In The Field magazine, Polk County edition by Berry Publications, Inc

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2013

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VetGun™, an innovative, new concept in the world of cattle insecticide is now available. The VetGun delivery system removes the hassle, stress and danger associated with working cattle to control parasites, including horn flies and lice. It is the only system offering the convenience of quickly dosing an entire herd in the field. It eliminates the need for expensive handling facilities, makes the process safer for both the cattle and ranchers, and reduces the labor requirement by up to 75 percent. The VetGun saves time, saves money and increases productivity.

move and work cattle, particularly when it is hot. One person could dose at least 100 head in a fraction of the time it would require with other methods,” noted Randall Tosh, Vice President-Business Development, SmartVet USA.

The power behind VetGun is the AiM-L VetCap™, which is a first-of-its kind, whole-herd topical insecticide application. The VetCap is a patented, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)approved, new dosage form that encapsulates Lamba cyhalothrin and Piperonyl Butoxide into a special soft gelcap. The VetGun uses CO2 to apply the VetCaps to cattle at a range of 15 to 30 feet. The VetCap bursts on the cow, releasing its contents just behind the shoulder. The formulation then goes to work in a similar way to pour-on products. The application dose is one VetCap for 600 pound or larger animals.

About SmartVet, USA

The VetGun and AiM-L VetCaps are available for purchase at local farm supply retailers and online animal health companies. It is manufactured and marketed by SmartVet USA and distributed by AgriLabs®. For more information and to view a testimonial video, visit www.smartvet.com. SmartVet is a drug delivery and biopharmaceutical company with a particular focus on large animal health. It was cofounded by a 4th generation cattle rancher to find simple and logical solutions to everyday problems. SmartVet believes in developing innovative solutions by listening to the people who work the land every day. We approach every problem from a cattleman’s perspective – “how can we make this easy to use, efficient and cost effective?” SmartVet is located at the International Animal Health and Food Safety Institute in Olathe, KS.

“The VetGun Delivery System removes the need for additional labor or special handling, making it ideal for operations that may not have sufficient working facilities or labor available to

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2013

Contents

VOL.77••ISSUE ISSUE 711 VOL.

Feature Story

Rob Krieger Locke Legacy Page 34

Page 34

Cover Photo by Melissa Nichols Photo by Melissa Nichols

VetGun

Page 3

Master Gardener: The Resplendent Hydrangea

Page 10

Bullock Family Ranch - Update

Page 13

Tampa Bay’s Fishing Report

Page 14

Romp in the Swamp

Page 14

Rocking Chair Chatter

Page 22

Polk Academies

Page 23

Polk County Sheriff’s office

Page 26

Business Up Front - Dundee Feed & Farm Supply

Page 28

Market Watch: Boondock Studios

Page 30

Florida - Longans

Page 38

FFA 85th Annual Convention

POLK COU NTY

CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS0 3 Bartow, FL 33831 -9005 OFFICERS & B OARD OF DIRECTORS President - Charles Clark (863) 528-8537 cclark@expoco.com Vice President - Dave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 cattlemanslivetock@earthlink.net Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch (863) 425-1121 jbunch@agriumretail.com Al Bellotto - (863) 581-5515 Ray Clark - (863) 683-8196 rclark@tampabay.rr.com L.B. Flanders, DVM - (863) 644-5974 Dewey Fussell - (863) 984-3782 Mike Fussell - (863) 698-8314 fussell.flafarm@verizon.net David McCullers - (863) 528-1195 Moby Persing - (863) 528-4379 Ned Waters - (863) 698-1597 watersn@doacs.state.fl.us J.B. Wynn - (863) 581-3255 jbwynn29@gmail.com Alternate - Mike Facente - (863) 697-9419 Standing Committee Chairs: Membership - J.B. Wynn Events - Kevin Fussell (863) 412-5876 Rodeo - Fred Waters (863) 559-7808 watersf@doacs.state.fl.us Cattlewomen - President Marjorie Wood (863) 660-4137 onnie397@aol.com Extension - Bridget Carlisle (863) 519-8677 bccarlis@ufl.edu Sheriff’s Dept. - Sgt. Howard Martin

Page 40

Kathleen Sr. FFA wins state Parliamentary Procedure CDE

Page 42

Annual Citrus Spot Burner Workshop

Page 43

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This month the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, published ten years of contract data online. According to their web site at www.freshfromflorida.com, this online information allows users to sort and download the information. “Floridians have the right to know how their taxpayer dollars are spent, and I’m committed to increasing transparency in our operations,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam. “Through our new online database, we’re increasing consumer accessibility to department contracts. Floridians can now access 10 years of contract data with a simple search.” For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ new contract database, visit www.FreshFromFlorida.com and click on “Contracts.” In addition, the FDACS has launched a new site with tips on making homes energy efficient. It is an interactive site that allows homeowners to evaluate their current usage and provide options to save energy in their homes. “My Florida Home Energy” can be accessed at www.myfloridahomeenergy.com. As always, please remember to purchase “Fresh From Florida” foods when you are shopping for you and your family. You will get the freshest food and help your local farmer and rancher as well. A very special Thank You to our advertisers for allowing us to continue to cover what is growing! I hope that you are enjoying your summer!

The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. _ Numbers 6:25

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2013

Melissa Nichols

Karen Berry Al Berry Stephanie Humphrey Lacey Waters Melissa Nichols

Ace Air Conditioning & Electric.................39 Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers..............................16 Bankers South Group....................18 Bill Edel/ Southern wholesale trailers..........................39 Carlton & Carlton, PA....................44 Cattlemens Livestock Auction.....21 Cecil Breeding Farm......................12 Choo Choo’s Lawn Care...............24 Darn Grills & Ranch Supply........7 Dundee Feed & Hardware...........33 Ellison RBM Inc...............................39 Everglades Farm Equipment..........2 Farm Credit.....................................27 Farm Bureau Ins Bill William......33 Fields Equiptment Co. Inc............23 Florida Mineral, Salt & Ag............44 Fred’s Market Restaurant................9 Gator Ford.......................................48 Grove Equipment Service..............17 Grove Equipment Service.............31 Grove Equipment Service............32 Helena Chemical-Tampa...............21 Hinton Farms Produce, Inc............16 International Market World.........20 J&J Tack Shack.............................27 Jason Grimes Contracting.............5 Jeff Walden Painting.....................39 Key Plex............................................45 Knights Station Feed......................37 Lightsey Cattle Co.........................39 Mosaic.................................................9 Organic Matters...............................15 Parkesdale Farms............................13 Pathway Biologic............................36 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association...................4 QLF Specialty Products...................7 Russell’s Western Wear.................43 Seedway.............................................11 Southeastern Septic, LLc.............20 Southside Store, LLC......................19 Southside Store, LLC......................41 Southside Store, LLC.....................47 Southwestern Produce...................31 Squeal Deal Animal Control..........5 Stephanie Humphrey.....................42 The Bug Man..................................39

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

July 2013

attended The Florida Cattlemen’s Association Convention this year for the first time. While I was there only one day, it was interesting to see how this truly grass roots organization functions. With few paid staff the FCA manages to get things done with the support of many volunteer committee members and the officers.

ferent Allied Members sponsored each event. Also, many door prizes were given away and drawings, and auctions held for the many donated items that help fund the FCA. Many thanks to all the volunteer workers and Allied Members who make the Convention a success each year. Also, the paid staff does an excellent job of keeping the Kissimmee office going throughout the year.

While cattlemen are known for their independent ways, they are able to join together and bring about solutions to the industries’ problems in an efficient manner.

In closing, I would like to give a special congratulations to Miss Harley Zoeckler, the current Polk County Cattlemen’s Association Sweetheart and also the new Florida Cattlemen’s Association Sweetheart. It has been a lot of years since Polk County’s Sweetheart held that tittle and I am sure she will represent Polk County and the cattle industry well.

