I love curry. I love how the blend of sweet and spicy makes Indian food so flavorful. And I love being able to make my food extra spicy by adding hot peppers to the mix.
The only thing I love more than curry is my slow cooker. All you have to do is dump all your ingredients in the pot, turn it on, and let it cook through the day for a delicious meal come dinner time. So, of course, I love being able to prepare my curry dishes with my slow cooker.
And making the entire experience more convenient are curry sauces sold premade in jars. It certainly saves me time measuring and adding all of the different spices. All I have to do is dump the sauce in with my meat and veggies, and I have a scrumptious curry dinner by the end of the day.
I recently purchased my first curry simmer sauce and used it to make chicken tikka masala. The sauce was extra spicy, just the way I love it! The recipe is easy enough: just add the sauce to a pound of chicken and cook.
However, like with all good recipes, it can always be improved with modifications. So, I also added diced onion, fire-roasted tomatoes, and green chilies for added spice. The result was a spicy helping of curry served with white rice and naan bread.
With how easy this recipe is, I certainly expect to prepare it for future meals. Maybe next time I’ll add jalapeno or even poblano and habanero peppers. The spicier, the better.
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Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Ingredients
1 lb. chicken thigh or breast
1 tbsp. minced garlic
1 15. oz. jar curry sauce (like Patak’s Taste of India)
1 diced onion
1 10 oz. can diced tomatoes (fire roasted for added heat)
1 7 oz. can green chilies or jalapenos (optional for added heat)
Directions
1. Cut chicken into bite-sized portions.
2. In a large frying pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
3. Add the chicken and cook until the meat turns white.
4. Add contents to slow cooker along with sauce, diced tomatoes, and peppers.
5. Cook on high for six hours, or low for eight hours, or until chicken has been cooked thoroughly.
After receiving their own automated external defibrillator (AED) for their facility, the Wauchula Moose Lodge raised enough money to “pay it forward” and sponsor an AED donation for the Arcadia Moose Lodge.
On Mon. Mar. 10, Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF) placed its 61st AED at the Arcadia Moose Lodge #1327/#1597. The AED was donated in large part to Wauchula Moose Lodge #1487.
The Wauchula Moose Lodge received their own AED last month from CCF. Inspired by the donation, the Lodge decided to raise the proceeds to “pay it forward” by sponsoring an AED donation for the Arcadia Moose Lodge.
“It is an amazing feeling that the Wauchula Moose Lodge paid it forward,” said April White, a member of the Arcadia Moose Lodge. “I hope our lodge pays it forward.”
April White started working at the Lodge four years ago. She started working in the kitchen, then as a bartender, and now as the social quarters and kitchen manager.
She was especially impressed by the presentation by Eric Shimkus, who demonstrated how to use the AED and perform CPR in case of an emergency.
“The demonstration was amazing,” she said. “This learning experience was amazing for myself and my bartenders, as we have discussed the learning experience that we got and what we learned [from it].”
That evening, CCF founder Melanie Brown Culpepper also highlighted the importance of keeping fire extinguishers in vehicles, noting an incident in Nov. where a young girl Jolynn lost her life in a car accident.
“All of these I added to our demonstration in the hope to share the importance of Saving Lives,” Melanie wrote on Facebook. “Thank you everyone and our community so very much as without our community support, we could not make this all happen.”
Melanie started CCF more than four years ago following the untimely passing of her late fiancée Michael Culpepper, who passed away from cardiac arrest.
Not wanting anyone else to suffer a similar fate, she started her non-profit to raise proceeds to donate AEDs across Polk County. Since its inception, it has donated more than 60 AEDs.
To learn more, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/honoringculpepper
In today’s evolving cyber threat landscape, organizations must be prepared to swiftly and effectively respond to security incidents. The “Respond” function of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) focuses on developing and implementing appropriate actions when a cybersecurity event is detected. This phase ensures that organizations can mitigate the impact of an incident and recover with minimal disruption.
Understanding the Respond Function
The Respond function is essential in reducing the impact of cyber incidents by providing structured response measures. This function is broken down into five key categories:
Response Planning – Organizations should establish and maintain response processes and procedures that are regularly tested and updated to handle incidents effectively.
Communications – Proper communication strategies must be in place to notify stakeholders, law enforcement, and the public when necessary.
