I still check my mailbox everyday in hopes that there will be a packet for our next seminar.  I cannot believe how fast the two years of the Wedgworth programing elapsed.  See everyone soon at the next Wedgworth event. 

Class VII alum presents at UF

A big thanks to Karen Pate (Class VII),  Executive Director of the Crystal Springs Preserve who talked to UF's Department of Agricultural Education and Communications graduate students and faculty about the importance of water sustainability and youth education.

One of the take-home messages from Pate:

"Water conservation, water awareness and recycling must be a way of life."

Thank you Karen! We enjoyed your presentation and loved learning more about the importance of youth education about water issues and how we can help.

Karen Pate and Dr. Hannah Carter.

K

Callie

Driving your tractor down a city street

Farm Roads to Urban Intersections:
Meeting People Where They Are

2012 Agriculture Institute of Florida Workshop and 2012 Annual Meeting

Wednesday, October 10
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Holiday Inn at Walt Disney World Resort (Downtown Disney)
1805 Hotel Plaza Blvd., Lake Buena Vista

Admission: Ag Institute Members: $65
Non-Members: $75
Students: $10
Admission includes all sessions and lunch
Registration: www.farm2urban.eventbrite.com

You can’t drive a tractor down a city street - or can you? Through social media like blogs, Facebook, and Twitter, you can drive a tractor, herd cows, share harvest updates or talk about hot news topics on even the busiest urban streets, anywhere in the world. But how do you know which road to take? Which vehicle is right for you or your company? And how do you avoid getting lost in the traffic?

Join the Agriculture Institute of Florida for Farm Roads to Urban Intersections, a workshop exploring social media avenues from planning your trip to “Are we there yet?” Guest speakers will focus on social media options, strategies for using these tools effectively for business and how to connect with non-agriculture audiences.

Sponsors: Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association, U.S. Sugar Corp., Farm Credit, Florida Sod Growers Cooperative


This workshop is for:
• Anyone who’s wondering, “What’s this all about, and would this be right for me?”
• Companies or individuals who feel “stuck” in their social media efforts
• Communications professionals who want to use social tools more effectively
• Anyone who wants to better understand how social media is shaping how people view agriculture

Keynote Speaker
Ryan Goodman, www.AgricultureProud.com

So you have a blog. So what? Now that you're on the corner, you have to learn to speak the language in order to connect with audiences who may have never set foot on a farm. Since 2007, Ryan Goodman's been sharing his experiences in ranching and cattle management, as well as his perspective on current issues directly with urban audiences through his blog, Agriculture Proud, through Twitter, and through his Facebook page, I Am Agriculture Proud. What's made his efforts successful? Ryan shares the lessons he's learned along the way about creating dialogues, being transparent, and the fact that the road to agricultural advocacy must be a two-way street.

You CAN Get There from Here: The Art & Science of Social Media Strategy
Sue Otten, Chief Marketing Office, OMIX®

As social media tools and technology continually evolve, successful marketers must keep their eyes and ears open to new ways to connect with customers to maintain a company’s competitive edge. Ag industry communications strategist Sue Otten shares the art and science of social media engagement, highlighting proven models for creating content, disseminating the story through traditional and social media and monitoring the effectiveness of your engagement in the fast-changing communications landscape.

Roadmaps and Flight Plans: Getting Started Right
Dr. Tracy Irani / Rachel Divine
University of Florida Center for Public Issues Education
Thinking of entering the social communications highway? This session will cover the basic “how-to’s” of developing and posting great content, the most popular platforms and best sites to use, and the characteristics of successful online communications. Along the way, you’ll explore examples of ag businesses, organizations, and individuals already using social media and will leave with a take-home sheet to help you chart your path and determine if you’re ready to go.

IMG-20120811-00003.jpg

Florida agriculture's future leaders @ the WLI youth leadership training!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Dr. David Jones

Warm fuzzy from Dr. Jones Increasing Your Effectiveness presentation

Technology Session is underway at the Ritz! Hope everyone is enjoying it and learning something new!

