With HLB (“citrus greening”) threatening Florida’s citrus industry, growers say they don’t want to hear about long-term research projects; they need answers now. That was the overwhelming input to Citrus Expo planners, which is why the team has assembled a comprehensive day-and-a-half seminar series, “Research to Real Life: Applying the Latest Citrus Science,” to help growers put practical information in place — today.
On Aug. 18-19 at the Lee Civic Center in Ft. Myers, Citrus Expo attendees will learn how to cope with HLB, citrus black spot and other challenges. The Citrus Expo brochure, which includes event details and a list of all seminar topics, in addition to a list of speakers and seminar times, can be found at http://www.citrusexpo.net/.
Attendance is free to bona fide growers, and multiple CEU/CCA credits will be available. The trade show portion of the event will include product education, food, fun, fellowship and prizes both days.
Two new major elements have been added to this year’s event! In response to requests for an after-dinner social event on Wednesday, Citrus Expo planners are introducing a Casino Night Fundraiser for Florida FFA on Aug. 18. The party will take place from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the host hotel, Holiday Inn Fort Myers at Gulf Coast Town Center. In addition to supporting FFA with a $50 donation, participants will receive two free drinks and 50 units of gaming chips. Donations for Casino Night tickets can be made online at http://www.citrusexpo.net/.
The second new feature, a Stay for Steak Lunch Finale, is set for Aug. 19 from noon to 2 p.m. at the end of Citrus Expo. This will be an excellent opportunity to network with citrus industry folks while enjoying fine food, good times, and another grand-prize giveaway!
Show goers can also expect many popular features from past Citrus Expos to return. For example, growers who preregister for Citrus Expo once again will automatically be entered into a drawing to win a John Deere gun safe, courtesy of Everglades Farm Equipment. Preregistration is now open online at www.CitrusExpo.net/registration.html.
For more information on Citrus Expo, including exhibit space and sponsorship opportunities, visit http://www.citrusexpo.net/ or call 352-671-1909.