Home Blog Page 69

In Loving Memory of Eleanor “Ellie” W. Threlkel

Staff Reporter
-
0
In Loving Memory of Eleanor “Ellie” W. Threlkel

Eleanor “Ellie” W. Threlkel

June 30th, 1937 – February 14th, 2026

Eleanor “Ellie” Walker Threlkel, 88, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 14, surrounded by her family. She was born to Andrew and Gertrude Walker in Kohala, Hawaii and grew up on the Hamukua Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, where her father was the manager of sugar plantations.

Ellie entered eighth grade at Annie Wright School in Tacoma, Washington. Following graduation, she entered Vanderbilt University, in Nashville, TN where she earned a Bachelor degree in Sociology, with a minor in English, and obtained a teaching certificate. During her time at Vanderbilt, she was a member of AOII Fraternity and a member of the Vanderbilt Choir. There she met her future husband, Jim Threlkel and they were the first couple to be married in Benton Chapel on the Vanderbilt University campus.

While Jim was in medical school Ellie supported the family as a bank teller and second grade teacher. They moved to Turner AFB in Albany, GA when Jim joined the U.S. Air Force and served as a surgeon from 1965-1967. Following Jim’s service, they returned to Vanderbilt where he completed his surgical residency. During their time in Nashville and Albany, they had three daughters. Ellie became a full-time mother to her girls as Jim spent long hours working in the hospital. She was always a lady of strong faith and her family and faith were always the first and foremost in her life.

In 1972, they moved to Winter Haven where Jim began his surgical practice with the Gessler Clinic. And as Ellie established her mark in Winter Haven where she became well-known in the community for her fashion and her HATS!

Ellie became involved in community activities, with a primary interest in youth activities, serving as a Girl Scout leader while her daughters were participating. She served on many boards of directors, including Turnaround, “Just Say No” and PRIDE (Parent Resources Information on Drug Education) of Polk County which focused on anti-drug abuse initiatives and education. Ellie also served on boards, and as board chair of Good Shepherd Hospice and Florida Presbyterian Homes. She was an active participant on the Winter Haven Police and Fire Pension boards, the Heartland Crime Stoppers board, and many city and civic committees. She served as a Ruling Elder of First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven and chaired various church committees. The church recognized Ellie and Jim as Outstanding Older Adults for their committed service.

Ellie treasured her membership in the Garden Club of Winter Haven, where she served as a member, president and was a member of distinction. She was a charter member of the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven. Ellie was awarded the Winter Haven Banker’s Cup as “Woman of the Year” in 1984. Ellie was a Winter Haven City Commissioner from 1988 to

1996, where she served as Mayor ProTem two years, and as Mayor for three years. She was a member of the Ridge League of Cities and was a strong advocate for Winter Haven and the Central Florida ridge during interactions with members of the Florida legislature. During this time, Ellie was appointed to the state’s Juvenile Justice Commission. In 1996, Ellie was the first elected official to receive the Ridge League of Cities’ Nettie B. Draughon Award for her “eight years of service to the League as a public official.” In 1997, she was recognized with the Girls Inc. Julie Pope “She Knows Where She’s Going” award and in 2007 the Community Service Award by the Junior League of Greater Winter Haven.

A true sports enthusiast, Ellie loved watching baseball, football, basketball, and horse racing. She enjoyed traveling with her family, whether on vacation or to significant sporting events or beach time! During her time as Mayor and Commissioner, she played a pivotal role in bringing the Cleveland Indians to Winter Haven for Spring Training, resulting in more than a decade of spring baseball at Chain O’ Lakes Stadium.

Ellie was predeceased by her adored daughter, Libby Threlkel Ray, her parents, three brothers, and her brother-in-law. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Jim Threlkel, daughters Kit and Peggy of Winter Haven, grandson Kasey, of Odessa, Florida, her son-in-love Andy Ray and his wife Sherie, of Winter Haven, and sister-in-love, Mimi Threlkel, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. She is also survived by nieces and nephews and cherished friends.

In lieu of flowers, Ellie requested donations be made to Girls Inc. of Winter Haven, P.O. Box 7285, Winter Haven, FL, 33883-7285; Libby Threlkel Ray scholarship at Polk Education Foundation, 1530 Shumate Dr., Bartow, FL, 33830; or First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven, 637 6th Street NW, Winter Haven, FL, 33881.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, located at 2425 Havendale Blvd. NW, Winter Haven. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven, located at 637 6th Street NW, Winter Haven.

PCSO: Woman Flees Multiple Times, Strikes Deputy’s Vehicle Before Arrest

Allison
-
0
PCSO: Woman Flees Multiple Times, Strikes Deputy’s Vehicle Before Arrest

At around 1:45 Monday morning, March 2nd, a PCSO deputy responded to the area in front of Bartow Executive Airport on northbound US 17, to assist a disabled vehicle.

