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Wauchula Moose Lodge Receives 59th AED Donated by Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation

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by James Coulter

A local company stepped forward to “pay it forward” and have an automated external defibrillator (AED) donated to a local Moose Lodge.

On Monday evening, Wauchula Moose Lodge #1487 was the proud recipient of the 59th AED donated by Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF), a local non-profit dedicated to spreading awareness for heart health and donating AEDs to local establishments.

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The AED was donated thanks to a generous sponsorship made by National Industrial Solutions, which agreed to “pay it forward” to have the device installed at the Wauchula Moose Lodge.

Melanie Brown Culpepper, CCF founder, was contacted by Celena Bolin Goode, a lodge member who inquired about an AED. Celena had known Melanie personally for 25 years. As such, she recommended an AED from CCF to be installed at the Lodge.

“I think that CCF is an amazing Foundation and they are going to do big things for lots of people,” Celena said. “CCF is a movement to save lives and I am so proud to have been involved and spreading the word.”

Melanie replied that CCF’s waiting list was already booked full; however, a donation could be made within a month if someone agreed to “pay it forward.”

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“I knew Celena and her husband Stan from 25 years ago as I used to do their hair at Melanie’s Cutting Edge,” Melanie wrote on Facebook. “She got a message from her friend, Eddie Pence to say that his company, National Industrial Solutions, was going to sponsor their AED as a Pay It Forward.”

Celena was likewise impressed by another friend being willing to make such a generous donation to facilitate another generous donation to their organization.

“I think Eddie Pence is a generous person by reaching out to answer a need for an AED to help protect our members and friends at our lodge,” she said.

Audie Grantham, President of Wauchula Moose Lodge #1487, was honored to have an AED donated to his organization’s facility. He was especially pleased by how a friend of a member was able to step forward to help “pay it forward” to make the donation happen.

Moreover, following the installation of the AED and a demonstration by a local fire rescue technician, the Lodge proudly presented a check to CCF to help “pay it forward” for an AED at the Arcadia Moose Lodge #1327.

“Our membership had expressed a desire to get an AED for our Lodge,” Grantham explained. “Not only has Eddie been instrumental in making this happen but without him we wouldn’t have been able to pay it forward…The whole event was extra special for us. It’s something that we hope we never have to use but the fact that we have it if we need it is priceless. Thanks to CCF and Eddie from the bottom of our hearts.”

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Melanie started CCF nearly four years ago following the untimely passing of her late fiancée, Michael Culpepper, who had suffered cardiac arrest.

Not wanting anyone to suffer a similar fate, she started her non-profit organization to raise proceeds to donate AEDs across Polk County.

Since its inception, CCF has donated nearly 60 AEDs to businesses, restaurants, and other establishments across Polk County, including Tanner’s Lakeside, Old Man Frank’s, and Caribbean Bay.

“Thank you everyone and our community so very much, as without our community support, we could not make this all happen,” Melanie wrote on Facebook. “With community support, we hope to place a defibrillator on every city block. We may be the closest First Responder. It could be your friend your own family or even YOU [that] you’re saving.”

For more information, visit CCF’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/honoringculpepper

Pair Arrested After Bizarre Sequence Of Events Following Hit & Run Crash On 17/92

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According to arrest affidavits for Brittany Godbold (DOB: 7/17/1990) and Christopher Godbold (DOB: 1/27/1989), both were arrested and taken into custody following a hit-and-run crash on Highway 17/92 near the intersection of W. Palm Lake Dr. in Winter Haven.

Winter Haven Police responded to the accident scene at approximately 5 p.m. on February 8th.

According to the arrest affidavit, Brittany Godbold was the at-fault driver involved in the hit-and-run:

Upon my arrival, I observed [REDACTED] with passenger-side door damage and a deflated front passenger tire in the northside ditch on Hwy 92 W. I also observed a silver Jeep bearing an FL tag [REDACTED]. It should be noted that the victim was driving the gray Chrysler, and the defendant was driving the silver Jeep.

