BEST REALTOR TONYA REGAN THE MCKEEL TEAM, KELLER WILLIAMS (863) 602-7742 FB: Tonya Regan Realtor IG @tonyaregan_realtorkw tonyaregan.kw.com Tonya Regan is a repeat winner in the Best Realtor category. Clients give Regan five stars for her responsiveness, negotiation skills, professionalism, communication, and market expertise. One client wrote of Regan in part, “Tonya was wonderful! We were moving from out of town to Lakeland and could not make visits in person due to our jobs. She FaceTimed us every house and gave us all the details of every home, including the smells, small details, both loving remarks and any issues she saw about all the homes while FaceTiming! She also sent us videos of the neighborhoods and looked around the area to really give us all the information we would normally get if we were in town. She was very honest about every house and felt as if we had a friend helping us find our home since we could not be there. [...]” 2nd: Christine Hubbert Team Hubbert, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate 3rd: Tammy Storie | Regal Real Estate BEST REALTY CO. KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY SMART 218 E Pine St. Lakeland (863) 577-1234 FB @kwlakeland IG @kwrealtysmart polk.yourkwoffice.com Keller Williams Realty Smart gets high marks from clients and agents across the board. Serving all of Central Florida, KW Realty Smart can help you buy or sell your residential and commercial property. Clients who use this realty company often remark on their professionalism, quality, responsiveness, and value. According to Keller Williams, “Our agents have local data and expert knowledge to guide you through the process of selling and buying.” 2nd PWH Realty 3rd: Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Fine Living BEST MORTGAGE BROKER LEGACY MUTUAL MORTGAGE 2020 Edgewood Dr. S, Lakeland (863) 937-8024 IG @homeloankeys FB: Legacy Mutual Mortgage Lakeland NMLS 278675 homeloankeys.com Legacy Mutual Mortgage has grown to be one of the largest private lenders in the state. They’ve gotten there by adhering to core values of doing the right thing, showing people they care, and doing their personal best. “What this translates to for Legacy employees, referral partners, and customers is a company that operates with the highest of integrity, respect, and a culture of customer service that is not only expected but required,” according to Legacy. One customer raves, “Your company walks you through a process that can be very daunting and overwhelming. You take the complex and make it simple. In addition, extra effort is made to make what seems like a dream at first become a reality. The promptness, professionalism, and personal contact with your lender was incredibly helpful. Thank you for my new home.” 2nd: The Mortgage Firm 3rd: Compass Mortgage LLC BEST AC REPAIR THE LAKELAND AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY 1220 George Jenkins Blvd, Lakeland 863-859-4090 FB: The Lakeland AC Company IG @lkldac thelakelandac.com It’s getting hot in here, so call Lakeland AC! Lakeland Air Conditioning Company is the coolest in the residential and commercial AC business. “Very professional and courteous. Did a great job, providing a portable air conditioning unit while I wait[ed] on my part from the factory. First time working with this company and this is the second visit and both times have been excellent. My go-to new company for any air conditioning needs,” writes one happy customer. They offer heating, air conditioning, indoor air quality, and maintenance plan services. “As a Florida-based company, we understand the importance of a functioning air conditioner, especially in the summertime. Knowing this, we actively stay on top of our jobs to ensure an efficient and professional experience from start to finish to get you back into a comfortable indoor environment.” 2nd: Payne Air Conditioning & Heating 3rd: Wards Air Conditioning BEST ELECTRICIAN LEWMAN ELECTRIC 2930 Barneys Pumps Pl, Lakeland (863) 398-0495 FB: Lewman Electric lewmanelectric.com We’re not shocked that Lewman Electric won – they’ve got watt you need! After all, they are the ‘bright’ choice! Lewman Electric is qualified for any residential, commercial, or industrial electrical job. Owner Ryan Lewman has years of experience as a master electrician and electrical contractor backing his work. Fully licensed and insured, Lewman serves Polk County, Hillsborough County, Orange County, and surrounding areas offering a host of services with no job being too small. One customer writes, “Lewman team showed up and was very professional and helpful. Stephen explained everything to me and responded to all of my questions. Also, the team was on-time and cared about the quality of work they were doing. To add, they cleaned up their work area. I was impressed.” 2nd: The LKLD Electrical Company 3rd: Cross Wired Electrical Services BEST PLUMBING CO. RICHARD C. FOX PLUMBING 1103 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 816-9414 FB @richardfoxplumbing richardfoxplumbing.com Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, Richard C. Fox Plumbing provides commercial and residential plumbing services. Plumbing problem in the middle of the night? They offer 24/7 emergency services too! Sewer camera, sewer jetting, water heater repair, plumbing repipes – no matter the service you need, Richard C. Fox Plumbing has a 100% satisfaction guarantee backed by a one-year warranty on all services and a manufacturer’s warranty on products. One customer wrote, “We had a leak situation after hours, and Fox Plumbing responded within a couple of hours. The plumber, Tommy, quickly found the problems and corrected them. The charge was reasonable for the after-hours work, and the problem was professionally resolved. We would definitely use Fox Plumping again.” 2nd: Stuart’s Plumbing 3rd: Curry & Co. Plumbing BEST ROOFING CO. RIG ROOFING OF LAKELAND 122 E Main St #173, Lakeland (863) 294-4477 FB @RIGroofing IG @rigroofing rigroofing.com Results. Integrity. Grounded. Your shingle best roofer is at it again! This locally owned, award-winning roofing contractor serves residential and commercial customers across Polk, Hillsborough, Orange, Lake, and Osceola counties. RIG offers free roof repair and replacement estimates. One RIG Roofing of Lakeland customer gave them five stars, saying, “RIG was a pleasure to work with from the quoting process to finished project. Javier did a great walking me through the quote and exactly what to expect. I highly recommend RIG Roofing to anyone needing roof repairs or a new roof.” 2nd: High Tower Roofing 3rd: Bob & Jerry’s Roofing Inc. BEST PATIO SCREENING CO. BOBBY KELTON ALUMINUM INC. (863) 287-9208 FB: Bobby Kelton Aluminum Inc. Bobby Kelton Aluminum customers have it made in the shade with their specialties in swimming pool enclosures, re-screens, screen rooms, carports, and seamless gutters. Whether your project is new construction or a repair, this licensed and insured screening company has you covered in Polk County and surrounding areas – and even offers free estimates. Clients rave that they arrive promptly, the crew is professional and fast with an eye for quality and the prices are very reasonable. 2nd: Pool Screens R Us 3rd: Hardy Screens LLC BEST TREE TRIMMING CO. THE TREE LADY COMPANY 2080 FL-540, Winter Haven (863) 293-5867 FB: The Tree Lady Company thetreeladycompany.com At The Tree Lady Company, their number one goal is tree preservation. “Just because your tree has decay does not mean it needs to be removed! Call us for an assessment.” The Tree Lady Company, open since 2002, provides tree care services, tree pruning services, tree removal services, and hazardous branch removal services throughout Polk County. Their company is led by a team of ISA Board Certified Arborists and a Board Certified Master Arborist who is TRAQ Qualified. One customer writes, “As a repeat customer, we value Kim’s professional opinion about taking proper care of our oak trees. The team is courteous, professional, and safety-conscious. Certificate of Insurance is provided with the quote. Our property was cleaned up and all debris taken away. We have been very happy with The Tree Lady Company.” 2nd: Monkey Business Tree & Crane Service 3rd: Tree Tune-ups BEST LAWN SERVICE OR LANDSCAPING EVOLVE CONTRACTING, INC. 897 E Lemon St, Bartow (863) 358-0056 FB: Evolve evolveyourlawn.com This family-owned business will evolve your lawn! Established in 2010, Evolve Contracting, Inc. offers various high-quality landscaping and hardscaping services, both residential and commercial. From landscape design and lighting to patio and driveway installation, customers can expect exceptional customer service to be a priority with Evolve. “Evolve has been taking care of my property’s landscaping since 2018. They are simply a great asset to have! They have helped me with weekly lawn cutting, mulching, planting, sod, sprinkler system, and tree cutting which has helped make our home one of the most beautiful properties in the neighborhood, [...]” writes one client in part. 2nd: LawnStarter 3rd: Franco’s Lawn & Landscaping Service BEST FENCING CO. MY FENCE COMPANY LLC 2810 Maine Ave, Lakeland (863) 440-0292 FB: MyFenceCo IG @myfenceco myfenceco.com From a small chain link perimeter fence around your home to a large aluminum swing gate at the entrance of your commercial business, My Fence Company can get the job done right! This locally-owned fencing installation team offers cost-efficient solutions for homes and businesses in Lakeland. Jessica writes, “It was a pleasure working with Mo and his team. We needed the fence ASAP due to having a toddler, and they were able to fit us in right away. They were also very patient with us since we had a few changes throughout the process, and communication was fantastic. The fence looks great, we have had many compliments. I highly recommend My Fence Company and will definitely work with them again!” 