A black Chrysler 300 was stopped in the outside lane, and the deputy made contact with the driver, 21-year old Cheyenne Melody Williams of Avon Park, who was outside of her car.

Williams quickly got back into her vehicle and sped away. The deputy did not pursue, but notified other units nearby via the radio.

Another deputy attempted a traffic stop on the Chrysler in Eagle Lake, and again the driver accelerated quickly trying to flee. That deputy also chose not to pursue, opting to relay the information on the radio.

The Chrysler was spotted again, pulled off on the side of US 17. A deputy pulled in behind the Chrysler, and another deputy pulled up in front of the Chrysler to box it in.

Did that stop Williams? No. She turned her wheels, and accelerated, striking the PCSO vehicle in front of her. She drove away yet again.

Williams drove into the Ranches at McLeod neighborhood, parked her car, and fled on foot. Two cans of Four Loko were found in the vehicle.

Deputies found Williams in a residence on Trotters Drive. She was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and taken to the Sheriff’s Processing Center.

When asked why she fled three times, Williams said she didn’t know why. She said she was trying to head home to Avon Park from Orlando, but couldn’t explain why she was driving north.

Cheyenne Williams faces multiple charges.

One Dead in Lakeland Mobile Home Fire on Pine Ridge Drive

Carl Fish
-
0
One Dead in Lakeland Mobile Home Fire on Pine Ridge Drive

Lakeland Fire Rescue Press Release

Lakeland, FL — Lakeland Fire Department (LFD) responded to a mobile home fire on Pine Ridge Drive yesterday (Mar. 1) evening at approximately 9:45 PM.

Initial reports indicated two individuals were possibly entrapped inside the residence. Fire crews arrived to find heavy fire involvement in the carport area and immediately began suppression and search operations. One adult victim was located deceased within that area. Search operations continued due to reports of a second occupant unaccounted for.

Fatal Fire In Lakeland

 

Following a secondary search and LFD confirmation that no additional victims were inside the residence, the remaining occupant was accounted for and confirmed to have evacuated prior to LFD arrival.

 

“Our firefighters arrived to challenging fire conditions and immediately began suppression and search operations. Despite their efforts, one life was lost. We are thankful the second occupant was able to escape safely,” said Fire Chief Douglas Riley. “Any loss of life is tragic, and we understand how deeply this loss affects the family and others connected to them.”

 

The fire was brought under control, and the incident remains under investigation with the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Lakeland Police Department.

Lakeland Fatal Fire

Driver Facing Felony Charges After Running Light, Stop Signs, Striking Motorcycle Then Fleeing On Foot

Carl Fish
-
0
Driver Facing Felony Charges After Running Light, Stop Signs, Striking Motorcycle Then Fleeing On Foot

Polk County Sheriff’s Office Press Release

PCSO deputies arrested a Dundee woman who critically injured a motorcyclist with her vehicle then fled the scene at approximately 5:39 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at the intersection of W. Central Avenue and 2nd Street NW in Winter Haven.

According to evidence and witness statements, 55‑year‑old Cresenciana Maziniswas traveling eastbound in a Honda CRV on W. Central Avenue at a high rate of speed. Mazinis failed to stop—or even slow down—for one red light and two stop signs. At the same time, a 2001 Harley‑Davidson motorcycle was entering the intersection southbound on 2nd Street NW when the Honda struck the right side of the motorcycle.

The impact redirected the motorcycle, and the rider was fully ejected, landing on the hood of the Honda and being carried approximately 25 feet before falling to the ground.

Mazinis immediately exited her vehicle and fled the scene on foot. Witnesses attempted to stop her, but she refused and continued walking away. 911 callers provided a description, and Winter Haven Police officers located her about two blocks from the crash. She attempted to avoid officers before being detained. She provided no information at the scene, stating she had somewhere else to be, and later complained of a leg injury. She was transported to a local hospital, treated, and released into the custody of law enforcement.

First responders found the motorcyclist lying in the grass. He was airlifted to a local hospital with severe injuries, including multiple broken bones in his legs and feet and a traumatic head injury. He was not wearing a helmet.

Mazinis was arrested and charged with reckless driving with serious bodily injury (F3) and leaving the scene of a crash with serious bodily injury (F2). She was also charged with violation of probation for a prior 2024 trespassing case. Because she refused to sign the citations issued to her, deputies added an additional misdemeanor charge of refusal to sign citations (M2).

