News Update 8/21/25
The City of Sebring has sent a proposed ground lease agreement for its municipal golf course to the Blackmon family’s attorney, including a $1 purchase option. The lease would begin October 1, 2026, with the Blackmon’s required to invest at least $250,000 in improvements during the first five years. The deal also includes protections for the city: if Harder Hall doesn’t receive a full certificate of occupancy by December 31, 2031, the lease automatically terminates. Current golf course members would retain their benefits, and rent is set at $1 annually. The Blackmon family has already invested $10 million into restoring the historic Harder Hall, aiming to turn it into a full resort.
The Highlands County Board of County Commissioners is giving a big shoutout to the Natural Resources team and volunteers who cleaned up the mountain bike trails at Sun ’N Lake Preserve. The 1,350–acre preserve is part of the Florida Wildlife Corridor and protects rare habitats — from hammocks and wetlands to prairies — that are home to wildlife like the Florida panther, black bear, and crested caracara. Visitors can explore more than 15 miles of trails, fish in catch-and-release ponds, or just enjoy a family hike — and it’s all free. Volunteer days are held every other month, so locals can join in to help care for this hidden gem in Highlands County.
Polk County firefighters had a special call Tuesday morning when they helped deliver a newborn baby. Around 9:30 a.m., crews responded to a home on Southgrove Place, where a woman was about to give birth. Firefighter/Paramedic George Gibson, along with Firefighter/EMTs Daniel Banks and Madison Bennett, safely delivered the baby within just four minutes of arriving. Both mom and baby were taken to the hospital in good health. Fire Chief Shawn Smith praised the team, calling it one of the most meaningful moments for any first responder.
Governor Ron DeSantis is paying tribute to five people he calls Florida icons. DeSantis yesterday awarded the Governor’s Medal of Freedom, posthumously, to Senator Bob Graham, Congressman Buddy MacKay, Jr., singer Jimmy Buffett, Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart and FSU President John Thrasher. DeSantis says they exemplified what it means to be a great Floridian, and they left a lasting impact on the state and their communities.