LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS   Our Single-A Affiliate Minor League Baseball team! They play the Palm Beach Cardinals May 2 – 4, the Fort Myers Mussels May 20 – 25, and the Tampa Tarpons May 27 – 29. Home games are played at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland. milb.com/lakeland     BRIMER & BRIXA   May 2, 7 p.m. at Gram Parsons Derry Down. Local guitarists David Brimer and Marcus Brixa have been writing, recording, and performing together for 3 years. They will be releasing their second studio album, “Sandcastle Sazerac” at an album release concert. Doors open at 6 p.m. gpderrydown.com     LEGO FESTIVAL   Saturdays & Sundays from May 3 – June 8 at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Dive into five never-before-seen play zones for epic brick-building, brand-new shows, massive builds, exclusive LEGO Minifigures, music, dancing, and unique LEGO experiences you won’t find anywhere else. legoland.com/florida     BATTLE OF THE BANDS WINNERS   May 3, 6 p.m. at Bowen Yard. Watch the 2025 Battle of the Bands: High School Edition winners play! You'll hear the winners of the Best Original Act, Best Cover Band, and Best in Show categories. facebook.com/bowenyardwh     BARK IN THE PARK   May 9, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Central Park in Winter Haven. Explore a variety of dog vendors offering everything from tasty treats to stylish accessories. Always exciting MSWH's Annual Wiener Dog Race, where these pint-sized pups dash to the finish line in a race for the title of "Fastest Wiener in Town." Mainstreeetwh.com     MAYFAIRE BY-THE-LAKE   May 10 & 11, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. One of Florida’s premier outdoor art festivals. It is held on Mother’s Day weekend on the shores of beautiful Lake Morton. Mayfaire is one of the largest and oldest outdoor art festivals in Central Florida, with over 150 artist booths. Mayfairebythelake.org     MOTHER’S DAY AT BTG   May 11, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. at Bok Tower Gardens. Free admission to all moms! Celebrate Mom with a beautiful day in the Gardens. The Shop at Bok has gifts to make her day extra special. You can also treat Mom to lunch or ice cream at The Blue Palmetto Cafe. boktowergardens.org     THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE   May 16 – 25 at Theatre Winter Haven. When the four Pevensie children are sent to the country to live with an eccentric professor to escape the bombings in England, little do they know what incredible adventures await. Theatrewinterhaven.com     “SHE KNOWS WHERE SHE’S GOING”   May 22, noon at Polk State College in Winter Haven. This a wards luncheon will honor multiple local women who embody Girls Inc.'s mission of empowering others and fostering self-esteem in others. More info on Facebook: Girls Inc of Winter Haven.     BEER, BUBBLES, AND BITES   May 22, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. in Downtown Winter Haven. This Main Street Winter Haven event lets you explore over 25 businesses that will be serving a sample of craft beer or sparkling wine/champagne, along with a small bite pairing. centralfloridatix.com

ARTCURIOUS By: Jennifer Dasal We’re all familiar with the works of Claude Monet, thanks in no small part to the ubiquitous reproductions of his water lilies on umbrellas, handbags, and scarves. But did you also know that Monet and his cohort were trailblazing rebels whose works were originally deemed unbelievably ugly and vulgar? “ArtCurious” is a color- ful look at art history, revealing some of the strangest, funniest, and most fascinating stories behind the world’s great artists and masterpieces. YOUR BRAIN ON ART By: Susan Magsamen & Ivy Ross What is art? Many of us think of the arts as entertain- ment—a luxury of some kind. In “Your Brain on Art,” we see how activities from painting and dancing to expres- sive writing, architecture, and more are essential to our lives. This book is a portal into this new understanding of how the arts and aesthetics can help us transform traditional medicine, build healthier communities, and mend an aching planet. SNIPPETS By: Diane Alber In “Snippets,” discover a very powerful message while learning shapes at the same time. Snippet finds himself in a world full of perfect shapes and soon realizes his odd shape doesn’t fit in. Despite being put down by his abnormally long top, Snippet’s confidence in his unique shape gives him the ability to show how everyone is stronger together than when they are apart. RADIANT CHILD By: Javaka Steptoe Jean-Michel Basquiat and his unique, collage-style paintings rocketed to fame in the 1980s. But before that, he was a little boy who saw art everywhere and in the pulsing energy of New York City. Now, award-winning illustrator Javaka Steptoe’s vivid text and bold artwork echoing Basquiat’s own introduce young readers to the powerful message that art doesn’t always have to be neat or clean--and definitely not inside the lines-- to be beautiful. ART HISTORY FOR EVERYONE By: Kristine T. G. Hardeberg Does the thought of going to an art museum make your eyes glaze over? What if someone could make art come alive? In “Art History for Everyone,” you’ll meet some of history’s most important works of art. You’ll be surprised and excited by beautiful and strange paintings and intriguing sculptures—and get to know the people behind these works of art and their exciting stories. NEW KID By: Jerry Craft Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade. As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan soon finds himself torn between two worlds—and not really fitting into either one. THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY By: Oscar Wilde How can one even describe a classic like this? This is one of my favorite classic novels from the suspense and the slow unraveling of Dorian’s sanity over time. Wilde has a way with drama (which makes sense since this is his only novel rather than plays) and you’ll be sucked in from the very first page. 10/10 would recommend reading (or reading again). CHASING VERMEER By: Blue Balliett When a book of unexplainable occurrences brings Petra and Calder together, strange things start to hap- pen. Before they know it, the two find themselves at the center of an international art scandal, where no one is spared from suspicion. As Petra and Calder are drawn clue by clue into a mysterious labyrinth, they must draw on their powers of intuition, their problem solving skills, and their knowledge of Vermeer. LUST FOR LIFE By: Irving Stone “Lust for Life” is a semi-fictional re-telling of Vincent Van Gogh‘s life story, battling poverty and mental turmoil. Using more than 700 letters from Van Gogh to his brother Theo as his foundation, Stone poetically narrates the tormented life of the celebrated artist with a raw quality, fictionalizing some minor parts which seamlessly blend with the real ones into a fantastic biographical volume. MINI ARTISTS By: Joséphine Seblon The twenty projects in “Mini Artists” engage children with art through making. “Mini artists” will discover drip painting with Jackson Pollock, carve soap sculp- tures with Barbara Hepworth, and create their own obliteration room with Yayoi Kusama. They’ll travel through time and explore art from different periods, from cave painting to Medieval stained glass, Chinese ink painting to washable graffiti inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat. Grounded in art history, “Mini Artists” also features a range of interesting art techniques that are ideal for teaching new motor skills.

REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES By Shelby Van Pelt After her husband’s death, widow Tova Sullivan begins working at the Sowell Bay Aquarium, where she connects with a giant Pacific octopus that holds the key to her son Erik’s mysterious disappearance thirty years ago in Puget Sound. CAT’S PEOPLE By Tanya Guerrero Núria, a Brooklyn barista and proud cat caretaker, discovers secret admirer notes near her favorite stray, sparking unexpected connections with four quirky neighbors as they unite to care for him and find meaning in their unlikely friendships. DOG ON IT By Spencer Quinn Intrepid canine detective Chet accompanies his human police officer partner, Bernie, on a first assignment involving the disappearance of a teenage girl who ran with the wrong crowd, a case that is complicated by Bernie’s dysfunctional personal life. STARTER VILLAIN By John Scalzi When his long-lost uncle dies and leaves him a supervillain business, Charlie faces predatory corporations and venture capitalists. With unionized dolphins, hyperintelligent talking spy cats, and a terrifying henchperson by his side, he finds the allure of being bad quite appealing. THE MOUSE AND THE MOTORCYCLE By Beverly Cleary Ralph the mouse is excited to use his magic words, “Pb-pb-b-b-b,” to start his dream motorcycle. Living in a hotel room, he has watched many families come and go. When Keith and his parents arrive, Ralph gets a chance to explore beyond his usual surroundings. YOU LUCKY DOG By Julia London When an accidental dog swap brings Carly and Max together, they discover their dogs, depressed Baxter and friendly Hazel, have formed a bond. For Baxter’s sake, Carly starts to spend more time with Hazel and Max, until she begins to understand the appeal of falling for your polar opposite. AN IMMENSE WORLD By Ed Yong The Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times bestselling author of “I Contain Multitudes” examines how the world of animal senses can help us understand and transform the way we perceive our world. THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN By Katherine Applegate Ivan is a gorilla at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall. He doesn’t think much about his past life in the jungle; instead, he enjoys TV, art, and time with friends. When he meets Ruby, a baby elephant, he sees their home in a new way and wants to help her adjust to change for the better. THE BAD GUYS: BOOK 1 By Aaron Blabey Mr. Wolf and his friends, the Bad Guys, plan to rescue two hundred dogs from the Maximum Security City Dog Pound. Will they succeed? And can Mr. Snake stop swallowing Mr. Piranha? LOST TREASURE OF THE EMERALD EYE By Geronimo Stilton The quiet editor for the “Rodent’s Gazette” thinks life is all about headlines and deadlines. When his sister, Thea, bursts in with a map leading to the legendary Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye, he’s torn from his cozy routine and plunged into a quest that will test his courage, wit, and sense of family.

Andrew Logans Artisan Chocolates & Confections began as a dream rooted in a lifelong passion for baking and a newfound love for chocolate-making. “I’ve had a passion for cooking and baking since middle school, and that passion has only grown over the years,” Mark Sutton, the founder of Andrew Logans explains. “I always knew I wanted to start a business but wasn’t sure what direction to take. About six years ago, I began experimenting with chocolate-making and quickly discovered a deep passion for both its challenges and its beauty.” The journey from passion to business required careful planning and perseverance. “After months of planning and many prayers, I looked into Catapult as a way to launch my small business. From there, it grew into the amazing business I own today!” Naming the company was a deeply personal decision. “Many chocolate shops are named after their owners, but that always felt a bit self-indulgent to me,” Sutton shares. “Instead, I chose to honor two people who constantly inspire me: my father, Andrew, and my son, Logan.” Despite a background in cooking and baking, working with chocolate was an entirely new endeavor. “I never worked with chocolate until about six years ago. Everything I know now comes from books, YouTube videos, and a lot of trial and error,” Sutton explained. Starting the company came with its challenges. “To minimize risk, I started by selling at the Lakeland Farmers Market. This presented many challenges, the biggest being the unpredictable outdoor conditions. We had to continuously adapt—figuring out how to properly store, display, and keep chocolates cool for customers. Each challenge required careful planning, but we never gave up, always finding creative solutions.” The rewards have made the effort worthwhile. Sutton continues, “There’s nothing more fulfilling than crafting something that complete strangers not only want to buy but keep coming back for. That alone makes all the hard work worthwhile.” What sets Andrew Logans apart from massproduced brands is the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each product. Sutton explains, “We don’t use assembly lines or large machinery— everything is done by hand, including painting the bonbons. We use fresh ingredients and make all of our bonbon fillings completely from scratch. We take immense pride in our work and in offering something truly unique to our customers.” Sourcing ingredients with sustainability in mind is also a key priority. “We source our chocolate from a leading Belgian manufacturer known for its commitment to sustainability and end-to-end traceability.” The process of creating the chocolates is precise and time-intensive. We get a glimpse from Sutton, “Making our signature bonbons is a multi-day process. It begins with preparing the chocolate molds, which involves thorough cleaning and polishing. Next, we apply colored cocoa butter to create vibrant designs. Then, we temper the chocolate—a precise process of heating and cooling to ensure the cocoa butter crystals form correctly. Once the chocolate is tempered, we pour it into the molds and then pour out the excess, forming a delicate shell. Afterward, we fill the shells with ganache, caramel, or another scratch-made filling. Finally, we seal the bonbons with another layer of tempered chocolate, called the ‘cap.’ Once set, the bonbons are chilled to help them contract from the mold. When ready, we flip the mold, releasing the finished chocolates.” One of the company’s proudest moments came with a new retail opportunity, Sutton explained, “One of our biggest milestones came last year when Market on Kentucky invited us to sell our products in their new store. On January 9, 2025, the store officially opened, marking a significant turning point for our business. Now, with increased visibility and access to more customers, we’re taking steps toward one day having a store of our own.” Experimentation has led to unique flavors. “One of our most unique bonbons is our Salt & Pepper flavor, which features salted caramel paired with a dark chocolate and white pepper ganache. It’s become a favorite among adventurous chocolate lovers! Other unusual flavors we’ve experimented with include Lemon Basil and Blackberry Thyme—my seasonal favorite.” As for personal favorites, one stands out. Sutton continues, “One of my favorites is a bonbon flavor we’ve had since we first opened in June 2023—PB&J! It features a peanut butter ganache and fresh raspberry jam, all encased in a thin milk chocolate shell.” Looking ahead, there are ambitious plans for expansion. “In five years, I hope to have a storefront in Downtown Lakeland, along with nationwide—and possibly international—shipping. We’re always working on new bonbon flavors and plan to expand our product offerings as well,” Sutton said. Additionally, there are exciting pairing possibilities for chocolate lovers. Sutton ended with, “Several of our customers have paired our chocolates with bourbon tastings and beer flights. In the future, we hope to offer wine-pairing classes and even hands-on chocolatemaking workshops—potentially in 2026.” With dedication, craftsmanship, and a growing community of loyal customers, Andrew Logans Chocolates continues to make its mark, offering handmade confections that combine artistry with passion. For those looking to try these creations, Andrew Logans chocolates can be found at the Market on Kentucky, located at 126 S. Kentucky Ave, in Lakeland. andrewlogans.com FB Andrew Logans IG @andrewlogansconfections Photos by Amy Sexson

Polk County… it’s time to ROCK OUT!! This year’s Battle of the Bands High School Edition is coming to Union Hall with a lineup of musicians from Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Osceola, Orange, and, of course, good ol’ Polk County. I had the honor of talking with Holly Cordero, the founder and CEO of Cordero Music, a local music and performance-centered nonprofit, and the event coordinator for this month’s shred fest to get some details about the gig and the mission behind her nonprofit: “To provide music experiences to all young musicians, despite barriers to entry, through live performance opportunities, sponsored private music lessons, and sponsored quality music instruments.” Battle of the Bands started small, with the only two schools offering rock band programs to students in the area. Holly and the teacher for the other school wanted to provide an opportunity for their students to meet and to have the benefits of a community centered on music. “We wanted a chance to have our kids play for each other and network with each other, so they knew that they weren’t the only kids playing popular music in school.” The rock programs of the Davenport School of the Arts and Ridgeview Global Studies Academy combined forces to give their kids that chance! The event has drawn in more rock programs every year, growing the community of young musicians who love to rock out and rock on in Central Florida. Holly tries to reach out to as many schools and programs that she knows about, by contacting music program directors and extracurricular organizers personally to make them aware of these performance opportunities for their groups. Out of all of the auditionees, only five bands have been chosen to compete for the crowd under three distinct categories: Best in Show (a combination of covers and original songs), Best Original Act (all original songs), and Best Cover Band (all cover songs). Not only will the bands be competing for the bragging rights of being one of the best central Florida rock bands, some awesome prizes have been provided, including five hours of studio recording time in Orlando, D’Addario merch and items, instruments, a paying gig at Bowen Yard, and even an electric scooter donated by Winter Haven’s own Bike Shop! If only I could go back to being a teen again, I would have loved to rock out and participate in such an incredible event with a team behind it that clearly cares so much. I asked Holly what the most rewarding part of working with and for the local youth rock community is, and it’s all about picking up good vibrations! “I really enjoy seeing the students connect with each other, or the musicians, as they’re not all students, but the musicians connect with each other because they’ve actually created projects outside of our concerts on their own [as well as] collaborations and that’s really what the whole community is about. They are finding new musicians to work with and building connections among their peers.” Connections and support can mean the difference between a young musician making it through the rough parts of a career in the arts and thriving or falling away from their dreams. “It’s funny, relationships have formed after some of our festivals. [Everyone loves a good showmance!]. They end up also playing on shows together, so I know when there was a breakup for a band that performed in a prior year, they reached out to me and I got to recommend a whole bunch of different guitarists for them and bassists from people they’ve already met. So, it just helps build up a community and a network so that everyone feels supported in whatever part of their journey they’re on.” The amount of care and passion that Holly shows for these performers is incredible, and I for one am excited to see how far they will all go! Cafe T42 Cafe T42 Planet Phoenix Valguero Princess Cupcake and the Sprinkles Face the Fence For high school students who are interested in vying for glory with their band in the 2026 Battle, registration for auditions is already open on the Cordero Music Inc. website, with auditions occurring in February of 2026! On the other hand, those who are looking for a less competitive style of performance can register to perform in Cordero Music Inc.’s summer and winter music festivals, which gives youth bands and performers an opportunity to showcase their skills in front of music executives, theme park representatives, and the general public or just to get some good old fashioned stage time! For those of us lame adults who are forever shunned from participating in cool high school Battle of the Bands (no, I’m definitely not bitter, why do you ask?) the best way to support this awesome program and these spectacular artists is by showing up to the events. Cordero Music wants to make performance accessible, especially to those who have been underserved and missed out on opportunities to explore the arts because of finances, so all events are free to the public. The nonprofit relies on at-will donations to keep afloat and provide their kids with equipment, instruction, and performance spaces, so if you are a member of the public who has the ability to provide a donation to support their work, please consider it! But wait… there’s more! You’re not only supporting arts initiatives and young artists in Central Florida, a portion of the money raised from Cordero Music’s events is also donated to Project No Labels, a Central Florida mental health and community building organization which offers free and/or discounted mental health services to residents of Florida. This organization has been in action since 2015 changing the lives of marginalized communities and providing mental health resources to those who need it. Cordero Music partners with them throughout the year to fundraise for their mental health services and promote events happening between the two organizations! So, music lovers unite on April 13, 5 pm to 10 pm at Union Hall in Lakeland. Be there or be square Polk County! Battle of the Bands April 13, 5 pm Union Hall 1023 Florida Ave S, Lakeland corderomusic.org FB Cordero Music IG @corderomusicf

