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Northeast Polk Convenience Center Set to Open in June, Offering New Option to Combat Illegal Dumping

Carl Fish
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Northeast Polk Convenience Center Set to Open in June, Offering New Option to Combat Illegal Dumping

By James Coulter

A new disposal facility aimed at reducing illegal dumping in northeast Polk County is expected to open in early June, giving residents a more convenient way to dispose of household waste, furniture, tires, and other materials that often end up abandoned along roadways and vacant properties.

The Polk County Board of County Commissioners approved the Northeast Landfill Customer Convenience Center (NELF-CCC) Pilot Project during its April 21 meeting. While the program was approved last month, county officials recently confirmed the facility is not expected to begin operations until June 2026.

The one-year pilot program will be located at the Polk County Northeast Landfill at 4001 Bannon Island Road in Haines City and is designed specifically to address ongoing illegal dumping concerns in the northeast portion of the county.

According to Polk County Solid Waste Division Director Brian Cogswell, the facility will accept many of the items commonly found at illegal dump sites, including household waste, furniture, bulk waste, yard debris, residential construction debris, tires, and scrap metal.

County officials hope providing a convenient disposal option closer to residents will reduce the amount of waste being illegally discarded throughout the area.

The facility will be available to Polk County residents only. Commercial businesses and automated dump trailers will not be permitted to use the site. Residents will be required to provide proof of residency and payments will be accepted only by credit or debit card.

Once operational, the facility is expected to operate Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Commissioners also approved disposal fees for the pilot program, which will be based on vehicle type:

• Car, SUV, or pickup truck: $10
• Vehicle with utility or enclosed trailer under 6 feet: $18
• Vehicle with utility or enclosed trailer between 6 and 16 feet: $27
• Tires: $5 per tire

During the commission meeting, Commissioner Michael Scott asked whether the fees would remain in place permanently. Cogswell explained that many of the costs are tied specifically to the pilot project and that a long-term operation would require additional infrastructure and permitting.

Unlike a traditional landfill, waste brought to the facility will not remain on site. Materials will be placed into roll-off containers and transported to the county’s landfill in Winter Haven. Staff will be present to process payments, verify acceptable materials, and help ensure prohibited waste is not brought to the facility.

County officials also plan to use the pilot program to gather real-time data about the types and volume of waste being disposed of in the northeast region. That information could help determine whether a permanent convenience center is warranted in the future.

Commissioner Martha Santiago voiced support for the project during the April meeting, noting that residents in northeast Polk County have long complained about illegal dumping in the area.

“We had a lot of illegal dumping, and we hope this will take care of the issue,” Santiago said. “We have heard complaints from residents in the northeast. I hope people will use it.”

The facility is expected to begin accepting customers in early June. Polk County officials have indicated additional updates will be released as the opening date approaches.

County Trying To Curb Illegal Dumping

Davenport Rollover Crash Leaves One Dead, PCSO Investigating

Allison
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Davenport Rollover Crash Leaves One Dead, PCSO Investigating

The PCSO Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a single‑vehicle crash that resulted in one fatality. The crash occurred on Friday, May 22, 2026, at around 2:34 a.m. near the intersection of Home Run Blvd. and Westview Rd. in Davenport.

According to evidence and witness statements, a 2019 BMW was traveling westbound on Home Run Blvd. As the vehicle entered a curve, the driver, a 26‑year‑old male, lost control, left the roadway, and struck a power pole. The vehicle then continued down a slope and rolled multiple times.

Three people were inside the vehicle. During the rollover, the driver and a 28‑year‑old rear passenger were ejected. The 31‑year‑old front passenger, who was the only occupant wearing a seat belt, remained inside the vehicle.

First responders transported the driver to a local hospital with minor injuries. The front passenger was evaluated and cleared at the scene. The rear passenger who was ejected was transported to a local hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

The investigation remains ongoing.

