News Update for 1/27/22

It appears we’ve been under the microscope and didn’t even know it. According to reports, The National Center for Health Statistics in conjunction with the US Department of Health & Human Services have been using Highlands County as a site to generate test data on the health conditions and concerns of local residents.

Apparently, they have been quietly headquartered in four, interlocking medical trailers parked at a secured location on the grounds of the Sebring International Raceway.
About 20 people per day reportedly have been taken to the site for examination. The announced purpose is to evaluate the health and nutritional staus of adults and children both here and across the country.
They’ve been working here since November, and plan to wrap up sometime next month.

Avon Park Fire Chief Andy Marcy is getting a new car. Council members in the City of Charm gave him the go-ahead to purchase a new vehicle, after he explained his ongoing problems with the current car – not the least of which was the vehicle’s propensity to shut off while he is driving.
The new command vehicle will be a for-purpose built Chevy Tahoe at a cost of just under $56,000.

Highlands County Sheriff’s officials 41-year-old Frankscena Ghent has been found and is safe. They have declined to say where she was or what happened during her disappearance.
After being released from the Highlands County Jail on Jan. 5th she had been incommunicado since yesterday – causing the Sheriff’s office to issue the All Points Bulletin.

Want to make your voice heard? The Highlands County commission reportedly has openings on several advisory boards and committees.
Members may rule and advise on matters brought before the commission. Currently there are nearly a dozen committees that need members – including the board of adjustment, the children’s services board, dangerous dog board and historic preservation committee among others.
Be aware, some board members have to meet certain – very specific – requirements to be allowed on such committees.
A full list of committees looking for members may be found on the Highlands County website.