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Lakeland Recognizes Beautification Award Winners for April 2026
The city recognized the exceptionally well-maintained yard of Yvonne McShay and the planting of natives and trees at the Wabash Self Storage in this month’s Beautification awards.
See It Before It Leaves: Imaginations: The Adventures of ‘boxboy Jr.’ and the Art of Alex Lanier
Take a whimsical journey through the imagination of boxboy Jr. at The AGB before the exhibit closes on Sunday, April 19.
Changes Coming to Three Lakeland Grocery Stores
Winn-Dixie to become ALDI, and two Harveys Supermarkets locations will be converted to Winn-Dixie stores.
SEU to Host Community Night Focused on Screen Time and Children
“Through the Looking Glass: Falling Down the Digital Rabbit Hole” on Tuesday, April 7, will equip attendees with information and strategies to promote safe and healthy digital habits.
For 1 in 5 Students, Reading is a Barrier — Roberts Academy Is Working to Change That
Florida Southern College’s Roberts Academy marks 15 years of helping students with dyslexia close literacy gaps — and reshape their futures.
Traffic Delays Expected on I-4 and U.S. 98 This Week
Monday, March 30, through Friday, April 3, FDOT urges drivers to use caution, be aware of surroundings in construction zones, and plan for additional travel time.
‘No Kings’ Rally Draws More Than 4,000
The peaceful protest on Saturday, March 28, included speakers and a march on to Lemon Street and back to the park.
Fewer Doctors, Fewer Options: Where Can Women Turn for Health Care in Polk County?
With fewer OB-GYNs, high uninsured rates, and the closing of Lakeland’s Planned Parenthood, local providers and safety-net programs are trying to meet the rising demand for affordable care.
Young Chefs Take the Spotlight at IDEA Lakeland Cook-Off
National program uses hands-on cooking to build confidence and encourage healthier habits among students.
Lake Morton Historic Home Tour Returns March 28
After a hiatus in 2025, the 21st annual tour returns this Saturday, featuring nine homes in the Lake Morton neighborhood.
‘Extreme’ Drought Triggers New Water Limits Across Lakeland Area
The Southwest Florida Water Management District has declared a modified Phase III water shortage and tightened restrictions as of April 3.
Lakeland Symphony Orchestra Showcases Broadway Favorites in Final Season Performance
Lakeland Symphony Orchestra (LSO) is bringing the magic of Broadway to Branscomb Auditorium to close out their 60th season. For one night only on April 4, “Defying Gravity: Bewitching Broadway” showcases acclaimed vocalists and the full symphony orchestra performing an evening of beloved Broadway hits. “The LSO’s versatile musicians will dazzle you with this performance…
Hilary Holley Wins HD51 in Special Election
The Republican candidate defeated Democrat Edwin Pérez in the race.
‘Restore the Core’ Continues Meetings To Gather Feedback on Midtown and Downtown Plans
The Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency will host stakeholder meetings on March 24 and April 2 to share updated plans for the city’s central districts.
Northsiders: Learn More About District 51 Special Election Candidates
Hilary Holley and Edwin Pérez are on the ballot in District 51’s special election on Tuesday, March 24.
Protesters Take to Memorial Blvd. Ahead of Talbot House Appeal
An April 6 hearing could reopen the debate over a proposed homeless services campus on Memorial Boulevard.
Downtown Lakeland Enters New Chapter as Three Apartment Properties Go Up for Sale
Once risky, Lake Mirror Tower, NoBay and The Gardens are now being marketed as reliable, high-occupancy assets.
Army Maj. Cody Khork Returns to Polk County
The hearse carrying Khork’s remains was escorted by hundreds of law enforcement and veterans from Lakeland Linder International Airport to Oak Ridge Funeral Home in Winter Haven.
Judd Recommends a Path for Undocumented Residents Not Breaking the Law
The Polk County sheriff clarifies comments made during a meeting of Florida’s State Immigration Enforcement Council.
Florida’s 2026 Legislative Session Ends: What Passed, What Failed, and What’s Next?
The session has ended — without a budget. From DEI bans to new voter verification requirements, here are some of the bigger bills that passed and failed, and what lawmakers will tackle in special sessions.
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