Florida Country Magazine - June / July 2020 by Florida Country Magazine

FEATURES

FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE / ISSUE VOL. 4 â&#x20AC;¢ NO. 3

ON THE COVER: Seven-year-old Luke Keeling went on a turkey hunt with his dad. He had high hopes of bagging his first turkey, and that is exactly what he did. His mother, Renata Keeling, captured the moment of an extremely excited young man with his first jake. See page 48.

A Cowboy's Life for Me Stories of Wild Florida, Hidden Treasure and Good Cattle

Legend Lives On at The Belleview Inn

Circa-1897 Destination Hotel Now Renovated for 21st Century 2

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DEPARTMENTS FLORIDA COUNTRY MAGAZINE / ISSUE VOL. 4 • NO. 3

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WILD FLORIDA

A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER

BOUNTIFUL EVENING IN THE SUNSHINE STATE

page 8

page 60

FLORIDA 4-H

MY BEST FRIEND

SUSTAINABLY RAISE CROPS AND LIVESTOCK

page 10

PLENTY OF AGRICULTURAL JOBS FOR YOUTH

page 64

page 14

A SPIRITED ENTREPRENEUR

page 66

HORSIN' AROUND THE AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE

STARS & GUITARS

page 18

MEET ASHLEY MCBRYDE

EQUINE LOVERS FIND FRIENDSHIP AND FUN

page 24

ALL EYES AND EARS ON HORSE THIEVES

page 70

page 28

page 73

TECH TALK

CAMP MACK PERFECT FOR ANGLERS, FAMILIES, ‘KODAK MOMENTS’

page 74

page 44

page 48

THE CULINARY CRACKER

WHIPPING IT UP IN YOUR KITCHEN

page 76

FLORIDA CHARM

TELLING TALES

AMELIA ISLAND’S FERNANDINA BEACH

GOLD TOES’ BRONC RIDE

page 56

page 80

70 76 4

CROSSWORD

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE FOR YOUR VEHICLE

FLORIDA EXCURSIONS

PICTURE PERFECT

THE WATERING HOLE

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Owner/Publisher Scarlett Redenius Owner/C.E.O. Brad Redenius President Thomas Fifield Vice President Sheila Fifield Editorial Director Jack Collier Design Director Brian Stromlund Director of Photography Marsay Johnson Proofreader Katherine Waters Contributing Writers Forrest Boone, Jack Collier, Christopher Decubellis, Ava Grace, Kym Rouse Holzwart, Dave Kelly, Katey McClenny, Paul Thurman, Ph.D. Featured Photographers Kathy Alldredge, Scott Barnett, Sarah Brett, Miranda Davis, Daron Dean, Morgan “Missy” Metzger DesMeules, Linda Fales, Amber D. Godwin, Missy Groover, Renata Keeling, Dave Kelly, Max Kelly, Tim Kern, April Lopez, Jordana McInturf, Daniel Meigs, Kristina Rodriquez, Renee Simmons, Kayden Strickland, Jessica Beth Tillis, Carlton Ward, Jr., Debora Whaley For more information about advertising with Florida Country Magazine, or joining our regional sales team, please contact:

239-692-2613 sales@floridacountrymagazine.com For other inquiries contact:

Scarlett Redenius, Publisher 239-600-4783 Published by: Florida Country Publications

PO Box 50989 • Fort Myers, FL 33994 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

facebook.com/floridacountrymagazine F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M Florida Country Magazine is published bi-monthly, copyright 2020, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by expressed written permission of the publisher. 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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WE WILL BE BACK STRONGER THAN EVER!

hese past months, COVID-19 has turned our daily routines, lives and businesses upside down—something I never thought I would see in my lifetime, or even think possible.

A war of a different kind. A war that is targeting us physically, mentally and economically. A war that, overnight, ensured we all lost something. Life as we knew it was changed, and possibly many things moving forward will be changed forever. I think I have felt every emotion. Loss, especially—no matter what the loss is, whether the loss of security, predictability or the fear of losing a loved one—can really wreak havoc with your emotional fitness. One thing that has helped me get through these past few months is my choice to surrender this to God. That’s because I cannot figure it out, and the more I try to, it just causes more pain. As with many of you, I have gone from being glued to my television set to thinking, “I better not see a TV on in this house.” News “terrorists”! I think it was in April in which stations were already bringing up the topic of hurricanes. Concerning this June/July 2020 issue of Florida Country Magazine, I decided it was extremely important to not break its style and content—to keep our normalcy. We can grab a newspaper, turn on the TV, read social media or turn on the radio and get all the COVID-19 stories that are out there. And yet, all the while, our ranchers

and farmers haven’t missed a beat keeping food on our tables. But like all of us, they were also impacted and had to find new ways to reach consumers after restaurants, resorts and schools closed. One of our advertisers, the Florida Farm Bureau Federation, gives a wealth of information on the state level (and on the national level) for our farming and ranching families, through its website: floridafarmbureau.org/covid-19resouces/. Another example is U.S. Sugar, “touching its neighbors with action”: Masks for health care workers, feeding an estimated 17,500 hot meals to families and donating to various organizations to put more food on tables. Also, partnering with Sugar Sand Distillery to distribute sugarcane-based hand sanitizer to its employees and the most vulnerable members of Glades County. Every one of our advertisers has impacted your life in one way or another during these recent months. They have been going out of their way to offer a safe, social-distancing experience, and still provide you with their same great products and superior customer service. Also, a big “thank you” goes out to our readers for your continued effort in participating in our state’s economy and supporting our advertisers and other businesses. Thank you for supporting restaurants, whether by ordering take-out or eating outside; for supporting local farmers and ranchers and—most of all—God bless our health care workers. In addition, I would like to say thank you to all for supporting Florida County Magazine and “inspiring us to saddle up and push forward.” One of my favorite quotes—“This too shall pass”—has never been said better than by another one of our advertisers: Florida Cracker Trading Company. The business said, “It’s important to remember there will be tailgates, bonfires and cookouts again. This COVID-19 pandemic will end, and we’ll be back stronger than ever!” SCARLETT REDENIUS, Publisher

A LITTLE COWBOY HUMOR Always drink upstream from the herd. If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop digging. You don’t need COVID-19 to meet a nurse- ride a bull. Don’t squat with your spurs on. Don’t dig for water under an outhouse. Never drive black cattle in the dark. 8

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FLORIDA 4-H

SUSTAINABLY RAISE CROPS AND LIVESTOCK HELPING YOUR FAMILY DURING HARD TIMES OR ‘JUST FOR FUN’ Written by: Christopher Decubellis

The nine children would get shoes once per year, and my grandmother made the girls’ dresses from flour sacks. This living situation was fairly common in Florida at the time.

Above, grandfather Peter Decubellis drives his oxen in circa-1930s New Port Richey. Seated at wagon back is Uncle Janvier. Far right, the writer's father rides Barney, his cow horse, in the 1940s. Near right shows the writer about 11 or 12, on his horse Betsey, in the 1980s.

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But in the Great Depression, my father and his family were blessed to be able to eat well, often much better than their counterparts in big cities. My father was older when I was born—age 51. He carried the lessons learned in his youth during the Great Depression, and he applied those principles throughout the remainder of his 80 years. This included teaching me (at an early age) how to care for poultry and livestock, grow vegetables, cultivate and graft citrus and other fruit trees, and to respect and utilize Florida’s ample natural resources. I thought that, while growing up in the 1970s and ’80s, this was all very cool information, and I was glad my father and uncles chose to share this information with me. I never

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF CHRISTOPHER DECUBELLIS

y father was born in 1923 in Pasco County, Florida, in my grandparents’ house, without air conditioning, electricity or running water. Most of what the family consumed was grown on the property, or from hogs and cattle that roamed the homestead on open range. Game and fish supplemented the table fare. My grandfather raised cattle, citrus, watermelons and other truck crops to make enough for the few items they purchased, such as coffee and flour. My grandmother would barter eggs for other items.

Left, when disking up a garden spot, pick a tree and head toward it to get your bearings on a straight line. Above, the writer's wife canned jalapeĂąo peppers from the family garden, making "cowboy candy" and jalapeĂąo jelly. Right, she dehydrated red kale from the garden.

thought, however, that I would be called upon to put these skills into action out of necessity. Then I experienced the COVID-19 pandemic. Just like in challenging earlier parts of the 20th century, people living in the countryside will find a way to survive. For instance, I have always enjoyed gardening, raising

livestock and poultry. When it became clear that some major disruptions would be occurring, I was very thankful to be in a situation of having the land and resources to go into action. Typically, one steer and two hogs will provide most of the protein needs for my family of four for about 13 months. I

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FLORIDA 4-H

A soil test indicated the writer's garden has correct pH but needs nitrogen and potassium fertilizer. He'll put half out before planting, and side-dress the rest during growing season, in two separate applications.

KEEP IN MIND THAT YOUR LOCAL UF/IFAS EXTENSION SERVICE HAS WONDERFUL INFORMATION ON GARDENING, KEEPING LIVESTOCK, AND SAFELY HANDLING AND PRESERVING FOOD. IN ADDITION, YOUNG PEOPLE CAN LEARN MUCH OF THIS IN A LOCAL 4-H CLUB. was very blessed that in late January, I’d just had my year’s meat supply processed at a local custom meat processor. I tripled the size of my vegetable garden area and my wife began preserving vegetables we still had lingering from our winter garden. Recently, my wife has dehydrated lots of kale, collards, various herbs and other vegetables. We have blanched and frozen other vegetables from the garden, such as broccoli. We’ve picked and frozen mulberries, and peaches are close to ripening as I write this article.

I know many of you have property and would like to learn more about how to sustainably utilize what you have at your disposal—to help care for your family during hard times or just for fun. Keep in mind that your local UF/IFAS Extension Service has wonderful information on gardening, keeping livestock, and safely handling and preserving food. In addition, young people can learn much of this in a local 4-H club. Be sure to reach out if I can be of help, by emailing me at cdecube@ufl.edu. FCM

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTOPHER DECUBELLIS

Our chickens are laying, and we have a turkey hen that just hatched out a nice clutch of poults. We have a small beef cattle herd and two Jersey cows. I am so thankful to have the resources available to help grow much of what my family will need—and some I can share with others—right here on my rural property.

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FLORIDA 4-H

PLENTY OF AGRICULTURAL JOBS FOR YOUTH NO DOWNTIME FOR SUCH ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES DURING LOCKDOWN Written by: Ava Grace

or those who don’t mind getting their hands dirty and boots muddy, there are plenty of jobs in the agricultural industry, even in this tough time of COVID-19 and high unemployment. “For one, farriers [specialists in equine hoof care] could use an extra hand,” says Clayton Wilber of St. Cloud, who owns and operates Florida Farrier Service Inc. with his wife, Teri. “Farmers and ranchers could use help with equine care, pasture management, dairy and poultry farming, meat processing, livestock nutrition, and genetics,” he adds. People of all ages who are skilled in everything from mechanics to grooming to welding will find a variety of available opportunities. Mechanics are necessary to keep equipment and machinery running, and maintenance and upkeep crews are needed to maintain pastures and fertilize fields. Groomers are needed to help with horses, and those with office skills will find that their technological expertise is in demand. Wilber got his start in the agricultural business at age 16. “I started apprenticing with a local farrier, Ray Phillips, and stayed in the business,” he explains. His wife was a teacher; as the family business grew, she switched to working fulltime in it. She maintains the office work and scheduling, among other tasks.

