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JANUARY 2020 VOL. 15 • ISSUE 3
CONTENTS A TRADITION TO REMEMBER THE VARNUM FAMILY
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Hillsborough County Farm Bureau 305 S. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL. Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Insurance Services: 813-685-5673 Member Services: 813-685-9121
OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PAGE 12 Fire Fest
PAGE 44 Mini - Grants
PAGE 16 H-2A
PAGE 48 John Dicks
PAGE 18 Fishing Hot Spots
PAGE 50 Endangered Species
PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter
PAGE 54 Recipes
PAGE 24 Lew James Prosser
PAGE 56 Literary Time
PAGE 26 Wooden Spoon
Machine
PAGE35 Sage
Activity
PAGE 60 PAGE 61
PAGE 36 Jack Payne
A Closer Look
PAGE 62
PAGE 38 Raptor Center
News Briefs
PAGE 42 State Fair Schedule
Hey Readers!
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InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377 • Plant City, Fl. 33566-0042 *Winners will be notified by phone. You Too Can Be A Winner! INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
DIRECTORS FOR 2018 - 2019 Christina Andrlik, Carl Bauman, Jake Cremer, Tiffany Dale, Carson Futch, Jim Frankowiak, Chip Hinton, John Joyner, Lawrence McClure, Sambahv, Vincent Tort, Will Womack, Gayle Yanes
Judi Whitson, Executive Director 813-685-9121 Farm Bureau Insurance Special Agents
Valrico Office 813-685-5673
100 S. Mulrennan Rd., Valrico, FL. 33594 Tommy Hale, CLU, ChFC, CASL, CPCU Agency Mgr. Julie Carlson, Amy Engle
Plant City Office 813.752.5577
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 No Farmers No Food Sticker. Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the number of the page which you found the logo and where on the page you located the logo to the address below
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Dennis Carlton, Jr.....................President Jake Raburn................Vice President Tony Lopez..............Treasurer Buddy Coleman..................Secretary
January 2020
305 S. Wheeler St., Plant City, FL 33563 Jeff Summer Artis Griffin
Tampa Office 813.933.5440
6535 Gunn Highway, Tampa, FL.33625 Greg Harrell, Jared Bean
AGENCY MANAGER Thomas O. Hale WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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STAFF
Letter from the Editor
Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Patsy Berry Editor
Happy New Year! We are so happy to continue to cover what’s growing in 2020.
Sales Melissa Nichols Karen Berry Sarah Holt George Domedion
Now that the holidays are over it is time for fair season. The Polk County Youth Fair kicks things off in January. This true agriculture fair will be held the 25th through the 31st in Bartow. Students compete for ribbons in a wide range of events with livestock, plants, table settings and much more.
Creative Director/Illustrator Juan Alvarez
Following the PCYF is the Florida State Fair. Held February 6 – 17, this fair hosts students from across the Sunshine State. FFA and 4-H students compete in a variety of events throughout the fair.
Distribution Bob Hughens
Finally, the Florida Strawberry Festival is held February 27 – March 8. The 11-day event is held in Plant City and more than 500,000 visitors enjoy this celebration of the harvest of the strawberry.
Photography Karen Berry Stephanie Humphrey
When attending these events, take time to take a closer look at some of the projects the FFA and 4-H students have been working on over the past year. The lessons they learn are invaluable and each participant should be proud of their hard work. See you at the fair!
Sarah Holt
Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Contributing Writers Woody Gore John Dicks
In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Hillsborough County businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Grower’s Association.
The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25
Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909 Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by 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.
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Published by Berry Publications, Inc.
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Looking Forward to a Great Year HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
-Dennis Carlton Jr. - President
Greetings, We are well into 2020, and I am looking forward to a very good year for our organization and industry. Hillsborough County Farm Bureau has a strong board of directors, and a hard-working group of volunteers. As we move forward please mark your calendars for several important events. The first is taking place this month on the 18th under the auspices of our Young Farmer and Rancher group. This is a tour of Audubon Ranch along with lunch and the opportunity to learn about Farm Bureau and its diverse activities in support of agriculture. To keep our strong momentum, it is very important for us to continue to engage volunteers. There will be more on this subject in next month’s edition of IN THE FIELD Magazine. The Florida State Fair dates are February 6 – 17, and that annual event offers a variety of opportunities for us to recognize the many achievements of our industry, its rich history in Florida and the leaders of tomorrow who will be participating in many competitive events at the Fair. Judi Whitson, our Executive Director, is looking for volunteers to help during the Fair. Please call her at 813-685-9121 if you are interested in lending a hand.
chance of our industry to be recognized for its significant economic contributions to our county, state and nation. Also upcoming Aril 28-30 is Farm Bureau’s annual “Field to the Hill” trip during which a group of our members travel to Washington, D.C. to meet with our Congressman and Senators to discuss the initiatives that are important to our industry and to answer any questions those lawmakers may have about Florida agriculture. I will have more specific information on that initiative in the months ahead. In addition, there are countless other activities that offer chances for us to have the “Voice of Agriculture” heard. We are truly blessed with a very solid leadership group and committed volunteers, and we would welcome others interested in participating. If you and your family have an interested in learning more about Farm Bureau and the opportunities and benefits membership offers, please contact us. Visit: www.hcfarmbureau.org or call our office in Plant City at 813/685-9121.
Dennis Carlton Jr. Dennis Carlton Jr. - President
February 27- March 8 is another period of importance and recognition for our industry. Those are the dates of the 2020 Florida Strawberry Festival. That annual event is another
305 SOUTH WHEELER STREET • PLANT CITY, FL 33566 • 813-685-9121 Board of Directors
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Dennis Carlton, Jr. , President; Jake Raburn, Vice-President; Tony Lopez Treasurer; Buddy Coleman, Secretary; Christina Andrlik, Carl Bauman, Jake Cremer, Tiffany Dale, Carson Futch, Jim Frankowiak, Chip Hinton, John Joyner, Lawrence McClure, Sambahv,Jay Marty Tanner, Vincent Tort, Will Womack, Gayle Yanes Judi Whitson, Executive Director
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January 2020
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ANNUAL FIRE FEST SET FOR FEBRUARY 1 AT MEDARD PARK
By Jim Frankowiak Hillsborough County’s Conservation and Environmental Lands Management Department will hold its Second Annual Prescribed Fire Fest Saturday, February 1, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Edward Medard Conservation Park, 5410 Turkey Creek Road. Plant City, FL 33567. The park entrance is approximately one mile south of State Road 60 in eastern Hillsborough County, south of Plant City.
lightning-caused fires. Blazes of this type encourage new growth, thin out ground cover that can crowd out other plant species and can also help control insect infestations.
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The county also wants to remind residents that for most open burning a permit is required. Camp fires, bonfires, ceremonial and religious fires each require a permit from the Hillsborough County Fire MarThe county is encouraging the public to “join our Wildland Fire Man- shal’s office. There is no charge for permits and the number to call agement Team and discover first-hand the vital role prescribed fire is 813-744-5541. There are exceptions to the permit requirement if a plays in protecting and maintaining our natural communities and small fire pit, like those sold at home improvement or other stores is ecosystems.” Florida’s ecosystems have been shaped by both human- being used. When using a fire pit, you may burn only clean, dry wood; caused and nature-caused wildland fire for centuries. “Today, we use the pit must be located a minimum of 25-feet from any structure and prescribed fire to create and support healthy habitats for wildlife and the pit may only be used for keeping warm or cooking. reduce the risk of wildfires,” said Steve Raymond, who leads HillsborLand clearing for construction or agricultural reasons that involves ough County’s Wildland Fire Team. open burning requires permits from the Hillsborough County EnviEvents planned for the Fire Fest include prescribed burn demonstra- ronmental Protection Commission (EPC). Telephone: 813-627-2600. tions, games for kids, guided nature walks, live music and free food. A Email: epcinfo@epchc.org. Examples include: initial land clearing of vegetation; initial land clearing for mineral operations, clearing of helicopter water bucket drop is also scheduled. rights-of-way for public highways or roads and clearing for flood conThere is no charge or registration required to attend the event, but trol and water drainage channels. a $2 park entry fee must be paid by each vehicle entering the park. Attendees are to gather at the Park’s Shelter #6. Attendees under 18 Railroad workers and farmers needing agricultural burning are directmust be accompanied by an adult, and weather related cancellations ed to the Florida Forest Service’s Lakeland office, telephone: 863/9406701. This office of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Conare possible. sumer Services administers Florida’s outdoor burning and forest fire In addition to decreasing the potential for large fires, prescribed laws, and recommends that residents know the law, both state and burns can help the environment by mimicking the natural cycle of local, for any restrictions before conducting an outdoor burn.
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The Florida Forest Service notes that escaped debris burning is one of the leading causes of wildfires in Florida. Yard waste, such as vegetative debris that is the result of yard maintenance, may be burned as long as such a burn is in compliance with local laws, required setbacks are observed, the burn pile will fit in an eight-foot diameter pile or non-combustible container and materials to be burned originated from your property. Additionally, such fires may be ignited after 9 a.m. Eastern Time and must be extinguished one hour before sunset. It is illegal to burn household garbage including paper products, treated lumber, plastics, rubber materials, tires, and pesticide, paint and aerosol containers. Piles greater than eight-feet in diameter require an authorization from the Florida Forest Service and the presence of suppression equipment and compliance with additional setback requirements. The Florida Forest Service also offers the following outdoor burning tips: • Clear an area down to bare soil around your pile to prevent the fire from spreading • Cover a non-combustible container with wire mesh to keep sparks from flying out and starting new fires • Check with local city and county officials for any applicable restrictions • Keep burn piles 25-feet from forests; 50-feet from paved public roads; 25-feet from your home and 150-feet from occupied buildings
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FIRE FEST, CALL 813-853-1177.
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January 2020
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H-2A: WHAT IT IS
HOW IT WORKS AND HOPED FOR IMPROVEMENTS By Jim Frankowiak The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) authorizes the lawful admission of temporary, non-immigrant works (H-2A workers) to perform agricultural labor or services of a temporary or seasonal nature. Seasonal growers have come to rely heavily on H-2A workers and they now comprise nearly 10 percent of the farm labor force nationally. Florida, along with Georgia, Washington, North Carolina and California, constitute the top five states utilizing foreign workers under the H-2A program. In 2005, approximately 48,000 temporary agricultural jobs were filled by non-immigrant workers, and that number has grown to more than 242,000 in 2018. It is vital to note that without H-2A workers seasonal producers would not be able to grow, harvest and market their commodities as domestic farm workers have migrated into the construction and hospitality sectors. Also, domestic workers who are available have become unreliable in finishing a growing season. Employers wishing to hire H-2A workers must prove to the satisfaction of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that there are not sufficient U.S. workers willing, qualified or able to perform the labor described in the employer’s DOL ETA 790 petition and no adverse effects on the wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers will occur. Further, H-2A employers must provide employment to any qualified, eligible US. Worker who applies for the job opportunity until 50 percent of the period the work contract has elapsed. If a U.S. worker is hired after the arrival of a foreign H-2A visa holder, the H-2A visa holder may be displaced in favor of the U.S. worker. Additionally, employers must offer U.S. workers terms and working conditions which are not less favorable than those offered to H-2A workers.
