A 58-year-old Polk City man was involved in a crash Tuesday morning while driving a tractor-trailer transporting Tesla vehicle batteries on I-275 in Pinellas County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash happened around 10:30 a.m. September 1 as the tractor-trailer was traveling southbound near milepost 24.
FHP said the driver experienced a tire failure, causing him to lose control. The tractor-trailer entered the shoulder before striking a guardrail and a light pole, where it came to rest.
County Commissioners Approve Two Construction Contracts, Including Improvements on County’s Most Dangerous Road
by James Coulter
Polk County’s most crash‑prone and fastest‑growing corridor is set for safety upgrades after commissioners approved one of two construction contracts with a single firm, including work on the troubled Kathleen Road intersection.
Image source Google Maps
At their regular meeting in late July, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to award two roadway construction contracts to Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC.
Both ordinances advance improvements at two busy intersections, one of which sits along Kathleen Road, a corridor repeatedly described by county officials as one of the most dangerous and crash-prone in the county.
The first project will convert the intersection of Kathleen Road and Deeson Road into a fully signalized crossing.
This project will include “converting the existing stop-controlled intersection into a signalized intersection, extending the existing left-turn lane on Kathleen Road, extending the left-turn lane on the Deeson Road approach, and constructing a new southbound right-turn lane on Kathleen Road,” wrote Tabatha Shirah, Senior Procurement Analyst.
“These improvements will enhance the level of service at this intersection by allowing the vehicles on Deeson Road with safer and more efficient access to Kathleen Road,” she wrote.
The construction contract totals $2,150,875.08. The project is expected to take 155 days, with an additional 23 days allotted for allowance time.
The improvements have come as Kathleen Road continues to draw attention for its safety record and rapid development.
A major north–south route through north Lakeland, the corridor has experienced sustained growth in recent years, with new residential and commercial projects adding pressure to a roadway that remains two lanes along much of its length.
As previously reported on the Daily Ridge, a 1.5‑mile stretch of Kathleen Road saw 366 crashes and three fatalities over five years, according to Polk Transportation Planning Organization data.
County planning documents also cite increased population and employment growth as drivers of several widening and extension initiatives now underway. As those long‑range plans advance, intersections like Kathleen and Deeson must be upgraded to match future traffic demands and improve safety for current users.
The second contract approved with Ajax Paving Industries focuses on another busy intersection: Country Club Road and Buckeye Loop Road. That project includes installing a new traffic signal and making geometric improvements intended to reduce delays and improve traffic flow.
This project would “improve the overall operational performance of the intersection by implementing improvements that will provide an acceptable level of service on all approaches,” Shirah wrote.
The project is budgeted at $2,774,976.16 and is expected to take 330 days, with 49 days allotted for allowance time.
Funding for both projects is available through the county’s Transportation Trust Fund.
MULBERRY, Fla. — A 24-year-old Honduran man who the Polk County Sheriff’s Office says is in the United States illegally has been arrested after an elderly woman was allegedly sexually attacked inside her Mulberry home early Saturday morning.
According to PCSO, the 77-year-old woman awoke to a noise at approximately 4 a.m. Saturday, August 29. Investigators allege an unknown man had entered her home and bedroom, where he forcibly removed her clothing and sexually battered her.
The woman reportedly attempted to fight off her attacker and was slapped when she tried to get away.
According to detectives, when the suspect went into the bathroom, the woman attempted to escape through the front door. The man allegedly chased her, dragged her back inside and choked her before eventually fleeing.
The woman then called the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives began canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses and other information that could help identify the suspect.
During that canvass, detectives went to a nearby residence and spoke with two occupants while a third man was reportedly inside taking a shower.
When detectives made contact with the third occupant, they said he matched the description provided by the victim. Investigators also located clothing inside the residence that allegedly matched the victim’s description.
The man was identified as 24-year-old Axel Antonio Espinal Herrera of Honduras.
According to PCSO, Espinal Herrera initially spoke with detectives before declining to answer additional questions.
Detectives obtained a search warrant to collect swabs and photographs from Espinal Herrera. During that process, investigators reported finding multiple scratches on his body that they said were consistent with statements made by the victim. Detectives also allege Espinal Herrera was in possession of cocaine.