The farrier business, along with many other agricultural businesses, is considered an essential job. There was no downtime during Florida’s COVID-19 lockdown. “Farmers, ranchers and equine professionals cannot work from home,” Wilber notes. Horses need to have their hooves maintained, cows must be milked, chickens need their eggs gathered, cattle and pastures must be maintained, and machinery has to be in working order. “Agriculture is a huge part of our society—and it’s important to get youth involved,” adds Wilber. He and Teri have two boys who were both active in 4-H from an early age and participated in many agricultural activities. Young people interested in the farrier business can contact the American Farrier’s Association or the American Association of Professional Farriers. (The Wilbers are members of both.) “I recommend for anyone interested in the farrier profession to ride with a farrier—and get an idea of what the job entails,” Clayton Wilber states. “We have individuals contact us all the time for information on how to get started in the farrier industry,” adds Teri Wilber. She explains that most people who work in the agricultural industry welcome any questions about their professions and way of life.

PHOTOS OF FLORIDA FARRIER SERVICE INC., BY RENEE SIMMONS

Below left, farrier Clayton Wilber shapes a hot shoe. He and his wife, Teri, own and operate Florida Farrier Service Inc. of St. Cloud. Below right, he checks the fit of a shoe.

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"Farmers and ranchers could use help with equine care, pasture management, dairy and poultry farming, meat processing, livestock nutrition, and genetics," and many other jobs, explains farrier Clayton Wilber.

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FLORIDA 4-H There are several ways for young people “to get their boots in the door,” including apprenticeships and internships. Many technical schools offer mechanical and technology programs. Local 4-H and University of Florida Extension offices have a wealth of knowledge about different careers, as do Florida Farm Bureau offices. Also, most sectors of the agricultural industry have specialized associations. Examples include the Florida Cattlemen’s Association or the National Dairy Council. There are many equine associations based on breeds.

“Agriculture is important to every one of us and we are dependent on our youth for the industry to continue and flourish in the future,” Teri Wilber says. The Wilbers have worked with local 4-H programs. They’ve participated in “Flat Farmer,” in which an agricultural class sent the couple a “Flat Farmer” cut-out to take to work, to document parts of their job. And, of course, they have dedicated themselves “to keeping horses happy and healthy” for nearly 25 years. FCM

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Florida Farrier Service Inc. 407-891-6590, floridafarrierservice.com facebook.com/Floridafarrierservice Florida 4-H (Find local chapters) florida4h.org American Farrier’s Association 4059 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 1 Lexington, Kentucky 859-233-7411, americanfarriers.org American Association of Professional Farriers 1313 Washington St. Shelbyville, Kentucky 859-533-1465, professionalfarriers.com Florida Cattlemen’s Association 800 Shakerag Road Kissimmee, Florida 407-846-6221, floridacattlemen.org Florida Farm Bureau 352-378-8100 floridafarmbureau.org National Dairy Council usdairy.com/about-us/national-dairy-council University of Florida Extension P.O. Box 110810 Gainesville, Florida 352-392-1761, sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu

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THE AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE LEGENDARY ALL-AROUND BREED IS MOST POPULAR IN THE NATION

eveloped in the 1600s, the American Quarter Horse is one of the oldest horse breeds in the nation. Colonists on the eastern seaboard crossed imported English and Irish Thoroughbreds with horses of Spanish origin. Selective breeding resulted in compact, quick, hardy, heavily muscled horses that served as weekday work horses and weekend racehorses. Named because of their ability to outrun other breeds in races up to a quarter mile, these exceptional sprinters have been clocked as fast as 55 miles per hour. By the early 1800s, Thoroughbreds, who exceled at running longer distances, began to become more popular as racehorses. However, the American Quarter Horse was the perfect stock horse for the developing western frontier. With their hardiness, willingness, agility, quickness and versatility, they played a critical role in the westward expansion of early settlers, and offered reliable transportation.

TODAY, AT RODEOS AND WESTERN SHOWS across the country, the American Quarter Horses is the breed of choice in events that require speed and the ability to handle cattle, including cutting, calf roping, team penning and barrel racing, as well as reining.

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Colonial Quarter Horses were crossed with horses in the Southwest, including horses brought by the Spanish, feral Mustangs, and horses domesticated by Native Americans. Because of their friendly disposition and natural instinct working with cattle, American Quarter Horses became the preferred mount of cowboys on the western open range and of cattlemen on ranches. In the American West, the main duty of the American Quarter Horse was and continues to be working cattle. They remained irreplaceable even after the advent of motorized vehicles. Many of the major cattle ranches in Texasâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;including King Ranch, Four Sixes Ranch and Waggoner Ranchâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;played a significant role in modern American Quarter Horse development.

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION

Written by: Kym Rouse Holzwart

Above, American Quarter Horses are the breed of choice in rodeo events that require speed and the ability to handle cattle. Below, the breed comes in a variety of solid colors.

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Above, the American Quarter Horse is named for its ability to outrun other breeds in races up to a quarter mile. Below right, it is the preferred breed for working cattle in Florida, and below left, also in the American West.

The breed is the most popular in the U.S. In addition to racing, ranching and rodeoing, American Quarter Horses are well suited for driving, show jumping, dressage, hunting and trail riding. With their calm, friendly temperament, they are preferred mounted police unit and all-around family horses. American Quarter Horses have short, wide heads and powerful hindquarters. Height typically ranges between 14

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and 16 hands; weight varies from 950 to 1,200 pounds. Stock types are short, stocky and well-muscled, while racing and hunter types are tall and smooth muscled. The breed comes in a variety of solid colorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;most commonly sorrel, a brownish-red. Other recognized colors include brown, black, bay, palomino, buckskin, gray, grullo, dun, red dun, bay roan, blue roan, red roan, white, cremello and perlino. They typically have limited white markings on the face and below the knees. Spotted patterns are accepted, as long as both parents are registered with the American Quarter Horse Association, or AQHA. The AQHA registry was established in 1940 by a group of horsemen and ranchers dedicated to preserving their ranch horse pedigrees. Wimpy, a descendant of the King Ranch foundation sire, Old Sorrel, was honored with registration

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION

Skills required by cowboys and their talented horses became the foundation of the rodeo, which began as informal competitions. Today, at rodeos and western shows across the country, the American Quarter Horses is the breed of choice in events that require speed and the ability to handle cattle, including cutting, calf roping, team penning and barrel racing, as well as reining.

The breed is as well suited for trail riding as it is for such English equestrian disciplines as show jumping.

No. 1 in the stud book, by virtue of winning the stallion class at the 1941 Fort Worth Southwestern Exposition and Fat Stock Show in Texas. Foundation sires also include a number of Thoroughbred stallions.

an Appendix registry; foals that are registered as Appendix American Quarter Horses have one registered American Quarter Horse parent and one Thoroughbred parent registered with the Jockey Club.

A registered American Quarter Horse is the product of a registered American Quarter Horse mare and a registered American Quarter Horse stallion. The AQHA also offers

By meeting certain criteria, an Appendix American Quarter Horse can earn its way into the permanent studbook, making its offspring eligible for AQHA registration.

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Above, an American Quarter Horse displays its prowess in a rodeo. Below, the breed is known for being friendly and calm.

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This creates continual gene flow from the Thoroughbred breed into the American Quarter Horse breed, which has changed many of its original characteristics. Because some favor the earlier style of American Quarter Horse, separate organizations have been created to promote and register “Foundation” American Quarter Horses. The AQHA is the world’s largest breed registry, with nearly 6 million registered American Quarter Horses across the globe. Its headquarters is in Amarillo, Texas. Also located in Amarillo is the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum, maintained by the American Quarter Horse Foundation. The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum celebrates and preserves the breed’s history. And it showcases the people and horses who have earned the distinction of being inducted into the hall of fame. Not surprisingly, Texas has the largest American Quarter Horse population. Florida is home to the 14th-largest population. The Florida Quarter Horse Association was formed in 1945 and annually holds and sanctions numerous AQHArecognized American Quarter Horse shows around the Sunshine State.

PHOTOS ON OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION

There is a large number of notable American Quarter Horse breeders throughout Florida: They include Wellborn Quarter Horses in Wellborn, McDuffee Quarter Horses in Ocala, Sandra Vaughn Quarter Horses in Hernando, Barthle Brothers Ranch in Dade City, and Triple J Ranch in Sarasota—just to name a few. In addition to performing in the show ring and being used for trail riding, American Quarter Horses work cows on Florida’s many large cattle ranches, and participate in rodeos around the state. Hialeah Park is the sole track in Florida offering Quarter Horse racing. FCM

ROUNDUP American Quarter Horse Association 806-376-4811, aqha.com Florida Quarter Horse Association 941-321-3247, fqha.net

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HORSIN' AROUND

EQUINE LOVERS FIND FRIENDSHIP AND FUN THE CALOOSA SADDLE CLUB OFFERS LECTURES, TRAIL RIDES, CAMPOUTS—AND MORE

orse lovers of all ages—and riding disciplines—participate in the Caloosa Saddle Club’s monthly educational meetings, and its members often head out on trails, parks and preserves across the Florida counties of Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Sarasota. They also go camping, and take part in festivals and fundraisers, all the while enjoying the company of other horse enthusiasts. And, of course, that doesn’t account for what the horses get out of it: They get to check out new trails, mix with other horses and have a change from their normal routines for some extra fun.

“The Caloosa Saddle Club has been a longstanding club in the Fort Myers area for many years,” explains Sue Coffman. She’s the group’s vice president and has been riding with the club for three years. Missy Musselman is the club’s president. Coffman adds, “Our club is what we consider a ‘warm, friendly fun club’ and we always welcome new ideas and suggestions.” Those who love horses, ponies, mules, donkeys, burros—all creatures equine—enjoy the company and camaraderie offered by the group. It currently numbers more than 60 members, and it has continued to grow during the past few years.

The club welcomes members of all ages, who have many different kinds of "fourlegged babies."

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF CALOOSA SADDLE CLUB

Written by: Ava Grace

MEMBERS JOIN FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS, such as meeting new people, learning new tips, getting out of town for a night or two, and gaining more understanding about what goes into keeping their animals safe, healthy and happy.

Members ride on picturesque trails in a variety of locations. Campouts are a big hit with members and their horses. All involved love taking part in fun-filled escapes. F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

HORSIN' AROUND

The club meets monthly from September through May, and members enjoy regular rides.

“We encourage each other and enjoy witnessing our members succeed, grow and refine,” notes Coffman. She explains that the club’s members learn from one another—and members always have a “bucket full of tips and how-to’s” to suggest to one another. “If you have a love for horses and want to meet others that have the same, come to one of our meetings and check us out,” Coffman says. She adds that other Caloosa Saddle Club members “love to meet potential new members,” and there are always membership forms available at the club’s meetings. The Caloosa Saddle Club’s meetings take place during the “cooler months” of September through May. Members meet at Bayshore Fire Department Station 131 at 17350 Nalle Road in North Fort Myers on the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. All ages are welcome—and men, women and children are members. Fees are $30 for a single membership and $40 for a family membership. Rides and upcoming events are posted on the Caloosa Saddle Club’s Facebook page: facebook.com/groups/caloosasaddleclub. FCM

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF CALOOSA SADDLE CLUB

The Caloosa Saddle Club members respect one another and honor the fact that they have all kinds of “four-legged babies.” Members join for a variety of reasons, such as meeting new people, learning new tips, getting out of town for a night or two, and gaining more understanding about what goes into keeping their animals safe, healthy and happy.

