32-year-old Ashauntie Cox (DOB 2/15/1991) of Orlando, who caused serious bodily harm to two children in her vehicle while fleeing from two crashes and driving under the influence, was arrested in Polk County on Friday, May 19, 2023, and charged with several felonies.
According to witnesses and information developed during the investigation, the first crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on US Hwy 27 at the intersection with US Hwy 98 near Frostproof. Cox was driving a blue Kia southbound on Hwy 27 when she struck a grey Chevy Silverado pickup truck and then fled at a high rate of speed. As she continued to recklessly speed south down Hwy 27, weaving in and out of slower moving traffic, she rear-ended a 2016 Honda CRV while trying to pass between that SUV and the vehicle next to it which were both also going southbound. The victim driving the CRV was taken to Sebring Hospital, where he was treated and released with minor injuries.
The collision caused Cox’s vehicle to flip several times, ejecting two Orlando children, ages 5 and 8 years old. Both sustained significant injuries, and they were taken to Tampa General Hospital where they are both in critical condition. A 27-year-old female passenger was also seriously injured along her spinal cord, hip, and back. She remains at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in stable condition.
When deputies arrived at the scene of the crash, they detected the odor of marijuana and located a bottle of tequila in Cox’s vehicle. Cox was transported to the hospital and interview by deputies. Cox told deputies they were driving from Orlando to Avon Park to celebrate the 5-year-old’s kindergarten graduation. She admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day, and to having four shots of tequila. Her blood was drawn for further analysis, and she displayed several signs of impairment.
She was booked into the Polk County Jail and is being charged with:
· Three counts DUI with serious bodily injury (F3)
· Two counts negligent child abuse with great bodily harm (F2)
· Reckless driving (F3)
· One count DUI with property damage (M1)
· One count DUI (M2)
Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigation.
“This woman had no regard for anyone’s life when she got behind the wheel intoxicated and then drove recklessly down a major highway, but what’s worse is the blatant disregard she had for the lives of the innocent children in her car. I expect a successful prosecution to hold her accountable—and let’s hope she loses her driving privileges if she’s released from jail or prison. Please keep these babies and their families in your prayers.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is seeking qualified men and women in Polk County who desire to work as substitute crossing guards in the Lakeland area.
Anyone interested in applying should contact Supervisor Heather Strafford at (863) 534-7300 ext. 408.
Applicants should be available to work for one hour in the morning and for 30 minutes in the afternoon when scheduled to work a crossing.
School Crossing Guard services are provided by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office through funds provided by the Polk County Board of County Commissioners. This vital program provides adult crossing guards at selected hazardous school crossings to ensure the safety of our elementary school children walking to and from school.
The wait is finally over as high school basketball returns to Polk County, Florida, with teams across the area preparing to hit the hardwood for the 2026–27 season. With a new year comes fresh opportunities, renewed expectations and another chance for programs to establish themselves among the best in the county. From teams looking to build on last season’s success to programs hoping to turn things around, there will be plenty of storylines to follow as the season gets underway. Polk County has no shortage of basketball talent, and this season should provide plenty of exciting matchups, heated rivalries and competitive battles throughout the county. With district championships and postseason opportunities on the line, every game will present a chance for teams to gain momentum and prove what they are capable of. Whether it is experienced seniors leading the way or younger players stepping into bigger roles, the upcoming season will give plenty of athletes an opportunity to make their mark. As the opening tip approaches, the question remains: which Polk County programs will rise to the occasion and separate themselves from the competition? The road to a district championship begins now, and the 2026–27 boys basketball season is ready to deliver another exciting year on the hardwood. With that being said, here are some of the top teams in Polk County that are coming into the 2026-2027 season. The first team to watch out for is the Bartow Yellow Jackets. The Yellow Jackets are coming into this season after finishing last season (24-6) before falling to Evans 46–40 in the regional final. This season, the Yellow Jackets are looking to get back to their winning ways and compete for another state championship as they chase their seventh state title. However, Bartow will have some production to replace following the departure of several key players, including Ja’Kylen Crossley. Crossley earned All-County First Team honors last season while averaging 14.0 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. With that being said, there are some players that are coming back that can help replace his production. These players include Junior James Ratteree who averaged 10.0 points per game, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game during the 2025-2026 season. There is also Junior Derwyn Link who averaged 11.1 points per game, 6.3 rebounds per game, and 0.8 assist per game during the 2025-2026 season. Bartow enters the 2026–27 season with another opportunity to remind Polk County why the Yellow Jackets are one of the most respected basketball programs in the area. Although the departure of key players, including Ja’Kylen Crossley, leaves some production to replace, Bartow has young talent ready to step into bigger roles. The Yellow Jackets season begins on 11/25 at 3:15 pm when they face the Morton Potters.