Known as “The Man of a Thousand Faces,” Lon Chaney Sr.—silent film actor and pioneering makeup artist—is revered for his transformative performances and groundbreaking prosthetic work. He starred in more than 150 films and was an audience favorite, earning him the kind of immortality the screen seldom grants. Through both purpose and ability, he chose to embody characters existing outside the realm of conventional beauty and normalcy, giving depth to figures often relegated to monstrosity. This month, on April 1st, we celebrate his birthday. This year, we mark multiple film anniversaries in Chaney’s legacy: the 100th anniversary of “The Phantom of the Opera” (1925) and “The Unholy Three” (1925), as well as his final and only talking film, “The Unholy Three” (1930)—capturing Chaney’s voice on screen for the first and last time. Born Leonidas Frank Chaney on April 1, 1883, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Chaney grew up in a household of silent communication—both of his parents were deaf. His fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) and mastery of pantomime shaped his ability to tell stories visually. He developed an acute sensitivity to physical expression, a skill that would define his career and allow him to portray deeply human emotions without a single spoken word. Film was new. Watching a visual story unfold on screen was new. In a time before sound, audiences had to feel a performance, and Chaney was a master at making them do just that. Through dedicated research and pioneering use of makeup, he developed new techniques in an era before professional special effects, informing the art of movie makeup and inspiring its artists a century later. He used wire to pull back his nose, fish skin for texture, and painfully tight harnesses to contort his body. His self-applied prosthetics for “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1923) required him to wear a 15-pound hump, while his makeup for “The Phantom of the Opera” (1925) created an unforgettable, skull-like visage that remains one of cinema’s most haunting images. His expertise was so profound that he wrote the 1929 Encyclopedia Britannica entry on makeup. Though Chaney was famous for the faces he wore on screen, the true power of his performances came from his deep empathy for the characters he played. He once said: “I wanted to remind people that the lowest types of humanity may have within them the capacity for supreme self-sacrifice. The dwarfed, misshapen beggar of the streets may have the noblest ideals. Most of my roles have carried the theme of self-sacrifice or renunciation. These are the stories I wish to do.” This belief shaped his greatest performances— characters like Quasimodo in “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1923) and Erik, the Phantom, who were defined by their suffering but also by their capacity for love and sacrifice. It was his depiction of the more commonplace outsider that endeared him to my heart in my first viewings of his films. Those outside the law, those who found and failed to find a return in love, but most of all his clown with a brave face. In 1925, Chaney and director Tod Browning—a creative partnership that would later produce the notorious lost film ”London After Midnight” (1927)— released “The Unholy Three,” a crime thriller that blended humor and suspense. Chaney played Professor Echo, a ventriloquist who, along with his criminal accomplices, used his skills to orchestrate elaborate heists. Five years later, as Hollywood transitioned to sound, Chaney reprised his role in a remake of “The Unholy Three” (1930)—his first and only talking film. His ability to alter his voice for different characters— something he had perfected on stage years before—astounded audiences. He seamlessly shifted between multiple voices, proving that his mastery of performance was not confined to silent film. Not long after completing “The Unholy Three,” Chaney was diagnosed with throat cancer. He died on August 26, 1930, at the age of 47, just as a new era of cinema was beginning. I have spent an adult lifetime in Chaney fandom avoiding the last scene of “The Unholy Three” a train station platform farewell that would unknowingly serve as Lon Chaney’s own goodbye to cinema. In this final moment, his character, Professor Echo, delivers a line that would become his last spoken words on film: “That’s all there is to life, friends, … a little laughter … a little tear.” In preparing to write this article, I decided that an opportunity such as this deserved an author willing to risk heart-sting to share the story. I felt, in every frame, a reminder that my apprehension was born out of the kind of reverence we only find in our heroes—and gratitude that I was able to find mine, despite the almost hundred years between us. Chaney played the grotesque, the outcast, the forgotten—and in doing so, he encouraged audiences to empathize with them. His performances gave those roles depth, dignity, and humanity in ways that had rarely been seen before and are still far too scarce. The beauty of empathy is that it does not require exact sameness to create a bond; its connection is born from the attempt to recognize experiences that, while different in circumstance, are universal in emotion. In its purest essence, the value of film will always be the ability it grants us to see ourselves where we are not. The further our connection reaches, the more we gain by moments we spend imagining. Famed portrayers of movie monsters have always held a special standing with me, but the one who taught me to feel with them … I call hero. Lon Chaney’s death did not mark the end of his influence. His films continued to captivate new audiences, particularly during the rise of “monster kid” culture in the 1960s. Forrest J Ackerman, creator of “Famous Monsters of Filmland,” ensured that Chaney’s image would never fade from memory. Many issues of “Famous Monsters” featured a full-page photograph of Chaney, accompanied by this declaration: “Born in 1886, Lon Chaney is now 75 years old—kept alive in the hearts of Robert Bloch, Jerome Bixby, Ray Bradbury, Forrest Ackerman, and all those who loved him. As long as there’s a FAMOUS MONSTERS , we have decided that there will always be one full-page foto devoted to the memory of Mr. Monster himself. Here he is in the climax of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA . END” “LON CHANEY SHALL NOT DIE.” And he hasn’t. As we mark the 100th anniversary of “The Phantom of the Opera” and “The Unholy Three” his work continues to inspire filmmakers, actors, and special effects artists. Chaney’s legacy proves that the language of cinema—of movement, expression, and transformation—needs no words to endure. Even so, here I offer around a thousand words to the Man of a Thousand Faces, so that I may join the efforts of countless others before me.

