EPCOT FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW Throughout May at EPCOT. Walk around the world to see the perfectly trimmed topiaries and flowers. Try international food from over 20 outdoor kitchens, see a live show at the Garden Rocks Concert Series, shop for limited edition merch, check out Exhibit Hall, and don’t forget the Instagram-worthy selfies. SHAKEN & STIRRED Learn how to make upscale cocktails in an intimate setting at The Edison at Disney Springs at 1 p.m. May 9: Gin vs. Vodka Core Cocktail. It’s the great martini debate. Learn the techniques to shake (or stir) your perfect version. May 23: Frozen. Beat the heat and learn to create elevated frozen cocktails. Registration required. theedisonfla.com NIGHT BIKE TOUR Explore Orlando after dark on a guided bike ride through Downtown and nearby neighborhoods. You’ll make stops at a few local favorite bars with time to grab a drink. The route moves through Downtown, Mills 50, and Ivanhoe Village. Bikes and helmets are provided. The ride is relaxed and welcoming. orlandobiketours.com MOTHER’S DAY IKEBANA May 3 at 2 p.m. at Leu Gardens. Make a traditional Japanese Ikebana floral arrangement for Mother’s Day for yourself or to give as a gift. You will learn how to arrange flowers with simplicity, seasonality, movement, and harmony. All materials are provided. Register in advance, includes admission to the Gardens. leugardens.org GUIDED KAYAKING Go kayaking in crystal clear kayaks at Rock Springs with crystal clear water, only a short distance from Orlando. This adventure includes an intermediate paddle upstream through Emerald Cut starting from Kings Landing, with a relaxing drift back to the launch site. Groups are small, open every day. Register online at getupandgokayaking.com. ORLANDO PRIDE SC Watch the National Women’s Soccer League team, Orlando Pride, play three times at home in May at the Inter&Co Stadium. They play the Washington Spirit on May 2 at 4 p.m. They go up against the North Carolina Courage on May 8 at 8 p.m. Finally, they play the Bay Football Club on May 29 at 7 p.m. orlandocitysc.com/pride BIRDS OF NORTH AMERICA May 1 – 31 at Theater On The Edge (TOTE). John and his daughter Caitlyn are birders. This play takes a close look at their relationship over a decade. TOTE is a cinematic theater experience with immersive sets, cinematic elements, and the energy of a live performance. It’s like watching a film live onstage. theaterontheedge.org ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL May 12 – 25 at various locations in Orlando. Guests will love the live entertainment, unique theatre experiences, visual art displays, kid-friendly shows and activities, and free outdoor concerts. It’s a full celebration of independent artists, and it’s the oldest Fringe Festival in the US. Full schedule and ticket info at orlandofringe.org. THE MILK RUN 5K May 2, 7:30 a.m. Participants will run through the historic streets of Downtown Orlando while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Milk District. TG Lee Dairy will host an after-party with plenty of fun and milk for everyone. Participants are encouraged to dress in cow or milkthemed costumes. The Kid’s HalfPint Fun Run is for ages 7 and under. More info on FB @TheMilkDistrict. SAMANTHA BEE May 17 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Dr. Phillips Center. Samantha Bee keeps it real in this one-woman show called “How to Survive Menopause.” She covers everything she’s learned from the ups, downs, and rage rollercoasters of menopause. This show is perfect for anyone who’s going through it, has gone through it, or will be going through it. drphillipscenter.org

TELETHON May 7 at 6 p.m. until May 8 at 6 p.m. Parker Street Ministries is hosting a 24-hour Livestream Telethon, a day filled with stories, worship, generosity, and community. Every hour will showcase the impact of their year-round programs, highlight community partners, and invite viewers to give toward transforming lives in the Parker Street neighborhood and beyond. psmlakeland.org 1776 May 22 – 24 at Lakeland Community Theatre. This musical follows key Founding Fathers, including John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson, as they grapple with the decision to declare independence from the British monarchy. This performance showcases the challenges they faced that led to the birth of a new nation. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com BANDIT MARKET SUMMER PARTY May 2, noon – 5 p.m. at Bowen Yard. Celebrate the tenth Bandit Market with us! Summer is hot, but Bandit Market is hotter! Shop the coolest vendors from all over Central Florida for vintage clothing & homeware, original art, handmade pieces, baked goods, and more. Enjoy live music & more surprises to celebrate the tenth market! IG @thebanditmarket WALTER PARKS May 17, 7 p.m. at Gram Parsons Derry Down in Winter Haven. Walter Parks grew up in North Florida. His research and unique reimagining of the hollers, hymns, and reels of swamp homesteaders are archived in The Library of Congress. Walter is the leader of two Americana roots groups, Swamp Cabbage (electric-folk/rock) and The Unlawful Assembly (reimagined spirituals). gpderrydown.com WELCOME TO WAADIZI, MICHIGAN! Congratulations to local author, Dwight L. MacPherson! His book, “Welcome to Waadizi, Michigan!” is available to order as a hardcover, paperback, or eBook on Amazon. In Waadizi, Michigan, people vanish. Memory erodes. Truth sinks. Through interconnected stories, one man’s search for his missing mother uncovers the terrifying secret his town has learned to live with. AAPI CULTURAL CELEBRATION May 9, 6 – 9 p.m. at Bonnet Springs Park. Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage with performances, food, and fun for the whole family. Groups from Japan, India, Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, Tonga, Samoa, and beyond take the stage, while local vendors serve up authentic Asian and Polynesian cuisine. FREE to attend and open to all. bonnetspringspark.com FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE May 8, 6 p.m. at Munn Park. Hear country music recording artist Eli Mosley brings his signature sound & strong vocals. This free, familyfriendly event will have a wide variety of food and drink vendors, along with local vendors to shop. Bring your chairs and blankets for an evening of live music under the stars in Downtown Lakeland. downtownlkld.com SPCA RUN FOR THEIR LIVES 5K May 23, 7 a.m. at Peterson Park in Lakeland. Run or walk with your four-legged companion. Enjoy a continental breakfast, an awards ceremony, and the powerful feeling of knowing your participation helps give animals a second chance. Every step supports compassion, community, and hope. spcaflorida.org MAYFAIRE BY-THE-LAKE May 9 & 10 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on the shores of Lake Morton in Downtown Lakeland. Mayfaire features more than 150 artist booths and is one of the oldest arts festivals in Central Florida. Mayfaire has been ranked among Sunshine Artist Magazine’s “200 Best Art Shows” for ten years in a row. mayfairebythelake.org FAIRYTALE TREATS May 31, 4 p.m. at Enchanted Fairytale Hollow. Join Moana for themed refreshments, an immersive stage show & storybook experience incorporating storytelling, costume changes, interactive activities, and sing-alongs. Plus, a Meet and Greet with Photo Op. Must register in advance, find more info on FB @EnchantedFairytaleHollow.