Big Weekend for WLIANR!

It is a big weekend coming up for the Wedgworth Leadership Institute 

for Agriculture and Natural Resources! 

What's on the agenda you might ask? Here are a few of the exciting things occurring this weekend in Orlando:

• WLIANR Class VIII Graduation
• WLIANR's first-ever Youth Leadership Programming sponsored by Class VII
• Amazing speakers including Dr. David Jones and Halsey Beshears and others you won't want to miss!
• A Technology Tips session to cover all your bases including Facebook and how to update your alumni directory information!
• WLIANR Auction!
• Amazing awards! 
• WLIANR Alumni Association Annual Meeting

Other speakers and sessions will be included in this fabulous, leadership-filled weekend! For more specific information, check your inbox!

Hope to see YOU in Orlando!

Youth Leadership Programming

Don't forget to register your kids for the Youth Leadership Programming event! Registration deadline is TOMORROW, July 14th! For more details, check the website or your registration brochures! Don't let your kids miss out on this great opportunity!

Reminder! Deadline approaching fast!

The registration deadline is Saturday, July 14th, for the Youth Leadership Programming! Be sure to register your kiddos on time for this great experience! Registration information should be in your registration brochures and on the website!



Youth Leadership Programming
at the WLI Annual Alumni Meeting

brought to you by

Class VII of the Wedgworth Leadership Institute
in conjunction with

Hillsborough Farm Bureau and Ag in the Classroom

We know WLI alumni want the kids to have fun too!

Class VII will be sponsoring Youth Leadership Programming at the Annual Alumni Meeting this year so that youth of all ages may have access to fun activities and educational opportunities while at the Annual Alumni Meeting.

Triumphant Return

Fred spontaneously pays homage as overwhelmed by warm feelings of home.

Roland is certain he's been gone too long.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

There's No Place Like Home

Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Reflection from Fred Fanizzi

An eye opening and life enriching experience has been enjoyed by thirty three outstanding individuals. Thanks a million to all of my Wedgworthy family for facilitating the trip of a lifetime and opening my mind in such a positive way.

After reviewing much of the architectural history of France, Class 8 has left its permanent mark for future generations of Europeans to enjoy.

Reflection from Joey

I am so thankful to be part of such a prestiges program like WLI. This program has exceeded every expectation that I had coming into the program. THANK YOU to everyone that has sacrificed for me to be in this program and THANK YOU to Dr. Carter, staff and my classmates for making such a great experience for me.

Reflection

I feel so completely honored to have had the chance to travel with Class XIII. They are such a great group and have made me feel welcome and part of their family from Day 1. The best way I know how to describe this past adventure is through the words of author Diane Ackerman:

“I don't want to get to the end of my life and find that I have just lived the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well.”

Wedgworth has given me an opportunity to live the width of my life.

I leave this group and this trip challenged to look for more ways to widen my life and be of service to others.

I can't thank Hannah enough for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime-I'm still completely humbled to have been asked to accompany the group. Also a huge thanks to Janice and Avery for being so wonderful.

And lastly, here's a picture of Amsterdam :)

Off on adventures

After seeing the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum, some lunch and souvenir shopping was in order!

Never seen so many bikes!

Even saw a parking garage for bikes in Amsterdam--amazing how many people bike here!

Reflection from the one responsible for this assignment....

"Achievement brings its own anticlimax." Maya Angelou

I was sitting on the bus last night as we were coming into Amsterdam thinking about this class being done. It's a surreal feeling--and while a great achievement--it is a little bit of a letdown. I know all good things must come to an end, but I'm not ready for Class VIII to be done.

I was telling some of the class last night at the bar (where we congregated for one last time) that I was hesitant at the beginning of Class VIII, I had such great experiences with Class VI and VII that I was worried my luck might have run out--but it certainly didn't. Class VIII has been a joy and privilege to work with through these past two years. Again, I wish it weren't over.

