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Culpepper Cardiac Foundation Places AED No. 102 at Tipsy Hen Following Old Man Frank’s Bikers Bash

Allison
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Culpepper Cardiac Foundation Places AED No. 102 at Tipsy Hen Following Old Man Frank’s Bikers Bash

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.

Neurodivergent Diversions: My Spidey Senses Are Tingling: Spider-Man and Sensory Overload 

Staff Reporter
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Neurodivergent Diversions: My Spidey Senses Are Tingling: Spider-Man and Sensory Overload 
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by James Coulter 

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!

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78-Year-Old Man Dies After Being Struck By Vehicle On Dundee Road

Carl Fish
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78-Year-Old Man Dies After Being Struck By Vehicle On Dundee Road

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.

Fatal Pedestrian Involved Crash

Road Work Expected in Haines City Monday, August 31

Allison
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Road Work Expected in Haines City Monday, August 31

City of Haines City – Government:

Attention Residents & Commuters

C and B Civil will be conducting road work at the corner of 30th St N and Hinson Ave on August 31th, 2026. The following areas will be affected:

Southbound lane on 30th St N at intersection
The road work is expected to start at 10 AM and last until the work is completed.

Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the area and to follow all posted signage and directions from on-site personnel.

For additional information, please contact our Utilities Department at 863-421-3695.

Winter Haven Police Call Case “Absolutely Heartbreaking” as Grandmother Faces Manslaughter Charge – After Child Died In Hot Car

Carl Fish
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Winter Haven Police Call Case “Absolutely Heartbreaking” as Grandmother Faces Manslaughter Charge – After Child Died In Hot Car

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.

Alert Neighbor Calls Police While Juvenile Burglarizing Vehicles In Neighborhood 

Allison
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Alert Neighbor Calls Police While Juvenile Burglarizing Vehicles In Neighborhood 

On August 25, 2026 at approximately 1:45 a.m., Winter Haven officers responded to a residence on Salisbury Dr. in Winter Haven where a neighbor was watching someone burglarize vehicles in the neighborhood. The caller watched the subject enter two vehicles and attempt to enter others.

When officers arrived, the subject had fled the neighborhood. With the assistance of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office aviation unit along with K-9, the area was searched with negative results. Utilizing investigative means, officers learned that 16 year-old Demarcus Johnson (DOB 3-21-2010) who lives on Edgewood Dr. was on probation and out after his curfew. (It should be noted that this residence is within a half-mile from the Salisbury Dr. where the burglaries occurred.)

Officers initiated a probation check at the home. As officers approached the home, they saw Johnson just outside. When Johnson saw officers, he ran, but was quickly apprehended in in the area of Dundee Rd and 19th St SE.

Johnson was taken back to his residence where his legal guardian gave consent for a search of Johnson’s backpack where officers located a hoodie and shorts matching what the video footage showed the suspect wearing as well as a matching beanie in Johnson’s possession. 

Johnson was arrested and charged with 2 counts of Burglary of Unoccupied Conveyance (F3), Resist Officer W/O Violence (M2); Petit Theft (M3) and Violation of Probation.

“I applaud the resident who stepped up to call when something didn’t look right,” said Police Chief Vance Monroe. “Community safety is a shared responsibility and the quick action and willingness to get involved made a direct difference in keeping more citizens from becoming a victim.”

Pasco County Jury Awards $969,000 After $10,000 Pretrial Offer in Head-On Crash Case

Staff Reporter
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Pasco County Jury Awards $969,000 After $10,000 Pretrial Offer in Head-On Crash Case

Defense offered no more than $10,000 before trial; Pasco County jury returned a verdict nearly 97 times higher

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DADE CITY, Fla. — A Pasco County jury on Aug. 12, 2026, awarded $969,000 to a woman seriously injured in a head-on collision after the defense, which disputed responsibility throughout the case, had offered no more than $10,000 to resolve the case before trial.

The verdict followed a trial in Dade City stemming from an April 6, 2021, collision in Pasco County. According to the case presented at trial, the defendant crossed the roadway’s double yellow center line before striking the plaintiff’s vehicle head-on.

