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Cooking on the Ridge: Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo

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Cooking on the Ridge: Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo
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by James Coulter

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!

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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.

National Weather Service Announces Rainfall Totals Across Polk County

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National Weather Service Announces Rainfall Totals Across Polk County

The US National Weather Service Tampa announced the rainfall totals around Florida from yesterday, February 24, 2025.

Many areas in Polk County saw over 2 inches of rain. Here are the recorded totals for Polk County:

...Polk County...
Tiger Creek                  2.64 in   0100 AM 02/25   FAWN
Lakeland                     2.59 in   0128 AM 02/25   CWOP
Lake Wales                   2.51 in   0100 AM 02/25   CWOP
Winter Haven                 2.19 in   0100 AM 02/25   CWOP
Lakeland                     2.11 in   0115 AM 02/25   CWOP
Lakeland                     2.03 in   0125 AM 02/25   CWOP
Winter Haven                 1.99 in   1253 AM 02/25   ASOS
Bartow                       1.96 in   0128 AM 02/25   CWOP
2 WSW Highland City          1.93 in   0130 AM 02/25   AWS
Bartow Airport               1.92 in   0129 AM 02/25   CWOP
Dundee                       1.91 in   0127 AM 02/25   CWOP
Avon Park AFR North          1.83 in   0101 AM 02/25   RAWS
Lakeland                     1.83 in   0130 AM 02/25   CWOP
Winter Haven                 1.81 in   0125 AM 02/25   CWOP
0.8 E Fort Meade             1.77 in   0115 AM 02/25   HADS
Hatchineha                   1.77 in   1249 AM 02/25   RAWS
Frostproof                   1.71 in   0129 AM 02/25   CWOP
Lakeland                     1.69 in   0130 AM 02/25   CWOP
2 SW Polk City               1.67 in   0130 AM 02/25   AWS
Lakeland                     1.57 in   0122 AM 02/25   CWOP
Homestead                    1.55 in   0126 AM 02/25   CWOP
Bartow                       1.47 in   0100 AM 02/25   HADS
Auburndale                   1.39 in   0129 AM 02/25   CWOP
Davenport                    1.24 in   0115 AM 02/25   CWOP
Davenport                    1.20 in   0130 AM 02/25   CWOP

Understanding Cybersecurity Risks and the NIST Framework: Identify

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Understanding Cybersecurity Risks and the NIST Framework: Identify

The Growing Cybersecurity Threat

With over 20 billion devices connected to networks this year, cybersecurity has become a critical concern. Cybercriminals are expected to exploit these connections, costing businesses over $6 trillion in damages. Given this alarming reality, organizations must take proactive steps to protect their networks and mitigate cybersecurity threats.

Cyber for Profit

No One-Size-Fits-All Solution

Cybersecurity isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Each organization requires a custom-tailored security strategy based on its specific business needs. However, cybersecurity frameworks like NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) provide a structured method for identifying and mitigating risks.

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework

The NIST framework consists of five key functions:

  1. Identify – Determine what assets are in the environment.
  2. Protect – Implement safeguards to prevent cyber threats.
  3. Detect – Monitor and recognize cybersecurity events.
  4. Respond – Take action to contain and mitigate an incident.
  5. Recover – Restore systems and improve resilience.

Step 1: Identify Cybersecurity Risks

1. Asset Identification

Manufacturing Assets

To protect a network, organizations must first understand:

  • What devices are connected.
  • Where these devices are located (business or production environment).
  • The criticality of each asset.

For industrial environments, disruptions can halt production and impact supply chains, making risk assessment even more crucial.

2. Governance and Risk Assessment

Once assets are identified, companies must establish governance policies and rules of engagement to protect sensitive environments. A risk assessment helps in categorizing threats and determining whether devices need:

  • Patching
  • Replacement
  • Additional security measures

Tools for Asset Inventory and Vulnerability Management

Several cybersecurity tools help organizations identify and manage vulnerabilities:

  • Tripwire
  • Rapid7
  • Claroty
  • Nessus

These tools provide detailed insights into:

  • Hardware and operating systems (Windows, Linux, Unix).
  • Industrial control systems (Siemens, Honeywell, Rockwell).
  • Firmware versions and security vulnerabilities.

