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

Staff Reporter
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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

New Items Added to Permanent Florida State Sales Tax Exemption List

Maria Iannucci
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New Items Added to Permanent Florida State Sales Tax Exemption List

The Florida Department of Revenue has added several items for new Sales Tax Exemptions beginning August 1, 2025.

According to the Florida Department of Revenue’s website, effective August 1, 2025, the following items that have been temporarily exempted during past tax holidays, will now be permanently exempt:

Batteries – only sizes specified, including AAA-cell, AA-cell, C-cell, D-cell, 6-volt, and 9-volt.

Bicycle helmets – While youth bicycle helmets were previously exempt from sales tax, all bicycle helmets are exempt beginning, August 1, 2025.

Carbon monoxide alarms – As defined in the Florida statutes, carbon monoxide alarms are defined as a device that is meant for the purpose of detecting carbon monoxide, that produces a distinct, audible alarm, and that meets the requirements of it is approved by the Florida Building Commission.

Fire Extinguishers – As defined by the Florida statutes, a fire extinguisher means a cylinder that is portable and can be carried or is on wheels, is manually operated, and may use a number of extinguishing agents that are expelled under pressure, as well as a few additional specifics.

Groundhog anchor systems and tie-down kits

Insect repellent – These are products registered by the US Environmental Protection Agency which are designed to deter insects and are intended for application to a person’s skin.

Life jackets – Personal flotation devices approved by the US Coast guard, intended to be worn by a person.

Portable gas cans – portable gas or diesel fuel cans with a capacity of 5 gallons or less. These are commonly used for tasks, such as transporting fuel, for landscaping reasons, or to fuel generator.

Portable generators – Defined as a portable engine, driven generator capable of producing 10,000 running watts or less.

Smoke detection devices – Smoke detection devices may be electrical or battery operated, detect visible or invisible particles of combustion, and are commonly found in the home.

Sunscreen – Excludes cosmetics, or other products, that are not primarily intended to absorb, reflect or scatter ultraviolet radiation.

Waterproof tarpaulins -These are flexible, waterproof tarps, and sheeting that are 1000 ft.² or less.

For more information, visit floridarevenue.com.

Florida State Parks Foundation Launches New Membership Program

Maria Iannucci
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Florida State Parks Foundation Launches New Membership Program

The Florida State Parks Foundation has announced a “years-in-the-making” update to its membership program, according to a recent communication from the group.

The Foundation wants to see its parks “preserved, protected, sustained and grown for all time.”

According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, there are 175 Florida State Parks, trails, and historic sites; these are managed by the Florida Park Service.

These properties encompass over 800,000 acres and include a variety of natural and cultural resources. 

The new program has established new tiers and membership benefits, which are listed as follows:

Become a member!


As Florida State Parks Foundation member, you:

  • Maintain Florida’s award-winning 175 state parks and trails.
  • Preserve incredible beaches, magnificent wetlands and historic sites.
  • Support wildlife in the parks.
  • Increase accessibility across parks and trails.
  • Educate visitors about the value of state parks.
  • Encourage community engagement.
  • Provide financial support to supplement state funding.

All membership levels receive complimentary Florida State Parks day passes and a new Florida State Parks 2025 Member magnet.

  • Adventurer – $50
    • Three Florida State Parks day passes, Florida State Parks membership magnet, Florida State Parks panther sticker.
  • Sandhill Crane – $100
    • Six Florida State Parks day-passes, all “Adventurer” benefits, plus Florida State Parks Jelly Press fabric sticker.
  • Torreya – $250 
    • Nine Florida State Parks day-passes, all “Adventurer” and “Sandhill Crane” benefits, plus FSPF x Freehand Goods sticker pack.
  • Longleaf Pine – $500
    • Twelve Florida State Parks day-passes, all “Adventurer,” “Sandhill Crane,” and “Torreya” benefits, plus Florida State Parks Jelly Press tote bag.
  • Sabal Palm – $1,000
    • Twelve Florida State Parks day-passes, all “Adventurer,” “Sandhill Crane,” “Torreya”​​​​ and “Longleaf Pine” benefits, plus Florida State Parks Jelly Press ornament and special donor recognition on FSPF website.
  • Cypress – $2,500
    • Twelve Florida State Parks day-passes, all “Adventurer,” “Sandhill Crane,” “Torreya,” “Longleaf  Pine” and “Sabal Palm” benefits, plus two “Explore Our State Parks” replica bike license plates.

