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🔮 Look into our Crystal ball
Here’s the “before” of the Crystal Lake boardwalk — we can’t wait to see the “after” this summer. | Photo via Polk County
...because we know what’s next for the Crystal Lake area. These two Polk County projects in the works could impact drivers, pedestrians, and fishers.
Crystal Lake boardwalk
The 600-ft boardwalk on the north side of the lake was built more than 25 years ago. It was closed to the public as it began to show its age in recent years.
In February, county commissioners approved a contract with Stokes Marine, Inc. to demolish + rebuild the boardwalk by late summer. The project will cost nearly $650,000, and the site is already blocked off.
The intersection will include crosswalk signals, making it safer to leave an SEU sporting event.
Down the road, the county is also planning a new stoplight with pedestrian crosswalks at the intersection of North Crystal Lake Drive and Longfellow Boulevard, just south of Southeastern University.
Commissioners gave the green light to use $411,187 of Polk County Roads and Drainage Division funding for the design portion of the project, but a timeline is TBA.
The Well Society is still warming up, with plans to open its Pilates, acupuncture, and chiropractic studio on Monday, April 27. If you download the Well Society app, you can book your first class or service to enjoy when it opens at the Shops at Lake Wire.
Coming Soon
That’s not the only new biz opening its doors this month.Chen’s Duck and Dumplings is set to open in late April in the former Hong BBQ & Hot Pot space on South Florida Avenue. Get hungry for roasted Peking duck, soup dumplings, noodle dishes, and full-service dining. (Business Debut)
Number
1,500. That’s how many wildfires have begun in Florida so far this year. Don’t forget that Polk County’s burn ban is still active until further notice, meaning no campfires or yard burning.
Edu
Want your student to attend a different school next year? Controlled Open Enrollment is now open for select Polk County Public Schools with open seats for the 2026-2027 school year. See what’s available.
The Word
Nostalgia. The definition: this throwback TV commercial from Explorations V Children’s Museum. Do you remember watching this on a Saturday morning?
Kids
Students ages 15-18 can get an inside look at the Lakeland Police Department’s operations at the summer High School Police Academy. Participants interested in law enforcement careers will gain free, hands-on experience in topics such as crime scene investigation and first aid.
Travel
April is Autism Acceptance Month, but MCO offers inclusive services for travelers with autism year-round. You can pick up a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard to let airport employees know you may need extra time or assistance, and visit Annie’s Space Sensory Room.*
Finance
Motley Fool Money’s top-rated cash back card just got even better. For a limited time, earn a $250 bonus after spending just $500 in the first 3 months. Plus, earn unlimited cash back and pay 0% intro APR well into 2027. Learn more + apply.*
Listen
Did you hear that? Most hearing aids have one processor. These bad boys have two, making speech clearer and crisper by processing speech and noise separately. No wonder 670,000+ customers love them.*
Category
Theater
🎟️ One for the money, two for the show
The 2025-2026 touring season included high-energy shows like "& Juliet.” | Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade
What’s better than flying to New York City to see a Broadway show? When top actors, dancers, and singers bring their talents to Central Florida on national tours.
These venues just announced their 2026-2027 Broadway seasons featuring award-winning shows.
Straz Center
New season tickets are now on sale for this downtown Tampa performing arts center located ~45 minutes from Lakeland.
“Buena Vista Social Club” | Oct. 6-11, 2026
“Death Becomes Her” | Dec. 8-13, 2026
“The Great Gatsby” | Jan. 19-24, 2027
“Oh, Mary!” | April 6-11, 2027
Dr. Phillips Center
New subscriptions aren’t on sale just yet for the Broadway season at this Orlando arts hub that’s ~1.5 hours away, but you can join the priority list for notifications.
“Hamilton” | Sept. 29-Oct. 18, 2026
“Wicked” | Jan. 6-31, 2027
“BOOP! The Musical” | March 30-April 4, 2027
“Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” | April 20-May 2, 2027
The Buy Editor Emily here. Meet my dog Meredith. Like so many incredible pups, she’s a rescue.
Until recently, I didn’t know much about her breed, or how to best care for her. Thanks to Embark’s Breed + Health Dog DNA Test, that’s all changed. I’ve learned Meredith is a mix of American Pit Bull, Australian Cattle Dog, Dalmatian, and that she may be at higher risk for Intervertebral Disc Disease. Now I can take proactive steps to support her health — like keeping her on a balanced diet and opting for a harness over a collar to help reduce strain on her spine.
Try Embark for your dog, discover their unique DNA, and give them the best possible care.
Finally, rain is back in the forecast, but remember that water restrictions are still in effect. When we asked which restriction would most impact your day-to-day life, most readers said lawn watering. The county suggests skipping lawn irrigation this week due to the rain.
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