Polk County Parks and Recreation has teamed up with the Easter Bunny and friends to bring you Bunny Mail! Each Bunny Mail activity kit will include a letter from the Easter Bunny, up to 3 certificates with child’s name, an activity book, Easter themed crafts, stickers and confetti.
Registration is free but will be limited to 1,000 registrations. Parents may register ONE household but can add up to THREE children’s names. This program is intended for children up to the age of 12 years old.
Register online at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/m8f4vcj.
A 63-year old man died Monday morning, February 17, 2025, after being struck by a vehicle at 3305 Spirit Lake Road, just north of Thornhill Road, near Winter Haven.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Polk County Fire Rescue were dispatched to the scene at about 2:29am.
Upon arrival, first responders attempted life-saving measures, but the victim succumbed to his injuries.
The victim has been identified, but detectives are still working to notify next-of-kin.
The vehicle that struck the victim fled the scene, and at this time Traffic Homicide detectives do not have a description of the vehicle.
According to the preliminary investigation, the victim was walking or standing in the northbound lane of travel of Spirit Lake Road at the time he was hit.
The crash scene was well-lit, but the victim was wearing all-dark clothing.
Spirit Lake Road was closed for about three hours during the investigation.
If anyone has any information regarding this case, they are urged to call PCSO Detective Lucas at 863-668-3100.
To remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward, tips can be called in to Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS (8477).
On Sunday, February 16, 2025, Winter Haven Fire crews battled a brush fire along the WG Roe property in the Ave R and 7th St area in Winter Haven. No buildings were damaged and there were no injuries.
Winter Haven Public Safety Department wants to remind everyone to be extra vigilant during these dry times. Though Winter Haven received a little rain yesterday, conditions are still very dry and fires can start in the dry grass quickly. No outdoor burning, don’t park cars on dry grass and of course, dispose of cigarette butts properly (and not thrown out of windows). We can all do our part to prevent brush fires.
A local company stepped forward to “pay it forward” and have an automated external defibrillator (AED) donated to a local Moose Lodge.
On Monday evening, Wauchula Moose Lodge #1487 was the proud recipient of the 59th AED donated by Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF), a local non-profit dedicated to spreading awareness for heart health and donating AEDs to local establishments.
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The AED was donated thanks to a generous sponsorship made by National Industrial Solutions, which agreed to “pay it forward” to have the device installed at the Wauchula Moose Lodge.
Melanie Brown Culpepper, CCF founder, was contacted by Celena Bolin Goode, a lodge member who inquired about an AED. Celena had known Melanie personally for 25 years. As such, she recommended an AED from CCF to be installed at the Lodge.
“I think that CCF is an amazing Foundation and they are going to do big things for lots of people,” Celena said. “CCF is a movement to save lives and I am so proud to have been involved and spreading the word.”
Melanie replied that CCF’s waiting list was already booked full; however, a donation could be made within a month if someone agreed to “pay it forward.”
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“I knew Celena and her husband Stan from 25 years ago as I used to do their hair at Melanie’s Cutting Edge,” Melanie wrote on Facebook. “She got a message from her friend, Eddie Pence to say that his company, National Industrial Solutions, was going to sponsor their AED as a Pay It Forward.”
Celena was likewise impressed by another friend being willing to make such a generous donation to facilitate another generous donation to their organization.
“I think Eddie Pence is a generous person by reaching out to answer a need for an AED to help protect our members and friends at our lodge,” she said.
Audie Grantham, President of Wauchula Moose Lodge #1487, was honored to have an AED donated to his organization’s facility. He was especially pleased by how a friend of a member was able to step forward to help “pay it forward” to make the donation happen.
Moreover, following the installation of the AED and a demonstration by a local fire rescue technician, the Lodge proudly presented a check to CCF to help “pay it forward” for an AED at the Arcadia Moose Lodge #1327.
