FEATURES
FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE / ISSUE VOL. 4 • NO. 4
ON THE COVER: Covington Farm, a wedding and event venue at 75-acre horse ranch—layered in luscious green grass mixed with a blanket of colorful, sweet swaying wildflowers—in Dade City, in Pasco County, Florida. Photo by Rabecca Cruz Photography. Read more on page 32.
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Exploring the Lure of Green Cove Springs
Clay County City Oozes a Taste of the Sunshine State’s Hidden History
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Where Dreams Come True Dade City’s Covington Farm Hosts Weddings and Other Fun Events
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DEPARTMENTS FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE / ISSUE VOL. 4 • NO. 4
FCM CIRCLE
FLORIDA CHARM
A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER
DRIVE-IN THEATERS' ICONIC COMEBACK
page 8
page 48
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FLORIDA 4-H
NOT-SO-ORDINARY SITES FOR VISITORS, LOCALS
FLORIDA 4-H VIRTUAL POULTRY CLUB DEBUTS
page 50
page 10
PICTURE PERFECT
HORSIN' AROUND
ONCE A SECRET, MOUNTAIN HORSES ARE NOW HIGHLY DESIRED
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page 54
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FLORIDA’S ‘FIRST BILLBOARDS’
COUNTRY CALIBER
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SUCH A SWEETHEART! MEET SALLY KEMPFER
WILD FLORIDA
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SEEING RED
page 62
FLORIDA HARVEST FARM N 4U READIES FOR NEWEST BRIGHT-RED ‘JEWELS’
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MY BEST FRIEND
page 66
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A GOOD PUFF AWAY FROM IT ALL
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CROSSWORD
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page 71
THE RANCH
TRUCKS & TOYS
FLORIDA’S FAMOUS WHIP-POPPING FAMILY
GETTING BURIED AT THE GRAVEYARD
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page 39
page 72
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FLORIDA EXCURSIONS
THE CULINARY CRACKER
WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN
GATORLAND DEBUTS ‘SOCIAL DISTANCING SKUNK APE’
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TELLING TALES
FLORIDA’S LONGEST RIVER OFFERS SOMETHING TO LONG FOR
GATORS I HAVE KNOWN
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page 80
page 44
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STARS & GUITARS
MEET JON PARDI
THE BRAND
TALKING BEEF WITH MARTY SMITH
FLORIDA MEMORIES
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Owner/Publisher Scarlett Redenius Owner/C.E.O. Brad Redenius President Thomas Fifield Vice President Sheila Fifield Editorial Director Jack Collier Design Director Brian Stromlund Director of Photography Marsay Johnson Proofreader Katherine Waters Contributing Writers Dale Bliss, Brenda Eubanks Burnette, Christopher Decubellis, Ava Grace, Kathy Ann Gregg, Kym Rouse Holzwart, Dave Kelly, Katey McClenny, Myles Mellor, Kaydan Strickland, Paul Thurman, Ph.D., Norm Zeigler Featured Photographers Christy Buchanan, Ashley Cannon, David Carrier, Julie Conover, Heather Blount Dery, Trevor Green, Kathy Ann Gregg, Keith Grimes, Melissa Grimes, Claudia Harris, Dave Kelly, June Kennedy, Angelina Lanphere, David Martin, Mike Masin, Michelle McLeod, Matt Padgett, Kristina Rodriguez, Claudia Santiago, Shawn Speaks, Stephen Staton, Tara Stone, Amy Stotler, Kayden Strickland, Jim Wright, Tracie Zamora For more information about advertising with Florida Country Magazine, or joining our regional sales team, please contact:
239-692-2613 sales@floridacountrymagazine.com For other inquiries contact:
Scarlett Redenius, Publisher 239-600-4783 Published by: Florida Country Publications
PO Box 50989 • Fort Myers, FL 33994 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
facebook.com/floridacountrymagazine F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M Florida Country Magazine is published bi-monthly, copyright 2020, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by expressed written permission of the publisher.
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All articles, descriptions and suggestions in this magazine are merely expression of opinions from contributors and advertisers and do not constitute the opinion of the publisher, editor or staff of Florida Country Magazine, and under no circumstances constitutes assurances or guarantees concerning the quality of any service or product. Florida Country Magazine specifically disclaims any liability related to these expressions and opinions. Florida Country Magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited submissions. The advertiser agrees to hold harmless and indemnify the publishers from all liability.
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FCM CIRCLE
HAVING FUN, AND SUPPORTING THE ECONOMY
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hese days, it’s pretty hard to stay positive with our lives turned upside down. Florida and the rest of the universe have been bucked off one of the meanest bulls in the virus world. From health to our economy, we’ve been tossed, thrown, dragged and battered into a tailspin of uncertainty. But like any ol’ cowboy, lick your wounds, get back on the bull and ride your 8 seconds. It’s hard, I know. I’ve felt every emotion under the sun, yet at the end of the day, I’ve got to pick myself up because no one or nothing else will. Diminish the negative with positive thoughts—the silver linings. One thing I’ve learned is to slow down. In the day of go, go, go, I was finally forced to stop and breathe, which isn’t easy for a workaholic. I had no functions to attend (which were consuming my life), and now this situation has given me time to realize what events I DO want to participate in. My new rule? If I feel like you must hogtie me and drag me to the engagement—I’m out. One thing about slowing down, it gives you time to regroup and focus. I started going through older issues of Florida Country Magazine and revisiting some extraordinary places we’ve written about. From tropical excursions in the Sunshine State’s southernmost city, Key West, to real waterfalls and great hunting lodges in north Florida, our state offers a never-ending sightseeing tour. From just about anywhere in Florida, we can travel by car, truck, boat and RV, and bike, hike, horseback ride, swim, fish, go camping, get dirty in the mud and sail into the sunset. It’s a true paradise. After all, the backbone of Florida Country Magazine is based upon supporting the state’s two top-driving economic forces—tourism and agriculture. So no matter how you travel, you’re not just exploring, you’re playing an important role in kick-starting our economy. In this issue, we take you a bit south of Jacksonville to the small Clay County city of Green Cove Springs. Visit the
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historic bed-and-breakfast River Park Inn or cross the street to Spring Park, home to one of the oldest spring-fed community pools in Florida. You’ll want to climb aboard The Nepenthe and enjoy a leisurely sailing trip on the St. Johns or open sea. No matter your adventure level, Green Cove Springs oozes a taste of Florida’s hidden history. Take a trip to famed theme park and wildlife preserve Gatorland, which has taken social distancing to a new level with its very own Social Distancing Skunk Ape! And if you have gator fever, read Norm Zeigler’s “Gators I Have Known” (page 80). When you think about it, no matter if you’re purchasing FARM N 4U strawberries or Florida Sun Grown cigars, or visiting Parramore’s Fish Camp, taking a driving tour to see vintage citrus labels or fishing for redfish, you’re supporting our state’s tourism and agriculture industries. Get out with family and friends and see for yourself why snowbirds flock to the Sunshine State. Take advantage of this time to visit “Old Florida’s” secluded treasures—while still feeling safe and close to home. (When you’re ready to hop back on that airplane and cross state lines, in upcoming issues we’ll also have some great places for you to visit that are further afield.) But most importantly, support our wonderful advertisers, who make it possible for this beautiful publication to be available at no charge. Florida Country Magazine’s advertisers will help you get the job done with their equipment, decorate your house with their knickknacks, put food on your table, insure your personal possessions, purchase that dream property, and get started in agriculture. Sightsee and shop for keepsake jewelry before having a lovely night out on the town when visiting our advertisers’ memorable hotels, inns and campgrounds in counties throughout the state. We might be living in different times, but Florida Country Magazine hopes we can help by providing you with some opportunities to stay safe—while having fun. SCARLETT REDENIUS, Publisher
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FLORIDA 4-H VIRTUAL POULTRY CLUB DEBUTS DURING THESE TIMES, A NEW WAY TO EXPERIENCE A 118-YEAR-OLD IDEA
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Written by: Christopher Decubellis
ince 1902, 4-H has provided an opportunity for young people to positively develop their head, heart, hands and health in order to learn life skills that will help put them on a trajectory to thrive as adults. While originally corn and tomato clubs, today’s 4-H experiences offer young people from rural, urban and suburban walks of life the chance to explore more than 100 different projects—while learning citizenship, leadership and communication skills. All of us know that spring and summer 2020 have been unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. With social gatherings grinding to a halt, Florida 4-H came up with
Above, Blake Krier holds a chicken at her St. Lucie County home. At right, homeschooled siblings Aushtyn, Aundrue and Allessa Niro say the Florida 4-H Virtual Poultry Club "goes perfectly" with the chicken unit study they're working on.
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a way to reach out and provide programs to keep youth engaged, help them continue learning and growing, and offer a little bit of normalcy and interaction with other young people during this time. We turned to technology. Florida 4-H developed an entirely online Summer Adventures Program, with more than 40 topics for Florida youth to choose from. One of the most popular of the offerings has been the Florida 4-H Virtual Poultry Club, which currently has more than 250 members. Because of the popularity of this virtual 4-H club, we’ve decided to continue this opportunity for any young person ages 8 to 18 in Florida who has an interest in chickens or
LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF TIFFANY KRIER; RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF DENISE NIRO
FLORIDA 4-H
From left are a Cochin called Bluebell, and her chicks; Peyton and Addison DeArmond with their chickens, and another photo of Blake Krier, this time with two of her poultry friends.
parasites in birds, and a host of other topics. It is hoped that interest in this club will continue to grow. More and more people are keeping a few chickens or other poultry as a way to have fun and provide some very nutritious eggs for their family. The Florida 4-H Virtual Poultry Club will continue to explore topics of interest to any poultry en-
PHOTOS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: COURTESY OF DENISE NIRO; COURTESY OF KACIE DEARMOND; COURTESY OF TIFFANY KRIER
other poultry. The virtual club is for youths who would like to learn more about the science and art of keeping backyard poultry, starting a cottage poultry business, or exploring careers in the poultry industry. This summer, the youths in this club have been learning about the basics of hatching chicks in an incubator, feeding and caring for chicks through adult birds, managing internal and external
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FLORIDA 4-H WITH SOCIAL GATHERINGS GRINDING TO A HALT, FLORIDA 4-H CAME UP WITH A WAY TO REACH OUT AND PROVIDE PROGRAMS TO KEEP YOUTH ENGAGED, HELP THEM CONTINUE LEARNING AND GROWING, AND OFFER A LITTLE BIT OF NORMALCY AND INTERACTION WITH OTHER YOUNG PEOPLE DURING THIS TIME.
St. Lucie County resident Phoenix Krier gets up close and personal with his chick.
thusiast. And we might even plan some fun virtual poultry shows in the future—so our youths can show off their birds to their new virtual friends.
If you have a young person in your life who might be interested or who might benefit from participation in our Florida 4-H Virtual Poultry Club, please have them reach out to me at cdecube@ufl.edu. I’d love to help them sign up for the club. Together, we’ll continue to aspire to “make the best better” in our club, our community, our country and our world! FCM
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PHOTO COURTESY OF TIFFANY KRIER
Of course we can never replace the interactions and benefits of going to an in-person 4-H club, or the lifelong friendships and relationships with caring adults, volunteers and 4-H county agents that children develop in such clubs. However, this virtual 4-H club can help provide some of these experiences for youth who aren’t able to get to a regular in-person club meeting.