From the Kitchen to Campus Leadership: Dr. Andy Oguntola Shares His Recipe for Success

Staff Reporter
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From the Kitchen to Campus Leadership: Dr. Andy Oguntola Shares His Recipe for Success

By Anita Todd

Andy Oguntola, EdD., Assistant Vice President of Admissions at Florida Polytech University

AUBURNDALE – He remembers so often sitting – at his mother’s request – in her kitchen with smells that made his mouth water from the dishes she created. During those visits, he quickly learned that to have a successful recipe, the right ingredients must be included.

Now, as a leader in the world of college admissions, Andy Oguntola, EdD., Assistant Vice President of Admissions at Florida Polytech University, has written and just published his first book that teaches readers the ingredients of a good leader.

His book, “The Right Ingredients: The THANKFUL Method for Building Leaders People Trust and Follow,” is – as he writes – is “A Proven Leadership Blueprint.” Just published in April, Dr. Oguntola’s book was #1 on the Chrisitan Leadership bestselling list for more than a week and it currently hovers around #30.

Dr. Oguntola began his future in college admissions – and leadership – at Webber University in Lake Wales. Arriving on campus as a freshman with a suitcase and a black trash bag that contained the rest of his belongings, he didn’t even have a bed sheet. There on a football scholarship, he fast became well-thought of around campus. So much so, that a week before graduation, he was pulled aside with a job offer in admissions. “They said they didn’t want to lose me,” Dr. Oguntola said. His football career didn’t work out but that career change – he had planned on pre-law at Stetson – changed the course of his life.

His success at Webber continued to Valencia Community College and on to Polk State University. At those institutions of higher learning, Dr. Oguntola used his leadership skills and unique understanding of students to advance up the admissions ladder.

“I just talk to the students like my Mom and Dad talked to me,” he said. “My parents were from Nigeria and they spoke in parables. My Dad told me wisdom was chasing after me, but I was running faster. It was his way of saying slow down.”

At Webber, from 2008 – 2011, he was promoted from Admissions Counselor to Director of MBA and Adult Admissions breaking enrollment records. At Valencia, from 2011 – 2016, he was promoted from Coordinator to Director of Admissions and was an integral part of the college winning the Aspen Award. Then, at Polk State’s JD Alexander Center in Lake Wales he was a part of enrollment doubling from 600 to 1,200 students.

Now, in the past 16 months at Florida Poly, he has successfully led his team to an amazing 39 percent increase in enrollment.

“Dr. Oguntola didn’t inherit a playbook at Florida Poly, because that didn’t exist. So, what did he do? He wrote one. When he took the reins of Enrollment Management, he faced the challenge that every transformational leader must face: Building something meaningful from the ground up, with urgency and without a blueprint,” said Bryan Brooks, Vice President, Student Affairs, Enrollment Management, and Strategic Communications. “The results speak for themselves as Fall 2026 is shaping up to be a record-breaking class. He had the vision to see what the Enrollment Management division could be at Florida Poly, the discipline to make tough decisions, and the tenacity to never give up. We are grateful for his leadership at Florida Polytechnic University.”

Oguntola remains humble giving God the credit for his success in everything.

“I think any success I’ve had with students starts with genuinely seeing them and believing in them before they fully believe in themselves,” said the 40-year-old. “Leadership is definitely part of it, but for me leadership has never been about position or authority; it’s about service, consistency, and showing up faithfully over time.”

And he elaborates on those attributes in his book as well as THANKFUL. The word THANKFUL in his book title is an acronym for what Dr. Oguntola believes are the ingredients of a good leader: T is for Transparent; H is for Humble; A is for Adaptable; N is for Nurturer; K is for Kneeler; F is for Faithful; U is for Unifier; and L is for Loyal.

Those ingredients are a part of Dr. Oguntola’s daily personal life too. He has a strong personal faith that he and his wife, LaPorsha, are teaching their four children – his legacy. “My faith has also shaped the way I approach people,” he said. “It taught me that success isn’t only measured by achievements, titles, or numbers, but by impact, stewardship, and how you help others grow into who they were created to be.”

Dr. Oguntola’s book is available on www.amazon.com.

