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
Kevin Keith Cavanaugh of Frostproof passed away Monday, May 26, 2025 at his residence.
He was born March 22, 1967 in Tokyo, Japan to John and Ruth Cavanaugh; he moved to Frostproof from Washington DC five years ago. Kevin was a GS-13 Resources Unit Leader for FEMA and was proud to serve the communities and our country. He was an adventurous, people person. He loved to cook and bake, especially birthday cakes for friends, and he was known for his generous spirit.
Kevin is survived by his father, John W. Cavanaugh of Frostproof; Ruth Cavanaugh of Frostproof; brothers, Ed Cavanaugh of Orlando, John Cavanaugh, II of Frostproof, and Shawn Cavanaugh and wife Tracy of Woodstock, Georgia; nieces and nephews, Kendall, Kaylee, Zachary, and Nicholas.
Lake Wales, Fla. – More than seven decades after he was reported missing in action during the Korean War, Master Sgt. George C. Manring has finally returned home. On May 28, 2025, he was laid to rest in Lake Wales surrounded by family, fellow veterans, community members, and representatives of the 7th Infantry Division. During the solemn ceremony, Manring’s family was presented with The Order of the Bayonet — one of the most distinguished honors bestowed by the division.
As the American flag was folded and handed to his relatives, Lake Wales paid its final respects to a hometown hero. Master Sgt. George C. Manring has come home — not just to rest, but to be remembered. ( Photo Credit: U.S. Army 7th Infantry Division)
Master Sgt. Manring, who was just 21 years old at the time of his death, began his long journey home more than seven decades ago amid the chaotic and brutal conditions of the Korean War—specifically during the harrowing Battle of Chosin Reservoir. He had been assigned to the 31st Regimental Combat Team in November 1950 under General Douglas MacArthur’s directive to unify North and South Korea. On December 6, 1950, he was reported missing in action near Hagaru-ri. With no remains recovered and no evidence of survival, the U.S. Army issued a presumptive Finding of Death on December 31, 1953. It wasn’t until 2018—when North Korea repatriated several containers containing the remains of American service members—that the process of identification could begin. After years of meticulous forensic analysis by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Master Sgt. Manring was finally identified in March 2025, bringing long-overdue closure to his family and the Lake Wales community.
The Family Of Master Sergeant Manring (Photo Credit: U.S. Army 7th Infantry Division)
Manring was born on April 3, 1929, in Opp, Alabama, to William and Eula Manring. The family later relocated to Lake Wales, Florida.
Presentation Of The United States Flag To The Family Of Master Sergeant Manring’s Family (Photo Credit: U.S. Army 7th Infantry Division)
Becoming a Master Sergeant (E-8) is one of the highest non-commissioned officer ranks in the U.S. Army and requires a soldier to demonstrate exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and unwavering dedication. The promotion process is highly competitive, typically requiring over a decade of service, completion of advanced military education courses, and a consistent record of excellence in performance evaluations. That Sgt. Manring achieved this distinguished rank by the age of 21 is both extraordinary and indicative of the remarkable soldier he was — respected by peers and entrusted with serious command responsibilities at a young age.
Veteran Service Members Came From All Over Florida To Honor Master Sergeant Manring (Photo Credit: Carl F. of the Daily Ridge)
During Wednesday’s service, Manring was posthumously inducted into the prestigious Order of the Bayonet. This honor is reserved for soldiers and veterans who exemplify the highest standards of the 7th Infantry Division — strength, honor, and enduring service. The order reflects the spirit of the American infantryman, particularly those who served in harsh conditions and withstood extraordinary odds, like those who fought at Chosin Reservoir.
U.S. Army Second Lieutenant Detheridge Presented the Order of the Bayonet to the family of Master Sgt. George C. Manring on behalf of the 7th Infantry Division (Photo Credit: Carl F. of the Daily Ridge)
Manring was also a recipient of the Purple Heart with clusters, a decoration awarded to service members wounded or killed in combat. The clusters signify that he had been wounded multiple times during his service, a testament to the danger he faced and his continued bravery under fire. His valor, sacrifice, and resilience are now formally recognized and remembered by both his family and a grateful nation.
Sergeant Major (SGM) Kamenicky Detailing The Many Awards Given Awarded Posthumously To Master Sgt. Manring (Photo Credit: Carl F. of the Daily Ridge)
In addition to his combat commendations, Master Sgt. Manring was awarded the Army of Occupation Medal with Japan Clasp, signifying his service during the post-World War II occupation of Japan. Many U.S. soldiers, including those later deployed to Korea, were stationed in Japan as part of the Allied presence before hostilities broke out on the Korean Peninsula. This medal not only honors his early postwar duty, but also provides a glimpse into the path that led Manring and his unit to the front lines of the Korean War.
