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Get a Free Prom Outfit from Project Prom at Lakeland Square Mall! Here’s How!

Allison
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Get a Free Prom Outfit from Project Prom at Lakeland Square Mall! Here’s How!

Get a Free Prom Outfit from Project Prom at Lakeland Square Mall! Here’s How!
by James Coulter
 
If you’re a high school student (or the parent of one) who’s looking for a hot new prom outfit, then come on down to Project Prom at Lakeland Square Mall.
 
All you have to do is show your student I.D. and sign a pledge promising to stay away from drugs, alcohol, and other risky behavior that night, and you can pick up your own suit or dress.
 
Best of all? It’s absolutely free.
 
Project Prom is being run by InnerAct Alliance, a non-profit organization whose mission, according to their website, is to “reduce the abuse and underage use of harmful substances along with involvement in other risky behaviors.”
 
“Over the past 40 years, InnerAct Alliance has become known as Central Florida’s most trusted voice in substance abuse prevention,” their website states.
 
Angie Ellison, Executive Director for InnerAct Alliance, has been involved with the organization for 25 years.  She appreciates being involved in helping her community however she can.
 
“One of the things I love about it is that you have a lot of flexibility and the ability to see what the needs are in the community and serve those needs,” she said.
 
She remains invested in her organization’s Project Prom initiative, not only for providing local students with access to prom outfits that they may otherwise be unable to afford, but also for ensuring that those students stay away from engaging in risky behavior like drunk driving.
 
“One of the things I was shocked about when I moved to Polk County is that none of the proms are in Polk County,” she said. “They [the students] get on I4 and drive either to Orlando and Tampa, which only adds more risk to that entire process…So, there are a lot of risks around prom time.”
 
As such, students receive outfits in exchange for signing a pledge promising to avoid risky behaviors and substances like drugs and alcohol. They are also informed by volunteers about the risks of such behavior and substances.
 
“Our kids talk to every kid that comes in and talks to them about making sure that the night is a wonderful memory that they can talk about for the rest of their lives, versus a nightmare where somebody either loses their life or is permanently injured or maimed, where they have a negative memory associated with that night rather than a dream.”
 
Project Prom is located at Lakeland Square Mall at 3800 US Hwy 98 N. in Lakeland. The store will be open on Sat. Mar. 7 and Sat. March 21 from 11 AM to 4 PM. Learn more at: inneractalliance.org/project-prom.html
 
Angie Ellison recently appeared on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast to discuss InnerAct Alliance and their Project Prom initiative. Listen to the full podcast here: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-79-project-prom-2026-wangie-ellison

American Legion Riders to Hit the Road for Staff Sgt. John Reiners Scholarship Fund

Staff Reporter
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American Legion Riders to Hit the Road for Staff Sgt. John Reiners Scholarship Fund

HAINES CITY – The American Legion Riders of American Legion Post 34 are gearing up for a special fundraising ride this Saturday to benefit the Staff Sgt. John Reiners Scholarship Fund (see accompanying article).

The 75-mile ride will begin and end at Post 34 in Haines City. The first stop will be American Legion Post 3, followed by American Legion Post 72. Riders will then head to Mission BBQ in Lakeland before returning to Post 34.

Raffles and 50/50 drawings will be held at each stop along the route, giving participants multiple opportunities to support the cause.

The event kicks off Saturday morning with breakfast served from 8 to 10 a.m. at Post 34. The community is invited to attend, and breakfast is $9 per person.

Kickstands go up at 11 a.m., also from Post 34. The cost to participate in the ride is $10 for riders and passengers.

“Every cent always goes to the cause,” said Tim Nabinger, Post Commander, American Legion Post 34.

Last year, the Riders raised $3,800 for the Scholarship Fund, and organizers hope this year’s ride will be just as successful in honoring the memory of Staff Sgt. John Reiners while supporting local students.

Itinerary

Post 34, 107 North 11th Street, Haines City

Post 3, 1575 US Hwy 17 South, Bartow

Post 72, 1500 North Church Avenue, Mulberry

Mission BBQ, 4014 South Florida Avenue, Lakeland

Haines City High Honors Alumni Fallen Hero Staff Sgt. John Reiners 16 Years Later

Staff Reporter
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Haines City High Honors Alumni Fallen Hero Staff Sgt. John Reiners 16 Years Later
Family, friends, students and members of the American Legion Post 34, Haines City gathered to remember Reiners.