I made contact with the defendant, who advised the following: While traveling westbound on Hwy 92 W, the defendant attempted to change lanes and, in doing so, struck the rear of the victim’s vehicle. The defendant then left the scene and went to the hotel down the road, where she and her husband were staying, to retrieve her Florida driver’s license.

The defendant did not provide the victims with her contact information, nor did she check for any injuries or damage she may have caused.”*

A victim stated that they saw the defendant stop briefly to check if they were “moving.” Once the defendant observed the victim moving inside the vehicle, she made a U-turn on Hwy 92 W going eastbound but never exchanged information or checked on the victims’ well-being.

The affidavit further stated that when the officer conducted an inquiry into both the defendant and the victim through NCIC and FCIC, the defendant’s vehicle was found to have no valid insurance.

Brittany Godbold was taken into custody and charged with failing to carry motor vehicle liability insurance and leaving the scene of a crash involving property damage.

Incident Involving Christopher Godbold

During the crash investigation, a man named Christopher Godbold (whose exact relationship to Brittany Godbold is unclear) allegedly caused a disturbance with officers at the scene.

According to the arrest affidavit:

“On February 8th, 2025, at approximately 1730 hours, I arrived at the scene of a hit-and-run crash (WH25-745). I exited my marked patrol vehicle wearing my Class B uniform, which has a police patch on both the front and back, to investigate the incident.

I observed the defendant, later identified as Christopher Godbold, running toward the scene. He approached me and Officer Zamora while banging his chest with his fist. Due to this behavior, I was forced to stop my investigation. Godbold was yelling, ‘Don’t approach me,’ and became increasingly agitated when told he could not be at the scene under investigation. He responded by continuing to yell and throwing his glasses on the ground as he moved closer.

Officer Zamora and I instructed Godbold to leave the scene. He stated, ‘Do not touch me, or I will hurt you.’ As he walked away, he repeatedly stepped forward and muttered under his breath. At that point, Godbold was detained so we could continue investigating the hit-and-run crash.

Godbold stated that if law enforcement touched him, he would fight back. It should be noted that Godbold was not involved in the hit-and-run accident and did not require law enforcement assistance.

While being transported to the Polk County Processing Center, Godbold stated that if officers touched him, he would harm them but refused to elaborate further, saying it would incriminate him.”

As a result of the incident, Christopher Godbold is being charged with one count of making threats against a law enforcement officer with intent to prevent the officer from performing a lawful duty (F.S.S. 836.12(3)).

Don’t Forget It’s Almost “Jeepin’ With Judd” Time

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Jeep enthusiasts, mark your calendars for February 21-23, 2025, as the annual Jeepin’ With Judd event returns to Clear Springs Ranch in Bartow, Florida. This three-day, family-friendly gathering offers a variety of activities tailored for Jeep owners and admirers alike, with all proceeds benefiting Polk Sheriff’s Charities, Inc. 

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Event Highlights:

• Trail Rides and Obstacle Courses: Participants can navigate through stock, moderate, and advanced trails designed to challenge drivers of all skill levels. The event also features obstacle courses that test both driver and vehicle capabilities. 

• Show-N-Shine: On Friday, February 21, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, downtown Bartow will host the Show-N-Shine event. Attendees can explore local restaurants and shops while enjoying live music. This gathering is open to everyone, providing a vibrant atmosphere for Jeep enthusiasts and the general public. 

• Camping: For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the experience, camping is available from Thursday through Saturday nights. Whether you prefer a single night under the stars or the entire weekend, the event accommodates various camping preferences. 

• Cheep Jeep Raffle: Don’t miss the chance to win a 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport S 3.6L V6 4WD, generously donated by Kelley Buick GMC. With a fair market value of $35,500 as of April 16, 2024, this raffle offers an exciting opportunity for attendees. The drawing is scheduled for February 23, 2025, at 3:00 PM. 