2nd: Williams Fence Co. 3rd: Danielle Fence & Outdoor Living BEST PEST CONTROL SUPERIOR SPRAY SERVICE, INC. 5611 Commercial Blvd, Winter Haven (833) 682-0700 FB: Superior Spray Service, Inc. IG @superior_spray_service superiorspray.com Being pestered at your home or business? You need Superior Spray Service! Superior, founded in 2003 by Kevin Blanks, offers a full range of indoor/outdoor pest control, including termite control, aquatic pest control, mosquito control, lawn/shrub/tree spraying, moss removal, and tree injections. One customer writes, “Superior Spray Service has consistently helped maintain our yard’s health, and keeps the things we don’t want to have in house out of it. They’re on time, reliable, and responsive. Highly recommend them. Our peace of mind from our subterranean termite system and the annual maintenance has been smooth since the day it was installed. We appreciate the entire team and the literal Superior Service they deliver.” 2nd: Massey Services Pest Control 3rd: Country Boy Pest Control LLC. BEST CONTRACTOR OR CONSTRUCTION CO. TRUE BUILDERS 2829 Badger Rd #19, Lakeland (863) 624-6123 FB: True Builders true-builders.com It’s true… you heard it here first – True Builders is the Best Of LKLD! Founded in 2010 by best friends Issac Turpin and Mark Lever, True Builders has served 50,000 customers across Central Florida. Today, the contractor has over 50 full-time employees and every piece of state-of-the-art equipment needed to handle the job. In 2017, True Builders made the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies and remains the leading restoration company for water damage, fire damage, and general remodeling services in Central Florida. Noting their professionalism, one customer writes, “The guys at True Builders did a great job repairing my home after my floor was damaged from water. Thank you True Builders.” 2nd: Waller Construction and Design Center 3rd: Strickland Construction, Inc. BEST POOL CONSTRUCTION GRIFFIN POOLS 3404 Reynolds Rd, Lakeland (863) 665-8080 FB: Griffin Pools By Bosse IG @griffinpoolsbosse griffinpools.com Family-owned since 1975, Griffin Pools is lauded for its stunning custom pools and unmatched customer service. The largest pool builder in Polk County, Griffin, has built over 7,000 pools. To ensure your pool is masterfully crafted, the team at Griffin only uses the highest-quality material and a highly experienced crew. “From helping you understand all of the design options to clearly communicating what you can expect during the construction process, we make sure that you are well-informed during each phase of the project.” A look through the gallery of this industry leader in new pool construction is sure to give you pool envy and new ideas for your summertime space. 2nd: Goldsmith Pools 3rd: Roden Pool Contracting, Inc. BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY THE ESTATES AT CARPENTERS 1001 Carpenters Way, Lakeland (877) 849-7815 FB: The Estates at Carpenters IG @theestatesatcarpenters estatesatcarpenters.com For over 30 years, the Estates At Carpenters have worked to create a meticulously designed environment for seniors to live carefree and thrive in their golden years. The Estates At Carpenters offers independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. Their resort-style amenities and activities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, heated swimming pool and spa, chef-prepared cuisine, a billiards room, an art studio, two libraries, a pet-friendly park, and cultural and recreational events. According to the Estates At Carpenters, “We are continually evolving in our senior care practices, life-enrichment programs, and health services offerings to meet changing needs and desires.” 2nd: Florida Presbyterian Homes 3rd: Beacon Terrace BEST HOTEL THE TERRACE HOTEL, TAPESTRY COLLECTION BY HILTON 329 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-0800 FB @TerraceHotel IG @terracehotellakeland terracehotel.com A historic boutique hotel overlooking Lake Mirror, the Terrace offers full-service luxury a short walk from Munn Park. Guests don’t have to roam far to grab a bite to eat with the on-site restaurant, The Terrace Grille, which boasts fresh, madefrom-scratch dishes and upscale dining space with floor-to-ceiling arched windows and black and white patterned floors. The Terrace Hotel offers 88 guest rooms and three meeting rooms, including the grand Cypress Ballroom, an ideal space for wedding and corporate events. One guest wrote, “This hotel is quite nice. Updated and the location is perfect if you are visiting Lakeland. We love to have the ability to walk to restaurants and go for walks to explore the city. This gives both.” 2nd: Staybridge Suites Lakeland West, an IHG Hotel 3rd: Home2 Suites by Hilton BEST APARTMENT COMMUNITY CARLTON ARMS OF NORTH LAKELAND 4500 Williamstown Blvd, Lakeland (863) 695-1544 FB: Carlton Arms of North Lakeland carltonarmsofnorthlakeland.com CARLTON ARMS OF SOUTH LAKELAND 1000 Carlton Arms Dr, Lakeland (863) 277-6902 FB: Carlton Arms of South Lakeland carltonarmsofsouthlakeland.com Carlton Arms has communities suitable for any lifestyle. Minutes from Lakeland Square Mall, Carlton Arms of North Lakeland is a lakefront property with 950 apartments surrounded by dreamy landscaping, with spacious interiors, and on-property activities, including tennis, basketball, and a fitness center. While Carlton Arms of South Lakeland sprawls across 137 wooded acres with six gleaming lakes and lighted fountains. These South Lakeland luxury apartments provide a dog park, freshwater fishing, a playground, and two swimming pools (one heated). Both locations offer various floor plans to accommodate residents’ needs. 2nd: Mirrorton Apartments 3rd: Preserve at Lakeland Hills BEST CLEANING CO. ONE CLEAN MOM CLEANING & ORGANIZATION (863) 670-9615 FB: One Clean Mom onecleanmom.com Need a refresh or a deep clean? One Clean Mom can help! After all, they did mop the floor with their competition again this year. According to this Lakeland-based cleaning and organization service, “Cleaning messes is our passion.” Owner Ashley Miller and her staff provide initial/ deep cleaning, standard clean, and move-in/move-out cleaning services. Additionally, One Clean Mom offers organizing services, with or without side-byside client help. “Ashley and her team were able to help us with a last-minute request around the holidays! She’s very responsive and takes great care in [...] providing quality service.” writes one squeaky-clean client. 2nd: Busy Bees Cleaning Service 3rd: The Cleaning Authority BEST POOL SERVICE CO. PURELY POOLS, INC. 863-738-9075 FB: Purely Pools purelypoolsinc.com Customers have purely sparkling pools thanks to Purely Pools. “Friendly. Dependable. Quality.” That’s their motto! Purely Pools was established by brothers-in-law Joel and Josh in 2014. Their services include weekly pool service (chemical balancing, PH balancing, tile scrub, deck cleaning, vacuum or sweep, netting, and filter cleaning), repairs, system changeovers, and cleanouts. Go from green to gleaming with Purely Pools, Inc.! 2nd: Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa 3rd: Aquatone Pool Care BEST STORAGE FACILITY EXTRA SPACE STORAGE Multiple Locations (877) 540-3698 FB @extraspace IG @extraspace extraspace.com If you’ve got a lot of stuff – you need a lot of space… Extra Space! Founded in 1977, Extra Space Storage is now the second-largest operator of self-storage facilities in the United States. Their facilities are equipped with video surveillance, personalized security codes to access gates and entry points, and are well-lit throughout the property so you can ensure your belongings stay safe. Extra Space Storage offers climate-controlled storage, vehicle storage, and more. Their online Storage Unit Size Guide can even help you determine what size storage unit would best fit your needs! 2nd: Life Storage 3rd: Storage King USA

BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE THE RED GERANIUM 605 E Central Ave, Winter Haven (863) 291-8585 FB @TheRedGeraniumwh IG @theredgeranium_wh What will you add to your wardrobe? The Red Geranium is an affordable boutique where you can shop ‘til you drop for gifts, decor, and more! This Winter Haven boutique specializes in home and garden decor, kitchen specialties, jewelry, and women’s clothing. One well-dressed customer wrote, “So many cute things to look at! I was visiting from out of state and love exploring shops like this! Perfect place to find a nice gift or treat yourself.” They’re the Best Clothing Boutique, so you can be the best-dressed shopping at The Red Geranium! 2nd: (tie) Island Dreaming Boutique 2nd: (tie) Seven Anchors Co. 3rd: 417 Boutique by Cate Editor’s Pick: Island Dreaming Boutique BEST GIFT SHOP HAVEN LOCAL SHOP 329 W Central Ave, Winter Haven (863) 887-6624 FB: Haven Local Shop IG: havenlocalshop This quaint boutique off Central Avenue in Downtown Winter Haven features classic and unique gifts. A new kid on the block, Haven Local Shop was started by Lynsey and Jon Lane of Haven Coffee Roasters. The shop carries everything from jewelry and home decor to locally made goods from brands like Rafa Natural, East of These, and Pretty Odd Flower Cart. One customer raved, “This shop is so cute! Very unique gifts and souvenirs and many are locally made. Loved buying things from town that go back to support the residents in Polk County! Such a great addition to downtown.” 2nd: The Red Geranium 3rd: Amy’s Gifts and Party Planning Editor’s Pick: The Hippie Suitcase BEST JEWELER GRINER’S JEWELERS 195 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven (863) 293-0151 FB: Griner’s Jewelers grinersjewelers.com This downtown jewelry institution has been making Winter Haven sparkle since 1948. Griner’s Jewelers offers an extensive inventory of loose diamonds, colored stones, and finished jewelry. They are an authorized retailer for Lafonn, Gottlieb & Sons, Simon G, Jabel, Supreme, Cyma Watch, Chad Allison, Peter Storm, Wright & Lato, Mark Gronlund, and Asba & Dangler Cultured Pearls. One Griner’s Jewelers client writes, “I have been doing business with Griner’s for the past few years. They are the type of family-owned place that remembers your face, name, and what you’ve bought there before. I have purchased new jewelry and had repairs done. Their work and inventory are high quality. Highly recommended!” 2nd: Tally-Ho Jewelers 3rd: J.C. Jewelers BEST ANTIQUE STORE TREASURE HOUSE ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES 232 6th St NW, Winter Haven (863) 875-7921 FB @treasurehousetwo treasurehouseone.wixsite.com/treasurehouseantique One man’s antiques are another man’s treasure! Treasure House Antiques & Collectibles is an over 10,000 square foot antique mall that has been open for over twenty years. They feature an ever-changing inventory of hand-selected clothing, furniture, and home goods, including second-hand items from top brands and manufacturers at reasonable prices. One five-star review for Treasure House Antiques & Collectibles reads, “Such a fun place to explore! So many eclectic items to choose from! Prices were reasonable also. Staff [are] friendly and helpful. We definitely will be back!” 2nd: Sherman’s Antiques 3rd: The Barn Antiques BEST THRIFT STORE TOP BUTTONS BOUTIQUE 226 W Central Ave, Winter Haven (Other locations in Bartow, Lakeland, and St. Pete) (863) 229-5158 FB @TopButtons IG @topbuttons topbuttons.org Patrons can shop ‘til they drop at this repeat Best Thrift Store – and it’s all for a good cause. Top Buttons offers new and gently used thrift items at affordable prices so you can do high-end shopping without the high-end price tag. This faith-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, charitable, and educational organization offers online platforms, educational events, clothing boutiques, and programs for teens in need, aiming to empower young women by providing the resources they need. 2nd: St. John’s Thrift Store For Missions 3rd: The Hippie Suitcase BEST PAWN SHOP TRADER’S PAWNSHOP 2880 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven (863) 967-3933 FB: Traders Pawn traderspawnshop.com Trader’s Pawnshop is the self-proclaimed largest pawn shop in Central Florida and a great shop for tools, gold, electronics, and more. Trader’s has been in the pawn game for over 43 years, providing Polk County with excellent service and pre-used merchandise. They’re now doing online jewelry sales, so you can shop for bling wherever you are! Check their online catalog for new pieces on the regular. One customer notes, “Rodney and his crew are awesome. I love coming here. They are patient, informative and treat you like family whether you buy something or not. They truly take care of your needs. You have a customer for life!” 2nd: GC Pawn 3rd: Gold Star Pawn & Gun BEST FURNITURE STORE BADCOCK HOME FURNITURE & MORE 1399 6th St NW, Winter Haven Multiple locations in Polk County (863) 251-2039 FB @badcockfurniture IG @badcockfurniture badcock.com Find furniture you’ll love for every room in the house at Badcock Home Furniture &more! Looking to ditch your saggy sofa for a new one? Check out Badcock’s selection of living room, dining room, and bedroom furniture, along with mattresses, appliances, electronics, and more. They even have financing options with affordable payment plans. Want a visual of what that new bedroom set might look like in your home? Badcock’s website offers a Room Planner where you first select the room that fits your home, style the space using the hundreds of Badcock items to choose from, and shop those items by checking out online or save it for an in-store purchase. 2nd: Claussen’s Fine Furniture 3rd: Brooks Furniture & Mattress Store BEST WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET VENDOR MORENA’S CAKES & MORE BAKERY Inside The Hippie Suitcase at 300 1st St. S, Winter Haven (561) 729-1764 FB: Morena’s Cakes & More Bakery Cafe, LLC (Morena) IG @morenascakesandmore morenas-cake-and-more.business.site This Winter Haven Farmers Market mainstay offers tasty baked goods, Dominican-Cuban Picaderas, and fresh empanadas. There’s always a line at this tent, with guests buying up the freshly made breakfast empanadas. According to the ohso-sweet owner, “I’m truly passionate about taste and quality, and I am a true believer that food is more than food. Food is all about memories, and how it can take you back to the sweetest place. Baking has really allowed my artistic side to flourish, and I have been able to apply my passion for cooking and baking, into building something that I truly adore.” One five-star review reads in part, “Polk County’s #1 in my opinion! I haven’t tried anything that I don’t love! Her cookies, cakes, and pastries are like no other I’ve ever tried. [...]” 2nd: Baxter’s Quality Meats & Fine Seafood 3rd: (tie) Bandidas 3rd: (tie) Aqua Organics BEST NEW RETAIL BUSINESS SEVEN ANCHORS CO. 219 3rd St SW, Winter Haven (863) 333-9651 FB: Seven Anchors Co. IG: seven_anchors_ Customers are crazy for Seven Anchors Co.! This 3rd Street shop offers a selection of men’s and women’s casual wear and surf-style apparel. Patrons laud Seven Anchors Co. for their extensive selection and helpful customer service. One customer raves, “Had an amazing selection of clothes there for men and women. Super friendly staff. Clothes were super high quality and [were] worth every penny. I will be sure to come back and shop again.” 2nd: (tie) Island Dreaming Boutique 2nd: (tie) Haven Local Shop 3rd: The Hippie Suitcase BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE ISLAND DREAMING BOUTIQUE 34 3rd St SW, Winter Haven (863) 268-8734 FB: Island dreaming by Selina Gaudette IG @islanddreamingbysg islanddreamingsg.com This Winter Haven lifestyle boutique has what you need for girls night, date night, or any night! Stylish dresses, tops, jewelry, and accessories line the shelves of this coastal closet. They have one thing you can’t buy, though – fantastic customer service. Patrons rave about owner Salena Gaudette for being helpful and knowledgeable when assisting customers in picking the perfect outfit. One customer recommended Island Dreaming Boutique, saying, “This beautiful shop has such cute clothes. Shopping there is special. Selina is very personable, and great at assisting with choices and sizing! They also have an awesome gift selection.” 2nd: Seven Anchors Co. 3rd: The Red Geranium Editor’s Pick: The Potting Bench

THE MORSE MUSEUM The Morse Museum houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848–1933), including jewelry, pottery, paintings, art glass, leaded-glass lamps, and windows; his chapel interior from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago; and art and objects from Laurelton Hall. morsemuseum.org BEER ‘MERICA May 18, 3 – 6 pm. Featuring 100 different craft brews, seltzers, and more to sample from. Lakeside in the park at Ivanhoe Village, you’ll love the live music, food trucks, game zone, and more! Dog-friendly, 21+, VIP available. Purchase tickets online. beermericaorlando.com KAYAKING Kayak in a clear kayak through Emerald Cut starting from Kings Landing with a relaxing drift back to the launch site on crystal clear water. Go through the protected waters where you might see fish, turtles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. All skill levels, book online. getupandgokayaking.com MOTHER’S DAY May 11, 9 am – 5 pm at Leu Gardens. Enjoy this special day with your mom in the beautiful 50-acre gardens. Explore the amazing art of Alex Heveri’s Glass in Flight 2, an outdoor exhibit of larger-than-life flying insects and birds. Moms receive free admission. leugardens.org ALWAYS... PATSY CLINE Through May 19 at the Garden Theatre in Winter Garden. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in l961 and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death. gardentheatre.org SHREK May 9, 8 pm at Central Park in Winter Park. This movie is free and open to the public. This film is presented with open captions. Bring a blanket, picnic or snacks, and enjoy a beautiful night out. enzian.org SHOP, DINE, & STROLL May 4, all day in historic downtown Winter Garden. This day features live entertainment, a downtownwide Raffle “May”nia, unique dining & shopping options, blooming spring scenery, and so much more. cwgdn.com MILK MART’S BIRTHDAY BASH May 26, noon – 6 pm at The Nook on Robinson at 2432 E Robinson St. in Orlando. Shop a market full of handmade and local goods, food trucks, enjoy music, and fun to celebrate 8 years of incredible markets. milkmartorlando.com STAR WARS NIGHT May 4 with Orlando City and May 5 with Orlando Pride. Watch professional soccer on Star Wars weekend, complete with costumed characters, themed merchandise, and more! Purchase tickets for either game at orlandocitysc.com.

