Traffic accidents were the order of the day yesterday, with no fewer than three incidents bringing out first responders. A pickup reportedly hit a power pole off Highway 66 near McCoy Road south of Sebring yesterday afternoon. The force of the impact caused an electrical arc – which started nearby brush afire.
Earlier, one person was airlifted out after two vehicles came together at the intersection of Highway 27 and Lake Francis Road north of Lake Placid. Two people were seriously injured in another crash at County Road 17 and Tauchens Road south of Sebring. One of them was airlifted out with the other taken to the hospital by ambulance.
Fire charred about 10 acres and consumed a storage shed yesterday near the intersection of Old Plantation and Tartan roads near Red Beach Lake. Officials say an arcing transformer started the fire, which was fueled by dry brush and fanned by gusty winds.
No injuries were reported in putting that one out.
The Champion for Children Foundation last night handed out their second round of youth awards. Among those picking up hardware was overall winner Jamesa Blackstock
Middle School Special Recognition Winner was Reah Smith with Henlie Johnson picking up Elementary School Special Recognition.
Recipients were nominated for their strong character, positive behavior, meaningful impact, and service to others.
The third edition of Operation Green Light will wind up today. Officials of the Highlands County Clerk of Court’s office say they are waiving collection agency fees and driver’s license reinstatement for those with suspended licenses.
Full payment of all fines is required to take advantage of the offer.
Highlands County tourism officials again are turning to sports in an effort to entice visitors here. No fewer than five special events have been scheduled for the months of April and May.
On the docket are an American Junior Golf Association tournament, a Jet-Ski race to be staged by ProWatersports on Lake Jackson, a Minor League Golf Tour will conduct three tournies at Sun ‘N Lake, an action-packed weekend is planned duruing the Sebring Multi-Sport festival and Bono Bilt Wrestling will host their Sunshine State Showdown in the Alan Jay Arena at the Highlands County Fairgrounds.