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
The City of Lake Wales has narrowed its selection of potential developers for the Historic Walesbilt Hotel restoration to two applicants.
At their meeting on Tues. Aug 12, 2025, Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) board members voted unanimously to approve the pre-qualified shortlist of firms to two redevelopment firms.
The CRA had advertised a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for potential developers to assist with the restoration of the city’s Historic Walesbilt Hotel, located in Downtown Lake Wales.
Since then, the CRA has received four responses. Out of those four, “two firms exceeded the minimum threshold score of 80 to be eligible for inclusion on the pre-qualified shortlist of firms,” wrote City Manager James Slaton.
These two firms were Restoration St. Louis/REG architects, which led “with an average score of 96.8 out of 100”, and Blackmon & Andoniades Families, which ranked second “with an average score of 93.4 out of 100.”
Located at 5 W Park Avenue, the Dixie Walesbilt Hotel is a 10-story skyscraper built in 1926. The building operated as a hotel until its closure in 1995. The hotel was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on August 31, 1990.
The City of Lake Wales has since regained ownership of the hotel after winning a lawsuit against its former owner earlier this year. The City now plans to restore it to its original grandeur, and selecting a firm to assist with redevelopment is part of that process.
Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson suggested shortening the request for proposals by foregoing all other “formalities” except for the public presentations.
“I am not interested in putting them to all of that because it is time, effort, and money, [and] I would rather them see put time, effort, and money into the hotel,” Gibson said. “I think we are in an excellent position. I am just thrilled at the prospect of this. This [redevelopment] is imminent. This is [finally] going to happen.”
Furthermore, Gibson requested that city staff reexamine the CRA plan and double-check to ensure it authorizes the project’s full scope.
“Now that we know the scope of this project, I want the city attorney to take a very critical look at our CRA plan and make dadgum sure that these things are authorized by this plan,” he said. “We can amend the plan, but I do not want to be halfway through and have our lawyers come up [and say] we cannot do that.”
A motion was made and seconded to approve the selection of the two firms and to shorten the request for proposal to public presentations, and the motion passed with a unanimous vote.
Sharon Allen went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 17, 2025. She was 80. Her ready smile and ever-present sense of humor continuously brightened the lives of those she came in contact with.
Sharon was born December 15, 1944 in Crawfordsville, Indiana to the late Lawrence and Della Weir; she moved to Lake Wales from New York in 1992. Sharon graduated Crawfordsville High School in Indiana, then went on to Perdue University where she earned her Bachelors Degree in Psychology.
Sharon was a vibrant servant of Our Lord. Within the Church of the Good Shepherd, she sang in the choir, was a member of the Daughters of the King, helped lead the backpack feeding ministry to homeless and other Polk Avenue Elementary students at risk of hunger on weekends, organized a school supply drive for Polk Avenue, volunteered at the Thrift Shop, and cheerfully shepherded second graders through Vacation Bible School each summer.
In our community, she was active with the Lake Wales Chorale, the American Association of University Women, the Polk County Democrats and, with her husband Fred, helped the Audubon Society’s annual EagleWatch, counting baby eagles each year at Kissimmee State Park. Sharon and Fred were member of the Lakeland Running Club, they were also active in the Lakeland bird Club, where Sharon was in charge of their annual bird count for Lake Wales, and members of the West Coast Couples Bass Club.
Sharon is survived by her husband of 15 years, Fred Allen; son, David O’Gorman of Cambodia; stepdaughters, Pam Henderson and husband Joe of Ashville, North Caroling, Kim Tice and husband Jeff of Phoenix, Arizona, Stephanie Leaver of Tampa and Melissa Leaver of Tampa; and step-granddaughters, Leah and Lia.
We will celebrate her life and risen life in Christ at 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 8, 2025 at Church of the Good Shepherd. For those who wish, memorial donations in her honor can be sent to Ridge Audubon (200 North Crooked Lake Drive, Babson Park, Florida 33827) or Lake Wales Chorale (PO Box 608, Lake Wales, FL 33853). Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.
The Lake Wales Municipal Airport will soon be able to replace its weather reporting equipment and rotating beacon now that the city commission has authorized an agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
At their regular meeting on Tues. Aug. 19, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioner voted unanimously to approve a resolution to authorize an agreement with the FFA to provide funding for new equipment at the city’s airport.
