Medicaid fraud arrest | Sun 'n Fun preview | Vasectomy demand rises

As we grow, a promise and a request

Cindy Glover

Editor

Dear readers: I’m honored to be taking the helm of LkldNow’s daily news operations and profoundly grateful that Barry Friedman will still be actively involved supporting our mission and our growth.

There was an inspiring post on Nextdoor a couple of weeks ago. Two Lakeland neighbors on wildly different ends of the political spectrum got together over coffee. They talked about divisive topics including healthcare, guns, education and the environment and were “absolutely shocked” by how much they agreed on.

They didn’t change each other’s minds about anything but they found common ground and confirmed one of LkldNow’s most deeply held values. Quality of life isn’t a red or blue issue. At the neighbor-to-neighbor level, there is far more that unites us than divides us. (And of course, coffee is great no matter how you vote.)

I met with our writers and photographers last week at Black & Brew to discuss the kinds of stories we want to cover as a small-but-mighty nonprofit that’s focused on quality of life in Lakeland. As our organization grows, we have the ability to pursue more stories. But we also have an obligation to avoid sensational or “gotcha” journalism and focus on constructive, well-researched articles that help our readers understand their city better.

LkldNow was built on the integrity of our founder. Barry’s compass points “true north” when it comes to fairness and balance – and that will not change. I share his commitment to old-school, Walter Cronkite-style reporting.

I promise that LkldNow will always strive to be open-minded and impartial in our news coverage. As a nonprofit organization, our loyalty is to our readers. However, we cannot be everywhere. So I also have a request. As a reader, you are an essential part of the conversation. Please share questions, insights and suggestions with us through newstips@lkldnow.com.

Head of Special-Needs Daycare Centers Charged With $400K Medicaid Fraud

Lakeland parents scramble to find care after abrupt closure of four facilities for medically fragile children.

Sun ‘n Fun 2023 Features the Blue Angels and Parking Improvements

New Sun ‘n Fun Director Gene Conrad has introduced changes aimed at a better experience for visitors, pilots and vendors.

City Makes it Easier to Build Affordable Housing in Commercial Zones

Lakeland city commissioners voted unanimously Monday to make it easier for developers to put affordable, multifamily projects alongside warehouses and factories in commercial or light industrial areas of Lakeland.

Polk Plans to Boost Special Ed Funding by $3.1 Million

Massive infusion of resources comes after years of complaints that students were not receiving help.

Local Demand for Vasectomies Is Up, But So Are Wait Times

Lakeland has a limited number of urologists who offer the procedure, which has increased in popularity since the reversal of Roe v. Wade.

CURATED LAKELAND NEWS

Rep. Jennifer Canady of Lakeland signs on as a lead sponsor of the six-week abortion ban bill | The Ledger

Lakeland drag performer Momma Ashley Rose asks legislators to oppose restrictions | News Channel 8

Feed My Sheep CFL says a proposed city ordinance will disrupt its legal efforts to feed the homeless | Bay News 9

Texas Cattle Company reopens on Thursday following February fire | Facebook post

Habitat for Humanity, Lowe’s team up to renovate disabled veteran’s Kathleen home | The Ledger

Florida History: Sheriffs 1821-1945 | Thursday | 6:30 p.m. | Kathleen Heritage Park
Professor James M. Denham of Florida Southern College speaks at a meeting hosted by the Kathleen Historical Society at the park, 8950 N. Campbell Road.

Tunes by the Lake | Saturday | 1-4 p.m. | Colt Creek State Park
An open-air concert amid nature at Colt Creek State Park off State Road 471 north of Lakeland. Shawn Rahn and Friends play at 1, followed by the Sofa Kings at 2. Bring lawn chairs. Free with $4-per-vehicle park admission.

Spring Night Market | Saturday | 4-9 p.m. | Kentucky Avenue
More than 100 vendors will line the street between Lemon and Oak streets and downtown merchants will stay open late. Also, enjoy live music, dancing and dining under the stars. Check a list of vendors.

Punk Rock Flea Market | Sunday | noon to 6 p.m. | Swan Brewing
Check out dozens of vendors, six bands and seven food trucks. Check a list.

Check our full calendar