Photo by Alexa King Stone Released independently on September 13, 1999, Mary Gauthier’s “Drag Queens in Limousines” introduced the world to a singular songwriter whose character-driven narratives centered on outsiders, those not considered the “normal” members of society. Like many of her musical heroes, including John Prine, Lucinda Williams, and Tom Waits, Gauthier used thoughtful lyrics and an unvarnished voice to illuminate the humanity within her characters, reminding listeners of our shared connection. The album offered a powerful preview of what was still to come. THE BEGINNING After spending much of her early life immersed in chaos, a period later chronicled in her acclaimed 2021 book, “Saved By a Song: The Art and Healing Power of Songwriting,” the Louisiana native relocated to Boston in 1984 to escape the drugs and nightlife surrounding her. There, she opened one of the city’s first Cajun restaurants. In 1990, at age 27, she got sober. At 35, after years of performing covers at local open mics, she wrote her first song. When the material that would become “Drag Queens in Limousines” finally came together, Gauthier financed the recording and manufacturing with restaurant earnings, spending late nights after her shifts stuffing CDs to mail to radio stations. That perseverance paid off. Gauthier rose from open mics to the main stage of the Newport Folk Festival, and the album earned multiple honors, including Best Country Artist at the GLAMA Awards (Gay and Lesbian American Music Awards), Crossroads’ Silver Star Award, and Independent Artist of the Year. Looking back, Gauthier recalls, “At this point, I was thirty-nine, twelve years sober, and still running restaurants in Boston. The success of this record helped me decide to leave the restaurant business, move to Nashville, and start over. It was terrifying to imagine myself walking away from my successful businesses to pursue music full time (because, honestly, who in their right mind STARTS a career in music at age 40?). My hope was that I might be able to do it for real, that is, become a full time, professional songwriter. In my heart of hearts I knew I had to try. I had to dedicate my life to it in order to succeed.” “I got sober in 1990 at age twenty-seven. A few years later, I started writing songs. I fell in love with the challenge, mystery and power of songwriting. The satisfaction of watching my music connect, and the privilege of having other songwriters embrace me as a peer was a new feeling to me, and the only word that describes it perfectly is joy. Songwriting gave me purpose and helped me stay sober. I worked on my songs every day, played them at open mics at night, learned, and grew. A few years into the process, I hired producer Crit Harmon to help me. We soon released a demo named after my Louisianastyle restaurant, then quickly got to work on what would become my debut album, which became our Hail Mary project, a fullscale attempt to make a name for ourselves in the music world. When we reached the finish line, I decided to call the record “Drag Queens in Limousines.” I went to a local drag club in Boston, Jacques, to shoot the cover. I hired my first publicist and picked a release date of September 13, 1999.” Gauthier continued, “What was it that drew people to Drag Queens in Limousines? Was it the way in which it celebrated people whose lives are lived outside of anything resembling normal? Did it tap into the outsider in everyone? In retrospect, I believe these were the songs that helped me find my writer’s voice. My characters, like me, were on the edge, but they were also on the verge. People cracked, crumbled, and burned as they tried to deal with the everyday dramas of love vs. lovelessness, community vs. loneliness, and despair vs. faith. I was learning about sobriety, humility, and about how a brutal crack in the ego could become a lifesaving gift. Many of these songs remain on my set list today.” DRAG QUEENS IN LIMOUSINES “The title track, a coming-of-age countryflavored outsiders’ anthem, connected me to people all over the word. The idea for it came after a failed gig in NYC, a gig that ended before it began because nobody came. To try and cheer me up, my friends took me out to the Midtown Diner, outside Times Square. As we walked in, I noticed that the parking lot was filled with limos, shiny black cars that horseshoed around both sides of the building. We made our way in and got our menus. As I sat there brooding, a door swung open and two drag queens in full female makeup, high heels, sparkly dresses and big, big hair strutted in talking loudly and laughing in that loud drag-queen lookat-me-kind-of-way. They ordered coffees togo, then, poof, they were gone. All that was left when the door swung shut was the sweet smell of their perfume. I looked at my friends in amazement. They smiled and nodded, “We love it here. Isn’t it great, Drag Queens and Limousines!” BINGO! They had just handed me the title of a song that would become the name of this record; a record that would change my life.” Gauthier finished with this, “Turns out, there is an outsider in everyone, an observer who sometimes feels excluded, different. If everyone feels that way, then the truth of the matter is that this is where we are not different, it is where we are, of all things, the same. One human family, one giant mass of people looking for where we belong. Ain’t that something? Drag Queens in Limousines, indeed.” Watch Mary Gauthier perform live with special guest Jaimee Harris on January 30, 2026 at Gram Parsons Derry Down in Winter Haven. The doors open at 6 p.m., Jaimee Harris begins at 7 p.m., and Mary Gauthier takes the stage at 7:45 p.m. Purchase tickets at gpderrydown.com . MARY GAUTHIER WITH JAIMEE HARRIS January 30, 2026, 6 p.m. Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th St NW, Winter Haven gpderrydown.com

