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Contents
VOL.77••ISSUE ISSUE 710 VOL.
Feature Story
Morgan Carlton Rob Krieger & Page Wes Fussell 34 Leaving Their Mark
Page 34
Photo by Melissa Nichols
Cover Photo by Melissa Nichols
Master Gardener
Page 10
Kathleen FFA & Crystal Lake Middle FFA Top Honors in Aquaculture
Page 13
Tampa Bay’s Fishing Report
Page 14
Bankers South
Page 18
Rocking Chair Chatter
Page 22
Polk County Sheriff’s office
Page 26
Business Up Front - J&J Tack Shack
Page 28
Market Watch: Nice 2 Be Natural Pet Treats
Page 30
Fred ‘Mr. Fred’ Williams Retires From Purina
Page 31
Polk on Pennies
Page 32
Florida - Rose Apple
Page 38
POLK COU NTY
CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS0 3 Bartow, FL 33831 -9005 OFFICERS & B OARD OF DIRECTORS President - Charles Clark (863) 528-8537 cclark@expoco.com Vice President - Dave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 cattlemanslivetock@earthlink.net Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch (863) 425-1121 jbunch@agriumretail.com Al Bellotto - (863) 581-5515 Ray Clark - (863) 683-8196 rclark@tampabay.rr.com L.B. Flanders, DVM - (863) 644-5974 Dewey Fussell - (863) 984-3782 Mike Fussell - (863) 698-8314 fussell.flafarm@verizon.net David McCullers - (863) 528-1195 Moby Persing - (863) 528-4379 Ned Waters - (863) 698-1597 watersn@doacs.state.fl.us J.B. Wynn - (863) 581-3255 jbwynn29@gmail.com Alternate - Mike Facente - (863) 697-9419 Standing Committee Chairs: Membership - J.B. Wynn Events - Kevin Fussell (863) 412-5876 Rodeo - Fred Waters (863) 559-7808 watersf@doacs.state.fl.us Cattlewomen - President Marjorie Wood (863) 660-4137 onnie397@aol.com Extension - Bridget Carlisle (863) 519-8677 bccarlis@ufl.edu Sheriff’s Dept. - Sgt. Howard Martin
Kathleen FFA TOP National Honors
Page 42
It’s A Peach
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While we are blessed with “cookout” type weather almost every day, with June 21 bringing the first official day of summer, I felt some tips for food safety were in order. Nothing ruins a family gathering like spoiled food that causes illness. And with our temps, food borne bacteria replicates faster than you can blink. These food related illnesses can be easily avoided by following a few tips found on the Florida Department of Agriculture’s web site. • Meat, poultry, fish, and eggs should never be eaten raw. These foods should be maintained in a refrigerator at a temperature below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and cooked thoroughly before eating. A cooking temperature of 160 degrees is advised. When cooking, use a meat thermometer or follow these tips: • Poultry: Cook it until the meat is white, and don’t eat it if you see blood or pink meat. • Hamburger: Cook it until there are no traces of pink in the center, or blood in the juices. • Steaks: Can be safely cooked medium; that’s because harmful bacteria in beef are found on the surface of the steak, not in the interior like in ground meats. • Fish: Cook until it flakes easily and is no longer translucent in the center. • Eggs: Cook eggs and egg dishes thoroughly. Don’t even sample anything containing raw eggs such as uncooked dough and cake batter. • Keep foods cold, below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, or hot, above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Foods left out between those temperatures for more than two hours should be discarded. • Keep cooked foods separate from raw foods. Cross-contamination of foods could occur if bacteria-harboring raw food comes in contact with cooked foods. Wash hands, utensils, cutting boards and countertops after preparing or handling raw meats. • Avoid interrupted cooking. If you are partially cooking foods indoors to finish cooking on the grill, make sure the food goes directly from the oven to the hot grill. Don’t let the food stand partially cooked for any period of time. And of course, remember to buy food that is Fresh From Florida for your cookout and every day.
The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. _ Numbers 6:25
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Melissa Nichols
Karen Berry Al Berry Stephanie Humphrey Lacey Waters Melissa Nichols
Ace Air Conditioning & Electric.................39 Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers..............................16 Bankers South Group....................24 Brenmar...........................................33 Broke & poor..................................21 Carlton & Carlton, PA....................44 Cattlemens Livestock Auction.....25 Cecil Breeding Farm......................12 Darn Grills & Ranch Supply........39 Dundee Feed & Hardware...........33 Ellison RBM Inc...............................39 Everglades Farm Equipment..........2 Farm Credit.....................................27 Fields Equiptment Co. Inc............23 Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer services...................36 Florida Mineral, Salt & Ag............44 Fred’s Market Restaurant................9 Grove Equipment Service..............17 Grove Equipment Service............29 Grove Equipment Service............48 Helena Chemical-Tampa...............21 Hinton Farms Produce, Inc............16 International Market World.........20 J&J Tack Shack..............................15 Jeff Walden Painting.....................39 Key Plex............................................45 Knights Station Feed......................37 Lightsey Cattle Co.........................39 Mosaic.................................................9 Parkesdale Farms............................13 Pathway Biologic.............................41 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association...................4 QLF Specialty Products...................7 Russell’s Western Wear.................43 Seedway.............................................11 Southeastern Septic, LLc.............20 Southside Store, LLC.......................3 Southside Store, LLC.....................19 Southwestern Produce..................29 Squeal Deal Animal Control..........5 Stephanie Humphrey.....................42 Stingray Chevrolet.........................47 The Bug Man..................................39 Werts Welding...............................25
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SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
June 2013
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On Saturday, May 11 the Polk County Junior Cattlemen’s Association held their first annual Ranch Rodeo. While the main purpose was a fund raising event to grow the treasury so their various teams could attend and compete in the contests held at the Florida Cattlemen’s Association each year, additional life lessons were learned as they dealt with all the details of putting on an event of this type. Under the watchful eye of advisors Jeremy and Summer Walker, they visited other ranch rodeos, decided what events to include and then wrote up the rules for these events. They next contacted teams to compete and had five teams enter the competition. As always, sponsors are needed to defray costs of such events. The hard working committees found businesses and individuals to provide prizes or funding for prizes. All the hard work paid off. The rodeo was well run, fun to watch and moved along at a pace that held every-
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one’s interest. There were many behind the scenes supporters of this event, the people providing the stock, getting it to the event and returning it to its home ranch, the people handling the stock in the pens and the arena, the judges, timekeepers and announcer, as well as those preparing the food and manning the concession stand. Thank you to all who shared in making this a successful event, but most important of all is congratulations to a group of young people who had an idea and put forth a lot of hard work and attention to detail to work toward a common goal of supporting an industry that one day they hope to become a part of.
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widely for the first 15 years A• The cowtelephone can give was milknot only afterappreciated it has a calf. Abecause cow that eats did only 50inglasses of milk a people notgrass see acan usegive for it.about In fact, the British day. A cowitthat grass, there corn, was hay no andneed mixed feeds can produce parliament was eats mentioned for telephones about 100 glasses of milk messengers a day. because “we have enough here.” Western Union Cows eatthat about 90 pounds of nutritious food a Inday; 90an pounds of believed it could never replace the telegraph. 1876, food equals about baked potatoes. internal memo read:210 “This telephone has too many shortcomings Iftoyou milked cows by hand, person could milk about eight be seriously considered as aone means of communication.” Even cows an hour. A dairy about 60Graham cows anBell hour Mark Twain, upon being could invitedmilk by Alexander to with one man and in 14 the machines. invest $5,000 new invention, could not see a future in the One cow will produce about 200,000 glasses of milk in her telephone. lifetime. The cows need to drink lots of water so they can make • President that, “everything thatacan invented milk. CowsMcKinley drink 25said to 50 gallons of water day.beThat is nearly a has already bathtub full!been invented.” Milk thatAlexander the cow Graham gives hasBell two partsaway to it, innonfat • When passed 1922,milk everyand cream. The creamiest part comes outUSA of the during the telephone served by of thethe Bellmilk system in the andcow Canada last milking. was part silentofforthe one minute.Did you know butter is made from cream? The record holding cow produced 52,298 pounds (almost 7,000 • Alexander Graham Bellyear. never phoned his wife gallons) of milk in one or mother because they were deaf. The most popular dairy breed in America is the Holstein. It takes about 350 squirts to get agreeting. gallon ofAlexander milk fromGraham a cow, and • “Ahoy” was the original telephone most cows are milked twice a day. Bell suggested ʻahoyʼ (as used in ships), but was later superceded Itbytakes 3 gallons of milk to make one gallon of ice cream, and 30 Thomas Edison, who suggested ʻhelloʼ instead. cups of milk to make one pound of butter. • Theaverage conceptdairy of allocating telephone numbers The cow weighs 1,400 pounds.to individual phone lines was doctor Each dairyinvented cow is by feda 50 to 90 pounds of grain and hay each day. The plastic milk jug was introduced in the U.S. in 1967.
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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
JANUARY 2013
June 2013
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MASTER
GARDENER
By Debra Howell
About Orchids
Of all the gardening topics we’ve covered in the three plus years of this column, this is the one about which I know the least. And now I’m going to elaborate on how someone with absolutely no knowledge of orchids can still grow them successfully.
