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We talked with Timothy Collette from Clean Pirate Life to learn about the fifth annual Foot the Chain Music & Waterski Festival happening in February. With a new sober living facility as the end goal, find out about the fun happening along the way to get there. HOW DID FOOT THE CHAIN COME ABOUT AND WHY? TC: Foot the Chain (FTC) started with a group of guys who came to Winter Haven every year after the holiday season, to warm up and barefoot waterski our beautiful chain of lakes. This group of guys is part of the barefoot waterski race circuit, and they are very competitive. Because I live here, they asked if I could figure out some sort of “race.” So, in 2021, four boats were towed down from out of state, as far as Indiana, Texas, and Pennsylvania, and we tested my concept of Foot the Chain. We had 30 skiers who, through random draw from a hat, formed teams, and with wetsuits on, we loaded up into boats, and the Foot the Chain Barefoot Shootout was born. The first year, though not really an official event, was such a great success that we knew we had to do it again. Escaping to Winter Haven, getting to barefoot waterski with some of the greats in the sport, being put in a boat through random selection and throwing darts to determine the winner has made FTC Barefoot Shootout one of the most talked about events in the sport. It’s competitive, yes, but it’s FUN! There is no other format like this in our sport. As year two approached, we learned that some of the other barefoot waterski races across the country raised money for a local charity. LIGHTBULB moment! As I am in recovery, I had wanted to do something to give back to that community as well as put together a community event for Winter Haven. Foot the Chain Waterski and Music Festival was born and benefits the Clean Cause Foundation. Why not bring more waterskiing, live music, a festival type atmosphere and raise awareness for addiction by supporting a foundation helping those in recovery? Done! FTC II had 5 bands, 10 boats, 60 barefooters, 2 waterski shows, and a Flyboard Fireworks show like no other! FTC III was bigger yet, and we switched our benefiting foundation to CleanPirateLife, a Local Addiction Awareness foundation. Because the weather has been chilly for past events, FTC V will take place on February 20 and 21 this year. All I want out of this event is to bring community, waterskiing, and waterfront live music together to raise money for a great cause. WHAT CAN PEOPLE EXPECT THIS YEAR? TC: Better Weather! At least that’s the hope. We have some of the most sought-after local live music, the Flyboard Fireworks show is returning, our friends at Animal Aqua Watersports have stepped in to organize our waterski show and waterski exhibitions with former Team USA Waterski show team members, and registration is already up for the Barefoot Shootout. We have fostered a stronger connection to our small local businesses, who have donated more for our raffles, and we have 14 local market vendors coming. WHAT IS YOUR GOAL FOR THIS YEAR’S EVENT? TC: The goal every year is to bring the community out to an amazing experience of waterfront music and waterski entertainment on our beautiful chain of lakes, while raising awareness that recovery is possible. My hope is that every year at this event I can reach just one person to make the personal decision to do better with their life. At the end of the day, recovery isn’t just about substance abuse. We all have or experience something in life that we need to recover from. Recovery is about learning to live a new way of life. WHY DO YOU FEEL IT’S IMPORTANT TO CREATE A SOBER LIVING EXPERIENCE? HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REALITY? TC: There are several things about living free of substances and the journey to get there that are hard. Some of those things become nearly impossible without the right support and tools. Sober living houses offer just that. However, I learned that nothing in life is free, and most people who make the commitment of learning a new way to live have hit rock bottom, where money is scarce, work is scary, and temptation is around every corner. Staying free from addictive behavior and substances is not a solo adventure if there is to be success. Sober living houses continue to provide tools, support and accountability necessary to live a life in recovery. CleanPirateLife has raised about 30% of the funds needed to be able to start an affordable sober living house here in Winter Haven. FOOT THE CHAIN WATERSKI & MUSIC FESTIVAL February 20 & 21 Tanners Lakeside 1006 Lake Howard Dr SW, Winter Haven footthechain.com FB @footthechain

Dwight Icenhower, the legendary Elvis tribute artist, along with his wife, Vicky, who he proclaims to be a “rockstar that does everything but get on stage and perform,” have crafted a three-day, very intimate, multi- faceted experience for those who loved The King and Icenhower’s ultimate tribute to him. “When my wife and I first designed the weekend, we wanted it to be like a ‘Dwight Fan Retreat’ for the die-hard fans that have been with me for years and years,” explained Icenhower. The vision happens for a third time on March 13-15, at Nora Mayo Hall in Winter Haven, where Icenhower calls home. And while the VIP weekend has been an annual event, this year features an all-new set list. Each day will have its own theme and activities for the purpose of the enthusiast having greater proximity with the artist. “It will just be me and my band … having a whole weekend strictly dedicated to the fans. They can enjoy my music and get that experience you’re not getting at a regular concert.” Icenhower continued, “We play a lot of venues where it’s 1000 seats, 1500, 2000-seat places … and when you