If, like me, you grew up in Central Florida during the final bow of a golden age for theme parks, then you may have more memories than most of pyrotechnic demonstrations celebrating the movie magic of box office hits from decades past. As a young child— already weary of fireworks, lacking any contextual knowledge of film, and harboring a persistent belief that an accident would happen while I was present—I was terrified anytime something blew up. The film-loving adult I grew into, however, adores them. I’ll take the small-scale, the large, the operatic, and the gratuitous—practical or made in post. The lead-up. The tension. The clock. The building in ruins. The meticulous planning required. The release. There’s something deeply satisfying about a welltimed explosion. It clears the air. It relieves the tension. It signals that change has come—order out of chaos, or sometimes chaos out of order. In the world of summer cinema, an explosion isn’t always about violence. More often, it’s about catharsis. Our minds work on the story before us and, if we are lucky, they work to diffuse the ones within while we watch. “I AM SERIOUS. AND DON’T CALL ME SHIRLEY.” In the pre-digital age, filmmakers had no margin for error. An explosion couldn’t be tweaked in post. It had to be filmed right the first time. This gave physical explosions a kind of reverence—each one a handmade monument to spectacle. The 1970s birthed the disaster epic, where spectacle met ensemble melodrama. In “The Towering Inferno” (1974) and “Earthquake” (1974), the explosions were brought to life through intricate practical effects and miniature work, executed with remarkable precision. For “The Towering Inferno,” real fire was combined with gas-fed controlled detonations on detailed building sets and large-scale interiors, creating the illusion of a skyscraper engulfed in chaos. “Earthquake” employed a blend of miniature cityscapes, rigged pyrotechnics, and soundstage collapses—enhanced by Sensurround technology— to deliver explosions that felt as immersive as they looked. Douglas Trumbull, a pioneer in effects work, once said that destruction in film “only works when there’s something human at stake.” That ethos shaped the era. Explosions were grand, yes—but grounded in the fragility of civilization. “I LOVE THE SMELL OF NAPALM IN THE MORNING.” The iconic napalm explosion in “Apocalypse Now” (1979) was a feat of practical effects engineering that pushed the boundaries of on-location filmmaking. Special effects coordinator Joe Lombardi and his team used over 1,200 gallons of gasoline and carefully placed explosive charges across a quarter-mile stretch of jungle in the Philippines. The production had only one chance to get it right—multiple cameras were set up to capture the blast from different angles, knowing it couldn’t be repeated. Everything had to be perfectly timed: the helicopters flying overhead, the detonation synced to Wagner’s Ride of the Valkyries, and the actors’ reactions. The resulting fireball was not enhanced in post-production—it was all real, orchestrated with terrifying precision. “SMILE, YOU SON OF A—” “Jaws” (1975) didn’t invent cinematic explosions— but it weaponized one. Spielberg’s climactic shark detonation was no mere finale—it was a release. The pressure had built for two hours, and when Chief Brody blew the great white sky-high, audiences erupted with him. The explosion was symbolic. It was primal. And it was practical. The team behind “Jaws” worked with practical effects guru Bob Mattey, who had previously designed the giant squid in “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” (1954). Mattey’s shark—a 25-foot mechanical beast nicknamed “Bruce”—was notoriously difficult to control. When it finally met its end via air tank and rifle shot, the blast was as much for the crew as the characters. And it worked. That final explosion helped launch the blockbuster era. “YOU’RE ALL CLEAR, KID! NOW LET’S BLOW THIS THING AND GO HOME!” The destruction of the Death Star was achieved through the meticulous use of miniature pyrotechnics—an innovative practical effect that set a new standard for cinematic spectacle. Under the guidance of special effects legend John Dykstra and the team at Industrial Light & Magic, a detailed scale model of the Death Star was constructed, rigged with carefully placed explosives, and filmed at high speed to enhance the illusion of massive scale. The explosion was choreographed to bloom outward in concentric rings, echoing the power of a chain reaction, and was enhanced with optical compositing to create the shimmering debris and energy shockwave. The result was a practical effect so convincing that it helped redefine what audiences expected from science fiction cinema. “DO I REALLY LOOK LIKE A GUY WITH A PLAN?” By the 1980s, technology had improved—but the commitment to practical effects remained. Films like “Die Hard” (1988) and “Lethal Weapon” (1987) turned explosions into emotional crescendos. McClane’s rooftop detonation isn’t just a set piece— it’s a character choice. The explosions in “Speed” (1994) were achieved through precise practical effects, utilizing customrigged pyrotechnic charges, reinforced stunt vehicles, and collapsible set pieces engineered for controlled destruction. Special effects coordinator John Frazier and his team employed linear-shaped charges and black powder for rapid, directional blasts, often triggered with split-second timing alongside highspeed camera arrays to capture the impact from multiple angles. For the climactic bus jump and subsequent explosions, a full-scale bus was reinforced with steel plating and weighted to maintain trajectory and withstand rigged detonations on impact. No CGI (computer-generated imagery) was used—the visceral intensity came entirely from meticulous physical staging and analog expertise. “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” (1991) combined detailed miniatures, full-scale pyrotechnics, and early CGI to craft its groundbreaking explosions. Practical sequences—like the Cyberdyne building blast—used high-speed photography, linear charges, and debris cannons to simulate large-scale destruction. The integration of analog and digital techniques marked a technical milestone in visual effects. The Gotham General Hospital explosion in “The Dark Knight” (2008) was both a masterclass in performance—featuring little dialogue—and a triumph of practical controlled demolition. The sequence involved a real building—the abandoned Brach’s Candy Factory in Chicago—rigged with explosives and captured in just one take. The blast is delayed, awkward, then sudden mirroring the Joker’s chaos. It’s not just destruction—it’s a punchline, a moment capturing the darkest shades in the mythos. In “Mad Max: Fury Road” (2015), the explosive effects were crafted with a fierce dedication to practical filmmaking. Director George Miller and special effects supervisor Dan Oliver relied on real pyrotechnics, stunt choreography, and high-octane vehicles rigged for destruction. Over 150 vehicles were built for the film, many designed to crash, burn, or blow apart on cue. Explosions were executed live on set in the Namibian desert, with minimal reliance on CGI—used mainly to enhance or composite existing footage. The result is a visceral, tangible experience; with fireballs that I can almost feel when I close my eyes. Explosions in cinema are about transformation. A building collapses. A character changes. The world reshapes itself. I have often walked into a theater with the hope that I’d walk out with a new perspective—as someone better equipped to tackle my challenges. I find that hope met quite often in summertime.

