William “Bill” Ryan of Lake Wales passed away Sunday, March 2, 2025 at Lakeland Hospice House.
He was born September 27, 1946 in Salina, Kansas to the late John and Dorothy Ryan; he moved to Lake Wales from Winter Haven in 2005. Bill was a retired claims adjuster for Kansas Farm Bureau in Great Bend, Kansas and attended Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lake Wales. He loved boating and cruised on a sailboat for eight years. Bill enjoyed fishing and took pride in his yard work. He was quick to become proficient in anything he was interested in.
Bill is survived by his wife of 57 years, Joyce Ryan; sisters, Mary Kay Kuntz of Salina, Kansas, Ann Haden (Terry) of Salina, Kansas, and Betty Rush (Chris) of Solomon, Kansas; and brothers, Francis Ryan (MaryLynn) of Salina, Kansas and John Ryan of Salina, Kansas.
A memorial service will be held at a later date in Kansas.
Lake Wales Highlander Band has drummed up (ahem) a great way to demonstrate their talents, include a culinary expo, and create an evening of dining, music and community camaraderie.
It’s dinner and a show: Night at the Movies, presented by the Lake Wales Highlander Band and the LWHS Culinary program, will be held at the Lake Wales High School gym for two nights, April 18 and 19, 2025, from 6-8 p.m.
The Highlander band and the LWHS culinary department have come together to create a night that will be one to remember!
With your ticket you will recieve a spaghetti dinner, a side, bread, dessert and unlimited drinks.
You will be entertained by the LWHS color guard, percussion ensemble, jazz band, symphonic band, wind ensemble, beginning band and so much more!
All tickets sales will go to the Lake Wales high school band program. A cash tip will be requested at the end of the night for the culinary department. It is requested that attendees bring cash for this part of the evening.
Tickets are $20 each, plus tax, and can be purchased in advance.
Art on Fire Studio is a small, family-run, woman-owned business, catering to people from all walks of life. It offers a fun and relaxing atmosphere perfect for creating and sharing with friends or family. Fun for all ages- the studio caters to most ages, from toddler to students to adults.
Regina Montesano is the owner of Art on Fire Studio and she shared her story behind opening the studio.
“Art is something I have come to appreciate later in life,” she said. “About ten years ago I found myself smack dab in the middle of a mess in life. Work was all-consuming, family was challenging and I needed to de-stress. I started adult coloring, playing around with canvas painting and a few other things, and found those activities to really help calm my mind. Then, one birthday, my sister surprised me with a paint-your-own pottery experience. Wow! What a fun yet peaceful experience. I was hooked. Fast forward to the fall of 2023. My husband and I were discussing retirement, brainstorming things we could do now to prepare for extra income once we finally bid farewell to corporate jobs. Going all pie in the sky, I mentioned opening a PYOP (paint your own pottery) studio. It wasn’t more than a few weeks later when a friend Diana Santiago Gill and I were discussing “if only I could….” daydreams and she said that she’s always wanted to open an art studio – paint your own pottery, polymer clay, etc. That was just the nudge we needed. We both seized the moment, began researching, pursuing our certifications and one year later, almost to the day, Art on Fire Studio opened its doors.”
They offer a variety of art activities including:
-Clay Handbuilding
-Mosaic Plaques
-Paint Your Own Pottery
-Throwing on the Pottery Wheel.
These are perfect for ALL levels of experience.
They also plan to launch their Fused Glass in March.
Throwing on the pottery wheel is an exciting and unique art experience. The studio has been lucky to have Chuck Byer as a mentor.
“Our spin instructor and manager, Andrea Friedmann learned the art of throwing pottery under his tutelage and to this day he continues to support us in ways too numerous to mention,” Montesano said. “We are fortunate to carry a number of his pieces for sale in our studio, both finished and also ready to glaze. Thanks to Chuck we also carry some very unique, poured items that are not readily available from some our larger vendors. He recently poured a Darth Vader for one of our clients and now we have orders coming in left and right! Chuck is one of our biggest fans and has become family. We even named our largest kiln after him.”
