Heartland Magazine January 2015

JAN 2015

COMMISSIONER

Adam Putnam

K now s C it rus Beyond Microbes ‌ Changing Outcomes in Citrus o More & more robust feeder root development o Significantly reduced fruit drop o Mineralization of nitrogen from residual soil fertility – organic & chemical o Renewed leaf flush and restored tree vigor

BioCharged Fertility Contact your local Pathway distributor or representative for MERGE

TM

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w w w.Pat hw ayBioLogic.com

813 . 719 . 7284 January 2015

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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We Now Have a Lender in Your Area

Contact AgAmerica Lending today for a low interest, long term land loan, refinance or line of credit.

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AgAmerica Lending, LLC - 4030 S. Pipkin Road Lakeland, FL 33811 | Please call for current rates.

January 2015

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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JAN 2015

January Features 33

Commissioner Adam Putnam Florida Department of Agriculture

36

Fresh From Florida Florida Department of Agriculture

46

Florida Forest Service 70th Birthday for Smokey Bear

48

Domer’s Incorporated

By Robbi Sumner

50

UF/IFAS Ona Cattle Range Station

By Kathy Gregg

60

Farm to School

By Dixie Thomas

62

Departments 18

By Captain Chris O’Neill

Chef Justin Timineri Florida Seafood Recipes

SW Florida Gulf Coast Fishing Report

24

Leigh Ann Wynn’s Investing in Rural Property

26

By Justin Smith

NEXT MONTH:

Florida Tomato Farming

Citrus Update

68

Circus Arts Festival in Montreal

By Getaway Girl Casey Wohl

70

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

Happenings

January 2015

Publisher Rhonda Glisson Rhonda@heartlanditf.com Karen Berry kdberry@inthefieldmagazine.com Business Manager Nadine Glisson Lizette Sarria Art Directors Carrie Evans Olivia Fryer Staff Writers Cindy Cutright Ron Lambert Levi Lambert Brian Norris Kyndall Robertson Justin Smith Robbi Sumner Dixie Thomas Brady Vogt Contributing Writers Taylor Dupree Brewington Audra Clemons Kathy Gregg Laurie Hurner Tim Hurner Capt. Mark King Capt. Chris O’Neill Bob Stone Brenda Valentine Matt Warren Butch Wilson Lindsey Wiggins Casey Wohl Social Media Director Brian Norris Photography Regina Blackman Sharon Glisson Kathy Gregg Russell Hancock Silver King Photography Nell McAuley Brian Norris

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

Editor’s Note Hello to our friends in the Heartland! We hope that everyone enjoyed the holiday season and is off to a positive start for the New Year!

We are proud to kick-start 2015 by featuring the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and its Commissioner, Adam Putnam in many of this month’s articles. Commissioner Putnam was first elected to this position in 2010 after serving five terms as Congressman for Florida’s 12th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Before he was elected to Congress, Commissioner Putnam served in the Florida House of Representatives from 1996 to 2000. He was handily reelected for a second term as Ag Commissioner this past November. Learn about the “Fresh From Florida” program and other varied responsibilities of FDACS, including livestock inspections and issuance of concealed weapon permits, throughout this issue.

Fair season is upon us! From the South Florida fair in West Palm Beach to the State Fair in Tampa, excitement is in the air! Youth from our ten-county region are busy grooming their animals and honing their showmanship skills for County Fairs and Livestock Shows. Be sure and check out the calendar on page #44 so you can get out and show your support of 4-H and FFA members.

Also be sure to read on page #50 about the UF/IFAS Ona Cattle Range Station and all the new exciting things happening, located in southwestern Hardee County.

As always, we love to hear from our readers! If you have an idea for a story or know of an event we should cover, please let us know. You can email Rhonda@ heartlanditf.com or share on Facebook.com/HeartlandMagazine.

Wishing you another year of joy and prosperity!

All of us at Heartland Magazine Heartland in the Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and other local venues within Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Charlotte, Glades, Hendry, Okeechobee, Lee, Manatee and St. Lucie Counties. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to Heartland In the Field Magazine, P.O. Box 3183 Plant City, FL. 33563 or you are welcome to e-mail them to Rhonda@heartlanditf. com or call 813-708-3661.

Advertisers warrant & represent the description of their products advertised are true in all respects. Heartland In the Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by their advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of G Five Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in Heartland In the Field Magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications and G Five.

All contents Copyright 2014. No part of this work may be copied, transmitted, reproduced or reprinted without the express written consent of the publisher. Annual subscriptions to receive Heartland A Way of Life at your home or business is $25 annually. For advertising, subscriptions or editorial questions please call 813-7083661 or email rhonda@heartlanditf.com. Heartland® A Way Of Life In The Field publication has been in print since 2008.

January 2015

January 2015

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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JAN 2015

Index of Advertisers 81

Arcadia Stockyard

29

Helena Chemical

7

Plant Food Systems

5

Ag America

11

Hicks Oil

5

Precision Land Management

72

Big T Tire

23

84

Quail Creek Plantation

34

Big Bird Festival

Highlands County Citrus Fun Shoot

75

River Pasture

15

Highlands Farm Bureau Thank you

79

Sapp Quail Farms

79

Horseshoeing and Trimming Services/Wayne Peadon

30

Seedway

54/55 Seminole Tribe Rodeo Pro Series

31

Brad Hartt Construction

57

Cattlemen’s Livestock Market

47

Center State Bank

25

Chop-N-Block

82

John’s Leather & Saddle Repair

82

Southern Staple

2

Creel

67

Joshua Citrus

79

Spring Lake Hardware

79

Cross Ties

87

Kelly Tractor

80

Stampede

25

DeSoto Machine Shop

9

Keyplex

27

Stoller

85

Domer’s Inc.

19

Laye’s Tire

79

Superior Muffler

86

Farm Credit

17

Labelle Feed

39

Taylor Oil

30

Fields Equipment

82

Lemon Grove

30

The Andersons

84

Florida Mineral Salt & Agriculture Products

39

Marmer Construction

47

Trinkle Redman Coton

Michael G. Kirsch

Tutto Fresco Italian Grill

Florida Fence Post

79

67

59

Mosaic

Walpole Feed

Florida Strawberry Festival

59

42

74

Natalies

Watering Hole

Glade and Grove

4

88

58

Newton Crouch

Wauchula State Bank

Glisson’s Animal Supply

31

75

82

Okeechobee Livestock Market

Wicks Brown CPA

Griffin’s Carpet Mart

78

25

73

On-Site Accounting

Williams Pawn & Gun

Gunsmoke

73

79

21

Other Side Sod

Williams Spreader

Hardee Ranch Supply

15

30

82

Pathway

Winfield Solutions

Harold P. Curtis Honey

3

79

82

Peace River Citrus

Yetti Outfitters

Heartland Growers Supply

28

17

82

Sales Team HigHlands

Manatee

lee and Hendry

Morgan Norris

Tina Yoder

Cindy Cutright

morgan@heartlanditf.com

tina@heartlanditf.com

cindy@heartlanditf.com

Corporate, polk & HillsborougH

Danny Crampton danny@inthefieldmagazine.com

Hardee & desoto

CHarlotte

Robbi Sumner

Morgan Norris

robbi@heartlanditf.com

morgan@heartlanditf.com

Levi Lambert

okeeCHobee, glades & st. luCie

Robbi Sumner robbi@heartlanditf.com

Morgan Norris morgan@heartlanditf.com

Rhonda Glisson rhonda@heartlanditf.com

levi@heartlanditf.com

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

January 2015

District 6 Update From the Desk of Andy Neuhofer

As the New Year begins, there are many projects happening within Farm Bureau. First, I wish to announce the topic of the 2015 Youth Speech Contest. The topic is: How does Florida’s Right to Farm Act help farmers and ranchers when their rights are challenged? The purpose of the contest is to get young people involved in Farm Bureau and to learn about an issue. Winning speeches take time and research to put together. Students between the ages of 14 – 18 have to learn about the topic/issue in order to make a good presentation.

The Florida Farm Bureau Federation Women’s Conference is March 5-7 in Sandestin, FL, which is in the panhandle. Registration information is available on www.floridafarmbureau.org.

Farm Bureau members will be meeting with their representatives in Tallahassee on March 17-18 in order to discuss pertinent issues and promote our policy positions on legislation. Legislative priorities are being formulated. Two issues that will be of considerable importance will be further tax reductions for agricultural producers and a statewide water policy. The new land purchasing

ANDY NEUHOFER FLORIDA FARM BUREAU DISTRICT 6 352.318.2506 Andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org www.floridafarmbureau.org

program that was passed by the voters last November will become important for agriculture as well.

Farm Bureau members can subscribe to the AG Watch electronic newsletter to keep abreast of the state issues by contacting Lance Pierce at lance. pierce@ffbf.org and request to be put on the mailing list.

County Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) programs are growing in District 6 and elsewhere. Local YF&R committees are a good avenue for young people interested in agriculture to get involved locally. The local committees are a good source of new members as well. Getting on a county Farm Bureau YF&R committee, or starting one, is an excellent way to learn about the issues, help educate people about agriculture, hone your communication and leadership skills and expand your business network.

For information on these matters or other questions you may have, please feel free to call me or send me an e-mail.

ANDY NEUHOFER • FLORIDA FARM BUREAU DISTRICT 6 352.318.2506 | Andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org | www.floridafarmbureau.org

January 2015

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January 2015

CHARLOTTE/DESOTO COUNTY

HARDEE COUNTY

FARM BUREAU

FARM BUREAU

1278 SE US HIGHWAY 31 • ARCADIA, FL 34266

1017 US HIGHWAY 17 N • WAUCHULA, FL. 33873

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 863.494.3636 Charlotte Line: 941.624.3981 • Fax: 863.494.4332

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 863. 773. 3117 Fax: 863. 773. 2369

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President…………....Jim Selph Vice President……….Jeffrey Adams Sec./Treasurer...... Matt Harrison

President……David B. Royal Vice President…Greg L. Shackelford Sec./Treasurer……..Bo Rich

DIRECTORS FOR 2013-2014 Jim Brewer John Burtscher Mike Carter Steve Fussell

Lindsay Harrington Richard E. Harvin Ann H. Ryals Mac Turner

Bryan K. Beswick Ken Harrison

DIRECTORS FOR 2013-2014 Joseph B. Cherry Corey Lambert Daniel H. Smith

Steve A. Johnson Bill Hodge David B. Royal

Greg L. Shackelford Bo Rich Scott Henderson

Federation Secretary Mary Jo Spicer

Federation Secretary Rhonda Willis

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE.SPECIAL AGENTS

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE.SPECIAL AGENTS

Agency Manager: Cameron N. Jolly Agents: Dawn A. Hines, Clint Brown

Agency Manager: N. Jay Bryan Agents: George L. Wadsworth, Jr.

HIGHLANDS COUNTY

MANATEE COUNTY

FARM BUREAU

FARM BUREAU

6419 US HIGHWAY 27 S. • SEBRING, FL 33876

5620 TARA BLVD, STE 101 • BRADENTON, FL 34203

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 863. 385. 5141 • Fax: 863. 385. 5356 Website: www.highlandsfarmbureau.com

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 941-746-6161 • Fax: 941-739-7846 Website: www.manateecountyfarmbureau.org

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President………Doug Miller Vice President…Carey Howerton Secretary………..Frank Youngman Treasurer……..Jeff Williams

DIRECTORS FOR 2014-2015 Sam Bronson Danielle Daum Steve Farr

Charles Guerndt Justin Hood Scott Kirouac Mike Milicevic

Trevor Murph Emma Ezell Trey Whitehurst

President……Gary Reeder Vice President…Jim Parks Secretary……..Ben King Treasurer……..Robert Zeliff

DIRECTORS FOR 2013-2014 Carlos Blanco Gary Bradshaw Jerry Dakin Ralph Garrison

Ken Hawkins Alan Jones Vick Keen Bruce Shackelford

Jim Strickland Hugh Taylor Dan West

Federation Secretary Janet Menges

Federation Secretary Christie Hinson

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE.SPECIAL AGENTS

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE.SPECIAL AGENTS

Agency Manager: Chad D. McWaters Agents: Joseph W. Bullington

January 2015

Agency Manager: Branden Bunch Agents: Doug Dierdorf, Mike Shannon

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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ST. LUCIE COUNTY FARM BUREAU’S

Annual Meeting and Sporting Clays Shoot Matthew and Jenna Hamilton receive the Young Farm Family Award at the 2014 annual meeting from Dave Munyan (L) and Mark Berggren (R)

Mr and Mrs Brantley Schirard Sr. receive the Agriculture Hall of Fame Award from board members at the annual meeting. Dave Munyan (L) Brantley and Mrs. Schirard, Sue Munyan, Mark Berggren, Nick Russakis, Courtney Forget, Mike Adams and insurance agent Earl Gordon.

