FAMU C-AG News Buffet

Florida Grown School Lunch Week 2011 at the Fla. Capital

2011-10-24T09:58:00.000-07:00

October 24, 2011 marks the first observance of Food Day across the country. It was an appropriate milestone to mark the endeavors of the FAMU Cooperative Extension's with the Farm to School Program which is the foundation for the celebration of Florida Grown School Lunch Week 2011.

Congratulations to Vonda Richardson, Program Leader for Marketing and Small Farm Outreach (FAMU Cooperative Extension Program) and Glyen Holmens, Executive Director of the New North Florida Cooperative for being present and accounted for at the kick off event at the Florida Capital, Monday, October 24, 2011 - 10 - 2 p.m.

For information about FAMU's marketing and small farm outreach activities, please contact Vonda Richardson, 215 Perry-Paige, Bldg., FAMU College of Agriculture, Tallahassee, FL 32305 or email: vonda.richardson@famu.edu.

Posted by Marian B. Gibbons, Director, Office of Communications, College of Agriculture, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL Email: marian.gibbons@famu.edu, or mabellgibbs@gmail.com.

FAMU rooted in the history of the first Annual Florida Grown School Lunch Week

2011-10-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

TALLAHASSEE, FL —For nearly two decades, the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Cooperative Extension Program has worked to build a solid foundation of health and nutrition for elementary and secondary students in north Florida. Outreach initiatives of the Marketing and Small Farm Outreach program at FAMU, in collaboration with the New North Florida Cooperative (NNFC), played an important role in history that has led to the observance of the First Annual Florida Grown School Lunch Week which will be observed on October 24-28, 2011.

The First Annual Florida Grown School Lunch Week will be hosted by the Florida Department of Education, Food and Nutrition Management in partnership with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bureau of Food Distribution. The week will begin on Monday, October 24, 2011, with a kick-off event at the Capitol Courtyard from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm in Tallahassee. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be held on the 22nd floor.

This year’s theme is “Bring a Farmer or Chef to School.” The event will highlight locally grown products in school lunches, demonstrations by culinary staff that work with growers and schools, displays from school districts which showcase local foods in school lunches, and school-based nutrition education activities to promote locally grown and raised food.

Background. The first annual observance of this event is the result of the passage of a resolution promoting Farm to School Programs by the U.S. House of Representatives.

The Farm to School Program is a nationwide endeavor which grew from the success of a pioneer farm-to- -school program in Florida which was initiated by a group of innovative African-American farmers after they formed the New North Florida Cooperative Association Inc. in 1995. The NNFC began selling produce to Gadsden County schools during the 1996-1997 school year and has rapidly expanded since that time. As a result of positive word-of-mouth publicity, the NNFC experienced a higher demand for their products among school districts in Florida and the Southeast.

Adjusting to the changes associated with expansion, the NNFC also helped connect more farmers to local schools. Since 1995, Farm to School efforts have reached over 100 school districts serving over one million school children. These tiny acorns of change in support of healthy school lunches have grown phenomenally and expanded to be included in a $400 million Healthy Food Financing Initiative approved by the United States government in 2011.

The success of the Farm to School program can be attributed, in part, to outstanding collaborative teamwork and service rendered to local farmers through the FAMU Cooperative Extension Program and New North Florida Cooperative.

The FAMU Cooperative Extension Program salutes Ms. Vonda Richardson, Program Leader, Marketing and Small Farm Outreach, and Mr. Glyen Holmes, Executive Director, NNFC, for outstanding service with the Farm to School Program from 1995 – present.

Richardson expressed, “Through the years, we have overcome many challenges and are very proud of this success story where healthier lunches are more accessible to children throughout the nation.”

Richardson and Holmes will be attending the opening event for Florida Grown School Lunch Week on Monday. They will have a joint exhibitor’s booth with displays and literature. And, of course, they will bring some tasty food samples to the table. Plan to attend the event and stop by their booth to meet these two pacesetters in agriculture.

For more information on the Farm to School Program, please contact:
Vonda Richardson, 215 Perry-Paige Bldg., Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, (850) 599-3546, vonda.richardson@famu.edu.

Glyen Holmes, New North Florida Cooperative Association, Inc., 3806 Union Road, Marianna, FL 32446, (850) 352-2400, nnfc1995@yahoo.com.
Related Links:
a) Florida Farm to School Program - http://www.fldoe.org/FNM/ffs.asp
b) New North Florida Cooperative Association:
http://www.farmtoschool.org/state-programs.php?action=detail&id=23&pid=32

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Article written by Marian B. Gibbons, Director, Office of Communications,
FAMU College of Agriculture, Marian.gibbons@famu.edu

FAMU College of Agriculture - Program Offerings

2011-10-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

The Florida A&M University College of Agriculture provides students with a unique opportunity to "Study and Grow" enriched in the field of agricultural sciences.

Degree programs and options in this college are as follows:

A.A. degree
2+2 program in Forestry and Natural Resource Conservation -- a joint program with the University of Florida.

B.S. degrees
Agricultural sciences with the following options
* Agronomy/Plant Science
* Animal Science - Options in Pre-Veterinary, Veterinary Technology & Industry
* Entomology
* Food Science

Agribusiness - option in International Agriculture and Business
Biological Agricultural Systems Engineering (BASE)
Naval Sciences (NROTC

M.S. degrees in agricultural sciences, entomology, plant sciences
Ph.D. degree joint program in entomology with the University of Florida

For more information about our programs visit www.famu.edu/cesta.

College Name Change

2011-10-19T13:34:00.000-07:00

Effective July 1, 2011, under the restructuring of Florida A&M University, the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology was renamed the new College of Agriculture which offers degree programs in agricultural sciences. A new blog will be unveiled soon with news and events of the college. We hope you will continue to follow the progress of agricultural science scholars, alumni, faculty and staff at Florida A&M University.

Happy Homecoming Rattlers!

2010-10-28T06:27:00.000-07:00

Viticulture Pruning Workshop - February 2010

2010-01-20T13:50:00.000-08:00

The Center for Viticulture Science and Small Fruit Research at Florida A&M University will sponsor a Vineyard Pruning Workshop on February 8, 2010 from 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the FAMU Vineyards, located at 6505 Mahan Drive in Tallahassee.

This workshop will focus on pruning practices for muscadine grapevines (young -- 1-2 years old; mature—3-5 years old; older vines (>10 years) and neglected vines.) The purpose of the workshop is to show proper pruning practices based on various growth stages to maximize yields allowing for adequate vegetative growth for the growing season. Participants are asked to dress for typical vineyard environment and weather conditions as much of the workshop will be conducted outside.

Registration is free for the workshop. To register or for more information, contact Alex Bolquez at (850) 875-7255 or email: abol@ufl.edu.

FAMU Hosts 2010 Tropicana Public Speaking Contest

2010-01-14T07:34:00.000-08:00

The FAMU Cooperative Extension Program will host the 2009-2010 TROPICANA PUBLIC SPEAKING CONTEST on Saturday, January 23, 2010 in the Perry Paige Auditorium, 1740 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307. Each year outstanding students participate in this event which helps in developing the students’ skill and talent in public speaking.

Contact: Tondalya Nelson, FAMU 4-H Coordinator
850-412-8110 - Email: Tondalaya.Nelson@famu.edu

For online information visit –
http://leon.ifas.ufl.edu/4-H_Department/Tropicana/index.shtml#general

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
8:00 - 8:15 a.m. Registration for elementary school speakers (Grades 4-5)
8:15 - 8:30 a.m. Welcome for elementary school competition
8:30 - 10:50 a.m. Elementary school speakers

10:50 - 11:15 am. Registration for middle school speakers (Grades 6)
Judges' conference

11:15 - 11:45 a.m. Introduction of judges
Presentations of Awards for elementary school speakers

11:45 - 12:00 noon Welcome for middle school competition
12:00 - 12:45 p.m. Middle school speaking competition
12:45 - 1:15 p.m. Judges' conference
1:15 p.m. Awards for middle school speakers

International Agriculture Program Volunteer Search

2009-11-23T09:43:00.001-08:00

The Florida A&M University (FAMU) Office of International Agricultural Programs (OIAP) is searching for a volunteer to travel to Nicaragua for a 14-day assignment in the month of December 2009 or March/April 2010.

The Volunteer will work with local extension agents and dairy cooperatives on issues related to Cattle Reproduction and Production Systems.

Desired Qualifications:
• Ability to work with groups of extension agents and dairy cooperatives.
• Understand the dairy production systems in developing countries.
• Ability to train others in the steps needed to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of Cattle Reproduction.
• Ability to train others on how to effectively carry out a health evaluation of the calves and cows in rural settings.
• Ability to train others on how to analyze bovine semen from the bull at the farm level and how to analyze the semen used for artificial insemination.
• Understand the level of rural development on the dairy farms.
• Spanish proficiency preferred.

Expectations/Duties:

• The agricultural extension agents, the university students, farm workers and farm owners will become familiar with the andrological evaluation techniques of the bull and cow gynecology and will learn the basis to appropriate technical examinations and to select or discard the bulls and cows that are able or unable to reproduce satisfactorily.
• The extension agents and technicians from the cooperatives will learn to implement the technical diagnosis on the dairy farms, allowing for short-term specimens that indicate which animals should be ruled out because of low fertility and should be replaced with animals that have better reproductive health conditions. The better health conditions will allow for an increase in pregnancies by 20% and also at the same time, increasing milk production by 10% and increasing the number of calves born.
• The extension agents and technicians from the cooperatives will be trained to assess the feasibility of the semen used in the artificial insemination programs.

All expenses associated with the training are provided by the Farmer-to-Farmer program. These include: economy airfare, meals, accommodation, overseas insurance, and training materials.
How to Apply:

To apply for the volunteer assignment, please send Curriculum Vitae and interest to: elizabeth.robinson@famu.edu or betty.hudson@famu.edu.

FAMU International Agriculture Program in the News

2009-11-09T05:26:00.001-08:00

FAMU granted $1.6M for international project

By Deshay Price, Correspondent

Published: Sunday, November 8, 2009

Special To The Famuan

Photo Caption: Director of Farmer to Farmer Harriett Paul, stands with staff at the University of Fort hare in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa.

The U.S. Agency for International Development awarded the Florida A&M Office of International Agriculture a $1.6 million contract.

The contract will be used for the Farmer to Farmer (FTF) program in South Africa. The program provides voluntary assistance to farmers, farm groups and agribusinesses in developing countries. The money will directly benefit small and medium scale historically disadvantaged farmers in South Africa.

“This is the second contract that we have gotten from the Agency for International Development,” said Harriet Paul, program director. “The new contract provides us with another four years to build on the success that we’ve already achieved in South Africa.

Paul said the first contract was a five-year program funded by the USAID for $1.5 million. More than 80 percent of those recipients indicated their lives were changed and their income substantially increased, “By helping these farmers we also improved nutrition and diets in the household,” Paul said. “We were able to send children to school and 80 percent of the women involved indicated that their roles in business had improved.”

The FTF program recruits agricultural, environmental and business professionals to assist clients living primarily in rural areas.

According to the USAID Web site, the FTF Program was initially authorized by Congress in the 1985 Farm Bill and has provided direct hands-on training to 80,000 people. More than 12,000 volunteer assignments have been completed in over 80 countries and 43 percent of all individuals trained by FTF volunteers are women.

“We just secured our first two volunteers,” said Mark Taylor, communications specialist, who is working closely with the project. “The volunteers will be going to South Africa at the University of Forth Hare. They will assist the farmers that work with the university and the surrounding community.”

The volunteers will conduct a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis to develop better business plans and implement the contract.

Research Associate at South Dakota State University, Yonas Hamda, is one of two men hired to carry out the program in South Africa.

“FAMU offered me the opportunity,” Hamda said. “This allows me to help out by teaching workshops that will help facilitate good decision making tools.”

Farmer to Farmer is a hands-on program where the volunteers work alongside farmers to expand market channels, strengthen entrepreneurial skills and increase production efficiencies all within environmentally friendly production practices.

Building institutional relationships between Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the U.S. and similar institutions in South Africa is another benefit gained from the Farmer to Farmer program.

“Students can certainly play an important role in this program,” Paul said.

Getting involved can strengthen the performance of the universities by supporting the advancement of rural historically disadvantaged individuals.

