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💦 5 extreme water restrictions to know
There’s never been a better time to think twice before using water. | Photo by @gabysartgallery
After a dry summer in 2025, the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) is experiencing a months-long water shortage.
The 12-month rainfall deficit has increased to 13.7 inches since SWFWMD announced Phase I water restrictions in December, so modified Phase III “extreme” restrictions begin today. Here are five to know:
Residents may only water lawns one day per week, depending on their address, and only from 12:01 a.m. to 4 a.m. or 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Handwatering plants is still allowed, but only before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
Water features may only operate four hours per day.
Car washing is allowed on your lawn watering day.
Restaurants can only serve water upon request.
SWFWMD’s restrictions apply to all of Polk County and will be in effect through Wednesday, July 1.
Asked
Asked
Which water restriction will most impact your daily life?
A. Lawn watering B. Handwatering C. Water features D. Car washing E. Restaurant service
No. 4. That’s where the Lakeland-Winter Haven metro ranked nationally for 2024-2025 population growth. New US census data shows that the population grew 2.7% year over year, and Polk officials now believe the county will reach 1 million residents by 2030. (The Ledger)
Biz
Time is running out to shop at the Winn-Dixie on North Socrum Loop Road before it closes this month and becomes an Aldi. On the flip side, you can transfer your rewards from the two outgoing Harveys as they transition into Winn-Dixie stores if you’re a loyal shopper. (LkldNow)
Holiday
Speaking of grocery stores, plan your shopping trips around Easter, which is coming up this Sunday, April 5. Publix, Aldi, and Sam’s Club will be closed in observance, but Target, Walmart, and Winn-Dixie will be open. Forgot to shop?Head out for brunch. (The Ledger)
Number
2,152. That’s how many volunteer slots are open for SUN ‘n FUN, which starts Tuesday, April 14. Sign up to help fill a need on the admissions, gate security, or auto parking teams.
Travel
Attention traveling foodies, plan a trip to Rocca in Tampa (less than an hour from Lakeland) for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. Chef Bryce Bonsack just became a James Beard finalist thanks to handmade dishes and this mozzarella cart experience.
Community
When Lyndsey Venrick saw a need for more accessible menstrual products in Polk, she started the county’s first Period Pantry. There are now five pantries stocked with free items, including two in Lakeland. Learn how to get involved. (WFTS)
Eat
Reese’s Peanut Butter Bunnies are the most popular Easter candy in Florida, according to DoorDash. The study also found that Floridians prefer blue Peeps, and we’re in good company — 16 other states agree.
Answered
When did Bok Tower Gardens host its first Easter Sunrise Service? This year marks the 100th sunrise on Iron Mountain since the event began in 1927. Find more springtime events in our April Plan Ahead.
Pro Tip
If you’re a Costco shopper, you’re probably familiar with the ever-popular $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about? Don’t miss the details on vacation deals, members-only movie tickets, and more.*
Event Spotlight
The Kathleen Area Historical Society says Heritage Day is perfect for “the young’uns or the young-at-heart.”
Photos via Kathleen Area Historical Society
Take a step back in time at the Kathleen Area Historical Society’s Heritage Day, happening 9 a.m.-2 p.m. tomorrow, April 4. This free event at Heritage Park (8950 N. Campbell Rd.) celebrates the Society’s 35-year anniversary and decades of Kathleen history.
The agenda is jam-packed with live music, a market with local goods + fresh produce, pioneer skills demonstrations, and a kids’ Easter egg hunt.
Come hungry for vittles, too — pancakes, biscuits, and gravy will be served until 10 a.m., followed by a lunch spread of chicken + dumplings, greens, lima beans, and cornbread at 11 a.m.
April = new spring shoe drop. Shop a great spring shoe for every price range:
👟 Under $25: A No. 1 best-seller, these arch support flip-flops feature a yoga foam footbed and just look like vacation.
👟 Under $50: This cushioned footbed sandal is ultra-comfortable, thanks to soft leather, a small platform, and an adjustable web strap (it’s also 50% off).
👟 Under $100: Go for fresh white tennis shoes with Vionic’s court sneaker that’s top-rated by 200+ five-star reviews.
👟 Under $150: Get ready to hear compliments when you wear Clarks’ newly dropped floral wedge, available in black, white, or red.
👟 Under $250: This newly released wedge espadrille from patricia green is worth the splurge, thanks to its chic nautical design and sporty grip sole.
On Wednesday evening, I watched the Artemis II launch from Majestic View Drive in the Lakeland Highlands area. There were a few other Lakelanders there, too, including a photographer with a high-powered camera. If that was you — or if you got a shot of your own — send in your photos.
It wasn’t super clear, but we definitely saw the rocket trail in the sky.
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