In The Field Magazine - Polk December 2011

December 15, 2011 - January 15, 2012 ®

PURE BRED FLORIDA CRACKER Earli Sullivan

Covering What’s Growing

THE

Advantage

• Two Locations– One HUGE Inventory • Free Shuttle Service • Valet Vehicle Pick-up & Delivery with Appt.

• Complimentary “Pit Stop” Service – Fluid Levels & Tire Pressure Check with No Appt.

• Receive a Wash, Vacuum & Window Cleaning with Every Service Visit • 3-Day Money Back Guarantee on Every Vehicle Purchase

GM IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH FARM BUREAU® TO BRING YOU THIS VALUABLE OFFER¹.

Farm Bureau members can get a $500¹ private offer toward the purchase or lease of most new GM vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD lineup. Visit fbverify.com for more details. They get tough jobs done with a maximum payload of up to 6,635 lbs.² and a conventional towing capacity of up to 17,000 lbs.³ And through the GM Business Choice Program⁴, business owners receive even more when purchasing or leasing an eligible Chevrolet or GMC truck or van for business use. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com for details. ¹Offer valid toward the purchase of new 2011 and 2012 Buick, Chevrolet and GMC models, excluding Chevrolet Volt. ²Requires Regular Cab model and gas engine. Maximum payload capacity includes weight of driver, passengers, optional equipment and cargo. ³Requires available 6.6L Duramax® diesel engine. Maximum trailer ratings as-

sume a properly-equipped base vehicle plus drive. See dealer for details. ⁴To qualify, vehicles must be used in the day-to-day operation of the business and not solely for transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. This program may not be compatible with other offers or incentive programs. Consult your local Chevrolet or GMC

863-533-0777

1475 W. Main Street | Bartow, FL 33830 www.BartowChevrolet.com

dealer or visit gmbusinesschoice.com for program compatibility and other restrictions. Take delivery by 9/30/2012. Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau Federation® are registered service marks owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation, and are used herein (or by GM) under license. ©2011 General Motors LLC

813-782-1538

36822 State Road 54 | Zephyrhills, FL 33541 www.SparkmanChevrolet.com

From the Editor

Sarah Holt

December

®

VOL. 6 • ISSUE 4

®

Cover Story

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Pure Bred Florida Cracker Earli Sullivan Cover Photo by Karen Berry

PURE BRED FLORIDA CRACKER Earli Sullivan

December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

1

When you are thinking of gift ideas for friends and family, don’t forget the gift of fresh fruit grown right here in Florida. It’s a delicious nutritious gift that is sure to please everyone.

As you enjoy the blinking lights, Christmas trees, stockings and gifts, please remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas. It isn’t a commercial enterprise to boost the bottom line of stores. The real reason is, as you read in Luke 2:11, For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

When shopping for your Christmas meal, as for every meal, don’t forget to buy Fresh From Florida. And as you bow your head to give thanks, add the farmer and rancher. They often work from sunup to sundown, and many times don’t take a day off, allowing us to have the safest most abundant food supply in the world.

Those who choose to make a living in agriculture do it because they love it despite the hard work and sacrifices that go in to it. So whether it’s a steak on the grill, fresh strawberries or blueberries, or delicious bacon and eggs, our farmers and ranchers work hard so Florida can grow. We invite you to spend time reading the pages of In The Field magazine to get an inside look at the farmers and ranchers and their families, to learn more about them and all that they do to grow our food, and raise healthy livestock, all while preserving the land for future generations.

7 8 10 16 18 24 26 38 40 52

Be blessed,

Publisher/Owner Karen Berry

Sales Manager Danny Crampton

Editor-In-Chief Al Berry

Sales Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton Kay Mullis

Sarah

The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you.

Advertisers Index

December 2011

August 15-September 15, 2011

15, 2011

July 15 - August 15, 2011

June 15 - July 15, 2011

®

®

Grub Station

®

Lakeland Farmers Curb Market RESEARCHER EXTRAORDINAIRE

Fishing Hot Spots

DustinTillet

Bridget Carlisle

Captain Woody Gore

Master Gardener Christmas Codiaeum

Rocking Chair Chatter Al Berry

Fighting Crime

PCSO Hosts Agro-Terrorism Exercise

CORN MAZES & OLIV E TREES Green Leaf Sod Farm s

Betty & Bill Morrison

East Coast Brokers and Packers

Covering What’s Growing

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MORRISON RANCH

FOOD SAFETY

FREAKIN’ SWEET

Covering What’s Growing

September 2011

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

August 2011

Covering What’s Growing

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June 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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Feb. 15 - Mar. 15, 2011

2011 May 15 - June 15,

Keitha Hall

®

Ag Classes Ain’t Easy

1

Covering What’s Growing

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Mar. 15 - Apr. 15,

June 2011

2011

®

Bug: A Closer Look

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

1

April 15 - May 15, 2011 ®

®

MEET CA CITRUS PTAIN

Christmas Tree Insects

Liz Austin, Sem ona Lin Van Amy Carpen essa Hodak, ter and Capg,tain Citrus.

Fruit, Veggie & Herb Black Sapote

Office Manager Bob Hughens

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

September 15 - October

®

Editor Patsy Berry

In The Field® Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Polk County businesses, restaurants and other local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes members of Polk County Farm Bureau, Florida Citrus Mutual and Polk County Cattlemen’s Association. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 335630042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909.

and the stories of your friends, family and neighbors...

Did You Know?

Senior Managing Editor/Associate Publisher Sarah Holt

Numbers 6:25

We Tell Your Stories

Covering What’s Growing www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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30

December 15, 2011 - January 15, 2012

Creative Director Amey Celoria

Photography Karen Berry Al Berry Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Mark Cook Ginny Mink Cheryl Lewis

Designers Mona Jackson Juan Carlos Alvarez Contributing Writer Woody Gore

Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects.

In The Field® Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by their advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In The Field® magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc. Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

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T PRESIDEN LAND JIM STRICK s Association Florida Cattlem

FX BAR RANCH

en’

at’s Covering Whe.com

PRESIDENT CHARLES CLARK

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association

Not Just Another Beef Cattle Operation

Growing

Covering What’

Covering What’s Growing

AGAZINE

May 2011

INTHEFIELD M

agazin

www.InTheFieldM

www.InTheFieldMagazine.c 1 om

February 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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s Growing

Covering What’s Growing www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

February 2011

INTHEFIELD

MAGAZINE

April 2011

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These past issues and more are available online at

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com 813/759-6909

/berry.publications

/ITFmagazine

1

POLK COUNTY

CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION

As the year draws to a close, it is time to relax for a while and enjoy the Holidays with family and friends. It was a busy and productive year as our membership grew, and activities continued that support our industry. Planning for events that occur shortly after the New Year begins is already underway.

Coming up on January 14, at 5:30 PM is the Taste of Ag, THE MAJOR FUND RAISER, for the Polk County Youth Fair. It is the Fourth Annual occurrence of the resurrected event. In an effort to increase interest a whip popping demonstration is planned. The demonstration will be presented by some of the youth who participate in the Annual Whip Popping Contest at the Polk County Youth Fair. What better way to showcase the time and effort put forth by our youth. This is just one of the many activities at the fair that allows our youth to demonstrate their abilities and knowledge gained through participation in 4 H and FFA. Support for this event can be demonstrated in several ways. By volunteering your time. The Polk County Farm Bureau, Polk County Cattlewomen and The Polk County Cattlemen will supply the ingredients and prepare the meal. Individual ticket prices for this year have been reduced to allow more families to participate.

Company participation will again be an important element by offering sponsorship of a whole table. What better way to reward those hard working employees and support our youth at the same time. For more information contact Higgenbotham Auctioneers International at 644-6681. Marty Higgenbotham has supported the Youth Fair for years and has provided the venue for this important event since its rebirth

Charles Clark

• Americans today consume 17.3 billion quarts of popped popcorn each year. The average American eats about 68 quarts!

• Popcorn pops because water is stored in a small circle of soft starch in each kernel. As the kernel is heated, the water heats, the droplet of moister turns to steam and the steam builds up pressure until the kernel finally explodes to many times its original volume.

• Cows have a total of 32 teeth, but no front teeth on the top where they instead have a tough pad of skin. They have upper teeth in the back of their mouths only.

• One cowhide can produce enough leather to make 20 footballs, 18 soccer balls, 18 volleyballs or 12 basketballs.

• Sesame Street’s Big Bird costume is made of turkey feathers.

• There are 32.6 million head of beef cows in the U.S. • Soybeans are an important ingredient for the production of crayons. In fact, one acre of soybeans can produce 82,368 crayons.

• An acre of trees can remove about 13 tons of dust and gases every year from the surrounding environment.

• The peach is a member of the rose family and will have a sweet fragrance when ripe.

• We are eating 900% more broccoli than we did 20 years ago.

• Each American consumers, on average, 53 pounds of bread per year.

PO Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831-9005 OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS President – Charles Clark (863) 412-8349 cclark@expoco.com Vice President – Dave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 cattlemanslivestock@earthlink.net Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch (863) 425-1121 jbunch@agriumretail.com Al Bellotto (863) 581-5515 Ray Clark, (863) 683-8196 rclark@tampabay.rr.com L.B. Flanders, DVM (863) 644-5974 Dewey Fussell (863) 984-3782 Mike Fussell (863) 698-8314 fussell.flafarm@verizon.net David McCullers )863) 528-1195 Moby Persing (863) 528-4379 Ned Waters (863) 698-1597 watersn@doacs.state.fl.us J. B. Wynn (863) 581-3255 jbwynn29@gmail.com Alternate - Howard Yates, 2501 Arbuckle Lane, Frostproof, FL 33843-9647 Standing Committee Chairs: Membership- J.B. Wynn Events- Kevin Fussell (863) 412-5876 Rodeo- Fred Waters (863) 559-7808 watersf@doacs.state.fl.us

Charles Clark Polk County Cattlemen’s Association President

Cattlewomen - President Sherry Kitchen (863) 221-0230 skitchen@bcieng.com Extension – Bridget Carlisle (863) 519-8677 bccarlis@ufl.edu Sheriff’s Dept. – Sgt. Howard Martin

6

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December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 7

Established 1947

FREE GIFT

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with Purchase of any CHAMILIA® Product of $100 00

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Index of Advertisers

• Fine Jewelry • Diamond Setting & Restyling • Custom Design/Casting • Expert Watch & Jewelry Repair crescent.jewelers@yahoo.com on Premises Hours: Tues.-Sat. 10a.m. - 5:30p.m.

