Florida Country Magazine - December 2020 / January 2021 by Florida Country Magazine

FEATURES

FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE / ISSUE VOL. 4 • NO. 6

ON THE COVER: Amanda Coleman represents true Florida Country. She is ranked ninth in the world for breakaway roping at the young age of 19, and joins her idols in paving the way for other women to make a career in roping. Read this rodeo athlete’s story on page 44. Photo by Paul Gray.

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Homosassa— River of Fish

Sights Include Iconic Monkeys, Convalescing Manatees and One Very Old Hippo

Toes in the Sand Jensen's Captiva Island Beach & Marina Resorts Turning the Tide 2

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DEPARTMENTS FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE / ISSUE VOL. 4 • NO. 6

FCM CIRCLE

THE HOMESTEAD

A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER

RARE WESTERN PARADISE IN BROOKSVILLE

page 8

page 52

VET VIEW

PICTURE PERFECT

PROTECT YOUR PETS AND YOURSELF FROM LEPTOSPIROSIS

page 56

page 10

FLORIDA 4-H

FIRST PROJECT CALF

page 12

OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM FLORIDA

page 60

HORSIN' AROUND THE ALTOONA TRAIL RIDERS OF LAKE COUNTY

WILD FLORIDA

FLORIDA HARVEST

page 62

WINTERTIME WADE FISHING FOR SEATROUT

page 14

TUPELO HONEY IS TRULY TERRIFIC

page 18

SIGN OF SUCCESS IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S OKALOOSA COUNTY

page 68

page 26

CROSSWORD

page 73

FLORIDA EXCURSIONS

page 40

page 66

MEET LUKE COMBS

MEET 2020 MISS UNITED STATES AGRICULTURE

HEAD FOR THE DUNES AT TOPSAIL HILL STATE PARK

MY BEST FRIEND

STARS & GUITARS

page 22

TECH TALK LIVING THE LIFTED LIFESTYLE

page 74

RODEO PROFILE

FLORIDA RODEO ATHLETE BECOMES PART OF HISTORY

THE CULINARY CRACKER

page 44

RISING STARS OF RODEO

WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN

page 48

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FLORIDA MEMORIES

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page 76

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Owner/Publisher Scarlett Redenius Owner/C.E.O. Brad Redenius President Thomas Fifield Vice President Sheila Fifield Editorial Director Katherine Waters Design Director Brian Stromlund Travel Editor Dave Kelly Contributing Writers Brenda Eubanks Burnette, Christopher Decubellis, Ava Grace, Kathy Ann Gregg, Kym Rouse Holzwart, Dave Kelly, Myles Mellor, Linda Thompson, Paul Thurman, Ph.D. Featured Photographers Nick Adams, Bonnie Williams Anderson, Madison Ayers, Michael Berio, Jennifer Casares, Cornelius, Shane Cribbs, Nikki Feldman, Paul Gray, Kathy Ann Gregg, Dave Kelly, April Lopez, Zack Massey, Karen Pando, James Phyfer, Mike Rastelli, Scarlett Redenius, Thomas Rex, Sandy Shoop, Virginia Marshall Stokes, Nathan Ward, Brandi Watford, Jim Wright 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 2021, 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. 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

he year 2020 has been a whirlwind and the only thing left is for 3 feet of snow to be dumped on us!

Even that wouldn’t affect us: Instead of slinging sandbags, we’d just be shoveling snow while our children and grandchildren would be building snowmen, having snowball fights and making beautiful snow angels. I bet our hot chocolate would even taste different in a wintery wonderland.

A mask does not protect us 100 percent, but it does do something. I believe it somewhat protects me from you and you from me, but we cannot live in fear and not support our economy.

All joking aside, we can handle anything thrown at us Floridians. That’s because one lesson we’ve all learned this year is that we are strong—COUNTRY STRONG!

There is too much to see in our great state, and we’ll keep bringing those “Old Florida” towns to you. So throw on that mask and go visit the places we write about; go fishing; keep enjoying life.

I don’t know about you, but elbow bumping, cocktail hour with friends by Zoom and birthday caravans are not normal. At first, it was kind of cool that we found workarounds to get through this, even though I complained about too many events.

A great place to start is Homosassa Springs. Let the Florida Cracker Riverside Resort take care of you while you participate in the outdoor activities it has to offer. Go scalloping, visit Monkey Island and experience Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park (page 30).

Well, damn it, now bring on the events! I’m starting with Smoke Under the Oaks Rib Fest, Jan. 9, 2021, in Labelle, home of the Swamp Cabbage Festival in Hendry County. Rodeos are back, and you don't want to miss the Cracker Day Rodeo, from Jan. 15 to 17, 2021, at the Lee County Posse Arena in North Fort Myers. It’s time to see what they’ve got. One thing for sure, these rodeo contestants have had plenty of time to practice and only the best will come out on top. Maybe rodeo events aren’t for you. If so, then you can ride a different type of animal at the Mud Wheelers Gone Wild for ATVs and Side x Side Only event at Redneck Mud Park in Charlotte County. It’s also being held Jan. 15 to 17, 2021. And for those who want to get muddy again from head to toe, be sure to take your trucks, ATVs and Side x Sides to the city of Jasper in north Florida’s Hamilton County. Check out The Graveyard Mud Bog and its Winter Wheelin’ event on Jan. 29 to 31, 2021. We cannot live in fear, but we can take every precaution to keep ourselves and others safe until we weather this storm. It is so important to keep our economy going and we can do this while staying safe and still social distancing.

All of Florida Country Magazine’s advertisers have taken big steps to keep you safe. Whether you plan to complete a project, dine out, travel, buy a new house or property, get your hair done—the businesses and establishments have set up safety protocols.

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Take time to relax at Jensen’s Twin Palm Cottages & Marina Resort on Captiva Island. A "True Florida" backdrop, soak it all in right from the dock—a manatee haven, wildlife heaven and fishing enthusiasts' dream spot. But don't stop there! Head over to Jensen's "On the Gulf" Resort and soak in its views and breathtaking sunsets. The Jensens welcome you to experience "True Captiva." Nothing but pure outdoor enjoyment. And guess what? You, too, can capture the family tradition of “Waiting on Big Shrimp.” These historic resorts in “paradise” are ready to pass the torch to someone new to continue the legacy—they're for sale (page 34). We could not live in a better state to spend time outdoors. Florida is so full of adventure and fascinating people and places. Do whatever makes you feel safe but don’t live in fear! To a better today, a better tomorrow and a better year, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support of Florida Country Magazine. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! SCARLETT REDENIUS, Publisher

PHOTO BY NICK ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

CHEERS TO NOT LIVING IN FEAR AND LOOKING FOR BETTER!

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VET VIEW

PROTECT YOUR PETS AND YOURSELF FROM LEPTOSPIROSIS ANNUAL VACCINATION CAN HELP PREVENT THE BACTERIAL DISEASE

Written by: Ava Grace

nlike fleas—which your pets can pass to you—leptospirosis, aka lepto, offers more concern than bites and itching. Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can cause fever, increased thirst, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy and jaundice (making the lining of the mouth and the whites of the eyes turn yellow). It can even lead to death. “A big concern with catching leptospirosis is that it can cause renal (kidney) failure,” says Dr. Alexis Lanser, a veterinarian at Van Roekel & Associates in North Fort Myers. It is a zoonotic disease—meaning it can be spread from animals to humans, so kidney failure is a concern for all parties. While dogs to humans is the most common transmission, the disease can spread to humans from cats (rare), cattle, pigs, horses, rodents and wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, opossum, rats and deer. Leptospirosis transmission occurs through skin cuts, mucus membranes and conjunctiva (eyes and eyelids).

Southwest Florida, this disease is concerning. “However, there is a yearly vaccination that can help prevent leptospirosis,” explains Lanser. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is estimated that in the U.S., approximately 100 to 150 cases of leptospirosis are reported annually. Puerto Rico reports the majority of leptospirosis cases, followed by Hawaii. More than 1 million cases occur worldwide annually, leading to almost 60,000 deaths. The best thing you can do is vaccinate your pet. If a dog has never had a vaccination, it must be boostered once—three to four weeks after the initial dose. So how is leptospirosis diagnosed? “A thorough workup is required,” Lanser says. Because the disease has common symptoms—such as lethargy, vomiting, dehydration and fever—which can be found in other illnesses, a full diagnostic workup is required.

ALTHOUGH THE DISEASE CAN OCCUR ANYWHERE, LEPTOSPIROSIS THRIVES IN WARM, WET CLIMATES WITH HIGH AVERAGE RAINFALL. IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, THIS DISEASE IS CONCERNING. The disease generally spreads through an infected animal’s urine. Infections can also occur by contact with water (including flood water), soil or food that has been contaminated with the infected animal’s urine. Outbreaks tend to occur after heavy rainfall. The bacteria can survive for weeks and even months in urine-contaminated water and soil. The incubation period can be up to 30 days and most infections are asymptomatic. Although the disease can occur anywhere, leptospirosis thrives in warm, wet climates with high average rainfall. In

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“We start with a history of the pet and a series of questions,” adds Lanser. The questions may include: Is the dog vaccinated? Does it go outside? Is there wildlife on your property or in areas where you take your dog? Although not definitive, bloodwork can also help pinpoint clues and is often a diagnostic starting point. X-rays are typically performed to rule out other concerns that have similar symptoms. There are two definitive tests for leptospirosis: “The DNA-PCR test detects the DNA of Leptospira. This test is faster and less expensive

than the other, the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), and is the preferred one,” Lanser says.

RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. ALEXIS LANSER

If your pet shows signs of leptospirosis, seek veterinary help as soon as possible. Also, contact your personal physician if your pet shows signs of leptospirosis or has been diagnosed with it. Early treatment is also critical for the pet owner. FCM

Dr. Alexis Lanser, veterinarian at Van Roekel & Associates

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FLORIDA 4-H

FIRST PROJECT CALF FLAGSHIP MOMENT FOR MANY 4-H MEMBERS

Written by: Christopher Decubellis

flagship moment for many 4-H members is when they pick out their first steer, breeding heifer or even a dairy heifer. And lots of young people save up their money for months—maybe even years— in order to purchase that first project calf.

