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Wednesday, December 3, 2025

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Orlando Woman Charged With DUI With Serious Bodily Injury After Crash Critically Injuring 2 Young Children In Frostproof Crash

Staff Reporter
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32-year-old Ashauntie Cox (DOB 2/15/1991) of Orlando, who caused serious bodily harm to two children in her vehicle while fleeing from two crashes and driving under the influence, was arrested in Polk County on Friday, May 19, 2023, and charged with several felonies.

According to witnesses and information developed during the investigation, the first crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on US Hwy 27 at the intersection with US Hwy 98 near Frostproof. Cox was driving a blue Kia southbound on Hwy 27 when she struck a grey Chevy Silverado pickup truck and then fled at a high rate of speed. As she continued to recklessly speed south down Hwy 27, weaving in and out of slower moving traffic, she rear-ended a 2016 Honda CRV while trying to pass between that SUV and the vehicle next to it which were both also going southbound. The victim driving the CRV was taken to Sebring Hospital, where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

The collision caused Cox’s vehicle to flip several times, ejecting two Orlando children, ages 5 and 8 years old. Both sustained significant injuries, and they were taken to Tampa General Hospital where they are both in critical condition. A 27-year-old female passenger was also seriously injured along her spinal cord, hip, and back. She remains at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in stable condition.

When deputies arrived at the scene of the crash, they detected the odor of marijuana and located a bottle of tequila in Cox’s vehicle. Cox was transported to the hospital and interview by deputies. Cox told deputies they were driving from Orlando to Avon Park to celebrate the 5-year-old’s kindergarten graduation. She admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day, and to having four shots of tequila. Her blood was drawn for further analysis, and she displayed several signs of impairment. 

She was booked into the Polk County Jail and is being charged with:

·        Three counts DUI with serious bodily injury (F3)

·        Two counts negligent child abuse with great bodily harm (F2)

·        Reckless driving (F3)

·        One count DUI with property damage (M1)

·        One count DUI (M2)

Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigation. 

“This woman had no regard for anyone’s life when she got behind the wheel intoxicated and then drove recklessly down a major highway, but what’s worse is the blatant disregard she had for the lives of the innocent children in her car. I expect a successful prosecution to hold her accountable—and let’s hope she loses her driving privileges if she’s released from jail or prison. Please keep these babies and their families in your prayers.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Lake Wales Man, 20, Killed In Afternoon Shooting; Frostproof Teen Charged With Murder

carl
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Lake Wales Man, 20, Killed In Afternoon Shooting; Frostproof Teen Charged With Murder

Lake Wales Police Press Release

On December 2, 2025, at approximately 1:15 p.m., officers from the Lake Wales Police Department responded to the area of South 9th Street and Columbia Avenue following reports of gunshots. 

Upon arrival, officers located the victim, Jayvyn McFadden, 20, of Lake Wales, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel-initiated lifesaving efforts, and McFadden was transported to a local hospital. Despite these efforts, he was pronounced deceased. 

During the course of the investigation, Miles Edward Brown, 19, of Frostproof, voluntarily turned himself in at the Lake Wales Police Department. Brown was taken into custody and charged with Second Degree Murder and Tampering With Evidence. At this time, investigators are not seeking any other suspects, and there is no risk to the public. 

This remains an active investigation. Anyone with additional information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Lake Wales Police Department at (863) 678-4223 or to remain anonymous by calling Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS (8477).

Small Boxes, Big Dreams: Popular Lake Wales Business Aims to Support Those in Need

Maria Iannucci
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Small Boxes, Big Dreams: Popular Lake Wales Business Aims to Support Those in Need

“I was heading home one day from Taco Riendo, and as I drove through a mobile home community, I saw someone had set out a makeshift bench with signs that read ‘free food and stuff’. I thought about how someone who maybe struggling financially themselves thought of others who maybe in a worse situation through the holidays and set up food outside to give away.”

This was the beginning of two community pantries set up by Jessica Cordova and Margarita Ortiz, co-owners of Taco Riendo.

The popular food truck, based on Hwy. 60 out of the parking lot at Lake Wales Arts Center, is now home to a holiday food pantry. It sits beside the location’s feminine products pantry, which was brought earlier this year by @Polk Period Pantry to the location as a way to help those who maybe struggle to afford period products. 

“Combining the two would be a great way to help others and get our community involved even if it was to help a handful of families in need,” the owners say.

“With this initiative we hope to be able to help along with those in our community who donate to give to those who maybe struggling to make ends meet or who maybe feel shame having to go to food pantry’s in which they maybe have to provide identification or just by having to be seen. In this way we hope that when we are open or close whoever drives by can just stop and help themselves no questions asked. 

“We constantly see many people in need walking by Hwy. 60, to whom we have provided a meal or drink free of charge but we know this doesn’t solve the fact that they still may not have food at home.”

Guests at Taco Riendo who are able to donate are encouraged to drop off items for the pantry.

“We hope this will reach more people in our community who maybe willing to donate or even share the information to get the word out,” Cordova says.

