Cooking on the Ridge: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

COOKING ON THE RIDGE: CHICKEN POT PIE SOUP

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INGREDIENTS

For the pie crust:
2 sticks (8 ounces) cold unsalted butter, cubed
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 cup ice water

For the soup:
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
2 sticks (8 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
1 large russet (Idaho) potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 pound diced carrots (2 cups)
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen pearl onions
1/4 pound deli ham, thinly sliced
1 pound skinless rotisserie chicken meat, cubed (3 cups)
1/2 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS

  1. Make the crust: You might think the butter is cold, but after you cube it, put it back in the fridge for at least 20 minutes.
  2. In a food processor, pulse the flour and sea salt until incorporated. Add the cold butter and pulse until just pea-size pieces of butter remain, 15 to 20 pulses. Add the ice water and pulse until a dough just forms, 15 to 20 pulses.
  3. Dust your work surface with some flour. Turn the dough out of the processor bowl and gather the dough into two 5-inch discs and wrap in plastic wrap. Freeze one of the discs for another use (it will last for weeks in the freezer if you wrapped it nice and tight). Chill the other dough disc in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (you can keep the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days).
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  5. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper. Using a floured rolling pin, roll the disc into a 12-inch round (it doesn’t have to be perfect). Prick it all over with a fork. Put the dough, with the parchment, on a baking sheet and bake until golden and crisp, about 30 minutes.
  6. Cool thoroughly and break into pieces.
  7. Make the soup: In a saucepan, bring the broth and milk to a simmer and keep at a simmer.
  8. In a big soup pot, heat the butter over medium-high heat until foamy. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the flour, reduce the heat to medium, and cook, stirring, until toasty and foaming, 2 to 3 minutes. Whisk in the broth-milk mixture, slowly at first, then add the salt and pepper.
  9. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add the potato, carrots, peas, pearl onions, and ham and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
  10. Stir in the chicken and cream and heat through for 5 additional minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with the broken pie crust on the side.

Lake Wales Public Library Dedicates Citrus Label Tour Sign and Banners

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Lake Wales Public Library Dedicates Citrus Label Tour Sign and Banners

 

The Lake Wales Library Association – Friends of the Library will dedicate the first Citrus Label Tour sign in Lake Wales, 2:30 p.m., November 17.

The Citrus Label Tour of Polk County is a new initiative to honor the families and businesses who built the citrus industry in Polk County.  Each site on the Polk County tour will feature a citrus label that once adorned the old wooden crates used to ship fresh citrus in the early 1900s.  The Citrus Label Tour signs are currently in Polk County communities including, Bartow, Lake Alfred, Haines City and Davenport.

The citrus label sign on the Lake Wales Public Library’s northwest corner will be a two-sided sign featuring labels from Waverly Growers.  Funding for this sign was donated by Waverly Growers’ president, David Crews and his wife, Carol.

In addition to the Waverly Growers sign the Lake Wales Library Association – Friends of the Library donated funding for three historic citrus crate label banners that will hang from the Library’s decorative light posts.

These three banners will feature labels from local growers including Mountain Lake Corporation’s “Lucky Day” brand and a beautiful label from Alcoma Corporation’s archives.  The final banner features Capri, a citrus brand from Seven Oaks Fruit Company, of Lake Wales.  Seven Oaks Fruit Company is no longer in business; however, this banner celebrates Lake Wales’ long history as a citrus industry leader.

The dedication of the sign and banners will honor David and Carol Crews and the Lake Wales Library Association’s contribution.  The ceremony will be followed by light refreshments in the Library’s main lobby.

For details contact the Lake Wales Public Library, 678-4004.

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Lakeland Police Department Searching For Serial Armed Robbery Suspect 

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Lakeland, Florida – On October 29, 2016, at 7:11 p.m., the Lakeland Police Department responded to an armed robbery at the Subway store, located at 5395 Socrum Loop Road. The cashier stated that the suspect approached the front register and lifted his shirt to reveal a handgun. The suspect demanded money and the cashier complied. The suspect fled on foot to the rear of the business.

