Police Seek Man Accused of Violent Attack in Haines City
Police are seeking the help of the public in locating 35-year-old Jose Chaidez of Haines City, who is accused of battering his 64-year-old former girlfriend and then severely... — Updated 9/26/2023
New Brick Street Will Dress Up Park Avenue
The multi-million-dollar reconstruction of Park Avenue is proceeding close to schedule, as evidenced by the hard-working crews who have been seen laying the thousands of bricks... — Updated 9/26/2023
Tampa Woman Arrested by LWPD After Theft of $6000 Necklace
A 37 year old Tampa resident was arrested following quick action by Lake Wales Police officers who responded to a reported robbery. The suspect was charged with stealing a $6,000... — Updated 9/22/2023
New EV "Fast Chargers" Added at Lake Wales Hospital
Owners of the rapidly-growing number of electric vehicles in the Lake Wales area, as well as travelers passing through the city on SR 60, will be pleased to find four new electric... — Updated 9/19/2023
City's Growth Management Efforts Get New Leadership
As the City of Lake Wales faces an onslaught of development proposals totaling more than 14,000 residential units, a responsive city government is making the needed adjustments to... — Updated 9/23/2023
Family Recreation Center Improvement Plans Finalized for Former YMCA
The City of Lake Wales plans to spend nearly $80,000 on renovations of the former Family YMCA on Burns Avenue as it steps into control of operations there. The facility is being... — Updated 9/20/2023
County Approves Huge Development on Hatchineha Road
On a split vote, Polk County Commissioners refused to overturn the narrow approval of a sprawling development on a rural two-lane road in eastern Polk County about ten miles... — Updated 9/19/2023
Fire Department Responds to Mall Emergency From Two Stations
A "commercial fire" alert at Eagle Ridge Mall that went out on a 911 emergency channel gave some folks a start on Sunday afternoon, but happily turned out to be "not much,"... — Updated 9/24/2023
Rains, But No 'Canes in Weather Outlook
After a two-day spell of autumn-like weather to mark the official start of the season this weekend, summer-like rains are expected to return to Florida, but the threat of a... — Updated 9/24/2023
Lake Wales Cited for Community Health Possibilities
Lake Wales will become a healthier city if traditional neighborhood design standards are applied to future development proposals here, according to studies shared by Dr. Joanna... — Updated 9/22/2023
- "Doomsday Storm" Lee May Impact East Coast
- First-Degree Murder Charge Brought Against Father Who Killed Son
- New Potential Tropical System Emerges in Distant Atlantic
- Polk Sheriff's Deputy Arrested After High-Speed Chase
- Driver Escapes Injury in Dramatic Canopy Collapse
- Lake Wales Property Tax Rate Raised by One Mill
- Thermal Imaging Camera May Help Save Lives
- Expect Nightly US 27 Lane Closures at Washington Avenue
- Idalia Leaves Heavy Rains, But No Wind Damage
- Hurricane Idelia Expected to Have Some Impacts on Lake Wales Ridge Area
- UPDATE Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Polk as Hurricane Adalia Approaches
- Mother Kills Two Children, Self Over Custody Dispute
- Coleden Snowden Charged After Fatal High-Speed Crash
- 11:00 am UPDATE: Hurricane Idalia Still Moving Mostly North, Intensifying
- Temporary Traffic Pattern Change Coming to Downtown Lake Wales Starting Monday
- Potential Tropical System Impact Becomes More Likely for Region
- 5:00 pm UPDATE: Hurricane Idalia Still a Threat, But Trends are Positive for Lake Wales
- UPDATE: Tuesday Morning Hurricane Trends
- Threat of Idalia Here Rapidly Dropping as Storm Continues Northward
- Potential Tropical Storm Threat Grows for Florida as Peak Season Approaches
- Huge Polk County Development May Impact Lake Wales Area
- Lake Wales Likely to Assume Operations of Recreation Center After Departure of YMCA Group
- Dover and Kohl Win Prestigious Seaside Prize for Planning Designs
- Polk County Offering $10,000 Sign-On Bonus for Paramedics and Firefighter/Paramedics
- Hurricane Season Remains Quiet Despite Predictions
- Gun Violence Leaves Two Local Men Dead at Grove Manor
- Dozens of Residents, Businesses Have Unclaimed Funds at Clerk's Office
- Six New Patrol Officers Sworn in to Serve Lake Wales Police Department
- Orange and Crystal Avenues to Receive Major Streetscape Facelifts
- Heat Advisories Back in Force, Reflect Major Change in Climatic Pattern
- New Mixed-Use Development Approved Near Spook Hill
- Lake Wales Main Street Wins Recognition for New Design Standards
- Kris Fitzgerald Files For US Congressional Race
- Brick Streets, Brick Facades Transforming Park Avenue
- Weather Pattern Finally Changes, Opens Door to Rains, Tropical Development
- Lake Wales Could Benefit from Federal Grant for Parks and Recreation
- City Expands Utility System to Address Growth, Improve Service
- Business Incubator Opening August 1 With Ribbon Cutting
- Rains May Return This Week, But July Lull in Tropics Likely to Continue
- Lake Wales May Grow Better, Not Just Bigger, Residents Told at Envision Presentation
- SR 60 to Tampa Blocked for a Week Starting Monday
- Park Avenue Will Remain "Open For Business" During Transformation
- First Phase Approved for 67-Lot Residential Development
- 100 Years Ago this Week is New Feature of Ridge Life Section
- Important Public Meeting Tuesday Will Help Shape City's Future
- New Ridge Scenic Highway Trail to Link Existing Trails to Form Network
- 300 Townhomes Planned for Lake Caroline in Lake Wales
- Huge Lake Wales Solar Farm Advancing Toward Completion
- Large Lake Wales Development Rejected for Failure to Meet City Aspirations
