After years of setbacks local citrus leaders say orange juice production is making a comeback. Ray Royce told county commissioners growers are planting hundreds of thousands of new trees, with millions more going in across Florida. He says production is expected to increase this year, with more fruit being harvested both locally and statewide. Despite citrus greening challenges, leaders say new techniques and investment are driving a strong rebound for Florida citrus.
The Tanglewood Art League recognized top student artists at a juried awards ceremony held at South Florida State College’s Museum of Florida Art and Culture. Kennedy Andrews and Shakira Mercado each received $300 awards and certificates for their artwork. Andrews was honored for her clay and mixed-media creations, while Mercado was recognized for imaginative, surreal-style art inspired by nature and emotion. The Art League says it has supported student artists in the region for 16 years.
Authorities revealed new details after a major undercover operation led to 19 arrests targeting suspected child predators in Polk County. One of those suspects is Thomas Hicks, a 68-year-old man known locally for portraying Santa Claus. Investigators say Hicks allegedly offered money and described explicit acts to someone he believed was arranging access to a 13-year-old. Sheriff Grady Judd stated, “It never ceases to amaze us… we even arrested Santa Claus during this undercover operation. Hicks now faces multiple felony charges, including human trafficking.
A Central Florida woman is under arrest after deputies say she hit two children with her SUV and fled the scene, killing one and seriously injuring another. Investigators say 30-year-old Victoria Johnson struck the boys as they crossed a road near a church in Winter Haven. An 8-year-old died, while a 10-year-old suffered severe injuries. Authorities say Johnson later gave conflicting stories before admitting she “may have hit someone,” and told deputies she had used methamphetamine before driving. She now faces multiple felony charges.