Sand bagging machine helps with hurricane prep

Floridians are no stranger to the stress of hurricane preparation. Temple Terrace has plans to make it easier.

The city’s public works department has begun using a new tool called the Sandbagger Ultimate Bagger Machine which speeds up sandbag production. In previous years, it took a team of 12 employees to make sandbags by hand. With this new machine, only three workers are needed.

“This machine is completely automated,” said Jason Warrenfeltz, Temple Terrace Public Works Director. “Once the sand is put into the machine, it weighs it, bags it, ties it, sews it shut, and then sends it off the conveyor belt for easy stacking.”

With less effort needed for the sandbags, staff will have more time to focus on other hurricane preparations such as debris removal and securing construction sites.

“Before, we were doing about ten sandbags in fifteen minutes, this will increase our speed and our volume tremendously,” said Mike Faaborg with Temple Terrace public grounds.

If the city issues an emergency declaration, residents will be able to pick up sandbags free of charge. Each household can receive up to ten sandbags at the Temple Terrace Youth Sports Complex.

Hurricane & Disaster Information | Temple Terrace, FL – Official Website

Eagle mating season is here

October 1 marked the start of eagle mating season, drawing viewers to the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, where fans can watch a mated pair of bald eagles in real time.

Four cameras capture different angles of the nest, including a 360-degree view which offers an up-close look at the lives of the popular eagles M-15 and F-23, who are entering their third year as a mated pair on camera.

Viewers can watch the live feed on the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam website.

Southwest Florida Eagle Cam – Live American Bald Eagle cam

CREDITS:

Producer: Anthony Truscello

Anchors: Emma Brockman, Seth O’Neil

Floor Director: Aiden Poff

Web Editor: Jayden Fernandez

CG: Jada Knobloch

Tech Director: Lia Marsee

Editor: Luana Schneider

Socials: Giovanna Chitto

Camera: Madison Gotham

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Stephanie Anderson

Graduate Assistant: Grace Ficara