- Deputy Wounded, Shooter Killed in Frostproof Incident
- Care Center Parking Lot Closed Until After Holiday
- Two Arrested for Drug Sales While Working at Pizza Restaurant
- Demand Exists Here For Traditional Neighborhood Design in Face of Development Wave: Study
- City Moves For Summary Judgement of "Fraud in the Inducement" to Reclaim Walesbilt Hotel
- Envisioned "Complete Streets" Zoom Presentation Happens Thursday
- Construction of New $15 Million Gymnasium Underway at McLaughlin
- Tax Collector Joe Tedder Warns of PACE Scam
- Frostproof Student Drowns in Waverunner Crash at Father's Day Celebration
- Leoma's Landing Construction Moving Rapidly
- New Streetscapes Planted in Druid Hills to Expand "Garden City" Effort
- CRA Sale of Five Lots May Induce Construction of Ten New Affordable Housing Units
- Traditional Neighborhood Design to Elevate New Lake Wales Development
- Public Invited to a "Deep Dive" Online Wednesday Afternoon for Lake Wales Envisioned
- Lake Wales Mardi Gras Dishes Out Grants to Area Charities
- Soggy Week Ahead For Florida, But Hurricane Unlikely
- West Park Avenue Begins to Emerge From Construction Chaos
- Retail Business Recruitment is Focus of Downtown Lake Wales Effort
- Babson Park Resident Narrowly Escapes House Fire
- City Street Paving Project Begins, May Cause Delays
- State Attorney Rules August 2022 Police Shooting Was Justified
- Wednesday Public Information Expo Will Explain CRA Expansion
- Lake Wales Envisioned Process Moving Ahead, Rotarians Told
- Lake Wales Main Street Program Earns Reaccreditation
- Black Bear Surprises Early-Morning Walkers on Lake Wailes Trail
- Police Seek Driver of Cadillac in Crash That Claimed Two Lives
- Steeple Chase Proposal Delayed in Face of Commission Resistance
- Fire at Quails Bluff Leaves Families Homeless
- Lake Wales Man Dies in US 27 Traffic Crash
- Fitzgerald Denied Return to Commission Due to Move Outside District
- Lake Wales Man Dies in Wrong-Way Motorcycle Crash on US 27
- Two Haines City Men Dead After Driver Reportedly Ran Traffic Light on US 27
- Second Fatal Incident in Same Day Takes Life of Orlando Woman
- Kris Fitzgerald Reinstated to City Commission Seat
- Thompson Resigns as Mainstreet Director as Lake Wales Connected Proceeds
- Polk County Again Reducing Curbside Waste Service, Threatens Fines for Non-Compliance
- UPDATE: Quadruple Murder Suspect Killed In Police Shootout
- Lakeland YMCA Group to End Contract With City of Lake Wales, Plans to "Close"
- Hail, High Winds Batter Lake Wales Area After Warning
- Large Hail a Threat For Southeast Polk Today
- Frostproof City Council to Consider Requiring Beach Parking Permits
- "Town Hall" Meeting on ADS Plant to Be Run By City
- Lake Clinch Parking to Remain Free, For Now
- Encephalitis Killing Horses in Polk, Poses Serious Threat to Humans
- ADS to Host Public Meeting Over Pipe Plant Concerns
- Greenways, Blueways, New Street and Neighborhood Designs Among Ideas Offered by Citizens at Hands-on Workshop
- Charette Work in Progress Review Will be Presented Tonight
- Apparent Murder-Suicide Takes Life of Teen, Stepfather
- City Commission Approves Correction of Impactful "Scriveners Error"
- Friday Night Public Reception to Begin Week of "Envisioned" Planning
- Marcus Kirby, former School Trustee, Granted Probation
- Lake Wales and Frostproof in Severe Drought, But Storm May Threaten
- Wildfire Threat Remains High For Polk After River Ranch Fire
- Highland Park Manor Organizers Call a Second "Town Hall" Meeting
- Robin Gibson Wins Re-election, Keith Thompson Wins Seat 3 Race for City Commission
- Zoning Board Rejects Change to Ordinance That Would Permit Expedited Approval of Plastic Plant
- Significant Ruling in Walesbilt Lawsuit Favors City of Lake Wales
- City Commission Gives Attorney "Unsatisfactory" Marks in Annual Review
- Bicyclist Dies After Colliding With Truck on Walk-in-the-Water Road
- Travel Lanes to Shift Again on US 27
- Vietnam Veterans Still Feel Effect of War 50 Years Later
- Parks Master Plans to be Developed for Seven City Parks
- New Shopping Center Site Approved for US 27 in Lake Wales
- Fiery Crash on Scenic Highway Claims Life of Frostproof Woman
- Standing Room Crowd Hears Lake Wales Envisioned Kickoff
- Eyesore Building Escapes Code Enforcement for Another Year
- "Unhappy Hour" Planned by Women's Group to Mark Gender Pay Inequality
- "State of the City" Good, Mayor Hilligoss Reports
- Lake Wales' Economic Development to be Topic For Noted Economist
- Old Furniture, Mattress Clutter at Home? Free City-wide Cleanup Day is This Saturday
- Saturday is Last Day to Request Vote By Mail Ballot for City Elections
- Construction Project to Address Dangerous SR 60 Intersection
- Monday "Envisioned" Events to Shape Future of Lake Wales
- Final City Commission Candidate Forum Planned for March 28
- Commission Candidate Forum Brought Few Surprises
- Wildfire Threat Continues in Polk, Extreme Caution Urged
- City Commission Meets "in the Shade" to Discuss Possible Settlement Terms for Walesbilt Hotel Lawsuit
- Winners of LakeWalesNews.net Treasure Hunt Game Celebrate Their Detective Skills
- Lake Wales Police Recover Stolen Property Valued At Over $400,000
- City Commission Considers Giving Plant Re-Zoning Authority Back to Staff
- West Park Avenue to Remain Closed for Lake Wales Connected Construction
- Governor DeSantis' Delayed Reinstatement of Suspended Commissioner Kris Fitzgerald Raised at City Commission Meeting
- March 20 "Envisioned" Events to Shape Future of Lake Wales in Face of Explosive Growth
- City Relaxes Controversial Policy On Public Comments at Commission Meetings
