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

Frostproof

Staff Reporter

-

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 Earl Lee Hope, Jr., 90, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

-

June 20, 2025

0

Earl Lee Hope, Jr., 90

Earl Lee Hope, Jr. of Lake Wales passed away Thursday, June 19, 2025 at Lakeland Regional Hospital.

He was born June 30, 1934 in Perth Amboy, New Jersey to the late Earl and Florence Hope; he moved to Lake Wales from New Jersey in 2003. Earl served with the United States Navy and the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He was a retired letter carrier for the United States Postal Service. Earl enjoyed going golf and watching sports. He was an avid reader and loved any Turner Classic movies.

Earl was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Hope; and brother, Howard Hope. He is survived by his daughters, Cheryl Sweder and husband Michael of Manning, South Carolina, Victoria Hulse and husband Robert of Hightstown, New Jersey; son, Robert Hope of Edison, New Jersey; grandchildren, Timothy (Natalie), Lauren (Joe); and great-grandchildren, Sydney and Ryder.

A memorial service will be scheduled for later this year at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales.

City Of Lake Wales Officially Dedicates New Pollinator Garden, Oakley Park

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

-

June 20, 2025

0

City Of Lake Wales Officially Dedicates New Pollinator Garden, Oakley Park

CITY OF LAKE WALES – The pollinator and sculpture garden, located across the street from the library, has a new name: Oakley Park.

This park is named in honor of Lynn and Tommy Oakley, owners of Oakley Transport in Lake Wales. They have served the community in many ways over the last 30 years. Oakley Transport Inc. donated $100,000, expanding public art and further beautifying Lake Wales, which will enhance the quality of life in our historic downtown for generations to come. An additional $49,000 was awarded to the city by the T-Mobile Hometown Grant Program to fund the project. City Manager James Slaton said, “This pollinator garden is a huge component of our ‘City in a Garden’ concept.”

The City’s horticulture team has been working on this park for over a year: the soil was prepared, the irrigation system was updated, and pollinator plants were carefully curated to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. Agriculture students from Roosevelt Academy, under the direction of their Ag teacher Ray Cruze, donated some of the plants in the garden. Security fencing, enhanced lighting, and a newly paved parking lot were also part of the project. Public artwork has been installed to enhance the beauty of this space including a butterfly topiary on the Park Avenue side of the park and a kinetic sculpture on the Crystal Avenue side. “In the coming year, you will see more outdoor artwork added to the garden as part of the City’s public art program,” said Stephanie Lutton, parks and recreation director.

Children’s Craft for Pollinator Week at Bok Tower Gardens June 21

Maria Iannucci

-

June 20, 2025

0

Children’s Craft for Pollinator Week at Bok Tower Gardens June 21

Bring the kids to the Ramble Barn in Hammock Hollow at Bok Tower Gardens for a hands-on activity to celebrate the end of Pollinator Week! Materials will be available from 10 AM to 12 PM, or while supplies last.

Event Date & Time

Saturday, June 21, 2025
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Location

Ramble Barn, Hammock Hollow

Price

Free for Members / $20 for non-member adults, $10 for non-member child (includes admission) / Free for children 5 and under
No Registration required

PSCO to Continue Providing Fire and Police Telecommunication Services for Lake Wales

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

-

June 20, 2025

0

PSCO to Continue Providing Fire and Police Telecommunication Services for Lake Wales

by James Coulter

The City of Lake Wales will continue to receive fire and police telecommunication services through the Polk County Sheriff’s Office now that city commissioners have approved an interlocal agreement.

At their recent meeting on Tues. June 18, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously to approve their consent agenda, which included an interlocal agreement with the PCSO for fire and police telecommunication services.

The agreement will allow the PSCO to continue providing fire and police telecommunication services from Wed. Oct. 1, 2025, through Wed. Sept. 30, 2026.

The annual cost for telecommunication services will be $51,923 for fire and $355,066 for police.

The City of Lake Wales initially entered into its interlocal agreement in 2021. As the agenda item memo explained, “This agreement is similar to those in place in Winter Haven, Auburndale, Frostproof, Fort Meade, and Davenport.”

Burns Avenue Overnight Three-Vehicle Crash Sends Two To Hospital, Remains Under Investigation

Maria Iannucci

-

June 20, 2025

0

Burns Avenue Overnight Three-Vehicle Crash Sends Two To Hospital, Remains Under Investigation

The southbound view of Burns Ave. From Mammoth Grove Rd. Photo: Maria Iannucci

Additional official information has been obtained regarding a serious traffic crash in Lake Wales last night.

A traffic crash was reported to Polk County Fire Rescue at 9:31 p.m. at 2699 Burns Ave. In Lake Wales, around 300 yards south of Mammoth Grove Rd. Sgt. Petkevich of Lake Wales Police Department states that the crash involved three vehicles: a Chevy Equinox, a Chevy pickup truck, and a third SUV.

Petkevich reports that, contrary to some reports, no one was ejected from their vehicle.

At least one person was entrapped. Polk County Fire Rescue PIO Nathaniel Gale confirms that two patients were transported from the scene; a trauma alert patient was transported by air, and a second patient went by ground to the hospital.

