09.07.2023

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Today’s Forecast

77º | Light thunderstorms and rain | 90% chance of rain | Sunrise 7:20 a.m. | Sunset 5:49 p.m.

Go pro in college sports

The sports fan’s guide to Lakeland’s college teams

Southeastern University cheerleaders lead a cheer on the football field before a game

Cheer on your favorite teams to victory this year. | Photo by @seuniversity

College game days are back in Lakeland, and with sports like water skiing, esports, and bass fishing, there’s a team for everyone. Save our guide to three schools’ athletic programs so you never miss a game.

Southeastern University Fire

Sports: Baseball, basketball, bass fishing, beach volleyball, cheerleading, esports, football, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track + field, volleyball, wrestling

Don’t miss: SEU is making it more family-friendly to “Fuel the Fire.” Strollers are now allowed at football games at Victory Field, and prices for concessions have been lowered this season.

Add a heading (76) — Did you know Publix founder George Jenkins was an FSC booster? The Field House now bears his name.
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Photo via @tarynhphotos

Florida Southern College Mocs

Sports: Baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, cheerleading, cross country, esports, equestrian, golf, ice hockey, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track, volleyball, water skiing

Don’t miss: You can find FSC’s teams competing around Lakeland. You might run into the cross country teams hosting home meets at Holloway Park, and the baseball team plays at Henley Field — the former spring training site of the Detroit Tigers.

A Polk State College volleyball player jumps up to the net to hit a ball as her teammates watch — Catch a Polk State volleyball match at the Winter Haven Health Center.
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Photo by Sean O’Sullivan

Polk State College Eagles

Sports: Baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball

Don’t miss: Polk State is a multi-campus school, so you can find games across Polk County. Catch soccer at the Lakeland campus and baseball, softball, basketball, and volleyball in Winter Haven.

Events

Thursday, Sept. 7

Summer Cool Down Yoga | Thursday, Sept. 7 | 6-7 p.m. | The Hidden Gem Wellness Space, 6645 S. Florida Ave., Ste. 4, Lakeland | Price of donation | Join this donation-based class designed to calm the nervous system and mind.
Let’s Talk Lkld: K-12 Education | Thursday, Sept. 7 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Florida Children’s Museum, 600 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland | Free | LkldNow will host this community discussion on local education with guest panelists and interactive sessions.

Friday, Sept. 8

Gallery Perspectives | Friday, Sept. 8 | 12 p.m. | Polk Museum of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland | Free | Get an inside look at the exhibit “Timeless Origins: The Art of Reynier Llanes” with a tour by Reynier Llanes himself.
Comedy Buzz & “Moonshiner” Killer Beaz | Friday, Sept. 8 | 8-10 p.m. | Laugh Out Lounge, 19 3rd St. NW, Winter Haven | $25 | Laugh along with comedian Killer Beaz, known for Discovery Channel’s hit series, “Moonshiners,” at this night of comedy.

Saturday, Sept. 9

Wings ‘n Waffles | Saturday, Sept. 9 | 9-10 a.m. | Florida Air Museum, 4075 James C. Ray Dr., Lakeland | $5-$10 | Enjoy a breakfast of chicken and waffles while you hear from WFLA News Channel 8 meteorologist Amanda Holly.

Sunday, Sept. 10

Second Sunday Artisan Market | Sunday, Sept. 10 | 12-5 p.m. | Lakeside Village, 1479 Town Center Dr., Lakeland | Free entry | Shop from local makers and enjoy live music at the much-awaited return of this recurring market in Lakeside Village.*

Events calendar here

Click here to have your event featured.

