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Florida Poly Tops MIT, Harvard In Career Outcomes Ranking

Carl Fish
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Florida Poly Tops MIT, Harvard In Career Outcomes Ranking

LAKELAND — Florida Polytechnic University has earned another national distinction, ranking No. 4 in the country and No. 1 among public universities for career outcomes in WalletHub’s 2027 College & University Rankings.

The rankings, released Monday, Oct. 12, evaluated 738 institutions. The career outcomes category considers six measures, including return on educational investment, the percentage of graduates offered full-time employment within six months, and median salary after graduation.

According to Florida Poly, this marks the third consecutive year the Lakeland university has placed among the nation’s leading institutions for career outcomes. Its placement in that category puts it ahead of MIT, Yale, Duke, Harvard and Princeton.

“This national recognition shows the strength of Florida Poly’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in high-demand fields,” said university President Dr. Devin Stephenson. “By pairing academic excellence with hands-on industry experiences, we give our graduates a competitive edge as they enter the workforce.”

The ranking focuses specifically on career outcomes and does not represent an overall ranking above those universities.

Florida Poly also reported that its alumni earn an average of $93,600 five years after graduation, citing data from MyFloridaFuture. The university said that figure is the highest in Florida’s State University System and 33% above the statewide average.

Bryan Brooks, vice president of student affairs, enrollment management and strategic communications, credited the practical experience students gain while attending Florida Poly.

“Our graduates are in high demand largely because of the experience they gain by tackling real-world challenges during their time at Florida Poly,” Brooks said. “Employers know that a Florida Poly degree represents solid technical expertise, adaptability and the skills needed to excel in today’s emerging industries.”

The recognition comes during a period of growth for the university, which focuses exclusively on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Florida Poly reported a record enrollment of more than 2,300 students this fall, an increase of 35% over two years.

The university has also launched new bachelor’s degrees in aerospace engineering and biomedical sciences. The biomedical sciences program includes a specialized pre-med track developed in partnership with the Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Construction is expected to begin in spring 2027 on the university’s planned Student Achievement Center. The 138,400-square-foot facility will bring academic support, career planning, professional development and student engagement services together in one location.

Florida Poly said the WalletHub recognition follows September rankings from U.S. News & World Report, which named it the No. 1 public college in the South and No. 16 nationally among public engineering programs at institutions without an engineering Ph.D.

Lake Wales Focuses on Furthering Redevelopment with $144M Budget, Higher Property Taxes

Allison
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Lake Wales Focuses on Furthering Redevelopment with $144M Budget, Higher Property Taxes

Lake Wales Focuses on Furthering Redevelopment with $144M Budget, Higher Property Taxes

by James Coulter

City residents may see higher property taxes on next year’s bill, but the added revenue will help accelerate redevelopment efforts: smoother neighborhood streets, enhanced downtown streetscapes, the revival of a historic hotel, and further rollout of the city’s award‑winning Connected plan.

At their regular meeting on Tues., Sept. 22, 2026, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously to adopt the budget and millage rate for the upcoming fiscal year.

The $144,473,884 budget outlines a wide range of capital projects, many tied to Lake Wales Connected, the city’s master blueprint for revitalizing historic downtown and strengthening links between neighborhoods, parks, and commercial districts.

According to the city’s website, the plan envisions “downtown being the epicenter of Lake Wales with vibrant streetscapes and interconnected trails, connecting citizens and visitors to area establishments, nearby parks, green spaces and neighborhoods.”

Key investments include:

•       $1 million for citywide street resurfacing

•       $250,000 to implement the CRA’s downtown parking strategic plan

•       $2.5 million for upgrades to the Peterson Myers building and Stuart Avenue parking

•       $17.5 million to advance the Walesbilt Hotel restoration

City officials consider the Walesbilt Hotel one of the most significant redevelopment investments. Earlier this year, commissioners approved a $2 million interim agreement for preconstruction and design work, which also sets a maximum CRA contribution of $17.5 million toward the restoration.

