Special weather statement issued by National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin Fl affecting Polk:
Satellite imagery and surface observations indicate patchy areas of dense fog are developing across sections of West Central Florida, and may affect sections of Southwest Florida later this morning. Visibilities may be reduced to 1/4 mile or less at times in localized areas. Motorists should be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Use low beam headlights, reduce your speed, and maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.
Visitation for Jose Benites will be held February 27, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Oak Ridge Funeral Care 2425 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881.
Funeral service will be February 28, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Ridge Funeral Care.
Lidia F. Lynch, cherished wife, mother, grandparent “Lita”, sister and friend, passed away peacefully at Winter Haven Hospital on February 15, 2025. She was surrounded by her loved ones in her final moments.
Born on May 25, 1957, in the Dominican Republic, Lidia was the beloved daughter of her proud parents Danilo and Lidia “Liana” DeSoto. Though trained as a physician, Lidia’s passion for learning led her to a fulfilling career in education. She is fondly remembered by her students at St. Teresa of Avila Middle School and Bishop Maginn High School in Albany, New York, and her colleagues who became some of her closest friends.
Lidia, affectionately known to her family as Lita, married Dr. Joseph Lynch, her high school sweetheart, in 1980, on Long Island, New York. Together they built a family that was truly her pride and joy. Lidia wanted nothing more than to see her three children and their families happy and cared for. She was the very essence of selflessness, ensuring that everyone else’s needs were met before her own. Lidia had a deep love for adventure and nature, enjoying travel, music, skiing (especially the lodge!), and camping –hobbies she shared with all of her children.
Lidia was a force to be reckoned with. She was as smart, quick-witted and funny, as she was generous, compassionate and kind. Her laugh lit up any room she walked into. She delighted in calling her children with silly stories or sending them funny gifts – anything to bring laughter and joy, even on the greyest of days. The only thing she ever requested was a fridge magnet in return!
Her eldest daughter Samantha will miss Lidia’s love of musicals, which inspired her love of every music genre. Sam fondly remembers her mother playing the piano as a morning alarm before school. Lidia’s son Joey, who lives in New York, will miss her evening phone calls, a ritual he unknowingly grew to love over the years apart. Her youngest daughter Jessica will miss the chaos of their lively board game nights and the playful bets they made, too often resulting in Lidia’s victory.
Lidia did nothing by halves. She embraced every occasion as one to be celebrated, and every event as an opportunity for the spectacular. In fact, she married Joseph a total of four times just to have another opportunity to celebrate their love. This flair for the theatrical remained true even in her final moments, passing away just minutes after her beloved father, Danilo Desoto, in a poignant Grand Finale – one that leaves her family with a sense of comfort and awe.
Lidia is survived by her husband, Joseph J. Lynch; her daughter, Samantha Lauricella Frener (Gil Frener); her son, Joseph D. Lynch (Kristina Wieneke); her daughter, Jessica Mehleisen (Chris Mehleisen)l; her beloved grandchildren, Vi, James, Leilene, Sofia, Leila, Cristiano, Darian and Killian; her sisters, Josefina Bonanno (Anthony Bonanno), Ana Scudellari (David Scudellari) and Maria Hershman (Kenneth Hershman); and her many cherished nieces, nephews and cousins. She was blessed with the deep and lasting friendship of Ashe, who brought her great joy, and had a special bond with her daughter-in-law, Kristina, who will miss Lidia’s daily messages and encouragement.
Lidia was preceded in death by her parents, Danilo and Lidia “Liana” DeSoto; her brother, who she missed deeply Danilo DeSoto and Samantha’s late husband, Joseph Lauricella. We find comfort in knowing that Lidia will be reunited with them.
A memorial mass will be held on Wednesday, February 26, at 9am, at St. Matthew’s Church in Winter Haven, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Lighthouse for the Blind, a cause close to Lidia’s heart.
Lidia leaves behind a legacy of love, coupled with unshakable faith and firm convictions. A legacy is not measured by the monumental things or achievements. It is the indelible mark one leaves on the hearts of those they love and those who love them. Lidia truly left an imprint on the hearts of all those who were lucky enough to know her and to love her.
Lidia’s presence is already deeply missed, leaving the world a lot less colorful, but a little more organized.
Lita’s family knows she will be waiting for them on Mars.
With great sorrow, the family of William “Bill” Daughtry announces his passing on February 14, 2025, in Auburndale, Florida. Born on June 29, 1954, in Lakeland, Florida, Bill was a cherished husband, father, brother, uncle, and papa. He lived a life marked by kindness, humor, and honesty, traits that endeared him to all who knew him.