- Monday is Deadline for Voter Registration for Lake Wales City Election
- Excessive Speed a Factor in Saturday Death of Lake Wales Man in US 27 Crash
- US 27/SR 60 To Incur Another Major Traffic Snarl Next Week
- Mardi Gras 2023 Brightens the Streets of Lake Wales
- Construction Keeping Area Roads Closed
- Unpaid Court Fines Waived for One Day Only March 11
- Public Input Sought for New Trail Connection for Kiwanis Park
- Prizes Remain to be Claimed in News Treasure Hunt Game
- University Women to Host Commission Candidates Forum March 13.
- Congratulations to Our Winners, Three Prizes Still Unclaimed!
- City Planners Launch "Envision" Effort, Seek Citizen Input For Future Land Use Planning
- Billion Dollar Water? Polk Regional Water Cooperative to Host Public Hearing
- Sun Rail Seeks Your Opinion as it Considers Extension Into Polk
- Mardi Gras Lights Up the Night in Lake Wales
- Ballot Set for April City Commission Election
- Election Workers Sought at Special Meeting February 28
- Highlanders To Celebrate State Championship Season With Community Celebration at Kiwanis Park
- Proposed Plastic Plant Meets Another Roadblock After Hearing Cancelled
- Gibson vs. Gibson vs. Gibson? A Confusing City Election Looms
- Wild Shiners Kick Off Mardi Gras Celebrations in Lake Wales
- Lake Wales to be Featured at Congress for the New Urbanism
- Medium Density Residential Approved for First Street Property
- New Business Park Approved for Hunt Brothers Road
- Declining Housing Finds Help Through CRA Program
- Lake Wales News Contest Offers Great Prizes
- Walesbilt Hotel Lawsuit Inches Forward
- Frostproof Woman Struck, Killed by Truck on US 27
- Student Killed by Truck at School Bus Stop
- City Development Services Director Mark Bennett Resigning
- Crystal Lake Trail Project Drew Public Input, Support at Meeting
- Lake Wales Man Receives Eight Year Sentence for Child Pornography
- Reinvestment Bankers Find Much to Like During Tour of Lake Wales
- Rear-end Crash Destroys Vehicles, Street Lights on Scenic Highway
- South Lake Wales, Crooked Lake Park Residents Invited to Special Meeting on Sewer System Upgrades
- Electric Rates May Rise Again for Area Residents, Businesses
- Millions Could Flow to Lake Wales CRA if Expansion Plans Are Realized
- Chamber Hosts Meeting About ADS Manufacturing Plant
- Increasing Economic Activity is Goal of Downtown Mixed-Use District
- 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
- New Water Use Standards Adopted by Lake Wales
- Lake Wales City Commission Tightens Rules on Public Speaking During Meetings
- 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
- City, CRA Give Go-Ahead to $18.5 Million Bond Issue
- Theft of City-Owned Truck Leads to Arrest for Frostproof Man
- 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
- Roundabout Construction Road Closure Extended For Additional Month
- Video Highlights: Lake Wales Kiwanis Christmas Parade Drew Thousands
- Frigid Blast Expected to Precede Christmas
- 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
- UPDATE: Highlanders Win, Advance
- Care Center to Renovate Crystal Lake Apartments After Purchase Finalized
- Polk Yard Waste Collection Still Not Complete Months After Hurricane Ian
- 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
- Video: Fire Department Warns Turkey Deep Fryers Are A Major Hazard
- City Street Resurfacing Effort Takes Three-Mile Step Forward
- "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
- Warner University Initiates New Football Facility
- 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
- 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
- Agreement Clears Way for Redevelopment of Vacant Downtown Apartment Building
- County Tourism Tax Proceeds to Boost Local Cultural Activities
- Lake Wales Receives National Recognition as "Cultural Landscape"
- 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
Soccer Skills Focus of Polk State Events
Polk State Soccer Head Coach Dee Shivraman and Assistant Coach and Recruiting Director Tawanda Kaseke are taking a community approach as they begin their first year with the... — Updated 8/22/2023
State Champion Lake Wales Highlanders Eye Start of New Season
A new school year means many things: getting used to new schedules, making new friends, and for fans of the defending state championship Lake Wales Highlanders, a new season of... — Updated 8/18/2023
Highlander Softball Team Advances to State Championship Game Thursday
The Lake Wales High School Softball team is angling to bring back a second state championship in a single scholastic year after defeating Lemon Bay (Englewood) 5-0 in a semifinal... — Updated 5/25/2023
Highlanders Win State Championship Game
The women of the Lake Wales High School softball team were all smiles in Clermont Thursday afternoon after winning the state softball class with 7-2 a victory over Wakulla. The... — Updated 6/15/2023
TrophyCatch Research: Proper Bass Handling
We know anglers care about big bass, which means they also care about how they handle big bass. Especially in recent years, concerns have been voiced about how anglers handle bass... — Updated 5/12/2023
Dyer Difference Award Goes to Local Volleyball League
A $3000 grant has been awarded to a local athletic league that will allow them to continue to provide participation and support for local athletes wishing to participate in their... — Updated 3/28/2023
Lake Reedy Bass Tournament to Benefit Youth Activities
Increased numbers of boats and anglers are expected on Lake Reedy in Frostproof this Saturday, March 25, as the Frostproof Church of God hosts their 12th Annual Bass Tournament.... — Updated 3/22/2023