My previous foray into orchid cultivation ended when I unsuccessfully attempted to transplant a small orchid that I got at the annual Master Gardener Christmas party and plant exchange. Last April, when my mother reached 100 years, she received, among other plants, three Phalaenopsis bearing blooms. One had been artificially treated to make it appear a blue color. They have survived, thanks to my diligence to bring them in when the temperature dropped below sixty degrees. Actually, the Phalaenopsis and Vandas prefer night temps of 65 to 70 degrees. I have several plants which I am diligent to protect in winter: Orchids, Episcia, African Violets and my Silver Buttonwood and Geiger tree which occur in zones 10 and 11. Orchids in nature are very hardy. Believe it or not, orchids occur on all continents with the exception of Antarctica. Orchids may be typified as either tropical or temperate, and may grow on the ground, in trees and even on rocks. Extremely popular in England, orchids were cultivated by the Royals because apparently they were the only ones who could afford these exotic plants. Indeed, Europe spawned the “orchid cult” which arose in the eighteenth century. But in the 28th century, before Christ, two orchids were depicted in Chinese manuscript. Then orchid books began to show up in Japan in 1728, where they were enjoyed by royals there. Orchids have been used medicinally to cure real or imagined health or fertility issues. To obtain an overview of these issues and a glance into the mindset of the first century A.D., Google Dioscorides, Greek physician, and his De Materia Medica. Due to the intense popularity of these plants, people attempting to grow them in the late 19th century experienced problems with cultivation due to the lack of information on cultural practices. This feverish preference for orchids 10
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caused the need for proper housing for these exotic plants totally out of their comfort zones and the greenhouse was invented. According to the IFAS Bulletin ENH33, Floridians blessed with a tropical environment may select from a wide range of plant forms and colors provided by the species and hybrids in this diverse family. Commonly recommended genera are Vanda, Epidendrum, Dendrobium, Cattleya, Oncidium and Phalaenopsis. The most widely grown of these types is the Cattleya. My two personal favorite orchids are the native Butterfly orchid (Encyclia tampensis) and the Longhorn ground orchid with its green bloom looking somewhat like an alien mantis. Blooms occur in all basic colors and white, either singly or variously combined, from pastel to bold hues. Flowers range from tiny to seven inches. But I really like the foliage, as well. That’s what you’ll see summer and winter, with flowers forming mostly in the spring or fall. The blooms may last six weeks. When you receive your first orchid as a gift, or bravely purchase one on your own, you’ll probably need to repot the thing. Here’s where I usually meet my Waterloo! That’s why I have three orchids in need of repotting, as well as the materials to do the job, yet the job goes undone. So do as I say -- not as I do. Actually, by tweaking your watering and fertilizer practices, orchids may be grown in wire and redwood baskets, cork, and clay and plastic pots, as well as attaching them directly to a tree. For a growing medium, choose coir (coconut fiber), osmunda, peat, tree fern bark, porous stone, charcoal and combinations of materials. Your plants will probably need to be repotted every two or three years as the medium decomposes. To repot, replace the medium and position the plant in the new pot and fill in with medium around the roots. Secure the plant with “rhizome clips” on anchor to an upright support. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
You may try your hand at raising orchids from seeds. Can you believe there are people who can successfully accomplish that feat?! You may use either organic or inorganic fertilizer formulated for orchids at a ratio of 1-1-1 if you feel the need. Soluble fertilizers may be dissolved and applied in place of a watering. How much water should you apply to your orchid? This will be indicated by the type of container you use. Typically, plants grown in clay will need more water than those in plastic. Saturate the pot until water drains from the bottom and then refrain until the medium surface is dry. Most orchids require partial shade such as beneath trees or under house eaves, but I’ve seen the Longhorn ground orchids in full sun. Be sure to keep the plastic tag when you buy your plant. Purchasing a book on orchids would probably behoove you. You’ll need to scrutinize the temperatures in the winter, or even late fall. Usually, the minimum temperature desirable for orchids is 50 degrees. Orchids are relatively pest-free. If you encounter problems, consult the county extension office for diagnosis. These beauties, of which I have experienced fear and trepidation, are not near as intimidating today as they were even a year ago. Two of the three orchids my mom received for her 100th birthday last year are blooming again, the blue one morphing to white now. So when I asked a fellow Master Gardener if the plants were okay, they asked if they were blooming. I responded with a “yes,” and they said, “then they are on time and just fine.” I’d say that’s a vast improvement for someone with an unnatural fear of plant material! WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Top Honors
Kathleen—from left to right are: Kyle Phillips, Alec Dehne, Brevyn Foreman and Ashley Meredith
Crystal Lake—from left to right: Cassandra Toner, Kaley May, Luke Tefoe and Garrison Russell.
Kathleen FFA and Crystal Lake Middle FFA Take Top Honors in Aquaculture Aquaculture in Florida generates over 40 million dollars annually for our state’s economy. The principal crop in Florida is tropical fish. Polk County is home to 19 aquaculture farms according to the Polk Farm Bureau web site and the growth opportunity in this industry is unprecedented. Kathleen High School’s agriculture department is preparing students for careers in this growing field by offering Aquaculture courses. The program is in its third year and enrollment is growing. The Florida FFA Association recognizes this growing agriculture field and has developed a career development event to challenge students’ skills in aquaculture. The Aquaculture CDE was held Friday May 10 at the University of Florida’s Aquatic Research Center in Ruskin. The event requires students to learn over 80 fish species, 120 aquatic plants, water quality parameters, the identification of diseases and parasites, anatomy and physiology, as well as production techniques, including tank designs and management practices. Additionally, the team is presented with a specific situation they must address in a 5-7 minute team presentation. Students are given the problem, a reference and 30 minutes to prepare for the presentation. The event requires
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students to have a ton of scientific knowledge, technical skills, team working skills and they must be able to think on their feet. The event is truly preparing students for future careers. Kathleen FFA and Crystal Lake Middle FFA won the 2013 state contest in each division. Kathleen team members were Alec Dehne, Brevyn Foreman, Ashley Meredith and Kyle Phillips, all students in the aquaculture program. Ashley Meredith, a senior, said, “The contest was more challenging than expected. Everything we learned and did in class prepared us for the contest.” As part of their preparation, the Kathleen team toured local aquaculture farms and worked with Crystal Lake Middle School. Crystal Lake team members were Cassandra Toner, Kaley May, Luke Tefoe and Garrison Russell. Luke was the state high individual in the middle school event. The students will be recognized at the Florida FFA State Convention in Orlando in June. Kathleen FFA will advance to the national FFA Aquaculture career development event in Louisville, Kentucky in October where students will compete against aquaculture teams across the nation. Congratulations to Kathleen FFA and Crystal Lake Middle FFA for this amazing accomplishment.
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Tampa ught while fishing wall anish mackerel ca Sp the ge off hu s a wa th e wi bit Bridget ; the mackerel re Go dy oo W st. ain ca Bay with Capt a fish on every s like we caught that morning seem om ygore.c www.captainwood
Memory or Instinct The popular observation that fish are merely instinct driven has given way to new theories. Scientists now believe they possess compound mental and cognitive abilities with the capacity to remember. This ability to remember indicates the mental capacity for memory. Worldwide, scientist doing studies in aquaculture concerning fish behavior are finding them capable of pursuing Machiavellian strategies of manipulation, punishment, and understanding, while exhibiting stable communal traditions. The many species that cooperate in recognizing predators and catching food is a good example. For fish to learn requires retaining an experience, object, event or information. To retain something necessitates the use of “short-term and long term memory.” Without getting into scientific rhetoric, short-term memory stores limited amounts of information for limited periods, roughly 15-30 seconds. This contrasted to long-term memory, where an unlimited amount of information is stored indefinitely and recalled from 30 seconds to decades later. Memory also involves and improves with practice, indicating the presence of: 1. Procedural (skill based) or how to do things, forage and catch food. 2. Episodic (episodes) or objects, events and good or near fatal experiences. For example, fish quickly retain experiences with predators. 3. Spatial (navigate) learn to map and recognize bottom contours as they move about using the same routes from deep to shallow water and back. 4. Habituation (getting used to) repeatedly hooked on a certain lure or bait adequately reinforces this process. Had the scientist consulted with any aged or seasoned angler they might have shortened the study considerably. Most longtime anglers would gladly explain that fish must have memories, how else could they differentiate between sounds, colors, navigate territorial waters, know what food is, and what’s a predator. Guess it takes someone with a PhD/Doctorate or other scientific title to explain it, before it can be accepted as fact. 14
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Anglers, especially avid ones, understand psychological reasoning leads to understanding. In other words, the behavioral characteristics of fish, how they behave at certain times to certain colors, noise, flash, and water depth, involves a learning process. To further what many old-time fishermen have known for years, studies being done in aquaculture offer substantiated proof that fish do react to colors, noise and stimuli indicating the presence of memory. Which brings us to the question, artificial lures or baits? Those who fish with regularity appreciate that this question is not easy to answer. Various reasons indicate fish interpret baits or lures as either food or predator, food if previously eaten and predator if hooked. They may also get used to seeing it, which decreases its effectiveness. Psychologists refer to this as habituation (requiring memory) or getting used to something. Understandably, we know fish repeatedly eat and are hooked on the same lures and baits. However, this does not indicate a loss of memory. It can however, indicate a stronger urge to protect its territory or the basic instinct associating hunger with food. Territoriality cases in point would be that of a bedding largemouth bass. Tournament bass anglers often spend hours trying to hook a female bass guarding its bed. Time after time, she removes the lure before finally eating it, probably more through frustration rather than hunger. How about that monster snook, hooked many times previously, heads for the mangroves or dock pilings remembering this survival technique means freedom. Consistently, successful anglers and hunters understand that members of our animal world use their senses starting from birth to gather information in relation to their world. However, without a memory all would be useless. The fact that they do have memories relates to the principal goals of species survival and becomes and important tool in the evolutionary process. Usually taken for granted, when given some thought, we soon realize these marvelous creatures are actually fairly intelligent, often beyond our comprehension. So, treat them with the respect they deserve and remember that lifetime trophy you just landed did not get that big by “Being Stupid” it just made an error in judgment. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Let’s Go Fishing in Tampa Bay: Fishing Repor June 2013
Tampa Bay offers excellent angling for over 200 species of fish. Tampa Bay starts at the extreme north end and goes all the way down to the Skyway Bridge. Pick a good day with a respectable incoming or outgoing tide and catch fish. Many places are fishable from land for shore anglers or accessible to those who like to wade. For those with boats or Kayaks there are many public and private boat ramps located throughout the bay area. The big mackerel have moved into the bay and it sure makes for an exciting “fun-fishing” trip for the kids. Snook (Still Closed Season) The Tampa Bay snook bite’s been excellent around the mangroves on high water and on the grass flats early in the morning. Greenbacks, shrimp, cut pinfish and cut ladyfish, or you can try your hand at something new and catch some on artificial lures, especially topwater’s early in the AM. They are still out of season, so put them back.
Redfish
Redfish are popping up all over the Bay and pushing in as the tide climbs. There is no shortage of large mullet schools and Redfish aren’t far behind. Green backs, small pinfish, shrimp, cut bait and for those that like pitching soft plastics and topwater’s around the mangroves, you can expect some great action on high incoming tides. If you’re lucky to find a school moving around a shoreline, setup and wait. They will move back and forth when feeding. Chasing them only causes them to scatter.