Hot Jobs: Current Employment Opportunities in Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci
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Hot Jobs: Current Employment Opportunities in Lake Wales

Hey Lake Wales job seekers! Ready to find your next gig? We’ve rounded up some awesome opportunities we’ve found available right now local to Lake Wales. Check out the pay, what you’ll do, and how to apply below. Hurry—these spots won’t stay open forever!

Bookkeeper– American Care Medical Centers, Lake Wales, is offering $18 an hour for this full-time position, Monday through Friday. Finance Clerk/Bookkeeper Position Summary: Under the direction of the Finance Director, the Finance Clerk assists in the ongoing maintenance of internal records and reports and in the preparation and maintenance of records and schedules for all agency accounts and programs. The Finance Clerk assists all other positions in the department to process any pending tasks. For more information, or to apply, click here.

Security Officer – Securitas is offering $16 to $18 per hour with a flexible schedule. The Security Officer position helps maintain a safe and secure environment for our clients by actively monitoring the premises, including patrolling a variety of locations. They preserve order while enforcing regulations and directives for a client site pertaining to personnel, visitors, and the area. For more information, or to apply, click here.

Fleet Administrative Assistant – Sunland Distribution of Florida, Inc., Lake Wales, is offering $40,000 to $45,000 for this full-time roll. They are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Fleet Administrative Assistant to join their Transportation Team. This role is essential in providing administrative support to ensure smooth operations within the office. For more information, or to apply, click here.

Quality Control Field Technician – Ajax Paving Industries in Lake Wales is hiring for this position at $21- $40 per hour. The Quality Control (QC) Field Technician is responsible for the quality control testing on projects as required by the project specifications. For more information, or to apply, click here.

Member Services Associate – Bok Tower Gardens is seeking candidates for this part-time roll. The primary goal of the Member Services Associate is to grow financial support to Bok Tower Gardens by assisting current members and inviting visitors to join. The MSA will provide high quality customer service and appreciation to members through in person interactions, phone conversations, emails, and postal mail. For more information, or to apply, click here.

Technical Writer/Editor – Petersen Industries is hiring for this position at $60,000 annually. They are seeking an Engineering Technician to join their team; this role is critical in supporting the design and manufacturing processes of loaders, ensuring the maintenance of high standards of quality and innovation. For more information, or to apply, click here.

Personal Shopper – Walmart in Lake Wales is offering $14 to $27 per hour for this part-time position. Online Order Filling associates have one focus: to fill and dispense online orders. They locate, prepare, and package merchandise, ensuring the accuracy of orders prior to pick up. They make appropriate product substitutions and consult with the customer as needed to ensure satisfaction. For more information, or to apply, click here.

Learn to Paint with Watercolors at Bok Tower Gardens July 26

Maria Iannucci
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Learn to Paint with Watercolors at Bok Tower Gardens July 26

Create your own Great Blue Heron watercolor painting from sketch to finish at Bok Tower Gardens! We provide you with all the materials for the class and artist, Kelly Quinn, will share her tips and techniques to guide you step-by-step through the process. There will also be stencils offered for those who would rather focus on the watercolor aspect only. Details: 9″ x 12″ watercolor paper with stencils also provided.

Instructor Bio:
Based in Polk County, Florida, Kelly Quinn is a Scientific Illustrator, Painter, and the Art Director of Canvas of the Wild (COTW) where she specializes in serving science at the intersection of art and design. Quinn is an accomplished digital and traditional artist with a history of working with local communities, museums, science organizations, and researchers since 2016. From scientific illustrations, infographics, and murals to coloring and activity books, she develops visualizations for communicating research and creating engaging outreach campaigns through the interactive art medium.

Event Date & Time

Saturday, July 26, 2025
12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Location

Alexander Discovery Center

Price

Members: $55 / Non-members: $75 (Includes admission for the day)
Registration required

Register Now

In Loving Memory of Lonie Jeanette Hunter, 72, of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of Lonie Jeanette Hunter, 72, of Lake Wales

Lonie Jeanette Hunter, 72

Lonie Hunter of Lake Wales passed away Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Lake Wales, Florida.