Mr. and Mrs. Bill Courtney receive the Corporate Shotgun at the 2014 Bryan D. Schirard Memorial Sporting Clays Shoot from Brant Schirard (L) and Mark Berggren (R)

Board or Directors - John Hoblick, Florida Farm Bureau Federation president, Mike Adams, Robby Johnson, Nick Russakis, Rick Vachon, Amber Murphy, Mark Berggren, President St. Lucie County Farm Bureau, Brant Schirard and insurance agent Earl Gordon.

St. Lucie Scholarship - Stephen Schirard receives one of the youth scholarships from Board member Rick Vachon.

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

January 2015

Thank You...

To Highlands County Farm Bureau’s Heritage Sponsors

Please support these businesses!

January 2015

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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55TH ANNIVERSARY Big Bass Tournament Set for February 28th Moore Haven will host the 55th annual Chalo Nitka Big Bass Tournament Saturday, February 28th at Alvin Ward Park.

Purported to be the oldest fishing tournament in Florida, according to Florida Sportsman magazine, the Chalo Nitka Big Bass Tournament hearkens back to the days before the “catch and release” rules were established, when strings of bass an arm length’s across were displayed during the Chalo Nitka Festival itself and live bait was not a dirty word among professional anglers.

The tournament will get underway Feb. 28 from safelight until 1 p.m. Entry fee is $25 per person. There is no age limit, anyone can fish, but each person on the boat must pay the entry fee.

Cash pay-outs are guaranteed. First place is $1000, Second $500, Third $300, down to $50 for seventh place. There’s a mystery gift for Lucky 13th place. The angler weighing in the biggest bass and wearing a 2015 Chalo Nitka t-shirt will win an additional $100. A Critter Division is sponsored by Ahern’s Shell, giving the angler who brings in the largest Mudfish, Garr or Catfish a chance to win $100.

All of the money received for this event is used for event prize payback, polygraph testing, and a portion of all entry fees will be donated to help fund projects for the youth of Glades County.

Entry forms for the Chalo Nitka Big Bass Tournament are available at the EDC Office, (the old Chamber building) 998 US Hwy 27 South, Moore Haven, or online at www.chalonitka.com For more information, contact the EDC at (863) 946-0300.

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January 2015

The outdoors are no longer just for men! Women in the Outdoors, Quail Creek has become Florida’s go-to event for introducing women to the amazing world of nature, hunting, backwoods survival, Florida history and agriculture. Supporting the mission of the National Wild Turkey Federation in upland wildlife habitat conservation in North America, Women in the Outdoors has hosted nearly 4,000 events across the United States and Canada for more than 80,000 female participants.

Bring your friends, reconnect with old ones and meet new ones at Women in the Outdoors, Quail Creek 2014! New classes have been added and your favorites are back again.

Plus, this year’s Friday Night event - Osceolas Under the Oaks - will feature Nashville recording artist Tom Jackson who will perform your favorite country classics and current hits and this year’s live and silent auction will be better than ever. Bring the guys Friday night but leave ‘em at home for all the ladies-only fun on Saturday!

See you at Quail Creek!

Feed, Animal Health, Tack, Fencing Supplies, Archery, Guns & Ammo, Hardware and more...

Tel: 863.675.4240 Fax: 863.675.4278 Brad Murray Manager

281 South Bridge Street Labelle, FL 33935

LabelleRanchSupply.com

January 2015

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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SW FLORIDA GULF COAST

FISHING REPORT

By Captain Chris O’Neill

Winter is here and it’s time to change your tactics both inshore and offshore. Seasonal cold fronts bring us a friendly reminder of how lucky we are to live and enjoy the outdoors here in the Sunshine State. If you have the luxury of going any day of the week, I always try to get a day ahead of an approaching cold front. Mother nature has programmed wildlife to be much better at predicting the weather than our local meteorologists and they will be on the hunt for food just before the arrival of unstable conditions. In areas considered sub-tropical like mid-state and below, fish such as snook get very weary as the water temps drop to near catastrophic temperatures. A prime example was the winter of 2010, when local nightly temps dropped to freezing levels for two consecutive weeks, consequently killing tens of thousands of vulnerable subtropical snook which led to a three-year harvest closure.

My best advice for inshore anglers is to “SLOW DOWN”. Baitfish sources become limited and predator fish slow down to conserve energy and chase food at a much slower pace. During each daily charter onboard the Tail Chaser, it’s not uncommon to spend most of the day using my favorite wintertime lure the Bomber Saltwater Grade Paradise Popper Popping Cork. This lure enables my anglers to present a live shrimp at desired depths and cover plenty of real estate by utilizing the current and winds to move the cork along. The cork also emits a very unique sound when popped on the surface, mimicking a feeding sound that really gets the attention of species like spotted seatrout, redfish, ladyfish, spanish mackerel and others. Artificial lures like soft plastics on a jig head will also do the job during the winter. It’s hard to beat a new penny colored Berkley gulp shrimp slowly presented on a 1/8 ounce jighead across sand holes surrounded by deeper grass flats. Many fish like redfish will camouflage themselves around the slightly deeper

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

perimeter of sand holes, lying in wait for an easy ambush of approaching baitfish.

Nearshore anglers will enjoy the best sheepshead fishing of the year for the next two months as the larger females begin to spawn along the nearshore and inshore structure. Most people consider this species unglamorous but I can honestly say that it’s hard to beat anchoring up on your favorite nearshore reef and catching limitless big sheepshead.

Quality table fare can sometimes be tough during January because of closures, so this hearty toothy creature could be the answer to your neighborhood fish fry. My favorite technique is dropping a knocker style rig with a smaller 2/0 circle hook tied to PENN’s new Spinfisher V 4500 rod/ reel combo. Using a half piece of shrimp versus the entire bait will save you plenty of cleaned hooks and wasted bait. I describe them as striped bait thieves because of their unique ability to steal you’re offering so plan on bringing plenty of bait and terminal tackle when fishing for “sheepies” around structure. Having an electric fillet knife will also help speed up your harvest at the end of your day of catching these armored plated bandits.

Offshore fishing has been excellent this winter. Plenty of species such as grouper move much closer to shore as the water cools and they begin to spawn. Check the latest harvest regulations at www.myfwc. com because many of our local species are closed.

Booking a charter this time of year is a great opportunity to spend the day “catching”.

My company offers inshore and offshore charters with a team of world-class guides to satisfy your private or corporate fishing needs. All of my guests receive complementary Tail Chaser t-shirts as well as the best service in the business.

Captain Chris O’Neill

is a full time fishing guide and host of The Reel Saltwater Outdoors radio show. Captain Chris is regularly seen on TV shows like Big Water Adventures, Florida Sportsman, Mark Sosin’s Saltwater Journal and others. As a retired U.S. Army hovercraft pilot, he has accrued over 25 years of saltwater experience and has targeted gamefish around the globe.

His Reel Saltwater Outdoors Seminar Series has become the largest in the state and he speaks to thousands of anglers annually. His passion for fishing is contagious and you can always expect to have a great adventure when fishing onboard the Tail Chaser.

To book a charter visit www.tailchasercharters. com or www.bocagrandetarpon.com for more information. You can listen to his FISH ON FRIDAY radio show via www.wengradio. com or the WENG app from 4-6pm weekly.

Capt. Chris operates out of the world-class Gasparilla Marina in Placida, FL, just minutes from Boca Grande Pass (the tarpon capital of the world) and Charlotte Harbor.

January 2015

RIDE INTO THE NEW YEAR WITH

RANCH HAND! Why should you install a Ranch Hand on your vehicle?

Ranch Hand provides extraordinary strength and protection for your vehicles and peace of mind that you have done what you can to protect your most precious cargo…

Ranch Hand manufactures heavy duty, high quality Grille Guards, Front End Replacements (Legend Series, Summit Series, Bullnose, and Winch Ready), Back Bumpers, Headache Rack Systems, Bed Rails, Steps, and Toolboxes for Chevy, Ford, GMC, Jeep, Ram, and Toyota trucks and SUVs.

GET ALL YOUR TRUCK ACCESSORIES AT LAYE’S TIRE SERVICE AND BE READY TO TAKE ON ANYTHING IN THE NEW YEAR!

January 2015

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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Operation Outdoor Freedom

BY LEVI LAMBERT

As we step off into a New Year, I would like to say “thank you� to our service men and women on behalf of the Heartland (A Way of Life) team. When I think of service men and women I look beyond our military whom so selfishly put their lives at risk to protect our American way of life.

While those are away from home our communities are blessed to have the uniforms, emergency responders, and dispatchers who are willing to take time away from their holidays to look after our safety and security. So next time you are out and about, be sure to show your appreciation to our veterans, deputies/police, firefighters/paramedics, dispatchers, and Corrections officers. Community service

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

January 2015

positions of this nature take a special person to fulfill the duties on a daily basis and I am grateful for your abilities and strengths.

Remembering to thank who we pass in uniform is only half of the story. Today, I would like to share some a bit more about a wonderful program setup for our service members who have returned home. Our wounded veterans in many cases return to a life very different from that of which they left behind. Operation Outdoor Freedom was designed to provide our wounded veterans with the opportunities to participate in outdoor activities along with their injured comrades.

Opportunities such as fellow wounded soldiers being able to socialize while sitting around a camp fire on Adam Putnam’s ranch after a day of deer hunting is what the program is all about. To place our veterans in an outdoor environment to do and see what our beautiful Florida has to offer is a gift for those involved and a grand experience for our veterans. Ned Waters is the state program coordinator whom I met last year at the Annual Florida Cattlewoman’s Fun shoot held at Quail Creek Plantation. Mr. Waters was participating in the sporting clay shoot with a team from Operation Outdoor Freedom. “We bring wounded veterans together and give them a chance to socialize,” Waters says. “It’s rehabilitative for them to be with people who have had the same experiences and similar injuries as they do.”

January 2015

Since 2010, approximately 700 wounded veterans have participated in more than 200 events, experiencing the natural wonders of Florida and finding common ground with fellow veterans. “We make it possible for wounded veterans in Florida to enjoy outdoor events,” says Ned Waters, state program coordinator for Operation Outdoor Freedom, a recreational program through the Florida Forest Service.

“Anything from hunting and fishing, scalloping, canoeing, camping, anything you can think of, we offer.”

Dedicated members of the Florida Forest Service organize the program with the help of partners such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, state water management districts, the Florida Department of Veteran Affairs, and enthusiastic volunteers. Florida agricultural commodity groups lend their support in the form of local “Fresh From Florida” products. The Florida Beef Council ensures that no matter the outcome of the day’s hunt, there will be succulent steaks for the veterans to enjoy. The joy and freedom that Operation Outdoor Freedom provides wounded war veterans is matched by their gratitude and humility.

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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Holiday Youth Archery Shoot The Seminole Tribe of Florida hosted its 2nd Annual Holiday Youth Archery Shoot at the Fred Smith Rodeo Arena grounds at Brighton on Saturday, December 13th. The competition was open to all youth from 8 to 18 years old, with divisions determined by age and the type of bow used. Field, FITA, and 3-D targets were arranged on three separate ranges allowing contestants to move easily from one range to the next. Results were as follows:

JUNIOR INSTINCTIVE TRADITIONAL:

1st Hazel Rose McCarty - Marion JUNIOR INSTINCTIVE COMPOUND:

1st Carlie Stockenberg - Highlands JUNIOR SIGHTED COMPOUND:

1st Ashlie Parham – Orange 2nd Nicole Beard – Highlands 3rd Clayton Campbell – Highlands 4th Wyatt Hines – Glades 5th Dominic Glarner – Highlands 6th Kevin Trejo – Martin 7th Scott Effland – Martin 8th Carmen Perez - Glades INTERMEDIATE INSTINCTIVE TRADITIONAL:

1st Valholly Frank - Hendry INTERMEDIATE INSTINCTIVE COMPOUND:

1st Cassidy Sharp – Polk 2nd Mackenzie Milkula - Polk

5th Megan Stockenberg – Highlands 6th Shelby Sumner – Okeechobee 7th Alexandra Trejo – Martin 8th Camben Leal – Martin 9th Jordan Perez - Glades SENIOR INSTINCTIVE TRADITIONAL:

1st Rebekh Lopez – Glades 2nd Abigil Agular - Indian River SENIOR SIGHTED COMPOUND:

1st Tanner Boyett – Martin 2nd Raif Prevatt – Glades 3rd Dustin McClelland – Collier 4th Caleb Leal – Highlands 5th Ashley Perdian – Highlands 6th Keith Lewis – Martin 7th Elizabeth Saucedo – Martin 8th Glenn Seemen – Highlands 9th Hope Effland – Martin 10th Patrick Powers - Martin SHOOT-OUT WINNERS:

INTERMEDIATE SIGHTED COMPOUND:

1st Conner Thomas – Glades, 2nd Kerri Thomas – Glades 3rd Lyndsey Perdian – Highlands, 4th John Pearce – Okeechobee

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

Hazel Rose McCarty, Ashlie Parham, Carlie Stockenberg, Valholly Frank, Cassidy Sharp, Kerri Hines, Rebekah Lopez and Tanner Boyett

OVERALL HIGH POINT WINNER:

Tanner Boyett The names of all contestants were placed in a drawing for a new bow, with Patrick Powers and Mackenzie Mikula drawn as the lucky winners.