There is nothing more iconic to Florida than growing citrus in the home garden. But with challenges from greening, this has become increasingly difficult for homeowners. Luckily, there are still options available, and by following UF/IFAS guidelines from selection to maintenance, it is possible to harvest your own citrus. WHAT IS GREENING? If you are not familiar with citrus greening (huanglongbing (HLB)), it is a bacterial disease spread by a tiny insect called the Asian citrus psyllid. Affected trees decline in health and produce a reduced, lowquality harvest. Some citrus varieties show greater tolerance to greening, but homeowners should expect to provide a higher level of maintenance than was required before the disease became widespread. HOW CAN YOU SELECT CITRUS FOR THE HOME LANDSCAPE? Citrus thrives in full sun, well-drained soils, and areas with protection from strong winds. Avoid low spots and areas that may have drainage issues. Give trees room to grow as roots and canopies will expand as the tree grows. Start with good quality plants from a USDA certified nursery (the tree will be tagged so you will know) and select a variety that will work for you. • SWEET ORANGES Classic dessert and juice oranges like Hamlin and Valencia offer reliable performance and sweet fruit. Try OLL-4 (a new HLB-tolerant hybrid) if you like sweet oranges. • MANDARINS & HYBRIDS Easy-peel varieties such as tangerines and tangelos (Minneola, Temple) are sweet and attractive. Try Sugar Belle® (a new HLB-tolerant hybrid) if you like mandarins and an early harvest time. *Try Marathon mandarin (a new HLB-tolerant hybrid) if you like the easy-peel fruit. • ACID CITRUS Lemons (especially Meyer) and limes provide tart flavor for drinks and cooking, though many acid types are more cold-sensitive. • ORNAMENTAL & UNIQUE Kumquats and calamondin are prized for both ornamental charm and edible fruit. Finger lime cultivars (HLB-tolerant) are also a fun choice for unusual fruits. HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN A CITRUS TREE FOR BEST HARVEST AND LONG LIFE? When preparing to plant your citrus tree, select a planting site with good drainage, and avoid burying the graft union. After planting, water regularly. Once established, proper care includes: • Irrigation: Keep water consistent, especially during dry spells. • Fertilization: Follow a citrus-specific nutrition program to support steady growth and fruiting. • Weed control: Minimizing competition helps young trees gain strength. • Pest management: Monitor for psyllids, leaf miners, and scale insects; consult UF/IFAS guidance for appropriate responses Unlike grocery fruit that’s picked early for shipping, home citrus can stay on the tree until it reaches peak flavor. Oranges and mandarins are best when they’ve gained full color and sweetness, while lemons and limes can be picked as they reach usable size. Picking fruit right from your yard is a special treat and while it can be some work, growing citrus in central Florida is possible and productive. For more information on growing citrus in the home landscape, go to: crec.ifas.ufl.edu/home-citrus . You will find resources on everything from planting to pruning to harvest times. You may also contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at 863-519-1041 or visit us online at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ polk if you have questions on growing citrus. The Plant Clinic is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. If you are interested in purchasing a garden journal, contact the Plant Clinic. If you are not in Polk County, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic. To learn more about gardening and landscaping in central Florida, listen to the Your Central Florida Yard podcast. You can find the podcast wherever you listen or find out more on our Substack: substack.com/@yourcentralfloridayard . An Equal Opportunity Institution. Anne Yasalonis is the Residential Horticulture Extension Agent and Master Gardener Volunteer Program Coordinator for UF/IFAS Extension Polk County. Please contact her at anneanne@ufl.edu .

FREE SUNSET YOGA Jan. 7, 6 – 7 p.m. on the St. Pete Pier. Class will be grounding but fun, with lots of modifications offered to accommodate everybody. Catch some bay breezes as the sun sets over Family Park. This class is by The Body Electric Yoga Company. Donations will be accepted, and proceeds will benefit a different local group each month. Bring water & yoga mat. stpetepier.org THE COMEDY OF ERRORS Jan. 14 – Feb. 8 at the Straz Center. A stranger arrives in town only to find that everyone knows their name but thinks they’re someone else. In this fairy tale of a farce, believed to be one of the Shakespeare’s earliest, is an evening of laughs set against the backdrop of 1960s beat-era San Francisco. strazcenter.org AFTERNOON TEA First Sunday of each month from 3 – 5 p.m. at the Oxford Exchange. Includes an assortment of sweet & savory bites, scones with sweet cream & house preserves, and your choice of tea. Children’s Tea service available. Reserve in advance. oxfordexchange.com SUNSHINE CITY FILM FESTIVAL Jan. 14 – 19 at various locations in St. Pete. Celebrate the amazing works of up-and-coming filmmakers from all over the Bay Area and beyond. Guests can participate in workshops, mixers, and panel discussions. sunshinecityfilmfestival.com THE HIGH & DRY FESTIVAL Jan. 3, 1 – 5 p.m. at The Coliseum in St. Pete. The state’s largest 21+ functional beverage tasting event. Sip, discover, and connect with over 60+ brands showcasing the future of beverages, from THC-infused drinks to adaptogens, nootropics, and alcohol-free creations. Enjoy unlimited tastings and hands-on workstations. highanddryfest.com MUTTS GONE NUTS! Jan. 11, noon at Ruth Eckerd Hall. AGT sensation Alexandra Cote, leads an all-star cast that