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LENDING A HAND
President – Dr. Lujean Waters 8750 Shreck Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 537-1495 Lujean.waters@gmail.com
Vice President – Ken Sherrouse 13475 Moore Rd Lakeland, FL 33809-9755 (863) 698-1834 kensherrouse@yahoo.com
Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch PO Box 849 Highland City, FL 33846-0849 (863) 425-112 Justin.bunch@nutrien.com
State Director – Orrin Webb PO Box 202 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 634-6029 owebb@wandwsupply.com
Donald Conroy 3882 Wolfolk Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 412-0790
Stuart Fitzgerald PO Box 1437 Lake Wales, FL 33859 (863) 206-5021 stuartcattlellc@yahoo.com
Kevin Fussell 5125 Fussell Rd Polk City, FL 33868 (863) 412-5876 drfussellranch@gmail.com
Wes Fussell 5010 Barush Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 838-1594 g.wesfussell@gmail.com
Det. Jay Scarborough 1575 Mountt Pisgah Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 860-7731 Jayscarborough5581@outlook. com
Scott Shoupe 6130 Allen Lane Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 581-7593 Scott_shoupe@hotmail.com
James Stice PO Box 460 Highland City, FL 33846 (813) 714-2333 jstice@verizon.net
Dave Tomkow 3305 US Highway 92 E Lakeland, FL 33801-9623 (863) 665-5088 dave@cattlemens1.com
Alternate Standing Committee Chairs: Membership Events- Scott Shoupe
Trade Show- Bridget Stice
Rodeo- Fred Waters PO Box 463 Alturas, FL 33820-0463 (863) 559-7808
Website – Blair Buchanon
Cattlewomen – President, Blair Buchanon 8444 Tom Costine Rd Lakeland, FL 33809 (863) 581-2711 Buckld96@gmail.com
Extension – Bridget Stice PO Box 9005, Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 519-1048 bccarlis@ufl.edu
Sheriff’s Dept. – Lt. Paul Wright 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 557-1741 pw5281@polksheriff.org
Sgt. Tim Sanders 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 656-6119 brusso@polksheriff.org
Warner University –
Abby Crawford 13895 Highway 27 Lake Wales, FL 33859 (863) 638-7248 Abby.crawford@warner.edu
Cover Photos Courtesy of Melissa Nichols
Letter from the Editor
Whew! What a month we have had. That storm we were anxiously waiting for last month at press time, really packed a punch. The flooding was unprecedented. People are still cleaning up debris and I have a feeling we will be seeing piles of it beside the roads for some time. I know city and county officials are doing their best to ensure it gets cleaned up, but the massive amounts will definitely slow down the process.
But all was not terrible. It was so heartwarming to see neighbors jumping in to help neighbors. People that see each other daily with maybe a passing wave, were joining together to help clean up debris, and this was no small task. The massive amounts of rainfall from Hurricanes Debbie, Helene, then Milton, coupled with the extreme winds, didn’t just break trees and limbs, it uprooted many extremely large trees. Our landscape certainly looks different.
This month is the time we set aside to give thanks. Although I say it every year, we should give thanks daily, not just on the Thanksgiving holiday. On this day, we gather together to enjoy a feast and to reflect on and be grateful for what we have. If you know someone who doesn’t have anyone to enjoy this day with, open your home. Invite them in. Share your Thanksgiving with someone who may otherwise be spending it alone.
“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
Until Next Month
Sarah Holt
Publisher/Photography
Karen Berry
Senior Managing Editor/
Associate Publisher
Sarah Holt Sales
Karen Berry
Sarah Holt
De De Floyd
Melissa Nichols
Creative Director/Illustrator
Juan Alvarez
Photography
Karen Berry
Melissa Nichols
Images By Blair
Staff Writers
Al Berry
Sandy Kaster
James Frankowiak
Sean Green
Autum Miller
Contributing
Writers
Wade Osborne
John Dicks
Social Media
Victoria Saunders
In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Polk County businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of the Polk County Catllemen’s Association.
Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909
Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In the Field magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc.
Published by Berry Publications, Inc.
Sarah Holt
It’s Fall Y’all!
Fall is officially here and with that, we hope the end of Hurricane Season! It has been a tough couple of months for many of our Florida Ranchers, however, with any catastrophic event we see the profound sense of community bring our families together. It is in these times that I become extremely grateful to be a part of such an organization as the Polk County Cattlemen’s Association and Florida Cattlemen’s Association. Many of you visited the Hurricane Relief Headquarters at the Ag Center in Bartow where our local and state organizations provided materials and manpower to help those in need. We are so thankful for those who spent long days and countless hours volunteering at the site.
November also means it’s time for our annual Polk County Cattlemen’s Association Fall Supper. Please join us on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Ag Unit Airplane Hangar. The Hangar is located at 4200 Ben Durrance Road in Bartow.
As a result of Hurricane Milton, FEMA is once again occupying the W.H. Stuart Center. The PCSO Ag Unit has generously offered to host us while all regularly scheduled events at the Center are seeking alternate locations.
We will hear from FCA President, Dale Carlton. We will be electing board members. If you would like to nominate yourself or another member of the Association or have questions about serving on the board of directors, please contact the Nominating Committee Chair, Kevin Fussell, at (863) 4125876.
Again this year, the Polk County Cattlewomen will be collecting gifts for children of all ages to be donated to One More Child’s Lakeland Campus for their annual Christmas toy drive. Please consider bringing an unwrapped gift.
We look forward to seeing you on November 14, at 6:30pm Additionally, looking ahead, UF/IFAS will be hosting A South Florida Beef Forage Program, Cattle Management for Women Event in conjunction with Hancock Seed Co on December 12. This educational event will focus on Sprayer Calibration, Forage Testing and Management. Check out their website for the EventBrite link as seating is limited.
Dr. LuJean Waters
Polk County Cattlemens President Heartland Large Animal Services
FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD
‘Cutting-edge science’ from UF/IFAS Extension helps farmer preserve water, other parts of his ecosystem
By Brad Buck | All photos, “Courtesy, Tyler Jones, UF/IFAS photography.” Video and SOTs, “Courtesy, UF/IFAS video.”
For about 20 years, Colin Furness and his family have bred and raised miniature cattle and donkeys, and specialized in getting people started with their own herd of mini livestock. They raise registered Herefords, Florida Cracker cattle and a crossbreed they call “crackerfords.” They also run a herd of commercial cattle and sell pasture-raised beef directly to consumers throughout Central and Southwest Florida.
About 10 years ago, Furness found the invasive tropical soda apple on their 75-acre farm, and he called Jonael Bosques, the director of UF/IFAS Extension Hardee County. Bosques got beetles for him as part of a plan to manage the noxious weed.
That was the beginning of a working relationship between the Furness family and UF/IFAS Extension that now includes preserving water quality and other environmental stewardship. “Jona visited our farm and walked the pastures with us,” said Colin’s son, Dyllan, who co-owns the farm. “He introduced us to soil testing and shared ideas about ways to improve grazing practices. One of the ideas he suggested was to add cross fencing for rotational grazing of cattle.”
Then, with help from Bosques, the Furnesses worked with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to add fencing and solar wells through a cost-share program designed to improve water quality on farms like theirs. Fencing let them establish a rotational system and riparian buffer between their pastures and wetlands.
“When we instituted rotational grazing, we were able to keep the cows out of the wetlands,” said Furness. That means the cattle’s waste doesn’t enter the water, so cleaner water is now coming from the farm and going down the Peace River to the Gulf of Mexico.
Recommendations from Bosques have given what Dyllan Furness calls a “holistic” feel to the farm – and resulted in numerous environmental improvements. One of those improvements is better water quality.
“Our family is concerned about conserving Florida’s environment,” Furness said. “That starts with being good stewards of the land and water. Seasonal and forested wetlands make up a good chunk of our property, where they provide habitat for wildlife and help recharge groundwater. They also improve water quality by slowing and filtering water as it flows off our farm. To promote the integrity of these wetlands, we wanted to exclude our livestock from these areas for most of the year.” Every year or so, Bosques walks the ranch with Furness, who pays heed to Bosques’ science-based recommendations. By about his third visit – in the third year – Bosques started seeing improvements.
“Every time they call, we are ready to help. He and his family take ownership of our suggestions. Not everyone does that,” Bosques said. “I have seen a lot of improvements.”
It goes beyond better water. The Furness farm consists of a balanced ecosystem where wildlife and cattle thrive.
“You see the results of somebody that’s willing to implement what your recommendation is, and that’s been a pretty interesting process,” Bosques said.
He credits Dyllan Furness – and what he calls the “younger generation” -- for taking responsibility for preserving the natural resources of his agricultural operation.
“We want this farm to be here in production for 50 more years, at least, so that older generation has to have that mindset of sharing governance with the incoming generation,” Bosques said.
For a small, family farm, UF/IFAS Extension provides an invaluable service, Furness said.
“We have access to cutting-edge science,” said Furness, who, like many farmers these days, works at it part-time. During the week, he’s the director of communications for an ocean research institute.
THOUGHTS FROM THE HEIFER PEN
Ranchers are the most complainingest group I know. It’s always too hot, too cold, too wet, or too dry. The cattle prices are always too low or not quite as high as they could have been. The hay they got on a deal (after some negotiating) for the winter was good enough, but so and so was crazy to think he could charge the original price for that low quality of hay. When asked how branding or shipping cows went, it always goes well enough except for one stupid cow or one gunsel who shouldn’t be on a horse. In fact, when a rancher says that something was good enough or has no complaints at all, things went quite well actually, one might even dare say perfect.