ROUNDUP JOIN THE CALOOSA SADDLE CLUB! •Listen to educational speakers at the club’s monthly meetings •Take part in trail rides at beautiful horse-friendly parks and preserves throughout the counties of Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Sarasota •Enjoy several campouts each year—with other riders and horses from around the Sunshine State •Engage in community involvement and fundraisers •Join in parades and horse festivals •Relish the camaraderie of other horse enthusiasts

FFLO LOR RIID DAACCO OU UNTRYM NTRYMAAG GAAZZIIN NEE..CCO OM M

HORSIN' AROUND

ALL EYES AND EARS ON HORSE THIEVES STEAL A PERSON'S HORSE? YOU'RE GOING TO JAIL!

Written by: Ava Grace

atch out, horse thieves! There’s a growing group of horse owners, horse lovers, pet lovers, country lovers and “law lovers” who are watching, listening, tuning in and reporting any and all suspicious behavior that pertains to their property, and their neighbors’ property and communities’ property. The Florida Horse Watch Group meets on Facebook—and chats, shares information, uploads images and makes reports on its pages. However, group members aren’t the only ones who are reading what’s being recorded. The Florida Agricultural Crimes Investigation Unit is also keeping an eye on the issue and has jumped in to help out further. The Florida Horse Watch Group was founded in 2019 by Scott Baxter, of North Miami, who also founded the South Florida Marina and Boat Watch. The boat watch group has been extremely successful. “Due to the success of the boat watch group, a friend of mine asked if I could help out with horse thefts,” explains Baxter. He’s now become far too familiar with far too many

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REPRODUCED SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS COURTESY OF FLORIDA HORSE WATCH GROUP'S FACEBOOK PAGE

Horse theft is considered a property crime and is grand theft. You can help by contacting law enforcement and reporting your findings to Florida Horse Watch Group's Facebook page.

THE STEALING OF HORSES and slaughtering for human consumption is not only wrong morally, ethically and legally— it’s also unsafe. Many substances that are used to treat horses are banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, making horse meat unsuitable for human consumption.

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HORSIN' AROUND

ROUNDUP Florida Horse Watch Group—Join the discussion: facebook.com/groups/2410601905935160/ Florida Horse Watch Group—Sheriffs; local, state, federal representatives; State Attorneys: facebook.com/groups/996173967404923/about/ Florida State Attorneys myfpaa.org/florida-state-attorneys/ H.R.961—Safeguard American Food Exports Act of 2019 congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/961 Florida’s congressional members congress.gov/members Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Agricultural-Law-Enforcement

people who have gone through the trauma of having their horses stolen. And many of the horses are never recovered. The group’s intention is to connect horse owners and other concerned parties. That way, they can share information, offer support, report suspicious behavior and theft, raise awareness and push for investigations and prosecutions of horse theft and slaughter at the highest level. Horse theft is considered a property crime and is grand theft. And the slaughtering of a horse is animal cruelty. Unfortunately, horses are stolen often, and sometimes they wind up a long way from home. According to the U.S. Humane Society, “Each year, more than 100,000 horses are shipped across the U.S. border to Canada or Mexico for slaughter at abattoirs that supply the European market.” Horse meat is considered a delicacy in some parts of the world.

The stealing of horses and slaughtering for human consumption is not only wrong morally, ethically and legally—it’s also unsafe. Many substances that are used to treat horses are banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, making horse meat unsuitable for human consumption. The Safeguard American Food Exports (SAFE) Act, known as the House Resolution 961 bill, was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in January of 2019. The bill deems horse meat unsafe to eat and is a big step forward. Of course—a bigger step can be made by stopping horse theft in the first place. So, what can you do? Keep your eyes and ears open for any suspicious behavior and immediately document and report it to the Florida Agricultural Law Enforcement: Call 855-FLASAFE (855-352-7233). Encourage Florida State Attorneys to prosecute to the full extent of the law. Also, report your findings to Florida Horse Watch Group’s Facebook page—to keep even more eyes on the issue. To keep your property safe, consider motion detector lights, make your horses difficult to access, lock pasture gates and don’t leave halters on pastured horses. In addition, consider varying your routine so horse thieves don’t know when you might be home. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a long list of things you can do to minimize horse theft and equipment. Check out: horses. extension.org/15-steps-to-minimizing-theft-of-horses-and-equipment. And contact your congressional representative to make sure that the Safeguard American Food Exports (SAFE) Act, known as the House Resolution 961 bill, keeps moving forward. Adds Scott Baxter: “Our main goal to is put a final end to horse theft.” FCM

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

LAND

FOR

E H ACR 35 RANC E ORS

SALE

$2,900,000 CHARLOTTE COUNTY 30 ACRES AT CORNER OF I-75 & HWY 17 PENDING $2,750,000 FORT MYERS 4 ACRES AT COLONIAL BLVD $1,950,000 FORT MYERS 13 ACRES AT I-75 AT BAYSHORE RD SOLD $1,900,000 FORT LAUDERDALE 2 ACRES @ HWY 7 (441) $1,525,000 FORT MYERS 2.5 ACRES @ N. 41 @ SUPER WALMART $1,500,000 ALVA 55 ACRES ON PALM BEACH BLVD @ COUNTY LINE $1,400,000 FORT MYERS 35 ACRES 7150 BAYSHORE RD $1,325,000 FORT MYERS 5 ACRES AT N.41 & JUDD RD BY SUPER WALMART $995,000 LEHIGH ACRES 45 Acres 9711 Buckingham Rd $990,000 LABELLE 35 ACRES PALM BEACH BLVD (HWY 80) $899,000 FORT MYERS 35 ACRES EQUESTRIAN FACILITY & HOME $890,000 FORT MYERS 2.5 ACRES I-75 AT BAYSHORE RD (78) SOLD $800,000 FORT MYERS 2.3 ACRES METRO PKWY $598,000 FORT MYERS 20 ACRES PALM BEACH BLVD (HWY 80) $595,000 FORT MYERS 35 ACRES NFM RICH RD @ SLATER PENDING $595,000 FORT MYERS 1.3 ACRES CPD I-75 @ BAYSHORE RD $562,000 FORT MYERS 25 Acres 15180 Broken J Ranch Road $495,000 FORT MYERS 1.25 ACRES C1-A I-75 @ BAYSHORE RD $279,000 FORT MYERS 10 ACRES NFM RICH RD @ SLATER $139,000 FORT MYERS 5 ACRES NFM RICH RD @ SLATER SOLD $100,000 FORT MYERS 3 ACRES AT 19200 SLATER RD

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 $890,000

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

A COWBOY’S LIFE FOR ME

STORIES OF WILD FLORIDA, HIDDEN TREASURE AND GOOD CATTLE

Written by: Katey McClenny

Blackbeard's Ranch has been recognized several times for its environmental stewardship.

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY MAX KELLY

ccording to a legend or two, several hundred years ago, one of history’s most notorious pirates—Edward Teach, known as Blackbeard—may have possibly beached his ship in Charlotte Harbor, just south of Sarasota, Florida. Folklore has it that Blackbeard just might have ventured onto the land in a quest to bury his loot amid the raw landscape of palmetto bushes, cypress swamps and native grasses of “Old Florida.”

The Myakka-based ranch encompasses a pristine 4,500 acres.

Today, that same area of land still exists much the same as it probably looked to Blackbeard, or at least how it looked to the many other pirates who definitely were in the area during Blackbeard’s era. And it’s all thanks to Blackbeard’s Ranch. A pristine 4,500 acres—“seeking to preserve wild Florida the way we love it”—Blackbeard’s Ranch is strategically located in Myakka, protecting the headwaters of both the

Myakka River and the Charlotte Harbor Estuary. Owned by Galinski Enterprises, the ranch raises cattle, Mangalitsa pork, and honey. Blackbeard’s Ranch has been recognized several times for its environmental stewardship. “I love the diversity of being a rancher,” explains managing partner Jim Strickland. “There is no favorite part, whether it is selling good calves, seeing new calves born, watching the wildlife interact with the cattle, [or] a

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PHOTOS BY MAX KELLY

Above, the ranch's Miakka Mangalitsa pork can be found on the menu at the Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island. From left are the restaurant's Cherry Glazed Mangalitsa Pork Belly, Mangalitsa Pork Osso Bucco and Mangalitsa Pork Sirloin. Below, beef from the ranch is sold as a Fresh From Florida product.

TOP PHOTO BY MAX KELLY; MIDDLE AND BOTTOM PHOTO BY CARLTON WARD JR/FLORIDA WILD

good horse or a great group of men and women to work with. It all adds up to enjoyment,” Strickland continues fondly. He is a past president of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, and the Strickland family has been ranching in the Sunshine State since the Civil War. Jim Strickland greatly enjoys his role at Blackbeard’s Ranch. Beef from the ranch is sold as a Fresh From Florida product. Blackbeard Ranch’s USDA prime steaks can be found on the menu at the Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island, and also on the menu at The Founders Market + Bistro in Naples. And the ranch has also begun to sell its beef online— directly to consumers. As mentioned above, in addition to raising cattle, Blackbeard’s Ranch also raises Miakka Mangalitsa pork. The Mangalitsa breed is unique, because of its high marbling and Omega-3 fatty acids. These pigs have an average of 65% to 70% fat content, compared to the traditional 50% fat content of most commercial breeds. The product is also on the menu at the Beach Bistro. And the ranch has plans to expand its sales of the pork.

I LOVE THE DIVERSITY of being a rancher. There’s no favorite part, whether it’s selling good calves, seeing new calves born, watching the wildlife interact with the cattle, a good horse or a great group of men and women to work with. It all adds up to enjoyment." —MANAGING PARTNER JIM STRICKLAND

One-third of the ranch is protected under conservation easement, ensuring that it will never see cranes, concrete or condominiums. F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

The ranch has begun to sell its USDA prime steaks online.

And if it wasn’t busy enough, Blackbeard’s Ranch also has its own brand of honey, known as Miakka Prairie Honey. The ranch’s honey bees spend their whole lives on the ranch, pollinating the native plant species and creating a pure Florida honey untouched by pesticides, herbicides or chemicals. The honey is used at Ulele, a well-known restaurant in Tampa. And it will soon be available to be purchased online. In February of 2020, Blackbeard’s Ranch was the recipient of the 2019 National Environmental Stewardship Award at the 2020 Cattle Industry Convention and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trade Show in San Antonio. The ranch has also been honored as the Audubon Society Sustainable Ranch of the Year, and received the Florida Ag Environmental Leadership Award. These honors are in large part because of Jim Strickland’s immense dedication to conservation and protecting Florida’s most vital asset—water. Strickland helped found the Florida Conservation Group, which is made up of scientists and ranchers working together to advocate for the conservation of Florida’s ranchlands.

One-third of Blackbeard’s Ranch is protected under conservation easement, ensuring that it will never see cranes, concrete or condominiums. Protection from development is another way Florida ranchers can ensure the protection of today’s resources for future generations. Thus, those future generations will also be able to continue seeing the natural beauty of Florida—and search for buried treasure. FCM

ROUNDUP blackbeardsranch.com facebook.com/Blackbeards-Ranch instagram.com/black_beards_ranch floridaconserve.org

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY MAX KELLY

“We continually look at new research, new studies and new data to prove what the cattle industry is worth,” Strickland notes. “I think that as research technology and science interacts with ranching practices, we need to select those best management practices which best protect the water, wildlife and green space of Florida.”