play to that many people you don’t get to walk around and say hello to every single person … but this event, we’re all hanging out together, all weekend long.” In an incredible showing of gratitude that Icenhower has for his supporters, the weekend will give fans in person, literal thank-yous with special activities like behind-the-scenes storytelling in between sets, autograph signing, meet and greets, photo ops, question and answer sessions, and specially curated performances. Icenhower will be in complete Elvis Presley regalia, including the signature costumes, perfectly coiffed hair, popped collars, oversized accessories, and embodied persona. A quick tip for fans unable to make it the entire weekend, Icenhower suggests that if you had to choose only one day to go, Sunday would be the best. He explained, “You get more bang for your buck on Sunday because [it’ll] actually be two full concerts.” The most important tip: You can only acquire tickets through the ticket hotline (909) 354-0381. There are 3-Day passes, General Admission, and while everyone is a VIP during this lovely affair, you can also buy the Ultimate Passholder, which will allow a little more one-on-one time with Dwight. VIP WEEKEND VIEW: FRIDAY, MARCH 13 “Dwight: Aloha from Winter Haven.” This is a salute to Elvis’s big concert in the 70s called “Aloha from Hawaii.” Guests will hear songs from that iconic television special, plus songs from his Hawaiian movies. It’s a whole aloha theme. Icenhower is encouraging people to dress in their best Hawaiian attire and get in the Aloha spirit. SATURDAY, MARCH 14 “Conversations with Dwight” and “From Comeback to King of Vegas.” “We have the autograph signing and conversations … where fans can get to know me, personally. Doing this for 30 years, you’ve got a ton of unbelievable stories. They’ll hear about the tours we do … I play a two-month tour, spread out over April and November, over in Europe where sometimes we play 22, 23 shows in 25 days … so, we’re gonna talk about that and different stories from the road,” Icenhower explained. SUNDAY, MARCH 15 “How Great Thou Art: The Gospel Music of Elvis” and “Dwight’s Favorites.” “Anyone who knows anything about Elvis, knows he recorded a lot of great gospel albums … so we do a full concert at 12:30 of all of Elvis’ gospel material, and I tell stories to go along with that. At 5:30, I’m going to be singing all my personal favorite Elvis songs, ranging from the 1950s rock & roll clear through the 70s.” DWIGHT ICENHOWER’S VIP WEEKEND 2026 March 13 – 15, 2026 Nora Mayo Hall 500 3rd St NW, Winter Haven, FL dwighticenhower.com Tickets: (909)354-0381

Jack Spengler was born in Buffalo, New York in 1930. He shares his decades with a lightness that feels almost subversive in a climate that so often feels like rain on the day you planned the picnic—even testing the dispositions of those who keep the glass a quarter full and steady eyes on the silver linings behind unexpected clouds. Jack carries a pragmatic joy, as if he shook hands with what he couldn’t control, making friends with both rain and sunshine. He jokes about skipping school with the sparkle all young rebels should take instead of tarnishing in the years to follow. Those memories sit on the shelf next to tales of hitchhiking with a group of friends, all making sense as he lists the names of adventure stories he liked to read. Jack is a movie guy. He remembered seeing movies for ten cents, his brother always making sure it was a special experience. The smile on his face as we gushed over one of his favorite films, “King Kong,” was as big as the Eighth Wonder of the World himself on the Empire State Building, planes circling, cinematic history being invented in black and white. He danced, too. Lindy Hop, Charleston, jitterbug—dances that seemed more like musical, magic tricks to me. I don’t think Jack ever second- guessed his place on the dance floor; this itself a kind of magic, even winning a waltz contest once (second place, he’ll clarify). By the 1950s, Jack trained as a welder and spent thirty years with Ford Motor Company, working in construction rather than assembling cars. He and his wife, Mary Jane, raised three children—Kim, Jill, and John. “Don’t get married too early,” he advises without bitterness. Jack spent the after work & weekend hours gardening— planting corn, tomatoes, beans—raising chickens, dachshunds, and Maltese dogs. He taught himself French and then Spanish after reading that there would be more Spanish speakers in the America ahead, walking past meeting halfway in the language of his neighbors to come. When asked about the world now, Jack doesn’t make a sweeping statement, diagnosis, or a past-to-present comparison. He doesn’t use new technology much. He exercises, eats simply, likes chicken for dinner, spumoni ice cream, and a hot mocha when his daughter Kim takes him to Richard’s Coffee. He believes young people today are smarter than he was, and he says it without irony. His advice is spare: be tolerant and keep a sense of humor. To answer my favorite little doorway to the unknown… “Have you ever witnessed anything you couldn’t explain?” Once, driving in daylight, he saw what he thought was a meteor, bright, unmistakable, gone. He doesn’t feel the need to explain everything. He does believe there’s life beyond this planet. “There would have to be,” he shrugs, noting that the universe is too big to be certain. At ninety-five, Jack Spengler doesn’t offer advice by way of word-to-the-wise warnings or definitive conclusions on how life is best lived. What he offers instead is something rare: proof that placing value in learning, a premium on humor, and a willingness to arrive fully—again and again—can carry a person all the way to the smile I’ll bet he is wearing right now.