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HORSIN' AROUND
ONCE A SECRET, MOUNTAIN HORSES ARE NOW HIGHLY DESIRED ‘GOLDEN RETRIEVERS OF THE HORSE WORLD’ HAVE SMOOTH AND NATURAL FOUR-BEAT GAIT
ountain Horses originated in the Appalachian region of eastern Kentucky, and the history of these naturally-gaited horses has been passed down through the generations. They were developed out of necessity—beginning around the late 1800s. Because they’re comfortable and sure-footed, they were the mount of choice for traveling rugged and steep trails. Mountain Horses were used for everything: They worked hard every day to earn their keep and had to be tough, calm and versatile. They lived in humble surroundings and withstood harsh winters with minimal shelter and food. Outside the hollers of eastern Kentucky, the existence of these amazing horses was a secret for many years. During the 1980s, the world learned about Mountain Horses, which are now highly desired because of their smooth and natural four-beat gait. They possess a calm temperament, intelligence, beauty, versatility, willingness and toughness. Mountain Horses make outstanding show and trail horses, and excel in many disciplines, including endurance and competitive trail riding, mounted shooting, and working cattle. In addition to their awesome natural gait (performed at various speeds), people are attracted to their temperament. They’re the “golden retrievers of the horse world”—people pleasers that are easily trained. Because Mountain Horses are hardy, they tend to be easy keepers and long-lived. There are three main registries for Mountain Horses: the Rocky Mountain Horse Association, or RMHA; the Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse Association, or KMSHA; and the Old Kentucky Saddler (formerly known as the Mountain Pleasure Horse Association). While each was formed in the same region around the same time, they differ regarding registration and certification requirements, breed management, and values. The RMHA was formed in 1986 in Kentucky to maintain and promote the breed. It’s a member-driven registry that strives to secure the breed’s best possible future. The RMHA holds many annual events and shows, including the International Grand Championship every September at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
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Registered Rocky Mountain Horses descend from specific stallions and mares. Tradition has it that the breed originated from a stallion taken to eastern Kentucky from the Rocky Mountains about 1890. He was medium-sized, chocolate-colored with flaxen mane and tail, and possessed a superior single-foot gait. A local strain of horses developed from breeding this special stallion to eastern Kentucky saddle mares. Sam Tuttle preserved his herd, descended from mares of eastern Kentucky and the legendary Rocky Mountain stallion, through the challenging times of the early 20th century. These horses became foundation Rocky Mountain Horses before there was such thing as the RMHA. Tuttle’s extraordinary Old Tobe, a son of the Rocky Mountain stallion, is considered to be the foundation sire. To be registered, the horse must be born from two certified, DNA parentage-proven parents. For certification, the horse must be examined by three qualified examiners when it’s no younger than 23 months. It must have good temperament and conformation, no excessive white, be between 14.2 and 16 hands, and perform the natural four-beat gait. Rocky Mountain Horses may be any solid color, including shades of dun, black, chestnut and bay. Those that have the chocolate color, which is from the relatively rare silver dapple gene acting on a black coat, and flaxen mane and tail, are treasured. The KMSHA was founded in 1989 in Lexington and is more inclusive of height and color. It has similar certification standards as the RMHA, and many horses are double registered. However, KMSHA-registered horses have more variation in build and pedigree than those registered by the RMHA. The KMSHA accepts RMHA-registered horses under a “grandfather clause” because the breeds are so closely related. Certification by the KMSHA is required for breeding and show horses; an evaluation is undertaken by two qualified examiners for the natural saddle gait. Height and color are not restricted, and there is no predominant breed color. Horses with excessive white are placed in the registry of the sister Spotted Mountain Horse Association, or SMHA. The KMSHA and SMHA hold many joint events and shows yearly, including the International Grand Championship at Kentucky Horse Park every October.
PHOTOS OPPOSITE PAGE: TOP LEFT PHOTO BY KEITH GRIMES; TOP RIGHT AND BOTTOM PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA HARRIS; MIDDLE LEFT PHOTO BY MELISSA GRIMES; MIDDLE AND MIDDLE RIGHT PHOTOS BY TARA STONE
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Written by: Kym Rouse Holzwart
Mountain Horses possess a calm temperament, intelligence, beauty, versatility, willingness and toughness. Rocky Mountain Horses may be any solid color, including shades of dun, black, chestnut and bay.
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At left, Melissa and Keith Grimes started Alafia Oaks Mountain Horses in 2017 in Lithia. At right is High Voltage, of North Port-based Rolling Stone Stables. The outstanding stallion is a Rocky Mountain Horse/Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse.
The Old Kentucky Saddler/Mountain Pleasure Horse Association was also formed in 1989 and is focused on the purity of this breed as the foundation of all other American gaited breeds. This breed is small in number and listed as “critical” on the Equus Trust Survival List. This Kentucky
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heritage breed is known for its beautiful palominos. The Southern States Rocky Mountain Horse Club, or SSRMHC, is an approved regional club of the RMHA and formed in Florida in 2018. It serves Florida, Georgia,
LEFT PHOTO BY CLAUDIA HARRIS, RIGHT PHOTO BY TARA STONE
HORSIN' AROUND
Alabama and South Carolina—“and welcomes everyone.” The group holds trail rides, clinics and shows throughout the Southeast. Its annual Gaited Charity Event took place at Florida Horse Park in Ocala the past two years in February. While the majority of Mountain Horse breeders and trainers are in Kentucky, there are some Florida options: In 2017, Keith and Melissa Grimes established Alafia Oaks Mountain Horses in Lithia, in Hillsborough County, to breed and promote Mountain Horses. They typically have quality Rocky and Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse foals, geldings and mares for sale. Holy Smoke, a spectacular silver grullo Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse stallion, stands at Chris and Tara Stone’s Rolling Stone Stables in North Port, in Sarasota County. His jaw-dropping performances in the show ring have earned him numerous championships. Their breeding program also includes High Voltage, an outstanding Rocky Mountain Horse/Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse stallion. The amazing Mountain Horses bred, raised and trained by the Stones can be found throughout the U.S. and Canada, as well as in Europe. FCM
ROUNDUP Rocky Mountain Horse Association 859-644-5244, rmhorse.com, admin@rmhorse.com Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse Association 859-225-5674, kmsha.com, office@kmsha.com Old Kentucky Saddler/Mountain Pleasure Horse Association 606-768-3847, mpha-oldkentuckysaddler.com, mphareg@ymail.com Southern States Rocky Mountain Horse Club 520-873-7749, ssrmhclub.com, ssrmhclub@gmail.com Keith and Melissa Grimes’ Alafia Oaks Mountain Horses 520-873-7749, xlr8lfvn@gmail.com Chris and Tara Stone’s Rolling Stone Stables 941-786-7002, rollingstonestables@yahoo.com
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COUNTRY CALIBER
SUCH A SWEETHEART ! MEET SALLY KEMPFER THIS YEAR’S UNUSUAL COMPETITION WAS A PRIVATE EVENT, WITH LIVE STREAMING
hen the COVID-19 pandemic first hit the U.S., the Florida Cattlemen’s Association still planned on having its annual convention in 2020. But when it was forced with the tough decision to cancel the entire event, FCA Sweetheart Contest chairwoman Kim Strickland worked on having a smaller contest. After much planning and making sure everything was in place, 2020-2021 FCA Sweetheart Sally Kempfer, of Brevard County, was crowned on July 10. After months of studying and waiting, eight contestants competed in the two-day competition. Kempfer was awarded her title at the FCA
office in Kissimmee. In addition, she was named Miss Congeniality. First Runner-Up Blair Buchanon, of Polk County, and 2nd Runner-Up Katherine Harris, of Highlands County, were also crowned at the private event. In addition to the young women named above, 2020-2021’s outstanding contestants also included the following: Rachael Wallis, of Clay County; Madi McGee, of Hardee County; Chloe Bunyak, of Manatee County; Bailey McKendree, of Pasco County, and Rebecca George, of Sarasota County.
The amount of people who could attend the event was limited—to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the competition. Through live streaming on social media, Newly crowned FCA people at home were able to watch the contestants Sweetheart Sally give their PowerPoint presentations, answer Kempfer is impromptu questions, and then the virtual audience from Brevard saw the crowning of the new court. County.
Kempfer is the daughter of Henry and Heather Kempfer, and is also little sister to Hyatt. She is a junior at the University of Florida, pursuing a degree in agriculture education. A sixth-generation cattle rancher in Florida, her family owns Kempfer Cattle Co. She is also the third Brevard County young lady to win the title. Her passion for this industry runs deep and we know she’s ready to share it with y’all! After a “crazy year,” 2019-2020 FCA Sweetheart Casey Wingate, of Manatee County, gave up her title. Even though her last few months as the holder of the crown did not go as planned, because of COVID-19, she was still able to reach people through her platform. Her virtual activities included reading children's books from her family’s ranch, sharing fun at-home recipes and giving advice to the 2020 contestants. Wingate truly will remembered in FCS Sweetheart Contest history. The contestants are judged based on their communication skills, personality, poise, appearance, knowledge of the beef industry and overall impression. They are scored through two interviews, a PowerPoint presentation, written test and an impromptu question. Young women from the ages of 18 to 24 are eligible to compete for the title and each county cattlemen’s association can select one contestant to represent it. Before the contest, each contestant is required to sell raffle tickets for one of two $250 beef certificates. As another fundraiser,
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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY KAYDAN STRICKLAND
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Written by: Kaydan Strickland
Above, contestants Rachael Wallis, Madi McGee, 1st Runner-Up Blair Buchanon, Kempfer, 2nd Runner-Up Katherine Harris, Chloe Bunyak, Bailey McKendree and Rebecca George. Right, Kempfer poses with new FCA president Gene Lollis.
they also decorate lariat rope wreaths to sell in the silent auction at the annual convention. This year, the wreaths were sold in a silent auction through social media. The three judges who had the task of selecting the 2020 winner and her court were Ned Water, Vina Jean Banks and Andy Bennett. They definitely had a difficult job deciding between the eight outstanding young contestants from across the state. And the women who plan this annual contest definitely deserve to be recognized. The leader for the past 14 years, noted
earlier, is chairwoman Kim Strickland. Her co-chairs are Lindsey Wiggins, former 2011-2012 FCA Sweetheart Kaitlyn Gill and this correspondent. Each plays a role in the contest to make sure it goes perfectly. The annual sponsors are also a crucial part of the whole program. Without the sponsors, the contest could not be such a success. Keep up with 2020-2021 FCA Sweetheart Sally Kempfer during her reign by checking facebook.com/fcasweetheart/ or instagram.com/fcasweetheart/ or Snapchat @fcasweetheart. FCM
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FLORIDA HARVEST
FARM N 4U READIES FOR NEWEST BRIGHT-RED ‘JEWELS’ PLANT-CITY FAMILY FARM SHIPS ITS STRAWBERRIES THROUGHOUT EASTERN U.S. Written by: Dale Bliss
Lance Ham, born and raised in Plant City in Hillsborough County, Florida, has been farming strawberries for about 30 years. “I just like farming. I like the diversity. Every day is a new job,” he says. Ham’s wife, Crystal, is a strong supporter of her husband. Not only does she give him moral support, she takes care of the bookkeeping, along with keeping the household running smoothly. On a regular basis, she makes the boxes that the little bright-red “jewels” call home after they’ve been harvested. She also runs a seasonal fruit stand full of fresh organic vegetables, noting: “I do my best to help where I can and whatever is needed done at the moment.” The Hams’ farm is named FARM N 4U. It is comprised of 70 acres of strong committed soil located in the heart of a small settlement that is known to locals as Knights Station. The quiet little settlement sits just north of Plant City. It gained its name decades ago when the train stopped to let off the mailbag. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences researchers at Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Balm, 30 miles south of Plant City, develop strawberry (and blueberry) cultivars for Florida farmers, including the Hams. According to UF/IFAS, the scientists “seek genetic traits that
make strawberries succulent and able to dodge diseases.” Ham explains that Aug. 1 is when he starts preparing the ground to get ready for FARM N 4U’s new crop of strawberry plants. The cover crop is ground into the dirt to help put nutrients back into the soil, the beds are raised and leveled, and then the plastic black mulch is laid. A drip system is put in place so the young plants can be fertilized and watered until they reach full maturity, and throughout the season, giving them sustenance while producing their intended produce. On Sept. 1, the young, tender plants go into the ground. In only a few weeks, they start their journey. With lots of care, good fertilizer and measured water, and under the watchful eye of such a seasoned grower, the plants will produce their bright-red berries. Pretty white-yellow blossoms will open up, giving way for “juicy jewels” to soon become the brilliantly shimmering berries they’re destined to be—and to take their rightful place in the field for harvesting. It takes about 16,000 plants to use the full capacity of each acre. “The plastic can be used for about three years,” Ham says. The plastic also serves for the spring and fall crops of jalapeño peppers that FARM N 4U produces. Ham adds, “The strawberry is a very delicate fruit to grow in Florida. You have to be very careful with the irrigation. You cannot use above-ground sprinklers. This would cause the berry to get too much water and become mushy.” FARM N 4U starts harvesting right after Thanksgiving and continues until Easter. The Hams ship their product throughout the eastern United States. During the winter months, the Sunshine State dominates the market nationwide in supplying strawberries. FCM
ROUNDUP Lance and Crystal Ham’s FARM N 4U 1330 Hams Farm Road, Plant City, Florida 813-478-9335, lanceham69@gmail.com facebook.com/FARMN4U/
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PHOTOS OPPOSITE PAGE: MIDDLE PHOTOS BY TRACIE ZAMORA; ALL OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF FARM N 4U
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ot long after one growing season is over a new one begins. Within just a few weeks, the farmer is back in the field—plowing in the cover crop, repairing equipment and getting ready for the next season.