A study by PlaceEconomics projects substantial economic impact: 173 construction‑phase jobs, $19 million in labor income, and more than $900,000 in local tax revenue. Once it reopens, the restored hotel is expected to attract 19,500 visitors annually and generate $12.1 million in visitor spending in the first year.

Beyond downtown redevelopment, the budget funds improvements across multiple city services, including:

•       Expansion of Memorial Gardens Cemetery

•       Restoration of the historic Stuart House

•       Construction of a new south fire station on Hunt Brothers Road

•       Renovation of the recently acquired police annex facility

•       Upgrades to the James P. Austin Community Center and the Family Recreation Center

•       Improvements to the city’s water and wastewater systems

•       Construction of multimodal trails, including the Ridge Scenic Highway Trail, Crystal Lake Loop Trail, and Kiwanis Loop Trail

•       Renovations at the municipal airport, including a new weather station and beacon, an expanded parking ramp, and an aircraft tug

The budget is supported by a millage rate of 8.0462 mills, a 6.85 percent increase over the rolled‑back rate of 7.5304 mills. Under the new rate, a homeowner with a taxable value of $200,000 would pay about $1,609 in property taxes, roughly $103 more than last year.

The higher millage rate reflects a major surge in the city’s taxable property base. In the past year alone, Lake Wales added more than $1.5 billion in value, a 20.56 percent increase driven by new construction, annexations, and continued development activity, according to Lake Wales News.

Parks and Natural Resources Staff Conduct Prescribed Burn at SUMICA October 13

Allison
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Parks and Natural Resources Staff Conduct Prescribed Burn at SUMICA October 13

Polk County Parks and Natural Resources staff plan to conduct a 160-acre prescribed burn for land management purposes on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at SUMICA, located at 14020 State Highway 60 E. in Lake Wales.

SUMICA will be closed to the public on Oct. 13 but is expected to open the following day.

Source Polk County Government Florida

Prescribed burns are conducted when wind and weather conditions minimize smoke impacts to nearby residents and roads, but residents may still notice smoke in the surrounding area. Staff periodically conduct prescribed burns to maintain the health and ecological functions of its natural areas.Prescribed burning is the careful application of fire under a set of stringent environmental and weather conditions. All prescribed burns are subject to being postponed or canceled due to weather conditions and other factors.

Fires are a natural and important part of Florida’s landscapes that help restore balance to fire-adapted ecosystems. Polk County Parks and Natural Resources staff use prescribed burns to mimic historical natural fire cycles. These carefully applied fires maintain the health of Florida’s fire-dependent ecosystems, enhance wildlife habitat, improve soil health, promote biodiversity and reduce the risk of severe wildfires. Conducting periodic prescribed burns reduces vegetation and fuel loads, lowering the risk of intense, uncontrolled wildfires.

For additional information on site or trail closures should contact Polk County Parks and Natural Resources Division at 863-534-7377.

Culpepper Cardiac Foundation Donates 110th AED to Lake Shipp Baptist Church in Honor of Gregory Harris

Allison
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Culpepper Cardiac Foundation Donates 110th AED to Lake Shipp Baptist Church in Honor of Gregory Harris

The Culpepper Cardiac Foundation has donated its 110th automated external defibrillator (AED) to Lake Shipp Baptist Church, honoring Gregory Harris and helping the church improve access to lifesaving equipment for its congregation.

Harris, 25, was born and raised in Winter Haven and has been an active member of Lake Shipp Baptist Church since 2015. He chose the church as the recipient because several people living in its parsonage are elderly, and having an AED onsite could help ensure immediate assistance is available during a cardiac emergency.

Source Lake Shipp Baptist Church

“The church has been discussing its desire to get an AED for years,” Harris said. “In a business meeting this year, I offered the possibility of seeking a donation of the equipment and that I knew of an organization who might be willing to make such a donation to help us.”

Harris said he felt blessed to be selected by the foundation for the honor. He also expressed appreciation for the organization’s work in making lifesaving equipment more accessible.