BLACK LOVE CLASSICS SERIES Celebrate the intersection of Valentine’s Day and Black History Month with stories of romance as told by Black filmmakers and diverse casts at the Tampa Theatre at 3 p.m. Feb. 1: “If Beale Street Could Talk” (2018); Feb. 8: “The Photograph” (2020); Feb. 15: “Boomerang” (1992); Feb. 22: “Carmen Jones” (1954). tampatheatre.org NHL STADIUM SERIES Feb. 1, 6:30 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium. The Tampa Bay Lightning face off against the Boston Bruins in a one-of-a-kind hockey spectacle outside under the lights. The Bruins will wear sunshine inspired jerseys, and the Lightning will wear pirate- inspired jerseys. Purchase tickets at nhl.com/stadiumseries FLORIDA STATE FAIR Feb. 5 – 16 at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Guests will love the food eating contests, games, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, rides, art shows, and of course, the crazy fair food. floridastatefair.com ROCK THE PARK Feb. 5, 6:30 p.m. at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Free music event! February is EMO with Bad Bad Things, BILL, and Pet Lizard. Food for purchase by JAM DISH (authentic Jamaican) & Boy Named Sous. More info on Facebook at RockThePark. WILLY WONKA KIDS Feb. 19 – 22 at the Straz Center. See the delicious adventures experienced by Charlie Bucket on his visit to Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory featuring songs from the 1971 film. The younger Patel Conservatory Theater students will bring this Roald Dahl classic to life. strazcenter.org PARENTS’ TIME OFF Feb. 20, 5:30 – 10 p.m. at the Florida Aquarium. Give yourself a well-earned break while your kids enjoy aquatic fun, pizza, hands- on activities, and adventures in a safe space designed just for them. For kids aged 5 – 12, reservations required. flaquarium.org ST. PETE SEAFOOD & MUSIC FEST Feb. 20 – 22 at Vinoy Park. This family-friendly event has amazing seafood, live music, and beautiful views of downtown St. Pete. Plus, explore a marketplace of arts and crafts between performances. Visit Facebook at stpeteseafoodfestival for more info. YANKEES SPRING TRAINING Games played at the George M. Steinbrenner Field. Feb. 21 at 1:05 p.m. vs Tigers; Feb. 22 at 1:05 p.m. vs Mets; Feb. 25 at 6:35 p.m. vs Nationals; Feb. 26 at 1:05 p.m. vs Braves; Feb. 28 at 1:05 p.m. vs Blue Jays. Purchase tickets at mlb.com/yankees/spring-training . GASPARILLA DISTANCE CLASSIC Feb. 21 & 22 in Tampa. Race Weekend will include four distances plus four challenges: the 15K, 5K, the Half Marathon (13.1 miles), and the 8K. The weekend also includes several multi-race challenges. This flat and fast course takes runners on an out-and-back course along Bayshore Boulevard. rungasparilla.com GASPARILLA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Feb. 28, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., and March 1 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park. This is one of the top outdoor, juried fine arts shows in the US, showcasing a wide variety of art mediums and price points. This family-friendly event has live music and food for purchase. Admission is free. gasparillaarts.com

ORLANDO MAGIC Home games are played at the Kia Center. The Magic will play five times in February. Feb. 5, 7 p.m. vs Nets; Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. vs Jazz; Feb. 9 at 7:30 p.m. vs Bucks; Feb. 11 at 7p.m. vs Bucks; Feb. 26 at 7:30p.m. vs Rockets. Purchase tickets at nba.com/magic . TIARA’S HAT PARADE Feb. 7 – 22 at Orlando Family Stage. Based on the book by author Kelly Starling Lyons, “Tiara’s Hat Parade” is a celebration of creativity, community, and the bond between a mother and daughter. See what happens when a child sees someone she loves losing hope and steps in to lift them up. orlandofamilystage.com ART IN THE PARK Feb. 7, noon – 3 p.m. in Central Park in Winter Park. This free, family-friendly event includes live stage performances and interactive arts activities, including weaving a community tapestry, portraits, learning to play a few chords on instruments, and so much more. cityofwinterpark.org MARDI GRAS Feb. 7 – April 4 at Universal Orlando. On select nights, watch the parade with outrageous street performers, music, costumes, and beads flying through the air! Purchase authentic Cajun specialties along with food from around the world. Purchase tickets at universalorlando.com THESE GO TO 11: THE FILMS OF ROB REINER Celebrate Rob Reiner, one of Hollywood’s most versatile and influential directors Feb. 13 – 19 at the Enzian. Watch “A Few Good Men” (1992), “Misery” (1990), “The Princess Bride” (1987), “This is Spinal Tap” (1984), and “When Harry Met Sally…” (1989). Schedule at enzian.org . VALENTINE’S DAY CONCERT Feb. 14, 7 p.m. at Leu Gardens. Celebrate with an enchanting evening concert under the stars. Bring a picnic and a blanket or chairs. Hear: Ricky & the Buzzcatz, Alma Skye Trio, and Nova Classica. Purchase tickets in advance. leugardens.org WINTER GARDEN MUSIC FESTIVAL Feb. 21 in Downtown Winter Garden. Brought to you by the City of Winter Garden, this FREE multi-stage outdoor concert features a variety of live entertainment and music genres performing continuously and simultaneously for 11 hours throughout historic downtown. cwgdn.com BREWS AROUND THE ZOO Feb. 21 & 22 at the Central Florida Zoo. On Saturday, enjoy craft beers under the night sky with live music and a high-energy atmosphere. On Sunday, it’s a more relaxed vibe with music, sunshine, and great views of the animals while you sip and stroll. centralfloridazoo.org MLK GOSPEL CONCERT Feb. 22, 7 p.m. at Dr. Phillips Center. Produced and directed by Grammy Award winner Dr. Jeffrey Redding. Admission is free, but attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for local charities. Get your free tickets in advance at drphillipscenter.org . THE SECOND CITY Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. at Dr. Phillips Center. This interactive show features an array of classic sketch comedy and songs from the company’s 65 years, including new favorites, and the signature brand of irreverent improv that The Second City is famous for. drphillipscenter.org

