Clermont

Today was quite possibly the hottest day since our arrival in Clermont.   Between the humidity, hot weather and buzzing gnats, it was the PERFECT day to stand in the scorching sun and ask fifty random people the same question; “How would use technology to rebuild the world?”.  We posed that question to people at Lakeridge Winery, where the 18^th annual Harvest Festival was taking place.

 It was my first trip to a winery and I was in awe of the picturesque rows of green vines that stretched for miles before me.   My quiet moment amidst the vines was shattered, however, by some hollering, cheering and loud foot stomping.  The source of all the hoopla?  Grape stomping.   Men, women and children stood in large wooden barrels, squishing grapes beneath their feet.   Racquel and I watched for several minutes before we began interviewing for the afternoon.   We heard a variety of interesting responses, but most of you agreed that technology should be used to make the world greener.

 It wasn’t long, however, before the heat started to get to us.  Almost everyone we’ve met in Florida has reminded us to stay well-hydrated.  And after listening to Racquel’s whining today, I was all for the purchase of the 12-pack of bottled water that is currently sitting in our fridge.  (We do realize that things could be far worse than being dehydrated, like getting hurt on the job. We learned today that a fellow News21 journalist was hurt while videotaping a soap box derby in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.  Phil, take it easy tomorrow.  We want to see you back in Syracuse!)

-Courtnee