CITYWORKSXPO May 9 & 10 at the Ritz Theatre. This is a gathering focused on sharing knowledge from around the country to build stronger communities here. Attendees will be immersed in thought-provoking presentations, performances, and engaging dialogue. At night, network at high-energy gatherings. cityworksxpofl.com NESTBOX BUILDING WORKSHOP May 22, 5:30 pm at 1702 S Holland Pkwy in Bartow. Join UF/IFAS Extension’s Natural Resources Agent, Shannon, to learn about cavity nesting birds. Participants will build an owl house or duck box to install at home. Register & find more info on FB @PolkExtension. PACA ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING May 7, 6 pm at the Florida Children’s Museum. The Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance Executive Director, Daryl Ward, will share updated info regarding PACA initiatives. This event is free for PACA members or anyone wishing to join. Registration is required on eventbrite at Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance. LES DUDEK May 18, 7:30 pm at Gram Parsons Derry Down. Recording artist, Les Dudek, is known in the music world as a guitar legend whose contributions have influenced the history of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Les Dudek is best remembered for his radio hits, “Old Judge Jones,” and “Deja-Vu.” Purchase tickets at gpderrydown.com. AN EVENING WITH MATT VENUTI May 2, 7 – 9 pm at Bok Tower Gardens. Matt Venuti is an awardwinning multi-instrumentalist composer/performer and music video artist who is known for introducing rare and expressive acoustic and electronic instruments to the world through his concerts and videos. boktowergardens.org OLIVER! JR. May 17 – 19 at Theatre Winter Haven. Oliver, a malnourished orphan in a workhouse, becomes the neglected apprentice of an undertaker. Oliver escapes to London and finds acceptance amongst a group of petty thieves and pickpockets led by the elderly Fagin. theatrewinterhaven.com MAYFAIRE BY-THE-LAKE Mayfaire is a free, two-day juried fine art festival held in Downtown Lakeland on Lake Morton on May 11 & 12 from 9 am – 4 pm. Stroll through 145 artist booths plus enjoy a new Mayfaire Kid Zone, food vendors, performances, and a 50th Anniversary exhibition at the Polk Museum of Art! mayfairebythelake.org “SHE KNOWS WHERE SHE’S GOING” May 23, noon at Polk State College. Girls Inc. of Winter Haven will honor: Tiffani Gozdur – George Jenkins Award; Suzie Nelson – Julie Pope Award; Kris NewmanLake – Virginia Snively Award; Kim Hulverson – Ralph & Alice Thompson Award. Purchase tickets at girlsincwinterhaven.org, proceeds benefit Girls Inc. of Winter Haven. MOTHER’S DAY May 12. Don’t forget to make a reservation at one of our local restaurants for you and your mom! (or mom-like person in your life). Mother’s Day is the busiest day of the year for restaurants. Or visit one of our local boutiques and buy her something nice. RUN FOR THEIR LIVES 5K May 25, 7:30 am at Peterson Park in Lakeland. Runners will not only enjoy a chip-timed 5K race but will be saving lives with every step they take. Walkers, and leashed dogs are welcome. Proceeds benefit SPCA Florida. The course will run most of the 3 Parks Trail. spcaflorida.org

STAR WARS DAY CELEBRATION May 4 at Tampa Theatre. Watch the trilogy in one day. Star Wars: A New Hope (1977) at 1:15. The Empire Strikes Back (1980) at 4:30. Return of the Jedi (1983) at 7:45. Purchase tickets online. tampatheatre.org MARGARITA WARS May 17, 7 pm at the James Museum of Western Art in Downtown St. Pete. Sample margaritas created by the area’s best mixologists and try your hand at tipsy judging as you help award the best Plus, live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, and other fun surprises. margaritawarstampabay.com SHAMROCK DISTANCE CLASSIC May 4, 7 am at Fort De Soto Park. Half marathon, 10k, and 5k, or choose the Leprechaun Mile. All donations and a portion of the net proceeds will go to Tampa Bay Watch to help restore Tampa Bay. Shamrocks, craft beer, and live music at the awards ceremony. runsignup.com STUDIO 55 Every Sunday beginning May 12, 1 – 4 pm at the Tampa Museum of Art. Take the Mixed Media Collage eight-week course full of artistic experimentation, mixed techniques and embellishment for adults 55 and older. tampamuseum.org RIVERFEST May 3, 5 – 10 pm and May 4, 11 am – 10 pm along the Riverwalk and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. This is a free, family-friendly festival that includes Taste of Riverwalk, Taco Fest, hot air balloons & more. See a full concert series of local bands on the main stage. thetampariverwalk.com AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY May 10 – 18 by the Carrollwood Players. A vanished father. A pill-popping mother. Three sisters harboring shady little secrets. When the Weston family unexpectedly reunites after Dad disappears, their Oklahoman family homestead explodes. carrollwoodplayers.org TAMPA TARPONS May 7, 6:30 pm at the George Steinbrenner Field. Enjoy Tarpons Baseball with your favorite fourlegged friend during Tail Waggin’ Tuesday. $2 tickets (dogs & humans) & $2 select concession items through the 2nd inning. milb.com/tampa CUBAN SANDWICH FESTIVAL May 26, noon – 4 pm at Centennial Park in Ybor City. Enjoy live music, cultural entertainment, and the BEST Cuban Sandwiches in the world; featuring contestants and chefs from all over the world. Watch as they attempt to make a 350-foot sandwich. cubansandwichfestival.com DIANA ROSS May 9, 8 pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. The one-and-only Motown legend Diana Ross sings her countless chart-topping hits including “Stop! In the Name of Love,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” and “You Keep Me Hangin’ On.” rutheckerdhall.com CLUE May 28 – June 2 at the Straz Center. Based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, CLUE is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist. strazcenter.org

