Norman Lee Borror, 88, of Babson Park, FL, passed away November 13, 2025. He was born on June 17, 1937, at the family home in Delaware County, Indiana, to Claude E. and Dessie M. (Lett) Borror.
Norman served four years in the U.S. Army. He was a carpenter and painter by trade and he loved gardening, canning and playing card games.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Dessie; siblings, Lillian, Geraldine, Raymond, Ralph, and Harold; grandson Derrick Borror.
Norman is survived by his wife of 39 years, Penny Borror; children, Leanna (Wade) Hite, Tina Honn, Ken Borror, Luci (Alan) Warren, Mark Borror, step-daughters, Lisa Ellis, Tracey Leneave, Laurie (Mark) MacBeath; sixteen grandchildren, twenty five great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren
A routine traffic stop in Orange County turned into a major drug bust after troopers discovered 46 pounds of marijuana inside an SUV earlier this week.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the vehicle was first noticed at the intersection of Conroy Road and Vineland Road on Monday afternoon. Troopers said the driver made an improper left turn, crossed multiple lanes, and disrupted traffic, prompting the stop.
The driver, identified as 40-year-old Shuoliang Zhen, told troopers he didn’t have any identification and stated he was renting the SUV. Investigators noted that Zhen appeared visibly nervous, shaking and stuttering when answering questions. The passenger, 35-year-old Yi Wen Chen, sat rigidly and avoided eye contact.
A K-9 unit was brought in, and the dog alerted to the presence of narcotics. A search of the SUV uncovered three large boxes packed with vacuum-sealed bags, each holding about a pound of marijuana.
Both men were arrested on charges of cannabis possession and trafficking. Zhen is being held on a $30,500 bond, and Chen faces the same charges.
A Winter Haven man found himself back in custody after an incident that began shortly after he was bonded out of jail in Hillsborough County.
Deputies say 56-year-old Kevin Cole contacted his ex-girlfriend to bail him out, and she drove to Hillsborough County to secure his release. During the drive back toward Polk County, Cole’s behavior reportedly became erratic.
By the time they reached Davenport, his ex-girlfriend asked him to get out of the vehicle. When he refused, she pulled into a Circle K and called 911 for assistance.
Deputies responding to the scene say Cole began yelling profanities at them and refused to cooperate. His behavior led to him being taken into custody in Polk County.
Authorities noted the situation as an example of how quickly a second chance can be squandered when someone refuses to calm down or follow instructions.
Kids and teens ages 9-17 are invited to the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library for a two-class hands-on crochet series during fall break to learn how to make a fall-themed plush!
The classes are November 24th and 25th from 10-11:30 am, with the second class building on the skills from the first. Crocheters should know how to chain and do a single crochet already. All supplies will be provided for the project.
Registration is required and will open Monday, November 17th at 10 am. Registration is for both classes in the series.
Questions? Contact Cassie Walters-Shantal (863) 834-4294 or email [email protected]
Polk County Teachers Urge Approval of Property Tax Increase Voter Referendum to Fund Schools
by James Coulter
Nearly a dozen educators urged county commissioners to approve a property tax increase voter referendum to fund county schools.
At their regular meeting on Tues. Nov. 18, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to pass a resolution placing a proposed 1.0 mill. ad valorem tax increase on the ballot. The referendum will appear on the general election ballot on Nov. 3, 2026.
The School Board of Polk County has conditionally adopted a resolution to impose an additional 1.0 mill. annually on taxable property to help fund school operating purposes from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2031.
During public comments, several educators took to the podium to implore the commissioners to approve the referendum. Many spoke out against the low incomes and high expenses that other educators in the school system face.
“My salary has not been sufficient to keep up with inflation and the cost of living in Polk County,” said Laura Allgood, a veteran music educator.
Michael Hade, former teacher and head football coach, mentioned how many other educators have left Polk County to seek employment elsewhere because their salaries have proven insufficient to cover their basic expenses.
“Quality of life will be poorly impacted if we do not find a way to pay our teachers and educators,” he said. “You will not keep good educators here. They have other counties on the mind.”
Another former educator, Patrick Bentley, mentioned how many educators either work a part-time job or rely on their partners, spouses, or even roommates to help cover their expenses due to their low income as teachers.
“I have said goodbye to many of my colleagues because they cannot afford to continue working here,” he said.
Commissioner Michael Scott, whose wife is a former educator, averred that a property tax increase would not solve every problem in the public school system, claiming it would amount to a squirt gun trying to put out a wildfire; however, he insisted that it would be a step in the right direction.
“We should invest in the teachers and we should invest in the students,” he said. “We want to be world-class. We want to attract employers as much as we can.”
Commissioner Becky Troutman, as a former special education teacher, wished success for the referendum, as she expressed hope that the majority of county residents would vote in favor of it.
“I wish success,” she said. “If the voters know where the money is going, they will approve it. They want to see teachers stay and children get a good education.”
Commissioner Martha Santiago, as the mother of two teachers, insisted that fiscal responsibility was a motivation for both her and her fellow commissioners. She wanted the right information before approving such a measure, and now that she has that information, she wholeheartedly approves it.