Top, from left, are new strawberry plants, berries ready for picking, and boxed. Above, Emily Conner helps out on the farm. Below, from left, are Crystal Ham's hand-dipped berries, her greatniece Avery Knox in a strawberry milk bath, and Lance Ham and a prize-winning flat of berries.
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A GOOD PUFF AWAY FROM IT ALL FLORIDA SUN GROWN, PREMIUM CIGAR TOBACCO
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Written by: Ava Grace
owntown Orlando is the place for cigar aficionados to enjoy a fine cigar—all the while sipping on a handcrafted cocktail. This is where Corona Cigar’s original superstore lies, and it’s just a hop, skip and a jump from nearby tourist spots such as Walk Disney World and Universal Studios. As cigar lovers know, there’s nothing like enjoying a good cigar, as it offers a little time to kick back and savor the moment. Kind of like sipping on a cup of tea, only better. At the Corona Cigar Company & Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge, there is more than 5,000 square feet of humidified space that is home to more than 2 million cigars from around the world, including the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. There are literally thousands of selections, as well as lighters, humidors, cutters and cigar accessories. Plus, the Diamond Crown Lounge offers one of the world's
Jeff Borysiewicz, president and founder of Corona Cigar Company and Florida Sun Grown, believed it was possible to bring a tobacco farm to Florida. In 2013, Florida Sun Grown planted its first crop.
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largest selection of fine Cognacs, and other goodies, such as Prohibition-era whiskeys and pre-embargo Cuban rums, along with an extensive wine list. In addition to downtown Orlando, there are other great places in Florida to enjoy its fine cigars, because the Corona Cigar Company has locations in Doctor Phillips, Lake Mary and Tampa. The relaxing, calming and inviting settings of the lounges make them the perfect places to enjoy good cigars. A cigar you will want to try is one of the Florida Sun Grown cigars, such as The American by J.C. Newman Robusto Single Cigar. It sells for $16 and offers medium to full strength. Or try the Davidoff Corona Cigar Co. 20th Anniversary FSG Cigar, which commemorates the 20th anniversary of the Corona Cigar Company. It combines tobacco from the Dominican Republic and Florida Sun Grown. This beauty offers medium to full strength, for $27.
PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF FLORIDA SUN GROWN & CORONA CIGARS
THE BRAND
Enjoy a good smoke and a cocktail at the Corona Cigar Company & Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge in Orlando, home to more than 2 million cigars from around the world. Other locations are in Doctor Phillips, Lake Mary and Tampa.
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THE BRAND There are many special things about Florida Sun Grown, including its rich history, dating back nearly 175 years when Florida had a history of growing some of the world’s finest cigar tobacco, according to floridasungrown.com. Florida tobacco offers a unique flavor—thanks to the Sunshine State’s climate and growing conditions, which are not all that different from Cuba’s. The tobacco is being produced in Florida, once again, because of the president and founder of the Corona Cigar Company and Florida Sun Grown, Jeff Borysiewicz. He believed it was possible to bring a tobacco farm to Florida. In 2013, Florida Sun Grown planted its first crop, 40 years after any cigars were made with Florida tobacco. Today, seven seasons later, the tobacco is even more perfected, making for a cigar that is better than ever. “People love Florida Sun Grown cigars first and foremost because of the quality, construction and unique flavor and aroma that is distinctly derived from our exclusive Florida -grown premium cigar tobacco,” says Borysiewicz. Whether you’re a cigar novice or an experienced cigar smoker, Corona Cigar Company can help you find your next good cigar. Of course, it may suggest that you start with a flavorful Florida Sun Grown cigar. Also available online at floridasungrown.com. FCM
ROUNDUP Florida Sun Grown LLC 9701 Paso Fino Lane, Clermont, Florida 407-248-1212, floridasungrown.com info@coronacigar.com Corona Cigar Co. & Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge 127 South Orange Ave., Orlando, Florida 407-404-5344, coronacigar.com Corona Cigar Co. & Drew Estate Lounge—Doctor Phillips 7792 West Sand Lake Road, Orlando, Florida 407-248-1212; coronacigar.com Corona Cigar Co. & Montecristo Lounge 1130 Townpark Ave., Lake Mary, Florida 407-333-3453, coronacigar.com Davidoff of Geneva since 1911—Tampa 4142 West Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa, Florida 813-513-7560, coronacigar.com
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Florida
Roadtrip Series
Green Cove Springs Clay County City Oozes a Taste of the Sunshine State’s Hidden History f the summer of 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that family vacation times are best spent in Florida’s small cities and towns, where we can reconnect with each other, uncover our heritage and explore our surroundings in a safe and healthy environment. Green Cove Springs, Florida, county seat of Clay County, is the perfect destination for this type of trip. It’s nestled against the west shore of the lazy St. Johns River—known as
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one of the few rivers in the world that flows north, running in that direction for more than 300 miles. Within sight of the St. Johns and scenic Spring Park lies the River Park Inn, a quaint bed and breakfast listed in the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a Florida Heritage Site. Built in 1887 for Dr. Joseph W. Applegate when the city was establishing its reputation as the “Watering Hole for the Rich,” the inn offers a slower, softer pace typical of “Old Florida.”
PHOTO BY MATT PADGETT
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Written by: Dave Kelly
BOTTOM LEFT AND MIDDLE PHOTOS BY DAVE KELLY; BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO BY CHRISTY BUCHANAN
Travelers heading south to Green Cove Springs often visit Doctors Lake, an inlet that is somewhat brackish. Below left and middle are views of Spring Park. On the right, Hannah Haynes picks a sunflower at nearby Amazing Grace Family Farms.
Current owners Pat and Dale have kept all the 19thcentury charm and tasteful dĂŠcor of the original house while adding many of the comforts of home to embrace the weary traveler. An elevated porch, replete with classic rocking chairs and porch swings, welcomes guests and entices them to ease back and enjoy the gentle river breeze.
Each of the five guestrooms has an en suite bathroom. As the only bed and breakfast entity in the county, the River Park Inn serves up a less complicated, more genuine experience for its guests. One of the inn’s most appealing features is its proximity to beautiful Spring Park, located across the street. Tucked into the cove that gives the city
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its colorful name, the park is named after the mystical spring boil that bubbles up in its southwest corner. Water surges up from 28 feet below the surface at a constant temperature of 77 degrees. It flows out of the spring, fills the swimming pool (one of the oldest spring-fed community pools in Florida) and empties into Spring Run as it cascades to the St. Johns River some 200 feet away. The spring, community pool and lush surrounding green area are the heartbeat of Green Cove Springs, hosting many of the city’s activities throughout the year, including RiverFest each May. The extended pier and kayak/canoe launch areas encourage fishing and nature exploration, too. To experience some of this nature, we met up with Capt. Tom Johnson at the pier and climbed aboard his sailing vessel, The Nepenthe. It gets its name from Homer’s Iliad and is Greek for “a magical healing elixir of The River Park Inn, top, is a quaint bed and breakfast listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Left is Spring Park's mystical spring boil, one of the city's famed attractions.
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Green Cove Springs
TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF RIVER PARK INN; BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF CLAY COUNTY TOURISM BOARD
W ITH IN SIGHT OF THE S T. JO HNS AN D S CEN I C S P RI N G P ARK LI ES T H E RI V E R P AR K INN, A QUAIN T BED AND BREAK F AS T LI S T ED I N T H E N A T I ON AL REG I S T E R O F H ISTOR IC PL ACES AN D RECO G N I Z ED AS A F LORI DA H ERI T A GE S I T E.
TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF RIVER PARK INN; BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF CLAY COUNTY TOURISM BOARD
forgetfulness.” We experienced exactly that as we enjoyed our leisurely 4-hour trip on the St. Johns. Capt. Tom has a degree in mechanical engineering and served in the Navy’s submarine force for 12 years. He spent the better part of a dozen years building The Nepenthe—his 64foot masterpiece—from the keel up, finishing her in 2011 and setting sail. She has two masts, 17 feet of beam, a hull speed of 10 knots, and accommodates six additional passengers with cabins down below and room to spare. The Nepenthe runs everything from short sunset trips to weeks-long rentals to the islands, but the captain says his plan is to eventually sail her around the world. As soon as his 11-yearold son and hard-working first mate, Ian, is old enough to go with him, it looks likely that he’ll do just that. Just down the street from Spring Park sits historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. This quaint church, founded in 1878, is one of the few remaining “river missions” on the St. Johns and
has continuously served the local community for more than 140 years. It sits among live oaks that drip with Spanish moss and shade the small white building. The church's remarkable stained-glass windows came from the famous Colgate Art Glass Co. in New York City and are among the earliest
TH E H U B OF GREEN COVE S PRI N GS ’ P AS T LI ES I N I T S H I S T ORI C TR IANGLE, CONS IS TIN G OF THE OLD C LA Y COU N T Y C OU RT H OU S E, TH E GR E EN COVE S PRINGS TRAI N DEP OT , T H E C LA Y COU N T Y AR CH IVES , AN D THE OL D CO U N T Y J AI L. Historic photo of the inn, above, which was built in 1887 for Dr. Joseph W. Applegate. Left, Green Cove Spring's pier extends into the St. Johns River from the city's spring.
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At left is one of St. Mary's beautiful windows. Below is an interior view of the inn's entryway.
S T . MA RY’S EP I S C OP AL C H U RCH ’S R E MA RK A BLE S T A I N ED- GLA S S W I N D O W S CA ME F ROM T H E F A MOU S COLGA T E A R T GLA S S CO. I N N EW YORK C I T Y A N D A R E A MON G T H E EARLI ES T EXAMP LES O F A MERI CA N S T AI N ED G LA S S . The hub of Green Cove Springs’ past lies in its Historic Triangle. Consisting of the Old Clay County Courthouse, the Green Cove Springs Train Depot, the Clay County Archives, and the Old County Jail, the Historic Triangle highlights the unique history of the area. Today, the Italian Renaissance-style courthouse, built in the 1890s and restored to its past glory, is the home of Clay County’s Family and Teen Court.
ROUNDUP: River Park Inn 103 S. Magnolia Ave. 904-284-2994, riverparkinn.com Capt. Tom Johnson’s Nepenthe Charter Sailing 904-525-9996, nepenthe chartersailing.com
Next door to the courthouse sits the Old County Jail. The Jailer’s Quarters are the current home to the Clay County Archives, which preserve historic hard-copy records from as far back as the 1850s. But the real showcase is the jail itself. Built in 1894, it is the second-oldest jail in the state. In use up until 1972, it housed men, women, juveniles and even the mentally ill. There’s a large holding cell near the front of the jail, where the intoxicated were kept for long weekends to keep them out of any more trouble. Upstairs, tiny dark cells radiate an eerie feel in the close heat as the rust of generations falls off the iron doors. It is a wonderfully interesting place that, like Green Cove Springs itself, oozes a taste of Florida’s hidden history. FCM
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 400 St. Johns Ave. smgcs.church Green Cove Springs Historic Triangle 321 Walnut St. 904-297-7500, greencovesprings.com Amazing Grace Family Farms 2899 Wisteria Farms Road 904-284-2949, agcropmaze.com info@agcropmaze.com
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Green Cove Springs
TOP PHOTO BY KRISTINA RODRIGUEZ; BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF RIVER PARK INN
examples of American stained glass. The 18 single windows on its east and west sides were restored by parishioners in the early 2000s, with the remaining large windows on the north and south ends restored later with funds from a state historic preservation grant.
The courthouse also holds the Clay County Historical and Railroad Museum, the centerpieces of which are the original train depot and a caboose from the early 1900s. The depot showcases treasures of early 20th-century train implements, including lights, locks and keys used to signal and change tracks for arriving and departing trains.
PHOTOS BY DAVID KELLY
Clockwise from top are the Green Cove Springs Train Depot, a view from The Nepenthe, and a holding cell in the Old County Jail.