includes a Guinness World Record holder, a world champion frisbee dog, and Hilby the Skinny German Juggle Boy! These amazing dogs will flip, skip, dance, and prance their way right into your heart! rutheckerdhall.com PARENT’S TIME OFF Jan. 9, 5:30 – 10 p.m. at the Florida Aquarium. Give yourself a well-earned break while your kids enjoy aquatic fun, pizza, handson activities, and unforgettable adventures. You can recharge your way while they explore, learn, and play in a safe, exciting space designed just for them. Ages 5 –12; registration required. flaquarium.org CHILDREN’S GASPARILLA Jan. 24. Kids are invited to participate in the Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety Rodeo, the Preschooler’s Stroll, the Gasparilla Air Invasion, a Children’s Parade, and the “Piratechnic” fireworks finale all in one day! Find the schedule & details at gasparillapiratefest.com . THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Jan. 11, 3 p.m. at the Yuengling Center. Taking inspiration from the fun-loving & awe-inspiring players of the past, today’s Harlem Globetrotters stars are ready to wow you on the court! Be there as the players dazzle, dunk, and hype the stands as they take on the Washington Generals. harlemglobetrotters.com FOREVER MOTOWN Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m. at the Mahaffey Theater. This non-stop, high-energy trip down memory lane is performed by a cast of veteran entertainers and their band, including former members of The Jones, Main Ingredient, & The Marvelettes peppered with Broadway savvy performers singing your favorites. themahaffey.com

ORLANDO VALKYRIES Jan. 9, 7 p.m. at Addition Arena. The Orlando Valkyries are a Major League Volleyball (MLV) team and the reigning league champions. Known for their fierce play, standout talent, and electric fan atmosphere, the Valkyries continue to raise the bar for professional women’s volleyball. They will play the Grand Rapids Rise. provolleyball.com/ teams/orlando-valkyries SCIENCE ON TAP Jan. 24, 1 – 4 p.m. at Loch Haven Park. This fundraiser for the Orlando Science Center features over 30 local breweries from around Central Florida that will be sampling some of their best brews. This event is familyfriendly. VIP tickets with an early entry are available for an additional price. Purchase tickets in advance at osc.org . FRINGE WINTER MINI-FEST Jan. 7–11 at various theatres. This is a fun-sized dose of all things Fringe. This curated version of the May festival will feature works from past festivals, new works from well-received Fringe artists, and brand-new creatives scouted from the national and international Fringe circuit. orlandofringe.org PARK AVE 5K Jan. 17, 7:30 a.m. at Central Park in Winter Park. Walk or run through beautiful Winter Park, plus a free Children’s Fun Run. After the 5K, treat yourself to samples of delicious food from some of the best local food vendors. Register in advance. trackshack.com/event/17 & JULIET Jan. 6 –11 at the Dr. Phillips Center. This hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. Go on a journey as Juliet ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love, her way. Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek.” drphillipscenter.org EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF ARTS Jan. 16 – Feb. 23 at EPCOT. Celebrate visual, performing, and culinary arts, featuring artist displays, the Disney on Broadway Concert Series, interactive experiences like paint-by-numbers, and unique, artfully presented food from “Food Studios.” disneyworld.disney.go.com MONSTER JAM Jan. 10, 7 p.m. at Camping World Stadium. See all of your favorites like Grave Digger, Sparkle Smash, and more. Early Access Passes, VIP Pit Party, and Post-Event Meet & Greets available for purchase. Purchase tickets in advance at campingworldstadium.com . ORLANDO SOLAR BEARS Jan. 25, 3 p.m. against the Atlanta Gladiators at the Kia Center. Families can enjoy Sunday Funday and receive a ticket, a stylish Solar Bears bucket hat, a voucher for a hot dog, popcorn, and a drink for one price. orlandosolarbearshockey.com MLK CANDLELIGHT VIGIL & MARCH Jan. 11, 3:30 p.m. at Orlando City Hall. Following the Candlelight Vigil is the Interfaith/Multicultural Celebration presented by the Interfaith Council of Central Florida, with guest speaker State Senator LaVon Bracy Davis. The celebration’s theme is “Let Us Be Dissatisfied” from MLK’s speech, “Where Do We Go from Here.” orlando.gov MOUNT DORA ARTS FESTIVAL Jan. 31 & Feb.1 in Downtown Mount Dora. Experience 300 fine artists showcasing their talent in this juried event. Plus, there will be entertainment! The event runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday and is FREE to attend. mountdoraart.com

MLK WEEK: WREATH LAYING Jan. 15, 10 a.m. at Martin Luther King Jr Park in Winter Haven. Honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the City of Winter Haven’s annual Wreath Laying Ceremony. This solemn and inspiring gathering brings together city leaders, community members, churches, and local organizations to pay tribute to Dr. King’s vision of peace, justice, and equality for all. mywinterhaven.com MARY GAUTHIER Jan. 30, 6 p.m. at Gram Parsons Derry Down with special guest Jaimee Harris. It’s been just over 25 years since Mary Gauthier, now revered songwriter, released her groundbreaking debut album, “Drag Queens in Limousines.” This is an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Celebrate twenty-five years of these unique, courageous songs. gpderrydown.com BONSAI FOR BEGINNERS Jan. 10, 10 a.m. at Bok Tower Gardens. You’ll learn the basics of bonsai cultivation from renowned Florida bonsai artists. Shape, prune, and style your own miniature tree with all-inclusive materials provided. You will leave with a beautiful bonsai tree and the skills to care for it. Reserve your spot today