TROPICAL STORM GABRIELLE FORMS OVER THE CENTRAL TROPICAL ATLANTIC… …FORECAST TO REMAIN OVER OPEN WATERS FOR SEVERAL DAYS
*currently no threat expected for Polk County
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Tuesday, September 16, 2025 Atlantic Tropical Weather Outlook :
Central Tropical Atlantic (AL92): Showers and thunderstorms associated with a broad low pressure area located about midway between the Windward Islands and the coast of west Africa have become better organized since yesterday. Environmental conditions are conducive for additional development, and a tropical depression or storm is likely to form in the next day or two as the system moves west-northwestward or northwestward at 10 to 15 mph over the central tropical Atlantic. It has a high (90 percent) chance of formation in the next 48 hours and the next 7 days.
Models predict a turn close to Bermuda early next week.
Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave emerging off the west coast of Africa is producing an area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Some slow development of this system is possible towards the mid to latter part of this week as it moves westward at 15 to 20 mph, moving from the eastern to central portion of the tropical Atlantic. It has a near zero chance of development in the next 48 hours and a low (20 percent) chance in the next 7 days.
Information provided by the National Hurricane Center
A pedestrian was fatally hit by a vehicle in Bartow Monday evening, September 15, 2025, and the crash is being investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
First responders were dispatched at around 7:55 pm to the intersection of US 98 and Lyle Parkway in Bartow. Upon their arrival, the victim was found with fatal injuries.
The driver of the vehicle that was involved was not injured, and remained at the scene for the investigation.
The victim was a 65-year old male from Lakeland. Traffic Homicide detectives are still working to notify the victim’s next of kin who are out of state.
According to the preliminary investigation, a 2022 BMW X6 was traveling north in the inside lane of US 98 at about the speed limit of 45 mph. The victim was struck while also occupying the inside lane.
There is no crosswalk at this intersection.
Northbound US 98 was closed for approximately four hours while detectives and forensic investigators remained on scene.
No criminal charges are anticipated, but the investigation is ongoing.
Your kidneys – the bean-shaped organs located near the middle of your back on either side of your spine – play a vital role in your overall health. While many people don’t think about them unless there’s an issue, they filter waste from your blood, which is released as urine, and do other jobs, such as helping control blood pressure, keeping bones healthy, managing vitamin D levels, regulating electrolytes and making red blood cells.
However, 1 in 7 Americans is living with kidney disease, which occurs when the kidneys are damaged and can’t filter blood as well as they should. Additionally, 9 out of 10 people with kidney disease are unaware they have it because symptoms often don’t appear until the kidneys are badly damaged.
A survey of the public awareness of kidney disease conducted by YouGov on behalf of the American Kidney Fund shows common misconceptions related to kidney disease. Consider these facts from “Know Your Kidneys” as a roadmap toward a better understanding of kidney disease and steps to improve health.
1. Kidney disease impacts all communities. Kidney disease does not discriminate; it can affect individuals from all walks of lite, regardless of age, race or socioeconomic status. Among those with some form of kidney disease, 6% are 18-29 years old, 19% are 30-44, 34% are 45-64 and 41% are 65 or older. While certain demographics may have higher prevalence rates due to genetic or environmental factors, no community is immune.
2. Dialysis can be done at home. Many people are unaware that dialysis, a lifesaving treatment for those suffering from kidnev failure, can be performed at home. In fact, less than half (45%) who are aware of dialysis believe it can be done at home, according to the survey. Home dialysis offers greater flexibility and can improve quality of life, allowing patients to maintain a more regular lifestyle by reducing required clinic visits.
There are two main types of home dialysis: peritoneal dialysis and home hemodialysis.
Both methods require training, but home dialysis can empower patients to take control of their treatment and manage their condition more effectively.
3. Diabetes is the most common cause. Though only 33% of people surveyed identified the most common cause of kidney disease, diabetes accounts for nearly half of all cases of kidney failure (47%), according to the American Kidney Fund.
