July is National Lake Appreciation Month, a fitting designation for one of the busiest times of year for water sports and recreation here in Central Florida. With so many people using the lakes, there are bound to be concerns about the health of our waterways. However, we can actually address many of these concerns by observing just one species: the North American river otter (Lontra canadensis). These semi-aquatic animals are plentiful both in and out of the water and can often be spotted on docks or in waterfront backyards. Most of the time, they are found splashing and rolling around with one another, as if they don’t have a care in the world! Otters are incredibly social animals and playing with one another is one of the main ways they interact. Happy otters are typically healthy otters, and healthy otters often mean healthy lakes. This is because otters are an important ecosystem indicator species. Their presence or absence from an area can be a sign of environmental health, water quality, and the effects of pollution. One primary reason that otters function as an indicator species is a process called biomagnification, or the build-up of pollutants as they ascend the food chain. Because otters consume so much prey, the process of biomagnification is rapidly advanced. Their primary source of food is fish, but they can also be found munching on other aquatic creatures, including frogs, crayfish, turtles, and invertebrates. Otters are voracious predators, and they may consume up to 20% of their body weight in a single day, which can add up to over five pounds of meat. Over time, pollutants that have built up in their food sources can also build up in the tissues of an otter’s body, leading to poor health or reproductive problems. If a certain pollutant is present at a high enough concentration that it affects the otter population, there is likely cause to be worried about the health of the environment, the water, and even the humans living nearby. As the old saying goes, “the poison is in the dose.” While a small amount of that pollutant may not be an issue for a smaller organism, a large amount of it could be for the otter. Otters also reflect the health of larger systems, such as watersheds, which channel water into lakes, creeks, and rivers. On a smaller scale, each lake here in Polk County has its own watershed, sometimes referred to as a lakeshed, just like our springs further north; you may be more familiar with the term springshed. The connections created by these systems mean that even if you don’t live directly on the water, the landscape around your house or apartment also impacts the health of our watersheds and ultimately, the lakes. Here in Polk County, there are certainly aspects of our lake health in need of improvement; however, the thriving otter population in the central Florida region is a testament to the overall health of our water bodies, which bodes well for many years of outdoor and water recreation to come! We can all play a role in maintaining healthy watersheds and supporting our otter populations by adopting these practices: · Trash your trash and pick up poop: Make sure litter, trash, and other items are properly disposed of. Dog poop can introduce parasites, elevated protein levels, and bacteria to our lakes, ponds, and rivers, so please pick up after your dog… even in your backyard. · Reduce use of broadcast herbicides and insecticides in yard care: If you’ve got a pest or weed issue, use a targeted product rather than a multi-tasker. Plants and insects are important parts of the ecosystem and food web. · If you have questions, you can call the UF/IFAS Extension Plant Clinic at 863-519-1057 or email them at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu . · Install a rain garden or redirect gutters to your yard, rather than down your driveway: We can all contribute to watershed health by keeping the rain that falls on our property, on our property. When rain collects pollutants from yards, sidewalks, and roads, it flows into our stormwater drains and then flows straight to our lakes! Let that water seep into the green areas of your neighborhood or yard instead. When you see otters or other wildlife while boating or spending time near the water, remember to practice safe wildlife viewing techniques. These animals are fun to watch from a safe distance but getting too close or harassing them may disrupt their natural behavior—we wouldn’t want to interrupt otter playtime or harm this indicator species. And, for our waterfront residents, we know otters can make a mighty big mess. We can practice a little tolerance towards their messy play and eating habits by keeping a hose nearby to clean off docks or seawalls after the otters leave. Regardless of how you enjoy the water this summer, keep an eye out for our otters from a safe distance, and keep in mind that happy, healthy otters mean healthy lakes and watersheds! This article was written by Natural Resources Extension Program Intern, Ms. Hanley Renney, under supervision by Natural Resources and Conservation Extension Agent, Mrs. Shannon Carnevale.

