Heartland In The Field Magazine - March 2011

March 2011

The Legacy Continues

Karen Berry, Bill & Rhonda Glisson, Sarah Holt

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO • GLADES CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE • HENDRY March 2011 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 1

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 3

From the Managing Editor

Sarah Holt

March

VOL. 3 • ISSUE 6

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

Cover Story

Tel: 813-708-3661 Office: 813-759-6909 Fax: 813-754-4690

March 2011

Many people I know have jobs that last eight hours a day, five days a week. They get up, go to work and at the end of the day they go home, leaving business behind them.

Then you meet people who are passionate about what they do. Those involved in agriculture definitely fall in to this category. Honestly, why would you chose agriculture if it wasn’t your passion? It definitely isn’t a 9-5, Monday through Friday way to make a living. Those involved in agriculture, eat, breath and sleep it. It isn’t a job. It is a way of life. They are the people that many envy because of their zest for their profession.

At In The Field magazine we are very passionate about agriculture and teaching those far removed from the family farm just what it takes to make a meal.

With that being said, we are excited to welcome Rhonda Glisson, a person of conviction and honesty, who is also passionate about agriculture, as Co-Publisher of the Heartland edition of In The Field. For more information on her, read this month’s cover story. We are sure you will enjoy learning more about her.

To learn about others who are passionate about agriculture, check out this month’s issue. You will meet Matt Warren, our Young Farmer/Rancher, Alexis Stinson, who is following her dreams, the Bryant Family and Heart of Florida Greenhouses, our Woman in Ag, Darlene Phypers, and much more.

We are always looking for article ideas. If you know of someone or something interesting, let us know.

A very special thank you to our advertisers. You allow us to continue to cover what is growing in the Heartland.

Until Next Month, The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you.

Publisher

Rhonda Glisson Karen Berry

The Legacy Continues

Karen Berry, Bill & Rhonda Glisson, Sarah Holt

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

1

Bill & Rhonda Glisson Continue the Legacy Pg. 32 6 Farm Bureau Letter 12 Grub Station Lightsey’s Restaurant 14 Whipping Bowl 16 Business UpFront Sorrell’s Grove Equipment 20 Rocking Chair Chatter 24 Farm Bureau Field Agent Report

Sarah Holt

Senior Managing Editor and Writer

30 Young Rancher/Farmer Matt Warren 42 Uganda Needs You 46 Woman in Agriculture Darlene Phypers 57 Citrus Update: GAPS

In The Field® Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and other local venues within Hardee, Highlands, Charlotte, DeSoto and Okeechobee counties. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes members of the Farm Bureau and those with ag classification on their land. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to Heartland in the Field, P.O. Box 3183, Plant City, Florida 33563 or you are welcome to email them to rhonda@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-708-3661.

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

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

®

Senior Managing Editor and Writer Sarah Holt

Operations Manager Lizzette Sarria

Office Manager Bob Hughens

Sales Manager

Danny Crampton

Sales

Nick Massey Karen Berry Chass Bronson W. Russell Hancock Ron Brown

Creative Director Amey Celoria

Designer

Juan Carlos Alvarez

Staff Writers

Al Berry James Frankowiak Jack McConoughey Robbi Sumner

Contributing Writers Lindsey Sebring Joanna Glisson-Lamarra Ginny Mink Ginger Neal

Photography

Jim Davis W. Russell Hancock www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 5

HIGHLANDS COUNTY FARM BUREAU 6419 US Highway 27 S., Sebring, FL 33876 863.385.5141

HIGHLANDS COUNTY FARM BUREAU

CHARLOTTE/DESOTO COUNTY FARM BUREAU

HARDEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU

6419 US Highway 27 S. Sebring, FL 33876

1278 SE US Highway 31 Arcadia, FL 34266

1017 US Highway 17 N Wauchula, FL 33873

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

Phone: 863. 385.5141 Fax: 863.385.5356 Web site:

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

Phone: 863.494.3636

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

Charlotte Line: 941.624.3981 Fax: 863.494.4332

Phone: 863. 773.3117

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

www.highlandsfarmbureau.com

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Greetings: Finally, greener days are on the horizon. It has been another long and cold winter with our first freeze of many beginning in early December. It was a difficult and expensive year for farmers trying to keep their livestock in good body condition and their crops from freezing.

Highlands County Farm Bureau was a major contributor to our youth this winter. Our board decided to become a field sponsor for Lake Placid Little League at Lake June Park. As a result of our donation, I was asked to throw the first pitch at their opening weekend ceremony in honor of Highlands County Farm Bureau. We also decided to donate to the Highlands County Fair. This donation was used to purchase t-shirts for all of the exhibitors and the buckles for all of the winners. Our board has always and will continue to invest in the youth of our community realizing they are the future of our industry.

Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Chairman, Doug Miller continued to build our local YF&R chapter by coordinating a meeting at Palmetto Creek Farms. Jim Wood, owner and Highlands County Farm Bureau board member, gave everyone an educational tour of his farm and processing facility and then treated us to some of his homegrown pork. Thank you, Jim and Doug, for a successful event.

We are expecting a busy spring. Our Annual Cracker Shoot fundraiser will be held on April 16 at Quail Creek Sporting Clays in Okeechobee. Please mark your calendar and consider being a sponsor of the event. Also right around the corner is Florida Farm Bureau Legislative Days on March 21 and 22 in Tallahassee, FL. This is a great opportunity to voice your concerns about your livelihood to our legislature. If you are interested in going you can contact the Highlands County Farm Bureau office for more information.

Marty Wohl President

DIRECTORS FOR 2010-2011 Sam Bronson • Steve Farr Carey Howerton • Charles Lanfier Mike Milicevic • Lindsey Sebring Mike Waldron • Jim Wood Jeff Williams • Frank Youngman County Secretary Janet Menges

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS Agency Manager Chad D. McWaters Agents Joseph W. Bullington

Highland County Farm Bureau

HIGHLANDS COUNTY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Marty Wohl, President; Drew Phypers, Secretary; Scott Kirouac, Treasurer; Sam Bronson, Carey Howerton, April Butler, Andy Tuck, Mike Waldron, Jim Wood, Doug Miller, Mike Milicevic, Steve Farr, Lindsey Sebring, Charles Lanfier 6

President..............................Marty Wohl Vice President ................ Scott Kirouac Secretary ......................... Drew Phypers Treasurer ............................. Doug Miller

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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6419 US Highway 27 S. Sebring, FL 33876 (863) 385-5141 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

President............... Jim Selph Vice President ..... Jeffrey Adams Sec./Treasurer ..... Bryan K. Beswick

DIRECTORS FOR 2009-2010 Jim Brewer • John Burtscher Mike Carter • Steve Fussell Richard E. Harvin John Pfeil • Ann H. Ryals Mac Turner • Matt Harrison Ken Harrison County Secretary Summer Chavarria

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS Agency Manager Cameron N. Jolly Agents Dawn A. Hines 1278 SE US Highway 31 Arcadia, FL 34266 (863) 494-3636 March 2011

Fax: 863.773.2369

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

DIRECTORS FOR 2009-2010 Joseph B. Cherry • John Platt Corey Lambert • Daniel H. Smith Steve A. Johnson • Bill Hodge David B. Royal • Greg L. Shackelford Bo Rich Susan Chapman County Secretary

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS Agency Manager N. Jay Bryan Agent George L. Wadsworth, Jr. 1017 US Hwy 17 N. Wauchula, FL 33873 (863) 773-3117 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 7

Hardee Ranch Supply, Inc. Hardee Ranch Supply, Inc. is proud to announce the Grand Opening of their new location at 1301 Hwy 17 S, Wauchula. The celebration will take place Saturday, March 12 from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. Grand Opening activities include door prizes all day, entertainment, refreshments, a bounce house and drawings for kids, and much more. The first 75 customers get a choice of 10 free chicks, a baby rabbit, or they can fill a bucket with non sale items and get 15% off, while supplies last.

Hardee Ranch Supply Inc. opened in 1984 and served their customers in the same location for over 26 years. Having a strong presence in the community, the owners of Hardee Ranch Supply, Inc. gladly support their friends, families, customers and organizations in the area such as Habitat for Humanity, Rest

Index of

Haven, and Reality Ranch. Hardee Ranch Supply, Inc. was able to pay for the last home built by Habitat for Humanity in Bowling Green. Also, donating feed to the 4-H and FFA chapters and supporting the kids by purchasing their steers and hogs at the fair is a yearly contribution made by the store. “The community supports us, so we support them,” said Ronnie Durrance, Owner and Manager.

The manager, Ronnie Durrance, and all of the employees would like to give a special thank you to their customers for their support over the years and are looking forward to serving them in the new facility. Without them they would not be where they are today and they are looking forward to serving them with the same great friendly service.

Advertisers

Advantage Floor Coverings.................. 61 Andy Thornal Company..................... 41 Arcadia Rodeo.................................... 25 Arcadia Stockyard............................... 27 Big ‘T’ Tire......................................... 13 Bill Jarrett Ford Mercury Inc............... 55 Blinds ASAP....................................... 37 Camper Corral of Highlands County.. 61 Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction............. 31 Central States Enterprises, LLC........... 11 CF Industries, Inc................................ 17 Cowboy Way Agricultural Services...... 61 Creech Construction, Inc.................... 60 Dennis Crews (Jarrett Ford)................ 60 Desoto Machine, Inc........................... 51 Desoto/Charlotte Cty Farm Bureau....... 7 Desoto County Pioneer Day................ 44 Edgewood Landscape & Nursery........ 61 Florida Fence Post Co.......................... 45 Florida Hospital................................. 45 GHC Construction............................. 60 Gilbert Chevrolet................................ 23 Glade & Grove Supply Co................... 29

Glisson’s Animal Supply, Inc................ 61 Goin’ Postal (Sebring)......................... 61 Griffin’s Carpet................................... 31 Hardee County Farm Bureau................. 7 Hardee Feed.......................................... 9 Heartland Gold.................................. 45 Helena Chemical-Tampa Division....... 29 Hicks Oil Company, Inc...................... 49 Highland Cty Farm Bureau................. 63 Highland Cty Farm Bureau Thank You... 23 Highlands Cty Farm Bureau.................. 7 ITFM Strawberry Festival Contest......... 5 James Webb........................................ 51 Laye’s Tire Service................................. 3 Lehman Auto Body Service Center...... 49 Lightsey Seafood Restaurant............... 64 Michael G. Kirsch, DDS, MS............... 60 Miller’s Central Air............................. 33 Mosaic-Heartland.............................. 25 Musselman’s Appliance & TV............ 55 Okeechobee Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep...... 15 Okeechobee Rodeo............................. 43 Peace River Citrus Products, Inc.......... 51

Precision Pump Service........................ 21 Precision Citrus Hedging..................... 21 Prestige Homes................................... 33 Quail Creek........................................ 51 Rhizogen.............................................. 2 Rustic Style Furniture & Cabins.......... 27 Sherco, Inc.......................................... 51 Sorrell’s Grove.................................... 41 Southern Excavation, Inc..................... 55 Sunshine Family Dentistry................... 60 Superior Muffler................................. 61 Superior Water Works......................... 53 The American Shed Company............. 37 The Andersons, Inc............................. 53 Tree Locators, Inc............................... 47 Triangle Hardware.............................. 60 Trinkle, Redman, Swanson, Coton, Davis & Smith.................................... 37 Wauchula State Bank.......................... 53 Wicks, Brown, Williams & Co............. 53 Wild Turkey Tavern............................. 60 Wright Farms...................................... 51

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

InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, FL 33563-0042 All Entries must be received by March 15, 2011.

Winner will be notified by phone.

You Too Can Be A Winner - Enter Now! 8

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Come andh us! it celebratelaw d you did!

You’ll be g

p ours 7a - 4 Extended H rday Only This Satu

Many

T GRdeEalA s available!

NING We Load Your Feed and Hay GRAND OIPTEIES ACTIeVs All Day Delivery Available iz • Door Pr ment • Entertain ments s • Refresh use for Kid o H e c n u • Bo s for Kids • Drawing More • So Much

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of sent to win age to win. , with valid ID. May not be

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own.

While Supplies Last

Hardee Ranch Supply Inc

1301 Hwy 17 S • Wauchula, FL 33873 Phone: 863-773-4322 STORE HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7a - 5:30p; Sat. 7a - 1p

Sale Prices Good Saturday, March 12th Only! (unless specified otherwise)

Not responsible for typographical errors. Some items are limited to stock on hand and will be available while quantities last. Some items require special ordering.

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 9

4-H Club Happenings

Sunny Hop 4-H Club

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Sunny Hop 4-H Club of Sebring has been very busy this year. They have been showing their chickens, rabbits, and hogs at the Highlands County Fair. They are also very involved in community service in the Highlands County area. On February 10, the club visited Kenilworth Care and Rehab Center. This visit was one of several community service projects that they completed throughout the year. Members of “Sunny Hop Club� made Valentine’s Cards and cookies to share with the residents. They also shared 4-H Projects. Two of the members gave presentations.

Julia VanFleet, 12, gave a presentation about her Blue Butt hog, Olivia. She shared some of the details involved in raising her first

10 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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hog, as well as some great pictures. The residents thoroughly enjoyed hearing about her hog! Megan Sowards, 12, gave a speech about the importance of 4H and shared a bit about her rabbit, “Magic.� She brought magic with her, as well as her small dog.

The residents were so excited to pet the animals. While there, “Sunny Hop Club� stated their 4-H Pledge and discussed what each H stands for. Sunny Hop members said, “We were there to spread a little love and cheer!� Their next community service event will be on March 26 at the Southern Lifestyle center. The club will bring their chicken and rabbits to share with the residents for a Hoe-Down.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

"MUPTJEÂĽ *OTFDU (SPXUI 3FHVMBUPS JT B SFHJTUFSFE USBEFNBSL PG 8FMMNBSL *OUFSOBUJPOBM .BEF JO 6 4 "

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 11

Janie Arnold & Judy Wilson

by Jack McConoughey

Daylon & Brittney

Everyday in Wauchula, friends, families, working locals, and quite a few travelers come together at a place called Double J Restaurant. Located on the south side of Wauchula, on Highway 17, Double J Restaurant is known for their home cooked food and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant is named after the owners Janie Arnold and Judy Wilson. The two ladies were both born and raised in Hardee County. In 1989, Janie decided to open a restaurant with Judy who was working for Prudential Insurance.

