WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
1
2
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Southeastern Septic Business Up Front
By Brandy Howell
I arrived at the Southeastern Septic shop in Lakeland bright and early at 7:00am on a Thursday morning. Crews were already pulling out of the parking lot, guys filling up water coolers in anticipation of a hot afternoon, and men were getting instructions for the day. Everyone was well on their way to a day full of work. Shane Ray, owner and operator, was among the organized chaos giving directions with a polite and respected demeanor. I had lots of questions, but the tiny smart car parked out front was on the top of my list. Shane told me that it was used for sales. I thought that was a really creative conversation piece for a company in this business. As I waited that morning, I noticed that there was a Bible verse written on the company vehicle. I wasn’t familiar with this particular one so, naturally, I looked it up. Here is what I found. Deuteronomy 23:12 (NIV), “Designate a place outside the camp where you can go to relieve yourself.” Shane said, “I didn’t realize that what we did was actually Biblical until someone pointed it out.” I must admit, I was intrigued. I had no idea either! Shane Ray started Southeastern Septic 10 years ago with $1,000 and a small tractor. However, over the years, he has built it into an operation of magnitude with 15 employees, and several trucks. A few years ago, he hired a secretary named Rhonda, and a Sales Manager named Wayne. His grandfather had a septic business when Shane was a child so this industry was something he was familiar and comfortable with when he resigned from the City of Lakeland where he was a lineman. Shane had a vision, but his biggest road block was being as young as he was when he started out. He was only 24 and had to learn many lessons about business by trial and error … and from his own checkbook. It hasn’t always been easy, but it is constantly evolving. Southeastern Septic now manufactures the septic tanks, as well as, deWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
livering and installing them. This has broadened the business aspect of the company because they can sell to other companies, in addition to individuals. All of the building is done right on site. “Your Septic Specialists” is definitely a very appropriate motto for this company. One thing that I noticed when I walked into the office at Southeastern Septic (other than the air conditioner being set on 69 degrees) was the décor. There were hunting pictures and mounts hung on every wall. It didn’t take long for our conversation to migrate to hunting. Shane and his family love to hunt in Ohio, Oklahoma, and Georgia. I must admit, I was a little jealous at the amount of time they get to spend in the woods every year. The property where Southeastern Septic is located was purchased by Shane in 2009. For extra help on busy days or when the workers need time off, the company uses “day laborers.” Shane doesn’t worry about their backgrounds or their pasts. He says that he believes in second chances. Shane talked about his employees with pride. I can tell that the team there is definitely more of family. In addition to a great crew at work, Shane has support from his family. He works hard to ensure that they have the things that they want and need. Shane is married to Rhiannon. He is the father of two children, Kobe Shane and Paisley. Kobe Shane is eight and Paisley is a month old. You can tell that his children are a huge part of his life. Shane Ray and Southeastern Septic can be reached at 863-688-7264 or online at www.southeasternseptic.com. Shane told me that he had a vision for his company, but he never imagined it would grow into something this big. In his own words when I asked about how he became so successful, “The only way this could all be done is through God because I couldn’t do it on my own. And why he chose me, I couldn’t tell you.” INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
3
POLK COU NTY
®
Contents
CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION
V O L . 7 • IS S U E 7
Contents
VOL. 7 • ISSUE 12
F eature S tory
Rob Krieger S Bar S
APLittle a gSlice e 3of4Heaven
Page
24
cover photo by Melissa Nichols
Business Up Front
Page 3
Meet The Minks
Page 34
Master Gardner
Page 10
Fishing Hot Spots
Polk County Cattleman’s Dinner
Page 35
Page 14
Citrus Greening
Page 18
FFA Hall of Fame Inductees 2014
Page 36
Grove Equipment Customer Days
Recipe
Page 40
Page 19
Rocking Chair Chatter
Florida Lima Beans
Page 41
Page 22
FREE Ride Sheriff Grady Judd
Naturally Amazing: DIY Bees Nest
Page 44
Page 28 4-H Club
Page 29
Up Close: Pollination Politics
Page 45
Don’t Kill The Bees
P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS0 3 Bartow, FL 33831 -9005 President – J. B. Wynn OFFICERSDave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 (863) 581-3255 & B OARD OF DIRECTORS cattlemenslivestock@ jbwynn29@gmail.com P resident - C harlesearthlink.net C lark ( 863) 528-8537 Vice President – David Mike Facente McCullerscclark@ expoco.com 697-9419 (863) 635-2821crookedlaV ice P resident - Dave(863) Tomkow keranch@verizon.net ( 863) 6 6 5-50 88 cattlemanslivetock@ earthlink.net Standing Committee Chairs: Secretary/Treasurer - Justin S ecretary/ Treasurer - J ustin B unch Membership- J.B. Wynn Bunch ( 863) 4 25-1121 jbunch@ agriumretail.com (863) 425-1121 A l B ellotto - ( 863) 581-5515Events- Kevin Fussell jbunch@agriumretail.com R ay C lark - ( 863) 6 83-819 6 (863) 412-5876 rclark@ tampabay.rr.com State Director – Ray Clark L .B .(863) F landers, DV M - ( 863) 6 4 Trade 4 -5974 Show640-0719 rclark@tampabay.rr.com Dewey F ussell - ( 863) 9 84 -3782 Rodeo- Fred Waters Mike F ussell - ( 863) 69 8-8314 Al Bellotto fussell.flafarm@ verizon.net (863) 559-7808 (863) 581-5515 David McC ullers - ( 863) 528-1195 Website – Chris Nelson MobyCharles Persing (863) 533-1020 Clark- ( 863) 528-4 379 Ned W aters - ( 863) 69 8-1597 RChrisnelson@gmail.com watersn@ doacs.state.fl.us (863) 528-8537 J .B . W ynn - ( 863) 581-3255 cclarkc4@yahoo.com Cattlewomen – Vice Presijbwynn29 @ gmail.com dent, Laura Slocumb L.B. Flanders, DVMFacente - ( 863) (863)697-9419 660-7000 A lternate - Mike (863) 644-5974 laura@higgenbotham.com S tanding C ommittee C hairs:
Membership - J .B . W ynnExtension – Bridget Carlisle Dewey Fussell
(863)- 984-3782 PO Box4 12-5876 9005, Drawer HS03 E vents K evin F ussell ( 863) Bartow, FL 33831
R odeo - F red W aters ( 863) 559 -780 8 Mike Fussell (863) 519-1048 watersf@ doacs.state.fl.us (863) 698-8314 bccarlis@ufl.edu Website - Chris Nelson
fussell.flafarm@verizon.net C attlewomen - P resident Sheriff’s Dept. – Sgt. Marjorie W ood ( 863) 6 6 0 -4 137 Moby Persing Tommy Dixon onnie397@ aol.com 863-528-4567 (863) 534-7205 E xtension - B ridget C arlisle ( 863) 519 -8677 tdixon@polksheriff.org bccarlis@ ufl.edu
S heriff’s Dept. - S gt. Tommy Dixon
Page 32 4
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
5
Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Do you have any idea how many people occupy our great nation? The number is a staggering 318,000,000 (and growing). Check out the web site census.gov and you can actually watch the population explosion by the numbers and see that we have a net gain of a person every 12 seconds. Would you like to guess the number of people that claim to farm as an occupation? According to http://www.epa.gov/agriculture/ ag101/demographics.html it is less than one percent of the population. This is people who claim their primary occupation is farming. It doesn’t count those who may live on a farm but make their living some other way. What does this mean? One very important thing is that many children have no idea that their food doesn’t originate in the grocery store. The number of our population, both children and adult, who have never stepped on to a farm, is staggering. A huge number of our population lives in cities, so children, and their parents for that matter, seem to forget that PEOPLE grow our food. Do you think children of today actual KNOW what an egg is? How about where bacon comes from? Milk? Even oranges! This is a huge disconnect from something that we rely on for our health. The message can not be repeated enough, our youth, and many of their parents, need to be aware that their food, and fiber as well, don’t just magically appear in the store. Farmers and ranchers are there at the beginning. Not only do we need to teach our population where their food originates, we need to educate them on the relationship between food and having energy to run, play, work, and live. So don’t forget to thank the farmer and rancher for providing you with sustenance. You may not have purchased your dinner directly from them, but they are the reason we have the safest, most abundant food supply in the world. Until Next Month
Sarah
6
The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. _ Numbers 6:25
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
Editor-In-Chief Al Berry Editor Patsy Berry
Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers..............................16 Alan’s Air Conditioning..................47 Bankers South..................................2 Broke & Poor....................................7 Cattleman’s Livestock Auction.....12 Cecil Breeding Farm.......................17 Country Village...............................21 Ellison RBM Inc...............................39 Everglades Farm Equipment........48 Exo Creative...................................26
Office Manager Bob Hughens Sales Manager Danny Crampton Sales Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton Melissa Nichols Creative Director/Illustrator
Juan Alvarez
Farm Credit.....................................37 Florida Fence & Post......................15 Florida Mineral, Salt & Ag Products.................................27 Fran Haasch.......................................5 Fred’s Market Restaurant..............23 Grove Equipment Service............27 Grove Equipment Service............38 Grove Equipment Service............42 Gulf Coast Tractor..........................13 Harvest Holler Corn Maze..............9 Harvest Meat Market.....................21 Helena Chemical-Tampa..............20
Photography Karen Berry Al Berry Stephanie Humphrey Melissa Nichols
International Market World.........20
Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Libby Hopkins Melissa Nichols
Mosaic.................................................7
Contributing Writers Woody Gore
Stephanie Humphrey.....................44
Jason Grimes Contracting............12 JMI Flooring....................................23 Key Plex............................................43 Lightsey Cattle Co.........................39 Pathway Biologic............................31 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association...................4 Prevatte Enterprises......................16 Seedway..........................................9 Southwestern Produce..................37 Southeastern Septic......................26 The Bug Man..................................39
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
We help hardworking farmers nourish our growing world.
That’s our promise. As the world’s population increases, the demand for affordable food increases with it. The Mosaic Company helps the world grow the food it needs by providing farmers with essential crop nutrients. Today, more than half the phosphate fertilizer used by U.S. farmers is produced right here in Florida. Mosaic’s more than 3,000 Florida employees are honored to help farmers put food on the table for millions of families – including yours. Join in Mosaic’s promise at www.mosaicco.com/promise.
