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CONTENTS
November 2018 VOL. 12 • ISSUE 3 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association
24 FLORIDA’S RELATIVELY UNKOWN, BUT IMPORTANT INDUSTRIES
PAGE 10 Master Gardner
PAGE 32 Triplets PAGE 34 The Field Foodies
PAGE 12 Jack Payne
PAGE 36 John Dicks
PAGE 14 Fishing Hot Spots
PAGE 38 Bobby Costine
PAGE 16 Business Up Front
PAGE 40 Deere Day
PAGE 18 From The Grown Up
PAGE 41 A Closer Look
PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter PAGE 26 Literary Time Machine
PAGE 42 PCSO
PAGE 30 Coffee
PAGE 45 PCCW
PAGE 31 News Briefs
Hey Readers!
Hidden somewhere in the magazine is a No Farmers, No Food logo. Hunt for the logo and once you find the hidden logo you will be eligible for a drawing to win a FREE No Farmers No Food Sticker and a FREE In The Field T-Shirt. Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the number of the page which you found the logo and where on the page you located the logo to the address below
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InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377 • Plant City, Fl. 33566-0042 *Winners will be notified by phone. You Too Can Be A Winner!
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P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL. 33831-9005 President – Carlton Taylor 9875 Hancock Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 858-1771 L2brangus@aol.com Vice President – Ray Clark 4484 Swindell Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 640-0719 rclark@tampabay.rr.com Secretary/Treasurer Justin Bunch PO Box 849 Highland City, FL 33846 (863) 425-1121 justin.bunch@cpsagu.com State Director – David McCullers 1000 Hwy 630 W Frostproof, FL 33843 (863) 635-3821 crookedlakeranch57@ gmail.com Donald Conroy 3882 Wolfolk Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 412-0790 Kevin Fussell 4523 Fussell Rd Polk City, FL 33868-9676 (863) 412-5876 Mike Fussell 4520 Barush Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 698-8314 fussell.flafarm@gmail.com Moby Persing 3380 Sam Keen Rd Lake Wales, FL 33898 (863) 528-4567 Ken Sherrouse 13475 Moore Rd Lakeland, FL 33809 (863) 698-1834 kensherrouse@yahoo.com Scott Shoupe 6130 Allen Lane Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 581-7593 Scott_shoupe@hotmail. com
3305 US Highway 92 E Lakeland, FL 33801-9623 (863) 665-5088 J. B. Wynn PO Box 197 Alturas, FL 33820 (863) 581-3255 jbwynn29@gmail.com Standing Committee Chairs: Membership- J.B. Wynn Events- Kevin Fussell Trade Show- Bridget Stice Rodeo- Fred Waters PO Box 463 Alturas, FL 33820 (863) 559-7808 Website – Adam Norman 2115 West Pipkin Rd Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 944-9293 Adamnorman1977@gmail. com Cattlewomen – President, Megan Atkinson 3970 Gerber Dairy Rd Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 559-1228 Megamess007@yahoo. com Extension – Bridget Stice PO Box 9005, Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 519-1048 bccarlis@ufl.edu Sheriff’s Dept. – Sgt. Paul Wright 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 557-1741 pw5281@polksheriff.org Warner University – Cameron Cato 13895 Hwy 27 Lake Wales, FL 33859 (352) 561-6459 James.cato@warner.edu
Dave Tomkow WWW. ININTHE FIELD MM AGAZINE.COM WWW. THE FIELD AGAZINE.COM
A Winter Wonderland
NOVEMBER 23RD - DECEMBER 24TH THURS - SUN | 6PM - 10PM
at the
2508 West Oak Ave Plant City, FL 33563
Admission:
3 & Under.......FREE Ages 4-12............$3 13 & Older...........$5 *plus tax
letters to santa, ornaments, face painting and LEGO in the KidZone
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MEDIA SPONSOR
STAFF Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt
Sales Tina Richmond Melissa Nichols
Letter from the Editor It’s hard to believe that In The Field magazine is celebrating the completion of 14 years. Things have changed for us throughout this journey, both good and bad. The magazine has continued to cover what is growing as the way of cultivating crops adapts with the changing times. We’ve lost people dear to us, including Al Berry, father of publisher Karen Berry and author of everyone’s favorite Rocking Chair Chatter. We look forward to many more years of covering the second largest industry in our great state. As things evolve we will keep you informed. Stories of families that have been farming or ranching continue to amaze us. We look forward to meeting more of you and sharing your stories. But most of all, our advertisers allow us to continue bringing you the latest on agriculture in our area. Some of you have been with us since day one and we want to let you know how much we appreciate you. You are so important to us. It’s been an incredible journey and we aren’t stopping now!
Creative Director/Illustrator Juan Alvarez Photography Karen Berry Melissa Nichols Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Breanne Williams Contributing Writers Woody Gore John Dicks
As you gather together with your families for Thanksgiving, don’t forget the farmer and rancher. When shopping for your feast, and every day, look for the Fresh from Florida label. You will be getting the freshest possible food and supporting our community. “Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving.”– W.T. Purkiser In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Polk 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 Polk County Catllemen’s Association.
Until Next Month
Sarah Holt The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25
Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909 Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In the Field magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc.
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Published by Berry Publications, Inc.
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Dear PCCA Members, It is hard to believe we are already in the month of November. Before you know it, 2018 will be over. November is a month of Thanksgiving in our country, however, we should be thankful every day that we live in a country where we are truly free. A special thanks to all our men and women who serve in the military and law enforcement to protect our freedoms.
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The general election has wrapped up and Florida voters have passed Amendment 13, which ends dog racing in Florida by December 31, 2020. Thousands of greyhounds will be in need of new homes. However, this amendment opens up Pandora’s Box for all animal agriculture, our heritage and way of life. We have already seen what these groups have done to the circus and now the dog racing industries in Florida. I am sure our friends at Florida Farm Bureau and the Florida Cattle-
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men’s Association will be sharing next steps to help protect our way of life. Stay tuned and we will definitely communicate this with the membership. The PCCA will be hosting our Fall Cattlemen’s Dinner at the Stuart Center in Bartow on Thursday, November 15th, where Alex Johns, President of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association is planning to join us. I would encourage all members to make plans for our great Steak Dinner and to learn what is happening at the state level on a variety of issues. Until next time, EAT MORE BEEF.
Carlton Taylor
Polk County Cattlemen’s Association President
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Personal Favorites
Master Gardener By Debra Howell, Florida Master Gardener UF/IFAS Extension Polk County
According to the University of Florida, a Florida-Friendly Landscape™ is one where the right plants are in the right place, watering is done efficiently, fertilizing done appropriately, mulch is used, wildlife is attracted, yard pests are responsibly managed, yard waste recycled, storm water runoff is reduced, and the precious waterfront is protected. A trio of Florida-Friendly plants which are available in the Central Florida area are firebush, thryallis and American beautyberry. If you are looking for a colorful shrub to highlight a spot in your yard that receives part sun and part shade, consider planting a firebush. This large soft-stemmed shrub is a tough, low maintenance native plant. If used as a hedge, it may require pruning, which may result in the removal of some flowers. The flowers will occur most months but may be less frequent in the winter. Hamelia patens, commonly called firebush or scarlet bush, is a rapidly growing plant that may be used as a specimen, border, accent, hedge or mass planting. This beautiful native evergreen shrub, which is named for French botanist Henri Louis Duhamel du Monceau, may be found growing wild in Florida from Sumter County to South Florida. When you purchase your one-foot tall firebush plant, be aware that it will achieve a height of about five feet tall within a span of seven or eight months. This shrub may attain fifteen feet tall if you afford it some support such as a sturdy trellis. My firebush was blown over in Hurricane Irma and declined to the ground. It was pruned back and today it is over ten feet tall and full of butterflies and hummingbirds, which are attracted by the tubular orange-red flowers. In addition, the fruit-eating birds seem to be partial to the small glossy black fruit. The firebush is so named due to the clusters of the bright blossoms.
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The plant can be placed in a variety of well-drained soils and can be tolerant of South Florida’s lime bearing high pH soils. Firebush is propagated using cuttings, air layering or with fresh seeds.
