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Contents
VOL. 11 • ISSUE 4
FSGA Field Day Page
70
Business Up Front
Treasure Hunting
Naturally Amazing
Adam Putnam
The wild Guava
A Closer Look
New Chair UF Dept of Environmental Horticulture
Ivory-Billed Woodpecker
Meet the Minks
UF Marketing Team
Step Back in time
Agriculture Tours
Clementine Cafe
Protection For Specialty Crops
Native Inspired Food
Page 10 Page 15 Page 16
Fishing Hot Spots
Page 18
Rocking Chair Chatter
Page 22
FFA Appreciation
Page 28
Literary Time Machine
Page 33
Spaghetti Squash
Page 46 Page 52 Page 54 Page 58 Page 64
Page 78
GCREC Molecular Biologist
Page 79
Page 84 Page 85 Page 88 Page 92
Page 100 Page 106
Facts About Strawberry Industry
Page 116
Page 35
RUP Exams
Page 42
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February 2015
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Letter from the Editor Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Editor-In-Chief Al Berry The Florida State Fair kicked off in fine fashion with the Fresh From Florida Breakfast held in the Ag Hall of Fame building. Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture was on hand to greet attendees, as was the Governor, Rick Scott, Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater and Attorney General Pam Bondi. Local farmers and ranchers and representatives from Florida’s agriculture community joined the Governor and his Cabinet for this annual breakfast featuring Fresh From Florida products. When you mention a fair to most people today, their first thoughts are of stomach churning rides and equally stomach churning food (okay, that last part could be my sentiment alone). In actuality, fairs have deep ties to farming, ranching and our country’s agriculture background. Fairs began as an opportunity for families to share livestock, crops, agricultural techniques and equipment. While fairs have grown to include all kinds of entertainment, you will still find the youth of our great nation, showing the hard work they have put in on numerous projects, as they learn, through 4-H and FFA, about responsibility and leadership to prepare them for their future, the future of our country. If you were in attendance at the Florida State Fair, good for you! I hope you had the opportunity to stop by the livestock area and watch our youth and the fruits of their endeavors. If not, mark it down for next year. It’s always a great time! Until Next Mont
Editor Patsy Berry Office Manager Bob Hughens Sales Manager Danny Crampton Sales Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton Melissa Nichols Creative Director/Illustrator Juan Alvarez Photography Karen Berry Al Berry Stephanie Humphrey Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Libby Hopkins Contributing Writers Woody Gore Les McDowell John Dicks
Sarah The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25
ABC Pizza...................................................91 Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers.............76 Alan’s Air Conditioning Service............87 Antioch Feed.............................................47 Aquarius Water Refining.......................101 Arrowhead Archery................................95 Astin Family..............................................94 Astin Strawberry Exchange...................91 Bill’s Transmissions................................80 Bingham...................................................68 Brandon Auto Services, Inc...................59 Brandon Farms........................................27 Brandon Regional Hospital...................40 Brantley Realty......................................107 Brewington’s Towing & Recovery.........81 Broke & Poor..........................................80 Buckeye Storage.....................................113 Cameron Financial Service...................27 Cecil Breeding Farm...............................49 Certis USA.................................................51 Certis USA................................................119 Chuck’s Auto.............................................97 Country Village......................................98 Cresecent Jewelers...............................57 Dad’s Towing............................................41
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Dr. Barry Gaffney, O.D. PA...............................11 Dr. Pat Almerico................................................29 Driscol’s...............................................................12 East Coast Ag Products, Inc...........................83 Everglades Farm Equipment........................120 Exo Creative......................................................39 Fancy Farms.......................................................25 Farm Bureau Insurance-Valrico....................90 Farm Bureau Insurance/Jeff Sumner............53 Farm Credit.......................................................76 Felton’s.................................................................31 Fischbach Land Co.........................................104 Floor & Decor..................................................102 Florida Dept of Ag...........................................110 Florida Mineral, Salt & Ag Products............30 Florida Strawberry Festival...........................24 Florida Strawberry Growers Asso................45 Forbes Road Produce........................................12 Fran Haasch.......................................................77 Fred’s Market Restaurant......................23 & 55 Gator Ford..........................................................41 Go Fresh Produce..............................................114 Grimes Hardware.............................................98 Grove Equipment Service.............................108 Gulf Coast Tractor............................................73 Harold’s Feed & Pet Supply......................3 &74 Harrell’s Nursery, Inc........................................91 Haught Funeral Home......................................72 Highland Corporation......................................23 Hillsboro Bank..................................................26 Home Protection Pest Control........................21 Hopewell...........................................................109 I-4 Power............................................................117 Jarrett-Scott Ford...................................2 & 62 Johnson’s Barbeque.........................................21 Jon & Rosie’s Tree Farm.................................91 Keene Plumbing................................................34 Ken’s Well Drilling............................................27 Key Plex..............................................................115 Loetscher Auto Parts........................................39 Magnolia Hill.....................................................60 Malissa Crawford..............................................61 Meryman Environmental................................105 Mid Florida APBTA...........................................59 Morrow Steel.....................................................112 Mosaic.................................................................25 O’connor.............................................................99 Pathway BioLogic.............................................79 Patterson Companies.......................................75 Parkesdale Farm Market........................17 & 36 Plant City Awning.............................................48 Plant City Homestyle Buffet.............................5 Plant City Housing............................................56 Plant City Tire & Auto.....................................91 Platinum Bank.................................................108 Quality Pumping Inc.........................................81 R&O Pest Control............................................36 Railroad & Industrial Fed Credit...................44 RAMM Recycling.................................................86 RCS Company....................................................61 Rhonda Wetherington......................................83 Savich & Lee Wholesale.....................20 & 21 Seedway.............................................................23 Shrimp & Co......................................................19 South Fl Baptist Hospital..................................7 Southside Stores LLC.............................14 & 63 Stephanie Humphrey........................................84 StingRay Chevy........................................13 & 32 Sweet Life Farms.............................................75 The Southern Barn........................................103 The Wild Guava...............................................65 Timberlane Pet Hospital & Resort.......69 & 9 Tracy’s Custom Crosses..................................60 Trinkle,Redman,Swanson,Coton,...................67 Verti-Gro, Inc.....................................................44 Vocational Rehab............................................105 Walden Lake Car Wash & Service...............91 Wasabi Japanese Steak House.......................9 Wells Memorial..................................................82 Willie’s.................................................................83 Zaxby’s.................................................................111
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BC1403144-0614
FARM BUREAU Dear Readers:
100toSouth MulrennantheRoad • Valrico, 33594 • 813-685-9121 I am both humbled and honored have been challenges our localFL industry partners face as elected president of YOUR Hillsborough County they strive to produce the high quality products Farm Bureau. All of us owe a debt of gratitude to our markets demand. Those tours are hard work outgoing president Danny Aprile for his years of and represent many hours of support from our service to our organization. I promise to do my A BUSY industry colleagues. We YOUR thank them and those TIME FOR best to continue the momentum he carried forth. legislators and regulators who take the time to FARM BUREAU learn first hand about agriculture in our area and As a sixth generation Florida farmer, I know the how and why we need their ongoing awareness, many challenges and opportunities all of us have help and support. in theReaders: agriculture industry and that is an industry Dear food. The more. passageAg-Venture, of meaningful immigration will not be Dear Readers: There’s our program reform for bringing that is global. Our major challenge is to continue easy, it must be done if agriculture in through this state and country is the but story of agriculture to children school to produce the food our growing population must to have a permanent to this ongoing challenge. In just aI few days we will have thathonored special opportunity to once am both and to have been the challenges our solution local industry face as activities, is going on and we willpartners again be particihave whilehumbled the lands devoted to farming continue again enjoy the annual Florida Strawberry Festival. I look forpresident YOUR County they strive to produce the action high quality products pating in Farm City Days through we bring to diminish. Theof good is that the market Additionally, Farm Bureau’s planwhich is focused on supportward toelected attending the festival withthing my Hillsborough family and hope you will, Farm Bureau. All of us owe a debt of gratitude to our markets demand. Those tours are hard work the story of agriculture to our friends living in benefits for for our products continues to expand. Our task ing agricultural biotechnology as a tool yielding great too. Also, please support the youth livestock and plant sale opoutgoing Aprile for ishis ofway and represent many hours of environment. support fromThis ouris critical as our industry, consumers and the portunities that arepresident offeredmeet atDanny the festival. noyears better Tampa. is to effectively those dualThere challenges while we look tocolleagues. the future. We alsothem take aand hard look at reformato showservice these agriculturalists of tomorrow that to we appreciate to our I promise do my industry Wemust thank those protecting ourorganization. precious environment. I am confident tion of the Endangered Species Act. Farmers, ranchers and entheir hard work and commitment to our industry. best to continue thetask momentum heforward carried forth. legislators andare regulators who take the time Lastly, if you not a member of our FarmtoBureau we are up to that and I look to helping vironmentalists agree that we must conserve and recover wildlife learn first handjoin about inthe our area and family, please us. agriculture It isn’t necessary that you us all dostate our lawmakers part to assure that we do to so.work and be and a it facing preventable extinction. However ESA has failed Our federal and are getting back As a sixth generation Florida farmer, I know the how and why we need their ongoing awareness, farmer or rancher to join. Please visit must be reformed to protect endangered species while allowing we should be paying attention to the key public policy issues many challenges and about opportunities allnew of have help and support. farmers and ranchers to use their land813/685-9121 for food production. they will be me addressing. Bureauthe nationally hasus approved http:// hcfarmbureau.org Let also tell Farm you other officers or call for a strategic planagriculture focusing onand legislation thatare: addresses in the industry that They is an industry elected by your attention board last month. more information. Let me close byAg-Venture, encouraging our you program to check out benefits of agriculture’s longand short-term labor needs; is thetoprotection of There’s more. for the bringing that global. Our challenge continue ViceisPresident Willmajor Womack, Treasurer Ray Wood, becoming a Farm Bureau member. The modest fee associated farmers; abilities to use biotech plant varieties and other innovathe story ofmembership agriculture children through to producethe the foodWilliamson ourofgrowing population must Secretary Michelle and Member-AtOnce again, I am honored toBureau be your with family into Farm is apresident greatschool dealand and your tive technologies; opposition expanding federal jurisdicactivities, is going on and we will again be particihave while the lands devoted to farming continue Large Bill Burnette. My thanks to each of them and my very best to you and your family. involvement will be beneficial to both your family and our industion under the Clean Water Act and advancing legislation that pating in Farm City Days through which we bring or call diminish. The good thing is that the market try. To learn more, please visit: http://hcfarmbureau.org reformsto the Endangered Species Act. While that focus is national, our board for their willingness to serve. 813/685-9121 more information. the labor and water issues are of particular importance us here the story of for agriculture to our friends living in for our products continues to expand. Ourtotask in Florida. Tampa. isAstoI effectively those dual challenges while am sure allmeet of you have come to realize protecting our precious environment. I am confident vacation time is over. We are particularly busy at Thank you, Sincerely, We will do our best here in Hillsborough County to keep you Lastly, if you are not a member of our Farm Bureau we are up to that task and I look forward to helping Farm Bureau. This month we are completing the updated on the work being done in Washington and Tallahassee, family, please join us. It isn’t necessary that you be a all do ourcan part assure that we so. we take as well us as what do to locally to assist thedo lawmakers who third ofyou our legislative tours during which support elected our industry. Your involvement at the grass roots level is farmer or rancher to join. Please visit and appointed officials to several of our vital. Let me also tell you about the other new officers http:// hcfarmbureau.org or call 813/685-9121 for agricultural businesses in this areas so they can see Kenneth Parker - President elected by your board last month. They are: more information. agriculture at work, some of the best management Farmers and ranchers know fist-hand the importance of clean Vice President Treasurer Wood, practices that Will have been and learn water, most often living on theWomack, land put they into work.place OftenRay their waterof Secretary and Member-AtOnce again, I am honored to be your president and resources are on orMichelle near theirWilliamson property and they typically adopt new technology related to conservation. of the proposed Large Bill Burnette. My thanksSome to each of them and my very best to you and your family. federal our initiatives give willingness the federal government unboardwould for their to serve. almost Board of Directors
Enjoy the Strawberry Festival and Get Ready for the Upcoming Legislative Session
Kenneth
limited power to dictate farming practices and impose complex Kenneth Parker, President; Will Ray Wood, Treasure; Michelle Williamson, Secretary; and costly permitting processes, regardless ofWomack, need. WeVice-President; simply Member-at-large; Bill Burnette; Board members: Roy Davis, David Drawdy, Jim Dyer, Jim Frankowiak, As I am sure all of you have come to realize cannot let that happen.
8
John Joyner,busy Gregat Lehman, Erin Nesmith, vacationGlenn time Harrell, is over.Chip WeHinton, are particularly Thank you, Jake Raburn, Marty Tanner, James Tew, Ron Wetherington, and Ray Wood, With regard labor, weThis needmonth access to a legal, stable and reliable FarmtoBureau. we are completing the Judi Whitson, Executive Director labor supply. It is not practical for us to import our labor or our third of our legislative tours during which we take elected and appointed officials to several of our INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2013 W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M agricultural businesses in this areas so they can see Kenneth Parker - President agriculture at work, some of the best management practices that have been put into place and learn of
Kenneth
Board of Directors
Kenneth Parker, President; Will Womack, Vice-President; Ray Wood, Treasure; Michelle Williamson, Secretary; Member-at-large; Bill Burnette; Board members: Roy Davis, David Drawdy, Jim Dyer, Jim Frankowiak, Glenn Harrell, Chip Hinton, John Joyner, Greg Lehman, Erin Nesmith, Jake Raburn, Marty Tanner, James Tew, Ron Wetherington, and Ray Wood, Judi Whitson, Executive Director 8 88
THE FIELD M AGAZINE February 2015 INTIINN HE FIELD AGAZINE 20132015 THE FIELDMM AGAZINE NOVEMBER February
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Go Fresh Produce Business Up Front
By Ginny Mink
Produce stands are prolific these days as people are attempting to move closer and closer to the natural and organic. Due to the copious number of these establishments, you can imagine my surprise when I was told a new one had opened up in the Plant City vicinity! In truth, their reputation precedes them though and that for me is quite a feat. It was actually my brother (aka: The Burned Guy) who announced to my Mammaw that he’d recently been in the nicest produce stand he’d ever seen. Indeed, he’d set foot in Go Fresh Produce on Hwy 92 owned by Greg and Sharon Ours and managed by Aaron Majors, whom they’re excited about working with. I had the chance to do a little recognizance work since the people I interview often don’t recognize me in public (I do a lot of my interviews over the phone thanks to the wee-ones). Having heard my brother’s opinion I wanted to see what all the hype was really about. I’ll tell you in all honesty that I’ve been in a bunch of produce stands (they’re usually cheaper than the grocery when it comes to veggies and fruit) and most of them are less than desirable when it comes to flies and damaged goods. However, Go Fresh Produce was immaculate (aside from the leaves that had blown in- as Sharon later pointed out to me), and the employees greeted me when I first entered. 10
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I perused the stand, examining prices, making comparisons, but I’ll tell you, even though I am getting paid to write this, that it was like they’d hand-picked each item. Seriously, the tomatoes, the peppers, the oranges, and tangerines: blemish-less! I was shocked! The stuff on their shelves was beautiful and decently priced. Sharon told me that they’ve got over 100 different pieces of produce and though the stand is kind of on the small side, the quality of what they are offering their customers is superior to that of larger more profit-driven establishments. Sharon mentioned on the phone that they sold other things besides produce: azaleas, raw honey, boiled peanuts and Amish made goods, etc. What garnered my attention and prompted the recognizance mission was what she said called, “hand-churned Amish butter.” I had to try some! Let me tell you now: DELISH! I got that and the Amish blueberry spread prior to revealing myself to Sharon and Aaron. I’m impressed and I’m hooked. That all said, you’d probably like to know a little about the owners of Go Fresh Produce. Well, from what I can tell, they’re pretty cool people. I spent over half an hour on the phone with Sharon even after the interview was completed. Sharon is a born and raised Plant City girl and Greg’s a transplant due to marriage (to Sharon). AcWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
tually, their marital story is a cute one, maybe you should ask her when you stop by the stand. Anyhow, Greg was getting a little bit bored being at home too much and decided it was time to embark on a new journey (they own a couple of companies but seem to be really good at hiring managers that leave them little to do). There was an opportunity to rent the space on Hwy 92 and since Greg had done a lot of produce work in his youth he decided he’d like to get back to it. Thusly, Go Fresh Produce was born! Sharon explained, “My husband and I already have two other businesses that we still do. My husband was traveling a lot but then for the last eight months he was working from home. I would classify him as a workaholic. He doesn’t sit still very long and he kind of drags me along for the ride. This opportunity just kind of presented itself. He’s done produce since he was in high school so this is something that’s not new for him at all. While other kids were out working at Hardees, he was out selling produce on the side of the road. So this was definitely not anything new. It was kind of a fluke that it happened and he thought it was something he wanted to do. He came home and told me about it and I said, ‘Oh here we go again.’” She chuckled and continued, “We opened up a week ago Monday. We want to provide something for our community that we’re proud of. We want to provide a clean and quality place that people can be happy with. We want it to be a friendly place where people feel special and enjoy being there.” We can assure you that goal has been accomplished! Perhaps the neatest thing we found out about Greg and Sharon Ours is their connection with a Chinese student exchange program. Greg works closely with an organization called: Education First Home Stay Program. He helps students hoping to study in the states find homes for the summer. This is an excellent way to make an impact on a child from another country. They see it as an opportunity to be foreign missionaries without having to leave the US. Basically, your mission field comes to you and spends 17 days in your home. The students go to school during the day but are home with you in the evening and on weekends so they are free to go to church with you. Greg and Sharon’s exchange student is actually back for a second go round with them and they are thrilled. If you’d like more information about this awesome opportunity, give Greg a call: (813) 763 1340. And, don’t forget to check out Go Fresh Produce (it’s on Hwy 92 right before you hit Branch Forbes).
