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JUNE 2020 VOL. 15 • ISSUE 8
CONTENTS CHRIS ‘BEAR’ MCCULLOUGH NEW HILLSOROUGH COUNTY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT
44 PAGE 12 Annuals
PAGE 36 Jack Payne
PAGE 10 Business Up Front
PAGE 38 Austin’s Microgreens PAGE 42 Swine Study
PAGE 18 Fishing Hot Spots
PAGE 46 John Dicks
PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter
PAGE 48 Endangered Species PAGE 52 Literary Time Machine
PAGE 27 HCSO
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
Cover and Article Photos by: Karen Barry
PAGE 16 Dream
Hillsborough County Farm Bureau 305 S. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL.
Dennis Carlton, Jr.....................President Jake Raburn................Vice President Tony Lopez..............Treasurer Buddy Coleman..................Secretary 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
PAGE 29 USDA Assistance
PAGE 54 A Closer look
PAGE 33 News Briefs
PAGE 56 Activity
PAGE 35 Everglades Tomato
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
Hey Readers!
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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 What is happening?!?!? This year just keeps throwing curve balls, am I right? The first U.S. coronavirus case was reported in Washington State on January 20. He landed in Seattle after visiting China according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At that time, the coronavirus had killed 17 people and infected more than 470 in China, spreading to other countries like South Korea, Japan, Taiwan and Thailand. It’s been downhill from there. Florida Farm Bureau has created a resource page for farmers and ranchers to check for updates on COVID-19 and the impact on agriculture. They included educational resources and a photo album of Florida Famers and Ranchers. Check it out at www.floridafarmbureau.org/covid-19-resources/.In addition, the Florida Cattlemen’s Association has included links to COVID-19 reference material on their website at www. floridacattlemen.org/news/covid-19-reference-material-forms-frequently-asked-questions/d the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association information is available at www.ncba.org/coronavirus.aspx . While things are slowly opening, many farmers and ranchers who lost their traditional markets are finding other ways to connect with local consumers. The importance of a safe, abundant food source has been launched to the forefront during the pandemic. Please remember to support your local farmer and rancher. When shopping for you food, check the label. Look for Fresh From Florida produce. Support those who work so hard to keep food on our tables. Stay safe and help your neighbors.
Until next month,
Sarah Holt The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25
Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Editor Patsy Berry Sales Karen Berry Sarah Holt Melissa Nichols Creative Director/Illustrator Juan Alvarez Photography Karen Berry Stephanie Humphry Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Breanne Williams Anita Todd Contributing Writers Woody Gore John Dicks Social Media Victoria Saunders
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. 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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STAY SAFE AND UP-TO-DATE DURING THESE CHALLENGEING TIMES HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
-Dennis Carlton Jr. - President
billion to purchase fresh produce, dairy and meat that is then boxed and provided to Americans in need.
Greetings, I sincerely hope that each of you and your families are doing well during these difficult times. While staying safe and conforming with the guidance provided by health officials is of importance, there is another dimension to this that is particularly noteworthy to agricultural producers. Farmers and ranchers in this area, state and nation have all been impacted by COVID-19. However, help is available, but it is vital that you keep abreast of the various programs of assistance. We have found that changes take place regularly. I am pleased that the helpful staff at Florida Farm Bureau provides members with information that is updated on a regular basis. Visit: https://www.floridafarmbureau.org/ covid-19-resources/ and stay abreast of changes in various aid measures by checking this site. This edition of IN THE FIELD Magazine has information on the multi-billion-dollar Coronavirus Farm Assistance Program (CFAP) that provides direct assistance to producers. I encourage farmers and ranchers to see how that program may be of assistance. That same article has information on the USDA’s Farmers to Families Food Box program. That initiative partners with regional and local distributors whose workforces have been impacted by the closure of restaurants, hotels and other food service entities, providing $3
Both CFAP and the Farmers to Families Food Box program are active now and accepting applications from producers. Also, the Florida Farm Bureau website noted earlier contains updates on either of these programs. Again, my thanks to Farm Bureau for keeping us up-to-date and supporting our industry not only during these trying times, but on a continuing basis. If you are reading this letter, but are not a Farm Bureau member, please consider joining. Membership helps both your family and our industry. To learn more about Farm Bureau and the opportunities and benefits membership offers, please contact us at: www.hcfarmbureau.org or call our office in Plant City at 813/6859121. Your membership will help make the Voice of Agriculture just a little louder. Thank you. Dennis Carlton, Jr.
Dennis Carlton Jr. Dennis Carlton Jr. - President
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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Business Up Front
Formula of Champions Steer
Liz - Lead Stylist at Fishhawk Crystal - Lead Stylist in Plant City
Linder Fed Pigs
ACTIVE FFA MEMBERSHIP LEADS TO ENTREPRENURIAL PATH INVOLVING PET STYLING COUPLED WITH ALL-NATURAL AND HIGHER QUALITY PET NUTRITION AND MORE. By Jim Frankowiak Chris McGeorge, the founder and owner of Le Petite Pooch, is a Tampa Bay Tech alumnus who graduated in 2001. While a student there, he was a “member of the FFA and held many chapter positions under Mr. Frank Surrency’s leadership.” McGeorge went on to finish his state FFA degree and exhibited poultry throughout Florida and the U.S. “As a previous employee of a corporate pet store chain, I found a passion for pet styling, as well as all-natural and high quality pet nutrition and decided to pursue my career as an entrepreneur,” he said. McGeorge is the proprietor of Le Petite Pooch, which was founded in 2010, and now has four locations that provide pet styling, and bathing with select stores offering natural pet foods. “We have locations in Lithia, Fishhawk, Valrico and Plant City,” McGeorge noted. “Our stylists are certified and continue to further their education on pet care, health and grooming. They are able to perform grooming services for all breeds of dogs and cats. “It’s also important to note that all of our grooming locations book by the hour to minimize the amount of wait time, for both pets and owners,” said McGeorge. “We use all natural, holistic shampoos and Blueberry facials and nail dremeling are included as part of our pet grooming services.” The pet stylists at Le Petite Pooch consider “grooming your best friend to be an honor” and they each appreciate the opportunity to “bring a smile to your pet’s face.” “Our Plant City location has recently expanded to include high quality livestock feeds and hay,” he said. “We specialize in exhibition livestock feeds and supplements to help take our customers’ projects to the next level. Our lines of feed include Lindner, Purple Pursuit, Kalmbach, Formula of Champions, Tribute, Auto Pilot, Manna Pro and Hillandale.
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“They are formulated for exhibition swine, cattle, goat, lamb, performance horses, rabbits and poultry. We also have a large selection of our everyday homestead livestock animal feeds,” said McGeorge. “We selectively chose Lindner swine feeds for its outstanding reputation. They continually produce
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award-winning show projects such as the 2020 Strawberry Festival Grand Champion, Dakota Grigson, as well as the Reserve Grand Champion, Avery Ashley. “Tribune equine nutrition is formulated with guaranteed ingredient panels and low NSC formulas, with several no corn options available,” he said. “All of our hay and feed is kept in an indoor climate-controlled facility. Overall, we work diligently to keep our overhead low so we can maintain competitive pricing for all of our products,” said McGeorge. As to the future, McGeorge anticipates expanding further “into southern Hillsborough and Polk counties with both livestock feeds and pet styling. “Our approach to pet styling and the products we carry have growing appeal. We look forward to meeting new friends and brining smiles to their faces,” he said. To reach the Le Petite Pooch closest to you, visit or call: • Le Petite Pooch Pet Salon – Lithia -- 10421 CR 39 (ACE Shopping Center) – 813-654-5706 • Le Petite Pooch Pet Spa – Fishhawk -- 16731 Fishhawk Blvd. (Winn-Dixie Shopping Center) 813-820-3343 • Le Petite Pooch Pet Salon & Market – Valrico – 2553 East State Road 60 (Winn-Dixie Shopping Center) 813-530-0994 • Le Petite Pooch Pet Salon & Market – Plant City – 2410 James L. Redman Parkway (Dollar General Plaza next to Beef “O” Brady’s) 813-652-8249
You can also obtain more information and book appointments online at: www.lepetitepooch.net. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Heat Seeking Annuals LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPINGTM AGENT Annuals provide a great opportunity to color-up your landscape, front porch and lanai, whether in the ground or in containers. Most Florida annuals last one season, not one year. There are both warm and cool season annuals. This article focuses on warm season annuals, which are so named because they are damaged by frosts and freezes. You need to know your site conditions because these elements will help you make plant selection decisions that will save you time and money. Consider whether the planting area is in the sun, shade or part sun and part shade. Is the soil texture clay loam, sandy loam, sand or sandy clay? Is the area well drained, wet or in between? What is the size of the landscape bed you want to utilize? Once you have this information, you can make good plant selection decisions because if you purchase first and make these determinations later, the plants will not survive or thrive. That will cost you time and money to purchase replacements. For plant selection, you may need to do a little homework on the plants you want; such as their mature size, whether they are warm season plants or cool season plants, need sun or shade, preferred soil type, etc. Just because plants are sold at a certain time of year does not mean they will thrive at that time of year in your landscape or are even viable for this area of the country, which is why a little research on your part may be worth it dollar and time-wise. This is easier than it appears. Access the University of Florida website: http://edis.ifas.ufl. edu and you can type in specific plants and many other topics to review the information you seek. You can also order a free copy of The Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design from Southwest Florida Water Management District at: https://www.swfwmd.state. fl.us/, click on Resources, then Free Publications. Site preparation is also important. Add 2-3 inches of organic matter to the soil surface. This can be peat, compost (processed worm, mushroom, cow manure) or a potting soil mixture. Top the compost with a controlled (slow)-release fertilizer according to the label and mark your calendar when the next application will be needed.
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Dig the hole for the plant so 10 percent of the container size is above ground level. Water the plant before and after it is planted. Space the plants according to their mature size, not how they look the day you plant them. Water as needed until the plants are established which means you can see shoot growth. (It also means root growth, but it’s hard to see that when roots are below the ground!) Microirrigation works well for watering annuals, and be sure to direct the water to the roots and soil, not to the leaves or flowers.
