Eight Speed Bumps Approved for Roads in Lakeland and Mulberry
by James Coulter
Lakeland and Mulberry residents will no longer have to worry about being disturbed by speeding vehicles now that speed bumps have been approved for installation on three roads.
At their regular meeting on Tues. Dec. 16, Polk County Commissioners voted unanimously to approve three ordinances authorizing the installation of the following:
⦁ Four speed bumps on Arizona Avenue in Lakeland for an estimated $20,000,
⦁ Two speed bumps on Jamestown Avenue in Lakeland for $10,000, and
⦁ Two speed bumps on Fox Creek Drive South in Mulberry for $10,000.
County staff determined the placement of these speed bumps after conducting traffic studies on each road and receiving a favorable vote from residents via distributed ballots.
Funding for all three projects is budgeted within the county’s Transportation Millage Fund.
Congratulations to Lieutenant Jason Perez on graduating as a member of the 296th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place earlier this month at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The program is considered one of the top advanced law enforcement academies in our county. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.
The 296th session consisted of 254 law enforcement officers from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 24 countries, four military organizations, and two federal civilian organizations. Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 11 weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.
“Lieutenant Jason Perez is a proven leader within our agency and deserving of this opportunity. He has a deep commitment to serving the citizens of Lakeland while ensuring the Lakeland Police Department operates at the highest level. I want to personally congratulate him on this accomplishment, and I am confident he will continue to provide valuable leadership and experience well into the future.” – Chief Sam Taylor.
Lieutenant Jason Perez was raised in Brooklyn, New York, and began his career with the Lakeland Police Department in December 2003. Throughout his service, he has worked in Uniform Patrol, the Special Investigations Section, the Violent Crimes Unit, and the Special Victims Unit. In 2014, he was promoted to Sergeant and later returned to Patrol for two years before rejoining the Criminal Investigation Division, where he served as a supervisor over the Property Crimes Unit, Special Victims Unit, and Violent Crimes Unit. Lieutenant Perez earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in 2017. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2021 and assigned to the Uniform Patrol Division, later transferring in 2024 to the Special Investigations Division, where he currently serves as Officer in Charge.
A total of 56,688 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.
A Davenport man died Monday morning after suffering a medical emergency while driving on U.S. 27, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 8:30 a.m. on December 29, 2025. Troopers said a 64-year-old man was driving a Nissan Altima northbound on U.S. 27 south of Bates Road when he experienced a medical emergency and lost control of the vehicle.
The Altima departed the roadway, struck several scrubs, and became partially submerged in a marsh area adjacent to the highway.
The driver was transported to an area hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The incident remains under investigation. Information was provided by FHP Public Affairs Officer Sgt. Steve Gaskins.
Families are invited to ring in the New Year a little early at a fun-filled Noon Year’s Eve Celebration happening next Wednesday at the Mulberry Civic Center.
The event will take place on December 31 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:05 p.m. and will feature a festive lineup of games, activities, and a special ball drop at noon, making it perfect for kids and families who want to celebrate without staying up late.
Adding to the excitement, the celebration welcomes Dog Man and Cat Kid, bringing a playful and energetic theme to help kick off 2026 in a memorable way.
Mark your calendars and join the community for a joyful midday countdown filled with fun, laughter, and New Year cheer.
Brr! Did anyone in Florida catch that cold front? Because we sure did here in Virginia. The thermometer dipped to 17 degrees—yes, that’s well below water’s freezing point of 32.
It’s been cold enough to snow twice already. And while snow might look magical to those who’ve never lived with it, trust me: it’s a lot less charming when you’re shivering through it.
To fight the chill, I’ve been preparing warm soups and stews. But with holiday shopping and bills emptying my wallet, I’ve had to get creative with budget‑friendly meals.
Enter: Hoover Stew. This Depression-era meal was created for tough times. It’s a simple, cheap recipe that uses simple, cheap ingredients—macaroni, beans, tomatoes, and hot dogs all simmered together.
I gave mine a little upgrade with spices easily found in any pantry—salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. The result? Think pasta fagioli, but swap the Italian sausage for hot dogs.
It’s humble, hearty, and exactly what you need when the weather’s biting and the budget’s tight. Give it a try on your next chilly night—though if you’re in Florida, that might just mean something similar to a fall day up here.
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Hoover Stew (from Recipes for Hard Times, Depression Era Recipes & Others on Facebook)
Ingredients
• 12 ounces elbow macaroni or other pasta
• 1 package sliced hot dogs (approx. 8 hot dogs)
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) stewed or diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15.5 oz each) pinto or other beans
• 1 can (15.5 oz each) corn or green beans (optional)
Optional Spices
• 2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. oregano
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the macaroni in boiling water until almost al dente.