To have a successful project, the new bovine owner has to do several things correctly. Included are having a proper nutrition program, as well as properly controlling internal and external parasites. However, acclimating the animalto-human interaction and halter breaking the animal are imperative for youth to be able to safely interact with and exhibit their animals. This article offers tips to help young people initially gentle down and halter break their calves. Keep in mind that the younger the calf is at the time of halter breaking, the easier the process. It is important to have a solid and secure pen or paddock in which to work. It is best

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if the youth (with parental oversight and supervision) is the one who feeds and cares for the animal daily. This will allow the animal to become comfortable with the youth’s presence. A good training halter and lead is necessary to control the animal. Always make sure the halter is properly positioned high on the bridge of the animal’s nose so it won’t cut off air flow if the animal balks. Check the fit of the halter daily—these animals grow fast! Tying cattle to a post, tree or something solid will go a long way in teaching the animal to lead, because it learns to respect the rope. But a person should never get between an animal and a fence until the animal has learned to be calm and no longer afraid of its handler. Never tie an animal to something that is rickety, loose or easy to break. Tie animals high—about 3 feet to 4 feet off

the ground—with about 12 inches to 18 inches of slack between the halter and whatever it is tied to. Always tie the animal with a slip knot such as a “manger knot.” Once the animal is used to being tied and stands quietly while tied, start handling and petting the animal to get it used to being touched. Begin handling on the tail head and along the back. Don’t begin by rubbing the head because this can encourage the animal to head butt. Some cattle love to kick, so always proceed with care when handling. When an animal is comfortable being handled, and respects being tied, it’s time to begin leading. Young people should be supervised at all times around large animals, and especially during leading. Leading an animal to and from water is often a good way to begin training. Sometimes it is helpful to find a treat your animal really likes and reward it with the treat during training. After an animal is used to being handled, one can often calm it down by rubbing or brushing it. Eventually

you can begin introducing a show stick with beef animals to help train the animal how to properly “set up.” The show stick can also be used to rub the animal to provide a soothing, calming effect. Practice with the show stick early and often at home. Always keep the tip pointed down while leading. The show stick is a tool that should be used to calm your animal and help it set up its feet and legs and straighten its back. It is not a tool that should be used to hit your animal. Leading an animal every day will increase its muscle definition and make it behave better at fairs and shows. Having a calm project animal will also help ensure a safe experience for the 4-H youth. If you know a young person ages 8 to 18 who would like to have a beef or dairy 4-H project, have them contact their local UF/IFAS Extension office. Or they can email me at cdecube@ufl.edu and I will help them get information about their local office. FCM

LEADING AN ANIMAL EVERY DAY WILL INCREASE ITS MUSCLE DEFINITION AND MAKE IT BEHAVE BETTER AT FAIRS AND SHOWS. HAVING A CALM PROJECT ANIMAL WILL ALSO HELP ENSURE A SAFE EXPERIENCE FOR THE 4-H YOUTH.

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HORSIN' AROUND

THE ALTOONA TRAIL RIDERS OF LAKE COUNTY RIDING AND CAMPING ON SOME OF STATE’S MOST BEAUTIFUL RECREATION LANDS

he Altoona Trail Riders club is based out of the unincorporated community of Altoona, Florida, located in picturesque northeastern Lake County—near Lake Dorr and Ocala National Forest. The current version of the riding club was founded in 1995 to preserve equestrian trails, participate in community service, and promote family fun. Glenda Dawkins founded the club because the area was becoming an epicenter of recreational trail riding; many trail riders had relocated from South Florida to the Altoona area after the devastation caused by Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Originally, the club was made up of riders who took part in competitive trail rides throughout the winter. Members were involved in the Florida 100-mile CTR, which began in 1951. That ride no longer has as many participants as during its heyday and has moved to different locations over the years. It is still conducted every winter by the Florida Horsemen’s Association and, for the past few years, has been at Ocala-based Florida Horse Park.

The Altoona Trail Riders also paved the way for increasing the popularity of another equestrian event—obstacle challenges. For years, until 2014, the group held an annual obstacle challenge on the beautiful grounds of Rocking Horse Stables in Altoona. Obstacle challenges and practices are now popular events and are held in many locations throughout the state. The club currently has about 120 members. It holds a monthly meeting, with a guest speaker, at Altoona Elementary School on the first Thursday of every month. Monthly day rides and campouts with horses are held at many different locations throughout north-central Florida, from September through May. Camping and riding locations include the following: Ocala National Forest, the Cross-Florida Greenway, the Citrus Tract and Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest, Seminole State Forest, Fechtel Tract at Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park, and Indian Lake State Forest. Also included are Lake Norris Conservation Area, Sawgrass Island Preserve, Lake Louisa State Park, Silver Springs Forest

THE CURRENT VERSION OF THE RIDING CLUB WAS FOUNDED IN 1995 TO PRESERVE EQUESTRIAN TRAILS, PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY SERVICE, AND PROMOTE FAMILY FUN.

At left, Altoona Trail Riders participating in the annual Christmas parade in nearby Umatilla, Florida. Right, club members are a fun group of people who host monthly day rides and campouts.

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PHOTOS THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY KAREN PANDO

Written by: Kym Rouse Holzwart

Top left, young riders having fun on a ride hosted by the club. Middle right, holding a "horsey" yard sale to raise scholarship funds. Other photos from rides on some of Florida's most beautiful recreation lands.

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HORSIN' AROUND

Swimming with your horse in a lake is a treat after trail riding in Ocala National Forest.

Conservation Area, Sunnyhill Restoration Area, Seminole Winds Ranch, and McCulley Farms. Every June, the group holds a year-end banquet in which both fun and serious awards are given out, including “Trail Horse of the Year” and “Trail Rider of the Year.” The Altoona Trail Riders club also participates in holiday parades. As part of its community service, the Altoona Trail Riders club has hosted several Children’s Miracle Network charity trail rides, as well as charity trail rides for the Hospice of Lake County. The Altoona Trail Riders regularly assist in maintaining the area’s equestrian trails. Many members also belong to the Back Country Horsemen of Southeast Ocala Forest and participate in workdays maintaining the horse trails in Ocala National Forest. Each year, the club gives a $500 scholarship to a high school senior who is furthering his or her education in the equine industry, land and resource management, agriculture, or animal husbandry. Money to fund the scholarship is raised by holding an annual “horsey” yard sale every March.

ROUNDUP The Altoona Trail Riders altoonatrailridersinc.com altoonariders@gmail.com

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PHOTO BY KAREN PANDO

If you are interested in trail riding and camping with lots of friendly, fun people on some of Florida’s most beautiful recreation lands, learning more about horses, and giving back to the community, contact the Altoona Trail Riders. Everyone is welcome! FCM

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FLORIDA HARVEST

TUPELO HONEY IS TRULY TERRIFIC MEMORABLY TASTY—AND LOADED WITH BENEFICIAL ENZYMES, POLLEN, VITAMINS, MINERALS

Written by: Ava Grace

upelo honey offers a unique taste sensation. “It starts with a bright, fruity-floral burst that dissolves easily on the tongue, and then has a buttery, warm finish,” explains Brian Bertonneau, owner of Smiley Honey in Wewahitchka, Florida, in the Panhandle’s Gulf County. It is so remarkable that many people call it the “Cadillac of Honey” and the “Best Honey on the Planet.” Tupelo honey also holds the title of “State Honey of Florida”—no doubt awarded in large part because of the light amber-colored honey’s memorable taste. So how does this exceptional honey come about? Bees gather the nectar from the small white blossoms of the white gum tupelo tree, or nyssa ogeche, which appear from late April to early May. These trees grow mostly in southeastern Georgia and northwestern Florida. Some of the highest concentrations of white gum tupelo trees are found along the Apalachicola and Chipola river systems in Gulf

County, Liberty County and Calhoun County, all of which are located in Florida’s Panhandle. The trees grow best near the water—in wetlands or along riverbanks. Smiley Honey has been handling tupelo honey in one capacity or another since 1989. That is when beekeeper Donald Smiley started up the operation in his garage. At the height of it all, he had more than 1,000 beehives. In 2012, Smiley retired and sold the honey-bottling portion of the business to Bertonneau, who has since added more honey varieties. Haven’t yet tasted tupelo honey? You’re in for a delicious surprise! Bertonneau suggests first trying it from off a spoon. “After that, you can use it with hundreds of different foods. Drizzle some tupelo honey on goat cheese spread on a baked crostini. Use it as the star ingredient in homemade ice cream. Stir some into your morning oatmeal. Drizzle some on hot buttered pancakes. Add it to your favorite barbecue glaze. And on and on,” says Bertonneau. He enjoys tupelo honey on warm, crusty bread and hot cornbread muffins, and as the main ingredient in ice cream made with the recipe that can be found on his Smiley Honey website: smileyhoney.com/blogs/recipes/ super-easy-honey-ice-cream. Taste aside, what’s also remarkable about tupelo honey is its attractive tint. Hold the bottle up to the light and you’ll notice its light-greenish tint. It comes from

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ALL PHOTOS EXCEPT BOTTOM LEFT COURTESY OF SMILEY HONEY

At top, blossoms of the white gum tupelo tree provide nectar for tupelo honey. Bees gather the nectar and make honeycombs. At left is a stand of white gum tupelo trees; at right, a bee smoker is used to calm the bees before the hives are inspected.

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FLORIDA HARVEST the tupelo pollen found in raw honey. And raw honey is loaded with beneficial enzymes, pollen, vitamins and minerals—so you can enjoy both the amazing flavor and all of the health benefits of this extraordinary honey. FCM

ROUNDUP Smiley Honey 163 Bozeman Circle Wewahitchka, Florida 850-639-5672, smileyhoney.com

TRY TUPELO IN YOUR ENTRÉE Patrons of Shipwreck Raw Bar, located in St. Joe Beach in Florida’s Gulf County, know exactly how well tupelo honey can add delicious flavor to entrées. One of the establishment’s most popular dinner items is its “Bee Sting Shrimp,” a dish that’s made of shrimp sautéed in a spicy tupelo honey sauce. “If you’ve ever been stung by a bee, there’s a bit of a burn at first—that actually feels pretty good after that. That’s the way ‘Bee Sting Shrimp’ is. When you first bite down, you notice the spicy burn, but then the mellow sweetness of the tupelo honey takes over,” says Shipwreck Raw Bar owner Tony Whitfield.

ROUNDUP Shipwreck Raw Bar 7008 W. Highway 98 St. Joe Beach, Florida 850-647-5050, shipwreckrawbar.com

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SHIPWRECK RAW BAR

The dish was added to the menu in order to incorporate locally produced tupelo honey into Shipwreck Raw Bar’s offerings. And another of its menu options is “Sweet Potato With Cinnamon Tupelo Butter.” Yum!

