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

Frostproof

Staff Reporter

-

May 22, 2023

32-year-old Ashauntie Cox (DOB 2/15/1991) of Orlando, who caused serious bodily harm to two children in her vehicle while fleeing from two crashes and driving under the influence, was arrested in Polk County on Friday, May 19, 2023, and charged with several felonies.

According to witnesses and information developed during the investigation, the first crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on US Hwy 27 at the intersection with US Hwy 98 near Frostproof. Cox was driving a blue Kia southbound on Hwy 27 when she struck a grey Chevy Silverado pickup truck and then fled at a high rate of speed. As she continued to recklessly speed south down Hwy 27, weaving in and out of slower moving traffic, she rear-ended a 2016 Honda CRV while trying to pass between that SUV and the vehicle next to it which were both also going southbound. The victim driving the CRV was taken to Sebring Hospital, where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

The collision caused Cox’s vehicle to flip several times, ejecting two Orlando children, ages 5 and 8 years old. Both sustained significant injuries, and they were taken to Tampa General Hospital where they are both in critical condition. A 27-year-old female passenger was also seriously injured along her spinal cord, hip, and back. She remains at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in stable condition.

When deputies arrived at the scene of the crash, they detected the odor of marijuana and located a bottle of tequila in Cox’s vehicle. Cox was transported to the hospital and interview by deputies. Cox told deputies they were driving from Orlando to Avon Park to celebrate the 5-year-old’s kindergarten graduation. She admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day, and to having four shots of tequila. Her blood was drawn for further analysis, and she displayed several signs of impairment.

She was booked into the Polk County Jail and is being charged with:

· Three counts DUI with serious bodily injury (F3)

· Two counts negligent child abuse with great bodily harm (F2)

· Reckless driving (F3)

· One count DUI with property damage (M1)

· One count DUI (M2)

Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigation.

“This woman had no regard for anyone’s life when she got behind the wheel intoxicated and then drove recklessly down a major highway, but what’s worse is the blatant disregard she had for the lives of the innocent children in her car. I expect a successful prosecution to hold her accountable—and let’s hope she loses her driving privileges if she’s released from jail or prison. Please keep these babies and their families in your prayers.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

One Movie Later: Knights of Guinevere is a Loving yet Biting Satire of Disney

Entertainment

Allison

-

October 9, 2025

0

One Movie Later: Knights of Guinevere is a Loving yet Biting Satire of Disney

by James Coulter

Independent animation has skyrocketed in recent years with animated projects like Hazbin Hotel, Lackadaisy, and The Amazing Digital Circus. The latter proved to be a surprise hit for Glitch Productions. With more than 369 million views, the pilot episode became one of the most-viewed animation pilots on YouTube.

Glitch Productions has since sought to repeat its success with the pilot episode of its newest animated endeavor, Knights of Guinevere. Within 24 hours of its release, the pilot episode gained more than a million views. One week later, it surpassed more than 11 million views.

But did Glitch Productions’ newest animated project deserve to go viral? Will Knights of Guinevere prove to be just as Amazingas The Amazing Digital Circus? Or is the next big animated princess property in another castle?

Knights of Guinevere follows the story of Andi and Frankie, two friends who live and work in the industrial wasteland underneath Park Planet, a floating theme park whose mascot is the android princess Guinevere.

One day, Frankie discovers a discarded and damaged Guinevere unit. Her boss wants to sell the robot for scrap. However, Frankie and Andi not only think the android can be repaired, but they also believe it may be the same robot they once met as children at the park. What secrets does this mysterious android hold?

Knights of Guinevere has visually stunning, dynamic animation. There’s nothing I can say about the art and animation that simply watching the pilot episode won’t accomplish. Other critics have praised the animation for having “magic in every single frame” and “a distinctive art style and emotionally resonant storytelling.” Honestly, I couldn’t have said it better myself.

This is one of those shows where every scene brims with detail, many of it hidden. One scene even has a QR code, which, when scanned, provides a mini comic that delves deeper into the show’s lore. It’s a show where, every time you rewatch it, you notice something different you didn’t notice before—the type of show that’s ripe for rewatches and fan theories.

