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Lake Wales Police Seeking Public’s Help In Catching Possible Hate Crime Suspects

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An image of a Toyota Prius, released by the Lake Wales Police Department, recorded near the scene of the incident.

The Lake Wales Daily is referring to this case as a possible hate crime. Law enforcement has not classified it as such at this time. However, the targeted business is minority-owned, and the weapon used—a Molotov cocktail—is not a typical choice for vandalism. The haphazard way the paint was sprayed on the business’s window (“Civil War” in large letters, with “Trump” in tiny letters at the end) raises questions about intent. We will continue investigating this story. – Carl

The Lake Wales Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance identifying the suspect(s) responsible for vandalizing the Univista Insurance business located in Lake Wales in the early morning hours of Thursday, March 20th.

The suspect(s)threw bottles with flammable liquid, commonly referred to as Molotov cocktails through the front lobby glass and spray painted “Civil War Trump” on the front windows of the business. The fire caused damage to the interior of the business but it was not extensive.

A light colored Toyota Prius may have been involved in this incident.  

Heartland Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of $2,500.00 for information leading to an arrest in this case.

This remains an active investigation. If you have any information regarding this crime, please contact Lake Wales Police at 863-678-4223. If you would like to remain anonymous and be eligible for a CASH REWARD through Heartland Crime Stoppers, you can call 1-888-400-TIPS (8477) or from your cell phone, dial **TIPS. You can also visit the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on “Submit a Tip”, or download the free “P3tips” app on your smartphone or tablet to submit a tip.

ADVERTISEMENT OF SALE

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Notice is hereby given that Lake Wales Storage intends to sell the property described below to enforce a lien under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act, Statutes (section 83.80-83.809). The owner will sell at public auction on or after April 17,2025 at 10:00 am at storageauctions.com 

Units belonging to the following:

CUSTOMER NAME/UNIT #

Tikiasha Boone #365

Miguel Antonio Perez Rodriguez #1051

This sale will be continued on such succeeding sale days thereafter as may be necessary to be completed. *Unless otherwise noted units contain household items. 

In Loving Memory of Laura Estelle Shirey, 59

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Laura Shirey of Winter Haven passed away Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center.

Laura was born March 31, 1965, in Bronx, New York, to Luis Antonio Arenas and Maria Ines Santini. Laura was a greeter at Disney. She loved working for Disney and often visited the parks in her free time. She also collected Disney memorabilia. Previously, Laura was a Paraprofessional in New York. She never met a stranger she didn’t like but also had a few very long-term friends.

Laura is preceded in death by her father, Luis Antonio Arenas. She is survived by her mother, Maria Cruz and stepfather Hector Cruz; husband, Jerome Shirey; sons, Jacob Rivera of Kissimmee, and Paul Shirey of Winter Haven; Brothers, Luis Arenas, Jr. and wife April of Longpond, Pennsylvania, and Erik Arenas and wife Rachel Boschen of Bronx, New York. She is also survived by her nephews Michael and Matthew Arenas.

City of Lake Wales Voters Reminded to Verify Polling Location Before April 1

City of Lake Wales residents who are eligible and are planning to vote in the upcoming mayoral election on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 are reminded to verify their polling location before heading out to the polls.

Jennifer Nanek, city clerk for the City of Lake Wales, offers the following notice on behalf of the City:

“For the City of Lake Wales Municipal Election on Tuesday April 1, 2025, the polling location for most city voters has changed from the November election.

“For the upcoming municipal election, voting locations have been consolidated to two sites within the city. This decision is based on the lower turnout expected in municipal elections, allowing for cost-effective operations. We encourage all eligible Lake Wales residents to exercise their right to vote at one of these two locations.

“Voters in precincts 523, 527, 528, 530, 532, 535, 542 and 543 will vote at the Municipal Administration Building, 201 W. Central Avenue, Lake Wales. 

“Voters in precincts 519, 524, and 526 will vote at the Lake Ashton Clubhouse, 4141 Ashton Club Dr., Lake Wales, FL 33859

“All registered voters who live inside the city limits are eligible to vote in this election. Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

“Check your voting card or go to polkelections.gov.”

