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

In Loving Memory of Florian “Ski” Andrew Bykowski, 96, of Frostproof

Obituaries

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December 29, 2024

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In Loving Memory of Florian “Ski” Andrew Bykowski, 96, of Frostproof

Florian Andrew Bykowski, 96

Florian “Ski” Andrew Bykowski of Frostproof passed away Monday, December 23, 2024 at his residence.

He was born August 23, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Andrew and Catherine Bykowski; he moved to Frostproof from Merced, California 32 years ago. Florian was a helicopter pilot who flew transport to oil rigs. He was a firefighter for the Forestry Department, worked in the citrus industry and was an executive pilot before retiring. Florian loved woodworking, reading, and watching movies. For pleasure he flew many different types of aircraft including fixed-wing, gliders and float planes.

Florian was preceded in death by his wife, Audrey Lee Bykowski; and brothers, Ronald Bykowski and Herbert Bykowski. He is survived by his daughter, Tina Scarborough (Ben) of Frostproof and Tracy Smith (Kruger) of Chattanooga, Tennessee; grandchildren, Ryan Scarborough, Kirsten Scarborough-Turner, Cade Scarborough, Madison Smith, and Jace Smith; great-grandchildren, Riley Anne and Perry Claire.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Frostproof.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Silver Hill Cemetery with Chaplain Linda Lynch officiating.

How the Arts Shaped Lake Wales: Lake Wales Arts Council Celebrates Over 50 Years

Maria Iannucci

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December 29, 2024

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How the Arts Shaped Lake Wales: Lake Wales Arts Council Celebrates Over 50 Years

Over 50 years after it was established, the Lake Wales Arts Council is celebrating its anniversary with the community.

From Tuesday, January 7, 2025 to Saturday, May 31, 2025, the Lake Wales Arts Council, located at 1099 Highway 60 East, Lake Wales, is hosting a special exhibit in the Michael Crews Gallery.

According to LWAC’s website, “This exhibition is a momentous tribute to the transformative power of arts in the region. Showcasing the Council’s rich history, it encapsulates over five decades of artistic evolution and its profound reflexive impact on the community. This immersive journey through time features a diverse array of visual art displays, capturing the essence of cultural growth and creativity.

“Visitors will witness the inspiring narratives of local artists and the council’s pioneering initiatives, fostering a deeper connection to Lake Wales’ artistic heritage. The exhibition commemorates artistic milestones and celebrates the enduring legacy of the Arts Council.”

Gallery hours are Monday thru Friday, 10 am-3 pm. The Exhibit is free. For more information, call 863-676-8426, or visit www.lakewalesartscouncil.org.

6 Ways to Turn Everyday Items Into Extra Cash

Featured

Maria Iannucci

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December 29, 2024

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6 Ways to Turn Everyday Items Into Extra Cash

Making money from everyday items in your home may be easier than you think. With a growing number of businesses simplifying the process, turning unused items into cash has never been simpler.

These companies are part of the circular economy, where you get to make money from your items and feel good about it at the same time. By reselling items you don’t use, you can give these items a second home or repurpose them into something that has practical applications.

For example, unused gold and precious metal jewelry can be given a second home to or repurposed for vital technology sectors like health care. This reduces the need for environmentally taxing mining operations and gives these valuable resources a second purpose.

Whether it’s clothing, jewelry, antiques or tech, consider these simple ways to make extra cash by selling items online or to local pawn shops, jewelers, or antique dealers. Lake Wales and the surrounding area has several.

Sell Used Clothing
Some newer platforms offer a less hands-on approach to selling used clothing online. Unlike popular online platforms that require you to take pictures or create listings for your items, look for outlets that allow you to simply package your items and send them out with an insured label. This makes selling clothing online a breeze and reduces the potential headaches of dealing with buyers directly and managing listings.

Sell Unworn Jewelry
For precious metals like gold jewelry or silver jewelry, selling directly to a trusted buyer can provide a fast, secure way to unlock their value. Local jewelers or pawn shops are generally looking to buy gold jewelry and other precious metal items, offering a straightforward and easy way to sell unused valuables.

