June 23, 2008

ISSUE 1224

MASON SMOAK DIES IN PLANE CRASH

Mason Smoak, a respected citrus producer and cattle rancher from Lake Placid, was killed along with another person around noon on Friday when his single-engine Piper airplane crashed at Placid Lakes airport.

Highlands County Sheriff Susan Benton told reporters that Smoak, 33, was flying with a bear expert, tracking bears in the southern end of the county.

“Mason was one of Florida’s best and brightest young leaders. It’s a tragic loss for our industry,” said FFVA President Mike Stuart..

 

ALSO IN THIS WEEK'S RAP-UP

(Members-Only articles are indicated in bold.)

FDA CONTINUES SALMONELLA TRACEBACK

MASON SMOAK DIES IN PLANE CRASH

CRIST SIGNS IMPORTANT GREENBELT BILL

LAKE OKEECHOBEE SERVICE AREA WATER USE PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS BEGINS

FARM BILL PROCESS FINALLY COMPLETE

ERC ADOPTS DIESEL IDLING RULE