The entire Lakeland Highlands campus is scheduled to open in summer 2026. | Photos provided by Watson Clinic
Watson Clinic is making major moves to meet the growing healthcare needs of Central Florida with a new affiliation and meaningful expansions across the community. Let’s get into it.
There will also be an Ambulatory Surgery Center, designed to enhance outpatient care with:
Six high-tech operating rooms
20 pre- and post-op bays
Six post-anesthesia care units
Both facilities will operate solely under Watson Clinic and join their 20+ existing locations across Polk, Pasco, and Hillsborough counties.
“Watson Clinic is excited to expand our presence on the new campus in order to serve the healthcare needs of our growing community,” CEO Jason Hirsbrunner said.
As the campus continues to take shape, patients can look forward to even more convenience, innovation, and compassion — right in the heart of Swan City.
Polk County Burger Week is flipping back into action from Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 27. Get ready for deals + special offers at 51 local restaurants. Most Lakeland eateries are still putting together their menus, but Sora Eatery’s Shokunin Smash with miso butter onions and yuzu koshu slaw is already calling my name.
Events
Events
Tuesday, June 24
Able Arts | 2:30-4 p.m. | Florida Children’s Museum | Free | Students with disabilities can get hands-on experience with the color wheel, texture, and different artistic tools.
Tacos, Tequila + Bingo | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Smith’s American Tavern | Price of purchase | Snag deals on tacos and margarita flights while you compete for five in a row.
Wednesday, June 25
Fancy Reagan | 6:30 p.m. | The Ritz, Winter Haven | $35 | Take things back to the 1980s with passionate performances of power ballads and pop culture hits.
Miss Florida Scholarship Pageant | Wednesday, June 25-Saturday, June 28 | Times vary | RP Funding Center | $62+ | See who will go on to represent the Sunshine State at Miss America.
Thursday, June 26
Kids’ Morning Out | 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Little Lake Play | $45 | Drop off little Lakelanders for a few hours of games + crafts while you enjoy a morning to yourself.
Trivia Night | 6-8 p.m. | Bonnet Springs Park | Free | Show off your Disney knowledge at this themed trivia night all about the “House of Mouse.”
Friday, June 27
Lakeland Flying Tigers vs. Clearwater Threshers | 6:30 p.m. | Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium | $11+ | Bring your Lakeland Electric bill to the box office and receive four complimentary tickets.
A Tribute to Women of the 90s | 8 p.m. | Union Hall | $13+ | Get ready for a grungy blast from the past at this concert performed by Robin Brooke, Anisette Mayer, and Noan Partly.
Lakeland City Commissioner Bill Read has announced plans to step down at the end of 2025, two years before the end of his term. Read’s position as the District B Northeast representative will now be on the ballot in the Nov. 4 city election — learn how to run.
Eat
We now know what will replace Andrew’s Coffee at its drive-thru on South Florida Avenue: Five Star Seafood. The Tampa-based eatery is known for seafood combos, chicken, sandwiches, pasta — and a 4 a.m. closing time. While we await an opening date, check out the menu.
State
A new state law goes into effect on July 1, requiring those ages 14-17 to take a driver’s ed course before getting learner’s licenses. The Polk County Tax Collector encourages teens to take the required Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course before July to avoid the extra requirement.
Award
The 2025 class of Polk Pioneers was honored by the Polk County Historical Association last week. These nine residents aged 75+ have lived in and contributed to the county for at least 50 years. Watch interviews with the honorees, including Captain Alice Lorraine Peaslee of Lakeland.
Coming Soon
Burger joint Adler’s just announced a new location in downtown Auburndale, along with a bar called Revel Jane’s, and Haven Coffee Roasters is working on a second shop next door. Maybe Auburndale is the next foodie hotspot.Plan a day trip to see what else is new.
Holiday
Laser tag, anyone? Independence Day is Friday, July 4, but you can celebrate all week long at Family Fun Center. Visit July 1-4 for $4 deals on attractions when you buy tickets online, then get a free round of mini golf with a military ID July 4-6.
Arts
Lakelander Tianna DeNunzio has started The Green Room at 831, an online art gallery featuring artists from across the country. Browse its debut collection, “Summer By The Sea,” which includes works by Mayfaire by-the-Lake artist Heather Nagy. The gallery is also accepting submissions for its fall collection.
Kids
Bluey Reads Day is coming up on Saturday, July 12, and Books-A-Million at Lakeside Village is getting in on the TV character’s fun. Don your pajamas for a free Sleepytime Adventure event with games + story readings from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Australian accents are impressive, but not required.
Travel
Fly to Charleston for under $80 (yes, really), or spend a weekend in D.C. for under $100. Find amazing airfare deals every single week on Orlando International Airport’s official deal page. Bookmark now and thank us later.*
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Trending
This No. 1 best-selling sun hat with solar powered fans is breaking the internet. Reviewers love its UPF 50+, waterproof wide brim, built-in dual fans, and adjustable fit.*
Category
Travel
Summer travel is reaching new heights
Use our airport guides to parking, security, dining, and more. | Photo via Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA)
72.2 million. That’s how many people AAA expects to take Independence Day trips from June 28 to July 6, whether it’s by car or by plane. Are you one of them? Become a travel pro in no time with these guides.
Orlando International Airport | Head east for a nonstop flight to one of 160+ destinations, and check out MCO’s new Terminal C if you’re flying internationally.
Tampa International Airport | Visitors are currently flocking to TPA for more than the flights. The airport also boasts Phoebe, the 21-ft flamingo sculpture.
Quick trips near Lakeland | Skip the airport altogether and plan a day trip using reader recommendations — you won’t even need to fill your gas tank.
Asked
Asked
Which airport do you usually fly out of?
A. Lakeland International Airport B. Orlando International Airport C. Tampa International Airport D. I prefer to drive
Your favorite bug banisher, to get you through the summer season unbitten:
🌿 These No. 1 best-selling bracelets keep mosquitos away just by wearing them around your wrist or ankle — they’re DEET-free, use essential oils, and fit both kids and adults.
🐜 If slicing summer watermelons brings all the ants to your house, try these best-selling ant bait stations, rated 4.6 stars and usually effective within 24 hours.
💡 For mosquito protection on your porch or patio, try this No. 1 best-selling electric bug zapper — just hang it, plug it in, and enjoy bug-free summer nights.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Thrifting was the top choice when I asked for your favorite way to bargain hunt, and now there’s a chance to help a local store. Lighthouse Ministries’ thrift shops need clothing, shoes, and home goods. Drop yours off at the Lakeland location, then head inside to shop. I always find something good there.
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