Phillip Anthony Cuffe, of Davenport, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, at his residence with his loving family by his side. He was 64 years old.
He was born on October 2, 1961, in Kingston, Jamaica. He moved to the states in the 1980s, before settling in Davenport, FL in 2005.
Phillip was proud to be a culinary cook with Norwegian Cruise Lines for nearly 10 years after obtaining his culinary degree. Phillip had a gift for connecting with people. He could make friends with anyone, anywhere, and was known for his generous spirit.
A devoted follower of Christ, Phillip was a faithful member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church, where he was very active in the choir and volunteered regularly. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and he lived out his faith with humility and joy.
Phillip was a loving husband and proud father who believed deeply in the importance of family and worked hard to provide for the family. He valued faith, peace, education, and hard work, and he instilled those values in his children. Phillip is remembered as a loving man with a great sense of humor who loved to sing and who found joy in bringing people together.
He was predeceased by his parents, Edwin and Leida, as well as his sister, Cheryl Cuffe.
Phillip is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, June Cuffe; his son, Phillip Cuffe Jr; his daughter, Chelsea Peters, and her husband, Benjamin; his sisters, Marjorie Williams, Valerie Sterling, Sharon Gascott, Angela Cuffe, Theresa Williamson, Karen Rivera, and Donna Cuffe; and his brothers, Dr. Stafford Cuffe, Wayne Cuffe, Edwin Cuffe, Michael Cuffe.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 1 p.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m., all at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, Haines City
Polk County Commissioners approved Eisman and Russo, Inc. to provide construction and engineering services for the Chestnut Road Sidewalk Phase Two and Phase Three Project on earlier this month.
The Chestnut Road Sidewalk Improvement Project is one of the Polk County Roads and Drainage Division’s Fiscal Year 2025-2026 CIP projects and construction is expected to take around seven months to complete.
Earlier this month, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office handled a rather unusual eviction—one involving a 14-foot, 600-pound alligator. According to the Sheriff’s Office, it took seven deputies and one skilled trapper to safely remove the massive reptile, who seemed ready to settle in for the holidays.
The gator was initially found on the front porch of a resident’s home.
Thanks to teamwork and plenty of courage, the alligator was safely captured on the road and transported to an alligator farm, where he was released. The deputies signed off with a fitting farewell: “See ya later, Alligator!”
Photos courtesy of Sarasota County (FL) Sheriff’s Office Facebook
In a holiday season crowded with everything from mouthwatering cakes, cookies and pies to “fa-la-la-la” forgettable fruitcakes, the dessert table can bring you comfort and joy or sweet-tooth dismay.
Here’s the secret to spicy, sweet cupcakes that “sleigh” at the dessert table: These gingerbread cupcakes with honey cream cheese frosting swap molasses for raw honey to deliver bold flavor and buzzworthy bragging rights.
Just like most legendary desserts, every drop of Busy Bee Raw Honey comes with a story. Sourced entirely in the U.S. and tested for safety, quality and three times for purity, it comes with a peel-away back label and Real Honey Code so you can trace your honey’s journey from flower to hive to your holiday dessert table.
Gingerbread Cupcakes with Honey Cream Cheese Frosting Yield: 12 cupcakes 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup Busy Bee Raw Honey 1 egg, lightly beaten 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Honey Cream Cheese Frosting: 8 ounces cream cheese, sottened 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened 1/4 cup Busy Bee Raw Honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4-6 cups powdered sugar
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Line 12 regular-size muffin cups with paper baking cups.
3. In medium bowl, whisk flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and salt.
4. In large bowl, using hand or stand mixer, beat softened butter and honey until smooth and slightly fluffy, 1-2 minutes. Beat in egg then mix in buttermilk and vanilla until combined.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture and stir gently until no streaks of flour remain; don’t overmix.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
7. Bake 20-22 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center of cupcake comes out clean.
8. Let cupcakes cool in pan about 5 minutes then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
9. To make frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add honey and vanilla then gradually beat in powdered sugar until fluffy, spreadable and reaching desired sweetness. Chill for firmer consistency before piping or spreading, if desired.
A sitting Haines City city commissioner had her city wages briefly subject to a court ordered garnishment tied to a civil judgment involving a vehicle related debt owed jointly by her and her husband, before a Polk County judge later granted an exemption that stopped the wage withholding.
Court records show the case involves Financial Portfolios II, Inc. and defendants Kimberly A. Downing and Darrick J. Downing. The matter stemmed from a vehicle account that went unpaid and later resulted in a civil judgment. After the judgment remained unresolved, the creditor sought to collect by filing a continuing writ of wage garnishment.
Because Commissioner Downing receives compensation from the City of Haines City, the city was named as the garnishee. In correspondence included in the court file, Omar DeJesus, Finance Director for the City of Haines City, confirmed the commissioner is paid $1,833.33 per month, which equates to approximately $22,000 per year.