“This driver left a man on the ground with life‑threatening injuries and tried to flee from her responsibility. We are grateful for the witnesses who stayed at the scene and immediately called 911 with a description of the driver — their quick actions helped our deputies and the Winter Haven Police Department locate her and make sure she was held accountable.” — Grady Judd, Sheriff

Saint Paddy’s Unparade + Friday Fest Returns to Bartow

Allison
-
0
Saint Paddy’s Unparade + Friday Fest Returns to Bartow

Put on your green and head to Downtown Bartow for a fun, free community celebration as Saint Paddy’s Unparade kicks off March Friday Fest March 20.

The evening begins with the Saint Paddy’s Unparade — an informal, just-for-fun march where the community gathers and walks together from Nye Jordan Park to downtown to start the festivities. This is not a formally organized parade — there’s no registration and no fees — just friends, families, festive costumes and plenty of Irish spirit making their way downtown together.

Event Details:

📍 Unparade Meet-Up Location: Nye Jordan Park

🕔 Lineup Begins: 5:00 p.m.

🚶‍♂️ March to Downtown: Shortly after lineup

🎉 Friday Fest: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

📍 Downtown Location: 180 S. Central Ave., Bartow

🎉 Sponsored by: Spath Jewelers

Once participants arrive downtown, Friday Fest will be in full swing featuring craft vendors, shopping, dining and live music by the Daniel Burns Band. Visitors can enjoy the charm of Downtown Bartow while celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day with the community.

Whether you choose to walk, watch or jump in along the way, everyone is welcome. Grab something green and celebrate Saint Paddy’s Day the Bartow way.

Info and flyer courtesy of Main Street Bartow

79-Year-Old Woman Dies in Two-Vehicle Crash at Winter Haven Intersection, Investigation Underway

Staff Reporter
-
0
79-Year-Old Woman Dies in Two-Vehicle Crash at Winter Haven Intersection, Investigation Underway

The PCSO Traffic Investigations Homicide Unit is investigating a two‑vehicle crash that resulted in the death of one of the drivers. The collision occurred around 3:54 p.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the intersection of Winter Lake Road and Camellia Drive in Winter Haven.

According to evidence and witness statements, a 2017 Subaru driven by 79‑year‑old Geneva Lane was stopped and waiting to turn left across the westbound lanes of Winter Lake Road. Lane began her turn but failed to yield to an oncoming 2006 Mercedes, entering its path. The Mercedes driver attempted to avoid the crash by braking heavily but was unable to prevent the impact. The Subaru was pushed northeast, rotating before coming to an uncontrolled stop against a large stone wall. The Mercedes also rotated and came to rest in the outside lane of Winter Lake Road.

Both drivers were wearing seat belts, and their airbags deployed. A PCSO deputy who witnessed the crash, along with Polk County Fire Rescue personnel, immediately began lifesaving efforts. Lane was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Mercedes was transported to a local hospital and remains in critical condition.

The investigation is ongoing.

In Loving Memory of Armin Mohammed

Staff Reporter
-
0
In Loving Memory of Armin Mohammed

Armin Mohammed

April 12th, 1954 – February 14th, 2026

Armin Mohammed, lovingly known as “Tantay,” passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at AdventHealth Lake Wales in Lake Wales, Florida, surrounded by his devoted family. He was 71 years old.

Born on April 12, 1954, in D’Abadie, Trinidad, Armin carried with him a deep love for family, culture, and community throughout his life.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, Armin was known for his warm heart, quick wit, and joyful spirit. In his younger years, he was an avid cricketer and enjoyed lively games of cards. He had a passion for good food and travel and will always be remembered for his sense of humor and jovial personality.

Armin was preceded in death by his father, Mohammed Abdul (1974); his mother, Jano Mohammed (1997); twelve of his siblings; and his beloved daughter, Rashelle. As he reunites with those who have gone before him, his legacy of never-ending love will forever be embedded in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his cherished wife, Indrani; his son, Ronnel, and daughter-in-law, Alejandra; his daughters, Keri and her husband Tyler, and Arielle; his adored grandchildren, Kristyn, Colin, Kihara, and Santi; his brothers, Haniff, Nazim, and Ameer; and his sister, Narissa, along with many extended family members and friends who will deeply miss him.

A visitation was held Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Ridge Funeral Care located at 2425 W Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven, Florida. A reception followed the service.

2026 Local Winter Haven Hero: Joe Nathan Halman Jr.

Staff Reporter
-
0
2026 Local Winter Haven Hero: Joe Nathan Halman Jr.

The City of Winter Haven honors Joe Nathan Halman Jr. for his commitment to faith, leadership, and public service.

Joe Nathan Halman Jr.

The City of Winter Haven is proud to recognize Joe Nathan Halman Jr. as a 2026 Local Hero for a lifetime of service rooted in faith and public leadership..