The next team to watch out for in the 2026-2027 season in Polk County would have to be the Victory Christian Academy Storm. The Storm are coming into this season with high expectations after an impressive 2025-2026 season where they finished (25-7) and lost in the state championship against Sagemont Prep 67-63. Victory Christian is looking to rebound this season and claim their first state title in program history Before they can do that, they must address the key pieces they lost from last year’s team such as Tucker Fox who averaged 12.9 points per game, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game as well as All-County First Team. Another Key player Victory Christian lost was MJ McCalla who had averaged 12.9 points per game, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.0 defensive rebounds per game. Despite those losses, Victory Christian has returning talent that can help keep the team among Polk County’s best. Christian Fuller returns after leading the Storm in scoring, averaging 15.0 points, 2.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. Miles Morrell will also be an important piece after leading the team in assists with 4.0 per game. Despite losing several key contributors from last year’s state runner-up squad, Victory Christian has the returning talent to remain one of the top teams in Polk County. With Christian Fuller leading the way and players like Christian Fuller and Miles Morrell expected to play important roles, the Storm have the pieces to make another serious postseason push. After coming so close to bringing home a state championship last season, the biggest question heading into 2026–27 is whether Victory Christian can finish what it started and bring a championship back to Lakeland. Victory Christian will begin their season on 11/17 at 7:30 pm when they face the Bell Creek Academy Panthers. The last team I would suggest watching out for in the 2026-2027 season would have to be the Sante Fe Catholic Crimson Hawks who went (23-8) and fell just one game short of a state championship appearance when they lost to Miami Country Day in the state semifinals where they lost 72-53. However, Santa Fe will have some major production to replace following the departure of key players from last year’s roster. One of the biggest losses is Toby Lane, who led the team in several statistical categories, including scoring, assists, and steals. Lane averaged 16.5 points, 4.4 assists and 3.4 steals per game, making him an important part of the Crimson Hawks’ success. Another key departure is Charlie Heddon, who provided valuable depth and experience. Even with those losses, Santa Fe has returning players who can help keep the program competitive. Shannon McArthur returns after averaging 10.0 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. Urijah Newkirk will also be a key contributor after averaging 10.3 points, 2.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game last season. After reaching the state semifinals, Santa Fe Catholic has established itself as one of the programs to watch in Polk County. Although the Crimson Hawks will have a major challenge replacing Lane’s scoring and leadership, returning players like McArthur and Newkirk give them a strong foundation heading into 2026–27. The question now is whether Santa Fe can build on last season’s success and take that next step toward a state championship. The Crimson Hawks begin their season on November 18 at 8:00 p.m. against the Ridge Community Bolts.
Main Street Bartow is moving forward with new leadership, announcing Kristin Shuff as the organization’s new Executive Director.
Shuff brings five years of experience with Main Street Bartow, having been involved with the organization before stepping into her new position. Her appointment places her at the helm as the organization continues its work to strengthen downtown Bartow and support its historic district.
As Executive Director, Shuff will help lead efforts focused on preserving the area’s historic character, encouraging economic growth and supporting the businesses and community that make up downtown Bartow.
The organization said it is looking forward to the ideas, energy and leadership Shuff will bring as Main Street Bartow enters its next chapter.
Downtown businesses, residents, volunteers and community partners are encouraged to welcome Shuff as she takes on the new role.
Christian Jose Monter passed away 11/07/2026. He was a beloved son, brother, cousin, grandson, nephew, and friend.
He was born 08/28/2007 at Winter Haven Hospital. He is survived by his father, Lino Monter-Gomez, his mother, Heather Haider, his stepfather, Sharif Haider, his five sisters, Angelina, Mikayla, Alexandra, Maya, and Paulina, and his Nana, Sylvia Long. He is preceded in death by his Papa, Johnny Long, and his Abuelita, Tomasa.
A memorial will be held by family at a later date.