Source Lake Shipp Baptist Church

“Having followed the extraordinary generosity and compassionate work of the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation for a long time, I can sincerely say that the impact they have on the lives of those they serve is inspiring,” Harris said. “Their unwavering commitment to helping individuals and families facing cardiac-related challenges is a true testament to the power of compassion, community, and selfless service.”

Harris also attended an AED demonstration led by Eric Shimcus, who explained how the equipment works and how it can guide people through responding to a cardiac emergency.

“The AED demonstration was incredibly informative and, quite frankly, fascinating!” Harris said. “I hadn’t fully appreciated just how intuitive and user-friendly these lifesaving devices are, or how effectively they guide even someone without medical training through the steps necessary to respond to a cardiac emergency.”

Lake Shipp Baptist Church Pastor Scott Owens also welcomed the donation, calling it a special honor to have the equipment placed at Harris’ home church.

Source Lake Shipp Baptist Church

Owens has been a member of Lake Shipp Baptist Church for more than 40 years and has served as pastor for the past two and a half years.

“Our church was blessed to be the recipient of a new AED equipment,” Owens said.

Owens has known Harris for many years and had the opportunity to baptize him. He said Harris has remained faithful to the church and is appreciated by the congregation.

Owens also praised the foundation’s work and its commitment to saving lives.

“Melanie and the entire Culpepper Team do an incredible job,” Owens said. “You can see through her testimony that saving lives is dear and near to her heart. I know the community as a whole is very thankful for their organization and mission.”

The AED demonstration was another important part of the donation, giving attendees an opportunity to learn about the equipment and other lifesaving devices. Owens said Shimcus also shared personal stories from his 25 years of service as a first responder.

Source Lake Shipp Baptist Church

“The demonstrations were so helpful in getting to know how to use the equipment plus the additional time Eric spent on talking about other life saving devices and sharing some of his own personal stories from his twenty five years of service as a first responder,” Owens said.

Harris said he looks forward to supporting the foundation’s continued efforts to expand AED accessibility.

“Again, thank you for bestowing such an honor to me,” Harris said. “I am excited to join Ms. Culpepper’s team as she furthers her commitment to AED accessibility for all.”

Owens also offered his thanks to the foundation for the donation, closing with a message of appreciation: “Well done Culpepper Team and thank you for our AED equipment! God bless you all!”

Source Lakr Shipp Baptist Church

Neurodivergent Diversions: 4 Tips To Make Your Autistic Child’s Halloween Not‑So‑Scary

Allison
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Neurodivergent Diversions: 4 Tips To Make Your Autistic Child’s Halloween Not‑So‑Scary

Neurodivergent Diversions: 4 Tips To Make Your Autistic Child’s Halloween Not‑So‑Scary

by James Coulter

Halloween is right around the corner, and while many children look forward to costumes and candy, some Autistic children experience the holiday very differently. Sudden surprises can be startling. Bright lights, bold colors, and loud noises can overwhelm the senses. And the unfamiliar social cues of trick‑or‑treating can make the night feel unpredictable rather than fun.

But Halloween doesn’t have to be frightening. With a little planning, parents and caregivers can create a sensory‑friendly holiday that emphasizes predictability, comfort, and choice, giving Autistic children room to enjoy the parts of Halloween that feel safe and exciting to them.

Here are several practical ways to help your Autistic child have a not‑so‑scary, sensory‑friendly Halloween:

#1. Prepare Early and Make Halloween Predictable

Halloween often brings sudden changes in routine and unfamiliar environments. Early preparation helps make the holiday feel safer and more manageable.

Introduce Halloween gradually through picture books, short videos, or simple social stories. Explain what your child will see, hear, and do with costumes, decorations, and trick‑or‑treating so the night feels less like a surprise.

If you plan to trick‑or‑treat, preview the route during daylight and note anything potentially overwhelming, like loud animatronics or barking dogs. At home, practice the basics: walking up to a door, knocking, and holding out a bag. For non‑verbal children, communication cards or a simple script on a device can make the experience more predictable and empowering.

