Florida Country Magazine - April/May 2023

FCM CIRCLE A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER page 8

COUNTRY CALIBER THE COUNTRY MUSIC CRUISE page 10

FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY page 16

HORSIN' AROUND FLORIDA’S GOETHE STATE FOREST page 20

FLORIDA HARVEST MARIJUANA GOES MAINSTREAM page 24

ECHO

GLOBAL FARM page 28

LOCAL FLAVOR FLORIDA CRACKER COOK SHACK page 44

PICTURE PERFECT page 48

FISH ON 10TH ANNUAL FGCU FISHING INVITATIONAL page 54

THE BRAND BRANDING FLORIDA'S CATTLE HISTORY page 58

COUNTRY WIDE MARGARITAVILLE AT SEA page 60

FLORIDA CHARM GILCHRIST BLUE SPRINGS STATE PARK page 64

WILD

FLORIDA CROCS ARE MAKING A COMEBACK page 68

STARS & GUITARS THE CHAMP JAXON BAND page 72

THE CULINARY CRACKER WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN page 76

Owner/Publisher Scarlett Redenius

Owner/C.E.O. Brad Redenius

President Thomas Fifield

Vice President Sheila Fifield

Editorial Director Katherine Waters

Design Director Brian Stromlund

Travel Editor Dave Kelly

Contributing Writers

Jack Collier, Kaitlin Danks, Jenna Dawson, Craig Handel, Kym Rouse Holzwart, Dave Kelly, Ben Knowles, Bill LaPlante

Featured Photographers

Avery Bristol, Amy Justice Buie, Todd Bush, Victoria Cummings, Sam Dean, Desiree Deliz, Craig Distl, Kevin Enge, Donald Hazlett, Ashley Head, Kym Rouse Holzwart, Jared Kay, Ben Knowles, Bill LaPlante, AJ Messina, Angela Norton, Bethany Respress, Yesaira Rivera, Tim Robison, Kayla Roddenberry, Kristina Rodriguez, William Steele, Desiree Vaughn, Amanda Warren, Alicia Wellman

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For other inquiries contact: Scarlett Redenius, Publisher 239-692-2613

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Published by: Florida Country Publications PO Box 50989 • Fort Myers, FL 33994

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Florida Country magazine is published bi-monthly, copyright 2023, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by expressed written permission of the publisher.

All articles, descriptions and suggestions in this magazine are merely expression of opinions from contributors and advertisers and do not constitute the opinion of the publisher, editor or staff of Florida Country magazine, and under no circumstances constitutes assurances or guarantees concerning the quality of any service or product. Florida Country magazine specifically disclaims any liability related to these expressions and opinions. Florida Country magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions. The advertiser agrees to hold harmless and indemnify the publishers from all liability.

FLY HIGH, SWEET HARRIET!

On a personal level, I’ve never had a story touch me like the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. I’ve been following Ozzie and Harriet since 2015. I heard of the cam before and tuned in a couple of times, but when all the news started of an intruder coming in for Ozzie’s love, my attention was all theirs.

The intruder was M-15, a young eagle and very persistent. Ozzie earlier in 2015 had already spent three months at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) for a broken clavicle (like our collar bone), but that would be short lived. It is suspected that M-15 was the actual eagle that dueled with our beloved Ozzie, sending him back to the hospital where he would succumb to his injuries in September 2015.

I was crushed and angry. I swear, I wanted to drive right over to Dick Pritchett Real Estate and give Harriet a piece of my mind and have M-15 arrested for murder.

Oh, the drama! How am I, a grown woman, crying and getting so upset over eagles. Well, I was not the only one—in fact, one of millions. I was so distraught and angry, especially at M-15—I quit watching!

Years would go by; I would listen to the news following their journey because I no longer was. I wasn’t mad anymore, but deep down inside, I was still loyal to Ozzie. I never felt the same about Harriet and M-15 as I did with Ozzie and her—that would soon change.

It was 2020 and the SWFL eagles would soon become part of my life again. I’m watching the news and here comes these eagles. This time, one of them has preyed upon a squirrel— not just any squirrel, but a stuffed squirrel, a toy, even with its tag still on it. I could not stop laughing as they attempted to de-fur the stuffed animal. Stuffing falling all over the place and perplexed with their meal, eventually giving up and the baby eaglets would snuggle up to it— I was hooked again.

How funny, reunited with this not-so-new eagle pair by a stuffed animal. I even felt different for them as a couple, but still not like the feeling I had for Ozzie and Harriet, but a start.

I would tune in and out, going months and even a year at a time, but soon this real-life soap opera in animal form would grab hold of me, yet again. This time, way worse than when Ozzie passed away. Now it was my dear Harriet—she was missing and feared dead.

I don’t think I’ve cried so much, feeling anxiety for Harriet at times, but most of all a new love for M-15. Harriet was indeed gone and not coming back.

The odds were against M-15 and the eaglets' survival was slim, they were so young. To this day, he has successfully raised these eaglets, E-21 and E-22. He has fought off predators and continued to nurture them from a very young age, until now. Any day they will fledge the nest and be on their own.

There have been so many tense moments in this story, and they have defied all odds until now. The once fated eaglets are now venturing out onto limbs in their tree, leaving us at times tuning in to an empty nest.

I’m so proud of M-15, and he has now become irreplaceable to me, my favorite, just like Ozzie. I hope he stays at the nest when the eaglets leave. I hope he will finally have time to mourn his loss and in time, start a new family. One thing for sure, I am now loyal to M-15, and I’ll be watching.

Harriet was one of a kind in my books, and I’d like to believe she and Ozzie have both looked over M-15 and the eaglets. Here’s to rose-colored glasses and fly high, my sweet Harriet! I hope you enjoy Bill LaPlante’s article on the eagles, page 32.

SCARLETT REDENIUS, Publisher

THE COUNTRY MUSIC CRUISE

YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE AT SEA

Written by: Jack Collier

Where can you enjoy the country music that you love - both old and new – in a whole new way? Start with this ship! The Country Music Cruise heads out for a 7-day trip into the Caribbean Sea on Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam every year, replete with fresh country songwriters, singers and musicians that are innovative and exciting, as well as those from a generation ago who still pack a traditional punch on stage.

This year’s cruise featured 50 unique performances, Q&A sessions, bourbon samplings, performer cooking demos, theme nights, off-ship excursions in Dutch, French and American ports, and LOTS of food and sun. Classic acts such as The Oakridge Boys and Moe Bandy showed off their country music chops, and a generous slice of newer performers like The Malpass Brothers and 50 Shades of Hay rounded out the excitement.

Sound like fun? Then let’s get started!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Sailing for over a decade, The Country Music Cruise features performances from mid-morning to near midnight. There is a main stage, for a thousand-plus people, and smaller side stages dot the rest of the ship. You get an assigned seat in the auditorium for the big evening shows, easing the anxiety to rush. Servers bring drink orders to your seat.

Texas native Neal McCoy starts the day at sea with the Pledge of Allegiance, which he had done on social media for years. McCoy can grab you, mixing his stories with music—a Las Vegas-meets-roadhouse type of performer. He is also in the ship’s gym every morning, where he will chat you

up. McCoy has performed for American troops around the world – he is a stand-up guy with a great show.

There were other sidebar cruise events such line-dancing lessons and a karaoke sing-off that filled out the packed agenda. The winner opened the final night at sea for Pam Tillis, daughter of the legendary Mel Tillis and a great performer in her own right.

On the Nieuw Amsterdam, a city-sized ship that checks in at 936-feet and features eleven decks, you will find saunas, health instruction and other amenities, including 24-hour cabin service. It is a relaxed atmosphere – we even saw a retired California preacher that we had met receiving a cosmetic injection on the ride.

There are no cash transactions, all purchases are on the cabin card you wear on a lanyard around your neck. But remember, to be prepared for The Country Music Cruise, or any sailing, get in the mindset of organizing things in advance, as following a few simple procedures and processes will ease you aboard.

WORK BEFORE PLAY

While the point of any cruise is to have fun, be ready - scroll the Internet, read reviews, ask around - do anything to learn about the cruising subculture, which has its own language and fans. Rule Number One should be that someone oversees all the details. In our case, it was Wendy, my travel companionthe relentless navigator. In our travels, she points, and I go – it is a system that works well with us. Documenting our trip was my job, and I filled up notebooks in doing so. Yes, there is that much happening on The Country Music Cruise.

This year’s cruise featured 50 unique performances, Q&A sessions, bourbon samplings, performer cooking demos, theme nights, off-ship excursions in Dutch, French and American ports, and LOTS of food and sun. You'll find saunas, health instruction, line-dancing, and other amenities.

Oak Ridge Boys

Moe Bandy Pam Tillis

Clay Walker

Wendy used Holland America’s website and its travel app to upload passports and Covid test results. Holland’s HAL Navigator app is very helpful – for example, it streamlines things with digital boarding - so following Holland America’s instructions allows you to glide through boarding, to schedule events and excursions, and to get your plans in good order. On this trip you will need a passport. Be sure to plan 6 – 8 weeks out for it to arrive if you do not have one on hand. Do not hesitate on your documents, because without them your trip on the water is going to be on an inflatable pool ducky.

An easy way to learn about a cruise is to join or read Facebook group postings, which can be found by searching your social media. Several dozen cruisers on our sailing posted updates months ahead of our ride, asked questions, had good feedback for others, and shared happy thoughts the night before boarding. Many had been on multiple cruises, so their advice was solid. Most also met up the first day aboard. Again, plan. It will pay off at dockside arrival, which in the case of this cruise was the Port Everglades terminal in Fort Lauderdale.

THEN THINGS TAKE ON A COUNTRY TILT

If your family comes from the hills as mine did, fiddles and mandolins and harmony are as natural to me as breathing,

and nothing matches the excitement of experiencing a live show with performers that you know from way back. Seeing so many acts all in one place, you may be skeptical as to how they can perform at their peak and entertain a full ship of country music fans.

Worry not - the music on this cruise is amazing. Listening to the likes of Jimmy Fortune, the former Statler Brothers member, shows that this man still kills it into his 60’s, singing like the songbird that he is. Then The Oak Ridge Boys hit the main stage. Oh, boy, you might think, are these guys past their prime? But as each man’s old motor cranked over and they launched into the body of their one-hour show, it became evident that the four performers can still rock.

We then met The Malpass Brothers, Chris and Taylor—a young rockabilly combo with a killer set of originals and cover songs—and our minds exploded. They were also funny, in an old radio-comedy sort of way. These boys are invited back in 2024.

Also appearing were Texan headliner Clay Walker, the original Urban Cowboy Johnny Lee, and Alabama’s founding member Randy Owen, as well as other top-notch acts such as T. G. Sheppard/Kelly Lang, Janie Fricke, and Moe Bandy. We even met Moe’s veteran piano player,

Mark Chestnut

Jimmy Fortune

T.G. Sheppard and Kelly Lang

Ray Scott

Tommy Rials, who had a super loose personality and stories to share over lunch at our table.

