Heartland Oct. edition 2010

October 2010

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

®

Turner Brothers Lifelong hard work builds much success and happiness Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

1

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

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Lake Placid 4H News

The Lake Placid 4H Organization kicked off the New Year with the election of the new officer team. The new officers are: President Shelby Hill, Vice President Gracie Smoak, Treasurer Hannah Thompson, Historian Jillian Gadsden, Reporter Payton Wright, and Sergeant of Arms Layton Sapp. Plans for this year include having their very first Pumpkin Patch. The Pumpkin Patch will be available to the public in Stuart Park on Oct. 16. They are also planning to visit local nursing homes for Halloween and Christmas. Preparations for the Highlands County Fair are underway as well, as members prepare to present projects with caladiums, citrus, poultry, rabbits, heifers, and steers. The Lake Placid 4H Organization would like to invite the public to come out and support them throughout the year!

Come pick out your Halloween Pumpkin on October 16 in Stuart Park, Lake Placid!

Help support 4H! CORRECTION

In last months issue a photo was mis-identified. Sherriff Susan Benton was pictured with Major Mark Schrader, not Deputy Fred Tagtmeier. We apologize for the error.

YOU TOO CAN BE A WINNER No Food HEY READERS, hidden somewhere in the magazine is a No Farmers, No Food logo. Hunt for the logo and once you find the hidden logo you will be eligible for a drawing to win a FREE InTheField速 T-Shirt. Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the page on which you found the logo and where on that page you located the logo to: No Farmers

InTheField速 Magazine P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, FL 33563-0042 All Entries must be received by October 15, 2010.

Winner will be notified by phone.

You Too Can Be A Winner - Enter Now! 4

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

From the Editor

October VOL. 3 • ISSUE 1

Kellie Duke

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

Cover Story

Publisher

October 2010

Hello Friends of Agriculture!

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

I can hardly believe it is October already! Fall is my favorite season of the year! I just love everything about Fall! I love the beginning of a new school year, cool weather, football season, picking out a holiday pumpkin to carve and our annual trip to the North Carolina Mountains!

Our cover story is about the Turner Family from Arcadia and the amazing contributions to agriculture that they have made! Our Business Up Front features the new company, Rhizogen. Rhizogen is all about helping the farmer! Read and see what this great new business is up to. The Grub Station features the Wild Turkey Tavern. Check out our visit to the Turkey to find out what you are missing.

I really enjoyed my experience while visiting Palmetto Creek Farms in Avon Park. Jim and Debbie Wood hosted the best Iron Chef Cook-Off that the Heartland has ever seen. The all-natural pork that is raised at Palmetto Creek Farms and cooked up by some of the finest restaurant chefs in Florida was sensational. I can see this event being featured on The Food Network someday! Not only was I thrilled to be out there to sample this great product, but also it was great to see a real farming success story! Through hard work and perseverance, Jim and Debbie took a dream of theirs and turned it into a reality.

My trip to the Equine Dentist was one that I will never forget!

I never realized that a horse’s teeth could be so important to their performance. You know there is nothing so bad as a toothache. I never thought about a horse having a toothache! Read how Dr. Liz Yelvington Steele and her husband, TJ Steele, are helping to bring quality dentistry for horses to the Heartland.

I hope you enjoy reading about our “Young Rancher”, Flint Johns. It is great to know that we have young people like him making significant contributions to agriculture and making it his career. “The Spotlight” is on the Sebring Senior FFA Chapter. Thank you Lauren and Megan for sharing your chapter news with us.

Best wishes to you and your family for a wonderful October. Now go ahead and get that pumpkin, carve it out and make pies with the rest!

Associate Publisher Johnny Cone

Turner Brothers Lifelong hard work builds much success and happiness Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

Kellie Duke

8 Master Gardners

Sales Manager

Bob Hughens Johnny Cone

11 Recipes

Sales

Nick Massey Karen Berry Garrett Duke Chass Bronson W. Russell Hancock Danny Crampton

12 Grub Station Wild Turkey Tavern 14 Business UpFront Rhizogen

Art Director

28 Equine Dentistry

Lourdes Sáenz

40 Save the Champion Trees

Juan Carlos Alvarez

50 Rocking Chair Chatter 56 Young Farmer/Rancher Flint Johns

In The Field® Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Polk County businesses, restaurants and other local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes members of Polk County Farm Bureau, Florida Citrus Mutual and Polk County Cattlemens Association. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909.

Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field® Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by their advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In The Field® magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc. Published by Berry Publications, Inc. N HE IELD AGAZINE

I T

Editor/Writer Office Manager

46 Woman in Agriculture Norma Stokes

For current happenings in agriculture, or story ideas, please email me at kellie@ inthefieldmagazine.com

Sarah Holt

6 Farm Bureau Letter

43 Farm Bureau Field Agent Report

Editor/Writer

Senior Managing Editor and Writer

1

Turner Brothers Pg. 34

Planted Right Here…”In the Field!”

Kellie Duke

Karen Berry

®

F

M

Designer

Staff Writers

Al Berry Kellie Duke James Frankowiak

Contributing Writers Lindsey Sebring Rhonda Glisson Nick Chapman Jim Konkoly Christy Swift Joanna Glisson-Lamarra

Photography Kellie Duke Jim Davis Karen Berry Sue Duchow

OCTOBER 2010

5

®

DESOTO COUNTY FARM BUREAU 1278 SE US HWY 31, ARCADIA, FL 34266 863.494.3636 Greetings from the DeSoto/Charlotte Farm Bureau! By the time you are reading this article, we will have just completed our annual meeting that is scheduled for September 30, 2010 at the Turner Center. We hope that all of our DeSoto/ Charlotte members will have attended this important activity. Because those of us in agriculture are now such a small minority of the American public, it is even more important that Farm Bureau has everyone who is associated with agriculture to be a member and to be a part of the “Voice of Agriculture.”

If you are not a Farm Bureau Member and you are reading this, please give some thought to joining our association. We need you to stand up and be counted as one of our members. You can help us make an impact in the political arena where our very way of life is at stake. Come join us.

Speaking of the political arena, there are a number of important political decisions for us to make this year.

First, we have an open Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services position. Your Board has taken a formal position of endorsing Adam Putnam for the Commissioner of Agriculture. Because this position is so important to the agriculture community, we felt that this was an important decision for us to make and we encourage you to consider and vote for Adam Putnam, because he truly is one of us.

The second item that is so important is amendment 4. This amendment is being touted as “home town democracy.” If this amendment passes, it will severely stifle growth and will be a drag on our economy. At the same time it will increase the cost to taxpayers for

what surely will be more requirements for specially referendums. Please vote NO on amendment 4!!

There are other local and state wide political races that are very important. I would ask that you would study all the candidates and then take the time to vote. This is such an important right and privilege that we have in America. As a former combat soldier from Viet Nam, I would encourage you to think about the young men and women who are in Iraq and Afghanistan fighting for America and all of our rights. Some sadly will make the ultimate sacrifice for our rights and our way of life. Honor them by taking the time to vote this year.

Thanksgiving is just a little more than a month away as I write this article. I truly hope that you and your family have a blessed and fruitful Thanksgiving this year. Even though times are tough for so many, we all need to give thanks for all the blessings we receive in life. We live in the greatest county on earth, we are able to work in the greatest profession of providing food and fiber for Americans, and we have the freedoms that so many do not have, but surely wish that could have. Please take time to give thanks for all that we have!!!

Jim Jim Selph, President DeSoto/Charlotte Farm Bureau

DESOTO COUNTY BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jim Selph, President; Jeffrey Adams, Vice President; Bryan K. Beswick, Secretary/Treasurer; Jim Brewer, John Burtscher, Mike Carter, Steve Fussell, Richard E. Harvin, Matt Sullivan, John Pfeil, Ann H. Ryals, Mac Turner, Matt Harrison 6

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

COUNTY FARM BUREAU

HARDEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU

HIGHLANDS COUNTY FARM BUREAU

1278 SE US Highway 31 Arcadia, FL 34266

1017 US Highway 17 N Wauchula, FL 33873

6419 US Highway 27 S. Sebring, FL 33876

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

Phone: 863.494.3636

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

Fax: 863.773.2369

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

Phone: 863. 385.5141 Fax: 863.385.5356 Web site: www.highlandsfarmbureau.com

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Sec./Treasurer...... Bryan K. Beswick

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

President................ Marty Wohl Vice President......

Secretary..........Drew Phypers Treasurer..........Scott Kirouac

DIRECTORS FOR 2009-2010

DIRECTORS FOR 2009-2010

DIRECTORS FOR 2009-2010

CHARLOTTE/DESOTO

Charlotte Line: 941.624.3981 Fax: 863.494.4332

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President................ Jim Selph Vice President...... Jeffrey Adams

Jim Brewer • John Burtscher Mike Carter • Steve Fussell Richard E. Harvin John Pfeil • Ann H. Ryals Mac Turner • Matt Harrison Ken Harrison County Secretary Summer Chavarria

Phone: 863. 773.3117

Joseph B. Cherry • John Platt Corey Lambert • Daniel H. Smith Steve A. Johnson • Bill Hodge David B. Royal • Greg L. Shackelford Bo Rich Susan Chapman County Secretary

Sam Bronson • Carey Howerton April Butler • Mike Milicevic Andy Tuck • Mike Waldron Jim Wood • Doug Miller County Secretary Janet Menges

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS

Agency Manager N. Jay Bryan

Agency Manager Chad D. McWaters

Agents Dawn A. Hines

Agent George L. Wadsworth, Jr.

1278 SE US Highway 31 Arcadia, FL 34266 (863) 494-3636

1017 US Hwy 17 N. Wauchula, FL 33873 (863) 773-3117

Agents Joseph W. Bullington Seth Rogers

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS Agency Manager Cameron N. Jolly

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

6419 US Highway 27 S. Sebring, FL 33876 (863) 385-5141 OCTOBER 2010

7

the highlands county

By Christy Swift Your azaleas are looking sad, there’s a yellow patch in your lawn, and this is the third season your tomato plants have started to wilt and turn brown from the bottom up.

Wouldn’t it be great if there were some trained, experienced gardening consultants that could help you diagnose and solve your landscaping problems for free?

Well, in many counties across Florida and the U.S., there are.

They are called the Master Gardeners, and Highlands County boasts an active group of these volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and skills to helping homeowners solve flora and fauna faux pas at no cost.

Highlands County currently has 51 active Master Gardener volunteers, according to coordinator and horticultural agent Dee Dee Jacobson. The program has been running in Highlands County since 1984 as part of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Department.

“The Master Gardener program idea started out in Washington State,” explained Jacobson. The horticultural agent there knew there were a lot of questions, and if he had some help, those questions could be answered with the right training. That would free up his time so he could do other work. It was so successful, it spread to other land grant universities.”

“The questions we get are mostly seasonal,” said Jacobson. In the summer, she said it’s usually turf questions that come up, including problems due to over watering.

In October and February, homeowners often come asking about their citrus trees. “In October everybody’s coming back and they want to know why their citrus trees look like they do, diseased or insect-ravaged. In February, when they are getting ready to leave they want to know how to take care of their citrus.”

In February and September, the Master Gardeners also answer a lot of questions about vegetable gardening.

Master Gardener Angelo Verderame cares for plants in the Those questions come up during the summer as well, as many northerners try to grow food during the hot propagation shed, readying them for sale at the annual plant fair. summer months the way they used to do up north. Master Proceeds from the fair go to horticultural scholarships for youth in Gardeners also get to play sleuth doing insect and plant Highlands County. identification.

Water Management District. The Mobile Irrigation Lab is a But the help desk isn’t all the Master Gardeners do. They also county vehicle that travels from location to location, teaching staff educational booths at the Epcot Plant and Garden Festival homeowners how to utilize their sprinkler systems properly, in and other events, manage a propagation shed raising local plants, a way that cares for their lawn, but also minimizes water usage. and help with fundraising for horticultural scholarships for local Jacobson said that estimates show that a household of four youth. This year, Jacobson said they would also be working with uses about 129,400 gallons of water a year on their landscape. “If the Boys and Girls Club on a vegetable garden. we can teach them how to check the irrigation clock and system Another landmark initiative is the recent launch of the on a regular basis, we can reduce that amount up to 50 percent,” Mobile Irrigation Lab, with grant funds from Southwest Florida she said.

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OCTOBER 2010

Far Left: Master Gardener coordinator Dee Dee Jacobson assists Master Gardener Penny Bucher with plant identification at the help desk.

Left: Banana expert and Master Gardener Don Ingram poses in front of one of the many varieties of banana plant in his backyard.

After the water audit, if the homeowner has any landscape issues or concerns, the Master Gardeners talk to them about that and promote Florida-friendly practices.

In fact, conservation is a huge part of the education program that Master Gardener volunteers must undergo. Ninety-six hours are spent in the classroom and the field, learning topics such as plant identification, propagation, Florida-friendly landscaping, invasive species management, integrated pest management (that’s using natural methods instead of chemicals to deal with pests), and best practices for growing fruit and vegetables locally.

While some Master Gardeners come to the program green (pardon the pun), others join already armed with knowledge or a special interest in a particular subject. Some of these Highlands County Master Gardener experts include Don Ingram, “the banana man.” With over ten years’ experience growing banana varieties in his backyard, Ingram is the go-to guy when it comes

ash 3% C unts , Fl. Disco . Ona F.O.B

to choosing, planting, caring for, and harvesting this popular tropical fruit.

Another expert in his field is Rex Cunningham, who works for a turf company and can answer questions about choosing and caring for turf grasses. Walter Darnell has made palms his specialty. He collects them and has approximately 125 different species of palm on his property.

“Overall, the Master Gardeners give back to our community two full-time positions. They are invaluable,” said Jacobson.

The most well known initiative run by the Master Gardeners in Highlands County is the help desk. Staffed five days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Bert J. Harris Jr. Agricultural Center, the help desk is a place where homeowners can go to get answers for their landscaping problems. Residents can visit the desk in person, call in at (863) 402-6540, or email highlandsmg@ ifas.ufl.edu with their questions.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

9

Florida A Nutrition Star Story by Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicine, B.S. Nutrition Science The carambola, or star fruit, is a uniquely flavored, juicy fruit grown commercially in Florida. A combination of sweet and tart, carambola’s flavor has been described as a mix of apple, papaya, and grapefruit flavors. This juicy fruit is entirely edible, including the skin. When cut crosswise, the slices have a star shape, which gives the fruit its common name of “star fruit.”