Tom Pospichal, Manager Mosaic Agricultural Operations, Florida
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
7
Well, it looks like we made it through another Florida “Winter.” I hope this finds and theirgrasses sumWe welcome the everyone Spring onwell March 20enjoying with green mer high vacationing and spending withthis their families. and cattle prices. As I’m time writing letter, I am Despite the we are a decent amount of reflecting on heat, how good it isgetting to be in the cattle business rain,how and thankful everyone is to continuing to enjoy record calf and I am get to work with such a good prices.of people. group July 17 was the Cattlemen’s Dinner Cattlemen’s in Bartow Speaking of good people, theAnnual Polk County and it Rodeo was good to seeShow some was “old”a faces, along with Ranch & Trade big success once the new. TheonCattlemen’s board prepared a greatCenter steak again. Held February 15 at the Agricultural dinner and approximately the CattleWomen baked some delicious desin Bartow, 1,500 attendees came out to serts that were auctioned raisinginmoney their watch cowboys and girls off, compete variousforevents scholarships. few brands branded the Race. wall, including WildA Cow Milking were and the Wild on Horse thank to Moby Persing fortried helping with that. IftoI win did T welveyou teams competed and their hardest get theevent chance to meet you I lookthe forward to meetanot coveted buckle or especially first place prize inga you in the future,First hopefully ourand next dinnerwent and of trophy saddle. place at title saddles meeting in November. to Lightsey Cattle Company. Congrats to Clint and Cliff Lightsey, Dusty and Charity Crosby and Michael GrimalTheThis Polkteam County Board of Directors di. will Cattlemen’s represent Polk County well in has the been Ranch contacting over 2014 Rodeosome Stateexpired Finals inmembers Kissimmee thisthe Fall.last couple of weeks. I would encourage you to join or renew committee your membership, as thebebenefits MemThe would never able toare pullmany. off this robersevent of the without PCCA arethe entitled to volunteers two dinnerswho throughout deo help of provide the year and your can comeAand their time,where trucks,you trailers, stock family and equipment. big thank you as well to all of the sponsors! These companies and individuals donate their money, so make sure to remember these companies when it comes time to doing business. The CattleWomen provide the food at
88 88
IINNTTHE HEFFIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE IINNTTHE HEFFIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
M March arch 2014 2014 A August ugust 2014 2014
enjoy a delicious steak- dinner as never well asdisappoint! fellowship with the concession stand and they Fred fellow has cattlemen. Waters chaired this committee every year - so thank him when you see him. Without these people, this event Also, as a member would never happen.you and your family have free entrance into the Polk County Ranch Rodeo and Trade Show isinthe February. What great showAgri-Fest and a heck of March month for the aPolk County which a value. Don’t forget at that can Center. use theRunning county takes place in Bartow themembers Agricultural squeeze chute forand use17-21, with this theirprogram own cattle as well! from March 10-14 teaches Polk Just call reservethe it. importance of agriculture in our County 4thtograders state and it’s huge impact on our economy. Volunteers Polkalways County has the largest Cattlemen’s association in are needed. Also, the Florida Cattlemen’s Legislathe Quarterly state. Thistakes is something I am very be tive place in that Tallahassee on proud March to 11-13. a part of. Please encourage friends and neighbors This gives the cattlemen andyour women an opportunity to to join (especially if they don’t own their chute!). meet with state legislators regarding issuesown facing our Also feel Iffree to have contact me if you industry. you a chance to ever attendhave the any FFA’sprob11th lems or questions. would be to22 help in always any way Annual Beast Feast &I Auction on glad March - it’s a I can.time (especially to try new wild food). great Hope to see you at any of these well-organized events!
JB Wynn JB Wynn JB Wynn Polk County Catlemen’s Association President Polk County Catlemen’s Association President
WWW. WWW.IIN NTTHE HEFFIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
WWW. WWW.IIN NTTHE HEFFIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
• Sneezes normally exceed 100 mph, while coughs clock in at around 60 mph. • Your body has enough iron in it to make a nail three inches long. • Feet have 500,000 sweat glands and can produce more than a pint of sweat a day. • Humans are the only animals that can produce emotional tears. • The human heart creates enough pressure to squirt blood 30 feet in the air. • Your ears secrete more earwax when you are afraid than when you aren’t. • The human head remains conscious for about 15 to 20 seconds after it has been decapitated. • The fastest growing nail is on the middle finger, left hand. • The tooth is the only part of the human body that cannot repair itself. • By 60 years of age, 60% of men and 40% of women will snore. • The human body is estimated to have 60,000 miles of blood vessels. • Less than one-third of the human race has 20-20 vision. • Everyone has a unique smell, except identical twins, who smell the same. • Your nose can remember 50,000 different scents. • The three thing pregnant women dream most of during their first their three months of pregnancy are frogs, worms and potted plants.
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
9
MA ST ER G A R D EN ER
Coleus Envy By Debra Howell
Of the many staple plants in my childhood landscape, coleus played a paramount role. The plants were so plentiful that many Fort Meadeans approached Mrs. Velma for cuttings so that they might also achieve the trademark splash of color for which coleus are famous. Our coleus were so prevalent and so envied, that after a few years of pinching and some cold spells, we no longer had coleus in our yard. Coleus are tender and are considered annuals in most areas of Florida, but may be grown year round in Zone 11. Where is Zone 11, you ask? Well, it is the Florida Keys. Hardiness, notwithstanding, we were still very successful with year round coleus in our predominately shady Zone 9 yard. While researching the origin of coleus, I discovered that they are not native to North America and originate in the “Old World Tropics.” Well, that certainly narrows it down. One source claims Southeast Asia as the source of origination. They did, however, burst on the Victorian-era American scene in the 1800s where they gained immediate imminence. The popularity of coleus soon waned, as they were regarded as difficult to cultivate and had dark, muted brooding colors. Also, they were considered a shade-loving plant. But, from the 1940s through the 1990s, coleus began a resurgence with the introduction of new, leafier, more colorful varieties. In addition, the newer types were able to come out of the shade and begin to thrive in sunnier spots. Bok Tower Gardens uses examples of both shade and sun types of coleus tucked away here and there, where color is needed to fill a spot. 10
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
Now back to Zone 11. While perusing the University of Florida IFAS bulletin FPS 136, it came to my attention that coleus had a wide potential planting range. Most of the continental United States was included, except parts of upstate Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota. Bear in mind that frost wipes out these plants, so they would only be viable as annuals for a few months anywhere north of Zone 11. You may use coleus in the winter in South Florida if they are kept hydrated and in full sun. Although coleus like well-drained soil and don’t benefit from “wet feet,” they still like regular watering. Remember to water thoroughly at planting and then each day for seven to ten days. According to author, Pamela Crawford, in her book “Container Gardens for Florida,” coleus is one of the highest performers in her container garden trials, thriving in every pot they used. Pamela states, “They produce some of the most beautiful leaf patterns in the world.” Container grown coleus may be used as focal points for terrace gardens, patios, balconies and porches. Remember that container grown plants are more susceptible to drought. You will need a soil mix that will drain readily, which will necessitate that you water more frequently. Containerized plants normally need more frequent watering than plants grown in your landscape. If you plan to utilize coleus as a container plant, use the smaller cultivars as mounding plants, with the larger types such as “Big Blonde” as the centerpiece. You will hear the terms filler, spiller and thriller used when containerizing plants. The fillers WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
are the plants used to “fill” the bulk of the pot. Spillers are the training plants that you use to “trail” down the sides of the pot. And, the “thriller’ is your spectacular center piece plant. Coleus may actually be used as a filler, spiller and thriller, depending on the cultivar, as these plants range in height from 6 to 36 inches. Previously, coleus came with the caveat “use only in shady locations.” However, new varieties are now available that do well in the sun. Most sun-loving varieties form few flowers. Flowers are deemed undesirable on coleus, as their size is insignificant and they divert energy that could be better used to enrich the foliage. These plants are famous for their foliage not their flowers. Sun-loving coleus are available in varieties such as Gay’s Delight, Rustic Orange, Thumbelina and Red Ruffles. The Ducksfoot type has smaller leaves that resemble duck feet and are drought tolerant due to their smaller leaf size. When shopping for coleus at a big box stores, you will probably only find a few cultivars. You may possibly find more types are available at your favorite nursery, or perhaps they may be able to order them for you. Plant names may differ from one store to another, but do not stress over the name difference – each cultivator/breeder selects the name for their own plants.
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
In other words, while one company may call their deep purple coleus “Dark Star,” another company may call their same colored cultivar by another name. A beautiful landscape plan employs the use of a dark red cultivar planted in a bold swath with the contrasting bright green of the hardy Margarita sweet potato vine. Coleus provide a wonderful bedding plant. Indeed, the idea of Victorian-era carpet bedding utilized coleus for its amazing leaf patterns and bright colors. Coleus are easily cultivated and grow rapidly to their full size. They may require a mid-summer pruning when they become leggy. These plants are simple to grow from cuttings. You may also allow the plants to flower and then collect the seeds for propagation. In Florida, you may begin your coleus in March in Zones 9, 10 and 11, for Zone 8, plant in May and in June for those up in Hardiness Zone 7. This versatile plant offers a plethora of options. With the varied beauty of coleus cultivars, you may discover the missing element, the secret addition to your landscape masterpiece. Coleus offer such a wide variety of leaf shapes and color combinations that you will surely envision the perfect application for your landscape theme and be the envy of your neighborhood, too!
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
11
Cattlemen’s Livestock Market 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
Cattle Receiving Schedule:
Mondays: 8am-9pm April thru October 8am-8pm November thru March Tuesdays: 7am- End of Sale For Competitive Prices, Let Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Market handle your Livestock Merchandising
Special Sales:
Replacement Heifer Sales, Direct Sales, Video Sales, All Breed Bull Sales, On Site Dispersal Sales (Includes Dairy, Beef and Equipment)
Watch our sales online at LMAAuctions.com Superior Livestock Representative
Dave or Mike Tomkow
Dave Cell (863) 559-3266 or Mike Cell (863) 559-5091 Office (863) 665-5088 or Home (352) 523-2081 12
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
WWW. WWW.IIN NTTHE HEF FIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
IIN NTTHE HEF FIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
A August ugust 2014 2014
13 13
Fishing Report & Ethanol Fuel at Pump August 2014 They’re at it again: Missouri Corn Growers Pushing for More Ethanol at the Fuel Pump -
Consumers Asked to Pay for an Ethanol-At-All-Cost Agenda
States (BoatUS) says that smart consumers have learned that corn-based ethanol has not lived up to its expectations as America’s green fuel and that higher ethanol blends – those being encouraged by the MCGA – are incompatible with outboard boat motors, generators, lawn mowers, motorcycles, and so many other engines. “Ever since 10% ethanol gas has been on the market, boaters have experienced problems with engine and fuel systems. Now, with higher blends like 15% ethanol (E15) coming to the pump, consumers need to be really careful about misfueling,” said Boat US Government Affairs Senior Program Coordinator David Kennedy. “On a boat, bad fuel can escalate quickly to a stopped engine, placing those aboard and the boat itself in jeopardy. And boaters know that higher ethanol blends, such as E15, will only cause more damage to outboard boat engines. The EPA has specifically prohibited the use of E15 in marine engines, and currently, there is not one boat motor designed or warrantied to use with more than E10.” Article by Boat US: D. Scott Croft
This Ethanol fuel situation is going to keep escalating until it really becomes a problem for recreational and commercial fishing and, in general, the boating industry. If you’re not careful with the fuel you purchase you can end up with some major engine problems not only with your outboard boat motors, generators, lawn mowers, motorcycles, but so many other engines. We’ve got to keep our eyes and ears open to what’s going on around us and not let this ethanol get any worse than it already is. Below is an article from BoatUS that show another push by the Missouri Corn Growers trying to up the ethanol level in our fuels 10% to 15%. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. July 8, 2014 – Are wise consumers of gasoline being pushed to use a fuel that doesn’t work in their boats, lawn equipment, and other small engines? A June 24 statement from the Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) blames current high gasoline prices on volatile markets and calls for more ethanol at the gas pump to lower gas prices. However, Boat Owners Association of The United 14
NTHE HEFIELD IELD MAGAZINE AGAZINE IN
ugust 2014 August
Added BoatUS’ Kennedy, “While all of us are tired of shelling out an arm and a leg for gas, boaters are also sick and tired of having engines fail and paying large repair bills. Boat US strongly believes renewable fuels are an important part of our nation’s energy future, and we aren’t anti-corn farmer. But as a country, we can’t ignore the fact that corn-based ethanol may not be the savior – or profit center – that many had hoped.”