So what are you waiting for? Try this local Winter Haven studio out for yourself! Art on Fire Studio is located at 5937 Cypress Gardens Boulevard, Suite 500 in Winter Haven, FL 33884.
Montesano said, “Until I am ready to retire, my sister, Andrea Friedmann, runs the business along with the friend I mentioned earlier, Dianna Santiago Gill, who is referred to as our “sister from another mister.” We all enjoy our respective professions, but there is nothing quite like doing something for the sheer joy of it. For us, that is Art on Fire Studio. The goals we shared at our grand opening remain in the forefront of our minds – to offer a safe, relaxing space where creativity blossoms. We strive to cultivate a space where folks can feel from the moment they walk in the door, that they are valued, welcome and appreciated for who they are. From beginner to master, we have projects for everyone. Let us help you find your creative bone!”
Improvements to Peach Crossings Subdivision Infrastructure Approved by City of Winter Haven
by James Coulter
Improvements to sewer, water, and other infrastructure within a 13+ acre subdivision, which will provide more than 52 building lots for new homes, have been approved by the City of Winter Haven.
At their regular meeting on Mon. Feb. 24, Winter Haven city commissioners voted unanimously to approve a resolution accepting improvements to the Peach Crossings subdivision.
Located south of Eloise Loop Road and west of Pollard Road, Peach Crossings is a 13+ acre subdivision that contains 52 building lots and seven common lots.
On July 28, 2023, Peach Crossings had its platting approved through a resolution approved by the city. However, as the city agenda memo explains, “certain improvements were not completed at that time.”
City Clerk Vanessa Castillo wrote that the incomplete improvements included: “earthwork, sanitary sewer, potable water, stormwater management, and engineering certification.”
Since then, as the memo states, “recent inspections by staff found all incomplete improvements are now complete, and the water, wastewater, and reuse utilities can now be accepted by the City and the aforementioned Performance Bond released.”
City commissioners voted unanimously to approve the resolution approving these completed improvements to the subdivision.
Inclement weather may have prevented attendees from hitting the links at Country Club of Winter Haven, but it did not stop them from having a good time and raising proceeds for cancer research.
Despite the rain, the 18 Aces to Conquer Cancer experienced yet another successful fundraiser with attendees gathering to enjoy a delicious luncheon, vote on silent auction items, and reminisce on past events and winners.
The annual fundraiser for cancer research was hosted last Monday at the Country Club of Winter Haven. Normally, the event allows attendees a chance to win a JEEP lease with every hole-in-one, with more than $25 million worth of cars to give away.
However, while the rain may have dampened the golf course, it did not dampen the spirits of attendees, with many arriving for food and camaraderie and donating hundreds of dollars in proceeds for the cause.
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“People like hearing our money is going to change and benefit people’s lives,” explained event organizer Ralph Mahalak Jr.
Proceeds benefit the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute for Pancreatic Cancer Research. Mahalak Jr. was inspired to start the event more than 14 years ago after a few of his friends were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
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Many similar events were hosted for other forms of cancer like breast cancer, but not many were hosted to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer.
When the fundraiser first started, the pancreatic cancer survival rate was less than two percent. Now, more than 14 years later, those odds have risen to 21 percent. And Mahalak Jr. only hopes those numbers continue to rise.
“Hopefully, in my lifetime, we can get this up to 80 percent,” he said. “And I am not getting any younger. We got work to do.”
During those 14 years, nearly a dozen fundraisers have been hosted, with a few events skipped over due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Even then, the event has only grown bigger and better over the years. Last year saw an additional six shots, allowing six lucky participants to win big on the last hole.
Currently, a clinical trial for a new treatment involving radio waves is being tested through the institute which benefits from the fundraiser. Hopefully, that treatment will prove viable and allow fewer people to die from pancreatic cancer.