Thank you to the class members, their families and coworkers who supported them and to Janice, Avery and Christy.

I don't use this word often--but it's the only one appropriate--I'm blessed to be a part of Class VIII. I know Florida agriculture will benefit from the great things they will do.

Reflection from Lee Cutshall

The Wedgworth "experience" is something I will treasure for the rest of my life. Stepping out of my comfort zone and allowing personal growth through this entire adventure has fundamentally changed my way of thinking. I will forever treasure this new family and from here on out build on these relationships and lessons in life!

Reflection

What a trip, what a program, what a wonderful group of people. Thank you for the opportunity. Here's to the Wedgworth program!

Reflections from John Barben

Alumni, friends and family,
We have had a widening experience on this short journey. Thanks to Hannah, Avery, Janice and Christy for putting together a great trip and program. Also, to those responsible for making this program financially feasible, thank you.

Now if you're wondering about this photo. This is in the champagne cellar at "Champagne Nicholas Feuillatte" and we had a little issue with Mr. Fanizzi wanting to play a game called Jenga. With a quick glance from our fearless leader, Freddie stepped away from the stacked bottles and all ended well.
John Barben

Reflection

I am a firm believer that every experience in your life helps to mold u into a better person. The past 2 years have taught me so much. I know I am a better person because of my Wedgworth family, my new found knowledge of the world, and the agricultural industry. I thank everyone who has help to make this program what it is today and I look forward to seeing how my Wedgworth family next chapters unfold.

Jack's Reflection

WLI has provided us with countless unique opportunities. I hope we can deliver a positive return on the investment that's been made in us.

As opened as our eyes were from the previous trips across Florida and the US we see how closed they can be to the world. How small we really are, but in this we still see how loud our voices can be and how far our impact can reach. The WLI family reaches around the world. Thank you Class VIII for the memories as I look forward to the next phase of WLI.

Reflection from Mike J

As I think back to all of the experiences we have had I am so blessed to have had the experience, personal growth and the building of a great group of friends. What a tremendous experience to build on for our careers!

Mike Janeczek

Reflection from Jim

Every time I start to think that we are coming to the end of our two week trip I quickly realize it is our two year program that is ending. My way of thinking and the way I view the world has changed greatly. While it is sad that it is coming to an end it is time to embrace the next step and make good use of what we have seen and learned.

Reflection from Michael Babb

As I reflect over the last two years and try to define my experiences, it is hard to put such an enlightening experience in a simple thought... With that being said, it is what I have learned from the individual's in this class that I will cherish and carry with me for a lifetime.

Reflection

For two years, our class learned, lived and laughed together.  May the memories and friendships last a lifetime and may this be just the beginning.

It's not where you are today that counts. It's where you are headed. 
- Arthur F. Lenehan

 

Daniel Reflection

This trip has been a once in a lifetime experience that I got to share with 32 good friends. I am so grateful to all the people that made this possible.

Reflection from Susie Bishop

As I reflect on not only the past 2 weeks, but the entire 2 year Wedgworth experience, I am so appreciative of the opportunity I have been blessed to be a part of. Not only have I leaned about agriculture, varying cultures, government and history throughout our state, country and world, I have grown as a person in so many ways. A once in a lifetime experience which has included the formation of lifelong relationships with a whole new family; my Wedgworth Family. From my nomination to become a part of class VIII, to the hours of work Hannah, Janice, Avery and Christy have dedicated to this remarkable program, to my very supportive family at home, I give my since appreciation! Let's keep in touch!

Reflection from Tony Lopez

I'm extremely thankful to have had the opportunity to spend this time abroad with such a wonderful group. Many whom I did not know at first...but now all are considered family!

Reflection from Stanley Perry

Meet a lot of interesting people along the way, had great times with the bonds we've made. The end of this trip is the beginning of our Wedgworth life.

Lesson learned

A lesson to be learned from this trip is that there may be u turns,  there may be bumps in the road, you may even run into obstacles but just keep pushing ahead and you will eventually make it, regardless of how narrow the road may seem.