Let’s Go Fishing! REDFISH - August should see more redfish action around the Tampa Bay area. This past month we could find lots of single and a few small schooling fish, but getting them to take live bait with any consistency was often difficult. We seemed to have better luck using cut bait on the bottom with the rod in the rod holder. We also had decent success using shrimp around mangroves and docks. The Bay notoriously produces good catches of redfish, you just need to find the ones ready to eat. Redfish will push into the Mangrove lined shores and oyster bars on incoming tides where live bait normally produce good catches along with cut bait. Early morning artificial lures fished on the grass flats and around the mangroves usually offer some excellent excitement as well. Work both incoming and outgoing tides. WWW. THE IELD AGAZINE.COM WWW. ININ THE FF IELD MM AGAZINE.COM
Gene Tipton Past Pres Altidas Cigars
SNOOK - Snook fishing will continue strong this month with some larger fish still in the passes and on the beaches. Expect those near the passes to congregate near the deeper holes and back eddies. They often appear to have lockjaw but patience seems to pay off when looking for larger fish. Snook of all sizes like dead bait, especially the big ones. Simply cut the tail off a threadfin and let it lay on the bottom. Artificial lures usually produce some awesome action and if you’re past the learning curve, tossing plastics to waiting snook can be loads of fun and excitement. SPOTTED SEA TROUT – Tampa Bay Trout have come back like gangbusters. It’s not unusual to catch a limit of nice eighteen to nineteen inch trout for dinner on any grass flat provided you’re on good incoming or outgoing tides. Trout fishing is always fun, especially when you find some larger fish willing to eat. If you’re free-lining white bait or shrimp and the current is moving, you might need to add split shot to keep the bait down. In water five feet or shallower try a popping cork, but again you might want to add a little weight.
Mike Duke
MACKEREL & BLUEFISH - Tampa Bay has its share of mackerel and bluefish and fishing this month should be great. Just look for schools of threadfins, put out a chum bag and hold onto your rod and reel. The mackerel will actually wear you out to the point of putting your rod and reel down and taking a seat. For some exciting top water action try tail hooking your bait and let it work against the current. This forces the bait to the top for some great top water strikes. SNAPPER – Seems there are plenty of grey snapper in the bay. Just find some structure and rig up with small pinfish or the first hatch greenbacks, drop them down and hold on. “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 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.
Visit his website at: WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com
or give him a call at 813-477-3814
WWW.IN NTHE HEFIELD IELDMAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM WWW.
NTHE HEFIELD IELD MAGAZINE AGAZINE IN
ugust 2014 2014 AAugust
15
16
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
WWW. WWW.IIN NTTHE HEFFIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
IINNTTHE HEFFIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
AA ugust ugust 2014 2014
17 17
By Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam
Citrus Greening
As many of you know, one of America’s favorite beverages is at grave risk. Though Florida’s citrus trees have overcome many challenges over the last five centuries, including freezes, hurricanes and canker, its latest challenge poses an existential threat to the industry. In 2006, a tiny insect the size of a pin introduced citrus greening to Florida. Trees infected with citrus greening produce bitter, misshapen and unmarketable fruit. Worse, infected trees die within five years. Now, this deadly disease has spread to every citrus-producing county in the state and infected more than half of Florida’s citrus groves. A casual glance at almost any grove will reveal evidence of its destruction. We have reached a crisis point. Production of Florida oranges is at a 30-year low. In its heyday, the citrus industry produced nearly 250 million boxes of oranges per season, but the most recent citrus forecast predicts we’ll produce just over 100 million boxes of oranges this year. Florida’s citrus industry has a $9 billion economic impact on our state and supports more than 75,000 jobs, all of which are currently at risk. This industry’s decline and ultimate devastation would have a ripple effect on communities throughout the state. Fortunately, there is strong financial support for Florida’s citrus industry to fight the spread of citrus greening and support research for a cure. Florida growers alone have con18
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
tributed an estimated $70 million to this cause. The federal government has also committed more than $130 million, and the state government has committed nearly $20 million more. We’ve also seen support from major corporations like Coca-Cola and Pepsi, signaling they are not ready to give up on America’s favorite breakfast beverage. With this financial support, we must use every tool in the toolbox to find a solution. Some options showing promise include thermal therapies and antimicrobial treatments. We’re also employing techniques to prevent the spread of greening until there is a cure, such as partnering groves in close proximity to one another to maximize the effectiveness of bio-control strategies and releasing parasitoids to stop the vector responsible for spreading greening. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, in hopes of finding a solution soon, is already preparing to help the industry rebuild. We’ve expanded our budwood facility in Chiefland to provide growers with the resources they need to replant lost trees. We just opened a new germplasm facility in Lacrosse, which will enable us to release up to 30 new varieties per year. We’re committed to save Florida’s citrus, but we must work together toward this goal. History has proven that Florida’s citrus industry can overcome the challenges that come its way. Furthermore, one of America’s favorite beverages, as well as its economic impact and the jobs it supports, are too precious to let go. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Grove Equipment’s Customer Days In times past, a farmer or agriculturalist, would seek field help in the form of oxen and donkeys and other beasts of burden. They’d tediously till the ground as they walked behind the beasts. Now, in this age of advancement, farmers and agriculturalists are blessed with motorized help. Recently, Grove Equipment got the chance to preview and demonstrate some of the newest products on the market. We spoke with Alvie Still, the Store Manager at the Plant City office, to get the scoop. Alvie provided a little background information and history. He told us, “Grove Equipment is a family owned business; I guess they’ve been in business some-odd 43 years. We sell agricultural farm equipment. Our main brand is Massey Ferguson. We also sell Mahindra brand tractors; the implements are Bush Hog and Woods. We are actually one of the largest Massey Ferguson dealers in the state of Florida. We have two stores, our home office and store is in Bartow, and the store in Plant City is the second store. It’s been here 20 years and I’ve been here 14 years. I’ve been doing this since 1979. I was in business for myself and then my father desired to retire so I came to work here for David McKeeman, and his son, Robby. They are the owners of the family-run company. His father, Bob McKeeman started Grove Equipment.” We asked Alvie to tell us about Customer Days they recently sponsored. He explained, “Massey Ferguson chooses some of its top dealers throughout the country. They have this program they call New Horizons to introduce new products. Government regulations have forced everybody in the agricultural industry to meet these new Tier 4 emissions requirements and along with that, Massey Ferguson has introduced new products, new tractors and new models that are compliant with that. They chose thirteen dealers in the United States to be part of the New Horizon’s group and we were fortunate enough for them to select us to be one. It was to bring down product specialists, service and parts specialists to introduce a product to make people aware of the new features and new designs.” In case you didn’t know, Tier 4 emissions standards were signed by the EPA on May 11, 2004. However, they’re being phased into effect over the time period of 2008-2015. Ultimately, these new standards require that emissions of NOx and PM be 90% reduced. The way to do this requires control technologies like advanced exhaust gas after treatment. The concept is to make emissions from farming equipment (and other large pieces of equipment) more comparable to those standards instituted for highway vehicles. This is quite WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
By Ginny Mink
an endeavor and Massey Ferguson wanted to show potential customers that it was up to the challenge thereby providing an exceptional product introduction experience for all who attended the luncheon. We were curious about attendance, and exactly what the luncheon entailed, so we asked Alvie to give us an overview. He shared, “I’m going guess there were probably 30 there. The venue was at the Hilton Garden Inn on the Lakeland Airport. We set up to have our lunch there and one of the senior marketing specialists made a slide presentation going over the products. Then we went out and did ride and drive time on the different models of tractors and they answered any questions pertaining to the different models as far as application, horsepower, what the tractors would be suited to do in the agricultural industry. We had several tractors out there to drive. We had the 5613, a 4608, a model 2615, a 1736, a GC2410.” He paused then, recalling each and every model, and then with excitement added, “We had a 6615 with a loader! Karen Berry, publisher of In The Field, rode in it. It’s a big tractor and it will travel like 35 miles an hour! It has what they call a CVT transmission where you actually don’t feel any shifting or anything. It has all the modern controls and features. It’s just a really high-tech tractor. It was the best one there by far. It was the one everybody had interest in.” With all the hype he used to describe it, I’m a little sorry I missed the opportunity! He continued describing the turnout, “The people that attended were from various industries. We had blueberry growers, strawberry growers, road side mowing contractors, cattle ranchers and municipalities; the city of Lakeland was in attendance, too. AGCO Corporation, which owns Massey Ferguson, was there. There were probably eight reps which ranged from product specialists, finance specialists, parts and service.” Each of the AGCO attendees were there for the sole purpose of answering questions and demonstrating products. It was apparent that they wanted to make their new technologies user friendly and showcase their move to meet Tier 4 standards. Those interested in learning more about the tractors that were exhibited can visit the Grove Equipment website at: www.groveequipment.biz . You are more than welcome to call Grove for any additional assistance. The Plant City store’s number is (813) 759-8722, or if you’d like to speak to someone in Bartow please call (863) 537-1345. The people at Grove Equipment are there to serve your agricultural equipment needs and would love to talk to you. Give them a call! INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
19
IN BUSINESS NOW FOR OVER 15 YEARS
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
NEW, USED and ABUSED!
