Good morning Lakeland! We're back again in your inbox, keeping you updated with what's happening in and around town. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Amateur Cornhole Tournament with $1k cash prize pool and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What are the two favorite words for a shark to hear? 🤔 (Answer below!)
• Lakeland City Commission unanimously approved an $872.4 million budget (lakelandgazette.info) — Lakeland's City Commission has approved an $872.4 million budget for Fiscal 2027, keeping the property tax rate flat while increasing overall spending 7%. Expect continued investment in utilities, police, fire, parks, and major infrastructure, plus airport and streetscape projects, though a proposed Holloway Park pickleball complex was cut. These choices shape your services, bills, and neighborhood improvements for the coming year.
• Lakeland Man On Bicycle Caught With Stolen Speaker From Driveway Trailer, Polk Deputies Say (tampafp.com) — A Lakeland homeowner spotted a man bicycling away with a speaker taken from an enclosed trailer in his driveway, leading deputies to arrest 52-year-old Christopher Albert Pryor near Shepherd Road. Polk County Sheriff's officials say Pryor, who has multiple prior theft charges, now faces third-degree felony burglary and felony petit theft counts.
• Catherine Verbeten (thebaynet.com) — Lakeland is mourning Catherine Elizabeth Verbeten, 69, who passed away here on September 13. Remembered for her faith, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit, she devoted herself to family, church, children's activities, and crafting, and even supported a Maryland homeless shelter with homemade meals. Her large family, including children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, will honor her privately and continue her traditions.
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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: "MAN OVERBOARD!" (Thank you M J. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
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