The Light in a Dark Place Lorree’s faith is a gleam of sunlight hitting the water and reflecting in a million directions. Bright enough to catch and hold your attention. Brilliant enough with its aqua echoes to make you want to go for a swim. There’s just something compelling about this woman. She threads wisdom and tenderness throughout each sentence, sewing together the narrative of her life – a tapestry of good times and hard ones. Her’s is the story of a life lived in quiet reverberation – resonance of grace and grace and grace. “I am a little nervous, but the humbleness that I have in my spirit for all that He’s done for me in 59 years. I have no one to praise and give the honor to but Him,” she said. A prayer and a song – that’s how Gospel Village resident Lorree began. Her eyes glinted like polished pearls as tears welled, and she sang softly, “He’s been my fourth man in the fire, time after time.” “I just wanted to put that in the atmosphere because that’s where I am right now,” she said of the hymn. She’d been up cooking the night before for a weekly feeding at church. If she was tired, it didn’t show. “The joy of doing that and seeing their expressions of thankfulness is just beyond words,” she said. Lorree grew up in North Carolina during the 1960s. Her first memories are of being on the swings, making up songs, and singing to God. “Good memories,” she said. Another good memory was at her father’s and uncle’s convenience store. She’d ask her Uncle Stanley for a Coca-Cola. She remembers the Coke-themed bottle opener on the wall. The top would pop off, “To hear the ‘chhhh’ and my daddy is standing on the corner with a cigar, half smoked.” The only girl of three children, Lorree was spoiled by her father, and she watched her mother with curious eyes. Her father was born in 1919, and her mother in 1929, “They were products of the Great Depression, so they both were very frugal,” she said. Lorree learned how to make jellies and jams and to can vegetables. Her neighbor across the street taught the little girl how to crochet, which she still does today. “That’s my glass of wine, once or twice a week,” she said. Her love of sewing stems from her mother, who made most of her clothes until high school. “The last thing she did make for me was my debutant gown.” It was made of white taffeta with a netted underskirt. It had lace and sparkles around the top with mid-length sleeves. Escorted by a cousin, Lorree was the belle of the ball, no doubt. During a Home Ec class in high school, Lorree remembers, with a smile, making a halter top that turned out too long on one side. “I heard many stories of my grandmother sewing by candlelight, her doing a lot of hand stitching,” Lorree said. Her grandmother made an apron out of old tobacco bags and twine, which she’d wear over one of her only two dresses working in the fields during the week. In 2018, Lorree was called to Florida with a group of people. “They were instruments for me to get out of that state.” She lived with several families, totaling five folks, in one mobile home. On Christmas Eve of the same year, they kicked Lorree out. With nowhere else to turn, she lived out of her SUV from December through April. “My grandmother was the only child out of three in the late 1800s that went to finishing school, and that was unheard of then. That was post-slavery. The values that she instilled in us were to be very independent. It was very difficult for me to let my family know that I lived in my vehicle.” “Fear was the first emotion I felt,” she said. “At that time, I lived in my vehicle, I felt that was pivotal because it showed me how to really trust God. I remember so many mornings I woke up singing the song “Hallelujah” because I knew he kept me safe. [...] I might hear something in my sleep, and I might open my eyes, and I would hear the peace of God saying, ‘It’s okay, I’ve got you.’” When her car broke down at the Lakeland Public Library, she caught the bus to the Talbot House. Her first night there she met two women who told her about Gospel Inc. and their women’s program, Repurpose Art Studio. Gospel Inc. is a Lakeland nonprofit that provides resources, fosters community, and helps find purposeful employment for homeless folks across the city. “The first morning I went there, Miss Connie said, ‘Lorree, you’re really serious about doing better.’ I said, ‘Yes, ma’am.’” Within that week, she was accepted into the Gospel Inc. sewing internship. It was a 16-week beginner’s course, at the end of which students received their own sewing machine. On Sundays, she would go home with one of the church moms and fix desserts to bring to the sewing program every Monday During the program, Lorree was hit by an SUV while crossing the street. After getting out of the hospital, she stayed with a church sister. Though she couldn’t finish the program because of the accident, Gospel Inc. still awarded her a KitchenAid mixer. “God worked it out,” she said. Post-accident, Lorree earned a dignified income working ten hours for Gospel Inc. each week. She worked mainly in the outreach center on Plum Street, writing ‘thank you’ cards, helping with payroll, miscellaneous office tasks, and daily devotionals. Eventually, Lorree got a spot at Gospel Village, a sustainable and affordable long-term housing community for the chronically homeless. On her first night in her own space, Lorree felt slightly nervous but excited. “Homelessness is like an oak tree. It has many, many branches and many, many roots. The branches we can see,” she said. Those could be mental, emotional, or physical issues. “As far out as the branches go, there are taproots that go out just as far under the ground.” That could be a trauma from childhood, loss of family, or a series of unforeseen events. Someone may not look clean and be carrying four or five bags, but “if you could see the heart of that person, it would really make this world different,” she said. Lorree says kindness to those who are currently without a place to live can look like asking if you can take them out for a meal or buying them a new pair of shoes. “I’ve had times in the last month that I see people on the bus, and I hear the Holy Spirit say, ‘Give them what you bought for yourself because you can make something when you get home.’” The Gospel Village resident has plenty of plans for the future. She’d like to get her driver’s license, get involved with the children’s ministry at church, and perfect her trade of sewing – venturing out into more clothing. But what does Lorree’s ideal life look like? “What it is now.” “I feel like that God puts us all on this Earth for a specific thing,” she said. “He means for us to use those [talents] to help one another but having Him at the center of everything. […] I am a part of light that’s in a dark place.” Speaking to the unhoused community, Lorree said, “Keep pushing forward. Change the people that you’re around. Make sure that they’re positive and that they want to do better for themselves. [...] I’m promising that it will not be easy — rest assured. But it is so worth it.” Photography by Amy Sexson

1 cup Licor 43 4 cups cold brew coffee ½ cup oat milk In a large jar or pitcher with a lid, add all ingredients and shake. Pour over ice, add an optional garnish of whipped cream. Please drink responsibly, ages 21+ only.