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Employers must pay ALL workers performing the same tasks described in the work contract the highest of the following applicable wage rates in effect at the time work is performed: the adverse effect wage rate (AEWR), the applicable prevail-
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ing wage, the agreed-upon collective bargaining rate or the Federal or State statutory minimum wage. The AEWR for 2019 in Florida is $11.24 per hour. On January 1 that rate has been set to increase to $11.71, the 4 percent will have to be paid by growers even though workers were recruited and hired under the 2019 rate of $11.24. Had the rate been lowered for 2020, growers would have to pay the higher rate that workers were recruited and hired under. All H-2A workers must be provided with a copy of the work contract in a language understood by the worker, fully describing terms and conditions of employment such as beginning and end dates of the contract and location (s) of the work; payment for transportation expenses incurred; housing and meals to be provided, days workers are not required to work, hours per day and days per week each worker is expected to work; crops to be worked and jobs to be performed; applicable rate of pay for each crop/job; provision of any tools, supplies and equipment provided to employees at no cost, provision of workers’ compensation insurance at no cost to the employee at no charge and any deductions not otherwise required by law. Additionally, H-2A employers must guarantee to offer each covered worker employment for a total number of hours equal to at least 75 percent of the workdays in the contract period. The employer must pay workers the amount they would have earned for the guaranteed 75 per cent period at the rate of pay stipulated in the worker’s contract. Employers must keep accurate records of hours of work offered each day and hours actually worked, and earning statements must indicate total earnings for the pay period and all deductions from wages. Housing that meets all applicable safety standards (CFR 1910.142) must be provided to H-2A workers at no cost, and employers are required to either provide each covered worker with three meals per day, at no more than a DOL-specified WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
cost or to furnish free and convenient cooking and kitchen facilities where workers can prepare their own meals. H-2A employers must also provide daily transportation between the workers’ living quarters and the employer’s worksite at no cost to covered workers, and provided transportation must meet all applicable safety standards, as well as proper insurance and operation by licensed drivers. H-2A employers are also obligated to take workers to the bank and grocery store once a week. The costs associated with transporting H-2A workers from their home country to the site where work is to be performed are to be reimbursed during the first work week. After completing 50 per cent of the work contract, H-2A employers are responsible for return travel, as well. Mexico has accounted for the vast majority of H-2A workers with other visa holders coming from the Americas in regions physically close to the United States. While the seasonal agricultural work performed by H-2A visa holders is critical to growers, there is an ongoing need to improve the process, making it less costly and more equitable for employers, more streamlined and reliable. Among the specific improvements cited and sought by growers are cost-sharing considerations split among employers and workers; longer H-2A visa periods, possibly up to three years and permitting portability and an overall enhancement in the level of transparency of the process. There is also a move for Congress to pass an immigration law that would provide a path to citizenship for members of the farm labor work force who lack an immigration status.
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Tampa Bay Area Let’s Go Fishing Report
Capt. Woody Gore
Snook: (Still Closed) There are
greenbacks at the Skyway if you want to travel that far to net bait. If you’re looking for bait, check the south skyway fishing pier. You usually don’t have to chum. Throw into the shadow line of the bridge, to get your bait. Then there’s a good chance you can find a snook willing to eat them. If you look hard enough, you might also find some bait hanging around a few Tampa Bay markers. Snook are starting to migrate up into the bay and the creeks and backcountry canals. They are showing up around docks in deeper water with muddy bottoms. Reports indicate good days are tossing diving or suspending lures around inshore canals, creeks, and rivers.
Triple Tail: Capt. Mike Gore Guid-
ed client Bruce Roberts to a nice tripletail bite recently. They caught several good-sized fish off crab traps in nearshore waters.
Redfish: (Still Closed) Good red-
fish days reported on the north and south end of the bay. Fish the grass flats and mangrove shorelines. Live or dead bait under a cork is a good bet for nice sized redfish. Artificial lures are still in play, provided you get going before the boat traffic starts chasing up and down the flats.
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Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)
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Spotted Sea Trout: (Still Closed) The trout bite has been on fire all winter and should continue through February. Some enormous fish are hanging around shallow water
potholes. And on negative winter tide, wading is the best bet with a floating bait bucket full of good size shrimp. An excellent incoming or outgoing tide is usually the trick as they seem to eat better on moving water. Don’t be surprised when trout fishing with jigs if you catch several pompanos, flounder, or redfish in the same potholes.
Cobia & Sharks – Reports last week of a few cobia cruising the warm water discharges near power plants and a couple on the flats around the manatees. One was swimming under the big mammal, and you could hardly see it. It seems there are always plenty of sharks, jacks, and ladyfish hanging around for some great rod bending wintertime action. Remember, power plants offer some first-class wintertime action. Sheepshead, Snapper, Flounder:
Capt. Mark Gore found a mess of flounder with client James Brown while fishing docks recently, on the south end of Tampa Bay. You never what’s under a boat dock when you toss in a piece of shrimp. If you’re after these tasty striped fish, the first places to look are bridges, pilings, docks, oyster bars, and artificial reef rock piles located throughout Tampa Bay. Rig up with a #1 hook, small weight, and a piece of shrimp, oyster, mussel, or some little crabs and you’re in the game. There is some nice sheepshead coming from around the most Tampa Bay bridges. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing”
813-477-3814
Captain Woody Gore’s Guide Service: The area’s top-notch outdoor fishing guide service. He’s guided and fished the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Bradenton, and Sarasota areas for over fifty years and offers first-class customer service, outstanding fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories. Single Boat, Multi-Boat and Group Charters: With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Captain Woody can arrange and coordinate any size group, outing, or tournament.
Website www.captainwoodygore.com Email fishing@captainwoodygore.com
Wishing you a Berry Happy New Year
From our Family to Yours
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January 2020
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In 1881, the United States had three different presidents: Rutherford B. Hayes, James Garfield and Chester A. Arthur. Lou Gehrig’s salary in 1927, as a member of the New York Yankees, was $8,000. Pablo Picasso painted “Picador” at eight years old. The first minimum wage instituted in the U.S. in 1938 was 25 cents an hour. Harrison Ford has a species of spider, Calponia harissonfordi, named after him. Fairy tale writer Hans Christian Anderson was dyslexic. Others afflicted by dyslexia include Thomas Edison, Woodrow Wilson, Tom Cruise and Henry Winkler. Zenith created the first TV remote control in 1950. It was called “Lazy Bones.”
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Grandma Said As I child I often wondered why Grandma smiled all the time. Now in my later years of life I know why she smiled, because I have the same problem. She couldn’t hear a word people were saying. Grandma and Grandpa went to church. Halfway through the service, Grandpa leaned over to Grandma and said, “I just let out a silent fart. What do you think I should do?” Grandma leans over and replies, “Put a new battery in your hearing aid.” My Grandmother had a lot of wise sayings. One day I was in the kitchen with her, she said, “I’ll just give this a lick and a promise,” as she quickly mopped up a spill on the floor without moving the kitchen table and chairs. “What is that supposed to mean?” I asked, as in my young mind I envisioned someone licking the floor with her tongue. “It means that I’m in a hurry and I’m busy canning tomatoes so I am going to just give it a lick with the mop and promise to come back and do the job right later.” “A lick and a promise” was just one of the many old phrases that I remember my mother, grandmother and others using that they most likely heard from generations before them. Many old phrases have become obsolete or even totally forgotten. Below is a list that I have put together over the years: 1 – I have a bone to pick with you! 2 – Bee in your bonnet. (To have an idea that won’t let go) 3 – Cattywampus (Something that sits crooked such as a of piece furniture sitting at an angle. 4 - Been through the mill (had a rough time of it) 5 – Dicker (To barter or trade) 6 – Hold your horses (Be patient) 7 – Madder than an old wet hen (Really angry) 8 - No spring chicken (Not young anymore) 9 – Persnickety (Overly particular or snobbish) 10 – Straight from the horse’s mouth (privileged information from the one concerned) As Grandma said, “Hold your horses I reckon I’ll get this whole kit and caboodle done. Please don’t be too persnickety and get a bee in your bonnet because I am tuckered out. You know I ain’t no spring chicken!” And as for me as I write this column, I promise to give it more than just a lick and a promise. One late afternoon a police car pulled up in front of Grandma’s house, and Grandpa got out. The polite policeman explained that this elderly gentleman said that he was lost in the neighborhood park and could not find his way home. “Pop,” Grandma said, “You’ve been to that park for over thirty years! How could you get lost?” Leaning close to his wife’s ear so that the policeman could not hear, Grandpa whispered, “I wasn’t lost, I was just to tired to walk home.”