Thanks to Florida’s mild winters, many species begin their seasonal rituals well before their northern counterparts. Courtship can start as early as January or February, and by May, much of the wildlife activity has shifted to parenting, feeding, guarding, and teaching the next generation. While spring rains may not arrive until late May or even mid-June, the tempo of spring has been building for months. Let’s take a look at some of our seasonal wildlife happenings… Denning in the Pinewoods and Pastures Coyotes are found in all 67 Florida counties, and spring is the most intimate time of year in their life cycle. After mating in winter, coyotes give birth to litters of pups in March or April. By May, those pups are growing fast and still relying on their den sites for protection and rest. This is the time when young coyotes are learning where to hide, how to hunt cooperatively, and what the easiest and best prey items are in their area. Because coyotes hunt in social groups and pass along learned behaviors, it can actually be helpful to keep an established pack around if they’re not causing problems. You never know what hunting strategies or preferences a new pack might bring. Nesting Beneath the Sand In spring, gopher tortoises become more visible above ground as nesting season approaches. These statelisted, threatened reptiles begin laying eggs in mid-May, with females depositing clutches of up to nine eggs in the sunny, sandy “apron” outside their burrows. Their half-moon-shaped burrow entrances are signs of healthy upland habitat, especially in places like Circle B Bar Reserve and Hilochee Wildlife Management Area. While tortoises dig burrows year-round, spring marks a shift in purpose – from shelter to nursery. Young tortoises hatch later in summer with soft shells and face high predation. They often dig shallow starter burrows and hide beneath grasses or shrubs. Spotting one is a rare treat and a reminder of how fragile their future can be. Watch for their smaller burrows along sandy trails like the Van Fleet Trail. Aerial Nurseries and Night Sounds By May, birds of all kinds — from mockingbirds to wading birds to owls — have been busy fledging their young for weeks. You may still spot a fluffy, awkward chick perched low on a branch or hopping along the ground, seemingly alone. But don’t worry, this is a normal stage in their development and the parents are likely watching and waiting for you to leave. Unless the chick is in immediate danger (like on a road or being stalked by a predator), it’s best to leave it where it is. Avoid “kidnapping” baby wildlife – leave them where they are. This is also the time of year when young bald eagles, “teenagers” if you will, begin venturing out in search of their own territory. You might witness dramatic aerial displays as juvenile eagles test their skills and challenge boundaries, sometimes sparring with mature adults already defending a nesting area. These encounters are part of how young eagles learn to navigate the social and spatial dynamics of their species. Warmer evenings bring an abundance of flying insects and bats take full advantage – foraging intensively to support the energy demands of nursing mothers. Spring marks the start of maternity season, when female bats gather in nursery colonies to give birth and raise their pups. These colonies are often tucked away in tree hollows, old buildings, or even behind loose bark. While pups remain in the roost, mothers make nightly foraging trips – eating thousands of insects to sustain themselves and their growing young. Also listen for Florida’s cicadas, whose buzzing calls usually begin in March and April. Their rhythmic drone fills the evening air and signals the richness of wildlife activity at dusk. While many people find them annoying or even gross, they are a valuable protein source in our ecosystems for many species. Get Outside Before the Heat Takes Hold As our snowbirding neighbors seek respite up north, we Floridians know that summer is still only preheating. May offers a golden window to explore Polk County’s parks and wild places before the summer heat sets in. Whether walking at Circle B, hiking Lake Kissimmee trails, or birdwatching in your backyard, this is a prime time to connect with nature. Be Prepared When You Go: · Explore in the morning when wildlife is active and temperatures are cooler · Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) · Stay hydrated: always carry more water than you think you’ll need · Check the weather before you head out, and watch for fast-moving afternoon storms · Leave no trace: stash your trash (in a trashcan) and stick to the trails If you’re curious to learn more or want help identifying what you see outdoors, contact the UF/IFAS Extension Office in Bartow. This is also a prime time to add some wildlife habitat to your yard. Our team can help you deepen your knowledge of Florida’s wildlife and their preferences.

Having survived the implosion of the Florida Boom in 1926, Florida was well on its way to recovery when the factors of the Great Depression ushered in the 1930s. While Florida was certainly affected by the economic downturn — tourism had fallen from three million annual visitors to one million (143 million in 2024), other areas of the economy such as citrus, phosphate, and cattle, were more resilient. Defying those odds, Winter Haven would see its citrus industry continue to grow and celebrate the Florida Orange Festival while moving it to a home on Third Street, NW at Lake Silver. In addition, the Philadelphia Phillies baseball team would Spring Train here for most of the decade in a facility located where the Blue Devil football field is today. What’s more, with the Depression looming, in 1930 the town would welcome the Winter Haven Herald, a new weekly newspaper published by George and Josephine Burr. Mrs. Burr is remembered as the author of “The History of Winter Haven” published in 1974. However, two Haven ventures from the 1930s would forever change our community, state and beyond. This month we review the first. This storefront on 4th St. NW is actually a model of the first Publix Food Store that was presented to Jenkins on the occasion of opening the 100th Store at SE Plaza in Winter Haven. There are no known photographs of the first store. GEORGE WASHINGTON JENKINS: GROCERY GENIUS More than 94 years ago, September 6, 1930, a young man – just 22 years old — stepped out on the sidewalk along Fourth Street, NW in Winter Haven and swept up a sparkling clean entrance to his brand-new Publix Food Store. The building wasn’t new, but George Jenkins and Publix were. Just five years before, he had traveled from Atlanta to Florida with just nine dollars in his pocket – planning to seek his fortune during the Florida land boom. Jenkins was convinced that in short order, he would return to Atlanta and pursue his dream of an electrical engineering degree at Georgia Tech. (He was eighteen at the time and traveled with his parents’ permission.) He had planned to meet his sister in Gainesville, but they passed in transit, she was going to Atlanta. He ended up in Tampa near the river, sleeping with the homeless – his nine dollars wrapped in his sock. The next morning he looked up a friend who invited him to spend the week. Young George had begun to feel like his trip was becoming a “youthful lark,” and he planned to soon hitchhike back to Atlanta. Jenkins and his friends took a Sunday drive, stopping in to visit a man who owned fourteen Florida Piggly Wiggly grocery stores. (George had worked for the company a brief six months in Atlanta.) He took a job to work until he could return to Atlanta and Georgia Tech in September. That was June of 1925 … in two months he was promoted to manager of a small store. By March of 1926 the store was doing five times the volume as when Jenkins took over. That was remarkable growth, but he was quick to acknowledge that March was high season for winter visitors in St. Petersburg where the store was located. The Piggly Wiggly owner was so pleased he transferred Jenkins to his largest store – in Winter Haven. He was making $45 a week plus one quarter of one percent of gross sales. He made plans to buy a car and grow what would become his trademark mustache. Jenkins was still drawn to return to Georgia Tech and the electrical engineering degree. A return visit in late 1926 found things not to be what he expected, and Tech grads were having trouble finding work. He returned to Winter Haven having decided the food business was his business. He would manage the Winter Haven Piggly Wiggly from 1926 to 1930 when the owner of the Florida stores sold to a man in Atlanta. George felt certain the new owner would come to introduce himself. When that didn’t happen, Jenkins traveled to Atlanta to discuss his ideas for modernizing the store’s operations. Told the owner was in conference and didn’t have time to see him, George overheard him discussing his golf game. Angered to