“We can’t wait to have a night of fun, safe, trick-or-treating! This year’s event will take place on Monday, October 20, 2025, from 5pm until 8pm, along the north and east bank of Lake Mirror and at adjacent Fire Station 1. The event is open to everyone but is targeted to children ages 12 and under. Costumes are super encouraged!
Visitors will get to meet Lakeland firefighters and police officers, trick-or-treat at different fire apparatus and police vehicles, and learn about how to stay healthy and safe at different stops along Lake Mirror and adjacent Fire Station 1. There will be 15+ stops for children to collect candy, Halloween goodies, and safety giveaways.
Be sure to join LPD and LFD on October 20 for a fun night of learning how to have a safe trick-or-treating experience on Halloween night.
Note We have stocked up on lots of candy and goodies, but due to demand, please remember, goodies are first come first served, and while supplies last.”
DETROIT — Ford Motor Company kicked off the final quarter of 2025 on a high note, announcing an 8.2% year-over-year increase in U.S. vehicle sales for the third quarter. The automaker delivered 545,522 units from July through September, surpassing last year’s Q3 total of 504,039 and underscoring sustained consumer appetite for its iconic trucks, versatile SUVs, and growing electrified portfolio.
The results, released Wednesday morning, highlight Ford’s strategic pivot toward hybrid and electric options amid evolving market dynamics, including tariff pressures and shifting buyer preferences. Year-to-date, Ford’s U.S. sales stand at 1,658,908 vehicles, reflecting a solid 7.2% gain over the first nine months of 2024.
Trucks and SUVs Drive the Momentum
Ford’s bread-and-butter segments—trucks and SUVs—continued to anchor the quarter’s success. Truck sales, encompassing pickups and vans, rose 7.4% to 313,654 units, with the F-Series lineup posting 207,732 deliveries—a 4.7% uptick. That brings the F-Series’ year-to-date tally to an impressive 620,580 trucks, outpacing its closest rival by an estimated 170,000 units and solidifying its throne as America’s best-selling truck family.
Ford Super Duty
The compact Maverick pickup also shone, achieving a Q3 record with 34,848 sales (up 9.3%) and 120,904 units year-to-date (up 10.9%). Commercial vans like the Transit surged 32.3% in the quarter to 42,503 units, bolstering Ford’s dominant 43% share in Class 1-7 trucks and vans.
On the SUV front, sales climbed 9.7% to 222,601 vehicles. The redesigned Expedition large SUV delivered its strongest Q3 in two decades, with 21,844 units sold (a 47.4% leap). The Bronco family, including the Bronco Sport, totaled 68,681 sales (up 11.9%), while the Explorer—fresh off a mid-cycle refresh—jumped 33.3% to 55,000 units in Q3, pushing year-to-date figures to 160,929, the highest since 2018.
Ford Expedition
Car sales, though a smaller slice of the pie, edged up 2.5% to 9,267 units, entirely driven by the Mustang’s enduring appeal.
Electrified Vehicles Hit Record Highs
A standout story within the numbers is Ford’s electrified vehicle segment, which accounted for 15.7% of total sales and posted a 19.8% increase to 85,789 units in Q3. This includes 30,612 fully electric vehicles (up 30.2%) and 55,177 hybrids (up 14.7%). Year-to-date, electrified sales reached 242,298—up 16.5%—surpassing the combined totals of rivals General Motors and Stellantis.
The Mustang Mach-E led the EV charge with its best quarter ever at 20,177 units (up 50.7%), while the F-150 Lightning electric pickup moved 10,005 units (up 39.7%), retaining its crown as the top-selling electric truck in America.
“This quarter’s growth showcases our portfolio’s unmatched flexibility and breadth,” said Andrew Frick, president of Ford Blue and Model e. “We saw strong performance in gas, hybrid, and electrified powertrains, while at the same time growing our paid software solutions, all embedded in vehicles such as Expedition, Explorer and F-150.”
Ford also maintained its leadership in fleet and specialty markets, holding a 60.6% share of police vehicle sales (up 9.6 points year-over-year).
Broader Context and What’s Next
The Q3 gains come against a backdrop of economic headwinds, including proposed tariffs on imports and moderating consumer spending. Yet, Ford’s results outpaced the industry’s projected 6.2% Q3 growth, per Cox Automotive forecasts, signaling resilience in its core U.S. operations.
Looking ahead, Ford teased upcoming launches to sustain the momentum. The rugged Explorer Tremor, boasting a 400-horsepower EcoBoost V6 and enhanced off-road prowess, and the street-tuned F-150 Lobo—with its lowered suspension, 5.0-liter V8, and performance styling—are set to hit dealerships in Q4, broadening the brand’s appeal to adventure seekers and urban enthusiasts alike.