HOME & MOBILE HOME SUPPLIES • Code Approved Windows • Window Rooms • Screen Rooms • Carports • Awnings • Wood Paneling • Steps • Alcoa® Vinyl Siding • Skirting • Doors (Interior & Exterior) ake We M w Windo s n Scree
WW LD MAG ZINE.COM 20W . I N T H E FINI TEHE FIELD MAAGAZINE
August 2014
813
752-3378
• Roof Overs • Metal Roofing • Shower Stalls • Complete Line of Plumbing • Trim Moulding • Vanities • Kitchen Cabinets • Antiques • Stepping Stones/Pavers
2670 Hwy. 92 E Plant City, FL (Between Lakeland and Plant City)
OPEN SATURDAYS: 8:30-5:00 www.brokeandpoorpc@aol.com
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE ANUARY 2013 21 WWW.INTJHE FIELDMAGAZINE.COM
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
21
Left Handed People I have always been a southpaw, and my handwriting is terrible. Thank goodness for the typewriter. My left-handed writing is used mostly to pay our monthly bills. On a more positive note, right-handed people use the left side of their brains. Left-handed people use the right sides of their brains. I guess that means only left-handed people are in their right mind. There’s no denying it, left-handers are the odd men out. Sure, lefties make up about 10 percent of the population, but, frankly, it seems like society has forgotten about them with right-handed gadgets, awkwardly designed desks, cooking tools that fit comfortably in your right hand (now that’s just wrong!). What causes someone to become a southpaw? Scientists aren’t exactly sure, but research points to a complex collaboration between genes and environment. While no exact set of “leftie genes” have been discovered, people who dominantly use their left hands do have more left-handed family members. And researchers have found different brain wirings in righties vs. lefties. But no matter what it is that drives someone to use their left paw, science has also uncovered a particular set of personality traits that left-handed people tend to have. So for all of you lefties, leftie-loving righties and ambidextrous folks out there it’s time to brush up on your left-handed knowledge and help put an end to leftie discrimination once and for all. Being left-handed puts me in the minority, but at least I am in good company. Famous people and celebrities such as Ronald Reagan, George Bush, Bill Clinton, Dr. Albert Schweitzer, Jay Leno, Mark Twain, Natalie Cole and Whoopie Goldberg were/are left-handed. Men are one-and-half-times more likely to be southpaws than women. I found some interesting facts about being left-handed. The nails on the left hand tend to grow faster than on the right hand. The Egyptians thought is was good luck to enter a house left foot first. Of the five people that designed the Macintosh computer, four were lefthanded. Benjamin Franklin signed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution with his left hand. A few years back Burger King published a full page advertisement in the April 1st edition of USA Today announcing the introduction of a new item to their menu: a “Left-Handed Whopper” specially designed for the 32 million left-handed Americans. According to the advertisement, the new whopper included the same ingredients as the original Whopper, but all the condiments were rotated 180 degrees for the benefit of their left-handed customers. The following day Burger King issued a follow-up release revealing that the LeftHanded Whopper was a hoax, and thousands of customers had gone into their restaurants to request the new sandwich. At the same time, 22
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
according to the press release, “many others requested their own ‘right-handed’ version.” Believe it or not the farming industry has a lot of left-handed equipment. Left-handed plows, hoes, and many more. They even make a left-handed sawmill! Have you ever noticed while sitting on the pot that 95% of the time the toilet roll holder is on the right side of you and so close you can barely unwind it? Not sure who named it, but there is a town in West Virginia named Left Hand. It has only one service station and more than 200 graveyards within 20 miles. Looney Cemetery is one of the oldest on the side of a mountain. Over the years some of the land has eroded away sending some of the buried down the side of the mountain. According to ABC News, lefties “are more likely to be schizophrenic, alcoholic, delinquent, dyslexic, and have Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as mental disabilities. They’re also more likely to die young and get into accidents.” An indirect consequence of that fun little tidbit is that lefties are also far more qualified to make a joke about all those things. And doesn’t who a good dyslexia joke love? Getting out of bed with the left foot first means that you will have a bad day and be bad tempered, i.e. getting out of bed on the wrong side. A ringing in the right ear means that someone is praising you, in the left ear it means that someone is cursing or maligning you. An itchy right palm means that you will receive money. An itchy left palm means you will have to give money. Wedding rings worn on the third finger of the left hand originated with the Greeks and Romans who wore them to fend of evil associated with the left-hand. The right hand often symbolises ‘male’ while the left hand is ‘female.’ If you hear the sound of a cuckoo from the right it will be a lucky year. If the sound comes from the left it will be unlucky. If your right eye twitches you will see a friend, if it’s your left eye that twitches you’ll see an enemy. When dressmaking, it’s believed to be bad luck to sew the left sleeve onto a garment before the right sleeve. It is thought to be bad luck to pass a drink to another person with your left-hand or anticlockwise around a table. If you apply an ointment with the forefinger of the right hand the sore will not heal. This is because this finger is said to be the ‘poison’ finger. Passing or pouring wine with the left hand leads to bad luck. Driving on the left started so that horse riders could use their whips in the right-hand to fend off other road users. The left hand does worst in the parable of the sheep and goats. The sheep are set on Christ’s right hand and the goats on the left. Those on the right inherit the kingdom of god while those on the left depart into everlasting fire (to quote Matthew 25: verse 41: “Then he will say unto those on the left hand, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” Studies have shown that left-handers are more likely to have allergies than right-handers. There you have it. That’s all I know about being left-handed. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
• TILE • STONE • WOOD • LAMINATE • VINYL • CARPET • CULTURED STONE • PAVERS
Come Visit Our Showroom on Main Street in Bartow 115 1st Ave N., Bartow, FL 33830 FREE ESTIMATES
863-533-2992
www.flooringbyjmi .com
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
23
S Bar S A Little Slice of Heaven By Melissa Nichols Like an excerpt out of the famed Patrick Smith book, A Land Remembered, is the story of the Hancock Family and their ranch. The history of the land goes back 6 generations, back to the late 1800s. A day in time when life was much simpler, when cattle ran free and you settled on land instead of buying it. Back before the Civil War when the north and the south were divided, a family came from Georgia looking for a better life and settled in an area of central Florida, this area is modern day North Lakeland (Historic Socrum). William Henry Hancock traveled to Florida with everything he owned and his family in a horse drawn wagon. He built a homestead and began his life farming, raising cattle and living off the land. After being passed down through the generations, Angela “Angel” Fenton Slappey still lives on the land they settled. Much of it is as untouched as it was 140 years ago. This land is a place where you step back in time and leave your troubles behind, it is simple yet amazing, it is history and heritage, and it is the true Florida Flatwoods. Angel Fenton Slappey is the daughter of the late Jarold Fenton. She grew up in Polk County, graduated high school here, and has deep roots in the agricultural community. Angel spent much of her childhood working on the family ranch and taking care of her sister Anita “Nita” Fenton. Although Nita was older than Angel, she was special needs and Angel was not only her sister but also her mother figure, they had a very special bond. Nita passed away in 1996, leaving an empty place in Angel’s heart. After high school Angel worked for Cattlemen’s livestock market for many years. When she was 28 years old Angel met the man of her dreams, Billy Slappey. Billy has also been a lifelong Polk County resident. They were married the following year. Angel and Billy truly are soul mates and best friends. Billy and Jarold quickly hit it off and Jarold began teaching Billy every24
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
thing he knew about raising cattle, and having a ranch. Jarold was happy to see how eager Billy was to learn about the life he lived on the ranch and was very fond of Billy. Jarold and Billy shared not only the love of Angel but also the love of the life on the ranch. Just as Jarold Fenton adored Billy, the Slappey Family welcomed Angel with open arms. Just a few short years after they were married, Jarold passed away. After the passing of her father Angel and her husband Billy Slappey began working on Jarold’s lifelong dream, to open their land up to others, to experience life of yesteryear and what used to be. Life in the flatwoods off the dirt road of historic Socrum is something few people can understand, it is simple, it is amazing and it is southern flatwoods beauty. Angel has lived on the land her entire life, and her dad his. The land known to others as S Bar S Ranch is one of the few original plantations left in Polk County, it is historic, natural and breath taking. Angel has a deep love for this land and after her husband Billy retired from Publix in 2012, she finally was able to begin working on her dads dream to turn S Bar S to an Agritourism venue, and a wedding barn. Billy and Angel cleaned up the old hay and tractor barn, and gave it a minor facelift, to open up their beloved barn to others as a wedding facility, using the name S Bar S her late Great Great Uncle Simion Hancock and his brother Buddy Hancock’s cattle brand. Angel and Billy have spent countless hours planning and orWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
chestrating how this dream could become a reality. They have enlisted some of their closest friends and family to assist with this plan and in 2014 they officially opened S Bar S Barn Weddings. S Bar S is a unique and one of a kind wedding facility, being built on tradition and the love of the land, every wedding is sure to be unforgettable. The wedding barn is rustic yet elegant enough for a fairytale wedding. They are able to accommodate everything from the ordinary to the extraordinary wedding. Their all inclusive wedding package offers full service catering, a wedding planner, hair and makeup artist, a DJ, a wedding minister, plants, table décor, centerpieces and table clothes, horse drawn carriage, seating, archway, bartending services and much more. They also offer a preferred list of vendors that are not included in their wedding package, such as the wedding cake, florist, photographer, live band, photo booth rental and videographer. Much of the décor is authentic and been in the Fenton-Hancock family for many generations. The S Bar S staff pride themselves on offering a stress free wedding for the bride and groom and their families. Their goal is to make your wedding day perfect! The S Bar S staff is a team and a family, not all bound together by blood, but of a love of the land and a love of agriculture. They all work together to make every detail come to life. The wedding planner is Sherry Spurlock, who helps with the planning, coordinating and organizing the entire wedding, as well as decorating the day of. Sherry decorates and prepares every detail for the big event. Shelby Freeman, Sherry’s daughter, is the bridal makeup artist and hair designer. Shelby does an amazing job ensuring the bridal party has their hair done and makeup perfect prior to walking down the aisle. Shelby also helps with decorating, and planning. Ranch hands Clint Slappey and James Slappey help with every day operations of the ranch and wedding barn. Sammy Fasson is Angel’s Godfather and her late father’s lifelong friend. Sammy has been inspirational with the overall WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
business plan. Kevin Davis is the Executive Chef, he can prepare any meal the bride and groom chose, from prime rib to barbeque. Angel and Billy manage both ranch and wedding barn, they oversee all activities, meet with the bride and groom and assist them along the way. There isn’t a wedding that goes on at S Bar S that the entire staff is not involved with. When Billy and Angel are not busy with planning for a wedding, they are taking care of their plethora of animals. S Bar S Ranch is a working cattle ranch, with a cow/calf operation that produces some outstanding beef cattle. Angel also raises Cur dogs, their bloodline has been in her family since her dad was a young cowboy. Cur dogs are known to be excellent cattle working dogs, Angel recalls as a kid growing up people would contact her dad from all over wanting to buy a Cur dog. She proudly carries on her dad’s Cur bloodline and still today continues to raise them. Billy and Angel also have “pets” such as their small herd of Longhorn Cattle and Registered Cracker Cows, Angel’s pet pig “Bacon” that comes when she calls his name and weighs nearly 500 lbs., and her mini donkeys. In addition to their pets, lots of wildlife visits the ranch, from wild turkey to deer and everything in between. You never know what you will see when visiting, which is one of the things that makes this ranch so unforgettable. With sunsets that look like they are straight out of a magazine, to true southern hospitality, S Bar S wedding barn is a little slice of heaven here in Polk County, Florida. It has been said “In the Old Florida Flatwoods, you go back in time and leave your troubles behind.” And I couldn’t agree more, it’s a beautiful place to visit, an amazing wedding venue and once you are there, you don’t want to leave. Contact Angel at 863-661-1365 or check them out on Facebook at S Bar S Barn Weddings today to make an appointment to come see their barn and get planning your dream wedding. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
25
All Of Ser ving orida Fl Central
• • • •
New Installations Septic Pumping Drain Field Repairs Lift Stations
863-668-7264
Septic
Lic#SR0890218
FREE ESTIMATES
Re s i d e n tia Commer l & cial
• • • •
Grease Traps Fill Dirt Culvert Pipes Septic Inspections
“Your Septic Specialists”
www.southeasternseptic.com
We Help Your Business
GROW.
