First United Methodist Church donates $17,000 to support new hygiene facility, aiming to restore dignity and hope for people experiencing homelessness.
Author Archives: Stephanie Claytor
Stephanie Claytor has been a broadcast and digital journalist in Lakeland since 2016, covering Polk County for Bay News 9 and currently free-lancing for LkldNow. She is an author of travel and children's books.
Posted inBusiness
Florida Southern Student Has DNA-Based Skin Care Startup
Brooke Sommers, founder of Dermagenous, is using genetic testing to personalize skin care, with funding and support from Catapult Lakeland.
Posted inBusiness
Lakeland Barber Opens Beauty School, Expanding ‘High Class’ Brand
After Hurricane Maria changed his path, Angel Maldonado built a thriving barbering business in Florida. Now he’s training the next generation of beauty professionals.
Posted inSchools
Florida Poly Student, Professor, Break Through Finding Malware
RAT hunters: At Lakeland’s Florida Polytechnic University, Karim Elish and Nesreen Dalhy used AI to make Android devices safer.
Posted inEvents
Juneteenth Events Tomorrow, Next Saturday
There’s a celebration in Jackson Park tomorrow and a Freedom Festival at Simpson Park next Saturday.
Posted inDining
New Bakeries, More Sweetness
From kitchen to storefront, Mel’s bakery dreams come true — and a Colombian bakery opens on the north side.
Posted inA & E
‘Under the Sea’ theme park opens at LEGOLAND
The new attraction in Winter Haven gets kids close to marine life for thrills and education.
Posted inRecreation
Lakeland Native Takes The Helm at Growing YMCA
TJ Wright began in the Y’s First Tee children’s golf program and never left the organization.
Posted inSports
Meet One of The Most Decorated Athletes in Polk County
Track star Chelsi Williams loves dogs, cats and winning.
Posted inActivism
Lakeland’s Junior League Makes History
Angel Davis becomes the first Black president in the Lakeland group’s long story.