Sell Designer Bags
If you have any designer bags at home, look for platforms that let you sell handbags directly to them and provide upfront estimates before you ship your items. Some platforms provide free insured shipping and marketplaces where you can buy designer handbags at discounted prices.

Sell Books You’ve Already Read
While this likely won’t make you a fortune, selling used books is a simple way to make some extra cash and help preserve the environment. College students in particular can benefit from upfront estimates and free shipping or the ability to trade in used books for ones they’ll need next semester. Plus, some platforms also offer books for purchase at heavily discounted prices.

Sell Tech After Upgrading
If you upgraded phones recently or have a used phone just collecting dust, get an upfront estimate for your phone from a trusted site. Some buyers provide free shipping and, with upfront estimates, you know exactly what you will get for your used phone before sending it in.

Sell Old Furniture
Turn your unused furniture into cash by listing items like sofas, tables or chairs on local marketplaces or apps. Clear photos and detailed descriptions can help attract buyers nearby, saving you the hassle of shipping. Selling old furniture not only earns extra money but also helps reduce waste by giving items a second life.

In Loving Memory of Kenneth Sikes, 87

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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December 28, 2024

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Kenneth Sikes, a man of boundless curiosity and unwavering spirit, passed away Monday, December 23, 2024, at the age of 87. Known for his inquisitive nature and occasional stubborn streak, Ken approached life with a constant desire to learn and grow.

To know Ken was to gain a lifelong friend. His door – often quite literally – was always open. His advice, though direct and sometimes blunt, was grounded in honesty and a sincere desire to help.

Ken was a cherished father and grandfather, known for his thoughtful holiday and birthday cards that never failed to brighten the day. His grandchildren will fondly remember the hours spent around the card table, where he taught them not only the rules of the game but also the value of laughter, patience, and a little healthy competition. Ken’s kindness, humor, and steadfast loyalty to those he loved built a lasting legacy of friendship and warmth that will be profoundly missed.

He is survived by his daughters, Laura Eckhardt (Pete) of Tallahassee and Leigh-Anne Vigne (Al) of Babson Park; sons, Kevin Sikes (Sarah) of Jacksonville and Adam Sikes (Amy) of Tallahassee; sister, Sandra Hadaway of Savannah, GA; six grandchildren, Kathryn and Elizabeth Eckhardt, Abigail and Ashlyn Sikes, Anna Sikes (fiancé, Mark), Lydia Dueck (Ben) and their child, Elliot.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Lake Wales Man Charged with Grand Theft After Allegedly Leaving Lowe’s with Over $3K in Merchandise

Maria Iannucci

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December 28, 2024

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Lake Wales Man Charged with Grand Theft After Allegedly Leaving Lowe’s with Over $3K in Merchandise

When one is charged with Grand Theft, you may not expect to see a 5-gallon bucket on the list of stolen items. But it is one of a host of items documented on this Lake Wales Police Department affidavit concerning the arrest of a 29-year-old Lake Wales man charged with Grand Theft.

The man arrested on December 20, 2024, in this case is Willie Harvin, of Lake Wales, DOB September 8, 1995. A co-defendant is also listed on the affidavit, one Luis Alvarado.

The following is the explanation of probable cause documented by the arresting officer. The report is quoted here verbatim, so the reader may interpret the report for themselves. Individuals are innocent until proven guilty:

“On December 19, 2024, Officer Claros placed the following facts on a complaint affidavit:

“’On 12/19/2024, I responded to Lowe’s located at (REDACTED) reference to a retail theft. Upon my arrival, I met with Asset Protection Manager, (REDACTED). (REDACTED) stated prior to calling law enforcement, they were notified via their store Flock camera of a known suspect vehicle, a silver newer model Toyota Corolla bearing Florida tag (REDACTED), entering the store parking lot. (REDACTED) advised a passenger in the vehicle, later identified as Luis Alvarado, entered the store and selected 5 (five) 4 inch 1 HP Well pumps, a Black + Decker Robo Series vacuum, and a 5-gallon Lowe’s bucket (total value of the merchandise is $3,269.97). (REDACTED) stated Alvarado then proceeded to the exit, passing all points of sale without making an attempt to purchase the items, and exited the doors at which time he was able to intercept him. (REDACTED) stated Alvarado began speaking Spanish and walked away towards the silver Toyota.