- Carl

Dear Class VIII:

Thank you all so much for sharing your reflections with all of us.  Your heartfelt expressions of appreciation of your two-year experience with this program was overwhelmingly enjoyable to read.  I hope you will continue on your journey to greater things once you return to the States keeping in mind that the WLI allowed you to get your feet wet and broaden your horizons in ways you never thought possible.  You all are very welcome for everything.  It has been my pleasure!!!!!! Enjoy the next couple of days in the Netherlands.  May you have a safe journey home on Sunday.  It's early but -------Happy Father's Day to all you Dad's!!!!!!!

Reflection

This trip is not an end of a wonderful 2 yr experience but really is just the beginning of so much more. 

Reflections from Jenn Helms-Shelley

In the famous words of Dorothy, 'there is no place like home'. However, how can you ever begin to appreciate all of the things you have until you experience other cultures and places. 17 days has gone by in a flash and there are many on this trip who are ready to click their heels, but I have enjoyed it and am grateful that even though we are going home on Sunday, the memories I will take with me and be able to share, are ones that have made me appreciate all of the things I have and the things people have sacrificed for me to be able to call the USA home. Thank seems so small, but I hope it conveys the great gifts you all have given me.

Thanks to Hannah

Thank you Hannah for encouraging us to step outside our normal environment, embrace adventure, savor the moment, accept new challenges, and for making us family. We respect, admire, appreciate and love you, Avery, Janice and Christy for all you've done on our behalf. God bless you and yours.

Reflection: Stop and smell the roses

Focus + Discipline = Success. Add in WLIANR's entrepreneurs, brainiacs, producers & passionate people & you have a recipe for great things!!

Reflection from Staci Braswell

To whom much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:48).

I recognize how much this program has given & look forward to finding big & small ways to give back.

Reflection-Darrell Smith

Like the rest of our Wedgworth experience our international trip has been amazing! I'm thankful to experience Europe's history, it's innovative agriculture, and it's people...with class 8. I'm thankful for those that have come before me that have made this opportunity possible, and now more than ever for those that have served and sacrificed for our country. I'm looking forward to seeing the good things this class will do for Florida agriculture in the future.

Tim's Thoughts

Wow! What an amazing opportunity and experience......a new perspective and world view, another tool to draw upon as we continue to our journey through life.

I am grateful for those who have touched my life in this program and the experiences. I am proud to be among those in Wedgworth!
Jennifer Greene

Going Global

Seeing the world's largest flower market and realizing that some of those flowers would be in New York this afternoon reminds me just how small the world has become. This entire trip has reminded me that there are many people working very hard to accomplish many tasks, big and small, from dairy farmers and lettuce growers in the Netherlands producing healthy and safe food to members of the EU Parliament that make policy decisions that affect the globe. But no matter the task we perform, all of our roles are important and necessary.

Amanda E Taylor
Trenam Kemker
200 Central Ave #1600
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
ataylor@trenam.com
(727) 824 6296

Reflection

It's been a fantastic journey. We've seen many interesting places and met honest, engaging and passionate people. I thank you for the opportunity to be a part of this group and for all the wonderful times together. Through tears and laughter the time has flown by. I'd also like to thank our families at home who have supported us through our program. Cheers, Amy.

One of the most difficult, most rewarding Experiences I have ever had. Jamie Ross

Innovation

Laser guided milking machine.A recurring theme from our speakers has been innovation. European farmers and researchers are looking to compete in the future by being innovative in their products and their production methods. The game is changing for agriculture and the U.S will have to be just as innovative to keep with up with our competition and to provide food for a growing global population.

Reflection by Kim

I've never been more proud to be an American and a farmer.

