Conference attendees mingle before starting the morning's educational program. According to Florida Citrus Mutual, a record crowd of nearly 800 people participated in this year's event. Photo by Paul Rusnak

Mike Sparks, VP/CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual, kicks off the educational session at the 2014 Florida Citrus Industry Annual Conference in Bonita Springs.  Photo by Paul Rusnak

During the educational session, longtime citrus grower Tom Jerkins stressed the need for a galvanizing message the industry can take to any and all that will listen. By the end of his presentation, he had the crowd chanting: "We need bactericides now!" Photo by Paul Rusnak

The morning short course featuring several presentations from researchers and growers played to a packed ballroom. With a program theme of "Reason For Optimism," the educational session agenda comprised the latest on antimicrobial research, the potential of thermotherapy for sick trees, new HLB-resistant rootstocks, and prime examples of true commitment to the future of Florida citrus.  Photo by Paul Rusnak

Rob Atchley, Duda Citrus Division, wound up the educational session by discussing what his company is doing to invest in Florida citrus. Florida Grower's April cover story subject told the interested crowd: "We  need to maintain a critical mass in this industry, and the only way to do that is to put trees in the ground." To conclude his presentation, Atchley left attendees on a high note by airing a custom-made video that speaks directly to citrus growers in attendance. Photo by Paul Rusnak

For the second year in a row, the Florida Citrus Industry Annual Conference luncheon served up a meal featuring Fresh From Florida fare. From recipes created by Florida's executive chef Justin Timineri, attendees dined on seasonal salad with citrus vinaigrette; herb roasted chicken with southern harvest succotash and buttermilk mashed potatoes; fresh sliced watermelon with sorbet; and Florida mint citrus tea. Photo by Paul Rusnak

Before the Industry Banquet, Florida Grower's Frank Giles got a little one-on-one time with Mike Sparks, this year's Citrus Achievement Award winner. Photo by Paul Rusnak

The cocktail reception preceding the Industry Banquet gave attendees a chance to eat, drink, and be merry. Photo by Paul Rusnak

Highlands County-based grower and Florida Citrus Mutual Board Of Directors member John Barben took on the role of master of ceremonies for the Industry Banquet. Photo by Paul Rusnak

All dressed up, the banquet crowd looks forward to the Citrus Achievement Award presentation. Photo by Paul Rusnak

Florida Grower editor Frank Giles [left] and Keith Griffith, Chemtura AgroSolutions, take the stage to introduce the 2014 Citus Achievement Award winner. This year marks the seventh consecutive that Chemtura has sponsored the award. Photo by Paul Rusnak

From the head table, Mike Sparks soaks up the moment as he is summoned to the stage for his award. Photo by Paul Rusnak

2014 Florida Grower Citrus Achievement Award winner Mike Sparks receives his trophy on stage from Florida Grower editor Frank Giles [left] and Keith Griffith, Chemtura AgroSolutions. Photo by Paul Rusnak

During his acceptance speech, Mike Sparks made sure to recognize all those who've helped make a positive impact on the Florida citrus industry. Photo by Paul Rusnak

Flanked by his family members, the big winner enjoys the spotlight. Photo by Paul Rusnak

Florida Grower and Chemtura AgroSolutions are proud to add Mike Sparks to the already impressive list of Citrus Achievement Award winners. Photo by Paul Rusnak