Veteran Service Members Came From All Over Florida To Honor Master Sergeant Manring (Photo Credit: Carl F. of the Daily Ridge)
Master Sgt. Manring was also posthumously awarded the Silver Star, the third-highest military combat decoration awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States. This prestigious honor reflects his extraordinary bravery and selflessness on the battlefield. While the exact details of his heroic actions remain limited due to the circumstances of his unit’s loss at Chosin Reservoir, the award confirms that Manring displayed exceptional courage and leadership in the face of overwhelming danger.
Master Sgt. Manring was also posthumously awarded the U.S. Army Good Conduct Medal, a recognition given to enlisted soldiers who demonstrate exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity in active federal military service. The award is a reflection of Manring’s discipline, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty — qualities that earned him respect among his peers and superiors alike. Though his life was cut tragically short, the Good Conduct Medal affirms the integrity with which he served both his country and his fellow soldiers.
Veteran Service Members Came From All Over Florida To Honor Master Sergeant Manring (Photo Credit: Carl F. of the Daily Ridge)
Master Sgt. Manring was posthumously awarded the Korean Service Medal with three bronze service stars, signifying his participation in multiple major campaigns during the Korean War. Each bronze star represents a distinct campaign in which he served, highlighting the intensity and duration of his combat experience. The Korean Service Medal honors those who served in the Korean Theater between 1950 and 1954, and the addition of three stars speaks to Manring’s direct involvement in some of the most critical and challenging battles of the war, including the harrowing events surrounding the Chosin Reservoir.
Metals Posthumously Awarded To Master Sergeant Manring (Photo Credit: U.S. Army 7th Infantry Division)
Master Sgt. Manring was also posthumously awarded the Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, recognizing his proficiency and skill with the standard-issue service rifle. This badge is awarded to soldiers who demonstrate superior accuracy during qualification tests, reflecting a high level of discipline, training, and battlefield readiness. For Manring, the badge not only marks him as an expert marksman but also underscores his preparedness as a frontline soldier — someone who could be relied upon in the most demanding combat situations.
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army 7th Infantry Division)
Editor’s Note:
As the son of a WWII veteran (U.S. Army Medic Winston E. Fish Sr.) and the brother of a U.S. Marine (Lance Corporal Joseph K. Fish) who fell in combat, I wept while writing this article. Just think—74 years without having your loved one’s remains. The article is long, and I deliberately explained nearly every award. Master Sergeant Manring deserves to be honored—not just for his accomplishments, but for the simple, profound fact that he laid down his life in the fight for his country, his fellow soldiers, and for others he never even knew.
Still, his awards and achievements are monumental. The term “War Hero” doesn’t even seem enough.
If you have children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren, teach them about the sacrifice so many have made to allow us to call America the greatest nation on earth. That title isn’t about a particular time period or the material wealth of our country—it’s about the enormous sacrifices made to keep not only the United States free, but a large part of the world as well.
Educate them that this isn’t about politics or power—it’s about the overwhelming responsibility we have to do good. Not only here at home, but around the globe. In our 249-year history, American soldiers have been killed or wounded in over 70 countries and territories.
Please, teach them again why we are the greatest nation.
May God bless you—and our brave men and women in uniform.
Lake Wales, FL – A new dress code update will impact students attending Lake Wales Charter Secondary Schools beginning in the 2025–2026 school year. The district has announced that Bermuda length shorts will now be required for all students enrolled in secondary campuses.
The policy applies to Bok Academy South, Bok Academy North, and Lake Wales High School, and will be enforced across all settings — including standard school days, dress-down days, and special occasions.
Parents are urged to add Bermuda shorts to their back-to-school shopping lists to ensure compliance with the updated guidelines. This change is part of an ongoing effort to maintain uniformity and appropriateness in student dress across all secondary campuses.
“All secondary Lake Wales Charter Schools require Bermuda shorts for the 25-26 school year,” the district stated in a recent announcement shared on social media.
Families are reminded to check with their child’s specific school for additional dress code details or requirements.
To stay updated on policy changes and official announcements, visit the Lake Wales Charter Schools’ websites or follow their verified social media pages.