at boktowergardens.org WINTERFEST Jan. 24, 1 p.m. - close at Bowen Yard. Families can enjoy the holiday lights one last time at Bowen Yard along with winter games, food deals from five different restaurants, and fun for the entire family! The Daniel Burns Band will be playing live. Get more info on Facebook @bowenyardwh NEW WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Every Saturday from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at a NEW location! Visit them along Magnolia Ave in Downtown Winter Haven between 2nd St SW & 3rd St SW featuring a variety of growers, food trucks, artisan food vendors including handmade pasta and baked goods, meat, seafood, plants, local makers, and more. FB @winterhavenfarmersmarket TASTE OF WINTER HAVEN Jan. 22, 6 p.m. at Venue 650. Join the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce for a delicious evening celebrating the local food scene, mingling with friends, and supporting the community’s best. Don’t miss the ultimate food and drink showcase of Winter Haven! You must be 21 or older to attend. centralfloridatix.com THE WIZARD OF OZ Jan. 15 – Feb. 15 at Theatre Winter Haven. Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz and continues to thrill audiences worldwide. theatrewinterhaven.com FLORIDA’S CITRUS FESTIVAL Jan. 31, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. in Downtown Winter Haven’s Central Park. Live music and entertainment, citrus food & drink vendors, “reverse” mimosa bar, citrus history and agricultural exhibits, the Blue Ribbon Art Show, local vendors with citrus-themed offerings, and more. More details at floridascitrusfestival.com TONY & TINA’S WEDDING Jan. 16 & 17 at The Ritz. OffBroadway comedy staged as a festive celebration in which the audience doesn’t just watch the show, but participates directly in the fun as members of the family or friends of the bride and groom. Purchase tickets in advance at theatrewinterhaven.com . LATIN NIGHT Jan. 31, 8:30 p.m. at Maritime in Bowen Yard. Enjoy a free dance class thanks to Uno Dos Tres Studio at 8:30 p.m. The after party begins at 10 p.m. with specialty drinks, snack attacks, and a live Latin DJ so you can dance the night away with everything you learned earlier in the night! (after party ticket is $10) More info on IG @maritime_wh.

CAMP BSP Jan. 16- 17. This is Bonnet Springs Park’s first overnight camping program! This program is intended for families with school-age children. Activities include knot-tying and casting, community bonfire, fire safety, guided night insect viewing, and early bird fishing. This program requires advanced registration. bonnetspringspark.com FLORIDA’S CITRUS FESTIVAL Jan. 31, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. in Downtown Winter Haven’s Central Park. Live music and entertainment, citrus food & drink vendors, “reverse” mimosa bar, citrus history and agricultural exhibits, the Blue Ribbon Art Show, local vendors with citrus-themed offerings, and more. More details at destroyermediaandmarketing.com CAMELLIA SHOW & PLANT SALE Jan.10, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland. Hosted by the Lakeland Camellia Society, see stunning camellias up close, chat with fellow plant lovers, and buy a beautiful camellia or two. Come early for the best selection. FB @LakelandCamelliaSocietyFL STARRY-STARRY NIGHT Jan. 24, 5 p.m. at Bok Tower Gardens. Experience the wonders of the night sky with telescopes guided by local astronomers, enjoy space-themed presentations from leading experts, meet nocturnal animals, and connect with NASA ambassadors. Come early to view the sun through solar scopes in the Rondel from 12 p.m. to sunset. boktowergardens.org LIVE & LOUD Jan. 2, 6 p.m. at The Ritz in Winter Haven. More than just a showcase, it’s a safe, inclusive space where creatives from the local scene break boundaries, own the stage, and make some serious noise. January lineup: Ponch Bueller (New Orleans, Americana/folk punk), Ramblin’ Ricky Tate (Alabama, folk punk), 2 Reasons (Lakeland, punk), These Times (Lakeland, pop punk). FB @destroyermediaandmarketing MARY GAUTHIER Jan. 20, 6 p.m. at Gram Parsons Derry Down with special guest Jaimee Harris. It’s been just over 25 years since Mary Gauthier, now revered songwriter, released her groundbreaking debut album, “Drag Queens in Limousines.” This is an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Celebrate 25 years of these unique, courageous songs. gpderrydown.com TONY & TINA’S WEDDING Jan. 16 & 17 at The Ritz in Winter Haven. Off-Broadway comedy staged as a festive celebration in which the audience doesn’t just watch the show, but participates directly in the fun as members of the family or friends of the bride and groom. Purchase tickets in advance at theatrewinterhaven.com . VISTEBALL Jan. 31, 6 p.m. at SUN ‘n FUN. VISTEBall is a unique, indoor, golfthemed event, benefiting VISTE clients and is fun for golfers and non-golfers alike. Ticket includes food and adult beverages, putting challenges, a golf simulator, and plenty of games & prizes. Along with all of the fun, there is a week-long online auction. viste.org PUFFS Jan. 16 – 25 at the Lakeland Community Theatre. This clever and inventive play “never goes more than a minute without a laugh” (Nerdist) giving you a new look at a familiar school from the perspective of three potential heroes just trying to make it through a magic school that proves to be very dangerous for children. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com LATIN NIGHT Jan. 31, 8:30 p.m. at Maritime in Bowen Yard. Enjoy a free dance class thanks to Uno Dos Tres Studio at 8:30 p.m. The after party begins at 10 pm with specialty drinks, snack attacks, and a live Latin DJ so you can dance the night away with everything you learned earlier in the night! (after party ticket is $10) More info on IG @maritime_wh.