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Mulch the area so it is 2-3 inches deep when settled and pull the mulch away from the base of the plants. Mulch retains soil moisture, and this moisture next to the stem of the plant could cause damage and attract insects or disease. Mulch moderates the soil temperature, reduces runoff and erosion, improves the soil structure, suppresses weeds and enhances the beauty of the landscape. I selected three warm season annuals that do well in central Florida. They include Caladium, Coleus, and Wax begonia. CALADIUM: This is a fast-growing bulb that can reach a height and spread of 1-2 feet. It prefers slightly acid to slightly alkaline soil pH of 6.0 to 7.2. Any soil texture works well. Soil moisture should be well drained. Caladium has medium drought tolerance and low to no salt tolerance. Different varieties prefers partial shade, full shade or full sun. COLEUS: This is a fast growing plant that can reach a height and spread of 1-3 feet. It prefers slightly acid to slightly alkaline soil pH of 6.0 to 7.2. Any soil texture works well. Soil moisture should be medium drained. Coleus has low drought tolerance and low to no salt tolerance. It prefers full sun and performs well in partial shade/partial sun. Propagation from cuttings is very easy. WAX BEGONIA: This is a slow growing annual that can reach a height and spread of ½ - 1 feet. It prefers slightly acid to slightly alkaline soil pH of 6.0 to 7.2. Any soil texture works well. Soil moisture should be well drained. Wax begonia has low drought tolerance and low to no salt tolerance. It prefers partial shade/partial sun. For more information on annuals, please see the University of Florida publication, “Gardening with Annuals”, by Sydney Park Brown, at: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg319, from which this article was adapted. You may also be interested in The University of Florida Central Florida Gardening Calendar which contains month-by-month information on what to plant, when to prune, fertilize, etc. To view this calendar, go to: http://edis. ifas.ufl.edu/ep450. As always, if you live in a deed restricted community, follow the landscape or architectural control procedures before making changes. For more information about the nine principles of the Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Program or for assistance with gardening related questions, contact our office, 813-744-5519, and/or visit our website for information and upcoming events at: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/. Get outside and garden! It can improve your attitude, health and landscape. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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EIGHTY-YEAR-OLD DREAM
By George J. Elder
This dream started in the fall of 1939 at the corner of Cornett and Alsobrook Street at Shorty Williams Grocery Store. I was looking in the front door of the store and Felton was at the cash register and Leo and Dorothy were stacking grocery shelves. Dinky was behind the meat counter with Mr. Shorty. I left there going west on the side of Alsobrook Street, stopping ever now and then picking sand spurs out of my feet. Before I got to Collins Street my eyes started burning from the smoke from the crate mill. You could smell it for miles. When I got to Collins Street there was an elderly lady trying to cross the street with an arm full of groceries that she had bought at Smith Brothers grocery store. I assisted her by helping her across the street and putting her groceries in her car (a 1929 Model A Ford). I left going north on Collins Street kicking cans every now and then. When I saw a funny shaped bottle, I thought, “I wonder what that is?” To satisfy my curiosity I picked it up and removed the cap. To my surprise out popped a Genie. He said, “Young feller if you had one wish for assisting the lady with her groceries and one only what would it be?” Without even hesitating I replied, “a bicycle.” He said keep going north on Collins Street until you get to Arthur Tickel’s bicycle shop and talk to Mr. Tickel. I kind of laughed and headed north being careful not to step on any broken glass or sand spurs. When I got to the bike shop, I told Mr. Tickel, a heavy-set dark complected super, super gentleman about the Genie. Mr. Tickel said a funny looking man left a bike out front and said it was for me. I went and looked and sure enough there it was; the prettiest red bike that I had ever seen. I looked back at Mr. Tickel and he said sure enough it’s yours. I got on it, being careful not to fall and skin it up. I headed north on Collins Street. The first person I saw was Jimmy Pollock. It must have been Monday morning. He was sweeping up the trash and ticket stubs left from the Saturday night drawing at Rogers and Middlebrooks grocery store. He waved and I waved back.
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Mr. Jack Hooker’s Department Store was on the right after you crossed the railroad tracks. I passed McCroy’s Five and Ten Cent Store on my left. Mr. Otis Andrews was standing out front and he waved. I turned left at the bank going west on Reynolds Street. On my right
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were Moody’s Drug Store, Edgar Hulls Jewelry Store and the Capital Theatre. I knew it was not Saturday because there was not a line outside to see the Tom Mix movie. I kept going west. I wanted to see the hotel and see what it looked like. I turned around and headed back east and turned north on Collins Street. The old wood two story Masonic Hall was where part of the First Baptist Church is now on Collins Street. There was a fire station and north of that was the Coca Cola plant. I continued north on Collins Street until I got to Calhoun Street. I could see the ice plant. When I turned on Calhoun Street I went east until I got to Gordon Street. I turned north on Gordon Street and went to Mt. Enon Road, which was a
little nine-foot road. To the west I could see Johnny Sloan’s sawmill and the moss plant. I turned east and when I looked I thought that was the longest stretch of road I had ever seen. There were no stop signs, red lights or over passes. It went straight to Mt. Enon School. I went east to Wilder Road, I turned north on Wilder Road and on my right was Firestines Grocery Store. An elderly lady and her two daughters ran the store. I thought if I had any money I would stop and get a RC Cola and a moon pie, but that was another dream. I continued north and on my left was the Dan Kindrick home and on the right was the T.W. Carlton and Edward OutWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
law homes. Just past these homes there was a small road through a pine thicket where a little young man lived by the name of Jesse Logston. He weighed about 115 pounds. I was told that he had infantile paralysis. His left leg and arm were deformed and he walked with a homemade crutch. That did not stop him from playing the Wildwood Flowers on a cheap flat top guitar. He could play it so well that if you closed your eyes you could smell the flowers. I never could understand why the Good Lord made little Jesse like that unless it was to let the rest of us see what a man could do with what the Good Lord gave him. There is no doubt in my mind that little Jessie is playing Wildwood Flowers on a gold guitar in heaven. As I continued north the Chancey home was on the left and the Tindle Dairy was on my right. About a half mile on the left was the George H. Wilder mansion. Mr. George was sitting in a swing on the porch counting his money and wondering how he was going to keep all the bird hunters off of his land. I continued north until I got to Midway Road. I turned east on Midway Road in front of Mrs. Maggie Taylor’s house. She was one of the first and best teachers at Midway School. The old saying was she had two ways to teach students, through the head with books or the butt with a paddle. Some of the kids would joke and call her paddling Maggie. I continued east to Midway school. The old school was one large wood building shaped like a barn. It sat high off the ground. A lot of good teachers taught there. I thought the best one was Miss Grace Platt, but the prettiest and sweetest one was Miss Dorothy McGloflyn. I continued east to Mr. John Cone’s Dairy. Mrs. Cone and Dorothy were in the yard picking roses. Mr. John was showing Mr. Charley Miller, Mr. Fred and Mr. Walter Watkins one of his young Guernsey bulls while Carlos looked on. Mr. John was a small round-faced man less than six feet tall, but in my eyes he was ten feet tall. Mrs. Cone was an angel. Mr. John Cone did more for the Midway area than any other person I knew of. He gave jobs to untold amount of young and old.
Ortman family lived about a quarter of a mile down the dirt road. They had a strawberry patch with overhead irrigation. I wanted to see what it looked like, but there again was that dirt road. The Ortman house was just south of the crossroad. Rex was catching baseballs while Irvin was practicing pitching. I continued south and on the left was a little bungalow house where there were four or five kids playing in the yard. I rode a little further and got to thinking, that place looks familiar, because that was where I lived. The next house was the Dempsey house. Montine was cleaning the yard and Bonnie was swinging on the porch. I did not see Mrs. Dempsey or the boys so I thought they must be in the garden. Sure enough when I got past the orange grove where I could see them, there they were, Mrs. Dempsey and the three boys Flavis, Kenneth, and Gordon. They were gathering vegetables to take to the curb market. I kept going south until I got to the bridge that was between the Futch pasture and the Cone pasture. I rested a few minutes and continued south about three quarters of a mile where the Mr. Cone mansion was. Mr. Cone had just pulled up in his new 1939 Plymouth or Chrysler coupe. Mr. Ralph and Mrs. Ruth Futch were assisting him with whatever was in the trunk while William looked on. Carol was playing with a doll and Raymond (Slick) was playing with two puppies. I did not see Alvin right away but kept looking and finally saw him back at the barn. He was brushing an old gray horse. At his young age he already had horses in his blood. The next house to the south was the Davis home. Mr. Davis was butchering a hog with the help of the Davis boys Pete, Al (Webb) and Billy. I bought my first yearling from Mr. Davis that year for the amount of not $800, not $80, but $8.
I continued east until I got to Taylor Road and turned north. On my right was the Richard Platt home. Miss Grace Platt was admiring her new 1939 black Ford sedan. Mrs. Platt was trying to get Hugh to scrap and sand a wrought iron bedstead she had leaning up against the house. Miss Jo was playing in the yard and Mr. Richard was hooking up old Jim to a wagon.
I kept going south until I got to the little nine-foot road where Mr. Titchenal had a little store. It was at the north west corner of Taylor and Mt. Enon Road. The Mt. Enon School was just east of the store. I sure would like to have a RC Cola and a moon pie. For some reason I stuck my hand in my pocket. To my surprise there was a hand full of change in there with my Barlow pocketknife. Man I thought I was rich. There must have been a dollar and a half in change. I went in and got a cold RC Cola and a moon pie. I sat there drinking my cola knowing I couldn’t leave with the empty bottle. When I finished drinking the cola, I put it in the wood bottle crate. I headed west on the little nine-foot road eating the rest of my moon pie.
I continued north by Mr. Bill Wiggins strawberry patch where they were picking berries. On my right was the Grandpa and Grandma Wiggins house and, as usual, they were sitting on the porch rocking.
The next person I saw that I knew was Mr. Shepherd. He was sitting on his porch grooming his mustache. Ralph was cleaning the cane grinding mill. They had a cane grinding every year and invited all the neighbors.
I continued north to Knights Griffin road and turned east to Itchepackesassa canal. I pulled up on the old wood bridge to rest and leaned my bike up against the rough cut 2”x8” top rail, being careful not to skin the paint. I stood there a while thinking that I sure would like to go through the woods to the Sloan’s house where Nita, Earl, Elizabeth, Essie Dee, Judy and Billy lived. I wasn’t about to take my new bike on a dirt road, so I headed back south, and Grandpa and Grandma Wiggins were still rocking on the porch. Mr. Bill was getting ready to take his berries to the market. Mr. Bill Wiggins might have been a small man, but he had a heart as big as a Stetson hat.