High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys over time, leading to a gradual decline in kidney function. Managing blood sugar levels through diet, exercise and medication may help prevent kidney damage. Additionally, undergoing regular check-ups with a health care provider can be useful in monitoring kidney function and catching early signs of kidney disease.
4. Medications can help manage kidney disease. While 19% of people surveyed believe diet ano exercise are the only ways to manage kidney disease, various medications can, in fact, help manage the condition, stop or slow its progression and help prevent complications.
These include medications to lower blood pressure, control blood sugar levels and treat anemia and bone disease associated with kidney disease.
Patients should work closely with their health care providers to develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. Taking medicines as prescribed and making lifestyle changes, such as managing weight, maintaining a balanced diet, staying active ano avoiding smoking can improve outcomes and enhance quality of life.
5. Specific tests can assess kidney function.
There are several tests available to assess kidney function and detect abnormalities early on. However, only a minority of survey respondents recognized all the tests recommended to assess kidney function and knew whether they’d taken the tests. The most common tests include blood tests to measure creatinine levels and urine tests to check for protein or blood, which can be indicators of kidney problems. Talk to your doctor about these tests and whether they’re right for you.
Regular screening, especially for those at higher risk of kidney disease, including individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure, can lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention.
Join City of Lake Alfred staff and your neighbors for a fun-filled Community BBQ on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Albertus Maultsby Community Center (655 N 3rd St, Lake Alfred, FL 33850).
Enjoy delicious food, games for all ages, and a waterslide to help beat the heat! It’s a great opportunity to connect with the community, meet city staff, and have some outdoor fun.
Don’t miss out—bring your family and friends. We can’t wait to see you there!
Welcome, World Travelers! TRON: Ares Red Overlay Coming to TRON Lightcycle/Run
by James Coulter
To promote the upcoming premiere of TRON: Ares, TRON Lightcycle/Run in at Magic Kingdom Walt Disney World will be receiving a red-colored overlay matching the new movie’s aesthetics.
Several big announcements about the Disney parks were made during Destination D23, hosted during the last weekend of August at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World.
One announcement, made during the Walt Disney Studios showcase on Sat. Aug. 30, was that TRON Lightcycle/Run presented by Enterprise, starting Sep. 15, would be receiving a special limited-time overlay to help celebrate the release of the new TRON: Ares film.
“Replacing the blue and orange hues of the ride, you’ll weave through twisting tunnels of vibrant red and orange light trails, feeling the rush of wind and the surge of acceleration as you compete in a dazzling Lightcycle race,” Disney Parks Blog reported.
“The striking red hues in Tron: Ares within the digital realm contrast sharply with the classic blue tones of the Grid,” the blog continued. “Adding to the immersive visuals, the pulsating industrial sounds of Nine Inch Nails will drive the ride’s energy, pushing your experience between the Grid and reality into a fully immersive, futuristic symphony of light, speed, and sound.”
TRON Lightcycle Power Run presented by Chevrolet at Shanghai Disney Resort will also be receiving a similar overlay starting Sept. 16.
TRON: Ares will be the third film in the TRON trilogy, which includes 1982’s TRON and 2010’s TRON: Legacy. While the previous films had human characters being transported into the computer world, the new movie will have characters from the computer world invading the human world. The new movie opens in theaters on Oct. 10, 2025.
Dr. Dwayne Frank of Lakeland, FL was born in Nampa, ID on January 17, 1938, the oldest of four brothers to Pastor Irving and Laverne Frank. He began attending Cedarville College in Ohio in 1956 and married his high school sweetheart JoAnn Watson in 1960.
Earning his Doctor of Education from the University of Idaho, he returned to Cedarville College in 1968 to serve as Professor of Education. There he invested in teaching students for over 40 years, retiring in 2009. His students have taught throughout the US and all over the world. He had a special commitment to providing English teachers to universities across China.
As a young boy, he surrendered his heart to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He grew to love his Lord and diligently served Christ, His church, and loved to share the Gospel throughout his life. His faith was the foundation of his home, while raising his three daughters.
He is survived by his immediate family-his wife JoAnn, his children Stephanie and David Carr, Sandra and James Canterbury, and Shelly Schaedel, six grandchildren and their families including ten great grandchildren.