BANDIT MARKET SUMMER PARTY May 2, noon – 5 p.m. at Bowen Yard. Celebrate the tenth Bandit Market with us! Summer is hot, but Bandit Market is hotter! Shop the coolest vendors from all over Central Florida for vintage clothing & homeware, original art, handmade pieces, baked goods, and more. Enjoy live music & more surprises to celebrate the tenth market! IG @thebanditmarket BEETLEJUICE JR. May 14 – 24 at Theatre Winter Haven. Based on the hit Broadway musical and the beloved Tim Burton film. Packed with catchy songs, wild characters, and ghoulish humor, “Beetlejuice Jr”. is a spooky, high-energy musical that proves sometimes the afterlife can be a lot more fun than the living world. theatrewinterhaven.com FIRST FRIDAY CAR SHOW May 1, 5 – 8 p.m. along Magnolia Ave between 2nd St SW & 3rd St SW in Downtown Winter Haven. Check out all of the cool classic and exotic cars or bring your own to show off. No need to register, just drive up and park. While you’re Downtown, walk around and check out the bars & restaurants for their First Friday specials. More info FB @whfirstfriday. MOTHER’S DAY AT BOK May 10, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Bok Tower Gardens. Celebrate Mom with a beautiful day in the Gardens. The Shop at Bok has the perfect gifts to make her day special. Treat Mom to lunch or ice cream at The Blue Palmetto Cafe. Carillon Concerts at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Free admission is offered to all mothers. boktowergardens.org WELCOME TO WAADIZI, MICHIGAN! Congratulations to local author, Dwight L. MacPherson! His book, “Welcome to Waadizi, Michigan!” is available to order as a hardcover, paperback, or eBook on Amazon. In Waadizi, Michigan, people vanish. Memory erodes. Truth sinks. Through interconnected stories, one man’s search for his missing mother uncovers the terrifying secret his town has learned to live with. AAPI CULTURAL CELEBRATION May 9, 6 – 9 p.m. at Bonnet Springs Park. Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage with performances, food, and fun for the whole family. Groups from Japan, India, Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, Tonga, Samoa, and beyond take the stage, while local vendors serve up authentic Asian and Polynesian cuisine. FREE to attend and open to all. bonnetspringspark.com LUAU PARTY May 2, 5 p.m. at Grove Roots Brewery. Throw on your best luau attire and celebrate the night in Hawaiian style! Here’s what to look forward to: Hawaiian-inspired plate dinner, pineapple slushee station, Hula dancers, and Fire dancers. Find the full schedule and more info on FB @groverootsbrewing SPCA RUN FOR THEIR LIVES 5K May 23, 7 a.m. at Peterson Park in Lakeland. Run or walk with your four-legged companion. Enjoy a continental breakfast, an awards ceremony, and the powerful feeling of knowing your participation helps give animals a second chance. Every step supports compassion, and hope. spcaflorida.org MAYFAIRE BY-THE-LAKE May 9 & 10 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on the shores of Lake Morton in Downtown Lakeland. Mayfaire features more than 150 artist booths and is one of the oldest arts festivals in Central Florida. Mayfaire has been ranked among Sunshine Artist Magazine’s “200 Best Art Shows” for ten years in a row. mayfairebythelake.org KAYAK ECOTOUR May 23, 9 a.m. at Lake Silver in Winter Haven. The City of Winter Haven’s Natural Resources Division is hosting a series of kayak ecotours on various lakes in Winter Haven. These tours will be short (within 3 hours) but information-packed trips where residents and visitors can get out on the lakes. Registration begins two weeks before the event. mywinterhaven.com

HOW FLOWERS MADE OUR WORLD By David George Haskell Here is a book that will change the way you look at every flower you walk past. Haskell makes a passionate and scientific case for flowers - magnolias, orchids, roses, and even seagrasses - as the true architects of life on Earth. Far from just being decorative, flowers are the revolutionaries that reshaped our environment and drove our own evolution. Bonus if you read this where you can see our Florida flowers blooming. THE PECULIAR GARDEN OF HARRIET HUNT By Chelsea Iversen Set in 1860s Victorian London, this atmospheric novel follows Harriet, a woman who has spent her whole life with only her overgrown garden for company. When her father, an ill-tempered controlling man, mysteriously disappears - Harriet is the prime suspect. Harriet thinks she will find protection in the arms of a charming man, but not everything is how it seems. She must find the confidence to trust her own power over her circumstances. ART FROM THE GARDEN By Kerry Michaels For the reader who would rather make something than sit still, this gorgeous book is the perfect companion to usher in the warmer months. Artist Kerry Michaels walks readers through 25 step-by-step projects using materials from gardens: pressed flowers, frozen botanical luminarias, cyanotype prints made with a branch and sunshine, vases from twigs, wrapped stones, and more. Beautifully photographed and practically organized, it is the kind of book you prop open and actually use. COOKING WITH FLOWERS By Miche Bacher If you have ever looked at a pot of nasturtiums or a spray of lavender and thought … I wonder if they’re tasty? Well, this cookbook is your answer. Bacher, an herbalist and chef, offers over 100 recipes built entirely around edible blooms, from pansy petal pancakes and rosemary flower margaritas to savory sunflower chickpea salad. There is also guidance on infusing flowers into vinegar, jelly, sugar, and ice cream. A beautiful, practical book that makes your garden feel like a pantry. WHERE THE WILDFLOWERS GROW By Terah Shelton Harris Leigh is the lone survivor of a prison bus crash and knows she must carry on to survive. By chance, she stumbles upon a flower farm tucked away in rural Alabama and finds a family who has built something real from the ruins of their own lives. Harris writes with the kind of compassion that asks readers to sit with themselves for a while. This is an emotional and heartfelt novel examining what it means to stop surviving and start living. THE FLOWER GIRLS By Alice Clark-Platts A child goes missing at a hotel over the holiday season. Among the guests is a woman who, as a young girl, was convicted in a notorious child murder case and has since been living under a new identity. Be warned that this is an unsettling book, with a central question of when a child does something terrible, do they remain guilty forever? This is a dark book with real emotional depth hiding beneath the suspense; the kind of thriller you think about long after you have finished it. THE BEAR By Andrew Krivak It is tricky to describe this book in a way that doesn’t make it sound ominous. A father and daughter, the last two humans on Earth, live close to the land where he teaches her to fish, to hunt, to read the seasons and the stars. And then she is alone. What follows is a fable that somehow is both spare and luminous- it is a survival story that balances between hope and despair. The story is full of magical flora and fauna and a profound sense that the natural world is not lost, only waiting. BROMELIAD HOUSE By Jessika Grewe Glover If you have spent any time in Florida, you will recognize the landscape immediately: the humidity, the sprawling old estate, the sense that something lush and wild is always threatening to take over. Delphine has spent her life seeing the reflections of loved ones just before they die. When she inherits her family’s crumbling estate, the line between the living and the not-quite-dead begins to blur in unsettling ways. Glover’s imagery transports you to a humid and haunted Florida.

