The leather hatband mimics a deputy’s gunbelt; the sticker inside the crown displays a picture of Judd.
Category: People
Sarah McKay, Civic Leader and Philanthropist, Dies at 98
The Lakeland native was the first woman to chair the boards of major local educational, health and arts institutions.
Meet Florida Southern College’s New President: Jeremy Martin
Martin is the 18th president of the Lakeland college known for its Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings.
Jack Harrell, CEO and Philanthropist, Dies at 68
The Lakeland business titan died after a six-month battle with glioblastoma.
United Way Honorees Recognized For Legacy of Giving
Five people were recognized for their efforts to help Lakeland and Polk County.
Lakeland Woman Played Important Role in Allies’ Victory Over Japan in WWII
Ida Fields Dodd was stationed at the Pentagon and helped U.S. code breakers uncover Japanese battle positions.
Polk Agencies Join Forces To Help Inmates’ Behavioral Health
The program continues after they leave incarceration as Polk County combats a mental health crisis.
Black History Month: Lakeland’s First Black Librarian Impacted Residents’ Lives
Teacher and librarian Elsie Dunbar fought for the city’s first Black library so children could have educational resources.
Longtime Florida Southern College President Announces Retirement
Anne Kerr, who became president in 2004, plans to retire this year. A search for her successor will begin immediately.
Black History Month: Dr. David Simpson Treated All Patients During the Spanish Flu Epidemic
Simpson Park was later named for him.