Analysis – Affected organizations should conduct a thorough assessment of the incident to determine its scope, impact, and potential attack vectors.
Mitigation – Steps should be taken to contain the incident and prevent its spread, ensuring that security controls are reinforced.
Improvements – After resolving an incident, organizations should review their response efforts and update their security policies to prevent similar occurrences.
Importance of an Effective Response Plan
Having a well-defined response plan is critical for organizations to minimize downtime, limit financial losses, and protect their reputation. An effective incident response plan includes:
Clearly defined roles and responsibilities for cybersecurity teams.
Automated response mechanisms to quickly isolate threats.
Coordination with external partners like forensic investigators and legal teams.
Regular training and tabletop exercises to ensure readiness.
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Leveraging Security Tools for Incident Response
Organizations should integrate automated security tools to accelerate detection and response processes. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), and Artificial Intelligence-based threat intelligence can enhance real-time incident handling. Solutions like PC Matic Pro can support these efforts by ensuring that applications and processes are secured, helping businesses mitigate and contain cyber threats efficiently.
Conclusion
The NIST CSF Respond function is crucial in an organization’s cybersecurity strategy. By implementing robust response strategies, companies can reduce the impact of cyber incidents and strengthen their overall security posture. Proactive planning, communication, and continuous improvements ensure organizations are resilient in the face of emerging threats.
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.
HAINES CITY – Haines City Mayor Omar Arroyo kicked off his campaign for the County Commission District 4seat on Saturday (March 15) at City Hall.
More than 75 supporters gathered with Arroyo, the first Hispanic Mayor of Haines City and Polk County, for a group photo.
He said he loves the area and hopes his expertise will help with what he sees as the county’s biggest challenge – the enormous population growth.
“I’ve been preparing for the last four years (for the job) by being on different boards and learning about the challenges that the county is facing,” Arroyo said. “I have a passion for helping the community and want to continue the good works of Dr. (Martha) Santiago.”
If elected, he will replace Santiago, who personally asked Arroyo to run for the seat as she plans to retire.
Born in Mexico, Arroyo moved to Austin, Texas at 16where he began his career in residential framing. Two years later, in 2001, he moved to Haines City and is now a general contractor. He believes his constructionexperience will be an asset to the County Commission.
In 2022, Arroyo was elected to the Haines City Commission, making him the first Hispanic commissioner in the City’s history. Then, last year, he was unanimously elected by his fellow Commissioners to become Mayor, also the first Hispanic in the history of the City.
According to polkelections.com, currently, Arroyo is the only candidate registered to run for County Commission District 4 seat. The election will be held Nov. 3, 2026.
He and his wife of 20 years, Alejandra, have three children.
*Editors Note: I’ve personally known both Dedric Brinson and Freddie Brinson for a long time. Prior to them, even realizing it I used to referee their youth football games. I would say I’ve known Freddie more than Dedric, but I found both these young men to never be aggressive or belligerent (Dedric, lately has a podcast where he does get very emotional, but he is producing content). However, some serious allegations have been levied against both of them. I cannot condone any illegal behavior, which may or may not have occurred. The starting issue was an issue involving Freddie’s son we believe and a school guardian. As a father of three children I can get very emotional in defending them. I hate that this has occurred for these two young men and will be in prayer for this to be resolved in the best possible manner. – Carl
Winter Haven, FL – A social media influencer, Dedric Brinson, was arrested on March 13, 2025, following a series of alleged disruptive incidents at Garden Grove Elementary School that culminated in a standoff with law enforcement at his residence.
The situation reportedly began earlier in the day when Dedric Brinson’s brother, Frederick Brinson, was involved in a verbal altercation with a school guardian during a school event. The District Supervising Guardian, Aaron Wilson, intervened to de-escalate the situation and called law enforcement, who escorted Frederick Brinson off campus.
Approximately 30 minutes later, Dedric Brinson arrived at the school’s front office and requested access to the school’s WiFi. When informed that it was for students and staff only, Brinson allegedly refused to leave the premises despite multiple requests from school staff and Guardian Wilson. Witnesses reported that Brinson’s behavior became increasingly erratic, causing concern among school employees. Wilson repeatedly instructed him to leave, but Brinson refused, stating that he was waiting for law enforcement.
Wilson continued to direct Brinson off campus, eventually walking him to his vehicle, where he left just before officers arrived.