Halman has dedicated his life to serving others through military service, law enforcement, ministry, and public safety leadership.

He served his country in the United States Army and the Florida National Guard before beginning a distinguished career with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Over more than 30 years, he rose through the ranks to become the first Black Major and Chief of Law Enforcement in the agency’s history — a milestone reflecting both professional excellence and historic leadership.

In Winter Haven, Halman founded Greater Works Ministries, where he serves as senior pastor, providing spiritual leadership and oversight of ministries across the region. Through his faith-based leadership and civic involvement, he has had a lasting impact throughout Polk County.

Following his law enforcement career, Halman continued his public service as the first Black Deputy County Manager for Public Safety in Polk County. He now serves as Director of Public Safety for the City of Haines City, continuing his lifelong commitment to community safety and strategic leadership.

A graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy, Halman has been widely recognized for his influence and service. He was inducted into the Polk County School Hall of Fame and has received numerous civic and faith-based honors, including recognition as one of the most influential African Americans in Polk County.

Halman’s legacy reflects decades of integrity, faith, leadership, and dedication to building stronger communities. The City of Winter Haven is honored to celebrate Joe Nathan Halman Jr. as a Local Hero during the week of February 22, 2026, recognizing his distinguished service and lasting contributions.

Lakeland Woman Arrested For Alleged Unlicensed Dog Surgeries

Carl Fish
-
0
Lakeland Woman Arrested For Alleged Unlicensed Dog Surgeries

Polk County Sheriff’s Office detectives received information about a package containing Xylazine that had been intercepted by U.S. Customs in New York. The package had been shipped from India and was addressed to a residence on North Socrum Loop Road in unincorporated Lakeland, Florida.

Xylazine—commonly known as “tranq”—is a veterinary sedative frequently found mixed with fentanyl for street sales. The package contained eight boxes labeled “Xylaxine,” containing glass bottles filled with liquid Xylazine—a total of 240 grams of the substance.

On February 26, 2026, detectives executed a search warrant at the home on North Slocum Loop Road and spoke to 35 year old Ashley Wimbrow. Ms. Wimbrow told detectives that she was involved in dog breeding and said that she used the Xylazine to perform surgical procedures on dogs for monetary compensation, with fees ranging from $10 to $100 depending on the size of the animal and the nature of the procedure. Ms. Wimbrow indicated that she has been engaged in these surgeries for approximately one year. She explained that she uses medication (Xylazine) to sedate the dogs for procedures such as “tail docking” (the removal of the dog’s tail to shorten it), and “ear cropping,” (a procedure intended to make the ears stand upright).

Ms. Wimbrow told deputies that she did not, and has never had a license to practice veterinary medicine. She said that she did not know she needed a license. Deputies confirmed that she did not have a veterinary license. 

Inside the home, deputies found five dogs inside uncleaned separate dog crates with fresh and dried feces and puddles of urine. The room emitted a strong ammonia odor. The dogs were a smaller than the standard-sized breed of pit bulls, referred to as “pocket bullies.”

Wimbrow signed a form to transfer custody of the dogs to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. They were transported to Polk County Animal Control where they will be medically evaluated. There were no indications suggesting dogs were involved in dogfighting. The dogs will eventually be made available for adoption through a reputable animal rescue organization.

Ms. Wimbrow was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance (F3), possession of drug paraphernalia (M1), animal neglect by confining the dogs to their crates without a wholesome exchange of air (M1), and practicing veterinary medicine in the state of Florida without a valid active license (F3). 

The investigation was a joint effort between the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the Tampa office of Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

“Fortunately, we found no evidence of ‘tranq/fentanyl’ trafficking. Unfortunately, we discovered that animals were being subject to unsafe surgeries and dogs were being confined in an unhealthy environment. No one should be performing medical procedures on animals without proper training or licensing.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Polk County I.T. Division Staff Now Hiring

Allison
-
0
Polk County I.T. Division Staff Now Hiring

Polk County Government Florida-

Polk County I.T. Division Staff are searching for a strong, well-rounded developer with command of both front-end and back-end technologies and a keen eye for problem-solving. The senior full stack developer position, which is based in Bartow, includes designing and building scalable web applications, mentoring junior developers and contributing to architectural decisions, among other things. To learn more about the position or apply, visit: https://www.polk-county.net/about/careers/

Polk County’s employee benefits include:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Florida Retirement System (FRS) Pension/Investment Options
  • 10 Paid Holidays, plus paid time off
  • Tuition Reimbursement/education Incentives
  • Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Wellness Incentives and Employee Gym
  • Dedicated Employee Health Clinic
1...686970...1,201Page 69 of 1,201