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
PCSO – Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 65 people for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol and/or drugs last month.
Among these arrests, 14 were involved in crashes, one had two children with him at the time of his DUI, and seven were determined to be in the United States illegally and now have ICE Holds on them.
These 65 arrests were PCSO arrests only, and does not include arrests in Polk County made by any of the city police departments or the Florida Highway Patrol.
If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, please call 9-1-1 immediately.
Lake Wales resident, Stacy Ennis, with her husband, Jerry (left) and their children
Freeze dryers have been around for decades. While the concept is not new, the availability of the technology is growing, and a Lake Wales woman has been both embracing it, and evolving the way she uses it.
Stacy Ennis, as many did, started a new hobby during the days of the COVID-19 pandemic; freeze-dried foods have been growing in popularity since the 2010s, when the technology became more mainstream. One can now go to any number of local retailers (yes, even in Lake Wales), and order one, not to mention online ordering.
Ellis’ freeze dryer, a large HarvestRight
The Lake Wales mother of three started out small, with a mindset that the pandemic instilled in our culture.
“During COVID, I became very interested, maybe even a little obsessed, with homesteading and prepping,” says Ennis. “The world had become so uncertain and I wanted to make sure that we could provide and feed our family even through shortages, power outages, EMPs or war.
“My large Harvest Right was a Mother’s Day gift.”
She began with simple items; freeze-drying strawberries, bananas, mangos, watermelons and raspberries. Her theory was to learn the process with items her family could enjoy in the short-term while figuring out the best storage process. In time, she began sharing her processes and learning curves on a YouTube channel.
With time and experience, Ennis saw an opportunity to take her hobby to the next level.
Freeze dried Skittles
“As friends and family started reaching out and requesting candies, I started a side business called Fantastical Freeze Dried treats but the market got kind of flooded with freeze-dried goodies, so I have gone back to doing my original plan….prepping. It’s food security for my family even after I am gone. It also allows you to put food up for long term at today’s prices. Storage is easy and weighs much less than canned items and doesn’t take up as much room as canned items.”
Ennis still regularly freeze-dries food, but some items are done more frequently due to family use and needs.
Apple slices, freeze dried
“I do a lot of left overs from large meals like goulash and chicken and rice soup. Raw scrambled eggs when my chickens are being over-generous. Fresh and frozen veggies when I buy in bulk. Lots of fruits. I have even freeze dried my daughter’s extra breast milk for easier storage.”
She often feeds her family from her stash; her husband, Jerry; daughter, Riley, 27 and her husband, Austin; her young grandchildren, Lincoln and Theo; her son, Parker; and her youngest daughter, Addison, 19.
Freeze-dried ice cream, sectioned into portions
In recent years, home freeze dryers have moved from niche homesteading tools to must-have appliances for health enthusiasts, survivalists, and food lovers alike.
What began as bulky, commercial-grade equipment used mainly by pharmaceutical and food processing companies has now found a comfortable space on kitchen counters and in garages. Thanks to improvements in size, about the size of a home dishwasher, user-friendliness, and price, freeze-drying at home has become increasingly accessible to the average consumer.
A fully cooked freeze dried meal. Add water and heat up and it’s ready.
When considering a freeze-dryer, size is the most significant consideration. With only a couple of brands on the market, HarvestRight is by far the most popular. While the marching comes with a starter kit of items, you will need to replace consumables like Mylar bags and containers for storage; these are relatively affordable at a few cents a bag. A plethora of accessories including extra trays, food separators, stackers and lids, are also on the market.
From Labs to Kitchens: A Brief History
Freeze drying—also known as lyophilization—was first developed during World War II to preserve blood serum. By the 1950s, it was being used to preserve foods for astronauts and military personnel. Until recently, the high cost and complexity of freeze-drying technology made it impractical for home use.
That began to change in the early 2010s when a few companies, most notably Harvest Right, introduced compact models targeted toward individual consumers. Since then, innovation has accelerated, with improvements in energy efficiency, automation, and mobile app integration.
Benefits of Owning a Home Freeze Dryer
1. Long-Term Food Preservation: Freeze-dried foods can last up to 25 years when properly stored. Unlike traditional dehydrating, which removes about 80% of moisture, freeze drying removes up to 98–99%, dramatically reducing spoilage risk.
2. Nutrient Retention: Freeze drying preserves nearly all the nutrients in fruits, vegetables, and meats, making it superior to canning or cooking for those focused on health.
3. Cost Savings Over Time: Though the initial investment (ranging from $2,000 to $5,000) is steep, many users report saving money by freeze-drying leftovers, bulk groceries, and seasonal harvests instead of buying pre-packaged emergency food.