News Notes

Civic

The City Commission approved Lakeland Electric’s new fuel rate of $45 per 1,000 kilowatt-hours — down from its current rate of $55 per 1,000 kilowatt-hours. The rate will decrease on Oct. 1. Lakeland Electric says average customers can expect monthly savings of ~$12. (The Ledger)

Biz

Inklings Book Shoppe is requesting permission to move from its current location on Combee Road to a historic downtown home at 818 E. Lemon St. If approved by the Planning & Zoning Board, the independent bookstore would add a coffee bar and genre-themed rooms. (The Ledger)

Number

~$10 million. That’s how much a new solid waste transfer station could cost the City of Lakeland to build. City commissioners approved a $600,000 contract to design a 12,000 to 20,000-sqft station off of North Combee Road to increase waste collection efficiency. (The Ledger)

Sports

Beyond offering safe activities for kids, the Coleman-Bush Building’s future esports room could also connect them with colleges + future careers. The program’s board will include members from Lakeland colleges that offer esports with the goal of getting them recruited at the collegiate level. (LkldNow)

Kids

Here’s a win-win: Kids can enjoy a night out while parents get a night off thanks to Art Centric Studio’s Kidz Night Out events. Register children ages 6-10 to enjoy painting, pizza, and playtime on Saturdays from 5:30 to 8 p.m. through November.

Biz

Lakeland was a topic of conversation for business leaders at the International Council of Shopping Center conference held last week. A representative from Books-a-Million shared that the company is seeking a vacant Lakeland storefront to open a 2nd & Charles bookstore. (Business Observer FL)

Legacy

Photographer Michael “Mookie” Wilson died on Sunday at the age of 61. Mookie worked behind the camera for 35 years, during which he covered local news and sports for The Ledger. (LkldNow)

Shop

Do you need an expert’s eye for design? Register for City Furniture’s free Wine & Design event at its showroom (3205 S. Frontage Rd., Plant City) on Thursday, Sept. 14. Enjoy complimentary drinks as you work with the interior design team to redecorate your space.

Cause

The Junior League of Greater Lakeland’s little black dress initiative is back. Happening November 13-17, Junior League members will wear the same little black dress for five days to advocate about clothing insecurity in our community. Donate to the cause — all dollars raised benefit TITAN Clothes Closet at Tenoroc High School.*

Finance

This leading credit card touts 0% intro APR on balance transfers for guess how many months… with no annual fee. (Hint: The 0% intro APR period lasts until 2025.) Details revealed here.*

Travel

Help us plan a quick trip

Take a quick trip to these cities near Lakeland

Will your travels take you to downtown Winter Haven? | Photo provided by Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce

If you’ve been reading LALtoday for a while now, you’re probably a Lakeland pro, but have you explored any of our nearby cities?

We’re planning day trip guides to your favorite towns near Swan City that you can reach without having to refill your gas tank. All we need is your favorite activities, restaurants, coffee shops, or attractions. Fill out our survey with your pro tips and can’t-miss attractions in your favorite cities — they might be featured in our guides.

Dade City

Drive an hour northwest of Lakeland for a taste of “Old Florida.” As the smallest city on this list, you can see much of Dade City in one day — but don’t be surprised if you’re so charmed, you come back for more.

Performers in medieval attire play music at the Bay Area Renaissance Festival, standing by a "Welcome to Folkestone" sign. — Are you a hero or a villain? Create a character and go back in time at the Bay Area Renaissance Festival.
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Photo by LALtoday

What to do

Go back in time on a self-guided tour of the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village — or, if you don’t want to go that far back to the past, the Joy-Lan Drive In Theatre will transport you to the 1950s.

Nature lovers will enjoy Giraffe Ranch, where you can encounter giraffes, cheetahs, pygmy hippos, and more wild animals. For a more lowkey experience, don’t miss the Dade City Garden Club’s free Monarch Butterfly Festival on Saturday, April 5.

While Dade City may seem sleepy, it’s big on exciting events. Head there every weekend through Sunday, March 30 for the Bay Area Renaissance Festival to watch jousting tournaments or try archery (costumes strongly recommended). Then, snag a ticket to Saigon Night Market’s first Spring Floating Lantern Festival on Saturday, March 15 to let lanterns fly free.

A chef at Kafe Kokopelli in Dade City flambés a dish tableside, creating a dramatic fire display in the rustic-themed restaurant. — You’ll want to stick around for dinner at Kafe Kokopelli, where the menu changes seasonally and every item is made in-house.
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Photo via Discover Dade City

What to eat
Start your day early with a salted honey latte + cinnamon roll from Treehouse Mercantile before shopping the store’s handmade ceramics. For a heartier morning meal, visit Green Door on 8th for Sunday brunch, complete with fried green tomatoes Benedict and mascarpone French toast.