• Pistol Raffle: For firearm enthusiasts, a commemorative Polk County Sheriff’s Office Ruger Vaquero .45 is up for grabs. With only 2,000 tickets available at a $10 donation each, this limited raffle is sure to attract attention. 

Registration and Participation:

While spectators are welcome to attend free of charge, Jeep owners wishing to participate in trail rides and obstacle courses must register their vehicles. The entry fee is $200 per Jeep, granting access to all event activities over the three days. Please note that camping fees are separate, and specialty trails may require additional passes. 

Photo from PCSO

Family-Friendly Environment:

Jeepin’ With Judd prides itself on being an alcohol-free event, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees of all ages. Pets are not permitted on the premises, except for certified service animals. Children can look forward to the Power Wheels trail, a dedicated area where young Jeepers can embark on their own adventures. 

Location:

Clear Springs Ranch is situated near the intersection of Cox Road and Ledley Ware Road in Bartow, Florida. For detailed directions and additional information, visit the official event website. 

Whether you’re a seasoned off-road veteran or new to the Jeep community, Jeepin’ With Judd 2025 promises an unforgettable experience filled with camaraderie, adventure, and the chance to support a worthy cause.

For a sneak peek of what to expect on the trails, check out this preview of the SAFARI moderate trail:

Harrison School for the Arts Musical Theatre Presents “Curtains”

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Harrison School for the Arts Musical Theatre department is excited to present Curtains on Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1 at 7:00 p.m. as well as Sunday, March 2 at 2:00 p.m. in the main theatre.

 

Curtains is a hilarious, backstage, whodunit musical set in Boston, Massachusetts in 1959.    When the talentless leading lady of a floundering theatre troupe mysteriously dies on stage, the cast and crew become suspects.  Police Lieutenant Cioffi, an avid musical theatre fan, must solve the case and restore the show in time for its Broadway debut.  As secrets are revealed and production numbers are rehearsed and rewritten, the body count rises.

 

Opening on Broadway in 2007, Curtains received 8 Tony nominations, with a win for David Hyde Pierce in the leading role. The Wall Street Journal hailed it as “a charming and witty homage to musical theatre”.  Indeed, though written recently, the musical has all the hallmarks of a classic: glamorous dance numbers reminiscent of Fred and Ginger, larger-than-life characters, and a toe-tapping score that the audience will leave humming.   Among all the mystery and intrigue, relationships are reconciled, love is found, and the resilience of the troupe shines through.

 

Tickets are $18 adults, $16 students/seniors and are available at www.harrisonarts.com/tickets.  Harrison School for the Arts is located at 750 Hollingsworth Rd., Lakeland, FL 33801.

 

Special thanks to our sponsor Cassidy Psychiatry.

 

Lakeland PD To Hold Joint Press Conference With Tampa ATF Discuss An Arrest In The 2020 Christmas Eve Shooting Which Left One Dead & 3 Other Injured

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The Lakeland Police Department will hold a a press conference announcing progress related to the investigation into a December 2020 shooting that left at least three Lakeland residents wounded and one deceased. On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the Lakeland Police Department, senior officials from the Lakeland Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms & Explosives and U.S. Attorney’s Office will update the public on the ongoing investigation.

According to the press release a suspect has been arrested in connection to the shooting, but it’s unclear if Taqiy Lewis (27, Lakeland) was the actual shooter. Lewis is currently in state prison after pleading guilty to trafficking drugs.

The press conference will take place at 10am tomorrow.

Here are the shooting details initially released by Lakeland Police:

“On Thursday, December 24, 2020, at approximately 5:40 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 1500 block of Amos Avenue in reference to a reported shooting. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found four victims, all with gunshot wounds. The victims, a 70-year-old female, 43-year-old male, 39-year-old female, and a 13-year-old female, were transported to area hospitals for treatment of their injuries. Shortly after arrival at Lakeland Regional Health, the 70-year-old victim succumbed to her injuries and was declared deceased by medical professionals. The other victims, who are all related, had varying levels of conditions upon arrival but are expected to survive their injuries.  