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Grandma had a missed to a few Sunday sermons so the preacher stopped by her house to visit. As he sat on the couch he noticed a
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large bowl of peanuts on the coffee table. “Mind if I have few”” he asked. “No, not at all.” Grandma said. They talked for a while and as the preacher stood to leave, he realized that instead of eating just a few peanuts, he almost emptied the bowl. “I’m terribly sorry for eating all of your peanuts. I really just meant to eat a few.” The preacher said. “Oh that’s alright,” Grandma said. “Ever since I lost my teeth, all I can do is suck the chocolate off them.” A concerned grandpa went to a doctor to talk about his wife. He said to the doctor, “I think my wife is almost deaf because she never hears me the first time and always asks me to repeat things.” “Well,” the doctor replied, “go home and tonight stand about 15 feet from her and say something. If she doesn’t reply, move about five feet closer and say it again. Keep doing this so that we’ll get an idea of her hearing loss.” Sure enough, the husband went home and did exactly as instructed. He started off about 15 feet from his wife in the kitchen as she was chopping some vegetables and said, “Honey, what’s for dinner?” He heard no response. He moved about five feet closer and asked again. No reply. He moved five feet closer, and still no reply. He got fed up and moved right behind her, and spoke into her ear, and asked again, “Honey, what’s for dinner?” She replied, “For the fourth time, vegetable stew!” I’ll leave you with Grandma’s nine important facts as you get older. 1 – Death is the number one killer in the world. 2 – Life is sexually transmitted. 3 – Good health is merely the slowest possible rate at which one can die. 4 – Men have two motivations; hunger and hanky-panky, and they can’t tell them apart. If you see a gleam in his eyes, make him a sandwich. 5 – Give a person a fish and you feed them for a day. Teach a person to use the Internet and they won’t bother you for weeks, months, maybe years. 6 – Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in the hospital, dying of nothing. 7 – All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to criticism. 8 – In the 60s people took acid to make the world weird. Now the world is weird, and people take Prozac to make it normal. 9 – Life is like a jar of jalapeno peppers. What you do today may be a burning issue tomorrow. And Grandma’s favorite saying: “As you go through life one learns that if you don’t paddle Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair your own canoe, you Chatter was originally printed in don’t go anywhere. the January 2017 issue WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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LEW JAMES PROSSER
AND PLANT CITY AGRIBUSINESS By Plant City Photo Archives, Inc. While still a young man, Lew J. Prosser became a partner with R. W. Burch, a pioneer Plant City citrus and produce shipper, in 1924 and sole owner in 1928. He expanded the citrus operations to five citrus-packing plants in 1930 and became the third largest independent shipper of citrus fruit in Florida. In the same year, he became Florida’s largest watermelon dealer and expanded into Georgia and South Carolina. Prosser went on to become Plant City’s largest citrus fruit grower and one of the area’s leading dealers in strawberries and produce. As a citri-culturist, Prosser traveled extensively throughout many of the citrus-producing areas of the world, studying methods, history, and practices. He was an inventor and an aggressive innovator. Pictured here is a citrus harvesting system he developed in 1951.
area the extensive growing of bell peppers to follow the strawberry crop, established the first packing house devoted to the creation of a uniform grade and pack for bell peppers, introduced the tri-sodium phosphate bath, developed a new system for the dyeing of oranges, and, among other activities, established the Plant City Production Credit Company, operating under the U.S. Farm Credit Administration. In 1944, Prosser organized Plant City’s first citrus canning plant, which included a cattle feed division and a citrus molasses plant division. Prosser later wrote the Early History of the Produce Industry in Plant City, in which he attributes the development of Plant City’s produce industry to the access to railroad transportation. In 1920 Plant City was recognized as the largest inland shipping point in Florida.
Included in his list of accomplishments are these: he formed the Florida Mixed Car Company, introduced to the Plant City
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Sources: Plant City Photo Archives, Inc.; Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr. Plant City; Its Origin and History, (1984); Lew J. Prosser, Early History of the Produce Industry in Plant City.
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Sign up
for a FREE On-Farm Readiness Review The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule (PSR) inspections have begun. Sign up now to request a free On-Farm Readiness Review (OFRR), offered in partnership by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and University of Florida IFAS. The OFRR is an educational opportunity to help individual farms align practices with the PSR regulatory requirements in preparation for inspections.
For more information on FSMA and to sign up for an OFRR, visit FDACS.gov/FSMA or call (863) 578-1900. To take full advantage of the OFRR and for PSR compliance, one farm representative should first attend a Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training. Upcoming trainings can be found at: crec.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/events
Funding for this statement was made possible, in part, by the Food and Drug Administration through grant PAR-16-137. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services.
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Friends Become family at Plant City’s Newest Diner By Justin Kline
The Wooden Spoon Diner, which opened in Plant City in July, is much more than just another local breakfast spot.
Had you asked Manny Roussos in 2018 about opening a second Wooden Spoon Diner, let alone one outside of Brandon, the answer would have been “no.” But after visiting Plant City at a friend’s recommendation, the third-generation restaurant owner saw an opportunity he couldn’t let slip away. “My intentions were never to open up another restaurant,” Roussos said. “One was plenty. Then, passing by Plant City a couple times… I saw how the downtown area is, how nice it is, how the people are welcoming. It’s not like big cities. Here, you get to know people. That welcoming feel made me just look around. This was the first place I saw. I put one and one together and made it happen.” The second Wooden Spoon Diner opened at 712 S. Collins St. in summer 2019 and as Roussos and his staff work hard on improving the restaurant itself, it’s gaining a reputation around town for its family atmosphere and good eats. “The response has been great,” Roussos said. “There’s still a lot more to work on on my end to earn that status as that local place, that establishment, that’s the place to be. I still have a lot to work on. Everything is gonna come slowly.”
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Those two things, Roussos said, are what separates both Wooden Spoon Diners from other places.
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Family comes first at the Wooden Spoon because it’s always come first for Roussos. “It’s a family-oriented place,” Roussos said. “I’m a big family guy. I come from a great family with great parents. That’s why we say this is where friends become family. We want to welcome every guest in and make them feel like this is the local spot to be at.” His grandfather owned and operated Mike’s Drive-In in Bartow. His parents ran Gloria’s Restaurant in Bowling Green. His brother, like him, is also heavily involved in the family business and currently runs the Brandon diner at 865 Lithia Pinecrest Road. His wife and mother came up with the Wooden Spoon name, which stuck when he opened the first restaurant in 2017. “They were trying to find stuff that I use in the kitchen,” Roussos said. “Parsley Diner was a name. Lemon Diner, I use a lot of lemon in my recipes. My wife said at some point, ‘You can make this guy cook anything, but he won’t touch a sauce if he doesn’t have a wooden spoon. I don’t know why. If his wooden spoon isn’t cleaned and ready to go, he’s not gonna cook.’ That’s the only thing I have to do to make a meat sauce. My mom said, ‘Well, I’ve beat him up with a wooden spoon plenty of times.’” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
That’s why there are two spoons in the logo: the one Roussos got beaten up with, and the one Roussos cooks with. Roussos also takes great pride in every plate that leaves the kitchen. The Wooden Spoon’s menu has plenty of homestyle favorites. If you want breakfast, all of the essentials are there. Roussos himself strongly recommends trying the corned beef hash, which is made fresh in the restaurant every day. Although Plant Citians have been buying a ton of blueberry pancakes, the Wooden Spoon’s cinnamon roll pancakes (the top-selling menu item in Brandon) are well worth your time. They taste exactly like softer, fluffier cinnamon rolls and are sweet enough on their own that no syrup is necessary — the swirl of icing on top does just fine with this pancake. Specials vary by the day and Roussos is always looking for new things to add to the menu. The Wooden Spoon’s current specials rotation includes taco salad on Tuesdays, jumbo wings on Wednesdays, stuffed peppers on Thursdays and all-you-can-eat fish fry on Fridays. That fish fry, for which Roussos uses pangasius, has a light, crisp batter and is served on a bed of standard cut fries. It comes with a bowl of coleslaw and, recently, a hearty bowl of Maryland-style crab and vegetable soup seasoned with plenty of Old Bay. Saturdays and Sundays do not have one constant special item as the others do, but there’s always something you can get a deal on during the weekend. Other than breakfast, seafood is Roussos’s favorite food to cook and to eat. Though he has high standards for everything on the menu, nothing compares to the pride he puts into the Maryland-style crab cakes. The Wooden Spoon’s meaty crab
“If you find bread in my crab cakes,” Roussos joked, “I’ll be feeding the whole rest of Plant City for free for the rest of my life.” The hottest-selling items at the Plant City restaurant include the pork tenderloin, blueberry pancakes, Philly cheesesteak sandwich, crab cake eggs benedict, Greek spinach omelet, country fried steak and country fried chicken. Roussos would like to add pot roast, turkey and more to the menu over time and also hopes to eventually roll out a unique strawberry item. “It is a strawberry town,” Roussos said. “You probably already know where you want to go already to have your best strawberry shake, your shortcake… I didn’t want to interfere with that coming in. I wanted to get my own identity, something for people to know me for, then I slowly bring in the signature strawberry stuff.” The Wooden Spoon opens at 7 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday and closes at 2:30 p.m. every day but Friday, when it stays open until 8:30 p.m. for dinner. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Call (813) 652-8192 or visit www.facebook.com/woodenspoonpc for more information.
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cakes, served with a spicy sauce, are packed with flavor yet far lighter than most. That’s because Roussos refuses to use bread in his recipe, to put it lightly.
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PARKESDALE’S Sweet LineUp.
1
Strawberry Shortcake
2
3
SStrawberry b Shortcake & Ice Cream
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(Strawberries &VanillaIceCream)
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Milkshakes VotedBest DrinkableDessert byFoodNetwork
PARKESDALE 3702 W. Baker Street • Plant City, FL.
Hwy 92 west of Plant City limits off I-4 between exits 17 & 19 OPEN 9-6PM OPEN 7 DAYS
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75866-1
With every generation, we get better at protecting our environment.
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Ashlee, seen here with her father, Bud, is a secondgeneration employee. As a reclamation ecologist, she works to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, agriculture, restored streams, and more—so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.
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FLORIDA
agriculture. STATE FAIR
ROOTED IN
Witness the tradition of agriculture at the Florida State Fair with over 100 open and youth livestock competitions and shows, educational exhibits and hands-on animal experiences. Always in Tampa. Always in February.
www.FloridaStateFair.com/fair2020 PHOTO BY TIM FRITZ
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FLorida
SAGE By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science Fresh sage is prized for its culinary and medicinal properties. Native to the Mediterranean countries, sage grows easily in Florida. This perennial herb is sometimes grown for its beautiful small, silvery leaves and spikes of purple flowers on mature plants. The leaves are green-gray and silvery, up to 5” long, growing from a woody stem. It’s scientific name, Salvia officinalis, comes from the Latin word salvere, meaning, “to be saved.” This herb is also referenced as the herb of health, wisdom, and immortality. Fresh sage is available in Florida throughout the winter months, but dried sage can be found in grocery stores year-round.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE Sage is a relative to rosemary in the mint family and contains a variety of antioxidants, flavonoids, and volatile oils, with many health benefits. It is a great source of vitamins A and K. A two-teaspoon serving of dried sage (1.4 grams) contains 4.4 calories, 0.2 g fat, 0.85 g carbohydrate, 0.6 g fiber, and 0.15 g protein. Sage is high in beneficial flavonoids and volatile oils which function like antioxidants in preventing diseases. It also contains notable amounts of vitamins A, E, and K, as well as calcium, iron, manganese, and magnesium.
Calcium Fresh Florida sage is an excellent non-dairy source of calcium. Calcium is important in maintaining strength and density of your bones. Additionally, this mineral has been shown to prevent bone loss that can occur as a result of menopause and reduce symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome. Adequate calcium intake is needed to prevent calcium stores being leached out of bones. Calcium also plays an important role in muscle contraction, nerve conduction, and cell membrane function.
