FRINGE FESTIVAL June 5 – 16 at The Kress Contemporary in Ybor City. Fringe is comedy, theatre, music, storytelling, and improv, with indie performers from around the bay, and around the world. All of the 30-60 minute shows are in one building. festival.tampafringe.org JUNETEENTH CONCERT June 15, 4 – 9 pm at Albert Whitted Park in St. Pete. The Phyllis Wheatley Rise to Read Campaign will be hosting a live outdoor concert featuring headliner Shawn Brown, The Beat Down Band, Siobhan Monique, and Nathan Mitchell. Purchase tickets at pwrtrc.org/juneteenth2024. THE BIG RUN 5K June 1, 7:30 am at Al Lopez Park. In celebration of Global Running Day. This event is a timed 5k for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting your fitness journey. A portion of the profits will be donated to their charitable partner, Girls on the Run of Tampa Bay. runtampa.com URINETOWN June 14 – 29 at the Straz Center. A musical set in a Gotham-like city. A terrible water shortage has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single company that charges admission. Winner of three Tony Awards. strazcenter.org ZIPLINE Take a two-hour guided zipline experience. You’ll encounter over 3,000’ of zip lines and exhilarating aerial challenges while overlooking the wildlife and waters of Bayou Wilderness and Tampa Bay. Cross the 200’ suspension bridge over water and get the best views of the Bay! zipontampabay.com UNCORKED CREATIVITY June 14, 6 pm at MOSI. Enjoy a casual paint night with MOSI’s award-winning artist to guide you step by step through a themed painting. Sip on some complimentary wine, release your creativity, and leave with a “wall worthy” painting. Register in advance. mosi.org BAMBOO BASKET MAKING June 9, 10 am – 12 pm at the Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens. Learn the art of bamboo basket making from a master craftsman, Akihiro Mashimo, from Kyoto, Japan in this hands-on workshop. Create your own basket form to take home. Purchase tickets at morikami.org. ABDUCTED BY THE 80S June 22, 8 pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Wang Chung, Men Without Hats, The Motels, and Naked Eyes have joined forces to create a musical extravaganza that transports audiences to the heart of the neon-soaked, synth-driven decade. rutheckerdhall.com LES MISERABLES June 11 – 16 at the Straz Center. Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Miserables is a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. One of the most popular musicals of all time. strazcenter.org SUNSHINE SUNDAY June 30, 8 – 10 am at the Glazer Children’s Museum. Sunshine Sunday is a special monthly event for children with special needs and their caregivers. Come explore the Museum with lights and sounds turned down and sensoryadapted tools, special programs, and community resources at your fingertips. glazermuseum.org

UNCOMFORTABLE BRUNCH June 2, noon at Enzian Theater. Watch the film, “Ratcatcher” (1999) while trying to enjoy your brunch. Set during Scotland’s national garbage strike of the mid-1970s utilizing beautiful, elusive imagery, candid performances, and unexpected humor. The urban decay contrasts with a rich interior landscape of hope and perseverance. enzian.org FREE ADMISSION June 20, 10 am – 8 pm at the Orlando Museum of Art. Free admission to all visitors. The day will feature live performances, educational experiences, and more. Sketching materials will be available to visitors between 5 pm and 7 pm, and a docent-led highlights tour will be held at 7 pm. omart.org THE SMUGGLER- A THRILLER IN VERSE June 1 – 9 at the Straz Center. Irish immigrant Tim Finnegan wants to be a writer in America but struggles to find his path. In this mischievous, one-man, rhyming-verse dark comedy, step into his secret speakeasy (with a real working bar!) to hear a twisty story with unsavory characters and shady shenanigans. strazcenter.org DREAMWORKS LAND OPENS June 14 at Universal Orlando. Get ready to play in a colorful, imaginative new land at Universal Studios Florida! Meet Shrek and splash in his swamp. Scream with laughter on the Trollercoaster. And learn kung fu moves with Po. universalorlando.com BITE30 June 1 – July 7. Participating restaurants will offer special prix fixe menus that have multi-course dinners at a low set price. (Tax and tip not included.) Find the list of participating restaurants and menus at bite30.com. Win prizes