In Florida, there are two to three peak seasons for star fruit --- between late summer to early winter and again between December through February. According to the University of Florida Extension Office, Florida’s production represents over 90 percent of all carambola grown in the U.S. A small amount is also grown in Hawaii.

NUTRITIONAL PROFILE

Carambolas are high in water content and are low in calories and carbohydrates, meaning that they help hydrate and fill you up with no damage to the waistline. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, a medium sized raw carambola (91g) is over 90 percent water by weight. It contains 28 calories, 0.3 g fat, 0.95 g protein, 6.12 g carbohydrate, 2.5 g fiber, 121mg potassium, 31mg vitamin C, and 56 IU of vitamin A and many other nutrients.

The entire fruit is edible, including the skin. The skin contains a substance called tannins, which may help alleviate diarrhea and regulate intestinal processes, as well as most of the fiber in the fruit. Other nutrients found in star fruit are vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Vitamin C: For a strong immune system Star fruit is considered a good source of vitamin C, an important antioxidant that helps protect your body’s cells from damage by free radicals. Vitamin C also helps the body fight colds and infections, as well as enhance iron absorption from other foods. It aids in the development and maintenance of healthy capillaries, gums, and skin, as well as strong bones and teeth.

Potassium: For blood pressure control Star fruit are high in potassium, a mineral which promotes healthy heart functioning and protects against high blood pressure. Potassium helps regulate fluids and mineral balance, aids in muscle contraction, and helps transmit nerve impulses.

Star fruit and other fruits high in potassium can help prevent muscle cramps.

Vitamin A: For good eyesight Star fruit is high in vitamin A, which is another important antioxidant in the body. Vitamin A is essential for optimal eye health and can help prevent night-blindness. This vitamin plays a role in immunity by supporting the white blood cells in fighting infections and is also involved in hearing, taste, and normal fetal

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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development.

How to Select and Store

Carambola is at its peak season and best flavor right now.

Look for shiny yellow fruit that are free of bruises. If the fruit has green ridges, it will ripen into a yellow color. Ripe carambola should be enjoyed as soon as possible. It can be also be stored in the refrigerator for later use. According to the Fruit & Spice Park in Homestead, FL, peeling off the ridges takes away some of the tart flavor and makes the fruit taste sweeter.

How to Enjoy

Carambolas can be enjoyed in any stage of ripeness. Unripe fruit can be prepared as a vegetable in stir-fry dishes. Ripe carambolas are sweeter and wonderful eaten out of hand. They can also be sliced and added to salads, or puréed and made into sorbets or puddings. Cooked fruit can be used in stews, curries, and cakes. When sliced, their unique star shape is a beautiful garnish to desserts, entrées, or cocktails. Carambolas can also be enjoyed as a refreshing juice or made into jelly when mixed with pectin.

Savor beautiful juicy Florida carambola at its peak taste today. It’s delicious eaten out of hand and is also a lovely garnish to any dish.

SELECTED REFERENCES

http://www.florida-agriculture.com http://www.ipmcenters.org http://www.edis.ifas.ufl.edu

R ECI P ES Carambola Upside Down Cake Ingredients

3 to 4 Florida carambolas (star fruit), sliced 1/4 cup butter, melted 2/3 cup dark brown sugar Juice of 2 passion fruit 1/2 cup butter,

softened 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 1/2 cups cake flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder pinch of salt 1/2 cup milk 1 tsp. each of vanilla and almond extract

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Arrange sliced carambolas in bottom of a greased 9 inch cake pan as close together as possible.

Mix together 1/4 cup butter, brown sugar and passion fruit juice and pour into pan, turning so mixture covers bottom.

Set aside.

Cream together 1/2 cup of butter and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beat well.

Mix together dry ingredients. Add flour mixture, alternately with milk, to butter mixture. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts. Pour into prepared cake pan.

Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until cake pulls away form sides of pan.

Let cool for five minutes before inverting onto serving plate.

Yield: 8 servings

Lobster Carambola Citrus Salad Ingredients

1 cup Florida orange juice 2 tablespoons Florida honey 1/4 cup canola oil 1 teaspoon salt 4 medium Florida carambolas (star fruit), sliced 1 cup Florida orange sections 1 cup Florida pink grapefruit sections 1 pound Florida cooked lobster tail meat, sliced 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained Salad greens, chilled

Preparation

For dressing, bring orange juice to a boil in a saucepan, reducing liquid by 1/2. Cool in a small bowl. Whisk in the orange juice, honey, oil and salt. Set aside. On individual plates, arrange carambola slices, orange and grapefruit sections, lobster and black beans on salad greens. Drizzle with orange salad dressing and serve. Yield: 4 servings Recipes courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

11

By Joanna Glisson-Lamarra The Wild Turkey Tavern. Infamous.

Iconic. A place that speaks for itself, literally.

The moment you approach the front door you know this place isn’t your typical wings and beer joint. The signs, stickers, postings, and photos that embellish the walls tell the story all their own.

So what is left for me to say? Other than….My husband and I went in on a Tuesday for lunch.

After seating ourselves at the bar we didn’t even have to look at the menu to know we wanted to order the Gator Tail. The “Wild Turkey Tavern” and “Gator Tail” are pretty synonymous.

If for some strange reason you haven’t made it in there in over the last 30 years, you surely know someone who has and probably already know all about their “World Famous” delicacy.

I haven’t dined there since childhood, but my first bite made me wonder what took me so long to come back. So after enjoying a basket of gator, we decide to persue the menu. I recommend you read it cover-to-cover in order to get a real sense of what this place is about. As a former restaurant owner, I have a real respect for fresh, quality food prepared the way the cook thinks it tastes the best. After all, they crafted the dish. So why should it be modified?

The approach at The Wild Turkey is simple: To give

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yo u the finest ingredients, at a fair price, in a comfortable atmosphere. And it’s a difference you can taste.

This is one of the very few places where just about everything on the menu is cut and prepared in front of you…literally in front of you if you sit at the bar. The same ladies that bring you an ice cold draft meticulously cook the entire menu to order.

So don’t complain if you have to wait. It’s well worth it. I’m still thinking about the chicken wings.

Left whole, and served hot and steaming with the perfect sauce, like none other. We also ordered Continued on next page

the Slug Burger (the biggest one on the menu, of course) with a side of taters and onions. It was a giant plate of char-grilled deliciousness.

I’m sure glad Mike and Kay Reark decided to leave Miami to bring this landmark to the Heartland. I had the privilege of visiting with them during our lunch; two great people with a passion for good food, good times, family, fishing, and gator hunting. They are going to be celebrating their 30 years of success on October 31 by hosting a Customer Appreciation Cookout.

Stop by from 2 PM – 8 PM and enjoy good food, friends, music, and a lively celebration of course. The annual costume contest will still be held Halloween evening. Or if you would rather host a party of your own, give them a call to book your catered event (100 people +). And as always, you can go in 7 days a week, Monday thru Saturday from 11 AM to 12 PM and Sunday 1 PM to 12 PM.

Wild Turkey Tavern

2751 US Highway 27 South Avon Park (863) 452-5284

FREE Delivery and set up up to 30 mile radius with purchase of shed Valid at the Avon Park lot only

20 x 24 Shed 00 + tax or 24 x 30 Shed 00 + tax

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915 US 27 South, Avon Park FL

863-452-0450 www.robinbuilders.com

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

13

Business UpFront

By Tracy Cox Healthy, living soil is the foundation of our food system.

Without it, healthy crops cannot be produced to nourish people.

Rhizogen, a company concerned about soil stewardship, has formulated a family of safe organic granular fertilizers for farmers, golf courses, ornamental nurseries, and gardeners to produce healthier plants and roots.

“Our products help them utilize the nutrients and restore soil health by putting life back into the soil,” said Alan Warren, President.

Formed in 2007, Rhizogen operates a 53,000 square foot state of the art manufacturing facility near Houston, producing a patented mixture of beneficial probiotic microorganisms and decontaminated poultry manure into a true granular biological fertilizer. The distinct features of Rhizogen’s fertilizers that set them apart from other fertilizers are the true granular form and the proprietary blend of microorganisms and mycorrhizal fungi.

In order to decontaminate the poultry manure, it is exposed to extreme temperatures up to approximately 800 degrees. The manufacturing process rolls the poultry manure to produce small, uniform granules. The microorganisms and fungi were selected for their abilities to capture and assist delivery of nitrogen and other nutrients to the plants’ root systems. The microorganisms contribute to the overall mineralization and nutrient cycling process.

“The market has wanted a true granular product,” Alan said. “Our products are drum granulated for a true round granule which helps eliminate dust particles, which is often found in crumbled-pellet form fertilizers. Farms and golf courses simply do not want a lot of dust flying across their fields and courses.”

Different strains of bacillus help support plant root establishment, enhance soil biodiversity, and participate in the mineralization of organic matter in the soil. The mycorrhizal fungi create thousands of extensions of the plants’ roots, multiplying their ability to pull water out of the soil. Humates, decomposed organic matter, reduce soil compaction, which means growers do not have to water as often. Essential nutrients help the plants grow to be strong and robust.

“Biologicals are put in to make fertilizers work better,” said Alan. “Our fertilizer products have been matched up against and out-performed other poultry fertilizers and even synthetic (conventional) fertilizers.”

Proven effective with more than three years of USDA field trials, Rhizogen’s biological fertilizers help growers reduce their investment costs in a healthier plant environment and have demonstrated improved soil diversity, increased crop yields, increased nitrogen utilization, and enhanced nutrient

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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uptake.

A g - L I F E ® fertilizer, Rhizogen’s solution for the growing trend in farming and gardening towards fostering good practices in soil management, restores soil fertility for sustainable agriculture. It is certified for use in organic farming by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and/or Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA).

Products approved by OMRI and WSDA may be used on operations that are certified organic under the USDA National Organic Program, which sets the standards for organic farming. Ag-LIFE® fertilizers are listed as non-restrictive meaning the products can go on crops anytime before harvest because they are safe. There is no human waste, known as bio-solids, or heavy metals. Additional features include low odor and user friendly.

Because of the overuse of synthetic chemicals, soils have become lifeless and have deteriorated. With Rhizogen’s respect for the environment and its desire to safeguard our natural resources, the company is utilizing science to bring

soil back to its natural state.

Large commercial farms are also using Rhizogen’s products in conventional applications because they get a greater yield.

“Much of our product goes into the conventional farming market versus organic,” Alan said.” We ship product all over the U.S., Mexico, and even into Europe.”

While a big volume of Rhizogen’s business is agriculture, they are in all markets. Their ForeTURF® granular microbialfertilizer is a homogenized blend of six bacteria and two mycorrhizal fungi for golf course turf. Glomus aggregatum, a mycorrhizal fungus, demonstrates improved plant performance in sandy soils and is effective at colonization with time release fertilizers. ForeTURF® can also be used in ornamental nurseries and conventional farming.

Soil-CURE™, with seven different strains of beneficial probiotic microorganisms, can be blended in liquid fertilizer applications. GREENLIFE™ is a transition product line with Ag-LIFE® base material mixed with other conventional products.

Rhizogen’s exclusive Florida distributor is ProSource One. They serve customers in the farming, golf, lawn care and sports turf businesses, as well as customers in the ornamental, vegetation management, and aquatic and forestry industries.

To locate one of their Florida distribution outlets, visit their website at www.prosource.com.

For home gardeners, the same professional formulas, just in different packaging, are marketed under the “Better Naturally®” brand in lawn and garden centers.

For more information on Rhizogen and its products, visit their website at www.rhizogen.com.

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Come See Us for All Your Farm and Construction Equipment Needs INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

15

Heartland’s

Outdoor Power Equipment Sales • Service • Parts

Steve Royce (863)465-2160 830 US 27 South Lake Placid, FL 33852

Please patronize these fine businesses in your area.

To advertise in this section, please call Nick, 863-224-0180 16

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

Highland’s

Please patronize these fine businesses in your area.

To advertise in this section, please call Nick, 863-224-0180 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

17

Scott Kirouac

Farm Bureau HIGHLIGHT Greetings to all, Well there seems to be a hint of fall weather coming soon. I don’t know about you, but I am ready for some cooler weather!

There are two items that I would like to bring to your attention; the importance of being a Farm Bureau member and our upcoming Highlands County Farm Bureau Annual Dinner. Let’s start with membership to your Highlands County Farm Bureau. Did you know that for only $1.06 per week for an active farmer membership and $0.96 per week for an associate membership that you can play a very vital role in securing and maintaining the safest, most abundant and most affordable food source in the world? We rely heavily on other nations to supply us with the oil that it takes to power our nation! I don’t know about you, but I have no interest in relying on them to feed us. Have you ever taken into consideration the threat of a possible act of terrorism on our nation by contaminating a food source that comes from outside our borders? These are just a few reasons why I feel you should strongly consider becoming a Farm Bureau member if you are not already!

Farm Bureau is a grass roots organization that I have come to have a great passion for over the past twelve years as a Highlands County Farm Bureau Board Member and have seen first hand how getting involved does make a difference. Now more than ever is the time to stand up and be heard and protect our rights to continue to farm and maintain one of the core principals that our nation was built on! Remember

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when you are grocery shopping to check the country of origin label and buy American! If you would like to become a member of Highlands County Farm Bureau you can give us a call at 863385-5141 or join online at floridafarmbureau. org.

If you are a resident outside of Highlands County then I also encourage you to become a member of your local county Farm Bureau.

Moving on, our Annual Dinner will once again be held at “Rafter T” Ranch on Saturday, October 23rd. This is simply put a great time to get out and enjoy a steak and shrimp dinner with a live band in a beautiful country setting and visit with friends and a group of really great people and all for only $25 each for open seating or a reserved corporate table for eight for $400. This is the time of year for our board to bring you up to date on what we have been up to, what we have accomplished and what is coming up on the horizon. For tickets or any additional info please contact Jan Menges our federation secretary at 863385-5141. In closing I wish all of you and your families a happy, healthy and prosperous fall!

See you at our Annual Dinner!

Scott Kirouac Treasurer Highlands County Farm Bureau

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

19

FRESHWATER FISHING IN POLK COUNTY

By Captain Dick Loupe

I would like to start this article off by saying this has been one of my best fishing trips that I have had as a guide, both catching fish and spiritually. On this trip I had a granddad, two sons, and one grandson. Wow, what a trip this was, three generations. This is what being out in God’s great outdoors, and being one with nature, is one of the greatest things a family can do.