At this time, non-perishable food items, as well as toiletries are most needed for the pantry. Anyone, no matter their financial situation, is welcome to take items as needed.

“Sometimes those who don’t ask are the ones in most need so we hope that this ‘take what you need, leave what you can’ pantry will help anyone and everyone who needs it,”says Cordova.

“We are a small business and we know we can’t financially afford to donate much but we are adding items ourselves as we can. We are thankful for all the support so far it’s only been a few days but the response has been wonderful!”

City’s Annual Christmas Cinema with Santa Coming to Oakley Park Dec. 20

Maria Iannucci
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City’s Annual Christmas Cinema with Santa Coming to Oakley Park Dec. 20

Get ready to jingle all the way!
The City’s Annual Christmas Cinema with Santa event at Oakley Park (next to LW Library) is set for Dec. 20, 2025.

Bring the kids for a fun evening featuring photos with Santa and a screening of the holiday classic “The Santa Klaus”. This free event kicks off at 4 p.m., with the movie starting at dusk.

Enjoy festive fun for the whole family, including a 27-ft Snowman Bounce House, food trucks, train rides, face painting, holiday craft stations, and more! We’re also hosting a Toy Drive, so please bring along any new or gently used toys to help spread holiday cheer.

Note: The movie will be shown outside on an inflatable screen at Oakley Park. Bring chairs, blankets and anything comfortable for seating. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
For all vendor or volunteer inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Frostproof Gears Up for a Festive “Christmas in the Country” Parade December 6

Allison
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Frostproof Gears Up for a Festive “Christmas in the Country” Parade December 6

The City of Frostproof is preparing to welcome the holiday season with its beloved Christmas in the Country Parade, set for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Families, neighbors, and friends are invited to gather along the parade route for an evening filled with lights, music, and holiday cheer.

From classic Christmas themes to unique country charm, parade entrants will help bring the magic of the season to life for the entire community.

Whether you’re joining the parade or cheering from the sidelines, this annual tradition promises a joyful kickoff to the holiday season. Bundle up, bring your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy a night of celebration in true Frostproof style.

Mark your calendars — we can’t wait to see you there!

Flyer courtesy of City of Frostproof

After the parade, head over to the Holly Jolly Christmas Party at Henderson field. For more details on the party, visit https://dailyridge.com/2025/12/01/frostproof-to-host-holly-jolly-christmas-party-after-annual-parade-dec-6/

In Loving Memory of Eloise Farrow Binkley, of Babson Park

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of Eloise Farrow Binkley, of Babson Park

Eloise Farrow Binkley, born on February 16, 1945, in Reedsville, Georgia, passed away on November 21, 2025, at AdventHealth Lake Wales, while under the care of Vitas Hospice.

She was the Grade Manager of Hunt Brothers Citrus. Eloise was a great mother and grandmother, who enriched the lives of her family with love and warmth. Her vibrant personality was complemented by a wide array of interests; Eloise had a passion for playing bingo, visiting casinos, and fishing. She also enjoyed the thrill of NASCAR in her earlier years and relished camping trips, all of which contributed to the joyful memories created during family gatherings. Her love for her family was paramount, and these gatherings served as a cornerstone of her life.

She is survived by her son, Donnie Binkley, Jr. of Babson Park; her brother, Wendell Farrow, and his wife, Debbie, of Lake Wales; and her beloved grandchildren, Levi Guinn, Lacee Bethel, Ciara Binkley, and Justin Binkley. Additionally, she is mourned by many cousins, nieces, and nephews who will forever cherish her memory. Eloise is preceded in death by her husband, Donnie Binkley, Sr., and her daughter, Donna Tucker.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the funeral service at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. Interment will follow at Glen Abbey Memorial Gardens. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

In Loving Memory of Donald Wayne Emmett, of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of Donald Wayne Emmett, of Lake Wales

April 30, 1950 — November 19, 2025

Donald Wayne Emmett, affectionately known as “Don,” passed away on November 19, 2025, at his residence. Born on April 30, 1950, in Tampa, Florida to the late W.C. and Grace Emmett.

Don was a welder for Petersen Industries. Throughout his years, Don embraced his daring spirit, indulging in thrilling pursuits such as skydiving and motorcycle riding, much to the dismay of his family. He spent many cherished mornings attending a coffee group, where he would enjoy the company of friends and engage in lively discussions. Don was an active member of Christ’s Church on the Move in Lake Wales.

Don was a passionate sports enthusiast, proudly supporting teams like the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Tampa Bay Rays. When he was not watching games, he relished the great outdoors, enjoying hunting and fishing—all activities that allowed him to spend quality time with his beloved family, and enjoyed his daily power walks around Lake Wailes Lake.

He leaves behind his loving daughter, Donna Nobles and her husband Alan, of Lake Wales; three grandchildren, Brittany Kennedy Jameson (Hugh), Tyler Nobles (Kelsey), and Dillan Nobles; and two great-grandchildren, Nora Jameson, and Carson Nobles who will remember him fondly for his charisma and adventurous spirit. Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda “Cookie” Emmett; and his daughter, Tammy Kennedy, both of whom he cherished deeply.

