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✈️ Time to take the controls
Editor Connor flew with Trevor Dobbs, owner of Dobbs Flight Service, to see what being a pilot is like — spoiler alert: it rules. | Photo by LALtoday
With SUN ‘n FUN just around the corner, are you itching to take to the skies? Dobbs Flight Service is helping Lakelanders hop in the pilot’s seat with more accessible training.
This isn’t like your high school driver’s ed class. It takes a lot of flight time to earn different licenses, from 40+ hours for a private pilot license to 1,500+ hours for a commercial pilot license. As you progress, you can add certifications, like Certified Flight Instructor.
The discovery flight lets you see how you fare in the air. Plus, you get views like this.
Photo by LALtoday
Full training can cost nearly six figures at most flight schools, but owner + lead flight instructor Trevor Dobbs said the average here is closer to $65,000. Private pilot hopefuls can expect to pay $12,000 to $17,000.
Ready to earn your wings? Every student starts with a discovery flight — we joined one and even got to take the controls. Total beginners are welcome, and Dobbs says consistent training will get you flight-ready in just one to 1.5 years.
Lakeland Regional Health Promise Run | 6 a.m. | Lake Mirror Promenade | $40+ | The run raises vital funds, helping physicians expand care and provide essential services — participants walk, jog, or run as a Promise to support the health of their community.*
There are just a few more days to watch elite athletes going for gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics before the closing ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 2:30 p.m. Watch live on NBC, stream it on Peacock, and catch up on any action you missed. (WTSP)
Eat
Polk County Taco Week returns March 6-15, meaning taco specials + discounts from eateries across Lakeland and beyond. Local spots like LoveBird and By the Chef are already on the list, with everything from hot chicken tacos to a birria pizza on the menu.
Number
50. That’s how many high-paying jobs Trimak Building Systems Inc. will bring after moving its headquarters from Plant City to Lakeland. The metal building manufacturer will receive a $400,000 Economic Development Infrastructure Incentive from the city. It’s expected to spend $7 million to build the new HQ. (The Ledger)
Edu
If you’re interested in going back to school or have a student heading to college this fall, don’t miss upcoming open houses at Polk State College. Catch the Lakeland Campus event on Tuesday, March 24 to tour the school, meet faculty, and get financial aid advice.
Lakelander
After 31 years at R. Bruce Wagner Elementary School, Edith Thomas has done it all. She started as a school nurse, then became a paraeducator, and she’s also tutored students on the side. Thomas is retiring, but she says she expects to take on a new role: volunteer. (Bay News 9)
Travel
TripAdvisor released its Travelers’ Choice Awards for the 15 “Best of the Best Beaches” in the US, and seven of them are in Florida. Ready for a trip? Find reader recs for three of these destinations in our nearby beach guide.
Plan Ahead
Hosting an event? Spread the word to our thousands of engaged subscribers. Our business promo portal makes it easy to find options that fit your budget, from standout email headers to scroll-stopping banner ads. First-time customers get 15% with code NEW15 at checkout.
Featured Deal
Filed your taxes yet? E-file makes online tax filing simple, and cheaper — it’s typically about half the cost of other online tax programs, so you can file without the sticker shock. Use code GET25NOW for 25% off your federal software at checkout.*
Event Spotlight
Cocobean Productions will lead a Bahamian Junkanoo Parade at 5 p.m.
Caribbean Carnival will take over Bonnet Springs Park tomorrow from 3 to 9 p.m., bringing island vibes for all. This is one of the biggest (and most high-energy) events the park hosts all year, so prep with these tips before you arrive.
Admission: Free, but bring a card for purchases since the park is cashless
Entertainment: Grammy winner Kabaka Pyramid & The Bebble Rockers, Melo Groove Steel Orchestra, and more
Vendors: Local businesses like The Conch Spot, SW Caribbean Delights, and Spurzile’s Gourmet
Pro tip: Complimentary trams are available from parking lots to the event on the Lawn near the Florida Children’s Museum. Hop on for a quick ride and save yourself a walk.
A set of shower steamers with 11 unique scents like jasmine, chamomile, lavender, and mint. The variety lets you tailor the experience to your mood: a relaxing spa night, a midday pick-me-up, or an energizing morning reset. Bonus: They make great gifts.
Flying this plane alongside Trevor of Dobbs Flight Service was the coolest thing I’ve done. He was a calming presence as I overcame my fear of flying while we soared over Lakeland — and even experienced negative g-force like you feel in space.
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