In addition to its beef and pork, Blackbeard's Ranch also has its own brand of honey, known as Miakka Prairie Honey. The ranch's honey bees spend their whole lives on the ranch.

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t was the late 1800s, and Florida was on the brink of its first true economic boom. Resort areas were being developed throughout the state, and wealthy folks from the North were beginning to winter in the quickly growing and desirable cities of the South. Railroads were being built with lightning speed to facilitate this travel.

No two men expedited that growth and built their wealth on it more than Henry Plant and Henry Flagler. And while Flagler worked diligently to fill the need on Florida’s east coast from Jacksonville to Key West, it was the Plant System of railway, steamer and steamship lines that connected central and west Florida to those seeking the Sunshine State’s mild winters, sandy beaches and crystal-clear springs.

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Plant knew that “Florida was the future,” so he built destination hotels strategically throughout central and southwestern parts of the state. Some hotels he purchased and renovated; others were built lavishly from the ground up. His Plant System serviced them all—from Ocala and Sanford in the north to Punta Gorda and Fort Myers in the south—giving rise to a winter experience for the wealthy that was unrivaled in the nation. Tucked away in the western coastal town of Bellaire, in Pinellas County, lies a property that was once the jewel of Plant’s Florida empire—the iconic Belleview Inn. Originally opened as the Hotel Belleview in 1897 and known as the “White Queen on the Gulf,” The Belleview is situated along a coastal bluff line overlooking what was then called Clear Water Harbor.

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF DIAMOND PR

CIRCA-1897 DESTINATION HOTEL NOW RENOVATED FOR 21ST CENTURY

MAP COURTESY OF BELLEVIEW INN HISTORIAN, JOEY VARS

Written by: Dave Kelly

Above, the newly renovated Belleview Inn glows magnificently. Map at right, from the late 1800s, shows Henry Plant's vast railway and steamer system. Photo is of the Hotel Belleview at the turn of the last century.

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THE HOTEL BELLEVIEW WAS A VACATION HAVEN FOR ROYALTY, ATHLETES, CELEBRITIES AND PRESIDENTS. BABE RUTH, JOE DIMAGGIO AND THOMAS EDISON WERE REGULAR GUESTS, AS WAS EVERY SITTING PRESIDENT OF THE 20TH CENTURY. Situated 35 feet above sea level, it was the highest coastal elevation in the state, affording breathtaking western views. The 145-room Hotel Belleview was built in the Queen Anne architectural style, introducing a unique lodging concept to the shoreline of Florida. By 1924, it had been built out to almost 500 rooms and more than 820,000 square feet, making it one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Hotel Belleview was a vacation haven for royalty, athletes, celebrities and presidents. Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio and Thomas Edison were regular guests, as was every sitting president of the 20th century. Plant spared no expense while

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building his gemâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;even running his railroad line to within a few feet of the expansive front porch terrace. The hotel featured steam-generated electricity, with a thenunheard-of three light bulbs in each room. He tapped his friend Louis Tiffany to create and install 96 of his worldfamous Tiffany leaded-glass panels in the ballroom. It also included a six-hole golf course (oldest holes in the state today), which was added to at the turn of the century by the most famous course builder in history, Donald Ross. The two natural springs on the property, Clear Water Spring and Bathtub Spring, were enclosed by wooden bath houses

BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BELLEVIEW INN HISTORIAN, JOEY VARS; ALL OTHER PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF DIAMOND PR

Above, pieces of pre-Columbian heart-of-pine lumber used to build the Hotel Belleview are visible in the wall cut-out on the fourth floor, with blueprints from its construction. Below, baseball superstar Babe Ruth playing golf at the hotel.

The Belleview Inn's lobby, above, features artwork by famed local artist Christopher Still. Below is Mort's Reading Room, showcasing the hotel's century-plus history.

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and were popular for their “therapeutic powers.” Sadly, after decades of neglect, two world wars and subtle changes in the landscape, the hotel fell into disrepair and closed in 2009. Enter JMC Communities, which purchased the hotel property in 2015, intent on preserving the central core of the original hotel. Renovations were completed in just a few years. In 2018, it reopened as The Belleview Inn, with the original lobby, 35 luxury rooms—and pride in the renovation’s attention to remarkable detail. In fact, the hotel’s century-plus history is showcased in Mort’s Reading Room, an eclectic area filled with displays, artwork and information about the hotel’s legacy. Upon arrival at The Belleview, the main lobby greets guests with its pine-plank flooring, its original grand staircase, a communal fireplace and elegant artwork by famed local artist Christopher Still. The Grand Lawn— more than 5,000 square feet of beautiful space situated between the porch and pool—conjures up visions of turn-of-the-century outdoor activity. The Belleview’s rooms and suites harken back to Victorian design and are constructed to show off the hotel’s classic Gilded Age architecture. Much is original, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in any way. Rooms have upscale amenities one expects from a firstclass hotel, including spectacular views of the pool and local community. Add in original high-end features such as 10-foot-wide hallways, oversized windows, quarter-sawn wood floors and 5-foot eaves, and it’s easy to see why The Belleview showcases the best of the era in which it was built.

In addition to on-site features such as Maisie’s Marketplace and a fully equipped fitness center, The Belleview’s guests have access to amenities at adjacent Belleair Country Club. Privileges include access to play historic Belleview Biltmore Golf Club, the 36-hole course built by Ross. The club has five dining and lounge areas, including the cozy 1897 Lounge, with a private, full-service restaurant and bar open daily for breakfast and lunch. Guests are also welcome to visit, eat and play at The Belleview Inn’s sister property on Clearwater Beach, Sandpearl Resort. With access to its extensive private beach and the elegant Caretta on the Gulf restaurant, Sandpearl is worth the short drive from The Belleview Inn. The legend of this remarkable hotel now lives on at The Belleview Inn. Visit it soon and find out why. FCM

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MAP COURTESY OF BELLEVIEW INN HISTORIAN, JOEY VARS

Guests find classic touches from the original Hotel Belleview at every turn: The pre-Columbian heart-of-pine lumber used to build the first structure is visible in the wall cut-out on the fourth floor, along with blueprints from its construction. Doors to each room are the original Victorian ones installed in 1897. Hidden stairways and dumbwaiters abound.

TOP PHOTO BY KRISTINA RODRIGUEZ; BOTTOM PHOTO COURESTY OF DIAMOND PR

Opposite page is another map of the vast Plant System. Above, The Belleview Inn's traditional terrace welcomes guests with "Old Florida" flair. Below, the Donald Ross Suite pays homage to the world-famous golf course designer.

TUCKED AWAY IN THE WESTERN COASTAL TOWN OF BELLAIRE, IN PINELLAS COUNTY, LIES A PROPERTY THAT WAS ONCE THE JEWEL OF HENRY PLANT’S FLORIDA EMPIRE— THE ICONIC BELLEVIEW INN. ORIGINALLY OPENED AS THE HOTEL BELLEVIEW IN 1897, IT WAS KNOWN AS THE “WHITE QUEEN ON THE GULF.”

ROUNDUP The Belleview Inn 25 Belleview Blvd., Belleair, Florida 877-905-4496 or 727-441-1774 thebelleviewinn.com

LOR RIID DAACCO OU UNTRYM NTRYMAAG GAAZZIIN NEE..CCO OM M FFLO

FLORIDA EXCURSIONS

CAMP MACK PERFECT FOR ANGLERS, FAMILIES, ‘KODAK MOMENTS’ LODGE, MARINA & RV RESORT ON THE KISSIMMEE CHAIN OF LAKES

erhaps you’re a serious angler hoping to win a bass tournament, or maybe a family searching for an outdoorsy vacation, or possibly a couple looking for a weekend adventure filled with hiking and “Kodak moments.” If so, the place that fulfills every one of those wishes is Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort. Camp Mack offers so much for so many because—as the adage goes—“Location, location, location.” It’s in Lake Wales, Florida, on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, with access to 21,000 acres of world-class bass fishing grounds. Lake Kissimmee is one of the top bass fishing lakes in the Sunshine State, known for largemouth bass. And the camp borders Lake Kissimmee State Park, which has more than 13 miles of hiking trails and is on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. “Summer is a great time

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to be on the lake, whether it is fishing, boating or nature touring,” notes Kevin DeNell, executive vice president and chief branding officer of Guy Harvey Outpost. Camp Mack is part of Guy Harvey Outpost, “a collection of water-centric hospitality properties and travel products,” according to guyharveyoutpost.com. Internationally renowned Guy Harvey is, of course, “the man behind it—a unique blend of artist, scientist, diver, angler, conservationist and explorer.” The camp hosts several fishing tournaments in June and July; the schedule is posted online. “Keep in mind that fish bite early during the summer months,” DeNell says. Charters with Capt. Scott Taylor can be booked at the camp’s Outfitter Shop or online in summer. From October through May, guests can enjoy “Cow Camp,” in which they can “travel back in time

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF GUY HARVEY OUTPOST

Written by: Ava Grace

Opposite page, Lake Wales-based Camp Mack has been in the same location for more than a century. Fishing, inset, is one of the camp's many activities. Others include, clockwise from top left, biking, air boat tours and canoeing. Guests stay in cabins, the lodge or their own RV.

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FLORIDA EXCURSIONS

to 1876 with a Florida cow hunter in a frontier camp along the route of a cattle drive.” DeNell adds, “For non-anglers, a great way to enjoy the lake is with Alligator Cove Air Boat Tours, who also offer daily tours out of Camp Mack during the summer.” Participants see “real Florida” and its wildlife “in an intimate setting, as each of the tours are operated from a six-pack airboat.” The camp also hosts RV groups with rallies.

Top, an RV parks in an idyllic spot near a gazebo. Above, Capt. Scott Taylor offers fishing charters.

Visitors who love music are in for a treat because Camp Mack’s Riverfront Concert Series continues throughout the

ROUNDUP Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort 14900 Camp Mack Road Lake Wales, Florida 800-243-8013, guyharveycampmack.com

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summer. “Our Riverfront Concert Series is a monthly event with free live music, and food trucks, at the Camp Mack Riverfront Stage,” explains DeNell. The Red Hot Roosters play on the Fourth of July from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. “Camp Mack’s history is what makes it a special place,” DeNell says. It’s been in the same location for more than 100 years, starting as a fish camp and general store. When the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes had steamboats transiting up and down the waterways, Camp Mack was a landing spot from 1880 to 1920. The old general store exists today as the Outfitter Shop, where visitors can shop and book such adventures as boat rentals, kayak rentals, fishing and airboat charters. Guests stay in cabins, the recently renovated lodge or in their own RVs. FCM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GUY HARVEY OUTPOST

This year, the Chili Cook-Off & Corn Hole Competition takes place Saturday, June 20. Adult and youth teams will compete in an International Chili Society-sanctioned event in Traditional Red, Homestyle or Verde categories. The fun-filled family weekend also offers a craft show, live music and more.