With the perfect location, the ladies were able to operate their restaurant with Judy having her insurance office in the back. In 1998, Judy retired from Prudential to work with Janie full time. They decided to cook the food themselves knowing the food would be just the way they wanted it served.

Janie cooks breakfast while Judy cooks lunch. Whether it’s Judy’s peach cobbler or one of Janie’s cakes, customers are sure to leave room for dessert. The restaurant offers daily specials, serving their famous chicken and dumplings on Sunday and Thursday. “We’re best known for our fried chicken,” says Janie and Judy. When Double J Restaurant comes up in any conversation, their fried chicken is always mentioned. Their mouthwatering quarter or half pound hamburgers are fresh made. They also have breakfast specials available from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

The ladies take good care of their customers, too! They have a calendar filled with birthdays of regular customers. Janie makes her delicious chocolate cake for the person celebrating a birthday and they have a party in the restaurant during lunch. Judy and Janie also take time to sit and talk with customers.

A three year cancer survivor, Janie takes time to sit and talk with customers who are battling cancer or have had cancer. Judy, who was Worthy Grand Matron of Florida, and Janie are both members of the Eastern Star. “We have lots of Eastern Star members that come here to eat,” said Judy. Though most of their customers are local working people, they have their share of travelers who hear of the restaurant from family and friends.

Double J Restaurant is open Sunday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and opened on Saturdays for breakfast from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The ladies will also open the restaurant in the evenings for special parties, such as class reunions, and tocater special events.

Be sure to stop in to Double J Restaurant to visit with Janie and Judy and have some delicious food. While there, you will also be greeted by two of their long time servers, Daylan and Brittney.

Double J is located at 1341 Highway 17 S., Wauchula, and can be reached by phone at 863.767.0771.

12 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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1-800-330-3145 For 24-Hour Roadside Service Call: 1-863-452-2031

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 13

Okeechobee Submitted by Connie Celoria

Carrot Casserole

• We Specialize in Heavy Duty Truck Repairs

Ingredients

2 cups cooked carrots, mashed while hot (I use a 1lb bag of baby cut carrots, steamed.)

1 stick melted butter 1 cup sugar 3 tbsp all purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 3 eggs well beaten dash of cinnamon

• We Service All Makes and All Models!

• Fleet Discounts Available

Preparation

Mix ingredients in the order given. Pour into a greased 2 qt baking dish.

Bake 15 minutes at 400° then reduce heat to 350° and bake for another 45 minutes.

• Open Saturday for your convenience.

Old Fashioned Strawberry Shortcake

with this ad!

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Ingredients

½ cup soft unsalted butter 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 2 cups sifted all purpose flour ½ tsp salt 1 tsp baking powder

10% off repairs

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Preparation

Place all ingredients in a large bowl and mix with hands into a smooth dough. (Can use paddle attachment on Kitchen Aid). Butter and line the bottom of a 10” round cake pan with waxed paper and press dough evenly into pan. Bake on 350° for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.

863-357-0500

www.okeechobeedcj.com

To serve this cake, I cut it into wedges and split them in half horizontally and put sweetened strawberries and sweetened whipped cream on top. I usually make two and when the berries are gone, we just eat the cake plain. It is so yummy!

14 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep | 4224 US Hwy 441 S. | Okeechobee, FL. 34974

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 15

Business UpFront: SORRELL’S GROVE CARE

Phosphate Operations “Helping Farmers Feed a Hungry World”

by Jack McConoughey

In the mid 1940s, brothers Hershell, Howard, and Robert Sorrells started buying citrus from central Florida to bring back to Atlanta. The brothers eventually moved to Arcadia to continue their career in the citrus industry by establishing Sorrells Bros. Fruit Company and Sorrells Bros. Packing Company.

During the 70s, the juice concentrate business created a boom in the citrus industry leading the brothers to form Sorrells Groves. With the companies established and prospering, both Howard and Hershell went on to serve as chairmen on the Citrus Commission, with Howard being inducted into the Citrus Hall of Fame.

Steve Sorrells bought the packing company from Howard in 1991. Using H2A Labor, Sorrells brings in three to four hundred guest workers from Mexico. “It’s a good way to get legal labor and more efficient workers,” explains Steve. The past year, Sorrell’s has been voted the number one labor camp in Florida.

With three main companies, Sorrells Groves, Sorrells Grove Care Inc., and Sorrells Citrus, six to seven thousand acres are cared for while approximately five million boxes are harvested

every year, covering the counties of Polk, Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Hillsborough. Sorrells has become the second largest citrus grower in Manatee County.

Confronted by people who needed grove work done, Sorrells Grove Care started in 1981 taking care of about 1000 acres.

Today they take care of about six to seven thousand acres. Some of the services include installation and maintenance of irrigation systems, mowing, herbiciding, spreader service, spraying, hedging and topping, discing, tree removal and much more! Sorrells Grove Care proudly takes on complete care to minor jobs.

For information on Sorrells Citrus, please contact Justin Sorrells, Manager, at (863) 494-3066. In May 2010, Sorrells Grove Care Inc. hired Kevin Sanders, a recent graduate of Florida Southern College, as their Field Representative. For more information on Sorrells Grove Care Inc., please contact Kevin at (863) 990-3093. Additional information can be found on their website at: www.sorrellscitrus.com.

Please join CF Industries in supporting these community events:

Pioneer Park Days at Zolfo Springs March 2 – 6, 2011 – 7am to dusk www.hardeecounty.net/Pioneer

Friday Night Live! Mardi Gras Friday, March 18, 2011 – 5‐9 pm Main Street Heritage Park – Wauchula

Florida Strawberry Festival March 3 – 13, 2011 Plant City, Florida www.flstrawberryfestival.org

Hardee Boot Camp Ball April 9, 2011 – 6‐9 pm

Hardee County Civic Center Benefits the American Red Cross http://american.redcross.org/hardeebootcamp

Flashing a dazzling smile, Jaycee Pella, daughter of trail boss Louis Pella sets out on the 2010 “Hoofin’ It on Main Street” event sponsored by CF Industries. Riding on horseback, guests enjoyed open pastures, wooded pines, wildlife, lakes and streams on CF’s north pasture, a 20­year old reclamation site.

Presented in partnership and as a fundraiser for one of CF’s community partners, Main Street Wauchula, ”Hoofin’ It on Main Street” is set to repeat in November 2011. Plan now to saddle up and attend!

Kevin Sanders

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6209 N. County Road 663  Bowling Green, FL 33834  863-375-4321 www.cfindustries.com

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 17

FRESHWATER FISHING IN POLK COUNTY

By Captain Dick Loupe

BOAT LAUNCH PREPAREDNESS, SAFETY & ETIQUETTE This was this guy’s first boat and he was taking it to the lake, but he wasn’t quite sure of the correct procedure for launching a boat off a ramp. However, he figured it couldn’t be that difficult to do, so he stopped by his Union office for advice, and they just told him, “Don’t let the trailer get too deep in the water when you’re launching your boat.”

Well later on, he couldn’t understand what they meant by that, as he could barely get his trailer in the water! Here’s a picture worth a “thousand’ words!

motor, attaching to the trailer. There are a number of different types available at your local marine dealer or at Payes Trailer Parts located south of Lake Wales on Highway 60. Smaller motors have pins to raise the motor, but if you have a large motor, a motortoter is also a good idea because it greatly reduces the stress on the boat’s transom while towing. Put the gear shift in gear so your prop won’t be turning while going down the road, which can damage the bearings. Also, if you are trailering your boat on a long trip you should have a snug cover which will protect the inside of your boat and increase your gas mileage.

Boat Unloading

I’m not so sure that this actually happened that way but, whatever it was, I am sure that something went horribly wrong, which was most likely the result of an oversight.

Many people and organizations discuss boating safety, which generally refers to “on the water” activities. And, as important as that is, I would like to discuss an overlooked issue - proper boat launching procedures. As both a guide and a recreational angler, I frequent a lot of public boat ramps and have seen it done almost every way possible – some good, and some really bad.

First, the boater needs to have their trailer properly attached to their towing vehicle with a properly sized hitch ball to match the trailer tongue. It is a good idea to have a hitch lock to prevent theft. Safety chains should come from both sides of the trailer and attach to the bumper in case the trailer comes off of the hitch. You should have your trailer lights attached to the tow vehicle, whether towing day or night, making sure that everything works – running lights, brake lights, and turn signals. Although your boat is attached to your trailer by the winch strap, on longer hauls it is a good idea to attach the bow eye of the boat to the trailer with an additional mechanism, such as an adjustable double hook, and to have tie-down straps on the back of the boat, on either side of the

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Before lining up with the ramp, stop in a “pre-stage” area out of the way of those currently launching and do the following preparations: • Remove all tie-downs or ropes, motor pins or motor

toter, cover, and security mechanism from the bow eye, leaving the winch strap secured.

• Put the drain plug in securely.

• Place whatever items you are taking with you that have not already been put into the boat, such as a cooler, camera, towels, sunscreen, rods and reels, etc.

• Put the boat key into the ignition and make sure that your fuel bulb is taut.

• Check that your engine will start by turning it over till it does and then immediately turn it back off.

• Look at the ramp to assess the condition of the ramp, the length and steepness, and the water level.

• If you are not alone, determine who will back the boat and who will be in the boat, verifying what hand signals to use.

• If you are alone, do one of two things: 1) Have a long enough rope attached to the bow eye to be able to float your boat off and then pull it over to the dock or the bank so you can immediately pull your trailer off of the ramp, or 2) Ask another boater that is waiting to launch if he/she would be so kind as to help you.

Once you feel that you are thoroughly prepared, proceed to the ramp and, if all clear, line your vehicle and trailer up as straight as possible in line with the ramp. Back slowly using your side and rear view mirrors if possible. Remember, when you turn your vehicle’s tires one way, your trailer will aim the opposite way. Make adjustments gradually in small amounts for best results. Back the boat in just far enough for it to float, but where you can get to the

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bow without stepping into the water. Stop there so you can then detach the winch strap. Again, if you are alone and there is no one available to help, holding onto the rope that is tied to the bow eye, push the boat clear of the trailer and secure it either to the launch dock or to the shore. If you have someone in the boat, ask them to start the motor and then continue backing the boat gradually, being careful not to allow the trailer wheels to fall off the ramp, until the boat driver is able to back the boat clear of the trailer. Usually, this is when the trailer wheels just become submerged in the water. Once the boat is clear, gradually pull forward with the trailer and proceed to the trailer parking area, making sure that you park in the same fashion and alignment as everyone else. Put your vehicle’s keys away securely in a pocket before leaving land so as not to accidently drop them into the water.

Boat Loading Again, making sure that your vehicle keys are secure in a pocket before leaving the boat, pull your boat up to the launch dock or shoreline out of the way of launching boats. If the ramp is busy, get in line somewhere in the “pre-stage” area. When it is your turn, line up with the ramp in the same manner as you did for unloading.

Back the trailer into the water slowly until the wheels of the trailer are just barely submerged or, if you are not alone, at whatever degree your boat driver signals to you.

If you do have assistance, get out of the vehicle so you can assist the boat driver to align the boat onto the trailer, approaching it slowly but with enough speed to maintain direction. Once the boat meets up with the trailer’s hull supports the driver should slightly increase the throttle to cozy the bow up to the trailer’s bow stop. Once they meet, hook the winch strap and tighten securely.

If you are loading your boat by yourself, go get it and either drive it on yourself or, if you are not proficient with that procedure, use the bow rope to guide it onto the hull supports and, once aligned properly, pull out and attach the winch strap to the bow eye. Crank the winch until the boat is securely against the bow stop.

Slowly pull the boat out of the water up onto the ramp. If there is no other boat waiting to launch, you can stop once you have completely cleared the water. Otherwise, you should continue to pull out of the way of other launchers. Prepare your boat for towing by reattaching all tie-downs, ropes and security mechanisms, removing all items that may blow out, turning off all electronics, removing the plug, propping the motor up and putting it into gear. Make sure that your lights and safety chains are still attached. Also, check your trailer for any grass that may have become attached during launch to eliminate transfer to another lake.

Boat Safety Everyone should be familiar with both state and local boating laws. Current regulation booklets are usually available wherever fishing licenses are sold or are available online at myfwc.com.

In addition, you will need to pack the right equipment, such as personal flotation devices, fire extinguishers, visual distress signals, marine radios, navigation lights and sound-producing devices. Complete information on regulations and equipment standards can also be found on the U.S. Coast Guard’s boating safety website at www.uscgboating.org.

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Here is a list of public ramps in Polk County: Lake Garfield; Surveyor’s Lake; Lake Mariana; Peace River Canoe Launch; Lake Annie; Lake Pierce; Lake Arbuckle Park; Lake Livingston; Lake Reedy Park; Lake Walk-in-Water; Little Crooked Lake; Lake Buffum; Lake Confusion; Lake Hamilton; Lake Marion; Banana Lake; Crystal Lake; Lake Deeson; Lake Gibson; Lake Parker Eastside; Saddle Creek Park; Lake Rosalie Park; Lake Agnes; Lake Tennessee; Mudd Lake; Lake Blue North; Lake Cannon; Lake Conine Park; Lake Daisey; Lake Deer; Lake Elbert; Lake Howard; Lake Jessie; Lake Roy; Lake Sears; Lake Shipp; Lake Summit Help keep and improve public access to Polk County’s waters by participating in or attending the Rampin’ It Up Big Bass Benefit Tournament on Saturday, April 9 at Lake Shipp Park. Info is available at your local tackle shops or at friendsoftheparks.net.

Come see me at the Bridgemaster/Katydid exhibitors booth and say “Hi.” Captain Dick Loupe Southern Outdoorsman Guide Service Katydid Fishing Products, LLC More Tackle PO Box 7870 Indian Lake Estates, FL 33855 888-692-2208 www.bassfishingguide.com www.katydidfishingproducts.com www.moretackle.com March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 19

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PO Box 1921• Haines City, FL 33845 How long has it been since you’ve been to a zoo? If you haven’t been to one lately you should load up the kids in the car and take one in. Here in Florida you have a great selection to choose from.

I remember a few years back my wife and I were at Busch Gardens sitting outside on the patio of one of their African styled restaurants. Patsy was about half way through her sandwich when out of blue down comes a seagull and snatches it out of her hand. That got me to thinking. Those guys have a smart marketing department. First they offer a great value and have developed a wonderful family entertainment venue. But many people are not aware that most zoos have a method to help to pay to feed the birds and various animals. Just put a quarter in the re-vamped gum machine, hold your hand at the bottom of the chute, and turn the handle. There you have it. You pay to feed them even after paying your admission to the zoo.