The impact left the plaintiff with a severe compound ankle fracture, an injury in which the broken bone protruded through the skin. Due to the seriousness of the injury, she was airlifted by helicopter to Lakeland Regional Medical Center, where she was evaluated by a trauma surgeon and underwent emergency surgery.

The initial surgery was unsuccessful, and the plaintiff continued to experience significant problems with her injured ankle. She ultimately required an ankle fusion, a procedure that permanently altered her mobility and continues to affect her quality of life.

Jury Verdict Nearly 97 Times Defense’s Highest Pretrial Offer.

Despite the circumstances surrounding the collision, the defense disputed liability during the litigation and continued to contest responsibility until the eve of trial. The defense never offered more than $10,000 to resolve the case before trial.

After hearing the evidence in Dade City, the jury rejected the defense’s position and returned a verdict totaling $969,000 for the plaintiff, nearly 97 times the defense’s highest pretrial offer.

“This verdict represents the jury’s recognition of the devastating impact this collision had on our client’s life,” said Beach Brooks of Brooks Law Group. “Our client endured a horrific injury, multiple surgeries and ultimately an ankle fusion. She never gave up, even when the defense continued to dispute liability and refused to make a meaningful offer. We are grateful that the jury carefully considered the evidence and reached a verdict that recognized what she went through.”

The verdict brought the case to a conclusion following years of medical treatment and litigation stemming from the 2021 collision. For the plaintiff, the consequences extend beyond the courtroom. The crash resulted in emergency trauma care, multiple surgical procedures and an ankle fusion that permanently changed her mobility.

The case highlights the potentially life-altering consequences of head-on collisions and the importance of accountability when a driver’s actions cause serious injuries.

About Brooks Law Group

Brooks Law Group is a Florida personal injury law firm serving individuals and families throughout the state, with a particular focus on representing those injured in commercial vehicle accidents, including crashes involving trucks and other large commercial vehicles. The firm represents people injured in serious accidents and works to hold negligent parties accountable for the harm they cause.

For more information about Brooks Law Group, visit https://brookslawgroup.com/.

Polk County Commissioner to Reconsider Property Maintenance Ordinance to Exempt Vegetables and Other Edible Plants

Allison
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Polk County Commissioner to Reconsider Property Maintenance Ordinance to Exempt Vegetables and Other Edible Plants

Polk County Commissioner to Reconsider Property Maintenance Ordinance to Exempt Vegetables and Other Edible Plants
by James Coulter
 
Would the county cut down tomato plants and other garden vegetables if they grow taller than 18 inches? That’s a scenario commissioners want to avoid as they move to revise a property maintenance ordinance.
 
At their regular meeting on Tues. Aug. 19, 2026, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to revisit the Polk County Property Maintenance Ordinance at its next meeting on Tues. Sep. 1.
 
The ordinance was proposed to update “property maintenance standards for unincorporated Polk County” by establishing “responsibilities for property owners to maintain drainage facilities and swales located within adjacent public rights-of-way,” wrote Randall Vogel, Assistant County Attorney.
 
The revised standards would “clarify regulations surrounding prohibited overgrowth, the accumulation of junk and debris, the securing of vacant structures, and the mandatory safety barriers for aquatic features,” to “address neighborhood blight, life-safety hazards, and infrastructure protection,” he elaborated.
 
During the public comment period, one resident argued that several of the proposed regulations were overly broad and subjective, warning that their enforcement could unintentionally do more harm than good. He said that, as written, the language could even be interpreted to prohibit residents from growing garden vegetables and other edible plants.
 
That resident, Kyle Roy, pointed to a specific provision barring grasses and annual plants (except for wooded plants used in intentional landscaping) from exceeding 18 inches in height. Roy said that the threshold could prevent him from cultivating certain crops he intends to grow, including barley, corn, goat grass, millet, sorghum, and wheat.
 
Roy noted that most of the other rules governing rights-of-way and drainage easements were clearly defined, as was the code enforcement process. His concern centered on the definition of “prohibited overgrowth,” which he felt was too vague and open to interpretation to be enforced consistently.
 
“In general, I like it when rules are clearly defined, and that’s why I have a small problem with the definition of prohibited overgrowth,” he said. “I know what you are thinking: as long as they are not unkempt, it is fine, but I respectfully disagree. Because the word unkempt is a subjective term. The last time I checked, this is a county government, not an HOA. I would appreciate it if we kept our rules based on matters of fact, not matters of opinion.”
 
