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Photo 1: The Tampa International Airport sign (black letters on a white background) on the side of a highway with palm trees surrounding it. Photo 2: A man and woman walk down a hallway with small roller suitcases. Photo 3: From left to right, a man, young girl, and woman stand in the entrance to an airport with their hands on suitcase handles.

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The downtown Lakeland skyline and businesses as seen from East Main Street

Work

The who’s who and what’s what of Lakeland’s economy: Meet the top employers and industries

Explore the leading economic drivers in Lakeland — from exciting, new technology to top leaders in growing and distributing delicious eats.

August 20, 2025

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Staff

Food

So close, but so far: Chains readers wish were in Lakeland

Sure, you could take an hour drive to your favorite chain restaurants — but wouldn’t it be better if they were right down the road?

August 19, 2025

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Connor Jacobson

The front entrance and hallway of a Sola Salons studio, with a wood-slat feature wall and a modern light fixture.

Business

Get a new look at Lakeside Village this summer

Change things up with a new outfit, facial, or hairstyle from these new businesses that recently opened in the open-air shopping center.

August 18, 2025

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Connor Jacobson

An aerial view of Market Plaza in Lake Wales, with people walking on the brick and concrete paths surrounded by greenery.

City

Lake Wales is adding a social district — should Lakeland?

The city will be the first in Polk County to allow for open containers of alcohol to be enjoyed between businesses in its Arts, Culture and Entertainment District. Now, we want to know if Lakeland be next to add a social district.

August 18, 2025

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Connor Jacobson

Photo 1: 4 college students sit at a table with laptops, two with their back to the camera and two facing the camera, one in a red tshirt that say "Southeastern University Fire" and one in a grey sweater. Photo 2: Two students walk down the sidewalk of a college campus in Florida, surrounded by palm trees and greenery. Both carry bags. Photo 3: A college student sits at a table looking at an open laptop, with books beside her on the table.