Judith Mary Elizabeth Varney went home to be with the Lord on Monday June 24, 2024.
In Loving Memory of Judith Mary Elizabeth Varney
Judith was born February 26, 1948.
She devoted her whole life to taking care of her family and all the animals and fish she so lovingly adopted. She did it until the very end.
She married her one true love Robert Varney on February 24, 1968. They have two sons, James Edward Varney (Kimberly) of Kissimmee FL and Michael Gregory Varney (Renee) of Winter Haven FL. She has one grandson, Kenneth Chad Morrison (Bailey) of Kissimmee, Fl.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Varney of Kissimmee, FL: her father, Alexander Simpson: her mother, Mary Simpson: her younger brother, William Simpson all of Sheffield MA. She is survived by her sisters, Eileen Clarke (Frank) of Sheffield, MA and Nancy O’Brien (Larry) also of Sheffield, MA; and sister-in-law, Sharlene Simpson of Sheffield Ma. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Judith will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation back in 2022 regarding a possible inappropriate sexual relationship between a Bradenton man and a minor. Allegedly, the two met up over two dozen times and engaged in various sexual activities when they met up. After a thorough investigation, a forensic interview and a clarification interview, the suspect, Robert Jacobus (W/M, 08-08-1994) was arrested.
Jacobus was charged with one (1) count of Lewd Battery and one (1) count of Travel to Meet a Minor.
It should be noted that this is an unedited report of facts by Polk County Sheriff’s Office. These facts are up for question and everyone is entitled to question the validity of facts by law enforcement in a court of law. Winter Haven Daily does not rewrite these facts as some meanings or interpretations could be in error and change context. We hope readers appreciate being able to read the information and come to your own conclusion.
“On 03/23/2022 the Polk County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation involving a possible inappropriate sexual in nature relationship between the victim, REDACTED (who was 15 years at time) and the suspect, Robert Jacobus (27 years old at the time). The initial follow up investigation was conducted by Detective Watson #8459. This case was reassigned to me on 12/07/2023.
On 04/21/2022, a forensic interview was conducted with the victim at the Children’s Advocacy Center located 1260 Golfview Ave, Bartow, Florida. During the forensic interview the victim disclosed REDACTED met the suspect while playing “airlift” in Lithia, FL. The victim advised REDACTED met the suspect near the beginning of 2021-2022 school year. The victim stated REDACTED and the suspect would communicate via social media, phone calls and text. The victim advised sometime between October and December their conversation changed from friendly chat to more when he began to talk about his ex-girlfriend. The victim stated the suspect would tell REDACTED that he would support REDACTED and be there for anything REDACTED needed. The victim advised REDACTED calls the suspect telling REDACTED was pretty but too young. The victim stated the suspect purchased Christmas gifts for REDACTED, snacks and other stuff for school because REDACTED’s parent were struggling with money. The victim stated the suspect lives somewhere between Brandon and Sarasota. The victim advised the suspect gave REDACTED two phones in case REDACTED needed to contact him. The victim described REDACTED relationship with the suspect as “dating”. The victim advised REDACTED and the suspect did “sext” and discussed having sex, kissing and “stuff”.
Using investigative resources I located Robert Jacobus (W/M, 08-08-1994) with an address of REDACTED Bradenton, Florida 34203.
Robert Jacobus (W/M, 08-08-1994) arrested
On 04/30/2024 Detective Roman #7883 responded to REDACTED with and presented a photo pack to the victim where REDACTED positively identified Robert Jacobus as the suspect.
05/01/2024 I responded to REDACTED Bradenton, Florida 34203 and conducted a post Miranda interview with Robert Jacobus.
Robert admitted to meeting the victim while playing “airsoft.” Robert stated he communicated with the victim via a phone he provided REDACTED and met up with REDACTED 5-7 times between approximately the end of 2021 to March 2022. The suspect stated he and the victim would always meet in the early hours of the morning between approximately 0100-0200 hours.
The suspect admitted to traveling in (a vehicle he no longer owns) his silver Chevy Cruz from his residence which at the time was located at REDACTED Palmetto, Florida 33421 to a road near where the victim lived within Polk County. The suspect stated the victim would sneak out of REDACTED house, meet him on the side of the road near REDACTED house where he would pick REDACTED up and drive REDACTED to a nearby plaza, McDonalds (approximately three miles away from REDACTED house), or the park (approximately five miles away from REDACTED house) nearby. The suspect stated the plaza was down the road from REDACTED residence.