Another unique aspect of The Country Music Cruise is that the performers make themselves available to the passengers throughout the trip. In the buffet lines and around the ship, they chat up their fans. The ageless Janie Fricke sat for a quick interview with us before jetting to do onboard promotions for a country TV broadcast. Her manager/husband Jeff Steele sipped coffee and smoked outside the next morning. He told delightful stories of his time in show business.

Many of the artists paid tribute to classic performers such as Elvis over the seven days of cruising from Fort Lauderdale to Saint Maarten and back. Karen Hester, for example, does a great Dolly Parton show. How, you might wonder, do people end up impersonating others? They are simply mimics at heart. Elvis is the most imitated performer ever, and several artists on our trip did an admirable job covering the King.

Side bar: Remember that boats float. There was a slight tilting as our ship surged through Atlantic chop that seemed light but was in fact 10-foot rollers, providing an odd sensation in the enclosed auditorium. The pink boo-boo patch you see behind passengers’ ears is for motion sickness, so be sure to check into this and purchase motion patches in advance of boarding if rolling seas make you woozy, as the prices we checked on the islands were super expensive.

FOOD, PEOPLE, AND KARAOKE CHAMPS

No question about it - music and nostalgia are two big reasons that we sailed on The County Music Cruise. Themed cruises are huge in travel, and StarVista LIVE has other such adventures available as well: The Big Easy, Flower Power, Soul Train and more.

Cruise ships in 2022 generated about $18 billion for the various lines. That breaks down to about $215 per day in ticketing, another $100 per day onboard. Pulling into port with four of these giant liners docked in Saint Maarten, you get an idea of just how huge the business is. Tourists literally pour from these boats as water from a jug. Yet what you get in exchange is beyond measurable. A cruise ship’s secret sauce is simple—exotic travel, plenty of food, and service - as in really, really good service. Our cabin had two stewards, friendly men always with a smile and greeting. Our starboard-facing cabin was faultless and clean with plenty of hot water to wash. The crew was super friendly, as well.

At feeding times, there were food stations, each with servers who know what they are doing. It was a pleasure to be treated with such respect and quality. There were also dinein options, some that cost extra. We laughed as passengers hovered 15 minutes before serving times, peeking behind opaque curtains as meticulous chefs checked food temps and exact plating arrangements.

Most importantly of all, you will be entertained on The Country Music Cruise, not just by the musicians but by your fellow passengers. We met Arthur Hammons, the afore-mentioned retired pastor, who was interesting and colorful. And M. Neil Browne with his rainbow hair and his wife Nancy Kubasek. They told us that it was their 75th time at sea and were sweet and adventurous people. We met Barbara and Jerry Donahoo, our seatmates in the auditorium. She was like a friendly Texan personal playbill, with a wealth of information on the performers that she shared with us.

This surprising “hidden value” to the cruise was so pleasurable, in fact, that I recommend a fat notebook to track your new friends and adventures on The Country Music Cruise.

Looks like you might want to plan well ahead or get a person with magic fingers working the Internet though, because next year’s sailing on The Country Music Cruise is already booked full. But do not forget, there other such themed cruises with StarVista LIVE, the entertainment

brand affiliated with Dick Clark Productions. So those magic fingers should hunt for cancellations for the January 2024 country cruise or check out one of the others below.

StarVista LIVE has other such music cruises, like the New Orleans-themed Big Easy Cruise, which sails in November. And there are other genre cruises - disco, rock, outlaw country and R&B, for example - all with cool stopovers in South Florida and into the Caribbean. These experiences come with crazy-good service, spas, gyms, fun amateur shows, and simple relaxation. Picture adventures in the cobalt Atlantic, a refreshing sea breeze easing your mind, flying fish gliding the water’s surface and strange birds darting after them miles from shore, under a canopy of stars away from the loud lights of Florida. Do not forget that you can relive your Country Music Cruise on a “souvenir reel” at StarVista LIVE’s YouTube channel too.

And of course, there is always 2025 to plan for! FCM

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StarVista LIVE, starvistalive.com Holland America Line, hollandamerica.com

FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY

STORY BEHIND ITS QUICK RISE

Written by: Craig Handel

The Griffin family had always supported higher education. And sports.

Ben Hill Griffin III, the Florida citrus businessman who was president and chairman of the board of Alico, Inc. from 1990-2004, carried the torch from his father Ben Hill Jr. in helping Florida Gulf Coast University get started.

And with the Griffins planting big seeds, FGCU not only has grown as an institution but as an athletics’ powerhouse. Alico Arena, helped by Griffin’s $5 million donation, is home to the highly successful women’s and men’s basketball programs. Under the guidance of Karl Smesko, the women made the NCAA Tournament for the ninth time in 12 years of eligibility. The Eagles (33-4) beat Washington State 74-63 in March in the first round to advance to the round of 32 for the fourth time in school history. They’ve won approximately 85% of their games, making them the winningest program in Division I history, ahead of such storied stalwarts Tennessee and the University of Connecticut.

Over the past 12 years, only FGCU, UConn and Baylor have won at least 25 games; and only the Eagles and defending national champion South Carolina have at least 30 victories in six of the last nine years.

A big reason is the long ball. FGCU has led the nation in 3-pointers the past three years and four of the last five. FGCU finished with 425 3-pointers this season – just six 3s behind their own all-time record of 431 in 2017-18.

The men’s program has had 10, 20-win seasons in the last two decades, including the magical run of 2012-13 when FGCU beat Georgetown and San Diego State on the way to reaching the Sweet 16. The Eagles became the first No. 15 seed ever to win two games in the NCAA Tournament. And now the Eagles have begun a new chapter under coach Pat Chambers.

FGCU and Chambers made a statement of sorts in his first game leading the Green & Blue. They went to Los Angeles and beat USC and Andy Enfield, the man who coached FGCU to

that Sweet 16 appearance. “I think it was probably more for the players and the team,” Chambers says. “Our mindset is to continue to get better and be the best team by the end of the year.

“It’s great for our fans, for the families and the alumni to beat a Pac-12 team. But for me, it’s how we learn and grow and get better.”

The fifth coach in Eagles’ history, Chambers has been a head coach at Boston University (2009-11) and Penn State (2011-20) before coming to Southwest Florida. He also had been an assistant at Villanova (2004-09), where he helped the Wildcats reach a Final Four in 2009, two Elite Eights and three Sweet 16s.

After the victory over USC, Chambers and the Eagles won three games in three days to take the championship in the Gulf Coast Showcase in Fort Myers. “We’re definitely building positive habits,” Chambers says. “We gotta have the mindset of improving 1 percent each day. Stack those days up.”

As much as the wins helped FGCU’s development, Chambers also says the team learned from early losses, two of which came by more than 30 points. Those losses came to Tennessee and Florida Atlantic, which played in this year’s Sweet 16.

“Getting drilled is a humbling experience. It taught us how to bounce back and handle success,” said Chambers, whose team finished 17-15.

Chambers takes a lot of pride in his Catholic faith, which he shared with a men’s ministry called Faith & Ale, which has chapters in Naples, Fort Myers and Tampa Bay.

Shortly after Hurricane Ian hit Southwest Florida, Chambers applauded the organization for still having the event. “This is not the time to retreat. It’s a time to come together, band together and help each other out. There are people who don’t have roofs. They need food and water and power. Where are they going to live?”

Chambers then shared his five pillars of faith — accountability, faith, humility, gratitude and passion.

ACCOUNTABILITY — Do what you say you’re going to do.

FAITH — Faith in the church and the importance of loving and caring.

PASSION — Have passion in what you’re doing for Christ, your family and your faith.

HUMILITY — Serving with humbleness to your neighbors, paying it forward.

GRATITUDE — Being grateful to being alive and sharing your life together.

Clockwise from top photo: Pat Chambers took his team to Los Angeles and beat USC and Andy Enfield, the man who coached FGCU to that Sweet 16 appearance. The W. Bernard and Elaine Lester Athletics Administrative Complex is named after the former president of Alico, Inc. FGCU women's basketball team celebration. FGCU women’s basketball coach Karl Smesko has guided the Eagles to the NCAA Tournament nine times. Andy Enfield led FGCU, nicknamed Dunk City, to the Sweet 16 in 2013.

Pat Chambers Andy Enfield

Karl Smesko

Bernie Lester

GRIFFIN FAMILY

While Ben Hill Griffin’s name is on the University of Florida football stadium, the family has supported colleges and universities around the state.

Ben Hill Griffin Jr. died in 1990 — a year before FGCU was founded — but Ben Hill III initially donated 760 acres to get the campus built. “FGCU officials asked for about 350 acres at a ‘reasonable price,’” says Dr. W. Bernard Lester, who worked alongside Griffin and his father for many years at Alico, Inc. “What they received was 1,000 acres for zero price. “What Ben Hill Griffin asked for was that it be named as a regional university and that it fit the needs of the community.”

From becoming a Division I school in athletics to its enrollment, FGCU has approximately 16,000 students, to how quickly some university programs became accredited, Lester says he and Griffin were amazed how fast the school grew. “You’d have to ac-

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knowledge the school has exceeded what we could’ve imagined. At an awards event, it startled everyone that our winning percentage ranked as one of the top athletics’ programs in the nation, which didn’t sponsor football.”

And when the Eagles reached the Sweet 16 where they played Florida, Lester and Griffin had a few chats. “We stayed as neutral as we could,” Lester says. “It was fun to watch. We looked at the brackets when they first came out and said, ‘If FGCU could prevail in the first two games, the third game would be against the Gators if they won.’”

Mr. Griffin died in 2020. Lester and wife Elaine have remained season ticket holders. “It’s been a great experience being involved in a program like Florida Gulf Coast,” he says. “You don’t get many chances to grow something from the beginning.” FCM

Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida, fgcu.edu Alico, Inc., Fort Myers, Florida, alicoinc.com

Ben Hill Griffin

FLORIDA’S GOETHE STATE FOREST

PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY!

Written by: Kym Rouse Holzwart

For more than 80 years, the Florida Forest Service has managed our spectacular state forests. Currently, there are 38 state forests and one ranch totaling over 1 million acres.

The mission of the FFS is to protect, maintain and restore the biological diversity of state forest lands through sustainable land management practices, while at the same time integrating public use and providing for Florida’s future natural resource needs.

Horse trails are available at more than 30 state forest and ranch lands and are the perfect way to explore Florida’s amazing natural beauty.

This article focuses on Goethe State Forest, named for J.T. Goethe, from who most of the land was purchased in 1992.

The majority of this approximately 55,000-acre state forest is between the Brooksville Ridge and Gulf of Mexico in southeastern Levy County. The Watermelon Pond Unit is north of the main tract on both sides of the Levy/Alachua County line. Goethe State Forest is managed for ecological restoration, wildlife habitat, timber production and outdoor recreation. While there are almost 20 distinct natural communities and numerous streams flowing through the property, Goethe State Forest is dominated by cypress swamps and longleaf

pine flatwoods. There is a large tract of contiguous hydric hammock, as well as some scattered old-growth cypress. Prescribed burning is one of the tools used to manage the lands since many of the natural communities, wildlife and plants depend on fire for their survival.