Fishing with Captain Woody Gore, here is one of several nice redfish caught by Brian Anderson fishing cut bait and live greenbacks on a shallow grass flat in middle Tampa Bay. www.captainwoodygore.com
“GIVE ME A CALL & LET”S GO FISHING” Capt. Woody Gore’s been fishing in Florida for over 50 years and offers guided fishing charters in Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Clearwater, and Tarpon Springs. For more information or to book a trip. Call or email a reservation request form from my website: Cell: 813-477-3814 • Office: 813-982-2034 Email: wgore@ix.netcom.com
www.captainwoodygore.com
Spotted Sea Trout
The Fort Desoto area is finally seeing a return of really large spotted sea trout, many over 20 inches. Also the southeast shore and the south end of Tampa Bay are reporting good catches on incoming or outgoing tides. As always, live free-lined greenbacks or shrimp are the best baits for Trout and I’ve had good success catching them on cut bait when fishing for redfish. Or suspend either under Paradise Popper cork with a medium split-shot about 8” about a 2/0 circle hook then find any good grass flat and you should catch all the trout you want this month. Using topwater popping plugs or soft plastic jerk baits and fishing broken bottom grass flats, especially the grassy potholes, can offer artificial anglers some exciting action. Mackerel Mackerel are showing up all over the Bay. Find a school of Threadfins, start chumming and hold on. I’ve been catching them up to 3 and 4 pounds using long shank 2/0 hooks and 50 pound Seaguar Fluorocarbon 60# leader. Try a popping cork and split shot like you would for Trout. It works well when the Threadfins are really thick. Cobia I’ve been seeing a few Cobias around the Bay. Most are cruising markers or following large rays or manatees around the flats. Tarpon are at the Skyway. Grab a few Threadfins for large Greenbacks on a slow in or out tide, anchor and chum by cutting some bait into pieces. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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The New Ag Lender in Town Though Bankers South Lending & Financing may be new to the ag industry, they have a lot of experience in the lending world. Bankers South, based in Lakeland, is the lending arm of parent company Land South, founded in 2002 by Brian Philpot and Rob Harper. Bankers South provides a variety of loan products, including conventional agricultural real estate loans through the AgAmerica Lending program. Over the past year, AgAmerica Lending has been growing steadily. AgAmerica loans cover all facets of farming, from smaller blueberry farmers, to vast cattle ranches. The folks at Bankers South know and understand the issues of needing capital to grow in the ag world. With over 200 years of combined agricultural backgrounds and experience, they know what it takes to make it in the agricultural industry. Growing up in DeSoto County, Dale Johnson, Senior Vice President at Bankers South, is a sixth generation Floridian. He has been a certified public accountant for the last 21 years and his focus has been in the origination of agricultural loans and agribusiness consulting. Johnson also spent eight years as the Controller for a large 9,000+-acre row crop operation in Southwest Florida. With all of his experience in the agricultural industry, Dale has gained an insight into the financial needs of farmers and ranchers. Mostly lending on land, since not many banks were willing to, Bankers South’s asset-based, “bridge” loan program has grown over the past few years. By listening to their friends, the owners of Bankers South realized there was a need for low interest loans in the agricultural community. Long term customers of theirs were repeatedly coming to them having problems finding or continuing their agricultural funding. After the financial crisis of 2008, traditional ag lenders and local banks were stuck with non-performing loans leading them to not renew current loans on their balance sheets, downgrade their portfolio size and have stricter lending regulations. This, in turn, forced higher interest rates and longer loan processes. 18
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Due to their agricultural and financing backgrounds, the folks at Bankers South understand that a typical ag borrower’s assets are not very liquid and their cash flow may not always be steady. Because of this they offer flexible payment options: annual, semi-annual or monthly. Another way Bankers South helps farmers and ranchers is by offering a Line of Credit that has no “resting period” for ten years. A resting period is where a bank will require a borrower to pay back all funds for a short period, usually thirty days, once a year. No resting period allows the farmer to keep the money in the commodity, where it is needed, for the entire ten years with only one upfront approval. Unlike some banks, Bankers South has no prepayment penalty, that means you will not be charged a fee if you repay the loan early. Whether the loan for a small farm, a cattle ranch or a citrus grove, Bankers South is glad to help farmers and ranchers continue to grow their business by offering great terms and low interest rates. “While we lend all over the U.S., we are especially excited to help our neighbors in Central Florida get the lending they need to grow their businesses,” said Philpot. “We may be the new Ag lender in town, but our clients are already sharing about the ways we have saved them money on their investment projects,” said Leigh Ann Wynn, Director of Marketing and Business Development for Bankers South. “Cattlemen are shocked when they hear how low our rates are and that we can offer terms as long as 25 years.” While the American dream may include a house with a picket fence for some, for others it has a wider vista, including acres of grass pastures, rows of crops or timber. Contact Bankers South today to see if these loans are the right choice for your ag operation by calling 855 898 BANK (2265) or email LeighAnn@BankersSouth. com.
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with a few clothes and a couple of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. As he started for the front door his mother asked him where he was going. ‘I’m leaving home,’ he said. ‘And what are you carrying?’ she asked. ‘Some clothes and food,’ was his reply. ‘Dick, if you want to run away, that’s alright,’ his mother said. “Smiley Face” is still popular, Takeru Kobayashi Wing ‘But you came into this home without anything and you can leave I recall whenitDick in high school he was hired by A.P. Cooke, although was was created in 1963 Bowl Champion 337 wings the same way.’ He put down his suitcase on the floor defiantly and owner of the Plant City Courier, as a part-time type setter. Dick in 30 minutes was later delegated the job of laying out the classified ads. He was started for the door again. ‘Wait a minute,’ his mother said. ‘You you about all atthefirst fads haveto didn’t have any clothes on when you arrived, and I want them pretty ave good at ever what thought he did, although he that was you known gone through during your lifetime? A fad is any form of WhenTurning I was in thequickly Mexican back.’ redmy as ateens beet he took off his clothes, shoes, make a few slip ups. On his first publication he had an ad for behavior develops among have a large population and is jumping bean was theall,craze. socks, underwear and and Joaquin hollered, ‘Now Mom, can I go Barwick’s Drug that Store, which should read, “Wanted: Partcollectively with for fountain.” some period, genHernandez jumped on the ‘but craze andyou close that door, don’t ‘Yes’, was her answer, once time job for followed married girl to enthusiasm work our soda When the now?’ erally as a result of the behavior’s being perceived as novel made millions. The beans are actually ever expect to come back.’” Courier came out it read, “Wanted: Part-time married girl to work in some way. A fad is said to “catch on” when the number of moth larvae trapped inside the seedour soda fountain.” The only other one I can remember was an people adopting it begins to increase rapidly. The behavior pod, but they fascinated the masses. ad for Carlos Cone. It read, “Wanted, man to take care of cows Dick’s dad said his son was so angry he slammed the door and will normally fade quickly once the perception of novelty is Hernandez hasthe been known sellpeeked as stepped out on front porch.toShe through the window at Cones ranch that does not smoke or drink.” gone. Now you know the definition of a fad, let’s take a look many as 20 millioncompletely of them, naked. employand there he stood He saw two girls coming at a few of them. ing asthemany 50immediately people to collect, streetasand jumped in the shrubbery. Last month Dick gave me a copy of his new book entitled, “Life down package and export the BEANS. and Times of Plant City in the 1940s” (copies are available at the Some of the biggest fads were the hula hoop, pea shooter, the girls passed by he ran to the front door and knocked Plantbottoms, City Photo Archives). through brought After bell platform shoes,Reading parachute pantsthe likepages MC Hammer Remember “Telephone-Booth” stuffloudly. back a lot of memories. He recalled in the good ole days, when wore, and wearing overalls with one strap hanging down. ing? In 1959 twenty-five South African everyone was low on money, they suffered because of rationing. students climbed into a telephone booth his mother said. He writes being rationed during II, you were “Who’s Before ourabout time,gas flagpole sitting was theWorld rage. War In 1924, a Holto set athere?” new world record for what was, given a sticker to putAlvin on your windshield gas. Either “B” lywood stuntman, Kelly, sat on a for flagpole for 13“A,” hours. at this time, a non-existent event. This “It’s me, on Dick, me in!” or “C”. Usually, as broke I remember, you were allowed onlyonfive Five years later he the world’s record, and sat a caught biglettime. Students in England, the gallons offor gas49atday. a time. flagpole The depression followed and put an end U.S., and Canada immediately went to work “Dick doesn’tmethods live heretoany more!”more she replied. to flagpole sitting. developing squeeze people in One day I went to Bell’s restaurant for lunch and sat next to a phone booth. Dick’s I toldfreshman him we were good friends, and always “Aw, c’mom, I’m still your son. Please let me in!” In 1939,dad. Harvard Lithrop Withington, Jr., were swallowed atelling goldfish forona each $10.00 bet. set and off asaid, rash“Did of goldfish Last year Takeru Kobayashi polished off a restories other. HeThis laughed you ever Dick’s father concluded, her slowly swallowing. current world record, 300 fish in one sitcord 337 chicken wings“Iinwatched 30 minutes to be open the door hear the storyThe of Dick leaving home?” with a smile on her face, and say, change your mind ting, was set in 1974. crowned champion of Wing Bowl“Did 20 you in Philabout running away?” DickSuper walked in, grinned, and said, adelphia just prior to the Bowl. “No,” I replied. “Tell me about it.” “What’s foryears supper?” Even today the “Smiley Face” is still popular, although it was Over the this has been a fad that created in 1963 part of an Dick insurance company to comes and goes. The 128-pound Kobayashi, a six-time hot He laughed and as said, “When was seven years campaign old he decidimprove mergerhiswith dog eating was competing in his first WingtheBowl. pointedchampion, out a lot of things I had forgotten about 40s. ed to runemployee away frommorale home. following I recall heapacked littleanother suitcase Dick company. It means, “Have a nice day.” The Charlie 33-year-old attended the event a spectator, Blind was the peanut vendor. We in had2011 innerastubes inside of
O
ne of my long-time friends in Plant City is Dick Elston. Ever since high school we have enjoyed our friendship and telling jokes.
