified tag of 10.00 for a Disney Dress retail value for $19.99, and falsified tag of $12.00 for a Disney Dress retail value for $19.99. The defendant rendered payment using a Gift Card (#REDACTED) and Target Credit card (card #REDACTED).
At approximately 1536 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 4 items with a total value of $98.97.
On 01/01/2025 at approximately 1952 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “ticket switching” 1 item by using a falsified tag of $4.99 for a Stanley Cup retail value for $35.00 and “skip scanning” failing to scan 5 items. totaling $37.99. The defendant rendered payment using an EBT card (REDACTED).
At approximately 1955 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 6 items with a total value of $87.00.
On 01/03/2025 at approximately 1427 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 11 items, total retail value of $77.98, and “ticket switched” by using a falsified tag of $7.00 for a girl’s clothing item retail value of $20.00. The defendant rendered payment using a Target Credit card (card #REDACTED)
At approximately 1432 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 12 items with a total value of $90.98.
On 01/17/2025 at approximately 2124 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 9 items. At approximately 2129 hours, the defendant passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 9 items with a total value of $140.51.
On 01/24/2025 at approximately 1909 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 4 items. The defendant rendered payment using an EBT card (REDACTED) and Target Credit card (card #REDACTED).
At approximately 1912 hours, the defendant then passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 4 items with a total value of $52.96.
On 02/20/2025 at approximately 1513 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 4 items. At approximately 1520 hours, the defendant passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 4 items with a total value of $48.98.
On this date, Asset Protection Associate REDACTED, approached the defendant, who refused to come into the Asset Protection Office and stated she could not be detained. REDACTED stated the defendant told her children (female and male, between 5-10 years old) to run after being advised law enforcement would be contacted. The defendant and children left the business in a Black Chevrolet bearing Florida tag GTRQ76, registered owner Melissa Guevara.
The following 2 recent thefts occurred at the Target (North) located at 4005 US Highway 98 N in Lakeland, 33809.
I made contact with Target’s (North) Asset Protection REDACTED, who witnessed through surveillance and floor observation revealed the following;
On 11/05/2024 at approximately 1158 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “skip scanning” failing to scan 1 item. At approximately 1200 hours, the defendant passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 1 item with a total value of $7.00.
On 11/14/2024 at approximately 1056 hours, the defendant was observed through surveillance video at the self-checkout register. During the transaction, the defendant was observed “ticket switching” 1 item by using a falsified tag of $15.00 for a comforter set retail value of $99.00 and “skip scanning” failing to scan 2 items, total retail value of 24.98. At approximately 1100 hours, the defendant passes all points of sale without rendering proper payment for 3 items with a total value of $108.98. Asset Protection REDACTED stated the defendant left the business in a Black Chevrolet bearing Florida tag GTRQ76.
Based on the above facts coupled with the identification made by witness REDACTED and REDACTED, the defendant knowingly obtained the merchandise with the intent to permanently deprive the victim/merchant, of possession, use, benefit, and full retail value; as a result, and given the defendant committing 11 retail thefts (w/in 120 days 11/05/24-02/20/2025) with an aggregated total of 51 items of $751.12 stolen at 2 different physical locations; there is sufficient probable cause to charge the defendant (Melissa Guevara) with Felony Retail Theft (3 or more w/in 120 days 10 or more items stolen).
The defendant demonstrated a repeated course of conduct (11 incidents) with the intent to “defraud” by utilizing “ticket switching” and “skip scanning” schemes which were under pretenses and willful misrepresentations; therefore, there is sufficient probable cause to charge the defendant with Scheme to Defraud.”
Hiring! Join Our Team and Make a Difference in Winter Haven
Exciting opportunities await in Winter Haven! We’re looking for passionate individuals to join our team and help make a meaningful impact in our vibrant community. Whether you’re seeking a dynamic career or a chance to contribute to a growing city, Winter Haven offers diverse roles for people of all backgrounds and skill sets.
We are currently hiring for several positions across different departments. If you’re ready to take on a rewarding challenge and work in a supportive, team-driven environment, we encourage you to apply today. Click through the link below to see how your unique skills can contribute to the success of Winter Haven.
From customer service to administration and more, Winter Haven is looking for individuals who are passionate about helping our community thrive.
Don’t wait – your next career move is just a click away. Take the first step toward making a real difference in Winter Haven today!
City of Winter Haven, Fl – On Monday, March 17, water service will be interrupted from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for some Winter Haven customers. (See photo)
The Water Department will be moving and repairing a water main at the intersection of Old Lucerne Park Road and Lucerne Park Road as part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s expansion project.
