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Top 6 Hot Things to Check Out This Summer at Disney World

Allison
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Top 6 Hot Things to Check Out This Summer at Disney World

Top 6 Hot Things to Check Out This Summer at Disney World
by James Coulter
 
Summer’s here, and no place captures the magic of a summer vacation quite like Walt Disney World. The classics are still as beloved as ever, but this year the parks are turning the excitement up to eleven.
 
From a wild, wacky thrill ride powered by a rockin’ soundtrack to a high‑flying, coast‑to‑coast adventure across America, these are the six hottest new Disney World additions you won’t want to miss this summer.

#1: Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets

Where: Disney’s Hollywood Studios

When: Opening date May 26, 2026

Aerosmith may have taken their last bow at Rock n’ Roller Coaster, but now it’s time to raise the curtains, light the lights, and get things started with the newest act taking the stage: The Muppets! Rock out with the Electric Mayhem as they rush through rush hour to get to their big concert across town—and they only have a minute and a half to get there!

Aside from the iconic Muppet band, guests will also be able to see Scooter in the recording booth, “brought to life using motion‑capture technology of Scooter the Muppet,” as reported by Disney Parks Blog. (Yes, through the magic of Disney Imagineering, the animatronic figure looks, moves, and emotes exactly like a puppet!)

Guests can also spy several other Muppet easter eggs throughout the queue, including the old Muppet Mobile Labs vehicle in the parking garage and pizza boxes from the former PizzeRizzo eatery.

And, of course, what Muppets experience would be complete without the cranky hecklers Statler and Waldorf? The two will be making quips at riders at the very end—and both are portrayed using their old animatronics from MuppetVision 3D!

#2: Soarin’ Across America

Where: The Land Pavilion at Epcot

When: Opening date May 26, 2026

America is celebrating its 250th birthday this year—and what better way to commemorate the occasion than with a high-flying adventure from sea to shining sea?

Yes, Soarin took guests over California and around the world. Now, the fan-favorite ride will be taking guests through spacious skies, across amber waves of grain, and over purple mountains majesties.

Come face-to-face with the great American presidents at Mount Rushmore, take a grand gander at the Grand Canyon, and take a patriotic view of our nation’s capital—along with more than a dozen other breathtaking locations across America the Beautiful!

#3: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run with The Mandalorian and Grogu

Where: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

When: Opening date May 22, 2026

You’ve seen them on television. You can catch them in the theaters. And now you can embark with them in an action-packed adventure on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.

Join the Mandalorian and Grogu as the bounty hunter duo set off on their latest mission. As Disney Parks Blog reports, “Hondo Ohnaka has caught wind of a high-stakes deal unfolding on the sands of Tatooine, where ex-Imperial officers have crossed paths with a ruthless band of pirates.”

Of course, they’ll need all the help they can get, and you can gladly lend them your help by taking control of the Millennium Falcon and setting course to iconic Star Wars locations, “including the cloud city of Bespin, the shattered remains of the second Death Star near Endor, or the towering cityscape of the galactic capital, Coruscant.”

#4: Magic of Disney Animation

Where: Disney’s Hollywood Studios

When: Opening date May 26, 2026

Disney remains famous for its beloved animation. Now, guests will be able to see how their favorite animated characters are brought to life with the Magic of Disney Animation.

This new animation-inspired experience is set inside a building designed to look like Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California—including Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat topping the building!

With the help of favorite Disney characters, guests will learn how their favorite animated movies are made through every step of the animation process. They’ll even be able to take a hand at drawing their own character sketch, and even meet some beloved animated characters.

Of course, this magical experience begins even before guests set foot inside the building. In the courtyard surrounding the attraction (inspired by the architecture and atmosphere of the legendary campus), guests can spot a few Disney characters and hear remixes of classic Disney tunes playing over the sound system.

#5: Jessie’s Roundup

Where: The Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland at the Magic Kingdom

When: Opening date May 26, 2026

Yee-Haw! Get along, little doggies, and get ready for a rip-roaring time with your favorite Toy Story pals at Jessie’s Roundup.

This summer only—and just in time for Toy Story 5—Jessie, Woody, and their other Toy Story pals will be taking over the Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom for some wild west fun.

Not only will guests be able to see these characters perform in several shows, but young guests can try their little hands at other fun and games, including cornhole, horseshoes, and even some really big building blocks.

#6: Bluey’s Wild World

Where: Conservation Station at Animal Kingdom

When: Opening date May 26, 2026

Everyone’s favorite blue heeler is arriving from down under for some wild and wacky fun at Animal Kingdom.