#2. Choose Comfortable, Sensory‑Safe Costumes

Costumes can be a major sensory trigger. Itchy fabrics, tight seams, and stiff masks can quickly turn excitement into discomfort. Letting your child choose their costume increases comfort and gives them a sense of control.

Opt for soft, breathable, tag‑free clothing. Remove or cover any irritating seams before your child wears the outfit. Introduce the costume in short practice sessions at home to identify sensory issues early.

Safety matters too: ensure masks allow clear vision, costumes fit properly, and hems aren’t long enough to cause tripping. A comfortable costume sets the stage for a calmer night.

#3. Reduce Sensory Overload During Trick‑or‑Treating

Neighborhoods can be overwhelming on Halloween night: flashing lights, barking dogs, crowded sidewalks, and sudden scares. A few adjustments can make trick‑or‑treating more manageable.

Go out earlier, before sunset, when things are quieter and decorations are less intense. Noise‑canceling headphones or sunglasses can help reduce sensory overload.

Start with familiar neighbors or trusted locations. Sensory‑friendly community events (trunk‑or‑treats, church gatherings, or children’s parties) often offer calmer alternatives.

Set clear comfort‑based limits. Decide on a realistic plan together, such as visiting a few familiar houses or staying out for twenty minutes. Ending with a preferred activity, like a favorite movie or a stop at the park, helps keep the evening positive and predictable.

#4. Offer At‑Home Alternatives

Trick‑or‑treating isn’t right for every child. If your child prefers staying home, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Halloween without the sensory overload.

Create a candy treasure hunt around the house or yard to keep the fun of “finding treats” without the crowds or noise.

Pumpkin decorating is another great option and no carving required. Paint, stickers, googly eyes, yarn, and glitter let children explore creativity without sharp tools.

A Halloween‑themed sensory bin can be calming and festive. Fill a shallow container with dry rice or beans, then add small trinkets like plastic pumpkins or soft fabric bats. Include soothing textures such as pom‑poms or felt shapes.

City of Davenport Hosting Trunk or Treat Event Halloween Night

Allison
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City of Davenport Hosting Trunk or Treat Event Halloween Night

City of Davenport –

October brings costume planning, sweet treats, and family traditions worth sharing. This year, make the City of Davenport’s Trunk or Treat part of your family’s story.

Join us October 31 from 6–9 PM at Tom Fellows Community Center, 207 North Blvd. W in Davenport for a free evening of food, games, prizes, a costume contest, and entertainment by Studio C.

Gather your little ghosts, superheroes, and storybook characters for a night of treats and memories close to home.

Please note the updated location at Tom Fellows Community Center, 207 North Blvd. W.

Polk State Graduate Alisha Hinton’s Work With Incarcerated Women To Be Featured In Documentary

Carl Fish
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Polk State Graduate Alisha Hinton’s Work With Incarcerated Women To Be Featured In Documentary

A Polk State College graduate who has turned her experience in business and education into an effort to help incarcerated women will soon have her work featured in a documentary.

Alisha Hinton, an Avon Park native and three-time Polk State graduate, teaches incarcerated women at the Polk County Jail how to braid hair, giving them a skill they may be able to use to find employment or start a business after their release.

Her work has now caught the attention of Emmy Award-winning actress, director, producer, journalist and podcast host Tamara Johnson. Hinton will be featured in a documentary filmed at the Polk County Jail focusing on her work with incarcerated women.

For Hinton, teaching hair braiding is about more than the skill itself.

“The most rewarding parts of entrepreneurship and working with families with my nonprofit are seeing the outcomes, seeing people feel good and gain confidence by their appearance and their skillset,” Hinton said. “To know how to do their child’s hair; to do their own hair; to take care of their clients.”

Hinton has styled hair for more than 25 years and has operated her business, Lisha Lou, in Mulberry since 2020. She is also the founder of Knot Your Average Academy, which helps families, including foster and adoptive parents, learn how to care for their children’s hair.