Vitamin A Sage is also a very good source of vitamin A. Vitamin A acts as an antioxidant and is essential for optimum health. This vitamin plays an important role in maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin. Sage, and other foods rich in vitamin A, may also be beneficial for lung health. Researchers at
How to Select and Store Fresh Florida sage is delicious and flavorful and available most of the year. Choose fresh sage that has leaves that are vibrant gray in color and free of yellowing or dark spots. Fresh sage can be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature for up to several days. Wrap leaves in a damp paper towel. Dried sage can be stored for up to six months in a glass container in a cool, dark place. Sage can also be frozen for later use. Chop leaves and place in an ice cube tray, cover with water and freeze for later use. Sage can also be dried for later use. Tie in bundles and allow to dry. Once brittle, remove the leaves and store in a glass container.
How to Enjoy Fresh sage imparts a lot of flavor and is often paired with chicken, turkey, or poultry dishes. It can be used as part of a dry rub or marinade. The leaves can flavor butter or vinegar. The leaves and flowers are also fully edible. Other serving ideas include: • Use sage as a seasoning for tomato sauce or soup • Top chicken or fish dishes with fresh sage • Mix chopped sage into your favorite bread recipe • Use sage flowers in salads • Mix into bean dishes or hummus • Add fresh sage to omelets and frittatas. • Use to top your next slice of pizza or sandwich. • Combine sage leaves with other vegetables in a salad Enjoy fresh Florida sage today. With its fresh, vibrant flavor, sage can be a healthy addition to almost any dish.
SELECTED REFERENCES http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://www.whfoods.com INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Kansas State University discovered that carcinogens in cigarette smoke may deplete the body’s stores of vitamin A and increase the likelihood of developing emphysema and lung cancer. They also discovered that a diet rich in vitamin A can reduce the risk of emphysema in smokers.
By Jack Payne | UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones We’re bringing some of the best minds in the world – not to mention one of the leading ag visionaries in Hillsborough County -- to Gainesville to look into the future. Our goal is determine how to keep you, your children, and your grandchildren in the food business. The Future of Food Forum on Jan. 15 aims to give us direction on what researchers and farmers should be doing now to bring innovation to Florida fields. International experts will share the podium with Florida producers. For example, Hillsborough County strawberry grower and entrepreneur Gary Wishnatski will serve on a panel with captains of agribusiness from companies such as Syngenta. We’ll have a Gates Foundation executive and the Nigeriabased leader of a global tropical agriculture institute sharing the stage with the Farm Bureau’s Women’s Leadership Committee chair, Sarah Carte. You can watch it from the Hillsborough-Polk area by clicking on the “Watch Live” button at https://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/ foodforum/ . The next day, Jan. 16, the techies are up. We’ll host “Pathways Towards the Next Generation of Agriculture and Natural Resources in Florida.” We’ll explore how we can harness huge amounts of data to improve your crops, as well as what policies we’ll need to make that happen. We’ll assemble the state’s leading water policy experts to hear what needs to happen to keep the taps running on farms even as cities get bigger and thirstier. You can watch it at: https://mediasite.video.ufl.edu/ Mediasite/Play/f32c6708b4eb407082b602de78f757751d I know you’ve got plenty to deal with in the here and now. But if you don’t start considering drones, artificial intelligence, robots, and the like, you’ll be competing some day against growers who already are thinking about these things. One could dismiss this as all talk if we at UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences didn’t have the capacity to act on some of the vision that emerges. When we convene experts, we get A-listers. With UF/IFAS, Florida farmers have one of the best R&D shops anywhere on the planet. You’re going to need it. Your grandparents or greatgrandparents fed about 18 people when they ran the farm. Today, you feed 164. You can expect to be feeding even more as we add 2.5 billion more mouths to the planet by midcentury.
FUTURE OF FOOD forum
JANUARY 15, 2020
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA | GAINESVILLE, FL
ATTENTION academics, industry, innovators, policy makers and students, the Institute for Sustainable Food Systems at the University of Florida is hosting this Forum to: • Explore the frontier of global food innovation • Highlight the potential for food innovations to improve human well-being • Provide guidance to the scientific community on the most important areas to make better functioning food systems and to improve global nutrition security. for more information
isfs.institute.ifas.ufl.edu
I don’t know how much harder you can work to keep up. You’re going to have to work smarter. We can help. Come to these campus events or watch on the web to get a glimpse of what lies ahead.
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If you can’t make it, reconnect with the closest UF/IFAS research and education center or Extension office. But start planning for that future now.
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Jack Payne is the University of Florida’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources and leader of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Helping to Soar
By Libby Hopkins
The Dalai Lama once said, “Our prime purpose in life is to help others. If you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.” Nancy Murrah would agree with the Dalai Lama, as she believes in helping injured migratory birds. Murrah is the President of the Raptor Center of Tampa. “I founded the center,” Murrah said. “I am federally permitted to rehabilitate migratory birds, state permitted to rehabilitate native wildlife, USFWS permitted for birds for education, FWC permitted wildlife transporter, FWC facilitator for Project Wild, Flying Wild and Aquatic Wild, as well as serve on the board of Tampa Audubon Society.”
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The goal of the Raptor Center of Tampa is to build a raptor rehabilitation facility to serve injured and sick birds of prey found in our area. They triage all birds that may be brought to the center and get them to the people who can best treat them. There is no rescue organization in the Tampa Bay area with the facility to help birds of prey get well and be reconditioned to get back into the wild properly without having to transport them very long distances for larger caging and flight barns. “Every year the demand for our services increases,” Murrah said. “We currently have to transfer 41 percent of our patients to other facilities. We transfer 100 percent of our large birds of prey to other organizations to complete the rehabilitation process because we lack flight cages. Having the Raptor Center of Tampa Bay centrally located in Hillsborough County will reduce the number of birds, and the stress transportation causes them, that have to be transported to other facilities. We currently average 70 miles per bird rescued, treated and/ or transferred to other facilities. Most large birds travel over 200 miles round trip for reconditioning. Our volunteers drive tens of thousands of miles each year picking up and transporting wildlife.”
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When Murrah is not out rescuing or caring for birds, she spends her time educating children on conservation education, watching, studying and counting wild birds as part of several citizen science projects. “I work hard to build The Raptor Center of Tampa Bay and to rehabilitate injured and sick birds of prey,” Murrah said. “I’m clearly all about helping.” One of the programs Murrah is currently working on for the center is The Barn Owl Project. “Barn owls are a species of owl found across most continents, excluding Antarctica,” Murrah sad. “Within Hillsborough County they live in the Southern end around Apollo Beach and further South, and in St. Petersburg. They are field and pasture hunters that prefer open areas for hunting and nest in cavities. The cavities they nest in can range from barns and other buildings, holes in trees, and nest boxes. Through The Barn Owl Project, we invest in the conservation of these beautiful birds by working on removing rodenticides and setting up nest boxes for these owls. Our goal is to help populate and protect these owls through the education of rodent poison to prevent further use and installation of nest boxes.” Since 2016 Murrah and her team at The Raptor Center of Tampa have released more than 2000 birds back to the wild. Murrah hopes to increase these numbers in the coming year. “Birds from Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk and Manatee county need to be treated from rescue to release at one place,” Murrah said. “We will also be able to help other rehabilitators in the area to have access to our local flight cages, thereby increasing the chances more birds of prey will not only survive but thrive upon release from our facility.” The Raptor Center of Tampa Bay will be hosting its second WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
annual Wonders of Wildlife Festival on March 21 from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin. The ticket cost for the festival will be $12.00 for adults. Children 18 and under get in free when accompanied by an adult. “Our first festival was a huge success and 2020 is shaping up to be even better,” Murrah said. “The Festival is a family-oriented event created to educate our local communities in a fun and entertaining way about the importance of wildlife. The festival provides an opportunity to see our native wildlife up close as well as learn about current threats to their existence. Proceeds from the festival will aid us in our work while bringing us closer to fulfilling our mission to build a center that will rehabilitate the increasing numbers of wildlife being impacted by development in the Tampa Bay area.” If you would like to learn more about The Raptor Center of Tampa, you can visit their website at www.raptorcenteroftampa.org. To report a sick or injured bird, please call The Raptor Center of Tampa’s hotline at 813-205-1851.
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CROP INSURANCE: IT PAYS TO MANAGE YOUR RISK When you purchase risk management coverage with Farm Credit of Central Florida, we return a portion of our commission as patronage dividends to eligible stockholders. Patronage dividends could help lower the cost of insurance premiums, saving you money as you manage your risk. Farm Credit of Central Florida is glad to discuss how we can save you money on your crop insurance with patronage dividends. Feel free to contact our crop insurance specialist, Regina Thomas, at 407.721.4687 or rthomas@farmcreditcfl.com. Patronage dividend distribution is subject to eligibility. Certain limitations, conditions, and exclusions apply for crop insurance. Please refer to the policy for more details.