The only person I know that has used this system to make money is Dale Woodruff, my cousin who lives near St. Augustine.

Every year he has a gigantic yard sale. Dale puts George, his bald headed parrot, outside in the middle of all his junk he has priced at 75 percent off his already low price. Right beside the parrot stand he has a small table with a sign that says, “Feed George and he may talk to you.” He sells a very small bag of nuts for fifty cents. Last year he sold $10.00 worth of nuts, and George gained three pounds. As far as George talking to those who fed him, all he has been known to say is, “Sucker.”

Seeing the elephants at Busch Gardens reminded me of a story that Johnny Ryals told me. The story is that a man from Northwestern University went on a hike through the bush and came across a young bull elephant with one leg raised in the air. The elephant seemed distressed so he approached it very

20 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

carefully. He got down on one knee, inspected the elephant’s foot, and found a large piece of wood deeply embedded in it. As carefully and as gently as he could, he worked the wood out with his knife. The elephant gingerly put down his foot, turned to face the man, and with a rather curious look on its face, stared at him for several moments. The man stood frozen, thinking of nothing else but being trampled. Soon the elephant trumpeted loudly, turned, and walked away. The man never forgot that elephant or the events of that day.

Twenty years later, the same man was walking through the Chicago Zoo with his teenaged son. As they approached the elephant enclosure, one of the creatures turned and walked over to near where he and his son were standing. The large bull elephant stared at him, lifted its front foot off the ground, then put it down. The elephant did that several times then trumpeted loudly, all the while staring at the man.

Remembering the encounter 20 years earlier, he could not help wondering if this was the same elephant.

With all his courage, he climbed over the railing, and made his way into the enclosure. He walked right up to the elephant and stared back in wonder. The elephant trumpeted again, wrapped its trunk around one of the mans legs and slammed him against the railing, killing him instantly. It probably wasn’t the same elephant.

Then there’s the story of a mother and baby camel that were carrying on a conversation one day when the baby camel asks, “Mom, why have I got these huge three toed feet?” The mother replies, “Well son, when we walk across the desert your toes will help you to stay on top of the soft sand.”

“Okay,” says the son. A few minutes later the son asks, “Mom,

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why have I got these great long eyelashes?”

“They are there to keep the sand out of your eyes on the long trips through the desert.”

“Thanks Mom,” replies the son. After a short while, the son returns and asks, “Mom, why have I got these great big humps on my back?”

His mother replies impatiently, “They are there to help us store water for our long treks across the desert.”

“That’s great Mom. So we have huge feet to stop us from sinking, and long eyelashes to keep the sand from our eyes, and these humps to store water, but Mom…” “Yes, son?”

“Why the heck are we in the Busch Gardens zoo?”

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On the way home from our visit to Busch Gardens we passed a 1953 like-new Chevrolet on I-4. That got me to thinking about the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. Back then we would ride in cars with no seat belts or air bags. Who ever heard of buying water in plastic bottles? We ate cupcakes, bread and butter, and drank sugar soda but were never over weight, because we were always outside playing. There were no such things as Playstations, Nintendo, X-Boxes, or video games. Never heard of cable TV, video taped movies, surround sound, cell phones, personal computers, Internet, Facebook or Twitter. At Little League tryouts not everyone made the team, and those that didn’t learn to deal with it. Boy have we come a long way.

When my Dad was two years old in 1902 only 14 percent of the homes in the US had a bathtub. The average wage was 22 cents an hour. There were only 8,000 cars in the United States and just 144 miles of paved roads. Canada passed a law prohibiting poor people from entering the country for any reason. More than 95 percent of births in the US took place at home. Yes, times have changed in the last 100 years. Now I wear a small cell phone on my belt that has the capability to let me not only talk with anyone anywhere, but access the Internet and send and receive messages and pictures from anywhere in the world. It’s amazing.

Only in America can a pizza get to your home faster than an ambulance. Only in America do banks leave both doors open and chain the pens to the counters. Only in America do we leave cars worth thousands of dollars in the driveway and put our useless junk in the garage. Only in America there are handicapped parking places in front of a skating rink.

And in closing I wonder why I have never seen the headline “Psychic wins Lottery”?

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 21

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NWTF Reaches Conservation Milestone With Wild Turkey Release As the wild turkey glided across the field and touched down in its new home in Gardner Canyon near Tucson, Ariz., the crowd of attendees looked on with a sense of awe.

The soaring Gould’s hen represented a tremendous milestone to James Earl Kennamer, Ph.D., of the National Wild Turkey Federation. That bird was the 200,000th wild turkey released through the NWTF’s trap and transfer program.

“The restoration of the wild turkey has succeeded beyond what anyone could have imagined,” said Kennamer, the NWTF’s chief conservation officer. “The trap and transfer of the 200,000th wild turkey is a truly meaningful conservation milestone. I am excited to see what we can accomplish as we now focus more of our efforts on the conservation and improvement of upland habitat, which not only benefits wild turkeys but also a vast range of other wildlife.”

Experts and volunteers from the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the NWTF recently trapped the 200,000th wild turkey in southern Arizona. The bird was one of 15 Gould’s wild turkeys that were trapped in the Coronado National Forest and then transferred to Gardner Canyon, which has suitable habitat but no wild turkeys.

“Being part of this event and having the honor of releasing the 200,000th bird was exciting,” said Peggy Anne Vallery, chairman of the NWTF’s national board of directors. “But seeing all the young people help release wild turkeys alongside NWTF volunteers and staff, and Arizona Game and Fish staff members - that was the true thrill. Watching these young children open boxes and release wild turkeys, that’s what it is all about. Our youth are the future so having them involved in this historic project was just tremendous.”

Wild turkeys were on the brink of extinction in the early 1900s. Thankfully, efforts by government agencies and the NWTF have enabled the wild turkey population to soar to more than 7 million today, making it the second-most popular game species in the U.S. with more than 2.5 million turkey hunters.

Two critical factors were responsible for much of this success. The first was the creation of propelled nets in the 1950s that allowed wildlife managers to safely trap wild turkeys. However, the recovery of the wild turkey progressed slowly because wildlife managers could not secure enough resources for wide ranging restoration efforts.

The second important factor was the NWTF’s founding in 1973. The NWTF offered wildlife managers a nonprofit partner to raise the funds needed to greatly expand trap and transfer efforts and provide volunteers to help conduct trap and transfers projects.

Thanks to the efforts of wildlife management agencies and the NWTF, wild turkeys currently occupy 99 percent of suitable habitat in North America. The NWTF continues to focus on improving and conserving upland habitat, which is critical to sustaining healthy populations of wild turkey and many other species hat share this important habitat.

Because of the success of trap and transfer, the interest in turkey hunting is also increasing. In 1973, there were turkey hunting seasons in only 22 states. Today, there are hunting seasons in 49 states, Canada and Mexico.

The number of turkey hunters is up 15 percent from 1996 to 2006, according to a recently released study by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. During that same time period, participation by all other hunters decreased 19 percent.

“This illustrates how successful we’ve been in reintroducing the wild turkey to so many states,” Kennamer said. “To have hunting in 49 states, Canada and Mexico is tremendous.

They even have a turkey hunting season on Long Island, New York for the first time in 100 years. Now more people than ever before have the opportunity to experience this grand bird in the wild.”

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 23

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D i s t r i ct 6 Up date From the Desk o f Andy Neuho fer The Legislative session for 2011 has begun. Farm Bureau has put into place 11 priority issues and a few key issues we will be working on and/or monitoring.

1. General Ag. Bill • It will prohibit the duplication of all local regulation not just new ordinances.

• It will exempt nonresidential farm buildings and fences from permits and fees. (Some counties still force the issue.)

• It will require anyone moving adjacent to a farm acknowledge that farm is an ongoing operation.

• It will exempt farms which are incorporated from paying a local business tax.

2. Renewable Energy • Our policy states we support agricultural producers to have the opportunity to produce and sell renewable energy through the use of their Florida grown feed stocks and farm waste.

3. Beekeeper protection • Bees are important for crop pollination and production. We support legislation which will prohibit local governments from adopting policies which impede the establishment and maintenance of honeybees in hives. Such a prohibition will not restrict zoning authority of local governments to establish appropriate locations for apiaries.

4. Agritourism • We support measures that local governments consult with the Florida Department of Agriculture regarding tourism on farms.

5. Budget • We will work with the legislature regarding the budgets of the Florida Department of Agriculture and the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences with respect to the effect on them and agricultural producers.

6. Fertilizer • We support legislation that preempts local governments from restricting or banning the

24 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

retail sale of fertilizer or its application by licensed professionals.

7. Immigration • Immigration issues should be handled at the federal level.

8. Economic Development • We support legislation that stimulates private sector jobs and strengthens local economies.

9. Regulatory Reform • We support legislation that will provide for the streamlining of the permitting process at all levels of government.

10. Numeric Nutrient Criteria • We support a unified position at the state level opposing the EPA rule.

• We endorse an affirmative Florida position on the NNC and reject EPA’s litigation derived science.

11. Property Rights • We favor an amendment to the Bert Harris Property Rights Act so a landowner may bring a claim against a governmental entity based upon when the law or regulation was applied to the property vs. when the law or regulation was adopted or enacted.

Other issues include sales tax exemptions for agriculture, agricultural classification and agricultural career/technical programs.

Farm Bureau members will be in Tallahassee March 21 and 22. Consider attending the events as we work with our elected leaders to keep agriculture strong in Florida.

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We provide American farmers with nutrients to grow the food we need. But our work doesn’t stop there. After mining the natural phosphate needed to make our products, we reclaim the land for recreational and environmental uses.

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A better Florida and a better world

Andy Neuhofer Field Representative District 6 Andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org 352.318.2506 www.floridafarmbureau.org www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 25

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By Ron Lambert

Greetings to all fortunate enough to live in the Heartland of Florida. I will continue to write on a subject which I have discovered to be a very interesting subject. It has a great deal of historical significance directly related to the development of Florida.

The orange in Florida gradually developed from the wild orange, which is found growing in every area of the state. The wild orange developed from the oranges that were brought from Spain by the earliest settlers. Over the years every known variety of citrus from all over the world have been budded or crossed with Florida Citrus. As a result of this many new variations have been developed either by design or totally by accident.

The primary research source, which I am using to guide me in preparing this text is titled, Florida in the Making written by Frank Parker Stockbridge and John Holliday Perry. This very interesting book was published in 1926. It contains very clear and pertinent information which is so useful still today. The second book I relied upon is titled The Cultivation of Citrus Fruits written by Harold Hume in 1926 and published in 1951. The opening photo in this book is a very nice photograph of a man harvesting grapefruit. I included a scan of this photo with the article.

I am going to write primarily about the round oranges in this month’s feature and deal later with the mandarin or kid glove tangerine. I also plan to write a section centered upon grapefruit.

At the time that my earliest research book was written in 1926, the chief variety of round orange grown was the Parson Brown. It originated in a seedling grove near Webster, Florida owned by Parson Brown. It was introduced by a Captain GH Carney of Lake Weir, Florida around 1878. It is the earliest maturing variety of the round orange.

The variety considered in the 1920’s to be the choice fruit of the age is the pineapple. It originated in the heart of the old Citrus Belt near Citra in Marion County, Florida in a grove owned

by James B. Owens. The year is not given that it appeared but it was well before the big freeze of 1895.

The Pineapple Orange was first marketed in quantity by a packing house known as Bishop Hoyt and Company. It gained a reputation as a high quality brightly colored orange. In the 1920’s it was classed as Florida’s most important midseason orange.

Other varieties, which are still familiar names to those in the

26 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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industry, are the Valencia, the Washington Navel and the King Orange. Two other varieties also grown were the Homosassa and the Ruby. These two are very rare today. One other variety is the Lue Gim Gong. I am including information about the origin of the Lue Gim Gong to provide additional interest in this variety.

The Lue Gim Gong was a cross between Harts Late or Valencia and a variety thought to be Mediterranean Sweet. It first grew near Deland, Florida fruiting first in 1886. This cross was made by a Chinese Horticulturist named Lue Gim Gong. The Lue Gim Gong orange was listed in the 1912 catalogue of the Glen St. Mary’s Nurseries Company for the first time. This company became the largest citrus nursery in the world. Later I will share more of this company and its contributions to the citrus industry. It was recognized that this tree was very tolerant to cold temperatures and had the added advantage that the fruit would hold on the tree in good conditions till early fall.

I am not sure at all why it is not commercially growing any longer. I must remind you that the total demand for oranges of all types at this time was for fresh consumption whether local or shipped to northern markets.

I referred to a chart listing quantities of oranges, grapefruit and tangerines shipped from Florida in 1919 to 1920. During that season a total of 7,550,000 90lbs boxes of oranges, 5,900,000 boxes of grapefruit, and 450,000 boxes of tangerines were shipped to markets outside of Florida.

These are so many details and stories surrounding the origin of dozens of oranges, which once had a place in the development of the Florida citrus industry.

I found these descriptions on fruits and their origin from page 64 of W. Harold Humes’ book to be most interesting, as well as informative. I gained a great deal of insight regarding the effort required by these early pioneers to locate and observe a new citrus type and to propagate sufficient stock to plant acreage of a new fruit. This required both vision and determination on the parts of these men. I have to admire them for their hard work in paving the way for future development of the modern citrus industry.

Next month I plan to continue with a focus on Mandarin Oranges. I hope my readers are enjoying this series. Have a blessed day and make the most of each day.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 27

Susannah Belflower & Jane Durando Mixed Baked Beans Ingredients 2 16 oz cans of northern beans, drained 1 16 oz can of lima beans, drained 1 16 oz can of dark red kidney beans, drained 1 28 oz can of pork and beans 1/2 cup ketchup 1/8 cup yellow mustard 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar 1 tsp dry mustard 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp salt 1/2 cup brown sugar or more to taste bacon

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 29

Matt Warren

by Jack McConoughey Growing up in Hardee County, Matt Warren knew at a young age that he wanted a career in agriculture. Although his father mainly worked in the citrus industry, Matt was really interested in cattle and joined the livestock judging team. Matt knew early in life that one day he wanted to be the judge at the shows. After graduating from Hardee High School, and receiving a full scholarship for Livestock Judging, Matt moved to Fort Scott, Kansas to attend community college. There he traveled from Colorado, to Louisville, to Texas with the Livestock Judging Team.