Her path has included several stops at Polk State College.

After initially attending the University of South Florida, Hinton moved closer to home and began attending what was then Polk Community College. She earned her Associate in Arts degree in 2008, returned for a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management in 2012, and later earned a certificate through Polk State’s Educator Preparation Institute in 2020.

Hinton credited Polk State’s TRiO Program with helping her overcome some of the financial challenges she faced as a student. She said the program helped with expenses such as books, a laptop and other supplies while also providing academic support.

After completing the Educator Preparation Institute, Hinton briefly worked as a teacher at Mulberry Middle School and Lawton Chiles Middle School in Lakeland.

Although she eventually left the traditional classroom, teaching remained part of her life.

“Even though I’m not in the classroom, I’m in jail teaching,” Hinton said. “They come out encouraged and with a newfound confidence.”

Hinton said her experiences as an educator helped shape the way she works with incarcerated women, particularly by focusing on relationships and understanding the circumstances they may face outside the jail.

Her efforts to help others also extend beyond the jail. Through her business and nonprofit work, Hinton has collaborated with Lakeland Dream Center, Girls, Inc., Top Buttons and Dress for Success Tampa Bay. She also mentors other hair braiders who are interested in starting and growing their own businesses.

Polk State President Anastasios Kamoutsas said Hinton is an example of how education can create an impact beyond the classroom.

“Alisha is a wonderful example of how a Polk State education can become a catalyst for meaningful impact and engagement in the community,” Kamoutsas said.

Hinton encourages others who want to start a business or become more involved in their communities to begin with something manageable and build from there.

“For anyone seeking to start a business or do more in the community, just do it,” Hinton said. “It may seem like a big thing, but the picture can be very small, so take one step at a time.”

Polk County High School Football Week 8 Preview

Ethan Jones
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Polk County High School Football Week 8 Preview

Polk County High School Football Week 8 Preview

By Ethan Jones

Week 8 is here, and Polk County high school football continues to heat up as teams get closer to the final stretch of the regular season. With district races becoming increasingly more important and every game carrying more weight, there is plenty on the line heading into another Friday night. As for my picks, I finally got the perfect week I was looking for. After going 3-0 last week, I was able to correctly pick all three games I highlighted, which gives me some momentum heading into Week 8. Of course, that does not mean picking this week’s winners will be any easier. As we have seen throughout the season, anything can happen once the lights come on Friday night. There are several important matchups across Polk County, with teams looking to make a statement, keep their momentum going, and put themselves in a better position heading into the final weeks of the season. With that being said, let’s take a look at some of the biggest games to watch heading into Week 8 and see which teams I believe will come out on top. Let’s get into it. To kick things off, we have (5-1) Lakeland at (4-2) Sebring. This game will have major district implications, as both teams are 2-0 in district play. Lakeland currently sits in first place, while Sebring is in second, making this matchup a major measuring stick for both teams as they battle for control of the district race. Lakeland is coming into this game following a dominant 58-0 blowout win over the SFA Rams. As for Sebring, the Blue Streaks are coming off a narrow 24-21 victory over Bartow. Both teams are looking to improve their records and strengthen their position in the district, but before they can do that, there are some key things they will need to focus on. For Lakeland, the biggest thing will be avoiding predictability. Mixing its rushing attack with play-action and quick passes could create opportunities against a Sebring defense that has allowed 137 points through six games, including blowout losses to Lake Wales, 35-0, and Lakeland Christian, 45-21. For Sebring, the biggest priority will be taking away Lakeland’s rushing attack and forcing the Dreadnaughts to rely more heavily on the passing game. So far this season, Lakeland has been stronger running the ball, averaging 185.7 rushing yards per game compared to 131.3 passing yards per game. Although I think this game could be close early, I believe Lakeland will eventually be too much for Sebring to handle. The Dreadnaughts are averaging 40 points per game compared to Sebring’s 21.5, and Lakeland has already gone through several tough matchups against highly ranked opponents. With all that being said, I have Lakeland winning this game.