Payroll records associated with the case show that $416.41 was withheld from Downing’s pay for September and another $416.41 was withheld for October, totaling $832.82. That amount was later returned on Nov. 5, after the court ruled on Downing’s exemption request.
Downing filed a Claim of Exemption under Florida law, asserting that her wages qualified for protection as head of family wages. In her sworn filing, she stated that she provides more than half of the financial support for a dependent child and that her net earnings of $750 or below per week, within the statutory limits that shield wages from garnishment. Florida law allows individuals who meet those criteria to seek relief from wage garnishment, even after a writ has been issued.
The creditor opposed the exemption and requested a hearing. Court records show a hearing was held, during which Downing provided sworn testimony. Following that hearing, the judge granted the exemption, dissolved the continuing writ of garnishment, and ordered that any wages withheld during the process be released back to her. The garnishment action was administratively closed.
Commissioner Downing was elected in a May 2024 runoff election and is serving a four year term on the Haines City Commission. Commissioners are responsible for adopting the city’s annual budget, approving ordinances, voting on land use and development matters, setting certain fees and policies, and appointing key city leadership positions. The Haines City Commission oversees decisions involving a municipal budget of approximately $151.5 million, with commissioners voting on how those public funds are allocated.
The Daily Ridge reached out to Commissioner Downing for comment prior to publication but did not receive a response.
Welcome, World Travelers! Mattel Plans New Indoor WaterPark in Orlando by James Coulter
Orlando is home to three major theme parks: Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld. However, a fourth theme park may soon be coming—an innovative indoor park built by an unlikely company: Mattel.
Recently, Mattel—the company famous for toy brands like Barbie and Hot Wheels—announced it will be opening “five unique destination waterparks” across America.
Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks, as these parks will be named, have been described by Mattel’s corporate website as “a series of experiential aquatic destinations to create a new form of entertainment featuring Mattel’s beloved brands.”
“Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks will encompass many iconic Mattel brands that span generations of play, offering innovative water-based attractions and amenities in a dynamic new format for Mattel,” said Julie Freeland, VP Global Location Based Entertainment at Mattel.
The first of these indoor water parks is expected to open in Orlando. This park will feature many innovations, including a retractable roof—the first of its kind in the country!
Mattel will be collaborating with Martin Aquatic, which has been involved with more than 2,500 projects with cruise ships and other water parks, including the award-winning Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay, and The Ritz-Carlton Naples.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with these exceptional industry leaders in waterpark development to create an experience where guests can connect with their favorite brands in an entirely new way,” Freeland said.
“Blending our innovative experiential design with Mattel’s family of brands is a dream come true,” said Josh Martin, President and Creative Director of Martin Aquatic. “We look forward to inspiring that same sense of wonder for kids and adults alike as they cross the threshold into each Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterpark.”
The exact location for the new park has yet to be determined, but the park is expected to open sometime in 2028.
Nestled at 4872 Indian Oak Dr., Mulberry, FL 33860, the Alafia River Reserve is a peaceful 334-acre natural haven in west-central Polk County. Jointly purchased by Polk County and the Southwest Florida Water Management District, this protected area was established to preserve the vital wetlands and uplands along the upper corridor of the Alafia River.
Photo source Polk County Parks and Rec
The reserve provides critical habitat for wading birds and amphibians that depend on seasonally flooded areas free from predators to complete their life cycles. Visitors will find the landscape dominated by forested hardwood wetlands, featuring sweet gum, laurel oak, ironwood, hickory, sabal palms, and bay trees. Due to long periods of inundation, ground cover is limited, creating a unique and pristine wetland environment.
Open to the public for hiking and picnicking, the Alafia River Reserve offers a quiet retreat into nature and stands as one of Polk County’s important conservation sites—right in the heart of Mulberry.
As your sun-kissed glow gives way to crisp winter air, your skin may start to feel the effects of cooler, drier weather. Yet, with the right care, it’s possible to maintain that healthy, luminous look all season long.
Winter skin care isn’t about adding complexity – it’s about preserving hydration, protecting the barrier and choosing products that nurture instead of strip. Rooted in the century-old European tradition of natural botanical skin care, the experts at Herbacin aim to show that radiant skin is achievable year-round with just a few mindful adjustments to your daily routine.
Skip Long, Hot Showers
A steaming shower may feel heavenly on a chilly morning, but the heat can actually pull moisture from your skin. To keep your complexion balanced, choose warm (not hot) water and limit shower time. Gentle cleansing helps maintain the skin’s natural oils, which are vital for keeping dryness and irritation at bay.
Immediately after showering, pat skin lightly with a towel and apply lotion while it’s still slightly damp. This simple step helps trap water before it evaporates.
Look for a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula enriched with natural emollients. A trusted choice like Herbacin Daily Moisturizing Lotion combines nourishing jojoba oil and shea butter to soften and hydrate. Aloe vera and chamomile calm irritation while leaving a light, refreshing scent. Suitable for all skin types, it delivers lasting softness without any greasy feel – perfect for daily use from head to toe.
