News Stories - Page 4

A third-generation farmer, Jimmy Carter Jr. owns and operates Southern Belle Farm in McDonough, Georgia, with his son Jake, just as his father did with him a generation ago. But the operation looks a lot different than it did when Carter joined his father in business. The Carters have kept the family farm in operation for 85 years by consistently adapting and responding to changes in agriculture.

Researchers in the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences are working to engineer a better tomorrow. Faculty and staff with the CAES Office of Research are committed to discovering, innovating and delivering the science required to feed and fuel the world. Some of the most respected researchers in the world are working in our labs and teaching in our classrooms to facilitate the cutting-edge research activities that lead to better food, fuel, fiber and health for everyone.

At the University of Georgia, undergraduate students spend their first years as young adults gaining vital skills that last a lifetime — deeper knowledge, practical capabilities and, in select cases, grill master status. The first-year seminar class “BBQ and You,” taught by John Michael Gonzalez and Alexander Stelzleni in the Department of Animal and Dairy Science, is tailored for students interested in improving their barbecue technique.

For centuries, scientists have tried to crack the mystery of a devastating ailment once called “the shaking palsy.” But Parkinson’s disease, which causes tremors, muscle stiffness and difficulty walking, remains the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the United States after Alzheimer’s. About 1 million Americans have Parkinson’s, and more than 50,000 new cases are diagnosed annually.

Six University of Georgia faculty received awards Monday for their commitment to public service and outreach. The awards were presented at the 32nd Annual Public Service and Outreach Meeting and Awards Luncheon, held at the UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel.

Georgia 4-H dedicated the Thomas F. Rodgers Administration Building at Rock Eagle 4-H Center to honor former Georgia 4-H state leader Tom Rodgers for his years of service to 4-H and University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. During his tenure as Georgia 4-H leader, Rodgers championed the renovation of the Rock Eagle 4-H Center, raising more than $2 million to secure Rock Eagle’s status as a centerpiece of Georgia 4-H.