You might think that ranchers are an ungrateful lot, which isn’t entirely untrue, they could probably, as a whole, benefit from doing thankfulness exercises once a day. But sometimes it appears that they don’t see the good. Which can be easy to do because in agriculture for one good thing that happens or goes according to plan, ten other things go disastrously wrong. Sometimes when everything is going right, ranchers are just waiting for the other boot to drop because it never lasts for long. It’s like ranchers live in crisis mode since the fateful day their dad gives them a real job to do on the ranch. It’s only downhill from there. Sometimes when I was little and my dad would seem especially stressed out and I asked him what was wrong, he would say, “This place is staying together with two pieces of hay string right now.” And if you know anything about ranching, sometimes that wasn’t a far-fetched analogy.
But ranchers do show thankfulness, at least they feel it. Sometimes it isn’t expressed in front of people. Most of the time it is just a prayer that they offer up to God with their exhale before they move on to the next thing. And sometimes the things that a rancher is thankful for may seem small and insignificant, but it’s the small and insignificant seeming things that go right, that keep the ranch from disaster. Or at least are just a small reminder that God hasn’t forgotten the rancher in the midst of their ranching.
By Marisol Tarango
Nothing makes a rancher more thankful than when small little miracles happen when they are out working. Small miracles like when they finally get the feral bull that they darted into the trailer and realize that the dart never went in all the way and the bull wasn’t medicated to begin with. Or when they are trying to pen the crazy, explosive heifers for the first time and it’s the third try to walk them up to the pens and they just finally go through. Or when they are in the middle of a pasture and the truck won’t start, and they give it their last, last ditch effort and it starts. (I’m pretty sure an engine that won’t start will make even the staunchest atheist pray).
There are also big things that ranchers are thankful for. That the storm wasn’t as bad as it was supposed to be or even if it was bad, that the damage wasn’t as bad as it could have been. Or when things go awry while trying to rope cattle and everyone comes out with just scratches when probably some people shouldn’t have been walking out at all, (that will make you stop for a moment and be thankful). Even when people don’t walk away from those things it makes you thankful that it wasn’t you, because just yesterday it could have been you or it could be you tomorrow.
Other times it’s not the things that don’t happen that you are thankful for, but the things that do. Like when a friend comes unexpectedly to drop something off in the evening, but it turns into a late-night visit full of laughter and stories. Or when you are out in the pasture by yourself in the morning and you see a doe grazing while her fawn explores the world around it. Or even practical things like finding a boot that fits you just right. Ranchers may be a little hard and crusty on the outside. When you live a life in the elements and at the mercy of the elements it tends to make you that way. But when you meet the old ranchers and hear their old stories and you wonder why they didn’t crack decades ago, you realize it’s because they were thankful for the little things. They saw a glimmer of hope that told them all was not lost, even if it felt like the ranch was falling apart around them. Little whispers of their Creator saying that he loves them.
NEWS BRIEFS
Compiled by Jim Frankowiak
Check Your Irrigation Timer
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) is reminding residents to check the timers on their irrigation system controllers now that daylight saving time has ended. The time change is a good time to make sure irrigation system timers are set correctly to ensure that the systems operate consistently with year-round water conservation measures. All 16 counties throughout the District’s boundaries are on year-round water conservation measures, with lawn watering limited to twice per week unless your city or county has a different schedule or stricter hours.
Know and follow your local watering restrictions, but don’t water just because it’s your day. Irrigate your lawn when it shows signs of stress from lack of water. Signs of stressed grass include:
• Grass blades are folded in half lengthwise on at least onethird of your yard.
• Grass blades appear blue-gray.
• Grass blades do not spring back, leaving footprints on the lawn for several minutes after walking on it.
Florida Agricultural Sector Asked to Share Impacts of Hurricane
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Economic Impact Analysis Program (EIAP)is conducting a survey for losses and damages associated with Hurricane Milton.
Agricultural producers can complete the survey at go.ufl. edu/MiltonAgImpacts or report information to their local UF/ IFAS Extension office by calling or visiting in person.
2024 Florida Ag Expo Canceled
As a result of the impact Hurricane Milton has had on Florida’s agriculture community, co-sponsors of Florida Ag Expo – the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) at Wimauma in south central Hillsborough County and AgNet Media have decided to cancel the 2024 Florida Ag Expo. The annual event was scheduled to take place at the GCREC on November 7.
District Rescinds Water Shortage Order
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) has rescinded the Modified Phase I Water Shortage Order enacted in November 2023. This action eliminates one-day-per-
week water restrictions for Hillsborough and Pinellas counties; however, Pasco County and the City of Tampa will remain on one-day-per-week watering by local ordinance.
Hurricane Recovery Assistance
Florida agriculture was hit hard by hurricanes within the last few months. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has a range of disaster assistance programs available to Florida ranchers and farmers. For the latest information on USDA recovery efforts, visit the Hurricane Recovery webpage on farmers.gov and https://www.usa.gov/disasters-and-emergencies
Other recovery program information through the Department of Homeland Security (DHA) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is also available by visiting https:// www.fema.gov/disaster/current.
You may also contact your local USDA Service Center. In Hillsborough County, the Service Center is located at 201 South Collins Street, Suite 201, Plant City. Telephone: 813/752-1474.
District Awards Grants to Hillsborough County Schools for Water Resources Education Projects
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) awarded $108,937 in grants to 51 educators within the District as part of the Splash! school grant program. The program provides up to $3,000 per school to enhance student knowledge of freshwater resources in grades K-12.
Splash! grants encourage hands-on student learning through STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) activities as well as engagement of the greater school community through awareness campaigns. Each school district allocates a portion of its annual youth education funding provided by the District to support the Splash! grants in their county.
The District awarded grants to the following schools/teachers in Hillsborough County:
• Heritage Elementary School - Jean Josephson
• Knights Elementary School - Caylee Thompson
• Medical Academy at D.W. Waters - Brittany Loubier-Vervisch
• Newsome High School - Julie Wernicki
• Oak Park Elementary School - Kaylin Schemmel
• Pierce Middle School - Sigrun Ragnarsdottir
• Spoto High School - Robert Lacombe
• Tampa Bay Technical High School - Julie Sackles
• Temple Terrace Elementary School - Naomi Frierson
• Town and Country Elementary School - Krystal Greenberg
• Wharton High School - Christi Atkinson
• Woodmont Charter School - Raina Fiallo
Grants are available to support water education programs and activities that are focused on water cycle basics, freshwater or estuarian ecosystems, water quality and water conservation. For more information, please visit the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/SchoolGrants.
Change is Coming!
Capt. Wade Osborne
So far, we haven’t had typical fall weather here in the Tampa Bay area, but it’s coming. Above-normal temperatures have kept the water in the mid-70s. Usually, by now the water temperature on the grass flats is in the low 70s to upper 60s. Once it reaches those temperatures, which should be by the end of the month, your tactics will need to change.
First, you’ll have to catch bait in deeper water as it leaves the grass flats. I’ve already put one of my deep-water cast nets on my boat in anticipation. I recommend that you do the same unless you plan to buy shrimp before launching your boat.
Right now, catching bait is a breeze on most grass flats so a heavy cast net isn’t needed. The last thing you want to happen one morning is to show up to catch bait and it’s no longer in the shallows, it’s dropped off into deeper water and you’re not prepared to catch it.
Just like baitfish, gamefish remain on the grass flats for now!
The redfish action continues to please.
Schools of redfish continue to roam the flats, but now I’m encountering more rat reds than I did in October. I don’t have a problem with that because they’re still fun to catch and if you never have, they’re a blast. Riley found that out himself recently when he caught his first redfish. If you happen upon a school of small redfish and are hoping to take one home for dinner, it’s best to move on in search of larger fish. They’re still around, you just have to do a little looking.
Seatrout, out of all the inshore species, remain the most dependable, as far as fish for dinner. It’s been a banner year for seatrout, and I look for that trend to last right through the end of the year. With all the baitfish hatchlings we’ve had this year, the seatrout are not only plentiful,
Snook are still open to harvest until the first of December, so get out and take advantage of it. My clients are still catching plenty of snook. Some are in the slot, 28 to 33 inches, but most are just under or over the harvest slot. Oscar Santana and Kinh Shiau fished with me earlier this month and Oscar caught and released a 34” snook unharmed. It turns out, Oscar had never fished before and this snook was the first fish he’s ever caught. Unbelievably, he continued to out fish Kinh during the rest of the charter. Talk about beginner’s luck, now Oscar is ruined for life.
but they’re also fat. So much so, I find myself measuring more fish than normal because of their exceptional weight, just to find out they measure a ¼ to ½ inch short and have to go back in the water.
One tip I can give you, be patient when seatrout fishing. Don’t just anchor up in a likely spot and give it only 10-15 minutes. Also, do some live bait chumming. If you’re fishing in an area with a good tidal flow, chumming will draw fish to your boat. Doing so over time also brings in the big boys. Fish have a knack for knowing when other fish are feeding and don’t want to be left out. Chumming is like ringing a dinner bell!
As for Spanish mackerel, there are still a few around, but I’m not catching as many as before Milton. It’s also been very windy lately, so I haven’t ventured out to some of my favor-
ite spots in the middle of the bay. Spanish mackerel usually stick around in Tampa Bay until the water temperature starts reaching the mid-60s. Then you occasionally catch a few at the power plant outflows.
The shark fishing has slowed as well, but I’m thinking it’s only temporary. Once the water starts cooling off sharks will move toward the power plant outflows, too.
Even though the fishing this month has resembled October more than November, it won’t last. Make sure you’re ready! Be prepared to catch your bait around some of the bridge pilings or range makers scattered throughout Tampa Bay and to fish in deeper water also.
Afishionado, “Adventures in Fishing.”
Tampa Bay fishing guide Wade Osborne of “Afishionado Guide Services” has been plying the waters of Tampa Bay as a professional full-time captain, since 1997. Osborne has been featured on numerous TV and radio shows and writes for multiple publications. Osborne offers inshore fishing charters on light tackle spin, fly or plug. He also offers eco-tours with an emphasis on photography. For more info visit Afishionado.com or find Afishionado Guide Services on Facebook and Instagram. Email: wade@afishionado.com Call/Text 813-286-3474
HAWKSBILL SEA TURTLE
The Hawksbill Sea Turtle or the Eretmochelys Imbricata, as it’s known by its scientific name, is a critically endangered sea turtle belonging to the family Cheloniidae. It is the only extant species in the type of the Eretmochelys. The species has a global distribution that is largely limited to tropical and subtropical marine and estuary ecosystems.
