LAKES PARK ANNOUNCED:
A NEW ERA FOR BASEBALL IN WINTER HAVEN WITH A NOD TO ITS RICH HISTORY

Winter Haven, FL – The City of Winter Haven is excited to unveil plans for the redevelopment of the historic Chain of Lakes Park. As the former spring training home for major league baseball teams like the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians, this site is poised to embrace a bright future while honoring its illustrious past. In partnership with Polk County and the Polk County Sports Marketing team, the City is spearheading a $20 million project that promises to transform the park into a state-of-the-art facility for amateur and collegiate baseball, infused with the spirit and memories of its historic legacy.

A Commitment to Heritage and Innovation:

Understanding the importance of the park’s history to our community, the redevelopment team is dedicated to preserving elements of the park’s past. Notably, efforts are being made to salvage and restore stadium seating, allowing these pieces of history to find new life in the revamped facility. This initiative reflects our commitment to blending the park’s rich heritage with modern amenities, ensuring that the legacy of Chain of Lakes Park continues to live on, both in spirit and in physical form.

Project Highlights:

·         Construction Timeline: Demolition of current structures was set to begin April 8, lasting approximately six weeks. Construction will commence by late summer. This marks the first step in realizing the vision for a modernized park.

·         Park Features: The redevelopment will introduce four collegiate-level artificial turf baseball fields, along with cutting-edge facilities like dugouts, batting cages, team pavilions, fan areas, expanded parking, and more.

·         Opening in Time for Russmatt Baseball Tournament: The facilities are slated to open in February 2025, just in time to host the Russmatt Baseball tournament, underscoring the park’s ongoing commitment to amateur baseball.

·         Enhanced Visitor Experience: By Summer 2025, a new entrance building will enhance the visitor experience with amenities such as ticket booths, a concession area, restrooms, and team rooms.

·         Preserving Our Past for Future Generations: In addition to the physical redevelopment of the park, the City is exploring opportunities for community members to keep a piece of the stadium’s history. This initiative aims to allow citizens to own a tangible part of the park’s legacy, further strengthening the bond between the community and this iconic site. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to the city’s website and social media channels for more information on how they can participate in this opportunity.

Looking Ahead:

Future phases of the redevelopment plan include adding a playground, multipurpose field area, lake shoreline activation, and a boardwalk, enhancing the park’s appeal and utility for generations to come.

The City of Winter Haven, together with Polk County and the Polk County Sports Marketing team, is excited to lead this landmark project. By honoring the park’s storied past while looking forward to its dynamic future, we are committed to enriching our community’s sports and recreational culture and providing a vibrant, inclusive space for all to enjoy.

At approximately 11:15 a.m. today, Winter Haven Fire personnel responded to the Winter Haven Regional Airport after an aircraft landed on a runway without landing gear engaged.
The plane landed safely and there were no injuries to anyone on the plane or on the ground. There was no fuel leak and no other hazardous situations.

I do not have any information regarding the aircraft itself or how many people were on board at this time. 

We are very thankful there were no injuries and the incident didn’t evolve into a more serious situation.

No further details expected

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

Winter Haven Man Arrested After Being Pulled Over On a Spray-Painted black Motorcycle With No License Plate

On Tuesday afternoon, April 9th, at around 2:00 PM, a deputy noticed a black Yamaha motorcycle exiting the parking lot of the Citgo & Star Mart store at US 17 and Bomber Road in Bartow.

The motorcycle looked suspicious–it had been spray-painted black and it had no license plate.

A traffic stop was conducted, and the deputy made contact with the driver, who was identified as 28-year old Kasey Burry of Winter Haven.

Kasey did not have a motorcycle endorsement. In fact, Kasey didn’t even have a valid driver’s license.

The deputy inquired about the motorcycle.

Kasey said it had been purchased by a guy named “Charlie.” Of course, he had no last name for Charlie, and no address for Charlie.

Kasey also didn’t have a title for the motorcycle.

A VIN plate was missing from the wheel fork, and a VIN sticker had been grinded off.

Kasey Burry was arrested and taken to the Polk Pokey where he was charged with: Possession of a Vehicle without VIN, Possession of Methamphetamine and Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While License Suspended/Revoked (3rd Subsequent Offence), No Motorcycle Endorsement, and Unregistered Vehicle. Additional charges are possible.

Kasey doesn’t have a big criminal history…just minor stuff…so he isn’t what we would classify as a “prolific” criminal, despite what his tattoo says. Or should say, anyway. We assume that’s the word he was going for.