JAPANESE GOTHIC By Kylie Lee Baker In this lyrical, wildly inventive horror novel interwoven with Japanese mythology, two people living centuries apart discover a door between their worlds. Baker’s follow-up to “Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng” delivers a violent and thoughtprovoking tale of grief, generational trauma, and colonialism. MODERATION By Elaine Castillo Girlie Delmundo’s digital work as a virtual reality moderator collides with her personal life when she falls for a coworker in Castillo’s second novel following “America Is Not the Heart,” named a best book by NPR, LitHub, NYPL, and more. ONE & ONLY By Maurene Goo A swoony, funny, romantic novel about a woman thrown a curveball by fate, and the family secret that will make her question everything. As she battles between fate and chance, head and heart, she will have to decide if she’ll follow her fate … or make her own. THE TAKE By Kelly Yang A provocative, fast-paced novel about two creative women — a young writer fighting to be heard and an older producer clinging to relevancy — and the age reversal treatment that intertwines both of their lives. THE MIDNIGHT TAXI By Yosha Gunasekera When the last fare of the night turns up dead in her backseat, a Sri Lankan American taxi driver works off the clock to clear her name in this mystery novel by debut author Yosha Gunasekera. DOUBLE HAPPINESS By Heather Eng Mei finally has what she’s always wanted: a job with growth potential and financial security, and Joey, a fiancé who adores her. But when she runs into college professor, Alexandre, at a cookout, their connection makes her rethink everything: her career, her commitment to her company, and even her upcoming marriage to Joey. HOW TO COMMIT A POSTCOLONIAL MURDER By Nina McConigley Summer 1986. The Creel sisters, Georgie Ayyar and Agatha Krishna, welcome their aunt, uncle, and young cousin, newly arrived from India, into their house in rural Wyoming. They’ll all live together, because this is what families do, until the sisters decide that it’s time for their uncle to die. According to Georgie, the British are to blame. MS. MEBEL GOES BACK TO THE CHOPPING BLOCK By Jesse Q. Sutanto A nearly divorced trophy wife enrolls in culinary school to win back her husband, only to find a fresh start in the unlikeliest of places in this new novel from the USA Today bestselling author of Vera Wong’s, “Unsolicited Advice for Murderers.”

Blueberry farming is a growing industry in Polk County, and with so many local growers, it’s a no-brainer to highlight their hard work and delicious crops with a festival! Auburndale has wonderful facilities and is located in the heart of Central Florida, perfect for bringing everyone together for a really fun day! Visit Central Florida has teamed up with Destroyer Media to bring you this fun-filled day. Stop by the festival from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. at the Auburndale’s Downtown City Park on April 11. Here’s what to expect: Pancake Breakfast Start your Polk County Blueberry Festival experience off with a delicious blueberry pancake breakfast presented by Iceberg Home Services from 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.! Restaurants Against Hunger will be serving mini blueberry pancakes, two sausages, and a drink for only $10. The Polk County Blueberry Festival is free to attend, however the pancake breakfast requires purchasing a ticket. You can feel good about having this delicious blueberry pancake breakfast because all proceeds go to Restaurants Against Hunger, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping feed those in need. Thank you to Always Fresh for donating the blueberries, that was “berry” sweet of you. The pancake breakfast will be hosted inside the Auburndale Civic Center. Purchase tickets in advance at centralfloridatix.com . Learn You can’t have a blueberry festival without blueberries! There will be several local blueberry farms on site, where you can meet the farmers, learn about growing blueberries in Polk County, and of course, buy fresh blueberries. There will be an Agricultural Education exhibit sponsored by the Polk County Farm Bureau and hosted by the experts at UF/IFAS. Families will learn everything they need to know to grow their own blueberries. Don’t miss the “Integrated Pest Management for Blueberry Trees Workshop” at 2:30 p.m. in the Civic Center, presented by UF/IFAS. The historic Ephraim M. Baynard House will be open for tours. Baynard, born in South Carolina in 1861, had the house built in 1894 by Alfred Chipman Thorpe. This home is an example of the Folk Victorian architectural style and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Food & Drink The Kemp Injury Law, PA Bar, located at The Depot, will be stocked with ice-cold beer and wine. They will also offer locally made Keel & Curley beverages. Get a drink, grab a table, and enjoy a break. Pro tip: Before heading into the bar, purchase drink tickets at the tent just outside of The Depot. No cash or card will be accepted inside the bar. Everyone will need to show their ID. Don’t forget to tip the bartenders! The food trucks will all have a special blueberry offering just for the event. Expect blueberry lemonade, cookies, BBQ, jams, ice cream, jerky, empanadas, kettle corn, and more. Entertainment On the main stage: 1:30 p.m. Lauris Vidal - One man band sensation! 4:30 p.m. Skinny McGee - Rockabilly, primitive country blues 6:30 p.m. Oak Hill Drifters - Rockabilly, Americana On the Civic Center Stage: 12 p.m. Story Time with No Covers 1 p.m. Jewett School of the Arts Rock Band 2:30 p.m. “Integrated Pest Management for Blueberry Trees Workshop” UF/IFAS workshop. The Language & Literacy Academy for Learning Family Zone offers crafts for kids, interactive inflatable games, and more. Bring the little ones for some fun; parent supervision is required. Spring Haven Senior Living will host Blueberry BINGO in the Senior Center, and it’s free to play. Beginning at 11 a.m., they will call five games at the top of every hour, with the last rounds beginning at 5 p.m. This is a great break from the heat, and you can win prizes! The Blue Ribbon Art Show highlights local amateur artists and makers from Polk County and will be located in the lobby of the Civic Center. Spend some time checking out the art and see who won Best in Show. The Sensory Room will be located inside the Recreation Center. If you or your child needs a quiet break, this is for you. Expect chairs and tables, A/C, no harsh lighting, restrooms, outlets for charging, and quiet. Please be respectful of others in the room; sometimes a slow, quiet space is needed. Schedule subject to change. Contests 11 a.m. - The Blueberry Toss will actually be a blue water balloon toss, but since it’s the Blueberry Festival, we’re calling it a blueberry. Participants will compete in teams of two; one partner will toss the water balloon to the other partner. If the toss is successfully caught without dropping or popping the balloon, the team moves back to the next cone. Each round increases the distance between partners, and the last team with their full balloon, wins! 12 p.m. - The Blueberry Spoon Race gives each participant a spoon with a single blueberry on it. Contestants must carry the spoon while balancing the blueberry on it, navigating through a course of cones. First person to cross the finish line, wins! 3:15 p.m. - The Pie Eating Contest is for anyone ages 13+ and is our most delicious contest. It’s simple, the first person to finish eating their entire blueberry pie, without the use of their hands, wins! To participate in any of the contests, go to polkcountyblueberryfestival.com for the full list of rules and the links to register. Good luck to all! Shopping No festival is complete without a little shopping! The Festival will host 80 local vendors selling handmade goods, vintage finds, plants, home decor, and more. Just like the food vendors, everyone will be bringing special blueberry-themed items just for the festival. Stop by the Blueberry Fest info tent to purchase official Polk County Blueberry Fest merch, including t-shirts, mugs, and more. See You There! We’re really looking forward to this delicious day celebrating one of our favorite and super healthy fruits, the blueberry! BIG thank you to the City of Auburndale for being so kind and gracious with us. They are a dream to work with. To stay updated on what you will find that day, follow us on Facebook and Instagram @polkcountyblueberryfestival or go to polkcountyblueberryfestival.com . Polk County Blueberry Festival April 11, 2026 Pancake Breakfast 10 a.m. - 11:30a.m. Festival 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Downtown City Park 119 W Park St, Auburndale, FL Our Super Friend, The Florida Blueberry! Florida is a top blueberry producer in the U.S. The season runs from March through May, allowing them to hit the market before other regions. Major production occurs in Central Florida. Nearly all commercial acreage is planted with southern highbush cultivars (such as ‘Star’, ‘Emerald’, and ‘Jewel’) designed for Florida’s climate. Native, early commercial attempts failed until the release of lowchill, high-quality, early-ripening cultivars by the University of Florida in the 1970s. Blueberries have some of the highest antioxidant levels among all fruits. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, stopping chain reactions that cause cellular damage. This helps to prevent conditions like heart disease (by reducing oxidized LDL cholesterol) and cancer,prevent or delay skin cell damage from sun exposure, and aid in maintaining overall health by defending against environmental stressors. A single serving (one cup) provides essential fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and only 80 calories.

Florida blueberries are a favorite of many Central Floridians. They are tasty, good for you, and fun to pick at local farms. But did you know that you can also grow blueberries in your home landscape? Thanks to low-chill varieties, with proper site preparation, plant selection, and maintenance, home gardeners in Central Florida can enjoy fresh blueberries right from their own yard. WHAT VARIETIES CAN BE GROWN IN CENTRAL FLORIDA YARDS? Blueberries are native to eastern North America, and Florida is home to several native blueberry species. The highbush (Vaccinium corymbosum) and rabbiteye (Vaccinium ashei) are grown at local farms as well as in home gardens. There is also the Darrow’s blueberry (Vaccinium darrowii) and shiny blueberry (Vaccinium myrsinites), native varieties that homeowners tend to prefer for their size and ease of growth. Blueberries can be successfully incorporated into home landscapes as edible ornamental shrubs that provide spring flowers, attractive foliage, and delicious summer fruit. Southern highbush blueberries cultivars are adapted to mild winters and produce very early fruit, often earlier than blueberries grown anywhere else in North America. Popular southern highbush cultivars include: • ‘Emerald’ • ‘Jewel’ • ‘Springhigh’ • ‘Sweetcrisp’ • ‘Farthing’ Rabbiteye varieties can be easier to grow than the southern highbush and tend to be more drought tolerant. They grow best in areas north of Ocala. Cultivars include: • ‘Beckyblue’ • ‘Bonita’ • ‘Climax’ PLANT MORE THAN ONE VARIETY Most blueberry cultivars require cross-pollination to produce a good crop. This means gardeners should plant at least two different cultivars of the same blueberry type. For example, two southern highbush or two rabbiteye varieties. Pollination by bees is also essential for good fruit set. Encourage bees and other pollinators with nearby flowers and/or a pollinator garden. Planting multiple cultivars can also extend the harvest season, providing an extended crop for several weeks. SITE SELECTION AND GROWING REQUIREMENTS Blueberries have very specific soil requirements. They grow best in acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Ideally, soil pH should be between about 4.0 and 5.5. If you are considering planting them in the ground, you may want to get your soil tested. Most UF/IFAS Extension offices offer this service for a minimal fee. Our Central Florida soils lack organic matter, so consider adding pine bark or other organic materials to improve growing conditions. Blueberries can be grown in containers where it may be easier to create a more acidic environment for them to grow. Here is what else your blueberries will need: • At least 4–5 hours of sunlight daily • Good drainage. Avoid areas that remain wet after rainfall • Adequate space. Rabbiteye plants need about a 7-foot growing area, while southern highbush can grow in a 4-foot space PLANTING AND ESTABLISHMENT Blueberries are typically planted during the winter months before spring growth begins, but they can be planted any time of year. Container-grown plants are widely available and establish well when planted during cooler weather. When planting: 1. Dig a hole that is a few inches shallower than the root ball. 2. Incorporate organic matter such as pine bark (for acidity). 3. Apply mulch to maintain soil moisture, but keep it pulled away from the base of the plant. 4. Water regularly during establishment. Blueberries benefit from organic mulches such as pine bark, pine needles, or wood chips, which help conserve moisture and maintain soil acidity. For more information on planting visit: gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/planting/planting-shrubs . MAINTENANCE Blueberries typically require supplemental irrigation, especially during fruit development or dry periods. Microirrigation is an easy way to make sure you are applying water efficiently to the plants. Annual pruning is also important. Removing older canes encourages new growth, improves plant vigor, and helps maintain fruit size and quality. Mature rabbiteye bushes can reach 6–8 feet tall or more, so pruning helps keep plants manageable in the home landscape. Blueberries should be fertilized following UF/IFAS recommendations. If you are growing blueberries as part of your ornamental landscape, you may not need to add supplemental nutrients. It is important to not over-fertilize your plants as it can damage them. As with most plants in the Central Florida landscape, there are pests that can harm blueberries. Following proper maintenance practices can keep pests at a minimum. There are management options, and we recommend contacting your local UF/IFAS Extension Plant Clinic to determine the best approach. HARVESTING YOUR BLUEBERRIES Depending on the cultivar, blueberries in Central Florida typically ripen from early spring through early summer. Southern highbush blueberries ripen earliest, while rabbiteye varieties generally produce fruit from May through July. Fruit should be harvested when the berries are fully blue and easily detach from the plant. Fresh blueberries are excellent for eating fresh, baking, freezing, and making jams. UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Nutrition expert Andrea Nikolai, shares health information here: blogs.ifas.ufl.edu , and you can find recipes using your homegrown berries here: followfreshfromflorida.com . BLUEBERRIES IN THE FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPE Beyond their delicious fruit, blueberries also make attractive landscape plants. Their spring flowers attract pollinators, and many varieties provide seasonal interest with colorful foliage and compact shrub forms. With the right varieties and proper care, blueberries can become a productive and beautiful addition to central Florida landscapes. If you have any questions about growing blueberries in your Central Florida yard, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at 863-519-1041 or visit us online at: sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk . The Plant Clinic is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. To learn more about gardening and landscaping in Central Florida, listen to the “Your Central Florida Yard” podcast. You can find the podcast wherever you listen or find out more on our Substack: substack.com/@yourcentralfloridayard . An Equal Opportunity Institution. Anne Yasalonis is the Residential Horticulture Extension Agent and Master Gardener Volunteer Program Coordinator for UF/ IFAS Extension Polk County. Please contact her at anneanne@ufl.edu .