The victim later identified Espinal Herrera from a photo lineup, according to PCSO.
Espinal Herrera was arrested and booked into the Sheriff’s Processing Center on charges of kidnapping, sexual battery by force, burglary with battery, tampering with evidence, possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and loitering/prowling.
PCSO reported that Espinal Herrera is in the United States illegally and said several of the charges were enhanced by one degree as a result of his immigration status.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement was contacted, and an immigration detainer was placed on Espinal Herrera, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
PCSO also reported that two other men living at the residence with Espinal Herrera were determined to be Honduran nationals who were in the United States illegally. Both men were taken into custody on ICE holds.
The allegations against Espinal Herrera are accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation is preparing for its annual “Saving Lives Matters” event, set for Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Tanner’s Lakeside Restaurant. This year, Winter Haven Hospital’s Bostick Heart Center is stepping up for the second time as the event’s Title Sponsor, supporting the foundation’s mission of placing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) throughout the community.
The event on October 3, 2026 will feature live music from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., along with a live auction, raffles, 50/50 drawing, Lotto Hat and a gun raffle. Tristan Tritt is scheduled to take the stage at 6 p.m.
Winter Haven Hospital’s Bostick Heart Center opened in 2005. Today, the center houses a noninvasive cardiovascular diagnostic imaging suite, an expansive electrophysiology program, cardiovascular intensive care units and Winter Haven Hospital’s first hybrid operating room, where structural heart and valve procedures will be performed.
“We’re happy to sponsor Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation,” said Tom Garthwaite, president of Winter Haven Hospital. “Having defibrillators available as option as soon as possible can save a life, and we support Melanie in her mission.”
Dr. Ari Asif, chief medical officer at Winter Haven Hospital, also expressed his support for the foundation’s work.
“Studies show that having a defibrillator available when someone is having a cardiac emergency outside a hospital can nearly double their chances for survival. The foundation’s effort to increase the number of defibrillators available in our communities is a worthy cause for us to support.”
Tammy Jackson, executive assistant at Winter Haven Hospital, has known Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation founder Melanie Culpepper for a long time and has witnessed her dedication to the cause.
“Melanie’s dedication to Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation is inspiring,” Tammy said. “Her efforts in placing AEDs in as many places as possible empowers people to act in the event of an emergency.”
For Melanie, the support from Winter Haven Hospital’s Bostick Heart Center means a great deal as the foundation continues working to make AEDs more accessible in the community.
“I would like to personally thank
Tom, Dr Ari and Tammy for supporting Culpeppers Cardiac Foundation as it means so much to me. You all have been a blessing to our Foundation in sponsoring us to help us to raise money for AEDs placed right here in our town in hope to save a life. Once again Thank You as Saving Lives Matters!”
The “Saving Lives Matters” event will be hosted by Tanner’s Lakeside Restaurant, with The Daily Ridge serving as the media partner.
For more information about the event and Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation, visit culpepperaed.com or contact Melanie at 863-662-2694.
Lake Wales Commission Approves Amendments to Facilitate Future Construction of Hotels by James Coulter
Lake Wales city commissioners have cleared the way for several new hotels and a convenience store by approving amendments to the city’s land development regulations and zoning map.
At their regular meeting in late July, city commissioners voted unanimously to adopt two ordinances aimed at supporting proposed developments throughout the city.
Both ordinances adjust permitted uses within certain zoning districts and the allowable height of commercial buildings, changes that city staff claim will help accommodate proposed projects.
The first ordinance approved two amendments to the city’s land development regulations. The first amendment adds convenience stores with gasoline sales (including gas stations and truck stops) as a permitted use within the Industrial (I‑1) zoning district.
The change was requested on behalf of a landowner along State Road 60 West, near the Stoneridge Master Planned project and the Lake Wales Municipal Airport. The owner is seeking to entitle land “to allow a gas station or truck stop within an industrial zoning district,” wrote Autumn Cochella, Growth Management Director.
“Staff finds that a convenience store with gasoline sales is an appropriate use that supports industrial activity…[as] commercial uses to serve employees in an industrial area can constitute up to 15% of an industrial area,” she wrote.
The second amendment within the ordinance increases the maximum building height allowed in the BP Business Park and C‑3 Highway Commercial zoning districts from 35 feet to 45 feet.