by posting your meals. Details online. FOOD & LIVABILITY LESSON June 13, 5:30 – 7:30 pm at McQuigg Urban Farm. This free event will showcase how to grow food in urban gardens and hydroponic systems while exploring apiary management. Must register online. orlando.gov ROLLING STONES June 3 at Camping World Stadium. Fans can expect to experience Mick, Keith, and Ronnie playing their most popular hits ranging from “Start Me Up,” “Gimme Shelter,” and more, as well as fan-favorite deep cuts and music from their new album “Hackney Diamonds.” campingworldstadium.com FLORIDA FESTIVAL OF NEW MUSICALS June 23 – 26 at the Winter Park Playhouse. This is a four-day event that showcases six brand-new, never-before-produced musical works. The first act or one-hour version of each musical will be fully read and sung concert-style, without staging. winterparkplayhouse.org USA VS BRAZIL June 12, 7 pm at Camping World Stadium. The U.S. Men’s National Team will take on world power Brazil. The Allstate Continental Clásico is an annual event that features the USMNT hosting a top-tier opponent as a key part of the USA’s preparations for the prestigious 2024 Copa América. campingworldstadium.com SUNSET AT THE ZOO June 28, 5 pm. Join the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens at sunset as they proudly celebrate our LGBTQ+ friends and family! Families can enjoy crafts, food trucks, DJ, and of course the animals! centralfloridazoo.org

FAMILY GAME NIGHT June 5, 5 – 8 pm, join Bonnet Springs Park at the Rooftop Bar. Bring the whole family for an evening of family-friendly games, Happy Hour specials from 5 – 7 pm as well as food options. Bring a game to share, if you’d like. bonnetspringspark.com BEER & BUBBLES June 13, 5:30 – 8:30 pm in Downtown Winter Haven. With your ticket, you will receive a tasting glass and a map of participants. At each stop, you can sample a craft beer or sparkling wine / champagne with a lite bite pairing! centralfloridatix.com SUMMER BRICK PARTY June 1 – Aug. 11 at LEGOLAND. Jump into extreme levels of fun with thrilling shows, fan-favorite characters, refreshing limited-time food and beverage offerings, and tons of bricktastic fun under the sun – all included in general Park admission and select Annual Passes. legoland.com POLK PRIDE WEEK June 8 – 15. “There’s No Place Like Home.” Join Polk Pride at the Kickoff Brunch, Pride in Faith, Pride for Youth, Pride in the Park with over 100 vendors, Pride at Night, and Pride After Dark. polkpridefl.org WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET Summer hours are back, 9 am – noon! Visit this foodie market every Saturday in the parking lot across from Grove Roots in downtown Winter Haven. You’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, pasta, meat, seafood, etc. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com DAVID BRIMER AND MARCUS BRIXA June 8, 7 pm at Gram Parsons Derry Down with special guest Joe Gavin. This will be an intimate evening of instrumental guitar. The musicians found they had unique differences in their playing styles that complemented each other beautifully. gpderrydown.com WINE DOWNTOWN June 6, 4 – 8 pm in Downtown Lake Wales. Ticket price includes swag bag, a map of participating locations, and assorted wines/craft beers paired with food items at each location. Check-in is in front of the Citrus Mural on Stuart Avenue and Scenic Highway. centralfloridiatix.com BANDIT MARKET June 7, 5 – 9 pm at the Ritz Theatre during First Friday. Shop from over 50 local handmade and vintage vendors while enjoying delicious snacks, sweet treats, and their infamous cocktails and mocktails! Escape the heat and chill out at an indoor alternative market! More info on FB @thebanditmarket. POLK AT NITE June 27, 5 – 8 pm at the Polk Museum of Art. Take in the museum’s newest exhibits, “Nature & Mystery: The Art of Mally Khorasantchi and Hunt Slonem.” Your ticket includes a build-your-own elote corn bar by Cob & Pen and a house wine or beer. Dreamland Flora will have floral crowns to get you in full midsummer spirit. centralfloridatix.com POWERFUL WOMEN RISING June 12, 5:30 – 9:30 pm at Gram Parsons Derry Down. Empowering leaders for sustainable change presented by local maker, Sudz Cauldron. Discuss finance, marketing, and sustainable business practices. Free headshots, networking, and empowering female entrepreneurship. More info on FB @sudzcauldren.