For example, a common motif in the show is blue. It’s the color of the android princess Guinevere, and thus it’s a color prominent in most of the Planet Park merchandise. It’s also the color of the smog and sewage polluting the town under the park. And it’s the same color as the mucus many townspeople cough up, which shows the extent of the park’s pollution. One news story even reports of newborn babies being born blue!

The show’s premise isn’t anything new. Its futuristic dystopian setting is highly stratified, with the lower classes literally living in the shadow and waste of the upper class. Other media, from Final Fantasy 7 to Alita: Battle Angel, have similar settings thatcomment on the excesses of corporatism. However, what makes Knights of Guinevere unique is that its not-so-subtle critique isn’t merely aimed at our current socio-political system, but targeted directly at one of its most egregious beneficiaries and perpetrators: The Walt Disney Company.

The show’s critique of Disney is anything but subtle. Park Planet is a futuristic sci-fi version of Disneyland. Its founder, Orville Park, is undoubtedly based on Walt Disney. And the park’s mascot, Guinevere, is literally every Disney princess ever. Not only is she the star of her own princess movie, but every princess movie, including a live-action remake like the recent trend of Disney live-action remakes.

The show’s creator, Dana Terrace, previously worked for the Disney company, having created the hit animated show The Owl House. However, The Owl House was infamously cut short due to Disney’s executive meddling, as the show reportedly did not fit the company’s brand. As such, Knights of Guinevere is undoubtedly a project born from Terrace’s frustrations with the Disney company, as the pilot episode’s biting take on Disney clearly shows.

Only time will tell if Knights of Guinevere will achieve the same level of success as Glitch Productions’ other animated series,like The Amazing Digital Circus or Murder Drones. However, the company is confident enough in this new show to have already released merchandise for it online. Either way, the pilot episode certainly shows promise.

The Knights of Guinevere pilot episode can be watched on Glitch Productions’ YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCAdbUaMlAE

Pitchers, Polka, and Pretzels: The History and Traditions of Oktoberfest

Events

Allison

-

October 9, 2025

0

Pitchers, Polka, and Pretzels: The History and Traditions of Oktoberfest

by James Coulter

Get out your finest beer stein and strap on some lederhosen. Oktoberfest is right around the corner, right here in Polk County.

But have you ever wondered how this German holiday started? Why do Germans host this celebration every October? Why do they wear lederhosen and play Oompah music? And why do they drink so much beer?

Here’s a crash course on Oktoberfest and its many traditions:

Oktoberfest’s Origins

The first Oktoberfest began on October 12, 1810, in Munich as the wedding celebration of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The event included public feasts, music, dancing, and a horse race.

The celebration proved so “wunderbar” that it was hosted again the next year. It soon became an annual tradition that grew to include many other attractions. Oktoberfest is now one of the largest festivals in Germany that draws about six million visitors annually.

Beer

Beer has been brewed in Germany for centuries. German monasteries in the 10th century commercialized beer production with innovative techniques, and the 1516 Reinheitsgebot(German Beer Purity Law) cemented the country’s reputation for quality brewing.

While beer was a part of the original Oktoberfest celebration, large beer tents and halls backed by local breweries rose to prominence in 1896. The annual Oktoberfest celebration officially begins when Munich’s mayor taps the first barrel and cries “O’zapft is!” (“It’s tapped!”) Oktoberfest attendees consume roughly 6.9 to 7.4 million liters of beer each year.

Pretzels

The pretzel was invented by an Italian monk in 610 AD to teach and reward young children learning their prayers, as its twisted shape resembles arms crossed in prayer.

The salty treat became popular around the 12th Century in Germany, where it was adopted as a symbol by baking guildsand spread through the southern regions to become a German culinary staple.

Because their saltiness enhances the flavor of beer, they are commonly consumed with the beverage. Roughly 100,000 soft pretzels are consumed each year at Oktoberfest.

Lederhosen and Oompah

With its knee-high breeches and H-shaped suspenders, lederhosen is the traditional clothing of Oktoberfest. The outfit originated in the early 18th century as working-class workwear, but quickly became traditional clothing after the Bavarian nobility adopted it.

