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Business Up Front
By Libby Hopkins
Alan’s Air Conditioning has been a part of the Plant City community for two decades. They provide reliable air conditioning installation services for homes and businesses. Brian Lewis is the owner of the business and he was born and raised in Plant City. He bought the business from his father in 2013, but he has been a part of the business since his dad started in 1994. “After I graduated high school, I was working for Publix and on my days off, I would work for my dad,” Lewis said. He would work with his dad but he wasn’t sure if air conditioning was something he wanted to do full-time. Lewis started working in the construction business building power plants and he did that for four years but found the business not to be a steady source of income. “In construction, you get paid really well, but you get laid off quite a bit,” Lewis said. “So when I would get laid off, I would always go back and work for my dad.” His dad always had a job waiting for him and as he got older, he realized that working with his dad was what he should be doing. “My dad told me he could teach me a trade and possibly even give me a business one day,” Lewis said. “He also guaranteed he would never lay me off.” Lewis attended air conditioning school in Lakeland and got his certification. Small businesses like Alan’s Air Conditioning are what keeps the Plant City economy going and Lewis is thrilled that his business is a part of the community. “When my dad was a young man, he knew he had to find a trade that people would always need and in Florida, people need air conditioning,” Lewis said. It took his dad awhile to find a company that would teach him about air conditioning but when he did, he learned quickly and excelled in the trade. “He started out washing units, cleaning them out and changing filters, but he worked his way up through the ranks and eventually went to school and then later started his own business,” Lewis said. His father built his business on word of mouth through the community and that’s why keeping things local is so important to Lewis and his business. “If you work for somebody, whether it is friends, family or neighbors, they WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
will tell their friends and family, which in return builds your business,” Lewis said. “That’s what my dad taught me and he also taught me that bad news travels fast, which can ruin your business.” Lewis passed this knowledge down to his employees. “You always want to be honest, have integrity, treat people the way they want to be treated, give them a fair price and good work,” Lewis said. “It will go a long way and we’ve seen that in our customers.” The business is constantly evolving to offer its customers new services. They started offering foam insulation and it has helped the business to stay busy during the off season. “I did some research and brought the insulation business into the company,” Lewis said. “It really helps us during the seasonal months.” Lewis installs foam insulation in many of the local berry farmers and fish farmer’s warehouses. “They wanted to turn their metal warehouse into a kind of cooler to help keep their produce and fish alive, so we go in and spray foam on the walls along with installing air conditioning units,” Lewis said. “It has been working out very well for us and it’s another service we are pleased to offer.” Lewis hopes to continue to grow his business but he knows he can’t do that without the help of his employees. “When my dad started this business, it was just he and I and one helper. Now we have 12 employees and I’m very proud of all of them,” Lewis said. “I talk all the time about how proud I am of everyone from the ladies in the office answering the phones to the guys out there doing the work.” He feels truly blessed to have such a wonderful business. “Anytime we are looking for a new employee, God always brings us the perfect person,” Lewis said. “Without them, we couldn’t be as efficient as we are now.” If you would like to learn more about the services offered at Alan’s Air Conditioning, you can visit their website at www.alansairconditioning.com or give Lewis a call at 813-752-0821. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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POLK COU NTY
®
Contents
CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION
V O L . 7 • IS S U E 7
Contents
VOL. 7 • ISSUE 9
F eature S tory
Hailey Tomkow Rob Krieger Polk County
Cattlemen’s P a g e 3Sweetheart 4
Page
24
over photo by Connie Westerfeld CD photography
Business Up Front
Page 3
Meet The Minks
Page 36
Master Gardner
Page 10
Recipe
Page 40
Fishing Hot Spots
Page 14
Florida Fava Beans
Page 41
The Paper Bag Project
Page 18
Naturally Amazing: Cordage Crafts
Page 42
Rocking Chair Chatter
Page 22
A Closer Look: Yellow Sac Spider
Blueberry Tour
Page 28
Florida Peaches
Page 32
Page 43
Celebrating 100 Years of Extension
Page 44
2014 Patronage Refund Release
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President – J. B. Wynn OFFICERSDave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 (863) 581-3255 & B OARD OF DIRECTORS cattlemenslivestock@ jbwynn29@gmail.com P resident - C harlesearthlink.net C lark ( 863) 528-8537 Vice President – David Mike Facente McCullerscclark@ expoco.com 697-9419 (863) 635-2821crookedlaV ice P resident - Dave(863) Tomkow keranch@verizon.net ( 863) 6 6 5-50 88 cattlemanslivetock@ earthlink.net Standing Committee Chairs: Secretary/Treasurer - Justin S ecretary/ Treasurer - J ustin B unch Membership- J.B. Wynn Bunch ( 863) 4 25-1121 jbunch@ agriumretail.com (863) 425-1121 A l B ellotto - ( 863) 581-5515Events- Kevin Fussell jbunch@agriumretail.com R ay C lark - ( 863) 6 83-819 6 (863) 412-5876 rclark@ tampabay.rr.com State Director – Ray Clark L .B .(863) F landers, DV M - ( 863) 6 4 Trade 4 -5974 Show640-0719 rclark@tampabay.rr.com Dewey F ussell - ( 863) 9 84 -3782 Rodeo- Fred Waters Mike F ussell - ( 863) 69 8-8314 Al Bellotto fussell.flafarm@ verizon.net (863) 559-7808 (863) 581-5515 David McC ullers - ( 863) 528-1195 Website – Chris Nelson MobyCharles Persing (863) 533-1020 Clark- ( 863) 528-4 379 Ned W aters - ( 863) 69 8-1597 RChrisnelson@gmail.com watersn@ doacs.state.fl.us (863) 528-8537 J .B . W ynn - ( 863) 581-3255 cclarkc4@yahoo.com Cattlewomen – Vice Presijbwynn29 @ gmail.com dent, Laura Slocumb L.B. Flanders, DVMFacente - ( 863) (863)697-9419 660-7000 A lternate - Mike (863) 644-5974 laura@higgenbotham.com S tanding C ommittee C hairs:
Membership - J .B . W ynnExtension – Bridget Carlisle Dewey Fussell
(863)- 984-3782 PO Box4 12-5876 9005, Drawer HS03 E vents K evin F ussell ( 863) Bartow, FL 33831
R odeo - F red W aters ( 863) 559 -780 8 Mike Fussell (863) 519-1048 watersf@ doacs.state.fl.us (863) 698-8314 bccarlis@ufl.edu Website - Chris Nelson
fussell.flafarm@verizon.net C attlewomen - P resident Sheriff’s Dept. – Sgt. Marjorie W ood ( 863) 6 6 0 -4 137 Moby Persing Tommy Dixon onnie397@ aol.com (863) 528-4379 (863) 534-7205 E xtension - B ridget C arlisle ( 863) 519 -8677 tdixon@polksheriff.org bccarlis@ ufl.edu
S heriff’s Dept. - S gt. Tommy Dixon
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P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS0 3 Bartow, FL 33831 -9005
May 2014
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Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt
We’ve all heard the old saying, “children absorb information like a sponge.” So let’s start now by supporting our youth to become the next generation of food system leaders, farmers, agricultural entrepreneurs, agronomists, extension agents, educators, scientist, policy makers, and the list goes on and on. Cultivating the education of our youth ensures we will have a sustainable food system in the future. We need our young people to be prepared to take over the business of growing our nations food. When you see local FFA and 4-H students working on projects in the community, take time to let them know how much you appreciate them and their hard work. These organizations, and many others, have partnered for years to develop and plan educational programs to increase the agricultural knowledge of our youth. Increasing the interest our youth have on knowing how food is produced and where it comes from should be of the greatest importance. They need to know that they can have a viable and sustainable career in agriculture. Help us spread the word about agriculture by visiting our advertisers. They allow us to continue to cover what is growing! Until Next Month,
Editor-In-Chief Al Berry Editor Pasty Berry Office Manager Bob Hughens Sales Manager Danny Crampton Sales Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton Melissa Nichols
Affordable Garage Door.................9 Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers..............................16 Alan’s Air Conditioning....................5 Bankers South.................................12 Broke & Poor...................................31 Cattlemen’s Feed & Ranch Supplies................................16 Cattleman’s Livestock Auction.....21 Cecil Breeding Farm.......................13 Country Village...............................34 DOTs Laundry Soap......................23 Ellison RBM Inc...............................39 Everglades Farm Equipment........48 Exo Creative...................................23 Farm Bureau Ins Bill William.......31 Farm Credit.....................................35 Fla Dpt of Ag & Consumer Svcs..........................26 Fla Cattlemen’s Foundation..........15 Florida Fence Post Company........15 Fran Haasch.......................................2 Fred’s Market Restaurant...............9 Grove Equipment Service.............17 Grove Equipment Service............30
Creative Director/Illustrator
Gulf Coast Tractor.........................38
Juan Alvarez
Helena Chemical-Tampa...............21 International Market World.........20
Photography Karen Berry Al Berry Stephanie Humphrey Melissa Nichols
Jason Grimes Contracting.............7 Key Plex............................................47 Lightsey Cattle Co.........................39 Mosaic.................................................7 MST Sod..........................................34 Napa.................................................20
Sarah
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The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. _ Numbers 6:25
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Libby Hopkins Melissa Nichols
Oglesby and Co..............................45
Contributing Writers Woody Gore
The Bug Man..................................39
Pathway Biologic............................37 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association...................4 Seedway...........................................23 Southwestern Produce..................33 Stephanie Humphrey.....................42 Smolker, Bartlett, Schlosser, Loeb & Hind .................15 WM G Roe & Son............................27
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The work we do at Mosaic is critical to helping feed the world. We provide farmers with phosphate crop nutrients that enable them to produce more food on less land.