The suspect stated the victim did try to “make a move” on him multiple times but at first he did not feel comfortable. The suspect stated initially he did not allow the victim “to go for more” because he wasn’t “ready.” The suspect described the victim acting like “a dog in heat” moaning. The suspect stated he was “overwhelmed” by the victim’s “distinctive aroma” coming from REDACTED vaginal area. The suspect stated he eventually gave in and allowed the victim to have REDACTED way by having vaginal/penile sexual intercourse with REDACTED.
The suspect stated the last time he met up with the victim he “slipped up” and had sexual intercourse with REDACTED.
The suspect stated the incident occurred while they were parked near a plaza (two miles down the road from where he picked the victim up). The suspect described the plaza located on Havendale Blvd (Hwy 544) and 42nd Street. Per the suspect, the victim pulled down REDACTED clothing, pulled his pants down, got on top of him, and the two engaged in vaginal/penile sexual intercourse after he placed a condom on himself. The suspect stated the victim “rode” him until REDACTED was satisfied. The suspect then admitted to another incident where he and the victim engaged in sexual intercourse but stated he could not confirm.
The suspect stated the victim sent him a photograph of REDACTED “full body naked.” The suspect advised he did not think he asked the victim for the photograph and REDACTED just sent it to him on REDACTED own.
I informed the suspect that the victim was 15 years old at the time when he was 26-27 years old. The suspect admitted that perhaps he did not want to “proceed” with the victim because of “how young REDACTED looked.”
05/31/2024 I responded to REDACTED and conducted a clarification interview with the victim. The victim stated REDACTED and the suspect had contact and met with the suspect approximately 30 times. The victim stated REDACTED would sneak out of REDACTED house between 0100 and 0200 hours in the morning and meet the suspect down the road from REDACTED residence where he would pick REDACTED up and drive them to the parking lot of the McDonalds plaza (located at 498 Havendale Blvd, Auburndale). The victim stated the suspect lived and traveled from possibly Bradenton or Brandon (Sarasota area) to visit and pick REDACTED up during the time of the incidents.
The victim stated while REDACTED and the suspect were in the vehicle in the parking lot REDACTED and the suspect would engage in “sexual stuff” like kissing, vaginal/penile sexual intercourse, and REDACTED would perform oral sex on him by putting his “dick” in REDACTED mouth. The victim advised REDACTED and the suspect engaged in sexual activity approximately twenty times out of the thirty times they met. The victim stated before meeting the suspect REDACTED would communicate with him using her laptop computer and or the cell phone he provided REDACTED with to make the arrangements. The victim stated REDACTED does not remember the phone number to the phone the suspect provided REDACTED with but it was a phone number he added to his phone plan.
The victim advised the last time sexual activity occurred between REDACTED and the suspect was approximately a week and a half before REDACTED attended the forensic interview at the Children’s Advocacy Center in Bartow (04/21/2022).
The victim admitted to not disclosing everything during the forensic interview because REDACTED was trying to “defend” the suspect at the time.
At the conclusion of my investigation, I determined there is probable cause to charge the suspect, Robert Jacobus with violating one (1) count of Lewd Battery F.S.S. 800.04(4)(A), and one (1) count of Travel to Meet a Minor F.S.S. 847.0135(4)(A), The suspect, Robert Jacobus was 27 years old and the victim, REDACTED was 15 years old during the time when the incidents occurred.”
A 43-year old Winter Haven man is in the Polk County Jail after it was discovered that he surreptitiously photographed a nude 15-year old girl without her knowledge while she was in his bathroom.
Domingo Rivera Velez was arrested by PCSO detectives on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at his residence. He was charged with Video Voyeurism (F2).
Domingo Rivera Velez arrested
The photos were discovered by another person in the household, who noticed a photo of an unknown woman on his cell phone. When this person looked at other saved images on another phone, a large number of images were discovered of the teenaged victim who had been visiting the home.
During an interview with detectives, Rivera Velez admitted that he took the photos using a digital watch left in the bathroom.
PCSO detectives obtained search warrants for the other phone and the residence. They subsequently discovered additional photos and videos that were taken in other bathrooms in other residences, as well as videos that were taken from floor-level at a Home Depot store. The target of the store videos were women in skirts and dresses.
