The Lakelander

07/29/2024

Figure skating, Polk's oldest dog club, a dance center with a big city vibe and ambition, a world class basket weaver and more.

The people, the art, the culture of Lakeland—a perfect read to feel more connected to your neighbors and be inspired!

Enjoy our digital version of the Arts & Culture Issue, which is LIVE NOW.

https://issuu.com/thelakelander/docs/tl102

07/26/2024

Are you ready to step back in time to small town America this weekend for a fresh rendition of the classic musical Bye Bye Birdie by With Love Productions Inc. at Harrison School for the Arts?

We're biased, but we can't wait to see our Creative Director Jon Sierra tap dance and bring the crowd to life!

Check out our Q&A with creative director Alessandra Stillinger and get your tickets today!

Classic Musical “Bye Bye Birdie” in Town This Weekend Only by RJ Walters | Jul 26, 2024 | Top feature Q& A w/ Alessandra Stillinger With Love Productions Founder and Creative Director   Catch Bye Bye birdie This Weekend Harrison School for the Arts, 750 Hollingsworth Rd. Friday, 7:30 p.m.Saturd...

07/22/2024

Every time The Lay Group with EXP Realty sells a home, it’s a win not only for the buyer or seller, it’s a win for the community.

This real estate team—led by 20-year real estate veteran Jen Lay—sold nearly 100 homes last year, and every time a deal closed, 10 percent of the commissions went to Lay Legacy, a local non-profit dedicated to helping single parents buy their first home and funding local projects to enhance educational opportunities for youth.

Learn all about this Lakelander's expertise buying and selling and her heart for the community that extends beyond being a top realtor.

Top Producers in Lakeland Real Estate Jen Lay, eXp Realty Every time The Lay Group sells a home, it’s a win not only for the buyer or seller, it’s a win for the community. This real estate team—led by 20-year real estate veteran Jen Lay—sold nearly 100 homes last year, and every time a deal ...

07/19/2024

In these dog days of summer ☀️ where plenty of 🌩 come out of nowhere, it's hard to understate the value of a good roof.

In less than six years, locally owned and operated Stronghold Roofing & Solar has become an a premier roofing company, holding their employees to a high level of customer service and excellence.

Find out how Stronghold's purpose goes back to a rock solid foundation they have built under every roof.

As the old saying goes, there’s no such thing as an overnight success, but Lakeland’s Stronghold Roofing and Solar might be about as close as a company can get. It completed its first roof in October 2018 and today, with 75 employees, puts a new top on 25 homes per week. It’s expanded outside ...

07/12/2024

This lifelong Lakelander empathizes with the emotions of buying and selling homes, as well as the complex realities of the current market.

Jennifer Conner Homes, Xcellence Realty, Lakeland is ready to work with her extensive network of local experts to get you the best deal possible for the home you've always dreamed of.

Find out what makes this Top Producer a mainstay in Lakeland real estate.

Top Producers in Lakeland Real Estate Jennifer Conner, Xcellence Realty Jennifer Conner grew up in Lakeland and raised her children in the Swan City, providing her a distinct perspective on the housing market and a strong emotional connection to helping locals make some of the most important decisio...

07/10/2024

Vintage never goes out of style! Our friend at Rejuvenation Home Studio LLC takes us inside a recent makeover that inspires the eclectic daydreamer in us all.

What elements do you like best about this reno project?

One recent client hired the experienced professionals of the Central Florida interior design firm so their space could take care of not only their family of six (including two dogs) but could also be an inviting escape for friends and family.

07/08/2024

Spend five minutes with Yolanda Floyd Realtor and you’ll likely be sold. Not necessarily on a house she is showing you or her vision for staging a home you’re trying to sell, but you’ll be sold that the team lead for The Flourish Group at Paige Wagner Homes has what it takes to make any deal happen and work through any adversity you might encounter.

Read her inspiring story and see if she might be the perfect fit to help you buy or sell!

Top Producers in Lakeland Real Estate Yolanda Floyd, PWH Realty Spend five minutes with Yolanda Floyd and you’ll likely be sold. Not necessarily on a house she is showing you or her vision for staging a home you’re trying to sell, but you’ll be sold that the team lead for The Flourish Group at...