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FLORIDA HARVEST

SIGN OF SUCCESS IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S OKALOOSA COUNTY

Written by: Ava Grace

n 1973, James Marshall began growing peanuts, soybeans and corn in Florida’s Santa Rosa County. Things have certainly changed since those early years—Marshall has added family members to his staff, including his wife, Helen, and son, Nick. Marshall Farms is in a new location and the crops are peanuts and cotton. Plus, Marshall now utilizes Best Management Practices, or BMPs. These have been so effective that, in 2018, Marshall Farms was presented a CARES award by the Florida Farm Bureau Federation. The CARES program, which stands for County Alliance for Responsible Environmental Stewardship, recognizes Florida farmers and ranchers who protect Florida's natural resources by implementing BMPs. In the form of a “This Farm CARES” sign, the award is presented to Floridians who are agricultural producers and are fully committed to protecting Florida’s environment. Since 2001, more than 800

James Marshall and his son, Nick, inspect cotton plants on their 2,500-acre farm in Okaloosa County. Marshall Farms also grows peanuts.

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farmers and ranchers have received the award. “It was an honor to present [Marshall Farms] their Farm Bureau CARES award in 2018 for their efforts to be good environmental stewards. It was then that I learned about their Best Management Practices program,” explains Cacee Hilliard, CARES coordinator. These days, James and Nick, along with other family members, work on the 2,500-acre farm that is now located in Okaloosa County. James Marshall’s focus is on environmentally friendly practices. He works to reduce water, nutrient and chemical use, to improve water quality and to protect the wildlife habitats that surround his farm— using field borders and providing natural wind breaks. “The Marshalls truly care about protecting our environment. That is so evident in their daily farming practices and decisions,” Hilliard adds.

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF FLORIDA FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

CARES AWARD GIVEN TO MARSHALL FARMS FOR CONSERVATION EFFORTS

Above from left are John Baggett, with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Agricultural Water Policy, and James and Nick Marshall. Below is a view of the vast cotton fields at Marshall Farms. At left, three generations of the Marshall family show their CARES award.

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FLORIDA HARVEST

In addition to their dedication to environmentally friendly farming practices, the Marshalls invest time and effort serving on several agricultural boards.

In 2009, James and Nick were selected to participate in cotton variety evaluations. They grew new varieties and reported the results to help advance the cotton industry. “The Marshall family continues to innovate the American cotton and peanut industry. By investing their efforts in new seed varieties and farming practices, they lead the way for sustainable agriculture in Florida,” notes Hilliard. In addition to their dedication to environmentally friendly farming practices, the Marshalls invest their time and efforts in other ways. James has served as the director of Farm Credit and on the Farm Service Agency board and Florida Peanut Producers board. Nick currently serves on the Okaloosa County Farm Bureau board of directors, Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s Peanut & Cotton Advisory Committee, and is a Florida delegate on the National Cotton Council. FCM

ROUNDUP This Farm CARES thisfarmcares.org

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TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORIDA FARM BUREAU FEDERATION; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARSHALL FARMS

The Marshalls have also installed T low-flow rate nozzles on their center-pivot irrigation systems to reduce water use, and have incorporated Global Positioning System and variable-rate technologies to precisely apply nutrients. In addition, they have used John Deere’s ExactApply nozzle control system, which uses 10% less pesticides and reduces sprayer drift to neighboring properties.

35 ACRE HORSE RANCH & HOME WITH 3 BARNS & 4 PONDS

SOLD 4 BEDS • 4 BATHS • 2,700 SQ.FT. • 35 ACRES 35 Acre Equestrian Ranch in the heart of Buckingham. Home includes beautiful pool heated jacuzzi, cedar sauna, granite kitchen countertops, aluminum galvalume metal roof, wood floors etc. It also has a new mother-in-law guest quarters. Property has a detached 6 metal roof barn. Equestrian facility has a lighted arena for training and competitions. Two horse barns with stalls for 10 horses. Two tack rooms and a feed house. Long equipment list included is R.0. water system, 25 KW generator, solar heated Insta Hot and a nice Ford tractor. 5 separate cross fenced pastures for cattle and horses. If you and your family want a beautiful Ag property for an excellent price, schedule a showing. You will not be disappointed with the value. REDUCED TO $850,000

Re/Max Hall Of Fame Sales Award • Platinum Sales Award Re/Max Leaders & Legends Publication • Chairman Sales Award

IF YOU WANT IT SOLD • 239-872-7653 Darius Cochran OWNER AGENT

DariusLCochran@gmail.com DariusCochran@aol.com

www.DariusCochran.com

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FLORIDA HARVEST

MEET 2020 MISS UNITED STATES AGRICULTURE SHELBY LYNN KIRTON OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA, WINS THE TITLE n the midst of this crazy year, life has gone on as normal as we could make it. And that includes the pageants that celebrate the many and varied things we are surrounded by on a daily basis. Because the Sunshine State is still largely an agricultural state, it comes as no surprise that this year's Miss United States Agriculture title is held by a young woman from Okeechobee, Florida—Shelby Lynn Kirton. Her journey to the top started a year ago: In mid-December of 2019, Kirton was chosen as Central Florida Miss United States Agriculture—through the submission of photos. Her fondest memory of holding that title was when she assisted the Okeechobee Women's Pregnancy Center by donating her prom dresses to its local thrift store. For the national title, a live pageant was held June 19 to 20 in Orlando, in which Kirton rose above 11 other qualified young women in the categories of interview, state wear, onstage introductions, beauty, and impromptu questioning. When asked what her favorite portion of that pageant was,

THE DAUGHTER OF Dudley and Cheryl Kirton, the new titleholder is a fifthgeneration cattle rancher. At the age of 5, she began her agricultural career by showing livestock all over the state with her older brother, Bailey.

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she responds, “The ‘State Fun Fashion,’ because that allowed me to showcase Florida's state flower, the orange blossom.” The daughter of Dudley and Cheryl Kirton, the new titleholder is a fifth-generation cattle rancher. At the age of 5, she began her agricultural career by showing livestock all over the state with her older brother, Bailey. The duo started out showing shorthorns and slowly transitioned into Brahman cattle, and the next 13 years took them to shows all over the country. Although Bailey currently serves his country as a member of the U.S. Navy, the family, including the two children, raise and sell registered Brahman cattle from their Okeechobee ranch. Kirton is a 2018 graduate of Okeechobee High School and Indian River State College, under their dual enrollment program. She received a bachelor’s degree in animal science, with an equine specialization, in 2020 from the University of Florida. Kirton is currently attending Oklahoma State University and pursuing a master’s degree in agriculture communications.

PHOTO BY BRANDI WATFORD PHOTOGRAPHY

Written by: Kathy Ann Gregg

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY BRANDI WATFORD PHOTOGRAPHY; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHELBY LYNN KIRTON

Opposite page, Shelby Lynn Kirton nuzzles Corona Special, her "special" boy. Clockwise from above left, donning her 2020 Miss United States Agriculture crown and sash; competing in 2018's American Patriot Rodeo in Fort Worth, Texas; and showing her Brahman heifer at 2017's Florida State Fair.

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FLORIDA HARVEST Prior to earning her current title, Kirton was the 20152016 Florida High School Rodeo Association Queen, and competed for the national title in Rock Springs, Wyoming, at the National High School Rodeo Finals. During her years in the state organization, she competed in the events of goat-tying, barrel racing, pole bending and breakaway roping. She is a member of the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association, competing in barrel races at the pro-rodeo level, as well as local events. Kirton credits Matt Pearce of Okeechobee as her agriculture role model. Pearce was the 2019-2020 Florida Cattlemen’s Association president. As Kirton notes, “His dedication to the agriculture industry inspires me in my role as the national Miss United States Agriculture.” The new titleholder plans on using her position to be a positive promoter of agriculture nationwide—in any way that she can. She plans on attending national livestock shows, as well as events that are held within the industry. The show Kirton looks forward most to attending is the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in March, which is known as the world’s largest livestock show and richest regular-season Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event.

PHOTO BY BRANDI WATFORD PHOTOGRAPHY

And it’s pretty easy to guess what the favorite food is of this through-and-through Floridian: steak! FCM

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Florida

Roadtrip Series

Homosassa—

RIVER OF FISH

Homosasa Springs Sate aP rk near Crysal River, Florida is one of the best places in the sate to view manatees.

Sights Include Iconic Monkeys, Convalescing Manatees and One Very Old Hippo

Written by: Dave Kelly

ust north of the hustle and bustle of Tampa lies a little village that is the perfect opposite of big-city madness—Homosassa, Florida, in Citrus County. During the 1800s, it was the home of flourishing sugarcane plantations and mills, and many of the world’s pencils were produced from the area’s vast cedar groves in the early 20th century. Now, it is home to fishing charter captains, quaint resorts, “Old Florida” history and … monkeys. But more on that later. At the center of all the action lies the Florida Cracker Riverside Resort. Tucked up to the main river just a few miles from Homosassa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, the resort offers the best of the region’s amenities, all the while staying true to its “Old Florida” roots. The attached full-service marina has everything you need for outdoor activities—from boat, kayak and paddleboard rentals to scalloping equipment and manatee tours.

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The resort itself has 54 rooms, many within steps of the marina dock. More than 80 boat slips, two boat ramps and room to park a trailer provide the outdoor fanatic with everything he or she could need to experience this river town’s best. We checked into our suite and were thrilled to find that it was perfectly laid out for our week’s trip. Bedroom and bathroom were separate from the huge sitting area, and a complete kitchen with full-size fridge ensured that we could stock up early and have everything we needed for the week at our fingertips. The breathtaking river view from our front porch topped it all off. The Florida Cracker Riverside Resort bills itself as the “Home of World-Famous Monkey Island”—and we soon found out why. As you sit enjoying your classic stone-baked pizza and your beer at the Florida Cracker Monkey Bar, you are only a stone’s throw from this iconic attraction.

TOP PHOTOS COURTESY OF FCRR; BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO BY NATHAN WARD; BOTTOM MIDDLE PHOTO BY DAVE KELLY

View of Florida Cracker Riverside Resort and, at righ, one of its rooms. Botm from le, Southern Slam Outters eg ts ready orf a day of scalloping; Yulee Suag r Mil Ruins Historic Sate aP rk; entrance to Ellie Schiler Homosasa Springs eWildf Sate aP rk.

