WINTER HAVEN – A trip to the emergency room can be frightening for anyone, especially babies and children. To help ease those fears, employees, residents, and the local Walmart have teamed up with the Winter Haven Hospital to provide toys for young patients visiting the Emergency Department.
A Toy Drive was launched by the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation on May 28 with stacks of toys ready to comfort and distract little boys and girls during their visits while also helping nurses and doctors build trust with their youngest patients.
“When a child comes to any emergency department, it can appear to be a scary, intimidating place,” said Wayne Olson, President/CEO of the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation. “We always want their parents to know their child is getting the best care possible. However, it is equally important for the child to know the people in the room with them care about them. A toy is a wonderful way to build trust and a bond. It shows care and concern.”
Studies have shown that play therapy in a hospital setting reduces anxiety and negative emotions and also helps children express and communicate their feelings and emotions through toys.
Olson said the Foundation got involved after he spoke with Marta Mendoza, Director of Emergency Service for the Winter Haven Hospital.
“A few months ago, I was having a casual conversation with Marta when she told me how important it would be for the Emergency Room to be able to give toys to children. Not long after that I talked with my friend at Walmart and a few other friends of the Foundation, and we all decided we could make a difference together,” Olson said.
What started with two colleagues led to the recent Toy Drive as well as the previous donations of toys.
At the Toy Drive, Tom Garthwaite, President of Winter Haven Hospital, and BayCare Health System, welcomed Jerry Esquivel, Store Manager of the Winter Haven Walmart, and about twenty elves – also known as store employees – as they paraded into the room with arms full of gifts.
Tom Garthwaite, President of Winter Haven Hospital
The gifts from Walmart were stacked next to those already collected from employees and local residents. From Barbies to Star Wars action figures to baby dolls to stuffed puppies, dozens of gifts were donated. WWF wrestlers, coloring books and crayons, and stacks of gifts for infants and toddlers were given too.
“We have a great relationship with our local Walmart, and we are pleased to have them as the sponsor of this Toy Drive event,” Garthwaite said. “It’s like Santa’s sleigh just passed through.”
Walmart’s donations at the Toy Drive added up to more than $1,000 in toys which was a surprise for the ED.
“We especially liked the idea of surprising the Emergency Department team with a grand kick off. They really are unsung heroes. As much as they want children to know they care about them, we wanted the fantastic people in the Emergency Department to know we as a community support them and care about them,” Olson said.
Last October, the Winter Haven Hospital added pediatric emergency observation services and telehealth support to the Emergency Roomcreating the need for toys.
Although the Toy Drive was a big success, collecting toys for the ED will be an ongoing effort since the toys will need to be “refilled” as they are given to the patients.
“The events of last week were just the kick-off. This is a program that happens every day and will continue forever. For our event on May 28, the goal was to get us started in a big way, and to have enough toys for every age group so we would be set for a while as we grow the program,” Olson said.
T. Michael Stavres, Winter Haven City Manager and member of the Coastal Acoustic Barefoot Music, has also committed to donating the band’s tips to the Toy Drive, as well.
The Foundation has made donating a toy easy for anyone who would like to do so.
“We have QR codes (included with this article) on pamphlets throughout our hospital and website and where people can give a toy anytime. Through our partnership with Walmart anyone can purchase a toy (approved as safe by our Emergency Department) and Walmart will deliver it directly to the hospital,” Olson said. For more information, call Olson at 863.292.4334
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a traffic fatality that occurred during the early morning hours of Sunday, June 7, 2026, in Auburndale.
Around 1:40 a.m., a 56-year-old Auburndale man was heading home from work in his 2007 black Mercedes Benz and driving eastbound on US Hwy 92 when he struck a bicyclist from behind who was also heading eastbound in the inside lane of the highway; the impact occurred approximately 500 feet west of the Polk Parkway. The bicyclist, an adult middle-aged male who appears to be homeless, died at the scene.
The bicyclist had on dark clothing and was not wearing any reflective gear, nor was he wearing a helmet. The bike did not appear to be equipped with lights or reflectors. Investigators are still working to positively identify him and notify his next of kin.
Neither impairment nor excessive speed on the part of the Mercedes driver appear to be factors but the investigation is ongoing.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a traffic fatality that occurred during the early morning hours of Sunday, June 7, 2026, in Auburndale.
Around 1:40 a.m., a 56-year-old Auburndale man was heading home from work in his 2007 black Mercedes Benz and driving eastbound on US Hwy 92 when he struck a bicyclist from behind who was also heading eastbound in the inside lane of the highway; the impact occurred approximately 500 feet west of the Polk Parkway. The bicyclist, an adult middle-aged male who appears to be homeless, died at the scene.
The bicyclist had on dark clothing and was not wearing any reflective gear, nor was he wearing a helmet. The bike did not appear to be equipped with lights or reflectors. Investigators are still working to positively identify him and notify his next of kin.
Neither impairment nor excessive speed on the part of the Mercedes driver appear to be factors but the investigation is ongoing.