Go Fresh Produce is open: Monday – Saturday; 9am to 7pm. Closed Sundays. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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813-752-2379
Mon. - Sat.: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Western & Outdoor Wear, Farm, Ranch & Pet Supplies
3014 S. Jim Redman Pkwy. (Hwy. 39 S) Plant City, FL • www.southsidestores.com 14
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By Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam
W.O.T.U.S The EPA has once again made an attempt to expand federal jurisdiction on Florida’s waterways with its proposed changes to the rules guiding the implementation of the Clean Water Act. Earlier this month, I testified before a joint hearing of U.S. House and Senate Committees regarding the devastating impact of the EPA’s proposed changes. The EPA claims that the purpose of this rule is to clarify which bodies of water are and are not subject to the Clean Water Act. The EPA claims that the proposed regulations will not significantly change what currently is considered Waters of the U.S. And the EPA claims the proposed regulations will not substantially affect Florida’s agriculture industry. I believe this is simply another attempt by the EPA to regulate areas outside their authority, and in contradiction to guidance given by the U.S. Supreme Court. Contrary to what the EPA claims, the proposed rule will in fact lack clarity, significantly expand federal jurisdiction, impose burdensome requirements on agriculture, and impede efforts to protect and restore the environment. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
For starters, the EPA’s proposed rule does not clarify how to implement the Clean Water Act, but it does create more ambiguity as to what areas are subject to the requirements, and red tape, of federal jurisdiction. The proposed rule will increase federal jurisdiction of isolated wetland areas of Central Florida and South Florida by as much as 20 percent. Under increased federal jurisdiction, Florida landowners will be required to invest more in permits and mitigation efforts that, in many cases, will have no positive, measurable impact on the health of our waters. In addition, the EPA’s proposed rule will impede and, in some cases, dismantle existing restoration efforts for critically impaired and truly important natural water resources. Rather than supporting environmental restoration projects around Lake Okeechobee, the Everglades and other lakes, rivers and springs, we’ll be forced to divert funding to meet the requirements of this new rule. For the sake of Florida’s farmers and ranchers, and our efforts to protect Florida’s environment, I urged the U.S. Congress to stop the EPA from advancing this disastrous policy. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
February 2015
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Sandy Wilson New Chair for UF Department of Environmental Horticulture By Jack Payne
Dr. Wilson is known for her work on the invasive potential of ornamental species. Because I’m the senior vice president of agriculture and natural resources at UF, that’s exactly the kind of work I believe is so crucial for Florida. We must help industry identify opportunities for profit while protecting natural resources that help make Florida such a great place to live – and to visit. She’s also an expert ornamental propaGator (our UF computers automatically capitalize Gator in any context!), an active participant in industry events, and what I call a Friend of Ben – someone who has built a strong relationship with Ben Bolusky, CEO of the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association. Her dedication to the land-grant mission of research, Extension and teaching make her a valuable asset to IFAS and to stakeholders. I always say you can expect great things from IFAS, and here’s what you can expect from Sandy: • More attention to garnering national awards for our students and faculty. • Efforts to increase undergraduate and graduate student enrollment. • Advocacy for more resources so the department can do more for the industry. She began talking about the need for more faculty to complement the 30-member department before she even moved to Gainesville! • A continued commitment to solid science. • Leadership involvement in the industry. She was the most recent guest speaker at the FNGLA Frontrunner Chapter meeting, introduced herself to a number of the industry vendors at the recent FNGLA Landscape show in Orlando, and is looking forward to attending the Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition in January. She’ll continue to serve on the board of the American Society for Horticultural Science as vice president of education and is an active member of the International Plant Propagation Society, in addition to a number of other plant organizations. It’s important for us to have someone like Sandy who has cultivated strong ties with FNGLA. Industry input helps keep our research relevant. Her hire also demonstrates our gratitude for industry support in the form of research funding, scholarships, letters of support for grant applications and use of nursery lands for demonstration projects. Although Sandy is more noted for building a large teaching botanical garden at the Indian River Research and Education Center, her yard in her former home in Ft. Pierce contains a diverse mixture of leftovers from student projects: firebush, Simpson’s stopper and wild coffee.
UF/IFAS has 14 academic departments and two schools, so I spend a lot of time finding the right people to lead them. Finding a new chair for the Department of Environmental Horticulture was easy, because I already employed an ideal candidate in Ft. Pierce.
Please welcome Sandy. She can be reached on her mobile phone at 772-834-7619 or by email at sbwilson@ufl.edu . The department website is http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/
Sandy Wilson has done outstanding research and teaching, she has boundless enthusiasm, and she has what it takes to lead. Her promotion is great news for Polk County, which records $42 million a year in nursery, greenhouse, floriculture and sod sales, according to the most recent agricultural census. That ranks ninth among Florida counties. Hillsborough County ranks even higher but did not disclose a sales total in that census to avoid disclosing data for individual operations. Jack Payne is the senior vice president of agriculture and natural resources at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. jackpayne@ufl.edu 16
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SPOTTED SEA TROUT EVERYONE’S WINTERTIME FAVORITE You can almost mark your calendar, because as the water temperatures begin dropping the bite picks up on the large sea trout as they begin showing up. We usually see them around the Ft Desoto/Mullet Key area first, before they move northward into the bay. If you’re a trout enthusiast like me, here are a few tips for catching these wintertime favorites as they begin showing up on the inshore flats arena. Trout have a tendency to be territorial, or at least semi-territorial, usually staying or returning to the same areas, provided there is food. A good rule when targeting them is locating good grass flats with a sandy or rocky bottom and a visible presence of food. Next look for shallow bars and/or potholes, specifically those adjacent to deep water drop offs or ledges. Trout love chasing bait into shallow water and attacking it from below. This works in their favor since these shallow areas and potholes act like bait pens where they push the bait up or down trapping it against the surface or bottom. When approaching an area, continually scan the water keeping an eye open for feeding fish. If you find them watch closely to determine if they’re randomly feeding on bait schools, attacking anything that moves, or causally picking off strays. All this helps you decide how you’re going to proceed and formulate your plan of attack. Fishing topwater lures on tightly grouped feeding fish can be awfully exciting. When working a tight group of actively feeding fish present your lure faster than normal, the key being quick, erratic action and quick retrieves, because you’re looking for an impulse strike. You want them to continue striking without getting a good look. On the other hand, scattered fish feeding over a wide area represents a normal feeding time pattern, making it a bit tougher, but the results can still be spectacular once you find the key. This condition normally has a number of associated situations and is usually distinguished by cloud cover or high winds resulting in reduced light and visibility, large amounts of food scattered throughout the area, and rising surface temperatures. As is always the case, these fish have been feeding for some time and are likely gorged by the time you find them. Although they’ve have had their fill they may still want some desert. That being the case, now is the time to rethink your presentation. Instead of fast and erratic it’s time to slow down. This can be extremely difficult for some anglers, often resulting in frustration. But, keep reminding yourself they are highly selective because they are not hungry. Therefore, making the lure look as inviting as possible is the key. For this reason strikes often come when the lure moves slightly, after sitting idle, or wobbles slowly across the surface. Another method is using subsurface suspending lures, or soft plastics 18
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rigged to gradually drop. Remember, when using soft plastics almost every strike happens on the fall and is often extremely delicate so unless you’re paying close attention you can miss it. When pressured by boats, anglers or predators, trout, like other species, slow their feeding or move and if badly spooked can be gone for the day. With the numbers of boats and anglers racing around our waters, you might think fish would become accustomed to the sound of big engines. However depending on the location, water clarity and depth, a main engine still startles them, so try approaching the area using your trolling motor or drifting. Try stopping well before your target, stop on top of the fish and they’re gone. The most common mistake happens when someone carelessly roars into a good fishing area, shuts down and throws out that 15 lb. anchor. Then they sit there wondering why the fish don’t bite. Regardless of the conditions just because the bite is slow don’t assume the party’s over. The fish could still be there, but just recovering from their last big feed. Similar to us after a large meal… just can’t get out of the recliner. Enjoy the fact you’re on the water, slow down, relax, pay attention to what you’re doing and fish until the bite resumes. It’s called fishing…not catching.
Tampa Bay Fishing Report January 2015 January usually means cool weather, windy days and low, tides. Low tides are a good indicator of where you’re going to fish. Just remember, when the tides are negative and you’re looking around and seeing nothing but sand, at least you know where you’re not going to fish. One of the most asked questions I get is probably, “when is the best time to go fishing?” There is no perfect answer to this question, but it has always been good idea to go anytime you get the chance. There are always better days, but if you wait on the great days, you will miss many good ones. Over the years, I have discovered that moving water means moving bait and moving bait means eating fish. Therefore tides play an important role in whether you’re going to catch fish or just fish. This is why I prefer the first of the incoming or outgoing tides, because that’s when the water seems to move the most bait. Winter months normally produce some low, but strong tide movement and fishing is good during those times.
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“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” – 813-477-3814 Captain Woody Gore has been guiding and fishing the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Bradenton, and Sarasota areas for over fifty years; his level of customer service, experience and attention to detail allows him to offer world class fishing adventures Snook fishing in January means cool mornings and warmer afternoons. and a lifetime of memories. Low tides around new or full moons means fish should concentrate in potholes and the outside of bars. The season remains closed during Single or Multi-boat Group Charters are all the same. With years January, however, as long as we do not get any long, hard freezes, catch of organizational experience and access to the areas most experiand release should be okay. Search out deep-water canals, rivers, and enced captains, Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Just tell him what you need and it’s done. creeks with heat holding muddy bottoms. Bridges, pilings and deepwater docks are good places to look. Try using baits like finger mullet, Visit his website at: small ladyfish, pinfish and jumbo shrimp. And don’t forget about divWWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM ing lures fished slowly along or near structure. Later in the day look for sandy shoals and sunning snook. Often soft plastics worked slowly send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com along the bottom should result in some nice fish. Do not forget docks or give him a call at 813-477-3814 especially those with lights at night.
Snook
Redfish
Winter weather normally does not bother redfish. However, reds, like other fish subjected to extreme low water temperatures, can get lockjaw. There are usually plenty of good fish hanging around a variety of areas like shallower grass flats, oyster bars, docks and jetties. Reds are not fussy about eating artificial lures, especially soft plastic on a jig head. Try tipping each jig with a small piece of shrimp. It does wonders around docks.
Spotted Sea Trout
Incoming or outgoing tides, live shrimp, artificial shrimp, Popper Corks and any good grass flat will produce nice trout. Seek out and target pothole on broken bottom flats, trout like lying in and around potholes. Broken bottoms mean grass flats dotted with sandy potholes or rocky bottoms. Drifting flats and tossing artificial lures will produce plenty of fun and often larger fish. Remember, potholes hold large trout.
Cobia
If we get some good cold fronts dropping the water temperatures, it should send the cobia looking for warmer water. The beaches and near shore waters should start showing fish sunning themselves near the surface. Whenever fishing sandy flats keep an eye open for large rays since cobia often cruise with them looking for a quick meal. Big shrimp, small crabs, large greenbacks or pinfish will work.
Other
Sheepshead will be everywhere this time of year especially around docks, bridges, rock piles and oyster bars. Try using green mussels, shrimp or oysters. Small jigs tipped with shrimp work good around dock and oysters. Ladyfish, jack crevalle, blue fish are always a fun way to bend a rod. WWW.IN NTHE HEFIELD IELDMAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM WWW.