**Due to limited internet connections, forgotten passwords, etc. others will be posting from my account. Look for their names within the message**

Reflection from Will Womack

I see trees of green, red (tulips) too
I see them bloom for me and you
And I think to myself, what a wonderful world.
…
The colors of the rainbow, so pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces of the people passing by
I see friends shaking hands sayin, “How do you do”
They are really saying “I love you”
…What a wonderful world.
Thank you to everyone over the last two years that have provided me, reminded me, taught me and shared this opportunity, what a wonderful world we live. God continue to bless…from Amsterdam – Will Womack

Ok, well I just reset my google password in dutch  what a process, thanks to all the hotel staff for the ways to skip my mobile phone and all.  This trip has been amazing It has completely changed my views of the EU.  I have realized that the EU has aligned themselves to become a world power.   The knowledge that I have gained and the sites that I have visited have been so rewarding as a final Wedgworth trip. I want to give a big thanks to Hannah, Avery, Janice, and Christy for an amazing journey.  Ok i must go as programming starts at 5:45 am tomm  A special thanks to Kim Erickson for the use of the Samsung tab.  Talk to you soon.

Rabo's new addition

Kudos to Class VIII's Tony Lopez and his Rabo associates for a fabulous tour and overview of food and ag policy from the Rabo perspective. Tony presented Rob van Zadelhoff, CCO West of Rabobank International with this proud Gator flag to commemorate our visit!

Reflections

Tonight I asked the group to post a "Twitter" type reflection on this blog by Saturday--149 characters on what this trip has meant to them. Be on the look out for their words and thoughts on this trip.

We've had another great day of programming and the thoughts have definitely turned of home. We have one of the world's largest floral markets and the world's greatest floral show to visit before our trip is done.

Tonight though, we are cheering on the Dutch soccer team--their colors are very reminiscent of home!

Required thoughts from Carl

The experience of a lifetime, live it, hold on to it, reflect on it often.
-Carl

Dutch and Florida dairy farmers meet

Was a cross-cultural learning experience to hear our Class VIII dairy farmer, Susie Bishop, compare milking and feeding practices with our Dutch host, Harm Wemmenhove.

Sweets for the sweet

With her beautiful smile, Avery can coax more than Dutch dairy cows to eat out of her hands!

Rabobank

During our visit to Rabobank, we learned about their innovative work styles- no one has a set office (none of their 2200 + employees who work in the newer bldg). Rather there is an open work space with different types of stations. They even have a "forest" room for employees who like to be around plants. So cool!

What I thought the Netherlands looked like

From the windows of our tour bus, caught this shot of what I thought Holland looked like -- the modern wind farms may provide the power the area needs but they sure lack the charm of this iconic windmill. Enjoyed the lettuce farm tour today -- looking forward to the Rabobank visit and the mushroom and tomato farm tours tomorrow and Thursday!

The Netherlands and Dry Hydroponics

Brugge

On our day off we went to Brugge by train.  What a beautiful city. 

Amazing Race

Our Amsterdam tour was briefly interrupted by teams from CBS' Amazing Race! Our tour guide helped them out so look for WLI next season!

Univeg Tour

Enjoyed learning what Univeg does -- many thanks to Pieter Lenaerts and Jan Van Rie for the tour of the fresh salad packing process and the lovely lunch!

"On Your Own"

Today is the rare "on your own" day in leadership programming. We are a week from home and the group needs a day not to be told what time to be on the bus, what time to eat, etc. hopefully everyone has a relaxing and enjoyable day and is refreshed to start our last week of programming in the Netherlands.

The group has done extraordinarily well--they are a pleasure to travel with and I think it's hitting me as much as it is them that our days together are dwindling.

We hear some parts of Florida are getting some much needed rain. We've been extremely fortunate weather-wise. I hope our luck continues, especially as we have several boat tours this week.

I look forward to the stories and posts from the adventures folks have today--am hopeful they will post many here.

Seven days to go!

Tour of Brussels

Visited the European parliament visitor centre this morning. Now on bus tour of town.

European Commission's Ag and Rural Development Office

I love sunflowers!

