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🎺 Lakeland has flower power
We’re not throwing shade — we love seeing these trees bloom. | Photo by @alexander.mclendon
Over the weekend, Swan City came alive with blooming pink and yellow trumpet trees. How much do you know about these flowering flora? These tips will have you saying Tabe-booyah.
Most trumpet trees are scientifically known as Tabebuia (pronounced ta-buh-boo-yuh), but some were reclassified as Handroanthus. Their more common moniker comes from their trumpet-shaped pink, purple, or yellow flowers. They can reach up to 30-40 ft in height and 25 ft in spread, so you can’t miss them when they start blossoming in late winter, just before their leaves grow back in the spring.
Yasalonis recommends referring to the ASPCA’s list of toxic plants to protect pets.
Is it true that these trees are toxic to pets? According to Anne Yasalonis of Polk County’s UF/IFAS Extension Residential Horticulture program, “The important thing to remember is that there are varying degrees of toxicity in many plants, and then the variety of animals/humans that are affected.”
They do have some toxic properties, but you should treat them with caution, like any other plant.
Starting Wednesday, April 1, Lakeland Electric’s fuel charge will increase from $47 to $62 per per 1,000 kilowatt-hours. The average customer can expect their bill to increase by around $15 per month. The base charge will remain at $72.06.
Open
Fold’s Pizza is now open at The Joinery, taking over the former Ava Pizzeria booth. It’s a new concept from the team behind Pizza Odyssey, offering foldable Neapolitan slices. We can’t wait to try the truffle mushroom staff pick.
Coming Soon
Sisu Sauna and Wellness Studio is just heating up on Edgewood Drive. It’s currently under construction, but Sisu promises to be Lakeland’s first guided sauna, cold plunge, and yoga studio. Memberships are already available at discounted prices.
Ranked
Wellspring Gardens got two green thumbs up from Greenhouse Management, ranking No. 1 on the magazine’s 2025 Best Places to Work in Horticulture list. The family-owned biz specializes in ecommerce, and it shipped 150,000 plants to online customers last year. See what’s in stock.
Number
10,849. That’s how many fans bought a ticket to see Ty Myers at the Florida Strawberry Festival, making him the highest-selling artist in festival history. There’s still time to get tickets for this week’s headline shows.
Real Estate
A former hotel in downtown Winter Haven has been transformed into The Jade apartment complex. Units range from one to two bedrooms, and residents can use a private coworking space, heated pool, and fitness center. Scroll through floor plans.
Arts
We’ll be Bach. This year’s Bach Festival of Central Florida will include a performance at College Heights United Methodist Church on Sunday, March 15. More than 40 musicians + singers will perform Bach’s choral works under the direction of local conductor Dr. Larry Sledge. (The Ledger)
Development
Good news, Sonny’s BBQ fans. The Bartow restaurant has been closed since catching fire in January, but its operators are planning to rebuild in the same spot. Expect a drive-thru, a new look, and possibly a demolition date soon. (The Ledger)
Our perfect brunch lineup: smash burgers, fries, Brazilian cheese bread, and mimosas. | Photo by LALtoday
Whether you’re flying out or just filling up, Sora Eatery is the place for you at Lakeland International Airport. Here’s what Lakelanders and travelers can expect from the restaurant nearly a year after its opening.
Service: Open daily for brunch/lunch service, plus evening dining hours on Sunday, Thursday, and Friday
Location: Lakeland International Airport’s second floor, pre-security (read: no plane ticket required)
You’ll find a variety of breakfast and lunch options on Sora’s menu. Most items have an Asian-fusion flair, like Japanese milk bread French toast and Korean barbecue-style burgers. We’re in love with the kimchi fries.
Not in the mood for a full meal? Sora has plenty of grab-and-go options at the ready, including onigiri from Omusubee. The restaurant also added a bar menu of small bites to enjoy with a craft cocktail.
If you’re reading this newsletter right at 6 a.m., pour a cup of coffee and peek outside to see the total lunar eclipse. The key viewing times are 6:04-7:02 EST to see the blood moon before it sets. Send in any photos you take so we can share them with those who slept in today.