07/05/2024

Christine Hubbert, Realtor and John Hubbert Jr., Realtor have become a real estate tag-team to be reckoned with thanks to the unique lenses they have seen real estate through over the years and their driving passion to make a difference for Lakelanders.

Find out what their top tips are for buyers and sellers in today's market and how they keep the process personalized and simple.

Christine and John Hubbert have become a real estate tag-team to be reckoned with thanks to the unique lenses they have seen real estate through over the years and their driving passion to make a difference for Lakelanders.

07/02/2024

When Jordan Prais - 54 Realty is buying and selling homes, he has his game face on!

The former college basketball star is all about getting his clients the best deal possible and navigating the ever-changing market using tried and true principles that he has found to be slam dunks.

See what Jordan has to say about winning with Polk County real estate.

Forgive Jordan Prais if he says a deal appears to be a “slam dunk” or if he uses a shot clock analogy to describe how a client has limited time to put in an offer on a hotly contested property.

07/01/2024

The sun is alive and well here in Central Florida ☀️ but how are you doing at protecting your skin?

Local entrepreneur and medical professional Rohini Philip has committed herself to creating an SPF 33 invisible mineral sunscreen that is safe and you can be can be proud of purchasing.

Find out the life-changing experience that led to the founding of Roskin and how the University of South Florida alum built a product you can now purchase on Amazon.com.

A Breakthrough Sunscreen That Mirrors a CEO’s Personal Experience READ IN THE FULL DIGITAL VERSION OF ISSUE 101 By RJ WaltersPhotography by Jordan Randall Locally owned and operated Roskin Beauty is a natural skincare line that is as much about mineral-based products that create radiant skin as it...

06/27/2024

In our HOME Issue that hit stands earlier this week, you will get to know some of the finest buyers and sellers of local real estate.

Paige Wagner, the visionary behind Paige Wagner Homes, is passionate about seeing properties for what they can become and finding creative solutions to help her clients win.

Check out the Southeastern University alum as a potential running mate if you're in the market to buy or sell.

Paige Wagner casts a vision for what a space could be to a potential buyer it becomes clear that buying and selling homes is not a science for her—rather it’s an art.

06/26/2024

"There's no place like home."

It's about the people, but it's also about the investment, the interior design and making the space truly yours.

Our HOME ISSUE is ON STANDS NOW.

Digital version 📲 https://issuu.com/thelakelander/docs/tl101

Meet some of Lakeland's top producing realtors, go inside a historic Hollingsworth home,and be inspired by local designs.

06/19/2024

It's time for a checkup! Hear from Lakeland Regional Health CEO Danielle Drummond about what it's like to meet the evolving health needs of Lakelanders, what the hospital's expansion plan looks like, and her favorite things about living in City of Lakeland, FL - Government.

How does LRH create solutions to meet the evolving needs of people, especially post-pandemic, in communities that continue to grow and have more people who need quality healthcare?

06/12/2024

One local real estate brokerage is garnering national acclaim and growing its brand and footprint locally.

The story of the evolution of RE/MAX Experts - Central Florida is one of hard work, collaboration and a few surprises along the way—even for the lady most responsible for it its growth.

Consider one of their experts for your next sale or purchase.

Above the Crowd How One Local Realtor Built a BrokerageThat Has Earned National Acclaim READ IN THE FULL DIGITAL VERSION OF ISSUE 100 By RJ WaltersPhotography by Jordan Randall People who know Andrea Dockery aren’t at all surprised by her success, but her journey to being named the RE/MAX 2023 Bro...

06/05/2024

💥 UP FOR THE CHALLENGE 💥
Phillip Walker of Lakeland Chamber of Commerce

https://thelakelander.com/up-for-the-challenge-phillip-walker-lakeland-chamber-of-commerce/

Phillip Walker has been firmly ingrained in Lakeland so long that when he was a young boy Publix stores had donut shops in them instead of full-service bakeries.

