b"FFA CORNERTake the Fresh From Florida Challengeby MATTIE FOUNTAIN, Polk County FFA Federation SecretaryG UP, there is one thing that every kid loves to do while riding GROWING in the car look out the window. Whether there are large buildings or just simple pastures, there is something so intriguing to a little kid about watching the world come and go so fast. But for kids right here in Central Florida, it wasnt large buildings catching their eyes, but rows and rows of fruits and vegetables. Whether it be fruits or vegetables, it is easy to see that Polk County has thousands of acres simply dedicated to feeding this state. Often, we take for granted that we are surrounded by fruits and vegetables that have been grown locally. This month, Citrus Mutual held a speech contest in loving memory of Julia C. Black. This contest allowed for students to write a speech while also learning about the citrus industry. One major part of the Florida Citrus industry is the consumption by locals. It becomes so easy to run into Publix and grab the first thing we see, even if its not grown locally. But the next time you go to your local Publix, stop and look at your cart. How much is actually locally grown? Yes, al-though it might be easier at the moment to simply grab the first thing you see. You're not just missing the opportunity to support your local communi-ty, but fresher food as well. Rather than produce having to be shipped from other states, our local produce allows for a fresher tasting product that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are essential for keeping our bodies healthy. Here in Florida, eating locally couldnt be easier! Although going to a farmers market every time you need produce is achievable, its not quite practical. But going to Publix every time you need produce is. The next time you go to your local Publix, I challenge you to look for their Fresh From Florida signs. Overall, fresh Florida produce is a win-win; its delicious, nu-tritious, and helps support our local community. So lets dig in and savor the taste of our Floridas produce!agMON, WED, FRI9AM-6PM|SAT 9AM - 3PM|TUES, THURS, SUNCLOSEDMCS GUNSMITHING SERVICE, LLCREPAIRAPPRAISEBUYSELLTRADEHARD-TO-FIND AMMORE-BARRELINGRE-STOCKINGREBLUINGRESTORATIONBARREL THREADING FOR SILENCERS & MUZZLE BRAKES INSTALLEDWallace & Ortho McLeroy863.285.9234Gunsmiths 108 W. Broadway St.Fort Meade, FL 33841www.mcgunsmith.com36 | CFAN FloridaAgNews.com"