“In fact, there may be a number of opportunities particularly for graduate students and fourth-year undergraduates to participate in the program in South Africa,” Paul said.

The Web site also states that the program also offers technical assistance to agricultural groups and has potential to largely contribute to the economic growth in the rural areas of South Africa.

For more information, please contact: harriet Paul at 850-561-8867.

2009-11-03T10:20:00.000-08:00

Sugarcane Field took place on Monday, Nov. 2, 2009 from 8 am to 12 p.m. The event attracted the interest of approximately 100 participants, an attendance increase of more than 30% participating in 2008. Congratulations Lester Murralles, coordinator!

Sugarcane Field Day

2009-10-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

The Gadsden County Extension Office will be sponsoring its annual Sugarcane Field Day on Monday, November 2, 2009. Click on images below for registration and other information.

Contact:
Lester Muralles at lester.muralles@famu.edu or 850.875.7255

CESTA Roundup Review

2009-10-26T06:03:00.001-07:00

Co-Chairpersons Osubi Craig and Jenaya Anderson are commended for a great job of planning the Roundup. Go Rattlers!

CESTA Alumni return to celebrate Homecoming and commit their support of programs in the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture at Florida A&M University. Pictured left to right are CESTA alumni Emmitt Alexander, Carolyn Collins, Dean Makola Abdullah and Eric Hinson.

For more photos of the CESTA Alumni Roundup, view the slide show featured.

CESTA Homecoming Alumni Roundup

2009-10-14T14:02:00.000-07:00

Alumni and Friends are invited to attend and enjoy the
Annual CESTA Homecoming Alumni Roundup
sponsored by the
FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture
Friday, October 23, 2009
12:00 noon - 3:00 p.m.
FAMU Teleconference Center
2010 Pinder Drive
Tallahassee, Florida

Food, Fun, Entertainment and More

Homecoming Theme!
Blood, Sweat and Tears... Rattler Pride Throughout the Years!

Contact: J. Anderson or O. Craig - 850-599-3770

Food Science Alum in the News

2009-10-12T05:15:00.001-07:00

The Famuan - FAMU grads bake up fortune

Shared via AddThis

Grape Harvest Festival

2009-08-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

CESTA Dean, Makola Abdullah, is doing a serious grape stomping at the FAMU Grape Harvest Festival, 2009.

FAMU Grape Harvest Festival 09

2009-08-24T07:25:00.000-07:00

Professor Ren displays a variety of muscadine grape wines in the Florida Wine Sampling Session at the 2009 Grape Harvest Festival, August 22, 2009 (Florida A&M University).

Grape Stomping Fun

2009-08-24T07:19:00.000-07:00

A Good Leader for a Greater MANRRS

2009-05-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

CESTA DIRECTOR ELECTED AS PRESIDENT-ELECT OF MANRRS

Caption -- Group photo of FAMU Chapter of MANRRS at 2009 Conference. Dr. Verian Thomas second to left on back row.

Tallahassee, FL -- The National Society for Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) has elected Verian Thomas, Ph.D., as its 2010 National President-Elect. The membership of MANRRS is comprised of students and professionals in approximately 40 chapters that represent more than 50 academic institutions in 29 states.

Thomas is the director of the Division of Agricultural Sciences in the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA) at Florida A&M University (FAMU). She has served in numerous leadership roles for the college and has been very instrumental in the development of academic programs in CESTA over the past decade. Her educational background includes earning her B.S. degree in chemistry from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada; the M.S. degree in chemistry from the University of Michigan and her Ph.D. degree in food science from the Leeds University, England. Through her role as a member of the faculty and an administrator, Thomas also has also been actively involved in the professional development of her students. Currently, she serves as advisor for a very strong MANRRS chapter at FAMU.

“MANRRS is indeed my favorite professional society because I have witnessed firsthand the great impact it has on the professional development of students at Florida A&M University and other universities across the country,” stated Thomas. “I look forward to serving in a leadership capacity for this organization as it continues to train minority students to be competitive and successful in a global economy.”

Thomas is excited about beginning her tenure as president in 2010. Her presidency adds a double dose of exposure for Florida A&M University since it will serve as one of the host institution for the 2010 National MANRRS Conference at Walt Disney in Orlando, Florida, on March 24-27, 2010. “As a conference host, Florida A&M University has an ideal opportunity to highlight the excellent service that has been given to minority students for generations through its outstanding academic programs, research initiatives and extension activities,” responded president-elect Thomas. “Orlando is the ideal site to give recognition and fanfare due to both FAMU and MANRRS, since both organizations continue to work diligently to promote the academic and professional advancement of minorities in the fields such as agriculture, natural resources and related sciences.”

Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director of Land Grant Programs, FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, expressed, “Congratulations to Dr. Thomas on being selected for such a prestigious position in MANRRS, which is the premiere organization for minorities in agricultural sciences. It is fantastic that FAMU has an opportunity, through Dr. Thomas, to have a positive impact on the organization.”

Thomas’ vision for the organization is one for growth. Her main goals are to: 1) to increase the number of Junior MANRRS chapters, which would provide more opportunities for faculty to mentor pre-college students, especially in research; 2) increase the number of student chapters; and 3) seek grant funds to increase funding for scholarships and summer internships for MANNRS members.

For information about agricultural sciences programs and the MANRRS chapter at Florida A&M University, contact: Dr. Verian Thomas, 850-599-3383 or email: Verian.Thomas@famu.edu. To learn more about MANRRS, visit www.MANRRS.org

Grand Opening of new Tuesday Farmers Market

2009-05-11T09:19:00.001-07:00

TALLAHASSEE, FL - The Statewide Small Farm Program at Florida A&M University is pleased to announce the opening the Tuesday Farmers’ Market in Wakulla County. The grand opening of this new growers' market is scheduled throughout the month of May. The market is open Tuesday of each week from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. and located at the Purple Martin Nurseries at 1554 Crawfordville Highway. Local farmers will provide fresh, organic produce and byproducts for sale. Consumers can also enjoy cooking demonstrations featuring some of the top chefs from local restaurants and agencies.

This effort is a recent collaboration between the FAMU Statewide Small Farm Program, local/small farmers and the Purple Martin Nurseries.

Expansion of growers’ and urban markets is continuing rapidly in the Big Bend area due to technical assistance provided to the FAMU Statewide Small Farm Program, which is an outreach component of the FAMU Cooperative Extension Program in the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA). Through the program seven such ventures have been launced in the past four years. These markets give mutual opportunities for local small farmers, urban gardeners and the community to enjoy the benefit of healthy sustainable produce.

Growers and market vendors interested in participating in the Tuesday Farmers Market or other sustainable development efforts should contact Dr. Jennifer Taylor, Coordinator, FAMU Statewide Small Farm Program - Office 850-412-5260 or Email: Jennifer.Taylor@famu.edu.

FAMU Student to Intern with Army Corps of Engineers

2009-05-07T11:47:00.001-07:00

Daniel Francois, a graduate in the Spring Class of 2009 from the Florida A&M University College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, received his baccalaureate degree in electronic engineering technology on May 3. With much excitement, Francois announced at the Spring Graduates Reception that he will soon begin a two-year internship with the Army Corps of Engineers in Wiesbaden, Germany. He stated that he was in the right place at the right time when he attended the Black Engineers of the Year Award Conference in February (Baltimore, MD) when the Army Corps of Engineers was seeking prospective graduates for internships after graduation. He was selected for this special opportunity at that time.

The internship will provide participants with extensive hands-on experience in architecture and construction, mechanical and electrical engineering. Upon successfully completing the internship, he will be offered a civilian position with the Army Corp of Engineers in either the European Division or the United States.

Reflection on his experience at FAMU in CESTA, Francois remembered that his classmate recruited him to enroll in the college. During his collegiate career, he appreciated the training he received at FAMU. "I was very impressed by the faculty, especially Professor Leon Prosper who, in Francois' opinion, thoroughly prepared his students for the professional world through his course requirements that included weekly presentations. Already planning for his future, Francois endeavors to continue his education to earn his doctorate degree. He feels that the engineering field offers immeasurable opportunities to young people who seek to build a rewarding. In the next ten years, Francois would like to have earned his master's degree and working toward earning his doctorate degree. A young man of big dreams, Francois anticipates thoroughly experiencing the engineering profession and maybe later teaching and/or coaching. Congratulations to Daniel on his accomplishments.

Caption: Dr. Carolyn Collins, former President of the FAMU National Alumni Association and CESTA alumna; Daniel Francois, FAMU Electronic Engineering Technology graduate; and Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director, FAMU-CESTA at the Spring Graduates Reception (May 2, 2009)

FAMU CESTA Outreach Event

2009-05-06T14:24:00.001-07:00

3^rd Annual

Mayhaw Harvest Farm Day Celebration

The FAMU Statewide Small Farm Program and the Golden Acres Ranch will co-sponsor the 3^rd Annual Mayhaw Harvest Farm Day, Saturday, May 9, 2009 from 9:30 am to 3:30 p.m. in Monticello, Florida. The unique flavor of the mayhaw fruit will be featured through cooking classes and local vendors. The schedule of events includes the following:

*Mayhaw Jam/Jelly-Making Classes

*Locally grown and organic agricultural products

-Fresh Mayhaw Berries – Golden Acres Farms

-Melons, peas, beans, and other produce – Barnhart Farms

-Goat and Lamb tasting

-Hot & Mild Sausage- Johnston's BBQ

-Fresh Eggs

*Handmade arts and crafts

-Gerry & Carmen Zengel- Adartes Studio -- Hiking/Walking Sticks

-Metal Embossed Wood depictions & Wood Carvings

-Marcelo Vasquez - Bamboo items: Jewelry Boxes, Kitchen Utensils, Trays, Wind Chimes, Incense Holders and Flutes

*Fun for all ages

-Enjoy hayrides

-Petting area with lamb and kids

-Range-free chickens

Come be part of this natural and organic agriculture learning event hosted by Golden Acres Ranch, LLC – Bobbie & Fred Golden and FAMU StateWide Small Farm Programs/Cooperative Extension Service, Dr. Jennifer Taylor, Coordinator; email: Jennifer.Taylor@famu.edu

Location: GOLDEN ACRES RANCH, LLC / 704 BARNES ROAD, MONTICELLO, FL 32344. Visit www.goldenacresranchflorida.com or see below for directions.

Golden Acres Ranch is located in the panhandle of Florida, east of Tallahassee and north of a small town called Monticello just off US-19. We are only 4 miles from the Georgia border and about 19 miles south of Thomasville, GA.

From Tallahassee, travel east on I-10 to US-19 (Exit 225). Drive north, through the town of Monticello, which is about 5 miles from I-10. Once you are through the roundabout, continue on up 4.4 miles to Barnes Road. You'll see a white concrete monument sign with black letters off the road to the right (on the east side).

Turn right (east) on Barnes Road, it's the only way you can turn. Travel 0.7 mile until you see our mailbox and Pet Boarding sign.

Our driveway is about 0.3 mile of winding, scenic dirt road and there is an automatic gate, so you'll have to push the button.

We look forward to seeing you.

FAMU Scientist Participates in WHOPES Study

2009-04-15T10:16:00.001-07:00

Dr. Jane Barber, research leader for the Adulticide Application and Evaluation Section, of the John Mulrennan Public Health Entomology Research and Education Center in Panama City was invited to serve as a temporary advisor to the United Nations World Health Organization. Dr. Barber has been working with the World Health Organization Pesticide Evaluation Scheme for the past year now to develop guidelines for "Efficacy Testing of Insecticides for Indoor and Outdoor Ground Applied Space Spray Applications."

The purpose of the draft document is to provide specific and standardized procedures and criteria for efficacy testing and the evaluation of the named products. Its aim is to harmonize the testing procedures used by laboratories and institutions throughout the world to generate data for registration and labelling of such products by national authorities. This collaboration with the world's leading authority on health and wellbeing is an honour for the University. The guidelines are in the editorial stage and will be available in the near future from http://www.who.int/whopes/guidelines/en/.

The ultimate goal is to make FAMU an official collaborating Center of the WHO, a mark of distinction received by currently only five centres in the world. Where work is required, funds are provided so it will be financially beneficial to the university while students and interns will be able to collaborate on WHO requested research.

