Families and caregivers of individuals with special needs are invited to the inaugural Free to Be Me Resource Fair this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lakeshore Mall in Sebring. The free event will feature local organizations, state resources, family activities, food, and support services designed to connect families with valuable programs and information. Vendor space is still available for those interested in participating.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Highlands County is collecting school supplies through July 17th to help local students prepare for the new school year. Needed items include backpacks, notebooks, pencils, crayons, folders, glue, and scissors. Donations can be dropped off at several locations throughout Sebring and Lake Placid. Organizers say the drive helps ease financial burdens for local families and ensures children have the supplies they need for classroom success.
After hours of public comment, DeSoto County commissioners voted to begin the process of a one-year moratorium on new data center applications. The proposed pause would not affect projects already under review, including a large data center proposal near Arcadia. Residents raised concerns about environmental impacts and water usage, saying more information is needed before future projects move forward. The moratorium ordinance will return to commissioners for a final vote.
A Bartow man and woman are facing multiple charges after deputies investigated a gunshot injury at a local hospital. Detectives say 21-year-old Madison Thomas accidentally shot herself in the toe and later provided false information about what happened. Authorities also allege 22-year-old Cazar Caraker encouraged her to lie and attempted to conceal evidence because he was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Both were arrested following the investigation and booked into the Polk County Jail.