Overcoming Challenges in Cybersecurity Management

Many businesses, from small to enterprise-level, struggle with paralysis by analysis—being overwhelmed by the vast amount of security data. To avoid inaction, organizations can seek third-party expertise to help:

  • Prioritize vulnerabilities.
  • Develop a step-by-step risk mitigation plan.
  • Implement security walls and fortifications.

Final Thoughts

The first step in cybersecurity is understanding what you have and where your risks lie. Without a clear inventory of assets, businesses cannot effectively protect or defend their infrastructure.

For organizations seeking guidance in implementing cybersecurity strategies, professional consultations can help in assessing risks, identifying vulnerabilities, and building strong defenses.

About the Author:

Kip Kirchberg is an international cybersecurity expert with extensive experience in building and leading cybersecurity teams, as well as collaborating with Fortune 500 organizations to enhance their security posture.

His expertise includes, but is not limited to:

  • Developing and implementing SIEM platforms
  • Endpoint security solutions
  • Managing third-party remote access securely
  • Securing industrial control systems (ICS)
  • Deploying and optimizing next-generation firewalls
  • Assisting organizations in identifying cybersecurity risks
  • Generating actionable reports that drive informed security decisions
  • Building and maintaining incident response teams
  • Drafting and adopting corporate cybersecurity governance policies
  • Conducting internal and external penetration testing

With a proven track record in cybersecurity strategy and risk management, Kip is dedicated to helping organizations proactively defend against evolving cyber threats.

Davenport Man Convicted Of Lewd Battery and Traveling To Meet A Minor.

Carl Fish
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Davenport Man Convicted Of Lewd Battery and Traveling To Meet A Minor.

Davenport Man convicted of Lewd Battery and Traveling to Meet a Minor. On August 13th, 2022, Jonathan Restrepo, 25, traveled to meet a 14-year-old victim in Daytona Beach. The two met each other through a social media app. Restrepo took the victim to his home in Polk County where they engaged in sexual intercourse. After learning the victim was listed as a missing person, Restrepo drove the victim back to her home in Daytona Beach. Restepo was recently convicted by a Polk County Jury of Lewd Battery and Traveling to Meet a Minor. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 10th. State Attorney Brian Haas thanks Assistant State Attorney Dakota Griffenkranz and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for their work on this case.

Crash at Hwy 17 at Cypress Gardens Blvd in Winter Haven

Staff Reporter
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Crash at Hwy 17 at Cypress Gardens Blvd in Winter Haven

UPDATE 4:42 p.m. Call complete

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February 25, 2025 3:18 p.m.

Crash at Hwy 17 at Cypress Gardens Blvd has two northbound lanes blocked. The intersection is impacted as well.


Drivers will see delays and traffic backed up past the bridge towards Eloise. Drivers using Hwy 17 northbound should consider alternate routes.

Florida Sheriffs Association Announces 287(g) Compliance in All County Jails

Staff Reporter
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Florida Sheriffs Association Announces 287(g) Compliance in All County Jails

Winter Haven, Fla. (February 24, 2025) – The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) is pleased to announce that every county jail throughout the state has signed a written agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ensure compliance with 287(g) program requirements. This milestone underscores Florida’s commitment to public safety and the rule of law, positioning local law enforcement to play a key role in addressing illegal immigration at the community level.

As part of this effort, every county is working with ICE to ensure there are ICE deputized sheriffs’ deputies and correctional officers in all 67 county jails. This process includes a required background screening along with dedicated and specific training. This will allow deputies and officers to begin serving warrants.

The State Immigration Enforcement Council that was recently formed last week includes four sheriffs. This Council has been formed to coordinate with the State Board of Immigration Enforcement and provide guidance and strategic support to local law enforcement agencies. The Council will also collaborate with ICE on training opportunities, 287(g) program participation, and recommendations for expanding detention capacity to house criminal aliens awaiting deportation. These four sheriffs are on the Council: FSA President and Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters, Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, and Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.

