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SPRINGTIME’S BIRD-CHIRPING WEATHER
ool nights are over and now it’s time to go out and about—even while dodging the lovebugs and putting up with allergies. The months of April and May get the farmers farming, the ranchers ranching, the explorers exploring and the birds chirping! Not that any of these activities truly ever stop, but our Sunshine State climate during these months is ideal. One farming operation hard at work is Happiness Farms, Inc. Soon its colorful shades of caladiums will brighten the roads of Lake Placid, known as the “Caladium Capital of the World,” and myriad other landscapes near and far (page 26). Another agriculture organization with a “world” appeal is U.S. Sugar. It owns one of the largest private Wi-Fi networks in the world, and that network plays a big part in growing food for American families (page 30). Florida Country Magazine wants to give a big shout-out to our state’s farmers for not just putting food on our tables— but also for supplying all types of products that we use in our everyday life. In addition, the months of April and May in Florida mean that outdoor activities are “calling our name,” and we have plenty of options. Lovers of the land and sea are on the prowl! Hop aboard the Sea Hare, owned by Salty Water Tours (page 56). Tour Teacher Emily Seibert and Capt. Rob White will give you a memorable experience that includes Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, scenic views, swimming, shelling and much, much more. Take a journey to Punta Gorda, in Charlotte County. Home to the Military Heritage Museum, this tropical paradise city has a little bit of everything. Great for a vacation or just a day trip—it won’t disappoint (page 32).
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F LO R I D A C O U NTRY A p r i l | M a y 2 0 2 1
Usually, “April showers bring May flowers.” But that’s not so true in Florida. April is still normally known as our dry season. However, the month of May can be a little wet—and who loves wet? Mud and trail riding enthusiasts, that’s who! It used to be about trucks and four-wheelers, but side-by-sides are taking over! Just ask Fort Myers-based Sun Sports Cycle & Watercraft, Inc. These vehicles were largely used (and still are today) in the agricultural community, but thanks to Honda introducing its Rhino in 2004, an awful lot of extra recreation and fun have been added to the mix (page 74). In fact, the side-by-side community is so large that there are now events made just for it. For example, take Redneck Mud Park’s “Wheelers Gone Wild Spring Sling,” set for April 18 to 21, 2021. This family-friendly weekend brings people from all over the United States to enjoy a “mudcation” of a lifetime. You will see every type and style of side-by-side—from stock to lifted, a wide variety of makes and models, “insane” customizations and sound systems that make you think you are at a concert. And the event is not only for the side-by-side community because it is also designed to celebrate all-terrain vehicles. Maybe we better rethink my above comment about the month of April still being dry! Redneck Mud Park makes sure you will be muddy from head to toe (page78). Take advantage of our great state and what it has to offer. Enjoy life, be safe and count on us to bring you information on things to do and places to go, and to educate you about our agricultural community. Stay strong, “Live the Life” and keep on “Farming Seeds of Family Traditions.” That’s what Florida Country is about! SCARLETT REDENIUS, Publisher
