Gibson vs. Gibson vs. Gibson? A Confusing City Election Looms
What's in a name? In a confusing prospect for Lake Wales voters, three candidates have filed to run for the District 5 City Commission seat in the April 4 election, and all three... — Updated 2/5/2023
Lake Wales News Contest Offers Great Prizes
Sharp-eyed sleuths have a chance to win one of several different prize packages stuffed with event tickets and gift certificates from area business simply by unraveling a set of... — Updated 2/5/2023
Walesbilt Hotel Lawsuit Inches Forward
The long, seemingly endless tale of the Walesbilt Hotel continues to make its way toward an eventual settlement, although it's a process Walesbilt Hotel LLC seems determined to... — Updated 2/5/2023
Student Killed by Truck at School Bus Stop
Tragedy struck Friday morning as a McLaughlin Middle School student was killed after being struck by a truck while waiting near a school bus stop in the fog. Lake Wales Police... — Updated 2/3/2023
Frostproof Woman Struck, Killed by Truck on US 27
A Frostproof woman died after being struck by a pickup truck on US 27 near the Camp Inn Resort early Tuesday morning. The location is north of Frostproof, and about three miles... — Updated 1/31/2023
City Development Services Director Mark Bennett Resigning
Mark Bennett, the senior planner for the City of Lake Wales and department head of Development Services has announced his intention to leave his post effective in two weeks. City... — Updated 1/27/2023
Crystal Lake Trail Project Drew Public Input, Support at Meeting
Balancing improved public access to the natural beauty of Crystal Lake Park with parking needs and traffic circulation and the effect upon views and wildlife drew a small crowd to... — Updated 2/3/2023
Lake Wales Man Receives Eight Year Sentence for Child Pornography
U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle has sentenced James Wesley Buchanan, 47, of Lake Wales to 8 years in federal prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised released... — Updated 2/3/2023
Rear-end Crash Destroys Vehicles, Street Lights on Scenic Highway
Lake Wales Police are working a traffic investigation as a result of a crash on Scenic Highway. The location of the incident is within a school zone for McLaughlin Middle-Senior... — Updated 1/27/2023
Reinvestment Bankers Find Much to Like During Tour of Lake Wales
An invitation to view and assess potential community investment opportunities in Lake Wales drew representatives from financial institutions looking for opportunities to invest in... — Updated 2/3/2023
- Roundabout Construction Project to Continue Through February
- Crystal Lake Trail Design to be Discussed at Public Workshop
- Major Manufacturing Plant Proposed for Hunt Bros. Road
- Lake Wales Connected Construction Launched With a Flourish
- Lake Wales City Commission Tightens Rules on Public Speaking During Meetings
- New Water Use Standards Adopted by Lake Wales
- Police Arrest Suspect in New Year's Shooting
- Old Bartow Road Roundabout Closing Extended Until February
- Suspect Trenton Shane Tillman Arrested in Theft of Guns, Two Alleged Accomplices Charged
- Dr. King Observances Offer Full Schedule of Events in Lake Wales
- Developer to Build Two New Roads to Serve Hunt Club Projects
- Mayor Orders Police to Clear Commission Chambers After Citizen Protest
- Police Searching for Armed Burglary Suspect After Theft of Weapons
- Theft of City-Owned Truck Leads to Arrest for Frostproof Man
- City, CRA Give Go-Ahead to $18.5 Million Bond Issue
- Televised Highlanders Championship Game or Take the Fan Bus
- Walesbilt Lawsuit Conclusion Chances Raised by City Commissioner
- Commissioner Fitzgerald Expected to Be Reinstated by Governor DeSantis
- Lake Wales Wins State Title in Heart-stopping Finish
- Amar'e Stoudemire Arrested in Miami Only Two Days After Lake Wales Visit
- Frigid Blast Expected to Precede Christmas
- Video Highlights: Lake Wales Kiwanis Christmas Parade Drew Thousands
- Roundabout Construction Road Closure Extended For Additional Month
- US 27 Southbound Lanes to Open Wednesday
- City Pledges $1 Million to Grove Manor Replacement, Approves Phasing Change
- A Tip to Police May Have Averted Tragedy
- Care Center to Renovate Crystal Lake Apartments After Purchase Finalized
- Polk Yard Waste Collection Still Not Complete Months After Hurricane Ian
- UPDATE: Highlanders Win, Advance
- Tennessee Man Apparent Drowning Victim Found in Crystal Lake
- County Declares Emergency Over Garbage Collection Problems
- Musical "Advertising" Leads to Wrong Customers
- Two Men Injured in Shooting, Police Seeking Help From Public
- Surplus Reported as City Finished Fiscal Year
- City Street Resurfacing Effort Takes Three-Mile Step Forward
- Video: Fire Department Warns Turkey Deep Fryers Are A Major Hazard
- "Evolve at Lake Wales" May Provide New Apartments Near Mall
- Contract Awarded, Construction to Begin on Park Avenue Streetscape
- Nicole Passes Over Lake Wales, Limited Impacts Felt
- Search for Human Remains Unsuccessful So Far
- Police Seize Cash, Drugs at Local Motel, Winter Haven Suspect Sought
- Hillpointe Apartment Project May Add 552 Dwelling Units
- Warner University Initiates New Football Facility
- Does Murder Victim Lie Under Lake Wales House? 1990 Cold Case Stirs Emotions at City Commission Meeting
- City Police, Contractor Prepare to Search for Human Remains in Missing Persons Case
- Sub-Tropical Storm Nicole Promises Much Wind, Rain for Lake Wales
- City Land Use Mapping Process to be Reassessed
- Tropical Storm Conditions Expected Here Wednesday and Thursday as Nicole Transitions
- Forecasters Eyeing Potential Development in Bahama Waters
- Lake Wales Receives National Recognition as "Cultural Landscape"
- Agreement Clears Way for Redevelopment of Vacant Downtown Apartment Building
