By Frank Giles
The Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo is scheduled for Aug. 21–22 at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. This year’s event will be the second at the fairgrounds — a venue which was well received by attendees of last year’s Expo.
The event features an expansive trade show providing growers with an opportunity to learn about the products and services they need to grow a successful crop. Plenty of time will be provided during breaks to allow growers to network with vendors and peers.
“We are excited to be back in Tampa and have another great Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo planned for August,” said Robin Loftin, president of AgNet Media. “We encourage growers to come join us to take in the show and enjoy what Tampa has to offer.”
Big Issues on Tap
The general session on the morning of Aug. 21 will tackle big issues facing agriculture. The farm bill debate, which has stretched into 2024, is an important ag policy for citrus, fruit and vegetable growers. Even though the U.S. House Agriculture Committee has passed its version of the bill, some policy watchers think the likelihood the legislation is passed this year is not great.
Tori Rumenik, director of commodity services and supply chain for the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association, has been following the farm bill closely and advocating for specialty crop priorities. She will provide an update on the progress of the legislation and the key priorities for specialty crop growers.
A special ag policy panel discussion will address issues at the state level and beyond. Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson, State Representative Danny Alvarez and State Senator Jay Collins will provide insights on achievements during the past legislative session and will look ahead to future priorities.
Special Chef Appearance
Chef Justin Timineri is a certified executive chef, author, award winner, teacher and television personality. He currently serves as the Florida state chef and culinary ambassador and promotes the value of healthy food choices and proper nutrition. In 2006, Chef Justin won the Food Network Challenge Great American Seafood Cook-off in New Orleans for the country’s best domestic seafood dish. He has also worked internationally for premier hospitality and catering companies, including the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
Chef Justin will be appearing at the Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo and providing a cooking demonstration on the trade show floor. He also will be speaking about the Fresh From Florida program during the general session. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services program promotes locally grown fruits and vegetables.