As the automotive landscape evolves toward electrification and sustainability, Ford’s balanced approach—blending high-volume trucks with innovative EVs—positions it well for a competitive 2026. Investors and analysts will watch closely for Q4 results, which could cap off a banner year for the Blue Oval.
For more automotive news and analysis, visit DailyRidge.com. This article is based on Ford’s official Q3 sales release and industry reports.
HUDSON, Fla. – A man on Florida’s Gulf Coast is facing animal cruelty charges after authorities say he killed, cooked, and ate two of his pet peacocks.
The 61-year-old Hudson resident, Craig Vogt was arrested last week on a third-degree felony count of aggravated animal cruelty, according to an affidavit from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.
Mug Shot Pasco Corrections
Investigators said the man admitted he killed the birds because a neighbor had been feeding them. In a letter to the neighbor, he allegedly warned that he would “continue to kill his pet peacocks if she kept feeding them ‘to prove a point,’” the affidavit stated. It did not clarify how many peacocks he owned.
According to deputies, the man “admitted to killing the bird by cutting the bird’s neck out of spite, then bleeding it out, and then later eating the bird after cooking it on a frying pan.”
While being transported to jail, he reportedly told deputies he planned to kill the rest of his peacocks after his release so that “no one could take them,” the sheriff’s office report said.
The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office has not yet commented on what will happen to the remaining birds.
Court records show no attorney listed for the man.
Lake Hamilton, FL – September 16, 2025 – The Culpepper Cardiac Foundation (CCF), led by Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke, continues its life-saving mission through its “Pay It Forward” program, equipping local businesses with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). In a heartfelt collaboration, Kimber’s Bar & Grill raised funds to donate an AED to PORT 27, a vibrant new venue at Lake Hamilton, ensuring the safety of its guests and continuing the chain of community support.
Last month, Kimber’s Bar & Grill, owned by Kimberley Mellenthin, hosted a fundraising event featuring several talented musicians from the community. Through weeks of dedicated efforts, including raffles and game nights, they raised enough to “Pay It Forward” by providing an AED to PORT 27. This initiative followed their own selection as a beneficiary by the Lake Wales Moose Lodge several months prior. “We were so excited to become part of this amazing charity,” Mellenthin shared. “We knew we wanted to donate to someone close to us for our first donation, so we chose our new neighbors right down the road at PORT 27. We are so blessed to have this opportunity and to be neighbors.”
PORT 27, which opened on June 5, 2025, is a family-friendly destination founded by Monica and Luis Sosa, who immigrated from Venezuela 13 years ago. The venue, a longtime dream of Luis, brings together stunning architecture, a brewery, diverse food options, a coffee shop, unique stores, and live entertainment, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Hamilton. “It’s a place where families and friends can create memories while enjoying delicious food, drinks, and music,” the Sosas said. The venue has been packed every weekend, with performances like that of The Got UR 6 Band, led by Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke’s husband, leaving a lasting impression. “It was one of our favorite places, with everyone so welcoming and a sunset that was just breathtaking,” Melanie noted. The Sosas are also expanding, with plans to add a restaurant to a lighthouse under construction at the venue.
The donation was made possible through the efforts of Amber Pearce, who works at Kimber’s Bar & Grill, and Debbe Owens, who works at PORT 27. Both women, longtime supporters of CCF, played pivotal roles in raising funds and coordinating the donation. “I met Amber and Debbe several years ago, and they’ve helped with raffle items and benefits for CCF,” Melanie shared. “Amber was a big part in helping raise the money, and Debbe connected me with Luis and Monica to pull this all together.” The Sosas expressed their gratitude: “Having an AED at our location has always been a priority, and receiving one feels like such a privilege and gift to our community. We are truly honored and deeply grateful to Kimber’s Bar & Grill.”
Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke and the CCF Team were praised for their inspiring work. “Melanie turned a tragic experience into something that helps others avoid going through the same,” Mellenthin said. “The ‘Pay it Forward’ idea is beautiful and shows how many of us businesses want to make sure our community is helping each other save lives.” The Sosas added, “Melanie and the CCF Team are an inspiring example of transforming an unfortunate loss into a powerful mission of saving lives. Their passion and dedication are truly admirable.”
The AED demonstration, led by Eric Shimcus, a paramedic with over 24 years of experience at Winter Haven Fire Department, was a highlight of the event. Volunteering his time, Eric provided a clear, hands-on demonstration of the AED, CPR, a choking device, and Narcan for overdose emergencies. “Eric’s demonstration was easy to follow, giving everyone the confidence to use the AED,” the Sosas said. “He went above and beyond, answering every question and helping us mount the equipment.” Mellenthin added, “Eric always does a great job, and we learn something new each time.”
