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In Loving Memory of Jorge Luis Rivera Rivera

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In Loving Memory of Jorge Luis Rivera Rivera

Jorge Luis Rivera Rivera

December 14th, 1962 – March 10th, 2025

Jorge Luis Rivera Rivera, born on December 14, 1962, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025, in Winter Haven, Florida. At the age of 62, Jorge leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and humor that has deeply touched the lives of those around him.

Jorge was known widely for his work as an auto body finisher, a career through which he expressed his passion for cars and showcased his meticulous craftsmanship. Those who knew him could affirm that his work was a reflection of his character—steady, precise, and artful. Away from work, Jorge found joy in the rhythm of salsa music and the tranquility of his garden.  His home was often filled with the sounds of laughter and music, as he cherished every moment with his family, whom he loved dearly.

Jorge is preceded in death by his parents, Jorge Rivera De Leon and Bernardina Rivera Mercado. He is survived by his beloved wife, Raquel Carrasco; his sons, Jorge Luis Rivera, Christian Rivera, Ricardo Amacante, and Asher J. Rivera; his sisters, Elsa M. Garcia, Carmen Garcia, Rosa M. Rivera, Nancy I. Rivera, Sandra I. Rivera, and Mildred I. Rivera; as well as his adoring grandchildren, Taliyah Rivera, Alyssa Rivera, Mallory Rivera, Jonathan Rivera; and one cherished great-grandson; Stepsons, Christian Rodriguez, Junito Rodriguez; stepdaughter, Jessibel Rodriguez; step granddaughters, Jaymari Carde, Yuzia Carde, Linnette Carde, Jasielys Carde. Each of them carries a piece of his loving spirit forward. 

Family and friends were invited to pay their respects during the visitation on Saturday, March 15, from 10-12, followed by a funeral service at 12:00. These ceremonies were a time to honor Jorge’s life and commemorate the many ways he has enriched the lives he touched. In honoring Jorge Rivera Rivera, let us remember him for his warm heart, his joy in simple pleasures, and his unwavering devotion to his family. His life, though ended, remains a beacon of love and dedication, echoing through the generations he leaves behind.

Cooking on the Ridge: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

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Cooking on the Ridge: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Cooking on the Ridge: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

by James Coulter

 

I love curry. I love how the blend of sweet and spicy makes Indian food so flavorful. And I love being able to make my food extra spicy by adding hot peppers to the mix.

 

The only thing I love more than curry is my slow cooker. All you have to do is dump all your ingredients in the pot, turn it on, and let it cook through the day for a delicious meal come dinner time. So, of course, I love being able to prepare my curry dishes with my slow cooker.

 

And making the entire experience more convenient are curry sauces sold premade in jars. It certainly saves me time measuring and adding all of the different spices. All I have to do is dump the sauce in with my meat and veggies, and I have a scrumptious curry dinner by the end of the day.

 

I recently purchased my first curry simmer sauce and used it to make chicken tikka masala. The sauce was extra spicy, just the way I love it! The recipe is easy enough: just add the sauce to a pound of chicken and cook. 

 

However, like with all good recipes, it can always be improved with modifications. So, I also added diced onion, fire-roasted tomatoes, and green chilies for added spice. The result was a spicy helping of curry served with white rice and naan bread.

 

With how easy this recipe is, I certainly expect to prepare it for future meals. Maybe next time I’ll add jalapeno or even poblano and habanero peppers. The spicier, the better.

 

***

 

Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

 

Ingredients

 

1 lb. chicken thigh or breast

1 tbsp. minced garlic

1 15. oz. jar curry sauce (like Patak’s Taste of India)

1 diced onion

1 10 oz. can diced tomatoes (fire roasted for added heat)

1 7 oz. can green chilies or jalapenos (optional for added heat)

 

Directions

 

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized portions.

 

2. In a large frying pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.

 

3. Add the chicken and cook until the meat turns white.

 

4. Add contents to slow cooker along with sauce, diced tomatoes, and peppers.

 

5. Cook on high for six hours, or low for eight hours, or until chicken has been cooked thoroughly.

 

6. Serve with rice and naan bread.

Water Rescue Underway at Lake Roy in Winter Haven

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Water Rescue Underway at Lake Roy in Winter Haven

9:14 p.m. – Updated info on this afternoon’s tragedy:

Noah’s dad’s name is Ciriaco Gomez Benites. They are from Winter Haven. The cousin’s name is Gael Vasquez.