EU Ag Policy Exercise

During our seminar this afternoon with Mark Cropper, the European Commission's Directorate General of Agriculture and Rural Development, we worked through exercises to examine the the social, economic, environmental, financial and world trade influences on the past 50 years of EU ag policy development. Thought provoking to say the least!.

One week down....

A week ago about this time, we were all making our way to Orlando for the start of this trip. There was much apprehension and excitement in the group. A week later, they are seasoned travelers and a close-knit family.

We have seen and done some amazing things this week--from one of the worlds largest food markets--to the largest American military cemetery--to traveling through four countries in the last week. It's certainly been a leadership program, not a vacation.

We've settled into our hotel in Brussels for the weekend. I think everyone is looking forward to their free time on Sunday and not having to be anywhere at any time.

We're all missing home and our families and look forward to seeing you all very soon!

Bernie Stepping Down

June 8, 2012

Dear members of the University of Florida community,

Today, I informed the UF Board of Trustees of my intention to step down as president next year.  As the Board begins the search for my successor, I am committed to continuing my leadership until the university is ready for a smooth transition.

My service at Florida’s top public university and one of the most comprehensive public universities in the nation has been a privilege.  I will have served as president for almost 10 years, and I have been fortunate to work with many exceptionally smart and dedicated faculty, staff and students.  The experience has been fulfilling and inspiring for me as well as my wife, Chris, and we thank you for all your dedication and support for the university throughout our time here.

You – the faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends – have a great deal to be proud of.  Amid a very difficult period for higher education, we have built a stronger, more dynamic, more forward-thinking university.  This is clear foremost in our faculty, whose honors, research productivity and leadership roles in major scientific collaborations stand out as major achievements.  Six UF professors have joined the National Academies since 2004, and our faculty have been at the forefront of many of the major scientific collaborations of our era, from the world’s largest optical telescope in Spain to the Collider Detector at Fermilab in Chicago to the National Ecological Observatory Network.  Contracts and grants have climbed from $470 million in fiscal year 2003-04 to $619 million last fiscal year.

As we are one of the nation’s land grant universities, much of our research has been focused on matters of public concern.  We have contributed to environmental stewardship with the formation of the UF Water Institute, to the nation’s political future with the Bob Graham Center for Public Service, and to better medical care with the Clinical and Translational Science Institute. Building on the legacies of Gatorade and the glaucoma drug Trusopt, we have helped more UF discoveries improve lives, nurturing innovation through Innovation Square and the Florida Innovation Hub.

Many new facilities further the university’s endeavors in research, teaching, athletics, cultural affairs and student life.  These include several major new research buildings: Pugh Hall at the historic center of our campus; the breathtaking Cofrin Asian Art Wing; and the expansive Southwest Recreation Center.  As our physical presence has grown, our financial foundation has strengthened.  UF’s endowment has more than doubled since 2004 to $1.29 billion, and our donors and friends have helped to secure the university’s future with the $1.5 billion Florida Tomorrow campaign now reaching a successful conclusion.

UF’s students remain at the core of our mission and a particular point of pride.  At the undergraduate level, each class of entering students eclipses the previous one in academic performance markers.  We are proud that America’s largest corporations are major recruiters of our graduates, and we are also pleased that our graduates remain dedicated to public service.  This year, UF ranked fourth nationwide in the number of volunteers who enter the Peace Corps, and last year, UF was fifth in Teach for America volunteers.

Our graduate programs continue to set UF apart from other universities, and our graduate enrollment has climbed, with master’s students increasing 28 percent and doctoral students 8.5 percent since 2004.

State cutbacks have prompted tuition increases and accelerated UF’s path to financial independence, yet the university has maintained its oft-noted status as one of the best values in the nation.  For families in need, UF’s pioneering Florida Opportunity Scholarship has enabled 2,300 students to attend UF.  Most are minorities, helping the university retain its diversity following the end of race-based admissions.

The UF athletics program continues to shine.  Over the past eight years, the Gators won 10 national titles.  These achievements build on UF’s enduring legacy in sports, a legacy never more clear than at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where 33 Gators from 20 countries took home 14 medals, including five gold medals.