Mosquitoes are a familiar nuisance in Florida, heralding the warmer months with their unwelcome presence. Beyond their itchy bites, these insects play complex roles in our ecosystem and public health. This article delves into the life cycle of mosquitoes, their ecological impact, and practical tips for coexisting with them while minimizing their bothersome and sometimes dangerous impacts. THE ECOLOGICAL ROLE OF MOSQUITOES Despite their notoriety, mosquitoes serve vital functions in ecosystems. They act as pollinators and are a key food source for various animals, including fish, birds, and some bats. If you like to fish in Polk County’s many lakes, then you appreciate the important protein source provided to young sport fish by mosquito larvae. The male mosquitoes, which do not bite, primarily feed on plant nectar and can serve as important pollinator species. However, the female mosquitoes of certain species seek blood meals to support egg production. UNDERSTANDING MOSQUITOES: A PRIMER Mosquitoes, members of the insect family Culicidae, are true flies with a distinct life cycle that includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Of the roughly 90 mosquito species in Florida, they can be categorized into floodwater, standing water, and container mosquitoes based on their breeding habitats. Floodwater mosquitoes, for example, lay eggs in moist soil that must dry out completely, then they will hatch and emerge after the rainy season returns. This phenomenon can lead to massive emergences in March, April, or May – depending on the year. Standing water and container mosquitoes, on the other hand, lay eggs directly on water surfaces, with container mosquitoes adapting to breed in minuscule volumes of water, such as those found in bottle caps or tree cavities. Understanding where mosquitoes breed is critical to effective mosquito management and which actions you can take to reduce their numbers near your home! MOSQUITO CONTROL AND DISEASE PREVENTION When it comes to mosquito-borne disease, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are the mosquito species we are most concerned about. These containerbreeding species are found almost statewide and can spread diseases such as dengue, yellow-fever, zika, and chikungunya. Effective mosquito management is crucial for minimizing their impact on public health and your quality of life. Local mosquito control districts employ integrated mosquito management techniques, including setting traps to monitor populations and deploying environmentally-friendly larvicides. Once adult mosquitoes emerge from the water, they are a lot more challenging to manage due to their ability to fly. Container mosquitoes, like A. aegypti and A. albopictus, are thought to stay close to the area where they hatch – often travelling less than a quarter mile during their lifetime. This means that if you and your neighbors commit to dumping any containers that can catch water, weekly, throughout the mosquito season, you can drastically reduce the number of mosquitoes in the neighborhood. For areas where draining water isn’t feasible, like in a landscaping bed of bromeliads, consider using a granule product containing Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies israelensis) and sprinkling those granules into the pockets of water every 30 days. There are several brand names that use this natural mosquito larvicide. MYTH-BUSTING MOSQUITO MANAGEMENT Bug zappers, while satisfying to hear, do little to curb mosquito populations and they tend to kill more beneficial insects than mosquitoes. Similarly, plants marketed as mosquito repellents, such as those containing citronella, have limited effectiveness. These plants only release mosquito-repelling compounds when their leaves are crushed, and even then, the area of protection is minimal and fleeting. Eating garlic or taking vitamin B supplements has also been touted as a way to repel mosquitoes from the inside out, yet scientific evidence supporting these claims is scant. Sadly, bat houses do little to reduce mosquito populations as most bats prefer larger prey. Bats will eat some mosquitoes, but the majority of their diet is made up of moths, beetles, and flies. PERSONAL DEFENSE When it comes to personal protection, not all mosquito repellents are created equal. Mosquito repellents function by making humans less attractive to mosquitoes, essentially camouflaging us from their keen senses. It’s important to note that repellents do not harm mosquitoes; they deter them. The efficacy of a repellent is often measured by its Complete Protection Time (CPT), which indicates how long you can expect to be protected from bites after a single application. Research by the University of Florida has evaluated various repellents, finding that products containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus all offer effective protection. These ingredients vary in protection duration and concentration, allowing for choices tailored to individual needs and activity levels. To learn which product is best suited for the duration of your outdoor activities, based on University of Florida trials and research, consult this IFAS document: go.ufl.edu/mosquito-repellent or by scanning the QR Code. A UNIQUELY FLORIDA PROBLEM: SUNSCREEN FIRST? OR BUGSPRAY? When using mosquito repellent in conjunction with sunscreen, the order of application is crucial for effectiveness. The CDC advises applying sunscreen first, allowing it to absorb into the skin, followed by mosquito repellent. This sequence ensures optimal efficacy of both products. Importantly, products combining sunscreen and repellent are not recommended, as sunscreen requires more frequent application than repellent. Over-applying a combination product could lead to unnecessary exposure to repellent chemicals. MOSQUITO SEASON IS HERE As we navigate life in Florida alongside mosquitoes, understanding their behavior, ecological role, and how to mitigate their impacts is essential. Through community efforts and informed personal practices, we can coexist with these persistent insects while safeguarding our health and enjoying the beauty of our state. For more insights and resources on mosquito management, connect with Polk County Mosquito Control at their website, www.polk-county.net/services/mosquito-control/ or contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Office in Bartow.

Did you know that you can plant your vegetables and herbs alongside your ornamental perennials, shrubs, and trees? Most people think vegetable gardens, raised beds, and containers are the only places to grow edible plants. But vegetables and herbs can make great additions to the landscape without the expense or effort of a special place of their own. Adding edible plants to your ornamental landscape can enhance the yard in so many ways—visually with ornamental quality, fragrance from aromatic leaves and flowers, and seasonal food production. WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW TO START? Remember, as you select vegetables, fruits, and herbs for ornamental quality, stick to your overall design theme, follow the recommended Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles, and think about how you can eat from your landscape year-round. Many edible plants have a short growing span, so it is important to learn how to rotate edible plants for seasonality as well as design quality. Design is important in any landscape and edible plants can enhance design in many ways. Here are a few tips to getting started. 1. Select varieties that grow well in central Florida. Use the Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide and other local resources to find varieties that will grow locally. Know your hardiness zone and planting dates. Edible plants can be annuals, lasting only one growing season, perennials that span multiple seasons, or even long-lived shrubs and trees. 2. Group plants by their water needs. This is important in all landscapes to ensure that plants are getting what they need to be healthy and pest-free. Plants of all types should be grouped according to their water needs, light requirements, and maintenance needs. Select edible plants that match the site conditions where they will be planted to ensure success. For example: Rosemary is an herb that thrives in dry, well-drained soils. If you have a spot in the landscape that matches those conditions, rosemary will thrive! 3. Use support structures, containers, and hardscapes to add visual appeal. Many edible plants have an informal quality and at times could look a bit unruly. Consider using structures such as arbors, pergolas, containers, and even statuary to both support and contain your edible plants. This may also be necessary if you are growing vining plants. Small groupings of containers can add visual interest and may make it easier to grow and maintain some edible plants. Great examples of how to incorporate these items into your landscape can be found at our local botanical gardens. 4. Plant trees. Trees are such an integral part of the landscape. They provide structure and shade, and if you select a fruit-bearing plant, can also provide you with food! Small trees such as a bay tree, small citrus (such as Sugar Belle), peach, or dwarf mulberry can be grown in small urban and suburban landscapes. NEW TO GROWING EDIBLE PLANTS? Herbs are a great place to start. They can be planted directly in the ground or in containers. The fragrance from the herbs can also be an asset to the landscape. Brushing against a mint plant while walking in the yard can add to an already pleasant experience. Shrubs such as bananas lend a tropical look to the garden and are a way to enjoy some of the many lesser-known varieties of the fruit. With care, a generous harvest can be had! Blueberries produce a harvest in the spring, but their foliage provides interest in the landscape year-round. The fall foliage on blueberries is orange to red and is beautiful when combined with native saw palmetto and coontie cycads. Plant cool-season annuals such as lettuces and greens (collards, mustard, Swiss chard, kale, cabbage) for the texture and color in the landscape. They can be used to fill a garden space and can be continually harvested throughout the growing season. If you are ready to start adding edible plants to your landscape, use the Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide (edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/VH021) to determine what plants to grow now. Additionally, our monthly newsletter gives tips on what edibles to plant, general maintenance, and where to find helpful workshops in the area. Read and subscribe to our newsletter at substack.com/@yourcentralfloridayard. For more information, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk or on social media @PolkGardening. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu. Tune in to our podcast Your Central Florida Yard, to listen to tips that will help you live your best gardening life in central Florida.