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Firebush, which is in the family Rubiaceae is native to Florida. There is a dwarf form that appears in big box stores and is not a native. Although they are related, the dwarf firebush is shorter in stature, has smooth leaves, and the foliage is a lighter, more yellow color. If temperatures plummet in the winter, your firebush may get killed back, but this plant is considered “root-hardy” and will usually come back rapidly in the spring. Firebush is a worthwhile shrub which needs to be used more often and will be a fine addition to your yard. My next selection is the sweet-scented and golden thryallis. These graceful shrubs produce flushes of lovely yellow flowers nearly year-round for a cheerful cottage garden appearance. Although thryallis can tolerate some shade, they like full sun for optimum flowering. They enjoy hardiness zones 9-11, but will be killed to the ground at about 25 degrees F. If killed to the ground, they will rapidly regrow in the spring. Thryallis is used for open, informal hedges, or sheared into formal hedges. If used as a hedge, remember the rule for pruning hedges: “Sheared plants often thin out at the bottom. Keep the bottom of your hedge slightly wider than the top to allow sunlight to reach the lower foliage.” This rule applies to all hedge plants. Thryallis is also utilized as a specimen, in a mass planting or grown in a container. It may be necessary to remove the leggy stems to give the plants a clean and manicured look. The stems of thryallis are a reddish color when young and the plant has light green leaves that, like the firebush, assume a bronze color in winter months. This lovely, aromatic shrub is drought tolerant, blooms most of the year and is easy to maintain. It is also a nice accompaniment to the firebush. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Another companion plant for use with the firebush is the American beautyberry, also known as French mulberry, sourbush or bunchberry. This outstanding shrub is used for mass plantings, as a specimen, accent or grown in a container. This versatile plant has served various purposes. Native Americans utilized the roots for the treatment of dizziness and stomach issues. Berries were added to treat colic. They also used American beautyberry for rheumatism and fever. Farmers were known to place crushed leaves beneath harnesses, providing a natural mosquito repellant for hard-working mules and horses. This application was borne out by the Agricultural Research Service indicating that two compounds, callicarpenal and intermedeol, contribute the repellant. The fast growing and hardy shrub possesses a lovely cascading growth habit reminiscent of a weeping willow. Its name, Callicarpa, means “beautiful fruit” in Greek. It certainly lives up to its name. In the springtime, the shrub bears tiny lilac-colored blossoms that give way to the fruit which is called a “drupe.” The drupes encircle the stems of the plant, making a shiny purple statement. These beautiful berry-like fruits do not escape the attention of animals like deer, fox, raccoon, black bear, squirrels, opossum and over forty species of songbirds. American beautyberry and its relatives, purple beautyberry and Japanese beautyberry, are low maintenance. Before I became a Master Gardener, I regularly cut back the three beautyberries in my yard. I no longer do this practice and they are now some of my favorite plants. They garner attention from other homeowners as well. You should definitely try these three worthwhile shrubs if you have enough room in your landscape for them. As an extra benefit, you get to treasure the songbirds, butterflies and hummingbirds which will visit your yard and reward you for your FloridaFriendly Landscaping™ selections. If you have questions regarding your landscape or becoming a Florida Master Gardener, you may call your local UF/IFAS Extension Service for help to find the answer. You can reach the UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Plant Clinic at 863-519-1041 or online at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk. The Plant Clinic is open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Florida Master Gardener Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible. An Equal Opportunity Institution.
Through your purchase of the Florida Agriculture License Plate, Florida Agriculture In The Classroom is able to provide: • Funds for school gardens • PreK–12 agriculture curriculum • Teacher and volunteer grants • Workshops and farm tours • Florida Agriculture Literacy Day • And much more! Visit www.agtag.org to learn more. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Buy the AgTag® $20 of your purchase helps educate our kids!
By Jack Payne If you want to pick a home-grown tomato from the produce bin, you better reach carefully – past the five Mexican imports for each one grown in the U.S.A. It wasn’t always like this. Less than a generation ago, U.S. farms supplied the majority of the tomatoes in U.S. markets. It’s the same story with strawberries, peppers, and blueberries. Why the change? Until recently, we explained it away as imports beating out local produce on price in a free market. To University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences economist Zhengfei Guan, the question was “How free?” To find out, he and his team of economists dug through government data. Mexican government data. It revealed that before you make a choice in the supermarket aisle, the Mexican government made choices to increase the likelihood that you’d buy cheap instead of American. It paid much of your cost by spending billions of pesos to help Mexican growers purchase irrigation systems, shade houses, genetic materials, and other tools. In other words, subsidies. International trade has winners and losers. U.S. growers sell a lot of corn and soybeans to Mexico, for example. The Mexican government has essentially conceded those commodities to American farmers. The government subsidies for other crops make it possible for Mexican growers to sell strawberries, blueberries, peppers, and tomatoes for essentially less than it costs to produce them – or at least to produce them in Florida.
These leaders have repeatedly turned to Guan to produce data on the food fight on Florida grocery store shelves. As recently as this month, the leaders were texting Guan for more as they visited federal offices to educate policy makers on the effects of Mexican government subsidies. Guan got them the data within an hour, while they were still on Capitol Hill. They also shared copies of Guan’s new published research that reveals the startling extent of how the price of a Mexican strawberry can be influenced as much by government ministers in Mexico City as by farmers in Michoacan. Guan’s previous work on agricultural trade with Mexico had already been shared with the White House and some of the highest-ranking U.S. trade officials. The stakes are high. The agriculture, food, and natural resource industry is Florida’s second-largest, accounting for about one in every five jobs in the state. An unfair playing field – whether strawberries or peppers grow on it -- threatens Floridians’ livelihoods. It exacts environmental costs in the extra carbon miles our food travels from abroad. And if we go too far down the road of outsourcing of our food supply, we could ultimately be handing over to others the choice of what we eat – or even whether we eat.
That doesn’t seem like free trade. It’s certainly not fair trade.
You can do your part by looking for food that carries the Fresh From Florida logo.
UF/IFAS provides the science behind how to grow food in Hillsborough County, Polk County, Southwest Florida, and beyond. It also provides the science behind the choices that consumers and governments make.
UF/IFAS agricultural economists will continue to support Florida by providing the science behind your choices while they’re still yours to make.
That science is called economics. UF/IFAS has a large Department of Food and Resource Economics that crunches numbers on Plant City strawberries, Polk County cattle, nurseries throughout the region, and much more. They’re the local agricultural economists for every Florida community where people make their living off the land. PAGE
Guan, who works at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Balm, is the go-to economist for Florida agricultural leaders who continue to track trade issues as the North American Free Trade Agreement turns into the U.S.-MexicoCanada Agreement.
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Jack Payne is the University of Florida’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources and leader of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Fishing Tampa Bay December 2018 Capt. Woody Gore
Snook: Moving water and a live well full of sardines and pinfish will work but don’t be surprised if you don’t drag a redfish or gator trout off the same broken bottom grass flats. If you’re wanting to snag that snook of a lifetime, especially with the heart-stopping action of a topwater lure, I would suggest tying on a MirrOlure Top Dog Jr. and walkthe-dog, letting it rattle across that same broken bottom grass flat. Soon you’ll witness the most incredible strike as a giant snook crashes your lure. But always remember that really big snook are females and probably full of eggs so handle with care. If you have to lift her out of the water do it gently then snap a quick photo, and return her gently back into the water reviving her slowly.
Mackerel: Finding them is fairly simple, just locate a spoil bar or in-
shore reef. Once you’re anchored up-tide from the reef or bar start pitching a few sardines into the water. If they are close it won’t take long before the feeding frenzy starts. Now using a 2/0 long-shank hook on a 50# leader tied to your 15# Seaguar braid on your spinning reel; nose hook a threadfin or sardine, toss it into the strike zone and hold on tight. Many folks don’t believe it but mackerel are good table fare. For those you keep, bleed them promptly getting them on ice quickly.
Redfish: The reds are still biting anything tossed in their direction and
should continue on the flats and around the mangroves. A variety of artificial lures are catching their share along with living shrimp, sardines, and pinfish. The key to finding redfish is fishing dark patchy bottoms, especially around schools of larger mullet. On flooding tides, most are holding close to or pushing back into mangrove shoreline. While chumming with live bait often works, tossing dead threadfins or cut bait up close and tight to the mangroves on flood tides usually brings them out to investigate.
Spotted Sea Trout: The big trout have started to show up on our flats
along with plenty of slot fish. Find a good grass flat with plenty of potholes, I usually refer to these flats as broken bottom flats, and start by working the edges of as many potholes as possible. Trout aren’t too picky and are a good species to hone your artificial lure skills. One good artificial is a DOA Measles shrimp under a popping cork; hook the shrimp like you would a live one, through the carapace or top of the head then cast it out and pop the cork. The popping sound draws the trout’s attention to the bait. Remember; take only what you plan on eating for supper because they do not freeze well. Sea trout are a fragile species and have a delicate slime coat, so please use wet hands or a de-hooker and not dry-hands, rags, or a landing net for the ones you plan to release.
Snapper: If you’re looking for some late summer fun, particularly for the youngsters, take them snapper fishing. Not only are these fish fun to catch but they are great eating. Small free-lined greenbacks or pieces of fresh shrimp around markers, bridges or rock piles will usually result in a limit of fish. If the tides a little strong, add enough split shot to keep the bait down 3-6 feet. Don’t forget a chum bag.