The Lemler family: Granddad, Dewayne Lemler, age 62, has been married to the same woman, Diane, for 42 years. He has resided in Avon Park, FL since 1957 and retired after 40 years as an educator and high school principal in both Highland and Polk Counties. They are members of the First Baptist Church of Avon Park and are active in both local and state Baptist programs. They have three sons, Dustin, Darren, and Doug, and have six grandchildren, Ian, Morgan, Jillian, Kiersten, Joshua, and Alaina. He enjoys fishing, remodeling and spending time with his grandchildren. Dewayne’s largest fish is a 6 lb freshwater bass.

Dustin Lemler, age 40, grew up in Avon Park and, after graduating from Palm Beach Atlantic College in 1992, he now resides in Franklin, Tennessee. Dustin also has worked in the education system as a band director for eight years in the Tampa Bay area. He has a strong faith basis, working at The People’s Church as Director of Visual Arts & Production for the past 10 years. He enjoys sports cars, raising tropical fish, and spending time with family. Dustin’s largest fish is a 5 lb freshwater bass and a 26 lb saltwater snook.

Darren Lemler, age 37, also grew up in Avon Park and, after graduating from Clearwater Christian College in 1996, now resides in Largo, FL with his wife, Erin and their four children. He owns his own company DRLemler Inc., is a member of the First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, and works as a general building contractor. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and sports. Darren’s largest fish is a 5 foot tarpon in saltwater and an 11 lb 9 oz bass in freshwater.

Ian Lemler is Darren’s his oldest son and shares his father’s passion for fishing, along with other sports, such as little league baseball and soccer. Ian is a huge fan of the Tampa Bay Rays. Ian’s largest fish is a freshwater bass at 7 lb 11 oz.

What bonds this family of men together is their Christian faith and their love of fishing, hunting, and sports in general. We shared all kinds of fish stores and spiritual stories, and boy oh boy did we catch fish, as you can see by these pictures. And this is in the

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DWAYNE middle of the summer! As the old saying goes - “dog days of summer,” so this is usually the hardest time of the year to catch bass. First of all, the lake has been drawn down low so they can work on all the locks. Secondly, the water temperature is between 85-90 degrees and that makes it tough. Plus, the outside temperature is in the 90’s, making the heat index in the 100’s.

Now, let’s take time to talk about the trip. Darren called me and wanted to do a bass fishing trip on July 13, so we all met at the Hwy 60 bridge on Kissimmee. I had the pontoon boat already in the water before daybreak.

We went up the lake about four or five miles. Now the fun begins. I put down the trolling motor, put Ian and his Uncle Dustin from Tennessee in the two back seats and put two shiners out the back, placing the rods in the rod holders. We began to pull the edge of the Kissimmee grass line. It wasn’t but a few minutes that Ian had a 4 ¾ lb bass and then the fun began to increase. Everybody got

into the action. Dewayne got a 5 ½-5 ¾ lb bass, then Dustin caught one around 5 lb. Darren caught the biggest at 7 ¾ lb. All in all, they caught fish all morning. We experienced great fellowship and thanked the Lord up above for giving us a great morning on the lake.

Fishing Report

The one thing that I will remember most about this trip was the love for God and the outdoors, and to have the honor to have three generations at one time.

Until next time, God bless, be safe, and good fishing, Capt Dick

Lake Kissimmee –Grape Hammock Fish Camp has everything that you need to make your day go right. They are reporting that the bluegill and specs are still hitting early in the morning. Bass are still good early with shiners, and top water baits.

Lakeland waters – Also talked with Stacy at Phillips Bait & Tackle on Hwy 92E in Lakeland. Bass fishing is good early in the morning with top water baits. Bluegill are still doing okay with crickets. Stop in and tell them I sent you.

Toho – Still doing good on bass flipping the edge of the Kissimmee grass and top water bite is good early. Bass are still schooling early, so use top water plugs and shallow running rattle traps over submerged hydrilla patches.

Tips

DARREN

Ian

Coolers - With it being so hot, take a cooler of ice with plenty of water. Carry a couple of hand towels with you.

When you feel yourself getting too hot, lay a towel on the ice and then put it around your neck.

That will cool you down quickly.

There are also cooling neck scarves that you can get that have crystals inside them that, when soaked in water, will absorb and maintain the cooling sensation for hours.

Spinner bait skirts – You know how sometimes the heat will melt your skirts in your spinner bait box, especially rubber skirts. Here is how you fix that. Take some baby powder and put some in a zipper bag. Hold your bait outside the bag with your hook and skirt inside the bag. Zip it up and shake it. This will keep the skirts from sticking to each other and the box.

DOCKS SEAWALLS POLE BARNS 863-402-0400 www.chrismillermarineconstruction.com INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

21

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OCTOBER 2010

By: Justin Smith One of my first lessons on growing citrus was from my grandfather. I was about ten years old and had just started helping fertilize small trees. As we were riding through some grove he asked me, “Do you know what the most important kind of fertilizer is for any grove?” I thought really hard trying to remember what the name on the bags had been. I finally admitted that I could not remember the name. He just grinned and said, “Your tracks.” I always remembered that and as the years progressed I began to understand it.

Knowing your grove is absolutely one of the most important things any grower needs to do. This goes much deeper than just riding around looking at the trees. Some of the things that are not given that much thought are extremely important to know and pass on.

With current technology, knowing your grove is easier and more efficient than ever. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) we can make highly detailed maps. These maps can be wonderful and amazing tools for planning and making decisions about your grove. Just a few things GIS can offer solutions for are, irrigation, fertilizer, pesticide, planning for the future and even property taxes.

Consider the irrigation lines in your grove. Many times the original owner who put in an irrigation system has either sold the grove or passed on leaving it to the next generation. This can be extremely important information for owners and managers to have access to. Using GIS, the entire irrigation system can be mapped and outlined. The data can be layered showing as much or as little information as needed. Examples are pump stations, underground lines, risers or any other water related infrastructure which may be desired. Even the ages of each feature can easily be shown.

As citrus growers we must always be aware of our chemical usage for many reasons. Properly maintaining the health of the environment, being mindful of possible contamination to any humans or ecosystems, and, of course, ever rising prices are important factors. Herein lies even more solutions offered by GIS. Yields can be monitored and cross referenced by underlying soil types and fertilizer applications. Tree densities can be tracked, which allow for more informed decisions on fertilizer

rates and even rootstock selections. Extremely accurate records can be maintained on chemical applications. This will give the ability to positively identify possible contamination sights. When cross referenced with volume of application, distances to sights and weather conditions, contamination sources can be proven or disproven. This can also greatly decrease the liability of a grower. Disease and pests can be monitored and tracked with very little margin of error, while exact acreage can be calculated for more precise and targeted chemical applications as well.

Planning for the future is always an important part of any agricultural operation, and citrus is no exception. We have already seen how GIS mapping can allow us to monitor for future plantings and applications, but how about the next generation?

Knowing your grove also means knowing its history. Without that knowledge we are destined to make the same mistakes over and over. Mapping can eliminate some of those mistakes in the future by allowing us to know what has worked and not worked in different areas of our groves.

Knowing your grove through utilization of GIS can also have some more indirect values. We are fortunate to have agricultural property tax evaluations for the State of Florida. By knowing your grove and having GIS records of precise acreage, you are more equipped to monitor your own property taxes. When you have the accurate and defined data on your property, which can include ages, yields and disease pressure, the information is irrefutable. Property Appraisers do not have the ability to know your groves as well as you do. It is as much an owner’s responsibility to make sure their property taxes are correct as it is the Property Appraiser.

GIS mapping gives the ability to have such vital information readily available to anyone who may need it with pinpoint accuracy. This kind of precision allows a grower to make more informed decisions on just about all aspects of their operation.

With this kind of power available to a grower, especially a grower/ manager of large acreage, it can translate into dramatic direct and indirect savings as well as maximize production.

Knowing your grove is of absolute importance to a successful citrus operation. That first lesson I learned from my grandfather about citrus was full of great wisdom, by a great citrus grower.

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

23

CF Garden - grown on sand/clay reclamation and supported by fertilizer. Crops include yellow squash, zucchini, okra, tomatoes, peas, peppers, onions, and more!

Please join us in supporting these community events!

CF Industries proudly supports Hardee County, our Phosphate Operations home for more than 30 years!

Friday Night Live! “Pumpkins in the Park” Main Street Wauchula October 15th — 5 pm to 9 pm

Hardee Senior High School Homecoming Parade Main Street Wauchula October 22nd — 2 pm

CF Industries Peace River Cleanup and Canoe Trip November 6th — 9 am to 2 pm

For more information, contact CF Industries at (863) 375-4321

Phosphate Operations “Helping Farmers Feed a Hungry World” 6209 N. County Road 663 • Bowling Green, Florida 33834 • 863-375-4321 • www.cfindustries.com 24

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

h t i a F s ’ r e m A Far

By Kayley Cobb

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.”

Psalm 33:12 The United States of America was founded on godly principles by faithful men and women who prayed. “The Constitution of the United States, a document which has served as a foundation of the freest country in the history of the world, is largely the product of Christian men with a biblical worldview.

God has blessed our country. He blessed the early Americans with good crops of food, clothing and shelter. He provided a place where they could worship freely. Today, we can still worship freely in the church of our choice, vote for our political leaders, and live in relative peace and freedom. But even though our spiritual heritage is rich, the moral fabric of our nation has been unraveling for decades. As believers, we have the authority and privilege of coming before God to ask for restoration. We need a revival! We need to pray for our nation and our leaders. The power of prayer moves the heart of God to action. America must get back to a nation where our God is the Lord!

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

25

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OCTOBER 2010

1 results from trials at The University of Georgia 2 results from trials at The University of Florida

ffa Student of the month Haley Webb - Charlotte H.S. Charlotte Sr. FFA’s student of the month is Haley Webb. Haley’s a senior this year, serving as Chapter President as well as District X President. She was recently chosen to represent Florida FFA as a delegate to National Convention. Along with the current state officers, several members of last year’s officer team, and one other high school student, they will represent the state of Florida in making decisions that will affect every FFA student in the nation. “I am extremely happy and honored to serve Florida FFA in this way. I applied last year to be a delegate but wasn’t chosen, so when applications came out this year I tried again—I put a lot of time and effort into the application, and this time I was successful. It goes to show you that persistence pays off, I guess.”

Haley has been very active at the chapter level since entering FFA in the 9th grade.”I wasn’t eligible to be an officer in 9th grade, but as soon as the end of the year came around I applied and was chosen for the next year’s officer team.” She’s attended every workshop, conference and convention available, and this year was chosen President. Because her mom is also her advisor, a screening committee was called in to rank the officer applicants, and with the most points awarded, she became the President.

Haley raises show cattle and exhibits them throughout the state, even going to Perry, GA for several shows. “I’m very pleased with my cows and their calves, and I just took one of the calves to the Kissimmee show where she won the light-weight division and 4th place overall. When you watch one of your babies achieving something like that it gives you an amazing feeling!” Her mom feels the same way about her “babies” (big sister Hilary and Haley).

When not showing cattle, Haley also finds time to raise and sell rabbits to fellow chapter members. “We bought rabbits last year for the school farm for my mom to use with her animal science classes. I had never really been around rabbits, but soon fell in love with them and saw a need to raise them and sell to other chapter members for showing at the county fair. They’re a great option for a project when a larger animal is out of the question.” Haley has also served the Jr. Florida Cattlemen’s Assoc. as Secretary for the past two years, participates in speaking events, on the Livestock Judging and Forestry teams, and hopes to add Land Judging and Par Pro to her list of activities this year. With dual credit courses in high school and college, that’s a pretty heavy load, but Haley handles it well. “It really helps you learn time management, and the value of caffeine,” she jokes.

When asked about her favorite things in FFA she quickly responds that all the amazing friends she’s made throughout the state are at the top of the list, and adds that her trip to Washington D.C. for WLC this summer was a great experience. “I can’t wait to travel to Indianapolis with the other National Delegates in October. I’ve

watched them for the past four years, and now I have a chance to be one of them, and to serve FFA at that level is really the highlight of my FFA career so far.”

Haley is looking forward to State Officer Screening in April, and hopes to be on the ballot in June at the 2011 convention. With all her accomplishments so far, she’s well on her way to achieving that goal. Keep up the good work Haley— you make us proud!

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

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Equine dentistry

“Straight from the Horses’ Mouth”

By Kellie Duke How do you like going to the dentist? Is it something you do on a maintenance basis, or do you go when you have a problem? Did you know that horses also need to have yearly dental checkups? On a recent visit to a dental facility for horses, I observed a horse client and was educated by Dr. Liz Yelvington Steele, DVM and her husband, TJ Steele (Equine Dentist) on just why a horse needs to have his teeth checked. Horses can develop periodontal disease, malocclusions, gingivitis, chipped or fractured teeth, bitting damage, and razor sharp teeth that can rub up against their cheeks and tongue and cause pain. They may need an extraction of a tooth or their teeth may just need to be equilibrated or in layman’s terms, they need their teeth “floated.”

According to Dr. Liz and TJ, “Neglecting routine care of your horses’ teeth can lead to problems with eating and performance. As a horse eats and drops his head, his lower jaw drops forward. He nips with his front teeth (incisors) and this starts the mastication process.

The horse eats down, out, up and in. They have hypsedont teeth and as they eat, they are literally wearing out their teeth. As the teeth wear, they can become unbalanced. The teeth can develop sharp edges and become ineffective for chewing and holding the horses’ food. As the horse drops his food, he not only wastes the feed, but as he struggles to find the food he dropped on the ground, he picks up sand along with the feed, which can lead to other health problems. If the horse gets the proper care that he needs at an early age, he will break down his food properly and get more of the nutrients you feed him.” TJ said, “If you feed your horse hay and you notice clumps or balls of hay coming out of his mouth, this is a sign that your horse is not breaking down his food.” As for performance, the horses’ teeth have a big part to play in this. “If your horse won’t turn like you want them to or perform like they should, it could be due to dental problems,” he said.

Dr. Liz Yelvington Steele said, “Before you put a bit in the mouth of a horse, you should see an equine dentist. The wolf teeth of a young colt should be removed and a bit seat put in place before you should even begin to advance in the training of a colt. This way,

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ies us stor t o r o m Hu ou tory ab and his in Florida g up growin

by Alvin Futch

you eliminate all the problems beforehand. You are giving your horse a fair chance to be trained properly and free of pain. We get calls all the time from people who want their horses to be seen by a veterinarian because they are dropping their food or are not eating.