Special thanks go out to all of the volunteers and to the sponsors who generously donated silent auction items and prizes: Skull Hill Steel Archery, Big Lake Eye Care, Eli’s Trailer Sales, Heartland Periodontics, GHC Motorsports, Clark Pest Control, Century 21 – Hazellief & Prevatt, Everglades Farm Equipment, St. Lucie Battery & Tire, P&L Harvesting, The Gun Shop, Miller Fencing, Free Beer Custom Rods, Garrard’s Bait & Tackle, Lynell Tiger, Hunter’s Den, Spurlow’s Outdoor Outfitters, Glades County Sheriff’s Department, Wells Insurance, and Glisson’s Animal Supply.

January 2015

HIGHLANDS COUNTY CITRUS GROWERS ASSOCIATION

Annual Citrus Sporting Clays Fun Shoot The 17th Annual Highlands County Citrus Growers Association Citrus Sporting Clays Fun Shoot was held on a beautiful day for outdoor recreation. The shoot, held on December 13th at Quail Creek Plantation, saw an event record of 366 shooters take to the two Quail Creek sporting clays courses for a morning of clay target shooting and fellowship, with nearly 50 additional folks joining in for a wonderful Prime Rib & Seafood lunch.

The winner of this year’s Citrus Fun Shoot High Overall Individual Shooter Award, after shooting a score of 99/100 and winning the Red vs. Blue course high scores shoot-off, was Bob Isaly. The individual runner-up award went to Danny Chandler who also shot a 99/100. The High Overall Team, Brandt Consolidated (Charles Lanfier, Keith Starling, Joe Franza & Kenny Hinote) broke 374 out of 400 targets and won the Red vs. Blue course shoot-off, with the team from SunRidge Harvesting (Charlie Wilson, Jason Cloud, Steven Phypers & Ray Broughton) earning 2nd place after also breaking 374 out of 400 targets.

Robin Mixon won the High Overall Ladies’ Award with a score of 90/100. Joe Franza Jr., who had a score of 96/100, won High Overall Youth Award (16 & younger).

Making this great event possible again this year were the shoot’s major sponsors: Alan Jay Automotive Network, The Andersons, Inc. Bayer CropScience, Carden & Associates Crop Insurance, Cowpokes Watering Hole Restaurant, Farm Credit of Florida, Florida Grove Hedgers & Foggers, Magna Bon II LLC, Peace River Citrus Products, and Southeast AgNet/Citrus Industry Magazine.

Nearly one hundred additional Gold, Green Bird Station, Team and Station sponsors, including In the Field Magazine, contributed to providing a great opportunity for our region’s agricultural family to gather and enjoy the camaraderie associated with the Florida citrus industry. Participants also had the opportunity to win thousands of dollars of Raffle and special event Green Bird Station prizes. No one went home hungry and a great time was reported by all that attended.

January 2015

Next year’s HCCGA Citrus Fun Shoot will again be returning to Quail Creek Plantation for all to enjoy on Saturday, December 12, 2015

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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STATE OF FLORIDA Concealed Weapon Licenses Interested in obtaining a Florida Concealed Weapon or Firearm License? Here’s the basic information.

A concealed weapon or firearm license allows individuals with valid licenses to carry weapons or firearms (as defined in Chapter 790, Florida Statutes) concealed on their persons for purposes of lawful self-defense. Applicants must meet both federal and state eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien at least 21 years of age (active or honorably discharged service members can apply at age 18). Applicants must also pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or other disqualifying offenses.

Thanks to legislation passed in the fall of 2014, consumers across the state can now enjoy the convenience of applying for a concealed weapon license at certain County Tax Collector’s offices, including those in Highlands, Indian River, Nassau, Okaloosa, Pinellas counties. More are expected to begin taking applications in 2015.

According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), the convenience of applying at a tax collector’s office will not affect the integrity of the concealed weapon license program. Concealed weapon license applications will continue to be processed and issued solely by the Department. Tax collectors’ offices have been given authority to take applications, photograph and fingerprint applicants, and then send the information securely to FDACS for final determination. All personal identifying information of applicants and licensees will remain confidential and exempt from disclosure as public records (Section 790.0601, Florida Statutes).

It is important to note that laws regulating the possession of firearms vary from state to state. Those travelling should refer to the law of the state where they intend to carry firearms.

Q: What is a concealed weapon or firearm license?

A: A concealed weapon or firearm license (CWL) allows individuals with valid licenses to carry weapons (as defined in Chapter 790, Florida Statutes) or firearms concealed on their persons.

Q: Who can get a concealed weapon license?

A: Requirements are outlined in state law. You must be a U.S. Citizen or legal resident and 21 years of age (service members as defined in Section 250.01, Florida Statutes, and honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces can apply at 18) and meet certain requirements regarding criminal history. Felons are not eligible.

Q: How long does it take to process a license?

A: It may take up to 90 days from the date the complete application is received by the state to process the application and either issue a license or deny the application.

An incomplete application (application not signed, unanswered questions, etc.), not submitting required supporting documents, illegible fingerprint submissions, or an applicant’s criminal history may result in extended processing times.

Q: Where can I apply for a license?

A: Interested individuals can apply by mail or in person at one of eight regional offices located throughout the state, including Punta Gorda and West Palm Beach. In addition, some tax collectors’ offices began accepting applications in 2014, including Highlands, Indian River, Nassau, Okaloosa, and Pinellas counties.

Q: Will people find out I have a license?

A: All personal identifying information of applicants and licensees is confidential and exempt from disclosure as public records. (Section 790.0601, Florida Statutes)

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services manages the state’s concealed weapon or firearm licensing program. For additional information on concealed weapon or firearm licenses, visit www.FreshFromFlorida.com/licensing.

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RURAL PROPERTY GUIDE:

Buyer Tips to Ensure an Intelligent Purchase INVESTING IN RURAL PROPERTY, WHETHER FOR RECREATIONAL OR INVESTMENT PURPOSES, IS MORE POPULAR THAN EVER. THOUGH IN VOGUE, IT’S IMPORTANT, AS A BUYER, TO APPROACH THE PROCESS CAUTIOUSLY TO AVOID IMPULSIVE, REGRETTABLE PURCHASES. To make an intelligent purchase, here are some quick tips: • Do your homework: Research the market and do price comparisons to make sure the property is not over-priced.

Listed prices do not always reflect what properties are really selling at. To ensure you’re getting a fair deal, involve a local realtor in the process.

• Know the infrastructure: Rural land comes with challenges. Often, these properties are without access to city water and sewer services and may have limited or no access to electric, phone, cable television, and high-speed Internet services. Be sure to look into the ins and outs of the property, including road maintenance, trash pickup, and school bus routes.

• Identify potential improvements: Are there existing structures on the property that could be restored economically rather than building new, costly structures?

Do you need to install septic systems and wells? Connect with a local contractor and also, consult your neighbors to determine standard well depth and septic system requirements for the specific soil conditions.

• Investigate codes/restrictions: Make sure you are aware of any restrictions on the land. If there are restrictions, determine if you can deal with them and if so, how you will deal with them. Ask yourself: How will these restrictions impact this rural property and a future sale?

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• Determine insurance rates: It may be harder to receive the coverage you need for your property outside of city limits.

To get appropriate coverage, contact your local realtor or ag lending company for help.

• Know property details. Know your surroundings. Make sure there aren’t potential issues neighboring the property that may impact a future sale. Consider environmental factors. For example, know whether or not you are in an endangered species zone. Also, look into any previous environmental contamination from former owners.

Bottom-line: Know EVERYTHING about your potential land and the land neighboring it.

• Consider ALL costs: Aside from purchase price, consider costs for maintenance and enhancements like fencing, ponds, outbuildings, new appliances, landscaping, equipment, furnishings, and general repairs when you begin to budget and finance your land.

• Consult the experts: Lending companies that specialize in agricultural land loans like AgAmerica understand the intricacies involved in rural land purchases. We can also determine an ag loan type specifically for your rural property purchase.

Bio of Author: Leigh Ann Wynn is the Sr. VP of business development for AgAmerica Lending. Adding mortgage loan originator to her title, Leigh Ann is working with the AgAmerica Lending team to offer low interest ag loans. As an active member of the ag community and a seventh generation in the cattle business, Leigh Ann understands your ag needs and is here to answer your questions. She can be reached at leighann@agamerica.com or (863) 607-9500.

January 2015

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January 2015

Unleashing the Power of Plants Heartland InTheField Magazine

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by Justin Smith CITRUS UPDATE

By Justin Smith

The Citrus Economy The Florida Citrus Industry has long touted itself as a 9 billion dollar industry. But, with all of the disease, the decline in production and the loss of acreage is it really still such an exuberant number or is it just an inflated wish? As the second largest economic contributor to the State these

numbers are kind of important and not just there for the ego of those who are producers. Well, the figures are in and the Florida Citrus Industry does not contribute 9 billion dollars to the economy any longer, in fact it is now $10.68 billion.

But hay, in the citrus business we’re not greedy so we are just going to round down and say we are a 10 and a half billion dollar industry.

The results of the study were extremely surprising to many people as the news was delivered to the Citrus Commission in mid-December. A few of the Commissioners even questioned Alan Hodges over the validity of the numbers. Mr. Hodges is an economist for the University of Florida and has a respected career with Citrus. As a matter of fact he actually stated the industry had surpasses the $10 billion mark 5 years ago. At that time there was much less thought given though, as the industry was struggling and everyone knew production was waning. However, the numbers have shown it once again, so it is time to make the call. Hodges himself was even surprised with the final number and stated he and his team took an entire month to re-check them before the presentation.

The study takes into account not only direct jobs in the industry but support jobs as well. However, the question remains, with the loss of inventory from the grower where is the money coming from to support all of this? The answer to that is in the price increases. Each piece of fruit is now worth a considerable amount more than the same piece was just a few years ago. If a producer can still make a similar quality piece of fruit, as he did before greening, that piece is even more valuable.

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It sounds like the producer is getting rich, but he is actually making less than ever, here is where the economic impact really spikes.

The producer is bringing in as much and sometimes more, than several years ago, with a smaller inventory. However, the costs of producing those pieces of fruit at acceptable quality are almost double what it was. So the farmer is grossing more money than ever, per acre, but putting out an even higher amount than ever, per acre. The results is a greater amount of money exchanging hands but a lower amount left in the producers pocket at the end of the year. All of these dollars moving around just means a citrus grower is now taking a much larger risk than ever before, with a lower payout than ever before.

Numbers don’t lie but they don’t always tell the truth either. What would happen to the Florida economy if a 10 and a half billion dollar industry just went away? Would the State just be able to absorb it? Would there be something else to take its place? Right now the beef industry is promising high returns, but how long will consumers be able to pay higher prices for a hamburger? The risk is going up everywhere and the citrus industry, with the recent economic study, is a prime example of it.

At the end of the day citrus has proven to be a very valuable and important part of the economy. As long as producers can find ways to make citrus grow, it looks like the Florida economy will enjoy its second largest industry being a viable contributor

January 2015

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January 2015

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Heartland InTheField Magazine

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ADAM H. PUTNAM FLORIDA COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE

A

dam Putnam was elected to serve as Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture in 2010 and re-elected in 2014. In this capacity, he oversees the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and serves as a member of Florida’s Cabinet.

Commissioner Putnam’s priorities include fostering the growth and diversification of Florida agriculture; expanding access to Florida’s abundance of fresh produce, seafood and other products; securing a stable, reliable and diverse supply of energy; protecting the quantity and quality of the state’s water supply; and safeguarding consumers from deceptive business practices.

Commissioner Putnam is also focused on creating opportunities for our nation’s wounded veterans to hunt, fish and participate in other outdoor activities on Florida’s public lands. More than 1,000 veterans have enjoyed recreational opportunities on Florida State Forests through Operation Outdoor Freedom, a program of the Florida Forest Service he established in 2011.

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Previously, Commissioner Putnam served five terms as Congressman for Florida’s 12th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He was recognized as a leader on a variety of issues, including water, energy and government transparency and efficiency. Commissioner Putnam was acknowledged for his efforts to bring comprehensive restoration to the Everglades, reform food safety laws, modernize programs to ensure Florida agriculture remains a leader throughout the nation and increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables to counter childhood obesity.