GILEAD By Marilynne Robinson January doesn’t ask much of us. And “Gilead” is a good companion for the slower days at the start of the year, thoughtful, observant, and unhurried. Told as a letter from an aging minister to his young son, this novel moves at a gentle pace. The book lingers on grace, forgiveness, and finding holiness in ordinary days. PILGRIM AT TINKER CREEK By Annie Dillard Dillard won a Pulitzer Prize for this classic. It is her observations of a year of changing seasons. It is the type of writing that rewards careful, unhurried reading. Dillard’s close attention to the natural world - both its beauty and its brutality - opens into larger reflections on mortality, change, and the forces that shape life. THE SNOW CHILD By Eowyn Ivey Set in the Alaskan wilderness, this novel blends realism with elements of folklore. There is magic in Ivey’s pages - but this is a winter book, dealing with sadness, grief, and alienation. As we wind down in the second half of winter, this is a quiet choice - especially for those who enjoy atmosphere over action. THE COMFORT OF CROWS By Margaret Renkl This is a book of seasonal essays rooted in close observation of the natural world just outside the author’s door. Readers are invited to pause and look closely at the world finding meaning, connection, and a sense of belonging within its larger, living rhythms. This book restores our spirits and brings comfort to the short days of winter. UPSTREAM By Mary Oliver “Upstream” is a collection of essays by one of my favorite poets, Mary Oliver. This is her reflecting on attention, writing, and the natural world. After the hustle and bustle of the past few months, January is the perfect reset - a time to return to the discipline and solitude of creative work, urging loyalty to the quieter, enduring self over the noise of the moment. STILL LIFE By Sarah Winman A warm, patient novel about friendship, art, and the long arc of a life. Descriptive passages linger on small moments and everyday beauty, creating a reading experience that feels immersive, unhurried, and quietly companionable. This book reminds us that connections are the most important thing in life, so when bad things happen, there is still hope and heart. WINTERING By Katherine May I have recently re-read this book; it is a reflective look at rest, retreat, and the seasons in our lives when slowing down is necessary. Key is the idea and reassurance that pulling inward can be restorative, not something to apologize for - a good reminder as we start the fresh year. FOSTER By Claire Keegan A brief, beautifully restrained story about a child sent to stay with distant relatives on a rural Irish farm. Through spare prose and careful observation, the writing conveys deep feeling, building toward a quietly powerful ending about belonging. This short story understands the power of what is unsaid - that stillness can carry emotional weight.

A GUARDIAN AND A THIEF By Megha Majumdar One family secures climate-refugee visas to escape the devastation of a drought-ridden Kolkata. When their documents are stolen, the stories of the family and the thief heartrendingly unfold. This urgent story asks the impossible question: How much collateral damage is acceptable to protect someone you love? THE LONELINESS OF SONIA AND SUNNY By Kiran Desai A spellbinding story of two young people whose fates intersect and diverge across continents and years. An epic story of love and family, India and America, tradition and modernity, by the Booker Prize– winning author of “The Inheritance of Loss.” THE DREAM HOTEL By Laila Lalami A museum archivist is abducted by federal agents and taken to a detention center for observation after an algorithm predicts she will murder her husband in the near future. During her month long stay in the facility, her dreams are monitored for evidence of homicidal intent. It feels like Steven Spielberg’s “Minority Report,” written in Lalami’s silky prose. THE WAYFINDER By Adam Johnson An epic, sweeping novel set in the Polynesian islands of the South Pacific during the height of the Tu’i Tonga Empire. At its heart is Korero, a young girl chosen to save her people from the brink of starvation. Her quest takes her from her remote island home on a daring seafaring journey across a vast ocean empire built on power, consumption, and bloodshed. FLESH By David Szalay A collection of intimate moments over the course of decades. A man at odds with himself; estranged from and by the circumstances and demands of a life not entirely under his control and the roles that he is asked to play. The tension between Istvan and all that alienates him hurtles forward until sudden tragedy again throws life as he knows it in jeopardy. ANGEL DOWN By Daniel Kraus During World War I, an American soldier embarks on a deadly expedition through No Man’s Land, where he discovers a wounded angel, both beautiful and terrifying, who may possess otherworldly powers that could end the war. It’s an absolutely fascinating encounter with the unknown that feels like an instant classic. THE BUFFALO HUNTER HUNTER By Stephen Graham Jones Horror master Stephen Graham Jones tackles the vampire mythos from a unique point of view: the lost 1912 diary of a Montana priest that records the life of a Blackfoot man named Good Stab. It’s a creepy thriller that’s destined for a prestige TV adaptation. HEARTWOOD By Amity Gaige In the heart of the Maine woods, an experienced Appalachian Trail hiker goes missing. She is forty-two-yearold Valerie Gillis, who has vanished 200 miles from her final destination. Alone in the wilderness, Valerie pours her thoughts into fractured, poetic letters to her mother as she battles the elements and struggles to keep hoping.

