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👟 The perfect mix of fitness + friendship
Thanks to LKLD Girls Who Walk for letting this editor join — I’ll be back. | Photo by LALtoday
Let’s face it, making friends as adults can be hard. That’s what led Kaf Nelson to start LKLD Girls Who Walk in the spring of 2024. Since their first walk around Lake Mirror nearly two years ago, her sneaker-clad crew (and friend group) has multiplied.
The premise is simple: Women from all walks of life join up for weekly walks around Lakeland, often with strollers or friendly pups. Non-runners, have no fear. LKLD Girls Who Walk is more about socializing than speed.
This definitely counts as exercise — after a lap around Lake Hollingsworth, I got nearly 6,000 steps.
Photo by LALtoday
I joined for a three-mile stroll + yap session around Lake Hollingsworth, and the group was super welcoming. I liked that Nelson tells everyone to walk beside someone they haven’t talked to before reaching the end of the path, meaning even more chances to make friends.
It’s free to join the walks, which start at 6 p.m. on Thursdays. Meet at the Lakeland Public Library entrance tonight for a walk around Lake Morton.
11-16. That’s the number of named storms AccuWeather predicts for the next hurricane season. Last year, there were 13 named storms, five of which developed into hurricanes but did not make landfall in the US. Hurricane season begins Monday, June 1. (The Ledger)
Development
A new sports complex with a 6,000-seat stadium, track, and classrooms is planned for Holloway Park. The $18 million project would be a joint effort between PCPS, Florida Southern College, and Polk County, with each splitting the cost evenly. Timelines are TBD. (The Ledger)
Holiday
Hop to it if you want reservations. The Terrace Grille is hosting an Easter Grand Buffet on Sunday, April 5 with Easter Bunny visits + all-you-can-eat fare. Pro tip: You can also book a table for the three-course Mother’s Day brunch on Sunday, May 10.
Cause
Lakeland International Airport is offering a way to support TSA agents by collecting donations of gas and grocery store gift cards. If you feel inclined to donate, bring cards in $10 or $20 increments to LAL’s Administration Offices during business hours on weekdays.
Sports
The results are in from the 2026 Polk Senior Games, where new records were set in sports from swimming to skeet shooting. Special awards also went to the oldest competitor, 99-year-old Joan Harman, and the most-represented communities, including Highland Fairways in Lakeland.
Kids
Let kids ages 9-12 run wild at the Wonderfully Wild: 4-H Nature Explorers summer camp. Campers will try activities like archery and beekeeping Monday, June 29-Thursday, July 2 at Circle B Bar Reserve. Registration is open, with no 4-H membership required.
Gallery
What do you get when you cross a Circle B alligator and a coral snake? Eye-popping images by photographer Jon Burket. (Local 10 News)
Edu
Become a better leader in SEU’s Doctor of Management program. The fully online doctoral program equips students to lead with purpose, insight, and integrity in business roles and beyond. Discover program details + apply.*
Listen
Discover health insights tailored just for you with Lakeland Regional Health’s podcast, Inside Scope. Hosted by Dr. Daniel Haight, each episode delves into today’s popular health topics. Tune in through their site or on platforms like Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for engaging expert conversations.*
Health
Your health deserves a plan, not a guess. ReadyRX’s GLP-1 program is designed to support steady progress through expert-led care. If your BMI is 27+, you may qualify for 24/7 medical access and program support. Check your eligibility and save $100 as a new patient with code HEALTH100.*
Editor’s Pick
Be careful with vinyl collecting — once you start, it’s hard to stop.
Photo by LALtoday
I am what you would call “chronically online,” but I’m trying to be less attached to my phone. Looks like I’m not alone, with Google searches for “analog hobbies” recently jumping by 160%.
Armed with a word search book I picked up at Inklings this weekend, I’m hunting for more old-school hobbies. If you’re with me, here’s where to get in on the trendiest activities:
The top-trending hobby is needlepoint, but finding a local shop or group for it is like searching for a needle in a haystack. If you know of a needlepoint resource or have another fun screen-free hobby we should try, drop us a line.
The Buy
New deals on best-selling apparel, top-rated home appliances, beauty must-haves, and more drop every day until Tuesday, March 31, thanks to Amazon’s Big Spring Sale. These are our top five for today:
🫧 Stock up on Olaplex’s weightless dry shampoo while it’s on sale for the lowest price yet this year.
🍚 Make the perfect rice every time thanks to the discount on this top-rated rice cooker.
👠 Hurry — the deal on these date night-ready heeled sandals is only available until this afternoon.
🏓 Also only available until this afternoon is the deal on this 4.7-star rated pickleball set that features lightweight paddles, balls, and a case.
🧴 Take 50% off Neutrogena’s rapid wrinkle repair moisturizer that boosts skin elasticity + reduces fine lines.
Hannah Montana isn’t the only one with a 20-year anniversary this week. Black & Brew Coffee House and Bistro is in party mode too, offering deals + giveaways through tomorrow. Bang Bang Bakehouse is also serving an exclusive rum cake at all three locations on its Coffee’s Best Friend tour.
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