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4:43 p.m. – Tragic update in Winter Haven: PCSO has recovered the body of a 12-year-old child from Lake Roy. Sheriff Judd briefed the media at the scene shortly after 5:00 pm. 

A brief summary of the events that led up to the drowning: A local father was enjoying spring break with his 12 year-old son, 9 year-old son and 10 year-old nephew.
They put their boat in the lake to fish and swim. The boat was in the middle of Lake Roy when the boys went for a swim. The waters were rough with gusty winds (up to 30 mph). The children immediately had trouble swimming in these conditions, so the father quickly attempted to pull the children back onto the boat. He pulled the 9 year-old and 10 year-old back onboard the boat.
The 12 year-old (identified as Noah Gomez) and boat were drifting apart from one another so the father quickly jumped into the water and got his son onto his back, attempting to swim back to the boat. The boy then slipped off of his father’s back into the almost 20 feet deep water.

One of the children who was safe aboard the boat dialed 911 and crews quickly responded. Noah sadly succumbed to drowning. He was recovered less than two hours later at the bottom of the lake.

Please keep the Gomez family and all responding crews in your prayers.

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3:12 UPDATE

The following is an update from PCSO:

“The Polk County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the Winter Haven Police Department and Polk County Fire Rescue, is searching for a juvenile in Lake Roy in Winter Haven, who was swimming and has disappeared in the water.

We have our Marine Unit, equipped with underwater sonar devices, and our drones and helicopter overhead; PCFR has boats on the water as well, equipped with side-scan sonar devices.

We appreciate your patience and your distance from this active scene.”

Also please be advised: Eastbound lanes of Cypress Gardens Blvd in the curves area at Lake Roy is encountering severe backups due to a large law enforcement presence.

Drivers who usually travel eastbound on Cypress Gardens Blvd should consider taking 9th St around the area if at all possible. Westbound traffic is flowing with minor slowdowns.

We will continue to provide updates as they come in.

Thank you to one of our Daily Ridge readers for the video

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Original post:

On March 20, 2025 multiple crews responded to a water rescue on Lake Roy Dr S in Winter Haven. The 911 call came in around 1:30 p.m.

Crews arrived on scene at the Lake Roy boat ramp to assist.

At the time of publication, this is an active scene.

We reached out to Polk County Fire Rescue’s PIO Nathanial Gale for preliminary details.

As of 3:00 p.m. the following information is confirmed:

Crews are currently searching the lake for one individual.

Five boats/search units in total are on scene conducting a search- two belonging to Polk County Sheriff’s Office, two belonging to Polk County Fire Rescue and one belonging to Winter Haven Police Department.

PCFR and PCSO both have drones on scene to assist.


We will update this article as more information comes in.

March 20 Is the First Day of Spring; Here’s a Few Facts You May Not Know

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March 20 Is the First Day of Spring; Here’s a Few Facts You May Not Know

After a winter on the cooler side (something many of us welcome), it’s time to celebrate the first day of spring! The spring equinox occurred this morning, March 20, 2025, at 5:01 a.m. At that precise moment, the sun crossed the celestial equator (an imaginary line above Earth’s equator), causing both the Northern and Southern hemispheres to receive equal amounts of sunlight.

The spring season traditionally brings forth the sentiment of rejuvenation and renewal; new beginnings lie directly ahead.

While preparing for the warmer days ahead, here are a few interesting facts about the first day of spring:

There are other names for the spring equinox

In the Northern Hemisphere, the spring equinox is also referred to as both the March equinox and the vernal equinox. Vernal means “spring” in Latin.

The word equinox is derived from Latin

Equinox comes from the Latin words for “equal” and “night.” As the sun crosses over the equator, the hours of daylight and nighttime are almost equal. The equinoxes, of which there are two every calendar year, are the only times when the sun rises directly due east and sets directly due west for everyone on Earth.

March is time for the “worm moon”

The first day of spring invokes a season of renewal and new growth, both literally and figuratively. March showers may bring April and May flowers, but they also bring earthworms up and out of the soil. When the spring rains begin, it drives earthworms close to the surface. Thus, the full moon in March is referred to as the ‘worm moon”.

The Spring Equinox Tradition involving eggs

The spring equinox is not only the first day of spring; folklore claims that certain magnetic and energetic changes on the day of the vernal equinox make it possible to stand a raw egg on its end. Magical, right? As cool as this sounds, it is a myth. You may be able to balance some raw eggs on their end, but this can be possible at any time of the year.