“I support education, and I will vote for this,” she said.
Dundee, Florida- Residents are expected to fill Dundee Town Hall tonight as the Town Commission prepares for the second reading of a proposed ordinance that would move the next municipal election from April 2026 to November 2027 and extend the terms of three sitting officials by approximately eighteen months. The ordinance passed its first reading on October 28 with a unanimous 5 to 0 vote and must be approved again tonight in order to become binding.
The three officials whose terms would be extended under the proposal are Mayor Samuel Pennant, Vice Mayor Willie Quarles, and Commissioner Bertram Goddard. If adopted, the ordinance would delay the regularly scheduled April 2026 election to November of the following year.
Public opposition has intensified ahead of the vote. Former Mayor Joe Garrison, who had filed to run in the April 2026 election, recently held a rally at his grove located at 408 4th Street. Garrison is represented by Shutts and Bowen LLP, which sent a letter to the Town Attorney urging the commission to withdraw the ordinance. The letter argues that delaying the election and extending current terms without voter approval raises legal concerns and may conflict with state statutes governing municipal election procedures.
Citizens Defending Freedom has also urged residents to attend tonight’s meeting. CDF is a nonprofit organization that advocates for government transparency, citizen engagement, and oversight of local public policy decisions. Florida Faith Director Robert Goodman sent a message to residents outlining concerns about financial management, delayed audits, and the potential impact of postponing the election. Goodman wrote, “Your voice matters. Don’t allow local officials to extend their terms without voter consent. Stand up for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and accountability to Polk County voters in Dundee.” His message encourages voters to participate in public comment and make their position known to elected officials.
Additional residents have encouraged community involvement as well. Michelle Lee Thompson, who recently contacted the Supervisor of Elections regarding the first reading, posted a reminder to local residents about the importance of attending tonight’s meeting. She wrote that the second reading involves a significant decision about Dundee’s election schedule and that voter participation is important for keeping the community informed. Thompson referenced previous legal challenges in Florida involving election date changes and extended terms and encouraged residents to attend regardless of their position.
The suggestion to shift April municipal elections to November began earlier this year when Polk County Supervisor of Elections Melony Bell encouraged cities to consider aligning their election schedules. Bell has publicly stated that November elections reduce costs and increase turnout. There is no indication she intended for municipalities to extend the terms of sitting officials as part of that transition.
Several processes exist that could affect the outcome of the ordinance if it is adopted tonight. A legal challenge filed in circuit court could result in a temporary injunction that pauses the ordinance until a judge determines whether extending terms is permitted under state law and the Town Charter. The Florida Supervisor of Elections or the Florida Division of Elections may also issue advisory opinions regarding election procedures, and the Town Commission retains the ability to amend or withdraw the ordinance before final adoption. In addition, under Florida law, the Governor has the authority to remove elected municipal officials from office for misconduct, malfeasance, or violating the law. These possibilities do not indicate or predict any outcome, but represent forms of oversight that exist when municipal election matters are disputed.
Tonight’s meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. at Dundee Town Hall, 202 E Main Street. A public comment period is scheduled prior to the vote, and many residents plan to attend and address the commission.
The Daily Ridge will be present at the meeting and will provide updates as the situation develops.
Forget the outdated nutrition advice that told parents to skip whole milk. A growing body of research is turning that idea on its head, making it time to rethink what “healthy” means for growing kids.
For decades, families have been told low-fat milk is the best choice once children turn 2. However, those recommendations were largely based on data from adults, not children. Today’s evidence paints a different picture – one where whole milk supports kids’ growth, development and long-term health.
“Parents are often surprised to learn whole milk isn’t just safe – it’s beneficial,” said Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, nutrition consultant and spokesperson for Dairy Farmers of America.
“When we look at the latest research, whole milk provides the high-quality protein, healthy fats and essential nutrients kids need during key stages of development – without increasing risk for obesity or heart disease.”
With 13 essential nutrients and vitamins – including calcium, vitamin D and protein – real dairy milk is a simple, nutrient-dense staple. It’s also an easy addition to family favorites like Breakfast Cookies and Homemade Cream of Tomato Soup.
Here are five research-backed reasons to feel confident about choosing whole milk.
Whole milk is not associated with higher obesity rates. Multiple large-scale studies from “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,” the “International Journal of Obesity” and “Preventive Medicine Reports” show children who drink whole milk have lower or similar body fat levels compared to those drinking reduced-fat milk.
Whole milk does not increase risk of heart disease. According to “Advances in Nutrition,” whole milk does not increase cardiometabolic risk in kids; in fact, it’s associated with better vitamin D levels with no adverse effects on cholesterol or glucose.
It’s nutrient-dense and supports optimal growth. All types of milk, including whole, provide essential nutrients like calcium, protein and vitamins A and D- all critical for bone development and healthy growth in children, per “Nutrition Research Reviews.”
Kids like the taste – and that matters. Children often prefer the taste of whole milk over low-fat versions, according to the “Journal of Dairy Science,” which can lead to more consistent consumption.