It’s that time again, book lovers! Your indie bookstores are hosting the fifth annual Lakeland Book Crawl to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day (April 25, 2026). The Crawl will be a three-day event, running April 23–25, and culminating with a bookish afterparty at Union Hall on Saturday evening. Just like last year, participants can make their stops at all seven participating bookstores between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. every day of the crawl. Each store has its own unique vibe and special celebrations planned, so you won’t want to miss any of the stops along the way. Start your journey by picking up your official Lakeland Book Crawl passport at Bookends in North Lakeland (or any of the participating bookstores), then explore the city’s vibrant independent book scene at your own pace. Collect stamps, enjoy exclusive discounts and events, and connect with fellow readers and local booksellers throughout the weekend. This year, the Lakeland Book Crawl is proud to partner with United Way and ShopMadden to promote childhood literacy initiatives across the community. These partners have generously donated book crawl totes that will be awarded to afterparty attendees who complete the crawl. The afterparty, held at Union Hall, will also include other giveaways and the chance to get to know your local bookish community a little better! Visit lakelandbookcrawl.com for full event details, including book crawl logistics, special offers, community partners, and afterparty information. Stay connected by following Lakeland Book Crawl on Facebook and Instagram @lakelandbookcrawl, as well as each participating bookstore for store-specific updates. Be sure to tag #lakelandbookcrawl in your photos so they can share the fun! BookaReaderville 2120 S Combee Rd, Lakeland BookaReaderville continues a fourdecade-long legacy and is one of the largest used bookstores in Central Florida. They are focused entirely on bringing customers a wide selection of used books at really great prices. Bookends Used Books 5100 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland This bookstore, which just celebrated their 25th anniversary, carries a vast array of genres and categories in both hardcovers and paperbacks. BookEnds offers a trade-in allowance that can be used up toward 50% off your purchase, excluding classics. Crash Bookshop 3125 US-98, Lakeland Operating as a pop-up inside the Somos Building, Crash Bookshop curates thoughtful titles, hosts community-centered events, and creates welcoming spaces for readers and creators of all backgrounds. Inklings Book Shoppe 737 S Missouri Ave, Lakeland Since 1975, Inklings Book Shoppe has been a safe space for all those who wander. Inklings has over 50,000 books in stock, including new, used, antique, collector books, an assortment of games, gifts, puzzles for all ages, and local art. No Covers No Covers, formerly Little Bus Books, is a non-profit mobile bookshop selling new and used books for all ages, including local and regional authors. They are an official 501c(3) and partner with several non-profit organizations across the community to provide free books to individuals and families who have inadequate access to libraries and/or bookstores. Pressed Books & Coffee 213 E Bay St, Lakeland Pressed offers a curated selection of new and used books, ranging in all interests and genres, as well as a full-service coffee bar with locally sourced coffee and baked goods. They host a variety of events including a weekly children’s storytime, author spotlight nights, poetry readings, and book clubs. Unbound Bookery 1026 Florida Ave S, Lakeland This quaint and cozy bungalow bookshop is like no other. They offer a unique selection of antique, vintage, used, and new books as well as services related to locating hardto-find books. Unbound Bookery is proudly independent and womanowned.

L. Shannon Graves comes from a boarding school background. It makes up his entire educational career of 30 years. From St. Petersburg to Hawaii, he’s worked for military and traditional boarding schools. He believes in them. And that belief is ever present as he speaks about the Vanguard School. “It’s a place where kids feel comfortable. Our faculty and staff are on campus. Our residential staff is on campus. Our coaches are on campus. And the students develop a real sense of belonging.” Vanguard, a day and boarding school for grades 6th-12th, is a “hidden crown jewel” many may not be familiar with, in Lake Wales, FL. Graves, the Head of School, wants to uncover this treasure. Graves is proud of the precious trove, its gleaming students and staff, its gorgeous campus and activities, its academic achievements, and its prized community built on care and intention. It’s because it’s small: The school has an enrollment of up to 120. It’s because the teaching is individualized: The middle school class sizes are an average of five students, and the high school classes are an average of seven. It’s because it’s inclusive: Vanguard is all about the strength of the interpersonal connections of everyone on campus. It’s also because six years ago, Graves walked in as the father of a Vanguard student and head of school simultaneously. There’s a greater investment in a mission when it’s a proven benefit to your life. Graves has been invested for the last six years. And every year has proven to be better or as great as the last. “In today’s world, it’s very important to have options for families. More and more students are being diagnosed with learning differences … ADHD … anxiety and so forth, so what we offer is a small, individualized, learning structure that can help,” explains Graves. Families deserve choices when considering where their child can be well-adjusted and thrive. Graves wants for others what he and his wife have seen play out for his son, Koa, who has ADHD and had academic struggles before coming to Vanguard. “The reason I came here was my own son. My junior now, who started [here] in sixth grade, is taking college classes, playing three sports, and is a 5-day border. It’s been a tremendous experience for my wife and I to watch our son’s growth and development.” Koa Graves is but one story of how the accommodations of Vanguard assist in improving and in some cases, eliminating the academic problems of its students. As a parent, Graves notes the empathetic and generous attitudes of the adults at Vanguard. They are people the kids can genuinely trust. Where most kids appreciate their teachers long after they’ve left the classroom, Graves says his students appreciate their teachers in the present. When 80% of the school spends 100% of their time together, when everyone tries to impart kindness, concern, and attentiveness, naturally, this environment will influence positive maturation. As the head of school, Graves lauds the culture the students create and their overall social growth that happens when one is in a place where they feel free to step out of their comfort zones and away from their apprehensions. As both president and parent, Graves recognizes the combination of comfort and connection creates a prime academic space for students. While Vanguard specializes in supporting students with varied learning abilities, that is not a requirement to attend. In fact, the value of the school is in the many different ways they are able to service students. Specialized schools are not always for specialized learning challenges. Sometimes a student needs a smaller group setting, less pressure, or the chance to have their teacher sit at their desk to detail a subject to them in the middle of class without being made a spectacle or a distraction. Sometimes a kid just needs to feel accepted. “In so many places--and it’s not a negative thing, but you hang out with people with like interests, and so you have the football team sitting here, the band sitting here, the theater kids sitting here, the computer kids sitting here … well, we’re such a small place that we’re all those things. And we live with each other,” says Graves. Home to students from 15 states and 15 countries, Vanguard boasts as a multilayered place of diversity. “Our students have a great appreciation for all different