Florida Cave Cavort 2017

Mike Thomas in exploration mode. (Photo by Philip Walker)

Once a year cavers through-out Florida gather for fun and festivities. This year the Florida Cave Cavort was held on Jerry and Shirl’s Farm in Williston Florida, during the first weekend in March.

Out of the 120 cavers in attendance, many cavers were old friends, but this year there were some historical cavers and new cavers. We all like the geological, recreational, and scenic values of caves. However, it is friendships within the caving community that makes Caving truly Great! Every time Florida cavers get together new friends are made as well as old friends getting reacquainted. Cavers may be a little strange, but they are the best people and it’s always a wonderful experience to get-together for a weekend.

This year was awesome! There were cave, dive, and kayak trips. Plus, the new rappel tower and zip lines. The entire Johnson family prepared and served an absolutely outstanding meal for all, with Jerry providing the best smoked meat ever.

We want to thank the exceptional band and sponsors who helped out making this years Cave Cavort such an amazing event:

• Music by Capt Jon Semmes with “Singing River Tours”

• Dive gear from Ocala Dive Center

• Dinners from Woodys BBQ

• Coolers, Calender’s, and trinkets from Runaway Trailers

• Gift baskets from Starbucks

• Cave gear from SCCi

Mike and Emma enter Jerry’s Cave with the cave cat. (Photo by Philip Walker)

The Cave Cat didn’t venture very far fearing the chilly water. (photo by Philip Walker)

The Flint River Grotto Camping Area. (Photo by Dennis Carney)

Bill Birdsall attempting to dance with the Atyeo’s “People Down by the River.” (Photo by Philip Walker)

Tina Finds Hitch-Hiker Cave. (Photo by Tina Willis)

The Chert monster is soon to devour the poor little spider in Tucks Cave. (Photo by Tina Willis)

Climbing out of Tucks Cave. (Photo by Tina Willis)

The Gang exits Whitecliff Cave. (Photo by ???…Damn memory)

The Carney family and friends head into Brain Fungus Cave. (Photo by Dennis Carney)

Getting low and wet in James Cave. (photo by Dennis Carney)

Well the pyramid marks the spot. The Grand Entrance of Ocala Caverns. (Photo by Dennis Carney)

The bridge in the New Section of Ocala Caverns. (Photo by Dennis Carney)

A Special Plaque For a Special Couple

Jerry Johnson started with the FSS in 1961, and has been an active member ever since. Jerry has contributed to cave discovery, exploration, and survey–most notably Warrens, Briar, and Glory Hole Blowing Cave. Jerry has been a contributing board member for the last 30 years with 2 tours as President, 5 tours as secretary, and 20 tours as treasurer. Jerry has also chaired the Board of Governors for the NSS.

Jerry and Shirl have been pinnacles of strength for the FSS. In addition to their wonderful guidance, they have hosted meetings, parties and Cavorts out at their farm for years. The FSS is really like a big family with Jerry and Shirl being our cave parents.

Below is a picture of a plaque given to Jerry and Shirl. The plaque is an ancient cypress logged over 130 years ago. The log broke free and sank into the depths of the Ocklawaha river. Through the years the rivers tanics have soaked deep into the core of the wood. The ancient log was found and recovered 50 years ago. The beautiful wood has only been used for very special plaques since its recovery. This plaque, given to the Johnsons by the members of the FSS, is the very last piece of that ancient special log.

Jerry Johnson holding the “Thank you” Plaque. (Photo by Mike Thomas)

Warming the toes by the Sunday morning Campfire.

Story by Philip Walker