Lederhosen is now commonly worn by polka musicians and dancers who perform Oompah music, so named for the “oom-pah” rhythm of brass instruments like tubas. Traditional tunes include the “Beer Barrel Polka”, “Lichtensteiner Polka”, and “Ein Prosit”, which is a popular beer sing-along toast.

American Celebrations

Oktoberfest traditions arrived in America with German immigrants in the 19th century. Official celebrations were hosted in cities like Cincinnati and New Braunfels, Texas. However, the first version of the modern event began with Oktoberfest U.S.A. in La Crosse, Wisconsin, in 1960.

Today, more than 150 Oktoberfest events take place nationwide. The largest is Oktoberfest Zinzinnati in Cincinnati with over 800,000 attendees each year. Many events take place in Florida, with the biggest and longest-running celebration being Oktoberfest Miami, which draws over 15,000 visitors annually.

Polk County hosts many events in cities like Winter Haven, Lakeland, and Bartow. Here are a few upcoming events:

Oktoberfest Winter Haven

Fri. Oct. 10 @ 6pm – 9pm

Central Park Downtown, 41 5th St NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881

$10+ per person

Boktoberfest at Bok Tower Gardens

Fri. Oct. 17 @ 5pm

Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853

$10+ per person

Bartowberfest in Bartow

Fri. Oct. 17 @ 6pm – 9pm

180 S Central Ave, Bartow, FL 33830

Free

Swantoberfest at Swan Brewing

Sat. Oct. 18 – Sun. Oct. 19

12pm – 7pm

Swan Brewing, 115 W Pine St, Lakeland, FL 33815

Fall Back into Balance: Autumn Reset Tips

Health

Allison

-

October 9, 2025

0

Fall Back into Balance: Autumn Reset Tips

by James Coulter

Autumn is finally upon us. The days are getting shorter. The weather is getting cooler. And all of it can leave you feeling slower and more sluggish.

You can adjust your body and mind to this seasonal shift through an Autumn Reset. Here are some tips on how to grow accustomed to the cooler weather, shorter days, and longer nights:

Adjust Your Sleep Schedule. The shorter days and longer nights, especially after Daylight Saving Time, can disrupt your circadian rhythm. Adjust your sleep schedule accordingly. Gradually shift the time you wake up and go to bed by 15-minute increments over several days. To promote better sleep, limit evening alcohol and caffeine consumption, stop using screens like tablets and phones an hour before bed, and keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and comfortable.

Get Plenty of Sunlight and Movement. Shorter days mean less sunlight, and thus less Vitamin D, which can cause fatigue. Try to get 10–20 minutes of natural light after waking up. Sit by a window, sip coffee outside, or take a morning walk or jog. Keep yourself energized through the day by adding 10–30 minutes of movement, either through brisk walks, light exercise, or yoga. Moving around outdoors increases light exposure and boostsyour mood. And stand, stretch, or even simply step outside for 5–10 minutes every 60–90 minutes to prevent sluggishness.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy. Cooler air is drier, which can leave you feeling thirstier and more tired. Stay hydrated with a water bottle or thermos, and warm up with hot drinks like tea or coffee. Choose vitamin-rich, nutrient-dense meals like soups, stews, and roasted meats and vegetables over sugary foods, which can sap your energy. Seasonal produce like root vegetables, apples, legumes, and whole grains helps sustain energy and warmth.

Take Vitamin Supplements. Shorter days and cooler autumn weather can sap your physical and mental energy. Vitamin supplements can help boost your energy and immune system during the fall season. Vitamin D fights fatigue as sunlight wanes, B vitamins support metabolism and energy production, and iron and magnesium aid red blood cell formation to improve oxygen delivery, reducing tiredness and fatigue.

Declutter Your House and Prepare for Winter. While springtime is often associated with cleaning, autumn is also a good season for tidying your house. Seasonal cleaning not only lifts your mood, but also prepares your home for winter. Rotate wardrobes from light summer clothes to heavier fall and winter clothing. Clean windows to let in waning natural sunlight. Layer bedding with warm blankets and comforters. And replace a few home textiles to signal a fresh start.