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Smokin’ WE’RE
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The flavor of a strawberry is influenced by weather, the variety and stage of ripeness when harvested. Lean cuts of beef have 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat and less than 95 milligrams of cholesterol (per 3-ounce serving). Americans eat 3.4 pounds of fresh strawberries each year plus another 1.8 pounds frozen per capita. 20 of the 29 lean beef cuts have, on average, only 1 more gram of saturated fat than a skinless chicken breast per 3-ounce serving. Over 53 percent of seven to nine year olds picked strawberries as their favorite fruit. Beef has 8 times more vitamin B12, 6 times more zinc and 2.5 times more iron than a skinless chicken breast. Current research suggests that eating just 8 strawberries a day can improve heart health, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, reduce the risk of cancers and even improve cognitive function. A 3-ounce serving of lean beef contributes less than 10% of the calories in a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet. Strawberries score in the fruit group with the highest antioxidant values, which can help to prevent cataracts and other eye degeneration. A substantial body of evidence shows protein can help in maintaining a healthy weight, building muscle and fueling physical activity — all of which play an important role in a healthful lifestyle and disease prevention. 3/28/14 10:15 AM
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As a child one of my greatest fears was going to the doctor and getting those shots at school. I remember being somewhat terrified sitting in the doctor’s waiting room. I tried running out the front door when they called my name. I’ll never forget the time I stuck a button up my nose. Dad took me to Dr. Middlebrooks’ office on the second floor above White’s Central Pharmacy in Plant City. He put me flat on my back on a table. Then he grabbed a pair of needle-nose pliers. I know were a foot long. I still recall shivering like a dog trying to pass a peach seed as he approached me like a kamikaze pilot during World War II on his last run with those gigantic pliers. When it was all over I realized I had over reacted. No pain what so ever. Dr. Middlebrooks took the button and pinned it on my shirt, telling me I was a good boy during the ordeal. Over the years I have learned a lot about the human body. For instances, during our lifetime we produce enough saliva to fill two swimming pools. Actually, saliva is more important than you might realize. If your saliva cannot dissolve something, you cannot taste it. They say your nose can remember 50,000 different scents. But if you’re a woman, you are a better smeller than men, and will remain a better smeller throughout life. By 60 years of age, 60% of men and 40% of women will snore. I recall a few years back while waiting for my wife, who was in for a regular checkup, an elderly lady sitting next to me started talking. She said, “Are you sick?” “No”, I replied. “Just waiting for my wife.” “Well, I’m waiting for my husband. Seems like we come in here every month. He’s really having some problems!” A few minutes later her husband comes out, and they leave. That left me as the only person in the waiting room. The nurse came over laughing. She said, “That couple is hilarious. We really enjoy them. Last month when they came for a check up, the doctor looked him over, and said Fred you look fine!” “That’s what I keep telling Gertrude. God takes care of me,” Fred replied. The doctor said, “What do you mean”? “Well,” Fred responded, “When I go to the bathroom he turns the light on and off.” The nurse continued, “The doctor decided he had better talk to both Fred and his wife, so he called Gertrude into his office and begins to explain, “Fred says God turns the light on and off for him when he goes to the bathroom. Is that true?” 22
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“DOG GONE IT, Fred!” Gertrude burst out, “How many times do I have tell you not to tinkle in the refrigerator?” Before my wife’s father passed away I asked the lady who was doing his home health care if anything humorous ever happens between she and her patients. She thought for a moment, started to laugh, and said, “I had a patient who was very demanding and always complaining. I remember the time she had a real bad stomach virus that required me to make daily visits for about a week. One morning I went in and she was sitting at the kitchen table looking green around the gills. I said, “You don’t look like you feel well.” She looked me dead in the eyes and said, “No, I am not alright. That doctor is going to have to do something about those dad blame pills he gave me. They are too big to swallow. I have to cut them in half, and to top it all off, they are slimy and make me gag when I try to get them down.” She continued, “I nearly died laughing when I realized that the “pills” were glycerin suppositories.” I love the story of George, the mechanic, who was removing a cylinder head from a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, when he spotted a noted world-famous heart surgeon in his garage. The surgeon was waiting for the service manager to come and take a look at his bike. George shouted across the garage, “Hey Doc may I ask you a question?” The surgeon, a bit surprised, walk over to George. George straightened up, wiped his hands on a rag and asked, “Look at this engine. I also can open hearts, take valves out, fix’um, put in new parts and when I finish this will work just like a new one. So how come I work for a pittance and you get the big bucks when we both are doing basically the same work?” The surgeon paused, smiled and leaned over and whispered in George’s ear, “Try doing it with the engine running.” Did you hear the story of Gene, an elderly man, who was seated in the doctor’s waiting room? When he was called in to see the doctor, Gene slowly got up, grasping his cane and hunching over, slowly made his way into the examining room. After only a few minutes, Gene emerged from the room, walking completely upright. Paul, another patient who had watched him hobble into the room all hunched over, stared in amazement. “That must be a miracle doctor in there,” he exclaimed. “What treatment did he give you? What’s his secret?” Gene stared at Paul and said, ‘Well, the doctor looked me up and down, analyzed the situation, and gave me a cane that was four inches longer than the one I had been using.” In closing, a famous surgeon went on a safari in Africa. When he came back, his colleagues asked him how it had been. “Oh, it was very disappointing,’ he said. ‘I didn’t kill a thing. I’d have been better off staying here in the hospital.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
C l a m s h e l l M a n u fact u r i n g 路 T r ac e a bi l i t y S o lu t io n s F u l l S e r v i c e L a b e l P r o d u c t i o n 路 L a b e l A p p l i c at i o n
www.highcor.com 888.395.5000 Plant City, FL 33563 WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
®
Save $2.00 on Adult & $1.00 on Youth General Admission Tickets at Publix
FEB. 26 - MAR. 8, 2015 • PLANT CITY, FLORIDA Artists Appearing on the
Bobby Vinton
Thu. Feb. 26, 3:30 $15 & $20
Soundstage:
Alabama
Thu. Feb. 26, 7:30 $40
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
Newsboys
Thur. Mar. 5, 3:30 $15 & $20
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
While online, check out the Free Entertainment, Midway Specials, Discounted Days, and Full Schedule of Festival Events.
Free Grandstand 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
3:30 & 7:30pm Seating is on a first come, first seated basis. Concert dates and times are subject to change
Candyland Warehouse•Stingray Chevrolet•Mosaic•Alessi Bakery•AMSCOT•Carolina Carports•Astin Farms•DIRECTV•Verizon Wireless Netterfield’s Concessions•Florida Blue•Southern Ford Dealers•Outcast Watersports•Florida’s Best•Bionic Band•Images Everywhere! TECO•Good Health Saunas•CHOBANI•Florida Dairy Farmers•Nathan’s•Diamond Resorts Int’l•Bright House Networks•Hershey’s ® 24
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Stop by our produce stand and pick up some delicious strawberries. We’re sure they’ll make any occasion. berry special!
Our produce stand is now open.
Located at the corner of Rice and County Line Road | 813.478.3486 or 813.754.4852 | FancyFarms.com
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
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YOUNG FARMERS AND RANCHERS AND COLLEGIATE FFA HOSTING APPRECIATION DINNER By Jim Frankowiak Former National FFA Secretary Landan Schaffert to Speak
National FFA Week will have special attention this year thanks to an appreciation dinner open to all Hillsborough County FFA Chapters. The dinner has been organized by Hillsborough County Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers and Ranchers group and the Collegiate FFA Chapter based at the University of Florida – Plant City Center. The event is scheduled for the evening of February 24 at 6:00 p.m. and is open to all middle and high school FFA chapters in the county. The evening’s program will include a special presentation by guest speaker and former National FFA officer Landan Schaffert, a special presentation from Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and the “For the Future” scholarship jackets will be awarded. Exciting door prizes will also be presented throughout the evening. The Young Farmers and Ranchers program of the American Farm Bureau Federation is open to men and women between the ages of 18 – 35 to provide leadership in building a more effective Farm Bureau to preserve individual freedoms and to expand opportunities in agriculture. The mission of Collegiate FFA is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agriculture education. This is 28
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achieved through service and engagement activities. Schaffert is a motivational speaker with a passion for instilling within others a belief in their potential to achieve greatness. Legally blind since birth, he shares stories from his unique life experiences to bring laughter, reflection and motivation to his audiences. Schaffer grew up on his family’s farm and ranch operation near Otis, Colorado where he developed a love for agriculture. His family primarily grows irrigated corn and dryland wheat and they raise Angus cattle. In 2008, as a senior in high school, Schaffert served as student body president. That same year, he received a Boettcher Scholarship, considered the most prestigious, merit-based scholarship and academic award in the State of Colorado. An active member of FFA since the ninth grade, Schaffert was elected a state FFA officer in Colorado in 2009 and in 2010 he was elected National FFA Secretary. He is currently in the final semester of his senior year at Colorado State University, pursuing a double major in Political Science and Agriculture Business. After completing his undergraduate education, Schaffert plans to become a high school science teacher and simultaneously continue his speaking career. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
“No other organization has had a more profound or endearing influence on the course of my life than FFA,” said Schaffer. “FFA provided me with countless experiences to put my love for public speaking into action. It allowed me to teach others about the importance and inner-workings of the agriculture industry and to notify them of the need for more people to become involved in the food production process to help find innovative solutions as to how to meet the growing demand for food, fiber and energy with the ever-growing world population.” “For the Future” is a scholarship program through the Young Farmers and Ranchers group in Hillsborough County. “The scholarship was established to aid students in Agriculture Education programs to attain their very own official FFA jacket,” said Young Farmers and Ranchers Chair Tiffany Dale. Scholarship applicants must complete an application, submit a letter of recommendation and an essay detailing why they should be selected for a scholarship. Three scholarship jackets will be presented during the appreciation dinner program. Additional information on the scholarship program is available by emailing: yfr.hcfb@ gmail.com. Hillsborough County middle and high school FFA chapters wishing to attend the appreciation dinner are to respond by email to Erin Nessmith at ENessmith@ufl.edu. Reservation requests will be honored on a first come, first served basis as dinner seating is limited. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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In Loving Memory a
Charles Randall Carlisle
Charles Randall Carlisle was called home on January 14, 2015. He is preceded in death by his father Charles H Carlisle, his mother Peggy R. Tanner and son Joshua. He is survived by his wife of 25 years Melinda, children Layla Drawdy (Dustin), Tiffany Lewis (Brian), Charlie Carlisle (Jenna), Christina Jones (Will), grandchildren William Drawdy, Stephen Drawdy, Dax Drawdy, Abel Drawdy, Joshua Lewis, Zack Jones, Nathan Jones, Christiana Jones and Isaiah Jones. Siblings Sandra Warren, Joani Henderson (Wayne), David “Red” Carlisle, Jill Yates (Chuck), and Katrina Michael (Jamie) and many nieces and nephews. He was a beloved husband, daddy, brother, uncle, son and pappy. He was born and raised in Plant City. He was a member of IUOE Local 925 and worked for Moretrench for many years and was the hardest working man you would ever meet. He was loved by many and will never be forgotten.
John 14:1-4 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.”
Thank you to our loyal customers for the past 23 years of business, we would not be here without you.
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Call our office for informaaon on a dealer near you. (813) 623-5449 or Toll Free (800) 741-5450
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Part 5 By Ginny Mink
Ornamental Gardening in Florida
Whence last we left the Literary Time Machine, Charles Torrey Simpson (author of Ornamental Gardening in Florida) was expounding on Spanish style architecture and the tackiness of too much statuary or yard ornaments. If you had the book in hand you’d next read about fern pools and his experiences creating them in his own yard. You’d also find his suggestions to turn those blown up phosphate holes all over the state into, “beauty spots.”¹ However, since you don’t have the book, we are going to skip right along to his chapter entitled Miscellaneous Ornaments because there’s a charmingly well written (and somewhat sarcastic- as he’s known to provide) paragraph we’d like to share. He says, “The average person who locates in Florida in a region where there is open water is desirous of having a water front. A view over water is always delightful; it appeals even to those who are entirely destitute of taste. Many would like to own a boat or to fish or have a wharf; hence a water front is always a desideratum.”¹ Certainly those of us whom have lived in Florida any length of time and have had the occasion to be near the water would agree that waterfront property is a desideratum (something wanted or needed). Yet, as he points out, once it’s attained, most of us screw it up. He adds, “No sooner does the average man possess a water front than he considers it necessary to build a sea wall along it. In nine cases out of ten there isn’t the slightest need for it; he simply builds it because it is supposed to be the correct thing, because it is the fashion to do it, just as he would wear a collar a foot high around his neck if the other fellows did.”¹ You know you’re laughing right now! He stays on that line of thought, systematically blasting the concept of sea walls, though he does admit there are rare instances in which one might be necessary. He concedes, “There are cases where the sea or a stream is encroaching on the land and a wall is needed but as a general thing it is not, and it is only a blot on the landscape…when all is done it gives one the impression that the country is involved in war and that the whole construction is a line of fortifications…”¹ Most of us have never imagined sea walls to look this way and no doubt that’s because of the abundance of said structures. How amazing it must have been to live in a sea-wall-less time in Florida history! Torrey Simpson backs his disdain for the sea walls being created by continuing, “Most of the shores of brackish water in the peninsular part of the state are bordered by a fringe of mangroves and other trees and shrubs that love the salt of the sea. No device that was ever constructed could equal this growth as a protection against the encroachment of the ocean. It is a very rare thing that even the severest hurricane does any serious damage to this nature-planted sea wall.”¹ Indeed, it is man that does the greatest damage to all of nature! In fact that’s exactly what he says, “Nevertheless the owner gets an ax or has someone else get it and slaughters every tree. Then, with infinite labor, he digs a trench and builds a cement or rock wall which the next severe storm or hurricane is almost sure to demolish.”¹ Why do we fight so much with God’s great design? Do we really think we can improve on His perfection?
most of it that we see in grounds is entirely lacking in artistic qualities or even hideous…The same thing may be said about fountains as they are usually highly artificial and do not fit well in any natural scheme of landscape gardening.”¹ Quite humorously he inserts, “I cannot understand the motive that leads so many designers of fountains to construct figures of humans and animals that throw water from their mouths…they seem to me to be in the worst kind of taste.”¹ Who really wants a spewing statue in the midst of their azaleas anyway? Perhaps the greatest comment in this section of the book, due to its’ historicity is, “Since the automobile has come into such common use…”¹ One has to shake one’s head at the thought that the author lived in a time in which the automobile wasn’t in common use. In fact, he’s talking about having to design one’s homestead to accommodate cars pulling up to the house. We’ll close this adventure then with his directive, “Don’t undertake too much; simplicity is generally better than anything complicated, let whatever you do be for a purpose.”¹ Indeed, that advice bodes well for gardening and life in general! Fern Pool Plant Suggestions: Alocasias Peperomias Begonias Pellionia Dieffenbachias Ficus quercifolia Thrinax palms Aloes Rhoeo Agaves Furcraeas Anthuriums Colocasia Xanthosoma Ficus repens Ampelopsis Canavalias¹ ¹ Simpson, Charles T. (1926). Ornamental Gardening in Florida. Published by the Author; Little River, FL. Printed by J.J. Little and Ives Company, New York. (p. 17-26).