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Dylan & Michel McKinney
Where Dreams Come True Dade City’s Covington Farm Hosts Weddings and Other Fun Events Written by: Dale Bliss
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Covington Farm is a 75-acre horse ranch—layered in luscious green grass mixed with a blanket of colorful, sweet swaying wildflowers—in Dade City, in Pasco County, Florida. When asked how she found such beautiful, pristine landscaped acreage, Stalnaker says with a sweet smile: “I turned down a dirt road, came over a high hill and saw the most beautiful panoramic view I have ever seen in Florida.” She continues, “I was mesmerized by the amazing view of green pastures, two lakes, a hayfield and a perfect farmhouse. I literally said aloud, 'This is it.’ ” Within two weeks, Covington Farm became a reality for the Stalnaker family. In a short while, her father also moved in with them and everything was complete—or so they thought. Mornings were a dedicated time for Stalnaker and her father to sip piping-hot coffee while looking out over the hayfields as the horses grazed serenely without a care. Then came the afternoons, when her dad would casually wander down to Buddy Lake or Lake Pasadena and fish for specks. That was a favorite hobby of his—hoping to catch enough for supper. Relaxing on the patio in the drifting summer and autumn afternoon breezes became another daily tradition that the family members looked forward to. They enjoyed watching and listening to bluebirds, martins and sandhill cranes give a symphony of soothing and cheerful chirping while foraging for food. Needing to build a barn for the horses, Stalnaker drew a sketch of what she wanted and gave it to an architect. And to begin the decorating stage for her horses’ new home, she hoped to
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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF COVINGTON FARM WEDDINGS AND EVENTS
hat started out as a home for Bud and Barbara Stalnaker, and her then 93-year-young father, Lawdell Cannon, soon became a venue where wedding dreams come true. Barbara Stalnaker set out to find a tranquil and pleasant place to call home for her family. Little did she know of the changes that the future would bring.
Romantic backdrops for wedding photos abound at Covington Farm, which is owned by Bud and Barbara Stalnaker.
Louie & Kayla Farrell
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shop at Atlanta Merchandise Mart. But in order to be able to shop there, she had to have a Facebook page with a picture of the barn. Fortunately, her nephew Brad’s fiancée, Ally, went to work crafting such a page. Posting the hand-drawn sketch, along with photos of the lakes, flowers, fields and pastures, made what happened next quite a surprise: “Within a few days, I started receiving inquiries about renting the barn for weddings, birthday parties and reunions,” Stalnaker recalls with excitement. “I was shocked,” she continues, “and just put them off by telling them we had not even begun construction.” She discussed the turn of events with her family. Her dad reminded her that her own wedding reception was held in a barn. Thus, Covington Farm Weddings and Events became a reality.
WITHIN A FEW DAYS, I STARTED RECEIVING INQUIRIES ABOUT RENTING THE BARN FOR WEDDINGS, BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND REUNIONS.” —Covington Farm co-owner Barbara Stalnaker
On June 6, 2020, Lawdell Cannon passed away at age 97. He was the dad and granddad who mowed the fields and pastures in a manicured fashion almost every day. And he was always one of the first people who wedding guests saw and spoke to. He was also the person who drove bridal parties to the elegant-yet-warm-and-cozy barn that gives comfort, shade and customized décor to long-awaited nuptials coming to realization. And he was the one who regaled brides and grooms with a wonderful story or experienced advice—or both! Of course, Brad and Ally’s wedding was the first of many to take place at Covington Farm. The lakes, covered by heritage oaks with moss dripping from their branches, make for a romantic backdrop for photos after the ceremony. Guests stroll around the property before being led into the reception area. They enter through white barn doors, into an elegantly styled dining room. Chandeliers and bistro lights give a quiet ambiance, filled with understated romance. Weddings are not the only events that take place at the venue. The nostalgic-yet-contemporary homespun barn also is the site of fundraising events, birthday parties, photography sessions, family reunions, political meet-and-greets—and a host of other creative and fun times! FCM
Covington Farm Weddings and Events 36222 Covington Road, Dade City, Florida
813-482-7776, covingtonfarmweddingsandevents.com barbara@covingtonfarmweddingsandevents.com
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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF COVINGTON FARM WEDDINGS AND EVENTS
Barbara Stalnaker kisses her father, Lawdell Cannon, who passed away June 6, 2020. The 97-year-old lived on the farm and mowed its lovely fields and pastures in a manicured fashion almost every day.
The barn, complete with air conditioning and heating, was finished in May 2017. Brad and Ally were married there that October. They were the first bride and groom to take their vows in the newly constructed “barn and dream-come-true venue.” Cannon, Brad’s grandfather, was aglow as he watched his grandson marry at the one place on earth where Cannon wanted to be.
Brad & Ally Wade
Delbert & Magdalene Alvarado
Louie & Kayla Farrell
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FLORIDA’S FAMOUS WHIP-POPPING FAMILY WALDMANS OF HAINES CITY ARE CHAMPIONS OF THIS ANCIENT ART Written by: Kathy Ann Gregg
he year was 2003, and Mike Booth was performing at the Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City, in Hillsborough County. One of his songs was the theme from TV’s cowboy show Rawhide, so Booth took along a whip to crack during that song.
Fast forward to the year 2020—Ryan Sr. and Renee Waldman now have 11 children, and seven of them are actively involved in whip-popping. And they have no doubt that 4-year-old Cierra, 2-year-old Mirabella, and the baby, 2-month-old Alyssa, will grow up to handle whips like they are a part of themselves.
In the audience for Booth’s performance was his cousin Renee Waldman of Polk County’s Haines City, and her four children. Four-year-old Ryan Waldman II was so enthralled by the sound of that whip cracking on the stage, that he bugged cousin Mike to teach him how.
When asked why she no longer performs, Chelsea explains, “I did it for fun. When I found out that the competitions required 45 seconds of action, I decided that wasn’t for me.” But the rest of the family loves the thrill of feeling the power flow from their wrists, as the “CRACK” fills the air around them.
Soon older sister Chelsea was also swinging the rawhide, followed by younger brother Grayson. And, as the saying goes, “The rest is history!”
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Ryan II is now 21, and employed as a firefighter for the Polk County town of Dundee and city of Davenport. Although he
PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY KATHY ANN GREGG
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The Waldman family poses in front of the old schoolhouse at the Homeland Heritage Park, front row (from left) Mirabella (2), Cierra (4), Caraline (9), Makayla (7) and Isaac (11). Back row (from left) Ryan Sr. holding 2-month-old Alyssa, Renee, Grayson (19), Chelsea (23), Mariah (14), Ryan II (21), and Josiah (17).
OVER THE YEARS, THIS GROUP OF YOUNG PEOPLE HAS COLLECTED MORE THAN 50 TROPHIES FOR THEIR WHIP-POPPING CONTEST WINS.
PHOTO CREDIT INFO
Clockwise from top are Ryan II, Grayson and Josiah, at Homeland Heritage Park; 7-year-old Makayla; Ryan II, snapping a paper in strips from Grayson's mouth; and most of the siblings, with a selection of trophies.
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THE RANCH
Grayson is now 19, and he, too, has been in competitions for 11 years. In fact, these two boys raised grass-fed turkeys and chickens to sell so that they could buy their first whips, which they got from former Florida resident Robert Best. The whips they use are regular cow whips, but they have them made shorter (since they are at ground level rather than on horseback) to get the loudest effect. Following right behind Grayson is 2020 high school graduate Josiah, who has 10 years under his belt. And now the two of them are business partners in Waldman’s Lawn and Tree Service. Then there is 11-year-old Isaac, who has been competing since he was 6. Next in line are the female whip-poppers of the family: Mariah, 14, has been giving her brothers a run for their money for the past nine years. Caraline, 9, has some smooth moves, cracking the whips behind her back and underneath her feet as she jumps in the air—not bad for only three years of competing. And then there is 7-year-old Makayla, who has been involved in the sport for only a year.
THE FAMILY LOVES THE THRILL OF FEELING THE POWER FLOW FROM THEIR WRISTS, AS THE “CRACK” FILLS THE AIR AROUND THEM.
Over the years, this group of young people has collected more than 50 trophies for their whip-popping contest wins. Since they all are (or were) home-schooled, some
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have even had their senior school pictures taken with their trophies. The primary places where they have competed are the Polk County Youth Fair and the Florida Cattlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo Finals & Cowboy Heritage Festival—with an equal number of votes as to which of these two events is their favorite. They’ve also performed at Homeland Heritage Park during its cowboy weekend festivals, the Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo, and the Sunbelt Ag Expo in Moultrie, Georgia. This past January, four of them—Josiah, Mariah, Isaac and Caraline—competed in the Polk County Youth Fair whip-popping contest. The event has been included for more than 25 years, and is sponsored by Cary and Marcia Lightsey of Lightsey Cattle Company (see the April/May 2020 issue of Florida Country Magazine).
And it is standing room only in Hayman Arena in Bartow: Mariah won the Intermediate Division, Isaac the Juniors, and Josiah completed his time there by taking the Trick-Popping title. Then he was joined in the arena by Grayson and Ryan II, to treat the audience to the noise of six whips cracking the sound barrier. Where else but the great Sunshine State will you find an entire family famous for cracking whips?! FCM
PHOTOS BY KATHY ANN GREGG
Waldman family members shown whip-popping above are, from left, Mariah, Josiah and Caraline.
learned at age 4, he has been seriously competing for 11 years. And he will whip-pop whenever the opportunity arises!
THE RANCH
TALKING BEEF WITH MARTY SMITH FLORIDIAN IS PRESIDENT OF NATIONAL CATTLEMEN’S BEEF ASSOCIATION
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Written by: Katey McClenny
TOP RIGHT AND BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARTY SMITH
here is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has left repercussions in almost every industry across the nation. Specifically, the food supply chain has been directly impacted and has raised both concerns and questions among consumers. Concerning the cattle industry, the complex process of getting beef from pasture to plate has felt disruptions and left some wondering about the state of our beef supply. As stay-at-home orders were issued, consumers shifted their buying habits to predominately grocery stores and away from restaurants. The fact is that there is a big difference between cattle and beef. There are many systems and processes that take place in cattle becoming a consumable product. When disruptions happen to those processes, or sharp changes occur in purchasing habits—such as panic buying—it takes time for the system to adjust. During the height of the pandemic, fewer employees, increased sanitization protocols, and a few closures among processing plants all led to a temporary bottleneck effect in the process of turning cattle into beef. Now more than ever, the public wants to know where its food comes from. Open dialogue between producers and consumers is crucial. To clear up some questions and offer fact-based answers, I sat down (virtually) with Marty Smith, president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association—and fellow Floridian—to “talk beef.” FCM How do you think COVID-19 has affected the beef industry? MS The pandemic has adversely affected all of our
economy, and disrupted people's lives. The beef industry has likewise been impacted, particularly as restaurants have closed, and processing has been delayed. In April, we engaged a team of industry-leading economists to begin examining the economic impact. They found our industry will lose $13.6 billion as a result of the crisis. Despite these issues, demand for beef remains extremely high, and the supermarket shortages clearly show this.
Wacahoota, Florida, rancher and attorney Marty Smith, president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, is shown at top and riding on his ranch, below. Concerning the package of beef at left, "There is no substitute for USDA inspection and safety standards," Smith notes.
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FCM Recently, you had a press conference at the White House with President Trump and Vice President Pence. Can you share how that went? MS It is certainly a great honor to be invited by the president to take part in a White House press conference. It says a lot about the NCBA that we are included and recognized by the president. He is very engaging, and is extremely interested in agriculture and the ranching and beef industries. FCM At the time of this interview, many consumers are struggling to find beef in the grocery stores. Why is beef sold out or purchasing options limited? MS The pandemic has impacted a number of our packing and processing facilities, even though this has now been largely resolved. As a result, there was a substantial reduction in the number of cattle harvested and processed during April and May. This led to some temporary shortages as consumers flooded the retailers to stock up on beef. However, there continues to be a very adequate beef supply, and most of the packers and processors are in operation. We still have a backlog of cattle, and it will take several months to catch up with our supply chain. FCM What is the president and Congress doing to help farmers and ranchers? MS Throughout this process, we have worked closely with President Trump, Vice President Pence and Secretary of Agriculture Perdue. They have been particularly helpful in getting our packing plants reopened and back up to speed, and labeling them as essential workers. The president issued an executive order utilizing military authority to keep our food processing open and working
At top, this page and opposite, as stay-at-home orders were issued, consumers shifted their buying habits to mostly grocery stores and away from restaurants. "We still have a very substantial backlog of finished cattle and it will take some time to move those cattle through the process," Smith explains.