“That is pretty exciting,” Mahalak Jr. said. “Hopefully we can come up with ways for people diagnosed [to experience] better outcomes.”
No future date and location for the next fundraiser has been set. But Mahalak Jr. expects it to be bigger and better than this year’s. Also, he hopes it doesn’t rain.
To learn more, visit their website at: https://18acestoconquercancer.com/
Yesterday’s reported structure fire on Carriage Dr. in the Lake Wales Ranchettes sparked a secondary vegetation fire later in the day.
Nathaniel Gale, Public Safety Information Officer for Polk County Fire Rescue, says that crews were initially dispatched to an “outdoor fire at 11:05 a.m.,” on Monday, March 3, 2025. Upon arrival, crews noted a brush fire was occurring in a field along with a fully engulfed shed like structure. Two boats were also on fire. The crews began overhaul at 11:36 a.m. and the state fire marshal was notified. No injuries were reported.
Gale says the brush fire rekindled, causing the second call. Crews were dispatched at 1:55 p.m. and arrived on scene at 2:05 p.m. Crews had water on the fire at 2:08 p.m. and had it under control at 2:14 p.m. One person transported via ground. They were not a trauma alert.
The Polk County Board of Commissioners appointed Shawn Smith as the new Polk County Fire Rescue Chief Tuesday, March 4 at the board meeting. Smith was appointed by Polk County Manager Bill Beasley.
Smith steps into the role following an extensive career of dedicated service to the division and to the residents and visitors of Polk County. Smith began his career with Polk County Fire Rescue in 2003, joining as a firefighter. Throughout the years, he has held many ranks including Driver/Engineer, Lieutenant/Captain, Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief of Training and Operations, Assistant Chief of Business Services and most recently, Interim Fire Chief. Smith has served as Interim Fire Chief since September 2024.
His appointment as Fire Chief reflects his dedication to the department and his extensive experience in both operational and administrative roles.
“Shawn has demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to Polk County throughout his tenure with Polk County Fire Rescue,” said County Manager Bill Beasley. “His experience and deep understanding of the department’s operations make him the ideal candidate to lead PCFR into the future.”
Smith’s appointment as Fire Chief marks the next chapter for Polk County Fire Rescue, as he takes on the leadership of the metro size department. Under his guidance, PCFR will continue to focus on innovation, training and community engagement, ensuring that Polk County remains one of the safest places to live, work and visit.
“I am truly honored and humbled to be chosen to serve as Fire Chief of Polk County Fire Rescue. Having spent 21 years with PCFR, this department is more than just a workplace to me – it’s a family,” said Fire Chief Shawn Smith. “I want to thank the Board for their trust and confidence in me, and I’m excited to continue serving alongside the incredible men and women who make this department what it is. Together, we will build on our legacy, continue to strengthen our community and ensure Polk County remains safe and supported for years to come
In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses of all sizes. One of the most effective ways to enhance security is by following the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, which outlines key pillars for a robust cybersecurity strategy. In this article, we focus on pillar number two: Protect—which emphasizes securing applications, users, data, and endpoints to prevent cyber threats.
1. Application Management: Controlling Access
Managing application access is a critical step in protecting an organization’s digital assets. Businesses must ensure that only authorized users can access specific applications and systems. A best practice is to integrate applications with Active Directory (AD) or a similar identity management system. This approach allows organizations to:
Restrict access to applications based on job roles (e.g., accountants accessing financial tools, warehouse workers accessing logistics software).
Set time-based access restrictions to limit when users can access systems.
Simplify offboarding by revoking access instantly when an employee leaves, reducing security risks.
Without proper application management, organizations risk unauthorized access, which could lead to data breaches, insider threats, or operational disruptions.
2. Strengthening Password Security and Multi-Factor Authentication
Weak passwords remain a major vulnerability in cybersecurity. Organizations should enforce strong password policies, requiring complex combinations of characters, numbers, and symbols. However, passwords alone are no longer sufficient. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
Strong Password Tips
According to Microsoft, 99% of botnet attacks could be prevented with MFA. Implementing MFA ensures that even if a password is compromised, an additional authentication step—such as a text message code, biometric verification, or authentication app—is required to gain access.