Rivera Velez told detectives that he is employed at the Home Depot store in south Lakeland.
“This investigation is ongoing. Our detectives have more people to speak with, and the seized electronic devices will be forensically searched for additional images and videos. If you have had suspicious encounters with Domingo Rivera Velez, contact our detectives at 863-298-6200, and let them know about it. He needs to be held accountable for his criminal conduct.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
Local Mamas, if you have a child with Autism or know of someone who does, please share this new support group information with them as we hope to grow.
This group is for Mamas of children with Autism of ALL ages and stages. We can all learn something from each other.
Also please request to be added to the additional FB group for any information that may pop-up between meetings.
Local Residents Raise Concerns about Potential Traffic Issue with Proposal to Build 100 Residential Units along Havendale Boulevard
by James Coulter
Nearly 100 multi-family residential units have been proposed for a vacant 13-acre parcel located at 800 Havendale Boulevard with a commercial shopping center and associated parking. However, many residents have raised concerns that the proposed development may exacerbate traffic issues in that area.
At their regular meeting on Mon. June 24, Winter Haven City Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a request by a local developer to amend a portion of Planned Unit Development PUD Ordinance to help facilitate the proposed development at 800 Havendale Boulevard.
Landmark Investments, Inc. had petitioned the request to amend the PUD as, according to the city staff memo, the current PUD “does not allow multi-family residential.” Currently, the northern portion of the parcel “is designated as Commercial- Highway (C-3) zoning district.”
“The current PUD Ordinance is 35-years-old, contains references to obsolete zoning districts pertaining to permitted uses, and does not provide development standards,” the memo states. “Staff proposes to provide updated permitted uses and development standards for the existing developed commercial portion to align with current standards and zoning districts.”
However, many residents spoke against the proposal, claiming that the development could further exacerbate traffic issues, specifically at the intersection of Havendale Boulevard and US Highway 17.
Mary Maravich, a former public employee, claimed that the staff’s recommendation was based on outdated traffic data that no longer reflects the traffic activity and issues within that area. As such, she implored the city to consider conducting another traffic study.
She mentioned how a previous study claimed the area would be “a high crash area” and “a safety concern.” Since then, the renovations there have “created more traffic.”
“They closed the median at the intersection at MLK and 6th Steet,” she explained. “So, it is now forcing everyone in condos and the Winter Haven Harbor Condos to utilize US 17. So, I think is good to have a traffic study today, as [traffic] has increased.”
Another resident, Betty Hoffman, mentioned how the intersection at Havendale Boulevard and US Highway 17 is constantly congested, to the point where she often cannot even get into her condominium at certain times of the day. She even went so far as to personally invite the city commissioners to her apartment to see how bad the traffic is there.
“I have a beautiful view going into that mall off of US 17, and I would like to invite you all,” she said. “I invite you to come to my place and get a beautiful view of how much traffic is on there and how many cars go into the center lane going north at certain times of the day…I invite you and will serve you lunch, whatever it takes for you to come to my house and see the traffic…Whatever it takes.”
Lakeland Fire Department is hiring Firefighter EMT/Paramedics.
Job Description:
Prior to submitting an application for employment as a Firefighter, you must successfully complete the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) and FireTEAM assessments offered at http://www.nationaltestingnetwork.com.
Please be sure to choose City of Lakeland Fire Department as your department selection when completing the NTN application process. For more information, click on the Fire Department Requirements link at the bottom of the posting.
Candidates must complete both the FireTEAM and CPAT through National Testing Network by July 22, 2024. Interviews will be conducted in August 2024. Lakeland Fire Department will only accept CPAT scores from the National Testing Network.
All required documents must be submitted by July 22, 2024 at 4:00 pm. It is preferred that applicants upload the documents with the application; however, you may mail them to Civil Service, 500 N. Lake Parker Avenue, Lakeland, Florida 33801. You may also email them to: [email protected]. NO FAXES will be accepted.