Equestrians can thank Helen Koehler for the amazing horse trail system at Goethe State Forest. A passionate equestrian trail advocate, she has marked over 100 miles of trails in the forest. Goethe State Forest is a favorite for endurance riders; numerous endurance rides are held in the forest each season and many endurance riders live adjacent to or near the state forest. The Goethe Benefit Challenge Endurance Ride, which has been held for more than 25 years and raises money for the forest and Operation Outdoor Freedom, was still hosted at Helen’s farm as of 2022. Because of the many miles of two-track trails and gravel roads suitable for carts, carriages and wagons, Goethe State Forest is also a favorite destination for drivers.

There are five equestrian trailheads: Tidewater, Apex, Black Prong, Watermelon Pond East Bailey and Watermelon Pond North. Almost 60 miles of horse trails can be accessed from the Tidewater trailhead, while more than 40 miles of trails are accessible from both the Apex and Black Prong trailheads. About 5 miles of trail can be ridden from the Watermelon

THE MAJORITY OF THIS APPROXIMATELY 55,000-ACRE STATE FOREST IS BETWEEN THE BROOKSVILLE RIDGE AND GULF OF MEXICO IN SOUTHEASTERN LEVY COUNTY.

The almost 55,000-acre Goethe State Forest offers outstanding horseback riding through many of Florida’s spectacular natural habitats.

An equestrian lovers dream. There are numerous private facilities adjacent to Goethe State Forest. Examples include Goethe Trailhead Campground, near the Apex trailhead, and the luxurious Black Prong Equestrian Village near the Black Prong trailhead.

EQUESTRIANS CAN THANK HELEN KOEHLER FOR THE AMAZING HORSE TRAIL SYSTEM AT GOETHE STATE FOREST.

Pond East Bailey trailhead, and a 7-mile horse trail is accessible from the Watermelon Pond North trailhead.

Primitive equestrian camping is available at the Tidewater, Black Prong and Watermelon Pond North trailheads. There are numerous private facilities adjacent to Goethe State Forest. Examples include Goethe Trailhead Campground, near the Apex trailhead, and the luxurious Black Prong

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Florida State Forest and Goethe State Forest details: fdacs.gov

Black Prong Equestrian Village, Bronson, Florida, blackprong.com, 352-486-1234

Goethe Trailhead Campground, Dunnellon, Florida, ocalatrailsrvcamping.com, 352-322-0723

Equestrian Village near the Black Prong trailhead. In addition to luxury accommodations for you and your horse, Black Prong Equestrian Village hosts a variety of social events and equestrian competitions.

Plan your visit to Goethe State Forest. Find out the schedule of the various hunting seasons, as well as where and when controlled burns or logging activities will take place. During the rainy season and after heavy rains, many of the horse trails can be very muddy or pass through deep water. Portions of many of the horse trails also include gravel roads.

Sign up for the FFS’s Trailtrotter Program to get credit for horseback riding in our awesome state forests. After you have ridden and logged eight trails on the Trailtrotter’s Trail list in a minimum of four state forests, you can receive an awesome patch and certificate acknowledging your achievement.

Once you become a Trailtrotter, you can become a Trailsaddler after you ride and record 16 trails, and a Trailwrangler after you ride and record a total of 24 trails from the list. FCM

LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF BLACK PRONG EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE; OTHER PHOTOS THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY ANGELA NORTON

More than 150 miles of horse trails can be accessed from the five equestrian trailheads.

Goethe State Forest is a favorite for drivers because of the miles of two-track trails and gravel roads.

MARIJUANA GOES MAINSTREAM

DISPENSING CAREERS AT FLORIDA CAMPUS

Written by: Craig Handel

Keelin Hoffman came to Florida Gulf Coast University planning to major in finance.

But she also felt she had the type of personality where “I could like just about anything if put in that position. I can go with the flow,” she says.

Discovering she could take classes in cannabis as part of an integrated studies degree, Hoffman changed her major. Besides taking courses in meditation, yoga and happiness — yes, happiness — she took the eight offerings in cannabis. “It’s not like we’re all smoking weed in a circle,” she says. “These are real businesses with real money backing them. People were spending their life savings to get into these businesses.

“But the class that got me the most interested was the Cannabusiness class. There was a lot to learn and it was really interesting.”

Taught by Dr. Fritz Roka, director of FGCU’s Center for Agribusiness, the course invited guest speakers familiar with medical cannabis and agricultural hemp. Hoffman met people running grow houses, hemp houses and managing dispensaries, as well as business people knowledgeable about financial accounting, banking and real-estate issues unique to cannabis.

Now, Hoffman is in the business. For almost three years she has been a general manager for a Trulieve dispensary in Tampa. Trulieve in Florida is the leading provider in medical cannabis and CBD products. Hoffman’s Tampa dispensary is one of 125 Trulieve dispensaries in Florida. More are on the way. Almost five years ago FGCU became the first state university to offer an undergraduate studies cannabis course in Florida. When Sam Walch proposed teaching a course about cannabis in the fall of 2018, Dr. Martha Rosenthal wanted in. Among her many academic achievements, she earned a master's degree in neuropharmacology from Brown University. She also is the author of textbooks, including “Drugs: Mind, Body, and Society.”

It is also the name of a course she teaches.

Rosenthal has been honored to receive the Teacher of the Year award at the University of Florida and at FGCU. “I’ve been studying drugs for 30 years,” she says. “There’s a lot of research going on. One is on anxiety and depression. Chemists are looking at heavy metals in CBD. Nationwide, some patients are getting off opioids and getting on

Keelin Hoffman took Dr. Fritz Roka's Cannabusinss class. For almost three years she has been the general manager for a Trulieve dispensary in Tampa.

Keelin Hoffman

Dr. Fritz Roka

Before FGCU’s first cannabis course began—it reached capacity in less than 24 hours—dispensaries wanted to hire FGCU students, Rosenthal says. “It’s still the fastest-growing industry in the country.”

Sam Walch proposed teaching a course about cannabis in the fall of 2018, Dr. Martha Rosenthal wanted in.

Dr. Martha Rosenthal

Sam Walch

FLORIDA HARVEST

medical cannabis. There’s a lot of drugs with worse side effects than medical cannabis.”

Rosenthal also teaches about the endocannabinoid system, or ECS, which is a neuromodulator like serotonin and dopamine. According to a paper written in Harvard Health, the endocannabinoid system regulates and controls many of our most critical bodily functions such as learning and memory, emotional processing, sleep, temperature control, pain control, inflammatory and immune responses, and eating.

The ECS is currently at the center of renewed international research and drug development. “Our bodies kind of make it, like our bodies make endorphins, which is a natural form of morphine,” Rosenthal says.

Before FGCU’s first cannabis course began — it reached capacity in less than 24 hours — dispensaries wanted to hire FGCU students, Rosenthal says. “It’s still the fastest-growing industry in the country.”

The eight FGCU courses include:

• Cannabis and its impact

• Drugs: Mind, Body and Society

• Marijuana Law

• The Horticulture and Botany of Cannabis

• Cannabusiness

• Medical Cannabis

• Weed Culture

• The Chemistry of Medicinal Plants

There’s also a Cannabis Professional Online Certificate Program at FGCU, an intensive four-week workshop to increase the understanding of cannabis and its effects, the cannabis industry, and the environment in which it operates. “I learned how the cannabis plant affects the body and the brain,” Hoffman says. “I also took a course in horticulture and botany, which gave a good basis of information.” FCM

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Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida, fgcu.edu

ECHO GLOBAL FARM

CREATING HOPE, FIGHTING HUNGER

Written by: Bill LaPlante

*10,000-plus free seed packets of underutilized food plants. *Many countries each month access the website— echocommunity.org—for resources to improve agricultural development and gospel education.

*680 new issues of 20 diverse agricultural resources added to website annually.

These and other facts are tragically unnerving and true. But what can I do, you ask yourself?

Several hundred of your Florida neighbors and caring people around America, including college students and recent graduates turned volunteer interns, are working with family farmers in East and West Africa and Thailand to create hope against hunger. Sounds nice, but what does it mean? How does it help people striving to feed their families?

For nearly 35 years a faith-based nonprofit in North Fort Myers, Florida, had worked with modest scale farmers to provide them training, information and seeds to boost crop yields and reduce hunger. With an estimated 1 in 9 people chronically hungry, nearly 70% depend on small-scale farming to sustain themselves.

Specifically, ECHO, or Educational Concerns for Haiti Organization, and its volunteers in 2022 worked worldwide to deliver:

*8,000-plus people in Florida, West and East Africa and Asia trained this year in sustainable agricultural methods and biblical themes.

*9,000 people visited ECHO Florida to learn, be inspired and share with their community.

Intern Karuna Taylor was one of them, saying that: “The ECHO internship is a great example of empowerment as it trains us as agriculture professionals while building us up as Christians.”

Two 90-minute tours packed with information about ECHO and its worldwide efforts even have tips on your own Florida garden. One is a guided walking trip through Asian, African and Latin American style farm homesteads learning innovative technologies to feed the family.

The ECHO perspective is genuinely innovative, given that 70% of small farmers have sloping topography that is tough to plant — erosion is a never-ending battle.

ECHO designers crafted one of the highest elevations in Lee County, at just under 50 feet, to develop erosion con-

* 180 million children worldwide show signs of malnutrition

* Every 12 seconds a child somewhere on earth dies from hunger

The ECHO perspective is genuinely innovative, given that 70% of small farmers have sloping topography that is tough to plant — erosion is a never-ending battle.

Where ECHO donations come from: 80% individuals, 7% foundations, 5% churches, the rest in legacy and business/civic club gifts.

FLORIDA HARVEST

trol techniques for sharing with their worldwide affiliates and fellow farmers.

An intern from a college in western Massachusetts’ Berkshire Hills was working at the base of the mini mountain the day we visited. Her task this slightly overcast Friday afternoon, hoe in hand, was to neaten up the small plot of soil at the base of the incline which had days earlier been cleaned of vegetation by the farm’s hogs.

All this while the pigs were surrounded by solar-powered electric fencing, not unlike the wire which encourages your pet pooch to stay close to your backyard. Now that’s ag innovation!

Getting back to my tour, riding the ECHO golf-cart tram through the 50-acre site I realize how fortunate we are to have the highly knowledgeable and personable Dennis as our Master of Innovative Agriculture training.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Dennis, like many in Florida, had traded his snow shovel for keys to the golf cart. How did he attain the font of plant-based knowledge he now gladly shares with ECHO visitors on daily sojourns of science? “Years of reading and research, then more reading and writing, all about plants and people,” he says.

The man knows his stuff and generously shares it, with a happy heart. You can just tell he loves what he’s doing, helping and informing others, sharing his smarts and his

faith. He considers the visitors on his little electric train to be friends, if just for a few hours. He hopes they will share knowledge with others, as he’s done for decades.

Who and what pays the bills for this worldwide global outreach of “Growing hope from the ground up,” as the verdant mural on the main building proclaims? Dennis shares again, this time at the conclusion of our journey to improved farming methods around the world as we’re about to leave the two-car tram pulled by the aged golf cart.