“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing”
813-477-3814
Captain Woody Gore is the area’s top outdoor fishing guide. Guiding and fishing the west central Florida areas for over fifty years; he offers world class fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories. Multi-boat Group Charters With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Captain Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Just tell him what you need and it’s done.
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Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)
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Visit his website at: WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com or give me a call at 813-477-3814 WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Prepare Now. Sign up for an On-Farm Readiness Review.
Are you FSMA compliant? The ďŹ rst Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule (PSR) compliance dates have arrived. Very large farms with average annual sales exceeding $500,000 in the last three years were required to be compliant with the PSR as of Jan. 26, 2018, with the exception of the water requirements. Sign up now to request a Free On-Farm Readiness Review, offered in partnership by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and University of Florida IFAS. The OFRR is an opportunity to receive on-farm education and technical assistance to help farms align practices with the PSR regulatory requirements.
For more information on FSMA and to sign up for an OFRR, visit FreshFromFlorida.com/FSMA or call (863) 578-1900.
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Business Up Front Tailor-Made Structures carries on family legacy by: Breanne Williams
Blake Bliss, son of Rick Bliss the “Pole Barn King,” is carrying on the family legacy following Rick’s retirement with his new company Tailor-Made Structures. Blake Bliss is carrying on his father’s legacy of building high quality and affordable structures with his new company Tailor-Made Structures, LLC. His father, Rick, was dubbed the “Pole Barn King” and after more than 30 years he retired. His son began learning the ins and outs of the industry when he was 16 years old. But even as a young child he said he remembers lending a helping hand whenever there was a chance. “I have pictures of me standing on a ladder with my dad when I was two years old,” Bliss said. “I’ve always known I was going to build barns and I’ve been doing this my whole life. We have a couple of the same crews as before and they’re building the same barns they were under my father’s company. Rick was known for building a quality barn for a quality price. That’s our motto too.” Right out of high school Bliss began his journey to becoming a legendary general contractor. As a teenager he was working on the job site constructing a variety of barns and shortly after he became a foreman. From there he shifted into a consulting role to help customers conceptualize their dream project. He said his plethora of experience allows him to help clients walk away with a structure “that’s Tailor-Made to fit their life.” Bliss said traveling for “the right job” is no problem for his company, but they predominately work around the Hillsborough, Polk, Pasco and Hernando County areas. They build everything from custom horse stables to open and enclosed pole barns. Bliss even built the intricately designed building his office currently resides in. He’s tackled projects for LEGOLAND and Safari Wilderness as well as constructed some intricately designed barns throughout the area that are being used for elaborate wedding venues. Some of his more notable clients have been Wishing Well Barn in Plant City and Cross Creek Ranch in Dover. His roots, however, go back to building sturdy, long-lasting barns for farmers and ranchers. He has built countless horse barns and pole barns and said the quality of the material they use always sets their products apart. “Over the years, I’ve been doing this literally my entire life, but over the years I’ve had thousands of satisfied customers,” Bliss said. “It’s my personal mission to make sure that every single project I have my hands on is perfect, is exactly what they need and want.”
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Clients sometimes ask Bliss to build an open structure and then later they have him come back through and enclose it, making one structure last through a variety of services. He said he’ll even come back 10 years later and transition the barn into living quarters if that’s what the customer wants. His
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teams can do it all and he vows his products are made to last. With the horse barns, Bliss said he always uses tongue-andgroove boards to add a sturdiness to all of the stalls. Too often he sees horses destroy the weaker products others may use to construct the barns and he said it simply is not logical or affordable to build something that will be in constant need of repair. Everything is done in house with Tailor-Made. When they build a horse barn they fabricate their own stalls, ensuring their quality of work will be consistent throughout the entire structure. Word is quickly spreading about Bliss embarking on his own path. Through word of mouth, many of the farmers and other clients have recommended him for barns and the residential units. Slowly the community is beginning to take note that Tailor-Made Structures is becoming a staple in the market. “Our guys in that work in this field are what set us apart,” Bliss said. “They’ve been in this field so long, they’re experts and the quality of their work is unmatched. Most of the foremen have been doing it for at least 20 to 25 years. You can do the exact same size project right next door and there will be little things we will be prepared for that newer people just haven’t learned to anticipate. Experience is everything in this business and our products speak for themselves.” Whenever a customer decides they wish to have Tailor-Made Structures build their project Bliss likes to take the time to sit down and map out exactly what it is the customer truly needs. He said taking the time to really understand the demands of the customer and also the property the structure will be erected on helps ensure every customer walks away satisfied. “I really like to sit down with the customers and find out exactly what they want, what they like and don’t like,” Bliss said. “Pole barns may be very similar in how they’re made, but those little details really make a huge difference in the final product. We make sure every single thing is perfect.” He said his teams are detailed and thorough, but fast. The combined years of experience have allowed them to get construction down to a science. A simple pole barn normally can be done under a week and enclosed barns take about two to four weeks. They also frequently add to existing venues to expand the size and offerings of the structure. For more information about Tailor-Made Structures visit its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram page or its website tailormadestructures.com. There are a variety of pictures of past projects online. For more information or to schedule an appointment give Bliss a call at 813-751-7770. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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By Jim Frankowiak
From the Ground Up! Each of our farmers and ranchers has a story to tell. For grower, Tom Pospichal, that story is one about turning potential into productivity. Nearly 15 years ago, while working for The Mosaic Company®, Pospichal saw an opportunity to experiment on a five-acre parcel of reclaimed land in Bowling Green to see how productive it might be for agricultural purposes.
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Pospichal noticed that the soil type on this particular piece of property is heavier due to a high concentration of clay particles mixed in with sand particles. What is beneficial about this soil type is that is has a higher water-holding capacity than the original, native soils.
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For commodities, such as sod, the high waterholding capacity in combination with a dense soil type allows the root structure to not only use water efficiently but when the sod is harvested, the intertwined root system and soil remains intact. Consumers have shared that they like a sod product that remains intact like this. Since then, Pospichal has grown Mosaic’s sod enterprise into a 300-acre operation and he cares deeply for Florida’s environment. Having devoted the beginning of his career by working in Extension, he understands agriculture’s responsibility to be sustainable with natural resources. As a Land Utilization Manager for The Mosaic Company®, his work directly relates to environWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
mental restoration. Pospichal utilizes a variety of the Florida Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services Best Management Practices, or BMPs, to reduce water and nutrient use and improve water quality throughout his sod operation. By definition, BMPs are practical, cost-effective actions that agricultural producers can take to conserve water and reduce the amount of pesticides, fertilizers, animal waste and other pollutants entering our water resources.
Florida Farm Bureau proudly awarded Pospichal with a 2017 CARES designation and sign. As the voice of agriculture, it is important that Florida Farm Bureau Federation shares our farmers/ ranchers stories of environmental stewardship. Pospichal is an outstanding example of a farmer who cares
One BMP that has proven highly effective in reducing water use is center pivot irrigation. This irrigation method allows Pospichal to apply water in a uniform matter across each sod field and only apply what is needed. With this BMP, Pospichal is able to provide exactly .25 inches of water when needed. Another successful BMP implemented has been native field borders. By planting eucalyptus trees around the perimeter of each sod field, wind protection is provided, deterring wind-borne diseases and creating wildlife habitats. One of the ways Pospichal works with the community is by using a surface water pond that allows the city of Bowling Green’s discharge to drain to this pond. The water is then recycled onto the sod fields. Implementing a wide variety of BMPs to protect the environment and innovating parcels of reclaimed land into agricultural operations is why
Turning Land Into Legacy Phosphate and farming have always gone hand in hand. And at Mosaic, we’re making sure that relationship continues for generations to come. After mining, our sites are carefully reclaimed and returned to productive use—as citrus groves, cattle pastures and more.
// Learn more at MosaicCo.com
Reclaimed pasture at Mosaic’s Fort Meade mine
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• Madame Tallien, a member of Emperor Napoleon’s court, bathed in the juice of fresh strawberries, squashing 22 pounds into the bathtub each time. Like most citizens in the 1700s, she did not bathe daily or even weekly. That strawberry bath may have taken place once a year. • According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans eat an average of 3.4 pounds of fresh strawberries every year. • Unlike some other fruits, strawberries don’t continue to ripen after being picked • The impressive polyphenolic and antioxidant content of strawberries make them good for improving the immune system, preventing against various types of cancers and for reducing the signs of premature aging. • There is a legend that strawberries were named in the nineteenthcentury by English children who picked the fruit, strung them on grass straws and sold them as “Straws of berries”. • Brushing your teeth is important, but eating strawberries can actually help whiten your teeth. The acids in the fruit help to remove stains. • Ancient Romans used the berries to treat everything from depression to fever and sore throats.