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY WITH INATURALIST AND THE CITY NATURE CHALLENGE Earth Day is a reminder of our deep connection to the natural world. Here in Polk County, we’re surrounded by wild beauty, from the pines of the Green Swamp to the wind-swept ridges of the Lake Wales Ridge. But how often do we pause to notice the tracks in the sand, the flutter of a butterfly, or the call of a bird overhead? This year, go beyond enjoying nature and help conserve it. With just a smartphone and a little curiosity, you can become a citizen scientist by using iNaturalist, a free app that allows anyone to document plants, animals, and fungi in their local environment. From April 25-28, Polk County will join the City Nature Challenge, a worldwide event where people compete to document the most species in their communities. It’s a chance to explore, sharpen your wildlife-spotting skills, and contribute valuable data all while having fun in our wild spaces. JOIN THE CITY NATURE CHALLENGE The challenge events this year include guided hikes, scavenger hunts, and BioBlitzes, which are timed events where volunteers work together to catalog as many species as possible. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or just enjoy a walk in the woods, there’s an event for you. One highlight is the Bellini Preserve BioBlitz on Saturday, April 26, where nature lovers will gather to document species in one of Polk County’s newest nature preserves. You can find more information and RSVP by scanning the QR Code, below. OTHER EVENTS INCLUDE: · Sunset BioBlitz at Se7en Wetlands – April 25 · Colt Creek State Park iNaturalist Scavenger Hunt – April 26 • Wetland Bioblitz at Tiger Creek Preserve – April 26 · Lake Wales Ridge Guided Hike – April 27 Find the full event list at is.gd/Azkkfk . WHY DOES BIODIVERSITY DATA MATTER? Biodiversity is the foundation of a healthy environment. It affects everything from the pollination of crops to clean water filtration in wetlands to the balance of predator and prey in an ecosystem. The greater the variety of species in an area, the more resilient it is to change and damage. Unfortunately, Florida is losing biodiversity at an alarming rate. Habitat loss due to construction and development, pollution, climate change, and invasive species threaten native plants and animals, often before we fully understand their role in the ecosystem. Even small changes, such as the disappearance of a single pollinator species, can have cascading effects on the plants and wildlife that depend on it. Traditionally, we have relied on academic research to monitor these changes, but scientific studies take time and are expensive to conduct. Advances in citizen science (like iNaturalist and the City Nature Challenge) help researchers gather data faster and at a larger scale, reducing costs while expanding our understanding of biodiversity. The observations collected by everyday nature enthusiasts provide real-time insights that scientists and land managers use to make informed conservation decisions. That’s why efforts like the City Nature Challenge are critical. By documenting species with iNaturalist, everyday people can help scientists track population changes, monitor the spread of invasive species, and identify areas in need of conservation efforts. At a time when research funding is increasingly limited, citizen science helps bridge the gap—ensuring we have the data needed to protect and manage our ecosystems. THE IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTING RARE PLANTS Polk County sits at the heart of the Lake Wales Ridge, an ancient sandy highland that was once a chain of islands when much of Florida was underwater. This isolation allowed plants and animals to evolve here that exist nowhere else on Earth. However, many of these species are endangered. Take sandhill lupine (Lupinus cumulicola), a rare wildflower found only in Florida’s dry, sandy habitats. Endemic to the Lake Wales Ridge and surrounding sandhills, this species thrives in scrubby flatwoods and longleaf pine ecosystems. Its seeds germinate best in open, sunlit areas created by periodic fires. Without fire, taller vegetation crowds it out, making it difficult to survive. Though rare, it can still be locally abundant in Polk County, making it an excellent species to document during the City Nature Challenge. Other rare plants, like the Florida perforate reindeer lichen (Cladonia perforate), help stabilize sandy soils, while yellow butterworts (Pinguicula lutea) rely on trapping insects for nutrients in nutrient-poor wetlands. Many of these species are increasingly at risk due to habitat loss and development. One of the most effective ways to protect these species is through land conservation. Here in Polk County, residents recently took a bold step for conservation. A voter-approved ballot initiative set aside funding to purchase and protect natural areas, ensuring they remain wild for future generations. Bellini Preserve is one of the first properties acquired through this initiative, meaning it will be permanently protected rather than lost to development. CELEBRATE EARTH DAY WITH ACTION So how can you make the most of Earth Day this year? · STEP OUTSIDE. Visit a state park, nature preserve, or even your own backyard. Look closely at the wild plants and animals around you. What flowers are blooming? What insects are buzzing by? · DOCUMENT WHAT YOU SEE. Download iNaturalist, take photos of wildlife, and upload your observations. Every bit of data helps scientists understand and protect Florida’s ecosystems. · JOIN AN EVENT. Sign up for a City Nature Challenge BioBlitz and experience the thrill of discovering new species with fellow nature lovers. Conservation isn’t just something scientists do; it’s something we all play a role in. Every observation, every effort to appreciate Florida’s wild spaces, adds to the bigger picture. This Earth Day, let’s come together as a community to explore, observe, and protect the incredible biodiversity that makes Polk County special. If you have questions or want to learn more about natural resources in Polk County, contact scarnevale@ufl.edu . You can also find upcoming workshops and events at polkcountyextension.eventbrite.com .

