On January 17, 2025 at 7:31 a.m., Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) units were dispatched to a traffic collision reported near Kathleen Road in Lakeland.
We reached out to public information officer Katelyn Hoverkamp and she stated, “Upon PCFR’s arrival at 7:41 a.m., crews located one fatality. No patients were transported from the scene.
PCFR cleared the call at 8:11 a.m. and the call was transferred to Law Enforcement for investigation.”
For a period of time, all traffic east and west on Knights Station Road in Lakeland was shut down. At the time of publication, the roadway is back open.
We reached out to Lakeland Police Department for additional details, and they advised that at 7:14 a.m. Lakeland Police Department officers were dispatched after receiving a report of a woman walking southbound on the railroad tracks adjacent to the 2600 block of Kathleen Road. A short time later a call was received from CSX in reference to their train impacting a pedestrian in that area.
Responding officers located the victim, Rosa Guerra (age 72) of Lakeland and found she suffered fatal injuries. This case remains an open and active investigation.
On January 17, 2025 at 3:34 p.m. a 911 call came in for a vehicle accident at the intersection of Waverly Road and Cypress Gardens Blvd.
Expect delays. The northbound lane of 27 is currently shut down. (At time of publication)
Polk County Sheriff’s Office is working the crash and advised that the temporary closure is to land medical chopper.
Also according to PCSO there are two separate crashes in this area.
The first appeared to be minor, north of the intersection, between a box truck and a car. Then south of the intersection, a vehicle rollover with more serious injuries.
In the rollover crash, the vehicles involved are a Hyundai Santa Fe & Kia Sol. One patient is being transported.
Photo credit Kirby JohnsonPhoto credit Kirby Johnson
Cooking on the Ridge: Lemon Cucumber Mint Ginger Detox Water
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by James Coulter
It’s a new year. You know what that means? New year’s resolutions!
This year, my resolution is to cut back on soft drinks and fast food. I’m not going to cut all of that completely out of my diet, but I want to drink less soda and eat less fast food than what I’m currently accustom to.
However, for January, I have decided to go cold turkey on soft drinks and fast food–at least for this month. Otherwise, I’m strictly eating food prepared at home and drinking nothing but water.
Well, I’m not simply drinking water. I’m drinking detox water made with lemon, cucumber, ginger, and mint. Not only does it taste better than plain water, but it also provides better benefits and nutrients.
Lemons and cucumbers contain water, which help aid in hydration. Ginger and mint reduce inflammation. Lemon and ginger boost metabolism. And ginger helps soothe digestion to help reduce bloating and indigestion.
I didn’t tell anyone I had given up soft drinks for water. However, one week after starting my diet, a family member told me that I looked slimmer and less bloated. So, it seems to be doing it’s job.
If you want to start off with a healthier new year, give this detox water. It’s much more refreshing and rejuvenating than carbonated drinks, and best of all, it has no empty calories.
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Lemon Cucumber Mint Ginger Detox Water
3 lemons, sliced
1 cucumber, sliced
2 tablespoons grated ginger
1 bunch mint leaves
1. Rinse ingredients and place into a large pitcher. Fill pitcher with water. Stir until well mixed. Add a few squeezes of lemon or lime juice for added flavor.
2. Drink as desired. Refill when pitcher gets near empty. Add lemon juice as desired. Contents should be good for a week in refrigerator.
On 1/9/2025, APD responded to the McDonald’s located at 2207 Highway 92 W., in Auburndale, FL in reference to a petit theft. The victim was walking around when she left her phone on the front counter by the registers. When the victim turned and looked away, an unknown male stole her purple Samsung Flip Five (5) phone with a blue case off the counter and then exited the business. The unknown male fled the area in a purple Dodge Durango.
SUSPECT – Male, mid 30’s, bald head, dark mustache and goatee, LSW a gray hoodie
A crash is impacting the intersection of Hwy 17 at MLK Blvd westbound. MLK Blvd is blocked at this time. Drivers should avoid the area and consider different routes.
PSA: A traffic control device located at the intersection of Dairy Rd. and E. Bridgers Ave. is currently down. Please treat this stop as a four-way stop.
Thank you and please reach out to (863) 965-5555 if you have any questions or require more information.
At the Brussels Motor Show, the new Ram 1500 RHO is on display to the European public for the first time, alongside the successful RAM 1500 Laramie Night Edition.
Built to conquer any terrain, the Ram 1500 RHO has outstanding off-road features and is powered by the 3.0-liter Hurricane High Output Straight-Six Turbo engine.
With sophisticated styling, the Ram 1500 Laramie Night Edition makes a statement with its black accents and premium interior features.
Ram Trucks also highlights its new Ram connectivity services, which offers exclusive features like 24/7 assistance, vehicle tracking and geofencing through the Brand’s official network, complimentary on all versions of the new RAM 1500 (MY25).
Orders for the RHO open in January, with distribution to European dealerships scheduled for early 2025.