She was born March 11, 1953, in Perry, Florida to the late Charles and Bessie Glass. Lonie was a restaurant manager and loved to cook. She loved to fish, swim, and go thrift shopping. She loved flowers, but her favorite were Hibiscus flowers. Lonie was a loving mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother. 

Lonie is preceded in death by her parents, Charles Glass, Sr. and Bessie Mae; first husband Ralph Hunter; and second husband Chester Kilgore. She is survived by her son, Mike Kilgore of Lake Wales; Daughter, Kealy Westbrook of Lake Wales; and brother, W.C. Godfrey of Lakeland; She also leaves behind four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

In Loving Memory of Emory David Matteson, 85, of Frostproof

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of Emory David Matteson, 85, of Frostproof


Emory David Matteson, 85 

E. David Matteson of Frostproof passed away Friday, July 11, 2025, at his residence under the care of Vitas Hospice. 

David was born on September 23, 1939, in Erie, Pennsylvania to Emory Fenn Matteson.  

David was of the Catholic faith and a devout Republican. He loved boating, sailing, and fishing, as well as hiking in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Emory loved his grandchildren and enjoyed their visits.  

David is preceded in death by his parents, his previous wife, Coreen Matteson, and a brother. He is survived by his wife, Kathy Matteson; sons, Paul D. Matteson and wife Brenda of Connecticut, Guy Matteson and wife Rachel of Connecticut, and Eric Matteson and wife Melissa of Connecticut; Stepchildren, Eric Canfield of Georgia, Kathleen Travis of New York, and Cindy Blanchard of, New Hampshire; He also leaves behind 8 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren; sisters Melissa Ranahan of Massachusetts and Kirstin Browning of Florida.  

Services will be held at a later date up north. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com. 

Florida Highway Patrol Three-Peats in America’s Best Looking Cruiser Contest

Maria Iannucci
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Florida Highway Patrol Three-Peats in America’s Best Looking Cruiser Contest
The winning photo

Tallahassee — Today, the American Association of State Troopers (AAST) announced the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) as the 2025 winner of its annual America’s Best Looking Cruiser Contest — marking a historic three-peat for the Sunshine State. Florida is now the first state in contest history to win three consecutive years.

This year’s winning photo features FHP’s black and tan Corvette cruiser set against the backdrop of a vibrant Miami sunset, with the city’s iconic skyline in the distance. It’s a tribute to the energy, strength, and beauty of Florida — and a reflection of the pride FHP takes in representing all corners of the state.

“Florida is a state filled with pride and support for our law enforcement officers, and this historic, first ever three-peat is a reflection of that,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “This first-ever three-peat is a credit to our team’s creativity, our agency’s mission, and the thousands of Floridians who rallied behind us once again. I’m incredibly proud of our troopers, staff, and the support we’ve received from the public and our partners statewide. And, the fact remains that the Florida Highway Patrol “Black and Tan” IS the nation’s BEST LOOKING CRUISER.” 

“The AAST Best Looking Cruiser competition is great way for our State Troopers across the nation to connect with those we serve,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. “Your Florida Highway Patrol members are proud to represent the great State of Florida on this national stage. This win is for everyone that participated — and for the public, who benefit every day from strong partnerships and a shared commitment to public safety. Thank you, Florida, for making history with us!”

The 2025 contest kicked off on June 30 and featured a record 49 states. After two weeks of intense online voting, Florida emerged victorious in one of the closest finishes in contest history. Florida’s winning photo will be featured on the cover of the 2026 AAST America’s Best Looking Cruiser Calendar, with proceeds benefiting scholarships for the children of state troopers nationwide.

Lake Wales Considers Increasing Interim Millage Rate Due to Increased Property Values

Maria Iannucci
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Lake Wales Considers Increasing Interim Millage Rate Due to Increased Property Values

by James Coulter

 

Due to an increase in local property values, Lake Wales residents could see their property taxes increase if city commissioners approve an increased interim millage rate.

At their workshop meeting on Wed. July 9, 2025, Lake Wales City Commissioners reviewed an agenda item to approve the Polk County property appraiser’s certification of taxable value for this year, set the interim millage rate, and set the dates for the public hearings to adopt the final millage rate and the FY25-26 budget.