Jerry L. Gentry, 73, of Babson Park, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, after a courageous battle with an inoperable tumor — the final challenge in a life that proved over and over again that he had at least nine lives to give. Born in Tennessee on October 13, 1951, to Owen and Lena Gentry, Jerry lived a life defined by grit, generosity, and guitar strings.
He proudly served his country as a Vietnam veteran and later dedicated over 30 years to Kelsey-Hayes. After retiring from the auto industry, he rolled up his sleeves once more, working side by side with his son-in-law in construction and HVAC. Jerry was never one to sit still, and he poured his work ethic and heart into everything he did. A survivor in every sense, Jerry beat the odds more times than most — overcoming lung cancer, strokes, heart attacks, and bypass surgery. Through it all, he remained the same kind, warm, and quick-to-laugh man who never met a stranger.
Jerry was married and divorced to Theresa Rocha and Debra Richardson. Later in life, he found the love and companionship he had always hoped for with his soulmate, Anna Wilkin — a bond filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support.
He is survived by his children: Keneth (Jaunita) Gentry and their daughters, Destiny (and her husband), Amber (and her husband); and his daughter Sarah (David) Kaiser. He also leaves behind his adopted daughter, Glenda Pitman, and his devoted miniature schnauzer, Princess — who was never far from his side. Jerry was blessed with two great-grandchildren, countless laughs, and even more love. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, all of whom he cherished deeply.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Owen and Lena Gentry, and his brothers Eddie, Willie, Dennis and Randall.
Later in life, Jerry moved to Florida, where he found more than sunshine — he found a church and a community that quickly became his second family. He loved to play guitar and sing, often filling rooms (and hearts) with music. To know Jerry was to love him. He gave freely of his time, his talents, and his stories — often with a grin and a guitar nearby. His legacy lives on in the laughter, love, and strength of his family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST at the First Christian Church in Babson Park, with snacks to follow. All are welcome to come share stories, smiles, and music in honor of Jerry’s incredible life.Please RSVP to Ken Gentry at 309-620-0980, Sarah Kaiser at 734-564-6648, or via email at [email protected].
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Jerry by performing an act of kindness in his memory — or by playing your favorite song and singing along, just the way he would have liked. Donations in his memory may be made to two causes close to his heart: Wounded Warrior Project and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Disney currently has two live-action remakes in theaters. One is Snow White. The other is Lilo & Stitch. And yet, rather than review either of those, I’ve chosen to review a live-action remake that was released nearly half a year ago: Mufasa: The Lion King. Because it will be a cold day in the bad place when I decide to spend my hard-earned cash to watch a Disney live-action remake in theaters.
In 2019, Disney released its live-action remake of The Lion King. And despite the CGI animals in that movie making wild animals in a NatGeo documentary look more animated in comparison, that movie earned so much money at the box office that it became the top-grossing animated film of all time, even beating out the original Lion King.
So, of course, Disney wanted to capitalize on its success by releasing another Lion Kingmovie. But rather than go the easy route of remaking Lion King II: Simba’s Pride, Disney, surprisingly enough, decided to do something original by making a prequel film based on Simba’s father, Mufasa. But did Mufasa: The Lion King live up to its royal title? Or did it deserve being dethroned at the box office by Sonic 3?
The film starts with Simba and Nala heading off to have a second cub. They leave their daughter, Kiara, to be watched over by Timon, Pumbaa, and Rafiki, the latter of whom decides to keep the young lion cub entertained by telling her the story of her grandfather Mufasa.
After being separated from his parents by a flood, the young Mufasa is adopted by the family of Taka (who grows up to become Scar). However, upon growing up, Mufasa once again faces danger when a pride of white lions, led by the evil Kiros, arrives to attack his new family and take over their homeland.
Now, Mufasa and Taka must embark on a journey to seek haven in Milele, a lush oasis that many lions dismiss as a legend. Along the way, the two lions are joined by Mufasa’s future wife, Sarabi, her guardian, Zazu, and the outcast mandrill Rafiki. Will this band of animals reach the fabled Milele and escape the evil clutches of Kiros? Well, the fact that The Lion King exists pretty much answers that question, now doesn’t it?
So, have you ever wondered how Mufasa became the titular Lion King? How Scar got his eponymous scar and name? Or how Pride Rock came to be? I’m sure many people pondered these very questions. But these are questions that are probably best left unanswered and don’t require a whole movie to answer. After all, sometimes it’s best to let viewers think for themselves and come up with their own answers.
But, of course, Disney can’t make money off people using their own imaginations. So, they decided to make a whole movie answering these questions that some people may have been wondering, but weren’t really demanding any answers for. Because Disney needs to make all of the money!