• Watch Batteries Installed 1514 S. Alexander St. • S# 108, Plant City “While You Wait”

Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers ..................35 Arrington Body Shop ................................53 Art’s Golf Cars .........................................25 B&L Pool Resurfacing ...............................51 Bartow Chevrolet-Sparkman Automotive .....3 Blinds ASAP .............................................51 C&J Equipment Sales ...............................21 Carlton & Carlton, PA ..............................41 Cattleman’s Feed & Ranch Supply .............45 Cecil Breeding Farm ..................................56 Cowboys Steakhouse .................................48 Crescent Jewelers ........................................8 Crossroads Ace Hardware .........................50 Discount Metal Mart ................................47 Eli’s Western Wear ....................................17 Ellison RBM .............................................53 Fancy Farms .............................................11 Farm Credit ..............................................21

Florida Farm & Ranch Supply ...................53 Florida Mineral, Salt & Ag Products .........19 Florida Strawberry Festival ........................10 Fred’s Southern Kitchen ...............................9 Groover Exterminating .............................51 Grove Equipment Service ..........................35 Helena Chemical ......................................39 High Yield Industries ................................49 Hinton Farms Produce ..............................27 International Market World ......................27 KeyPlex Nutritionals ...................................2 L.I.T. Security Cages .................................46 Lake Miriam Pawn ....................................15 Lay’s Western Wear & Feed .......................44 Lewis Insulation Technologies ...................46 Lightsey Cattle Co. ...................................53 Mosaic .....................................................37 Plant City Church of God .........................46

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association ..........7 Polk Equine ..............................................53 Precision Pump Service ..............................53 Precision Lock & Safe ...............................49 Red Rose Inn & Suites .......................... 28-29 Rhino Linings ...........................................44 Rhizogen ..................................................43 Roadrunner Vet .........................................43 Savich & Lee Wholesale ............................41 Southeastern Septic ...................................37 Southside Farm & Pet Supply ....................23 Southwestern Produce Company ...............13 Spurlow’s Outdoor Outfitters ....................53 Stephanie Humphrey Photography ............49 Stingray Chevrolet ....................................55 The Bug Man ............................................53 Werts Welding & Tank Service ..................47 Wishnatzki Farms .....................................25

MAR. 1 - MAR. 11, 2012 PLANT CITY, FLORIDA Youth Fair..................................................49

JOSH TURNER

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS

TOBYMAC

THE GATLIN BROTHERS

CRYSTAL GAYLE

DEMI LOVATO

LEE GREENWOOD

LOUISE MANDRELL

THE JANEDEAR GIRLS

You, Too, Can Be A Winner HEY READERS, hidden somewhere in the magazine is a No Farmers, No Food logo. Hunt for the logo and once you find the hidden logo you will be eligible for a drawing to win a FREE InTheField® T-Shirt. Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the page on which you found the logo and where on that page you located the logo to: InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, FL 33563-0042 All Entries must be received by January 3, 2011.

Winner will be notified by phone.

You Too Can Be A Winner - Enter Now! 8

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

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December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 9

Lakeland Farmers Curb Market

by Cheryl Kuck

This month, the Grub Station takes a look at one of the diverse ways that the produce and byproducts end up in your favorite restaurant or home or from earth, water, air, sun and human imagination to the market place.

After hearing so many great comments about the weekly Lakeland Farmers Curb Market located in the city’s historic area, I called the chamber of commerce and they cheerfully launched into a story about how the thriving market came into being about seven years ago.

While working with the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA), Jim Luna knew an active and vital downtown, surrounded by central Florida’s rich farm belt, was one that brought fresh produce to the city in an interesting and eclectic manner.

“I talked to the LDDA about the benefits to the city and started by making a five-year commitment to the creation of a successful market venue,” said Luna.

He brought his idea to fruition in 2004 when The Farmers Curb Market was established off Kentucky Avenue and Bay Street. Two years later, it moved to N. Kentucky and Pine St. where it has continued to flourish with approximately 50 vendors who contract their space by the week, month or on a yearly basis.

Most vendors have established clientele through several years of commitment and come from as far away as Orlando. Others come from local areas such as Winter Haven, Polk City, Lake Wales, Zephyrhills, Wachula, Plant City, Bartow, greater Lakeland, Auburndale, and Dover. Some, like produce vendor Erendera Renteria, have been successfully selling at the market since the beginning.

Jim the Bread Man has been bringing in freshly baked breads, rolls and cookies to his corner location since the market move to N. Kentucky five years ago.

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Another longtime vendor, Deborah Kato, owner of Tropical Gardens in Lakeland, has been a grower for 10 years and has been selling her gorgeous orchids at the market for the past four years.

Debbie Butts of Eco Farms has been a market vendor for four years and, in addition to the regular Saturday crowd, she has customers who place advance orders for her organic produce, then come, visit, and pickup their orders.

The atmosphere is somewhat like a large, happy family and many have worked out beneficial relationships like Butts, who works with an artist who recycles metal, plastics and other items used on the farm and another who makes soaps and uses Luffa fiber sponge gourds from Eco. Luffa is a green renewable resource with many uses and many names, (known as loofah, smooth loofah, loofah sponge, loofa, luffa, loufa, loufah, sponge gourd, Chinese okra, elephant okra, dishrag gourd, towel gourd, etc.) and is also a green alternative to rock wool as a root medium in hydroponic plant growing systems.

Kimberly’s Krap market shop solely sells recycled and found objects recreated into art and is a part of Jim Luna’s vision to have a market dedicated exclusively to the sale of things homegrown, fresh or handmade.

Kimberly also supervises the market’s free creation station for children.

“I think it’s important for children to have hands-on art experiences whenever they can, especially since art is no longer a part of curriculum in many schools,” said Lakeland mom Ashley Bracken, whose children Ella and Tucker were enjoying the day’s paint and stamping project.

From handmade to homegrown, the “rain or shine” Curb Market has produced its own tapestry of people almost as remarkable as the products they sell. From local honey products, bee pollen, hydroponically grown lettuce, infused olive oil and vinegars, herbs, herbal (no trans-fat) turkey brine,

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family recipe tomato sauces and homemade fudge.

The newest market vendor is Lisa Martin LaFave, who started making fudge with no artificial flavors or additives from a family recipe and took a box to her aunt, who in-turn gave samples to her friends in a retirement home. Now LaFave takes orders from the elderly and helps those unable to get out and shop send fudge gifts to friends and relatives. Be sure to try the great fudge tipped and sprinkled pretzel sticks… great for munching while shopping.

The Grub Station also adds a sweet December review as the Beignets Café Au Lait brings the taste and chicory coffee aromas of the New Orleans French Quarter to Lakeland. Foodies believe you haven’t experienced New Orleans without savoring a beignet.

Now you don’t need to go the trouble of travelling 654 miles, 10 hours and 45 minutes for the melt-in-your-mouth sweet pastry treat, it’s available at the Curb Market.

Jared Masse and Robin Wilson have created a charming openair French market café where they make magic, specifically “fried pillows of joy” from pastry that is deep fried and dusted with powdered sugar, offered in flavors such as lemonade and gingerbread.

Three hot in a bag for only $4.00 to $6.00.

Masse was a regular with the SYFI Network television cooking show, “Marcel’s Quantum Cooking” until its last episode and shows his culinary finesse as one who doesn’t need a fancy kitchen to produce wonderful flavors.

December is the month where we think of tables groaning with the bountiful feasts of the season. Please remember the farmers, as well as the importance of our agricultural production. How vital they are for our quality of life, as well as the availability of the safe, abundant domestic food supply we have been so blessed with in this country.

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Lakeland Farmers Curb Market

Eclectic Outdoor Market Features Exclusively Homegrown, Fresh or Handmade Items Established 2005 Location: Corner of E. Pine Street and N. Kentucky Avenue, in the plaza of the Curtis Peterson Building Phone: (863) 221-4633 Hours: Rain or Shine, every Saturday between 8:00AM - 2:00PM and every Wednesday from 11:00AM - 2:00PM through June.

Closed exceptions: Months of July and Aug., Sat. before Christmas, Christmas Eve and New Years Eve Web site: www.downtownlakelandfl. com/farmers-curb-market December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 11

Perfectly Fresh. Perfectly Priced.

VEGETABLE SALE

Recipes Courtesy of The Florida Department of Agriculture

Fri. & Sat. December 16th & 17th • 8 am - 5 pm Stock up now! Next sale April 20th & 21st, 2012 Order Online at southwesternproduce.com • Call in Your Order or Just Drop by and See Us During the Sale!

Strawberry Clouds Ingredients 2 cups fresh strawberries, rinsed, dried, hulled and sliced 1 lemon zested and juiced 1 cup heavy cream 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt powdered or superfine sugar to taste 1/2 cup light brown sugar Preparation In a chilled bowl, whip the cream and a tablespoon of the powdered sugar until soft peaks start to form.

Slowly fold in the yogurt, adding only small amounts of the lemon juice and zest at a time. Taste as you go, adding more lemon or sugar if needed. In the bottom of six small bowls or one large bowl, add the sliced strawberries in an even layer on the bottom. Cover the strawberries with the whipped cream mixture, being careful not to compress the whipped mixture. Sprinkle the top with the light brown sugar and carefully smooth the sugar over with the back of a small spoon until the cream mixture is completely covered. Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours until sugar forms a crust. Serve cold with whole strawberries on the side.

Pecans are here!

Southwestern Produce Company 1510 Sydney Rd. • Plant City, FL

(813) 754-1500 or (813) 757-0096 www.southwesternproduce.com

Yield 4 servings

Fresh from the Farm to your Freezer!

***All items are 8 pounds unless otherwise noted.***

Florida Strawberry Tiramisu Pecan Halves 1 lb Bag ................................. $10 2 ½ lb Bag ............................. $25 5 lb Bag ................................. $49 10 lb Bag ............................... $97

Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds strawberries 1 1/4 cups strawberry preserves 1/3 cup plus 4 tablespoons orange liquer 1/3 cup orange juice 1 pound Italian mascarpone cheese, room temperature 1 1/3 cups chilled heavy whipping cream 1/3 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 52 crisp ladyfingers

Pecan Pieces 1 lb Bag ................................. $10 2 ½ lb Bag ............................. $25 5 lb Bag ................................. $49 10 lb Bag ............................... $97

Preparation Whisk preserves, 1/3 cup orange liquor, and orange juice in 2-cup measuring cup. Place mascarpone cheese and 2 tablespoons orange liquor in large bowl; fold just to blend. Using a whisk, beat cream, sugar, vanilla, and remaining 2 tablespoons orange liquor in another large bowl to soft peaks. Stir 1/4 of whipped cream mixture into mascarpone mixture to lighten. Fold in remaining whipped cream a small amount at a time. Slice half of strawberries. Spread 1/2 cup preserve mixture over bottom of 3-quart serving dish or a 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish. Arrange enough ladyfingers over strawberry mixture to cover bottom of dish. Spoon 3/4 cup preserve mixture over ladyfingers, then spread 2 1/2 cups mascarpone mixture on top. Arrange 2 cups sliced strawberries over mascarpone mixture. Repeat layering with remaining lady fingers, preserve mixture, and mascarpone mixture. Cover with plastic and chill at least 8 hours or overnight. Slice remaining strawberries. Arrange over tiramisu and serve.

Yield 4 servings

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December 2011

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Our new web site is now live!

Order online and we’ll have it ready for you to pick up.

Give us a call or visit www.southwesternproduce.com to be placed on our mailing list for monthly notification.