- County Tourism Tax Proceeds to Boost Local Cultural Activities
- Former Commissioner Kris Fitzgerald Acquitted of All Charges
- Seminole Hotel Redevelopment Takes One Step Back, Two Steps Forward
- Polk Waste Collectors Working 12-Hour Days to Handle Hurricane Debris
- Voting Opportunities Abound in Polk
- Arts Center Exhibit Highlights Success of Polk Forever Referendum
- Polk's Disaster Recovery Center Now Open to Assist Residents
- Federal Disaster Assistance Available for Storm Damage Losses Through Small Business Administration
- Despite Dry, Fall-like Weather, Gun-Shy Residents Keep Eye on Tropics
- City Curbside Pickup Postponed
- President Biden's Disaster Declaration Extends Help to Polk
- Voter Registration Deadline Fast Approaching
- Hurricane Debris Hotline Available
- TUESDAY 8:00 PM UPDATE - Hurricane Ian Predicted to Strike Lake Wales
- WEDNESDAY 5:00 PM UPDATE: IAN CARRIES 140 MPH WINDS AS IT HEADS TOWARD LAKE WALES AFTER LANDFALL
- Lake Wales Area "Dodges a Bullet" As Hurricane Ian Passes
- Hurricane Shelters Limited in Polk, Here's the List of Locations
- Polk State Opens Monday, Polk Public Schools on Tuesday
- Lake Wales Area Expected to Experience Direct Impact of Hurricane Ian
- NO Hurricane Shelters Available Across Southeast Polk County
- All Polk County Public Schools Will Be Closed Until Tuesday, October 4
- Police Arrest Tow-Truck Operator, Charged With Theft of Auto
- Lake Wales' Southern Expansion Reaches Blue Lake Area
- Monday Land Use Meeting CANCELLED
- Controversial Small-Lot Development Delayed For Review
- City Continues Development of Affordable Housing With Private Partners
- City Utility May Offer Lower Electric Rates, Commissioners Told
- Shooter Dead, Two Victims Wounded After Incident
- Three New Restaurants Planned For Growing US 27 Corridor
- US 27 Closure This Weekend Promises Traffic Headaches
- New Restaurants Attracted by CRA Incentive Grants
- New Roundabout Construction to Cause Month-long Road Closure
- $117 Million Capital Improvements Plan Eyed by Lake Wales Commission
- Lake Wales Stakes Claim to Exclusive "Utility Service Area"
- Watering Restrictions Remain in Effect
- Bok Tower Garden's Olmsted Landscapes Receive $500,000 Grant
- SR 60 Bridge Project to Require Another Closure of US 27
- Greg Littleton Elected Chair of Polk State Trustees
- City Kayak and Paddleboard Rental Program Reduced, Delayed
- 18th Anniversary of Hurricane Charley Passes Quietly
- Early Voting Now Available in Lake Wales
- Lake Wales Property Values Jump $67 Million, Surpass $1 Billion
- Lake Wales Heritage Advances Plans for Druid Hills Neighborhood
- Lake Wales Police K-9, Violent Felon Killed in Exchange of Gunfire
- Three City Commissioners Vote Themselves Another Raise
- New "Mobility Fee" Approved to Address Cost of New Development
- Lake Wales Residents Should Remain Prepared for Active Hurricane Season
- New Business Incubator to Boost Area Business Growth
- Crystal Lake Trail Project Moving Forward
- Lake Wales Library Seeks Historic Photos
- Absentee Mail Ballots Now Available for August 23 Election
- City Residents Generally Happy With Municipal Services
- City Tax Rate Cut Expected as Valuations Surpass One Billion Dollars
- Lake Wales Resident's $6,000 Water Bill Came as a Shock
- School Board Forum Moved to Virtual Event
- New Voter Cards Will Confirm Your Registration
- Evergreen Property Will Be Restricted to Single Family Homes, Duplexes
- City Commission Approves Commercial Use for South 11th Street
- Police Seek Shooter Still at Large
- Railroad Corridor Landscaping to Enhance "Garden City" Effort
- Another 1,020 Unit Subdivision Planned for South Side of Lake Wales
- Soto Seeks Grant to Support First Street Reconstruction
- Polk County Seeks Citizens to Serve on Panel
- Independence Day Festivities Offered in Lake Wales
- Florida Avenue Closures Intended to Alleviate School Traffic Issues
- Polk School Board Candidates Will Participate in Lake Wales Forum
- New Roundabouts, Trails Planned for Buck Moore Corridor
- Lake Wales Police Arrest Construction Site Thieves
- Wayne Rodolfich Shares Vision During "Power Lunch"
- CRA Withdraws Offer for "Clark's Corner," Balks at Environmental Study
- Work Underway on SR 60 East of Lake Wales
- CRA Moving Forward With Bonds to Fund Connected Plan
- New 12" Water Main Expected to Enhance Supply, Fire Protection
- City Earns Black Eye With Fumbled Proclamation
- History Museum Launches Appeal to Complete Collections and Research Center
- Hurricane Season Begins With First Threat
- Lake Wales Proposed Development Total Passes 12,000 Unit Mark
- Only One Hurricane Shelter Available for All of Southeast Polk
- New Apartments Contemplated for Chalet Suzanne Road
- Neighborhood Shopping Center Proposed for Hunt Bros. Road
- CRA Agrees to Purchase Building After Receiving Incorrect Information
- Church Likely to Appeal Planning Board Density Recommendation
- Rotary to Host Speaker Series Focused on Downtown Revitalization
- Barney Moore, Inspirational Community Leader, Dead at 61
- City "Connected" Plan Receives Million-Dollar Boost
- City Hires New Deputy City Manager
- Second High School Proposed for Lake Wales
- School Board Trustee Arrested
- Lake Wailes Park to Offer Kayak Rentals
- City to Install Large Live Oak in Arbor Day Observance
- City Approves Large Mobile Home Development on 4-1 Vote
- "Olmsted Day" Offers a Fun Lake-side Festival April 30
- Lake Wales Heritage Earns Recognition from Dyer Kia and Chevrolet
- Armed Robbery of Gate Service Station Reported
- Oguntola Issues Plea for Charter School Peace
- New Magnolias Planted Along Lakeshore Boulevard
- Heart-Trained Missionaries Helping Change Lives Around the Globe
- Downtown Merchants, Property Owners Hear Presentation on Connected Plan