What is the best way to maintain a healthy lawn in central Florida? There is no secret to lawncare success. Simply following the best management practices for home lawncare is the best way to support a healthy, thriving lawn. What does that mean? Proper mowing, watering, and following UF/ IFAS recommendations for pest management and fertilization. A properly maintained lawn is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Healthy lawns filter runoff, reduce erosion, and mitigate heat and glare. Adhering to the best management practices recommended by UF/IFAS Extension can help achieve these benefits. And if all that doesn’t work, look to one of the turfgrass alternatives to align with the “right plant, right place” principle that is the cornerstone of Florida-Friendly Landscaping. 1. MOW TO THE RIGHT HEIGHT Mowing is something many people don’t think twice about but will make a big difference in the health and vigor of your lawn. Mow dry grass with sharp blades at the highest setting recommended for your type of turfgrass, never removing more than 1/3 of the leaf blade. St. Augustinegrass can be mowed at 3 ½-4 inches (with dwarf types at 2-2 ½ inches), zoysiagrass is mowed at 2 inches, and bahiagrass at 3-4 inches. These are the most common types of turfgrass found in central Florida lawns. Mowing high is directly related to deep roots, which are important for encouraging drought-tolerance. Keeping the mower blades sharp and clean to reduce susceptibility to pests with a clean cut. 2. PROPER WATERING IS IMPORTANT! Did you know that improper watering is the main cause of lawn damage? This means applying the correct amount of water each time you turn your sprinklers on—only ½-3/4 inch of water should be applied. Calibrating, or measuring, the water that comes out of your sprinklers will help you determine run time. Learn how to calibrate your sprinkler system here: gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu . Additionally, make sure you change your timeclock seasonally. You do not need to water routinely when the lawn is dormant in the winter, nor do you need to when the summer rains start. In fact, too much water is not a good thing when it comes to a healthy lawn. Over watering can lead to weeds, disease, and insect pests. Make sure you do not change the rate of application but change the frequency of application either manually or using your timeclock. 3. PROPER INSECT AND DISEASE MANAGEMENT Make sure the pest is properly identified before any treatment action is taken. Brown spots in lawns can end up all looking alike, and proper identification of the problem is key to good lawn management. The UF/IFAS Extension Plant Clinic can help you identify the problem, saving you time and money. Use nonchemical methods of control first (hand pruning, beneficial insects) and then if chemical control is needed, spot-treat with least toxic chemical first. Follow the Florida-Friendly Landscaping principle of managing yard pests responsibly: ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/ about-ffl/9-principles/principle-6-manage-pests. 4. WHAT ABOUT FERTILIZER? Just like water, too much fertilizer is not a good thing. Over-fertilization not only increases impacts to the environment, but it can also lead to excess disease and insect issues. If fertilizer is needed, applications should be made mid-April and again in early October. Timing will change depending on where you live in the state. Remember that fertilizers are used to add nutrients to your plants and encourage growth, so it is entirely possible that you do not need to apply it twice a year. If you do apply fertilizer, always select one that is formulated for lawns, contains no phosphorous, and has nitrogen in a slow-release form. Stay away from weed-and-feed products as they may harm nearby ornamental plants and trees. Additionally, weed-and-feed contains fertilizers and herbicides that need to be applied at different times of the year to be effective. 5. UNWANTED PLANTS (AKA WEEDS) What do you think the best way to control weeds might be? Yes, proper lawn management (see a trend in this article?) When lawns are not maintained following best management practices, areas can become weak, stressed, and may die. Voids are the perfect places for weeds to infiltrate the lawn. Once weeds show up, you can choose either a non-chemical or chemical approach to control. For more information on controlling weeds, check out our podcast episode on weeds (Your Central Florida Yard podcast episode 9: link.chtbl.com/ YourCentralFloridaYard). Finally, what are the options if lawn maintenance becomes overwhelming, costly, or just too time consuming? It may be that turfgrass is not the right plant for the right place in your yard. Right plant, right place means that you select plants based on the yard’s conditions—soil type, climate, water, and light. Not all sites are appropriate for growing turfgrass and there are alternatives. · Increase mulched beds and fill with low-maintenance ornamental plants and groundcovers. · Want that lawn aesthetic? Look to a turfgrass alternative (a low-growing groundcover). Consider perennial peanut or frogfruit. Now that summer is here, refer to our blog post on summer lawn care at blogs.ifas.ufl.edu . 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-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu . 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.

1 cup gin 1 cup cucumber, chopped ¼ cup lime juice ½ jalapeno, sliced (or to taste) 4 tablespoons simple syrup Tonic water cucumbers & jalapeno for garnish In a cocktail shaker, muddle cucum - ber, lime juice, and jalapeno. Add gin, simple syrup, and ice. Shake. Strain into 2 glasses, top with tonic water. Garnish with cucumbers and jalape - nos. Ages 21+ only, please drink responsibly.