An exam by an equine dentist and dental prophalaxis is the answer.

Laws vary from state to state as to how a horses teeth can be taken care of. Here is Florida, a non veterinarian can perform dentistry, but must be under the direct supervision of a veterinarian.

The proper technique requires sedation, which has to be given by a veterinarian. TJ works under the direct supervision of his wife, Dr. Liz Yelvington Steele. She is there to administer the sedative for the horse and to give advice should TJ need it. TJ is highly skilled and received his training at the Academy of Equine Dentistry in Glens Ferry, Idaho. It takes a year to certify. A Certified Equine Dental Practitioner is required to have 724 credits and must have their hands on 125 horses, where 25 out of the 120 must have incisor misalignments. They must also complete a 50 hour block of continuing education every 18 months and should belong to an equine dental association. TJ has a mentor who has helped him tremendously in his quest to be the best Equine Dentist he can be.

His mentor is Will Croncich, an Advanced Certified Equine Dental Practitioner from Okeechobee.

After watching TJ and Dr. Liz take care of their client, I can tell you that this is a very physical job. It takes a lot of strength and flexibility to perform dental procedures on a horse. It also requires technical skills to achieve the best results. Dr. Liz wanted to stress the importance of using only a properly trained equine dentist. The procedure must begin with a general health exam by a veterinarian.

Once the horse has been found healthy, sedation is administered.

Next a thorough oral mouth exam is completed using a bright light source and a speculum, so the farthest molars can be seen. Would you let your dentist work in your mouth if he were blind?

The Academy of Equine Dentistry provides veterinarian and non veterinarians with proper training to perform equine dentistry.

Graduating veterinarians who wish to perform this procedure should seek advanced training at a dental school with at least the credentials and qualifications required by the Academy of Equine Dentistry.

After seeing the condition of the client’s teeth when he arrived, and watching the procedure to correct his problem, I agree that all horses should see their equine dentist for a yearly checkup. As it is with people, if you start the preventive care early on, you prevent more major problems later on.

Now you have heard it “Straight from the horses’ mouth.” Call and get your horse an appointment today! Ask your veterinarian for a qualified list of equine dentists or call TJ Steele today at 863673-4810.

Endorsed by M-M-Mel Tillis and Al Berry.

Look for first edition of book at local retailers.

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OCTOBER 2010

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

We r Delive

PumPkins in the Park

October 15 from 5 - 9pm heritage Park in Downtown Wauchula. trick or treating, Goulish Games, Costume Contests, Drawings, Live entertainment and more!

MAIN STREET WAUCHULA 1ST ANNUAL TRAIL RIDE

Saturday, November 13 Registration: 8a.m.

Ride: 9a.m. – Noon Lunch will be provided after ride.

Since 1997, Main Street Wauchula has been revitalizing downtown Wauchula for the betterment of the community and Hardee County. Join us for a half day, fun filled ride and fundraiser through forested wilderness, across beautiful streams, and experience nature! All proceeds benefit the Main Street Wauchula Program. For more information call 863.767.0330.

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

31

By Ron Lambert I am at my desk at 6:00 a.m. on a Thursday morning, September 9, 2010. My name is Ron Lambert and I have been offered the opportunity and privilege of contributing to In The Field Magazine. Since this publication appeared in my office, I have thoroughly enjoyed many of the articles featuring people in surrounding counties with similar backgrounds as myself.

As a third generation Native Floridian involved in a totally family owned and operated ornamental plant nursery, I look forward to sharing both past and future events in our lives that shape and define what it means to be a member of a special minority, the challenged Florida Farmer.

My grandparents, Porter and Esther Lambert, moved to a small farm located in Lemon Grove, Florida in the 1930’s.

Check old maps, it’s truly really there. They grew vegetables of all types for shipment to Northern markets. During this time a large quantity of produce and citrus was leaving Hardee County to the Northern cities. My grandfather kept a diary for almost 50 years, detailing day to day happenings about crop prices, the weather, and community life. This book is a cherished reminder of our family heritage.

After an Army tour in Japan my father Ronald B. Lambert went to work for Goochland Nursery near Fort Meade, Florida.

After ten years there, my parents moved back to Lemon Grove in early 1960’s and began the foundation of what today is Buckhorn Nursery. Buckhorn Nursery is an approximately 100 acre operation. Our customer base is spread throughout the Southeast but predominately based in Florida.

Many of you reading this have chosen agriculture as a life’s career. Farm life is full of daily challenges, and set backs are common. We have to be able to deal with the unexpected, yet necessary, repairs of our tractors, pumps, machinery, the emergency care of our animals, and almost any combination of the above can fast become a crisis. These problems seem to always occur when you are already very busy and, usually late in the day or perhaps on a weekend. Even so, we rarely consider any other job as being an acceptable alternative.

This is because we see things in our daily lives that many

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people h a v e never had a chance to witness.

They truly have no idea of what they are missing. These include many wondrous outdoor experiences. Just imagine the view of a herd of cattle in the tall grass in the early morning dawn as the sun begins to rise, and a light fog begins to lift. Then capturing, the lovely scene and beauty of a doe deer with her young fawn, romping away from you as you watch them disappear from sight. Daily we are able to watch a crop develop toward what we hope and trust will bring successful financial rewards. It doesn’t matter whether the crop is citrus, vegetables, cattle or even ornamental plants. We all are part of an ongoing process and we are truly fortunate enough to be an American Farmer, Rancher and Grower.

Next month we will talk about another rapidly disappearing Florida Native tradition, the annual family picnic to the woods.

This could have been on the 4th of July Labor Day, Thanksgiving or even a birthday celebration. Whatever the reason or the occasion, they were special memorable events.

Until next month, have a Blessed Day my fellow farmers.

No Farmers No Food

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33

By Jim Konkoly Photos by Sue Duchow Across the country, from the nation’s capital to cow country, there’s so much talk about hard times. How about a “poor boys make good, rags to not only riches but happiness too” story? Let’s talk about two brothers and their hardscrabble life as kids and young men during the longest and worst economic bust in this country’s history. Let’s talk about how they faced every rough challenge in one way only— hard work, more hard work, and still more hard work. Throw in some military service in World War II and the Korean War, add a ton of integrity and a whole lot of distinctively don’t-complain, country-boy humor, and you get the Turner Brothers, Eugene and Philip.

They started with almost nothing in Arcadia and went on to

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build much more than five successful businesses—four in agriculture production on about 15,000 acres and a realty company. They also donated the land on which DeSoto County’s main event venue was built, the Turner Agri-Civic Center. Both brothers say they’re blessed with great families.

On September 14, 2010 the brothers were honored by the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce for their life long contributions to the community. As Gene, 86 and Phil, 78 recently spent nearly three hours telling visitors about their life and showing them their family’s cattle ranch, citrus groves and watermelon farm, it seemed for every 10 minutes they talked they spent at least five laughing.

The brothers were born in Arcadia because their parents and great grandfather moved there from Pine Log, Georgia, a rural community originally named Possum Trot. It was in the early 1900s, and according to Phil, “They came here because they were starving to death in Georgia. They came here to try to make a living.” Phil, whose sense of humor tends toward Johnny Carson’s impish zingers, as opposed to Gene, more like Johnny’s sidekick straight man Ed McMahon, points out that both he and his brother were born at home, with the doctor coming out for the delivery.

“The way the story goes, when I was born and the doctor was delivering, the house caught on fire,” Phil said, deadpan serious. “My dad was running around the house and chimney trying to put the fire out,” he added. Then, his face twisting into a wry smile, he said, “Ever since I found out about that, I’ve been hoping that ain’t a sign of where I am going.”

Phil said that he could ride a horse and rope a calf by the time he was 6 or 7 years old. Today, he and Gene ride around checking on more than 4,000 Brangus cattle at the 12,000-acre Turner Cattle Company in comfort, in their spacious, four-wheel-drive, air-conditioned SUV. When they were helping their father, John, get the ranch started, they rocked and rattled around in a Model A. Of course, there was no air conditioning in cars back then.

“Heck,” Phil adds, laughing, “we were lucky if we had a door on it.”

The way hard work and humor helped Gene succeed can been seen in the way he opened his first business, Gene’s Restaurant in Arcadia.

“I found out when you run a restaurant, how you spell the word restaurant is---capital W-O-R-K,” Gene said. He did all the jobs, explaining, “Whatever help I didn’t have on any certain day, I did. If the cook wasn’t there, I cooked. If I needed to be a waiter, I did. If I had to run the cash register I would. And when need be, I’d wash the dishes.”

Gene’s Restaurant not only succeeded but also led directly to Gene’s successful launching of Turner Realty. And he started his restaurant “by ignorance.” Ignorance? At the time, Gene said, he hardly knew anything about being a restaurant customer, let alone the owner and operator. “Back then, I hardly went to town to buy a hamburger because I didn’t have the money.”

Phil brags about brother Gene’s launching his real estate business, saying that back in the 1950s most of the realtors didn’t get out and hustle to try and drum up business, while his brother got to know everybody and ran into people with land for sale. Gene marketed properties in one simple way, hand written notices posted on the bulletin board behind the cash register at his restaurant.

“My first week in real estate, I sold 3,500 acres and made $5,000 ---and I had never seen $5,000 before,” Gene recalled. “To make a long story short, I sold that same piece of land five times again in the next five years.” You won’t hear Gene boasting about himself, but Phil isn’t shy about singing his brother’s praises. “He sold a lot of big ranches in Florida because everybody knew they could trust him. He had people up north who bought large properties sight unseen, on his word alone.”

Turner Cattle Company began in 1937 when their father, John, purchased a small portion of what became the current ranch for 50 cents an acre. “And 50 cents was hard to come up with back then,” Phil said. As teenagers and young adults, both brothers helped run the growing cattle ranch. Their biggest, hardest and dreariest task was their constant battle against the deadly screwworm. This maggot-like pest attaches quickly to any blood, particularly the belly button of newborn calves, and to cuts and scrapes on cows. The screwworm reproduced quickly and voraciously ate flesh.

The brothers battled the deadly screwworm without the help of, or Continued on page 36

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35

Continued from page 35 even advice from, a veterinarian. “We didn’t even know what a veterinarian was back then,” Phil said. “And if we did know what a veterinarian was, I’m sure there wasn’t a vet anywhere near us.” Fortunately, in 1958, scientists working at the Air Force Bombing Range outside of Avon Park in Highlands County, discovered a way to eradicate the deadly screwworm. Phil explained that they bred a male screwworm that was sterile. The sterile males were released and bred with the females. “In one single year, with the sterile males, they completely eliminated the screwworm.”

In the middle of World War II, Phil had to shoulder most of the work on the cattle ranch when Gene went off to the Army Air Corps. Gene made it in on his second attempt. Young Phil had to work harder than ever on the ranch because just about every able-bodied man young enough to work hard went off to the World War II effort. “They emptied out Arcadia,” he recalls. “You could hardly hire a cowboy. About the only fellas left were either 4-F (physically unfit to serve) or rejected from military service because they were alcoholics.” The Turner family was able to hire a few cowboys here and there, but not many during the war years.

When the Korean War came in 1950, it was Phil’s turn to serve and like Gene, fate would keep him on state side duty. His National Guard unit manned anti-aircraft guns at the George Washington Bridge, one of the main routes in and out of New York City. A particularly vivid memory for Phil was getting on the train to leave Arcadia with all the other National Guardsmen called up for the war. So many young men were called to the war, he said, that the train tracks were lined with families and “the tears just flowed down the street.”

Phil has another vivid memory of leaving for military service on the train from Arcadia. “I was tickled to death that my father came to see me off and he gave me $20.00. He said if I didn’t gamble, then that would take care of me until the Army gave me my first paycheck.

Well, the very first thing I did when the train pulled away was get into a poker game and it wasn’t long before I lost that whole $20.00.”

Both brothers continue to enjoy fishing and hunting, particularly quail hunting, though Gene doesn’t shoot anymore. “But he goes with us on hunts,” Phil said, “and gives us hell when we miss a shot.”

“I’ve always enjoyed life and I think I am the luckiest guy who ever lived,” Gene said. “I’ve had a good life and I’ve been fortunate.

In my lifestyle, it just doesn’t take too much to be happy. In particular,

I ’ve been fortunate to be married most of my life—married three times. Each marriage was good,” he said but added,” With my last wife, Trudy, I really hit the jackpot. And I’m so glad I married her last, not first.

This October we’ll be married 25 years.” About the relatively brief periods when he wasn’t married, Gene said, “I’ll tell you this—the one thing about a house is that it gets awful big when it’s empty.”

Phil has been married to his wife, Shirley for 52 years. He points out that he met her in Fort Ogden, which he doesn’t think was coincidence because “they’ve got some good folks down there.”

They have four children, Libby McKettrick, who is the bookkeeper for all the family businesses and with husband, Carl operates the Arcadia Stockyard, John Henry Turner III who runs the Turner Cattle Operations, Phil Turner Jr., who runs the watermelon operations and Mac Turner, who runs the family’s citrus operations.

Gene has two children by his first marriages—son, Eugene H. Turner, Jr. (“Brother”) who is the broker at Turner Realty Company, Inc. along with son Eugene H. Turner, III (“Trey”) who is a Salesman at Turner Reality Company. Both Eugene Jr. (“Brother”) and Eugene III (“Trey”) also run The E.H Turner Family citrus operation.

Daughter, Lana Turner is in the real estate business in Sarasota. Gene also has three stepchildren, Mike, Angie and Dale Herrington.

Phil and Gene said they have no plans to retire, especially because they enjoy staying involved with the Turner businesses and have Continued on next page

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great family and staff to make the decisions and do the work. Every morning, Phil is at the cattle ranch at 6:40 a.m. to meet with the staff and help organize the work day. “Of course I don’t have to,” he said, because the ranch is in good hands without him. So he said that staying involved in the work he has always loved, yet being able to do anything he wants for fun for the day, is about as good a deal as life hands out.

Since growing up in the Great Depression, the Turner Brothers have seen amazing changes in DeSoto County and southern Florida. One of their father’s first business ventures was getting a refrigerated truck, driving to Tampa to pick up produce and meat and then selling it in south Florida. Sales covered Sarasota, Punta Gorda, Ft Myers, Belle Glade, and Pahokee, to cover all of south Florida including Okeechobee. “He had most of the business down in the Glades and all through sugar country,” Phil recalled. One sales stop always on his route was Naples. “There were only three businesses in Naples back then,” Gene said. “There was a liquor store, a service station and one small grocery store. That’s all Naples was, and look at it now.”