PCSO Working Fatal Davenport Crash

March 26, 2025 update

The PCSO Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating the death of a bicyclist that occurred as a result of a traffic crash in Davenport on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

 According to the preliminary investigation so far, around 12:40 p.m., a 62-year-old Davenport woman was stopped at the stop sign on Pinewood Drive at the intersection with Ronald Reagan Parkway, in her 2009 gold Toyota RAV4. At the same time, a man and woman were on their bicycles heading east on the sidewalk along Ronald Reagan Pkwy. The man proceeded across Pinewood, while his wife stopped on the sidewalk. The driver of the Toyota was looking east for westbound traffic, and then turned right to head west onto Ronald Reagan. The female bicyclist had just entered Pinewood at that time, and was struck by the Toyota. Despite life-saving efforts at the scene, she succumbed to her injuries. She was 65-years-old and visiting from Canada.

 The investigation is ongoing.

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UPDATE

Roadway clear as of 3:30 p.m.

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Original post

March 25, 2025- Polk County Sheriff’s Office has responded to a fatal vehicle crash on Ronald Reagan Parkway in Davenport, near Pinewood Drive.

Crews were dispatched to the scene around 12:40 p.m.

At the time of publication, the westbound lanes of Ronald Reagan Parkway are (still) closed, and traffic is being diverted. Please seek alternate routes.

Auburndale Police Asking for Public’s Help Identifying Two Beer Theft Suspects

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Auburndale Police Department-

ATTEMPT TO IDENTIFY:

On 2/19/2025, APD responded to the Circle K located at 1000 US Highway 92 W., in Auburndale, FL., in reference to a retail theft. Two (2) unknown Black Male suspects entered the store separately and began to steal multiple beer items. Both suspects left the store passing all points of sale with no attempt to pay for the items in hand. They were last seen driving away in a silver/gray Dodge Calibur, with damage to the right front bumper.

SUSPECT 1 – Unknown Black male, short red hair, last seen wearing black shirt with white print on front, black shorts with white print on leg, silver chain around the neck, and black and red socks (no shoes on).

SUSPECT 2 – Unknown Black male, short facial hair, gray and black ball cap, last seen wearing white t-shirt, black shorts with white, red, yellow, orange print on the leg, and black/white slides.

If you have any information, please contact Officer Rieger at 863-965-5555 or email at [email protected]

New Sidewalks, Lighting, Extended Roads, and Multiuse Paths Coming to Cypress Gardens Boulevard and US Highway 17

New Sidewalks, Lighting, Extended Roads, and Multiuse Paths Coming to Cypress Gardens Boulevard and US Highway 17

by James Coulter

 Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists will be able to enjoy new amenities along Cypress Gardens Boulevard and Highway 17, including upgraded landscaping, lighting, sidewalks, and multi-use paths.

 

At their meeting on Mon. Mar. 24, Winter Haven city commissioners voted unanimously to approve two resolutions supporting the application for funding from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

 

Both resolutions were to show the city’s support of FDOT funding for pedestrian, streetscape, and safety improvements to Cypress Gardens Boulevard and US Highway 17 respectively.

 

“In both Plans, the goal is to transform each roadway to a more urban feel supporting all forms of transportation,” wrote Planning Manager Sean Byers in the city agenda memo. “These are resolutions of support for FDOT Grant funding to make improvements to Cypress Gardens

Boulevard and US Highway 17, and are not specifically defined as a goal or strategy in the Strategic Plan.”

 

The improvements to Cypress Gardens Boulevard, which are estimated to be $14.24 million for design and construction, include:

• Extending approximately 1.7 miles along Cypress Gardens Boulevard from Old Helena Road/South Lake Florence Drive to Waterview Way;

• Installing a minimum 10-foot multi-use path on at least one side of Cypress Gardens Boulevard; and

•  Improving the intersection at LEGOLAND Way.