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taking time to impress the crowd by eating a cheese steak sandwich in 24 seconds. A few years back there was a “no soap” fad, where people would shower and never use soap. The world’s record is held by “Stinky” from LA, (lower Alabama) who did not use soap of any kind for 18 months. Some of you old timers might remember these fads - TV Dinners, Drive-In Theatres, Smiley Face Stickers, Pet Rocks, Fondue Pots and Peace Bandanas. Remember when you guys would fill up the trunk with your friends and pay the price of two and go to the Plant City Drive In Theatre on 39 south of Plant City? I know some of the University of Florida male graduates reading this article participated in the “Panty Raid” fad of the 50s. Some of my classmates with crew cuts at Plant City High School dropped many nickels in the jukebox at the Plant City Drive In while getting curb service in their ’56 Chevy all decked out with fins and a lot of chrome. The CB radio fad of the 70s hung around a long time. A lot of new lingo came about from it like “Ten-Four Good Buddy” and “Breaker, Breaker”! The one less remember fad was the hate of the metric system. In 1975 the U.S. federal government adopted it as the nation’s preferred measurement system. The moment of success was short-lived. Late in the 70s, metric hating became a national pastime. Everybody was confused and rejected the system hands down. Businessmen were concerned about the cost of replacing machinery and tools, while conspiracy theorists feared metric road signs would kick off a Russian invasion. It got so bad that President Ronald Reagan stopped the conversion program as part of his 1982 budget cutbacks. About the only thing still using the metric system are the 2-liter soft drink bottles. Do you know how many ounces in a twoliter bottle? Of course not! Look at the label. In the 70s everybody was on the lookout for UFO’s and Big Foot. The only flying saucer I’ve ever seen was the one thrown at me when my sister, Betty, threw one at me for putting salt in her tea. As far as Big Foot is concerned, I saw a lot of them when I worked on Saturday’s at Methvin’s Shoe Store across from McCrory’s in downtown Plant City. The only person I ever remember wearing a “Zoot Suit” was Hilman Bowden at the Senior Prom. For those who do not know what a “Zoot Suit” looks like let me describe one as best I can remember. It didn’t look like anything you’d wear to work. It had broad shoulders, a taped waist, and baggy pats that ended in real cool, pegged cuffs. The depression poverty, World War II, and moms disapproving look put an end to the “Zoot Suit.” Other fads you might remember are mood rings, lava lamps and the Cabbage Patch Kids. Until next month, I hope you live to be 105, and the last person you speak to is me. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Working Together to Prevent Trailer Thefts By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has many valuable partnerships in the community. Without these partnerships, we wouldn’t have the historically low crime rate that we do – our crime rate is down 8.15% since last year, and 30% less than the state crime rate. In fact, the crime rate (crimes per 100 residents) is down in unincorporated Polk County 62.9% since 1997. This month we’d like to focus on a local crime trend we’ve seen right here in and around Polk County: the theft of citrus grove trailers. In April 2013, Polk County Sheriff’s Agricultural Crimes deputies, along with Winter Haven Police Officers, arrested and charged three men for multiple counts of citrus trailer thefts and giving false verification to metals dealers. So far, deputies have identified 77 trailers stolen by these three suspects.
According to their affidavits, 39-year-old Ruben Ramirez of Fort Meade, his brother, 31-year-old Richard Ramirez also of Fort Meade, and their accomplice, 60-year-old Donald Ray Mosley of Fort Meade, were responsible for the thefts of over 70 citrus trailers from packing houses throughout Polk County, since 2010. The trio stole trailers from citrus packing houses in Bartow, Lake Wales, Winter Haven, Davenport, Lake Hamilton, and Lakeland, and then scrapped them at various metal scrap dealers. Many of the trailers that were stolen had not been reported stolen. The investigation began when Ruben Ramirez and Donald Mosley were arrested earlier in April by the Winter Haven Police Department for Grand Theft. In that case, on March 17, 2013, two suspects driving a white Peterbilt tractor stole a citrus trailer from River Gold Citrus, at the W.G. Roe facility on 7th Street SW in Winter Haven. The theft was reported to the Winter Haven Police Department. WHPD Officers tracked the stolen trailer via its GPS system, traveling along the Polk Parkway. Officials with the Polk Parkway gave WHPD photos of the stolen truck and citrus trailer. WHPD officers gave the photos to River Gold Citrus, and on April 3, 2013, a driver for the business spotted the suspect vehicle (the white Peterbilt tractor with distinguishing marks) being hooked up to another trailer at the W.G. Roe facility. The witness immediately reported it to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. PCSO deputies responded to the scene as the tractor was pulling out of the yard, towing 26
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another stolen trailer. PCSO deputies initiated a traffic stop on the Peterbilt tractor, and arrested driver Ruben Ramirez and passenger Donald Mosley. Ramirez and Mosley told deputies they were taking the trailer to make repairs on it. However, deputies quickly established that they had indeed stolen the trailer, and used tape and spray paint to conceal its identity. They also used tape and spray paint to cover any distinguishing marks on the Peterbilt tractor. Deputies delivered the suspects to the Winter Haven Police Office to be interviewed for the previously-reported trailer theft. Both Ramirez and Mosley were booked into the Polk County Jail that day (April 3rd) and both were charged with Grand Theft. Meanwhile, PCSO Agricultural Crimes deputies were investigating the January thefts of two citrus trailers from the River Gold Citrus facility located in Bartow (Peace River Citrus Plant). After Mosley’s April 3rd arrest, PCSO Agricultural deputies responded to the jail to interview him. Post-Miranda, Mosley told deputies that he, Ruben, and Richard Ramirez had been stealing citrus trailers throughout the county since 2010. Mosley told deputies they would use Ruben Ramirez’s tractor or truck, drive it into parking lots of citrus plants during the late evening or early morning hours when nobody was around, hook up a trailer to it, drive it somewhere out of sight such as behind a store or restaurant, remove the company names, VIN numbers, tags, and identifying markings by either covering them with paint or throwing the tags away in random dumpsters, and then scrap the trailer at a scrap yard. They used scrap yards in Polk, Hillsborough, and Hardee counties. Through the cooperation of our fellow law enforcement agencies and the business owners of Polk County, we were able to put a stop to the systematic theft of citrus trailers that has plagued these businesses, and businesses outside of Polk County, for three years. Here are some tips to help us prevent citrus grove trailer thefts: • Identify your property. For example, paint your name or any other unique identifying mark on your agricultural equipment, including vehicles, cables, pumps, and structures. Criminals will have a harder time selling or scrapping items that clearly belong to someone else. • Record and retain all serial numbers on your equipment. • When possible, use locks to prevent access to your equipment. • Maintain a presence at your property as much as possible – drive by every day at different times, and check to see if anything has been disturbed. Ensure your property is clearly marked with “No Trespassing” signs. • Keep the below list of PCSO Agricultural Crime Unit numbers handy. Call us if you see or hear about anything suspicious. We have many wonderful partnerships throughout the county, especially in our Agricultural community. Please do not hesitate to contact us when you see something amiss. Together, we can make a positive difference. Phone numbers for the PCSO Agricultural Crimes Unit: • Major Mike Pruitt 863-298-6220 • Captain Rob Oakman 863-298-6323 • Lieutenant Steve Horstman 863-534-7205 WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Photo by: Ron O’Connor
Farm Credit of Central Florida representatives had a chance to talk to Senator Marco Rubio in Lakeland regarding issues relevant to Florida agriculture and Farm Credit. From L-R:Farm Credit of Central Florida President & CEO, Reggie Holt, & Senator Rubio. Back Row, Farm Credit of Central Florida Directors, Keith Mixon, Lewis Stidham, John Langford, & Dennis Carlton. Photo by: Ron O’Connor deed restrictions dealing with landscape issues; pruning practices; problem plants such as invasive, non-native plants; pesticide and fertilization practices; plant nutritional deficiencies; mulch application; and irrigation system issues including frequency and timing of applications. Other frequent areas of interest cited by communities participating in the FFL Community Association Outreach Program have included stormwater pond best management practices, dealing with erosion caused by stormwater runoff and questions involving reclaimed water. Evaluations and recommendations are based on science-based research from UF/IFAS. In addition to site evaluations, the Community Association Outreach Program offers onsite presentations about the FFL principles.
The FFL Community Association Outreach Program is a free resource Credit Central Florida Directors, John Langford, of Lakeland and forFarm HOAs andofother community associations to provide for guidance Wetherington (Right) oflandscape Dover display an oversized check depicting in Ron instituting sustainable practices, reviewing landscapethe $141,000,000 million in patronage refunds the board of directors has related covenants andsignificantly working with landscape maintenance contracdeclared since 1988, lowering its Members’ cost of funds. tors. FFL has had several success stories with communities that adoptCredit ofwhich Central Florida Share edFarm FFL practices from they were able toMembers see reduced water consumption and water utility and maintenance costs. Contact me at the in Patronage Refund Exceeding $2.4 Million Hillsborough County Extension Service, 813-744-5519 x 54142, if Farm Credit of Central Florida’s Board of Directors has declared a these services would benefit your homeowner or condominium associpatronage refund exceeding $2.4 million, allowing its eligible Memberation. Borrowers to significantly lower their cost of funds. “The patronage refund is a form of profit sharing distinguishing Farm Credit from other lenders,” said information Chairman of on theenvironmental Board, David J.horticulture Stanford, a Winter For more topics, Garden citrus grower. contact your local County Extension Service.
Additional information on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Farm Credit of Central Florida is a Customer-Owned lender providing /floridayards.org, http://fyn.ifas.ufl.edu and can be accessed at http:/ funds to agricultural operations, and residential Customers for financWaterMatters.org. ing, new construction, or refinancing. The cooperative also offers crop The Florida-Friendly Community Association insurance to area farmers Landscaping™ and ranchers. Part of the nationwide Farm Credit SystemProgram created inis1916, Farm Credit Central Florida serves Outreach sponsored by theof University of Florida’s 13 central of Florida including, Sciences, Orange, Osceola, Lake, Sumter, Institute Foodcounties and Agricultural the Hillsborough and Seminole, Volusia, Brevard, Polk, Hillsborough, Citrus, Hernando, Polk Boards of County Commissioners and the Southwest Florida Pasco and Pinellas. Water Management District.