The J. Mulrennan Public Health Entomology Research and Education Center is housed in the College of Engineering Sciences Technology and Agriculture (CESTA) at Florida A&M University.
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Photo Caption: Dr. Jane Barber, (seventh from the left) with the WHOPES participants
In Geneva, Switzerland, February 27, 2009. Left to right--. Latham (Manatee County Mosquito Control District), Dr. Hill (London School of tropical Hygiene and Medicine), Dr. Corbel (Centerde Recherches Entomolgiques de Cotonou), Dr. Jaal (University Sans Malaysia), Dr. Nathan (Consultant WHO), Dr. Bernier (USDA ARS CMAVE), Mr. Lagneau (EID Mediterranean), Dr. Altman (Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation), Dr. Barnard (USDA ARS CMAVE) Dr. Dame (Consultant UF), Dr. Clark (USDA ARS CMAVE), Dr Barber (Florida A&M University, CESTA, PHEREC, AAES), Dr Miller (University of Technology Australia) Dr. Ziam (WHOPES lead Scientist), Dr. Yadav (WHOPES scientist) Prof. Matthews (Imperial College of Science Technology and Medicine), Dr. Velayudhan (WHOPES scientist), Mr. Sweeny (US Environmental Protection Agency), Dr. Mordue Luntz (University of Aberdeen) Dr. Lee Han Lim (Institute for Medical Research Kuala Lumpur).

NROTC Commissioning Ceremony

2009-04-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps
Cordially invites you to attend the
Spring 2009 Commissioning Ceremony for

Second Lieutenant Martin Kuhnle
Ensign Gustavo Aguilar
Ensign Lauren Ellison
Ensign Angela Idleburgh
Ensign Eric James
Ensign Timothy Kirsch
Ensign Charles Manchion

Time: 10:00 am

Date: Friday, May 1, 2009

Location: The State of Florida Capital Courtyard
Tallahassee, Florida

Speaker: Brigadier General Dave Reist, USMC.
***********************************************

For more information, contact:
LT Al “Judge” Toney, USN
FAMU NROTC
Assistant Professor of Naval Science
Academic Advisor/Public Affairs
Tel: (850) 599-8412
FAX: (850) 561-2517

FAMU Faculty Selected as Fulbright Scholar for 2nd Time

2009-04-14T10:34:00.001-07:00

Ralph Wills Flowers, Ph.D., professor and research scientist in the Florida A&M University College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, has been selected as a Fulbright scholar grantee to Ecuador by the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FSB). As a Fulbright grantee, Flowers will join the ranks of approximately 300,000 distinguished participants in this program, which is made possible through annual funding from the U.S. Congress, partnering countries and the private sector.

“This is a great honor,” remarked Flowers, whose faculty research is international in scope. His employment with the FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture began in 1975 as a member of the faculty in the entomology program. “I came on board on the Ephemeroptera research team working with the late Dr. William L. Peters, former program leader of FAMU’s entomology program.”

Currently, Flowers is an accomplished research scientist in the FAMU Center for Biological Control. Since 1999, Flowers has worked in western Ecuador through a partnership between FAMU and Virginia Tech in the IPM-CRSP and SANREM-CRSP programs. “Dr. Flowers has made a valuable contribution to international agricultural research, and I was pleased to support his Fulbright application,” states Harriett Paul, Director, Office of International Agriculture Programs (FAMU-CESTA).

As a Fulbright scholar, Flowers will be working in western Ecuador on the faculty at the Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, a small agricultural university. He will teach two classes on the advanced undergraduate level: Water Quality Bio-monitoring and Insect Biosystematics.

Throughout his 33-year tenure at FAMU, Flowers has made numerous accomplishments and is widely recognized for outstanding service in his area of expertise. This is the second time that Flowers has been selected as a Fulbright scholar. The first honor was received in 2002-2003, when Flowers spent time teaching and conducting research in Costa Rica.

Makola Abdullah, Ph.D., Dean and Director, Land-Grant Programs, stated, “Being selected twice for the very prestigious Fulbright scholarship firmly attests to Dr. Flowers’ record of excellence in international studies and research. The College is proud of the accomplishments he has made in higher education through his work in South America.”

For more information, contact Dr. Ralph Flowers, FAMU Center for Biological Control; Telephone: 850-561-2215; Email: rflowers7@earthlink.net.

A Taste of FAMU Flava at Florida Wine Festival

2009-03-13T14:51:00.000-07:00

The FAMU Center for Viticulture Science and Small Fruit Research will participate in this year's annual Florida Wine Festival.

Visit online for more information
www.thefloridawinefestival.com

Engineering Technology Alumni Industry Day - March 25-27, 2009

2009-03-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

Click on the SCHEDULE OF EVENTS for larger view.

Agriculture Adventures Day

2009-03-04T14:49:00.001-08:00

Tallahassee, FL -- The Florida A&M University Cooperative Extension Program is sponsoring an Agriculture Adventures Day on March 19, 2009, from 9:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Cornerstone Learning Community School, located at 2524 Hartsfield Road in Tallahassee, Florida.

A team of extension specialists at FAMU and the Leon County Extension Office (University of Florida, Institute for Food and Agriculture Sciences) will set up a variety of adventure stations featuring fruits, vegetables, goats, honey bees, horticulture and peanuts for the elementary and middle school students (grades 3- 5) to learn about the exciting world of science and agriculture. A rotational schedule will allow student groups to spend time at each station to receive information and enjoy hands-on interactions through the activities staged for each learning center.

A special highlight of the day will be the goat session where students will be able to learn about different breeds of goats and their usefulness in providing milk, meat and fiber. Presentations will be made on goat care and handling, health care and treatment for parasites. A feeding/petting station will also be set up for students to interact with the goats. A food center will be featured to introduce participants to a variety of products made from goat meat and dairy products including vanilla ice cream and goat cheese.

The purpose of the event it to increase awareness and appreciation of agricultural sciences among school age students that can be further developed into an interest in pursuing an education and careers in agriculture and related disciplines. The coordinator of the activity is Dr. Uford Madden, Assistant Professor and Extension Food Safety Specialist at FAMU; Office: 850-412-5253; Email: uford.madden@famu.edu.

Video on Caring for Goats, click below:

ARD Marketing Campaign - FAMU Land-Grant Highlights

2009-02-27T11:14:00.001-08:00

The Office of CESTA Communication is submitting college highlights, featuring updated information about upcoming major college-wide events and accomplishments of faculty, staff and program development in the Florida A&M University College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, as a part of the Agricultural Research Director's, Inc., on-line land-grant marketing campaign.

CESTA department heads and program leaders are encouraged to submit information pertinent to their respective areas to be reviewed for submission.

For more information, contact: Marian B. Gibbons, Director, Office of CESTA Communications, College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307; Telephone: 850-561-2094; Fax: 850-561-2794; Email: marian.gibbons@famu.edu or mabellgibbs@aol.com.

To visit the ARD web site and learn more about the excellent educational opportunities that are available at Florida A&M University and other 1890 land-grant institutions, visit www.umes.edu/ard.

Grant Writing Workshop

2009-02-24T07:16:00.001-08:00

This comes as a friendly reminder to CESTA faculty, staff and graduate students to attend the SARE Grant Writing Workshop today from 12:00 - 5:oo p.m.

GOAT PRODUCTION SEMINAR UPCOMING

2009-02-20T06:55:00.001-08:00

On March 14, 2009, Florida A&M University will be co-hosting a Goat Seminar in Jasper, Florida, with the Southeastern Small Farmer's Network and the University of Florida from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. EST. The seminar will be held at the Hamilton County Extension Office located in Jasper, Florida on 1142 US-41 NW. Presentations will address a variety of topics including production, financial and legal risks for small ruminant producers, herd health management, nutrition and pasture management, reproduction and breeding and marketing.

This event is free to the public. Lunch will be provided. Agricultural professionals and goat/sheep producers are encouraged to attend. The USDA/CSREES is the sponsor for the event. For directions and other information, please contact: Ms. Quondra Browning, Program Assistant, at FAMU Research Center (Quincy) at 850-875-8555; Ms. Norma Tillman (Jasper) – 386-303-1361; or Mr. Allen Tyree (Extension Agent – Hamilton County) 386-792-1276.

FAMU Scholar to Study in Vienna

2009-02-13T14:45:00.000-08:00

The Florida A&M University Office of International Agriculture Programs (OIAP) awarded a $4,000 scholarship to Joshua Green to participate in an European-USA Student Exchange program entitled, “A Study in Vienna.” Green is a junior, majoring in International Agriculture and Business in the FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA). As part of this program, Green will study at the University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU) in Vienna, Austria, for one semester beginning February 5- June 1, 2009. He will also participate in cultural and language programs and a supervised internship under the leadership of Rainer Haas, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Institute of Marketing and Innovation at the University of BOKU.

A native of Redlands, California, Green is a member of the FAMU Marching 100 Band. He states, “I really welcome this opportunity to study in Vienna. The program at the University of BOKU is outstanding. I hope to be able to further develop my interest in organic farming, as well as the rich musical culture of Vienna.”
The “Study in Vienna” program builds on the European partnership and institutional relationship developed under a grant funded by the U.S. Department of Education Fund for the Improvement of Post Secondary Education (FIPSE) entitled, “Comparing EU & US Biotechnology, Food Safety, International Trade & Regulatory Policies.” The international exchange, teaching and research program, under the FIPSE grant (2004-2008), supported the development of a new joint international course, the Global Seminar AGG 4420 001 4368, semester study in Europe for seven CESTA students, three CESTA faculty exchanges to Europe for teaching and research, five EU students studying at FAMU for a semester, and four EU faculty exchanges to FAMU CESTA for teaching and research.

Applicants for the Study in Vienna Program for 2010 must meet the following criteria: a.) be a full-time undergraduate or graduate student majoring in agricultural sciences; b.) have a minimum GPA of 3.0; c.) graduate after Summer, 2010; and d.) write a 250-word essay on, “Why an international educational exchange experience to Europe would be beneficial to my academic and career goals and objectives.”

For more information, please contact Ms. Harriett A. Paul, Director, FAMU-CESTA Office of International Agricultural Programs, 204 South Perry Paige Building, (850) 599-8867.

Dr. Kairo presents at Board of Governors' Meeting

2009-02-04T18:18:00.000-08:00

Moses T. Kairo, Ph.D., Director, FAMU-CESTA Center for Biological Control, was a presentor at the Florida Board of Governors' Meeting on Thursday, January 29, 2009. The presentation was entitled

"Bio-Security Challenges Posed by Invasive Species." Information presented highlighted critical threats to biosecurity by invasive species of plants and insects and the billion dollar economic impacts caused by the same. Research conducted by the Center includes studies for prevention measures, early detection and rapid response and management and recovery.

The Center for Biological Control has established strategic partnerships which capitalize on its competitive strengths to deliver significant outputs through the three areas of the land grant mission – Research, Training and Outreach.

For more information about the presentation and/or the FAMU Center for Biological Control, contact: Dr. Moses Kairo - email: Moses.Kairo@famu.edu.

Register to attend -- 13th Annual Meeting of Southeast Regional Public Health Pest Conference

2009-02-04T13:45:00.001-08:00

Click on forms to enlarge and print out.

Enology Registration Information

2009-02-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

FAMU -CESTA
Center for Viticulture & Small Fruit Research

#1164 Intro Enology/ Wine Appreciation Course
Registration Form

#1164 Intro Enology Course: Thursdays from February 26-April 30
• Time: 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Enrollment Fees ● The costs for the field trip are included.

* Public: $255.00

* FAMU faculty/staff: $ 205.00

* Students: $ 165.00

Deadline: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 because of limited seating (max 20)

Send the Registration Form and Enrolment Fee (check or money order payable to Florida A& M University) to:

Division of Continuing Education
Florida A&M University
635 Gamble Street
Tallahassee, FL 32307
Attention: Ms. Margaret Whitaker
Phone-850.599.3474
Fax-850.561.2464

Name______________________________________________________

Address____________________________________________________

Telephone ___________________________

E-mail______________________________

Method of Payment:_______Check _____Money Order

FAMU offers Intro Enology / Wine Appreciation Course

2009-02-04T12:54:00.000-08:00

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The Florida A&M University Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research is offering the very popular enrichment course entitled, “Intro Enology/ Art and Science of Wine Appreciation” from February 24 – April 30, 2009.