 

The improvements to US Highway 17, which are estimated to be $8.22 million for design and construction, include:

• Extending approximately 2.8 miles along US Highway 17 from Cypress Gardens Boulevard to Havendale Boulevard (SR 544)

• Removing portions of the continuous center left-turn lane and replace with raised landscape islands

• Widening existing sidewalks to a minimum of 6 feet in width; and

• Upgrading street lighting.

 

Linda Pfeiff, Vice President of the Traditions HOA, spoke during public comments to commend the city commission for considering these improvements. She especially commended them for the multiuse trail proposed for Cypress Gardens Boulevard, which would help encourage pedestrian and bike traffic.

 

“We commend you for looking forward,” she said. “We recommend you do long-term planning with the use of multi-use trails.”

Winter Haven High School Beach Volleyball Opening Ceremony

Winter Haven High School Beach Volleyball Opening Ceremony

After 2.5 seasons of playing away from home, Winter Haven High School Beach Volleyball is finally returning to campus! They are excited to announce the grand opening of the brand-new beach volleyball courts.

Images from WHHS volleyball opening ceremony video

Date: March 26th
Time: 2:45 p.m. Matches start at 3:30 p.m.
Location: Winter Haven High School Beach Courts (near softball fields)

Join them for an official opening ceremony as they mark this exciting milestone and usher in a new era for the volleyball program!

They would also like to express their heartfelt thanks to Polk State College, PSC Volleyball, the Polk County School Board and staff, and the many dedicated administrators whose unwavering support over the past 2.5 years has made this vision a reality. Your generosity and partnership have been invaluable to the program.

Be a part of history and celebrate! See you in the sand! Go Blue Devils!

NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Recover Function – Restoring Operations After a Cyber Incident

In today’s ever-evolving cyber threat landscape, organizations must not only focus on preventing and responding to cyber incidents but also on how they recover from them. The Recover function of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework plays a critical role in ensuring business continuity after a security event. This function emphasizes timely recovery and resilience, enabling organizations to restore services while mitigating future risks.

Understanding the NIST Recover Function

The Recover function is designed to help organizations quickly restore their capabilities and services after a cybersecurity incident. It focuses on building resilience and integrating lessons learned to strengthen future responses. The key categories within the Recover function include:

  • Recovery Planning: Developing and implementing recovery processes and procedures.
  • Improvements: Updating response and recovery strategies based on past incidents.
  • Communications: Coordinating with stakeholders, customers, and external partners during and after recovery.

Key Components of the Recover Function

1. Recovery Planning

A well-defined recovery plan ensures an organization can restore its critical operations with minimal downtime. This includes:

  • Establishing documented procedures for system restoration.
  • Defining roles and responsibilities for recovery teams.
  • Prioritizing essential business functions and assets for recovery.
  • Implementing redundant systems and failover mechanisms.

2. Continuous Improvement

Cybersecurity threats evolve, and so must an organization’s ability to recover. By analyzing previous incidents and conducting post-mortem assessments, organizations can:

  • Identify weaknesses in their cybersecurity posture.
  • Enhance their incident response and recovery processes.
  • Train employees on best practices for incident recovery.
  • Invest in technology solutions that support a faster and more secure recovery.

3. Effective Communication

Transparent and structured communication during recovery is essential to maintain trust with stakeholders. Organizations should:

  • Keep internal teams informed about recovery progress.
  • Notify customers and partners about potential impacts and resolutions.
  • Coordinate with regulators and law enforcement as needed.

Leveraging Technology for Recovery

To effectively execute the Recover function, organizations can leverage advanced security tools such as:

  • Backup and Disaster Recovery (BDR) solutions to maintain secure copies of critical data.
  • Incident Response Platforms (IRPs) to streamline recovery efforts.
  • Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools to monitor recovery progress.
  • Application Whitelisting solutions, such as PC Matic Pro, to ensure only trusted applications run post-recovery, reducing the risk of reinfection.