Local Army and Marine Veterans Reflect on How Their Military Service Shaped Them

Allison
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Local Army and Marine Veterans Reflect on How Their Military Service Shaped Them

Local Army and Marine Veterans Reflect on How Their Military Service Shaped Them
by James Coulter
 
Two wars. Two branches. Two lives that could not look more different at first glance. One Marine who served in the Gulf, one soldier who fought in Iraq. One is now retired from law enforcement; the other is shaping young minds as a high school teacher.
 
Yet beneath those differences runs a shared truth: both are veterans whose service carved deep marks on who they are—and whose sacrifices helped ensure that others can live freely without ever paying the same price.
 
Dan Fiore and Ian Lilly are two veterans from Lake Wales. Both are proud members of the local American Legion, with Dan serving as the First Vice Commander.
 
Dan Fiore
 
Dan joined the Marines in 1991, around the time the First Gulf War had started. As the son of a Navy service member, he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps.
 
“Not sure if I felt a sense of duty or patriotism or whatever you want to call it, but I felt it was something that I needed to be a part of,” he said. “The Marine Corps was a good fit, a good choice, and I don’t regret a bit of it.”
 
Dan served as an infantry rifleman, serving in a mobile security force that provided personal protection duty for an American ambassador. Despite growing up in a big family with many brothers, Dan felt a stronger brotherhood serving alongside his fellow Marines.
 
Though he was proud to have served his country, that service came with the usual personal costs. He attempted to push those inner struggles deep inside, but they eventually bubbled up into major issues, including alcoholism, a ruined first marriage, and a nearly estranged daughter.
 
Dan eventually received the help he needed, and though he still struggles with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and the stress related to it, he still feels that some good has come out of his pain.
 
“There is something that changes a person when you get into military service,” he said. “The first time, when you are sitting there as a young adult and someone as young as seventeen, they are made to draw out their last will and testament. I think that affects you and changes your mindset of what you are really doing, and the reality that kind of sets in. So, it gave me a heightened sense of duty and responsibility, loyalty, and service.”
 
Ian Lilly grew up in a Navy family. His father served in the Navy for 24 years, requiring his family to constantly move across the country. So, when he became old enough to serve, Ian decided that he “had enough of the Navy” and joined the Army instead.
 
“I wanted a life of adventure and to blow stuff up,” he said.
 
His enlistment would prove fateful. He was still in basic training when the September 11 attacks unfolded. As the smoke rose over New York and Washington, his drill sergeants assembled him and his fellow recruits and told them plainly: the country was at war, and the road ahead would be dangerous.
 
“Two-thirds of this graduating class will go to war, and one-third of this class will die,” Ian recalled his drill sergeant’s warning. “You’d better pay attention to all of the training we give you because this may be all you get.”
 
His training proved hard, but all the better to prepare him to “survive in the harshest environment the world has to offer.” He went on to serve in Iraq. Now he uses the discipline he was taught to help teach the next generation as a high school teacher.
 
“The army breaks you down and rebuilds you,” he said. “I learned what never quit means in its absolute purest form. As a soldier, you see the worst in humanity, and you see the absolute best in humanity. I have learned the true meaning of perseverance.”
 
Dan Fiore and Ian Lilly both appeared on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast to discuss their military experience. Listen to the full episode here: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-85-memorial-day-2026-wdan-fiore-and-ian-lilly

Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation Awards Final 2026 Scholarship at Bartow High School

Allison
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Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation Awards Final 2026 Scholarship at Bartow High School

Community members making a difference — one life at a time.

Through hard work, dedication, and a mission rooted in saving lives, Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke and Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation continue to impact Polk County in a powerful way. This week, the foundation awarded its final scholarship of the year to a deserving Bartow High School student pursuing a future of helping others.

From placing AEDs throughout the community to supporting students entering medical, fire, and EMT fields, the foundation’s mission continues to honor the memory of Michael Culpepper while creating lasting change.

Read Melanie’s heartfelt message below as she shares the story behind this year’s final scholarship presentation at Bartow High School. 