“Our membership had expressed a desire to get an AED for our Lodge,” Grantham explained. “Not only has Eddie been instrumental in making this happen but without him we wouldn’t have been able to pay it forward…The whole event was extra special for us. It’s something that we hope we never have to use but the fact that we have it if we need it is priceless. Thanks to CCF and Eddie from the bottom of our hearts.”
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Melanie started CCF nearly four years ago following the untimely passing of her late fiancée, Michael Culpepper, who had suffered cardiac arrest.
Not wanting anyone to suffer a similar fate, she started her non-profit organization to raise proceeds to donate AEDs across Polk County.
Since its inception, CCF has donated nearly 60 AEDs to businesses, restaurants, and other establishments across Polk County, including Tanner’s Lakeside, Old Man Frank’s, and Caribbean Bay.
“Thank you everyone and our community so very much, as without our community support, we could not make this all happen,” Melanie wrote on Facebook. “With community support, we hope to place a defibrillator on every city block. We may be the closest First Responder. It could be your friend your own family or even YOU [that] you’re saving.”
For more information, visit CCF’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/honoringculpepper
A world-renowned glass and window company could soon be setting up shop in Lake Wales now that the City has approved a $663K+ proposal to buy four lots in Longleaf Business Park.
At their meeting on Tues. Feb. 11, board members of the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) voted unanimously to approve a bid proposal from Uni-K Fenestration, LLC for the amount of $663,050.
The proposal was for the company to purchase four of the five lots at Longleaf Business Park, located near the intersection of US Highway 27 and Hunt Brothers Road.
The bid was made in response to an advertisement by the Lake Wales CRA, according to the city agenda memo, “to purchase and develop five (5) vacant parcels of land, or any combination thereof, in the Longleaf Business Park.”
City Manager James Slaton explained that the proposal was for Uni-K to purchase and develop four of five lots at the business park within two phases. Phase one would be to set up a warehouse for distribution, while phase two would set up a manufacturer.
Two other bids had been submitted by two other prospective companies. Danpol Developments submitted a proposal to buy all five lots for $720,000, while Taylor Industries offered a bid to purchase all five lots for $196,257.85.
City Manager Slaton explained that Uni-K Fenestration was the best choice because the company was willing to set up shop right away, as the company has expressed its intent to “go vertical” in 18 months and start manufacturing in 36 months.
“We chose Uni-K because they are ready to set up shops and employ people,” he said. “I think it is in our best interest to do business with the business that wants to set up shop.”
Uni-K Fenestration, according to its website, claims to be a company “where innovation meets excellence in the aluminum and glass industry.” Recently, its booth was awarded “Best in Show” at GlassBuild America 2024.
Following a video presentation of the company, Commissioner Carol Gillespie said that Uni-K appears to be serving “high rollers in the market.” Deputy Manager Robin Gibson said that the company would prove to be a “real breakthrough” with a “good incentive.”
All five board members voted unanimously to approve the proposal through a roll call vote. Now that it has been approved, the CRA Executive Director has been authorized to execute the attached Letter of Intent, subsequent Sale and Purchase agreement, and any other required documentation.
Attracting new businesses and restaurants to the downtown area, preserving its historic atmosphere, and helping promote mixed-use within the district are some of the criteria Lake Wales Main Street (LWMS) is expected to meet under its new contract with the City.
During their meeting on Feb. 14, 2025, board members of the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) reviewed and discussed its two-year contract with LWMS, a local non-profit organization dedicated to developing the city’s downtown area.
In lieu of its contract, LWMS agrees to fulfill several services, including:
• Implementing the comprehensive Main Street Four-Point Approach for the benefit of the city.
• Educate and promote the awareness of the Downtown Mixed-use Design Standards.
• Coordinate with the Historic Preservation Board and partner with the City in creating a Historic Preservation Ordinance, and
• actively recruit new businesses, with particular emphasis on restaurants, for the downtown area.
LWMS will receive $150,000 for the period of this contract from the CRA through the Downtown CRA fund; and in return, it will “submit an invoice each quarter accompanied by a detailed report regarding projects undertaken.”
Previously, LWMS had been employed under the city; however, through its new two-year contract, LWMS will serve as an independent entity.
