Good morning Lakeland! Your connection to what's happening around town is here. Take a sip of coffee and read on. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Lakeland Comedy Underground and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: Why did the burglar wear blue gloves? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. 5-year-old 'Affirmation Princess' inspires spreading positivity, kindness (baynews9.com) — A 5-year-old Lakeland kindergartener known as the "Affirmation Princess" is using daily positive statements to build her own confidence and encourage other local children. Guided by her mother, she now speaks at community events and online, urging families to use affirmations to counter bullying and help kids feel strong, loved, and secure in who they are.
2. Record-setting cross country runners among nominees for Tremendous 10 poll (theledger.com) — Lakeland Christian's Emma Wilkinson just broke an 18-year-old Polk County cross country record, and fellow Lakeland Christian athletes are also starring in volleyball and other sports. The Tremendous 10 poll highlights standout performances from across Polk County, and readers can email weekly nominations to help recognize more local high school athletes.
3. Florida homebuyers explore emerging housing destinations (latination.com) — Lakeland is emerging as one of the nation's hottest new-construction markets, drawing over 83% of its home views from out-of-area buyers and offering a median price around $315,000, far below Miami. Analysts say remote workers and families are flocking to cities like Lakeland for affordability, space, and no state income tax, while local governments invest in infrastructure to handle growth.
4. The Scoop: Tue. Sep. 8, 2026, Tampa Bay and Florida headlines by WMNF (wmnf.org) — Lakeland officials are weighing tougher enforcement of Phase 3 drought water restrictions, including possible fines, but some commissioners worry residents haven't been adequately notified. That local debate appears alongside statewide stories on executions, a major property‑tax amendment fight, Labor Day union organizing in Tampa, and controversy over a Florida fight promoter.
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Ok Lakeland! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: So he wouldn't get caught red handed. (Thank you Vicki B. for sending it in!)
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