Both Turner Brothers enjoy the success that they worked so hard to achieve, but both say it isn’t the money that ultimately makes one happy. Both talk about growing up and struggling through the 1930s Depression with a lot of humor and not one complaint. About money being so tight that the luxury of buying a hamburger in a restaurant was a rare treat, Phil said, “We didn’t miss anything, and we didn’t know we were missing anything. We thought we were as rich as anybody.”

Framed and d Turner’s office isplayed prominently in G Arcadia is a 13 at Turner Realty in downtoene friend. It’s fram -line verse written by a specwn Phillip, say it sued and Gene, as well his brothial “Never Stop ms up their philosophy. Tit er led Working If you are poor ,” it reads: -- work.

If you are ri If you are happ ch -- continue to work.

Idleness gives yo y -- keep right on working. u room for dou bts and fears.

If disappointm If sorrow overw ents come -- work. helms yo seem untrue -- u, and loved ones work When dreams ar e shattered and . hope seems Work as if you dead -- work. r life was in per il, for it really is .

Whatever happ ens or matters -- work.

Work fait Work is the greahfully -- work with faith. te Work will cure st material remedy available . both mental an d physical afflictions.

Work until you feel you can then work a litt work no more -le more.

In honor of Ray mond C. Su

plee Raymond Supl ee is Gene Turn er’s longtime ac his real estate countant for and agricultura l businesses. “H to me,” Turner e’s like a son said about Su plee. “His fath before he pass er wrote that ed away, and I love it.”

Turner said he and his brothe r family believe strongly that ha and his whole extended rd work pays accountant, he off. About his said agriculture goes , “I think he’s as good as ther e is as far as . And his integr ity is as good as good gets.”

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

37

h g i H

FIVE!!!

By: Johnny Cone

Photo by CMFoto Just about everyone enjoys seeing a dog with a trick or two up its sleeve. One of my favorites is called “high five.” This is a modernized version of the handshake dogs have been doing for years. “High five” is a lot of fun and easy to teach. The dog actually teaches itself by association. It just takes a little time.

To begin teaching this trick, you need a quiet place and a few treats. Take a treat, put it in the palm of your hand, and close your hand around the treat. Then place the dog in a sit facing you. Place your closed hand with the treat, fingers up, below the dogs head, close to the body and about chest high. The dog will most likely try to get the treat with its mouth. It will likely mouth and lick at your hand. Don’t move your hand and don’t say anything. Just wait. Sooner or later the dog will paw at your hand.

The second its paw touches your hand, open your hand and allow the dog to get the treat. Remain silent at this point. This was an accident. The dog has not figured out why you opened your hand and allowed it access to the treat. Repeat this step over and over until the dog puts its paw on your hand as soon as you put it under its face. You can give verbal praise in conjunction with the treat if you like. But don’t overdo it though. A simple “good” is enough.

You want the dogs focus to be on getting the treat at this point.

What you are doing here is teaching the dog to target your hand with its paw to get what it wants. How long it takes the dog to figure this out varies from dog to dog. Some figure it out in a few repetitions, some take more time. You will want to repeat this exercise for several training sessions before moving on.

You want the dog really sharp on this behavior. Please note that you can be as specific as you like. I only open my hand if the dog touches with the same paw every time. It does not really matter but I prefer my dogs “high five” to my right hand with their left paw. So I only reward touched by the left paw.

Once the dog is very reliable at this step it is time to move on. In the second you once again place your hand closed fist, fingers up under the dog’s nose. Except in this step your hand is empty. You are still going to reward the paw touch with a treat. But keep the treat in your free hand. At this point the dog should touch your hand with it paw as soon as you put it down there. As soon as it touches your closed fist open it and give it the treat with your other hand. This gets the dog to begin

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looking up at you when it touches your hand. Again practice this step over a few sessions, but by now it should move fairly quickly.

The next step is to place your open hand palm up under the dogs head. By this point the dog should immediately touch your open hand with its paw. It is the same as the previous step. As soon as the dog touches your open palm give it a treat with your free hand and a little verbal praise. Like the other steps, I like to practice this over a few sessions. I like to add a little more verbal praise at this point, because I am going to eventually ask the dog to perform the completed trick without any food rewards.

The final step is to turn your open hand in front of the dog fingers up as you would if you were giving a friend a high five.

The dog should really have the hang of it now and immediately touch your hand. This is where you add the command. As soon as you place your hand in front of the dog, give the command “high five.” Practice this step over several sessions with treats and verbal praise. Once the dog is performing the trick every time you ask for it, you can begin weaning it off the food treats and going with only verbal praise.

So there you have it, a fun trick that you and your dog will both enjoy. You can take it even farther if you like. You can go back to the beginning and teach it to “high five” your other hand with its opposite paw. And you can even teach it to touch both paws to both hands at the same time. I call this variation “give me ten.” Your friends, family, and even strangers will get a kick out of “high five.” They can join in as well. If your dog is well mannered with others, offer them the opportunity to give your dog a “high five.” It brings smiles all around every time.

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Save the Champion Trees and the Champs May Save Us

By Jim Konkoly In some years, Floridians have bragged of having a national champion in football, basketball or rodeo. Every year, though, this state is the home of national champion trees.

The Sunshine State has 175 national champion trees, each the largest and probably also the oldest of its species. One Florida national champion, a Bald Cypress named “The Senator,” lives in the town of Longwood in Seminole County and is not only the largest tree of its species in the United States, “It also is the largest bald cypress in the world,” says John Alleyne, who holds a Ph.D. in plant genetics and is the Horticulture Extension Agent in Highlands County.

The Florida Division of Forestry, with the help of champion tree advocates like Alleyne, is trying to find new state and national champion trees, as well as save the state’s existing champs for propagation. Breeding the largest and probably oldest tree of each species, Alleyne explained, is a strong method of working toward “economic, environmental and social sustainability, as well as biodiversity.”

“We define the a champion tree,” he explained, “as the largest individual specimen of a species. And these champion trees are some of the oldest living organisms on Earth.”

The importance of each champion tree lies in the answer to this basic question: Why did this one individual tree survive longer and grow larger than the tens of thousands, if not millions of other trees within the same species? “The champion tree,” Alleyne explained, “has withstood all of the environmental pressures and still thrived while others did not, or did not for so long.” To become the biggest, he added, “the champion must have withstood hurricanes and drought, heat stress and pollution, carbon emissions and you name it.” Champion trees are being designated, for both the state and national levels, in hopes they will be saved. These trees give us the best chance of creating the strongest, healthiest trees for future generations.

“In terms of breeding -- for plants and animals-- certain traits are endowed,” said Alleyne. He is an expert on plant genetics and was sent by the United Nations to help revive distressed agricultural areas in India and Nepal. “Today,” he added at his Sebring extension service office, “sustainability is the buzzword. Champion trees are the iconic model of sustainability. They have resisted all the environmental pressures over long periods of time and still improve living conditions for many forms of life.”

The mission of the champion tree movement, which dates back to the mid 1970s, “is to help lead economic, environmental and social sustainability by protecting, propagating and planting a living legacy of champion trees,” Alleyne said.

Champion trees may hold the key to saving the tree canopies in cities and small towns, he adds. “In the United States and most of the developed world,” Alleyne explained, “the majority of the original forests are gone. And in the urban areas, where 80 percent of the people live, the urban tree canopy is dying or drastically reduced.”

Trees in the urban canopies are dying because of air pollution, carbon dioxide emissions, and being impacted by concrete -- the socalled concrete jungle.”

By planting the offspring of champion trees, the urban canopies could be better restored and live longer, since the genetics have been proven by time to be extraordinarily strong.

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“ T h e average lifespan of an urban tree is 7 to 11 years,” Alleyne said.

Florida Champion Bald Cypress “These champion trees are hundreds of Taxodium distichium years old and some Big Tree Park, Longwood more than a thousand.” Seminole County, Florida Urban canopies Circumference = 425 inches (35.4 feet) are important, and Height = 118 feet threatened, not only Average Crown Spread = 57 feet age: 3,500 years (estimated) in the Miami’s and the Tampa’s and Tallahassee’s of this world, but also in small towns like Lake Placid, which 1,700 people call home in southern Highlands County. “An example of working to save trees is the great work they are doing in Lake Placid, the great efforts to restore their urban canopy,” Alleyne said. “What they are quietly doing is reducing energy costs. More shade means less air conditioning. Trees reduce storm water run-off and even reduce medical costs.” Just as scientists have proven that for most people, watching fish swim in a tropical fish tank lowers a person’s blood pressure, he explained, there is growing evidence that living in and enjoying a community with a beautiful natural environment buffers threats to our health.

“Economic stimulus” is another goal of the champion tree movement. As one example, nurseries could sell champion tree (offspring),” Alleyne said.

Some of Florida’s state and national champion trees have been destroyed, Alleyne said. As a result, the state’s Division of Forestry is trying to find new champions as well as promoting the protection and appreciation of champion trees. “In some counties there are regulations to protect the trees. While in other counties there are no safeguards,” he said. “A champion tree can be hundreds of years old and it can be destroyed in a matter of minutes and be gone forever.

And then no one can study the genetics to see what has sustained it for so long.”

Alleyne has worked with the champion tree project both locally and nationally. The late Norman Cook of Avon Park, gave Alleyne offspring of the champion Ridge Holly tree, which grows on the Lake Wales Ridge. Alleyne cloned it and planted the offspring at the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo and the Tropical Ranch Botanical Gardens in Stuart. He also went to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate as part of a team that took offspring of white ash trees which the Father of our Country planted in the 18th Century, and planted them at the U.S. Capital Building, the Pentagon, and Arlington National Cemetery.

Alleyne is both knowledgeable and passionate about promoting sustainability and bio-diversity. No less than the current health and the ultimate survival of the human race are at stake, he says. “Biodiversity is the foundation of life, of all life on Earth,” he said. “It supports all life, it is the web of life for all life forms.” Alleyne’s study and work in agriculture have allowed him to observe a great portion of the web of life on this planet. He was born and raised in Trinidad, where he acquired an English accent and learned to play Caribbean rhythms and melodies on the steel drums.

He earned his Bachelors, Masters and Ph.D. from Washington State University, the University of Idaho, and the University of Arkansas. Alleyne calls himself a Gator, as he did post-graduate work at the University of Florida. Besides his overseas work for the United Nations, he has been an Extension Agent in Martin County on the East Coast, Pinellas County on the Gulf Coast, before coming to Highlands County.

From all his studies and scientific work, Alleyne said he believes a Native American chief best summed up why sustainability and bio-diversity are so important in general, and big trees in particular.”Lake Placid is looking at its trees the way the American Indians valued trees,” he said. “Chief Seattle (for whom the Oregon city is named) saw the destruction of the forest and he said what I believe.

He said, ‘The Earth does not belong to man. Man belongs to the Earth. And so whatever man does to the Earth falls on himself. So, if you kill the earth you are killing yourself.’

Anyone who suspects they have or know of a state or national champion tree, or wants more information, can contact the Division of Forestry at www.fl-dof.com, or go to www.americanforests.org/ resources/bigtrees. People also can contact Alleyne for more information at 863-402-6540.

TOP: Florida Co-Champion Live Oak Quercus virginiana var. virginiana Beech Family — Oak Genus “The Cellon Oak” LaCrosse, Alachua County, Florida Circumference = 360 inches (30 feet) Height = 85 feet Average Crown Spread = 160 feet Total Points = 485 LEFT: National Champion The General Sherman Tree.

Giant Sequoia Sequoia National Park California Circumference = 102.6 feet Height = 274.9 feet Average Crown Spread = 106.5 feet

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By Alvin Futch The other day I thought about the time we were working with cousin Loye on the Crum Ranch grading a road from State Road 39, three miles through palmetto woods east to the sheep pens. The road bed needed the grade in order for trucks to haul livestock out to market.

Mr. Crum had an antique grader that was pulled with a dozer. To operate it a man had to stand on a platform on the back and turn a huge iron wheel about three feet in diameter.

That controlled the up and down of the blade and two other levers controlled the angle of the blade. I was operating the dozer and Slick was standing on the platform at the controls.

He was working the blade at a sharp angle pulling up the front slope of the grade. I felt something jerk the dozer, and turned to find the point of the blade down in the bottom of the ditch.

It had hit a fat lightered stump which completely stalled the dozer. At the moment I turned back to look I saw Slick flying in the air about 15 feet above the grader. He looked like a big bull frog sailing along. He landed belly first in a palmetto patch.

The grader survived, and Slick came out with a few scratches.

After about a five minute recovery session for Slick we went back at it, and finished the job before supper.

(If you would like a copy of the book WILD AND WOOLEY, they are available at Knott Trading and Supply and Southside Farm Supply in Plant City. See our ad on Page 29)

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This will be the last time I write to you about Amendment 4. If you do not yet know about this important issue, it is time to gain knowledge on the subject. If you do know, make sure your family, friends and neighbors realize how important it is to beat this ballot initiative. Go to www.florida2010.org and www.floridafarmbureau.org.

I urge you not to easily tire of what is transpiring.

As October moves forward, more and more advertisements, speeches and letters will be heard, seen and read about this issue. You will be inundated. The county farm bureaus are planning to inform members at their annual meetings. Signs will be seen, bumpers stickers and information cards will be handed out to those attending.

It is imperative for our state to defeat this amendment in order to begin our economic recovery. There are many groups opposed to Amendment 4 as there are examples of how devastating this concept is to a town, county or city.

Last month I told you about the people who are behind this initiative. I think it bears repeating one more time. Their interests are not for Florida. They are self serving.

There are predominately four people supporting Amendment 4. Lesley Blackner is a wealthy Palm Beach attorney who has used nearly $1million of her fortune.

She is a co-author and founder of the amendment. Her logic dictates a business may have to wait two years before a project could be approved at a regularly scheduled election.

The second person on the list is an attorney from Tallahassee. Ross Burman co-founded the Amendment 4 Political Action Committee. By virtue of his support for this amendment, he is saying that decision making on development will be in the hands of voters. Yet when voters in St. Pete Beach approved some development projects in 2008, he is leading the effort to overturn the election. The result has been endless litigation at the expense of the St. Pete Beach taxpayers.

The third interesting character is Joseph Redner.

He owns Mons Venus strip club in Tampa. It is believed that under Amendment 4, pornographic establishments will have fewer restrictions on where they can conduct business.

Joyce Tarnow is the founder of Floridians for a Sustainable Population. According to her, Florida has too many people and Amendment 4 would curb growth thus helping to control population growth.

