After two years of waiting, and 4 months of planning: meals, ticket sales, tee-shirt design, band, cave permissions, guide book printing, port-a potty rental, raffle, and area preparation–the March 4-6, 2022 weekend for the Florida Cave Cavort had arrived.

According to the Britannica Dictionary, a Cavort (kəˈvoɚt) is:

1) to jump or move around in a lively manner.     

2) to spend time in an enjoyable and often wild or improper way.

How does one Cavort? Cavorting requires a good mood, lots of energy, and some running room. Children love to cavort, and so do parents when they win the lottery, or get together with other cavers.

The origins of the word are lost to history-as is when the first gathering of Florida Cavers was. Traditionally-the annual gathering of Florida Cavers rotates around to different areas (Tampa, Tallahassee, Gainesville) but in this area-it has always been known as a Florida Cave Cavort, and this year it was AWESOME!

Now we’ve seen all these cave photos, lets see some Cavort’n going on.

This was an awesome event! Great Caves, Great People, Great Band, Great Food, Great Raffle…This is just what we all needed. Thanks to everyone that came out. Also, thanks to all the following:

• Jerry and Shirl Johnson for the use of their beautiful farm.

• FSS Board and members for all the hard work.

• Fire Water Tent Revival Band.

• Vince Phelps for cooking a fantastic BBQ.

• OneRope1 and Inner Mountain Outfitters: for raffle items.

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

Florida Cave Cavort 2017

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

Here are a few pictures of the 2017 Cave Cavort preparation work days. Go right to the bottom to see the rappelling tower pictures and zip line movie.

Workday #1: November 8, 2016. Workers came out to do preliminary cleaning of unused areas, conduct a little fence repair, and do general maintenance.

(Photos by Jeremy Atyeo)

Mike inspects the fence and brush.

The Gang cleans up.

The gang piles brush after cutting.

Chuck gives Jerry’s ass a little attention.

Steve works on the fence.

Workday #2: December 21, 2016 was the second workday. The goal was to trim some trees, finish the tower, and build the fire-ring.

(Photos by Jon Singley)

Kitty watching her little toes while using some big trimmers?

Rocks are brought in for the fire-ring.

Bill trims the trees.

Steve works on the tower while modeling for Home Dept.

Bernice feeds the troops with her wonderful Bistro.

Workday #3: January 22, 2017.  Goals were to rig the zip lines, have electric and plumbing worked on, and finish up on small repairs.

(Photos by Jeremy Atyeo)

James and Jerry prepare the zip line kit.

Electric is installed and working.

Mike and Dave discuss the zip line placement.

Chuck and James ready the cable.

Bill and Mike hang the zip line.

Workday #4: February 12, 2017. Goals were to burn the dried brush, bring in firewood, work on finishing touches and of course…test out the zip lines.

(Photos by Phil Walker)

James wets the area around the proposed brush burn.

Bill inspects the shower house. The shower house is in Great Shape, thanks to Tony.

Burning some brush, and being safe about it.

Horses hanging out by the fire-ring.

This horse is ‘re-tired’.

The rappelling tower all ready to go.

Select the video to see the zip line in action. Make sure you have your sound on!

Date: March 4-5, 2022.

Where: Jerry Farm at 7130 NE 150^th Ave, Williston Florida 32696

• Long sleeve synthetic shirts (Design above) will be available for $25 extra during ticket sales. Only a limited number of shirts will be available for purchase at the event so please pre-order when you order your ticket.

**** Register HERE ****

If the shirts are extra-What is included?

For only $35.00 (or $40.00 the day off) you get:

• Camping during the entire event.

• Saturday night BBQ dinner

• The Saturday night Firewater Tent Revival Band is jam’en.

• Steamy Hot showers.

• A Fire everyday-yes, a real fire. why watch one on TV when you can visit a real one with other cavers at the Cavort.

• A climbing tower, right on site-with a couple of kid friendly zip lines.

• Many Guided Trips.

• Two kegs of beer-one Friday, one Saturday. If you buy a $15 cup all your beer is included ‘FREE’. Yes, a cornucopia cup for only $15.00-WHAT A DEAL!