On November 1, 2016, at 9:57 p.m., the Lakeland Police Department responded to an armed robbery at the Exxon Station, located at 4655 Socrum Loop Road. The suspect entered the business through the south side door, approached the counter and then produced a handgun. The suspect demanded the clerk to give him all the money in the register and then fled out the south side door. 

On November 6, 2016 at approximately 1:56 p.m., the Lakeland Police Department responded to XYZ Liquor, 2190 Hwy 92 East, in reference to an armed robbery. The suspect approached the clerk at the registered, lifted his shirt to reveal a handgun and demanded the cash from the register. The suspect fled on foot in an unknown direction.

A fourth robbery occurred in the Polk County Sheriff’s Office jurisdiction at the Marathon Gas Station, 111 Marcum Road, on November 3rd and it is believed to be the same suspect. The clerks were not injured in the robberies

The suspect is described as a white or light-skinned Hispanic male, approximately 6’0 tall, 150 pounds, clean shaven, possibly 25 to 35 years of age.  He was wearing a Tampa Bay Rays hat, dark shorts and a gray sweatshirt during several of the robberies. The suspect should be considered ARMED AND DANGEROUS.

If you can identify this suspect, please contact Detective Edward Sealey at 863.834.5991 or by email at [email protected].  Heartland Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest. To be eligible for a cash reward from Crime Stoppers you must contact crime stoppers before contacting police.

Amendment 2 Medical Marijuana Passes

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People suffering from debilitating conditions such as cancer and multiple sclerosis will have expanded access to medical marijuana after Amendment 2 was approved by Florida voters on Tuesday.

The amendment, which allows the use of medical marijuana prescribed by a doctor, comes after a similar question was defeated in 2014.

The new amendment contained more specifics about who would qualify for medical marijuana.

With it’s passage, amendment 2 will also permit caregivers to assist patients with marijuana treatments, as long as the caregivers undergo background checks and do not use marijuana themselves.

Amendment 2 Medical Marijuana
79% of Precincts Reporting (4,775/6,027)
Votes Split
✓ Yes 6,123,067 71%
No 2,488,506 28%

VETERANS DAY SPEAKER RECRUITED BY TOP MILITARY SCHOOLS

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VETERANS DAY SPEAKER RECRUITED BY TOP
MILITARY SCHOOLS
 
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AUBURNDALE- The City of Auburndale and the City of Lake Alfred will hold a joint Veterans Day program Friday. The event will be held in the downtown park in Auburndale. The program begins at 11 a.m. and will feature guest speaker Kelsey Ashbrook. This is the fourth year both cities have worked together to host a joint program. Last year’s program was held in Lake Alfred at the Veterans Memorial in Gardner Park.
“We love Veterans Day at the City of Auburndale,” said Cody McGhee, parks and recreation director. “It is a chance for the city to honor those who have served and who are serving.”
Upon graduating Auburndale High School in 2013, Ashbrook was accepted into three military academies: U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado and U.s Naval Academy in Maryland. Ashbrook attends the U.S. Naval Academy where she majors in honors oceanography, manages the men’s varsity tennis team, is a member of the SCUBA Club, Baptist Collegiate Ministries and is a photographer for the Academy’s satirical magazine.
Attendees will also hear from Kat Gates-Skipper, the first woman marine in combat operations. Skipper serves as a veteran’s advocate and has received numerous awards for years of service.
The program will include musical selections from the Stambaugh Middle School Chorus.
The Auburndale Rotary Club is serving a free breakfast to local veterans prior to the event at the Auburndale Civic Center, 119  W. Park St. The breakfast starts at 8:30 a.m.
 

It Was A Rockin’ Good Time at Saturday’s “Rock’n Block Party” In Winter Haven

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When it comes to a good time, Jessie’s Lounge in Winter Haven seems to have the formula down pat!