be treated with so little regard, he returned to Florida and “turned in his apron.” Efforts to entice him to stay failed. Jenkins then rented the store immediately adjacent to the Piggly Wiggly, announcing he would open his own grocery market there. It was then that he made two important decisions that became Publix hallmarks. If he became a successful grocer, he would travel to visit all his stores, and he would have an opendoor policy for any employee wanting to see him. George Jenkins formed Publix Food Stores, Inc. (taking the name from a chain of movie theaters) with 30 shares of stock outstanding. He purchased 13. His meat market man and assistant manager (both following from Piggly Wiggly) each bought four. Four other shares were sold to friends and five were left unpurchased. Valued at $100 each, the stock had raised $2500 with which to open his store. By the time he paid the rent and bought the necessary equipment, his capital was nearly depleted. He still needed to stock the store! This is the first Publix Store that Jenkins built from his own design. Featuring automatic opening doors, frozen food cases, wide aisles and more, he viewed his “grocery palace” as the future of the industry. He changed the name to Publix Supermarket with its opening. He contacted J. A. Powell who owned the Lakeland Grocery Company and small chain of All American grocery stores. Powell agreed to sell him groceries from his wholesale warehouse. The total came to $1300 – far more than Jenkins had remaining. Powell had agreed to give him a little time to come up with the money, but on the Thursday before the store was to open Friday, Powell asked Jenkins to put a check for $1000 in the mail. George offered that “he didn’t have quite that much money” but Powell told him not to worry. By the time he could deposit the check and it cleared Jenkins’ bank, the store would have its first weekend sales to deposit. Jenkins, speaking with Pat Watters in the book “Fifty Years of Shopping Pleasure,” recalls that he lost his voice. (Among the first weekend sales promotions was an offer for “$2.50 in gold to the first 10 customers who spent $10.”) Ultimately, sales for that first weekend were $1600. And within one year the Piggly Wiggly store had closed its doors. For the next fifteen years, Winter Haven was home to the only Publix Food Store. The gleaming Publix you know today – wide aisles, automatic-opening doors, air conditioning, refrigerated food cases – are more or less what you have come to expect from Publix. But in 1940, in Winter Haven, Florida and nearly all of the rest of the U.S., they were unheard of. As the 1930s drew to a close George Jenkins had been gathering data from his little food store on Central Park and around the country as well. The term “supermarket” was coming into use, though in Jenkins’ estimation early attempts at large stores with low overhead were garish and uninviting. George had bought a small orange grove during the depression, and he decided to mortgage that to build his dream store. In speaking with his bankers they made fun of “George’s marble, glass and stucco food palace.” He persisted and prevailed. He mortgaged the grove for $15,000. The building would cost $25,000; it sat on a $10,000 lot and would require an additional $35,000 in equipment and inventory. He designed much of the equipment himself, as up until that time it had not existed in small neighborhood groceries. The store would ultimately feature air conditioning, fluorescent lights, open dairy cases and wide aisles, among other features. Jenkins even designed a drinking fountain with the copper supply tube running through one of the grocery coolers so his customers would enjoy “cold” water. But he would discover the ultimate amenity on a trip to New York where a chance encounter with electric-eye doors at Pennsylvania Station led him to inquire of the manufacturer, “Could these be made for a grocery store?” Assured they could, he was quoted a price of $1,300 which he thought was a bit high. He wrestled with the decision but ultimately decided that whether the customer was carrying groceries or personal items – not having to “push through the door” would be a big plus. And a plus it was as Jenkins would relate, “People came from miles around just to see and experience the electric-eye doors in the new store." Collage of the Publix evolution from the cover of their 1996 annual report. The story is told that the night before his “palace” opened, he sat on the steps of the neighboring Baptist Church and thought, “There will never be a finer grocery store.” There wasn’t – until Publix outgrew that location, and the company built new, bigger and better stores, leading the way in shopping centers. By 1945 Jenkins would purchase a small chain of All American Stores from none other than J. A. Powell, the man who fronted him the groceries for opening day at his first little store. That $175,000 plunge brought Publix 19 stores Jenkins would describe as having “all the architectural charm of a shoe box.” But they came with a warehouse in Lakeland and George knew he would need a warehouse to grow. Publix was off and running to become “Where Shopping is a Pleasure.” Publix Super Markets presently operates 1,399 stores and employs more than 255,000 associates in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia and Kentucky. The company posted sales of $59 billion during 2024. Not bad for a young man of eighteen who arrived here with $9 dollars in his pocket. When Jenkins died in 1996, his wealth was estimated at $1 Billion. Congratulations to all Publix associates for 94 years of shopping pleasure. We are proud that it all started here in Winter Haven. Next Month: Richard “Dick” Pope Makes His Mark

For those who want to come out and support two local Smusicians with a string to pick, meet David Brimer and Marcus Brixa: the eponymous artists behind The Brimer & Brixa Duet. Though the two had often run within the same circles, the first time they played together was in 2023 at a serendipitous jam session at The Guitar Parlor in the Ghost Light Lounge at Theatre Winter Haven. It was harmony at first strum, as David says, “we realized we had very sympathetic, yet thoroughly opposed styles. Our influences came from the same eras and genres, so we talked the same language. Once we started to write together, it was off to the races!” That original concert is out on Spotify and iTunes under “Recorded Live at the Ghost Light Lounge David Brimer and Marcus Brixa” for those curious cats who want to hear where the magic all started. Photo by Chris Douglas Six months later, in November 2023, their debut album “Clay Pigeons” was released through Long House Recordings and is available on iTunes and Spotify. New fans just hitching onto the bandwagon (pun absolutely intended) should be ready for “folkjazzclassicalbluesypop,” in Marcus’ words, while David elucidated by saying, “the most important thing to know is that it’s totally acoustic and instrumental. It’s just two guys with a large array of vintage acoustic guitars playing engrossing, thematic, beautiful music they agonized over and are improvising within.” With inspirations from artists like Miles Davis, Chick Corea, Al Di Meola, Tony Rice, and Julian Lage, you’re sure to be in for a treat with every listen. The intricate melody and harmony lines throughout their songs are evidence of a great love of the instruments they play and technical knowledge with years of experience (multiple decades worth, in fact). When I asked the duo where their favorite performance venue was, the answer was a resounding “the Gram Parsons Derry Down!” With its open ceilings and wooden accents, this historic listening room has everything you need for an intimate concert experience. Brimer & Brixa will be returning there this month on May 2 to perform an album release concert for their second album, “Sandcastle Sazerac.” Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m., so make sure you get your tickets now before they sell out! Having talked with David and Marcus about their new album, and streaming “Clay Pigeons” while I cut out about 150 paper popsicles for craft time at the library, I might be just as excited about “Sandcastle Sazerac” as they are. (Okay… probably not, I doubt I’ll ever measure up to how excited artists get about their work, especially at the caliber that these two perform at.) Recording and producing this new album along with “Clay Pigeons” at Bartow’s Omnipop Recording Studio with Josh Miller, a lot of trust and history were created between the artists and the production team. David commented on the album as a whole, stating, “[e]very song on this album stands together as the best of the best of what Marcus and I can do as composers, performers, and improvisers.” While Marcus singled out “Marietta” and “Sepia” for their unique blending of the two guitars and playing styles the men share, making “the two guitars really come together like one big guitar.” It’s not all serious though. Marcus and David very clearly have fun together, and their ability to be silly and have a good time comes through clearly on “The Atlanta Suite,” a song inspired by the trip they took together to see one of their favorite artists. While recording, the second half of the song became more experimental, “very aggressive and bizarre, much like Atlanta traffic. We recorded the main part live together in one take and then started adding all kinds of weird noises to experiment a bit: scraping strings, bending notes, and such. While David was recording some weird sounds, he knocked on his guitar 3 times like it was a door and then whispered “Housekeeping” into the mic. I almost fell over laughing… we kept it, it’s on the track!” While recording and releasing “Clay Pigeons” only took about 6 months, “Sandcastle Sazerac” has been a longer labor of love. The more complex layering and bigger mix of ideas evident in the album is well worth the wait. Now that the music has been written, Brimer and Brixa are ready to take to the stage and tour around with the new tunes before focusing on recording or coming up with new music, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for venues near you! In a county where local artists and the arts are such a vibrant part of the community, many citizens might wonder how they can support the arts personally! Marcus and David gave me their takes on the best ways to support the arts in the community: (Marcus) “We have so many amazing musicians here in Polk County and it really is a privilege to be a part of such a vibrant music scene. We have great friends who make their living performing here in our county and their music is amazing. It needs to be heard so… get out there and hear it!” (David) - “They’re surrounded by a vibrant arts scene that would be the envy of any city. They can support by listening to original music and attending concerts of original material. They can patronize the arts the old fashioned way by purchasing physical art. Most importantly, they push their homegrown talent to do more.” Marcus had some words of advice for aspiring musicians, “practice a lot and try to find your voice.” David chimed in with a paradigm shifting, “there are MANY ways to make a good living in music that don’t involve being a rockstar. When one is totally open to opportunities, they are always busy.” So, come out to the Derry Down this month to celebrate what makes Polk County great, our artists and the vibrant community they inspire! David Brimer & Marcus Brixa Album Release Concert May 2, 7 p.m. Gram Parsons Derry Down 297 5th St NW, Winter Haven gpderrydown.com

Summer is just around the corner, and Polk County is bursting with incredible ways to keep your kids active, engaged, and making memories. Whether you’re looking for hands-on STEM adventures, splash-filled days, sports skills, theater thrills, or faith-based fun, there’s something for every family. This all-in-one guide is your go-to resource for planning a summer full of learning, laughter, and play—right here in your own backyard. ARTS THEATRE ACADEMY   Theatre Winter Haven  1230 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven  theatrewinterhaven.com/academy   (863) 294-7469  Musical theatre programs with instruction in acting, dancing, and stage performance.    AR WORKSHOP SUMMER CAMPS   5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd Suite 210, Winter Haven  arworkshop.com   (863) 347-4568  Hands-on art projects for teens and kids 6+ including wood signs, canvas crafts, and more.    ART CENTRIC STUDIO   1035 S Florida Ave, Lakeland  artcentricstudio.com/art-camps   info@artcentricstudio.com   Kids work with real artists in a light-filled studio to explore drawing, painting, and more.    SUMMER ART CAMP   Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art  800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland  agbmuseum.org/summercamp   (863) 688-7743  Certified art instructors guide children through studio time and outdoor inspiration walks.    MUSICAL THEATRE SUMMER CAMP   Broadway Beginnings   6929 Old Rd 37, Lakeland  broadwaybeginnings.com   Camps for ages 7–18 featuring masterclasses, Broadway guest workshops, and performances.    STRING ORCHESTRA CAMP    Florida Southern College  111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland  flsouthern.edu/events/summer-string-camp   (863) 680-4216  Camp for grades 7–12 featuring string ensemble practice and masterclasses.    STEAM/ACADEMIC ALL SAINTS SUMMER PALOOZA   5001 State Road 540 W, Winter Haven  allsaintsacademy.com   (863) 293-5980 x2313  More than 60 programs are offered—from art and music to sports and STEM.    POLK STATE KIDS AT COLLEGE   999 Avenue H NE, Winter Haven  3425 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland  polk.edu/kids-at-college   Courses in rocketry, 3D printing, coding, creative writing, and more for ages 5–13.    AEROSPACE CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE   4075 James C. Ray Dr, Lakeland  aceedu.org   (863) 644-2431  Aviation-based STEM camps include drone flying, flight simulators, weather science, and more.    BRICKS 4 KIDZ – LEGO® SUMMER CAMP   Dixieland Elementary School  416 Ariana St, Lakeland  facebook.com/Bricks4KidzPolk   Hands-on building, robotics, and engineering projects, and games with LEGO bricks.    EARLY CHILDHOOD LEARNING LAB SUMMER CAMP   Florida Southern College     1040 Frank Lloyd Wright Way, Lakeland  flsouthern.edu   (863) 680-4103  Ages 3–5 enjoy weekly “Animal Safari” themes with crafts, experiments, and outdoor play.    ROBERTS ACADEMY SUMMER READING CAMP   Florida Southern College     1140 Frank Lloyd Wright Way, Lakeland  (863) 680-4111  For struggling readers; includes Orton-Gillingham methods and STEAM enrichment.    LRC SUMMER PROGRAMS   Learning Resource Center of Polk County  1628 Florida Ave S, Lakeland  lrcpolk.com/summer-programs   (863) 688-9477  Academic enrichment from kindergarten readiness to ACT prep and coding workshops.    LEVELS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP   3330 Skyview Dr, Lakeland  levelsacademy.org   (813) 419-2938  Focus on creative thinking, community, and growth mindset for K–3 students.    MINDS IN MOTION   126 Horizon Court, Lakeland  mindsinmotionfl.com   (863) 647-0010  STEAM-based curriculum mixed with fitness, creative play, and computer learning for ages 5 -12.    SNAPOLOGY SUMMER CAMPS   Camps available in Lakeland and Winter Haven  snapology.com/florida-lakeland   (863) 888-2442  STEAM activities in coding, robotics, animation, and engineering using LEGO, K’nex, and technology for ages 3 –14.  SPORTS SPIRIT GYMNASTICS CAMP   Spirit Gymnastics Sports Academy  2830 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven  spiritgymnasticsfl.com   (863) 875-4839  Gymnastics lessons mixed with arts & crafts, movies, and fun games.    GALINDO TENNIS INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS   Beerman Tennis Complex & Florida Southern College in Lakeland  galindotennis.com/summer-camp   (863) 733-5321  Tennis fundamentals and perceptual motor skills for ages 5–18.    KARATE BEYOND NINJA CAMP   4124 Florida Ave S, Lakeland  karatebeyond.com   (863) 354-5467  Martial arts plus themed games like NERF battles and ninja warrior challenges.    CHOE’S MARTIAL ARTS SUMMER CAMP   2136 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland  masterchoe.com/summer-camp   (863) 665-0488  Martial arts training and enrichment, plus field trips to Gandy Pool and more.    KINGS HAMMER SWAN CITY SOCCER CAMPS   Various Lakeland locations  kingshammer.com/swan-city   (859) 292-5425  Specialized soccer training for kids U5–U19 including striker, keeper, and skills school.    AH ELITE SOCCER CAMPS    Florida Southern College  111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland  ahelitesoccercamps.com   (863) 680-4258  Soccer training by age and skill level, including goalkeeper and striker development.    BRANDON GILES BASKETBALL SKILLS CAMP   Polk State College  999 Avenue H NE, Winter Haven  brandongilesskillscamps.com   Polk State College Head Men’s Basketball Coach Brandon Giles’ basketball skills camp emphasizes skill development and teamwork. O pen to both males and females, ages 5 - 18.    MIKE BLICHER BASKETBALL CAMPS    Santa Fe Catholic  3110 US-92 E, Lakeland  mikeblicherbasketball.com   (248) 877-2424  Co-ed basketball training for 3rd–8th grade of all skill levels.    NBC BASKETBALL CAMP    Southeastern University  1000 Longfellow Blvd, Lakeland  nbccamps.com   1-800-406-3926  Intensive skill training for boys (only) aged 11–18. They also offer an elite-level sleepover camp for boys ages 11 – 18.    NBC BASKETBALL CAMP   Florida Southern College  111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland  nbccamps.com   1-800-406-3926  Programs for all skill levels for boys and girls ages 11-16.    