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 Paul Joseph Och Jr., 82

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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January 22, 2025

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In Loving Memory of Paul Joseph Och Jr., 82

Paul Joseph Och Jr ,age 82, of Florida passed away with his family by his side, following his battle with dementia, on Tuesday, January 21st. He is survived by his children Thomas and wife Becky of Florida and Patricia and Thomas Welsh of Bethel Park, brothers Robert and wife Kathleen, and William, his brother in law Glenn Pfeil, several nieces and nephews, and two grandchildren.

Paul was predeceased by his wife Kathleen “Candy”, his parents Paul and Magdalena, brother James and sister Barbara.

Paul grew up on Mt. Washington and raised his family in Whitehall. He was a devoted father and grandfather.. He was employed with Giant Eagle for many years. He was a member of Saint Gabriel’s Catholic Church.

The family is grieving in private and will have no public services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Our Lady of Hope (St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Virgin) Catholic Church or Alzheimer’s Association at Alzheimers.org. Interment will be at St. Casimir, Whitehall PA.

In Loving Memory of Elizabeth Ann Mann, 95, of Lake Wales

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January 22, 2025

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Elizabeth Ann Mann, 95

Ann T. Mann of Lake Wales passed away Monday, January 20, 2025, at Advent Health Lake Wales.

Ann was born December 6, 1929, in Fort Mill, South Carolina, to Joseph Bee Templeton and Sara McCarley Templeton. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree at Erskine College and went on to complete her Master of Sciences and Arts at the University of South Florida.

Ann was a retired teacher and administrator. She taught second grade at Polk Avenue Elementary. At McLaughlin Middle School, she taught seventh grade science and also served as the Assistant Principal.

Ann was a member of The First Presbyterian Church of Lake Wales. She served as a Sunday School teacher, became the first female Deacon of the church, and was very active in local and Presbyterial Women of the Church.

She was a former member of the Lake Wales Women’s Club. She enjoyed fellowship with long-time friends, playing card games, especially Bridge, and was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society.

Ann is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Donald L. Mann; and sister, Miriam McLendon. She is survived by her daughter, Martha Mann McKenzie of Lakeland; and son, Don L. Mann, and wife Shelby, of Vernon, Alabama; Grandchildren, Joe McKenzie (Mandie), Jennifer Pruitt (Jacob), Michael Mann (Yanelin), Kathryn Davis (Houston); great-grandchildren, Alyssa Mann, Sara Mann, Julie Mann, Owen McKenzie, Jackson Pruitt, McKenzie Davis, Ella McKenzie, Joshua Pruitt, Clay Davis, and Emma Grace Davis; nieces, Anne Campbell (Jeff), and Kathryn Edmunds (Michael) and nephew, Stephen McLendon (Sheila).

Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Wales with Reverend Mackay Smith officiating. Ann requested in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the college of your choice.

In Loving Memory of Ruth Ann Foster, 73, of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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January 22, 2025

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Ruth Ann Foster, 73

Ruth Ann Foster of Lake Wales passed away Monday, January 20, 2025 at home.

She was born March 23, 1951 in Big Spring, Texas to the late Jesse and Dora Mendoza. Ruth Ann was a retired teacher for the Houston School System and the Hillsborough County School District. She was an upbeat member of First Baptist Church of Plant City and Lake Wales where she loved to share her faith with others. Ruth Ann enjoyed reading, attending bible studies, singing, making jewelry and gardening. She loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Ruth Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Ray Foster. She is survived by her daughter, Kaitlyn Boston (Daniel) of Lithia; sister, Dora Mendoza of Lake Wales; and grandchildren, Kali Boston, Cheyenne Boston, and Avery Boston.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at First Baptist Church of Lake Wales. Flowers can be sent to First Baptist Church of Lake Wales (305 E Tillman Avenue, Lake Wales, Florida 33853).

Hwy. 60 Lake Wales Crash Temporarily Shuts Down Roadway

Maria Iannucci

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January 22, 2025

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Hwy. 60 Lake Wales Crash Temporarily Shuts Down Roadway

At approximately 6:37 PM on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, a traffic collision was reported to Polk County Fire Rescue near the intersection of Highway 60 W. and Mammoth Grove Road in Lake Wales.

From our location, only one vehicle was visible; the vehicle had heavy damage and was in an unlit area of the highway.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer, Carrie Horstman, says that the westbound lanes of Hwy. 60 were temporarily shut down, but are now open to traffic.

Polk County Fire Rescue PIO, Nathaniel Gale, says that an individual had to be extricated from a vehicle, and was transported by ground to a hospital.

This article will be updated if additional information becomes available from law-enforcement.