4. Food Security and Preparedness: With growing interest in self-reliance and preparedness, freeze dryers allow households to build long-term food stores customized to their dietary needs.
Challenges and Drawbacks
Despite the perks, owning a freeze dryer isn’t for everyone. Some of the primary challenges include:
1. Upfront Cost and Maintenance: The initial price tag can be prohibitive, and units require regular maintenance, including changing oil (or opting for pricier oil-free pumps).
2. Size and Noise: Freeze dryers are large and can be noisy during operation—sometimes running for 20 to 40 hours per batch—making them less ideal for small homes or apartments.
3. Power Consumption: They use a significant amount of electricity, which may be a concern for off-grid users or those trying to reduce their energy footprint.
4. Learning Curve: While many machines are automated, understanding what foods freeze dry well—and how to store them afterward—takes practice.
Popular Uses and Recipes
Home freeze dryers are incredibly versatile. Common uses include:
Fruits & Vegetables: Strawberries, bananas, apples, corn, and green beans are freeze drying staples. They rehydrate well and make great snacks.
Dairy: Yogurt drops, milk, and even ice cream can be freeze-dried with excellent results.
Cooked Meals: Soups, stews, and casseroles rehydrate impressively, making them popular for backpacking or emergency meals.
Pet Food: Homemade freeze-dried dog treats are growing in popularity.
Herbs & Spices: Homegrown herbs can be preserved with more flavor and shelf life than air-dried versions.
Recipe Highlight: Freeze-Dried Chicken Alfredo Cook your favorite chicken alfredo recipe, spread it in trays, and freeze dry it. When ready to eat, just add hot water, wait 5–10 minutes, and enjoy a gourmet meal on the trail or during a power outage, or even when you don’t have time to cook a full meal.
The Future of Freeze Drying at Home
As technology advances, expect smarter machines, quieter operation, and better energy efficiency. Some companies are even exploring solar-powered models to meet the needs of off-grid users.
With ongoing concerns about food security, sustainability, and inflation, home freeze drying seems poised to shift from trend to permanent fixture in modern kitchens.
Have you tried freeze drying at home? Share your favorite recipe or experience in the post comments!
Beat the heat with fun, free crafts at the Lake Wales Public Library this Saturday, 7/12 at 1 PM to create your own Needle Punch Coasters. All supplies will be provided. Sign up on Eventbrite.com or by calling the Library at 863-678-4004.
The Lake Wales Public Library is located at 290 Cypress Garden Ln., in Lake Wales.
Calling all landowners, hunters, and property managers; are you interested in learning practical strategies to optimize your land for wildlife, hunting, and conservation?
Join the “What’s Your Game Plan?” Habitat and Game Management Workshop hosted by UF/IFAS Extension Polk County on July 15 from 6-8 PM at Brennéan Auditorium, UF/IFAS Extension Office.
Learn how to enhance natural habitat, boost game populations, and plan for long-term wildlife management on your Central Florida property
Topics include: Native habitat enhancement, Wildlife management, Sustainable land-use practice and more.
Sign up for a complimentary field experience on July 19 to see these techniques in action.
Lake Wales Arts Council is kicking off Studio 60 next week — a creative, hands-on pottery experience just for teens.
Designed for teens ages 14–18, this camp offers a unique opportunity to work with professional ceramic artists, explore new pottery techniques, and create original pieces in a fun and supportive studio environment. Whether you’re an experienced potter or just getting started, Studio 60 is the perfect place to learn, grow, and connect with fellow young artists.
Camp runs July 14-18 from 9:00am – 1:00pm.
Spots are limited — register today and get your hands in the clay!
For more information or to register, please visit www.lakewalesartscouncil.org.
Larry E. Williams of Tampa passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Suncoast Hospice Care Center in Palm Harbor, Florida.
Larry was born on December 1, 1947, in Mobile, Alabama, to Edward Robert Williams and Melrose Collins. Though he spent many years in Tampa, Larry grew up in Lake Wales — a place he always considered his true home and “happy place.” It was there that he formed lifelong friendships, made cherished memories, and laid the foundation for the man he would become.
From a young age, Larry stood out for his kindness, sense of humor, and natural athleticism. He was a standout student-athlete and served as captain of his high school’s football, basketball, and track teams. He earned All-Conference, All-County, and All-State honors in multiple sports, and during his junior year, he was awarded a football scholarship to Georgia Tech, where he proudly played for four years.