Web Design Graphic Design Lead Generation Online Marketing Content Development Branding exocreative.com 929.500.1396 301 S. Collins Street, Plant City 26
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
27
FREE RIDE! by Sheriff Grady Judd
Shoplifting is a serious problem. One of our recent cases is an example: 30-year-old Michael Pierce and 23-year-old Dustin Irwin were arrested July 1 at the South Lakeland Walmart after they were seen selecting and concealing merchandise (batteries, a flashlight, and two pairs of Dr. Dre Beats Headphones). They bypassed an anti-shoplifting devise to steal the headphones. Detectives believe the two have been methodically stealing merchandise from area retailers. A Walmart Loss Prevention Officer observed the two enter the store and proceed to the electronics section. Both were observed—and recorded on video—selecting and concealing merchandise. When deputies inventoried their jeep in the parking lot, additional new merchandise was recovered—detectives are investigating from where this merchandise was stolen. Irwin has an extensive criminal history to include arrests for burglary, theft, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of narcotics, carrying a concealed weapon, and aggravated assault. He was on felony probation for burglary and larceny. Pierce had an extensive criminal history that included multiple arrests for burglary of a conveyance, retail theft, possession of cannabis, possession of drug paraphernalia, robbery with firearm, and false verification to a pawnbroker. Both were charged with Organized Retail Crime and manipulating an anti-shoplifting device. Irwin was additionally charged with violation of his felony probation status. These two thieves are a part of a larger trend of Organized Retail Crime (ORC). Retail theft isn’t what it used to be. Now it can be a sophisticated, organized effort to steal, re-sell, or obtain store credits which are often re-sold. Organized Retail Crime (ORC) has become a huge problem in Florida and across the nation. These criminals steal 30 Billion Dollars 28
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
annually in the United States. You and I are being ripped off by these thieves every time we shop. How? The organized retail criminal is driving prices higher by systematically and strategically taking advantage of our open and trusting society. We must stop thinking of shoplifting as simply an insignificant misdemeanor crime. Through our investigations we have found that these low level shoplifters are also: burglars, violent thugs, drug dealers and addicts, and even sexual predators. Put these criminals in jail, and we can prevent more crime than just shoplifting. We’ve found that these criminals are attracted to ORC because the risk has been low. We are working with retailers in Polk County to increase that risk. Most retailers here are no longer “catching and releasing” shoplifters. They are calling us, and we are giving them a free ride to the Polk County Jail. In fact, we have partnered with the leaders in the retail industry and created a new way to deal with this growing problem – an Organized Retail Crime Task Force. The alliance between retailers and law enforcement makes it possible to effectively break apart retail crime organizations with rapid response techniques. Our message is simple to potential criminals in Polk County: If you steal from a Polk County store and get caught, you are going to jail and we are going to work hard to hold you accountable in the criminal justice system. Just so the message is absolutely clear, we now have posters in several retail stores throughout the county advertising a “Free Ride” to the county jail – contact us at 298-6677 if you’d like to see one hanging in your place of business. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Polk County 4-H Member Competes Bartow Tractor Supply Store Wins in National 4-H Archery Contest Class Award for Efforts in 4-H Fundraising Campaign Local 4-H member, Ryan Waldman, competed in the Recurve Archery division and placed 7th overall individual at the 2014 National 4-H Shooting Sports Invitational. Ryan was also a member of the Florida 4-H Recurve Archery team who placed 3rd overall team. The National 4-H Shooting Sports Invitational was held June 24-29, 2014 in Grand Island, Nebraska.
The Bartow Tractor Supply Company (TSC) store was recently recognized for winning the “Class Champion” award for meeting the company’s goals during the 4-H/TSC Spring 2014 Paper Clover Promotion. Store employees at the Bartow TSC store had at least 20% of all transactions include a 4-H Paper Clover purchase and raised over $300 for 4-H. They will Ryan qualified for the national competition by placing fourth be presented with a certificate and ribbon from Polk County at the Florida 4-H archery contest held on March 8, 2014. Daily 4-H to recognize this achievement. practices and team practice sessions helped him exceed his goal which was to place in the top 10 at the national competition. The 4-H/TSC Paper Clover Campaign is a nationwide, instore fundraiser that benefits 4-H programming in the com"I had the time of my life at Nationals. It was an honor to rep- munities where a TSC store is located. Collectively, the fall resent Polk County and the State of Florida. Thank you to ev- campaign raised over $750,000 that supports 4-H on the loeryone who supported me in this adventure, "commented Ryan. cal, state, and national level. During the twelve day promotion, the Bartow, Haines City, Lakeland, and Lake Wales TSC Ryan has been a 4-H member for five years total with three stores participated in the fundraising campaign. of those years in the Bullseye 4-H Club in Winter Haven. Polk County 4-H is proud to recognize Ryan for his dedication and The effort has provided direct support for local camps, afteraccomplishments. Sponsorship for his trip was awarded from the school programs and other activities, and has granted scholPolk County 4-H Foundation and the Polk County 4-H Shooting arships to these events that youth can explore their interests Sports Committee. in everything from animal science to robotics. In Polk County, the Paper Clover funds have gone to support programming National 4-H Shooting Sports Invitational Results: http://4h. for 4-H clubs and volunteer development. unl.edu/ntlshootingsportsinvitational/results National 4-H Shooting Sports Program Website: http://www.4hshootingsports.org/ . WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
For more information, visit www.tractorsupply.com/4h.
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
29
30 30
IIN NT THE HEF FIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
JAuly ugust 2014 2014
WWW. WWW.IIN NT THE HEF FIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
For Greater Performance And Profit!
High Yield Fruiting Vegetables To BioCharge Traditional Programs
AT PLANTING Power Coat impregnated on bulk dry fertilizer • Banded • Broadcast
PowerCoat™
Enhancing Bulk Dry Rate - 1 gal/ton Fertilizer 3-4 times per year
• In furrow PowerBlend™ • Drip Blending With • Injection Bulk Liquid • 16-32 oz/acre Fertilizer Every 2-4 weeks in soil thereafter (not less than 16 oz/acre/month)
Tomato - Holden Research & Consulting Gavilan tomato variety This graph reflects that the Pathway Biologic treatment had an increase in yield even with a 25% reduction in fertilizer usage. The benefit is two-fold - Environmental (best management practices) and lowered cost to grower.
80.5 80 79.5 79 78.5 78 77.5 77 76.5 76
AT PLANTING Manage stand alone
AT PLANTING Power Blend with bulk liquid fertilizer
80.23 tons/acre
77.61 tons/acre
Control Std fertilizer protocol
Treated 25% fertilizer reduction
• In furrow • Drip • Injection • 1/2 lb/acre Every 2-4 weeks in soil - ¼ lbs/acre Every 2-4 weeks foliar - ¼ lbs/acre
Pathway’s microbial products & solutions function to create bio-chemical pathways to convert nutrients like only bacteria can. Bacteria can enable a plant to achieve its genetic potential, optimizing the performance of fertilizer. Key benefits from Pathway’s microbial products for Agriculture include: • Increase yields and decreased production loses • Uniform plant growth and fruiting for increased product marketability • Enhanced color, better taste and longer shelf life • Increase plant tolerance to the damaging affects of environmental extremes, disease and other plant pressures • BMP compliance with balanced soil biology
Pathway BioLogic | 111 E. Tever Street, Plant City, Florida | 813.719.7284 www.PathwayBioLogic.com WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
31
Don’t Kill the Bees: Pat’s Apiaries By Ginny Mink
There is truly nothing sweeter than the liquid gold we refer to as honey. I can’t tell you how deeply I adore this natural tonic. Honey has infinite healing qualities and is a prize possession in any pantry. Sadly, we are seeing a drastic decrease in our honeybee populations and so it’s imperative that we support local honey producers, or beekeepers, and their facilities, better known as apiaries. We recently had the privilege of speaking with Jan and Pat Allen, owners of Pat’s Apiaries in Auburndale. The history? Pat shared, “We had bees in New York before we moved down here. We brought three hives with us because that’s what we had up there. We decided when we first got here that to help our retirement a little bit, we’d make a little money and sell the honey. It’s just grown from there. That was two, three years ago.” Jan interjected, “It was 2012.”
to increase our hive count and that was working good. Then our honey started selling faster than we could maintain so we had to start increasing. So we just decided to turn it into a business, a full business that’s where we do pollination and everything.” Jan added, “We started with just a few little local markets and that little group of local markets has just exploded, too. They’ve just sort of taken off. It was one little one in Winter Haven and then that has grown to a huge one in Lakeland on the first and third Saturday. Winter Haven’s on the fourth and we’re going to be in Haines City on the second. They’ve just grown, grown, grown.” Pat interjected, “We do Market World in Auburndale, too.” Jan continued, “Our main store, where we’re always at, is at the International Market in Auburndale. While Pat’s tending that one on the weekends, on Saturdays, I do the other four. So our honey sales have really exploded.”
Pat continued, “It was a hobby in New York. As a kid growing up into my adult life, I had always wanted to have bees and when I got the opportunity to be given a swarm I just happened to have a box that was old and dilapidated. We put them in that box and from then on I’ve had bees. That’s been about seven years now. It was a lot harder to make honey up north than it is down here. A lot of short seasons and not a lot of opportunity to put your bees where there would be a good flow going on.”
The business has grown significantly. Pat told us, “We’re right at a hundred hives right now. We move ‘em around. I’ve actually got to move sixty some of them now.”
How did three hives turn into a full-fledged apiary?
Pat said, “Yeah, we do bee removals. We spread out a bit when we do that, we’ve done ‘em from Orlando all the way to Tampa. I did two yesterday.”
Pat answered, “We decided to start doing a few bee removals 32
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
Jan added, “We’re doing some pollination contracts now with blueberries and vegetables. So we did that this past year. That’s when we end up moving them a lot.” What about bee removals?