Torrey Simpson has equal disdain for statuary and fountains and in fact, continues to berate them in this chapter. He emphatically writes, “Statuary should never be introduced into small places, in fact it would be better to leave it out of the ordinary garden altogether. The WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Florida
Spaghetti Squash By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
Fresh Florida spaghetti squash is delicious, fun, and healthy to eat. Unique to spaghetti squash is the texture of its flesh, which flakes off into long noodle-like strands when cooked. In fact, this type of squash makes an easy, nutritious pasta substitute when tossed with marinara sauce or fresh vegetables. Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash, also called “vegetable squash” or “noodle squash.” Though available year-round in most grocery stores, this squash is in its peak season now in the cool winter months. The outer shell can be ivory, pale or bright yellow, or even orange, while the inner flesh is yellow with seeds in the middle. The seeds, like pumpkin seeds, can be roasted in the oven for a delicious snack. NUTRITIONAL PROFILE Spaghetti squash contains a lot of vitamins and minerals for very few calories. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one cup of cooked spaghetti squash (155 g) contains 42 calories, 1 g protein, 0.4 g fat, 10 g carbohydrate, and 2.2 g of dietary fiber. It also provides 9% of the Daily Recommended Value (%DV) for vitamin C, 8% for vitamin B6 and manganese, 6% for niacin, 5% for potassium, and significant amounts of magnesium, thiamin, vitamins A, E, and K, folate, zinc, and copper. HEART-HEALTHY NUTRIENTS Many of the nutrients in squash work together to make it a hearthealthy food. The magnesium in squash reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke, while both magnesium and potassium help to reduce high blood pressure. The vitamin C and beta-carotene found in squash prevent cholesterol buildup in the arteries, which can lead to atherosclerosis and heart disease. Additionally, the fiber found in squash has been shown to lower high cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar levels, which reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes. VITAMIN C: FOR A STRONG IMMUNE SYSTEM With only 40 calories per cup, one serving of spaghetti squash can meet almost 10% of your daily vitamin C requirement. This vitamin is important for a healthy immune system, cancer prevention, healthy blood circulation and wound healing. Vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant in the body, neutralizing harmful free radicals and preventing its damaging effects in cells. By fighting cell and tissue damage, Vitamin C protects against cancer and other diseases, such as the common cold. This vitamin also enhances iron absorption from WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
other foods, which reduces the risk of anemia. Additionally it aids in the development and maintenance of healthy capillaries, gums, and skin, as well as strong bones and teeth. MANGANESE: FOR NUTRIENT METABOLISM Spaghetti squash is a fantastic source of manganese. This mineral is necessary for the utilization and balanced metabolism of many other nutrients. Manganese is involved in the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol and is essential for the production of sex and thyroid hormones. Manganese is also important in skeletal and connective tissue development, and is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body. HOW TO SELECT AND STORE When shopping, choose spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size. Look for firm skin that is free of nicks, bruises, and soft spots. Whole spaghetti squash can be stored for up to three months at room temperature when kept in a cool, dry location. Cut squash should be wrapped in plastic and refrigerated. Wash squash immediately before using. HOW TO ENJOY Because of its mild flavor and pleasant texture, spaghetti squash is very versatile and can be eaten in almost any way imaginable! It can be eaten roasted, grilled, baked, boiled, steamed, or microwaved. It can be substituted for pasta in any dish. The large inner seeds can also be roasted and eaten, and is high in protein, fiber, and zinc. Other ways to enjoy spaghetti squash include: • Steam and season with fresh herbs or tomato sauce • Bake with other vegetables in a casserole • Scoop out seeds and stuff inner cavity with vegetables, meat, or cheese, and bake • Top with spicy peanut sauce • Season with salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese Enjoy delicious Florida spaghetti squash today and every day. With its mild flavor and beautiful color, spaghetti squash is a nutritious treat all year long. SELECTED REFERENCES http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mv141 http://www.whfoods.com http://www.florida-agriculture.comz INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Dry Creek is getting there
America’s First Frontier
By Les McDowell
Photos by Linda Constant
What a great couple of weeks back into production with Dry Creek. It has been a whirlwind of folks creating, fueled by passion.
natural in acting, than to teach an actor how to ride, work with a whip and handle everything that comes with the territory.
Ann Carpenter, Dry Creek’s head writer, flew down from Chicago a month before production and started to work on episodes along with Gene Bicknell and myself. As we set around the writing table, folks from Old Florida’s past jumped out at us onto the written page. Their stories have been lived and needed to be written in script form to come back alive.
We were going to have Bones Mizzell ride into this episode but the time is not right. When we do have him appear on Dry Creek we want the viewer to say, “Wow, that’s Bones Mizzell, who has ridden right off the pages of a Fredrick Remington drawing.”
Bones Mizell, the Cow Hunter of all Cow Hunters kept coming to the surface of the table and in our conversations. What a bigger than life character of early Florida. We looked to cast just the right actor to play the role. I looked at real life cow hunters to do the role. It’s easier to get a real Cow Hunter and get him to be 38
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This episode currently in production introduces a young character called Abby Moore. She’s a little spark plug, tomboy with a mind of her own. We searched and thought about bringing someone in from Los Angeles or Orlando, but less than a week before filming was to begin we found Abby. She comes from a 4th generation Cow Hunter family. She lives three miles from where we film Dry Creek. Her name is Meadowe Gross and she is our Abby. Billy Ray Hunter, seen on the TV series Man WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Trackers, was cast as an Albrittion from early Florida history. Billy, who’s roots are planted deep in the Florida sand, brings with him Cracker Horses and Cattle to help tell the stories of Dry Creek. We are lining up Seminoles to play a BIG part of our stories. The story cannot be told without their casting. We are getting there, folks. Even the camera we are using in this current episode in production, is a movie camera, the same used on the new 007 Skyfall movie and the TV series, Hell on Wheels. Dry Creek is making great strides and thank The Lord for supplying what we need to tell the stories of Dry Creek and early Florida. Everybody knows where Dry Creek is....cause “it’s inside each and everyone of us.”
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Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP) Exams Now On Computerized System
By Susan Haddock, Commercial Horticulture/IPM/Small Farms Agent
Applying for a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP) License is a multi-step process that involves determining which license you need, adequately preparing for examinations, applying for the examination, and scheduling the examination. Beginning this year the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County office will be administering RUP license exams on secure computers at the Extension Office. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) provided the secure computers to Extension offices to expedite the licensing process and reduce paperwork processing. The computer based exams are only available at Extension offices and are not available on-line at your home or other locations. Pesticide applicator prospects must complete a registration process on the FDACS website. This registration eliminates the old Notification of Exam Results paperwork. After registration the applicant schedules an exam date and time through the UF/IFAS Pesticide Exam website. Many Extension offices provide a set day once a month to administer 42
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exams. Other offices provide exam schedules based on the exam administrator’s availability. The UF/IFAS Pesticide Exam website provides a link to all the Extension office schedules offering exams. If you are unable to navigate the computerized system contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Office for assistance or to schedule a special circumstance exam session. The new computerized system expedites the licensing process by providing exam results immediately upon completion of the exam session and by providing license applications by email. If time slots are available, exams may be retaken the same day. This replaces a system where exams had to be mailed to FDACS for grading, and license applications and fees were mailed between the applicant and FDACS. Essentially, a minimum of three weeks is saved in paper processing time. With any new system there are a few challenges. The computerized system permits two hours for each exam, so an applicant may take a maximum of two exams per exam sesWWW. WWW.IN NTHE HEFIELD IELDMAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
sion day. FDACS provided Hillsborough County Extension with seven exam computers, so a maximum of 14 exams can be scheduled per exam session day. During high demand times of the year, scheduling an exam may be challenging. My message is: do not wait until the last minute to schedule an exam, especially if your employment is dependent upon the pesticide license. The following web site, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough ProHort: Florida Pesticide Licensing and CEUs has information that will help you determine which exams you need to take, what study materials will help you prepare for exams, where to obtain study materials, and information about taking exams. http://hillsborough.ifas.ufl.edu/prohort/pesticide_licenses/ index.shtml Procedure to Apply for Restricted Use Pesticide Examinations
Go to the following web site: https://pesticideexam.ifas.ufl.edu/ Select “Apply for Examination”. This will redirect you to the FDACS Environmental Services Licensing Web Site. Enter your e-mail address and PIN. If you do not have a PIN select “Sign Up”. Select “Login” On the center of the page select: “Apply for Restricted Use Pesticide New License”
On the center of the page select “Exam Application: Apply to Obtain Exam Voucher”
Select the license type. Private: making applications to your own or only your employer’s property Public: you work directly for a governmental entity (City, County, State, DOT, etc.) Commercial: you make applications for hire or as a contract business Enter all required information. Select “NEXT” at the bottom WWW. WWW.IN NTHE HEFIELD IELDMAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
of the page. Select the exams you need to take. You may schedule up to 2 exams per test session. Select “REVIEW” at the bottom of the page. Review information and Acknowledge if correct, if not correct, select “EDIT” and make corrections. Select “SUBMIT” at the bottom of the page. You may now email the confirmation to yourself or print your confirmation. You must have the VOUCHER NUMBER to schedule exams.
Procedure to Schedule Examinations
Once you have completed the above process you must schedule your exam from the UF/IFAS Extension website. You may select the link on that page or go back to the original page at: https://pesticideexam.ifas.ufl.edu/ Select “Schedule Examination”. Enter your Voucher Number and Last Name. Select “Schedule examination”. Verify the information. Select “Schedule Examination” next to the exam. Choose the County location where you want to test. Example: select “View Test Schedule” next to Hillsborough to schedule exam at UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough. Register for a time slot. Print the page and bring to the exam session. Arrive 15 minutes before the session. You must have the Voucher Number to take exams. Exit Exam Scheduling. You have completed the process to register for your exams. Good Luck. You will receive your exam results as soon as you complete the exam. You may contact the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences (FDACS) Bureau of Licensing and Enforcement at (850)617-7997 or your local UF/IFAS Extension Office for assistance with additional questions.
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Treasure Hunting …
Your Missing Money May Be Waiting For You! by John Dicks
Most everyone has dreamed at one time or another over the fantasy of finding buried treasure and the riches that it might behold. Finding something that was long thought lost or even forgotten about can evoke the same delight of newly found wealth. Fortunately, through the wonders of the Internet and with a click of your computer mouse, you can search for what might be yours without even picking up a shovel, much less digging into a buried hole. Deep within the halls of the Florida Department of Financial Services, and specifically in the Bureau of Unclaimed Property, our Chief Financial Officer, Jeff Atwater, is entrusted with the safekeeping of an estimated more than $1 Billion of unclaimed property and other accounts. Most of it is from dormant accounts in financial institutions, insurance and utility companies, securities and trust holdings. Along with the money and securities, other unclaimed items includes tangible property such as watches, jewelry, coins, currency, stamps, historical items and other miscellaneous articles from abandoned safe deposit boxes. Florida is one of about 40 states in the Union that keep such items and accounts with the intention of returning them to the rightful owner. In Florida’s case, it is the responsibility of our Chief Financial Officer to do so. The difficulty, though, is that even in this age of the Internet, instant communications and social media, finding the rightful owners appears not to be easy. Certainly, too, it’s expensive to hunt down individuals whose addresses have changed, as well as sometimes even their names. So Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, similar I am sure to what is done in other states, relies upon people to periodically check its database to see whether something you’ve been missing suddenly appears. The program of reuniting property with owners, or often the heirs of deceased owners, got started over 50 years ago. It’s been estimated that more than $1.6 Billion in unclaimed property held in Florida has been returned or distributed. But there’s still that current $1 Billion still sitting there! The amazing thing is that just in Florida there are about 10 Million claimable accounts. Granted, they might be small amounts, such as the few dollars of interest that didn’t get credited to you when you closed a bank account, but it can also amount to more, such as an insurance policy that matured and never was paid. The money works its way to Tallahassee from businesses, which are originally the holders of the unclaimed property. They are required to attempt locating the owner, but when such attempts fail, 46
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the business reports the property and the owner’s name, last known address and other information to the Department. As an example of the extent of this process, it was reported that following the collapse of Washington Mutual Bank, a $29 million deposit was made into the Bureau of Unclaimed Property by the FDIC for the benefit of over 150 thousand accounts! While the unclaimed money is hanging out in Tallahassee waiting for someone to show it some love, it is at least put to good use by being deposited into the state school fund, where it is used for public education. But it’s still always available to the rightful owner since there is no statute of limitations, and citizens have the right to claim their property at any time, and at no cost. Florida has made the process quite simple for searching and claiming what might be rightfully yours. It will take you only a few minutes online, and if you find some positive results, there are listed details on how to stake your claim. You can find it all by going to: www.FLTreasureHunt.org. You can search the website for free. I’d suggest that while searching, you might want to include a search for your relatives, friends and neighbors. I’m sure that they would thank you forever if you helped them find even the smallest amounts of cash for the taking. It would be wise, too, to search the names of deceased relatives since the heirs can be entitled to make a claim. Finally, there is one word of caution to consider. From time to time, there are companies offering services as search firms seeking to process a claim on your behalf and charging a fee to recover any unclaimed property. Remember, the process online is simple to do yourself and it is free to do so. Frankly, you might just find the process fascinating to find out who is entitled to what! John Dicks is both a Lawyer and a Farmer. He and his family own a Blueberry Farm and have Agricultural lands which they lease for cattle operations, as John says, “to someone who knows and handles cattle much better than I do!” John is both a Gator, having received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and a Seminole, with his Law Degree from Florida State University. He and his wife, Sharon, live in Plant City, where he served nine years as City Commissioner, including three years as Mayor. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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s e p i c e R These recipes come from WWW.STRAWBERRYSUE.COM
Florida Strawberry Dutch Oven Cobbler Filling Topping 3 cups frozen Florida strawberries 2 1/4 cups baking mix 1 can of sliced peaches 1/3 cup sugar 1/2 cup biscuit baking mix
1/4 cup sugar, plus 1/4 cup 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature 1/2 cup milk 1 tsp vanilla 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
DIRECTIONS Lightly grease the Dutch oven and pre- dough and drop onto the the fruit in the Dutch oven. Sprinkle with the remaining heat oven to 350°F. 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon. Combine the frozen Florida strawberries and peaches into a large mixing bowl. Bake for 45 minutes or until the bisToss fruit with sugar and baking mix cuits have risen to a golden brown with until well coated, then pour Dutch oven. fruit bubbling through the cracks in the dough. Next mix baking mix, 1/4 cup sugar, softened butter, milk and vanilla just until Remove from the oven and let cool a combined. It’s ok if this is lumpy. Using bit before serving with vanilla bean ice your hands or a spoon, scoop out balls of cream or your favorite whipped topping!
Sweet Florida Strawberry Honey Butter INGREDIENTS
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1/3 cup honey 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup hulled and coarsely chopped fresh Florida strawberries 2 tsp of orange zest 50
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DIRECTIONS Using an electric mixer set to high, beat butter, honey, and salt until light and fluffy. This should take about one minute. Add strawberries and orange zest, and with the mixer turned off, gently crush the strawberries into the butter. Mix on medium just until combined, about 30 seconds. The acidity in the orange zest balances the richness of the butter. With a spatula, transfer the Sweet Florida Strawberry Honey Butter to a ramekin and let it rest for about 15 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve atop warm biscuits and enjoy! February 2015
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The Biopesticide Company Melocon is a registered trademark of Bayer Crop Science. Screen Duo is a registered trademark of Crop Microclimate Management Inc. Cueva is a registered trademark W. Neudorff GmbH KG. Kocide is a registered trademark of Kocide LLC. All others are registered trademarks of Certis USA LLC.