Minnie “Sybil” Magee Bullock, age 82, of Lake Wales, Florida, started her new life in the actual presence of Jesus on October 24, 2026. She departed much as she lived, with the inner beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.
Born November 2, 1943, in Columbia, Mississippi, Sybil was the daughter of the late Howard G. Magee and the late Edna Earl Speights Magee. She was proud to be the 8th of 9 children and loved her Magee family dearly. She graduated from Bunker Hill High School and made a bold decision for a woman in the 1960s: leaving her small Mississippi hometown to attend Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland, Florida (now Southeastern University). She valued education and was the first in her family to attend and graduate from college. She later earned her Master’s degree from Mississippi College. She taught elementary school for over 30 years–in Avon Park, Florida; Douglasville, Georgia; and even in Guatemala; however, she spent the majority of her career teaching 4th grade at Arlington Elementary in the Pascagoula-Gautier School District in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Sybil was especially proud that her children were products of the same district to which she devoted her career. Suzanne became a second-generation teacher in the PGSD, and Matt was the valedictorian of the PHS Class of 1998.
She married Johnny McArthur Bullock on December 16, 1972, and was a wife of noble character, until he preceded her to eternal life in 2010. Sybil displayed a brilliant mind, a beautiful countenance, and a loving spirit. She poured out her life serving her husband, her children, and anyone who strayed too near her orbit. She was warm, wise, patient and kind. She possessed a gentleness that rested atop a steely-firm integrity and a determined faith in Jesus.
She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Margaret Harvey, Grayson Magee, Edsel Magee, Pittman Magee, Voila Gaddis, and Dan Magee, and by her lifelong friend, Cheryle Harbison.
She is survived by her children, Suzanne Marie Rodolfich and her husband, Dr. Wayne Rodolfich, and John Matthew Bullock and his wife, Jennifer Bullock. She was blessed with 9 grandchildren, Brianna Rodolfich, Jonna Rodolfich, Zanna Rodolfich, Mila Rodolfich, Vin Rodolfich, Veda Bullock, Elijah Bullock, Grayson Bullock, and Penelope Bullock; and 1 great-grandchild, Rosie Applewhite. She is also survived by her wonderful sisters, Ouida Bryant and Linda Forsman as well as her chosen-sister, Anita Hamilton, lifelong friends, Monica Ford, Mary McPherson, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mama’s personality was generally reserved, and she carried herself with an approachable elegance. However, the few moments where she dropped her typical reserve are classic Bullock-family memories.
As a teacher, mom always supported other teachers: we were always in the wrong, and our teachers were always in the right. However, Suzanne vividly remembers the one-time mom marched herself to Cherokee Elementary to have a “discussion” with Suzanne’s 3rd grade teacher. Suzanne will never forget her mom standing up for her, and I suspect, the teacher remembered that “discussion” for the rest of her days as well.
Despite her reserve, Mom felt things deeply. When her emotions were strongly engaged, especially in public where she usually maintained a sensible propriety, they sometimes spilled over in surprising ways. For example, when we went out to eat as a family, whether at Shoney’s or Catalina’s, there would be a moment when someone, usually Dad, made a silly comment, and it quickly escalated around the table until we were all laughing hysterically and uncontrollably. Mom would try to stifle her laughter in an attempt to minimize the public Bullock spectacle, but eventually she too succumbed to tearful laughter that often suddenly morphed into full-on weeping, at which point Dad would quickly ask for the check. This might be heresy, and we’re not sure what the food in heaven is like, but it’s entirely possible that at this very moment, Dad is wrapping an egg roll in a napkin, slipping it into his front shirt pocket while Mom is shaking her head in exhausted happy/sad, mild disapproval only to have him put his arms around her and welcome her home.
Sybil’s was a life well-lived, and she is now, in this moment, beginning the reward around which she organized her earthly life: to know and be known by her Savior, Jesus Christ. We imagine that after reuniting with her parents and our dad, the first welcome she heard was from her older brother, Dan, saying, “Heeyyyy, Baby!” His lifelong nickname for her despite one more baby (Aunt Linda) arriving after her.
Sybil Bullock was a daughter, a sister, a wife, a Mama, a Grams, and a friend. Most notably, she was a good and faithful servant of God, and she did well.