Twenty-nine-year-old Russell was born in Fort Lauderdale. He was an only child for nine years before his little brother came along. The siblings didn’t exactly get along, but that’s changing now. “It was good at first, then it got bad, and it’s slowly working itself to where we’re starting to get along again,” he said. As a kid, he was into Hot Wheels, sports cards, and the WWE. As he got older, things got harder. Life no longer revolved around toy cars and favorite wrestlers. “I’ve went through a lot,” he said. In his early twenties, Russell, his mother, and his brother were homeless, staying in someone else’s house. After a disagreement at the home, Russell was dropped off at Lighthouse Ministries. He’s been homeless on and off since April 2017. “It really hurt knowing that I had nobody there for me at that time,” he said. “But the City of Lakeland is so great. I’ve had a small community around me.” Russell had a few jobs that didn’t pay well, but “I was trying to find my way,” he said. Eventually, he moved to the Talbot House. “There were nights that I couldn’t sleep, or when I’d try to go check in, they were full,” he said. “It was hard on me, being autistic and having nowhere to lay my head down at night sometimes.” “It was rough,” he said of his experience. When he stopped working, he could finally get a bed and a shower each day at Talbot House. From there, he found his way to New Life, an outreach ministry that helped him get off the streets. He was there for 18 months. “Once I started living with them, I started getting better. I felt like I was climbing the ladder to get out of homelessness.” Russell was eventually kicked out of the program after an incident he didn’t want to discuss. He leaned on his good friend, Travis Doodles, YouTuber and founder of Worth and Purpose ministries. His friend put him up at the Paramount for six months until Russell expressed an interest in a home of his own. Travis helped Russell get into Gospel Village. “I literally found out two months ago that I was moving in,” Russell said. He’d only been there for six weeks when we spoke. He described the feeling of having his own space. “Good. I’m like, ‘Finally, I can just be myself and not have to worry about what’s going on with other people. I can just focus on myself.’” “I can lay in my bed all day without having to get up,” he said. “I’ve got a pretty nice bed in there.” Russell helps out around Gospel Village whenever he can and attends classes at the Peace River Center. According to Russell, they discuss topics like emotions, stress, and disability. “I can learn from them as much as possible,” he said. Now, at a steady place in life, Russell regularly talks to his mom and brother, who are no longer homeless. The Gospel Village resident dreams of becoming a YouTuber. He often appears in Travis Doodles’ videos and says he’s trying to build his fan base. Russell pulled out his phone to show us the latest video he’d made with Travis Doodles. “We entered into the Slim Jim competition to go to WrestleMania,” he said excitedly. He said his videos would focus on autism awareness. “Seeing people on the spectrum, like myself, I’m a lot smarter than people give me credit for,” he said in a YouTube interview with Travis Doodles. “Don’t let your disability get the best of you. If you have a dream – chase it!” Mainly, Russell wishes people would be more upfront with him as a person with autism. “Yes, we may be autistic, but we’re people too,” he said. “Autistic people don’t get treated the greatest. [...] We may be different in a lot of ways, but if there’s a way that we can share what we like with other people in the world, maybe they’ll understand you need to treat these people better.” Along with dreams of YouTube stardom, home ownership may be in Russell’s future. “I’ve got to save up money to buy my own place,” he said. The young man had advice for other people experiencing homelessness. “Be in God, keep praying. Don’t give up because if I would have given up, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today,” he said. “I’ve been one of His for 15 years. […] Because of Him, I got to do probably some of the coolest stuff that other people don’t get to do.” Some of that ‘cool stuff’ includes attending a Miami Heat game the season they won the NBA championship. He’s been to Orlando Magic games, Monster Jam, and the WWE Royal Rumble. “If you don’t experience it in person, you won’t know what it’s like,” he said. “We’re humans, and we do make mistakes, but don’t judge us for the mistakes we made,” Russell said of being unsheltered. “Don’t treat us like we’re nothing. They have a life, too. It’s just that life for them is different from everybody else’s.” Following the interview, Russell invited us to see his place. A smile spread across his face as he retrieved the Championship Belt that Logan Paul sent him. He even had a wrestling-themed bedspread. The Serenity Prayer is posted on the door of his home. God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. It’s a celebration of his recovery journey. “It means so much,” he said. Photograph by Amy Sexson

Talbot House Ministries has been serving the homeless since 1979. The organization offers food, shelter, free medical and dental care, residential recovery programs, employment training and placement, and affordable housing opportunities to those in need. Its aim is to empower the unhoused men and women of our community with purpose and self-sufficiency. Talbot House is the most comprehensive provider of homeless services in Polk County. “I believe we have the best, knowledgeable, professionally trained team in the entire Polk County area,” said Maria Cruz, Executive Director of Talbot House Ministries. Cruz has been working in the homeless field for over 24 years. She previously worked for the Coalition for the Homeless as the director of housing programs for nine years before joining the Talbot House two years ago. Cruz comes from a family that stayed engaged in the community. She grew up giving to others, calling it an ‘innate’ part of herself. “I believe we are here in this life, on this Earth, to serve others,” she said. A PLACE OF PURPOSE Talbot House is most known for its emergency shelter. At 4 pm, some 140 folks come to the House to shower, wash laundry, have a meal, and sleep for the night. After breakfast, they go back into the community. Talbot House proposed a Day Center to the City of Lakeland last year and is waiting to hear back. They also act as a safe haven for vulnerable individuals and victims of domestic violence in which they can stay for the night and are evaluated the following day by a case manager to determine what avenue would best serve them. The organization offers two short-term residential programs. These initiatives provide case management and educational opportunities for adults experiencing homelessness. The programs last six to 24 months and take place within a structured, sober-living environment. In addition to emergency shelter and residential programs, they have outreach initiatives. “We visit the encampments in the community and provide them with water, clothing, shoes, food, hygiene kits, health-related kits,” said Cruz. “We bring a medical licensed counselor to talk to them and case managers to talk to them. We partner with drug and recovery programs, and they come with us to the communities as well.” These outreach programs are expanding. What started with a small grant from the City of Winter Haven became a sizable grant from Direct Relief. “We are going to be hiring an outreach coordinator to impact all encampments in Polk County,” Cruz said. They also plan to buy a new vehicle with a portable shower to bring to the encampments. Over the last year, Talbot House has piloted a diversion program, which is a best practice from Housing First. As people enter their doors, “We assess individuals and let them know if there is anything we can help them with that could prevent them from entering the emergency system.” Talbot House has successfully diverted 129 individuals from homelessness in the first year with the seed of $40K from a private donor. “What we wanted to do with this – with the first pilot data – was to prove to and show the community that these approaches work,” said Cruz. She envisions investing money in these proven approaches to reduce police intervention, emergency service intervention, and hospitalization. “How much will we save if you invest this little amount compared to spending $14K in an emergency intervention?” she said. Talbot House Ministries offers affordable housing as well. The ministry owns and operates 46 units of affordable housing and partners with Plateau Village to provide referrals and wraparound services to an additional 36 households. The organization partners with Homeless Coalition of Polk County and receives federal grants for housing, including rapid rehousing, permanent supportive programs, and housing vouchers. Their employment solution program, with job skills coordinators and employment specialists, connects the unsheltered with employment opportunities and helps train them in skills like building a resume, getting dressed for interviews, communicating professionally, and financial literacy and planning. These programs aren’t only for their residents but the entire homeless community. The on-site Good Samaritan Clinic offers free medical, dental, and mental healthcare to uninsured, low-income individuals in Polk County. The Talbot House food pantry is open to the community every Tuesday and Thursday and serves 525 households monthly. “Talbot House is expanding. We are going to be opening another location in the Polk County area,” said Cruz. Though they haven’t disclosed the location, the vision is a center for women and children. “It will be the first time in history that Talbot House will provide emergency shelter and a residential program for women and children. It’s an important milestone that we are very proud of.” Talbot House is a low-barrier shelter, meaning drug tests aren’t required for those it serves. “We need to be better at showing our God loves by actions,” said Cruz, adding that folks shouldn’t have to fit into a box to receive care. “We have been training our staff towards a more trauma-informed care intervention – crisis de-escalation, harm reduction, trying to see the individuals through the eyes of trauma. If someone is here under stress or pressure, do not expect that they are going to respond to you in a certain way. They don’t trust us. They are here, oppressed by the different stressors of their lives. We are the professionals. We must be prepared to handle that.” The Talbot House is a place of refuge for many, a hand up, a new start. Cara has been coming to Talbot House for nine months and has been a resident for seven. She first became homeless when her husband left her. He said he’d paid two months of the rent, but five days later, law enforcement told her she had 15 minutes to get out of the home. After getting out of the hospital, Talbot House was the only place with availability for Cara. “It’s given me stability. It gives me purpose – helping people. It fills me up and makes me feel better,” she said. EDUCATION AND ADVOCACY There are a multitude of factors causing homelessness nationwide. The most prevalent issues are the lack of affordable housing and living wages. According to Cruz, they used to see people without income, with severe mental health issues, or struggling with addiction come through their doors. That narrative is shifting. “Now we’re having working families that cannot afford to pay their rent, that are sleeping in their cars,” she said. “There’s a lot of ignorance surrounding the topic of homelessness,” Cruz said. “We need to unify forces to be able