Many homeowners have mature, established landscapes that require updates and changes. Mature landscapes present unique opportunities and challenges for homeowners as maintenance needs shift. Plants can outgrow their space, homeowners make alterations to property and landscapes, and plant health can decline over time. Ask yourself the following questions to determine if your landscape needs an update: 1. Do you have a hedge that you are constantly pruning? It may be time to remove it and select a shrub that will not grow as large. 2. Do you have plants that are severely affected by drought conditions? If you have plants that really struggle during periods of drought, consider finding a more drought-tolerant alternative. 3. Do you have plants that just don’t look good? It may be that they are in the wrong place or that they are past their prime. It’s okay to replace struggling plants if you aren’t happy with their appearance! Landscaping updates and maintenance can be easy if you have a plan. Follow these tips to before making modifications to your landscape. 1. RETAIN VS. REMOVE: CREATE A PLAN How do you determine what plants to keep and which ones to remove? Plants that are high maintenance, planted in the wrong place, susceptible to pests, or not to your liking might be a reason to remove. Before removing plants, create a plan. Analyze your landscape and figure out what goes and what stays. Working with a plan will help you when you are ready to make changes to your landscape. Remember to retain and protect native plant material and remove plants listed as invasive on the UF/IFAS Assessment of Non-Native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas: assessment.ifas.ufl.edu . 2. TIME TO REPLANT: RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE When you finally decide to make that first trip to the nursery (with your plan in hand), you should have some idea of what you are going to purchase. Having a plan will help you pick out that shrub, perennial, or tree that will work with the site conditions in your yard. Ensuring that you find the right plant for the right place in your yard is critical to a low-maintenance and sustainable landscape. Is the plant going to be in a sunny or shady location? Is the soil sandy or does it retain water? Are there structural limitations you must take into consideration (such as power lines or roof overhangs)? Your plan should address all of these obstacles before your trip to the nursery, making shopping and selection a lot easier. It is also important to know the plant’s maintenance requirements prior to purchase. Drought tolerance, low maintenance, and minimal fertilizer and pesticide needs are some things you may want to take into consideration. Just how much time and money do you want to spend on that plant? Utilize UF/ IFAS Extension landscaping and gardening resources to help in selection: Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Plant Guide: ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/apps/plant-guide Gardening Solutions: gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu 3. ESTABLISHED TREES AND SHRUBS Working with a mature, established landscape is great because the framework is already there. If you are a new homeowner and aren’t sure where to start, live with your landscape for a few months and then you will realize the changes you want to make. Managing Tree Canopies Properly: Mature trees provide essential benefits, including cooling shade and erosion control. However, they require periodic evaluation for structural integrity and proper pruning is critical. Certified arborists can assess tree health and recommend necessary interventions. Lawn and Groundcover Adaptations: As landscapes mature, changes in sun exposure due to tree growth can affect lawn health. Shaded areas may experience thinning grass, necessitating a transition to shade-tolerant groundcovers and plants. Water Conservation Strategies: Mature landscapes require less irrigation than newly established plantings, but efficient water management remains critical. Adjust irrigation schedules based on seasonal rainfall and plant needs, transition planting beds to microirrigation, and cap or cut use to zones that no longer need regular irrigation. Landscaping a mature, established landscape requires a balance between preservation and adaptation. By following UF/IFAS Extension recommendations, homeowners can maintain healthy, sustainable, and visually appealing outdoor spaces. Regular assessments, proper pruning, and water conservation ensure that mature landscapes continue to thrive for years to come. For more information, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk . The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Visit us in person, give us a call, or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu . Stay up to date with our monthly gardening and landscaping newsletter substack.com/@ yourcentralfloridayard and the podcast, “Your Central Florida Yard” (on Apple and Spotify). The Florida Master Gardener Program is a volunteerdriven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible. An Equal Opportunity Institution.

