Shhhh... Silent book clubs are having a moment right now. Instead of talking about your latest read with a group (and secretly disliking this month’s selection), these clubs invite you to read your own book without interruptions.
Bonnet Springs Park’s monthly meetup is tomorrow from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Roundhouse Coffee Shop.
Pressed hosts its club on the second Thursday of each month (that’s this week) from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Pour Bear Coffee extends its hours on second Sundays for silent reading from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Lakeland Margarita Ball | 8-11 p.m. | Lake Mirror Promenade | $45 | Glasses up, LAL, the 38th Annual Margarita Ball is almost here. Held in benefit of local charities, including a toy drive, this one-night event features food, dancing, and, of course, margaritas.*
To showcase and explore the latest in optimization and biohack research.
Look forward to three days of interactive experiences (think: cold plunges, saunas, and product demonstrations), giveaways, book signings, and deep dives into all things health and wellness.
Pro tip: Use code “LALtoday” to save $100 on online tickets.
The custom home theater inside this Polk City listing is taking “Netflix and chill” to a whole new level. After spending the day on your 18 acres of land, traipse across mother-of-pearl tiles to your screening room for movie night. We won’t tell if you’re watching “KPop Demon Hunters” again.
Seasonal
Lakeside Village invites you to “Meet the Magic” with a full lineup of holiday events. It all starts with the lighting of a new Christmas tree on Friday, Nov. 21, followed by Dancing Lights Nights, Makers Markets, and a holiday concert. See the schedule.
On This Day
On Nov. 10, 1969, the first-ever episode of “Sesame Street” aired. Over the years, many of us have learned and laughed with Elmo, Cookie Monster, Bert + Ernie, and all the other familiar faces. Continue their legacy by helping a Lakeland organization in need.
Environment
Scientists have uncovered dozens of new aquatic species in the Southern Ocean, including a carnivorous “death ball” sponge that uses tiny hooks to capture its prey. You don’t need to travel that far to see wildlife for yourself — SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium is now open in Winter Haven. (ABC News)
Watch
We don’t make the rules — cooler weather calls for more nights cozied up on the couch. “The Golden Girls” was just named the best television series set in Florida, so it’s the perfect excuse to hit play (again). Bonus:Create a Lakeland day worthy of your favorite ladies. (Screen Rant)
Drink
A taste of the Big Easy is gaining popularity across the country, according to the New York Times. The Obituary is a martini made with gin, vermouth, absinthe, and lemon zest, and is experiencing a renaissance. See if you can find one at a local happy hour.
Film
Reel talk — have you seen “Trick ‘r Treat” recently? The 2007 film is the most popular horror movie in the Sunshine State, according to a new study. Now that spooky season has come and gone, we recommend a flick with ties to Swan City (including a few thrillers). (CW33)
Fun Fact
Posting on our local job board is like using a GPS for hiring. It gets you to the right talent without the scenic detours. Ready to find your dream candidate? Post your job today. It’s 100% free.
Take aim for a great cause at Pulling Together for Health, a 74-shot sporting clays tournament benefiting the LRH Foundation on Friday, Dec. 5, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Tenoroc Shooting Sports. Plus, teams and sponsorships are tax-deductible — register by Dec. 1 to make every shot count.*
The Buy
Gutter guards that make clogs physically impossible. Yes, really. Meet LeafGuard, a system with seamless construction that eliminates joints where leaks typically develop. The result? A maintenance-free solution that’s built to last. Bonus: Our readers save 75% off installation + an additional $200 off.
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.
Which CRA district do you think needs the biggest update? What changes would you make?
43%: Dixieland | “Improved traffic flow, increased public parking, and increased mixed-use development.” — Joe L.
38%: Midtown | “Green space/parks/playgrounds for community interaction.” — Susan
19%: Downtown | “More retail, more activities, like live concerts in Munn Park or on Lake Mirror.” — Cyn T.
If you missed last week’s Restore the Core Open House with the CRA, you can find representatives this weekend at the Dixieland Art & Alley Fest, as well as the Dixieland Night Market.
Don’t sleep on those silent book clubs — but if you do fall asleep while reading, thankfully, each one has plenty of coffee available. I just tried the Bear Necessities maple latte from Pour Bear, and I’m sad I didn’t try it earlier this season. It’s the perfect fall bev.
The best part? They serve it in a real mug, just like you’re at a friend’s house.