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Sometimes at the end of the day I feel like it was a really bad one. Then I read in the papers about other people, and realize it wasn’t so bad after all. For instances, two animal rights protesters were protesting at the cruelty of sending pigs to a slaughterhouse in Germany. Suddenly the pigs, all two thousand of them, escaped through a broken fence stampeded, trampling the to protesters to death. I read a police report from Argentina where a 25-yearold man pushed his 21-year-old wife out of an eighth floor window after an argument, but her fall was broken when her legs became entangled in power lines below. A police spokesperson to the state-run newspaper said when the husband saw the woman dangling beneath him he apparently tried to throw himself on top to finish her off. He missed, however, and fell to his death. Meanwhile, the woman managed to swing over to a nearby balcony and was saved. I watched the next man in line sign the receipt for his credit card purchase, and the same clerk noticed that he had never signed his name on the back of the card. She informed him that she could not complete the transaction unless the card was signed. He asked her why, and she explained that it was necessary to compare the signature on the credit card with the signature he had just signed on the receipt. He signed the credit card in front of her. She carefully compared the signature to the one he had just signed on the receipt. She looked up at him and said, “O.K. they match.”
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There are many transmission lines that crisscross Connecticut. Transmission towers of various constructions description hold up these power lines. Those most commonly installed near urban areas are called “metal ornamental towers” (supposedly prettier than wood towers). Sometimes the adventurous climb the towers in order to enjoy the view and the night air. Most stay away from the wires, and when they get bored, come back down. Apparently, a man who was forlorn after a recent spat with his girlfriend needed some fresh air to clear his head and decided to climb a tower. He stopped for a six-pack to help clear his thoughts, went to a tower south of Hartford, next to I-91, and climbed it. Public Service employees later pieced the story together. The man sat there 60 feet above the highway, drank his beer and consoled his bruised ego. After five beers,
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he needed to do what people often need to do after five beers. It being such a long hike down, he unzipped and did his business right there off the tower. Electricity is a funny thing. One doesn’t need to touch a wire in order to get shocked. Depending on conditions, 115,000 volt lines, like those supported by the tower, could shock a person as far away as six feet. The guys at the power company noted a momentary outage on this line and sent repairmen to see if there was any damage. When they got to the scene of the accident, they found a very dead person, what was left of his private parts smoking and a single beer left on top of the tower. I have collected some funny news headlines over the years. The most recent was “Unopposed Candidate Wins.” Others include “Man Run Over by Freight Train Dies,” “Larger Kangaroos Leap Farther,” “Stolen Paintings Found by Tree,” ”Red tape Holds Up New Bridge,” “Police Found Safe Hidden Under Bed,” “Lawmen From Mexico Barbeque Guests,” “Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors” and “Blind Woman Gets New Kidney From Daughter She Hasn’t Seen in Years.” Check out the classified ads. They can be funny too! “Free Puppies: ½ Cocker Spaniel – ½ Sneaky Neighbor’s dog. Bill’s Septic Cleaning –“We Haul American Made Products,” Whirlpool Washer $100, owned by clean bachelor who seldom washed,” “Nice Parachute – Never Opened –Used Once – Slightly Stained.” I love the excerpts from letters sent to landlords: “This is to let you know that there is a smell coming from the man next door,” “I am writing in behalf of my sink, which is running away from the wall,” “Will you please send someone to mend our cracked sidewalk. Yesterday my wife tripped on it and is now pregnant.” And the best one of all; ”I request your permission to remove my drawers in the kitchen.” I’ll close with this story. When a man attempted to siphon gasoline from a motor home parked near Disney, he got much more than he bargained for. Police arrived at the scene to find an ill man curled up next to the back wheel of the RV. The police report said that the man admitted to trying to steal gasoline and plugged his hose into the motor home’s sewage tank by mistake. The owner of the RV declined to press charges, saying that it was the best laugh he had ever had. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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SHINING A LIGHT ON ONE OF FLORIDA’S RELATIVELY UNKOWN,
BUT IMPORTANT INDUSTRIES By Jim Frankowiak | Photos by Dusty Holley
It’s undoubtedly no surprise to most, if not all, of you that Florida is the top travel destination in the world, relying on tourism to drive its economy more than any other state in the U.S. As of 2015, Florida had the fourth largest economy in this country behind California, Texas and New York with a real gross domestic product (GDP) of $840 billion. A record 116.5 million tourists visited Florida in 2017. As of 2015, Florida’s Department of Economic Opportunity estimated that of the 9.1 million people employed in Florida, 1.1 million have jobs related to the tourism industry, which contributed $51 billion to the state’s GDP. In addition to tourism, there are five other industries driving Florida’s GDP growth: Agriculture, International Trade, Aerospace and Aviation, Life Sciences and Financial Services. Agriculture is the industry that deserves recognition given the two-million people who are employed by that industry which contributes more than $104 billion to the state’s economy annually. Additionally, there is a segment of that industry that is
not well known, but has a long and rich history and truly reflects innovation and a growing importance domestically and globally. That’s the Florida beef industry, in particular cowcalf operations. A cow-calf operation is a method of raising beef cattle in which a permanent herd of cows is kept by a farmer or rancher to produce calves for later sale. Cow-calf operations are one of the key aspects of the beef industry in the United States. The five general segments of the industry start with seed stock, followed by cow-calf operations, feedlots, slaughter/ processing followed by further processing on to distribution to retail outlets or restaurants. Without cow-calf operations, there would be no beef industry, making such operations of critical importance. Cow-calf farm and ranch herds consist mostly of adult female cows, their calves and young females, called heifers, which will produce calves once they are of breeding age. Some operations may retain ownership of their steers until they reach slaughter weight, others sell them as weaned calves, as is typically the case here in Florida. Those operations may have herd bulls and utilize natural mating, while others may rely on artificial insemination. The former is most common in Florida. Calves sold after weaning may go directly to a feedlot or enter a “stocker” operation where they grow frame and some weight for a few months, spreading out the supply of animals entering feedlots. Older cows and bulls are also sold to slaughter after their reproductive years have ended. Cow-calf operators have options available related to how and when they sell their calves. This helps balance supply and demand helping to assure appropriate returns and the ongoing success of these endeavors.
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What does that have to do with Florida, you might ask. And the answer is, a lot. Statistics released earlier this year by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) after compilation by CattleFax through a voluntary national survey show that Florida is home to nine of the top 25 cow-calf producing operations in the U.S. That’s more than any other state in the
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country. Texas is next with four of the top 25 cow-calf operations in the country. Those nine in Florida include Deseret Cattle & Citrus in St. Cloud, Lykes Brothers, Inc., Okeechobee, Rollins Ranches, Okeechobee, Lightsey Cattle Co. in Lake Wales; the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc., Brighton, Williamson Cattle Co., Okeechobee; Adams Ranch, Inc., Ft. Pierce, Immokalee Ranch, Immokalee; and Ryals Cattle Co., Arcadia. The Florida beef story began in 1521 when Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon returned to Florida after discovering the area in 1513. When he returned, he brought horses and seven Andalusian cattle, the ancestors of the Florida Cracker Cattle. De Leon knew he had found pastureland in what would become Florida and turned that land into America’s oldest cattleraising state. Some of those original “immigrant” Andalusian cattle escaped their Spanish owners and survived on their own becoming the basis of our modern cattle industry. While they are small in size they were valuable because they could survive in wilderness areas and the hot and muggy climate. Since that time, in particular the last 75 years, Florida cattlemen have done a great deal to enhance the quality of cattle bred and raised in the state. This was done via cross breeding that retained desired qualities of each breed. Among those breeds were Angus, Hereford and Short Horns, also known as English breeds, along with Continental breeds like the French Charolaise and Limousine and Swiss Simmental, and probably most importantly, the bos inducus breeds, especially Brahman. Initially that involved cross breeding the Florida Cracker Cattle that descended from the Andalusian cattle with Brahmans, adding size and muscling while maintaining their hardiness. Then came the English and Continental breeds which created the America breeds such as the Braford, a mix of 3/8 Brahman and 5/8 Hereford and Brangus comprised of 3/8 Brahman and 5/8 Angus; and Santa Gertrudis which mixed Brahman and Short Horn. Each of those breeds when crossed brought sought after attributes. The Continental Breed reflected leaner and bigger cattle with more muscle like beasts of burden, while the English Breeds offered small and fatter cattle with better overall meat quality A product of this cross breeding is referred to as hybrid vigor or put another way; the resulting attributes are greater than
simply the sum of the attributes of the involved crossed breeds. Sought after characteristics include heat tolerance, high meat quality and fast growth. Cross-breeding efforts continue. This is important as the demand for beef continues to escalate not only domestically, but globally, as well. Global demand for beef continues to grow as the world’s population increases along with economic advances in countries whose residents previously could not afford to buy beef products, but now can. While this is positive for the beef industry, it presents other challenges, particularly here in Florida. When de Leon introduced those six head of Andalusian cattle into what is now Florida, he was taken by the vast pasturelands. Those pasturelands continue to exist, but ongoing urbanization and other threats could have an impact on Florida’s important role in the global beef industry. Cow-calf operations are land intensive, and they are beneficial to the sustainability of the environment, protection of water quality and wildlife habitats. They also bring a net profit to county governments from a tax standpoint. Even though cow-calf operations have what is known as a “greenbelt” property tax designation which is less than the tax on developed lands, the county services required for such lands and those who reside on them is markedly below the demands and costs associated services for residents residing on developed or urbanized lands. When comparing the two types of land, lower taxes from pasturelands result in a “profit” for county government. As a consequence, it is incumbent upon members of Florida’s beef industry to continue to take the necessary steps to make policymakers and residents of Florida aware of the benefits and contributions the industry makes to the Sunshine State, and its increasing importance to the global marketplace. The next time you see a Florida “Cracker” cowboy, typically a hearty fellow with jeans, a big belt buckle and Stetson-like hat, there’s a good chance he’s associated with one of Florida’s cow-calf operations helping to assure the growing global beef demands are met. While doing so, they carefully steward the lands to the benefit of wildlife and native plant habitat, recharge the aquifer and foster carbon recovery. Add to that thousands of jobs and a growing economic impact. For more information about Florida’s cattle industry, visit the Florida Cattlemen’s Association website: www.floridacattlemen.org.