We live in a representative republic. We have a process in place to air out issues about various projects in our communities. We do not live in a pure democracy! Our founding fathers knew that would not work.

If passed, Amendment 4 would simply put more power into the hands of a few people. In our current system, we all have equal opportunity to speak out about issues and how our communities should look in the future. Involvement not apathy is what is needed. VOTE NO on 4!

Andy Neuhofer, Asst. Director - Field Services Florida Farm Bureau, District 6 Andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org

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1st Annual Smokin’ in the Swamp October 29 - 30 At the Fred Smith Rodeo Arena Brighton Seminole Reservation Okeechobee, Florida

There will be something for everyone at the Fred Smith Rodeo Arena October 29-30. Country Music Sensation, JAMEY JOHNSON, will be live in concert Friday Night, October 29, with special guest James Otto.

Gates will open at 6:00 with performances starting at 7:00 tickets are $29.00 and you will want to purchase them in advance ---see below for ticket outlets.

Award Winning BBQ from some of the best in the nation will be there Saturday, October 30, with gates opening at 10:00 a.m. for some great competition.

“The Florida Barbeque Association has joined with Amos Tiger and The Seminole Tribe of Florida to promote a huge contest not to be missed,” said Jimmy Brod, Vice-President of the FBA. “I am regularly asked by potential FBA barbecue participants and new members what they might expect while participating in an FBA sanctioned event. My response is the same whether they plan to judge the event, cook in the event, or just observe and eat. You are guaranteed to meet some of the finest people this country has to offer. My family and I have developed lifelong friendships in the FBA.” Mr. Jim Brod should know about great BBQ because the day he sent this information to me he had just found out that his team, Everglades Seasoning BBQ Team, was announced as the Florida participant at the Jack Daniel’s 22nd Annual World Championship Invitational Barbecue, October 22-23, in Lynchburg, TN. Please visit his website for further information at www.smokincrackerbbq.com.

If you have never been to the Fred Smith Arena then you need to come out and visit this weekend. There will be vendors throughout on the grounds, something for the children and to see what other events they have planned please visit their website at www.rezrodeo.com or call (863) 467-3039.

These great events cannot be possible with out great sponsors and the Fred Smith Arena would like to thank the following folks; First Bank of Indiantown, Seminole Casino Brighton, Everglades Equipment, Winnercom-ESPN, Comer Electric, Izzy’s Tire Sales, Little Big Man’s Marina, Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep, Deangelis Diamond Construction, Best Western, Holiday Inn Express and the Ah-Tah-Thi-IkiMuseum.

You may purchase your tickets in advance at the following locations; Brighton Seminole Casino, Brighton Trading Post, Everglades Farm Equipment, First Bank of Indiantown, Izzy’s Tire Sales, Lake Placid Feed, Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep, Custom Graphics & Signs or by phone (863) 467-6039.

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Virginia

Haywood Bennett

By Joanna Glisson-Lamarra SEBRING This month’s “Down Home Cook” is Virginia Haywood Bennett, otherwise known as “Nana.” Born i n Sebring, she has lived Highlands County for most of her life. Virginia was involved in raising beef cattle for 30 years, with properties in Avon Park and Polk County. These days she stays busy with her family. Mother of three, grandmother of five and greatgrandmother of two, she loves nothing more than to prepare them a home-cooked meal.

I’ve known Virginia my whole life, so I can tell you for certain that I’ve never been to her house when there wasn’t something on the stove or in the oven. It was hard to choose which one of her tasty creations we would publish, but she decided on her Zucchini Casserole. It’s fresh, simple, delicious, and always a crowd pleaser. The best part is you can vary the ingredients according to availability and the season. Also try this recipe with Yellow squash, Butternut squash, or winter squash.

• • • • • • • •

Zucchini Squash Casserole Ingredients 3 cups Zucchini squash 3 small Tomatoes (or 6 plum) ½ med Onion, chopped 1/3 cup Italian bread crumbs 2 cups Mozzarella cheese 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese 6 tbsp Butter Salt & Pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sautee onions in 2 TBSP butter over medium heat until translucent.

Layer half of the ingredients as follows in 1 ½ or 2 quart greased baking dish: Zucchini, tomatoes, onion, Parmesan cheese, Mozzarella cheese, salt and pepper then 2 TBSP butter cut in small cubes. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Finish off last layer with breadcrumbs topped with remaining 2 TBSP of cubed butter. Bake for 45 minutes, until bubbly and breadcrumbs are crispy.

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

45

n a m Wo

E

R ICULTU R IN AG

By Lindsey Sebring

Norma Stokes

Since marrying Edgar Stokes in 1961, Norma Stokes has been promoting and giving back to her community 110 percent.

After her marriage to Edgar, she moved to Lorida where she lives today. A mother to four children, she has five grandchildren and is a great grandmother. She was a poll worker for 20 years before going to work for the Supervisor of Elections in 1997 where she works today. Her husband, Edgar, has been a Highlands County Commissioner for 12 years as well as serving as the Florida State Cattlemen’s president in 1996.

Norma has helped with many organizations within Highlands County. She has held just about every position at the Lorida Church of the Brethren including Sunday school teacher for 47 years. She has also been an active Farm Bureau member as well as a member of the Highlands County Cattlewomen organization where she has been promoting the beef industry for over 45 years at such events as the Florida State Fair, the Strawberry Festival and at a number of shopping centers.

With the help of a life long friend, Ann O’Neal, Norma started another great program called “Ag in the Classroom.” This program was designed to show that agriculture could be brought into the classroom to teach children. Norma and Ann would show the different cuts of meat, how to sharpen a knife, how to carve a roast, and what baby chickens are. “When is a cow more than a cow” was a program that volunteers would show children and teachers in classrooms about beef products. The volunteers were always amazed at the questions that even the teachers would ask. Norma was a firm believer that you should always educate yourself about the subject you are teaching or demonstrating before you educated others. Numerous times Norma has gone to Publix, ordered a chuck roast, and never put a drop of seasoning on the meat, to teach the public that if you bought a decent piece of meat that you don’t have to add seasoning. Norma would tell the public that there is no such thing as a tough piece of beef, some are just less tender than others.

Cooking is one subject Norma is known for. She was asked to help with cooking on the Wagon Train in 1996 where the State Cattlemen moved 1,000 head of cracker cattle across the state and then each county nominated a cowboy or cow hunter to drive the cattle. Everett Boney was nominated as Highlands County’s cow hunter and his wife Bonnie asked Norma if she would go along and help with the cooking of the event. They hired a caterer for the event but he had never cooked for cowboys, so Bonnie and Norma had to coach him before the event. Norma said “they had to serve three meals a day to over 400 people that were with the crew.” She said it was hard work but she would always remember that trip. The year 1996 was an important one for both Norma

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and her husband Edgar. He was the Florida State Cattlemen’s President and Norma was chosen as Cattlewoman of the year for Highlands County Cattlewomen. When someone is nominated for the County Cattlewoman, they are eligible to be chosen as “Woman of the Year in Agriculture” for the State of Florida.

Norma was chosen for this award. Friends and family attended a luncheon at the Florida State Fairgrounds to support Norma as she received this great honor. No other woman from Highlands County has ever received this award.

Norma helped start a program of farm and ranch tours.

Tours started with school buses picking up third graders from local schools and would visit a ranch in the morning and a dairy in the afternoon. The tours included lunch and the children were given the opportunity to churn ice cream during that time. The first time they had these tours, they took over 600 kids through the ranches and dairies in one week. Norma said she asked a child during lunch one day, “How did you like the dairy?” He said those were the biggest dogs he has ever seen. She knew right then that she was here to make a difference. These farm and ranch tours were the start of a great agriculture program we have now called “Ag Venture.” Every third grader in Highlands County attends the program and learns what agriculture products are produced in that county. The program includes booths that tell about citrus, beef, forestry, poultry, alligators and more. Every agricultural organization in Highlands County comes together for this event.

Joining together as one, teaching the public and children about agriculture in our community. Norma said, “Highlands County has done a great job teaching our community about the major role agriculture plays a part in this community.” This teaching could not have been possible without an outstanding woman like Norma Stokes helping along the way.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

47

By Johnny Cone When folks think about the woods and waters of our great state, it usually does not take long for their minds to turn to alligators. Often feared and seldom understood, alligators are one of the world’s most primitive animals. With a brain no larger than a walnut, a mouth full of teeth, a hide of armor, and a tail of bone crushing strength, alligators are the classic example of a prime evil predator, all muscle and instinct and not much else. Eating fish, turtles, snakes, deer, wild hogs, as well as domestic livestock, pets and just about anything else they can catch, alligators are the perfect eating machine.

Alligators inhabit every county in Florida and can be found in almost any body of water. They are most common in freshwaters but are also found in brackish and sometimes even saltwater. At one time, alligator numbers were on the decline. That decline caused the State of Florida to prohibit alligator hunting beginning in 1961 and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to classify them as an endangered species in 1967. But the alligator population rebounded well and in 1988 Florida implemented a statewide harvest program. Hunters apply for alligator permits through a random drawing system.

Captain Mike Reark is a man that knows a thing or two about hunting alligators. Mike has participated in the Florida hunt every year since the state began the drawing and annual hunts in 1988.

A versatile hunter, Mike hunts for personal pleasure as well as a professional guide. Taking clients on what, for some, is a once in a lifetime adventure against one of nature’s greatest predators.

Mike’s home waters, or preferred hunting areas, consist of the entire Kissimmee River ecosystem, including Lake Kissimmee, Kissimmee River, and Lake Okeechobee. Well equipped for pursuing gators, he even has two different boats he hunts out of, a flats boat for open water hunts and an airboat for hunting swampy and marsh areas.

The common method of hunting gators is using a snatch hook on a heavy fishing rod. The way this works is that once the alligator is hooked, the snatch hook is cast over the gator and then retrieved snagging the gator. Then it is much like fighting a large fish. Often times multiple rods are used to prevent losing the gator and get it to the boat quicker. At boat side, harpoons are used to help secure and control the gator. A bang stick to the back of the alligator’s head dispatches the beast. Mike also cuts the spine right behind the head for safety reasons. An alligator that comes “back to life” in the boat is a very dangerous situation. Mike, as well as most other hunters, tapes the alligators powerful jaws shut with electrical tape for additional safety. Then the alligator is brought into the boat.

Getting the gator in the boat is not always an easy task, as larger specimens can weigh 800 pounds or even more.

But the method of spotting gators and casting a snatch

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hook over them does not work very well on larger gators these days.

Years of hunting have educated the big boys. They may be primitive but they are definitely not dumb. The big boys know that boats at night spell trouble. So they stay away or go under. For trophy gators, Mike uses a different method. He baits the alligator. For this he uses a whole dead chicken, duck or other available bait on a line with a float. The state does not allow using hooks in baited lines for alligators, so Mike uses a wooden peg. The idea is that once the alligator swallows the bait, the peg lodged in the alligator’s stomach prevents it from coming off the line. The state also requires that the line be tended and attached to the boat at all the time. So hunting the large gators has become a waiting game. Mike goes to an area where he knows a big gator frequents, puts out his bait and waits. If all goes well, the gator comes along, eats the bait, and is fought to the boat on the hand line. But, as Mike says, the big ones are smart, so it does not always work. Sometimes you can sit all night without luring a gator to take the bait.

Alligator hunting can be an exciting nighttime adventure. There is the bonus of recouping some of your hunting expenses through to sale of the hide and meat or you can keep the meat and hide for some great eating and a trophy that lasts a lifetime. The thing to remember is that alligator hunting is not for the faint of heart.

Being out in the swamps, lakes, and rivers, battling large predators is not the place for beginners to be alone. If you are a beginner, a great way to learn the ropes is to hire a guide. Captain Mike Reark is available for chartered alligator trips. He has the experience and equipment to enjoy a hunt safely. Captain Mike can be reached through his website www.saltycrackercharters.com or by phone at 863-443-1000. For information on regulations, season dates, and how to apply to draw alligator tags, go to www.myfwc.com and click on alligators in the hunting section.

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49

When I was a kid the adults used to tell me how hard things were when they were growing up, walking miles to and from school each day, studying at night from a kerosene lamp, and not having indoor plumbing. If you’re over 50 you have heard the story.

I remember as a youngster we did have indoor plumbing, a refrigerator with a block of ice delivered twice a week by the ice man from the Artic Ice plant in Plant City. No TV, but a Motorola radio where the family would gather at night and listen to such shows as Abbot & Costello, Fibber McGee & Molly, and on Saturday night the big show was “Your Hit Parade.” A few years later the popular show, like American Idol is today, was the Ed Sullivan Show. To the best of my memory Elvis was blasted for wiggling too much when he sang on Ed’s show.

In my early years there was no such thing as the Internet, ’cause Al Gore had not yet invented it. We actually had to go to the library to look something up using their card catalog system. There was no e-mail! We had to sit down and actually write somebody a letter with a pen. Then you had to walk down to the corner and put it in the mailbox, or put in your mailbox and raise the flag to remind the postman to pick it up.

Boy, the phone system was a dilly. Most people were on a party line, and there was always someone that was long winded and you would have to keep picking up the receiver in hopes it would help to remind them to cut their conversation short, or, if you like you could join with a three way conversation. No call waiting, no texting, no caller ID, you would just pick up the phone and take your chance.

We didn’t have helmets for bicycles. If you fell you would get up and go home and mom would put a band-aid on you. If you got sick a dose of Caster Oil was always the remedy. We seemed

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to survive without car seats, seat belts and cell phones.

Kids now days have it too easy. However, they may be a bit smarter. I can call my 12-year-old grandson, Ryan, over to show me how to use all the gadgets on the TV remote. He’s a whiz with the iPod, too.

I remember when Ryan was younger, he picked up our family bible and was amused as he fingered through the pages. He noticed something fell out of the Bible.

It was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages. He hollered at Nana and said, “Look what I found.” “What have you got, Ryan?” she asked.” “I think it’s Adam’s underwear!” I also remember our youngest daughter’s first day of school. I asked Karen how it went and she replied, “I think I am wasting my time, I can’t read, I can’t write and they won’t let me talk!”

My mother had old time sayings, some of which are still around today. When the dark clouds would form she would say “It’s clabber’n up for rain.” Other’s include, “This thang is plum whompie jawed.” “I’m between the devil and the deep blue sea.” “He’s as jumpy as a longtail cat in a room full of rocking chairs.” “He walks like he has ants in his pants.” “Lord willing and the creek don’t rise.” And her favorite of them all, especially when I would get out-of-line, was, “Better stop that before I jerk a knot in your rear.”

