Zora Neale Hurston
From her heyday as a writer during the Harlem Renaissance, to her ignominious burial in an unmarked Florida grave, Zora Neale Hurston’s life story – like her novels – was filled with triumph, despair, and redemption, all set against a uniquely Floridian backdrop. So, in honor of Black History Month, New Florida retells Hurston’s tale and celebrates the wonderful work this gifted African-American novelist and folklorist produced.

 

Teen Trendsetters
Sure, some teens are “trendsetters” because they’re stylish, others because they own the latest gadgetry or even a tricked-out car. But the teen trendsetters that impressed us are those who are setting an example by becoming mentors to younger children. New Florida profiles the “Teen Trendsetter” program, a statewide initiative that’s helping boost the reading skills of Florida 3rd graders by pairing them up with willing high school-age mentors.

 

Revisiting Virginia Key
Before Miami’s Virginia Key Beach was designated a “coloreds only” beach in 1945, African-Americans could not legally sun themselves in the sand or swim in the waves at any of Dade County’s public beaches. Now, the Virginia Key Beach Park Trust is working to preserve the 82-acre strip of seashore for the next generation. New Florida visits Virginia Key to learn more about this historic gem.

 

Father Time
If you think having to reset your alarm clock for daylight savings time is a nuisance, imagine how Joe Cohen feels. He began collecting clocks more than three decades ago, and now has more than 400 museum-quality timepieces spread throughout his Florida home. New Florida takes time out to visit Joe and see a few of his favorites, including a clock designed as a nightlight for Pope Alexander the 7th, and a watch known as “the French onion.”

 

Hike the Dike
If you’re yearning to lose yourself in the great outdoors, try hiking the “LOST trail.” That’s Florida’s acronym for the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail, a 110-mile long footpath that runs along the top of the dike surrounding the massive South Florida lake. New Florida hikes the trail with Jerre Killingbeck, a Park Ranger who has contributed his time – and even his money – to making the trail a truly desirable destination for Florida hikers.