Hop aboard the Wildlife Express Train to Conservation Station, where guests will not only be able to meet Bluey and her little sister Bingo, but also partake in their family’s favorite games from Keepy Uppy to the Magic Asparagus.

Of course, the rambunctious blue heelers won’t be the only animals from Australia there. Guests can then jump over to Jumpin Junction to see other Australian animals like kangaroos and wallabies in this new, shared habitat.

Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation Places 98th AED at The U Salon Through Pay It Forward Sponsorship by Emergency Fix

Jody
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Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation Places 98th AED at The U Salon Through Pay It Forward Sponsorship by Emergency Fix

The Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF) has reached another milestone in its mission to help save lives, donating its 98th automated external defibrillator (AED) to The U Salon LLC in Winter Haven.

The AED was made possible through a “Pay It Forward” sponsorship from Dr. Tonya Bolton, owner and medical director of Emergency Fix. The placement brought together CCF volunteers, Emergency Fix staff, family, friends, and employees from The U Salon for an evening focused on cardiac awareness, CPR education, and emergency preparedness.

Dr. Bolton, a board-certified emergency physician, said her decision to support the foundation was driven by both her professional experience and a deeply personal journey.

“Supporting the Pay It Forward program was an easy decision for me. As an emergency physician, I have personally witnessed lives saved because an AED was available when seconds mattered. Having also experienced my own cardiac emergency, this mission has become even more personal.”

Dr. Bolton has been a physician since graduating from medical school in 2011. After earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida in 2007, she joined the U.S. Navy through the Health Professions Scholarship Program, which funded her medical education at Nova Southeastern University. She served as a physician in the Navy until 2019 before completing her Emergency Medicine residency through Emory University. Today, she serves as Medical Director of the Emergency Department at AdventHealth Lake Wales while also operating Emergency Fix, which she opened in Winter Haven in 2022.

She said opening Emergency Fix gave her an opportunity to reconnect with her hometown while continuing her passion for serving others.

The U Salon was selected as the recipient because of the number of people it serves every day.

“The U Salon is a wonderful local business that welcomes people of all ages every single day. Emergencies don’t only happen in hospitals—they happen in salons, restaurants, churches, gyms, schools, and workplaces. Having an AED readily available in a place where our community gathers could truly save someone’s life.”

Dr. Bolton also said she wanted her sponsorship to have an impact beyond a single location.

“When I learned about the work the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation is doing, I wanted to do more than simply purchase an AED for one location. My hope was to also support their mission so they can continue placing AEDs throughout our community for those who may not otherwise be able to afford them.”

Foundation founder Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke said she first met Dr. Bolton in 2023 after receiving a gift certificate to Emergency Fix from her children. What began as a client relationship eventually grew into a friendship built on shared values and a desire to give back to the community.

A few months ago, Dr. Bolton contacted Culpepper about sponsoring an AED as part of her annual charitable giving, choosing to support the foundation’s efforts to increase heart awareness and expand access to lifesaving equipment throughout the community.

During the presentation, Melanie shared the story behind the foundation, which she established in honor of her late fiancé, Michael Culpepper, who passed away from heart failure in July 2020. She explained how the foundation has transformed personal loss into a mission of placing AEDs throughout the community, providing CPR education, and awarding scholarships to future first responders.

The event also included a CPR and AED demonstration led by Winter Haven Fire Department paramedic Eric Shimkus, who volunteers his time to educate businesses and community members. The training also featured information on choking rescue devices, Narcan, and fire extinguishers, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for a variety of emergencies.

Dr. Bolton praised the training provided during the event.

“The demonstration was exceptional. Eric presented the information in a way that was both educational and approachable, making everyone feel comfortable and prepared.”

She added that even with her medical background, she appreciated the focus on preparing everyday people to respond in an emergency.

“Even though I am an emergency physician and have experience using AEDs in clinical settings, I appreciated how the training focused on everyday people. The message was clear: you don’t have to be a healthcare professional to save a life.”

She also emphasized the value of hands-on education.

“The hands-on CPR practice and AED demonstration gave everyone the opportunity to build confidence, ask questions, and understand exactly what to do if they ever find themselves in an emergency. That kind of education is invaluable.”

Reflecting on the foundation’s work, Dr. Bolton praised Melanie and the organization’s impact.

“Melanie was actually one of my very first clients when I opened Emergency Fix. Over the years, I have had the privilege of watching her transform unimaginable personal tragedy into an incredible mission of hope.”