On June 5, 2026, deputies responded to a reported accidental, self-inflicted shooting involving a child. During the course of the investigation, detectives determined that circumstances surrounding the incident warranted criminal charges against the a woman who was allegedly watching the child, identified as Nicole Felippe. This affidavit outlines the facts and evidence gathered during the investigation that establish probable cause for the charges filed in connection with the shooting.
The defendant’s criminal history includes prior arrests for possession of marijuana, disorderly conduct, battery, failure to appear, and violation of probation.
“The Polk County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation on June 5, 2026 involving a six year old child, VICTIM – REDACTED being shot in the right leg by a handgun. The incident occurred at REDACTED Bishop James Cochran Way, Winter Haven, Florida.
I responded to Winter Haven Hospital and learned the following information; Nicole Felippe was the only adult home with THE VICTIM (6 YOA) when she heard a pop after she exited the shower. Nicole advised she ran out of the room, saw blood everywhere and wrapped up THE VICTIM and then transported him to Winter Haven Hospital.
A sworn recorded interview was conducted with REDACTED (father of THE VICTIM) who advised he was out running errands and left THE VICTIM in the care of Nicole at their residence. REDACTED was at Dollar General around the corner from the residence when he received a phone call from Nicole advising something happened to THE VICTIM. REDACTED returned to the residence where he observed blood to be spattered around the residence. He observed a small black handgun that he did not recognize on the floor of the residence. REDACTED picked the firearm up and placed it on to a shelf. REDACTED and Nicole then transported THE VICTIM to Winter Haven Hospital to seek treatment. Neither party contacted law enforcement nor emergency medical services in attempts to get help forTHE VICTIM. It should be noted REDACTED advised him and Nicole often have parties but are unaware of anyone bringing firearms to the residence.
A screening was conducted with THE VICTIM at Winter Haven Hospital and I learned the following information: He found a gun and shot it subsequently striking himself in the right leg. THE VICTIM was at his father’s house when this occurred. THE VICTIMdisclosed Rose who was later identified as Nicole Felippe was the person who drove him to Winter Haven Hospital in his daddy’s car.
Winter Haven Hospital Medical Staff confirmed THE VICTIM sustained tibia fracture to his right leg and it appears the round from the firearm entered through his thigh and exited through his shin.
I arrived to the residence and made contact with Nicole Felippe. I explained to Nicole the process to which I requested her consent to go into the residence to collect items of evidentiary value to which she refused to provide consent.
A search warrant was written for the residence in order to locate items of evidentiary value which was authored by The Honorable Judge Cassandra Denmark. The search warrant was executed at 2102 hours on June 5, 2026.
While searching the residence for the firearm, I observed a baggie containing a green leafy substance, a lid container containing a green leafy substance, a plate containing a green leafy substance, a gold scale, and a glass pipe which is commonly used as a smoking device in plain view of Nicole’s bedroom. The items were located in various locations such as underneath a table and on top of a table. It should be noted Nicole is the sole occupant of this bedroom.
I utilized a DetectaChem – CBD/THC test kit on a portion of the substance, which yielded a blue color, indicating a presumptive positive for THC result, indicating the presence of 0.3% or more.
Based on the information learned during my investigation, probable cause exists to show Nicole Felippe violated FSS 827.03(2)(B).- Neglect a Child with Great Bodily Harm with culpable negligence while she was the sole caregiver of THE VICTIM who was able to obtain a firearm and shoot himself in the leg, FSS 893.13(6)(B)- Possession of Cannabis Under 20 Grams and FSS 893.147(1)- Poss /Use Drug Paraphernalia while having cannabis in her bedroom and smoking devices in plain view of her bedroom.”
The next Polk County Sheriff’s Office Women’s Basic Self Defense* and Personal Safety* class is scheduled for Saturday, June 6th from 10am – Noon.
Join our Crime Prevention Unit for a couple of hours to learn some basic moves and information that could help keep you safe in a bad situation.
The class is FREE of charge and designed for ladies 13 years and older. Those under 18 will need a parent present to sign a waiver at the start of class.
Each class is approximately one hour long unless more than 30 women attend. For every additional 10-15 females, 15 minutes are added to the time frame.
The class consists of lecture (approximately 15 minutes) and hands-on techniques (approximately 45 minutes). Attendees will demonstrate all of the techniques on a body opponent bag (B.O.B.) which we will supply.
NEXT CLASS: Saturday, June 6, 2026 PCSO Sheriff’s Operations Center 1891 Jim Keene Blvd, Winter Haven 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
If you wish to attend, please RSVP to [email protected], and please include your name and phone number.
A 22-year-old motorcyclist was arrested after allegedly fleeing from law enforcement while traveling at speeds exceeding 140 miles per hour on Interstate 4, according to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.
The rider, identified as Ethan McAuley-Mendez, was first spotted by a Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputy who was conducting traffic enforcement on I-4. The deputy observed the motorcycle traveling at 127 mph and attempted to initiate a traffic stop.
Rather than stopping, McAuley-Mendez accelerated and continued down the interstate, allegedly outrunning the deputy. Sheriff Judd later commented on the incident, saying, “You can’t outrun the radio.”