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throughout the crisis. NCBA also worked with the Department of Transportation to waive truck weights and hours of service regulations to make certain cattle could continue to move during the outbreak. In mid-April, Secretary Perdue announced that of the $9.5 billion of the CARES Act designated to the USDA, $5.1 billion in aid would be available for cattle producers. In the early stages of the pandemic, I wrote to President Trump and Secretary Perdue specifically asking for their assistance and asked them to look at the market processes which had resulted in packers and retailers receiving higher income, while ranchers and feedlot operators received much lower prices. We received a response to the letter within six hours from its delivery, and the administration continues to assist with the disparity in prices. FCM Many consumers are reaching out to purchase beef directly from producers. Do you think this is a smart move for consumers to make? MS We will continue to work with the USDA to make sure that the beef is properly and safely processed. We have the safest food processing in the entire world, and there is no substitute for USDA inspection and safety standards. FCM Why do we export beef? MS Particularly in the price-sensitive Mexican market, we sell massive amounts of variety meats and cuts which aren’t particularly popular in the U.S. market. Our export market has been the biggest growth area for beef demand, and will continue to grow as we break down more trade barriers. In fact, beef is one of the few things that the U.S. can successfully export, and we have developed tremendous markets in countries like Japan, South Korea, Mexico, etc. Lost trade would be paid by cow-calf and feedlot producers in the form of lower live and feeder cattle prices. FCM What do you expect we can see in the next few months in the beef industry? MS We will continue to see market fluctuations, particularly as our packers and processors get back up to speed. We are hopeful that Westerns can get back to a more normal volume of business, and that we can resume some of our export markets. However, we still have a very substantial backlog of finished cattle and it will take some time to move those cattle through the process. This is going to be a long road, but we’re going to continue to work together to keep our industry working and our nation fed and nourished. FCM F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M
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GATORLAND DEBUTS ‘SOCIAL DISTANCING SKUNK APE’ NEWEST ADDITION AT THE FAMED THEME PARK AND WILDLIFE PRESERVE Written by: Ava Grace
This newest addition to Gatorland is a “Social Distancing Skunk Ape.” Mark McHugh, president and chief executive officer of Gatorland, explains, “The Ape is 6 feet from fingertip to fingertip when he spreads his arms—so he is a super fun way to reinforce this important ‘6-feet apart’ safety feature with our guests.”
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“The Social Distancing Skunk Ape was a brilliant idea that was brought to life by our social media and creative teams,” notes McHugh. He adds that Gatorland officials decided that frequent announcements on park speaker systems—to remind reminding people about social distancing—would become a nuisance to guests. If park speaker systems were used, visitors to Gatorland would not be able to hear the natural sounds of the alligators and crocodiles as well. Thus, the Skunk Ape is less intrusive to the experience and a lot more fun.
Gatorland 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail Orlando, Florida 407-855-5496, gatorland.com
And while the Skunk Ape grunts, it is his sidekick “handler” who walks around with him, speaking fluent “Skunk Ape.” The handler can interpret the Skunk Ape’s grunts into enjoyable safety messages.
are in good hands.
In addition to the Skunk Ape’s reminders about maintaining social distancing, a multitude of other safety measures has been incorporated by the park. These include active cleaning at all venues throughout the day, and highly visible safety messages that are offered in fun ways—to let folks relax and enjoy the day—all the while knowing that they
Almost everything in the park has reopened, including the free-flight aviary, petting zoo, the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and the Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure. What was not open at press time were the children’s dry playground and the Jumparoo Shows that have a standing audience. Other types of shows that have bleacher seating are open but of course still maintain social distancing. “We have closed every other row in the bleachers,” explains McHugh. What guests will most certainly enjoy, in addition to all of Gatorland’s other offerings, is the upcoming Gatorpalooza event in September—with live music, vendors, games and many kinds of fun for the entire family. Be sure to check the website, gatorland.com, to find out more information about events, packages, passes and discounts, including half off the price of admission for Florida residents. Gatorland is definitely happy to have guests back again. McHugh says, “We love our Florida residents. Gatorland has been through many crises in our 70 years of business—and it is always the Florida residents that pull us out of it in the end. We are deeply woven into the fabric of our community and we say, ‘Thank you.’ ” FCM
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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF GATORLAND ORLANDO
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uests have long enjoyed hearing the deep rumbling sounds that come from the multitude of alligators and crocodiles residing at Orlando-based Gatorland, also known by its trademarked “Alligator Capital of the World” name. Recently, however, there have been a few new sounds at the 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve— the grunting sounds coming from a Skunk Ape. Yes, you heard that right: a genuine Florida Skunk Ape!
Gatorland's Skunk Ape reminds visitors about the importance of social distancing, so their experience at the theme park and wildlife preserve is just as educational and entertaining as ever!
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FLORIDA’S LONGEST RIVER OFFERS SOMETHING TO LONG FOR PARRAMORE’S FISH CAMP & FAMILY RESORT IDEALLY SITUATED ON THE ST. JOHNS RIVER omfy cabin camping. Check! Full hookups for recreational vehicles. Check! Covered boat slips. Check! Plenty of great activities! Check! Great fishing. Check! Check! Check!
Parramore’s Fish Camp & Family Resort in Astor, Florida, an unincorporated community in Lake County, is one of those places in which it’s hard to go wrong by staying there. Situated on the St. Johns River, off Morrison Island and just 3 miles south of Lake George, the camp is a great place to get away from it all—while being somewhat close to it all—Ocala National Forest
(20 miles), Daytona Beach (40 miles) and Disney World (72 miles) are not too far away. “Our resort offers both cabins and RV sites with full hookups. Additionally, we have covered and uncovered boat slips that we rent out nightly, and a boat ramp onsite,” explains Kimzey John, who owns the camp with her husband, Jordan. The 18 modern log cabins, and houses with screened patios, are perfect for singles, small groups and families. The RV camping sites are available for short-term and long-
THE BRACKISH ST. JOHN’S RIVER IS 310 MILES LONG. IT BEGINS IN INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, THEN TURNS EAST AT JACKSONVILLE AND EVENTUALLY FLOWS INTO THE ATLANTIC OCEAN. THE 44-SQUARE-MILE LAKE GEORGE IS THE SECONDLARGEST LAKE IN FLORIDA, AFTER LAKE OKEECHOBEE.
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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF PARRAMORE'S FISH CAMP & FAMILY RESORT
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Written by: Ava Grace
Guests at Parramore's enjoy rest, relaxation and great fishing. The fish camp and family resort offers cabins and RV sites with full hookups, covered and uncovered boat slips that are rented out nightly, and onsite boat ramp.
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term stays, and offer open level spaces with full hookups. Amenities are centrally located.
Many guests enjoy visiting Ocala National Forest. Located north of Orlando, it has more than 600 lakes, rivers and springs, including four major ones: Alexander Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs and Silver Glen Springs. Guests can swim, snorkel and dive year-round.
The St. Johns River has abundant wildlife and fish, and guest Wade Leffel would agree.
Camp visitors who fish the St. Johns River, which is the longest river in Florida, will find largemouth bass, crappie, bluegills, sunfish, catfish and more. Redfish, snook, flounder, striped bass and warmouth are in the river and also in nearby Lake George. In summer,
ROUNDUP Parramore's Fish Camp & Family Resort 1675 Camp South Moon Road, Astor, Florida 386-749-2721, parramorescamp.com
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sunfish, redfish, snook and spotted sea trout are commonly caught.
The brackish St. John’s River is 310 miles long. It begins in Indian River County, then turns east at Jacksonville and eventually flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The 44-square-mile Lake George is the second-largest lake in Florida, after Lake Okeechobee. In the area surrounding the camp, and on the shoreline, guests enjoy seeing deer, black bears and raccoons, along with shorebirds such as cranes. Bald eagles and hawks can often be spotted flying overhead. In the river, turtles pop their heads out of the water, and fish jump for flies. Visitors have described a trip to Parramore’s Fish Camp & Family Resort as “our weekend getaway spot” and a place offering “awesome memories as a family.” FCM
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PARRAMORE'S FISH CAMP & FAMILY RESORT
Activities range from those that guests can enjoy onsite to those a short drive away. The camp offers a pool, tennis court, basketball court, boat ramp, fishing docks, community building, playground, and camp store and laundry room.
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DRIVE-IN THEATERS' ICONIC COMEBACK CENTRAL FLORIDA CITY OF EUSTIS TO GET NEW ONE ON 72-ACRE SITE
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Written by: Ava Grace
uring the 1950s and 1960s, it wasn’t out of the ordinary for weekend nights to be spent watching a movie from the comfort of your car—with a clunky speaker hanging on the window, a bowl of popcorn on your lap and your children in the back in their PJs, curled up in blankets. It was the epitome of fun family time. At the height of it all, more than 4,000 drive-in theaters were scattered across the United States. Little by little, these
icons of American culture were dismantled and the movie experience mostly became indoors only. About 500 drive-in theaters remain throughout the nation. Yet for movie lovers who also love drive-in theaters, there is interesting news on several fronts: Drive-ins are reporting an unplanned surge in attendance because of the COVID-19 pandemic. And some new drive-in theaters are also being built. In late 2021 to early 2022, a drive-in theater, called The Lighthouse 5, will open on 72 acres in
SPENCER T. FOLMAR INITIALLY WAS LOOKING TO PURCHASE A TRADITIONAL THEATER WHEN HIS “CREATIVE LIGHT WENT ON.” HE EXPLAINS, “I DECIDED IT WOULD BE BETTER TO BUILD A NEW DRIVE-IN THEATER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA—FOR FAMILIES TO ENJOY MOVIES AND THE BEAUTIFUL FLORIDA OUTDOORS.”
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Rendering of The Lighthouse 5. The 72-acre drive-in will have five screens, a concession stand, 1950s-style diner, fine-dining experiences, shops and a convenience store.
the Lake County, Florida, city of Eustis, off County Road 44. The ambitious project hopes to become the largest drive-in movie theater in the world, and be verified by Guinness World Records.
ROUNDUP Spence TF Productions spencetf.com facebook.com/EustisTheatre/
PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF SPENCE TF PRODUCTIONS
Behind this welcome idea is Spencer T. Folmar, producer, and owner of Spence TF Productions. He is a director, founder, filmmaker and actor who is originally from the area.
Folmar initially was looking to purchase a traditional theater when his “creative light went on.” He explains, “I decided it would be better to build a new drive-in theater in central Florida—for families to enjoy movies and the beautiful Florida outdoors.”
sites for visitors who want to stay for the weekend or longer, to be able to check out everything else that central Florida has to offer.
Folmar is also chief executive officer of Veritas Theatres, with locations in Pennsylvania and Texas. He’s long been a cinematic lover and fell in love with movies when he was growing up, attending both drive-ins and single-screen indoor theaters. And The Lighthouse 5 can’t open quickly enough, because so many people are looking for ways to get out and enjoy the world while still practicing social distancing. FCM
The drive-in theater “will be just as good as remembered—and so much more!” Instead of having one screen projecting one way, there will be five screens. Thus, in every direction, the big screen can be seen. The projections will come from the “centerpiece, a 100-foot lighthouse.” In addition to a concession stand, there will be a 1950s-style diner, along with fine-dining experiences, shops and a convenience store. The sound will no longer come out of a squeaky, boxy speaker. Instead, moviegoers will tune into modern FM radio sound of the highest quality. The theater will offer new releases, classics, indies and more. To top it off, there will be camping and recreational vehicle F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M
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NOT-SO-ORDINARY SITES FOR VISITORS, LOCALS SUNSHINE STATE HAS PLACES THAT DIFFER FROM TYPICAL TOURIST TRAPS Written by: Ava Grace
MONKEY ISLAND, HOMOSASSA
In the middle of the Homosassa River lies a small island with a family of spider monkeys. Monkeys were originally taken onto the island about 40 years ago by a researcher looking to home them, and they’ve been residing there ever since.
Monkey Island is colorful—with a red-andwhite lighthouse, a yellow hut, a blue boat and, of course, the monkeys delight visitors, too. “The entire area is so beautiful and truly ‘Old Florida,’ and the monkeys are a great historic tradition to that,” explains Brent Lowman. He’s one of the owners of Florida Cracker Riverside Resort, which owns Monkey Island.
The newly renovated resort offers its Florida Cracker Monkey Bar, only about 50 feet away from Monkey Island. While resort guests enjoy their food and drink, they can sit outside and watch the monkeys climb and swing. Inset shows a spider monkey on Monkey Island, and a kayaker, left, heads toward the island. Below is the newly renovated Florida Cracker Monkey Bar, from which guests can watch the monkeys.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF BENT M. LOWMAN
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any visitors come to Florida to check out the amusement parks, beaches and nightlife. However, there are also a few places a little off the beaten path, a little obscure—and a little odd. The following is a list of a few of these cool nuggets that are worth checking out, whether you’re on vacation or already living in the Sunshine State.
TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF FABIO RODRIGUEZ, CITY OF CORAL GABLES; TOP INSET PHOTO BY TREVOR GREEN FOR VISIT FLORIDA
At left and above are views of the Venetian Pool, created in 1923 from a coral rock quarry. Inset and photo below show some of the Stiltsville shacks in waters of Biscayne National Park.