After college, Larry served in the United States Army Reserves for eight years. He went on to build a distinguished career as an executive in Human Resources, holding leadership roles at many respected companies, including GTE, American Express, Seminole Electric, Citicorp, CoBank, and Walter Energy. Larry was admired for his integrity, tireless work ethic, and the genuine respect he extended to colleagues at every level. He approached his career with dedication and pride, always leading with fairness, humility, and a calm, steady presence.
He lived a life filled with passion — for family, friends, Georgia Tech football, and cars. He never passed up a chance to enjoy a good laugh, a great story, time on the water, or a scoop of ice cream.
Those who knew Larry knew a man who was loyal, warm, and hardworking. He treated everyone with respect, carried himself with quiet dignity, and was always ready to lend a hand. He was deeply devoted to his family and was a loving father and proud granddad.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Melrose Williams. He is survived by his son, Sean Williams; daughter-in-law, Brittney; beloved granddaughter, Sterling; and sister, Ann Purcell.
A viewing will be held at 9:30 a.m., followed by a service to celebrate Larry’s life at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales, Florida.
Following the cemetery ceremony, the family warmly invites you to join them for food, fellowship, and fond memories at The Emerson in Lake Wales — a time to continue celebrating Larry’s life and the love he shared with all who knew him.
Condolences may be shared with the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.
Lake Wales, FL – A serious traffic collision at the intersection of Highway 27 and Presidents Drive earlier today had completely shut down the southbound lanes of Hwy 27 Monday afternoon. As of 2:30pm PCSO advised the roadway was now open.
EARLIER POST ————
The crash occurred shortly after 1:00 p.m., prompting a large response from Polk County Fire Rescue. Multiple emergency units arrived on scene, including medical and fire crews.
One adult has been declared a trauma alert and is being transported by medical helicopter. The helicopter landing zone was established at the Warner University football field. A pediatric patient was also involved in the crash but was not classified as a trauma alert.
Drivers are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes, as the southbound lanes of Hwy 27 will remain closed while emergency crews work the scene. A power line is now also down in the area. Appears a semi tractor trailer may have clipped it during the accident. Additional law enforcement requested as drivers are driving over power lines!
Duke Energy had issued a statement that power was out for customers in the surrounding area. However, they just issued an update advising power was back on now.
Reported Power Outages After Crash On Hwy 27 & President’s Way
Further details on the extent of injuries and when the roadway will reopen have not yet been released.
Lake Mariana boat ramp, Polk County. Photo: Polk County
FWC: The agency is preparing to implement a new law to improve vessel accountability and reduce derelict vessels.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is preparing to implement a new law aimed at strengthening vessel accountability and enhancing protections for Florida’s waterways. Senate Bill 164, signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis on June 19, will go into effect on July 1, 2025.
This legislation is designed to help reduce the number of at-risk and derelict vessels across the state and improve enforcement tools for FWC officers and partner agencies. Key provisions of the new law include:
Clarified Ownership Standards: The definition of “vessel owner” is clarified, and a valid vessel title will now serve as prima facie (presumed) evidence of ownership.
Stronger Requirements for At-Risk Vessels: Vessel owners must now complete an Effective Means of Propulsion (EMP) evaluation upon request by law enforcement. If an officer has reason to believe the vessel lacks an effective means of propulsion and the owner is present, the evaluation must be conducted immediately or within 48 hours if notified otherwise.
Public Nuisance Vessel Designation: A vessel may now be declared a public nuisance — subject to removal like a derelict vessel — if the owner receives three citations related to any at-risk conditions within a 24-month period, including unpaid citations or failures to appear in court.
Expanded Noncriminal Infractions: Violations such as expired registration and long-term anchoring may now be addressed through mailed noncriminal citations from law enforcement.
More Flexible Use of Removal Funds: Derelict Vessel removal funding may now be used not only for removing DVs but also for preventive removals under the Vessel Turn-In Program and for public nuisance vessels.
Harsher Penalties for Repeat DV Offenders:
First offense: First-degree misdemeanor
Second offense: Third-degree felony
Third offense: Second-degree felony
No Liveaboard on Derelict Vessels: It is now a first-degree misdemeanor to live aboard a vessel that has been declared derelict by the court or the owner has not requested an administrative hearing.
Additional requirements, including an annual electronic permit issued by FWC for vessels anchoring long-term, will go into effect on July 1, 2026. The penalty for unauthorized long-term anchoring will consist of fines ranging from $100 for the first offense, $250 for the second offense, and $500 for the third or subsequent offense. If a vessel owner receives three violations within a 2-year period, the vessel may be declared a public nuisance and removed as if it were derelict. Some exemptions apply and include vessels that are government-operated, construction vessels, actively engaged in commercial or recreational fishing, docked at a public or private facility, or moored at permitted moorings.
