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

Frostproof

Staff Reporter

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May 22, 2023

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

How Eating Together Can Benefit Your Family

Family
Food

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July 28, 2025

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How Eating Together Can Benefit Your Family

Sharing a meal offers far more than a full stomach; the benefits of eating together extend well beyond the dinner table.

In the “2025 World Happiness Report,” evidence shows that sharing meals has a substantial impact on an individual’s well-being. Those who regularly eat with others report higher life satisfaction and display higher levels of social support, positive reciprocity and less loneliness.

As Lake Wales, Frostproof, and Babson Park families are preparing to begin a new school year, its a great time to consider what can likely be your greatest allotted time together and how it can best be used in addition to filling hungry stomachs.

There are many benefits that families can garner and improve overall well-being by sharing meals together.

Civil and Respectful Interactions

In a world full of distractions, it may come as no surprise that poor communication is a concern among parents, more worrisome than schoolwork or chores.

Family meals are a great time to have and teach respectful interactions. Frequent family meals create a safe environment for families to discuss thornier societal issues.

Better Nutrition

Numerous studies have shown families who eat more meals together have healthier eating habits and better diets in general. Family meals at home typically make it easier to fill plates with food from each food group. What’s more, parents who prepare well-balanced meals and model healthy food choices allow children to mirror and adopt similar habits.

Improved Family Function

Having more time to spend together and family meals are two ways they feel more connected to family and loved ones. With busy school and extracurricular schedules, many families are hard-pressed to find quality time together without distractions. Gathering around the dinner table is an opportunity to connect with one another and talk about what’s happening at work, school and with friends.

Better Grades at School

Numerous factors affect students’ academic performance, but eating together as a family can help reinforce many of the variables thought to influence student success. More nutritious meals play a role in stronger cognitive function. Multiple researchers found that children who are part of families that eat together regularly tend to have a stronger vocabulary and higher grades.

Improved Mental Health

Another way family meals benefit students at school and beyond is stronger mental and emotional health. In several independent studies, researchers found a positive correlation between family meals and self-esteem, psychosocial outcomes and other markers of mental health.

Make Dinner Prep a Family Affair

The benefits of eating together as a family don’t have to wait until everyone is at the table. During dinner prep, parents and children have a chance to work elbow-to-elbow and talk about their days. When children participate in preparing healthy food, they may be more interested in eating it. As an added bonus, kids who take part in food preparation enjoy the benefits ofbuilding their own life skills.

DIY dishes that put kids in charge of what goes on their plates can be a fun way to bring the family together and make meal prep easy. You can customize salad kits with a selection of protein options, create your own personal pizzas or serve a bar-style dinner such as nachos, baked potatoes or tacos that let each family member choose their own toppings.

As new businesses open in the area, families have additional options on where to shop for a variety of favorite foods, making the dinner process more engaging. Try adding new items to your home menus and see how it can spark the desire to stick around for dinner.

A Night Out Together Works Too

If you don’t have a lot of time to cook, or have a busy day planned, a restaurant meal with the family can also be valuable time together. Many restaurants in the Lake Wales area are family-oriented, offering cozy seating and a relatively quiet atmosphere. It can be a great time to enjoy prepared food and plenty of time to catch up. Make a point to turn off the technology and tune in to each other.

When the weather starts to cool off, consider packing a picnic. Families with young children can spend time at places like Kiwanis Park in Lake Wales, where kids can burn some extra calories on the playground after dinner.

A after-dinner family walk on the path around Lake Wailes can make for a great time for conversation to round out a busy day.

City of Lake Wales Receives Four Bids of Interest to Redevelop Historic Walesbilt Hotel

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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July 26, 2025

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City of Lake Wales Receives Four Bids of Interest to Redevelop Historic Walesbilt Hotel

LAKE WALES – City of Lake Wales staff has received four bids from developers expressing interest in redeveloping the historic Walesbilt Hotel.

Blackmon & Andoniades Families, Newco Hospitality FL LLC, Restoration St. Louis Inc., and Yarash Real Estate Inc./DBA YRH LLC are among the submissions.

“We’re interested in developers who have proven experience in preserving large-scale historic buildings,” City Manager James Slaton said.

The developers will be evaluated and shortlisted based on their technical expertise, financial capacity, project experience and recent relevant innovative strategies for adaptive reuse of properties similar to the Walesbilt Hotel.

