Meet The Team

Tracy serves as the President of the board. She graduated from the University of South Florida with her Bachelor's in communications. She then went to Liberty University and received her Master's in counseling. She is currently a business systems analyst specializing in hospital software products. 

Romona Washington is executive editor of the Highlands News-Sun and Highlands Sun, as well as corporate executive director for D-R Media, working closely with six other newspapers in Lake, Polk, and Sumter counties. Romona started her newspaper career as a typesetter and overseer of the weekly circulation department, learning page design and photo lab work. In the 40-plus years since she has worked as a beat reporter, features editor, advertising representative, news editor, publisher and five years ago followed her heart back to the newsroom. She has served on numerous organization boards in Highlands County. She is the proud mother of two children.

Trudy has been practicing investment and wealth management since 1999 and is the president and financial advisor of Benton Wealth Management, LLC.  Formerly the Vice President of SunTrust Investment Services, she served as a regional financial advisor for 14 years before opening her own firm. She is a graduate of Webber International University holding a BS in Accounting and a Master Degree in Business Administration. She also received the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC) designation from the College of Financial Planning. Trudy enjoys participating in triathlons and running marathons in her spare time. 

Jo Ann married Don Serdynski in 1958 and had two children, Tracy and Kelly. She spent many years and volunteering as a teacher's aid for the Highlands County School board. She will be serving as the board secretary and on the finance committee. 

Longs Air Conditioning - Vice President