Later that day, Brinson engaged in a Facebook Live session in which he allegedly played a recorded phone conversation with Wilson’s son, who was unaware he was being recorded. The conversation was broadcast without consent, violating Florida law regarding unauthorized recording and distribution of private communications.
Law enforcement responded to Brinson’s residence while he was live-streaming. When deputies ordered him to exit, Brinson instead slammed the door and continued his broadcast. Officers informed him through a window that he was under arrest, but he refused to comply, acknowledging the potential additional charges but allegedly stating he did not care.
Following an investigation, authorities determined that Brinson committed multiple violations, including:
• Trespassing on School Grounds After Warning (FSS 810.097(2)) – By remaining on school property without legitimate business after being directed to leave.
• Illegal Interception and Distribution of Communication (FSS 934.03 (1)(D)) – By recording and broadcasting a private phone call without consent.
• Resisting an Officer Without Violence (FSS 843.02) – By refusing to comply with law enforcement’s orders to surrender.
Brinson was taken into custody and now faces multiple charges, including a third-degree felony for the unauthorized recording. His actions, both at the school and online, have drawn significant attention, raising concerns over privacy violations and the misuse of social media platforms to escalate conflicts.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, emphasizing the importance of respecting school security measures and lawful orders from law enforcement.
We currently don’t have a current comment from Dedric, but we imagine he will post on his facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BxszRVmmL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
If you were to ask ChatGPT to write a script for a new Captain America movie, and you asked it to have the film star Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America, as well as to incorporate Isaiah Bradley, the Celestial, the Red Hulk, and Sabra (without ever mentioning she’s Sabra because…reasons!), you would most likely have a script resembling that of Captain America: Brave New World.
The new movie is that big of a mess–and considering the film received endless reshoots, a shuffling around of release dates, and a scathing article in Vulture detailing its chaotic production (where one of the crew members literally stated, “I think everyone on the crew knew this is probably not going to be a good film”), expecting anything less would have been wishful thinking.
Captain America: Brave New World follows Sam Wilson (played by Anthony Mackie) assuming his role as the new Captain America. As a government agent, he now works under the new president Thaddeus Ross, who has proven controversial considering his history.
However, following an assassination attempt by Isaiah Bradley (a former soldier who had been experimented on to create the original super serum for Captain America), Sam is forced to investigate and uncover the real culprit. Will he find out who’s really responsible? And will the Red Hulk factor into it? (Considering he was featured in the trailers, that answer’s obvious.)
I’m not even going to bother with a rhetorical question asking whether or not this movie will be hypothetically good. Because it isn’t! This may not be the worst Marvel movie ever (because Iron Man 2 and The Incredible Hulk win that dishonor with a tie), but it is hands down the worst Captain America movie.
I’m not kidding when I say this movie feels like it was written by AI. It looks like a Marvel movie. It even feels like a Marvel movie. But something about the story feels hollow, almost as if it was written by a computer borrowing heavily from previous Marvel movies and shows. And watching it certainly leaves you feeling hollow.
And is it a spoiler to mention that the entire “mystery” involves the Red Hulk? Especially since Marvel already spoiled that “twist” in their trailers? Because the whole time, I was sitting in my seat waiting for the moment the Red Hulk finally appeared (because I knew he was going to be in the movie), and then when he did appear, the result felt underwhelming, leaving one to ask, “Wait, that’s it?”
Anthony Mackie does an excellent job reprising his role as Sam, who is now assuming his role acting as the new Captain America. And Harrison Ford as Thaddeus Ross…well, Harrison Ford is great in everything he appears in. Because he’s Harrison Ford.
However, the rest of the cast feels undercooked. This movie introduces Shira Haas as Sabra, an Israeli superhero who’s never mentioned in the film to be an Israeli superhero because…current events! The result is that her character doesn’t leave much of a lasting impression.
Oh, and there’s also Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres, who assumes the role of the new Falcon. He exists. Seriously, I had forgotten he was even a character in this movie, he was that forgettable. In fact, he’s so irrelevant to the overall plot that he’s written out halfway through following a serious injury in the film.
But perhaps the worst aspect of the film is how “apolitical” it feels, especially considering it’s a Captain America movie. Captain America, as a hero, embodies the heroic ideals of the American spirit. As such, his movies usually have something to say about America.