Dad loved to eat and mom would always serve everything piping hot from the stove. Had she worked at McDonald’s as a coffee maker she would have been sued for every pot she made. Hot, extremely hot, and dad loved it that way. Ever heard of “saucered and blowed?”

That was dad’s technique of pouring hot coffee in a saucer, blowing on it to cool it down, then sipping it out of the saucer. He would occasionally tell some one off by saying, “The buzzards layed you and the sun hatched you.”

In many ways I am a lot like my father. He did not like to go shopping, so I guess I get it honest. When I go I know what I want, buy it, and leave! I met a retired couple at the Sawmill Place Restaurant in Blairsville, Georgia this past summer. His wife declared she would never take him shopping with her again. He could sit in the car and wait from now on. I asked her why, and she said, “Well Herbert really did not like go with me to me to the new Wal-Mart that opened just north west of town. First thing he did was to take a bag of M&M’s and ask to put them on layaway. Then he went to the auto department and practiced his ‘Madonna Look’ by using different sizes of funnels.

And last but not least he set all the alarm clocks to go off at 5-minute intervals.

Let me close with the story of three men that married women from different states. The first man married a woman from Michigan.

He told her that she was to do the dishes and house cleaning. It took a couple of days, but on the third day, he came home to see a clean house and dishes washed and put away. The second man married a woman from Missouri. He gave his wife orders that she was to do all the cleaning, dishes and the cooking. The first day he didn’t see any results, but the next day he saw it was better. By the third day he saw his house was clean, the dishes were done and there was a huge dinner on the table. The third man married a girl from Alabama. He ordered her to keep the house clean, dishes washed, lawn mowed, laundry washed, and hot meals on the table for every meal. He said the first day he didn’t see anything, the second day he didn’t see anything, but by the third day some of the swelling had gone down and he could see a little out of his left eye, and his arm had healed enough that he could fix himself a sandwich and load the dishwasher.

Just remember, do not take life to seriously, no one gets out alive.

Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. and 4-H Golf Classic Tee Off to benefit 4-H youth activities in your community at the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. / Florida 4-H Annual Golf Classic. This event supports 4-H youth and volunteers throughout Florida by providing hands - on learning opportunities to children ages 8-18 in after school programs, club activities, camps and offers curriculum resources to educators.

Date: Monday, October 11, 2010 at 1:00pm Shotgun Start Location: Falcon’s Fire 3200 Seralago Boulevard • Kissimmee, FL 34746 Schedule: 12:00 pm - Range Opens & Registration Begins 1:00 pm- Shotgun Starts 6:00 pm- Awards & Recognition Reception For More Information Contact: Kristin Bird • Florida 4-H Foundation, Inc. (352) 846-0996 - kbird@ufl.edu Shaumond Scott • State 4-H Public Relations & Communications Coordinator 3103 McCarty Hall B - P.O. Box 110225 Gainesville, FL 32611-0225 Phone: (352) 846-0996 x237 • Fax: (352) 846-0999 E-mail: scottsa@ufl.edu • www.florida4h.org

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OCTOBER 2010

51

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

Palmetto Creek Farms The Cook-Off of the High End Hog

By Kellie Duke They came, they cooked, they conquered. They came for the cook-off of the high-end hog, from places, like Tampa, Orlando, and Palm Beach, and they were the best cooks. Cooking up some of the tastiest pork on the planet, were top chefs from the JW Marriott, Hyatt Regency, and Royal Pacific Resort at Universal, Orlando, chefs from Side Bern’s and Hyatt Regency in Tampa, and a Master Chef from Cafe Boulud in Palm Beach. They conquered in a way that was only known to them, using their best ingredients and cooking methods, and in the end it was one team that took it all.

Each team came with their own cooking equipment and all the ingredients. Palmetto Creek Farms provided each team with a pork loin and a side of ribs to cook for two top of the line judges, Larry Eubanks, Professor and Coordinator for the Meat Labs at the University of Florida and Frankie Hall, Director of Ag Policy for Florida Farm Bureau, who came from Gainesville for the big event. What was the reason for this event at Palmetto Creek Farms? Jim Wood said, “The reason for this event was for Palmetto Creek Farms to give something back to the Chefs and establishments that have supported Palmetto Creek while their business was developing and to give the Chef’s the opportunity to show off their culinary skills.” Jim also mentioned that it was also a great way for the Chefs to see where their pork comes from.

Getting ready to judge for the big contest on this day, Frankie Hall, stopped to share some thoughts about Jim and Palmetto Creek Farms.

“No one is doing what Jim is doing here in Florida. He is growing the market around a particular breed, promoting “All Natural” outdoor production. Jim was one of several farmers in Florida and South Georgia who benefited from a USDA grant that was used to study market trends and help farmers develop a product and a market. He has taken it to the next level unlike anyone else in Florida. He has built his business around an older breed, the Hereford hog. He has listened to his customers, who are your high-end restaurants, and has put a business marketing plan in place.”

It has worked! Jim produces an “All Natural” pork product. “To be considered all natural you must follow certain protocol, follow animal welfare guidelines, castrate before 10 days old, wean after 6 weeks, and also feed them an all natural diet where no hormones or no antibiotics are used,” Frankie said. Larry Eubanks, from the University of Florida Meats Lab, remarked, “We helped Jim develop his own kill facility, which allows him to produce a product which is from birth to the box.

We helped him get his harvest facility up and running, trained him in food safety, and helped him comply with USDA regulations. However, all the credit for marketing Jim’s product goes to Jim. It was all his idea.

He had a great marketing idea and he has taken it to the highest level.

His business can only grow.”

Outside, preparing their best pork dishes, the competition was heating up. Phillip Bollhoefer, from the Hyatt Regency in Orlando, was creating pork chops with a sweet onion gala apple jam, while Silvio Rosalen, the Dining Room Chef from the Royal Pacific Resort Orlando, was cooking his pork dish up “Roman style.” Many other teams were there to challenge each other for the Top Prize. As I made my way around talking to the chefs from the various restaurants, there was one thing they could all agree on, and that was that Jim Wood had the best

pork around and it was a real joy to be able to use his top quality meat in their kitchens.

They also liked the idea of knowing where their p ro d u c t came from.

Participating in this Iron Chef Cook-Off gave them a chance to come out and see where their pork products are raised. Getting around to all of the teams and seeing how they prepare their dishes was a great culinary experience for all who attended. The aromas coming from each team grill were a barbeque lover’s delight! I kept thinking to myself, “The Food Channel should be at this event, this is really cool!”

Once the cooking was all completed, the two judges were brought samples from each team with a number on them. Restaurant chefs and special guests waited anxiously to see who the winner would be, as it was evident that the competition was going to be tough. Soon a consensus was reached and the winner was announced. The winner was the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay Team 2. As a matter of fact, they took top prize for best loin and best ribs as well. After applauding the winners, it was time to let the real celebration begin… for all to dig in and fill up on the best tasting pigs around.

Speaking on behalf of Palmetto Creek Farms, owner Jim Wood got up to speak. First of all he thanked all of the chefs for participating and supporting his All Natural Pork Product. Next, he mentioned that God had given him this vision, but it would not have been possible without Florida Farm Bureau and IFAS. He also mentioned special people that have helped him along the way, Frankie Hall, Professor Larry Eubanks, Dr. Joel Brendemuhl Continued on page 54

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53

and Dr. Chad Carr.

As we all finished up, I couldn’t help but look back and remember how Palmetto Creek Farms started. It didn’t begin this way for Jim and Debbie Wood. As a matter of fact, it began as a way for children to come out and pick out their hogs for the local and state fairs. Jim mentioned that the farm had actually started out as a 4H project in 2001. “Back then we raised a variety of swine. We started with Yorkshires, Hampshires, Durocs, and Blue Butt crosses. We then expanded and added other breeds for showing. In 2004, our family was invited up to the University of Florida for a dinner with Florida and South Georgia Pork Producers. During the dinner and meeting the idea of “Meat Quality Pork” was introduced to me. They served us two kinds of pork. We dined on Sam’s Club Pork and the University of Florida’s Swine Unit pork. There was a big difference for me, and this is when I decided that our farm was going to change directions. Instead of farming swine for show, we would begin to farm swine for meat quality. After many hours of research and sampling, we decided that the Hereford Breed of swine would be the one we would change over to for meat quality. This part took place in 2004. As our farm was changing, we built our barn in three phases with the help of many good friends. Our facility now is just right for the product we produce. In 2007, a wine salesman introduced us to several chefs from the Orlando area, after an article was printed about us in the Florida Trend Magazine. Now we specialize in serving many of the finer restaurants in Tampa Bay, Orlando, and throughout Florida,” Jim said.

You have to admire Jim Wood for taking a dream of his and working hard to turn it into a reality. What once was a nice little place to pick out a fair hog has turned into a working farm to produce a quality All Natural Pork Product from birth to the box. Jim and Debbie Wood will tell you that God has blessed them with their farm. They want to make sure that he receives the Glory for helping them to grow like they have and to be able to produce a quality product that people enjoy. Jim wanted to share one last thought about his high end hogs. Jim said, “I tell all my hogs that I’m going to take them out to do some fine dining if they continue to be good little pigs and eat well!”

Visiting Palmetto Creek Farms on this special day was a real treat for me. The food, fellowship, and fun was over the top! I look forward to next year’s “Iron Chef Cook-Off of the High End Hog!”

Continued from page 33

• • • • • • • • • • •

•

• • • • • • • • •

Men can read smaller print than women, but women can hear better.

The cost of raising a medium-size dog to the age of eleven is about $6,400.

The youngest Pope was 11.

The first novel ever written on a typewriter was Tom Sawyer.

A shrimps’ heart is in its head.

Starfish don’t have brains.

A group of ravens is called a murder.

A group of owls is called a parliament.

A group of kangaroos is called a mob.

A group of frogs is called an army.

Hershey’s Kisses are called that because the machine that makes them looks like it’s kissing the conveyor belt.

The physically smallest post office in the United States is in Ochopee, Florida in the heart of the Everglades.

The face of a penny can hold about thirty drops of water.

The Phillips-head screwdriver was invented in Oregon.

Velcro was invented by a Swiss man who was inspired by the way burrs attached to clothing.

There are more beetles than any other kind of creature in the world.

Ballroom dancing is a major at Brigham Young University.

Turnips turn green when sunburned.

The state of Maryland has no natural lakes.

Sarsaparilla is the root that flavors root beer.

Colgate toothpaste makes an excellent salve for burns.

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In tests conducted at Louisiana Tech University, during the coldest winter in recent memory, cattle grazed on Prine gained .4 lbs per day more than cattle grazed on Marshall.

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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Young Farme

COLLEGE & CAREER

rs & Ranche

rs

Flint Johns

By Rhonda Glisson Born in Broward County, Flint Johns was destined for a life involving agriculture. The grandson of a bean farmer, Flint was surrounded by farming from the beginning. His family moved to Ocala when he was a very young child and his parents were in the real estate and Quarter Horse business. During his high school years, Flint was very involved in Florida High School Rodeos, competing in several events. He still competes in Rodeo in calf roping events. After high school graduation, Flint attending University of Florida, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Food and Resource Economics in 2004.

He followed up with a Masters of Agribusiness in from University of Florida in 2006. After earning his Masters degree, Flint headed to the south part of the state to be with his wife Stephanie. An important factor in the decision to make this move was Flint’s desire to ensure his wife lived close to her family in Belle Glade. It was after this move that Flint’s daughter, Hannah Kate, was born in Sebring.

Flint is employed by Lykes Brothers, Inc. – Ranch Division, working at the Lykes Ranch in Glades and Highlands Counties.

The 100 year old company was established in 1907. The ranch consists of 337,000 acres, is the fourth largest cattle ranch in the United States, and one of the largest contiguous tracts of land in the State of Florida. The property is home to an integrated cow-calf operation consisting of 15,000 brood cows, plus calves and breeder bulls.

The property also includes a sugar cane, forestry, landscape, and land leasing operations. In addition to these operations, Lykes Ranch has made strategic moves into renewable energy crops, water storage, and environmentally friendly landscape products. This broadens the company’s scope of business and helps it adapt to a rapidly changing global economy.

Flint holds the position of BMP/Special Projects Coordinator at the Ranch. His day to day responsibilities include assisting in the coordination and management of all ranch operations. Flint also performs the tasks of budgeting, production system, economic, and market analysis as well as coordinating and managing research and special projects both within the company as well as with outside institutions such as IFAS. Additionally Flint coordinates the Best Management Practices for Water Quality for the entire ranch division and helps in the coordination and management of all energy crop production and research including Energycane and eucalyptus. Dedicated to his career and employer, Flint is very passionate about the work Lykes Brothers is doing to improve the environment.

Though Flint’s career keeps him extremely busy, he finds time to contribute and give back to the agriculture community. Marty Wohl, Highlands County Farm Bureau President, who attended University of Florida with Flint, had this to say about Flint’s dedication to addressing the issues facing agriculture. “Flint has become an asset to Florida agriculture while representing Lykes Bros. at all of the governmental regulatory meetings that threaten our industry daily.” “ I am glad to have Flint on our side.” A member of the Florida Cattleman’s Association, Flint serves as the Chairman for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association Committee for Environmental and Private Lands Management. This committee oversees development and implementation of policies or policies which affect private lands and water; environmental matters and the use of products that may affect the environment.

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The committee also works with various regulatory agencies, associations, organizations, and individuals to protect the State’s environment and prevent unfair and unnecessary burdens from being placed upon the industry and individual property rights. This committee has the huge task of keeping members of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association informed of private lands property rights and environmental issues.

It is safe to say, Flint Johns could be described as a man of many hats. A family man, businessman, rancher, rodeo cowboy, and advocate for the cattlemen of Florida. A young man with drive and determination to accomplish anything he puts his mind to. Balancing his career, his passion for agriculture and landowner rights with the most important part of his life, Stephanie and Hannah Kate, Flint finds time for it all.

First Lady of Hunting... featured at In The Field Magazine is pleased to announce that Brenda Valentine will become a regular contributor to our publication.

Known as the First Lady of Hunting, Ms. Valentine has been a household name among hunters and those in the outdoor and conservation communities for over two decades. Although Brenda has hunted extensively for almost every species in North America and Africa she is noted for her down-to-earth attitude and warm southern charm.