cultures and all different people and that’s pretty fabulous to bring into one community. We have kids from all over and because of the relationships, the students from other countries--on smaller breaks (Thanksgiving and Spring Break), stay with families in the states and specifically in Florida. And some of the kids from the states [will] travel and spend three weeks over in Europe, Asia, Turks and Caicos, Bahamas, Germany … and different places. It’s not only important to appreciate where we live locally but understanding the bigger [world] of people, religion, and customs.” When describing the 12-month day and night operation of Vanguard, Graves’ upbeat demeanor takes on another level of energy. He discusses the many school activities, the off-campus errands and adventures with gleeful esteem, “It’s really special … the boarding component of our school. Our teachers are with our kids 24/7, not just 7-3 … a lot of things happen at home from 3 p.m. to 7 a.m. Well, that home is here. And when you’re baking cookies at night or playing cards or playing with a teacher’s kid, or running to Walmart to buy a tie for formal lunch tomorrow … it’s a different relationship.” The boarding school part of Vanguard is a large hook for the institution according to Graves. “[The students are] learning independence and growing up. They’re learning how to live with a roommate before they’re forced to go to college and figure that out. They learn how to get up on their own, brush their teeth, and go to bed.” Graves adds he enjoys seeing confidence emerge from the students as they experience all that is Vanguard. He details how it often comes as a surprise to the families of the children. But not to him … because he always believed. THE VANGUARD SCHOOL 22000 US Highway 27, Lake Wales 863-676-6091 vanguardschool.org Photos Provided

Whether you’ve heard of the three-year champion of the “Best of Florida Food Trucks” or not, you will now. Taco Riendo is a family-owned and operated Mexican cuisine food truck based in Lake Wales, FL, serving their food “Fresh, Hot and Authentic” since 2019. Taco Riendo originally began as an expression of love for sharing homemade tamales with individuals on the weekends out of a Thunderbird. It’s now grown into a family business serving an array of communities in Polk County, Orlando, and Tampa. “My parents were actually the ones that started it,” shared Jessica Cordova, one of the owners, “And when I was nine years old, that’s what I would do. I’d just go with my mom and dad and sell food and help them out.” Daisy, Margarita, Jessica Before they opened, Jessica shared that it’s a dream her family kept coming back to. While they worked other jobs and went through school, they never gave up their passion for cooking for others. “We still kept going, and sometimes friends or family would ask, ‘Can you cook this or that?’ because they knew we were always making food.” When they finally launched their business, they knew it would be rooted in love, kindness, and family traditions learned from previous generations. From starting in their kitchen and solely making tamales for the community, the business has expanded to tacos made with homemade corn tortillas, quesadillas, tortas, and seasonal fruit cups mixed with Tajin, Chamoy, and lime. They also serve unique aguas frescas including the refreshing strawberry horchatas. Vegetarian options include a burrito poblano consisting of poblano peppers with queso fresco and rice on a flour tortilla, and a grilled cactus taco. “We do a lot of different recipes that are very authentic, but also that we feel is with the season,” the owners shared. For example, during the strawberry season, they have strawberry pico de gallo and for New Years they offer lentil soup. When ordering one of their meals, you’ll quickly notice the variety of house-made sauces that set Taco Riendo apart. “We like to play around with our salsas to keep things fresh and new—not just the usual red and green,” Jessica shared. Many of the flavors are inspired by dishes she’s tasted at other restaurants and during trips to Mexico, including a hibiscus salsa that left a lasting impression on her. “I tasted it and thought, I think I can make something like this. I love taking flavors I’ve experienced before and figuring out how to make them our own.” That creativity extends throughout the family, as her mom brings her own specialties to the menu. “My mom makes a peanut salsa with roasted peanuts and chile de árbol,” she shared, “sometimes we get creative.” When sourcing their ingredients, they buy produce from local farmers markets and vendors. Everything is homemade and prepared fresh daily, except for the tamales being prepared the night before and steamed in the morning, ready to fill bellies. The tamales are a personal favorite of Jessica’s and the community. “My mom makes the tamales,” Jessica said, “because she’s the one with the recipes in her head.” For the past five years, Taco Riendo has been located in the parking lot of the Lake Wales Art Council. Before moving there, the truck operated down the road, where it never felt quite right. While exploring other options, they had their eyes set on the Art Council from the start. “I was looking around at options, but I really wanted this spot,” Jessica explained. Knowing it offered more visibility, and with strong relationships already in place with the previous managers who visited often during lunch time, the family took a leap of faith. “We just decided to risk it,” she shared, confident it would be the perfect spot. That decision became reality when they approached the Art Council, who were delighted by their offer! “They told us they would love to have us there,” Jessica shared, “and that since they already loved our food, it would be a good thing for both of us.” Since opening Taco Riendo in that location, they’ve not only served daily visitors but also have had the honor to cater and participate in the Art Council’s events. In addition to catering for the Art Council, they’ve also been invited to a number of festivals including the Orange Blossom Revue, Día de los Muertos, Mardi Gras, turkey drives, weddings at Bella Cosa, and to a business on wheels event called The Roll Up hosted by the Lakeland Film Lab. They are available to cater school functions, private parties, and more. Along with cooking and selling their food, they also love to give back to the community in a different way. This past November they started a food pantry that they thought would last only for the holidays. But as needs in the community have risen, they’ve kept it open. “We were gonna just do it for the holidays because that’s where most people struggle with food,” they shared, “but then people just kept picking food up and bringing food. So we’re just gonna leave it and see what happens.” They’ve also partnered with the Polk Period Pantry to supply their community with essential hygiene products as well. As Taco Riendo looks to the future, the family plans to continue serving their community with the same care and authenticity through their taco truck and a smaller rolling cart designed for indoor events and more intimate gatherings. “For us, it’s about focusing on a smaller scale so we can offer better service and better food,” Jessica shared. That intentional approach reflects the heart of Taco Riendo itself, a family-driven business rooted in kindness, legacy, and connection. The name, meaning “smiling taco,” perfectly captures the warmth, joy, and hospitality they bring to every interaction. With each family member contributing their strengths, from cooking and prep to creative direction and customer care, the business remains personal and hands-on. That same mindset is why the family has chosen flexibility with their business on wheels over a brick-and-mortar location. “We don’t want to commit to a brick-and-mortar because we like to do different events, travel to different places, and get to know different people,” Jessica explained. “When you’re in one spot, you’re waiting for people to come to you, but when you’re moving around, you go to the people.” Taco Riendo is more than a taco truck. It’s a place where a family has extended themselves beyond their own kitchen to serve the community with award-winning food that’s always fresh and prepared how you like it! Visit and follow their social pages to find out where they will be serving next. TACO RIENDO tacoriendolw.com FB & IG @tacoriendotruck Photos by Erick Cordova