Lake Wales Main Street Director Ronni Wood is especially proud of this contract for providing a definitive list of deliverables that her organization will be required to meet to help keep it accountable to the city.
She also boasted how well her organization has aspired to go above and beyond meeting the standards to remain accredited with its national program. Part of that process involves filling out an annual evaluation form. The total score is 116, and the passing score is 86. LWMS received a total score of 98.
“I am a big strong believer in accountability,” she said. “If you expect nothing, you get nothing. So I am all for you all wanting deliverables and accountability, and we will rise to that occasion.”
Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson appreciated how LWMS strived for accountability. He recalls years ago how poorly the CRA was abused and exploited by the city for its funds that it inspired him to run for his current political position to ensure better accountability.
“This town was not following the CRA guidelines,” he said. “They were using it as a cookie jar and trying to do city projects with CRA money. The key letter in CRA is our redevelopment and there was zero redevelopment. It drove me nuts. I want us, as a CRA, to do what CRAs do and not what cities do.”
“I keep thinking, over and over again, that this is not our money,” he continued. “We are fiduciaries. We have a responsibility to represent the best interests of the people whose money it really is, and that is our citizens, and we should have standards that comply with that money and we have to be guardians of that money to protect it from being abused. I saw it happen over and over again, and I do not want it to happen again.”
City Commissioner Keith Thompson asked if LWMS has any money reserves. Woods replied that they have a money market, CD, and checking account with more than $100,000. To which, Thompson inquired why such an organization needed so much money in a reserve account, and asked the board to look into the matter.
Mayor Jack Hilligoss recommended that the contract include even more specific measurables by which to judge LWMS. He mentioned the recent controversy with BizLinc, and how its contract was under fire for allegedly not meeting its goals with the city.
Commissioner Thompson similarly recommended an incentive program by which the city would give more to LWMS if it manages to do more through its contract.
“The more you do, the more we fund you, and I think it will be the most productive thing,” he said.
Woods commended the board for their insight and promised them that LWMS would remain committed to going above and beyond their expectations.
“[Thank you for] your wisdom and seeing that we are all on the same page,” she said. “Whatever you want, [we will do it]…to be good stewards of CRA funds.”
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Faustino Pintor, who departed this life on February 2, 2025, at the age of 28 in Bartow, Florida. Born on September 2, 1996, in Winter Haven, Florida, Faustino brought immense joy and laughter to those around him with his funny and energetic nature.
Faustino worked diligently as a roofer in the construction industry, a profession that showcased his loyalty and commitment to hard work. His vibrant personality and zest for life shone brightly in every endeavor he undertook. Known for being the life of the party, Faustino loved being the food taste tester when his dad was cooking meals, often delighting friends and family with his culinary opinions. He enjoyed wrestling weather it was him goofing around with family or watching it on the television. His passions extended outdoors, where he found solace in camping and fishing, activities that reflected his adventurous spirit and appreciation for nature.
Although his time with us was far too brief, Faustino left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him. His quick wit and ever-present smile will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
Faustino was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Martha G. Rodriguez. He leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory: his father, Javier Pintor, and stepmother, Erika Pintor; brothers Jonathan Pintor, Ray (Aricka) Garcia, and Victor Garcia; sisters Cassandra Rodriguez and Lorena (Omar) Mojica. He also held a special place in the hearts of his nieces and nephews.
While the world is dimmer without Faustino, his spirit lives on in the cherished memories and laughter he cultivated in those who loved him. His family, while grieving his loss, finds solace in the legacy of joy and steadfast love that he imparted throughout his life. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
At approximately 6:03 PM on Sunday, February 16, 2025, Polk County Fire Rescue received a call regarding a traffic collision near 1904 Masterpiece Rd. in Lake Wales.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer, Brian Bruchey, says the accident was reported to involve four vehicles, although only two could be confirmed at the time of publication (a Chrysler Town & Country and a Kia EV6).
The roadway was shut down in both directions for a short time as the accident was being cleared. 