Bill dedicated many years of his life to his career as a plumber, a profession in which he took great pride and found much satisfaction. Whether working on small leaks or resolving complex plumbing issues, Bill approached each day with diligence and integrity, forming lasting bonds with his employees and clients alike.
A man of the outdoors, Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, and any activity that allowed him to appreciate nature’s beauty. He had a profound love for vintage cars and could often be found working in his garden or preparing a barbecue feast for family and friends. His culinary skills were rivaled only by his eagerness to embark on new travel adventures.
Bill was predeceased by his parents, William Daughtry Sr. and Imogen, and his sister, Dee Collins, whose memories he treasured dearly.
Bill’s family was his greatest joy, and his legacy lives on in those he leaves behind. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 44 years, Gayle; and a proud father to his son, Matt (Lauren) and daughter Abby; his sisters, Patty (Rodger) Harrison, Jeanie (Mike) Rousch, and niece-sister Teresa (Ray) Baumbach; his granddaughters, Emaleigh, Paige, Kinley, Sunny, and River, who will forever cherish time spent with their adoring papa; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Family and friends celebrated Bill’s life on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM. Rather than flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his name to the Moffitt Cancer Center or St. Jude’s, organizations that held significant meaning to Bill and those he loved.
Though he has departed this world, Bill’s impact and legacy will be felt for generations. His kindness, warm laughter, and genuine honesty are lasting imprints on all who were fortunate to know him.
In loving memory of Leola McGriff, born in the charming town of Winter Haven, Florida, on May 31, 1944, who peacefully passed away on February 12, 2025, also in Winter Haven.
Leola was a devoted and cherished presence in the lives of her family and friends. She was 80 years old. Leola was a compassionate home health aide, dedicating her life to caring for others with warmth and loyalty—a testament to her inherently kind nature. Known by many as a people person, Leola made everyone feel like family. Her enduring kindness and loyalty have left a profound mark on all who knew her.
Her home was a gathering place, alive with the love of family and friends. Leola had a passion for collecting antiques and crystals and was renowned for her culinary skills. Known affectionately as everyone’s mom or grandma, she relished the moments spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, cooking and savoring the joy of togetherness.
Leola was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James McGriff; her parents, Johnny and Lettie Bivins. She leaves behind a legacy through her loving children sons,
James (Tanger) McGriff Jr. and Walter (Yvonne) McGriff; daughters Lutrica Smith and Tammy McGriff; brother, Robert Lee Bivins; along with 11 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of immense pride and joy to her.
Family and friends gathered to honor Leola’s life with a visitation on Friday, February 21, from 5-7 pm. A funeral service celebrating her life took place on Saturday, February 22, with interment immediately following. Leola McGriff will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to live on through the lives she touched and the love she inspired. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude for the expressions of kindness and encouragement during this difficult time.
And God will wipe every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.
Laurie Ann Tomlinson, 63, passed away on February 15, 2025. She was born to Joel and Barbara Williams on August 7, 1961, in Bartow, Florida. Laurie was a resident of Polk County all of her life and worked in the citrus industry for over 20 years. Her family was her world. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joel and Barbara Williams. Laurie is survived by her lifelong partner, Ronnie Tomlinson: children, Vanessa Hampton (Zach), Shirli Tomlinson, John Tomlinson; grandchildren, Jammie, Jayna, Brianna, Haley, Elena, Tristan, and Aaliyah; brothers, Larry Williams, Jeff Williams (Carol), Cleve Williams (Jennifer), and Jerry Williams (Denise); and numerous cousins, nephews, nieces and friends. A Memorial Service will be held at Steele’s Family Funeral Services on March 14, 2025 at 11:00 am.
April 10, 2025 – JOANN announced this week: Discounts just got bigger – at least 30-60% off everything.
UPDATE
JOANN announced another price drop- now take up to 50% off the entire store
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UPDATE
Yesterday on March 3, 2025, JOANN announced a big sale for all stores. Now is the time to shop if you’re a crafter! Take up to 40% off
*limited exclusions apply
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Original post: Recently JOANN announced that it will be closing all of its stores. JOANN is a Hudson, Ohio based chain craft store known for its fabrics, sewing and knitting supplies.
Photo of Winter Haven location provided by Daily Ridge reader
According to their website, they have opened around 850 stores in 49 states.