2. Drain pasta and set aside in a strainer.
3. Cook the sliced hot dogs until brown.
4. Stir in stewed tomatoes and beans.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and other spices if desired.
6. Add drained pasta and simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all ingredients are heated through.
A Davenport man has been sentenced to five years in state prison in connection with a fatal traffic crash that occurred more than a year ago along U.S. 27.
Court records show Paul Castellano – Aponte was sentenced to 60 months in prison after entering a plea to felony vehicular homicide, a second-degree felony. The sentence was imposed on December 12, 2025, in Polk County Circuit Court. Castellano was remanded into custody following sentencing, with credit for time already served.
Castellano was arrested following a November 3, 2024 crash investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. The collision occurred at approximately 8:30 a.m. on U.S. Highway 27 near Potters Road in Davenport and resulted in the death of Donald Shelby Wright.
According to the arrest affidavit, investigators determined Castellano was driving a 2018 Mazda southbound on U.S. 27 when he struck a Ford Ecosport that was attempting to make a left turn across the highway. The crash occurred in a congested area with multiple lanes of travel, a traffic signal, and nearby commercial and recreational activity. Data recovered from the Mazda’s airbag control module showed the vehicle was traveling 101 miles per hour approximately 1.5 seconds before impact and 100 miles per hour at the time the brakes were applied, nearly double the posted 55 mph speed limit. Castellano’s vehicle hit Wrights car at 71 miles per hour.
Witnesses had reported Castellano weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and passing multiple vehicles in the moments leading up to the crash. Investigators concluded the excessive speed and reckless driving left the other driver with no reasonable opportunity to avoid the collision.
The affidavit states Wright suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to Osceola Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased. Wright was a Vietnam Veteran. Wright and his wife Patricia had lived in Davenport since 2005.
Castellano told investigators he had worked an overnight shift and was driving home at the time of the crash. He denied alcohol or drug use, and detectives noted no signs of impairment during their investigation. The case ultimately centered on speed, roadway conditions, and driving behavior rather than impairment.
The PCSO Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating a crash involving a scooter that resulted in the death of a driver. The crash occurred at approximately 6:12 p.m. on Thursday, December 25, 2025, on U.S. 27 near Jacks Road in Davenport.
According to evidence and witness statements, a 2019 Tao Scooter was in the 7/11 parking lot located on the east side of U.S. 27. The driver, Ruben Perez (52), exited the parking lot and crossed the outside and middle lanes attempting to reach the inside lane of travel. As Perez entered the inside lane, he traveled into the path of a 2022 blue Subaru WRX, driven by Nathaniel Wooten (26). The Subaru impacted the scooter on the left side, at which time Perez was propelled onto the hood and into the windshield of the Subaru. The scooter was redirected northwest approximately 75 feet where it came to a final rest in the median.
Perez was carried north a short distance before rolling off in front of the Subaru as it braked in the travel lanes northbound U.S. 27 approximately 75 feet from the point of impact. He was not wearing a helmet. Wooten and his passenger were both wearing seatbelts and no airbags deployed in their car.
Upon arrival of first responders, Perez was found unresponsive and CPR was initiated. He was transported to a local hospital. After being transferred he succumbed to his injuries. Wooten and his passenger were not injured and remained on scene.
Braddock and Berkley Road Growth Sparks Debate Over Noise, Light Pollution, and Local Control by James Coulter
Nearly eight acres are slated for development to support local urban growth and commercial needs, but residents have raised concerns about increased traffic, noise, and light pollution.
At their meeting on Tues. Dec. 16, Polk County commissioners voted 4–1 to approve two ordinances affecting 7.95 acres at the intersection of Braddock and Berkley roads near Auburndale. Commissioner Bill Braswell voted against both ordinances.
One ordinance redesignates the site as a Neighborhood Activity Center (NAC); the other amends the land development code to add a development block and strengthen buffering requirements for the property.
Bart Allen, an attorney for the applicant, said the project would meet growing local retail needs as the area expands following recent infrastructure investments.
He noted that Braddock Road was rebuilt and realigned in 2024 into a four‑lane divided urban collector road, and that businesses are showing interest in relocating to the intersection.
“I know there are businesses that want to relocate to the intersection, so you will see more folks moving here,” Allen said. “There is a lot of interest in this area, which is why you see the request before you.”
Commissioner Bill Braswell questioned whether the proposed buffering would be adequate for nearby homes, saying Polk County’s standards lag behind those in other states.
“When you leave this state and look at other states with more restrictive buffering, where you put a development next to Walmart and do not know the Walmart is there, we feel we fall short,” he said.
The applicant’s attorney countered that the plan exceeds minimum requirements by specifying tree plantings intended to grow tall enough to screen the development.
However, many Auburndale residents spoke during public comments to raise concerns about the proposed development, specifically with traffic, noise, light pollution, and city autonomy.