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1-800-250-5024 • www.CertisUSA.com Š2015 Certis USA
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The Wild Guava Nursery By Nick Chapman
If you find yourself walking amid banana trees and guavas, passion fruit and fig trees, you might think you’re in a tropical paradise, but you might just be visiting The Wild Guava booth at a local fresh market. Sean and Jessica O’Toole started their fledgling business in May of last year, and already their success is starting to bloom. The Wild Guava specializes in rare fruit trees and tropical edible plants. “We stock mostly subtropical plants that will grow here, like Star Fruit, Mango, Avocado, Bananas, Guavas and Tropical Cherries, just to name a few,” noted Sean. “Many people underestimate what you can grow here,” add Jessica. “All of our plants are very much suited for Central Florida.” “We want people to grow their own food and be successful at it,” said Jessica. “Everybody has a plant they can grow, we just have to find it.” The Wild Guava offers total growing support on the products they sell. Customers are encouraged to contact them with any question on the growth, care or possible problems with their plants. “We tell folks just to text or email us your question, and we’ll help as much as we can.” The young couple came from Kansas where they were both involved in the restaurant business, and where their interest in fresh produce was cultivated. They started growing their own vegetables, and enjoyed being able to produce items that weren’t always available in the local markets. They were introduced to the “Food, Not Lawns” concept, and liked encouraging people to grow their own produce right at home. After a few harsh winters, they decided to find warm refuge and a longer growing season in sunny Florida. “We chose to grow exotics because it is the stuff we like to grow and 52
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eat ourselves. At first I thought we would get a couple of trees and we’d get some fruit off them here and there. Then we started to stock some of those items and people started calling, and now it has turned into a full time business that keeps us pretty busy,” Sean added. They were pleasantly surprised by the popularity of the tropical and exotic edibles, and it has allowed them to fill a niche market for customers that want to grow their own. The Wild Guava Nursery not only sells the plants, but offers other services to aid its customers. Delivery and installation is availabe on larger orders and mature trees. They also provide growing consultations and on-site recommendations if you are interested in creating an edible landscape garden at your home. Space is not a hindrance, as many of their plants can be grown successfully in pots and inside or in heavy shade. “When people go to the big-box stores, most of the the time it’s ‘Here’s your plant’ and you’re on your way,” said Jessica. “They may not even sell varieties that are appropriate for our local climate.” That’s where Sean and Jessica’s expertise can help guide you to find the right plants for your tastes and our Florida environment. There is a lot of research involved, and Sean is constantly keeping up to date on available plants and growing methods. In fact, Sean makes a point to sell items that he can successfully grow at home. One of their most popular sellers is the Miracle Fruit plant. The fruit contains a compound that changes the way a person perceives their taste (ie – sour becomes sweet). It can also enhance the ability to taste. Some early pilot studies have shown this compound called miraculin has aided chemo patients, who often have a decreased or distorted WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
sense of taste during treatments. This has helped some patients eat a greater variety of food and keep weight loss and nutrition in proper check. Their future plans include adding more green house space and expanding the line of plants and trees they offer. The Wild Guava was recently awarded a USDA grant for high tunnel green houses, and Sean hopes to establish a mature crop of Lychee trees over the next four years. “There’s so many interesting things plants can do. There are a lot of health benefits fresh produce can provide,” Jessica said. She is working on expanding the information on the plants they offer on their website to include recipes, home care and medicinal uses. Their website also provides a list of the plants they have access to obtain. “If you find a plant you’re interested in, let us know and we can bring it to the market for you to look at.”
The Wild Guava frequents several of the local farmer’s and fresh food markets in the Tampa Bay area. They typically attend the: Hyde Park market (1st Sunday of every month) Carrollwood market (2nd Saturday of every month) Seminole Heights market (2nd Sunday of every month) Ybor City & Plant City markets (alternate dates)
Their market schedule can also be found on their website, and they provide frequent updates on their Facebook page. If you wish to contact The Wild Guava nursery, call them at (813) 708-4455 or visit them at www.TheWildGuava.com. Like them on Facebook for updates or email your questions or requests at TheWildGuava@gmail.com. Jessica’s parting thought was, “You can grow your own, and we’re here to help you.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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The Lord God Bird:
Ivory-billed Woodpecker By Ginny Mink
Referred to as one of the world’s most endangered birds, the Ivorybilled woodpecker is a sight bird enthusiasts would pay for! In fact, these birds are so elusive there have been moments in history in which they’ve been thought wholly extinct.¹ There are research papers debating their continued existence, videos being dissected and argued over. So, what’s the story? We wanted to know that too and therefore, we began our own research endeavor. Perhaps what we’ve uncovered will spur you to reconsider shrugging off those pileated woodpeckers we see all the time. The truth is, you never know which animal, or plant, is next in line! The Ivory-billed woodpecker is one of the largest woodpeckers in the world and the largest to have inhabited the continental United States.² Reaching a height of 20 inches, with a wingspan 30 inches wide,¹ it earned the nickname, “Lord God bird,” after the most frequently exclaimed verbiage whenever someone had the joy of encountering it.³ This is, of course, mostly due to its size; though its’ red crest and white underwing markings are certainly breathtaking. The elusiveness of this species has earned it another nickname, “the Holy Grail of Ornithology.”¹ Most up to date texts mark 2011 as the last claimed sighting and 2004 as the last documented one. Though in truth, it’s all up for debate. Without debate however, James Tanner has been regarded as the main source for information about the bird, its’ habitat, nesting, mating and young-rearing behaviors. In 1937, he began a three year study on the bird as he completed his doctoral degree from Cornell University.¹ His studies produced the first audio recordings and the first video footage of this previously considered extinct bird. Yes, it was thought extinct as early as the 1920s!³ In fact, by the time Tanner was completing his study, he estimated that only 22 birds were still surviving within the United States.¹ The Ivory-billed woodpecker’s primary habitat is mature forestland². Unfortunately, much of that land was excavated and cleared by the 1940s due to mining and lumber mills in addition to expansive agricultural needs.⁴ This left the Ivory-bill seeking swampy bottomlands that were as of yet still untouched. However, according to Tanner, each pair requires six square miles to feed which limited population increases significantly.¹ In addition, the Ivory-bill feeds mostly on beetle larvae within dead (though still standing) trees.⁴ If forests are limited, so are the bugs needed to sustain this rare, “great chieftain of the woodpecker tribe.”² Ivory-bills have been seen, historically, from southern Illinois to Florida (and Cuba) and from east Texas to North Carolina.² However, the last three sightings in the United States have been reserved for Arkansas (in the Big Woods), Louisiana (near the Pearl River)⁵ and Florida (in the Panhandle). The Big Woods sighting was made by Gene Sparling in 2004 and was later corroborated by a number of professional ornithologists.¹ This led to an immediate uprising in 54
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study and conservation efforts as the bird had previously been considered gone. Even James Tanner, when he died in 1991, believed the bird had met the fate of the Dodo.³ Then in 2005 and 2006 researchers from Auburn University claimed to have had 13 sightings in the Panhandle, along the Choctawhatchee River.³ Sadly, all the coverage (to include the video from the Arkansas and Louisiana sightings) has failed to be universally accepted.³ Therefore, without incontrovertible evidence, we are uncertain that the Ivory-billed woodpecker still graces our planet! Yet, recovery plans and research monies are still being invested for the sake of unquenched hope in a species that has intrigued many through the years.² For those who might be in that hopeful bunch, there are some things that you’ll need to take note of in your search for this elusive, though majestic bird. First, there’s a distinct double knock they make prior to rooting into a tree.⁴ And, their call is said to sound like, “kent, kent” or a tin horn toot.⁴ In addition, they don’t lumber through the air, bumbling about like other woodpeckers, they are direct and pointed in their flight, comparable to an arrow.¹ They fly over the trees rather than weave in and out of branches. Moreover, they nest in dead (though still standing) trees about 55 feet off the ground.³ They mate for life, lay three eggs and take turns incubating them. In fact, they share parental duties with the male being the sole one responsible for night watches. Finally, they’ve no known predators.¹ To the untrained eye, it’s easy to mistake the Ivory-billed woodpecker for the far more common pileated woodpecker. However, there are some key differences. Namely, as mentioned previously, the white on the wing feathers which are notable when they fly overhead. Also, the fact that males are the only ones with red crests; females’ crests are black.¹ Finally, when the wings are folded there appears to be a white triangle (sometimes noted as a saddle) shape on the back. Of course, the ivory bill should go without saying; though many don’t realize this is a bone (not ivory) that grows into the skull throughout the life of the bird which some think is 20-30 years!⁴ On a side note, rewards ranging between $10,000 and $50,000 have been offered for those able to provide information leading to a confirmed nest, roost, feeding spot or living Ivory-billed woodpecker.¹ That’s worth keeping an eye out for! Research Sources: http://www.ivorybill.org/history-of-the-ivorybill/ http://www.fws.gov/ivorybill/ http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/a-close-encounterwith-the-rarest-bird-54437868/?all http://www.birds.cornell.edu/ivory/aboutibwo/ http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/04/110428132236.htm WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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UF MARKETING TEAM DEVELOPING ‘REAL WORLD’ BRANDED STRAWBERRY MARKETING PLAN FOR NATIONAL AGRI-MARKETING ASSOCIATION COMPETITION By Jim Frankowiak
Five Marketing Team members from the University of Florida College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Food and Resource Economics, their faculty advisor and a professional member and liaison from their local National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) chapter spent a day with the Florida Strawberry Growers Association to learn about the industry and its latest initiative, a Brand marketing approach for new varieties of Florida strawberries. The team members are in the midst of creating a “real world” marketing plan for the new FSGA brand which they will enter into a national competition under the aegis of the NAMA. The results of the competition will be unveiled at the NAMA annual meeting in Kansas City April 15 - 17. Last year, the UF team won 5th place in the competition and is considered a “team to be reckoned with” annually. “The primary purpose of the NAMA student section is to provide 58
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networking opportunities for students and agribusiness professionals prior to student graduation and entry into this career, field,” said Jennifer Clark, senior lecturer in the Food and Resource Economics Department at UF. “The networking opportunity expands student awareness of the broad spectrum of career opportunities within the agribusiness value chain and helps to define their place in it. Also, the national marketing competition exposes students to a ‘real world’ marketing plan development experience that will help them to gain proficiency in project development, team building, personal and group accountability, as well as for further develop excellent written and oral communication skills that are highly desired by industry leaders.” Florida Chapter NAMA board member and liaison with the student marketing team Dustin Bass, who manages an equestrian facility at Lady Lake, noted the strong chapter support for the students “and other industry partners such as the FSGA in the vetting process for WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
our marketing project from conception to delivery, including asking tough technical and comprehensive marketing questions.“ “We welcome industry engagement in this academic effort to develop well-prepared industry ready graduates and encourage NAMA students to remain involved with the Florida agribusiness industry by becoming members of partner associations within the state that support our efforts,” said Clark. “The timing for this is just great,” said FSGA Executive Director Kenneth Parker. “The team’s interest in developing a branded marketing concept that involved the consumer driven approach we are initiating was timely. Historically, Florida strawberries have been marketed as a commodity. To differentiate the sweet and desirable flavor of our newest and future varieties, we have been tasked to explore and develop new and creative ways to maximize grower returns by creating and maintaining satisfied customers that are demanding sweet strawberries with longer shelf life. It is also an extension of the fine partnership we have with the University of Florida.” “This success of this initial effort could very well set the stage for qualifying future UF varieties to be marketed under our trademark,” said FSGA Marketing Director Sue Harrell. “There is much work to be done in this effort from the growers learning the best way to manage growth and harvest these new branded varieties to increasing consumer awareness and consistent demand. It will be interesting to see what the students develop. They are a bright and inquisitive group and we look forward to reviewing their project entry.” In addition to information sharing sessions with Harrell and Parker, the marketing team members also participated in the Mini-Field Day held the day of their GSFA visit which gave them an opportunity to meet and speak with growers and Gulf Coast Research and Education researchers involved in the development of new strawberry varieties and creation of tools used to support growers during the season and effectively address the myriad challenges they face each season.
Marketing team members involved in the FSGA session included: Natalie Miaoulis – a senior majoring in food and resource economics with International Specialization. She is currently enrolled in the four plus one master’s program to pursue masters in Agribusiness. Natalie has two hometowns, Bronson, FL and Abaco, Bahamas. After graduation she plans on taking over the U.S. branch of her family business, Abaco Neem.
Emily Taylor – a fourth year student from Jacksonville, Emily is majoring in Food & Resource Economics with a specialization in Marketing and Management. She plans to pursue a career in retail or hospitality management. Erica Laboissoniere – is a senior FRE Marketing and Management major earning college-level honors recognition by exContinued on page 74 WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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AREA AGRICULTURALISTS HOST TOURS
By Jim Frankowiak
Florida and tourism, that’s a match that’s been going and growing for years. It should be no surprise that Ag industry operations are among popular stops. No, this is not agri-tourism, though that is a growth area for visitors, but a chance for out-of-state producers, or those with an interest in agriculture visiting Ag operations here in the Sunshine State, to learn and share information about common challenges and opportunities. Two such tours recently took place at locations in Hillsborough and Polk counties and that included visits and discussions with area Farm Bureau members. The first was a group of attendees at the State Ag and Rural Leaders Agriculture Chairs Summit. These were northern state legislators and lawmakers form Canadian provinces. Farm Bureau members hosted nine additional tour groups last month with both domestic and international participants. Since 2001, the Summit has been providing a non-partisan, unparalleled educational opportunity for elected officials from the U.S. and Canada with an interest in agriculture and rural communities to work together, collaborate and create problem-solving partnerships. The 2015 Summit focused on issues that they face as leaders in rural policy and provided tour participants a glimpse of agriculture in central Florida. 64
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The Summit tour included stops at Fancy Farms and a chance to visit and converse with strawberry growers Carl and Dee Dee Grooms. There were also stops at Dennis Carlton’s strawberry fields and his cattle operation at Audubon Ranch north of Plant City. Some of the tour participants had the opportunity to visit the Feld Elephant Breeding Farm near Polk City in Polk County. Another tour held later in January was organized in conjunction with the National Farmers Union Women’s Conference as part of a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant offering Annie’s Project risk management education to farm women. The mission of Annie’s Project is to empower farm women to be better business partners through networks and by managing and organizing critical information to aid in decision-making. It is based on the life of a farm woman who grew up in a small town in northern Illinois. Her goal was to marry a farmer and she did. Annie (Annette Kohlhagen Fleck) was married to a farmer for 50 years and they had four children and a series of successful agricultural endeavors. Farm women have diverse backgrounds, some which prepare them well for the responsibilities of running a farm business. Other women come into farming operations by way of marriage or a result of family members dying and leaving them in charge. Through Annie’s Project, which was founded by her daughter, Ruth Fleck WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Hambleton, the skills Annie developed to aid the successful management and operation of her varied family ag businesses are used by Ruth to mentor and educate farm women. Annie’s Project is housed at Iowa State University (http://www. extension,iastate.edu/annie/). Tour participants had the opportunity to visit and speak with strawberry farmers Michelle Williamson of G and F Farms and Hilda Castillo of Castillo Farms, plus tour Keel and Curley Winery followed by lunch catered by Smokin Aces BBQ. Dr. Martie Gillen, who is a member of the University of Florida faculty and recipient of the USDA grant, noted Annie’s Project will be offered in Suwannee, Sarasota, Marion and Osceola counties in Florida later this year. Special thanks to tour participants and Feld/Ringling Brothers’ Leigh Moyers and Janice Aria, Glenda McNary of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Executive Director Judi Whitson and Dr. Harold Browning of he Citrus Research and Education Foundation for their assistance with the development and staging of these tours.
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Congratulates
Durant High School FFA Sweetheart
Rayne Smith
Photo Courtesy of: Berry Sweet Memories by Dee Dee 66
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Queen: Rayne Smith 1st: Jessica Tillis 2nd: Haley Rile WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Tractor Driving Florida FFA is happy to announce the results of the 2015 High School District Tractor Driving Career Development Event. High School students from around the District came to compete in the event held, January 20, 2015 at the Hillsborough Community College campus in Plant City. The winner of this year’s District Tractor Driving competition was Jake Helmer from Lennard FFA. Jake will be advancing to the State level competition held May, 3, 2015 in Haines City.
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Winner Jake Helmer
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FSGA HOSTS ‘MINI’ FIELD DAY FOSTERING GROWER-RESEARCHER DIALOGUE By Jim Frankowiak
January is typically a busy month for strawberry growers, but it’s also a good time for them to update researchers on the challenges of the season and for researchers to bring growers up-to-date on their various initiatives. To accomplish both the Florida Strawberry Growers Association hosted a Mini-Field Day at its headquarters east of Plant City. The session began with an update from Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) Director Dr. Jack Rechcigl, who reported on office and graduate student dorm expansions at the center as well as the introduction of new molecular biologist Dr. Seonghee Lee and horticulturalist Dr. Shinsuke Agehara, Dr. Rechcigl also told the attendees that he was awaiting response from the top candidate for the strawberry entomologist vacancy at the GCREC. “We appreciate the ongoing support from the growers for many of the advances taking place at the center,” he said. Agricultural economist Dr. Zhengfei Guan reported on the varied challenges and economic issues he is studying.