to do an effective job because it is huge, and we are not able to do it alone.” It all starts with understanding the causes and finding evidence-based solutions. People need to understand that it can happen to anyone. We are all one catastrophic life event away from becoming homeless. “Many people believe they’re untouchable,” she said. Cruz noted the lack of healthcare, mental healthcare, programs for recovery, hunger, and poverty as other causes for people experiencing homelessness. Policymakers must work within these systematic issues and understand the realities of homelessness at the national level. There is a lack of programs locally, too, she said. Though help can be found through organizations like Lighthouse Ministries, the Salvation Army, and Gospel Inc., they each have a set capacity to serve. Each organization has limited resources to help the community. We must educate our politicians and those in positions of influence about the realities of homelessness and push back on the judgment surrounding it. “We are not going to address the homelessness crisis by ignoring it or […] criminalizing them for being homeless and not having enough programs for them,” said Cruz. “There is a belief that we don’t invest a penny in more homelessness programs. But think about it. We are trying to do the best we can with the resources we have to help you with a community issue.” According to Cruz, “Ninety-two percent of the people we are seeing in programs are local.” These are our neighbors, our family, and our friends. “We have a huge project as advocates. We are the experts in the matter. We need to raise our voices and continue speaking out for people who can’t speak for themselves.” Cruz is planning a town hall to discuss the topic and educate the community. Representatives from Lighthouse Ministries, Salvation Army, Gospel Inc., and Worth and Purpose founder Travis Doodles will join Cruz. “We’ll start having these conversations nobody wants to have,” she said. The town hall is slated for August. Though Talbot House Ministries serves about 500 individuals daily through its many programs and resources, “I feel frustrated sometimes as a leader because I cannot do more,” Cruz said. “I try to focus on the transformation of the life of each individual.” Talbot House Ministries 814 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 687-8475 FB: Talbot House Ministries of Lakeland IG @talbothouseministries talbothouse.org Photography by Amy Sexson

No sunset or lake silhouette is more fitting than that of “The Water Ski Capital of the World” to honor the 100th anniversary of the sport. The waters of Dick Pope Sr.’s tropical haven and skiing sanctum, Cypress Gardens, were the stage for many shattered records, celebrity guests, and film and television productions throughout the years. The magic lives on as later this month, thousands of spectators and athletes the world over will descend on Winter Haven for the 2022 International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF) World Water Ski Show Tournament. The Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team, City of Winter Haven, and Polk County Tourism and Sports Marketing are partnering to host the World Show Ski Championships. International teams and individuals will compete on Lake Silver in the largest tournament to date and the first event to combine an Individual and Team competition. Competitive teams include the USA, Belgium, Germany, Canada, and Sweden, with Mexico joining as an exhibition team. Preceding the tournament on the evening of October 18, Visit Central Florida and the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team will host a “Night with the Stars of Show Skiing’’ at Nora Mayo Hall. The red carpet dinner will honor professional show skiers. The Opening Ceremony will be held at the original Cypress Gardens Ski Stadium at LEGOLAND Florida on Wednesday, October 19. Festivities will include a parade of athletes, welcome speeches, live music, skiing demonstrations, and fireworks. The International Food & Drink Street Festival hosted by Main Street Winter Haven will occur the following day, Thursday, October 20, at 5:30 pm on Central Avenue in Winter Haven. Admission to the family- and dog-friendly festival is free. Attendees can expect drink tents, live music, and international food from local restaurants and vendors. The tournament will officially kick off on Friday, October 21, at Lake Silver, with the Individual Swivel Ski event followed by Adagio Doubles. Countries new to the WWSST will join in on the Centennial Celebration of the sport of waterskiing by performing their exhibition shows on Friday as well. Saturday, October 22, all competitive teams will compete. The tournament will conclude on Sunday, October 23, with teams placed by their Saturday scores, followed in the late afternoon by the Individual Freestyle jump competition, ending with a Medal Ceremony. For a full schedule of events and more information about the IWWF World Water Ski Show Tournament, visit worldwaterskishow.com. CYPRESS GARDENS WATER SKI TEAM PREPARES Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team president Mark Voisard expects between three and five thousand people at the World Water Ski Show Tournament, and he’s excited to show off the beautiful Martin Luther King, Jr. Park. He and the team have been busy making ready for the event by preparing the site. The ski team will run the Southern Hospitality tent and concession stands at the tournament, and according to Voisard, “We’ll be doing some skiing during breaks in the action at the Worlds.” Voisard, a former Cypress Gardens show director, was instrumental in forming the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team – and keeping the legacy alive. Mark Voisard hails from Deerfield, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. His uncle owned a resort several hours north in Eagle River, Wisconsin. When Voisard was six, someone gave his uncle a homemade boat which he outfitted with a 45 horsepower Mercury motor and got out on the water. That’s when he first learned to ski. “I had to put tennis shoes on because they didn’t have any kid’s skis,” Voisard remembered. At 16 years old in 1970, Voisard became a founding member of the Chain Skimmers Water Ski Show Team in Eagle River, Wisconsin. In 1976, the team became the Wisconsin State Champions. After graduating college, Voisard set his sights on Cypress Gardens. He was hired to ski at the park, and when they called and asked when he could come, Voisard said he’d be there in two weeks. His first day was March 1, 1977. “We had a bunch of our guys from Eagle River come ski with us down here. My brother skied here,” he said. “When I got here, I was focused on skiing because there was so much to learn,” Voisard said. “They were doing things already that we hadn’t even thought about doing.” Soon after arriving at the Gardens, Voisard started flying the Delta Wing Kite. “We flew two kites every show, and we had four shows a day. So, with eight chances to fly – you get a lot of flying in.” Spectators can still see Voisard fly today during Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team shows. Mark became the Cypress Gardens show director for 15 years and worked at the park for some 30 years. In 1982, Voisard won the Men 2 National barefoot tricks and starts titles and has officiated over 30 National Show Ski Association tournaments. Voisard has officiated ten national and two world championships. Another feat Mark and show ski champion, Cheryl Orloff, took on was the first five-tier pyramid. “Nobody had ever done it before. First of all, you have to do a double-top four-tier,” he said. The direction of the pyramid spurred advancements in safety for the skiers, including the Flo-Mo vest and the use of braided handles – both of which have been adopted by the greater water ski community. “There’s a little more safety every time we do something like that,” Voisard said. With one boat pulling another boat and a total of 17 people – they successfully performed the first five-tier pyramid. Voisard was honored with an award of distinction by the USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation in 2016. THE SHOW GOES ON The former show director relayed the inception story of the original ski team at Cypress Gardens. “The story goes that Dick Pope Sr. was in the army somewhere around the world, so Julie Pope, his wife, was basically running the park. Skiing wasn’t anything they normally did. The kids would come, and they’d go skiing,” he said. According to Voisard, military personnel on leave visited the park and saw the kids skiing. “They went back to Orlando and said, ‘Hey, you guys have to go to Cypress Gardens – they’re doing a ski show.’ It wasn’t actually a ski show.” People began to ask what time the ski show was. An improvising Julie Pope told them 3 o’clock. “The kids got out of school, they got them all picked up, got them out there, and they started skiing, and that’s how it started.” In 2011, two years after Cypress Gardens closed, USA Water Ski Hall of Fame inductee and former Cypress Gardens skier Don Thompson was honored. Former professional Gardens skiers got together to perform a ski show on Lake Silver for Thompson. The show sparked talks of starting a ski club and teaching kids to ski. Voisard remembered someone suggesting, “We’ll teach them the way they did it at Cypress Gardens so that they really do it well and continue doing it.” Mark and his wife, Jean Voisard, began working with the City of Winter Haven in 2012 to secure Martin Luther King, Jr. Park as a home for the emerging Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. “It took almost a year to get the whole deal worked out,” he said. Waiting on permits and a contract with the City in the works, they began forming the team. “We actually started skiing in our backyard in Eagle Lake. We brought the trailer with all the skis and a couple of boats,” Voisard said. The team started on Lake Silver later that year. “We’re very lucky. The City has been really good to us, and the County has been good to us.” Today, the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team is a non-profit USAWSsanctioned ski team with approximately 155 members ranging in age from two to skiers in their seventies. The team makes a splash on the third Saturday of each month with their free ski shows at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park on Lake Silver. Slalom, tricks, jumping, knee boarding, hydrofoil, barefoot, “In the show ski world, you kind of put all those things together. We barefoot, we hydrofoil, we jump, we fly the kite some, the girls swivel,” Voisard said. The team also offers adaptive ski clinics for those with special needs and disabilities. There will not be a Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team show on the third Saturday of October because of the World Tournament. But don’t miss their Halloween show! The nighttime show promises tons of spooky fun, from a skeleton pyramid to ghouls, wolfman, and a “Thriller” performance. The legacy continues as the team carries the Cypress Gardens torch – and its billowing namesake flags. Just as Dick Pope did with his theme park, the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team invites visitors to imbibe sunshine, fresh lake air, and the glamour and athleticism of a sport entering its centennial. Photography by Amy Sexson Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team www.cypressgardensskiteam.com FB: Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team (est. 2012) IG @cypress_gardens_ski_team Free shows on the third Saturday of each month: Lake Silver at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park 275 S Lake Silver Dr., Winter Haven