A graveside service was held on November 22, 2025, at Lake Wales Cemetery in the mausoleum with Rev. BJ Beamer officiating. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com

In Loving Memory of Jean A. Wright, 87

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of Jean A. Wright, 87

Jean A. Wright, a beloved homemaker and cherished member of her community, was born on November 12, 1938, in Delaplane, Virginia. She passed peacefully on November 15, 2025, at the Life Care Center of Winter Haven.

Throughout her life, Jean dedicated herself to her family, and she found joy in cooking, listening to music, and spending quality time with loved ones. An active member of her church, she touched the hearts of many and left a lasting impact through her kindness and hospitality.

Jean is survived by her daughters, Gloria Chavis and her husband Dale, Pamela Wilcox and her husband Ron, and Audrey Bihorel and her husband Robert, all of Lake Wales. She is also survived by her son, James Fewell and his wife Karen, along with nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren who will remember her with love and fondness.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Jack J. Wright; her grandchild, R.J. Wilcox; two sisters; one brother; and her parents, Louis and Lucy Pearson.

Visitation will be held on November 20, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 PM at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. Interment will be held at Stonewall Memory Gardens in Manassas, Virginia. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

Board Welcomes McKeon and Quam as New Trustees

Staff Reporter
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Board Welcomes McKeon and Quam as New Trustees
Dr T.J. McKeon and Gail Quam

By Anita Todd

LAKE WALES – The Lake Wales Charter School Board of Trustees voted last Tuesday afternoon to fill two vacant seats during its monthly meeting.

In unanimous votes, the Board appointed Dr. T.J. McKeon to Seat 7 and Gail Quam to Seat 8. McKeon, a well-known and respected member of the Lake Wales community, replaced Keith Thompson. He was sworn in during the meeting and took his seat alongside the other board members. McKeon is a chiropractor who practices in Lake Wales. His term expires June 30, 2028.

Thompson never attended a board meeting after his selection because it was discovered shortly afterward that he was ineligible to serve. He resigned because his wife is an employee at Lake Wales High School. According to Florida Statutes 1002.33(26)(c), “prohibits an employee of a charter school, or their spouse, from serving on the governing board of that charter school. This provision ensures that charter school employees or their family members do not hold a position of authority on the board overseeing the school.” Seats 3, 5, and 7 are considered “board seats,” with trustees selected through a nomination process followed by final approval from the Board.

Quam, a longtime educator and former principal at Polk Avenue Elementary School, was elected to fill Seat 8. This seat became vacant at the same time as Seat 7 when Rafael Unzueta, the then-newly selected Board Chair, resigned after because his wife is an employee within the LWCS system.

Quam was one of three nominees for the position. The others, also nominated by board members, were Sarah Jones and Skip Alford.

During the Work Session prior to the official meeting, Jaime Winfree, Seat 1 trustee and teacher representative, spoke in support of Quam.

“If we are looking for somebody who has knowledge of what it’s like to be an administrator and a teacher in this system who understands school budgets and charter policy, I cannot image a better candidate. I don’t know the other two candidates so it’s not personal. It’s just if we’re running a school board, a career educator seems like a good fit.”

Seats 4, 6, and 8 are designated as SAC/PTA seats and are nominated by a committee that includes only one Board member. Quam was not at the meeting. Her term expires June 30, 2026.

The next LWCS Board of Trustee meeting will be held Jan. 20, 2026 at the Lake Wales High School.

Lake Wales History Museum Bring All Aboard for Learning

Maria Iannucci
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Lake Wales History Museum Bring All Aboard for Learning

Recently, Lake Wales History Museum had a wonderful visit from Park Avenue Private School in Lake Wales.!Their elementary students had a great time exploring the fully open museum, climbing aboard the historic train, and discovering fascinating artifacts in the Collections Center. Students were curious and excited with the opportunity to about Lake Wales’ rich history.

The Museum welcomes field trips and group visits for students, and adults, of all ages. If your class, club, or organization would like to schedule a guided or self-guided tour, reach out to the Lake Wales History Museum at [email protected] to plan your visit.

Annexation of 10+ Acres at 30 Watts Ranch Approved by Lake Wales City Commission 

Maria Iannucci
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Annexation of 10+ Acres at 30 Watts Ranch Approved by Lake Wales City Commission 

by James Coulter 

More than 10 acres of land south of Grove Avenue East and west of Hamlin Street have been annexed into the city with zoning and future land use designation changes. 

At their regular meeting on Tues. Nov. 18, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously on the second reading of three ordinances regarding 10 acres of land located at 30 Watts Ranch. 

The ordinances annexed the land into the city and changed its zoning and future land use designation to City Single-Family Residential (R-1D) to City Medium Density Residential (MDR). 

The subject property currently consists of vacant groves and is “surrounded by existing single-family homes north of Grove Avenue, and the platted subdivision known as Groves at Hunt Club to the west, south, and east,” wrote Autumn Cochella, Director of Growth Management. 

The property owners do not have any immediate plans for development.

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