Important Sales Closing Dates Whole Farm Revenue Protection (WFRP) . . . . . . .Feb. 28 Citrus Fruit & Citrus Trees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .April 15 Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 1 Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov. 15
86 6 . 245 . 3637 farmcreditcfl.com
Apiary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov. 15
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Blueberries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nov. 20
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FLORIDA State Fair 2020 LIVESTOCK SCHEDULE OF EVENTS WEDNESDAY, FEB. 5 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Open & Youth Beef Cattle Arrive Open – Angus, Grey & Red Brahman, Brangus, Hereford & Zebu Youth – Angus, Grey & Red Brahman & Brangus & Zebu 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Youth Rabbits Arrive 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Pre-Junior Rabbits Arrive 3 p.m. - 9 p.m. Purebred Poultry Arrive 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. Open & Youth Dairy Goat Early Arrival 7 p.m. Beef Exhibitor Meeting & Dinner THURSDAY, FEB. 6 8 a.m. - 12 noon Open & Youth Dairy Goats Arrive (Zone 4 & Out of State till 2 p.m.) 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Youth Swine Arrive 10 a.m. Purebred Poultry Judging 10 a.m. Youth Rabbit & Pre-Junior Rabbit Judging 10 a.m. Open Grey & Red Brahman Show 10 a.m. Open Brangus Show Following Brahman Open Hereford Show Following Brangus Open Angus Show Following Hereford Open Zebu Show 4 p.m. Youth Dairy Goat Fitting & Grooming Contest 5 p.m. Open Dairy Goat Show – Junior Show (Non Pay) 6:30 p.m. Youth Swine Dinner FRIDAY, FEB. 7 9 a.m. Youth Beef Showmanship (Angus, Grey & Red Brahman, Brangus & Zebu) After Beef Showmanship Youth Beef Show (Angus, Grey & Red Brahman, Brangus & Zebu) 10 a.m. Purebred Poultry Judging (as needed) 10 a.m. Youth Rabbit & Pre-Junior Rabbit Judging 11 a.m. Youth Dairy Goat Showmanship & Show 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Purebred Poultry Judges Q & A 6 p.m. Southeastern Miniature Zebu Classic
PHOTO BY TIM FRITZ
SUNDAY, FEB. 9 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Open & Youth Beef Cattle Arrive Open – Limousin, Dexter, Simmental, Santa Gertrudis & Charolais Youth – Limousin, Simmental, Santa Gertrudis, Charolais & All Other Youth Beef Cattle 8 a.m. Youth Dog Arrive 8 a.m. Youth Dairy Goat Judging Contest (7:30 a.m. – Registration) After Judging Contest Open Dairy Goat Show – Senior Show (Pay) 9 a.m. Youth Dog Show (Showmanship, Rally, Agility, Obedience) 11:30 a.m. Youth Goat Judging Contest Awards 12 noon Youth Swine Show 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. Purebred Poultry Released 5 p.m. Goats Released 5 p.m. Youth Swine Released (or at conclusion of Show) 7 p.m. Beef Exhibitor Meeting & Dinner
MONDAY, FEB. 10
SATURDAY, FEB. 8
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9 a.m. Open Dairy Goat Show – Senior Show Non Pay) & Junior Show (Pay) 9 a.m. 4-H/FFA Livestock Judging Contest (8 a.m. - Registration) 9 am - 12 noon Youth Rabbit Showmanship – Senior Division 9 am - 12 noon Youth Rabbit Showmanship –Intermediate Division 9 am – 12 noon Pre-Junior Rabbit Showmanship 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Youth Rabbit Showmanship – Senior Division 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Youth Rabbit Showmanship –Intermediate Division 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Youth Rabbit Showmanship – Junior Division 1:30 p.m. 4-H/FFA Horse Judging Contest (12:30 pm – Registration) 4 p.m. 4-H Livestock Judging Contest Awards 4 p.m. Youth Swine Showmanship 5:30 p.m. 4-H Horse Judging Contest Awards 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Beef Cattle Released
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9 a.m. Youth Beef Showmanship (Limousin, Simmental, Santa Gertrudis, Charolais & All Other Youth Beef Cattle) 1 p.m. Open Dexter Show Following Dexter Open Charolais Show Following Charolais Open Santa Gertrudis Show Following Santa Gertrudis Open Simmental Show Following Simmental Open Limousin Show 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. Open & Youth Boer Goats Arrive 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Youth Steer Arrive 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Youth Rabbit & Pre-Junior Rabbit Released
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THURSDAY, FEB. 6
SATURDAY, FEB. 15
8 a.m. – 12 noon Youth & Open Boer Goats Arrive 10 a.m. Youth Beef Show (Limousin, Simmental, Santa Gertrudis, Charolais All Other Youth Beef Cattle) 1 p.m. – 9 p.m. Youth Poultry Arrive 1 p.m. – 9 p.m. Pre-Junior (Pee Wee) Poultry Arrive 3 p.m. Youth Steer Showmanship 6 p.m. Boer Goat Judging Contest 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Beef Cattle Released
7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Youth and Open Dairy Arrive Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein & Jersey 9 a.m. Youth Boer Goat Show After Youth Boer Goat Market Goat Show & Youth Boer Goat Showmanship 12 noon – 8 p.m. Open Rabbit Arrive 2 p.m. Open Boer Goat ABGA Show (Non Pay) 7 p.m. Youth Steer Show
7 a.m. Open Cavy Arrive 8 a.m. Open Cavy Judging 8 a.m. Open Llama Showmanship / Halter Classes 30 minutes after Open Llama Halter Classes is completed Open & Youth Llama Performance Classes / Obstacle & PR 9 a.m. Pygmy Goat Show (Pay) 9 a.m. 4-H/FFA Poultry Judging Contest (8:00 a.m. – Registration) 9:30 a.m. 4-H/FFA Dairy Judging Contest (8:00 a.m. – FFA Check-in, 8:30 a.m. – FFA Written Test) (9:00 a.m. – 4-H Registration) 10 a.m. Youth Market Lamb Show Following Market Lamb Wether Dam Show 1 p.m. Open Rabbit Judging 1 p.m. Youth Sheep Showmanship 3 p.m. Ranch Rodeo (New Location – Stampede Covered Arena) 4 p.m. Open Dairy Release 5:30 p.m. Youth Dairy Social Following Social 4-H Dairy Judging Contest Awards 6 p.m. Ranch Rodeo (New Location – Stampede Covered Arena)
THURSDAY, FEB. 13
SUNDAY, FEB. 16
10 a.m. Youth Poultry (Purebred) Judging 10 a.m. Pre-Junior (Pee Wee) Poultry Judging 10 a.m. Open Boer Goat ABGA Show 12 noon Youth Steer Awards Luncheon 2:30 p.m. Youth Steer Released 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. Youth Llama Arrive 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Pygmy Goats Arrive 6 p.m. Boer Goats Released
9 a.m. Open & Youth Llama Performance/Pack 9 a.m. Pygmy Goat Show (Non Pay) 9:30 am Youth Dairy Showmanship 30 min. after Youth Dairy Showmanship is completed Youth Dairy Show - Heifer Classes 11 a.m. Youth Registered Sheep Show 4 p.m. Youth Sheep Released or end of show 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Open Rabbit Released 5 p.m. Open & Youth Llama Released 5 p.m. Pygmy Goat Released
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 5
FRIDAY, FEB. 14
7:15 a.m. Old Timers Breakfast 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Youth Registered Sheep, Market MONDAY, FEB. 17 Lamb & Wether Dam Arrive 9:30 a.m. Youth Dairy Show - Cow Classes 8:30 a.m. Open Dairy Show 2:30 p.m. Champion of Champions Contest (Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein & Jersey) 3 p.m. Youth Poultry Show & 4-H Poultry Judging Contest Awards 8:30 a.m. Open Rabbit Judging 4 p.m. Youth Poultry Released 9 a.m. Youth Poultry (Purebred) Judging 4 p.m. Pre-Junior (Pee Wee) Poultry Released 9 a.m. Pre-Junior (Pee Wee) Poultry Judging 4 p.m. Youth Dairy Released 9 a.m. Pygmy Goat Club Sponsored Sanction Show 5:30 p.m. Champion of Champions Dinn with Costume & Obstacle Contest 12 noon – 6 p.m. Youth Poultry Showmanship 12 noon – 6 p.m. Pre-Junior (Pee Wee) Poultry Showmanship 12:30 p.m. Youth Llama Show Meet the Judge Following Meet the Judge Youth Llama Showmanship Youth Llama Halter Classes 30 minutes after Youth Llama Halter Classes is completed Youth Llama Public Relations Classes 2 p.m. Youth Poultry (Commercial) Judging After Open Dairy Show Open Dairy Supreme Champion 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. Open Llama Arrive 6 p.m. Youth Sheep Fitting & Grooming Contest 7 p.m. Ranch Rodeo (New Location – Stampede Covered Arena)
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FLORIDA FARM BUREAU AWARDS MINI-GRANTS TO MULRENNAN MIDDLE AND PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL By Jim Frankowiak
Two Hillsborough County public schools – Mulrennan Middle School and Plant City High School – recently received Florida Farm Bureau (FFB) Mini-Grants as part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to provide an array of resources to help educators and consumers learn more about agriculture. The FFB Mini-Grant program is overseen by the Women’s Leadership Committee which provides multiple $250 grants to certified Florida educators who are engaged in classroom instruction at the pre-K to 12th grade levels. That initiative in FFB’s District V is chaired by Valerie Ansell and supported by her team of Women’s Leadership volunteers.
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The Mini-Grant to Mulrennan Middle School was in response to an application submitted by Ag Teacher Andrea “Andi” Lesko and will be used “to help us introduce rabbits into the classroom,” said Lesko. “Mulrennan is located in a pretty suburban area and many of our students in our agriculture classes have never had a firsthand experience with livestock, so they are initially intimidated by the thought of it. Introducing rabbits into
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our classrooms will help students learn the basics of proper animal handling and build their confidence with interacting with and take care of animals,” said Lesko. “We hope that introducing students to animals in the classroom and teaching them how to properly care for the animals will help them become more interested in participating in a livestock project and intrigue them to become more involved with FFA and agriculture.” Plant City High School Agriculture Teacher Cassie Miles applied for and was awarded a Mini-Grant to help with her veterinary assisting course through which enrolled students learn technical in-demand work skills that focus on the animal industry. “As part of their curriculum, students are to practice and master many skills and objectives in order to earn an Industry Certification as a Veterinary Assistant that is recognized by the Florida Veterinary Medical Association,” said Miles. The project title for this grant is Animal Husbandry in the Classroom and has as its primary objectives to: • Discuss and practice the human-animal bond and its effects on human health • Identify careers in the animal industry WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
• Recognize normal and abnormal animal behaviors • Restrain and control companion animals • Identify common breeds of companion animals • Investigate the common husbandry practices and daily care of several species of animals In addition, Miles anticipates involved students “will be able to demonstrate knowledge of preventive medicine and disease control of animals; describe the importance of preventive medicine for animal health; differentiate between healthy and sick animals; describe common infectious and non-infectious diseases of animals to include bacterial, viral, fungal, prior and zoonotic; describe vaccinations available for disease prevention and vaccination procedures; describe isolation or quarantine procedures for new or sick animals; describe methods of preventive medicine and quarantine for disease control; discuss the terms immunology ad active and passive immunity as it applies to disease and vaccination; describe concepts for periodic health check-up and list and discuss common zoonotic diseases.” FFB is the “Voice of Agriculture in Florida.” With more than 147,000 members, FFB is Florida’s largest agricultural organization, representing farm owners who produce all 300 of the state’s agricultural commodities. For more information about Florida Farm Bureau, visit: www. floridafarmbureau.org. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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A TRADITION TO REMEMBER Each year the Varnum family rises before dawn on a crisp December morning to begin an old-fashioned tradition that draws quite a crowd. By Breanne Williams | Photos by Stephanie Humphrey
They say everyone has their own unique holiday traditions, but one family in Lithia has set the bar as they go “back to the basics” each year.
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Every second Saturday in December cars begin slowly trickling down the lane to Mrs. Pat Varnum’s backyard. A fire roars to life around 6 a.m. under a massive, old kettle out near the cane shed. It’s an event none wish to miss and many will schedule their entire holiday season around the sweet social at the Varnum’s.
decades, if not more than 100 years. They had no idea what to do next, but with the help of Robert Earl Reynolds, a family friend who had been cooking his own syrup for years, they started to master the art of splitting, juicing and boiling the cane. “He helped us get it started and then a lot of these old-timers would come and give us advice and help us along,” Scott Varnum said. “We just learned from people and everyone has their own special way of cooking it.”