On my left was Keen Road. It was a rough dirt road. The Crawford family lived about a quarter of a mile down Keen Road. I sure wanted to see the Crawford boys TH, JT, and Ward. I looked down that direction and I could see somebody up in the tree and I wondered what they were doing. I knew they did not have to pull moss. I said I have got to go and see what those boys were doing. I got off my bike and started down that dirt road pushing my bike. It was in the winter so the sand was not so hot that I could walk in it. When I got to where they were I hollered and asked, what are you boys doing? JT replied we are building a “Go Devil.” I thought they were kidding. A few years later I had the opportunity to ride that contraption. The first few rides went well then for some, reason about halfway down I turned loose of the pipe leaving me plunging to the ground. The flight wasn’t too bad, it was when I hit the ground that was rough. When I finally got my breath, I looked to see how many bones were Continued on pg. 24
When I got to the Platt house, Mrs. Platt had given up on the bedstead and Hugh had got on the wagon with Mr. Platt and they were headed toward the garden. I continued south on Taylor Road until I got to Midway Road where the road was paved to the west but was dirt road to the east. The Wesley
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Tampa Bay Fishing Report Capt. Woody Gore
From most reports the greenbacks are eluding us like they did in 2018. One day they’re on the flats the next day they are gone to the markers. Also this year we’ve not seen the small fry yet; so we can probably expect a later spawn. The only consistent location seems to be the Skyway Bridge and Skyway area fishing piers. However, the water is usually exceptionally clear with strong tides and, unless you’re throwing a heavy larger net, the bait tends to run out from under the others. Then there are the dolphins to contend with; grabbing your nets full of bait. Not only does it destroy the net, but it can pull you off balance and overboard if you’re not careful. Sometimes it makes using shrimp or artificial lures sound more appealing.
Snook (Still Closed) Snook, Redfish and Trout have remained strong through the beginning of the fishing season. Snook, however, seem to be everywhere, especially around the flats and mangrove shorelines and willing to take greenbacks or artificial lures tossed in their direction. Redfish (Still Closed) redfish, trout, and
snook usually haunt the same areas, often cruising open flats and sandy patches early then moving into the mangrove shade during the day. Artificial anglers favoring topwater action should try the MirrOlure Series III S7MR or the Top Dog 74MR, and Top Dog Jr. 84MR. Later in the day, switch to soft plastic jerk baits like the Gulp Shad rigged using a 1/16 or 1/8 oz. jighead, practically assuring success.
Spotted Sea Trout (Still Closed) Speak-
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Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)
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ing of greenbacks, they are everywhere one day and then disappear the next. But sometime shortly after the young fry start appearing, trout will usually stay on the open grass flats hanging around broken bottom potholes taking advantage of the
surplus food supply. This means trout on deep water grass flats and mangrove/ gray snapper on every rock pile, bridge and bottom structure.
Mangrove/Grey Snapper: Although Trout are closed; the snapper bite is going strong around structure or any one of the many artificial reefs throughout Tampa Bay. Small fry greenbacks or shrimp work well and fried snapper, grits and tomato gravy are excellent table fare if you’re looking for a good fish dinner. Mackerel: Mackerel fishing is on fire and Tampa Bay is loaded and July fishing should be no exception. This means some real excitement on spinning tackle using 50 to 60 pound Seaguar leader and 2/0 long shank Daiichi hooks. Just find the schools of threadfins or greenbacks, net a few, put out a chum bag, and hold onto your rod and reel. Cobia: Markers and grass flats, especially those holding bait, equal Cobia. These fish also frequent markers holding bait. They often cruise the miles of open grass flats following rays and manatees always on the lookout for a quick snack. When fishing open water flats, it’s always a good idea to have a rod and reel rigged for something larger; you never know when one might slide by. Tarpon: Tarpon fishing should continue
this month. Many begin moving offshore to spawn. Threadfin Herring, crabs, larger WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
greenbacks are all over Tampa Bay and work very well for tarpon. The Skyway Bridge, Anna Maria, St. Pete Beaches, and Egmont Key should be holding plenty of fish in the coming months.
“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 firstclass 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
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Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief. Babaco is gorgeous torpedo shaped fruit. It’s also named as champagne fruit since it has a fizzy flesh. Sapodilla is a uniquely tasting fruit. It had a soft brown flesh with flavor like a sweet mix of brown sugar and root beer. Green peppers are a big (healthy) zero. The vegetable contains zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero sodium. It also contains zero capsaicin, which is why the green pepper does not have the same spicy bite as a jalapeno or Serrano pepper. The durian, a fruit widely available in Asia, has legions of fans despite being awfully stinky—it smells of rotting meat. The stench is so bad that the fruit has been banned on Singapore’s public train systems. The people of Troy, in modern-day Turkey, were the first to note an appreciation of the raspberry fruit. Cauliflower means “cabbage flower” and is part of the broccoli family. This crunchy, tasty vegetable is available in more than just plain white. You can find cauliflower that is green, orange and even purple! In moderation, ginger is one of the best foods for acid reflux. It has been used throughout history as an anti-inflammatory and as a treatment for gastrointestinal conditions. Ginger root can easily be peeled, sliced, diced, or shaved using a grater. You can use it while cooking or add it to smoothies.
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Weddings 289704-1
Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the June 2015 issue
One bride must hold the record for the most distressful wedding day ever! Princess Maria del Pozzo Della Cisterno’s wedding was marked by not one unforgettable event but six of them. The day she married the Duke D’Aosta (the son of the King of Italy) in 1867 her wardrobe mistress hung herself and the palace gatekeeper cut his throat. Further events to mar the day were the death of the colonel, who was leading the wedding procession and collapsed from sunstroke, and the stationmaster who was crushed to death underneath the honeymoon train’s wheels. If that was not enough the best man shot himself and the King’s aide fell from his horse and was killed instantly. Some people pep up the wedding ceremony with their own version of the vows, much like this couple from St. Petersburg. Groom: I promise to love you as much as the Tampa Bay Rays. From this day forward, I will listen to all of your complaints about the mall if you say them during the off-season and promise to retire my baseball cap and face paint for public outings. I will love you in sickness and in health, from this day forward, until death parts us. Bride: I promise to love you as much as I love my credit card and not hold your poor fashion sense against you. I will only show you my new clothes during commercial breaks and promise to keep you in the latest Rays fashions. From this day forward, I will make sure your lucky Rays shirt is washed for every game day and will always have plenty of potato chips on hand. I will love you for richer or poorer, as long as our credit limit stays high. Bill and Veronica, a young couple, got married and went on their honeymoon. When they returned, Veronica immediately called her mother, and her mother obviously asked, “How was the honeymoon?” “Oh Mom,” she replied, “The honeymoon was wonderful and so romantic!” Then she started crying. “But Ma, as soon as we returned home Bill started using the most ghastly language... saying things I’ve never heard before! I mean, all these awful 4-letter words. You have to come get me and take me home now…Please mother come and get me!” “Calm down, Veronica’” her mother said, “tell me, what could be so awful? What 4-letter words?” Still crying, Veronica whispered, “Oh, mother…words like dust, wash, cook and iron.”
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After a few years of marriage for some reason couples begin to fuss and fight with one another. Here are a few of those situations.
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I asked my wife, “Where do you want to go for our wedding anniversary?” It warmed my heart to see her face melt in sweet appreciation. “Somewhere I haven’t been in a long time,” she said. So I suggested, “How about the kitchen?” And that’s how the fight started. My wife was hinting about what she wanted for our upcoming anniversary. She said, “I want something shiny that goes from 0 to 140 in about 7 seconds.” I bought her a scale. And that’s how the fight started.I took my wife to a restaurant. The waiter for some reason took my order first. I‘ll have the T-Bone steak, medium rare, please.” He said, “Aren’t you worried about mad cow?” “Nah” I said, “She can order for herself.” And that’s how the fight started. A woman was looking in the bedroom mirror. She was not happy with what she saw, and said to her husband, “I feel horrible. I look old, fat and ugly. I really need you to pay me a compliment.” The husband replies, “Your eyesight is absolutely perfect.” And that’s how the fight started. My wife sat down on the couch next to me as I was flipping channels. She asked, “What’s on TV?” I replied, “Dust.” And that’s how the fight started. What do you make of this one? Wide-eyed residents looked on as a married mother-of-five shared a piece of cake, a toast and even a kiss with her young 9 year-old groom, Sanele. Last year the boy, from nearby Tshwane, Africa tied the knot with bride Helen after claiming he had been told by his dead ancestors to wed. Shockingly his family took the message from the heavens seriously and hurriedly made arrangements for the big day. Despite stunned villagers branding the act ‘sickening’ the 9-year old boy’s family defended the union saying it was just a ritual. It’s not unusual to hear stories of married couples that met online. But it is unusual when that couple that meets online and marries also has the same name. That’s the case of a guy from Texas named Kelly Hildebrandt and a girl from Florida named Kelly Hildebrandt. Kelly Hildebrandt met Kelly Hildebrandt when Kelly, the girl, looked up her own name on Facebook. “I was like, ‘I wonder if there’s any other Kelly Hildebrandts on Facebook’,” she explained. “So, I searched my own name and he’s the only one that came up. In the photo he didn’t have his shirt on, and I’m like, ‘oh, he’s cute!’” And the Kelly in Texas was also intrigued. “She started off, ‘Hey, I see we have the same name, and I thought it was cool, so I wanted to say hi, I guess’. Lots of laughs,” he said. Eight months after that innocent Facebook message, Kelly proposed to Kelly. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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.
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.
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Continued from pg. 17 sticking out. JT or TH one hollered and said you are all right you landed on your head? If I continued south to State Road 92 it would be a short cut to Plant City. There again I remembered my mom told me not to ever get on 92 because some of the fools drive 50 or 60 miles per hour.
FARM BUREAU MEMBER BENEFITS SOME CURRENT OFFERS
When I got back to the little nine-foot road I turned west about three quarter of a mile and was at Firestine store. I thought now that I was rich; I would stop and have another RC Cola. Instead I decided on a Coca Cola. When I looked at the bottom of the bottle, I could see it was bottled in Plant City, Florida. I was so surprised it woke me up. These people that I had the opportunity to know are a small percent of the great men and women that built the north east section of Hillsborough County. My favorite two men were Mr. Richard Platt and Mr. Jack Hooker. I was plowing old Jim in the corn field one day while Mr. Platt was looking on. When I got to the end of the row where Mr. Platt was he said to me, remember this when you plow a row, plow it as straight as you can. At the end of the day look back and see what you have accomplished. A lot of days I have looked at my wife at the end of a hard day’s work and said Mr. Richard Platt would be proud of me today. Mr. Jack Hooker said, “young man you need to buy you some land, they are not making it anymore.” Thank God I took their advice and I give them credit for what little I have accomplished in my 93 years. They were above super, super good men. This is a note to the teenagers these days. Money was hard to come by. You could work hard all-day cleaning yards and if you were lucky you would receive 50 cents. The good news was that you could take 25 cents of that money Saturday morning to the Capital Theater and see the Saturday morning matinee: Tom Mix, Johnny Mack Brown or Hopalong Cassidy. The ticket was nine cents and a big bag of popcorn, and a Coca cola were five cents each. When the movie was over you could stop at the Moody Drug Store at the corner of Collins Street and Reynolds Street and buy a double dip of ice cream for five cents. You could go home with a penny in your pocket or buy a lollypop that you could suck on all the way home. If you were fortunate enough to have a bicycle, or if you were walking barefoot, it would not last that long. The author of this article has a BS Degree from Mt. Enon School and a master’s degree from Midway School in marble shooting. If by chance anyone out there has lived as long as I have and had the opportunity of knowing any of these wonderful people, give me a ring and I will meet you at the Wooden Spoon Café and we will discuss the old times over a bowl of milk and cornbread.