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Turin, January 10th, 2025 – From January 10 to 19, Ram Trucks, represented by Klintberg & Way, one of the Brand’s authorized traders in Europe, will present the new Ram 1500 RHO to the European public for the first time at the Brussels Motor Show. Redefining off-road adventures for European customers, the RHO model offers exceptional performance, enhanced traction and robust design. The Brand will also showcase the Ram 1500 Laramie Night Edition, distinguished by its sleek black aesthetics and refined interior.
RHO: Power and precision for any off-road adventure The new Ram 1500 RHO is powered by the 3.0-liter Hurricane High Output (H/O) Straight-Six Turbo (SST) engine, delivering 540 hp and 706 Nm of torque. Part of the Stellantis Hurricane Twin-turbo family, this engine delivers enhanced fuel economy and fewer emissions, while generating more horsepower and torque than other V-8 and six-cylinder engines in the segment.
Designed to conquer any terrain, the RHO ensures superior performance. At its core, the five-link rear coil suspension improves handling and ride comfort, offering 40% more articulation than traditional leaf springs to maintain control over rough surfaces. With 30 cm of ground clearance, a 5-cm ride height increase over the standard Ram 1500 lineup, and 35-inch tires, the RHO effortlessly navigates challenging obstacles.
A BorgWarner full-time active transfer case and a Dana 60 rear axle with an electronic locking differential provide the strength and stability needed for rugged terrains. Additionally, the Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks, coupled with Ram’s Active Terrain Dynamics system, deliver a smooth ride and precise handling, both on- and off-road.
In terms of capability, the RHO offers a payload of 650 kg, a towing capacity at the maximum level in Europe — giving customers the possibility to tow up to 3.5 tons — and up to 81 cm of water fording.
A widened stance, composite flares, and an hourglass body shape enhance the truck’s rugged appeal. The R-A-M grille, hood scoop, and integrated skid plates are designed to optimize performance while reinforcing its commanding presence.
Inside, the RHO exudes premium craftsmanship, with 12-way power leather front seats including memory settings, a new massage function and embroidered logos. Attention to details takes one step further with available hand-wrapped instrument panels, a custom center console badge with vehicle-specific VIN and an RHO badge on the passenger’s side instrument panel.
Designed to be the most technologically advanced pickup ever, the Ram 1500 RHO offers an array of innovative features combined with the fifth generation of the Uconnect system, which is five times faster than the previous generation.
The RHO boasts over 50 inches of combined available digital display screens. This includes a 14.5-inch central touchscreen with split-screen capability and a class-exclusive 10.25-inch passenger screen with functions of co-pilot, entertainment and view of the exterior vehicle cameras. It also features a full-color Head Up Display (HUD) with a highly customizable interface, while the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster shows nearly two dozen different menus.
In-cabin technology is further elevated with class-exclusive dual wireless phone charging and a premium 900-watt Harman Kardon sound system with 19 speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer for an immersive sound experience.
The Ram 1500 RHO will be available in European dealerships from early 2025.
Laramie Night: Refined style, exceptional value At the event, the Brand is also exhibiting the Ram 1500 Laramie Night Edition. Combining sophisticated looks with comfort and cutting-edge technology, it is the perfect choice for those seeking a premium truck with a distinct edge. Beneath its singular exterior lies the new 3.0-liter Hurricane Standard Output SST engine, delivering 420 hp and 636 Nm of torque, paired with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Laramie Night Edition offers a premium interior equipped with the Laramie Level 2 Equipment Group, featuring the Uconnect 5 system with a 14.4-inch touchscreen, dual wireless charging, a 10.2-inch front passenger screen and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system. Comfort is elevated with heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel and a dual-pane sunroof.
Visually, the Laramie Night Edition stands out with its timeless Diamond Black Crystal exterior, Sport Performance Hood and body-color bumpers. Black-painted accents, such as door handles, mirror caps, grille with R-A-M lettering, headlamp and taillamp bezels, badges and dual exhaust tips create a striking, cohesive look. The 22-inch black-painted aluminum wheels with all-season tires and black side steps add a bold, functional edge.
The model is completed with a Power Tailgate.
In celebration of Klintberg & Way’s 50th anniversary, a Special Laramie Night Edition will be exclusively unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show.
The RAM 1500 Laramie Night KW 50th Anniversary features custom body stripes, branded floor mats and two versatile accessories designed for both work and leisure: the Backflip tonneau cover and the innovative Swing Case storage boxes. These features make the model ideal for everyday use, whether on the job or during downtime.
This special edition will be available in Belgium starting early 2025, with an exclusive Brussels Motor Show offer for professionals. The discount applies to customers with a VAT or company number, with prices starting at €70,400 (VAT excluded).
New Ram Connectivity Services Through its official network in Europe, Ram Trucks unlocks the new Ram connectivity services, designed specifically for the 2025 Ram 1500 European model. Free of charge for the first 12 months, the Ram connectivity package offers a suite of advanced connected services that enhance the driving experience, ensuring peace of mind and convenience for owners.
The Ram connectivity system includes real-time vehicle localization, enabling drivers to track their vehicle’s location at any time. The system also offers geofencing capabilities, allowing owners to set virtual boundaries and receive alerts when their vehicle enters or exits designated areas.