Support comes from outside the organization through participation of the many Allied Association Members. It was evident throughout the various sessions as dif-

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July July 2013

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• The telephone was not widely appreciated for the first 15 years The spaniel family of dogs contains more breeds than any other. because not see use for it. In fact, in the British The namepeople comesdidfrom the aword Spain. parliament it was mentioned there was need When first born, the baby kangaroo isnothe sizeforoftelephones a bumblebee. because “we have enough messengers here.”three Western Ultraviolet rays from the sun can penetrate feetUnion below the believed that it could never replace the telegraph. In 1876, an water’ s surface. internal memo read:died “Thisontelephone has too50 many shortcomings Thomas Jefferson July 4, exactly years after the to be seriously considered as a means of communication.” Even adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Markworld’ Twain,s upon invited bytournament Alexander Graham Bell to AmaThe oldestbeing amateur golf is the British investGolf $5,000 in the new invention, couldsince not see a future in the teur Championship. It has existed 1885. telephone. The President who served the shortest time in office was W.H. Harrison, servedsaid onethat, month in 1841. that can be invented • Presidentwho McKinley “everything Coffee beans are actually the pits of a red cherry like fruit. has already been invented.” Post cards and postal cards are not the same thing. A postal • When Alexander Graham Bell passedprinted away inon 1922, card is one that already has a stamp it. every telephone served by the Bell in the USA andfounded Canadain The first all-professional U.S.system baseball team was was silent for one minute. 1870. Its members at that time were known as the Cincinnati Red Stockings. • Alexander Graham Bell never phoned his wife An easy way to chop nuts is to place them in a cloth bad and or mother because they were deaf. roll with a rolling pin. wasmile” the original telephonebetween greeting.an Alexander Graham A• “Ahoy” “country is the distance empty gas tank and ʻahoyʼ (as used in ships), but was later superceded Bellnearest suggested the filling station. 11% percentEdison, of the people in the world left-handed. by Thomas who suggested ʻhelloʼare instead. August has the highest percentage of births. • The concept of allocating telephone numbers to individual phone Unless food is mixed with saliva you can’t taste it. lines was invented by a doctor

A bear has 42 teeth.

We work to safeguard local water sources.

That’s our promise. At Mosaic, our 3,000-plus Florida employees place the utmost value on the resources we all share. Before we begin phosphate mining operations, we work with regulators to identify key wetlands, streams and floodplains for preservation. In other areas that we mine, we restore water flows through state-of-the-art reclamation. Whether preserved or reclaimed, these waters are monitored to ensure their quality is sustained for future generations. Join in Mosaic’s promise at www.mosaicco.com/promise.

Maron Run Headwaters Reclamation Project Active South Fort Meade Mine, Polk County

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2013

July 2013

MASTER

GARDENER

By Debra Howell

The Resplendent Hydrangea The resplendent Hydrangea has long been a Southern staple in both urban and rural landscapes. Appreciated for it’s verdant foliage and blooms of grouped inflorescence, the plant is sometimes thought of as “Grandmother’s old-time flower.” Native to eastern and southern Asia, in a range from China to Japan and the Himalayas to Indonesia, Hydrangeas are the darlings of the garden in late spring and early summer. Introduced to North and South America in the late 1700s, they catapulted to popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a garden and container plant. One big perk of growing Hydrangeas is that they will readily flower in shade. It is often assessed as an “heirloom” reminiscent of our gardening ancestors. If you’re unable to provide continuous shade, plant in an area with morning sun and afternoon shade. You’ll wish to keep your Hydrangeas moist but not wet. Some of the photos in this article were taken at the home of Polk County Commissioner Melony Bell and her husband Robbie Bell, a much-quoted bee keeper and pollinator. My friend Melony informed me that consistent moisture is a key to Hydrangea success. Other photos were taken at the home of Martha Hancock, another friend with a spectacular yard, upon whom I can rely for photo opportunities. Pom-pom blooms are characterized as “mop head,” whereas “lacecaps” are more flat and open - sort of lacey looking. Now the color of your blooms is contingent upon soil pH. Anecdotal evidence states that if you prefer pink blooms rather than blue ones, you may wish to add enough lime to cause the pH to run six or higher. If your flowers are naturally blue, your soil is high in aluminum. For really pronounced blue color, maintain an acid pH in the soil, whether you cultivate in the ground or in a pot. It is usually easier to alter soil pH in a controlled area such as a large container. This is only a temporary remedy of course. This gets real technical in UF IFAS bulletin ENH 1069. 10 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE July 2013

If your shady location does not drain quickly, you may amend the area with equal parts of sand and peat working well into the soil. I cannot stress how important it is to properly prepare the hole prior to installing your plants and trees of any kind. Remember the need to water frequently during the establishment stage, and keep moist, but not wet thereafter. The foliage of Hydrangea is so lush and lovely that it reminds me (of course) of something to eat. The beautiful leaves are bright green, veined and textured. They are deciduous, dropping their leaves in autumn when days are shorter. The Oakleaf Hydrangea grew wild around Mrs. Velma’s Alabama homestead, and is the only member of this genus to develop foliage color in the fall. Oakleafs also boast exfoliating bark, which peels inthe winter. You may use Hydrangea as shrubs, borders or in a large block as a specimen. They excel as a border for a natural, woody area or next to a fence. Use also as mass plantings, foundation accents and spectacular cut flowers. You may save the cut flowers and dry them for any dried flower display. Because Hydrangeas usually bloom on growth from the previous year, you’d want to prune, if needed, in mid- to late summer. Remove only about one-third of each main stem. Smooth and panicle Hydrangea flower on the current years growth, so don’t prune in early summer. Removing spent brown and damaged leaves will result in a healthier, fuller shrub. By removing old flower heads you may get another flush of blooms. Your beautiful Hydrangeas will respond to the same care whether they are free-flowering, conventional or everblooming. Always remember the right plant - right place rule of thumb and your hydrangeas may rarely need the pruner. On an historical note, the initial everblooming (remontant) hydrangea came under the radar of a plant expert called Dr. Michael Dirr, who noted the specimen in a Minnesota nursery. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

That plant was introduced by a nursery employee who had espied the plant in his neighbor’s yard and gained permission to propagate the plant. His interest was piqued when Dr. Dirr noticed the plant flowering in September and realized its commercial potential. That particular plant was given the name Bailmer and is known now as “Endless Summer.” Hydrangeas are almost free of pests when you adhere to the right plant - right place statute. If you encounter issues, it may be due to overly wet conditions or planting too deeply. If the Hydrangea appears to be stressed the following mites and insects may be to blame. New growth may attract an onslaught of aphids. Aphids can be present on Hydrangeas, as well as other garden staples like Crapemyrtle or Perriwinke.

healthy, remove dead leaves and don’t use overhead irrigation. The Hydrangea is an important landscape plant that has begun to regain popularity. As a result, breeders are striving to improve cold hardiness, reflowering and more disease resistance. Also in research are characteristics like colorful leaves and stems, and larger flower heads as well as bi-color and double large florets. So go get in your car, get a milkshake, cruise your little borough and scope out the placement and usage of your neighbor’s Hydrangeas, then plan how you’ll introduce these plants into your yard.

Oystershell scale insect may appear on upper stems. Fourlined plant bug, mites, Rose chafers and Leaf tiers may occur but aren’t normally present. This fact fears illumination. If you should discover webbing between the leaf tips, sure enough it’s Leaf tiers! There’s a critter way bigger that might inflect your Hydrangeas. Deer, in this case Whitetails, might dine on them if you’re in an area prone to such things. But not to worry -the deer will no doubt eat your Indian hawthorn first. Diseases you may rarely see are Powdery mildew, Cercospora, Botrytis blight, Mushroom root rot and Anthracnose. In an attempt to avoid any of these conditions, keep plants

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Premiers on July 17th at 10pm on UP. After running the story of Rusty and Julie Bulloch in April, a local music minister’s wife Dawn Lowery sent the link to the story to a surgeon friend who lives in Dothan Alabama. Dr. Maddox, an orthopedic surgeon, organizes a fundraiser every year for the Alabama Children’s Home. He contacted the Bulloch’s and invited them to come to an event where they were able to meet the Robertson’s from Duck Dynasty. Julie and Rusty were thankful and honored to have been invited to this event. The Bulloch Family Ranch show

premiers on July 17th at 10pm on UP.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2013

Jack with a huge Redfish caught while fishing Tampa Bay with Captain Woody Gore; action throughout the bay seems consistent www.captainwoodygore.com

Let’s Go Fishing in Tampa Bay: Fishing Repor

July 2013

Cobia

It is already July and it’s hot. If you’re fishing low water flats before an incoming tide and your live bait starts dying, keep in mind the low water may be depleted of its oxygen as it comes out of the shallow backcountry areas. Wherever low tides last through the night, especially as water temperatures have climbed through the mid and afternoon heat, the shallow water back country tends to lose its ability to hold oxygen. Therefore, some backcountry flats and pools containing oxygen-depleted water are carried out to your favorite fishing areas during outgoing tides.

Markers and sandy broken bottom grass flats, especially those holding bait, equal Cobia. These fish also frequent markers, those holding bait. They often cruise the miles of open grass flats following rays and manatees 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, like a cobia. You never know when one might slide by.

As usual, July remains hot without any degree of relief at least for another couple of months. In spite of the heat, anglers willing to endure high temperatures and humidity can look forward to catching plenty of fish. From Mackerel to Tarpon everything is cooperating and eating just about anything tossed in their direction.

Fishing should continue this month. Many begin moving offshore to spawn. Threadfin herring, crabs and larger 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 this month.

Snook

season remains closed, but after a three and a half year moratorium for the species,it will be reopened to harvest on September 1. Snook, Redfish and Trout have remained strong through the summer. Snook seem to be everywhere especially around the flats and mangrove shorelines, willing to take greenbacks tossed in their direction. Speaking of greenbacks, they are everywhere and the young fry are starting to appear. This means trout, trout, and more trout on deep water grass flats.