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PICTURE PERFECT

Photo by: Renata Keeling

LUKE AND HIS FIRST JAKE

“I

n April, 7-year-old Luke Keeling went out with his dad, Jason, in hopes of bagging his very first turkey,” reports Renata Keeling of Madison County’s Pinetta, Florida. “This was Luke’s third attempt. He was getting anxious as his brother, Lane, had already bagged one for the year. I really didn’t think they’d have much luck this day—but a couple hours later I received a call from a very excited little boy on the way home with his first jake! We quickly had an impromptu photo shoot [with a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV] in the front yard before cleaning the bird.” For info on Renata Keeling's photos, visit facebook.com/ memory.lane.77

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THE BEAUTY THAT I SEE

Nikon D3300 with 300 mm lens was employed by April Lopez of Marianna, Florida, in Jackson County, to take this image in her front yard. Lopez relates, “A male eastern tiger swallowtail is enjoying the pollen of pink lantana. Photography has been a passion of mine for years. And for the past six years, I have focused on wildlife and nature. The pure beauty of nature is amazing. If I can capture that beauty and share it with others, just maybe they, too, will see the same beauty that I see.” Find her artwork at facebook.com/april.lopez68/.

Photo by: April Lopez

SPIRIT OF ‘OLD FLORIDA’

mber Godwin’s eponymous photography company is based in Baker County’s Sanderson, Florida. That’s where she shot this image with a Nikon D5600 and 35 mm lens. Godwin notes, “I took this photo of my son doing something he loves! I felt this photo captures the spirit of ‘old Florida.’ He was using an old cane pole. I love photography and capturing moments that will last forever.” To see more of her work, go to facebook. com/amberdgodwinphotography/.

Photo by: Amber D. Godwin

“I Photo by: Missy Groover

RENEWED PASSION

was out in the cow pasture in Myakka, Florida, and saw that tree with the sun setting behind it,” says Missy Groover of Parrish, Florida, also in Manatee County. “It looked just breathtaking and I knew I had to capture it. I used to love photography and then had kids and got busy. But now the kids are almost grown so ‘the hubby’ bought me a new camera this year [after taking this image with an iPhone 8]—because I was taking so many pics with my phone. Because of that tree, I found my passion again!”

CAPTURING ‘WOW MOMENTS’

Canon EOS Rebel T5 was used by Kaydan Strickland of North Fort Myers, Florida, to take this image at the 2020 Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo in that DeSoto County city. Strickland says, “This photo is of a saddle bronc rider who had an amazing bronc that made some high jumps. Photography gives me the opportunity to capture those ‘wow moments.’ Being a rodeo photographer has given me the chance to do that. I love being able to show competitors their events through pictures. It even gives me the opportunity to showcase how I can edit and credit a really nice picture.” Photo by: Kaydan Strickland F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

PICTURE PERFECT

GALLOPING GATOR!

honotosassa, Florida, resident Morgan “Missy” Metzger DesMeules had her LG Android phone handy when she shot this photo at her Hillsborough County farm. She explains, “I came around the corner from our driveway and something large came out of some tall grass and I almost hit it. Then I saw what it was. OMG—an alligator! The horses were running around snorting and the bay horse was trying to stomp it. At this point, I was out of the car. What do I do? Grabbed my phone and took some pics! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime photo and ‘this Florida Cracker’ feels fortunate and kinda blessed to have been in the right place at the right time. Scary as it was!”

Photo by: Morgan “Missy” Metzger DesMeules

Photo by: Jordanna McInturf

WONDERFUL ‘WHISPER’

&M Miniature Farm of North Fort Myers, Florida, is owned by Jordanna McInturf, who took this pic with an iPhone 11 Pro. She states, “We breed high-quality registered miniature donkeys and ‘Whisper’ is a 16-month-old spotted jenny. Her favorite things consist of eating a lot of hay, scratches on the back and, of course, lots of cuddles! There’s something truly special about miniature donkeys. Photography has opened up a way to capture the depth and feeling of a moment. I love how her sweet and gentle disposition shines brightly in this photo. When she’s 3, she’ll be added to our breeding program and will certainly be an amazing mommy. We can’t wait to see what her future brings.” Follow Whisper’s journey at facebook.com/JMMiniFarm.

arah Brett of Melbourne, Florida, took this photo with her Nikon at the 6,500-acre St. Johns Water Management Area’s Farm 13/Stick Marsh in Indian River County. Brett says, “My cousin Nicole and I were driving around the marsh before a quick fishing session, and I got to capture this bird enjoying his lunch. The fact that I get the chance to show everyone the Florida wildlife and land that I grew up to love and respect is amazing! I look forward to capturing many more photos as the years go by—and sharing them with you all!”

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ENJOYING HIS LUNCH Photo by: Sarah Brett

Photo by: Jessica Beth Tillis

MARKING OFF BUCKET LIST

roprietor of Plant City, Florida-based Southern Reflection Photography, Jessica Beth Tillis took along her Canon EOS Rebel T6 while visiting Duck Key. Tillis explains, “After beginning my photography journey, I made a bucket list of everything I’d like to capture images of. Thanks go to Jim Barnes and Becky Barnes for allowing me to come along to Duck Key. I was able to capture this image—marking photographs of a Florida Keys’ iguana off my bucket list!” To see more of her work, check out facebook.com/ southernreflectionphotographybyjessicatillis/.

THAT MOMENT IN TIME

Canon EOS 80D was used by Kathy Alldredge to shoot this image. The proprietor of Kathy Marie Photography of Lake Alfred, Florida, she explains, “It was taken on the family’s ranch in Lake Wales, Florida. This session was to celebrate Chloe turning ‘Sweet 16.’ We traveled the ranch with Chloe, her mom and dad, and ‘Buttons’ followed everywhere we went. Photography to me is all about making memories that last forever. The type of photos that in years down the road—when you see them again—you’re taken back to that moment in time spent together.” Find out more at facebook. com/KathyMarieCompanies/.

Photo by: Kathy Alldredge

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PICTURE PERFECT

‘AGRICULTURE AT EVERY ANGLE’

rianna Jewer of Orlando, Florida, submitted this photo, taken with a Nikon D810 by Tim Kern of his Englewood, Florida-based TK Photography. He shot it on 5 Mile Road in Lake County’s Clermont, Florida. Jewer notes, “As a seven-year FFA member, being photographed in my corduroy blue means everything to me. When this picture was taken, ‘I see agriculture at every angle.’ It captures my roots, and the love I have for the ag industry. As a graduating high school senior, while I say goodbye to my FFA years, I look forward to supporting and working with the future of agriculture.” Visit tkphotoshop.com or facebook.com/tkphotography.timkern/.

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Photo by: Tim Kern of TK Photography

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PICTURE PERFECT

Photo by: Debora Whaley

PINT-SIZE PATRIOT

n iPhone XR was used by Debora Whaley of Kenansville, Florida, to take this image at Whaley Cattle Company in that Osceola County unincorporated community. Shot on July 4th, she notes, “It shows our grandson, Audie Will Langford, helping work cows. I gave him this American flag and he carried it all day. I captured this photo as he was waiting to take cows through a gate. I have my iPhone with me all the time, so it’s easy to capture such moments with my family. My favorites are non-staged—like this photo! I take photos of cattle, horses, dogs working, cowboys and wildlife on our ranch.”

UNCONVENTIONAL PLAYGROUND

Photo by: Linda Fales

inda Fales of Plant City, Florida, used an iPhone 8 to take this photo at the family’s Hillsborough County beef cattle operation. “I’m a hobby photographer—but this was a spontaneous photo,” she states. “I didn’t have my camera when the kids, Avery and Grayson Fales, and puppy ‘Rip,’ were playing. … To us, hay rolls are part of farm landscape. For the kids, they’re part of their unconventional playground at Nan and Granddaddy’s. This day, like many others, hay roll races, with puppy in tow, was on the agenda. Memories are cherished moments we hold in our hearts and mind. Photography, even with an iPhone8, allows us to freeze those moments in time, to share with others.”

THIS BEAUTIFUL EARTH

“T

his photo gives me a sense of peace,” confides Miranda Davis of Panama City Beach, Florida, while referring to the image she took in that Bay County town. “The beach is where I go to relax. I love nature and I admire this beautiful earth we live on—which is why I have a good eye for photos.” Davis used her iPhone XR to get the shot.

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Photo by: Miranda Davis

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FLORIDA CHARM

AMELIA ISLAND’S FERNANDINA BEACH VICTORIAN SEASIDE CITY IS AN HISTORIC JEWEL OF NORTHERN FLORIDA

Written by: Dave Kelly

ust off the northeast coast of Jacksonville, Florida, near the Georgia line, lies the laid-back community of Amelia Island. Measuring a mere dozen miles long and only about 4 miles wide, this hidden gem may be about the size of Manhattan but is said to be rooted in genuine “Old Florida” history and charm, so we headed north to check it out.

We set up our home base at the Elizabeth Pointe Inn in Fernandina Beach, the island’s historic central city. This old-time Victorian village was once home to pirates, millionaires, bootleggers and other colorful characters. Bars, restaurants and boutiques abound in the quaint downtown area, which has wide streets that are lined with shade trees, benches and open areas to mingle and engage. Dozens of homes from the late 1800s have been meticulously restored to their Golden Age grandeur, giving the area a unique beauty and appeal. The Elizabeth Pointe Inn is nestled against the Atlantic Ocean and its unspoiled coastline, providing the best of beach accommodations while managing to be only a stone’s throw from the island’s bustling downtown. The inn beckons with its Southern coastal allure—four stories of enchanting rooms, oceanfront dining options and manicured grounds leading to the extensive seashore. Indeed, the ocean view from the wraparound second-floor porch beckoned us during our stay to enjoy our morning coffee, a quiet lunch and maybe even an evening beer or two. Inn owner Tarah Dunlop graciously arranged everything for our visit. The inn features The Pointe Restaurant, which is a great little café full of sunny windows overlooking the seemingly endless beach. Unlike most dining options in bed and breakfast-type accommodations, The Pointe is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a customized menu available each day.

At left, viewing the Atlantic Ocean from the sands of Amelia Island. Riders, above right, discover Amelia Island State Park. An aerial view of Fort Clinch State Park is at right.

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PHOTO BY DARON DEAN

Breakfast is included with one’s room and offers cooked-to-order goodies such as build-your-own omelets. Lunch and dinner include many seaside dishes, and restaurant staff members will even pack a picnic basket with beer or wine so you can have a quiet lunch on the beach.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT FLORIDA; BOTTOM PHOTO BY SCOTT BARNETT

NO TRIP TO NORTHERN FLORIDA WOULD BE COMPLETE without visiting nearby Cumberland Island, Georgia. Part of Cumberland Island National Seashore, the island has the only unmanaged herd of feral horses on the Atlantic coast.

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FLORIDA CHARM

Clockwise from top left are the Elizabeth Pointe Inn and the view from one of its balconies; feral horses at Cumberland Island National Seashore; and Fernandina Beach's Centre Street.

Our first stop was Fort Clinch State Park. Its 1,400 acres include sand dunes, Spanish-moss-draped live oaks, windswept beaches and the well-preserved remains of historic Fort Clinch. Construction on the fort started in 1847 and it was in operation during the Civil War, ultimately used by Confederate and Union forces at one time or another. While the fort was never fully completed, it was used as a military outpost up until World War II. In fact, Amelia Island is often called “The Isle of Eight Flags,” because the area is the only place in the U.S. that has lived under the dominion of eight different flags throughout its history. Reenactment events occur year-round, including First Weekend Confederate and Union Garrisons, candlelight tours and larger-scale war reenactments. During many of these events, participants take advantage of the camping, swimming, fishing and hiking offered at the park.