The funding will go toward the replacement of the airport’s existing Weather Reporting Equipment (AWOS) and Rotating Beacon with upgraded equipment.
“Our current AWOS is in constant need of repair, and our Beacon is very outdated,” wrote Airport Director Amanda Lomneck. “The new Beacon will allow for easier and safer ways to replace parts. The new AWOS-II will provide more accurate and up-to-date weather information for pilots.”
The project will be funded 95 percent by the FAA through an Airport Improvement Grant awarded to the city. The remaining 5 percent will be funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).
Marilyn Feltham of River Ranch passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at Waters Edge.
She was born August 13, 1944 in Benkelman, Nebraska to the late Alvin and Irene Kehlbeck; she has been in the area for 25 years, first as a winter resident then permanently. Marilyn had the heart of a traveler. She was a manager for Trans World Airlines and was able to travel all over the world. Marilyn often welcomed people into her home and was the epitome of “hostess with the mostess”; she loved to put together parties, dinners, and entertain guests whenever possible.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her brothers, Don Kehlbeck and Ronnie Kehlbeck. She is survived by her husband of 25 years George Everett Feltham; sons, Doug Shull of Saint Louis, Missouri, Roger Shull and wife Lisa of Saint Louis, Missouri; step-daughter, Betty Pearce of Chandler, Arizona, Karen Duncklee of Ocala; step-sons, Don Feltham and wife Doris of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Glen Feltham and wife Rebecca of Walworth, Wisconsin; many grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at a later date at the River Ranch Chapel. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.
Today, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and partners announced the final results and winners of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge™. During this year’s 10-day competition, 934 participants from 30 states and Canada helped support Everglades conservation by collectively removing a record 294 invasive Burmese pythons from south Florida.
The intent of the Florida Python Challenge is to increase awareness about invasive species and the threats they pose to Florida’s ecology, while offering the public a way to get directly involved in Everglades conservation through removal of invasive Burmese pythons. This year’s event included the exciting addition of Everglades National Park as one of eight official competition locations.
“The 2025 Florida Python Challenge can go in the books as a success thanks to the hard work of staff, generous support from our partners, continued leadership of Governor DeSantis and involvement of the many competitors in this year’s event,” said Rodney Barreto, FWC Chairman. “The record number of invasive pythons removed from the Everglades during this year’s competition is a big win for native wildlife. With over 1,400 pythons removed during all Florida Python Challenge events to date and over 16,000 pythons removed by FWC and South Florida Water Management District contractors since 2017, collective efforts are the key to continue addressing the threats Burmese pythons pose to Florida’s native wildlife and ecosystems.”
“Congratulations to all of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge winners! Every invasive python that is removed makes a difference for Florida’s environment and its native wildlife,” said South Florida Water Management District Governing Board Member “Alligator Ron” Bergeron. “Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida has taken unprecedented steps to remove invasive pythons, protect our natural resources and conserve native wildlife. The great partnership between the South Florida Water Management District and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is critical as we continue to work together to protect this national treasure for generations to come. I also want to thank our incredible staff and all of our partners for your hard work and dedication to this effort. Long live the Everglades!”
The winners of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge were announced at the FWC’s Commission Meeting held in Havana, Florida. The Ultimate Grand Prize winner was Taylor Stanberry, who removed 60 Burmese pythons, winning $10,000. More information on winners and prizes for longest pythons and most pythons removed in the novice, professional and military categories, is detailed below.
“We applaud the dedication displayed by all participants in this year’s Florida Python Challenge” said Pedro Ramos, superintendent of Everglades National Park. “The record number of pythons removed highlights the importance of citizen engagement as we tackle one of the toughest conservation challenges of our time, invasive exotic species of animals and plants. By collaborating closely with our partners at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the South Florida Water Management District, we are making meaningful progress toward preserving the Everglades and its diverse wildlife for generations to come.”