As a cooperative, Farm Credit of Central Florida Member-Borrowers share in the association’s profits, lowering their effective rate of funds. Since 1988, Farm Credit of Central Florida Members have benefitted from over $141,000,000 of patronage refunds, or profit sharing, declared by the Board of Directors. “Farm Credit of Central Florida services 2,100 loans and approximately $850 million in outstanding loan volume. Eligible Members will share in profits of more than $2.4 million with a return of 60% in cash of their earned interest from 2012. This is tangible evidence of the power of cooperative principles at work,” said Reginald T. Holt, President and CEO of the association. “Agriculture is the second largest industry in the state, ranking behind only tourism. Ranchers, growers, and farmers provide green space, and water recharge areas to the state in the normal course of producing the world’s safest, most affordable, and abundant supply of food and fiber. Farm Credit of Central Florida is proud to provide a stable, reliable, source of credit to Florida agriculture,” said David J. Stanford. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
ININTHE THEFFIELD IELD MAGAZINE AGAZINE June 2013 2013 2013 INTMHE FIELD MAGAZINEJune JANUARY
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Business Up Front
By Melissa Nichols In the beginning of the summer of 1981 best friends Jim and Jerry were driving along 98 near Combee Road. One had recently graduated from Florida Southern the other had just graduated from Lakeland Sr. High School. The friendship had begun several years prior at a local stable where they boarded their horses and rode together. Stopped at the red light they looked over at a partially burned down building and said, “Wouldn’t it be a great idea to put a tack shop in there? Someplace where you could just walk in and buy tack, feed and hay?” Nearly 32 years later, that conversation and idea has turned into seven locations and 40 employees. After many months of remodeling, and with the help of Jerry’s dad, they opened the very first J&J Tack Shack on November 11, 1981. Both of the guys had previous retail experience so they were familiar with what they needed to be successful. When they look back, they think about the fact that their first countertop was an old door and two sawhorses. But Jim and Jerry had a mission, this mission was to provide everything the horse lover would need and it has continued to grow from saddles and tack, to feed, insecticides, medicines, supplements, riding gear, and just about everything you could need for any animal you may have, whether it be a chicken, rabbit, dog, cat, horse or cow.
Jim and Jerry couldn’t buy tack locally and had little luck buying mail order products, so that gave them the idea to open a tack store that the area desperately needed. They have continued to expand their business over the last 32 years. Their stores carry products to suite the demands of the area, the N. Lakeland and Bartow store cater to the cattle industry heavily. Whereas the Brandon, S Lakeland, Dundee and the 13,000 28
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square ft. Ocala stores carry more equine products, including a full line of new and used Billy Cook saddles, Circle Y Brand, Tucker trail saddles, and J&J’s exclusive brand. They have a full line of equine products made just for them that provide exceptional value. A J&J brand saddle that is equivalent to a $1500 saddle is around $800. Although they do have a rule that is if one store doesn’t have a product, ask because another may have it. They are currently looking at property in Tampa for more expansion. J&J is not only a tack store, they have continued to increase the feeds they carry, between a full line of horse feeds such as Seminole and Nutrena, they have their own brand of feed as well. This is feed made for J&J that was designed to meet the nutritional needs of horses and cattle that gives an optimum value and competitive price. It is made exclusively for J&J by Nutrena. Sweet Blend is their most popular all-purpose livestock feed and it is comparative to feeds that cost $4 to $5 a bag more. Having seven stores gives them buying power that they pass on to their customers by selling feed cheaper than many competitors. They also carry a variety of fresh cut high quality hay. Some locations even have rolls of hay for sale. Jim and Jerry still have the same mission they had almost 32 years ago, to be a one stop shop and to make it easy for someone who has animals to stop in get everything they need and make life easier. They reflect on where the “idea” that day has gotten them. They both have children that are carrying on with their traditions and love for the outdoors, animals, horses and cattle. They dynamic duo also own a stable where people are able to board their horses and take lessons near Auburndale. Schalamar Creek Stables is a 40 stall barn on 15 acres with trails and an arena. This is very much a family based business. You often see Jerry’s daughters visiting the stores learning how to do everything dad does. Next time you pass a J&J Tack Shack stop in and see them, every pet lover will find something for their liking. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
*** All Items Are 8 lbs. Unless Otherwise Noted.***
VEGETABLES Foodhooks........................$22
Brussel Sprouts ................$14
Baby Butter Beans ...........$15
Baby Carrots .....................$14
Green Beans......................$14
Broccoli .............................$14
Pole Beans ........................$14
Cauliflower ........................$14
Speckled Butter Beans....$14
Mixed Vegetables.............$14
Blackeye Peas...................$14
Soup Blend........................$14
Butter Peas........................$14 Crowder Peas....................$14
FRUITS
Pinkeye Peas .....................$14
Blueberries 5# ..................$15
Sugar Snap Peas...............$15
Blackberries 5# ................$15
Zipper Peas.......................$14
Raspberries 5# .................$15
Green Peas ........................$14
Dark Sweet Cherries 5# ..$18
White Corn........................$14
Mango Chunks 5#.............$15
Yellow Corn.......................$14
Pineapple Chunks 5#.......$15
Cream White Corn 4#.......$6
Whole Strawberries 5# ...$15
Cream Yellow Corn 4# ......$6
Peaches..............................$15
Collard Greens ..................$13
Rhubarb #5 .......................$15
Mustard Greens.................$13 Turnip Greens....................$13
GEORGIA PECANS
Spinach ..............................$13
(Frozen)
Cut Okra.............................$13
Halves and Pieces
Breaded Okra....................$13
1 lb bag................................$9
Whole Okra .......................$13
2.5 lb bag ....................$22.25
Sliced Yellow Squash .......$13
5 lb bag.............................$44
Sliced Zucchini .................$13
10 lb bag ...........................$87
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Market Watch: Nice 2 Be Natural Pet Treats By Libby Hopkins
Robyn Fredericks is the owner of
Nice 2 Be Natural Pet Treats. She is also one of the vendors at the Lakeland Downtown Farmer’s Curb Market.
On a recent trip to the Lakeland Downtown Farmer’s Curb Market, I had a chance meeting with Robyn Fredericks of Nice 2 Be Natural Pet Treats. She is one of the vendors at the market and she sells all natural pet treats. She’s a great fit with the market because none of the vendors at the market are allowed to buy, sell or import anything from China or other countries. All the vendors must grow or make their own products. I think that’s the thing I love about this market is that it has an artesian/organic vibe to it. It’s almost like a big family get together when you go to the market, everyone there knows each other and supports each other as well. When you look at Fredericks’ pet treats, you can instantly tell there are no chemicals like Butylated Hydroxyanisole, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Propylene Glycol, or Ethoxyquin. These unpronounceable chemicals are found in non-automotive anti-freeze, pesticides and are used as a hardening agent in synthetic rubber. They are also found in some of the pet treats we buy at our local grocery stores. What you will find in Frederick’s pet treats are ingredients like peanut butter, parsley, flaxseed and fresh fruits to name a few. “I started making the pet treats from natural ingredients to feed to my pet pig Langston,” Fredericks said. “Langston had no desire for processed foods or foods that were not straight from the earth and I was discouraged by the treats out there that were either on recall or not made in this country.” Since Langston liked the treats so much she tried making treats for dogs and cats. They loved them and kept pawing at her leg for more. She started passing the treats along to her friends and their pets loved them as well, so she decided it was time to offer her treats to the general public. “I wanted so much to be in a setting where other natural food enthusiasts would take notice of my treats, so I decided to market the treats in the farmer’s market circuit,” Fredericks said. She likes being able to interact with her customers and find out about their pet’s needs. She also likes to pass along the knowledge she’s learned from creating the pet treats. “All of my pet treats offer different rewards such as the Peanut Butter Anise Dreams, they are a peanut butter base with the Anise herb,” Fredericks said. “ It is good for fresh breath, circulatory systems, digestion and the respiratory system.” What she likes most about selling her products at the 30
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market is being able to give pet owners an alternative to pet treats. “My philosophy is that if there are healthy pet treats in the home, then this will encourage the pet owner to have access to healthy food for their families in the home,” Fredericks said. “In return we will have healthy homes and communities that will be pure, natural and whole.” Fredericks is also a big supporter of shopping local and keeping the local economy thriving. “I think more and more people are learning about the importance of utilizing our resources, living green and supporting small businesses,” Fredericks said. “I am confident that if people come out and support what their community is offering, they will be more inspired, educated and informed.” Many of the vendors at the market feel the same way Fredericks does and they want people to come out and shop local at the market. Many of the items offered at the market you can’t find nor buy in your local big box store. “I take pride in all the treats I bake and create,” Fredericks said. “Everything is made from scratch and with love.” Her treats also keep the spirit of her beloved Langston alive. Her pig passed away a short time ago and it was heartbreaking for her and her family. “Langston is the whole reason I started my business and I want to keep his memory alive,” Fredericks said. This summer she is planning on starting “Langston’s Lunchbox” which is an outreach project that will bring organic produce with recipes cards to the homes of low income families in the Sulphur Springs area of Tampa. She is also planning on writing a children’s book about pigs.
If you would like more information on Frederick’s pet treats, you can call her at 863-816-5399 or email her at nice2benatural@gmail.com. You can also visit her stand at the Lakeland Downtown Farmer’s Curb Market every Saturday from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. The market is open from September thru July. For more information on the market, you can visit their website at www.downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org. The market is located at 200 North Kentucky Ave. in Lakeland. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
”It’s Big & Gigi Time!”
