RED BEANS AND RICE

Name: RED BEANS AND RICE
Ingredients: 1 pound dried, light red kidney beans; 4 quarts water, divided; 2 large yellow onions, chopped; 2 ribs celery with leaves, chopped; 1 large green bell pepper, chopped; 2 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 1/4 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 bay leaves; 1 lb. andouille sausage; salt and pepper to taste; 6 servings hot cooked rice; garnishes: grated cheddar cheese and chopped green onions