I have endeavoured, in this Ghostly little book, to raise the Ghost of an Idea, which shall not put my readers out of humour with themselves, with each other, with the season, or with me. May it haunt their houses pleasantly, and no one wish to lay it! Their faithful friend and Servant, C.D. December 1843. To the Victorians, the forces of cruelty felt as insurmountable as they do today—living within and alongside institutions that sustained the few and blamed the many who depended on them. London’s workhouses and debtors’ prisons were not aberrations; they were policy made visible. A thirty-one-year-old Charles Dickens knew that argument rarely moves people, but recognition does. In 1843, Dickens needed both money after the flop of “Martin Chuzzlewit” and an outlet for his outrage at a parliamentary report on child labour in England. It revealed children barely out of infancy working in mines, seven-year-olds already veterans underground, eight-year-olds smoking to endure the conditions, and boys sent below “as soon as they can stand on their legs.” Dickens’ own childhood in a shoe-blacking factory after his father’s imprisonment gave the issue first-hand weight. He considered a protest pamphlet, “An Appeal to the People of England on behalf of the Poor Man’s Child,” but knew it wouldn’t deliver the “sledgehammer blow” he wanted. He resolved instead to create something with “twenty thousand times the force.” And he did. “A Christmas Carol” has been adapted more than 150 times: silent films shot in borrowed warehouses, animated experiments, art-house interpretations, Cold War morality plays, prestigious BBC miniseries, and versions meant for schoolrooms and afternoon specials. In the late 20th century, another creator driven by social responsibility—and a matching sense of humor—emerged: Jim Henson. Long before the Muppets entered Dickens’ world, he built a universe shaped by empathy, equity, and the belief that kindness could change culture. His characters challenged prejudice, taught children to question injustice on Sesame Street, and proved that humor and moral seriousness could coexist. After his passing, the company carried that mission forward. “The Muppet Christmas Carol” (1992) became the meeting point of two storytellers a century and a half apart. Dickens delivering his “sledgehammer blow” to Victorian cruelty, and Henson’s legacy guiding the Muppets to continue that message with warmth, wit, and the conviction that compassion can still change us. In 1992, “The Muppet Christmas Carol”—my favorite film—was released. I’d argue that we are, to some degree, shaped by the movies within our reach during early childhood. I shudder to think who I’d be had my young eyes not met the felt faces of the glorious Muppets every holiday season. It was the first Muppet feature made after Jim Henson’s passing, and the company approached it as both an adaptation and an elegy. Brian Henson’s direction carries the unmistakable softness of someone preserving a legacy in real time. For fans, the shooting star has become one of the most meaningful visual signatures in the Muppet tradition. It was first used in “The Muppet Movie” to honor Jim Henson, appears again here above Kermit, and continues to surface in later productions. A living archive of Henson-era puppetry, the effects are Muppet worthy. The Ghost of Christmas Past was filmed underwater to achieve her floating, haloed shimmer, an effect rarely attempted before or since. My thought is because the screen can only hold one being so utterly terrifying. The Ghost of Christmas Present is built on the tradition of British pantomime giants. The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, towering and silent, uses in-camera scale tricks that predate digital compositing. Paul Williams returned to the Muppet world after composing “The Rainbow Connection,” and “The Muppet Christmas Carol” became one of the first mainstream modern family musicals to borrow structure from Victorian song forms. Gonzo, cast as Charles Dickens, marks the first time the author steps inside his own narrative. Jerry Juhl wanted Dickens’ prose to survive intact. And so it does, spoken aloud with such earnestness that generations of children know Dickens by way of Gonzo the Great. In 2015, Brian Henson told The Guardian that when he approached Michael Caine for the role, the actor responded: “I’m going to play this movie like I’m working with the Royal Shakespeare Company. I will never wink, I will never do anything Muppety. I am going to play Scrooge as if it is an utterly dramatic role and there are no puppets around me.” Scrooge is defined by his lack of connection and feeling, but for the story to work, we must still connect to his plight, even as we condemn his cruelty. “The Muppet Christmas Carol” stands in a lineage of adaptations, but it also stands apart, a film that believes, more than any other version, that empathy is an art form. Reaching children who cannot yet read Dickens, viewers uninterested in the black-and-white masterpieces of yesteryear, and in the tradition of the best stories ever told, those who take in entertainment but depart with something far greater. Every year we return—page, screen, stage, streaming— to “A Christmas Carol.” A story that reminds us the future can still be edited. Within our small worlds, our choices become the sparks of better mornings, or those lengthening the darkest nights of our neighbors. Across every one of the more than one hundred and fifty adaptations, the ghosts offer up the same reminder: Do not look away. We can still make the Muppets proud.