Matt’s decision to attend college out of state was based on his interest of agriculture in different parts of the United States beside Florida. In Kansas, Matt worked on a farm. “It’s amazing seeing 1,000 head of yearling calves going across the Flint Hills of Kansas,” said Matt. He then finished his remaining two years of college at Louisiana State University, participating on their Livestock Judging Team and serving an internship at a feed lot.

After college, Matt returned to Florida to coach the judging team at the University of Florida.

Living in Chiefland, FL, Matt enjoyed running a 7,000-acre ranch that had about 400 mama cows and 2000 stocker cows.

He also serves as a judge at various shows around the state where he enjoys working and talking with kids about agriculture.

“I like to educate kids as to why they placed where they did. To make them feel good and to help them. I want them to understand what I’m seeing

30 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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and why. We’re all learning and these kids are the future of the ag industry,” Matt said.

In November, Matt and his wife of ten years, Julie, and their son, Lane, returned home to Hardee County. Julie, also from Hardee County, grew up in the ag industry and now helps with Habitat for Humanity. “We came home to be closer to family,” said Matt. He went on to say, “The greatest thing about coming home is seeing the people you grew up with… friends, family and mentors.” Both Matt and Julie have been members of the Farm Bureau Young Farmer Rancher Leadership Team and plan to get involved with Hardee Farm Bureau.

Now, back in his hometown of Wauchula, Matt, travels as a judge to livestock shows around Florida such as the Strawberry Festival and the State Fair to name a couple. He judges Breeding Classes, Market Classes, and Showmanship. Matt also likes to encourage young people wanting a career in agriculture to attend college out of state. “It gives kids more exposure to the ag industry. Seeing ag in a whole new perspective is rewarding,” said Matt.

When returning home, Matt took a job with one of his mentors, Ronnie Durrance, in outside sales and public relations for Hardee Ranch Supply, Inc. Working at the store also gives Matt the opportunity to help kids that come in prepare for shows and plans on doing clinics in the future to assist them, as well.

Matt Warren is truly living up to his early dreams of serving as a judge and working in agriculture.

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In The Field

magazine was born in November of 2004 with the first issue hitting the streets in Hillsborough County.

After working in sales for most of her adult life, Karen Berry felt as if something were missing in her life. She loved selling, but felt she was being called to do something more. After doing some research and much soul searching, she decided to start her own publication, one geared toward agriculture, a publication that would interest both those involved in agriculture and those who are generations removed from the field.

32 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 33

January 2010

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

February 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

March 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

April 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

®

Orange Enterprises

JANUARY 2010

1

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS DESOTO • CHARLOTTE OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

May 2010

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

FEBRUARY 2010

1

RYALS CATTLE CO.

It’s A Family Tradition

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS DESOTO • CHARLOTTE OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

1

Crescent View Ranch

Cutting Horses of Distinction

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE I T

N HEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2010

June 2010

®

MARCH 2010

April 2010

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

The Story Behind the Slogan

March 2010

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS DESOTO • CHARLOTTE OKEECHOBEE

February 2010

January 2010

The Cutting Edge of Citrus

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

APRIL 2010

1

August 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

®

Randy Johnson

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE I T

N HEFIELD

MAGAZINE

MAY 2010

1

Women Ag Educators of the Heartland HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE I T

N HEFIELD

September 2010

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

MAGAZINE

JUNE 2010

1

Covering What’s Growing HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE I T

N HEFIELD

October 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

MAGAZINE

JULY 2010

1

August 2010

Florida Cattleman

July 2010

Wade Grigsby

June 2010

May 2010

Reality Ranch

Okeechobee’s Cattlemen Assoc.

Celebration

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

AUGUST 2010

1

December 2010

November 2010

®

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

Buckhorn Nursery

Johnny Georges’

TREE T-PEE

The Four Generation Lambert Family Legacy

An Invention Whose Time Has Come

After approaching the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau to see if they would endorse the idea, Berry Publications, Inc. was established.

After almost two years of successful publishing, expansion was discussed and the Polk County edition of In The Field hit the streets with its first issue in September 2006. Currently Berry Publications has four issues of In The Field, covering what’s growing in Hillsborough County, Polk County, The Heartland, which includes Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Okeechobee and now Glades and Hendry Counties, as well as a publication in South Mississippi.

The content of each of these magazines is written with the intent to raise awareness of agriculture, the farmer and rancher, and the work that goes in to getting food on your table. It is filled with positive editorial designed for readers young and old.

Why all the history? There is a change taking place with the Heartland issue of In The Field. The content will continue to be upbeat and positive and Berry Publications will still have a hand in the magazine.

Bill and Rhonda Glisson have purchased majority interest in the Heartland edition of In The Field. Their family roots run deep in the Heartland and they spend much of their time there visiting friends and family. Bill’s family has been in the Heartland for eight generations.

Rhonda expressed interest in the magazine and decided to come help out at In The Field, to see what it was all about. “We

34 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

have always respected Karen, her staff and the magazine, and feel their contribution to agriculture the community goes above and beyond,” said Rhonda. “Our business in Plant City has advertised with In The Field magazine for several years.”

After working with In The Field and decided that this is something she wanted to do the purchase was made.

This issue is the first issue published jointly by Karen Berry and Rhonda Glisson.

Rhonda spent time visiting with her mother-in-law, Annie Laura Glisson, at Sebring Western Wear, which Mrs. Glisson owned for over 35 years. “What would stand out to me was the people that were bringing their children in for their first cowboy boots and jeans because their parents brought them in for their first boots and jeans. Now, nine years after the store closed, I am still meeting folks who tell of their memories of buying their first boots and their kids first boots.”

Rhonda goes on to say, “I have enjoyed working with Karen and Sarah (Sarah Holt, Senior Managing Editor) and the staff on various articles, including one on Craig Cannady and my fatherin-law, I.W., at Glisson’s Animal Supply, Eugene and Phil Turner, the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Brighton Field Day Festival, as well as the different women in ag who have contributed so much to the industry, the community and the state of Florida.”

Those involved in agriculture may not realize it, but they have a great story to tell. It is up to those directly involved to help spread the word of agriculture to those who are generations

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

1

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

1

removed from agriculture. In The Field tells the story of those who have been involved for years and generations, to those just starting out.

“This month we have an article on Alexis Stinson, my fatherin-law delivered feed to her grandfather years ago. I see Lindsey Sebring, who I have known since she was a young girl, serving on many boards to promote agriculture in Highlands County and the State of Florida. One of our Women in Ag is Nikki Smith, a cattle rancher, who, even though she didn’t grow up here, has contributed so much to the industry and the community.”

“The point to this is, the circle keeps going,” said Rhonda.

“The Heartland is truly generations of folks who continue to work together and welcoming those young farmers and ranchers just starting the tradition.”

To add to that circle the young people in The Heartland should be commended. “We should be so proud of the young people involved in agriculture in the Heartland,” said Rhonda.

“We just need to look at the results from the local county fairs and the Florida State Fair to see their hard work.”

“The parents, ag teachers and advisors, as well as your local 4H extension agents, they bring it all together. We are blessed to have their knowledge, support and enthusiasm with our youth.”

“Grub Stations” or restaurant reviews have been a part of In The Field magazine since it’s inception. “My family lives to eat,” said Rhonda. “Folks that have visited Billy and I in New Mexico know that we mean business when it comes to meal time.”

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2010

1

December 2010

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

Turner Brothers Lifelong hard work builds much success and happiness

November 2010

Covering What’s Growing

October 2010

September 2010

Sheriff Susan Benton Protection in Highlands County

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2010

1

Bill spends much of hunting season in New Mexico and one week he let Rhonda know he was living the life. Her response?

“After visiting the Lamberts in Wauchula at their house for lunch, having a great meal with wonderful fellowship ending with homemade guava cobbler, then going to North Hillsboro Baptist Church in Arcadia with a spread by Janet Foley, the different restaurants throughout the Heartland that I have visited and after leaving driving through God’s County, no Bill, I AM LIVING THE LIFE.” Of course it is advertising that drives the engine that is In The Field magazine. That is what allows us to continue to cover what is growing. “It is up to the magazine to promote their advertisers,” said Rhonda. “We can do that with our designer and graphic artist. They will work with you on a great ad and we will continue to work with our reps in the field to promote your business.”

“The people we have met in agriculture have made a lasting impression on us,” said Rhonda. “We want to continue to cover and write about what is important in the Heartland and we want our readers to let us know. Send an email and tell us what you think, good or bad. We can be reached via email at Rhonda@ inthefieldmagazine.com.

Thank you so much for reading In The Field magazine. It is our mission to continue to spread the word about the farmer and rancher, the blood sweat and tears that go into their product and the trials and tribulations that happen along the way.

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 35

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magazine was born in November of 2004 with the first issue hitting the streets in Hillsborough County.

After working in sales for most of her adult life, Karen Berry felt as if something were missing in her life. She loved selling, but felt she was being called to do something more. After doing some research and much soul searching, she decided to start her own publication, one geared toward agriculture, a publication that would interest both those involved in agriculture and those who are generations removed from the field.

Rhonda Glisson & Karen Berry 32 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 33

January 2010

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

February 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

March 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

April 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

®

Orange Enterprises

JANUARY 2010

1

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS DESOTO • CHARLOTTE OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

May 2010

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

FEBRUARY 2010

1

RYALS CATTLE CO.

It’s A Family Tradition

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS DESOTO • CHARLOTTE OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

1

Crescent View Ranch

Cutting Horses of Distinction

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE I T

N HEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2010

June 2010

®

MARCH 2010

April 2010

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

The Story Behind the Slogan

March 2010

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS DESOTO • CHARLOTTE OKEECHOBEE

February 2010

January 2010

The Cutting Edge of Citrus

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

APRIL 2010

1

August 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

®

Randy Johnson

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE I T

N HEFIELD

MAGAZINE

MAY 2010

1

Women Ag Educators of the Heartland HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE I T

N HEFIELD

September 2010

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

MAGAZINE

JUNE 2010

1

Covering What’s Growing HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE I T

N HEFIELD

October 2010

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

MAGAZINE

JULY 2010

1

August 2010

Florida Cattleman

July 2010

Wade Grigsby

June 2010

May 2010

Reality Ranch

Okeechobee’s Cattlemen Assoc.

Celebration

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

AUGUST 2010

1

December 2010

November 2010

®

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

®

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

Buckhorn Nursery

Johnny Georges’

TREE T-PEE

The Four Generation Lambert Family Legacy

An Invention Whose Time Has Come

After approaching the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau to see if they would endorse the idea, Berry Publications, Inc. was established.

After almost two years of successful publishing, expansion was discussed and the Polk County edition of In The Field hit the streets with its first issue in September 2006. Currently Berry Publications has four issues of In The Field, covering what’s growing in Hillsborough County, Polk County, The Heartland, which includes Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Okeechobee and now Glades and Hendry Counties, as well as a publication in South Mississippi.

The content of each of these magazines is written with the intent to raise awareness of agriculture, the farmer and rancher, and the work that goes in to getting food on your table. It is filled with positive editorial designed for readers young and old.

Why all the history? There is a change taking place with the Heartland issue of In The Field. The content will continue to be upbeat and positive and Berry Publications will still have a hand in the magazine.

Bill and Rhonda Glisson have purchased majority interest in the Heartland edition of In The Field. Their family roots run deep in the Heartland and they spend much of their time there visiting friends and family. Bill’s family has been in the Heartland for eight generations.

Rhonda expressed interest in the magazine and decided to come help out at In The Field, to see what it was all about. “We have always respected Karen, her staff and the magazine, and feel their contribution to agriculture and the community goes above and beyond,” said Rhonda. “Our business in Plant City has advertised with In The Field magazine for several years.”

After working with In The Field and deciding that this is something she wanted to do, the purchase was made.

This issue is the first issue published jointly by Karen Berry and Rhonda Glisson.

“We have made our living in agriculture our whole lives,” said Bill. “And saw the opportunity

“We want to continue to cover and write about what is important in the Heartland... ”

34 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

1

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

1

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2010

1

December 2010

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

Turner Brothers Lifelong hard work builds much success and happiness

November 2010

Covering What’s Growing

October 2010

Bill & Rhonda Glisson

September 2010

Sheriff Susan Benton Protection in Highlands County

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2010

1

of purchasing Heartland In The Field as a way of giving back to the industry that has been so good to us. It is has been our experience that regardless of the county or state that we have been involved in agriculture we have discovered two things, that agriculture people are some of the best people on earth and our true roots are in the Heartland.”

Rhonda spent time visiting with her mother-in-law, Annie Laura Glisson, at Sebring Western Wear, which Mrs. Glisson owned for over 35 years. “What would stand out to me was the people that were bringing their children in for their first cowboy boots and jeans because their parents brought them in for their first boots and jeans. Now, nine years after the store closed, I am still meeting folks who tell of their memories of buying their first boots and their kids first boots.”

Rhonda goes on to say, “I have enjoyed working with Karen and Sarah (Sarah Holt, Senior Managing Editor) and the staff on various articles, including one on Craig Cannady and my father-in-law, I.W., at Glisson’s Animal Supply, Eugene and Phil Turner, Buckhorn Nursery, the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Brighton Field Day Festival, as well as the different women in ag who have contributed so much to the industry, the community and the state of Florida.”

Those involved in agriculture may not realize it, but they have a great story to tell. It is up to those directly involved to help spread the word of agriculture to those who are generations removed from agriculture. In The Field tells the story of those who have been involved for years and generations, to those just starting out.

“This month we have an article on Alexis Stinson, my father-in-law delivered feed to her grandfather years ago. I see Lindsey Sebring, who I have known since she was a young girl, serving on many boards to promote agriculture in Highlands County and the State of Florida. One of our Women in Ag is Nikki Smith, a cattle rancher, who, even though she didn’t grow up here, has contributed so much to the industry and the community.”

“The point to this is, the circle keeps going,” said Rhonda. “The Heartland is truly genera-

“...agriculture people are some of the best people on earth and our true roots are in the Heartland”

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 35

No Farmers No Food

tions of folks who continue to work together and welcome those young farmers and ranchers just starting the tradition.”

To add to that circle the young people in The Heartland should be commended. “We should be so proud of the young people involved in agriculture in the Heartland,” said Rhonda.