SILVER ALERT: 90-Year-Old Man with Dementia Missing

Polk County

Maria Iannucci

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January 22, 2025

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SILVER ALERT

PCSO: The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is issuing a Silver Alert for missing and endangered 90-year-old Ronald James Riggleman, of Lake Eaglebrooke Way in Lakeland.

He was last seen at 10:53 a.m. this morning (January 22nd) leaving the area of US Hwy 98 South and Innovation Drive, heading south on 98 in his silver Kia Soul with a Florida U.S. Marine Corps specialty tag RJ825.

Mr. Riggleman is 6′ tall with gray hair and brown eyes. He was wearing blue jeans and a dark blue jacket. He suffers from dementia.

If you see Ronald Riggleman, please contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 863-298-6200. Thank you!

Cooking on the Ridge: Lemon Cucumber Mint Ginger Detox Water

Cooking

Maria Iannucci

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January 22, 2025

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Cooking on the Ridge: Lemon Cucumber Mint Ginger Detox Water

by James Coulter

It’s a new year. You know what that means? New year’s resolutions!

This year, my resolution is to cut back on soft drinks and fast food. I’m not going to cut all of that completely out of my diet, but I want to drink less soda and eat less fast food than what I’m currently accustom to.

However, for January, I have decided to go cold turkey on soft drinks and fast food–at least for this month. Otherwise, I’mstrictly eating food prepared at home and drinking nothing but water.

Well, I’m not simply drinking water. I’m drinking detox water made with lemon, cucumber, ginger, and mint. Not only does it taste better than plain water, but it also provides better benefits and nutrients.

Lemons and cucumbers contain water, which help aid in hydration. Ginger and mint can reduce inflammation. Lemon and ginger may boost metabolism. And ginger can help soothe digestion to help reduce bloating and indigestion.

I didn’t tell anyone I had given up soft drinks for water. However, one week after starting my diet, a family member told me that I looked slimmer and less bloated. So, it seems to be doing it’s job.

If you want to start off with a healthier new year, give this detox water. It’s much more refreshing and rejuvenating than carbonated drinks, and best of all, it has no empty calories.

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Lemon Cucumber Mint Ginger Detox Water

3 lemons, sliced

1 cucumber, sliced

2 tablespoons grated ginger

1 bunch mint leaves

1. Rinse ingredients and place into a large pitcher. Fill pitcher with water. Stir until well mixed. Add a few squeezes of lemon or lime juice for added flavor.

2. Drink as desired. Refill when pitcher gets near empty. Add lemon juice as desired. Contents should be good for a week in refrigerator.

City of Lake Wales Announces Key Information About Upcoming Mayoral Election

City of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci

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January 22, 2025

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City of Lake Wales Announces Key Information About Upcoming Mayoral Election

As January will shortly draw to a close, it’s time to remind the residents of the City of Lake Wales of the upcoming mayoral election, which will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

Individuals looking to run as a candidate for this elected position may obtain informational packets beginning January 31, 2025.

Below is a release of election information, recently published on the City of Lake Wales Facebook page. It outlines the dates of importance and other guidelines with regard to the upcoming election:

NOTICE OF COMMISSION ELECTION CITY OF LAKE WALES, FLORIDA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION FOR THE CITY OF LAKE WALES WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2025 TO ELECT A MAYOR FOR SEAT 1 (AT-LARGE) ON THE CITY COMMISSION.

THE REGULAR ELECTION OF CITY COMMISSION MEMBERS SHALL BE HELD IN THE MANNER PROVIDED IN THE CITY CHARTER AND THE LAKE WALES MUNICIPAL ELECTION CODE. THE PERSON ELECTED FOR SEAT 1 SHALL SERVE A TERM OF THREE (3) YEARS.

QUALIFYING PERIOD The period to qualify for election to Seat 1 begins at 12:00 noon, Monday, February 10, 2025 and ends at 12:00 noon, Friday, February 14, 2025 in the City Clerk’s Office at the City Administration Building, 201 W. Central Ave, Lake Wales. Candidate packets will be available in the City Clerk’s Office beginning 9:00 a.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025.

PROCEDURE FOR QUALIFYING QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE Members of the City Commission must be registered voters and a resident of the City of Lake Wales for at least one year preceding their date of election. The Mayor elected to Seat 1 must reside within City limits.

CAMPAIGN FINANCES Any candidate seeking to qualify for election must appoint a campaign treasurer and designate a campaign depository on or before the date obtaining petition signatures. Petition signatures obtained prior to this date will be disqualified. All Forms will be furnished by the City Clerk.

PETITIONS Candidates for election to the City Commission must be nominated by petition. Any registered voter of the district shall be nominated for election by petition designating the commission seat to which they seek election. Each candidate must obtain 25 qualified signatures from registered voters nominating them to the seat. Official petitions are furnished by the City Clerk.