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After leaving Fort Clinch, we headed downtown and visited the Palace Saloon, said to be the oldest saloon in Florida. Of the many establishments that served the huge shrimp fleet in Fernandina Beach at the turn of the last century, only the Palace bore the distinction of being the "ship captain's bar." It is still in its original location on Centre Street. Rumor has it that during Prohibition, the Palace Saloon was the last drinking establishment in the country to close. The beautiful 40-foot bar was designed by Adolphus Busch, co-founder of the Anheuser-Busch beer empire. Full of Coca-Cola—the Palace was reportedly the first bar in the country to serve it to its customers—we headed to Bosque Bello Cemetery. Translated from the Spanish as “Beautiful Woods,” the cemetery was formally established around 1798, but the original markers were made of wood and have long since disappeared. Its oldest current grave marker dates to 1813, with dozens of others marking graves that are 150 years old and more. And the serene environment is home to more than just the deceased. Walkers, cyclists and nature lovers are just some of the folks

TOP LEFT, TOP RIGHT AND BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTOS BY DAVE KELLY

Dunlop was also excited to tell us about her island, offering insightful input on attractions to visit, bars and restaurants to sample, and historic sites to explore. We listened, researched and then headed off to catch some local color.

who appreciate Bosque Bello for its peaceful setting. It’s a place for reflection and introspection in a naturally beautiful environment. No trip to northern Florida would be complete without visiting nearby Cumberland Island, Georgia. Part of Cumberland Island National Seashore, the island has the only unmanaged herd of feral horses on the Atlantic coast. It’s likely that a few horses were brought to the island as livestock when Spanish missions were established in the late 1500s, but the current population largely comes from horses that the English brought in the 18th century.

Tennessee Walkers, Arabians and Paso Finos. Not surprisingly, those are the breeds that were brought and left behind by the English and the Carnegies. Although the feral way of life of these beautiful creatures has a shortening effect on their lifespan, the National Park Service conducts population surveys regularly—finding between 120 and 150 healthy, happy horses roaming the island at any given time. They look glorious in the early morning sunshine. So much history and charm, all packed into Amelia Island. We can’t wait to go back. FCM

During the early 1800s, several plantations were in operation on the island and horses played a key role in work and recreation, with the largest and most opulent of them being the Dungeness Mansion property. Occupied by a long list of notable Southern families, the famously wealthy Carnegie family moved into the mansion in the 1880s, bringing horses for personal use. The family moved out in 1925, leaving many of the horses on the island to fend for themselves. Genetic studies conducted in 1991 showed that Cumberland’s horses are closely related to

ROUNDUP FERNANDINA BEACH, FLORIDA The Elizabeth Pointe Inn 98 S. Fletcher Ave. 904-277-4851, ElizabethPointeAmeliaIsland.com Fort Clinch State Park 2601 Atlantic Ave. 904-277-7274, floridastateparks.org/ fortclinch The Palace Saloon 117 Centre St. 844-441-2444. thepalacesaloon.com Bosque Bello Cemetery 1320 N. 14th St. fbfl.us/276/Bosque-Bello-Cemetery CUMBERLAND ISLAND, GEORGIA nps.gov/cuis/index.htm

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WILD FLORIDA

BOUNTIFUL EVENING IN THE SUNSHINE STATE CRAPPIE OFFER UNDERAPPRECIATED ANGLING OPPORTUNITIES

Written by: Paul Thurman, Ph.D.

t was a typical Friday evening in early summer. The day was long and the temperature was hot. This, combined with being on daylight saving time since March, provided plenty of light after work for us to do some crappie fishing on Lake Talquin, near Tallahassee. I had taken the boat to work to save time, stopped at the local bait shop to load up on small shiners— and we were fishing by 6 p.m. Once anchored in our favorite cove, we baited up and proceeded to cast multiple rods. While the water was full of life—lots of alligators of all sizes, turtles, water birds, loads of bait, and feeding predatory fish—nothing was interested in our bait at first.

As we waited, we talked and enjoyed the occasional beverage, along with a large bag of boiled peanuts. My fishing partner commented that the weather was “too perfect for the fish to not be biting.” Right on cue, my bobber holding a small 3-inch shiner disappeared in a patch of lily pads. A short time later, our first fish was in the cooler—a nice 13-inch black crappie. The next 45 minutes saw non-stop action, and neither of us could fish with more than one rod because the fish were biting too fast. We finished the evening with the cooler full of eight crappie measuring 12 to 15 inches, three good channel cats, a large brown bullhead and a monster warmouth.

Fishing on Lake Talquin can result in catching a lot of black crappie, and other species, as photos on this and opposite page show. The water is home to many creatures, including gators of all sizes.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN, PH.D.

THE AVERAGE CRAPPIE MEASURES ABOUT 10 TO 11 INCHES, AND THE STATE RECORD IS 3.8 POUNDS. AS SUCH, YOUR TACKLE SHOULD BE GEARED ON THE LIGHTER SIDE.

TOP PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN, PH.D.

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WILD FLORIDA

Black crappie, also known as crappie, speckled perch or specks, are one of Florida’s most popular freshwater fish species. While crappie may not get the same attention as largemouth bass, they can provide both consistent and fast action—along with table fare that is second to none. Another added benefit is that unlike many other sportfish, crappie are relatively short-lived, making them less susceptible to overfishing. This makes large catches of crappie by anglers not only common, but capable of supporting heavy fishing pressure year after year. Although Florida lies at the southern end of the range

of black crappie, there are multiple water bodies throughout the state that produce high numbers. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reports high-quality crappie fisheries in not only Talquin, but in Lake Trafford, Lake Okeechobee and Lake Kissimmee, to name a few. Within the lakes, crappie can be found in a variety of habitats. However, these tend to change: During much of the year, crappie can be found in more open, often deeper, waters. In spring and early summer, as waters warm, adult crappie can migrate into shallower areas to spawn. There they can be found in water as shallow as 1 or 2 feet. Crappie are relatively small compared with other Florida sportfish. The average crappie measures about 10 to 11 inches, and the state record is 3.8 pounds. As such, your tackle should be geared on the lighter side.

A SHORT TIME LATER, OUR FIRST FISH WAS IN THE COOLER—A NICE 13-INCH BLACK CRAPPIE. THE NEXT 45 MINUTES SAW NON-STOP ACTION, AND NEITHER OF US COULD FISH WITH MORE THAN ONE ROD BECAUSE THE FISH WERE BITING TOO FAST.

In addition to crappie, your catch of the day might just include channel catfish, brown bullheads, warmouth bass and more.

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF PAUL THURMAN, PH.D.

We also released quite a few crappie between 10 and 12 inches in length. They were legal for the lake but didn’t meet our “boat standard” of 12 inches. Not bad for a couple hours of effort!

Proudly holding part of an upcoming delicious meal.

Light rods with reels spooled with 6- to 8-pound monofilament test will usually do the trick, but you can often get away with slightly heavier braided line. Anything larger and the required small bait becomes difficult to cast. Long cane or expanding poles longer than 12 feet are another popular option when fishing live bait in and around heavy vegetation such as lily pads. Adult black crappie are predators that feed primarily on smaller fish species, such as small shiners that can be found in most bait and tackle shops. Fishing this bait with a small hook under a cork is a great way to catch crappie. When crappie are scattered in open water, trolling jigs are popular and effective options to locate and catch fish. The jig color and depth the fish are feeding at can vary from day to day, so try fishing multiple colors and depths. Pay close attention to your fish finder to help narrow down choices for depth and where to fish. Crappie, like bass, are often managed on a lake-by-lake basis in Florida. Before starting your trip, be sure to check up-to-date regulations for the water body you are fishing. Good luck and tight lines! FCM F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

MY BEST FRIEND

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

Taylor Daniels of Havana, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Honey Best Friend’s Breed: Jersey/Norwegian Red cross

Honey is my “once-in-a-lifetime” best friend and she’ll always hold a very special spot within my heart. There’ll be a day that comes when we can no longer share this life together. That’s the day I’ll begin counting down to the moment I can run to my best friend who awaits at the rainbow bridge.

Amy Wiggins of Palm Harbor, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Skeeter Best Friend’s Breed: Yorkshire Terrier Skeeter is my little rescue. I adopted him because I needed him as much as he needed me. No matter how I’m feeling, he’s there to love me. He offers great companionship on trips, walks on the beach and loves golf cart rides. He really leads by example when it comes to happiness. He has no judgment and he’s my little protector, a private comedian and gives me therapy. I could not imagine my life without him.

Susi Vogel of Jacksonville, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Larry Best Friend’s Breed: Red slider turtle We found Larry on a sidewalk three and a half years ago. He was the size of a quarter and looked very weak and hungry. We took him in and he’s been with us since. Funny thing, when he was little, if he was hungry, he’d let you know. He’d throw one of his little pebbles against his glass, LOL! So that’s when he got his name—“Larry the Angry Turtle”! I went every morning to the pond to catch him some little fish to eat. He sure isn’t a vegetarian! Now I have to go to the store and get him feeder fish to make him happy.

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Ashley Holland of Fruitland Park, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Taking A Chance On Me Best Friend’s Breed: Quarter Horse Chance is my all-in-one! He’s my best friend, my peace and my escape. Every time we go for a ride or enter the arena, he makes sure to take care of me! My horse is one of my best friends because I can count on him to be there for me when no one else will. No matter what kind of day I’m having, just the simple nicker when he sees me—or his ears standing straight up waiting to see what I have for him—can change your entire mood!

Jason Haworth of Citrus County, Florida Best Friend’s Name: KC Hayes Best Friend’s Breed: Great Dane/Ridgeback mix KC had the biggest heart. He was thrown out of a moving truck as a puppy. We took him home. We had many dogs over the years—none quite like KC, though. He was visibly most happy when his family was all home. After the 10 and a half weeks I spent in ORMC [Orlando Regional Medical Center] after getting hit on my Harley, I couldn’t wait to get home to see my brother (KC). I was so demanding, the hospital staff allowed him to come stay a few days at

3 5 6

7 the hospital with me. When I got home, KC was the most loving, protective brother ever! He didn’t leave my side for another two months while I recovered. KC died nearly six years now, but he’s still the subject of many of our conversations. I miss him so much.

Linda Floyd of Cape Coral, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Gabe Best Friend’s Breed: Labradoodle Not only is Gabe my best friend, he’s a therapy dog who works with special kids at South Fort Myers High School. He’s a one-of-a-kind dog who knows if you’re feeling blue and will do something funny or give you lots of kisses to make you feel better. He loves to go to restaurants with us—and everyone knows his name

instead of ours! Gabe has no enemies. During this time of “stay at home,” he’s my source of comfort.

Wanda R. Williams of Ocala, Florida Best Friend’s Name: Michael McGee Best Friend’s Breed: Border Collie Michael McGee is my third Border Collie. I acquired my first Border Collie after raving about the breed for years after seeing my friend’s dogs and seeing how smart they were. They just look at you and can read your mind! OK, well, there may be a little bit of stubbornness when they’re young, but they only want to please you! Michael’s full of energy and keeps me on my toes, but it’s so rewarding watching her learn new things and always making me smile!