While in Congress, Commissioner Putnam was elected by his peers to serve as the Republican Policy Chairman during the 109th Congress and Chairman of the House Republican Conference for the 110th Congress, the highest elected

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leadership position any Floridian of either party has held in Washington. Commissioner Putnam also served as a member of the House Committees on Government Reform, Agriculture, Rules and Financial Services.

Before he was elected to Congress, Commissioner Putnam served in the Florida House of Representatives from 1996 to 2000. He graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Food and Resource Economics.

Commissioner Putnam is a fifth generation Floridian who grew up in the citrus and cattle industry. He and his wife, Melissa, have four children.

January 2015

DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES The Division of Consumer Services is the state’s clearinghouse for consumer complaints, information and protection. The division regulates various businesses such as; Motor Vehicle Repair Shops, Charitable Organizations, Florida Do Not Call Program, Pawnbrokers, Health Studios, Sellers of Travel, Intrastate Movers, Professional Surveyors and Mappers, Sweepstakes/Game Promotions and Telemarketing. In addition, the division protects consumers from unfair and unsafe business practices across a wide range of products, including gasoline, brake fluid, antifreeze, liquefied petroleum gas, amusement rides and weighing and measuring devices.

Consumer education is the main focus of the division. Along with the information provided through our Communications and Outreach center, which can be reached at 1-800-HELPFLA (435-7352) or 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832) en Español, thousands of educational brochures are distributed each year to individuals, civic groups, community organizations and schools.

REQUEST A SPEAKER We have the latest information on scams and fraudulent schemes that bilk people out of millions of dollars annually.

At your next event or meeting, let one of our representatives educate your group on the latest consumer issues. We can present information about illegal pyramid schemes, how to avoid telemarketing fraud, home employment opportunities and much, much more. We’re here for you and we’re FREE! We believe an educated consumer is the best protection against fraud and deception! To invite a Consumer Services Representative to your next meeting, please complete this speaker request form. Speaking engagements should be requested at least 2-3 months in advance to ensure availability.

ITEMS OF INTEREST • • • • • • • • •

Airbag Recall - Are you at risk?

Scam Alert: Arrest Warrant Scam View Scam Letter Search For Recalls Officials warn drivers of fraudulent SunPass toll violation letter Little Black Book of Scams Avoid Tech Support Phone Scams Unclaimed Property Scams Utility Bill Scam IRS Identifies Charities that Have Lost Tax-Exempt Status

MAILING ADDRESS

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Consumer Services P.O. Box 6700 Tallahassee, FL 32399-6700 January 2015

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Fresh From Florida”

“

SUBMISSION BY COMMISSIONER ADAM H. PUTNAM

F

lorida agriculture has played an important role in Florida’s 500-year history, providing food and fiber for the people of Florida, across the United States and around the world. Today, Florida agriculture has a more than $100 billion impact on our state’s economy and supports jobs for nearly 2 million Floridians. Florida’s farmers produce 300 commodities during our year-round growing season and export them to more than 170 countries and territories around the globe. As Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, one of my most important missions is to strengthen and grow Florida’s agriculture industry.

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Through the “Fresh From Florida” brand, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services works to raise awareness for the high quality products we produce in Florida and promote the sale of Florida commodities. Last year, we launched the first-ever statewide TV marketing campaign to highlight “Fresh From Florida” produce, seafood and more. The ads featured new recipes that consumers can use to make quick, healthy meals for themselves and their families. Just this month, we launched a new “Fresh From Florida” marketing campaign with billboard ads across the state that feature fresh, in season Florida produce. And in 2015, you can expect to see new television advertisements offering simple recipes for every meal of the day.

January 2015

We also continue to promote “Fresh From Florida” products directly to consumers through retail campaigns as well.

We’ve partnered with 52 grocery retail chains with more than 12,000 stores worldwide to market Florida products at point-of-purchase, giving Florida-grown products a competitive advantage over others.

are eligible for incentives to offset a portion of consumer packaging and carton printing costs if the “Fresh From Florida” message is included.

I am confident the new energy behind the “Fresh From Florida” campaign will have a positive impact on Florida’s entire agricultural industry. I encourage Florida’s farmers, growers and ranchers to join the “Fresh From Florida” program to support our efforts, as well as reap the benefits of these recharged and exciting new programs.

I value your partnership with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and your continued support for our efforts.

To learn more about the “Fresh From Florida” program and view the latest advertisements, visit www.FreshFromFlorida.com.

Florida growers who participate in the “Fresh From Florida” program benefit from more than the advertisements and partnerships. Members of the “Fresh From Florida” program can also display the widely-recognized logo on product packaging and signage. The logo associates the products with Florida agriculture’s worldwide image of high quality.

Many point-of-purchase and retail display materials to promote Florida products are available for free to “Fresh From Florida” program members. Furthermore, members January 2015

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WITH INCREASED TRADE, COMES NEW THREATS SUBMISSION BY COMMISSIONER ADAM H. PUTNAM

O

ur economy is more global than ever. Boundaries, currencies and cultures are no longer impediments to the exchange of goods, services and ideas. New technologies and innovations in transportation have helped us break down these barriers to trade, and the expansion of the Panama Canal, which is expected to be completed in 2015, will further expand opportunities for global trade.

The expansion of the Panama Canal is a game changer in global trade logistics. The newly constructed, larger locks will enable post-Panamax ships, with more than double the cargo capacity, to pass through the canal. The exponential growth in trade that will inevitably follow will provide tremendous opportunity for the state and Florida’s more than $100 billion agriculture industry, but it also presents an increased risk to Florida agriculture.

Over the years, Florida has earned the reputation as an invasive pest and disease hotbed. Florida’s warm climate, nearly 100 million visitors a year and growth in international trade have all contributed to the problem. Unwelcome pests like the giant African land snail, a snail the size of a human hand that feeds on structures and 500 varieties of plants, or the Asian citrus psyllid, a tiny insect that spreads citrus greening, are examples of invasive pests that present serious threats to Florida agriculture.

One of the many ways the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is working to protect Florida agriculture from pests and disease, while supporting

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increased international trade, is through a partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection. Currently, imports of fresh fruits and vegetables from certain countries are prohibited from entering the United States through Florida ports due to significant risk of introducing pests and disease. Through our partnership with USDA and DHS, however, we’ve developed a pilot program that allows specific produce from certain countries to enter Florida ports after receiving cold treatment to prevent the entry of pests and disease.

The cold treatment brings produce down to low temperatures for an extended period of time in order to eliminate any invasive pests that may have accompanied the produce shipments. This pilot program, which began in October 2013, is a great example of how we can work together to protect our domestic food supply from the threat of invasive pests.

If we can effectively eliminate invasive pests from shipments of produce, South Florida ports will be able to accommodate new products that were previously restricted to ports in the Northeast.

I take my responsibility to protect and grow Florida’s agriculture industry very seriously, so I have personally traveled to Panama, and other department leaders have traveled to Peru, to evaluate the progress and effectiveness of the pilot program. After these visits, and more than a year into the pilot program, I am confident we can aggressively protect Florida and the nation’s agriculture industry while capitalizing on opportunities to further expand Florida’s international trade in this increasingly global economy.

January 2015

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FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE “Agriculture is a pillar of Florida’s economy. It generations more than $100 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 2 million jobs. In fact, Florida agriculture ranks number 1 in the value of production in many commodities. This means Florida agriculture is not only helping to feed the Florida and the U.S. – but it’s helping to feed the world.”

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Beef Feeds

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800-343-8474 (863) 763-6905 • Fax (863) 763-6264 Jay Walpole, Owner

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Danny Walpole, Manager

January 2015

It’s Fair Season!

It is estimated that over 5 million people attend Florida fairs and livestock shows each year. Complete with food and fun for all ages, these events offer a perfect opportunity to showcase many of our local and regional traditions.

Along with those opportunities comes the responsibility of keeping both spectators and participants safe, whether it be on the midway or in a designated livestock area. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) partners with Florida’s fairs and the livestock community to provide more than agricultural education – they also work to improve the safety of the fairs.

According to Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam, each year the Department conducts about 9,500 inspections of amusement rides at permanent parks and seasonal fairs to help create a safe environment for Florida’s residents and visitors. In addition, FDACS Division of Animal Industry regulates the entry of many livestock and poultry breeds and most exotic species into Florida as well as at various shows and exhibitions in the state.

According to FDACS, Florida is home to over 26 million poultry, 1.5 million beef cattle, 500,000 horses, 140,000 dairy cattle, 100,000 swine, 30,000 goats, 10,000 sheep, and millions of companion animals. The number and diversity of animals in our state, not to mention their significant impact on the economy, requires strict monitoring in order to protect both animal and human health.

January 2015

Many species are required to have a current Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), commonly referred to as a “health certificate” in order to even be unloaded at a public facility. A CVI is a document signed by a veterinarian with appropriate state licenses and federal credentials stating that the animal has been examined, is healthy and is not showing signs of a contagious disease. An eCVI is an electronic version of the Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and can also be accepted. FDACS animal health inspectors can be found bleeding poultry, checking rabbits for pests or other signs of illness, and verifying Coggins papers on horses, prior to their exhibition or competition at public events.

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67TH ANNUAL CHALO NITKA FESTIVAL March 6-7 in Moore Haven

The 67th annual Chalo Nitka Festival kicks off Saturday, March 7 at 10 a.m. with the parade, from Riverside Drive along Avenue J, followed by the opening of the festival grounds on Tenth Street at 11 a.m

CHALO NITKA FRONTIER DAYS RODEO

The Chalo Nitka Festival and Ranch Rodeo kicks off in Moore Haven Friday, March 6th and Saturday, March 7th.

For more information, contact the EDC at (863) 946-0300 or visit www.chalonitka.com.

THE CHARLOTTE COUNTY FAIR

The Charlotte County Fair will be held, January 30, 2015 – February 8, 2015. For vendor information call 941.629.4252 or visit www.thecharlottecountyfair.com

62ND DESOTO COUNTY FAIR AND LIVESTOCK SHOW

Our 2015 County Fair and Livestock Show Dates are January 16-25, 2015.

DeSoto County Fair Association, Inc. PO Box 970, Arcadia, FL 34265 (863) 494-5678

HARDEE COUNTY FAIR February 14 -21, 2015

For more information visit: www.hardeecountyfair.org

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January 2015

HENDRY COUNTY FAIR AND LIVESTOCK SHOW INC. February 13 – 21, 2015

For more information visit: www.hendrycountyfair.com

HIGHLANDS COUNTY FAIR February 6 - 14, 2015

Be sure to check out their website for more information Contact-- Office: (863) 382-2255 or www.hcfair.net 781 Magnolia Avenue, Sebring, Florida 33870

LEE COUNTY FAIR

February 26 - March 8, 2015 91st Annual Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair!

Be sure to check the website for upcoming calendar and events at fair.leeciviccenter.com

MANATEE COUNTY FAIR January 15–25, 2015 “Put Some AG In Your CULTURE!”

www.manateecountyfair.com Information Line: (941)722-8951 Phone: (941)722-1639 Fax: (941)722-5054

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY FAIR March 10- 15, 2015

Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center & Fairgrounds 4601 Highway 710E, Okeechobee, Florida 34972 863-467-1690 Be sure to take a look at the website for updates www.okeechobeecountyfair.com

OKEECHOBEE LIVESTOCK SHOW March 7-12

Okeechobee Agri Center www.okeechobeeyouthlivestockshow.com

ST. LUCIE COUNTY FAIR February 27- March 8, 2015

St. Lucie County Fair Grounds 15601 W Midway Rd Fort Pierce, FL 34945 Phone: (772) 464-2910 www.stluciecountyfair.org January 2015

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The Florida Smokey Bear Forest Service 70th Birthday The Florida Forest Service (FFS) consists of more than 1250 dedicated employees with the mission to protect and manage the natural resources of Florida, ensuring that they are available for future generations. Wildfire suppression and prevention are key components in our efforts to protect homeowners from the threat of damage in a natural, firedependent environment. We are dedicated to training individuals to meet these goals. In addition to managing over one million acres of state forests for multiple public uses including timber, recreation and wildlife habitat, we also provide services to landowners throughout the state with technical information and grant programs. The Florida Forest Service’s forestry programs are implemented by its field operations staff within 15 field units across the state. Field personnel and equipment provide a more responsive and comprehensive approach to land management and wildfire control statewide.

Please visit our website for more information on Tree Seedlings For Purchase, Wildfire Prevention, Smokey Bear Programs, Prescribed Burning, Burning Authorizations, Recreational Opportunities in Florida’s Forest and so much more.

Smokey Bear celebrated his 70th Birthday this year. His birthday celebration was held at the Turner Agri-Civic Center in beautiful Arcadia Florida. The celebration was on November 22nd 2014 and had a wonderful attendance. People of all ages came to enjoy the festivities and celebrate with Smokey. The activities were merged with the Desoto county AgFest in the Florida Forest Service display area and included A “LIVE FIRE DEMONSTRATION” complete with a Florida Forest Service Helicopter and other firefighting equipment. Smokey was available for pictures and made appearances throughout the day. The celebration also included over 300 cupcakes that were donated by the local Win-Dixie store in Arcadia and were handed out to the public that attend the celebration. Florida Forest Service employees were also on hand to provide information on wildfire prevention, outdoor burning and many other services that the Florida Forest service has to offer.