Dwayne entered heaven into the presence of his Savior on September 7, 2025.
A Service of Celebration and Worship will be held at Grace Baptist Church, 109 N. Main St, Cedarville, OH 12:00 on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Visitation with family from 10:00-11:30.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice House, 3450 Lakeland, FL 33805, or to Cedarville University, 251 N. Main St, Cedarville, OH 45314.
Pamela L. Skudlarek, age 61, of Lake Alfred, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.Pamela was born on January 26, 1964, to Paul Salyers and Carol F. Carver. She was the heart and voice of RS Reliable Services, where her kindness and dedication touched many. Above all else, Pamela was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished daughter, and loyal sister.Pamela enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, sharing her love of cooking with family and friends, and finding joy in every gathering. She enjoyed attending the First Baptist Church of Lake Alfred.
Pamela is survived by her mother, Carol F. Carver; her husband, Richard Skudlarek; her sons, Thomas Skudlarek and Kevin Skudlarek; and her daughter, Sara Skudlarek. She also leaves behind extended family and friends who will forever treasure her memory.Pamela will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and unwavering love. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, and she will remain forever in our hearts.“She is clothed with strength and dignity; She can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31: 25-26
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of food, drinks, and fun at the Central Florida Food Fest, happening Friday, October 18 from 5–9 PM at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland!
Presented in partnership with Visit Central Florida, this 21+ ticketed event offers an array of mouthwatering bites and craft sips from top local restaurants, all priced between $7–$10. Enjoy live music, a lively artisan market, and exclusive specials throughout the night.
Perks include a welcome drink on arrival, and the first 100 ticket holders will score a free wine tasting!
Whether you’re coming for the flavors, the vibes, or the cause—supporting the beautiful Bonnet Springs Park—you won’t want to miss it. Note: the park will be closed to the public during the event.
The Chain of Lakes Trail Pedestrian Bridge will be temporarily closed for maintenance from 8 AM to 4 PM, starting Monday, September 15, 2025, and continuing for one week.
The bridge will reopen each evening after 4 PM for public use. For your safety, please do not move or bypass barricades during closure hours.
This temporary closure is necessary to clean and clear the bridge for continued safe use. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this time. Thank you for helping keep Lake Alfred’s trails clean and safe!
Professional Engineering Services Approved for Lake Marion Boat Ramp
by James Coulter
A larger boat ramping with more parking spaces and better maneuverability will be coming soon to Lake Marion now that Polk County commissioners have approved engineering services.
At their regular meeting on Tues. Sept. 2, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to approve a consultant services agreement Dewberry Engineers Inc. to provide proffesional engineering services for a boat ramp at Lake Marion.
Located northwest of Lake Hatchineha, Lake Marion currently has public boat launching access on the southwest side of the lake; however, a larger ramp has been proposed for the northeast side.
“Parking and maneuverability are limited,” the agenda item explained. “Additionally, the current launching facility is located off a 90-degree corner along Jim Edwards Road, making it difficult to safely back into the facility due to passing traffic.”
The proposed boat launch area will provide “a larger boat launching facility with ample parking, better maneuverability, and safer year-round access.”
The engineering agreement would permit Dewberry Engineers to provide “permits, construction plans and specifications for a boat ramp, dock, access road and parking facilities for boat launching.”
Funding for the proposed ramp is available in the Parks and Natural Resources CIP within the East Park Impact Fee District Fund and Lake and River Enhancement Trust Fund.
County Manager Bill Beasley stated that he and County Staff will be seeking state and federal grants to cover the cost of the project’s construction.
“The logic behind that is that the state looks for shovel-ready projects,” he said. “If we can pay for that design, we can get that project shovel ready, then I think we get a higher priority from the state because now the project is ready to go. The state wants their money spent quickly, and it’s not though the planning or design process.”
Once the new ramp is complete, the old ramp will be decommissioned, as the new ramp will provide better parking, a more stabilized area, and it will allow for more people to access the lake, explained Gaye Sharpe, Director, Parks & Natural Resources Division.
