January 28, 2010

Florida’s Largest Civil War Battle Remembered

Filed under: Events — Administrator @ 12:00 pm

By the Department of Environmental Protection

On February 20, 1864, the largest Civil War battle to ever be fought on Florida soil took place on the grounds of Olustee, a small town just east of Lake City and west of Jacksonville. Each February, the Florida Park Service holds a reenactment of the battle that involved more than 10,000 cavalry, infantry and artillery troops and took the lives of more than 1,800 Union soldiers and 900 Confederate soldiers, but ended with the retreat of the Union troops back to Jacksonville.

Now every year, to commemorate those brave soldiers, more than 2,000 living history reenactors come together at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park to give visitors a glimpse into both the military and civilian lives of those who took part in this historic event nearly a century and a half ago. The reenactors meticulously ready themselves to impersonate the Civil War soldiers, from the types of clothing and footwear to the period hairstyles, facial hair, eyewear and weaponry of the day.

Photo courtesy Sam Holton

This year’s battle reenactment will take place on Saturday, February 13 at 3:30 and again at 1:30 on Sunday, February 14. There will also be medical demonstrations, period music concerts, and military camps and drills on both days. On Friday, December 12, the park caters to school age children and teachers with “School Day” – a day filled with many educational programs planned around the reenactment for students of all ages to enjoy and learn about a major event in Florida”s history.

Admission for Saturday and Sunday is $7 for adults and $3 for children over age 5. Friday’s “School Day” student admission is $2; for pre-registration and additional information, call 1-877-635-3655.

Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park also features a one-mile hiking trail with markers describing the events of the battle, an interpretive center with exhibits and artifacts, and picnic areas nestled in a shaded grove of tall pines. To learn more about this and Florida’s 159 other award-winning state parks, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org.

Photo courtesy Sam Holton

January 25, 2010

Deborah J. Green Gives Kids Something to Crow About

Filed under: Around Florida, Fun Floridians — Administrator @ 12:00 pm

In her new book, Florida writer Deborah J. Green encourages children to find their own unique talent. Doodle & the Moon is a children’s book about Doodle, a rooster who prefers to crow at night rather than in the morning. With the help of his farm friends, Doodle learns that there’s a time and a place for everything, including crowing. With illustrations by Izabela Ciesinska, Doodle & the Moon is an adorable book for parents to read to their children. Each book includes an interactive ending where children can answer questions regarding their daily habits.

An enthusiastic seventh generation Floridian, Green grew up in Bradford County and now lives in Melrose. Green loves life and sharing time with her friends and family. Since the publication of her book, she’s been touring schools and libraries around North Florida, teaching children about problem solving and communication.

Florida Monthly: What made you want to write a children’s book?

Deborah Green: Writing a children’s book has been in the back of my mind since college. I think the catalyst was having grandchildren and having a project that honored my grandfather. I really wanted reading to be FUN for my granddaughters and for them to love books – and they do!

FM: What were some of your inspirations for Doodle & the Moon?

DG: My granddaughters were a definite inspiration. I wanted to do something that made a difference. With Doodle & The Moon, to me it’s as much the story behind the story as the story itself. It’s encouraging parents and grandparents to spend quality time reading with their children and grandchildren. It’s about encouraging students to read and find their talents.

FM: I noticed that you’ve read the book at schools and libraries across Florida – how has it helped children?

DG: The school programs have been real eye-openers. I read the book to the students and then we talk about the process of publishing. But, more importantly I think, is our discussion about finding your own special talent(s). I relate stories about my childhood and the fact that I really tried to be an athlete. It wasn’t until later that I tested my artistic talents and found my niche. I encourage students to try new things – find their own very special talent – whether it be athletic, artistic, academic, etc. I feel really good about relaying that message!

FM: Do you plan on writing more children’s books?

DG: YES! When visiting the schools, the students have asked me to write a chapter book. I may just give that a try!

Check out Doodle & the Moon at Florida Books and Videos.