Hawksbills are named for their narrow, pointed beak. They also have a distinctive pattern of overlapping scales on their shells that form a serrated look on the edges. These colored and patterned shells make them highly valuable and commonly sold as “tortoiseshell” in markets.
The appearance of the Hawksbill Sea Turtle is similar to that of other marine turtles. In general, it has a flattened body shape, a protective carapace, and flipper-like limbs, adapted for swimming in the open ocean. The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is easily distinguished from other sea turtles by its sharp, curving beak with prominent tomium and the saw-like appearance of its shell margins. Hawksbill shells slightly change colors, depending on water temperature. While this turtle lives part of its life in the open ocean, it spends more time in shallow lagoons and coral reefs.
Hawksbills are found mainly throughout the world’s tropical oceans, predominantly in coral reefs. They feed mainly on sponges by using their narrow-pointed beaks to extract them from crevices on the reef but also eat sea anemones and jellyfish. Sea turtles are the living representatives of a group of reptiles that have existed on Earth and traveled our seas for the last 100 million years. They are a fundamental link in marine ecosystems and help maintain the health of coral reefs and seagrass beds.
Adult Hawksbill Sea Turtles typically grow to three feet in length, weighing around 180 pounds on average. The heaviest Hawksbill ever captured weighed 280 pounds. The turtle’s shell, or carapace, has an amber background patterned with an irregular combina-
By Libby Hopkins
tion of light and dark streaks, with predominantly black and mottled-brown colors radiating to the sides.
Crawling with an alternating gait, hawksbill tracks left in the sand are asymmetrical. In contrast, the green sea turtle and the leatherback turtle have a more symmetrical gait. Due to its consumption of venomous cnidarians, hawksbill sea turtle flesh can become toxic.
The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is biofluorescent and is the first reptile recorded with this characteristic. It is unknown if the effect is due to the turtle’s diet, which includes biofluorescent organisms like the hard coral. Males have more intense pigmentation than females and a behavioral role of these differences is speculated.
Less is known about the life history of Hawksbills in comparison to several other sea turtle species. Their life history may be divided into three phases, the early life history phase from approximately 4–30 cm straight carapace length. The benthic phase is when the immature turtles recruit to foraging areas. Finally, the reproductive phase, when individuals reach sexual maturity and begin periodically migrating to breeding grounds. The early life history phase is not as geographically resolved as other sea turtle species. This phase appears to vary across ocean regions and may occur in both pelagic and nearshore waters, possibly lasting from 0–4 years of age.
Hawksbills mate biannually in secluded lagoons off their nesting beaches in remote islands throughout their range. The most significant nesting beaches are in Mexico, the Seychelles, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Australia. The mating season for Atlantic hawksbills usually spans from April to November. Indian Ocean populations, such as the Seychelles Hawksbill Sea Turtle’s population, mate from September to February. After mating, females drag their heavy bodies high onto the beach during the night. They clear an area of debris and dig a nesting hole using their rear flippers, then lay clutches of eggs
and cover them with sand. Caribbean and Florida nests typically contain around 140 eggs. After the hours-long process, the female returns to the sea. Their nests can be found on beaches in about 60 countries.
Raising awareness for Hawkbill Turtles is the first step to establishing nesting and foraging sanctuaries to protect them, though maintaining effective enforcement of those protective laws remains a more difficult element to consider. The good news is that there are already several countries that have banned all exploitation of Hawksbill Sea Turtles, their eggs, and their parts on the local level to improve international trade enforcement.
Wildlife exploitation is often driven by the demand for souvenirs and products made with animal parts. The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is particularly vulnerable because of the beautiful golden-brown coloration of its shell, often used to make jewelry, trinkets, sunglasses, combs, and decorative pieces. Learning to identify, avoid, and report Hawksbill shell products is a key step in preventing their illegal trade.
Fishery bycatch is always a touchy subject in communities that rely on fishing as a source of income. Luckily, conservation groups are working to create sustainable alternatives that can benefit both the fisher and the marine environments they depend upon. Implementing circle-shaped hooks instead of common J-shaped hooks, for example, can reduce the amount of turtle bycatch in longline fisheries. In the United States, the NOAA has worked closely with the shrimping industry to develop Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) that reduce the mortality of sea turtle bycatch in trawls.
Satellite telemetry is also used by Hawksbill Sea Turtle researchers to track the animals and learn more about their feeding and migration patterns. The goal goes beyond scientific discovery since satellite images can help fisheries anticipate where turtles are more likely to encounter their boats and gear.
This publication is supported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award U2FFD007446 totaling $1,166,732 with 100 percent funded by FDA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by FDA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
Locally Sourced and Healthy Teas
By Libby Hopkins
The history of tea spreads across many cultures throughout thousands of years. Tea drinkers have enjoyed tea’s savory flavors and health benefits as well. Herbert Frauwallner has been drinking tea for most of his life and contributes his overall well-being to the health benefits of tea. “My doctor always asks me why I come to see him because I’m in good health,” Frauwallner said. He is 82 years old and the owner of Orfiblue, an organic tea farm and tea business in Lake Wales.
Frauwallner is originally from Austria, and he was born in 1942. “At the age of 22, I made the decision to leave my country and start a great adventure in Latin America,” Frauwallner said. “During my next 20 years, it was there that I fell in love with organic farming. In 1982 I came to America to start my first honey production business with 3,500 beehives, in Vero Beach, Florida. I liked the idea of offering organic products that benefit the environment as well as those who consume it. For this reason, I focused on the breeding of tilapia fish and the cultivation of 100 percent organic blueberries and blueberry leaves for tea.”
Frauwallner is proud of the organic teas he creates on his farm and the many health benefits they offer to his clients. “Today, I enjoy full health, a strong immune system, and considerable weight loss thanks to the consumption of blueberries and blueberry leaf tea, part of 100 percent organic tea only pro-
duced by Orfiblue,” he said. “I can say that after making these big changes I feel happy and full of energy, next to my wife Antonina, with whom I have been married for two years.”
Orfiblue is a small business that currently produces 20,000 Blueberry plants annually on five acres. “We produce 14,000 pounds of Blueberries, 25,000 Blueberry leaves, 15,000 Passion Fruit leaves, 15,000 Insulina leaves, and 10,000 Moringa leaves,” Frauwallner said. “These blueberries and leaves are then processed into the teas we sell at the farm, online, and at local locations. Everything we do is done right here on our farm.”
There are many health benefits to drinking locally sourcedteas. “Blueberry leaves are full of amazingly powerful antioxidants that will help a person become healthy,” Frauwallner said. “This wonderful tea has great anti-inflammatory abilities, and it also helps with allergies and with type 2 diabetes. With studies going all the way back to 1927 showing how powerful blueberry leaves can be for healing. Thus, we have a greattasting tea that can heal the body in many ways.”
Other health benefits of tea drinking include helping with inflammation-related diseases, diabetes, anemia, low energy or fatigue, arthritis, and other joint pain, such as rheumatism allergies as well as asthma. “Studies that came out in 2009
in the Journal of Medicinal Food showed that blueberry tea is extremely high in antioxidants,” Frauwallner said. “In fact, blueberry leaves contain 31 times more antioxidant polyphenols and anthocyanins than the berries themselves.” Orfiblue’s Moringa Tea is beneficial for improving digestive health and lowering diabetes. “Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, moringa has been used in ancient systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda, to prevent or treat stomach ulcers, liver disease, kidney damage, fungal or yeast infections, digestive complaints, and infections,” Frauwallner said. “A common use of moringa oil is to help boost liver function, therefore detoxifying the body of harmful substances, such as heavy metal toxins.”
Frauwallner’s Passion Fruit Tea contains several vitamins and minerals that are good for the skin. “Passion fruits are one of the plants that are easy to cultivate,” Frauwallner said. “There are many beauty industries that use it for body maintenance. Hence, the need for fruit is increasing. Due to this matter, several industries are also thinking of taking advantage of the leaves.”
Keeping things local is also important to Frauwallner and his team at Orfiblue. “We pride ourselves on keeping things local at Orfiblue,” Frauwallner said. “All of our tea ingredients are grown on our farm and processed into our teas right here as well. We welcome our community to come out and take a tour of our farm and see where their teas are made. We also give our guests a small Blueberry plant to take home with them when Blueberries are in season.”
If you’d like to learn more about Orfiblue or if you’d like to try some of their teas, you can visit their website at www. orfiblue.com. Their farm is located at 3150 Walk in Water Rd. in Lake Wales.
Need a memory boost? The anthocyanins in strawberries have been shown to increase short term memory by 100 percent in eight weeks.
Well-maintained trees and shrubs can increase property value by up to 14%.
The ancient Romans thought strawberries could cure bad breath and chronic fainting. Over the course of its life, a single tree can absorb one ton of carbon dioxide.
Split a double strawberry in half, share it with the opposite sex, and you’ll find love (at least according to legend).
The shade and wind buffering provided by trees reduces annual heating and cooling costs by 2.1 billion dollars.
Indians called strawberries “heart-seed berries” and pounded them into their traditional corn-meal bread.
One tree can absorb as much carbon in a year as a car produces while driving 26,000 miles.
Fresh juice from sieved strawberry pulp has a cooling effect on feverish patients.
Weight Loss
My wife and three daughters are always working on losing weight. Daughter number two, Lori, has had some remarkable results with her program. She said the other day that she didn’t want to brag or make anyone jealous, but she can still fit into the earrings she wore in high school.
