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“Dear Art, had to fax when I heard other time travelers calling in from any time past the year 2500 AD. Please let me explain. Time travel was invented in 2034. Off-shoots of certain successful fusion reactor research allowed scientists at CERN to produce the world’s first contained singularity engine. The basic design involves rotating singularities inside a magnetic field. By altering the speed and direction of rotation, you can travel both forward and backward in time. Time itself can be understood in terms of connected lines. When you go back in time, you travel on your original timeline. When you turn your singularity engine off, a new timeline is created due to the fact that you and your time machine are now there. In other words, a new universe is created. To get back to your original line, you must travel a split second farther back and immediately throw the engine into forward without turning it off.” — The first fax attributed to John Titor, sent to Art Bell on Coast to Coast AM, July 29, 1998 This month, the strange behind our sunshine will take us into the events of a more recent past and toward the possible future described by a soldier based in Tampa, Florida, from the year 2036 — or the fictional future featured within a fantastic Florida-based hoax. Let me urge you, dear reader, to employ the view which I believe provides the best framework for enjoying this variety of unbelievable. In the unraveling of an outrageous claim to reality, a new picture emerges: a work of fantasy, a story living in both the real and fictional worlds. Even as we begin to see the strings, as the truth emerges and the curtain slips back to reveal the creators, we are still left with the strange story of someone telling a strange story. A hoax is a creative work, the best leaving behind a loophole to challenge the eventual debunking. The story of John Titor arrived during a moment already in the midst of a time-centric phenomenon characterized by uncertainty about the future. In the years approaching the Year 2000 — Y2K — widespread anxiety developed around the possibility of technological collapse. Many feared that older computer systems, which often stored years using only the final two digits, would interpret “00” as 1900 rather than 2000. Predictions ranged from harmless software glitches to catastrophic infrastructure failure. Some believed airplanes could fall from the sky, banks could lose financial records, power grids could shut down, or nuclear defense systems could malfunction. At the same time, night creatures all over the country spent their evenings listening to a late-night talk radio show, one that has provided me with my own treasured method of time travel. Broadcast to listeners across the country during the quiet hours after midnight, Coast to Coast AM, hosted by Art Bell, blended paranormal speculation, conspiracy theories, UFO encounters, fringe science, prophecy, ghost stories, government secrecy, and open-line callers who claimed firsthand experience with the unexplained, including, but not limited to, callers who suspected they’d married an alien, those who’d experienced visitation by shadow people, vampires and vampire hunters, those who’d worked at Area 51, and, as the subject was one of Art’s favorites, many nights featured “time lines,” accepting only callers who’d traveled in time. It was on one of these nights in July of 1998 that a fax was sent to Art Bell’s studio and read aloud on-air to listeners across the country. The sender claimed to be a time traveler from the year 2036, stating that time travel would be developed in 2034 as a result of research conducted at CERN, and described a machine using controlled singularities contained within magnetic fields. The message also warned of severe consequences stemming from Y2K, including infrastructure collapse and the eventual breakdown of the United States government. Between 1998 and 2001, an unidentified individual using the names John Titor and TimeTravel_0 posted messages online claiming to be a U.S. military time traveler from the year 2036. In October 2000, TimeTravel_0 appeared in an IRC chat — a form of real-time internet communication popular in the 1990s, in which users joined shared text channels to converse live — claiming to be a 38-year-old American soldier stationed at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. He stated that his mission was to travel to 1975 to retrieve an IBM 5100 computer and warned of future civil unrest and nuclear conflict. Later, lengthy explanations of time travel mechanics were posted, reaffirming prior claims that time travel had been invented in 2034. During this period, he revised the target computer from the IBM 5110 to the IBM 5100, even mailing a fragment of an IBM 5110 label to a fellow Time Travel Institute forum member named Pamela, postmarked from Orlando, Florida. Titor claimed the IBM 5100 was required because of its little-known ability to emulate IBM System/370 mainframes and debug legacy systems in 2036 — a capability later confirmed by engineers familiar with the machine. He further stated that his grandfather had worked on the IBM 5100 project, making him a natural choice for the mission. He claimed he remained temporarily in the year 2000 for personal reasons, including visiting family, as well as spending time with his younger self, a toddler at the time. Throughout his posts, he warned readers about disease outbreaks, internal conflict, and social fragmentation. In January 2001, he began using the name John Titor and posting on the Coast to Coast AM Post-to-Post forums. Titor described his time machine as operating through dual microsingularities, magnetic containment systems, gravity sensors, cesium clocks, and onboard computer systems. According to his posts, the device was first installed in a 1967 Chevrolet Corvette for travel to 1975 and later mounted within a 1987 four-wheeldrive truck during his stay in 2000. To explain inconsistencies between his predictions and observable reality, Titor invoked the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics, arguing that traveling through time created divergent timelines in which events unfolded differently from his own history. After his farewell post in 2001, the chat logs were archived and circulated widely online. By 2003, they had been compiled into books and dedicated websites. Researchers identified the existence of the John Titor Foundation, a Florida-based entity created by entertainment lawyer Larry Haber, who represented John Titor’s mother living in the “00’s timeline.” While other theories about the authorship were entertained, most point back to Larry Haber and his brother Morey Haber, who are said to have collaborated on the project. Many of John Titor’s predictions never truly came to pass. Y2K did not unfold the way he described, but perfect outcomes are rarely the point of prophecy. The words of a time traveler mattered less for their accuracy than for the thoughts they inspired in those following along. Born from one of the internet’s earliest mysteries, shared among late-night radio listeners, or traced — in both fantasy and reality — with red string between Florida pushpins, the story of John Titor belongs alongside all those tales of travelers who journeyed far in the hope that they might remind us our moment matters and, as the final message attributed to John Titor reads: “Bring a gas can with you when the car dies on the side of the road. Farewell. John.”