STILTSVILLE AT BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK, HOMESTEAD
In Biscayne Bay lies a part of Biscayne National Park known as Stiltsville—a series of shacks resting on stilts embedded in sand flats. The shacks’ construction began in the 1930s, when legend has it that Capt. Eddie “Crawfish" Walker built the first one. Tales of bait, beer, crawfish and illegal gambling made the shacks even more intriguing. By 1960, a total of 27 stilt shacks, accessible only by water, were standing. But Mother Nature has taken its toll. Just seven remain, and they aren’t from Stiltsville’s “heyday.” The bottom land of the stilt structures was deeded by the state to the feds as part of the park. According to the non-profit Stiltsville Trust, it now has “the responsibility to maintain the structures and make them available to the public on a permitted basis.” Interested parties should contact the park for permit info.
VENETIAN POOL, CORAL GABLES
Created in 1923 from a coral rock quarry, the Venetian Pool is filled with 820,000 gallons—fed with spring water from an underground aquifer. It is graced with two waterfalls, an in-water grotto and edged with coral. The pool ranges in temperature from 76 to 78 degrees F, and the depth is from 4 to 8 feet. (A kiddie section for children age 3 and older is 2 feet deep.) It’s no wonder that people from all over the world come to enjoy the Venetian Pool. Aquatics supervisor Jose Vilar says, “Right now, the pool has limited capacity and socialdistancing practices are in place. Masks must be worn at all times outside the pool and some areas are closed. We drain and fill the pool daily and recycle the water through the Biscayne aquifer. Please make sure to bring masks and read our rules before visiting!”
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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF GINHOL MOSIACS
Todd Ramquist and Kiaralinda created the ever-evolving "Whimzeyland," which offers opportunities for amazing photos while "it brings a smile to everybody's face."
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WHIMZEYLAND, SAFETY HARBOR
Todd Ramquist and Kiaralinda are the creators of “Whimzeyland." This ever-evolving, amazingly colorful gingerbread cottage and studio feature all kinds of interesting things that compete for your senses. More than 800 bowling balls line the garden pathways and many items are made of up-cycled materials. Included are a multi-colored mosaic sidewalk, laughing jesters and plenty more great things to photograph. “It is our house that we created for ourselves, but we love to share it with the world!” says Kiaralinda. “It brings a smile to everybody’s face cause it’s pure delight,” adds Ramquist. Visitors should note that the yard is always open to exploring but the building structures are closed. There is street parking only. A donation box is located under the gazebo. Monies raised help fund children’s art programming at the nearby Safety Harbor Art and Music Center, known as SHAMc, which the couple founded. FCM
ROUNDUP Florida Cracker Riverside Resort 5297 S. Cherokee Way, Homosassa, Florida 352-628-2474, floridacrackerriver sideresort.com Stiltsville at Biscayne National Park 9700 SW 328th St., Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, Florida 305-230-1144, nps.gov/bisc/learn/ historyculture/stiltsville.htm Venetian Pool 405 University Drive Coral Gables, Florida 305-460-5620, coralgables.com Whimzeyland 1206 3rd St. North, Safety Harbor, Florida 727-725-4018, kiaralinda.com Safety Harbor Art and Music Center (SHAMc) 706 2nd St. North, Safety Harbor, Florida 727-725-4018, safetyharborartandmusiccenter.com
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PICTURE PERFECT Photo by: Ashley Cannon
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GROWING UP
n iPhone 7 was used by Ashley Cannon, of Dunnellon, Florida, in Marion County, when she was in the cornfields at her home. “This photo was taken in our 5-acre garden that my children, Liam and Rylee Cannon, helped plant and work here at Cannon Farms,” she explains. “[The farm] is where we grow vegetables, 30-plus acres of sunflowers and watermelons for our visitors to enjoy when they come out to the farm in the spring. I love capturing moments in time—and watching my children and our crops grow—through photography.”
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UNIQUE VIEW OF THE WORLD
Photo by: Angelina Lanphere
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ildwood, Florida, resident Angelina Lanphere used a Nikon D3400 while taking photos at nearby Lake Sumter Landing in The Villages. She states, “I started professional photography by taking a chance and trying; then I found out I loved it! It brings me joy to capture a great image—whether it be of a person, animal or landscape. It helps others see a unique view of the world as well. This image, in particular, I felt like the stars aligned and this was the result. I was lucky to get such a beautiful image.”
WELL, HELLO THERE
Photo by: Amy Stotler
Photo by: Heather Blount Dery
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my Stotler, of Winter Garden, Florida, in Orange County, was at home and had her iPhone 11 Pro Max handy for this shot. Stotler reports, “I love photos to look back on and relive moments. You never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory and all you have left to look at is photos. I take a lot of pictures of my cows because sometimes you capture their personalities.”
GOOD MORNING, SUNRISE
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eather Blount Dery, of Kenansville in Osceola County, Florida, used a Galaxy S10 cellphone to take this photo at Grape Hammock Fish Camp on Lake Kissimmee. Dery notes, “I am blessed to work where I am able to take photos of God's amazing work! I have several shots like this. I love to take photos of not just morning sunrise but the great outdoors.”
Photo by: Shawn Speaks
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MIGHTY DUO
hawn Speaks, of Zephyrhills, Florida, in Pasco County, took this photo with a Canon ESO 7D and EF 75300mm lens at Dade City’s Pioneer Florida Museum and Village. Its Farm Festival features Southern Draft Horse Association pulling competitions. “I started photography about 15 years ago,” she says, “as a small hobby. By no means am I a professional. I enjoy nature photography and that’s what I mainly take photos of, but I love going to historical Civil War re-enactments. … And last but not least, draft horse competition is one of my favorites. To see the strength of these horses pulling carts is amazing—showing through their leg and chest muscles—and, trying to keep up with one, is also a feat in itself.”
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Photo by: Claudia Santiago
A FISHING FIRST his was the first time my son, Julian Rupert, got to catch some peacock bass—and he loved it!!” exclaims Claudia Santiago. The resident of Punta Gorda, Florida, in Charlotte County, had her iPhone along during the family’s fishing excursion in the Everglades.
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WATER BABY
aples, Florida, resident Juli Conover shot this image with an iPhone Xs Max in her granddaughter’s backyard in Naples. She says, “My granddaughter, Avery Mae Conover, is 100 percent personality and always has a smile on her face. I am not a professional photographer, but I always have my phone/camera with me to capture precious moments like this.”
Photo by: Juli Conover
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Photo by: Michelle McLeod
‘CAPTURING A MOMENT FOR LIFE’
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Nikon D750 with a 50mm lens was employed by Michelle McLeod, of Okeechobee, Florida, to snap this shot in her backyard. McLeod explains, “During the stay-athome safety notice, my husband and I decided to teach our kids to garden and my daughter Makaylee took it very seriously. … When I saw her in her garden wardrobe and an array of scissors, trying to give the garden a fresh new cut, I couldn't get upset. I immediately saw a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take a few epic shots that I didn't want to pass up. Photography to me has always meant ‘capturing a moment for life.’ If we have those captures, it brings those moments to life!
IS IT LUNCH YET, MOMMY?
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ape Coral, Florida’s Mike Masin had his Nikon D750 with him while taking photos in Venice Area Audubon Rookery in Sarasota County. “It was nesting season, and the rookery was busy,” he says. “I was watching a few birds through binoculars, and this one kept looking down at the nest and dipping into it. I couldn’t see into the nest, but I set my focus on it and started shooting, hoping that a head or two would pop up. I didn’t see the chicks until later when I reviewed the shoot.”
Photo by: Mike Masin
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FLORIDA’S ‘FIRST BILLBOARDS’ CITRUS LABEL TOUR EXPANDS THROUGHOUT SUNSHINE STATE everal years ago, a friend contacted me about an idea involving citrus crate labels that was put forth to Polk County’s History and Heritage Committee by Harriet Rust, director of the Davenport Historical Society. The friend knew I’d be interested as I’ve co-authored two books on the subject with Orlando citrus grower Jerry Chicone Jr.—Florida Citrus Crate Labels: An Illustrated History and Florida’s First Billboards: Florida Citrus Crate Labels. In addition, I’m executive director of the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame, which works in partnership with Florida Southern College’s McKay Archives Center in Lakeland. The idea involving citrus crate labels was based upon the Quilt Trails project in the Carolinas, and the thought was to create a similar history trail in Florida’s Polk County, using citrus crate labels. I was immediately on board and wanted to use Polk County as the flagship program to eventually expand
the concept throughout the state. Therefore, a partnership between the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame, Visit Central Florida, and the Polk County History Center’s History and Heritage Trail inspired the creation of the Citrus Label Tour of Polk County. This unique driving tour experience explores part of the historic marketing of citrus through the artistic labels that once adorned the old wooden crates used to ship the fresh fruit off to Northern markets in the early 1900s. More than 50 enlarged reproductions of these vintage labels have been placed on various buildings and sites throughout every municipality in Polk County, and an informational brochure and map is currently in production. Each carefully selected citrus label displayed represents the history of the land, the building, the family or the historic site in relation to the citrus industry. A brief history of each label, its design, utility and artistry will be in-
MORE THAN 50 ENLARGED REPRODUCTIONS OF THESE VINTAGE LABELS HAVE BEEN PLACED ON VARIOUS BUILDINGS AND SITES THROUGHOUT EVERY MUNICIPALITY IN POLK COUNTY, AND AN INFORMATIONAL BROCHURE AND MAP IS CURRENTLY IN PRODUCTION.
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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF CITRUS LABEL TOUR POLK COUNTY
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Written by: Brenda Eubanks Burnette
More than 50 enlarged reproductions of vintage Florida citrus crate labels have been placed on various buildings and sites throughout every municipality in Polk County.
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FLORIDA MEMORIES cluded on the driving tour map and will encourage visitors to go off the beaten path and explore some of the beautiful backroads of Florida. What started in the 1500s with Spanish explorers successfully introducing the fruit to Florida soil blossomed into an industry worth billions of dollars. Historically, Polk County was the epicenter of Florida’s citrus industry. However, freezes, disease and development have combined to move the citrus industry further into Southwest Florida. Yet the heritage created by this culture is embedded in local history everywhere. Several more counties have started to adopt this program, including those of Manatee, Indian River and Lake, with additional presentations to interested groups scheduled through the end of the year. The mission of the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame is to recognize those distinguished leaders who’ve made significant contributions to the industry, and to preserve and share the rich heritage of Florida citrus. To this end, we’re also deeply involved with and committed to an outreach program to tell the story of citrus and highlight the people who’ve done so much to make the industry a dynamic force in Florida.
The goal is for residents and visitors all over the state to be able to get a glimpse of these colorful pieces of our past and learn about what many people refer to as “the golden era of the Florida citrus industry.” I’ve always called the citrus crate labels “Florida’s first billboards”—because the artwork often reflected Florida sites and scenes. Civic groups, government groups and companies interested in learning about citrus labels in their regions of the state, via our outreach program, should contact me and I’ll set up a presentation. Call 561-351-4314 or email BBurne1003@aol.com. For further info on the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame and its nearly 200 inductees, or to see our digital database of more than 1,500 citrus crate labels, 500-plus postcards and more than 300 photographic images of the industry, visit our website at floridacitrushalloffame.com. FCM
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITRUS LABEL TOUR POLK COUNTY
We’d like your help to accomplish this outreach mission and help us carry forward the fantastic story of Florida citrus by embracing this historical snapshot of Florida’s No. 1 agricultural industry. We’re hopeful the Citrus Label Tour concept will continue to grow throughout the Sunshine State!
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SEEING RED REDFISH ARE WORTHY ADVERSARIES FOR ANGLERS OF ALL TYPES Written by: Paul Thurman, Ph.D.
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edfish—reds, red drum, spot tail bass or any of dozens of other common names for them—are quite possibly the premier inshore fishery species in Florida. They aren’t as flashy as thrilling tarpon, but they’re found throughout the Sunshine State on the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, are very abundant, great to eat and not particularly difficult to hook. However, landing large individuals in some areas can be another story!
Redfish can be found and fished for in a variety of habitats throughout the inshore waters of Florida. They can frequently be spotted cruising along oyster bars or flats—searching for shrimp and crabs on the bottom, with the tips of their tails giving away their location to the observant angler. Other times they can be found around docks, bridges or any other sort of structure, mangroves, tidal creeks and salt marshes. In short, if there is water and bait around—you just might catch a redfish.