“We just need to look at the results from the local county fairs and the Florida State Fair to see their hard work. I agree with Jacob and Danielle Larson of Okeechobee about the farm tours being so important to educate the youth about where their food comes from. Look on page 56 to read about a recent farm tour that was held at Janet Storey’s Ranch in Glades County.”

“The parents, ag teachers and advisors, as well as your local 4H extension agents, they bring it all together. We are blessed to have their knowledge, support and enthusiasm with our youth.”

“Grub Stations” or restaurant reviews have been a part of In The Field magazine since it’s inception. “My family lives to eat,” said Rhonda. “Folks that have visited Billy and I in New Mexico know that we mean business when it comes to meal time.”

Bill spends much of hunting season in New Mexico and one week he let Rhonda know he was living the life. Her response?

“After visiting the Lamberts in Wauchula at their house for lunch, having a great meal with wonderful fellowship ending with homemade guava cobbler, then going to North Hillsboro Baptist Church in Arcadia with a spread by Janet Foley, the different restaurants throughout the Heartland that I have visited and after leaving driving through God’s County, no Bill, I AM LIVING THE LIFE.” Of course it is advertising that drives the engine that is In The Field magazine. That is what allows us to continue to cover what is growing. “It is up to the magazine to promote their advertisers,” said Rhonda. “We can do that with our designer and graphic artist. They will work with you on a great ad and we will continue to work with our reps in the field to promote your business.”

“As our ownership of the publication unfolds we will express our passion for Heartland agriculture in each and every publication,” said Bill. “You will notice on the cover of our first publication as co-publishers our revised logo that verifies we are the Heartlands Agriculture Publication.”

“The people we have met in agriculture have made a lasting impression on us,” said Rhonda. “We want to continue to cover and write about what is important in the Heartland and we want our readers to let us know. Send an email and tell us what you think, good or bad. We can be reached via email at Rhonda@ inthefieldmagazine.com.”

Thank you so much for reading In The Field magazine. It is our mission to continue to spread the word about the farmer and rancher, the blood sweat and tears that go into their product and the trials and tribulations that happen along the way.

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March 2011

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In The Field Magazine Awards

• 2005 Hillsborough County Newsperson of the Year, Hillsborough County Farm Bureau • 2006 Hillsborough County Newsperson of the Year, Hillsborough County Farm Bureau • 2008 Plant City Agri-Business of the Year, Plant City Chamber of Commerce • 2008 Hillsborough County Ag Journalist of the Year, Hillsborough County Farm Bureau • 2008 Florida Farm Bureau Ag Journalist of the Year • 2009 Plant City Growing Business of the Year, Plant City Chamber of Commerce • 2010 Jim Frankowiak, writer for In The Field, Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Ag Journalist of the Year • 2010 Jim Frankowiak, writer for In The Field, Florida Farm Bureau Ag Journalist of the Year

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All door jambs & corners are at a minimum double 2X4 All garage door jambs and headers are at a minimum double 2X4 with 2X6 All gang nail plates are 2.5” X 4” 20 ga—not 2” X 3” All aluminum roofs are mill finish (not painted) which reflects 85% of the sun’s heat—painted absorbs heat.

All doors including garage doors are wind rated with sloped exterior threshold Plywood flooring is 3/4 Sturdi-Floor premium grade BluWood treated—no arsenic Roof overhangs on Suburban & Classic models are structural—not just bent aluminum Buildings are Florida Dept. of Community Affairs approved with wind velocity rating of 146 mph Aluminum siding has a 30 year warranty against rust & corrosion & 5 year warranty on workmanship

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 37

Heart of Florida Greenhouses

by Jack McConoughey

I

n 1977, Theo and Chris Bryant established Heart of Florida Greenhouses Inc. After retiring from 20 years of service in the U.S. Navy, Theo, and his wife, Chris, a medical technologist, knew they wanted to have a business together doing what they loved, a business that would one day involve the entire family. Building their home on the same property as the nursery, Theo and Chris raised their two sons, Austin and Henry. Both Austin and Henry graduated from Hardee High School before going to college at the University of Florida. Austin graduated with a Bachelors degree in Environmental Horticulture and Henry graduated with a Masters degree in Environmental Horticulture.

Now, 33 years later, Heart of Florida Greenhouses has become one of the leaders of quality foliage in the state of Florida. Unlike most nurseries, a retail front is not available. Heart of Florida Greenhouses sells mainly to three markets, wholesale to large or mid-size florists, the interior scape market, and independent garden centers. The interior scape market mainly refers to planters in skyscrapers, hotels and office buildings in the northern regions of the United States. With interior scapes, plant rotation is necessary when coordinating with the seasons. Ninety to ninety-five percent of the plants grown at Heart of Florida leave the state. Within the last four to five years, the Bryant family began selling to more independent garden centers. This allows the owners of the garden center to order exactly what they want. However, they do not sell to box stores such as Wal-Mart or Home Depot. One of their customers is a florist in Manhattan, NY. “We sell a lot of foliage to Chicago, Boston, Lansing and the upper Mid-West, and as far west as Washington state,” said Austin.

With Heart of Florida Greenhouses being a family business, each member contributes in their own way. Theo has engineered and built all of the green-

38 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

houses. He also oversees day to day operations of the business. Chris brought her medical aspect of pathology to the business. She heads up the sales and service department while keeping the books. There are three different types of greenhouses used, a double polly house, cable house, and a conventional board structure house. The operation has its own tissue culture lab on site creating uniform homogenetic plants. Henry and Deanna, Austin’s wife who is also a University of Florida graduate with a Bachelors degree in Horticulture Science, both lend their knowledge to the business.

Besides working at the nursery, Austin Bryant is involved in several organizations. He is a member of the Highlands Heartland FNGLA (Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association) and served as President in 2010. Austin also serves on the board of the state FNGLA. Following in his father’s footsteps of a 10 year term on the board, Austin currently serves as Vice President of the National Foliage Foundation. With this position, he is set to be President of the NFF next year.

Heart of Florida Greenhouses is a success today because of the goals set by Theo and Chris Bryant more than three decades ago. “There’s always foliage material on the market, but there’s not always quality foliage material,” said Theo Bryant.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 39

WITH QUALITY TOL HEDGERS AND TOPPERS

• • • • • •

Alexis Stinson

by Jack McConoughey Responsible, motivated, determined, ambitious, and caring are words used when asked to describe Alexis Stinson. At the age of 17, Alexis has already earned a national title, assisted her grandfather in rescuing orphans, owned a small herd of cattle and planned her future in agriculture. At an early age, Alexis fell in love with animals. Her grandparents, Kayo and Sandra Welles of Arcadia, gave Alexis her first small herd of cattle after she approached them with a partnership agreement. In return for positive behavior and good grades, her paternal grandfather, Jim Stinson, of Houston, Texas, also partnered with Alexis on club calves for Stinson to exhibit both locally and nationally.

Recognizing a gift with animals at an early age, Alexis’ parents, Justin and Leslie Hale, encouraged her to surround herself with the knowledge of many local cattlemen and veterinarians, as well as connections made in Oklahoma, Texas, and the Midwest. With the assistance of many, the path was chosen and opportunities presented so that Alexis could immerse herself in an industry that she not only loves, but lives as well.

“My Papas,” as she fondly refers to them, “are not just my grandfathers but also wonderful mentors and friends. I talk to both of them every day!”

In 2003 Alexis completed in her first cattle show at the DeSoto County Fair. She won showmanship and her first buckle with an Angus-Braford cross. “It wasn’t until later that I realized how important showmanship was!” said Alexis.

That was only the beginning. After Hurricane Charley swept through Florida in 2004, Alexis made a difficult decision not to show because of the lack of weight gained by the calf she had chosen. She showed and won her class at the DeSoto show in both 2006 and 2007. During the summer of 2007, her paternal Grandfather sent her to the Wisconsin State Fair to stay with a

40 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

top club calf producer/fitter learning how to groom and show cattle. While in Wisconsin she received a call saying that her steer that she worked with all summer had died. She located and purchased a gorgeous steer to show at the Lee County Fair, named MoJo. “I fell in love as soon as he stepped off the trailer after a long haul from the North West,” Alexis said. With MoJo, Stinson won the grooming contest and Grand Champion Steer in March of 2008 at the Southwest Florida/Lee County Fair in Fort Myers.

In January 2008, Alexis had the opportunity to show her own heifer at the Denver Stock Show. Being only eight months old, Miss BPF Princess 160T took Reserve Grand-Champion Junior Maine-Anjou Heifer title at the National Western Stock Show, and was the youngest heifer entry in the Maine-Anjou breed. In September, Alexis went through another unfortunate death of a steer that she was planning to show. “I had less than a week to locate another steer before I had to validate it in for the Southwest Florida/Lee County Fair!” The pressure was on.

Two days before the Lee County weigh-in, her new steer from Oklahoma arrived.

She later purchased another heifer to show nationally at the American Royal in Kansas City and the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky in the fall of 2009. Due to a downturn in the economy the following year, Alexis decided to take a break from the Lee County Fair and obtained a county bred steer straight from her Papa Kayo’s back yard. In late summer, she brought her heifer’s calf from Wisconsin, along with a fair steer purchased to show again at Fort Myers in March. Her heifer, Wicked Wisdom, is out of her very first heifer, BPF Princess 160T, that she won reserve champion with two years consecutively in Denver, 2008 and 2009, and sired

by Wisdom. “Wicked” as Alexis calls her, is currently bred to the

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bull Shiver and is due to calve in early March.

Between preparation for shows, Alexis works with local veterinarians in Arcadia. Dr. Mark Davis of the Arcadia Animal Hospital commented, “Alexis has a great gift of communicating well with animals. She is very motivated and dedicated – getting up between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. to work with her show calves.”

Alexis enjoys working with Dr. Davis, assisting with many aspects of the veterinary field. “Dr. Davis is one of my favorite people,” said Alexis.

Additionally, Stinson enjoys taking time for hunting and fishing. One of her favorite places to hunt is at her Grandfather Stinson’s ranch in south Texas. She is passionate about helping those less fortunate. Each year she travels to Mexico to visit an all girls orphanage named after her great grandmother that her paternal grandfather fully sponsors. She comments, “It is the most rewarding and humbling experience that I have ever done.

These girls have nothing and we are so very fortunate!” Later in life, Alexis and her half-brother, Wyatt, will be in charge of the orphanage, continuing their Grandfather Stinson’s work.

After high school graduation, Alexis plans to attend Northeastern Oklahoma A & M in Miami, Oklahoma on a cattle judging scholarship, then transfer to Oklahoma State, hopefully to prepare for a career in Veterinary Medicine. One day, she plans to have her own ranch in south Texas and sell show calves.

Alexis would also like to get back into riding and cutting horses.

Although Arcadia is her hometown, she proudly proclaims, “My roots are deep, but my wings are wide!”

“Alexis is very mature for her age, self driven, intense and very responsible. She wants to learn, and she’s a good girl,” said Dr. Wade Crankshaw, Veterinary Service Inc. Alexis is very proud to have a wonderful, supporting family

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Herbiciding • Mowing Fertilizing • Discing Hand Labor • Tree Removal Irrigation Maintenance • ...and much more Hedging & Topping Pricing available upon Spray Application request Contact: Kevin Sanders 863-990-3093 Office: 863-494-3066 160*34*5085 kevin@sorrellscitrus.com www.sorrellscitrus.com

behind her. She told us, “I am so thankful and appreciative to my Mom. She really goes out of her way, all the time. I couldn’t ask anymore of her, she will do anything for me.”

“I’m also very thankful to my Dad. I wouldn’t be who I am today, if it were not for him,” said Alexis.

Alexis also expressed appreciation for her Gran Jan (Jan Hancock). “I cannot think her enough for always being there for me.” Graciously, Stinson doesn’t assume credit for her accomplishments, instead she is grateful for the opportunities that she has been given saying kindly, “I’m a very lucky girl!”

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 41

Okeechobee County Cattleman’s Association

Uganda Needs Your Help

Agri-Civic Center

Spring PRCA Rodeo March 12-13, 2011 Begins @ 2:00pm

By Stacey Wood As the agricultural advisor on a previous mission trip to Uganda, Africa, I had no idea what to expect. The majority of our group was comprised of physicians, nurses and teachers. My primary responsibility was to teach the people in the village of Nalwayo, Uganda how to drive and maintain a tractor, which we were shipping to them from Florida. Well… no tractor! The local government made the decision to keep the tractor for several months. However, there was still plenty for me to do. I spent my time in Uganda educating the incredible people on how to maintain and care for their livestock and vegetable gardens.

Our first night was amazing, life changing in fact. The people in the different villages anxiously waited by the side of the road all day to warmly welcome us into their lives and their homes. The fact that we were about 10 hours late did not dampen their sprits in the slightest. Their celebratory dancing and singing was the type of thing you only see in the movies.

I did not get much sleep my first night due to the joyous celebration and when I finally did get to sleep, I was awakened early in the morning by screams from an animal being attacked. If that doesn’t make the hairs on your neck stand up, I don’t know what will. To my surprise, it turned out not to be a lion but a dog attacking one of the goats. Therefore, our first project was to rebuild the goat, cow and pig pens.

This was how we learned about the poor quality of their tools.

When striking a nail, it would often break in half or the hammer would fall apart all together. As a result, we are collecting tools to take with us on our upcoming trip.

It was very disappointing not to have the tractor, but luckily, someone graciously donated a used tiller. We were able to plant vegetable gardens and teaching the co-op members to use the tiller was one of many highlights of my trip. Everyone wanted their chance to drive the tiller, even the church elders.

We made so much progress with the tiller, which gave me an idea for this trip. Blessed Trinity is the primary supporter of one village, which houses a school for over 400 students. But, they also work in smaller ways with 25 other villages. Since we

42 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

accomplished so much with the tiller in Nalwayo, my thought is to supply the other villages with their own tillers. For each village that we are able to provide a tiller for, I would also like to send gas cans, seeds, and water buckets.

I was one of only a few in our group who chose to stay in the compound with no electricity, and running water only part of the time. This to me was much more exciting and helped me to fully understand and appreciate their way of life. I am so glad I chose to stay in the village, as it allowed me time to make friends and really get to know the people in the village.

The best part of the trip was undoubtedly the children.