Benefits of a Strong Recover Strategy

  • Minimized Downtime: Rapid restoration of critical systems reduces operational disruptions.
  • Enhanced Customer Trust: Clear communication and swift action reinforce credibility.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Meeting cybersecurity standards helps avoid legal and financial penalties.
  • Resilient Infrastructure: Strengthening recovery processes ensures long-term cybersecurity resilience.

Conclusion

The Recover function of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework is crucial for ensuring organizations can bounce back quickly from cyber incidents. By developing comprehensive recovery plans, continuously improving strategies, and utilizing advanced security technologies, businesses can effectively mitigate risks and maintain operational stability. Investing in cybersecurity resilience today ensures a safer and more secure tomorrow.

About the Author:

Kip Kirchberg

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.

Book time with Me:

Pair Arrested For House Burglary In Davenport

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has arrested John Curtis Glover of St. Cloud and Harold Humphrey Jr. in connection to a burglary and fraudulent credit card scheme. The arrest follows an extensive investigation allegedly linking Glover and an accomplice, Humphrey Jr., to the theft of valuable electronics, personal items, and the unauthorized use of stolen credit cards across multiple locations in Florida.

The Burglary and Stole Items

On August 3, 2024, Davenport home owners on Coventry Rd returned to their home at approximately 11:00 PM to find their door unlocked but with no signs of forced entry. The couple, who use a key code to access their residence, discovered several high-value items missing, including a Lenovo Legion laptop ($3,000), a Fire tablet ($200), two Nintendo Switch consoles ($1,000), a Samsung watch ($1,000), a purse, and multiple American Express credit cards.

The burglary occurred while the home owners were visiting Universal Studios. They first became aware of suspicious activity when they received fraud notifications from American Express about unauthorized charges made that evening.

Fraudulent Transactions Lead Investigators to Suspects

Following the burglary, the stolen credit cards were used at multiple locations in Polk and Osceola counties, including:

• Dollar Tree (Kissimmee) – $43.81 at 8:53 PM

• Target (Kissimmee) – Two separate transactions totaling $468.12 at 8:21 PM and 8:23 PM

• Puff Stuff Smoke Shop (Davenport) – $126.74 at 7:22 PM

• Circle K (Davenport) – $55.66 at 6:50 PM

• Checkers (Kissimmee) – $6.34 at 9:59 PM

• Shell Gas Station – $130.78 at 10:12 PM

The total value of fraudulent charges amounted to $833.45.

Detective Rivera obtained surveillance footage from these locations, revealing a white male wearing a gray shirt making purchases with the stolen cards. Another suspect, seen in a Florida Gators long-sleeve shirt and gray hat, was identified purchasing Airbnb gift cards at Target.

Breakthrough in the Case

Authorities tracked a Lenovo laptop ping to a location in Kissimmee, leading them to a gray Ford Fusion registered to Humphrey, Jr’s mother. After contacting her, she identified her son, Harold Humphrey Jr., as the suspect in the video. She also provided his real-time location, leading officers to a residence on Pickering Drive, Kissimmee.

At the residence, another individual, allegedly confirmed that Harold was the person seen in surveillance footage and mentioned that several laptops and a Nintendo Switch were inside the home.

After being read his Miranda rights, Harold alley confessed to using the stolen credit cards but denied involvement in the burglary. He also identified the second suspect as John Curtis Glover.

Glover’s Arrest and Evidence Collection

Further investigation linked John Glover to the case. Surveillance footage from Checkers showed a blue Chevrolet Silverado with large chrome rims at the drive-thru during a fraudulent purchase. Investigators traced the truck to Glover, confirming it was registered in his name.

Authorities contacted Glover’s family, who reportedly identified him as the suspect in the Florida Gators shirt seen in various surveillance videos.

Investigators concluded that Glover and Humphrey unlawfully entered the Davenport home with the intent to commit theft. They were allegedly responsible for stealing and attempting to profit from the victims’ belongings, including electronics and financial assets.

Charges and Ongoing Investigation

Based on the evidence, both suspects now face charges for:

• Burglary

• Grand Theft

• Fraudulent use of a credit card

• Possession of stolen property