Redfish

action throughout the bay seems consistent with plenty of slot fish waiting to tug on your line. Trout, snook and redfish usually haunt the same areas, often cruising open flats and sandy patches early then moving into the mangrove shade during the day. However, the trout will usually stay on the open grass flats hanging around sandy potholes. Anglers favoring artificial lures should try topwater action with lures like the new MirrOLure Series III S7MR or the Top Dog 74MR, Top Dog Jr. 84MR. Later in the day, soft plastic jerkbaits baits like the favorite Gulp Shad rigged using their new 1/16 or 1/8 oz. heavy hooks practically assure success.

Romp in the Swamp to Benefit South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation

Registration is now open for Romp in the Swamp, a 5K and 10K obstacle run that benefits South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation and The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. The event takes place October 12 at Lower Green Swamp Preserve (formerly Cone Ranch), in Plant City. Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay is the presenting sponsor. The 5K and 10K races are for ages 14 and older, are chip timed, and include both natural and manmade obstacles. There are approximately 32 total obstacles in the 5K and 10K runs and the first two waves are Elite. Participants may run, walk or jog the course as they see fit. There will be two afternoon races of approximately ½ mile with seven obstacles for children ages 5-8 and 9-13. Each participant will receive a dri-blend shirt and finisher medal, and awards will be given for fastest times, best costumes and largest team. The largest team will receive preferred parking and a VIP tent. In addition, there will be a Wedding Wave where couples may renew their vows or get married by a notary public! The Wedding Wave begins at 10:40 a.m. Registration fees range from $60 - $80, depending on the category, and include free bag check, shirt, and after party with music. Kids Wave is $25. The registration fee increases each month, so participants are encouraged to 14

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2013

Tarpon

Mackerel

Fishing is on fire and Tampa Bay is loaded. August fishing should be no exception. Just find schools of threadfins or greenbacks, net a few, put out a chum bag, and hold on to your rod and reel. This means some real excitement on spinning tackle using 50 to 60 pound Seaguar leader and 2/0 long shank hooks. “GIVE ME A CALL & LET”S GO FISHING” Capt. Woody Gore’is the area’s top outdoor fishing guide. Guiding and fishing the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Bradenton, and Sarasota areas for over fifty years; he offers world class fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories. Single or Multi-boat Group Charters are all the same. With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Just tell him what you need and it’s done. Call or email a reservation request form from my website: Cell: 813-477-3814 • Office: 813-982-2034 Email: wgore@ix.netcom.com

www.captainwoodygore.com

register early. Discount codes may be found on the event’s Facebook page. Parking is $10 per car. Funds raised will benefit South Florida Baptist Hospital’s many projects to enhance medical care for the Plant City community, as well as community initiatives supported by the Chamber. For more information or to register, go to rompintheswamp.org or call (813) 757-1277. You also can track the development of the obstacles and “like” the event on Facebook.

About BayCare Health System

BayCare Health System is a leading community-based health system in the Tampa Bay area. Composed of a network of 10 not-for-profit hospitals, outpatient facilities and services such as imaging, lab, behavioral health and home health care, BayCare provides expert medical care throughout a patient’s lifetime. With more than 200 access points conveniently located throughout Tampa Bay, BayCare connects patients to a complete range of preventive, diagnostic and treatment services for any health care need. BayCare’s family of hospitals are: Mease Countryside, Mease Dunedin, Morton Plant, Morton Plant North Bay, St. Anthony’s, St. Joseph’s, St. Joseph’s Children’s, St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, St. Joseph’s Women’s, and South Florida Baptist. For more information visit BayCare on the Web at www.BayCare.org. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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Smooth. Agile. Flexes its Smooth. Flexes its muscles Agile. for heavy lifting. muscles for heavy lifting.

Our Massey Ferguson© 4600 Series mid-range tractor features the new power shuttle transmission. During loader work, it displays the muscle and maneuverability to go forward to reverse andFerguson© back without clutching. Ideal for mixed operations, from hay to livestock to Our Massey 4600 Series mid-range tractorfarming features the new power shuttle poultry. Come by and see what we mean or visit masseyferguson.us. transmission. During loader work, it displays the muscle and maneuverability to go forward to reverse and back without clutching. Ideal for mixed farming operations, from hay to livestock to poultry. Come by and see what we mean or visit masseyferguson.us.

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Mon. - Sat.: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

813-752-2379

3014 S. Jim Redman Pkwy. (Hwy. 39 S) Plant City, FL • www.southsidestores.com WWW. HE FIELD MAGAZINE.COM WWW.IN INTT HE FIELD MAGAZINE.COM

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Cattlemen’s Livestock Market

IN BUSINESS NOW FOR OVER 15 YEARS

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

3305 Hwy 92 E • Lakeland, FL 33801

Weekly Beef Sale:

Tuesday 12:00 Noon Pairs and all Vet checked cattle will be sold at 3pm

NEW, USED and ABUSED! Cattle Receiving Schedule:

HOME & MOBILE HOME SUPPLIES

Mondays: 8am-9pm April thru October 8am-8pm November thru March Tuesdays: 7am- End of Sale

• Code Approved Windows • Roof Overs • Metal Roofing • Window Rooms • Shower Stalls • Screen Rooms For Competitive Prices, Let Cattlemen’s Livestock • Carports • Complete Line of Plumbing Auction Market handle your Livestock Merchandising• Awnings • Trim Moulding • Vanities • Wood Paneling • Kitchen Cabinets • Steps Special Sales: ® • Antiques • Alcoa Vinyl Siding Replacement Heifer Sales, Direct Sales, Video Sales, • Stepping Stones/Pavers • Skirting All Breed Bull Sales, On Site Dispersal Sales LMAAuctions.com • Doors (Interior & Exterior) (Includes Dairy, Beef and Equipment)

Watch our sales online at

ake We M w Windo s n Scree

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Dave or Mike Tomkow

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(Between Lakeland and Plant City)

Office (863)OPEN 665-5088 SATURDAYS: 8:30-5:00 www.brokeandpoorpc@aol.com Dave Cell (863) 559-3266 • Mike Cell (863) 559-5091 or Home (352) 523-2081

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lant City is one of the state’s most productive agricultural areas. The farmers that grow crops here are some of the hardest working people in the world. Over the years they have accumulated a history of stories and events, some good and some not so good.

CarlneGrooms me thefriends story ofinhis grandfather who was cutof my told long-time Plant City is Dick Elston. ting hay. He said one hot summer day a preacher from one of sincein high schoolwas we walking have enjoyed ourroad friendship theEver churches Springhead down the and saw his and grandfather struggling to load hay back onto his horse drawn telling jokes. wagon. “You look tired, my son,” said the preacher. “Why don’t you rest moment, and I’ll give you a hand?”

“Nope,” she says. “Two of them are jumping up and down in the back of your truck, and the third one is honking the horn!”

with a few clothes and a couple of peanut butter and jelly sandSome folks that farmers but this story wiches. As hesay started for the aren’t front really door bright, his mother asked him proves they are wrong. Back in the 50s a farmer from Dover dewhere he was going. ‘I’m leaving home,’ he said. ‘And what cided to take a train to Jacksonville to visit some relatives. Theare you carrying?’ clothes his reply. train was full she and asked. he had ‘Some to sit next to a and city food,’ slicker. was To pass the time the city want slickertodecides to playthat’s a game with the ‘Dick, if you run away, alright,’ hisfarmer. mother said. ‘But you came into this home without anything and you can leave He says, “I will ask you a question and if you get it wrong, you have thetosame way.’ put down his suitcase the floorand defiantly pay me oneHe dollar. Then you ask me aonquestion, if I get and it started theget door a minute,’ hisfirst.” mother ‘You wrong,for you ten again. dollars.‘Wait You ask a question Thesaid. farmer thinkshave for aany while. “I know. legs, takes hoursthem to didn’t clothes on What whenhas youthree arrived, and I10want climb up a palm tree, and 10 seconds to get back down?” The city back.’ Turning red as a beet he quickly took off his clothes, shoes, slicker is confused and thinks long and hard about the question. socks, underwear and all, and hollered, ‘Now Mom, can I go now?’ ‘Yes’, was her once youAsclose that don’t Finally, the train ride answer, is coming‘but to and end. it pulls intodoor, the station, the man takes 10 dollars and gives it to the farmer. ever expect to come back.’”