Staff Sgt. John Reiners was killed in action on Feb. 13, 2010, after enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device in Zhari Province, Afghanistan, during Operation Enduring Freedom. He was serving with the 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colorado. An Airborne soldier and Army Ranger, Reiners served his country with distinction.

HAINES CITY – Although 16 years have passed since that fateful day, Ronna Jackson says there isn’t a day she doesn’t think of her son.

A 2004 graduate of Haines City High School and an active member of the school’s JROTC program, Reiners is remembered each year on the anniversary of his death. This year, three days ahead of Feb. 13, HCHS JROTC cadets held a solemn ceremony attended by Jackson; members of American Legion Post 34 of Haines City; the school choir; and family and friends. Jackson herself also graduated from HCHS in 1982.

 A memorial flag is presented to Reiners mother, Ronna Jackson.

“It is so heartwarming and humbling to know that after all these years his high school still honors his memory with a remembrance ceremony,” Jackson said. “It is not only healing for me, but it is an opportunity for the current year’s JROTC cadets to learn about a fellow Hornet that became our small town’s hero.”

Members of the HCHS JROTC prepare to move the wreath in memory of Reiners. 

The ceremony took place on campus near the JROTC classrooms. At the center of the common area stands a memorial garden featuring a permanent monument to Reiners — a painted silhouette bearing his rank and name.

During the ceremony, speakers reflected on his bravery and dedication. Shortly after completing basic training, Reiners deployed twice to Iraq, earning two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star for his service. He is survived by his wife, Casey, and their son, Lex.

Each year, members of American Legion Post 34 in Haines City organize a motorcycle ride to raise funds for a scholarship established in Reiners’ honor, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

“For me it’s easy to remember the people I know are fighting for our freedom,” said Tim Nabinger, Post Commander of American Legion Post 34. “And that’s what it’s all about at the end of the day.”

#image_title

Last year, Post 34 raised $3,800 for scholarships and Nabinger said they hope the total is even higher this year. (See sidebar for details)

Your Child’s Oral Health: A Foundation for Better Overall Health

Allison
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Your Child’s Oral Health: A Foundation for Better Overall Health

Good oral health sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles and better overall health. Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) help eligible families access affordable and comprehensive care for their children and teens, including regular cleanings, fillings, X-rays, and more to help ensure that eligible kids have access to essential dental services. By practicing good dental habits and seeing a dentist regularly, children can avoid dental problems and maintain healthy smiles as they grow.

Dental Coverage Available Through Medicaid and CHIP

If you’re looking for affordable dental coverage, your child may qualify for free or low-cost health insurance through Medicaid and CHIP. Together these programs cover more than 36 million children nationwide.

Enrollment is open year-round, and many families qualify even if they don’t realize it. Beyond dental care, Medicaid and CHIP also cover preventive health services, emergency care, vision care, prescriptions, and mental and behavioral health services for eligible children.

To see if your family is eligible and to find dentists in your area who accept Medicaid and CHIP, visit InsurekidsNow.gov and explore the “Find a Dentist” tool.

Start Good Dental Habits Early

Regular dental visits are an important part of your child’s oral health routine. Children should see a dentist by the age of 1 and continue with visits twice a year (every six months) as they get older.

Going to checkups on a regular schedule can help catch problems early or before they even start.

Cavities (also known as tooth decay) are the most common preventable chronic disease among children in the United States, and more than half of all children have cavities by the time they’re 6 to 8 years old. When left untreated, cavities can cause pain and infections that may affect eating, speaking, playing, learning – and even mental health.

The dental visit will vary depending on your child’s age and milestones, but it can include cleanings, full teeth and gum exams, treatments, and guidance on caring for your child’s teeth. Dental visits also help children become comfortable with the dentist, reducing anxiety, and building a positive relationship with oral health care that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Enrolling in CHIP and Medicaid

Medicaid and CHIP provide free or low-cost health coverage to eligible families and children. You can apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person directly at your state’s Medicaid agency. Learn more at InsureKidsNow.gov.

Provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at U.S. taxpayer expense.

Police Issue Warrant For Suspect Who Allegedly Shot & Killed Man Outside Lakeland Nightclub

Carl Fish
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Police Issue Warrant For Suspect Who Allegedly Shot & Killed Man Outside Lakeland Nightclub

LAKELAND, FL (February 24, 2026) – An arrest warrant has been issued for Janard Dominic Childs, 34, of Lakeland, in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred early Sunday morning, February 22, 2026.