“After reviewing video surveillance, (REDACTED) stated the driver of the vehicle, later identified as Willie Harvin, can be seen entering the store moments before Alvarado. (REDACTED) stated Harvin never purchased any items and appeared to be the lookout. (REDACTED) stated throughout the theft, Alvarado was on the phone and likely communicating with Harvin. Immediately after Alvarado was stopped at the exit, (REDACTED) stated Harvin immediately exits the store following Alvarado and both fled the parking lot in the silver Toyota Corolla.

“Based on my investigation, probable cause exists to charge Luis Alvarado and Willie Harvin with grand theft for acting in concert to commit theft by selecting $3,269.97 worth of merchandise and passing all points of sale without making any attempts of purchasing the items.”

“On December 20, 2024, I located Willie Harvin at his residence (REDACTED) and placed him under arrest in reference to the complaint affidavit which Officer Claros completed on December 19, 2024. I interviewed Harvin and post Miranda, Harvin stated he took “Pablo” who is actually Luis Alvarado to Lowes for $40. Harvin stated Pablo was shopping for some kind of pump. Harvin stated he met up with Pablo in the store and he added up the price of the things Pablo had and it was around $600. Harvin stated he was looking at Christmas trees when he saw “the man in the blue shirt” who is AP for Lowes, running out of the store. Harvin stated he went to find out what was going on and the man said “he just stole and you’re in it too.” Hardin stated he saw Pablo in the parking lot and he stated “I know I didn’t steal so I just left.” Hardin stated he drove away with Pablo in the car with him even though he knew he had just stolen from the store. Hardin asked me “what was I supposed to do? Stay there?” Hardin is charged with Grand Theft.”

What to Plant in January in Your Garden

Featured

Maria Iannucci

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December 27, 2024

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There are several edible plants you can grow in your home garden, no matter what part of the Lake Wales area you live in (Central Zone). Here are some ideas as to what seeds to start and what plants to get in the ground in January for a successful late winter harvest (courtesy of IFAS Extension UF):

Easily transplant: arugula, beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, collards, eggplant, endive, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, peppers, sugarcane, Swiss chard, tomatillo, and tomatoes.

Transplant with care: celery, mustard, pineapple, potatoes, and spinach.

Use seeds: cantaloupes, carrots, corn, cucumbers, onions (bunching), peas (English), radish, squashes, turnips, and watermelon.

Serious Crash in Babson Park, Multiple Injuries

Maria Iannucci

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December 27, 2024

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Serious Crash in Babson Park, Multiple Injuries

At an approximately 6:31 p.m. on Friday, December 27, 2024 at or near 1010 Scenic Hwy. N, Babson Park, in proximity of Crooked Bass Grill and Tavern, a traffic collision was reported.

Nathaniel Gale, Polk County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer, says that three individuals were transported from the scene, one trauma alert was transported by helicopter, a second trauma alert was transported by ground, and a third individual was also transported by ground.

Additional information has been requested of Polk County Sheriff’s Office; this article will be updated when received.

Grove Vehicle Tears Down Power Lines, Snaps Pole, Triggers Fire

Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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December 27, 2024

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Grove Vehicle Tears Down Power Lines, Snaps Pole, Triggers Fire

At approximately 2:41 PM, on Friday, December 27, 2024, an electrical emergency was reported near 4443 Mammoth Grove Rd. in Lake Wales.

A vehicle being driven near this location (the vehicle is known to be called a “grove goat”) appears to have struck powerlines and torn them to the ground and across the road, according to Carrie Horstman, PCSO Public Information Officer.

At the time of publication, the powerlines are live in Mammoth Grove Grove is closed in both directions near this address. Please avoid this area as the road is shut down and not safe to travel on.

There is no confirmation of entrapment at this time. A small brushfire is being extinguished at this time as a result of the wires being down.

Duke Energy, PCSO and PCFR are all presently on scene. Polk County Sheriff’s Office has tweeted the following:

“@DukeEnergy power lines were pulled down by a grove goat piece of machinery working along Mammoth Grove Road in Lake Wales – that roadway west of Camp Mack Rd is shut down until further notice. Please use alternate routes.”