Originally created by developer G.A. “Furgy” Furgason in the 1960s, the island was designed to keep boats from running aground in the bend of the river. Soon after, monkeys from Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park upriver were relocated because of their ornery behavior. Monkeys do not like to swim, so the river keeps them separated from the mainland, and monkeys have been on the island for more than 50 years. Currently, five spider monkeys inhabit the island, three of which are from the original relocation. The monkeys are under the care of the resort and are fed twice a day with a special healthy diet. Homosassa means “river of fish” in the native Seminole tongue, and there is no shortage of fish in

this town. We hooked up with Capt. Don Chancey of Flats Chance Charters to try our luck with the seatrout and redfish in the area. On our leisurely trip out to the Gulf, we passed houses that are built on the isolated islands of Homosassa Bay. The captain explained that the project of getting electricity to these homes was simple compared to the challenge of keeping fresh water available for their inhabitants. Although some of the houses were long ago abandoned, there are dozens of beautiful, unique homes that are still occupied to this day. Capt. Don took us straight to one of his honey holes to drop our lines. We soon had our first redfish on board and, despite overcast weather, we shortly

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INTERESTINGLY, THE MANATEES STAY AT THE PARK ONLY LONG ENOUGH TO HEAL FROM WOUNDS OR TRAUMA. AFTER THAT, THEY ARE RELEASED BACK INTO THE WILD. AND THE PARK IS HOME TO FAMOUS LU THE HIPPOPOTAMUS, ITS ONLY NON-NATIVE RESIDENT, WHO HAS BEEN ENTERTAINING VISITORS SINCE 1964. HE IS THE OLDEST HIPPO IN CAPTIVITY IN NORTH AMERICA AND SOUTH AMERICA. snagged our limit for the day. Not wanting to stop there, we asked Don what else might be biting. We headed across the bay to another sweet spot, this time for seatrout. The captain’s familiarity with the area, along with his correct choice of bait for each species of fish, ensured our success. We took our catch back and had it fried up at a local restaurant.

The inclement weather persisted into the next day, so we had to cancel our scalloping trip with Capt. Carey Gibson and his Southern Slam Outfitters skiff. However, we met with the captain over a beer, to discuss Homosassa’s scalloping history, and we learned much from this savvy veteran of the waters. He told us that seven major spring boils flow into the Homosassa River, providing crystal-clear, pure water. Bay scallops are “very particular” and need to live in near-perfect conditions to thrive. Scalloping is done in about 6 feet of water, where the live animals are scooped into mesh bags by snorkelers and hoisted aboard boats. Once the boat’s limit is met, it is time to head back to the docks. There, expert shuckers prepare your catch to be served up in one of the many local restaurants. Scallop season in Florida runs from July 1 through Sept. 25. Surprisingly, the Homosassa River is only about 9 miles long. Its headwaters begin at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, one of the smallest but busiest of Florida’s 175 state parks. We met up there with our guide, Kate Sprat, who gave us a tour of its grounds. We headed out on the 1-mile walking path that circles three of the spring heads that form the Homosassa. Unlike most state parks, Homosassa Springs is more of a nature preserve and is home to hundreds of native wildlife species. We encountered endangered Florida panthers, red wolves, whooping cranes, black bears and gators, as well as three captive manatees. Interestingly, the manatees stay at the park only long enough to heal from wounds or trauma. After that, they are released back into the wild. And the park is home to famous Lu the hippopotamus, its only non-native

Homosassa— RIVER

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OF FISH

TOP PHOTO BY DAVE KELLY; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF FCRR

resident, who has been entertaining visitors since 1964. He is the oldest hippo in captivity in North America and South America. A trip to Homosassa should include a stop at Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park. Built in 1851 by U.S. Sen. David Levy Yulee, the large steam-driven mill ran until 1864. It produced sugar, syrup and rum-producing molasses for export throughout the U.S. The farm was largely destroyed during the Civil War, but ghostly ruins of the mill still stand by the roadside.

Cap. Don Chancey wsho o the rst catch of the day.

If you are planning a Florida road trip to check out small-town hospitality and history, Homosassa should definitely make your itinerary! FCM

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Florida Cracker Riverside Resort 5297 S. Cherokee Way Homosassa, Florida 352-628-2474 floridacrackerriversideresort.com Above right is Monkey Island before it had monkeys, and above is how it looks today. Below is the Florida Cracker Monkey Bar, known as "The Original Floridian."

Flats Chance Charters Capt. Don Chancey 352-303-9399 flatschance.com Southern Slam Outfitters Capt. Carey Gibson 352-361-0731 southernslamoutfitters.com Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park 9350 W. Fishbowl Drive Homosassa, Florida 352-628-2311 floridastateparks.org

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Aerial view of Jensen's Twin aP lm Cotages and Marina on Captiva Island, in Floridas' Lee County. Be,wlo a manatee frolics near the marina; at right is a view from one of the beach suites at Jensen's "On the Gul" Beach Resor.

Toes

in the Sand

JENSEN'S CAPTIVA ISLAND BEACH & MARINA RESORTS TURNING THE TIDE

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY NICK ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

Written by: Ava Grace

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The historic property is known for being home to world-class fishing, whether from the resort's private dock or one of its rental boats. At bottom is its on-site Captiva Fishing Museum.

icture this—pink-and-blue morning skies above with gentle waves splashing below. A pod of dolphins softly dipping up and down. A sailboat swaying on the horizon. Squawking seabirds wading on the shoreline. Shells of various shapes and sizes waiting for discovery, and soft, sugary sand making its way between your toes.

Everything is just steps away from the white wooden cottages that have sat snuggled by the bay since being built between 1948 and 1954, with the very first one built in 1926. The cozy cottages, 15 in all, hold many memories for visitors who have made their way to Jensen's Captiva Island Beach & Marina Resorts over the years— visitors who include the likes of John F. Kennedy Jr., Ted Turner, Danny DeVito and Kevin Costner.

BOTTOM MIDDLE COURTESY OF JENSEN'S CIBM RESORTS, BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO BY NICK ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

Of course the cottages on Captiva Island, in Florida’s Lee County, also hold decades of fond memories for the Jensen family. Red Jensen purchased the acre property in 1977 from the Doane family. “The first place I stayed in after

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e cozy woden cotages that snule by the bay were built between 1948 and 1954, with the very rst one built in 1926.

our parents took ownership was apartment No. 12. It’s an upstairs unit with a balcony, and even today it always brings back good memories,” John Jensen explains.

the Bubble Room, Mucky Duck, Key Lime Bistro, Green Flash and Doc Ford's are close by, as is beautiful Sanibel Island with its wealth of attractions.

John now owns the resort with his younger brother Jimmy, older brother Dave, and their families. Their sister, Pat, who resides in Seattle, is also a part-owner and continues to help out with the business.

What’s also close by is the world-renowned fishing that the Gulf of Mexico offers. “The best nearby catch is snook, redfish, trout and tarpon,” notes John. This time of year, snook, redfish, trout, mangrove snapper and sheepshead are biting.

The Jensen family moved to Captiva from Detroit when the children were in their 20s. John adds, “We all came down to this island paradise to help run the resort. I thought I died and went to heaven!”

Thanks to the resort’s marina, with boat rentals available, deeper water fishing is accessible for all. There is also fishing off the resort’s private dock, where—on a good day— sheepshead, snook, redfish and snapper can be reeled in.

Along with the cottages, there are also beach suites and garden suites at the nearby Jensen's "On the Gulf" Beach Resort. Examples include the Penthouse and the Honeymoon Suite, which both offer fabulous views of the Gulf of Mexico, all while being surrounded by lush and colorful vegetation.

Another point of interest on the property is a museum with artifacts dating back as far as 40 years. There are photos of past guests (some famous), and items donated by a family friend and Vietnam War veteran that include his helmet, boots, patches and photos. John says, “We also have personal items from Ted Williams, who used to fish in the area, and who is in the Baseball Hall of Fame, Fishing Hall of Fame and also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his service during World War II.”

Families—and anglers—return again and again to enjoy the feeling of getting away from it all while not really being too far away from it all. Indeed, a trove of restaurants such as

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TOP PHOTO BY MICHAEL BERIO/REALTOURS; INSET PHOTO COURTESY OF JENSEN’S TWIN PALM MARINA RESORT AND COTTAGES

FAMILIES—AND ANGLERS—RETURN AGAIN AND AGAIN TO ENJOY THE FEELING OF GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL WHILE NOT REALLY BEING TOO FAR AWAY FROM IT ALL.

PHOTO CREDIT TOP PHOTOS BYINFO SCARLETT REDENIUS; MIDDLE PHOTOS COURTESY OF JENSEN’S TWIN PALM MARINA RESORT AND COTTAGES; BOTTOM PHOTO BY MICHAEL BERIO/REALTOURS

Top le phot captures the smilng Jensen brothers—John, Dave and Jimmy. Top right are John and longtime employee, friend and local shing expert David Godfrey. Guests have odg times and make great memories, as midle phots prveo . Above, the win "glo g" property always eg ts win glo g reviews on social media. F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

Aboev , many amous u g esst ah ev etisv d eht resro t evo r eht ed cades and eht ri sothp are alpsid yed n i eht museum and rht u o u ohg t eht marina rots e. alB cka- ndetihw- sothp fo eh resro t ad et rf m o eht 1950s.

Many years have gone by. Now it’s now time for the Jensens to pass the property along to another person or family that would enjoy meeting guests from around the world, hearing great fishing stories and reading the many guests’ vast amounts of positive comments on TripAdvisor. Yes, Jensen's Captiva Island Beach & Marina Resorts is up for sale. Although when the property sells, John says he isn’t going too far: “My plan is to stay in the area and do more boating, and spend more time with my wife, Gina, and our son, Johnny.” Dave and his wife, Vanessa, moved to Italy last year; Jimmy and his wife, Elizabeth, plan to do a little traveling and spend time with family. After the property changes hands, John says he will miss making more memories. He will miss meeting all the different people who visit the resort, seeing the beautiful sunrises when he goes to work in the morning and feeling the sugary sand beneath his toes when he wanders down to the beach. FCM

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE: COURTESY OF JENSEN’S TWIN PALM MARINA RESORT AND COTTAGES; PHOTOS OPPOSITE PAGE: TOP RIGHT PHOTO BY SCARLETT REDENIUS; OTHER PHOTOS BY NICK ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

ANOTHER POINT OF INTEREST ON THE PROPERTY IS A MUSEUM WITH ARTIFACTS DATING BACK AS FAR AS 40 YEARS. THERE ARE PHOTOS OF PAST GUESTS (SOME FAMOUS), AND ITEMS DONATED BY A FAMILY FRIEND AND VIETNAM WAR VETERAN, AND ALSO PERSONAL ITEMS FROM TED WILLIAMS.

JENSEN’S TWIN PALM MARINA RESORT AND COTTAGES "Twin Palm" Cottages & Marina 15107 Captiva Drive, Captiva, Florida 239-472-5800, gocaptiva.com JENSEN'S "ON THE GULF" BEACH RESORT 15300 Captiva Drive, Captiva, Florida 239-472-4684, gocaptiva.com

PHOTO CREDIT INFO

e Jensen amily moved from Detroit when they purchased the property in 1977. John says, e"W all came wn do to this island paradise to help run the resor. I thought I died and went to heaven!" Now up orf sale, the amily says sit' time orf new wn o ers to enjoy meeting guests from around the world.