“The Culpepper Cardiac Foundation is doing so much more than placing AEDs. They are educating businesses, empowering communities through CPR training, and giving people the confidence to respond during a cardiac emergency. Their impact will undoubtedly save lives.”

She also recognized the dedication of everyone involved with the organization.

“Melanie and the entire CCF team are some of the most selfless people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. Their passion is contagious, and their dedication to serving our community is truly inspiring. It has been amazing to watch the foundation grow, and I have no doubt that its impact will continue to expand for years to come.”

As the foundation celebrates its 98th AED placement, Dr. Bolton hopes more businesses will consider preparing for cardiac emergencies.

“I would encourage every business owner to consider partnering with the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation. We spend so much time planning for things we hope never happen—fires, hurricanes, and other emergencies. A cardiac emergency deserves that same level of preparation.”

“You never expect someone to collapse from sudden cardiac arrest, but if it happens, having an AED nearby and people who are trained to respond can make all the difference.”

She concluded by thanking the foundation for its work and expressing her hope that the sponsorship will continue saving lives.

“I also want to sincerely thank Melanie, Eric, and the entire Culpepper Cardiac Foundation team for everything they do. They have created something truly special from a heartbreaking loss, and our community is safer because of their dedication.”

“It was an honor to support their mission. My hope is that our contribution helps place another AED exactly where it is needed most and, one day, helps save another life.”

With the addition of AED No. 98 at The U Salon, the Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation continues its mission of increasing access to lifesaving equipment throughout the community while promoting CPR education and emergency preparedness. The organization continues to place AEDs each month through community support, sponsorships, fundraising events, and donations, all while honoring Michael Culpepper’s legacy with its mission: “Saving Lives Matters.”

Man Fatally Struck by Train in Winter Haven Thursday Evening

Jody
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Man Fatally Struck by Train in Winter Haven Thursday Evening

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a death investigation after a man was fatally hit by a CSX train Thursday night, July 9, 2026.

Deputies were dispatched to the railroad tracks northeast of the intersection of 2nd Street North and 2nd Eloise Terrace in Winter Haven at approximately 8:20 p.m.

The victim, a 37-year-old man who appears to be homeless, was found deceased with blunt force trauma to his head, shoulder, and back.

The investigation determined that the CSX train departed from Auburndale and was traveling southbound towards Lake Wales at about 35 mph.

The train’s engineer saw the man walking southbound along the left side of the train tracks. The train’s horn was used to warn the man of the advancing train, but he continued to walk along the tracks and did not acknowledge the train.

An autopsy will be performed at a later date.

 Efforts are ongoing to locate and notify the next of kin. The investigation is ongoing. 

Sixth Street East Speed‑Hump Plan Prompts Residents to Push for Safety Measures on Avenue A

Jody
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Sixth Street East Speed‑Hump Plan Prompts Residents to Push for Safety Measures on Avenue A

Sixth Street East Speed‑Hump Plan Prompts Residents to Push for Safety Measures on Avenue A

by James Coulter

A plan to add speed humps on Sixth Street East in Wahneta has prompted residents to call for similar traffic‑calming measures on nearby Avenue A.

At their regular meeting on Tues. On July 7, 2026, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to approve several resolutions regarding the installation of speed humps on roads throughout the county.

The roads to have traffic calming devices installed are as follows:

  • One on Bay Boulevard North (West) in Lake Wales ($5,000)
  • Three on Eastside Drive South near Lakeland ($15,000)
  • Five on Pryor Road near Haines City ($25,000)
  • Three on Sixth Street East (Wahneta) near Winter Haven ($15,000)

The installation of these 12 speed humps is estimated to cost $60,000. Funding for these projects is available and budgeted within the County’s Transportation Millage Fund.

However, several Wahneta residents spoke during public comments to raise concerns about more pressing traffic issues on the adjacent Avenue A.

Many argued that frequent speeding and trailer‑truck traffic on the road pose a heightened risk to neighborhood children, especially those who walk to the nearby Wahneta Elementary School.

Residents Rosa Cabrera and Rosalinda Santillan, who live on the road, supported the Sixth Street humps but also urged the county to add them on Avenue A, citing speeding vehicles that endanger neighborhood children playing in the street.

Another resident, Ernest Oldaker, claimed that more drivers speed along Avenue A than on Sixth Street, with many vehicles allegedly speeding up to 80 mph.