This is a structured course of study, designed to introduce the participants to enology (the science dealing with winemaking and wine understanding) and in the art of “knowing wine “as related to human tradition and culture. The course is open to the public, for ages 21 and older. Also, this is as an outreach and extension activity of the Center for Viticulture Science and Small Fruit Research, which is a research component in the FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture.

Classes for the 10-week course will take place on every Thursday, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the FAMU/CESTA Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research, located at 6505 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32317. Each class will consist of two 45-minute sessions with 10 minute breaks. Instruction for the sessions includes a combination of lecture, video presentation and 30-minute wine tasting and evaluation discussion. Completion requirements include a final examination, a field trip to one of Florida’s leading wineries and a discussion of the different wines sampled during the visit.

Participants who successfully complete 70% of the course requirements (lectures, discussion forums, field trip and final examination) will graduate with the certificate of completion and two credit units from the University Extension Program.

The enrollment fees for the course include the cost for the field trip to the winery. Following are the fee categories: a) Public - $255.00/ person b) FAMU faculty/staff: $205/person and Students - $165/person. The enrollment deadline is February 24, 2009, as seating is limited to 20 students.

To register or for more information, please contact Dr. Violetka Colova, FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research, Telephone: 850-599-3996 or email: Violetka.Colova@famu.edu.

SARE News

2009-02-04T08:12:00.000-08:00

GRANT-WRITING WORKSHOP

The FAMU Cooperative Extension Program will sponsor a SARE grant writing workshop on February 24, 2009 in the Perry Paige Auditorium (Florida A&M University). Mr. James Hill, 1890 SARE Coordinator will be the workshop facilitator. Graduate students and faculty are the target audience to attend the workshop. Lunch will be served at 12:00 noon and the workshop will begin at 1:00 p.m. For more information, please contact Dr. Cassel Gardner at 850-561-2546. or cassel.gardner@famu.edu.

*******************************************************************************

CHANGES TO SARE GRANTS PROGRAM

The Southern Sustainable Research and Education (SARE) Grants Program will introduce changes in 2009 to help applicants focus on whole systems research. Starting with the 2010 Call For Pre-Proposals to be released in March, 2009, applicants must propose research that fits one of three grant categories:

Production research—Focused on actual production methods, this kind of research has made up the bulk of SARE’s project portfolio in the past and has developed techniques that have become common tools for farmers.

Postharvest/food systems research—These projects examine what happens past the farm gate such as in the markets, distribution systems and policy making. This category can serve as a funding path for social science researchers to also make a difference in our farm and food systems.

A combination of production and postharvest/food systems research—The ultimate in systems research would connect what goes on in the ground with everything that happens after a crop is harvested, including adding value, marketing, infrastructure for processing and transportation, as well as policy making.

Research and Education grants award up to $300,000 for up to 3 years of project activities.

For researchers who are not yet ready to submit a full systems proposal, Southern SARE will offer two entry-level funding opportunities with the release of calls for proposals later in the year for Research and Education Planning Grants to bring together interdisciplinary, multi-institutional teams to define a project scope, establish goals and objectives perform literature reviews across disciplines and do other tasks necessary for developing a systems research pre-proposal. These grants will award up to $20,000 for one year’s planning activities. Pre-proposals will be not required.

Research and Education Preliminary Grants to conduct necessary research that would feed into the interdisciplinary team’s objectives. It is likely that such a missing link would be discovered during the literature review of a Research and Education Planning Project. These grants will award up to $50,000 for up to 2 years of project activities. Pre-proposals will be not required.

This announcement serves to alert potential applicants of the upcoming changes and additional grant opportunities. Specific details of each grant will be in the respective calls for proposals. To find out how these changes fit into Southern SARE’s overall funding strategy for the future, see the document Advancing Sustainable Agriculture at www.southernsare.org.

CESTA initiates Youth Initiative Planning

2009-01-29T07:08:00.000-08:00

“In Search of the Next George Washington Carver”

On January 27-29, 2009, the FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture hosted a collaborative meeting for representatives from 1890 grant institutions to develop an important youth development project to enhance recruitment of minority students in the diverse careers related to agricultural sciences. The meeting was held at the Center for Viticulture & Small Fruit Research located at 6505 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, Florida 32317.
Entitled, “In Search of the Next George Washington Carver,” the project is a comprehensive youth development initiative proposal for the 1890 System. Dr. Bobby R. Phills, Director for Small Fruit Research & Outreach Program, is the contact person for this activity. Office 850-599-8685; Email: bobby.phills@famu.edu or bobby@phills.net.

CESTA Faculty co-author in Thurgood Marshall Book

2009-01-29T06:55:00.000-08:00

BASE Professor co-authors new book published
by Thurgood Marshall College Fund

by Marian Gibbons, Director, CESTA Communications

Tallahassee, Florida— Charles Magee, Ph.D., FAMU Professor, Biological and Agricultural Systems Engineering (BASE) program, is a co-author of a new book published by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and entitled “Models for Success: Successful Academic Models for Increasing the Pipeline of Blacks and Hispanics Students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Areas.”
The book highlights successful STEM programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUS). The BASE program in the Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA) has been identified by the TMCF as a successful STEM program.

Magee is the author of Chapter 5 of the book, which is entitled, "Biological and Agricultural Systems Engineering (BASE): A Success in STEM at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU)." The chapter includes statistical data that supports the need for developing a pipeline to help increase minority representation in STEM areas, as well as an in-depth perspective of the history and implementation of the biological and agricultural systems engineering program at Florida A&M University.

"This recognition is very significant for our BASE program, as it will help us attract more students, especially among minorities, to train for STEM professions that offer tremendous opportunities for young people to excel in life," said Makola Abdullah, Ph.D., Dean and Director of Land-Grant Programs, FAMU College of Engineering Sciences Technology and Agriculture. "Being identified in this book as a "model of success" in STEM is a testament to the excellence of the BASE program and the commitment of Dr. Magee, the faculty and our staff."

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund selected FAMU’s BASE program because during its short 13-year history, two Ph.D. graduates have been produced in biological engineering and molecular biology, and there are five BASE graduates presently pursuing PhDs in STEM fields. The program began at FAMU in 1996. Since May 2000, thirty eight (38) students have graduated from the BASE program. Out of the 38, eighteen (47.4%) have gone to graduate school at 14 different universities.

Magee’s own story is one of a STEM professional. A 1970 graduate of Alcorn State University majoring in general agriculture (animal science), Magee earned the master of science in agricultural engineering from the University of Minnesota (1973) and his Ph.D. in agricultural and biological engineering from Cornell university in 1980. He was the third African American to receive a doctorate degree in this field. During his career, Magee has received recognition for significant "firsts" including being the first African American hired as an assistant professor in the College of Agriculture at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville; and he received the first United States patent in the history of the Fort Valley State University (FVSU).

The TMCF publication will be shared with libraries and directors of STEM programs at other universities. Through this academic network, it is anticipated that more BASE graduates will be recruited by universities for graduate study in STEM fields.

For more information, contact Charles Magee, Ph.D., 307 N. Perry-Paige Building, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307. Telephone: 850-412-5594; Fax 850-599-8586; Email: Charles.Magee@famu.edu.

Small Farm BioFuel Project featured in Small Farm Digest

2009-01-29T06:47:00.000-08:00

The FAMU Whole-Farm Sustainable Biofuels
Research and Demonstration Project

Written by Jennifer Taylor, Ph.D., FAMU Small Farm Programs

(Excerpt from Small Farm Digest, December 2008)

Biofuels from plant and vegetable oils are an important part of the energy mix for alternative sustainable energy sources of the future. Producing biofuels from agricultural crops grown by farmers is one way to reduce dependency on fossil fuel. On-farm production and processing of oilseed plants contribute to a less toxic environment and environment-friendly biofuels, and value-added food grade vegetable oil. A sustainable production of biofuels from agricultural crops is important for the country, energy stability, and the protection of its citizens’ public health and environment.

In an effort to steer small farmers and rural and urban communities toward a thriving sustainable development, Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) State Wide Small Farm Programs, in collaboration with Crescent Moon Organic Farm, ATTRA/National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), and Piedmont Biofuels, has held several capacity building hands-on workshops on alternative sustainable energy—biodiesel fuel/using vegetable oil as an alternative fuel. Our first capacity-building workshop was held in December, 2006, where participants learned how to make clean-burning biodiesel fuel and how to build a biodiesel processor.

A successful small farm sustainable biofuels model

The 2006 pilot project equipped innovative farmers and owners of Crescent Moon Organic Farm with a biodiesel processor the and knowledge and skill to make biodiesel fuel—which they now use to power on-farm tractors, backhoes, farm equipment, and trucks. Eight capacity-building hands-on training workshops have been held to date, with nearly 300 people participating. The 1-to 2-day workshops provide participatory education and hands-on training for the community and farming populations, and sessions cover beginning through advanced biofuels/biodiesel levels. Our whole-farm sustainable biofuels model provides a demonstration of what can be done to impact lives today and glimpse into the future. Our most recent intermediate biofuels capacity-building sessions took place October 14, 2008, at the FAMU Whole-Farm Sustainable Biofuels Research and Demonstration Farm.

On October 30, 2008, Atlanta’s Pearl Academy Agriculture and Environmental Center (elementary–middle school) participated in a day of hands-on learning about alternative biofuels and sustainable biodiesel production and a successful small farm tour.

The FAMU Whole-Farm Sustainable Biofuels Research and Demonstration Project was developed to implement an on-farm learning model for sustainable renewable biofuels production and energy.

The Whole-Farm Sustainable Biofuels Demonstration Project, located in Wakulla County at Crescent Moon Organic Farms in Sopchoppy, Florida, produces bioenergy from used vegetable oil (from restaurants). The next goal is production of biofuels from oilseed crops, which are harvested, pressed, and converted on-farm to produce sustainable renewable biofuels and electricity.

Sustainable renewable biofuels will power the entire farm including equipment, tractors, trucks, and farm house electrical utilities. Crescent Moon Organic Farm is a FAMU partner farm that provides organically grown vegetables and fruit to local markets and several gourmet restaurants. Collaborators for this sustainable development project included FAMU StateWide Small Farm Programs/Cooperative Extension Program, Crescent Moon Organic Farms, ATTRA/NCAT, USDA’s Agricultural Research Service Sustainable Agricultural Systems Laboratory, and FAMU’s College of Engineering Sciences, Technology, and Agriculture.

For additional information about this and other sustainable development efforts, contact: Jennifer.Taylor@famu.edu / 850-412-5260.

Photograph: Dr. Jennifer Taylor (right) with farm workers at the Crescent Moon Organic Farm. Taken by Marian Gibbons, CESTA Communications.

CESTA Civil Engineering Student Attends Transportation Stimulus Summit

2009-01-21T15:53:00.000-08:00

TALLAHASSEE, FL – FAMU Civil Engineering Technology student Tomikel Curtis is a 20 year old sophomore from Riverview, Florida. Last week Tomikel attended a Senate Transportation Stimulus meeting in the Senate Office building sponsored by Senate Transportation and Appropriations Committee Vice Chairman Senator Tony Hill (D) Jacksonville.
A group of Black business leaders met for more than two hours with Senator Tony Hill of Jacksonville and Florida Secretary of Transportation Stephanie Kopelousos and her senior staff members to discuss President-elect Barack Obama’s multibillion-dollar stimulus package and its impact on Florida’s Black-owned businesses.

Florida Department of Transportation says Black-owned businesses will share in the estimated $7 billion to $8 billion soon coming to Florida from the Obama economic stimulus money. FDOT is ready to roll with construction projects that could be contracted within 120 days of the time it receives word that taxpayer money is coming from the federal government. Obama wants to send the infrastructure money directly to the states in the form of block grants to speed the process.

Transportation planners suggest that for every $1 billion spent on infrastructure construction projects, some 28,000 jobs will be created. The $7 billion in projects on Florida’s list are ones that meet more stringent federal guidelines for environmental permits and right-of-way acquisitions.

Tomikel is a member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) FAMU/FSU student chapter. He attended the workgroup meeting with his father, FAMU alumnus Paul Curtis, president of Curtoom Companies Inc., a defense contractor.
“Students have a big stake in the outcome of this economic stimulus plan,” Curtis said. “If the plan fails or the recovery takes decades, we (young adults) will be the ones who inherit the problem.” Tomikel plans to become a student Intern with FDOT next semester.