In contrast, this movie has nothing to say at all. The movie almost has something to say with the president being a literal monster, but considering that whole plot point feels almost incidental, rendering the metaphor toothless.
I recently stumbled across a thread by someone on BlueSky who put it best:
“[The movie] is such a rejection of who Cap should be as an inspirational character, someone who always took a stand, always tried to do what was right, no matter the thumps or how unpopular it may have been…
A Cap story HAS to stand for something, HAS to have meaning, or it, it’s intrinsic to the character as a greater symbol. Otherwise, you run the risk of becoming the meaning, in this case, a weak, mealy-mouthed sequel.”
With that said, as underwhelming as this whole movie felt, I’m not too enthused about The Thunderbolts, and I’m crossing my fingers that Fantastic Four proves to be the better film.
Not only was the Lake Wales Moose Lodge able to raise enough money to donate an automated external defibrillator (AED) to the Haines City/Davenport Moose Lodge, but also to donate another AED at another location.
On. Thur. Feb. 27, Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF) placed its 60th AED at the Haines City/Davenport Moose. The AED has been purchased by the Lake Wales Moose Lodge, which has raised the money through a fundraiser hosted in January.
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Duane Anderson, Administrator for the Lake Wales Lodge, and a member since 2016, appreciates how the CCF gives back to the community by providing essential life-saving devices. As such, he and his organization wanted to do their part to help.
“It feels great to do the things we do for our community,” Anderson said. “The CCF is putting these [AEDs] everywhere to save lives… [and] we [would] like to help achieve [their] goals.”
Annie Chisnell commended the CCF’s founder, Melanie Brown Culpepper, for her commitment to assisting her community through her organization. Likewise, she was all proud to help the lodge donate an AED to another lodge.
“[I feel] proud & fortunate to be a part of this,” Chisnell said. “I congratulate Melanie on her dedication and drive.”
Melanie started CCF more than four years ago following the untimely passing of her late fiancée, Michael Culpepper, who had passed away from cardiac arrest. Not wanting anyone else to suffer a similar fate, Melanie started her non-profit to help raise proceeds to donate and install AEDs across Polk County.
Since its inception, CCF has donated more than 60 AEDs in businesses, restaurants, and other establishments including Tanner’s Lakeside, Caribbean Bay, and Old Man Frank’s. Recently, her organization installed another AED at the Arcadia Moose Lodge.
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“Thank you everyone and our community so very much, as without our community support, we could not make this all happen,” Melanie wrote in a Facebook post. “We all may be the closest first responder. It could be your own family or even you you’re saving.”
To learn more about CCF, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/honoringculpepper
Polk County, Florida, is buzzing with activities this weekend, offering residents and visitors a variety of events to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, community involvement, or family-friendly entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of some must-attend events happening on March 15-16, 2025.
Biodiversity Bingo Buggy Tour
Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: The Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve, Babson Park, FL Take a guided buggy tour through the stunning Tiger Creek Preserve and participate in an interactive game of biodiversity bingo. This event is perfect for nature lovers who want to learn more about Florida’s diverse ecosystem.
Community Litter Clean-Up
Date & Time: Saturday, March 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Location: Lake Wales Family Recreation Center, Lake Wales, FL Join fellow community members in beautifying the city by participating in a local litter clean-up. Supplies will be provided, and volunteers of all ages are encouraged to help keep Polk County clean and green.
International Market World
Date & Time: Friday to Sunday, March 14-16, 2025, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Location: 1052 US-92, Auburndale, FL Explore one of Central Florida’s largest flea markets, featuring over 1,200 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to antiques. Enjoy live entertainment, including alligator shows and music performances.
Polk Senior Games
Date: Ongoing through March 16, 2025 Location: Various venues across Polk County The Polk Senior Games feature a range of athletic and recreational competitions, offering seniors the opportunity to stay active and engaged in a fun and supportive environment.
Forever Elvis ‘73
Date & Time: Sunday, March 16, 2025, 7:00 PM Location: Polk Theatre, Lakeland, FL Experience an unforgettable tribute to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll as five-time World Champion Elvis Presley Tribute Artist Dwight Icenhower brings the 50s, 60s, and 70s eras of Elvis to life. This performance promises to be a must-see for Elvis fans and music lovers alike. Visit polktheatre.org for tickets and more information.