On February 12, 2025, the store made an announcement that it would be closing roughly 500 stores across the nation in an effort to “right-size” the footprint of the company.
Fast forward to yesterday, February 24, 2025 when the store made another announcement- that the remaining stores open will be liquidated due to failure to find a new store buyer.
According to their customer FAQ, “JOANN leadership, our Board, advisors and legal partners made every possible effort to pursue a more favorable outcome that would keep the company in business.” they stated.
For those wondering when the stores will officially go out of business, here is JOANN’s response:
“Subject to Bankruptcy Court approval of the transaction, the winning bidders plan to begin winding down the Company’s operations and conduct going-out-of-business sales at all locations.” They expect to continue or start going out of business immediately.
The JOANN stores in Polk County are in Winter Haven and Lakeland. There is also a store nearby in Kissimmee. Contact each store separately for exact closing dates & details.
It has been announced on their website that all sales are final.
Winter Haven location:
1522 Third St SW Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 299-1552
Lakeland location:
4241 Us Highway 98 N Lakeland , FL 33809 (863) 859-5395
Kissimmee location:
4801 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy Kissimmee , FL 34746 (407) 396-1234
Edited to add: the following is the most recent press release-
“Following a comprehensive sale process and auction, GA Group together with the Prepetition Term Loan Agent, has been selected as the winning bidder to acquire substantially all of JOANN’s assets. In connection with this agreement, subject to Bankruptcy Court approval of the transaction, the winning bidders plan to begin winding down the Company’s operations and conduct going-out-of-business sales at all store locations.
JOANN leadership, our Board, advisors and legal partners made every possible effort to pursue a more favorable outcome that would keep the company in business. We are committed to working constructively with the winning bidder to ensure an orderly wind-down of operations that minimizes the impact on all our stakeholders. We deeply appreciate our dedicated Team Members, our customers and communities across the nation for their unwavering support for more than 80 years.”
27-year old Jordan Montoya of Homestead surrendered to Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies on Friday night, February 21, 2025, at around 11:30 pm.
Montoya, along with 29-year old Alfredo Casanova of Homestead, are accused of stealing two black swans and six eggs from the Highland Village neighborhood in Lakeland on February 12th.
Casanova was booked-in to the Polk County Jail on February 19th.
Both men have been charged with burglary of a structure (with an enhancement for crossing county lines) and grand theft.
PCSO deputies recovered the swans and eggs and returned them to their home on February 17th.
Original Release: https://dailyridge.com/2025/02/17/polk-sheriffs-office-searching-for-two-suspects-who-reportedly-stole-two-black-swans-swan-eggs/
There are many things I miss about no longer living in Florida. Right now, the one thing I miss most (aside from its lack of snowstorms) is being able to attend Lake Wales Mardi Gras.
I’ve been covering the annual celebration for many years. I’ve even participated in it with the Daily Ridge on their parade unit. I love the food. I love the beads. And overall, I love the atmosphere.
Sadly, since I no longer live in Florida, I won’t be able to attend the event this year. So, to make up for it, I’m going to celebrate Mardi Gras my own way through some good old-fashioned Creole cooking.
I’ve prepared gumbo several times before. I love the flavorful broth prepared with Cajun seasoning with heaping helpings of shrimp and andouille sausages. And poured over rice? It’s…chef kiss.
This year, I plan on preparing the dish for the family for a special Mardi Gras dinner with rice, potato salad, fried okra, and Kings Cake. It may not be as good as attending Lake Wales Mardi Gras, but it’s the next best thing.
Laissez les bons temps rouler! Let the good times roll!
***
Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo (from Delish)
Ingredients
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, chopped
2 stalks celery, finely sliced
12 oz. andouille sausage, sliced into 1/2″ rounds
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning (without salt)
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 (15-oz.) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled, deveined
3 scallions, sliced
Cooked white rice, for serving
Directions
1. In a large, deep skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter, then add flour. Cook, stirring constantly, until roux is dark caramel colored, 12 to 15 minutes.
2. Add onions, peppers, and celery and cook, stirring, until softened, about 8 minutes. Stir in sausage, garlic, and Cajun seasoning; season with salt and pepper. Stir in broth, tomatoes, and bay leaf and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 1 hour.
3. In the last 6 minutes of cooking, add shrimp. Once the shrimp is pink and cooked through, taste and adjust the seasonings. Stir in scallions, reserving some for serving.
4. Divide rice among bowls. Spoon gumbo over. Top with reserved scallions.