At approximately 2:00 a.m. on February 22, 2026, a shooting occurred just outside the entrance of the Jade Fox Lounge, located at 3010 Lakeland Highlands Road. Lakeland Police officers were on patrol in the north end of the parking lot when they heard multiple gunshots and immediately responded.

Officers located a silver Dodge pickup truck parked in front of the business with the driver’s door open. The victim, identified as 38-year-old Deandre Montgomery, was found lying on the ground near the driver’s door. Officers immediately began life-saving measures while securing the scene. Montgomery had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to Lakeland Regional Health, where he later succumbed to his injuries despite life-saving efforts by medical personnel.

Based on witness statements and evidence gathered at the scene, detectives determined that Childs approached Montgomery’s vehicle and initiated a verbal altercation. The confrontation then escalated into a physical fight. During the altercation, Childs allegedly produced a handgun and shot Montgomery multiple times before fleeing the scene in a white Lincoln SUV that was waiting nearby.

Detectives have obtained an arrest warrant for Childs, who is charged with Second-Degree Murder, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Tampering with/Destroying Physical Evidence.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Janard Childs is urged to contact the Lakeland Police Department at 863-834-6900.

Individuals wishing to remain anonymous may contact Heartland Crime Stoppers in one of the following ways:

  • Call 1-888-400-TIPS (8477)
  • Dial **TIPS from a cell phone
  • Visit www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click “Submit A Tip”
  • Download the free “P3tips” app on a smartphone or tablet

Tipsters will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000 if their information leads to an arrest.

Convicted Felon Arrested After Crime Spree Involving Commercial Burglaries

Allison
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0
Convicted Felon Arrested After Crime Spree Involving Commercial Burglaries

A Lakeland man with 16 prior felony convictions was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and charged with multiple counts of grand theft, burglary, and dealing in stolen property, after an extensive investigation into business burglaries and theft of lawn equipment and power tools. 

Randy Thomas Whitfield (DOB 3/2/1966) so far has been charged by the PCSO with:

  • 8 counts burglary (F2)
  • 3 counts grand theft between $10,000 and $20,000 (F2)
  • 3 counts grand theft between $750 and $5,000 (F2)
  • 7 counts criminal mischief (F3)
  • 7 counts possession of burglary tools (F2)
  • 1 count dealing in stolen property (F2)
  • 1 count petit theft (F3)
  • 1 count possession of meth (F3)
  • 1 count possession of Alprazolam (F3)
  • 1 count possession of drug paraphernalia (M1)

On February 9, 2026, Southwest District detectives began an investigation into burglary and grand theft at a lawn business on Combee Road South in the unincorporated area of Lakeland, during which an unknown suspect stole four backpack blowers, five Echo hedge trimmers, seven Echo weed eaters, and three Echo edgers, valued at approximately $13,950. Surveillance video from the business and surrounding area showed the suspect arriving and leaving in a newer model white Ford F-150.

During the investigation a pattern of similar crimes was identified, with a consistent pattern: fenced commercial properties targeted at night, fences cut, lawn equipment and tools stolen, and a white Ford F-150 used as the getaway vehicle. In several cases, surveillance depicted a shorter white male (approximately 5’5″) wearing a mask, gloves, and dark clothing. 

A PCSO crime analyst determined that the truck was registered to Whitfield, who was positively identified and charged in two January 2026 Plant City cases using the same vehicle. He was arrested by the PCPD on January 14th and released three days later from the Hillsborough County Jail after posting bond.

On February 23rd, the Lakeland Police Department received a report of a burglary at Lakeland Public Works, committed by a masked male who cut the fence and removed a demo saw, a pole saw, and DeWalt grease guns. He was positively identified as the same suspect in a November 2025 business burglary in the city of Lakeland, during which he stole $3,300 worth of property.

Detectives obtained a search warrant for Whitfield’s residence and truck, and responded to his East Lime Street apartment on February 23rd. When they arrived, Whitfield was walking to his truck holding the two saws from the Lakeland Public Works theft. Detectives found a large quantity of stolen tools, and drugs, inside the apartment where he lives alone. He initially admitted to detectives that he stole the tools and equipment to sell at the flea market but then refused to answer any further questions.

All of his Polk County theft-related charges are enhanced by one degree due to the fact that he wore a mask during the commission of the felonies. 

