Page 14 - CFAN_Sep2014

QB
PUBLISHER LETTER
HUNGER—
THE OTHER THEME OF THIS EDITION
EVERY YEAR AT THE END OF SUMMER, we like to turn our focus to the small farms, alternative crops, and farmers markets of our region. This edition, we’re also taking a close look at alternative growing methods, such as hydroponics. Farmers, backyard growers, community gardens, and families alike are getting green thumbs, not by getting down in the dirt, but by growing vertically with a soil-less system! It’s a
very unique way to diversify your operation, and we’re excited to tell you more about it.
But, there’s another theme for this edition. Sometimes, we catch word of something that’s great, like a worthy cause or a group working to make a difference, and we just can’t wait to share it with you. We make it a priority to bring it to your awareness, not just because it’s relevant and important— which it is— but also because there are some innovative things happening, thanks to some pretty motivated and bright people.
What I’m referring to is, how some great people, groups, and organizations are working towards feeding the hungry in our community. You may not be aware of it, but our region falls in the top ten communities in America in both food hardship and suburban poverty. Obviously, this is not a measure we want to be a leader in. In addition, seven out of 10 children are eligible for free and reduced lunch. In other words, more than half of our kids are not fully prepared to learn when they come to school because they’re hungry. The people I referred to above, however, are working to change all that.
We caught word of a hydroponics operation that’s feeding the homeless at The Mission in Winter Haven. You can read more about them on PAGE 20. We also have an update from Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam on what he and the folks in his department are doing to help turn the reality of hunger in Florida around. Plus, on PAGE 16 our new FFA columnist, Abby Crawford, talks about what she’s doing to help end hunger at her high school. These folks are doing their part to help make a difference. We hope that their stories motivate and inspire you to think of solutions that will help end hunger in our community. As always, thanks for reading Central Florida Ag News magazine!
NELSON KIRKLAND, Publisher nelson@centralfloridamediagroup.com
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