January 11, 2010

Happy 75th Anniversary to Florida State Parks

Filed under: Events — Administrator @ 12:00 pm

by Florida Department of Environmental Protection

The National Archives is celebrating its 75th anniversary in Washington, DC. In Bradford, Pennsylvania they are celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Zippo lighter. Here in Florida, however, is perhaps the most fun 75th anniversary of all – Florida’s 160 award-winning state parks have officially been giving Floridians and visitors from around the world an affordable, educational and non-traditional getaway for three quarters of a century.

Yes, Florida State Parks celebrates its 75th anniversary with a year-long list of special events that are as diverse as those who pass through the gates. From a Snorkeling Tour at Rainbow Springs to an Easter Egg Hunt at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou … from Jazz in the Park at the Florida Caverns to the Antique Tractor Show at Stephen Foster … from a Kid’s Fishathon at Oscar Scherer to a Cystic Fibrosis Walk at Maclay Gardens … from the most prestigious surfing contest on the east coast at Sebastian Inlet to – well, you get the point. Everyone can find something of interest in Florida’s state parks.

Today, the Department of Environmental Protection oversees the state park system, but it didn’t always. Following the Great Depression, in an effort to help ease the burden of unemployment, the Franklin D. Roosevelt administration initiated the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1935. The program helped put unemployed men to work undertaking conservation efforts, including restoring and developing state and federal lands for public recreation. The program’s director wrote a letter to then Florida Governor David Schultz encouraging him to take advantage of the program. By June 1935, four state parks had been created and in 1942, when the CCC stopped operating, 11 parks comprising just over 25,000 acres had been acquired and turned over to the Florida Park Service. Today more than 700,000 acres in submerged and upland acreage make up Florida’s state park system.

In 1935, the Legislature appropriated an annual operating budget of $25,000; today Florida’s state parks contribute an economic impact of just under $1 billion. The first three state parks that were officially opened to the public attracted more than 100,000 visitors; in recent years, annual visitors numbered more than 20 million.

A trip to a Florida State Park can be a journey back into old Florida with a visit to the Koreshan State Historic Site in Estero, or it can be an underwater adventure amidst the beautiful coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. The three day annual Florida Folk Festival in White Springs can bring out the kid in everyone, or get in touch with that competitive side at the mountain bike races at Alafia River State Park – touted as some of the most challenging off-road bike trails in Florida.

Feel like doing some fishing, outdoor camping, canoeing, strolling, tubing or seeing Florida’s wildlife up close? Are you a history buff, a beach bum, a bird watcher or a horseback rider? Do you crave adventure, long for serenity, or marvel in awe at the wonders of nature? It’s easy to find your niche at one of Florida’s 160 state parks. Stay tuned monthly throughout 2010 to learn what special activities are planned for the Florida State Parks’ 75th Anniversary. In the meantime, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org to learn more about Florida’s natural wonders, or follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/flstateparks.

Photo credit - A. Emtiaz

Some Events to Look Forward to in 2010 include:

*    January 2-3 – Dade Battle Reenactment at Dade Battlefield Historic State Park
*    February 12-14 – 34th Annual Reenactment of the Battle of Olustee
*    March 13-14 -  Azalea Festival at Ravine Gardens State Park
*    March 19-20 – Wakulla Wildlife Festival at Wakulla Springs State Park
*    April 24 – Burial of Time Capsule, O'Leno State Park
*    May – Military Appreciation Month
*    May 28-30 – Florida Folk Festival at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
*    July – Recreation & Parks Month
*    September – Literacy Month
*    November 6 – 25th Annual Civilian Conservation Corps Festival at Highlands Hammock State Park
*    December 10 – 50th Anniversary Celebration of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

January 4, 2010

Something for All in Polk County

Filed under: Apryl's Florida, Around Florida — Administrator @ 12:00 pm

By Apryl Chapman Thomas

Located about an hour from both Orlando and Tampa, Polk County couldn’t have asked for a better location in the state. However, placing geographic attractiveness aside, Polk County definitely can stand on its own when it comes to reasons why travelers should visit.