Lake Wales High School Weightlifters Win County Olympics Title
Lake Wales weightlifters won the Olympics-style county title while placing second to Lakeland in the traditional competition. In the Olympic competition, Lake Wales won with 53... — Updated 3/16/2023
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
New Gym Pops Up at McLaughlin School
Like a mushroom after a summer rain, a beautiful new gymnasium has popped up this week on the campus of McLaughlin Middle/High School of Excellence. The building is being... — Updated 9/15/2023
Bok North Ag Students Excited for Future of Their Program
EDITOR'S NOTE: Students enrolled in the Bok Academy North agriculture program are excited for the opportunities they are being offered this year. Among those are participation in... — Updated 9/5/2023
Webber Students Earn Recognition at FBLA National Leadership Conference
For the second year in a row, Webber International University's team has left the annual Future Business Leaders of America conference with a number of awards. Twelve FBLA... — Updated 8/24/2023
Thousands of Students Return to Classes Tomorrow
Thousands of area students will stream back to school tomorrow for an unusual Friday start to the new school year. Seven schools operated by Lake Wales Charter Schools and several... — Updated 8/10/2023
Local Woman's Club Awards $5,000 to Teachers This School Year
Area teachers are now eligible to apply for individual grants of up to $250 that can fund special classroom activities or programs that can enhance the educational process for... — Updated 8/9/2023
Lake Wales Chrysler Dealership Celebrates Highlander Graduate Hannah Battles
A Lake Wales High School graduate bound for college will be honored at a special celebration hosted by a local auto dealership Friday. Hannah Battles, a 2023 graduate, will be... — Updated 8/4/2023
Bok South Principal Resigns, Interim Appointed
The sudden resignation of Bok Academy South Middle School Principal Damian Rosado has resulted in the quick appointment of Dr. Julio Acevedo to fill the role on a temporary basis.... — Updated 8/3/2023
Beauty Not Forgotten in McLaughlin Expansion
An aggressive facilities expansion to add a high school to the campus of McLaughlin School of Excellence has been devastating to the landscape at the school, but help is coming... — Updated 8/5/2023
McLaughlin Receives Dyer Difference Grant Award
As McLaughlin Academy of Excellence completes its transformation from a middle school to a middle-high school, community organizations are stepping up to support the effort.... — Updated 7/24/2023
Democratic Club Offers Thanks, Abundant Pizzas to Spook Hill Teaching Staff
Teachers and staff preparing for a new school year at Spook Hill Elementary were the happy recipients of a complimentary "thanksgiving" lunch this week in gratitude for their... — Updated 7/26/2023
- School Superintendent Rodolfich and Staff Read to 59 Classes in Marathon Effort
- Polk County Schools Offers New Tutoring Program
- Scholarships Offered By Elections Chief Lori Edwards to Area Students
- Polk Schools Graduation Rate Falls
- Polk State Classes Begin, But Enrollment Still Open
- Florida's Natural Growers Foundation Awards $4,000 to Victory Ridge Academy
- NBA Great Amar'e Stoudemire Guest at McLaughlin Gym Groundbreaking
- Area Students Offered Free Saturday Extra-Credit Experience, Ideal for College-Bound
- Lake Wales High Students Handle Surgical Robot At AdventHealth Lake Wales
- Lake Wales 4th and 5th Graders Meet in Annual "Elementary Turkey Bowl" November 15
- Middle and High School Students Offered Free Extra-Credit Educational Program
New Kualoa Restaurant Celebrates With Ribbon Cutting
Lake Wales newest restaurant, Kualao, celebrated its recent opening with a ribbon cutting this week, hosting an enthusiastic group of fans to free samples of their creative and... — Updated 9/26/2023
Rotary Business Networking Event Hosted at Native Imagery
Several dozen Rotarians, area business people, and many of their customers attended a "Ridge Taking Care of Business" networking opportunity Thursday evening at Native Imagery in... — Updated 9/25/2023
Business Licensing Renewal Deadline is Fast Approaching
The Office of the Tax Collector for Polk County (TCPC), Joe G. Tedder, reminds business owners that the deadline to renew their County Local Business Tax Receipt (BTR) is Monday,... — Updated 9/5/2023
Lake Wales Auto Agency Mahalak Auto Group Goes Solar
Another Lake Wales business is joining the growing wave of movement to solar power, with installation of a large rooftop array slated for this fall. The Low Payment Kings... — Updated 8/12/2023
Polk Vision Annual Meeting Inspires Area Leaders
A celebration of 19 years of contribution toward the development of community leaders drew some 200 guests to the annual meeting of Polk Vision Wednesday evening. The gathering in... — Updated 8/17/2023
New BizLINC Business Incubator Expected to Spur Economic Development
A new business incubator funded in large part by the City of Lake Wales was celebrated at a recent ribbon cutting featuring a host of government and business representatives. The... — Updated 8/5/2023
Area Farmers Eligible to Receive AgPack Benefits
A ten-year-old project helping farmers find a return on their truck investment is being maintained after three Low Payment Kings dealerships recently renewed their eligibility in... — Updated 6/8/2023
Dyer Difference Award Goes to Polk State Lake Wales
Going back to school in August is as intimidating for some students as it is exciting for others. Polk State College understands the challenges faced by many families in our area... — Updated 6/2/2023
