Michael Dunn Murder Case Meanders Through Court System
It’s said that the wheels of justice move slowly, which is the status quo in the 18-month-old second-degree murder case of former Lakeland City Commissioner Michael Dunn. More
People
Stargel’s Parental Rights Bill Derailed in Committee
A “Parents’ Bill of Rights” sponsored by Sen. Kelli Stargel, R-Lakeland, appears tabled for this legislative session as the Senate Rules Committee let the clock run out as it was being discussed. Stargel says the bill just assembles current statutes in one place. Critics say the bill would create avenues to prevent minors from being treated for STDs or get mental health services without their parents’ knowledge.
Lakeland Teen Heading to Hollywood for ‘American Idol’
Kimmy Gabriela, a 17-year-old senior at George Jenkins High School, is on her way to ABC’s “American Idol” in Hollywood after being called a star by the celebrity panel who judged her audition in an episode that aired Sunday night.
Grady Judd Reflects on Lessons From His Late Father
“He’s the one that gave me my sense of humor,” Sheriff Judd told News Channel 8. “He’s the one that taught me my work ethic. He’s the one that taught me you do what’s right all the time, even if doing right’s painful, even if doing right’s not popular.” Grady Judd Sr. died Saturday; he was 88.
Thompson Resigns as Ledger Editorial Page Editor
Bill Thompson, who became The Ledger’s editorial page editor in November 2014 and shifted the newspaper’s editorial stance from center left to solidly right, has resigned and taken a job closer to his home in Ocala. More
Lakeland Missionaries in Italy Adjust to Coronavirus Restrictions
Pat and Brenda Mahar were able to secure face masks, extra water and other supplies but have to cease holding services at their International Christian Fellowship in Padova, Italy, under restrictions instituted because of the spread of caronavirus.
Chamber Site Search Narrows to 2 Downtown Locations
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce is negotiating on two potential downtown sites to move its offices and establish an entrepreneurship center, new Chairman Matt Clark said in a profile article. “We hope to choose the final site within the next few months,” he said of the two sites — a vacant lot and an established building that would need renovation.
Video: Deployed Army Officer James Ring Surprises Daughters at Dance
U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer James Ring has been away from Lakeland on active duty, but managed to slip back into town to surprise his daughters at a school dance they’ve always attended as a family. Keep scrolling for a video story by Ledger reporter Kimberly Moore or read her article here: More
Larry Durrence, Retired College President and City Commissioner, Dies at 80
Larry Durrence, a retired president of Polk Community College and former Lakeland city commissioner, died of cancer Thursday at age 80. More
Otter Fights Dog, Bites Teen in South Lakeland Home
A south Lakeland teen is being treated for possible rabies after an otter fought her family’s French bulldog, chased it into the house and bit the girl before her mother tackled it and threw it out the back door. Casina and Gwyn Ewert re-enact the scene for News Channel 8.