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George J. Elder 813-737-2313
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By Jim Frankowiak While being a Florida Farm Bureau member supports agriculture through various advocacy initiatives, it also offers a range of benefits to members such as: Help preparing for the 2020 hurricane season - Are you and your home ready? Grainger has everything you need to prepare your family and your home, plus major savings on thousands of items. Visit http://bit.ly/FFBGrainger to learn more. Plan now. Travel later. Choose from hundreds of destinations for your fall vacation with Tripbeat. Florida Farm Bureau members have access to weekly vacation rentals starting at just $399. Visit http://bit.ly/FFBTripbeat to learn more. Florida Farm Bureau membership means more when you’re saving more. Save up to $2,700 with your complimentary upgrade to John Deere Rewards Platinum 2 status. Visit http:// bit.ly/FFBJohnDeere to learn how. Drive off in style and luxury in a new Lincoln, and with more in your pocket. Farm Bureau members receive $750 Bonus Cash toward the purchase or lease of new Lincoln vehicles. Visit http://bit.ly/FFBLincoln for full details and eligibility. Go more when you save more at the pump. Swipe your Florida Farm Bureau membership card at Marathon gas stations and save 3 ¢ per gallon, up to $31 per year. Find a participating location near you: http://bit.ly/FFBCentsOff
For more information about Hillsborough County Farm Bureau, visit: www.hcfarmbureau.org or call our office in Plant City at 813/685-9121.
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Josh Griffin and Dustin Grooms Among Five New FFVA Board Members from Emerging Leader Development Program
The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association (FFVA) has added five new members to its board of directors and all are alumni of the FFVA Emerging Leader Development Program. Two of the five are from Plant City. They are Josh Griffin, Food Safety Manager with Grimes Produce Company and Dustin Grooms, Farm Manager, Fancy Farms, Inc. Dustin Grooms-Fancy Farms Additional new board members include Elizabeth Malek, Crop Protection Assistant Manager with Lipman Family Farm, Naples; Justin Pettit, Production Manager, Blue Hammock Farms LLC, Lake Placid and Derek Orsenigo, Production Manager with Grower’s Management, Belle Glade. The FFVA is the state’s leading, full-service specialty crop organization, serving Florida’s grower-shipper community since 1943. FFVA represents a broad range of crops, including vegetables, citrus, tropical fruit, berries, sod, sugar cane, tree crops and more. The association’s mission “is to enhance the business and competitive environment for producing and marketing Florida fruits, vegetables and other crops.” Josh Griffin The Emerging Leader program, launched in 2011, develops leaders who are prepared with a depth of knowledge of the many issues facing agriculture; provides young professionals with the education and tools to deal with those issues and engages young leaders in FFVA and other industry organizations. The FFVA is based in Maitland. More information is available at www.ffva.com
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Chad Chronister
STOLEN CALF
A stolen calf that was sold off and traded was the subject of a recent joint investigation between the Hillsborough County and Polk County Sheriffs’ Offices. In April, the calf was stolen from out of Polk County’s jurisdiction. The suspects, Shawn Decker, 34, and Priscilla Pippin, 31, then sold the calf to another man on Facebook for $150.00. That man had no idea the calf had been stolen. Decker and Pippin transported the calf to the buyer in Hillsborough County. The buyer then put up a Facebook ad himself in another attempt to resell the calf. He later traded the calf to a couple who gave him a Great Pyrenees puppy. After making the trade, the original buyer saw a Facebook post about a missing calf -- the same one he had just traded
away. He called the Polk County Sheriff’s Office to notify them of the incident. Upon conclusion of the investigation, Decker and Pippin were arrested on May 15 for Grand Theft of Commercial Livestock and Trespassing by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. They were arrested again for Dealing in Stolen Property within Hillsborough County relating to the same incident, based on felony warrants initiated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Crimes Unit. Good “moos” (news): Thanks to the teamwork between both the Hillsborough County and Polk County Sheriffs’ Offices, the calf was safely returned home to its rightful owner!
Good “moos” (news): Thanks to the teamwork between both the Hillsborough County and Polk County Sheriffs’ Offices, the calf was safely returned home to its rightful owner! INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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USDA OFFERS DIRECT ASSISTANCE TO PRODUCERS IMPACTED BY COVID-19 By Jim Frankowiak
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to deliver relief to American farmers and ranchers impacted by COVID-19. As part of a $19 billion Coronavirus Farm Assistance Program (CFAP), the USDA will provide direct support based on losses for agricultural producers where prices and market supply chains have been impacted. Also, the USDA will assist eligible producers facing additional adjustment and market costs. Additionally, the USDA’s Farmers to Families Food Box program is partnering with regional and local distributors, whose workforces have been significantly impacted by the closure of many restaurants, hotels and other food service entities to purchase $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy and meat and deliver boxes to Americans in need. The USDA, through its Farm Service Agency (FSA), is accepting applications from agricultural producers who have suffered losses. CFAP provides financial assistance to producers of agricultural commodities who have suffered a five-percent or greater price decline due to COVID-19 and face additional significant market costs as a result of lower demand, surplus production and disruptions to shipping patterns and the orderly marketing of commodities. Livestock eligible for CFAP payments include cattle, lambs, yearlings and hogs. The total payment will be calculated using the sum of the producer’s number of livestock sold between January 15 and April 15 this year, multiplied by the payment rates per head and the highest inventory number of livestock between April 16 and May 14, 2020, multiplied by the payment rate per head.
There is a payment limitation of $250,000 per person or entity for all commodities combined. Applicants who are corporations, limited liability companies or limited partnerships may qualify for additional payment limits where members actively provide personal labor or personal management for the farming operation. Producers will also have to certify they meet the Adjusted Gross Income limitation of $900,000 unless at least 75 percent or more of their income is derived from farming, ranching or forestry-related activities. Producers must also be in compliance with Highly Erodible Land and Wetland Conservation provisions. Application forms can be found at farmers.gov/cfap. Producers of all eligible commodities are to apply through their local FSA office. Applications will be accepted through August 28, 2020. To ensure the availability of funding throughout the application period, producers will receive 80 percent of their maximum total payment upon approval of their application. The balance, not to exceed the payment limit, will be paid at a later date as funds remain available. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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For eligible specialty crops, the total payment will be based on the volume of production sold between January 15 and April 15, 2020; the volume of production shipped, but unpaid; and the number of acres for which harvested production did not leave the farm or mature product destroyed or not harvested during that same time period and which have not and will not be sold. Specialty crops include, but are not limited to, almonds, beans, broccoli, sweet corn, lemons, iceberg lettuce, spinach, squash, strawberries and tomatoes. A full list of eligible crops is available at farmers.gov/cfap. Additional crops may be deemed eligible at a later date.
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WATCH THE WEATHER, WAIT TO WATER By Jim Frankowiak
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) is encouraging residents who irrigate their lawns to take advantage of the upcoming summer rainy season and “watch the weather, wait to water.” During the summer months of June, July, August and September, yards need no more than ½ to ¾ inch of water every two to three days. If your lawn has received enough water from rainfall, turn off the irrigation system and turn it back on when needed. The simplest way to determine if your yard needs water is to look for these visual clues: Grass blades are folded in half lengthwise on at least one-third of your yard. Grass blades appear blue-gray.
Grass blades do not spring back, leaving footprints on the lawn for several minutes after walking on it. Follow these tips when you “watch the weather, wait to water”: If your yard is showing signs that it needs water, check your local forecast to see if rain is on the way. Use a rain gauge to determine how much rain your yard has received. If you have a rain sensor, make sure that it is working properly. Take full advantage of the rain. Make sure gutter downspouts are directed into landscaped areas or lawn. Install a rain barrel to capture excess rainwater.
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For additional information, visit WaterMatters.org/WatchTheWeather.
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NEWS BRIEFS
Compiled by Jim Frankowiak
USDA Grants Available for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production; Deadline July 6
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has $3 million in competitive grants available to support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production projects. USDA is accepting applications at grants.gov until midnight July 6. Among eligible groups are schools serving grades K-12. Additional information is available by contacting USDA District Conservationist Diana Avellanet via email: Diana.avellanet@usda.gov. Her office telephone is 813/752-1474, Extension 4885. Opportunities for Young Farmers and Ranchers Young Farmers and Ranchers are invited to enter three upcoming competitive events designed to help them sharpen their discussion skills and enhance public awareness of their agricultural operations and community service activities. The events include the Discussion Meet, Achievement in Ag and Excellence in Ag. Applications are also open for positions in the 2020-2022 Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Group. The group experience develops participants for future leadership positions, and it also provides them to be involved in various Farm Bureau advocacy events at the local, state and national levels. More information on both opportunities is available at: FloridaFarmBureau.org. USDA has $5 million Available in Wetland Mitigation Banking Program Funds The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced availability of up to $5 million for wetland mitigation banks through the Wetland Mitigation Banking Program. This funding is available to help conservation partners develop or establish mitigation banks to help agricultural producers maintain eligibility for USDA programs. Applications for this competitive grants program must be submitted by July 6 through grants.gov. More information is available at: www.nrcs.usda.gov Producers Encouraged to Sign Up for USDA Purchasing Programs Florida farmers and ranchers are being encouraged to sign up for the Section 32 purchasing program to sell perishable commodities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The USDA is purchasing surplus foods from agricultural producers for distribution to communities nationwide. In addition to Section 32 purchases, the USDA will purchase food in support of American agriculture and families on an ongoing basis in response to disruptions in the food supply chains. Additional information on these purchases and distribution programs is available on the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service website: https://www.ams.usda.gov/ and the Food and Nutrition Service website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/
The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced allocation of $300 million in federal assistance for fisheries provided by he CARES Act stimulus package. These funds will be available for coastal and marine fishery participants negatively affected by COVID-19. Florida will receive $23.6 million of this funding to aid the state’s commercial fishing and aquaculture industries. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries will use this allocation to disburse funds that address direct or indirect fishery-related losses related to COVID-19. Affected businesses should work with their state marinefishery management agencies to understand the process for applying for these funds. USDA Reminds Florida Producers to Complete Crop Acreage Reports The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is reminding producers in Florida of the need to file timely crop acreage reports. FSA staff can provide assistance by phone, email and through virtual meetings via Microsoft Teams. Acreage reporting dates vary by crop and county. Contact the FSA office in Plant City at 201 South Collins Street, Suite 201. Telephone: 813/752-1474, Ext. 2 or email Marcinda.Kester@fl.usda.gov. Pesticide License Testing Reactivated Pesticide license testing has been reactivated at select UF/ IFAS Extension offices. If your county Extension office is not yet open for testing, you may be required to travel to a county that is offering these services. Visit the UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office’s website where the status of testing sites is listed. The site is: https://pested.ifas.ufl.edu/update-ontesting/. Testing is by appointment only. There are also requirements for safety that will be explained when appointments are made. USDA OFFERS DIRECT ASSISTANCE TO SPECALTY CROPS GROWERS IMPACTED BY COVID-19 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), as part of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Farm Assistance Program, is providing up to $2.1 billion in direct payments to specialty crops producers. These payments will be based on losses where prices and market supply chains have been impacted and will help producers facing additional adjustment and marketing costs resulting from lost demand and short-term oversupply for the 2020 marketing year as a result of COVID-19. Producers of all eligible commodities may apply for assistance through their local USDA Farm Service Agency Service Center. Producers can locate their service center and find application forms, as well as additional information at: farmers.gov/cfap.