Home to such places as Circle B-Bar Reserve, Lang’s Sun Country Fruit Shop (known for grapefruit pie), Chalet Suzanne and Florida’s Natural Grower Grove House, Polk County is diverse in its offerings.

All it takes is one weekend here and you’ll discover there’s definitely more to Central Florida than you thought.

1. The Water

Home to over 554 lakes, Polk County offers ample fishing (noted as the “Largemouth Bass Capital of the World”), boating, air boating and water-skiing opportunities. It’s here that you’ll find such water gems as the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes and Lake Kissimmee. Be sure to check out the Water Ski Hall of Fame and Museum in Polk City.

2. The Outdoors

In addition to the aforementioned Circle B-Bar Reserve, Polk County also offer such outdoor delights as the Trek Ten Trails and the Great Florida Bird Trail. Rest assure the area doesn’t disappoint when it comes to outdoor fun.

3. The Gardens

An urban oasis in downtown Lakeland, Hollis Garden (on the southern shore of Lake Mirror) isn’t your typical 20-minute walk through to see the plants type garden. No, this 1.2-acre botanical garden tells a story about the state’s agriculture through different garden “rooms.” Pay attention to the small details as well, such as the reuse of curbs as part of a walkway to the grotto. Some of the features include sculpture art placed throughout and “Trees of Americana,” which are trees grown from seedlings or cuttings taken from original trees owned by notable figures in America, like Patrick Henry.

Once you tear yourself away from looking at the enormous and magnificent Singing Tower with its 60-bell carillon, Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales offer ample gardens to explore, along with the Pine Ridge Nature Preserve and Trail. Located on the highest point on Florida’s peninsula, this state attraction is a great place to reflect and recharge. A visit here isn’t complete without touring Pinewood Estate.

4. The Arts

Take in an exhibit at the Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland or at The Lake Wales Arts Center. Catch a performance or film at The Polk Theatre, a restored venue from 1928 that once played host to Elvis. Wherever your art interests lay, you are sure to find a venue for it in Polk County.

5. The Architecture

If there is a one thing that everyone should do when they are in Polk County, it’s the Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture self-guided tour at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. The campus is home to the largest collection of the famed architect’s work, 12 buildings in all. It’s something to see how these structures blend with the landscape, even in this day and age.

Winter Gardens is home to Gene Leedy, one of the founding fathers of the Sarasota School of Architect, and his works. Best seen by car, you can download an audio tour guide at the website.

6. The “Sky High” attractions

If you’re interested in flying, then you are in the right place. The area is home to the annual Sun ń Fun event every April, located at the Florida Air Museum in Lakeland. The museum itself is quite fascinating as it provides a look into the history of flight, and offers a large Howard Hughes collection. On display includes personal flight suits, models, drawings, photographs and much more.

Over in Polk City is Fantasy of Flight, which allows you to see what it was like to fly a plane throughout history. Find yourself in the trenches during World War I, and then get your orders for a bombing mission in World War II. Afterward you can view the vintage aircraft collection and watch flying demonstrations. Then again, why watch, when you can fly yourself. Fantasy of Flight offers a ride in a biplane or hands-on in a WWII Boeing Stearman.

For the adventurous, go hang gliding at Wallaby Ranch in Davenport or skydiving at Florida Skydiving Center in Lake Wales.

Did you know?
*    Home to several different species of birds, Lake Morton Bird Sanctuary is probably best known for swans. It’s a must-visit, as you can watch these elegant birds glide around the lake.
*    Not only can you sample Moon Soup and grapefruit pie in Polk County, but also candy as well. Take a “sweet” tour of Davidson of Dundee and Webb’s Citrus Candy Factory in Davenport.

Accessible from I-4 and I-75, Polk County is located in the geographical center of Florida.

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