They were so polite, friendly and thankful that we were there to help them. They loved to have their pictures taken and would come running to get their smiling face into the picture. I would frequently walk into town for supplies and the children who were not in school quickly learned that I usually had toys in my pocket. Sometimes I felt like the Pied Piper. Keep in mind, most of these children did not have shoes and some did not even have clothes to wear, so the little toys or the lollypops I gave them were a big deal.

Although we will not return to Uganda until June, the container with supplies will be leaving at the end of March to allow plenty of time to arrive. We need the following items donated: Gas Roto-Tillers, Corn Planter for Tractor, Wheeler (ATV’s), Small Trailer Generators, 4 Wheel Drive Truck, Hand Tools, Hoes, Hand Tillers, Shovels, Picks, Water Buckets, Water Cans and Vegetable Seeds.

If you would like to donate any of these mentioned items, please contact me at: Stacey Wood, 2902 Albert Road, Yeehaw Junction, Fl. 34972. If you prefer to make a cash donation, a check can be mailed directly to me and made out to Blessed Trinity Church. If you have any questions please contact me at 407-973-3818.

It is a wonderful experience to work with people who are so thankful for anything we do or for anything they receive.

I can assure you, your donations will go to good use and be greatly appreciated by these people in Africa.

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photos by Jim Davis Photography

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calf roping saddle bronc bareback riding team roping bull doggin’ barrel racing bull riding Mutton Bustin’ for cowkids (register at 863-763-3127)

Tickets include entrance to the Okeechobee County Fair. Purchase at Eli’s Western Wear, 907 NW Park Street or at the gate. Premier adult tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the gate (children $6 in advance and $8 at the gate).

General admission tickets are $8 for adults and $2 for children. For more information, call Eli’s Western Wear 863-763-2984 or visit www.okeechobeecattlemansassociation.com

Sgt. Dan Sullivan receives the purple heart from Congressman Vernon Buchanon. The son of Kevin and Jody Sullivan, Dan and his wife Melissa have a daughter, Rhylea, 2. He is still on active duty and plans to stay in the military until he retires. While in the military he will be taking some law enforcement classes and when he retires from the military, his next goal is to come back to Arcadia and be the Sheriff.

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 43

Her Irish Eyes Will Be Smiling FINE JEWELRY SALES & REPAIR

Monday - Friday 9:00 – 5:00 Saturdays 9:00 – 2:00

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Charmayne James Barrel Racing Clinic The DeSoto County Historical Society presents the

Seventh Annual Pioneer Day and Barbecued Rib Cook-off 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, March 19, at DeSoto Park on Highway 70, just west of Arcadia

Ten teams of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel, firemen, and policemen from Southwest Florida will compete for unique 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place trophies in the Barbecued Rib Cook-off, so come out and pig out!

• Enjoy a visit from DeSoto County’s

Thanks to First State Bank and Arcadia Rotary Club for their donations!

legendary “Acrefoot” Johnson, “whip crackers,” vintage cars, antique engines, a classic fire truck--plus, entertainment, Florida authors, , horses, ponies, bunnies, and other live animals--and more!

• Appreciate demonstrations of the old-time skills of wood carving, basketweaving, quilting, tatting, soap making, blacksmithing, and butter churning.

• Savor tasty treats such as homemade

jams and jellies, cane syrup, kettle corn, the best finger-licking, lip-smacking, sweet and tangy barbecued ribs you’ve ever eaten, hot dogs, “gator bites,” and luscious strawberry shortcake!

• Participate in drawings every half hour for a variety of fine gifts. All funds raised will preserve and promote the history of DeSoto County for future generations.

• For children: pony rides will be

James Mitchell “Acrefoot” Johnson (1850-1922)

At nearly seven feet tall and weighing 250 lbs., he was called “Acrefoot” either because he wore size 14 shoes or because of the 130-mile round trip that he walked to deliver the mail from Fort Ogden to Fort Meade.

available, plus a “Discover History” area featuring: cane pole fishin’, candledipping, palm-frond weaving, a fossil dig, a “Pioneer Kitchen,” plus old-fashioned toys and games.

Free Admission for Children $1 for adults

Contact Bebe Jackson at 863-494-6607 or Kay and Leonard Higley at 863-494-1060 or online at historicparkerhouse@yahoo.com or www.historicdesoto.org.

44 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

by Robbi Sumner Riders from throughout the Heartland region and as far away as New Jersey enjoyed the mild Florida winter during the soldout Charmayne James Barrel Racing clinic held Feb 3 -6 at the Okeechobee County Agri Center.

When the clinic began Thursday afternoon, horse and rider teams were evaluated and each horse was ridden by James. This allowed her to gain a better understanding of any existing issues and what each rider experiences with their horse. Throughout the 4-day clinic, participants focused on overall horsemanship, correct hand position, lead changes and circles. James, along with her assistant Heather Heath, provided continual feedback and helpful tips to enhance each team’s performance.

In addition to extensive time in the saddle, participants also enjoyed various presentations each evening. Randy Riedinger, MCEqD, of Equine Dental Consultants, spoke on equine dentistry and the important role that a healthy, pain-free mouth plays in competition. Darryl Elliott of Elliott Equine Services provided a demonstration on equine chiropractic and explained the benefits of chiropractic work on equine athletes. Throughout the weekend, clinic participants also had the opportunity to have dental and chiropractic evaluations and work done on their horses, if they chose.

Saturday evening James spoke on personal motivation, life on the rodeo road, equine nutrition and overall care.

The clinic closed Sunday with each team making a timed run and receiving final comments from James and her team. Although tired, participants agreed that the weekend had been both fun and beneficial.

Charmayne James is the only woman to have won the WPRA Barrel Racing World Championship 11 times. Her next Florida clinic has been tentatively scheduled for February 16 -19, 2012 at the Okeechobee County Agri Center.

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 45

URE T L U C I R IN AG

Darlene Phypers

by Jack McConoughey Darlene Phypers’s contributions to the agriculture industry over the past four decades have influenced numerous kids, community leaders, and friends, making her a true woman in ag.

She began working at Lake Placid High School in 1966 as one of the main secretaries in the office. In the early 70s, she left the school to begin working with her husband, Danny and his brother’s family, in the family business, Happiness Farms. At this time, Happiness Farms mainly grew Easter Lilies and Gerber Daisies. Through the years, the business grew while concentrating mainly on caladiums. Now, after 42 years of marriage, Danny and Darlene Phypers, their two children, Drew Phypers and Danielle Daum, and Danny’s brother and family continue to operate Happiness Farms, which is know as the largest caladium grower in the world.

As with any family business, everyone does a little bit of everything to help the business succeed. On top of her daily routine of customer service, order entry and billing, Darlene does a lot of the public relations and leads tours of the farms. Tours range from local FFA classes, visiting bus tours and farm tour groups, to groups from the Leadership Highlands program.

Darlene enjoys her involvement in many service and educational groups in the county. She was nominated to be a part of Leadership Highlands a number of years ago. It is a group of 20 to 25 leaders annually, with an understanding and strong commitment to the diversity and strength of Highlands County. “It is a great learning experience,” said Darlene. She is also a member and past board member of the Highlands-Heartland Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association, and has served on the Highlands Agriculture Extension Advisory Council since 2000. Darlene is also a proud member of the Highlands County Cattlewomen’s Association and Florida Ag In the Classroom.

Darlene has served on the government appointed Heartland Early Learning Coalition for two terms, and is also serving her second term on the Highlands County Champions for Children Council.

One of Darlene’s biggest influences on the agriculture industry is Highlands County Ag-Venture, Inc., which she started with her daughter and niece. Held every year at the Highlands County Fairgrounds at the end of October, Ag-Venture is a threeday program for third graders in Highlands County. Approximately 1200 students per year take part in this program to gain experience and appreciation for local agriculture. Students learn

46 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

and get hands on experience at seven of the fourteen stations along the course. For example, students learn about alligators, beef, bees, caladiums, citrus, dairy, forestry, grapes, ornamental horticulture, poultry, strawberries, soil and water conservation, and vegetables. Four to six months out of the year are spent working on putting the program together. “It’s important to teach kids about agriculture. They’re going to be the ones voting one day and they need to have a good voice for agriculture,” said Darlene. Ag-Venture has positively influenced the lives of many of the students, teachers and adults who have attended and helped with the program. Teachers have gotten more excited about incorporating agriculture into their curriculum. Students have become interested in FFA and 4-H programs. Some students have even started their own ag businesses. Volunteers have found a new understanding for the value of agriculture and have started freely sharing their knowledge. Former third grade teacher, Kellie Duke, decided to teach agriculture after taking her class to Ag-Venture. Now, Kellie serves as the Highlands County 4-H Extension Agent.

Ag-Venture has earned numerous state awards. In order to share the success of the program, Darlene has worked with other counties in the state to establish the program in their area. The successful program continues today.

Darlene is also proud of a literacy program that she helped established for Lake Placid in 1975, called RIF – Reading is Fundamental. It is a national program that gives free books to children. All Lake Placid second, third, and fourth graders receive four or five free books per year. For 36 years she has helped distribute these books. Darlene and her friend dress as RIF Clowns to distribute the books at the elementary schools.

Each child is allowed to choose their own book from hundreds that are made available. The day of the distribution also includes a fun informative program. Darlene has met many people who are in their 30’s, who have told her that the only books they ever personally owned as a child were the ones they were given at RIF and that they still treasure those books.

“I love anything to do with kids,” said Darlene. Growing up in Highlands County, working in the family business, and becoming a leader in the agriculture arena, Darlene has established programs for kids and become well respected by every person’s life she has touched.

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Florida FFA is pleased to announce the results of the 2011 State high school Livestock Evaluation Career Development Event (CDE) preliminary. The Livestock Preliminary event was held February 12, 2011 at the Florida State Fair in Tampa. Seventy-one (71) teams from throughout Florida gathered to compete for a chance to qualify for the state championship to be held later this Spring. The final number of teams that will transfer to the state finals will be determined following the second north Florida preliminary to be held February 25. The purpose of the Livestock CDE is to stimulate student interest and learning activities related to the production and management of livestock operations. Florida FFA is very appreciative of the support of our event coordinator Dr. Chad Carr and the University of Florida Department of Animal Sciences. As a matter of procedure, event results are considered unofficial for (2) business days following publishing. It is the responsibility of the FFA Advisor to request and review individual team results. Any appeal must be made to the FFA Executive Secretary in writing for necessary adjustments to be made.

At the close of business on the second business day following publishing, results will be official. The event results are as follows: High School Teams 1 1330 DeLand Sr 2 1311 Chiefland Sr 3 1301 Dade City Sr 4 1294 Durant 5 1278 Braden River 6 1265 Santa Fe Sr 7 1264 Hardee Sr 8 1254 Okeechobee Brahman 9 1248 Charlotte Sr 10 1239 Lake Wales Sr 11 1236 Bell 45 1104 Braden River Jr 12 1234 Haines City Sr 46 1099 Belleview Jr 13 1234 Bunnell Sr 47 1097 Deltona Sr 14 1231 Okeechobee Jr 48 1097 Brooksville Sr 15 1224 Belleview Sr 49 1096 Sebring Sr 16 1216 Tenoroc 50 1090 Gaither 17 1213 Taylor Sr 51 1087 West Florida 18 1211 George Jenkins 52 1081 South Sumter Jr 19 1199 Apopka Sr 53 1075 Hernando Central 20 1196 Frostproof Sr 54 1072 Ocala Westport 21 1196 Bartow Sr 55 1065 Lakewood Ranch Jr 22 1196 South Lake Sr 56 1059 Steinbrenner 23 1196 Dunnellon Sr 57 1045 Wildwood Sr 24 1194 Interlachen Sr 58 1044 Citrus 25 1193 Sarasota Vo-Ag 59 1042 Lakewood Ranch 26 1186 Northview 60 1037 Orlando Colonial Sr 27 1175 Forest 61 1036 Varela 28 1175 East River 62 1035 Brandon 29 1174 West Orange Sr 63 1022 Umatilla Sr 30 1168 North Marion Sr 64 1016 Ft. Pierce Westwood 31 1167 Newsome 65 1001 Wekiva 32 1166 J.F. St. Martin 66 994 Umatilla Jr 33 1159 Newsome Jr 67 993 Freedom 34 1156 Palmetto 68 988 JG Smith 35 1147 Crystal River Senior 69 982 Keystone Heights Sr 36 1146 Moore Haven 70 960 University 37 1132 Sarasota-Riverview 71 723 Wildwood Jr 38 1128 Lake Weir Sr High School Top Individuals 39 1127 Plant City 1 451 Gauge Wolford/DeLand Sr 40 1125 Vanguard Sr 2 447 Destiny McCauley/Hardee Sr 41 1119 South Sumter Sr 3 447 Drake Bishop/DeLand Sr 42 1118 Pine Ridge 4 446 Seth Poppell/Durant 43 1108 Vanguard Jr 44 1105 Land O’ Lakes 5 441 Payton Parnell/Chiefland Sr

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March 2011

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rhonda@inthefieldmagazine.com www.inthefieldmagazine.com INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 47

A Closer Look: Common Eastern Bumble Bee (Bombus impatiens)

“We Meet

By Accident”

A Closer Look:

Common Eastern Bumble Bee (Bombus impatiens)

By Sean Green

COLLISION REPAIR All Insurance Work Welcomed Headlamp Restoration

Photo By April McDonald The role of the bumble bee as a pollinator is common knowledge and rarely disputed. In fact, commercial bumble bees are increasingly becoming a necessity for greenhouse crops due to rapidly changing farming practices. Enlightened farmers recognize the bumble bee as the most efficient pollinator in the bee family and one of our natives, the common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens) has become both the hero and the enemy.

Our native species B. impatiens is shipped to European rearing facilities where colonies are produced and shipped back to the United States for commercial pollination of greenhouse operations. There has been a steady decline in the native population of several North American species of bumble bee since the early to mid 1990’s when this practice began and scientists are suspecting the reliance of imports in the agriculture community are a significant factor in the declining population of our native species. Experts hypothesized that the colonies created from our native population acquired diseases from European species such as the buff tailed bumble bee (Bombus terrestris). Any exotic species, not just Bombus terrestris poses a significant threat to native populations of insects as well as crops. We are exporting our native species to another country, only to have it imported back into the United States with the potential of returning with an exotic disease. With a closer look at our native species, we can understand its needs, preserve native populations, and eliminate the expense of importing what is naturally abundant at home.