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Jan specified, “Well, a removal can be several different ways, we’ve cut them out of people’s walls, we’ve cut them out of their floors, but there’s also a way that you can trap them out of like block walls where you can’t destroy the wall. They can be trapped out and then the entrance where they’re going in can be sealed up to keep them from going in again. So, there’s different ways to remove bees.” The real question we wanted answered about bee removal was in reference to extermination. The loss of the bee population is particularly poignant to this honey lover. Do they kill the bees they remove? The emphatic, “NO!” that resounded from both Pat and Jan was reassuring. Pat said, “We built our apiary just by doing cutouts.” Jan affirmed him saying, “Pretty much we’ve built it by taking the bees and relocating them. We don’t kill them. One third of the world’s bee population is now gone.” Pat added, “In the past six months we’ve had four exterminators contact us to remove bees for them so that they don’t have to kill them.” Jan continued, “And they called us to do that simply because they have decided they don’t want to kill honey bees any longer; so I think that’s awesome!” What about the fear of “Africanized” bees? Pat responded, “Well, I’ve been removing bees for two years now down here and so far I haven’t run into an Africanized colony of bees. I haven’t seen an African colony yet.” Jan added, “There can be an aggressive hive that is not Africanized. Some bees are more aggressive than others but there’s only way to tell whether a bee is an Africanized bee and that’s by DNA testing.” Pat added, “They look identical to our honeybees and when you get into an Africanized hive they’re all over you instantly. All of the bee removals I’ve been on, swarms will get aggressive the first time you open up and you can see the comb, but when you start cutting and removing their house, their whole demeanor changes. They go right into I-gotta-save-this mode and start gathering up the dripping honey and stop and forget all about you unless you happen to pinch one. It’s amazing how they act.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
How do you take a beehive off a house and put it in a box? Pat answered, “Most of the time their comb is flat. Even in the wild it’s flat, or under the floor it’s flat. In this heat, if it’s bent a little bit you can straighten it to make it fit in the frame because the wax is soft. As hot as it is right now to handle that wax, it’ll actually crush in your hand it’s so soft.” Jan explained further, “So what he does is remove it and put it into a frame and then put those frames into a box.” Pat continued, “I use rubber bands to hold the comb into the frame. If you find the queen and put her in a queen cage and lot of times if you just set her in the box on top of the frame she’ll run down in. Once you put that queen in that box every bee in that hive is going to go inside that box because that’s where the boss is, that’s where the queen is. That’s what they do, they follow her.” Jan interjected, “He actually has a bee vac and when he can, he vacuums them right into the hive. Every situation kind of turns out to be unique in some way. There’s really no set way to do it so you have to apply different techniques to each situation because they get into some funny places.” Pat chuckled and added, “They will work your mind. They keep your mind sharp.” Jan gave us an example, “We went to Apollo Beach to a house where the bees had gotten into an upside down cooler and built a big hive. All we did was go and turn the cooler over carefully, put the top on it and close up the drain hole where they were going in. That’s one of his projects today, to relocate them into a box. Every situation is different.” In closing, Pat told us, “A lot of people call now that don’t want to have them killed. We get calls every day.” Jan supported that sentiment and shed some light on the gravity of the situation, “People are beginning to wake up. There’s a statistic that if they were all to go away today, it would be eight to ten years before we had no food sources.” If you are in need of honey, pollination or bee removal
(without extermination)
call Jan and Pat at Pat’s Apiaries: (863) 662-5057 (518) 578-2283. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
33
Something’s Fishy- Imperial Tropicals
By Ginny Mink I told her to get dressed and then I met her in her room where I’d chosen a pair of shorts and a butterfly t-shirt (she loves butterflies). “I don’t want to wear that!” She announced, sharply. Instead she went to her closet and pulled a pink (butterfly) dress from its hanger, “I want to wear this,” she told me, “It will be great for Meet the Minks!” The smile on her face made it impossible for me to disagree. At least she was cool with putting boots on. As we drove to Lakeland from our Seffner residence Hazel questioned from her car seat, “Where are we going?” I told her it was a surprise, as I always do. “Will there be cow poop?” She questioned, an air of irritation in her tone. Her big brother, Jaidyn, laughed from the back seat. “No cow poop,” he told her. She continued her, “Where are we going?” and “Are we there yet?” questions untiled I pulled onto the dirt road. “We’re here!” She squealed. Although, from the rearview mirror reflection I could tell she had no idea where “here” was. Having never been to a fish farm, all the ponds surrounding the dirt road didn’t give the destination away. Jaidyn wanted to know, “Is that it?” He was definitely disappointed, assuming he’d just be walking around looking at water-filled holes in the ground. I smiled. This wasn’t my first fish farm. We went the wrong way and ended up having to be really careful not to fall into a ditch, but when I was finally able to park, the excitement from the back of the van was tangible. I could almost feel their little heads swinging back and forth as they imagined what was in those white canvas-roofed buildings. We arrived at Imperial Tropicals at 9:30 and got a grand tour of their facilities. Imperial Tropicals is a family owned fish farm established in 1970. They cater to wholesalers and hobbyists. This allows people interested in purchasing fresh water tropical fish to order them online and have them shipped to their doors. Orders over $30 receive free shipping and we can attest to the beauty of the fish Mike Drawdy and his crew are breeding.
We entered the first section of covered buildings and were instantly accosted by the heat! It was still early in the morning, but the humidity produced by the giant vats of fish was stifling. We all started to sweat. “Mom, what is this?” Hazel questioned, it was her turn to be disappointed. I directed her to look into the concrete tanks. Her eyes grew wide. “There’s fish in there!” she screeched. Mike allowed her to feed the fish and each tank she got to throw pellets into was a new level of excitement for her. He joked that he’d have to hire her to feed the fish since she loved it so much.
34 34
IINNTTHE HEFFIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
JAune 2014 ugust 2014
Zeke was a little out of his element as he was strapped in the stroller and the view of concrete walls was really not that thrilling. However, when Mike took us to the koi ponds, Jaidyn decided to lift Zeke up (while still in his stroller) so that he could see them. The koi were quite entertaining because they came to the surface with their mouths open wide to swallow up the pellets Hazel was dispensing. Zeke clapped his hands and stared, wide-eyed, at the thrashing orange and whites. Finally we entered a room full of clear glass aquariums and that was great for them all because the fish were readily visible in the glass tanks. Zeke put his hands to the glass thinking he might be able to touch them. Mike told Hazel and Jaidyn to stick their fingers in one of the tanks and the wee little fish therein went to nibbling. She giggled. Jaidyn was enthralled. Again they got to feed the fish, which Hazel later admitted, “was the best part!” I tried to get some commentary from each of them as we left the property but the best statements didn’t come until later, when we went to lunch with Mammaw. Hazel told her about the experience, “It was so cool! There were millions of fish. And I got to feed them!” Yep, that about sums it up, it was so cool and there were literally millions of fish and yes, Hazel and Jaidyn, got to feed them. I do want to tell you my side of the story though. I come from a family that often had aquariums, both fresh and salt water. So, on some level I know a little about the “hobby.” However, when I was a kid, the best looking freshwater fish were the Angelfish and swordtails, maybe a neon here or there. Now, there’s such a vast array of vibrant colors I am hugely tempted to consider beginning my own aquarium. There was one fish that really caught my eye with its shimmery blue tint and spotted body, the venustus. Look it up, it’s gorgeous. Oh and one other, another blue one, the maingano. These are both African cichlids and absolutely stunning, worthy of consideration. If you’re interested in getting into the fresh water fish world (or you are already in it) then you would certainly benefit from visiting the Imperial Tropicals website: www.imperialtropicals.com. There are plenty of pictures and while some nurseries don’t use photos that are truly representative of what they have in stock, we’ve been to their 20 acre farm and can vouch for the photogenic quality of their fish. Check ‘em out and tell ‘em the Minks sent you! *If you’d like us to visit your farm, or agricultural venue, as a potential Meet the Minks story, please contact me at ginnymink@gmail. com.*
WWW. WWW.IIN NTTHE HEFFIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
2014 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association Summer Dinner
WWW. WWW.IIN NTTHE HEFFIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
IINNTTHE HEFFIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
A August ugust 2014 2014
35 35
Florida FFA Hall of Fame to Induct Five in 2014
The Florida FFA is pleased to announce the 2014 FFA Hall of Fame Inductees. The inductees are James Edward Jeffries, Archie and Emelie Matthews, Marion Caradine Riviere, Leon A. Sims and Olin Thomas Stoutamire. The recipients will be inducted into the Florida FFA Hall of Fame during the 8th annual awards celebration Monday, September 29 at the Florida FFA Leadership Training Center near Haines City.
James “Jim” Jeffries of Plant City taught agricul-
ture education in Florida middle and high schools for two decades before becoming supervisor of agribusiness and natural resources education for the Hillsborough County School District where he served for another two decades.
Archie Matthews served as a district director of the Florida FFA Alumni Association for two decades and wrote a book that promotes Florida’s agriculture industry and its impact on everyday life. Emelie Matthews is involved in FFA activities as Archie, taking on roles at the Florida FFA State Convention, including registration, information, and election procedures. Archie and Emelie currently reside in Alachua, Florida. Marion C. “Bud” Riviere served as Florida FFA
Association Executive Secretary before becoming principal at Gainesville Agribusiness Center where his program became a national model for instructing agriscience students. He later became dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Education at Chipola College. Riviere recently retired and now resides in Clanton, Alabama.
Leon A. Sims
of Tallahassee, was an agriculture
teacher for many years before joining the Florida Department of Education’s Vocational Division in 1966, where he served in many capacities until 1989. He was inducted into the Florida Vocational Association Hall of Fame in 1993.
Olin Thomas “Tom” Stoutamire of Hosford, Florida, spent 13 years as the agriculture teacher at Sebring High School. He worked for more than 20 years as an Area Agricultural Education Supervisor with the Florida Department of Education, supervising agriculture education programs and FFA activities. “We are proud to honor these wonderful leaders for their commitment and dedication to the Florida FFA over the years,” said Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam. “Their efforts have helped the FFA in our state to better educate students, parents and entire communities about the importance of Florida’s agriculture industry.” Bill Hamm, President of the Florida FFA Foundation Board of Directors states “these individuals are to be highly commended for their years of service and dedication to the enhancement of agricultural education and FFA.” If you have questions, need further information or would like to purchase tickets to this prestigious event, contact Gary Bartley at 863-439-7332 x 6321 or ggbartley@hotmail.com. FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.
July 17, 2014 was the 98th anniversary of President Woodrow Wilson signing the Federal Farm Loan Act in 1916, which created what is today the Farm Credit System. To celebrate, Farm Credit of Central Florida offices had a commemorative cake baked by Special Assets Loan Officer, Jessica Slaughter (Center). Joining the celebration are FCCF President & CEO, Reggie Holt (L) and Executive VP & Chief Credit Officer, Craig Register (Right).