“My detectives solved a burglary trend through hard work, thorough analysis, and cooperation with other agencies. This is why crime in Polk County is at an all-time low – we study crime patterns and trends and put the people who are committing the crimes in jail. ” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Cleaning Business Owner Arrested for Theft of Thousands of Dollars Worth of Jewelry from Elderly Victim

Allison
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Cleaning Business Owner Arrested for Theft of Thousands of Dollars Worth of Jewelry from Elderly Victim

On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 31 year old Ashley Hernandez of Lakeland following a theft investigation involving thousands of dollars in stolen jewelry.

The investigation began on Friday, February 13, 2026, when deputies responded to a Lakeland residence regarding a reported grand theft. The 67-year-old victim told deputies she believed her house cleaner, Hernandez, had entered her master bedroom during scheduled cleanings and stolen approximately $11,500 worth of jewelry.

Hernandez, who owns her own cleaning business, was hired to clean the victim’s house three times since December 2025. During each visit, she had full access to the home and was often alone inside the residence.

On February 11, the elderly victim discovered several high value items missing from her jewelry box, including:

• an 8 inch diamond bracelet valued at $2,000

• a pendant valued at $3,000

• an 18 carat gold men’s ring with a Medusa imprint valued at $3,000

• a 7 inch 18 carat gold ID bracelet valued at $3,000

• a pair of 18 carat gold panther earrings valued at $500

Detectives located several of the stolen pieces at Quick Cash Liquidators, and confirmed that Hernandez had completed 12 separate fraudulent pawn transactions. In total, she is accused of stealing at least $12,180 in jewelry. Unfortunately, some of the jewelry has already been sold or melted down.

Hernandez was arrested and charged with dealing in stolen property (F2), providing false owner information to a pawnbroker (F2), and theft from a person 65 years or older (F2).

During the investigation, the victim reported that others on Hernandez’s social media page had accused her of similar thefts. A friend of the victim, who also used Hernandez’s cleaning services, confirmed that items totaling $350 were missing from her Brandon home. The theft portion of that investigation is being handled by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, but PCSO detectives responded to the jail and added on a dealing in stolen property charge, and another charge of providing false info to a pawnbroker, after confirming the jewelry Hernandez stole from the victim in Brandon, she pawned here in Polk County.

“When you invite someone into your home to work, you’re placing a great deal of trust in them. This suspect took advantage of that trust, and our detectives, who are the very best, wasted no time uncovering the truth. I would suggest that anyone who allowed this suspect into their home do a full inventory on their valuables, and report any suspected theft to your local law enforcement agency.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Discover Your Family Story Through Historic Newspapers at the Polk County History Center

Allison
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Discover Your Family Story Through Historic Newspapers at the Polk County History Center

Newspapers can be one of the most valuable resources when researching your ancestors, often uncovering personal stories, unexpected details and long-forgotten clues that bring family history to life.

The Polk County History Center is welcoming professional genealogist Mark Mullinax for a special presentation focused on how historic newspapers can help break through long-standing research “brick walls.” Mullinax will share strategies for locating and interpreting newspaper records to uncover new insights into your family’s past.

The virtual presentation will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28. Guests may participate via Zoom or attend in person at the History Center, located at 100 E. Main St. in Bartow.

Attendees will learn how newspapers can reveal everything from birth and marriage announcements to community involvement, legal notices and personal achievements — details that often cannot be found in traditional records.

To register for the Zoom session, visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/wKuzKaM8RCeJViNxm1N3Sw#/registration

For additional information, contact Shannon Graham at (863) 534-4604 or [email protected].

Whether you’re just beginning your family history journey or looking to overcome a research challenge, this informative session offers valuable tools to help uncover your heritage.

Flyer courtesy of Polk County Government Florida

Polk County to Host Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Disposal Event in Haines City

Allison
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Polk County to Host Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Disposal Event in Haines City

Residents will have the opportunity to safely dispose of household hazardous waste and electronics during an upcoming community disposal event hosted by the Polk County Solid Waste Division.

The event will take place from 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday, March 8, at Haines City Public Works, 300 N. Fifth St., Haines City.

This convenient drive-through event allows residents to properly dispose of items that should not be placed in regular household trash. Acceptable materials include, but are not limited to:

Auto and boat batteries Household batteries Fuel and gas cylinders Filters, used oil and antifreeze Pesticides Mercury and fluorescent lights Flares Paint Used cooking oil

Proper disposal of these materials helps protect the environment and keeps harmful chemicals out of landfills and waterways.

For more information about the event, residents can contact the Polk County Solid Waste Division at (863) 284-4319.

Flyer courtesy of Polk County Government Florida
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