Practice Mindfulness. While most people set resolutions at the start of the year, autumn is also an ideal time to set simple, measurable goals before the year’s end. Choose achievable goals like reading more books, cooking seasonal meals, or taking regular walks. Schedule low-effort social contact activities like weekly walks or a monthly dinner. Keep a daily journal to track your progress and monitor your mental and emotional well-being by noting changes to mood, sleep, or interests. And keep your spirits high with seasonal activities such as apple picking or baking.

Downtown Lake Wales Hosts Annual Halloween Spooktacular

Events

Allison

-

October 8, 2025

0

Downtown Lake Wales Hosts Annual Halloween Spooktacular

Lake Wales Main Street invites families to enjoy a frightfully fun evening at the Annual Halloween Spooktacular in downtown Lake Wales!

The event will be filled with activities for all ages, including Trick or Treating, delicious food, and a Haunted Alley for those seeking a thrill. Guests can also snap photos with The Addams Family and explore displays from the Lake Wales Police and Fire Departments.

To wrap up the night, a not-so-scary movie will play under the stars. The Halloween Spooktacular takes place Friday, October 25 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in downtown Lake Wales. For more information, call 863-249-7936.

Flyer courtesy of City of Lake Wales, FL

Trunk or Treat and Airboat Contest Set for Lake Wales

Events

Allison

-

October 8, 2025

0

Trunk or Treat and Airboat Contest Set for Lake Wales

Get ready for spooky fun at Tractor Supply in Lake Wales on Saturday, October 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.!

This year’s Trunk or Treat will feature candy, costumes, and a special twist — a best decorated airboat contest sponsored by Carbon Concepts.

Participants must sign up to join the event to be eligible for prizes, including $200 for first place, $100 for second, and $50 for third.

Bring your creativity and Halloween spirit to 1450 State Road 60, Lake Wales.

To RSVP your boat, contact Christy at 850-490-4998 by call or text.

Event by Kissimmee River Valley Sportsman Association

Explore the Natural Beauty and History of SUMICA in Lake Wales

Allison

-

October 7, 2025

0

Explore the Natural Beauty and History of SUMICA in Lake Wales

Located at 14020 Hwy. 60 E., Lake Wales, SUMICA is the largest of Polk County’s Environmental Lands and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 4,000 acres along the shore of Lake Weohyakapka, SUMICA offers stunning landscapes of pine flatwoods, scenic marshes, and shaded oak hammocks—perfect for hiking, biking, or nature photography.

Climb the former railroad bed that rises six feet above the land for a beautiful view of the countryside. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding trails, picnic areas, and a primitive campsite for an immersive nature experience.

The name SUMICA stands for Société Universelle Mining Industrie, Commerce et Agriculture, a French company that once harvested timber here. Founded in 1917, the town of SUMICA thrived on lumbering and turpentine before disappearing in 1927. Today, this preserved land protects valuable ecosystems and cultural history, serving as a modern-day tribute to Florida’s natural heritage.

City Workshop Reviews Tax Payor Funded Annual Grant Of $175,000 To The Lake Wales History Museum

Lake Wales

carl

-

October 6, 2025

0

City Workshop Reviews Tax Payor Funded Annual Grant Of $175,000 To The Lake Wales History Museum

LAKE WALES — During its October 1 City Commission workshop, Lake Wales officials discussed proposed renewals of the lease and operational agreements with the Lake Wales History Museum, which would continue the city’s long-standing support for the museum at $175,000 per year over a new three-year term.

City staff presented revised drafts of both agreements, which outline a continuing partnership between the City of Lake Wales and the nonprofit Lake Wales History Museum, Inc. The agreements cover management of the city-owned historic sites, including the 1928 ACL Railroad Depot, 1920 Crystal Lodge, and the Mimi Hardman Collections and Research Center .