When lunch rolls around, hit up Steph’s Southern Soul Restaurant. Don’t let this buffet-style diner fool you — it’s rated the No. 1 restaurant in Dade City on Tripadvisor, where locals rave about its fried chicken and red velvet cake.

Finally, finish your Dade City trip with dinner at Kafe Kokopelli. Located inside a former Model T showroom with an eclectic, vintage ambiance, it’s the perfect place to unwind over a glass of wine + goat cheese cheesecake.

Auburndale

Drive ~25 minutes east of downtown Lakeland and you’ll find yourself in Auburndale. This quiet town is full of hidden gems — you just need to know where to look.

RV campsite with tropical trees, tiki hut, and outdoor living area — Camp Margaritaville offers public events, like concerts + monthly markets.
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Photo by @campmargaritavilleauburndale

What to do

Reader Jan S. suggests starting with a stroll through downtown’s shops and the Historic Downtown Park. Take a walk through the Rotary Butterfly Garden, or find a shady spot at the playground + picnic tables.

Just across the street is the historic Baynard House, Sarah R.'s recommendation. This 130-year-old home now serves as a museum where you can get a peek into local history.

After a peaceful morning, head to the bustling International Market World. Not only can you find fresh produce and handmade goods, but you can catch circus shows or live alligator encounters every weekend. International Market World also hosts large seasonal events throughout the year — don’t miss the Wonderland of Lights in winter.

Making a staycation out of it? Book a night at Camp Margaritaville, a luxury RV resort with private tiki huts and cabana cabins. Even if you’re not staying, you can buy a day pass to enjoy the pools + water slides.

A three-tier tray of afternoon tea bites with sandwiches, cake, and vegetables — We wouldn’t skip Sweet Magnolias’ afternoon tea tray, piled high with light bites.
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Photo by Sandae Cooke, @curvygirlontherun

What to eat

A day in Auburndale isn’t complete without lunch at Sweet Magnolias Tea Bistro. This tearoom in a historic home serves up seasonal items (Sweet Tea and Summertime Salad, anyone?), and you can’t go wrong with the brew of the day.

Looking for something more savory than sweet? Locals rave about Peebles Bar-B-Q, which has been in business since 1947. The eatery closes for the summer, so stop by for a plate September-June.

Readers also recommended sticking downtown to find a new dining favorite. Grab a square-cut slice from Pizza Connection, all-day breakfast at Main Street Diner, or a sweet treat from The Shake Shoppe, suggested by Kathy S.

Winter Haven

The first stop in our series is Winter Haven, the Chain of Lakes City. It’s home to Polk County’s only theme park and 50 lakes — that’s even more than Lakeland has.

LAL-Visit Central Florida water skiing event-9.27.22.jpg — Winter Haven is known as the Water Ski Capital of the World.
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Photo provided by Visit Central Florida

What to do

Winter Haven gets its nickname because of its lakes interconnected by canals, making it the perfect place for getting out on the water. Reader Katie D. recommends booking a tour with The Living Water Boat Cruises to learn the area’s history.

Looking for entertainment? The Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team has been impressing audiences for over 100 years and puts on monthly free shows on Lake Silver. Head downtown for classic movies and concerts at the Historic Ritz Theatre or comedy shows at Laugh Out Lounge.

If you’re visiting with little ones, LEGOLAND Florida is the place to be. Families can ride attractions, splash in the water park, or visit the Peppa Pig Theme Park.

A hand holding a very large hamburger — We also recommend a juicy burger from Adler’s.
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Photo by @hungryyhippiee

Where to eat

You’ll work up an appetite after all that exploring. Reader Zack S. recommends starting the day with coffee from Haven Coffee Roasters and a bite from Honeycomb Bread Bakers.

Reader Sandi C. loves their casual lunch spot: Lucille’s American Café. Other readers recommended Arabellas Ristorante for dinner (Katie D. even called it the best Italian restaurant in Florida).

Toast to a successful day trip with a glass from Grove Roots Brewing or Obscure Wine Company. Winter Haven locals will recommend a visit to Andy’s Igloo for a milkshake or ice cream sundae to enjoy on your way back to Swan City.

