Local Reporting

Reporting focused on community resilience, educational opportunity, and the people shaping local enterprise.

Sarah Semon 10/5/26 Sarah Semon 10/5/26

Polk Voters To Decide on Referendum To Add $65.6 Million in Annual School Funding

Polk County Public Schools said the additional revenue is necessary to address employee pay and staffing shortages while funding school safety and other programs.

Sarah Semon 9/30/26 Sarah Semon 9/30/26

What to Expect This Flu Season in Polk County

Healthcare providers say late September and October are the ideal months to get vaccinated before flu season hits.

Sarah Semon 8/5/26 Sarah Semon 8/5/26

A Lifeline for the Middle: Polk HealthCare Plan Opens Doors to Thousands More

Polk County Expands HealthCare Plan eligibility to 300% of federal poverty level.

Sarah Semon & Trinity Laurino 6/23/26 Sarah Semon & Trinity Laurino 6/23/26

Tabletop & Togetherness: Lakeland’s Growing Gaming Scene

Lakeland has a growing community of tabletop gamers and an increasing number of hosted game nights at community centers, local libraries, churches, and living rooms.