JOE PUG Feb. 1, 7 p.m. at the Derry Down. A singer-songwriter known for his lyrical acumen and plaintive harmonica style, he has toured with Steve Earle, Levon Helm, The Killers, Justin Townes Earle, Sturgill Simpson, and many others. He has appeared at Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, and The Newport Folk Festival. gpderrydown.com LAKE WALES MARDI GRAS Feb. 13, 6 p.m. - 11 p.m., join the Glow Run at 6 p.m. The fun continues on Feb. 14 from 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. with live music, food and the parade at 3 p.m. The celebration is at Lake Wailes Park. The parade route goes through downtown. More info at lwmardigras.com . UNNECESSARY FARCE Feb. 1, 6, 7, & 8 at Lake Wales Little Theatre. Two cops. Three crooks. Eight doors. A cheap motel room, an embezzling mayor, and two undercover cops waiting to catch the meeting on videotape. Add an accountant and some confusion, and you’ve got a fun night ahead of you. lwlt.org SMOKE OFF THE WATER Feb. 6 from 6 - 10 p.m. and Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at 2400 Dundee Rd. This outdoor BBQ & music festival brings together incredible bands, award-winning BBQ, kids activities, and an unbeatable community vibe, all for a good cause! centralfloridatix.com THE BLACK MARKET Feb. 7, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at MLK Park on Lake Silver. Support and uplift Black-owned businesses in our community. Explore a diverse range of products, from fashion and art to delicious treats. Honor the richness of Black history and entrepreneurship. Facebook: The Black Market; A Melanin Cultural Festival. FAT TUESDAY Feb. 17, 6 p.m. at Bowen Yard. Spend Fat Tuesday at Bowen Yard with HBJazz playing live from 6-8 pm. Visit Maritime for food and drink specials and beads, of course! Find more info about this family-friendly event at FB @bowenyardwh. MATT JOHNSON Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre. Matt Johnson is a master magician and escapologist. Every performance incorporates magic, mind-reading, the power of suggestion, stunts, comedy, and audience participation. theatrewinterhaven.com SPRING TRAINING Watch the Detroit Tigers play at Publix Field in Lakeland. All February home games begin at 1:05 p.m. Schedule: Feb. 22 vs Orioles; Feb. 23 vs Twins; Feb. 25 vs Blue Jays; Feb. 27 vs Phillies. Purchase tickets in advance at mlb.com/tigers/spring-training . THE SUNSHINE BOYS Feb. 12 – March 1 at Theatre Winter Haven. Two top-billed vaudevillians for over forty years aren’t even speaking. When CBS requests them for a “History of Comedy” retrospective, a grudging reunion brings the two back together. theatrewinterhaven.com LW ARTS FESTIVAL Feb. 28 & March 1 from 10 a.m. - 4p.m. on the shores of Lake Wailes. This annual event showcases quality works by over 60 fine artists and artisans from across the region with original, one-of-a-kind pieces. Hosted by the Lake Wales Arts Council. lakewalesartscouncil.org

JOE PUG Feb. 1, 7 p.m. at the Derry Down. A singer-songwriter known for his lyrical acumen and plaintive harmonica style. He has toured with Steve Earle, Levon Helm, The Killers, Justin Townes Earle, Sturgill Simpson, and many others. He has appeared at Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, and The Newport Folk Festival. gpderrydown.com VALENTINE NIGHT MARKET Feb. 14, 5 – 9 p.m. in Downtown Lakeland. Great for date night, girls night, or family night out. Downtown retail shops will be open late, and Kentucky Ave will be filled with 150+ food vendors, artisans, crafters, live music, and more. downtownLKLD.com . ROTARY TWILIGHT 5K Feb. 6, 7 p.m. at Lake Hollingsworth Park. Run a scenic twilight run around beautiful Lake Hollingsworth and then up Buckingham Avenue to finish next to the Common Ground Playground. Proceeds benefit the playground. lakelandrunnersclub.org NINJAGO WEEKEND Feb. 7, 14, and 15 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at LEGOLAND. Release your inner Ninja with new live shows, action-packed activities, exclusive meet-and-greets with your favorite LEGO Ninjas, try new food, and more! Included with admission. legoland.com/florida A TRIBUTE TO BOB MARLEY Feb. 13, 7 p.m. at Union Hall. Watch and listen as Firelight pays homage to the reggae legend. With their soulful renditions and infectious energy, Firelight will transport you to the sun-soaked beaches of Jamaica to hear the iconic sounds of Bob Marley. unionhallevents.com LKLD INDIE WOMEN’S BASH Feb. 15, noon at Union Hall. An entire day of music, art, and fun celebrating local women in music & art. Get ready for a lineup of amazing indie bands, local artists showcasing their work, and delicious food and drinks. unionhallevents.com CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL Feb. 21, 3 p.m. - 9p.m. at Bonnet Springs Park. A free family-friendly evening of fun and island vibes. Enjoy cultural showcases, a Black & Caribbean-owned pop-up market, an expanded food vendor lineup, and kids’ activities, headlined by the Grammy-winning Kabaka Pyramid & The Bebble Rockers. bonnetspringspark.com SPRING TRAINING Watch the Detroit Tigers play at Publix Field in Lakeland. All February home games begin at 1:05 p.m. Schedule: Feb. 22 vs Orioles; Feb. 23 vs Twins; Feb. 25 vs Blue Jays; Feb. 27 vs Phillies. Purchase tickets in advance at mlb.com/tigers/spring-training . JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR Feb. 13 – March 1 at Lakeland Community Theatre. Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The story, told entirely through the iconic 70s rock score, explores the relationships between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers, and the Roman Empire. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com TOP CHEF OF POLK COUNTY Feb. 23, 6 – 9 p.m. at Bonnet Springs Park Event Center. Ten of Polk County’s most talented Chefs will wow you with their signature creations, each paired with a wine or libation for you to sample. Guests will enjoy a cash bar, live music, and silent and live auctions. Proceeds benefit the Achievement Academy.