- Hilligoss Wins Mayoral Race, Krueger Elected to City Commission
- Campaign Finances Show Questionable Expense, Possible Violation
- Sheriff Denies Any Endorsement in City Elections
- Anonymous Video Attacks Mayoral Candidate
- Warnings Issued to Private Businesses, Citizens About Potential Cyber Attacks
- CRA Housing Rehab Program Offers Help to Northwest Neighborhood
- Portion of Third Street to Close Permanently Wednesday
- Groundbreaking Effectively Starts Construction of Connected Plan
- Annual Inter-faith Sunrise Service to Mark Easter at Bok Tower Gardens
- Lake Wales Heritage to Plant New Magnolias
- Downtown Property Redevelopment on the Upswing
- Olmsted Connected Lake Wales With Mountain Lake, Bok Tower Gardens
- T Mobile Gives City $48,000 Toward Landscaping "City in a Garden"
- Crystal Lake Trail Groundbreaking Happens April 4
- Candidates' Finance Reports Reveal Support, Differing Strategies
- Elections Health Precautions May Affect You on April 5
- Chamber of Commerce Organizes Another Election Forum
- Five City Candidates Discussed Issues At Monday Forum
- Edward Bok's Vision For Lake Wales Grew Beyond HIs Gardens and Tower
- City's Horticulture Department Kicks up the Charm for Lake Wales
- Commissioners Hilligoss, Williams Kill Resolution Supporting Charter School System
- CRA Board Approves Sale of Lot for New Lincoln Avenue Restaurant
- City Commission Chooses 30-year Bonds Over Bank Financing
- "Frustrated" Mayor Complains About Absence of Commissioners
- Lake Wales to Receive $800,000 From Federal Budget to Boost Connected Plan
- Crooked Lake Park Area to be affected by New Interlocal Agreement
- Commission Workshop Hears Multiple Housing Development Project Proposals
- Lake Wales Police Respond to Call About Shots Fired
- Commissioner Williams, Not Hilligoss, Apparent Source of Mayor's Ire
- Monday Forum Will Allow Citizens to Question Candidates
- Lake Wales to Create Tree Advisory Board
- CRA Adds Central Avenue Bicycle Track to Connected Plans
- "State of the City" is Good, Mayor Says in Annual Report
- Commission and Mayoral Candidates Answered Questions From the Public
- Bok Tower Garden's Geert D'hollander Wins Olmsted 200 National Competition
- LakeWalesNews.Net, 60 Minutes News Show Intersect Here
- City Initiates Land Use Study to Guide Future Development in Lake Wales
- Charter School Trustees Choose Dr. Wayne V. Rodofich to Lead System
- City Candidates' Forum Happens Monday Night
- Connected Plan Revives the Goal of City's Founders
- Scenic Highway and Mountain Lake Intersection Construction Continues
- County Suspends Recycling? Not Here!
- Central Avenue To Be Closed West of US 27 For Three Weeks
- Charter School Superintendent Vote Happens Tuesday
- Six Candidates Qualify for Two Open City Seats
- Qualifying Opens for City Mayor, Commission Posts
- Road Closing For Railroad Repair Moves South
- Lake Wales Housing Authority, CRA Agree to Continue Cooperative Approach
- Goldstein Withdraws From City Commission Race
- Local Event One of Hundreds of Concerts, Celebrations for Frederick Law Olmsted Bicentennial
- Ideological Group Seeks to Influence Superintendent Selection
- Superintendent Search Controversy Deepens
- Jennifer D'hollander Leaving Lake Wales History Museum
- City, CRA File 12-Count Lawsuit Against Dixie Walesbilt LLC
- Public Has Opportunity to Meet Superintendent Finalists Today
- Superintendent Finalists Met the Community Thursday
- Abandoned Signs A Headache for Development Services
- Affordable Housing Public-Private Partnership Paying Off in Lake Wales
- Hunt Brothers Road to be Closed at Florida Midland Railroad During Repairs
- High School Principal Donna Dunson Retains Legal Counsel
- Charter School Superintendent Search Committee Recommends Three Finalists
- Green Gables Location to be Rezoned for Apartments
- City Proceeds With Suit Against Dixie Walesbilt LLC
- City Commission Approves Park Avenue Connector Trail Project
- New Traffic Light Planned for Scenic Highway at Mountain Lake Road
- City, Civic Groups Plan Celebration of Olmsted Heritage Parks
- City Development Services Adds Staff to Keep Up With Surge in Proposals
- Lake Wales Artist Sought for Huge Project Grant
- Election Workers Sought to Assist in Voting Process
- 600-unit Development to feature 152 Townhomes Near Winn-Dixie
- City To Expand Again With Large Voluntary Annexations
- Walesbilt Hotel Proposal Still Alive, Under Deadline to Avoid Suit
- Lake Wales Investors Purchase Friedlander Building With Plans for Apartments, Restaurant
- Lake Wales Observes Martin Luther King Jr. Day With Events
- Lakeshore Club Villas May Qualify for Federal Infrastructure Funds
- First New SR 60 Bridge Beams Set Despite Inclement Weather
- Lake Wales Theatre Cancelled January 21-23 Due to Covid Cases
- City Gets Title to Seminole Hotel, Prepares to Give it to CRA
- US 27 Closure to Impact Traffic This Weekend
- Six Candidates Remain in Charter School Superintendent Search
- "Traffic-geddon" Coming To Lake Wales as US 27 Closing Causes Detours
- KT Sunshine Festival is This Weekend in Lake Wailes Park
- Looking Back: The Top Ten News Stories of 2021 in Lake Wales
- City, Walesbilt Developers Open Negotiations With a "Productive" Meeting
- Actions by City, FDOT Open New Potential Apartment Site on Twin Lakes
- Lake Wales Airport Seeing Significant Growth, Improvements
- City Commission Agrees To Negotiate Hotel Deal Under Deadline
- Scenic Bluffs Development Receives Final Approval
- Work Progresses On Historic Restoration Project
- Lake Wales Library Cuts Hours Temporarily Due to Staff Shortages
- Future Transportation Maps Show Course of New Parkway Through Lake Wales
- High-Speed Fiber Optic Internet Coming to Lake Wales
- Is Walesbilt Hotel Project On Verge of Success?