Bumble bees are the most important pollinator in our agriculture industry. According to some sources, the estimated value of pollination from wild insects, such as bees, is three billion dollars per year. Of the insects that provide pollination services, the bumble bee is the most effective because of its biological characteristics. The hairs that grow on a bumble bee are structured like a feather rather than a single shaft of hair, this structure enables the bumble bee to hold more pollen that a honey bee. In addition, bumble bees can regulate their body temperature and pollinate in the wintertime when other pollinators are incapable of flight. Honey bees stop flying at 50°, bumble bees can fly in temperatures as low as 41°. Bumble bees have the ability to shiver to regulate body temperature.

Rain and wind that would force wasps and honey bees to their nests do not deter the bumble bee. Crops such as eggplant,

48 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

B

itch

neck H

oose &WG

March 2011

blueberries, and tomatoes are difficult to pollinate without the bumblebee. The bumble bee is one of the few species capable of pollinating such crops because of its Sonication ability, also known as buzz pollination. Sonication is the process of using sound energy to stir or disrupt particles.

Modern technology uses sonication for ultrasonic cleaning, and breaking apart DNA molecules. The bumble bee loosens the pollen with sonication by grabbing the flower with its legs and increasing the rate of its wingbeat.

The common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens) is the local hero for agriculture in Central Florida. The queen creates wax pots for honey and lays her eggs on a ball of pollen then covers it with wax. Positioning the pollen ball near the honey pot, she can feed while brooding.

Like birds, she warms her eggs by laying on them and shivering, generating enough heat to keep the eggs temperature at 86 °.

To maintain her energy she must forage from thousands of flowers per day, each trip causes the eggs to cool, endangering them.

To survive, this species needs a habitat that can offer continuous bloom from April to November. It is critical that flowers are abundant and close enough for short trips from her eggs. At the end of the summer, the only bees that survive are the queens that have mated and find somewhere safe to overwinter.

The seasonal process for this species will begin this month with the surviving mated queens emerging from their overwintering site to collect pollen and nectar and begin nesting. Monoculture farming practices have become a greater threat than the exotic diseases introduced into the United States. Such farming practices have reduced the floral diversity that our most important pollinators need to thrive.

Bordering your crops with native flowering plants will keep bumble bees working your fields all season. The queen will look for a soft, protected site to build a nest, preferably in abandoned rodent burrows, but will also nest in hollow trees, compost piles, or any concealed dry cavity near the ground, boxes can be constructed to suffice. The most important feature is a continuous food source. If there are flowering plants year-long within a short flight to her young, the opportunistic bumble bee will become a yearly companion.

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 49

Naturally Amazing Activities BUMBLE BEE NEST

by Sean Green

Attracting beneficial insects to our gardens or crops can be a very rewarding experience, not only for crop yield and garden health, but also for the value of really learning about and understanding the insect. This month, fertile queen bumble bees will begin emerging from their overwintering and begin looking for a suitable nesting site. Avoid disturbing the selection process, if disturbed before she is settled in, she will find a safer place to nest. Queens that are seen carrying pollen on their legs have already found a site nearby. You can try following them to make sure they will have flowers through the season in their nesting area.

There are many designs scattered throughout the internet, some are large projects more suitable for a farm setting such as a “Bee Wall”, while others are small projects perfect for attracting a small colony to your home garden. The project I have illustrated this month is small and simple enough for children to create with parental supervision and is similar to a common site in the wild, (a log with a rodent cavity underneath it).

Materials: • •

•

• •

Trowel Nesting Material (upholsterers cotton, animal hair, soft string, scraps of dry moss) Entrance marker (rock, ornament, standing twig) Chicken wire or small twigs Nest Cover (Log, untreated panel of wood, slab)

50 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

• •

Things to keep in mind when selecting the site: • Nest must remain dark, dry, and well ventilated • Leave patches of rough grass surrounding the nest site, and markers near the entrance (for navigation) Entrance holes face east or southeast, (for warmth of the morning sun.)

Abundant blooming flowers from February through November

DIRECTIONS: 1. Dig a pit four or five inches deep and about ten inches square in a place that there is no risk of flooding.

2.

Dig one inch channels on the east / southeast side for the entrance, as well as a couple elsewhere for ventilation.

3. Make the entrance hole obvious by placing an entrance marker near it, bees need this for navigation.

4. Place nesting material on top of chicken wire or twigs (for ventilation) then place within the nest cavity.

5.

Cover the nest cavity with a log, thick piece of untreated wood, or slab.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 51

Certified Public Accountants

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By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicine, B.S. Nutrition Science An amazing root vegetable that is often carved into a decorative garnish, the radish packs a big nutritional punch, as well as a mild peppery flavor. As a member of the Brassicaceae family, radishes are related to other cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage.

Florida is the top radish producing state in the United States.

According to the Florida Department of Agriculture, the state harvests over 30 percent of the country’s radish acreage and the value of the state’s radish crop is estimated at $30 million a year.

Florida radishes are available from October through June and are at their peak now. Florida radishes have a crisp texture and an earthy, spicy taste.

Nutritional Profile

Radishes are not only delicious, but also very low in calories and free of fat, cholesterol, and sodium. The entire vegetable is edible, including its green leafy tops, reddish skin, and white flesh. In fact, the leafy green tops of radishes contain six times the amount of vitamin C found in the root, as well as iron, calcium and thiamine.

Along with the other cruciferous vegetables, radishes contain multiple anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial compounds.

Eating more cruciferous vegetables have been associated with a lower incidence of a variety of cancers, including those of the lung, colon, breast, ovaries and bladder. Current research studies have shown that people who eat the most cruciferous vegetables have a much lower risk of prostate, colorectal and lung cancers, even when compared to those who regularly eat other vegetables.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one half cup of raw sliced radish (58 g) contains 9 calories, 0.39 g protein, 0.06 g fat, 1.97 g carbohydrate, and 0.9 g of dietary fiber.

It also provides 14 percent for vitamin C, 4 percent for potassium, dietary fiber, and folate, 2 percent for vitamin B6 and manganese, and significant amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, riboflavin, vitamin K, and zinc.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is important for a healthy immune system, cancer prevention, healthy blood circulation and wound healing. It may also offer protection from heart disease. By neutralizing harmful free radicals, antioxidants prevent damage to the artery walls, which could later lead to plaque formation and subsequent narrowing of the vessel. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may decrease the risk of cancer by protecting cells from free radical damage.

This vitamin has many other useful roles. It may aid in preventing cataracts, a leading cause of blindness in older adults.

Also involved in wound healing, vitamin C is important in collagen production. This vitamin also helps the body absorb more iron and aids in the development of strong bones and teeth.

Current research findings support that Vitamin C’s benefits come from consumption of whole fruits and vegetables. A

52 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

Radish high intake of produce, including radishes, is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes, including heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Taking supplements does not seem to provide the same protective benefits as eating raw or cooked produce.

Potassium

Potassium plays an important role in muscle contraction, nerve function and blood pressure regulation. In the heart and other muscles, this electrolyte is essential for the contraction and relaxation of muscles. Potassium is also required for energy metabolism and is involved in protein and carbohydrate metabolism. This mineral is important for normal growth and for building muscle. Along with sodium, potassium regulates the water balance and the acid-base balance in the body. In nerve cells, potassium plays an essential role in the conduction of nerve impulses. It also helps generate muscle contractions and regulates the heartbeat. Radishes and many other fruits and vegetables are rich sources of this important mineral.

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LOOK WHO’S READING

Radishes and other cruciferous vegetables contain a significant amount of dietary fiber, which can help lower cholesterol, assist with digestion, and prevent constipation. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, a diet high in fiber may decrease the risk of several types of cancer including colon, rectum, breast, and pancreas.

How to Select and Store

Choose smooth, brightly colored radishes that are free of blemishes or soft spots. If the green leafy tops are still attached, they should look fresh and bright in color. Pick smaller ones, which usually have a better flavor than larger ones. Radishes can be refrigerated in a perforated plastic bag for up to 10-14 days, but remove tops before storing.

How to Enjoy

In addition to using radishes in salads or carving them into swans and roses, try some other exciting ways of eating them: • Shredded and used as a sandwich topper • Pickled • Sliced and tossed in a stir-fry • Sautéed with butter and herbs • Roasted with olive oil in the oven • Baked and mashed as an addition to mashed potatoes • Braised with apple juice • Grated and added to chicken or tuna salad Enjoy fresh Florida radishes today. With their satisfying crunch and peppery flavor, radishes can add flavor to any dish as well as boost its nutrition at the same time.

Selected References

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://www.florida-agriculture.com http://www.ipmcenters.org/cropprofiles/docs/FLradish.pdf

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 53

2011 Desoto County Youth Livestock Show

FACTORY TRAINED WARRANTY AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER

by Bailey Lyons exhibitors despite heavy This year was another great year for all the in nearby towns around us. rain, wicked wind and tornados spotted s weighing between 950lbs The classes started at 7:00 PM with the steer n Lipe, Ashlan Lipe, Ryla were ion to 985lbs. The exhibitors in this divis ell, and Alexis Stinson. Taking Justin Fussell, Tyler Chandler, Beth Fuss first in class was Beth Fussell. between 1010 and 1020, the exhibiIn the second class, with the Steers weighing ng n Deriso, and Allen Michael Floyd. Taki tors were Baylee Paul, Caleb Shelfer, Jillia first in class was Jillian Deriso. lbs and the exhibiters were Justin In the third class steers were more than 1045 er. Taking first in class was Shelf Olivia Wilson, Robb Adams, Cody Fussel, and Justin Wilson.

1060lbs and 1120lbs, the exhibiters In the fourth class the steers were between a FFA Chapter Steer), Kodi Strickland, Mar were Jacob Langfang, Zackary Wells (Sr d. klan Stric Kodi was class Holton, and Wyatt Paul. Taking first in between 1135lbs to 1155lbs the exhibiIn the fifth class with the steer weighing y er, Landon Turner, Luke Fields, and Baile ters were Hector Manriquez, Katie Turn er.

Turn on Land was ng first in class Lyons (Steer shown by Krista Court). Taki between 1160lbs to 1180lbs the hing weig s steer the with class sixth In the ter Steer), Jared Deriso, Josie Deriso, Chap (4-H exhibitors were Jaclyn Rickenbrode ng first in class was Jaclyn Rickenbrode Philip Turner, and Oscar Manriquez. Taki (4-H Chapter Steer). s weighing between 1200lbs to And finally the Seventh class, with the steer n Markey, Bailey Turner, Javier Kaly z, rique 1340lbs, the exhibitors were Brian Man first in class was Edgar Cependa.

Hernandez, and Edgar Cependa. Taking r Cependa. His steer weighed in at This years 2011Grand Champion was Edga Reserve Grand Champion was Kalyn 1340lbs and this was his first year showing. lb.

Markey and her steer weighed in at 1215 manship was Justin Fussell, with second Show Sr win to Coming back in the ring place to Jillian Deriso. In Jr. Showmanplace going to Kodi Strickland, and third nd place going to Josie Deriso, and third ship Robb Adams was the winner with seco place Ashlan Lipe.

Champion steer went for $3.00 a Friday night’s sale went well. The Grand the Reserve Grand Champion went for pound, purhased by Arcadia Stockyard and ells Citrus Inc. $2.40 a pound and was purchased by Sorr

54 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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Almost all oil production on Alaska’s North Slope remains shut down after workers on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline system discovered a leak over the second weekend of January 2011.

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Bank of America started as Bank of Italy.

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Thanksgiving was held twice in 1815.

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The aspirin was discovered during an experiment.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 55

IFAS Updates Frank Stronach Plant Science Center University of Florida officials announced Wednesday that construction of a much-needed conference center will begin soon at the university’s Plant Science Research and Education Unit (PSREU) in Citra, Fla. thanks to $1.5 million gift from Frank Stronach, founder and Chairman of Magna International Inc. The 5,380-square-foot multipurpose building will be accompanied by a 7,000-square-foot open pavilion to accommodate year-round educational programs at the site, which is operated by UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

In recognition of the gift, the building will be named the Frank Stronach Plant Science Center.

Stronach has been a longtime advocate of the research conducted by the PSREU and wanted to show his support for the successful future of the operation and its educational component.

“Investment in agricultural research is vital to ensure that we will be able to boost crop yields and enhance food quality for the future, particularly in the growing field of all-natural food production,” said Stronach. “The Plant Science Center at Citra will play an important role in conducting and disseminating innovative plant research and scientific breakthroughs related to crop management.”

Magna International Inc. is one the world’s largest suppli-

ers of automotive components, systems and modules (NYSE: MGA). Magna employs more than 92,000 people in 248 manufacturing operations and 81 product development and engineering centers in 25 countries.

What currently makes up the PSREU site was the home to UF cattle research from 1972 to 1995. UF/ IFAS then began to consolidate its agronomic, fruit and vegetable operation there.

PRSEU now consists of 22 buildings on 1,068 acres hosting more than 150 UF/IFAS researchers and over 600 projects. Research areas include trees, turf, crop management, plant pathology and fertility, vegetables, citrus, entomology, nematology and weed science, among others.

“Mr. Stronach’s gift will allow us to complete a 23-building complex devoted to all facets of plant research,” said Daniel Colvin, director of research programs for the PSREU. “The anchor conference center building will become the focal point for all educational and outreach activities to make the general public aware of research innovations discovered by UF/IFAS.” The Frank Stronach Plant Science Center will contain three multi-use meeting rooms, which can be combined to seat up to 300.

UF/IFAS officials expect construction on the building to get under way in the spring and be completed by fall.

Farm Tour Glades County School Board Member, Janet Storey, hosted a tour of her farm for the Hendry/ Glades Youth Leadership group.

The purpose of the tour was to see and a working farm and learn of the various careers available in the agriculture industry.

This group of high school juniors and seniors were chosen by their school to take part in the leadership program. Heading up the group is Kim Hamilton, Aid to State Representative Denise Grimsley. The students were treated to a grilled steak lunch prepared by Mrs. Storey and her sons-in-law. Also on hand to discuss the importance, career choices and leadership in agriculture was Joe Flint, Glades County Clerk of Courts.

56 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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Citrus Update:

GAPs–Good Agricultural Practices

by Justin Smith Good Agricultural Practices, or GAPs for Florida Citrus Growers - If you are like me, when you first see this you will more than likely begin thinking one of two things. Either you really don’t need another acrostic to remember or what is this going to cost me? It never fails. We have hit some highs in the citrus industry lately so of course there is going to be something else to eat away at those profits, right? Well, it may not be quite as bad as the imagination first speculates.