• Door prizes/raffle Saturday night. Some door prizes pictured below:

300 foot rope/150 foot rope/carabiners/mico-rack/zebra lights/ropepacks/Acenders/lights…

**** Register HERE ****

Time is growing short-Its less than a month away-so get your tickets NOW!

**** Register HERE ****

Write up (with pictures) on 2017 Cave Cavort at Jerry Farm:

In March of 2017 the Florida Speleological Society (FSS) is hosting the annual Florida Cave Cavort. This is where cavers from all over Florida, or where-ever, convene for fun, food, music, and of course caving. This year Jerry and Sheryl Johnson are hosting the Cavort. On December 3, 2016, several FSS members came out to lend a hand on the farm with preliminary cleaning, tree trimming, fire circle building, mowing, and fence repair. This was the second workday and won’t be the last. It is always a good time on the Johnson Farm, no matter what your there for.

All photos by Jon Singley,  Story by Phil Walker.

SANTA’S HERE!! Oh, never mind, that’s Bill in a silly hat.

Kitty looking a bit like she is making a prison escape. Next cleanup we are all wearing stripped clothing and iron balls on our feet.

Notice all the adults grunting, lifting, and working. Then notice the one young girl standing and watching. This has to be against parent labor laws.

Sherl taking a break.

In some places people say Hello, Good Day, Hi, or even “Dear”( if writing a letter). Here in the south everyone just says “Hey.” At least we don’t have to sniff butts.

Bernice has the best’est of the Bistro’s.

Just standing around shooting the bull, or the donkey.

Chuck resting the dogs.

The new climbing tower with a Stonehenge of poles.

Looking like a home depot model, Steve works on the climbing tower.

Chuck and Phil repair the fence under the watchful orange eye of a very odd looking Quality Assurance Representative.

There’s an ARY in the tree. Okay, we’ll cut out the dry humor.

Jason and Mike talking Christmas cheer.

Oh Oh…maybe no one will notice all the cookies are missing.

Bill is the happiest roofer ever.

Are you thinking of the theme song from “Sanford and Son” or the “Beverly Hillbilly’s?”

I wonder what a Rock Legend would drill for in Florida? Maybe this is how we can get a few more caves for the Cavort.

Well, that’s all folks.

Every year cavers from Florida form a traditional gathering. This is for cavers young and old, experienced or inexperienced, in state or out, everyone is welcome.  This year the Tampa Bay Grotto (T-Bag) hosted the “Fresh squeezed, premium, all natural Florida Cave Cavort during the final weekend of March.

Steve Adams and the entire Tampa Bay crew did a fantastic job organizing the event. Big thanks to Ray and Sharron Thornton who allowed Tampa Bay to use their beautiful property on the banks of the Withlacoochee River for three days.  The weather was not particularly kind this year, but that did not put a damper on the festivities.  There was good caving, kayaking, mountain biking, diving, hiking, food, camping, zip lining, tree climbing, and just hanging out.  There was something for everyone. This year the band

151 Rocks played their hearts out at the Saturday bonfire.

Every year the Cavort gets better and better–in part due to activities, location, and fantastic planning.  However, the comradery of cavers is what really makes it great.  Thanks to everyone who came out for a great time.

Thanks to Jon Singly for documenting the fun with

photo’s posted on the Tampa Bays website.

As March 2013 approached cavers across Florida and the southeastern United States make last minute plans of escaping for the weekend. Some make lists of what to bring, others scramble to finish work. Finally, just prior to the second weekend of March cavers load vehicles to maximum capacity and head for Jerry’s Ranch in Williston Florida.

Excitement builds as one pulls up the long drive to see Mike, Kitty, and Steve at the airstream trailer registration booth. Familiar faces are seen everywhere–a little chat here, a little chat there, then finally you set up camp. Some of these people haven’t been seen in a year or more, yet it seems like yesterday.

There are always new folks to keep things fresh in addition to caving icons that always have new stories. Trips leave for caves around the area, making an empty camp, except for a few that catch up on old times or just relax in the mid-day sun.

After a great day of exploring caves everyone comes back to camp. Donning clean clothes, after a heavenly hot shower, one meanders up to the homestead to be served an exquisite meal by Jerry, Cheryl, and Bernice. It doesn’t get any better than Great food, Great service, and Great times.