WALK-INS WELCOME www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Beans & Peas Fordhooks .............................. $22 Baby Butter Bean ................... $13 Green Beans .......................... $13 Pole Beans ............................. $13 Speckled Butter Beans ............ $13 Blackeye Peas ........................ $13 Butter Peas ............................. $13 Conk Peas .............................. $22 Crowder Peas......................... $13 Green Peas ............................ $13 Pinkeye Peas......................... $13 Sugar Snap Peas .................... $15 Zipper Peas ............................ $13 Corn & Greens White Corn ............................. $13 Yellow Corn ........................... $13 Cream White Corn 4# ............. $ 6 Cream Yellow Corn 4# ........... $ 6 Collard Greens....................... $12 Mustard Greens ..................... $12 Turnip Greens ........................ $12 Spinach .................................. $12 December 2011

Other Vegetables Cut Okra ................................ $12 Breaded Okra ........................ $12 Whole Okra............................ $12 Sliced Yellow Squash ............. $12 Sliced Zucchini ....................... $12 Brussel Sprouts ...................... $12 Broccoli .................................. $13 Baby Carrots .......................... $12 Cauliflower ............................ $13 Mixed Vegetables .................. $13 Soup Blend............................. $13 Fruit & Peanuts Blueberries 5# ....................... $15 Blackberries 5#...................... $15 Raspberries 5# ...................... $15 Cranberries 5# ...................... $15 Mango Chunks 5# ................. $15 Peaches .................................. $15 Green Jumbo Peanuts............ $15

Merry Christmas!

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 13

Y G U OLD B E W PAYING TOP $$$

PAYING TOP $$$

SILVER, DIAMONDS & PLATINUM

863-646-5797 Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-6:00pm | Sat 9:00am-3:00pm

by Jim Frankowiak

The Florida peach industry today is very much like blueberries were 10 to 15 years ago, a crop growing quickly in popularity with loads of long term potential. That’s the latest word from researchers and growers.

Just a few years ago, there were less than 100 acres of peach orchards in Florida, actually about 70 acres to be specific. Today, there are nearly 1,000 acres of orchards and that number continues to grow. The reasons for this growth of Florida peaches are multi-fold. “Shifts in the citrus industry, and the severity of certain diseases has pushed growers to consider alternative crops or farm diversification to compensate for those losses,” said Dr. Mercy Olmstead, Stone Fruit Extension Specialist at the University of Florida – IFAS at Gainesville. “In addition, the marketing advantage of growing low-chill peaches in Florida allows growers to get a significant increase in price over other southeastern states. For example, growers here in Florida are getting approximately $2 per pound, while other states in the Southeast are getting less than $1 per pound.”

Another important reason for renewed interest in Florida peaches, “was the introduction of several varieties of peaches by UF researchers that are not susceptible to nematodes,” said Pampered Peach Orchard owner Margie E. Adams. “Additionally, UF introduced varieties keyed to the nine different zones we have here in Florida for peaches.” For Adams, that all added up to some solid reasons to carefully explore the potential conversion of her 40-acres near Auburndale in Polk County to a peach grove.

The varieties introduced by UF for Florida are “non-melters”

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as compared to the “melters” most people would call the peaches grown in Georgia. These newer varieties are less susceptible to bruising and offer greater time for the trip from the orchard to the packing house and retail outlet.

“It seemed to me my 40-acres could be used for something other than hay. I felt it’s going to take at least 10 years for real estate to come back and I didn’t want to wait that long,” said Adams. “All that I learned about peaches suggested to me there was an opportunity for a faster return on my investment in the conversion.”

“I gathered as much information as I could, talked to many people and then assembled a team to take on the conversion of my 40-acres from hay to peaches,” said Adams. Clint Updike, an Alturas-based consultant and caretaker with Sunny Florida Peach Company, has worked closely with Adams as she transitioned from hay to peaches. “Working together, we identified and hired the best people to dig our 12-inch well, install our pump, irrigation and fertigation systems,” she said, noting she can handle all system needs by herself.

The Pampered Peach Orchard consists of 4,064 peach trees, equal numbers of UFOne and UFSun trees. The initial planting took place earlier this year and the first crop will be produced in 2012. “Though we will have returns in 2012, our good money will come in 2013 and the years after,” said Updike, who noted the average first four year yield for peach trees like the ones at Adams’ orchard is approximately 162,000 pounds.

Though an example of the new breed of peach growers in

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Florida, Adams is hardly typical. Originally from Americus, Georgia, she spent the initial 15 years of her working life as a chef at restaurants at such places as the World Trade Center in New York City, the Atlanta Hilton and others. She then married Charles W. “Wally” Adams, owner of Adams Groves and traded her chef’s hat for attire suitable for world class fishing tournaments, specifically in pursuit of billfish. That led to an educational initiative with many underdeveloped countries to help them recognize the socio-economic benefits of sport fishing versus killing fish. Though still involved in fishing, Adams is an adventurer “always looking for that next adventure” and that led to her most recent pursuit, peaches.

She hasn’t closed the door on cooking, just as she hasn’t given up on bill fishing. “I went back to the International Culinary Institute in New York a few years ago to update my skills,” she said. It could be that some of those skills will be put to work with products of the Pampered Peach Orchard. She has also been on fishing trips this year.

Adams feels that in addition to getting a jump on the traditional peach market with the first available crops, Florida peaches offer some distinct advantages over foreign peaches, primarily those from Chile. “Our Florida peaches go from the orchard to the supermarket in 24 hours,” she noted. “Imports are picked green, gassed and then come to market in several weeks.” Updike also noted that peaches grown off shore may “also be subjected to chemicals banned in this country for use years ago.”

There’s more to the peach story for Adams. “Every industry has its special needs and requirements,” she said. “Florida peaches have reached the point where we need to have our own

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Only time will tell if the first president of the Florida Peach Growers Association is a classically-trained chef, world class bill fisherman and peach grower.

December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 15

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by Captain Woody Gore Although there is no hard documented proof that the banana is bad luck, it is a very viable superstition that many Captains live by. There are those that believe in all sorts of different superstitions, and who is to say they are not founded? However, the banana is one of the most persistent superstitions, especially among the fishing community.

This delicious yellow-skinned fruit has been blamed for many boating accidents, break downs, illness, and poor fish catches.

Fishermen have harbored the belief that having bananas aboard is extremely unlucky when trying to catch fish.

For many the banana curse extends well beyond the fruit itself. Strong superstitious captains believe that anything representing a banana either itself, its smell and even its name should be banned from the boat. Some even go so far as to ban anything yellow from the boat, which seems somewhat ridiculous to me.

So, where did it come from? The bad luck theory of bananas is derived from the misfortune of stevedores unloading banana boats from Central America.

The cargo most often contained biting spiders that not only were painful, but occasionally deadly.

Stevedores considered it bad luck to be assigned to unloading a banana boat. This is the truth behind the myth.

Another possible rational for the banana bewilderment might simply be the fish stories exchanged between fishermen. Over the years, tale after tale of bad luck, when an angler had bananas on board, have been handed down and readily accepted with the bananas becoming the scapegoat.

Whatever the root cause actually might be, as they say, perception is reality and it has led to the infamous banana ban.

Indeed, some anglers won’t allow Banana Boat Sun Screen or partake of a tasty banana daiquiri or a banana split for fear it will have an impact on the next day’s fishing. Thus, the banana discrimination continues.

The effect that this or other superstitions have on anglers is

16 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

real. As almost everyone knows “karma” is very important. The mere thought of bad luck can cause an imbalance in the captain, crew and anglers. This usually results in a poor catch.

So are bananas really bad luck? Usually, but only for those who believe they are bad luck. However, one superstitious member on a fishing boat or vessel can affect an entire boat’s karma. The banana impact and myth has affected millions of fishermen and highlights the important lesson in theory of fishing.

Superstition clutters the mind, creating imbalance. Clear your mental slate before fishing. The counter to a bad luck superstitious thought is a good luck thought, which adds to proper mental balance. Therefore, maintaining this proper balance while fishing requires an uncluttered mind.

Too many thoughts make being one with the fish more difficult. Remember the primitive brain is the key to harmony.

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areas that hold this prize species it’s hard to take the time to find new ones. This coming year I intend to concentrate on learning new unlikely areas for snook. For some reason the grass always

Tampa Bay Fishing Report

With all the residential canals and inshore reefs, Bay anglers are truly blessed when it comes to fishing in December and it seems you never have to run far to find what you are looking for. Fish seem to acclimate themselves to the lower tides and feed all day with little or no concern of weather. Fishing around the grass flats also begins heating up with plenty of respectable sight fishing. Live baits are occasionally unnecessary, especially with all the artificial lures available in today’s arsenal of fishing tackle, although it can be helpful when you’re looking for larger fish.

Redfish: This month redfish are found mainly on the flats, as it is time for them to school. There are lots of big fish in skinny water, but locating them does require a bit of investigation. On both sides of the Bay start by looking for healthy, shallow, grass flats with lots of bait and mullet. Find a big school of mullet and they are usually frequented by schooling redfish. One of the keys to finding fish is looking for shallow flats with narrow cuts, potholes and sandy bars. This type of flat can be dissected and studied during low tides. Find the access flow points that funnel water onto and off of the flat and you will know where the fish will come through on the rise and fall. The drop offs and deeper holes are where the fish are holding on the low tides. The trick is learning exactly where to be and at what time. You can’t just pull up to the bar and start throwing chum. Live and dead baits are great, but you can catch plenty of fish on jigs and jerk baits, for the simple reason of having the ability to cover more water. My color preferences for Gulp are new penny, camo, and white Snook: If snook is your species of choice, the Bay and its tributaries offer plenty of excellent fishing. There are so many

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seems greener on the other side of the street and same holds true when it comes to fishing. So many times we’ve seen tournament anglers make 50 plus mile runs to catch the same fish they are running past. It doesn’t seem to make any sense to me. Some of the snook fishing is located right in your own backyard, so to speak, so why not take time to learn what you can about those areas and the how’s, when’s and where to fish.

Trout: Sea Trout fishing has been off the wall this year, especially around deeper rocky bottoms and lush grass flats with sandy potholes. Windy overcast days and incoming water are a favorite time for avid trout anglers. Live greenbacks, shrimp or

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artificial lures will do the trick. Early morning grass flats with a MirrOlure’s Top Dog Jr. will produce some awesome sized fish including the occasional snook.

Inshore Gag Grouper: The inshore grouper bite will pick up, especially as the water temperatures cool down. Fishing should be good when we can avoid the northerly cold fronts and high winds.

Lots of near shore and inshore bay keepers should show up in 15 to 25 feet of water. These guys are awesome fun especially on light tackle and trolling.

Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, Bonito, Bluefish: Cold fronts should bring the traditionally high winds. As the water temps fall with each passing front the near beach the kingfish bite should improve. Tons of bait should bring the kings, Spanish mackerel, bluefish and bonito within a mile or so of the beach or inside the Bay.

“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” 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.

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Visit his website at: WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE. COM, send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com or give him a call at 813-477-3814.