36
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
deed restrictions dealing with landscape issues; pruning practices; problem plants such as invasive, non-native plants; pesticide and fertilization practices; plant nutritional deficiencies; mulch application; and irrigation system issues including frequency and timing of applications. Other frequent areas of interest cited by communities participating in the FFL Community Association Outreach Program have included stormwater pond best management practices, dealing with erosion caused by stormwater runoff and questions involving reclaimed water. Evaluations and recommendations are based on science-based research from UF/IFAS. In addition to site evaluations, the Community Association Outreach Program offers onsite presentations about the FFL principles. The FFL Community Association Outreach Program is a free resource for HOAs and other community associations to provide for guidance in instituting sustainable landscape practices, reviewing landscaperelated covenants and working with landscape maintenance contractors. FFL has had several success stories with communities that adopted FFL practices from which they were able to see reduced water consumption and water utility and maintenance costs. Contact me at the Hillsborough County Extension Service, 813-744-5519 x 54142, if these services would benefit your homeowner or condominium association. For more information on environmental horticulture topics, contact your local County Extension Service. Additional information on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ can be accessed at http:/ /floridayards.org, http://fyn.ifas.ufl.edu and WaterMatters.org. The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Community Association Outreach Program is sponsored by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, the Hillsborough and Polk Boards of County Commissioners and the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 2014 INTHE FIELD MAGAZINE AJugust ANUARY 2013
3727
38
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Cattle • Truck Farming • Citrus • Game Hunting
1401 Sam Keen Road Lake, Wales, FL 33853 863.692.1013 We Support Agriculture.
Now Hiring Experienced Painters
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
39
Recipes
Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Lobster Carambola Citrus Salad
Chef Justin Timineri
DIRECTIONS 1. For dressing, bring orange juice to a boil in a saucepan, reducing liquid by 1/2. Cool in a small bowl.
2. Whisk in the orange juice, honey, oil and salt. Set aside.
3. On individual plates, arrange carambola slices, orange and grapefruit sections, lobster and black beans on salad greens.
INGREDIENTS 1 cup orange juice
4. Drizzle with orange salad dressing and serve.
2 tablespoons honey 1/4 cup canola oil 1 teaspoon salt 4 medium carambolas, sliced 1 cup orange sections 1 cup grapefruit sections 1 pound cooked lobster tail meat, sliced 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained salad greens, chilled
DIRECTIONS
Ingredients Black Bean Sliders 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 onion, finely chopped 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained 1/2 cup carrot, shredded 1/2 cup cornmeal 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon chili powder
Black Bean Sliders Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large nonstick skillet. Add onion and let cook until tender and slightly caramelized. Transfer onion to a large mixing bowl. To this bowl add beans, carrots, cornmeal, breadcrumbs, chili powder, salt, cilantro, and water. Use a large spoon or your hands to mash it all together. If the mixture is too dry to hold together add more water, one tablespoon at a time.
40 40
1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup water 14 slider-sized buns Spicy Orange Sauce 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt 1 tablespoon orange juice 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
Hand-form bean mixture into patties to match the size of the slider buns. Heat remaining oil in a large skillet and pan-fry patties about 3 minutes on each side, until lightly browned and crisp. Add more oil to the skillet as needed. Drain patties on absorbent paper. Dress with lettuce, tomato and Spicy Orange Sauce, and serve on slider buns. Spicy Orange Sauce Mix all ingredients together and serve on sliders.
Black Bean Sliders with Spicy Orange Sauce IINNTTHE HEFFIELD IELD M MAGAZINE AGAZINE
A August ugust 2014
WWW.IINNTTHE HEFFIELD IELDM MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM WWW.
Florida
Lima Beans
By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
Summertime in Florida may be hot, but the warmth provides a good climate for lima beans, pole beans, and butter beans to grow. Fresh Florida lima beans are in peak season now and are prized for their delicate flavor and buttery texture. Many varieties of lima beans exist and the Fordhook is the most popular type in the United States. The pod is roughly three inches long, flat, and curved. Inside the inedible pod are two to four kidney-shaped seeds, which are the lima beans. While the most common colors of lima beans are green, other varieties come in purple, speckled, red, brown, or white. Mild in flavor, lima beans are starchy in texture, much like a potato. Dried, canned, or frozen lima beans can be purchased year-round.
mineral is also a component of three other enzymes in the body and is involved in various metabolic reactions.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE Fresh Florida lima beans are as beautiful and delicious as they are nutritious! Lima beans are an excellent source of molybdenum and a very good source of dietary fiber, copper, and manganese. These legumes are also good sources of folate, phosphorus, protein, potassium, vitamin B1, iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6.
Protein Lima beans are a great vegetarian source of protein and contain a wide variety of amino acids. When combined with a grain, such as brown rice or whole wheat pasta, lima beans can be a complete protein, which contains all the essential amino acids necessary for the body’s functions. A one cup serving of cooked lima beans contains almost 15 grams of protein, in addition to fiber. Both protein and fiber provide long-lasting satiety. Another benefit of consuming this vegetarian source of protein is that lima beans contain almost no fat, and none of the harmful saturated fats found in meat.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one cup of cooked lima beans (188g) contains 216 calories, 14.7 g protein, 0.7 g fat, 39.3 g carbohydrate, and 13.2 g of dietary fiber. It also provides 313% of the Daily Recommended Value (%DV) for molybdenum 53% for dietary fiber, 49% for copper and manganese, 39% for folate, 29% for phosphorus, 27% for potassium, 25% for vitamin B1and iron, 20% for magnesium, and significant amounts of other minerals and vitamins. Soluble & Insoluble Fiber One serving of cooked lima beans provides more than half of your daily requirements for fiber. A one cup serving of lima beans contains 13.2 g of fiber, of which 9.7 g is the insoluble kind and 3.5 g is the soluble type. Both types of fiber have a myriad of health benefits, including lowering cholesterol and preventing blood sugar spikes after a meal. Lima beans have a low glycemic index, which means that glucose does not rise as high after consuming beans as it does some other starchy foods. In fact lima beans help to maintain blood sugar control due to high levels of fiber and protein, which slow absorption and prevent spikes in glucose. Additionally, fiber helps to prevent colon cancer and promote bowel regularity. Insoluble fiber is wellknown for its effects in preventing constipation, as well as in preventing diverticulosis and irritable bowel syndrome. Soluble fiber, also found in high amounts in foods such as oatmeal and apples, is powerful in lowering cholesterol. Molybdenum A single serving of lima beans contains a whopping 313% of your daily requirement of the trace mineral, molybdenum. This mineral is part of sulfite oxidase, an enzyme that detoxifies sulfites. People who are sensitive to sulfites (a preservative commonly added to prepared foods) may have headache or rapid heartbeat if they consume sulfites. Molybdenum helps counter these effects. This WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Iron This important mineral boosts your energy level and prevents anemia. A single cup of lima beans contains almost a quarter of your daily iron needs and is a great vegetarian, fat-free source of iron. Iron is an important part of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body and is also involved in metabolism. Iron is particularly important for those who are at risk of iron deficiency such as older adults, menstruating women, pregnant women, or those who follow a meat-restricted diet.
How to Select and Store Fresh lima beans are a summertime treat in Florida and their taste and texture is well worth the work of shelling them from the pods. Choose lima beans that are firm, deeply colored, and free of yellowing or wrinkling. Fresh lima beans can be stored for up to a few days in the refrigerator when kept whole in their pods. Once shelled, the beans become much more perishable. Dried lima beans can be stored for up to six months in a dark, cool place, and frozen ones can be stored for up to six months in an air-tight plastic bag in the freezer. How to Enjoy Before using fresh lima beans, rinse under running water and remove any debris. Soaking lima beans in water before cooking can reduce the type of carbohydrate associated with flatulence and can also shorten the cooking time. Dried lima beans should be soaked for at least six hours or overnight before cooking. Drain soaking water and rinse before cooking beans. Ways to enjoy lima beans include: Stir fry with ham and green leafy vegetables Use in a stew or casserole Mash and combine with mashed potatoes and other root vegetables Serve whole, boiled lima beans in the pod as you would edamame Puree lima beans with herbs for a fresh dip Roast in oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a crunchy snack Combine lima beans with carrots, potatoes, and turnips for a hearty vegetable soup SELECTED REFERENCES http://www.sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu http://www.whfoods.com INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
AAugust ugust 2014 2014
41
Warner University to host Water Conservation Symposium featuring Johnny Georges, founder of the tree T-PEE® and ABC’s Shark Tank entrepreneur Warner University, Lake Wales, FL, invites you to campus on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. for the Water Conservation Symposium featuring Johnny Georges, the creator of the tree T-PEE® and known for his appearance pitching the product on ABC’s Shark Tank in 2013. “The meeting will be an opportunity for the central Florida agricultural community to come together to discuss challenges facing water use in agriculture and collaborate on solutions for the future. We are excited to host the community for this event,” stated Lauren Cline, Director of Agricultural Development at Warner University. Georges will be taking questions from the audience and will speak about water containment and conservation for the citrus and agriculture industry. An entrepreneur from Arcadia, FL, Georges has spent his entire life around the citrus industry and is passionate to provide a water conservation solution to help growers. His invention, the tree T-PEE®, not only conserves water, but has been found through University of Florida research to also reduce fuel and fertilizer costs and promote strong root growth. In 2013, Georges ‘got a deal’ after pitching his product on ABC’s Shark Tank. Working with his partner, John Paul DeJoria, a philanthropist and environmentalist, Georges is working on taking the T-PEE® worldwide with the mission to save water and make a difference in the agricultural industry one tree at a time.
42
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
Warner University looks forward to seeing you at the symposium! Georges is an inspirational speaker who enjoys discussing protecting our land and water, and assisting farmers to save water, fuel, fertilizer, and herbicide. The event will start at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 in the Darby Lecture Hall. RSVPs are not required, but would be gratefully appreciated. For more information on the town hall meeting, the Agricultural Studies Program, or to RSVP, please email ag@warner.edu or call 863-638-7116. For more information about Warner University, please visit www.warner.edu.
N
VATIO R E S N O C R E WAT
M U I S O P SYM FEATURED ON
Johnny Georges
E® EE -PE -T-P e-T ee tre E tr H HE T T F F O O R R O O T AT EA RE C CR ®
Y B R A D Y A TUESD Lecture hall
, 2014 September t236:00 pm
Beginning a t
ITY WARNER UNIVERS
@warner.ed
l: ag RSVP by emai
u
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
43
Naturally Amazing Activities
By Sean Green
Photo courtesy of BlueberryTalk.com
Build a Wooden Bee Nest Block Bees are cool to watch (with respect) and great to have around the garden. This project will give wild bees a place to live in your yard or garden and at the same time, provide an opportunity to be involved with citizen science projects such as Native Buzz sponsored by University of Florida (UF). Once established, you can observe the habits of wild bees, understand which wild flowers they like best, and slowly transform your garden into a great habitat for healthy wild bees. The dimensions listed below are suggested by UF for those that want to participate in the citizen science project Native Buzz. Good science requires standardized data, if the dimensions of your project do not match the suggested dimensions, you can still participate in the citizen science project, just let them know the dimensions you are using.
Here are some suggestions:
Material:
• Scorch the wood block with fire to make it dark (DO NOT PAINT) • Use a chunk of firewood that still has bark on it • Use a block of wood that has been laying on the ground for a while
Drill Bits: small (1/8’’ or 3.18 mm), medium (3/16’’ or 4.76 mm) large (3/8’’ or 9.53 mm) Preservative Free Lumber 4x4 4x6 Tree Stump (similar dimensions or is larger) Fallen Log (similar dimensions or is larger) * Wood selection: Bees are most attracted to dark nest blocks.