This demonstration also included a new focus on fire safety, with Melanie introducing the importance of carrying a fire extinguisher in vehicles. This addition was in honor of Jolynn, a young girl loved and lost in a car fire in November, and her mother, Logan Deines, through the initiative “For The Love Of JoLynn.” “We want to continue our love for Jolynn and Logan by sharing the importance of saving lives in every way,” Melanie said.
Both businesses are committed to continuing the CCF’s mission. “We look forward to sponsoring the next beneficiary of ‘Pay it Forward’ and continuing the spirit of giving,” the Sosas said. Mellenthin expressed gratitude to the Lake Wales Moose Lodge for including Kimber’s Bar & Grill and to PORT 27 for accepting the donation. “We hope this inspires other organizations to prioritize safety and join the CCF Foundation,” the Sosas concluded. “You have made PORT 27 a safer space for every guest, and that is something we deeply value.”
For more information about the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation and its “Pay It Forward” program, visit Culpepperaed.com. Together, the community is proving that saving lives matters.
One Movie Later: War of the Worlds…Yeah, It’s Really That Bad!
by James Coulter
Since its publication in 1898, H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds has served as the template for alien invasion stories. The novel itself has received countless adaptations, the most infamous being a 1938 radio drama that fooled many listeners into believing it was a real alien invasion.
War of the Worlds has been adapted into film (including two notable movies in 1953 and 2005), video games, and even a rock opera. Now, in 2025, Amazon released its own film adaptation that boldly answers the question: “What if an alien invasion was observed through one person’s computer screen? And alsodoubled as a commercial for Amazon?”
Yes, that premise is as bad as it sounds. And the overwhelming negative reviews prove it. There’s no doubt the movie is one of the worst of the year. So, the question isn’t so much, “Is it bad?” but rather, “How bad is it?”
The film follows William Radford (played by Ice Cube), a DHS agent who spies on American citizens for the sake of national security. In fact, he’s so certain that mass surveillance is necessary that he even uses his job to spy on his own adult children. However, his belief in security over liberty is challenged when the Earth is invaded by aliens, and…well, if you’re familiar with the plot of War of the Worlds, you know how the story unfolds.
This version of War of the Worlds has been adapted into the screenlife subgenre, which tells stories through the perspective of a single computer screen. Screenlife was popularized with movies like Unfriended (which, ironically enough, was produced by the same person who produced this movie). And while movies like Searching and Missing show the subgenre’s potential, movies like this prove its overwhelmingly poor reputation.
Undoubtedly, the movie’s worst aspect is its cinematography and special effects. This movie was filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it shows. Most of the film involves characters talking with each other via video chat. The rest of the film consists of stock footage being passed off as “real” video. The footage of the alien spacecraft is the worst offender, as the CGI looks worse than a PS2 video game.
The only thing phonier than the special effects is the acting, especially with the main character. Ice Cube’s performance can be best described as Samuel L. Jackson if he were given a dozen Benadryl. Ice Cube is on record saying he shot his scenes for this movie in 15 Days isolated from the director and other actors. I believe him. Because his acting proves that to be true.
Not helping matters is how his role is essentially watching the events of the movie unfold from his computer screen from a single location and reacting with the most underwhelming reactions, usually by whispering “damn.” When you react to the military destroying an alien spaceship the same way you’d react to a touchdown during a football game, you know your acting is weak.
Oh, and could you tell this movie was created by Amazon for its Prime Video streaming service? Because the movie never forgets to remind you of that fact. The main character’s job is frequently derided as spying on people’s Amazon carts. One of the characters is literally an Amazon delivery person, and the climactic scene involves him delivering a jump drive with a computer virus to destroy the alien ships using an Amazon delivery drone. (Mankind’s salvation, brought to you by Amazon!)
No, actually, I take it back. The worst part of the movie is its angle on mass surveillance. War of the Worlds has often been adapted to comment on the current cultural anxiety. The original novel was a condemnation of British imperialism. The 1953 movie tapped into Cold War paranoia, while the 2005 movie tapped into post-9/11 trauma.
And this recent adaptation? A not-so-subtle commentary on mass government surveillance. The aliens literally invade Earth to steal the world’s data, and they’re able to do this because of the mass surveillance undertaken by the world’s governments, including the American government.