After dinner and a little bit of relaxation, everyone heads to the bonfire area. The fire is lit and the party begins. Crossroads hits the stage playing blues, rock, county, and anything that is suggested. People huddle around the fire tapping feet, chatting with old friends, sharing comradely and enjoy the evening as the temperature drops.

The last day is the hardest–little tired, little hungover, little sore, but a very happy. Breakfast is served once again by the ‘bestest’ host in town–Jerry and company. Goodbyes are said, vehicles packed, numbers exchanged and the journey home is begun with some friendships renewed, and new friendships begun.

Thanks to everyone who made it out, and everyone that helped out to make a GREAT CAVORT!

All photos by Jon Singley, story by Philip Walker.

Photos By Sean Roberts

The

2009 Florida Cave Cavort was hosted by the FSS on the weekend of March 7, 2009. The Cave Cavort was held at Jerry Johnson’s property near Williston and here are a few pictures from the festivities on Saturday night.

After two years of Covid precautions-things are moving forward. Two things that had been put on hold were the Florida Cave Cavort and a new pole barn. Fortunately, now the time was right. The forecast was for a beautiful day on February 26, 2022. It was only one week before the Cavort, but the supplies finally arrived and the crew was ready. FSS members Sean and Doug Prior enlisted the help of their father: Jimmy Prior, who has no interest in caving, but knows how to plan and build. The Prior family went to work like a smoothly oiled machine-while the rest of us helped or did whatever to finish up the site.

As morning turned to afternoon-the barn had made a lot of progress. The father and sons ‘Prior’ team worked like clockwork.

Who knows what they did prior to today, but today (Feb 26th) the entire Prior family worked their $#&*! off!

Thanks to everyone that came out and helped for the day. The Florida Speleological Society (FSS) and all Florida Cavers owe Jimmy Prior and his two sons Sean and Doug a huge thanks for dedicating an entire weekend to building the pole barn. Also, thanks to the River City Grotto (RCG) for doing a fundraiser and donating the money for pole barn parts and materials. We now have a great structure out on Jerry’s Farm for bands, camping, and climbing classes.

Story by Philip Walker

After the holidays and a little time off, it wasn’t long before the FSS was back
to doing what it does best. Gathering its forces and pitching in when and where
the need arises. So when the call came out from one of our veteran cavers, John
Harris, that we needed to spend some time at one of our grottos senior members
house, Bill Oldacre, and lend him

a hand with some roof and yard work, the response
was swift.
Most cavers are aware that Bill Oldacre is synonymous with Warrens cave preserve.

Any of us who have been through Warrens cave owes a debt of gratitude to him and
others of his caving generation for the dedication and persistance that made the
protection and access of Florida’s longest dry cave possible.

Over the years Bill has been troubled with health problems. His wife Shirley and

he did what they could to maintain

their property and their storm damaged roof.
Thats when John stepped in and offered the grottos long overdue assistance. He
brought the matter to our attention on Thursday night at the meeting and the work
began on Friday and was resumed on Sunday and Tuesday. A dozen or so of us met at
Bills on Saturday to tackle the roof. Everyone was happy to pitch in where they
could. Bernice and Steve Nemeth laid out a spread for lunch and fed us during our
break. The weather was great and the work got done fast. Bill and Shirley were
great hosts. Kitty saw the opportunity to interview Bill for an article in our
upcomming cavort guidebook. It was good to see him and hear his laugh.

As a caver, I was proud to be working side by side with my friends on this project.
I believe we all shared a feeling of accomplishment when we left. I would have
liked to have been there

on Tuesday to help finish up the job. Hopefully, I can
help the next time we head out to Bill and Shirley’s.
Thanks Bill and Shirley for allowing us to help. Thanks are also in order to John
Harris for taking charge and mobilizing the troops who i won’t bother naming in fear
of leaving someone out. You all know who you are. Thanks again for the huge effort
and once again showing what the FSS stands for.

Article by Mike Gorden and Kitty Markley

All photo’s by Jon Singley

Bernice and John chatting over lunch.

John takes charge.

Mike lending a helping hand.

See Steve saw.

Kitty interviews Bill.

Sitting down for a bit to eat.
(Steve, Kitty, Mike, Bill B, Buford)

Staying hydrated.
(Al, Bernice, and Lisa)