A sandy path of broken glass lined on either side by discarded children’s toys, shopping carts, tires, and other refuse leads to a hovel hamlet. To get there, you must cross a bridge overlooking a canal that jet skiers and boaters take every day, unaware that yards away is a homeless camp with dozens of people who can’t secure affordable housing, earn a living wage, are without family, struggling through mental illness, or in active addiction. Though ramshackle, this tent city displays an amount of resourcefulness born out of desperation – desperation for identity, for something of one’s own. Old signs and headboards are turned into make-shift gates to separate one residence from the next. Multiple tents or tarps are strung together to create individual living spaces for families. Though best efforts are made to create a ‘home,’ these dwellings are a portrait of depression. This is one of Polk County’s five to six known homeless encampments. According to Talbot House Ministries Executive Director Maria Cruz, the amount of people experiencing homelessness has increased by almost 65% in the last three years. However, identifying the number of unsheltered individuals is a difficult task. Cruz notes that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Pointin-Time Count is a baseline but is not entirely reliable. The HUD 2023 Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Programs Homeless Populations and Subpopulations counted 776 homeless persons in Polk County. This number doesn’t reflect those who choose not to disclose their housing status or those in unknown encampments, among other discrepancies. “Single individuals are falling through the cracks because they have not been counted correctly,” Cruz said. All federal funding assigned to counties follows HUD’s Point-inTime Count. “We are not receiving the amount of funding that we should be receiving. Who is advocating in Congress for that to change nationwide? Not too many people,” said Cruz, who noted little to no County or City support. “The majority of our programs and services exist due to the community’s support.” McKinney-Vento is another metric to consider when estimating the unhoused population. According to the National Center for Homeless Education, “Each year, the states submit information regarding the education of students who experienced homelessness to the U.S. Department of Education (ED) as a part of the EDFacts Initiative. Using the most recently available data, this brief examines the number of students who experienced homelessness, the type of housing they used when first identified by school districts, and subgroups of students who experienced homelessness.” During the 2020-21 school year, approximately 62,971 students experienced homelessness in the state of Florida, making up 2.3 percent of all students in the state. Andrea Anderson is the Director of Community Outreach for Polk for Recovery, an organization “led by and for those in recovery from substance use, mental health, or other obstacles to wellness.” Each week, she and her team walk the dusty, rubbish-lined trails to check on folks in the camp – and extend help. They hand out clothes, food, water, hygiene kits, and offer treatment or safe housing. “I encourage everybody to visit the encampments [accompanied by Talbot House Ministries] so you can see in real-time the things that many people don’t want to be presented,” said Cruz. “Higher levels in the community don’t want that to be out there because, of course, they want to look good. Of course, they want the CRA to clean all this and present the best face. We want them to see the reality and not to forget that they are human beings.” While walking through the encampment with Anderson, we came across a young man who was shirtless and unkempt. Twenty-seven-year-old Nicholas has been homeless for a year and a half. After a family disagreement, he was kicked out of his house. His daily life consists of cleaning up around camp, cutting firewood for meals, and collecting water jugs to cook, bathe, and give to his dogs. Nicholas lives in a tent with his significant other, his mother, and her boyfriend. “There’s no real plan to it. You just kind of make the best of every day,” he said. He’s been at his current homestead for six months. Asked about his ideal life, Nicholas said, “I honestly couldn’t tell you. I haven’t thought that far ahead yet.” Anderson, as is her job and purpose in life, offered him hope in the form of her business card. From Heroin to Heroine Andrea Anderson is the kind of person who effuses genuineness. She cares about everyone in the camps and knows many of them by name, including pets. As we made our way through a vein of footpaths that trickled off to this tent or that one, she’d call out to folks, asking how they were and if they needed anything. She, herself, is a woman renewed. This life is all too familiar to Anderson. As Lorree from Gospel Village would say, it’s one of her taproots. But, you’ll read about her later. “I started using from a young age. My addiction progressed throughout the years,” Anderson said. Heroin and crack were her drugs of choice. By the time she ended up homeless, she’d been in and out of prison. “Getting out of prison, I had nothing left. I had to do things that I’m not proud of to support a habit that I had to use every day to stay well.” She hustled to make money to afford a motel room each night. “It was terrible. It was degrading,” she said. “I couldn’t look at cars that passed me on the street—I felt less than. Stores wouldn’t let me in to use the restroom.” Anderson said that her addiction kept her in bondage. She was ready to break free. “I went to jail the last time and was headed to prison for the second time. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired,” she said. “I gave my heart to Christ and asked for help. Immediately, I was changed. I knew that I never had to do that again.” When Anderson was released from prison, she entered a sober living facility in Polk County. She went through a treatment program, learned life skills to stay sober, and worked at a restaurant for seven years. She went on to work for Tri-County and eventually, along with her colleagues, helped to start Polk for Recovery with Executive Director Craig Pickos. Anderson is still involved in a 12-step program, keeps multiple service commitments, and gives back through her job in community outreach. “It helps keep me sober.” Having suffered through addiction, hustling to make money to have somewhere to rest her head at night must have been spiritually burdensome. To see it now through sober eyes can’t be easy. But Anderson has a different outlook on it. “I never personalize it. This is all God’s business. We’re out here planting seeds,” she said. “We’re meeting them where they are and offering them help. When they’re ready, they know us and might call us.” A Not-So-Simple Life Darlene is a special woman. Tough and sincere. Beaten down by circumstance, she was guarded but honest as she talked about life on the streets. While holding a newborn puppy she called Sweetie, she told us about the plants she tends. Darlene has a small garden of rosemary (for mosquitoes, she said), cacti, an Easter lily, and a plant she called ‘earache medicine.’ She does her best to keep her space and herself clean, which is a daily task. Darlene has been homeless for the better part of 20 years and has been in her current space for over 10. “My mother died. My father kicked me out after four years of taking care of her. I miss her,” she said. Darlene cared for her ailing mother 24/7, “But I’m okay with that. She was my mom.” Her mother had terminal throat cancer. “I fed her every four hours and made her gain weight. I took her to her treatments. I took care of the house, took care of the bills for Daddy.” Then, she was kicked out. Her father died six years later. With no brothers or sisters, “I don’t have anyone in my life,” she said. “We don’t know where we would go if we lost this,” she said of the property on which she lives. Her entire life is this cobbled-together homestead. She doesn’t want to enter a facility like Talbot House or Gospel Village because she’s worried she’d have to give up her animals. “I don’t think I could give my babies up,” she said of her five dogs. “They’re the only thing I’ve got to talk to.” “There’s a lot of depression. There are a couple of girls that want out of here,” Darlene said of the encampment. “The guys out here give us a hard time. We have a lot of stealing going on. I’ve lost my hatchet. I’ve lost my machete.” Being a single woman on the streets is demanding. It’s a lot of “taking up for yourself. The guys try to run over us a lot, and I won’t let them. You’re not telling me what I can and can’t do.” Meth and alcohol are the specific blights on Darlene’s community. “Everybody around here, they’re either on drugs or they trick.” “Every time we leave here, the cops pull us over and search us constantly,” she said, calling drugs an occasional temptation. “But I can’t afford it, so I don’t mess with it. I’d rather spend money on my dogs.” “I isolate myself from people,” said Darlene. Other than her puppies, Ms. Smith is her only friend and confidant. “She’s 85 years old and got more brains than I do,” Darlene said. “She sees me every day. She tells me when I need to go home and take a shower, when I need a haircut.” Deterioration of the backbone, skin cancer, and essential tremors slow Darlene – but they don’t stop her. Each morning, she wakes up to the mess outside her abode and does her best to clean it up. “The garbage around here wouldn’t be that bad if they would just set up a dumpster because all of us would put our trash in it.” Instead, she’s forced to burn and bury her garbage. “I cook me some breakfast, and then I get to work,” she said. Darlene collects water, washes dishes, scrubs laundry, rakes the yard, and cuts the grass with scissors under the merciless Florida sun. “It takes me all day to do what I need to do out here.” “Mentally, I’m burnt out,” Darlene admitted. “Talking to a psychiatrist don’t work and the medicine they give you don’t work. […] I don’t know what to say. I’ll be 58 years old in July. My body’s wearing out early.” “People just look at you like you’re nothing, and we do feel it. It’s like the rich men get it, and the poor people get nothing,” said Darlene as she shielded her eyes from the beating midday beams. “Let’s trade for 24 hours. Do what I do.” Asked how people could help her situation, her eyes brimmed with tears, “I don’t know,” she said, dejected. “I’ve had the Census Bureau out here several times. They keep saying they’re going to do something, but they don’t. It don’t get better. Grady Judd comes out here – it don’t help. They just throw us away.” In response, Sheriff Grady Judd called himself and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office advocates for the unhoused. “We spend an inordinate amount of time and resources in our homeless communities county-wide. We do that because we want to make sure they have the basic necessities – food, clothing, and shelter,” he said. Sheriff Judd noted he personally visits the homeless communities, inquiring about their needs. “We can’t control if someone lives in a homeless environment, but we certainly look out for them in that homeless environment. We can’t live their life for them, but we do our best to take care of them.” Talbot House Ministries Executive Director Maria Cruz called the Lakeland Police Department a great support to their efforts. “I do believe that the police department, either county or local, are not equipped to handle the homelessness crisis. I don’t believe the police were designed to be the first responders in homelessness intervention because they don’t have the resources; they