Famous FFA Alumni, Florida’s Nile Monitor, and International Travel

Season 6, Episode 278

Famous FFA Alumni Who Shaped America

The National FFA Organization has produced leaders in business, politics, science, and entertainment. FFA builds skills in leadership, public speaking, agriculture, and community service.

Notable FFA Alumni

Jeff “Tigger” Erhardt (Alumni and Honorary Chapter FArmer, FFA Livestock Judging Coach): National Radio Show Host, New Broadcaster, PRCA Announcer.

39th President Jimmy Carter

Johnny Cash

Charlie Daniels

John Mellencamp

Willie Nelson

Don Henley of The Eagles

George Strait

Cody Johnson

Tim McGraw

Taylor Swift

Bo Jackson (Sports Legend)

Brantley Gilbert

Trace Adkins

Easton Corbin

Chancey Williams

Jim Davis – Creator of the Garfield comics!

Lane Frost

Tuff Hedeman

Baxter Black

Reference: https://ffa.app.box.com/s/6pe6an7rgm9c042tbkbobqc8tuu0o1hz

South Florida Faces Growing Threat from Invasive Nile Monitors

A new invasive predator is spreading in South Florida — and it’s a big one. The Nile monitor, a six-foot-long lizard native to Africa, is gaining ground in parts of the state. Wildlife officials say the species poses a serious threat to native animals, and it can now be killed year-round without a permit.

Known for tackling invasive reptiles, trapper Mike Kimmel — also called the Python Cowboy — describes the Nile monitor as “like a python mixed with an iguana.” They’re powerful, intelligent predators, similar to a smaller Komodo dragon.

On Florida’s west coast, especially in Cape Coral, biologists have been battling the species for nearly 20 years. Hundreds have been trapped, but pockets remain. That’s concerning because Cape Coral is also home to Florida’s largest population of the threatened Burrowing owl, which nests in the ground — making it vulnerable to predators like the Nile monitor.

These lizards are carnivores. They eat fish, frogs, birds, eggs, small mammals — even young crocodiles — and have been known to attack chickens and small pets. They can grow up to 6.5 feet long, weigh nearly 20 pounds, run up to 18 miles per hour, and swim underwater for nearly an hour. Their ability to travel along canals and waterways has helped them spread.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is actively removing Nile monitors and urges residents to report any sightings.

Wildlife officials warn: this is one invasive species South Florida can’t afford to ignore.

Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/florida-newest-invasive-nile-monitors/

What To Do To Minimize Stress About International Travel and “Shelter In Place” Warnings

Last weekend Americans were told to shelter in place following a Mexican drug lord’s death on Feb. 22, 2026. As a result, parts of Mexico have seen civil unrest in the wake of his death, including vehicles being torched and gunmen, believed to have supported the deceased, blocking highways in more than a dozen Mexico states.

This is a great reminder that anytime traveling beyond the U.S. borders to utilize the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service to U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll a trip abroad so that the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact in case of emergency.

Benefits of STEP

• Updates about health, weather, safety and security for your destination.
• Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
• Helps the embassy or consulate contact you if there is an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

Current Status: According to the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico website.

Actions to Take:

• Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements.
• Avoid areas around law enforcement activity.
• Check @CAPUFE on X for status of road closures.
• Monitor local media for updates.
• Follow the directions of local authorities and in case of emergency, call 911.
• Keep family and friends advised of your location and well-being via phone, text, and social media.

How To Be Travel Prepared

• Traveling abroad: Register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
• Pack snacks such as microwave popcorn and small snacks.
• Stock your hotel room with extra bottled water and individually packaged snacks.
• Advise family and friends of location, length of trip and emergency contact information.
• Travel with extra medications as well as over the counter aides such as cold and fever meds.

Philippines

During this episode we learn how radio host, Jeff “Tigger” Erhardt”, traveled to the Philippines for auctioneering. Tigger is a licensed and bonded auctioneer, with over 20 years experience. The Philippines was a new venture for Tigger and he shares in-depth the difference between American Auctions vs International and then selling Heavy Equipment in a foreign currency.

Quick Philippines Travel Summary

The Philippines are located in Southeast Asia, in the western Pacific Ocean and consist of over 7,100 islands. Positioned east of Vietnam and north of Indonesia.

Capital: Manila

Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP). Cash is king outside major cities.

Language: Filipino and English

Best Time to Visit the Philippines

There are two main seasons.

• Dry Season: November–May (best time, especially Dec–April)
• Rainy Season: June–October (typhoons possible)

 

Philippines Travel Tips

• Recommend drinking only bottled or filtered water.
• Street food is popular but choose busy vendors.
• Consider routine vaccines (consult your doctor).
• Sun protection is essential – climate is very humid and hot.

OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS

We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to BendRadioShow@gmail.com. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates!

https://thebendshow.com/

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WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS

Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC’ Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation.

With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God’s Country and life on the land.

United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They’re here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day.

To learn more about Tigger & BEC’s journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com.

https://tiggerandbec.com/