IMAGINE A WORLD WITH HALF AS MUCH FOOD. Without crop nutrients, that would be our reality.
Essential crop nutrients — like phosphate mined and manufactured in Florida — are responsible for 40-60 percent of the crop yields farmers produce worldwide.* That translates into more abundant and affordable food here at home. As our world keeps growing, Mosaic keeps working to help put food on the table, for all of us.
We help the world grow the food it needs. ®
mosaicco.com/florida *
Source: Agronomy Journal
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Well, it looks like we made it through another Florida “Winter.”
Once again,
We welcome the Spring on March 20 with green grasses and cattle prices. As I’mI am writing this about letter, how I am as I high am writing this letter, thinking reflecting howbeen goodtoit receive is to beanin unusual the cattle business blessed weonhave amount of and howforthankful I am get Ittohas work with such spring a good rainfall this time of to year. been a great group people. and calf prices continue to remain for theof cattlemen high. Everyone I talk to is enjoying the green grass as Speaking of good long as they can. people, the Polk County Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo & Trade Show was a big success once again. Held on 15 at Humanities the Agricultural On Saturday MayFebruary 3, the Florida CouncilCenter held in Bartow, approximately 1,500 attendees came outby to a teachers workshop in Bartow. It was attended watch and girls schools competeupintovarious teacherscowboys from elementary college events level. including Wild Bob CowStone, Milkingwho andisthe Wild Horse Race. Photographer actively involved in T welve teams competedFoundation, and tried their win the Florida Cattlemen’s askedhardest the PolktoCatatlemen coveted or tour especially the first prize to event put onbuckle a ranch and cook theseplace teachers of a trophy saddle. First place title asand saddles a steak supper. We readily accepted, teachers arewent the to Lightsey Cattle Company. Congrats to about Clint and gateway to reaching many more children Ag. Cliff Lightsey, Dusty and Charity Crosby and Michael Grimaldi. team will represent Polk County well hosted in the TheThis Greenwood family of Ft. Meade graciously 2014 Ranchtour Rodeo FinalsRanch. in Kissimmee this toured Fall. the ranch at State their B-J The group the ranch and was told about their family cattle operaThe be ableatosafe pulland off healthy this rotion committee and all thatwould goes never into creating deo eventforwithout the help whogoes provide product consumers. Lotsof ofvolunteers hard work into their time,thetrucks, stock andyou equipment. big growing cows trailers, and calves that enjoy as Abeef thank you as well to all of the sponsors! These companies and individuals donate their money, so make sure to remember these companies when it comes time to doing business. The CattleWomen provide the food at
the concession stand - and they never disappoint! Fred Waters hasstore. chaired this committee everyup year - soa thank from the The tour was finished with steak him when you see these Cattlemen. people, thisThank event dinner cooked byhim. the Without Polk County would you sonever much happen. to Bud Greenwood and his family for their hospitality! March is the month for the Polk County Agri-Fest which takes place Bartowimportant at the Agricultural Center. Running I think it isinalways to take these opportunifrom March 10-14 and 17-21, this program teaches Polk ties to educate the interested public on the cattle indusCounty graders theaimportance of agriculture our try. Let4th them see on firsthand basis the hard in work, state andtheit’sanimals, huge impact on our economy. Volunteers love of and stewardship of the land that is are needed. Also, Cattlemen’s an always everyday way of life the for Florida us as cattlemen, as Legislawell as tive Quarterly takes place in Tallahassee on March 11-13. everyone who is involved in the agriculture lifestyle. This gives the cattlemen and women an opportunity to meet with state legislators issues facing I know everyone is busy andregarding barely has enough timeour to industry. If you havebut a chance attend theto FFA’s catch their breathe, it is sotoimportant take 11th the Annual Beast & Auction on them Marchon 22this - it’sway always time with theFeast public to educate of lifea great timeare(especially to to trylive. new wild food). that we so blessed Hope to see you at any of these well-organized events!
JB Wynn JB Wynn JB Wynn Polk County Catlemen’s Association President Polk County Catlemen’s Association President
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2% Farm and ranch families comprise just 2 percent of the U.S. population. Today’s farmers produce 262 percent more food with 2 percent fewer inputs (labor, seeds, feed, fertilizer, etc.), compared with 1950. Farmers and ranchers receive only 16 cents out of every dollar spent on food at home and away from home. The rest goes for costs beyond the farm gate: wages and materials for production, processing, marketing, transportation and distribution. In 1980, farmers and ranchers received 31 cents. Careful stewardship by farmers has spurred a nearly 50 percent decline in erosion of cropland by wind and water since 1982. More than half of America’s farmers intentionally provide habitat for wildlife. Deer, moose, fowl and other species have shown significant population increases for decades. Farmers, ranchers and other landowners have installed more than 2 million miles of conservation buffers under farm bill initiatives. Buffers improve soil, air and water quality; enhance wildlife habitat; and create scenic landscapes. Farmers have enrolled a total of 31 million acres in the Conservation Reserve Program to protect the environment and provide habitat for wildlife. Since its inception in 1985, the program has helped reduce soil erosion by 622 million tons and restored more than 2 million acres of wetlands. In 2010, $115 billion worth of American agricultural products were exported around the world. The United States sells more food and fiber to world markets than we import, creating a positive agricultural trade balance. www.fb.org
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M AS TER GA R D EN ER
The Versatile Cordyline By Debra Howell
How literate are you when it comes to Hawaiian culture? Did you know all of their goddesses were real – like actual people? With the help of my friend, Joanna Hause, who is an accomplished Hawaiian dancer at Disney World and well-versed in Hawaiian customs, I am able to bring to you some interesting facts and an introduction to Ti cultivation and use. According to island cosmology, the god of war and “things that stand tall” is called Ku. Lono is the god of the harvest and of low vines like squash and pumpkins. The green Ti plant is the embodiment of Ku and Lono and deemed a most powerful, most precious medicine. The shiny side of the Ti leaf is the analgesic side. It is said to repel heat and inflammation and is good for pain. In order to avail one’s self of its analgesic properties, you may debone the leaf, place it on the affected area with the shiny side down, wrap it with an elastic bandage and leave it in place until the leaf gets mushy and then return the leaf to the ground. Other plants used by the Hawaiian culture are noni leaves, which are good for muscles. In fact, noni is being recognized worldwide for its healthful properties. Banana bark is used on tendons and plantain for skeletal muscles. Cooking with or taking ginger has been used for years for an upset tummy and is known to benefit the digestion. 10
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I have an antique letter opener, which bears the Hawaiian theme of a traditional female dancer. The blade part is bronze and the finial is the dancer. I have always liked this piece and use it for the intended purpose. Only after researching the Cordyline Ti plants did I become aware of the Ti leaf motif of which it is composed. In reality, the Ti leaves are indeed used in the hula skirt. An underlying theme here is an awareness by the Hawaiian people to remain close to their environment and avail themselves of the bounty of nature which teems around them. In Genesis, God proclaimed, “Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth…” While Cordylines are very popular in Hawaii, where they exist as a feral weed, they also occur in parts of Asia, New Guinea, New Zealand, South America, Mauritius and Australia. These plants are members of the Agavaceae. You may already be acquainted with the agave family through its use in the manufacture of tequila. The Ti plant is also utilized to make beer and liquor. In Hawaii, the rhizomes are distilled and fermented to make okolehao, which is a liquor. And this fact was a real pearl: in the early 1900s the roots were used as a glossy covering for surfboards. Also, the leaves were used for, of all things, “lava sledding!” The leaves were lashed WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
together and used to ride down hills. What a wild ride that would be. Cordylines are popular ornamental plants with the Red Sister Ti enjoying widespread use in municipal and commercial landscaping applications. I have found the green Ti plant to be very drought resistant. In fact, I never water them. The Red Sister and the Firebrand seem to need more moisture. The Ti plants need well-drained, fertile soils and prefer a soil pH of 6-6.5. They claim to have poor salt tolerance, but I have seen multitudes of Ti plants used in commercial landscaping quite near the coast. You will want to space them about 36-60 inches apart, as they will begin to grow in a clumping fashion. Ti’s are fairly hardy but may require protection in zones where winter temperatures dip below 55° F. They appreciate an environment which is part sun and part shade. Cordyline fruticosa is an evergreen shrub with a somewhat palm-like appearance. The beautiful leaves may get a little ragged following a cold snap or a high wind event. You may choose to containerize the Ti thereby making it easier to protect or move around your yard to suit your whims. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
I have found Ti’s to be fairly easy to propagate, and they produce roots pretty rapidly. You may just stick a stem in a bucket of water or try air layering the stems. For a more attractive appearance, the Ti should have stems of various heights and be clad in leaves. In ancient times, the Ti was thought to possess strong spiritual powers. The leaves were only allowed to grace the neck of a high leader such as Kahuna and ali’i. The Tongan sisi, or dance skirt, was composed of green Ti leaves and adorned with red or yellow leaves. The Hawaiian Ti is named from a Greek word, kordyle, meaning club and also bears the name “good luck tree.” If your desire is to create a colorful, low-maintenance, tropical landscape effect, then you cannot go wrong with the versatile Ti plant family. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Keith & Heidi Ruzzo
Tampa Bay Fishing Report MAY 2014 The bait is finally showing up on the grass flats and that means one thing, we’re finally going to catch fish. So now it’s time to get that net out, get it repaired and get those net throwing muscles loosened up. Because unless you’re an artificial angler, you’ve got some work to do before you can catch a few fish.