At this point GAPs are not a law for Florida citrus. They are just suggestions of self regulatory guidelines. If, as an industry, we take the responsibility upon ourselves to self regulate, then if and when these do become mandatory it will be a much easier transition. Also the regulatory organization, which will oversee their implementation, will be far less likely to impose harsh rules and go with what we have already adopted and implemented ourselves.

We can also look at GAPs from a completely different angle.

These are not just something to give us more work. The basis is rooted in keeping people healthy and to prevent food-borne illnesses. With the society we live in today, a single outbreak has the potential to affect hundreds of thousands of people in a very short amount of time. As food producers we should do our part to minimize this from happening. Further more, how many industries have lost millions of dollars in revenue due to nothing more than accusations that they were responsible for just such an outbreak? GAPs give us a resource to protect our livelihood from false allegations as well.

The current GAPs document focuses on seven principles for growers to consider. Most of them are common sense steps in preventing food contamination and are already being implemented. This makes GAPs that much easier in that we do most of these things already. The seven principle areas are; 1) Water, 2) Soil, Manure and Municipal Biosolids, 3) Animal Control, 4) Chemical Use, 5) Worker Health and Hygiene, 6) Field Sanitation, Harvest and Transport, 7) Traceability and Record Keeping.

Water can actually carry and disperse many pollutants to products and we use a lot of it. With citrus we are fortunate that our irrigation water is not of the greatest threat because our fruit is up and away from the direct contact. However there are plenty of times we do apply water directly to the fruit. The basics of the GAPs pertaining to water are that it is of adequate quality for its intended use. In other words you are not using septic pump out water for your nutritional sprays. It may be just a little more in-depth than that but you now get the idea. It is pretty much common sense. Simply use water you know is not already

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contaminated.

Soil, Manure and Municipal Biosolids: If you use any type of manure or biosolids keep good documentation on it. This should include things such as when, where and how it was applied. During the application take precautions to minimize contact with fruit. These products can carry a countless number of pathogens for possible contamination so be aware of how it is being handled.

Animal Control: This is one of the very controversial issues between scientific perfection and real world possibilities. Currently the wording is that, IF warranted, practical efforts to minimize intrusion should be undertaken. If for no other reason than this single issue we should be willing to self-regulate ourselves.

If we adopt practices and show we do what is necessary then we stand a much better chance of avoiding unrealistic rules being created and imposed on us.

Chemical Use: There is really nothing here we do not already do. It simply states we only use chemicals that are labeled for citrus and that we use them in accordance with their labels. Not much to consider there.

Worker Health and Hygiene: Much as with the chemical use we already do most of these things. They are already regulated by other entities. GAPs do suggest training workers in good personal hygiene and keeping records of the training.

Field Sanitation, Harvest and Transport: Mostly done by harvesters but it is also suggested to keep a record of sanitation of equipment used in the production of fruit as well.

Traceability and Record Keeping: This is the single most important part of the entire idea of a self-regulated GAPs program. Everything can be done to absolute perfection in all other categories. Fruit could be completely sanitized piece by piece but if there is no record or way to prove it then it may as well not have happened. Do not underestimate this crucial step in any process. Do not allow it to become neglected with all the other desk clutter. Keep your records accurate and up to date.

This is a very brief overview of GAPs. Currently there is a “Good Agricultural Practices for Florida Citrus Growers” draft document. The document and other information can be obtained from the University of Florida IFAS website. It is encouraged that anyone involved in the citrus industry become familiar with this. It is not something that is going to be forgotten. One day, like it or not, each and every person producing citrus will be following some type of GAPs. It is, at this point, our choice to make it the way we want it or allow a regulation agency to do it for us.

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 57

AgCalendar

Chalo-Nitka Festival and Rodeo February 19-March 6–Moore Haven

What’s going on InTheField?

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Sugarland Tours—Mon. - Fri. 10a - 2:30p, Clewiston Chamber of Commerce 877-693-4372

•

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March*—Florida Lawnracing Association Races at Avon Park Mower Plex. www.floridalawnracing.net; 863-453-3350

March 13—South Florida Seaplane Fly-In on Lake Jackson at Sunset Grill Restaurant, Sebring 10a-4p. 561-414-6865

•

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March*—Annual Bass Tournament at Lake June.

Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce. 863465-4331

March 14-19—Okeechobee County Livestock Show & Sale, Agri-Civic Center, Okeechobee.

863-763-1666

•

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March 1—Okeechobee Rodeo, Okeechobee

March 16-19—59th Annual Mobile 1-Twelve Hours of Sebring Auto Race, Sebring International Raceway. 863-655-1442

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March 2-6—43rd Annual Pioneer Park Days, Zolfo Springs. One of the largest, and is the oldest antique tractor, steam engine and farm equipment show in the southeast, flea market. 863-735-0330

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March 3-13—Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City

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March 4—DeSoto Arts & Humanities Council presents Cabaret, Arcadia

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March 4-6—Chalo Nitka Festival & Rodeo 1st weekend March, Chalo Nitka Park, Moore Haven.

Big Bass Fishing Tournament, parade, carnival rides, arts/food/crafts booths, bands, cloggers, alligator wrestling, snake handling. Traditional Seminole clothing contest, community dance, Ranch Rodeo Fri & Sat nights. 863-946-0440

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March 5—Bird Watching Tours at STAS led by Hendry-Glades Audobon, Clewiston 863-674-0695

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March 8—IFAS Citrus Safety Seminar 7a - 11a 863-993-4846

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March 11-13—83rd Annual Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo, Arcadia 863-494-2014

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March 11-30—Okeechobee County Fair & Livestock Show, Agri-Civic Center, Okeechobee. 863763-1666

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March 18—Friday Night Live! 3rd Fri. monthly, Main Street Heritage Park in Downtown Wauchula. 5-9p. 863-767-0330

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March 19—7th Annual Pioneer Day, 9a-4p DeSoto Park on SR70, just west of Arcadia. Antique engines, frontier shoot-out, children’s “Discover History” area, vintage cars, more. historicdesoto.org

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March 19—Central Florida Poultry Breeders Show starts at 7a, free to public

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March 20—Rodeo Grill Motorcycle Round-up 3rd Sun. monthly, 1p, rain or shine, LaBelle. 239-2463045

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March 24-27—Big “O” Birding Festival of Hendry and Glades counties, Historic Clewiston Inn. www. bigobirdingfestival.com; 863-612-4783

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March 24-27—Bird Watching Tours at STAS led

by Hendry-Glades Audobon, Clewiston. In conjunction with the Big “O” Birding Festival. 863-6740695

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March 26—Ropin’ In the Swamp Team Roping Event at UF Horse Teaching Unit, Gainesville

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March 26-27—Orchid Society Show, Bert J. Harris Jr. Agri-Civic Center, Sebring. 863-465-2380

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March 12—Saturday Morning Market 2nd Sat. monthly, Stuart Park, Uptown Lake Placid, 8a-1p.

Produce, live plants and silks, food, wine, jewelry, pottery, arts and crafts available. 863-465-4331

March 27—Harvey L. Rubin Food Animal Veterinarian Conference, Kissimmee

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March 29—DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce Business Showcase, Turner Center, Arcadia, 3-7p; 863-494-4033

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March 12—Grass Growing Seminar 863-993-4846

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April 2—Adams Ranch Genuine Ranch Rodeo, Ft. Pierce

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March 12-13—Okeechobee Cattleman’s Spring PRCA Rodeo, Agri-Civic Center, Okeechobee. 863763-1666

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April 2—UF/IFAS Performance Horse Short Course & Trade Show, Clewiston

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March 12-13—3rd Annual Okeechobee Spring Festival, Downtown Okeechobee. 863-763-6464

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April 6—IFAS/CALS Gator Gathering, Sebring

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58 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

* Date to be determined.

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Chalo Nitka, Seminole for “The Day of the Big Bass,” was first celebrated in Moore Haven, FL, in 1948 to commemorate the paving of what was Main Street. The week long series of events has evolved into the Glades County Fair, displaying southern hospitality of county members, as well as their friends from the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The 2011 Chalo Nitka events began with the annual pageant held on February 19, the Bass Fishing Tournament on February 26,

and the Dairy Show on February 28. March 1 – 3 events will be Swine Show, Steer Show, Pee Wee Show, and Livestock Sale. The fair opens on Friday, March 4 at 5:00 p.m. with the Chalo Nitka Rodeo at 7:00 p.m. at Bronson Arena. Daily events planned for Saturday and Sunday include live music, alligator wrestling and snake handling, and much more at the Chalo Nitka Park. For more information, please visit www. chalonitka.com.

UF/IFAS Performance Horse Short Course & Trade Show April 2–Hendry County Fairgrounds, Clewiston The UF/IFAS Performance Horse Short Course & Trade Show will be held Saturday, April 2 at the Hendry County Fairgrounds in Clewiston. The tentative agenda includes topics on Alternative Medicine, Digestive Problems, Wound Treatment, Hooves, and Equine Anatomy. Registration fees

if posted by March 18 are $15 ($5 for 4-H and FFA members), and include lunch and trade show admission. Late registration fees are $30 and $10. For more information, contact Lindsey Wiggins at 863.674.4092, horse1@ufl.edu or Bridget Carlisle at 863.519.8677, bccarlis@ufl.edu.

April 26–Agricultural Literacy Day 2011 Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam will participate in the eighth annual Florida Agriculture Literacy Day on Tuesday, April 26, and invites agriculture industry experts and Florida teachers to register to participate in this year’s event.

In its eighth year, Agriculture Literacy Day 2011 will highlight different careers related to Florida agriculture. On April 26, registered participants, including Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services employees, University of Florida IFAS Extension Agents, 4-H Agents and Master Gardeners, Florida Farm Bureau members, Florida Cattlemen and Cattlewomen members, FFA teachers, students, and other agriculture industry representatives, will read to students throughout Florida.

Individuals who play a role in the agriculture industry

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and are interested in participating in Agriculture Literacy Day or teachers who would like to request a reader visit their classroom can visit www.agtag.org to sign up by April 15.

Florida Agriculture Literacy Day is led by Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc., a non-profit organization that develops and trains teachers and agriculture industry volunteers in its agricultural curricula and materials, which they in turn use to educate students about the importance of agriculture.

Florida Agriculture in the Classroom provides the Agriculture Literacy Day books and other materials to readers free of charge through funding received from sales of the agriculture specialty license plate known as the Ag Tag.

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 59

Heartland’s Growing Businesses

Heartland’s Growing Businesses E D G E WO O D L A N D S C A P E COMMERCIAL

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To advertise your business in Heartland’s Growing Business Showcase, please call 813-708-3661 Please patronize these fine businesses in your area.

60 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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To advertise your business in Heartland’s Growing Business Showcase, please call 813-708-3661

Please patronize these fine businesses in your area. www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

February 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 61

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SR 72 frontage and Kings Highway. Pasture, fenced, native trees, oak trees, house circa early 1900’s. Easy drive to Pt. Charlotte or Sarasota. $225,000 Call Coldwell Banker Gamiotea Realty at 863-494-3600

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1984 KUBOTA B6200

With loader, 1524 hrs., 4wd, 34hp, open rops, hydrostatic trans., 3pt. hitch, pto, + mid pto for belly mower (not included) ag tires, RUNS GREAT! $11,000 call Wayne @ (813)477-8750 for pictures visit www. usedtractors-equipment.com

3,952 hours. $29,469 Call 863-698-4114 2 wd, w/4 ft. Finish Mower $3,000 • 863-698-2967 HOMOSASSA LOT

One acre lot, high & dry, approx. 100 yds.

From the Mason Creek River. Fishing & Boating Heaven! 813-503-9033 WANTED UTILITY/POWER POLES

Call Robert 863-735-0808 or 863-445-0358 (cell) HAY FOR SALE

4 X 5 rolls. Tifton 44, Star Grass, clean Bahia Grass. Delivery available.

Call Charlie 813-763-4967 ANGUS FREEZER BEEF

$2.75/lb. cut and wrapped. Whole, Half or Quarter. Cash, Mastercard or Visa 863-206-2828 2004 MASSEY FERGUSON 461-2-55

pto hp, 2 wheel drive, shuttle shift, hydrolic remotes. $10,500.

Call 813-752-8722

62 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

Includes up to 6 shooters, lunches, use of shooting cart, Gold Sponsorship signage and recognition during awards ceremony

• Team SponSorShip $400.00

Includes 4 shooters, lunches & a station sponsorship sign on course

• STaTion SponSorShip $100.00

2007 KUBOTA TRACTOR M9540

1083 hrs., 4wd, 96hp, folding open rops, hydraulic shuttle shift, 3pt. hitch, pto, 2 remotes, w/ag tires, tilt steering. Premium condition! Runs Excellent!!!! $22,000. Call Wayne @ (813)477-8750 for pictures visit www.usedtractors-equipment.com

Includes sign on a course station

• individual ShooTinG $100.00

Includes 100 target shooting round & lunch

ReseRvation FoRm Please sign me up for:

Nottlely River Access Cabin #204623

One bedroom & one bath with great room and wood-burning fireplace. Back porch faces the woods for privacy. Mtn. views year round! Comes furnished $142,000.

Call and ask for Jane Baer with Jane Baer Realty. 800-820-7829

March 2011

11th annual

spoRting Clays touRnament 100 Target Clay Shoot

• Great Shooting • Fellowship • Lunch • Exciting Prizes • Raffle

Additional raffle tickets will be sold during event.

o Gold o Team o Station o Individual - Additional Lunches $25.00

o Enclosed is my check for $ __________________________ or o Bill me $ _______________________________ Sponsor name _______________________________________Contact name ________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone _______________________________________________Fax _________________________________________ please include team member names on the back of this form. For additional info call 863-385-5141 Mail or Fax form to HC Farm Bureau, 6419 US Hwy 27 S, Sebring, FL 33876, Fax 863-385-5356 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

ShooT parTicipaTion www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

limiTed ToMarch firST paid enTranTS 2011 300INT HEFIELD M AGAZINE 63

If it swims, crawls or hops, we probably serve it!

Whether freshly peeled shrimp, shucked Apalachicola oysters or fresh saltwater fish that we process in-house, Lightsey’s takes pride in its quality seafood selections.

“If taste was the only sense given, that alone would be enough to make one return to Lightsey’s Seafood Restaurant time and time again.”

863-763-4276