He served as an officer at LakelandPD, he served for 12 years as a commissioner for City of Lakeland, FL - Government and the Polk County Public Schools grad rarely meets a stranger.

As the Vice President of Partnerships and Research for the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, the 70-year old leads initiatives that help the underserved and minority business communities, while keeping his heart and hands in the development of Lakeland as a whole.

Enjoy our wide-ranging Q&A with Walker from Issue 100!

06/03/2024

Local fuel and expert customer service for local entrepreneurs, businesses and ideas. 🔥

That's how Bank of Central Florida is helping Lakeland-based global players like ittworld and movers and shakers like Thomas DiCesare of Waverly Advisors, LLC succeed.

Find out what sets this community bank apart when it comes to propelling people and businesses forward.

Propelling Business(es) Forward: The Local Bank That is a Proud Catalyst for Countless Companies and Entrepreneurs By RJ WaltersPhotography by Jordan RandallDeveloped in partnership with Bank of Central Florida Rick Ricart is in a hotel room in Jerusalem, making slight changes to an upcoming Holy La...

05/31/2024

More than 500 people are moving to Polk County each week, new homes and buildings are going up at record rates and the demands on our infrastructure are rising.

Investors and developers from across the country have discovered the gem of Lakeland, and the dance between who we have been and who we are going to be is happening right before our eyes.

The story of Shlomo and David Sinay, Brookyln-based developers behind the newly-opened lifestyle living Welcome Canary Apartments, illustrates the incredible opportunities we have and the challenges our leaders face.

Mayor Bill Mutz of City of Lakeland, FL - Government and Valerie Ferrell from Lakeland CED - Community & Economic Development offer insights and stories about the growth of our community that you don't want to miss!

Trying to define “smart” growth locally or correctly guessing what the next three to five years is going to look like in the country’s fastest growing county is a lot like trying to predict what might happen if a couple of Lakeland icons invited an established developer of urban high-rises fro...

05/29/2024

"Where do YOU spend your money locally?"

"When's the last time YOU checked in on a City of Lakeland, FL - Government commission meeting?"

Katie Worthington Decker is all about asking probing questions and bringing people along with her and the Lakeland Economic Development Council on the path to smart growth and development of our city.

Enjoy our sit down with one of Lakeland's brightest movers and shakers!

If you sit with Katie Worthington Decker for more than five minutes you will realize she is lively, she is motivated and she believes that Lakeland’s finest future is one where more people are actively using their gifts instead of just talking about what could be done better.

05/23/2024

Business students at Florida Southern College have been brewing something new this past school year.

Find out how Morning Grind FSC is providing hands-on entrepreneurial experience and marketing opportunities—and see if this start up is making money or simply teaching lessons.

It is a typical Wednesday morning for Florida Southern College (FSC) students Lauren Schreader and Daniel Jones, as they operate FSC’s new student-run coffee cart, Morning Grind. While Schreader makes her favorite beverage, the maple spice latte, for a fellow Moccasin, Daniel is greeting customers...

05/15/2024

Our current cover story has it all—true love, triumph over trial and plenty of Lakeland being Lakeland in this story about Harrison School for the Arts alums. ❤️

Nick Wood and Camryn Brook share a beautiful bond that has had to overcome the unexpected difficulties of life leading up to their wedding...

05/06/2024

Trendy, customizable wedding dress options are available without jumping on I-4 or making a day trip.

Find out how Shantel Griffin has married years of experience and her newfound love of Lakelanders at Elope Bride .

You Can Elope If You Want To: New Lakeland Bridal Boutique Provides Off-the-Rack Options   By Victoria BardegaPhotography by Jordan Randall St. Petersburg native and bridal shop owner Shantel Griffin says coming to Lakeland to open her second business was fate. After more than 10 years successfully...

04/28/2024

We ♥️ Real Weddings shot by local photographers and with local vendors helping celebrating love stories that makes Lakelanders smile!

Find out what kind of COVID journey Josh and Jane-Anne went on and how Bonnet Springs Park was an ideal local destination to invite their friends and family.