With summer approaching, it’s a good time to talk about palms. Planting palms in the summer months allows them time to develop a solid root system and take advantage of summer rainfall. Palms are different than many plants in your landscape and require special care. Proper selection, planting, watering, and fertilization are key to healthy palms in central Florida yards. RIGHT PALM, RIGHT PLACE Your Central Florida yard falls within USDA Zones 9b–10a, meaning palms must tolerate occasional cold temperatures and winter cold snaps. Many tropical palms that thrive in south Florida may struggle during and after cold weather, as we found out in 2025. Cold-hardy palms for Central Florida landscapes include: • Sabal Palm • Needle Palm • Carnaday Wax Palm • Pindo Palm • European Fan Palm • Seashore Palm • Chinese Fan Palm These palms are all featured in the Florida-Friendly demonstration garden at the UF/IFAS Extension Service in Bartow in the Water Wise Garden. They are labeled and we encourage you to visit to see these palms, how they grow, and what they look like after a cold winter. PROPER PALM PLANTING TIPS Now is the time to plant palms! Planting palms is recommended during the summer months when the soil is warm, and roots can establish quickly. Proper palm planting includes: • Dig a hole only as deep, or slightly shallower than the root ball. The hole should be twice as wide. • Water frequently after planting until the palm becomes established. • Apply mulch (2-3 inches deep) around the base but keep mulch away from direct contact with the trunk. • Do not apply fertilizer when planting. • Stake the palm as needed. Staking palms is different than staking trees. Palms generally prefer well-drained soil. In poorly drained sites, roots may decline, leading to nutrient deficiency symptoms and reduced growth. PALM NUTRITION IS IMPORTANT One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is using turf fertilizer on palms. Palms have very different nutritional needs from lawns and shrubs. Additionally, palms in Florida are often nutrient deficient when grown in, or near, a fertilized lawn, which can lead to an unsightly appearance such as yellow fronds, brown and abnormal frond tips, streaking, spotting and other presentations. Use a specialized palm fertilizer with a fertilizer analysis of 8-0-12+4Mg. The first three numbers represent the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and the fourth number is for magnesium (Mg). The fertilizer should also contain micronutrients. It is also important to look for a palm fertilizer that has nitrogen, potassium, and magnesium in slow-release form and that most of the micronutrients are in water soluble form. Correcting nutrient deficiencies can take up to 2 to 3 years. The application and timing method are also important. Palm fertilizer should be applied evenly under the canopy of the palm. Bands of fertilizer or spikes are not recommended since these concentrations may burn the palm roots. In Central Florida, you can fertilize palms three times during the year, skipping a winter fertilizer application. It is also important to remember that if you are correcting existing nutrient deficiencies, the affected palm fronds will not recover to their preferred appearance. The new fronds will emerge with no symptoms. And, while it is tempting to cut off the unsightly fronds, it is not recommended. These fronds (until fully brown) continue to provide nutrients to the palm. Visually, it can be months to see recovery from a nutrient deficiency once corrected. PRUNING PALMS Palms should not be over-pruned, only remove completely dead fronds. Over-pruning weakens palms and may make nutrient deficiencies worse. Avoid “hurricane pruning,” where too many green fronds are removed. This practice stresses the palm and can reduce its health over time. Avoid injuring palm trunks with nails, climbing spikes, or lawn equipment, as damage can open the door to disease and insect issues. Palms do not heal like our hardwood trees. PALM PROBLEMS Some palm issues resemble nutrient deficiencies but may actually be caused by disease, insects, poor drainage, improper maintenance, or improper planting depth. Symptoms such as spear leaf collapse, trunk rot, or severe decline should be evaluated carefully. Our Plant Clinic is always here to help with palm questions. If you have any questions about growing palms 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. If you are not in Polk County, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic. To learn more about gardening and landscaping in central Florida, listen to the “Your Central Florida Yard” podcast. You can find it wherever you listen or visit our Substack: substack. com/@yourcentralfloridayard for more information. Episode 3 is on palm fertilizer and is helpful to anyone growing palms in Florida. 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

In Florida, it can be difficult to tell the difference between a plant that simply grows aggressively and one that truly threatens local ecosystems. But for land managers, conservation groups, and scientists across Central Florida, invasive species are one of the biggest environmental challenges facing the region today. In April 2026, residents and biologists across the five-county Heartland Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (Heartland CISMA) recognized a major milestone: more than 25,000 observations of introduced species had been documented through iNaturalist. The project, which includes Polk County and surrounding areas, highlights just how widespread nonnative species have become and how valuable public participation can be in tracking them. UF IFAS Photo by Shannon Carnevale This milestone is important because tracking all introduced species, also known as nonnative species, is our best early warning system. There is an important distinction to make here: an invasive species is more than simply a species from somewhere else. While a species is considered nonnative simply because it was brought here from another part of the world, to be considered “invasive,” the following must be true. • The species must be nonnative to the area of consideration. • The species must have been introduced, intentionally or unintentionally. • The species causes, or is likely to cause, environmental harm, economic harm, and/or harm to humans. Florida’s warm climate, abundant rainfall, and extensive trade and travel networks make the state especially vulnerable to invasive plants and animals. By logging nonnative species, community scientists help professionals catch the disruptive species before they get out of hand. WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF INVASIVE SPECIES FOUND HERE Invasive species can be plants, animals, viruses, bacteria, or any other kind of living thing. Two invasive species familiar to many Central Florida residents are cogongrass and the Cuban treefrog. While one spreads silently through fields, roadsides, and yards, the other frequently pops up around our homes, clinging to porches and outdoor lights. Both can disrupt native ecosystems in significant ways. COGONGRASS Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) is one of the Southeast’s most aggressive invasive plants, and it is practically everywhere in Florida. Spotting it is easy once you know what to look for. Unmanaged, it covers fields, roadsides, pastures, and more. It’s 2-4 ft tall spring-green grass with fluffy white seed heads. In fall, it can get a bronzed look. Up close, the leaves feature a prominent, off-center white mid-vein and serrated edges reminiscent of native sawgrass. Polk County land managers actively treat it across