City of Auburndale, Government Florida

Auburndale Police Lieutenant John Cruz of the Special Operations Division knew he wanted to pursue law enforcement when he was a kid. The reason? His parents would share inspiring stories from their jobs at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Now, after being recognized at a City Commission meeting for his 20 years of service and dedication, Lt. Cruz has amassed his own stories from the profession.

Born and raised in Polk County, Lt. Cruz graduated from Mulberry High School in 2001. Following studies at the University of South Florida, he graduated from the Police Academy in December 2003.

Reflecting on his journey, Lt. Cruz said: “To be honest, I did not know much about Auburndale at the time. Then I ran into one of my police academy instructors, and he pointed me to Auburndale. So I went, applied, and met Chief Dean Longo, and was given a career.” Lt. Cruz joined the Auburndale Police Department in 2004.

Lt. Cruz expressed his time in K-9 as the most memorable of his career. It helped him understand multi-agency teamwork. “I could always count on other police officers from different departments. When they say law enforcement is a family, it truly is. All you need to do is ask for help, and everyone able to help will help,” Lt. Cruz said.

Lt. Cruz also worked as a School Resource Officer at Stambaugh Middle School.

Working in law enforcement will make you recognizable in the community, even off duty. Lt. Cruz discussed how he is sometimes greeted while grocery shopping, or at dinner. However, there was one instance that stuck out: “While on a vacation cruise in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico, I was surprised to hear my name called. Turns out, there was a student onboard from Stambaugh Middle who recognized me.”

His time as a School Resource Officer provided deeply fulfilling experiences, especially as he witnesses former students grow into successful adults.

For newcomers starting their own journey in law enforcement, Lt. Cruz has this advice to share: “You get out of this career what you put into it. Use common sense. We are here to serve the community and to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Also, and this is very important, leave the stress of work at work, do not bring it home.”

From bubble lights on top of police cars no longer being the norm to the emergence of powerful technologies, law enforcement has changed tremendously since Lt. Cruz started 20 years ago. “There have been many changes. For example, nationwide communication networks have drastically improved. Within minutes, we can contact a police department on the other side of the country if we need information for a case.”

Lt. Cruz wanted to emphasize the importance of two positive changes, starting with mental health awareness. “No one ever promised this job would be easy. I’m grateful for the tremendous support we’re given from the administration and community.” The second positive change has been more community-oriented policing.

Police officers often tirelessly strive, working day and night, sacrificing days off, putting in overtime, and more, to solve an active investigation. Lt. Cruz said he sees this dedication firsthand and wanted to commemorate his fellow officers. He mentioned the administration’s support has been instrumental. Here is one of many examples: during major investigations that require early mornings and late nights, the administration has taken their own time to cook breakfast or provide lunches or dinners for officers.

What about the future of law enforcement? Lt. Cruz had this to say: “Change is inevitable as time goes on. This is why we must analyze trends in emerging technologies that criminals could exploit. One aspect of law enforcement that will never change is our commitment to protect the community, and we will do that no matter how the times may shift.” Personally, Lt. Cruz will continue to serve with the Auburndale Police Department for the foreseeable future. With his 20 years of experience, he will continue to be a great team member.

Transitioning leadership is a common occurrence in many jobs. For Lt. Cruz, he has worked under six police chiefs, each one with their own style of leadership. “You learn to adapt. These transitional times are blessings in disguise because I was able to learn from each chief and adopt practices that have shaped my career.”

In closing, Lt. Cruz expresses gratitude to the city administration, the current police administration for their encouragement, Chief Dean Longo for, quote, ‘giving a kid a chance’, fellow department members (past and present), and the community for their support. Lastly, he wanted to say a special thank you: “Thank you to my family for all the support you’ve given to me over the years and continue to give me.  You are the rock that keeps me going.”

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Auburndale Police Lieutenant John Cruz for his unwavering support to the City of Auburndale. His 20 years of service stand as a testament to his dedication and commitment, and we are eager to see how his career will continue to progress.

The Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven Receives 40th AED Donated by Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation

by James Coulter

As a former veteran and emergency medical technician (EMT), Tom Westberry knows how vital it is to respond to a person suffering cardiac arrest or any other similar medical emergency.

So, as the President of the Board of Directors at The Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven, he appreciates having an automated external defibrillator (AED) donated to his facility.

“I feel blessed to be given this life-saving device for our future patrons,” he said. “As a former veteran and EMT. The first hour or Golden Hour is crucial in saving someone’s life. This device can be the difference between life and death.”

The Ritz Theatre was the proud recipient of the 40th AED donated by Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation, a local non-profit organization dedicated to assisting local emergency responders and donating AEDs across the county.