There’s a cherished tradition in Puerto Rico, when your cousin or uncle bursts through the door and announces, “I’ve brought the pitorro,” you know the party is about to begin. Pitorro, the island’s answer to American moonshine, is more than just a drink; it’s the heart of party culture, crafted in backyard stills and infused with fruit, then aged to perfection. Every region has its own recipe, and every family has their own secret method. Lugo’s Craft Distillery has carried this legacy from Puerto Rico to Lakeland, via Kentucky, blending heritage with innovation. What sets Lugo’s apart is its family ownership and commitment to natural ingredients, aging their spirits for months—sometimes over a year—to achieve an exceptionally smooth rum. For many Puerto Ricans, pitorro is more than a beverage; it’s a symbol of togetherness, celebration, and the passing down of tradition. The ritual of making pitorro, often in secrecy and with a sense of mischief, is as much about the process as it is about the product. Fruits are carefully selected, recipes are whispered from one generation to the next, and the anticipation builds as the liquor ages on the shelf. It’s a communal experience, one that brings families and friends together, and it’s this spirit of connection that Lugo’s Craft Distillery has sought to recreate in Lakeland. It felt serendipitous to book a tour of Lugo’s Craft Distillery on Valentine’s Day. On this day of romance and connection, my husband Dwight and I joined six others for a one-hour tour to hear the story of Lugo’s origins and its journey to becoming a local favorite. The distillery itself is nestled in a part of Lakeland that has become a hub for craft beverage enthusiasts, and the atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation as we gathered for the tour. Our tour guide welcomed us with a warm smile and immediately set the tone for an afternoon of discovery and camaraderie. He began by recounting the Lugo family’s journey—from their roots in Puerto Rico, through their immersion in Kentucky’s bourbon culture, to their eventual arrival in Lakeland in 2019. Just before the pandemic hit, the family made the bold decision to set up shop, and when faced with the challenges of COVID-19, they pivoted to produce hand sanitizer for the community. Firemen, hospitals, and first responders benefited from their quick thinking and generosity, and Lugo’s quickly became known not just for their spirits, but for their commitment to supporting the community. Led by Co-Founder Peter Lugo, the family operates like a well-oiled machine. Peter brings corporate expertise, honed through years in business, and his passion and drive are evident in every aspect of the distillery. Christian Lugo, with a degree in chemistry, serves as Master Distiller, meticulously overseeing the production process to ensure each batch meets the family’s exacting standards. Ana Lugo manages administration, keeping the business running smoothly, while Anamarie Lugo, a Fortune 500 advertising executive, leads marketing and advertising. Each member’s talents complement the others, creating a harmonious and passionate team that is deeply invested in their products. As the tour progressed, we were led through the production area to learn the intricacies of the distilling process. Lugo’s isn’t your typical distillery; each of their three spirits undergoes four distilling processes, with Puerto Rican rum at the core. The result is a premium blend of real fruits and floral notes, especially in their signature pitorro. Spirits like Riskey Rum, spiced with seven secret ingredients and aged in barrels, evoke warmth. Liberatalia, their tribute to the age of pirates, features thoughtful packaging, a pirate map and ship insignia. The family’s attention to detail is evident everywhere, from the periodic table mural to speakeasy-style lamps. Every element is intentional, designed for a spectacular experience. The tour concluded in an intimate tasting room, where we sampled eight distinct spirits. The space became a hub for sharing stories, one sip at a time. We learned the proper tasting technique: half a shot, hold, drink, breathe in through your nose, out through your mouth. The spirits’ smoothness surprised me; unlike other cocktails, there was no harsh aftertaste. Lugo’s left no heavy feeling or headache. The reactions from fellow guests were delightful, one couple from Ybor City reminisced about Puerto Rico. The experience felt whimsical, as if we’d stepped into Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. Lugo’s has perfected their process, making each beverage a treat. The tasting room itself was a feast for the senses. The walls were adorned with murals and memorabilia that paid homage to both science, a nod to Christian’s chemistry background, and tradition, while the banquet tables, illuminated by soft lighting, created an atmosphere that was both cozy and sophisticated. As we sipped our samples, laughter echoed around the table and the scent of spices lingered in the air. Each spirit told its own story, and the conversations flowed as freely as the drinks. One of the highlights of the tasting was the Nutella Coquito, a creamy, decadent spirit that instantly transported us to childhood memories of candy bars and holiday gatherings. Dwight and I exclaimed in unison, “It tastes like a liquid Almond Joy!” The other guests joined in the chorus of delight, and for a moment, it felt as though we had all been invited into the Lugo family’s kitchen, sharing in their secrets and savoring the fruits of their labor. The communal nature of the tasting was palpable; strangers became friends, and the stories we shared were as much a part of the experience as the spirits themselves. As the afternoon unfolded, we were encouraged by our tour guide to reflect on the traditions that had brought us together. He asked, “Have you ever tasted a spirit that reminded you of a holiday?” For many of us, the answer was yes. Riskey Rum, with its seven secret spices and barrel-aged warmth, conjured memories of Christmas pudding and festive gatherings. Liberatalia, with its piratethemed packaging, sparked conversations about adventure and exploration. Each spirit was a celebration of both heritage and innovation, and the Lugo family’s commitment to quality was evident in every sip. The Lugo family’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and connection. Their ability to adapt during challenging times, their dedication to supporting the community, and their passion for crafting exceptional spirits have made Lugo’s Craft Distillery a beloved fixture in Lakeland. The distillery is more than a place to sample rum, it’s a gathering space, a hub for storytelling, and a testament to the power of tradition. As we raised our glasses together, it became clear that every sip at Lugo’s Craft Distillery is more than a taste—it’s a shared moment, a story, and a celebration of connection. The experience lingered long after the last drop was savored. As we left the distillery, we carried with us not just bottles of Nutella Coquito, but memories of laughter, friendship, and the enduring spirit of Puerto Rican tradition. For those seeking a unique tasting experience, Lugo’s offers one-hour distillery tours and tastings every Saturday, register online. You can find their products at Publix Liquors, Total Wine & More, and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Puerto Rican rum or a newcomer to the world of craft spirits, Lugo’s invites you to join their celebration, to raise a glass, share a story, and become part of their ever-growing community. LUGO’S CRAFT DISTILLERY 2500 Drane Field Road, Lakeland 863-816-3330 lugosraftspirits.com

