Let’s Go

Let’s Go! • Boat to Nowhere at Werner State Park

By Gretchen Losi

‘Ship’s ahoy!” Well, kinda sorta but not likely. It’s landlocked and handcrafted but with a little imagination the possibilities are endless. Still, this sweet little mullet boat is just begging to be boarded and explored. You’ll discover her just outside the parking lot of Werner State Park, Ritchie. The park also makes for a great hike along well maintained paths that lead to impressive native species of plants throughout the exotic mangroves. There you’ll spot a variety of native birds and reptiles so watch your step as you never know where you’ll stumble upon a nest with eggs - or worse. The natural spring is swimming with kayakers respectful of their surroundings which include a multitude of aquatic life and of course manatees.

IF YOU GO A mullet boat handcrafted by staff and volunteers greets visitors at Werner State Park. (Gretchen Losi)

This sweet stand offered us dinner and a show. The fruit she offered was better than anything we had from a store - ever. And being fourth generation, she was happy to tell us the history about the area around her farm near Groveland. (Gretchen Losi)

The park is handicap accessible with restrooms on the second floor. The small park is dog friendly and includes a snack trailer and kayak rental facility. º There are 3 entrances to the state park. • The main entrance 8737 US Highway 19 North, Port Richey • 10333 Scenic Drive, Port Richey • Black Rail Trail Head at 6641 State Road 52.

Let’s Go! • Sweet and Tasty Roadside Fruit

By Gretchen Losi

Just hearing the word “Florida’’ instantly conjures images of fresh fruit. A drive down a rural road brings that image to life. You don’t have to look far for a fresh fruit stand in Central Florida. Most that we experienced were family owned, some being generations deep. While they each have their specialties most will offer the coveted Florida orange in various sweet, bitter, or juicy varieties. Whatever your preference you can count on them always being vitamin packed. You can count on being offered a tasting of the different varieties and if you’re lucky enough to find a family owned stand, you might get quite the education on all things Florida citrus from a proud grower. Citrus isn’t all that’s sweet at the stand. There’s typically a plethora of exotic and native treats including pineapple, coconut, berries and mango to name a few. It’s a fun healthy stop where you can walk away with a bag full of Florida sunshine, make a new friend and support a local business.