December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 17

Christmas Codiaeum

Debra Howell:

The Master Gardener

Merry

Christmas to all! The obvious plants to write about in December would be Poinsettias, hollies, spruces and firs, perhaps a Christmas Cactus. So I chose Codiaeum variegatum. You probably know it better as the croton.

These lovelies are appropriately colorful for Christmas, and make a nice gift, with a warning to the giftee about its sensitivity to cold weather.

Surprisingly, the vibrant leaves of these plants were the inspiration for the colors in the Brazilian flag. They are equatorial in origin, and hail from the Moluccan Islands off the coast of southeast Asia. They were discovered by a Dutch naturalist named G.E. Rumphius in 1960. However, new varieties and crosses are attributed to French and Belgian nurserymen.

Codiaeum is Greek for “head,” and referred to the use of the leaves for head wreaths. Although reference states that Codiaeums last for at least 15 years, we’ve had ours for more years than I’m willing to admit.

My favorite codiaeum is called Piecrust, due to leaves which look like the rick-rack edge of a piecrust. We had a large specimen plant until the week-long freeze took its toll. And yes, it was covered with a car protector. I am so used to seasonal plant coverings that one half of my utility room is dedicated to these sheets and blankets. Once, at a flea-market, my mother was preparing to purchase some plants when a man walked by and muttered, “bring them in, take them out, bring them in, take them out.”

We have many types including Stoplight, which, according to Dr. B. Frank Brown is “the most colorful croton in existence.”

18 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

Their yellow, red and green leaves garner attention from fellow gardeners who can see them from the street and crave a cutting.

Older varieties like Mortil and Stewartii are more cold hardy and may be used north of central Florida. Color variations depend on temperature and light, with darker colored leaves expressed during winter months.

Leaf classifications are broad leaf, oak leaf, semi-oak leaf, spiral leaf, narrow leaf, very narrow leaf, small leaf, interrupted leaf, and recurved leaf types. My red and black Dayspring is trying to defy its type by becoming semi-oak leaf.

With the use of Dr. Brown’s book, I’ve been able to identify the following codiaeums: Eleanor Roosevent, Ethel Craig, Mortii, Dayspring, Tortilis, Gloriosa, General Paget, Icetone, Green and Gold, Majesticum, Reedii, Maculatum Katoni, Johanna Coppinger, Aureo maculatum, and Stoplight. I also have one called “Paintbrush,” which has been in a container for a long time.

I’ll admit that trying to identify these plants according to leaf type and color has been a real challenge with their kaleidoscope leaves resembling a fine mosaic tile. But once I began to look around, I identified many beautiful cultivars, and was stunned by the amount of work to be done in my yard.

The hardiness zones for this plant are 10a to 11, if ground planted. Remember, we are in Zone 9a, so you’ll still need to

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

   

     

     

  

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December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 19



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protect them on a cold winter’s night.

Codiaeums may be cultivated from seed, cuttings or air-layering. At one time, our codiaeums were always covered with fat wads of aluminum foil over Spanish moss, placed on branches scarified by my mother.

Usually pest-free, you may infrequently see spider mites, scale or mealybugs, for which the use of soapy water is normally sufficient.

They will benefit from a slow-release fertilizer, which contains minor elements that you will apply in March, June and October.

Any fertilizers you apply in winter should be by half-doses.

Water requirements are once or twice per week once the plants are established. They are sun loving, but will benefit from a little shade, as well.

Now that you’re armed with all this data about these plants, which are brightly-colored and glossy for the Christmas season, I have one more piece of information: Recipe for removing croton stains: Mix three tablespoons each of borax, bleach and water, dipping in this solution until either the stain or the fabric disappear.

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Bio: Debra Howell • Master Gardener since 2005 • 1998 graduate - University of South • Master Gardener of the year (Polk Florida - Tampa campus Co.) 2010 • Amateur archaeologist • “Commitment to the Environment” • Chairman, Ft. Meade PRIDE Curb Polk Volunteer winner 2012 Appeal Committee 20 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

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December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 21

Neslund Joins Mosaic As Polk County Public Affairs Manager

by Jim Frankowiak

Polk County native Callie Neslund has joined Mosaic Fertilizer LLC as Public Affairs Manager, overseeing the company’s outreach and serving as a liaison for Mosaic facilities in the county.

“Throughout her career, Callie has demonstrated devotion to Polk County through her public service and civic involvement,” said Diana Youmans, Manager – Community Relations for Mosaic. “These are core values for our company and Callie’s full time presence in the county will help us continue our support for the people and organizations that make the county such a strong community and great place to live.”

“Polk County has a rich history of collaboration among government, non-profit organizations and businesses building stronger and more resilient communities,” said Neslund. “As a lifelong resident, I’ve witnessed Mosaic’s leadership in developing and growing these important partnerships. I am eager to do my part to help build on this strong foundation.”

An alumna of Lakeland’s George Jenkins High School, Neslund bring a strong background in communications, public service and government relations to her position. She was most recently a Legislative Assistant to State Representative Seth McKeel (District 63), a member of the Florida House of Representatives. Neslund was responsible for the development, coordination and management of daily media and constituent communications, tracking legislation and other issue areas for Rep. McKeel.

While a high school student, Neslund was involved in Student Government, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and National Honor Society. Also a cheerleader, she was named Miss GJHS in 2001. Neslund received her undergraduate degree summa cum laude from Palm Beach Atlantic University. “I spent a semester interning at Focus on the Family in Colorado Springs where

22 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

I came to understand the value of engaging in public policy. I returned from the internship and helped start a College Republications chapter at my university.” Neslund also holds a Master of Business Administration degree cum laude from the University of Florida.

Married to Brian, a third generation Polk County resident, Neslund and her husband “spend a great deal of time fishing in Anna Maria with our golden retriever, Sadie.

We love the outdoors, so in July we head up to Homosassa for scallop season and in August down to the Keys for lobster season.”

“I have been very involved in the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and am currently Assistant Chair of the State Public Affairs Committee. I also serve on the board of Volunteers in Service to the Elderly (VISTE) and A Woman’s Choice, a pregnancy crisis center in Lakeland.

“I credit my interest and exposure to Florida agriculture to my time spent working for Representative McKeel who currently chairs the House State Affairs Committee under which agriculture and natural resources fall. I was able to meet a lot of leaders in the agricultural community and hear firsthand about the challenges they face every day.”

“My husband’s late grandfather, Earl Jones, retired from a career as a mechanical engineer with IMC and CF Industries. He instilled in his family a deep appreciation for the role that phosphate plays in the production of our food. My husband still tells stories about going out to the draglines on Sundays with his granddaddy and collecting fossils, many of which we still have today. Since I began working for Mosaic, I’ve met with several people who worked with Earl over the years. I love hearing stories about him and about the mines in the 70s. While my family is very proud of our phosphate roots, we’re very cognizant of the fact that the industry is not my grandfather’s industry. We’ve made great strides in the last 40 years to be better environmental stewards and community partners.”

Neslund is based at Mosaic operations near Mulberry.

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December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 23

s errie. b f o a etern Florid k r a i r m es emieegetabl r p A v

and

Come Grow With Us 100 Stearn Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 Tel: 813.752.5111 www.wishfarms.com My wife loves to watch Paula Dean, Emeril and various cooking shows on TV. I’ll have to admit they come up with some dandy dishes. If my mother was alive today she would cook circles around those folks. She was the best at cooking up dishes from leftovers that were so good it would make you want to slap your daddy down.

Nita Berry would always say, you don’t throw out perfectly good leftover food stuff, ‘cause people in Africa might be starving. I’ll bet the kids in Africa may very well be hearing the same story. “Clean that plate, kids in the south may be starving.”

I offered to send my plate of liver and onions to Africa. That didn’t go over very well with Mama. She said that makes as much sense as your sister Betty’s prayer, Good meat, Good bread, Good Lord, Let’s eat.” Both of us got a talking to, and we learned to have respect for other nations and the Lord.

Growing up we had the best grub in town, and my friends, like Raymond Crum, loved to come over and eat her fried chicken, lima beans and fried okra. She could make the best coconut cake in town, and had a super recipe for homemade ice cream. I remember my job was to sit on the churn to hold it down while other members of the family took turns turning the handle. It would put Mayfield’s ice cream to shame!

I have noticed these days folks have suddenly decided it’s the thing to eat southern. You ain’t southern if you ain’t fried tators

24 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

in a skillet. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet you better get one if you want to start cooking southern style. You can even cook your dessert in it, like “Cast Iron Skillet Fried Apples.”

My friend, Alligator Bob, has the market covered in Plant City with his “Gator Tail” jerky. Fred Johnson’s restaurant at the farmers market puts the iron pots on the buffet with a long handled spoon, and you dig right in. Fred says, “You ain’t cook’n southern if you don’t use cast iron pots and pans.“ In Miami, at one of the fancy restaurants on the beach, they serve a Wilted Salad.

Mom tossed lettuce in the bacon grease when I was a child, and she never charged $8.95 for a bowl of the stuff. She would get a good head of lettuce from Bruton’s market and mix the grease left over from the breakfast bacon. Dad loved her pork rinds and pickled eggs. I wonder why Cracker Barrel doesn’t add some of these recipes to their menu if they really want to be noted as a first-class southern style restaurant?

I ran across a lady selling bacon soap among other things at her craft booth at the Florida Strawberry Festival. I was disappointed as it really didn’t smell like bacon.

Can you imagine? Your guests come over for dinner and wash their hands with bacon soap before eating and it doesn’t smell like bacon afterward?

West Virginia was having problems keeping up with road kill clean up in the ‘90s. So in 1998 the Senate passed a “Road Kill”

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bill. The bill said that you could eat what you hit, but you have to call within 12 hours and report it. West Virginia has a “Road Kill Cook Off” competition, too. As for me I can’t quite crank up an appetite for road kill.

In Blairsville, GA they have real honest-to-goodness southern cooking. At their Green Bean Festival they served shakes, cookies and cakes made with green beans. Their green bean pizza was a big hit. Next year they plan to have a frog leg and green bean pizza!

There’s nothing more southern than a watermelon cutting. I remember as a kid dad would put three or four watermelons in a tub of ice over night. After we let our Sunday lunch settle, around 3:00 in the afternoon, the family and relatives from Tampa and Clearwater would have a real old fashion watermelon cutting. I never won the seed spitting contest. My sister Betty always took that competition hands down.

I recall a time when some of the boys in senior high school would go out and try to snitch a couple of watermelons from a patch in Turkey Creek. After a couple of good trips they went back and the farmer had a sign that that read, “One watermelon has poison in it.” Not to be out done, the boys (I won’t call them by name as they are highly respected citizens in Plant City), put a footnote on the farmers sign that read, “Now There Two Melons with Poison.”

If you are a lover of watermelons then you may want to enter the Watermelon-Eating Championship in Brookville, Ohio. In 2005 a gentleman by the name of Jim Reeves ate 13 pounds of watermelon in 15 minutes. He won $1,000 for

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his endeavor. This event has been going on for over 60 years. For a while they renamed it “Swellin’ with the Melon” contest, but this title was not received well by the pregnant ladies club, and they went back to the original name of “Watermelon-Eating Championship.”