Dorothea Taylor Bogert, former Auburndale mayor, claimed the development was unnecessary, as the residents “do not want more gas stations.” She implored the commission to leave this type of decision-making to the City of Auburndale.
“Our citizens want to be able to make our decisions locally,” she said. “I respectfully ask you to decline this request and allow it to go to Auburndale for them to determine what will be done with the property. I respectfully request that the city make that decision.”
Another resident, Mark Harris, warned about potential light pollution from 24/7 businesses and called the proposal redundant given existing convenience stores and fast-food outlets nearby.
“I have no need for gas stations or drive-thrus,” he said. “There are options for me down the road. I know there will be change, but it should match the aesthetic of the area so that it flows more evenly and smoothly.”
The applicant’s attorney noted that many nearby businesses carry Auburndale addresses but sit on county‑jurisdiction land. He also said an opaque six‑foot fence would provide effective buffering; however, the applicants would agree to a brick wall if required.
One Movie Later: Take a Holly Jolly Blast from the Past with These Two 1987 Xmas Specials
by James Coulter
Does anyone remember 1987? Boy, what a year. Baby Jessica. Iran-Contra. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Predator. Princess Bride. And the births of Kesha, Zac Effrom, and—well, me!
Yes! Yours truly was born on Jan. 26, 1987. The year holds a special place in my heart, not only because it was my birth year, but also because it saw the premiere of two of my favorite Christmas specials–the kind of specials I watch every Christmas because the holiday wouldn’t be complete without them.
The first is a Muppet Family Christmas, which premiered on ABC on Dec. 16. 1987. If you think Avengers: Endgame was the biggest crossover of all time, for millennials like myself, this special was our Avengers. Not only did it star the titular Muppets, but also other Muppet characters from other Muppet productions, including Sesame Street, Fraggle Rock, and Muppet Babies.
The best part of the special was seeing all the Muppet characters bounce their personalities off of each other, from Animal considering Cookie Monster a kindred spirit after seeing the blue monster scarf down an entire platter of Christmas cookies, to the Swedish Chef attempting to cook Big Bird for Christmas. (Yes, that actually happened!)
My second favorite special from my birth year was A Garfield Christmas, which premiered on CBS on Dec. 21, 1987. While our favorite fat cat hates Mondays, he absolutely loves Christmas, even if he doesn’t always show his holiday spirit.
As usual, our beloved grumpy cat has a lot to be grumpy about during the holidays, from trudging through the snow to nearly killing himself setting the star on the Christmas tree, but he still manages to reveal his softer side during the warmer holiday.
Helping the literal grumpy puss come out of his shell is Grandma, a spunky, feisty granny with more vim and vigor than her own grandchildren. Despite her rough and tumble exterior, like Garfield, she too has a sentimental side that the cat manages to help her reveal during the special’s more touching moments.
While A Muppet Family Christmas is not available on streaming or home media, the special has been uploaded to YouTube. A Garfield Christmas is streaming for free on Tubi, PlutoTV, Plex, and The Roku Channel.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office Cyber Crimes detectives arrested 39-year-old Andrew “Drew” McGaffigan of Auburndale on December 17, 2025, and charged him with 30 counts of child pornography, and on December 23rd added 46 more counts after further investigation of his electronic devices. He has been incarcerated since his original arrest and his original bond amount was set at $300,000 ($10,000 per charge). He is now being held on no bond.
The investigation began upon receipt of several NCMEC cybertips (National Center for Missing and Endangered Children) regarding child pornography files being uploaded by McGaffigan.
The Auburndale Police Department also received NCMEC tips and collaborated with the PCSO to have our detectives take over the investigation.
The tips indicated that multiple files were being uploaded to McGaffigan’s cloud storage from his mobile device. Detectives served an electronic search warrant on the account and located 30 files of children between the ages of 9 months old and 12 years old being sexually abused. The babies and children were not identified as anyone McGaffigan has access to in his life.
An arrest warrant was issued, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office placed McGaffigan under arrest at his place of employment in Plant City. He was later transferred to the Polk County Jail.
Upon his arrest, McGaffigan’s cell phone and electronic devices were seized and a forensic examination ensued. Detectives located an additional 46 images and videos depicting child sexual abuse material. The victims in the digital files ranged in age from 6 months old to approximately 9 years old. One video file was located that depicted a 5 year old female child being forced to engage in sexual bestiality with a dog – she is blindfolded with her hands tied above her head. Some of the files contained captions advocating for the legalization of pedophilia and encouraging others to engage in the sexual abuse of babies and children.
McGaffigan is actively involved with the First Baptist Church of Auburndale.
“This suspect is the worst of the worst. Here is a married man with children of his own advocating for the sexual abuse of babies and children. He’s also active in his local church. We will continue our thorough investigation to determine whether or not he has abused any child to whom he has access.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