Lake Wales Chrysler's Mahalak Auto Group Raising Funds to "Conquer Cancer"
The 10th Annual "18 Aces to Conquer Cancer" golf event is sponsored by the Mahalak Auto Group, owners of a local auto dealership, to raise funds for pancreatic cancer research and... — Updated 5/5/2023
GreenPal Newest Business in Area, Offers "On Demand" Lawn Service
Lake Wales area homeowners who are tired of keeping up with the mowing, want to find a good lawn service, or just need a break from the chores now have a new option: the nation's... — Updated 4/25/2023
- CARFAX Top-Rated Lifetime Dealer Award to Lake Wales Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM
- Maggie Mae's Ice Cream Shop Adds to Growing Downtown Variety
- Eric Edwards Promoted to General Manager at Mahalak Auto Group Fiat
- Dyer Difference Award Recognizes KT's Sunshine Foundation
- Ribbon Cutting Marks Change of Ownership, Bed Count Expansion at "The Club"
- All Veterans Center Receives Dyer Difference Award, Grant
- Rural Entrepreneurs Face Greater Economic Challenges
- City Funds Recruitment Effort to Attract New Businesses
Florida Natural History Museum Works to Preserve Endangered Andean Birds
A team of researchers from Florida is making a significant contribution to the survival of a number of bird species endangered by deforstation in their Andean home. Birds native... — Updated 8/22/2023
Polk County Accepting Environmental Land Nominations for Purchase or Conservation Easements
Polk County's Environmental Land's program is opening the process for accepting site nomination forms from landowners beginning August 1. A 2022 voter-approved referendum created... — Updated 8/8/2023
How to Deal With Protected Bears in Unexpected Areas
Close on the heels of the recent discovery of a black bear hiding in a tree on the Lake Wailes Trail, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing the... — Updated 6/11/2023
Stormwater Management A Major Challenge for Many Local Governments
It's raining hard. You need to get to an important appointment. You're halfway to your destination when you hit a roadblock. The intersection is flooded, wind gusts have downed... — Updated 5/9/2023
Polk is Subject to Tornadoes Both Winter and Summer - Here Are Some Safety Tips
Did you know that, according to Florida State University's Climate Center, Florida is the state with the most tornadoes per 10,000 square miles? This means that, while other states... — Updated 5/2/2023
Endangered Florida Panther Sighting in Lake Wales
APRIL 21 - A Florida panther, an endangered and protected species, has been seen in Lake Wales overnight and during the early morning hours of Friday, April 21. The big cat was... — Updated 4/26/2023
Endangered Florida Panther Spotted in Lake Wales Area
An endangered Florida panther, a rare, protected species, has been seen by several members of the public in the vicinity of Lake Wales Country Club. Area residents are encourage to... — Updated 4/21/2023
Summer Lightning Season is Approaching - Know How to Stay Safe
Florida has long been known as the lightning capital of the United States. In 2022, Polk County led the way in central Florida with 285 lightning strikes per square mile. Lightning... — Updated 4/19/2023
Call Before You Dig Is Good Advice for Residents
With warmer temperatures and April kicking off the best time of year to plant, spring means more people are heading outdoors to upgrade their landscaping, install a fence and... — Updated 4/5/2023
Volunteers Needed to Watchdog County Environmental Lands Program
Following voter approval of Polk Foever, a new 20-year environmental land tax passed last November, Polk County is reactivating its long-standing citizen's committee that... — Updated 2/7/2023
Will Lake Wales be Overrun by Growth? Envisioned Effort Offers an Alternative, But it Needs Your Input
Change is coming to Lake Wales. Are you worried? If so, your concerns are shared by thousands of your friends and neighbors. Ours is a growing community. This special place has... — Updated 8/2/2023
Enforcement Needed to End Carnage on Area Roads
A bloody toll of fatalities and serious injuries during the month of May has left multiple area families mourning their losses. The rash of deadly crashes is a clear call for... — Updated 5/18/2023
"Welcome Home" : Honoring Vietnam Veterans 50 Years Later Still the Right Thing to Do
Honoring those who have served to defend is a longstanding tradition in nations around the world, no less so in the United States. The freedoms we enjoy, so easily eroded from... — Updated 4/12/2023
Lake Wales Envisioned Offers Us Each a Chance to Protect Our Quality of Life
"Growth" is a word that means opportunity for some and strikes fear in the hearts of others. It has been the driver of both the economic health and the environmental destruction... — Updated 2/23/2023
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
MOVIE REVIEW: A Haunting in Venice Earns Four Stars
Kenneth Branagh's latest Hercule Poirot film, A Haunting in Venice, is a haunted house movie but isn't that scary. It is a surprisingly enjoyable and suspenseful mystery. While it... — Updated 9/26/2023
Pizzano's Earns Notice For Superior Pies, Italian Food
Among the most popular options for a quick restaurant-supplied meal in the Lake Wales area is pizza. With multiple outlets available, including several national chains, we decided... — Updated 9/26/2023
Big Al and the Heavyweights Perform in Lake Wales Friday Night
A special performance by the well-known touring band Big Al and the Heavyweights is happening this Friday night, September 22, at The Spot in Lake Wales. Led by "Big Al" Lauro, the... — Updated 9/23/2023
"Are We There Yet?" Still Time to Catch the Fun!