REMAIN By Nicholas Sparks New York architect Tate Donovan arrives in Cape Cod, still grieving the death of his sister who could see spirits. In a historic bed-and-breakfast, he meets a young woman named Wren who will challenge every assumption he has about his logical and controlled world. CONSIDER YOURSELF KISSED By Jessica Stanley A literary love story told through ten years in the life of one woman as she tries to build a longed-for family without also losing herself. An entertaining portrayal of the true, grown-up meaning of “happily ever after.” FIRST-TIME CALLER By B.K. Borison Aiden Valentine has a secret: he’s fallen out of love with love. And as the host of Baltimore’s romance hotline, that’s a bit of a problem. But when a young girl calls in to the station asking for dating advice for her mom, the jaded radio host finds he’s not quite ready to hang up on love. CAN’T GET ENOUGH By Kennedy Ryan Hendrix lives a fabulous life. Great friends, a thriving business, even if caring for her aging parent is a challenge. Who has time for romance? When tech mogul Maverick Bell makes her feel seen and desired, Hendrix needs to decide if it’s time to let herself have it all. STORY OF MY LIFE By Lucy Score Desperate to escape her writer’s block, Hazel leaves her Upper East Side apartment for a house in rural Pennsylvania she bought sight unseen. Nothing goes to plan, but at least she finds swoon-worthy inspiration in her hot, grumpy contractor Cam. It’s all just research. What could go wrong? THE GEOGRAPHER’S MAP TO ROMANCE By India Holton Geography professors in a failed marriage of convenience inconveniently reconnect when both are sent on an emergency mission to a small Welsh village that has suffered a magical disaster in this swoony historical-fantasy rom-com. SOUNDS LIKE LOVE By Ashley Poston A hitmaking songwriter and a bitter musician share a startling and inexplicable connection that they’ll do anything to shake, but that song stuck in their heads? Maybe it’s there for a reason. FAKE SKATING By Lynn Painter This latest love story from YA and romance specialist Lynn Painter finds childhood friends reuniting as teenagers in their hockey-loving Minnesota hometown. It turns out that teenage relationships are a bit more complicated.

HEART THE LOVER By Lily King “Heart the Lover” examines that particular ache of a relationship that didn’t end because of a lack of love, but because of timing and youthful mistakes. Moving through time, the story evolves years later to address the shifting concept of love, adopting a more reflective tone as the narrator reconciles her stable present with the “one that got away.” It is a story about the kind of first love that never truly leaves you, and how the person you were with them still exists somewhere inside the person you are now. AN AMERICAN MARRIAGE By Tayari Jones Told through multiple perspectives, the narrative shifts between characters to offer a 360-degree view of the emotional fallout. Rather than centering on the tragic event at the center of the novel, the story turns inward, focusing on the intimate, human struggle of trying to stay connected. In the end, it becomes a powerful examination of whether a marriage can survive a profound injustice, or if some bonds are irrevocably changed by time and circumstance. ONE TRUE LOVES By Taylor Jenkins Reid An emotional love triangle - one where you know someone is going to get emotionally crushed - including the reader! The story follows Emma as she grapples with an impossible choice between two different lives and two different loves, ultimately exploring whether it’s possible to have more than one “true love” in a lifetime. OUR SOULS AT NIGHT By Kent Haruf This novel is a tender look at love that isn’t about grand gestures, but about the simple need for another person’s presence. Two elderly neighbors, both long widowed and living alone, decide to embark on an unusual arrangement to combat their shared loneliness. It is a gentle, sparely written story about the courage it takes to seek happiness late in life and the external pressures that can threaten even the quietest of bonds. BROKEN COUNTRY By Clare Leslie Hall A clever blend of thriller and psychological drama. Moving between past and present, the story builds toward a high-stakes turning point where secrets can no longer stay hidden. It is a slow-burn exploration of how a first love can haunt a person’s future, offering a raw look at the jagged, often desperate lengths one will go to protect their version of happiness. THE REST OF OUR LIVES By Ben Markovits Our narrator, Tom, drops his youngest daughter off at college, triggering the memory of the secret pact he made years earlier to leave his wife after her affair. Instead of returning home, he keeps driving west on a solo trip, seeking out people from his past to help him sort out his present. It’s a small, intimate story that focuses on the slow erosion and complex endurance of a long-term marriage, and the subtle ways people hurt each other over decades of proximity. NORMAL PEOPLE By Sally Rooney This novel is proof that not all love stories are happy. The story follows Connell and Marianne, who remain connected over many years, despite repeatedly misunderstanding each other. Rooney writes with restraint and emotional precision, capturing how two people who love each other can still hurt each other. Issues of class and social status complicate their dynamic even further. THE TIME HOP COFFEE SHOP By Phaedra Patrick This novel offers a grounded look at how long-term relationships can lose their spark and what it takes to find it again. This is a classic “feel-good” story about appreciating the beauty in life’s imperfections. Greta Perks is given the chance to step back into the idealized, scripted world of her past and escape the current struggles of her current life. Ultimately, she must decide whether true love is found in a flawless fantasy or in the difficult, honest work of choosing each other in the real world.