Detroit Tigers Spring Training Games
Date & Time:
Saturday, March 15, 2025, 1:05 PM
Opponent: Philadelphia Phillies
Location: BayCare Ballpark, Clearwater, FL
Sunday, March 16, 2025, 1:05 PM
Opponent: Baltimore Orioles
Location: Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland, FL
Baseball fans can catch the Detroit Tigers in action during their Spring Training games this weekend. On Saturday, they face the Philadelphia Phillies in Clearwater. On Sunday, they return home to Lakeland to play against the Baltimore Orioles. For ticket information and the complete Spring Training schedule, visit the official Detroit Tigers Spring Training page.
With a variety of activities happening this weekend, Polk County promises an exciting time for all. Be sure to check event details and any registration requirements before attending. Enjoy your weekend!
At 10:22 a.m. on Wednesday March 12, Curtis Gibson, a local political candidate, attempted to contact Daily Ridge regarding concerns over campaign advertising rates. Due to a prior engagement, a Daily Ridge representative responded via text, indicating a callback would follow. At 11:00 a.m., the call was returned, lasting approximately 18 minutes.
During the conversation, Gibson alleged that Daily Ridge provided his campaign team with a different political rate sheet than the one sent to the Hilligoss Campaign. Additionally, he claimed that Daily Ridge began promoting the Hilligoss campaign prior to receiving payment. In response, Daily Ridge reaffirmed its commitment to treating all candidates fairly, emphasizing that all campaign teams received the same rate sheet and advertising opportunities.
LWD 2025 Campaign Rate Sheet
To clarify, Daily Ridge advised Gibson that digital records validate that both the Gibson and Hilligoss campaigns received the same rate sheet within hours of each other. The Hilligoss team opted for the “Victory Package” on February 14 and requested a prorated rate due to the election timeline. In response, the rate was reduced from $1,200 to $1,000. An invoice was sent, promptly paid, and the campaign’s advertisement was displayed on the website on February 16.
Hilligoss Invoice
Gibson contested this, stating that records he obtained showed the Hilligoss campaign only paid $100. Daily Ridge refuted this, explaining that the invoice was for $1,000 and paid in full, suggesting that a clerical error might have occurred in the reported expenditure. When Gibson continued to challenge the accuracy of this information, he was advised that any further disputes would need to be handled through legal channels. Daily Ridge stressed that it had provided the truth and supporting evidence, yet Gibson continued to push false claims and double down on serious legal accusations.
Hilligoss Campaign Treasurer Report published by Gibson Team
Additionally, it was noted that Gibson’s campaign committed to a $600 advertising package on February 19, for which an invoice was sent. However, no payment or signed contract was received from his team. The invoice was ultimately withdrawn on March 3 due to non-payment. Gibson stated he would pay if he received the same $100 rate as Hilligoss, which was again refuted as misinformation.
Gibson Invoice
Another point of contention arose when Gibson requested a podcast interview, citing fairness. It was explained that the interview was part of the Victory Package that Hilligoss purchased, and similar opportunities were available to any campaign that opted for the package. Paid Political Ad Podcast can be found here: Chattin on the Ridge
Later in the day, at approximately 6:47 p.m., a Daily Ridge reader alerted the company to a social media post by Danielle Pride, a member of Gibson’s political team. Pride questioned the discrepancy in advertising costs, implying potential price gouging. This post came hours after the conversation where Daily Ridge believed concerns had been addressed.
At 7:18 p.m., Pride followed up with another post, suggesting that either a lie or clerical error had occurred regarding campaign expenditures. These public statements, along with comments from the community, raised concerns at Daily Ridge regarding potential damage to its reputation and business relationships.
Daily Ridge remains committed to transparency and fair treatment of all political candidates. The company urges any party with concerns to seek direct clarification rather than fueling public speculation that could harm its standing in the community.
Follow-up: The Hilligoss Campaign team contacted Daily Ridge on March 13,Thursday morning, confirming that the discrepancy in their campaign expenditure report was indeed a clerical error on their side. The Hilligoss team has already submitted an amended report to the city clerk and has apologized for the mistake.
“In 2025, Bartow anticipates the completion of several capital improvement projects, including the new fire substation, public works facilities and parks facility improvements,” said Mike Herr. Herr became city manager of the county seat of Polk in January 2023. He had previously served as county manager and city manager of Winter Haven. “The city also plans to implement a fine-free library and acquire new equipment for parks and recreation.”