I was honored to give out our 3rd $1,000 scholarship this year from Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation to Ms Angelina Cartagena – Beckford at Bartow Senior High School!!!

I started Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation in 2021 in honor of Michael Culpepper, who passed away from Congestive Heart Failure. I wanted to help save someone else’s life because I couldn’t save him. I wanted to honor Culpepper and to let him know that he didn’t die in vain.

We raise money every year to put out AEDs throughout our community.

We are currently at #95 AED going out this month that we have placed in our communities.

We also chose to help give out 3 scholarships every year for Medical, Fire and EMT as we support all of our 1st Responders. We want to help students further their education and this is our way to say Thank You to our students & to help further their education in choosing to Save Others.

This was our 3rd $1,000 Scholarship this year & our 5th year giving out scholarships with The Polk Education Foundation.

Culpeppers Cardiac Foudation will have given out a total of $13,000 in scholarships including this year.

I personally am from Bartow and went to Bartow High School over 35 years ago.What a Blessing it was to be there to give out our final scholarship this year right here at Bartow High School.

Go Yellow Jackets!!!

Ms Angelina’s Essay stood out to me with some of these words that she wrote in her essay.

“I Am Only One, But I Am One. I Can’t Do Everything, But I Can Do Something And What I Can Do, I Ought To Do And By The Grace Of God, I Shall Do. I Want Nothing More Than To Save Lives and Let Nothing To Stand In Her Way To Stop Her.”

A huge shout out to my Husband, Brian Beilke, for always standing beside me and being here for me no matter what. Even it being our 2 year Anniversary, he was right here with me encouraging me to do my best. Happy Anniversary!

Thank you, everyone who helps support, donate, sponsor & and promote in anyway.

Without all of you and the love of our community we couldn’t do this and it takes all of us pulling together to make a difference as “Saving Lives Matters.”

Lakeland Restaurant Server Already On Probation Now Accused of Fraud Against Customers

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Restaurant Server Already On Probation Now Accused of Fraud Against Customers

A Lakeland restaurant server is facing multiple felony charges after Polk County investigators say she used a customer’s debit card information to make nearly $900 in unauthorized purchases after serving the victim at a local restaurant.

According to an affidavit from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Angela Nicole Borrero, 49, was arrested on charges including fraudulent use of personal identification information, fraudulent use of a credit card, scheme to defraud, grand theft, and violation of probation.

Angela Nicole Borrero

Investigators allege the incident began on April 16, 2026, when a woman and her husband dined at Champs Grill on South Florida Avenue in Lakeland. Borrero was reportedly working as their server that evening.

According to the report, the woman handed Borrero her USAA debit card to pay the restaurant bill. Detectives allege Borrero took the card to another area of the restaurant to process the transaction and later used the card information without authorization.

In the early morning hours of April 17, the victim reportedly began receiving alerts from her bank regarding suspicious transactions. The affidavit states the card was used for six separate $100 purchases at a Winter Haven day spa, a $93.88 purchase at a Lakeland restaurant, and a $200 purchase at a Lakeland cosmetic store.

After discovering the transactions, the victim contacted her bank and canceled the card.

Investigators said the victim then contacted the spa, where the owner reviewed transaction records and determined the purchases were used to buy gift cards. While speaking with the victim, the business reportedly received a phone call from a woman identifying herself as Angela who wanted to schedule an appointment and use the gift cards. According to the report, the caller provided a phone number that was later linked to Borrero.

The affidavit states the spa owner located Borrero’s social media profile and provided a photograph to the victim, who allegedly identified Borrero as the same server who had waited on her and her husband at Champs Grill the previous day.

Investigators also contacted Champs owner Cary Liptak, who reportedly confirmed that Borrero was working on April 16 and that the victim had been seated in Borrero’s section.

Detectives later subpoenaed records from T-Mobile and the cosmetic store. According to the affidavit, the phone number provided to the spa was subscribed to Borrero, and records showed the victim’s card information had been used to purchase two gift cards.

Authorities estimate the total unauthorized purchases at $893.88.