Bringing back a citrus festival isn’t just about celebrating oranges and grapefruits—it’s about honoring the generations who helped shape it. Citrus built this region. Reviving a citrus festival reconnects us to that shared history and creates new memories for today’s families while supporting local growers and businesses. It’s a little nostalgia, a lot of community pride, and proof that some traditions are simply too sweet to let fade away. We sat down with Event Director Lyndsey Venrick from Destroyer Media to find out more about Florida’s Citrus Festival happening on January 31. WHAT INSPIRED FLORIDA’S CITRUS FESTIVAL? (FCF) FCF: The Citrus Festival was a long-standing tradition in Winter Haven for dozens of years. Citrus crops are coming back, and it’s time we honor our local beloved citrus again. Our growing population also means that a lot of residents have no idea about the agricultural history that surrounds them. We hope to educate them on the importance of citrus in our community. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HIGHLIGHT OUR CITRUS ROOTS? FCF: It’s easy to forget about agriculture when you don’t see it every day. You buy your produce at the store and don’t think about the journey it took to get there. But agriculture is still a major financial contributor to this region; it creates hundreds of jobs and improves our local economy. It’s critical that we support our local growers whenever we can to highlight this industry. Science has helped the citrus industry bounce back from greening, and it’s important that we keep it going into the future. HOW WILL FCF BRING OUR CITRUS LEGACY TO LIFE? FCF: If you’ve lived here for any length of time, you’ve undoubtedly heard from someone, “This all used to be orange groves.” It’s hard to imagine that when you are driving in traffic past shopping centers and large buildings, but citrus really was the core of Polk County. It’s what brought people to this region for decades. You’ll be able to take a look back and realize, wow! This really was all orange groves! We encourage visitors to stop by the Polk County Farm Bureau History Exhibit to learn about the Citrus Label Trail and start an exciting scavenger hunt, too. TELL US HOW FCF WILL BALANCE FUN, EDUCATION, AND COMMUNITY CONNECTION? FCF: We’ve got some amazing local partners providing engaging booths throughout the event that not only teach you about the history of citrus in our area, but also the future! The Polk County History Center and the Lake Wales History Museum will have interactive educational exhibits, Florida Coast Equipment is bringing a line of agricultural tractors and vehicles that the kids can explore, and other community partners will be set up to offer crafts, activities, and more! We’ll have a large market full of vendors offering citrus treats, handmade gifts, and more. We’re bringing back some of the kitschy favorites from past Citrus Festivals including the Blue Ribbon Art Show, Grove Showcases, and even a citrus pie-eating contest! To keep the kids entertained, we’ll have a Touch-A-Tractor experience, KidZone activities, and craft booths. For the adults, we’ve got live music, a beer and wine tent, a market, and more. Plus, local groves are still thriving in our community. Visitors can meet the grove owners, sample their fruit, and learn about our agricultural community. WHAT’S ONE DETAIL ABOUT THE EVENT THAT PEOPLE MIGHT NOT EXPECT? FCF: We’ll be having a juicing contest on the stage! Imagine a hot dog-eating contest, but we’ll see who can fill a pitcher with orange juice the fastest! Visit our social media to sign up to participate and maybe you’ll take home the trophy! WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT FROM THE FOOD & DRINK VENDORS? FCF: Every vendor on-site will offer at least one citrus themed specialty item. Vendors are bringing orange sorrel drinks, lemon-glazed empanadas, orange Julius, orange baklava, citrus chicken skewers, citrus-infused baked treats, and more! We will have numerous tables and chairs scattered throughout the park so you can sit back and enjoy the event all day. Everyone loves a mimosa, but being a citrus festival, we know that the OJ is really the star of the show. At our Reverse Mimosa Bar, you’ll get to pick the specific grove and fruit juice to mix with your bubbles. WHAT’S THE ENTERTAINMENT PLANNED FOR THAT DAY? FCF: We will have live music performances by Coastal Acoustic Barefoot Music, “Ace” Jackson and the Jump Kings, and Phoenix 5. Plus, we will have on-stage competitions like the pie-eating and juicing contests. TELL US ABOUT THE BLUE RIBBON ART SHOWCASE. FCF: The Blue Ribbon Art Showcase will be reminiscent of art shows that you’d find at a state fair – think traditional mediums plus fun things like quilts, needlepoint, and more! Professional and novice artists alike can apply and have their work seen by the community. We even have a youth category for any young artists wanting to participate. A panel of local judges will award prizes to each category, including a Best in Show. The art will be on view in the Blue Ribbon Art Showcase tent during the festival. HOW DO YOU HOPE FCF STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY PRIDE? FCF: Polk County residents like to get hung up on traffic, overpopulation, and other issues, but we really are so fortunate to live here. We’re surrounded by local farms, fresh and delicious produce, and unbelievable nature and wildlife. I’m hopeful this event can remind our citizens of the magic of our area. This is the festival version of touching grass. WHAT’S YOUR LONG-TERM VISION FOR FCF? FCF: We would love to grow this event into a full weekend of fun. This would allow us to add on more attractions, more live entertainment… and who knows? We might even bring back the Citrus Parade! FLORIDA’S CITRUS FESTIVAL January 31, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Central Park, Winter Haven FB @floridascitrusfestival floridascitrusfestival.com

