July 11: Edible Florida with Don Philpott, Florida Master Naturalist, environmentalist, and author

Edible Florida covers basic foraging skills and many of the 1,700 wild plants found in Central Florida that are edible or have medicinal uses. 

July 18: The Way It Was: Stories that Shaped our Community with Dave Schlenker, Local writer/journalist

Be transported to a bygone era through a nostalgic journey across Central Florida’s past. Guests will explore the rich history and stories that shaped this community. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to delve into the past and uncover the treasures of heritage.

July 25: Citrus and Fruit Trees in Florida with Mark Bailey, UF/IFAS Extension Agent

An iconic emblem for the sunny state of Florida, explore the history and origins of citrus fruits, and varieties cultivated throughout the years, including the future of good gardening fruit trees in this area.

August 1: 14,000 years of Prehistory in Marion County with Scott Mitchell, Coordinator of Silver River Museum

Discover the ancient paleo and archaic roots of Marion County. Dive into the different atmospheres and dramatic changes that shaped cultures of those who inhabited or travelled to early Marion County. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the rich heritage and people of this region.

August 8: Supporting Civic Youth Engagement for the Environment with Dr. Megan Ennes, Assistant Curator of Museum Education and Director of the Thompson Earth Systems Institute in the Museum of Natural History at the University of Florida

During this talk, learn how to support the youth in this community as they take civic action for the world around them.  Discover how to engage in Community Action Projects for the Environment and leverage other resources from the Thompson Earth Systems Institute to support youth-led change.

August 15: Enduring Legacies: Exploring the Past from the Seminole Perspective with Bill Locascio, Research Manager Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum

This lecture will provide oversight about Seminole history and how the Museum staff is making the history of the Seminole Tribe of Florida broadly accessible. Learn more about the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum and the archaeological field research in the 21^st century.