Ease Up on Exfoliation
When your skin feels rough or flaky, it’s tempting to exfoliate frequently. However, over-exfoliating can remove the skin’s protective barrier and worsen dryness. Instead, use a gentle scrub or enzymatic exfoliant no more than once or twice a week and always follow with moisturizer to soothe and restore balance.
Layer for Maximum Hydration
Layering products allows each formula to do its job eftectively. Start with the thinnest, most water-based product – such as a hydrating serum or lightweight moisturizer – and finish with a richer cream to seal it all in. For a deep-moisture boost, try Herbacin Skin Solutions Daily Skin Moisturizer, formulated with a hydro-boosting complex featuring hyaluronic acid, myo-inositol and fucose biopolymer. This quick-absorbing, silky-sott lotion provides long-lasting hydration – up to 24 hours – and helps soothe even sensitive or irritated skin. Plus, its airless dispenser keeps the formula fresh and easy to use.
Choose a Thicker Moisturizer for Extra Protection
Winter’s cold winds (well not as cold as other areas but “Florida cold”) and low humidity can weaken your skin’s barrier. A richer, cream-based moisturizer creates a protective layer that locks in moisture and shields against environmental stressors. Even those with oily or combination skin can benefit as the right moisturizer helps balance oil production and prevents dehydration.
Don’t Ditch the Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential living in Florida. Sun protection isn’t just for summer. Winter UV rays can still damage skin and contribute to premature aging. Apply sunscreen daily to exposed areas, such as your face, neck and hands, especially when spending time outdoors. Reapply as directed for continuous protection.
Add a Little Light
Emerging research supports the benefits of red light therapy, which helps stimulate collagen production and improve circulation. The result is firmer, more resilient skin that holds moisture better and appears more radiant.
Keep the Air Comfortable
Indoor heating can sap moisture from the air – and your skin. Maintaining an indoor humidity level between 30-50% supports not only skin health but also respiratory comfort. If your home’s air feels overly dry, consider adding a humidifier to your bedroom or main living space.
From a quick morning shower to evening self-care, small daily choices can have a big impact on your skin’s health – no matter how cold it gets outside.
What could be better than seeing more than 60 old-fashioned houses and farming equipment decorated with Christmas lights? How about doing so while helping make other people’s holidays merrier and brighter?
Then come visit Florida Flywheelers Christmas in the Village. Not only will you be able to see thousands of Christmas lights decorating dozens of antique tractors, trailers, and buildings, but also be able to donate canned goods, toys, and money for people in need in the local community.
Since 1972, Florida Flywheelers has been a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and exhibiting antique internal combustion engines, steam engines, antique tractors, and other vintage farming equipment.
Every December, they host their annual charity drive through Christmas in the Village. The elaborate Christmas display takes up to four weekends to prepare, with up to 20 volunteers working six to eight hours a day.
Marly Warner and her husband have been involved with Florida Flywheelers for 12 years. Both have served as caretakers for eight years, planning the different decorations and scenes for the annual Christmas event.
“If you have never seen Christmas in the Village, it is something you really need to come see,” she said. “You just need to come out and see the fabulous lights.”
Aside from being able to see their hard work for the event come into fruition, Warner enjoys being able to give back to her community through the donations they raise.
“The donations that we receive help change people’s lives locally here at Christmas time,” Warner said. “It melts my heart to hear the children’s voices saying, ‘thank you for doing this for us.’ It is for charity, and Christmas is for kids. That’s a big part of our lives: watching the kids grow up.”
Christmas in the Village will be hosted this weekend on Fri. Dec. 19 and Sat. Dec. 20 from 6 PM to 9 PM at the Florida Flywheelers’ Antique Engine Club, located at 7000 Avon Park Cut Off Rd. in Fort Meade. Admission is only a canned good, toy, or monetary donation—or all three!
Marly Warner recently appeared on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast to discuss her organization’s event. Listen to the full podcast on Acast, Spotify, or Amazon Music: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-75-christmas-in-the-village-wmarley-warner-matthew-reynol
Haines City is wrapping up 2025 with one more unforgettable event—the Centennial Celebration on the Ridge, a special community gathering honoring 100 years of history, progress, and hometown pride.
The city is inviting residents and visitors to come together for an afternoon filled with celebration. Guests can enjoy delicious food, exciting kids’ activities, and live entertainment designed for all ages. The evening will conclude with a spectacular firework display lighting up the sky above Lake Eva.
This family-friendly celebration is all about honoring the past while looking forward to the next century of growth, unity, and community spirit.
Event Details
Saturday, December 20, 2025
Lake Eva Park
4:00 – 7:00 PM
Bring your friends, your family, and your love for Haines City—this is a milestone worth celebrating. Let’s make this centennial moment one to remember!