He directs our attention to a sign asking: “Do You See What’s Possible?” The sign continues: “Join ECHO. Make a $10 difference! Reduce hunger and improve lives worldwide. Donate now!” Where ECHO donations come from: 80% individuals, 7% foundations, 5% churches, the rest in legacy and business/ civic club gifts.

Where the money goes: 84% program services, 9% management, 7% fundraising. FCM

ROUNDUP

ECHO Global Farm, 17391 Durrance Road, North Fort Myers, Florida 239-543-3246, echonet.org, echocommunity.org

It all started with Ozzie and Harriet in 2012. They touched so many hearts from all-around the world. We can only hope they were reunited at the Rainbow Bridge.

LEGEND OF Ozzie & Harriet

SOAP OPERA ON SWFL EAGLE CAM

WRITTEN BY: BILL LAPLANTE

IT STARTED IN A NORTH FORT MYERS

HORSE PASTURE. The year was 2012. Some 190 million online visitors on the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam have since viewed the everyday drama of eagle living, the raising of little eagles, fighting with intruders, the cooperation and their diet, their nest home— Hurricane Ian forced a quick rebuild—erected by parent birds just off Bayshore Road.

The sometimes amazing, sometimes violent drama has streamed live from atop a Southern yellow pine in an open field. The nest and the resting birds on nearby branches are clearly visible. This living history of animal ancestry, not unlike a live soap opera, is possible with a tree camera provided by the Pritchett family of North Fort Myers.

Angling into the nest, the camera shows us what the symbol of freedom, the American bald eagle, endures as an apex predator—surviving, even the simple tasks of mundane life.

Drama … you bet!

Life, death, destruction, resurgence, care and feeding young eaglets had all been chronicled live and moment to moment in the sparse branches seven stories up. We watch the sometimes-crazy drama on our screens. Others watch through a camera lens or binoculars along the fence line off Bayshore Road.

The drama began when Ginnie Pritchett McSpadden and family (her brother and her dad, Richard Pritchett, are Realtors and Lee County, Florida, businesspeople) walked through the

boarding horse pasture one day and saw two folks standing in the field taking photos of what appeared as a vacant tree.

Closer perusal produced a sight right out of 1960s TV show, Mutual of Omaha's “Wild Kingdom.” Two American bald eagles had built a nest 1some three feet round of twigs and vegetation gathered from around the flat fields on the Pritchett property. This would become home to a series of nearly two dozen (as of this writing) hatchlings, each surviving three months of rain and heat, cool days and family theater before testing their wings and starting their own lives.

Ginnie says that “we started out with 10 (eagle-cam) viewers, all family members, then a hundred, thousands, hundreds of thousands and totaling 190 million.”

This tableau of daily eagle life and death streams worldwide. Viewers had seen eggs hatch, eaglets being fed by momma Harriet and their daddies, first Ozzie, then his younger successor M-15. Seems the younger male pushed aging Oz from the nest one evening in what can most accurately be called survival of the fittest.

Hello, Harriet?!

Then one day the grand dame of eagle cam, as the world has come to know this daily dishing of aerial antics, was last seen vocalizing after intruders or possibly went shopping, presumably for food to feed her two latest hatchlings. Harriet had never been gone more than six hours, Ginnie McSpadden says. She was not seen again.

Top photo: Harriet tucks her head into M-15's chest. Bottom photo: Harriet watches as her mate M-15 brings a snook into the nest for the family.

Yes, people know and care about what happens next. One afternoon during a session at my clinic miles from the nest folks overheard me discussing this story. Several wanted to know, in clearly concerned tones, “where is she, where’s Harriett? How are the two hatchlings doing?”

At nearly 30 years old, like 90-plus in human years, one might imagine, the matriarch of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam had vanished. A younger female had been approaching the nest in a matronly manner. Rogue-23-3 they call her, she is likely not a mother but displays the instincts of one, eagle experts insist.

Poppa M-15 had been playing mom and dad to the two eaglets in Harriett’s absence, now measured in months. The wee ones were mere weeks from their first flight, as the cycle of life continued.

Top photo: Harriet with her eaglets E-21 and E-22 right before she went missing. Inset photo: Rouge-23-3. Bottom photo: Queen Harriet watches over her kingdom.

Once Harriet was gone, M-15 did his best protecting the young from intruders. At first he was scared to leave eaglets alone. He would hunt right around the nest to make sure he could defend the eaglets. The three middle photos show how much the eaglets have grown over the months to the point of getting ready to fledge the nest.

The sometimes amazing, sometimes violent drama has streamed live from atop a Southern yellow pine in an open field.

Harriet

Harriet

M-15

Harriet was truly an iconic Southwest Florida Eagle. People from around the world left messages of hope and sorrows on the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, Meta page. She will be forever missed.

‘We miss you, Harriet’

Ginnie Pritchett McSpadden, the mother of two young children with her husband David, spends 20 hours weekly keeping SWFL Eagle Cam up and running. She’s also written a couple of children’s books, including “Harriet’s Next Adventure.”

Harriet, you were the perfect mom

mate. If I never see you again, I will remember you in my heart. I had such high hopes that you would return. You would be so proud of the role M15 has taken to take care of your little ones. Fly high and free wherever you are!

—Brenda Myers

Which might be foreshadowing for real-life events in the field which holds the nesting tree for M-15 without the family matriarch, Harriet.

Several days after Harriet’s disappearance a woman in a Philadelphia Eagles football jacket approached the wooden fence surrounding the pasture and tacked a home sign on it — “We miss you, Harriet,” it read.

Ginnie Pritchett McSpadden assesses Harriet’s situation practically: “The likelihood of her returning is slim. We have to believe she is no longer with us.” FCM

Harriet, you will be loved and missed forever. You were such a wonderful mate and a mother to all your babies. You taught M15 well, and he has done such a magnificent job of raising your babies. I know he misses you. Forever in our hearts, fly high and free with Ozzie watch over your babies and M15.

—Nancy Baumer

Miss you are beloved Harriet you are now flying high over the rainbow with Ozzie. I will never forget you. You gave me hope through my sad days and you gave me strength through my happiness days. Love you so much.

—Sommer Benveniste

It’s been exactly one month since the last sighting of our beloved Harriet. While we may never know her final resting place; her legacy will continue to grow as we cherish the beautiful moments observed on the cameras and via ground photos over the past 12+ years. We love you Harriet! Forever in our Hearts, Flying High & Free. —Southwest Florida Eagle Cam

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA EAGLE CAM swfleaglecam.com, dickpritchettrealestate.com Eagle-cam swag, zazzle.com/store/swfleaglecam

and

Desiree continues her tradition of photo graphing the eagles on the weekend as she once did with her late husband Gustavo. A special memory she treasures.

Meet Desir ee Deliz

HER CAMERA CHRONICLES FAMOUS EAGLES

WRITTEN BY: BILL LAPLANTE

She failed her first photography course in high school because she couldn’t develop her own film, the stuff we used to take to the lab to get prints.

These days she’s got more than 10,000 fans hanging on for the next digital photo of her subjects — the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam eagles, their offspring and the wildlife in and around their territory in North Fort Myers.

Self-taught photographer Desiree Deliz chronicles M-15 and his current nestmate, Rogue 23-3, and the two eaglets waiting to take their first flights out of the slash pine in a horse pasture. She joins 190 million worldwide viewers of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam who share her fascination with the moment-to-moment happenings of the American eagle family which first took the online spotlight in December 2012. Followers in 190 countries have since watched the eagles cycling through life.

Many of those followers had become friends of Desiree, who regularly drives two hours from Hialeah to capture wildlife images on her Canon digital camera. “The nest is on many international bucket lists of things to see and visit,” she says. “I’ve been there hundreds of times, maybe a thousand.”

Gustavo, her husband, and Desiree became nurses. “I was an RN (registered nurse) when he was a welder in the heat of Miami. He looked at my job inside in air-conditioning and said, ‘that’s for me,’ then he became an LPN (licensed practical nurse).”

The marriage of 26 years had produced two talented daughters, Maritza, also

an RN in Florida, and Marina, pursuing her dream of directing Hollywood movies after finishing her Ivy League undergraduate degree.

Desiree says: “Gustavo was visiting south Florida from his home in Columbia when his sisters dragged him to a dance club for the evening. He didn’t even want to go, though when I saw him, I knew he was ‘the one’ for me.”

Married after a year of dating, Desiree says, “he was a good person. He even built our house, the one I still live in … I’ll never sell it!”

Desiree Deliz says of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam celebrities and her drive to film them in 2013, “the madness — no, not madness, the magic began.”

Desiree Deliz fell for the eagles and wanted to tell their stories in pictures. Some folks do Vegas or a surf-splashed oasis for a 25th anniversary. Instead, Gustavo took his love and best friend to the middle of a horse pasture in North Fort Myers. He knew she wanted to photograph Ozzie and Harriet and he wanted to make her happy for their special day.

She still relives the perfection of that day near the McDonald’s (where her husband enjoyed an anniversary Big Mac solo) while she snapped away at the eagle family on Bayshore Road.

Sadly, Gustavo Enrique Cepeda died in a 2014 motorcycle accident in Broward County. But he lives forever in Desiree’s heart.

As do Ozzie and Harriet … and now M-15 and Rogue 23-3. And a string of eagles soaring over southwest Florida skies!

HENDERSONVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA The Mountains Came Calling

WRITTEN BY: DAVE KELLY

The mountains of western North Carolina came calling. And spring was the perfect time to answer their summons.

But with so many highland towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains to choose from, is there one that stands above the rest that can call us away from Florida’s impending summer heat to enjoy the fresh cool Appalachian air?

Yes, Hendersonville does.

Our pre-trip research showed that this picturesque city features challenging scenic hiking trails, outdoor family activities and rustic cozy accommodations. Throw in an eclectic mix of wineries, breweries, cideries and dining options, and we could not resist a trip to check it out.

The city sits at an altitude of about 2,300 feet and settles in between dozens of surrounding peaks that check in at

over 5,000. Its accessible downtown area is home to dozens of specialty restaurants, intimate pubs, unique shops and assorted museums and galleries.

START WITH A HOME BASE

So where is the best place to stay to absorb the Hendersonville vibe? Our exploration led us to Echo Mountain Inn, a 125-year-old building with luxury, peace and quiet and a bit of local history.

Built by Jacksonville’s John and Jessie Patterson in 1896 as a private summer home, it was converted in the 1930s into “Happiness,” a camp for teenage girls where the original pool was created from an abandoned reservoir.

New owners soon gave it the Echo Mountain Inn moniker, with each ensuing proprietor improving the building and property while keeping that warm North Carolina feel.

Our pre-trip research showed that this picturesque city features challenging scenic hiking trails, outdoor family activities and rustic cozy accommodations.

PHOTO BY JARED KAY

In fact, rooms in the 1930s wing of the property still have wood-burning fireplaces for winter visitors.

The huge common area features a sun porch, oversized comfy couches and an enormous fireplace for a relaxing atmosphere with books, games and coffee. The dining room, which has a specialty breakfast included in your room rate, allows for stunning views of the surrounding mountain scenery.