Outdoor writer and fly shop owner Norm Zeigler holds a redfish caught on a fly along Sanibel's Gulf shoreline. The oyster bar below, off St. Marks, is prime redfish habitat.
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REDFISH ARE VERY ABUNDANT, GREAT TO EAT AND NOT PARTICULARLY DIFFICULT TO HOOK. HOWEVER, LANDING LARGE INDIVIDUALS IN SOME AREAS CAN BE ANOTHER STORY!
BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN; TOP PHOTO COURTESY OF NORM ZEIGLER
For many reasons, redfish provide one of the most consistent fishing opportunities in coastal Florida. As noted, they’re abundant, will readily eat most bait (live, dead, cut and artificial) and are not particularly sensitive to changes in seasons.
Reds aren’t particular about what they eat, either. Many a redfish has been caught on live shrimp, pinfish, scaled sardines, etc. Many have also been caught on fresh cut bait such as mullet chunks. Whatever natural bait you use, just make sure it’s fresh. I’ve never found old bait to be good for anything more than hardhead catfish. Artificial bait can be equally effective. Countless versions of jigs, plugs and flies can be used to catch redfish, not to mention the legendary gold spoon. As far as what size tackle to use, that gets a little bit more complicated, but not by much. The size of tackle depends primarily on what size fish you’re targeting, what size fish are around, and where you are fishing. The author caught this redfish last year in Apalachee Bay. Below, the bay's saltmarsh habitat is perfect for finding redfish.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN
While most redfish are of moderate size, they can turn into brutes. The Florida state record redfish is more than 52 pounds and was caught in 1996. Last summer, in Apalachee Bay, we didn’t catch any at our spot that were less than 40 inches.
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IN SHORT, IF THERE IS WATER AND BAIT AROUND—YOU JUST MIGHT CATCH A REDFISH. Another redfish caught last year in Apalachee Bay. The bay's tidal creeks, below, are full of redfish.
When fishing around docks, bridges and mangroves, I scale up my tackle considerably. Redfish are strong and will pretty quickly wrap your line around anything they can, so you need to be able to stop them quickly. The new braided lines can help, but I’m old fashioned and prefer monofilament. Another popular option is to sight fish for reds using a fly rod. In most cases a 7- or 8-weight setup will suffice. Unlike many other species, redfish are not a seasonal species. Autumn, however, does provide some interesting opportunities when the reds begin schooling on the flats prior to spawning. Don’t be surprised to see schools of thousands or more. They’re easy to find because so many large fish move
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a lot of water. In addition, some of the best fishing can be found during extreme winter or summer temperatures. Redfish are unique among many recreationally and commercially important species in that they provide a true recovery success story: In the 1980s, chef Paul Prudhomme popularized blackened redfish. The dish’s success became so great that by the late 1980s, redfish were overfished and became a rarity. Florida enacted several emergency fishery closures and implemented other regulations on the species. Since then, the population has exploded. In fact, many anglers are now of the opinion that the redfish fishery is better than it has ever been—barring recent closures because of the high mortality associated with prolonged red tide on the southern Gulf Coast. As always, check your local fishing regulations for size and bag limits, in addition to any seasonal closures. Good luck and tight lines! FCM
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN
If you’re fishing on the flats with no vertical structure nearby, you can go with tackle as light as you want—as long as you have enough line for potentially long runs. My typical flats setup is a size 4000 spinning reel on a 7-foot rod, with 6- or 8-pound test. With such light line, I use a 25-pound fluorocarbon leader about 3 feet in length.
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MY BEST FRIEND Florida Country Magazine runs a “My Best Friend” contest on Facebook every other month, for each issue of the magazine.
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Kortney Norris and Jonathan Howell of Port Charlotte, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Beau Best Friend’s Breed: American Bully Beau is our sidekick and best friend. He loves taking rides on the side-by-side, hanging out with his herd of goat friends and squirrel hunting with his human “dad.”
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Angel Wilemon of Gainesville, Florida Best Friend’s Names: Mayhem Best Friend’s Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier Mayhem came into our life at a very difficult time after losing a pet due to a coral snake bite—and has helped us all heal. He is a big goofball, stage 5 clinger and always wagging his tail. He is the “bestest” friend we could have ever asked for.
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Wade and Jessica Blair of Jacksonville, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Tater Blair Best Friend’s Breed: Hound mix Tater was the perfect constant companion, who loved unconditionally always! She had the sweetest, caring soul and would always make sure everyone was OK physically and emotionally. It was utterly amazing to watch her work her magic when someone was feeling down. I (her “dad”) enjoyed her company for 15-plus years and she made an impression on my life that I will cherish forever!
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Oaklee Holland of Fruitland Park, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Bubbles Best Friend’s Breed: Miniature horse “Mom” Ashley Holland reports that daughter Oaklee and Bubbles have learned so much together in the
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Meridyth Maples of New Smyrna Beach, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Winnie Best Friend’s Breed: Charolais X To me, Winnie means accomplishment! She was my first show calf and building a friendship was challenging at first. Sometimes I felt like giving up, but once I knew I could trust her and she knew she could trust me, we became best friends. Now all she has to do is hear me calling her name and she comes running for a snack or a brushing. I'm proud of myself for sticking with her.
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5 short year and half they have been riding together. Bubbles is Oaklee’s first horse. They are learning to run barrels right now!
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Sandy McMillan of Fort Myers, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Hogs Benidorm, aka Beni Best Friend’s Breed: Greyhound June Kennedy took this photo of my retired racing greyhound Hogs Benidorm, aka Beni. My heart broke the day I lost my “dog of a lifetime”—Bodey—
but Beni’s been an angel in disguise and has brought me much joy. At the track kennel, the days were long, dirty and exhausting, but I’ve never done more gratifying work. I couldn’t wait to get there an hour before daylight every morning to see Beni make his way through 30-plus other dogs to get to me just to say hello. I love every one of them, as all the trainers and handlers do, but there was something special about Beni. I had no clue the day this picture was taken that he’d get retired and end up in my care. I like to think my Bodey sent him to me.
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STARS & GUITARS presented by
OUR INTERVIEW: ANY TOUR IS A FAVORITE, MISSING THE ROAD, FANS MEAN EVERYTHING
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lorida Country Magazine interviewed country music singer, songwriter and record producer Jon Pardi, who recently premiered his “Ain’t Always the Cowboy” music video. The song is from Heartache Medication, double nominated as a 2020 ACM Album of the Year in the artist and producer categories. Pardi was 2017's CMA New Artist of the Year and ACM New Male Vocalist of the Year, and released California Sunrise in 2016 and Write You a Song in 2014. Pardi’s website, jonpardi.com, states, “Pardi has found a whole chain of believers in his mission: the dedicated band behind him, the foot-stomping fans with cold beers at the
FCM How old were you when you wrote your first song? What was it about? JP I was 12 and somehow had a girlfriend that left me. I wrote, “You left me in the deep blue sea.” I know—groundbreaking, inspirational, some say a masterpiece. No, I really did not write great songs; I'll take it back. When I was 14, I wrote some cool songs and I had some cool riffs. FCM When did you know you wanted to pursue being a country music singer? JP [When] I was 7 years old I wanted to be a country singer. … But when I knew I wanted to do it professionally, I was 18. I made my mind up after high school to go to Nashville. But I didn't move to Nashville until I was 22. FCM What was the first thing you did when you arrived in Nashville? JP Drive around, kind of get to know a spot. I grew up in a neighborhood surrounded by just farm fields. I was used to just driving around out in the country. [Then] I was driving around in a big city, kind of learning the spots and seeing where I was. FCM How’d you feel the first time you heard yourself on the radio? Where were you? JP When I first heard—doesn't matter if it's first or right now—whenever I hear me on the radio, it's like, yeah, I’m doing it. And I still got such a long way to go. It never gets old. The first time, we're driving around the country and I've never heard my song on the radio. We were at a truck stop and, “Finally, I hear my song.” It sounds selfish but radio touring is grueling. When you're a new artist, most of your songs are being played at 3 a.m. … I worked so hard to get played on the radio. So when I hear myself on the radio, it's always a celebration. FCM What does the song “Ain’t Always the Cowboy” symbolize? JP It’s a chasing dreams song, for girls. I feel like women are more powerful than they've ever been. That's awesome. This song puts that in a kind of anthem—where the guy is happy, the girl's going to get it, she's gonna go somewhere and do something big. FCM You’ve toured with lots of big-name acts. Your favorite? JP My favorite tour is any tour. But me and Dierks [Bentley] have a special thing. We had a lot of fun with Dierks on the three tours I toured with him. One of my funnest memories was his Seven Peaks Fest in Colorado. FCM Who’s funnier, Luke Bryan or Thomas Rhett? JP Luke Bryan is one of the funniest dudes on the planet. Hilarious. You can't even get into what comes out of that guy's mouth.
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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTEY OF JON PARDI
MEET JON PARDI
foot of the stage, and a label [Capitol Nashville] that knows Pardi’s ‘throwback’ sound is really made for these times.” Read on for the 35-year-old’s reflections on life so far, and his thoughts about “these times”:
PARDI HAS FOUND A WHOLE CHAIN OF BELIEVERS IN HIS MISSION: THE DEDICATED BAND BEHIND HIM, THE FOOTSTOMPING FANS WITH COLD BEERS AT THE FOOT OF THE STAGE, AND A LABEL [CAPITOL NASHVILLE] THAT KNOWS PARDI’S ‘THROWBACK’ SOUND IS REALLY MADE FOR THESE TIMES.”
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STARS & GUITARS He's a great guy, super funny; makes me happy every time I see him. And Thomas Rhett is really funny. He's real dry but very serious at the same time. Thomas has laser-beam focus. Me and Luke are just like, “Let's get a drink.” FCM Who’s given you the best advice during your musical journey? JP I would have to say Jason Hairston. He told me, “It’s not going to happen in Dixon, California.” (Laughs)—I need to get my ass to Nashville. That really helped. A lot of my friends back home pushed me to go to Nashville. Also, Luke [Bryan]. “Missing You Crazy” was my first single; it was a fight to get to the top. It got to 28 … then it wasn’t really working for me. Luke asked what was wrong. I said something about a single; he says (in a Luke Bryan voice), “Buddy, longer it takes, more time you get to figure it out.” It really meant something to me because I figured it out finally. And now those words. Definitely, I won't forget that.
FCM You’re not just a singer/songwriter, but a true cowboy … How’s that prepared you for your country music journey? JP I think the cowboy lifestyle was brought to my mind through country music, through guys like Alan Jackson and George Strait. Cowboy hats, being around cattle ranchers, kind of all sealed together with the country music in the western lifestyle. … But everybody’s a country singer until you get into the big pond—where you kind of have to fight. There's a lot that comes with being a country singer. FCM What’s it like to sing on stage when your fans sing along? What do your fans mean to you? JP In my college band, I remember when I wrote an original album and people would start to sing along and that was so fun. It was like adrenaline rushing, even in a little bar in northern California. I remember the first time I heard “Head Over Boots” sung back by probably 30,000 people at Watershed Festival in Washington, outside Seattle. Unexplainable feeling, awesome. My fans mean everything. They give me happiness when I'm sad. They make me feel like all the hard work I put in is worth it. FCM
PHOTO BY JIM WRIGHT
FCM During social distancing, what have you enjoyed most and missed most? JP I’ve got the 15 acres and 40 acres down the road. I've got a great sponsorship by CASE [Construction Equipment]. I'm getting stuff done I couldn't do on the road. Write songs, focus on music and dream about playing. I miss concerts. This time last year, I was so
burned out. Well, touring ended this year and I miss it. But it's been nice to kind of just chill out. I get to hang with the dogs. My dogs know who I am now. So that's good.
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“Weeping” trees Appaloosa, for one What waves do on the shore Freshwater fish found in many Florida lakes 10 Savings account, abbr. 12 Auth. unknown, abbr. 13 Score-producing stat in baseball 15 Safety item for a tightrope walker 17 Bloom support 18 Seedless plant 19 Spanish for houses 21 Spotted 24 Human Resources, for short 26 Length of life 27 Boat mover 29 Walks a trail 32 Recommendations 33 Father 34 Camera brand 36 Canary and lemon colors 38 Striped stinker 39 Liquor sediments
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1 Untamed 2 Showy flowers 3 Vast expanse of water 4 Makes fast, as a rope attaching a boat to a dock 5 Mariner’s chart direction 6 Become ready to pick 7 Center of a hurricane 11 Type of tomato 12 ___ loss for words, 2 words 14 Salt water 16 Mariners’ concerns 17 Fish groups 20 “Quiet!” 22 Little frog 23 Self concept 25 Kind of tide 28 Pours 30 River craft 31 Pre-entree course 35 ____ Dhabi 37 Help cry
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TRUCKS & TOYS
GETTING BURIED AT THE GRAVEYARD OLD-SCHOOL MUD BOG PARK SET ON MORE THAN 200 ACRES Written by: Dave Kelly
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here is a Graveyard in the small Hamilton County city of Jasper, but it’s not bodies that they are burying up there. It’s 4-wheelers—and it’s an awesomely enjoyable time.