Once the repair is complete, a boil water notice will be issued, and affected customers will be notified. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve our infrastructure.
If you have any questions, please contact our office at (863) 291-5853.
An exciting adventure at The Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve! Get ready to hop on a buggy and explore the diverse wildlife and plants that call this preserve home.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 9am to 12 noon.
The Biodiversity Bingo game will add a fun twist to your nature exploration as you search for different species along the way. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn about the importance of biodiversity and conservation efforts while having a blast in the great outdoors!
All buggy guests must be able to climb steep steps to board the buggy. There will be optional stops along the tour for guests to get out and explore.
The Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve is located at 674 Pfundstein Rd., Babson Park.
Limited space is available for this free opportunity. Secure your spot in advance at:
If you were to ask ChatGPT to write a script for a new Captain America movie, and you asked it to have the film star Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America, as well as to incorporate Isaiah Bradley, the Celestial, the Red Hulk, and Sabra (without ever mentioning she’s Sabra because…reasons!), you would most likely have a script resembling that of Captain America: Brave New World.
The new movie is that big of a mess–and considering the film received endless reshoots, a shuffling around of release dates, and a scathing article in Vulture detailing its chaotic production (where one of the crew members literally stated, “I think everyone on the crew knew this is probably not going to be a good film”), expecting anything less would have been wishful thinking.
Captain America: Brave New World follows Sam Wilson (played by Anthony Mackie) assuming his role as the new Captain America. As a government agent, he now works under the new president Thaddeus Ross, who has proven controversial considering his history.
However, following an assassination attempt by Isaiah Bradley (a former soldier who had been experimented on to create the original super serum for Captain America), Sam is forced to investigate and uncover the real culprit. Will he find out who’s really responsible? And will the Red Hulk factor into it? (Considering he was featured in the trailers, that answer’s obvious.)
I’m not even going to bother with a rhetorical question asking whether or not this movie will be hypothetically good. Because it isn’t! This may not be the worst Marvel movie ever (because Iron Man 2 and The Incredible Hulk win that dishonor with a tie), but it is hands down the worst Captain America movie.
I’m not kidding when I say this movie feels like it was written by AI. It looks like a Marvel movie. It even feels like a Marvel movie. But something about the story feels hollow, almost as if it was written by a computer borrowing heavily from previous Marvel movies and shows. And watching it certainly leaves you feeling hollow.
And is it a spoiler to mention that the entire “mystery” involves the Red Hulk? Especially since Marvel already spoiled that “twist” in their trailers? Because the whole time, I was sitting in my seat waiting for the moment the Red Hulk finally appeared (because I knew he was going to be in the movie), and then when he did appear, the result felt underwhelming, leaving one to ask, “Wait, that’s it?”
Anthony Mackie does an excellent job reprising his role as Sam, who is now assuming his role acting as the new Captain America. And Harrison Ford as Thaddeus Ross…well, Harrison Ford is great in everything he appears in. Because he’s Harrison Ford.
However, the rest of the cast feels undercooked. This movie introduces Shira Haas as Sabra, an Israeli superhero who’s never mentioned in the film to be an Israeli superhero because…current events! The result is that her character doesn’t leave much of a lasting impression.
Oh, and there’s also Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres, who assumes the role of the new Falcon. He exists. Seriously, I had forgotten he was even a character in this movie, he was that forgettable. In fact, he’s so irrelevant to the overall plot that he’s written out halfway through following a serious injury in the film.
But perhaps the worst aspect of the film is how “apolitical” it feels, especially considering it’s a Captain America movie. Captain America, as a hero, embodies the heroic ideals of the American spirit. As such, his movies usually have something to say about America.
In contrast, this movie has nothing to say at all. The movie almost has something to say with the president being a literal monster, but considering that whole plot point feels almost incidental, rendering the metaphor toothless.
I recently stumbled across a thread by someone on BlueSky who put it best:
“[The movie] is such a rejection of who Cap should be as an inspirational character, someone who always took a stand, always tried to do what was right, no matter the thumps or how unpopular it may have been…
A Cap story HAS to stand for something, HAS to have meaning, or it, it’s intrinsic to the character as a greater symbol. Otherwise, you run the risk of becoming the meaning, in this case, a weak, mealy-mouthed sequel.”
With that said, as underwhelming as this whole movie felt, I’m not too enthused about The Thunderbolts, and I’m crossing my fingers that Fantastic Four proves to be the better film.