While millions are always dieting, they lose sight of the health benefits of being over weight. A recent report states that being over weight is not as harmful to the body as is commonly believed. They say being 10 to 15 pounds over weight could protect people from ailments ranging from TB to Alzheimer’s disease. Those carrying 20 to 25 pounds are better able to recover from such adverse conditions such as emphysema, pneumonia and other injuries and infections, states the report.
Thirty to forty pounds of extra weight could help fend off breast, kidney, pancreatic, prostate and colon cancer. And even an extra 40 pounds may improve eyesight, reverse baldness, cure the common cold, and reduce global warming.
Over all, the study concludes, over weight people are happier, more successful in business, smarter and friendlier. This study was funded by a research
Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the November 2015 issue
grant from McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, Domino’s, Starbucks, Haagen Dazs, Sara Lee and Krispy Kreme.
I am a firm believer if you drink a diet Coke with a Hershey candy bar, the calories in the candy bar are canceled out by the diet Coke. Things licked off knives and spoons have no calories if you are in the process of preparing something sweet. Examples are peanut butter on a knife making a sandwich and ice cream on a spoon making a sundae. Foods that have the same color have the same number of calories. Examples are spinach and pistachio ice cream, mushrooms and white chocolate, pink grapefruit and ham. REMEMBER chocolate is a universal color and may be substituted for any other food color you want. Also, chocolate is a vegetable, and chocolate comes from the cocoa bean, and beans are vegetables.
I am sure a number of you reading this article have at one time or another has joined Weight Watchers. This is a worldwide organization. One Weight Watchers group in Sweden a few years back went in for a weigh in only to have the floor beneath them collapse. One member said, “It felt like an earthquake, and as we tried to abandon the
room everything fell thru to the first floor. Evidently we didn’t lose enough weight, so they changed our menu for the rest of the month.”
According to a study by researchers at a couple of universities, your credit card could be making you fat. It has been known for a while that we are more likely to spend more when we are paying by card than by cash, the study results found that paying with plastic also has disastrous results for your waistline, as people are more likely to buy junk food and “bad for you” products – which tend to be impulse purchases – when paying by credit card. To keep off the pounds and save yourself some money, draw out enough cash for the day and then leave your cards at home.
Recently I read a story about a 44-year old British man that weighed 980 pounds. He supposedly had emotional issues and turned to eating for comfort. He died of pneumonia after undergoing a gastric sleeve operation that removed three-quarters of his stomach.
In a newspaper article it was stated that his mother fed and bathed him regularly. He purportedly consumed around 20,000 calories a day in a diet that included six-egg fried breakfasts, lunches and dinners with pizza, kebabs and take out food including about 12 Big Macs. He also reportedly consumed 3.5 liters of coffee and 2 liters of carbonated drinks every day.
Some countries, such as Switzerland and the UK, have facilities for cremation for obese people. However, this is not the case in Austria. When a 440-pound woman was being cremated it caused the oven to over heat and almost burn the facility down. When the temperature reached 572 degrees Fahrenheit, officials realized there was problem when thick black smoke started coming out of the building.
Firemen said that after reports of similar problems at other crematoriums, officials are now considering a ban on larger bodies.
Adam was walking around the Garden of Eden feeling very lonely. God asked Adam what was wrong. Adam said he didn’t have anyone to talk to, so God decided he would give him a companion and it would be a woman. God told Adam that the woman would cook for him, wash his clothes, and always agree with every decision he made. She would bear his children and never ask him to getup in the middle of the night to take care of them. She would not nag him and would always be the first to admit she was wrong during a disagreement. She would never have a headache, and would freely give him love and compassion whenever needed. Adam asked God what a woman like this would cost him. God told him, “An arm and a leg.” Adam replied, “What can I get for just a rib?” The rest is history.
HERBICIDE PLUS FERTILIZER EQUALS FEWER WEEDS AND, THUS MORE TOMATOES
By Brad Buck
A combination of herbicide and fertilizer can prevent the nasty nutsedge weed from harming tomatoes, new University of Florida research shows. That, in turn, should mean more of the fruit going to the grocery store and your kitchen.
An increase or decrease in tomato production is critical because it’s a $400 million-a-year industry in Florida.
Growers want to control nutsedge, which can severely damage their crop.
“Nutsedge is a notorious weed that poses significant challenges for vegetable production in Florida,” said Ramdas Kanissery, a UF/IFAS weed scientist and associate professor of horticultural sciences. “Managing nutsedge effectively is crucial for tomato growers aiming to ensure a successful crop.”
When nutsedge infests plastic-mulch beds, it competes with tomato plants for vital resources such as water and nutrients, said Kanissery, a faculty member at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center.
Indeed, research has shown that an infestation of purple nutsedge can reduce tomato yields by more than 40 percent, Kanissery noted.
“These weeds are particularly difficult to manage in crops like tomatoes that grow in plasticulture systems because they are the only weeds that can puncture plastic mulch,” he said.
Damaged plastic mulch poses a huge concern for growers. It increases labor costs required to remove the plastic. Nutsedge also spreads quickly.
To control nutsedge, tomato growers use pre-emergence herbicide – which is sprayed on soil before the weed sprouts from the ground. The problem with that approach is that herbicide can leach into the root zone of tomato plants, which can minimize crop growth.
For the new study, doctoral student Ruby Tiwari, working under the supervision of Kanissery, found that a combination of pre-emergence herbicide and fertilizer helped control nutsedge.
Specifically, Tiwari and her colleagues found that if growers apply herbicides such as S-Metolachlor to raised tomato beds before laying down plastic mulch, they can control nutsedge without harming crop health or yield.
Furthermore, combining the herbicide with fertilizer can help suppress nutsedge in the beds, while maintaining yield.
“This method is particularly popular in midwestern states for crops such as wheat,” Kanissery said. “One challenge of weed management in Florida is herbicide leaching, which can harm crops. By combining a slow-release iron fertilizer with the preemergence herbicide, we aim to address these challenges and improve weed control.”
UF STUDY: NATIVE PLANTS OUTPERFORM NON-NATIVE SPECIES FOR GROWTH AND FLORAL ABUNDANCE
By Brad Buck
If you want more reasons to plant native species, here’s new evidence from University of Florida research: Native plants outperform non-native ones in growth and floral abundance, thriving better under both full and partial irrigation.
That means more pollinators, such as bees, are attracted to them.
The research also showed native species adapted better to local environmental conditions, meaning they required less water. That translates to lower maintenance costs.
For the study, scientists selected 20 plants – 10 native and 10 non-native -- based on several criteria:
• Their anticipated value to pollinators (particularly bees).
• Diversity in bloom times.
• A mix of flower colors and shapes to attract different pollinators.
Scientists planted the species at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center in Quincy and at the Plant Science Research and Education Unit in Citra. They used different irrigation levels and native and non-native plants to see how well the plants would grow.
While full irrigation enhanced plant survival during the first year of the two-year study, native plants generally outperformed non-native ones in both overall plant size and flower density, regardless of water levels.
“This suggests that native plants are more resilient and waterefficient, which is important in areas with water restrictions or droughts,” said Joanna Silva, a doctoral student who conducted the research -- with funding from USDA-NIFA -- under the supervision of principal investigator Rachel Mallinger, an assistant professor of entomology. “Native species not only help conserve water but support pollinator populations, which is a key strategy for addressing global pollinator decline.”
The research supports efforts to encourage the use of native or Florida-friendly plants in landscapes, contributing to water conservation, Silva said.
That makes these findings particularly important for landscapers, gardeners and nurseries, she said.
“Many commercially available plant mixes include native and non-native plants, but sometimes, some of these plants do not provide sufficient resources for pollinators – such as a nectar and pollen -- and they require more maintenance than most ecologically friendly plants,” Silva said.
From this study, nurseries, gardeners and landscapers can learn that Florida-friendly plants are suited for local conditions, requiring less water and maintenance, she said.
“By planting native plants, they can create more sustainable landscapes that conserve water and support local pollinators and wildlife,” Silva said.
FLORIDA KIWI
By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
The cooler fall months are peak season for fresh kiwis. Kiwi, also called kiwifruit or Chinese gooseberry, is native to China and Taiwan and a member of the Acinidiaceae family. Kiwi has a distinctive fuzzy brown peel which covers a bright yellow to green flesh with multiple small, edible black seeds. It has a sweet and slightly acidic taste and can be eaten raw or cooked. The juice can be used as a meat tenderizer.
Kiwifruit may be eaten raw, juiced into a beverage or used in savory dishes or baked goods and desserts. The entire fruit, including seeds and skin, are edible, but most commonly the skin is discarded. They have a sweet, tropical flavor that is slightly acidic, and the flesh contains multiple small edible black seeds that provide a light crunch to the texture.
Nutritional Profile
Kiwi fruit are high in vitamins A and C, potassium, calcium, phosphate and dietary fiber. These nutrients are important for a strong immune system, a healthy digestive system, lowering cholesterol levels, and prevent the negative effects of free radicals. The darker pigmented varieties also provide a rich source of antioxidants. The outer peel is entirely edible and contains most of the fiber in the fruit. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one fresh whole kiwi (69g) contains 42 calories, 0.8 g of protein, 0.4 g of fat, 10 g of carbohydrate, and 2.1 g of fiber. It also provides 106% of the Daily Recommended Value (% DV) for vitamin C, 30% for vitamin K, 8% for fiber, and 6% for potassium, as well as significant amounts of magnesium, iron, folate, and calcium.
Antioxidants: Fight off disease
Kiwi is very high in disease-fighting antioxidants, which work to neutralize destructive free radicals in the body. When healthy cells are damaged, they are more susceptible to disease and certain types of cancer, and antioxidants may help slow the progression of conditions like asthma, arthritis, and colon cancer. Diets that contain fruits and are high in vitamin C are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
Vitamin C also has other important functions in the body. Eating kiwi and other foods high in vitamin C can significantly raise the amount of iron your body absorbs. Adequate intake and absorption of iron is necessary to prevent anemia. Vitamin C also supports the body’s immune system in its ability to fight infections and viruses. Additionally, this vitamin is involved in keeping capillaries, gums, and skin healthy and supple.