Scholarship Alert - Opportunity for Hispanic Students

2009-01-05T05:27:00.000-08:00

The National Organization of Professional Hispanic Natural Resources Conservation Service Employees (NOPHNRCSE) provides scholarships to deserving Hispanic students that wish to pursue or are pursuing a Bachelors degree in a natural resources or a natural resources conservation-related field of study at an accredited four-year institution. At least four scholarships of $1,000 each will be awarded to graduating high school students accepted to an accredited college or university or registered students in their first through third years in an accredited college or university. The deadline for 2009 scholarship applications is February 27, 2009.

For more information please visit the following site.

http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/intranet/hispanic/

Dean Abdullah accepted at FSLI

2008-12-19T11:22:00.000-08:00

Click the information below for readable format.

Roster of CESTA Graduates

2008-12-18T08:58:00.001-08:00

Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director and

The Faculty and Staff of the

FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology & Agriculture

applauds and congratulates the following graduates for

Fall Semester, 2009.

We are proud of your accomplishments and

we look forward to celebrating your success in the future!

The FAMU-CESTA Class of 2008 (December)

BS - Agri-Business

Jabari Lloyd Gayle
Erogies M. Grigley III
Tony Jean
Shawn Demarcus Johnson
Felicia S. Simpson
Clarence Melvin Tolbert

BS - Agriculture Science
Marcitta Lynnette Barrington
Marlesa LaKay Brooks
DeVon Jeanetta DeLoach
Ashley Monique Dixson
Byron P. Franklin, Jr.
Shawanna Lakita Henderson
Keith Leroy Marshall, Jr.
Lacretia Delshawn McNeal
Marsha Angeline Thomas

BS - Biological & Agricultural Systems Engineering
Bethany S. Jones
Dominique Gabrielle Standifer

BS - Civil Engineering Technology
Myrlea Cole
Gregory Dorson
Brandon Ansley Johnson
Alrick Alvin Laing
Jeremiah K. Ofori
Errol George Williams, II

BS - Construction Engineering Technology
Leon Bell, Jr.
Arthur James Christopher Bradley
Adam Benjamin Ely
Charlie Edward Gammage III
Jermaine Remaud Goodman
Ronard Edward Lee Ivey
Carlos J. Martinez

BS - Electrical Engineering Technology
Peterson Alcide
Crawford Phelps Baskin
Ashley Dione Collins
Paris Croom
Guepsan Escarment
Ronald T. Fowler, Jr.
Damon A. Hodge
Patrick Voltaire Thompson

BS - International Agriculture & Business
Kelly Deon Scavella

BS - Landscape Design Management
Bahati Kizuwanda Bodden
Brandon Eugene Brown
Felicia Michelle Cosby
Royce Vansell Davis
Shawn Patrick Dolan
Robert H. Finely, Jr.
Selena Renee McQueen

BS - Ornamental Horticulture

Rueben DeCastro Gomez, Jr.

MS - Agriculural Science

Yvette Sharonee Betty O'Connor

B.S., Lincoln University, 2006

Title of Thesis: "Characterization of Wine Haze Proteins in Muscadine Wines"

Tribute to FAMU Agricultural Leaders at PAWC

2008-12-04T05:14:00.000-08:00

Dr. C. E. Walker

Mr. Edward Scott

Two legendary leaders in agriculture have been designated by Florida A&M University to be honored in memoriam at the 66th session of the Professional Agricultural Workers Conference (PAWC) on December 7 – 9, 2008 at Tuskegee University. Each year the PAWC pays tributes to former agriculture professionals who have served at land-grant institutions. This year Florida A&M University will be recognized for its legacy in producing leaders in agricultural education.

The late Dr. Courtney Emery "C.E." Walker, who served at FAMU from 1948-1976 in the School of Agriculture and Home Economics and in the Office of Sponsored Research, was the first dean of the School of Agriculture established when Fla. A&M College (FAMC) gained university status. He was instrumental in establishing the Perry-Paige building as an academic center and provided leadership in organizing two credit unions for farmers in Jackson County. Also, Walker was a dedicated community advocate credited with developments leading to a land-swap between FAMU and the City of Tallahassee and resulted in the building of the Walker-Ford Recreational Center and Smith Williams Service Center, a 20,000 square foot facility that is named in his honor.

The late Edward Scott, a distinguished alumnus (FAMU Classes of 1941/1956) and an outstanding educator in Madison County, will be recognized for a lifetime of service dedicated to improving the quality of life for rural residents. Scott was an exceptional educator and mentor who influenced countless young men to pursue and obtain college degrees.

Drs. Ray Mobley and Lawrence Carter, Cooperative Extension administrators in the FAMU College of Engineering Science, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA), will be the guest lecturers who present the notable accomplishments of Walker and Scott at the conference. Family representatives, Dr. Deidre Walker Powell, associate professor at FAMU; and Dr. Edward R. Scott, II, Owner, Faith Dental Center and FAMU alumnus, will be presented plagues to commemorate the memories of the two land-grant heroes.

Mrs. Harriet Paul, Director, Office of International Programs (CESTA), also will be making a presentation at the PAWC on FAMU's international education program in Europe. The title of the presentation is, "Transatlantic Mobility - Building Capacity at 1890 Universities: Florida A&M University's Experience."

For more information, contact Dr. Ray Mobley or Dr. Carter, FAMU Cooperative Extension Program, 850-599-3546; Emails: ray.mobley@famu.edu; or Lawrence.carter@famu.edu; and Mrs. Harriet Paul, International Agriculture Programs, 850-599-8867, Email: hapaul585@aol.com.

2008-11-17T12:21:00.000-08:00

Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director, CESTA and Mr. Steve Capelouto, Capelouto Foundation, congratulates Abisoye Somorin, Raphael Abanja, Oulimathe Paraiso, Roida Said, Kevin lewis, and Eutychus Kariuki as recipients of the 2008 Capelouto Foundation Scholarships.

For 32 years, Florida A&M University has sponsored its annual Entomology Field Day and Workshop through the land-grant arm of the university, known today as the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture. On November 5-7, 2008, the two-and-a-half day outreach tradition resumed at the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center to offer another episode of continuing education and re-certification training to workers in the urban pest management industry in Florida and other states in the Southeast. Several participants expressed a common opinion that the outreach event provides the best training in the state for professionals in the pest control industry. The program provides continuing education for pest control professionals with seminars that address issues related to dealing with pests such as beg bugs, termites, lawn insects, and weeds and updates on laws, integrated pest management and control products. Every state requires those certified to handle pesticides to be constantly updated on laws and issues but what qualifies as training varies by state. This year standards for 12 states had to be met.

Other topics of interest covered control strategies for Africanized bees, which are now found in Florida; three sessions on disaster preparation and management from the point of view of public health, termites, and small business; and continuing updates on termites and ants.
The event provides the students with multiple benefits, including hands-on experience with professionals, the opportunity to assess their level of comfort with several areas of the discipline in the field of entomology, exposure to practical professional experience in a real-life situation, and useful insights of related professional careers. The continuing education activity also assists the entomology program in the recruitment of undergraduate students through scholarship funding.

The Capelouto Foundation was established in honor of the late Reuben Capelouto, who served as an adjunct professor of Entomology at Florida A&M University from 1970 – 1977 and a part-time associate professor until 1980. The original foundation was established with donations contributed following the passing of Capelouto. Since that time, the Foundation has continued its efforts to support entomology students at FAMU through funds raised at silent auction of door prizes, which has become popular tradition of the Entomology Field Day and Workshop. Approximately $3,000 per year has been raised from the fund-raising effort since 2000.
Since 2002 more than 20 scholarships have been given to fifteen entomology majors at Florida A&M University based on good merit (good grades and a short essay).

For more information contact: Dr. Lambert Kanga, Program Leader, at 850-599-8725; lambert.kanga@famu.edu or Mrs. Janice Peters, 850.599-8725, janice.peters@famu.edu.

Mbuya to Serve with ASA-SSSA-CSSA

2008-11-10T07:54:00.000-08:00

Dr. O. S. Mbuya, associate professor of agricultural sciences in the FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, was elected to serve as the chairperson of the Minority Committee of the American Society of Agronomy-Soil Science Society of America – Crop Science Society of America (ASA-SSSA-CSSA) at its Annual Conference held on October 5-8, 2008 in Houston, Texas. Mbuya is also on the research team in the FAMU Center for Water and Air Quality. He is a co-author of the book, Soil Science: Step-by-Step Field Analysis, published in September, 2008.

The ASA, SSSA, and CSSA are premiere societies devoted to excellence in agronomic crop, soil, and environmental sciences. The societies partner with US land-grant institutions and federal and state agencies to engage faculty and students in scholars activities. They are international in scope and encompass multiple disciplines in agricultural and earth sciences. FAMU faculty and students are encouraged to join. For more information contact Dr. O. S . Mbuya at 850.599.3428 or Odemari.mbuya@famu.edu.

Entomology Scholarships Awarded at Annual Field Day

2008-11-10T07:41:00.000-08:00

Dr. Bill Kern demonstrates proper suiting to use at the Africanized honey bee training.

Photo: (left to right) Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director, CESTA, and Mr. Steve Capelouto, Capelouto Foundation, congratulates Abisoye Somorin, Raphael Abanja, Oulimathe Paraiso, Roida Said, Kevin Lewis, and Eutychus Kariuki, Dr. Lambert Kanga, Dr. Moses Kairo and Dr. Susie Legaspi.

Six FAMU entomology scholars were awarded scholarships by the Capelouto Foundation at the 32nd Annual Field Day and Workshop in Entomology held on November 5-7, 2008. FAMU is known throughout the state for the annual field day which offers the best training available for professionals seeking licensure in pest control. The Foundation gave awards of $250 and $1000 to Abisoye Somorin, Raphael Abanja, Oulimathe Paraiso, Roida Said, Kevin Lewis, and Eutychus Kariuki. For more information contact: Dr. Lambert Kanga, Program Leader or Mrs. Janice Peters, 850.599-8725.

Healthy Living Meat Systems Workshop & Tour

2008-09-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

The StateWide Small Farm Programs at Florida A&M University will kick off the October Capacity Building Workshop Series with the "2008 Local Healthy Living Meat Systems Workshop and Tour" on October 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at White Oaks Pastures, located at 22775 Highway 27, Bluffton, Georgia, 39824. Registration for this event is $10 per person.

The FAMU StateWide Small Farm Program is coordinating the activity in collaboration with Georgia Organics and Slow Food Atlanta. The first workshop will combine an exciting sustainable ranch tour with learning sessions designed for urban communities, schools, ranches, and farming populations. Learning sessions will include the following:
· Healthy benefits of sustainable meats
· Successful methods for establishing sustainable pasture management
· Systems
· Processing
· USDA grades and standards
· Building a local sustainable food system
· Organics
· Tour of White Oaks Pastures

Farmer-facilitators scheduled to guide the discussions include:
· Will Harris, President, White Oak Pastures (GA)
· Bobbie Golden of Golden Acres Goat and Sheep Farm, Monticello, Florida.
· Suzanne Welander, Georgia Organics, along with a representative of the Georgia Department of Agriculture will discuss poultry processing issues and current options in the South.
· Julie Shaffer, Emory University and Atlanta’s Slow Food will address local cuisines and how to build our own sustainable food networks.

The $10 registration fee for the workshop will include a delicious lunch on site. Persons interested in attending should register for the workshop by emailing - Jennifer.Taylor@famu.edu. For more information about other sustainable development sessions, please contact: The StateWide Small Farm Program, Cooperative Extension Program, College of Engineering Sciences, Florida A&M University, 850.412.5260. Dr. Jennifer Taylor, Coordinator.

Travel Directions to White Oak Pastures:
Visit - http://www.whiteoakpastures.com/directions.html
We are 170 miles south of Atlanta (and 80 miles south of Columbus): Take Highway I-85 south to I-185. Take Highway I-185 south to Columbus. Take Highway 27 south through Cusseta, Lumpkin, Cuthbert, & Bluffton. Our Harvest Barn will be on your right.
We are 90 miles north of Tallahassee, FL: Take Highway 27 north through Havana, Bainbridge, Colquitt, & Blakely. Our Harvest Barn will be on your left.
We are 50 miles west of Albany: Take Highway 62 west to Blakely. Take Highway 27 north in Blakely towards Bluffton. Our Harvest Barn will be on your left.
We are 50 miles east of Dothan, AL: Take Highway 52 east to Highway 62 east (at the AL/GA state line). Take Highway 62 east to Highway 27 north in Blakely towards Bluffton. Our Harvest Barn will be on your left.