Sybil will be buried beside her husband Johnny in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and her family will host a celebration of life in Mississippi in summer 2027. In lieu of flowers, Suzanne and Matt ask for donations to be made in her name to Wycliffe Bible Translators, P.O. Box 628200, Orlando, FL 32862-2800; Preference for Wycliffe Ministry of Mike and Andrea Bryant, SIL Vanuatu, Acct: 301671. Mike and Andrea are Sybil’s nephew and niece who have faithfully served the Lord in Ethiopia and New Zealand over the last 30 years.
Michael “Mike” Edward Baccus, 74, died October 26, 2026, in the emergency room at AdventHealth Lake Wales following a sudden, brief illness.
Born December 11, 1951, at Camp Gordon in Augusta, Georgia, Mike was the son of Shirley Pohl and Markus Vernell Baccus. He graduated from Melbourne High School in 1969 and subsequently served as a radar technician in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he returned to Florida and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida Technological University (now the University of Central Florida) in 1978. He became a life member of the Delta Sigma Pi professional business fraternity.
After a whirlwind courtship, Mike married his soulmate, Chevon Thompson Baccus, 1983. Their marriage was filled with adventure, laughter, faith and a deep commitment to one another. Together, they enjoyed boating, scuba diving, traveling, community service and simply spending time together and with their beloved Siamese cats. Their shared faith in Jesus Christ was central to their lives, and they were active members of several churches over the years in Orlando, Merritt Island, Port St. Lucie, Jacksonville and Lake Wales.
Mike’s life was defined by a genuine spirit of service and a willingness to lend a hand wherever needed. He was a charter member and served for 10 years as treasurer of Rotary on the Ridge. Among his many contributions, his favorite was donning the costume of Josh the Otter to teach water safety to more than 6,000 pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students. He took great joy in making an important life-saving lesson fun for young children.
His commitment to Rotary extended well beyond his local club. Mike recently received Plus Eight Paul Harris Fellow recognition from The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. He was also a major donor and member of the Paul Harris Society, PolioPlus Society and Bequest Society. He loved attending Rotary International conventions and supporting Chevon during her service as governor of Rotary District 6890, a four-county district. He was affectionately known among Rotarians as the “governor’s arm candy,” a title he wore with pride and a good sense of humor.
For more than 20 years, Mike also served on the board of the Lake Wales Little Theatre, where he found another outlet for his creativity and love of community. He enjoyed acting and co-directing productions with Chevon, but his greatest contributions were often behind the scenes as sound designer and technician and through his ongoing care of the theater’s building and grounds. His dedication was evident until the very end: Just two days before his death, Mike was helping build the set for the theater’s upcoming production.
Mike spent 21 years working for Prudential Property and Casualty Insurance as an adjuster, supervisor and regional reinspector. Ready for a new challenge, he embarked on a second career in education, teaching third-grade and exceptional education students at Ben Hill Griffin Jr. Elementary School in Frostproof. He retired in 2018, but his heart for helping others never retired.
Mike’s spiritual gift was service. Whether spoiling his wife, helping a friend, volunteering for a community organization or tackling a project around the house, he was happiest when doing something for someone else. He enjoyed cooking, yardwork, projects in his workshop, computer games, watching television and spending time with his close friend, Ron Campbell. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished brother and uncle, and a loyal friend.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents. In addition to his wife, Chevon, he is survived by his daughter, Lisa (Matt) Escobar of St. Cloud; sisters Tonya Baccus (Giles) Rainwater of Melbourne, Ramone (George) McCoy of Pahrump, Nevada, and Diane Baccus (Brett) Horsley of Indialantic; and seven nieces and nephews. He was also especially close to Chevon’s sister, Sandy Odom; her best friend, Terri Awesome Miller of Lake Wales; and his lifelong teaching partner, Rosa Hampton Davis.
Family and friends will have two opportunities to celebrate Mike’s life. His sister, Tonya, will host a gathering of family and friends at her Melbourne riverfront home at 4 p.m. Sunday, December 6. An open celebration of Mike’s life will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, December 13, at the Lake Wales Little Theatre, 411 N. Third St., Lake Wales. All who knew and loved Mike are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mike’s name to the Lake Wales Little Theatre or The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales handled final arrangements and cremation. Family and friends will scatter his cremains at appropriate locations.
Mike leaves behind a legacy measured not simply by the years he lived, but by the countless lives he touched. Through his faith, generosity, humor and quiet acts of kindness, he made his community a better place. He will be remembered for his willingness to serve, his love for his family and friends, and the countless ways he made life a little better for those around him.