Fiber: For regularity and good health
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. Fiber also promotes bowel regularity and increases satiety levels, which can aid in weight control. In addition to the effects of fiber on regularity, other compounds in kiwi make this fruit especially effective in promoting healthy digestive functioning. Eating kiwi can be an effective treatment for constipation without the side effects or risks of medication. Kiwi is high in both soluble and insoluble fiber which has great benefits for both the heart and digestive system.
How to select and store
For optimal taste, choose a ripe kiwi that yields slightly to gentle pressure and has a fragrant smell. Look for a fuzzy skin that is free of cuts or blemishes. The ripening process can be accelerated by placing the fruit in a paper bag overnight. Once ripe, refrigerate for up to one week. Rinse under cool running water before eating or preparing. Kiwi can also be peeled and frozen for later use, but the texture will be altered.
How to enjoy
Fresh kiwi are delicious enjoyed fresh out-of-hand at their peak of ripeness. They can also be baked, roasted, sauteed, pureed or made into jams, compotes, ice creams and syrup. The flavor is enhanced when combined with vanilla, lemon, strawberries, and other fruit flavors. Kiwi are also delicious in savory applications when cooked with pork, lamb, grilled shellfish and chicken.
Ways to enjoy fresh kiwi include:
• Chop and add to cereal, oatmeal, or fruit salad
• Dice and use to top ice cream or yogurt
• thinly and top a peanut butter sandwich
• Use fresh kiwi as a meat tenderizer
• Blend with other fruit to make a smoothie or freeze into a sorbet
Enjoy this beautiful, fragrant fruit during Florida’s peak season, knowing you will get loads of nutrition with every sweet, juicy bite.
Selected References
http://www.uga.edu
http://www.whfoods.com http://aic.ucdavis.edu/profiles/
LENDING A HAND
By Melissa Nichols
THE FLORIDA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION AND FOUNDATION STEP UP IN TIME OF NEED
There is no doubt much of Central Florida will talk for the next decade about the unprecedented events around Hurricane Milton. From one of the strongest storms to ever form in the Gulf of Mexico rapidly becoming a category 5 storm, to the predicted landfall in the mouth of Tampa Bay, Milton is an event we will never forget. The actual landfall that occurred to the South on Siesta Key on October did spare a lot of damage to Tampa itself, but nothing could have prepared the area north of the eyewall from the immense rainfall amounts that pummeled the area. In some parts of Hillsborough and Polk County areas saw upwards of 19 inches of rain in less than 24 hours.
The ground was already saturated from rainfall that had not let up since mid-July and the record rainfall from Hurricane Debby to the same area, creating the ultimate nightmare for many ranchers. It didn’t require much wind before trees began to fall, many of which were hundred-year-old oak trees that had seen their fair share of hurricanes. Daylight on October 10 told a tale that no words were needed to describe. A significant number of the agriculture community was in desperate need of help. Over the next 48 hours, water continued to rise, and many ranchers found themselves in situations they had never experienced. Flood waters took over a vast majority of the ranchland in North Polk County and along the rivers and creeks in many areas of Hillsborough County. Many major roads were shut down, (Deen Still, Rockridge, Highway 301, just to name a few) due to water being over the road and impassable. As you drove around you would see cattle gathered on little mounds of dry land in flooded pastures.
Many landowners used airboats to survey damages and check on cattle because there was simply no other way to get to them. The Hillsborough River, Alafia River, Cypress Creek, Anclote River, and the Withlacoochee River began to resume the natural flow of runoff water which in return caused them all to flood. The Hillsborough River reached a record high of 38.16 feet at Morris Bridge Rd, Cypress Creek in Lutz set a record for 15.08 feet, Anclote River peaked at 26.57 feet, the Withlacoochee River peaked at 19.86 feet. Many other adjoining creeks also reached record-high flooding as the water found places to go. One of the hardest parts for many ranchers near flooded waterways was the water made its way into
areas with no way to flow back upon water beginning to recede, leaving many flooded for weeks after the storm.
In the strawberry industry, many had planted a variety of berries this year expected to be harvestable early, and many had plants in the ground when the storm hit, causing extensive damage to young plants and the plastic. The blueberry industry took a hard hit to the blueberry bushes, which many growers found laid over and to date appear to be behind on the bud setting they would normally see at this point in the crop year. The citrus industry took an exceptionally hard hit as they had high hopes of this year being a great crop season and they are finding that most have fruit losses between 40-60 percent of their entire crop. Very few in the agriculture industry were left unscathed by this storm.
Although many industries were hurting, one association really took the initiative to be there and help their fellow ranchers. In the days prior to Hurricane Milton, the Florida Cattlemen’s Association was a group that rose to action and had plans in place before the landfall occurred. This same group of volunteer leaders and staff had just finished helping in Levy, Suwanee, Lafayette, Jefferson, Madison, Dixie, and Taylor counties following Hurricane Debby and Helene. The Florida Cattlemen’s Association has formally helped with disaster recovery since the Hurricanes of 2004, with chainsaw and fence teams being the main focus for many years. When Hurricane Michael devastated the panhandle in 2018, FCA’s volunteer leaders and staff led their largest efforts up to that time to help contain cattle, provide them with food and water, and start the rebuilding process. Two gentlemen, along with the Seminole Tribe of Florida, that stood up to help take the lead at that time were Alex Johns and Pat Durden. Since Hurricane Michael, a Florida Cattlemen’s Association Task Force dealing with disaster response and relief has been created. The Seminole Tribe, Pat, and Alex, are still a large part of that group and have served as mentors to the current Task Force Chairman, Justin White. The Florida Cattlemen’s Association has the task force, but the disaster funding comes from and is managed by the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation (FCF), the Association’s Philanthropic Arm. The senior staff of FCA (Jim Handley and Dusty Holley) work with the Florida Department of Agriculture’s State Agriculture Response Team (SART) on
coordinating efforts of relief and recovery. The SART group meets throughout the year to prepare for disasters and work together every day when a disaster occurs.
While donations often take time to arrive, and sometimes governmental relief can be slowed by red tape, the FCA and FCF response is normally already in motion just as the winds and rain are slowing.
“We are able to be on the ground helping, hours after a storm passes, before most are able to mobilize, we are out fixing fences and providing much needed livestock supplies Dusty Holley, FCA’s Director of Field Services, said.”
Many times FCA/FCF will buy the initial supplies needed, such as posts, hay, water, feed, chainsaws, and barbed wire (each storm has different needs to serve the people affected). This time, the locations were established across the affected area with two in both Polk and Hillsborough County, with single locations in Pasco, Sumter, and Highlands Counties, and
one close to the Manatee/Sarasota line to serve those who needed supplies. They distributed over 2,400 square bales of hay, 500 rolls of hay, 44 tons of feed, 25 bundles of posts, 4 pallets of barbed wire, and 5 pallets of water and had many chainsaw and fence teams out and about helping ranchers in need. These supplies are a combination of purchases on behalf of the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation and donations from sponsors of this foundation and within the community. It was truly amazing to watch the men and women hand out much-needed help to our cattle rancher.
If you would like to get involved with the Cattlemen’s Foundation Disaster Recovery fund, reach out to www.floridacattlemen.org and become a sponsor of this cause. Thank you to the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and Foundation for doing an excellent job being ready and able to help out just hours after Hurricane Milton left central Florida a path of destruction. The volunteers involved in this are a reminder of the times when helping thy neighbor was the way the world responded to every situation that arose.
Bok North FFA: A Month of Service, Leadership, and Fun
Written by Kendall Farrar - Bok North FFA Reporter
by Hayley Neal and Jennifer Williams
Bok North FFA has had an action-packed month, filled with exciting activities, community service projects, and meaningful opportunities for students to strengthen their bonds with each other and the community.
The month kicked off with a Keep Polk County Beautiful road cleanup, where we visited the road our chapter adopted and spent the day collecting trash. The cleanup was a rewarding experience, and, in the process, we even found a TV in excellent condition! This activity not only helped improve our local environment but also brought our members closer as a team.
Next, our officers participated in FFA COLT (Chapter Officer Leadership Training), where we learned valuable leadership skills and how to better serve our chapter. The event was filled with leadership sessions, handson crafts, and the chance to meet inspiring people from across the state. Our officers even managed to get autographs and take photos with the state FFA officers, making the day even more memorable.
Our Agriculture Literacy initiative continued with a visit to Polk Avenue Elementary School, where we shared a book on vegetable production in Florida. After a lively question-and-answer session with the fifth graders, we treated them to samples of fresh Florida-grown produce, including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and rainbow carrots.
Following COLT, we held a Chapter Meeting, where we were thrilled to welcome state officers Gabby Howell and Tregg Aguero. Their energy and enthusiasm helped make the meeting an unforgettable experience. We turned the meeting into a fun, interactive event by making candy salad and playing musical chairs with their help. Gabby and Tregg were a huge asset, and we enjoyed spending time with them.
To recognize World Mental Health Day, our chapter launched the Wellness Warriors series with an inaugural session focusing on teen anxiety. Officers and members presented to classes at Bok North Academy, discussing the causes of anxiety, its impact on teens, and practical strategies for managing it. The series will continue monthly, addressing various topics to support the mental well-being of middle school students.
Later in the month, we hosted our annual Chili Cook-Off, where FFA students showcased their homemade chili recipes for judging by staff. Each student brought their A-game, making the event both delicious and exciting. LeeAna and Madison received the most votes for their chili, and they, along with Hiley, Lane, Brianna, and Emily, will move on to represent us at the Lake Wales FFA Alumni Chili Cook-Off on November 19th, which will be followed by the annual cake and pie auction. On the same day, we held a Goat Work Day, giving students the chance to work hands-on with the goats they’ll be showing. Led by Brianna and Emily, students learned how to walk, pose, and bond with their goats, gaining confidence and valuable skills.