In the event of an emergency, Ram connectivity provides automatic theft alerts and facilitates direct communication with law enforcement. It also offers 24/7 emergency assistance and notifications for critical driving behaviors such as speeding, rapid acceleration, hard braking and sharp turns. Additional features include accident notifications, valet parking mode and fuel/battery level monitoring.
Whether you’re after a sleek, modern style or a classic shave and cut reminiscent of old-fashioned barbershops, Best Cuts Barbershop is the place for you. We seamlessly blend contemporary trends with time-honored traditions to cater to all preferences.
At Best Cuts, we pride ourselves on being the barbershop where frequent visits mean our stylists know your preferred trim by heart. It’s a place where every visit feels like catching up with an old friend.
While we honor the essence of a traditional barbershop, we also stay in tune with modern hair trends. If a high-end, trendy salon isn’t your scene, you’ll find comfort in our welcoming atmosphere that feels both familiar and forward-thinking.
Experience quality shaves and haircuts reminiscent of your father’s and grandfather’s time, but with a modern twist. Best Cuts offers not just a decent haircut but a full grooming experience, including hot towel shaves and more.
“We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel,” said Art. “We stick with what has worked for hundreds of years, but with a nod to today’s styles. We’re trained in traditional techniques, yet open to modern touches.”
For Art and his skilled team, maintaining tradition hasn’t just kept loyal customers coming back—it’s expanded their client base exponentially.
“We’ve been growing year after year,” Art shared. “We’ve added more chairs and barbers. We’re absolutely blessed, and it’s all thanks to our fantastic team and our loyal customers.”
Founded by Art’s mother-in-law and her business partner in 2004, Best Cuts has grown to include Art’s wife in 2017 and Art himself in 2020.
Transitioning from a 16-year career as a mechanic to barbering, Art found his calling. “Barbering is a lot easier on the body than fixing cars for a living,” he said. “When the pandemic hit, it felt like the stars aligned, and I finally pursued my dream of becoming a barber.”
Beyond haircuts and shaves, Best Cuts offers a range of men’s grooming products. Whether you’re dealing with flaky scalps or ingrown hairs, their soaps, shampoos, and lotions will have you covered.
Best Cuts is perfect for anyone in the family, from young men to seasoned gentlemen. “A lot of kids are raised by single moms,” Art explained. “We teach young men how to shave and groom themselves. We’re a traditional barbershop in every sense—family-oriented and welcoming to all.”
Visit Best Cuts Barbershop at 213 Ave. O SW, Winter Haven, FL 33880.
Help Folks Foot Addiction at Foot on the Chain This Weekend
by James Coulter
Seven years ago, a local barefoot water-skier’s life had hit rock bottom. Tim Collette was struggling with addiction and he needed help.
With help from his parents, he went into rehab. Now, seven years later, Tim has remained clean and sober ever since.
However, Tim knows how hard it is for someone in such a situation, whether they’re battling with addiction or alcoholism, to receive help.
He knows, all too well, how even someone who wants to seek help has trouble finding it, even if, unbeknownst to them, help is close within reach.
For Tim, the help he needed was only ten minutes away from where he lived.
“I had no idea how accessible recovery and health was,” he said. “It is so much more accessible anyone really realizes.”
For that reason, Tim has been hosting the Foot on the Chain fundraiser, and he will be hosting the next event this weekend on the Chain of Lakes on Saturday.
Foot on the Chain has been hosted for the past four years. What started as a trial event for barefoot waterskiing eventually transformed into a day and a half long water ski music festival.
The competition will have 10 participating teams, trailering their barefoot boats, from all over the country, racing through 13 different lakes on the Chain of Lakes in Winter Haven. Each lake they receive a dart, and at the very end, the teams go to breakfast to shoot those darts and the team with the most points wins.
The festivities will continue at Tanner’s Lakeside in Winter Haven for an evening of live music, raffles, t-shirts, and even a flyboard and fireworks show.
Proceeds will benefit the Clean Pirate Life Foundation, an addiction awareness foundation. Their proceeds will go toward building a sober living house in Winter Haven.
“So the cool thing about the event is that waterskiing will be going on at Lake May throughout the day during the live music,” Tim explained. “So, we are trying to bring the water ski community and local music community together.”
Tim has been an avid water-skier ever since the ripe age of three. He started barefoot waterskiing at age 12 and show skiing at age 15. He moved to Florida at age 22, and had been living in Winter Haven for five years.
Foot on the Chain has grown over the past four years since its inception. Last year, more than 88 folks registered for the event, and Tim is expecting it to be bigger and better this year.
Foot on the Chain will start with a kickoff event on Friday evening with the main event on Saturday. The race will begin from Tanner’s Lakeside at 7:30 AM, with the festivities continuing and concluding at Tanner’s Lakeside.
For more information, call 863-514-8935, or visit footthechain.com and footthechain on Facebook and Instagram.
Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a parade on Saturday! Road closures are scheduled for Saturday, January 18, 2025, during the 46th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade.
Closures will begin around 9 AM and are expected to reopen by 12 PM.
Temporary delays may occur at the intersection of S. Lake Silver Dr and 3rd St NW. The map indicates the closures and detours.