NBC VOLLEYBALL CAMP   Southeastern University   1000 Longfellow Blvd, Lakeland   nbccamps.com   1-800-406-3926  Girls ages 14–18 receive elite-level coaching in an immersive weekend camp.    NO LIMITS SPORTS CAMPS   Various Lakeland locations  nolimitssportsplex.com   (863) 205-6176  Multi-sport experience where kids choose daily between flag football, volleyball, soccer, and more.    OFF THE WALL ADVENTURES SCUBA CAMP   2055 Shepherd Rd, Lakeland  offthewalladventures.com/courses/scuba-camp   (863) 709-9253  Ages 10–17 earn scuba certification through pool and open-water dives.    FLORIDA BASS FISHING CAMP FOR KIDS    1505 Lake Shipp Dr, Winter Haven  bigbassguidefl.com  Focuses on boat safety and hands-on fishing techniques in a fun outdoor setting.     JUST PLAIN FUN! CAMP FIRE SUNSHINE CENTRAL FLORIDA   2600 Buckingham Ave, Lakeland  campfire-sunshine.org   (863) 688-5491  Youth camp with leadership-building, outdoor games, and social activities.    GOAL SEEKERS & EAGLES SUMMER CAMP   4777 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland  goalseekerseagles.com   (863) 619-5885  Christian-based camp that includes chapel, crafts, and weekly trips, for kids in K–5th grade.    SPCA FLORIDA CRITTER CAMP   5850 Brannen Rd S, Lakeland  spcaflorida.org/crittercamp   (863) 646-7722  Hands-on experience in animal care, rescue education, and games with cats & dogs for kids in grades 4 – 9.     TENOROC YOUTH CONSERVATION CENTER CAMP   3760 Tenoroc Mine Rd, Lakeland  fyccn.org   (863) 370-2181  Outdoor-focused camp offering archery, wildlife education, and fishing for kids in grades 3 – 9.     WONDERHERE SUMMER CAMP   5120 Colbert Rd, Lakeland  wonderhere.com   (863) 698-7782  Play-based, nature-connected camp with weekly themes, movie days, and animal interaction for ages 4 –12.    YMCA OF WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA CAMPS   YMCA Lakeland: 3620 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland  YMCA Fontaine Gills: 2125 Sleepy Hill Rd, Lakeland  YMCA Par 3: 1740 George Jenkins Blvd, Lakeland  ymcawcf.org   Themed weeks, outdoor play, and specialty tracks make YMCA camps a family favorite.    SUMMER FUN PROGRAM    Polk Christian Prep  3151 Hardin Combee Rd, Lakeland  (863) 845-3822   Affordable camps for ages 3–15 with weekly field trips, crafts, and water fun days.    NATURE DISCOVERY CAMP    Bok Tower Gardens  1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales  boktowergardens.org   (863) 676-1408  This is a half-day program designed for young explorers aged 7 to 9. The camp aims to foster a deep connection with nature through immersive experiences, hands-on activities, and nature play.    CAMP OFF THE CHAIN   Advent Health FieldHouse   210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven  fl-winterhaven.civicplus.com/273/Summer-Camp   Camps offer swimming, crafts, games, and field trips. The camp is only open to Winter Haven residents. Camps take place at select locations throughout Winter Haven.  VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL WINTER HAVEN BAPTIST CHURCH   1500 Dundee Rd., Winter Haven, FL 33884  Dates: June 6–8, 2025  whbc.info   (863) 294-6478    ST. JOHN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH   1800 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven  stjohnswh.com   (863) 324-6347  June 16–20 from 9 a.m. – noon. Ages: 3 years – 5th Grade.    CHURCH FOR THE ONE   777 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland  churchforthe.one   (863) 647-3518  June 2–5, from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.    LAKES CHURCH LAKELAND   1010 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland  golakeschurch.com   (863) 682-0163  June 2–6, 2025    FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH LAKELAND   175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland  fpclakeland.org   (863) 686-7187  June 9–13, 2025    GRACE CITY KIDS SUMMER CAMP   VBS at Grace City Church   1736 New Jersey Rd, Lakeland  gracecity.com/lkld   (863) 888-0933   June 16–20, 2025    FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH LAKELAND   72 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland  firstumc.org   (863) 686-3163   June 23–27, 2025  SLEEPAWAY CAMPS CAMP FRONTIER   22000 Highway 27, Lake Wales  campfrontier.com   1-888-977-CAMP (2267)  Known for high-energy, tech-free weeks of adventure, this traditional sleepaway camp includes team competitions, creative challenges, and outdoor activities in a safe and inclusive environment.    CIRCLE F DUDE RANCH CAMP   5301 Dude Ranch Rd, Lake Wales  circlefduderanchcamp.com   (863) 224-7113  Circle F offers an authentic ranch-style overnight camp experience with horseback riding, water sports, zip lines, and leadership programs for kids and teens.    CAMP LA LLANADA   2819 Tiger Lake Rd, Lake Wales  camplallanada.com   (305) 390-0476  A Spanish immersion experience for campers aged 7 to 16, emphasizing healthy competition, teamwork, and leadership through diverse activities like soccer, tubing, archery, arts, and dance.    LAKE AURORA CHRISTIAN CAMP   237 Golden Bough Rd, Lake Wales  lakeaurora.org   (863) 696-1102  A faith-based camp for grades 1–12, blending spiritual growth with outdoor fun like archery, canoeing, campfires, and ziplining on a scenic lakeside campus.  HIKING/BIKING TRAILS ALAFIA RIVER RESERVE    4872 Indian Oak Dr., Mulberry  polk-county.net   (863) 534-7377  A quiet spot for nature walks with rustic trails that wind through oak hammocks and wetlands.    CIRCLE B BAR RESERVE   4399 Winter Lake Rd., Lakeland  polk-county.net   (863) 668-4673  Famous for its wildlife viewing, this 1,267-acre preserve features well-maintained trails and a nature discovery center for kids.    COLT CREEK STATE PARK    16000 State Road 471, Lakeland  reserve.floridastateparks.org   (863) 815-6761  A hidden gem with over 15 miles of multi-use trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. There is a fee to enter.    FORT FRASER TRAIL    Trailhead at CR 540 & US 98, Lakeland  (863) 534-7377  A paved 7.75-mile path that’s stroller- and bike-friendly, connecting Lakeland and Bartow with scenic views along the way.      GATOR CREEK RESERVE    9725 US Highway 98 N, Lakeland  (863) 534-7377  Five miles of shaded hiking trails through pine flatwoods and swampy cypress—bring your binoculars for birding!    GENERAL JAMES A. VAN FLEET STATE TRAIL    Trailheads in Polk City, Green Pond, Bay Lake, and Mabel  (352) 394-3969  A 29-mile paved trail that is incredibly flat and quiet—ideal for long bike rides, walks, and spotting wildlife.    LAKE KISSIMMEE STATE PARK    14248 Camp Mack Rd., Lake Wales  (863) 696-1112  Enjoy over 13 miles of peaceful hiking trails with scenic lake views, plus camping and fishing options. There is a fee to enter.    LAKELAND HIGHLANDS SCRUB    6998 Lakeland Highlands Rd., Lakeland  (863) 534-7377  A unique natural area preserving endangered scrub habitat with short loop trails for a quick nature escape.    PANTHER POINT TRAIL     3115 Thornhill Rd., Winter Haven  (863) 534-7377  This hidden trail offers over 8 miles of lakeside hiking with plenty of wildlife photo opportunities along the way.  POOLS & SPLASH PADS “ROWDY” GAINES OLYMPIC POOL   210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven  Daily pool fees for residents and non-residents with an Aquatic Pass available for multiple visits. The pool is newly renovated, open year-round, and heated.     SPLASH PAD AT TRAILHEAD PARK   301 Avenue G NW, Winter Haven  A fun and free place for younger kids to run through water features and beat the heat!    GANDY POOL   404 Imperial Blvd, Lakeland  Located at Kelly Recreation Complex—great for lap swim and family time.     SIMPSON PARK POOL   1725 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Lakeland  Community pool offering swim hours and seasonal fun.    SPLASH PAD AT BARNETT FAMILY PARK   730 E Orange St, Lakeland  A favorite downtown destination for littles—free to the public and surrounded by picnic areas and playgrounds.    WILSON PARK   County Rd 547, Davenport  (863) 419-3300  Wilson Park features a splash pad, pavilions with picnic tables, benches, a large grassy area and public restrooms    LAKE EVA AQUATIC CENTER   321 S. 6th Street Haines City  (863) 421-3715  The Lake Eva Aquatic Center is expected to re-open June 1, 2025  Kid's Play Area: Young kids will love the wet/dry play area with a zero-depth entry lagoon pool, slide, splash pad, and water activities.    JANET J. SMITH AQUATIC FACILITY   hainescity.com   1900 N. 10th Street Haines City    MULBERRY   307 N.E. 10th Ave., Mulberry  (863)354-6560  No matter your child’s interest or your family’s summer schedule, there’s something in Polk County that’s just the right fit. From action-packed day camps to peaceful pool days and meaningful VBS weeks, this summer is full of opportunities to grow, explore, and create lasting memories together. So go ahead—circle those dates, pack the sunscreen, and get ready to dive into your best summer yet!