- Still More Details Emerge of Walesbilt Hotel Redevelopment Deal
- City Commission To Consider Suit To Regain Walesbilt Hotel
- County Approves Subdivision Near Timberlane Road
- Christmas In Lake Wales Means Giving and Delights
- Charter School Superintendent Search Enters Next Phase
- Six Students Arrested After Lunch-Hour Fight at High School
- Historic Building Restoration Leads to Mystery
- What Do You Like About Lake Wales? We'd Like to Know
- City Commissioners Wrestle With Growth Challenges in Workshop
- Downtown Streetscape Plans May Expand to Portions of Orange, Crystal Avenues
- Superintendent Candidate Field Narrows to Eight
- Thousands Turn Out to Herald Holidays, Welcome Santa
- City Commission Approves Purchase of Seminole Hotel Despite Last-Minute Appeal of Kebabjian
- A Christmas Tree That Will Live For Hundreds of Years? It's Available
- New Fishing Column Added to Local Coverage
- City Asks For Participation in "Community Conditions Survey"
- City Surprises New Florida Veterans' Department Head With Recognition
- City Gets Seminole Hotel Under Settlement Terms
- Dramatic Video of Crash as Police Cruiser, Two Other Vehicles Destroyed in Crash
- "Empty Bowls" Effort Will Help Feed Hungry in Our Community
Skydivers Build Massive Canopy Stacks at Lake Wales Airport
A team of skydivers from a dozen nations cooperated to build canopy stacks of a 54 and 65 persons at Lake Wales Airport this week while descending from well above 10,000 feet. The... — Updated 1/13/2023
Lake Wales Highlanders Top Daytona Mainland to Win Championship
The Lake Wales Highlanders have completed a perfect 15-0 season with a 32-30 win over Daytona Mainland to win their first state championship. After falling behind early by a 10-0... — Updated 12/17/2022
Highlanders Advance to State Championship Game With 37-7 Win
The Lake Wales Highlanders won their semi-final football game Friday night and will face the Mainland Buccaneers of Daytona Beach in the state Class 3S Championship game, which... — Updated 12/21/2022
Battle of the Lakes is New Trophy Bass Competition
Anglers: Compete in new trophy bass fishing competition, Battle of the Lakes! The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites you to participate in the Battle... — Updated 11/27/2022
Highlanders Defeat All Saints by 3-0 Score, Advance to Semi-final Match
Lake Wales High School's athletics programs continue to find success, as the men's soccer program advanced to the Polk County Champion's League semi-final game with a 3-1 victory... — Updated 12/3/2022
Highlanders Advance to Final Four in State Football Title Hunt
UPDATE: GAME TIME CHANGED TO 7:00 BY FSHAA See new story in NEWS section The Lake Wales Highlanders captured the Regional Championship and advanced to the final four in the state... — Updated 12/1/2022
Highlanders Face Title Game Against Tough Zephyrhills Team
UPDATE: Highlanders Advance. See the story here A Friday night Regional Championship game will be the first hosted at Lake Wales' Legion Field in memory, according to long-time... — Updated 11/26/2022
Highlanders Vanquish Vanguard, Will Host Regional Title Game at Legion Field
The Lake Wales Highlanders took another step forward toward their long-denied state football title Friday night as they defeated the Ocala Vanguard Knights 40-0. The Knights had... — Updated 11/24/2022
Lake Wales Highlanders Open State Title Campaign Against Auburndale Friday
The undefeated and top-seeded Lake Wales High School Highlanders football team has drawn a rematch with the eight-seeded Auburndale Bloodhounds in the first round of the Regional... — Updated 11/17/2022
Highlanders Advance in Football Playoffs Despite Sloppy Play
The top-seeded Lake Wales Highlander football team advanced their 2022 playoff hopes Friday night at Legion Field with a decisive 34-10 victory over the eighth-seed Auburndale... — Updated 11/12/2022
- Low Water Presents Hazards for Fishers, But Catches Being Made
- Tropical Weather System Left Little to Raise Fishing Hopes
- Low Water Still Affecting Fishing on Area Lakes
- Fishing Still Active as Rains Begin
- Bluegill Still Hot Targets, Bass Can be Found
- University, High School Student Sports Reporters Sought
- Bluegills and Shellcrackers are Feasting Now
- Catfish, Bass and Shell Crackers the Hot Targets Now
- Shell Crackers Drawing Crowds to Lake Kissimmee
- Highlanders to Induct Five Into Hall of Fame
- After a Bout With Winds, Fishing is Back on the Agenda
- Changing Seasons Mean Changes in Fishing Tactics
- Fishing Has Heated Up, It's Time to Get On The Water!
- Walk-in-the-Water Stocked With Prize-Winning Tagged Bass
- There's Fishing Action If You Know Where to Look
- The Full Moon in March Brings Some Big Fishing Action
- Fish are On The Move This Week With Changing Weather
- Highlanders Open Baseball Season Wednesday Against Mulberry
- Extremely Low Water Starting to Affect Fishing
- Fishing Still Spotty as Weather Heats Up
- Send Us Your Photos To Include in Our Fishing Report
- Highlander Girls Hope to Bring Home a Basketball Title
- Bass are Starting to Move into Shallow Water as Temperatures Rise Again
- Florida Poly Women's Powerlifting Readies for National Title Competition
- How Lake Wales is Affected by the Chinese Winter Olympics
- There's Some Hot Fishing Action on Area Lakes
- Big Bass Are Getting Active on Area Lakes
- Big Bass Are Biting Now, So Let's See Where the Action Is
- The Fish Aren't Taking A Holiday on Area Lakes
- Largemouth Bass May Become Commercial Fish
- This Week's Fishing Report Shows Where the Action Is
- The Weekly Fishing Report Will Guide You To 'Em
- Fish Are Biting, If You Know Where to Try
- Bass Fishing Tournament Draws Hundreds to Camp Mack Saturday
Polk County Schools Offers New Tutoring Program
Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) and Varsity Tutors have launched a new online tutoring partnership that brings live instruction and lessons to 40,000 students across the... — Updated 1/24/2023
Scholarships Offered By Elections Chief Lori Edwards to Area Students
Four $1,200 scholarships will be offered to Florida students in 2023 by Polk County Supervisor of Elections Lori Edwards. Edwards has offered the scholarships each year for a... — Updated 1/21/2023
Polk Schools Graduation Rate Falls
Polk County Public Schools’ graduation rate decreased to 78.3 percent in 2021-2022, according to the latest data released today by the Florida Department of Education. District... — Updated 1/15/2023
Polk State Classes Begin, But Enrollment Still Open
Classes have started at Polk State College, but there is still time to enroll for the Spring 2023 Semester. Registration continues for 12-week classes, which will start on February... — Updated 1/9/2023
Florida's Natural Growers Foundation Awards $4,000 to Victory Ridge Academy
A $4,000 grant from Florida's Natural Growers Foundation will support Victory Ridge Academy's School Wide Behavior Management System, school officials have announced. Victory Ridge... — Updated 12/26/2022
NBA Great Amar'e Stoudemire Guest at McLaughlin Gym Groundbreaking
Thursday was an exciting day for both students and administrators of Lake Wales' McLaughlin Middle/High School as they broke ground for a new $15 million gymnasium, and welcomed... — Updated 12/21/2022