The change was prompted by representatives for two hotel projects currently being contemplated in Lake Wales: one planned within the Longleaf Business Park on U.S. Highway 27, and another proposed along Ridge Way north of Eagle Ridge Mall.
Both projects require a building height of 45 feet, and the amendment would allow them to move forward without seeking variances, Cochella wrote.
Initially, commissioners approved the first reading of the ordinance on June 7.
The second ordinance adopted that evening involved a zoning map amendment for a two‑acre portion of a five‑acre tract located on the west side of U.S. Highway 27, adjacent to the Kohl’s department store.
The property’s zoning designation was changed from R‑1B residential to C‑3 highway commercial to support a “major site plan” that includes a hotel and additional commercial outparcels.
City staff determined the request was consistent with the Future Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan, which identifies the area as part of the RAC Regional Activity Center.
“The site is infill in nature, located within the City’s utility service area and will maximize existing infrastructure investments by connecting to municipal water,” Cochella wrote. “Assignment would enable the future development of this site and the potential increase in property value.”
The Culpepper Cardiac Foundation has placed its 102nd automated external defibrillator (AED) at Tipsy Hen in Winter Haven, thanks to proceeds from Old Man Frank’s Bikers Bash.
The AED was placed last Monday at Tipsy Hen, providing another potentially lifesaving resource in the Winter Haven community.
Tipsy Hen owner Melissa Gatsiopoulos said she is honored to have her business selected to receive the AED.
“My name is Melissa Gatsiopoulos, I am the proud owner of Tipsy Hen. I’ve been here for almost three years, rebranding twice during that time. I opened as Hotshots, then changed the name to Happenings, then once I truly felt what the community needed, which was a cool little music venue with the best wings in town. Somewhere to bring your family and have a fun time Tipsy Hen rebranded in February 2024. “Tipsy“ represents Beer “ Hen “ represents the wings.
Gatsiopoulos described Tipsy Hen as a proudly woman-owned business and said she and her team have worked hard to build the restaurant into something lasting.
“We have over 20 beers in house,” she said. “We easily have the best wings in town cooked to perfection. We have lots of flavors, sauces and rubs. We bottle our own signature sauces as well and sell them to the public so you can enjoy them at home.”
The AED placement was made possible through Old Man Frank’s Bikers Bash, which was held in March. Old Man Frank’s was owned by Greg Gay and Phillip Vanwinkle, who have owned it since 1953.
Managers Jenifer Nathey, Patrick Flanagan and Clay Rollins were among those involved with the Bikers Bash.
Nathey, who has been with Old Man Frank’s for 30 years and serves as manager of the front of the house, said she enjoyed the event and hopes it returns.
Nathey said she believes in the mission of the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation and specifically wanted Tipsy Hen to be part of the organization.
“I think the foundation is a great cause and helps us know and learn how to save lives.”
The AED demonstration was also an important part of the evening. Nathey said she found the demonstration helpful and learned new information about using an AED.
“The demonstration was very helpful and I learned a lot that I didn’t know. Thank you Eric.”
At Tipsy Hen, General Manager Adrienne Plati said the AED placement carried a special meaning for her.
“I’ve been at Tipsy Hen since the restaurant reopened with the rebranding of Tipsy Hen. I’m the General Manager.”
“When I heard we were gifted the AED from Old Man Frank’s Bikers Bash, it really hit home for me. Culpepper was a friend of mine and I’ve always believed this foundation to be a beautiful way to honor him while ensuring the safety of our citizens within Polk County.”
Plato said the restaurant is proud to become part of the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation.
“We feel honored to be a part of the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation organization!”
Gatsiopoulos also spoke about the AED training and the importance of being prepared for an emergency.
“It’s important to be ready because you don’t ever know when someone is going to need help. I feel honored that Old Man Frank‘s crew chose Tipsy Hen to receive the next AED from the Culpepper foundation.”
She also thanked the foundation and those involved in the AED ceremony.
She praised Melanie for keeping everybody on track and informed, and also feels honored to be chosen to be apart of this important cause.
The placement of AED No. 102 continues the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation’s mission of putting lifesaving equipment in locations throughout Polk County and helping communities become better prepared to respond when a cardiac emergency occurs.
