Hello Lakeland! Stay connected with the latest updates from around town. Let's dive in! ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Lakeland Comedy Underground and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What do you get when you cross an angry cow with an angry sheep? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Lakeland weighs removal of CareerSource Polk leader from housing board (newschief.com) — Lakeland officials are debating whether to remove CareerSource Polk leader Stacy Campbell-Domineck from the Lakeland Housing Authority board while state and county investigations into her fiscal management continue. Commissioners are also facing mounting resident concerns about the housing authority's leadership, records, and favoritism allegations, with renewed calls for an independent forensic audit focused partly on a CareerSource Polk program funded by the agency.
2. Lakeland Highlands Hospital to Host Kids Electric Car Program (centralfloridahealthnews.com) — Lakeland families of children with mobility challenges can soon benefit from a free kids' electric car event at Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital, where volunteers will customize ride-on cars for accessibility. UCF physical therapy students and local school volunteers will add adaptive switches, supports, and decorations, while families take the cars home afterward. The day also features City Garage Motorsports' racecar and crew for photos and autographs.
3. Lakeland cracks down on water restriction violations with fines up to $500 (tampabay28.com) — Lakeland residents now face fines up to $500 for breaking the city's once-a-week lawn watering rules as drought-driven restrictions tighten. The new ordinance lets city staff issue escalating penalties, while local experts share tips on deep, efficient watering and moisture-retaining products so homeowners can keep lawns and gardens healthy within the stricter schedule.
4. Stolen Gun Found In Bedroom Search Leads To Arrest Of Four Lakeland Teens (tampafp.com) — Four teenagers from the Kathleen area of Lakeland were arrested after deputies linked them to a vehicle burglary and stolen gun near Kathleen Road and Raulerson Road. Investigators say a search of one teen's bedroom uncovered the firearm, and all four now face multiple felony charges, with two also accused of deleting incriminating text messages.
5. Talented in-state target commits to FSU softball (usatoday.com) — A standout Lakeland Christian High School softball player, Paityn Donalson of Lakeland, has committed early to Florida State for the 2028 recruiting class. The versatile infielder-outfielder boasts eye-popping stats, including a .693 sophomore batting average, double-digit homers, and 35 stolen bases. Her success puts both her and Lakeland's softball scene in the statewide spotlight.
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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: An animal that's in a baaaaad mooood! (Thank you Lisa A. for sending it in!)
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