In the 1970s, the unexplained was never absent from the table — especially in Florida, where strange weather and stranger claims sometimes met. Psychokinesis, or “psi,” the ability to alter either the internal or external environment by mental effort alone, or “mind over matter” was discussed on television, tested in laboratories, and debated in newspapers. Cold War anxieties quietly fueled interest and created government-funded research programs to study whether consciousness itself might be harnessed, measured, or even weaponized. It was in this cultural atmosphere that Ted Owens, known as “The PK Man,” positioned himself not as an entertainer but as an intermediary. His most visible demonstrations would eventually center on Florida, where he claimed macro-psychokinetic ability — not the bending of spoons, but the bending of storm systems: hurricanes, droughts, lightning strikes, and electrical disturbances through his contacts with “Space Intelligences.” Though the name Ted Owens, or his self-given moniker “The PK Man,” may be less frequently repeated within parapsychological circles today, he stands at the intersection of the early contactee movement, governmental research into remote viewing, the evolution of ancient practices in weather modification, and the enduring question of human ability. Psychologist Jeffrey Mishlove spent ten years studying Owens in the seventies, eventually writing “The PK Man” about the experience. In interviews, he provides the contextual framework for a time when cultural belief held that we were on the precipice of improvement in human development through new understandings of human ability and personal computing. The reverberations of possibility are powerful enough to be felt even when only trace amounts survive in faded print or archival scans, especially when juxtaposed with the ethical concerns pinned to the shirt of technological advance and our ever-material current cultural mindset. The phenomenon of Ted Owens is inseparable from those years. He was a mixed bag, a case that couldn’t easily be ignored and would likely still make strange days stranger today — a man who wrote letters about his contacts with space intelligences to the FBI. Born in Bedford, Indiana in 1920, Owens described a childhood shaped by instability but also by what he believed was inherited psychic sensitivity. He spoke often about relatives who practiced dowsing or claimed prophetic abilities, framing his own development as less an anomaly and more a continuation. By his account, his earliest experiences included spontaneous levitation and vivid internal communications that he later interpreted as early contact attempts. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II — where he trained in electronics before deployment to the South Pacific — Owens became increasingly interested in the relationship between mind and matter. His association with parapsychologist J. B. Rhine at Duke University placed him near one of the few academic environments taking extrasensory perception seriously. That proximity reinforced his belief that psychic ability was measurable and documentable. By the mid-1960s, Owens’ framework shifted from personal psychic development to extraterrestrial collaboration. He claimed that “space intelligences” had been attempting contact since childhood and were now using him as an experimental intermediary — a human capable of channeling unusually high levels of psychokinetic force. He described himself as a test case through whom non-human intelligence could determine how much PK power a human could absorb and withstand. He began attempting larger and more public manifestations: influencing storms, directing UFO displays, predicting disasters, and mailing advance warnings to authorities and researchers. His interest in using his ability for good was as strong as his insult when he felt proper thanks or acknowledgment were withheld. Owens’ claims were not confined to conversation. For decades, he mailed letters outlining predictions and demonstrations to scientists, journalists, and government offices, leaving behind a paper trail of thousands of pages. According to Mishlove, Owens would spend a Saturday with a bottle of Scotch and multiple television sets playing games that he believed he could manipulate by causing the team slated to win to fumble the ball. By the time he abandoned conventional employment in 1969 to focus entirely on psychokinetic work, Owens was no longer trying simply to prove he had abilities. He was trying to prove he had a role. The most cited Florida episode occurred in 1979, when southern portions of the state were suffering from the worst drought in decades. Owens proposed what he described as a yearlong demonstration of weather control beginning March 1, coordinated with tabloid journalist Wayne Grover of the National Enquirer. In letters sent that month, Owens outlined phenomena he intended to produce violent storms, electromagnetic disturbances, blackouts, heat waves, hurricanes, and UFO appearances. On April 15, after Grover reportedly asked him to intervene and end the drought, Owens promised rainfall within weeks. Roughly ten days later, heavy storms moved through the region. Owens cited the timing as evidence of psychokinetic influence. Skeptics noted that Florida’s spring weather patterns are complex and that storms are not uncommon, though the correspondence had been documented in advance. The relationship between Owens and the tabloid deteriorated after a failed attempt to capture UFO footage connected to the demonstration. Feeling betrayed, Owens wrote on May 15 that he would restore drought conditions to Florida. That summer saw dramatically reduced precipitation in parts of the state, and water rationing was implemented in areas including the Florida Keys. Once again, Owens claimed responsibility. Later that year, he made one of his boldest Floridalinked assertions. On August 22, 1979, Owens phoned Grover, stating that a hurricane he had forecast months earlier was forming but would be moderated to prevent unnecessary deaths. That storm became Hurricane David. Owens later wrote that he had “cooled the cane,” suggesting he had psychokinetically weakened the storm. Hurricane David did diminish in strength before impacting Florida and shifted elements of its projected path. Meteorologists attributed the changes to atmospheric conditions. Owens attributed them to extraterrestrial collaboration. Whether one sees coincidence, confirmation bias, self-mythologizing, or something genuinely unexplained, Owens’ Florida years remain the most vivid intersection between his claims and observable environmental events. In a decade when many Americans were willing to entertain the possibility that consciousness itself might influence matter, his insistence that droughts and hurricanes could respond to intention did not feel entirely detached from the shared imagination. Our cultural moment is often closer to something we’d call unfathomable, unimaginable, and unprecedented than merely unexplainable. The world we know is replaced daily by one that would make Nostradamus choose his words carefully. But if we could hear the watercooler conversations and newspaper reactions of the seventies — the era of Vietnam, Kent State, Watergate, the anti-war protests, civil rights movements, disco, punk rock, and new experiments in film — we might hear sentiments that sound remarkably familiar. The difference between decade past and present is that the seat we once reserved at our shared table — the one for the unexplained — sits empty more often than occupied. Belief being no prerequisite to the art of wonder, we owe the perplexities of today an invitation — if only to bring us back to the same table, where we may become closer companions in our confusion in a tradition older than our moment. More than a century ago, writer Charles Fort collected reports of unusual events that appeared in newspapers and public records — including accounts of frog rain and objects falling from the sky. He believed that if something happened, and someone wrote it down, it was worth remembering, especially if it was not invited into the everyday. His work gave rise to a tradition of documenting unusual occurrences now known as the “Fortean.” Join IV Horn in an exploration of the strange behind our sunshine, where Florida’s curious histories, unexplained events, and enduring mysteries are revisited in the spirit of Fort’s archive of the unusual.