The specific provision reads: “On the general areas of a lot (excluding those areas covered above), any unkept dead or living plant, including but not limited to weeds, grasses, undergrowth, and annual plants (excluding trees and shrubs that are part of Intentional Landscaping and do not pose a hazard, that is uncultivated and has grown to exceed eighteen (18) inches in height, subject to the specific limitation outline in this Ordinance.”
 
Roy proposed the following revision: “On the general areas of a lot (excluding those areas covered above), any dead or living plant that has grown to eighteen inches in height and is not a part of Intentional Landscaping, or poses a hazard.”
 
Commissioner and Vice Chair Bill Braswell commented that while he did not “necessarily see the difference” between the original and revised provision, he felt the concern “made sense” and agreed to have the ordinance revisited at a future meeting.
 
“I don’t think we will cut down tomato plants; it was never the intent,” he said.
 
Commissioner Mike Scott commended the resident for bringing up the concern constructively, saying that such feedback proved valuable to the overall legislative process.
 
“I want to thank you for bringing this up,” he said. “That is part of how we govern, which is to get their input.”

Expanding Industrial Space and Infrastructure Could Put Lake Wales on a “Pathway to Prosperity,” Study Shows

Allison
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Expanding Industrial Space and Infrastructure Could Put Lake Wales on a “Pathway to Prosperity,” Study Shows

Expanding Industrial Space and Infrastructure Could Put Lake Wales on a “Pathway to Prosperity,” Study Shows

by James Coulter

Lake Wales faces a pivotal moment. To secure equitable growth and long‑term prosperity, the city must capitalize on its airport, expand its limited industrial land, strengthen supporting infrastructure, and improve environmental and stormwater resilience. That was the key message delivered to city commissioners during a recent briefing from the Central Florida Regional Planning Council.

During their work session late last month, Lake Wales city commissioners were given a presentation outlining how the city, along with the broader southern part of Polk County, could tap into new “Pathways to Prosperity.”

Blake Drury, AICP, said the plan aims to transform the city’s major transportation corridors into “a resilient, connected, and economically strong regional network” by “integrating industrial development, multimodal infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.”

Over 848 square miles of southwest Polk County were studied, focusing on a two‑mile‑wide corridor along State Road 60, US Highway 17, and US Highway 27. From that analysis, six major issues emerged, chief among them a shortage of industrial land and space.

The study identified 14,000 acres designated for industrial use, with 7,190 acres already zoned industrial, though roughly half of that land remains vacant. Stakeholders also “expressed concern” that industrially zoned land near “strategic assets” like airports and logistics centers is increasingly being converted to residential use.

“There is a need to use the corridor to reinforce industrial/commercial land use to prevent incompatible encroachment,” the presentation noted.

The shortage of industrial space is even more severe. The study found a “widespread shortage” of usable buildings, many of them “outdated or poorly maintained.” Of the 16.6 million square feet of industrial space in the study area, only 5.1 million square feet have been built since 2004, and just 198,000 square feet have come online during that period.

Drury said the Economic Development Council hears the same story repeatedly: businesses want to move, but the region could not provide space quickly enough.

“We do not have the inventory in this part of the county to help them,” he said. “If someone wants to bring their business to Lake Wales, there’s simply not much space to put them.”

The study also highlighted the region’s limited ability to support emerging industries. Airports could serve as major “economic anchors,” taking on “increasingly diverse roles in business travel, logistics, and advanced manufacturing,” but coordination and annexation issues continue to hold back that potential.

Infrastructure gaps further complicate growth. Transportation, electricity, and broadband service remain inconsistent, with some areas having up to 12 broadband providers and others far fewer. Environmental and stormwater resilience also pose challenges, particularly around the Peace River and Peace Creek.

To address these issues, the study recommends:

  • expanding industrial areas near Bartow Airport, the Intermodal Logistics Center, and Lake Wales Airport;
  • improving roadway connections to relieve chokepoints and reduce truck traffic in neighborhoods;
  • coordinating with TECO, Duke Energy, and broadband providers to expand capacity;
  • and adopting flood‑resilient design standards that encourage green infrastructure.