The Bonnema family purchased Echo Mountain Inn in 2019 and have worked hard to continue the renovations on its 28 guest rooms while keeping the classic look and feel of the property. The family is hands on, providing helpful advice and input as to what to do and where to go in the area. Their attention to detail and passion for the property make it the perfect place for a romantic getaway, a family vacation or a corporate retreat.

CALLED TO HENDERSONVILLE

We were called to Hendersonville largely because of the mountains, so after checking in at Echo Mountain Inn we headed back out the door and right down the street to the very top of Echo Mountain, where we found the famous Jump Off Rock.

Native American legend has it that over 300 years ago a young Cherokee maiden got word that her partner and chief had been killed in battle, so she climbed to the top of the mountain and jumped. On full moon nights, legend has it that you can still see her haunting the precipice at Jump Off Rock.

The climb to Jump Off Rock rewarded our efforts with breathtaking panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountain and Pisgah Mountain ranges, with an onsite map that notes each impressive peak that is visible. The park also has a shaded trail system with comfortable to moderate hikes leaving from and returning to Jump Off Rock. This city park area is often utilized for year-round weddings and family outings. Looking to increase the challenge of our hikes, we headed out the next day to DuPont State Recreational Forest and the trails that head up to the 125-foot tall Triple Falls waterfall. Less than 15 miles from the Echo Mountain Inn, this lush park features trails leading to three distinct waterfall areas. We chose to test our Florida flatlander legs by making the longer 2.2-mile round trip, allowing us to see the glorious High Falls along the way. Not content with that, we took the staircase path down to the flat rock plateau between the falls and visited picturesque Hooker Falls. It was great to see that many hikers had brought their dogs for the trek. Later in the week we tackled the challenging Bearwallow Mountain Trail. At 4,232 feet, Bearwallow Mountain reaches the highest elevation in Henderson County, so we were excited to test our stamina and ability. A winding 2.1-mile loop trail considered by fellow hikers to be demanding but not overly difficult takes you snaking up the mountainside through the verdant landscape.

This picturesque, vibrant and pedestrian friendly city has a flourishing culinary scene interspersed with boutique and regional retail, distinctive museums and traditional pubs.

From bottom to top and back it takes the average hiker about 90 minutes to complete, and wow is it worth it. Sunset views from the plateau at the mountain’s summit were stunning. And the sense of accomplishment knowing that we tackled and mastered the area’s highest peak stayed with us throughout the trip and beyond.

The trail is maintained by volunteers like the Carolina Mountain Club Friday Crew, so there is no charge to use it. And the route is open to visitors and hikers year-round.

All that exercise and activity led us to downtown Hendersonville regularly to satisfy our hunger and quench our thirst. This picturesque, vibrant and pedestrian friendly city has a flourishing culinary scene interspersed with boutique and regional retail, distinctive museums and traditional pubs. Over the course of our trip, we visited many of these locations to get the feel of this lively city.

MAST GENERAL STORE

Many come with histories and information about their popularity and their place in the growth of electronic entertainment. Favorites such as Space Invaders, Pac-Man and Pinball Wizard in a theater styled museum with food, drink and snacks.

SHINE HENDERSONVILLE

Owners Bobby and Layla Rogers spent over a decade developing Hendersonville’s most unique restaurant concept. All effort was made to re-utilize the original brick, stone and heart-pine wood while creating the new restaurant. A new rooftop and historic storefront were installed and Shine opened in 2019 with an eclectic menu that is creative and innovative yet nods to Southern flavors, all fresh and made in-house. Our meal and the service were delightful.

MEZZALUNA BRICK OVEN TAP HOUSE

OUR LIST

This regional, outdoor themed general store has western North Carolina roots dating to the 1850s. The Hendersonville location, one of a dozen or so in the South, features specialty clothing, outdoor gear, home and hearth accessories and old-fashioned candy sold by the pound from barrels.

APPALACHIAN PINBALL MUSEUM

Founded by arcade enthusiast John French, this museum is home to over 80 pinball and electronic games dating back to the 1950's.

Located in downtown Hendersonville, Mezzaluna successfully combines Italian dining and gourmet pizzas baked in Mugnaini wood-fired ovens. There is an extensive wine list and over 50 taps for local and regional craft beers. A sweeping mural of Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night” overlooks the open kitchen, so we enjoyed our amazing pizza and calzones under the stars that night.

HENDOUGH CHICKEN & DONUTS

Tucked just on the outskirts of downtown, HenDough Chicken & Donuts features the most unique menu in Hendersonville. Opened by Biltmore Estate chefs Paul and Sarah Klaassen, HenDough combines two of life’s most famous comfort foods. During Covid, the restaurant’s business flourished, as owners and staff worked hard to

PHOTO BY TODD BUSH

The Echo Mountain Inn is nestled in the cozy North Carolina mountains.

provide food and help to the Hendersonville community. They are proud to provide the best made-from-scratch fried chicken biscuit on the planet while supporting local charities, schools and farmers.

BOOK AND BEE CAFÉ AND TEA

Nowhere in Hendersonville did we find a cozier spot to enjoy our time than the Book and Bee Café and Tea. Minutes from downtown, this distinctive destination features lunch and tea in an environment based on the love of literature. Each snug room holds only a couple of tables and is individually themed — we ate our lunch in the Tolkien/C.S. Lewis room, which was covered in books and quotes from the famous authors. We were pleasantly surprised to find that, although they highlight tea in their offerings, and in fact serve “high tea” regularly as a part of their menu, most folks make their way to the Book and Bee to simply enjoy dining and tea from their exceptional lunch menu.

WINE, CIDER … AND (LOTS OF) APPLES

In our time in Hendersonville we noticed a theme running through the bars, restaurants and attractions — there are apples everywhere. Apple cider mills dot the landscape, many with onsite destination activities. And not just basic non-alcoholic ciders are created, as most brewpubs and cideries make flavored hard ciders.

BOLD ROCK CIDER

Just outside of Hendersonville sits the Bold Rock Mills River Cidery. Together with its other locations throughout the South, Bold Rock is the nation’s largest craft cidery and produces flavored hard ciders sold in over a dozen states. The Mills River location opened in 2015 and is nestled on North Carolina’s fertile farmland.

On our visit we learned that hard cider is fermented and distilled, never brewed, and watched the entire process through huge windows in the main bar area above the

TOP PHOTO BY SAM DEAN; BOTTOM PHOTOS LEFT TO RIGHT: COURTESY OF MAST GENERAL STORE; BY CRAIG DISTL; BY TODD BUSH

We were called to Hendersonville largely because of the mountains.

Jump Off Rock (above) offers a 270-degree view of the mountains of North Carolina. Mast General Store, Appalachain Pinball Museum owner John French (pictured below) showcases one of over 80 machines onsite, Shine's fabulous rooftop offers breathtaking views of downtown Hendersonville.

Clockwise from top left: Mezzaluna Brick Oven and Tap House specializes in comfort Italian food, Hen Dough's donut selection is fresh-baked, a tasty Crisp Bold Rock Cider, flower fields look over Jeter Mountain Farms' 400plus acres, Point Lookout Mountain offers 30-mile panoramic views over its vineyards, and The Book & Bee features stunning tea settings.

production floor. We each sampled a flight of four hard cider offerings while learning that Bold Rock sources 100% of its apples from local orchards within 35 miles. Throw in a food truck, live entertainment and a dog-friendly attitude, and it was an enjoyable visit.

JETER MOUNTAIN FARM

A few miles outside of town and up a scenic mountain road lies Jeter Mountain Farm. A U-pick farm, cidery and entertainment destination, the property is owned by the Hunsader family, who brought 150 years of farming tradition from Florida, and consists of nearly 400 acres in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Hunsaders planted their first orchard trees in 2014 and have since graduated to growing peaches, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and pumpkins, as well as over 20 varieties of apples that can be picked by guests or used in the cider process. All fruits are on the U-pick program open from mid-July through October.

The scope of the farm is breathtaking. Tractor-pulled wagons take your family throughout the farm where you can hop off at the orchard of your choice and pick to your heart’s content, taking your prized fruits home. Visitors even enjoy wildflower fields, mazes and picnics on the scenic grounds. We eventually graduated to the Cider Barn, sipped a variety of Jeter Mountain Farm’s hard ciders while sampling their in-house smoked barbecue and listening to live music while the kids played on an indoor playground. They also feature a wedding and event center overlooking the orchards. Jeter Mountain Farm is a do-not-miss experience.

POINT LOOKOUT VINEYARDS

We traveled less than 10 miles from Hendersonville to visit scenic Point Lookout Mountain. Owners Mike and Sabrina Jackson visited this former dude ranch, fell in love with its 30-mile panoramic views and created Point Lookout Vineyards atop the southeast slope of the mountain.

Though the land was originally an apple orchard, their vision was to create a winery, planting and growing grapes appropriate to the area. Vines were planted in rows running north and south, allowing a warm morning sun and cool mountain breezes.

Soon after they opened World’s Edge Meadery, perfecting mead from a honey base and fermented fruits including local apples. Mead is one of the oldest alcoholic beverages, offering fermented sweet goodness in what the ancient Greeks called the “Nectar of the Gods.”

We participated in Point Lookout’s sampling program, where each of us chose up to six wines or meads. Staff helped us understand the subtle undertones of each varietal, allowing us to appreciate the flavors and nuances that separate each type.

Best of all we were able to do all of this during their “Sunset Sipping” event, held Wednesdays and Thursdays at sundown, while overlooking the vineyards. Their passion for wines and meads made us appreciate the company slogan — “Sharing wine, sharing life.”

The Hendersonville, North Carolina, experience was the whole package for travelers like us. The next time the mountains are calling, we know just where you should go. FCM

ROUNDUP

Echo Mountain Inn echomountaininn.com, 828-693-9626

DuPont State Recreational Forest dupontstaterecreationalforest.com, 828-877-6527

Mast General Store mastgeneralstore.com, 828-696-1883

Appalachian Pinball Museum appalachianpinballmuseum.com, 828-702-9277

Shine Hendersonville shinehvl.com, 828-692-0062

Mezzaluna Brick Oven Tap House mezzaluna-hendersonville.com, 828-697-6575

HenDough hendough.com, 828-595-2885

Book and Bee Café and Tea thebookandbee.com, 828-845-4242

Bold Rock Cider boldrock.com, 828-595-9940

Jeter Mountain Farm jetermountainfarm.com, 828-513-0404

Point Lookout Vineyards pointlookoutvineyards.com, 828-808-8923

OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BY SAM DEAN; BY KRISTINA RODRIGUEZ; BY SAM DEAN; COURTESY OF JETER MOUNTAIN FARMS; BY JARED KAY; BY VICTORIA CUMMINGS

The next time the mountains are calling, we know just where you should go.

FLORIDA CRACKER COOK SHACK

DELICIOUS TWIST ON FLORIDA SOUL FOOD

Written by: Dave Kelly

In the little central Florida town of Brooksville, the Hensley boys are at it again.

Ten years after the successful debut of their Florida Cracker Kitchen restaurant, Brooksville natives and brothers Blair and Ethan have created and opened the Florida Cracker Cook Shack.