Other planets also have equinoxes

Earth is special on many ways, but not when it comes to equinoxes. In fact, every planet in the solar system has an equinox, which occurs when the planet’s orbit and tilt, with respect to the sun, result in both hemispheres receiving about the same amount of light.

We use the spring equinox to determine the date of Easter

Unlike many of the holidays we celebrate, the exact date of Easter changes from year to year. Because Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Christian churches give great importance to the manner in which Easter Day is determined. It’s so important, according to Panos Antsaklis, PhD, a professor at Notre Dame University, that in the fourth century A.D., a group of Christian leaders came together to officially decide how to calculate Easter’s date. Their decision: Easter would be celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox.

Sources: The Washington Post, Bustle, Britannia, National Geographic, Panos Antsaklis, PhD.

Sun Safety in Florida: Protecting Your Skin as Summer Approaches

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Sun Safety in Florida: Protecting Your Skin as Summer Approaches

Living in Florida, we’re no strangers to sunshine—it’s one of the reasons we love it here. With summer just around the corner, spending time outdoors is a fantastic way to stay active and unwind. However, as the temperatures rise and we stock up on sunscreen, it’s worth taking a closer look at how to enjoy the sun safely.

The Sun and Skin Cancer: What’s the Connection?

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Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and the primary culprit is excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. These invisible rays, emitted by the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps, can damage skin cells over time, increasing your risk. Here in Florida, where the sun shines year-round, protection from UV rays is critical—not just in summer, but every day. UV rays don’t take a break on cloudy or cooler days, and they bounce off surfaces like water, sand, and concrete, amplifying exposure. For us Floridians, UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during daylight saving time (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. standard time), so timing your outdoor activities matters.

One handy tool to keep in your back pocket is the UV Index, which forecasts daily UV strength. If the UV Index hits 3 or higher—common in Florida—take extra steps to shield your skin.

Your Sun Safety Toolkit

Here’s how to enjoy Florida’s outdoors without putting your skin at risk:

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  • Shade: Seek out shade under an umbrella, tree, or canopy to lower your exposure. Even in the shade, sunscreen or protective clothing is your best defense.
  • Clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts, pants, or skirts when possible. Tightly woven fabrics offer the best UV protection, while wet T-shirts lose effectiveness. Darker colors might give you an edge over lighter ones, and some gear even comes with certified UV protection.
  • Hats: A wide-brimmed hat is your face, ears, and neck’s best friend. Skip straw hats with holes—tightly woven materials like canvas work better. Baseball caps are great, but pair them with sunscreen or clothing to cover your ears and neck.
  • Sunglasses: Protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them with sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Wrap-around styles are ideal to keep rays from sneaking in. Most sunglasses sold in the U.S. meet this standard, regardless of price.
  • Sunscreen: Before heading out, slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) that tackles both UVA and UVB rays. Apply a thick layer to all exposed skin—don’t skimp—and enlist help for spots like your back. Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Check expiration dates, too; sunscreen lasts about three years unless exposed to heat, which shortens its shelf life. For babies under 6 months, skip sunscreen and use shade or clothing instead.

Why It Matters Now

As summer nears, Floridians should be extra vigilant. Our state’s intense sunlight and reflective beaches make UV protection a year-round priority, but the longer, hotter days ahead call for action. Stocking up on sunscreen might just be your smartest move yet—combine it with shade, clothing, and smart timing, and you’ve got a solid plan to enjoy the outdoors safely.

This article is adapted from sun safety guidance provided by the CDC, available in the public domain. For more details, visit their official resources.

Winter Haven Public Library’s Spooky Book Club

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Winter Haven Public Library’s Spooky Book Club

Winter Haven Public Library:

Calling all fans of true crime! This month’s Spooky Book Club is delving into Richard Chizmar’s acclaimed “Chasing the Boogeyman,” a unique horror novel you won’t be able to put down!

Thursday, March 27th
5:00-6:00 PM
Find a copy here: tinyurl.com/SBC-March-2025

Come discuss this eerie read with fellow spooky book lovers! Haven’t finished? No problem—join in anyway!

About the book:
In the summer of 1988, the mutilated bodies of several missing girls begin to turn up in a small sleepy Maryland town. The grisly evidence sparks a rumor that the evil stalking local teens is not entirely human. Inspired by the terrifying events, our main character Richard begins to write a personal account of the serial killer’s reign of terror, unaware that these events will continue to haunt him for years to come.