Polk County Moms is a local online resource dedicated to helping families in Polk County stay in the know and on the go. It provides a place for parents looking for kid-friendly events, local activities, and seasonal fun. We sat down with Maricarmen Chavez, AKA Polk County Moms, to find out what inspired her to start this local gem. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF! I was born in Nicaragua and came to the United States in 1979. My parents sought political asylum, and while it wasn’t granted, we were allowed to stay and work toward residency. We spent our early years in Mississippi and Louisiana, where my dad could continue practicing medicine. When I was nine, we moved to Florida. After a few years in Miami, my parents, always looking for better opportunities and a calmer lifestyle, moved us to Gainesville in 1987. I stayed there through college. As an adult, I moved back to Miami, figuring out life and what I wanted to do. I met my husband when I was 24, decided to study psychology, and earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. I absolutely loved the assessment, testing, and forensic sides of psychology and really focused on that. When we got married and I became pregnant, I stepped away from work due to medical complications. Turns out, I am not built to be a stay-at-home mom—I needed something to keep me busy. In 2014, I met Cynthia, who offered me a part-time job as her assistant running an online newsletter and social media pages. It was a perfect fit! I love learning new things, and diving into social media felt exciting. I’ve been doing it ever since. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START POLK COUNTY MOMS? In 2018, my husband was offered the Chief Auditor position at Center State Bank. He moved in with his parents in Winter Haven while I stayed behind to sell our properties. By July 2019, we were finally living in Champions Gate. Once I settled in, I realized it was hard to find things to do nearby for my child. Lakeland had a lot going on, but I wanted something closer to us. I decided to start my own social media page, using what I had learned in Miami. I launched Polk County Moms—and a week later, everything shut down due to COVID. Not exactly ideal when you’re building a page about family activities, but we pushed through! HOW MUCH HAS POLK COUNTY MOMS GROWN? When I first started, it was just me and a few other local accounts cheering each other on. I was creating content and hoping it would resonate with someone out there. Now, Polk County Moms has thousands of local followers across different platforms—which honestly blows my mind! It’s been amazing to see how much it’s grown. WHAT KIND OF FEEDBACK DO YOU GET FROM LOCAL FAMILIES? My followers are not shy—and I love it! They let me know what they like, what they don’t, and what they want more of. If there’s an event, they weren’t crazy about, they’ll tell me why and often give ideas for how it could be better next time. Even when the feedback isn’t glowing, I appreciate it because it helps me understand what families really want in our community. HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY TRENDS IN FAMILY ACTIVITIES? Events or activities that are a little out of the norm are always a huge hit. Families love alternative markets that have something for everyone—shopping, food, activities for the kids, maybe even live music for the adults. Themed events are super popular, too! Anything with a fun twist, like a night market, a seasonal festival, or a creative family outing, always gets a great response from local parents. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY-FRIENDLY SPOTS? The park in Downtown Auburndale is a favorite! It’s shaded (huge win in Florida), the playground is amazing, and there’s the Shake Shoppe right across the street for snacks and ice cream. It’s the perfect afternoon outing. WHAT HAS BEEN MOST REWARDING TO YOU? Helping parents find ways to spend time with their kids without spending a fortune has been the best part. Kids are expensive— and even a few hours out can add up fast. I love finding and sharing family-friendly and budget-friendly activities. It’s so rewarding when a parent, grandparent, or caregiver tells me they found something fun through my site! HAVE THERE BEEN ANY MEMORABLE MOMENTS? One of my favorite moments happened this past March at The Hunt is On event at St. John United Methodist Church in Winter Haven. A local mom came up, gave me a big hug, and thanked me for having free Easter Bunny pictures. It was such a simple thing, but it meant a lot to her—and honestly, moments like that are what make it all worth it. Little things can make a huge difference for families. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR PARENTS LOOKING TO GET MORE INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY? Start with what you’re passionate about! If you’re all about family-friendly events, show up to city meetings, get involved with local organizations, or find a group of like-minded people to create something new. If you love animals, there are tons of rescues and shelters that always need volunteers. The important thing is just to start somewhere—and you’ll find your community. Polk County Moms polkcountymoms.com IG & FB @polkcountymoms Photo by Amy Sexson

Most of us take for granted the privilege of being able to read. Did you know that an estimated 24% of adults living in Lakeland are functionally illiterate? That means nearly a quarter of the adults living in Polk County’s largest municipality can’t read above a 4th-grade English reading level. Roughly one in every four adults that you pass in the Swan City might not be able to read “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis in English. On an even more basic level, with that restricted level of reading, these folks might struggle to follow medical instructions, fill out an employment application, or even read to their children or grandchildren before bed. One local nonprofit has been doing its part to reduce that level of illiteracy for the last 30 years by partnering volunteers with residents wanting to improve their reading skills. READ Lakeland, Inc. uses a network of volunteers and a partnership with the Polk County Public School system to coach one-on-one lessons for adults struggling with basic reading and writing, as well as working with them in small groups to give them agency over their lives and decisions, sometimes even offering people a second chance at a good quality of life. The people that READ Lakeland serves are from every gender, anywhere between 18 and 80 years old, and from many different ethnic and cultural groups. READ Lakeland, Inc. is the only adult literacy program in Polk County and serves all of the county’s residents through its volunteer-led programs. Students of the nonprofit can expect to increase their reading, writing, basic math, and even life skills, like how to prepare for an interview or put together a resume. Beth Hesseltine, the director of READ Lakeland Inc., gave me the inside scoop on who they help and how. She shared that many of these adult learners originally struggled through the U.S. school system, potentially with an undiagnosed learning disability, a childhood illness, frequent moves between schools, or had to drop out of school before graduation to support themselves or family members. Still others are refugees and immigrants who are looking for a better quality of life for themselves and their families, and are only proficient in their first language. Any of those situations could have applied to anyone growing up if not for some privilege and good luck. More than 65 tutors help Polk County residents through the initiative, logging well over 5000 hours in the community over the course of a year! Through online tutoring, in-person sessions at local libraries, and group sessions to practice skills, these tutors help prepare their students for new and ever-growing successes in their lives. Students like Mayuri, who had to flee from Cuba because she and her husband couldn’t support their family in Cuba’s economy, or Naila, a woman who immigrated from Pakistan with her family. Hesseltine shared with me Naila’s story, as it’s one of her favorites. “When she came to READ Lakeland, Naila could read English, but her sheltered life and quiet personality left her with low-level skills in speaking or understanding spoken English. For almost two years a tutor worked with her on pronunciation and conversational English in everyday situations such as making purchases at a store or calling for a medical appointment. With her new-found confidence in speaking English, Naila submitted an application and interviewed for a paid position. She was successful in her goal of finding a job.” One of the most inspiring elements of READ Lakeland is its commitment to making the services free for the students and the families that they help. Because of that, as many people as possible can benefit without having to worry about how tutoring could impact what might already be a tight budget. Hesseltine shared that it costs the nonprofit “$500 to fund a single student for an entire year of learning. This includes all assessment