I recall when Dick was in high school he was hired by A.P. Cooke, owner“My of father the Plant Citylike Courier, as a part-time type setter. Dick wouldn’t it,” he said. was later delegated the job of laying out the classified ads. He was said. “Everyone to a break. pretty“Don’t goodbeatsilly,” whatthe heminister did, although at first isheentitled was known to Come and have a drink of water.” make a few slip ups. On his first publication he had an ad for Barwick’s Drugagain Store, should have that read,his“Wanted: PartCarl said, my which grandfather repeated father would be upset. his patience, the preacher said, “Your father mustthe be time job forLosing married girl to work our soda fountain.” When a real slave driver. Tell me where I can find him and I’ll give him a Courier came outmind!” it read, “Wanted: Part-time married girl to work piece of my our soda fountain.” The only other one I can remember was an I don’t know what has three legs, takes ten hours to get up a palm dad10said his son was so down. angry “What he slammed the door and tree and seconds to get back is the answer?” he Cone. replied,It“he’s under the loadman of hay.” ad for“Well,” Carlos read, “Wanted, to take care of cows Dick’s stepped out on the front porch. She peeked through the window at Cones ranch that does not smoke or drink.” “I have The farmer replies, and He hands thetwo city girls slicker one and therenoheidea.” stood completely naked. saw coming dollar, and gets off the train. Last month Dick gave me a copy of his new book entitled, “Life down the street and immediately jumped in the shrubbery. I like the story of the two farmers in Tennessee out on a walk in the and Times of Plant City in the 1940s” (copies are available at the woods. a mineshaft. They looked eachknocked other, the They girls came passedupon by he ran to the front doorat and Plant City Photo Archives). Reading through the pages brought After and one said, “I wonder how deep this hole is?” loudly. back a lot of memories. He recalled in the good ole days, when everyone lowthe onstory money, theyfarmer suffered rationing. “Heavens, I have no idea,” answered his buddy, and said, “Let’s drop Thenwas there’s of the that because decided of it was time to a stonethere?” in and listen for it tosaid. hit bottom.” They dropped the stone his mother have about his three bred. He called his buddy theyou road and “Who’s He writes gassows being rationed during World down War II, were in and waited, but there was no sound. They found a larger rock agreedtoon a stud fee. The next dayfor thegas. farmer loads the “B” three giventhey a sticker put on your windshield Either “A,” and threw it in and waited. Still no sound! A short distance away sowsUsually, in his pickup takes them road to only the males. me, Dick,anletold merailroad in!” tie. Each lifted an end, and with great or “C”. as I and remember, youdown weretheallowed five “It’s they spotted He leaves them all day, and when he picked them up that night, he difficulty they dropped it in. Again no sound! As they waited, a goat gallons of gas at a time. asked the man how he can tell if it ‘took’ or not. The breeder replies “Dick ran right between them any and jumped hole. They stood there doesn’t live here more!”into she the replied. that if the next morning, the sows were grazing on the grass, they scratching their heads when a farmer came along an asked, “Have One were day Ipregnant, went tobut Bell’s restaurant forinlunch and next to if they were rolling the mud as sat usual, it most you seen a goat around here?” Well, as a matter of fact we have, c’mom, I’mfarmer. still your let me Dick’slikely dad.didn’t I told him we were good friends, alwaysin “Aw, replied the first “Weson. just Please had a goat runin!” past us and jump take. Comes the next morning, theand sowswere are rolling into that hole!” the mud as usual, so the farmer puts them in the truck and takes telling stories on each other. He laughed and said, “Did you ever themstory backofforDick a second fullhome?” day of frolicking. This continues for a Dick’s father concluded, “I watched her slowly open the door hear the leaving “Oh,a itsmile couldn’t theyou farmer, “Mineyour was tied week, since each morning the sows are rolling in the mud. About with on have her been face, my andgoat,” say, said “Did change mind to a railroad tie.” the sixth day, the farmer wakes up and tells his wife, “I don’t have about running away?” Dick walked in, grinned, and said, “No,” I replied. “Tell me about it.” the heart to look out the window again. This is getting ridiculous, “What’s In closing: for CAPITALISM, supper?” AMERICAN STYLE: You have two cows. You and expensive. You check today.” The wife peeks out the bedroom sell one, buy a bull and build a herd of cows. BUREAUCRACY, AMERIHe laughed was seven old he“Are decidwindowand and said, starts“When to laugh.Dick “What is it?” asksyears the farmer. they CAN STYLE: You have two cows. Under the new farm program the pointed pays out you a lot things I had thethe 40s. ed tograzing run away from home. I recall he packed his little suitcase Dick at last?” government to of shoot one, milk theforgotten other, andabout then pour Blind the peanut vendor. We had inner tubes inside of milkCharlie down thewas drain. 22

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W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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By Melissa Nichols In 2009 Polk County Public School system launched a new program, this program is Polk Academies. This is an innovative new idea that will help students across the county. Data shows that academies, small learning communities, increase graduation rates and improve student attendance. It has also been proven that these small learning environments reduce discipline issues and increase grade point averages by allowing students to make a connection between their academic courses and real life applications. These students are engaged in subjects they like and often in subject areas that they plan on majoring in. The academies also provide post-secondary opportunities to earn college credit through articulation and dual enrollment. Schools throughout the county are offering specialized courses based on their academy. Some of these courses are geared to help students who may not be able to afford to attend college by training them in a career of their interest, whereas others are offering courses that are established to help prepare them for the rigors of college classes. In order to enroll your child in an Academy they do not have to be in the school district for the particular academy. They can apply during normal online registration time (January to May) online at http://www.polkacademies.com/apply/ . However, outside of that time, students can apply directly at the school for the academy of their choice by meeting with the School Administration pending space availability. Here is a list of the agricultural and veterinarian academies Polk County is currently offering: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Auburndale High - Agritechnologies Academy Crystal Lake Middle- Pre-Veterinary Science Academy Dundee Ridge Middle- The FARM Ft Meade Middle/Senior- Agrowtechnology Academy Haines City High- Academy of Environmental Resource Technology George Jenkins Senior- Academy of Veterinary Science Kathleen Senior- Academy of Natural Resources Lakeland High- Academy of Veterinary Science Lake Gibson Middle- SHARK@LGMS Agricultural Science Track Stambaugh Middle- Stambaugh Middle Academy- Veterinary Track Tenoroc Senior- Animal Science Academy Traviss Career Center- Academy of Industrial Education & Manufacturing Winter Haven High – Agribusiness and Sciences Academy

There is a full list of the 100 plus academies at over 28 schools countywide available on the website at http://www.polkacademies. com/ . Polk Academies is a program that is sponsored by Polk County Schools, Post- Secondary Institutes and the Business Community. If you are interested in helping sponsor this program you can visit the website http://www.polkacademies.com/we3/Sponsor. asp or attend this year’s WE-3 Expo hosted by Sun ‘N’ Fun on November 19-21st 2013 at the Lakeland Center.

If you are looking for a highly skilled, motivated workforce, Invest in a partnership with Polk Academies. It’s a win-win for Polk County!

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INTIN HE MAGAZINE TFHEIELD FIELD MAGAZINE

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Polk County Sheriff’s Office Partners with Bartow Ford in “Rough Riders” By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff

You know how we enjoy shooting clays! Each year, Polk Sheriff’s Charities, along with multiple sponsors and supporters, holds the Bustin’ Clays with Sheriff Grady Judd event. Proceeds from the event support community charitable causes. Several of our sport shooters don’t stop with this event. Major Larry Williams, Captains Britt Williams and Ricky Wright, along with Retired Captain Kevin Widner, have competed in the annual Rough Riders Sporting Clays Tournament for the last three years. They have claimed the top prize twice, most recently in the Fourth Annual Rough Riders Sporting Clays Tournament which was held on Saturday, April 20, 2013, at Tampa Bay Sporting Clays, Land O’ Lakes, Florida. The Rough Riders organization is a charitable association and works to keep American history alive through educational activities, social service, and festive events. Members contribute time, money, and effort to several local and national charities. Whether assisting with the Special Olympics, Toys for Tots, the Ronald McDonald House or others, it’s common to see uniformed Rough Riders lending a hand. The 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment ‘Rough Riders,’ Inc. was formed for the purpose of creating and perpetuating a living memorial to the accomplishments of President Theodore Roosevelt and the members of the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment known as the ‘Rough Riders.’ The Rough Riders are best known for the Teddy Bear runs, where members hop on the Teddy Bear Express bus to deliver teddy bears to children who need a little cheering up. The Rough Rider shooting events are a great way for clay shooting enthusiast to enjoy the sport while helping kids, as well as reminding participants of the historical importance of keeping outdoor sports alive. For the past four years, The Rough Riders have held a sporting clays fundraiser in order to help further their cause. As a part of this fundraiser, the Rough Riders developed a special portion of their event known as the “Cop Cup Law Enforcement Competition.” Fifteen teams of law enforcement officers from all over Central Florida participated in this year’s event. Thanks to the sponsorship of Bartow Ford, the PCSO team has participated in the last three annual events winning in 2011 and again this year, 2013. The winning trophy, along with the revealing of next year’s trophy, was presented to the winning team on Monday, July 1, 2013, at the Sheriff’s Operation Center. The men and women of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office work hard every day to keep Polk County safe. They also use their free time to give back in creative ways such as participating in the Rough Riders’ Cop Cup competition. 26