CESTA SCHOLARS SPOTLIGHT

2008-09-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

Following is a student interview of one of CESTA's student achievers.

Photo: James Campbell, FAMU Freshman BASE major and 2008 USDA Scholar, with Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director, Land-Grant Programs, CESTA/FAMU (Sept. 17, 2008)

Photographer: Marian Gibbons, Director, CESTA Communications.

Interview conducted by Tracie Washington, Student Assistant, CESTA Communications, Office of the Dean; Email: tracie.washington@famu.edu.

WASHINGTON: Why did you choose to attend Florida A&M University, and how do you like the university thus far?
CAMPBELL: To be honest, I really didn’t choose to attend this school. The Rural Development agency selected this school for me. However, so far, Florida A&M University is a really nice place.

WASHINGTON: What things do you feel that FAMU and/or the College of Engineering Sciences Technology and Agriculture need to improve on?
CAMPBELL: Wow! FAMU needs to improve on their financial aid distribution process. Back in Athens, the universities there try to give the students their refund at least by the second week of school. The dining hall needs to have longer hours. Seeing that I live in campus housing, it’s really tough for me to get back on campus in time enough to eat at the dining hall. With CESTA, there is really nothing that I see right now that needs improving. Right now, it’s a really good program from what I see thus far.

WASHINGTON: Why did you choose to participate in the USDA 1890 Scholars Program?
CAMPBELL: The truth is that my mother brought home an application for me to fill out for a scholarship. I filled it out not getting my hopes up about receiving scholarship money. Anyway, on the application there were four schools you had to choose from (FAMU, North Carolina A&T, Fort Valley State, and Tuskegee). North Carolina State denied me admission; Tuskegee never sent responded, Fort Valley State denied me, and FAMU sent something back the next week stating that I qualified as one of the recipients of the scholarship. Two weeks later I got a letter stating that I had won the scholarship at FAMU. I was upset that I got denied by Fort Valley State, because I wanted to attend there with two of my best friends. But, hey… you have to go where the scholarship money is calling.

WASHINGTON: How is it being away from home?
CAMPBELL: It’s really difficult. It’s difficult because all my friends call me telling me about how I should have come home for the weekend to hangout with them. It’s really easy for them seeing that they are only 2-3 hours away from Athens, while I’m 5 hours way from home. But other than that I really just miss Athens.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ABOUT THE USDA 1890 SCHOLARS PROGRAM

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The USDA/1890 National Scholars Program offers scholarships to U.S. citizens who are seeking a bachelor's degree at one of the seventeen 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Institutions and Tuskegee University to study agriculture, food, or natural resource sciences and related majors. The program helps to strengthen the partnership between USDA and the 1890 institutions; helps to increase the number of students studying agriculture and related disciplines; and offers career opportunities at USDA.

National Scholars are required to study in the following or related disciplines:

Agriculture; Agricultural Business/Management; Agricultural Economics; Agricultural Engineering/Mechanics, Agricultural Production and Technology; Agronomy or Crop Science; Animal Sciences; Botany; Farm and Range Management; Fish, Game, or Wildlife Management; Food Sciences/Technology; Forestry and Related Sciences; Home Economics/Nutrition/Human Development; Horticulture; Natural Resources Management; Soil Conservation/Soil Science; and other related disciplines, (e.g., biological sciences, pre-veterinary medicine, computer science).

Thirty-six or more scholarships are awarded annually. At least 2 awards will be made to students at each of the seventeen 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Institutions. Each award provides annual tuition, employment, employee benefits, use of a laptop computer, printer, and software while on scholarship, fees (lab and activity), books, and room & board for each of the 4 academic years. Each annual scholarship renewal is contingent upon satisfactory performance and normal progress toward the bachelor's degree. Upon completion of the scholar's academic degree program, there is an obligation of 1 year of service to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for each year of financial support.

For more information about applying for this scholarship, please visit the website:

http://www.ascr.usda.gov/1890programs.html.

For information about the 1890 National Scholars Program at Florida A&M University, contact Cynthia Portalatin, USDA Liaison Officer at 850-599-2191.

Email: cynthia.portalatin@famu.edu.

Public Speaking Workshop

2008-09-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

GRAPE HARVEST OPPORTUNITY

2008-09-05T20:43:00.000-07:00

To Grape Lovers in the Tallahassee community:

Because of an abundant muscadine and bunch grape crop this year and the need to clean the vines and prepare for next year’s crop, we are providing an opportunity for you and your friends to come out and harvest from selected areas in the FAMU Vineyard. The tropical storm “FAY” brought with it a significant amount of rain and this has caused them to ripen very fast in the high heat that followed.

If you are interested in harvesting some grapes, please call the Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research (Ms. Harper) at 850-599-3996 to arrange a time to come by and pick grapes. Please bring your own containers. We will NOT provide any bags or other containers.!!!

Bobby R. Phills, PhD, Director
Small Fruit Research & Outreach Program
Center for Viticulture & Small Fruit Research
College of Engineering Sciences, Technology & Agriculture
Florida A&M University
6505 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32317
Email: bobby.phills@famu.edu or bobby@phills.net
Ph: 850-599-8685
Cell: 850-528-4616

Recognizing the Importance of Maintaining a Proper Balance

Herbal Garden Tour and Workshop

2008-07-23T22:25:00.000-07:00

Trevor Hylton, Extension Specialist, FAMU Cooperative Extension Program, hosted the first on-campus Herbal Garden Tour and Workshop on Wednesday, July 23, 2008. He drew a nice lunch-break group interested in learning about herbs and their uses and how to grow personal containerized herbal gardens. The activity was informative, interactive and enjoyable. Great Job, Trevor.

Dr. Jennifer Taylor, Coordinator, Small Farm Programs, FAMU Cooperative Extension Program worked with Hylton at the workshop. Look for more related events in the future. For more information about growing herb gardens, contact Trevor Hylton at 850-599-3546, or email: trevor.hylton@famu.edu

Muscadine Movie

2008-07-22T21:31:00.000-07:00

Florida A&M University conducts significant research on the muscadine grape to discover ways to improve the quality of this fruit that is native to the North Florida region. The research is conducted through the activities of the FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research, which is located on Mahan Drive - Hwy 90, in Tallahassee, Florida.

To learn more about the muscadine grape view the video presentation about the history of this grape variety and its impact on Florida culture. Prepared by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Dean in Executive Lock-up!!

2008-07-15T20:43:00.000-07:00

CESTA Dean volunteers time for charity at the MDA Telethon Executive Lock-up - July 10, 2008 AMANDA NALLEY/Democrat
Makola Abdullah, dean of FAMU's College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, makes calls for MDA.

Click on site below.

http://www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=CD&Date=20080710&Category=NEWS03&ArtNo=807100802&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=16

A New Dimension for Growers' Markets

2008-07-08T04:38:00.000-07:00

Local vendors sell fresh produce, flowers and value-added products at the Grower's Market at Lake Ella, located in Tallahassee, Florida.

The FAMU-CESTA Growers’ Markets, developed and implemented by the Statewide Small Farm Programs in the FAMU Cooperative Extension Program, is being featured in a 5-minute segment with "Dimensions," a new local program on WFSU-TV/National Public Television and 4FSU channels.

"Dimensions" is a half-hour program dedicated to letting viewers know about events and activities they can participate in around the Big Bend Area. Two new programs are produced each month.

The FAMU Growers’ Markets were included in this month's program to focus on sustainable development. The first show premiered June 25, 2008 on WFSU-TV. The Growers’ Markets have been featured on eight dates ranging from June 25 through July 06. The next date will be Wednesday, July 9, 2008 at 6:00 pm EST on 4FSU/Comcast Channel 4. Tune in for new growth!

For more information, contact Dr. Jennifer Taylor, Coordinator, Statewide Small Farm Program, at 850-412-5260 or email: Jennifer.Taylor@famu.edu.

CESTA Announcement - Herbal Garden Tour

2008-07-07T07:28:00.000-07:00

Mbuya Among Top Three Candidates for Asst.V.P. Position

2008-07-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

Dr. O. S. Mbuya, Associate Professor in CESTA has been selected as one of the top three candidates to be interviewed for the position of Assistant Vice President for International Education and Development at Florida A&M University.

Mbuya's interview will be held in Rm 113 Tucker Hall at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2002.

Dr. Mbuya has an excellent scholarship record at FAMU including: 1) publishing in the Journal of Environmental Quality, Bioremediation Journal, Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science, HortScience, European Journal of Scientific Research, International Journal of Molecular Medicine, Journal of Alabama Academy of Science, Journal of Environmental Monitoring and Restoration, and Tunisian Scientific Magazine;

2) Co-authored two book chapters;

3) Serving in 16 M.S. and Ph.D. theses/dissertations;

4) Written more than 40 research/teaching grants andreceived several research and teaching awards.

While at FAMU, Dr. Mbugya has served on the following committees: 1) Intellectual Property Committee, Biomedical Research Committee, International Advisory Committee on Safe Water, Distant Learning Committee and Technology Committee.

A native of Tanzania, Dr. Mbuya is known for his stand on academic excellence, with a great sense of humor.

The CESTA family is invited to attend the interview as it is open to the public. Contact: odemari.mbuya@famu.edu.

CESTA's Fallen Rattler - Lola Stewart

2008-06-27T20:21:00.000-07:00

Homegoing Services for CESTA Distinguished Alumna - Lola Stewart

Lola Stewart (center) with the CESTA Gallery of Distinction honorees/ alumni -- the late Vernal Taylor, Ronald Beasley, Fabiola Gaines and J. Alexander. (20002)

Lola Stewart proudly admires the Gallery of Distinction which includes FAMU-CESTA graduates who have made notable contributions to society, the university and their professions.

CESTA administrators, faculty and staff are encouraged to express our sincere condolences on to the Stewart family on the passing of their loved one, Ms. Lola Stewart.

===================================================================

OBITUARY - Tallahassee Democrat Newspaper --- www.tdo.com

Stewart, Lola Jones

View/Sign Guest Book
Lola Jones Stewart Lola Jones Stewart, 89, retired instructor and dietitian, died quietly at her home in Tallahassee Thursday, June 19, 2008. Funeral services will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, Tallahassee, with interment at Greenwood Cemetery. The Omega service of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, of which she had been a member for more than 60 years, will be at 5:30 p.m. Friday, June 27, at Strong & Jones Funeral Home (850-224-2139). Friends of the family are invited to visit them immediately after this service at the family hour from 6 to 7 in the evening.