Situated at the only intersection in the country where three U.S. highways — Routes 98, 41 and 50 — all meet up, it should come as no surprise that its quirky design and mouth-watering menu are as unique as its location.

Like its older sibling, the Florida Cracker Cook Shack takes its culinary inspiration from the term “cracker,” a colloquial name for the pioneers and cowboys that settled what is now Florida. The culture of these folks dates back some 200 years and refers to the sound of whips used while driving cattle.

These innovative families used the food and ingredients on the land around them, formulating recipes and cooking methods handed down through the generations.

With this approach in mind, Florida cracker traditions come alive at the Cook Shack.

Why the Cook Shack name? Throughout the years, hunting and fishing camps in Florida have traditionally featured cook shacks, where members congregated to eat and socialize with fellow campers.

Cook shacks often provided family meal portions, supplying enough of the main course and side dishes for everybody. Additionally, they also afforded places for cowboys to sit, unwind, socialize and tell tall tales about their hunts, their catches and of course the ones that “got away,” all while enjoying some good ol’ Florida soul food.

At the Cook Shack, you can enjoy some good ol' Florida soul food.

Throughout the years, hunting and fishing camps in Florida have traditionally featured cook shacks, where members congregated to eat and socialize with fellow campers.

In keeping with this spirit, the Florida Cracker Cook Shack features a full menu of Florida soul food.

What does that look like? How about chipped-pork platters or sandwiches slathered with your choice of over a halfdozen custom barbecue sauces?

Or spicy hot chicken sandwiches or tenders, each with their own mouth-watering traditional sides like dirty baked beans or homemade mac and cheese.

There is even the Cook Shack’s very own brisket Sloppy Joe, a southern twist on the classic made with loose brisket meat smoked in a house barbecue sauce and served on a sweet Hawaiian roll.

Round out your meal by indulging in a mac and cheese boat with gator sausage and some sweet tea, and you will understand the appeal, and deliciousness, of Florida soul food.

They also serve up local craft beer and a selection of cocktails, including infused shakes and spiked teas.

Additionally, in keeping with cook shack tradition, they also offer ready-to-go family meals that can feed up to 10 hungry people from a special menu.

The Hensley brothers have been busy over the past decade. There are now six Florida Cracker concepts in the state, as well as other unique aspects such as the Florida Cracker

Monkey Bar in Homosassa and the new Florida Cracker Fish Company in Citrus Park in north Tampa.

Add in tap rooms, shops and an event venue, and it’s evident that Floridians cannot get enough of the Florida Cracker tradition.

Try them soon and you will see why! FCM

ROUNDUP

We were photographing the endangered snail kites hunting snails. This adult male turned and banked to the left, giving me this beautiful angle and image. Palmetto’s William Steele captured this image on the Kissimmee River using a Canon EOS.

‘BEAUTIFUL ANGLE’

Photo by: William Steele

‘OUT WEST’

This photo is of my daughter riding her horse, Ellie. It represents what is like to live in western St. Lucie County. Amelia loves “out west” and this photo shows everything she loves about it … from the beautiful sunsets to being able to ride her horse every afternoon.  AJ Messina of Fort Pierce, Florida, caught this image on the family home using a Google Pixel 7.

‘CONTINUING TRADITIONS’

“

Sebastian Monroe Combee, 2 years old, helps pick some sweet Dancy tangerines for the family. He is the fifth generation on what once was the 30,000-acre John Weatherford Ranch in northwest Polk County, east of Hart Hammock. The tangerine tree is one of the few citrus fruit trees which has survived greening and is believed to have been planted in the early 1900s by the Bolden family, who were the original homesteaders.  Desiree Vaughn of Polk City, Florida, captured her image using a Samsung S10 phone.

‘FAVORITE PLACE’

Ilove going to my favorite place in my small town to watch and listen to the wildlife. I was able to watch this ibis and his reflection look for dinner while the sun started to set.  Bethany Respress of Fort Meade, Florida, used a Canon R for this image on Peace River.

Photo by: AJ Messina

Photo by: Bethany Respress

Photo by: Desiree Vaughn

‘RELAXING DAY’

Alexa was taking a break from the Florida sunshine by swinging on a hammock. She was trying to blow the biggest bubble with her bubblegum. On this day it was just a relaxing summer day in our backyard. But on the weekends she loves to explore all the beauty and adventure Florida has to offer with her parents and three brothers. Amanda Warren of Orange Park, Florida, used a Sony Alpha 7C to snap her image.

The Capt CJ was my favorite shrimp boat to shoot while watching one of the worldfamous Matlacha (Pine Island, Florida) sunsets. The Capt CJ always added so much more to photographs. Very sad to say that Hurricane Ian destroyed The Capt CJ as well as most of SWFL. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting the captain and owner of The Capt CJ. Mike Bigler and family have owned and operated The Capt CJ for many years in SWFL. Matlacha was a little fishing village to the locals and a beautiful vacation spot for everyone else. Donald Hazlett of Cape Coral, Florida, used a Canon 70D for this image.

‘SAD GOODBYE’

Photo by: Amanda Warren

Photo by: Donald Hazlett

‘COWBOY UP!’

This is Leon. While shooting his oneyear session, we decided to use his dad’s boots to capture the boots he will fill one day! This was taken on his parent’s ranch, Diamond S Ranch in Grand Ridge. I’ve been capturing Leon since he was a newborn and I always enjoy his beautiful smile and personality. He’s the cutest little cowboy and absolutely loves horses and he even helps with all the ranch stuff, as he is going on 3 now! Amy Justice Buie of Cottondale, Florida, used a Nikon D60 for her portrait in Grand Ridge, Florida.

‘BEST VIEWS’

Charles Springs is perhaps one of the more historically significant springs in north Florida. Rumored to have been a river crossing point by Spanish conquistadors in the 1700s, there was also a Spanish mission and later a family ran a ferry and trading outpost in the area. Ruben and Rebecca Charles operated the trading post and were some of the first folks to trade with the native Indians in the area in the early 1800s. Today, Charles Springs is a bit off the beaten trail, but it provides a nice tree canopied setting, a concreted boat ramp and one of the best views from the spring run into the Suwannee River you’ll find. There are also various walking trails and a picnic table overlooking the bank of the Suwannee River as well. Yesaira Rivera of Haines City used a Sony camera for this image.

Taken during the summer months at a boat ramp that was public access, my friend and I used a few different methods to get enough water movement to activate the bioluminescence of the organisms in the water. Ashley Head of Live Oak, Florida, used a Canon

EOS R to capture this image at Merritt Island, Florida.

FIREFLIES’

Photo by: Ashley Head

Photo by: Yesaira Rivera

Photo by: Amy Justice Buie

This photo shows how much passion and love my daughter Addison Roddenberry has for the livestock industry! This might not be a path that she chooses forever … and I’m okay with that! But in this moment — her being loving, kind and gentle with these creatures that God sends us to be shepherds for — is all a mother can ask for! Kayla Roddenberry of Hawthorne, Florida, used an iPhone 13 Pro Max for her portrait.

‘KIND AND GENTLE’

“

Photo by: Kayla Roddenberry

FGCU FISHING INVITATIONAL

SUPPORTS THE JESSE M. WOODYARD SCHOLARSHIP

Written by: Kaitlin Danks

The smell of salty sea air and the sound of waves lapping at your boat would be your Saturday morning on April 29.

Kick back with your friends in a new T-shirt, open a case of beer donated by Suncoast Beverages, and compete to win cash prizes sponsored by Fifth Third Bank.

After a day on the water and great fishing, you’ll be celebrated at the FGCU Water School during the awards ceremony and catered dinner and have the opportunity to bid on exclusive silent auction baskets.

Sounds interesting but it gets better as proceeds benefit a scholarship fund for Florida Gulf Coast University students

HONORING JESSE’S MEMORY

On March 11, 2014, Jesse Woodyard unexpectedly passed away and left behind his passion to advocate for our

southwest Florida environments. He was always out on the water, exploring, fishing and learning about the ecosystems that are so unique to our region.

To honor his memory, Florida Gulf Coast University will host its 10th Annual FGCU Fishing Invitational, where

This event is an opportunity for FGCU students and alumni to come together to celebrate each other in fellowship and fishing.

Jesse Woodyard

THIS EVENT WAS STARTED BY STUDENTS AT FGCU WHO FISHED WITH JESSE EVERY DAY.

proceeds benefit the Jesse M. Woodyard Scholarship Fund for Marine and Ecological Sciences. There’s a Captain’s Pickup Party that Friday evening.

A Woodyard family spokesperson says of the event: “Jesse was a beloved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle and friend. He will long be remembered for his sense of humor, his caring nature, fierce loyalties and his infectious smile. By keeping Jesse’s legacy alive through the FGCU Fishing

Invitational, his family hopes to remind every FGCU student to drink responsibly. We pray this annual event will provide an opportunity for FGCU students and alumni to come together to celebrate each other in fellowship and fishing. By doing so we will live out Jesse’s dream to help preserve the Florida environment on his behalf.”

This event was started by students at FGCU who fished with Jesse every day. It has grown into one of the largest signature

Left photo: Friends of Jesse Woodyard after a fun day on the water. Right photo: 2022 First Place Winner “Just Foush It”.

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FISH ON

events that the FGCU Alumni Association hosts each year. Supporting this event means you are supporting the future changemakers and educators graduating from FGCU who are looking to better our natural areas and waterways and educate others on how to coexist with nature.

Each year students, alumni, friends and family of Jesse — and supporters of conservation and environmental education — come together to remember who he was, what he stood for, raise money for a scholarship that is changing student lives.

And FISH!

Feel the sunshine on your face and the tug of a big catch on the end of your line this April. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to support students learning how to help our ecosystems.

Not sure you can fish but still want to help? Consider donating a silent auction item to be featured online April 24-29. It’s a great way to showcase your business and products.

Thinking something bigger? Sponsorships are available and can provide you with amazing perks to market your business to over 40,000 FGCU alumni.

Registration is now live. Boat entry for a team of two anglers is $250, with each additional angler at $75. There is a 50-boat limit.

Help the FGCU Alumni Association reach our goal of $30,000 for the 10th Annual Fishing Invitational. See you on the water! FCM

ROUNDUP

Registration link: fgcufishinginvitational.com

YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=R2PNViS-1s8/

WHEN AND WHERE:

Friday, April 28

3-6 p.m., Captain’s Pickup Party at Florida Gulf Coast University

6 p.m., Virtual Captain’s Party on Facebook Live

Saturday, April 29

7 a.m., Honor start 4 p.m., Last call for submissions

5 p.m., Awards reception at the Water School at Florida Gulf Coast University

General and Donation and Sponsorship Information:

Kaitlin Danks, Business Development Manager-FGCU 239-590-1016, kmdanks@fgcu.edu

BRANDING FLORIDA'S CATTLE HISTORY

NEW RESTAURANT PAYS TRIBUTE TO STATE'S AGRICULTURAL ROOTS

Written by: Jenna Dawson

The tradition of cattle branding is ages old, dating back to ancient times when livestock was first domesticated. It was used to distinguish between herds and to identify individual animals’ ranch affiliation and ownership. The practice of branding cattle became common in the American West during the 19th century, as ranchers needed a way to identify their livestock when it was commingled with other herds on open ranges. The practice became a crucial way to prevent theft and to ensure that each rancher could claim his own cattle.