Hear from each of the Sheriffs serving on the Council:

FSA President and Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell:

“Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed just how crucial strength in numbers and strong cooperation among law enforcement can be in keeping our communities safe. I’m proud to stand here with my fellow sheriffs to announce that every county jail in our state has partnered with ICE to fulfill the requirements of the 287(g) program. As a member of the State Immigration Enforcement Council, I’m honored to work alongside these law enforcement leaders to ensure that Florida’s immigration laws are upheld and that our streets remain protected.”

Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters:

“Illegal immigration has wide-ranging consequences, including a troubling surge of dangerous drugs into our state. In 2024, our officers in Jacksonville seized over 20 kilograms of fentanyl—enough to affect nearly 10 million people—and responded to 1,631 fentanyl-related deaths over the past four years. We remain committed to partnering with President Trump’s administration and our federal counterparts to secure our borders, protect Floridians, and establish a framework for the rest of the nation to follow.”

Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri:

“By training both new and experienced deputies and correctional officers to uphold federal immigration laws, as well as expanding our detention capacity, we will be able to enhance the safety of our communities. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we have seen that ICE has a renewed commitment to immigration enforcement, and we stand ready to assist. Having law enforcement at the table to be part of these critical discussions is valuable when it comes to implementing Senate Bill 2C effectively, and fortunately, we live in a state where that is recognized.”

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd:

“The State Immigration Enforcement Council will bring together local law enforcement and ensure that we’re prepared to work hand-in-hand with federal partners in one of the nation’s most significant efforts to address illegal immigration. By uniting our voices and sharing our resources, Florida continues to lead from the front in safeguarding our communities and prioritizing public safety.”

On February 13, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 2C into law, providing significant resources that empower local agencies to support the federal government in arresting, detaining, and beginning the deportation process for criminal illegal aliens. Through the work of the State Immigration Enforcement Council, Florida law enforcement stands ready to use these new tools to bolster public safety, ensure a more secure border, and uphold Florida’s commitment to law and order.

Lakeland Police Trainee Arrested For Shoplifting At Walmart

Carl Fish
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Lakeland Police Trainee Arrested For Shoplifting At Walmart

LAKELAND, FL (February 24, 2025) – On February 24, 2025, Officer Huascar Evangelista Vargas resigned from his position after being arrested for a retail petit theft which occurred on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. Had Vargas not resigned, he would have been terminated.

On February 19, 2025, shortly before 6:00 p.m., the Winter Haven Police Department was called to a shoplifting incident at Walmart, 7450 Cypress Gardens Boulevard Southeast. Vargas was observed by a Walmart Asset Protection employee failing to scan items while utilizing a self-checkout register. He was also observed scanning a lower priced produce item for a more expensive one. Vargas was found to have paid for a total of $83.80 worth of merchandise, but did not pay for $124.50 in food and household items. He was arrested for misdemeanor shoplifting and transported to the Polk County Jail. Vargas (age 27) was sworn in by the Lakeland Police Department on November 1, 2024, and was most recently in the field training program. 

2025 Local Hero: Patricia Salary

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2025 Local Hero: Patricia Salary

Patricia Salary continues to make a lasting impact on Winter Haven through her dedication to education, community service, and mentorship.

Patricia Salary, a proud native of Winter Haven’s Florence Villa Community, has spent her life dedicated to education, service, and her community. 

As a member of the last graduating class of Jewett High School in 1969, where she was crowned Miss Jewett High, Patricia’s journey has been marked by academic achievement, family devotion, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.

After earning her Associate in Arts degree from Polk Junior College, Patricia continued her education at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Sociology/Social Work and a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling. She furthered her studies at the University of South Florida and Florida Atlantic University, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to learning.

Patricia’s 41-year career in education included roles as a School Social Worker and a College and High School Guidance Counselor in institutions such as Polk Community College, Haines City, Lake Region, Bartow, and Sumerlin Academy. She retired with a legacy of compassion and dedication, having touched countless lives throughout her career. Her exemplary work has earned her prestigious awards, including the USF Upward Bound Award, the Virginia Snively Award- “She Knows Where She’s Going,” the FAMU Distinguished Alumni Award, and the Church Women United Valiant Woman Award.