Prediction: Lakeland 45, Sebring 21

The next game I would keep an eye out for this Friday would have to be (3-3) Winter Haven at (3-3) Haines City. This game will have major district implications, as Winter Haven sits at 1-1 in district play and is currently in third place, while Haines City is 2-0 in district play and sits in second place. Both teams are coming into this game following lopsided losses, with Winter Haven falling 44-0 to Lowndes and Haines City losing 40-6 to Auburndale. In order for each team to come away with the win, there are some key things they will need to focus on. For Winter Haven, they will want to force Haines City to move the ball through the air, as quarterback Yomar Lopez has completed 37% of his passes. If Winter Haven can make Haines City one-dimensional and force them into difficult passing situations, the Blue Devils could create opportunities for turnovers and mistakes. If Haines City wants to win, the Hornets will need to focus on limiting Winter Haven running back Jakari Faniel and taking away his ability to control the game on the ground. If Haines City can slow down Faniel, it could prevent Winter Haven from controlling the tempo and force the Blue Devils to throw more than they want to. That could create opportunities for the Hornets’ defensive front. With all that considered, I have Winter Haven coming away with the win. The Blue Devils will be playing with a lot of emotion following the recent tragedy involving 16-year-old Winter Haven High School student Adinaluz Prieto Oyola. While no game can erase the pain of what happened, I expect the Winter Haven community to come together and support one another during an incredibly difficult time.

Prediction: Winter Haven 27, Haines City 21

The last game I would keep an eye out for would have to be (4-2) Auburndale at (2-5) Osceola. This will be another crucial district matchup, as both teams are 0-2 in district play and are looking for their first district win of the season. Auburndale is coming into this game following a 40-6 win over Haines City, while Osceola is coming off a 13-0 loss to Dr. Phillips. In order for each team to win, there are some key things they will need to focus on. For Auburndale, the Bloodhounds will want to take advantage of Osceola’s recent offensive struggles. The Kowboys have scored six points against Lakeland, three against Lake Wales, thirteen against Lake Gibson and zero against Dr. Phillips over their last four games. Auburndale should keep the pressure on defensively and prevent Osceola from finding any offensive rhythm. If Osceola wants to win, the Kowboys need to get running back Javontay Barnett going early. Barnett leads Osceola with 77.6 rushing yards per game and four rushing touchdowns. Establishing the run would take pressure off the passing game and give Osceola a chance to control the tempo. With all this considered I have Auburndale winning.

Prediction: Auburndale 35, Osceola 14

With another big week of Polk County football ahead, these matchups should provide plenty of excitement and plenty of storylines. Now it’s time to see which teams rise to the moment when Friday night arrives.

Community Comes Together to Help Local Resident Regain Independence

Carl Fish
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Community Comes Together to Help Local Resident Regain Independence

By Maria Iannucci 

A simple act of kindness has made a meaningful difference for JC, a longtime member of the community, after receiving a much needed use of medical equipment.

Lake Wales resident Jason C. Huffman, who goes by JC, had been relying on a manual wheelchair after his electric wheelchair stopped working, limiting his mobility and independence. Concerned about his situation, a fellow community member saw a need and acted to fill it. 

Lake Wales Police Department Lieutenant Dale Hampton, who has served the community for over 22 years, observed JC struggling with the use of a manual wheelchair in the neighborhood where he resides. A traffic accident in recent years has left the Lake Wales citizen with serious mobility challenges. Hampton, who’s been acquainted with JC over many years of community patrol, immediately understood the mission.

Hampton reached out to the Care Center, and the organization immediately stepped up, donating an electric wheelchair to JC and helping him to regain a greater sense of independence.

“JC has been a part of our community for many years,” Hampton says. “When I saw his electric wheelchair was no longer working and he was having to rely on a manual chair, I knew I wanted to try and help. Seeing the smile on his face and knowing he has some of his independence back is what this community is all about. I’m very thankful for the relationship we have with the Care Center.”

