Highlands County is stepping into the spotlight in an upcoming episode of “Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid” — a nationally aired Public Television program. The segment, filmed in September, showcases the county as the true heart of Florida, where modern living meets old-Florida charm. Viewers will see how the area blends business opportunity, natural beauty, and community spirit, featuring highlights like its 100+ lakes, “value golf capital” status, strong agricultural roots, and expanding career education programs. The program will also spotlight Highlands County’s central location and welcoming, small-town character, making it a prime destination to live, visit, and grow a business.
The School Board of Highlands County is considering hiring The Southern Group, a lobbying firm, to help secure funding for major projects — including a new vocational high school. At a recent workshop, board members discussed how The Southern Group previously helped Polk County land $2.75 million in state funding for career academies. Superintendent Brenda Longshore said Highlands has already expanded vocational programs and hopes to add aviation and diesel mechanic training, but funding remains tight. The proposed vocational high school could cost around $10 million, and The Southern Group’s services would run about $4,000 to $5,000 a month. A formal proposal is expected soon.
A tense situation in Frostproof, Florida ended without violence after a 32-year-old man with a long criminal record peacefully surrendered to deputies. Jonathan Cory Weese was wanted on multiple charges — including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon — and had reportedly threatened a “shootout” with law enforcement. His girlfriend helped de-escalate the standoff, arranging a phone call between Weese and deputies that led to his safe surrender on Friday night, October 3rd. Weese was taken into custody and booked at the Sheriff’s Processing Center.
A Central Florida child is accused of threatening violence at his school. The Volusia County sheriff’s office announced yesterday 11-year-old Jesse McIntyre was arrested after allegedly threatening on TikTok to shoot up Campbell Middle School. Deputies learned of the alleged threat after a tip from the FBI. The VCSO says McIntyre did not have access to weapons.