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THE WATERING HOLE

A SPIRITED ENTREPRENEUR STOCKYARD ‘HOSS’ WHISKEY CAPS BRANDON BING’S MULTI-CAREER RUN Written by: Jack Collier

In Florida, it’s Brandon Bing’s Stockyard “Hoss” Whiskey, a sweet mash barreled in white oak and an easy smoked flavor on sipping. “A warm feeling on the back end,” explains Bing, whose 25-year dream was a top-shelf Florida whiskey. Neat or cocktailed? “It doesn’t matter,” the spirited entrepreneur says. “It’s super smooth.” Stockyard Whiskey—it’s “whiskey” for Irish and U.S. brands, “whisky” for Scotch, Canadian or Japanese—went from imagined things to your lips because Bing, who is 32 and based in Volusia County on Florida’s east coast, had worked the “American Dream,” hustling as a 4-H kid to achieving top status as a Florida salesperson. Then, in July of 2015, forming All American Solar with his partner and friend Steven Lorenz.

The pair’s company in five years has achieved multimilliondollar sales. All American Solar in its rocket ride has joined with the University of Florida for an agriculture student endowment, with broadcast industry partners, and with the Orlando Magic professional basketball franchise—all in work to benefit others, something greater than receiving, Bing relates. Bing has also accelerated in performing country music. Selftaught and a lifelong writer, Brandon “Big Hoss” Bing has released Sunday Funday, a song that connects his grandparents’ farming and that 4-H background in Florida with a bonded belief in country values, work, family and church, he states. And so evolved Stockyard Whiskey, a gentleman’s pursuit that launched this past January. His recipe, “tailored with tastes and profiles I had,” transformed to a crafted flavor, aged for a year and just made available. It’s packaged in a

Multi-talented Brandon "Big Hoss" Bing's Stockyard Spirits LLC company offers multiple products. At left is Stockyard Hand Sanitizer, for our COVID-19 era. Opposite page, his Stockyard "Hoss" Whiskey.

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PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE COURTESY OF STOCKYARD SPIRITS

n Scotland, whisky is the water of life.

FOCUSED AND CHASING THE DREAM, ONE RUNG TO THE NEXT, IS HOW BRANDON “BIG HOSS” BING LIVES EVERY BLINK OF A GOOD AND FULFILLING LIFE.

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THE WATERING HOLE standard 25.5-ounce (750-ml) custom bottle, under a private label that Bing designed.

“No way were they going to be available,” he reports of applying for trademark rights. “And, by God, they had never been applied for. I secured that.” Focused and chasing the dream, one rung to the next, is how Brandon “Big Hoss” Bing lives every blink of a good and fulfilling life. “The moment you feel you’re at your best,” he says, “you’re going to plateau. Learn to adapt … to everything … and you’ll hit your stride.” Amen, “Big Hoss.” FCM

Making a classic old fashioned with Stockyard "Hoss" Whiskey. "It's super smooth," Bing says.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF STOCKYARD SPIRITS

It is from the Orlando distiller Jose Aponta at his JLA Distillery. In addition, that distillery has supplied a Stockyard hand-sanitizer for our current COVID-19 era. Bing has also trademarked “Hoss Nation” and his Stockyard brands.

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STARS & GUITARS presented by

MEET ASHLEY MCBRYDE OUR INTERVIEW: SINGING GREAT STORIES, HIDING PLASTIC ANIMALS, HUGGING HER BANDMATES

lorida Country Magazine interviewed country singer-songwriter Ashley McBryde, winner of the 2019 ACM Awards’ New Female Vocalist of the Year and CMA Awards’ New Artist of the Year. Her website, ashleymcbryde.com, says NPR “dubbed her country music’s most exciting new country voice.” According to Rolling Stone, “She’s an Arkansas red-clay badass, with the swagger of Hank Jr. and the songwriting of Miranda Lambert.”

On April 3, she released her latest album, Never Will, to rave reviews. McBryde was born in 1983 and moved to Nashville in 2007 and—well, let’s just let this shining star tell her story: FCM Did you know when you first picked up your father’s guitar that music was your destiny? AM I either knew right then or knew that music was going to be my thing. I was too small to carefully hold and play a guitar and would often be spanked or at least spatted for standing it up and playing it like a bass. But that didn’t stop me from doing it again. I was obsessed. Playing music has always been my first thought each day and my last thought at night. FCM You’ve talked openly about your father not supporting your career choice despite your success. What would you say to another young girl, trying to find her way in life, but struggling with no support from a parent? AM That’s a tricky one. Every child/parent relationship dynamic is so different. Every parent has reasons they do or don’t support their young one. But I’d say to any young boy or girl, no matter what your passion is—and you’ll know the difference between a hobby and a passion, trust me—the only person who can truly keep you from pursuing it is you. That fire in your heart; you gotta keep that lit no matter who doesn’t understand it or care about it. It’s yours and no one can take it from you. FCM What was the first song you wrote and how old were you? AM I started singing the things I was doing all day long when I was about 4, according to my mother. How she put up with that, I don’t know—I’m sure those ditties were annoying. I was 12 when I wrote “Fight the Flames.” I sang it to my mother and grandparents. My mom’s response was, “Where did you get that song?” I was offended and said, “I wrote it!” And she just said, “Oh, boy.” She knew I had the bug. FCM What was it like to get the call from Carrie Underwood that you’d been named ACM’s New Female Vocalist of the Year? AM That was unreal. I was burning brush down at the barn and almost didn’t hear the phone. That call is one of the most memorable of my life thus far. FCM What was the best part about touring with Luke Combs? AM Luke is such a great guy. His whole crew is full of wonderful people. We get along so well that it makes it easy to spend most of the year together. Luke and his band’s sense of humor is definitely a highlight on the road. FCM You love everyone to have a personal experience when they come see you. Why is that so important to you? AM I can probably attribute that to growing up going to bluegrass festivals. These monstrously talented musicians

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were so accessible after their shows, and I want to carry on that tradition. The other part of that is we’re all going through something each day. Bills are late, fights with loved ones … When you’re at my show, it’s my responsibility to make sure you don’t think about any of that for 90 minutes. As long as we’re together, everything is all right.

FCM You’re a great storyteller—as in your videos for “One Night Standards,” “Martha Divine” and “Hang in There Girl.” At the end of “Hang in There Girl,” a man digs up what appears to be the motel’s guest registry book. Any clues on what we can expect? AM Oh, now, I can’t give away all my secrets.

FCM How’d you start hiding small plastic animals for fans? AM Oh, goodness, it’s a multi-part story. I follow quite a few artists on Instagram (I’m a fan first; this was a couple years before things took off.) I got so tired of only seeing “Look how cool I am!” or “Look how huge this crowd is!” … So I started posting, “Here’s a tiny plastic dinosaur in a BBQ restaurant.” I guess it was just quirky enough and just odd enough that it struck a chord with our fans. Now if you find a “tiny diny” we hide, you can take it to merch and get a little prize—which is another layer of fun, and I’m all for that.

FCM “Hang in There Girl” was inspired by a girl you drove past on a remote highway. You wanted to pull over and tell her to hang in there, but felt it’d be creepy for a stranger to do that. Imagine you see your 15-year-old self on that highway, and pull over. What do you say? AM My 15-year-old self? I’d be mysterious as possible and say, “That heartbreak you’re about to go through is really valuable, so lean into it when it happens. And I don’t want to spoil the best parts for you ... But all those times you imagine you’re playing the Opry? Keep. Doing. That. It turns out really

PHOTOS ON THIS AND OPPOSITE PAGE BY DANIEL MEIGS

Ashley McBryde

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STARS & GUITARS cool. You know what you are, so don’t ever let go of that. Keep ahold of it with both hands and it’s all yours. Hang in there, kiddo.”

ONCE WE GET BACK ON THE ROAD, OUR FIRE FOR ENTERTAINING IS GOING TO BE OUT OF CONTROL!

FCM What’s one of the best moments in your life personally or professionally? AM I have so many to choose from—but most things pale in comparison to playing the Grand Ole Opry for the first time [in 2017]. That covers personal and professional. FCM If you had the opportunity to sit down with one person, past or present, who would it be? What’s the first question you’d ask? AM I’d sit with Doc Holliday and listen to any story he wanted to share with me—and, hopefully, have a drink with him. FCM You’re also known for your tattoos and getting new ones when you reach significant milestones. What’s your latest and what does it represent? AM The newest one is a circus tightrope walker. She’s blindfolded with only an umbrella to steady her, and her banner reads, “No net, No regrets.” She represents the chances I’ve taken over the last couple years. Once I started operating without a net—with a “do or die” attitude—things have gone well. FCM Do you have special talents other than music? And what’s one thing you haven’t done that you’d love to do? AM I’m pretty handy and pretty crafty. I tool leather, make candles and things like that. I also (and this may sound weird) love creating silly characters and making videos for friends and family. I’ve always wanted to play fiddle and banjo. I’ve never been good at either, which drives me nuts. I guess I just need to get one of each and really give it an honest try.

FCM What can your fans expect from you in the future? AM Once we get back on the road, our fire for entertaining is going to be out of control! Our fans can expect us to up our game—for sure. As always, they can bet on honest rock ’n’ roll every time we get together. Plastic animals hidden everywhere. And a visible and tangible joy and love for making music. FCM

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PHOTO BY DANIEL MEIGS

FCM Most of the world’s been in some type of quarantine in uncertain times with COVID-19. What’s one thing you’ve realized you’ve taken for granted? AM Hugs. I’m a big hugger. My band and crew and I all greet and leave one another with a hug. I really miss that. We’re so tight-knit. We hang out, eat at shows and festivals, party and go to bars together. I really miss my band. And I may not say I’ve taken them for granted, but I didn’t realize how important their hugs are to me until this happened.

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Small rivers Heifers' mates Rays' score Horse breed from Mexico 12 Stayed out under the stars 14 Fishing equipment 15 Karma 16 Coastal cove 18 "What Kind of Fool ___?" 19 Buccaneers play in it 20 Belonging to a lady 22 Sunset colors, 2 words 24 Summery weather 27 Trimaran, for one 28 Santa __ 29 Comic character comment 30 Evening time, abbr. 31 Light summer wind 35 Endangered butterfly 36 They fly in a V

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Pure ___ horse Snake to watch out for Bow shape Business degree Yes in Spanish Lake activity Chop off a branch Got ready to ride, 2 words ___ state (blissful self-awareness) Auto shaft, slang "___ , myself, and I" Kind of bean Fairy of childhood Bridge position Dean's e-mail address ender Compass point Cook, as clams Camera brand Doctrine, suffix Go visit Lily pad jumper Golf score to be proud of Artist's asset Time before a holiday Expression of comprehension

HIDDEN WORD

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TECH TALK

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE FOR YOUR VEHICLE AVOID ‘DOMINO EFFECT’ THAT LEADS TO ‘VICIOUS CYCLE’ OF COSTLY REPAIRS

Written by: Savage 4x4

s the owner of Savage 4x4, Inc., an automotive repair and customization shop in Fort Myers, Florida, I can’t stress enough how important it is to maintain your vehicle. I’m not just talking about an oil change every 3,000 (conventional fluid) to 6,000 (synthetic fluid) miles— although doing this is extremely important. There are many other components that require attention to keep your vehicle “healthy” and save you a lot of money in the long run. In this article, I’ll explain what I call a “vicious cycle” of costly repairs, how to prevent them and even get more miles out of your vehicle. Some of the components that can cause a “domino effect” if they are not properly maintained include—but are not

limited to—tie rod ends, ball joints, bearings and other miscellaneous parts, as well as suspension and shocks. It takes only one of these components “going bad” to cause premature damage to all the other parts, including tires. Even the track bar on the latest straight front axle vehicles can quickly wear and can cause what is referred to as “death wobble” if not checked every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. This is horrible shaking—causing difficulty controlling the vehicle, especially going more than 40 miles per hour. Let’s talk about tire maintenance: In warm-weather states such as Florida, road temperature can get extremely hot. When your vehicle is running on already high-temperature roads, they get much hotter than the road. Imagine the

MANY PEOPLE DO NOT REALIZE THAT THE LIFE EXPECTANCY OF A TIRE—WITH REGULAR DAILY MILEAGE—IS ABOUT ONLY FOUR YEARS FOR THE AVERAGE VEHICLE IN THE HOTTER SOUTHERN STATES, NO MATTER HOW MUCH TREAD IS LEFT ON THE TIRE.

