Jona-Bells Cafe | Local Valedictorians | Car in Lake Hollingsworth

Our readers are the best

Cindy Glover

Editor

We know LkldNow readers are a special group – thoughtful, civic-minded, invested in Lakeland’s quality of life and looking for facts rather than opinion. But several things happened this week that drove home just how fantastic our readers are.

First, your generosity. We asked if you could help us with a potentially budget-busting $400 public records request. As of this morning, 19 readers had pitched in a total $356 – on top of the monthly contributions many already make. We are humbled and grateful for the extra support. (Click here if you’d like to help us over the finish line.)

Secondly, your enthusiasm for local businesses and events. Old adages in the news industry include “if it bleeds, it leads” and “bad news sells.” But that’s not how we operate at LkldNow and it’s clear that’s not what you want. As of midday, the article we published about Lakeland sisters opening a cafe on the city’s north side had been shared 336 times and garnered more than 2,500 cumulative likes on Facebook. Wow! Many of the most popular posts on our website are about community events or new businesses, and we love that.

Third, your loyalty. We had an unfortunate technical glitch with our Mailchimp service that kicked about 200 subscribers off our email list. We learned about it promptly from readers who noticed that they hadn’t gotten their newsletters. We were able to restore access right away, but in the process, you told us how much you value LkldNow. It was gratifying to hear your feedback. (If you ever have issues receiving emails, please reach out to Trinity at trinity@lkldnow.com.)

We could go on, but suffice it to say: We’re grateful. We might be biased, but our readers are the best. Thank you for all of the ways you support both LkldNow and Lakeland as a community.

Lakeland Man Charged With DUI After Driving Car Into Lake Hollingsworth

Lakes & Stormwater staff on an airboat helped to extract the partially submerged sedan from a thicket of aquatic plants.

Staff Exodus Forces Cancellation of All Surgeries at TLC PetSnip

The future of the low-cost spay/neuter clinic is in doubt as surgeons, medical director, executive director and board members resign abruptly.

Memorial Day Marked With Annual Tribute

U.S. Rep. Scott Franklin spoke to a crowd of about 200 people.

Lakeland Sisters Open Jona-Bells Cafe on City’s North Side

Lake Gibson HS grads Joni and Isabella Wilcox are excited to share their passion for coffee, acai bowls, fresh juices and Brazilian flavors.

Felon’s Escape From Lakeland Regional Prompts Predawn Search

Timothy Tallmadge, 33, was on the loose for three hours near LRHMC.

Meet Lakeland’s 2023 High School Valedictorians

Valedictorians from 10 local high schools shared their accomplishments and plans for the future with LkldNow.

Three Ceremonies to Honor Fallen Service Members

Two events Saturday and one Monday will remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the United States.

CURATED LAKELAND NEWS

Former Lakeland Harley-Davidson owner still riding motorcycles at 90 1/2 | Fox 13 News

Talbot House advances day center proposal for homeless people | News Channel 8

Nuisance plants harvested from Lake Hollingsworth over next two months will be turned into compost | The Ledger

Planned developments may double Bartow’s population from 21,000 to more than 40,000 over next few years | ABC Action News

New documentary shares ‘Trials to Triumph’ of former NFL player who grew up in Lakeland and Bartow | Fox 13 News

Relay for Life | Friday | 6 to 9 p.m. | Lake Mirror Promenade
This signature fundraising event for the American Cancer Society includes a “survivor lap” as well as an emotional luminaria lighting for those who are fighting and those who have been lost. There will be food and entertainment. Attendees are encouraged to bring noise makers and pom poms.

Summer Reading Kick-Off Party | Saturday | 10 a.m. to noon | Larry R. Jackson Branch Library
School is out but the learning can keep going with the Lakeland Public Library’s summer reading programs. Stop by to pick up reading logs and find out about summer activities for kids and adults. There will be lawn games, kids’ crafts, refreshments and more.

Battle of the Badges: PCSO vs. LPD| Saturday | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Joker Marchant Stadium
Lakeland police will play Polk County sheriff’s deputies in a softball game at Tigertown. Following the law enforcement matchup, the Lakeland Flying Tigers will take the field at 6 p.m. for a baseball game against the Jupiter Hammerheads. Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased here.

Side-Hustle Sunday | Sunday | 9 to 10:30 p.m. | Sun Kava, 5711 S. Florida Ave.
Would-be entrepreneurs can get inspiration and advice at this gathering that occurs every week. More than an event, organizers say it’s a community of like-minded individuals focused on building up each other’s prosperity and success.

Check our full calendar