Florida itself has been home to cattle ranching since the 16th century, when Ponce

de Leon brought Spanish livestock to the St. Augustine area. The first actual cattle ranch was established in the late 1700s, and the industry has since become an integral part of Florida's agricultural landscape.

So it is no surprise that the launch of the Florida Cracker Feed Lot in Webster Florida was not just another restaurant opening - it was a celebration of cattle branding’s local history and culture. The specialty eatery, located on the grounds of the Sumter County Farmers Market, paid tribute to the community’s roots at its pre-opening party by inviting local ranchers to burn their Florida cattle brands into the Feed Lot’s newly installed wooden breakfast bar. Livestock farmers from around the area came to leave their mark for all to see.

Florida Cracker Feed Lot in Webster, Florida, was not just another restaurant opening - it was a celebration of cattle branding’s local history and culture.

FLORIDA CRACKER FEED LOT CELEBRATES CATTLE BRANDING’S LOCAL HISTORY AND CULTURE.

“The Florida Cracker brand is excited to pay tribute to this integral part of the agriculture of our state” says Blair Hensley, who owns the new restaurant along with brother Ethan. “By showcasing so many individual brands, we proudly honor our local ranchers and bring their stories to our guests.”

Dozens of ranchers left their mark on the bar, including singer/songwriter and guitarist Howard Bellamy of the legendary Bellamy Brothers country music duo, who is a local cattleman himself.

By allowing these ranchers to leave a lasting impression with their cattle brands, the restaurant is creating a physical record of this story that future generations can appreciate and learn from. It is a reminder that the account of Florida's agricultural industry is not just one of hard work and

determination, but also of innovation and adaptation - one worth telling and preserving.

Look for a full description of the new Florida Cracker Feed Lot coming in a future issue of Florida Country Magazine. In the meantime, stop in for a bite and see how many cattle brands you can count!

FCM

Dozens of ranchers left their mark on the bar, including singer/ songwriter and guitarist Howard Bellamy of the legendary Bellamy Brothers country music duo, who is a local cattleman himself.

MARGARITAVILLE AT SEA

'CHANGES IN LATITUDES, CHANGES IN ATTITUDES'

Written by: Dave Kelly

Sometimes you simply need to get away. But a long flight on a jam-packed airplane or days of driving just to reach your destination is not what you had in mind.

Maybe your best bet is just a floating island vacation at sea!

Enter the new Margaritaville at Sea Paradise cruise liner. Her sailing concept is simple—a 3-day, 2-night “microvacation” where you chill out, indulge in delicious food and drink, take in a show or two and soak up the sun.

This 1,300-passenger, 14-deck beauty, formerly named Grand Classica and cruising for the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, had her inaugural voyage for the Margaritaville at Sea cruise line in May 2022.

And she has not looked back.

The schedule for the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise is uniquely simple. Passengers board for their trip from noon on Day 1, experience two days and nights of sailing and disembark early on Day 3.

Because of the ship’s non-stop scheduling, your departure can occur any day, allowing for great flexibility in scheduling early-week, late-week or weekend cruise times. It sounded like the perfect relaxing break that we needed.

SUITE DEALS

Part of this ship’s appeal is its centralized docking location in the smaller Port of Palm Beach, making embarkation less hectic than in most other Florida cruise line ports.

In fact, parking to board here was a breeze: you simply off-load luggage and passengers at the valet in front of the cruise terminal and head inside to check in while your car is safely parked on site.

The MVAS Paradise has the typical cruise cabin choices, but we decided to indulge on a Grand Terrace Suite, one of only ten, situated high up on Deck 10.

These cabins consist of two huge rooms, both with access to a curving balcony that overlooks the seascape from midship. Amazingly, the rates for these suites were less than what you might expect to pay for porthole rooms on other ships, and we could not have been happier with our choice.

The sweeping vistas of the harbor and wind in our hair as we left the port reminded us of why we chose to cruise with Margaritaville at Sea.

In addition to the impressive cabins, the MVAS Paradise offers up access to eight dining venues and five bars and lounges, many named after Jimmy Buffet’s song lyrics. Food at Fins Dining Room and the Port of Indecision Buffet is included in your ticket price.

For a small upcharge you can grab cheeseburgers like we did at the 5 O’clock Somewhere Bar & Grill, or dine at the JWB Prime Steakhouse, where you can feast on a high-end dinner or a champagne breakfast. A pizzeria and a coffee shop are also available for the perfect change of pace.

As with most cruises, there are available upgrades. We pre-purchased the Boat Drinks package, which included beer, specialty cocktails, wine and any cool concoction of our choosing. We also booked some additional upgrades,

Impressive cabins, spa time, relax by the pool or hit the Margaritaville Casino featuring card games, slots, roulette, a craps table, and more.

including the License to Chill package that included priority boarding, dinner packages, credits at the St. Somewhere spa, a private concierge and more.

Margaritaville at Sea has also recently partnered with New Yorkbased Tipsy Scoop, a fast growing company that offers cocktail-inspired, liquor-infused ice cream and other frozen treats. We especially enjoyed the Blue Margarita Sorbet, a refreshing blend of Margaritaville Spirits Silver Tequila, blue curaçao, fresh lime juice and salt. It was the perfect island treat for our trip.

GOOD, TROPICAL AND FUN

No cruise is complete without onsite entertainment … and our trip was no exception. The musical performance “Tales from Margaritaville: Jimmy’s Ship Show” was featured each night in the Oasis Room. Written and produced by Jimmy Buffett and acclaimed producer Frank Marshall, the routine showcased all that is good, tropical and fun about the Jimmy Buffet experience. The performers were passionate and the mood was light and melodic.

In fact, the show was so engaging that we even joined in on the fun during the show’s dance finale.

Rounding out the shipboard amenities is the Margaritaville Casino, which features new slot machines, up-to-the-minute sports betting and table-game favorites such as blackjack, craps and Texas Hold’em. Join the Player’s Club Loyalty Program and you’ll earn your way to free rewards and player benefits with every dollar played at the casino.

Although we did not see many children on the ship, they do offer up a Kid’s Club, which helps to entertain the young ones in three different age groups and schedules activities from 3 p.m. till midnight each day so you can relax or party while knowing that the kids are being taken care of.

Waking up on Day 2 we were docked at Grand Bahama Island. Although some folks remained on the ship and enjoyed some relaxation, most guests did disembark and partake in one or more of the many activities that the ship’s crew coordinated. You might consider Swimming With The Pigs, for instance, frolicking in the crystalline sea with the famous Bahamian swimming pigs.

There is also a Dolphin Swim, which includes diving and learning dolphin hand signals. There are even “Day at The Beach” trips to Viva Wyndham or Taino Beach, where your all-inclusive day allows you to soak up the sun by the pool or the beach at a gorgeous Bahamian resort.

If you are looking to extend your vacation, Margaritaville at Sea offers 4- and 6-night all-inclusive getaways. These invite you to combine the fun of your 2-night cruise with a luxurious resort stay in Grand Bahama.

You can turn your 3-day cruise into so much more.

The Margaritaville at Sea team also offers occasional special rate programs. They often feature full-rate discounts for active and veteran military, first responders, law enforcement officers and educators. They also include discounts for groups and weddings.

So, we put on our flip-flops, ordered our cheeseburgers in paradise and took the Margaritaville at Sea motto to heart— Relax, unwind, and get in your ocean state of mind. FCM

L to R: Enjoy dining at Fins, which is included in your ticket, catch Tales from Margaritaville - Jimmy's Ship Show or enjoy the ship's casino.

GILCHRIST BLUE SPRINGS STATE PARK

FORECAST: CHILLY WITH A CHANCE OF FUN

Written by: Ben Knowles

It was a little after 8 a.m. when Laura and I launched our paddleboards at the Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park in High Springs, Florida. After paddling over the stunning head spring, we eased our way down the crystal-clear spring run toward the river.

This might sound like the start of just another paddling adventure. But it was a special trip. Laura and I were celebrating our 10-year wedding anniversary with a day exploring the Santa Fe River and some of its beautiful springs near Gainesville.

The air was chilly in the low 50s. Fog rising from the water added a special touch to the picturesque scenery of a spring run surrounded by forest. As we paddled out of the run, the

sun was waking up the Santa Fe and affirming that it was going to be a great day on the river!

Our plan was to paddle downstream to several springs along the Ginnie Springs Campground. However, Laura and I made a slight detour upstream to visit Rum Island, a beautiful spring area right off the river.

I shed my warm clothes down to a swimsuit and slipped on my snorkeling gear. I took a deep breath as my body responded to the cool water. It was so clear I could see across the entire spring area. The magnificent view made me forget any lingering cold thoughts.

After a quick snorkel, we resumed our paddle downstream. Laura and I had the river to ourselves.

'Laura and I were celebrating our 10-year wedding anniversary with a day exploring the Santa Fe River and some of its beautiful springs near Gainesville.'

THE SPRINGS WERE CRYSTAL CLEAR WITH BEAUTIFUL UNDERWATER VIEWS.

Woodpeckers drummed and birds sang as we took in the sights. Huge bald cypress trees lining the bank, a great egret hunting for breakfast in the shallow waters and an impressive white-tailed buck easing through the forest were just a few sights we enjoyed making our way down the Santa Fe. But peaceful sights and sounds did not last forever. We started hearing a self-appointed DJ’s music booming from the Ginnie Springs Campground. The campground is popular year-round and not the quietest place. We prefer less active spots when we paddle, but the springs in this area are some of the prettiest in Florida and well worth enduring a little noise. There are five different spring systems along the campground and two more across the river.

The first stop was the Devil system, which is made up of three separate vents (the Devil’s ear, eye and mouth) just off the river. Laura and I were not registered campers or visitors therefore we could not access the campground land or facilities. No problem, we were allowed to paddle into a run and anchor our boards to snorkel.

This was our MO for each of the spring systems we visited.

The springs were crystal clear with beautiful underwater views. Although the campground was fairly active, few people were swimming. That is one of the benefits of getting out on the water early, especially when it is chilly. Laura and I did share the springs with several turtles and a few bream but we did not mind at all.

After a few hours of spring hopping, we were ready to paddle back to Gilchrist Blue. It was a fairly easy paddle upstream except for one little rapid. The swift water gave us a challenge, but with a little muscle and determination we got past the rapid.

Laura and I returned to the state park by mid-afternoon. Before taking out our boards we enjoyed our last swim of the day in the beautiful Gilchrist Blue.

Once our boards were deflated and tucked away in our SUV, we walked a trail to see our tenth spring system of the day and to conclude our anniversary excursion at the Santa Fe River.

Ben Knowles is an outdoor enthusiast living in North Florida with his wife and two children. Find his Facebook page “Ben Outside Photography” to enjoy photos, stories and videos of his outdoor adventures throughout Florida. FCM

There are five different spring systems along the campground and two more across the river.

