A dramatic protest has ended with charges dropped against a Sebring man who went on a hunger strike to prove his innocence. Felix Tellez was arrested after a minor traffic stop in November, despite later testing at zero blood alcohol and negative for drugs. Prosecutors dismissed the case, closing a high-profile dispute that spotlighted DUI enforcement and a new state law allowing arrests even without alcohol in the system.
Avon Park City Council has completed interviews with three finalists for the city manager position—Jordan Fairfield, interim manager Jason Atkinson, and longtime government leader Steven Hunnicutt. Council members will compile their scores and review the results at tonight’s meeting. Candidates emphasized leadership, transparency, collaboration, and community trust as key priorities for the city’s future.
The City of Sebring has extended the deadline to submit lease proposals for its Municipal Golf Course to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20. City officials say the extension allows time to complete a boundary survey outlining exactly what the future lease will include. Several interested parties have already toured the property, and the selected lease is expected to take effect by October 2026.
The 14th Annual Crazy Pepper Chili Cook-Off heats up downtown Sebring this Saturday, January 17th, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Circle, presented by the Rotary Club of Highlands County. The event will feature chili tastings, a car show, food trucks, live music, and a chili dog eating contest. Drivers should plan ahead though-road closures around State Road 17 and nearby downtown streets begin at 7 a.m. and will have detours in place until 7 p.m.