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They range from Mexican competition and labor issues to escalating production costs, pest and disease management to production and market risks and research and development considerations, as well as licensing strategies for new cultivars. Opportunities under study by Dr. Guan include branding strategies, targeted marketing and other initiatives to stimulate consumer demand. His efforts regarding industry labor issues will include the feasibility and profitability of mechanical harvesting. Growers and other attendees were given an update on the incidence of strawberry diseases during the current season by plant pathologist Dr. Natalia Peres. She noted it has been a particularly favorable season for Botrytis given the weather conditions that have occurred. In addition to her presentation, Dr. Peres entertained questions and comments from the audience regarding various practices for disease management. She also distributed a Summary Efficacy Guide for Strawberry Fungicides.
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The group then gathered at the adjacent strawberry fields for updates on weed control, an update on new varieties and the latest information on nematode control. Retired professor and strawberry breeder Dr. Craig Chandler, who continues his involvement at the center during the season, led the tour of new cultivars, particularly the ‘Florida 127’, discussing fruit and plant characteristics, field performance, plant establishment, fertilization and irrigation, as well as disease management. Weed scientist Dr.Nathan Boyd led a discussion regarding recommended weed control practices for the second use of plastics for spring vegetables grown after the conclusion of the strawberry season, essentially bridging the gap for weed control from one crop to another. Dr. Joseph Noling from the Citrus Research and Education Center reported on the most recent findings of his studies on Sting Nematodes and management in the
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field. His update included the findings of a study undertaken with the use of a deep soil exploration tool, The Probinator, to depths up to 40-inches. His study findings support the recommended injection of fumigants at the end of the growing season to help further control nematodes with particular emphasis on the new, Prebed Deep Shank Treatment which pushes fumigants deeper. “In addition to providing a great opportunity for dialogue, events such as this field day are good opportunities for growers to share information regarding individual challenges with other growers and researchers that often lead to solutions for their respective issues,” said Extension Agent and Field Day organizer and program moderator Alicia Whidden. Copies of the presentations and informational materials provided attendees at the Mini-Field Day are available by visiting: http://grcre.ifas.ufl.edu.
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amining the effects that training programs have on labor markets. She is originally from Rhode Island and is currently pursuing career options within the fresh produce value chain in the Southeast.
Maria V. Diaz – is from Barcelona, Venezuela and a senior majoring in FRE Marketing and Management. She hopes to own her own business and continue her involvement with agriculture, focusing on opportunities in countries such as Venezuela, Mexico and the U.S.
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Rayna Wankoye – is a senior majoring in FRE with an international specialization and minor in International Development and Humanitarian Assistance. She is from Niamey, Niger and hopes to work for the United Nations in countries where people are most in need. The Marketing Team will submit its completed plan to the NAMA in mid-March followed by an in person presentation to the judges in Kansas City in April and the selection of national winners.
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Can I apply all the P, K and micronutrients my crop needs at planting time?
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Strawberry and vegetable growers, Elias (L) and Lorena Gutierrez, have been Farm Credit Members since 2007. Loans made for farmers by farmers, since 1916. Farm Credit is the nation’s leading provider of credit to agriculture and rural America.
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USDA OFFERS GREATER PROTECTION FOR SPECIALTY CROPS By Jim Frankowiak
The Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) has new options created by the 2014 Farm Bill, providing additional protection for crops that traditionally have not been eligible for federal crop insurance. Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA), NAP now provides greater coverage for losses when natural disasters affect specialty crops such as vegetables, fruit, mushrooms, floriculture, ornamental nursery, aquaculture, turf grass, ginseng, honey, syrup and energy crops. The losses may be lower yields, crop losses or crop planting prevention. “These new protections will help ensure that farm families growing crops for food, fiber or livestock consumption will be better able to withstand losses due to natural disasters,” said U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “For years, commodity crop farmers have had the ability to purchase insurance to keep their crops protected, and it only makes sense that fruit and vegetable, and other specialty crop growers, should be able to purchase similar levels of protection. Ensuring these farmers can adequately protect themselves from factors beyond their control is also critical for consumers who enjoy these products and for communities whose economies depend on them.” The program had offered coverage at 55 percent of the average market price for crop losses that exceed 50 percent of expected production. Now, producers can choose higher levels of coverage, up to 65 percent of their expected production, at 100 percent of the average market price. The new protection is expected to be especially helpful to beginning and traditionally underserved producers, as well as farmers with limited resources since they will receive fee waivers and premium reductions for expanded coverage. An eligible producer is a landowner, tenant or sharecropper 78
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who shares in the risk of producing an eligible crop and is entitled to an ownership share of that crop. The Farm Bill specifies that an individual or entity’s average adjust gross income (AGI) cannot exceed $900,000 to be eligible for NAP payments. Eligible crops must be commercially produced agricultural commodities for which crop insurance is not available and be any of the following: • Crops grown for food • Crops planted and grown for livestock consumption, such as grain and forage crops, including native forage • Crops grown for fiber, such as cotton and flax (except trees) • Crops grown in a controlled environment, such as mushrooms and floriculture • Specialty crops, such as honey and ample sap • Sea oats and sea grass • Sweet sorghum and biomass sorghum • Industrial crops, including crops used in manufacturing or grown as a feedstock for renewable biofuel, renewable electricity or bio-based products • Value loss crops, such as aquaculture, Christmas trees, ginseng, ornamental nursery and turf grass sod • Seed crops where the propagation stock is produced for sale as seek stock for other eligible NAP crop production More information is available online via a web tool developed by the USDA in partnership with the University of Illinois and Michigan State University. It is available www.fsa. usda.gov/nap and allows producers to determine whether their crops are eligible for coverage, plus options and levels of available protection for their operations. The Hillsborough County Farm Service Agency office is located at 201 South Collins, Suite 201, Plant City, Florida 33563. Telephone: 813/742-1474, Extension 2. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
GULFCOAST CENTER ADDS MOLECULAR BIOLOGIST TO STRAWBERRY BREEDING PROGRAM TEAM FSGA Supports Addition By Jim Frankowiak
Dr. Seonghee Lee, a molecular biologist, has joined the faculty of the Gulf Coast Research Education Center (GCREC) as a member of the strawberry breeding program. He brings a strong academic background of more than a decade of experience in the field of plant molecular genetics and genomics. Most recently, Dr. Lee was a senior research associate at The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, Oklahoma, where he worked as the manager in the plant functional genomics laboratory, utilizing the most relevant modern research technologies. Prior to joining the Noble Foundation, he was a postdoctoral research associate at the Dale Bumpers National Rice Research Center of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service at Stuttgart, Arkansas.
Dr. Seonghee Lee, a molecular biologist
Dr. Lee will complement the increasing precision of work undertaken by the strawberry breeding program at the GCREC as it utilizes DNA information in the development of new strawberry varieties. “For the past several years, we have been learning what areas of the strawberry chromosomes control different traits, such as aroma, disease resistance or fruit firmness,” said GCREC Strawberry Breeder Dr. Vance Whitaker. “For instances, we just discovered and located a gene for resistance to bacterial angular leaf spot disease. This information allows us to use quick lab tests to eliminate or prioritize certain seedlings before they are ever evaluated in the field,” said Dr. Whitaker. “It also helps us make other decisions, such as what parents to cross with each other to get the best combination of traits in the offspring. We are not generating ‘genetically modified’ strawberries. We are simply working with what is already there in a more precise and effective way. You might call it precision breeding. “At this time, we are developing the molecular side of the breeding program to complement the historically strong field breeding that we have. Dr. Lee will oversee that side of the program,” said Dr. Whitaker. “What makes all of this very timely is that we are finally getting access to some of the molecular technology that the big row crops such as corn and soybean have had for a long time.” Funding for the new position was aided by the Florida Strawberry Growers Association (FSGA) which was seeking the best impact possible for its research funds for the long-term future of the industry. “The addition of Dr. Lee makes our highly regarded breeding program even better,” said FSGA President Shad Simmons. “The introduction of new varieties will take less time given the application of this new technology. That is important for many reasons-- all of benefit to our industry and its future,” said Simmons. “We take pride in our relationship with the University of Florida. This step has made that partnership even stronger.”
• Increase Fertilizer Efficiency • Improve Turf Density and Vigor • Reduce Re-treats
“I look forward to applying the application of biotechnology research to the benefit of growers and their crops,” said Dr. Lee, who holds a doctorate in plant pathology from North Dakota State University. He also has a Master of Science in plant pathology and Bachelor of Science in agricultural biology, both from Chungbuk National University in South Korea. Dr. Lee and his wife Kazuyo have a two-year-old daughter, Hannah. He enjoys spending time with his family, fishing and playing tennis.
PathwayBioLogic.com 813.719.7284
For more information about the strawberry breeding program at the GCREC, visit: gcrec.ifas.ufl.edu. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Naturally Amazing Activities
By Sean Green
Photo Credit: Jessica Greenlee
Rose Petal Beads The romantic notion of love need not wither away with the petals of the roses that were gifted to a loved one. We are all aware of the enduring fragrance rose petals can provide long after the flower withers. This month we present to you a craft that will preserve those rose petals in a unique and functional way. Beads can be made with rose petals and not only smell great, but they are perfectly appropriate handmade accessories for your renaissance garb. This year the Bay Area Renaissance Festival will open on Valentine’s Day so the timing is a perfect way to repurpose those roses, or craft another gift for your loved one from the wilting Valentine’s Day roses.
Suggested Material:
Optional Ingredients:
Petals from a dozen roses. Distilled water Frying pan (non-stick) * for traditional black beads use a cast iron skillet Fine mesh sieve or parchment paper Blender (for perfectly smooth beads) OR mortar and pestle (traditional) Nails (for piercing beads)
Powdered Cinnamon Powdered Cloves Rose Essential Oil Anything else that smells good. Binder: (Frankincense) or (Multipurpose Glue)
Step 1 Remove the petals from the rose and trim off the tougher petal bottom and grind them into small pieces with a mortar and pestle or blender. Step 2 Add the petals to a pot or frying pan with about ¼ cup of water for every 2 cups of petals. Step 3 Simmer for an hour, adding water as needed to avoid evaporation. Turn heat off, let cool, REPEAT until mixture is a soft gloppy mess with the consistency of pudding Step 4 Cook over medium heat to evaporate the remaining water stir fr quently until the mixture is like dough. Step 5 Blot the mixture against a fine mesh sieve or parchment paper to dry it as much as possible. Step 6 Knead optional ingredients into the mixture Step 7 Roll beads into shape twice as big as needed (round, oval, square, etc..) (* Beads will shrink 50%) Step 8 Pierce the damp beads with a nail, (The hole will shrink down to the size of a pin hole.)
Step 9 Let the beads dry for about a week before stringing them.
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A Closer Look
By Sean Green
Photo credit: Chelyapin Dmitry
The Blistering Sting of Love An Insects Role in Romance
This month is associated with the notion of love. Although it may seem appropriate to feature the infamous “Love Bug,” they contribute little beyond their name. We hope you will find a historic account of an insect’s role in romance both interesting and enlightening. Earliest records of civilization confirm that insects were instrumental in evoking romantic love. We hope a closer look at these ancient notions will clarify the historic popularity and dangers of employing insects in the pursuit of love. Cupid is the most prevalent Valentine’s Day icon in history, the story of whom is penned in “Cupid and the Bee” (IDYL XIX), a short poem written in the style of the 3rd century poet Theocritus. In the poem, the young Cupid tries to steal honey from a hive of bees and gets stung. Cupid stamps and cried to his mother Venus, complaining that such a small creature should not cause such pain. Venus smiles at Cupid pointing out that he too was small but his love darts similarly pain the heart. The primary insect involved in the poem is the Bee, an insect, that is Cupids equal as a symbol of love. Bees are naturally associated with reproduction in their role as pollinators, but have a unique contribution to the notion of love that other pollinators cannot claim in the production of honey, which for many cultures, are factors in spiritual love. Several ancient cultures including the Mayan culture of pre-Columbian America, regard bees as a sacred insect and create tomb decorations, and even temples to honor the bee and its products. The honey made by the bee is a highly prized food for the gods and remains one of the most widely used aphrodisiacs in the world, used either in it’s pure form or mixed into other concoctions such as foods, ointments, candles or incense. Royal jelly, for example, is marketed as a libido enhancer worldwide and in countries that embrace entomophagy (eating insects), bee and wasp larvae can additionally be added to the list of libido enhancers. None of this information is new to humanity, Ovid, the 1st century poet, references bees and honey throughout his collection of love poems specifically Love Affairs, and Art of Love. Galen of Pergamon, a 2nd century physician, endorsed a mixture that included honey to heighten sexual desire and Hippocrates, the 4th century father of modern medicine similarly encourages the use of a honey mixture to increase libido. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Insect’s historic role as an agent of love have included their use as symbols and charms, applied as salves and ointments, and consumed in potions and meals to produce an aphrodisiac effect. The most notorious of insects thought to spark romance is the Spanish Fly. The insect is actually a beetle that is part of the Meloidae family commonly known as Blister Beetles for their characteristic chemical defense mechanism. The family Meloidae itself includes about 2500 species worldwide, 26 of which can be found in Florida. The distinctive characteristic that makes this particular insect popular for its reputed aphrodisiac properties and at the same time one of the most dangerous insects to experiment with is its capacity to manufacture the chemical Cantharidin as a defense mechanism. Cantharidin is an odorless terpene (a type of terpenoid) produced by blister beetles to combat predators. When threatened, the Blister Beetle will secrete Cantharidin through their knee joints, a process known as reflex bleeding. The chemical itself deters predators by serving as both a blister agent and a potent toxin. For the male beetle, this chemical is offered to the female as a nuptual gift during the mating process. When beetles mate, the packet of sperm offered by the male can either be used to fertilize eggs or be rejected and discarded by the female. Male blister beetles include a supply of Cantharidin to make their package offering more attractive. When the female beetle accepts the package, the female covers her eggs with Cantharidin to protect the eggs from predators. Volumes of information detail the alleged effect of Cantharidin and its function as an aphrodisiac. Medically, its aphrodisiac effect is dismissed as the body’s response to the chemical irritant. Blood flow is increased to relieve tissue damage and can superficially mimic the engorgement of sexual excitement. The toxicity of Cantharidin is comparable to strychnine, one of the most potent poisons of the 19th century; consequently, the sale of Cantharidin based products such as the “Spanish Fly” are illegal in most countries and its limited medical use is regulated. There is no need to completely discount an insects role in the pursuit of romance, most can still lead the way to a beautiful rose, which is a perfectly safe and appropriate gift to include with a poem penned from the heart. Happy Valentine’s Day. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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By Ginny Mink
Fancy Farms The Strawberry Dynasty What a great time doing Meet the Minks this month! On our ride out, Hazel asked me, “Is this Meet the Minks a surprise?” To which I responded, “Aren’t they all?” She giggled loudly from her back seat position and said, “You surprised me with the bow and arrows and the horses! I really liked the horses, can we go back?” I smiled, leaned over toward my husband who was riding in the passenger seat and informed him that we’d need to get in touch with Gus Trent to see about horseback lessons. He rolled his eyes, but I think she might end up with some seeings as she’s Daddy’s Princess. Anyhow, when we pulled into Fancy Farms, Jaidyn (the eldest) declared the name, loudly. Hazel squealed, having absolutely no idea where she was at all. We walked into the red barn where we came face to face with the Duck-Dynasty-Esque Carl Grooms (owner of his own Strawberry Dynasty). They were talking shop and Hazel had to use the bathroom (ah, the joys of three year olds). Having embarrassed myself substantially due to the urgency in her face, we trotted off to the very small restroom (only to discover a false alarm – aren’t they always?). Chris (my husband), Zeke (the baby) and J (aka: Jaidyn) were waiting outside for us. Since we hadn’t come prepared (I didn’t want to give Hazel any clues what we’d be doing), Mr. Grooms recommended that we head to the other field where he had some containers for us to use. Trying to get Hazel back in the car was quite a chore, I’ll tell you. “We’re leaving?” Came the high-pitched, I’m about to throw a fit, question. “No,” I told her calmly (mostly because she doesn’t photograph as well when 88
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she’s been crying), “We’re following him to the other field so you can pick there.” Her eyes got wide, as if she’d just realized, for the first time, what our purpose was, “We’re going to pick strawberries!?!” She declared, halfscreamed, clapping her hands and giggling like a maniac. “Duh…” her always verbose older brother added with a distinctly-almost-teen eye roll. Zeke wasn’t much happier about getting in the van than Hazel was. He had been set free and was not interested in being strapped in again. Therefore, when we did get to the other field (only a mile up the road) he was happy to bolt towards the plants. Mr. Grooms took great care showing all of them, Chris included, how to pick strawberries properly. Then he insisted that they eat some. That was of course met with glee. J took off on his own and when he finally came back, the plastic container Mr. Grooms had provided was overflowing. Chris and Zeke did their own picking and eating (red fingers and lips are a dead giveaway) and Hazel enjoyed her conversations with Mr. Grooms tremendously. She frequently erupted in laughter at his commentary. When it appeared they couldn’t eat, or stuff, anymore strawberries I was certain we’d be on our way, but it was almost like our time had only just begun. Mr. Grooms took J up into his barn, which made J feel like he was something special being way up overhead. Then, Mr. Grooms set Hazel and Zeke up on his antique, though still in working order, tractors. The smiles that covered their faces were certainly priceless. He’d even offered to let J drive one but, since I have inside knowledge about an incident in Mammaw’s golf-cart, I told Mr. Grooms, WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
“I wouldn’t let him if I were you.” I got the looks that could kill, but I also didn’t want to have to sell all my worldly possessions to try to pay for a damaged 1940s International Harvester! Carl Grooms is a sweet man, he was so kind to the kids and Hazel just adored him. She told him she’d be back to see him tomorrow and when we got home she informed me, “I have to go to work.” I thought she might be in one of her fairy-tale story times but I took the bait anyway, “Where, picking strawberries?” To my surprise she said, “Yep!” It was apparent that this adventure made an impact on her. In fact, on the ride home she and Chris ended up talking over one another while saying the same thing. From the front seat he said to me, “Those strawberries were pretty good; I ate a couple.” While from the backseat (at the same time) Hazel was hollering, “Those strawberries were deeee-licious!”