I’ll close with the story of Earl and Bubba. They were quietly sitting in a boat fishing, chewing tobacco and drinking RC Cola. Bubba said, “I think I’m gonna divorce my wife. She ain’t spoke to me in over three months.” Earl spits, sips his RC, and says, “Bubba, you’d better think that over, women like that are hard to find.”

December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 25

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PCSO Hosts Federal, State, and Local Agencies in Agro-Terrorism Exercise

by Sheriff Grady Judd for In The Field Magazine Imagine for a minute this scenario: a flatbed truck with four 1-ton chlorine cylinders on board is traveling along CR 630 near Hwy 37 near Bartow in Polk County. It runs through a stop sign, and strikes a commercial livestock hauler moving a load of 46 dairy heifers, severely damaging the cattle truck. Ten head of cattle are killed, and the rest are wounded. The less severely wounded cattle escape, wandering around the road. The damaged chlorine cylinders on the suspicious truck start to slowly release deadly chlorine gas into the atmosphere, blowing over a herd of more than 300 cattle grazing in nearby pastures. The driver and passenger of the flatbed truck flee the scene on foot just after causing the crash.

The first person on the scene is a ranch owner, who happens to be on his way to move his cattle from one of his fields to another. He sees the commercial livestock hauler sitting on the side of the road, and learns that the people responsible for the crash have fled the scene. The rancher immediately calls the Polk County Sheriff’s Office to report the incident, and calls back a few minutes later to report that the tanks on the suspicious truck are releasing an unknown gas into the air. He tells the dispatcher that he tried to approach the truck but his skin immediately started burning and he was having difficulty breathing. He also reports that some of the cattle are beginning to fall down and he is concerned that the gas is poisoning and killing the cattle.

The first emergency responders to arrive on-scene are PCSO deputies. As the incident unfolds, they discover that the truck is releasing chlorine, which is vaporizing into gas. The wind is carrying the gas plume over several nearby ranches that also have large cattle herds. Several of these ranchers are calling PCSO, requesting assistance in moving their cattle. One rancher calls his veterinarian, who arrives and determines that the incident should be reported to the State veterinarian, another rancher calls the local University of Florida’s Agricultural Extension Service and requests assistance. The rancher closest to the accident scene may lose up to 200 cattle, and he seeks guidance from authorities to remove his dead cattle, and decontaminate his other animals, land, and buildings. Meanwhile, PCSO deputies discover that the truck that caused the incident is stolen, and that the truck’s occupants are associated with a terrorist group.

It sounds like a nightmare, right? Thankfully this is a fictional scenario, and even more thankfully, it is the subject of an actual

26 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

exercise that took place in Polk County in December 2011.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s National Exercise Program is conducting a full-scale exercise, called “Operation Bovine Recovery,” on December 6, 2011. Thanks to the local Cattlemen’s Association, and land donated by Clear Springs Mines, the following local, state, and federal agencies, participated in this first-ever exercise of its kind, hosted by PCSO: U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Department of Agriculture, Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Florida Division of Emergency Management, State Agricultural Response Team, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Polk County Department of Health, Polk County Emergency Operations Center, Polk County Fire Department, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, local area veterinarians, and the local cattlemen’s association.

The purpose of the exercise was to prepare local and State agency personnel to effectively execute the following capabilities during a response to an agro-terrorism event: animal disease emergency support; communications; counter-terror investigation and law enforcement; food and agricultural safety and defense; and onsite incident management.

This particular exercise focused on an agro-terrorism attack by a domestic terrorist group protesting local cattlemen’s decisions to sell some of their land to an out-of-state developer who wants to build chemical and industrial plants. As you know, one of the top three industries in Polk County, among citrus and phosphate, is cattle. And emergency service agencies know that there is no such thing as being “too prepared.”

Exercises like these help the multitude of agencies and players involved understand and appreciate what each unique agency brings to the table. It also designates the anticipated roles and responsibilities for which each agency shall be responsible. Each player responds to his/her role in the exercise as if it were a real incident. After the day-long exercise is complete, participants evaluate and critique the results of the exercise.

We’d like to thank our local Cattlemen’s Association for providing the resources needed to make this exercise possible, as well as the Polk County residents who provided their land on which to conduct the exercise. See next month’s issue for the final results of the exercise, along with photos of Polk County Sheriff’s deputies conducting the exercise.

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The holiday isn’t complete without a fabulous array of delicious foods.

Roasted turkey, traditional dressing, seasoned prime rib, glazed ham, fresh fish, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, fresh fruits, and much more! Santa will stop by for photos. Three seating times available: 12 Noon, 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. Call to reserve your table soon!

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JANUARY 6 & 21 BRIAN ROMAN

One of Canada’s finest entertainers! Roman performs the classics – spanning the Golden Era, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones.

Destiny also performs.

DECEMBER 17 THE MYSTICS (A CHRISTMAS SHOW)

The Mystics, including, original members of the group, George Galfo and Phil Cracolici, will celebrate the spirit of the season with classical Christmas songs. The Las Vegas Sounds also perform.

DECEMBER 23 RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. Also, The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

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JANUARY 14 & 28 THE CONTOURS

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28 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 29

Pure Bred Florida Cracker

by Ginny Mink photos by Karen Berry and the Sullivan Family Archives

It’s

such a shame that our young people have lost their appreciation for their elders. They’ve so many amazing stories to share and yet we’re all too busy to engage in that old school form of communication.

These are the stories we’ll never get on Facebook and certainly not on the concise, Twitter. While we might be able to locate similar storylines in historical texts, most of us aren’t going to download them onto our iPads or Kindles. If your grandparents are still living, please take the time to listen to their stories, their genealogies, you never know what you’ll hear!

30 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 31

L to R – Dusty Holley, Jake Sullivan, Earli, Hunter Holley and Rawl Sullivan

Earli Sullivan was born in 1934 and at 77 years of age he’s full of spunk and sass and an incredible story. He comes from a long line of cattle ranchers. “I’m a pure bred Florida Cracker. You wouldn’t believe how far back I go in this state,” he says. “I think I am about the seventh or eighth generation. They (his family) were here way before the Civil War and they had cattle before that.

They drove cattle from Osceola County to Waycross, Georgia to the Confederate army for beef. They butchered ‘em and eat ‘em.”

Then, he continues, “My great great great great,” he pauses as if trying to count and adds, “I don’t know how many greats there are, you’d have to ask my wife – granddaddy stole cattle from the Indians. They killed his brother, Will, because they couldn’t get to him.”

Mr. Sullivan was born and raised in Osceola County. At four years old he entered school but he figures that was just to baby-sit him. He says, “I’d slip out when the teacher wasn’t looking and crawl under the school house and chew my tobacco, every now and then you’d see a kid’s head peep under. I guess they was just checkin’ to see if I was alright.” Four years old seems awfully young to start such a habit, but he explains, “I chewed tobacco since I was two years old, chewed for 62 years. I quit about ten years ago.”

Though he no longer chews he recalls picking his teeth until they’d bleed so that the teacher would send him outside to the school house steps to spit. He’d stay out there as long as he could and chew the “George Washington Chewing tobacco,” the teacher’s husband provided him with. “I’d do that as much as I could get away with,” he chuckles.

The school he’s talking about was located on the Goodman Settlement. “One teacher taught all grades, Mrs. Reeves. She had a cane fishing pole and we sat on benches and she would walk down the aisle; that pole could reach from one end to the other. You got

32 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

to fooling around and that whip would come down on your back and you’d straighten up. Seemed like we had fun but she wasn’t bashful ‘bout using it.” He started there in fourth grade after his family moved from the Green Swamp area. He says, “Momma made all my shirts out of feed sacks, but she bought my britches.

All the townspeople thought we were hicks and I guess we was. You had to fight your way through it and then I guess it was alright.”

Reminiscing he says, “That old adage about taking a bath once a week is true. There was a pitcher pump at the end of the porch, a wash pan basin, and dipper for drinking water. Years ago they used to have a kitchen that was separate from the rest of the house; that was in case it burned down you could save the rest of the house. Momma would heat the water and we’d wash down. I guess we stunk but I never noticed,” he laughs at this revelation.

This brings him to another memory, “One summer we was marking and branding and we went down to the range and it was raining and raining and the cow pens were so muddy. You could stand a pair of Levis in the corner because they were so thick with mud.

Wouldn’t change clothes, there was no point. Back then we didn’t know any better and we didn’t mind. You worked from the time you could see in the morning ‘til you couldn’t see at night.”

Still envisioning the past he adds, “I remember we had wooden barrels where they salted the meat and they had holes bore in ‘em around the bottom and there were holes drilled in the floor and the brine would drain out there. I’d see my momma reach in and pull a piece of pork out, cut off what was needed for the day then stick it back in and resalt it. She’d boil water in a frying pan and put the meat in to get rid of the salt. She’d do that a few times. It was still pretty salty though. You could tote it in your saddle pack for weeks.

If mold got on it you could just scrape it off, it wouldn’t hurt ya none.”

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Earli and Marlene’s 55th anniversary– March 16, 2009

He continues, “Daddy would leave on horseback in the morning. He’d fix the groceries me and my nephew were to bring out when we got off school. All you needed was a sweet tater, biscuit and some smoked bacon. Ma made big ole biscuits. They was pretty crusty on top and bottom and when you wanted somethin’ sweet you’d poke a hole and fill it with cane syrup the night before, it would soak through the whole biscuit and you’d put more in before you left. If you didn’t have that, you’d take one slice of bacon and eat a big biscuit but hold the meat skin back when you swallowed. You could eat a whole biscuit with one piece of bacon that way,” he chuckles.

Meat and biscuits weren’t the only staple for them, “We had guineas so we had boiled eggs. They wouldn’t break up, like chicken eggs do, they was real hard if you wrapped them individually before you put ‘em in your pack. We’d take a ‘mater can, cut the top off, put a wire ring around it and that was what you called a boiler to make your coffee. You could tie it to your bridal ring and drop it into the water, get yourself a drink without having to get off your horse. We always ate by a spring, creek or pond where we always had water.”

While living on the ranch in Green Swamp he says, “Momma would go to town once a month, maybe every two months, got dried beans by the sack full. I was a senior in high school before we had electricity and never had running water ‘til I was out of school.” At some point someone in the family got a car.

Then, he explains, “Every Saturday they’d go into town and get ice wrapped in sacks and tie it to the bumper of the Model A. Sometimes it’d last ‘til Monday and we had iced tea as long as it lasted. Daddy never learned to drive. Everywhere he went he rode his horse.”

Mr. Sullivan admits that he lived a life much like the one de-

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scribed in The Yearling, but times have certainly changed. When his dad died he inherited a piece of the ranch and then bought his brothers out. Now he owns 800 acres and leases about 3000-5000 more. The family has 500-600 head of cattle though there was a time when he had nearly 1000. Mr. Sullivan spent 28 and a half years as a game warden for the state, “but the whole time I was with the state,” he explains, “I still had cattle. I wouldn’t transfer higher because I couldn’t leave my cattle. They’re an insurance policy really and truly. I’ve tried farming, I’ve tried it all. Cattle was always the mainstay though. I was born into the cow business.”