testing, tutor training, books, electronic devices, subscriptions, and software/apps.” READ Lakeland has come up with an (evil?) genius way to raise funds to support their literacy program. Some might even say they’ve gone… hog wild! Kiss the Pig is their annual fundraiser, in which people raise money by selling tickets to the Kiss the Pig “Grand Smooch Finale,” or just by collecting donations from willing sponsors. During the event, guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wine or beer, live music and dancing, raffles with fun prizes, and of course, the main, or should I say hooved, event. The lucky (although depending on who you are, that term may be relative) person who raised the most money in the last month will get to smooch a real pig! I guess you could say that whoever it is needs to be a real ham. Whether you are donating because one of the fundraisers is your cousin who tattled on you for sneaking candy when you were both five and you’ve been waiting decades to get them back, or because you care deeply about the mission of READ Lakeland, every dollar helps another person live a better life, so in my book, that’s money well spent. Tickets for the event are $50 each, so bring your date for a night out on the town and support a cause that brings home the bacon! In a literacy study reported by the Literacy Project in July of 2024, the researchers found that the average American adult reads at a 7th to 8th grade level. However, over half (54%) of U.S. adults read below a 6th-grade level. This statistic truly shocked me, but not nearly as much as the majority of American adults who read no more than four books a year. FOUR. As someone who lets books whisk them off into a land of dragons and political intrigue any time I possibly can, I cannot fathom a life with only four books a year in it. Let’s all do our part to reduce illiteracy in Polk County, flex our reading muscles, and grant people the joy and freedom that being able to read easily permits. In addition, contributing money or time towards adult literacy initiatives has been shown to give back to the community far more than it takes. According to READ Lakeland’s promotional materials for Kiss the Pig “for every $1 donated to adult literacy $33 is returned to the community in lower healthcare costs, fewer public assistance expenditures, higher job productivity, lower crime rates, and higher academic achievement for children in families with adults who can read.” So, pick up a book and practice your reading and come out to support Kiss the Pig on May 8. As READ Lakeland’s Mission says, “when adults can read, families and communities thrive.” READ LAKELAND’S GRAND SMOOCH FINALE May 8, 5:30 p.m. Lakeland Country Club READ LAKELAND 1628 South Florida Avenue, Lakeland 863-802-1512 readlakeland.com

DEPOT 303 303 NW 1st Ave, Mulberry It’s an exciting time in Downtown Mulberry! The City of Mulberry has teamed up with Jonathan Bucklew of The Joinery fame to launch Depot 303, right across from the iconic Gem Theater. Think: bright, airy vibes and a seriously cool space with plenty of indoor seating—perfect for chilling out on those toasty Florida afternoons & evenings. We tried Tilaw (Filipino food), Pizza Odyssey (inventive & decadent), Fat Maggies, and Lings Dumplings (dumpling dough & fillings made inhouse). Everything was amazing, and we’re looking forward to coming back again and again. JERUSALEM MEDITERRANEAN MARKET 2068 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland Tucked away in Polk County is a hidden gem that has been serving the community with authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors for the past six years. Jerusalem Mediterranean Market is more than just a grocery store—it’s a complete sensory experience for anyone who loves bold spices, creamy dips, artisan breads, and Middle Eastern hospitality. Whether you’re preparing a mezze platter, searching for authentic Turkish coffee, or craving delicious hummus, this market offers everything—and more. We brought back hummus, baba ganoush, pita, cheese, olives, and dessert to create our bespoke mezze plate. You can find more pictures and information about these spots and more at goodfoodpolk.com or visit us on our socials.

Kids today are busy—school, sports, and afterschool activities--and are spending less time outdoors than ever before. According to research from the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), this disconnection from nature can impact both physical and mental well-being. One way to reintroduce youth to the natural world is through gardening and nature-based activities, and your local UF/IFAS Extension Service has a variety of resources to assist parents, caregivers, and teachers that would like to foster those connections.     Nature plays a vital role in the healthy development of children. Time spent outdoors can improve cognitive function, support emotional regulation, and promote physical activity. Activities that immerse children in natural settings—such as gardening—provide opportunities for discovery, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the environment.    Dr. Taylor Clem with UF/IFAS Extension notes that connecting youth to nature through gardening “fosters stewardship, teaches responsibility, and helps children form lasting relationships with the environment around them.” If you are a gardener, and feel that typical springtime lure to get outdoors, consider introducing your kids, grandkids, or neighbors to gardening and nature alongside you.     What are some ways that kids (and families!) can take advantage of nature and gardening in their own yards... and beyond? Here are a few ideas if you are just getting started.  ENJOY THE OUTDOORS AFTER SCHOOL: After a busy day in the classroom, kids can take advantage of just being outdoors. Find a seat (a chair, a hammock, or even a blanket in a shady spot) and read, listen to music, journal, or chat with a friend. Just being outdoors is good for you and a great way to reset after your day indoors. I’m pretty sure that homework done outside under a shady oak tree is a little more fun as well!  PLANT A GARDEN (OR EVEN JUST A SEED!): If gardening is your thing, or you just want to see if you can grow something, start with a seed! Head to your closest seed library, garden center, or find a friend with seeds and get growing. Flower seeds such as zinnias are an easy start. If you want to grow a vegetable, consider an herb such as rosemary that will thrive with little care. Simple acts of watering, mulching, and weeding are great for mental and physical time outdoors.  OBSERVE WILDLIFE: Take a walk around the yard, a local park, or a nature preserve and see what wildlife you can spot. Take some time to get close and look at butterflies, bees, small lizards, and birds. Can you identify them?   TAKE A HIKE (OR A WALK): Walking outdoors is great physical exercise, but can also help you relax and unwind, observe nature, and connect to others. Walk alone and appreciate the silence and listen for sounds of nature, walk with others and appreciate the time to connect. Walk your neighborhood and observe trees, plants, and the sounds of nature. Walk in a natural area and observe a different environment.   CREATE A GARDEN JOURNAL: Incorporating art and creativity into nature and gardening is obvious! Gardening and design are great ways to get creative juices flowing, and starting a garden journal can help kids learn to keep records, inspire creativity, plan garden spaces of their own, or simply use it as a personal journal to record thoughts and ideas. Utilize leaves, press flowers, or find other inspiration from nature to create a personalized garden journal.    Research shows that children who participate in gardening are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables, engage in physical activity, and experience reduced stress levels. Gardening also enhances fine motor skills and provides a therapeutic outlet for self-expression.    Engaging youth in gardening not only benefits them in the moment but also instills lifelong habits. When children understand where their food comes from, how ecosystems function, and the impact of their actions on the planet, they’re more likely to become environmentally conscious adults. Introducing a child to gardening can pave the way for a lifelong love of plants and inspire them to create and appreciate garden spaces.    Gardening is more than a hobby—it’s a gateway to growth, discovery, and environmental stewardship. By planting the seeds of curiosity, we can help the next generation develop strong, lasting connections with the natural world.    If you are interested in getting your children active in a nature program this summer, consider signing up for Nature Explorers Summer Camp.  This weeklong camp is offered by UF/IFAS Extension at Circle B Bar Reserve and combines nature, gardening, art, and exploration. Register here:   hnatureexplorerspolk.4honline.com . Additionally, we have family-focused gardening and nature classes year-round. Find out more here: polkcountyextension.eventbrite.com .     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 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.