Mrs. Stewart, born in Junction City, Arkansas, October 30, 1918, was the first of seven children born to Richard and Pearlie Payne Jones. As an infant, she moved with her family to Bernice, Louisiana, which still is the home base for the Jones and Payne families. She was educated in the elementary and high schools of New Land, Bernice and Farmersville, Louisiana. She attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, La., where she met and became the foster daughter of the family of the late Dr. William H. Gray Sr. It was because of her relationship with this family that Lola left Southern and accompanied the Grays to Philadelphia, where she worked as a caretaker of the children, little Herbert - now Congressman Bill Gray - and his sister, Billy Ann, while the Grays received their advanced degrees, Dr. Gray the Ph.D. and Mrs. Gray the M.S. Following this experience in Pennsylvania, Lola accompanied the Grays to Florida Normal in St. Augustine and then to Famcee, where he was president. Lola completed her college education in 1945, receiving her B.S. in Home Economics. She later received her M.S. in Education at FAMU. Further study was completed at the University of California in Berkley. Upon her graduation in 1945, she was appointed dietitian for the old Florida A&M Hospital. Upon completion of the new building, Mrs. Stewart served as dietitian until 1958. With a newly earned M.S. degree and as a registered dietitian, she was hired in the School of Nursing by Dean Eunice Burgess to teach nutrition and diet therapy. Mrs. Stewart's last professional assignment was teaching nutrition in the College of Engineering Science, Technology and Agriculture. She was later enshrined in the Gallery of Distinction of this college. As a second vocation, Mrs. Stewart was a meticulous seamstress, sewing for her family and friends. She worked many evenings in alterations for Gibbs French Shop and later at Gayfer's Department Store. With the decline in health of her parents, Mrs. Stewart retired in 1981 to care for them in Oakland, California. After the death of her parents, she returned to Tallahassee in 1993, where she remained until her death. As a young woman she was married to Curtis Turner. Of this union there was one son, Elijah. Many years later, after graduating from Florida A&M University, she met and married Harry McCant Stewart. We all remember Harry as the happy pianist who played for all of our parties. To this union one daughter, Harriette Vernita, was born. Harry died while Harriette was attending Mills College in Oakland, Calif., where she lived until returning to Tallahassee in 1991. Lola was a good Christian - reared and serving in New Land Baptist Church in Louisiana. She returned the first Sunday in August for many years to participate in the New Land Community and Church Homecoming. In Oakland, she served in numerous capacities in the Good Shepard Baptist Church. In Tallahassee, she has been a dedicated member of Bethel Baptist Missionary Baptist Church for many years before and after her life in California. Many of Bethel's members can recall her regular attendance at the early morning service and her dedication to the women of the church. While at FAMU, she was a dedicated member of the American Dietetic Association, the National Association of University Women, Friends of the Black Archives, Order of the Eastern Star, Leon County Chapter of the FAMU Alumni Association, American Cancer Society, and later as a member of the FAMU Retirees Club. Her neighbors describe her as a caring and supportive neighbor and friend. Survivors include one son, Elijah Turner, and one daughter, Harriette V. Stewart, both of Tallahassee; one sister, Mary Jane Hinson of Oakland, Calif.; two brothers of Louisiana, Richard and Gene Roy Jones; two sisters-in-law, Lillie B. Jones and Richie Belle Stewart Martin; special friends, Jacqueline B. Beck and Carriemae G. Marquess; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Harry; her parents, Richard and Pearlie Payne Jones; two brothers, Xavier Lee and Billy Clyde Jones; and one sister, Ida Vernita Burch.
Published in the Tallahassee Democrat on 6/26/2008.

CESTA Administrator Selected as USDA Faculty Fellow

2008-06-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture
Tallahassee, Florida 32307

June 27, 2008
For Immediate Release

FAMU Director Selected as 2008 USDA FAS Faculty Fellow

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) has announced the selection of Harriett A. Paul, Director, International Agricultural Programs at Florida A&M University (FAMU), as one of the agency’s 2008 Faculty Fellows.

The purpose of the USDA-FAS Faculty Fellowship is to increase the flow of information and outreach to minority-serving, higher education institutions that prepare future potential employees for international agricultural related activities and industries. The Faculty Fellow is expected to take the knowledge and experience gained back to faculty and students at the home institution to enhance their understanding of FAS and the role the agency plays in international agriculture.

Paul, a graduate of FAMU, will begin the two-week fellowship on June 30, 2008, and will be stationed in Washington, DC. She has had extensive experience working with USDA programs focused on trade promotion in emerging markets. She has also served on the USDA-FAS Emerging Markets Advisory Committee (2001-2006). The general mission of the Committee is to make recommendations on policies and programs which will enhance agricultural exports to emerging markets through the use of Emerging Markets Program authority.

Paul sees the new opportunity as a viable method of strengthening the university’s ability to prepare students for a global workforce. “I am committed to utilizing the benefits of this fellowship to work with our faculty and students to enhance our access to FAS programs; to also help create more relevant curricula within the FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA); and to increase opportunities for international student experiential learning.”

For more information, please contact: Harriett A. Paul, Director, Office of International Agriculture and Center for International Agricultural Trade, Development Research and Training, at (850) 599-8825/8867 or email: hapaul585@aol.com.

Information about the fellowship program is available at:

http://ffas.usda.gov/admin/civilrights/facultyfellowship.asp.

Contact: Marian B. Gibbons,

Director, CESTA Communications
Email: marian.gibbons@famu.edu or
mabellgibbs@aol.com
Telephone: 850-561-2094
Fax: 850-561-2099

Alumni Scholarship Donation

2008-06-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

FAMU Alum gives $25,000 for Engineering Technology Scholarship

TALLAHASSEE, FL – On June 6, 2008, the constituents of the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture celebrated the retirement of Dr. Charles Wright, construction engineering technology professor, at Florida A&M University. The educational legacy of Dr. Wright influenced many FAMU graduates to return to the campus and pay homage to a dynamic educational mentor.

Paul Curtis, founder and president, Curtoom Companies of Tampa, Florida, was among the engineering technology alumni who attended the retirement banquet in honor of Wright. Curtis decided that this was the perfect time to show his appreciation to Wright as well as his alma mater by giving a $25,000 scholarship for deserving students majoring in engineering technology. Curtis’ donation is the largest gift given to the college by an alumni. He is a graduate in the Class of 1979 and majored in civil engineering technology.

Curtis was recently saluted by Governor Charlie Crist on the 20th year anniversary of his business. Christ appointed Curtis to a second term on the Florida Affordable Housing Study Commission. (March, 2008). In an article in The Weekly Challenger newspaper, (March 20-26, 2008 - St. Petersburg and Clearwater). Curtis has been appointed to a board of commission by every Florida Governor for the last 20 years.

Contact information, Marian Gibbons, Director, CESTA Communications, 850-561-2094.

Rattler Report -on CESTA Alumni Industry Day 2008

2008-04-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

Terrence Hunt, FAMU alumnus, (3rd from left) is responsible for forging the partnership between FAMU-CESTA and JCPenney Corporation to support engineering technology majors. He also played a major role in coordinating the activties of alumni in the college's first Alumni Industry Day.

Pictured above: Top - Curtis Sheard, Terrance Hunt and Dr. Makola Adbullah at the Banquet.

Bottom -- ( L-R) John Walton, Manager of Construction,JCPenneys; Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director, CESTA-FAMU; Terrance Hunt, Construction Services Project Manager, JCPenney; and Richard P. Oleary, Director/VP of Construction Services

Following is Hunt's response to the results of this endeavor.

It is with great pleasure that we announce the success of Industry Day 2008.

This year’s participants included the following companies:

JC Penney Company, Inc.
Balfour Beatty Construction
CS & Sons
Irok Construction
Phoenix Contracting
URS Corporation
Mims Construction
Big Cypress Natural Preserve
Hensel Phelps Construction
Ameren, Rosser International
Natural Conservation Resource
Gulf Contracting, Inc.
Boeing Company

The day was filled with a lot of energy before, during and after the seminars as all of the presenters brought real time experiences and intensity to their presentations.

Lunch time was created a buzz around the entire FAMU campus as Mr. Benbow & Mr. Bellamy fulfilled our appetites with Ribs, Chicken, Fish, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, etc. There was so much food that they fed students and faculty from SBI, Political Science and Faculty and Administration of CESTA, FAMU Physical Plant employees and many more. (Thank You Fellas)

Industry Day was highlighted with the Industry Day Banquet, where we had over 80 student participants (sponsored by Alumni & Friends) in attendance. The event was complete sold out and exceeded all of our expectations. Curtis Sheard (Class of ’94) stole the show with his impersonations of Dr. Wright, Mr. Bellamy and Mr. Benbow. We cannot say enough about Sodexho and their staff, “The food was great”, Thank You.

Our New Dean, Dr. Makola Abdullah delivered a thundering address our keynote speaker in which he detailed his plan to take CESTA to the next level. He has a lot of energy and couple with our enthusiasm and desire to be the best program at FAMU, we feel confident we can make this happen.

Special thanks goes out to Anthony Rodgers and the Balfour Beatty team as they conducted a week of seminars in conjunction with Industry Day, including a blue print reading seminar and OSHA 10-hour training to cap the week. In addition, special thanks go out the Marian Gibbons & Dee Jackson who worked tirelessly to advertise this event across the campus resulting in many of our participants being interviewed by the FAMUAN.

More thanks go out to Dr. Abdullah and his staff for the support of this event and his commitment to meet with Alumni, Company Reps both individually and collectively.

To all who wanted to attend and could not attend you missed a treat, but you will have your opportunity next year.

SEE YOU ALL AT THE FLORIDA CLASSIC TAILGATE PARTY!

Terrance G. Hunt
JCPenney Company, Inc.
Construction Services Project Manager
6501 Legacy Drive MS 2109
Plano, Texas 75024
(972) 431-6582 - Direct
(972) 531-6582 - Fax
Email - tghunt@jcpenney.com

Florida Wine Festival 2008

2008-03-11T12:29:00.001-07:00

Dr. Charles Magee (CESTA), Tallahassee Mayor John Marks, and

Dr. Stephen Leong (CESTA) enjoy the Florida Wine Festival (2006)

Florida A&M University’s Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research is proud to be a community sponsor for the 6th Annual Florida Wine Festival. The center is a component of the FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture. For the past six years, the center has played an important role in promoting the scientific research on the muscadine grapes and its impact on the wine industry.

The Florida Wine Festival will take place on April 10 – 12, 2008 at the Mary Brogan Museum of Art and Science in Kleman Plaza located on the corner of Adams and Pensacola streets in beautiful downtown Tallahassee. The weekend of activities is full of exciting things to do for adults and children.

The FAMU family is invited to participate in the tree days of find food, fine wine and good friends. Other partners include: The City of Tallahassee, The Tallahassee Democrat, WCTV, Comcast Cablevision, Cumulus Broadcasting and many area restaurants.

More information about tickets and schedule of events is forthcoming. Visit the official website at:
http://www.thefloridawinefestival.com/, or contact Dr. Stephen Leong, Director, FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research, at 850-599-3996 or Stephen.leong@famu.edu.

Grower's Market - Tallahasse Democrat March 7, 2008

2008-03-07T06:08:00.000-08:00

The following web site includes an honorable mention about the FAMU Small Farm Programs

Grower's Market at Lake Ella in the Tallahassee Democrat, March 7, 2008, by Janie Nelson,

community publications editor. Keep up the good work, Dr. Jennifer Taylor, coordinator,

Statewide Small Farm Programs. Photo: A Growers' Market vendor shows off organic cabbage.

(Taken by M. Gibbons, Director, CESTA Communications)

www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?category=PluckPersona&U=88f71b49361b4df08778235c1c9c1b0d&plckController=PersonaBlog&plckScript=personaScript&plckElementId=personaDest&plckPersonaPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3a88f71b49361b4df08778235c1c9c1b0dPost%3aeaf80816-906d-429c-9b98-143927629b11&sid=sitelife.tallahassee.com

Goat Field Day 2008

2008-03-06T01:04:00.000-08:00

Announcing

GOAT FIELD DAY

"Issues Impacting Health, Nutrition & Marketing"

<><><><><><><>

APRIL 11, 2008

9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

FAMU Research and Extension Center

4259 Bainbridge Highway <> Quincy, Florida

Registration - Free to the public

Lunch will be served - Donation $5.00 per person
<><><><><><><>

Workshops, hands-on demonstrations, goat meat samples,

technical support for local producers and more!

<><><><><><><>

Sponsored by the

Cooperative Extension Program

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture

Tallahassee, FL 32307

For registration information, contact:

Dr. Thomas Peterson, Assistant Professor/ Extension Veterinarian

Phone: 850-412-5117 Email: thomas.peterson@famu.edu

Visit the FAMU Statewide Goat Program at
http://www.famu.edu/herds

JCPenney Internship Program for Engineering Technology Majors

2008-03-04T08:38:00.000-08:00

The faculty in the Division of Engineering Technology in the FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture is pleased to announce the establishment of the JC Penney Internship Program for qualified engineering technology majors at Florida A&M University. Students interested in competing for a 10-week intern position at a JCPenney construction site are requested to email a copy of their resume to Professor Norman Bellamy – Norman.bellamy@famu.edu or rattman20@aol.com on or before March 7, 2008.

On March 26, 2008, the Corporate Relations Team from the Engineering and Construction Division of JC Penney’s will be visiting with Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director, Land-Programs/ CESTA to establish an agreement between the corporation and university to implement the internship and training program. Faculty interested in attending the meeting are encouraged to contact Dr. Abdullah at 561-2644 or email: makola.abdullah@famu.edu; or Associate Dean, Dr. Oghenekome Onokpise at oghenekome.onokpise@famu.edu.

The Corporate Relations Team will be interviewing candidates on Thursday, March 27, 2008 in the Benjamin Banneker Technical Building, Unit B. (campus.)

Below is information about the company and the new internship and training opportunity for CESTA students.