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Florida to Receive $23 Million in Aquaculture and Fisheries Assistance via CARES Act
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FLorida
Everglades Tomatoes
By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
Did you know that you can enjoy fresh, sweet tomatoes in Florida during the hot summer months? The Everglades tomato is a type of heirloom tomato that is very well adapted to Florida’s climate. It is tolerant to drought, heat, and pests. Juicy and delicious, fresh Florida Everglades tomatoes are smaller than the typical cherry tomato, with a thin skin, and plenty of flavor. They are also called currant tomatoes or wild tomatoes and produces fruit year-round, even in the hot summers. Unlike other types of tomatoes, the Everglades tomato does not require cool nighttime temperatures to set fruit. It can be grown throughout the state, and plants can be started from seeds, fallen fruit, or cuttings. According to the Florida Tomato Committee, Florida tomatoes account for 95% of all U.S. grown tomatoes eaten by Americans from October to June and for 45% eaten year-round. Florida ranks first nationally in the value of fresh tomatoes produced in the U.S, and this crop comprises nearly one-third of the total farm crop value of vegetables in the state. Tomatoes are an extremely popular vegetable in the U.S. The USDA reports that Americans consume approximately 20 pounds of tomatoes per person every year. With over a thousand different varieties, including beefsteak, cherry, grape, ugly ripe, plum, and heirloom, tomatoes can be red, yellow, orange, green, purple, brown, or even striped in color. Bite into one, and you will experience a juicy subtle sweetness that is balanced by a slightly bitter taste. The acidic and bitter qualities in tomatoes are tempered by cooking, which brings out their natural rich sweetness. Of these different types of tomatoes, Everglades tomatoes tend to be very sweet and flavorful. An extremely versatile vegetable, tomatoes can be eaten in any imaginable way---straight off the vine, tossed in a salad, pureed in pasta sauce, ketchup, barbeque sauce, chutney, soup, and jam. They are delicious eaten raw, cooked, dried, fried, roasted, baked, or stewed. Nutritional Profile Tomatoes are an excellent nutritional source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K. It is a very good source of molybdenum, potassium, manganese, dietary fiber, chromium, and vitamin B1, and a good source of vitamin B6, folate, copper, niacin, vitamin B2, magnesium, iron, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, vitamin E and protein. Naturally fat and cholesterol free, tomatoes pack a huge nutritional punch for very few calories. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one cup of chopped raw tomato (180 g) contains 32 calories, 1.58 g of protein, 0.36 g of fat, 7.06 g of carbohydrate, and 2.2 g of fiber. It also provides 30% of the Daily Recommended Value (% DV) for Vitamin A, 38% for Vitamin C, 18% for Vitamin K, 12% for potassium, and 7.9% for dietary fiber.
Lycopene
or ketchup, contain very high levels of the antioxidant lycopene. This carotenoid helps protect cells from oxygen damage, thus protecting against certain cancers. Lycopene levels are up to three times higher in organic tomatoes and tomato products than conventional. Research studies have shown that higher consumption of lycopene is associated with a lower incidence of several types of cancer, including colorectal, pancreatic, and prostate. Researchers believe that the health benefits of tomatoes come not only from lycopene, but from a variety of protective phytonutrients. They concluded that eating whole tomatoes was more beneficial than taking lycopene supplements.
Antioxidants Tomatoes are an excellent source of the antioxidant vitamins A and C, which travel through the body neutralizing dangerous free radicals that could otherwise damage cells and increase inflammation. A higher intake of tomatoes and other foods high in these nutrients have been shown to reduce the risk of complications from atherosclerosis, diabetes, asthma, and colon cancer. How to Select and Store Choose tomatoes that have a smooth skin with no wrinkles, cracks, or soft spots. Look for ones with a deep, vibrant color, which indicates a greater amount of lycopene. Ripe tomatoes will yield to slight pressure and will have a noticeably sweet fragrance. Store tomatoes at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Avoid refrigeration until they are cut, since tomatoes are sensitive to cold. To hasten the ripening process, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple and the ethylene gas emitted by the fruits emit will increase the tomato’s maturation. Whole tomatoes, chopped tomatoes and tomato sauce freeze well for future use in cooked dishes.
How to Enjoy • Puree to make gazpacho or tomato soup • Combine with basil, garlic, onions and cook into tomato sauce for pasta or pizza • Chop raw tomatoes and add to omelets, salads, stir fries and sandwiches • Make homemade ketchup, salsa, or barbeque sauce • Drizzle with olive oil, basil, and salt • Roast in oven in low heat Fresh Everglades tomatoes add great flavor, color and outstanding nutrition to any dish. Enjoy fresh and fabulous Florida tomatoes throughout the summer!
Selected References http://www.floridagardener.com/misc/floridamango.htm http://www.floridafoodandfarm.com http://www.whfoods.com
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By Jack Payne You are about to go through an exciting decade of growing. Your agricultural scientists have spent the past decade getting you ready for it. The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is better than it was in 2010 when I arrived to lead it. This is especially true in Hillsborough County. That means that whether you grow strawberries in Plant City, trees in Tampa, or blue tangs in Gibsonton, you know a lot more about it than you did a decade ago. If you don’t, you need to check in with your local ag scientists. At the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Wimauma, Director Jack Rechcigl has spent the past decade building. Since 2010, he’s expanded the center with: • A four-bay strawberry greenhouse. • Strawberry tunnel houses. • Two new graduate student residences. • Modernized field irrigation systems. • A 12,000-square-foot equipment storage building. • A building for precision ag, a workshop for developing mechanical harvesting equipment and sprayers with the ability to target only weeds and not the crop. When he wasn’t building, he was hiring. The All-Star faculty he’s brought to Hillsborough in the past decade include Debra Barry, Nathan Boyd, John Diaz, Zhengfei Guan, Sam Hutton, Sriyanka Lahiri, Kati Lawson, Seonghee Lee, Tong Geon Lee, Mary Lusk, and Luis Peña-Lévano. And when area growers advocated for a blueberry Extension coordinator, we hired one. Doug Phillips works wherever blueberries grow, but he’s based at GCREC in the heart of berry country. This growth was fueled by innovation. UF/IFAS and its direct support organization Florida Foundation Seed Producers released 271 cultivars for release statewide over the past 10 years, many of them developed at GCREC. Because FFSP has one of the most aggressive reinvestment policies in the nation, a great deal of the revenue from the licensing of these new plants goes right back into the center, which in turn fuels more innovation. Success begets success. Plant licensing royalties, combined with support from growers like Tony DiMare and Kenneth Parker, have helped GCREC to grow as fast as Hillsborough itself. In addition to disease, trade issues, and now COVID that has threatened all of Florida agriculture, Hillsborough growers face urban encroachment in a county that now has a population bigger than that of 11 states. Stephen Gran leads the UF/IFAS Hillsborough County Extension office in navigating how to make cities and farms harmonious neighbors. Part of that involves making the city a place for things to grow. Extension urban forester Rob Northrop has teamed with the city of Tampa and others in one of the nation’s most impressive efforts to map an entire major city’s trees. It helps Tampa get the most bough for the buck, cooling, beautifying, preventing erosion, cleaning the air and more.
It also involves help for small farms. Gran brought on Francisco Rivera as a small farms and alternative enterprises Extension agent to join his team of production agriculture agents. Extension’s Florida Friendly Landscaping and Water Wise efforts have shored up the local water supply by saving 116 million gallons of water in the past 10 years. Craig Watson has been such a leading figure in the nation’s leading ornamental fish industry that he was inducted into the Florida Tropical Fish Farms Association’s Hall of Fame. As director of the UF/IFAS Tropical Aquaculture Lab in Ruskin, he oversees a veterinarian and disease diagnostic lab, research on invasive species, and innovations in captive breeding for species like the blue tang. By conservative estimates, the 6.5-acre fish research farm saves Florida fish farmers – most of whom are concentrated in the Tampa area -- millions of dollars annually by solving local aquaculture problems. The Lab makes them millions more by developing new species and methods for production. I visited the Lab early in my tenure and immediately supported its expansion. We were fortunate to bring on three new scientists – Eric Cassiano, Matt DiMaggio, and Josh Patterson. Eric and Matt contributed to the effort that made the Lab the first place in the world to grow blue tangs in captivity, while Josh has expanded our reef restoration science. Things will look different a decade from now. I think they’ll be even better. UF/IFAS is getting a new leader in July, Scott Angle, who has deep experience in government, the non-profit sector, and the land-grant system. He’ll help strike the balance between improving your old favorites and looking for new opportunities. So while we’re investigating the possibility of hops and hemp as cash crops south of Tampa, we’ll also continue pursuing a machine harvestable tomato, early market strawberries, and even bettertasting blueberries. Keep in touch with your research center, Extension office, and aquaculture lab. Jack Rechcigl has grown the annual Ag Expo into one of the state’s premier agricultural knowledge-sharing events. Field days give you the chance to meet a scientist and see the results of her work in the soil. Your ag scientists are hard at work not just on publishing academic papers but solving real problems. Your problems. How they share it may look a little different in a decade – just look at how much has had to migrate to the Internet in the past three months – but we’ll still be your go-to for the science of solutions.
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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.
