10 Years of LkldNow and a candid conversation on Lakeland’s future
Trinity Laurino
Executive Director
LkldNow is turning 10 this September — and we’re celebrating with a new Candid Conversation.
Past conversations have taken us from the surprising philosophical side of comedian Steve-O (in dialogue with his sister, our own Cindy Glover) to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Gilbert King reflecting on the stories that keep drawing him back to Central Florida.
This year, we’re keeping it closer to home. Three local voices — Barry Friedman, David Bunch and Ana Wood-Rogers — will share how long-term visions can shape the Lakeland of tomorrow. If you spend any time thinking about the future of Lakeland, you won’t want to miss this event.
When: Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025 (Reception 6 p.m., Program 7 p.m.)
Where: Branscomb Auditorium, Florida Southern College
Join us for an evening of storytelling, reflection, and community. This event supports LkldNow’s mission to inform, engage and connect Lakeland. As we mark 10 years, your support helps ensure the next 10.
Ashley Troutman Enters the Race for Lakeland City Commission
Local business owner and community leader with deep Lakeland roots bids for District C Southwest.
26% of responses reported having trouble finding a primary care doctor but 73% have not had any difficulty.
From a LkldNow Sponsor
Fine Art at the Magnolia is a FAM-ily Affair
By Polk Arts and Cultural Alliance
Lakeland’s indoor fine art invitational starts Saturday, August 23.
Polk County School Board Member Rick Nolte Has Died at 69
Nolte, on medical leave since January, was in his first term serving District 3.
Lakeland Raises Impact Fees in Bid to Make Developers Pay for Growth
Increases will add about $4,000 to the cost of a new single-family home over the next four years.
Pulitzer Prize Winner Gilbert King Turns Hit Podcast ‘Bone Valley’ Into a Book
Gilbert King’s new book dives deeper into the 1987 murder case of Michelle Schofield and a decades-long fight for her husband’s exoneration.
Polk School Board Unveils 1 Mill Tax Proposal for Teacher Pay Raises
The question about a four-year property tax increase would be on the 2026 general election ballot.
Lakeland ‘Island Breeze Tiki Bar’ Now Set for 2026 Opening
Beachy décor and island cocktails — downtown’s next hot spot aims to bring a splash of paradise to Main Street.
LAKELAND NEWS FROM OTHER SOURCES
Lakeland Housing Authority gets city’s blessing to demolish 1970s complex for affordable senior housing, but HUD approval could take years | The Ledger
Formerly homeless man credits Lakeland’s ‘Barber Skate Shop’ with changing his life | Bay News 9
More than a quarter of Polk County’s public employees earn less than the local living wage of $43,867 | The Ledger
Final figures show Polk State College enrollment actually increased by 2.5%, after concerns about steep drop | The Ledger
Marriott Vacations will cut 136 jobs at Lakeland office on Oct. 7, but says displaced employees can work for new vendors | Business Observer
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