Required Documents:
High School/College Diploma or Unofficial Transcripts
State of Florida Certificate of Compliance for a Firefighter
Valid State of Florida Emergency Medical Technician or Paramedic Certification
BLS-CPR certification or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification
Valid Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC)
Works as a member of a combat team in the prevention of fire damage and protection of life and property by combating, extinguishing, and preventing fires. Works as a member of a team in search and rescue operations at the scene of a fire. Performs basic life support initially on his/her own at the scene of an emergency under the direction of a licensed physician. Salary Information: *Firefighter EMT – $18.94-$27.42 Hourly $51,200- $74,153 Annually *Must possess and maintain a valid state of Florida Paramedic License within three (3) years of employment
**Firefighter Paramedic – $22.09-$32.00 Hourly $59,745-$86,528 Annually ** Paramedic pay is contingent on the successful completion of Paramedic Orientation and Medical Director approval.
Effective October 1, 2024: 3 Week/24-Hour Kelly Day
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
-Responds to fires and operates various fire equipment such as hose lines and rescue tools.
-Performs emergency operations during natural disasters and catastrophic events.
-Donning and use of self-contained breathing apparatus.
-Ventilates burning buildings to carry off smoke and gases.
-Removes and rescues persons from danger.
-Administers patient care at the level of an Emergency Medical Technician.
-Performs salvage operations such as placing salvage covers, sweeping water, and removing debris.
-Inspects fire equipment to verify proper operation, refuels equipment, and reports needed maintenance.
-Attends instruction sessions on firefighting methods, equipment, first aid, and other related operations.
-Performs water rescue operations with boat.
-Responds to callback in emergency situations.
-Responds to hazardous material incidents at a first responder operational level.
-Participates in pre-emergency planning.
-Assists other related emergency personnel as required.
May be required to work overtime or alternate hours as necessary for the efficient operation of the department.
Position is designated as Mission Critical.
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS:
-Performs general maintenance and cleaning work in the upkeep of stations.
-May be required to act as step-up driver engineer as needed.
-Performs related work as required.
QUALIFICATIONS (EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE)
-High school diploma from an accredited school or its equivalent.
-Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida certification of compliance for a firefighter.
-Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida emergency medical technician license or State of Florida Paramedic License.
-Must possess and maintain BLS-CPR certification or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.
-Must possess a valid Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC).
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
-Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida Paramedic License within three (3) years
-Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida driver’s license.
-Must maintain a valid telephone number.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES
-Knowledge of fire department operations, fire prevention inspections, operations of firefighting apparatus, and proper use of equipment and tools.
-Skill in the use and manipulation of tools and apparatus used in firefighting.
-Skill in mechanical and mental aptitude as required.
-Ability to learn through training a wide variety of firefighting duties and methods.
-Ability to speak, write, and follow oral and written instructions.
-Ability to readily acquire knowledge of the street systems and physical layout of the city.
-Ability to successfully complete subscribed courses relating to fire and EMS services, including the
Personnel Qualification Standards Program (PQS).
-Ability to respond quickly to changing situations under emergency pressures.
-Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other city employees, and the general public.
-Ability to meet department objective of enhanced customer service by participating in community service functions.
-Ability to utilize the computer to complete required reports.
-Skill in mechanical aptitude as required operating and maintaining firefighting and rescue equipment.
-Physical ability to perform job requirements.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
-Requires heavy work that involves constantly lifting, pushing, or raising objects, exerting 50 to 75 pounds on a recurring basis and exerting 100 pounds of force on a frequent basis.
-The job risks exposure to the following environmental hazards: bright/dim light, dusts, pollen, extreme heat/cold, wet/humid conditions, extreme noise levels, fumes, noxious odors, traffic, moving machinery, electrical shock, heights, disease/pathogens, toxic/caustic chemicals, explosives, and violence.
-The job requires normal visual acuity, field of vision, hearing, speaking, color perception, sense of taste, sense of smell, depth perception, and texture perception.
All City of Lakeland positions are subject to testing (e.g. written, oral, performance, computerized, interview and/or any combination). Candidates selected for testing will be notified via email or telephone. Please check your email and telephone messages regularly, including “junk” folders. Test times and locations to be announced.
The City of Lakeland is a drug free workplace. This position is considered a mandatory testing position, which is subject to pre-employment and random drug testing. All City of Lakeland positions are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing. As a condition of employment, you will be required to pass the pre-employment drug test in accordance with Florida Statute 440.102.
THE CITY OF LAKELAND IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/EQUAL ACCESS EMPLOYER AND A DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
Auburndale Fire Department and Polk County Fire Rescue responded to a structure fire on June 26, 2024 on the 200th block of Pike Street in Auburndale.