He still follows an old family tradition, “My Daddy gave me a calf when I was born just like I do with all my kids, grandkids and great grandkids. Next week we’ll be marking and branding three heifers. They’ll have their own brand but use their Momma and Daddy’s mark. They’re registered like that. My brand, FC, was my Momma and Daddy’s, it’s 100 years old. The State of Florida wanted the FC but I wouldn’t give it to ‘em. I hope that it stays generation to generation on down. I hope my son and daughter will keep using it.” The state does use, FC, but the placement of the C is different than the Sullivan’s family brand.

Mr. Sullivan’s been married to his wife for 58 years on their next anniversary. They have two children, a son and a daughter, seven grandkids and ten great grandkids. “Every one of them fool with the cattle. This is a total family operation and it has been the whole time,” he emphasizes. If you are interested in finding out the specifics of his family tree, which include relations to Zephaniah Kingsley, previous owner of the Kingsley Plantation, you should definitely check out Mary Ida Bass Barber Shearhart’s book: Florida’s Frontier: The Way Hit Wuz. It’s available on Amazon.

December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 33

Florida Sport Horse Club

by Cheryl Lewis

Florida Sport Horse Club held its fourth annual versatility schooling, desensitizing clinic and challenge on November 12 at ‘Bout Tyme Ranch, north of Winter Haven.

It was a perfect day for the event with bright blue skies and pleasant temperatures. The ranch, owned by Charles and Judy Cloninger, was the perfect setting, with rolling pastures, woods and even a creek inhabited by an inflated plastic “gator.”

Trailers began arriving early and soon the ranch was alive with horse lovers socializing and getting their prized, beautiful animals ready to try out some challenges, old and new. Seminole Feed provided a horse scale so people could see if their horses were as perfect as they looked, at least in the weight department.

Thirty-seven riders signed up to practice on obstacles set up all around the property. During the morning, the horses were schooled in approximately 35 challenges. They came from various Polk County locations as well as Lake Butler, Ocala, Clermont, Sarasota, Lutz, Orlando and Geneva.

After lunch in the barn, the obstacle challenge began.

Twenty-five riders signed up to participate in the judged event.

In all aspects of the challenge, safety was the first and foremost consideration. Riders younger than 16 were required to wear a helmet and have an adult nearby as they navigated the course. Riders were reminded not to try to force the horse to do something that would scare him and that the judges had the final word if they felt a situation was not safe.

Obstacle stations included a variety of curtains for the horses to walk through, like hanging aluminum pie pans and wind socks, vertical and horizontal “noodle” curtains, sheets

34 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

and water misters. The horses were asked to walk across a water hole, tarps placed on pillows, a frame filled with rattling dried palmetto fronds, a teeter-totter and a narrow wooden bridge over a canal. They dragged a log and a noisy bucket. Horses pushed a big ball through an alley of poles, jumped across a “dragon,” and “kissed” a giant stuffed gorilla sitting in a chair. There were many other obstacles that tested a horse’s willingness to do what its rider asked.

Judy Cloninger, also the club’s treasurer, said, “It’s about horsemanship – building a rapport with your horse and teaching the horse to trust you.”

Judges scored horses on a scale of zero to 10 at each obstacle.

For a score of 10, the horse had to move willingly and obediently toward and through the obstacle with no hesitation and no obvious encouragement from the rider.

For a score of five, the horse moved forward, but was resistant with a stop or two. The horse looked closely at the obstacle and needed obvious encouragement from the rider.

If the horse thought the exercise was a really bad idea and couldn’t be convinced otherwise, a score of zero was given.

Judge Vicki Booth said, “We look for willingness of the horse to do what you ask them to do, and agility. You want them to complete the task correctly. There is a time limit to complete the obstacle, and some are also timed exercises. We’ll be looking at the whole demeanor and attitude of the horse.” It was Booth’s first time to judge a challenge although she participates as a rider in two or three events a year. “For those of us who ride for fun,

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www.mosaicfla.com these clinics are very useful,” she said.

In addition to being fair, all the judges were cordial and encouraging.

According to the club’s web site, Florida Sport Horse Club is dedicated to trail riding and the preservation of riding areas in central Florida. They ride every weekend and have many barbecues and campouts throughout the year. The club is familyoriented and is open to all breeds of horses.

Meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at St. John’s United Methodist Church, 1800 Cypress Gardens Blvd., S.E., Winter Haven. The web site is www.FLAhorse.com/fshc.

Winners in the junior category (through age 19) were Katie Deines, first place, Lauren Rhodes, second place, and Kasey Rhodes, third place.

In the Bronze Spurs category (ages 20-45), Vicky West took first, Ross Harper finished in second and Julia Marshall won third place.

In the Silver Spurs category (ages 46-59), first place went to Carol Bemman, second to Barbara Lassiter and third place to Karen Norris.

Winners in the Golden Spurs category for ages 60 and older were Larry Jacklin, first place, Becky Jacklin, second and Mary Ann Robins, third place.

First place was good for $25, second place took home $15 and third place won $10. Horse related door prizes were also awarded. Seminole Feed provided four of the prizes – each consisting of two 50-pound bags of feed.

At the end of the day, everyone agreed that the event had been a great success. A fine time was had by all, equine and human.

36 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 37

Nutritional Therapy for Better Plant Health!

s e s s a l Ag C y s a E t ’ Ain l l a H a h t Kei

Keitha at Stonehenge

by Ginny Mink

Keitha and Dillon Nix—state proficiency winner in Turf Grass Management

Last Year’s State Winning Citrus Team Left to right: Keitha Hall, Risa Langford, Jennifer Myers, Clayton Kiddey, Morgan Carlton

National Chapter Photo-Left to right: Keitha Taylor Walker, Bayleigh Hall & Avalon Warrenn

38 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

In the public school system agriculture classes are considered “electives” much like PE, music and art. Thusly, many who teach “core” classes, like English, science and math have a tendency to look down their noses at those who teach what they deem “fun” courses. What is most unfortunate is the fact that PE is the “core” to good health, music has been linked with higher scores on standardized tests thereby it’s the “core” of our intellectual success, art is the grounds in which creativity blossoms, and agriculture is the “core” of our very existence! Perhaps we need to reevaluate the labeling of academic curriculum? If nothing else, it would do some good for educators to understand the import of those “elective” classes, at least Ag, that is, if they enjoy eating.

Keitha Hall is one of two Ag teachers at Kathleen High School in Lakeland.

She grew up in Haines City. However, she said, “We really didn’t have a farm but my great uncle had a 20-acre pig farm right next to my house so I played with the pigs and helped with that. I didn’t have any experience (with Ag) until sixth grade when I took it in the wheel program. I got involved in FFA then and I continued to take Ag through high school.” While in high school, Keitha participated on the citrus team and was awarded High Individual in the state. “At the Polk County Youth Fair we can grow citrus trees as part of our projects and so that’s what I did. I showed hogs too, but nothing major,” she humbly explains.

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After high school, Keitha says, “I went to UF not really knowing what I wanted to do besides be a gator and go to college. So when it came time to pick a major I went with what I felt most confident in which was agriculture and citrus.

The College of Ag definitely welcomes students and makes them feel part of it ‘cause it’s easy to get lost on a campus of 50,000 students.” While there she received her degree in horticulture with a specialty in fruit crops. “I intended to work in the citrus industry but that didn’t work out. I couldn’t get a job so I worked in landscaping at Disney for a year and then I took a job teaching Ag in middle school at Dundee Ridge in 1999. I taught there for two years.”

When Jack Halabrin, Keitha’s former Ag teacher, decided to retire, she said, “He wanted me to take his job so I transferred there in the 2001-2002 school year.” She worked with Paul Reed, the man she’d taken ninth grade Ag classes with. Then she says she moved to Lakeland. That’s the reason she left her eight-year position at Haines City and ended up transferring to Kathleen. While change is often difficult it seems good things have come of it. “Kathleen was named Ag program of the year this year through Polk County’s Farm Bureau. Last year we had the state winning citrus team, forestry team, five state proficiency winners, were named a 3 Star Chapter through National FFA, and Florida’s Finest FFA Chapter. There were 27 selected overall.”

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Kathleen’s Ag program consists of 240-245 students between Keitha and Kyle Carlton. Keitha says, “I teach the foundations classes which are the basic ninth grade introductory Ag classes, and I teach aquaculture, and Ag communications. In FFA the teams I coach are the citrus team, the parliamentary procedures, most of the speaking events (the creed, prepared speech, extemporaneous contest), and Ag issues, and the aquaculture team.”

Currently Kathleen is a school under construction and thusly part of its land lab is being used to house portables and heavy equipment, but there’s plenty of other features to their Ag program. “We have land that we maintain, we have mostly pigs at school and some small animals, chickens and rabbits. We’re working on an aquaculture lab. It’s been quite an ordeal to put together. We’re going to raise tropical ornamental fish. Hopefully it will be put together soon. We have all the stuff, over 200 tanks in the room, some spawning tanks and some grow out. It’s just an issue of proper plumbing now.

We’re waiting on some more pieces from the school board and hopefully it will be up and running.” They also have, “a green house, a swine barn (houses about 20 hogs), a cattle barn, a garden area and a nursery area.”

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While they’re in the middle of strawberry growing season, citrus is what Keitha loves so the citrus grove on campus is an added bonus. Most groves contain one species but Keitha explains, “We don’t have just one variety. We have a few of each variety so we can use them for teaching for the citrus contests.” Obviously this has been beneficial given Kathleen’s recent success in the citrus arena.

When asked about a wish list for her program she responds, “I wish I had a secretary. Isn’t that funny?” she chuckled and continued, “I definitely wish our land lab was in a situation in which we could utilize it for larger animals. We need new fencing. The Kathleen community is very supportive, most of what we need they step up for that so we’re really lucky. We have some local fish farmers who are going to help us out when we get the aquaculture lab up and running. They’re real good to help out when they can and Carlos Martinez at IFAS in Ruskin connected us. Urban Tropical is going to give us fish and expertise. We’re helping them run their Toys for Tots Drive at Christmas.”

In closing, Keitha wanted to add that, “there’s a huge misconception of Ag education. People think it’s an easy class which is false because we offer an

December 2011

Keitha with Adam Putnam in Washington DC during FFA’s Washington Leadership Conference

extremely challenging curriculum and give students the opportunity to excel in something they like and are interested in, and I think that’s overlooked.” Point well made!

