The Latest Local News

A discussion by the Avon Park city council about code enforcement resulted in questions being raised about the Highlands County building official. New Avon Park Vice Mayor Stanley Spurlock told council members he had witnessed unauthorized construction – yet after it was reported to the building official, nothing was done. The city has turned that Continue reading

It appears the City of Charm is poised for some significant growth. Avon Park city council members have approved wholesale zoning changes along Highway 27. The action upgrades 73-acres of property along the county’s busiest thoroughfare to C-2, or what is termed “Highway Commercial.” Among other things, that will permit the construction of restaurants, stores, Continue reading

The Avon Park city council held their last scheduled meeting of the year last night with a long session. Among other things, they started work on a program to let motorists know they are entering the City of Charm. Councilwoman Brenda Gray called for signage on the new traffic circle south of the city – Continue reading

Highlands County Sheriff’s officials are looking for help in finding out who killed a 34-year-old Sebring man. Deputies responding to a call at Highway Park Liquors – south of Lake Placid early Saturday morning, found the body of Lee Marvin Anderson. Anderson was still in his car, and reportedly had been shot several times. Anyone Continue reading

There’s been a break-in at another local gun store. Sebring Police say somebody went through a window at Boom Boom Guns & Ammo on Highway 27 shortly after 3:00 this morning. It’s unclear what – if anything was taken. Authorities say they are reviewing security camera footage in an effort to identify anybody involved in Continue reading

The Christmas season got underway officially in Highlands County last night as the Avon Park Christmas parade made its way down Main Street. The processional featured beauty queens, floats, marching bands, specialty units, dancers and antique cars. The City of Charm traditionally hosts the first processional of the season. Next up will be the Sebring Continue reading

It was back to class today for thousands of Highlands County School children. They had last week off for the Thanksgiving holiday. Motorists are cautioned to watch out for youngsters – especially those walking or riding their bikes home from school. And remember to slow down through school zones as well. The local Christmas Season Continue reading

Yesterday was Thanksgiving, a day of giving thanks and the ceremonial start of the Christmas season. Today is Black Friday, the beginning of the shopping season. Despite huge deals – local law enforcement officials report that things have been pretty quiet at the area’s big box stores. Local mom & pop stores are hoping to Continue reading

Today is Thanksgiving and that means a big dinner. For those who need it – or who don’t wish to eat alone there are a number of free offerings in the area. From 11 until 5 today, a meal will be offered at the Avon Park community center. In Sebring, the Salvation Army will be Continue reading

Fire wracked a duplex in Avon Park overnight. Avon Park firefighters were joined by units from West Sebring and Highlands Lakes in responding to the blaze on Geese Avenue shortly after 3AM. Authorities say the home was significantly involved when units arrived at the scene. Damage is said to have been extensive. No injuries were Continue reading