The Latest Local News

A 25-year-old man from Lake Placid died late Saturday night in a head-on collision in Port Charlotte. Florida Highway Patrol says the man was fleeing a previous crash when he sped west on Harborview Road, crossed the centerline, and struck a Chevrolet Malibu driven by a 44-year-old man. Tragically, the crash also claimed the life Continue reading

Two people are dead and another was airlifted to a trauma center after a fast-moving house fire late Wednesday night on Jeri Kay Lane. Sebring Fire Department crews arrived within minutes of the 11:22 p.m. call and found the manufactured home heavily engulfed in flames. Firefighters quickly began suppression efforts, but two occupants were pronounced Continue reading

A 76-year-old Sebring man was killed Tuesday morning after being struck by a semi-truck on U.S. Route 27 near Lake Josephine Drive. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the man entered the southbound lane and was hit around 11:17 a.m. He was taken to a local hospital, where he later died. The crash remains under Continue reading

The annual Cracker Trail Ride is making its way through Highlands County, traveling through Highlands Hammock State Park and camping overnight along County Road 635. This morning, riders are continuing east on State Road 66 and are expected to cross U.S. 27 and onto U.S. 98 around midday before camping near Lorida tonight. Drivers should Continue reading

Emergency crews responded to a brush fire Sunday on Arbuckle Creek Road that grew to 47 acres after a vehicle fire spread into nearby dry grass. Highlands County Fire Rescue, Emergency Management, and the Florida Forest Service worked together to contain the fast-moving flames, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. Multiple engines, brush trucks, Continue reading

Highlands County residents serviced by Florida Waste Solutions are reminded that bulk waste pickup runs February 16th through the 20th. Bulk items include large household goods like couches, chairs, mattresses—wrapped in plastic—bed frames, rolled carpet, toilets, and similar items that won’t fit in your cart. Construction debris and extra garbage bags are not accepted, and Continue reading

Soup Up the Arts returns to Sebring High School on February 26, raising funds for seven Highlands County families facing serious medical conditions. Organized by students, the event features handmade ceramic bowls, live student performances and a silent auction. Admission is $15 for children and $20 for adults from 4:30 to 7 p.m. For more Continue reading

Exciting news for race fans-Multi-platinum country artist Colt Ford will headline Friday night entertainment at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring on March 20th. The concert is part of Fan Zone entertainment scheduled throughout race week, March 18th–21st. He will take the stage at 9 p.m. in the Fan Zone. The 74th running of Continue reading

Highlands County Extension will host its second Ag Tour of 2026 on Thursday, February 25, giving residents a behind-the-scenes look at local agriculture and natural resources. Stops include a Dundee Citrus CUPS grove, a citrus-to-biochar project, Classic Caladiums, Barben Blueberry Farm, and Lake Istokpoga Park. Tickets are $100 and include a steak lunch, refreshments, and Continue reading

Highlands County Natural Resources wants to hear from the community. The County is planning future improvements at Sun ’n Lake Preserve and is asking residents to share their ideas and feedback. They’re working with Kimley-Horn on the project, and public input is open through the end of February. Visit highlandsfl.gov to take part and help Continue reading