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 39

A Closer Look: Christmas Tree Critters

A Closer Look: Christmas Tree Critters

By Sean Green

By now many of us have had a tree in the house for a or dying trees, cut Christmas trees included. A healthy living week or two. You may find out of state conifer will release sap at the wound site visitors in your home that arrived on the preventing the beetle from entering the tree you brought in to decorate. Most tree. Trees that have been cut and sitting Christmas trees at roadside stands are around long enough to attract beetles will grown out of state. Douglas fir and Noble likely have small round exit holes and fir for example are grown in Oregon and possibly sawdust on the bark caused by the Fraser fir in North Carolina. Christbeetles that have emerged from the inner mas trees are grown in all 50 states with bark. These insects present no danger the exception of Hawaii and Alaska, yet to the wood in your home, there is not artificial trees still dominate the Christenough moisture in it for the beetle to mas tree industry. Ask someone to justify survive. their choice of a natural or artificial and Adelgidae are related to aphids you may be in for a heated conversation. and are associated with conifers such as Compelling arguments fuel an ongoing pine and spruce. This insect resembles array of controversy ranging from envithe woolly aphid and mealybugs with ronmental responsibility to economic and its fluffy white topping and can pass even political interests. For many however, for snow with a little imagination. The it’s all about the bugs. This month we will adelgid feed off the sap from the phloem take a closer look at the bugs that affect of the tree and will soon die trying to get this specialized agricultural industry and nutrition from a cut tree. empower our community to be motivated Spiders found on Christmas trees more by knowledge than marketing efare either an overwintering species that forts. have become active or spiderlings that Mantid Before understanding the insects that have hatched after being exposed to warm Photo by Clemson University may be found on a Christmas tree, we temperatures. They may run off and spin USDA Cooperative Extension Slide a web in a corner of your home, but keep must first understand the tree. Conifers Series, Bugwood.org are trees that produce seeds in cones and in mind, they came from a tree, and they are called evergreens because they do are an outdoor species. Spiders found in not shed their leaves (needles) like other your tree will not survive the domestic trees. The needles are coated with a wax environment of your home and can be substance that helps them retain water in observed and appreciated for the short the dryer winter months and the tree itself duration they will survive. produces sap, a resin that not only keeps Despite which insect species you the tree from freezing in the wintertime, find on a natural tree, you can regard any but is an amazing food source in addiinsect as an indication of a tree that is tion to the pine cones, leaves, and inner fresh and recently harvested. It’s imporbark. With this in mind, we can conclude tant to keep it that way. Natural trees that your home lacks what they need to are becoming a popular choice again Bark Beetle survive. Now that we know natural trees as more home owners are realizing the Photo by Ron Long, Simon Fraser are safe for the home, let’s look at only a agricultural benefits of recycling natural few of the insects you may find (if you’re trees. Every year Christmas tree recycling University, Bugwood.org lucky). programs create mulch from the comMantids can be found throughout the munity and for the community. Those United States. We have about 12 species of us that have experienced the tradition in Florida. I have seen their egg sacs on of a natural tree know the unforgettable conifers more than any other tree. These smell that makes childhood memories insects are completely harmless to humans of Christmas everlasting. At one time, but will likely attempt to eat any insects the family tradition for many Americans you have in the house. A mantis egg sac on included selecting and cutting a Christyour tree may hatch because the warmth mas tree that was still growing. Unfortuof your home will mimic spring time. The nately, you-cut Christmas tree farms are babies are adorable in their resemblance to not as abundant in central Florida as they Adelgidae tiny adults. could be but we do have a couple. I will Bark Beetles are a specialized member Photo by John A. Weidhass, Virginia be looking for signs of insects on the tree of the weevil family. Many species are I select, for me it’s a Christmas gift from Polytechnic Institute and State Unionly associated with one or two species nature, a fascinating surprise. versity, Bugwood.org of conifer trees. They reproduce in dead

40 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 41

Naturally Amazing Activities The Versatile Pine Tree

by Sean Green

Pinaceae is the scientific classification of trees that make up the Pine family and include conifers of economic importance such as cedars, firs, pines, spruces and hemlocks. These trees provide key and component material for a surprising number of everyday products and are the family of trees most commonly used for Christmas celebrations in North America.

Like the cattail, nearly every part of the pine tree can be used as food or a tool. I was recently inspired to acknowledge and explore the gifts of this tree after soaking in some literature and video produced by the late botanist Frank Cook. I realized how little I know about natural agriculture and the value that would result in more research and experience. This month we will celebrate the amazing versatility of the Pinaceae family by sharing with you some of the gifts this tree has to offer.

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Needles

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Pine Needles are said to be loaded with vitamin C. Native Americans shared their knowledge of this natural gift with European settlers that were suffering from scurvy, a disease resulting from vitamin C deficiency. Fresh pine needles can be chewed on like a grass, and dry needles can be ground or minced and used as seasoning. By far the most common use of pine needles is to make a tea out of them.

Pine Needle Tea

1. Collect a few clusters of fresh pine needles (tender ones will be at the end of the branch) 2. Cut needles into 1 inch pieces, 3. Simmer to taste (about 20 min) sweeten with honey

Pine Straw

For those of you wondering what to do with your natural tree after the holidays, consider mulching it for yourself. Pine needles interlock preventing the mulch from moving around in heavy watering or rain. Pine straw retains moisture longer and provides better root insulation than other mulches. Two or three inches of Pine straw will prevent weeds from growing and provide a warm home for beneficial insects.

Pitch

Pitch is the resin that conifers produce, and when fossilized becomes amber. It’s probably the most versatile portion of the tree. This thick fluid is flammable, waterproof, and packed with nutritional, antiseptic, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Pine Pitch Torch

1. Split a small branch with the grain of the wood to form four tines (like a tiki torch.)

2. Wedge a seashell into the tines to create a small bowl for holding the pine pitch 3. Drip pine pitch on to a seashell to ignite for a small torch or just use the seashell alone as a small table lamp.

42 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

December 2011

In addition to being a healthy food source, pine pitch has many antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties and can be used as a temporary poultice for wounds, especially handy for removing difficult splinters and disinfecting the wound. Pine pitch is also a topical antiseptic and remedy for split horse hooves.

Pine Pitch Sealant

Pine pitch was heated to a liquid and used to seal leather, wood, and gourd canteens. It was also used to seal boats, and baskets. The pitch itself, remember, is an antimicrobial and will act as a disinfectant so long as no water is trapped in the container you are sealing.

Conifers produce seeds within the cone that are released when the cone opens either naturally while on the tree or as a result of heat. Some pine cones will only open with heat.

These seeds are known as pine nuts. In Florida we do not have native pines that will produce seeds large enough to use as a staple food like the southwestern species but if you are willing to put forth the effort, our sunflower sized pine seeds can be enjoyed as a novelty.

Pine Nuts

1. Place closed pine cones in a burlap sack, 2. Set the sack in the sun for a day or two (or in a hot Florida car) 3. Once the cones open, shake the seeds out by tapping the cone on a hard surface.

Bark

There are claims that the inner bark of a pine tree is good for human consumption. Although the potential energy benefit from glucose in Phloem layer is not disputed, there are compelling grounds for seeking better sources of food. Wood is a composition of three major chemical components, Cellulose, Hemicellulose, and Lignin. There are few animals that are capable of digesting food sources with high fiber and cellulose content. Ruminant animals such as cows rely on intestinal bacteria to break down the cellulose chains and digest fiber.

Even termites rely on intestinal fungi and bacteria to break the chemical bonds of cellulose. Heating the inner bark seems to be a popular preparation method and perhaps the only means of extracting nutrition from this source. All things considered, the Pine tree remains a versatile tool and food source.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 43

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“Everything for the Florida Farmer” Hello Everyone, I would first like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Many members have spent the past few months preparing for Career Development Events (CDE’s) Sub-District Competitions. Contests were held December 6 at various schools throughout the county.

At the contests canned foods were collected to feed needy families for the holidays.

Good luck to everyone competing at Sub-Districts!

Polk County has some amazing FFA members and I would like to highlight a few chapters and their accomplishments. Kathleen Senior took second place at the State Citrus contest as well as Dundee Ridge Middle FFA. Nicole Green of Kathleen and Katrina Perkins of Dundee scored as high individuals. Congratulations on both of these outstanding chapters!

Once again Merry Christmas to everyone, I look forward to hearing about more outstanding FFA news after the New Year.

Merry Christmas,

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44 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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December 2011

Hannah Terrebonne

Polk FFA Federation President www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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Brooke Shirah is a charter member of Tenoroc FFA. She entered ninth grade the first year Tenoroc High School opened and jumped right in to FFA. She helped establish the chapter and has served as student advisor, reporter, secretary, and currently as president. Brooke didn’t have the opportunity to join FFA in middle school, but that didn’t stop her interest thanks to her family, most formerly active FFA members themselves.

Since 2008, Brooke has participated in many Career Development Events including Ornamental Horticulture Demonstrations, Creed Speaking, Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Poultry Judging, and Forestry. Brooke and her partner won fourth in the state last year with their landscaping OH Demo, the first Tenoroc FFA members to walk across stage at State Convention for a CDE. Brooke received her Greenhand, Chapter, and State Degrees, and plans to apply for her American Degree after graduation.

Brooke has attended Chapter Officer Leadership Training, Florida Leadership Adventures, Forestry Camp, Chapter Officer Retreats, and the Florida FFA State Convention. Brooke will attend the Chapter President’s Conference and National FFA Convention this year. Brooke has an outgoing personality and is able to make friends everywhere she goes. This also helps her reach out to the members of Tenoroc FFA. Brooke has coordinated Leadership Day at the chapter level for the past four years and has been very involved in the planning of Tenoroc FFA’s annual Farm Fair, in addition to participating in Agri-Fest and Ag Literacy Day. Encouraging students and teaching them about agriculture is Brooke’s passion.

Rabbits and poultry make up Brooke’s Supervised Agriculture Experience and is something that allows her to work closely with

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her “Pap,” Ray Jackson. Among all the CDEs, SAEs, and chapter activities, Brooke offers much of her time in the way of community service. Brooke has participated in Wreaths Across America, the Relay for Life, fence building at the Tenoroc Agriculture Department, and countless hours with the Combee Rodeo Association.

Brooke, the daughter of Kevin and Christi Shirah, has been essential to the establishment of Tenoroc FFA and is excited about her senior year. While Brooke is still unsure what exactly she wants to do as a career, she plans to attend college after graduation.

Brooke has developed into an excellent leader over the past three year and, no doubt, will be successful in future endeavors.

December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 45

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 47

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 51

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Black Sapote

by Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicine, B.S. Nutrition Science A nutritious fruit that tastes like chocolate pudding sounds too good to be true! The Florida black sapote is a delicious, creamy fruit that takes on the color and texture of chocolate pudding when ripe. Hence, this fruit is also called chocolate pudding fruit, chocolate fruit, and black persimmon. Black sapote is a type of persimmon, and not related to mamey sapote or white sapote. This fruit is at its peak between December and March.

The black sapote resembles a large, round tomato that ranges from two to four inches in diameter. When ripe, its pulp is creamy with a sweet, mild flavor. The inedible skin turns from olive green to a deeper yellow-green when ripe. In the United States, black sapotes are mainly grown in Florida. This fruit is very low in fat and a great source of vitamins and minerals.

