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Polk County Fire Rescue Saves an Unconscious Individual from Structure Fire in Mulberry

Carl Fish
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Polk County Fire Rescue Saves an Unconscious Individual from Structure Fire in Mulberry

Polk County Fire Rescue Press Release

 

Bartow, Fla. (April 7, 2025) – Polk County Fire Rescue responded to a structure fire at 7:38 a.m. on Saturday, April 5 at 3541 Shady Brooke Drive W. in Mulberry.

 

Upon arrival, firefighters discovered an unconscious individual inside the residence who had been attempting to extinguish the fire using a garden water hose prior to the arrival of first responders. Firefighters quickly removed the patient from the residence ensuring that the patient received immediate medical attention. The patient was transported from the scene via Air Care. 

 

“Polk County Fire Rescue crews demonstrated exceptional professionalism and quick thinking in locating and removing an unconscious individual from the structure,” said Polk County Deputy County Manager of Public Safety Joe Halman, Jr. “Their swift and coordinated efforts reflect their dedication and commitment to keeping our community safe.”

 

Thirteen PCFR crews responded to the scene. No additional injuries were reported. No additional patients were transported.

 

The cause of the fire is still undetermined and the incident is being investigated by the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office. For further information, please contact the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office.

FHP Searching For Road Rage Shooting Suspect Who Fired Multiple Rounds On Interstate 4 Near Interstate 275

Carl Fish
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FHP Searching For Road Rage Shooting Suspect Who Fired Multiple Rounds On Interstate 4 Near Interstate 275

Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is actively searching for a suspect involved in a road rage shooting incident that occurred on Interstate 4 in Hillsborough County. The shooting took place west of Interstate 275, as a 34-year-old St. Petersburg man was driving westbound in a Honda CR-V.

According to authorities, the driver noticed a group of motorcyclists operating erratically along with another unidentified vehicle. Concerned by the behavior, the driver began filming the motorcyclists with his cell phone. As he did so, one of the motorcyclists, who was riding adjacent to the Honda, pulled out a handgun and fired several shots directly at the vehicle.

Multiple rounds struck the Honda, but fortunately, the driver was not injured in the incident. The suspected shooter has been described as a white male of medium build. He was seen wearing a jacket bearing the emblem of the “Outlaws MC,” a well-known motorcycle club.

The Florida Highway Patrol is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has any information about the suspect’s identity or whereabouts to come forward. Tips can be submitted by calling *FHP (*347) or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at **TIPS.

“This was an incredibly dangerous situation that could have resulted in serious harm or worse,” said Sergeant Steve Gaskins, Public Affairs Officer for FHP. “We’re asking for the public’s help in identifying this individual so we can hold him accountable.”

The investigation is ongoing.

Lakeland Man, 39, Killed In Early Morning Motorcycle Crash

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Man, 39, Killed In Early Morning Motorcycle Crash

LAKELAND, FL (April 4, 2025) – A tragic accident early Friday morning claimed the life of a local motorcyclist in Lakeland. At approximately 12:56 a.m., Lakeland Police Department officers responded to a traffic collision near the 1200 block of U.S. Highway 98 North. The crash involved a 2010 red Toyota sedan and a 2001 black Honda motorcycle, both traveling southbound on the highway.

According to initial reports, the motorcycle, operated by 39-year-old Guelsy Oritz of Lakeland, collided with the rear of the Toyota for reasons that remain under investigation. The impact caused Oritz to be ejected from the motorcycle. The driver of the Toyota, identified as 24-year-old Isaiah Desir, also of Lakeland, brought his vehicle to a controlled stop and remained on the scene.

Emergency responders from Lakeland Police, Polk County Fire Rescue, and the Lakeland Fire Department arrived quickly and began life-saving efforts. Oritz was transported to Lakeland Regional Health, but despite all attempts by medical staff, he was pronounced deceased. Desir was unharmed and did not report any injuries.