DAVENPORT, Fla. – A medical helicopter evacuation is underway following a crash involving a motorcycle late Monday morning, November 9, near South Allapaha Avenue and West Williams Street in Davenport.
Daily Ridge has confirmed the helicopter response involves the Orlando Health Air Care Team.
According to Polk County Fire Rescue’s PulsePoint incident listing, the collision was reported at approximately 11:45 a.m. at 1 South Allapaha Avenue, near Davenport City Hall.
Preliminary dispatch traffic indicated the crash involved a vehicle and a motorcycle, with one person reported on the ground. Responders initially requested that a medical helicopter be placed on standby.
Scanner traffic also indicated an engine crew was directed to stage at the Tom Fellows Community Center in preparation for a possible helicopter landing zone.
The patient’s condition and hospital destination have not been confirmed. Details about how the collision occurred were not immediately available. Information reported over dispatch remains preliminary.
Motorists should use caution in the area as emergency crews respond.
Orlando Health Medical Helicopter Responds To Davenport Motorcycle Crash
Haines City Fire Department- One of our favorite events of the year is right around the corner!
The Haines City Fire Department is excited to announce our annual Open House! This year is extra special as we’ll be hosting the event at our brand-new Station 3!
We can’t wait to show you our beautiful, state-of-the-art facility while giving you a behind-the-scenes look at our day-to-day operations.
Bring the whole family out for a day of fun featuring live demonstrations, station tours, bounce houses, and more!
Best of all, admission is completely FREE!
Check out the flyer for all the details. We hope to see you there!
Lake Wales, FL – The Lake Wales Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is launching a nationwide search for its next President & Chief Executive Officer to lead the Chamber into its next chapter.
The President & CEO of the Lake Wales Chamber will be a community leader focused on education, strengthening the business environment, and shaping municipal, county and state policy through partnerships with elected officials, business leaders and community partners to advance the chamber’s goals. The President & CEO will lead chamber operations, strategy and staff, strengthen member engagement and value, build public and private partnerships, and communicate the chamber’s vision. Key priorities include financial stability, fundraising, advocacy, economic development, programs supporting member success, and promoting the vitality and future of Lake Wales.
The Current President & CEO, Skip Alford, has accepted a position with another Florida chamber to be closer to family. During his tenure, he led the Chamber and Economic Development Council’s “Crown Jewel of the Ridge” rebranding; streamlined staff roles and promoted a Chief Financial Officer and Director of Communications and Marketing; launched the twice-monthly “Chamber Rising” executive newsletter and FORGE business network; and developed “Highland Moguls” and a cradle-to-career workforce strategy connecting schools, employers and higher education. His economic-development work included advancing annexation and industrial rezoning of several hundred acres, a Duke Energy site-readiness study, and planning and permitting for Advanced Drainage Systems’ approximately 100-acre manufacturing expansion. He also represented business interests in Lake Wales Envisioned, advocating for employment, investment, infrastructure and responsible growth. He established the annual First Responders Awards Ceremony and Sheriff’s public-safety briefings, facilitated member programs with a U.S. Congressman, the County Supervisor of Elections and local officials, and oversaw business openings, awards, luncheons, leadership programs and community events supporting sponsorships, member engagement and business connections.
The Lake Wales Chamber and Board of Directors extend their heartfelt thanks to Skip for his tireless dedication and the enthusiasm he has brought to building a thriving future for the Lake Wales community.
Interested individuals should submit resumes and cover letters to [email protected] before Monday,November 13th. Please visit http://www.lakewaleschamber.com to read the President & CEO job description.
Established in 1971, the Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce was formed by local merchants and citizens to strengthen ties within the business community, and to capitalize on these relationships to help create an environment where Lake Wales businesses and residents may grow, prosper, and enjoy a high quality of life!
Our Chamber “leads the way” as an advocate for advancement and expansion of business opportunities for current and future entrepreneurs by providing training, venues for interaction, and access to essential information from local and state leaders.
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned pursuant to the fictitious name statutes 865.09 Florida statues will register with the division of corporations of the state of Florida upon receipt of proof of publication of this notice the fictitious name Riptide Aquatics Located in Polk County, Florida that parties interested in said business enterprises are as follows Names or officers Chris Kissinger – President, Alexis DeWees – Secretary, Marie Kissinger – Treasurer.