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Photo by: Ron O’Connor

practices; and ferplication; of applis particiam have ing with nvolving d on scitions, the entations

Farm Credit representatives met with Congressman Tom Rooney for a status update on the Farm Bill and other issues pertaining to Farm Credit and Florida agriculture. From L-R are: Farm Credit of Central Florida (FCCF) Director Dennis Carlton Sr., Farm Credit of Florida CEO, Greg Cunningham, Congressman Tom Rooney, FCCF Chairman of the Board Emeritus, Al Bellotto Sr., FCCF Director Lewis Stidham, FCCF President & CEO, Reggie Holt. Farm Credit is part of the nationwide Farm Credit System created by Congress in 1916 to provide a stable, reliable source of credit to Rural America. The Customer-Owned lender has almost $2 Billion in outstanding loan volume and serves approximately 4,000 Florida Farmers, Ranchers, Growers and Homeowners. The cooperative also sells crop insurance.

resource guidance ndscapecontracat adoptater conme at the 54142, if m associ-

pics,

g™ .edu and

ation ida’s gh and Florida

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Business Up Front By Ginny Mink

Owner: Susan Sutherland (Center) Manager: Tomas Gonzalez (Left) Arturo Gonzalez Jr. (Right) Store Greeter: Abby (Bottom)

From Fish to Monkeys: All You Need at Dundee Feed & Hardware We all have dreams, things we are passionate about, but very few of us will pursue those notions to great depths. In fact, it would appear that many of us are great at dreaming things up, at listing areas of interest and fantasizing, yet the percentage of people with the dedication to follow through on such things is severely lacking. Thusly, it is incredibly refreshing to meet someone who claims to love something and has actually focused every aspect of her life on maintaining her ability to be involved therein. Such is the case with Susan Sutherland, owner of Dundee Feed & Hardware. Susan explained how Dundee Feed & Hardware got its start. She said, “I started the store in 1989 and I actually started it looking for a way to feed my horses because I have a stable out by Lake Pierce and I board 50 horses. I looked for an option of how to get feed for them, that’s Timberlane Stables out in Lake Wales. I’ve always had horses and then I’ve had the stable out there for about 30 years where, like I said, I board 50 horses and I run barrels. I professionally barrel race and I’ve just always had horses and dealt with horses. I used to train horses and ride horses and I still do and I still compete in barrel racing professionally. I didn’t grow up on a farm, actually I was the only one in my family that leaned towards this. The stables are over 60 acres so I stay pretty busy.” She continues, “I had a childhood love of horses and I decided I had to make it into a business. I was just looking for a way to keep my horses. That’s how I started boarding so I could pay for the property and then I started the store looking for a way to help feed them, a cheaper way to buy feed, to be able to buy in bulk. It was kind of like a snowball going down the mountain, you just keep adding and keep getting bigger and keep adding products.” She recalls, “When I was six I had a Shetland pony and that moved to horses, I’ve always had a horse since I was a kid, a horse of some kind or taking care of other people’s horses or 28

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been around horses and then I started professionally barrel racing in probably 1980 and I won six or eight saddles, buckles. I’ve been the NBHA (National Barrel Horse Association) Florida State Champion, District Three State Champion and the FBRA (Florida Barrel Racers Association) Senior Champion. I was about 30 before I got into it professionally, 25 or 30 before I started riding barrels at shows, up until then I had just ridden.” This passion for horses has laid the groundwork for her entire career. Perhaps the greatest thing about the dreams we pursue, is that they continue to grow. Such was Susan’s experience. She explains, “I started the store in ‘89 and then I added the hardware a couple of years later and lawn and garden items and I kept getting bigger. I bought the building next door so that I could store more feed and have more varieties of hay so now I’ve got over twelve varieties of hay: bales, blocks, rolls and then I added the self-serve dog wash. It’s kind of a new thing from Europe and it’s like a car wash only it’s for dogs, it’s got warm water and shampoo already in it and it kind of pressure cleans the dog. The people really enjoy it and really like it. The selfservice dog wash is open 24 hours. It’s in front of the building. It takes tokens that you purchase out of the machine or in the store. They’re at a discount in the store. It catches everybody’s attention. It’s just like a self-serve car wash. You just pull up and put your dog up on it and it washes your dog. The dog wash is the newest, simplest way of getting that dirty dog clean! It has a hot or cold dryer, flea and tick shampoo, there’s no bending, no mess! It’s fun and easy!” This is definitely an aspect of her business that she’s quite enthusiastic about and it’s certainly unique! The truth is, every good business must evolve and therefore Susan shared her methods for success. She told us, “Now we’re expanding this building for another twelve hundred feet of retail space to offer more merchandise and we just keep getting bigger. I think the reason for that is our priority is to offer excellent customer service and quality products at a reasonWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

Congratulations

FCA Convention in Marco Island Winners

Our Self-Serve Dog Wash is the newest, simplest way of getting that dirty dog clean!!

OPEN 24/7 Warm water!

Flea & Tick Shampoo! Hot or Cold Dryer. NO Bending! NO mess! FUN!! Easy! able price. That’s all it really takes in business is to do that. That’s our main objective, customer service! We now have several major feed companies, including Purina, and I think we’ve been successful because in this day and age people are so busy, gas is so high and we offer one stop shopping for all of their feed, hay, hardware, lawn and garden, pet supplies and farm supply needs. We try to make it where they can get everything they need here. We have rough cut lumber, mainly for farm use and ground contact use. We specialize in rough cut lumber and poles and fencing materials. We always have feed on specials. Every week there’s a feed sale. We stay competitive with everybody.” The list of supplies and merchandise available to Dundee Feed & Hardware’s customers is extensive, but it’s not over. Susan added, “We have a full line of lawn and garden, grass seed, vegetable seed. We have a feed for every animal, we have feed for everything from fish to monkeys! Don’t forget the livestock feed. And then we have tack, we have horse health products, we have fertilizer, we have fencing, we sell chicks year round. We also sell other poultry, too, turkeys and ducks and geese but we don’t always have them available, those are kind of seasonal. In hardware we have all kinds of plumbing repair, PVC, nails, nuts and bolts. Of course all your garden tools, an electrical department, hand tools. We just kept getting bigger!” she chuckles, “The customers have requested stuff, they want us to have more and more, they like shopping here. So, every week we get requests for new items and we add them just trying to make our customers happy.” With that selection, how could she go wrong? In case you’re interested Susan wanted readers to know, “We also have a website and facebook, all the social media:

www.dundeefeedandhardware.com.” You can visit Dundee Feed & Hardware at

307 E. Main Street in Dundee or give Susan a call at

(863) 439-3333 (FEED) WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

d Photo by Ron O’Connor – Farm Credit

Mrs. Imogene Yarborough of Geneva, FL. was named the 2013 Farm Credit/Florida Cattlemen’s Outstanding Rancher & Leadership award winner at the FCA Convention in Marco Island. She is the first woman to ever win the award. L-R Immediate FCA President Woody Larson, Imogen Yarborough, & Farm Credit of central Florida President & CEO, Reggie Holt.

d Photo by Ron O’Connor – Farm Credit

2 Rivers Ranch won the Florida Cattlemen’s Association’s (FCA) prestigious Florida Environmental Stewardship Award at the FCA Convention in Marco Island. In the photo L-R are Gene Lollis Ranch Manager at Buck Island Ranch, Robert Thomas, 2 Rivers Ranch (2RR) CEO, Johnny McCarthy, VP of Agriculture 2RR, Michael Babb, President 2 RR, Wayne Thomas, Executive Vice President, 2 RR, and Woody Larson, FCA’s Immediate Past President.

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Market Watch: Boondock Studios- Wearable Art By Libby Hopkins

Boondock Studios is a family affair. The Tabb family is thrilled to be a part of the Lakeland Downtown Farmer’s Curb Market where they sell their “wearable art.”

