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Welcome, World Travelers! JC’s Return Trip to Polk County, Days 3 and 4 (Lakeland)

by James Coulter

One year passed since I moved out of Polk County. Recently, my editors were kind enough to finance a business trip allowing me to return to the county and visit for a week. These are some of the highlights of my trip.

Sat. Apr. 5 and Sun, Apr. 6, 2025 (Lakeland)

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It was the weekend of Rockin’ on the Chain in Winter Haven and PreHistoricon in Mulberry. I already wrote articles on both events, so read those for more information.

Instead, I’m going to be sharing what I did in Lakeland on both days.

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After covering both events, I drove to Munn Park in Lakeland for dinner at The Joinery. Took me a while to find a parking space. That evening must have been prom or homecoming, as there were a lot of high school students dressed in fancy clothes. Finally found a parking space several blocks away. It allowed me to stroll through Downtown Lakeland, so that was a plus for me.

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I went to The Joinery twice that weekend. Had a bowl of ramen both times at Sabu Ramen. The first night, I had pork tonkatsu with chili sauce. The next night, spicy miso with marinated egg and extra spicy sauce. (Because you know me: I love my spicy food!)

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I met the woman who runs the food stall. She remembered me from long ago. She was worried that I had stopped coming because I thought the food was terrible. On the contrary, it was because I was forced to move out of town. Otherwise, I would still be a regular customer.

I told her that, of all the ramen places I’ve ever eaten at, none of them have come close to serving ramen as good, if not better, than Sabu Ramen. She thanked me and told me the reason was most likely because they made all of their ingredients homemade. Even their broth are made fresh from scratch, most other places make theirs from powder. (Yup! That sounds about right.)

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On Sunday, I visited Bonnet Springs Park. Hard to believe there’s an entire park in the middle of Lakeland the size of Magic Kingdom. (Bonnet Springs is 168 acres, while MK is only 107.) It’s almost like Central Park in New York City only without the zoo.

However, Bonnet Springs Park has a lot to do, and most all of it is free! Several dozen playgrounds. Outdoor workout equipment. Slides built into the side of hills. Play rivers where you can pump your own water. A treehouse with a slide built into it. And several beautiful trails to walk: one that goes through the wetlands, and another that goes high into the trees.

It’s a pity more cities don’t have similar places to visit. A place people can go to escape the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy and get lost in the tranquility of nature, and where they can enjoy diverse activities that don’t cost a dime. You can even hop a free tram from one side of the park to the other. I wish there was a similar place up in Virginia. I know my great-nephew and niece would love it.

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Two Lakeland Men Die After U.S. 98 Crash Near Home Depot

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Lakeland, FL – A tragic crash earlier this week has claimed the lives of two Lakeland residents following a serious collision near the Home Depot on U.S. Highway 98 North.

The accident occurred on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, just after noon. At approximately 12:09 p.m., officers with the Lakeland Police Department responded to reports of a traffic crash in the 2800 block of U.S. 98 North, near the entrance to the Home Depot parking lot.

According to the preliminary investigation, a 2012 silver Toyota Camry, driven by 71-year-old Willie Williams of Lakeland, was exiting the Home Depot parking lot and attempting to turn left across traffic. At that same moment, a 2003 silver Porsche 911, operated by 67-year-old Craig Jensen, also of Lakeland, was traveling northbound in the inside lane of U.S. 98.

As the Toyota entered the roadway, it collided with the Porsche. The front left bumper of the Toyota struck the front right bumper of the Porsche, resulting in significant damage to both vehicles.

Emergency personnel from the Lakeland Police Department, Polk County Fire Rescue, and the Lakeland Fire Department quickly arrived on scene and began life-saving efforts. Both drivers were transported to Lakeland Regional Health with serious injuries.

Sadly, despite the efforts of medical professionals, both drivers later died as a result of their injuries. Willie Williams passed away on May 2, and Craig Jensen succumbed to his injuries on May 3.