The Graveyard Mud Bog comprises more than 200 acres of trail riding, mud bogging and camping, all set in north-central Florida's remarkably beautiful oak hammocks. Its family-friendly atmosphere, coupled with miles of trails carved through Florida slash pines, draws folks from a three-state area to come experience some good clean muddy fun. How can mud be fun? Simple. Just grab your 4-wheel drive truck, your ATV or your side-by-side and head to The Graveyard. When you get there, set up your camp somewhere in
the shade—lots of families come out for all three days of the event weekends. Then jump on your ride and explore! Winding trails weave throughout the park, and they alternate between hard-packed earth and black sticky mud. Dappled sunshine illuminates the trails as you make your decisions. Skirt the muddy potholes that pepper the trails or tackle the challenges head-on and power through them. All day long, you will see vehicles that dared and fell short of those challenges. But that is half the fun—will you be one of the helpless who got stuck, or the hero who pulled out those less-fortunate buried souls? In addition to trying their luck on the trails, fans love to explore The Graveyard’s three sticky mud holes. Situated strategically around the park, they beckon to
PHOTO BY STEPHEN STATON
TRAIL RIDING, MUD BOGGING AND CAMPING— ALL SET IN NORTH-CENTRAL FLORIDA'S REMARKABLY BEAUTIFUL OAK HAMMOCKS.
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TOP RIGHT, MIDDLE RIGHT AND BOTTOM PHOTOS BY DAVID MARTIN; ALL OTHER PHOTOS BY DAVID CARRIER.
The Graveyard's family-friendly atmosphere draws folks from a three-state area to experience muddy fun. And The Graveyard also revs up as the sun goes down.
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TRUCKS & TOYS the adventurous with the promise of a challenge like no other—make it across without burying yourself and your ride so deep that the extraction tractor has to come and save you. During a typical event, you will find trucks and 4-wheelers of all sizes zigzagging through muck the consistency of cake batter—while music plays and mud-covered riders laugh. Want to teach your children to love this crazy pastime? The Graveyard even has a smaller mud hole for ATVs of less than 170cc that is designated just for kids. As the sun goes down, activity at The Graveyard revs up. Vendors of all kinds hawk their wares—the crowds check out everything from T-shirts and hats to BBQ and funnel cakes while waiting for the band to start.
ROUNDUP
Fans finally wear out in the early morning hours, so they head back to camp, grab a few hours of sleep, then get up and do it all over. As they head out to the trails and mud holes, they know they are sure to get buried at The Graveyard once again. FCM
PHOTO BY DAVID MARTIN
The Graveyard Mud Bog (Open select weekends during the year) 11637 SE 54th Drive, Jasper, Florida 239-823-3542, thegraveyardfl.com
Saturday night features live music on the main stage. It’s often local talent playing the outlaw country standards that are the heart and soul of the typical Graveyard Mud Bog fan. Then, as the dark settles in, it’s back on the 4-wheelers to ride the trails at night. Think it’s a challenge to get through the trails by day? Try it by the glow of headlights and LED whips at night.
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THE CULINARY CRACKER
WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN Every issue of Florida Country Magazine is filled with easy, delicious and seasonal recipes you’ll want to make again and again. DRY RUB INGREDIENTS 2 slabs baby back ribs ¼ cup brown sugar 1½ teaspoons kosher salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon smoked paprika ¼ teaspoon dried thyme ½ teaspoon allspice 1 tablespoon chili powder
CARIBBEAN MANGO HABANERO RIBS Serves 4
MANGO HABANERO SAUCE INGREDIENTS 11.3-ounce can of mango nectar 1 fresh mango, cubed 1 garlic clove, minced ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons red habanero sauce 3 tablespoons ketchup 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon smoked paprika ¼ teaspoon allspice ½ cup water PREPARATION Mix all dry rub ingredients. Sprinkle evenly over ribs and rub in well. Wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 2 hours, overnight preferred. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Cut each full rack of ribs in half, making 4 half racks. Wrap each half rack in aluminum foil. Bake for 2½ hours. Half an hour before ribs are done, add fresh cubed mango to blender and blend until smooth. Set aside. In a skillet over medium heat, add mango purée and remaining sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add a little water if sauce gets too thick. Reserve 1 cup of sauce for later use. Preheat outdoor grill for high heat. Remove ribs from oven; let stand 10 minutes. Remove ribs from foil and place on grill. Brush barbeque sauce on ribs while they are grilling. Grill ribs for 3-4 minutes on each side. Transfer ribs to a platter. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Cut and take reserve sauce and drizzle on ribs just before serving. Extra sauce can be used for people who want more sauce.
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INGREDIENTS 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved 1 avocado, diced 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves 2½ tablespoons mayonnaise 2 teaspoons lime juice 1 garlic clove, minced ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper Smoked paprika, optional to garnish eggs Salt, to taste
AVOCADO DEVILED EGGS Yields 12 halves
PREPARATION Scoop egg yolks into a bowl. Add avocado, cilantro, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, cayenne pepper and salt. Mix egg mixture with blender until evenly combined and smooth. Spoon or pipe filling into each egg half and sprinkle with smoked paprika.
INGREDIENTS 3 pounds fresh crappie fillets 10-ounce bag of seasoned crispy Louisiana Fish Fry
FRIED CRAPPIE Serves 4-6
PREPARATION Preheat deep fryer to 375 degrees F. Pour bag of fish fry into 1-gallon zipper storage bag. Wash fish fillets thoroughly in cold water. While fillets are wet (not soaking) coat individually in fish fry. Place fish fillets in oil and cook until golden brown, 3-4 minutes. Remove and place on paper towel to absorb access oil. Repeat steps with remaining fish fillets.
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THE CULINARY CRACKER PAN-SEARED TILAPIA WITH LEMON CAPER CREAM SAUCE Serves 4
ENTS TILAPIA INGREDI 4 tilapia fillets Old Bay Seasoning er Salt and black pepp EAM SAUCE LEMON CAPER CR INGREDIENTS h 1 cup vegetable brot m ea cr y av ¼ cup he 2 shallots, minced drained 1 tablespoon capers, 2 tablespoons butter irgin olive oil 2 tablespoons extra-v pose flour 1 tablespoon all-pur juice 1 tablespoon lemon 1 large lemon, zest press ezed through garlic 1 clove of garlic, sque rsley, minced 1 tablespoon fresh pa ¼ teaspoon salt pper ¼ teaspoon black pe
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PREPARATION fish with Old Bay Season both sides of pepper. Preheat a Seasoning, salt and . et over medium heat large non-stick skill t ho in s 2 fish fillet Add olive oil. Place 4 minutes. Flip and r fo h skillet. Cook fis . Remove and repeat cook 3 more minutes Keep fish warm by with remaining fish. n inum foil. In same pa covering with alum to gin be , at edium he (fish removed) on m r, minced shallots tte bu d make sauce. Ad utes, until soft. Add and garlic for 3 min st, stir. Sprinkle flour capers and lemon ze til rlic mixture. Stir un over shallots and ga ur po ly ed. Slow flour is evenly absorb d lemon juice, Ad r. sti h, vegetable brot is mixed well, add stir. After everything r. and heavy cream, sti salt, pepper, parsley e uc sa n oo and sp Return fish to skillet g. in rv se re over top befo
INGREDIENTS 24 button mushrooms, cleaned and stemmed 8 ounces spinach, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced ½ cup crumbled feta cheese 2 cloves garlic, minced 1½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Salt and black pepper PREPARATION Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Heat oil in skillet on medium heat. Add spinach and sauté l for 1 minute. Add garlic. Stir constantly unti spinach is wilted, about 1 minute. Remove from heat. On a baking sheet, arrange mushrooms with cavity side up, single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. In small bowl, use a fork to combine spinach/ m garlic mixture, feta and parsley. Each mushroo gets about a teaspoon of filling. Bake for 25 minutes or until slightly golden brown on top.
FETA AND SPINACH STUFFED MUSHROOMS Yields 24
INGREDIENTS cken breasts 6 thin boneless and skinless chi 2 cups spinach, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced e oil 3 tablespoons extra-virgin oliv 1 cup heavy cream atoes, roughly ¼ cup oil-packed sun-dried tom chopped ½ cup Parmesan cheese Salt and black pepper
SUN-DRIED TOMATO PARMESAN SPINACH CHICKEN Serves 6
PREPARATION thin chicken breasts. Salt and pepper both sides of in skillet over oil Drizzle 2 tablespoons olive n and pan sear cke medium-high heat. Add chi side for 4 more er oth for 4-5 minutes. Repeat on t and set aside. hea m minutes. Remove chicken fro lespoon olive tab 1 add Reduce heat on skillet and until it or s ond sec oil. Add garlic, sauté for 30 es, spinach, ato tom ied starts to brown. Add sun-dr thoroughly. x Mi . ese che heavy cream and Parmesan ce and simmer for Return chicken to pan with sau cken. chi r 1 minute, spooning sauce ove
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TELLING TALES
G
Written by: Norm Zeigler
ator stories are a dime a dozen in the Sunshine State, and I’m not even talking about ones coming out of The Swamp in Gainesville! Actually, the first live gator I encountered wasn’t a gator at all. It arrived on Cape Cod via U.S. Mail in a box, from my mom in Florida. The postmaster looked at me sideways while handing over the vented package. At home, I ran to our backyard turtle pen and ripped open the box to what I knew was the coolest pet in town. During the next few weeks, I showed it off to nearly everyone I knew and many I did not. A few months later, I headed for the turtle pen after school. At first I couldn’t find the gator but finally spotted a big rock in one corner—with a tail and a snout sticking out from underneath. The coolest pet in town had become a flat hunk of meat that was starting to smell, the killing likely courtesy of some neighborhood kid or kids. A month afterward, I learned from a reference book that my “gator” had been a caiman, a related species native to South America and raised on farms in the Sunshine State. In college in Massachusetts, a freshman pal roomed with a senior who kept a 3-foot gator for a pet. My friend was always careful getting out of bed. Later, when my family and I moved to southwestern Florida, I researched more about gators, including that they’ve been on earth for 85 million years. A bike/ pedestrian path in front of our house led past two dugout lakes full of them. One gator in particular—a 13-footer that
Big Al seemed placid and unengaged with humans. One day (strangely, Sept. 11, 2001), Big Al came in stealth to a dog-walking neighbor to grab the man by the calf, flip into a death roll and tear off his leg at the knee. The president banned all flights because of the attacks and the neighbor died before the ambulance arrived at the hospital. Big Al, swimming with the neighbor’s leg in his mouth, succumbed to a blast from a Fish and Wildlife officer’s 12-gauge. All outdoorsmen in Florida encounter gators. Fishing for snook one evening, I observed a large gator approaching from my left. It stopped in front of me 40 feet out, only eyes and nostrils showing. We watched each other for several minutes, then a snook hit my fly. The race was on, the gator turning on the speed as I horsed the fish away from it. I snatched the fish at the waterline when the gator was 15 feet from me. Unhooking the snook as I ran to my car, I heaved a long-distance release. The gator, running high-legged, with mouth open as it pursued me, lowered its belly to the pavement and crawled back to the water. For numbers of gators, it’s hard to top the confluence of the Turner River Canal and the Tamiami Canal, 25 miles east of Naples. On sunny winter days, hundreds of the prehistoric reptiles lie along the banks over, under and beside each other—like stepping stones. Don’t be fooled by their apparent lethargy. Few people have experienced this apex predator’s sometime sociability. On mild days, I keep my Sanibel Island fly fishing shop door open, eschewing the AC. One evening at shutdown, I caught movement out of the corner of my eye and soon saw a 5-foot gator crawling out from under my couch. Wielding a push broom and trash can, the last customer and I soon persuaded the interloper to leave by the front door. I ran ahead of it to the middle of the road and stopped traffic so it could cross, headed for the Sanibel River. FCM
Gator in the
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shop
BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF NORM ZEIGLER
GATORS I HAVE KNOWN
we often spotted across the lake sunning itself—seemed ever present. We named it Big Al and showed it off to visitors.
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