It’s also excited about two other things coming up in 2025:
The multi-jurisdictional transportation corridor, which aims to enhance transportation and connectivity within the city.
The updating of the comprehensive plan for the City of Bartow. The plan “describes the city’s vision; translates that vision into policies, programs and public investments; and promotes technical coordination between specialists to ensure the rational and efficient scheduling of physical improvements,” according to the city’s website. It was last updated in 2020, which takes it through 2030. According to Florida law, every city must have such a plan, and it must be updated at least once every seven years.
City of Bartow Goals for 2025
The City of Bartow‘s goals for 2025 include maintaining and enhancing infrastructure, creating cleaner and safer neighborhoods, maximizing the use of technology and becoming an employer of choice, Herr said.
The city also aims to collaborate with key partners to spur community vitality and invest in non-profit organizations to improve the social condition for all citizens.
“We are committed to intentional development that benefits all residents of Bartow,” he said. “Our focus is on creating a sustainable and thriving community through strategic planning and collaboration with key partners.”
Challenges
As in other cities, one of Bartow’s main challenges is managing the rising demand for housing and ensuring affordability.
“To tackle these challenges, Bartow is implementing updated impact fees and enterprise fund rates to support infrastructure improvements,” Herr said. “The city is also seeking public-private partnerships to address housing affordability, developing relationships with landowners and streamlining the permitting process to make the development process more aligned.”
Since then, the BEDC has attracted Assure Infusions, a leading manufacturer of intravenous bags and medical infusion devices. Assure built its 60,000-square-foot manufacturing facility – which was designed by The Lunz Group and built by SpringerVoss Construction. They chose Bartow in part because of the city’s strategic location, including its access to major transportation routes for efficient distribution. Elle Withall, President of the BEDC, agreed that working together brings results.
Withall said Assure Infusions’ presence “strengthens Bartow’s manufacturing sector, expanding beyond traditional industries. The Assure Infusions facility represents a multimillion-dollar investment and has created over 150 high-quality jobs in the community, strengthening Bartow’s position in the healthcare manufacturing sector.”
Bartow has also welcomed Skimlite Manufacturing, a producer of professional-grade pool cleaning equipment.
“This addition underscores the city’s commitment to diversifying its industrial base and supporting innovative manufacturers,” Withall said. It also has:
Created more than 60 jobs in manufacturing, engineering and administrative roles.
Given local suppliers and service providers increased business opportunities.
In addition, Skimlite gives back to the community by:
Collaborating with local schools and colleges to offer internships and training programs, fostering talent development.
Participating in community events and supporting local charities.
Addressing Blight
The city and BEDC are continuing to work together to attract business and industry – and more, Herr said.
“Our partnership with the BEDC and the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together,” he said. “By addressing areas of blight and promoting best-use recruitment efforts, we are fostering economic development and improving the quality of life for our residents.”
The city is committed to cleaning up the community, making it its No. 1 priority. Its initiative includes:
“Organizing regular community clean-up events to remove litter, debris and overgrown vegetation, and encouraging resident participation to foster community pride and ownership of public spaces,” Herr said.
Strengthening code enforcement, including “enhancing enforcement of property maintenance codes to ensure landlords and property owners maintain their buildings. and addressing abandoned or neglected properties that contribute to blight,” he said.
Investing in parks, sidewalks and public facilities to improve aesthetics and usability.
Grant Programs
In addition, the BEDC and CRA Partnership on Grant Programs are working to improve facades or make structural enhancements of buildings. They are doing that through:
Facade Improvement Grants. These provide businesses and property owners with financial assistance to renovate exteriors, improve signs, replace windows and lighting, and apply fresh paint. The goal, Withall said, is to “revitalize commercial corridors, attract customers and stimulate economic activity.”
Structural Improvement Grants. These offer “funds for significant structural repairs to ensure buildings are safe and up to code and preserve historic structures by aiding in costly restoration efforts.” The goal is to “prevent deterioration that leads to blight and promote the longevity of important community assets,” she said.
The agencies also provide guidance and assistance to those who would like to apply for the grants.
“Our focus is on recruiting development and business, working in conjunction as a team with the city to think outside of the box for new development deals that are proving to be fruitful,” Withall said. “By leveraging our collaborative efforts, we aim to bring innovative and sustainable growth to Bartow.”