The Lakeland Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and is continuing the investigation. The northbound lanes of U.S. 98 were closed for approximately two hours on Tuesday afternoon while investigators processed the crash site.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Officer Travis Payne at [email protected].

This is a developing story and remains under active investigation.

Mental Health Leaders, Survivors Inspire & Discuss Current Challenges At Polk County Behavioral Health Summit

Bartow, Fla. (May 2, 2025) — Polk County’s Health and Human Services Division partnered with Polk Vision to host the second annual Conversations in Behavioral Health Summit on Thursday. More than 230 parents, mental health professionals and residents attended the summit.

“I can’t think of a better way to kick off Mental Health Awareness Month than with an event about the power of hope and healing,” said Holly Vida, Behavioral Health Program Manager for Polk County. “I’m thankful to all of our speakers who shared their experiences with mental health struggles and to the professionals who participated in helping to make the day a tremendous success.”

The day’s presenters included:

  • Johnny Crowder, founder of Cope Notes® and suicide/abuse survivor
  • Anthony Alvarado, founder of RISE TOGETHER and an advocate for mental wellness
  • Trish Kendall, a trauma and addiction survivor
  • Fred Heid, Polk County Public Schools superintendent
  • Ellen Snelling, M.S., public health advocate, educator and policy leader
  • Risdon Slate, Ph.D., professor emeritus of criminology for Florida Southern College

Community health care partners, including nonprofit and mental health organizations as well as Polk HealthCare Plan representatives also attended. Event participants had the opportunity to network with the organizations and learn about available resources in between speakers.

Fred Heid, Polk County Public Schools superintendent

This event was funded by the Polk County Government and a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Haines City: Huffman Sworn in as Commissioner; Arroyo Bids Farewell as Mayor

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BY ANITA TODD

HAINES CITY – The City of Haines City’s City Hall Commission Chambers were nearly at capacity during the May 1 meeting. Many attendees came to witness the swearing-in of newly re-elected Commissioner Anne Huffman, while others were there to express gratitude and bid farewell to outgoing Mayor Omar Arroyo.

Anne Huffman was re-elected on April 30 in a runoff election, defeating challenger Horace West for Seat 5. Huffman secured 1,110 votes, accounting for 53.4 percent of the total, while West received 969 votes, or 46.6 percent.

The front of the room was filled with Huffman’s friends, family, and other well-wishers as she was sworn in. After taking the oath, she described the win as a victory for the entire city.

“We won. Not Anne Huffman won. We the City won,” she said. “Now is the time to bring the Oakland community … to unify it because it was definitely divided. Not the rest of the City. I’ve already reached out to the ones who did not vote for me, to meet with me. I hope we can set aside any personal differences and come together for the good of the entire City.”

Last summer, Huffman received a heart transplant following a heart attack.

“With this new heart — my donor was 35. I’m 64, so it was like putting a race car engine into a Volkswagon,” she said.

She encouraged residents to come to her. She said, “Your concerns, are my concerns.”

Arroyo spoke briefly about his year serving as mayor.

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“I’m sad but I’m happy too. It was a privilege and an honor. I want to thank my family, and, of course, God. He’s the one who is going to put me where He wants me,” Arroyo said. “Please call me if I make a mistake, otherwise I won’t know.”

The five City Commission seats each carry a four-year term. Every year, the commissioners elect a new mayor and vice mayor. The Commission meets at 7 p.m. every first and third Thursday of the month in the City Hall Commission Chambers.

ADVERTISEMENT OF SALE

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Notice is hereby given that Lake Wales Storage intends to sell the property described below to enforce a lien under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Statutes (section 83.80-83.809). The owner will sell at public auction on or after May 15,2025 at 10:00 am at storageauctions.com 

Units belonging to the following:

Shavonski Rahett /UNIT #218

This sale will be continued on such succeeding sale days thereafter as may be necessary to be completed. *Unless otherwise noted units contain household items. 