Read on: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7586/2025-Election-Notice-English_202412231341583446

For additional information, please contact City Clerk Jennifer Nanek at 863-678-4182, ext. 1254 or in person at 201 West Central Avenue, Lake Wales, FL 33853.

In Loving Memory of Edwin Morris Friedlander, 93, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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January 21, 2025

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In Loving Memory of Edwin Morris Friedlander, 93, of Lake Wales

Edwin Morris Friedlander, 93, of Lake Wales, Florida, passed away peacefully in his home on January 19, 2025. Edwin was born on July 13, 1931, at Lake Wales Hospital to Harry and Celia Friedlander. He graduated from Lake Wales High School in 1948 and the University of Florida in 1952. He enlisted in the US Army upon graduation from UF and went on to serve his county in Korea before returning home to Lake Wales.

Edwin’s lifelong contributions to this community are remarkable and have left an indelible impact. He served on countless boards and volunteered across the county with the Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, Lake Wales Hospital, Boy Scouts, where he was an Eagle Scout, and many other organizations. Edwin was also known in the community for his Five and Dime in downtown Lake Wales that was a fixture for decades. He loved visiting with people, both new and old friends. He was a lifelong Florida citrus grower and rancher who worked hard to preserve the way of life and landscape he inherited from his father. Edwin was recognized as the Lake Wales Citizen of the Year and later as Pioneer of the Year for his many accomplishments. Edwin never met a stranger and was known for his kindness, curiosity, and wit. He was an avid Gator fan who was rarely seen not wearing something orange and blue.

Through all Edwin accomplished in his life, he would say it was the relationships that meant the most to him. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Kathy, who faithfully cared for and supported him. Edwin was a proud father of Randy (Julie) of Columbus, OH, Doug (Anne) of Atlanta, GA, Allen of Winter Haven, FL, Carolyn (Bobby) of Lake Wales, FL, and Laurie (Keith) of Alachua, FL. He was preceded in death by a son, Marty. Edwin is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and countless more whom he considered family.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 22 from 6:00-8:00pm at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales and a graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 23 at 11:00 am at Oak Hill Burial Park in Lakeland.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Bok Tower Gardens or the Marfan Foundation.

Edwin will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His legacy of service, kindness, and dedication to his community will continue through the many he touched.

Accident on 60 in West Lake Wales Causing Delays

Maria Iannucci

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January 21, 2025

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Accident on 60 in West Lake Wales Causing Delays

At approximately 3:33 PM, on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, a traffic collision was reported at Highway 60 W. and W. Lake Wales Rd. North in Lake Wales.

There is one vehicle at the scene showing damage, and law-enforcement is present. There is a backup of traffic, headed west on Highway 60, but no lanes are blocked.

Please proceed with caution as you are driving through this area and expect a short delay.

Party Like The 1840s at the Alafia River Rendezvous This Weekend Near Bartow

Events

Maria Iannucci

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January 21, 2025

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Party Like The 1840s at the Alafia River Rendezvous This Weekend Near Bartow

by James Coulter

Get ready to party like it’s the 40s. The 1840s! Come to Alafia River Rendezvous this weekend in Homeland (near Bartow) and check out how life was like for pioneers in the good old days.

Hosted by the Florida Frontiersmen, the Alafia River Rendezvous is the largest pre-1840 living history encampment in the Southeast U.S.

More than 1,000 historical reenactors, including adults and children, congregate in the Florida Wilderness to set up camp and live the life of pioneers in pre-1840s America.

Come see blacksmiths craft tools and weapons from red-hot, bakers bake homemade bread and other pastries from clay ovens, and woodworks make brooms and other household items from hay and wood.

Greg Fulbright, President of the Florida Frontiersmen, has been attending the Alafia River Rendezvous with his wife for nearly 30 years. Being able to recreate the life of the good old days has been quite the experience.

Every year, the Rendezvous draws in hundreds of children from local schools and scout troops. Greg mentions how many of the children really enjoy being able to experience living history, to the point where they prefer it to other local attractions.

“The kids really love it,” he said. “They write us letters every year saying they’d rather come here than go to Disney World.”

The Alafia River Rendezvous will be hosted on Fri., Jan. 24 and Sat., Jan. 25, 2025 from 9 AM to 3 PM. The event will be hosted at 1000 Old. Ft. Meade Rd. in Homeland, FL, six miles south of Bartow off of Highway 98 & CR 640.

Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for children under 15 and veterans, and free for children under 4. For more information, visit their website at AlafiaRiverRendevous.org

Greg Fulbright recently appeared on our newest episode of the Chattin on the Ridge podcast. Give it a listen on Acast: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-51-alafia-river-rendezvous-wgreg-fullbright

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