The movie’s message is as subtle as a brick: mass surveillance is bad. However, that message is severely undercut by the main character working in the surveillance state. While the character’s arc undoubtedly involves him learning the error of his ways, his actions in the movie carry some creepy implications.
Will Radford literally uses his job to spy on his own kids. He hacks into his pregnant daughter’s fridge, spies on her in a coffee shop, then chides her for having a muffin for breakfast.
He also hacks into his son’s computer, deletes a new video game, then chides his son for his chosen profession as a video game streamer. Then, later in the movie, he hacks into a Tesla vehicle and programs it to drive his daughter to safety.
Forget aliens invading Earth. A government agent being able to do all of that from his computer is a far scarier prospect, because—holy s***!—is that a dystopian nightmare that makes Orwell’s 1984 look like a utopia in comparison.
So, yeah! This movie is bad. It’s not even “so bad, it’s good” like The Room or Sharknado, as many other reviewers have compared it to. It’s just cheap, boring, and dull. This movie about a man watching a cheap alien movie from his computer screen is about as appealing as…well, a man watching a cheap alien movie from his computer screen.
SAVE THE DATE! October 18th from 4–6 PM – Bring the Entire Family to PCSO Second Annual Trick or Treat with Sheriff Judd! 🎃
Join PCSO for a fun, free, and safe Halloween event on October 18, 2025, from 4 to 6 PM at SUN ‘n FUN, 4175 Medulla Road, Lakeland, FL 33811! This family-friendly celebration hosted by Sheriff Grady Judd promises an evening packed with entertainment, music, dancing, candy, photos, and beloved characters.
Kids are encouraged to come in costume and enjoy an unforgettable evening of spooky fun and treats in a secure environment.
🎉 Special thanks to the incredible sponsors: SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Center for Excellence and the thrilling Monster Jam Grave Digger team!
This event is sure to be a hit with families across Polk County — don’t miss out!
Quick Response Contained Fire in Davenport Neighborhood
On September 29, 2025, around 5:40 p.m., emergency crews were dispatched to what was first reported as a vehicle fire. By the time Davenport firefighters arrived, the blaze had spread from the car and ignited a nearby structure, raising the stakes for first responders.
Thanks to a coordinated, multi-agency response involving the Haines City Fire Department and Polk County Fire Rescue, crews were able to quickly contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to surrounding homes. Their swift action ensured that neighboring properties and residents remained safe.
Special recognition goes to Officer Jimenez of the Davenport Police Department, who assisted with evacuations in the area while also documenting the scene with dramatic photographs.
The incident highlights the importance of teamwork and collaboration among local agencies. Their combined efforts not only brought the fire under control but also reinforced the shared commitment to protecting the community.
The coughing and sneezing you hear at home, in the office and at the gym means one thing: It’s cold and flu season. Although it’s impossible to guarantee you won’t get sick, adopting a few healthy habits can go a long way toward avoiding the sniffles and sneezes.
Start by talking with your health care provider about any concerns you may have then follow these lifestyle recommendations for natural immune system support.
Wash Your Hands: While it’s probably the first rule you learn about getting sick as a child, washing your hands remains a critical first line of defense.
Use warm, soapy water and rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Don’t forget the backs of your hands, wrists and under your fingernails. Rinse off the soap then dry with a clean towel.
Commit to Healthier Eating: Foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains are recommended by experts as essential foods for optimizing your immune system. Consider fresh grapes, a prime example of food that contains beneficial plant compounds linked to health benefits in humans.
Healthy cells are the foundation of good health, and the antioxidants and other polyphenols naturally found in grapes help protect the health and function of cells. The good news is that improving your diet doesn’t require a complete overhaul – small steps such as swapping in fresh California grapes for processed snacks or simply adding a handful of fresh grapes to your day will add these beneficial compounds to your daily routine.
Or, you can add grapes to recipes like Lemony California Grape and Beet Salad, a vibrant and fresh melody of color and flavor. Roasted red and yellow beets meet sweet and juicy grapes, peppery arugula and pumpkin seeds all brought together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Studies suggest some grape compounds may positively influence immune function, including resveratrol and certain flavonoids. Additional studies show adding heart-healthy grapes to your daily diet can help support brain, colon and skin health. Grapes are also a good source of vitamin K, which may help support lung health.
Avoid Others Who are Sick: Along with washing your hands frequently, steering clear of people who are ill may sound like a no-brainer, but sometimes it’s easier said than done. When loved ones, close friends or coworkers come down with a cold or flu, do your best to keep your distance and avoid touching items with which they came into contact. After bedtime routines with a sick child or afternoon meetings with an under-the-weather associate, thoroughly wash your hands and clean commonly used surfaces like doorknobs or conference room keyboards.