Live music, food trucks and plenty of seating made for a rockin’ good time as Jessie’s Lounge took over a city block to hold their “Rock’n Block Party” on Saturday.

Local band Glass House Point kept the music flowing as 500+ party-goers mingled along a section of 3rd St SW.

Appearing November 12th is JJ Grey and Mofro. The event will also be outside on the street as well and is expected to draw 2000+ people in attendance. This elevates Jessie’s Lounge to heights resembling such venues as Jannus Landing in St. Pete and House of Blues in Orlando and marks the start of their outdoor music series.

Jessie’s next Food Truck Rally is Saturday December 10th and will feature live music by Lake Wales own, Hubo Bentley.

The event goes from 6-9pm. It is a free community event and is family friendly.

Jessie’s Lounge is located at 118 3rd St SW in Winter Haven.

For more info contact Jessie’s Lounge at (863) 298-9815

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Multiple Car Accident Blocking Hwy 27 In Lake Wales

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Lake Wales, Florida – On November 8, 2016 at approximately 11:30am officers with the Lake Wales Police Department were dispatched to a traffic crash at the intersection of HWY27 and Star Lake Dr. Upon arrival officers discovered the crash was between two vehicles and after colliding the vehicles came to rest in the middle of the northbound side of the intersection. Officers immediately began providing aid to the vehicle occupants, radioed for medical personnel to respond, and asked for traffic assistance to reroute northbound vehicles. Traffic was rerouted at HWY27 and Chalet Suzanne Rd while the traffic crash investigation was going on. The area of HWY27 northbound between Chalet Suzanne Rd and Star Lake Dr was closed during the investigation. The investigation revealed the following:

     Hikmat Zaben, a 23 year old Winter Haven resident, was traveling southbound on HWY27 driving a 2011 Volkswagen 2.0. At the intersection of HWY27 and Star Lake Dr. Zaben attempted to make a left turn across the northbound lanes of HWY27 onto Star Lake Dr. Zaben was the only occupant in this vehicle. Kathryn Freeland, a 69 year old Sebring resident, was traveling northbound on HWY27 driving a 2008 Chrysler Town and Country. Freeland was traveling in the inside lane and was passing through the intersection of HWY27 and Star Lake Dr. Jane Klingensmith, a 77 year old Lake Placid resident, was a passenger in this vehicle. When Zaben made the left turn, attempting to cross HWY27, he collided with Freeland in the middle of the intersection. Both drivers stated they had a green signal so they proceeded through the intersection. Officers watched the traffic signal for several cycles and the signal was working as it should. Zaben and Klingensmith were alert and talking at the scene but were airlifted to Lakeland Regional Medical Center due to their injuries. Freeland was transported by ambulance to Florida Heartland Hospital in Sebring due to her injuries. We have not received any updates on their conditions.

     HWY27 northbound traffic was reopened to its normal traffic flow at approximately 2:21pm. Both vehicles were removed from the scene by tow trucks. This is an ongoing investigation and at this point no charges have been filed against either driver. Anyone who witnessed this crash is asked to contact Officer Alfredo Carlos at (863) 678-4223 extension 563 or Officer John Schwarze at (863) 678-4223 extension 524.

Lake Alfred Man Arrested For Sexual Assault With Help From DNA Evidence

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7d2c9c0f-1ee9-4198-ae4d-8554e79480fdWinter Haven Police Department Press Release