(A special “Thank You” from IN THE FIELD to Dusty Holley, Director of Field Services for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association for his help with this article and the photos of some of Florida’s cow-calf operations.) INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Part 50 By Ginny Mink
Ornamental Gardening in Florida We meet again for a venture on the Literary Time Machine as we return our botanical interests to that of 1926 via Mr. Charles Torrey Simpson’s book, Ornamental Gardening in Florida. We closed out our last voyage focused on the wonderful gardenia. And this trip, we will open up the world of ornamental gardening with a bit about the hibiscus. Mr. Simpson writes about this well-known and well-loved plant, “(It’s) probably native to South China (and) is easily the queen of flowers in South Florida. It is grown everywhere by the lowliest… and the millionaire and is at home in all soils from high pineland to marl and muck, sending out its great, flaunting blossoms to the sun and breeze.” Interestingly enough he continues, “The U.S. Department of Agriculture has lately sent to Florida a number of varieties from Hawaii, some of which are quite different from any we had before. H. mutabilis has pale flowers in the morning that become deep pink later in the day. H. schizopetalus has slender, drooping branches and long stemmed, pendulous flowers whose reflexed petals are beautifully fringed. H. syriacus, Rose of Sharon, Althea, is a hardy species that may be grown anywhere in the north half of the state.” Essentially, we enjoy such a wide array of hibiscus varieties because the US Department of Agriculture, in the 1920s, imported them here. Incredible! His list continues on, mentioning hydrangea and a variety of different “jessamines,” which we learned on our last voyage means jasmines. We will stop at his mention of the crape myrtle as we have a bit of an affinity for it. He writes, “L. indica, the Common crape myrtle, is now believed to be a native of China and hardy well up into Georgia and the Carolinas. In the northern two-thirds of Florida it is one of the commonest ornaments of yards and gardens and it blooms throughout the warmer part of the year. The best known form has a purplish pink flower and there is a white, a carmine and a purple variety.” Onward, we arrive at Lippia citridora. He explains, “Lemon verbena is a dear, old-fashioned shrub with lanceolate leaves in whorls that give out a delicious fragrance when disturbed. I have tried it here several times and it has utterly failed but it might be that it would succeed farther up the state.” Reading that a shrub is old-fashioned, from a book written nearly a hundred years ago, makes us chuckle. But we also had to wonder if lemon verbena grows anywhere near us.
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We found an article on Mother Earth Living’s website entitled: Growing Lemon Verbena and Keeping it Alive. There we learned that Mr. Simpson’s scientific name for the plant has been changed. It is now known as Aloysia triphylla. As we
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read the article, we discovered that, “North American home gardeners who try to grow this tender, wonderfully fragrant perennial herb may succeed more often than they fail but a large number…develop a deep sense of frustration and guilt when they repeatedly ‘commit herbicide’.”² That information leads us to believe that we probably shouldn’t delve our notso-green thumbs into this particular herb. But, if you think you’re up for the challenge, it grows best in well-drained, loose soil that has a lot of organic matter within it. You are better off watering less than watering more because it is subject to root rot when it’s too wet.² Hopefully that will get you going! Our last stop brings us to Malvaviscus. The name is both unfamiliar and intriguing. Mr. Simpson pens, “Formerly we attempted to cultivate the old-fashioned M. arboreus in Lower Florida but though it sometimes succeeded fairly well it often grew poorly and amounted to but little. Recently we have introduced M. grandifloras and I know no plant in our part of the state that is more completely at home than it is…with large, dropping, scarlet flowers, each three inches long. I have a specimen that has been constantly in bloom for three years, filling up until it was a sheet of color, then slacking off. I like such plants, things that take care of themselves, that it is not necessary to walk the floor with nights.” Plants that take care of themselves are right up our alley and since this one was completely new to us, we had to look it up. We love Dave’s Garden as a resource, so while there we discovered that the images were of a familiar plant. Apparently, its common name is Mexican Turk’s Cap.³ To us, it’s reminiscent of droopy hibiscus flowers. But we’re sure you will know exactly what we’re talking about when you see the pictures. And, that, dear friends, will conclude this month’s excursion. We hope you have found some valuable tidbits of gardening information and we will look forward to our next adventure. Until then, 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. 168-171). ²Merrill, D. (1993). Growing Lemon Verbena and Keeping it Alive. Mother Earth Living (June/July 1993). https://www.motherearthliving.com/gardening/plant-profile/growing-lemon-verbena-zmaz93jjzgoe ³Mexican Turk’s Cap. Dave’s Garden. https://davesgarden. com/guides/pf/go/1819/#b Photo Credit: Cooper, Paul. (2014). Turk’s Cap. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/p8YWHi Jahjahau. (2009). Hibiscus. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/8F3iHw WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Florida
Coffee By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science Many of us think of coffee as a necessity pick-me-up to start the day. Did you know coffee can be grown in Florida? A major horticultural crop, coffee (Coffea arabica) is grown commercially in over 80 countries, including Central America, the Caribbean, Brazil, Africa, Madagascar, and Indonesia. The main types of coffee plants are Arabic, Robusta, and Liberica and hybrids of these. In Florida, the Arabica type grows the best. Much like cacoa beans, coffee plants grow best under shade and within 30 degrees north and south of the equator. They thrive in high humidity and low wind conditions and can live up to 60 to 70 years. In South Florida, white flower buds appear in summer and the coffee berries ripen and turn red in the fall. Surrounding the bean is a sweet fruit pulp. Once the berries are ripe, they are ready to be harvested from the tree. The process of preparing coffee beans is similar to that of cacao beans. Remove the seeds from the berries and ferment in water for several days. Dry the seeds in the sun for two days, then roast in your oven. Separate the beans from the hulls, then grind in a coffee grinder.
Nutritional Profile Current research has pointed to many health benefits of coffee and more benefits continue to be discovered. Ground coffee contains very few calories, a good punch of caffeine, and a myriad of benefits including its well-known ability to improve alertness. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one cup of brewed coffee from coffee grounds (238 g) contains 2.4 calories, 0.3 g of protein, 0 g of fat or carbohydrate and 95mg of caffeine. It provides 11% of the Daily Reference Intake for riboflavin, 6% for pantothenic acid, 3% for potassium and manganese, as well as small amounts of magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and folate.
Health Benefits
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Coffee has not been shown to be associated with any increased risk of heart disease or cancer, as it was once thought. In fact, recent studies have found an association between moderate coffee consumption and decreased cardiovascular and overall mortality. Coffee may have a wide variety
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of health benefits, including protection against Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes and liver disease, including cirrhosis. Coffee may also improve cognitive function and decrease the risk of depression. Research studies have found that those who drink coffee may have a reduced risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. However, excessive coffee intake (4 cups or more per day) is linked to nervousness and faster heart rate. Coffee has also been linked to lower levels of some cancers, including uterine and liver, as well as decreased risk of gout.