THE LEMON ORCHARD By: Luanne Rice The story follows the journey of Julia, a woman who is grappling with the recent loss of her daughter and the dissolution of her marriage. Seeking solace and a fresh start, Julia travels to the lemon orchard owned by Roberto, a Mexican immigrant. As Julia and Roberto form an unexpected connection, they confront their own past traumas and secrets. The novel explores themes of cultural differences, forgiveness, and the healing power of human connection. LEMON: A GLOBAL HISTORY By: Toby Sonneman A comprehensive exploration of the lemon’s cultural and historical significance around the world. Sonneman delves into the origins of the lemon in Asia and traces its journey through various civilizations, examining how it became a staple in cuisine, medicine, and folklore. The book highlights the lemon’s versatility, from its use in cooking and preservation to its role in religious rituals and traditional medicine. Through anecdotes, recipes, and historical anecdotes, Sonneman paints a vivid picture of how lemons have shaped human history and continue to be an integral part of global culture. THE NATURAL APOTHECARY: LEMONS By: Dr. Penny Stanway This books serves as a comprehensive guide to harnessing the natural properties of lemons for home remedies, health, and beauty purposes. Throughout the book, readers will find practical tips and recipes for incorporating lemons into their daily routines. This includes recipes for homemade cleaning products, skincare treatments, hair care solutions, and natural remedies for common ailments. Additionally, the book explores the nutritional benefits of lemons and how they can contribute to overall health and wellness. THE LEMON TREE By: Sandy Tolan A powerful non-fiction narrative that intertwines the lives of two individuals, Bashir Khairi, a Palestinian Arab, and Dalia Eshkenazi Landau, an Israeli Jew, through the symbol of a lemon tree. The book delves into the complex history and ongoing conflict in the Middle East, focusing on the shared history and intertwined fates of Palestinians and Israelis. It offers readers a nuanced understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, humanizing the individuals affected by it and emphasizing the shared humanity that transcends religious and national divides. THE LEMON GROVE By: Helen Walsh This is a contemporary novel that follows the vacation of Jenn and her family in Mallorca. During their annual holiday, Jenn finds herself drawn to her stepdaughter’s boyfriend, Nathan. Their attraction quickly escalates into a passionate affair, setting off a chain of events that threatens to unravel the fragile dynamics of their relationships. With evocative prose and vivid imagery, Helen Walsh captures the intensity and turmoil of forbidden desire, offering readers a compelling glimpse into the darker corners of the human heart. LEMONS By: Melissa Savage “Lemons” is a heartwarming children’s novel centered around the story of Lemonade Liberty Witt, a young girl who faces the challenges of grief and loneliness after the loss of her mother. Lemonade, as she prefers to be called, is sent to live with her grandfather in a small town in California’s Redwood Forest after her mother’s death. Filled with humor, warmth, and a touch of whimsy, “Lemons” is a tale of resilience, friendship, and the power of embracing life’s unexpected twists and turns. GENNARO’S LIMONI By: Gennaro Contaldo Authored by Gennaro Contaldo, a renowned Italian chef and restaurateur, “Gennaro’s Limoni” celebrates the versatility and vibrancy of lemons in Italian cuisine. Contaldo shares a collection of recipes that showcase the various ways lemons can be used to enhance dishes, from appetizers to desserts. Readers are introduced to traditional Italian recipes as well as innovative creations that incorporate the bright and zesty flavors of lemons. From classic dishes like lemon risotto and lemon chicken to refreshing lemon sorbet and indulgent lemon tart, the cookbook offers a diverse range of culinary delights. LEMON MERINGUE PIE MURDER By: Joanne Fluke Part of Joanne Fluke’s long-running cozy mystery series featuring the amateur sleuth and bakery owner Hannah Swensen. In “Lemon Meringue Pie Murder,” Hannah finds herself in the midst of another murder investigation when the sheriff’s wife, Delores Swensen, is found dead with Hannah’s famous lemon meringue pie nearby. As Hannah delves into the case, she uncovers secrets and motives within her small town of Lake Eden, Minnesota. Fluke combines elements of mystery, humor, and recipes, as Hannah juggles her investigative pursuits with running her bakery and navigat

WELCOME TO THE HYUNAM-DONG BOOKSHOP By Hwang Bo-reum Quitting her job and divorcing her husband, Yeong-Ju, in a leap of faith, opens the Hyunam-dong Bookshop and welcomes new friends and visitors to her circle, builds an inviting space for hurt and lost souls to rest, heal, and learn how to write their own stories. THE LITTLE WARTIME LIBRARY By Kate Thompson In 1944 London, librarian Clara Button creates an underground library and shelter, but, as the war drags on, finds her determination to remain strong in the face of adversity tested to the limit when it may come at the price of keeping those closest to her alive. THE WISHING GAME By Meg Shaffer Years ago, a reclusive megabestselling children’s author quit writing under mysterious circumstances. Suddenly he resurfaces with a brand-new book and a one-of-a-kind competition, offering a