Prom Night Chaos: Gunfire Breaks Out at Packed Gathering in Davenport

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Update to: EARLY MORNING SHOOTING IN DAVENPORT LEAVES TWO INJURED, INVESTIGATION ONGOING

At 3:38 a.m. on Sunday, May 4, 2025, PCSO received 911 calls reporting a shooting that occurred outside on Famagusta Drive in Davenport. At least one caller reported a group of males who were fighting and then began shooting at each other. The first responding deputies observed several people running and/or driving away from the scene. There were over 100 people and several vehicles at the scene. A perimeter was quickly established. Deputies quickly learned that one victim was taken to a local hospital by friends, and detectives responded there to interview him. Another victim was located at the scene. Both had non-life-threatening injuries. Later that day a third victim was located and all three were interviewed.

 

During the investigation it was learned that several schools in the Orlando area held annual proms the evening of May 3rd, and subsequent prom after-parties ensued in Osceola County at various Air BNBs. The parties were shut down by law enforcement in that county, and the revelers relocated to a Wawa on Osceola Polk Line Road. The store personnel told the crowd they were contacting law enforcement, at which time the crowd moved to the condo parking lot on Famagusta Drive, playing loud music from their vehicles and blocking the roads. Many of the condos in this complex are short-term rentals.

 

According to the three injured victims, they were seated in a parked car at the scene and heard several males arguing, then heard gunfire. One victim, a 17-year-old female, received a graze wound to the forehead, and she was treated and released from the hospital. One victim, an 18-year-old male, received a graze wound to the shoulder and forehead. One victim had debris (not believed to be a bullet or bullet fragments) in his eye – he will be 18 in two weeks. The two male victims are still being treated at local hospitals. They are not believed to have been targeted by any shooters and were likely injured due to being in the crossfire.

This investigation is ongoing. We encourage anyone with information to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 863-298-6200 or anonymously reach out to Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPSor vial their mobile app.

Early Morning Shooting in Davenport Leaves Two Injured, Investigation Ongoing

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Davenport, FL – A chaotic scene unfolded in the early morning hours of Sunday, May 4, after gunfire erupted during a reported fight on Famagusta Drive in Davenport.

According to Carrie Horstman, Public Information Officer with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the neighborhood around 3:38 a.m. following multiple 911 calls. At least one caller reported a group of males fighting, which escalated into a shooting.

When deputies arrived on scene, they witnessed several individuals either fleeing on foot or driving away. A perimeter was quickly set up as law enforcement worked to secure the area and identify those involved.

Two male victims have been confirmed with non-life-threatening injuries—one transported to a local hospital by a friend or relative, and another found at the scene. Detectives responded to the hospital to gather statements and continue their investigation.

Authorities believe the incident may have followed a loud gathering or party, and that the individuals involved are likely young men in their late teens or early 20s.

The investigation is still active, and detectives are working to locate and interview additional witnesses. No further victims have been identified at this time. More updates are expected as the case develops.

Pedestrian Struck On Dundee Rd Succumbs To Injuries

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The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit was called to investigate a traffic fatality on Friday evening, May 2, 2025, regarding a pedestrian who was hit by a car in the middle of the road.

Around 10:45 p.m. the PCSO ECC received a 911 call from the 900 block of Dundee Road in Dundee. The 41-year-old driver of a 2004 Buick sedan was heading east on Dundee Road and entered the right turn lane to head south on U.S. Hwy 27 as the pedestrian, a Dundee man, was walking north and crossing the southbound lane. There was a to-go bag of food located near him after the incident. The driver of the car initially did not know what he had hit, but he pulled over, saw the victim and the blood on his vehicle, and immediately called 911.


Despite life-saving efforts at a local hospital, the pedestrian succumbed to his injuries around 4:40 a.m. this morning. His next of kin has not yet been notified.

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Emergency crews responded late Friday night to a serious vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision on Dundee Road near U.S. Highway 27 in Dundee.