The history of human transportation gets a rousing send-up in the humorous "Are We There Yet" which will be on stage at Lake Wales Little Theater this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.... — Updated 9/21/2023
Blue Beetle is a Fun Superhero Film
I finally got to see Blue Beetle over the weekend. This is a superhero character I had never heard of. Blue Beetle is a fun and enjoyable superhero film that brings a fresh... — Updated 9/15/2023
Red, White, and Royal Blue Earns Four Stars
Red, White & Royal Blue is a fun, silly, and heartwarming romantic comedy about the unlikely romance between Alex Claremont-Diaz, the son of the United States President, and Prince... — Updated 8/29/2023
Lake Wales Junior Woman's Club Kicks Off Fall Festival Planning
Plans are underway for its 2nd Annual Fall Festival, a free event that features food trucks, beer, music, professional carnival games, inflatables including two bounce houses,... — Updated 8/29/2023
Contemporary Ceramics in the Sunshine State Opens at Arts Center
A gallery exhibition entitled "Floridian Fire: Contemporary Ceramics in the Sunshine State," will be unveiled September 5th at the Lake Wales Arts Center. Featuring 39 ceramic... — Updated 8/28/2023
Movie Review: Happiness for Beginners Catches Three Stars
Happiness for Beginners is a July, 2023 romantic comedy film that follows Helen Carpenter, a 32-year-old woman who, in an attempt to rebuild her life after a difficult divorce,... — Updated 8/8/2023
Movie Review: Rye Lane Streams on Hulu, Earns Four Stars
The newest release from streaming service Hulu is Rye Lane, a fun and enjoyable romantic comedy that follows two youngsters reeling from bad break-ups who connect over a... — Updated 8/1/2023
- "Paddle On! Lake Wailes" Happens Saturday, Still Time to Join the Fun
- Saturday "Family Fun" Day to Include Kids' Games, Bands, Beer Garden
- "Bingo, The Musical" An Entertaining Evening of Laughter at Little Theatre
- "Tweens Invited to "Bad Art Night" to Create Their Own Artworks
- Melanie's Seafood Company Offers a Special Dining Experience
- Lake Wailes Park Festival Grows Family Fun, Music, Food, and Games
- Movies: "65" Gets a Single Star For Weak Plot, Effects
- Film Review- "Shazam 2: Fury of the Gods"
- "Run Like You Care" Will Help Fund Meals On Wheels
- Arts Festival to Highlight This Weekend
- Lake Wales Annual Mardi Gras to Feature Multiple Events
- ⸮ƨiʜT bɒɘЯ υoY nɒƆ - Contest Offers Great Prizes to Clever News Readers!
- Special Concert Offered Saturday Afternoon at Lake Wales Arts Center
- Lake Wales Car Show Celebrates 13th Year Saturday
- Zany Times as LWLT Cast Gets "Lost (and Found) in Ikea
- KT'S Sunshine Foundation Brings BBQ and Music to Lake Wailes Park
- Christmas Parade Rolls Saturday at 6:00 pm
- Woman's Club Offers Traditional "Dickens Christmas" Experience
- Circle of Friends Thanksgiving Celebration Happens Saturday
- The Ball Brothers to Appear In Lake Wales November 30
- "The Outsider" Skewers Politics and Celebrates Democracy
Bok Tower Admissions Price to Increase Again
The cost of enjoying a day in the relaxing environment at Bok Tower Gardens may add a bit of unfortunate stress to budgets after the gardens announced that the their admission... — Updated 9/26/2023
September 26. 1923 Highlander
The Lake Wales Highlander of 100 years ago reveals much about the history of our community. Each week the Lake Wales News will publish a front-page image of the former Lake Wales... — Updated 9/26/2023
September 19, 1923 Lake Wales Highlander
The Lake Wales Highlander of 100 years ago reveals much about the history of our community. Each week the Lake Wales News will publish a front-page image of the former Lake Wales... — Updated 9/20/2023
Intersection of Community Design and Public Health to be Focus of Webinar
The significant way that features such as sidewalks, bicycle tracks, trees, parks, and public squares affect the overall health of the general public will be discussed by a panel... — Updated 9/15/2023
New Community Garden Almost Ready to Launch
An opportunity to produce fresh fruits and vegetables in the heart of a "food desert" has motivated a team of volunteers to plan the city's second community garden on a plot of... — Updated 9/16/2023
September 12, 1923 Highlander
The Lake Wales Highlander of 100 years ago reveals much about the history of our community. Each week the Lake Wales News will publish a front-page image of the former Lake Wales... — Updated 9/13/2023