The city could implement these strategies directly, either fully through its local government, through public‑private partnerships, or by offering incentives to encourage private‑sector investment.

Commissioner Carol Gillespie asked who would directly benefit from the study. Drury said the findings lay out a broad set of needs for the city—most importantly, positioning it to pursue new opportunities for state and federal grants.

“Having this plan in place makes you eligible for other grants,” he said. “So, it opens up other opportunities for funding sources that are out there right now.”

Commissioner Terri Miller asked for examples of other cities that have implemented similar strategies. Drury explained that the study focuses on needs specific to Lake Wales, making its recommendations uniquely tailored to the area and not directly comparable to other cities.

 “You have a bespoke vision,” he said.

Polk County High School Football Preview Week 2 

Ethan Jones
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Polk County High School Football Preview Week 2 

By Ethan Jones

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Polk County High School Football Preview Week 2

After an action-packed opening week of high school football across Polk County, teams now turn their attention to Week 2 with plenty still to prove. Some programs are looking to build on strong Week 1 performances, while others are searching for a bounce-back win after a tough start to the season. With rivalries, talented players, and important early-season matchups on the schedule, Week 2 is shaping up to bring another exciting Friday night of football to Polk County. With that being said, here are some of the games to keep an eye on this week.

Lake Gibson at Haines City

Starting off we have Lake Gibson at Haines City where Lake Gibson is trying to rebound after a 27-6 loss to Tampa Bay Tech and Haines City is coming off a close win to Indian Rocks Christian where they won 26-24. Heading into this game, both teams have something to prove. For Lake Gibson they are trying to put the last game behind them and turn the page as they look for their first win of the season. For Haines City, they are hoping to carry their momentum from the last game and move to 2-0.

The reason why this will be a good game to watch is because for both teams it will be an early test. For Lake Gibson, their schedule this season includes several tough and notable opponents, which is why it is crucial for them to get into the win column sooner rather than later. For Haines City, it will be a chance to display who they are in front of their fans in their first home game. When it comes to my prediction for this game, I have Lake Gibson coming out with the win. The reason why I have Lake Gibson winning this game is because of the pressure that they are able to put on opposing offenses as well as their passing attack which recorded 170 total passing yards against a talented Tampa Bay Tech team. Despite Haines City being at home, I don’t see them being able to get to 2-0.

Prediction: Lake Gibson 21, Haines City 10.

Discovery at George Jenkins

The next game I would keep an eye out for would have to be Discovery at George Jenkins. George Jenkins is coming off a dominant 33-7 win against Mulberry and is hoping to continue their momentum in their home opener against Discovery. For Discovery they are looking to rebound after a disappointing 43-0 loss against Cocoa beach. The reason why this will be a good game to watch is because currently both teams are trending in a different direction and it will be interesting to see if they continue to go on the same path that they are on or if it will change after this game, will Discovery respond from their rough start or will George Jenkins be able to capitalize off their momentum. When it comes to my prediction for this game, I have George Jenkins coming away with a dominant victory. The reason why I have George Jenkins winning this game is because of their dynamic and explosive offense as well as their advantage of being at home.

Prediction: George Jenkins 32, Discovery 7.

Ridge Community at Auburndale

Lastly, I would suggest keeping an eye out for Ridge Community at Auburndale. Auburndale is heading into their season opener as they did not face anyone in week 1 and are looking to give their fans something to cheer about as they start the season. As for their opponent Ridge Community they are looking to make up for their 28-0 loss to Sebring. The reason why this game will be a good game to watch is because it will be more likely than not an even playing field for both teams as they are looking to establish themselves and each looking for their first win. When it comes to my prediction, I have Auburndale winning a fairly close game. The reason why I have Auburndale winning this game is because they are playing at home, and I believe their defense will be able to make things difficult for Ridge Community. The Bolts are coming off a 21-0 loss to Sebring, so I expect them to come out looking to prove that Week 1 was not a reflection of what this team can do. Even with that being said, I think Auburndale will make enough plays on both sides of the ball to come away with the win. Overall, these week 2 games should be able to give us a better picture of where these teams are at and where they are heading as their seasons progresses.

Prediction: Auburndale 27, Ridge Community 17.

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