Newly released autopsy reports have confirmed that 20-year-old Jayden McCamont and her fiancé, 29-year-old Kashief Walker, died from carbon monoxide poisoning during the April 3rd fire at the Econo Lodge in Avon Park. Investigators found both had inhaled lethal levels of carbon monoxide before the fire was extinguished. The Highlands County Fire Rescue report also noted there were no working smoke detectors, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, or fire suppression systems in or near the room.
The City of Sebring is once again exploring an open container ordinance for its downtown entertainment district. The proposal would allow customers to purchase alcoholic beverages from participating businesses and carry them within designated downtown areas. City staff is drafting the ordinance for City Council consideration, with details such as operating days, hours, and district boundaries still to be determined.
If you’re interested in helping shape the future of downtown Avon Park, there’s a chance to get involved tonight. Avon Park Main Street is hosting a community workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Community Center on West Main Street. Residents can learn about the Main Street program, hear its history from founding board member Justine Devlin, and share ideas for future downtown improvements. For more information, call 863-657-7492.
Sebring is receiving national recognition once again. HGTV’s Home Town Takeover, which featured the city’s downtown transformation, has earned its first-ever Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Instructional/How-To Program. City leaders say the show has boosted tourism and business activity since it aired, with more visitors, increased downtown foot traffic, and growing interest in Sebring’s revitalized historic district.