The call came in at 10:08 am and several units were assigned to the scene.
Units assigned:
AT019
BC002
BC005
BC420
EN005
EN018
EN421
FC421
LD421
MD016
MD216
SF501
SQ007
TE421
Upon arrival to the residential structure fire, fire crews found a minor fire in the attic.
From Auburndale Fire Department:
“In summary there was a small smoldering fire in the attic that consisted primarily of burning insulation and small areas of wood. Crews were able to access the attic space and extinguish with a water can fire extinguisher. They also removed small bits of smoldering.”
There were no injuries and no patients were transported from the scene. The scene was cleared roughly 2 hours later.
Polk County Parks and Recreation is looking for full-time recreation coordinators to join our team.
Polk County Parks and Recreation Hiring Recreation Coordinator
RECREATION COORDINATOR I, II, III (Parks and Natural Resources) Pay: Recreation Coordinator I: $16.85/hr. ($35,048.00 annually) Recreation Coordinator II: $18.58/hr. ($38,646.40 annually) Recreation Coordinator III: $20.49/hr. ($42,619.20 annually) Shift: Monday – Saturday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (40 hours/week) Two Locations Available:
-Wilfred Smith Resource Center: 135 Avenue Y NE, Winter Haven
-Wabash Resource Center: 1230 Southern Ave. Lakeland, FL 33815 Health Benefits Package, Including Paid Holidays Must have the physical, developmental and mental ability to perform job tasks, work efforts, responsibilities, and duties of the job illustrated below:
ILLUSTRATED DUTIES:
Assist the Recreation Supervisor in the general development and direction of a year-round countywide recreation program for various interest and age groups. Coordinate activities such as the Summer Recreation Program, Polk County Easter Egg Hunts, Cracker Storytelling Festival, Adult Sports Tournaments, Adult Ball Leagues, and additional recreational events and activities as assigned and developed. Develop and coordinate sponsorship program for Parks & Natural Resources special events and programs. Assist with the recruitment and training of volunteers. Assist with the promotion of Parks & Natural Resources special events and programs. Conduct NYSCA clinics resulting in certification of coaches and documentation of these clinics to ensure a higher quality Youth League. Receive and respond to general inquiries, request or complaints from the public concerning recreational programs and activities. Assist in the interviewing, recommending for hiring and any administrative actions of the recreation program staff. Oversee staff as required. Oversee the operation of youth sports organizations that contract and utilize Polk County’s facilities. This is to include contracts, schedules, insurance requirements, coaches training and bylaw compliance. Perform related duties as required.
KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS:
Knowledgeable of a variety of recreational programs and activities. Ability to plan, assign, review and oversee the work of others. Ability to use good judgment in administrative and personnel matters making independent decisions. Ability to display a cooperative attitude and willingness to respond effectively to general public concerns, philosophies and needs within recreational planning, program activities and overall county recreation goals and objectives. Ability to communicate both orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with employees, officials and the public. Ability to lift a minimum of 25 pounds regularly and a minimum of 40 pounds occasionally. Ability to work flexible hours as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Recreation Coordinator I Graduate of an accredited two-year college with major course work in recreation, education, or a related field and have some experience in planning and overseeing recreation programs. Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license within three months of date of employment. A comparable amount of related training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications. Recreation Coordinator II Graduate of an accredited two-year college with major course work in recreation, education, or a related field and have six (6) months experience as a Recreation Coordinator or in an equivalent job classification. Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license within three months of date of employment. A comparable amount of related training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications. Recreation Coordinator III Graduate of an accredited two-year college with major course work in recreation, education, or a related field and have a minimum of two (2) years’ experience as a Parks & Natural Resources professional, including the qualifications of a Recreation Coordinator I and II. Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license within three months of date of employment. A comparable amount of related training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Recreation Coordinator II: Spend a minimum of eight hours becoming familiar with each of the following aspects of the Parks & Natural Resources Services Division: A. Youth Sports B. Special Events C. Parks D. Sponsorships Successfully complete a Customer Service Training course supplied by either the Polk County Personnel Division or another approved instructor. Obtain certification as a NYSCA Clinician.