You see all kinds of vendors when you go to farmer’s markets. Some offer homemade baked goods and fresh produce, while others may have hand-made crafts or jewelry, but that’s not the case with Boondock Studios. They sell “wearable art,” that’s what Dan and Stacy Tabb, the owners of Boondock Studios call their leather goods. Their leather bags and other creations are truly works of art. “There are all different aspects of leather working and it ranges from traditional patterns to the cowboy/western stuff and now the steampunk styles as well,” Dan said. “I like all of it and I do a little bit of all of it as well.” The Tabb’s and their children, Molly and Kieran, are one of the vendors at the Lakeland Downtown Farmer’s Curb Market. On any given Saturday from September through July you will find The Tabb’s selling their wearable art while their son Kieran plays the guitar and their daughter, Molly, works on her novel at their booth. Kieran attracts customers to their stand not only with his guitar playing but also by the “creative” notes he attaches to his tip bucket. “He’ll have some crazy note saying ‘Need money for robot army’ or ‘Parents kidnapped by Ninjas and need karate lessons.’ It’s a point of pride for Kieran to make a funny sign,” said Stacy. “People give him tips not only for the music but for the amusement as well.” Boondock Studios is a great fit to the local and eclectic market. That’s just one of the things I love about the market, everything is made or grown locally, nothing is bought or imported from a far away land. The other thing I love about this market is that all the vendors are like one big happy family and Boondock Studios made me feel like I was part of their family while I shopped at their booth. I bought a leather bracelet that was hand-painted by Molly and her dad. Dan made me a custom bracelet while I did some other shopping at the market. By the time I got back to their stand it was done. I also ended up buying one of the many beautiful leather purses the couple have at their booth. Dan told me he grew up working with leather. “My dad used to do leather stuff when I was a kid and of course being a kid, I played along at home,” Dan said. As he got older, he stopped, but got back into leather working while he was at the James A. Haley Veteran’s Hospital in Tampa. “While I was at the Veteran’s hospital, one of the physical therapy options was leather working and they have thousands of tools to use, so I thought maybe I should try this again,” Dan said. “It turned out that I really enjoyed it and I was pretty good at it too, so I got my dad’s tools from my brother and I’ve been at it ever since.” Leather working has played an important part in the growth of civilization. Since prehistoric times, man has used the skins of animals to satisfy his basic needs. He used animal hides to make clothing, shelter, carpets and even decorative attire. From leather, man made footwear, 30

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belts, clothing, containers for liquids, boats and even armor. The principle protective armor for the Roman solider was a heavy leather shirt. Today, most leather is made from cattle skin but many exceptions exist. Lamb and deerskin are used for soft leather in more expensive apparel. Dan will tell you, no matter what type of leather you use to make an item, what matters most is the custom work that takes custom time. “I am driven by what the client wants and I make it for them the way they want it,” Dan said. “Everything I make is handmade and I don’t use a sewing machine, my stitches actually hold and I dye my own leather as well.” He takes great pride in his work and it shows. Cindy Reed is the market’s Block Captain and she is thrilled Boondock Studios is a part of the market. “I’m so happy that Boondock Studios decided to join the Lakeland Downtown Farmer’s Curb Market,” Reed said. “We needed a source for custom leather work in this area. Their attention to detail and creative genius is a bonus, not only to the market, but to the Lakeland area.” She also said that Tabb’s greet every visitor with a smile and they’re always ready to discuss new projects. Stacy said they tried other markets but they felt at home at the Lakeland market. “What I love about this market is the sense of community,” Stacy said. “We get to talk to so many people and we have regulars who come and see us every Saturday.” The Tabb’s hope to one day have a studio where they can teach their craft. The couple is also looking for a local leather dealer to supply them with leather for their pieces of art.

If you would like to see some of Boondock Studios’ wearable art, you can visit then on the web at

www.boondockstudios.com

or you can visit their booth at the market, which is located at

N. Kentucky Avenue at E. Pine Street in Lakeland. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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Locke Legacy By Melissa Nichols

here are last names in the show cattle world that that you can mention and people immediately know who you are talking about. These names have earned themselves a reputation for the excellent cattle they produce. One of these names belongs to a local family who has made their legacy the old fashion way, with hard work and dedication to the industry. This family goes back six generations of Florida cattle ranching to a day in time when cowboys were really cowhunters. In 1860 a man by the name of Rulle Bass asked his cousin Otha Locke to round up the cattle that at the time were grazing on open ranges and only able to be identified by their brand. Otha, his son and his helpers, worked gathering cattle out of the swamps and marsh land of Montverde, Fl. and separated them by their brand. After two long weeks and their horses being worn out and exhausted, the cattle belonging to Rulle Bass were ready to be “driven” to Boggy Creek, an area near modern day Kissimmee. Later in life he would tell his grandkids tales about this trip and the first time he saw an electric street light and ice. These stories of his family inspired something in Ted Locke, something that has been passed down generation to generation. Ted Locke was raised in Lakeland in a home that never had air conditioning. He had to help around the ranch and learned at a young age to farm, milk cows, feed animals, and play the fiddle. Ted had a determination about him that few kids nowadays can even fathom. He showed steers at the Jr. Chamber of Commerce rodeo and the Ocala Livestock show his 10th to 12th grade years at Kathleen Senior High School. Ted also worked part time making saddles at Culbertson’s Hardware in Lakeland. Even after suffering a severely broken arm from being kicked by a show steer that almost prevented him from playing fiddle ever again, Ted persevered. Once out of high school he went to work for Stuart Brothers Brahmas, specifically working with and taking care of their show cattle. Ted later married his wife Diane and had two sons Dale and Timmy. From the time his boys were very young they were learning all about raising cattle. Some say it’s just in the Locke blood. Others will tell you that if you ask a Locke and they don’t know the answer when it comes to cattle, nobody is going to know. To this day, Ted Locke still owns and helps work his 80 acre ranch in N. Lakeland. The showing cattle didn’t end with Ted, it just began. When Dale was just a young boy and was helping his daddy with cattle, he knew it was something he would be involved in the rest of his life. Dale showed steers throughout high school, got his first job at the cow palace and has continued to be involved in the cattle industry. Dale and his wife Paula have two sons, Dallas and Dalton. Dale has made a name for himself and his family with the

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branded name Locke and Load Cattle. The Locke boys were in a literal way “raised on a farm.” They were both young when Dale bought 165 acres of land that adjoined his dads and began his own cattle ranch. Times were very tight around the Locke house for many years. Dale said in order for a dream like having a cattle ranch to come true, “You have to be driven, have determination and be willing to make sacrifices.” Dale looks back over the years of sacrifices he made such as driving the same old truck for 22 years, and going in to work at 2 am, getting off a noon, and baling hay until dark with his brother Timmy. He reflects at the fact that most of the people around had nice trucks and boats and he had old broken down equipment, because he invested his money in good cattle. In the last 15 years Dale has gone to artificial insemination school to continue to increase his breeding animals. He has developed quality animals that are able to compete in the elite show world and on a national level. Not for money or greed, but for the love of the industry and children. Locke and Load Cattle has had many Grand Champion and Reserve Champion heifers and steers at fairs across the state of Florida. Dale has a reputation of helping kids because he honestly believes in the ethics and values that showing cattle teaches kids. He has a philosophy that is simple, he says “you raise your kids the best you can, you can take them to church every Sunday, but you can’t control who they hang out with and that is 50% of the battle.” He feels kids who show animals are those who have a huge amount of parent involvement in their lives. He knew he wanted his boys to be raised around and be friends with other showman. A fellow parent once said “Dale, I owe you an apology, you see once you let my son show his first cow, he didn’t have time for sports and I was angry because I enjoyed him playing sports, but I look back now and all those kids he played sports with got into trouble, and my son has done great.” This was an awesome testimony for why Dale does what he does. Dallas and Dalton Locke have been no stranger to the show ring. Their dad raised them with the mindset to have a hobby that can make you money. Dallas got his first show heifer at the young age of 10 years old, a registered Angus that his granddaddy gave him. His 10th grade year all of the hard work finally began to pay off as Dallas was able to win Grand Champion at two shows with a bull that was their first AI Bull. Dallas is currently an Ag teacher at Chiefland High School and is married. He and his wife Emily have two daughters Ryleigh, Abbie Claire and baby number 3 on the way. Dallas has made a name for himself in the industry in another manner. Dallas served on a state winning Livestock Judging team that inspired him to continue to judge animals. He has a WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