Area Students Offered Free Saturday Extra-Credit Experience, Ideal for College-Bound
Lake Wales area students in high school or middle school levels are able to sign up for a one-time special Saturday class that will leave them with surprising facts about our... — Updated 12/9/2022
Lake Wales High Students Handle Surgical Robot At AdventHealth Lake Wales
A rare opportunity to touch and operate a surgical robot got a group of Lake Wales High School medical academy students excited this week, after AdventHealth Lake Wales offered... — Updated 12/12/2022
Lake Wales 4th and 5th Graders Meet in Annual "Elementary Turkey Bowl" November 15
Student athletes from four local elementary schools will meet on the gridiron in an afternoon ideal for family fun. Students from Janie Howard Wilson, Hillcrest, Polk Avenue, and... — Updated 11/6/2022
Middle and High School Students Offered Free Extra-Credit Educational Program
A special free learning opportunity is being offered to area Middle and High School students, who will learn and earn a special completion certificate as "Student Naturalists."The... — Updated 11/6/2022
- AdventHealth and Bond Clinic Provide Free Sports Physicals to Polk County Students
- McLaughlin School Gathers Input for New High School
- Polk State Open Enrollment Begins June 6
- Polk State College to Offer New Degree in Human Resources
- Polk Announces Annual Student Art Contest
- Webber Students Dominate Future Business Leaders of America District Competition.
- Elections Supervisor Lori Edwards Offering Scholarships
- Three Florida Polytechnic Scientists Ranked Among Globes' Top Two Percent
- Federal Funds Allow Polk State to Forgive Student Debt
Maggie Mae's Ice Cream Shop Adds to Growing Downtown Variety
A growing business community in downtown Lake Wales got a bit stronger this week. The official ribbon-cutting for Maggie Mae's Ice Cream Shop attracted a crowd of fans and... — Updated 2/3/2023
Eric Edwards Promoted to General Manager at Mahalak Auto Group Fiat
Eric Edwards has been appointed General Manager at Alfa Romeo FIAT of Winter Haven, according to a statement issued by Mike Mahalak, president of the Mahalak Auto Group. "We are... — Updated 1/30/2023
Dyer Difference Award Recognizes KT's Sunshine Foundation
Sometimes even pain and disaster can lead to blessings for others. Such was the result of the tragic death of 22 year-old Kaitlyn Kinard. Just as the rest of the world was going... — Updated 1/17/2023
Ribbon Cutting Marks Change of Ownership, Bed Count Expansion at "The Club"
A gathering of community and Chamber of Commerce leadership were present at noon Thursday to mark a new name and new ownership of the former Savannah Court assisted living... — Updated 1/13/2023
All Veterans Center Receives Dyer Difference Award, Grant
Feeding veterans and their families and aiding in preventing suicides is a pretty significant contribution to Polk County residents, and the Dyer family has taken the time to... — Updated 1/1/2023
Rural Entrepreneurs Face Greater Economic Challenges
Rural small businesses face greater challenges to economic recovery and are less optimistic about the future compared to their non-rural counterparts, according to new survey data... — Updated 12/13/2022
City Funds Recruitment Effort to Attract New Businesses
A concerted effort to attract new businesses to Lake Wales now includes the hiring of a consulting firms to help market the area to prospective retail and restaurant chains. The... — Updated 10/27/2022
County Clerk Stacy Butterfield Preserves Polk's Original Deed Book
A major step to preserving the history of Polk County was trumpeted during a recent presentation to the Polk County Board of County Commissioners by Stacy Butterfield, Polk County... — Updated 9/9/2022
Layoffs at CSX Intermodal Avoided by Settlement
The efforts of the US Transportation Secretary Marty Walsh and direct intervention by President Joe Biden have succeeded in averting a nationwide strike that would likely have led... — Updated 9/15/2022
Locorrito Expected to Lead Wave of New Restaurant Openings in Lake Wales
A spurt of new restaurant development will soon be offering a wider range of choices for Lake Wales residents. The growing list has risen to seven new food and beverage outlets.... — Updated 10/17/2022
Invasive Snakehead Fish a New Threat to Florida
A population of non-native aggressive, air-breathing fish known as the goldline snakehead (Channa aurolineata) was documented for the first time in the Gulf Coast region, according... — Updated 1/24/2023
District Asks Homeowners to "Skip a Week" of Irrigation this Winter
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) is reminding residents who irrigate their lawns to "Skip a Week" or more of watering during the cooler months of January... — Updated 1/10/2023
Polk Seeks Volunteers to Direct Lake Access
Polk County commissioners are looking for volunteers who would like to serve on the county's Lake Access Advisory Committee. The Lake Access Advisory Committee studies how to... — Updated 12/27/2022
Several Polk Environmental Lands Sites Reopen to the Public
Several Polk County Environmental Lands sites have reopened to the public following Hurricane Ian, including Crooked Lake Prairie, Crooked Lake Sandhill, Gator Creek Reserve,... — Updated 10/5/2022
Hurricane Ian Closes All Polk Environmental Lands Closed Effective Monday
In preparation for the approaching storm, all Polk County Environmental Lands sites and Natural Resources Stormwater Treatment Wetlands will be closed Monday, September 26, 2022... — Updated 9/26/2022
Plenty of Floridians Enraptured by Migration's Many Mysteries
As Floridians say goodbye to Swallow-tailed Kites for the year, we get ready to welcome a new wave of visitors on their cross-continental journey. Be on the lookout for a host of... — Updated 8/26/2022
Learn to Attract Florida Wildlife to Your Property
If you are a lover of nature and wildlife, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission would like to invite you to learn how to attract wildlife to your yard by planning... — Updated 8/4/2022
Florida's Butterflies Have Their Special Appeal
There's nothing quite like a bird in flight but Florida's butterflies have their own appeal. Over 190 butterfly species have been recorded in Florida, the most of any state east of... — Updated 8/20/2022
Avoid Overwatering Your Lawn During the Rainy Season
Did you know that over-watering can weaken your lawn's roots, and stimulate the growth of fungus and other lawn diseases? Despite near-daily rains during the summer, many residents... — Updated 6/19/2022
Polk Forever Seeks Artists To Honor, Support Land Preservation in Juried Show
Depictions of the beauty and diversity of Polk's county-managed environmental preserves are the focus of a juried art competition being organized by Polk Forever, a local... — Updated 6/29/2022
- Volunteers Build and Monitor Nest Boxes for Kestrels
- Avian Influenza Confirmed in Wild Birds in Florida
- 5,000 young Long Leaf Pines to be Planted in Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
- Providing Homes for Nesting Birds is a Rewarding Effort
- US Forest Service is in Paradigm Shift To Use Logging, Controlled Burns
- Cutting Christmas Trees: Good or Bad for the Environment?
- Waiving Rules for Moving Florida Gopher Tortoises Helps Only Developers
- Public Comment Invited on Kissimmee Chain Management Plans
- Feds dragging their feet on a plan to feed starving Florida manatees
EDITORIAL: Limiting Speech at Commission Meetings Is a Bad Idea
Stifling Dissent is Not a Solution The essential freedoms that we often take for granted as Americans set us apart from much of the world, where speaking out against a government... — Updated 1/4/2023
Polk Forever Provides a Way to Help Slow Runaway Development
The crush of development pressure that has been applied to Lake Wales by the owners of large tracts surrounding the city has raised alarm in many quarters. Ownership of land... — Updated 7/29/2022
Why LakeWalesNews.Net Will Not Endorse in City Races
As the campaigns that will shape the election of a mayor and city commissioner come to a close, some have asked whether our editorial board will endorse any of the five candidates.... — Updated 4/2/2022
A Disservice to Students, Parents, Community
Lake Wales has been blessed by the creation of the Lake Wales Charter Schools system nearly two decades ago. Now representing seven schools educating students in grades 1 through... — Updated 3/19/2022
Solar Energy Takes Hit From Florida Legislature
As Russian tanks roll into Ukraine and global energy supplies are pinched, rising prices are driving home the point that dispersed sources of renewable energy are critical to our... — Updated 3/18/2022
City Investment in Walesbilt Project Justified
Symbols of Success and Failure Long recognized as the dominant symbol of downtown Lake Wales, the eleven-story Walesbilt Hotel is now among the dominant topics of conversation in... — Updated 1/19/2022
Net Metering Bills Are An Affront To Florida Freedoms
The energy demands of the Sunshine State are rising apace of our booming population. New homes, schools, and businesses need electricity in plenty. The problem for Florida is that... — Updated 1/18/2022
Proposal for Partisan School Boards a Bad Idea
Democracy relies upon "the consent of the governed" to function. Consent implies an understanding of the questions of importance to the populace, which in turn requires an educated... — Updated 12/13/2021
Lake Wales Annual Mardi Gras to Feature Multiple Events
It's that zany time of year for thousands of celebrants who will participate in the annual Lake Wales Mardi Gras, with festivities running from February 11 through 21. Between two... — Updated 2/2/2023
⸮ƨiʜT bɒɘЯ υoY nɒƆ - Contest Offers Great Prizes to Clever News Readers!
LakeWalesNews.net is offering readers a chance to claim one of several prize packages worth up $100 or more in a fun contest that will be published on the website during the next... — Updated 2/2/2023
Lake Wales Car Show Celebrates 13th Year Saturday
Ideal weather and a special anniversary celebration will make this weekend's Lake Wales Car Show an extra draw. The monthly show of antiques, classics and hot rods of all sorts and... — Updated 1/29/2023
Zany Times as LWLT Cast Gets "Lost (and Found) in Ikea
Getting lost inside an enormous Ikea store leads to zany discoveries for one young couple and their "ghostly" matchmakers in the latest production from Lake Wales Little Theatre,... — Updated 1/23/2023
KT'S Sunshine Foundation Brings BBQ and Music to Lake Wailes Park
KT's Sunshine Foundation will host the Southern Sunshine BBQ & Music Festival this weekend in Lake Wailes Park, drawing thousands of fans for the fun, and the purpose. The... — Updated 1/20/2023
Christmas Parade Rolls Saturday at 6:00 pm
Music, tens of thousands of lights, and the official arrival of Santa Claus will mark the Lake Wales Christmas Night Parade, sponsored annually by the Kiwanis Club of Lake Wales.... — Updated 12/12/2022
Woman's Club Offers Traditional "Dickens Christmas" Experience
Traditional music, costumed characters, and an "English Pub Feast" are in store for up to 80 guests quick enough to obtain a ticket to the annual "Old-Fashioned Dickens Christmas"... — Updated 12/9/2022
Circle of Friends Thanksgiving Celebration Happens Saturday
The Circle of Friends will be celebrating Thanksgiving this Saturday, November 19, beginning at 11:00, and are inviting the entire community to join them in the Historic District... — Updated 11/15/2022
The Ball Brothers to Appear In Lake Wales November 30
Fans of Christian music will have a rare treat as the First Presbyterian Church brings the Ball Brothers to Lake Wales for a single free concert on Wednesday, November 30,... — Updated 10/31/2022
"The Outsider" Skewers Politics and Celebrates Democracy
With election season upon us, Lake Wales Little Theatre is presenting a timeless and hilarious comedy that skewers politics and celebrates democracy. The action takes place in the... — Updated 10/31/2022
- Aaron Tippin to Headline Lake Wales Concert
- Lake Wales Mardi Gras Expected to Draw Tens of Thousands to City
- Mardi Gras Party to Open Festivities on February 19th
- Lake Wales' Newest Restaurant Expands Dining Choices
- Theatre Review: "Ripcord" Offers an Evening of Entertaining Fun
- "Ripcord" Offers Evening of Entertainment at Lake Wales Little Theatre
- Polk Senior Games Offer Fun, Competition
- Enjoy a Historical Christmas at Lake Wales History Museum Party
Be Safe as You Work Outdoors