PHELAN WEDDING VENDORS INCLUDED:
📸 Carmela Blackwell Photography
Planner - J & S Weddings
Catering - TLC Catering by Terrie Lobb
🎥 David Harder Photography and Multimedia
Rentals - Under One Tent Events
DJ - DJ Malado, Steven Maldonado
💐 Brides N Blooms
Makeup - Alysha Desiree Artistry
Dress Simply Elegant Bridal
Baker - Angie Brown
Officiant - Henry Smith

Real Lakeland Weddings: Josh and Jane-Anne Phelan By RJ WaltersPhotography by Carmela Blackwell Josh and Jane-Anne phelan love the outdoors. So much so that during the pandemic the Polk County natives installed a platform bed in the back of their Subaru and hit the road for 72 days to visit national...

04/25/2024

There ain't no party like one with a donut wall, a meat carving station or fine china to match the aesthetic!

TLC Catering by Terrie Lobb has built her brand and reputation over the course of more than 20 years by providing personalized experiences and delicious food for a variety of budgets.

Find out how TLC could be the perfect starting point for planning your corporate lunch, social gathering or unforgettable wedding!

Eat, Drink, Be Married: The TLC Catering Experience By RJ WaltersDeveloped in partnership with TLC Catering If you ask Terrie Lobb what comes to mind when she thinks about weddings, she’ll likely laugh and then start replaying a series of real life movie clips that flood into her mind. Like the on...

04/19/2024

If you're making plans for Mother's Day weekend, don't forget to put Mayfaire-by-the-Lake by Polk Museum of Art on your calendar.

See what you can expect from the 52nd annual version of the showcase.

Mayfaire by-the-Lake: An Art Showcase for All on May 11-12 By Alexa EstevezPhotos Courtesy of Polk Museum of Art Mayfaire by-the-Lake is returning for the 52nd consecutive year, featuring artwork from local and nationally recognized artists and offering people the opportunity to immerse themselves i...

04/15/2024

As Lakeland sits in the afterglow of another rousing SUN 'n FUN expo, the programs and people who make our community a leading hub of aviation innovation are perpetually in motion.

Check out the career arcs of a couple of local high-flyers who prepared and trained at Aerospace Center for Excellence on their way to living out their dreams.

hat could be more fun than cheating gravity?” asks Eric Crump, revealing an inexhaustible enthusiasm for aviation. Crump is VP/COO of the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE)–located at the Lakeland Linder International Airport–whose campus boasts an amalgam of all things aerospace: the Centr...

04/09/2024

We love owners in Lakeland who get excited about helping fellow Lakelanders feel great about themselves!

Racheal and John Santarpia have certainly made that their mission at Clique Salon and Med Spa. Find out the ways they are helping people look younger and feel better!

Look Younger, Feel Better, Live Longer: Clique Salon & Med Spa   Photography by Jordan Randall A midst the relentless demands of the pandemic, Racheal Santarpia, a dedicated nurse practitioner, found herself longing for a change. Encouraged by her daughter Brandie, a cosmetologist, the duo embarked...

04/08/2024

You hear planes in the sky for SUN 'n FUN?

Well, how about Dylan Scott and Sara Evans on the ground on opening night. How about the artistry and awe of the lighting up the night. How about raising money for the next generation of aviators and explosive colorful fireworks.

SUN 'n FUN has it all. Read more and make your plans.

Something Fun for Everyone at SUN ‘n FUN By RJ WaltersPhotos provided by SUN ‘n FUN S UN ’n FUN was built by aviation enthusiasts for aviation enthusiasts, but also with the intent to strike a chord with the general public in such a way that just maybe others would become captivated by aeronau...

04/04/2024

An apartment should be more than a "livable box." Developers from New York have brought Lakeland a holistic multi-family home option that appeals to the senses and provides people the opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Welcome Canary Apartments is offering an alternative the company believes will resonate with people who need respite from the stress of life or simply want to build community in a new way.

Written by Jenna MacFarlanePhotos by Allee Cyrus, Heidi Michelle Photography, Dark White StudiosDesigned by Briana ChenotDeveloped in partnership with Welcome Developments