Polk County Fire Rescue PIO Nathaniel Gale has confirmed that no one has been transported with injuries.

A representative from Duke Energy says that power is expected to be restored to about 400 affected customers by 6:45 pm today.

Single Vehicle Crash in Lake Wales, One Transported to Hospital

Maria Iannucci

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December 27, 2024

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Single Vehicle Crash in Lake Wales, One Transported to Hospital

At approximately 10:04 AM this morning on Friday, December 27, 2024, a traffic collision was reported near 2838 Masterpiece Rd. in Lake Wales.

Carrie Horstman, Public Information Officer at Polk County Sheriff’s Office, advises that the crash involved, a single vehicle. The driver, a female, self reported the crash.

“She climbed out herself,” says Horstman.

Nathaniel Gale of Polk County Fire Rescue says one was transported from the scene.

The scene was cleared as of 11:15 AM

J.C. Reviews: Hundreds of Beavers is a Laugh Riot

Entertainment

Maria Iannucci

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December 27, 2024

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J.C. Reviews: Hundreds of Beavers is a Laugh Riot

by James Coulter

It’s the end of the year. Rather than spend it going out to the theaters, I’ve decided to catch up on watching films I missed out on earlier this year.

That’s probably a good decision since there are not many “good'” movies out right now. I refuse, on principle, to watch the live-action Lion King prequel. Same with Kraven the Hunter. And while Sonic 3 looks good, I still haven’t watched the first two Sonic movies.

So, what movies have I decided to watch instead? Well, I could catch up on seeing the second Joker movie or The Crow remake, but, personally, a root canal without anesthesia would probably be a more enjoyable experience.

In the end, I’ve opted to watch an indie film that’s considered to be the funniest movie of the year–and chances are, most of y’all have never heard of it. That movie is: Hundreds of Beavers.

Never heard of it? I don’t blame you. It’s an indie film that ran the rounds on the indie film circuit earlier this year. It was later released onto video-on-demand, but it’s currently available to watch for free on Tubi and YouTube.

But is this indie comedy worth the hype? Is Hundreds of Beavers worth the hundreds of accolades and praise it has received? Or is it a real groaner that’s worth only hundreds of groans and sighs?

Hundreds of Beavers is an indie slapstick filmed in black-and-white, styled after the comedy flicks of the early 20th Century. The story follows the misadventures and misfortunes of an applejack salesman named Jean Kayak. After his orchard and home are comically destroyed, Jean is forced to brave the cold, unforgiving winter.

To survive, Jean becomes a fur trapper, catching rascally varmints to trade for supplies. Eventually, he falls in love with the merchant’s daughter. But the merchant, being a stern father figure, insists that the only way Jean can have his daughter’s hand in marriage is if he collects the fur of…hundreds of beavers. (Cue title drop!)

Hundreds of Beavers is one of those movies where the most ringing endorsement I can give is to simply watch the movie. Go ahead. Watch it! It’s free to stream on Tubi and YouTube. It really is that good.

As mentioned before, the movie is filmed in black-and-white in the style of classic silent movies. The characters never speak any dialogue, only the occasional grunts, moans, and sighs. The only time dialogue appears is with old-timey title cards.

Otherwise, this movie is pure slapstick. The entire film is a series of comedic vignettes that pits man against nature in the most SNAFU way possible. Poor Jean has to survive the winter with only the clothes on his back–and sometimes barely with that. And anything that can go wrong for him not only goes wrong but spectacularly so.

Essentially, the entire film is a live-action cartoon, with the comedy undoubtedly reminiscent of Looney Tunes. After all, the plot focuses on a dimwitted hunter who’s constantly outsmarted by forest creatures. Evidently, Elmer Fudd and Bugs Bunny were huge inspirations.

So, if this film is essentially a cartoon, why film it in live-action than in animation? Because it makes the wacky shenanigans all the wackier, obviously. If this film were animated, the Looney Tunes-esque antics would have been too commonplace. Having it filmed in live-action makes the slapstick and cartoon-style antics stand out even more and therefore come across as funnier in comparison.

As I said, the most ringing endorsement I can give this film is to simply watch it for yourself. If you’re looking for a laugh riot of a movie to watch, Hundreds of Beavers is guaranteed to be up your alley.

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