As Winter Haven entered the1920s the U.S. Census listed the population at 1597 people - a small but motivated populace that had embarked on big projects like connecting the areas lakes by canals. Armed with “can do” optimism, they welcomed the “roaring twenties” with gusto. Winter Haven’s City Hall circa 1923. It was torn down in the late 1960s to make way for a Royal Castle restaurant. Currently Popeye’s location. NEW CITY HALL: In 1920, a bond issue was approved to build a new City Hall on the SW corner of Sixth St. and Central Ave, SW. It would literally replace a substandard corrugated structure that had served that purpose on the site. The building was a bold statement for the fledgling community and housed both the Police and Fire Departments on the first floor, with rooms for the city administration, Chamber of Commerce, a courtroom and jail on the upper level. It would open in 1923. HAVEN HOTEL: The year was 1921 and Winter Haven residents R. H. Ross and J. Walker Pope (father of Cypress Gardens founder Richard “Dick” Pope) decided the city needed a good hotel. They sold stock to local residents and construction was soon started. However, it only got as far as the iron framework “skeleton” before the project ran short on funds. To resume work, bonds were sold to raise the needed funds and construction soon resumed. By late October 1924 the hotel was what the Florida Chief (forerunner of the News Chief) called “one of the most magnificent in the country,” The Haven Hotel was ready to open and a sunny late October day found 350 of Winter Haven’s then 1600 residents gathered to celebrate the opening of the six-story coquina shell building overlooking Lake Howard. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: In September of 1923 the Board of Trade transitioned to become the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce with offices in the new City Hall. CITY COMMISSION: On January 1, 1924, the village implemented a City Commission/City Manager form of government having outgrown the town council format. Originally there were three commissioners, and today there are five. Television star Garry Moore (with back to camera) speaks to thousands gathered in the Lake Silver Amphitheatre during the 1957 Citrus Exposition. Double ferris wheel in background was the northern terminus of the midway on Third St. NW THE ORANGE FESTIVAL IS BORN: A significant agricultural celebration was born in 1924 as the Polk County Orange Festival. The Orange Festival was the brainchild of Dr. R. A. Nichols, pastor of the Christian Church in Winter Haven. He had been a lecturer for several years on the Chautauqua Circuit (a traveling tent show in the early 1900s that brought cultural programs such as lectures, music and plays to remote areas of the country). He had witnessed the crowds that were attracted to many county fairs and was reminded of their popularity when he happened across an article about the Portland, Oregon Rose Show. Dr. Nichols took his idea to the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce that at the time had a considerable membership for a town of 2,000 people. The Chamber immediately embraced the concept and four months later the first Orange Festival was held on January 22, 23 and 24, 1924. The Festival would grow to become the Florida Orange Festival, later the Florida Citrus Exposition and finally the Florida Citrus Showcase. From humble beginnings in 1924, the festival brought millions of people to Winter Haven to celebrate citrus with fresh fruit displays, popular television and radio shows, and spectacular midways. But as the industry moved away from fresh fruit, major theme parks opened and disease ravaged what was left of our once proud groves, the festival folded in 2008. THE BANKER’S CUP AWARD: The Banker’s Cup Award is considered our community’s highest honor. The first award in 1923 was sponsored by the Winter Haven Clearing House Association (serving the three local banks at the time) and presented at the last annual meeting of the Board of Trade. The tradition continued with the exception of war years 1943-45 (and more recently 2020 due to Covid) honoring one individual each year. In 1965 the award was expanded to honor both a man and woman annually. From 1923 through 1996, a person was required to win the honor three times to take permanent possession of the large loving cup, with most receiving a smaller token cup as a permanent memento at the end of their year. In 1997, the award committee changed the process and now permanently awards the cup to each year’s recipients. The 2024 recipients are Jane McGinnis and T. Michael Stavres. Land agents in Central Park await the charter train bringing land speculators from northern states to Winter Haven during the 1920s Florida land boom. THE BOOM BEGINS: Many factors contributed to Florida’s land boom of the 1920s but none more than World War I. During the war, wealthy U.S. families could not travel to such places as the French Riviera and had to find alternate tourism destinations. The east coast railroad had been completed to the Miami area and the tropical landscape, ocean beaches and breeze opened the door to what would become Miami’s primary economic engine at the time — tourism. The influx of tourists and money created excitement, optimism, and land sales. Construction of homes and accommodations grew to a fever pitch, and a gridlock of building supplies developed among the railways. The blockage was so acute that the railroads declared a moratorium on construction freight and only allowed essential shipments such as food and medical supplies. Ironically, an accidental sinking of a ship in the mouth of Miami’s harbor prevented the last viable delivery point from accepting construction materials. That fact, plus the Hurricane of 1926, coupled with poor construction standards, meant that by the end of that year, the boom was a bust. Real estate values in Florida evaporated, and many individuals, companies, and municipalities defaulted on loans and bonds. Winter Haven would be among them. This would foreshadow the Great Depression. Central Avenue looking west. Williamson Theater (now Ritz) is on the right. WILLIAMSON/RITZ THEATER: January 28, 1925, the Williamson (now The Ritz) Theater opened to great fanfare. Originally equipped for silent movies and Vaudeville, the theater transitioned to “talkies” and was renamed the “Ritz” in 1932. POSTSCRIPT Of note during a tumultuous decade is the founding of the Winter Haven Rotary Club, which celebrates its centennial in 2025. And in 2027 the Garden Club of Winter Haven will mark its 100th Anniversary. Both plan special commemorations. Next Month: The 1930s: Winter Haven Defies the Great Depression

You can find more pictures and more information about each of these spots at goodfoodpolk.com or visit us on our socials @goodfoodpolk. Louise’s Cafe Louise’s Cafe serves soul-warming, flavor-packed Soul food and breakfast all day. We had the wings smothered in two sauces, the cheesesteak on a toasted bun, and the fried okra. Louise’s Cafe is located at Dewdney Plaza, 1654 First Street N, Winter Haven. Brake Burger Garage The crispy waffle fries, smash burgers, and chicken tenders are from Brake Burger Garage in Lake Wales. With a brand-new Beer Garden out back, this is a great place to hang out with friends and grab a bite to eat. Located at 206 E State Rd 60, Lake Wales. TigerTown We went to a Detroit Tigers Spring Training game and had more than peanuts. Pictured are the chicken tenders and a cheeseburger with fries. Now that the Tigers are gone, we’re heading to a Flying Tigers game with the same great food. Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium is located at 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland. Cheryl’s Cakes We celebrated National Pound Cake Day with a couple of slices from Cheryl’s Cakes located next to Louise’s Cafe.