The Lakeland Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit took over the investigation. As part of their efforts, the roadway was closed for approximately three hours to allow for a thorough examination of the crash site.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the collision. Anyone with information that could assist in the investigation is encouraged to contact Officer Travis Payne at [email protected].

This remains an open and active investigation.

Family Continues Furniture Legacy

Staff Reporter
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Family Continues Furniture Legacy
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BY ANITA TODD

HAINES CITY –  Andrew Boyle, his brother, Gary, and Rob Ball have opened 13 furniture outlet stores in Florida in the last 90 days.

The Boyle family has been in the furniture business for decades. Now, two of those 13 locations are in Polk County – Haines City and Auburndale – where their father began years ago.

Back in the 1990s, when the Boyle family moved to Haines City from St. Pete, their father, Thomas, got a job at Badcock and became a dedicated employee. In fact, he loved the company so much he ended up buying the Arcadia Badcock location. In 2017, when Thomas retired, the three men – Andrew, Gary and Rob, took over that store and purchased 26 more in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.

When the Badcock corporation filed for bankruptcy last year, the three partners saw an opportunity. Many of the locations that closed were in small towns that now lacked a furniture store. Haines City was one of those towns.

The Haines City Furniture Outlet location opened about a month ago and Gary said the community has been supportive and seems happy to have a furniture store again.

“We are doing well,” Gary said. “The community has been very receptive.”

Furniture for every room in the house as well as some outdoor pieces are available. They also offer delivery, and no interest and no credit financing. 

The grand opening is this weekend (April 5-6) and the store is located in the former Badcock building, 35495 US Hwy 27 North (across Hwy. 27 from Manny’s).

Then there were 2: Huffman and West advance to runoff

Staff Reporter
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Then there were 2: Huffman and West advance to runoff
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BY ANITA TODD

HAINES CITY – Then, there were two. On April 1, the Haines City municipal election for the vacant City Commission seat started with four candidates and ended with two. Those two, Anne Huffman and Horace West, will face each other in a runoff election since neither candidate received the required 51 percent of the vote.

Incumbent Commissioner Huffman led the four-way race for City Commission Seat 5, securing 46.9 percent of the vote. Her closest competitor, West, received 36.9 percent. The other two candidates, Edwin Perez and Alisa Romero, garnered 14.1 percent and 2.1 percent of the vote, respectively.

In 2017, Huffman was the first black female official in the City’s history when she was originally elected. She was reelected in 2021 and served as mayor in 2022.

“Over the next few weeks leading up to the runoff, I’m going to really emphasize the vote-by-mail option. The weather is so unpredictable,” Huffman said. “My top three priorities are public safety, infrastructure, and increasing downtown parking.”

West was a Haines City Commissioner for 20 years who in 2022 decided not to seek reelection. Instead, that year, he, unsuccessfully, threw his hat into the ring for a seat in the Florida House of Representatives.

“My entire life my focus has been on making sure children are cared for, and that will continue,” West said. West was the conduit for bringing youth football to this area, as well as organizing the annual city Easter Egg hunt. Now, he’s helping in any way he can with the creation of the city’s soccer program. Since the regular election, four community leaders have come forward to endorse him: former City Commissioners Ken Kipp, Roy Tyler, and Joe Hamilton. An opponent in the regular election Edwin Perez has also endorsed him.

The runoff election will be held April 29, since when one is needed, it must be held within 30 days.

Residents are encouraged to take part in the upcoming runoff election to decide the representative for Seat 5 on the City Commission. For more information on the election and voting details, please visit the Haines City Election Information Center.

Lakeland Woman Dies After Crashing Her Motorcycle

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Woman Dies After Crashing Her Motorcycle

A Lakeland woman who was involved in a motorcycle crash on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, passed away in the hospital the following day.

 

65-year old Marie Ellen Porter was removed from life-support Thursday afternoon, and subsequently passed away.

 

Ms. Porter was the only person involved in the motorcycle crash that occurred at around 11:45 am, on US 98, north of Socrum Loop Road West in Lakeland.