“The Ritz Theatre is blessed to be given the 40th unit,” Westberry said. “The Ritz Theatre is downtown’s stage. This building is almost 100 years old and has brought joy to so many over the years. Winter Haven is lucky to have such a magical place downtown.”

Bea Hancock, who has been on the board for four years, and her family have a rich history with the Ritz Theatre. Her uncle, Keith Smith, once performed there in high school in the 1950s.She appreciates the historic theatre receiving such a crucial emergency medical device.

“I feel we’re very fortunate to have received an AED by the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation,” she said. “What a worthwhile and beneficial mission Melanie and the CCF have taken on, offering the chance to prolong life in a variety of places around central Florida.“

Melanie Brown Culpepper started her organization three years ago following the untimely passing of her late fiancée, Michael Culpepper, who had passed away from cardiac arrest. Not wanting anyone else to suffer a similar fate, she started her foundation. She has since donated 40 AEDs to businesses and establishments across the county.

“It was my honor to place our 40th one here at The Ritz Theatre as it is downtown’s stage,” she wrote in a Facebook post. “Winter Haven is lucky to have such a magical place downtown.”

To learn more about Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation, visit their website at: https://www.facebook.com/honoringculpepper

Winter Haven Public Safety Department

Winter Haven Firefighters rescue two people from a mobile home fire in the Four Lakes Golf Retirement Community.
On April 11, 2024 at approximately 7 p.m., Winter Haven firefighters responded to an initial call of a car fire at 1412 Wild Dunes Ct. in Winter Haven. When crews arrived on scene, they found a car under a carport fully engulfed with the flames spreading into the doublewide mobile home. Polk County Fire Rescue also responded for assistance.
As crews began battling the blaze, they were alerted that two people were inside of the home. Winter Haven Fire crews quickly initiated a rescue, ultimately bringing both occupants outside while additional crews continued to battle the flames. Both victims, who were inside of the living room area, were airlifted to a local hospital. They both are considered critical, but in stable condition.
One firefighter was transported to the hospital for dehydration and was released after being medically cleared.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.

UPDATE

Severe Thunderstorm Warning including Tampa FL, Brandon FL and Lakeland FL until 2:00 PM EDT

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original post:
April 11, 2024

The US National Weather Service of Tampa Bay Florida has issued a tornado watch for parts of Florida today, including Polk County. The watch is in effect until 3pm EST. Be sure to stay alert and weather aware today.

A couple tornados are possible as well as isolated hail up to a quarter size.

Wind expected with the possibility of scattered gusts up to 70 MPH.

City of Auburndale, FL Government –

In February 2022, the City Commission endorsed the Conceptual Master Plan for the redevelopment of Lake Ariana Park following an Open House public meeting at the Ariana Clubhouse.  “Mac’s Beach” will be upgraded to make the park even nicer for the residents of Auburndale, and to relocate the downtown Civic Center to Lake Ariana Park.

The scope of the project includes the construction of a new Civic Center building, new boat dock, picnic pavilions, outdoor event space, playground, beach volleyball courts, and parking to accommodate all uses.

Design and Engineering for the Park started in June 2023 and 90% plans were completed in March 2024.  The Design-Build Team, led by Springer Voss Construction, included architect The Lunz Group, landscape architect Catalyst Design Group, and civil engineer Chastain Skillman.

Timeline

Lake Ariana Park will be closed starting on April 29, 2024.  However, the Boat Ramp will remain open throughout construction.  Construction of the park is expected to take about 15 months.

Demolition of the park will start in May 2024 and horizontal construction (earth grading, utilities, etc.) will take several months to complete.  Vertical construction of the Civic Center will begin in the Fall of 2024.

Lake Ariana Park is expected to re-open in the Summer of 2025.

Auburndale Police Department

On February 11th, 2024, a retail theft occurred at the Fantasy Liquor Store at 315 Ramsgate Road, Auburndale, FL.

An Unknown male subject entered the liquor store and selected a Jack Daniel’s Apple 750ml bottle (valued at $26.99). He approached the front counter and stood in line for a few seconds. The subject looked around and then took off running through the front doors without paying for the item. He ran to a gray Nissan (possibly a Maxima or Altima) parked on the property and drove away northbound on Ramsgate Road.

SUSPECT – is described as a White Male with short brown hair, minimal facial hair, last seen wearing a black t-shirt, black knee length shorts, grey tennis shoes, black socks, yellow shirt on his shoulder, and visible tattoos on his right arm.

If you have any information, please contact Officer Maldonado at 863-965-5555 or by email to [email protected]