MACKEREL and they should be in full swing this month. Good catches have already been reported, some ranging 3 to 4 lbs. Chum them up with some live threadfins or greenbacks, send one up current on a free-line with at least 50# leader and a long shank silver 2/0 hook and hold on to that rod and reel.
SNOOK are everywhere and like the last two months they continue to bite. A good tidal grass flat, mangrove shorelines, passes or cuts from upper Tampa Bay all the way to Sarasota will prove productive.
Also, remember when the mackerel show up so do the Sharks. So, if you like catching a few black tips they will be around your boat especially when the mackerel are feeding.
SPOTTED SEA TROUT should continue improving, especially as bait moves onto the flats. Look for lush grass flats with plenty of sandy potholes. These potholes should produce some good size fish using small popping corks or free lined. I’ve also found some really nice trout in deeper rocky bottom water. REDFISH should start settling in for the summer. Check your favorite oyster bars, cuts and broken bottom grass flats on the last of an outgoing tide and the first of an incoming. Don’t forget those large schools of mullet as Redfish feed right along with the big mullet and usually follow the larger schools. Use artificial lures, greenbacks and cut bait. COBIA should start crusing the sandy flats and markers looking for easy meals and they will eat just about anything tossed at them. They tend to follow large rays and manatees. Threadfin Herring throughout Tampa Bay means SPANISH 14
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TARPON are showing around the Skyway with a few on the beach. They should move inside during the summer around deeper flats. Expect plenty of activity by months end and on through the summer. Try free-lining some threadfins or greenbacks and small crabs.
“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” – 813-477-3814 Captain Woody Gore is the area’s top outdoor fishing guide. Guiding and fishing the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Bradenton, and Sarasota areas for over fifty years, he offers world class fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories. Single or Multi-boat Group Charters are all the same. With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Just tell him what you need and it’s done.
Visit his website at: WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com
or give him a call at 813-477-3814
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The Paper Bag Project By Kara Jo Wietrzykowski For Chris Richard and Stacye Jones, success is no stranger. Richard led an incredibly impressive basketball career and Jones let art and creativity pave her way to success. However, they both started in the same place, Lakeland. Richard first found his confidence at a young age through art and music. He then started competitive basketball in ninth grade, which led to an exceptional high school career that earned him numerous prestigious awards. Richard then became a key player for two of the Florida Gator’s NCAA Championship teams before entering the 2007 NBA draft. He was a key contributor for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Chicago Bulls before playing for the Chinese Basketball Association. During his time overseas, Richard traveled to numerous countries where his eyes were opened to the need for providing better opportunities to the underprivileged and at-risk youth. In response to this enlightenment, Richard returned to Lakeland and founded the Rich Kids Project. His hope was to give the youth an opportunity to explore their talents and interests. Stacye Jones has had success in art since she was in second grade. Through positive influences and the ability to express herself through art, Jones followed her passion all over Florida. She was accepted into the program at University of Florida and completed her degree before moving to Miami to further her studies. Jones loved art and believed in its influence enough to make it into a successful career. “Everything is art. People search for love throughout their life and I fell in love with art and art has loved me.” This was the passion that Stacye allowed to flourish in her own business, Simply Creative Designing, which is the perfect intersection of art, beauty and success. 18
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Chris and Stacye may have grown up on two very different career paths, but they have intersected at a major road: their passion for reaching the children in their hometown of Lakeland. It was out of this passion that the Paper Bag Project grew. Everyone knows what a paper bag looks like; it’s universal. There are paper bags in every home around the world. It’s common and, for the most part, overlooked. However, for one day on April 26th, the paper bag was home to tools that a child could use to realize a world of options lay in front of them. The project took place at Girl’s Inc. in Lakeland, where Jones attended and explored her talents as a child. She was thrilled that director, Kay Fields, gave permission to use the yard as grounds for a community garden and mural space. Fields not only supported the project, but also participated in planting, painting and encouraging the children in their efforts. Members of Girl’s Inc. along with their parents, volunteers and other children from the community arrived at 9 AM on Saturday. The morning was spent preparing to plant and paint. Bo Dorman, owner of her own landscaping business, designed the layout of the community potager garden and donated many of the plants and materials needed for it to come to life. A team of talented volunteers drew beautiful designs on panels that would be filled in by the children. After lunch, Richard and Jones, along with volunteers, helped the children understand the importance of giving back to their community through artwork. Each brush stroke was an expression of WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
love for their hometown, and each flower a reminder of how beautiful their community could be. As the afternoon unfolded, the children began to plant and paint on their own. Smiles lit their faces as they dug holes in the soft ground and transferred plants from pots to soil. Laughter was constant as they used brushes and fingers to add paint to outlined butterflies, flowers, and trees. Seven-year-old Kirstyn never stopped smiling as she learned how to paint grass with her fingers and pat the soil around newly planted flowers. Kirstyn’s mother, Ra’chel, applauded the event for giving back to the community and said of her daughter, “She is loving it. She is planting and she loves to draw.” In one afternoon, the yard was transformed into a beautiful sanctuary of color by the hands of children exploring their newly found talents. So, what about the paper bag? Richard and Jones did not want the children to forget the important lessons they learned that day. Not only the lessons of painting and planting, but the reminder that they had more talents and abilities than they ever thought possible. So, each child received a paper bag that contained planting and painting materials to take home. They were given soil, seeds, paint brushes, paint, notepads and stickers to continue their self expression and exploration. It is people like Chris Richard and Stacye Jones that help illuminate the future of our youth. This earth day project is one that will continue to grow in the minds and hearts of Lakeland’s children, their parents, and all the volunteers that made our community a little bit more beautiful.