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FLORIDA EXCURIONS

HEAD FOR THE DUNES AT TOPSAIL HILL STATE PARK SANTA ROSA BEACH GEM IS IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S WALTON COUNTY

Written by: Ava Grace

hite quartz dunes at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park rise above the ground like a ship’s sail, all while enclosing freshwater dune lakes that bristle with aquatic sea life. Wooden boardwalks invite guests to walk past the impressive 25-foot tall dunes, down to three miles of pristine shoreline wrapped along the Gulf of Mexico’s emerald waters. That vivid description is only part of the story of the state park, as noted on its website, floridastateparks.org/parksand-trails/topsail-hill-preserve-state-park. There is much more to this Santa Rosa Beach gem, located in northwest Florida’s Walton County.

for Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection. Hikers might also see otherworldly-looking pitcher plants, which are carnivorous. Wildlife spotting may include Choctawhatchee beach mice, colorful birds such as bluebirds, cardinals, red-shouldered hawks and snowy plovers, and possibly even white-tailed deer. Anglers are in luck—there is freshwater fishing in the coastal dune lakes—and bass, pan fish and freshwater catfish can be reeled in. Fishing from the shoreline can pull in pompano, redfish, bream, Spanish mackerel and king mackerel. (Florida fishing licenses are required and motorized boats are not allowed). Although a trip to the park is excellent for a day trip or a morning hike, it’s even better when the plans are for an overnight stay or longer. “The Gregory E. Moore RV Resort campground has 156 RV (up to 45 feet) sites with water, 30-amp or 50-amp electric, digital cable, sewer, laundry facilities, bathrooms with showers, and shuffleboard courts,” explains Cronin.

“The hiking trails offer old-growth pine forests, sandy scrubland, dunes and wetlands, where 13 imperiled species find refuge,” explains Alex Cronin, spokesperson

If you don’t have an RV, no worries—furnished bungalows with full kitchens and bathrooms are available for weekly stays. Plus, big rigs are also welcome. Reservations can be

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT FLORIDA

Visitors who love to get out on the water can rent kayaks, canoes and SUPs through the campground store. Those who prefer to hike will enjoy 10 miles of trails through a 1,600acre preserve, and a half-mile jaunt from the campground down to the Gulf waters.

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TOP LEFT, TOP RIGHT AND BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT FLORIDA

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a favorite of visitors who love to get out on the water, and who love watching wildlife.

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FLORIDA EXCURIONS

made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Book online or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287. Native Americans once used the land for fishing, hunting and camping. And during the late 1800s to mid-1900s, old-growth longleaf pines, now part of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, were turpentined (sap removed) by workers from the Quarters Turpentine Village. The turpentine was used to maintain wooden ships. Sap-removal scars, “catface” shaped, can still be seen in many living trees.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and Gregory E. Moore RV Resort 7525 W. County Highway 30A Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 850-245-2157 floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ topsail-hill-preserve-state-park

LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT FLORIDA ; MIDDLE PHOTO COURTESY OF TOPSAIL HILL PRESERVE STATE PARK

Concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, Florida’s state parks follow local orders for facial coverings and masks. Visitors are expected to maintain distances of at least 6 feet apart. FCM

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F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

RODEO PROFILE

FLORIDA RODEO ATHLETE BECOMES PART OF HISTORY AMANDA COLEMAN RANKS 9TH IN NFR’S NEWEST EVENT

Written by: Kathy Ann Gregg

ith COVID-19 closing down professional rodeos from mid-March to late May, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association rallied to ensure that the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo would proceed. And with the temporary relocation to Globe Life Field (home to the Texas Rangers baseball franchise) in Arlington, Texas, for the 2020 event, the organization has made a historical change in adding women’s breakaway roping to the line-up of events.

Coleman started rodeoing at age 3, when she ran barrels, poles and goats in the peewee/tiny tots division. When she was 6, she picked up a rope to imitate her dad, John, who was a team roper—and her fate was sealed! First up was All Florida Junior Rodeo, then three years in Cinch Junior High Rodeo, with Florida High School Rodeo as a finale, winning the All-Around Cowgirl title several times at both levels. She was a member of the National Barrel Horse Association, taking home the 2D National Champion title in 2013 on “Alive With Chaos,” owned by Heather Fleckinger. For six consecutive years, Coleman was a multiple-event qualifier at national finals—in breakaway, barrels, team roping, goattying and ribbon roping in junior high, and breakaway, team roping and goat-tying at the high school level. While making the short-go rounds several years at National High School Finals Rodeos, her crowning achievement came during seventh grade at the Cinch National Junior High Finals, where she won Reserve National Champion in—what else—but breakaway roping. And all of this was done while also competing in the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association events and U.S. Team Roping Championships. After her third year in high school rodeo competitions, while a national championship in breakaway roping A true Floridian all the way—Amanda Coleman even takes her ropes to the beach!

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PHOTO BY PAUL GRAY

Only the top 15 contestants compete at the NFR, and the Sunshine State is proud to have Melbourne native Amanda Coleman in that group for the inaugural event. Only 19 years old, she currently ranks ninth in the world in breakaway roping—a lot to have accomplished in a mere 16 years.

TOP LEFT AND BOTTOM LEFT PHOTOS BY REBECCA CORNELIUS/RC PHOTOGRAPHY; TOP RIGHT PHOTO BY MIKE RASTELLI; BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA COLEMAN

Clockwise from above left, Coleman competing in last year's Wrangler National Finals; showing perfect breakaway roping form at the 2018 Florida High School Rodeo in Ocala; waiting with JJ Hampton at January 2020's Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo; with her roping horse, "Bubble Freckles 210," known as "Cheeca."

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RODEO PROFILE While 2020 is a year many would gladly forget, it's just the opposite for Coleman and Cheeca.

was easily within her grasp, Coleman decided to “go big or go home.” With the blessing of her loving parents, the aforementioned John, and Patti, she completed her senior year of high school online from Texas, where she’d relocated to focus on her roping career. In roping, a trusted equine partner is a necessity. Coleman was using her own horse, “Chicken,” for team roping and goat-tying when Fleckinger loaned her a roping horse called “Tombstone,” for breakaway. For eight years, this pair worked wonders together. According to Coleman, “Tombstone will always hold a special place in my heart.” In the meantime, Coleman’s parents had purchased a 2-year-old from Buck Daniels Ranch in Okeechobee for only $800. “Bubble Freckles 210,” affectionately called “Cheeca,” then spent a year with Travis Dorman in Dade City to learn how to track the dummy steer, as well as to rope live cattle.

While 2020 is a year many would gladly forget, it’s just the opposite for Coleman: This is the second year she’s qualified for The American Rodeo, set for March of 2021; and in May, she won the average in the fourth annual Charlie 1 All-Girl Challenge as part of Wrangler BFI Week, for a buckle, trophy saddle and a purse of $10,000. After that, she won her first PRCA rodeo, in Gooding, Idaho. While not competing in Las Vegas with all of its glitz and glamour, Coleman knows it will be just as exciting with the electrifying energy that surrounds the NFR. It’s something she’s dreamed of as far back as she can remember. And she thanks her rodeo idols—Jackie Crawford and JJ Hampton. “These two ladies, along with others, have paved the way for many women like me to make a career in roping,” states Coleman, “and for that I am truly blessed.” Amanda Coleman and Cheeca—make Florida proud come Dec. 3 to 12, 2020! FCM

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PHOTO BY REBECCA CORNELIUS/RC PHOTOGRAPHY

From there, she returned to Daniels’ place, where roper Jason Hanchey took over the training of both horse and rider. Coleman calls this “Blood, sweat and tears—learning how to finish Cheeca, and hours in the roping pen, following Hanchey’s daily routine.”

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RODEO PROFILE

RISING STARS OF RODEO FLORIDA YOUTH QUALIFY FOR THE JUNIOR AMERICAN PATRIOT

t was a mere seven years ago when, in 2014, the concept of “the world’s richest one-day rodeo” came to fruition. The “amateurs”—many of them Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association competitors—arrived at the Dallas Cowboys AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, to take on the very best of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo champions.

where the ladies get to shine as ropers.

The American Patriot Rodeo, often referred to as just “The American,” has expanded into a week of semi-finals and a weekend for the main event. It now bills itself as “the world’s richest weekend in Western Sports.” The rodeo is scheduled Feb. 26 to March 7, 2021, at Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas. At press time, qualifying events were underway.

Three brothers, Cole, Brody and Owen Clemons, from Okeechobee, are all in the team roping event. The brother/ sister pair of Courtney and Parker Carbajal of New Smyrna Beach qualified together in team roping, and individually with Courtney in goat-tying and breakaway roping, and Parker in tie-down roping. Twin sisters Michelle and Morgan Barnes are in the pole-bending event, with Morgan also qualified in breakaway roping.

And it, like the NFR, has expanded to include a Junior American Patriot Rodeo for youth who are 19 years old and under. It is set March 2 to 6, 2021, at the same venue. Florida will be well represented, because more than 50 of the Sunshine State’s youngsters are to compete in the events of pole-bending, goat-tying, barrel racing, team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling—and the hottest thing in rodeo—breakaway roping,

While the team roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing events cover all ages, the other events are broken down into the following divisions: 12-and-under, 15-and-under and 19-and-under. Twelve-year-olds can qualify in all three divisions, if that is what they register for—which is exactly what 12-year-old Harley Pryor of Moore Haven did, in breakaway roping.

Bud Roebuck’s daughter, McLayne, of Lake Placid, will be competing in barrel racing on her horse “French Contender.” (Bud Roebuck was the 2018 National Reining Horse Association champion, featured in the August/ September 2019 issue of Florida Country Magazine.)

At left, Jerry Easler, 18, of Jennings, qualifying in tie-down roping at National Little Britches Rodeo. Above, Lake Placid's Carlton Pailey Pearce, 9, taking second place in WPRA Junior Barrels at March Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo.

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LEFT PHOTO BY JAMES PHYFER/RODEOBUM.COM, RIGHT PHOTO BY KATHY ANN GREGG

Written by: Kathy Ann Gregg

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY KATHY ANN GREGG, TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF MACI MCDONALD, MIDDLE PHOTOS BY MIKE RASTELLI; BOTTOM PHOTO BY JAMES PHYFER/RODEOBUM.COM

Clockwise from top left, Ryleigh Kaye Adams, of Okeechobee, winning WPRA Junior Barrels at March Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo; Maci McDonald, 16, of St. Cloud, qualifying at National Barrel Horse Association Youth World Finals; New Smyrna Beach's Courtney Carbajal, 15, qualifying in goat-tying at Davie All-Florida Junior Rodeo; Clayton Culligan, 17, of Okeechobee, qualifying in steer wrestling.

