Six candidates have qualified for three Sebring City Council seats in the March tenth city election. Mayor John Shoop and City Clerk-Treasurer Kathy Haley face no opposition and will secure new three-year terms. The council race pits incumbents Lenard Carlisle Junior, Harrison Havery, and Joshua Stewart against three challengers, including former council member Terry Mendel. Also running are CRA Board Chair David Leidel and Charles Wayne Russell, setting up a competitive council contest while the city’s top offices remain uncontested.
Fort Meade is facing yet another lawsuit from a former employee—this time from its ex–HR director and COO. Veronica Hairston claims she was harassed, demoted, and ultimately fired after investigating a sexual harassment complaint against the city’s interim manager and refusing to alter evidence. Her whistleblower lawsuit alleges pressure, retaliation, and a hostile work environment, raising fresh questions about leadership and accountability at City Hall. The case is headed to court, with a trial currently set for 2027.
A famous piece of Florida history is stepping back into the spotlight. The iconic mural Prehistoric Life in Florida will be unveiled for a special one-day showing Thursday, January twenty-ninth at the Jack Stroup Civic Center. Art historian Dr. Keri Watson of UCF will discuss the history behind Florida’s New Deal–era post office murals, leading into the rare display of the massive Ice Age artwork. The event is free, open to the public, and part of the Florida Humanities Florida Talks series.
AARP’s free Tax-Aide program is returning to Lake Placid, offering no-cost tax preparation with a special focus on residents age 55 and older. Services will be available by appointment only at American Legion Post 25 on U.S. 27 North, starting Friday, Feb. 6 through April 10. Appointments are held Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Residents can begin scheduling appointments Jan. 26 by calling 863-273-3454. No walk-ins will be accepted.