kim, dusty and kendall

Dale with Dusty at Jr Nationals

reputation of being a very fair and honest livestock judge who is asked to judge fairs and shows throughout the area. Dallas brought some of his Angus cattle up to Chiefland to raise and allow his FFA students to learn about showing animals. Dallas looks back at his years of showing cattle and says it was life experiences that truly have made him the man he is today. He says his years of trial and error made it much easier on his brother and cousins when they got old enough to show, as it truly was a growing experience for the family as a whole. Dallas says growing up as a 5th generation part time agriculturalist, he feels that they had to find their niche in the cattle industry, which was raising a hand full of AI Bulls and show cattle. Dalton began showing when he was 8 years old and in his years of showing Angus cattle he had countless Grand Champion wins and over 45 showmanship wins, he went to the Jr. Angus show in Tulsa, OK to represent FL in showmanship. Dalton had the confidence it took to go into the show ring and win. Dallas and Dalton were able to put themselves through college with the money they earned off of steers and heifers. Dalton was more focused of the Beef Breed side of the show industry and Dallas focused on steers. Dalton is currently employed at Publix and very involved with horses. Ted’s younger son Timmy never got opportunity to show cattle in school but he has been a huge influence on kids throughout the rodeo and show cattle worlds. Straight out of high school Timmy was employed as a “bull hauler” and drove trucks hauling cattle out west for about 15 years. Timmy and his wife Kim have a son Dusty and daughter, Kendall, both are avid showman. Timmy had his children involved in showing cattle since the time they were old enough to walk, starting with Pee-Wee showmanship when their older cousins were showing. Later Timmy served many terms as President of Lake Gibson FFA Alumni. He was very instrumental in getting the Alumni where it is today. Timmy passed away in 2010, but to this day if you say the name “Big Daddy” at a cow show or rodeo in Central Florida, people will smile with a fond remembrance of a man who would give you the shirt off his back and make you laugh while doing it. His children continue to show cattle and following in their cousins’ footsteps, are rocking the showmanship world with multiple wins and have class winning and Grand Championship animals. Kendall won Grand Champion Angus this year at the Florida State Fair. Two years ago Dusty was able to win three showmanship buckles at the PCYF during the one week period. Dusty and Kendall both help their uncle Dale work cattle on both ranches. They proudly show Locke and Load cattle. A legacy isn’t just something you leave behind, it is stories that people can tell for years and years that will inspire. It will remind them of the heritage of their name. The Locke legacy goes back many generations of hard working Florida cattlemen. Through blood and tears, trial, error and perseverance, and the love of the industry they continue to grow, continue to gain respect, and continue to leave a legacy, the “Locke Legacy.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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Florida Longans dragon's eye By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science

lorida is the top producing state in the country for longans, sweet Asian fruits that are found only in July and August. The longan is a member of the Sapindaceae family along with lychee, rambutan, pulasan, akee, Spanish lime, and soapberry. Longans have a light brown, thin peel with a white pulp and a large seed in the middle. They are enjoyed fresh, eaten out-of-hand, and can also be frozen, canned, dried, or preserved. Longans are in season for only a short period, usually July and August. According to statistics in 2008, longan production in Florida has increased four-fold over the past 20 years, and the annual longan crop in the state is estimated to be worth almost $3 million. Longans are available in many varieties, but the main type grown in Florida is “Kohala.” Round in shape, longans are slightly smaller than lychees with a smooth, thin, brown, leathery peel. The fruit’s texture is soft, yet crisp, and resembles that of a grape. Longans have a sweet, floral taste, much like a lychee. Nutritional Profile The longan is considered a very good source of vitamin C and a good source of fiber, copper, phosphorus, and potassium. The fruit is naturally low in calories, fat, cholesterol, and sodium. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, a 100g portion of fresh longan (approximately 8 fruits) contains 60 calories, 1.3 g protein, 0.1 g fat, 15.1 g carbohydrate, and 1.1 g of dietary fiber. It also provides 140% of the Daily Recommended Value (%DV) for vitamin C, 8% for riboflavin, 4% for dietary fiber, 3% for manganese and significant amounts of phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and iron. Vitamin C

With only 60 calories per ten fruits, one serving of longan meets 140% of your daily vitamin C requirement! This vitamin is important for a strong immune system, cancer prevention, healthy blood circulation and wound healing. Vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant in the body, neutralizing harmful free radicals and preventing its damaging effects in cells. By fighting cell and tissue damage, Vitamin C protects against cancer and other diseases, such as the common cold. This vitamin also enhances iron absorption from other foods, which reduces the risk of anemia. Additionally it aids in the development and maintenance of healthy capillaries, gums, and skin, as well as strong bones and teeth. Vitamin C also has anti-inflammatory properties that make them helpful for protecting against conditions such as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, where inflammation plays a big role.

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Riboflavin Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin that is not stored in the body, so it needs to be continually replenished through food sources. This vitamin works synergistically with the other B vitamins and is important for body growth and red blood cell production. It also helps the body utilize energy from the carbohydrates consumed in the diet. One serving of longan provides almost 10% of your daily riboflavin needs. Other foods high in this vitamin are green leafy vegetables, legumes, and dairy products. Potassium Longans are high in potassium, a mineral which promotes healthy heart function and protects against high blood pressure. Potassium helps regulate fluids and mineral balance, aids in muscle contraction, and helps transmit nerve impulses. People with low potassium levels are more prone to muscle cramps. Fortunately vegetables and fruits, such as longans, are a rich source of potassium. How to select and store Choose longans that are tan to light brown in color, since they turn from green to tan when ripe. They should be uniform in color, free of any wet or soft spots, and feel bouncy (firm but yielding to pressure) when squeezed. Longans are delicate and best when eaten right away. They can be stored in the refrigerator in an open container or loosely wrapped in a paper towel for up to seven days. Longans can also be frozen whole, with the skin on, in an air-tight plastic zipper bag. Canned longans, found in Asian markets and some grocery stores, are whole fruits packed in syrup, and a convenient way to enjoy the fruit year-round. How to enjoy Longans are sweet, juicy, and delicious eaten out-of-hand. Rinse the fruits and peel before eating. Peeled and pitted fruit can be enjoyed in the following ways: • Add to fruit salads and desserts • Toss in salads or stir-fries • Slice as a relish for fish or chicken • Puree for use in sorbet or ice cream • Chop and add to cereal or oatmeal or yogurt Savor fresh Florida longans today at its peak season. Sweet and delicious, longans are a nutritious summertime treat. Selected References http://www.ipmcenters.org http://www.hort.purdue.edu/ http://edis.ifas.uf l.edu/pi050 WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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By Melissa Nichols This year’s Florida FFA State Convention was a special one for many reasons. One of those reasons is the fact that it was a milestone year. This was the 85th Annual Florida FFA Convention. The convention began on Monday, June 10 with FFA students from all over the state of Florida arriving to the Caribe Royale Resort and Convention Center in Orlando. This five day long convention is a time for the FFA students and supporters to be recognized for their accomplishments throughout the year. This year was no different, it was action packed with winners and the best of the best when it comes to Career Development Events and Supervised Agricultural Experience Activities. This year had nine general sessions. Each session was scheduled to recognize students in their excellence of the area they participated. Polk County had a huge presence on stage this year. The students and affiliates were recognized in the following.

American Degree Recipients: • Taylor Walker - Kathleen Senior FFA

• Lake Gibson Middle FFA, 5th place

Extemporaneous Speaking Contest:

• Lake Gibson Middle, 3rd place in state, Hannah Scioti • Kathleen Senior FFA, 5th place in state, Thomas Farris

Forestry CDE:

• Bartow Senior FFA, State Champion Team, Brett Wasden High individual

Land Judging CDE:

• Kathleen Senior FFA State Champion Team, Joseph Julian 1st place High Individual.

Nursery and Landscape CDE:

• Crystal Lake Middle FFA, 2nd place in state • Lake Gibson Middle FFA, 3rd place in state • Kathleen Senior FFA, 4th place in state

Ornamental Horticulture CDE:

State Degree Recipients:

• Justin Barthle, Josh Duff, Baleigh Williams - Haines City Senior FFA • Wyatt Cobb - Auburndale Senior FFA • Haley Pickerell, Shelby Hawkins - Lakeland Senior FFA • Nicole Green, Charity Bowe, Thomas Farris, Michael Gary, Ashley Meredith - Kathleen Senior FFA

• Morgan Carlton and Nicole Green, Consumer use, 2nd place in state, Kathleen Senior FFA • Katie Harwell and Blair Buchanon, Consumer use, 3rd place, Lake Gibson Middle FFA

Parliamentary Procedures CDE:

New chapters recognized and chartered:

• Kathleen Senior FFA, State Champion Team

Chapters Awarded and recognized:

• Lake Gibson Middle, 5th place in state, Madison Dvorak

• Jean O’Dell FFA and Mulberry Middle FFA

• Kathleen Senior FFA • Premier Chapter • National Chapter Award “Florida’s Finest” • Chapter SAE Award

Prepared Public Speaking CDE:

Frostproof Senior FFA placed 4th and Kathleen Senior FFA Placed 7th in the “Harvesting Change” fundraising program.

Honorary Award Recipients:

• Mr. David Byrd was recognized with the prestigious Blue & Gold Award and The Lifetime Service Award.

In each session one of the current six State Vice Presidents and the Secretary Matthew Cantrell, gave his or her retirement addresses. During the 9th general session the current president, Clayton Willis, gave his retirement address. This was followed by the 2013-2013 State FFA Officers being announced.