ries must be impressive because my husband is a very tight-lipped, keep his opinions to himself, kind of guy so for him to volunteer that the strawberries were good, that’s saying something! I don’t think I can say anything greater about Mr. Grooms other than my kids loved him. Hazel cracked up more times than I could count and Zeke gave him numerous hi-fives. Finally, before we left, Mr. Grooms leaned in the van and told Hazel, “I’ve got a riddle for you,” then he proceeded to share a tonguetwister with her, “rubber, baby, buggy, bumper.” My kids are still trying to say that one time fast! Fancy Farms just got some new fans, for sure! Thanks goes out to the Grooms for sharing their space and their berries with us!
Before we left, I asked Mr. Grooms what they were growing on his nearly 250 acres. He told me that they are the Florida Radiance strawberries cultivated by the University of Florida. I’ll tell you right now that his strawber-
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A Step Back in Time By Libby Hopkins
Oscar Wilde once said, “It is only the modern that even becomes old fashioned.” In today’s modern times of one-stop-shopping, we’ve gotten away from knowing the people we buy our food from or where our food is produced. Be honest, if the clerk in the checkout line at Publix weren’t wearing a nametag, would you even know their name? Andrea and Thomas Cawley of Seminole Heights are making sure they get to know all of their customers. The couple owns the Seminole Heights General Store and they are taking the Seminole Heights community back in time with their charming little store. “We came up with the idea a couple of years ago after we visited Tennessee and fell in love with some of the general stores that are up there,” Andrea Cawley said. “They are very quaint and we felt that this area was missing something like them.” General stores are vital part of America’ history. According to the website, Legends of America (www. legendsofamerica.com) “Out of necessity, country stores or general stores, got their start during the colonial period for the many pioneers who lived outside urban markets. Many owners of these mercantiles began as roving peddlers and once they had accumulated enough capital and inventory, they often established permanent locations in settlements 92
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where there was a need and likely profit. In many instances, the general store would be the first business in a new settlement, and sometimes, the town itself would take its name from the store. This was not necessary but the area residents wanted it that way. When the number of residents in the area grew large enough, the post office was generally located in the general store.” In addition to being the only store and post office in town, the general store also served as the community center, political hub and bank. Thomas Cawley grew up in Seminole Heights and when he married Andrea, they purchased a home in the area. “We’ve owned the property where the store is located since the early 90s and Thomas is general contractor so he came up with the idea of how he wanted the building to look,” Cawley said. “It took a few years to get the plans approved by the city, but once we brought them our plans and pictures of what we wanted to build, they liked the idea and they were very receptive.” They used a lot of reclaimed wood and worked with Habitat For Humanity to build the store. “We wanted to give the store that old-time feeling and look,” Cawley said. “At the same time we wanted to make the store environmentally friendly.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
They had a modest opening this past July and since then they have been adding more local products and produce to their store. “There is no other place in Seminole Heights that incorporates fresh produce, a deli, bakery and fresh, live bait,” Andrea Cawley said. “It’s just a natural fit for a general store.” The fresh, live bait is the most popular item at the store. “You would be surprised that it’s our number one seller, it’s crazy,” Cawley said. “A lot of local fisherman who fish off the river or at Davis Island come to us for their bait and worms as well as a lot of our local gardeners.” Before the Cawley’s opened the store, the local fisherman would have to drive out to the beach to get their bait. Keeping things local is extremely important to the couple. They buy their produce and honey from local farmers and beekeepers. They also carry a variety of locally made products such as soap and spices. They hired a local chef to make all the salads and WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
sandwiches in the deli as well as all the sweet treats in the bakery. “Keeping things local is extremely important to us and that’s one of the things we strive for here at the general store,” Cawley said. “We go out of our way to avoid the big guys and look for the small local vendors.” The couple is working on revamping the store’s website and social media, so they can spread the word about the Seminole Heights General Store. “We are planning a grand opening in the next month or so and we are working on getting more local products to carry in the store as well as getting more local artist to have their art available in the store,” Cawley said. If you would like to learn more about the Seminole Heights General Store, you can visit their website at www.seminoleheightsgeneralstore.com or call 813-302-9482. The store is located at 5420 N. Florida Ave. in Seminole Heights. Their hours of operation are Monday-Sunday 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Delivering admission tickets to the Publix Super Market at Plant City Crossing. Pictured are Festival General Manager Paul Davis, Publix Store Manager Roy Rogers and Festival President Jim Jeffries.
Festival Begins Discounted Ticket Sales At Publix Discounted admission tickets for the 2015 Florida Strawberry Festival are on sale at participating Publix Super Market stores throughout Central Florida. Discounted admission tickets will be available for purchase at participating Publix stores Jan. 29 through March 8 and can be purchased at customer service desks. Advance discounted admission tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children 6-12 years old. Children 5 years old and under are admitted free. “This will be our second year partnering with Publix to offer discounted admission tickets,” said Florida Strawberry Festival General Manager Paul Davis. “Publix is a company that we greatly respect, and it is a privilege for us to partner with them in bringing this convenience to our customers.” Nearly 300 Publix stores throughout Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota and Sumter Counties will participate in selling admission tickets as well as promoting the
festival to their customers. “Our festival is a family event, and we work very hard to make it affordable for all families,” said Davis. “We hope even more people will be able to enjoy our festival by offering this discounted price through Publix.” To see the list of participating Publix Super Market stores visit www. flstrawberryfestival.com. About the Florida Strawberry Festival The Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day community event celebrating the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. Each year, over 500,000 visitors enjoy the Festival’s headline entertainment, youth livestock shows, exhibits of commerce and, of course, its world-famous strawberry shortcake. The 2015 Florida Strawberry Festival, inviting patrons to “Come Join The Party!” will be held Feb. 26 through March 8, 2015 in Plant City. For more information, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (#berryfest15).
Delivering admission tickets to the Publix Super Market at Walden Woods in Plant City. Pictured are Festival General Manager Paul Davis, Publix Store Manager Patrick O’Neal and Festival President Jim Jeffries 96
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Not Your Average Clementine by: Libby Hopkins
There has been a new type of Clementine discovered in Ybor City! It’s big, long and silver. No, it’s not some genetically modified fruit for aliens, it’s the Clementine Café that will soon make its debut at the Ybor City Daily Market in February. The new café is a 1973 Airstream trailer that will be parked inside the market and Brian and Misty Sommers of Seminole Heights own it. “We plan to open in early February and we are itching to get going,” Misty Sommers said. “We look forward to bringing something different to the people of Tampa.” Brian Sommers grew up in Florida and his family owned citrus groves, so it was only fitting to name their business after his affinity for citrus. Brian has been a professional chef for more than 20 years and Misty has a background in the hospitality industry. “I have worked just about every front of the house position from hostess to general manager,” Sommers said. “I am passionate about spectacular customer service.” The couple met while working for a restaurant group in Dallas and they married in 2004. Their son, Franklin was born in 2006 and then the family moved to Tampa in 2012 to work for a local restaurant group, but the job fizzled out. “We had already decided that Tampa was where we wanted to be, so we tried to figure out how we could support ourselves,” Sommers said. In the meantime, they made friends in their new community and started having them over for dinner from time to time. “They fell in love with the food we served and they actually asked if they could buy it from us,” Sommers said. 100
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“Slowly, but surely, the seed was planted and Clementine Delivers was born.” They discovered there was a market out there where people wanted clean, organic, gourmet meals, so the Sommers’ started Clementine Catering in addition to their delivery service. “Word got out and we found a niche in the catering market, providing food and service for intimate, high end dinner parties,” Sommers said. “Clementine Café, the newest entity under the Clementine umbrella, came about after a trip to Key West last spring.” While on vacation, the couple came across a food truck called Garbo’s Grill. They were impressed by the food that was served out of the 6x6 trailer. “Clementine Café was born right there, sitting on a stump under a tree in Key West,” Sommers said. They came back to Tampa in search of a food truck. They realized they would need a customized truck because Brain was very particular about kitchen design and set up. “We began a search and eventually found and purchased at 1973 Airstream trailer that had been sitting in a field in Pasco County for the last 30 years,” Sommers said. “All the was left was to find the perfect location.” As they started remodeling and customizing the trailer, they knew they didn’t want to have a mobile restaurant. They checked out the Ybor Daily Market and met with the owners. They liked the location and the parking was good, so they decided to go for it. “Our ideas seemed to match up with their WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
vision for the market and the vibe they were wanting to create,” Sommers said. “The prime spot on seventh avenue, the awesome parking and the adjacent trolley stop sealed the deal for us. We are extremely excited about setting up shop in such a vibrant, unique and historical neighborhood.” Through all their years of working and running restaurants, along with running their own catering business, the couple knew what the people of Tampa were looking for in food. “We have fed many different people from all kinds of backgrounds, week in and week out,” Sommers said. “Our customers have given us such valuable feedback and we have learned a lot about grass fed proteins, pasture-raised poultry, wild caught seafood and organic produce.” Their dishes will feature organic produce from Sun Coast Food Alliance, pork from Niman Ranch and meats from Joyce Farms. “We are fanatical about sourcing the very best ingredients we can get our hands on,” Sommers said. “As we learn more about the local farm scene, we’ll continue to support local farmers as much as possible.” The couple also used local contractors to remodel their trailer. Clementine Café will begin with serving lunch from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and then later try some evening openings. “We plan on building in a few nights and perhaps a weekly ‘family supper’ communal table so we can get to know someone new,” Sommers said. If you would like to learn more about Clementine Café, you can visit their website at www.clementinechef.com. The Ybor Daily Market is located at 1920 E. 7th Ave. in Ybor City. If you would like to learn more about the market, you can visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ybordailymarket. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Native Inspired Food and Spirits By Libby Hopkins
Bright red, juicy, sweet and taste amazing…have you figured out what I’m describing? Strawberries! They are by far one of the best berries and with Plant City being the winter strawberry capital of the world, they are grown right here in our own backyard. What comes to mind when you think of strawberries? Strawberry shortcake? Of course, but strawberries have so much more to offer like strawberries and cream with citrus sabayon. How about grouper with strawberry compote and sliced almonds? Or how about espresso cocoa rubbed dry aged strip steak with strawberry salsa and a bistro salad of mixed greens and strawberries on the side? Does strawberry flavored beer cross your mind when you think of strawberries as well? All of these delicious strawberry infused dishes and beer were just some of the delights the Florida Strawberry Growers Association (FSGA) had the chance to sample at a private tasting that was held just for them at the brand new Tampa restaurant, Ulele, in January. “We heard from the strawberry growers that they wanted to do something special to showcase their Florida crop and they knew Ulele featured Fresh From Florida Beef, so it was a natural fit for us,” said Chief Marketing Officer for Columbia Restaurant Group of Tampa, Michael Kilgore. “It took about five minutes for us to decide what we wanted to do once we started talking about strawberries.” Sue Harrell with the FSGA delivered 25 flats of strawberries to Ulele the first week of December and Ulele’s executive chef, Eric Lackey went to work creating the amazing strawberry dishes that were served the entire month of January at the restaurant. “What I did was coordinate the strawberries into all the food the growers were sampling at the event,” Lackey said. “We wanted to show everyone that came to the event how we can tie strawberries into just about everything instead of just strawberry shortcake.”