The investigation also revealed that Borrero was already on probation in Polk County for a controlled substance conviction. Court records cited in the affidavit indicate she was placed on probation in November 2025 and remains under supervision through November 2028.

Investigators noted Borrero has prior convictions that include theft, fraud-related offenses, identity theft, possession of fraudulent checks, and drug-related charges.

Lakeland Police have arrested Borrero, but if you feel you’re a victim it is suggested you reach out to Polk County Sheriff’s Office or Lakeland Police Department.

Lakeland Man Involved In Tractor-Trailer Crash On I-75 In Hillsborough County

Allison
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Lakeland Man Involved In Tractor-Trailer Crash On I-75 In Hillsborough County

A 62-year-old Lakeland man was involved in a tractor-trailer crash Wednesday morning on Interstate 75 in Hillsborough County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The crash happened around 9:45 a.m. on May 20, 2026, near milepost 243 on northbound I-75.

Troopers say the Lakeland man was driving a tractor-trailer northbound on the interstate behind another tractor-trailer driven by a 54-year-old Kissimmee man. Traffic ahead of the second tractor-trailer reportedly slowed or stopped, causing that driver to stop as well.

According to investigators, the Lakeland driver failed to stop in time and collided with the rear of the other tractor-trailer.

Despite the crash, neither driver was injured.

Graduation Party Planning: 5 Tips to Make Your Grad’s Celebration Special

Allison
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Graduation Party Planning: 5 Tips to Make Your Grad’s Celebration Special

Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, a significant milestone worth celebrating. However, planning a graduation party can be overwhelming.

To host a memorable celebration for your graduate, consider these tips to help take the stress out of planning.

Set a Budget and Make a Guest List

When planning a graduation party, it’s important to start by setting a budget and creating a guest list.

Determine how much you’re willing to spend and allocate funds for different aspects, such as food, decorations and entertainment, which can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t overspend.

Next, create a guest list of family members, friends and classmates you want to invite. Consider the size of the venue and your budget when finalizing the guest list.

Choose the Perfect Theme

The theme of a graduation party can help set the tone and create a memorable experience for guests. When selecting a theme, consider the graduate’s interests, hobbies and future plans. For example, if he or she is going to college, have a college-themed party with decorations and activities related to the chosen university.

Other ideas include having guests bring items that represent memories with the graduate and creating a time capsule to be opened in the future or a travel theme with wanderlust-inspired decorations, food from different countries and activities that celebrate adventure.

Determine Decor

Personalize the party by incorporating elements unique to your graduate’s achievements and personality. Display diplomas, awards and photos throughout the venue. You can also create a photo collage or slideshow showcasing his or her journey from kindergarten to graduation. Remember to match the color scheme to the overall theme of the party and use lighting, such as string lights, candles or lanterns, to help set the right ambiance.

Organize Food and Drink Options

Food and drinks are an important aspect of any party. Based on your budget and the style or party, decide whether you want to have a sit-down dinner, buffet or finger foods. You can hire a caterer, ask friends and family to contribute dishes or prepare the food yourself if you enjoy cooking.

Don’t forget to have a variety of beverages available, including non-alcoholic options, and consider any dietary restrictions or preferences of your guests when planning the menu.

Get creative with your food and drinks by incorporating graduation-themed treats. For example, you can serve cupcakes decorated as graduation caps or cookies shaped like diplomas and create a signature drink that represents the graduate or his or her future plans. You can give it a fun name and serve it in personalized glasses.

Plan Entertainment and Activities

To keep guests entertained throughout the party, plan fun activities and entertainment. Consider hiring a DJ or creating a playlist of your graduate’s favorite songs to keep the energy up. You can also set up a dance floor or karaoke station for guests to enjoy. Also consider activities like a photo booth with props, trivia game about the graduate or memory jar where guests can write down their favorite memories with the graduate.

If your graduate has any specific hobbies or interests, try to include them in the entertainment. For example, if he or she loves sports, organize a friendly pickup game or set up a mini sports area for guests to enjoy.