Proficiency winners:

This year’s Florida FFA Officers are as follows:

• Taylor Walker: Ag Sales, Kathleen Senior FFA • Morgan Carlton: Ag Communications, Kathleen Senior FFA • Greg Vansluyters: Ag Mechanics Design and Fabrication, Kathleen Senior FFA • Ashley Meredith: Equine Science, Kathleen Senior FFA • Morgan Carlton: Ag Education, Kathleen Senior FFA • Wes Fussell: Beef Enterprise, Bartow Senior FFA • Brett Wasden: Ag Education Placement, Bartow Senior FFA

Agri-science Fair:

• Lake Gibson Middle FFA, 1st place in Plant Science, Blair Buchanon and Katie Harwell

Aquaculture CDE:

• Kathleen Senior FFA, State Champion Team

• Crystal Lake Middle FFA, State Champion team, Luke Tefoe High Individual • Dundee Ridge Middle FFA, 3rd place, Sofia Benabe 5th place High Individual

Citrus CDE:

• Kathleen Senior FFA, State Champion Team, Lexi Sanchez High Individual • Dundee Ridge Middle FFA, 2nd place, Katherine Byrd 4th place High Individual • Crystal Lake Middle FFA, 4th place 40

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President Megan Stein Sebring FFA Secretary Wally Martin DeSoto FFA Area I Gordon Yoder, Blountstown FFA Area II Logan Luse, Lafayette FFA Area III Travis Theige, Wildwood FFA Area IV Brett Wasden, Bartow FFA Area V Haley Smith, Durant FFA On Wednesday and Thursday the students that attended this year’s convention were able to walk through the Trade and Career Show. At this show, students were able to speak to various companies that support agriculture and learn about careers within agriculture. Some of these companies were CSX, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Association of Ag Educators, and Warner University to name a few. Vendors also set up booths to sell items that pertained to FFA and Agriculture. In addition, the Trade Show was the location one could see the items donated by FFA Alumni and bid on the silent auctions. As the convention came to a close many people commented on how impressed they were with the fact that the media room was run by students at the University of Florida who are majoring in Ag Communications. This is one of the many examples of how agriculture programs really are outstanding in so many areas of study. These students did an awesome job. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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State Champion

To hold in moisture around your roses, and hopefully thwart the proliferation of weeds, an organic mulch is recommended. As it decomposes, you'll replace the mulch, bearing in mind that even when your mulch disappears, you're building nutritious soil. Mulch makes weeding much easier, too. If you plan to use your roses as cut flowers, think about your intended arrangement and trim the roses length accordingly. Use larger blooms low in the container and use smaller blooms and buds at the top for height. Also, try to use odd numbers of flowers in your arrangement, as florists do. If you cut buds when they are too tight they'll probably refuse to open. Always make a clean cut with a sharp knife or cutting shears, trying to avoid a ragged cut for the sake of the plant.

Roses have graced gardens literally for centuries, being used as ground covers, shrubs, vines, container and specimen plants, flowering almost year-round in central Florida. Roses appear in a plethora of colors and scents. They also come with a wide range of implications and situations. You may give them on the occasion of a sweetheart, the Prom, a proposal, an acceptance, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Grandparents Day, Boss' Day, Employees Day, Good Grades Day, Apology Day, the Kentucky Derby (Run for the Roses)...well, let's just say from birth to death, there's an occasion for roses. Now that you know that there's no need for an excuse to give this beautiful flower, plan a garden plot for roses and bestow the splendor of the rose on some unsuspecting soul soon and often.

These roses are in memory of my precious dad Nelson Lunn, athlete and great playing (Left to Right) Matthew Cantrell (State FFA Secretary), Morgan Carlton, Thomas Farris,golfer, Jamienow Garner, Taelerthrough with his good friend Art, both gone home on December 18th, 2012. Dupre, Lexi Sanchez, Michael Gary, Keitha Hall (Advisor/Coach), and Clayton Willis having (State FFA President) You've got all my love and respect, dad.

Kathleen Sr. FFA wins state Parliamentary Procedure CDE Every high school is proud of their state championship teams — whether football, basketball,

their knowledge of Robert’s Rules of Order. The team is required to present 10 motions during a mock 10 minute business meeting, make four convincing debates each, answer oral questions, answer band, or academic teams — it brings the school and community a set of team clarifying questions, submit proper minutes of their together. Kathleen High School is full of pride in regards to their mock meeting and take a written exam on parliamentary law. NeedState Champion FFA Parliamentary Procedure team. less to say, it requires a lot of effort on the part of the team memSome roses weekly fungicidal spraying tobers and teachers to achieve success in this event. On June 12, will 2013require members of the Kathleen or Sr insecticidal FFA Parliamentary of rosethe care is maintain the quality of the plant. An important aspectduring Procedure team won the state contest held in Orlando the proper of fungal disease would 85th Floridamanagement FFA Convention. Theblack feat spot. was This accomplished with not a beTeam members arrived at the Florida FFA Convention to take their near prevalent practice, in states determination which lack ourand wet, humid climate. Begin towritten exam on Monday night, June 10. The test was multiplelot of as dedication, academic intelligence. Team members Morgan Carlton, Michael Gary, Lexi Sanchez, treat roses whenare new growth emerges, continuing through theTaelgrowingchoice with 25 questions that each member took individually. The er Dupre, Jamie Garner and Thomas Farris. season. One asset associated with shrub roses is that these low-mainte-test is very important because it determines what “flight” the team competes in. Kathleen FFA scored 149 out of a possible 150 points, nance roses are resistant to black spot with very few or no sprays. making them the first seed in the state contest. In the semi-finals, The team started practicing in September, meeting two days a the team competed against five other quality teams from across the week for an hour and a half in preparation for the contest. Some Yet another fungal disease which is a threat in spring or late fall is pow-state and advanced to the final four. After a third day of competiteam members had participated in parliamentary procedure for four dery mildew, which covers new leaves and buds with a powdery whitetion, the results were announced during the evening session on years, while this was the first time for others. The first contest the substance. This disease rarely kills the plant but will damage leaves andWednesday June 12 in front of over 4,000 FFA members and guests team participated in was the sub-district event on December 13. blooms. from across the state. This is the first time Kathleen FFA has won This win allowed the team to advance to the district contest. At the this CDE and the first time a school in Polk County has won since district contest, held at Warner University in Lake Wales, Kathleen Otheruppests which you solid mightteam, encounter include aphids,Haines City FFA won the state contest in 1991. With Kathleen’s win at went against a very the Bartow FFAcaterpillars, Parliamentary thrips or spider mites. The hedge of win protection for the yourteam roses isthe state level, they will advance to the National FFA Parliamentary Procedure team, and came outbest on top. This guaranteed detection of infestations. that should aearly chance to compete in the stateBut contest in June.be easy considering theProcedure CDE in Louisville, Kentucky this October, where they will close scrutiny you'll afford your beauties once you fall in love withcompete against the best team each state has to offer from across the nation. Congratulations Kathleen FFA on this prestigious accomthem.Parliamentary You may contact the extension office for BMP's The Procedure Career Development Event(best (CDE)manageis one of the most challenging events offered through the National FFA ment practices) for these and other pest problems you may encounter. plishment and good luck at nationals. Organization. The event requires a six person team to demonstrate

12 42

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Don’t miss this opportunity Annual Citrus Spot Burner Workshop The Florida Forest Service’s Lakeland District will conduct its annual Citrus Spot Burner Workshop on September 26, 2013 at 9 a.m. at Polk County Extension Service. The program is intended to aid grove managers by allowing citrus pile burns during high fire occurrence days. All participants must attend the workshop in order to take advantage of the program. The workshop will cover smoke management practices, recent changes in burning rules and regulations, and a discussion of owner/ burner concerns. A site inspection for approving the burn sites can be arranged after the meeting. The following is a review of the requirements of the Program: 1. Complete an application for each location. 2. Provide a map of the grove with Section, Township and Range on 8½ x 1l paper (several maps can be used to cover larger areas) 3. All pre-approved burn sites must be interior grove sites at least 400’ from any combustible fuels and comply with setback restrictions as outlined in Statue 590. Latitude and Longitude coordinates are required for all approved sites. 4. Attend the annual Citrus Spot Burner workshop every year.

Congratulations Harley Zoeckler Florida Cattlemen’s Sweetheart Photos by Ron O’Connor – Farm Credit

The Florida Forest Service encourages your participation in the program. The ability to receive a burn authorization on marginal days could be a great benefit to the grove manager. Please feel free to call, should you have any questions. Please Respond to: Florida Forest Service 5745 S. Florida Ave Lakeland, Florida 33813 (863) 648-3163

Polk County Extension Service 1702 U.S. Highway 17 South Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 519-8677

From the north: Take I-4 to SR 570 (Polk Parkway. If traveling eastbound (from Tampa or I-75), take Exit #27 for Polk Parkway East. If traveling westbound (from Orlando or the Turnpike), take Exit #41 for Polk Parkway West. At the intersection with US 98, turn south toward Bartow. In Bartow, turn left (east) onto SR 60 and go to US 17 (Spessard Holland Parkway). Turn right (south) onto Hwy 17 and go one block past the traffic light at Georgia Street. The Extension Office is just after Clower Street on the left. From the south: Go north on Highway 17 through Fort Meade. As you approach Bartow the Extension Office is on your right just past the orange packing plant.

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