Longtime Highlands County broadcaster John Meder has died. He was 90. Known to generations of listeners as "Meder in the Morning," Meder helped launch WWOJ Country in 1987 and spent nearly 35 years on the air. His voice became a familiar part of daily life across Highlands County, and his commitment to the community reached far beyond the microphone. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Rotarian and American Legion member, Meder was deeply involved in the Highlands County community, serving in a leadership role with the Greater Sebring Chamber of Commerce, leading efforts to raise funds for Sebring’s iconic "Welcome to Sebring" entrance signs, and supporting the Humane Society of Highlands County and local veterans’ causes. Meder retired five years ago. A celebration of his life, with military honors, will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery at a later date.
Avon Park City Council member Michelle “Shelly” Mercure has announced she will resign from the council effective September 15. Mercure made the announcement Monday night, saying she is stepping down due to an upcoming move out of state. She thanked the community for the opportunity to serve and said she approached her role with integrity and transparency. City officials are reviewing how her vacant seat will be filled.
Highlands County Sheriff Paul Blackman has reduced his proposed 2026-2027 budget by more than $4 million following county requests for spending cuts. Blackman initially proposed a $51.6 million budget but presented a revised $47.3 million plan after reducing positions, cutting department spending, adjusting employee benefits, and lowering cost-of-living increases. The cuts include eliminating 10 positions, including deputies, detectives, detention deputies, and telecommunicators.
The City of Sebring has received five proposals from groups interested in leasing the city’s municipal golf course. The proposals include submissions from Troon, Commonwealth Golf Partners, H&L Golf Group, the Blackmon Family, and J38 Group of Sebring. The groups will present their proposals to the City Council on August 4. This is the city’s second effort to find a leaseholder for the course.