Scott Varnum, Mrs. Pat’s son, said the tradition all began because of an obscure urge he had decades ago to find a way to bring a semblance of some of his favorite childhood memories to life. He recalls growing up around the ovens and backyards of “some old-timers” and fondly cherishes the lessons he learned simply sitting and watching as they slowly brought a meal to life. He said he always wanted to have a laid-back, casual tradition of his own so he decided to look into the process of making cane syrup.
At first Mrs. Pat said there was around 60 people that came to the barn to watch the process begin. She remembers spending hours baking biscuits for everyone who turned up and when the first batch of the sweet syrup was done they poured it over the flaky bread in a moment of triumph. The tradition continues, though now there’s approximately 150 people that attend every year so Mrs. Pat has found a faster, and far more efficient way to mass produce a horde of biscuits for the group.
He found some cane, planted a decent chunk of it in his mother’s backyard and began to watch it grow. It was his father, Hank, who eventually got the ball rolling. They found a kettle that had been used to cook syrup at Cracker Country adjacent to the State Fairgrounds and purchased it, along with the ancient grinder that came with it. It’s at least 70 years old and not overly large.
As the sun starts peaking over the horizon the first of the attendees settle in, grabbing chairs and blankets and sipping on some hot coffee as they gaze at the growing flames. The talk starts small. “How’s the family?” “What’ve you been up?” “Work treating you right?” But as more and more families arrive it inevitably turns into a day of meaningful moments and generational bonding.
So the family found another mill that Scott Varnum says must’ve bounced around the community for at least several
There’s not a lot of jobs so sitting back and soaking in the moment is the only to-do list for the majority of those who attend.
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Two batches of cane are cut and brought up to the house where the rods are run through the mill. They then squeeze the juice out of it and catch the liquid in big jugs. The liquid is squeezed out via the massive mill near the cane shed. There’s a large cypress pole attached to the mill that originally would have been hooked up to a mule and spun around the mill. The Varnums hook up their Gator and are able to drag it around with ease. The thin, sweet juice is then strained through burlap and cheese cloth and put in the kettle over a brick base. The family still uses a traditional wood fire to cook the syrup. It’s a tradition, several years in the making, for Scott Varnum and his daughter, Jessi Rae, to drink a bottle of the fresh cane juice right on the spot. It’s far too sweet for most of the attendees, but the duo look forward to it every year. Then the group waits, watching as the temperature slowly rises. The first batch takes approximately three hours, from there on out each consecutive batch takes around two and a half hours to complete. At all times someone is skimming the impurities from the top of the kettle, gathering each piece that floats to the surface and removing it from the pot. When the batch is finally complete it’s bottling time and all hands are on deck as the sweet liquid is poured into freshly cleaned bottles. Throughout the morning the gathered crowd gets biscuits, cornbread, sausage and ham and anything the attendees bring with them. Some of the family have begun bringing along a “big cooker” to help feed the ever growing crowd. Sometimes the growers bring a flat or two of strawberries, sometimes someone brings some citrus. It’s a simple meal, but one everyone looks forward to year after year. Children squeal with glee as they jump in and out of the hay in the barn and their parents stretch out and catch up with their friends. Scott Varnum and his father used to be the sole “chefs” and would take the responsibility of slowly cooking the juice down to a thick syrup. Then in September of 2014 everything changed. “When my daddy passed way on Sept. 30, 2014 we had to decide pretty quick if we were going to have our syrup cooking or not,” Scott Varnum said. “We decided to go ahead and have it. We didn’t think anybody would show up, but it was probably the greatest crowd we ever had. That was probably the year that we really knew what it’s all about. Our family all came. Our friends came. The doctor from the clinic came. It’s just a great gathering. It’s an old time, shoot the bull day.” A family friend now has taken over the responsibility of cooking down the juice. Though some of the dynamics of the event have changed since they first began in 2000, the energy and camaraderie have only continued to blossom. As the afternoon sun begins to beat down the group is wrapping up. Everyone that shows up walks away with a heavy bottle of their own. It’s not the last time the Varnum’s will crank up the fire during the season. Friends show up every time the mill starts to churn, but the second Saturday is the tradition everyone marks in their calendars to attend. “It brings a lot of people some good memories,” Mrs. Pat Varnum said. “Young people just want to watch it and see how you make syrup and some of us old-timers are enjoying remembering days like this from before. It’s a good gathering, people really enjoy it and we hope to continue to do it for quite some time.” INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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LAWMAKERS MAKE LAWS EARLY IN 2020
by John Dicks
The Florida Legislature starts cranking up its affairs early this year. Normally law-making things in Tallahassee get going about the same time as the Strawberry Festival. This year, though, the annual 60 day session gears up in January. Our state Constitution dictates the meeting dates. A couple of years ago, voters amended it to allow the session in even years to have an earlier start than the traditional springtime run, provided Legislators so decided. Of course “even years” also equates to “election years,” particularly for the 120 members of the House of Representatives, all of whom are elected every two years, consequently so in the even years. Likely, many of those legislators wanted an early start to the session in order to leave plenty of time for campaigning (and fundraising) as the year wears on. The official opening date for 2020 was marked on the calendar for January 14. Granted that’s a Tuesday, which may seem a bit odd, but I suppose that nobody really wanted to get to work on Monday. It sounds a bit silly, I know, but it is worth noting that it always has been such that the opening date is on a Tuesday. Probably that was first done back in the day when it took so long to get to Tallahassee, particularly by horseback, and by starting on Tuesday, Legislators had a long three day weekend to travel there. Things have changed, obviously, but not so for tradition. So a starting date of Tuesday it is. Making the opening day fall on the second Tuesday of the month (another tradition), means that Legislators arrive in the cold of Tallahassee, which it always most definitely is in January. There to greet them are thousands of proposed bills or legislation to consider. Most will never be passed. Probably fortunately so, too, since frankly, I always find it amazing, if not shocking, to note that our Legislators would suggest that there are so many things wrong with our beloved Sunshine State.
There will be several bills considered which may impact “home rule” authority of local jurisdictions. The “home rule” concept holds that leaders of cities and counties know better the needs, desires, and generally what works best on a local basis. Mayors and Commissioners certainly don’t want the State Government to dictate things. State Legislators, though, often get carried away with matters and want to mandate most everything from whether red-light cameras are allowed at stop lights to what day city elections shall be held. As a former Mayor and Commissioner myself, I can vouch for the frustration caused by such edicts from on high. One quick example of such meddling is that a few years ago, in the face of increased gun violence, some cities and counties (particularly in South Florida) enacted gun sales ordinances that were stricter than generally prevalent throughout the state. In 2011, the State preempted such actions, saying individual cities and counties were not permitted to do so. This year, bills have been filed to reverse the state’s mandate, thus allowing local jurisdictions to again adopt more strict ordinances. There are similar such proposals that will consider whether local governments can regulate all matters ranging from fireworks to sunscreen sales. Yes, really, sunscreen sales have become an issue because people in the Florida Keys are rightfully worried that certain sunscreens cause damage to coral reefs and don’t want the State Government to tell local governments what can and cannot be done about it! Since it is an election year, we can expect to see some posturing going on by Legislators who want to attract attention or otherwise create a statewide presence and name for themselves. There will also be a bit of nonessential stuff in the works, too. Already filed is a bill to have coconut patties declared Florida’s official candy. For what reason, I do not know, but I suppose that it is vitally important to some constituency group somewhere!
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John Dicks is both a lawyer and businessman, including an interest in farming. He and his family have owned a blueberry farm and have agricultural lands, which they lease for cattle operations, as John says, “to someone who knows and handles cattle much better than I do.” John is both a Gator, having received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and a Seminole, with his Law Degree from Florida State University. John serves as Of Counsel to Trinkle Redman, a law firm in Plant City where he also served nine years as City Commissioner, including three terms as Mayor.
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E n d a n g e r e d S p e c i es
A Big Blow: North Atlantic Right Whale
By Ginny Mink
As we begin a new year, “Welcome 2020,” it is important to review some of the effects of the past year on Florida’s endangered and imperiled species. Though some species saw improvement in their numbers, namely manatees, one species continues to be on the verge of extinction. This is the North Atlantic Right Whale. The North Atlantic Right Whale has a distinct appearance that can be readily recognized thanks to the white calluses on its head. Its broad back is topped with the signature whale dorsal fin and its mouth is very long and arching, beginning just above the eye.¹ In 2018, the North Atlantic Right Whale population bore no calves. This was quite detrimental to the population increase hopes. At a population of only 399, the fact that 2019 saw the births of seven calves didn’t do much to improve their chances of continued existence. Florida Today claims that, “Right whales appear the worst off of all Florida’s endangered wildlife.”² These enormous creatures can weigh up to 70 tons and are known to live as long as 70 years. They can get to lengths of 52 feet. These whales have been included under the Endangered Species Act since 1970. And, of the almost 400 North Atlantic Right Whales alive today, less than 100 of them are known to be breeding females. Recent years have seen some serious mortality issues among these whales.³ Perhaps some of you recall a whale named Clipper that made headlines after swimming into the Sebastian Inlet near the Indian River Lagoon. This was about three years ago, and she had her calf with her at the time. She was roughly 45 feet long and her baby was 18 feet in length. They spent about a day in that location. Unfortunately, she was killed in June of this year after being hit by a ship in Canada. Ironically, her name was based on the fact that at some previous time a part of her tail had been ‘clipped’ off by a ship.² This was a big blow for whale lovers, especially those familiar with Clipper’s story. North Atlantic Right Whales are baleen whales. This means they feed by swimming with their mouths open through swarms of plankton. They keep their heads slightly above water when doing this.¹ Then, they filter out the tiny organisms through the baleen in their mouths. This traps the plankton and copepods they live off of.³ We cannot give up hope for saving the North Atlantic Right Whale even when things look bleak.