“We have seen increasing success in our efforts to combat the ongoing derelict vessel problem in Florida’s waters,” said Capt. Travis Franklin, leader of the FWC Derelict Vessel Removal and Prevention Program. “This new legislation enhances our efforts to not only remove derelict vessels but also prevent at-risk vessels from becoming derelict.”
Derelict vessels remain a priority for the FWC, and the multi-year initiative to reduce the number of derelict vessels on Florida’s waterways is ongoing. These vessels pose serious risks to seagrass beds, marine life, navigation, public safety and property. The Boating and Waterways Section is leading this statewide effort in partnership with local governments and law enforcement.
Leaving a vessel in a derelict condition is a crime. Derelict vessels, including those that are sinking, grounded, stripped or lacking vital systems, threaten both people and Florida’s natural resources.
The FWC has removed nearly 200 vessels through the Vessel Turn-In Program and is actively taking applications from at-risk vessel owners. Vessel owners can call VTIP specialists at the FWC for more information on the program at 850-488-5600 or visit the VTIP website at MyFWC.com/boating and click on “Vessel Turn-In Program” on the second slider at the top of the page.
Parents, ready for some downtime? Simply drop off your kid(s) off at Lake Wales Family Récréation Center, every 2nd & 4th Friday of the month, between 6pm to 9pm.
Kids will have access to various activities, board games and food and beverages. The program is facilitated by designated City staff members.
$15 for the first child. $8 for each additional sibling. Kids ages kindergarten to 5th grade. Registration is required by 1PM on the day of the event. For more information, call (863) 678-4192.
Date: July 11, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Lake Wales Family Recreation Center, 1001 Burns Ave. Lake Wales, FL 33853
Cost: First child is $15 and every additional child within the same family is $8.
Betty Ann Mercer, 88, of Lake Wales, Florida, passed peacefully at home on Wednesday evening, June 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving children, husband, and sister.
Born at home “out in the sticks” near Griffin, Georgia, on October 18, 1936, Betty Ann was the daughter of the late Daisy Gladys and Horace Carr Byne. She grew up on a farm with vegetable and flower gardens, chickens, and cows, and from an early age found joy in the beauty of the natural world.
After graduating from high school, Betty Ann worked at the Borden Milk Company near Atlanta and later moved to Lakeland, Florida, to attend Southeastern Bible College. In 1958, she met William Rex Mercer, and just three months after their first date at Cypress Gardens, they were married. Together, they became educators and members of the Polk Education Association.
While teaching full-time in Frostproof and raising two young children, Betty Ann earned her master’s degree in school guidance and counseling from Rollins College in Winter Park. In 1975, the family moved to Lake Wales, where she worked at Hillcrest Elementary for more than 20 years, first as a second-grade teacher and later as a guidance counselor. She inspired a love of reading and learning in her students, and her dedication was recognized in 1988 when she was honored as Polk County Teacher of the Year.
Betty Ann was a committed member and leader at First Assembly of God, now Impact Church. She taught Sunday School and founded a Women’s Aglow fellowship. She had a passionate vision for the church’s new building to be located at the entrance to Bok Tower Gardens, where, after much prayer and negotiation, it indeed stands today. She truly embodied Edward Bok’s sentiment encouraging people to make a difference in their world: “Wherever your lives may be cast, make the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it.”
Betty Ann was cherished by all who knew her. She was calm, gentle, and kind – a nurturing presence who never spoke a harsh word. She gave of herself freely, caring for her family, her students, her church community, animals, and anyone in need. She was the heart of her family and a source of endless love, support, and quiet strength. She found much happiness in tending to her plants and garden, sitting outside watching the sandhill cranes, or reclining peacefully with a cat or two on her lap. The next time you see a butterfly, hear birds singing, or see a beautiful sunset, please take a moment to remember our sweet Betty Ann.
She was preceded in death by her beloved sister Joan and her brothers, Horace Jr. and Harmon Byne. She is survived by her faithful husband of nearly 67 years, William Rex Mercer; her sister, Nora Alice Chapman of Lake Wales; her brother, Dr. William Marcus Byne of the Bronx, New York; her loving daughter, Lanna Mercer Barbaroux and life partner, Eduardo Beltran of Austin; and her adoring son, William Steven Mercer, who cared for his mother with great devotion in her final years.
A celebration of Betty Ann’s life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.