“I really think it should be on Avenue A more than any other street,” he said. “I don’t know why we are wasting money on small streets when people go down that road 80mph. You are screaming for them to slow down, but they don’t slow down. A lot of times, it is the same vehicles. It’s not different people, but the same constant vehicles.”

Brittny Miller mentioned how she would often sit on her front porch and watch vehicles speeding up to 80mph, which proves especially problematic with children walking to and from school.

She pointed to other problems on Avenue A, including cars parked on the sidewalk. Often, she had to step into the road while walking her handicapped son to school because the sidewalk was blocked.

“We are putting in speed bumps instead of addressing the main issue on Avenue A,” she said. “I don’t think we need them [speed humps] on Sixth Street.”

Traffic Manager Amy J. Gregory, P.E., mentioned that she and her staff considered Avenue A several months ago, but that the road did not meet the criteria for traffic-calming devices.

Recent detours may have increased traffic and speeding in that area. Avenue A East at Fourth Street East has been closed daily for underground conduit work, pushing drivers onto Rifle Range Road and nearby neighborhood streets.

While many fatal and severe crashes have been reported in the broader Winter Haven area, there have been no publicly reported crashes or official traffic‑danger designations within that vicinity in recent months.

Wisconsin Woman Arrested at Orlando Airport While Attempting to Flee After Allegedly Striking Davenport Security Guard

Allison
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Wisconsin Woman Arrested at Orlando Airport While Attempting to Flee After Allegedly Striking Davenport Security Guard

A Wisconsin woman who was renting an AirBNB in Davenport and purposely hit the security guard at the condominium complex with her car was picked up at the Orlando Airport on a Polk County warrant for aggravated battery and aggravated assault as she tried to catch a flight back home.


On July 4, 2026, around 9:00 p.m. the PCSO was contacted by the victim, who works security at the Windsor Island Resort on Aloha Blvd. in Davenport. The victim reported that a woman driving a gray Chrysler Pacifica was attempting to enter the property when she was told by the guard at the entry gate that she needed to be on the list of approved visitors, or provide identification. The driver, who also had a female passenger in the car, asked “What are you going to do if I drive through?” at which point she was told this would not be a good idea. She then sped through the entry gates and proceeded to Lana Avenue.

The security guard got into his security patrol car and followed her. He asked her again for identification and to register her car as a visitor to the property, and she replied that he was “doing too much.” She also said she was renting an AirBNB there. As the security guard stood next to his patrol car, the suspect then asked twice, “You wanna get hit?” and drove into him, pinning his body between the passenger side of her vehicle and the driver’s side of his car, injuring him (fortunately not seriously) and damaging the equipment on his belt and the security patrol car. The suspect then fled the scene at a high rate of speed.

Detectives responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. They were able to positively identify the suspect as 32-year-old Tayquanna Butler, DOB 1/11/1994, of Green Bay, Wisconsin, and confirmed she was listed as a renter from July 2-6, 2026, within the resort.

Detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Butler with aggravated battery (F2) and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (F3). A check of her criminal record showed she has prior arrests in Wisconsin for disorderly conduct and domestic abuse.

PCSO detectives contacted the Orlando International Airport Police Department and confirmed Butler was scheduled to fly back to Wisconsin on July 7, 2026. Thanks to cooperation with the police department and TSA, when she arrived at check-in, she was successfully detained. She is currently in the Orange County Jail awaiting transfer to the Polk County Jail.

“You’re not going to come into Polk County and act the way you do back home, disobeying not just the laws of decorum but the laws of our state. All this woman had to do was show some ID and register her car at the resort where she was staying. Now she’s facing two felonies and is locked up in jail.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Lakeland Man Arrested After Being Accused of Exposing Himself to A 5 Year Old Child At Mulberry Walmart

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Man Arrested After Being Accused of Exposing Himself to A 5 Year Old Child At Mulberry Walmart

By Daily Ridge Staff

MULBERRY, Fla. – A Crime Stoppers tip led to the arrest Thursday of a Lakeland man accused of exposing himself to a 5-year-old girl inside the Mulberry Walmart earlier this week, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation began after the alleged incident on July 6. On Wednesday, the Sheriff’s Office released surveillance images and video through Crime Stoppers asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect.

According to investigators, an anonymous tip received Thursday identified the suspect as 62-year-old David Hicks of Lakeland. Detectives compared Hicks’ photograph with surveillance footage and determined he appeared to be the same individual seen in the video.

At approximately 1 p.m. Thursday, detectives went to Hicks’ Lakeland residence and took him into custody without incident.

The Sheriff’s Office said Hicks declined to speak with detectives following his arrest.