The following weekend, our officers and several members volunteered at the Hollie Brewer Adaptive Rodeo, a truly special event. Our chapter helped provide an inclusive experience for all participants by pairing members with buddies to guide them through their rodeo events, ensuring everyone felt welcome and had a great time.
We also brought along a variety of animals—including five goats, one cow, three rabbits, and four chickens—for a petting zoo. To enhance the experience for our buddies, we received donations of fidgets, noise-
Photos
canceling headphones, and snacks. Additionally, we set up a calm-down section where participants could relax, color, and play with sensory items. It was an incredible day, and we were honored to play a part in its success.
To cap off the month, our chapter enjoyed a team bonding experience with a haunted jail tour hosted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It was a thrilling and fun adventure that brought our officer team closer. The day ended with a group dinner at Sonny’s, where we reflected on the fantastic month we’d had. We are grateful to Sonny’s for accommodating our large group and serving a delicious meal.
This past month has been full of meaningful activities that have brought our chapter closer together. As we look ahead, we are excited for our upcoming Fall Fest in November, where we will be assembling Thanksgiving baskets for families in need within our community. The future is bright for Bok North FFA, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
UF SmartAg certificates prepare students to enter agriculture’s AI job market
By Jim Frankowiak
Graduate students from across the University of Florida can leap into the future workplaces of agricultural technology. Through two Smart Ag certificate programs, started in 2022, the agricultural and biological engineering department (ABE) offers classes in which students can learn and apply artificial intelligence concepts.
The courses are open to any UF graduate student.
Through courses in the programs, students make themselves more marketable for the workforce, said Tom Burks, a UF/ IFAS professor of agricultural and biological engineering.
“At this stage of their lives, without job experience, having classroom experience in the domain they want to work in is valuable,” said Burks, who teaches several courses in both of the SmartAg certificates. “It demonstrates ability.”
Concepts of SmartAg systems can be applied to many careers, ranging from production and precision agriculture to robotics, food processing and packaging, vertical farming and more.
The certificates provide students with a sequence of required courses, in addition to elective courses in an area of their interest. Students must pass 12 credit hours to earn a certificate. Burks gave several examples of how courses in the SmartAg programs can develop marketable skills:
• In Applied Statistical Machine Learning, students learn practical machine learning techniques focused on applying statis-
tical methods, designed for those with a basic understanding of regression. The course emphasizes using AI and machine learning tools to enhance students’ research projects or build professional portfolios. Statistical Machine Learning, on the other hand, delves deeper into the mathematical and theoretical foundations of machine learning, providing a more indepth exploration of statistical methods, making it suitable for those looking to specialize in the statistical aspects of machine learning.
• In Control Methods in SmartAg Systems, they learn to design, analyze and simulate classical and modern control approaches as well as artificial intelligence-based control approaches in theoretical, modeling and practical applications. This could lead to jobs designing and testing control systems for production agriculture, precision agriculture, food processing, water resources and more.
• In Advanced Precision Agriculture, students explore technologies that support precision farming and managing natural resource data. They learn to use tools like GPS, GIS, variable rate technologies, automated guidance systems, and software to improve farming efficiency and data management. This can lead to careers in precision agriculture, environmental management, or roles focused on technology integration in farming operations and natural resource planning.
• Students in Applied Control for Automation and Robotics learn the theory behind autonomous vehicles and serial link manipulators along with fundamentals for machine visionbased control. This could lead to jobs developing robotic
applications for production agriculture, water resources and other applications that require robotic solutions.
Students laud the program for its rigor.
“As someone who doesn’t have an engineering background, I was worried I would really struggle with the classes,” said Amber Riner, who earned her master’s degree in agronomy this summer and graduated with a SmartAg certificate. “However, all of my professors throughout these courses were really friendly and worked to make the course material accessible to students from all backgrounds.”
Faculty have chimed in as well about the usefulness of the SmartAg certificate classes.
For example, Dana Choi, an assistant professor agricultural and biological engineering at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, said the module titled, “Wireless Sensor Networks,” provides students with hands-on activities that closely simulate real agricultural scenarios.
“For example, they set up sensors to track moisture levels or temperature changes, transmitting real-time field data to a cloud server,” Choi said. “Students develop valuable skills in data analytics, system design, and remote agricultural management. These exercises not only equip students with the ability to integrate IoT devices but also enhance their understanding of how such technology can lead to more sustainable farming practices. This hands-on approach not only improves learning outcomes but also showcases the innovative work our department is doing to advance precision agriculture.”
Students must put together portfolios of their course work, which makes them document and think about what they’ve learned that could be useful in the workplace, Burks said.
“The portfolios are a positive thing to have on your resume,” he said. “The certificate shows a potential employer that
you’ve achieved these competencies. The SmartAg skills are the middle ground between theory and application.”
In an article co-authored by Burks, ABE Chair Kati Migliaccio and assistant professor Adam Watson, the scientists say: “The sustainability of our world food supply chain will likely depend on many factors, including a favorable climate, water availability and quality, soil fertility and conservation, production costs and efficiency…(and) we believe that SmartAg students empowered with emerging AI approaches hold promise for the future.”
Click here to apply to the SmartAg Systems certificate program.
SOUTHERN SCIENTISTS USE ARTIFICIAL
TO REDUCE COSTS, LABOR ON FARMS
By Brad Buck
This article was written with contributions from Erin Yates, Latasha Ford, Alana Martin, and Alisa Gore.
Scientists throughout the South are using artificial intelligence (AI) to help growers save labor costs and time, spray with precision, detect diseases, control food quality, maintain animal health, and help grow wheat.
Among the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) scientists helping growers save time and money is Yiannis Ampatzidis, an associate professor of agricultural and biological engineering. Ampatzidis invented Agroview, technology that uses images from drones, satellites and the ground.
Agroview assesses plant stress and it counts and categorizes plants based on their height and canopy area. The technology also estimates plant-nutrient content. It can reduce data collection, analysis time, and cost by up to 90 percent compared to manual data collection, Ampatzidis said.
“Growers in Florida and across the United States use this technology to predict yield, to detect stressed plant zones earlier and to develop maps for precision and variable-rate fertilizer applications,” said Ampatzidis, a faculty member at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center. “The maps can help growers apply fertilizers optimally, reduce application cost, and reduce environmental impact.”
Removing bruised strawberries
Another labor-saving use of AI comes from Ampatzidis and Won Suk “Daniel” Lee, a professor of agricultural and biological engineering on the UF main campus. Together, they’ve
developed technology that distinguishes between ripe and bruised strawberries.
Killing weeds, not crops
Weeds can crowd out growing crops. But sometimes, when farmers spray herbicides or fungicides to kill the weeds, they end up damaging crops as well. That’s why UF/IFAS scientist Nathan Boyd devised a precision weed sprayer.
Boyd, a professor of horticultural sciences at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC), worked with Arnold Schumann, a professor of soil, water and ecosystem sciences at the Citrus Research and Education Center, to design the sprayer.
Boyd uses images of weeds to train computers to identify them. Growers can use those pictures to know when, where and how to control pests. Using this form of precision agriculture, data from Boyd and Schumann have helped farmers reduce pesticide use by up to 90%.
At Virginia Tech, researchers are also interested in identifying and vanquishing weeds without harming crops.
U.S. growers spend approximately $6 to $8 billion annually using herbicides, in addition to rising labor costs for specialty crops.
Vijay Singh, assistant professor in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Virginia Cooperative Extension specialist at the Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center, is leading a project to automate the process of drone-spray technology and machine learning to conduct real-time weed detection. The project aims to standardize
the process and bring drone technology to the farmers’ field, saving time and money.
“Testing of unmanned aerial systems is the first step, but the overall goal of these technologies is to automate the process and conduct real-time weed detection and spray applications, which we will achieve in the next few years,” Singh said. At Virginia Tech, scientists employ machine-learning and image-processing techniques that help growers effectively identify and distinguish between several types of weeds, map their precise locations and conduct real-time weed detection.
University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences develops fresh food tech with augmented reality
Christopher Kucha, an assistant professor of food processing and engineering and head of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) Precision Food Systems Lab, uses precision sensing technologies and AI to create digital technologies including “digital twins” and augmented reality for food processing and quality control.
A digital twin is a virtual model of a physical object, like a food item, that researchers can use to simulate its life cycle and assess production processes.
“Amazon now uses augmented reality programs to show people what the products they are buying might look like in real life, and we are doing something somewhat similar with our digital twins,” Kucha said. “We collect data on a piece of food, its processing operations, distribution and shelf life and then develop the digital counterpart of those processes or products to optimize unit operations and quality monitoring in the supply chain.”
Ebenezer Olaniyi, a graduate research assistant in Kucha’s lab, added that the imaging system should improve the sustainability of the food industry by setting standards for better, faster processes that cut down on costs and waste.
Animal health management app at Fort Valley State University
Small and limited-resource farmers in the southern United States and South Africa will soon have immediate access to their own personal veterinarian and agronomist with just a click of the finger. AI and precision agriculture are on the rise as scientists explore emerging technologies for farmers to save money and increase productivity.
For that reason, researchers at Fort Valley State University (FVSU) in Georgia are using a $750,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to develop a precision animal health management app.
The purpose of this innovative project is to use geographic information systems (GIS) technology and AI computer modeling to develop an automated, cell phone-based decision support system for farmers in the United States and South Africa to improve animal health in their small ruminants (sheep and goats).
For example, a farmer can take pictures of an ailing goat’s eyes with a cell phone and then send the images through the downloaded free app. The farmer will receive immediate information on how to improve the goat’s health if it needs deworming. The research team found that many limited-re-
source farmers have access to mobile phone but may not have the funds or access to a veterinarian who is an expert in caring for small ruminants.