The incident occurred around 10:44 p.m., prompting a swift response from both Dundee Fire Rescue and Polk County Fire Rescue. Upon arrival, first responders located a pedestrian who had been struck by a vehicle along the roadway.

Due to the severity of the injuries, the pedestrian was quickly stabilized on scene and transported to the nearby Winn-Dixie parking lot, where a medical helicopter air evacuation is taking place. As of this time, the identity and condition of the pedestrian have not been released.

The roadway remains partially blocked as emergency crews continue to work the scene and law enforcement initiates a traffic investigation. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes if possible.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Polk Deputy Knocked Down by Loose Bull in Lakeland, Expected to Be Okay

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A Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputy was injured Friday evening after being knocked down by a loose longhorn bull running through a busy Lakeland intersection.

According to Carrie Horstman, Public Information Officer with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened just after 5:28 p.m. near the intersection of Combee Road South and Crystal Lake Drive North. That’s when deputies were called out after drivers reported a “cow” — later confirmed to be a bull — running in and out of traffic, causing a safety concern for both vehicles and pedestrians.

The first deputy to arrive spotted the bull and called for backup. Just a minute later, the second responding unit radioed in with a concerning update: the initial deputy had been knocked down by the bull, hit his head, and was possibly unconscious.

The deputy was taken by ground to Lakeland Regional Health for treatment. Fortunately, officials say he is expected to be okay.

Deputies were able to locate the bull’s owner, and with some help, the animal was eventually secured in a nearby pasture behind the Dollar General in the area.

The quick response from law enforcement and first responders, the situation was brought under control without further incident.

Florida Executed Killer Tonight Who Shot Sleeping Children & Mother At Point-Blank Range

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Jeffrey Glenn Hutchinson, a 62-year-old Gulf War veteran, was executed by lethal injection at Florida State Prison in Raiford at 8:14 p.m. Eastern Time on May 1, 2025. His execution concludes a decades-long legal process following his conviction for the 1998 shotgun murders of his live-in girlfriend, Renee Flaherty, and her three young children: Geoffrey (9), Amanda (7), and Logan (4).

The tragic events unfolded on the night of September 11, 1998, in Crestview, Florida. After an argument with Flaherty, Hutchinson left their shared home and visited a local bar, where he consumed beer and expressed frustration about the dispute. Approximately 40 minutes later, a 911 call was placed from their residence. The caller stated, “I just shot my family,” a voice that two of Hutchinson’s close friends later identified as his. Upon arrival, deputies found Hutchinson in the garage with the phone still connected to 911. Inside the home, Flaherty and her two younger children were found shot in the master bedroom, while Geoffrey was discovered in the living room, having sustained two gunshot wounds. The murder weapon, a Mossberg 12-gauge pistol-grip shotgun registered to Hutchinson, was found on the kitchen counter. Gunshot residue was present on Hutchinson’s hands, and tissue from one of the victims was found on his leg.

During his 2001 trial, Hutchinson claimed that two masked intruders were responsible for the killings, asserting that he struggled with them before they fled. However, the jury found him guilty of four counts of first-degree murder. He received a life sentence for Flaherty’s murder and three death sentences for the murders of the children. The court cited the particularly heinous nature of Geoffrey’s death, noting that the child was conscious and attempted to defend himself before being fatally shot.

Hutchinson’s defense team presented evidence of his mental health struggles, including Gulf War illness and post-traumatic stress disorder, arguing that these conditions impaired his judgment. Despite these claims, multiple appeals were denied over the years, with courts consistently finding him mentally competent and upholding the original sentences. His final appeal was rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court shortly before his execution.

At the time of execution, Hutchinson declined to make a final statement. Witnesses reported that he appeared to mumble and experienced body spasms during the procedure, which lasted over 15 minutes.

This execution marks the fourth carried out in Florida in 2025 under death warrants signed by Governor Ron DeSantis.