McLayne Roebuck of Lake Placid is shown here at the NBHA Youth World Finals this past summer, competing on "French Contender". This pair has since won prize monies at the Pink Buckle in Guthrie, Oklahoma, and the Ruby Buckle in Memphis, Tennessee.

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RODEO PROFILE

McLayne Roebuck and French Contender did quite well at this past summer’s National Barrel Horse Association Youth World Finals in Perry, Georgia, sending them back to the short round in the 1D Division. They will be joined by 12 other young ladies, with some qualifying on more than one equine partner. Nine-year-old Carlton Pailey Pearce, also from Lake Placid, is a prime example of these Florida rodeo youngsters. Mom Lacy says, “She works so hard with her horses, and it is nice to see how things are working out for her.” Carlton will be competing on “Little Nitro 308,” whom she affectionately calls “Priscilla.” This pair took second place in the WPRA Junior Barrels at the March Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo. In addition

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to competing, Carlton and younger brother Olan help out in the arena rounding up the stock during the roping events. These talented kids are from Miami-Dade in South Florida to Pensacola in the Panhandle, and all points in between. Many qualified through the Southern Most Rodeo, held July 30 at Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center. Others got in with National Little Britches Rodeo on July 7 at Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma; Roy Cooper, Jr.’s Roping on July 3 or the NRS Timed Events on July 6, both in Decatur, Texas; or the Cody Ohl Roping on July 11 in San Antonio. Early March of 2021 will see them start out at the Semi-Finals at the Fort Worth Stockyards, with hopes of making it to “The American” itself! FCM

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY OLIE’S IMAGES, TOP RIGHT PHOTO BY KATHY ANN GREGG; OTHER PHOTOS BY MIKE RASTELLI

Clockwise from top left, Felda's Kaydence Tindall, 15, qualifying at Chris Neal's Future Stars of Calf Roping; Maci at National Little Britches Rodeo; Kaydence at Florida High School Rodeo in Ocala; Courtney at Moore Haven Cinch Junior High Rodeo.

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THE HOMESTEAD

RARE WESTERN PARADISE IN BROOKSVILLE ‘CAN’T-MISS OPPORTUNITY’ PERFECT FOR CATTLE OR HORSE OPERATION

The home boasts more than 3,800 square feet and features an executive master bedroom and large master bath, three large guest bedrooms, office, gourmet kitchen, eat-in and formal

dining space and two large living rooms. It also has a Florida room—with expansive views of grandfather oaks—tons of storage, detached garage, home generator, amazing outdoor space with mature landscaping, and lovely front porch. Additional features include grand floor-to-ceiling windows and brick fireplace, French doors, solid-pine cathedral ceilings and oak flooring. The kitchen has solid-oak cabinetry, granite countertops and a JennAir stove with grill.

THE METAL-ROOFED center-aisle barn has 10 stalls, tack room, feed room, front and rear porches, numerous turnout paddocks, arena and round pen. There also are dog kennels, a two-stall run-in barn, three wells, working cow pens, gated entrance, paved driveway, improved pastures and four-board fencing.

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF FLORIDA CRACKER PROPERTIES

rare Western paradise, located at 25212 Croom Road in Brooksville, Florida, is now on the market. The 22-acre ranch estate is a block away from the state forest and is packed full of beautiful details and functional purpose.

Adding to the appeal of the 22-acre ranch estate are expansive views of grandfather oaks, and amazing outdoor space with mature landscaping. The garage/workshop encompasses 2,900 square feet.

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THE HOMESTEAD

Desirable features in the 3,800-square-foot home include a gourmet kitchen, executive master bedroom, and solid-pine cathedral ceilings.

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THE 22-ACRE RANCH ESTATE IS A BLOCK AWAY FROM THE STATE FOREST AND IS PACKED FULL OF BEAUTIFUL DETAILS AND FUNCTIONAL PURPOSE. The approximately 2,900-square-foot garage/ workshop has a large office, downstairs halfbath, elevator and 500-square-foot upstairs apartment. The extensive storage/unfinished space could double the size of the living space, and there is more than 1,000 square feet of covered outdoor storage space.

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF FLORIDA CRACKER PROPERTIES

The metal-roofed center-aisle barn has 10 stalls, tack room, feed room, front and rear porches, numerous turnout paddocks, arena and round pen. There also are dog kennels, a two-stall runin barn, three wells, working cow pens, gated entrance, paved driveway, improved pastures and four-board fencing. Set up perfectly for a cattle or horse operation, this ranch is a “can’tmiss opportunity”! This property is offered by Erica Sumner, owner/broker of Florida Cracker Properties (floridacrackerproperties.com), 962 E. Jefferson St., Brooksville, Florida. Contact her at 352-345-8151 or 352-397-9075, or email erica@flacracker.com. FCM

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PICTURE PERFECT

WELL, HELLO DOLLY!

ampa-based Jennifer Casares, owner of Jennifer Casares Photography, took this photo with a Canon 7D at Roos and Coos Farm in Plant City, Florida, in Hillsborough County. In early 2020, she began following the farm on Instagram “and fell in LOVE with all their sweet animals. They’d only just opened when the pandemic hit. I saw that the owner, Christina, was planning on reopening in December.” So Casares offered to photograph the animals and “how friendly they are, to encourage people to come out and visit with their families. On that first visit, I fell in love with Dolly Llama and decided to come back with my son’s friend, Lily, to do fun Christmas photos! We had a great time! Make sure you support your local farms and businesses!”

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Photo by: Jennifer Casares

Photo by: Bonnie Williams Anderson

Photo by: April Lopez

MAJESTIC BEAUTY AND GRACE

onnie Williams Anderson, of the Lake County city of Groveland, Florida, owns Winter Haven-based Life Seized Photography. To get this shot on County Road 707 in Webster, in Sumter County, she used a Canon 80D with Sigma 60-600 Sports Lens. “As a Florida native, I love traveling the back roads,” she says. “On my travels to volunteer at Chase Animal Rescue Sanctuary [in Webster], through the hammock oaks, is a herd of Florida Longhorn cattle. Their majestic beauty and grace amaze me. This ‘sun-kissed beauty’ was peeking through the brush as if to think she was hidden.”

FAWNING OVER FALL

“L

ate August to early November, the fawns are out and about in Jackson County!” explains April Lopez, who lives in Marianna, the county seat. “I captured this beautiful fawn [with a Nikon D3300] as he and his mother were on their way to a neighboring field. He stopped for a moment, giving me this beautiful shot. I’ve been passionate about wildlife and photography for years. It brings such enjoyment. Fall is such a fun time to photograph wildlife, especially fawns. I love being able to capture beautiful moments in nature and share with others—so they, too, can enjoy!”

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PICTURE PERFECT

Photo by: Sandy Shoop

CRUISING (SO TO SPEAK) ALONG

andy Shoop, of Hillsborough County’s Balm, Florida, had her Galaxy S10 cellphone handy while visiting Egmont Key State Park in St. Petersburg, in Pinellas County. Shoop says, “Our family took a day trip on the ferry to Egmont Key to celebrate my niece’s birthday. While enjoying the beautiful beach, we also explored the remains of Fort Dade—which was built in 1898. This little guy was cruising around the top of a lookout spot. A great reminder that Florida is full of rich history and the state parks protect the lands untouched by development.”

Photo by: Madison Ayers

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MOMENT IN TIME

asco County’s Dade City, Florida, resident Madison Ayers took along a Canon 6D when she and her family visited the Taylor County town of Steinhatchee. Ayers notes, “I find myself watching and observing my husband and daughter when we’re in the woods or out on the water—and I constantly feel the need to stop the moment in time, because my biggest fear is forgetting that memory. Photography has been a creative outlet for me to capture those precious moments that I will never be able to get back again!”

Photo by: Shane Cribbs

THAT’S SOME SNOOK!

“T

his is a photo of my 8-year-old son, Jacoby. I love making memories with him and seeing him catch a fish of a lifetime,” states Shane Cribbs of Eagle Lake, Florida, in Polk County. The two were fishing on the Peace River and, fortunately, Dad happened to have taken along his Galaxy S10 cellphone. “Photography is important to me because it allows the moments to be captured,” Cribbs adds.

DARLA COULDN’T RESIST

N Photo by: Nikki Feldman

ikki Feldman, of Indiantown, Florida, in Martin County, used a Canon 5D Mark IV to shoot this image in her back pasture. “Photography allows me to capture the inner beauty of nature and draw attention to the simple pleasures of life,” she explains. “Pictured is Darla, my Brahman-cross heifer. She couldn’t resist getting involved in my photoshoot one afternoon. Thankfully, she did, and because of her, I now have a beautiful picture of her with my grandma’s rocking chair that has been passed down from generations.”

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FLORIDA MEMORIES

OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM FLORIDA POSTCARDS INCITED ENVY WHEN SENT FROM SUNSHINE STATE TO NORTHERN FRIENDS, FAMILY Written by: Brenda Eubanks Burnette

I have several postcards from the 1920s and 1930s that boast beautiful citrus-themed artwork, and writing that states “Christmas Greetings from Florida.” All required only a penny or two to mail. One postcard says “Place One Cent Stamp Here” and another says “for United States and Island Possessions, Cuba, Canada and Mexico. TWO CENTS for Foreign.” It’s hard to believe that 2 cents would get that card overseas—even back in the 1920s! Obviously, some people liked to incite envy from their Northern friends and family members. One of the postcards shows a cold winter scene next to a scene of balmy Florida. It was printed by The Hartman Card Co. of Portland, Maine, and of Tampa. The tagline on the front reads “You

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can coast in the North while I pick flowers in the Sunshine State” and the back notes “From the Mountain Pines of Maine to the Sunny Sands of Florida.” And then there are the cute postcards, such as a smiling orange topped with a Santa hat, and the greeting “Merry Christmas from Florida.” Another postcard shows a box of fruit with writing on the side of the box that says “Here’s the box of fruit I promised you from Florida”—meaning there is no real box of fruit, just the postcard! Some of the holiday postcards even have poems on them. One is titled “Hearty Christmas Greeting from Florida.” The verse says: “From grapefruit tree and fruitful vine I send this hearty wish of mine, May the Christmas Day be filled with cheer And happiness follow you all the year.” A wonderful wish to leave you with! And for those of you who’d like to see more citrus-themed postcards, visit the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame website at FloridaCitrusHallofFame.com. The Florida Citrus Hall of Fame works in partnership with Florida Southern College’s McKay Archives Center in Lakeland. FCM

POSTCARDS COURTESY OF FLORIDA CITRUS HALL OF FAME

n the dead of winter, the Sunshine State is always quite appealing to our Northern neighbors, with many of them making Florida their winter home. In decades past, snowbirds would communicate with friends and family members—especially at Christmastime—through postcards, because that was the most affordable way to keep in touch.