As the foundation continues its work, each AED placement serves as another reminder that having access to an AED — and knowing how to use it — can make a critical difference when seconds matter.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day has already cleared $2 billion at the box office, overtaking Avengers: Endgame as the second‑highest‑grossing film. Not surprising! Spider-Man has always been the world’s most popular superhero, with his comics selling over 600 million copies.
Stan Lee famously said he wanted his heroes to come from “the world outside your window.” Peter Parker embodied that idea: an ordinary kid juggling school, work, and the awkwardness of growing up. Readers saw themselves in him, and that relatability became the engine of Spider-Man’s popularity.
That connection is on full display in the new movie, where many fans, especially autistic viewers, found their own experiences reflected in it.
“My Spidey Senses are Tingling”
On a rooftop, Spider-Man suddenly freezes as quiet sounds turn into loud noises. A dripping spigot. A soda can rolling in the wind. Pigeons bursting into flight.
“Alert,” his computer companion warns. “Senses overloaded.”
In an instant, the entire city floods his hearing. Car horns blaring. Sirens wailing. Crowds chattering. Every sound from miles away collapses into one unbearable, chaotic cacophony. He claps his hands over his ears.
Then, just as abruptly, everything snaps back to normal. Spider-Man lowers his hands, shaken.
“What was that?” he asks.
“Your heightened senses are taking in too much information at once,” the computer explains.
He exhales, still rattled. “Okay… It’s okay.”
The film explains Spider-Man’s heightened senses as the result of a new genetic mutation. Peter initially tries to suppress it with an inhibitor chip, but by the end he learns to adapt—and even rely on—his amplified abilities.
While his sensory overload is a dramatic device, many neurodivergent people, especially autistic individuals, experience similar bouts of overstimulation in everyday life.
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What is Sensory Overload?
Sensory overload happens when the brain takes in more information than it can filter or manage. Autism Experience describes it as “an intense feeling of overwhelm when the brain gets too much information from the senses and cannot process it.”
Because autistic brains process sensory input differently, they’re more prone to overstimulation, which is when sights, sounds, smells, textures, or tastes pile up faster than the brain can sort them.
Most people have felt a mild version of this: a crowd so loud you can’t think, a smell so strong it makes your stomach turn, or bright lights that trigger a headache. Those are all examples of overstimulation. Now imagine those sensations hitting all at once and magnified many times over. That’s sensory overload.
Neurotypical people can usually tune out background noise or ignore harsh lighting. Autistic people often can’t, and the result can be a flood of competing sensations that becomes overwhelming enough to trigger panic, shutdown, or a meltdown. In other words, sensory overload.
Sensory overload can happen anywhere and be triggered by any sight, sound, texture, or other input. These triggers vary widely from person to person and affect them in different ways. It can make basic functioning difficult. Some people struggle to concentrate. Others can’t process information in messy or chaotic environments. In more severe moments, sensory overload can lead to panic, crying, or physical shaking.
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How to Handle Sensory Overload
Sensory overload can be frightening, but it isn’t unmanageable. And while it can be triggered easily, it can often be eased just as quickly with patience and simple grounding strategies.
The first step is to step away. If a space becomes too loud, move somewhere quieter. If the lights feel harsh, find a darker corner. If the environment itself is overwhelming, permit yourself to leave.
Regulation helps, too. When panic rises, slow your breathing—inhale for four seconds, exhale for eight—and repeat until your heart rate settles.
Just as important as managing overload is preventing it. Memphis Neurology recommends seven strategies for reducing sensory challenges:
1. Masking sound. Use noise-canceling headphones to block out loud or sudden noises. Listen to calming music or try white noise, which can also help mask unpleasant sounds.
2. Sunglasses. Sunglasses can reduce glare and harsh lighting, making bright environments more manageable.
3. Screen protection. Bright screens on phones and computers can cause sensory overload. Try tinted overlays in soothing colors like blue, purple, or orange. Apps that adjust screen brightness and color tones can also help.
4. Tactile soothers. Use items like stress balls, fidget spinners, or textured rings to stay calm. Weighted blankets can also be very comforting during stressful moments.
