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
FWC – The Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP) is administered by FWC’s Division of Hunting and Game Management, Alligator Management Program. The FWC contracts with private individuals, nuisance alligator trappers, to remove specific nuisance alligators.
Nuisance alligator trappers are primarily compensated by their marketing and sale of alligator products (hides and meat) from nuisance alligators taken. Trappers also may receive a small expense reimbursement from the FWC for each alligator taken.
Generally, there is not enough work to make nuisance alligator trapping a full-time job, and the income earned from the sale of alligator products may not be enough to support an individual or family. Most nuisance alligator trappers have other sources of income.
People interested in becoming nuisance alligator trappers should:
Be able to supply any equipment necessary to take alligators (truck, boat, snares, hooks, etc).
Have sufficient time to efficiently respond to permits to remove nuisance alligators.
Have a record of adherence to fish and wildlife regulations and have no criminal history.
Possess personal communication capabilities, including a cell phone and email.
Assume personal liability for health, welfare and safety of themselves and their trapping agents.
Project a positive image to the public and media.
To apply for a trapper position, complete the Nuisance Alligator Trapper application. If your contact information changes, you may submit another application with the current information.
The Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program occasionally needs new or additional contracted nuisance alligator trappers. When trappers are needed, applications submitted within the last 12 months for the specific area of need are considered.
Applications on file for longer than 12 months are not generally considered. Please update your application on an annual basis to maintain an active application for consideration should a need arise.
CITY OF LAKE WALES – The PCLC Bookmobile operates in unincorporated Polk County and incorporated cities without public library services. The Polk County Library Cooperative’s mobile branch library serves residents Tuesdays through Saturdays. Scheduled stops will be on the first and third week of each month and the second and fourth week of each month.
Polk County Library Cooperative cards issued at any location will be honored at the PCLC Bookmobile. New memberships will be available on the Bookmobile.
Email [email protected] to be placed on the email reminder list. Questions on Bookmobile rules and policies, scheduling the Bookmobile for special events and general information is also available at [email protected] or 863.678.4004 ext. 2317. Scheduling can be started by filling out the online form here.
The Polk County Library Cooperative (PCLC) is a partnership between the Polk County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Lake Wales and other municipalities in our county. Library membership (PDF) is available to all Polk County property owners and residents.
At approximately 2:41 PM on Monday, June 2, 2025, a traffic collision was reported to Polk County Fire Rescue at 770 Hunt Drive in Lake Wales .
Lt. Dale Hampton at Lake Wales Police Department has confirmed that the crash involved an ATV. The all-terrain vehicle was being test driven by a 16-year-old. The ATV is said to have had a mechanical issue that caused it to flip over.
A singular injured person was transported by air out of an abundance of caution and is listed as a trauma alert. Hampton stated the injuries were non-life-threatening.
Lake Wales, FL – Just months after new date palm trees were planted as part of the downtown Lake Wales Streetscape project, city officials have announced that the trees will be replaced with a more sustainable variety better suited for the area’s long-term needs.
The decision comes after city staff, in coordination with project contractors, determined that the date palms were producing a low soil pH, requiring ongoing monitoring and frequent testing to maintain healthy conditions. This process, according to officials, results in a recurring cost of roughly $4,000 per year—funds that could be more effectively allocated elsewhere within the beautification effort.
In place of the date palms, crews will be planting Livistona nitida palms, commonly known as Ribbon Fan Palms. This species is known for being more tolerant to the local soil composition and weather conditions, reducing the need for intensive maintenance and testing.
In a written statement to the Lake Wales Daily it appears that this is a step forward in reality rather than a step backward.
Gomez Construction, the lead contractor on the Streetscape project, is assisting with covering a portion of the replacement work to help offset costs. City planners conducted a cost-benefit analysis, which strongly supported the transition. Not only are Livistona nitida palms more resilient, but they also offer long-term savings and reduced environmental stress.
Even though we don’t have a schedule from the city we would expect the new trees to be planted in the coming weeks as part of ongoing enhancements to the downtown area.
While the 2025 hurricane season only began yesterday, June 1, there is already a potential storm in the works. In this particular case, the forecast calls for this system to move towards the northeast away from Florida. The following update was provided by the National Hurricane Center:
Tropical Weather Outlook NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL 200 PM EDT Mon Jun 2 2025
For the North Atlantic…Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of America:
Offshore of the Southeastern U.S. Coast A non-tropical area of low pressure is forecast to form near or offshore of the southeastern U.S. coast during the next couple of days. If the system remains offshore, the low could gradually develop some subtropical or tropical characteristics later this week while moving northeastward at 10 to 15 mph.
Formation chance through 48 hours…low…near 0 percent.
BOK TOWER GARDENS – Come dressed in your fairy best as Bok Tower Gardens presents a summer Fairy Festival like none other! This magical day is perfect for fairies and fauns of all ages, with activities and entertainment throughout the Gardens.
See a fairy godmother take flight from the Singing Tower as she dances amongst the trees, meet fantastical fairies and awesome animals, discover hidden Fairy Doors, and delight your senses with art, music, and plenty of bubbles!
Event Date & Time
Saturday, June 14, 2025 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location
Bok Tower Gardens
Price
Free for members / $20 for non-member adults / $10 for non-member children ages 6-17 (Includes admission for the day) Free for children 5 and under. Activities are included in general admission – some activities are available while supplies last Purchase General Admission Now
Schedule of Events
Hammock Hollow Fairy Door Hunt Hammock Hollow 9 am – 4 pm
Fantasy Temporary Tattoo Station Visitor Center 9 am – 2 pm
Fairies in Training Hammock Hollow Sabal Stage 9 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.: Morning Stretches with Buffy 10 a.m.- 10:30 a.m. Story and Musical Play 11 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Story and Musical Play
Bring your little ones and join Hammock Hollow Fairy Queen Buffy as she takes the stage in Hammock Hollow. Begin your fairies in training session with morning stretches from 9-9:30am. There will also be a story and musical play from 10-10:30am and again at 11-11:30am. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to spend time with Buffy in Hammock Hollow as she meanders through the garden, communing with Mother Nature’s creatures. This program is perfect for children of all ages!
Fairy Crown Making (While Supplies Last) Outdoor Kitchen 10 am – 12 pm Make a beautiful fresh flower crown perfect for fairies and fauns of all ages. Activity is free but space and supplies are limited.
Fairy Godmother Fly-In and Aerial Artistry The Singing Tower 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm
Fairy Meet and Greet with Dreams Come True Entertainment Hammock Hollow Fairy Garden 10 am – 2 pm
Fairy Meet and Greet with Circus Arts Place Singing Tower and Great Lawn 10 am – 2 pm
Awesome Animal Encounters Visitor Center Theater 11 am – 1 pm
Bubble Fun East Glade (Olmsted Gardens) 11 am – 1 pm
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.