He has been charged with one count of indecent exposure, one count of lewd exhibition, and one count of exposure of sexual organs, all third-degree felonies.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Hicks has prior arrests in South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida dating back to 1991 involving allegations of indecent exposure. Investigators also said he was previously arrested in Georgia on child molestation charges in 1998. Those cases resulted in varying legal outcomes.

According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, David Hicks is the younger brother of Thomas Hicks, who was arrested during the Sheriff’s Office’s Operation Polk Around and Find Out/Operation Child Protector VIII. Thomas Hicks, who had portrayed Santa Claus at events in Lakeland for years, remains in the Polk County Jail facing multiple felony charges. Investigators noted the family relationship as part of David Hicks’ background but did not indicate the two cases are otherwise connected.

Authorities are asking anyone who believes they may have been a victim of David Hicks, or who may have witnessed similar incidents involving him, to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 863-298-6200.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office credited the anonymous Crime Stoppers tip with quickly identifying the suspect, leading to his arrest less than a day after investigators asked for the public’s assistance.

One Movie Later: The Mandalorian and Grogu’s Big Screen Debut is Not So Big

Allison
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One Movie Later: The Mandalorian and Grogu’s Big Screen Debut is Not So Big

One Movie Later: The Mandalorian and Grogu’s Big Screen Debut is Not So Big

by James Coulter

Seven years have passed since Star Wars last lit up movie screens. Disney once planned a full-blown cinematic universe, but after Solo crashed in 2018, the company retreated to its new streaming service. The shows that followed were hit or miss, but one clear standout emerged: The Mandalorian.

Spanning 24 episodes across three seasons, the story of a lone bounty hunter and his small green ward became the crown jewel of Disney’s Star Wars era. Now the studio hopes to bring that success back to theaters. But will Mando and Grogu make the hyperspace jump to the big screen? Or will their attempt fall short of “the way”?

Mando and his pint‑sized partner are back on the hunt, this time chasing an Imperial warlord who’s still tightening his grip long after the Empire’s fall. To reach him, Mando and Grogu must first track down Rotta, son of Jabba the Hutt and heir to the Hutt Clan. But when they find him, Rotta refuses to return home, determined to carve out a life beyond his family’s criminal legacy. Will Mando claim his bounty? Or will the galaxy’s many hazards claim it first?

Let’s cut to the chase: The Mandalorian and Grogu is a good…two to three episodes of a Disney+ streaming show packaged into a full-length movie.

Does that make the film good or bad?

Well, let’s discuss some of the good things about the movie first:

1. It’s a self-contained story. If you’re wondering whether you need to binge-watch the Disney+ show before watching this movie, the good news is that you don’t. No major plot points or narrative threads from the streaming series carry over into this film.

In fact, you don’t even need to have seen the show to follow the movie. All you need to know is that the movie stars a bounty hunter who’s essentially Boba Fett (without being Boba Fett) and his cute little Yoda look-alike. That’s it! No prior episode watching or re-watching required.

2. Nice use of practical effects. As with The Mandalorian and Disney’s other recent Star Wars projects, this film strikes an impressive balance between CGI and practical effects. Unlike the prequels’ overreliance on digital imagery, this movie uses practical work whenever it best serves the moment. Grogu remains a puppet—and remains charming because of it!—and the same is true for Babu Frik and his fellow pint‑sized Anzellan droidsmiths.

One standout action sequence even features giant robot droids animated through stop‑motion, blending tactile, old‑school models with modern live‑action filmmaking. Even better, the scene was crafted with help from Phil Tippett, the legendary VFX artist who pioneered the original trilogy’s stop‑motion work. That’s real dedication to the craft, right there!

3. Same great Star Wars action and adventure. What do you love about Star Wars? The high‑speed dogfights in space? The wild sci‑fi worlds? The imaginative aliens and creatures? The pew‑pew space lasers? The Mandalorian being a total boss? Grogu being an adorable little gremlin? Whatever your answer, this movie has it. It delivers everything Star Wars fans come for and then some. Even if the story and characters aren’t the strongest, it’s still as entertaining as any other Star Wars flick.

4. It’s better than The Rise of Skywalker. This Star Wars movie is better than the one written by the screenwriter behind Batman v. Superman. Then again, clearing the bar set by The Rise of Skywalker isn’t that great a feat. It’s not even a bar at this point: it’s the floor. Even Solo—the movie that flopped so badly Disney stopped making Star Wars films for years—looks better by comparison. The rabid fans who hate the Prequels hate those movies less than Rise of Skywalker. So yes, this movie is better in comparison. Congratulations, I guess!