FRED ‘MR. FRED’ WILLIAMS RETIRES FROM PURINA By Jim Frankowiak
He’s been a beloved and respected part of agribusiness for 38 years, all as part of the sales team of Purina Animal Nutrition and its forerunner companies, but Area Sales Manager – Southern Coast Fred Williams has retired. Overseeing the Purina sales team in Florida, most of Alabama and parts of Georgia from his base in Mulberry since 1992, “Mr. Fred,” as he is known and referred to by many within and outside Purina, decided to focus on the healthcare needs of his wife Gale after a fourth recurrence with cancer in 2012 and the opportunity to spend more time with his grandchildren, golf and furthering his fondness for BBQ. “It’s Big and Gigi time,” said Williams referring to the nicknames he and his wife have. Retirement for Fred will mean continued involvement with the Florida FFA Foundation, where he is a board member, and the annual Purina Invitational Golf tourney (PIG), as well as Old Timers of Purina Service (OTOPS) and maybe a KCBS BBQ Contest or two along the way. Fred’s run has been noteworthy for many reasons and many are well documented in the “Book of Letters” given to him at his retirement party. The “Book” is a Purina tradition whereby colleagues write letters to the retiree, detailing achievements and special memories. Fred’s book, which was assembled by his assistant Kathy Becker, is a very substantial document with letters noting his attributes from leadership and mentoring to southern gentleman and man of God. Throughout his career Fred has hired, trained and mentored countless members of the Purina team and some have gone on to positions within the company whereby they oversee Fred. Quite a track record of achievement for a man from Como, Mississippi who initially aspired to a career in veterinary medicine. But first a “Mr. Fred” description of his hometown which is 40 miles south of Memphis “with one red stop light which we put on a cop car at night.” To understand Fred is to know and appreciate a man with a unique sense of humor. The son of Fred senior, a lifelong cattle buyer, and Marjorie, Fred Jr. thought he wanted to be a vet and he pursued an animal science curriculum at Mississippi State University. That was WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
also Gale’s major and they met in a sheep science class. After three attempts at vet school, Fred decided to accept one of three job offers he had as he approached graduation in 1975. “I think I am probably the only pre-vet class president at Mississippi State not to become a vet,” he noted. One of those job offers was from A. L. Occhipinti, a Ralston Purina (as the company was known then) executive Fred had met while involved in a summer internship before graduation. “Occh as Occhipinti was known to many, had a dramatic effect on me and my career and I am forever grateful to him for all that he did for me,” said Williams. His decision to join Purina led to 13 moves and 16 different titles, all involved with the sale of feed. “I was introduced to a white shirt and checkerboard tie, plus an annual salary of $9,600.” Those who know and have worked with Mr. Fred respect and admire his skills at working with people, developing sales talent, serving customers and always doing the right thing, often amid some serious challenges. His company has gone through seven different owners, bankruptcy protection and all of the challenges such events surface. His “Book of Letters” attests to is ability to work through most any situation and to do so in a manner that was respectful and meaningful, often laced with his special brand of humor. And, if there was a way to blend in a game of golf and some barbecue, he would do it. Williams and his friend Mark Poppell were instrumental in helping to introduce and grow the popular Pig Jam competition and event to Plant City. Williams is thankful for many things in his career and life. Gale, “like the hurricane” he says when asked for the correct spelling, is on the top of that list followed by daughters Candice and Krista, their spouses Paul and Daniel and two granddaughters, Allie and Taylor and a third grandchild on the way, the first for Krista and Daniel. “We have been blessed with wonderful daughters and their fine husbands,” he said. Fred and Gigi are long term members of Plant City First Baptist Church and both daughters were married by Reverend Tommy Warnock. A special IN THE FIELD note of congratulations to Fred Williams for your years of service to agriculture and our fondest best wishes for “Big and Gigi time!” INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
June 2013
31
Polk on Pennies
By Jacque Levine
Polk County is a wonderful place to live.
We have just about everything at our fingertips. If you like the outdoors, you are in one of the most amazing locations in central Florida. Polk County has much to offer those who are looking for outdoor adventures and exciting excursions. Adventuring can be expensive. There isn’t a one of us who hasn’t thought of some amazing place to go only to stop short after looking at the price tag. For those of you who haven’t noticed, we are suffering economically. This means that every penny counts. This is especially true for families. I thought it would be nice to share some ways to enjoy Polk County for just pennies. So what types of adventures might you find here in Polk County? After all, if you are new to the outdoors, or even an old pro, there will be something new and some new twists on some familiar trips. Here we go. Biking trails offer the thrill of the outdoors with the benefits of exercise. There are trails that offer extreme mountain biking experiences for advanced riders and trails for relaxing family outings. Biking can be fun for the whole family. Make sure to check with local parks to see which type of trail is offered. Also, remember our helmet laws. Hiking trails offer beautiful landscapes and the benefits of cardio exercise. You can stop along the trail to explore or see the natural beauty. Hiking trails come in all skill levels and types. There are paved beginner paths in county parks and preserves, as well as marked wild trails that ramble into mysterious forests. Be prepared! Hikers should always know how long they are going to be exposed to the elements and pack accordingly. Remember small children and heat can be a nasty combination so bring what you need to make sure the 32 NT THE HEF FIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE une 2013 32 IIN JJune 2013
whole family can stay on the trail for the long haul. Nature and bird watching have always seemed to be for the nerdy types. Truth is, anyone who likes to look at plants or animals is a nature lover. So, don’t be afraid you won’t know the scientific names of all the things you will see. In fact, grab an Audubon identification booklet or pamphlet at the nature center and get out there and learn what those beautiful things are called. You might be surprised how exciting it is once you start. It gives the family a chance to share information and the joy of Florida up close and personally. Canoeing and kayaking offer summer fun on the water. There are many outposts that offer rentals or you can find a friend! Heck – if you like it, get your own. Paddling is a great way to enjoy being on the water without the expense of a boat. Rivers, lakes, and streams offer sweeping vistas of some of the most breathtaking scenes in Polk County. This can be an advanced adventure or a leisurely family outing. Don’t forget a picnic lunch! Historic sites are a great way to not only enjoy the outdoors, but learn about Polk County and its history. There are countless interesting sites of battles, famous homes, and everything under the sun. You can experience the glory of old Florida and relive some of the most exciting times in the history of Florida agriculture and ranching. As you can see, almost anyone, anywhere in Polk can find an adventure on a budget. The key is to start in your area and in your comfort level. In the next issue, we will introduce you to sites of each type. You won’t want to miss the amazing outdoors of Polk County. Imagine being able to enjoy hundreds – maybe even thousands – of adventures on a budget! So, we’ll see you next time on Polk on Pennies! WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
June 2013
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Morgan Carlton Leaving Their Mark
By Melissa Nichols
W
hen Morgan Carlton joined FFA her freshman year, she literally hit the ground running, and hasn’t stopped yet. This year’s Polk County Schools Silver Garland winner for the Vocational-Technology Education program has a list of accomplishments that few will ever be able to compete with. She is the elite, of the elite. Her legacy will live on in the record books for many years to come. Morgan is the daughter of Kyle and Tammy Carlton of Lakeland. She dreamed long before her high school days of becoming everything she could be in FFA. Morgan grew up spending her summers helping her dad around the pastures and visiting him at Kathleen High School’s Ag Department. Morgan thought that the Ag program offered a great challenge to her. Morgan has always been an overachiever and Ag has been no different. Morgan’s agricultural experience started through 4H. Following in her dad’s footsteps, Morgan decided she wanted to show a beef animal. At the age of 9, Morgan showed her first beef heifer. That year she decided she would rather start her “own” thing and got into the market hog projects. Morgan has raised hogs for both the Polk County Youth Fair and Florida State Fair ever since. She has won Reserve Champion and Senior Showmanship at the Polk County Youth Fair, and was the first place finalist in the Florida State Fair Champion of Champions- Market Hog Contest. Morgan is known to give advice when it comes to raising hogs and showmanship in order to help others excel. She has learned that when it comes to raising a winning animal it takes a lot of hard work, excellent feed regimens, and dedication. Morgan washed her hogs, clipped her hogs, and took care of them when they were sick. She said, “Raising a market animal is not only about making money, it is about completing your project and doing so properly.” Upon finally getting to join AG her freshman year at Kathleen High School, Morgan literally competed in every Career Development Event she could. She has made a career out of her C.D.E. goals and accomplishments. Her first huge accomplishment was receiving the Polk County Star Greenhand award her 9th grade year, which provided her the opportunity to attend the National FFA Convention. Morgan is no stranger to making it to the state level for a contest. She has been to a state contest eight times over the past four years. She has competed in the National FFA Forestry CDE (National Gold award recipient—3rd highest in the nation), National Land Judging where she was awarded a National Gold award for land and home site, and National Job Interview
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where she was awarded a National Bronze medal. She is a Florida FFA Proficiency finalist this year for Ag Communications and Ag Education. Morgan has competed in every CDE that was offered at Kathleen High School except Aquaculture and Ag Mechanics. Morgan’s peers see her as a leader. She is well respected and known to organize any event she is involved with. She always provides a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen, motivational comments, and advice on improving. Morgan is known to always have a huge smile on her face, and knows no stranger. Morgan has been an FFA officer all four years of her high school career. She was also the 2012-2013 Polk County Federation President and District President her junior year. Many people recognize Morgan for being an announcer at the Polk County Youth Fair during various youth events. This is just one of the many public speaking events Morgan has learned to help with. When asked what FFA has done for her, Morgan replied “FFA has shaped me into who I am, it has taught me lifelong skills that I will use in whichever career path I take. I have developed lifelong friendships, learned leadership skills and responsibility. If I had it to do all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing.” Morgan Carlton is not just a kid who has put all her time into AG, she is a well-diversified young adult who has spent equal time focusing on her GPA and college credit classes. Her current GPA is 4.49 and she is the salutatorian of her senior class. Morgan is graduating with 21 college credits completed towards her AA Degree. Morgan plans to attend Hillsborough Community College to finish her Associates in Arts Degree. She then hopes to attend the University of Florida to earn a degree in Agriculture. When she reflects over the past four years there are a few moments that stand out to her more than any other. She remembers being announced 3rd highest individual in the country at the National Forestry contest. It showed her that no matter how high you set your dreams and goals they can be achieved with hard work and determination. She feels that all her accomplishments would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the support of her Ag teachers Kyle Carlton (dad, friend, and critic) and Keitha Hall (who is like a second mom), her mom Tammy and sisters Shelby and Madison, who have been there to help with long practices, late night study sessions, and a ton of moral support, her Grandparents, Charles and Geri Carlton, who have been a great source of wisdom and advice, and her many friends who have been there through the greatest journey of her life! WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Wes Fussell Leaving Their Mark