It was a great birthday celebration for Smokey and display of the local Florida Forest Service firefighting equipment and personnel . Smokey will continue helping keep our forest safe and working with the public for many years to come. Thank you to all of those that attended and helped make his Birthday a success. Happy 70th Birthday SMOKEY BEAR!

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Florida Forest Service, 3125 Conner Blvd. Tallahassee, FL 32399-1650. Phone (850) 681-5800 Fax (850) 681-5801 FFSsupport@FreshFromFlorida.com

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January 2015

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DOMER’S INC. HAVING THE DISTINCTION OF BEING THE OLDEST CONTINUALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BUSINESS IN OKEECHOBEE, DOMER’S INC. HAS BECOME A LOCAL INSTITUTION.

BY ROBBI SUMNER

DOMER’S 1926

DOMER’S TRUCK DOMER’S IN THE 1960S As documented in the handwriting of Russell Domer, the Domer family first ventured to Okeechobee in 1925. The area was being promoted as the “Future Chicago of the South” and Russell’s father Victor, who had migrated from Ohio to West Palm Beach earlier in the 1920s, was curious to see this promising area. After their visit, he moved his family to Okeechobee in December of 1925 and put down roots that continue to grow strong today.

Victor was quite a fix-it man, with talents that included watch making and repair, locksmith, gunsmith, and auto mechanic.

According to Russell, “The town lacked these talents and his abilities were very soon recognized,” thus the humble beginnings of Domer’s Inc., in a small shop that Victor built beside their home on 10th Avenue.

Russell spent a great deal of time with his father and acquired many of his father’s skills. He purchased the business from Victor in 1957 and made his own name, becoming particularly skilled in the making of custom livestock brands. In fact, he and his brands were featured in a 1974 Florida Cattlemen’s Association magazine article.

RUSSELL WITH A FEW OF HIS BRANDS

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In 1978, Russell’s son Ray purchased the business, further continuing the family traditions which included not only strong business ethics, but a mind for community involvement as well. In addition to being active in their church and other civic activities, Victor and Russell both served as Okeechobee City Councilmen in their time. Ray served on the Board of Okeechobee County Commissioner’s from 2004 until his January 2015

unexpected passing in August of 2014. Ray’s sons Justin and Jacob are now the fourth generation of Domer men at the helm of the 89-year old business, and are working to purchase the business from their mom, as it has passed through the generations before them. Justin is largely involved with managing the office affairs, marketing, and community involvement while Jacob is focused on managing the shop. “I pretty much grew up here,” Jacob shares. “I started helping Dad sweep when I was four-years old and he started teaching me to weld and drill wells when I was eight.” The two brothers work together closely to carry on the principles that have sustained the business through many economic ups and downs. “When times get tough people get repairs rather than buying new,” Justin points out, and Domer’s is in the unique position to offer both repairs and new items.

Domer’s Inc. encompasses all three segments of the family business: the retail store, machine shop, and outside service.

They offer sales, installation, and service for commercial, residential, industrial and agricultural needs. Specialty items designed and built through the years by Victor, Russell and Ray include Domer’s Choppers, the “Domer Special” mower, multi-stage turbine pumps, both high and low-lift irrigation pumps, and livestock brands. Other popular items offered include branding pots and horn burners, drive shaft components, trailer components, and a multitude of hard-tofind hardware. Their services are equally varied ranging from hydraulic hoses “made in minutes” to water treatment system installation and service.

Just as each generation before them has made its mark on the business, Justin and Jacob have their own plans to grow Domer’s along with Okeechobee and the surrounding communities. While they already serve a large portion of the Heartland region, there is talk of expansion in the form of adding a second location in the not-so-distant future.

JACOB, RAY, CINDY AND JUSTIN

“Agriculture is the number-two revenue generating industry in Florida. When the economy turns down and luxuries go away you still have to eat. We’d like to be in a position to serve customers in a greater geographical area,” the brothers shared.

According to Justin, “My dad always told us that business is more than the exchange of goods and services for money; it is about building and sustaining relationships.” Those relationships are embodied in the long-term employees of Domer’s, including one who has been there for over 30 years.

It is also demonstrated by the customers who often drop by just to catch up and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the shop.

If you’re not already familiar with Domer’s, stop by the shop, still located at 204 SE 10th Avenue in Okeechobee or follow them on Facebook.

January 2015

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THE UF/IFAS ONA CATTLE RANGE STATION

BY KATHY GREGG

The University of Florida has a real gem in its IFAS facility located in southwestern Hardee County, off County Road 663 – known as the Ona Cattle Range Station.

It was established in 1941, and contained 5 or 6 houses originally, with several of them still in use. Back then there was open grazing of cattle. Then came the fence laws, and the need for improved pastures became even more important.

The contributions of Dr. Elver Hodges, the original forage agronomist for the Center, are innumerable. (Dr. Hodges turned 102 last August, and still resides in nearby Wauchula.)

I was given an extensive tour of the grounds by Ms. Andrea Dunlap, who is the Education/Media Coordinator for the facility. We stopped at the Weed and Grass Demonstration Area, where there are “samples” of the various types of weeds that are prevalent in Florida, as well as the various grass types grown here. Adjacent to the Area is a small building for seminars or group talks. We stopped at “the 30 Acres” – which is divided into various sections for the different projects. The remnants of a perennial peanut study, a study of weeds, and a sorghum grass study (being conducted by a visiting research student) were all visible.

The greenhouse is run by Dr. Brent Sellers, where various grass varieties are tested. It is climate-and-light-controlled, and the watering is also done by timers. We visited the Farm

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Side of the Center, which is in control of mowing, spraying, fencing and the cattle. That’s where the “Motel 6” is located – a feedlot-like area where they keep 1-2 animals per pen, and they can monitor their feed intake, do blood tests, and the like.

We visited the various herds of cattle located on the almost 3,000 acres. There is a small herd of purebred Brahman cattle, the herd of Brafords which now counts almost 700 head from the original 200 that were donated by Alto Adams (of the Adams Ranch) to the Center back in the 1980’s, and the famous white angus herd. Angus are traditionally black in color, but this herd has been crossbred such that they are ¾ black angus, retaining the best qualities of that breed, January 2015

but having white coats, which makes it easier for them to withstand the Florida heat. Then came the heifers, who were quite curious about us. In amongst them was the cutest little brown-and-white faced calf!

They have recently opened a hunting section, where visiting persons can hunt deer, wild hog, and turkeys, including a camp where they stay. The Graduate Residence (which was the first of the improvements completed after Hurricane Charley, and was fully funded by the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation) is their pride and joy, housing graduate students from around the country and the world. It houses four women and four men, and is usually at capacity. Presently researchers from Brazil are there, but the past has seen students from India and Africa. They can be students in a degree program, doing a particular research project, or PhD students who are inbetween degrees, staying the length of their project, or from four months to a year.

The Center hosted an Open House and Donor Recognition Reception on the evening of November 20, 2014, as part of the dedication of the Grazinglands Education Building.

After light hors d’oevres and drinks, Dr. John Arthington, who is the Center Director and Professor of Beef Cattle Management, began the various presentations. Also speaking were Christy Chiarelli, Director of External Affairs and Development at

January 2015

the UF/IFAS Development Office, Heather Nedley of the Mosaic Co., and then Jim Strickland of the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation. They all spoke of the “Campaign for Ona”, through which the Center is seeking gifts to both increase present endowments and create new ones.

They then left Jim Handley loose with a pair of scissors, as he did the honors of cutting the orange-and-blue streamers used as the ribbon for the Grazinglands Education Building.

Handley is the Executive Vice President of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, and he was joined by Diana Youmans and Heather Nedley of the Mosaic Co., Dr. John Arthington, Director of the Center, and Jim Strickland of the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation.

The evening concluded with a delicious steak dinner, served

by University of Florida students. Attendees were Dr. Hodges, many Florida cattlemen, current and former employees of the facility, several members of the Mosaic Co. Foundation, Caroline Hendry Wyatt, Hardee County Extension Agent, and many others.

The Center hosts various events, including a Pasture Weed Day, an annual Youth Field Day, and a Cattle and Forage Field Day (every 18 months). The Cattle and Forage Field Day will be the spring one, on April 9th, at the Center. The next Youth Field Day will be June 15th. Invited to attend are kids of all ages

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for an informative and fun day of agriculturerelated activities. Schools are welcome if they wish to bring a group, and some have come in the past from as far away as Miami, and North Florida and Georgia. (Contact Ms. Dunlap at dunlap73@ufl.edu or (863) 735-1314 for more information or registration information.)

Having done birding and bird photography for the past 15 years, I was most excited by all of the winter avian visitors that I spotted, including a Wilson’s snipe (a species that I have never seen before)! You never know what one of these trips will bring!

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55

Miss Rodeo Florida 2014

Devon Haley Firestone ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHY GREGG

T

he State of Florida has been blessed this past year to have had as its ambassador in the rodeo world the lovely and vivacious Devon Haley Firestone! I have known this wonderful young lady since photographing her as a contestant in the Combee Youth Rodeo Association, in Lakeland, back in 2007.

That was the year she was also voted as the Combee Rodeo Princess, thus beginning her career as a rodeo queen. There she competed regularly in the barrel racing, pole bending and goat-tying events.

Having graduated from Zephyrhills High School with the class of 2011, Devon is presently a student at St. Petersburg College, majoring in animal science. The fact that she has been able to keep up with her studies while maintaining her high grades, with the demands placed on her this past year, is a tribute to her capabilities. In her “spare” time, she enjoys soaking up Florida’s sunshine and exercising, and she also raises purebred French Bulldogs.

Devon was pleased to be able to use her new position to promote her platform, Diabetes Awareness, which is a close personal issue to her and her family. In doing so, she has worked side-by-side with 8-Time PRCA World Champion Team Roper Joe Beaver, in his Bold Enough to Wear Blue campaign, which he formed to help raise diabetes awareness. (Fortunately for us here in the Heartland, Joe and his wife Jenna, a WPRA barrel racer, have recently relocated to Okeechobee.)

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Her mom is Rickie Firestone, and when asked where her inspiration comes from, there is no hesitation as Devon will tell you “My Mom has been the most motivated, determined and persistent person I know. I am the lady I am today because of her, and I am so thankful for that.” Rickie travels with Devon to as many events as she can fit in around her full-time job.

Devon has participated in PRCA rodeos, parades, school visits, and community events to promote rodeo and the western way of life, where she has worked to inspire children and adults alike about the great sport of rodeo. She decided to expand upon this list, and has also been seen at ranch rodeos and other agricultural events around the State. We had an absolute blast in March at her favorite -- the Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo, where the Shoot-Out Gang invited Devon to become one of the Wild West women – she even got to wield a 6-shooter, and to flirt with the outlaw in jail!

In July, Devon attended the Snake River Stampede, where she got to know Miss Rodeo New Mexico, and to spend time with Miss Rodeo Idaho, Hali Stutzman. From there, she and Hali drove to the Cheyenne Frontier Days – they attended more pancake breakfasts in those three weeks than most of us do in a year’s time! They did a fly by at the track in front of the Grandstand, and then were introduced at the Florida Georgia Line concert (now I am really jealous!), where they were joined by Miss Rodeo Georgia.

January 2015

From November 30 – December 6, Devon will be competing in the Miss Rodeo America pageant at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which coincides with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo held there. There are 32 contestants in the pageant, including from Alaska and Hawaii. The daily schedule is a grueling one, where they not only have the competition requirements, but also meetings, meals and meet-and-greets with just about everyone from the rodeo world. And all the while they must sport their beautiful smiles, and keep up that big rodeo queen hair!

Here’s wishing the Best of Luck to you, Devon, to bringing the title of Miss Rodeo America back to your great State of Florida!

(But if you don’t, we are all winners for knowing you as we do – and how many people can say that they know a blonde whose hobby is tracing bucking bull bloodlines!)

Find Us on

January 2015

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United Way Campaign Chairs Jennifer and Steve Lafferty invite you to the

January 16, 17 ! 18

Celebrate Your Love alentine s ala

FRIDAY, January 16, 7PM and SATURDAY, January 17, 2PM OPEN RODEO SUNDAY, January 18, 12PM Junior/Peewee RODEO $12.00 (13+OVER) • KIDS $5.00 Events Listed Online at www.LeeCountyPosse.com Open Call In January 6th, 6:30pm 239-543-4123 Youth Call In January 8th, 6:30pm 239-462-1042 LEE COUNTY POSSE ARENA 17401 Palm Creek Drive, North Fort Myers 33917 Exit 143 off I-75 • 2 Miles East on Bayshore Road

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January 2015

The work we do at Mosaic is critical to helping feed the world. We provide farmers with phosphate crop nutrients that enable them to produce more food on less land.