During the pursuit, McAuley-Mendez also passed a Florida Highway Patrol trooper. According to the trooper, the motorcycle was traveling in excess of 140 mph at the time.
The pursuit eventually came to an end when the motorcyclist stopped at a gas station to refuel. A second Florida Highway Patrol trooper spotted him at the gas pumps, allowing law enforcement to take him into custody without further incident.
McAuley-Mendez was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and charged with reckless driving and fleeing to elude law enforcement. His motorcycle was towed from the scene.
Sheriff Judd emphasized the dangers of the incident, stating, “This guy is fortunate enough he gets to live to go to court.”
The City of Auburndale is inviting residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day at its annual Fourth of July Celebration on Saturday, July 4, at Lake Ariana Park & Civic Center, located at 2220 Lake Ariana Boulevard in Auburndale.
The day-long event will feature family-friendly activities and entertainment from 11:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m., culminating with a spectacular fireworks display beginning at 9:00 p.m.
Attendees can enjoy a variety of attractions throughout the day, including live music, fun games, food trucks, magic shows, and a cornhole tournament. One of the event’s featured attractions will be a performance by the renowned Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team, which will showcase its talents on Lake Ariana.
City officials say there will be plenty of activities for all ages, making the celebration a great opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to come together and honor America’s birthday.
For more information about the Fourth of July Celebration, contact the City of Auburndale at (863) 965-5545.
A former employee of a well known Bartow law firm is facing multiple felony charges after State Attorney’s Office investigators alleged she diverted client payments, created false records, and concealed missing funds over a period of several years.
Natalie Escamilla, 39, has been charged with Grand Theft between $20,000 and $100,000, Scheme to Defraud greater than $20,000, Grand Theft between $750 and $5,000, 15 counts of Forgery, and 15 counts of Uttering a Forged Instrument.
Natalie Escamilla Polk County Mugshot
According to the affidavit, the case began when attorney Gil Colon learned his law firm’s trust account was overdrawn. While attempting to determine why the account was short, Colon discovered thousands of dollars in payments that had been documented as received by the office but allegedly never reached the trust account. Investigators say the review eventually uncovered dozens of additional transactions that appeared in office records but could not be matched to deposits into the firm’s accounts.
Investigators allege Escamilla, who handled a significant portion of client payments for the firm, collected cash and electronic payments intended for the law office but failed to deposit some of those funds into the firm’s trust account. Instead, investigators allege some payments were routed into Escamilla’s personal accounts.
The affidavit states the investigation expanded after Attorney Gil Colon discovered issues involving missing funds and requested a review of office records. According to investigators, a forensic examination of payment records, bank statements, accounting documents, electronic payment records, and client accounts revealed numerous discrepancies between payments documented by the office and deposits received by the firm.
Investigators further allege Escamilla used multiple methods to conceal missing funds. According to the affidavit, some clients were instructed to send payments through Zelle, with investigators later alleging the money was deposited into Escamilla’s personal accounts rather than the law firm’s trust account.
The affidavit also alleges investigators uncovered payment receipts documenting money orders and credit card payments that either could not be verified or were later disputed by clients. In one instance, investigators allege payments continued to be collected from a client whose criminal case had already been dismissed. In another, investigators allege receipts were created for money orders that family members later stated were never purchased or submitted to the law firm.
According to investigators, the review identified numerous clients whose payments were documented in office records but did not appear to have been deposited into the firm’s accounts. The affidavit alleges the conduct began in 2022 and continued through 2025.
Investigators also allege Escamilla received more than $16,000 in Zelle payments from clients and that additional cash payments totaling thousands of dollars were never deposited into the law firm’s trust account.
Court records indicate investigators reviewed bank records, Zelle records, Cash App records, office accounting documents, client statements, text messages, emails, and information recovered from an office-issued cellphone during the investigation.
Investigators conducted a controlled phone call as part of the investigation. Details from that call were included among the evidence supporting the charges.
Escamilla has a court appointed attorney and has been issued bond.
Looking for live entertainment in the Winter Haven area this weekend? From country music and classic hits to karaoke and local favorites, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy great music and support local performers.
Cypresswood Pub
Cypresswood Pub has a full lineup of entertainment scheduled throughout the weekend:
Thursday: DJ Kris spins favorite hits from the 1980s through the 2000s from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Friday:B Haven Band performs live from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday:Prime Country takes the stage from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Tanner’s Lakeside
Tanner’s Lakeside will also be featuring live entertainment all weekend long:
Friday: Karaoke night from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday: Live music from Blake Free from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday:Second Hand Smoke performs from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Busy Weekend for B Haven Band
Fans of B Haven Band will have multiple opportunities to catch the group performing throughout the area this weekend.
In addition to their Friday night performance at Cypresswood Pub from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the band will also perform:
Saturday: American Legion Post 8 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday: Twisted Prop from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
With three performances in three days, B Haven Band will be one of the busiest acts in the Winter Haven area this weekend.
Want Your Music Featured?
Musicians performing in the Winter Haven area who would like their shows included in a future roundup can submit their schedules to [email protected]. Be sure to include “LIVE MUSIC” in the subject line to be featured in an upcoming edition of the Winter Haven Daily music listings.