To its credit, Mufasa has two things in its favor. First, its animal characters are animated slightly better than in the previous live-action film. The 2019 Lion King really wanted to make the animal
characters look realistic to a fault. They look so much like real animals that they lack any real expression. In contrast, Mufasa has the characters occasionally smile and emote, making them slightly more expressive.
And second, Mufasa attempts to tell an original story. Again, it would have been so much easier for Disney to create a remake of the second animated Lion King movie. But they decided to put in some effort by creating an original story.
Even then, Mufasa still isn’t a good movie. Its story may be original, but it’s a story that didn’t need to be told. No one needed to know how Scar got his name or scar, or how Pride Rock was created, or even how Mufasa became king. And like most other prequels, the fact that the original movie exists removes all tension on whether or not this story will play out well.
Then there’s the music. For a movie based on an animated classic with a memorable soundtrack, the music in this movie is rather unmemorable and unremarkable. They certainly don’t live up to the iconic songs from the original Lion King soundtrack.
The worst offenders are “I Always Wanted a Brother”, which has the young Taka sing the word “brother” extremely awkwardly, and “Bye Bye”, the villain’s song, which tries to sound intimidating, but the way Kiros says “Bye Bye” sounds less intimidating and more like how Donald Trump says those words.
Believe me when I say there’s no good reason to watch this movie, and I’m glad I never paid good money to see it in theaters. It was as bland, boring, and unnecessary as the Lion King remake and pretty much every other Disney live-action remake. Which is why I’m not in a big rush to watch either Snow White or Lilo & Stitch in theaters.
She served in the Air Force. He served in the Marines. Since then, they’ve married, raised children, and served their hometown as business owners, community volunteers, and even elected officials.
Billie and Michael Hutto both live in Frostproof. They have raised seven children together, one of whom has grown up to follow in their footsteps and join the military.
Previously the owner of P&J Recreation in Frostproof, Billie sold the family business last December and now spends her time serving as her father’s caregiver.
Mike, on the other hand, currently works as a realtor with Keystone Realty. He was recently re-elected for another three-year term on the Frostproof City Council, where he had been appointed as the mayor.
Billie joined the U.S. Air Force in 1998 and was stationed atTyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, Florida, where she served as a contracting officer. Before that, she had worked as a state-certified corrections officer after graduating from college.
Her assistant warden influenced her to join the Air Force. She was told that the military branch offered a “much better atmosphere” with the opportunity to visit more places. As someone who wanted to see the world and pursue her education, she felt it was the right fit for her.
“It took me many places with many opportunities and afforded me the option that I always wanted to pursue my education,” she said.
Her time in the military not only allowed her to visit many countries like England, but also complete her associate’s, bachelor’s, and even master’s degree.
Mike, on the other hand, was a wayward soul without a sense of direction. Seeking structure and discipline in his life, he was inspired by his best friend’s father to join the U.S. Marines.
“Needing some structure and discipline and harder guidance, breaking you down to build you back up, I felt like that was more of what I needed, and that was the reason I chose the Marine Corps.”
He was enlisted as an air traffic control trainee stationed at Cherry Point, North Carolina. He made several appearances at Pensacola Naval Air Station, and received several accommodations and recognitions for inclement weather, landings, and non-radar landings.
Since leaving the military, both have married, raised a family of seven children, and have served their community as business owners and, in Mike’s case, as elected officials.
Lake Wales, FL – A woman identified as Madisyn Margaret Griffin of Avon Park was arrested by the Lake Wales Police Department on May 16, 2025, following a traffic stop in which she was allegedly driving 88 mph in a 50 mph zone with a young child in the vehicle.
According to arrest affidavits filed with the Polk County Clerk of Court, Griffin was stopped near the intersection of Highway 27 and Washington Avenue at approximately 11:32 p.m. Officers alleged that a strong odor of alcohol was coming from her person and that she exhibited signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and unsteady movements. Griffin allegedly admitted to consuming alcohol and taking a muscle relaxer earlier in the day.
Police also reported observing a small child, approximately 4 years old, seated in the rear of the vehicle.
Field sobriety exercises were conducted, during which Griffin allegedly displayed multiple indicators of impairment, including sustained nystagmus and difficulty with balance and coordination. According to police, she had difficulty maintaining heel-to-toe steps and counted inconsistently during the tests.
Griffin was taken into custody and transported to the Polk County Jail without incident. At the processing center, she allegedly provided two breath samples on an Intoxilyzer 8000, which registered blood alcohol concentrations of 0.101 and 0.102 — both over Florida’s legal limit of 0.08 BAC. Under Florida Statute 316.193(4), DUI charges can be enhanced if a minor is present in the vehicle.