Officers were also notified that a 19-year-old male had arrived at the hospital with a gunshot wound. His injuries were sustained during the shooting incident and are not believed to be life-threatening.

Prior to the shooting, a 15-year-old male, who is also related to the victims, was involved in an altercation with other individuals at a separate location, which carried over to the residence at Amos Avenue. At some point, shots were fired by both a resident of the home and by the individuals who arrived at the residence related to the earlier conflict. Detectives, working in partnership with the State Attorney’s Office, are continuing to conduct interviews and follow-up on leads related to all parties involved.”

Florida Highway Patrol Searching For Suspect Who Shot At A 63 Yr Old Driver On I-275 Injuring Her & Causing An Accident

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On Monday, February 10, 2025, at approximately 5:00 PM, FHP Troopers responded to the report of a traffic crash along the southbound lanes of I-275 near Milepost 56. Upon arrival, Troopers located at 63-year-old Lutz woman who had suffered a medical emergency and had lost control of her vehicle. The vehicle, a GMC Yukon, had departed the highway and collided with the 57 Milepost road sign. Following that collision, the GMC returned to the travel lanes and collided with an unknown silver or white mid-sized sport utility vehicle. After this collision, the driver was shot at by an unknown assailant who fled the scene.

Upon arrival, Troopers found the victim driver bleeding profusely and applied life-saving measures to staunch excessive bleeding.

Troopers later discovered a bullet strike to the front driver’s side window with a departure path through the front windshield. Portions of the expended round were located in the rear seat of the vehicle. It was later determined that the victim in this case suffered lacerations from the window glass which resulted in the wounds observed by Troopers.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call FHP (347) or Crime Stoppers at **TIPS.

You Can Get a Free Dress or Suit for Prom from This Store. Here’s How!

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by James Coulter

Is your high school-aged son or daughter looking for a suit or dress for prom? Well, they can receive a prom outfit for free. And all they have to do is promise not to consume alcohol or other harmful substances on prom night.

InnerAct Alliance will be hosting its annual Project Prom initiative to offer free formal wear through a pop-up store at Lakeland Square Mall.

Local high school students looking for a prom outfit can visit the store, present their Polk County School ID, and sign a waiver promising not to consume alcohol or other harmful substances.

InnerAct Alliance is a local non-profit organization dedicated to combating substance abuse among local youth. As their website states, their mission is: “To reduce the abuse and underage use of harmful substances along with involvement in other risky behaviors.”

Angie Ellison, Executive Director for InnerAct Alliance, has been working for the organization since 2001. She had previously worked in marketing, but after staying home and working for a few non-profits, she decided to shift careers with InnerAct.

“Prevention is so important,” she explained. “It is great that we have the ability to help someone when they fall. Rehab, picking people up, getting them back on track is certainly important, but it makes more sense to me to help people avoid those pitfalls in life and help them be successful from the junk instead of waiting for something bad to happen.”

Project Prom will be operating its pop-up store at Lakeland Square Mall, located at 3800 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland, FL 33809 (use the entrance to the right of Dillards). The store will be open from 11 AM to 4 PM every other Saturday on Feb. 8 and 22, Mar. 8 and 29, and Apr. 5.

For more information, call 863-802-0777, or visit their website at: https://www.inneractalliance.org/project-prom.html

Angie Ellison recently appeared on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast to discuss Project Prom and the mission of her organization. Listen to the full podcast on Acast: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-53-the-villains-go-to-prom-wangie-ellison-sean-serdynski

It’s Good to be Bad! The Villains: A Syfy Bartow Celebration of the Bad Guys on Sat. Feb. 15

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by James Coulter

Where’s Batman when you need him? The Joker and other villains will be running amok in Downtown Bartow during Syfy Bartow on Sat. Feb. 15.