Commando Hunting Products SIGNS FIRST LADY OF HUNTING FOR signature series game calls Commando Hunting Products has signed The First Lady of Hunting®, Brenda Valentine, in producing a new series of turkey calls.

The game calls promise to be worthy of Brenda’s reputation as national spokesperson for the National Wild Turkey Federation and the high standards she sets not only for her own skills as a hunter but the equipment she uses as well.

“I’ve looked hard and waited a long time before putting my name on any turkey call product,” said Valentine. “The designers and engineers at Commando Hunting Products have now produced a line of friction calls to my specifications that I wholeheartedly recommend for all seasoned or novice turkey hunters. I’m proud to introduce the Brenda Valentine “Sweet Talk” by Commando.”

Brenda Valentine has been a household name amongst hunters and those in the outdoor and conservation communities for over 2 decades. Although Brenda has hunted extensively for almost every specie in North America and Africa she is noted for her down-to-earth attitude and warm southern charm.

Valentine typically travels over 200 days each year dividing her time between speaking engagements and filming for TV. She is a regular radio guest on a many syndicated stations. A hunter since her childhood and recognized as the first woman to succeed in the male-dominated hunting industry, Brenda became the first woman to be inducted into the Legends of the Outdoors National Hall of Fame. Valentine is the host of “Turkey Call” on The Pursuit Channel and co-host to Bass Pro Shops’ “Real Hunting” show on the Verses Network, as well as a frequent guest on many other outdoor and conservation oriented programs produced by Mossy Oak and Bass Pro Shops.

Valentine works tirelessly to promote hunting and the outdoor lifestyle across the country. In fact, Bass Pro Shops describes Brenda as THE person who, single-handedly, is responsible for inspiring and introducing more women to hunting than any person alive.

Commando Hunting Products is a division of AC Metal Products, LLC, founded in 2005 by Alex Carr. The venture conjoins Carr’s true passion for hunting with his manufacturing technology degree in the development and manufacture of innovative new products in the age-old industry. Commando Vice President Matt Burtin joined the firm with nearly two decades of experience negotiating contracts with Fortune 500 companies. His love of hunting as well as his marketing and MBA degrees rounded out the company. Commando Hunting Products debuted at the NWTF Convention in Nashville in 2006 and has continued, each year, to expand its customer base and product lines.

Commando is a high energy, innovative company that works hard to promote the outdoors industry. Women and children in the outdoors are two areas that Carr and Burtin believe are essential to expanding the industry and the company supports many great organizations and public figures to reach these markets.

A Privilege

By Brenda Valentine

Hunting on someone else’s land is a privilege and should be regarded as such. It only takes a minute to ask permission to hunt and even less to close gates behind you.

Once access to hunt private land is gained, stay safely away from buildings and livestock, pick up yours and anybody else’s spent shells and litter, park only in designated areas, stay out of unharvested fields, offer to help the landowner with chorse, seek permission in advance of the next season if possible and always at a reasonable time of day, and share your bag with the landowner and his family.

Remember to always ask permission before you hunt on private property and, once you get it, treat the land as if it were your own.

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

57

DeSoto Machine Shop Triangle Spreader Manufacturing Co. www.desotomachine.com

MOWER

(800) 494-0335 (863) 494-0703

2692 N.E. Nat Ave. Arcadia, FL 34266

AgCalendar What’s going on InTheField?

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

9/30/10 Desoto/Charlotte Farm Bureau Banquet 10/1/10 - Angus And Brangus Bull Sale, Arcadia 10/1/10 - Mo Brangus Bull Sale, Arcadia 10/1/10 - Crooked Lake Ranch Bull Sale, Frostproof 10/1/10 - Florida State Fair Youth Swine Deadline 10/1-2/2010 State Ranch Rodeo Finals & Heritage Finals, Kissimmee 10/2/10 Charlotte County Prospect Show 10/6-10/10 Greater Venice Dog Show 10/12/10 IFAS Citrus Seminar 10/13-15/10 - Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, Daytona Beach 10/15-16/10 - PUrina Mills Honor Show Chow Jackpot, Kissimmee 10/18/10 - Hardee County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, Hardee County Agri-Civic Center 10/19/10 - Water Choices Forum, Orlando 10/21/10 - Florida Blueberry Growers Fall Meeting & Trade Show, Sumter County Fairgrounds • 10/23/10 - Highlands County Farm Bureau Annual Dinner • 10/26-28/ - Highlands County Ag Venture, Highlands County Fairgrounds • 10/26/10 - Florida Beef Council Meeting, Kissimmee

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Local BBQ Champ Invited to Compete in Worldwide Championship

Everglades Seasoning BBQ Team was announced as the Florida participant at the Jack Daniel’s 22nd Annual World Championship Invitational Barbecue October 22-23 in Lynchburg, TN. Jimmy Brod, co-owner of JB Aircraft of Sebring, is the “pitmaster” for the barbecue team. Brod, together with the Everglades Seasoning BBQ Team, gained entry into this competition by winning The Pig Festival in Lakeland, Fla. this past January.

“The Jack‚” considered the most prestigious barbecue competition in the world‚ will bring together the best of the best to compete for the top prize - to be named Jack Daniels’ Grand Champion. Winners will not only be awarded ultimate bragging rights‚ but awarded with more than $30‚000 in cash and prizes.

More than 25,000 barbecue fans are expected to arrive on Friday, October 22, and Saturday, October 23, to watch as some 80 championship barbecue teams from across the United States and from around the world will compete for the Grand Champion title.

Qualifying teams will be competing in eight categories: Pork Ribs, Pork

Shoulder/ Butts, Beef Brisket, Chicken, Dessert, Cook’s Choice and Jack Daniel’s Sauce. The 2009 Jack Daniel’s world grand champion and the 2010 champion from Memphis in May, American Royal Open and Houston World’s Championship Bar-BQue, received automatic invitations.

Everglades Seasoning BBQ Team was formed in late 2009 when a friendship formed between the owners at Everglades Foods Inc. and Jimmy Brod, both tenants of the Sebring Airport. Brod uses Everglades Seasoning and the Cactus Dust BBQ Rub in his competition recipes.

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OCTOBER 2010

59

Cobb Ranch Calf g n i p

ro

The Tri State Calf Ropers Association put on a calf roping and breakaway roping clinic in Avon Park at Cobb Ranch on Saturday, September 11. The TSCRA is a non-profit organization that promotes the sport of calf roping and sanctions roping competitions throughout the southeast.

The nine instructors were all TSCRA members. Twenty students showed up excited to learn from some of the best ropers in southeast. All the students started out on foot, roping and tying wooden calf dummies. Then they finished up roping and tying live cattle from horseback. “We had a great group of students that ranged from little kids to adults. They all learned a lot and showed great improvement in their roping skills by the end of the day,� said Keith Cobb, President of TSCRA. The successful clinic was held as a fundraiser for the Tri State Calf Ropers Association. Another clinic is planned for early 2011.

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R ? en E W wh

P O h a ve i t T G O e yo u it h a

sur ed it w RATOR E ne yo u O M E G E N s N G’ LE H C. WHO fr om LO NiN G, iN iO NdiT O C AiR

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Spotlight on Sebring Senior FFA Chapter

By Megan Stein and Lauren Welborn With school only in session for one short month, the Sebring Senior FFA chapter is already planning on a full schedule for the 2010-2011 year. The first activity on their busy schedule is their annual back to school barbecue.

The barbecue features their spin on “Ag Olympics� with contests such as post-hole digging, sack races, and soda chugging.

After the fun is completed, they will start to practice their many career development events. Sebring Senior is planning on competing in the following: parliamentary procedure, creed speaking, prepared public speaking, extemporaneous speaking, tractor driving, citrus judging, meats evaluation, horse judging, veterinary assisting, ornamental horticulture demonstrations, and livestock judging.

The first opportunity they have to practice some competitions is at the Peace Ridge Federation competition planned for October 2. They are home to the Federation chair person for 2010, Tia Goss. After that, they are sending their officer team to the COLT conference on October 7. This is immediately following another conference, the Chapter Presidents Conference, which will be held in Daytona. Sebring Senior is also sending three delegates to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis Indiana, along with alumni member Amy Wack and her nationally-qualified swine proficiency application.

Sebring Senior is also planning to participate in various community service projects, such as singing Christmas carols at the Sunny Hills nursing home and assisting in the presentation of Ag Venture for elementary school students. There are also many other events such as these that the chapter will be attending, so keep your eyes peeled for the Sebring Senior squad!

Certified Public Accountants

Wicks, Brown, Williams & Co. Sebring

C. Mark Cox, CPA, Partner John W. Davis, CPA, Partner Tanya E. Cannady, CPA

Lake Placid

W. Bruce Stratton, CPA, Partner

Okeechobee

Cheryl M. Williams, CPA, Partner Corey A. DeHays, CPA

140 South Commerce Avenue Sebring, Florida 33870

(863) 382-1157 wbwtaxmgr@wbwcpa.com

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C L A S S I F I E D S HUSQVARNA IZ 5223-Demo zero turn mower. 52” cut, 23 hp Kohler engine, 5 yr. warranty. $5,999 (MSRP $9,699) Call C&J Equip., Lake Wales, 863-638-0671 1984 KUBOTA B6200-2 wd, w/4 ft. Finish Mower $3,750.00. 863-698-2967 1983 KUBOBTA B6100HSE-2wd tractor • $3,500 Call 863-967-0651 1997 ANDERSON GOOSENECK TRAILER- 26ft. with an addition 4 ft. hinged beavertail. Duel axle, duel wheels, good tires, hinged ramps. $5,000 AS IS. C&J Equipment, Lake Wales. • 863-638-0671 3600 FORD DIESEL TRACTOR-Only 80 hours, ready to work! Call Jim 863-608-0630 NEW HOLLAND REPOS-TN60A 2WD 2007 models w/front brooms and box blades. Never used, sold new $31,270.Sell $27,000, balance of warranty. 813-623-3673 WANTED-PARTS OR TRACTOR-For Massey Ferguson 235 diesel. Call Clifford 863-984-2858 or cell 963-660-0731 THE PRICE IS RIGHT (186770) Enjoy this mountain cabin. Cheerful 2 BR/2 BA two story bright & Open layout. $189,500. Located in Blairsville GA. Call Jane Baer with Jane Baer Realty.

800-820-7829 2010 KAWSAKI Mule Trans 4010. $9499 or $199 per mo. Sky Powersports/Lake Wales 863-676-2245 2000 LULL 644B-42’-Reach forklift 3,952 hours. $29,469 Call 863-698-4114

2010 KAWSAKI Mule Trans 4010. $9499 or $199 per mo. Sky Powersports/Lake Wales 863-676-2245 ANGUS FREEZER BEEF-$2.75/lb. cut and wrapped. Whole, Half or Quarter. Cash, Mastercard or Visa 863-206-2828 2004 MASSEY FERGUSON 461-2-55 pto hp, 2 wheel

Call “The Land Lady” Acreage, lakefront ranches, “mini” farms.

Mary Adsit, Realtor 863-285-7118 www.maryadsit.com 2007 HARLEY DAVIDSON•-Dyna Glide Streetbob, cobalt blue, only 368 miles, EXCELLENT condition.Extras added!!! Ready to ride. $12,000 Serious Inquiries Only! (813)659-3402

drive, shuttle shift, hydrolic remotes. $10,500.

Call 813-752-8722

SURPLUS WINDOWS-Starting at $55.00 Call Ted 813-752-3378

1952 JOHN DEERE TRACTOR-M MODEL Runs Good! $1,985 O.B.O. Jim 863-858-2226 POLLINATION SERVICES Strong bees when you want them.We also have honey and skin care prod- WANTED UTILITY/POWER POLES ucts made with honey and ingredients from the Call Robert 863-735-0808 or 863-445-0358 (cell) hive. Cantu Apiaries, 863-735-1679 ALL -PRO FLATBED TRAILER 7X20 with beavertail and ramps. Tandem 7,000 pd axels $2,500 Call Hank 863-559-8718 PORTABLE BULK FEEDERS Excellent Condition!!! Call 863-528-4356 KIOTI DK45S TRACTOR With front end loader. 45hp cab, AC, Synchro Shuttle, 4x4, R4 tires. Asking $19,000 863-443-1862 Ask for Darren.

H Now Hiring H Account Executive and Writers.

Please email us at:

info@inthefieldmagazine.com We look forward to hearing from you!

NEW Steele Mobile Home Tubs. $125.00 54” X 30” Call us today. 813-752-3378 ask for Ted.

GOOSENECK BRAND-24X6, Canvas Top, 3 Compartments. Call 863-528-4356 or 863-692-1082

HOME FOR SALE 3/2 1694 sq ft cb home, ac with above ground 30k gal plus tropical fish farm, 2 websites, turnkey business, asking $224,9k. (Buy House alone $179.9k) Call 813-493-0008

1984 KUBOTA B6200-2 wd, w/4 ft. Finish Mower $3,000 • 863-698-2967

John Kilgore Real Estate Inc.

HOMOSASSA LOT-One acre lot, high & dry, approx. 100 yds. From the Mason Creek River. Fishing & Boating Heaven! 813-503-9033

LOOKING FOR REALESTATE We can help today! Call today and ask for C.D. “Chip” Boring GRI, CRS, Broker/Owne

Look in November & December Editons for our “Christmas Shopping in the Heartland”

863-385-0077 HUSQVARNA LZ 6127-Zero turn mower. 61” cut, 27 hp Kohler engine, 5 yr. warranty $7,499 (MSRP $9,699) C&J Equip. Lake Wales, 863-638-0671 ANTIQUE CLAW FOOT TUB-Only $350.00 • Ask for Ted 813-752-3378

**Lake Placid Christian School Students: Have Your Parent(s) Sign Here:_________________ and please return to Mr. G.

2010 KAWASKI Mule 610 4x4. $6499 or $125 per mo.

Sky Powersports/Lake Wales 863-676-2245

2010 KAWASKI Mule 600 Red. $5499 or $125 per mo.

Sky Powersports/Lake Wales 863-676-2245

2010 KAWASKI Teryx 750 4x4 $8499 or $150 per mo.

Sky Powersports/Lake Wales 863-676-2245

2010 KAWASKI Brute Force 750 ATV. $5999 or $125 per mo.

Sky Powersports/Lake Wales 863-676-2245

TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS CALL 813-759-6909 info@inthefieldmagazine.com

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OCTOBER 2010

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Will Bennett

Personal Ag Labor Consultant

863.452.0101

We deliver. Crop by crop success.

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