Welcome, World Travelers! Rock n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets Opens May 26

Allison
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Welcome, World Travelers! Rock n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets Opens May 26

Welcome, World Travelers! Rock n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets Opens May 26

by James Coulter

It’s time to warm the speakers. It’s time to test the mics. And it’s time to take a wild ride with The Muppets to their big concert.

Nearly two months after the iconic ride dropped the curtain on a final performance by Aerosmith, Rock n’ Roller Coaster at Disney Hollywood Studios is set to raise the curtain on its new act: The Electric Mayhem.

“With high-speed thrills, a pulse-pounding soundtrack, and a VIP list like no other, this reimagined attraction hits all the right notes,” as reported by Disney Park Blogs.

With its new storyline, G-Force Records has been brought under new management by The Muppets, with some help from Scooter’s uncle, real estate tycoon and owner of the Muppet Theatre, J.P. Grosse.

Guests will notice the difference as they make their way through the queue, with plenty of Muppet posters plastered all over the walls.

“And while you’re taking it all in, keep your eyes open. Sharp-eyed guests will spot celebrity cameos woven throughout the experience, starting in the queue and continuing all the way through the merch shop,” Disney Parks Blog explained.

These celebrity cameos include such big-name stars as Awkwafina, Danny Trejo, Darren Criss, John Stamos, Neil Patrick Harris, Travis Barker, Yvette Nicole Brown, Wayne Brady, and

“Weird Al” Yankovic.

Guests will then be able to meet the Electric Mayhem band members—Dr. Teeth, Animal, Floyd, Janice, Zoot, and Lips—as they jam out in the recording booth, along with some animatronic penguin sound technicians and Scooter. Everyone’s getting ready for the big show!
 
However, in a video call, Kermit points out one problem: their show is about to start soon…and it’s on the other side of town!
 
Fortunately, Muppet Labs own Dr. Bunsen Honeydew has a state-of-the-art solution: a super-powered vehicle called the Lengthy Immediate Motion Object (L.I.M.O.)!
 
Of course, what’s a wild ride without some wild tunes to play with it? And thankfully, the Electric Mayhem have plenty of wild tunes for this wild ride.
 
“The Electric Mayhem teamed up with some of rock’s biggest names to deliver a lineup of tracks designed to crank the adrenaline from the loading zone to the final brake run,” Disney Parks Blog wrote.
 
Here’s the attraction’s full song list:
 
·      Song 2 – The Electric Mayhem
·      Born To Be Wild – The Electric Mayhem ft. Camilla the Chicken
·      Love Rollercoaster – The Electric Mayhem ft. Jennifer Hudson & Questlove
·      Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop) – The Electric Mayhem ft. Def Leppard
·      Walking on Sunshine – The Electric Mayhem ft. Kelly Clarkson
 
As Disney Parks Blog explains: “Each song brings its own energy, tempo, and attitude, creating a concert-style experience where the soundtrack doesn’t just play – it goes from zero to sixty in three… two… one!”
 
The Muppets are set to bring their signature music and mayhem to this iconic attraction, and the fun all starts when the ride re-opens on Tues. May 26, 2026.
 

 

Avon Park Man Charged With Attempted Murder After Stabbing Outside of Bar

Allison
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Avon Park Man Charged With Attempted Murder After Stabbing Outside of Bar

Arrest made in stabbing outside Avon Park bar

The following info was released by Highlands County Sheriff’s Office:

“A 34-year-old Avon Park man has been charged with attempted murder in connection with a stabbing that took place outside of an Avon Park bar on May 14, 2026.

David J. Lozano was arrested today (May 19, 2026) and booked into the Highlands County Jail.

Detectives received conflicting statements about what led up to the stabbing outside a bar called Room 111, which is located at 901 W. Main St., on the night of the incident. Further investigation revealed that Lozano and the 24-year-old victim had been in an ongoing dispute and that the stabbing was not in self-defense.

Note: Not all arrests result in convictions. Everyone is considered innocent until proven guilty in court.”

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