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Harrell continued to deliver six flats of strawberries each week and the strawberry infused dishes kept coming. “Ulele is the second restaurant we have worked with and we hope to partner with more restaurants in the future to feature all of our Fresh From Florida products,” Harrell said. “We are thrilled that Ulele features Fresh From Florida products on their menu.” A very special thank you to the strawberry growers who donated berries for this venture. The restaurant gets its name from Ulele, the young daughter of local Tocabaga chief, Hirrihigua. History claims that in 1528, Ulele pleaded and threw herself over 17-year-old Juan Ortiz, as he was about to be roasted alive in revenge for the tribe’s previous hostile encounters with explorers. Ortiz, a member of the Spanish Narvaez expedition, was spared. Whether love or pity prompted Ulele’s actions, one will never know. “I think events like this with strawberry infused samplings reinforce the concept of what we are doing here at Ulele and Fresh From Florida, which is native inspired food and spirits,” Kilgore said. Ulele is another creation from Richard Gonzmart. He is a fourth generation family member of the family that founded the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City. Gonzmart’s great-grandfather was the general manager of The Florida Brewery that opened the Columbia Saloon in 1903. In 1905, his great-grandfather saved enough money to buy the brewery and then later turned it into the Columbia Café. “I’ve go a family torch that I am holding and letting it burn brightly,” Gonzmart said. He is preparing his two daughters to take that torch from him and carry it into the future for the Gonzmart family. “Family business is what it’s all about and it’s what made this country great,” Gonzmart said. “We believe in Fresh From Florida and that’s what we are trying to promote here at Ulele.” If you would like to learn more about the products offered from Fresh From Florida, you can visit their website at www.freshfromflorida. com. If you would like to learn more about the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, you can visit them on the web at www.flastrawberry.com. Ulele is located at 1810 N. Highland Ave. in Tampa. You can check out their amazing menu at www.ulele.com. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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WATER DISTRICT ‘FARMS’ PROGRAM MANAGER NAMED TO FARM BUREAU ADVISORY GROUP
Looks Forward to Serving during what has been Termed Year in Water
By Jim Frankowiak
The Program Manager of the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s (SWFWMD) Facilitating Agricultural Resource Management Systems (FARMS) Program – Edward M. Craig, IV—has been appointed one of three agency professionals in Florida to serve as a technical advisor to the Florida Farm Bureau (FFB) Water Natural Resources Advisory Committee. In his capacity as a non-voting technical advisor, Craig will serve in an advisory capacity to Farm Bureau’s State Board of Directors. “What an opportune time to be selected to serve on this advisory committee,” said Craig. “Many in our industry are referring to this legislative year as the Year in Water. To be offered this great opportunity to represent and serve as a technical advisor for the interests of the agricultural community and for our water resources for our great state of Florida is all very humbling and exciting.” Craig brings 20 years of professional experience in agriculture, environmental science and environmental regulation through his service with the SWFWMD and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). He is a Certified Professional Soil Scientist through the American Registry of Certified Professionals in Agronomy, Crops and Soils, which is also known as ARCPACS, a Federation of Certifying Boards in Agriculture, Biology, Earth and Environmental Sciences. Craig also holds memberships in the Society of Wetland Scientists, the American Society of Agronomy and Florida Farm Bureau. He was one of the co-founders of the FARMS Program.
An alumnus of Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science from the School of Agriculture in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, Craig was a member of the Environmental Science Club and Indiana Vocational Agricultural Teachers Association. He was also employed by the Agronomy Department at Purdue. In his new advisory role, Craig will offer his knowledge and expertise in agriculture and various technical skills to voting FFB Water Natural Resources Committee members as they endeavor to shape and establish policy and initiatives and review existing policy and procedure. An active member of his community, Craig has served as a land judging and soil judging coach for local high school and middle school teams, a science fair judge at the Manatee County fair and as an assistant high school wrestling coach at his alma mater. Craig and his wife Courtney have three children: Marshall, 15; Kaitlyn, 13 and twoyear-old Van. Craig’s son Marshall is a state ranked varsity wrestler at his alma mater, Manatee High School. We wish Craig a productive year as an FFB technical advisor. For more information on the FARMS Program, contact Craig at 941-377-3722, extension 6556. He may also be reached via email at: Edward,craig@ watermatters.org or via the District’s FARMS website: http://www. swfwmd.state.fl.us/agriculture/farms/.
The FARMS Program is an agricultural best management practice (BMP) cost-share reimbursement program that involves both water quantity and water quality aspects. This public/private partnership program was developed by the SWFWMD and FDACS and is offered exclusively within the 16-county boundaries of the SWFWMD. The Program’s purpose is to implement production-scale agricultural BMP projects that will provide resource benefits that include water quality improvement, reduction of Upper Floridan aquifer withdrawals and/or conservation, restoration or augmentation of the area’s water resources and ecology in targeted Water Use Caution Areas and priority watersheds. FARMS is intended to assist in the implementation of the SWFWMD’s Southern Water Use Caution Area Recovery Strategy, Regional Water Supply Plans for the Southern, Heartland, Tampa Bay and Northern Planning Regions, the Shell Creek and Prairie Creek Watershed Management Plan, Upper Myakka River Watershed Initiative, Dover/Plant City Freeze Management Plan, Springs Management Plan, Strategic Plan and the pending Central Florida Water Initiative Regional Water Supply Plan. The FARMS Program is designed to serve as an incentive to the agricultural community to install and maintain irrigation BMPs that will promote surface water and groundwater resource sustainability. Raised in Manatee County, Craig grew up in an agricultural setting, working on his family’s almost 10,000-acre vegetable production farm. He also gained agricultural experience herding and vaccinating cattle on the ranch, at their seedling plant nursery and while employed their vegetable packing facility. “I learned a lot as a youth growing up in an agricultural setting,” Craig said. “It established the foundation for my principles, inspiration and contributions in my service to the public and agricultural community.” While in school, he was a member of 4-H, Manatee County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse and FFA. Craig was president of his FFA chapter while a senior at Manatee High School. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Some “Not So Well Known” Facts about the Strawberry Industry By Jim Frankowiak The Florida Strawberry Growers Association has come a very long way since the founding members Tommy Brock, Carl Grooms, Bob Hinton, Johnny St. Martin and Allen Williford met in their homes in 1980 about the best way to organize a group representing the interests of the Florida strawberry industry. That group, and what officially became the Florida Strawberry Growers Association on February 11, 1982, along with its first executive director, Chip Hinton, took some tremendous strides in those initial years of the FSGA. But how and what did they do to help build an industry in eastern Hillsborough County that annually generates sales totaling nearly $400,000 million with a footprint that has broad domestic and even international markings? Was it wisdom, forethought or more? Turns out, it was that and a lot more. There was a level of luck, an unwavering commitment and even a bit of help from the development of Gatorade. No, there’s no formal relation between that drink and strawberries, but Hinton’s role as one of the “guinea pigs” for that fledgling product while he was a member of the Gator’s football team in the late 1960s provided an insight into patents and royalties that was especially helpful to the FSGA going forward. “Back in those early days of Gatorade it was commonplace for royalties paid to patent holders and creators of beverages and varieties of commodity items to go no further,” said Hinton. “That did not mesh well with my Land Grant university roots and appreciation, nor did it bode well for what the founding members wanted for the strawberry industry. There had to be a way to assure that some of those royalties were used to further research going forward.” But, first things first. At the time the FSGA was formed, the vast majority of plants came from California. While they were great for California, they were not so great for the climate, soil and critters here in Florida. The University of Florida had a research operation at Dover that is now home to the FSGA, as well as activities taking place in Gainesville, but there was an opportunity for additional research to be done on behalf of the strawberry industry in Florida. Additional funding was needed. Membership in the FSGA was the primary focus of the initial years of its existence. As membership grew attention then shifted to research and the development of varieties suited for the growing conditions and chal116
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lenges in the greater Plant City area. Dr. Craig Chandler was brought in as the first strawberry breeder, working out of the Dover lab. Dr. Charlie Howard, a plant pathologist, was instrumental in bringing disease resistance and other sought after qualities to new varieties of strawberry that he shared with Dr. Chandler. Then there was focus on the patent/royalty issues. “We were fortunate that Jim Davidson, who was dean of research at UF/IFAS at the time, saw the potential for our industry,” said Hinton. “He was helpful in assisting the FSGA work through a revised process that overcame the former royalty split so that the FSGA would share a portion of those royalties that could be devoted to future research on behalf of the strawberry industry.” Hinton also noted the help of Dr. Dan Cantliffe, chair of the then Vegetable Department, which is now the Citrus and Vegetable Department, and Dr. Earl Albregts, another researcher who was responsible for development of the early banding system. “As a matter of fact, he developed the drip irrigation system that was ultimately accepted by the industry at a later time,” said Hinton. Assistant Dean of Research at that time, Dr. Neil Thompson, was especially helpful with the preparation of the patent documents. Dr. Joe Joyce, who was Executive Vice President of IFAS, presented the new approach and leveraged it through the process of review and ultimately approval. Those royalties under the agreement that was approved reduced the payment to the breeder/developer, but awarded funds ultimately used for ongoing future research. Dr. Chandler, who has retired but continues his involvement with the industry during the season, and his colleagues, have developed ten varieties of new berries, while other researchers at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center have and continue to address other grower challenges from pests and weather to labor and beyond. Dr. Vance Whitaker now leads the GCREC strawberry breeding program. The Florida Strawberry Patent Service Corporation holds exclusive rights to license agreements for growing Florida patented strawberry varieties around the world. FSGA members in good standing enjoy a royalty discount as one of their membership benefits. Shortly after the introduction of the Sweet Charlie variety, the first Florida variety, the FSGA was contacted by an out-of-state nurseryman interested in representing that variety internationally. “This was not something we had considered,” said Hinton.
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“That has become and continues as an unexpected continuous stream of royalties.” That variety and others are now grown internationally. “Our goal was the development of the best quality varieties that would be beneficial for Florida strawberry growers,” said Hinton. “We have done that along with other attributes that have become attractive to growers outside of Florida, even in other parts of the world.” Early in the 2000s, the University of Florida decided to close the GCREC then located in Bradenton. Fortunately, an agreement was reached to sell that facility with the proceeds held by a foundation for use with the creation of a new center on a 475-acre site in southern Hillsborough County. “Again, we were fortunate to have county commission support for that effort which included much assistance from Extension Director Stephen Gran, who was part of the county’s Ag economic development team at that time,” said Hinton. That foundation, the Florida Strawberry Research and Education Foundation, has contributed several million dollars to fund research at the GCREC. It also awards annual scholarships to students through funds raised during the annual Florida Strawberry Festival and the Best Flats Competition among growers. This year FSGA cash awards of $1,000 each went to Haley Clendening and Kaylah Nelson with FSGA Ambassadors Samantha Black, Adrian M. Dyer, Mary Clare Futch and Jarrett Gillman each receiving $1,000. Memorial scholarships of $1,000 each were also awarded to Clark J. Futch (Marty Sewell Memorial Scholarship), Kassie Lanier (O.M. Griffin Memorial Scholarship), David Pequeen (Brenda St. Martin Memorial Scholarship) and Kellie Pernula (Eddie Jones & Trenda Gude Memorial Scholarship). “We are very proud that the FSGA has given more than $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students since its founding,” said FSGA Executive Director Kenneth Parker. Officers of the FSGA also oversee the activities of both sister organizations and staff members administer each, as well. “Wisdom, foresight, luck, great partnerships and an unwavering commitment to the future have all helped the FSGA become what it is today,” said Parker. “We have our challenges, but the support of our members and partners will continue to help us progress just has it has for more than 30 years.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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We have all your aluminum needs! Screen Room, carports & awnings. Call Blake (813) 752-3378
808 W. Risk St. Plant City. 3/2 Bungalow, recently updated and ready for occupancy. $115,000 mlsT2728687Call for showing 813-967-0168.
FOR SALE - 45 ACRES VACAT LAND
LOOKING TO LEASE 10 Plus acres prefer North Lakeland for DOORS & WINDOWS SPECIAL ORDER cattle. Will maintain fences and mowing.
JOBS
We have all your aluminum needs! Screen Room, carports & awnings. Call Blake (813) 752-3378
1109 S. Wiggins Rd. Plant City. 3/2.5 Manufactured home with pool situated on 1 acre. $134,900 mlsT2725652 Call for showing 813-967-0168
(Pasco County) 45 acres are comprised of gently rolling hills with big trees & solid ground, A great setting for residential development. To the east of the property is a 60 FOR SALE acre parcel (Lake Gilbert) that adds significant aesthetic value to the 45 acres. KITCHEN CABINETS & VANITIES Get quality all wood cabinets for less than the Zoning: AR (Agricultural-Rural) Call Heidi Cecil for more information (863) 899-9620 BIG Box STORES! Call Today! Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378 No upcharge. House & Mobile Home. Many standard sizes in stock. Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378
ALUMINUM
HOME FOR SALE
HOME FOR SALE
CHICKEN MANUIRE FOR SALE TIGER POWER 15KW
REAL ESTATE
Call Reggie 863-698-2967
SERVICES CALLER ON HOLD
A low cost service that enables you to communicate important information about Write about events in your community. immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk your business to customers while they are WINDOW SCREENS on hold. No monthly payments or annual We make window screens of all sizes available Counties. Paid per article. Responsibilities payments. Call today and ask for include covering community events and taking in different frame colors. Al (813) 763-2220 pictures. Email your resume to Call Ted(813) 752-3378 sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com MISC.
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
T1-11 4X8 SHEET 5/8 INCH THICK B-grade $22.95. Call Ted (813) 752-3378
MOBILE HOME TUBS
LAWN EQUIPMENT/ SUPPLIES BRAND NEW HUSTLER RAPTOR
Metal brand new in bo 54” Mobile Home Tubs Zero Turn Mower 52” cut, 23hp. Kawasaki engine, 3 year warranty. $2,999 Call Ted (813) 752-3378 $175.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
FARM EQUIPMENT
MASSEY FERGUSON 255
Tractor 2 wheel drive with herbicide tank & boom. $5,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
BUSH HOG 3209
9’ Offset mower $3,950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
6X16 TRAILER
RUBBER MULCH
All Colors, buy 10 bags, get 1 FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted (813) 752-3378
PRODUCE FRESH PRODUCE
Forbes Road Produce. Open everyday from 7:30am - 8pm. Forbes Rd. & I-4 @ exit 17. Come out and see us!
FOR INFORMATION on the first and
only patented organic doctor approved Gentlemen’s Blend coffee contact Al (813) 763-2220
JEWELERY
Diamond setting & jewelry repair. All done on premises! Crescent Jewelers 813-752-2413
HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL?
Call us today! 813-759-6909 or email us: info@inthefieldmagazine.com Let us help you get rid of it!
Used Trailer with ramps. $1,000 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
7X17 LAWN TRAILER
Used Lawn Trailer with aluminum plate tool box. 5ft tongue & heavy duty gate. $1,650 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
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Nematodes: Old problem. New solution.
MeloCon nematicide effectively controls plant-infecting nematodes, including root knot, burrowing, cyst, root lesion, false root knot and
➤ No fumigant management plan required
sting nematodes. Can be
➤ Application flexibility
applied through any
➤ Broad spectrum nematicide
irrigation system.
[
➤ In-season applications
]
4 hr. REI 0 PHI
MeloCon is a registered trademark of Bayer CropScience WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM 2014 Certis USA
©
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
February 2015
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119
John Deere Quality your wallet will find them irresistible...
5075M Tractor
Serving our customers with 12 Locations At Everglades Farm Equipment we take pride in working with those who work with the land. With superior customer support through leasing, rentals, in-field service support, technology, the best parts availability, and loyalty programs just to name a few, we’re ready to be your equipment partner for the long haul.
Plant City
2805 SR. 60 West Plant City, FL 33567
Leesburg
1800 US HWY. 441 Leesburg, FL 34748
813-737-1660
352-315-1016
Odessa
2240 Success Drive Odessa, FL 33556
Okeechobee
727-842-8618
820 US Hwy. 98, North Okeechobee, FL 34972
Clearwater
863-763-1921
5090 Ulmerton Road Clearwater, FL 33760
727-828-8200
Fort Pierce
6150 Orange Ave. Ft. Pierce, FL 34947
Palmetto
772-461-5568
906 US HWY 301 North Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-3281
Loxahatchee
13295 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470
Fort Myers
Give us a call today.
561-784-4000
9501 State Road 82 Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-332-5045
Belle Glade
Corporate Headquarters
Immokalee
775 E. Main St. Immokalee , FL 34142
239-657-4413
2017 N. W. 16TH Belle Glade, FL 33430
561-996-6531
Naples
1945 Pine Ridge Road Naples , FL 34109
239-260-8800
www.EvergladesFarmEquipment.com
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