Rob Quam, Executive Director of the Lake Wales Care Center, says, “We have a great relationship with the Lake Wales Police Department, and we work together often when special needs arise.”

Quam says that their organization receives several motorized wheelchairs throughout the year, and works to place the best ones in the hands of those who need them. 

The gift is a reminder of the impact that local organizations and caring community members can have when they come together to support someone in need. For JC, the new wheelchair means more than improved mobility—it represents renewed independence and the continued support of a community that cares.

From Loss to Legacy: Couple Opens Burn Boot Camp Four Corners With Oct. 17 Grand Opening

Allison
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From Loss to Legacy: Couple Opens Burn Boot Camp Four Corners With Oct. 17 Grand Opening

Burn Boot Camp Four Corners will celebrate its grand opening Saturday, Oct. 17, bringing a new fitness option focused on workouts, accountability and community to the growing Four Corners area.

Located at 17075 Cagan Ridge Blvd., Suite 104, the gym is owned by franchise partners Amy Earnest and Brian Earnest, with Amy serving as franchise owner and operations manager.

Amy first discovered Burn Boot Camp in 2022 and said the brand’s ChildWatch immediately stood out to her.

“At Burn, there was a different sense of comfort. My kids were happy, I could actually complete my workout, and once we left, they would ask when we could go back,” Amy said.

After visiting Burn locations around the country, she said she realized the welcoming atmosphere was consistent throughout the brand.

“Different communities, different people, but the same welcoming and comforting feeling everywhere I went. I knew there was something really special about this brand,” she said.

Brian said the couple also saw an opportunity to bring that experience to the rapidly growing Four Corners community.

“When we initially announced that we were opening here, the response was overwhelming. We heard again and again from people saying, ‘Thank you for bringing Burn to Four Corners.’”

A Personal Mission

The new gym also carries deep personal meaning for the Earnests, who lost their infant daughter, Hazel Rose, in 2015.

Amy said the loss left her struggling with motivation and loneliness. Over time, she realized she needed people who would encourage her and help her keep moving forward.

“Burn did that for me,” she said.

The couple said their experience with grief and the importance of community helped shape their desire to create a welcoming environment at their gym.

“We have found different ways to do that over the years, but serving our community feels like a natural extension of who she was and who we want to be as a family,” Brian said.

The grand opening also comes just two days after Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day on Oct. 15, making the timing especially meaningful for the family.

“Our grand opening is a celebration on many levels. We’re honoring Hazel Rose, celebrating our family, and opening the doors to a community that we hope will become something meaningful for many other families,” Amy said.

More Than a Workout

Amy brings more than 20 years of fitness experience, including work in personal training and hospital wellness.

“Those experiences taught me that health isn’t just about a workout. It’s about strength, nutrition, mindset, relationships and sustainable habits that support your life,” she said.

At Burn Boot Camp Four Corners, she hopes members find more than a place to exercise.

“I want people to feel like they belong,” Amy said. “I want them to walk through the doors believing, ‘I can do this.’”

The gym offers 45-minute, trainer-led camps for all fitness levels, with modifications available. ChildWatch is also available for members.

Amy said she wants newcomers to know they do not need to be experienced or already fit to feel comfortable at Burn.

“Burn is built around meeting people where they are. Our trainers are there to help you, modify movements when needed and make sure you feel successful, no matter what your starting point looks like,” she said.

The Earnests are currently offering a limited number of free camps for those who want to experience Burn before the grand opening.

“I’m most excited to finally open the doors and see this community come together under one roof,” Amy said. “But honestly, I think the grand opening is just the beginning.”

“Years from now, I hope we can look back and see not just a successful business, but a community that became stronger together.”

Burn Boot Camp Four Corners

17075 Cagan Ridge Blvd., Suite 104

Clermont, FL 34714

Grand Opening: Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026

Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event is open to the public and will welcome local families, community members and small businesses.

For more info and locations, visit https://locations.burnbootcamp.com/locations/four-corners-fl/

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