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Cattlemen’s Livestock Market
IN BUSINESS NOW FOR OVER 15 YEARS
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
3305 Hwy 92 E • Lakeland, FL 33801
Weekly Beef Sale:
Tuesday 12:00 Noon Pairs and all Vet checked cattle will be sold at 3pm
NEW, USED and ABUSED! Cattle Receiving Schedule:
HOME & MOBILE HOME SUPPLIES
Mondays: 8am-9pm April thru October 8am-8pm November thru March Tuesdays: 7am- End of Sale
• Code Approved Windows • Roof Overs • Metal Roofing • Window Rooms • Shower Stalls For Competitive Prices, Let Cattlemen’s Livestock • Screen Rooms • Complete Line of Plumbing • Carports Auction Market handle your Livestock Merchandising • Trim Moulding • Awnings Watch our sales online at LMAAuctions.com • Vanities • Wood Paneling Special Sales: • Kitchen Cabinets • Steps Replacement Heifer Sales, Direct Sales, Video Sales, • Alcoa® Vinyl Siding • Antiques Superior Livestock Representative All Breed Bull Sales, On Site Dispersal Sales • Stepping Stones/Pavers • Skirting (Includes Dairy, Beef and Equipment) • Doors (Interior & Exterior) ake We M w Windo s n Scree559-5091 (863)
Dave or Mike Tomkow
Dave Cell (863) 559-3266 or Mike Cell Office (863) 665-5088 or Home (352) 523-2081
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813
752-3378
2670 Hwy. 92 E Plant City, FL (Between Lakeland and Plant City)
OPEN SATURDAYS: 8:30-5:00 www.brokeandpoorpc@aol.com
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Technology I have been into electronics most all my life. To the best of my memory it started when I was about 12 years old. I recall stringing a copper wire with a tin can on each end between our houses over to Pat Sweeney, my next door neighbor. We would talk to each other by speaking into the can. I don’t think it really worked, but we made a project out of it. The best thing that came from it was the birds would perch on it, and we would then make a list of all the different ones. Over the years everything has change in the electronic world of communication. I was discussing the change with a couple of old timers at the Sawmill Restaurant in Blairsville, Georgia recently. Rufus Jasper had just purchased his first cell phone, and was trying to get some help from Buster McCraw, who knew as much about the phone as Rufus. Buster said he heard where some construction men dug a trench that was 12 feet deep in Ellijay, a neighboring city, and found pieces of comer wire dating back almost a hundred years. He said they concluded that the city’s ancestors already had a telephone network back then. Gertrude the waitress overheard the story and said she had just read where some archaeologists dug to a depth of 50 feet on Brasstown Bald, and found traces of old copper wire. She said her family had lived in Brasstown forever, and she believes that their ancestors already had an advanced high-tech communication network at least 100 years earlier than the one in Ellijay. Bubba, sitting at the next table downing four scrambled eggs, six pieces of toast, and at least a pound of grits, along with who knows how much bacon, joined in and said he had just read an article in the newspaper where someone was digging a well in Sam Johnson’s pasture off Old Owltown road there in Blairsville, and found absolutely nothing down to a depth of 100 feet. Bubba said they concluded that 300 years ago, Blairsville had already gone wireless. I have had some interesting things happen to me over the past few years with my cell phone. I recall stopping at a rest stop on I-75 to use the rest room. I went to the men’s room. The first stall was taken so I went to the second one. As soon as I sat down I heard the voice in the next stall say, “Hi there, how is it going?” Well, I am not usually one to strike up a conversation while sitting on a commode at rest stop on I-75. I paused a moment and said, “I’m doing okay.” He replies, “So, what are you doing?” Now this is getting a bit weird, but I replied, “I’m headed back to Plant City, Florida…” Then I hear the person get a little upset, and he said, “Look let me call you back. Every time I ask you a question this screwball in the next stall keeps answering me.” Here’s how to tell if you are addicted to your cell phone. Do you use the menu light as your nightlight? When getting into a car accident, is your first response, “Can you wait a minute, I’m bleeding?” Does raising your children interfere with programming your cell phone? I read the other day where a woman was buried with a cell phone in her casket to keep her connected to the departed world. They said it was put on vibrate in order to not disturb others buried nearby with the ringing. I suppose next the phone companies will have no roll-over 22
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minutes, unlimited casket conference calling and hands free dialing. I can hear the conversation now, “I can’t hear you, my phone went dead. Call me back you’re breaking up, I think I am in a dead zone.” And for a Jay Leno moment, “no roaming charges.” Did you hear the story about the man frantically speaking into his cell phone: “My wife is pregnant and her contractions are only two minutes apart!” “Is this her first child?” the doctor asked. “No, you idiot!” the man replied. “This is her husband!” I can’t verify this next story or not, but it all started with a phone call to the Florida Department of Agriculture. A farmer was told he could get paid for not raising hogs by the government. So he called the Dept. of Agriculture, and they suggested he write a letter and explain to them what he wanted. The letter read: My friends, Arnie and Jessica, over in Bartow, received a check the other day for $1,000 from the government for not raising hogs. So, I want to go into the “not raising hogs” business myself next year. What I want to know is, in your opinion, what is the best type of farm not to raise hogs on, and what is the best breed of hogs not to raise? I want to be sure that I approach this endeavor in keeping with all government policies. I would prefer not to raise Razor Back hogs, but if that is not a good breed not to raise, then I can just as easily not raise Yorkshires or Durocs. As I see it, the hardest part of this program will be keeping an accurate inventory of how many hogs I haven’t raised. My friend Arnie is very excited about the future of this business. He has been raising hogs for 20 years and the most he ever made was $420 in 1978, until this year, when he got your check for $1,000 for not raising hogs. If I can get $1,000 for not raising 50 hogs, will I get $2,000 for not raising 100 hogs? I plan to operate on a small scale at first, holding myself down to about 4,000 “not raised” hogs, which will give me $80,000 income the first year. Then I can buy a real big boat and a cottage on Lake Marion. Now another thing: these hogs I will not raise will not eat 100,000 bushels of corn. I understand that you also pay farmers for not raising corn and wheat. Will I qualify for payments for not raising wheat and corn not to feed the 4,000 hogs I am not going to raise? I want to get started not feeding as soon as possible, as this seems to be a good time of the year to not raise hogs and grain. I am also considering the “not milking cows” business, so please send me any information on that also. In view of these circumstances, I understand that the government will consider me totally unemployed, so I plan to file for unemployment and food stamps as well. Be assured that you will have my vote in the coming elections. Thank you, Jack & Arlene PS: Would you please notify me when you plan to distribute more free cheese? Until next month, remember to make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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By Melissa Nichols
The 2014-2015 Polk County Cattlemen’s Sweetheart is no stranger to the cattle industry. If you have sold or bought cattle at Cattlemen’s livestock auction you have probably met Hailey Tomkow. As many would say she was literally born and raised right there in the barn! Hailey is not just a pretty face with a good business sense who wants to be an inspiration to the youth around her, she is also a college student, a Christian and a hard working cowgirl! She is as well rounded as a young girl can possibly be. When she isn’t working the desk at the auction, she is doing homework or slappin’ on her boots and gear to go round up cows all over the county, helping her dad, Dave Tomkow and her uncle Mike Tomkow. Hailey is very excited about the upcoming year. She plans on learning even more about the cattle industry from different management practices to different breeds and their individual needs. She has plans to hopefully start “field days” which will in a sense be a mini version of the Florida Cattlemen’s Convention. With these field days she is hoping to continue to grow and enrich her own knowledge as well as the knowledge of the local cattle ranches, she hopes to have different vendors and speakers present. She is quickly learning that no two cowboys are alike, no two cows are alike and no two ranches are alike. She is eager to learn everything she can about the cattle industry as a whole. She is currently attending Polk State College and hopes to go on to University of Florida’s Animal Science 24
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photo by Connie Westerfeld CD photography
program once she graduates with her AA from PSC. She plans to focus on the Beef Industry side of animal sciences. Upon meeting and getting to know Hailey I quickly realized she enjoys getting her nails done and being pampered but she is also hard working and not afraid to get her hands dirty. Although she enjoys getting dressed up and looking pretty, she works right alongside her dad, uncle and whoever else is there, and she really knows her stuff when it comes to the cattle industry. She is honest and loyal. She is true to herself and holds her head high. She is not ashamed of wearing old boots and spurs and chasing a cow down a lane if she needs to. Hailey is proud to drive a 4 wheel drive F250 but she had to add a little of “herself” to it and she did that with her pink “cowcatcher” (brush guard) on the front of it. Hailey is a great example for the young girls who look up to her and an amazing young leader for the association. She sees this opportunity as a challenge and she loves a good challenge. Hailey has never been one to stray away from something new and she was a born leader. Hailey is a very honest person who values hard work and integrity and plans to set an example this year by displaying just that, honesty, hard work and integrity. I am excited and grateWWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
photos above by Melissa Nichols
ful that as the Cattlemen’s Sweetheart this year, Hailey will proudly show the younger generation her work ethic and that she is proud to be a cowgirl. Hailey recently helped out at the Florida Fat Steer, “Spring fling breakout show.” It was her first official appearance as the incumbent Polk County Cattlemen’s Sweetheart. She truly enjoyed spending the weekend with youth from around the state of Florida who are active in raising and showing beef breed cattle. Although this may have been her first time being at a cow show, Hailey was quickly able to see the difference and similarities to raising feedlot cattle and show animals. Hailey is looking forward to representing Polk County at the Florida Cattlemen’s Convention in Marco Island this June as she competes for the Florida Cattlemen’s Sweetheart. She is looking forward to meeting the other county sweethearts and getting to know them better. Hailey is grateful to the association for giving her this opportunity and can’t wait to see what the year brings.
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Fresh From Florida: Nurturing Success. Growing the Future.
Long & Scott Farms, Inc. Scott Family Growing great produce since 1963 Fresh From Florida Members since 2002 “Throughout four generations, we continue to grow sweet gourmet corn, pickle cucumbers, kale, watermelon, red, green and savory cabbage.” “We greatly appreciate all that Fresh From Florida does to promote our industry, they are a great partner.” Home of Scott’s Maze Adventures fall corn maze and Scott Country Market & Café.
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For more information on member benefits visit FreshFromFlorida.com or call (850) 617-7399.
