A controversial road extension connecting Leisure Lakes and Placid Lakes has been approved unanimously by county commissioners. The one-mile Wildflower extension aims to ease traffic congestion but has raised environmental concerns. The $687,000 project, funded by the Road Construction Infrastructure Surtax, is expected to begin after October 2025. Officials will conduct environmental studies before construction. Supporters say the road will improve emergency response times and provide a much-needed alternative route. Opponents worry it could threaten endangered wildlife near Lake June Scrub State Park. Commissioners say the decision balances growth with conservation.
A Frostproof woman was arrested after attempting to flee from deputies twice during separate traffic stops, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. 35-year-old Kristin Ann Mittelstadt sped away from deputies on Masterpiece Road before a PIT maneuver was used to stop her vehicle. She was found in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Already out on bond for similar charges, Mittelstadt told deputies she fled because she feared a lengthy jail sentence. She now faces multiple charges, including fleeing to elude and driving with a suspended license.
SouthState Corp. has finalized a $457 million deal to sell 165 bank branches across six states, according to an SEC filing. The sale, completed Feb. 28, transfers the branch portfolio to Blue Owl Real Estate Capital, but SouthState will continue operating at these locations under 15-year lease agreements with renewal options. The Winter Haven-based bank says the transaction generated a pre-tax gain of $229 million, strengthening its balance sheet while maintaining its footprint. SouthState currently operates 371 branches with $46.3 billion in assets as of Dec. 31.
Sebring High School senior Riley Stone has been named the 2025 Champion for Children Youth Award winner, recognized for her dedication to community service. Stone, who has completed over 500 hours of volunteer work this year alone, was honored alongside six other finalists at the 6th Annual Champion for Children Awards. She credits her achievement to the support of those around her. Stone has contributed to raising $63,000 for charity, honoring veterans and supporting local organizations.
DeSoto County residents now have greater access to trades programs at South Florida State College, thanks to the Malcolm Family Endowed Scholarship. Covering full tuition and fees, the scholarship supports students in programs like welding, automotive service, HVAC, and more. DeSoto County residents are encouraged to apply, preferably those 25 years old or younger who have completed their first year at SFSC. Financial need and participation in the Boys and Girls Club of Arcadia are also considered. To apply, visit southflorida.awardspring.com.
A Polk City woman was arrested at a Mulberry Walmart after attempting to steal over $400 worth of merchandise and giving police a false name. Deputies say 54-year-old Tobi Willis tried to hide items in a bag and even wore stolen clothes under her own. Store security detained her until law enforcement arrived. Willis was booked into the Polk County Jail and now faces charges of retail theft and providing false identification.
St. Petersburg police are searching for a 36-year-old woman who may have been involved in the kidnapping and murder of 16-year-old Miranda Corsette sometime in February. Police Chief Anthony Holloway says the man believed responsible for Miranda’s murder, Steven Gress, is already in jail on unrelated charges. Now, he says, they’re looking for his domestic partner, Michelle Brandes. Holloway says Miranda was killed and dismembered, and her body placed in a dumpster in Ruskin.
A Seminole County teenager is accused of threatening a school shooting. Sanford Police announced yesterday Timothy Thomas was arrested for an online threat. The 17-year-old allegedly posted a video in which he threatens a shooting at Seminole High School. Thomas attends Elevation High School. In the video, police say Thomas had multiple guns, vests and other items of concern. The guns, though, turned out to be airsoft guns, and police say no weapons were found in Thomas’ home. He’s charged with intimidation written/electronic threat or mass shooting/terrorism act. Police Chief Cecil Smith says the arrest most likely prevented a tragedy and saved multiple lives.