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rubber tires going from 70 degrees or lower to well above 180 degrees—constantly. The pressure per square inch, or PSI, in your tires can start at 35 before you drive and can go up as high as an additional 8 to 10 PSI upon reaching your destination. Putting nitrogen in your tires will keep the PSI from fluctuating. Yet few places provide this service— and it must be 100 percent nitrogen with no air blend for this to work properly. This change in temperature and PSI make the tire compound (rubber) get harder and can sometimes cause cracking.

We recommend preventive maintenance every 12,000 to 16,000 miles. However, some products may not show very much wear at these intervals but can suddenly— with potholes or other unexpected conditions—cause the components to fail prematurely. If your vehicle has a noticeable difference in drivability, we recommend getting checked sooner. FCM

Everyone knows how important it is to have good tires. But many people do not realize that the life expectancy of a tire—with regular daily mileage—is about only four years for the average vehicle in the hotter Southern states, no matter how much tread is left on the tire. Yes, they can last longer, but band and rubber breakdown will occur after four years. So, to put this in perspective, bad tires can cause the vehicle to handle differently on the road, which can cause damage to the suspension and steering components. Damaged suspension and steering components can cause tires to wear prematurely—hence the “vicious cycle” of costly repairs.

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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 6 skinless and boneless chicken breasts 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms 2 tablespoons butter, melted ½ cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup butter ¾ cup Marsala wine ½ cup chicken broth ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese ½ cup Parmesan cheese 2 greens onions, chopped PREPARATION Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Cook mushrooms in 2 tablespoons butter in large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes, until tender. Remove from heat, set aside. Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise. Place chicken between 2 sheets of heavy-duty plastic wrap and flatten with meat mallet to ⅛ thickness. Coat both sides of chicken in flour. Cook chicken in sets with 1 to 2 tablespoons butter in large skillet over medium heat, 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Place chicken in greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Repeat procedure with remaining chicken and butter. Reserve pan drippings in skillet. Sprinkle mushrooms evenly over chicken. Add wine and broth to drippings in skillet. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in salt and pepper to taste. Pour sauce over chicken. Combine cheeses with green onions and sprinkle over chicken. Bake uncovered 12 to 14 minutes, until cheeses melt.

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CHICKEN LOMBARDY Serves 6

INGREDIENTS 1 package dry Italian salad dressing mix 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon thyme 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 bunch green onions, cleaned and chopped 2 cloves garlic 1 jalapeño, chopped Juice of 1 lime 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 8 pieces chicken drumsticks and thighs Vegetable oil (to brush grill grates)

SPICY JERK CHICKEN Serves 4

PREPARATION ing mix, brown For marinade, combine dry Italian salad dress green onions, er, pepp nne sugar, thyme, cinnamon, salt, caye in blender. Blend r wate and oil garlic, jalapeños, lime juice, olive use. Place chicklater for nade until smooth. Set aside ¼ cup mari chicken, toss over nade mari en in shallow dish. Pour remaining re sides ensu to lly siona occa en to coat. Refrigerate. Turn chick t. nigh over or s hour two marinate evenly. Marinate at least ly with grill brush. Heat grill to medium-high. Oil grill grates light is charred in en chick until lly, Grill chicken, turning occasiona r part of coole a to en chick e spots, about 10 to 12 minutes. Mov d about close r cove with Grill . nade grill. Brush with reserved mari ly cooked. 10 to 15 more minutes, until chicken is thorough

WATERMELON SALAD Serves 4

INGREDIENTS ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar ½ teaspoon salt 3 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 1 cup cucumber, chopped 1 cup crumbled feta cheese ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced ½ cup chopped mint PREPARATION gar In small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vine bine com l, bow and salt for dressing. In a serving mint. and n onio watermelon, cucumber, feta, red . Add dressing and toss to combine

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THE CULINARY CRACKER

MELON PROSCIUTTO SKEWERS Yields 12

TTO INGREDIENTS MELON PROSCIU 1 cantaloupe 12 fresh basil leaves balls (Ciliegine) 8-ounce mozzarella 12 slices prosciutto STO INGREDIENTS LEMON MINT PE 4 cups fresh mint ves ½ cup fresh basil lea grated and ½ juiced ly 1 lemon zest fresh ts ¼ cup toasted pine nu 2 garlic cloves ½ cup olive oil ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper red pepper flakes ¼ teaspoon crushed

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N TTO PREPARATIO MELON PROSCIU rd sca Di d scoop out. Halve cantaloupe an lls. baller, scoop out 24 ba n elo seeds. Using a m , sil ba e, up alo d layer cant Assemble skewers an of e ec pi d on and a sec mozzarella, prosciutto are 12 filled skewers. e er th cantaloupe until tting prosciutto before pu Crumple each slice of on skewer. O PREPARATION LEMON MINT PEST ice, , lemon zest, lemon ju Combine mint, basil lse Pu . or ess oc in a food pr pine nuts and garlic essor oc pr od fo main. With until small crumbs re ¼ th wi t ar St l. in olive oi running, slowly pour cy. en ist ns co ed reach desir cup and add extra to end red pepper flakes. Bl Add salt, pepper and needed. again. Taste; season if

INGREDIENTS 4 sheets tapioca paper 1 avocado, sliced in pieces lengthwise ½ cucumber, peeled and julienned ½ medium carrot, peeled and julienned 4 leaves Bibb or butter lettuce, halved 8 large shrimp, cooked and butterfly sliced 4 pieces imitation crabmeat 2 cups warm water PREPARATION paper until Pour the water in big bowl and soak tapioca kitchen on it softens. Remove softened paper and place shrimp towel. Let rest for half a minute. Align two ld face in middle of paper. Outer part of shrimp shou p. Top down. Arrange a leaf of lettuce on top of shrim piece 1 with pieces of avocado, carrots, cucumber and fold bottom of crabmeat. Press filling with fingers, then halfway. end of tapioca paper over top of filling. Roll until Fold edges of paper inward, continue rolling both fillings are secured. Folding the ends will close at Repe edges, ensuring fillings are securely wrapped. to steps. Slice each roll in the middle and transfer e. serving plate. Enjoy with favorite dipping sauc

SUMMER SUSHI ROLL Serves 4

INGREDIENTS ed 2 cups Thai sweet rice, uncook ar sug wn 5 tablespoons bro ¼ teaspoon salt 1 can coconut milk, 13.5 ounces 2 medium mangoes

MANGO STICKY RICE WITH COCONUT SAUCE Serves 2 to 4

PREPARATION minutes. Do not drain Soak rice in 1 cup water for 30 rice that was soaking, rice. In medium saucepan, add k, salt and 1 tablespoon ½ cup water, ½ can coconut mil low boil. Partially brown sugar. Stir well. Bring to for steam to escape. cover saucepan, leaving room to 30 minutes or until Reduce heat and simmer for 20 ed by rice. Turn off coconut water has been absorb with lid on tightly. Sit heat. Leave saucepan on burner m remaining coconut for 10 minutes. For sauce, war 5 minutes. Add 4 milk over medium-low heat for to dissolve. Peel mangoes tablespoons brown sugar, stir Scoop warm rice into and cut into bite-sized pieces. es on rice and drizzle serving bowl, arrange mango slic coconut sauce on top. F LO R I D A C O U NTRYM A G A Z I N E . C O M

TELLING TALES

GOLD TOES’ BRONC RIDE

Written by: Forrest Boone

lorida’s horse country; with a senate president and ag commissioner who were cowmen and horse people, it was inevitable a legislative trail ride would make the calendar for a weekend during session. Statewide, folks loaded stock trailers, goosenecks and horse haulers, heading toward Tallahassee and Apalachicola National Forest for food, fun and riding. Steven Hilliard and “Little Jimmy” Bass followed Jimmy’s dad with their horses and four more for guests. The boys would ride alongside the extra horses, helping inexperienced riders. The ride formed with the senate president and commissioner in front. There’d be two morning rides, then lunch at camp. Saturday night would feature a steak cookout and the largest bonfire in Florida. The forest was beautiful in spring, with a chill in the air and endless blue sky. Riders went up a hill, down through pines and around a lake. Steven, sufficiently bored, began to build a loop and play at heeling Jimmy’s horse, Bud. The big red horse could not have cared less, having spent most of his life with the boys fooling around, roping each other and most anything else when not trying to catch steers. To Steven’s left was a nattily dressed young man with gold-colored toe and heel caps on shiny boots, and new Resistol hat covering a fine haircut. He was riding Steven’s horse Golden Dancer, named by the first owner. The gentleman was obviously not a team roping aficionado, not appreciating the art of roping the hind feet of a friend’s horse while trail riding: “Hey, could you cut that out? You’re making this horse jumpy; he’s scared of the rope.”

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Steven gave Dancer a look—Dancer looked like usual. The horse should’ve been named Buttercup. Steven traded for him to have a ride for horse-crazy girls; palominos were absolute “chick magnets.” Dancer might’ve been jumpy one day but that day was not today or any other day in the past several years. Steven, remembering his job of ensuring guests had a good time, coiled his rope and said the horse looked like he was under control. “Get to ride much?” Steven asked. “Not so much anymore,” Gold Toes answered. “Used to ride, rodeoed some but got hurt riding bulls and couldn’t keep up with school and work.” Steven glanced to be sure the voice came from Gold Toes. “Yep, that’s tough to do, for sure,” Steven agreed. “Working for a representative doesn’t leave much spare time either,” Gold Toes said. “I’m sure,” said Steven, as Gold Toes expounded on the crucial role of legislative staff. “Y’all doin’ OK back there, Steven?” Jimmy called. “Oh, yeah, we’re in good shape,” Steven answered. “Hey, do you know this horse’s name?” Gold Toes asked loud enough for Jimmy to hear. The answer was on Steven’s lips as Jimmy swung round, saying: “Yeah, that’s Ground Pounder— used to call him Widow Maker but real name’s Ground Pounder.” Dancer gave an approving snort for no particular reason. “Yeah, I’m not surprised, but we got it,” Gold Toes said, tightening his hold on the saddle horn, fingers staying fixed for the remainder of the ride. “Good riding with you. You handled that horse really well,” Steven said as Gold Toes gingerly dismounted back at the bonfire and cook tent area. “That was great; thank you,” Gold Toes said, shaking Steven’s hand. Turning to greet two gushing college girls, Gold Toes mentioned “having a little bronc” in him as he and the girls wandered toward the tent. Jimmy leaned over in his saddle toward Steven, saying in a low voice, “I swear that horse winked.” FCM

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