ORIGINS & EARLY GROWTH (1500S–LATE 1800S) Oranges were first planted in Florida by early Spanish explorers (near St. Augustine) and over centuries citrus spread across the peninsula; commercial-scale production expanded after the Civil War when railroads enabled shipping to northern markets. Central Florida — including Polk County — became a major citrus-growing region in the late 19th century as settlers planted groves and rail links allowed crate shipments (many of the decorative crate labels you still see were part of that marketing era). CATASTROPHE AND RESILIENCE: THE GREAT FREEZE (1894–1895) The Great Freeze (December 1894 and February 1895) devastated citrus across much of Florida, killing fruit and trees and forcing many growers to move south. Polk County was hard hit, but the region and the industry gradually recovered and re-planted in lower-risk areas while retaining a large citrus presence in Central Florida. INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH (1910S ONWARD) Polk County growers helped establish the University of Florida’s Citrus Experiment Station in Lake Alfred in 1917 (today the Citrus Research and Education Center, CREC). CREC became — and remains — one of the world’s largest citrus research facilities, central to disease, breeding, and production research for Florida citrus. 20TH-CENTURY EXPANSION AND MID-CENTURY PEAK Through the mid-1900s, Florida citrus production expanded dramatically (hundreds of millions of boxes by mid-century), with Polk County often among the top producing counties due to its favorable soils and infrastructure. Marketing, processing (juice plants), packinghouses, and an entire local economy grew up around citrus. DISEASE OUTBREAKS, REGULATION, AND NEW THREATS (1910S–2000S) Citrus canker: an early-introduced bacterial disease (first recorded introductions in the early 1900s, with later outbreaks in the late 20th century) led to eradication and regulatory programs that sometimes required removal of healthy trees near infected sites — a major social and economic issue when outbreaks recurred. Hurricanes: repeated hurricanes (notably in the 2000s and 2010s) periodically damaged groves, packinghouses and infrastructure in Polk and surrounding counties, compounding stresses on growers. THE CITRUS-GREENING (HLB) ERA AND DECLINE (2005–PRESENT) HLB (Huanglongbing/citrus greening) was first detected in Florida in the mid-2000s and is now the single greatest biological threat the industry has faced. The bacterium (spread by the Asian citrus psyllid) causes progressive tree decline and very poor fruit; there is no simple cure at scale. Polk County, historically one of the largest citrus counties, has seen dramatic reductions in productive acreage and yields because of HLB plus storm losses and land-use change. Acreage and production numbers have fallen sharply since the early 2000s; many groves have been abandoned, converted to development, or consolidated by remaining growers. This contraction has affected local employment, processing infrastructure, and ancillary businesses. Sources stated that statewide, the industry that used to produce as many as 220 million boxes of citrus will realize less than 15 million boxes in 2025. RECENT DEVELOPMENTS & RESPONSES (RESEARCH, BIOTECH, LAND USE) Research & mitigation: CREC, UF/IFAS, and federal/ state programs have focused on HLB research (vector control, resistant/rootstock breeding, tree injections, and novel approaches like gene-editing). Some growers are experimenting with protected (screened) production, intensive vector control, or testing new rootstocks/varieties. Land-use change: rapid population growth and development pressure in Polk County mean some former groves are being sold for housing and commercial uses; this accelerates the reduction in citrus acreage even when disease impact is managed locally. Primary sources for this summary: • 1 University of Florida / CREC — history and research updates on citrus and HLB. • 2 Florida Citrus Industry historical overview (Florida Citrus Federation / state archives). Recent reporting on industry decline, weather impacts and development pressures (AP, The Guardian, regional outlets)

OATCAKES Makes 12 yummy oatcakes 3 cups (300 grams) rolled oats 2 cups (225 grams) spelt flour or whole wheat pastry flour (I used All-Purpose Flour) 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 4 teaspoons salt 1/4 cup (45 grams) flax seeds 3/4 cup (85 grams) walnuts, chopped 1/3cup (70 grams) extra virgin coconut oil 1/3 cup (85 grams) unsalted butter 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) maple syrup 1/2 cup (70 grams) natural cane sugar 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 1. Preheat oven to 325 F. Spray or oil a 12-cup muffin pan. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking powder, salt, flax seeds and walnuts. 3. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the coconut oil, butter, maple syrup and sugar. Stir just until the butter melts and the sugar has dissolved, but do not let the mixture get too hot. You don’t want to cook the eggs on contact in the next step. 4. Pour the coconut oil mixture over the oat mixture. Stir a bit with a fork, add the eggs and stir again until everything comes together into a wet dough. Spoon the dough into the muffin cups, nearly filling them. 5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges of each oatcake are deeply golden. Remove the pan from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before transferring cakes to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Submitted by Vic King from Strong Sites. “These oatcakes are a staple in our household of five. They’re dense and delicious … and they’re not half bad for you!” LUCIOUS LEMON CHIFFON PIE 16 ounces Camellia Groves Lemon Curd 2 8-ounce packages of cream cheese 1 9-inch pie crust (graham or regular) 1 quart container Cool Whip 1. Soften cream cheese and with an immersion blender (or by hand), then blend cheese and lemon curd together until smooth. 2. Pour into room temperature pie crust and top with Cool Whip. Refrigerate 4 hours. Submitted by Martha Burke, Camellia Groves, Winter Haven. “This takes 10 minutes!! So easy, anyone can make this and be proud. Order your lemon curd by Thursday and pick it up on a Sunday at noon. Curd can be frozen to save for later.” camelliagroves.com ARROZ CON LECHE COLOMBIANO 2 cups white jasmine rice 3 cups water 1 (14-ounce) can condensed milk 5 cups whole milk 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/8 teaspoon salt (optional) 1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water is on the clearer side, only slightly cloudy. Add the rinsed rice to a Dutch oven with water and cook on low heat. 2. Once the water has evaporated, the rice will be partially cooked. Add the whole, condensed, and evaporated milk to the cooked rice. Add the cinnamon and vanilla extract, stir, and cover. Cook for 30 minutes on low heat. 3. After 30 minutes, remove the cover and stir well. Increase the heat slightly to get the milk to come to a quick boil, stir, and turn the heat off. (Note: don’t worry if the milk still seems a little runny at first – the rice will keep absorbing it and thicken everything up even after it’s off the heat.) 4. To serve, pour the rice pudding into a bowl or small mug. Sprinkle cinnamon on top and enjoy the creamy goodness (warm or cold)! Tips: Cook on low