the county, but you are just as likely to find it in yards, along lakes, and on fencelines. It can withstand routine mowing for years, slowly expanding outward in a circular pattern until it covers a property. The real giveaway happens if you go out of town for a week or two during the summer. Without constant maintenance, cogongrass shoots up so fast and grows so densely that standard residential lawnmowers can’t easily cut through it … turning a manicured lawn into an exceptionally difficult weed-control battle. If you think you have cogongrass growing in your yard or on your lakefront, call us at the extension office for recommendations. Treatment is complex and becomes more challenging the larger the patch gets, so don’t wait. Call us at 863-519-1051. CUBAN TREEFROGS Another species many Floridians encounter and are usually more familiar with is the Cuban treefrog. Larger than most native treefrogs, Cuban treefrogs are often found around porch lights, garages, outdoor plumbing fixtures, and hiding inside patio umbrellas. Unlike native treefrogs, Cuban treefrogs prey heavily on smaller frogs and lizards. They also compete with native species for shelter and food. In some cases, they can even clog plumbing or cause failure to electrical equipment. Because they thrive around developed areas, they provide an example of how urban and suburban environments can unintentionally support invasive species. Many communities in Polk County are overrun with this species, and it may be the only treefrog species residents are seeing in their area. UF IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones You can recognize Cuban treefrog adults by the color and immense size. These frogs can be over 4 inches in length and are often a light tan or cement grey color with a textured skin. They have very large eyes and toepads. As young frogs, they have reddish eyes and may have an eye band or mask. For information on identifying and removing Cuban treefrogs from your community, visit: ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW259 WHY IS IT SO COMPLICATED? One reason invasive species is confusing is that not all nonnative species are harmful. In fact, biologists often point to a general “Tens Rule”: it is estimated that only 10% of introduced species successfully establish themselves in the wild, and only 10% of those become invasive. Ultimately, that means only about 1% of all newly introduced species ever cause problems. When speaking of landscaping plants, this leaves homeowners with a massive variety of safe, beautiful landscaping options that will never threaten our ecosystems. But for land managers, finding that disruptive 1% requires keeping an eye on the other 99%. That is exactly why the Heartland CISMA project tracks all introduced species, rather than just known invaders. Through iNaturalist and other community science platforms like EDDMapS, Central Florida residents photograph and upload observations from places like Tiger Creek Preserve, Colt Creek State Park, Circle B Bar Preserve, or the Van Fleet Trail. Experts then help identify the species reported which builds a database that supports local management decisions. Residents can help protect our native species and ecosystems in three major ways: • Report unusual species sightings through platforms like iNaturalist. • Remove invasive species from your yard, if found • Prevent their spread by choosing native or Florida-Friendly landscaping. As Central Florida grows, public participation is more important than ever. Those 25,000 logged observations are proof that local residents are paying attention and helping protect Polk County’s ecosystems for the future. For more information about nonnative and invasive species, including recommendations for management, visit my article notes page at https://go.ufl.edu/havenlkld

AMERICAN VICTORY SHIP & MUSEUM One of only three fully-operational Victory Class WWII ships remaining. Visitors can come aboard a fullyfunctioning 1940s era steamship and relive history by visiting cavernous three-level cargo holds, radio and gyro rooms, hospital, galley, weaponry, steering stations, flying bridge, mess halls, engine room, crew cabins, and more. This boat served in WWII, the Korean War, and Vietnam War. americanvictory.org JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL June 15 – 20 at the Raymond James Stadium. This week-long festival creates inclusive spaces that educate, entertain, and uplift. There is a Youth Summit, Health & Wellness Conference, Community Symposium, Cultural Couture Ball, Family Fun Day, and the Juneteenth Festival Day. Find a complete schedule at roctheblockinc.com. SUMMER NIGHTS Throughout June at Busch Gardens. Enjoy world-class coasters, entertainment and more during extended summer hours. Stick around for nightly excitement at the Boom Box Dance Party in Stanleyville, and rock out with Beach Bash in Gwazi Plaza. Try delicious seasonal bites all night long. This event is included with park admission. buschgardens.com COME FROM AWAY June 11 – 28 at The Straz. The Tony Award–winning musical that turns an extraordinary true story into an unforgettable celebration of hope and humanity. Set in the days after 9/11, this vibrant, fast-paced show follows the surprising friendships and heartfelt moments that unfold when 7,000 stranded passengers are welcomed into the small town of Gander, Newfoundland. strazcenter.org MINI-POWERBOAT RENTAL Experience Tampa’s waterways with a 9.9HP mini powerboat from the Riverwalk Boating Company. The user-friendly mini-powerboats make it easy for everyone to navigate the scenic Hillsborough River and beyond, no prior boating experience necessary. Sail past Davis Islands mansions, or see Tampa’s skyline from a fresh perspective. Details at riverwalkboating.com. CLIFF DIVING WORLD SERIES June 5 & 6 on the St. Pete Pier. For the first time, the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series comes to Florida. This is one of six stops for these world-class divers competing for the championship title. Fans can watch from various vantage points across the pier’s expansive public spaces, elevated walkways, and open decks, or from boats anchored in the bay for a front-row view from the water. redbull.com SUMMER SALSA CLASS June 4, 7 – 9 p.m. at Armature Works. Step into the rhythm for one unforgettable evening of salsa dancing. The night begins with a guided lesson to get you moving with confidence, followed by a live DJ and an open dance floor to keep the energy going. All levels welcome, no partner needed. Register in advance at armatureworks.com. WATERMELON WEEKEND June 27 & 28, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Keel Farms in Plant City. Enjoy a full weekend of watermelon-themed fun, including: kids fun zones, bounce houses & water slides, watermelon eating contests, seasonal wines & ciders, food trucks, vendor market, and all things watermelon! Free admission, $10 parking. More info on FB @keelfarmsfl. THE DALI DOZEN June 5, 6:30 p.m. at The Dali. Celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Dalí at an exclusive one-night art event featuring 12 local artists selected by the Zodiac Membership Committee, who will share their talents. Guests will have the opportunity to explore a variety of works by featured artists, light hors d’oeuvres, and cash bars. Purchase tickets in advance. thedali.org HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL (2006) June 28, 6:30 p.m. at Sparkman Wharf. This is a free outdoor singalong screening for the whole family. Join Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, and Ryan for a nostalgic night of sweet teenage angst. The first 100 guests will also receive a free LED fan and a free bag of Tampa Theatre’s famous popcorn. No ticket required, limited seating. tampatheatre.org

VOLCANO BAY UNDER THE STARS June 5, 12, 18, & 25 at Volcano Bay at Universal. Get exclusive access to all attractions from 7 - 11 p.m. This event includes the Beach Bash with live DJ, games and activities for the whole family, specialty-themed island treats and beverages, DreamWorks character meet and greets, and more. Reservations required, limited ticket sales. universalorlando.com ZOODIO 50 DISCO PARTY June 13, 6 p.m. at the Central Florida Zoo. Step back into 1975 for a night celebrating 50 years of the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens at its current location. Join for an evening of disco, dinner, and dancing, where guests are invited to dress in their best ‘70s style for a one-night-only celebration at the Zoo! Purchase tickets in advance. centralfloridazoo.org ONE MAGICAL WEEKEND June 4 – 8 at Disney World. One of the most anticipated LGBTQ+ multi-day events in the U.S. Held during the first weekend of June each year, it brings together thousands of guests from around the world for curated night events, parties, and after-hours. This celebration of pride has evolved into a beloved tradition that continues to expand with world-class DJ lineups and immersive entertainment. mw2026.com APOLLO 13 (1995) June 11, 8 p.m. at Central Park in Winter Park. “Popcorn Flicks in the Park” is a free event, just bring a blanket or chairs to sit on. “Houston, we have a problem.” An oxygen tank explosion turns what was expected to be a routine lunar mission in 1970 into a race for survival in this real-life drama starring Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, and Bill Paxton. enzian.org FLY THROUGH THE TREES Throughout June at Orlando Tree Trek. Ticket includes the giant 425’ zipline, 97 aerial challenges, 2 kids courses with 21 challenges, climbing and safety instruction, and all necessary safety equipment. Kids ages 6+ (at least 47 inches) can swing on Tarzan ropes, climb ladders 50-feet up, leap into hanging nets, cross wobbly suspended bridges, navigate swinging logs, and more. Reservations required. orlandotreetrek.com SUMMER SAFARI June 6, 6:30 – 10 p.m. at the Central Florida Zoo. This is for kids only, ages 5-12. The evening will be full of hands-on activities, games, and animal encounters, as they explore the zoo after dark. They’ll discover how animals survive in the night and learn what glows in the dark. Then they’ll make a cool craft and enjoy a snack, all before the grownups come back! Ticket required. centralfloridazoo.org COMMUNITY RAINBOW RUN June 6, 7 a.m. at City Hall Plaza in Orlando. This 4.9k race was started by UCF graduate students in 2017 to mark the one-year anniversary of the Pulse tragedy. Their vision was to help the community navigate the healing process, recognizing that running, walking, and spending time with others can foster connection and collective strength. Register at pulseorlando.org. ANIME FESTIVAL June 19 – 21 at Rosen Plaza. Guests from across the anime and gaming industries will be there to meet fans, present panels, sign autographs, & give performances. Visit the allweekend-long Game Show Theater to test your anime knowledge and game show skills. The cosplay contest will show the best in Central Florida, plus there will be the most fun vendors to shop from. animefestivalorlando.com REALLY REALLY FREE MARKET June 6, 8 a.m. - noon at Orlando Festival Park. This is a community gathering where participants give away usable items, skills, food, entertainment, games, and many other things that a community can share. This is a 100 percent free and non-commercial event (no bartering or advertising), created by all the participants that show up each month. More info on Instagram @reallyfreeorlando. PAUL CORNISH TRIO June 23, 7 p.m. at Judson’s Live at the Dr. Phillips Center. LA-based pianist Paul Cornish and his trio blend piano jazz with the rhythms of soul, R&B and hip-hop influences. A prolific and sought-after jazz prodigy, Paul placed as a finalist in the prestigious Herbie Hancock International Jazz Competition. drphillipscenter.org

PEOPLE & PLACES OF POLK COUNTY June 5, 5 – 8 p.m. at Destroyer Media at 326 Ave C SW, Winter Haven at Bowen Yard. Let’s get together at our office during First Friday! At this art exhibition, you can meet the photographers and view the photos chosen for the June issues of Haven & LKLD Magazines. Support local artists and drop by to visit. Some photos available for purchase. SUMMER SUNRISE WATERMELON 5K June 13, 7 a.m. at Lake Hollingsworth Park in Lakeland. Proceeds go towards scholarships for Polk County graduates administered through the Polk Education Foundation. Certified course, chip timed. Cumulative results from the three races are used to determine official results. lakelandrunnersclub.org MEAN GIRLS, JR. June 4 – 6 at the Bartow Civic Center. Cady Heron is the new girl at North Shore High School in Chicago. Janis and Damian befriend the new girl and convince naive Cady to be their “friend” in order to bring down Queen Bee Regina George’s reign. This musical is based on the 2004 film. centralfloridatix.com SHAWN MULLINS June 12, 7 p.m. at Gram Parsons Derry Down with special guest, Cat Ridgeway. Shawn Mullins’ critical and commercial breakthrough came when 1998 “Soul’s Core” shot him to fame on the strength of Grammy-nominated No. 1 hit, “Lullaby.” His song, “Shimmer” was used to promote the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney and was included on the Dawson’s Creek soundtrack. gpderrydown.com HURRICANE SEASON BEGINS June 1! It’s recommended that you have a seven-day supply of food and water at the ready for everyone in your household. Do it now before a storm comes and you’re waiting in line to buy the last bottles of water. Learn more about emergency preparedness (alerts), including how to plan and prepare for a disaster at polkfl.gov/public-safety/hurricanepreparedness. LEGALLY BLONDE, JR June 12 – 21 at Lakeland Community Theatre. This musical chronicles the journey of the famously perky Elle Woods, a fashion-savvy UCLA sorority girl who finds her life turned upside down when she is dumped by her boyfriend Warner. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com AN AFTERNOON WITH JIM STAFFORD June 6, 2 p.m. at The Ritz Theatre. Known for his masterful guitar work and quick-witted charm, Jim brings audiences behind the scenes of his career, sharing personal anecdotes from his rise to fame, his time in television, and his decades performing for fans across the country. Purchase tickets at theatrewinterhaven.com. POLK PRIDE WEEK June 13 – 20 at various locations. It begins with the Pride Kick Off Party, and then Pride for Youth, Pride in Faith, Friday Night Pride, Pride in the Park, and finally the Pride After Dark Party. For a full schedule of events please visit polkpridefl.org. DRINKS WITH THE DIRECTOR June 11, 6 p.m. at The AGB. Dr. Daryl Ward offers guests a sneak peek into the upcoming season. Be one of the first to find out about the newest exhibits, programs, and community events the Museum has planned for ‘26 - ‘27! This is a free event, but space is limited, so please reserve your seat today at agbmuseum.org. PITBULLS & PEARLS June 13, 6 p.m. at Adams Estate in Lake Alfred. Help raise needed funds for the Polk County Bully Project. Masquerade masks are highly encouraged! Dance (or fakegamble) the night away. Includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music, silent auctions, and a few casino tables to try your luck on. Cash bar. More info on FB @polkcountybullyproject.

PEOPLE & PLACES OF POLK COUNTY June 5, 5 – 8 p.m. at Destroyer Media, 326 Ave C SW, Winter Haven at Bowen Yard. Let’s get together at our office during First Friday! At this art exhibition, you can meet the photographers and view the photos chosen for the June issues of Haven & LKLD Magazines. Support local artists and drop by to visit. Some photos available for purchase. POLK PRIDE WEEK June 13 – 20 at various locations. It begins with the Pride Kick Off Party, and then Pride for Youth, Pride in Faith, Friday Night Pride, Pride in the Park, and finally the Pride After Dark Party. For a full schedule of events please visit polkpridefl.org. MEAN GIRLS, JR. June 4 – 6 at the Bartow Civic Center. Cady Heron is the new girl at North Shore High School in Chicago. Janis and Damian befriend the new girl and convince naive Cady to be their “friend” in order to bring down Queen Bee Regina George. This musical is based on the 2004 film. centralfloridatix.com SUMMER SUNRISE WATERMELON 5K June 13, 7 a.m. at Lake Hollingsworth Park in Lakeland. Proceeds go towards scholarships for Polk County graduates administered through the Polk Education Foundation. Certified course, chip timed. This is one of three races, cumulative results from the three races are used to determine official results. lakelandrunnersclub.org HURRICANE SEASON BEGINS June 1! It’s recommended that you have a seven-day supply of food and water at the ready for everyone in your household. Do it now before a storm comes so you’re not waiting in line to buy the last bottles of water. Learn more about emergency preparedness (alerts), including how to plan and prepare for a disaster at polkfl.gov/public-safety/hurricanepreparedness. SHAWN MULLINS June 12, 7 p.m. at Gram Parsons Derry Down with special guest, Cat Ridgeway. Shawn Mullins’ critical and commercial breakthrough came when 1998 “Soul’s Core” shot him to fame on the strength of Grammy-nominated No. 1 hit, “Lullaby.” His song, “Shimmer” was used to promote the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney and was included on the Dawson’s Creek soundtrack. gpderrydown.com AN AFTERNOON WITH JIM STAFFORD June 6, 2 p.m. at The Ritz Theatre. Known for his masterful guitar work and quick-witted charm, Jim brings audiences behind the scenes of his career, sharing personal anecdotes from his rise to fame, his time in television, and his decades performing for fans across the country. Purchase tickets at theatrewinterhaven.com. PITBULLS & PEARLS June 13, 6 p.m. at Adams Estate in Lake Alfred. Help raise needed funds for the Polk County Bully Project. Masquerade masks are highly encouraged! Dance (or fake-gamble) the night away. Includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music, silent auctions, and a few casino tables to try your luck on. Cash bar. More info: FB @ polkcountybullyproject. THE GREAT AMERICAN BEER & WINE TASTING June 11, 5:30 p.m. in Downtown Winter Haven. Hosted by Main Street Winter Haven. In the spirit of America from 1776-2026, the annual Beer & Bubbles event will honor our nation’s 250th birthday. Visit participating businesses for an American beer or wine paired with a classic American bite. Ticket required. centralfloridatix.com JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION June 20, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center. The City of Winter Haven invites you to the communitywide event honoring the historical significance of Juneteenth while celebrating culture, heritage, and achievements. Attendees will enjoy: live music and performances, local food and retail vendors, familyfriendly activities, and educational exhibits. mywinterhaven.com

HOMEBOUND By Portia Elan It’s 1983, Becks is nineteen and hiding from the fact that her beloved uncle is dead. He left her a halffinished game to complete--one last collaboration to find her way out of loneliness. Little does she know what Becks is making will echo far into the future and shape the lives of a scientist, a sentient automaton, and a flinty sea captain in ways she cannot imagine. THE CASE OF THE MURDERED MUCKRAKER By Rob Osler Twenty-one-year-old junior detective Harriet Morrow is determined to prove she’s more than a lucky hire as the Prescott Agency’s first woman operative. But her latest challenge--a murder case steeped in scandal-- could become a deadly setback. MISSING SAM By Thrity Umrigar A tense and twisty story of a woman who goes missing on a morning run and her wife’s determination to both find her and clear her own name. A provocative examination of suburban mores, “Missing Sam” captures the terror manifested in today’s political climate, and the real dangers, both physical and psychological, of being brown and queer in America. THE RED WINTER By Cameron Sullivan Debut author Cameron Sullivan tears the heart out of history with this darkly entertaining retelling of the hunt for the Beast of Gévaudan. Lifting the veil on the hidden world behind our own, it reimagines the story of Europe, from Imperial Rome to Saint Jehanne d’Arc, the madness of Gilles de Rais and the first flickers of the French Revolution. JOHN OF JOHN By Douglas Stuart John-Calum Macleod is a penniless Edinburgh art school graduate when his overbearing, violent father calls him home to their Isle of Harris croft one August in the ‘90s to help with the sheep and tweed weaving. As lambing season turns to shearing season, the threads holding together the community together become increasingly frayed, and nothing will remain as it was before. IS THIS A CRY FOR HELP? By Emily Austin It’s Darcy’s first day back at the local public library following a two-month mental health leave, and she is met by unrest in her community and protests surrounding intellectual freedom, resulting in a call for book bans and a second look at the branch’s upcoming DEI programs. WHIDBEY By T. Kira Madden A portrait of three women connected through one man in the aftermath of his murder. “Whidbey” explores the long reach of violence and our flawed systems of incarceration and rehabilitation, and asks the crucial questions about the pursuit of justice and who has real power over a story: the one who lives it, or the one who tells it? STAR SHIPPED By Cat Sebastian Simon and Charlie, actors on a long-running sci-fi show, can’t stand each other and everybody in the industry knows it. With his contract ending, Simon agrees to rehabilitate his image by staging a very public friendship with Charlie. As the two men let their guards down, they find their fake-friendship turning into something very real. TAKE ME WITH YOU By Steven Rowley Jesse’s husband has disappeared in a beam of light from the sky. Now what? In “Take Me With You,” Steven Rowley brings his resonant wit and emotional insight into an epic love story--an exploration of the forces that draw two people into the same orbit and the gravity that threatens to pull them apart. GET OVER IT, APRIL EVANS By Ashley Herring Blake A summer job teaching art at a lake-town resort brings together two women with an unlikely connection: the same ex. As April and Daphne untangle their complicated feelings towards each other, their attraction grows, and they find they might have more in common than just the same ex.

Bringing Hope and a Future to the Homeless of Polk County “But after so many years, I knew what to do with hope. I held it an arm’s length away.” — Laura Taylor Namey, “The Library of Lost Things” Hope is not an abstract concept for Travis Doodles. It is not something he studies from a distance or discusses in theory. Hope is something he encounters face to face— on sidewalks, in parking lots, beneath overpasses, and across folding tables set up for shared meals. In Lakeland, hope often arrives through conversation, consistency, and the radical decision to see people as more than their circumstances. After living in New Jersey for 18 years, Travis moved to Lakeland for college and, as he says with a laugh, “just never left. I moved to Tampa, Brandon, and just kept going.” Wherever he landed, he noticed the same thing; people living on the margins, often unseen. And wherever he noticed it, he felt compelled to get involved. “I’ve always done some sort of homeless ministry,” Travis explains. “I just never really documented it to the world.” Long before his work would reach millions online, Travis’s career unfolded behind the camera. Reality television gave him a crash course in Hollywood’s chaos. It was fast paced, image driven, and relentlessly demanding. That experience eventually led to a high profile job documenting the daily life of a billionaire: every meeting, every meal, every carefully curated moment. From the outside, it looked like a success. But inside, something felt hollow. “I thought it was stupid,” Travis said candidly. “There’s nothing wrong with having nice things, but it felt pointless.” The work no longer aligned with who he was becoming, or who he felt called to be. “I had money, and I decided I would give it all away.” It was not an impulsive decision, but a deeply intentional one. With the full support of his wife Amber, Travis walked away from a six figure salary and toward a life marked by uncertainty, sacrifice, and purpose. That transition did not happen overnight. It began simply by filming encounters with people experiencing homelessness and sharing those moments on YouTube. The videos were honest and unfiltered, capturing stories often ignored. They resonated in a way Travis never expected. They went viral. What followed was a series of organic connections that reshaped Travis’s life. One introduction led to another. Resources appeared. Doors opened. An ice cream truck. A pizza truck. Community members offered help without being asked. None of it was carefully planned; all of it grew through relationships and trust. Eventually, Travis secured a building where people could be brought back for additional services. By connecting that space with his mobile outreach, Worth and Purpose was born. The organization now hosts special events designed to help the homeless in other ways. They host a weekly church service where they not only deliver ministry, but they can also get a haircut or eat a meal at a table with others. These events are intentionally woven into their outreach. Joy is not an afterthought; it is part of the mission. Working with local churches and organizations, including Gospel Inc., One More Child, Lighthouse Ministries, and Talbot House, Worth and Purpose acts as a bridge between outreach efforts and life on the streets. Travis was intentional about building something that challenged the traditional nonprofit model. “I didn’t want it to look like everything else,” he said. Rather than focusing on limited hours or short term solutions, Travis envisioned something relational and ongoing. His mission was not simply to feed someone for a day or provide services during business hours. “I want to do life with people,” he explains. That philosophy means being available around the clock. It means answering phone calls late at night. It means showing up when there’s a crisis and staying when things get uncomfortable. Over time, relationships deepen. Names are remembered. Stories are known. Trust is built. They become family. This kind of work demands more than good intentions. It requires emotional endurance, flexibility, and a willingness to carry burdens alongside others. “It’s not for the faint of heart,” Travis admits. “It’s a calling.” On any given day, that calling requires wearing many hats. Worth and Purpose offers practical support like free haircuts, food, and clothing, but it doesn’t stop there. At special events, participants might find themselves playing mini golf, laughing over shared meals, or simply being treated like everyone else in the room. These moments are intentional. Everyone deserves experiences that restore dignity and remind them they are more than their situation. Each person arrives at homelessness through a unique set of circumstances. None of those circumstances erases the human desire to learn, grow, and experience joy. Weekly Church Service Much of what Travis does is self taught. He picked up his first camera long before YouTube existed, learning through trial, error, and relentless determination. When a new skill is required, he finds a way to learn it. When a new challenge arises, he figures out the next step. When asked what the best part of his work is, Travis doesn’t hesitate. “It’s the people, the hope, and seeing the transformation,” he says. “A lot of the people we meet feel like it’s over. And then we come into their lives and turn things upside down, in the best way possible. You can actually see them come back to life.” Help comes in many forms, raising money, buying a camper, helping someone regain stability, but it’s always rooted in relationships. “We do life with them the same way you would help your own family,” he explains. “It doesn’t check the normal nonprofit boxes.” At the heart of everything Travis does, is his faith. “God changed my life,” he said. “And I believe everyone has the same purpose: love God and love people. If you focus on that, everything else will make sense.” Through four years of this work, Travis has come to a sobering conclusion. “In my experience, the mindset that I have come across is, you either love homeless people, or you hate them. There’s no middle ground. And that hurts,” he explained. “These are human beings, and they’re not treated like it.” As Polk County’s landscape continues to change, the impact on the homeless community has become increasingly visible. Other local ministries, such as Talbot House, have faced community resistance while attempting to expand services, highlighting the tension between growth, comfort, and compassion. When asked to describe his work in one word, Travis laughs. “I can’t do it in one word,” he says. “I can do it in four: Love God. Love People.” It sounds simple, but it is not easy. We pass people on the streets every day. Sometimes we look away. Sometimes we pretend not to see them. But ignoring people does not make them disappear. His life scripture is Matthew 5:16: “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Travis is doing this, one encounter at a time. Get involved and join the movement at travisdoodles.com. Info@worthandpurpose.org Instagram: @TravisDoodles Facebook: TravisDoodles YouTube: @TravisDoodles 1329 East Main Street, Lakeland 863-688-8551 Photos by Kamryn Potteiger

The roar arrives before the view. At Sebring’s notorious turn seven, a tight and punishing hairpin, the bone-shaking sound of prototype V8 engines can be felt as much as heard. The most advantageous view of turn seven can be had by hotel balcony or elaborate homemade viewing towers constructed on site by campers and die-hard fans. Overlooking the track, spectators are introduced to one of endurance racing’s most famous and unforgiving corners. During the week of Twelve Hours of Sebring, settings like this define it as authentically Central Florida, and a defining event on the global racing calendar. Held annually in March over a span of four days, Twelve Hours of Sebring draws an estimated 100,000 visitors each year, 2026 saw 115,000 spectators. The event boasts a complete calendar of non-stop racing, fan celebrations, car parades, and concerts. The rest of the year, Sebring is a modest town with fewer than 12,000 residents. Despite its unassuming appearance of flat terrain, open skies, and minimal urban development - the event transforms the area into an international hub. Organized under the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA), the race attracts elite teams, manufacturers, and fans from around the world. The Twelve Hours of Sebring isn’t just a race we live near; it’s a global motorsport institution many may not fully appreciate. At the center of it all is Sebring International Raceway, a circuit defined as much by its history as by its difficulty. Originally constructed from a World War II-era airfield, the track retains large sections of its original concrete runways. The result is a notoriously uneven surface, identifiable by cracks, seams, and abrupt transitions that punish suspension systems and test driver fortitude. Unlike smoother, modern circuits, Sebring demands constant adaptation, forcing teams to strike a delicate balance between speed and reliability. For this reason, it has long been considered essential preparation for the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, where similar endurance challenges await on an even larger stage. The paddock offers a behind-the-scenes look at the precision and coordination required to compete at this level. Temporary yet highly sophisticated, these mobile headquarters function as laboratories, workshops, and strategic command centers. Flags from across the world line the rows of transporters and garages, reflecting the international makeup of the field. Major manufacturers including Ferrari, Porsche, Cadillac, Ford, Acura, McLaren, Lexus, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Mercedes-Benz, and more bring their most advanced machines - each engineered to withstand hours of continuous stress. Rows of Michelin’s toughest racing tires are swapped onto wheels with speed and precision. Engineers monitor telemetry in real time while mechanics perform rapid adjustments, often working within tight margins where even minor changes can have significant consequences. Trackside, the pit lane delivers some of the most intense moments of the event. Here, the race unfolds in bursts of controlled chaos. As cars peel off the circuit and dive into their designated boxes, pit crews spring into action with practiced precision. Tire changes, refueling, and mechanical adjustments are executed in a matter of seconds, often in less than half a minute. Meanwhile, other cars continue to blast down the straight just feet away, creating an environment defined by noise, speed, and split-second timing. In endurance racing, these brief stops can determine the outcome as much as the laps themselves. Beyond competition, the event also serves as a venue for manufacturers to showcase their latest performance vehicles and technological innovations. Away from the track, fans can explore displays featuring newly released sports cars and concept models, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive design and engineering. This blend of competition and exhibition reinforces Sebring’s role not only as a race, but as a celebration of automotive culture. Yet what truly distinguishes Sebring is not just the racing, but the atmosphere that surrounds it. The infield transforms into a sprawling, high-energy community that feels as much like a festival as a sporting event. Among the most iconic areas is the fan-favorite Green Park colloquially known as “The Zoo,” where campers, tents, and RVs fill every available space. Many spectators arrive days in advance, establishing elaborate setups that include custom-built viewing platforms rising above the crowd. Music drifts across the grounds, grills fire up throughout the day, and the sense of camaraderie is unmistakable. Here, the spectators are not passive observers - they are active participants in the experience, contributing to the event’s unique character. Sebring’s legacy is further defined by the legends who have conquered its unforgiving surface. Over the decades, the circuit has crowned some of the greatest names in motorsport, including Mario Andretti, Ken Miles, Tom Kristensen, and Olivier Gendebien. Even Steve McQueen, widely known for his passion for motorsports and Porsche, came close to victory in 1970 before being bested by Andretti and Ferrari. McQueen’s iconic run alongside his teammates underscored Sebring’s unique ability to bridge the worlds of motorsport and popular culture. The most recent high-octane showdown of the Twelve Hours concluded just a little over a month ago. Emerging victorious was the formidable Porsche Penske Motorsport squad, with Felipe Nasr, Julien Andlauer, and Laurin Heinrich expertly navigating the track to claim the top spot. For all its international prestige, the Twelve Hours of Sebring remains remarkably grounded. Its setting may lack the glamour associated with other major racing venues, but what it offers instead is authenticity. There is a rawness to Sebring – both in the track and the people who call themselves fans. It is this authenticity that continues to draw fans from all over the globe year after year. Ultimately, Sebring stands as a reminder that world-class events sometimes are not far from home. For us within reach, it offers an opportunity to witness a truly unique spectacle - one where history, innovation, and community converge over twelve relentless hours of racing. 2027 Twelve Hours of Sebring March 17 - 20, 2027 sebringraceway.com

Generally, people don’t learn independence, independently. In the best of circumstances, the lesson of self-sufficiency is guided by a person/people with good intentions and care. In the case of the local, visually impaired community, Lighthouse is the guide. Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision is a non-profit organization that provides services and resources for the population in its title. The mission is for these individuals to be able to maneuver independent living according to their age, ability, and desire, with the ultimate goal of gaining employment. “Our goal is to teach people how to be independent, and that looks really different for all ages and backgrounds and [when considering] people’s individual goals. We also have a main goal of helping people gain employment, and that can be challenging for those who are visually impaired, so we provide lots of training on technology skills, orientation, and mobility, and how to live at home independently,” explains Elizabeth Wade, who has worked for Lighthouse since 2017. The support from Lighthouse, located in Downtown Winter Haven, serves all of Polk and Hardee Counties. They develop autonomy and foster a space for individuals to find a collective where their disability isn’t unique or ostracizing. The core initiatives are Employment Programs; Independent Living; the Veteran’s Program; Statewide Rehabilitation Engineering; and the age specific programs. The Early Intervention program helps infants and toddlers; the Children’s Program is for ages 5-13; and the Transition for Teens program prepares teens for college, the workforce, and independent living. The teens of Lighthouse can be seen working once a month at the Winter Havens Farmers Market to learn mobility skills (while navigating the market), social skills (how to speak and interact with people), and job skills (hosting the stand and presenting items they make for customers). The adults of Lighthouse are learning to utilize new devices to help facilitate social interaction at work and in the general public. They also learn transportation solutions to aid in shaping a good quality of life, all while being emotionally supported through the difficulty of vision loss. Wade, a teacher for students with visual impairments and a certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist in Polk County Public Schools and with Lighthouse, further explains what the routines of some programs may be. “My job is to primarily work with the transition program for the teenagers. We have a year-round program where we work with them every other Saturday, and we do different activities. Some involve working at the [Farmers] Market … and events where we’re working with them on cooking skills, on technology skills, and this looks different for all of our students. We do ‘Home Mobility’ day where we teach them how to use a public bus to get around in the community. In the summer, we have a five-week-long work experience program. They have a week to prepare and go shopping and get their work clothes and practice their different job skills. Then the next four weeks, they actually go to a business and work.” Of the various offerings of Lighthouse, the Transitions for Teens program appears to have a special imprint on all involved. Through a quick giggle, Clarisma Vargas-Lopez, 16, shares her favorite part of Lighthouse, “definitely the summer program when we get paid … And technically we don’t get paid, we get a stipend,” with a smile that can be heard, she continues, “I really like when they take us out, and let us walk around and shop. I really like that.” Vargas-Lopez is a 10th grader at George Jenkins High School with glaucoma (an eye disease that damages the optic nerve and causes vision loss) and Peters Anomaly, which caused her to lose her left eye at age four. In school, she uses a Clover Book - a magnifier that enhances anything she puts under it. With the tutelage of “Ms. Elizabeth,” she’s learning to use Jaws (Job Access With Speech), a screen reader. Vargas-Lopez is ready for whatever awaits her with Lighthouse because everything they put forth is enjoyable and useful. “Us teenagers get sent around to different places. My first year, I went to Party City and the last two years, I’ve been at a horse ranch, mucking stalls, raking fields, grooming the horses, bathing the horses … I love the outdoors and I love animals so it was very fitting. I loved it. It was a really amazing experience.” Wade’s favorite part of Lighthouse has been watching the teens demonstrate their capabilities in a work environment, “Showing the employer and jobsites, ‘Hey, people with visual impairments can do this, they can do these jobs.” Because of Lighthouse, Wade gets to be with the students in multiple arenas, wearing multiple titles. In school and on weekends, she’s their teacher. She’s their job coach in the summer. The amount of time spent promotes a relationship beyond a basic student and instructor bond. She is afforded the chance to learn about the kids on a personal level and truly champion their growth. Most notably, she gets to earn a place with them as a trusted mentor. Clarisma Vargas-Lopez Vargas-Lopez describes her development as a result of her participation at Lighthouse, “...my confidence [in] my awareness of my disability. Before [this] I was never surrounded by people that were like me. Once you’re put in that situation, you go like ‘Oh, this is ok to have, it’s ok to live with. I’m not as different as every other kid.’” Clarisma recognizes that she may be rare in a traditional group of youth, but understands that it shouldn’t hinder what she can have or do in the world. Her disability is but another feature in the very full person she is. Eager, confident, and excited to brave her bright future further illuminated by Lighthouse. “And, yes, I am different, but it’s not something that should be held against me. I deserve as much as everyone else does … and I should be able to advocate and ask for those things. Lighthouse and Ms. Elizabeth taught me that.” Clarisma may have visual limitations, yet her time with Lighthouse is proving that her vision for life is vast. Her story is what the organization stands on, a disability will not take your independence, as long as you have a light for a guide.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that feels like you’re visiting a dear friend of yours who made you a home-cooked meal, Maria Petit Food Boutique is the perfect spot. With antique wooden furniture painted in neutral and green colors, framed wall baskets with childhood trinkets and plants along the windowsills, it feels both welcoming and comforting from the moment you step in. “You get here, and you don’t feel like you’re eating at a restaurant. You feel at home, as if you’re at a friend’s house,” said Maria Franco, “and that’s the vibe we went for.” Growing up in Brazil, Maria shared about spending her vacation days at her family’s farm, where she learned how to plant herbs, pick fruit from the trees, and make delicious meals that have inspired her to this day. Although her entire family cooked, Maria shared that it was her grandmother who taught her all the cooking lessons. “My grandma was my biggest inspiration,” shared Maria, “and I used to spend all my vacation time with her. Even if my mom wouldn’t go, I would catch the bus and say, ‘I’m going.’” Her favorite thing to make with her grandmother was a knotted Brazilian cheese bread called nozinho de queijo, which translates to “little knot cheese” of mozzarella. Meant to be eaten with coffee or tea, she shared that the small pastry wasn’t hard to make but that it took a lot of time because you had to prepare the dough, bake it, then dip it into a caramel-like sugar, and wait for it to crystallize. She laughed as she remarked, “That was our favorite thing because it took the whole afternoon to make, and then we would eat it in seconds.” The name Maria Petit reflects the origin of Maria’s vision, when she began to create her own special bite-sized delicacies for others. She started with small treats such as the very famous Brazilian chocolate truffle dessert, the brigadeiro. She also makes Parmesan cookies, peanut butter protein balls, and delicious alfajores, which are delicate sugar cookies filled with guava or coated in chocolate with a creamy center, and coxinha, a Brazilian chicken croquette known on her menu as chicken potato balls. These appetizing bites were the start of Maria’s creations when she catered weddings and parties, bringing a taste of authenticity and uniqueness to every event. As word spread, Maria decided to “get things going” and make more than just her small treats. She began to cook healthy, protein-rich meals in a commissary kitchen until the opportunity arose to purchase what would become the perfect space for her home-inspired dining experience. “It actually was a house,” Maria said. “We were able to acquire it, renovate everything, and here we are, seven years later.” Before officially opening the food boutique five years ago, Maria shared that her food was inspired by her journey to better nourish her body while navigating a health issue. That’s when she began to cook low-carb meals made with the right nutrients to fuel her body. These meals included mushroom quinoa bowls, chicken pesto sandwiches, feijoada, which is a Brazilian sausage and beef stew, and Mediterranean salads. As she cooked these life-changing dishes, a good friend of hers, Lisa Cleaves, a licensed esthetician in Winter Haven, told her, “Maria, you have to bring this to other people.” And so, she did. She started to make customized meal plans for people who wanted to eat healthier and feel better. Those meal plans quickly became a success with people in the community, and they’ve continued to be one of the main reasons customers keep returning. Each entree can be allergen-adjusted and gluten or soy-free. As Maria shares her specialty with others, she understands that life can get busy. On those long days when you’re tired and just want a reliable dinner made with high-quality ingredients, she provides exactly that and might even let you take the credit for it. “I wanted to have family meals that a mother can feel good about,” said Maria. “A meal that when she gets home, she can place it on a plate and say, ‘I made it.’” With plans to extend her business hours, Maria hopes to make her comfort food more accessible not only to the people who dine in but also to people getting off work and looking for a delicious, clean, and flavor-filled meal. “These are the things that I have on my heart,” she said, “because then people aren’t just stopping anywhere and grabbing whatever.” Since being raised on a farm and discovering the impact that diet changes can have on your health, Maria says it has deeply influenced how she views food and its quality. “My food is very homey and authentic, very farm-to-table,” she said. With a favorite of hers being the tuna garbanzo salad, Maria adds, “It’s a big thing for me that the food is actually healthy and good for you.” As Maria continues to make food that nourishes your body, she’s also working to change the narrative about the misconception of healthy foods not satisfying your taste buds. “I don’t always like to use the word ‘healthy’ because it can scare people,” she explained. “They think it won’t taste good. But that’s what I’m trying to break.” One of those inclusions on her menu are the juices that aren’t fully pressed, but are instead blended with the whole fruit to keep its nutrients. “I believe it’s better for you when you have the whole fruit in there,” she said, “so we can conserve all the good stuff and not only the sugar of the juice.” A customer favorite is the green juice, which is a blend of pineapple, ginger, spinach, and kiwi. While many of her offerings focus on nutrition, Maria also embraces her customers’ desire for sweet indulgences. She bakes melt-in-your-mouth cakes like the dulce de leche pineapple cake, a longtime favorite of her daughter. She also makes white chocolate and strawberry cakes and the classic “grandma cakes,” as she calls them, such as classic chocolate, vanilla, and lemon. In addition to her meals, you might notice an array of unique keepsakes, including crochet animals, teacups, and books. These eye-catching items aren’t just for decoration—they’re a meaningful extension of her dream. Maria creates customized gourmet gift boxes displayed in acrylic containers and wrapped with a bow. Each box is thoughtfully designed for any occasion, whether it’s welcoming a new baby, supporting a sick friend, or simply showing appreciation to someone you care about. When you request a gift box, it is carefully curated with homemade items like soups, baked goods, and specialty treats made in-house, along with handselected products sourced locally or through trusted partners. Rather than offering pre-made packages, Maria personalizes each box to reflect the needs and personality of the special person they’re for. “It’s a thoughtful, gourmet gift,” says Maria. “You tell me about your friend—what they’re like—and we’ll customize something that fits their personality.” From her beginnings as a young farm girl with a passion for cooking to now serving the Auburndale and Polk County communities with authentic, nutritious meals, Maria has created more than just a place to enjoy a bite to eat. She has built a space that extends her childhood memories into something deeply meaningful that reflects her passion for healthier and happier living. Through both her food and her boutique offerings, Maria Petit Food Boutique reflects the heart behind it all: helping people feel seen, nourished, and truly at home. MARIA PETIT FOOD BOUTIQUE 227 E Lake Ave, Auburndale Facebook: mariapetitfoodboutique Instagram @mariapetitfood