Citrus County FIRES UP INNOVATION By Jessica Alegria
Throughout the retreat, attendees enjoyed masterfully prepared meals from the WEC kitchen. Creative snack breaks, a flavorful BBQ-style supper buffet, an upscale brunch, and an ice cream sundae bar were all delivered with top-tier service. We also celebrated the installation of the 2025-2026 FSNA Board of Directors. The swearing-in ceremony and announcement of the newly elected members was led, once again, by Tony Jenkins. To wrap up the event, attendees had the opportunity to engage one-on-one with industry partners during the Connection Round Showcase. Each guest received a “passport” encouraging them to visit every booth for a chance to win exciting prizes. A big congratulations goes to Misty Fired of Citrus County, who took home the grand raffle prize: a brand-new laptop!
We are honored to announce that our very own Citrus County School Nutrition Services has been awarded with the prestigious 2025 Operator Innovation Award by NxtGen Network! This noteworthy recognition celebrates Citrus County’s bold and forward-thinking Restaurant Inspirations program, where students were immersed in restaurant-style dining experiences without stepping a foot off campus. Dynamic partnerships with local restaurants like Sonny’s BBQ made it possible to set the scene. Scholars found themselves in a cafeteria cook-out, as pitmasters served up slow-roasted BBQ on Texas
toast, topped with Sonny’s beloved Signature BBQ sauce. The program shows a wonderful example of how innovation and community partnerships can ensure that our students receive nutritious meals and are genuinely drawn to enjoying school lunch. The award was presented at Ignite 2025, where Chapter President Gwen McCarthy Freier, Lindsey Brooks, and CRHS Food Services Manager Paul Ingram proudly accepted the honor on behalf of the district. Citrus County is setting a new standard in school nutrition. Their leadership and commitment to enhancing the student dining experience are helping shape the future of school meal program. Congratulations to this incredible team of innovators on a well-deserved recognition!
FSNA Board of Directors: Former President Tony Jenkins, President-Elect Kevin Thornton, Director Chair Tim Thompson, Admin Supervisor Chair Sean Ellis, President Roy Pistone, Region I Director John Tyre, Region III Director Justin Mundet, Region IV Director Vera Torres, Director At-Large II Gwen McCartney-Freier, and SIP Representative Josh Fowler.
“The accommodation was well-suited to the needs of the retreat, offering a clean, comfortable, and functional environment that aligned seamlessly with the event’s objectives... This supportive setting played a quiet but important role in fostering productivity, reflection, and connection throughout the retreat.”
8 | Healthy Harvest September 2025
Healthy Harvest September 2025 | 9
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