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The reality is, that in recent years more adult females than males have been killed. And, since it takes females ten years to reach sexual maturity this could cause serious problems. Pregnancies take a year and only produce one calf. Then there will be a three year break between the next pregnancy. Unfortunately, scientists have noticed that this length of time has increased from three years to somewhere between six and ten between pregnancies. These whales are reproducing at roughly a third of their average annual birth rate.³
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In the 1930s, whaling became a serious problem for whale populations and was therefore put to a stop. Unfortunately, that decimation has had lingering results. Though it is no longer legal to hunt what early whalers deemed the “right” whales, from whence they got their name, their ocean habitats are still not safe for them. The biggest threats to their existence are ship collisions, entanglements in fishing nets, and the separation of mother from calf due to shipping traffic. Even small threats seem to have significant impact when you are dealing with such a small population.¹ So, what is being done about it? Well, NOAA Fisheries says that they are committed to protecting and helping recover the severely diminished population. They have some methods and strategies in place to make that happen. These include protecting and designating critical habitats. They seek to rescue whales that are entangled in fishing nets and want to reduce the injuries and mortality caused by these things. Their scientists are investigating North Atlantic Right Whale deaths and they are tracking individual whales to monitor the population.³ Additionally, World Wildlife Federation was able to change the shipping lanes in Canada’s Bay of Fundy. This significant milestone occurred in 2003 and has been able to reduce the risk of ships striking these whales by up to 80 percent. In reality, it is up to the International Whaling Commission to regulate whaling and address the threats to this species.¹ If you are looking for ways to help, make sure you report North Atlantic Right Whale sightings. You can do that by calling 877-WHALE-HELP or by contacting the U.S. Coast Guard. Anytime you see distressed marine life you should report that as well. And, stay 500 yards away from any North Atlantic Right Whale you might come in contact with. This is rule is designed to protect the whales, and the distance from them includes drones, so don’t try to get “great footage.” As we tell you every month, these creatures are put here by God and serve a unique purpose in His plan. As stewards of this planet it is our job to keep these animals safe! Resources: ¹World Wildlife Federation. (2019). North Atlantic Right Whale. https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/north-atlantic-rightwhale# ²Waymer, J. (2019). Florida’s imperiled species see good news and bad news in 2019. Florida Today. https://www.floridatoday. com/story/news/local/environment/2019/12/06/someflorida-endangered-species-fared-better-2019-but-whalesstruggled/2606358001/ ³NOAA Fisheries. (2019). North Atlantic Right Whale. https:// www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/north-atlantic-right-whale Photo Credit: Packard, Lauren. (2003). North Atlantic Right Whale. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/i2VSU1 WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Celebrating a most fruitful relationship
between Florida Strawberry Growers and International Paper.
1979
Together we’re sure to enjoy many more years of sweet success.
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2402 Police Center Dr Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 717-9100 6706 N. 53rd St Tampa, FL 33610 (813) 744-2220 Sales: Dean Fultz (901) 355-5197 or Jim Johnson (813) 205-0355
2001
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Present
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CONGRATULATIONS
to Reanna and Christopher our No Farmers, No Food In The Field custom made rod by Fishgillz winners. Make sure to stay tuned for even more giveaways by signing up for our newsletter www.inthefieldmagazine.com and following our Facebook and Instagram!
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If you would like a custom built rod reach out to FishGillz at 813-836-9806.
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s e p i c e R These recipes come from WWW.STRAWBERRYSUE.COM
Florida Strawberry & Gorgonzola Salad INGREDIENTS 6 cups of fresh spinach 1 cup of fresh strawberries, sliced 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped 1 apple, sliced thin 4 tbs of your favorite vinaigrette
DIRECTIONS Toss all ingredients and serve immediately.
Easy Strawberry Cobbler
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Bring strawberries to room temperature. Wash, drain and remove caps. Slice strawberries and toss with 1 tbsp of sugar. Place the stick of butter in a 9×13” baking dish, or for a thicker cobbler use a 8×8” baking dish. Put the baking dish in the oven to melt the butter.
Remove baking dish from the oven and pour cobbler base into the middle of the pan. Next pour the prepared strawberries down the middle of the cobbler. Avoid your temptation to stir!
16 oz strawberries 1 cup plus 1 tbsp sugar 1 stick butter 1 cup flour 1 cup milk 1 tsp vanilla extract
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
Meanwhile, in medium bowl combine sugar, flour, milk and vanilla, whisking until smooth.
INGREDIENTS
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DIRECTIONS
Bake at 350°F for one hour.
Serve with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious and easy treat! January 2020
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By Ginny Mink
Ornamental Gardening in Florida Part 64 Welcome to a new year and a new adventure on the Literary Time Machine. Join us as we embark on a journey through Mr. Charles Torrey Simpson’s 1926 book entitled: Ornamental Gardening in Florida. As we do every month, we expect to learn a great deal from this well-versed plant-man. This month we will begin with Ravenala. He writes, “Two species of remarkable, strong growing plants are placed under this generic name. R. madagascariensis, Traveler’s tree and R. guyanensis from northern South America. I have a specimen of the latter which has gone through with many vicissitudes such as having to be moved twice, but is now doing well and promises to become a fine plant.”¹ He continues, “The former is rather common in cultivation in Dade County. On the high pineland it reaches a height of perhaps twelve feet, blooms and occasionally ripens seed. I have a very large specimen planted just at the juncture of the high hammock and the lowland and I have permitted it to freely throw up suckers. It reaches a height of thirty feet, the great leaf stems being fifteen feet long and the size of a man’s arm below, while the blades are fully three feet wide and nine feet long.”¹ As if those measurements don’t seem outrageous enough, he adds, “A single flower cluster is four feet across and weighs twenty pounds but none of these have ever produced seeds. It is possible that if the suckers were kept removed it would seed. This is one of the most tropical appearing growths we cultivate here and it seems to be perfectly at home though once or twice it has been temporarily injured by frost.”¹ Impressive in size, and according to him, well suited for Florida living. But what exactly is the Ravenala? The Missouri Botanical Garden raves about the Traveler’s tree being a great addition to parks and larger landscapes. They suggest that it is a showy specimen and is, “Best sited in areas where sky (rather than trees or buildings) is in the background so that the outstanding ornamental characteristics of this plant can be best observed.”² They suggest that it looks a little like a banana tree given its leaf shape and size and some refer to it as the traveler’s palm. Having looked at this unique growing ornamental tree, and doing a little research, it seems like it might make an amazing looking addition to the center of a pasture or a large yard. It would definitely draw attention and become the focal point of any landscape design. Truly a unique looking tree, but research suggests it gets a good deal larger than Mr. Simpson claimed!
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Given that interesting tree, we are forced to wonder what else Mr. Simpson might introduce us to this month. As we read on, he pens, “Russelia juncea, the Coral plant from Mexico was a
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greenhouse favorite when I was a boy. Here in Lower Florida it is apparently as much at home as it is in its native land for where it is planted it takes possession. However, if it is mowed down when in full growth it may be kept from spreading. It is always on a dress parade throwing out its long slender branches that are constantly full of its slender, tubular scarlet blossoms.”
While this plant might sound attractive, it also had our “spidey senses” wondering if today we would consider the Russelia juncea an invasive species. Oddly enough, our research revealed that it is still cultivated in Florida and has only escaped cultivation in the Grand Cayman Islands. And, pictures certainly reveal a plant that we are quite familiar with and have seen in a number of yards here in Plant City. So, if you are looking to add a splash of red to your landscape design, and perhaps attract some butterflies or hummingbirds, this might be the plant for you! As we wind down on this adventure, we will look at one last plant he recommends, the Sanseveria. He writes, “Strong growing plants with creeping rhizomes that send up long, thick leaves which have various patterns of variegation. Here if turned loose in the open they take possession unless they are grubbed back and they would better be planted in some restricted area…Useful for fiber and sometimes called Bowstring hemp. They rarely produce their very handsome flowers.” The idea of some acceptable “hemp” growing here is intriguing. Yet, we were sorely dismayed to discover that these plants are better known to the world as Snake Plant or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue. So much for hopeful “hemp” enthusiasts. No doubt you have seen these plants all over the place. That said, we hope that you have enjoyed your time on the Literary Time Machine and that you will takes some of these plants into consideration as you continue happily gardening through 2020! Resources: ¹ Simpson, Charles T. (1926). Ornamental Gardening in Florida. Published by the Author; Little River, FL. Printed by J.J. Little and Ives Company, New York. (p. 193-196). ²Missouri Botanical Garden. (2019). Ravenala madagascariensis. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/ PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282805 Photo Credits: Cutler, Wendy. (2015). RavenalaMadagascariensis_ByodoinTemple. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/246Lppc gailhampshire. (2016). Coral or Fountain Plant. Russelia Juncea. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/F97Pxo Hornbeam Arts. (2014). Mother-in-Law’s Tongue. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/p2LSfH WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Just in time for
Christmas........
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On December 20, the Durant and J.F. St. Martin FFA chapters made a special presentation to students at Trapnell and J. S. Robinson Elementary School. FFA members were able to secure 39 bicycles to present to students just before Christmas break. These bicycles were donated by FFA members
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from both chapters, as well as the Durant FFA Alumni. This was the 25th year of this event and is always special for FFA members as well as the elementary students. Santa Claus made a special guest appearance and helped distribute the bicycles.
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From All of Us at In The Field Magazine
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A Closer LookAmazing Activities Naturally
by Sean Green
Popsicle Stick Cooper This month we are featuring a quick but cute craft made with popsicle sticks. We are going to make an old fashion barrel to hold a glass fragrant candle. Up until the early 1900s, almost everything was stored or shipped in wooden barrels called coopers. White oak was used for casks that held liquids. Red oak, ash, chestnut, pine, and spruce were used for dried goods as well as salted meat, butter, oils, paint, white lead and even toxic chemicals. Our project is with popsicle sticks, which are traditionally made of white birch, which would have been a more common material in the northern states such as Maine. For our purpose, popsicle sticks are perfectly appropriate to give your candles a rustics theme.
Supplies: Popsicle Sticks (craft sticks) Hot Glue Fabric Glue Rubber Bands Toilet Paper Role Ribbon (optional) Jewelry Wire (optional)
Production:
gently roll the rubber band away from the ribbon band so it does not stick to the glue and your project. Allow to dry, the barrel can be lifted off the candle and reused for another candle.
Measure and cut a role of toilet paper to fit around the candle. It does not have to be full size; we will glue the craft sticks to the toilet paper rather than the candle so new candles can be placed inside the finished barrel Measure one stick to the desired size, cut enough sticks to size to go completely around the candle. Using a rubber band, position the toilet paper and craft sticks around the candle without glue.
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This will allow for adjustments before gluing.
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Add a line of hot glue between the craft stick and toilet paper (see below). One at a time, pry the craft stick away from the toilet paper, squirt a line of glue onto the toilet paper, release the craft stick back in place. Continue until all sticks are glued.
Options:
Adjust rubber bands as a guide for the banding of the barrel Draw a line of fabric glue alone the edge of the rubber band Tack ribbon to the wet fabric glue,
The banding can be done with any material that is handy. Consider using jewelry wire, folded foil, twine, even a painted rubber band.
For a more rustic look, the craft sticks can be dyed with any wood stain or painted.