W
es Fussell has made a name for himself in FFA, in the show ring, and in the beef industry. These accomplishments seem like they would belong to someone much older than 18 years of age, but then again most 18 year old boys haven’t spent their entire lives around cattle doing what it takes to know them through and through. Wes is the son of Mike and Marie Fussell of Bartow and he is representing Polk County in the Star Farmer Contest this year. Wes’s story goes back five generations of cattle ranching in Florida. As a baby, before he was able to walk, Wes was often seen with his dad out feeding cattle. His interest in cattle was literally born into him. One of his first outfits was a onesie that said, “My Grandma loves me and Angus Cattle.” At the young age of 8 (which is also the minimum age that kids are allowed to show cattle through 4H) Wes went to the back pasture, picked out a heifer and decided he was going to follow in his dad’s footsteps by showing beef animals. This heifer just didn’t make a good show animal, her disposition was less than ideal for a young boy in the show ring. The following year Wes’s nana, Gloria Fussell, gave him a commercial heifer that had a much better personality and this was Wes’s first show cow. Wes’s life in the show ring has been a whirlwind of success ever since his first show cow. He has had ten Grand Champion trophies and eight Reserve Grand Champion trophies at the Polk County Youth Fair with Angus Cattle. Wes has placed in Showmanship multiple times and this year he was the Grand Champion Steer Carcass winner for the Open Steer show. Wes has developed a herd of cattle that started with that initial heifer that was given to him, and through hard work and good money management, Wes now has a herd that is 17 Registered Angus and 6 commercial cattle strong. Wes is also very excited that he is able to be a Beef Producer for this year’s Polk County Youth Fair Commercial Market Steer Contest. It has been a dream of his to be able to see his animals in the ring being shown by kids from all over Polk County. Wes reflected back over the last ten years and said that his time in FFA has only been four years, but he credits FFA to helping him in many ways. When Wes arrived at Bartow Senior in 2008 he WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
By Melissa Nichols
was a shy young man, who didn’t talk very much. He never liked meeting new people and definitely wasn’t interested in talking in front of a room full of people. This shy young boy has grown into a young man who is the current Polk County Federation Vice President and has been Secretary of the Bartow FFA for three consecutive years. He has competed in multiple Career Development Events such as Forestry, Livestock Judging, Opening and Closing and Quiz bowl. Most notably for Wes, and one of the memories he is most fond of, is Tractor Driving. Wes always wanted to beat his dad’s record for the Tractor Driving CDE. After two years of attempting to beat his dad’s record, the third time was the charm for Wes who won Districts and went to the State Tractor Driving contest where he placed in the top five. His trophy now sits along with his Dad’s at Bartow Senior’s Ag Department. Wes’s accomplishments haven’t been confined to the Ag Department at Bartow Senior. He has also excelled in his academics by earning a 3.666 GPA. He is also very involved with ROTC at his school and has won multiple awards over the last few years. This year at the State Convention in Orlando (June 11th-14th) Wes will find out if he is the Star Farmer for the State of Florida and his ranking for Beef Proficiency Finalist. Wes was asked how he was able to accomplish all of this and maintain his GPA. He said over the years he has had a lot of support from his family, his mom Marie Fussell is also his Ag teacher. He is grateful for the support his parents, grandparents, Roy and Gloria Fussell, and his brother Reed have given him. Wes said “they have been side by side with me feeding cattle, helping with record keeping, and even helping pull a calf that was stuck during birth.” From the shy young boy who walked into Bartow Senior four years ago to the highly respected young man who recently walked across the stage to accept his diploma, Wes has definitely changed a lot. He will be going on to Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Georgia for his Associate’s Degree in Diversified Agriculture. He then plans to attend the University of Florida to obtain his Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science.
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Florida Rose Apple By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
T
he rose apple is a tropical fruit grown exclusively in southern Florida and is harvested in June and July. Shaped like a bell or a pear, the rose apple is not an apple, but actually a berry. This fruit varies in color from red, pink, or white to purple or pale green. The flavor is descried as most similar to a snow pear or a cross between apple and watermelon. Because of its high water concentration, the wax apple is very juicy and its flavor is mildly sweet with a flowery fragrance and crisp texture. This fruit is a member of the Myrtaceae family, which includes guava. Other names for this beautiful fruit include wax jambu, java apple, love apple, wax apple, cloud apple, water apple, bell fruit, plum rose, Malabar plum, makopa, and chomphu. The skin is edible, while the seeds in the hollow cavity are not. Nutritional Profile According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one medium wax jambu (100 g) contains 25 calories, 0.6 g of protein, 0.3 g of fat, 5.7 g of carbohydrate, and 0.5 g of fiber. It also provides 37% of the Daily Recommended Value (% DV) for Vitamin C, 7% for Vitamin A, 4% for potassium and niacin, 3% for calcium, and 2% for riboflavin. Rose apples also contain notable amounts of phosphorus, magnesium, thiamin, copper, and manganese. Antioxidants Florida rose apples are bursting with vitamins A and C, diseasefighting antioxidants, which neutralize destructive free radicals in the body. When healthy cells are damaged they are more susceptible to disease and certain types of cancer, and antioxidants may help slow the progression of conditions like asthma, arthritis, and colon cancer. Diets that contain fruits high in antioxidants, including rose apples and other fruits and vegetables, are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and multiple types of cancer. Vitamin C Rose apples are a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant which has many important functions in the body. Eating foods high in vitamin C significantly raises the amount of iron your body absorbs, which is a good way to prevent anemia. Vitamin C also supports the body’s immune system in its ability to fight infections and viruses, and may possibly shorten the duration and intensity of a cold. Additionally, this vitamin is involved in keeping capillaries, gums, and skin healthy and supple. 38
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Niacin Niacin, which is also called nicotinic acid or vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a variety of important roles in the body. Niacin may be best known as a “natural” supplement to treat high cholesterol, and has been shown to decrease triglycerides and LDL cholesterol (the bad type). Along with the other B vitamins, niacin, helps the body convert carbohydrates, protein, and fats from food into usable energy for the body. The B vitamins are necessary to maintain the health of the nervous system, liver, and skin. Additionally, this vitamin is needed in the production of hormones. Research studies have shown that people with a high niacin intake from food may have a decreased risk of atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and cataracts. How to select and store Select rose apples that feel firm and are free of bruises or broken skin. Handle gently because they bruise easily. Since rose apples are delicate, they are best eaten as soon as they are harvested. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to several days. Rinse under cool running water before eating or preparing. How to enjoy Rose apples are delicious eaten out of hand, or made into jellies, jam, preserves, or sauces. Other ways to enjoy this tropical fruit are: • Stew with sugar or poach in sugar water for a simple dessert • Slice and add to fruit salad or platter • Boil to make a sauce to flavor water or other beverages or to spoon over yogurt or ice cream • Chop and add to cereal or yogurt • Use in pies, crisps, or other desserts Enjoy this uniquely beautiful, juicy fruit during Florida’s peak season today. Selected References http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/rose_apple.html http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/rose-apple-nutrition-selection-storage
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RECIPES Cantaloupe Crostini
Recipes Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture
INGREDIENTS
INGREDIENTS 1/2 large French baguette 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 cup herbed goat cheese 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced 3 cups cantaloupe, diced
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cut baguette into 1/2 inch-thick slices and brush each with olive oil. Toast bread on a baking sheet until golden brown. Spread cheese on toasted bread. Top each with cucumber slices then cantaloupe. Serve immediately. 40
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Salad 2 cups chicken cooked, shredded 2 cups fresh blueberries, rinsed and dried 1 cup celery, sliced 1 cup green grapes seedless, halved 1/2 cup pecans, chopped 3 cantaloupes, halved and seeded Dressing 1/2 cup low-fat mayonnaise 1/4 cup low-fat sour cream 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest grated 1 1/2 teaspoons natural sugar 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger root, ground kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
Preparation In a large bowl, combine chicken, blueberries, celery, grapes and pecans. In a small bowl, mix dressing ingredients. Pour over the chicken mixture and toss gently. Spoon into cantaloupe halves WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Top Honors ~ 3rd in the nation in Homesite and 9th in Land. Joseph Julian finished 5th overall in hopefully Land and 2nd in Homesite. have graced gardens literally for centuries, being used as To hold in moisture around your roses, and thwart the overall pro- Roses liferation of weeds, an organic mulch is recommended. As it decomposes, you'll replace the mulch, bearing in mind that even when your mulch disappears, you're building nutritious soil. Mulch makes weeding much easier, too. If you plan to use your roses as cut flowers, think about your intended arrangement and trim the roses length accordingly. Use larger blooms low in the container and use smaller blooms and buds at the top for height. Also, try to use odd numbers of flowers in your arrangement, as florists do. If you cut buds when they are too tight they'll probably refuse to open. Always make a clean cut with a sharp knife or cutting shears, trying to avoid a ragged cut for the sake of the plant.
ground covers, shrubs, vines, container and specimen plants, flowering almost year-round in central Florida. Roses appear in a plethora of colors and scents. They also come with a wide range of implications and situations. You may give them on the occasion of a sweetheart, the Prom, a proposal, an acceptance, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Grandparents Day, Boss' Day, Employees Day, Good Grades Day, Apology Day, the Kentucky Derby (Run for the Roses)...well, let's just say from birth to death, there's an occasion for roses.