IMAGINE A WORLD WITH HALF AS MUCH FOOD. Without crop nutrients, that would be our reality.

Essential crop nutrients — like phosphate mined and manufactured in Florida — are responsible for 40-60 percent of the crop yields farmers produce worldwide.* That translates into more abundant and affordable food here at home. As our world keeps growing, Mosaic keeps working to help put food on the table, for all of us.

We help the world grow the food it needs. ®

mosaicco.com/florida *

Source: Agronomy Journal

January 2015

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The Florida Farm to School Program: Connecting Farms and Schools and Educating Communities

BY DIXIE THOMAS

WHAT IS THE FARM TO SCHOOL PROGRAM? How can Florida farmers find more local markets for their produce, and how can Florida schools locate and receive fresh local produce, all through a single program? The Florida Farm to School program helps to connect Florida schools and local farmers in a partnership that supports local farmers, local produce, education, and good nutrition.

Florida school districts spend millions of dollars each year on produce, but by connecting with local farmers through the Farm to School program, schools are able to find and buy fresh, local fruits and vegetables directly from Florida farmers. Such a partnership allows more dollars to stay in the Florida economy and saves money for both schools and farmers by reducing transportation costs. The Farm to School program also helps to educate students and communities about nutrition and agriculture.

HOW THE PROGRAM BEGAN Florida’s Farm to School program was initiated by a group of farmers who formed the New North Florida Cooperative Association Inc. (NNFC) in 1995. The NNFC began selling produce to the Gadsden County school district during the

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1996-1997 school year and has since expanded. NNFC now serves as a council that connects farms and schools. Recently, a chain of events on the legislative level have opened up the doors for the Florida Farm to School program to develop even further. In 2010, congress created a mandate that required fresh fruits to be available every day in public schools. As a result, the demand for fresh fruits and vegetables on school menus has increased significantly. In addition, under the leadership of Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, the responsibility for Florida’s school food and nutrition program was transferred from the Department of Education to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services in 2012. Adam Putnam has made nutrition for Florida children a priority, saying “I believe we can establish a foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating if we incorporate more wholesome foods, many of which are grown right here in Florida, into the meals kids eat at school.”

A TOOL FOR EDUCATING Educating students and communities about nutrition and agriculture has also been an important role for the Florida Farm to School program. Through the program, students are able to take taste tests of food, develop school gardens and composting programs, and visit farms for farm tours. These initiatives help students better understand where January 2015

their food comes from and how food choices affect their health, environment, and community, while also supporting local farmers. School gardens are a great way for students to actually see how fruits and vegetables grow and learn about growing seasons. School gardens may be used for learning about agriculture and science, and can compliment learning in other subjects, including math, language arts, and health/ nutrition. The Farm to School program recently introduced the Golden Shovel Awards, which recognize outstanding school gardens that have been developed during the school year. Schools can win awards in five different categories including Best New Garden, Best Revitalized Garden, Most Creative Learning Environment, Best Use of Produce, and Longest Sustained Garden. This year, 2015, will be the first year the Golden Shovel Awards will be awarded.

INNOVATIONS IN THE PROGRAM Connecting farms and schools in a partnership and helping improve children’s nutrition and understanding of agriculture are primary goals of the Farm to School program; however, the movement to accomplish these goals has been met with challenges. Yet, for these challenges the program has developed practical innovations such as using a calendar for school cafeterias that educate schools about growing seasons, and using technology and social media.

Robin Safley, director of the Division of Food, Nutrition, and Wellness with the State Agriculture Department, recognized a critical factor in making the program work: helping schools understand the growing seasons of produce.

One of the initial problems with the program resulted from schools and cafeterias not understanding growing seasons and ordering fruits and vegetables not in season in Florida.

Consequently, schools and cafeterias had to order produce from outside of Florida, therefore defeating one of the major purposes of the program. As a solution, Safely assembled a network of people, including school district leaders, farmers, food distributors, and representatives of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable association; through the collaboration of this network, a statewide plan was created for sales and distribution of produce on a monthly schedule--based on growing seasons in Florida.

to engage students in competitions to earn points by eating healthy menu items. Audubon Park Elementary School in Orlando was one of the first schools to try out these apps and use them for competitions.

Schools throughout Florida are becoming more involved in the Farm to School program. The Sarasota County School District is an excellent example, as the district has committed to purchasing at least 50 percent of their produce from local farmers. Englewood Elementary of Sarasota County has several school gardens, and also held a Farm to School celebration in October 2013. The school invited several local farmers to take part in the celebration, including Dale McClellan of M&B Dairy in Lecanto, Glenn Peachey of Peachey Dairy Farm in Myakka City, and David Fleming of Jones Potato Farm in Parrish. The Farmers brought a tractor, produce, and a two day-old dairy calf to show the children.

HOW FARMERS CAN GET INVOLVED The Florida Farm to School program has created the Florida Food Connect website (http://flfoodconnect.com) where buyers (schools) and sellers (farmers) can connect. Farmers can create a profile indicating what they have available for sale, then buyers can contact farmers who have what they are looking to purchase. Farmers can also sign up to receive email notifications which provide information about the produce needs of schools from the state of Florida. The Fresh From Florida website gives farmers guidelines and directions on how to get involved.

The Florida Farm to School Program continues to connect farmers and schools and to educate children and communities about nutrition and Agriculture. To learn more about the Florida Farm to School Program, visit the web page at www.

FreshFromFlorida.com.

Another challenge the program has faced is simply getting the healthy food from student’s plates to their mouths. Though the produce is on their plates, students may not choose to eat it. But a recent innovation called Nutrislice is encouraging students across Florida to put their forks to their mouths.

Nutrislice is an interactive app for smart phones and tablets that features detailed information about school menus.

The app allows students to rate the food on a scale of one to five stars, and this information is provided to the school district to procure future menus. Another app developed by Nutrislice is called Taste Test Pro, which uses social media January 2015

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cooking demonstrations and educating children on the value of healthy food choices and proper nutrition.

Justin’s philosophy about food is a simple one: “Cooking should always be fun, simple, and flavorful.” He always keeps nutrition in mind and enjoys cooking with fresh, local and regionally grown or harvested foods.

CHEF JUSTIN Chef Justin is the resident chef on the award-winning television series “How to Do Florida.” Each exciting, fastpaced 30-minute episode of “How to Do Florida” features multiple destinations in the Sunshine State, two unique howto features, and a Florida cooking segment meant to inspire consumers to take advantage of Florida’s edible bounty.

Justin was raised in Florida and was exposed at an early age to many cultures and cuisines from this diverse part of the country. His straightforward approach to cooking relies on simple ingredients combined with fresh seasonal produce and is a model for the new American cook.

Through apprenticeship, certification, practical experience and a natural passion for food and people, Chef Justin is constantly working to improve the way we eat. His teaching efforts culminate with the preparation and cooking of his healthy and innovative dishes, but the foundation of all his efforts begin with the farm. Agriculture and the growing seasons are the primary inspirations behind his unique creations.

Chef Justin’s broad background includes being an event chef for NASCAR, PGA and the Kentucky Derby, as well as working nationally and internationally for premier hospitality and catering companies. Currently Chef Justin serves as the Culinary Ambassador and State Chef for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

As Executive Chef for the department’s Division of Marketing and Development, Justin’s responsibilities include promoting Florida’s many outstanding commodities, creating new recipes, attending trade events around the world, performing

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Honey Orange Glazed Florida Grouper INGREDIENTS: • 1 tablespoon honey • 1 tablespoon orange marmalade • 1 tablespoon orange juice • 3/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/2 teaspoon light soy sauce • 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper • 3/4 pound grouper fillets DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat broiler.

2. Combine all ingredients except grouper, mixing well.

3. Place fillets on an oiled broiler pan and brush fillets with honey glaze to cover.

4. Broil 5 to 6 inches from heat for 4 to 5 minutes until browned.

5. Turn fillets, brush with honey glaze and broil additional 5 minutes or until fish flakes easily.

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5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

When the shrimp are completely cool, strain them and put them into a medium-sized mixing bowl.

Add the citrus, sweet pepper, red onion, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro and avocado.

Season the ingredients to taste with salt and pepper.

Stir to combine ingredients.

Serve ceviche with chips.

Cooked Florida Pink Shrimp and Citrus Ceviche Ingredients: • 1 pound large Florida pink shrimp, peeled and deveined with the tail on • 2 tablespoons seafood boil seasoning • 2 Florida pink grapefruit, peeled and segmented, seeds removed • 3 Florida tangelos, peeled and segmented, seeds removed • 3 Florida tangerines, peeled and segmented, seeds removed • 1 Florida sweet pepper, diced • 1 red onion, diced • 1 tablespoon olive oil • • • • •

3 limes, juiced ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1 large Florida avocado, peeled, pitted and diced Sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste 1 bag plantain chips or tortilla chips

Directions: 1. Fill a medium-sized sauce pot 3/4 the way with water, and heat over medium-high.

2. Add the seafood seasoning to the boiling pot of water.

3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until completely done.

4. As soon as the shrimp are done, plunge them into an ice water bath to stop the cooking and cool them off.

January 2015

Florida Stone Crab Claws with Key Lime Mustard Dipping Sauce INGREDIENTS: • 3 pounds stone crab claws, medium sized • 1 cup low-fat mayonnaise • 5 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard • 4 Key limes (or two regular limes), juiced • sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste DIRECTIONS: 1. Crack claws using a wooden hammer or a seafood cracker; remove shell and movable pincer leaving meat attached to the remaining pincer.

2. Set aside and keep refrigerated until use.

3. In a small bowl combine the mayo, Dijon and lime juice.

4. Taste the mustard sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

5. Serve stone crab claws with the mustard sauce

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January 2015

BUY FRESH FROM FLORIDA The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services maintains a list of community farmers’ markets throughout Florida, but, because community farmers’ markets are not required to register with the department, the list is not a complete one. Being listed does not imply that a market is endorsed, approved or otherwise sanctioned by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

COMMUNITY FARMERS’ MARKETS Community farmers’ markets are a distinct part of American culture and a unique feature of many Florida towns and cities.

Each farmers’ market reflects the area’s charm with locally produced specialties -- such as fruits, vegetables, nursery stock and other products -- for sale directly to the public.

Most community farmers’ markets are open on a seasonal basis. Each retail farmers’ market in Florida is independent and establishes its own vendor rules and regulations.

Vendors at community farmers’ markets in select Florida counties participate in the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP), which provides WIC participants with coupons that can be used to purchase locally grown, fresh Florida fruits and vegetables. This produce can be purchased at authorized farmers’ markets from April 1 to July 31.

January 2015

U-PICK FARMS Some farms allow visitors to hand-pick their own fresh fruits and vegetables. This form of direct marketing offers consumers the freshest produce at lower prices. Some of the more popular U-pick crops in Florida include blueberries, strawberries, grapes, peaches, citrus, sweet corn and tomatoes. But there are also opportunities to pick more unusual items, everything from persimmons and chestnuts to star fruit and avocados.

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COTTAGE FOODS

COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE (CSAs)

During the 2011 Legislative Session, the Florida Legislature enacted House Bill 7209 allowing individuals to manufacture, sell and store certain types of “cottage food” products in an unlicensed home kitchen. The Cottage Food law became effective on July 1, 2011. To better assist prospective cottage food operators, the Division of Food Safety (Division) created a draft guidance document which contains more detailed information regarding cottage food requirements. The division plans to update this document as further information becomes available, so please check back often!

CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture) are gaining momentum, fueled by an increasing demand for local food and a desire to reconnect with nature and the farmers who grow the crops. Basically, CSAs are a partnership between farmers and consumers. In conventional agriculture, the farmer bears all the risk of production, but CSAs allow farmers to share farming’s risks and rewards with consumers.

CSAs revolve around a community of people who pledge their financial support to a farm. At the beginning of the growing season, members pay a fee to cover the cost of the farm’s operations and the farmer’s salary. In return, each member receives a weekly share of the farm’s bounty, typically a box that might include fresh vegetables, herbs, fruit, honey, eggs and meat. For farmers, CSAs offer a fair, steady source of income and a way to revitalize the small family farm.

Consumers get fresh produce grown in a sustainable manner by someone they know and trust.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services maintains a list of CSAs throughout Florida, but, because CSAs are not required to register with the department, the list is not a complete one. Being listed does not imply that a CSA is endorsed, approved or otherwise sanctioned by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

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January 2015

!