(NAPSI)-Spring is coming, and as we get out our lawn mowers and other outdoor power equipment from storage to work in our yards, businesses and other green spaces, it's important... — Updated 2/5/2023
Bennett Reflects on Years of Change
It was a relaxed Mark Bennett who shared his thoughts about the many changes both ahead and behind in Lake Wales and Polk County recently. Bennett is stepping down as director of... — Updated 2/2/2023
First Responders Honored at Chamber Luncheon
Representatives of three different first responder organizations were honored at a special luncheon organized by the Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce. The event, held at the... — Updated 2/3/2023
History Speaker Series to Feature Local Author
The Lake Wales History Museum will resume its popular speaker series with a presentation on Florida's past presented by guest speaker and local historian Robert Connors. Connors is... — Updated 2/3/2023
Empty Bowls Raises Nearly $20,000 for Care Center Programs
Lake Wales neediest families will be a good bit less so thanks to the generosity of the 300 guests who packed the Family Life Center of the First Presbyterian Church Tuesday... — Updated 2/3/2023
Bruce Stephenson to Present at Bok Tower Gardens
A special presentation by noted urban planner Bruce Stephenson will take place at Bok Tower Gardens at 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 28. Stephenson is a consultant and a professor... — Updated 1/27/2023
A Stress-free Valentine's Day Wedding? Join Other Couples on the Steps of Historic Courthouse
"One of the most stressful parts of getting married is planning the wedding," according to Polk County Clerk & Comptroller Stacy M. Butterfield. Now Butterfield is offering a... — Updated 1/23/2023
Annual Empty Bowls Auction is January 31
Enjoying the beauty of art and accomplishing an important social work at the same time is more than enough to draw a crowd to the annual Empty Bowls Action, and the 2023 edition is... — Updated 2/1/2023
Central Florida and the Aftermath of Hurricane Ian - How Lake Wales Can Prepare for the 2023 Storm Season
Hurricane Ian is estimated to have caused more than $60 billion in private insured losses in Florida, effectively making it the second-largest disaster loss event on record,... — Updated 1/20/2023
Registration Open for Polk Senior Games
There's still time to register for those wishing to compete in the annual Polk Senior Games, but that window is closing fast!. The games are an annual two-week series of 33... — Updated 1/23/2023
- "The Outsider" Offers Needed Laughs at the Expense of Politics
- Students Can Earn Special Certificate on Lake Wales Patrimony
- Breast Cancer Foundation Receives Dyer Difference Award
- What You Think You Know About Homebuying Can Hurt You
- Polk County Clerk Offers New "Do it Yourself" Legal Filing Service
- Painting Raffle to Benefit AAUW Scholarship Fund
- Help Sought to Landscape City Streets
- Cancer Patients Benefit From "Cleaning for a Reason"
- Free Legal Hotline in English and Spanish Available to Hurricane Victims
- Seven Rivers Water Festival Happens This Weekend
- Does Freedom of Speech Include Freedom to Film?
- Ridge Scenic Highway 39-Mile Yard Sale Happens November 3
- Polk County Seeks Volunteers to Help Steer Community Redevelopment Programs
- Area Crafters and Vendors Invited to Participate at Visit Central Florida
- Lake Wales Youth Football Receives Dyer Difference Award and $3,000
- Clear Choice Dermatology Celebrates First Anniversary With Plan for the Future
- Book Launch Event to Recognize Local Author
- Rotary On The Ridge Doubles Membership, Wins Award
- Lake Wales' Carl Hadden Named as Regional Director of Small Business Development Center
- Museum Seeks Community Support to Protect Collections
- Answering Parents' Most Common Questions About COVID Vaccines For Kids
- Care Center Invites Public to Join Bike Event Friday
- Local Actor Sees His Feature Film Premier In Lake Wales
- AdventHealth Lake Wales Achieves Leapfrog Grade "B" in Patient Safety
- Lake Wales Podiatrist Offers Focused Diabetes Care
- Faithful Gather in Park For Good Friday Observance
- Bone Marrow Gives the Gift of Life
- Middle School Girls Learn to be Fearless at Weekend Camp
- Local Resident J. Lawton Lilly Assigned to 7th Fleet in Pacific
- Olmsted's Lake Wales Landscape Plans Preserved Existing Oaks
- Polk Healthcare Plan Now Includes Behavioral Health Coverage
- A National Audience of Veterans Listens to Lake Wales Radio Show
- AAUW to Honor Three Local "Women Who Made History"
- Free Food to be Offered at B Street Center
- Lake Wales' "Garden City" Roots Run Deep
- Citizens Invited to Join Countywide Effort to Keep Polk County Beautiful
- State Parks Offer Scholarships Through Junior Ranger Program
- Mobility is a Gift for Jordan Colon
- Autumn Cochella Earns Certification As City Planner
- A New Certification Came Naturally to Stephanie Edwards
- New City Communications Director Hopes to Reach More Citizens
- Paralysis Research Shows Promise
- New Museum Curator Enjoys "Touching History"
- History Museum Hosts "Black Masculinity in Florida" Program
Sharon Van Dyne Lawrence, 1938-2023
Sharon Van Dyne Lawrence of Frostproof, Florida passed away Monday, January 30, 2023 at The Club at Lake Wales in Lake Wales, Florida. She was born June 27, 1938 in Martins Ferry,... — Updated 2/2/2023
Raymond Lee French, 1930-2023