The crash, which resulted in significant vehicle damage, remains under investigation.

Burns Ave. was closed to thru traffic overnight between Mammoth Grove Rd. and Buck Moore Rd. for at least three hours.

Lake Wales History Museum Wants To Celebrate the Summer Solstice with You

Maria Iannucci

-

June 20, 2025

0

Lake Wales History Museum Wants To Celebrate the Summer Solstice with You

The Lake Wales History Museum wants to celebrate the longest day of the year with you.

The Summer Solstice is June 20, 2025, but to keep the sunshine going, the Museum is hosting a fun craft all week long. Stop by anytime through June 21st, to create your very own mini sunshine and brighten your day.

The museum is located at 325 S. Scenic Highway in Lake Wales. For more information about the museum, please visit www.lakewaleshistory.com.

In Loving Memory of Lotta Kay Struthers, 72, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

-

June 19, 2025

0

Lotta Kay Struthers, 72

Lotta Kay Struthers of Lake Wales passed away Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at her residence.

She was born June 28, 1952 in Bartow to the late Wilburn and Cloylene Bobbit; she has been a lifelong resident of the area. Lotta was an active member of New Harvest Worship Center. She was the co-owner of Struthers Honey House. She loved being a mom, grandma and great-grandma.

Lotta was preceded in death by her daughter, Melody Eakins in 2016. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Alden Struthers; sons, Thomas “Eddie” Eakins and wife Darla of Lake Wales, Anthony A. Struthers of Lake Wales, Benjamin M. Struthers and wife Rachel of Highland City; brother, Glen Bobbit; 13 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 28, 2025 at New Harvest Worship Center with Rev. Steve Livingston officiating.

A Legacy of Service: Danny Gill Reflects on Nearly 14 Years of Leadership with Lake Wales Charter Schools

Lake Wales

Staff Reporter

-

June 19, 2025

0

A Legacy of Service: Danny Gill Reflects on Nearly 14 Years of Leadership with Lake Wales Charter Schools

Hello Lake Wales Charter Schools Team,

A Journey of Dedication and Growth on the Lake Wales Charter School Board.

As I bring to a close my tenure of 13 years and 9 months on the Lake Wales Charter School Board, I find myself overcome with a mix of emotions—gratitude, pride, and a sense of hope for the future. Serving this community and its schools has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my life, a journey filled with challenges that taught me resilience and triumphs that reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education.

Looking Back: A Legacy of Commitment

When I first joined the Lake Wales Charter School Board nearly 14 years ago, I could not have anticipated the depth and breadth of the journey ahead. From navigating policy changes and addressing community concerns to witnessing the boundless potential of our students, each moment has been a testament to the importance of education as a cornerstone of opportunity. Together, we have worked to ensure that every child in our city has access to an education that not only meets academic standards but also fosters curiosity, creativity, and character.

Milestones and Achievements

Throughout my years of service, I have had the privilege of being part of several significant milestones:

· Working alongside dedicated board members, educators, and families to develop innovative programs that cater to the diverse needs of our students.

· Overseeing the expansion of an additional campus to further educate middle school students that were being turned away allowing us additional opportunities to nurture talents in the classroom.

· Advocating for equitable funding and resources to ensure no school or student is left behind.

· Implementing strategic policies that have strengthened the academic performance of our schools and prepared students for success.

These milestones were a few of many and not achieved alone; they were the result of collective efforts and unwavering support from countless individuals who share a passion for education.

The Challenges That Shaped Us

While the journey has been rewarding, it was not without its challenges. From navigating budget constraints to responding to the ever-evolving needs of our community, we faced moments of uncertainty that required courage and collaboration. Yet, these challenges were also opportunities to innovate, to listen more deeply, and to adapt in ways that ultimately strengthened our schools and community.

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

To my fellow board members, past and present, thank you for your partnership, your wisdom, and your commitment to doing what is best for our students. To the educators and administrators, who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds, your work inspires me beyond words. To the parents and families, thank you for entrusting us with the education of your children. And to the students, who are at the heart of everything we do, you are the reason for every late-night meeting, every difficult decision, and every celebration of success. You are our future, and it has been a privilege to serve you.

Hope for the Future

Though my time on the board has come to an end, my belief in the mission of the Lake Wales Charter Schools remains steadfast. These schools are more than brick-and-mortar buildings—they are the seeds of dreams and the foundation of a thriving community. I am confident that the leaders who follow will continue to build upon what we have achieved, facing new challenges with the same unwavering determination and vision.

As I step away, I do so with the knowledge that our work has made a difference. It is my hope that the next chapter for the Lake Wales Charter School Board will be one of even greater success, innovation, and impact. I will continue to cheer for our schools, our students, and our community, knowing that the best is yet to come.

Serving on the Lake Wales Charter School Board has been an honor and a privilege, one that I will carry with me always. As I close this chapter, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a deep appreciation for the journey we have shared. To the community of Lake Wales: thank you for allowing me to serve. Together, we have built something truly extraordinary, and I am forever grateful to have been a part of it.