Saturday, January 31 Sun ’N Lakes Golf Course

Registration 7:30 AM Shotgun Start 8:30 AM Lunch Following Play Cigars Available for Purchase by Bebe’s Tobacco • Raffles & Mulligans • Awards, 50/50 & Fun! • $65/player • • • •

Ladies & Gents, Sign Up Today!

To register: Call/visit Sun N Lakes Golf Shop or online, www.HighlandsArtLeague.org Entry Deadline: January 23, 2015

Fee $65/player; four person scramble benefiting…….

$$$ Cash Prizes $$$ $2,000 Hole in 1 sponsor: Cohan Radio Group $250 Closest to the Pin sponsor: Alan Jay Automotive

$125 Longest Drive Male* $125 Longest Drive Female* *Sponsor: Palms of Sebring

$50 Most Colorful Attire

MAKE THE ROUND. MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Charity Golf Tournament Tax Deductible Contribution to: Highlands Art League.

Prize Sponsor: Barben Fruit Company Lunch Sponsor:

For more information contact: Barb Hall (863) 202-4268 Sun ’N Lakes (863) 385-4830 Art League (863) 385-6682

The Highlands Art League, Inc. (HAL) is a 501 c3 non profit organization. Its mission is to encourage emerging and evolving artists of all ages and to positively impact our community through the celebration and exploration of the arts. HAL consists of a four building Art Village, which encompasses an art museum, artist studios, art educational facilities and gallery space.

!

Join us for lunch, awards, mulligans, raffle, 50/50, prizes & fun! www.HighlandsArtLeague.org

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LITERATURE FEATURE

A SERIES ON FLORIDA LITERATURE CHARLES WILLEFORD

By Brady Vogt

C

harles Willeford was a hero in World War II. To relate to how fast things changed because of The War, in 1939 the twenty year old man was in the U.S. Cavalry in The American West, an expert at horse shoeing and horse holding, that is gripping the reins of plunging, terrified ponies and stallions while troopers learned to shoot the new automatic carbines from the saddle, or machine guns from buckboards. In 1944 he was present at The Battle of The Bulge, Belgium, in the great frozen forest, The Ardennes, surviving beneath the roar of tank and cannon fire. He was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart (with oak leaf clusters) and the Luxembourg War Cross.

Charles Willeford was a man of a many talents besides. He composed “hardboiled” poetry, taught English literature and philosophy at Miami Dade Community College, and wrote stories, pulp fiction, for the likes of Beacon and Bantam. Those 1950’s and 1960’s pulp publishers used thin, brittle paper encased in lurid, provoking covers. They were pocket books. He wrote with long periods between novels

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through most of his career and then upon being discovered for his Hoke Mosley, his disinterested detective in Miami, he finished four good novels in four years, got his first big check, to make up for fifty years of writing, and dropped dead of a heart attack very shortly after. He was for many years an editor for “Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine” and reviewed crime novels for THE MIAMI HERALD. He was at the very least, indifferent to what he did not already have, cigarettes and bourbon, straw hats and Cuban shirts, a steady income, and the weirdness of Miami in the 1980’s, upon which to draw for inspiration. His Hoke Mosley didn’t care much either. The only, only thing he has any talent for is being a homicide detective and much of that is attributed to perhaps that he will live long enough, not screw up, and so ease into retirement. He is a crummy father, has no lovers, has no interests, no dough. He never had a hobby. Hoke in one drama indeed settles for the janitor’s job at his father’s apartment building. He wears jumpsuits with the sleeves cut out, one yellow, one blue, to change at least once every single week. The poor man, his teeth are not his own, his dentures stolen in one instance, along with his pistol and badge.

January 2015

In 1984, St. Martins Press published MIAMI BLUES. Now the whole thing about the crime scene in literature, is it has got to be dark, “noir” as they say for coffee. It has got to be hip and its got to be able to become repeated, that is the character must go on to new (in the case of Hoke Mosely… disappointments) adventures. John D. MacDonald did Travis McGee, Dashiell Hammett did Sam Spade, Rex Stout did Nero Wolfe, and Randy Wayne White, on a less darkened page, does Doc Ford. When the publisher found himself pleased with sales of MIAMI BLUES, he commissioned Willeford to write another Hoke Mosely story, which he did, however causing his protagonist to commit an atrocious crime, and face with subdued enthusiasm, a life left in solitary confinement, at Raiford it is supposed, thereby ending any notion of a sequel and a series. The publisher flung GRIMHAVEN onto the bottom shelf and explained the thing to Willeford. He followed through with NEW HOPE FOR THE DEAD, SIDESWIPE, and THE WAY WE DIE NOW, that one for which he got that $225,000.00, signed about five copies for his wife and a few friends, and then keeled over. It must have been Random House. Like his character, Charles Willeford worked hard to keep success at a distance. His man Hoke Mosely, settles for survival.

It was typical of Willeford, that when in conversation with another writer, exclaimed that a copy of his first book was selling for twenty dollars, that is that some sucker would turn over a sawbuck for a cheap paperback. Willeford today is highly collectable. There is an excellent article about what an enthusiast would look for in chasing down Charles Willeford. In writing, the sum of published words is called “a body of work.” Charles Willeford’s manuscripts and letters and copies (mostly First Printing’s) of his poetry and prose, which including newspaper and magazine contributions is substantial, are owned by The Broward County Public Library.

The article by Don Herron appeared in FIRSTS magazine in 1998. It is a brief scholarly work and reminiscence about Willeford’s place in the whole mystery book collecting thing.

It is a bibliography of sorts, nicely painted, colored up and fragranced by what we’re really talking about, which in “Collecting Charles Willeford” is money. Lawrence Block, who is an enormously successful mystery writer wrote an article following Willeford’s passing that laments time not spent together, and examines Willeford, to try and determine what indeed was he saying, and how deep do we want to go? There is a television pilot that is presently being advertised. Simply called HOKE, it features Paul Giamatti, as the bedraggled and potentially insane detective. Twenty six years after the last novel, Willeford hits the big time. He would have been… amused.

January 2015

Men love a mystery. There is something mysterious, curious more, about Willeford’s style and stories. It is that the books were written with absolutely no one special in mind. No audience, no loyal fans, certainly nobody looking for a laugh or a cry. Part of it was Miami. Carl Hiassen was at the HERALD, tearing up the corrupt politicians and selfimportant Miamians. Dave Barry was around, smirking at the way it was in Miami in the 1980’s, like shooting ducks in a barrel.. They had a grip on the masses that wanted to laugh at those extreme examples of Dade County culture. Slapstick.

Comedy. Entertainment. Mystery is tougher. There has to be just enough despair and connivance, no love and no loss, no love lost, the ugly placed beside the gorgeous and either one willing to stab you in the back. At the end, after the players have left the stage, nothing is changed. There are certainly no clichés in Willeford, no great or even lesser expectations, no torrid loves scenes, no snappy dialogue or internal musings, its just out there, nothing more interesting than the rising and setting of the sun, the most ordinary people in Miami, going through the motions of ordinary days until there is an explosion across the pages of violence, sharp, bloody, conclusive, that catches the reader fast, and snaps him out of his complacency. When aroused, when threatened, when survival is a stake, Willeford’s man is more terminator than simpleton.

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TRAVEL FEATURE

GIRLS GETAWAY

By The Getaway Girl® Casey Wohl

A

fter just a three-hour direct flight from Orlando, I arrived at the Montreal-Trudeau International Airport ready to take on the island of Montreal. That’s right, Montreal is actually an island with more than 20 miles of “underground” that comprise the largest underground city in the world. It is also the second largest French speaking city (after Paris) in the world, the most bilingual city (most everyone speaks French and English) and the second largest Catholic city in North America (after Mexico City).

I was not only excited to explore North America’s most European city, but to also get a firsthand look at the city’s newest (at the time) festival (Montreal is known for its many festivals held year round): the Circus Arts Festival, which was held for the first time July 8-25, 2010 and is the only venue of this kind in North America (www.Tourisme-Montreal.org).

I arrived at the Hotel Intercontinental Montreal (www.

Montreal.Intercontinental.com), which is conveniently located between Old Montreal and downtown and within walking distance to dining, shopping and entertainment.

In addition, the hotel links directly to the underground pedestrian network. Location, location, location...it is prefect.

I was joined by a few people from England, as well as representatives from Tourisme Montreal, and we made our way to Restaurant Bistro Le Fabrique where I had French Fries (or chips as they call them in England) that were fried in duck oil. My life will never be the same.

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The next morning we met Annique Dufour for a tour of Montreal. Annique is an amazing tour guide and we covered so much ground that morning. We started with a tour of the underground (not all 20 miles) that has 69 subway stops, 7 shopping centers and 300 police cadets that patrol the underground daily. We also drove to the Island of Expo (named for when Montreal hosted the World’s Fair in 1967), which is now home to their Formula 1 racetrack, the GillesVilleneuve, that you can drive, walk or bike on (when there is no race in progress, of course). We went for a spin in the minivan and kept on driving. We also learned about their new BIXI (http://montreal.bixi.com/home) system, which is a public bicycle sharing system Montreal has developed and has now been duplicated and sold to London, Boston, Toronto and Melbourne (Australia). For $5/day, you can find a bicycle at one of BIXI’s 600 stations throughout the city that houses about 4,000 bicycles. With nearly 250 miles of bike trails, Montreal is easily the top bicycle city in North America.

After working up quite an appetite, we were ready for lunch at the famous Schwartz’s Deli (www.SchwartzsDeli.com) that has served some of the city’s best smoked meat since 1928. It was amazing, but bring cash. Schwartz’s doesn’t take plastic.

With our smoked meat intrigue “cured,” it was time to focus on the Circus Arts Festival. While many of us in the U.S. are familiar with Cirque du Soleil, (the largest and most branded of the modern circuses), there are other troops as well that are part of the festival, which has been planned for the past January 2015

also rehearse for performances, which was quite interesting.

We also had our own “workout” as we couldn’t resist laying in the foam pool. As we left the building, a student was walking in carrying his bicycle...a unicycle....not something you see at your typical school.

18 months. There are three main sites for the festival: 1) Tohu, 2) Old Port of Montreal and 3) Downtown Montreal.

There are also 15 different shows that portray the innovation and creativity that is unique to this “circus of tomorrow” performance.

Our first (and probably favorite) show was ID by Cirque Eloize (www.cirque-eloize.com) (think Broadway’s Rent meets what you know about Cirque du Soleil and you may have some idea).

It was refreshing to see the young performers incorporate new elements into the routines, such as the BMX bike.

After the show we stopped at Auberge du Vieux-Port for sangria (which we enjoyed while overlooking the Port and Cirque du Soleil tent) then it was off to see the closing night of Totem, Cirque du Soleil’s latest creation (www.cirquedusoleil. com), before it begins its traveling series. As with any Cirque show, it was incredible.

The next morning, I took some time to explore Montreal’s shopping along St. Catherine Street, which was just a few blocks from the hotel. This street has everything you would want in big-city shopping (from H&M to Gucci to department stores). After finding several dresses that had to come home with me, we were off to the Circus Complex for our afternoon circus-learning sessions.

We started at the National Circus School Montreal (www. nationalcircusschool.ca) where potential circus artists can come and train (as early as age 9 for part-time learning and 12-16 for full time students). They have 140 total students in total from various countries. I even met a girl who is from Florida while there. We watched students working out and January 2015

Next stop: Cirque du Soleil headquarters that employs about 4,000 people from 40 different countries. We got an amazing behind-the-scenes tour of the various gyms, training rooms, make up room, costume department (wigs, shoes, headdresses, outfits) and the scheduling department (just the interpreters’ schedules alone were overwhelming). About 30 different people work with each circus artist, including a massage therapist, nutritionist, interpreter, coach, physical therapist, etc. Each performer is responsible for learning how to do his/her own make up. They also have three full sets of costumes for each performer. Cirque has 400 costume artists, produce each wig hair-by-hair and order 80% of their fabric in white (which means they custom dye most of the costumes you see on stage). This company is like nothing I have seen before!!! All of this was started with a grant from their government.

After being completely blown away by the Cirque tour, we were ready for our own trapeze lessons by Carpe Diem at La Tohu (www.tohu.ca). We all practiced on the ground before getting harnessed up and climbing the big ladder. We were assured it was much harder to put your legs over the bar while on the ground than it would be in the air. However, there is a reason why trapeze artists are short and my long legs just didn’t want to cooperate! Although I didn’t follow directions very well and failed to hang upside down, Sharron named me Easy Trapeze and I was happy.

More eating please!!! Dinner at Restaurant Le Quartier General (www.LeQuartierGeneral.ca) was next on our agenda.

This neighborhood bistro offers regional dishes that change with the season and promote local farmers and ranchers from Heartland InTheField Magazine

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Quebec. My Canteloupe Soup and Entrecote de Beouf 1855 was delicious. Dominic was a huge help is assisting with our choices as Ben decided he looked like Simon LeBon from Duran Duran. Dominic said he prefers Jonathan Rhys-Meyers instead.