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Blue Skies and Blueberries at Polk County’s First Blueberry Industry Tour By Justyna Thomson
Blueberry cobbler, blueberry scones, blueberry crisp, blueberry trifle, and the never-ending recipes flash across my computer screen with every blue stained finger tap. A whole day among blueberries can convince you that you should make everyone of those mouthwatering recipes. A full tour-van chauffeured the Farm to Plate Blueberry Tour this past April 11 for Polk County’s very first blueberry industry tour. That morning, everyone met at The Shady Oaks Fruit Farm on the western-outskirts of Lakeland, while the dew on this 10-acre picturesque farm dried in the warm sun. Mary Beth Henry, the University of Florida IFAS Extension Agent for Small Farms in Polk County, greeted everyone with a tour folder containing a schedule and valuable resource documents. She directed everyone to a full breakfast table and expressed how excited she was about the program’s first attempt at Agri-tourism, a unique combination of Florida’s two strongest industries. This growing strategy attracts visitors for the purpose of education, enjoyment, or hands-on involvement in farm activities. At the same time, it promotes rural culture and provides a new source for additional farm revenue. Blueberry muffins, hot coffee, and tour folder in hand, we gathered among shade trees draped in Spanish moss that tower over the mirror like stocked pond. Our backdrop of rows and rows of more than 26,000 blueberry bushes were ready for their April to May picking season. During this time, Shady Oak Farm offers their berries for both UPick and wholesale, and they also grow various types of vegetables throughout the growing year, both in soil and hydroponically. Various farm activities for visitors and tours are tailored to both children and adults, to the specific interests, and length of experience desired. Areas of instruction from knowledgeable instructors include plant propagation, fertilization, planting, insect control and harvesting. 28
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On this day, tour participants attended for pleasure, as well for business insight. “I’m interested in learning about the blueberry business in Florida,” said Joe Ramirez from Bartow. The passionate farm manager, Retta Baucom, had plenty of insight to share. Specifically she was excited about how introducing U-pick generated additional income of approximately $55,000 in five weeks for their farm. “You learn something new everyday. But if you fail, you just get up and try again the next day. Every morning you have the chance to redeem yourself,” laughs Retta, while handing out white pails for us to pick from the six different blueberry varieties grown here. “The darker, the riper,” the farm’s retired manager, Marlen Goodridge, shared some valuable tips. “They do not ripen once picked.” And so I rolled up the cuffs of my jeans, and shuffled off quickly from bush to bush in the damp grass. The bushes and berries were all dry, perfectly at eye-level, and ready for easy picking. One in the pail, two in the mouth. One in the pail, two in the mouth. They’re wonderfully sweet right off the pesticide free bushes. The tour group indulged in a different form of blueberries at lunchtime in Davenport. Blueberry wine was tasted at the True Blue Winery and Bistro, with a delicious lightly curried and sweet Chicken Salad on a fresh croissant with fruit garnish. If you’re not drooling yet, on weekends they fire up the outdoor brick oven to cook pizzas, salmon, and wood fire steaks. Now how did a blueberry farm that started 6-years ago become a successful winery and bistro? “This sure wasn’t on our Bucket List,” laugh owners, Howard and Fatima Gill. You can’t help share in their excitement as they tell you about their business challenges and encouraging ventures. “We’re always playing with something different and always trying something new.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
The wine was an innocent experiment. Fatima started with a home kit that contained a 5-gallon bucket and 12 pounds of her own blueberries. After a couple months of fermentation, the first 20 bottles of wine were produced and were a hit. Ten months later, 25-gallon containers were moved into a new building where 10,000 bottles are now produced. “But we really are just a small ma and pa operation,” explain the enthusiastic couple. “So far we’re still having fun.”
The tour shuffled past state-of-the-art equipment processing blueberries, where they are gently sorted, analyzed, weighed, packaged, labeled, and boxed ready for transport to your local stores. Of course no one left empty handed and was allowed to fill their own clear containers with rushing blueberries. Ironically none of my blueberries lasted long enough to be baked into a scrumptious pastry. They were all eaten by the time I could decide on the recipe.
The Gills built their Davenport blueberry farm piece-by-piece, harvesting their sweet berries by hand. Howard blasts off his signal horn to ward off Cedar Waxwing and reveals, “I moved here when I was 5-years old from Ohio. I’m kind of a content kind of guy and I haven’t gone far.” Fatima and Howard will soon celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary. What is their relationship secret while working so closely together you wonder? “I get fired by my husband or I quit. Then we apologize.” The tour’s last stop was a chillier experience inside Wm. G. Roe & Sons, a multi-generation family owned packinghouse in Winter Haven that has been in business since 1927. With four generations of experience in Florida agriculture they understand its rigors and challenges, and are well suited to resolve the obstacles confronting growers. “I’m a grower as well. So I can talk to other growers,” says Bill Roe the VP and General Manager of Blueberry Operations who shares a vast amount of insight about the very elastic blueberry market. “Florida has a unique attribute of a three to four week time period where no other place in the world grows blueberries.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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They’re not just from Georgia anymore! By Ginny Mink
In previous years Florida was well known as a citrus growing state and while Florida is still a big hub in the citrus industry, significant health problems have created a massive decline in production. There are two main culprits in cahoots to destroy citrus as we know it: citrus canker and citrus greening. Canker has some potential to be dealt with but greening, well, that’s a whole other story! In fact, the greening that has overtaken many groves is not only decreasing citrus production by 30%, it’s even putting some grove owners out of business. However, farmers are a resilient breed, they are not the kind that take a beating and run, tail-between-the-legs, boo-hooing all the way home. No, they suck it up and figure out new paths to take with their land and their time. That’s where the newest stone fruit on the Florida front comes in: peaches. They’re not just from Georgia anymore! I guess the next question is, why peaches? I know my Pappaw would have asked that question since he was from Georgia (and proud of it) and that, according to his perspective, “s’ where peaches are from.” Who in the world would have imagined Floridians growing these fuzzy delicacies? That honor goes to the University of Florida (UF)! In fact, the stone fruit breeding program was initiated in 1952 and has been going strong ever since. The concept was that if possible, UF would develop stone fruit that could do well in subtropical conditions while bearing fruit ahead of all other southeastern producers. This goal is being achieved in more ways than its original visionary, Dr. Ralph Sharpe, ever dreamed. There are currently more than thirty Florida varieties of peaches available thanks to all the research and determination found in the stone fruit breeding program at UF. Each 32
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variety has its own chill unit requirement; that just means that it has to be exposed to a certain number of hours at a temperature below 45˚F and above 32˚F. Higher chill units are for areas of northern Florida whereas the farther south the planting occurs, the lower the chill units. This is an important factor when considering peach planting. Clint Updike, owner of Sunny Florida Peach Company, has had some experience in this new field and was able to offer valuable insight. He got interested in growing peaches when he took a trip to Brazil for the sake of learning more about citrus greening. He told us, “In ‘08 I went down to Brazil to check out the greening situation. I realized we were going to have to find an alternative crop for citrus. That’s how I got into the peach business. I was losing growers to citrus greening and I was seeing production go down. Basically I knew that we’d have to do something to utilize the land so I started looking into peaches and started recommending peaches to other growers and all. I realized we’re going to be in trouble, here in Florida in years to come, with citrus greening. For me, looking for alternative crops that my growers can plant and utilize the irrigation system that was already implanted, well, the peaches was the perfect pick basically because peaches are the same kind of setting as citrus. We can utilize the irrigation system that was already there in the citrus groves, just take the citrus out and put peaches in.” Clint assured us that like most things, it’s not as easy as it sounds. There is definitely a learning curve. It has taken him quite a few years to figure out how to get bigger fruit. He said, “It wasn’t just get in WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
there, plant a tree and go on with it. I mean it was a lot of heartache, tears; a lot of upsets along the way. Our first three years were tough. We’re learning and we finally got a good feel for it now, a real good feel for it. It’s not as easy as you would think it would be. From thinning the tree, to pruning the tree, everything is so different. This peach thing is really risky. I had probably about 20 acres that’s got cold damage; that cut my crop in half. I had 30 acres that bloomed way too early this year and that’s not good.” Certainly there are pitfalls with any new venture. However, Clint says he’s, “picking peaches and selling peaches.” He shared that his company manages and maintains roughly 300 acres of peach groves throughout central Florida. Thusly he recommended the UFOne (250 chill units), UFSun (100 chill units) and the UFBest (100 chill units); these are the varieties he has had success with. However, he is currently experimenting with the UFGems (100-150 chill units). He concluded by telling us, “I’ve been growing peaches for almost five years now. It’s a good fit for old citrus land. I’m growing peaches that compete with Georgia size peaches and North Carolina size peaches. The only competition we have is Chile and then Georgia comes in after us. There’s nothing up north so we’ve learned that we can ship these peaches north, and they love them up there!” Thusly there’s a market and a manager for peaches if you’re interested! WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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• Agriculture
• Operating