Recreation Coordinator III: Attendance of at least three FRPA or other professional organization meetings with a minimum of ten field related classes taken. Ability to demonstrate a working knowledge and application of Polk County Parks & Natural Resources Division policies and procedures relative to: A. Parks B. Programming C. Sports Leagues D. Special Events E. Rentals Obtain First Aid and CPR certifications. Maintain NYSCA Clinicians certification by instructing a minimum of one Coach’s Certification Clinic.
Local Bronze-Winning Strongman Becomes Chairman for Florida Strength Games
by James Coulter
Photos provided by Dan Miner
This local strongman won bronze at the World Strength Games even with a torn calf. Now he’ll be supervising the state division as chairman.
Dan Miner, a bronze award-winning weight lifter from Winter Haven, was recently appointed as the Chairman for the Florida Strength Games.
“It is extremely exciting,” Miner said. “It is invigorating. It’s surprising. It’s absolutely amazing. I feel very humbled and very blessed to have this opportunity come my way.”
Ever since he was a little boy, Miner dreamed of competing in the World Strength Games. That dream came true last year when he received the fateful phone call notifying him that he had qualified to compete in the games.
For 15 long weeks, he trained his hardest for the games in Utah. However, trouble struck him in the first event when he tore his right calf. Despite everyone telling him to quit, he never gave up, his perseverance earned him a bronze medal.
Miner remembered when he received the phone call that he would be competing in this year’s games. He could not believe the news. Now that he’s been named the Florida Chairman, he’s doubly in disbelief. Nevertheless, he is proud of his success and owes it all to his hard work, dedication, and the glory of God.
“I think that it’s really just a gift from God,” he said. “It is a blessing. I’ve stayed faithful and loyal. I just kind of done my own thing. I show up to these shows. I do the best job that I do because of my love for the sport.”
Through his career as an amateur weight lifter, he has participated in three games: the Ragnarök Games in 2023, and the World Strength Games in 2023 and 2024. As Chairman, he will oversee The Florida Strength Games, which will serve as a regional qualifier for the World Games.
“I was extremely surprised,” he said. “I didn’t even know that Florida was really on the ballot to be one of the places to have a qualifying show. Florida is a hotbed for Strongmen. We have a lot of good strong guys in the state who competed at national and international levels.”
With the Florida Games being brand new, both Miner and his associates will be treading new territory. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about moving forward. He knows that his experience as a participant and competitor will allow him to make these games the best they can be.
“We are going to have to work on building up that brand and gaining the respect and appreciation of the athletes as well as the sponsors and the spectators,” he said. “We have created a whole other pathway to get the World’s Strongest Man where there was not before and Florida Strength Games will be an integral part of that in bringing athletes from around the world to get to get to that next step.”
Having been interviewed previously by the Daily Ridge through Winter Haven Daily and Chattin on the Ridge, Miner appreciates the attention he has gained through the World Strength Games, and he especially loves the feedback he has received through his media appearances.
“I just want to thank everybody at the Daily Ridge and all of the readers and subscribers for keeping up with the journey,” he said. “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate everyone’s support and positive comments. I read every comment that takes place on the Daily Ridge or Chattin on the Ridge. So, I appreciate all the positive feedback and energy. It is wonderful to see that kind of support.”
To follow Miner’s strength training journey, follow him on Instagram at Big_Daddy_Strength. And to learn more about the World Strength Games, visit their website at: https://ironpodium.com/browse/event/the-world-strength-games-1
The Auburndale Police Department was dispatched to Lowes located at 2301 Highway 92 West in Auburndale, FL. in reference to a past occurred retail theft.
On May 2, 2024, at approximately 5:08pm, an unknown white male entered the business via the garden entrance and proceeded to the seasonal department aisle. The unknown suspect selected a Craftsman 60V Chainsaw (Model# CMCCS660E1) then exited the business via the garden entrance without attempting to pay for the merchandise. The unknown suspect was seen entering a white 2003 Ford Ranger, then leaving the parking lot in an unknown direction.
Suspect – White male, slim build, short gray hair, black/gray beard, last seen wearing a light-colored short sleeve Coca-Cola t-shirt with “CAN’T BEAT The Feeling” on the front, khaki shorts, black sunglasses on top of head, medium size gold chain. He also had a black paracord bracelet on his left wrist with 2 other small light-colored bracelets, and one small bracelet on his right wrist.
If you have any information, please contact Officer Nason at 863-965-5555 or by email at [email protected]