Carol Burnett recently celebrated her 92nd birthday. She is currently among the stars of “Palm Royale” on Apple TV. She spent seven decades sharing her acting and comedic talents. Winter Haven played a role with Burnett in the early days of her career. It was January 1961 and Robert “Bobby” Hiers just returned to Winter Haven from working on an oil pipeline in the western U. S.. The twenty-nine-year-old Hiers moved here from Georgia with his family in 1938 and graduated from Winter Haven High School in 1950. Following graduation, like many other area youth, he went on to work and ski at Cypress Gardens. He even served as a stunt double (along with another Garden’s skier) for Van Johnson and Esther Williams in one scene from “Easy to Love” (1934). His height and rugged good looks had made him a favorite for photo shoots. His salary for a six-day week was a robust $37.46. When he returned in 1961, he approached Robert “Bob” Eastman, then executive director of the Florida Citrus Exposition, inquiring about work. Eastman suggested he work as a back stagehand for the Garry Moore Show to be produced at Nora Mayo Hall – so he did. Sitting atop Hiers shoulders, Carol Burnett. One evening Eastman told him he should attend a Moore Show cast party to be held at LaMond’s Restaurant on Cypress Gardens Road (now Boulevard). He did so reluctantly and soon found the group socializing, dancing, and having a great time. As the evening progressed, he noticed one young woman standing off alone, so he asked her to dance. Little did he know that he and Carol Burnett would quickly become good friends. In fact, they would become such good friends that when the show’s production ended, Burnett used her two-week vacation to stay and enjoy Winter Haven – and Bobby’s company. He offered to teach Burnett to ski and the photo presented below is the result. Bobby Hiers professed he really didn’t realize Burnett’s star was on the rise. She returned in late summer that year and spent another four weeks in Winter Haven with Hiers as her escort. One local paper would even publish a photo listing Hiers as Burnett’s “boyfriend.” Burnett’s photo for Nick Christy’s Celebrity Photo Wall At the suggestion of Cypress Garden’s founder Dick Pope, Hiers called the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa to make a reservation for he and Carol. Upon arrival, the entire Gonzmart family was on hand to make them feel welcome. Seated off to the side of the dining room, he and Carol enjoyed the evening in relative quiet. Upon asking for the check, the maître d’ informed Hiers that they would not be charging for the dinner as it was an honor to have them dine at the Columbia. On the way home, Bobby turned to Carol and said, “If I’d known dinner was going to be free, I’d have ordered a margarita!” Hiers relates that their dates were the result of an honest, straight forward friendship and simply enjoying each other’s company. By year’s end, Burnett and her career were off to new heights, and Hiers moved on. Bobby Hiers with Burnett photo. Circa 2015 In 1965 Bobby Hiers met his future wife Beth as they both worked at the New York World’s Fair. He would spend his career modeling for such companies as Piper Aircraft, Hilton Hotels, Maas Brothers, Bell Telephone, Sears, Ryobi, Sea World, Equitable Insurance, Busch Gardens, Crisco, Ford, Johnson Outboard Motors and many, many more. He also made appearances in movies such as “Barracuda”, “Goldfinger”, “Parenthood”, “Edward Sissorhands”, “China Beach”, “Splash II”, and of course, “Easy to Love.” He and his wife lived in Winter Haven where they raised two sons, Chris and Dana. Not bad for the man that taught Carol Burnett to waterski. This installment is based a personal interview with Bob Hiers conducted July 10, 2015. Mr. Hiers passed away on October 11, 2017 Garry Moore Show Sidebar: When Winter Haven “Had a Secret” ... In 1957, “I’ve Got a Secret” (later evolving into “The Garry Moore Show”) was enticed to Winter Haven and broadcast live from the Lake Silver Amphitheater. The event was a promotional alliance with “The Florida Citrus Exposition” as the now-defunct citrus festival was known at the time. The quasi-game show was among the most popular television shows of the late 50s and early 60s. Moore’s trademark flat top hair-cut and bow tie had made him the popular host of the show. Panel members included Bess Myerson, Betsy Palmer, Henry Morgan, and Marion Lorne. Cypress Gardens legend Dick Pope with “I’ve Got a Secret” host Garry Moore. Circa 1957 The show was broadcast live at 10:00 a.m. each day throughout the Citrus Festival. Photo documentation of the events record zany sketches and the prominent involvement of many local leaders including Cypress Gardens founder, Dick Pope, and Exposition Manager, Robert “Bob” Eastman. More than 30 million people across America watched the live broadcast. The Garry Moore Show returned in 1961 and brought their “new discovery,” a comedian named Carol Burnett. Local restaurant legend, the late Nick Christy named Burnett the most interesting celebrity he had met through the years. “The Garry Moore Show” was broadcast from the mid 50s until 1967. Just imagine ... live television from the Lake Silver Amphitheater.

This recipe uses a very easy-to-grow (and fun to look at!) squash. Luffa (Luffa sp.) is a squash that is used as a vegetable or as a sponge. It is easy to grow and is vining in habit. Grow luffa where the long fruits can hang, and harvest depending on their use. If using as an edible vegetable, harvest when green and about six inches long. If using as a sponge, allow to mature and harvest when the peel is brown and pulling away from the interior. Peel away the skin/husk and remove seeds to use as a sponge. For more information on growing and using luffa: gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/vegetables/luffa Here is a recipe from Master Gardener Volunteer Jackie Hollister: 3 cups unbleached or whole wheat flour 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 3 eggs 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 cups, unprepared young luffa, grated 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped + 1 teaspoon flour (optional) 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease 2 loaf pans. 2. Sift flour, cinnamon, soda, salt and baking powder together. 3. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs well, then gradually add sugar and oil. Mix well. 4. Add vanilla and dry ingredients, blend well. 5. Stir in Luffa. 6. Combine walnuts & flour and stir in, if using. Pour batter into 2 greased pans. Bake 1 hour. 7. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans. Wait 24 hours or refrigerate overnight before cutting.