UF has a long tradition of research and service dedicated to the environment, and we elevated that tradition by making sustainability a centerpiece of campus life.  We grew our commitment to the Gainesville community with the East Campus, and we increased our presence globally with the Beijing Center for International Studies.

As we look ahead, UF faces numerous challenges, but the past few years have tested and proven this university’s remarkable resilience and resourcefulness.  I feel strongly that UF rests on a firm foundation and has clear avenues for lasting growth and success.  As I plan to remain here as a professor after I step down, I look forward to remaining engaged with the university and community.  Once again, I want to thank all of you for your dedication and contributions.  Chris and I feel truly grateful to have joined you in strengthening UF and The Gator Nation.

Sincerely,

Bernie Machen

President, University of Florida

Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial

The cemetery was established on December 29, 1944 by the 609th Quartermaster Company of the U.S. Third Army while Allied Forces were stemming the enemy's desperate Ardennes Offensive, one of the critical battles of World War II. The city of Luxembourg served as headquarters for Gen. George S. Patton's U.S. Third Army. Gen. Patton is buried here.

Sobering day

Remembering fallen Americans lost in WWI. A tough reminder of freedom's cost.

Today may have been one of the most poignant days of leadership programming for Class VIII.  As we walked the battleground and memorial at Meuse-Argonne, we were reminded once again of the sacrifice so many gave to stop the German advance during WWI.  More than 1.2 million US troops fought during the 47 days of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.  About 117,000 were killed or wounded.  The memorial is the largest American cemetery in Europe and is overseen by the American Battle Monuments Commission.  God Bless America and those who gave so much during this difficult time in our history.

Hallowed ground at Meuse-Argonne

Standing where so many Americans gave their lives for the freedom of others inspires reflection...and gratitude.

Champagne

Spent the day touring champagne production facilities in Champagne, France. Really interesting learning about co-ops and the lengthy process in making champagne. Also had a great time learning more about the history of Reims, France yesterday . The front lines of World War 1 were actually 15 kilometers from Reims and the cathedral here was used for all of the coronations of France's kings. Tomorrow we are headed to the largest American war time memorial in Europe which is a cemetery - pretty incredible to go and reflect on the sacrifice our soldiers have made the day after D-Day.

Hope everyone back home is well!!

Nicolas Feuillatte

Vats for fermentation. 22 million bottles of champagne are produced here a year; pretty good for only being 35 years old!

Let There be Food. . . and Flowers

Day 5 started so early it was still dark out. An early morning drive to Rungus Market went by quickly, or maybe I dozed off. Anyway, we arrived and suited up for our tour starting with the seafood

,

The seafood goes on sale at midnight and closes up about 6am. We caught it about 5am as they started to clean up. We saw everything from trout to eels, snails to crabs, lots of flounder and other delicacies like abalone and these baby octopi.

The sun greeted us with a gorgeous show as we emerged from the chilly fish building. On we went to check out two meat buildings piled high with duck, quail, rabbit, frog leggs, every pig parts sorted by type or hanging in original form, lots of veal and even lamb brain.

Fred was ready to fire up a grill in the parking lot, but there was more to see before breakfast. Cheese was next where a few hundred different kinds are sold in everything from petite  packages to large wheeles.

On to some of the fruit and veg buildings. You can imagine how the pace slowed as we switched from sightseeing mode to evaluating the quality, packaging, and variety of the products many  of us know well. Sweet potatoes grown in the USA were spotted but FL grapefruit were nowhere to be found. Maybe they sold out.

Last on the tour was the flower section. You would know where you are even blindfolded when the fragrance washes over you at the door. Aisle after aisle of every color and kind of flower.

After being tempted by food for the last three hours, everyone was eager to sit down for a diverse and filling breakfast. Plenty of bread, ham, cheese, and red wine in French style with fruits and coffee. Piling back into the bus by 9am it was clear even if the day was over now, this will be a highlight of our trip.