prize that will change the winner’s life in this absorbing and whimsical novel. THE NEIGHBOR FAVOR By Kristina Forest Enlisting the help of her new neighbor to find a date for her sister’s wedding, not realizing he is her favorite fantasy author—the very same one who ghosted her months ago—aspiring children’s book author Lily Greene finds this simple favor between them becoming anything but. WHY WE READ By Shannon Reed In this uproarious exploration of the joys of reading, a long-time teacher, lifelong reader and The New Yorker contributor shares surprising stories from her life and the poignant ways in which books have impacted her students and shows us how literature can transform us for the better. THE BOOKSHOP MICE By Robert Starling Astrid is a bookshop mouse, but when she tells her new classmates about her astromouse mom and the incredible adventures she has with her dad, they don’t believe her. Only a visit to The Book Nook will show them what they’re missing. WHERE IS OUR LIBRARY? By Josh Funk Patience and Fortitude, the illustrious lion statues that guard the New York Public Library’s Schwarzman Building, venture into the children’s room one night only to find that all the books are gone, and they proceed to search all over the city before finding their favorite books in a surprising new home. NO BUDDY LIKE A BOOK By Allan Wolf There are a billion ways a book can make a great buddy. No matter how they may be consumed, they give readers of every background an opportunity to expand their world and spark their imagination. HELP WANTED, MUST LOVE BOOKS By Janet Summer Johnson Shailey loves bedtime, especially reading with her dad. But her dad starts a new job, and it gets in the way of their bedtime routine. So Shailey takes action! She fires her dad, posts a Help Wanted sign, and starts interviews immediately. She is thrilled when her favorite characters from fairytales line up to apply, but it’s not the same. Is bedtime ruined forever? HOW THIS BOOK WAS MADE By Mac Barnett You may think you know how this book was made, but you don’t. Sure, the author wrote many drafts, and the illustrator took a long time creating the art, but then what? How’d it get into your hands? Well, open the cover and read through these pages to find out. Just beware of the pirates and angry tiger.

LAND OF MILK AND HONEY By C Pam Zhang A Chinese American chef who, lured to a decadent, enigmatic colony of the superrich in a near future in which food is disappearing, discovers the meaning of pleasure and the ethics of who gets to enjoy it, altering her life and, indirectly, the world. THE FERVOR By Alma Katsu In 1944, Meiko Briggs and her daughter, Aiko, held in an internment camp in the Midwest, discover a mysterious disease spreading among the interned is linked to a demon from the stories of Meiko’s childhood, hellbent on infiltrating their already strange world. GREEK LESSONS By Han Kang A young Korean woman losing her ability to speak befriends a Greek language teacher who is losing his sight, and soon they discover they have even more in common, in the new novel from the International Booker Prizewinning author of “The Vegetarian.” HULA By Jasmin ‘Iolani Hakes A young daughter of the legendary Hawaiian Naupaka dynasty dreams of healing the rift in her family by competing in and winning the next Miss Aloha Hula contest and proving herself worthy of carrying on her family’s name. CRYING IN H MART By Michelle Zauner The Japanese Breakfast indie pop star presents a full-length account of her viral New Yorker essay to share poignant reflections on her experiences of growing up Korean-American, becoming a professional musician and caring for her terminally ill mother. THE TRYOUT By Christina Soontornvat When cheerleading tryouts are announced, Christina and her best friend, jump at the chance to join the squad. As two of the only kids of color in school, they have always yearned to fit in. But will the girls survive the terrifying tryouts with their whole grade watching? PUNKY ALOHA By Shar Tuiasoa Punky loves to do a lot of things--except meeting new friends. When her grandmother asks her to go out and grab butter for her famous banana bread, Punky hesitates. But with the help of her grandmother’s magical sunglasses, and with a lot of aloha in her heart, Punky sets off on a BIG adventure for the very first time. MY BINDI By Gita Varadarajan Divya is scared to put on the bindi for the first time. What if she gets made fun of? What will it feel like? But Amma assures her that her bindi will bring protection. After Divya looks inside Amma’s special box to find the perfect bindi to put on, she gazes in the mirror and discovers a new side of herself, and it gives her strength. WHEN YOU TRAP A TIGER By Tae Keller When Lily and her family move in with her sick grandmother, a magical tiger straight out of her halmoni’s Korean folktales arrives, prompting Lily to unravel a secret family history. Long, long ago, her grandmother stole something from the tigers and now the tigers want it back. ARU SHAH AND THE END OF TIME By Roshani Chokshi Aru Shah lives in the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture and has a tendency to stretch the truth in order to fit in at school. When three schoolmates show up at Aru’s doorstep to catch her in a lie, she panics and shows them the cursed Lamp of Bharata. On their urging, she lights the lamp and unwittingly frees the Sleeper, an ancient demon whose duty it is to awaken the God of Destruction.