Adults may benefit, too. Among adults, full-fat dairy is associated with greater satiety, improved blood sugar regulation and a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, according to a study published in “Nutrition & Metabolism,” helping reframe full-fat dairy as part of a balanced diet.
You are invited to sponsor and decorate a Christmas tree along our enchanting Christmas Tree Trail. It will be located at the Lake Alfred Public Library grass lot. Once it is complete, it will be open for the public to enjoy and cast their vote for their favorite tree!
Make sure to register as soon as possible; spots are limited!
Email the registration form to [email protected] to reserve your spot.
There is a $25 registration fee. Participants are responsible for their own lights and decorations. Contact the Parks and Rec office at 863-291-5272 for more information.
LAKELAND, Fla. – A powerful spirit of purpose and remembrance came together at Fletcher Park on Lake Bonny on Saturday, where community leaders, coaches, and nonprofit partners gathered to dedicate the park’s newest Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The installation of AED #79 held deep meaning for Dr. Evan Chambers, founder and CEO of the EMC L.O.V.E. Foundation, whose work continues to honor the legacy of his son, Evan Michael Chambers.
Honoring Evan Michael Chambers Through Action
Dr. Chambers established the EMC L.O.V.E. Foundation in 2016 after the sudden passing of his son from an undiagnosed heart condition. Through baseball clinics, tournaments, mentorship, and community outreach, the foundation helps young athletes build skills, character, and confidence — all while keeping Evan’s love of the sport alive.
The AED dedication was especially significant because it was placed on a field Evan knew well.
“Evan spent countless hours on that field … in the locker room … and his DNA is a part of that place,” Dr. Chambers shared. “To present this gift to the athletes at Fletcher Park is a great honor, and we know it will help spread awareness of the great work being done in our community.”
A Partnership Rooted in Shared Purpose
This AED was donated by the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation (CCF) and installed in partnership with the EMC L.O.V.E. Foundation and R2Cares, organizations that share a united mission of preventing cardiac deaths and expanding access to lifesaving equipment across Polk County.
Ronnie Richardson, a Tampa Bay Rays coach, former MLB player, and Polk County native (Lake Region High School/UCF), explained why R2Cares eagerly joined the effort:
“I grew up playing ball with Melanie’s sons, and our families go way back. When she reached out, it was an immediate yes. The Love Foundation’s work with youth baseball and Dr. Chambers’ commitment to Evan’s legacy align perfectly with our mission at R2Cares to strengthen minds and empower communities. Collaboration is everything.”
A Fitting Tribute on Evan’s Field
The placement took place during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Evan’s Legacy Baseball Classic Championship Game Day, a fitting tribute on the very field that now bears Evan’s name.
“This is about more than equipment – it’s about being prepared and protecting the lives of the young athletes, coaches, and families who play here,” said Melanie Brown Culpepper, founder of CCF. “Having an AED on site gives everyone a fighting chance in those critical first minutes of a cardiac emergency.”
The Coaches Who Will Use It Most
For local coaches who spend every day on the field with youth athletes, the donation is deeply meaningful.
Frank Taveras, JV Coach at Lake Bonny Fletcher Field for the past two years, expressed how impactful the donation is for his players and staff.
“We are thankful to have received this lifesaving AED and to have it available at our park,” Taveras said. “Thank you to the Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation, R2Cares, and the Chambers family for making this a reality for us.”
When asked about CCF and its team, he added: “We appreciate Melanie and the CCF for everything they do to make things like this possible. Thank you for supporting CCF, as saving lives truly matters.”
A Shared Message: Every Second Counts
The AED was dedicated in memory of Evan Michael Chambers and Michael Culpepper, honoring both families’ journeys and their shared commitment to saving lives. The ceremony also included a demonstration by certified AED/CPR instructors, reinforcing how critical quick action can be during cardiac emergencies.
Leading Through Love, Resilience, and Community
Dr. Chambers closed the ceremony with a message that resonated across the field.
“Being prepared, uniting around service — that’s what honors Evan’s life,” Dr. Chambers said. “Love and community are still the heartbeat of Polk County.”
Foundation Impact & Contact Information
Since its founding, Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation has placed at least two AEDs every month throughout Polk County and awards three annual scholarships to aspiring first responders (Fire, Medical, and EMT fields). The foundation relies entirely on community events, sponsors, and donations to continue its goal of “a defibrillator on every city block.”
For more information or to support the partnering organizations:
Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation: CulpepperAED.com
R2Cares: R2Cares.org
The Evan Michael Chambers LOVE Foundation: Contact through event organizers
As Ronnie Richardson closed the ceremony:
“When we turn pain into purpose and unite around service, we prove that love and community are still the heartbeat of Polk County.”
Looking for something fun for the kids to do after early dismissal? Bring them over to the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library on November 21 from 2:30–3:30 PM for an afternoon of creativity! Kids can make their very own sand art bottle, and all the materials will be provided—just bring plenty of imagination.
This monthly drop-in program, called Crafternoon, is designed for children ages 5–12 and takes place on Polk County Public Schools’ Early Dismissal Days. No registration is needed—simply stop in and enjoy the fun.
If you have any questions, reach out to Cassie Walters-Shantal at (863) 834-4294 or [email protected].