Griffin, who is listed as a substitute teacher for the Highlands County School Board, was charged with DUI with a person under 18 in the vehicle, a first-degree misdemeanor.
Lake Wales residents living in single-family and mobile homes might pay more for fire protection, while multi-family homes might end up paying less if the City of Lake Wales approves changes to the preliminary rate for the fire protection services assessment.
At their workshop meeting on Wed. May 28, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners reviewed a resolution to amend the preliminary rate for the fire protection services assessment for the next fiscal year.
Under the proposed changes, single-family units are expected to pay $174 per dwelling unit, multi-family units will pay $143, and mobile home units will pay $63.00.
For non-residential properties, commercial properties are expected to pay $0.18 per square foot, industrial/warehouse will pay $0.03, and institutional will pay $0.14.
“The Fire Protection Assessment will create a dedicated funding source for fire protection services,” wrote Finance Director Dorothy Abbott.
“Failure in adopting Resolution 2025-11 will result in a loss of $1,906,519 in estimated net revenue dedicated to the fire department budget,” she continued. “This money would then have to come from the general fund.”
At the meeting, Abbot explained that it had been ten years since the fire assessment rate was updated, which is why the rate needed to be changed in order to help balance the city’s finances.
“It is hard to balance the city’s books unless we look at increasing the fire assessment,” she said.
Commissioner Keith Thompson asked why rates for multi-family units decreased while the rates for other units increased. Abbott replied that the city had worked with an outside entity to review fire calls and determine that their assessment for rates was “reasonable and accurately reflected service costs.”
City Manager James Slaton insisted that the city aimed to alleviate the burden on taxpayers and thus amend the fire assessment rates to help cover the sufficient fire protection needed. “We asked what we need and not more,” he said.
The Lake Wales City Commission will vote on the resolution, along with other items in the consent agenda, at their next regular meeting, scheduled for Tues. June 3 at 6 PM at Lake Wales City Hall.
The Lake Wales Woman’s Club is planning to host its 3rd Annual Plant and Garden Festival this October, with the Lake Wales City Commission reviewing a special permit for the upcoming event.
At their workshop meeting on Wed. May 28, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners reviewed a special event permit application submitted by the Lake Wales Woman’s Club.
The application was for a special permit to host a plant and garden festival event in October at their building, located at 275 E Park Ave., Lake Wales.
The request was to have portions of Cypress Garden Lane and Park Avenue closed during the event, which is planned to be scheduled between 9 AM to 3 PM on Oct. 18 and 9 AM to 1 PM on Oct. 19.
Specifically, the request is for the temporary closure of Cypress Garden Lane between the entrances to the parking area.
For the past three years, the Lake Wales Woman’s Club has hosted its annual plant and garden festival to sell a diverse selection of plants, yard art, and garden accessories. The event is free to the public.
For more information, visit their website at: lakewaleswomansclub.org
Lake Wales city commissioners will vote upon the special event permit, along with the rest of their consent agenda, at their next regular meeting, scheduled for Tues. June 3 at 6 PM Lake Wales City Hall.
To help annex Hickory Ridge residential subdivision into the city limits, less than an acre of land is being considered for annexation by the City of Lake Wales.
At their workshop meeting on Wed. May 28, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners reviewed an ordinance to annex approximately .25 acres of land located west of Capps Road and adjacent to the Lake Wales Country Club and Oakwood Community.
The annexation was petitioned by its owner, FLLWCC, to allow for the future annexation of Hickory Ridge, a residential subdivision located at the corner of Capps Road and SR 60. In August 2021, Hickory Ridge signed an active binding annexation agreement in exchange for municipal water.
“As the project nears the final plat, it is in the City’s best interest to act on the annexation agreement now, before the lots are officially platted and recorded in the County,” wrote Autumn Cochella, Growth Management Director.
No immediate development has been planned for the .25-acre property. However, once it is annexed, it will allow Hickory Ridge to seek annexation in the corporate city limits.
Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson inquired about Hickory Ridge seeking annexation for municipal water. He asked if the property had access to a sewer.
Cochella replied that the property was not on city sewer and that she was unsure where the people on that property receive their sewer services. Gibson asked staff to ascertain the property’s sewer situation.
Lake Wales city commissioners will vote upon the resolution at their next regular meeting, scheduled for Tues. June 3 at 6 PM at Lake Wales City Hall.
