News Update for 9/12/22

Some heavy weather rumbled through Highlands County yesterday. Authorities say there were some powerlines and tree limbs knocked down – but no serious damage was reported.
The problem was local flooding. A number of properties and roadways were reported to have been submerged by the massive amounts of water that came in a short amount of time.
Some residents reported finding catfish in their yard after the storm subsided.

The start of the Lawnmower Racing Season has been put off – indefinitely. Early reports indicate the group’s contract with the city to compete on the northwest tip of the Avon Park airport had expired and apparently may not be renewed. No reason has yet been given, but it is known that Florida Airport Management is poised to take over operation of the facility on a long-term contract.
The Mowerplex was the first for-purpose lawnmower racing track in the country. NASGRASS officials have not revealed future plans.

Avon Park city council members are slated to take care of a couple budget issues when they meet this evening in regular session. They’ll look at a tentative millage rate and budget for the upcoming 2022-23 fiscal year. They also will look at setting establishing the fire/rescue assessment for residents and businesses in the City of Charm.
In other action, representatives of the Avon Park Boys & Girls Club will present plans to hold a professional wrestling event at their facility.

For those who don’t remember, it was this time five years ago that Highlands County was mopping up after Hurricane Irma swept through. The Category Three storm caused millions of dollars in damage, and disrupted power, gasoline, grocery and other services for weeks.
County officials collected and burned tons of downed trees and other brush as part of the cleanup effort.

Officials in Lake Wales are looking to increase business in the Crown Jewel of the Ridge. It’s called "The Studio," and is designed to offer mentorship, legal connections, marketing support and gallery space among other things.
Managers of the program say it’s made either for new businesses, or established operations that want to expand.