Shortlisted candidates will be notified of eligibility on August 8, 2025 and will be invited to submit a Request for Proposal (RFP) by October 10, 2025. The RFP will be issued to identify the most qualified developer based on proposed approach, proposed team, experience, capacity and cost effectiveness/budget.

The 10-story hotel features Mediterranean-Revival architecture. On the ground floor, more than 10 retail and office spaces with Palladian windows line the arcade which runs north and south from the center of the grand lobby. Corinthian columns, an Italian coffered ceiling, mezzanine, cement arches and marble floors, enchant the lobby, with a second-story veranda overlooking First Street and Park Avenue – both roadways recently redeveloped in a multimillion-dollar streetscape project.

Hwy. 27 Accident Reported in Lake Wales Near Mall

Maria Iannucci

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July 26, 2025

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Hwy. 27 Accident Reported in Lake Wales Near Mall

On Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 2:29 pm, a traffic accident was reported at 23270 US Highway 27 in Lake Wales, in front of Eagle Ridge Mall.

The accident reportedly involves two vehicles, one of which is reported to be a Ford F350. Further details are not yet available.

Proceed through this area with caution.

Heat Advisory Issued for Polk County by NWS

Weather

Maria Iannucci

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July 26, 2025

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Heat Advisory Issued for Polk County by NWS

NWS HeatRisk map, as issued by the National Weather Service

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for today, July 26, 2025, from 11 AM this morning until 7 PM this evening.

The heat index values are expected to be up to 109 degrees. This alert affects all of Polk County.

Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses. Remain inside in air-conditioned areas if possible.

Temperatures are expected to remain high over the next few days, and residents and visitors are encouraged to take all precautions to avoid becoming overheated.

Back to School Tips for Families: A Smooth Transition into the New School Year

Maria Iannucci

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July 25, 2025

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Back to School Tips for Families: A Smooth Transition into the New School Year

As summer winds down and the school bell looms on the horizon, many families in Polk County are preparing to shift gears from relaxed vacation vibes to structured school routines. Getting back into the swing of things doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and a few helpful tips, families can start the school year strong and stress-free.

1. Start Routines Early

It’s a good idea to ease kids back into school routines at least a week before the first day. Begin adjusting bedtime and wake-up times gradually so they’re not shocked by early mornings. Reinforcing morning rituals—such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, and eating breakfast—can help children, especially younger kids, feel more prepared and confident.

2. Make a Back-to-School Checklist

From school supplies to lunchbox essentials, having a checklist helps ensure nothing gets overlooked. Include items like breakfast cereal, snacks, backpacks, pencils, notebooks, and any specific items required by the school. Many local stores in the Lake Wales area offer back-to-school sales, so families can save while stocking up.

3. Get Organized at Home

Create a dedicated space at home for homework and school supplies. A desk with a comfortable chair can make a big difference. This can be a quiet corner of a room with good lighting and minimal distractions. Setting up a central calendar for the whole family helps keep track of important dates like open houses, sports practices, and school events.

4. Encourage Healthy Habits

Back-to-school season is a great time to reinforce healthy habits. Make sure your child is eating a balanced breakfast, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. Limit screen time before bed to help them wind down naturally.

5. Talk About Feelings

Starting a new school year can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety. Take time to talk with your child about how they feel. Encourage open communication and let them know it’s okay to feel nervous. If your child is entering a new school, consider attending orientation events or scheduling a tour.

6. Build in Family Time

With schedules filling up fast, carve out time for family dinners or weekend outings. Staying connected as a family helps kids feel supported and grounded, especially during transitions.

By taking a little time now to prepare, families can make back-to-school season a time of growth and excitement. Here’s to a great school year ahead for all our local students!

In Loving Memory of Beverly Scarborough, 81, of Frostproof

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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July 25, 2025

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Beverly Scarborough, 81

Beverly Scarborough of Frostproof passed away Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at AdventHealth in Tampa.

She was born December 29, 1943 in Auckland, New Zealand to the late Roy and Beryl Lamons; she moved to Frostproof from Auckland, New Zealand in 1946. Beverly and her husband Jimmy owned and operated the Badcock Furniture in Frostproof. She was active in the Frostproof Chamber of Commerce and was instrumental in the renovation of downtown Frostproof. Beverly was an FFA Alumni, an athletic booster, and would attend her sons sporting events. She enjoyed quilting, sewing, garden designing, floral designing, and photography.

Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Scarborough in 2010. She is survived by her sons, James “Ben” Scarborough, II and wife Tina of Frostproof, Barry Scarborough and wife Sherri of Winter Haven; brothers, Bryan Lamons of Lake Wales, Steve Lamons of Lakeland, David Lamons of Corona del Mar, California; sisters, Carol Lamons of Frostproof, Linda Baquero of Winter Haven; grandchildren, Ryan and wife Christine, Kirsten and husband Landon, Cade, Savana, Tanner and fiancé Hailey; and great-grandchildren, Riley Anne and Perry Claire.

A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, July 27, 2025 at First Baptist Church of Frostproof. The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 28, 2025 at First Baptist Church of Frostproof with Rev. Darrol Hood officiating. Interment will follow at Silver Hill Cemetery. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

Golf Cart Accident Reported in Babson Park Involves 15-Year-Old

Traffic

Maria Iannucci

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July 24, 2025

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Golf Cart Accident Reported in Babson Park Involves 15-Year-Old

At approximately 6:15pm on Thursday, July 24, 2025, a traffic accident was reported at the intersection of Scenic Hwy. N & Golfview Cutoff Rd. In Babson Park.

Preliminary information states that the accident involves a single golf cart, possibly driven by a 15 year-old. The initial report advises the driver has injuries in some capacity.

Please avoid this area as enforcement and PCFR work at the scene.

In Loving Memory of Virginia A. McClellan, 91

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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July 23, 2025

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Virginia A. McClellan, 91

Virginia A. McClellan of Tampa passed away Friday, June 27, 2025, at Tampa General Hospital.

She was born December 23, 1933, in Providence, Rhode Island to the late Louis and Blanche Tarsa; she has been a resident of Central Florida since 1959. Virginia was a homemaker who volunteered for the Lake Wales Care Center and the Lake Wales Arts Center. She was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd.

Virginia was preceded in death by her daughter, Cynthia Eldridge; Grandson Christian Uecker and brother, Louis Tarsa, Jr. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Charles R. McClellan, Jr.; daughter, Kelly Slone Collins and husband Chip of Tampa; sons, Charles R. McClellan, III and wife Teresa of Atlanta, David J. McClellan and wife Kelly of Hollywood; ten grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held 10:00 AM, Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd.

Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com

In Loving Memory of Penny Gale Brown, 62

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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July 23, 2025

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Penny Gale Brown, 62

Penny Gale Brown of Avon Park passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, at AdventHealth Sebring.

Penny was born on March 11, 1963, in Tampa, Florida to Clayton Howard Richardson and Hazel Elliott. Penny did not like to fish but she would often go with her husband. She had a very kind heart and loved to take care of family and friends, but especially her grandbabies.

Penny is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Pat Brown; daughter, Heather McLeod and husband Patrick of Frostproof; sons, Wayne Nealey of Leesville, Jimmy McLeod and wife Cory of Winter Haven, and Justin Brown and wife Christine of Frostproof; sisters, Marsha Richardson and husband Wendell of Lake Wales, and Doloris Richardson of Lake Wales; brothers, Lindon Richardson and wife Helen of St. Mary’s, Georgia, and Clayton Richardson as well as ten grandchildren.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until the funeral service at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Frostproof with Pastor Sam Haag officiating. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

In Loving Memory of Robert James “Bob” MacDonald, 88

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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July 23, 2025

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In Loving Memory of Robert James “Bob” MacDonald, 88

Robert James “Bob” MacDonald of Winter Haven passed away Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Forsythe Hospice House in Auburndale.

He was born November 21, 1936 in Weymouth, Massachusetts to the late Alexander and Margaret “Edna” MacDonald; he moved to Winter Haven from Braintree, Massachusetts in 1979. Bob was the owner and operator of MacDonald Enterprises and served with the United States National Guard. He was an avid golfer and was a member of Cypress Wood Golf Club.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Penny MacDonald; and son, James M. MacDonald. He is survived by his daughter, Cindy Harvey and husband Brian of Winter Haven; grandchildren, Julia, Kristie, and Shane; and three great-grandchildren.

No services are being held at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his honor can be sent to Good Shepherd Hospice House (https://www.chaptershealth.org/for-volunteers-donors/personal-giving/). Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

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