ROUNDUP

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, Florida’s 175th state park, privately owned until 2017, when the family of Ruth B. Kirby sold the Gilchrist Blue Springs property. It was renamed in 2019. Ms. Kirby had worked with the former real-estate tycoon Ed C. Wright, who died in 1969.

floridastateparks.org, 386-454-1369

Huge bald cypress trees lining the bank, a great egret hunting for breakfast in the shallow waters and an impressive white-tailed buck easing through the forest were just a few sights we enjoyed making our way down the Santa Fe.

CROCS ARE MAKING A COMEBACK

FLORIDA NATIVE POPULATION GROWING

Written by: Bill LaPlante

Iwrite of one of Florida’s most ancient reptiles – the croc. Um … that would be the American crocodile, not the open-heeled plastic shoes. Although my mother, now nearing 96 years young, loves those floating, slip-resistant things and has a half dozen pair in multiple colors, we are speaking here of the growing population in our state of the Florida gator’s cousin.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, The American crocodile, or Crocodylus acutus, still maintains the federal status of "threatened", though the population of just 300 adults in 1975 has grown to nearly 2,000 in recent years. Over the decades, they were hunted nearly to extinction for their hides (think boots, belts and handbags) and heads (think Sunshine State tourist trap trinkets). And while habitat destruction continues to eliminate breeding grounds, with hundreds more acres

going under developers’ machinery each day, this primeval beast’s numbers are finally on the rebound.

The FWC also tells us that American crocodiles are a "shy and reclusive" exotic species and, despite popular belief, are not actually indigenous to sunny Florida. Originally introduced here in the 1800s from their native Caribbean breeding grounds, these reptiles are more susceptible to the cold than alligators, so South Florida is generally the northernmost reach of their range. Over the years, they have become saltwater-tolerant and now inhabit brackish regions. They are also still found in the fresh-water ponds, creeks and coves of mangrove swamps – much like the one in my backyard! More recently, the extensive canal systems of South Florida have provided a sort of superhighway to inland freshwater coastal areas, extending the range of the American crocodile as far north as Tampa. They can also

Crocodile numbers have recovered from a few hundred individuals to as many as 2,000 adult crocodiles today. The Florida population of this native species is now classified as threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

be found in Hispaniola, Cuba, Jamaica, astride the Caribbean coast from southern Mexico to Venezuela, and spanning the Pacific coast from Mexico to Peru.

CROCS VS. GATORS

So, how do we know that we have just seen a croc and not one of the million-or-so gators that seem to inhabit every golf course lake and water retention pond from St. Petersburg to the Florida Keys? The FWC says it can be tough for most folks to distinguish between the American crocodile and the ubiquitous native Florida gator. This is especially true when all you get is a

quick glance at a bobbing snout protruding everso-slightly from a placid pond while the sun is reflecting off your Ray Bans. To help out, here are some distinguishing characteristics to help you identify each species:

• Crocs are a lighter gray-green color, while alligators are nearly black.

• Crocs have their fourth lower tooth on each side exposed when their jaws are closed, while gators display only upper teeth.

• Crocs have a tapered, narrow snout, while gators boast a broader, roundish one.

• Baby crocs are light with dark stripes, whereas baby gators are dark with yellowish stripes.

QUICK FUN FACTS

Crocs, like all reptiles, are "ectothermic", meaning that they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperatures. That explains why you may see them sunning waterside, mouths agape, soaking up the sun. If our human lives were that simple, perhaps our A/C bills would be much lower in the summertime!

American crocodiles mate in late fall or early winter, with nesting following late in April or early in May. Females lay between 20 and 50 eggs, which hatch in a month and a half or so, right before the summer rains. When the cute critters pop out of their shells, Mama Croc digs up the nest and carries her little ones to the nearest available water.

Lastly, most of us have heard that if you are ever chased by a croc or gator, you must run a zigzag pattern as the ultimate escape route. As it turns out, you can file that under the heading of DANGEROUS INFORMATION. If you need to put space between you and a sharp-toothed reptile, what matters is simply speed, so just hightail it in a straight line pronto, putting as much ground between you and that reptilian critter as quickly as possible. FCM

AMERICAN CROCODILES ARE A "SHY AND RECLUSIVE" EXOTIC SPECIES AND, DESPITE POPULAR BELIEF, ARE NOT ACTUALLY INDIGENOUS TO SUNNY FLORIDA.

The guitar sensation Champ Jaxon makes a live album in mid-March in Venice, Florida. But it may be the last recording in a child’s voice: Already a veteran performer, Champ is just 12, his boy voice yet to break into a man’s, says his father

THE CHAMP JAXON BAND

STILL KICKIN’ IT — AT AGE 12

Written by: Jack Collier

Champ Jaxon

Nate Winkler, who is also rhythm guitarist for The Champ Jaxon Band.

“We’ll see what happens,” Winkler says of that time in the near future. Jackson Champ Winkler, of Punta Gorda, Florida, was introduced to music by his parents, Nate and Ivey, 3-year-old Champ strumming away on an air guitar at a Florida music festival, says his father. “And off he went,” Nate says, referring to his son’s leap into music.

Scroll forward to an open-mic session in Cape Coral, Florida, Champ had by then absorbed virtual lessons with Scott Sharrard, a guitarist for Little Feat and former guitarist and musical director for the late Gregg Allman’s band, his dad says. His playing and songwriting advance with each year. “He’s just a sponge,” Nate says.

That Cape Coral performance helped in forming The Champ Jaxon Band, a play on his name. Bandmates include the drummer Brent Adam and bassist Nick Rosado. Nate is the band’s rhythm player, its maestro/road manager. Its first gig was a brewpub on March 8, 2019.

The Champ Jaxon Band tours the Midwest and south, almost always near an amusement park, Winkler says, so that his son can be a kid. He had also appeared on the “Ellen Show” and had a bit part in a show called “Ordinary Joe” before that ended.

CHAMP AT 12 YEARS OLD IS ALREADY A VETERAN PERFORMER.

THE GUITAR SENSATION CHAMP JAXON MAKES A LIVE ALBUM IN MID-MARCH IN VENICE, FLORIDA.

Enthusiasm for the band gets so spirited, in fact, that after one gig a fan rushed Champ and “grabbed him like a teddy bear,” says Adam, the drummer. “Please put him down,” Adam says he told the woman. “He’s not a stuffed animal … you shouldn’t be touching other people’s kids.”

Champ, Adam added, “looked at me and started laughing. We all watch over him, no one gets too close.”

Champ is savvy enough to answer media questions with pat responses, but he is approachable, answering easily and with some depth. Afterward, he will wander off to play Minecraft, doing kid things before strolling onstage, barefoot.

“Check one, two, check one two,” he says into the microphone. Usually ringside are his grandparents, JC and Barbara Winkler, who attend most of the band’s gigs.

A few electrified strums and beating of drums, and The Champ Jaxon Band launches into its first 45-minute set, which will include mostly cover songs but also “No Time for Hate,”

Champ's lyrical take on bullying. “Tonight, he’s a rock star,” Nate Winkler says of his son, “and tomorrow he has a list of chores … take out the trash, pick up the dog poop.”

The Champ Jaxon Band, champjaxon.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHAMP JAXON BAND

WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN

Every issue of Florida Country magazine is filled with easy, delicious recipes you’ll want to make again and again.

INGREDIENTS

1-pound fresh radishes, stems removed,

ends trimmed, and halved

1 tablespoon melted butter

½ teaspoon salt

⅛ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon dried chives

3 garlic cloves, minced Ranch dressing

PREPARATION

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a bowl, combine radishes, butter, chives, salt, and pepper; toss until the radishes are evenly coated. Spread radishes out in a single layer in a large 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, remove and add the minced garlic and toss. Return to oven to bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until radishes are golden brown and easily pierced with a fork. Drizzle ranch dressing on top and garnish with fresh chives.

ROASTED GARLIC RADISHES

Serves 4

Serves 2

INGREDIENTS

1-pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cubed

1 cup sliced carrots

1 cup frozen green peas

½ cup sliced celery

4 teaspoons of garlic, minced

⅓ cup butter

⅓ cup chopped onion

⅓ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon celery seed

1 ¾ cups chicken broth

cup milk

2 (9 inch) unbaked pie crustsww

PREPARATION

Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Combine chicken, carrots, peas, garlic and celery in a saucepan; add water to cover and bring to a boil. Boil for 15 minutes, then remove from the heat and drain. While the chicken is cooking, melt butter in another saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Slowly stir in chicken broth and milk. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until thick. Remove from heat and set aside. Place chicken and vegetables in the bottom pie crust. Pour hot liquid mixture over top. Cover with second pie crust, flip over crust on top of other pie crust and seal the edges, and cut away any excess dough. Make several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven until it’s golden brown and filling is bubbly, roughly 30 to 35 minutes. Cool for 15 minutes before serving.

INGREDIENTS

2 steaks of your choice

1 cup dry white wine

6 tablespoons olive oil

6 tablespoons garlic cloves, minced

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pepper

½ tablespoon crushed red pepper

3 tablespoons parsley

6 tablespoons butter

5 ounces blue cheese crumbles

¾ cup heavy whipping cream

PREPARATION

Combine wine, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper and parsley, mix well. Put steaks in a Ziploc bag and pour marinade over steaks, refrigerate 6 hours. Remove steaks from bag. Cook steaks as desired (grill, broil, etc.) In medium saucepan over medium heat, melt blue cheese crumbles, constantly stirring. Once melted, add the heavy whipping cream and stir until sauce thickens. Pour blue cheese cream sauce over cooked steaks.

CHICKEN

POT PIE

Serves 8

STEAK WITH BLUE CHEESE SAUCE

THE CULINARY CRACKER

INGREDIENTS - SALAD DRESSING

¼ cup white sugar

½ cup olive oil

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

1 tablespoon minced onion

¼ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

INGREDIENTS – SALAD

1-quart strawberries, sliced

10 ounces fresh spinach - rinsed, dried and ripped into bite-size pieces

¼ cup almonds, blanched and slivered

5 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

PREPARATION

Make dressing: Whisk together sugar, oil, vinegar, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion, paprika, and Worcestershire in a medium bowl. Cover and chill for 1 hour. Make your salad by combining strawberries, spinach, feta, and almonds in a large bowl. Pour dressing over salad; toss to coat. Refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Serves 4

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

1 pound ground beef

1 16-ounce bag frozen tater tots

1 8-ounce can tomato sauce

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, divided

½ cup ketchup

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon yellow mustard

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and pepper

extra-virgin olive oil, as needed

Garnish with green onions, chopped

PREPARATION

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a medium bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder and red pepper flakes. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook garlic, for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain fat. Pour sauce into beef, stir until all is evenly coated. Cook for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened. In an oven-safe casserole dish spread mixture into an even layer and top with 1 cup of cheese. Top with tater tots and then sprinkle remaining cheese over the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until tater tots are crispy and golden brown and cheese is melted. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Garnish with green onions before serving.

TATER TOT SLOPPY JOE CASSEROLE

STRAWBERRY AND SPINACH SALAD