September 5, 1923 Highlander
The Lake Wales Highlander of 100 years ago reveals much about the history of our community. Each week the Lake Wales News will publish a front-page image of the former Lake Wales... — Updated 9/13/2023
Volunteers Sought for "Santa to a Senior" Program
Each year RSVP Polk volunteers give generously to Home Instead's "Be a Santa to a Senior". Working with local case managers this project ensures that seniors in care receive... — Updated 9/7/2023
August 29, 1923 Highlander
The Lake Wales Highlander of 100 years ago reveals much about the history of our community. Each week the Lake Wales News will publish a front-page image of the former Lake Wales... — Updated 9/5/2023
Nominations Sought for Pioneer of the Year
Who will be the next "Pioneer of the Year?" That's a honor you may have a hand in deciding. The annual honor of Pioneer of the Year has been a highlight of the two-day Pioneer... — Updated 8/22/2023
- August 8, 1923 Highlander
- Annual 39 Mile Yard Sale Happens November 4
- August 1, 1923 Highlander Tells Tale of City History
- Lake Wales Arts Council Staff Honor Volunteers
- This Week in History: July 25, 1923 Highlander
- Ken Suarez Comes to Lake Wales
- This Week in History: July 18, 1923
- Maintaining Fitness in Senior Years Achievable Goal
- Today in History: Lake Wales Highlander of July 11, 1923
- Lake Wales Highlander of July 4, 1923
- Circle of Friends Celebrates New Campus With Ribbon Cutting
- Circle of Friends to Host Ribbon-Cutting at New Campus
- Lake Wales Woman's Club Has Big Impact on Community
- Annual Orange Blossom Revue Set to Happen in Lake Wales December 1 and 2
- Only One Public Shelter Will Serve Lake Wales & Frostproof Areas This Hurricane Season
- River Ranch Named Nation's "Best Glamping Spot" in USA Today Readers Poll
- "StirringWaters" Offers Social Connections to Those Living With Disabilities
- Avoid Stroke Risks and Identify Stroke Symptoms Fast
- Cindy Lilly of Babson Park Named "Woman of the Year"
- Eye Care Essential for All Adults
- Frostproof Rallies Around Woman Battling Cancer for the Third Time
- Polk HealthCare Plan May Be an Option if Medicaid Coverage Ends
- Paddle On! Lake Wailes To Benefit StirringWaters Park for Disabled
- New Community Garden to Green Up Local "Food Desert"
- Circle of Friends Program Growing to Fill Future Dreams
- Woman's Club Members Create Free "Prom Store" for High School Students
- AARP Effort Prepares 400 Free Tax Returns Despite Fewer Volunteers
- National Nutrition Month Spotlights Oral Health
- Olmsted Day Vendors, Sponsors Needed to Support Tree Planting
- Polk County Trails Network Continues to Expand
- Library Offers Community Resource Fair March 11
- Be Safe as You Work Outdoors
- Bennett Reflects on Years of Change
- New Year, New You: Making Resolutions You Can Keep For A Healthy 2023
- First Responders Honored at Chamber Luncheon
- Empty Bowls Raises Nearly $20,000 for Care Center Programs
- History Speaker Series to Feature Local Author
- Bruce Stephenson to Present at Bok Tower Gardens
- A Stress-free Valentine's Day Wedding? Join Other Couples on the Steps of Historic Courthouse
- Annual Empty Bowls Auction is January 31
- Central Florida and the Aftermath of Hurricane Ian - How Lake Wales Can Prepare for the 2023 Storm Season
- Registration Open for Polk Senior Games
- Quit Smoking in 2023, With Help From Your Friends
- AdventHealth Lake Wales Receives "A" Grade from Leapfrog
- 30th Annual Polk Senior Games Begin February 25
- Auditions This Monday and Tuesday at Lake Wales Theatre
- Three Ways A Medicare Advantage Fitness Plan Could Help Reduce Your Health Risks
- "The Outsider" Offers Needed Laughs at the Expense of Politics
- What You Think You Know About Homebuying Can Hurt You
- Students Can Earn Special Certificate on Lake Wales Patrimony
- Breast Cancer Foundation Receives Dyer Difference Award
- Polk County Clerk Offers New "Do it Yourself" Legal Filing Service
- Painting Raffle to Benefit AAUW Scholarship Fund
- Help Sought to Landscape City Streets
John Spencer Waldrop, 1941-2023
John Spencer Waldrop of Lake Wales passed away Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at Forsythe Hospice House in Auburndale. He was born February 5, 1941 in Bonifay to the late Leonard and... — Updated 9/21/2023
Walter James Davis, Sr., 1943-2023