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Little But Loud With Flavor By Libby Hopkins
Do you notice nowadays everything is getting smaller and smaller? Take for instance, headphones. They used to be so big and now they have shrunk down to tiny ear pods. Even our vegetables have gotten smaller to the point that they are micro, but don’t let the micro part fool you. They may be little but they are big with flavor. Austin Joiner is the owner of Austin’s Microgreens in Valrico. He is a local Veteran and microgreen grower with a passion for horticulture. “I learned my trade from master gardeners, books and research of my own,” Joiner said. “I would say my technique and study of soil biology makes my produce stand out and taste better than most store bought. I joined the Army as a Combat Engineer at the age of 20 and completed my contract eight years later. I truly have a passion for horticulture and feel so blessed to be able to do something I love so much.”
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So what exactly are microgreens you ask? Well, they are tiny vegetables that taste delicious. Mind you, that is my expert opinion, but according to the website, Healthline (www. healthline.com) “Microgreens are young vegetable greens that fall somewhere between sprouts and baby leaf vegetables. They have an intense aromatic flavor and concentrated nutrient content and come in a variety of colors and textures.” The website also explains that microgreens are broken down
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into six different categories or families. There is the Brassicaceae family, which are cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, watercress, radishes and arugula. The Asteraceae family includes lettuce, endive, chicory and radicchio. The Apiaceae family consists of dill, carrots, fennel and celery. The Amaryllidaceae family includes garlic, onions and leeks. The Amaranthaceae family is made up of quinoa, Swiss chard, beets and spinach. Last but not least, the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes melons, cucumbers and squash. Side note too, cereals such as rice, oats, wheat, corn and barley, as well as legumes like chickpeas, beans and lentils, are also sometimes grown into microgreens. Joiner started his business because he loves organic food. “My company was started because I have such a passion to make organic food,” Joiner said. “Austin’s Mocrogreens started in a one bedroom apartment in Carrollwood. I was so motivated to get my business up and running, that I funded it by working two armed security positions and marketed mainly by word of mouth.” If you ask Joiner what makes his microgreens different from other microgreens on the market, he’ll tell you it’s how he grows them. “My microgreens stand out and are different for a few very important reasons,” Joiner said. “First, I make sure to have a sterile environment and grow indoors only. I never WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
allow my temperatures to go above 76 degrees, making less chance for mold to populate and a sweeter more rich taste. I use a special soilless blend amended with certain trace minerals for the longer growing micros so they uptake it and you have an extremely nutritious vegetable. The last little secret is I almost only harvest them fresh to order. My produce stands out because I use a special soil blend that I make myself that helps the plants grow full of nutrients and taste so good.” There are also many health benefits to eating microgreens. They are rich in nutrients. They often contain larger amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants than their more mature counterparts. Microgreens also deliver a concentrated dose of nutrients and beneficial plant compounds. As a result, they may reduce the risk of certain diseases, like heart disease, Alzheimer, diabetes and some forms of cancer. Joiner is also a huge supporter of keeping things local. “Having a local and small businesses is so important because it’s how we keep our community going not only economically but to know you’re supporting your neighbor, friend or local farmer should put a smile on your face, I know It does for me,” Joiner said. “I really feel as if it brings us together as a community because it is a group of people who can work together for a common goal and I think that helps us thrive.” Joiner has some very high hopes for his business. “I want to be able to help change lives with my methods and approaches in agriculture,” Joiner said. “I eventually want to expand my business. To me, it’s the best feeling to see a person that thoroughly enjoys my produce or microgreens and then eventually incorporate it into their every day lives. I want to help my community eat healthy organic produce and continue to help supply their needs. I love seeing my product end up on your dinner plate! Overall, I enjoy hearing how fresh and great my hard work taste.
If you would like to learn more about Austin’s Microgreens or if you would like to join his CSA, you can visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/austinsmicrogreens, contact him by phone at 813-966-3699 or you can send him and email at austinsmicrogreens@gmail.com. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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AN EMERGENCY IS STILL AN EMERGENCY. EVEN DURING THIS EMERGENCY.
Don’t hesitate when it comes to getting emergency treatment. Even during a pandemic, you still need to be treated immediately if you have an emergency. Debating whether or not to risk going to an emergency room during a heart attack, stroke or other health emergency—waiting even a few extra minutes—could be harmful. That’s why
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20-1127552-0520
in all BayCare hospital emergency rooms, patients who have symptoms of COVID-19 are screened and treated in a separate area. This helps keep emergency room patients and our team members safe. So if it’s an emergency, don’t wait. For more information: BayCareEmergencyCare.org
NATIONAL SWINE STUDY SET FOR JUNE-AUGUST;
SELECTED FLORIDA PRODUCERS ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE
By Jim Frankowiak The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services, National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) and National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) are conducting a national study of the U.S. swine industry during June through August. This study, which has been conducted by the USDA for more than 30 years, will include approximately 5,000 operations from 38 swine producing states, including Florida, with swine operations that have less than 1,000 pigs randomly selected. If contacted, producers are encouraged to participate as resulting estimates are useful in trade negotiations and apply to all operations with less than 1,000 hogs in the U.S. National estimates on health, housing, movement and marketing in this sector, particularly on operations with less than 100 hogs, are rarely gathered. Movement and health estimates are essential for state and federal disease preparedness, according to the USDA.
This study is to include them to assess their husbandry practices and information needs. • Florida has a feral swine population. Feral swine, the damage they do and their diseases transmission risk, are a focus of this study. Study implementers hope to give updated estimates of where feral swine are in the state and whether they are close to swine rearing areas. • The study will attempt to quantify overall movement of swine, both for sale and showing, for disease planning. • Niche marketing appears to be growing in selected areas of the U.S., but little data is available on where or how many operations produce pigs for these markets. The most recent data gathered on this niche market was collected in 2008.
Selection letters, a questionnaire with instructions and an African Swine Fever information sheet have been mailed to selected producers. Completed forms can be mailed back in The study has particular applicability to Florida because: the self-addressed, stamped envelopes or completed online • The University of Florida Extension service notes hog provia the NASS secure website. NASS will begin follow-up teleduction is increasing among smaller farms owners, hobby phone calls in July to determine the best time to complete farmers and show pig enthusiasts located through the state. the survey by phone. More information is available on the NAHMS web site:
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www.aphis.usda.gov/nahms
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With every generation,
we get better at protecting our environment. Reclamation ecologists like Ashlee work to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, public parks and more—so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.
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CHRIS ‘BEAR’ MCCULLOUGH
NEW HILLSOROUGH COUNTY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT By Jim Frankowiak
The care and feeding of cattle has been part of Chris “Bear” McCullough’s life since the very beginning. The son of the late Alton “Buddy” McCullough and Vivian, Bear – a nickname given to him by his dad at a very young age – is the third of four McCullough children: Terry, Buddy and Julianne. All of the McCullough siblings were involved in the family’s cattle operation in Balm along with a landscape sod business, hardware and feed store and cutting horse operation as they grew up. “Bear” is the recently-elected president of the Hillsborough County Cattlemen’s Association (HCCA), following a very successful four-year term by Jason Conrad. Bear’s father also held the post of president and served on the HCCA Board of Directors. Other HCCA officers include Vice President Erik Moretuzzo, Treasurer Wesley Joyner and State Director Brian Shoop. Additional board members include Seth Poppel, Brody Hagin, Jason Conrad, Matt Hudson, David LaGrone, Jason Hillman, Pat Thomas, John Allen and Taylor Clark.
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The HCCA is a member association committed to the promotion of the beef industry, individual property rights and family values in Hillsborough County. HCCA currently has 173 members making it the third largest county association in Florida,
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following Polk and Okeechobee counties. McCullough is quick to note that “the board does all of the work” of the HCCA. Bear and his wife Ashley, a dental hygienist at Brandon Dental Care, have two children: daughter Morgan, 8; and five-yearold son Barrett. In addition to working his family’s commercial cow yearling operation, Chris is a Safety Associate at the Wingate Creek facility of Mosaic Company. A graduate of Durant High School, McCullough is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Safety, Health and Environment at Columbia Southern University. “I hope to continue the work begun by Jason and the board,” said McCullough. “They worked hard to build the association into what it is today.” In addition to growing the association membership, Bear and his board will continue support of kids interested in cattle through FFA and 4-H. The HCCA provides both monetary and equipment support to youth cattle involvement. “We also want to help our members make their operations more profitable, and provide other assistance,” he said. That included working closely recently with the Hillsborough County Sheriff and some illegal activities that were jeopardizing member cattle operations. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
jobs as well as beef. The cattle industry supports a vast network of associated businesses. These allies include, but are not limited to, feed companies, heavy machinery corporations and fertilizer manufacturers. This integrated web of economic organizations helps create jobs and business opportunities in Florida. Additionally, Florida’s cattlemen are strong supporters of Florida’s youth and culture. From county fair displays to scholarship contests, Florida’s cattlemen have work diligently to give back to the communities they serve. Advocacy at the local, state and federal levels is an important part of association initiatives. “We have seen market volatility due to COVID-19,” he said. “But there are other matters, as well, such as federal aid to meat packing plants that we view as being very essential.” Longer term, urban sprawl is something that also has the attention and concern of the association and its members, as well as keeping the greenbelt property tax designation for cattle operations. International trade is also an agenda item for the association. “There are some misconceptions that we must address,” said McCullough, citing the expiration of Country of Original Labeling or COOL issue as one. “Our members and the public have to understand that trade works both ways and we have to support international trade accordingly. The majority of cattle operations in the county provide added income to families with the husband and spouse typically involved in other business activities as their primary source of income. And there have been shifts over the years. In the mid 60s the McCullough family had a substantial commercial herd at its Balm operation that maxed out at about 1,200 head. In the 90s “we had a registered Angus herd,” said Bear. “2003 was a turning point for us. My dad died that year and we downsized our operation.”
“Beef imports are necessary,” he said. “Imports and exports reflect consumer likes and dislikes.” That is to say, some beef products are disliked by consumers in this country, but liked by those living in other countries and vice versa. “There simply is not sufficient beef production in this country to meet consumer demand and that will only get worse as time passes. With regard to COOL, we need a version that will not hurt our country,” said McCullough.