If I sound flippant, it’s because this movie doesn’t really have much of anything else to offer. Like I said: it’s essentially two to three episodes of The Mandalorian packaged together as a single full-length film. The movie even has the same cinematic quality as the show—which either speaks volumes of that show’s production value or serves as a mark against this movie.

Are you a fan of The Mandalorian? Have you ever wanted to see him and Baby Yoda on the big screen? If so, you’ll probably enjoy this movie. Otherwise, if you’re not that big a fan, or you’ve never watched the show before, I’d recommend either waiting until this movie comes out on streaming or home media—or just skipping it altogether! At best, it’s a good matinee ticket, but not worth the full price of admission.

This is not the Star Wars cinematic comeback you’re looking for.

In Loving Memory of Priscilla Teresa Mincey, 78

Jody
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In Loving Memory of Priscilla Teresa Mincey, 78

Priscilla Teresa Mincey

JULY 23, 1947 – JUNE 28, 2026

Priscilla Mincey, age 78, passed away on June 28, 2026. She was born on July 23, 1947.

Priscilla was a devoted wife to her beloved husband, the late Ernest Mincey. She was also a dedicated homemaker, creating a loving home and caring for her family.

She enjoyed going to the movies and bowling. Priscilla’s kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit touched the lives of those who knew her.

She is lovingly survived by her children, Lisa Mincey and Teresa Kistler; her siblings, Judy Orlando, and Joyce Caliva; her grandchildren, Ryan Mincey, Tyler Kistler, Jenna Kistler, Jordyn Kistler; and her son in law, Jeff Kistler. 

Her family will forever treasure the love, guidance, and memories she leaves behind. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love and dedication to her family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

City University (CityU) Now Accepting Applications for 2026 Class

Jody
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City University (CityU) Now Accepting Applications for 2026 Class

Ready to dive into how your City works? City University (CityU) is now accepting applications for the 2026 class!

This eight-session, behind-the-scenes program gives Winter Haven residents the opportunity to explore the ins and outs of local government. You’ll meet City Leaders, tour facilities, and learn how everything from public safety to budgeting, growth, and city planning happens.

Whether you’re curious, community-minded, or looking to get more involved, CityU is for YOU.

Here’s what to expect:
Learn how City services are funded.
Explore how and why city decisions are made.
Engage directly with City staff and leadership.
See various facilities.
Learn about day-to-day operations.
Be part of a growing network of informed citizens.
Celebrate your graduation at a City Commission meeting!

8 sessions | Tuesday evenings | FREE to attend | Dinner included.

Spots are limited and fill quickly! Apply Today: https://ow.ly/EQ6Z50ZkrQi

Info courtesy of City of Winter Haven

Lakeland Police Officer Charged With Grand Theft, Scheming to Defraud Following Internal Investigation

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Police Officer Charged With Grand Theft, Scheming to Defraud Following Internal Investigation

LAKELAND, FL (July 7, 2026) – On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, an arrest warrant was issued for 44-year-old Miguel Acevedo, following an investigation that determined he had falsified time slips for off-duty detail assignments. Acevedo was booked into the Polk County Jail without incident this afternoon and charged with: Grand Theft (F3) and Scheming to Defraud (F3). Immediately after being processed, Acevedo resigned his position from the Lakeland Police Department.

An internal investigation discovered discrepancies between Acevedo’s time slips and his location during periods of off-duty detail assignments. A criminal investigation was immediately ordered by Chief Sam Taylor to thoroughly review the matter. The investigation discovered that Acevedo showed a pattern of repeatedly representing he was present and working assigned details when electronic records showed otherwise. The investigation identified 54 separate incidents occurring between July 7, 2022, and May 26, 2026, in which Officer Acevedo either clocked into or out of assigned details while located outside the approved geographic boundaries of the worksite. These incidents resulted in approximately $1,046.50 in compensation being paid to Officer Acevedo for time associated with attendance discrepancies and location irregularities.

Chief Taylor noted, “Our officers are entrusted with serving the community with integrity, professionalism, and accountability. Maintaining the public’s trust requires every member of the Lakeland Police Department to meet the highest standards of conduct, both on and off duty. When an officer fails to uphold those standards, it is our responsibility to ensure they are held accountable.” 

Acevedo had been on administrative leave since the start of the investigation. He was paid an annual salary of $90,451. The arrest of Acevedo will still be subject to an administrative review.

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