5. Quiet spaces. Set up a quiet area with soft lighting, comfy seating, and sensory-friendly materials. This space can be a go-to place to relax and recharge when overstimulated.
6. Sensory breaks. Take planned breaks during prolonged activities. These breaks may include spending time in your quiet space or calming activities like walking or listening to music.
7. Mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness practices like deep breathing and guided imagery reduce stress and help you regulate your emotions.
Spider-Man resonates because he feels genuinely relatable—like someone you might actually know, including yourself. That’s why so many people see their own experiences reflected in him.
While he isn’t canonically autistic, that hasn’t stopped autistic viewers from connecting with him. In the recent film, many related especially to his moments of sensory overload, seeing their own challenges mirrored in his struggle.
One Facebook post exemplified this very sentiment: “There are several scenes where his senses become completely overloaded and unbearable. The first time it happened to him, I legit said out loud ‘that’s it exactly what it feels like’ and teared up.”
That’s the real superpower of superheroes: allowing fans to see themselves in them!
POLK COUNTY, Fla. — A 78-year-old man was killed Friday night after being struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross Dundee Road between Winter Haven and Dundee.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and other first responders were dispatched at approximately 9:55 p.m. Friday, August 28, to Dundee Road, also known as State Road 542, near Overlook Drive.
The 78-year-old pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene.
According to the preliminary investigation, a gray 2007 Toyota Camry was traveling east on Dundee Road when the pedestrian attempted to cross the roadway from the south side to the north side.
Investigators say the pedestrian was carrying a flashlight at the time. However, the driver of the Camry reportedly did not see him until the moment of impact.
The crash occurred approximately 500 feet from the nearest crosswalk, according to PCSO.
At this point in the investigation, deputies do not anticipate charges against the driver. Investigators said speed, impairment and distracted driving do not appear to have contributed to the crash.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit continues to investigate.
A 74-year-old grandmother has been taken into custody and charged in the death of her 17-month-old granddaughter.
In a heartbreaking event back on March 31, 2026, a 17-month-old girl was in a car seat in the back seat of her grandmother’s car after being picked up along with a family member in Lake Wales. The family member had been babysitting the child while the mother was working in Winter Haven. The family member placed the child in the back seat securing the car seat then entering the front seat. On the trip from Lake Wales to Winter Haven, where the family member was dropped off at work, the child had fallen asleep.
The grandmother, 74 year-old Karen Denise Benyard, then drove to her Ave. N SW residence where she parked the vehicle at approximately 2:07 p.m. and went inside of the home, unknowingly leaving the child in the vehicle. Benyard took a nap and woke up at approximately 3:46 p.m. to go pick up the child’s mother from her place of employment.
When Benyard went to the car, she found the child unresponsive in the back seat. Winter Haven Police and Fire personnel responded to the scene and immediately started life-saving measures and transported the child to Winter Haven Hospital. Despite all measures to save the child, she was pronounced deceased at 4:33 p.m. on March 31, 2026. Overwhelmed with grief, Benyard was admitted to the hospital for treatment and was discharged several days later.
Winter Haven detectives conducted an extensive investigation including toxicology on the grandmother. On May 22,2026, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement report was received, which indicated negative for any alcohol or narcotics. Benyard’s cellphone and RING camera footage from various locations along her route were checked, as well, to ensure the timeline reported was accurate. Detectives found no discrepancies in Benyard’s statement.
After the medical examiner autopsy was returned on July 21, 2026, the report revealed there were no natural disease or physical injuries to the child, the cause of death being ruled to be hyperthermia due to environmental exposure.
Based on the totality of circumstances, Benyard was charged with one count of Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child (F1). On August 26, 2026, Benyard was taken into custody and booked into the Polk County Jail.
“This is an absolutely heartbreaking case where there is no closure for the family,” said Winter Haven Police Chief Vance Monroe Jr. “Our entire department shares the heavy grief of this devastating tragedy.”
Note: Under Florida Statute 316.6135, it is illegal to leave a child who is 6 years of age or younger unattended or unsupervised in a motor vehicle for more than 15 minutes, or for any length of time if the car engine is running, the child is in distress, or their health is in danger. Even if an incident is accidental or due to a memory lapse (sometimes referred to as “forgotten baby syndrome”), parents or caretakers can be charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child.