heat to prevent the rice from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot. It’s important to keep an eye on it and give it a stir using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. The sugar in the milk, especially the condensed milk, can crystallize and burn much quicker, so it’s best to be cautious. By stirring it regularly, you’ll get a delicious and creamy dessert without any burnt bits. I prefer to use a silicone spatula to stir the mixture; it helps to remove any pieces that have started sticking to the bottom. Add raisins in step 3 if desired. Recipe by Carolina Suarez from The Blind Shack of Central Florida. “This creamy Colombian arroz con leche (rice pudding) is one of my favorite desserts to make. I love the way the rice, milk, and sugar come together—it’s so simple but so good. It’s perfect warm or chilled, and I always make it when I want to share something special with my family.” DATE BREAD 1/2 pound dates, pits removed 1 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 cup boiling water poured over dates and allowed to cool 1 egg yolk 3/4 cup sugar 1 3/4 cups flour 1/2 cup walnut meats, chopped 1 egg white, beaten stiff Mix together and bake in a slow oven – about one hour. Submitted by Jane McGinnis. “I am sharing a recipe from my mother’s cookbook. I loved it every Christmas when Mom would bake this delicious bread. She noted the recipe ‘Date Bread 6-18-33 Mary Perry.’ Mary Perry owned the Cottage House Inn in Readsboro, VT for more than forty years. In the early 1920s, after my mother graduated from Bliss Business College, she accepted a position as secretary to A. B. Clark, President of the Readsboro Chair Company, and boarded at Mrs. Perry’s inn. Mary Perry passed away in 1971 and was Readsboro’s oldest resident at ninetyone. Coincidentally, Mrs. Perry was also the great-grandmother of the late actor Matthew Perry.” IMPERIAL BROWNIES 4 squares Baker’s Unsweetened Chocolate 2 sticks Imperial Margarine 2 cups sugar 1/2 cup milk 4 eggs 1 cup flour 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 teaspoon salt 1. Melt chocolate and margarine together in a 200 F oven. Let cool slightly. 2. Hand stir ingredients in this order: sugar, milk, eggs, flour, vanilla, and finally the salt. 3. Bake in a greased pan for 45 minutes at 350 F, until your toothpick comes out clean. 4. When cool, dust with powdered sugar and add seasonal sprinkles. Submitted by Susan Mayrant. “These rival Mrs. Field’s brownies and I have made them since I was a kid. You don’t even need a mixer as I just mix together with a fork!” STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE TORTE 1 cup milk 1/4 cup butter 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 eggs 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 3 teaspoons baking powder teaspoon salt Cream Cheese Filling (recipe below) 1 pint cleaned, fresh strawberries, sliced 1. In a small saucepan, bring milk to a boil. Add butter. Set aside. 2. In a large bowl, blend sugar, vanilla and eggs. Beat at high speed for 3 minutes until thick and lemon colored. 3. Add flour, baking powder and salt. Beat 1 minute at low speed. Add milk-butter mixture. Beat 1 minute more at low speed. 4. Pour into well-buttered and floured 10-inch springform pan.* Bake at 350 F for 55 to 65 minutes or until a tester inserted in center comes out clean. Cool thoroughly. Remove from pan. 5. Split cooled cake into 3 layers. Fill between layers with about 3/4 cup filling, placing sliced strawberries on top of filling before stacking cake. 6. Frost stacked cake with Cream Cheese Filling. Press about 1 cup through pastry bag to decorate top. Garnish with more berries. Chill until ready to serve. CREAM CHEESE FILLING: Whip 1 pound (2 8-ounce packages) room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Beat in 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 pint whipping cream until mixture is very light and fluffy. TIP: Cake can be made several hours before serving or the day before, but should be covered and refrigerated so it will not absorb odors from other foods. *Submitted by Carolee Cheney. “This is a favorite of many! I use 2 round cake pans rather than a springform pan, slicing each cake in two making a 4-layered cake instead of 3. The cake weighs a ton, but a slice is light as a feather.” SOFT CANNOLI COOKIES 1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs 1/2 cup ricotta cheese 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups all-purpose flour 10 ounces chocolate chips powdered sugar (for the drizzle on top) cocoa powder (for the drizzle on top) ground cinnamon (for the drizzle on top) 1. In a bowl, mix butter and sugar until fluffy. 2. Add eggs and ricotta and mix until well combined. Next, mix in vanilla, cinnamon and orange zest. 3. Mix in flour baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add chocolate chips. Refrigerate dough for about 30 minutes. 4. Preheat oven to 350 F. 5. On a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, use a small cookie scoop and drop the cookie dough, leaving some space between cookies. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. 6. After they cool, mix together cocoa powder, cinnamon and powdered sugar, and slowly add a little bit of water until it’s creamy enough to be drizzled on top of cookies. 7. Let the glaze set and enjoy them! Submitted by Maria Grazia Lutricusi. “I’m Italian and I bake all kinds of Italian desserts. My company name is Sugar Ribbon by Mary. I’m usually at the makers market at Lakeside Village every second Sunday of the month. I would like to share one of my favorite cookie recipes that brings in one bite, all of the Italian cannoli flavors.” PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP BREAD 2 cups flour 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1 1/2 sticks butter (room temperature) 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice 2 eggs 1 (15-ounce) can organic pumpkin 1/2 cup chocolate chips 1. Preheat oven to 325 F and butter two loaf pans. 2. In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and pumpkin spice. 3. In a second bowl, add softened butter and sugar. Beat the butter and sugar with a hand mixer until combined. (1-2 minutes) 4. Add the eggs one at a time and continue beating until smooth. 5. Add the pumpkin and blend on medium. 6. On low speed, add in the flour mixture and chocolate chips until combined. 7. Pour the batter into the two loaf pans and bake on the middle rack, checking at one hour. 8. Allow the pumpkin bread to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing from the pans. (the hardest part!) 9. Enjoy!! Submitted by Bailey Hill from Captivate Digital Creative.