Bartow

Our next day trip takes us to the City of Oaks and Azaleas: Bartow. You might know it as the county seat, but there’s so much more to do and see there, especially for local history buffs.

Screen Shot 2021-08-12 at 1.04.44 PM — The courthouse offers tours and ongoing exhibits.
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Screenshot via Google Maps

What to do

There was one activity that our readers recommended more than any other: A stop at the Old Polk County Courthouse, which now serves as the Polk County History Center. Take a tour of its Greek Revival architecture every third Saturday of the month.

After your tour, stick around downtown to do some exploring. Reader Diane C. says, “Don’t miss the secondhand stores along Main Street,” and reader Jan S. loves the “quaint downtown atmosphere.”

There’s no place like home, but these historic houses are worth a visit. Add some mystery to your trip with a tour through reader Gretchen J.'s favorite, the Wonder House, or visit the L.B. Brown House Museum.

A table with four flights of beer at Front Page Brewing Co. — Take flight at Front Page Brewing Co.
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Photo by LALtoday

What to eat

If history gets you hungry, our readers have you covered. Start the day off with a cup of coffee at Unfiltered Bartow. Sound familiar? You may have seen its Lakeland location at 801 E. Main St. For a sweet treat, reader Sophia V. recommends gluten-free baked goods at Patty’s Crumbs.

For lunch, reader Diane C. recommends Sweet Magnolia’s Café, where you can’t go wrong with a salad and sandwich combo. When dinner time rolls around, several readers have one spot in mind: Zest Bar and Grill. This new spot specializes in American food and cocktails.

Speaking of cocktails, there are plenty of places to grab a drink. Stop by Front Page Brewing Co. for beer, cocktails, ciders, and other drinks. Want something a little quieter? Head to The Wine Library for a nightcap of wine or sangria to end your Bartow trip.

Plant City

Ready to take a bite out of the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World? Next we’re heading ~20 minutes west of downtown Lakeland to Plant City, a small town rooted in its agricultural history.

The Florida Strawberry Festival at night. Crowds walk between colorful, lit booths selling food like candy apples, lemonade, corndogs, and cotton candy. — Visit the Midway, catch a concert, or eat your favorite fair foods at the Florida Strawberry Festival.
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Photo by LALtoday

What to do
The No. 1 thing every Lakelander must do in Plant City is visit the annual Florida Strawberry Festival. Mark your calendar for the 2025 festival happening Feb. 27-March 9 for world-renowned entertainment, all the strawberry-flavored food you can eat, and thrills on the Midway.

If you’re visiting during the rest of the year, there’s still plenty to explore. Reader Jackie S. says their favorite activity is taking a stroll around town. Reader Crystal P. also recommends going antique shopping — check out The Mercantile, an 18,000-sqft shop. Don’t forget this pro tip for shoppers from Reader Jennifer S. — stores tend to close early.

Plant City is named after railroad tycoon Henry B. Plant. Learn more about railroad history at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, and watch trains from the Train Viewing Platform.

A strawberry shortcake topped with whipped cream sits on a picnic table at Parkesdale Market. The market is filled with other picnic tables and plants for sale. — Plant City and strawberries go hand in hand.
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Photo by LALtoday

What to eat
Get your dose of caffeine at Krazy Kup, a cozy coffee shop recommended by Reader Mark B. If you’re hungry, Mark also tells us to grab breakfast or lunch at Brick House Cafe.

Fans of Strawberry Hut in Lakeland will be pleased to know that it has a Plant City location too. Reader Mary P. suggests this casual spot with seven styles of Cuban sandwiches. Speaking of strawberries, several readers say you can’t leave Plant City without a visit to Parkesdale Market for a strawberry shortcake.

Save room for dinner. Reader Susan K. recommends Fred’s Market “for fresh vegetables and catfish.” Visit the Keel Farms taproom to taste locally made wine, beer, and cider along with upscale pub-style dishes. We also love the new Stage 201 for pizza, especially the deep dish Motown pizza with its cheesy edges.

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The Wrap

Today’s edition by:
Connor

From the editor

If you’re heading to an athletic event, you’ve got to show up in style. Many local venues require clear bags — I recommend this one in red so you can match any of our college teams’ colors.

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