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Florida’s 2026 Legislative Session Ends: What Passed, What Failed, and What’s Next?
The session has ended — without a budget. From DEI bans to new voter verification requirements, here are some of the bigger bills that passed and failed, and what lawmakers will tackle in special sessions.
Lakeland Bicyclist Dies After Morning Crash On U.S. 98 North
The 67-year-old cyclist was struck by a van near Pyramid Parkway; the driver stayed at the scene.
Many Polk Students Start Kindergarten Already Behind — Local Programs Aim to Change That
62% of Polk County children were not ready for kindergarten in 2024. Can early language skills and programs like Camp READY close the gap?
FSC To Screen ‘The Florida Chitlin’ Circuit’ Thursday, March 12
Author Bob Kealing and musician and WMNF presenter Rev. Billy C. Wirtz will host a film screening and conversation.
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‘A Legacy of Service’: Florida Southern Scholarship Honors Capt. Cody Khork
Parents and friends establish an endowed scholarship to support cadets and preserve the legacy of the Army reservist killed in the opening days of the war with Iran.
Beyond Spring Training: Hundreds of Teams Visit Polk County for RussMatt and THE Spring Games
Baseball and softball tournaments bring more than 600 teams, thousands of visitors, and millions in economic impact to local fields this spring.
LAKELAND NEWS FROM AROUND THE WEB
Kennedy Davenport, Young Artist Winner, Joins the LSO This Saturday, March 7
Davenport, a senior at Harrison School for the Arts, is the recipient of a $3,000 scholarship in honor of Beth Mason.
Lakeland Man Fatally Shot Outside Wally’s Pool Hall
Lakeland Police made an arrest today in the homicide of Steven Magee, a beloved patron of the pool hall.
GMF Steel Career Fair Draws Hundreds of Students to Explore Skilled Trades
Lakeland event connects high schoolers with construction career paths.
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More News
Polk County Taco Week Begins Today, Friday, March 6
From March 6-15, restaurants throughout Polk County will offer specials created especially for Polk County Taco Week.
Free Tax Program Helps Polk County Residents Save Hundreds on Filing
United Way of Central Florida expands its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, increasing daily appointments by 166%.
Cody Khork, FSC Grad and Winter Haven Native, Killed in Iran Conflict
Friends, family, and strangers nationwide took to social media to honor Khork in the days after the attack that claimed his life.
Lakeland Electric’s Newest Customer Service Rep Isn’t Human
AI chatbot “CayLa” will handle routine calls as the utility faces growing demand.
Lakeland Recognizes Beautification Award Winners for March 2026
The city recognized the tropical landscape of Sunnye Harrison’s craftsman bungalow in Lake Morton and the landscaping of the Shoppes at Lake Miriam Crossing.
Catapulting Big Ideas: Lakeland’s Business Incubator Generates $27M in Revenue
The downtown hub serves 280 startups with mentorship, maker space, and micro-grants to help founders move from early concept to scalable company.
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