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JCPENNEY’S CONSTRUCTION INTERNSHIP AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITY

Company overview

JCPenney is one of America’s leading retailers with revenues close to $20 billion. Our customers can shop with us in over 1,000 stores located throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, and through jcp.com, one of the most popular general merchandise Web sites on the Internet. Whether shopping in our stores, catalogs or on the web at jcp.com, customers find style and quality at a smart price.

JCPenney is executing its strategic plan to be the growth leader in the retail industry. Key to this strategy is JCPenney’s “Every Day Matters” brand positioning, intended to generate deeper, more emotionally driven relationships with customers by fully engaging the Company’s 155,000 Associates to offer encouragement, provide ideas and inspire customers every time they shop with JCPenney. Every Day Matters in your career….Come be a part of our growth.

Assistant Project Representative – Construction Services

Position Overview
During the 10-week construction summer program, the representative will be positioned at a JCPenney construction site and will be exposed to various aspects of a JCPenney store under construction. The representative will partner with a JCPenney Project Manager and the JCPenney Project Representative to act as the owner’s representative on construction projects, interfacing with Store Planning, Contract Administration, Store Environment, and Contractors as well as other professionals in the Home Office to bring the JCPenney stores to a successful opening.

Basic Responsibilities

Meet daily with the General Contractor to assist in the resolution of any issues and review the work of all contractors on-site to assure they are meeting the specifications while providing a high quality of work
Attend weekly jobsite meetings, which include the General Contractor, all subcontractors, the JCP Field Representative, the JCP Project Manager, architect, and engineers
Assist in coordinating efforts of the construction team while store is under construction

Basic Qualifications

A minimum of 3.0 GPA
Undergraduate studies in a Construction Management related field (Civil or Construction)
Hands-on construction experience a plus
Previous exposure to CAD preferred
Should possess strong organizational, communication, team building and decision-making skills

The Corporate Relations team will be interviewing candidates on Thursday, March 27, 2008 in the Benjamin Banneker Tech Building B.

If interested, please forward your resume to rattman20@aol.com (Prof. Bellamy): Please add “Construction Services APR” in the subject line. The Deadline for resumes is Friday 7, 2008.

MINDS ON MANRSS

2008-02-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

FAMU-CESTA will be represented in record number at the upcoming 2008 Career Fair and Training Conference sponsored annually by the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS). The national meeting will take place on March 27-30, 2008 in Denver Colorado.

Joyia Smith, FAMU senior agribusiness major, and National Undergraduate Student President of MANRRS, has been a positive influence on CESTA students to attend the meeting, resulting in an increase of 100%. We applaud her leadership this year!

FAMU-CESTA will have three students competing in the activities this year. Kelly Scavella will represent the University in the essay contest; and Latasha Lyte and Kenneth Livingston have entered the research poster competition. Mr. Damon Miller, advisor, is making preparations for the group to have a succesful journey.

For more information about the conference or MANRRS, please visit http://www.manrrs.org/ .

Speaking of Success

2008-02-26T11:11:00.001-08:00

Photo: Damon Miller, FAMU Extension Specialist, with Fall, 2007 Speechcraft participants.

The Speechcraft Workshop Series culminated with the participants having a new love for public speaking. Damon Miller coordinated the eight-week outreach activity that appealed to people of all ages. The final session was held on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2008, and everyone gathered for final speeches to be rendered at a special graduation luncheon.

A total 27 persons participated in the activity, which was designed to help interested parties develop and strengthen their confidence in public speaking. A variety of subject matter was presented as the participants learned different styles and types of speeches such as: Introductory, Show and tell, Persuasive and Ice Breakers.

If you missed the first session, Speechcraft --Session 2 will begin on Thursday, April 3, 2008. To perfect your public speaking skill, contact Damon Miller at 850-599-3546 or email: damon.miller@famu.edu. The session is free to the public.

Safely Ride Team Campus Challenge

2008-02-22T09:29:00.000-08:00

Dr. Charles Wright, Professor, Dr. Charles Construction Technology and Safety Team (1st row -on left) issued a campus-wide challenge to the attendees of the FAMU Black History Month Convocation on February 22, 2008. Wright urged students to follow the examples of the University's President, Dr. James Ammons, and others who have taken the safety pledge to help save lives by using seat belts during travelling and avoiding drinking while driving.

Wright and the committee have taken a solid stand to energize the Safety Project, which is designed to help reduce the loss of young lives due to fatal car accidents. A Tee-Shirt rally has been ongoing with cash awards being given as an incentive to help increase awareness of the project. For more information about the Safety project, contact Dr. Charles Wright, 850-599-8623 or email: charles.wright@famu.edu.

1ST ANNUAL ALUMNI INDUSTRY DAY

2008-02-21T13:48:00.001-08:00

PHOTO: Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director, Land Grant Programs in the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture (CESTA) at Florida A&M University to speak at the 1 st Industry Forum Banquet.

The Division of Engineering Technology (ET) in CESTA will sponsor its 1st annual Alumni Industry Day on Thursday, March 27, 2008 at 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. in the Benjamin Banneker Technology Complex. The event is designed to provide an opportunity for former graduates of the engineering technology programs to the FAMU campus to share their expertise and assist in preparing ET majors for entering diverse professions related to engineering technology.

Seminar topics will include:

Preparing a Professional Resume -- Interviewing 101 -- Professional Development -- Transition from College to the Workforce -- Networking & Community Involvement -- Being a Woman in Construction-- and Career Options.

FAMU alumni have pledged to return to campus to connect with current and prospective students, faculty, staff and administration in CESTA to build a stronger network and circle of success. Presentors on schedule include: Curtis Sheard, President, CS & Sons; Anthony Rodgers, Superintendant, Balfour Beatty; Kori Monroe and Guysen Bohler, Vice Presidents, IROK, Dr. Walter E. Dukes, University of Florida; Lynn Mims, Mims Construction and Julian Parker, Rosser International.

The Forum Banquet will culminate the day of activities, with Dr. Makola Abdullah, Dean and Director, CESTA, being featured as the keynote speaker. The banquet will be held in the H. Manning Efferson Grand Ballroom on the campus of Florida A&M University, from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $20/person. Business attire is requested. Persons interested in attending the banquet should RSVP via email to Mr. Terrance Hunt at tghunt@jcpenny.com by March 29, 2008. Monies will be collected at the door on the night of the event. For more information contact Mr. Terrance Hunt, JCPenney Company, Inc at (972) 431-6582.

International Cuisine - Recipe

2008-02-18T16:23:00.001-08:00

Pigeon Peas and Rice

Origin - Jamaica

By Andrine Stanhope - Graduate Student - CESTA

1 cup red kidney beans or pigeon peas

1/2 coconut milk

Scallions

Thyme

Salt

Garlic

Bring beans to a boil. Add crushed garlic and salt and boil beans until tender. When peare are tender add coconut milk and rice according to the amount of liquid remaining. Add scallion and thyme to taste. Let steam until rice is done.

This recipe is featured in the CESTA Land-Grant Harvest Cookbook -- A Taste of International Cuisine, call the Office of International Agriculture Programs to purchase a copy - Harriet Paul or Betty Hudson at 850.599.8816.

Corporate Visits - February 08

2008-02-18T12:48:00.000-08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CESTA is sponsoring its annual CAREER FAIR on Tuesday, February 19, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom. All FAMU students are encouraged to attend to network and interview with attending companies and agencies seeking to offer opportunities for employment, internships, graduate school admission, co-ops and summer jobs. Contact: Dr. Alfredo Lorenzo, Coordinator, at 850.599.3729 or email: alfred.lorenzo@famu.edu.

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The FAMU-CESTA Division of Engineering Technology Sciences will host corporate information sessions during the month of February for construction engineering technology majors. The following companies have scheduled campus visits to interview CESTA students:

Brasfield & Gorrie - Tuesday, February 19, 2008 - 5:00 p.m.

Walton Construction - February 28-29, 2008 – 6:00 p.m.

Place: 201-B, Benjamin Banneker Technology Bldg. B
FAMU Florida A&M University
College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture
Tallahassee, Florida

Students can sign up for interview sessions with Walton Construction beginning February 19, 2008 in Room 102 Benjamin Banneker Bldg. B.
Contacts: Dr. Yves Anglade, Division Director, ET, Email: yves.anglade@famu.edu; or Ms. Velori Dickey 850-599-3506 email: velori.dickey@famu.edu or velori-dickey@yahoo.com.

CAREER GLIMPSE - Veterinarian

2008-02-18T11:48:00.000-08:00

(click on arrow to play)

Prepare for a successful future. Study Animal Science!

For information about career choices in animal science or veterinary technlology, the office of Student Recruitment, College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture at Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida.

Ms. Taquasha Freeman, Coordinator; Phone: 850-599-3383; Email: taquasha.freeman@famu.edu.
Dr. Thomas Peterson, Assistant Professor/Extension Veterinarian, CESTA, Phone: 850-412.5117 or Email: thomas.peterson@famu.edu.

Sunshine Market Update

2008-02-18T08:51:00.000-08:00

Sunshine Growers’ Market

CANCELLED FOR
Monday, February 18, 2008

*NOTE – Beginning March 3, the Sunshine Growers’ Market will have new hours!
The new hours will be 11am – 2pm.

Upcoming workshops and cooking demo's scheduled for March, 2008

Sustainable Living Workshops

Healthy Eating - Learn how to grow your own Spring Garden in Containers
· Herbs Gardens/March 03, 2008/Noon
· Vegetable gardens in containers/March 10, 2008/Noon

Growing Organic Tomatoes
March 24, 2008 / Noon
Turkey Hill Farm/Herman Holley
Tomato plants will be available for purchase

Cooking Demonstration
Tamara's Floridita Restaurant
March 17, 2008/Noon

*All workshops and cooking demonstrations will be held at the Sunshine Growers’ Market on the lawn under the trees between 4025 and 4055 Esplanade Way.
(Outside of Shuster’s Café)

The Sunshine Growers’ Market is being conducted in collaboration with Florida A&M University CESTA Cooperative Extension Program, Statewide Small Farm Programs.
For more information about the Statewide Small Farm Programs,
contact Dr. Jennifer Taylor at (850) 412-5260 or Jennifer.Taylor@famu.edu
For additional information contact Health InSite at insite@doh.state.fl.us

BLACK HISTORY MILESTONE

2008-02-15T10:58:00.000-08:00

The Late Dr. Benjamin L. Perry

The FAMU College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture recognizes the accomplishments of its graduates who make viable contributions to society in many diverse profesional roles. The college is proud of producing outstanding leaders in its history.

Former FAMU president, the late Dr. Benjamin L. Perry, earned his baccalaureate degree from Florida A&M College in 1940, majoring in agricultural education. Perry was a native of Tallahassee, Florida. He served as the sixth president of FAMU from 1968-1977, during one of the most crucial decades in the history of Florida A&M Universiy, an historically black university in the State University System. Perry is recognized as the “Savior of FAMU” for his strong, successful stand against political forces that sought to merge or abolish the institution.

New Grower's Markets in Spring 2008

2008-02-15T09:15:00.000-08:00

The FAMU Statewide Small Farm Program will launch three new local growers' market this month.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (EP) has formed a partnership with the Small Farm Program to open its new urban market on March 21, 2008 in Tallahassee, Florida. This new market will be located at 3900 Commonwealth Boulevard, with hours from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. for employees in the (EP) department to purchase fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, flowers and plants as well as other value added products directly on site.

New markets will also begin operation in Port St. Joe, Florida and in Thomasville, Georgia, this month.

The Small Farm Program focuses on promoting sustainability and economic opportunities for small farmers and at the same time strengthen public awareness about healthier lifestyles and alternatives regarding food and nutrition for consumers. A variety of activities are offered at the markets such as cooking demonstrations by local chefs/ restaurants, product samplings, entertainment, health screenings and book signings.

Dr. Jennifer Taylor, Coordinator, FAMU Statewide Small Farm Programs, has been effective in helping local small farmers coordinate three other such markets, including the Grower's Market at Lake Ella, Sunshine Market with the Fla. Department of Health and the Apalachicola Grower's Market. The program, which is a component in the FAMU Cooperative Extension Program, has experienced a tremendous amount of success of the past few years.

Photo above shows Dr. Taylor (first on left) with two local farmers that participate in the Growers' Market at Lake Ella.

For more information, contact Dr. Jennifer Taylor, 850-412-5260 or email: jennifer.taylor@famu.edu.