deed restrictions dealing with landscape issues; pruning practices; • Youth Steer Projects Expenses problem such as invasive, non-native plants; pesticide and ferPhoto byplants Ron O’Connor – Farm Credit • Residential • Livestock tilization practices; plantFlorida nutritional deficiencies; mulch application; Farm Credit of Central Directors, John Langford (L), Keith Property • Equipment and irrigation system issuesStidham including frequency timing ofcheck appliMixon (Center) and Lewis (Right) hold and an oversized • Hunting & • Crop Insurance cations. Otherthe frequent areas ofininterest citedrefunds, by communities particisymbolizing $145 million patronage or profit-sharpating inRecreational the FFL Community Outreach have ing, the cooperative’s board of Association directors has declaredProgram since 1988. Sharing Properties in the association’s profits can significantly reduce the cost included stormwater pond best management practices, dealing with of fundscaused to its Member/Borrowers. erosion by stormwater runoff and questions involving reclaimed water. Evaluations and recommendations are based on science-based research from UF/IFAS. In addition to site evaluations, the Community Association Outreach Program offers onsite presentations about the FFL principles. OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
1-866-245-3637
The FFL Community Association Outreach Program is a free resource for HOAs and other community associations to provide for guidance www.farmcreditcfl.com in instituting sustainable landscape practices, reviewing landscaperelated covenants working landscape maintenance contracEligible Farmand Credit ofwith Central Florida Members tors. FFL in has$3.5 had several success stories withRefund communities that adoptShare Million Patronage ed FFL practices from which they were able to see reduced water conFarm Credit Central Chairman of the Contact Board, David sumption and of water utilityFlorida and maintenance costs. me at J.the Stanford, a Winter citrusService, grower,813-744-5519 announced thex associaHillsborough CountyGarden Extension 54142, if tion’s eligible Member/Borrowers will benefit from patronage rethese services would benefit of your$3.5 homeowner or condominium associfunds, or profit-sharing, Million, significantly ation. lowering their cost of borrowing. Farm Credit of Central Florida is a Member-Owned cooperative lending funds to ranchers, For more information environmental topics, growers, farmers, and ruralon homeowners sincehorticulture 1917. Eligible Memcontact your local County Service. bers will receive their patronage refundExtension 100% in cash. Additional information on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ “The refund a reward to our Members for their loyalty http:/is/floridayards.org, http://fyn.ifas.ufl.edu and can bepatronage accessed at and is proof positive of WaterMatters.org. our adherence to cooperative principles. TheThe patronage refund is Landscaping™ a critical component of theAssociation Farm Credit Florida-Friendly Community Advantage,” Outreach Stanford Program said. is sponsored by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Hillsborough and “This strong patronage refund continues thethe tradition of Putting PolkProfits Boards Commissioners andpleased the Southwest our in of ourCounty Members’ Pockets. I am to reportFlorida 100% Waterwill Management District. of this patronage refund be paid in cash and represents a return of over 16% of earned interest. The resilience and perseverance of our Farm Credit Members through one of the most devastating depressions since the 1930s has helped our association to grow and prosper,” said Reggie Holt, Farm Credit of Central Florida, President & CEO. Since 1988, Farm Credit of Central Florida’s board of directors has declared patronage refunds exceeding $145 million. The coop’s service area spans from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic coast serving 13 central Florida counties including, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Sumter, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Volusia, and Brevard. For perspective, the $145 Million would pay the entire Tampa Bay Rays team payroll for two and a half seasons, buy 2,400 John Deere Model 613D tractors, or 15 Lear Jets! Stretched end to end, 145 million dollars would stretch from Lakeland to Los Angeles almost six times, or halfway around the globe at the equator! WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
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Hazel’s Blueberry Pickin’ Birthday Party By Ginny Mink My two year old has passed that milestone and joined the ranks of other rambunctious toddlers. As of the writing of this piece she is now…3! I can only hope that her voyage in the land of three year olds will be a far quieter and emotionally calmer one than the now charted territory of the terrible twos! I’m not saying that my child is heinous, though she has her moments. I’m just hoping that with another year under her immature belt she will work her way out of the headstrong temper tantrum theatrics she’s prone to. All that revealed to you, I have to admit I am quite proud of the fact that she refrained from such drama during this month’s Meet the Minks experience. I suspect though that this is due in part to the fact that her birthday party coincided with the event. We chose to enter the world of u-picks this month. In so doing we landed upon Shady Oaks Blueberry Farm, over on Shady Oaks Drive East. I’d spoken with Retta Baucom, the manager there, a few months prior and had been informed that u-picks would open in April. Interestingly enough, the best day for us to do the piece was on the 26th. Perhaps that’s not interesting to you, but it is to me since it’s my darling Hazel’s birthday. Therefore, I got a bee-in-my-bonnet, as my Pappaw used to say, and thought it might be a good idea to expose Hazel’s friends to some agriculture as well. I had no idea if Retta would go for it but to my amazement and joy she was enthusiastic about the idea. Little did I know that Shady Oaks Blueberry Farm offers parties, classes, baby showers and wedding accommodations! April 26 was quickly upon the Minks and with our Facebook and text invitations rsvp’ed we met our friends at Shady Oaks. We were thrilled by the setup! What a beautiful piece of property! They’d prepared a small pop-up tent for us and a planting table, plus tables at which to sit. Retta provided the children with cucumber seeds and taught them how to plant them using pine mulch. The kids got dirty quick, but they were less troubled by that than we were. Next Retta gave them each a bucket with a line on it showing them just how far they could fill it with blueberries. We were keeping them to a pound each. However, she was sweet enough to tell them they were able to eat as many as they wanted while they picked. The gleam in these wee-ones’ eyes was nearly tangible. My eldest, Jaidyn (he’s 10) quickly discovered that he could squeeze his way in between some pretty tight rows. “Mom!” He kept hollering to me as I was trying to keep my eye on Hazel who was rapidly discovering the purple and dark blue ones nearer the centers of the bushes. “Mom!” He called again so I responded, and with glee he held up a quarter sized blueberry, “Look at this! They’re all over in here!” Now, this was Jaidyn’s first picking experience, mine too, and I have to tell you it did my heart good to see him get so excited about work! However, I was a little bothered when he got truly pitbull-ish with his sister when she tried to snag a “big one” from his bucket. Of course she cried, she’s good at that, and then he was forced, by his mother, to relent. He got back in my good graces though when
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we discovered that Hazel’s bucket wasn’t nearly full enough and he volunteered to go pack to picking, I think he really enjoyed it and that’s awesome. We traversed the fields for a good 45 minutes at least, stopping to carefully choose purple and dark blue berries. Sometimes Hazel would grab one off a bush, examine it and say, “Yuck!” and throw it down. Of course I got on to her about being wasteful until I discovered a spider web on one I was about to toss into my own mouth. I didn’t throw it down, I put it in her basket – we were going to wash them later, right? - But I understood the desire to do so. All around us we could hear the delighted squeals of children finding the “big ones” or declaring, “This one’s huge!” Of course, Retta had informed me that a large portion of the ripe ones were between nickel and quarter sized which was so incredible given the tee-tiny ones you’re used to getting at the store. Hazel was very focused on the job at hand, it was like she was a little pro. She picked for a long time before she began to sample the merchandise and in fact, she did most of her blueberry eating back at the picnic tables while she waited for the other kids to return with their stashes. We have heard from several of the parents that, “I picked blueberries!” was the sentence on repeat for the day. It’s amazing to see agriculture touch the lives of children that aren’t typically exposed to it. Retta told me that the questions our group of kids asked were “so adult” and that they impressed her with what they wanted to know. It was because of their questions that she added a viewing and sampling of her seven year old cabbage collard, which by the way, is the oddest looking plant I’d ever seen. My best friend, Susan’s, youngest son, Cameron, when offered a taste said matter-of-factly and a little bit disgusted, “I’m not eating leaves!” However, several of the kids did eat them and one girl, Emma, took a picture with a cabbage-leafvisiting ladybug. Near the end of the experience the kids were taken to the greenhouse and given sugarcane stalks to plant at home. They were also given blueberry clippings and taught how to, hopefully, grow them as well. Hazel had a most excellent time, Zeke, who’ll be one in a week or two, got to taste blueberries for the first time and man, you should have been there to see the look on his face. As you know, I’m sure, some blueberries can bite back! I wish I could convey to you what an awesome time we had there, and how fantastic it is to know that not only did my Minks get to meet the blueberry picking world, so did fourteen other kids! Wow! If you ever think you might want to try out blueberry u-picks, I know there are some that are more heavily advertised and perhaps even some that are cheaper, but I highly doubt they can compare to the sweetness found in Retta at Shady Oaks. Give her a call (863) 512 1547.
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AT PLANTING Power Blend with bulk liquid fertilizer
80.23 tons/acre
77.61 tons/acre
Control Std fertilizer protocol
Treated 25% fertilizer reduction
• In furrow • Drip • Injection • 1/2 lb/acre Every 2-4 weeks in soil - ¼ lbs/acre Every 2-4 weeks foliar - ¼ lbs/acre
Pathway’s microbial products & solutions function to create bio-chemical pathways to convert nutrients like only bacteria can. Bacteria can enable a plant to achieve its genetic potential, optimizing the performance of fertilizer. Key benefits from Pathway’s microbial products for Agriculture include: • Increase yields and decreased production loses • Uniform plant growth and fruiting for increased product marketability • Enhanced color, better taste and longer shelf life • Increase plant tolerance to the damaging affects of environmental extremes, disease and other plant pressures • BMP compliance with balanced soil biology
Pathway BioLogic | 111 E. Tever Street, Plant City, Florida | 813.719.7284 www.PathwayBioLogic.com WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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RecipeS Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Chef Justin Timineri
Florida Sweet Corn with Southern Barbecue Butter DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven broiler on high. In small saucepan over low heat, combine barbecue sauce and butter until melted and smooth.
2. Place sweet corn in a medium-sized baking dish and pour barbecue mixture over sweet corn. Broil sweet corn, 4 inches from broiler, being sure to watch the whole time.
3. Turn and baste the sweet corn until golden. Serve warm
INGREDIENTS
Ingredients
1/4 cup your favorite barbecue sauce 1/4 stick butter 4 ears fresh Florida sweet corn, shucked kosher salt to taste fresh ground pepper to taste
Sweet Corn & Black Bean Enchiladas 1.