Nutritional Profile

According to the University of Florida, 100g (about 1/3 cup) of edible black sapote contains 130 calories, 35 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of protein, and less than 1 gram of fat. This fruit also provides plenty of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and vitamins A and C.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is well known for its contribution to good vision and healthy eyes. In a study of over 50,000 women, those who consumed the most vitamin A in their diet had a 39 percent reduced risk of developing cataracts. Cataracts are a common problem plaguing many older adults, but a diet rich in vitamin A can be protective.

Additionally, data from a large study of over 100,000 men and women indicated that eating three or more servings of fruit per day lowered the risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) by 36 percent, compared with people who ate less than 1.5 servings of fruit per day. ARMD is the primary cause of vision loss in older adults. Researchers concluded that the vitamins and carotenoids in fruit were responsible for the protective effect on the development of ARMD. Black sapote, and other foods rich in vitamin A, may also be beneficial to lung health. Researchers at Kansas State University discovered that carcinogens in cigarette smoke may deplete the body’s stores of vitamin A, and increase the likelihood of developing emphysema and lung cancer. They also discovered that a diet rich in vitamin A can reduce the risk of emphysema in smokers.

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How to Select and Store

Eat black sapote when fully ripe. Look for sapotes with soft, wrinkled skin and a black pulp. It will have a soft texture when squeezed. Refrigerate unwashed, ripe fruit for up to three to five days. For longer storage, the pulp may be frozen. If unripe, allow the fruit to ripen uncovered at room temperature for five or six days.

How to Enjoy

Black sapote are delicious when eaten out-of-hand. To eat, simply cut off the top and scoop out the fruit with a spoon to enjoy the chocolate pudding-like treat. Discard the seeds and peel.

Black sapote pulp can be pureed with vanilla or any fruit juice (orange or pineapple are especially good) for a simple dessert.

Sapote can also be blended into milk or ice cream for a chocolate treat. The pulp can be used as a filling for pies or drinks or incorporated into a moist cake.

Try fresh Florida black sapote today! This fruit is at its peak now during the winter months. Any fruit that resembles chocolate is not to be missed!

Farm Supplies • Western Wear Pet Supplies • Liquid Feed

4865 State Road 60 East Lake Wales, FL 33859

2975 Hwy. 60 E., Bartow, FL • 863-533-1814

863.679.5283

8:30-5:30 M-F 8:30-1:00 Sat

Polk’s Growing Businesses PO Box 227| Lake Wales, FL 33859 Dr. Bennett: (863) 287-8413 office: (863) 676-8051 fax: (863) 676-8053 polkequine@yahoo.com

A Mobile Unit Providing: • General Medicine & After Hours Care • Lameness (Digital Radiology)

Selected References

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/black_sapote.html http://www.whfoods.com

• • • •

Dentistry Reproduction Ophthalmology Ultrasound

Ask About Our Equine Wellness Plans

Precision PUMP Service A Division of Precision Citrus Hedging & Topping, Inc.

INDOOR RANGE

Pump Repair & Service Water Conditioning Turbine Diesels Installed Commercial Residential Serving Florida One Pump at a Time

Don’t Cuss, Call Us!

863-439-1852 PO Box 1921• Haines City, FL 33845

Vitamin C is often touted for its ability to fight colds and viruses and maintain healthy skin and gums. This important antioxidant fights off free radicals, compounds that cause cell

December 2011

Owner Operator

damage and widespread inflammation in the body. Vitamin C lowers cancer risk and helps regenerate vitamin E levels. Additionally, this vitamin increases iron absorption. Consuming a vitamin C-rich food, such as black sapote, alongside a food such as spinach will increase the amount of iron absorbed from the spinach by the body. Vitamin C plays a strong protective role in the body, providing protection from cardiovascular disease, cancer, joint disease, and cataracts.

Vitamin C

52 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

Frank Favuzza Jr.

FREE

Set up, Tune & Range Time with Purchase of New Bow

1 East Wall Street, Frostproof, FL 33843 E-Mail: spurlows.outdoors@hotmail.com

Frostproof, FL • 863-635-0240

www.spurlows.com

• BOWS (All Major Makes & Models) • ARROWS-STRINGSCROSSBOWS • LARGEST SELECTION OF ARROWS & BROADHEADS

Please patronize these fine businesses in your area. www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

December 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 53

813-759-6909

Classifieds

Animals

KUBOTA L275 With shuttle shift. Ready to work! $3,500. Call 813-759-8722.

ANIMAL & BIRD CAGES Add living microbes to improve your soil, Equipment serving the fur-bearing and exotic bird industry. Cages built to order.

Wire by roll or foot. 813-752-2230 www.ammermans.com Swap July 15, 2012 and Nov. 25, 2012.

Building Supplies DECKING BRDS. & TILL SIDING Call Ted 813-752-3378.

DOUBLE INSULATED THERMO PANE Starting at $55. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

SURPLUS WINDOWS DOUBLE INSULATED Starting at $55. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

MOBILE HOME-SIZED WINDOW SCREENS We make window screens of all sizes available in different frame colors. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

TILL 4 X 8 SHEET B-grade $17.95. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

MASSEY FERGUSON 2300L 4x4 w/loader, 277 hours, 22.5 hp, $7,000. Call Robby 863-537-1345.

NEW HOLLAND TC29 TRACTOR/LOADER 29 pto hp, 268 hrs, $13,000 (UT6406). Ask for David 813-623-3673 KUBOTA L2600 27 hp, 2 wd, 2334 hours, $2,750.

Call Alvie 813-759-8722.

BOLENS G154 DIESEL TRACTOR 15 hp, 4x4, 3 pt. lift, $2,500.

Call Alvie 813-759-8722.

MASSEY FERGUSON 2003 GC2300 4 X 4 hydro stat transmission, 2702 hrs. $5,350 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 2010 BOBCAT CT445 45hp tractor/loader, 4X4, three point lift, live pto, hydro stat transmission, skid bucket. 171 hrs. Warranty $17,900 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

NEW DOORS CLOSEOUT SPECIAL!!! $75 to $295. Call Ted today 813-752-3378.

1996 MASSEY FERGUSON 235 TRACTOR 34pto hp. 2wd. Very good condition $4,950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

MOBILE HOME TUBS Metal brand new in box 54” Mobile Home Tubs. Call Ted 813-752-3378

1984 MASSEY FERGUSON 240 tractor, 42 pto hp, 2wd, works great! $5,950. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

Coupons SAVICH & LEE/STALNAKER Horse Fence 200’x4’, Sheep & Goat Fence 330’x4’ 1 to 3 rolls - $2.50 off, 4 or more $5 off, 10 piece limit. Field fence 47” 1-8 $2.50 off, 9 or more - $5 off, 10 piece limit.

Barbed Wire - 5 or more - $1 off 10 piece limit. Pick up ONLY while supplies last.

See our ad on page 41 for pricing.

Equine Services HORSE BOARDING Stalls and individual turnout, lighted arena and round pen. Owners on property. $300 full care. Call 813-610-4416.

Farm Equipment HEAVY DUTY TRAILER 14’ Shop built, heavy duty trailer, 2 axel with ramps. $750.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722.

NEW MAHINDRA 6530 2wd, 65hp. Dual remotes, 5 year warranty. $16,919.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722.

MASSEY FERGUSON 255 Grove Tractor with 6’ mower $7,500. Call Alvie 813-759-8722.

54 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

INTERNATIONAL 34443 Diesel tractor with loader, 3 point lift, pto.

Runs and works. $3,750 Call Alvie 813-7598722

Feed FERTILIZED BAHIA HAY FOR SALE 4x5 rolls $30ea., 800 rolls available. Call for pick up 863-287-3091 or 863-294-1650.

Jobs HIRING Hiring Dairymen, Milk Reliever, Experienced. Housing/Boarding Possible, pay based on experience. AI, Calving & Equipment, Knowledge a plus. Espanol Call 813-785-7529 CONTRIBUTING WRITER Write about events in your community.

Immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Paid per article. Responsibilites include covering community events and taking pictures. Email your resume to sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Sales, account management. Immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Email your resume to info@inthefieldmagazine.com

December 2011

info@inthefieldmagazine.com

Lawn Equipment/Supplies RUBBER MULCH All colors, buy 10 bags, get 1 FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

Real Estate 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-Rual) Please call Marne Vorndran for more information 863-899-9784.

BLAIRSVILLE GEORGIA MLS# 213989 Imaculate, shows like new, open, bright, airy, lots of glass.

Split plan, one bedroom & bath on each side of great room.

Fireplace, back porch for grilling out. A must see. 2 car garage with separate doors for each car, work area in garage, basement finished except for garage. Priced to sell!!! $149,900. Call Jane Baer w/ Jane Baer Realty. 1-800-820-7829.

BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA MLS #191458 Prepare to love this well-kept 2BR cabin with a seasonal mountain view. This enticing 1 1/2 story provides gas fireplace, loft, wood flooring, main-level laundry, central air, ceiling fans, Nottley River priveleges, covered porch and a simple, no-fuss landscape. Fishing.

Call Jane Baer w/Jane Baer Realty 1-800-820-7829.

2.66 ACRE NURSERY FOR SALE OR LEASE N. Lakeland with 1,000 sq ft frame house, 2 sheds, irrigation throughout. Call Bruce 863-698-0019.

ESTATE SALE Large double-wide mobile home, partially furnished, 2 BR/2 ba, large kitchen, huge living room, laundry room, front screenin porch, covered double carport, utility room, Located in Country Meadows Adult Park in Plant City. Asking $23,000. Call Al at 813-763-2220.

FOR SALE 4 Acres West of Plant City, one 1/4 mile south of 92 on Bethlehem on the west side.

Total frontage 557’ dry land front 63’, depth of 305’. Back of dryland is 125’ water stream runs though property and great for cabin and animals. Asking $15,000. Call 813-707-8520

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GM IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH FARM BUREAU® TO BRING YOU THIS VALUABLE OFFER1.

Farm Bureau members can get a $5001 private offer toward the purchase or lease of most new GM vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD lineup. Visit fbverify.com for more details. They get tough jobs done with a maximum payload of up to 6,635 lbs.2 and a conventional towing capacity of up to 17,000 lbs.3 And through the GM Business Choice Program4, business owners receive even more when purchasing or leasing an eligible Chevrolet or GMC truck or van for business use. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com for details.

1Offer valid toward the purchase of new 2011 and 2012 Buick, Chevrolet and GMC models, excluding Chevrolet Volt.

2Requires Regular Cab model and gas engine. Maximum payload capacity includes weight of driver, passengers, optional equipment and cargo.

3Requires available 6.6L Duramax® diesel engine. Maximum trailer ratings assume a properly-equipped base vehicle plus drive. See dealer for details.

4To qualify, vehicles must be used in the day-to-day operation of the business and not solely for transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. This program may not be compatible with other offers or incentive programs. Consult your local Chevrolet or GMC dealer or visit gmbusinesschoice.com for program compatibility and other restrictions. Take delivery by 9/30/2012.

Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau Federation® are registered service marks owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation, and are used herein (or by GM) under license. ©2011 General Motors LLC

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