According to the city’s memorandum, the renewal proposal maintains the same annual funding level as in the previous contract. A previous request appeared to ask for $200,000, but has since been revised. Commissioners requested additional measurable goals and reporting standards. Those measurable outcomes are expected to be added before the agreement returns for a formal vote.

The operational draft specifies quarterly progress reports detailing attendance, programming, fundraising, and social-media engagement . The museum would also continue hosting the annual Pioneer Days Festival and overseeing day-to-day operations and maintenance of the historic facilities.

While commissioners reviewed the documents at the October 1 workshop, the item does not appear on the October 7 City Commission meeting agenda as of publication.

At this time, Lake Wales Daily is reaching out to both the Lake Wales History Museum and city commissioners to gather additional information on the proposed changes and timeline for consideration.

If approved in the coming weeks, the proposed new three-year agreement would renew the city’s annual grant and preserve the public-private partnership that helps maintain the city’s key historical landmarks. However, it appears the length of the agreement may be another factor for discussion also. The city may want a year to year agreement going forward.

Movie Night at the Lake Wales Library

Lake Wales

Allison

-

October 6, 2025

0

Get ready for a cozy evening at the Lake Wales Public Library! Join us for Movie Night on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the downstairs meeting room. Bring your friends and family, grab some popcorn and candy, and enjoy a fun, relaxing night at the library.

This free community event is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy a great film together. Whether you’re a regular visitor or new to the library, everyone is welcome to join in on the fun.

For your free tickets, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/movie-night-at-the-library-tickets-1708742317269?aff=efbevent&fbclid=IwQ0xDSwNQzGJleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHuDXOxpaoPCd2dm8P-s-KmNdYtvGEYE5VVYYXcviRcyXpmRySpr1uzcnZHVo_aem_CFafKLBPrsDCbvJdq-MuCw

Curious about the movie? Give the library a call or stop by to find out what’s showing! Please note that all viewers under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Don’t miss this chance to kick back, connect with your community, and enjoy movie night at the library!

Location: 290 Cypress Garden Lane, Lake Wales, FL

The Lake Wales Arts Council presents Sacred Currents: Spirituality in African Art

Lake Wales

Allison

-

October 3, 2025

0

Want to experience Sacred Currents: Spirituality in African Art on a group tour? Gather your friends, family, school group, or community and join in!

The Lake Wales Arts Council presents Sacred Currents: Spirituality in African Art, an extraordinary exhibition from the collection of Daniel Jones, on display October 1 through December 12, 2025. This captivating collection explores the deep connections between art and spirituality across African cultures, showcasing works rich in symbolism, tradition, and meaning.

Group tours begin October 17 and are available Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Perfect for schools, community groups, or families, these tours offer a unique opportunity to engage with the artwork on a deeper level.

Special events include the Opening Reception on October 16 from 5:30–7:00 PM and a Lunch & Learn on November 20 from noon–1:00 PM.

Reserve your group tour today at Register Here.

Lake Wales Arts Council, 1099 State Road 60, Lake Wales, FL

Flyer courtesy of Lake Wales Arts Council

The Woman’s Club of Lake Wales to Host Third Annual Plant & Garden Festival

Events

Allison

-

October 2, 2025

0

The Woman’s Club of Lake Wales to Host Third Annual Plant & Garden Festival

The Woman’s Club of Lake Wales invites the community to its Third Annual Plant & Garden Festival on Saturday, October 18, and Sunday, October 19. The free, family-friendly event takes place on the historic clubhouse grounds overlooking Crystal Lake, offering a scenic backdrop for a weekend of shopping and fun.

Festivalgoers can browse dozens of vendor booths featuring a wide selection of plants, flowers, and garden accessories. A variety of food options will also be available for purchase. The event will run rain or shine.

Proceeds from the festival will benefit the GFWC Lake Wales Woman’s Club scholarship and community service programs. To date, the club has awarded more than $2,500 to Lake Wales High School graduates pursuing higher education.

The Woman’s Club is located at 275 East Park Avenue in downtown Lake Wales. Festival hours are Saturday from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

LAKE WALES DAILY NEWSFAST FACTUAL FREE!

LAKE WALES DAILY NEWSFast-Factual-Free