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WILD FLORIDA

WINTERTIME WADE FISHING FOR SEATROUT IN RECENT YEARS, IT’S THE MOST-CAUGHT INSHORE FISH SPECIES BY PRIVATE OR RENTAL BOATS

Written by:Paul Thurman, Ph.D.

t was cold—at least cold for a Tampa winter in January. A front had come through a couple days earlier and an old friend had somehow talked me in to a wade fishing trip for spotted seatrout. Also called speckled trout, it is actually a member of the drum family and not the trout family. I couldn’t believe I agreed to it, but my friend’s constant badgering finally wore me down. Besides, who knows? I might learn something new and if we didn’t catch anything, he’d never hear the end of it. Basically it was a win-win situation, I thought. After a stop at the local bait shop to pick up a few dozen shrimp, we arrived at the boat ramp and suited up. Wade fishing was the goal of the morning; the air temperature

Most seatrout are not particularly large, although you can increase your chances of catching bigger fish by using somewhat larger baits consisting of or resembling fish.

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was in the high 30s, so neoprene waders were a necessity. I tied my bait bucket to my tackle pack and began to wade down the flat in waist-deep water, throwing a popping cork with a live shrimp suspended a few feet beneath it. We were wading the edge of a drop-off from the flat into a deep channel that flowed a mile or two into the Gulf of Mexico, fishing in about 6 feet to 8 feet of water. After a sharp pop or two of the cork to cause some commotion, my bobber went down and didn’t come back up. A short time later, a nice seatrout was on my stringer. That’s how the rest of the morning went—one fish after another until all my shrimp were gone and I had a nice limit of seatrout. Time to go get some breakfast and warm up. It wasn’t even 10 a.m. yet.

Spotted seatrout can be identified by the numerous spots on their back and their large front canine teeth.

TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, spotted seatrout were the most-caught inshore fish species by private boats or rental boats in recent years. That was certainly the case in my family growing up on Tampa Bay. In a family of fishermen, we most often targeted seatrout. They were abundant, good to eat and relatively easy to catch. While I don’t target seatrout too often anymore, they have a special place in my heart and I still think of my granddad every time I catch a nice one.

predator on seagrass flats. Much of my youth was spent drifting the grass flats north of the Gandy Bridge in Tampa, fishing for seatrout. Seatrout are predators that feed on just about any small fish or crustacean that they can fit in their mouth. While shrimp are the most common bait, using small fish such as baby mullet and scaled

Spotted seatrout are one of the most easily identified fish in Florida and are extremely abundant. They can be identified by the numerous spots on their back and their large front canine teeth. Other species of trout can be caught along with spotted seatrout, but they lack the identifying spots. While seatrout can be caught in tidal creeks, around mangroves, oyster beds and virtually any other inshore habitat, they are perhaps the iconic F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

WILD FLORIDA

sardines will often produce larger fish—although in smaller numbers. Also common is using a variety of artificial baits such as soft-tail jigs, weighted imitation shrimp, and both floating and sinking plugs. Ask your local bait shop to provide recommendations on the “hot bait.” My preferred setup for seatrout is a basic flats rig. A 7-foot fast-action rod and a spinning reel spooled with 6-pound or 8-pound monofilament line (or a similar braided line). You often don’t need to worry about structure, so you can let large fish run and tire themselves out if needed. When using live bait, I prefer somewhere between a 1/0 or size 4 hook, usually a short shank as opposed to long. Most seatrout are not particularly large, with the current world record weighing more than 17 pounds. Most trout caught will be less than 15 inches, although you can increase your chances of catching bigger fish by using somewhat larger baits consisting of or resembling fish. I can’t think of any species that’s had more changes in recreational fishing regulations than seatrout. It seems as if total length, slot and/ or bag limit changes about every year. The regulations are also different throughout the state. It can be hard to keep up with them, so make sure you stay up to date to keep legal. Good luck and tight lines! FCM

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F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

MY BEST FRIEND Florida Country Magazine runs a “My Best Friend” contest on Facebook every other month, for each issue of the magazine.

Chobee watches over us when we play and is a great snuggler—even though she snores! We’re lucky to have Chobee: When she was around a year old, she had emergency surgery and they retrieved lots of plastic from her gut. They said that if we had waited any longer, she would have died. That was before my daughter was born; so if Chobee had passed away, my daughter would never have met her!

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Amanda Carlson-Granato of Okeechobee, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Chobee Best Friend’s Breed: Pitbull/Boxer mix

Debbie Howell of Fort Meade, Florida (Photo by Thomas Rex) Best Friend’s Name: Marshal Dillon Best Friend’s Breed: Quarter Horse I was born to a family of Alabama farmers who also raised horses, and moved to Florida in 1918. They were my grandparents; they adopted me after their daughter (my birth mother) passed away in childbirth having me. So horses are in my blood and I’ve loved them all my life. … I received Dillon as a Christmas 2019 gift from God. He was very thin but he's gained 250 pounds. I’m so blessed to have a horse who doesn't intimidate me and takes such good care of his rider. He performs perfectly with just a bitless bridle and leg pressure. … Dillon is all I wanted in a sweet and reliable trail horse!

Officer Angela Creel of Davie, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Officer Drako Best Friend’s Breed: Belgian/Quarter Horse This is my best friend, Drako. Not only is he my best friend, he’s also my work partner—because we both work for the Davie Police Department. We’re honored to serve and protect, and we both enjoy making people smile and keeping our community safe. Drako has been my partner for three years. One of his favorite things is getting to visit schools and interact with kids. I could not have asked for a better partner or best friend.

Briana Tribett of Inverness, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Rossi Best Friend’s Breed: Mixed breed (He’s a mutt!) Rossi is very special. Everyone who meets him falls in love. One video of a 5-week-old pup wagging his tail and I was won over and drove to North

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4 3 6 5 crew in the cow fields. … It’s not an easy job. So when I bring Tuff and Gigolo to help out, they make work easy. Sure makes me look good, being as green as I am!

Carolina to get him. In the two months I’ve had him, he has become my best friend. We’ve been to nine states and made many memories. I can’t wait to make a million more.

Joe Gigliotti of Fort Myers, Florida (Photo by Virginia Marshall Stokes) Best Friends’ Names: Tuff (the dog) and Gigolo (the horse) Best Friends’ Breeds: Mastiff/cur mix. Buckskin Quarter Horse/cow horse bloodline Tuff’s been through thick and thin with me: We rode out Irma together; our home was flooded and we had only each other! He was born in my home and doesn’t leave my side. Gigolo is amazing and the two have a great bond—something I didn’t expect. I believe it’s based on respect and trust. I love being out in the woods with these animals! … They make me proud to be my

Jennifer Egbert of Webster, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Diamond Best Friend’s Breed: Schipperke/Pomeranian mix Diamond means a great deal to me. I adopted her from an animal shelter in Lee County, Florida, 12 years ago. Diamond was approximately 3 when I adopted her and now she’s around 14! She’s been my constant in a life that can throw insane curveballs. She’s the definition of a best friend and always game to go for a ride on the four-wheeler or for a horseback ride around the yard.

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STARS & GUITARS presented by

OUR INTERVIEW: HELPING PARENTS RETIRE, FUN WITH CROCS, HUGE FAN OF FLORIDA

FCM What’s your favorite musical collaboration to date? LC Has to be Eric Church for my song “Does to Me,” that he featured on. Eric was always someone I looked up to, so to be able to do that was a big moment for me. The song ended up going No. 1 on the country charts, which made it even cooler.

Luke Combs

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LUKE COMBS

MEET LUKE COMBS

lorida Country Magazine interviewed singer-songwriter Luke Combs, called “the most promising and influential new country star of the last five years” by The New York Times. On Oct. 23, the multi-platinum, ACM, CMA, CMT and Billboard Music Award-winning artist from Asheville, North Carolina, released his anticipated deluxe album What You See Ain’t Always What You Get. It features all 18 songs from last year’s platinum-certified, global No. 1 record What You See Is What You Get, and also five new tracks, according to lukecombs.com. His triple-platinum debut album, This One’s for You, was the moststreamed country album of 2019. But his “best day” was Aug. 1— when he married longtime fiancée Nicole Hocking, who grew up in Fort Myers. Read on for Combs’ take on these past whirlwind years:

FCM When did you know that you made it big and what did it feel like? LC I’ll always remember the day I was able to help my parents retire. That was a special moment for me. They both have worked tirelessly ever since I can remember to get me to where I am, and now they don’t have to anymore. It’s great because I can have them out at shows and experiences with me now, which is really fun for us. FCM What is the craziest thing you’ve ever been asked to autograph–and did you? LC I once got ask to sign a prosthetic leg, and yes, I absolutely signed it!

PHOTO BY ZACK MASSEY

FCM What was your first song you and your wife danced to, and why did you pick it? LC “Beautiful Crazy.” I fully had her in mind when I wrote it, even though we weren’t officially dating yet. FCM What is the one thing you miss the most since COVID-19? LC Definitely shows and all that comes with them. Seeing and meeting my fans in person, hanging out with my band and crew, and being able to sing in front of thousands of people every night never got old. I miss it a lot. And I hope we get it back soon once it’s safe again.

Y’ALL, THANK YOU FOR BEING SUCH GREAT FANS. I COULDN’T DO WHAT I DO WITHOUT MY FANS, AND I KNOW YOU ARE A BIG PART OF IT. LOVE Y’ALL.

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STARS & GUITARS

SO MUCH HAS HAPPENED THAT I’M GRATEFUL FOR. BEING INDUCTED INTO THE OPRY WILL DEFINITELY ALWAYS BE AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE IN MY LIFE. IT’S SOMETHING I ALWAYS DREAMT OF AND IT WAS A HUGE HONOR. I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT NIGHT.

FCM What made you start a shoe line with Crocs? LC I’ve always loved Crocs, even before I had my own line. I own tons of them. So when they approached my manager—it honestly was just a no-brainer. We have a lot of fun with them.

FCM What would we find in your red Solo Cup, and what would we not? LC I always have one with me on stage. In there you can find a Jack and Diet [Coke] … Probably wouldn’t have vodka and cran in there, though. That’s Nicole’s drink! FCM Florida Country Magazine is out of Fort Myers, Florida, the same place your wife is from. And you are now a Floridian, with buying a home here. What do you like most about our state? LC I love Florida. It obviously is a special place for Nicole, and we just recently bought a house there (and got married there). So it’s become very special for the both of us and the life we’ve made together. Huge fan!