 

The crash was investigated by the Traffic Homicide Unit from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

 

According to the preliminary investigation, Ms. Porter was driving a black 2016 Indian Scout motorcycle south on US 98.

 

That area of the roadway is currently in a construction zone, and there was loose dirt on the freshly paved southbound lane. The dirt likely caused the motorcycle to lose traction, and Ms. Porter lost control of the bike. 

 

As the motorcycle tipped, Ms. Porter’s head appears to have struck a road sign. She was not wearing a helmet.

🎉 Exciting Events Happening This Weekend in Central Florida! 🌴

Staff Reporter
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🎉 Exciting Events Happening This Weekend in Central Florida! 🌴

Hey there, event lovers! The first weekend of April is shaping up to be a blast in Central Florida, with everything from blueberry picking to live music, rodeos, and even a Thai festival. Whether you’re in Winter Haven, Lake Wales, Auburndale, or nearby, there’s something for everyone to enjoy from April 4–6, 2025. Let’s dive into the fun—grab your calendar and get ready to make some plans! 🎶✨

Friday, April 4, 2025

🍇 Polkdale Blueberry Farm U-Pick

  • When: 11:00 AM
  • Where: Polkdale Blueberry Farm, North Auburndale 2 miles from I-4.
  • What’s Happening: Kick off your weekend with some fresh air and blueberry picking! Perfect for a family outing or a sweet date.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🍹 Winter Haven Delights: Food, Drink, and Sunset Cruise

  • When: 3:00 PM (two identical events)
  • Where: 220 Ave A SW, Winter Haven, FL 33881
  • What’s Happening: Treat yourself to tasty eats, refreshing drinks, and a stunning sunset cruise. One listing has 1 interested and 1 going, while the other’s got 3 interested and 1 confirmed. Double the fun, double the vibes!
  • Event Link: Event 1 | Event 2

🎉 First Friday Winter Haven

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Downtown Winter Haven Historic District
  • What’s Happening: A community favorite! With 240 interested and 19 confirmed, this event promises a lively evening of fun downtown. Don’t miss out!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Catch the Wave with The Beach Buoys!

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: Ramon Theater
  • What’s Happening: Get ready to groove with The Beach Buoys—53 people are interested, and 8 are set to attend this awesome live show.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Daniel Pepin Live at The Union Taproom

  • When: 7:00 PM
  • Where: Union Taproom
  • What’s Happening: Enjoy an intimate live music night with Daniel Pepin. It’s got 1 interested and 1 going so far—be one of the first to RSVP!
  • Event Link: Event Link

💃 First Friday: 80’s Dance Party

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Break out your neon and dance the night away! Shelly’s already interested—join her for some retro fun.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 TWIZTED ROCKS FOR AUTISM SHOW

  • When: 8:30 PM
  • Where: Tanners Lakeside
  • What’s Happening: Rock out for a great cause! Joey’s confirmed to go, and this event supports autism awareness with some serious tunes.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Rockin’ On The Chain at Tanners Lakeside

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  • When: April 4–6 (starts Friday)
  • Where: 1006 S Lake Howard Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: A full weekend of music and good vibes! Melanie, Joey, and 2 friends are already in—don’t miss this multi-day party.
  • Event Link: Event Link

Saturday, April 5, 2025

🏃 Carillon Classic 5k presented by AdventHealth

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  • When: 7:00 AM
  • Where: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: Start your Saturday with a run! This 5k has 65 interested and 15 confirmed runners—lace up and join the crew.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🔫 NORTH RIDGE FCA CLAY SHOOT

  • When: 7:00 AM
  • Where: Tenoroc Shooting Range
  • What’s Happening: Test your aim at this clay shooting event. With 10 interested and 3 going, it’s a great way to kick off the day.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🛍️ Freedom Station Park Market

  • When: 9:00 AM
  • Where: 118 E Wall St, Frostproof, FL
  • What’s Happening: Shop local goodies at this market—13 are interested, and 4 are confirmed to attend.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🐰 Auburndale’s Easter Egg Hunt Market