Oklahoma State University improves crop production by embracing AI
ExtensionBot, a chatbot app developed by Oklahoma State University (OSU) and the Extension Foundation, is currently in its pilot phase and will launch later this year.
ExtensionBot will give the public unlimited access to information in all Extension areas, such as community health, family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and agricultural and natural resources. Its narrative interface combined with AI technology improves accessibility and use of Extension content that currently exists online.
Another OSU app in the beginning stages of development is BudgetBot, an AI-powered advisor that simplifies decisionmaking for underserved, small- and medium-sized agricultural producers by providing easy access to research-based information. Using advanced AI software, BudgetBot connects to structured and unstructured data sources, delivering clear, actionable insights in text and visual formats. Designed to overcome complex, hard-to-use farm budgeting solutions, the app offers real-time data on commodity prices, production inputs and performance metrics.
Finally, researchers in the OSU Department of Plant and Soil Sciences are in the testing phase of a variety selection tool for wheat producers. Although such tools already exist, OSU researchers are throwing AI into the mix to increase the tool’s efficiency. Wheat producers can ask questions about specific production systems and manipulate wheat harvest data to illustrate production systems.
About:
The University of Florida, University of Georgia, Virginia Tech, Fort Valley State University and Oklahoma State University are part of a system of agricultural research centers at landgrant universities in the southern United States where scientists collaborate to conduct research and outreach focused on conserving the region’s natural resources and sustainably feeding a growing global population. #SouthernAgResearch
by John Dicks
LOTS TO BE THANKFUL FOR
One of the many great things about being a Grandfather, particularly during this time of year, is getting as gifts from our grandchildren all of those hand-painted, hand print turkeys!
You know what I’m talking about. We did it ourselves a zillion years ago, and thankfully, the tradition is still running at full steam. It’s the fine art made when the kids in the single digit age group (1-9), plant their hands on paper and draw around their outstretched fingers creating a rough (very rough) outline of a turkey gobbler, all ready to be colored.
The youngsters share such a delight in this discovery that they repeat the process over and over and over yet again, filling in the hand print turkey with faces, and smiles, and feathers. Naturally, with so many completed masterpieces at their fingertips, the logical question is what to do with (or at least how to dispose of) them all.
That’s where grandparents fit in and happily join in the fray. Our part of the fun is to simply laugh and smile at the silliness of all the hand print turkeys, and show the kids how my hand print turkey is a far larger one than theirs, all while gleefully spreading them around the refrigerator, snugging them securely under magnets for proper display!
Well, yeah, that’s a blast; and frankly, it’s certainly more fun (and less messy) than any of those annual Halloween pumpkin carving festivities!
That’s the great thing about this time of year. There’s lots of things going on to keep us busy and occupied, in good spirits, and focused on the future.
Frankly, after all that we’ve been through over the last few weeks, with politics, hurricanes, and even a rough college football season, we really need this time of thankfulness in November, and especially the spiritualness of December.
For Thanksgiving, it marks this year as the 403rd of this very special celebra-
tion. Remember, the Pilgrims had a rough go of it, both on their maiden voyage of the Mayflower, and during their first year in the “new world.” So in 1621 they celebrated with their new friends they called Indians, with a feast to remember, and it’s been going on ever since.
Some people, of course, celebrate the occasion with a big family, filled with smiles, lots of laughter, and a wide variety of homemade specialties to add to the meal. Other people are more sedate and reserved and enjoy the luxury of dining out, exchanging the prep and cleanup time for the chance to spend a bit longer, catching up with folks and family they have missed throughout the year.
Many more choose simply to be alone, or just share a little while with a “bestie,” quietly reflecting on the year and the experiences it has brought, and what more might be before the beginning of the next new year.
Thanksgiving, indeed, is special; and it’s one of those holidays that often just sneaks up on us, yet magically happens right when we need it. Maybe that was the thought and part of the brilliance behind the decisions of two of our very best Presidents, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
President Washington, in 1789, issued the first national Thanksgiving proclamation. Nearly a century later, it was Abraham Lincoln, during the midst of the Civil War, who actually pronounced a national day of Thanksgiving to be held every November.
More specifically, and as every grade school child is taught to know, Thanksgiving is officially recognized annually on the 4th Thursday in November. For this year, that makes it arrive late on the calendar; the very latest it can possibly be, being pegged for the 28th.
Presumably that will shorten the holiday season running into Christmas. Then again, who can complain about Christmas being so near? After all, that’s yet another great thing to be thankful for!
John Dicks is both a Lawyer and Businessman, including an interest in farming. He and his family have owned a Blueberry Farm and have Agricultural lands which they lease for cattle operations, as John says, “to someone who knows and handles cattle much better than I do!”. John is both a Gator, having received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and a Seminole, with his Law Degree from Florida State University. John serves as Of Counsel to Trinkle Redman, a law firm in Plant City where he also served nine years as City Commissioner, including three terms as Mayor.
USDA ACTIVATES PROGRAM TO HELP PEOPLE IN RURAL FLORIDA REPAIR HOMES DAMAGED
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director for Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands Lakeisha Hood Moise has announced the availability of the Department’s Single Family Housing Home Repair Loans and Grants in Presidentially Declared Disaster Areas Pilot Program to make it easier for people in rural areas across Florida to access loans and grants to repair homes damaged by presidentially declared disasters through the conclusion of the pilot on July 18, 2025.
As a part of the pilot, which was introduced in the aftermath of the calendar year 2022 disasters, USDA made a number of changes to its Single Family Housing Home Repair Program, including:
• Increasing the maximum grant amount from $10,000 to $15,000.
• Loans and grants can be combined for up to $55,000 in assistance.
• Refinancing debt and reimbursing repair costs incurred as a result of the natural disaster and prior to the date of the application.
• Financing costs to relocate mobile and manufactured homes.
Funds may be used in presidentially declared disaster areas designated most recently as a result of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, as well as those areas that have been subject to natural disasters since July 18, 2022.
The homes must be located in eligible rural areas and presidentially declared disaster areas where individuals and households have also been designated eligible to apply for financial and direct services from FEMA.
Applications must be submitted directly to the Rural Development State Office.
For more information on how to apply, contact the appropriate Area Office found here, https://www.rd.usda.gov/ contact-page/florida-and-virgin-islands-contacts, or visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-familyhousing-programs/single-family-housing-rural-disasterhome-repair-grants.
Cottage Food Laws of Florida
Libby Hopkins
Have you ever thought about owning your own home baking or cooking business? If so, there are a lot of steps that go along with offering your community your delicious chocolate chip cookies or your grandmother’s meatballs.
Many people nowadays own their own private cooking business, but there are many requirements that must be met before you take your business public. The Florida Cottage Food Laws are your guidelines on how to get your start.
So, what are Cottage Food Laws? Cottage Food Laws are laws that certain states have passed concerning the production of certain types of foodstuffs for sale without a commercial license. These rules might also be called Home-Food Processing Rules or Baker’s Bills. Cottage Food Laws are for people who want to sell shelf-stable and low-risk food products from their home without the necessity of a commercial kitchen or regulatory inspections. Typically, the Department of Health or the Department of Agriculture approves and oversees cottage food businesses.
Florida Cottage Food Laws incorporate some of the best features to encourage entrepreneurship. Florida is among those states that make it easy to start your own cottage food business.
Cottage food operations do not require a license or permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and are not inspected by any state government entity. Florida Cottage Food Laws do not require you to register or do anything other than begin selling.
However, they do have rules on what you can and can’t serve, the maximum you can make annually, and require you to follow any local codes for business licensing, zoning, and other requirements. Always contact your local city/county office and verify if a business license is required prior to starting (https://cottagefoodlaws.com/).
Foods manufactured under the cottage food law are limited to products that are considered a low risk for causing foodborne illness. Many products are not allowed to be manufactured under the cottage food law because they require time/
temperature control for food safety to limit pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation.
Examples of products allowed to be sold as cottage foods are loaf bread, rolls, biscuits cakes, pastries, and cookies, candies, and confections, honey, jams, jellies, preserves, fruit pies, dried fruits, dry herbs, seasonings, and mixtures. Homemade pasta, cereals, trail mixes and granola, coated or uncoated nuts, vinegar, and flavored vinegar popcorn and popcorn balls are also included
Cottage food operators may sell cottage food products on their website, by mail order, and direct to consumers in person. Cottage food products cannot be sold wholesale. They must be properly packaged and labeled.
Cottage food operators can serve free samples for tasting, but the samples must be prepackaged. A cottage food operation must comply with all state or federal tax laws, rules, regulations, or certificates that apply to all cottage food operations. Gross sales for a cottage food operation must not exceed $250,000 annually (https://www.fdacs.gov/BusinessServices/Food/Food-Establishments/Cottage-Foods).
If you would like to learn more about the Cottage Food Law of Florida, you can visit the Florida Department of Agriculture’s website at www.fdacs.gov.
GRANTS AND GIVING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO REPLACE, REPAIR HURRICANE-DAMAGED FLORIDA 4-H YOUTH PROJECTS
By Meredith Bauer
After a hurricane, it can be challenging for Florida 4-H youth to rebuild their damaged or destroyed projects. Chicken coops get blown away. Hog pens collapse. Bee colonies get flooded.
To help participants fix these problems, Florida 4-H is offering up to $400 4-H Serves grants to youth affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton, or other natural disasters, said Caylin Hilton, director of development and external relations for the Florida 4-H Foundation. These grants are made possible through donations to the foundation.
“We have members and families across the state whose homes and 4-H projects have been decimated by these storms,” she said. “We have members, clubs, and volunteers who have lost animals, entire bee colonies, barns and coops, feed, and other project supplies.”
In addition to restoring damaged 4-H projects and with the leadership of the state’s 4-H teen leadership council, the 4-H Serves Florida project also collected critical items to support families and communities impacted by the recent hurricanes, including non-perishable food, water, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies like gloves, masks, bleach, and trash bags.
Items were collected at Extension offices across the state, and delivered to impacted communities, especially in the Big Bend and Tampa Bay region.
Members, clubs, and counties impacted by natural disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton can apply online for a $400 grant. Projects must be educational and for the benefit of enrolled Florida 4-H members. To apply, please visit tinyurl.com/4Hservesapp.
These grants are funded by donations to the foundation, which serves the entire state. Contributions to this fund are welcome and can be made online at tinyurl. com/4Hserves. Checks payable to Florida 4-H Foundation may be mailed to P.O. Box 110225, Gainesville, FL 32611.
Burke Foster, Florida 4-H State Council officer, said Florida 4-H reminds people about our individual and collective responsibility to our communities.
“Through the 4-H Serves project I hope we can make a positive impact on our state and show that with a little cooperation, great things can happen,” he said.
Recipes
Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Florida Strawberry or Blueberry Pop Pastry
Ingredients q q
2 ½ cups fresh Florida strawberries (or blueberries), diced
2 tablespoon Florida sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
1 teaspoon water
1 cup confectioners sugar
1 box pie dough, store bought
florida Strawberry or Blueberry Icebox Pie
Ingredients q q
4 cups fresh Florida strawberries, sliced (or blueberries)
1 tablespoon Florida sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
3 cups heavy whipping cream
DIRECTIONS
1/4 cup confectioners sugar
1 teaspooon vanilla extract
8 to 10 full sheets of graham crackers, roughly crushed
Chef Justin Timineri
DIRECTIONS
In a small sauce pot over medium-low heat, combine 2 cups diced strawberries, corn starch, lemon juice, sugar, and vanilla extract. Cook, while stirring, until a sauce has formed, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. Reserve ¼ cup of the strawberry mixture to make the glaze.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Unroll the pie dough and cut out 4 matching rectangles. In a small bowl mix the egg and water to create an egg-wash. Place an even amount of the strawberry mixture to the center of half of the rectangles, and do not overfill. Leave a clean edge around the dough to seal properly. Place another piece of the
cut pie dough on top of the mixture and use the tines of a fork to seal. Transfer the pastries to a parchment lined cookie sheet. Use a pastry brush to apply a thin layer of the egg-wash. Sprinkle each pastry with the remaining sugar. Bake for 7-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
In a small bowl mash the reserved berry mixture with a fork. In another bowl, add in 1 cup confectioners’ sugar and a small amount of the strawberry mixture, stir until completely combined. Adjust consistency with more confectioners’ sugar or strawberry sauce. Drizzle each tart with the glaze.
In a small sauce pot over medium-low heat, combine 2 cups sliced berries, corn starch, lemon juice, sugar, and lemon zest. Cook, while stirring, until a sauce has formed, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
In a large mixing bowl add the heavy cream, confectioners sugar, and vanilla extract. Wisk to form stiff peaks.
Line the inside of a 9x5 inch loaf pan with plastic wrap. Extend the plastic wrap over edges, for easier removal.
To assemble, spread an even thin layer of the whipped cream on the bottom. Next add a layer of crushed graham crackers, then a layer of sliced berries then drizzle a layer of the berry sauce. Repeat this process until the pan is full. Cover the pie using the extended plastic wrap and freeze.
Before serving, place the frozen pie in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Use the extended plastic wrap to remove pie from the pan and place on a platter. Slice and serve cold. Garnish with whip cream, crushed graham crackers and/or berry sauce.
HELPING OTHERS DURING THE HURRICANES
If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times, my deputies are simply the best. They worked around the clock before, during, and after two major hurricanes in less than a month, and I couldn’t be more proud of all the hard work they’ve done to help serve and protect their community and neighboring communities as well.
When Hurricane Helene hit our neighbors in the panhandle, our deputies and civilian support staff hit the road the next morning to render aid to the people of Taylor County. We brought deputies to assist the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office in keeping their community safe, our own 9-1-1 operators, food services staff, bunk trailers, showers, and air/water support. Our goal when deploying out of county is to be entirely selfsufficient, so we don’t burden those we are trying to help with our needs.
Our deputies worked checkpoints to prevent looters from victimizing people who lost everything, and they ran regular patrols in our helicopter. We were able to perform water rescues and water recovery of citizens’ belongings and spent time getting to know our wonderful neighbors up north. Our second deployment team was scheduled to head up when we found out that Hurricane Milton was barreling down on us, and we would need all hands on deck at home to keep our Polk County residents safe.
Before Hurricane Milton even hit, we had deputies stationed at every EMS and fire station, ready to step in when the winds got too high for ambulances or fire trucks. We knew this storm would be unpredictable, and our priority was making sure that no one would be stranded without help if they needed it.
We also had our support services teams pre-staged across all corners of the county, equipped with chainsaws and trucks fitted with winches. When those trees came down and the roads got blocked, they went right to work, ensuring every major roadway stayed accessible. By daybreak after the storm, we had every major highway—including 27, 17, 92, I-4, and 98—open so that we could get resources where they were needed most.
In some of the worst-hit areas, our team deployed high-water vehicles—an airboat, swamp buggy, and even a military 5-ton truck—to get into flooded neighborhoods and bring folks to safety. Our teams conducted around 25 rescues, helping people get out of dangerous situations and, if they preferred to stay, delivering supplies directly to their doorsteps.
Even days after Milton hit, our deputies didn’t leave. They stayed in those flooded areas, setting up distribution points, ensuring that residents had food, water, and other essentials, and monitoring the community for ongoing needs.
And here we are, even now, continuing to check on folks and bring food and water to those who chose to stay. This is what community is all about, and I am beyond grateful for the dedication and compassion of my deputies. They’ve shown what it truly means to serve and protect.
By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff
UF EXPERT: WHILE HURRICANES ARE ON YOUR MIND, GET YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTED
By Brad Buck
Hurricanes Helene and Milton left many homeowners with flooded septic tanks. To make sure your system is ready for future storms, a University of Florida scientist has suggestions for you.
“If you are one of those homeowners with a flooded septic system, it’s likely not working properly and should be inspected by a professional as soon as possible,” said Mary Lusk, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of soil, water, and ecosystem sciences. “If your system was not flooded, you can take time now to get an inspection to make sure your system is good before next year’s hurricane season arrives.”
About 2 million Florida homes – or about 30 percent of the state’s residents -- rely on septic to treat wastewater, Lusk said. When they flood, they can fill with debris and must be professionally cleaned.
“You can’t really prevent flood damage,” said Lusk, author of a new Ask IFAS document on septic systems (https://edis. ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ss739). “If it happens, it happens. But take time during the hurricane offseason to make sure your system has been regularly pumped and inspected. We recommend doing this about every three years or so.”
In addition to an inspection, here are two more tips for the future:
• Next year, if a hurricane is forecast, reduce water use in your home as much as possible in the days leading up to the storm. This will reduce the amount of waste your system has to treat during that vulnerable time when soils may flood.
• Purchase a temporary toilet or toilet seat that you can use on a bucket, so you’ll be prepared in case your lot floods, and you have to stop using your household toilet. These can often be found in the camping sections of sporting goods stores or at online vendors.
Septic systems are made of two parts: a septic tank and a drain field.
Flooding associated with hurricanes can decrease the depth of unsaturated soil in a drain field and thus lower the ability of
the septic system to work properly, Lusk said.
“Septic systems rely on unsaturated soils to safely remove germs from human waste, and a flooded lot with a septic system means a lot that isn’t doing its No. 1 human health job,” she said.
When Milton roared through Florida, dumping more than a foot of rain in some places, it rendered some septic tanks ineffective.
Flooding from a hurricane can mean a system that is not usable for days or weeks, while the homeowner waits for flood water to go away, said Lusk, a faculty member at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center.
“This makes it very hard to live a normal day-to-day life because the homeowner has to find other ways to dispose of household wastewater, including toilet waste,” she said.
For now, if you still have flooding on your lot, limit household water use as much as possible and consider portable toilets or making temporary toilets from buckets so you’re not adding new material to the system, she said.
FFA TEAMS
BARTOW MIDDLE FFA
At Bartow Middle School students of all backgrounds participate in community parades, Polk County Youth Fair, Hands-On learning at the school land laboratory, Ag Certification Testing, State Convention, and so much more. There are 9 FFA officers currently serving at Bartow Middle School and this is what they said they were excited for this year. The officer team is excited to participate at the local Polk County Youth Fair. This is because Bartow encourages involvement with student Supervised Agriculture Experience projects. The proof alone can be seen at the land lab. The Ag Department has 37 swine projects, 3 rabbits, over 80 plants, and various vegetables currently being grown. These projects are exhibited at the Polk County Youth Fair in January. The students at Bartow Middle are excited to show what they’ve learned and taken responsibility for in and out of school. According to Vice President Bentley Love, he is excited to see fellow FFA members from across the county at the Youth Fair. Bentley always enjoys the conferences and making new connections with so many people. Throughout the year President Savannah DeLeon looks forward to competing in the various contest. The one she is looking forward to the most is Opening and Closing Ceremonies as the officer team works together so well with each other. Every officer is excited for a successful year in FFA.
KATHLEEN MIDDLE FFA
Hi everyone, we are Kathleen Middle FFA! We are very excited about this school year and the FFA events to come with it. One of our favorite contests we compete in together is OCC (Opening Closing Ceremonies). Two years ago, we made it to the state contest and that’s our goal again this year. This year our chapter is competing in many events including Nursery & Landscape, Poultry, Citrus, Livestock, Creed, and Extemp. We also have lots of exhibitors for the Polk County Youth Fair and Central Florida Youth in Agriculture, showing pigs, cattle, goats, chickens, rabbits, etc. One thing we are looking forward to this year is going to State Convention again in June. We always have such a good time there and it is a great time to reflect on all we accomplished during the school year.
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