How to Select and Store Choose the least processed coffee you can find. It is fairly easy to find whole coffee beans that you can grind at home. What you add to your brewed coffee is important. Cream and sugar can add a lot of calories, fat, and refined sugar. Low fat milk is a healthier choice.
How to Enjoy Coffee is delicious brewed from the coffee grounds. This popular beverage can be brewed in multiple ways, including an electric coffee maker, French press, or drip style through cheesecloth. It can be purchased as light, medium, or dark roast, as well as decaffeinated. Other ways to enjoy coffee include: • Pour coffee into ice cube tray and freeze • Blend coffee into any smoothie • Use in dessert recipes such as tiramisu • Use in chocolate recipes for an extra depth of flavor • Ground coffee can be used in a meat seasoning or in savory dishes Enjoy the health benefits and delicious flavor of fresh coffee today. After drinking the coffee, keep the grounds for composting and fertilizing your plants. Selected References https://www.fairchildgarden.org http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
NEWS BRIEFS
Compiled by Jim Frankowiak
FLORIDA FARM BUREAU OFFERS CONSERVATION EASEMENT GUIDE Florida Farm Bureau has created “Farmland Amenity Protection – A Brief Guide to Conservation Easements – to help farmers consider the amenities of land ownership. To access the guide, visit: www.floridafarmbureau.org and click on ‘Media & Publications’ and then ‘Publications’ in the drop down menu.
EWP AIDS LANDOWNERS AFTER NATURAL DISASTERS The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is reminding landowners if their area suffers damaged, the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) can help relieve imminent hazards to life and property. This includes damage caused by hurricanes, floods, fires and win-storms. Aid may include financial and technical assistance. More information on EWP is available at the USDA Plant City Service Office, 201 South Collins Street, Suite 201. The telephone number is 813-752-1474.
FOOD AND FARMS FACTS JUNIOR EDITION NOW AVAILABLE The new Food and Farm Facts Junior edition, produced by the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, is now available. Developed for young students from kindergarten through third grade, the 12-page book explains farming practices to young learners. Copies of Food and Farm Facts Junior may be purchased for $3 each. Orders of 25 or more copies have a reduced price of $2 each. Visit http://bit.ly/FFFJR18 for additional information and to order copies.
UF/IFAS Sets Record for Research Support The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) received a record $166 million in funding for research projects this fiscal year. Funds were received from federal, state and private sources for programs that include feeding a hungry world, improving nutrition among at-risk populations and ensuring sufficient safe water for a growing global population. UF/IFAS has as its mission “to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life.”
WETLAND RESERVE EASEMENT APPLICATION DEADLINE: DECEMBER 31
Agricultural landowners have until December 31 to apply for a Wetland Reserve Easement for fiscal 2019 funding.
NEW USDA NATURAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE DISCOVERY TOOL The USDA recently launched a disaster discovery tool through its new website – farmers.gov – that takes agricultural producers through five questions to help them identify personalized results as to which USDA disaster assistance programs can help them recover after a natural disaster.
Mild Winter Forecast by NOAA The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a mild winter for most of the U.S. However, the Southeast is expected to see wetter-than-normal conditions during the period December through February. More information is available at: http://www.noaa.gov.
USDA UPDATES NATIONAL IPM ROAD MAP The USDA has announced an update of the National Road Map for Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM is a science-based, sustainable decision-making process that uses information on pest biology, environmental data and technology to manage pest damage in a way that minimizes both economic costs and risks to people, property and the environment. The Road Map provides guidance to the IPM community on the adoption of effective, economical and safe IPM practices and on the development of new practices where needed. Added information is available by visiting usda.gov and searching for “IPM national road map”.
Cattle • Truck Farming • Citrus • Game Hunting
1401 Sam Keen Road Lake, Wales, FL 33853 863.692.1013 We Support Agriculture. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides financial and technical assistance for landowners to purchase and restore wetlands, protect wildlife habitat and recharge groundwater on their property. Extra selection points are given to applications for easement located within areas designated for restoring longleaf pine forests and quail and gopher tortoise populations. Questions may be directed to Crenel Francis (352-338-9508) or Charles Shinn (352-3741522), email: charles.shinn@ffbf.org.
Triplets Triplets Triplets
By Melissa Nichols In 2010 my children began a new journey in the world of show cattle. We invested in two heifers, which quickly grew to be four and before I knew it we needed more land and no longer had just show cattle, now we had retired show cattle along with some that were strictly for production purposes. In this journey we have had great successes, some very hard losses and we have learned a lot about the industry, about animal nutrition, health and even illness. As our herd grew we brought better quality genetics in from out of state, Oklahoma, Texas, South Dakota and Indiana. We needed a way to multiply the better quality calves at a faster rate than just one per year. At this time we invested in some cows that we truly only planned on using as recipient cattle, ones that we would flush embryos from the better quality cattle and let the “recips� be the surrogate and carry the calf as her own with the DNA actually matching the donor cow and bull she was bred to.
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Last year we decided to let one recip, who had twins two years ago, be bred naturally by our bull. We had a hard time getting cattle bred and just decided to let everything be naturally bred. She had received no hormones or anything to bring her into a heat cycle, she simply was placed out in a pas-
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ture and bred by our bull. We noticed she was large but we figured she was maybe having twins again, which in itself would be a very odd occurrence but even more odd since she has had them before. About a week before her expected due date she delivered triplet identical bull calves. When I arrived at the pasture I thought I was seeing things as I found three babies. Unfortunately one of the calves, actually the biggest one, did not survive, but it brought me to some long and in-depth research. What are the actual odds of having triplet calves born? The odds are 1 in 100,000, the odds of having all one sex identical triplet calves born is 1 in 700,000, and increasing the odds is a cow having twins and then triplets. With multiples in cattle comes lots of problems, if the calves are not all the same sex the female calves are called Freemartins. They are unable to breed and usually missing part of their reproductive tract or have ovaries that do not function, therefore, sadly they have little use to the producer except for meat purposes as they get older. A Freemartin does not affect the bull calves, they are able to breed as normal. 2018
On top of the mixed sex/Freemartin issue with multiple births is the fact that few cows can sustain two calves on their own and that hurts weaning weights and can make them weaker and more prone to illness. Many end up culling a calf and bottle feeding it in hopes to get one healthy. In my situation the cow could have sustained all three and weaned off 500 lbs 6 month. We truly felt like we hit the lotto with having the two bull calves survive especially being early and only weighing 45lbs each. The largest one was 60 lbs and he was the one who did not survive. Nature is a funny thing and sometimes it truly gives us a run for our money, but we will handle whatever is thrown at us. A few tips if you ever experience multiple births, give both (all) calves supplementary colostrum if possible; it is possible that not all will receive adequate colostrum. Give mom and calves a shot of injectable mineral to help them sustain and bounce back, be prepared to bottle feed one if momma cannot keep up with two and creep feeding these calves who may not be getting everything from the momma will definitely help increase weaning weight. Even though some say multiples are a curse, nothing is cuter than twin or triplet baby calves running around a pasture. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
FFVA NAMES MIKE JOYNER TO REPLACE RETIRING PRESIDENT MIKE STUART years. Prior to his association with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Joyner represented clients throughout Florida and the U. S. before the Florida Legislature and state regulatory agencies. He also served in public affairs and environmental affairs positions with The St. Joe Company and Progress Energy, which is now known as Duke Energy. Joyner also served as chief of staff for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). “Mike is uniquely equipped to lead FFVA into the future,” said Orsenigo. “Given his experience and leadership in Florida agriculture, he has a keen grasp of the issues that Florida producers face in growing and marketing their crops. We’re looking forward to having him at the helm of our association.” Mike Joyner has been named the new president of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA), according to FFVA Chairman Paul R. Orsenigo. Joyner will replace retiring FFVA President Mike Stuart. The appointment was effective October 15. Joyner most recently served as Assistant Commissioner of Agriculture and chief of staff for Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, a position he held for the past eight
Joyner is an alumnus of the University of Florida with an undergraduate degree in Agriculture, Food and Resource Economics. He and his wife, Alicia, have two daughters.
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“I’m excited to join this association, which I’ve admired for many years,” said Joyner. “The positive influence that FFVA’s advocacy work has had on public policy is impressive. There are challenges ahead for agriculture, which means that advocacy is more important than ever.”
The Poor Porker
Photos by Jackie Benitez
Few venues in existence are as chic and bohemian as The Poor Porker. It’s beignets have developed a cult following and its new taqueria is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Walking into The Poor Porker evokes nearly the same whimsical sensations as those harbored by Mary Lennox when she stumbled into her secret garden for the first time.
onion and cilantro as well as the Dorado, which is a vegan taco with potato and vegan queso. At press time the tacos were $4 each or two for $7.