ANITA DE MONTE LAUGHS LAST By Xochitl Gonzalez New York Times bestselling author Xochitl Gonzalez delivers a mesmerizing novel about a firstgeneration Ivy League student who uncovers the genius work of a female artist decades after her suspicious death. DIVA By Daisy Goodwin Describes the scandalous love affair between the legendary opera singer, Maria Callas, and the fabulously rich Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, whose relationship ended suddenly with the shocking news that he was to marry Jacqueline Kennedy. SOMEONE ALWAYS NEARBY By Susan Wittig Albert Based on research into a massive collection of over 700 letters, documents, media reports and historical accounts, this novel, set in 1940, centers around Georgia O’Keeffe and Maria Chabot—a young and naïve would-be writer, exploring the dimensions of friendship and the debts we incur to those who make our lives easier. THE FLAMETHROWERS By Rachel Kushner Arriving in New York to pursue a creative career in the raucous 1970s art scene, Reno joins a group of dreamers and raconteurs before falling in love with the estranged son of an Italian motorcycle scion and succumbing to a radical social movement in 1977 Italy. THE AGE OF LIGHT By Whitney Scharer A novel inspired by the life of the Vogue model-turned-renowned photographer finds Lee Miller relocating to 1929 Paris, where she becomes the muse, then colleague of the mercurial surrealist, Man Ray before transforming into an artist in her own right. WOMEN IN ART By Rachel Ignotofsky Covering a wide array of artistic mediums, this fascinating collection also contains infographics about artistic movements throughout history, statistics about women’s representation in museums, and notable works by women. FRIDA KAHLO AND HER ANIMALITOS By Monica Brown Journey through Frida Kahlo’s life, from her childhood to her rise as one of the world’s most influential painters. Brown’s story recounts Frida’s beloved pets-- two monkeys, a parrot, three dogs, two turkeys, an eagle, a black cat, and a fawn--and playfully considers how Frida embodied many characteristics of each animal. MARY BLAIR’S UNIQUE FLAIR By Amy Novesky Even as a child, Mary Blair loved color, and all she wanted to do was to make art. But becoming an artist wasn’t easy. Her parents worked hard to provide her paper and paints, and Mary worked hard to enter contests and earn a spot at a school for the arts. She even had to work hard to find her place at the Walt Disney Studios. TRAILBLAZER: THE STORY OF BALLERINA RAVEN WILKINSON By Leda Schubert When she was five years old, her parents took her to see the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and her passion for dance only grew stronger. No Black ballerina had ever danced with a major touring troupe before. Raven would be the first. Learn the little-known story of Raven Wilkinson, the first African American woman to dance for a major classical ballet company and an inspiration to Misty Copeland. DOLLY! THE STORY OF DOLLY PARTON AND HER BIG DREAM By Robyn McGrath You’ve likely heard of the performer Dolly Parton. But do you know where this dazzling songwriter and musician draws her roots? While balancing farm chores with schoolwork, Dolly never lost sight of her dreams, composing her first song at age five and performing at the Grand Ole Opry at age thirteen.

THE STORM WE MADE By Vanessa Chan “The Storm We Made” immerses readers in the harrowing landscape of World War II-era Malaya (now Malaysia). Against a backdrop of betrayal and courage, the novel resonates with the enduring power of familial bonds. Prepare to be swept away by a tale that echoes with history, both on a grand and personal scale, prompting reflection on the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity. This book addresses all of the complexities of war - nothing is easy or neat. Such a powerful debut novel. THE TURTLE HOUSE By Amanda Churchill “The Turtle House” unfolds as a poignant tapestry of interconnected lives woven across generations and continents. Lia’s journey in 1990’s Texas intertwines with her grand- mother Mineko’s in pre-war Japan. The rich narrative explores themes of hidden histories and the enduring legacy of trauma. This debut novel is perfect for fans of historical fiction and dual timelines. YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID By K.T. Nguyen “You Know What You Did” intricately weaves a tale of suspense, ensnaring readers in its enigmatic web until the very last page. This debut thriller follows the journey of a first-generation Vietnamese American artist as she confronts the shadows of her past. By delving into the intricate layers of the refugee experience, the narrative unfolds with a nuanced exploration of legacy and the complicated tapestry of family ties. It is a rollercoaster ride of dizzying twists that chal- lenge perceptions of loyalty and love, leaving you to weigh the depths of human secrets. VICTIM By Andrew Boryga “Victim” is a thought-provoking and fiercely intelligent debut novel. This blistering satire follows Javi, a cunning hustler who sees through the superficial diversity initiatives of the modern world and exploits them for his own gain. With its sharp critique of per- formative allyship and its exploration of the complexities of identity and victimhood, this novel will leave you reevaluating your own attitudes toward identity, privilege, and the meaning of social justice. This book is rare because it is both fun to read and will spark more profound conversations. WELCOME TO THE HYUNAM-DONG BOOKSHOP By Hwang Bo-reum May is the perfect time to try out new things - and debut novels offer new voices to experience. And what a debut it is! Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop! This novel is a tender ode to the transformative magic of literature and community. The story follows Yeongju’s journey from corporate confines to the sanctuary of a bookshop. It resonates with themes of self-discovery and belonging. Amidst the shelves of stories, friendships blossom, and she finds solace in the embrace of kindred spirits. With its focus on finding acceptance and the simple pleasures in life, it felt like the perfect read to jumpstart the summer months. THE OTHER VALLEY By Scott Alexander Howard “The Other Valley” is a debut novel that beckons you into a realm where time bends and boundaries blur. The book invites you to ponder the connections that shape our lives. The story follows the story of Ollie, a shy and intelligent sixteen-year-old who aspires to join the Conseil, the governing body of her isolated town. This surreal place borders its own past and future. This book is like nothing I have read before. Using the lens of speculative fiction, it explores themes of power and destiny and how our choices turn into consequences.

YOU ONLY CALL WHEN YOU’RE IN TROUBLE By: Stephen McCauley An architect Tom, trying to keep his needy family at bay, finds himself answering their demands when his sister and niece need his help, setting him on a journey that changes everyone’s life and shows the beauty or dysfunction of family ties. OUR WIVES UNDER THE SEA By: Julia Armfield When her wife, a marine biologist, returns home after a disastrous deep-sea mission, Miri, knowing that something is wrong, searches for answers, desperate to understand what happened below water and why the woman she loves is drifting away. THE MARS HOUSE By: Natasha Pulley A compulsively readable sci-fi novel about a marriage of convenience between a Mars politician and an Earth refugee. Un-put-downably immersive and utterly timely, Pulley’s new novel is a gripping story about privilege, strength, and life across class divisions. LAVASH AT FIRST SIGHT By: Taleen Voskuni While at PakCon to promote her parents’ food-packaging business and win an ad slot in the Superbowl, 27-year-old Nazeli meets Vanya, with whom she forms an instant connection, but when her parents recognize Vanya as the daughter of their greatest rival, the heat is on. THE GREAT BELIEVERS By: Rebecca Makkai In 1985, Yale Tishman, the development director for an art gallery in Chicago, is about to pull off an amazing coup, bringing in an extraordinary collection of 1920s paintings as a gift to the gallery. Yet as his career begins to flourish, the carnage of the AIDS epidemic grows around him. MRS. EVERYTHING By: Jennifer Weiner Jo and Bethie Kaufman were born into a world full of promise. Growing up in 1950s Detroit, they live in a perfect “Dick and Jane” house, where their roles in the family are clearly defined. But the truth ends up looking different from what the girls imagined. THE HOUSE IN THE CERULEAN SEA By: TJ Klune Given a curious classified assignment to evaluate the potential risks posed by six supernatural orphans, a caseworker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth bonds with an enigmatic caregiver who hides dangerous secrets. RUBYFRUIT JUNGLE By: Rita Mae Brown Molly Bolt is poor, from the South and she’s adopted, but Molly’s proud of who she is. From a young age, she knew she was smart, didn’t want to get married, and liked girls. She escapes her meager life in Florida with her adoptive parents and heads to New York to find a community that will accept her. THE GUNCLE By: Steven Rowley When tragedy strikes, Patrick takes on the role of primary guardian for his niece and nephew. Despite having a set of “Guncle Rules” ready to go, he has no idea what to expect especially after the loss of his great love, a somewhatstalled career, and a lifestyle not-so-suited to a six- and a nine-year-old. THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO By: Taylor Jenkins Reid Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo requests an unknown reporter, Monique Grant, to conduct her first interview in decades. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the star, but as Evelyn’s story nears its conclusion, it’s clear that their lives intersect in tragic and irreversible ways.