Since last year, Lake Wales has experienced an increase in taxable value of $144,469,003. As such, the city’s gross taxable value for operating purposes would increase to $1,322,637,537, which is 11.67% above last year’s final gross taxable value of $1,237,434,449.

As such, city staff recommends the interim millage rate be set to 8.0462 mills, which is greater than the rolled-back rate of 6.6772 mills by 20.50%. The current millage rate is 7.0462.

Under the current rate, the city would generate $9,737,168 in taxable income. Conversely, under the proposed rate, that income would increase significantly to 11,119,072, which is a difference of 1,381,904.

Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson admitted that this fiscal year would see some challenges. However, he remained optimistic that the increased property values, coupled with the grants the city has secured, will allow Lake Wales to continue experiencing economic development.

“We knew, heading into this, this would be the year we would have some tough challenges…I do not believe anybody up here thought this would be a cakewalk,” he said.

“I think that between the millage increase…and the grants that have been obtained, our productivity is going to continue in this upward trajectory, and we acknowledged here and outside of the city as being on a roll and very productive, and it looks like we will stay on that trajectory,” he later elaborated. “I have been here 56 years, and I have not seen anything like this.”

Commissioner Keith Thompson likewise commented that, while the city has faced some tough economic times, Lake Wales has also experienced a lot of growth and development. As such, he remains optimistic for the city’s future.

“Our city has survived and strived through some pretty tough times. And times where we did not have any economic development or the growth that would allow us to expand services with increased tax increment and revenue,” he said.”We are in some interesting historical time for Lake Wales where there are some great things on the horizon and that are being done currently.”

City commissioners will review and vote upon the agenda item at their next regular meeting, scheduled for Tues. July 15 at 6 PM at Lake Wales City Hall.

City-Owned Water Main and Force Main Along Thompson Nursery Road to be Relocated

Maria Iannucci
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City-Owned Water Main and Force Main Along Thompson Nursery Road to be Relocated

Screenshot from City of Lake Wales Meeting Agenda

by James Coulter

 

To facilitate the proposed widening of Thompson Nursery Road, the City of Lake Wales is seeking reimbursement for the relocation of a city-owned water main and force main.

At their workshop meeting on Wed. July 9, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners reviewed an agenda item concerning an interlocal agreement with Polk County and Peace Crossing Community Development District.

Both the county and the development district had entered into the agreement to design and construct certain sections of Thompson Nursery Road. This project, which includes the widening of the roadway, would necessitate the relocation of a city-owned water main and a force main.

“The property on the north side of Thompson Nursery Rd. had an issue during design with placement of all the utilities in the right of way,” wrote Sara Irvine, Special Projects Administrator.

“Staff wanted to avoid having to move these lines twice by relocating to their final resting place in the right of way now, while the Winter Haven Corp property is installing the utilities for the project,” she further elaborated.

The fiscal impact of this project is estimated to be $543,197.70. Approving the interlocal agreement would allow for the reimbursement of these costs.

The City Commission will review and vote upon this agenda item at their next regular meeting, scheduled for Tues. July 15 at 6 PM at Lake Wales City Hall.

Low Pressure Trough in Gulf Being Monitored by NHC

Maria Iannucci
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Low Pressure Trough in Gulf Being Monitored by NHC

The Tropical Weather Outlook issued by the NWS National Hurricane Center in Miami FL
at 200 PM EDT on Sunday, July 13, 2025 states that a low pressure system in the Gulf has a low potential of development at this time:

“For the North Atlantic…Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of America:

  1. Northeastern Gulf:
    A trough of low pressure near the southeastern U.S. coast is
    expected move westward across Florida during the next day or so, and
    into the northeastern Gulf by Tuesday. Environmental conditions
    could support some gradual development of this system during the
    middle to late part of this week while it moves westward over the
    northeastern and north-central portions of the Gulf. Regardless of
    development, heavy rainfall could produce localized flash flooding
    over portions of Florida and the north-central Gulf coast through
    the mid to late portion of this week.
  • Formation chance through 48 hours…low…near 0 percent.
  • Formation chance through 7 days…low…20 percent.”
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