3. Data Protection: Limiting Access and Encrypting Information
Data security is crucial for preventing leaks, breaches, and unauthorized modifications. Organizations should adopt the principle of least privilege, ensuring that employees can only access the data necessary for their roles. For example:
Restrict access: Accountants should not have access to shipping data, and warehouse staff should not access financial records.
Encrypt data at rest and in transit: Encryption ensures that even if data is stolen, it remains unreadable without decryption keys.
Regular backups: Keeping secure backups protects against ransomware attacks and accidental data loss.
4. Endpoint Security: Protecting Devices from Cyber Threats
Endpoints—such as computers, mobile devices, and servers—are common entry points for cyberattacks. Organizations should take the following steps to secure endpoints:
Keep operating systems and software updated to patch vulnerabilities.
Use advanced endpoint protection, such as antivirus, anti-malware, and next-generation security solutions.
Implement application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized software from running.
Endpoint Security using Application Whitelisting.
Traditional antivirus software is no longer enough, as many cyberattacks now exploit built-in system tools, such as PowerShell and command prompts, to execute malicious commands. To combat this, advanced security tools like PC Matic’s application whitelisting technology help detect and block suspicious activities before they escalate into full-scale breaches.
5. Industrial and Manufacturing Cybersecurity: Creating a Virtual Air Gap
Cybersecurity in industrial and manufacturing environments presents unique challenges. Many production systems run on outdated hardware that cannot support modern security software. The best solution is to create a virtual air gap using a next-generation firewall that separates the business network from the production environment.
A firewall with user- and application-aware controls can prevent unauthorized access while allowing necessary data exchanges. Organizations can also use an industrial DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) to provide a secure middle ground where specific systems can communicate without exposing the entire network to cyber risks.
Final Thoughts: Taking Action to Protect Your Business
Cyber threats continue to evolve, making proactive protection essential for all businesses. By implementing the Protect pillar of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, organizations can significantly reduce their exposure to cyber risks. Key takeaways include:
Managing application access through centralized identity systems.
Enforcing strong password policies and enabling Multi-Factor Authentication.
Restricting and encrypting sensitive data.
Deploying advanced endpoint protection to prevent sophisticated attacks.
Securing industrial environments with firewalls and network segmentation.
Investing in these protective measures today can help businesses avoid costly cyber incidents and maintain operational resilience in an increasingly digital world.
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.
Ana Josefina Santana of Lake Wales passed away Friday, February 28, 2025 at her daughters home in Davenport.
She was born August 24, 1931 in Caracas, Venezuela to the late Jose De Jesus and Herminia Santana; she moved to Lake Wales in 2007. Ana was a data entry clerk for American Express . She enjoyed to crochet, knit, listen to music, and cook. Over all else, she loved her family.
Ana was preceded in death by her brothers and sisters. She is survived by her daughter, Anaher Pallares and husband Enrique of Davenport; sons, Andres J. Perez and wife Karen of Lake Wales and Andres R. Perez and wife Yelith of Davenport; and seven grandchildren.
A traffic accident has occurred around 2:23 p.m. on Hwy 60 near Alturas Road in Bartow (close to Winter Haven). The roadway was shut down for about an hour and cars have been rerouted just down the road to Logistics Pkwy in Winter Haven.
The following is a photo of the road blockage as it was unfolding:
Photo credit Tony Grose
*keep in mind regarding the location- Logistics Pkwy is at the very small portion of Hwy 60 that is inside Winter Haven City limits – So, while other areas of that highway are county, the small section at the intersection of logistics parkway is City as the limits extend to a commercial area south of 60 / Logistics Parkway.
As of 3:10 according to PCSO Information Officer Carrie Horstman, the road is back open, but there are still backups. Please drive with caution.
We will update this article as we get confirmation from PCFR on injuries.