Walter James Davis, Sr., age 80, of Lake Wales, FL, died Sunday, September 10, 2023, at Good Shepherd Hospice in Sebring, FL. He is survived by his son: Walter J. Davis, Jr.;... — Updated 9/16/2023
Carol Ann Stone, 1939-2023
Carol Ann Stone of Lake Wales passed away Monday, September 11, 2023 at Lakeland Reginal Hospital. She was born December 30, 1939 in Detroit, Michigan to the late William and... — Updated 9/13/2023
Arthur Henry Stafford III, 1938-2023
Arthur Henry Stafford III, 84, of Babson Park, FL passed away peacefully on September 13,, 2023. Art was born to Arthur Henry Stafford Jr and Charlotte Sarah Clark Stafford in Polk... — Updated 9/16/2023
Stephen Lee Rodda, 2006-2023
Stephen Lee Rodda of Lake Wales passed away Monday, September 4, 2023 in Lake Wales. He was born October 12, 2006 in Winter Haven. Stephen loved playing video games and spending... — Updated 9/8/2023
Carlene Marie Tschida, 1944-2023
Carlene Marie Tschida of Lake Wales passed away Sunday, September 3, 2023 at AdventHealth Lake Wales. She was born July 30, 1944 in Mandan, North Dakota to the late Bernie and... — Updated 9/5/2023
Jerry Cook, 1939-2023
Jerry Cook, age 84, of Rocky Face, Georgia passed away on Friday, September 1, 2023 at Calhoun Health Care. He was preceded in death by his parents Enos Cook and Carrie Cook... — Updated 9/3/2023
Versie Rene Stoudemire Meeks, 1941-2023
Versie Rene Stoudemire Meeks transitioned from this life to eternity on Thursday, July 27, 2023. She leaves to cherish her memories a loving and devoted husband of 61 years, Fred... — Updated 9/5/2023
Steve McGill, 1952-2023
Steve McGill, age 71, passed away on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at his home in Bartow. Born July 16, 1952, in Lake Wales, he was the son of the late Rex McGill and Joan (Duncan)... — Updated 8/29/2023
Joanne Edwards, 1930-2023
Joanne Edwards died at the age of 93 on August 24, 2023 after a short illness. Joanne Aileen (nee Williams) Edwards was born in 1930 in Portland, Oregon. In 1944 she and her family... — Updated 8/29/2023
- Shirley Jean Walters Harroun
- Pauline and James Bradford, Married 63 years, Passed Two Days Apart
- Judith Ann Blair Fry, 1939-2023
- Brenda Lee Burnett, 1960-2023
- Donaldeen Larsen-Brimm, 1926-2023
- Jose Manuel Velez, Sr., 1941-2023
- Marjorie Bedell Lanier, 1931-2023
- Vaughn Cofer, 1928-2023
- Kathryn Roberson McNutt
- Arthur St. Clair McKinstry, 1932-2023
- Tommie B. Snow, 1926-2023
- Heather Danielle Strickland, 1984-2023
- Adrian Roland McEachern, 1940-2023
- Charmayne Turner Marston, 1947-2023
- Catherine "Cathy" Zorn, 1933-2023
- Mary S. Fillingim, 1932-2023
- Arthur R. Falconer, 1943-2023
- John Herbert Cofer,1929-2023
- Foy Livingston McKenzie, 1952-2023
- James Thomas "Tom" Walkup, 1946-2023
- Maximilian "Max" Smith, 1970-2023
- Jerry Arthur Atkins, 1944-2023
- William Richard Kahler, 1956-2023
- Anthony Blake Caraway, 1972-2023
- Darlene Waters Hollinsed, 1953-2023
- Mary C. Grose, 1930-2023
- Richard Andrew Riley, 1921-2023
- Jim Lefils, 1944-2023
- Raymond Odom, 1927-2023
- Irene Hudson Heddon, 1937-2023
- Cathryn "Cathy" Sullivan Powers, 1949-2023
- Gordon E. Terry, unk-2023
- Iris Strader Karickhoff, 1938-2023
- Lucille F. Stanton, 1941-2023
- Dean Pitts, 1937-2023
- Leland K. Young, 1931-2023
- Juanice Lawson, 1928-2023
- Kathryn Fraiser Black, 1931-2021
- Harry Gilbert Waters, 1941-2023
- Robert Clifton Hannan, 1932-2023
- Reverend Thomas C. Seitz, 1952-2023
- Audie "Keith" Griffin, 1957-2023
- Noah N. Carbone, 1933-2023
- Robert "Bob" Burdett Kelly
- John Phillips Beck, 1931-2023
- Sharon Van Dyne Lawrence, 1938-2023
- Raymond Lee French, 1930-2023
- Reida Hansford Keen, 1952-2023
- Louise Ann Whittle, 1929-2023
- Darrell Lee Papproth. 1953-2023
- Sir Richard V. Giordano KBE, 1934-2022
- Allison Jennings McCance, 1942-2023
- Katherine Elizabeth Hart, 1964-2023
- Sukhni Meetoo, 1921-2023
- Lisa Marie Meneely, 1975-2022
- Donna Kosman, 1942-2022
- Christopher John Ellison, 1974-2022
- Agnes Green, 1919-2023
- Eusebio Irwin Salud, 1971-2022
- Rose Marie Wyrosdick, 1955-2022
- Carol Loretta Pirich, 1939-2022
- Robert Wayne (Bob) Peppel, 1940-2022
- Harriett Griffin Harris, 1934 - 2022
- Kenneth Roy Rogers, 1949-2022
- Andrea Garwood Littleton, 1952-2022
- Juan Trinidad Eliserio, 1951-2022
- Robert Alan "Bob" Decker
- Beverly Porter, 1945-2022
- Carol Benson Lassiter, 1931-2022
- Bette B. Ryan, 1934-2022