Plus, free parking for downtown workers.
 
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6AM City In-house

Today’s Forecast

84º | 42% chance of precipitation
Sunrise 7:24 a.m. | Sunset 7:05 p.m.
 

You want hurricane tips? We’ve got plenty.
Lightning in dark cloudy sky over trees and streetlights on a rainy day in Lakeland, FL
It’s not too late to start your hurricane preparations. | Photo by @skymaro_009
Whether you’ve spent this week making a hurricane preparation list or are still wondering how much the storm will affect Lakeland, here are a few extra pro tips worth considering before Hurricane Milton makes landfall in Florida.

🤝 Remember your neighbor

From a simple exchange of phone numbers + information to grouping your resources for a community hurricane ride-out, working with others can help keep everyone safe.

🧠 Take care of your mental health

We know hurricanes can bring out a lot of emotions. Stress, fear, and anxiety are very common. If you need to talk to someone, call Peace River’s 24/7 hotline (863-519-3744) for emotional support.

💵 Finesse your finances

Spending money to prepare for a disaster can be taxing, no doubt. Make sure to plan ahead, list your priorities, and try not to go over a set budget.

📲 Stay in the know

Sign up to receive local emergency notifications from Alert Polk to stay informed on important weather updates.

⛑️ Have safety smarts

When running generators, propane tanks, or camping stoves, make sure to use proper safety precautions to keep yourself and others safe.

🐶 Protect your pets

It’s always best to make sure your pets are up to date on vaccinations and have current licenses + microchips. But if you’re unsure, take photos of your pets for easier identification. And if an evacuation order is issued, seek pet-friendly hotels and open shelters.

🔦 Really though, be prepared

Not sure if you’re entirely prepared for the storm? Take a look at our checklist for more pro tips.
 
 
Events
 
Tuesday, Oct. 8
Wednesday, Oct. 9
  • Computer Skills Senior Scholars Class | Wednesday, Oct. 9 | 1-3 p.m. | Rath Senior ConNEXTions Center | $60 | Older adults will enhance their computer knowledge through this hands-on class.
Thursday, Oct. 10
  • “Metamorphosis” 4 Squared Exhibition Opening | Thursday, Oct. 10 | 5-7 p.m. | Mulberry Cultural Center, Mulberry | Free | See what artists can create with four squares — you can even purchase your favorite pieces.
  • Disney Halloween Trivia | Thursday, Oct. 10 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ | Free+ | Grab your team + test your knowledge of Disney’s Halloween-themed flicks.
Friday, Oct. 11
  • Collectorama | Friday, Oct. 11-Saturday, Oct. 12 | Times vary | RP Funding Center | Coins, gold, jewelry, collectibles — this event has it all (just bring $12 for parking).
  • Pumpkin Painting | Friday, Oct. 11 | 6-8 p.m. | Pressed | $5 | Register to paint your own pumpkin alongside Lakeland Girls Who Walk while sipping on seasonal beverages.
Saturday, Nov. 16
  • Flightoberfest | Saturday, Nov. 16 | 11 a.m.-9 p.m. | SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus | $5+ | This event, along with the Pumpkin Dash 5K earlier in the day, has been rescheduled due to Hurricane Milton.
With Milton on the move, please note events are subject to be postponed or canceled. Be sure to check in with event hosts and businesses via social media to be aware of any cancelations or event updates.
Click here to have your event featured.
 
Wastewater
 
News Notes
Civic
  • City commissioners unanimously voted yesterday to offer free parking in the South Tennessee Avenue lot for employees of downtown businesses. Through Nov. 15, businesses can register up to five employees for parking permits. If spaces remain after that, permits will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. (The Ledger)
Development
  • Gospel Inc. will break ground this Friday, Oct. 11 on two apartment buildings that will be used to house those experiencing homelessness. The project’s $6 million first phase will add 48 units along East Lemon Street — it’s expected to be completed by late next year. (The Ledger)
Number
  • $89,200. That’s how much additional funding is needed to fix the Simpson Park Pool, delaying its reopening until mid-November. City staff shared that the delay is due to unexpected damage + algae infestation that was uncovered during the pool liner’s replacement in September. (LkldNow)
Community
  • Lakeland Electric is making changes to its customer rebate program to maintain its sustainability. As of Oct. 1, customers can no longer receive rebates for dryers, dishwashers, and freezers, and will receive lower rebates on fridges, washers, water heaters, and heat pumps. (LkldNow)
Biz
  • Prima 135 is steaking its claim in the former Florida National Bank building on South Tennessee Avenue. The newly announced steakhouse recently got approved for up to $250,000 in CRA incentives as it begins its $3.5 million construction transformation. (LkldNow)
Award
  • The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is showering the City of Lakeland’s Water Utilities with its WaterSense Award for Excellence in Education and Outreach. The EPA praised the city’s efforts in creatively educating Lakelanders on water conservation through events + social media.
Seasonal
  • Sorry, pumpkin. Black & Brew’s annual Pumpkin Latte Giveaway has been postponed due to Hurricane Milton. The coffee shop shared that it plans to still hold the giveaway at a later date, still TBA. Get your pumpkin fix before the storm hits.
Drink
  • Swan Brewing is adding another medal to its trophy case. The brewery recently competed in Best Florida Beer’s Oktoberfest Pro competition, and its Poke County Pilsner won gold in the German Pilsner category. Check out more local brews.
Finance
  • Credit cards that can help you get out of debt sound as wacky as pumpkin spice deodorant (yes, it’s real). But the concept is legit: Find a card with “0% intro APR” for balance transfers. Here are hands down some of the best offering no interest until 2026.*
Edu
  • Interested in working with a local tutor — or taking lessons virtually? Wyzant’s vetted instructors can help with 300+ topics, from core subjects to musical skills. The best part? It’s pay-as-you-go and starts as low as $10/session. (Psst... special offer this way.)*
 
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The Buy
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Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale is an annual fall event. | Gif by 6AM City
It’s time for Amazon’s highly anticipated October sale — just in time for festive season. Prime Big Deal Days is live today and tomorrow, with discounts on big-ticket items and everyday essentials alike.

For a gathering-ready home

Shark Wet Dry Vacuum Mop, $299.99 $199.99 | This all-in-one cordless vacuum can clean up dirt + debris, spills, and everything in between.

DeWALT Cordless Drill Kit, $179 $99 | An equipment upgrade = more DIY projects done before the holidays.

For getting warm and cozy

Soft Knit Oversized Cardigan, $58.99 $28.49 | Elevate your work-from-home look while staying comfy.

Men’s Soft Flannel, $34.99 $29.74 | This 100% soft cotton shirt is ideal for both layered and standalone wear.

To get a jumpstart on holiday gifts

Home Golf Simulator, $249 $174.30 | The ultimate gift for golfers — they can practice their swing + play with family and friends.

Luxury Towel Warmer, $150.99 $89.99 | There’s no cozier gift than warm towels all winter long.
 
The Buy
 
Choose your must-have Halloween item, both on sale for Prime Big Deal Days: these party-ready pumpkin + ghost lidded glass cups (now 20% off), or this no-effort skeleton onesie costume (now 38% off).
 
 
The Wrap
 
Amelia Herring.jpg

Today’s edition by:
Amelia
From the editor
Shoutout to our longtime reader Jan S. who shared with us that she decided to take a trip over to Plant City for Vintage Market Days this past weekend after reading about the event in our newsletter. Our readers + followers are truly the best of the best — thanks for being part of our Swan City flock.

A woman stands in front of a sign that says "Enjoy the Journey," holding a big red vintage-style suitcase.
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