This year’s event will be themed to, “The Villains: A Syfy Celebration of the Bad Guys.” As such, the outdoor convention will be celebrating all of the bad guys we love to hate.

As with previous years, this year’s event will feature hundreds of vendors set up in Downtown Bartow, along with other fun activities including a scavenger hunt, costume contest, and even a car show.

Sean L. Serdynski, founder and event organizer for SyFy Bartow, has been hosting the outdoor convention for more than a decade. Every year has a different theme, and this year, he wanted to theme the event to a cast of characters that we love to see the good guys fight.

“I have never, ever celebrated the bad guys,” he explained. “I’ve never given them the main stage, if you will. And I have a lot of the cosplay groups and cosplayers who dress up as villain characters…[and I decided] to make this year all about the villains. It is fun to see all the costumes people are putting together to go along with the theme.”

Syfy Bartow will be hosted in Downtown Bartow on Sat. Feb. 15 from 11 AM to 6 PM. For more information, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/syfybartow

Sean L. Serdynski recently appeared on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast to discuss this year’s Syfy Bartow. Listen to the full episode on Acast: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-53-the-villains-go-to-prom-wangie-ellison-sean-serdynski

70 Yr Old Highlands County Man Charged With Shooting & Killing His Housemate After That Housemate Allegedly Beatup Another Housemate

Highlands County Press Release

Lake Placid man charged with first-degree murder

LAKE PLACID — A 70-year-old man is in the Highlands County Jail after being arrested for first-degree murder for shooting his 40-year-old housemate to death Monday night.

Deputies went to 109 Sarasota Street in Lake Placid shortly after 5 p.m. in response to a call about a man who had been shot. When deputies arrived, they found the victim dead in the front yard of the residence. They also found Rosalio Astorga Sanchez, who admitted to being the shooter.

Sanchez told deputies he was angry over the victim beating up another man who lived in the home. After the victim of the battery fled the residence, Sanchez said he went inside, grabbed a pistol, walked back outside and shot the victim.

This is a developing story and we will update as more information is released!

Photo Provided By Highlands County Sheriff’s Office

PCSO arrests Frostproof woman for 16 counts of animal neglect & cruelty

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On Friday, February 7, 2025, PCSO Agricultural Crimes detectives arrested and charged 65-year-old Christine Snelling of Frostproof with eight counts of animal cruelty (M1) and eight counts of animal neglect (M1). 

The investigation began on Friday, February 7, 2025 when patrol deputies responded to a home located on Keen Road in Frostproof to conduct a well-being check. As deputies approached the home to check on the homeowner (Snelling), they immediately smelled the overwhelming odor of ammonia, and observed several dogs running loose inside the home on a floor covered in feces. A van was parked in the driveway which displayed Snelling’s contact information and the business name “Road Dawg Animal Rescue Transport.” She confirmed to deputies that she owns the pet taxi business.

Deputies entered the home to ensure Snelling was not inside in distress. She was not present in the home, but a dead chicken and various dogs were observed inside the residence – obviously in need of medical attention. PCSO Agricultural Crimes detectives and Animal Cruelty investigators were contacted to take over the investigation.

Photo Provided By PCSO

The PCSO Animal Cruelty Investigations unit executed a search warrant on the house. The floor was covered in inches of feces; flies, rats and mice were present in the home. Investigators had to don personal protective equipment due to the intensity of the smell of ammonia in Snelling’s home. Eight dogs and three pigs were seized from the property; all of the dogs showed symptoms of prolonged exposure to ammonia and unsanitary conditions, including respiratory issues, nasal discharge, and eye infections. The animals did not have access to food or water, and there was no running water in the home at all.

“Ms. Snelling told my investigators she didn’t intend to harm these animals – she simply got overwhelmed by their needs. Caring for animals carries with it a responsibility to provide a healthy environment. There is no excuse for allowing animals to suffer.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

The investigation is ongoing at this time. More charges are possible, pending the outcome of veterinary checks of the animals seized from the home.