Secure the block of wood between 1 and 6 ft off the ground. • Use a protected location with light shade. • Attach the block to a large visible landmark to help bees locate the nest after foraging (fence, tree,) Drill holes of various diameter at least 1” apart from each other Different species will choose different size holes. Drill holes at least 3” deep but not all the way through the wood. (deeper holes are thought to result in more female offspring)
Sign up to participate in Native Buzz at: http://entomology.ifas.ufl.edu/ellis/nativebuzz/Join.aspx Monitor your Bee nest and submit data: http://entomology.ifas.ufl.edu/ellis/nativebuzz/step3.aspx
813-767-4703 301 South Collins Street, Suite 101, Plant City, Florida 33563
• 44
P o rtrait P h o tograp h er Spe c ializ ing in H igh Sc hool Se niors
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
•
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
A Closer Look
Story and photo by Sean Green
Pollination Politics used insecticide in the world. Fortunately, there is a growing voice pushing towards a reevaluation of the use of these toxins, though I am not so sure a ban will solve the problem of CCD. Though some groups argue that neonicotinoid compounds are the culprit for killing off the bees, few if any can explain why a total collapse in the bee population has not happened in the past 66 years of its use. Instead, the primary argument is that neonicotinoids are untested and too new to be allowed on the market. Nicotine has a long history as both a medicine and insecticide and is featured in vast volumes of scientific and medical literature and is one of the least likely compounds to qualify as a new and untested poison. Formal studies of the insecticide properties of nicotine date back to 1948 with the work of Robert L. Metcalf’s “The mode of action of organic insecticides.” CCD itself is not a new phenomenon as some sources would infer. Descriptions of similar bee colony collapse date back to the late 1800s (Report of the Commissioner of Agriculture for the year 1868 (Pp. 272281)) with a description of what would be called May Disease. The terms for CCD have undergone several aliases in its history and just as many suspects to blame for a condition that has not been understood for nearly 150 years.
There has been a resurgence in the hype surrounding colony collapse disorder (CCD) and the newest whipping boy seems to be neonicotinoids, a class of insecticides that are reported to work by disrupting the neurologic system in insects that are ultimately responsible for the insects feeding and breeding characteristics. This topic inspires heated discussions in some of the larger online entomology discussion boards. The crossfire of journal citations, new research data, government publications, and corporate news releases make it difficult for many of us to make sense of what’s really happening. It is difficult to determine which stories are trustworthy when the battlefields are clouded with corporate agendas and political alliances. The best we can do to influence the future of agriculture is to take a closer look at the nature of the beast through the lens of reason. An article published June 24, 2014 by CBS news implicates neonicotinoids and Fipronil to ecosystem damage and the decline of honey bees. The effect of the toxin on insect populations is not hard to believe, neonicotinoids could be a potential threat to humans as well as insects. Neonicotinoids are chemically related to nicotine. The horrible commercials we see on TV about the dangers of smoking make it difficult to deny the toxicity of nicotine, yet, neonicotinoids are not only approved for use as an insecticide, but remain the most widely WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
It is interesting to note that the earliest records of what we now call CCD correspond to drastic changes in farming practices in the late 19th century. The number of farms in the U.S. grew from about 2 million in 1860 to over 6 million by 1910. Western movement bred mining, industrialization, and railroad systems. Farmers began to commercialize crops by distributing to local, regional, national, and eventually international markets. The days of farming for family sustenance and self-sufficiency began to give way to specialization. Farmers grew crops that leveraged land characteristics to provide a regional competitive advantage and traded with other regions resulting in greater efficiencies that met the needs of a growing population and agriculture market. Mechanization reduced the number of traditional diversified farms as larger monoculture farms became prevalent. Pest problems arise with monocultures because the abundance of the host plant supports epidemic pest population growth. Such growth requires increased pesticide use and soil amendments to replace nutrients that were inherent with conventional farming practices. This brings us back to our concern for the bees, they are hard workers and more productive with a healthy diet. Malnourished bees are prone to disease, have shorter lives, and cannot maintain a healthy, propagating hive. Research has demonstrated that when bees do not have a variety of pollen to eat, they can be deprived of various amino acids, lipids, vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Wild bees do not suffer CCD because of the variety of pollen from which they can feed on in the wild to get the nutrients they need. We may not fully understand the dynamics of CCD, but it’s obvious that commercial bees are not as healthy as they could be. Planting an assortment of wildflowers around the house or crop is a simple and inexpensive beginning, if nothing else it will provide the nutrients necessary to help them withstand other factors that could lead to CCD such as excessive pesticide use, parasites, and fungal or bacterial threats. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
45
Classifieds
Tel: 813.759.6909
info @inthe fie ld m a g a z ine .c o m
2002 EXISS 3H Slant w/Mid Tack and full living quarters, $31,500. Email brie1936@gmail.com for more information.
ANIMALS & NEEDS CECIL BREEDING FARM Full service thoroughbred farm from foaling to the track. Broodmare care. Investment opportunities. 863-899-9620
LAW N EQUIP MENT/ S UP P LIES BRAND NEW HUSTLER RAPTOR Zero Turn Mower. 52" cut, 23 hp. Kawasaki engine, 3 year warranty. $2,999 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
ANIMAL & BIRDCAGES Equipment serving the fur bearing animal & exotic bird industry! Cages built to order. Wire by roll or foot. (813) 752-2230. Call Don Ammerman. www.ammermans.com Swaps July 13, 2014 and November 30, 2014
RUBBER MULCH All colors, buy 10 bags, get 1 FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted 813-752-3378
REAL ES TATE FOR SALE – 45 ACRES VACANT LAND (Pasco County) 45 acres are comprised of gently rolling hills with big trees & solid ground. A great setting for residential development. To the east of the property is a 60 acre parcel (Lake Gilbert) that adds significant aesthetic value to the 45 acres. Zoning: AR (Agricultural-Rural) Call Heidi Cecil for more information 863-899-9620
CHICKEN MANURE FOR SALE Dry and available immediately! Call Tim Ford or Danny Thibodeau 863-439-3232 HUSTLER RAPTOR 42" cut, 21 hp Kawasaki engine. 3 year warranty. $2,799 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
B UILDING S UP P LIES REPLACE DOOR We have a lll your aluminum needs screen room, carports & awnings. Call Blake 813-752-3378 ALUMINUM We have all your aluminum needs! Screen Room, carports & awnings. Call Blake 813-752-3378
WINDOW SCREENS We make window screens of all sizes available in different frame colors. Call Ted 813-752-3378 Free Well Composted and Clean Horse
Manure in Dover
Easy truck access. Dark nutrient rich compost, no dies, additives or chemicals. Pick-up only. Call 813-610-4416.
T1-11 4 X 8 SHEET 5/ 8-INCH THICK B-grade $22.95. Call Ted 813-752-3378 MOBILE HOME TUBS Metal brand new in box 54” Mobile Home Tubs Call Ted 813-752-3378 $175.00
FARM EQUIP MENT MAHINDRA 8560 40 actual hrs., 2wd, diesel, 83hp, shuttle shift, warranty. $22,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
2009 JOHN DEERE 3038E
4X4 Hydro Stat Transmission with loader. 313 Hours. $15,000 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 MASSEY FERGUSON 210 2wd., diesel tractor. $3,750 Call Alvie. 813-759-8722
LOOKING TO LEASE 10 Plus acres prefer North Lakeland for cattle. Will maintain fences and mowing. Call Reggie 863-698-2967
CASE JX75 w/ loader, 4wd ALO loader, Euro style Q/A Shuttle transmission 2 spool rear remote valve Canopy Yr: 2006 1413hrs 75h, 62 PTO. $17,900 Call Robby 863-537-1345
S ERVICES CALLER ON HOLD A low cost service that enables you to communicate important information about your business to customers while they are on hold. No monthly payments or annual payments. Call today and ask for Al 813-763-2220
MASSEY FERGUSON 596 w/ loader Cab Bush Hog skid steer loader, 4wd 2 spool rear remote valve Yr: 2009. 2,309.5 hrs $22,900 Call Robby 863-537-1345
P RODUCE FRESH PRODUCE Forbes Road Produce. Open everyday from 7:30am - 8pm. Forbes Rd. & I-4 @ exit 17. Come out and see us!
F OR S ALE KITCHEN CABINETS & VANITIES Get quality all wood cabinets for less than the BIG BOX STORES! Call Today! Ask for Blake. 813-752-3378
MIS C. NEW HOLLAND Crop Saver Preservative for hay 2, 50 Gal. Drums. $200 each OBO. 813-620-3006
DOORS AND WINDOWS SPECIAL ORDER No upcharge. House & mobile home. Many standard sizes in stock. Call 813-752-3378 Ask for Blake
FOR INFORMATION on the first and only patented organic doctor approved Gentlemen’s Blend coffee contact Al at: 813-763-2220.
J OB S CONTRIBUTING WRITER Write about events in your community. Immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Paid per article. Responsibilities include covering community events and taking pictures. Email your resume to sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com
DOG KENNEL 10x10x6 ft Welded Dog Kennel, 11 1/2 GA Galvanized wire, ALL WELDED, 4 ft door. Heavy Duty Kennel - $295 Savich & Lee/Stalnaker 813-620-3006
KUBOTA B7100 4X4 Tractor, Good Condition. $2,950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
www.karenscoffee.rxsmartcoffee.com
Toll FREE: 1-877-817-7891 1 46
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
1
WWW. IN FFIELD M WWW. INTTHE HE IELD MAGAZINE.COM AGAZINE.COM
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
47
#1
Why is the selling brand of chain saw worldwide sold at Everglades Farm Equipment?
Because we know what you expect.
Serving you with 12 locations Since 1963 Serving you with 12 locations New Port Richey
Leesburg
727-842-8618
352-315-1016
6918 US Hwy. 19 New Port Richey, FL 34652
Plant City
2805 SR. 60 West Plant City, FL 33567
1800 US HWY. 441 Leesburg, FL 34748
813-737-1660
Okeechobee
820 US Hwy. 98, North Okeechobee, FL 34972
Clearwater
863-763-1921
5090 Ulmerton Road Clearwater, FL 33760
727-259-7748
Fort Pierce
6150 Orange Ave. Ft. Pierce, FL 34947
Palmetto
772-461-5568
906 US HWY 301 North Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-3281
Loxahatchee
13295 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470
Fort Myers
561-784-4000
9501 State Road 82 Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-332-5045
Belle Glade
Corporate Headquarters
Immokalee
775 E. Main St. Immokalee , FL 34142
239-657-4413
2017 N. W. 16TH Belle Glade, FL 33430
561-996-6531
Naples
1945 Pine Ridge Road Naples , FL 34109
239-260-8800
At Everglades Farm Equipment we carry the full line of the best hand held equipment on the planet. With the parts and service to keep you up and going, the right choice is STIHL and Everglades Farm Equipment.
48
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2014
Since 1963
Stop in one of our 12 full service locations. We offer fast and expert on-site service. Are you ready for a STIHL?
EvergladesFarmEquipment.com
WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM