In The Field Magazine - Polk January 2012

January 15 - February 15, 2012 ®

THE RARE BREEDS

The People Who Make a Difference in Agriculture

Covering What’s Growing 1

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From the Editor

Sarah Holt

January

®

VOL. 6 • ISSUE 5

It is Fair time! Up first is the Polk County Youth Fair, January 18 – 27, held in Bartow. This event has been going on for 65 years this year and is dedicated to youth in Polk County.

The competitions held throughout the week include a variety of livestock shows, ornamental plants, table decorating, the list goes on and on!

Shortly following the conclusion of the Polk County Youth Fair is the start of the Florida State Fair, held February 9 – 20 in Tampa. The 12-day event highlights agriculture from across the state, bringing together the best of the best to vie for a variety of awards.

The first fairs gave visitors the opportunity to see other livestock, new equipment, crops and other things they may not have easy access to on a daily basis. These fairs quickly became a tradition that grew and expanded to include a multitude of things. But one thing has remained true with most fairs, agriculture. These fairs allow those far removed from the farm to reconnect with their agricultural surroundings. Take in a showmanship competition and tell the students you see that you are proud of the job they are doing and the hard work they are putting in to their project. I love that fairs showcase the hardworking folks who raise livestock and grow crops to help feed our nation. It makes me happy!

While at the Florida State Fair, visit the In The Field magazine booth in the Agriculture Hall of Fame building.

We would love to meet you!

Be blessed,

Sarah

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

Numbers 6:25

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THE RARE BREEDS

Cover Story

The People Who Make a Difference in Agriculture

The Rare Breeds The People Who Make a Difference in Agriculture Cover Art by Mona Jackson

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Advertisers Index Grub Station

Puerto Rico/Hispanic Chamber

Fishing Hot Spots Captain Woody Gore

Master Gardener Container Grown

Rocking Chair Chatter Al Berry

Fighting Crime

Polk County Agricultural Crimes Unit

Bug: A Closer Look Curve Tooth Geometer Moth

Prospects & Potential Keith Hobbs

FFA Student Highlight Christ Hagenson

Publisher/Owner Karen Berry

Sales Manager Danny Crampton

Editor-In-Chief Al Berry

Sales Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton

Editor Patsy Berry Office Manager Bob Hughens

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Did You Know?

Senior Managing Editor/Associate Publisher Sarah Holt

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.

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January 15 - February 15, 2012

Creative Director Amey Celoria Designers Mona Jackson Juan Carlos Alvarez

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

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

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’

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As we begin the New Year, we are presented with opportunities to support our youth and their programs. Many of you know of these programs and already support them with your time and money.

The last week of January brings the opportunity for supporting one of these programs. The Polk County Youth Fair begins on January 20 and provides a venue for 4 H and FFA students to showcase their projects. The show is an opportunity for our youth to demonstrate what they have learned over the past year, representing the hard work they have put forth in learning about and taking care of their respective project. From homemaking projects, to horticulture and citrus, as well as livestock production, these young people have put forth their best effort in learning valuable lessons that they can carry through life with them. Many individuals and businesses support the fair with their volunteer time and financially by providing ribbons, trophies and purchasing the students projects. This support is greatly appreciated by everyone. If you would like to know more about how you can support this program, contact the county extension office and they can give you the information on how your help could best be used.

Also, put February 11 on your calendar. This is the date of the annual Polk County Cattlemen’s Association Trade Show and Ranch Rodeo. This is our major fundraiser and a way to return thanks to our members. Members of the PCCA are given free entry. A $10 fee is charged for the general public to visit with suppliers and then enjoy local cowboys showcasing their talents as they compete in events to gain points and be awarded the top team title, and qualify for the state finals event in Kissimmee.

Charles Clark

Charles Clark Polk County Cattlemen’s Association President

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POLK COUNTY

CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION PO Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831-9005 • Apples are more effective at waking you up in the morning than coffee.

• Cats cannot move their jaw sideways.

OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS President – Charles Clark (863) 412-8349 cclark@expoco.com

• Grapes explode when you put them in the microwave.

• It is physically impossible for pigs to look up at the sky.

• Popcorn was important to the Aztec Indians as a food source.

Vice President – Dave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 cattlemanslivestock@earthlink.net Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch (863) 425-1121 jbunch@agriumretail.com

• An octopus pupil is rectangular.

• The oldest word in the English language is ‘town’.

Al Bellotto (863) 581-5515

• Room temperature is between 68 to 77 degrees.

Ray Clark, (863) 683-8196 rclark@tampabay.rr.com

• The most commonly forgotten item for travelers is their toothbrush.

• In a deck of cards the king of hearts is the only king without a moustache.

• There are only four words in the English language that end in ‘dous’: hazardous, horrendous, stupendous and tremendous.

• The safest car color is white.

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

• Coca Cola launched its third product, Sprite, in 1961.

• Black on yellow are the two colors with the strongest impact.

Ned Waters (863) 698-1597 watersn@doacs.state.fl.us

• ‘Bookkeeper’ and ‘bookkeeping’ are the only two words in the English languagewith three consecutive double letters.

J. B. Wynn (863) 581-3255 jbwynn29@gmail.com

• Venetian blinds were invented in Japan.

• In 1878 the first telephone book printed contained only 50 names.

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 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

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See page 53 for answer

Index of Advertisers

See page 53 for answer

Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers ..................19 Andy Thornal Outfitters ...........................15 Arrington Body Shop ................................53 B&L Pool Resurfacing ...............................47 Bartow Ford ................................................3 Blinds ASAP .............................................47 Brandon Farms Market .............................35 C&J Equipment Sales ...............................47 Carlton & Carlton, PA ..............................25 Cattleman’s Feed & Ranch Supply .............33 Cecil Breeding Farm ..................................56 Chemical Containers .................................23 Circle Bar J Feed & Tack ...........................17 Classifieds..................................................54 Crescent Jewelers ......................................51 Discount Metal Mart ................................41 Ellison RBM .............................................53 Fancy Farms .............................................11

Farm Credit ..............................................27 Fields Equipment Co. ................................41 Florida Farm & Ranch Supply ...................49 Florida State Fair ......................................13 Florida’s Natural Growers .........................45 Fred’s Southern Kitchen .............................45 Groover Exterminating .............................47 Grove Equipment Service ..........................39 Helena Chemical ......................................35 Hinton Farms Produce ..............................25 International Market World ......................43 KeyPlex Nutritionals ...................................2 L.I.T. Security Cages .................................45 Lake Miriam Pawn ....................................27 Lay’s Western Wear & Feed .......................49 Lewis Insulation Technologies ...................45 Lightsey Cattle Co. ...................................49 Mosaic .....................................................39

Plant City Church of God 5K Race ............23 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association ..........7 Polk Equine ..............................................53 Precision Safe & Lock ...............................51 Red Rose Inn & Suites .......................... 28-29 Rhino Linings ...........................................53 Rhizogen ..................................................43 Roadrunner Veterinary Clinic ....................33 Savich & Lee Wholesale ............................19 Seedway ....................................................51 Southeastern Septic ...................................37 Sparkman Automotive Group ......................9 Spurlow’s Outdoor Outfitters ....................53 Stephanie Humphrey Photography ............51 Stingray Chevrolet ....................................55 The Bug Man ............................................53 The Catering Company & Cafe ................17 Wishnatzki Farms .....................................21

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 February 3, 2011.

Winner will be notified by phone.

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by Cheryl Kuck

Blanca Pagan PR/HCCPC Treasurer and Manager of Hispanic Division for MidFlorida and Jose Hoyos , PR/HCCPC Vice President and owner of PolkHispano.com and an executive for Geico

esident PR/HCCPC Pr

owner of Cuban Yoanny Rodriguez keland wins popular Delights Café in La anic restaurant vote for best Hisp

It’s rare that the Grub Station’s focus is on an organization rather than a restaurant.

However when the organization holds a county wide competition for the best restaurant, that definitely catches my attention as something our readers would be interested in.

Our demographics are rapidly changing with the latest census numbers showing for the first time on record, people who over-all consider themselves Latino or Hispanic now constitute the majority of Polk County’s population with a record growth of more than 135 percent, more than doubling in size during the last ten years.

Obviously, an organization catering to the needs of that portion of the growing population and its business interests was desperately needed. To that end, the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Polk County, Inc. (PR/HCCPC) was established five years ago by Ana Rivera Ramos, President and founder.

Ramos is a dynamic entrepreneur with an extensive marketing background for international business, who was encouraged to start PR/HCCPC by her friend Teresa Martinez, owner of the Spanish Institute of Communication. “My mother told me my voice would not be heard and I would not succeed without a competitive spirit,” said Ramos.

Delivering personal encouragement and vital start-up information, Ramos meets with each prospective chamber member. Her ultimate goal is to establish a vibrant network of Hispanic, as well as, non-Hispanic members wishing to create a diverse, creative and successful county-wide business community.

There is no better way to get an entire county revved up than friendly food-oriented competition.

This year the second annual “Sabor de Polk” (Taste of Polk) restaurant competition will be held in October 2012 with the PR/HCCPC Board of Directors excited about establishing new guidelines that will narrow the field of competitors.

Although open to all restaurants including those considered non-Hispanic, the focus is on the exciting Hispanic -Latino-Spanish flavors of ethnic origin.

In 2011 there were 15 restaurants competing with all top three winners from Lakeland.

The first prize went to Yoanny Rodriguez owner of Cuban Delights Café, 1039 E. County Rd. 540A. One of his signature dishes was Italian liver with maduros beans and rice.

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The second and third place winners respectively were Elena’s Cuban Cafe, 2246 East Edgewood Drive, and Konga’s Latin Café, 6595 South Florida Ave. Awards were presented last month on December 10.

For 2012, the competition is looking forward to receiving greater representation from throughout the county. For three months before the final selection, Polk citizens are asked to try a variety of restaurants who have applied to be “Sabor” contestants. Votes will be tallied and then there will be an ultimate cook-off between those receiving the most votes. The PR/HCCPC has an excellent Web site with clips to view of the 2011 competition.

It is always exciting to see an event become so successful that it merits a second annual status. My mouth is beginning to water just thinking about it!

Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Polk County, Inc. (PR/HCCPC) •

Celebrates 5th Anniversary in 2012

•

Educational, cultural, and business networking with local Hispanic and Non-Hispanic members

•

Organization encourages start-up mom and pop businesses

•

Promotes all business, including established corporations

Status: A non-profit 501 (c) (6) organization Location: Different county businesses Meetings: Once-a-month, beginning Feb. 3, 2012 Cost: Membership fee varies depending on size of business Anniversary Special: A one-year bronze $5 membership for businesses with up to 6 employees Phone: (863) 838-2084 E-Mail: prhccpc@gmail.com Facebook: Ana Prhccpc Web site: www.prhccpc.com

Annual restaurant competition

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Mailing Address: P.O. Box 742 Kathleen, FL. 33849

January 2012

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Recipes Courtesy of The Florida Department of Agriculture

Shrimp & Fennel Salad Ingredients 1 pound cooked Florida royal red shrimp,

peeled and deveined ½ cup sour cream ¼ cup fennel, chopped fine 2 tablespoons fresh Florida dill, chopped 1 tablespoon Florida lime juice 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon Florida lime peel, finely shredded ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon hot pepper sauce Preparation Chop shrimp into bite-size pieces. Combine shrimp and remaining ingredients in a medium bowl; mix well. Chill for two hours or longer. Serve on salad greens.

Yield 4 servings

Seared Yellow-Fin Tuna Steaks with Fennel Ingredients 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2 garlic cloves, minced 4 small to medium-sized fennel bulbs, thinly sliced salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 4 6-ounce yellowfin tuna steaks, 1 inch thick 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped lemon wedges Preparation Heat two tablespoons of olive oil over low heat in a large sauté pan. Add garlic and cook until transparent. Add fennel; cover pan and cook over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes until tender. Add salt and pepper to taste. Set aside. Lightly salt and pepper the tuna steaks. Heat one tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat.

Add tuna steaks and sear for 30 to 45 seconds on each side. Place the steaks on top of the fennel in the other pan. Cover sauté pan and place over medium heat for about one minute; turn steaks and cook one minute more. Check for doneness by pressing the steaks with your finger. They should be soft to the touch and slightly pink in the middle. Do not to overcook or the tuna will be dry. Sprinkle parsley over steaks and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Yield 4 servings

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TAMPA BAY’S FISHING REPORT

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

by Captain Woody Gore by.

I can’t believe it is 2012 already. It seems like the years just fly

As people get into fishing they often think it’s some kind of sport or hobby that involves bait, rod and reel, and heading off to a nearby stretch of water where they throw in a line and wait for an unsuspecting fish to bite their hook.

Many times these people will catch fish, but probably not to the potential they might like. When done correctly, consistently catching fish is often more difficult than simply baiting a hook and tossing it in the water. When done successfully there are many things to consider. Some are the same as when you make purchases on anything else around the house. You might ask “where is a good place to go for big screen television?” In the same way all retailers don’t sell the same model televisions, certain waters hold certain types of fish. Since businesses have certain business hours in which their customers can make a purchase, the same holds true for fish. Only with fish it’s called feeding times. If you figure out and understand feeding times and fish during those times, you’re likely to catch fish.

Learning this information can take time because each species has many different variables. While many have the same or similar characteristics, they are all individual fish species, so there are going to be differences between them. Some fish feed at different times, some prefer a high tide and some an incoming tide, some prefer fish baits, some prefer shrimp, some you’ll only find in winter and others in summer and that’s only a few of the variables. When you begin figuring it out, it starts to make sense and you can experiment with different methods of fishing.

One popular method around the flats is site fishing. While it’s a great way to fish you really don’t have to sight fish to catch snook and redfish. Many anglers simply toss their bait to places where the fish are likely to be. The ideal place to find snook and redfish is along an undulating mangrove shoreline, but not just any shoreline. There are miles of shoreline surrounding Tampa Bay and for this reason you need to narrow down your choices by looking for the places where birds, and especially egrets, are feeding, especially on low tides. It’s a dead give away that when the water returns fish will follow. They’re after the same small bait fish, crabs and sand worms that the reds and snook are eating. If there aren’t any birds around, fish around overhanging branches or where trees have fallen into the water.

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The time of year also determines where to fish. Snook follow a well-defined pattern. During the coldest months of the year, usually January and February, most snook move up the tidal rivers, often ending up in small fresh water creeks. In March, as the water begins to warm, snook move towards the coast. During this time you can find them inside, as locals call the inland bays and creeks or outside, which refers to the tidal channels and bays closer to the Gulf of Mexico.

By May and continuing through October, snook fishing is strictly outside. The fish begin to spawn in May and continue into the summer. They will prepare to spawn in the passes and move just offshore to release their eggs.

After October, the fish will remain outside as along as it is warm and the bait fish are around. When the first few cold fronts move through and the bait moves out, the snook head inland.

The best time of year for redfish is from August through November. This is when you find the big schools of fish on the outside flats and in the passes. At other times of the year, you may encounter reds just about anywhere in the bay area, usually swimming alone or in pairs with plenty of small reds in creeks and channels. Redfish don’t seem to be too picky about what they eat. Live or dead baitfish or shrimp, gold or silver spoons, or jigs are the most popular choices. Jigs are very popular because of their versatility.

Let’s Go Catching!

Tampa Bay Fishing Report

Snook: Remember they go deep seeking warmer water. Top baits include live greenbacks, shrimp, small pinfish and deadsticking cut baits. Artificial lures do well during the winter but plan on fishing deeper. Topwater lures, although loads of fun, seem to work better when surface water temperatures are higher.

Good choices include subsurface sinking or suspending lures.

Soft plastics using at least a 1/8 oz jighead always produce during the winter. If live bait is your choice shrimp always entices a bite, especially if they are hungry.

Redfish: Normally continue being active because the cooler water doesn’t affect them like it does Snook. Grass flats with broken bottom, submerged oyster bars and mangrove shorelines

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normally hold hungry Redfish. Artificials still work during the winter and for us diehard surface anglers they can’t resist a surface walking topwater lure. Greenbacks (if you can find them), shrimp, dollar size pins, cut bait and patience do the trick.

Spotted Sea Trout: Action should go on the upswing with cooler water temperatures pushing them inshore. Fish strong tides around deepwater flats. They eat shrimp, pinfish, and greenbacks. Deeper flats, good moving water, and a popping float prove deadly in catching nice Trout. Especially when rigged with shrimp, either live or artificial. Soft plastics on a jighead always produce when bounced off the bottom. Remember, the bite always comes as the baits begin to fall, so don’t be surprised to have a fish on just after the lure hits the water.

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Cobia: Don’t be surprised to see one on the back of large Rays and Manatees. As the waters cool you should see them around or migrating toward the hot water discharges of power plants. But don’t think you’re going to be alone in these areas… there will be plenty of boats. Large shrimp on a ¼ oz. jighead normally does the trick. But small or chunk crab also works.

Sharks also frequent the warm water discharges this time of year so don’t be surprise when you catch one while targeting Cobia.

Sheepshead will show up everywhere during the winter months. Try fishing for these great fighters around markers, bridge fenders, docks, seawalls, rock piles, oyster bars or practically any type structure. Shrimp and fiddler crabs always produce, but green mussels and oysters also work.

“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.

Single or Multi-boat Group Charters are all the same.

With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament.

Just tell him what you need and it’s done.

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

Container Debra Howell: Grown The Master Gardener

One

of the most appealing and eye-popping landscapes I’ve ever seen capitalized on the use of container-grown plants. I don’t mean a pot here and there to highlight an entryway or outline a path. I’m talking about a property somewhere in the lush environs of the Pacific northwest of which the entire front yard consists of containers filled with colorful plants. Look up “eye-candy” in the dictionary, and this yard appears there.

For my money, container grown is one of the most versatile forms of gardening. This method is not only appropriate for shrubs, landscape plants and patio palms, but is great also for your veggies, fruits and herbs. By planting in some sort of container, you avoid soil-borne pathogens, and may be able to control such issues as water and fertilizer needs more handily.

Presently, I have an area in my front yard where the border and landscape plants look overgrown and shabby. It is right by the street and looms large for all passersby to see.

Now if these plants were in containers, I’d trundle out my mom’s yard cart (the one I cracked while moving a big limestone rock but neglected to tell her about) and remove those plants to a less conspicuous location to recuperate.

One thing which I’ve learned from repotting my large Jade plant and a precious Horsetail rush, which I bought some years ago at Gainesville’s Kanapaha Gardens, is that the pot you’re planning to buy for the repotting job isn’t big

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enough for the plant you’re going to pot, so buy the next size larger.

Your options for items to use as containers are endless and only limited by your imagination. You may, of course, trot to your nearest big-box store and take in their impressive arrays of clay pots, terra cotta pots (my favorite), plastic and metal pots. Or, you can go to some weekend yard sales and try your luck. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

I’ve even seen such items as old tires and a beautiful hay rack planted with sweet potato vines. In our Master Gardener training class, we learned how to make our own hypertufa containers. These pots are porous and breathable, and consist of a mix of concrete, perlite, sand and water shaped according to your whims, and allowed to cure before use. I even pressed hypertufa into service to fill a gaping hole left by the sudden departure of a co-dominant oak tree trunk.

It was used to patch the resulting hole with a breathable, porous material, which allowed the rain to run off and not

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puddle in the tree, thereby causing more rot to ensue.

Truthfully, you needn’t spend lots of money, you just need a container which will hold potting mix and which has drain holes to prevent the soil from souring and overwatering. There are two main problems with containerized plants: underwatering and overwatering. My Farrier’s family has been experimenting lately with growing vegetable in old tubs formerly used for cattle molasses. What a great way to reuse and recycle and what a profound message to teach impressionable children!

It is prudent to tell you that which kind of container you use directly affects the watering schedule of your plants. Water loss through a porous clay pot is about three times the water loss through a plastic pot.

Also, a container with holes in the bottom makes watering easier than with a pot with no bored holes.

We tell potential gardeners that you don’t even need a yard to have a butterfly garden. A container garden on the balcony of your towers apartment or on the patio in your manufactured home community will work well in a sunny location. Two years ago, Master Gardener Pat Farris and I were asked to give a gardening program at a location, which lacked a DVD capability or projection equipment. Necessity being the mother of invention, we were compelled to come up with Plan “B”. In this case, Plan “B” became a container grown butterfly garden.

We tossed a tarp on the floor and created a beautiful garden right before the eyes of our audience using a large, round plastic container, potting mix, three butterfly-approved nectar plants and two larval source plants. This pot has lasted for a long time (about a year) with very little care from me. FYI: Last year we were gifted with projector, laptop and projection screen by the Master Gardener organization, so we no longer have the aforementioned issue.

We are now going to make a virtual container garden using a 20 inch galvanized tub, a circle of window screen, gravel, good potting soil, your choice of container plants and mulch. If it’s a used container, clean it out first to prevent contamination. Overturn your container and make several

holes in the bottom with a large nail and hammer. Place the circle of screen in the bottom of the tub to keep the drainholes open. Cover with gravel and fill with potting mix to a couple inches from the rim. Plant tall flowers, like Snapdragons, first. They should be planted in the middle for a round pot, in the back for a rectangular one. Install these in a triangle about two to three inches apart. Then place trailing plants like Petunias or Verbena in a circle around the center plants. Alternate Pansies and Ornamental Kale at equal points around the edge of the tub. Tamp down the soil. Water the tub well. You may wish to use some type of mulch around the plants to retain water and for curb appeal.

If using a metal tub, you will want to elevate it and use a saucer underneath to prevent rust stains on your patio. Container plants dry out more rapidly than plants grown in the ground. Water with a “wand” type nozzle, which emits a more consistent, less intrusive stream.

As much as I love a windowbox, I cannot advocate them because of the holes I must bore into the side of my wood frame house to attach one.

Termites are just waiting for such an opportunity and appreciate the shelter and moisture afforded by a windowbox. If you do opt for a windowbox, here are some plants you might try: Periwinkles, Verbenas, Geraniums, Zinnias, Marigolds and trailing purple Lantanas.

You’ll want a good liquid fertilizer, applied according to package directions. I haven’t experimented with the plant fertilizer spikes, so I don’t know how effective they are.

Other options are hanging baskets; or perhaps an “espalier”, which could be a fruit tree in a container whose limbs are trained onto a trellis system. Or how about growing your own Christmas tree which you can keep year after year? And don’t forget your fragrant kitchen herbs grown in clay pots on a sunny windowsill or patio.

Our esteemed Master Gardener Advisor Dr. David Shibles is a big advocate of vegetable container gardening, but that’s a whole other article.

In memory of Master Gardener Debbie Falton, who graduated this Earth to become a Master Gardener in the perfect celestial garden.

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 18 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

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Last month, during the Christmas holiday, I had some time to spend with our great grandkids. What a great time watching them rip through the Christmas wrappings to get to their toys. I reflected on my early years as a child growing up in Plant City. For some reason, just as if it was yesterday, I remembered my first experience of telling a lie.

When I was very young, dad worked the midnight shift with the Plant City Police Department. At age four I was almost, but not quite, house broken. I can remember having an accident during the night and was too embarrassed to own up to it, so I concocted a story I thought my dad would swallow hook, line and sinker.

Dad came home about 7:30 that morning and I stood there in front of him with only my pajama top on. He said, “Son, where are your pajama bottoms?”

“Dad,” I said, “You won’t believe it, but last night a burglar broke in the house and tinkled in my bed. Not only that, he tinkled on my pajama bottoms too. See, there they are at the foot of my bed.”

He looked me square in eyes almost ready to burst out laughing, but retained his com-

20 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

posure to teach me a lesson about fibbing. “Son, you know what I have told you about telling stories, don’t you? Look at me and tell me the truth.” I knew a whipping was coming on. I told the truth. I told him I was embarrassed and made up the story.

Instead of tanning my hide he said I had to wash the sheets on the bed and my pajamas, after I took a bath in the tub.

Mama showed me how to set up the washboard and put soap and water in the tub. As best I can remember she kept her hand over her mouth. I know it was to keep her from laughing at me.

The next crazy thing I did as a kid was to stick a button up my nose. Why in the world would I do that? Who knows! We couldn’t get it out at home so dad took me up to Dr. Alsobrook’s office over White’s Central Pharmacy.

He took some small needle nose pliers and pulled it out. Next he stuck a light in each ear, and said, “Albert, I think we need to wash his ears out.” Then he took some sort of solution and squirted it in each ear, and Shazzam! I could hear again.

I’ll bet raising me was like nailing Jell-o to a tree. I seemed to get into all sorts of trouble every week. Nothing serious, just crazy things like riding my bike on the National Youth Administration building sidewalk (now the Roy & Helen Parke Exhibit building at the Strawberry Festival) with my friend Robert Carter.

We had a contest to see who could ride at top speed

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During my youth, living on the west side of Plant City, I remember Robert Carter had a broken leg and I was pulling him around in his Radio Flyer wagon. Right in front of the American Legion Building across from the National Guard Armory stood two World War II cannon shells at the sidewalk entrance. One of them was loose and I rolled it out in the dirt road. Robert eased out of the wagon and we dug a hole and buried it right there in the middle of the road. A few years later they paved the road. I guess it’s still there under the asphalt.

As kids we do and say a lot of crazy things. Most likely a lot of schoolteachers could write a book. A Sunday school teacher said her kids were really into her Bible teaching but somehow would get things confused and turned around. She asked them what the first book of the Bible was, and one small fry stood up and said, “The first book of the Bible is Guinessis and this was where Adam and Eve were created from an apple.”

Other statements were; Moses led the Hebrew slaves to the Red Sea, where they made unleavened bread which is bread with no ingredients. Lot’s wife was a pillar of salt by day and a ball of fire by night. One of the opossums was St.

21 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

Matthew. The epistles were the wives of the apostles. A Christian should have only one wife, which is called monotony. Joshua led the Hebrews in the battle of Geritol. The people who followed Jesus

were called the 12 decibels. And the best one yet she said came from a four year old little red headed freckle face boy. He said, “Jesus was born because Mary had an immaculate contraption.”

As adults we learn truths about life as well. For instance, middle age is when you choose your cereal for the fiber, not the toy. Laughing helps.

It’s like jogging on the inside. The mind not only wanders, sometimes it leaves completely. The more you complain the longer God lets you live. Car sickness is the feeling you get when the monthly car payment is due. And, if you eat a live toad first thing in he morning, nothing worse can happen to you the rest of the day.

In closing there’s the story of the couple that was attending a marriage seminar dealing with communication. Fred and Gina listened to the speaker closely. He said, “It is essential that husbands and wives know each other’s likes and dislikes” He turned to Fred and said, “Can you name your wife’s favorite flower?” Fred looked at his wife, smiled, and said, “That’s easy, it’s Pillsbury!”

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Department of Labor Unveils Employer’s Handbook for Participation in the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Program Other Information Also Available to Help Applicants

by Jim Frankowiak photos courtesy of Congressman Gus Bilirakis’ Office The U.S. Department (Department) of Labor recently introduced the “Employer Guide to Participation in the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Program,” a handbook for employers to use when hiring foreign workers on a temporary basis to perform agricultural work when there are not sufficient U.S. workers available. The guide is not intended to be a substitute for reading and complying with the Department’s regulation. Additional information on the H-2A Program, such as filing tips and frequently asked questions, can be found at www.foreignlaborcert. doleta.gov/h-2a.cfm.

The H-2A Program is authorized under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Before the Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCI) can approve a visa petition for H-2A workers, the employer must first receive a temporary labor certification from the Department. The Department’s Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) is responsible for receiving and processing employer-filed H-2A applications, and ensuring as a condition of certification that qualified U.S. workers are not available for the job and the employment of temporary foreign workers will not adversely affect the wages and workings conditions of U.S. workers similarly employed.

Applications from an H-2A temporary labor certification may be submitted by a U.S. employer or an association of agricultural producers who have full-time work that needs to be performed on a temporary or seasonal basis. The general guidelines below should help to clarify participation: • The applicant must be an employer with a place of business physically located in the U.S., possess a valid Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN); and have the ability to hire, pay, fire, supervise or otherwise control the work of the workers to be employed under the program, • The work to be performed must consist of agricultural labor or services, such as the planting, raising, cultivating, harvesting or production of any agricultural or horticultural commodity, • The work must be full-time, at least 35 or more hours per week, and

22 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

• The need for the work must be seasonal or temporary in nature and tied to a certain time of the year by a recurring event or pattern, such as annual growing cycle, normally lasting 10 months or less.

The process of obtaining a temporary labor certification under the H-2A Program involves four basic steps: 1.

File a Job Order with the State Workforce Agency (SWA).

This must be done in the state where the actual work will be performed. The SWA will review the job order; work with the applicant on any needed corrections and initiate recruitment of U.S. workers.

It is suggested that this filing take place 75-60 calendar days before the state date of work.

2. File an H-2A application with the Chicago National Processing Center (NPC). The Chicago NPC will review your application, notify you of any deficiencies and provide you with additional instructions for completing the process. This filing should take place no less than 45 calendar days before the work start date.

3. Conducting Recruitment for U.S. Workers. This involves recruitment efforts you must conduct on your own, including where and when to advertise, what content the advertisements must contain and how to prepare your recruitment report. This advertising is to begin on the date you receive the Notice of Acceptance from the Chicago NPC until you complete all of the required recruitment steps.

4. Completing the Temporary Labor Certification Process. This final step identifies the additional documents the applicant must submit to the Chicago NPC in order to receive a final determination and – should labor certification be granted – moving on to the USCIS. The timing for this final step is no less than 30 calendar days before the start date of work.

The complete H-2A handbook can be accessed at and downloaded from http://www. foreignlaborcert.doleta.gov/pdf/H-2A Employer Handbook.pdf.

Our thanks to Congressman Gus Bilirakis and his Plant City Director of Outreach Clint Shouppe for providing us with this important and timely information.

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January 2012

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Polk County Agricultural Crimes Unit

by Sheriff Grady Judd for In The Field Magazine Polk County is the fourth largest county in Florida with 2,010.2 total square miles, 1,874.9 square miles of which is land area, and that’s plenty of room for cows.

According to the Polk County Cattleman’s Association, Florida is the “third largest beef-producing state east of the Mississippi” and has over 1.1 million head of beef cattle. Polk County ranks as one of the top counties for beef cattle production.

Since January 2011, Polk County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Crimes Unit responded to 421 cattle related calls for service, and each one was different.

Ag deputies rely on their partnerships within the cattle rancher’s community to solve cattle related crimes. “Working with the Cattleman’s Association and small hobby ranchers has made a big difference for us,” said Sergeant Howard Martin. “The partnerships we’ve created enable deputies to work one-on-one with cattle ranchers providing proactive law enforcement services.”

One such program is the PCSO Ag Watch program. After a number of high profile cases, which had a direct impact on the agriculture industry, the Sheriff’s Office recognized the need to allow deputies immediate access to landowner information to enforce a “zero tolerance” stance for crimes committed against agriculture. The program was developed as a means to identify ownership of agriculture properties in Polk County. The program consists of a “No Trespassing By Order of the Sheriff” sign listing the property/business owner’s name and a code number. The code number displayed provides deputies on patrol instant access to owner information and agent agreements. Sales of the “Agriculture Watch” signs benefit the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post 900 and the program has been embraced by the Florida Sheriff’s Association as a model program on a statewide basis. (For more information on the Ag Watch program, please call 863.534.7205.)

Reaching out to the community for assistance is essential to solving crimes. Ag deputies are currently working two cattle related investigations and are asking for the public’s help.

The first incident occurred sometime between Wednesday, November 16, 2011, and Thursday, November 17, 2011. The incident took place on a 200 acre pasture located off of Moore Road in Polk City. The property expands to Old Polk City Road, Cypress Trails, and Bryant Road. Unknown persons shot a cow multiple

24 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

times at close range with a 9mm handgun. The animal died as a result of the wounds. There was a pair of men’s work gloves found nearby.

The second incident occurred sometime between 12:00 pm, on Sunday, December 11, 2011, and 10:00 am, on Monday, December 12, 2011, approximately 12 Hereford cows were removed from a pasture on the corner of Berkley Road (just north of Mt. Olive on the east side), in Auburndale.

The suspect(s) entered the pasture by cutting a link from the chain and luring the cows to the pens with feed. All of the cows were heifers and small calves, most are red and white. One was described as being a dark brindle color and having large horns with the tips cut. Another cow was blonde with a white face and “banana” style horns. None of the cows have any marks, brands, or tags.

Anyone with information about either of these investigations is urged to contact the PCSO Agriculture Unit at 863-534-7205, or 863-298-6200.

UPDATE: OPERATION BOVINE RECOVERY On Tuesday, December 6, 2011, in a rural area south of Bartow in Polk County, Florida, several local, state, and federal agencies teamed up during a FEMA-sponsored exercise named “Operation Bovine Recovery.” In last month’s edition, we told you the scenario: two suspects unleash dangerous chemicals near a cow pasture, committing an act of agro-terrorism.

Now that the exercise is complete, here are the lessons we learned: never treat a traffic stop as “just a traffic stop” - there can always be something more to the story; call on your local law enforcement and emergency response partners when needed; conduct thorough interviews of each suspect you encounter, and get to the bottom of the story as quickly as possible; reach out to state and federal agencies at the first sign of a terrorist act.

Overall the exercise was a great success, and during the afteraction review Polk County received an “A” from FEMA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for demonstrating our rapid response to a terrorist act.

As always, I am proud of the hard-working men and women who work for the PCSO!

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January 2012

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by Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicine, B.S. Nutrition Science Fennel is a crisp, slightly sweet vegetable with hints of anise and licorice. As a member of the Umbellifereae family, fennel is related to celery, parsley, coriander, and dill. Fennel is composed of a white or light green bulb attached to stalks, which are topped with light, fern-like dark green leaves. The entire vegetable is edible, including the bulb, stalks, leaves, and seeds. Fennel is at its peak season during the winter months.

Also called sweet anise or finocchio, fennel is native to the Mediterranean area. In the U.S. fennel is produced in California, Arizona, and Florida. According to the University of Florida Extension Office, this annual plant can be grown successfully in gardens and fields throughout the state.

Nutritional Profile

Fennel is an excellent source of vitamin C and a very good source of dietary fiber, potassium, manganese, folate, and molybdenum. Fennel is also a good source of phosphorus, calcium, iron, magnesium, copper and niacin (vitamin B3).

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one cup of raw, chopped fennel (87 g) contains 27 calories, 1.1 g protein, 0.2 g fat, 6.3 g carbohydrate, and 2.7 g of dietary fiber.

It also provides 17% of the Daily Recommended Value (%DV) for vitamin C, 11% for dietary fiber, 10% for potassium, 8.5% for manganese, 6% for folate, and large amounts of powerful antioxidants.

Health Benefits

Fennel is bursting with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other health-promoting compounds. Phytonutrients are organic components of plants (fruits, vegetables, legumes) that promote health and include carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenols. Fennel contains a large amount of different flavanoids, which may help to decrease inflammation and the risk of cancer.

Vitamin C

Fennel bulb is an excellent source of vitamin C, which acts as a potent antioxidant in the body, neutralizing harmful free radicals and preventing its damaging effects in cells. As a result, vitamin C has been associated with reduced severity of inflammatory conditions, such as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Several large scientific studies have shown that a high consumption of vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes including heart disease, stroke and cancer.

Potassium

Fennel is a good source of potassium, a mineral which pro-

26 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

Fennel motes healthy heart functioning and protects against high blood pressure. Potassium helps regulate fluids and mineral balance, aids in muscle contraction, and helps transmit nerve impulses.

Plant foods, such as fennel, are a very rich source of potassium.

Fiber

One cup of fennel contains 10.8 percent of your daily dietary fiber needs. Fiber has been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels and prevent colon cancer. This nutrient is also very well known for its role in digestion and in the prevention of constipation.

Additionally the fiber in fennel can help with weight loss by offering satiety with very few calories. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, a diet high in fiber may decrease the risk of several types of cancer including colon, rectum, breast, and pancreas.

How to Select and Store

Fresh fennel is at its peak season during the cool weather months. Look for fennel bulbs that are white or pale green in color with green stalks and leaves. Avoid any that are flowering or are split or discolored. Choose one that feels firm and solid to the touch and smells fragrantly of licorice or anise.

Store fennel loosely in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to three to five days. Store dried fennel seeds in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How to Enjoy

The entire fennel is edible and has many possible uses. The bulb can be sliced and added to salads or cooked vegetable dishes. The leaves can be used as a seasoning, garnish, or vegetable.

The stalks can be used for soups and stews.

A Few Quick Serving Ideas: • Slice fennel and combine with lettuce and melon for a quick salad • Stir-fry chopped fennel with broccoli and snow peas.

• Braise fennel and serve as a side dish.

• Use thinly sliced fennel to top sandwiches or salads.

• Sautee fennel with onions and serve as a side dish to fish.

• Toss diced fennel into a veggie soup.

Enjoy this favorite Mediterranean vegetable fresh from Florida today. With its unique flavor and crisp texture, fennel can be used in any raw or cooked dish.

Selected References

http://en.wikipedia.org/ http://www.whfoods.com

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JANUARY 28 BEAUTIFUL BOBBY BLACKMON & THE B3 BLUES BAND

Bobby Blackmon's career began in a small town not far from the Dallas, Texas area. His Texas blues influence is heard loud ‘n’ proud in his soulful guitar playing. He's worked with the likes of Barbara Lynn, Jimmy Reed, ZZ Hill, Johnny Taylor, Lavelle White and Lou Rawls.

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JANUARY 28 THE VAN DELLS WITH THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS

Back by popular demand. This trio is a fireball of entertainment and not to be missed! The Las Vegas Sounds also perform. Dinner served in a supper-club atmosphere in the Red Rose Ballroom.

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Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

FEBRUARY 4 & 17 JOHNNY ALSTON’S - MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

JANUARY 14 THE CONTOURS

Performing their hits, including: Do You Love Me, in the Red Rose Ballroom. Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock ‘n Roll Review also performs. Call for our tiered pricing for this fabulous dinner show!

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FEBRUARY 10 WALT MADDOX - TRIBUTE TO NAT KING COLE

Walt Maddox performs all of Nat's greatest hits. He started out in the early '60s with The Marcels. His tribute to Nat has performed to sold out crowds nationwide.

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FEBRUARY 11 THE FOUR PREPS - A VALENTINE EVENT

Bring your special someone for a romantic dinner and show. The chart topping group will be performing their hits. The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 18 TROY “SATCHMO” ANDERSON - TRIBUTE TO LOUIS ARMSTRONG

Troy Anderson on trumpet as “Satchmo,” a MARCH 9 & 17 tribute to Louis Armstrong. Plus, a 3 hour set ALPH LLOCCO from The Wonderful World Band with the same instrumentation as Armstrong's bands.

ECOND IND Destiny opens and closes.

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Donʼt forget Valentine’s Day. Enjoy our special Valentine Show on February 11th

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Destiny also performs.

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THE FABULOUS HUBCAPS

Come and hear one of the nation’s most sought after oldies’ bands. Their music spans generations of some of the top hits of our time. The Las Vegas Sounds also perform in the Red Rose Ballroom. Dinner served in a supperclub atmosphere.

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BOB RYMAN “THE FIDDLER” APRIL 14

THE JARMELS APRIL 28

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MRS. EVELYN MADONIA - OWNER

The People Who Make A Difference in Agriculture

W

e are well in to our fifth year of Covering What is Growing in Polk County. Our first issue hit the streets in September 2006, two years after the inception of the Hillsborough County edition of In The Field magazine.

We have enjoyed meeting those involved in the different aspects of agriculture across the county and thought you may enjoy revisiting some of our past features.

The information contained in this article is taken from the features as they were written.

30 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

November 2006 Our November 2006 issue featured the Lightsey family. For 12 generations the name has been associated with cattle ranching. Owned and operated by brothers Layne and Cary, Lightsey Cattle Company, based in Lake Wales, is made up of four separate ranches, Tiger Lake Ranch and West Lake Wales Ranch in Polk County, the XL Ranch in Highlands County and Brahma Island in Osceola County.

For decades the family relied primarily on ranching to pay the bills. But when Cary and Layne’s father, Doyle Lightsey, died in 1973, estate taxes led them to realize it was time to diversify. So working closely with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Lightseys helped develop criteria for guided hunting that is now the standard for Florida hunting preserves.

January 2012

In addition to numerous other ventures, when the Audubon Society and Sierra Club asked to observe the ranch’s pristine natural landscapes and abundant wildlife, the family began giving ecological tours of the property. “Our family has always had a philosophy of leaving at least 40 percent of our land native,” said Cary Lightsey.

“Florida has a very sensitive ecosystem.

And I’m afraid if we go in there and start rearranging God’s creation it might come back to bite you some day.”

The jewel of the Lightseys’ land is Brahma Island located in Lake Kissimee. The island is recognized by a number of environmental groups as a haven for wildlife and natural beauty.

“We’re really just landlords of this land if you really think about it,” said Cary.

“I feel that we have the opportunity to

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protect this land and leave it as God intended it. I feel like its our job to protect it for the people of Florida. I feel like I’m probably the luckiest man I know. I get to work with my kids and grandkids every day and I get to see God’s creation out here. It’s just an unbelievable lifestyle.”

magnitude is still a new industry in Florida. “The first growers in the seventies are the real pioneers,” he said. He acknowledges that there are still many challenges before today’s medium and large-scale growers such as perfecting varieties and combating disease. However, with the heart of a farmer devoted to family and a special way of life, Jerry concludes, “Finding the right people to go along side of us is more important than the speed in which this operation grows. But, as long as there is a market for our produce, we will find a way to provide healthy, quality berries.”

In addition to the auction, the Tomkow brothers have a cow-calf operation of some 1,200 head spread over Hillsborough, Pasco Polk and Sumter counties. They also offer appraisals for “anything in the cattle industry.”

May 2007 In May 2007, we highlighted Mixon Family Farm in Haines City. Jerry Mixon and his brothers, Keith and Greg are partners in the business their father, Gerald, first envisioned 15 years ago. The farm, established in 1993, had seven of their 340 acres cultivated to grow high-density blueberries.

From the support of other growers and from their own desire for better representation, they established SunnyRidge Farm as a national and international marketer of blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries.

Jerry Mixon sees both Mixon Family Farm and SunnyRidge Farm as a work in progress. “We must continually experiment with new varieties, new growing techniques, and be open to change in order to remain competitive,” he said.

Each year several acres are set aside for new berry varieties and he works closely with the University of Florida extension program in documenting the success of the young plants. Jerry also points out that growing and marketing blueberries to this

Working hard to keep an agricultural tradition that began nearly six decades ago, that’s the work of Dave and Mike Tomkow at Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction in Lakeland.

May 2008 The May 2008 issue visited the Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction. Brothers Dave and Mike Tomkow are working hard to continue an agribusiness venture that traces its roots to 1951 when what is known today as Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Market, Inc. began in Lakeland.

“Our sellers generally come from a 40 to 50 mile radius,” said Dave. “Our buyers represent a range of purchasers from throughout the southeast, Texas and elsewhere. Some of our sales stay in the area, while others are shipped out of state.”

The Tomkow family became associated with the auction in the early 1980s when Dave and Mike’s father, who is now deceased, and a friend purchased the operation. When Dave and Mike’s father passed away, the brothers and their mother, Marcia, bought out their father’s partner.

The auction handles a range of cattle from young calves to mature animals. “Our livestock may be purchased for replacement, grazing operations, conditioning, feedlots and slaughter,” said Dave.

To keep the auction attractive to both buyers and sellers, the Tomkow’s support a range of ag related activities. “We support youth activities like steer shows and we

31 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

host field days at the auction where the agriculture community can learn of new products and services, particularly those related to cattle.”

January 2012

February 2009 Our February 2009 issue featured Al Bellotto and his passion for ranching. For nearly a year, the determined 11-year-old Al Bellotto saved his weekly pay of fifty cents to purchase his first calf. It took quite a while to accumulate enough, especially for a kid who had already secured a loan from his uncle to buy chickens and was ready to move on to bigger and better things. From one calf to a small herd when he graduated from high school, to a 4,800acre ranch, Al Bellotto has always done things bigger and better.

“I knew what I wanted in life. That was to be outdoors and work with cows,” Bellotto said. “That’s what I’ve done and it has been a blessing from God to have happened to be successful at it.”

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As a teenager he awoke at 4:30, completed his chores at home, went to school, football practice and, if he couldn't catch a ride, walked from Haines City to Dundee Citrus Growers to work until midnight. An outstanding fullback, Al played for Haines City High and was then recruited by the U.S. Navy.

World War II got in the way and after that the Navy game him 24 hours to decide if he wanted to continue where he left off on the football team or finish his tour and go home. “I said, just let me go home to the peace and quite and my cows,” he said.

Al married Betty Johnson who quickly discovered the depth of his cowboy ways when they had to come home early from their honeymoon because his horse was missing.

The years Al spent living his dream of being a cowboy have been accented with a variety of relationships he created with agriculture organizations. Participating in these organizations helps to fulfill the need Al feels to help others.

32 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2010 In July of 2010, we brought you a story on Sheriff Grady Judd. Elected for the first time in 2004 and re-elected in 2009 by 99 percent of those who cast votes, Sheriff Judd is a very high profile crime fighter.

He’s a man’s man who loves his job and strongly believes he has been blessed many times over, both personally and professionally.

their people. This is how I was raised and why I relate to and respect these fine people. When I need to hear it straight about some matter or issue, I visit with my cattlemen and farmer friends in the county, they look me in the eye and tell what the truth is.”

Sheriff Judd heads a full service law enforcement agency with more than 1,570 full-time employees, including 623 sworn, 382 certified and 573 civilian, 256 parttime and 2,500 volunteer members.

The relationship and appreciation for the people of agriculture have had an impact on the way Sheriff Judd approaches the need to protect and to serve. “I know of no other business that at the end of the day leaves nearly all of what they own out in the field with the hope that when they return the next day everything will have been as it was left,” said Sheriff Judd.

Having been born and raised in what Sheriff Judd calls the “real south,” he has a special place in his heart for cattlemen, ranchers and anyone associated with agriculture. The men and women who work in agriculture comprise the moral and economic fibers that make this country great,” said Sheriff Judd. These are honest, Godfearing Christians who work hard, raise their children by setting a strong example of respect and honesty for the land and

To the future, Sheriff Judd hopes the people of Polk County will keep him in office for many years to come. “I have read the U.S. Constitution and the Bible and see no mention at all of retirement. In fact, I have established my own deferred retirement or DROP program. I want to work until I drop dead- but I hope that isn’t for a very long time. And I hope that I am remembered for always giving my best at whatever I did.”

January 2012

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January 2012

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Florida ranks tenth in the nation in cattle and was the first state to begin raisig them.

In addition, five out of ten of the largest cow/calf operations are found here. Polk County is ranked third in the state in cattle inventory with “nearly 400,000 acres in pasture farm land, which comprises 31 percent of Polk County’s total land area.”

Bridget says she’s always been interested in agriculture. “Dad was in it a little bit. Dad’s grandfather had a farm. When I was in high school I had two horses and I had to pay for their feed and housing. I went to UF to go to vet school but then I got interested in the beef industry and took it from there,” she explained.

The Polk County Extension Services, where Bridget works, “provides educational programs to assist producers in the production of an economically efficient and marketable livestock product.”

August 2011 In the August 2011 issue, our feature article introduced you to Bridget Carlisle, Extension Agent with the Polk County Cooperative Extension Service.

34 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

Bridget admits that ranchers who have spent their lives raising cattle are significantly more knowledgeable about the industry given the fact that 99 percent of the ranchers in the US are family owned and as she said, “Most of the people that I work with have forgotten more than I’ll ever know about ag.

When I visit a producer, my hope is to help them identify problems, research solutions

January 2012

and, hopefully, provide answers. I do the foot work for them.”

Though Bridget and the ranchers who raise them are supremely fond of cattle, still others are concerned about the impact of these cow/calf operations. In fact, Polk County began looking at new livestock rules due to concerns about odor, dust, noise, neglect flies, the spread of disease and potential groundwater pollution. So Bridget did her research on the most pressing concern, groundwater pollution and presented her findings.

Given the information contained in these case studies, Bridget hopefully quelled some of the concerns about livestock’s contribution to possible ground water pollution.

These presentations are a huge part of Bridget’s job and thusly have the potential to impact consumer concerns as well as legal actions. •

“The men and women who work in agriculture comprise the moral and economic fibers that make this country great.”

– Sheriff Grady Judd

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35 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

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Florida Citrus Commission Names Douglas Ackerman to Lead Citrus Industry Submitted by the Florida Department of Citrus

The Florida Citrus Commission (FCC) selected Douglas R. Ackerman as the new Executive Director for the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) following a four-month search for an individual with an advanced understanding of marketing who will bring a strong set of leadership skills and diversity of thought to the citrus industry.

“Douglas Ackerman understands the importance of citrus to our counties and state,” said Florida Citrus Commission Chairman Marty McKenna.

“He has a tremendous amount of desire and determination to join the team.”

“The citrus industry requires leadership to get everyone together when we need to and I think he will connect well with growers.”

Ackerman, of Bartow, has 17 years of experience in retail, consumer packaged goods, and integrated marketing communications. Most recently, he served as Category Marketing Manager at Publix Super Markets for nearly seven years. He holds a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Tampa and a bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas.

36 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

An Executive Search Committee comprised of six commissioners selected Ackerman after interviewing three candidates from a pool of 114 applicants. The FCC voted to hire Ackerman at their Dec. 21 meeting.

“I’m really looking forward to working with all the growers, processors and staff at the Florida Department of Citrus in helping to promote Florida citrus,” Ackerman stated.

Ackerman will begin his new position in January.

The Florida Department of Citrus is an executive agency of Florida government charged with the marketing, research and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. Its activities are funded by a tax paid by growers on each box of citrus that moves through commercial channels.

The industry employs nearly 76,000 people, provides an annual economic impact close to $9 billion to the state, and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues that help support Florida’s schools, roads and health care services. For more information about the Florida Department of Citrus, please visit www.FDOCGrower.com.

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January 2012

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USDA’s 2011-12 Florida Orange Crop Estimate Increases The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) raised its orange crop forecast for the 2011-2012 season two percent, estimating Florida will now produce 150 million boxes. The USDA’s initial October estimate pegged the orange crop at 147 million boxes.

“So far, this season has progressed as we expected,” said Michael W. Sparks, executive VP/ CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual. “This increase wasn’t altogether unexpected and we are still comfortable with the USDA’s production estimates and the size of the crop.”

“Grower returns are firming up and at the current levels they are helping offset the high production costs we are experiencing due to pest and disease.”

Visit www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/Florida/Publications/Citrus/cpfp.htm for the complete USDA estimate. The USDA makes its initial forecast in October and then revises it monthly until the end of the season in July.

The increase came due to a 2 million box increase in the Valencia crop from 73 million to 75 million. Early and mid-season varieties jumped one million to 75 million. For Florida specialty fruit, the USDA predicts 1.1 million boxes of tangelos and 4.5 million boxes of tangerines, down from 4.7 million in October.

The yield for from concentrate orange juice (FCOJ) held steady at 1.60 gallons per 90-pound box.

The USDA predicts Florida will harvest 19.4 million boxes of grapefruit in ’11-‘12, down from the 20.1 million boxes estimated in October.

The Florida citrus industry creates a $9 billion annual economic impact, employing nearly 76,000 people, and covering about 550,000 acres. Founded in 1948 and currently representing nearly 8,000 grower members, Florida Citrus Mutual is the state’s largest citrus grower organization. For more information, visit www.flcitrusmutual.com.

38 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

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January 2012

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A Closer Look: Curve-Tooth Geometer Moth (Eutrapela clemataria)

A Closer Look:

Curve-Tooth Geometer Moth (Eutrapela clemataria)

By Sean Green This month marks a symbolic new beginning for most, if not all of us. It’s a time that we accept the accumulation of the past and although we remember it, this is the time of year we celebrate putting the past behind us in favor of a new beginning. What better way to endorse a new beginning than to examine an insect that historically symbolizes transformation and a new beginning. The moth is a member of Lepidoptera, a large order of insects that describe moths and butterflies. Within this order is a family of insects known as Geometridae. Its family name is derived from the Greek words Geo (earth) and Metron (measure), this describes the looping stride of the larvae making it look like it’s measuring its steps. Most of us know the larvae of this family of moths as the Inchworm.

I was looking for opportunities to photograph the species I intended to write about this month on a holiday hike through Colt Creek Nature Preserve. As expected, insect populations are beginning to diminish as leaves blanket the boardwalk and trails in response to the cooler weather. One leaf in particular caught my eye as it fluttered to the ground. I invested more than a passing glance and joyfully discovered that this was not a leaf at all, but rather, a moth. There are few moth species that are active during the daytime. This was not one of them. This was a Curve-Tooth Geometer Moth (Eutrapela clemataria), one of the masters of stealth that characterize the Geometridae family.

Geometridae is a large family of moths comprised of over 35,000 species worldwide, 1,400 of which are native to North America. The Curve-Tooth Geometridae Moth (Eutrapela clemataria) is one of the largest of the Geometridae family. Its coloration ranges from shades of brown to pale yellow to resemble a dead leaf. Little is known about this species and published sources offer conflicting information.

Most sources consistently report that Eutrapela clemataria adult males fly from April to August, however, our tropical Florida environment provides opportunity for our insects to sit just outside the boundaries of “typical” behavior. The adult moth pictured was found on the first day of January 2012. Eutrapela clemataria is known to have at least two broods per year and four broods per year are common in southern states.

40 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

Depending on the season, this species will pupate underground or in leaf litter as quickly as a few weeks, or as long as a few months. The adults that are active now probably emerged in the late fall and are laying eggs that will likely hatch in the early spring when the weather begins to warm again. This species is nocturnal, male adults rest under the trees leaves during the daytime and find the flightless females on the tree trunks at night. The antennae for this Geometridae are used primarily to detect pheromones and lead the male to an appropriate mate and also help them navigate in low light conditions.

The wing structure of the CurveTooth Geometer is its most distinguishing feature and the source of its common name.

These moths hold their wings flat and straight out to the sides. A thin darker line connects the wing tips resembling the midrib of a leaf. The wing tips themselves curve slightly inward and the toothed edges of the wing complete the illusion of a mottled brown leaf. For the Curve-Tooth Geometer, its characteristic wings are an important part of its defensive strategy. Geometrida have a specialized pair of organs on their abdomen that function like an ear to detect the high pitch echoes bats use to search for prey. When a bat is detected, or the moth is otherwise threatened, the moth stops flying and initiates a free fall to the ground in a spiraling pattern mimicking a falling leaf. Bats do not search the ground for food and would certainly not rubbish through a pile of dead leaves to look for a moth.

Eutrapela clemataria are masters of stealth even in their larval stage (better known as inchworms). The inchworms remain high in host trees such as Elm, Oak, Birch and Maple to feed on its leaves, moving from leaf to leaf in its classic inchworm fashion, looping into a question mark shape and straightening up again. When in danger, the inchworm will stand up on its prologs (rear) and remain perfectly still to mimic a dead twig. Ironically, this insect, highly regarded as symbol of renewal, preserves it’s life with a cloak of death.

For me, this experience was an illustration of a greater truth.

Should you find a moth this month, I encourage you to consider the courage it has in shedding the old to manifest the new.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

41 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

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Naturally Amazing Activities Build a Light Trap

by Sean Green

Moth recording can be a very rewarding hobby. For the farmer, knowing which species populate the farm could be useful information as some species are important pollinators and others are pests in their larval stage. Some gardeners try to attract specific moths for the pollination of night blooming plants. Nature photographers are very well served with a moth trap, attracting a large variety of subjects to photograph that would be very difficult to find on a night-time hike. Young upcoming Scientists will find this natural history activity a fascinating alternative to video games or TV. Elaborate and expensive moth traps are used by professional entomologists and scientists to monitor or study moth populations. There are a number of do it yourself instructions to build a variety of moth traps, such as the Skinner trap, however not all of us have the time, tools or material needed to build one of the do it yourself traps.

Moths are hopelessly attracted to light, especially black lights (UV). In its most basic form, a moth trap is simply a source of light that attracts moths.

This month we will build a very simple, inexpensive light trap suitable for simple observation and identification of moths and other nocturnal insects. The method presented here is commonly used in field studies by scientists that have no interest in capturing or harming the moths but rather in the recording and observation of moth species.

42 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

Light Trap Materials:

Light Source: Mercury Vapor or Fluorescent Black light is best, but a standard 100w bulb will work too.

Backdrop: Large white sheet Drape the backdrop over a clothes line or fence and mount the light in front of the backdrop.