THE COINCIDENCE OF COCONUT CAKE By: Amy E. Reichert You’ve Got Mail meets How to Eat a Cupcake in this delightful novel about a talented chef and the food critic who brings down her restaurant—whose chance meeting turns into a delectable romance of mistaken identities. SWEETBITTER By: Stephanie Danler A year in the life of a beguiling young woman in the wild world of a famous downtown New York restaurant follows her burning effort to become someone of importance through a backwaiter job that enables her indulgences in culinary and intellectual interests. SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE LAKESIDE SUPPER CLUB By: J. Ryan Stradal In the aftermath of a devastating tragedy, a couple from two very different restaurant families in rustic Minnesota, Mariel Prager and her husband Ned, who’s having an identity crisis, lose almost everything they hold dear and unexpectedly find salvation in their failing business—the Lakeside Supper Club. ARSENIC AND ADOBO By: Mia P. Manansala Returning home to help save her Tita Rosie’s failing restaurant, Lila Macapagal is shocked when her exboyfriend, a notoriously nasty food critic, dies suddenly, moments after they had a confrontation, leaving her the only suspect. THE KITCHEN FRONT By: Jennifer Ryan An indebted young widow, a freedom-seeking kitchen maid, the wife of a wealthy but unkind man and a trained chef navigating sexism compete for a once-in-alifetime spot hosting a BBC cooking program during World War II. THE NASTY BITS By: Anthony Bourdain The best-selling chef and author shares a candid and outrageous collection of his worldwide culinary misadventures, from scrounging for eel in backstreet Hanoi, to quarreling with raw-food activist Woody Harrelson, to revealing the less than glamorous aspects of making television. YOUR TABLE IS READY By: Michael Cecchi-Azzolina In this entertaining, enlightening and edgy memoir, a career maître d’hotel, who has manned the front room at the hottest restaurants in NYC from the 1970s to 2020, breaks down how restaurants really run (and don’t) and how the economics work for owners and staff alike. RADHA & JAI’S RECIPE FOR ROMANCE By: Nisha Sharma To All the Boys I Loved Before meets World of Dance in this delectable love story that combines food, dance, and a hint of drama to cook up the perfect romance. LIGHTS, CAMERA, COOK! By: Charise Mericle Harper It’s “lights, camera, cook!” for four tween contestants who are all about to enter a televised cooking competition. What will the kids cook up? How will they all get along on- and offcamera? Which junior chef will have the grit—and maybe the grits—to make it through each challenge? FOOD TRUCK FEST! By: Alexandra Penfold Join the members of one family as they head to the Food Truck Fest! They gather their things, cross the bridge, and prepare for a fun-filled day. And as they get ready, the workers on the food trucks get ready, too--preparing, tasting, and traveling across the bridge to join all the other kitchens-on-wheels.

BOOM BY THE BAY July 4, 4 – 10 pm at the Julian B Lane Riverfront Park. This free, family-friendly event will have live entertainment, an Apple Pie Throwdown, a fireworks display, and more. Festivities will begin at 4 pm, and end after the fireworks show (at dusk). Pickleball tournament will begin at 2 pm. tampa.gov/BOOM EVENING OF FRUITS & FLORALS MIXOLOGY July 15, 6 – 8 pm at The Dali Museum. You’ll learn about infusing liquors with the flavors and notes of fruits and flowers before creating your own infusion to take home. Plus, enjoy some amazing craft cocktails while you enjoy a grazing board. thedali.org STAR SPANGLED SPARKMAN July 4, 4 – 9 pm at Sparkman Wharf. This free, family-friendly event features live entertainment, game zones, face painting, roaming performers, and prime waterfront views of the fireworks. Guests can enjoy the Blessing of the Fleet, a boat parade, a water ski show, and fireworks at 9 pm. sparkmanwharf.com FLOWER POWER GARDEN FEST July 13, 9 am – 2 pm at Parkesdale Farms Market in Plant City. Families are encouraged to dress up in their best 70s or hippie attire. Shop a curated selection of vendors offering an array of plants, and gardenrelated items, admission is free. More info on FB @Parkesdale. CAPYBARA MEET & GREET July 1 – 7 at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Includes insights into capybaras’ natural history, a chance to feed and interact with them, and a close-up experience where guests may fully appreciate the family of capybaras. This is a separate ticketed event. cmaquarium.org SCIENCE AFTER DARK July 12, 6 – 9 pm at MOSI. Enjoy science with included beer and wine selections, appetizers, and liquid nitrogen ice cream. Each event centers around hands-on science activities, planetarium shows, and demos specific to the theme of “Diggin’ Dinos.” Purchase tickets online. 18+. mosi.org SUMMER CLASSICS Every Sunday at the Tampa Theatre. Watch Apollo 13 on July 7; Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid on July 14; The Wizard of Oz on July 21; Do The Right Thing on July 28. Movies begin at 3 pm, purchase tickets online. tampatheatre.org SHREK THE MUSICAL, JR. July 18 – 21 at the Straz Center. This funny story of love and acceptance will lead you to a big, bright, beautiful world! The Patel Conservatory Theater’s middle school-aged actors in this professionally produced student production will bring Shrek to life. strazcenter.org ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW July 10 – Aug. 4 at the Straz Center. Watch Jobsite’s spin on the kitschy rock ‘n’ roll sci-fi gothic musical. Fans are encouraged to dress up. A kit with approved props for audience participation will be sold in the lobby, so please leave your newspapers, rice, and hot dogs at home. strazcenter.org TAYLOR SHINES: THE LASER SPECTACULAR July 20, 7:30 pm at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Pete. It’s two hours of non-stop Taylor Swift hits seamlessly blended with the world-famous touring Laser Spectacular & Light Show. The show also features large-screen video projection and 3-D glasses. The Swifties will love it! themahaffey.com

RED, WHITE & BLUES ON THE PLAZA July 5, 7 – 9 pm in Centennial Plaza in downtown Winter Garden. Extend your holiday celebration with the Grimes Alley Blues Band. Grab a nearby swing, dine at a nearby patio, or bring a chair for a front-row seat. Presented by the City of Winter Garden, this is a free community event. cwgdn.com FAIRY NIGHTS July 19, 6:30 – 9:30 pm at Leu Gardens. Explore and find all the Fairy Doors, meet real fairies, make your own creations at the fairy landings, and dress up in your best fairy-inspired attire. Foxtail Coffee with Cholo Dogs and Peak Season Pops will have food and treats available to purchase. Purchase tickets online. leugardens.org JAWS (1975) July 4, 7:30 pm at the Garden Theatre in Winter Garden. When a killer shark unleashes chaos on a beach community off Cape Cod, it’s up to a local sheriff, a marine biologist, and an old seafarer to hunt the beast down. Purchase tickets in advance. gardentheatre.org LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS July 12 – 28 at the Garden Theatre in Winter Garden. A meek and downon-his-luck floral assistant, Seymour Krelborn, stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” after his co-worker crush. Seymour discovers Audrey II’s extraterrestrial origins and the true drive for world domination. gardentheatre.org FIREWORKS AT THE FOUNTAIN July 4, 4 – 10 pm at Lake Eola Park. Enjoy live entertainment, familyfriendly fun, plus food and beverages available for purchase from a variety of vendors. At 9:10 pm, the sky will light up with a fireworks finale, set to a live patriotic performance by the Orlando Concert Band. orlando.gov TASTING WITH MASTER SOMMELIER July 7, 1:30 pm with George Miliotes at Judson’s Live. This is an intimate wine-tasting workshop with access to diverse and coveted varietals while learning the art of blind tasting. Guests will get six, 3oz. glasses of wine and a shareable charcuterie board. drphillipscenter.org RED, WHITE & BLUE 5K July 6, 7:30 am at the Ritz Carlton in Orlando. This is a walk or fun run family event you can enjoy while taking in the amazing landscape of the beautiful Grande Lakes Resort. The race takes place on the back 9 of the 18-hole championship course. All ages are welcome. Register online. runsignup.com TACOS & TEQUILA July 27, Sample & vote on your favorite among competing food trucks, taco shops & restaurants. Tacos, 30+ tequilas, beer, live entertainment + more are included in your ticket price. VIP is available for additional purchase. tacosandtequilaorlando.com CREATIVE CONNECTIONS July 7, at the Orlando Museum of Art. This program connects visitors of all ages with developmental and learning disabilities and those on the autism spectrum to art. Free, pre-registration is required. Please call 407-896-4231 ext. 262 or email education@omart.org to register. This program is sensory-friendly. BARCELONA VS MANCHESTER CITY July 30 at Camping World Stadium. Three-time reigning Premier League champions Manchester City will face Spanish powerhouse Barcelona. This FC Series friendly match will be one of four Manchester City exhibitions in the United States. campingworldstadium.com