“We are very grateful to our partners, sponsors, Governor DeSantis, the Florida Fish & Wildlife Foundation, and the over 900 registered participants for helping make the 2025 Florida Python Challenge a success,” said Roger Young, FWC Executive Director. “We could not have done this without the continued support and much-appreciated collaboration with our partners at the South Florida Water Management District and the National Park Service. This year’s significant addition of Everglades National Park as one of our official Python Challenge competition locations provided an exciting new opportunity for competitors while helping to boost public awareness about invasive Burmese pythons and how people can help.”
Most Pythons Prize $2,500: Krista Hoekstra- 14 pythons
Most Pythons Runner-Up Prize $1,500: Kymberly Clark – 7 pythons
Longest Python Prize $1,000: Michael Marousky.- 15 feet, 11 inches
MILITARY – Active Duty and Veteran
Most Pythons Prize $2,500: John Southworth – US Army – 5 pythons
Most Pythons Runner-Up Prize $1,500: Matthew Jamison – US Air Force – 3 pythons
Longest Python Prize $1,000: Jonathan Miller – US Air Force- 11 feet, 2 inches
Burmese pythons are not native to Florida and negatively impact native species. They are found primarily in and around the Everglades ecosystem in south Florida, where they prey on birds, mammals and other reptiles. A female Burmese python can lay 50 to 100 eggs at a time. Since the year 2000, more than 23,000 wild Burmese pythons have been removed from the state of Florida and reported to the FWC.
In addition to the Florida Python Challenge, there are other ways people can continue to help control nonnative species such as Burmese pythons. Anyone may remove and humanely kill pythons and other nonnative reptiles at any time on private lands with landowner permission and on 32 FWC-managed lands throughout south Florida.
The public can also help control invasive species by reporting nonnative snakes, tegus and monitor lizards to the FWC’s Invasive Species Hotline at 888-IVE-GOT1 (888-483-4681), and by reporting sightings of other nonnative fish and wildlife online at IveGot1.org or by downloading the free IveGot1 smartphone app. For more information, visit MyFWC.com/Nonnatives.
The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the FWC and other public and private partners to conserve Florida’s native animals and plants and the lands and waters they need to survive. Since its founding in 1994, the Foundation has raised and donated nearly $100 million to conservation and outdoor recreation and education. More information can be found at WildlifeFlorida.org.
A serious traffic accident was reported at 2:21 PM on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Two vehicles have collided near the intersection of Burns Avenue and Tower Boulevard resulting in injuries.
Lake Wales Police Department, public information officer, Lt. Dale Hampton, as confirmed that two patients are being air lifted from the scene. Both are listed as trauma alerts.
Hampton has confirmed that a gray truck and a red van are the vehicles involved. No further details are available at this time.
Burns Avenue is closed in both directions at Tower Boulevard. Please find an alternate route.
Wawa and Bok Tower Gardens are teaming up again to offer Wawa Summer Fun Days featuring complimentary admission on the last Thursday and Friday of the month, August 28-29, 2025.
The partnership between Wawa and Bok Tower Gardens began in 2021 with the launch of Wawa Summer Fun Days and has continued due to popular demand each summer since then.
This complimentary offer is limited to four visitors per registration, and admission for the day is limited to assist with capacity issues. All members of the party visiting on Wawa Summer Fun Days will need to have a ticket to enter.
Pick up your “Where’s Wally” seek-and-find sheet for a chance to find Wawa’s official mascot, Wally, at many different garden areas.
New sidewalks, park trails, playgrounds, and resurfaced streets. These are some of the proposed projects for next fiscal year’s budget to help the City of Lake Wales further implement its award-winning Lake Wales Connected plan.
At their workshop on Wed., Aug 14, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners were given a presentation by the city’s finance department of the draft for next fiscal year’s budget.
Finance Director Dorothy Abbott and City Manager James Slatton offered several highlights of the proposed project within the city budget. Some notable highlights include:
• Several streetscape projects, including resurfaced city streets (estimated at $750,000), new sidewalks in the Northwest Neighborhood, narrower roadways for 1st Street and A Street, and miscellaneous streetscaping for Lincoln Avenue, Orange Avenue, and Crystal Avenue.
• $350,000 for the Legacy Housing Rehabilitation Program to help 10 homeowners with exterior improvements, and $500,000 for the Code Enforcement Program “to help homeowners address safety issues with their properties.”