Sincerely,

Danny Gill

Chair, Board of Trustees

Lake Wales Charter Schools

A Decision That Changed the Game: How Hannah Rodgers’ Commitment to Florida May Have Altered the Course of Women’s College Softball in the Sunshine State For Years

Kip

-

June 18, 2025

0

A Decision That Changed the Game: How Hannah Rodgers’ Commitment to Florida May Have Altered the Course of Women’s College Softball in the Sunshine State For Years

Winter Haven, FL – On Friday, May 16th, former star athletes from the 2005 Lake Wales Little League World Series championship team gathered at Grove Roots Brewing Co. to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their historic title win. Among the attendees was one of Polk County’s most accomplished athletes—Hannah Rodgers—whose softball journey from Lake Wales to Gainesville reshaped the landscape of women’s college softball in Florida.

Rodgers was the ace of that 2005 Little League team, helping Lake Wales become the first Polk County team to win a Little League World Series. But it was a decision she made just a few years later that may have had the most lasting impact—not just on her career, but on the University of Florida’s softball program and its rivalry with Florida State.

Originally committed to play at Florida State University, Rodgers decommitted when the University of Florida made an offer. Choosing to wear orange and blue instead of garnet and gold, Rodgers went on to have one of the most decorated careers in Gators softball history.

Her presence was felt immediately. As a freshman, Rodgers helped lead Florida to the 2010 Women’s College World Series, earning All-American honors. Over the next few years, she became the face of Florida softball. By 2014, Rodgers delivered one of the most dominant pitching performances in WCWS history, going 7-0 with a 0.64 ERA, and helping the Gators defeat Alabama for their first-ever national championship. She was named Most Outstanding Player of the tournament.

Her success helped elevate the Gators into a national powerhouse. Since Rodgers’ arrival, Florida has consistently ranked among the top softball programs in the nation. Her legacy as a four-time All-American and 2014 SEC Female Athlete of the Year not only brought championships to Gainesville, but also gave Florida an edge in recruiting elite players across the country.

Meanwhile, Florida State continued to field strong teams. The Seminoles made deep postseason runs throughout the 2010s and eventually won their own national title in 2018, proving their place among college softball’s elite. But it’s fair to ask: would that milestone have come sooner if Rodgers had stuck with FSU?

Even today, the decision resonates. Rodgers’ choice to switch schools arguably shifted momentum in the Gators’ favor during a pivotal time for women’s softball in the state. The Gators’ dominance in the early 2010s helped solidify their brand and build a winning culture that continues to attract top-tier talent.

After college, Rodgers went on to pitch professionally for the USSSA Pride, before retiring in 2017. Today, she’s a mother of two and gives private pitching lessons to young players, passing along the skills—and wisdom—that made her a legend on the mound.

From the mound in Lake Wales to the national stage in Oklahoma City, Hannah Rodgers’ journey didn’t just rewrite her own story—it may have rewritten the rivalry between two of Florida’s top programs. And in doing so, she became a key figure in the evolution of women’s college softball in the Sunshine State.

$25,000 in Prizes Up for Grabs During the 2025 Florida Python Challenge™

Florida

carl

-

June 17, 2025

0

$25,000 in Prizes Up for Grabs During the 2025 Florida Python Challenge™

Everglades National Park Now an Official Competition Site

The 2025 Florida Python Challenge™ is just around the corner, and residents across Florida—and beyond—are gearing up to make a difference in the fight against invasive species.

From July 11 through July 20, participants will have ten days to remove as many invasive Burmese pythons as possible from Florida’s environment, particularly in and around the Everglades. This year’s competition comes with a total of $25,000 in prizes, including a $10,000 Ultimate Grand Prize for the individual who removes the most pythons. For the first time, Everglades National Park is officially included as one of eight designated competition areas.

Hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the South Florida Water Management District, the Python Challenge aims to raise awareness about the serious threat Burmese pythons pose to Florida’s native wildlife.

Competitors can win additional cash prizes in categories such as:

Most pythons removed Longest python removed With divisions for novices, professionals, and military members, there are opportunities for a wide range of participants to get involved.

How to Register

Interested participants can register and complete the required online training at FLPythonChallenge.org. The site also includes helpful resources on Burmese pythons, the Everglades ecosystem, and travel planning for the competition.

Year-Round Removal Still Encouraged

Can’t join in July? The FWC reminds Floridians that python removal is allowed year-round on 32 Commission-managed lands. In addition, Burmese pythons can be humanely killed on private property with landowner permission—no permit or hunting license required.

Why It Matters

Burmese pythons are a non-native species that have been wreaking havoc on Florida’s native wildlife, especially in South Florida. These large constrictors prey on birds, mammals, and reptiles, and a single female can lay over 100 eggs in one breeding season. Since 2000, more than 23,000 pythons have been removed from the wild, but the threat remains.

For more information about Burmese pythons and Florida’s ongoing response, visit MyFWC.com/Python.

LAKE WALES DAILY NEWSFAST FACTUAL FREE!

LAKE WALES DAILY NEWSFast-Factual-Free

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

In Loving Memory of Earl Lee Hope, Jr., 90, of Lake Wales

City Of Lake Wales Officially Dedicates New Pollinator Garden, Oakley Park