  • When: 9:00 AM
  • Where: 1 Bobby Green Blvd, Auburndale, FL 33823
  • What’s Happening: A market with an Easter egg hunt twist! Sherry’s interested—bring the kids for some holiday fun.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Saturday LIVE Entertainment with Sean O’Connell

  • When: 10:00 AM
  • Where: 118 E Wall St, Frostproof, FL
  • What’s Happening: Enjoy live tunes with Sean O’Connell—3 interested and 1 going so far.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🍖 Spring Fling & BBQ

  • When: 10:00 AM
  • Where: 180 S Central Ave, Bartow, FL 33830
  • What’s Happening: A huge BBQ bash with 2.3K interested and 127 confirmed! This one’s a can’t-miss.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🥚 Annual Egg-Venture Hunt

  • When: 10:30 AM
  • Where: 1st Saturday Downtown Auburndale Market
  • What’s Happening: Another egg hunt for the kiddos—Sherry’s interested in this festive outing.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 Korey Ketchum Live at The Apple Lounge & Grill

  • When: 12:00 PM
  • Where: 2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven, FL 33880
  • What’s Happening: Midday music vibes with Korey Ketchum—perfect for a laid-back lunch.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎪 Free Circus Show

  • When: 1:00 PM
  • Where: 1052 U.S. 92, Auburndale, FL 33823
  • What’s Happening: Who doesn’t love a free circus? 6 are interested, and 1’s confirmed—bring the family!
  • Event Link: Event Link

💙 AFAA Light It Up Blue 2025

  • When: 2:00 PM
  • Where: Camp Mack Lodge, Marina & RV Resort
  • What’s Happening: Shine a light for autism awareness—Regina’s interested in this meaningful event.
  • Event Link: Event Link

📚 Book Signing at Front Page Brewing Co.

  • When: 4:00 PM
  • Where: Front Page Brewing Co.
  • What’s Happening: Meet an author and sip some brews—17 interested and 4 going.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🍺 Pop-Up at Grove Roots Brewing Co.

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Grove Roots Brewing Co.
  • What’s Happening: A pop-up event with 7 interested and 1 confirmed—perfect for beer lovers.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎶 Ridge Country @ Rockin’ on the Chain

  • When: 5:00 PM
  • Where: Tanners Lakeside
  • What’s Happening: More music from the weekend-long fest—Joey and John are confirmed!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎤 Karaoke Night!

  • When: 6:00 PM
  • Where: 229 E Stuart Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853
  • What’s Happening: Sing your heart out—7 interested and 1 going so far.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🐴 Westgate River Ranch Saturday Night Rodeo

  • When: 7:30 PM
  • Where: 3200 River Ranch Boulevard, River Ranch, FL 33867
  • What’s Happening: Saddle up for a rodeo night—Amanda N Hollis and Leslie are interested.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎸 The Bay is Getting TWIZTED

  • When: 8:00 PM
  • Where: Carribbean Bay Bar
  • What’s Happening: A rocking night with 24 interested and 4 confirmed—get TWIZTED!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🌸 Bloom at BSP

  • When: April 5–6 (starts Saturday)
  • Where: 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33815
  • What’s Happening: A weekend-long celebration—Susan and Leslie are interested.
  • Event Link: Event Link

Sunday, April 6, 2025

🇹🇭 Songkran Thai Festival + Thai Food Market @ Grove Roots Brewing

  • When: 12:00 AM (midnight start)
  • Where: Grove Roots Brewing Co.
  • What’s Happening: Celebrate Thai culture with food and festivities—285 interested and 21 going!
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎪 Free Circus Show

  • When: 12:00 PM
  • Where: 1052 U.S. 92, Auburndale, FL 33823
  • What’s Happening: Another free circus show—1 interested and 1 confirmed so far.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🎵 Quittin’ Time Full Band at Winter Haven Moose

  • When: 1:30 PM
  • Where: Winter Haven Moose Lodge 1023 & Chapter 1152
  • What’s Happening: Live music for members and guests—5 interested and 2 going.
  • Event Link: Event Link

🌮 Moms’ Night Out

  • When: 6:00 PM
  • Where: SanDiegos Mexican-Grill
  • What’s Happening: Moms, this one’s for you! 20 are interested, and 4 are confirmed for a fun night out.
  • Event Link: Event Link

Bonus: Mark Your Calendar!