Raymond Lee French of Babson Park passed away Thursday, February 2, 2023 at his residence. He was born August 10, 1930 in Kalamazoo, Michigan; he moved to Babson Park from West... — Updated 2/3/2023
Reida Hansford Keen, 1952-2023
Reida Hansford Keen of Lake Wales passed away Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at her residence. She was born August 22, 1952 in Lakeland to the late Henry and Eleanor Hansford. Reida... — Updated 1/26/2023
Louise Ann Whittle, 1929-2023
Louise Ann Whittle of Lake Wales passed away Monday, January 16, 2023 at her residence. She was born May 28, 1929 in Clearwater to the late Robert and Bertha Hammond; she has been... — Updated 1/18/2023
Darrell Lee Papproth. 1953-2023
Darrell Lee Papproth of Lake Wales and Paducah, Kentucky passed away Sunday, January 22, 2023 at home. He was born November 15, 1953 in Belleville, Illinois to the late John and... — Updated 1/24/2023
Allison Jennings McCance, 1942-2023
Allison Jennings McCance, beloved wife of Henry F. McCance, passed away peacefully at her home in Mountain Lake, Lake Wales, FL, on January 15, 2023, of complications from... — Updated 1/15/2023
Sir Richard V. Giordano KBE, 1934-2022
Sir Richard V. Giordano KBE, an iconic American business leader who led a transformation of British corporate culture, creator of the BOC Challenge sailing race and Knight... — Updated 1/23/2023
Katherine Elizabeth Hart, 1964-2023
Katherine Elizabeth Hart of Lake Wales passed away Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at her residence. She was born December 11, 1964 in Lake Wales; she recently moved to Lake Wales from... — Updated 1/12/2023
Sukhni Meetoo, 1921-2023
Sukhni Meetoo of Lake Hamilton passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at her residence. She was born June 11, 1921 in Guyana. Sukhni was of the Hindu faith. Sukhni was proceeded in... — Updated 1/12/2023
Donna Kosman, 1942-2022
Donna Kosman, age 80, passed away December 31, 2022, at her residence in Lake Wales. She was born on October 28, 1942, in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She was a Paralegal for Orange County... — Updated 1/5/2023
- Carol Loretta Pirich, 1939-2022
- Robert Wayne (Bob) Peppel, 1940-2022
- Harriett Griffin Harris, 1934 - 2022
- Kenneth Roy Rogers, 1949-2022
- Juan Trinidad Eliserio, 1951-2022
- Andrea Garwood Littleton, 1952-2022
- Robert Alan "Bob" Decker
- Beverly Porter, 1945-2022
- Carol Benson Lassiter, 1931-2022
- Bette B. Ryan, 1934-2022
- Travis Michael Wilbanks, 1995-2022
- John Richard Seymour, 1949-2022
- Evelyn Levine, 1925-2022
- Diane Ferrio, 1957-2022
- Niyom Dowudom, 1940-2022
- Bernice Marie Howser, 1932-2022
- Timothy Ulysses Poitras, 1959-2022
- Frank J. Wolzanski, 1930-2022
- Wayne P. Miller, 1945-2022
- Alice Boyle Duffy, 1929-2022
- Thomas D McKeon, 1950-2022
- Diane Arlene Kastner, 1940-2022
- William B. Newton, 1944-2022
- Maxine Merrill Gilmore, 1921-2022
- Bob Johnson, 1958-2022
- Kathleen Marie Greer, 1946-2022
- Janet Crichfield Ward, 1947-2022
- Shirley Ann Connors, 1947-2022
- Joan Frances Nicoletti, 1963-2022
- William David Barker, Jr., 1962-2022
- Linda Lucille Cope, 1939-2022
- Harry John Burns, Jr., 1939-2022
- Alfredo Gonzalez, 1935-2022
- Ann Wagner Geils,1928-2022
- Helen Marie O'Donnell, 1928-2022
- Ricardo T. Lopez, 1977-2022
- Rodney Wiley Hill, 1942-2022
- Patricia "Pat" Schafstall, 1947-2022
- Richard Wagoner Sr., 1931-2022
- Sephia B. Royer, 1938-2022
- Nancy M. Booream, 1931-2022
- Belinda DuBose Hurst, 1956-2022
- Roman T. Hernandez, 1946-2022
- Robert Stanley Collibee, 1934-2022
- Ronald Kyle "Ron" Porter, 1955-2022
- James Bohannon,
- Richard G. "Dick" Glasgow, 1927-2022
- Dennis Hill Hewitt, 1945-2022
- Victor Vieyra-Yepez, 1959-2022
- Elizabeth Ann McCrary, 1938-2022
- Mildred Marie Croman, 1937-2022
- Eric Matthew Kinney, 1988-2022
- Anthony Joseph (Tony) Ocel, 1927-2022
- Marilyn Skinner Newell, March 20, 1929 - August 10,2021
- Janice Ann Weathersby, 1950-2022
- John Grimes. 1933-2022
- Nancy Jean Waiss, 1950-2022
- Ignacio Soto Rodriguez, 1951-2022
- James Edward Brinkworth, 1936-2022
- Frank Manley Thullbery, 1930-2022
- James "Jim" Fredrick Beaver, 1934-2022
- Peggy Sue Anderson, 1945-2022
- Mary Palmer Foutch Wagoner, 1925-2022
- Joyce Swallows, 1941-2022
- James Waters, 1950-2022
- John Michael Stakowski, 1940-2022
- Hans Mathes, 1952-2022
- Dequita Voncille Manns, 1974-2022
- Orie Lee Hostetler, 1940-2022
- Gordon Harold "Pete" Adsit, 1932-2022
- Patsy Lue Harris, 1921-2022
- David Hazlett, 05/13/1933 – 12/24/2021
- Norma Jean Rattey, 1931-2022
- Wanda Gail Ward, 1954 – 2021
- William V. "Sonny" Gibson, 1930-2021
- Caroline Dykes. 1931-2022
- Barbara Cox Reeves, 1926-2022
- Alexander "Sandy" Rybinski, 1941-2021
- Marta Schaff Curtis, 1943-2021
- Robert J. Phillips, 1953-2021
- Rocky White, 1956-2021
- Marta Graeven, 1945-2021
- Clifton Williams, Jr., 1974-2021
- J.P. Williamson, 1972-2021
- John Randolph "Randy" Peterson, Jr., 1949-2021
- Thomas "Tom" Small, 1950-2021
- Marie Stibitz, 1932-2021
- Alane D. Osborn, 1957-2021
- Juan Alexis Andujar, 1935-2021
- Opal Gynell Preston, 1931-2021
- Robert Mallick Blair, 1921-2021
- Russell Anthony Robertson, 1946-2021
- William E. Delmas, 1939-2021
- Janice Theresa Koziol, 1949-2021
- Esther McKenzie, 1924-2021
- Michael Duane "Mike" Taylor, 1946-2021
- Franklin O. "Frank" Blachly, 1926-2021