don’t have the contacts. They are trying to do the best they can.” Cruz suggests coming together as a county to develop a task force of clinical and homelessness service providers that can work with law enforcement to address the crisis. “As providers, we are working scattered, trying to do the best we can. But we don’t have an integrated approach towards tackling the issue.” “I’m not a bad person. I don’t steal things, I don’t do drugs, I’m just stuck in a bad place,” Darlene said through misty eyelashes. “I’m not with all the drama and stuff that goes on. I don’t fit in out here.” “You need to know their stories. You need to know what caused their situation. Most of the time, it’s not drugs or mental health – it’s life happening,” said Cruz. Darlene hopes to escape the poverty that holds her underwater. Her life is a struggle for air. Weighed down by trauma, loss of family, and circumstance, all she craves is a deep breath – a gasp from her tired spirit. There’s no such thing as perfect, she said, but the closest thing to it would be “a little quiet small house. That’s all. And a little piece of property – just me.” Solutions to a Complex Issue Anderson, who checks on the encampments weekly, has an idea to mitigate homelessness – a housing-first initiative. This approach has proven successful in cities across the nation. Community First! Village is a master-planned neighborhood in Austin, Texas, that provides affordable, permanent housing and a supportive community for men and women who are coming out of chronic homelessness. Today, it occupies 51 acres and is a respite for more than 370 formerly homeless folks. In 2021, the Reseda Tiny Home Village opened in LA County. The Village consists of 52 units and 101 beds, helping unhoused Angelenos get off the streets, into a space of their own, and on a path to finding permanent housing. Housing-first initiatives can be seen locally in places like Talbot House Ministries and Gospel Village in Lakeland. On February 3, 2021, property on E. Lemon Street, formerly Royal Oak Estates, was purchased, and renovations began for what was to become Gospel Village. Today, Gospel Village has 34 units and 43 residents. Anderson imagines repurposing abandoned hotels. “Put the homeless in there, have them work for the hotel. Have them work for their daily wages and food and start feeling like productive members of society,” she said. Giving this dignified income – this purpose – could be an incentive to stay clean. “Right now, they don’t have a purpose, and they’re stuck in this addiction. [...] Small changes over a period of time make a difference,” Anderson said. Winter Haven City Manager T. Michael Stavres called homelessness and contributing issues “complex.” According to the City Manager, addressing it within any community requires a multifaceted approach utilizing multiple agencies. In Winter Haven, this includes entities such as the City, Polk County, Heart For Winter Haven, The Mission, Central Florida Health Care, Polk County Public Schools, and countless faith-based organizations. “The easy answer to how best to support the unhoused population is to provide housing, but that is no easy task, nor is it necessarily a cure-all solution. While having access to a greater inventory of affordable housing helps, it will not be sustainable without the wrap-around services that seek to address financial literacy, workforce skill development, mental and physical health support, and transportation,” said Stavres. The City of Winter Haven has established an Affordable Housing Trust Fund to help financially support new developments specifically aligned with affordable housing. According to Stavres, the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has also established incentive programs to help offset the development costs for projects within the CRA geographic areas. Additionally, the City’s Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) annually evaluates strategies to enhance and increase affordable housing availability as part of the State Housing Initiative Partnership Program (SHIP). We reached out to Lakeland Mayor Bill Mutz for a comment about how best to serve the unhoused population and any plans the City has for the issue, but we did not receive a response. According to their website, the City of Lakeland’s Housing Office works to preserve and develop affordable housing within city limits. “Homelessness can be reduced if we implement and work with tangible, evidencebased solutions,” said Maria Cruz. “Housing-focused programs work to reduce and resolve homelessness, so let us invest in those evidence-based practices.” According to the Talbot House Ministries executive director, Polk County takes a reactive approach to homelessness. “We need to work and invest more in preventing homelessness in the first place,” she said. Allocated crisis assistance dollars could prevent someone at risk of experiencing homelessness from losing their job or housing and help them get back on their feet. Regardless of the many possible solutions to the issue of homelessness, one plight remains – how we treat our unsheltered brothers and sisters. Often, those experiencing homelessness are said to be ‘on the fringes’ of society. But it’s more insidious than that. We exclude them from society altogether. We avert our eyes when we pass them on the street. We lock our car doors when they stand with a sign at the intersection. We deny them personhood as if lack of housing is a moral failure. Housing is growing more unaffordable by the day. Loss of family is devastating. Mental health struggles are debilitating. Addiction isn’t a choice. Darlene could be your mother, Nicholas your son. It could be you. If you have nothing else to give, be unsparing with your kindness. Photography by Amy Sexson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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