The CRA’s goal is to spark development through investment in core areas of Lakeland. | Photo via Rut Patel
When it comes to fitness, it all starts with a strong core. The Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is following that strategy with its Restore the Core initiative, which it calls “a commitment to restore, reinvest in, and re-energize the heart of our community.”
Through Restore the Core, the CRA will use feedback from Lakelanders to update the Community Redevelopment Plans for its three districts: Downtown, Dixieland, and Midtown. The latest plans were written as early as 2001. Now, the CRA is looking to discover which community characteristics, concerns, and improvements will guide its investments.
The three CRA districts cover 5,000+ acres, and you can pinpoint spots on the interactive map.
There are several ways to have your say before the first draft plan is written. Take the online survey, drop your feedback in an interactive map, or meet the CRA at in-person events. It all starts with tonight’s Open House at the RP Funding Center from 6 to 9 p.m.
Asked
Asked
Which district do you think needs the biggest update?
Makers Market | 12-5 p.m. | Lakeside Village | Price of purchase
Thursday, Nov. 20
Cancer Prevention and Early Detection: 2025 Updates in Screening Guidelines | 6 p.m. | Watson Clinic Main Library | Free | Watson Clinic General Surgery/Surgical Oncology specialist Dr. Dany Barrak will discuss how you can lower your risks for cancer, along with the latest screening guidelines + detection technology.*
Mary’s Bagel Café will offer free meals to families with students on Tuesdays and Fridays, 4-6 p.m. The new initiative, called Mary’s Pantry, will use the restaurant’s tips to fund home-cooked meals, so drop a little extra in the jar during your bagel runs. (WFTS)
Ranked
No. 92. That’s where Lakeland ranked on U.S. News & World Report’s list of best places to retire in 2026. Cities were ranked based on criteria like quality of life and value, which is higher in Lakeland than in comparable places. Make the most of retirement in Swan City.
Civic
ICYMI, Lakeland has chosen new leaders. Sara Roberts McCarley was elected mayor, and Ashley C. Troutman was voted as District C City Commissioner. Mike Musick retained his commission seat, and all three city charter amendments on the ballot were approved. Terms will begin in January.
Opening
Tennessee Jane is expanding with a second boutique space in downtown Winter Haven. Shop for clothing + accessories at the new store during the grand opening this Saturday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Visit after a trip to the Winter Haven Farmers Market, happening just a block away.
Drink
Recent dinners at Vegetation Cafe have sold out faster than you can say cabernet, but the vegan eatery’s next tasting doesn’t require a ticket. Drop in on Saturday, Nov. 15, 6:30-10 p.m., for a free natural wine tasting with small plate pairings.
Seasonal
Horror doesn’t stop during the holidays. Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail is bringing back its Christmas-themed event for five select nights in December. If a wintry walk through two trails and a “slay ride” are on your wishlist, snag tickets now.
Going to the emergency room can be a little scary, especially for kids. Did you know? Lakeland Regional Health has Polk County’s only dedicated Children’s Emergency Department which provides the same expert care as their nationally ranked ER — but with a focus on keeping kids comfortable and safe.*
Finance
Score a lucrative signup bonus and up to 5% cash back with this credit card that experts can’t stop raving about. With perks you don’t see every day and a $0 annual fee, it will be a serious upgrade to your wallet. Learn more + apply.*
Shop
If you’re a Costco shopper, you know about the $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about?*
Event Spotlight
Sign up for the amateur tournament by Saturday, Nov. 15 (and move fast — some divisions already have a waitlist). | Photo provided by the City of Lakeland
The Carvana PPA Tour will host its first Lakeland event Tuesday, Nov. 18-Sunday, Nov. 23, and it’sa big dill for pickleball fans.
The Veolia Lakeland Open will allow professional players to paddle it out at the Beerman Family Tennis Center. Here’s how to get in on the action:
Get tickets to watch top players like Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns compete (daily + weeklong passes available).
Improve your game with a two-day PPA Tour clinic taught by the experts.
Register as a single or double to play in the amateur tournament.
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.
As of now, it looks like 600+ players have registered for the Veolia Lakeland Open amateur games. I’ll wait until Baseline opens so I can book a private court, but I’m excited to watch the action at the Beerman complex.
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