A career criminal is back behind bars after a DNA match in a 2003 sexual assault has led to his arrest.
On 11-4-16, an arrest warrant was obtained for 45 year-old Stephen J. Berouty (pronounced Buh-Roo-ty) (DOB 3-26-71) after Winter Haven Detectives received confirmation from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) lab that DNA matching Berouty. With assistance from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Berouty was arrested at his mother’s Lake Alfred residence without incident.
The assault, which occurred on 6-12-2003, involved a woman who saw Berouty walking in the area of 2nd St and Post Ave. SW in Winter Haven just before midnight. She told Detectives he looked harmless and wanted to do a nice thing by giving him a ride. When Berouty got in the car, he told the victim he would buy her something to eat if she would go to the drive thru at Taco Bell.
When the pair got their food, they went to the boat ramp at Lake Howard Dr. and Central Ave. and ate. They had a conversation inside of the car and Berouty kissed the victim. The victim felt uncomfortable and they both exited the vehicle. While they were out of the vehicle, they sat on a bench and Berouty attempted again to kiss the victim and repeatedly touched her.
It was at this point Berouty attempted to unbutton the victim’s jeans. The victim resisted and Berouty pulled a knife and held it to her throat saying, “You’ll do… you’ll do what I want or else I’m gonna hurt you.” The victim feared for her life and she did as he said. As she was being assaulted, Berouty said, “As long as you do what I say, I won’t hurt you.” After the assault, Berouty fled on foot and the victim contacted police.
Officers responded to the area, but were unable to locate Berouty. The victim was taken for treatment and a sexual assault kit was obtained. The victim, who also had a laceration on her neck from the knife, was able to give a description of her attacker, but didn’t know his name except she thought he said a name that started with a “J”. (Berouty’s middle name is John.)
It was discovered during a July 2015 audit of sexual assault cases that the kit had not been submitted to the FDLE. When this discovery was made, the kit was sent to FDLE for analysis and results were returned on 1-27-16 with a possible DNA match identifying Berouty’s DNA. The profile developed from the swab was entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), which is a criminal justice DNA base.
On 3-25-16 detectives located Berouty and obtained a buccal swab to be submitted for DNA results as one more verification. An interview with Berouty was conducted and he denied knowing the victim or ever having sexual contact with her.
On 5-31-16, lab results from the buccal swab of Berouty were returned advising the DNA profile was verified as being the contributor/foreign DNA that was originally obtained from the victim’s sexual assault kit submitted in 2003. On 6-17-16 the results of the DNA lab tests along with the case file was forwarded to the State Attorney’s Office for review along with a complaint affidavit for the arrest of Berouty.
On 11-4-16, Detectives were contacted by the State Attorney’s Office with the results of their file review. Based on those results, a warrant for the arrest of Berouty was obtained and he was ultimately arrested at his mother’s Lake Alfred residence. (165 Itasca St.)
Berouty’s criminal history is extensive including multiple arrests for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, multiple arrests for Battery and Domestic Violence. He has also been in and out of the Polk County Jail 24 times.

27th Annual Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Gala

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It’s that time of year again; time to dust off the suit and tie or that evening gown you’ve been dying to show off, as party season is now upon us!

 

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And to start the season off right, make your plans to attend the 27th Annual Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Gala.

The 27th Annual Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Gala is considered Polk County’s premier, black tie event, with an audience comprised of the area’s most generous civic, business and philanthropic leaders.

This event will be held on Thursday, November 10th from 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM in a magnificent pavilion located at the Winter Haven Municipal Airport.

All proceeds from the gala event will be utilized locally to help underwrite a new state-of-the-art heart catheterization lab for the Winter Haven Hospital Bostick Heart Center.

For more information on the event, contact the WHH Foundation office at (863) 292-4138 or email [email protected]

Flaunt It, Swivel It “Whirled” Cup Skiing Competition Coming Nov 12th in Winter Haven

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The Flaunt It, Swivel It “Whirled” Cup Skiing Competition is coming to Lake Silver on Nov 12th in Winter Haven from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

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The Flaunt It Swivel It tour was designed to advance the lives of girls and women through the sport of Swivel Skiing.

A swivel ski is a wide, single ski in which the binding platform is mounted on ball bearings enabling the skier to rotate 180°, 360°, 720° and 1080° while the ski is still facing toward the tow boat.

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The Flaunt It Swivel It tour is designed to facilitate fun and fair events for all ages across the world, to attract swivel skiers and new officials, promote their development, provide education and to positively influence the future of the sport.

Florida is the final tour stop. Come on out and enjoy the tournament on beautiful Lake Silver at the Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Winter Haven