Our game of Celebrity Cross Ups (courtesy of my friend Mandy L.) was successful and is now a huge hit in Montreal.

We woke up Tuesday morning ready for our Jukari Fit to Fly workout at Club Sportif MAA. Jukari (www.JukariWorkout.com) is the culmination of a Cirque du Soleil/ Reebok partnership intent on making exercise more fun for women by injecting a touch of artistry into the workout (la Cirque du Soleil), alleviates boredom and makes for one tough workout. Plus, our instructor was Olympic Gold Medalist Speed Skater Nathalie Lambert from Canada...super cool!

We had a lovely lunch at Le Chateau Ramezay’s Restaurant Chasse et Peche, which features an outdoor seating area in the summer. I enjoyed the Asparagus Soup and Tuna Tataki, while Sharron and I had a conversation about who we “fancy” (I am working to incorporate British jargon into my all-American vocabulary). We all “fancied” our server, Maxim!

With our free time after lunch, Sharron, Jan and I shopped along St. Paul West Street and found some great stores. I love, love, love the Montreal-designed dress I purchased. Super fun and unique! Jan loved her dress so much that she wore it right out of the store.

We had so much fun shopping together that we were late for our dinner at Restaurant O’Thym, which is located in Montreal’s Village. It’s trendy and BYOW (Bring Your Own Wine) as most Montreal restaurants are so be sure to pick up a bottle (or a few) before you arrive. I loved my Carrot Soup, the bison we shared and my dinner entree, Halibut with Olive Tapanede.

After dinner we were off to our fourth and last show (and last evening of the trip).

Le Cabaret Des 7 Doignets opened tonight to rave reviews. I especially enjoyed the girl who moonwalked while she juggled five balls and the girl who danced in the chains above our heads to a cabaret rendition of Roxanne (a la The Police). What an outstanding show!

After the show, we sadly said our goodbyes and started planning our next trips together. I must go visit Sharron and Carly in London. Jan and I have decided we are like circus performers and now must “perform” together and are an unseparable travel pair. Many thanks to Tourisme Montreal and the Circus Arts Festival for a spectacular Girls Getaway to Montreal! Au revoir Montreal... À la prochaine!!!

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January 2015

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FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

®

ADVANCE TICKETS ON SALE DEC 4th! • www.flstrawberryfestival.com

FEB. 26 - MAR. 8, 2015 • PLANT CITY, FLORIDA Artists Appearing on the

Bobby Vinton

Thu. Feb. 26, 3:30 $15 & $20

Alabama

Thu. Feb. 26, 7:30 $40

Soundstage:

Mel Tillis

Fri. Feb. 27, 3:30 $15 & $20

Sat. Feb. 28, 3:30 $20

Kevin Costner & Modern West

“Brett Eldredge”

Sat. Feb. 28, 7:30 $35

Sun. Mar. 1, 3:30 $20 & $25

Sawyer Brown

Happy Together Tour

Ronnie Milsap

MercyMe

Mon. Mar. 2, 3:30 $15 & $20

Mon. Mar. 2, 7:30 $25 & $30

Tue. Mar. 3, 3:30 $15 & $20

Scotty McCreery Fri. Feb. 27, 7:30 $25 & $30

Hunter Hayes

Sun. Mar. 1, 7:30 $40

Sara Evans

Tue. Mar. 3, 7:30 $20 & $25

Ricky Skaggs

Wed. Mar. 4, 3:30 $15 & $20

Craig Morgan

Wed. Mar. 4, 7:30 $20 & $25

Visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com or call 813-754-1996 and get your tickets for the best seats available!

Oak Ridge Boys Thur. Mar. 5, 3:30 $15 & $20

Newsboys

Thur. Mar. 5, 7:30 $20

Loretta Lynn

Fri. Mar. 6, 3:30 $20 & $25

Boyz II Men

Fri. Mar. 6, 7:30 $20 & $25

Free Grandstand 3:30 & 7:30 pm Seating is on a first come, first seated basis.

Dan + Shay

Sat. Mar. 7, 3:30 $15 & $20

John Legend

Sat. Mar. 7, 7:30 $50

Parmalee

Sun. Mar. 8, 3:30 $15 & $20

REBA

Sun. Mar. 8, 7:30 $50

Concert dates and times are subject to change

Candyland Warehouse • Stingray Chevrolet • Mosaic • Alessi Bakery • AMSCOT • Carolina Carports • Astin Farms • DIRECTV TECO • Verizon Wireless • Netterfield’s Concessions • Florida Blue • VOSKOS® Greek Yogurt • Southern Ford Dealers Outcast Watersports • Florida’s Best • Bionic Band • Images Everywhere! • Good Health Saunas • bluegreen vacations

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January 2015

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Happenings IN THE HEARTLAND

iron crafts, stained glass, jewelry and plants. There will also be painters, photographers and sculptors with artwork for sale. While attendees work up an appetite from all the fun, food vendors will be on site with fun treats such as kettle corn, BBQ, lemonade, Italian ice, hot dogs and ice cream.

VENDORS WANTED FOR 32ND ANNUAL ROARING 20S ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

D

owntown Sebring will be having a “roaring” good time on Sat., Feb. 14, 2015 as the Downtown Sebring Business Alliance (DSBA) hosts the 32nd Annual Roaring 20s Arts & Crafts Festival from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. For artists and crafters interested in displaying their handmade works, there are 10x14 spaces available.

Applications can be found on the Roaring 20s Festival website at www.Roaring20sFest.com or by calling (863) 381-6467. Deadline to apply is Jan. 1, 2015.

More than 100 craft, art and food vendors are expected to convene around Sebring’s historic downtown Circle to celebrate Sebring’s 1920’s heritage. Within the lovely setting, festival attendees can browse booths displaying wood crafts, homemade soaps, leather crafts, clothing, iron crafts, stained glass, jewelry and plants. There will also be painters, photographers and sculptors with artwork for sale. While attendees work up an appetite from all the fun, food vendors will be on site with fun treats such as kettle corn, BBQ, lemonade, Italian ice, hot dogs and ice cream.

FOUNDATION FOR DREAMS

T

he Foundation for Dream’s staff and supporters, along with members of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office made the Christmas wish of one of our campers come true this holiday season. With the help of some donors, members of the Manatee County Sheriff’s office put together and delivered this basketball net. These amazing men went out and purchased the basketballs for Jacoby to play with during the day and night. They even stayed to play a couple of games.... Thank you to all that helped to make this wish come true!! Love when the little things make all the difference.....

More than 100 craft, art and food vendors are expected to convene around Sebring’s historic downtown Circle to celebrate Sebring’s 1920’s heritage. Within the lovely setting, festival attendees can browse booths displaying wood crafts, homemade soaps, leather crafts, clothing,

Submit your photos and events for Heartland Happenings to rhonda@heartlanditf.com

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January 2015

GIVING THE ‘GIFT OF ART’ TO LOCAL SENIORS

O

n Monday, Dec. 15, the Highlands Art League (HAL) donated nearly 40 paintings from “Art Uncorked” and other classes, as well as from its Studio Artists, to residents at the Palms of Sebring. This is the second year HAL has donated art to the Palms residents. In addition, Phyllis Jones Behrens, an Art Uncorked instructor, provided the residents with a demonstration as she painted a portrait of resident EJ Thomas on site.

HAL’s popular Art Uncorked classes, which began in 2012, have filled more than 2,000 seats in the past year. While every painting is a masterpiece, many Art Uncorked participants have limited wall space or like to re-decorate from time to time and hang new Art Uncorked paintings. Therefore, HAL developed a partnership with the Palms of Sebring to gift extra Art Uncorked paintings to the Palms residents for the holidays so they can display in their rooms. Some residents do not get gifts for the holidays, so this is the HAL’s way of giving the ‘gift of art’ during this holiday season.

“Our Art Uncorked classes have been so successful and participants are painting so many paintings, that many of them don’t have room left on their walls,” said Barb Hall, president-elect of the HAL. “We are happy we can share these with residents GIVING THE ‘GIFT OF ART’ TO LOCAL SENIORS from the Palms of Sebring.”

O

n Monday, Dec. 15, the Highlands Art League HAL offers painting, drawing, photography and (HAL) donated nearly 40 paintings from “Art kids classes, which are featured on the HAL website Uncorked” and other classes, as well as from at www.HighlandsArtLeague.org.. Gift certificates its Studio Artists, to residents at the Palms of Sebring. are also available and make great holiday gifts.

This is the second year HAL has donated art to the Palms residents. In addition, Phyllis Jones Behrens, an For more information, call the Highlands Art Art Uncorked instructor, provided the residents with a League at (863) 385-6682 or visit demonstration as she painted a portrait of resident EJ www.HighlandsArtLeague.org.

Thomas on site.

HAL’s popular Art Uncorked classes, which began in 2012, have filled more than 2,000 seats in the past year. While every painting is a masterpiece, many Art Uncorked participants have limited wall space or like to re-decorate from time to time and hang new Art Uncorked paintings. Therefore, HAL developed a partnership with the Palms of Sebring to gift extra Art Uncorked paintings to the Palms residents for the

Submit your photos and events for Heartland Happenings to rhonda@heartlanditf.com January 2015

Heartland InTheField Magazine

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AG CALENDAR JANUARY 3rd RIDE FOR THE FIGHT Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Arena 3rd – 4th FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL RODEO, Lee County Posse Arena 9th JACKPOT SCR BUCKLE SERIES Lee County Posse Arena 10th FLORIDA CATTLEWOMEN’S FUN SHOOT Quail Creek Plantation

11th BUGS OF THE SCRUB AND MORE NATURE WALK Archbold Biological Station, Venus 15th 32ND ANNUAL FLORIDA Cattlemen’s Institute & Allied Trade Show, Turner Center, Arcadia 16th-17th CRACKER DAY RODEO Lee County Posse Arena 16th-17th LAKELAND PRO RODEO CLASSIC Lakeland Center

10th NATURALIST-LED WAGON TOUR Robinson Preserve, Bradenton

16th – Feb. 1st SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR West Palm Beach

10th BIG CYPRESS 119TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Big Cypress Seminole Reservation

16th – 18th 11TH ANNUAL SW FLORIDA NATURE FESTIVAL Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, Naples

Submit your events for the ag calendar to rhonda@heartlanditf.com

17th TOP OF THE LAKE DAY OF THE COWBOY Okeechobee Agri Civic Center 17th MASTER GARDENER TOUR Emerson Point Preserve, Palmetto 18th PEE WEE JUNIOR CRACKER DAY RODEO Lee County Posse Arena 23rd-24th PEACE RIVER PRO RODEO CLASSIC Wauchula Fair Grounds 25th FIRE FOR THE LANDSCAPE DEMONSTRATION AND NATURE WALK Archbold Biological Station, Venus 30th HISTORICAL GHOST TOUR Main Street Heritage Park, Wauchula 30th-31st IMMOKALEE FIREFIGHTERS PRO RODEO

IN THE FIELD MAGAZINE Your Monthly Agricultural Magazine Since 2004, Serving the Heartland Since 2008 78

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Heartland’s Growing Businesses Sapp

QUAIL FARM Kevin & Stephanie Sapp

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Find it at your favorite equine dealer

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January 2015

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HEARTLAND’S MARKETPLACE

Jan’s Heartland Growers Supply Come in and look at our Cajun Fryers, Yeti Coolers & Tumblers and the Big Green Egg.

Come on in, where the summer time tan never ends! Manicures, cosmetics products, and more.

Glissons Animal Supply Buy your Costa del Mar sunglasses at

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Maui Jim Sunglasses, Yeti Coolers and Columbia Apparel

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Contact Rhonda rhonda@heartlanditf.com

January 2015

friday & saturday * march 6 & 7, 2015

arts & crafts * live entertainment * alligator wrestling

fair * midway * rides * parade traditional seminole indian food & art

livestock shows & auction ranch rodeo: friday & saturday night 7 pm country & western dancing : friday & saturday night 9 pm

www.chalonitka.com * (863) 946-0300 January 2015

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AN UPLAND BIRD HUNTER’S PARADISE in an Old Florida

setting at its finest!

Whether it’s just for fun or mixing a little business with pleasure, Quail Creek Plantation awards the prize when it comes to an outdoor paradise for hunting and fishing. Shoot some sporting clays to warm up before finding the covey on a guided hunt for upland birds. Finish the day with a pole and go angling for that big fish to talk about later. Kick back and enjoy the Quail Creek Lodge and dine on fried quail for lunch, or have our gourmet chefs help you plan a special dinner for a fundraiser or private event at Quail Creek Plantation.

WEDDINGS || CONFERENCES || FUNDRAISERS/BANQUETS || SPORTING CLAYS 12399 Northeast 224th Street • Okeechobee, Florida 34972 • 863-763-2529 www.quailcreekplantation.com • reservations@quailcreekplantation.com

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