• Expansion of the north fire station, construction of a new south fire station at Hunt Brothers Road, and the procurement of a new frontline fire engine and rescue truck.
• Renovations to the city’s sewer and water system, including $1,650,000 for water main extensions, $600,000 for water plant #1 building rehabilitation, $200,000 for water plant #3 Building improvements, and $10,000,000 for construction of various wastewater plant upgrades.
• Improvements to local parks, including a portion of the Ridge Scenic Highway Connector trail, construction of the Crystal Lake Park North Trail segment, $400,000 for the completion of the athletic field lighting at the soccer complex, and $1,550,000 for the design, surveying and construction of a multi-modal trail, a new playground, new pavilions, and other amenities at Kiwanis Park.
Many of these projects were proposed to help the City of Lake Wales further implement its award-winning Lake Wales Connected plan. As the city’s website states, Lake Wales Connected is “a strategy for revitalization of Lake Wales’ historic downtown and one of its most important adjacent neighborhoods.”
Finance Director Abbott expressed her relief in reaching this part of the process with the city’s budget. She claimed this year’s budget was “the hardest budget we have had in years.”
On a positive note, she mentioned how the city has experienced significant economic growth and development in recent years, which has subsequently led to greater growth in the city’s government. “We are in a growth period where the city is growing so fast,” she said. “Each year, the city’s budget keeps growing, which is a testimony that the city is growing. I am seeing growth in every department. All departments are turning in projects of a size that we have not seen because the city is growing.”
City Manager Slaton mentioned that the process of crafting the city’s budget has proven to be “tough”, yet all his staff’s hard work and effort have allowed them to craft a budget “that I feel has met what the city commission [have] asked of us.”
Commissioner Keith Thompson noted the overall difficulty the city has endured in crafting its budget, and he claimed the city could very well face even more difficulty in the near future.
“‘Comfort’ is not going to be a word we use up here to describe the budget,” he said. “I think the word will be ‘tolerate.'”
Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson asked if there was a way for the city to incentivize infill within the city limits and disincentivize developers who would otherwise “chew up the countryside.”
Slaton mentioned how the city had some incentives, including the ability to waive impact fees within core development areas. Gibson suggested a comprehensive study to evaluate water and sewer infrastructure within the city limits.
“I would like for us to move ahead, it might take a year, to comprehensively evaluate where we are with water and sewer,” he said. “That would be a wonderful goal to offer water and sewer, where that is not the case in the countryside.”
At approximately 8:12 this morning on Monday, August 18, 2025, a traffic collision was reported near 2217 Mammoth Grove Rd. in Lake Wales. Initial information states that a 13 year-old female was struck by a vehicle.
Lake Wales Police Department Public Information Officer, Lt. Dale Hampton, has confirmed this information. The patient is being airlifted by helicopter to a hospital with “non-life-threatening injuries”. The patient is a trauma alert, and is being flown as a precaution at this time.
The vehicle involved in the collision is a 2023 Chevrolet Colorado. No information is yet available on how the crash occurred or who has been involved.
Lake Wales Daily has requested additional information from law-enforcement. This is an active scene; please avoid Mammoth Grove Road west of Masterpiece Rd. (Adjacent to the mine) in this area as the road is closed in both directions.
This is an ongoing investigation. The story will be updated when further details are available.
LAKE WALES – City staff in the public works division were recognized with two state awards for best practices in water and wastewater operations, according to a press release from City of Lake Wales:
The Florida Rural Water Association (FRWA) recognized staff with the FRWA Small Public Water System of the Year Award for their outstanding service to their customers and accomplishments in 2025.
“It’s a priority to us that we consistently practice efficient water management,” Holly Brit, utilities operations manager said.
Continuing the winning streak, Doug Riesenback, systems technician was awarded the Florida Water & Pollution Control Operators Association’s Raymond Bordner Award. Riesenback was recognized for his tenure with the City of Lake Wales, and his outstanding personal performance and high level of skill in the operation and maintenance of water systems operations.
“Both awards are a nice complement to the work we do, especially while we’re in the process of replacing the aging headworks at our wastewater facility which was installed 30 years ago,” Sarah Kirkland, director of public works said.
The new headworks is projected to increase efficiency by about 25%.