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A Closer Look
by Sean Green
Red Shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) (that feed on carrion) but also Old-World hawks and eagles. Buteo is a genus of raptors with broad wings that we associate with vultures circling high above in the thermal winds. In the Old World, members of this genus are called “buzzards,” In North America we call this genus “hawk.” There are 26 species worldwide and are found on every continent except Antarctica. Unlike vultures, birds in the Buteo genus are hunters, typically ambushing live prey from a perch but will scavenge a carcass if live food sources are scarce. The word raptor comes from the Latin word “rapio” which means to take by force, a fitting name for a hunter. The term “buzzard” is incorrectly used synonymously with the term “vulture” and the history of the confusion is a simple misunderstanding. When Europeans began exploring and colonizing North America, they gave familiar names to unfamiliar birds. The flight patterns of our own turkey vultures (Cathartes aura), black vultures (Coragyps atratus) soaring the thermal currents reminded early Europeans of birds they called the “buzzard” (Bueto) in Europe. The New World vultures, although not of the Buteo genus, were incorrectly called “buzzards” for their similar flight pattern. The mistake was perpetrated throughout our history and eventual cataloging of North American species; however, the common name stuck and remains a synonym for vulture, a bird that is more closely related to a stork than to an eagle. There are five subspecies of Bueto in North America, we have two right here in Florida that include: B. l. alleni (Ridgway, 1885) that ranges from parts of Oklahoma to South Carolina and N Florida and another, B. l. extimus (Bangs, 1920) that is limited to South and Central Florida through the Florida Keys. Our local species, commonly called I hope your holidays were safe and included some time spent Bangs Red Shouldered Hawk B. l. extimus is both beautiin nature. The cooler weather is a refreshing change to the ful and fascinating and I encourage you to enjoy the cooler sometimes-brutal heat of Florida hiking. For folks that avoid the weather and take a closer look. trails because of mosquitoes, spiders, and snakes, you will be pleased to discover such critters will shut down when temperatures drop below 50 °F. Lucky for us, we live in Florida and our winters are mild enough that we can see beautiful wild life on the trails year round. On a recent hike, I was thrilled to have come within 30 feet of one of my favorite raptors, the red shouldered hawk. Because the trails were lonely on a weekday and I did not have a dog with me, this majestic bird was not intimidated, and I got to take a closer look. For over an hour, we kept each other’s company as I watched this hawk fly from tree to tree but never out of my sight and was even treated to a demonstration of its hunting skills as it ambushed a small field mouse. Red-shouldered Hawks are raptors that belong to the genus buteo. It’s genus alone is topic for interesting discussion. The genus name buteo is the Greek word for buzzard and has long been described as medium to large raptor (bird of prey) characterized by having large wings with which to soar on thermal currents. This term can be troublesome in the United States because we often associate the word buzzard with animals that should be properly identified as vultures. Vultures are the large bald-headed scavenging birds that generally get a bad rap for eating dead things and are more often chased away than admired. This is not fair hospitality considering the critical importance of their carcass disposal service. Afterall, their work keeps both human and natural environments clean and disease free. There are 23 vulture species worldwide, only 7 of which are in the New World; these are part of the Cathartidae family of birds. The name originates from the Greek “cathartes” for “purifier” and include condors and vultures. The other 16 vulture species are found in the Old World and belong to the larger Accipitridae family from the Latin “accipiter” (“hawk”) and the Greek “idea” (eidos, “appearance”). It is important to note the Accipitridae family is a large family that includes not only vultures INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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NEWS BRIEFS
Compiled by Jim Frankowiak
(SNAP) rule. Able-bodied citizens between the ages of 18 and 49 without dependents are now encouraged to work as they participate in SNAP. A three-month limit within a 36-month time period applies for benefits, unless the recipient works or participates in a work-training program for at least 20 hours. The agency can waive the time limit in areas of high unemployment. States can also enact exemptions. The new rule does not apply to older recipients, those who are disabled or pregnant women. The rule is accessible at https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/fr120419.
Updated Weed Identification Guide Available The University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension bookstore has released an updated version of “Identification of Weeds in Florida Citrus,” a pocketsized, quick reference guide to weeds commonly observed throughout the state, as well as frequently found in citrus groves. The cost of the publication is $10 and it can be purchased online at http://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-249-identification-ofweeds-in-florida-citrus.aspx NCBA Accepting Nominations for 2020 Environmental Stewardship Award The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is accepting applications for its 2020 Environmental Stewardship Award, which recognizes the nation’s beef cattle and livestock operations and their stewardship and conservation efforts. The deadline for applications is March 5. For more information, visit: https://www.environmentalstewardship.org/ awards/application. USDA Opens Signup for Conservation Reserve Program The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has opened signup for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Farmers and ranchers who enroll in CRP receive a yearly rental payment for voluntarily establishing long-term, resource-conserving plant species, such as approved grasses or trees (known as “covers”) to control soil erosion, improve water quality and develop wildlife habitat on marginally productive agricultural lands. More information is available at fsa.usda.gov/crp . USDA Changes SNAP Rule
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
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Bronson Animal Disease Lab Offers Sample Shipping Service The Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (BADDL) in Kissimmee is now offering United Parcel Service (UPS) and FedEx as couriers for shipping samples to the lab. Information on the new courier service and packaging is available by visiting www.fdacs.gov/baddl , and selecting the “create shipping labels” option. USDA Seeks Comments on EQIP Rule The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking public comments on its interim rule for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the program that gives farmers, ranchers and forest landowners tools to improve their agricultural operations while conserving natural resources. Comments can be made through February 17 through regulations.gov under Docket ID NRCS-2019-0009. “Field to the Hill” Set for April 28-30 Florida Farm Bureau will host members in Washington, D.C. April 28-30 for American Farm Bureau Federation briefings and engagement with policymakers in the nation’s capital as part of the annual “Field to the Hill” program. More information will be available soon, but mark your calendars now.
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PARTS & EQUIPMENT IN STOCK AT KENNCO YEAR ROUND!!!! You know what works... and we’ve listened to you.
Kennco’s new line of Strawberry Equipment is compatible with your current equipment and proven to form rounded beds on 48” row centers, lay tight plastic and drip, resulting in the
best berries.
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Plant City strawberries are the best in the world. 64
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Call for details!
KENNCO MANUFACTURING, INC. P.O. Box 1158 | Ruskin, FL 33575 | 800-645-2591 | Fax 813-645-7801 Sales@KenncoMfg.com | www.KenncoMfg.com
Hear about specials and deliveries in your area. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Classifieds BUILDING SUPPLIES METAL ROOFING Thousands of 8ft. & 10ft. sheets. In Stock. Prices from $6 and up. Custom lengths available. 813-752-7088 ask for Ferris.
Info@inthefieldmagazine.com
Tel: 813.759.6909
JOHN DEERE 7230 & 5310 Eight foot wheel centers, narrow tiers, excellent condition 2560 hours $65,000 obo. John Deere 5310 4 foot wheel centers, narrow tiers 3800 hours, fair condition. $8500 obo. Call 813-361-2806
ALUMINUM We have all your aluminum needs! Screen Room, carports & awnings. Call Blake (813) 752-3378
SPRAYER * WATER WAGON * PLASTIC MACHINE 1000 Gal sprayer. Eight foot wheel centers, narrow tiers, good condition $12,000 obo. 1000 Gal water wagon, eight foot wheel cenWINDOW SCREENS We make window screens of all sizes available ters, narrow tiers. Good condition $6,000 obo. Single row plastic machine, Dervin built. in different frame colors. $6,000 obo. Call 813-361-2806 Call Ted(813) 752-3378 CABINETS MAHINDRA 4025 All wood kitchen cabinets. All wood vanities. 4x4, 41hp, low hours. $10,000 Granite counter tops. Custom made to your size. Call Alvie at 813-759-8722 Call Blake 813-752-3378 VINYL SIDING Many colors and styles to choose from. Ask for Ted. 813-752-3378 MOBILE HOME SUPPLIES Everything you need under ONE roof! Call Blake 813-752-3378 CALL FOR A WINDOW QUOTE. We are a MI Windows dealer. Our windows are energy star, lifetime warranty. Call Broke & Poor 813-752-3378
FARM EQUIPMENT 2015 MAHINDRA 100S 100hp, 4x4, Cab tractor for $25,000.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
FOR SALE BETOMIX 320 3 pointy lift, pto driven cement mixer. Very good condition. $850 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 OLD ANTIQUE BLUE STOVE Bread warmer, chrome trim. You have got to see it to believe it! Call Ted for more details. 813-752-3378
MISC. FREE Wooden Shipping Pallets All sizes! Call Alvie 813-759-8722 24 HOUR SERVICE Coggins Plumbing licensed • bonded • Insured. www.cogginsplumbing.com 813-643-7173 FARM BUREAU INSURANCE We have you covered! Call us today. 813-752-5577 LOOKING TO BUY OR SALE? Call Rhonda Wetherington, P.A. Realtor, GRI. 813-933-1761 ALAN’S AIR CONDITIONING Residential, Commercial Sales SVS & Repair. Legendary service for over 20 years! 813-752-0821 FOR RENT Millcreek Pine Bark Row Mulcher. For blueberry farms, six yard, PTO drive need at least a 30hp tractor. Call 863-604-2526 for rental details.
DOORS & WINDOWS SPECIAL ORDER No upcharge. House & Mobile Home. Many standard sizes in stock. Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378 KITCHEN CABINETS & VANITIES Get quality all wood cabinets for less than the BIG Box STORES! Call Today! Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378
I4 POWER EQUIPMENT Trade-Ins Welcomed, Service Department Available. Exit 22 • S. Frontage Rd. Plant City 813-752-4459 CROSSBOW Barnett Squad 300 w/Rhino 4x32mm Crossbow Scope, Case And Arrows. TAYLOR WAY TILLER DISC Great Condition! Call 813-376-9320 Plow - good condition. $1750.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
JOBS
HESSTON 4550 Inline square baler. $7,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 2018 MMAHINDRA 4540 2wd tractor. Low hours with warranty. $8,750 Ask for Alvie 813-759-8722
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JOHN DEERE Looking for your new tractor? Come see us at Everglades Farm Equipment. evergladesfarmequipment.com 2805 SR 60 West, Plant City 813-737-1660 2018 Massey Ferguson 1526 Hydrostat transmission , 4x4 tractor with loader and 60” mid mount mower. 75 actual hours. Warranty. $16,500.00. Call Alvie 813-759-8722
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MECHANIC NEEDED Agricultural equipment. Pay with benefits based on experience. Call David 863-537-1345
LAWN EQUIPMENT/ SUPPLIES BRAND NEW HUSTLER RAPTOR Zero Turn Mower 52” cut, 23hp. Kohler engine, 3 year warranty. $2,999 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
PRODUCE FRESH PRODUCE Forbes Road Produce. Open everyday from 7:30am - 8pm. Forbes Rd. & I-4 @ exit 17. Come out and see us!
TRADE • BUY • SELL? Since 2004 In The Field has been Hillsborough and Polk Countys #1 Agriculture Magazine. Call Us at 813-759-6909 to place your Ad Today!
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