Polk County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer Amber Smith, says there were “five patients with one a possible trauma alert enroute to a local hospital.”
Bok Tower Gardens presents “The Life and Times of Mary Louise Curtis Bok” on Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 2 -3 p.m.
To celebrate Women’s History Month, Barbara Benedett, the Senior Archivist at the Curtis Institute of Music will delve into the fascinating life of Mary Louise Curtis (1876-1970), wife of Edward Bok.
Mary was inspired to a life of philanthropy and a champion of education and culture. Through a friend, she found her calling in support of the Settlement Music School in Philadelphia which led to her realizing her dream of building a world-class music conservatory in the United States, the Curtis Institute of Music, now 100 years old.
Tickets are $10 for members and $30 for non-members. For more information to purchase tickets, please visit www.boktowergardens.org.
According to arrest affidavits for Brittany Godbold (DOB: 7/17/1990) and Christopher Godbold (DOB: 1/27/1989), both were arrested and taken into custody following a hit-and-run crash on Highway 17/92 near the intersection of W. Palm Lake Dr. in Winter Haven.
Winter Haven Police responded to the accident scene at approximately 5 p.m. on February 8th.
According to the arrest affidavit, Brittany Godbold was the at-fault driver involved in the hit-and-run:
“Upon my arrival, I observed [REDACTED] with passenger-side door damage and a deflated front passenger tire in the northside ditch on Hwy 92 W. I also observed a silver Jeep bearing an FL tag [REDACTED]. It should be noted that the victim was driving the gray Chrysler, and the defendant was driving the silver Jeep.
I made contact with the defendant, who advised the following: While traveling westbound on Hwy 92 W, the defendant attempted to change lanes and, in doing so, struck the rear of the victim’s vehicle. The defendant then left the scene and went to the hotel down the road, where she and her husband were staying, to retrieve her Florida driver’s license.
The defendant did not provide the victims with her contact information, nor did she check for any injuries or damage she may have caused.”*
A victim stated that they saw the defendant stop briefly to check if they were “moving.” Once the defendant observed the victim moving inside the vehicle, she made a U-turn on Hwy 92 W going eastbound but never exchanged information or checked on the victims’ well-being.
The affidavit further stated that when the officer conducted an inquiry into both the defendant and the victim through NCIC and FCIC, the defendant’s vehicle was found to have no valid insurance.
Brittany Godbold was taken into custody and charged with failing to carry motor vehicle liability insurance and leaving the scene of a crash involving property damage.
Incident Involving Christopher Godbold
During the crash investigation, a man named Christopher Godbold (whose exact relationship to Brittany Godbold is unclear) allegedly caused a disturbance with officers at the scene.
According to the arrest affidavit:
“On February 8th, 2025, at approximately 1730 hours, I arrived at the scene of a hit-and-run crash (WH25-745). I exited my marked patrol vehicle wearing my Class B uniform, which has a police patch on both the front and back, to investigate the incident.
I observed the defendant, later identified as Christopher Godbold, running toward the scene. He approached me and Officer Zamora while banging his chest with his fist. Due to this behavior, I was forced to stop my investigation. Godbold was yelling, ‘Don’t approach me,’ and became increasingly agitated when told he could not be at the scene under investigation. He responded by continuing to yell and throwing his glasses on the ground as he moved closer.
Officer Zamora and I instructed Godbold to leave the scene. He stated, ‘Do not touch me, or I will hurt you.’ As he walked away, he repeatedly stepped forward and muttered under his breath. At that point, Godbold was detained so we could continue investigating the hit-and-run crash.
Godbold stated that if law enforcement touched him, he would fight back. It should be noted that Godbold was not involved in the hit-and-run accident and did not require law enforcement assistance.
While being transported to the Polk County Processing Center, Godbold stated that if officers touched him, he would harm them but refused to elaborate further, saying it would incriminate him.”
As a result of the incident, Christopher Godbold is being charged with one count of making threats against a law enforcement officer with intent to prevent the officer from performing a lawful duty (F.S.S. 836.12(3)).