COVID-19 has had an impact on the HCCA. “Our annual clay shoot, which is our major fund-raising event each year, was set for May 2, but had to be cancelled due to the pandemic,” said Bear. “We’re looking at alternate dates for that important event, but we have not finalized that yet.” The pandemic has had multiple impacts on the cattle industry. “COVID-19 has shown us that we must look at different ways to market cattle,” said McCullough. And those variables are many, including involvement with the trend to buy local. “There’s a good deal of fruits and vegetables grown and available in Hillsborough County,” he said. “That’s also true for cattle, and we look forward to building support for our members in that regard.” McCullough would also welcome membership from those who are not cattlemen, but support the industry and appreciate its importance. “Annual membership dues are $150 and that is split between the HCCA and Florida Cattlemen’s Association (FCA),” he said. HCCA membership includes three member dinners each year, which provides an opportunity to enjoy beef “cooked to order” and also to learn about the latest industry information. Members also receive copies of the monthly FCA publication. FCA, which was established in 1934, is a statewide, non-profit organization devoted entirely and exclusively to promoting and protecting the ability of cattlemen members to produce and market their products. Florida’s cattle industry is one of the 15 largest in the U.S. Centered around birthing and raising calves, Florida’s cattlemen are dedicated to the preservation of Florida’s green ranch land. As a large industry within the state, cattle ranches significantly support Florida’s interstate economy and provide
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Morgan and Barrett McCullogh
BYE BYE CHEAP GAS! by John Dicks
Well, the cheap gas certainly didn’t last long! It was only a month or so ago that I filled up my truck with the petrol ringing in at $1.59 a gallon. Yes, actually, there was that extra 9/10 of one cent that they always sneak into the price with the print so very tiny. Still, though, it all made it feel like we were living in a different decade with the gas flowing into the tank at a price less than what Walmart was selling for a gallon of certain brands of bottled water! Just imagine; a gallon of gas selling for less than a gallon of water. It made for strange times, indeed. Even stranger, was that sometimes you couldn’t even buy the water because the shelves were empty, along with those supposedly stocking the toilet paper! I know we’re all glad that’s all over with. I suppose we all felt a bit richer (or, perhaps, less poor) by saving on gas. Then again, we didn’t really need much gas since we weren’t going anywhere anyway. The joke going around, probably you heard it, was that even with my gas guzzler truck I was getting about “a month per gallon!” Maybe the price of gas is a real harbinger for the state of our economy. You’ve noticed, no doubt, that as we have been, in phases, restarting the economy the price of gas is percolating upwards, too. It’s already up about 15%. So, while it’s a pain to start paying more at the pump (though it’s still relatively cheap), it does make me think that the gears of commerce are starting to turn once again. Beware, though, we’re still not out of the woods, either with the real medical concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, nor the financial mess that it has brought. The economic impact suffered by Americans has been unprecedented;
and not just in amounts, but perhaps even more gut wrenching was the speed at which it was felt throughout the country. In a matter of weeks, the pandemic nearly brought on a financial panic were it not for the actions of the Federal Reserve and our Federal Government. The Feds fired up the printing presses and starting streaming money everywhere it could be imagined. The wisdom of pumping so much cash into the economy to help individuals and prop up businesses will certainly be debated by politicians for years to come. Likewise, it will become a required case study for business school majors. What’s been largely missing by many, though, in all the fiscal havoc and chaos we have endured, is an analysis of the economic effects on local and state governments. Already, for example, it’s been estimated that our Florida state budget will feel a pinch of $8 to $10 billion. The reason for such a draconian drop, if not simple, is certainly straightforward. Florida relies on revenue coming primarily from sales taxes. When consumers cut back on spending (and all of us have), and tourists are told to stay away from our sunshine state, the coffers in Tallahassee won’t fill to levels as planned. State legislators, just a few months ago, passed a budget busting in at 93.2 billion. If that predicted $10 billion shortfall rings true, it will force the Governor, Cabinet, Senators, and Representatives to have some serious conversations about cutting spending on planned services. Granted, there are some reserves available to be tapped, but it’s questionable whether there is enough to weather the “economic storm.” Unlike the Federal government, Florida has to balance its budget; and its got no printing presses to issue more dollars, like seems to be eternally available to Congressional leaders. While there is discussion for yet another stimulus plan, specifically geared to bailout local and state governments, no assurance of such is yet made. Elected officials are going to have their hands full formulating a fiscal policy that works!
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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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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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E n d a n g e r e d S p e c i es
Weeds with Value: Polygonella basiramia By Ginny Mink
We do a lot of writing about Florida’s endangered animals and sometimes neglect to consider the plant life that in many cases keeps animals alive. So, this month we would like to focus on a plant known as the wireweed. Just the name alone probably makes people consider it unworthy of protection. But, if we are true to our callings as stewards of this planet we have to value all things that have been put here. Wireweed, or Polygonella basiramia, was added to the federally endangered list by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on January 21, 1987. The initial proposal happened nearly a year earlier.¹ It is truly interesting how many species exist, natively, within our state that are endangered and no one has ever even heard of them. So, let’s talk about the wireweed! U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service describes it as “an herbaceous perennial endemic to the central ridges of the Florida peninsula.”² Probably what readers need to know is that it can be found in Polk County. Thusly why we have chosen to discuss it here. Though the Lake Wales Ridge is the main area of existence.² According to Encyclopedia.com wireweed can grow up to 30 slender branches that stick straight up and are about the same height. These stems grow from a taproot and can be as tall as two and a half feet. They will grow leaves that are kind of hairlike and are less than an inch long. But in the fall, the wireweed will produce white flower clusters on the tips of the branches.³ While we have mentioned that its main area of occurrence is the Lake Wales Ridge, its range extends as far north as Auburndale, Catfish Creek, and the Avon Park Air Force Range. And, it can be as far south as the Archbold Biological Station. Essentially, however, it is restricted to Highlands and Polk Counties. ¹ If you live in Polk County or venture anywhere in the areas of the wireweed’s range, it might help to know that the stems and leaves can be anything between green and dark red. Scientists and researchers seem to believe that the red coloration is due to more exposure to sunlight and a longer life span. However, they do admit that they have seen seedlings that are red in color.² So, it would appear they really are not certain what causes the unique tones. What they do know is that wireweed prefers the sand pine and rosemary scrubs where it can grow in barren spaces that provide full sunlight. Shaded areas are not good for the wireweed and it does best when there are patches of scrub growth that alternate with bare sand. It also benefits from brushfires and periodic burns.³
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Reproduction in wireweeds is kind of interesting in that their flowers are either female or hermaphroditic. So, they can reproduce asexually and the ratio of the flowers being either is 1:1. Bees, generally the small halictid ones, and Eumenidae
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wasps are their main pollinators. The female flowers produce more seeds than the hermaphroditic ones. And, the difference in number is staggering, roughly 218 versus 32. Though the plants like fires, no adults will survive them, only the seedlings.² Believe it or not, if the amount of seeds produced by these flowers would actually grow, then the whole population would be saved. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “… the number of seeds produced…in one reproductive season is more than 30 times the population density, sufficient to replace existing populations if only three percent of seeds were able to germinate and survive.”² But, they discovered that the soil crust had to be chopped and disturbed in order for this to happen.² Unfortunately, since most of the wireweed’s habitat has been lost to development, both agricultural and housing related, there is little chance of this process happening as needed. Especially since fires have been suppressed which allows other plants to overcrowd the areas and prevent the wireweed from being established as it should.³ There are a few areas in which wireweed has been protected since 1989. These areas include: Catfish Creek Preserve, Lake Apthorpe, Archbold Biological Station, Highlands Hammock State Park, Saddle Blanket Lakes, and Lake Arbuckle State Forest. Other areas are problematic due to off-road vehicles and foot traffic.¹ So, what can we do to help the wireweed? Well, supporting prescribed burns, or allowing for mechanical scraping would be an excellent first step as this would help them in the reproductive process and would prevent other plants from choking them out. Additionally, supporting the places that do protect them is a worthwhile endeavor. And, if you like off-roading or walking sandy paths, be cautious of where you tread. Remember, God put the wireweed here for a reason, whatever that may be, and our job is to protect all of His creation! Resources: ¹Nature Serve Explorer. Polygonella basiramia. https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.159230/ Polygonella_basiramia ²U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Wireweed. Polygonella basiramia. https://www.fws.gov/verobeach/MSRPPDFs/WireWeed.PDF ³Encyclopedia.com. (2020). Wireweed. https://www.encyclopedia.com/environment/science-magazines/wireweed Photo Credits: B A Bowen Photography. (2009). Sandhill Wireweed. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/75t3LL
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By Ginny Mink
Ornamental Gardening in Florida Part 69 Well, 2020 thus far has been a wild trip of its own! However, we welcome you back to travel on the Literary Time Machine. In times like these you have to wonder what our author, Mr. Charles Torrey Simpson, would have thought about all the things going on. Yet, we suspect that he might have just ignored things and kept right on plugging away in his own garden.
Our last voyage ended at a new chapter, Exotic Air Plants. New chapters are always exciting on this journey because you really never know what Mr. Simpson is going to say next. So, without further ado, let’s enter the ornamental gardening world of 1926 (it might be a nice way to get out of 2020 for a few minutes). We’ll jump right into his description of Anthurium huegelii. He writes, “A magnificent Cuban Aroid which clings to the bare rocky walls of the Organ Mountains and occasionally to trees… The petioles are an inch in diameter and sharply square, the flower stems come up one season and develop a brownish violet spathe and spadix and the latter opens flowers and produces seed the following year. This plant I introduced from Cuba and it has made growth to the full size…while attached to a stone wall.”¹ The full size includes leaves that are 18 inches wide and four feet long. This plant is huge! We had to skip some of his description because, well, it was just far too scientific! But that didn’t leave us less interested in this huge air plant that can grow on walls. So, we visited Dave’s Garden, as we often do, where we discovered it has several interesting common names including: Birds Nest Anthurium and Spike Leaf. The pictures there are quite interesting, especially of the flowers. However, what we found most interesting is that this plant is poisonous when ingested,² so it’s really not a good idea for those of you with dogs or cats that might have access to the place you decide to grow it! While the Spike Leaf was certainly fascinating, we were not prepared for the next plant, the Billbergia. He pens, “B. thyrsoidea from Brazil is one of the best. Its broad, light green leaves are two feet long and three inches wide; the flower spike which is generally produced in summer, is fifteen inches high bearing above an elongated mass of bracts and flowers, the whole being a beautiful rosy crimson to orange scarlet, the corollas deep blue. When a considerable number of these are in bloom it looks as if the woods were on fire.”¹ Can you imagine the beauty he describes here? But he’s not finished.
