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After Months of Anticipation, Wingnutz Opens in Dixieland Thursday, May 14
Bartow native Pat Spinosa wants the Buffalo staple coming to the former Good Thyme location to keep Lakelanders in town with good wings and football.
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Polk County’s Burn Ban is Back as of Wednesday, May 6
Polk County Fire Rescue Fire Chief Shawn Smith asked people to think of their families, friends, and neighbors and abide by the ban.
New Congressional Districts Shift Boundaries in Lakeland and Surrounding Areas
The new map puts the majority of Lakeland and Polk County within District 18, represented by Congressman Scott Franklin.
Lakeland Commissioners Compromise on Stormwater Rates
Beginning in January 2027, monthly fees will increase by $1.17 annually to help fund $69 million in overdue drainage and water-quality projects.
Lakeland Recognizes Beautification Award Winners for May 2026
For May’s beautification award Lakeland recognized a classic shady Florida yard and the hidden gem of a MIDFLORIDA location
For Lakeland Residents Without a Car, Getting Around Can Be a Daily Struggle
For about 1 in 13 Lakeland households, getting to work, groceries, school, and doctor visits can mean long walks in heat or rain, missed buses, and costly workarounds.
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‘Folklore & Fairytales’ Opens at The AGB Saturday, May 2
The exhibit by artist Andrea Dezsö includes blown glass sculpture, prints, vinyl wall installations, tunnel books, ceramic dinnerware, and embroidery.
Florida Poly Students Tackle Algae in Lakeland Wetlands
Florida Poly students are on the front lines at Se7en Wetlands, testing a new way to cut algae off at the source.
Polk Schools Commits to Improving Student Access to Mental Health Care
At PEACE’s 26th Annual Nehemiah Action, Superintendent Fred Heid agreed to create a plan to improve student and guardian access to mental health support.
More News
Lakeland Man Known for Appearing as Santa Arrested in Polk Sheriff’s Sting
Thomas Allen Hicks, who first played Santa in the Lakeland Christmas Parade in 2017, was arrested in an undercover operation to identify individuals using the internet for the sexual exploitation of children.
Demand for Skilled Trades Growing Faster than Polk Workforce
How are employers and colleges recruiting the next generation of skilled tradespeople?
Lakeland Residents Sound Alarm On Traffic, Flooding As City Eyes Costly Catch-Up
Community survey shows rising frustration as commissioners confront aging systems, staffing gaps, and rising costs.
Continuing Bent’s Legacy: Lakeland Bicycle Co. Opens in Dixieland
Less than a quarter mile from the former Bent’s Cycling, Zachary Kulp’s new shop builds on more than 60 years of tradition.
Peace River to Run Dry South of Lakeland as Drought Forces Water Tradeoff
The Southwest Florida Water Management District will hold water in Lake Hancock — protecting Circle B habitat while cutting off downstream flow.
Three Polk County Restaurants Face Off at Festival del Sanguich
Enjoy samples of delicious food, vendors, activities, and entertainment at the second annual Festival del Sanguich Friday, April 24, at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium.
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