Known by many as 801 East Main, the open-air cafe is a hidden gem of Polk County known for its simple, but scrumptious menu and its eclectic decor. While surrounded by bustling Lakeland, The Poor Porker feels like its own reclusive getaway. As you cross the gate into the courtyard it is as if you stepped through a portal to a hip cafe in southern California. Robyn Wilson and her talented team grew the ever-expanding brand from a beignet truck into a full-fledged venue. The fluffy beignets drew in the loyal fan base while the new taqueria, beloved Bar Calexico and revolving lineup of events has made it a staple in the local community.
Whenever you order, the tacos are made fresh for each customer and come with a large variety of optional toppings on the side like pico de gallo, cabbage and limes. The tacos are a new offering for the business so if you get there when it first starts firing up the grill be prepared for a line.
The beignets are made fresh for each customer and are reminiscent of the fluffy creations found in New Orleans at Cafe du Monde. Customers can always find the classic powdered beignets, $5, and the brown butter caramel beignets, $6, on the menu as well special toppings for the dessert. However, as the seasons change the company features innovative recipes like the American Pie, beignets with homemade apple pie filling, caramel, gram cracker crumble and powdered sugar, and the Blueberry Cobbler, beignets with homemade blueberry reduction and a buttery crumble. To wash it down nothing beats the campfire cold brew, $4 and $6, featured at the beignet cart. The rich organic coffee is hickory smoked and tastes like a toasted slice of the outdoors. It’s bold and sweet and well worth a trip in and of itself. The campfire brew is also in a hot coffee, $3 and $4, for those rare mornings when it isn’t 90 degrees in Florida. If you’ve already had your daily limit of caffeine the rosemary lemonade, $4 and $5, is a refreshing touch to add to the meal. Right beside the legendary beignet cart is the new Las Espinas taco truck and taqueria.
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The menu ranges from breakfast tacos with chorizo, eggs and potato to Bistec Adobado with stead, cilantro and onion. A crowd favorite seemed to be the Achiote taco with chicken,
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Half of the appeal of The Poor Porker is its aesthetic. If you come during special events the venue can be a packed house. During normal hours, however, it’s easy to slip into a hidden corner and enjoy your tacos and beignets. A teepee, converted vintage travel trailer, wooden tables and chairs and a variety of other one-of-a-kind setups are strewn throughout the courtyard for picture worthy outdoor seating. If you head inside toward Bar Calexico you can easily curl up with your friends on comfortable, vintage couches or enjoy the shade at a number of the indoor tables. Take time to look around and see how many unique pieces of decor you can spot. The abundance of succulents practically scream to be featured on your Instagram feed, but the true gems are scattered throughout the property. Personal favorites include the Fantastic Mr. Fox statue and the portrait of Wilson’s pug who is affectionately called Wads. Wads frequently makes an appearance and will spend some time meandering among the guests. If coming to a concert, karaoke night or themed party, plan to arrive well in advance to get a spot. Bar Calexico has a variety of beers, ciders, wines and even Soju. During normal hours feel free to bring your pup and enjoy a leisurely outing in one of the chicest venues around.
The Poor Porker Location: 801 East Main St., Lakeland Fl 33801 Price: $-$$ Hours: Thursday: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday: 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday: 8 a.m. to 12 a.m., Sunday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2018
Thankfully, ’Tis the season for Thanksgiving! by John Dicks
Finally, it’s the season for Thanksgiving! For many, it’s their favorite time of year.
Anyway, that’s the way it’s supposed to work out. I’ve got confidence that it will again, too.
That recognition of excitement in the air is true even if you’re reading this after our official Thanksgiving holiday, which is marked on our calendar unusually early this year as the 22nd day of November.
Never bet against the future of America! You’ll always lose when you do, even when things seem bleak and at their darkest.
Technically, of course, Thanksgiving was earmarked by Congress, many, many years ago, to be observed on the fourth Thursday of November, which makes the one we celebrate in 2018 as the earliest possible date it could be (and leaving it for next year to be the very latest to fall on November 28). Skipping past, for only a moment, the most obvious facets of life for which to be thankful, mainly family, friends and a hopeful future, the date upon which the holiday falls is providing much thanks from retailers across the country. Imagine the glee of CEO’s staring at the calendar, recognizing that this year offers essentially an entire additional week of Christmas shopping than is provided next year. My prediction is that if any economic slowdown or recession is near upon us, it will take hold not this year, but rather heap its sorry pain upon us next year with the shortened holiday shopping season of 2019. That just means it’s time to start shopping while things are still good! Take a quick moment though, to be a bit reflective. There really is much be thankful for. We can start with giving thanks for an end to the barrage of nonstop negative political commercials! Didn’t they just drive you nearly nuts?! Considering the things that were said about every serious candidate, you’d think that each and every one of them should be serving time in prison! It’s truly ridiculous the audacity of the things that people sometime say about each other. Nonetheless, hopefully, the best ones won. Only time will tell. Maybe our forefathers had it all figured out by planning our elections for the first Tuesday of November. They knew that following the screaming slugfest of an election we’d need a break and a chance to calm down. It seems like a good plan, even if by coincidence, that only about three weeks after elections we’d be back to celebrating a good holiday, Thanksgiving, and start reflecting once again on the greatness of being an American.
Ours is not the only country in the world to celebrate with Thanksgiving. I’d maintain, though, that we do it the best. Our neighbors to the north, in Canada, also have an official Thanksgiving holiday. Theirs is celebrated in October, which I suppose makes sense since it starts getting rather cold shortly thereafter. Pilgrims and Indians aren’t the focus for the Canadian Thanksgiving. The Mayflower landed here, not there, so (according to Wikipedia) Canadians “celebrate the harvest and other blessings of the past year.” The official date of Thanksgiving in Canada is the second Monday of October. Worth noting is that it means Canadians get a three day weekend whereas we Americans, celebrating Thanksgiving, as we do on Thursdays, get to stretch our fall holiday weekend into four full days! Of the other countries around the world celebrating Thanksgiving, I find none that are as fascinating as that observed in the Netherlands. There, they celebrate our American Thanksgiving! It’s all because of an interesting and often forgotten bit of history. While we remember and recount to our children and grandchildren the story of the brave Pilgrims who left Plymouth, England, for the dangerous ocean voyage, which landed them at Plymouth Rock in what is now Massachusetts, it was actually the Netherlands from where they first set sail. Before leaving for America, the Pilgrims had evaded English persecution by finding a religious safe haven in Holland. They stayed there, planning and organizing for about 10 years before setting out on their journey. Finally, in 1620, we pick up the story we all know where, after heading back to England to change ships, they set sail aboard the Mayflower, headed to the “New Land.” I deem it an honor that Holland takes pride in its part of the founding of our country. Mind you, the Dutch have had influence and shared a special relationship with America in many other ways as well, but their annual celebration in observance of our Thanksgiving provides us with one more of many things to be thankful for.
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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. He and his wife, Sharon, live in Plant City, where he served nine years as City Commissioner, including three terms as Mayor.
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Everglades Equipment Group hosts “Deere Day” By Melissa Nichols
Each year Everglades Equipment Group hosts “Deere Day,” an event to thank their customers. This year the Plant City store, which services Polk and Hillsborough counties, held Deere Day on October 25. The President of Everglades, Mike Schlechter, his wife Anna, his daughter, Alleigh Reitz, who is the Marketing Manager of Everglades, and Diane Padron, the Human Resources director, came up from the Everglades headquarters in Wellington to spend the day with the staff of the Plant City store and their loyal customers. “It is hard to maintain the feel of the little hometown tractor store where everyone knows everyone and you are greeted with a handshake and grow the business, but our focus is to do just that. It was my father’s vision and something we will keep working on, we want to know our customers and we want them to know we appreciate them,” Mike Schlechter said. This year was no different from years past, they set up a huge tent, had tractors on display, new implements and items out, BBQ food prepared on site (amazing ribs and chicken), along with corn on the cob, potato salad, mac and cheese, a variety of desserts and of course the famous “Everglades ice cream” with the pto ice cream churn. There was also live entertainment and amazing door prizes, like Stihl equipment and a John Deere Safe. Hats and cups were also given at the gate to guests as they arrived. “Our customers make up this business, we know that without them we would not be Everglades Equipment Group and Everglades is so much more than a name, to us it’s a legacy, a family legacy that I am proud to carry on,” Alleigh Reitz said.
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Everglades was also present at the ribbon cutting for Warner University’s new Ed & Myrtle Lou Swindle Agriculture Complex, greeting members of the community and the founders. Everglades Equipment Group goes above and beyond to win over your business and to thank you for it.