CLUE: A WALKING MYSTERY   Through May 11, this interactive game takes place across multiple locations on the Riverwalk in downtown Tampa by the Straz. You will be greeted by the butler and then sent on your way to solve a mystery, gathering clues from popular Tampa sites and shops. strazcenter.org   BLUEFIN TUNA CUTTING DINNER   May 1, 7 p.m. Jackson's Bistro will fly in a 350 lb. Bluefin tuna overnight from Spain, where Executive Chef & sushi master Myro Yang will expertly carve Otoro, Chūtoro, and Akami to create a five-course dinner in front of you, for you. Reservations required.  jacksonsbistro.com     TAMPA RIVERFEST   May 2 from 5 – 10 p.m. and May 3 from 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. A free event along the Riverwalk. Includes Taste of Riverwalk, Taco Fest, a full concert series of regional and local bands, balloon glow at sunset, a wiener dog derby, a lantern parade, yoga, a water ski show, and a paddle invasion. thetampariverwalk.com   CYNTHIA ERIVO   May 2, 8 p.m. at the Mahaffey Theater. Cynthia Erivo starred in “Wicked “as Elphaba and has taken the world by storm. She is joined by The Florida Orchestra for an evening to give voice to music made famous by the greatest female singers of all time. themahaffey.com     BALCONY TO BACKSTAGE TOUR   May 3, 11:30 a.m. at the Tampa Theatre. Learn the Theatre’s secrets, stories, art, and architecture, and see the historic restoration efforts of this majestic movie palace. The 90-minute tour will kick off in the lobby and include a demonstration of the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. Purchase tickets in advance. tampatheatre.org     THE BUTTERFLY’S EVIL SPELL   May 7 – June 1 at the Shimberg Playhouse at the Straz. This play fuses live music, visual art, puppetry, and aerial and circus arts performed by Jobsite Theater. The mystically poetic world of beetles, fireflies, and other magical creatures is disrupted when a hypnotic, wounded butterfly enters their dewdrop paradise. strazcenter.org     GRAPHICSTUDIO OPEN HOUSE & SALE   May 10, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Hundreds of original, artist-signed, fine art prints and sculpture multiples will be on display and available for sale at discounted prices. All sales benefit Graphicstudio's continuing research and educational programming. Ira.usf.edu   FULL MOON PADDLE   May 10, 8 p.m. - 9:15 p.m. The Hillsborough River paddling trail provides an up-close look at amazing waterways and the urban downtown scene, starting from Armature Works and paddling out towards Tampa Bay. This is not for beginners. armatureworks.com     SURREAL NIGHT AT THE DALI   May 15, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. at The Dali in St. Pete. Enjoy a live DJ performance, surreal cocktails for purchase from Café Gala, entertainment, and activities on the ground floor. Admission to the permanent collection is available at a reduced price, half-off after 5 p.m. Purchase tickets in advance. thedali.org     TAMPA ROLLER DERBY    May 25, 7:30 p.m. at Skateworld Tampa. Celebrate 20 years of jams, hits, and derby domination! Concessions available, no outdoor food or beverages allowed, after party after the game at The Hub. Celebrate their Anniversary! Tamparollerderby.net

CYRANO DE BURGER SHACK   May 2 – 4 at Orlando Family Stage. This musical takes popular songs from the 80s to 2000s and mashes them up to tell the story of Cyrano, the king of the local Burger Shack who can’t seem to win the love of his best friend, Roxanne. orlandofamilystage.com     MILK RUN 5K   May 3, 7:30 a.m. Participants will run through the historic streets of downtown Orlando while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Milk District. The first 100 registered runners will receive a coupon for a free gallon of milk. Race proceeds will go to the Central Florida Chapter Second Harvest Food Bank. t hemilkdistrict.org     KENTUCKY DERBY DAY   May 3, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Baldwin Park. Come dressed in your finest Kentucky Derby fashion and enjoy shopping with local vendors, fun kids' Derby horse races, and watch the Derby at participating Baldwin Park hotspots. Plus, grab a pic at the photo station! More info on Facebook at First Fridays and More.     ROUTE 66   May 9 – June 8 at the Winter Park Playhouse. This musical celebration begins with the sounds of 1950s Chicago and travels along the "Main Street of America" to the California coast with surf music of the 1960s.  This revue features four men singing 34 of the greatest hits of the 20th century. winterparkplayhouse.org     KIDS NIGHT OUT   May 10, 6:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. at the Central Florida Zoo. It’s kids only (ages 5-12) on this special Kids Night Out. Everyone will get to meet cool animals up close and take a flashlight tour of the Zoo. They’ll play games, make a craft, and enjoy a snack, before you come back. Reserve in advance. centralfloridazoo.org     MOTHER’S DAY   May 11, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. at Leu Gardens. Moms enjoy free admission. Explore 50 acres of gardens and take a step back in time with a tour of the Historic Leu House Museum. Pack a picnic with your mom’s favorite treats and relax in the garden. leugardens.org     THE ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL   May 13 – 26 at various locations in Orlando. A multi-day, unjuried, uncensored performing arts festival featuring theatre, music, dance, comedy, and visual arts. Visual Fringe showcases local and national artists through gallery exhibits, live demos, and an art market. 100% of ticket sales & art purchases go directly to the artists. orlandofringe.org     EPIC UNIVERSE OPENS   May 22 at Universal Orlando. Step through amazing portals transporting you to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe and Celestial Park. Capacity is limited, purchase tickets in advance. universalorlando.com     ORLANDO CARNIVAL DOWNTOWN   May 23 – 25 at Camping World Stadium & Tinker Field. This colorful celebration of Caribbean culture features a parade of costumed performers, the rhythms of soca, reggae, and calypso music, and a diverse range of Caribbean food and crafts. Purchase tickets in advance. campingworldstadium.com     SCIENCE NIGHT LIVE   May 31, 8 p.m. at the Orlando Science Center. Everything you love about the Science Center – without the kids, with special programming designed just for adults. Featuring a new theme each time, no two Science Night Live events are the same!   Must be 21 years or older to attend. osc.org

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     WATERMELON FESTIVAL    May 3, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Florida Children’s Museum. Celebrate the rich tradition of watermelon farming in Central Florida, play for free at dozens of hands-on activities at Bonnet Springs Park’s Great Lawn, and cool off inside Florida Children’s Museum until 5 p.m. This event is a pay-what-you-can day. Explorefcm.org     BATTLE OF THE BANDS WINNERS   May 3, 6 p.m. at Bowen Yard in Winter Haven. 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     KISS THE PIG   May 8, 5:30 p.m. at the Lakeland Country Club. The winner of “The Grand Smooch” will be announced. 100% of votes and donations go to READ Lakeland to cover the costs associated with teaching our students to read. readlakeland.com/kissthepig     GIRLS NIGHT OUT   May 9, 5 – 9 p.m. in Downtown Lakeland. A fun night of shopping, music, and cocktails. Downtown retail shops will be open late with specials just for the evening. A VIP experience is available for an additional charge. downtownlkld.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     PROOF   May 14 & 15 at Lakeland Community Theatre. On the eve of her twenty-fifth birthday, Catherine, a troubled young woman, has spent years caring for her brilliant but unstable father, a famous mathematician. Now, following his death, she must deal with her own volatile emotions. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com