Now that you know that there's no need for an excuse to give this beautiful flower, plan a garden plot for roses and bestow the splendor of the rose on some unsuspecting soul soon and Land 3—left to right: Morgan Carlton, Luisoften. Olivera, Joseph Julian, Michael Gary and Keitha Hall (Coach) These roses are in memory of my precious dad Nelson Lunn, athlete and great golfer, now playing through with his good friend Art, both having gone home on December 18th, 2012. You've love andpossible respect,snow dad. and strong winds. Rain dicted to ingot theall lowmy 30s, with Kathleen FFA Represents Florida in a Big Way suits were purchased for all as a precaution. Kathleen FFA took the State Championship in the 2013 Land Judging and Homesite Evaluation career development event on March On the morning of the contest the weather was not exactly favor22. This provided the team the opportunity to represent Florida in able for Floridians. The team met in the hotel lobby to follow the the national contest in Oklahoma City on May 2. The team, which pack to the undisclosed contest site, along with 122 other teams consisted of Joseph Julian, Luis Olivera, Morgan Carlton and Michael from across the nation, including Hawaii. After an hour car ride to Gary, who are all enrolled in Kathleen’s Academy of Natural ReAmber, Oklahoma, students were greeted by rain, 37º temperatures sources, had to learn many new factors in the short month between and winds of 35 miles an hour with gusts up to 50 miles per hour. the state contest and the national event. The event, unlikeweekly the state contest, is into aspraying sepa- toTeam members spent the next three hours competing in these bruSomenational roses will require fungicidal ordivided insecticidal tal conditions. Team member Morgan Carlton said, “The weather rate Land the Judging contest Homesite Contest,aspect so Florida parof rose care is maintain quality of theand plant. An important was so terrible I didn’t think I would be able to finish, but I knew ticipants were forced to compete in two separate contests under the proper management of fungal black spot. This disease would not be my state and coaches were counting on me so I worked through the time constraints of one event. The numbers assigned to various near as prevalent in states which lack our wet, humid climate. Begin toit.” The weather was so terrible the Homesite cards fell apart in slopes were different, students were forced to learn three new textreat roses when new growth emerges, continuing through the growingstudents’ hands, so they were forced to punch holes in their score tural classes, surface runoff had to be evaluated and students had season. One asset associated with shrub roses is that these low-mainte-cards instead of bubbling their answers. The Land cards were safe to learn new mechanical and vegetative practices for various land nance roses are resistant to black spot with very few or no sprays. since they were printed on waterproof paper. classes. In order to prepare, students met five and sometimes six days a week to get ready. Yet another fungal disease which is a threat in spring or late fall is pow-After showers and a nap, the team headed off to the National CowderyApril mildew, covers leaves and buds with aatpowdery On 30, which students metnew at Kathleen High School 3:00 amwhiteboy and Western Heritage Museum for the awards banquet. As the substance. disease rarely kills the plant but will damage and headedThis to the Tampa International Airport to catch an leaves early andbanquet began, officials announced that the Homesite contest would have to be scored by hand, so no results would be available until blooms. fight out. Once on the ground in Oklahoma, students and coaches the following week. Florida was 9th in the nation in the Land Judgchecked in and headed straight to the practice fields where they could specialists fromencounter the Oklahoma Soilcaterpillars, Conservation Othermeet pestswith which you might include aphids,ing event out of 123 teams. Joseph Julian was the 5th highest indito helporanswer questions they may of have. The team thrips spiderany mites. The best hedge protection for members your roses isvidual in the contest, beating out over 500 competitors from across quickly learned of that Florida soils from are thethe nation. The team was awarded with medallions and a trophy. early detection infestations. Butand thatthose should be the easyMidwest considering quite different from each other, so they practiced as long as they close scrutiny you'll afford your beauties once you fall in love withThe following day the team visited the Oklahoma City National Mecould students spent the office next two days in(best the field them. each You day. may As contact the extension for BMP's manage-morial and Museum, followed by a stop at the state capital. Students preparing for the contest, their coaches spent time studying the ment practices) for these and other pest problems you may encounter. also toured the Oklahoma Stockyards, where they learned a little weather. The weather on May 2, the day of the contest, was pre-
Kathleen FFA Land Judging Teams Take Top Honors at State Contest!
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Land 1—left to right: Morgan Carlton, Michael Gary, Luis Olivera, Joseph Julian
about the beef industry in the state. After a late flight back to Florida, the students and coaches were ready for some much deserved rest. The Homesite contest results were released and the team was ecstatic to learn they finished 3rd out of 52 Homesite teams and Joseph Julian was the 2nd highest individual in the contest. Kathleen truly represented Florida well on the national stage. Joseph Julian said, “I knew if I stayed focused through the cold weather, I’d learned all the skills I needed to be successful. I’m just really glad we represented Florida so well in this contest.”
Land 2—left to right: Joseph Julian, Michael Gary, Luis Olivera, Morgan Carlton
This learning experience was made possible by the following partners: The School Board of Polk County, Lane Construction, Kathleen Lions Club, Linder Industrial Machinery, Wirtgen America, The Florida FFA Foundation, Black Rock Asphalt, Universal Engineering, Moody Engineering, and the Kathleen community. On behalf of the team, coaches and Kathleen Administration, thank you for your continued support of our students.
It’s a Peach! Haines City Sr FFA By Laura Hill
When you think of Florida what do you think of? Oranges? Blueberries? How about peaches? When you think of peaches you typically don’t think they can grow in our hot Florida weather, but thanks to a new variety these wonderful fruits can be grown in our own backyard. Due to the incurable disease called Greening, Florida’s citrus trees are producing less fruit and are dying, which caused farmers to bring in a new crop, which is exactly what Haines City SR FFA did. Haines city FFA recently put in 175 peach trees right at their school. The students have worked hard and would like to thank Jason Watts (Florida Best Farms), Tommy Thayer (Southern Citrus Nurseries LLC), and Richard Chilton (Chilton Groves INC), Bill Snively (Aquatic Weed Management), Brad Weihrauch (Ralph White Company), Michael Hill, Bunky Hill, and Jimmy Dale Farmer (Cripple Creek Guides). Thank you to everyone that has helped and Haines City SR FFA are excited to be on the way to be producing commercial peaches. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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ANIMALS & NEEDS
MASSEY FERGUSON GC2300 4 X 4 hydro stat transmission, 2702 hrs. $4,750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
CECIL BREEDING FARM Full service thoroughbred farm from foaling to the track. Broodmare care. Investment opportunities. 863-899-9620 ANIMAL CONTROL Complete Nuisance/Destructive Wildlife Removal & Management! Wild hogs, coyotes, raccoons, opossum, armadillo, squirrels, bobcats, etc. (licensed & insured professional Services) 863-287-2311 ANIMAL & BIRDCAGES Equipment serving the fur bearing animal & exotic bird industry! Cages built to order. Wire by roll or foot. (813) 752-2230. Call Don Ammerman. www.ammermans.com Swaps July 14, 2013 and December 1, 2013 CHICKEN MANURE FOR SALE Dry and available immediately! Call Tim Ford or Danny Thibodeau 863-439-3232
BAD BOY CZT50 Zero turn 26hp Kawasaki. 138 hrs., Warranty. $4,995 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 KUTOTA M105 2 wheel drive, cab tractor with a/c, 1700 hours. $23,000 call Rodney 863-581-9396 USED EQUIPMENT Mowers, disk, box blades & disk plows. Call Alvie TODAY! 813-759-8722 MASSEY FERGUSON 65 Diesel tractor with loader. $3,250 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 MASSEY FERGUSON 210 2wd., diesel tractor. $3,750 Call Alvie. 813-759-8722
DOVE HUNTS Lithia area limited number of memberships still available. Call Fish Hawk Sporting Clays. 813-689-0490.
FOR SALE KITCHEN CABINETS All wood kitchen cabinets. Call Tedd 813-752-3378
BUILDING SUPPLIES DOUBLE INSULATED THERMO PANE Starting at $55. Call Ted 813-752-3378 WINDOW SCREENS We make window screens of all sizes available in different frame colors. Call Ted 813-752-3378 T1-11 4 X 8 SHEET 5/8-INCH THICK B-grade $22.95. Call Ted 813-752-3378
14KT GOLD AMMOLITE RING Unique Multi-colored fossil gem with unique mounting. Size 8 $250 or best offer. Call 863-370-8891 TOP GRADE TANZANITE RING 18KT GOLD Top grade, 18kt. Beautiful piece of jewelry. 1.05kt round nice blue gem with channel side diamonds. Size 7-1/2 $1,100 Call 863-370-8891
NEW DOORS CLOSEOUT SPECIAL!!! $75 to $295. Call Ted today 813-752-3378
JOBS
MOBILE HOME TUBS Metal brand new in box 54” Mobile Home Tubs. Call Ted 813-752-3378 $145.00
FARM EQUIPMENT MAHINDRA 8560 40 actual hrs., 2wd, diesel, 83hp, shuttle shift, warranty. $22,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
MASSEY HARRIS FERGUSON NO. 16 PACER With belly mower $1950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
FORD 3400 INDUSTRIAL TRACTOR With loader, skid steer attached. $6,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 46
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MISC. PRIVATE INVESTOR Will consider any situation. 813-986-9141
REAL ESTATE 40 ACRES Plant City Strawberry Field. For lease or purchase. Call 813-833-7522 FOR SALE – 45 ACRES VACANT LAND (Pasco County) 45 acres are comprised of gently rolling hills with big trees & solid ground. A great setting for residential development. To the east of the property is a 60 acre parcel (Lake Gilbert) that adds significant aesthetic value to the 45 acres. Zoning: AR (Agricultural-Rural) Call Heidi Cecil for more information 863-899-9620 FOR LEASE 24 Acre Farm 5" Well Gulf City & Willis Road. Ruskin FL. Call or email Lee@leepallardyinc.com 813-355-6274 MOUNTAIN HOME Located in Ellijay, GA. Private log sided home, 2 berm, 2 baths, kitchen, dining, family room area, full partially completed basement, loft, front porch, back deck, A/C, furnished on 6 acres. Adjoing 4 acres available. $195,000 863-287-3111. 1 hour from Atlanta. 2.66 ACRE NURSERY FOR SALE OR LEASE N. Lakeland with 1,000 sq ft frame house, 2 sheds, irrigation throughout. Call Bruce 863-698-0019 FOR LEASE 15 acre for hay. State Road 70 & Vernon Road. Manatee County. Call or email Lee@leepallardyinc.com 813-355-6274 JANE BAER REALTY Looking for that mountain getaway home? We have what you are looking for. Check out our website at www.janebaerrealty.com or call us toll free 800-820-7829. We are located in Blairsville GA, North Georgia Mountains!
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNT MANAGER In The Field Magazine is looking for independent account managers to join our team! Please contact Danny@inthefieldmagazazine.com or call 813-759-6909.
YANMAR 186 TRACTOR 2WD, diesel, belly mower. $2,750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
KUBOTA L345 TRACTOR 34hp, 2wd. $4,250 Call Alvie (813)759-8722
CONTRIBUTING WRITER Write about events in your community. Immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Paid per article. Responsibilities include covering community events and taking pictures. Email your resume to sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com
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LAWN EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES BRAND NEW HUSTLER RAPTOR Zero Turn Mower. 52" cut, 23 hp. Kawasaki engine, 3 year warranty. $2,999 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 RUBBER MULCH All colors, buy 10 bags, get 1 FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted 813-752-3378
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