Outside of her professional achievements, Patricia remains an active volunteer with several community organizations, including the Jewett High School Alumni Association, Florence Villa Community Association, and the Winter Haven City MLK Planning Committee. She is also a proud life member of the FAMU National Alumni Association and serves with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Florence Villa Community Development Corporation. Patricia’s deep connection to her community and church exemplifies her guiding principle: “If I can help somebody, then my living will not be in vain.”

As a devoted wife of 48 years to Rev. Arthur J. Salary, mother, grandmother, and godmother, Patricia Salary’s enduring contributions to Winter Haven, particularly in the areas of education, community development, and mentorship, have left an indelible mark on her city and beyond. Her lifelong dedication to service continues to inspire and uplift all who know her.

Suspect In Haines City Hit & Run Rams Police Vehicle & Flees Scene On Foot

Carl Fish
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Suspect In Haines City Hit & Run Rams Police Vehicle & Flees Scene On Foot

HAINES CITY, FL–On Saturday, February 22, 2025, at approximately 9:09 PM, Haines City Police Officers were dispatched to a hit-and-run in the area of U.S. Highway 27 and Bates Road, within the city limits of Haines City.


The victim was traveling westbound on Bates Road in her BMW when a male, later identified as 50-year-old Joshua Scott Johnson, driving a U-Haul box truck, hit her vehicle, then began accelerating and pushing the vehicle forward. Johnson then put the U-Haul in reverse and fled eastbound on Bates Road.


Haines City Police Officer Sean Bruner responded to the area of Bates Road near 10th Street North and observed the U- Haul attempt to bypass other vehicles by driving into the grass median. When Officer Bruner activated his emergency lights and sirens in an attempt to conduct a traffic stop, Johnson accelerated towards 10th Street North at a high rate of speed with a total disregard for the safety of other drivers in the area.


Officer Bruner initiated a short vehicle pursuit after Johnson into the Oakland Community and requested assistance from additional nearby units and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit. While at the intersection of 10th Street North and Avenue N, Johnson deliberately rammed Officer Bruner’s marked patrol vehicle, ultimately disabling and forcing the vehicle off the roadway into a private driveway. After intentionally striking Officer Bruner’s patrol vehicle, Johnson continued to flee southbound on 10th Street North until he crashed at the intersection of 12th Street North and Avenue N. Johnson then exited the vehicle and fled on foot, ultimately escaping law enforcement.


Johnson’s black wallet containing identification and bank cards with his name, in addition to a glass pipe with a white residue, was located inside the U-Haul truck. Additionally, the victim in the initial hit-and-run captured a photo of Johnson after he struck her vehicle.


Johnson is now wanted on three counts of Hit and Run, Aggravated Battery on LEO, Driving While License Suspended Revoked, Fleeing and Eluding, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.


Anyone with knowledge of Johnson’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Haines City Police Department at 863- 421-3636 or submit an anonymous tip to Heartland Crime Stoppers at 888-400-8477 or heartlandcrimestoppers.com.
Our Mission “To safeguard the lives and property of the people we serve, to reduce the incidence and fear of crime, and

22 Year Old Man In Critical Condition After Being Shot In Haines City Sunday

Carl Fish
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22 Year Old Man In Critical Condition After Being Shot In Haines City Sunday

HAINES CITY, FL– On Sunday, February 23, 2025, at approximately 9:51 PM, the Haines City Police Department was contacted by personnel at AdventHealth Heart of Florida Hospital reporting a patient who arrived at the hospital with a
gunshot wound.


Through further investigation, Haines City officers determined the shooting took place in the area of Avenue I and 13th Street North, within the Oakland community.


The victim, a 22-year-old Black male, was transported to another local hospital for further medical care, where he remains in critical but stable condition. At this time, it is believed this was an isolated incident and there is no immediate threat to the public.


Haines City Police Department Detectives are actively investigating this incident and urge anyone who may have witnessed or has information about the incident to contact the police department at 863-421-3636 or submit an anonymous tip to
Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-8477 or online at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com.

This is an ongoing investigation. An update will be provided if more information becomes available.

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