Central Florida’s mild winters create the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy the weather during the holiday season; so in this month’s article, we’ll be discussing six beautiful natural areas that you might consider visiting! These locations offer fun for the whole family, with many of them providing opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, or even camping. You’ll also have the chance to spot some of Central Florida’s unique wildlife, including several rare or endangered species. Whether you’re a Polk County resident or someone just visiting, a trip to one of these locations might be the bow on top of your holiday season. CIRCLE B BAR RESERVE 4399 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland One of Polk County’s most famous outdoor destinations, Circle B Bar Reserve offers prime birdwatching, especially for migratory species in winter. Keep an eye out for wading birds like roseate spoonbills and wood storks, or for bald eagles soaring overhead. You’re also almost guaranteed to see alligators, which will be out soaking up the sun on cold days. The variety of walking trails and kids’ activities at the Polk Nature Discovery Center also make this location great for families! CROOKED LAKE PRAIRIE 985 Ohlinger Rd., Babson Park This quiet preserve offers a rare glimpse of Florida’s ancient scrub ecosystem. These scrub habitats were once islands, and they now exist as elevated, sandy areas that are home for many rare and threatened Florida species. At Crooked Lake Prairie, you might be able to spot a Florida scrub jay, a rare bird found only in the Sunshine State, along with gopher tortoises and seasonal scrub wildflowers. Bring binoculars, a hat, and keen eyes – Crooked Lake Prairie rewards those who slow down and look closely. GATOR CREEK RESERVE 9120 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland Situated on the edge of the Green Swamp, Gator Creek Reserve offers wide multiuse trails winding through a variety of ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, cypress domes, and oak hammocks. In winter, cooler weather makes longer rides or hikes especially pleasant! Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer or wild turkeys and bring binoculars to look out for warblers and migratory birds! MARSHALL HAMPTON RESERVE 3115 Thornhill Rd, Winter Haven With its scenic oak hammocks and views of Lake Hancock, Marshall Hampton Reserve is perfect for a peaceful winter stroll. If you want to get out in the sun to shake the chill, the open Osprey Overlook Loop Trail is your best bet, while the Acorn Hammock Loop Trail provides an arching oak canopy with a beautiful saw palmetto understory. With a special use permit, equestrians may even bring their horses to ride through the scenery. Whether you’re looking to get some steps or miles in, or to exercise your horse, Marshall Hampton Reserve truly has it all. SUMICA 14020 Hwy. 60 E., Lake Wales SUMICA is the largest of Polk County’s Environmental Lands and provides an excellent opportunity to feel as though you’re really in the backcountry. Habitats range from marshes to oak hammocks to pine flatwoods, some of which bear the remnants of the once-thriving historical logging community. “SUMICA” stands for Societe Universelle Mining Industrie, Commerce et Agriculture, a French logging company that once used the land, though the town of SUMICA practically vanished in the early 1900s once all of the trees had been harvested. The property has since returned to its natural Florida glory, and it is excellent for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. When winding through the trails, you might catch sight of the fluffy Sherman’s fox squirrel or hear the drumming of a red-cockaded woodpecker, a federally endangered species. LAKE KISSIMMEE STATE PARK 14248 Camp Mack Rd, Lake Wales This expansive park offers nearly everything: camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even living history demonstrations of old Florida at the Cow Camp. You can even rent a canoe or kayak during the months of November through April to paddle the Buster Island Paddling Trail, where you’ll be immersed in creekside flora and fauna. Among the park’s 12 distinct natural communities, wildlife is abundant – look for birds such as sandhill cranes, crested caracaras, and wild turkeys, or large mammals such as white-tail deer or the occasional bobcat. Kid- and pet-friendly, it’s a great place for a full-day or overnight adventure. WHY GET OUTDOORS? Visiting these natural areas benefits more than just your weekend plans – it also helps support conservation efforts, raises awareness for rare species, and boosts the local economy through ecotourism. Any money put towards entry fees, camping or horseback riding permits, or even souvenirs from the gift shop feed back into supporting the conservation activities of these parks – so by visiting them and taking advantage of their services, you are actively giving back to Florida’s natural areas! MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT Contribute to Citizen Science – If you have your phone out on the trail, you can use apps like iNaturalist to document wildlife sightings. This contributes to valuable research about the presence and abundance of our wildlife species! Be Sun & Bug Smart – Even in winter, Florida’s sun is strong, and mosquitoes can still be active. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water, so you don’t have to leave the trail earlier than intended! Leave No Trace – It is our responsibility as outdoor recreationists to minimize the negative impacts we have on these lands. You can help protect habitats by packing out trash and staying on marked trails. Check out www.lnt.org for more guidelines on how to be a responsible outdoor enthusiast! Check Park Rules – Some locations limit pets, bikes, or horses to protect sensitive areas, so it’s best to know before you go! This holiday season, give yourself the gift of fresh air and new experiences. And, after visiting one of our beautiful natural areas, tell a friend about the experience you had to encourage them to join you next time. Whether you’re seeking rare birds, exploring Florida’s scrub habitats, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, Central Florida’s natural areas offer something for everyone. Bundle up (lightly – even in the winter, it’s still Florida!), grab your camera or binoculars, and get outdoors to make some wild memories. To learn about more locations to enjoy Polk County’s Environmental Lands, visit www. polknature.com . For more insights into the conservation lands and places to experience wild Florida in Polk County, readers are encouraged to connect with the UF/IFAS Extension Office in Bartow or email Shannon at scarnevale@ufl.edu .