Prioritize Hydration: Even during cooler weather, staying hydrated remains important for immune health by keeping the body’s defenses functioning properly. Drink water throughout the day, and for an extra dose, increase hydration by eating foods with high water content like grapes, which contain about 82% water.
Lemony California Grape and Beet Salad
Servings: 6
1/4 cup, plus 1 tablespoon, extra-virgin olive oil, divided
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
2 cups peeled and sliced (1/8-inch thick) raw red and yellow beets, cut into small half-moons or triangles
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
3 cups halved red Grapes from California
1/2 cup roasted salted pumpkin seeds
2 green onions, thinly sliced
4 cups (3 ounces) baby arugula
freshly ground pepper, to taste
Heat oven to 400 F and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In large bowl, whisk 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice and honey; set aside.
Place sliced beets on prepared baking sheet and drizzle with remaining oil. Add salt and toss well to coat. Spread in single layer and bake 25 minutes, or until tender; let cool.
Add grapes and pumpkin seeds to bow with dressing and toss well to coat. Add cooled beets, green onions and arugula. Toss lightly; season with pepper, to taste.
Nutritional information per serving: 250 calories; 5 g protein; 25 g carbohydrates; 16 g fat (58% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (9% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 320 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.
HAINES CITY – Haines City officials want folks to know when they are in the Heart of Florida – in fact, even more specifically, in the City Limits.
With all the growth, especially along U.S. Highway 27, there is some confusion about the actual location of many existing and newly constructed businesses. Since 2022, 58 new businesses have opened in the City Limits of Haines City – 29 of those are along Hwy. 27.
Polk State College? City Limits of Haines City. Advent Health Heart of Florida? City Limits of Haines City. Davenport Diner? City Limits of Haines City. Miller’s Ale House? City Limits of Haines City. Bojangles? City Limits of Haines City. Webb’s Candy Shop? City Limits of Haines City. The new Pizza Hut and Anytime Fitness located inside Forest Lake Plaza? City Limits of Haines City.
James Keene, Deputy City Manager, explained it easily, “Everything on Highway 27 from Balmoral Resort and the new Crossroads Village (on the corner of U.S. Hwy. 27 and State Road 17) to Posner Park (at U.S. Hwy. 27 and I-4) is either in the City Limits of Haines City or in Unincorporated Polk County,” Keene said.
“Except for the Race-Trac, the new Sherwin Williams, and the soon-to-be-built Home Depot on the corner of U.S. Highway 27 and County Road 547/Davenport Boulevard – everything else on Hwy. 27 is within the City Limits of Haines City or Unincorporated Polk County. Only those three businesses are in the city limits of Davenport.”
Many years ago, the U.S. Postal Service assigned Davenport mailing addresses to much of the unincorporated area along Hwy. 27. Back then, it was not an issue because most of the area was groves or unimproved land. However, now that there are homes, offices, restaurants and retail on these properties, it has gotten more complicated, and the U.S. Postal Service refuses to correct the addresses.
“It’s not your mailing address that counts, it’s where you physically live that matters with many important municipal services, such as what emergency service will respond when you need them, and where is my voting precinct” Keene said.
Back in 2004, the city began to annex businesses and property into the city limits, starting with Webb’s Candy, which at the time was listed as unincorporated Polk County, and continued North to the current city limits we know today.
Now, officials worry that they will contact the wrong entity for emergency services and go to the wrong location to vote.
“I understand it can be confusing, but this is an important topic that residents and business owners need to understand,” he said.
For clarification on your exact location, visit polkpa.org, find your property and open it, scroll down to “Taxing District”: You will be in one of three categories: (HAINES CITY /SWFWMD), (UNINCORP/SWFWMD), or (DAVENPORT/SWFWMD).
Get ready to let your imagination shine in the Lakeland Public Library’s annual Book Pumpkin Contest! Open to participants age 17 and under, this fun, spooky, and literary-themed competition invites young artists to decorate plastic pumpkins inspired by their favorite books—no real pumpkins allowed.
Entries must be submitted to the Youth Services desk at the Main Library between October 1–24. Community members will then cast their votes for the most creative pumpkin from October 25–30, with winners announced on Halloween!
The library is located at 100 Lake Morton Dr in Lakeland
Remember to pick up your pumpkin by November 7 after the contest ends. Whether it’s a magical pumpkin modeled after Harry Potter or a silly one inspired by a picture book, the possibilities are endless!
So grab a plastic pumpkin, channel your inner artist, and bring your favorite story to life this October. We can’t wait to see your literary masterpieces!