🎤 Kai7en~Unplugged Debut at Union Taproom

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  • When: Friday, April 18, 2025, 7:00 PM
  • Where: Union Taproom
  • What’s Happening: A debut performance to look forward to—5 interested and 2 going so far.
  • Event Link: Event Link

What a weekend lineup! Whether you’re into music, food, outdoor fun, or family-friendly activities, Central Florida’s got you covered. Which event are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll see you out there enjoying the fun! 🌟🎉

Lakeland Man Arrested For Allegedly Laundering $800K in Illegal Gambling Organization Proceeds

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Man Arrested For Allegedly Laundering $800K in Illegal Gambling Organization Proceeds

Detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Lakeland man Tuesday, April 1, 2025 for money laundering after it was discovered that he tried to hide more than $800-thousand in proceeds from illegal gambling games that he organized.

39-year old James Patrick Kerr was charged with three counts of Fraud-Money Laundering in Excess of $100,000 (F1).

“One of our undercover detectives infiltrated Kerr’s illegal poker games that were being conducted in the Winter Haven area. As the saying goes, ‘follow the money,’ and that’s exactly what detectives did. They discovered that Kerr would make multiple transactions among various bank accounts, with the purpose of trying to hide his illicit earnings.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

The investigation revealed that Kerr’s fraudulent activities occurred over three years, in an attempt to conceal a total of $833,478 in illegal gambling money. 

·        2021: $408,878

·        2022: $289,600

·        2023: $135,000

Detectives located Kerr at his attorney’s office in Lakeland, but he refused to speak with detectives about the investigation.

Kerr was arrested and taken to the Sheriff’s Processing Center and booked-in his charges.

The Home Depot coming to Davenport

Staff Reporter
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The Home Depot coming to Davenport

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BY ANITA TODD

DAVENPORT – According to Growth Spotter, The Home Depot is coming to Davenport.

The Home Depot will be 135,632 square foot retail store on Highway 27 and Davenport Boulevard on 27 acres near Racetrac. This is the fifth store in Polk County with two locations in Lakeland, one in Winter Haven, and one in Lake Wales.

According to City Manager, Kelly Callihan, the addition of the home improvement store will be a big asset to Davenport.

“This is a great addition to the city,” Callihan said. “Our residents will not have to leave the city for their needs, plus it’s a good commercial tax base.”

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement retailer. There are more than 2,300 stores across North America. Last year, the retailer opened 12 new locations and plans to open 13 this year. The Home Depot employs more than 470,000 people.

“This is a long sought after anchor store,” said Brynn Summerlin, Davenport Mayor and Commissioner. “This is part of the retail strategy for the city. We are striving to achieve commercial growth that complements our residential development efforts. This is an exciting time – things are starting to come together.”

The store will be located where an orange grove once was. Updates will be provided as they become available concerning the start of construction and grand opening day.

Additionally, Sherwin-Williams Paint will build a new store near The Home Depot. More details to will be relayed concerning this addition to the community.

ADVERTISEMENT OF SALE

Staff Reporter
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ADVERTISEMENT OF SALE

Notice is hereby given that Lake Wales Storage intends to sell the property described below to enforce a lien under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Statutes (section 83.80-83.809). The owner will sell at public auction on or after April 17,2025 at 10:00 am at storageauctions.com 

Units belonging to the following:

CUSTOMER NAME/UNIT #

Tikiasha Boone #365

Miguel Antonio Perez Rodriguez #1051

This sale will be continued on such succeeding sale days thereafter as may be necessary to be completed. *Unless otherwise noted units contain household items. 

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