FCM What has been the coolest moment to happen to you while on this crazy ride? LC Man, that’s a tough one. So much has happened that I’m grateful for. Being inducted into the Opry will definitely always be an important milestone in my life. It’s something I always dreamt of and it was a huge honor. I will never forget that night. FCM

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PHOTOS BY JIM WRIGHT

FCM What message would you like us to give to your Florida Country fans? LC Y’all, thank you for being such great fans. I couldn’t do what I do without my fans, and I know you are a big part of it. Love y’all.

F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

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FCM CROSSWORD SUBSCRIBE ONLINE TO OUR PRINT OR DIGITAL MAGAZINE 1 Year $29.95 floridacountrymagazine/ subscribe.com Call today and subscribe 239-692-2613

ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A FREE ONE-YEAR PRINT SUBSCRIPTION. WE WILL RANDOMLY PICK THREE WINNERS THIS ISSUE. Find the hidden word and e-mail, mail or send a message to any of our social media accounts to enter.

ACROSS 1 Big wheel at fairgrounds 4 Okeechobee or Kissimmee 9 Horse breed with spotted coats 10 Intermission 12 Tell a “story” 13 Lawn material 14 Outside dining area 16 Male turkey 17 Email address intro 18 Crab or lobster 22 Walked with a lofty gait 24 Thumper’s “deer friend” 26 __ luck (fortunate) 27 Movie, with Flash 28 Palm Beach’s Reef Road activity 31 “Cool!” in the ’80s 32 Bark 33 Bro’s sibling, maybe 34 Fertile area in a barren land

To Enter Contest for Free Subscription: Email Hidden Word to: publisher@floridacountrymagazine.com Mail Hidden Word to: PO Box 50989 Fort Myers, Florida 33994 Send to Social Media: Facebook, Twitter or Instagram

HIDDEN WORD

DOWN 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 11 15 17 19 20 21 23 24 25 29 30

Stable newborns Whitewater rafting areas Passage to a lagoon Country band National bird Tennis settings Cave exploring Cutting-edge computer science branch, abbr. With no thinking involved Fast Tennis equipment Street-shading tree Kitty treat Compact ___ (pl.) Braying pack animal Recycling place Civil aviation controllers Dog tags, e.g.

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TECH TALK

LIVING THE LIFTED LIFESTYLE MAKE SURE YOUR TRICKED-OUT VEHICLES GET REGULAR CHECK-UPS AND MAINTENANCE Written by: Savage 4x4/Linda Thompson

One thing that can instantly improve an experience with lifted vehicles is understanding that they require more maintenance than their non-lifted kin—and you must be sure to get a vehicle check-up after having a big lift installed. When you lift a vehicle, often you are cutting crossmembers, replacing control arms and replacing/relocating brake lines. A check-up on these components is a great way to catch problems before they catch up to you. Here at Savage 4x4, located at 5770 Enterprise Parkway in Fort Myers, Florida, we have our customers return after 500 miles to check and retighten all fasteners. We mark fasteners at install so we can note any movement or backing off. This is also beneficial for those DIY folks. Don’t just take our word for it! Most reputable brands, including Rough Country Suspension Systems, say the same thing in their installation instructions. Rough Country recommends “all components must be retightened after 500 miles, and every 3,000 miles after installation,” as noted in the installation manual for a 2020 F250 6-inch suspension lift.

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These recommendations coincide well with tire rotation and oil change intervals. We recommend getting those done also, while you’re at it! Finally, we come back around to the facts that any seasoned lifted vehicle owner knows: Stuff wears out a little faster. When 14-inch-wide wheels were put on, the wheel bearings didn’t get any larger. When putting on 40-inch mud tires, ball joints are not stronger. We see it all the time—moving components get swapped out sooner with a tricked-out truck. Most people know the cost of “admission” and gladly pay it to be a “cool daily driver” or a “capable weekend warrior.” Regular check-ups will help you catch rotating and moving parts that need your attention before they become a larger problem. See a theme here? We’ve covered some basics for lifted vehicle maintenance, but what about when you sink it? You took your daily to the mud hole, got it washed off, but what now? Grease! When in doubt—grease! Now not many stock components are serviceable or can be greased up years ago, but chances are that if you have a lift, some of those components are going to have grease fittings. When you push fresh grease into a moving part, you will also push out that mud and dirt that’s accumulated. This will extend the life of your moving parts and save you money.

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF SAVAGE 4X4

riving a lifted vehicle is a lifestyle. And people who are living that lifestyle typically have a host of stories under their belt about triumph and failure when it comes to DIYs, mud holes and “shade tree mechanics.”

The next items you are going to want to check are anything with a vent tube or fill tube. Depending on what you got in to, mud and water tend to make their way into gear boxes, differentials and transmissions. Pulling a transmission dipstick to check can save you a lot of money. Differential fill plugs are a “tell,” as well. When differential fill plugs are checked on level ground, you should have little

to nothing coming out because that is the fill line. If you see a bunch of goop coming out from a fill plug, you know it’s time to flush it out. By following these recommendations, you will keep your vehicle running longer and save a lot of money! We at Savage 4x4 provide all of these services—and more. Call us at 239-689-1428 to get a quote. FCM

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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. INGREDIENTS 1 can refrigerated biscuits 12-ounce package maple sausage 3 tablespoons butter ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper ¼ cup all-purpose flour 3 cups whole milk Salt and pepper to taste

BISCUITS AND MAPLE SAUSAGE GRAVY

PREPARATION Cook biscuits per directions. Place sausage in large, deep skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until evenly brown. Add butter until melted. Sprinkle flour and cayenne pepper over sausage and mix. Stir until smooth. Reduce heat to medium and cook until light brown. Gradually whisk in milk, cook until thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in cooked sausage. Reduce heat, simmer 12 to 15 minutes. If gravy gets too thick, add a little more milk to desired consistency.

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Serves 6

INGREDIENTS 1 package bacon 8 extra-large eggs 28-ounce package frozen Potatoes O’Brien 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 2 sprigs green onions, chopped for garnish Salt and pepper to taste PREPARATION set In large skillet, cook bacon until crispy and with et aside. On medium-high heat, take skill bacon drippings and add Potatoes O’Brien. y. Cook until tender and browned, slightly crisp add In another pan, add eggs. Scramble; then potato mixture and toss to combine. Add salt to and pepper to taste. Crumble bacon into pota se chee all l and egg mixture. Add cheese. Mix unti . serve is melted. Garnish with green onions and

FARMERS BOWL Serves 4

INGREDIENTS 1 package smoked sausage 20-ounce package frozen diced potatoes 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese ½ cup sour cream 10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup 1 medium onion, chopped ¼ cup butter, melted Salt and pepper to taste

CHEESY POTATO AND SMOKED SAUSAGE BAKE Serves 6

PREPARATION Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray 13x9-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. Cut sausage into ½-inch cubes. Combine all ingredients in large bowl. Spread mixture in pan. Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until lightly browned. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

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THE CULINARY CRACKER OVERNIGHT APPLECINNAMON FRENCH TOAST BAKE Serves 15

INGREDIENTS ½ cup butter, melted ¾ cup brown sugar 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon 4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced 18 slices Pepperidge Farm cinnamon raisin bread 6 eggs 1½ cups milk 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract ½ cup maple syrup PREPARATION Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan. In small bowl, stir together melted butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. Place sliced apples in large bowl. Pour sugar mixture over them, tossing to

evenly coat apples. Spread apple mixture into bottom of greased pan. Layer bread slices on top of filling, pressing down. In medium bowl, beat eggs with the milk and vanilla. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread until completely absorbed. Spray aluminum foil with non-stick spray and cover the pan, refrigerating overnight. Next morning, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Put covered pan on cookie sheet in case of overflow. Bake 70 to 75 minutes. When done, remove from oven and turn on broiler. Remove foil, drizzle maple syrup on top of egg topping. Broil 2 minutes or until syrup begins to caramelize. Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes, then cut into squares. Invert pan onto a serving tray or baking sheet so apple filling is on top. Serve hot.

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INGREDIENTS 1 can biscuits 12 large eggs 12 slices bacon ½ onion, finely chopped 2 cups spinach, chopped 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Dash of salt and pepper PREPARATION Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cook bacon in pan over medium heat about 5 minutes, a until cooked through but not crispy. Spray Tear y. spra ing cook stick muffin tin with nonof six biscuits into halves. Press flat in bottom each in slice n baco a e each muffin cup. Plac cup, wrapping it around the outer edges. In medium bowl, whisk eggs until blended. Add ns, dash of salt and pepper. Add chopped onio ly. ough thor bine Com spinach and cheese. Pour mixture into each muffin cup lined with bacon. Bake until eggs are fluffy and slightly browned on top, 30 to 35 minutes.

SPINACH QUICHE Serves 6

BACON-WRAPPED SPINACH OMELET BITES Yields 12

INGREDIENTS 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 small onion, chopped 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped s 8 ounces sliced fresh mushroom led mb cru , feta lic gar e 6-ounce packag ese che r dda che ed 1 package shredd Salt and pepper to taste crust 9-inch unbaked deep-dish pie ten 4 large eggs, bea 1 cup whole milk PREPARATION Bake pie crust 6 to 7 Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. brown. Remove from oven. minutes, until bottom is golden over medium heat. Sauté In medium skillet, melt butter in butter for 7 minutes, until garlic, mushrooms and onion s have cooked down. Stir lightly browned and mushroom ddar. Season with salt and in spinach, feta and half of che crust. In medium bowl, pepper. Spoon mixture into pie Season with salt and pepper. whisk together eggs and milk. mixture to combine with Pour into pie shell, allowing egg s. Sprinkle top with rest spinach mixture. Bake 15 minute s, until set in center. Let of cheddar. Bake 35 to 40 minute g. stand 10 minutes before servin F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

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F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

Florida Country Magazine - December 2020 / January 2021

Articles inside

WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN

LIVING THE LIFTED LIFESTYLE

MEET LUKE COMBS

WINTERTIME WADE FISHING FOR SEATROUT

OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM FLORIDA

PICTURE PERFECT

THE HOMESTEAD

RARE WESTERN PARADISE IN BROOKSVILLE

RISING STARS OF RODEO

FLORIDA RODEO ATHLETE BECOMES PART OF HISTORY

HEAD FOR THE DUNES AT TOPSAIL HILL STATE PARK

Toes in the Sand

RIVER OF FISH Homosassa—

MEET 2020 MISS UNITED STATES AGRICULTURE

SIGN OF SUCCESS IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S OKALOOSA COUNTY

FLORIDA HARVEST

TUPELO HONEY IS TRULY TERRIFIC

THE ALTOONA TRAIL RIDERS OF LAKE COUNTY

PROJECT CALF

PROTECT YOUR PETS AND YOURSELF FROM LEPTOSPIROSIS

CHEERS TO NOT LIVING IN FEAR AND LOOKING FOR BETTER!

FEATURES