1/2 cup onion, chopped 1 cup fresh corn kernels 2 bell peppers, diced 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 cup salsa, your favorite kind 1 can low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained 10 (6-inch) corn tortillas
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided 1 can enchilada sauce 1 tablespoon vegetable oil pan-release cooking spray kosher salt to taste freshly ground pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray an 11x7-inch (2-quart) baking dish with pan-release cooking spray. Add vegetable oil to a medium pan. Cook onion, corn and bell peppers over medium high heat for 3 minutes. Add cumin, salsa and black beans and continue to cook for two awith salt and pepper to taste. Remove pan from heat and let cool slightly.
an even amount of the filling mixture in each of the 10 tortillas. Using 1 cup of shredded cheese, 2. Place evenly distribute it on top of each of the 10 tortillas. Carefully roll up each stuffed tortilla, and place them seam side down in the sprayed baking dish. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas, spreading to coat all tortillas. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese.
3. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbly around edges. Remove enchiladas from oven and let cool slightly. Serve enchiladas with diced Florida avocado, salsa and sour cream
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Florida
Fava Beans
By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
Fresh Florida fava beans are as delicious as they are nutritious. Also known as broad beans, Windsor beans, horse beans, English beans, and field beans, fava beans are harvested between January and June in Florida. The plump green pods resemble a large green bean, but with flatter, larger beans inside the pod. Each pod contains four to eight light green seeds. Their flavor ranges from sweet to bitter, and is smoother, sweeter, and richer than most other beans. While popular in Europe and the Mediterranean, fava beans are becoming more popular in the United States as well. High in protein, this legume can be eaten raw or cooked and is easy to incorporate into any meal. NUTRITION PROFILE Rich in fiber, nutrients, and protein, fava beans are bursting with nutrition. Naturally free of cholesterol and saturated fat, and low in calories and fat, these legumes are a fantastic vegetarian source of lean protein. Fava beans are very high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, vitamins A and C, the B vitamins, and folate, iron, and phosphorus. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one cup of boiled fava beans (170 g) contains 177 calories, 13 g protein, 1 g fat, 33 g carbohydrate, and 9 g of dietary fiber. It also provides 44% of the Daily Recommended Value (%DV) for folate, 37% for dietary fiber, 36% for manganese, 23% for protein, 22% for copper, 21% for phosphorus, 18% for magnesium, 14% for iron, 13% for potassium, 11% for zinc and thiamin, and plentiful amounts of other valuable nutrients, such as riboflavin, calcium, niacin, vitamin K, and selenium. Folate: Essential vitamin at any age Florida fava beans are a great source of the B vitamin folate, a vitamin that can reduce the risk of birth defects of the brain and spinal cord (neural tube defects) in the fetus. Pregnant women should consume a diet high in folate, and eating fava beans and other legumes, vegetables, and fruits every day can help. Folate is also essential for growth and development, and plays a key role in DNA formation. Its heart-healthy benefits come from its ability to lower homocysteine levels in the body. Homocysteine is an amino acid in the blood that is correlated with heart disease. Additionally, low levels of folate have been linked with low energy levels, depression and even memory impairments. So it’s an essential vitamin for everyone, in addition to its significant importance for the developing fetus. A one cup serving of fava beans provides almost half of your daily folate requirements. Thiamin: For Good Memory Fava beans are a good source of thiamin, also known as vitamin B1. One cup provides 11% of your daily requirement for this B vitamin. This nutrient is involved in enzymatic reactions relating to energy production and is also essential for cognitive function. Thiamin is required for the synthesis of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory. Protein: For many cellular functions Protein is the second most abundant substance in the body, after water, and plays an important role on many levels. Adequate protein intake is not typically a concern in the Western diet, but an emphasis on plant-based rather than meat-based proteins is associated with WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
better health and decreased incidence of certain cancers. Fava beans are an excellent source of protein. A one cup serving provides almost a quarter of your daily needs. Many important components of the body are comprised of protein, including antibodies that fight infection, hormones that control a variety of physiologic functions, and enzymes that increase the rate of chemical reactions in the body. Protein is also a major source of energy and required for the maintenance and repair of tissues. Fiber: For regularity and heart health Florida fava beans are high in both insoluble and soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber is important in regulating a healthy digestive tract and preventing constipation or diarrhea. Soluble fiber is especially important in its cholesterol reducing abilities, especially that of low density lipoprotein (LDL), the “bad” type. Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases, by lowering blood cholesterol levels and slowing the progression of heart disease in high-risk individuals. As with many other legumes, fava beans contain a significant amount of dietary fiber, which can help with weight loss by helping you stay full 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. A one cup serving of fava beans provides over one third of your daily fiber requirement. How to Select and Store Choose fava beans with fresh, firm, green pods. The smaller beans are younger and more tender. They are best eaten right away, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in a tightly sealed plastic bag. Fava beans can also be dried, frozen, or canned. Dried beans can be stored for up to one year in a cool place, such as a cabinet. How to Enjoy Young fava beans can be eaten raw or cooked with the pod, or the beans can be popped out of the pod and eaten out-of-hand. Surrounding each bean is a whitish to light green shell that some cooks remove before use, though this step is not necessary. • Combine fresh fava beans with Pecorino cheese and salami • Boil fava beans then blend into a dip with spices and yogurt • Cook beans with onion and tomato sauce • Use in place of chickpeas in hummus • Mix into a pasta dish with olive oil and other vegetables • Sautee whole pods in olive oil for a crunchy, savory snack • Serve cooked fava beans alongside braised or roasted chicken • Braise with pancetta or bacon and onions • Toss cooked fava beans into any vegetable salad for a protein boost • Add cooked fava beans to chili, chowder, or any soup Enjoy delicious Florida fava beans in their peak season today. Add delicious flavor and extra protein and fiber to any dish, dip, or stew. SELECTED REFERENCES http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/fava-beans-nutritionselection-storage http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mv017 http://www.florida-agriculture.com
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
May 2014
41
Naturally Amazing Activities
By Sean Green
Cordage Crafts
2
Directions:
1
Fold the cordage in half
3
Keyring Paracord items have become pretty popular lately. You can find wrist bands, key chains, and ankle bands at seemingly every gas station. The items are rather attractive and they have a durable, earthy feel to them. The practical benefit these items offer is the utility of having cordage should you ever need it. Many of the items sold in stores however, are not designed with utility in mind and a great deal of effort would be necessary to untie the knots before having usable cord. This month we will make a cordage item that is attractive and practical. The knot used is called a highwayman’s hitch, and when tied in succession is an attractive and sturdy knot that can be released with one quick tug.
Material: Cordage 550 paracord boot string hemp twine, etc...
Twist the top to form a loop so the left strand crosses over the right strand.
4
Push the right side strand up through the top loop / Pull left strands to tighten * Notice the top loop now leans to the left Whichever side the loop leans towards that’s the side you bring pull through the * The bottom loop will be the “Loop” end of ei- top loop. ther a wrist band or key chain, adjust the size appropriately Push the left side strand up through the top loop / Pull right strand to tighten * Notice the top loop now leans to the right Push the right side up through the back of the top loop, now you should have two loops (top and bottom) Holding both loops, tighten the left strand
5
Repeat this process until the desired length is attained (or you run out of bootlace) Finish up with a simple overhand knot
Attach a key ring to the top loop for a keychain / If a wrist band is made, double up the overhand knot so it barely fits through the loop
813-767-4703 301 South Collins Street, Suite 101, Plant City, Florida 33563
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May 2014
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A Closer Look
By Sean Green
A Closer Look: The Yellow Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium)
Early last month, Mazda announced a recall of an estimated 42,000 vehicles because spiders may weave a web in the evaporative canister vent house. Affected models include the Mazda 6 sedans manufactured from Sept. 14, 2009 through May 2, 2011 with the 2.5L engine. The recall was initiated because if a spider web blocks the airflow, there is an increased potential for the fuel tank to crack and possibly ignite. None of the official recall notices include much information about the spider species instigating the recall, however, Mazda spokesman Jeremy Barnes accurately reported the “Yellow Sac Spider” is attracted to the hydrocarbons in gasoline and can find its way into the fuel tank. There are important characteristics of the Yellow Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium) that arguably should have been reported. A closer look at the Yellow Sac Spider will, at the very least, give you an idea of what’s under the hood. The Yellow Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium) is part of a larger family of nearly 400 species worldwide. Members of the Cheiracanthium family are documented beneficial predators providing a valuable service to Florida’s Agriculture Industry. Eggs are laid in June and July in small silk tubular “sacs”, hence the name Sac Spider. The female will enclose herself in the protective sac with the eggs and remain with her brood until after their first molt. Cheiracanthium do not build a nest to capture their prey, but rather, are nocturnal hunters that roam about at night in search of food much like the Wolf Spider (Lycosidae) that most Floridians are used to seeing at night. Each day the Yellow Sac Spider builds a new retreat for their diurnal rest. Of the variety of Cheiracanthium in Florida, there are only two that are of medical significance, these are Cheiracanthium mildei and Cheiracanthium inclusum. Both can be found all year in Florida and adults are most prominent from April to November. C. mildei is a species introduced from Europe during the 1940s and is reported to have reduced the population of citrus black fly in Florida 52-66% according to a 2005 study. C. mildei is more aggressive than its native counterpart and has been observed biting without provocation. This species is most often found in manmade structures and lays eggs almost exclusively indoors, often in the corners of walls where the ceiling meets but can occasionally be found under rocks near the home. The young spiderlings will remain in their protective sac during the day and venture out cautiously at night for hunting. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
C. inclusum is our native species and is by far the most studied. Its prey includes a large variety of insects and spiders, often much larger than itself. Its bite is more destructive than that of C. mildei with fangs that can easily penetrate human skin. Unlike its introduced cousin, C. inclusum is usually found outside and consequently most bites are incurred in the field or in the garden during the warm humid months of summertime. Their venom does contains a cytotoxin (cell killing) similar to that of the brown recluse, however, studies have not reproduced significant necrotic damage in either species and the small necrotic wound that could be reproduced healed much faster than that of the wound caused by the brown recluse. Although both species are capable of delivering a necrotic wound, these spiders are not deadly. There is enough evidence to warrant caution with this species. Although it does have the potential to inflict a serious wound, we can say the same for other common and venomous spiders such as the brown widow (Latrodectus geometricus) and even more so for the toxins commonly used in pest control. The Yellow Sac Spider remains one of the most beneficial species in agriculture, especially significant for the citrus crops. This species is pretty abundant but seldom noticed. The next time you fill up for gas, look around in building corners that form an interior right angle, you may be surprised to discover how abundant these spiders really are. Because we know Cheiracanthium is a nocturnal species, they can very easily be eliminated by vacuuming them up during the daytime when they are at rest in their retreat sac. Disposal of the vacuum bag will be necessary to prevent re-infestation. In the field, C. inclusum can be managed with sticky traps set to capture the spiders when they hunt nocturnally. Field observations have concluded that the female Cheiracanthium are attracted to sticky traps that contain the parapheromone trimedlure, a powerful lure for the Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata), a common food source. The Yellow Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium) is a more likely candidate to blame for the frequent misdiagnosis of Brown Recluse bites and should be approached with caution though not necessarily fear.
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
May 2014
43
100
Celebrating 100 Years of Extension
Florida EXtension A century of serving florida
By Commissioner of Agriculture, Adam Putnam This year, Florida’s land grant universities – the University of Florida and Florida A&M University - celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Smith-Lever Act of 1914, which created the Cooperative Extension Service. It was a time when rural communities were suffering from hunger and malnutrition, and the extension service was created to help counter those challenges by converting the research findings of a land grant university into practical knowledge that could benefit surrounding communities. Extension offices were opened up in each of Florida’s 67 counties to provide resources and offer classes, consultations and demonstrations on topics ranging from agriculture to family care. Though our country has changed dramatically over the last century, the chalCommissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam lenges that existed then still remain today, but have taken on new forms. Hunger, for example, is a growing concern as the world’s population is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050. And with that exponential population growth comes the tremendous challenge of feeding more people with fewer resources. With the guidance of science and the transfer of knowledge through the extension service, Florida’s farmers are able to produce more products on less land and using fewer resources. In the coming decades, the extension service will be critical in building on this success to help Florida agriculture meet the demands of our world’s growing population. Meanwhile, Americans still face challenges with proper nutrition, struggling with weight and health issues that result from obesity. In fact, 65 percent of adults in Florida and one in three kids are now considered overweight or obese. In Florida alone, treatment of obesity-related diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and more will cost billions of dollars by 2030. The extension service plays an important role in educating Floridians about health and wellness, such as teaching students where food comes from, informing consumers about nutritional information and providing simple steps to make a healthy meal at a low cost. Only through continued efforts by the extension service and the many other partners involved can we reverse the obesity trend in Florida. For the past century, the extension service’s work has led to drastic improvements in agricultural productivity and efficiency - and our everyday lives for that matter. With the challenges we face moving forward, the mission and importance of the extension service is as relevant as ever. Congratulations to the Cooperative Extension Service on its 100th anniversary, and here’s to many more.
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Bank Owned Real Estate Auction
Three Tracts, 92.24± Acres Selling in Parcels! 10:00am Thursday June 5th • Drive by to Preview Three Tracts, 92.24± Acres Selling in Parcels!
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Tract B
SWC of Rhoden Rd & Lake Buffum Road S, Bartow, FL This beautiful property features frontage on Rhoden Road and Lake Buffum Road East. Enjoy the serenity of living in the country on your own wooded creek, yet still be just a short drive to town. • Selling in Parcels Auction Location: Tract A
29.94± Acre High Elevation Development Tract
Tract C
Aldo Rd, East of Scenic Hwy, Babson Park, FL, Look for Auction Signs! • Ready For Development • 2104± Ft Frontage on Aldo Rd, Babson Park, FL • Additional Access via Fairway Drive. • Fire Hydrants in Place • Selling in Parcels Auction Location: Tract A
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Classifieds
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ANIMALS & NEEDS
MASSEY FERGUSON 210 2wd., diesel tractor. $3,750 Call Alvie. 813-759-8722
CECIL BREEDING FARM Full service thoroughbred farm from foaling to the track. Broodmare care. Investment opportunities. 863-899-9620 ANIMAL CONTROL Complete Nuisance/Destructive Wildlife Removal & Management! Wild hogs, coyotes, raccoons, opossum, armadillo, squirrels, bobcats, etc. (licensed & insured professional Services) 863-287-2311 ANIMAL & BIRDCAGES Equipment serving the fur bearing animal & exotic bird industry! Cages built to order. Wire by roll or foot. (813) 752-2230. Call Don Ammerman. www.ammermans.com Swaps July 13, 2014 and November 30, 2014 CHICKEN MANURE FOR SALE Dry and available immediately! Call Tim Ford or Danny Thibodeau 863-439-3232
HAY EQUIPMENT Vicon RP 1210 hay roller. Vicon 6 ft rotary disc mower, 4 wheel rake. $3,000 firm. Call after 6pm 813-967-3816
NEW MAHINDRA 2516 25hp, 4x4, shuttle shift transmission with loader. 5yr. warranty $10,000. Call Alvie (813)759-8722
JANE BAER REALTY Looking for that mountain getaway home? We have what you are looking for. Check out our website at www.janebaerrealty.com or call us toll free 800-820-7829. We are located in Blairsville GA, North Georgia Mountains!
KITCHEN CABINETS & VANITIES Get quality all wood cabinets for less than the BIG BOX STORES! Call Today! Ask for Blake. 813-752-3378
WINDOW SCREENS We make window screens of all sizes available in different frame colors. Call Ted 813-752-3378
DOORS AND WINDOWS SPECIAL ORDER No upcharge. House & mobile home. Many standard sizes in stock. Call 813-752-3378 Ask for Blake
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NEW DOORS CLOSEOUT SPECIAL!!! $75 to $295. Call Ted today 813-752-3378 MOBILE HOME TUBS Metal brand new in box 54” Mobile Home Tubs Call Ted 813-752-3378 $165.00
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CONTRIBUTING WRITER Write about events in your community. Immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Paid per article. Responsibilities include covering community events and taking pictures. Email your resume to sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com
MAHINDRA 8560 40 actual hrs., 2wd, diesel, 83hp, shuttle shift, warranty. $22,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
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MIS C. NEW HOLLAND Crop Saver Preservative for hay 2, 50 Gal. Drums. $200 each OBO. 813-620-3006 FOR INFORMATION on the first and only patented organic doctor approved Viagra-like effect coffee contact Al at: 813-763-2220.
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46
FOR SALE – 45 ACRES VACANT LAND (Pasco County) 45 acres are comprised of gently rolling hills with big trees & solid ground. A great setting for residential development. To the east of the property is a 60 acre parcel (Lake Gilbert) that adds significant aesthetic value to the 45 acres. Zoning: AR (Agricultural-Rural) Call Heidi Cecil for more information 863-899-9620 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
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2001 KUBOTA B7500 4x4 with box blade, belly mower & loader. 1,064 hours. $8,500 Call Alvie (813)759-8722
HORSE FOR SALE Cremello Grade Gelding. 13 year old any one can ride! $3,000 (813)650-7766
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MORE BANG FOR THE
NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE!
BUCK
Serving our customers with 12 locations New Port Richey
Leesburg
727-842-8618
352-315-1016
6918 US Hwy. 19 New Port Richey, FL 34652
Plant City
2805 SR. 60 West Plant City, FL 33567
1800 US HWY. 441 Leesburg, FL 34748
813-737-1660
Package a fleet of tractors, gators and other equipment together with a 2 or 3 year lease and always have new, worry free equipment with service available from Everglades Farm Equipment fleet of road service technicians.
Okeechobee
820 US Hwy. 98, North Okeechobee, FL 34972
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6782 118th Ave. North Largo, Fl. 33773
727-259-7748
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6150 Orange Ave. Ft. Pierce, FL 34947
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772-461-5568
906 US HWY 301 North Palmetto, FL 34221
941-722-3281
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13295 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470
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561-784-4000
9501 State Road 82 Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-332-5045
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Corporate Headquarters
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775 E. Main St. Immokalee , FL 34142
239-657-4413
2017 N. W. 16TH Belle Glade, FL 33430
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Comming soon 2014 Naples , FL
Since 1963
Some restrictions apply, see dealer for complete details . Some pictured items may have been used for display purposes only. Leases must go through John Deere Financial. With great deals on new tractors and gators all year long, check with your local dealer for additional savings.
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