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He continues, “No plant that I cultivate is more completely at home than this splendid epiphyte. If a sucker is simply fastened to a limb so that it comes in contact it at once throws out roots and in no time it is an established plant. If it happens to fall on the ground it goes on growing and rooting as con-
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tentedly as if it were firmly attached above. The plants multiply with reasonable rapidity and now I have several hundred attached to the trees in my hammocks.”¹
Of course, his description made us curious as we hope it has done for you, so we did a little digging. With a little help from the Florida East Coast Bromeliad Society, we discovered that this plant has more scientific names than the newsletter’s writer has ever seen in a bromeliad.³ We suspect that Mr. Simpson was unaware of its bromeliad status, too. It’s commonly known as the Foolproof Plant, Summer Torch, and Flaming Torch. The names are based on how easy it is to grow, which Mr. Simpson definitely pointed out, and the appearance of its summer flowers, which he also beautifully described.³ Knowing a little more about these gorgeous plants does make us wish we had some! How about you? We’ll close this trip out with what no doubt was a bit tragic for Mr. Simpson. He begins, “Caraguata lingulata, Heart of Fire. An epiphyte with thick, narrow, recurved leaves armed at the edges with scattered, strongly hooked spines. At the time of blooming a short scape is developed and it and the bracts turn a splendid red. From the main plant long, strong runners develop which may reach a distance of several feet, at the end of which a sucker is produced, and this may attach itself to another tree. I had a fine plant that had begun to spread that was stolen, suckers and all from my hammocks.” It’s a shame that this isn’t the first plant he mentioned he had stolen. Though we think it’s quite interesting that back in 1926 people were busy stealing plants out of each other’s yards. Oh, that this was the worst of it these days. But, alas, we live in very different times now. So, until next trip, keep your plants and yourself safe and happy gardening! 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. 206-207). ²Dave’s Garden. (2020). Anthurium Species, Birdnest, Birds Nest Anthurium, Spike Leaf. https://davesgarden.com/ guides/pf/go/67246/#b ³The Florida East Coast Bromeliad Society. (2013). Summer is Here- Make the Most of it!. http://www.fcbs.org/ newsletters/0713FECBS.pdf Picture Credits: Jinjian liang. (2008). Bird’s Nest Anthurium (Anthurium hookeri). (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/4nDAXg HQ. (2005). Billbergia pyramidalis variegate. (Flickr). https:// flic.kr/p/f2DrMb WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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BEAUTIFUL 3340 SQ FT 5 BR POOL HOME ON 9.81 ACRES! 14 STALL STABLES Additional Separate two story 34X37 workshop with its own electric, well, septic, driveway.. IDEAL for animal loving family! ADD SOLAR AND LIVE OFF THE GRID! WANT INCOME? This property can easily provide $2000-$3000 per MONTH NET INCOME horse boarding! OR, MANY MANY other farm-style income uses. BLOCK CONSTRUCTION home has a floor to
ceiling fireplace, high ceilings. HUGE 1ST FLOOR MASTER SUITE! Updated kitchen has granite, pantry & island. 5th BR 1st floor has walk-in closet, ideal office. Upstairs BR's large, new carpet & ALL HAVE WALK IN CLOSETS! Central vacuum! NOW TO THE HORSEY STUFF: Main barn has electric, 14 stalls, 13 have turnouts. Stalls are 12X12 & STALL MATS INCLUDED. One breeding stall 24X12. Automatic waterers each stall & most have spigots. Wide cement center aisle. Automatic fly suppression system. Tack Room has AC, Feed storage room. Add’l outbuildings with 4 stalls. Several other buildings. Riding arena area. Whole property fenced & cross fenced. COUNTY RIDING PARK nearby with miles of riding trails. 6109 W KNIGHTS GRIFFIN RD, PLANT CITY FL 33565 MLS # T3170220
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A Closer Look
by Sean Green
Ticks
We all want to get outside again and opportunities to do so are slowly re-opening. The health benefits of getting outdoors inarguably eclipse continued indoor isolation. When you do finally get outdoors again, it’s important to remember that summer time in Florida is characterized by muggy weather and a lot of “creepy crawlers,” some of which have ancient roots in contributing to human disease. This is, however, no reason to stay cooped up indoors. The deep South has, after all, historically shared an association with insects, arachnids, and other arthropods. With disease avoidance preoccupying everyone’s mind lately, we thought it would be appropriate to take a closer look at ticks, a common outdoor menace. Ticks are arachnids rather than insects and are grouped with spiders and mites. Arachnids are characterized as having eight legs and never have antennae or wings. The body has only two segments, the cephalothorax (a fused head and thorax) and the abdomen. There are three families of known ticks, only two of which are found in Florida and grouped into one of two families. A 2019 update to an IFAS publication of the Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory addresses ticks specifically and confirms the soft-bodied ticks (Argasidae) are primarily nest parasites and not considered pests in Florida. According to the publication, the hard-bodied ticks (Ixodidae) include five species of concern that are known to feed on humans or domestic animals. The hard-bodied ticks (Ixodidae) are known as such because they have a hard shield (scutum) have four stages in their life cycle, egg, larva, nymph, and adult. They are obligate parasites, which means they must have a blood meal at each stage to survive. Consequently, they have evolved to be able to survive more than a year and a half without feeding while waiting for an appropriate host, which may be a different species for each stage. Their mouthparts, collectively called gnathosoma, consist of a harpoon like structure with backward pointing spikes that help the tick anchor itself into its host to feed. This mouthpart is why attempts to remove the tick often result in the head remaining lodged in the skin. In addition to the gnathosoma, ticks have chelicerae (fangs) that are more like solid saws than the smooth hollow thorn like chelicerae of spiders. Together these two parts form a tube like mechanism from which the tick can not only slurp up blood, but also inject saliva that inhibits pain, prevents the blood from clotting, and suppresses the immune system; a pretty impressive method of insuring the tick can feed for days undetected and undisturbed. Because ticks feed on a variety of hosts that can include mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, they are capable of being vectors for a variety of diseases for both humans and livestock. There are several factors that influence the potential for ticks to transmit disease. The environment must have a high density of host species and be humid enough to support ticks as they dehydrate very easily. When you toss your hiking clothes in the wash to attempt killing ticks that may have been overlooked, the washer does nothing to kill the ticks. Ticks do not drown in the wash. The dryer is effective in killing ticks, not so much because of the heat of the dryer, but more the dehydrating environment within the dryer that kills the ticks. To dehydrate the ticks, it is suggested that you run hiking clothes through the dryer for at least 20 minutes before washing them. Ticks can survive the wash and crawl out to seek a host. They can not survive dehydration in the dryer.
(Parasitiformes) from your lower extremities. A tick finds a host by detecting breath, body odor, body heat, and vibrations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) some species can even recognize the shadow of its host. Ticks will climb vegetation, usually less than three feet high, along a well-used path and lie in wait (questing) for a host. It secures itself to the vegetation with its third and forth pair of legs and extends its first pair of legs to hook onto any host that happens to walk through the vegetation. Once it latches on to the host, it will either attach right away, or wander about looking for a tender spot such as the ear or neck. Although the potential for disease transmitted by ticks is substantial, it is easily avoided even in the worst of conditions. For disease to be transmitted to a human or livestock, the tick must feed for several days without discovery. The feeding time varies with the tick species and the pathogen it hosts, but in general at least two days of feeding are required before any real danger begins and showering after a hike as a best practice nearly eliminates the danger of infection. When you are ready for outdoor adventures again, the following suggestions will help reduce exposure to ticks, but it is still important to shower and do a tick check when you get home. Tuck your pant legs into thick socks. Most ticks attach below our knees, ankles are often the first unprotected opportunity. Wear long sleeves Wearing long sleeves not only reduces access to open skin, but also masks sweat (which attracts insects) Stick to the trails. Established hiking trails in our parks are maintained and well used. Such trails will have fewer ticks than hiking through brush, even better if you stick to the center of the trail. Permethrin 0.5% This repellent should ONLY be used on clothing. It is an effective contact insecticide that mimics the natural components in the chrysanthemum flower. Clothes treated with permethrin can be washed 3 or 4 times before losing effectiveness. Permethrin treatment on clothing is non-toxic to Humans (according to the U.S. EPA). DEET Is an oily repellant that can be applied to either clothing or skin. The toxicity and potential environmental hazards of DEET increase at higher concentrations. Though DEET can be purchased as high as 100% concentration, it is not recommended in concentrations over 30% for children. Because DEET has been found to be toxic to freshwater fish and aquatic microorganisms, we discourage its use if swimming in natural waterways will be part of your day. Natural Repellents There are many natural repellents that work as well (if not better) than man made repellents. Native populations have practiced the use of local flora far longer than any commercial products have been available. I have experimented with some myself and can attest that they do work but require a more frequent application than commercial products. Natural repellents can be just as toxic as commercial repellents and should be used with as much caution.
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It is a common misconception that ticks jump or fall out of trees onto your head. Any ticks found on your head have crawled there
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Naturally Amazing Activities
By Sean Green
DIY Tick Repellent Understanding the nature of the insect is the best defense for avoiding the potential dangers a biting insect can present. This month we are sharing with you a recipe for a tick repellent that can be made at home from ingredients that can be purchased from your local grocery store. We have only included ingredients that are especially pertinent for ticks, but these ingredients will likely be effective for other biting insects such as mosquitoes, yellow flies, no-see-ums and other critters than can make your outdoor adventures miserable. We have listed the ingredients in the order of their effectiveness against ticks.
Ingredients:
(choose any combination)
CEDARWOOD OIL
Toxic to ticks, kills by dehydration, suffocation, and dissolves larvae
GERANIUM
Extremely potent tick repellent, can be applied to a dog collar
LEMONGRASS
Supplies: Clean spray bottle Carrier Oil (when not using blends)
Natural Tick Repellent, can be used directly on skin
LAVENDER
All-purpose insect repellent, safe for skin contact and young children.
EUCALYPTUS
All-purpose insect repellent can be used directly on skin, Do not use around pets.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
The acidity in the vinegar does not kill the tick but repels the tick as well as other biting insects.
1/2 cup Vinegar 1/3 cup water 20 drops Cedarwood Oil 20 drops Geranium 10 drops Lavender 20 drops Rubbing Alcohol (or until oil mixes)
RUBBING ALCOHOL
Add ingredients to the water bottle Put the top on the water bottle and shake Shake before each use, apply to skin, clothes, and shoes.
CARRIER OILS
Blend 2
Is used sparingly to reduce water tension to allow oils to mix with water. Mix carrier oil with essential oils if you will not be using a blend.Concentrated essential oils can burn the skin. Try to use carrier oils that have a natural sulfur content (which is also a tick repellent) Olive Oil Vegetable Oil Almond Oil
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Blend 1
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1/2 cup water 20 drops Lemongrass Oil 20 drops Eucalyptus Oil 20 drops Rubbing Alcohol (or until oil mixes) Add ingredients to the water bottle Put the top on the water bottle and shake. Shake before each use, apply to skin, clothes, and shoes.
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