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JOANN Fabric Store Closing ALL Locations

Staff Reporter
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JOANN Fabric Store Closing ALL Locations

UPDATE

April 25, 2025

Another day, another sale!

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UPDATE

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.”

LWCS Board of Trustees Takes First Step in Superintendent Search

Carl Fish
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LWCS Board of Trustees Takes First Step in Superintendent Search

BY ANITA TODD, Special Articles

* Editor’s Note: Daily Ridge will post the members of the Superintendent Search Committee as soon as they are made public.

LAKE WALES – The Lake Wales Charter School Board of Trustees held a scheduled meeting on Feb. 24 at Lake Wales High School.

During the Work Session, Dr. Lynn Johnson, Chair of the Superintendent Search Committee, announced the process of finding a new leader for the System. Johnson hand-selected a group of seven to comprise the Selection Committee members. The members include Johnson; a current elementary school principal; a current middle or high school principal; two teacher representatives; a parent representative; and a community representative. LaQuanda Burroughs, LWCS Human Resources Director, will oversee the process under the Sunshine Law.

According to Johnson’s timeline, the committee will meet for the first time in the week of March 3. She said she would train the group on being objective during the evaluation process and how to use the scoring method. The scoring method and blind reviews will be used to prevent bias, she said. 

“We have to assess people based on merit. We have toassess people based on qualifications. We have to assess people based on experience,” Johnsons said. 

The job listing will be posted by March 17 for 15 days. 

After the “weeding out” process – a period when the committee scores each candidate based on their submitted credentials without any identifying information – the group will come together to recommend the top 10 candidates to the Board. Those 10 will then be interviewed by the Board of Trustees – by the Board as a group and one-on-one -which should be completed by the week of April 28. 

The Board of Trustees will then recommend the top five and then the top three with a final decision by May 19. 

“Hopefully, the offering (to the Superintendent for the position) could happen before the end of the school year,” Johnson said. “I hope that you trust that I can lead this process in a way that can get us the best person that will truly lead this system.”

The proposed committee members will receive an email from Dr. Johnson today (Feb.25). Once their acceptance is given, the members’ names will be made public. 

Dr. Johnson was selected by Danny Gill, Chair of the Board of Trustees, to act as the Chair of the Superintendent Selection Committee. He also asked her to recommend how the process will be conducted. 

However, at least two Trustees questioned the decision of her choosing the selection committee entirely on her own. 

“I’d like to have some input on that – just to submit some names,” said Andy Blair, Trustee.

Dr. Johnson explained why she alone chose the committee members.

“There are concerns that people on the board would want people on the committee who they want on the committee to help sway the process,” Dr. Johnson said. 

Brian Marbutt, Trustee, disagreed.

“I have the exact opposite concern. We have one board member picking the committee and the rest of the board has no say,” Marbutt said. “I would prefer to have a representative on the committee for each board member …. Versus having one board member pick the committee. One vote cannot sway the entire committee. If it’s all Sunshine then you know there should be no issues there from that standpoint. I stand with Andy on possibly figuring out a little different makeup of the committee.” 

However, neither Blair nor Marbutt’s objections were addressed by the Board. 

The next Board meeting will be held March 10.

UPDATE: Theft of swans in Polk County

Staff Reporter
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UPDATE: Theft of swans in Polk County

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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/

Cooking on the Ridge: Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo

Staff Reporter
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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

Staff Reporter
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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

Importance of Local Elections in Lake Wales

Staff Reporter
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Importance of Local Elections in Lake Wales

Participating in local mayoral elections is a crucial civic duty that directly impacts the quality of life in our communities. Mayors, as the chief executives of cities, oversee daily operations, implement policies, and represent the city’s interests. Their decisions influence essential services such as public safety, education, housing, and transportation. By voting, residents ensure their voices are heard in selecting leaders who will make decisions that reflect the needs and aspirations of the entire community.

Despite the significant impact of local governance, voter turnout in municipal elections often remains low. Low participation can result in a lack of representation and accountability. Every vote carries substantial weight in local elections, where outcomes can be decided by a narrow margin. Engaging in the electoral process empowers citizens to hold elected officials accountable and fosters a government that reflects diverse perspectives and priorities.

The 2022 Lake Wales mayoral election serves as a reminder of the importance of voter turnout. In this election, only 2,587 ballots were cast out of 9,827 registered voters, resulting in a voter turnout of just 26.33%. The results were closely contested, highlighting the power of each vote in shaping the city’s future. As Lake Wales continues to grow, residents have an opportunity to influence decisions that impact their daily lives by engaging in the democratic process. Voting in local elections is essential for ensuring that municipal leadership reflects the community’s collective interests and works toward a prosperous and sustainable future for all.

2022 Official Lake Wales Mayoral Voting Results

Lake Wales is currently experiencing significant growth from both residential and business perspectives. The city has approved the annexation of 558 acres for the Lake Wales Commons Development, a mixed-use project that will feature 3,200 residential units along with retail and industrial space. This development is expected to bring a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and townhomes, along with commercial and light industrial spaces, contributing to the city’s economic development strategy.

Proposed developments and growth in Lake Wales

Additionally, the city is seeing a surge in new businesses and economic activities. The Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council is actively promoting a strong business climate while supporting the community’s quality of life. New developments and business initiatives are expected to provide greater opportunities for residents and attract more investments to the area.

In 2023, Advanced Drainage Systems, one of the nation’s leading providers of innovative water management solutions, announced it would build a new, state-of-the-art pipe manufacturing facility in Lake Wales

However, this rapid growth comes with challenges. Traffic congestion is increasing, making daily commutes more time-consuming. Schools are at or over capacity, straining resources and affecting the quality of education. Furthermore, the city faces potential water supply challenges as it seeks sustainable solutions to meet the growing demand. Addressing these issues requires thoughtful leadership and active civic participation to ensure that the community’s needs are met in a balanced and responsible manner.

In conclusion, voting in local mayoral elections is essential for ensuring that municipal leadership reflects the community’s collective aspirations. Through this engagement, residents can effect meaningful change and promote a thriving, well-governed city. The ongoing growth in Lake Wales highlights the importance of active civic participation to shape the future of the community.

To make a difference, residents can:

  1. Register to vote: Ensure you are registered and encourage others to do the same.
  2. Stay informed: Follow local news like Lake Wales Daily or The Daily Ridge, attend city hall meetings, and participate in community discussions to stay updated on the issues and candidates.
  3. Volunteer: Join a campaign, help at polling stations, or assist with voter registration drives.
  4. Vote early: Take advantage of early voting options to avoid long lines on election day.
  5. Encourage others: Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about the importance of voting and help them get to the polls.

By taking these steps, residents can actively contribute to the democratic process and ensure their voices are heard in shaping the future of Lake Wales.

Sources: Water Challenges Facing Lake Wales, Traffic, Area Growth, Business Development, Lake Wales 2022 Election Results

Understanding Cybersecurity Risks and the NIST Framework: Identify

Staff Reporter
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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.

Green & Gold Foundation Presents HHM Education & Leadership Series Feb. 25

Staff Reporter
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Green & Gold Foundation Presents HHM Education & Leadership Series Feb. 25

The Green & Gold Foundation presents HHM Education & Leadership Series on February 25, 2025 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.at the B Street Community Center, 230 B Street, Lake Wales.

Mr. Keron Thompson, Black Business Investment Fund, will be the special guest speaker for the evening.

Light refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Mr. Rodney Rackley at 407-832-7689.

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