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A Closer Look
by Sean Green
Florida Worm Lizard (Rhineura floridana) eyes have a cornea and lens covered in clear protective scale but are reduced in size and offer little more than the detection of light for the lizard. Unlike other lizards and snakes, the Amphisbaenia lack visible ear canals, however they do have earlike sensors that detect vibrations in the ground. Nostrils are located on the underside of the head but are used more for breathing than smelling. These lizards are nearly blind and are thought to rely heavily on a Jacobson’s organ with which they collect molecules from the air on the tips of their tongue and “taste” what is around them be it prey, predator, or mate. The Florida Worm Lizard (Rhineura floridana) has a single large tooth in the front of its upper jaw surrounded by several tiny teeth. It is an opportunistic feeder that preys on small soft bodied invertebrates and their pupa, such as termites, spiders, worms, or anything else it can catch.
I am always happy to learn about wildlife that is unique to Florida or at least close to it. This month are featuring a lizard that although abundant worldwide, is somewhat rare in North America. In fact populations are nearly restricted to Florida. These lizards look a lot like giant earthworms at first glance and can reach lengths of 12 inches. It’s pink to beige scales are arranged in a circular pattern giving it a segmented, worm like appearance. That and the fact that they have a complete absence of legs are characteristics responsible for the common name “Worm Lizard.” These lizards live underground and do not bask in the sun like their cousins do. In fact, the only time you are likely to see them is after a heavy rain forces them to surface. For this reason, these lizards are sometimes called “Thunder Worms.” We still have a few rainy days ahead of us and you might be lucky enough to find one of these extraordinary lizards if you take a closer look while the weather is still warm enough for reptiles.
The geographical origin of the Amphisbaenia is not certain, however, fossil evidence dating back 60 million years include Rhineuridae and suggest that the Amphisbaenia family are not only native to North America, but the crown from which other species probably diverged and dispersed. The Florida Worm Lizard (Rhineura floridana) is the only living remanence of the Amphisbaenia family in North America and has not changed significantly from its ancestral roots of the early Palaeocene epoch of new life after the mass extinction. If you would like to see an example of prehistoric life, these reptiles are found primarily in Florida, but their range includes a small part of southern Georgia (Lanier County) and can be found during or right after a hard shower under logs, in leaf mold, or well-drained soil in dry upland hammocks of sand pine, longleaf pine and turkey oak. Eggs would have hatched through September and October, so you may find some young ones not much bigger than a worm, take a closer look next time it rains.
Although its appearance may suggest a link to snakes or Dibamidae (blind lizards), this reptile is not a snake, and technically not a lizard (as we know them). Recent studies in the evolutionary development and diversification of this group of reptiles have led scientists to believe they are more closely related to the lacertidae (wall lizards) which are the common lizards we all see around our homes. (Townsend et al.2004) To be accurate however, this reptile is properly referred to as Amphisbaenia (worm lizards) which is scientifically described as a group of legless scaled reptiles. Their name has its roots in the ancient Greek amphisbaena, a mythological ant eating serpent with a head at each end of its body that spawned from the blood of the slain Medusa’s head. This reference is attributed to the lizard’s blunt tail that resembles a second head and its ability to move backwards as easily as forward. Within the group are five families of worm lizards belonging to different regions of the world. In North America we have the Rhineuridae family which has only one living species, The Florida Worm Lizard (Rhineura floridana) (Baird, 1859) There are important differences that distinguish these reptiles from snakes. Their right lung rather than left is reduced to fit their body. Unlike a snake, Amphisbaenia have a thick, shovel shaped head of nearly solid bone with which it digs it tunnels in sandy, well-drained soil. Their primitive sunken INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Hurricane Relief By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff
On October 10, 2018, Hurricane Michael made landfall in the beautiful panhandle region of Florida, and left devastation in its wake. Fortunately, most residents were prepared, but there were several casualties to citizens and some first responders, during and after the storm.
teams in the Bonifay area, and were ready to answer calls for service if needed. By the weekend, it was clear we needed to head over to Chipley, in Washington County, partnering with Sheriff Crews and his team, with our equipment to help remove trees from roadways and homes.
Once the storm left the area, the Florida Sheriffs remained in contact with each other and the state EOC to determine where the immediate needs were, and which resources were going where. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office covers a 2,000 square mile area consisting of lakes, swamps, marshes, dirt roads, and sandy prairies, and we are blessed with specialty vehicles accustomed to traversing various types of terrain. We’ve let everyone know – we’re here for you, ready to load up and head your way.
The PCSO hurricane deployment team worked in Chipley, helping with debris removal, doing well-being checks, providing security patrols at gas stations and other areas (especially needed during the curfew), and even rescuing a few small animals. The work was difficult yet rewarding, and our deputies would rather be up in the panhandle helping than anywhere else.
A little known fact about Polk is that three of the four hurricanes to strike Florida in 2004 – Charley, Frances, and Jeanne - struck our land-locked county, right in the middle of the state. After 2004, we no longer believed we were “safe from storms” just because we aren’t located on a coastline. We suffered some fairly heavy damage during Hurricane Irma in 2017 as well. I guess you could say we know our way around a storm. This year, we were able to use that knowledge and experience to assist others. On Wednesday evening, we spoke with Sheriff Tate in Holmes County, and we formulated a plan for Polk to send up a team of deputies, fire rescue personnel, equipment, and support staff to Bonifay. Our teams are organized to be 100% selfsupported and self-sustaining so that we don’t demand resources and negatively impact the area se are serving.
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Our convoy left Polk County on Thursday afternoon, October 11th, and arrived after midnight the following morning. After setting up camp, the weary travelers grabbed a few hours of shut eye – then it was time to get to work. We provided POD (point of distribution) security, shelter security, and push
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After Washington County, we headed down to help out in Bay County, where there was a whole new set of challenges and opportunities for service. We worked with outstanding professionals dedicated to recovery and public safety. Here’s a rundown of what the deployment team includes, all of which is assigned to our Agricultural Crimes Unit: A total of 30 deputies and supervisors; multiple patrol cars, a mobile command center, a cook trailer, a shower trailer, and a bunk trailer; a generator trailer; a water tank on a trailer; a county fuel truck; a trailer with tables and chairs; swamp buggy; airboat; surface drive boat; two Pathfinders; all-terrain vehicles; and stock trailers with panels. All of this equipment enables us to be a completely self-sufficient “small city” when we arrive – we don’t need anything except a space in which to park and set up camp. We bring with us two cooks from the Department of Detention, a mechanic from Fleet Services, and Polk County Fire Rescue provides a fire engine and an ambulance. Some of our Agricultural Crimes deputies arrived in their pickup trucks, outfitted with wenches. Each of the deputies brings an eagerness to serve, and we couldn’t be more proud of them. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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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Polk County Cattle Women
The holidays are fast approaching but that doesn’t mean that things are slowing down for the Cattlewomen. We have been out and about promoting the Beef Industry. Last month our ladies spent some time at the Smith Family Ranch’s Corn Fusion Corn Maze. This month, ladies from across the state have been promoting Beef at the Junior Service League of Tampa’s Holiday Market. We’ve also had a chance to give back to our community with our annual toy drive to benefit Florida Baptist Children’s Home at the Cattlemen’s Dinner. Thank you to everyone who supported this worthy cause! The Florida Cattlemen’s Association is working to help members from the Panhandle who have been affected by Hurricane Michael. They are in need of volunteers to help with the clean up efforts as well as monetary donations for supplies. If you are interested in volunteering to help with chainsaw or fence building crews contact Dusty Holley at dusty@floridacattlemen.org or Jim Handley at jim@floridacattlemen.org. Monetary donations for fencing and livestock supplies can be made to the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation at http://www. floridacattlemen.org/foundation/donate/ . Donations are tax deductible.
small way whether it’s a monetary donation or a donation of your time to a local outreach program, animal shelter, children’s home or church, they will all be appreciative of your support. You may never really know how much you have impacted someone else’s life but I can assure you they will never forget. Also don’t forget that the FCA/FCW Fall Quarterly is coming up on November 29th and 30th in Clewiston. We will not have another membership meeting until after the New Year. Our Christmas Party will be held on December 8th at Sweet Magnolias Tea Room at 2 p.m. I hope to see you there!
Be good and do good deeds,
Megan Atkinson
Polk County Cattlewomen President
I know that this is the busiest time of the year for many of us but I encourage you to try help others in some
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From our family to yours, wishing you a
Happy Thanksgiving
Fancy Farms would like to give thanks for all our friends and family who love and support us throughout the year!
NEW LOCATION: Southeast corner of Drane Field and County Line Rd.
Produce Stand: 5212 Drane Field Rd. | 813.478.3486 or 813.754.4852 | FancyFarms.com INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
November
2018
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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
November
2018
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM