The polls are open in Avon Park for their municipal election and so far, turnout has been light. On the ballot there is the mayor’s seat – currently held by Garrett Anderson. He’s been challenged by Aljoe Hinson. Also up is the council seat now held by Deputy Mayor Jim Barnard. Former councilman Terry Heston is looking to win that one.
Three proposed charter change amendments also are on the ballot. Both Precincts 1 & 2 open in downtown Avon Park today from 7am until 7pm.
Highlands County School officials are stepping up their game on security. Bus-riding students this morning were issued a Zonar card to use as an electronic bus pass.
The card will track check-in and to check-off busses. It can track the location and time of students entering or exiting a bus. It also may be used to find bus arrival and departure times. Students will be required to carry and use the card.
NEWS 11/5/19 BF
FUGITIVES
A couple of local fugitives reportedly have been captured. Highlands County Sheriff’s officials say 17-year-old Sebastian Martinez was nabbed at Eagle Pass, Texas at the border crossing there. He’s wanted in connection with an Avon Park shooting incident in December of last year.
Sheriff’s officials in Polk County say they too have word one of their wanted men being captured. 34-year-old Marlon Tyrone Burgess was picked up in Georgia. He’s facing attempted murder counts for an incident in Lakeland.
Three people were taken to the hospital from an accident in Sebring last night. Officials there say Steven Bianco of Deerfield Beach was injured whe a car driven by Joan Stucke of Sebring pulled from Hammock Road and onto Highway 27 in front of his oncoming motorcycle.
He, Stucke and a passenger in Stucke’s car were transported for treatment. Stuke has been charged with failure to yield.
Police in Lake Wales have made a collar. The QP convenience store on the Scenic Highway reportedly was burglarized this morning.
Reports indicate that the suspect was still inside when officers arrived at the scene. He was apprehended and now is in custody. No names or other details have yet been released.