NCAA WOMENS FINAL FOUR April 3 – 6 throughout Tampa beginning with a festival jam packed with special appearances, interactive games, giveaways, basketball contests, food, licensed merch and more! Watch an open practice with two participating teams, attend a free concert by GloRilla, and more. ncaa.com/womens-final-four . SPRING EDITION: PAINT & SIP April 7, 6:30 pm at Armature works. Get step-by-step instructions on how to paint a seasonal inspired wine glass – the perfect addition to your next event or to give as a gift. Guests 21+ are invited to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine. Supplies included, purchase tickets in advance. armatureworks.com DOME NIGHT: PINK FLOYD April 3, 5:30 pm at The Dalí Dome at The Dali. Celebrate and experience “Pink Floyd: The Dark Side of the Moon” while encompassed in 360 degrees of sight, sound and sensation. This experience offers a glimpse into creative worlds that are both remarkably insightful and fantastically unconventional. Purchase tickets in advance. thedali.org YBOR CITY INDIE FLEA April 6, noon – 4 pm at The Cuban Club. Find artisanal and handmade goods, plants, vintage collectors, jewelry, gifts, art, and more. Beyond vendors, you’ll find local food and drink, music and good vibes. This is family/pet friendly and an ecoconscious event. theindieflea.com TAMPA BAY RAYS Rays Up! You have 17 chances to watch the Rays play in April at George M. Steinbrenner Field. The Rays stadium, Tropicana Field in St. Pete, was significantly damaged by Hurricane Milton. They will go up against the Pirates, Angels, Braves, Red Sox, Yankees, and the Royals. raysbaseball.com MAINSAIL ART FESTIVAL April 5 & 6 at Vinoy Park in St. Pete. One of the premier cultural events, where more than 100,000 visitors attend the festival to enjoy and purchase quality art. They will also have live music, a kid’s activity tent, food, a student show and more. Artists will compete for $60,000 in prize money. mainsailart.org FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at Busch Gardens. Guests can purchase culinary delights, craft brews, wine, and cocktails for an additional charge through May 18. Park guests can also experience free, live concert performances with park admission. buschgardens.com EASTER COOKIE DECORATING CLASS April 18, 6 pm at Armature Works. Join Ellie Mae’s Bakery for a fun and creative Easter-themed cookie decorating class! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to decorate a beautiful set of Easter Cookies to take home while sipping on wine. Purchase tickets in advance. armatureworks.com FIGHT FOR AIR CLIMB April 5, 7 am at the Bank of America Plaza in Tampa. Climb 42 flights of stairs (914 steps) to the top. Proceeds go to the American Lung Association. Every type of climber is welcome, whether competitive, or taking it at your own pace. The Climb team will be there for support. action.lung.org MUSIC FEST April 26 & 27 at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. The Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival Music Fest will feature: Full Force Brothers, Eric Darius, Brick featuring Jimmy Brown, Boney James, Jeffrey Bradshaw and Friends, Morris Day and the Time, and more. Family-friendly, bring chairs, kids 12 and under are free. tampablackheritage.org

BEER ‘MERICA April 5, 6 – 9 pm at Gaston Edwards Park at Lake Ivanhoe. In celebration of American Craft Beer Week, Beer ‘Merica will feature 100 different American craft brews to sample plus food trucks, live entertainment and a fireworks show. VIP available for an additional charge. beermericaorlando.com DISNEY’S THE LION KING April 23 – May 18 at Dr. Phillips Center. The Serengeti comes to life as never before. As the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. More than 100 million people have experienced the visual artistry, the music, and the theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular and winner of six Tony Awards. This is a must-see. drphillipscenter.org FIESTA IN THE PARK April 5 & 6 from 10 am – 5 pm. Bring the family and stroll around Lake Eola while browsing hundreds of unique artist and craft booths, food vendors, and a beer garden. They will also have live entertainment and a kids’ zone for the whole family. fiestainthepark.com WINTER PARK PAINT OUT April 20 – 26. Twenty-two professionally acclaimed plein air artists will paint outside at the Polasek Museum and at other locations throughout Winter Park and Orlando. All are invited to watch the painting demonstrations. Artwork will be available for purchase with a portion of the proceeds going to the Museum. winterparkpaintout.org SEVEN SEAS FOOD FESTIVAL Throughout April at Sea World. Family-friendly and foodie approved, purchase food from over 190 mouthwatering dishes inspired by global cuisines. Watch live concerts every Saturday, and additional performances on select Fridays and Sundays. Admission to Seven Seas is included with admission to Sea World. seaworld.com JAZZ & BLUES CONCERT April 12, 7 pm at Leu Gardens. Hear the Dave Capp Project featuring France Neil, Betty Fox Band, and Velvet 45 performing in three locations in the 50-acre gardens. Bring chairs or a blanket and sit wherever you’d like on any lawn area or find a nice spot in a gazebo. Bring a picnic and relax. leugardens.org FLORIDA FILM FESTIVAL April 11 – 20. An Oscar-qualifying festival with 170+ films, 27 world premieres, representing 41 countries. Through 10 days of films and first-class events, film lovers mingle with filmmakers and celebrities over hand-crafted cocktails and a delicious menu at Eden Bar and inside Enzian Theater. floridafilmfestival.com RUN FOR THE TREES April 26, 7:30 am at Ward Park in Winter Park. The last mile of the 5k race is on the tree-canopied, wilderness dirt road of Genius Drive. This privately owned glimpse of old Florida is opened to the public only once a year, for this event. All inperson finishers receive a young tree! Walkers welcome. trackshack.com/event/108 BREWS AROUND THE ZOO April 12, 5 – 9 pm at the Central Florida Zoo. Features beer tasting stations with more than 35 different craft beers to choose from. They also offer wine & seltzer for those who aren’t a fan of beer. Buy the Tasting Trail Pass in addition to your ticket and eat. Must be 21+. VIP available for an additional charge. centralfloridazoo.org SCIENCE AND WINE April 26, 7 pm at the Orlando Science Center. Enjoy an evening of live music, food, and wine tastings from diverse regions and meet sommeliers while experiencing all that the Center has to offer. Guests can participate in a silent auction, all proceeds benefit the Center. osc.org