Drunk Bradenton Man Arrested After Allegedly Making Death Threats & Banging On Davenport Residents Door

Carl Fish
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Drunk Bradenton Man Arrested After Allegedly Making Death Threats & Banging On Davenport Residents Door

Press Release PCSO

On Wednesday, March 19th, at around 3:53 am, PCSO deputies responded to a residence in the Champions Chase neighborhood (off of Ronald Reagan Parkway) in Davenport, due to a reported disturbance.

The resident had called 911 and said that someone was pounding and kicking the door, demanding that he be allowed inside, and he was making death threats. He was hitting the door so hard that he broke the door frame and dented the door.

When the deputies arrived, they found a man still at the door, and they detained him. He was identified as 27-year old Derek Pardue of Bradenton.

Pardue was #ArrestedByThePolkCountySheriffsOffice and taken to the Polk County Jail.

Pardue, who blamed his actions on being intoxicated, was charged with burglary and criminal mischief.

In Loving Memory Of Retired Polk County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant & Army Veteran Dan Logan Cooley

Carl Fish
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In Loving Memory Of Retired Polk County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant & Army Veteran Dan Logan Cooley

Dan Logan Cooley, age 69, died March 17, 2025, in Bartow, FL. He was predeceased by his eldest brother Tony, mother Peaches and father Cliff. He is survived by his wife Linda (nee Albritton), daughter Heather (Brian) Turner and grandchildren Anthony and Aurora of Davenport, son Cliff Cooley of Lake Wales, and younger brother Lee (Andrea) Cooley of Scottsdale, AZ. 


Born March 11, 1956, in Pompano Beach, Dan earned the rank of Eagle Scout at Troop 240 in Jacksonville Beach and graduated from Fletcher Sr. High School in Neptune Beach in 1974. He served four years in the U.S. Army and graduated from the University of North Florida with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Dan worked for a private security firm and at an auto parts store before a long career at the Polk County Sheriff’s Department as an investigator and Sergeant in Detentions. He was known as the “King of Contraband” which saved hundreds of lives. In his retirement, he worked part-time at Walmart and a local Dodge dealership. Dan also wrote a regular humor column for The Mulberry Press called “Old Coots Giving Advice”. He never stopped helping his community. He would hold presentations at a local elementary school and volunteer at the Luster African American Heritage Museum in Bartow. Every day he found ways to give acts of service to his community. He was a true Christian soldier.


The Family will receive friends from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm Friday, April 11, 2025 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home in Bartow, FL. A Celebration of Life Service for Dan will follow at 4:00 pm Friday, April 11, 2025 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family ask to make a contribution in Dan’s name to your favorite charity. Condolences to the Family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com

Bunny Trunk Hop & Egg Hunt at Christ Community Church

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Bunny Trunk Hop & Egg Hunt at Christ Community Church

Join us at Christ Community Church in Winter Haven for a FREE family-friendly event that’s perfect for all ages! Enjoy an evening filled with fun, featuring creatively decorated trunks offering candy and prizes.

Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 12, 2025

The event will also include exciting games, photo opportunities, and plenty of giveaways. As the event comes to a close, join in the excitement of an egg hunt to wrap up the festivities. It’s a fun-filled event designed to create lasting memories for families, so don’t miss out! Mark your calendars and bring the whole family for an unforgettable evening of treats, games, and prizes.

Christ Community Church is located at 1895 Overlook Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33884.

Winter Haven Man Arrested After Firing Gun and Threatening to Kill During Argument

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Winter Haven Man Arrested After Firing Gun and Threatening to Kill During Argument

25-year-old Coleton Smith from Winter Haven was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office on Monday, March 17th, after losing his temper during an argument. At approximately 5:50 p.m., deputies responded to a report of gunshots and threats to kill at a residence on Overlook Drive.

By the time deputies arrived, Smith had already fled the scene. It was later determined that he was the suspect, having gotten upset during the argument, stormed outside, and shot at a screen door while threatening to kill everyone.

A detective reached out to Smith by phone, but he refused to disclose his location, stating he wouldn’t be going back to jail.

Haines City police later received an anonymous tip that Smith’s vehicle was at Miracle Toyota on US 27. Officers responded, apprehended Smith, and recovered his handgun.

Smith refused to cooperate with the investigation, and he was booked into the Polk County Jail, facing multiple charges, including the use of a firearm during a felony, two counts of aggravated assault, improper exhibition of a firearm, discharging a firearm in a residential area, and culpable negligence.

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