Warning: Mercury Vapor lights and high wattage lights get hot and should be mounted a safe distance from flammable material. All lights should be protected from rain and inclement weather.

Sugaring is another method entomologists use to attract moths and can be used in conjunction with the light trap. A sugar mixture about the consistency of maple syrup can be made with water and brown sugar, once made stir in a little molasses, stout such as Guiness (best when stale), or rum. Paint the mixture onto the backdrop (if you don’t mind staining the sheet), or onto a nearby block of wood or cardboard box. The sugar solution will attract species that feed as adults, the light will attract species that do not necessarily feed as adults.

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January 2012

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Prospects and Potential:

Keith Hobbs, Winter Haven High School Ag Teacher

by Ginny Mink An article from USA Today entitled: Imported Food Rarely Inspected (4/16/2007 – Andrew Bridges) reveals that: “About one-quarter of our fruit, both fresh and frozen, is imported. For tree nuts, its about half. And for fish and shellfish, more than two-thirds come from overseas.” Obviously, this is a bit old and no doubt the number of imported foods has drastically increased over the past almost five years. Why, when we have the land and ability, to provide food for our own country, are we continuing to outsource such things? The answer is really quite simple, the average farmer’s age in 2007 was 57, (http://www.ers.usda.gov/StateFacts/US.htm), the bottom line is that young people just aren’t moving into the agricultural arena at a speed which is necessary for our country to be self-sustaining. Thusly, agricultural education is becoming infinitely more important!

As we interview Ag teachers for this magazine we are discovering that a large number of them just kind of fall into their positions. Such is the case with Keith Hobbs, Ag teacher at Winter Haven High School. He said, “I’ve always been around agriculture, my dad’s side was farmers and some of them still are.

Dad did it on the side. I was always around it, but of course, I had other interests in high school so I never thought about pursuing it.” Thankfully, his thoughts changed!

“I got a degree in business from Florida Southern and worked in sales and marketing. I lived in Orlando but it was too crowded and I wanted to come back to my roots in Polk County to be near my family. I got into teaching, did the alternative education program for about ten years. I taught ISS next to the Ag teacher and he was leaving. He talked me into it because I’d never really even thought about it and I haven’t looked back since,” Keith explained. In fact, he went back and got his masters in education and took the Ag certification test. He’s been teaching for “Twenty, twenty-one years,” at this point.

Keith taught Ag at Stambaugh Middle School and then moved over to Winter Haven. He reveals, with a chuckle, “I graduated from high school in Auburndale, and was in the FFA for one year. I had mixed feelings about leaving Auburndale and coming to Winter Haven because they’re rivals.” However, having been at Winter Haven for the past four years he said, “This is really the best job that I’ve ever had. I can’t speak highly enough about the administration and other teachers. I feel like, right now, I’m working with the best group of kids I’ve ever had. These kids have been tremendous over the last couple of years!”

Reminiscing, Keith said, “At Stambaugh, the FFA kids placed in the top two or three in forestry in the state. They won a state citrus contest.” Then his train of thought moves to Winter Haven High, “I’m still trying to get the high school kids going on it.

44 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

Winter Haven is at a detriment because 99 percent of my kids haven’t had exposure to a middle school Ag program. A couple of kids a year have, but the middle schools my kids come from don’t have an Ag program so they don’t have the ability to be exposed to career development and leadership events.” Obviously this is a trying issue for Keith’s program.

Yet, he’s got a positive outlook on the progress he’s attempting to make with them. “What I’ve done at Winter Haven is when the kids come in, I’m introducing agriculture to them and showing them that there’s other things besides working in greenhouses. There’s leadership camps to learn leadership skills as well as career development events like speaking, citrus, livestock and poultry judging. My kids go to these things, they work hard at it.”

Though the lack of prior student exposure to Ag is a hindrance, other things are problematic as well. “We had a little bit of land for gardening and animals but the school has been reconstructed so it’s a small campus for such a large school. We’ve had to give up a little so we’ve had to shift gears.” Any good teacher recognizes the opportunities involved in switching gears, and Keith is no different.

“We moved from gardening and pastures into the mechanical end of it. I bought some welding equipment so we’re doing welding and some wood projects for the school. We should have our greenhouse back soon. We have a few small animals on campus.

We don’t have any large ones anymore. The ones that are there will be entered into the Polk County Youth Fair,” he explained.

Keith doesn’t let the little things keep him or his program down. In fact, he says that Ag education, “Is extremely important, it gives these kids hands on experience that they wouldn’t normally get. I think these kids aren’t going to get it anywhere else, they won’t know that they want to go into a skill unless they’ve been exposed to it. Some are college bound but some are going to go into a trade. They are learning welding and landscaping. The prospects and potential are endless. They can go as far as they want!” Then, as an afterthought he shares the fact that he makes his kids summarize the articles they read in, In the Field magazine. A great teacher doesn’t just teach a subject, he or she teaches a skill and Keith certainly has that covered!

In closing, Keith said, “To me it seems like society in general seems to think you can go to the grocery store and that your food’s just going to be there. They don’t realize what it takes to get there. If you don’t have the resources, land, labor, that food is not going to show up there and people are going to get hungry and wonder what happened!”

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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January 2012

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Highlight

Christ Hagenson

C

hrist Hagenson is a senior at Auburndale Senior High School, and is President of the Auburndale Senior FFA chapter. Christ has been involved with FFA since the seventh grade, and credits it as being the biggest influence on the person he is today. “I got into Ag class and FFA in my seventh grade year, and by my eighth grade year, I was on the officer team as the Student Advisor and a member of the Forestry team. My eighth grade year influenced me the most. I attended Stambaugh Middle School with

46 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

Mr. Hobbs as my teacher, and that year we went to the State Forestry contest and placed second. Working with Mr. Hobbs on that contest, I learned many life lessons. The main one was a mantra that I carry with me to this very day, ‘work now, have fun later.’”

After Christ moved on to high school, he continued his upward path in the FFA. During his ninth grade year, he served as the Parliamentarian, and he kept rising. In the tenth grade, he served as the Treasurer, and in his eleventh grade year he achieved the pinnacle of serving as the Chapter President. “Last year was rough, we didn’t have a lot of involvement at the chapter level and all of us officers were a little burnt out.” This year, however, Auburndale has doubled its FFA membership and Christ is nothing but excited.

“This year is going to be a great year for our chapter, we have so many goals and plans, and I can’t wait to see them pan out and to see what the year has in store.”

Christ maintains a 3.6 GPA and has taken six AP level courses in high school. He is currently dual enrolled at Polk State College, to “get ahead on my path to a degree.” Christ has also raised a market hog for the Polk County Youth Fair last year and this year. “Raising a market animal has been a great experience, it has helped me develop many skills that I will carry with me in to my career.”

Christ cites FFA as being a huge part of who he is today. “I’ve always been the person that wanted to be a leader and work with others, and FFA has helped me develop those qualities of leadership that will help me further my path in life. FFA has also helped me gain other valuable skills that I will carry with me through college and the rest of my life.”

Christ has been accepted to, and plans to attend, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia this summer and earn a degree in Diversified Agriculture. After he finishes with college, he wants to become a ranch manager and raise beef cattle.

“FFA has made me in to the person I am today and I do not know where I’d be with out it, it’s my life. I always tell people, being President of the club is like a full time job, and I love my job.”

Christ was one of two members from the Auburndale chapter to attend the National FFA Convention this past October. “Convention was a great experience, and I am glad I got to enjoy it.”

He plans to earn his State FFA Degree this year, and his ultimate goal is to earn his American FFA Degree. “That would be a point in my life where I would be the proudest of myself, the American Degree is more than just that to me, it’s a indicator of all the hard work and effort I’ve put in over the years.” Christ says, “I can’t wait to see what life has in store for me, and I credit FFA for getting me ready to lead a successful life. I am, and always will be, an FFA member.” Christ would like to thank his former and current FFA advisors, Keith Hobbs and Steven Toy for all the hours they spent molding him in to the person he is today, and for always pushing him to do his best. He would also like to thank his officer team, “without them, I don’t know where I would be. They keep me going and always push me to strive for more.”

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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Broadening Horizons: Pure Country 4H Club

by Ginny Mink Today’s youth lack a great number of things. Many of them have an air of entitlement due to parents attempting to provide for their every whim. No doubt every generation speaks negatively, on some level, of the younger generation, but those being reared right now are severely handicapped by parents whom are failing to teach them responsibility and the value of hard-work. That is, unless they are given the opportunity to participate in programs like 4H. Elecia Tate sponsors the Pure Country 4H club in Lake Alfred. She said, “I fell in love with 4H. It wasn’t just showing and riding, it was broadening my horizons. I learned to crochet and knit. I learned to sew and made outfits in my home ec class. I learned about chickens, rabbits, dog projects, and wood working projects. 4H is an outlet to opening a child’s mind. Whatever they can imagine, they can do projects for it in 4H!” Elecia’s agricultural experience began, she said, “with my lifelong love of horses. Mother says it started in my car seat. I’d jump up and down saying, ‘horsie, Mommy, horsie!’ My grandmother bought my sister and I a pony when I was eight or nine years old.

When I was in fifth or sixth grade I started getting formal riding lessons. I wanted to learn how to show so the summer before my eighth grade year I started intensifying the lessons and started showing. The fall of my eighth grade year I was in my first horse show. My sister and I were both in 4H at that time.”

As time progressed, Elecia went through a couple of different ponies. She said, “I had the opportunity to acquire an

48 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

American Saddlebred in my junior year.

She was trained as a five gaited saddlebred. I was trained to ride huntseat and western pleasure. I dabbled a little in showing halter.

You’re required in 4H to show showmanship no matter what area you’re competing in. I knew nothing about showing saddleseat. I borrowed some huntseat tack from a local camp and took her to a local show just to try her out. I rode her huntseat. I wouldn’t say it was a total disaster but I’m sure the judge got a good laugh. I wasn’t getting the gaits I wanted but we got some ribbons. I fell in love with the mare that summer.”

Though Elecia only spent five years in 4H she said, “I qualified for state every year I was in 4H. My junior year was the first time I won any ribbons at state. I wouldn’t say I can still ride saddleseat but I could fake it if I had to. My senior year my mother surprised me with my cousin’s horse as a Christmas present. That year took off. That was my best year in 4H! I won every contest I could get my hands on. That year I decided to turn my saddlebred into a breeding project. A whole new world opened up. Everything I learned I read through 4H. Little did I know that this is what I’d be doing. I took her up to UF to their breeding program and I was also showing the new horse I had gotten.”

She really liked the new horse though, “he was a freedom horse or a liberty horse,” which she says, “means he jumped at will and could get out of everything!” She adds, “A good horse will make a rider, a bad horse will take it away, a good horse will give it

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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Having graduated from high school, Elecia says, “I loved 4H and I didn’t want to quit. My agent suggested I start a 4H club but I had a difficult time jumping from being a 4H-er into being a leader so my club only lasted two years and I folded.” Meanwhile she started breeding thoroughbreds for the track. She explained, “4H opened the door for the next 20 years of breeding horses. I stopped showing horses and focused on the brood mares and we had some race horses that we did pretty well with. Then I got a job at Disney where I met my husband (about 12 years ago). He had a son and a daughter that were right at 4H age and I started teaching them to ride. I took her to a POA show and someone suggested I start a 4H club, so I did.”

Elecia started Pure Country 4H Club about 10 years ago. “We do just about a little of everything. We do our fundraisers, which help them get the entry fees for youth fair. I took them to Marineland last year. It was a very informative fieldtrip for the club. They wanted to know how they could get involved in marine life, rehabilitating dolphins. This year after youth fair we’re hoping to take a trip to a small family farm where they raise sheep for meat, have a citrus grove and raise Florida peaches. So, they’ll learn about the lambs and Florida horticulture.”

Although Elecia’s club is small, she says she likes it that way.

“The club has been mostly word of mouth. It gives them an outlet to see they have a purpose in life. Many of my members come from broken homes. I had a girl with ADHD who was living with her grandparents and they said it was all the difference in the world. She’s since grown up, married and has two children of her

49 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

own that she wants to get involved in 4H. I want them to know, no matter what life has thrown at you, there is another avenue out there in which you can be accepted and learn and excel. 4H is a wonderful, wonderful organization because it gives kids who wouldn’t otherwise have this opportunity, the chance to grow up and become who they can become!”

Anyone interested in checking out Pure Country 4H Club can contact Elecia via phone at 863-875-4939 or through email: tateinlafl@yahoo.com.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

THE 65TH ANNUAL POLK COUNTY YOUTH FAIR KICKS OFF ON JANUARY 21, 2012 The 65th Annual Polk County Youth Fair, located at 1702 Highway 17 South in Bartow, will begin on January 21. This event is full of fun and exciting competitions throughout the week beginning with the Horsemanship Show at 8:30 AM on Saturday. This is a family event and admission is free.

The Fair consist of market animals, ornamental plants, consumer science projects, competitions and much more.

The Annual Polk County Youth Fair had its beginning on November 7, 1947. The concept of the Fair has been to provide a means for the youth of Polk County in 4-H Clubs, FFA and FHA to display exhibits of their work in agricultural and consumer science projects, and to compete as individuals with one another and against the highest standards of perfection in a program “serving to promote the educational development of the youth of the county.”

Polk County comes together with over 200 volunteers that support and educate the Youth of Polk County. Not only are these young exhibitors learning to care for and prepare their projects, they are learning to take responsibility for their project and see it through to the end. The Youth Fair has created an atmosphere which appeals to the interest of spectators and others who give personal and financial support to the Fair.

Schedule of Events

Buildings are open to public each day at 8:30 am and close after last event of the evening.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2012 9:00 am

Judging of Non-Perishables/Tri-Color Judging

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 2012 8:30 am - 9:00 am

Horse Show Judging of Perishables/TriColor Judging

SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2012 10:00 am (first half) Market Hog Show 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Intermission 2:30 pm (second half) Market Hog Show

MONDAY, JANUARY 23, 2012 8:30 am - 2:30 pm 9:30 am - 3:00 pm 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm 6:00 pm

Archery Competition Tablesetting & Menu Planning Contest Top Ranch Hand Contest Sew Off Contest - Individual (pajama pant) Market Hog Showmanship Contest

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Working Booths Market Hog Sale Cake Auction Mannequin Modeling Sew Off Contest - Team (pillow) Commercial Heifer Show/Showmanship

50 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2012 9:00 am - noon 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm

Storytelling Contest Chili Cook Off Contest Dog Showmanship Class Poultry Show/Showmanship Whip Popping Contest

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 8:00 am 9:00 am - 11:00 am 9:00 am - noon 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm 7:00 pm

Dog Show Demonstrations, Illustrated Talks Poultry Egg and Rabbit Judging Contests Beef Breeding Show/Showmanship Scrap Off Contest Mannequin Modeling Working Booths Market Steer Show/Showmanship

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2012 9:00 am - 9:45 am 10:00 am - noon 10:00 am - noon 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm 6:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:30 pm

Horticulture Judging Contest Working Booths Mannequin Modeling Blueberry, Citrus & Plant Sale Tri-Color Presentation Parade of Champions Commercial Heifer Sale Market Steer Sale

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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Polk County Allied Trade Show & Ranch Rodeo The Polk County Cattlemen’s Association and UF/IFAS Extension Service will be hosting their 7th Annual Allied Trade Show and 5th Annual Ranch Rodeo on Saturday, February 11, at the Bartow Horse Arena at the Agri-Civic Center on Highway 17 South in Bartow. The Trade Show will begin at 9:00 am followed by the Ranch Rodeo to begin at 1:00pm.

At the Trade Show there will be a host of exhibitors showing off the latest and greatest in the livestock industry. Both large and small cattle producers will benefit from participating in this event.

If you are interested in exhibiting your product or service, please contact Livestock Agent, Bridget Carlisle at (863) 519-8677 or bccarlis@ufl.edu.

The Ranch Rodeo events will include calf branding, double mugging, stampede race, wild cow milking, colt riding, and senior sorting. The winning Ranch Rodeo team will continue on to the State Ranch Rodeo Finals in Kissimmee in October. Entries are limited to Polk County Ranch teams. For more information on entering your team, contact Rodeo Chair, Fred Waters at (863) 559-7808 or 158*17*6894.

The Polk County Cattlemen’s Association would like to thank their 2011 rodeo sponsors for their generous and continuing support. Circle Bar J Feed & Tack, Florida

52 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

Farm & Ranch Supply, Lay’s Feed & Western Wear, Higgenbotham Auctioneers, Intervet/Schering-Plough, Morrison Ranch, and Putnam Groves and Ranches, Inc. were sponsors of the rodeo events. The saddles were sponsored by Morrison Ranch, Lightsey Cattle Company, M&D Overstreet Ranch, and Cattlemen’s Livestock Market. Stock was provided by Bobby King, Danny McClelland, Mike Tomkow, and Norman Brothers Cattle. Special thanks go to our Gold Sponsors, Betty and Billy Morrison of Morrison Ranch.

We would also like to thank our Trade Show Sponsors: Bartow Ford, Fields Equipment Co., Central States Enterprises, Crop Production Services, Farm Credit, Merial, Organic Matters, Inc., Revinu, Salacoa Valley Farms, Sweet Pro, Higgenbotham Auctioneers, and Intervet/Schering-Plough.

We hope you will plan to bring your family and join us for this year’s rodeo and trade show on February 11. Admission to the Trade Show and Ranch Rodeo is free for members of the Polk County Cattlemen’s Association and $10 for all others. Children ages 8 and under are free.

Tickets may be purchased at the event. Free gift to the first 200 through the gate!

This is sure to be an informative and entertaining event, see you there!

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 53

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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 INTERNATIONAL 3444 Diesel tractor w/loader, 3 point lift, pto, runs & works. $3.750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 1984 MASSEY FERGUSON 240 tractor, 42 pto hp, 2wd, works great! $5,950. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

Jobs 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

January 2012

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-Rural) Please call Marne Vorndran for more information 863-899-9784.

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.

SALE/LEASE 60 ACRE GROVE Plant City with well, suitable for strawberry field, lease or purchasing option, owner financing available, negotiable terms. Call Marvin (813) 833-7522 or email bps500@aol.com 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.

BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA MLS#212769 Private home with 3BR, 2.5 baths, unfinished basement, nice kitchen, Sunroom, back deck for cooking out, nestled in the trees, cool enough that there is no AC. Lots of outbuildings. A must see! 2.47 acres wooded, low maintenance. $180,000 Call Jane Baer w/ Jane Baer Realty 1-800-820-7829 BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA MLS#190298 Beautiful RV lot with cement pad, decking includes the 5th wheel. Less than 2 years old! River’s Edge RV Park offers a large clubhouse, stocked lake for fishing, heated and cooled laundry and shower facilities. $69,000 Call Jane Baer w/ Jane Baer Realty 1-800-820-7829

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GM IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH FARM BUREAU速 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速 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速 are registered service marks owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation, and are used herein (or by GM) under license. 息2011 General Motors LLC

W W W. S T I N G R AY F L E E T. C O M 55 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

January 2012

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com