2
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
3
®
Contents
VOL. 7 • ISSUE 2
POLK COUNTY
CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831-9005
Cover Story
OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Florida Ranch Rodeo
President - Charles Clark
Page 34 Cover photo by Kathy Gregg
Master Gardener
(863) 528-8537 cclark@expoco.com Vice President - Dave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 cattlemanslivetock@earthlink.net Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch (863) 425-1121 jbunch@agriumretail.com
Page 10
Al Bellotto - (863) 581-5515
Ashley White
Ray Clark - (863) 683-8196 rclark@tampabay.rr.com
Page 11 Pomegranates
Page 12
L.B. Flanders, DVM - (863) 644-5974 Dewey Fussell - (863) 984-3782 Mike Fussell - (863) 698-8314 fussell.flafarm@verizon.net
Tampa Bay’s Fishing Report
David McCullers - (863) 528-1195
Page 14
Moby Persing - (863) 528-4379
Seeing The Old Florida
Page 17 Polk County Sheriff’s Office
Page 18 Rocking Chair Chatter
Page 22 Kelly White
Page 29 Brandon Page
Page 37 Grub Station
Ned Waters - (863) 698-1597 watersn@doacs.state.fl.us J.B. Wynn - (863) 581-3255 jbwynn29@gmail.com Alternate - Mike Facente - (863) 697-9419 Standing Committee Chairs: Membership - J.B. Wynn Events - Kevin Fussell (863) 412-5876 Rodeo - Fred Waters (863) 559-7808 watersf@doacs.state.fl.us Cattlewomen - President Marjorie Wood (863) 660-4137 onnie397@aol.com Extension - Bridget Carlisle (863) 519-8677 bccarlis@ufl.edu Sheriff’s Dept. - Sgt. Howard Martin
Page 40 Recipes
Page 42 4
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
5
From the Editor
ITFM Staff PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHY Karen Berry EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Al Berry SENIOR MANAGING EDITOR/ ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Sarah Holt
I don’t often get in to discussions regarding politics. We have all heard that friends who want to stay friends don’t discuss politics. Sometimes it is essential to discuss politics, just remember to state the facts and don’t get in to heated discussions with those who have completely opposite opinions. You probably aren’t going to change their minds anyway. I recently found myself in a discussion with a friend regarding politics. We were, thankfully, on the same page in regards to the candidate we were discussing. My decision had long been made in this regard. However, if it hadn’t been, if I had been on the fence, what my friend brought to my attention would have definitely solidified my vote. I’m not here to tell you how to vote. But I would encourage everyone to do their homework. Ask questions. Find out what the candidates can do for you, this great nation, your state, your county, all the way down to the community in which you live. Most of all, I encourage you to take the extra step and go vote. While this seems a given, many people think things like, my one vote won’t count. But if thousands, or even hundreds feel the same way, it can absolutely make a difference in the outcome. Many men and women have fought and died so that we can live in the land of the free. We have opportunities that many countries don’t have. Exercise one of these and get off the couch and vote. Your livelihood could, and probably does depend on it.
Until Next Month,
Sarah
The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. –Numbers 6:25
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 Cattlemen’s Association & Florida Citrus Mutual. 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.
6
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
EDITOR Patsy Berry OFFICE MANAGER Bob Hughens SALES MANAGER Danny Crampton SALES Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton Calli Jo Parker CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mona Jackson PHOTOGRAPHY Karen Berry Al Berry Stephanie Humphrey STAFF WRITERS Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankwoiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Libby Hopkins Callie Jo Parker Lindsey English CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Woody Gore Les McDowell
Index of Advertisers Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers ........................44 Arrington Body Shop, Inc ..........43 Ballclover ...................................19 Carlton & Carlton, PA ..............28 Cecil Breeding Farms .................30 Chemical Containers..................39 Chemical Dynamics .....................3 Cornfusion.................................21 Denise Grimsley .........................19 Discount Metals.........................39 Ellison RBM Inc. .......................43 Farm Credit .................................9 Fields Equipment Co. Inc...........43 Florida Farm & Ranch Supply.............................43 Florida Dept. of Agriculture.......16 Florida Mineral & Salt ..............23 Fred’s Market.............................19 Grove Equipment ...............3 & 15 Gulf Coast Turf & Tractor ........48 Halfacre Construction Company ...7 Harold’s Feed & Pet Supply.......23 Helena Chemical-Tampa............31 Hinton Farms Produce, Inc. .......31 International Market World.......28 John Hall ...................................25 Key Plex.......................................2 Kinkaid Auction.........................15 Lake Miriam Pawn ....................26 Lightsey Cattle Co. ....................11 Mosaic .......................................24 NCBA ........................................41 Oddessa Rodeo & Festival...........5 Pathway .....................................20 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association ...............4 Polk Equine, PL ...........................7 Polk Land Surveying, Inc ...........13 Repair Solutions.........................43 Ring Power Corporation............36 Seedway .....................................36 Shoot Straight ............................33 Sky Powersports of Lake Wales...36 Southeastern Septic, LLC ...........24 Southwestern Produce................27 Stephanie Humphrey....................9 Stingray Chevrolet .....................47 The Bug Man...............................7 Warner University ......................11
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
You Too, Can Be A Winner
Hey Readers, hidden somewhere in the magazine is a No Farmers, No Food logo. Hunt for the logo and once you find the hidden logo you will be eligible for a drawing to win a FREE No Farmers No Food Sticker. Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the number of the page which you found the logo and where on that page you located the logo to: W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
InTheField速 Magazine P.O. Box 5377 Plant City, FL 33566-0042
Winners will be notified by phone. You Too Can Be A Winner! Search for the logo below and enter now!
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
7
You are probably tired of seeing and hearing all the
Recently, the Stormwater Assessment Fee proposal was
campaign commercials by now. Most of them are
a good example of what this type of dialogue can
sound bytes and clips that put a favorable slant on
achieve. The fee was to begin being collected this fall.
the candidate it supports or a negative twist on their
The proposed budget for the county included the
opponent. It is hard to sort out who would be the best
expenditure of those funds. Prior to the preliminary
person for the job. I urge you to look past these clips
budget hearing, phone calls were made to county offi-
and try to learn as much as you can about the individ-
cials, and a large contingent of property owners spoke
ual candidates. Inform yourself about their views and
against the item at the hearing. Commissioners voted
then vote. Even after the election, stay informed and
unanimously to remove the item from the budget.
stay in touch with the governmental officials. They do
While you may not get a favorable result each time
listen, when you put forth your opinion in a logical,
you express your opinion, that is a part of the
respectful, matter of fact dialogue.
American process of give and take and compromise.
Charles Clark Charles Clark Polk County Cattlemen’s Association President
8
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
• A square piece of dry paper cannot be folded in half more than 7 times. • Air becomes liquid at about minus 190 degrees Celsius. • Liquid air looks like water with a bluish tint. • A scientific satellite needs only 250 watts of power, the equivalent used by two-hour light bulbs, to operate. • The thin line of cloud that forms behind an aircraft at high altitudes is called a contrail. • The word “biology” was coined in 1805 by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck. • Water expands by about 9% as it freezes. • In a desert, a mirage is caused when air near the ground is hotter than air higher up. As light from the sun passes from cooler to warmer air, it speeds up and is refracted upward, creating the image of water. • The typical bolt of lightning heats the atmosphere to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. • Saturday mail delivery in Canada was eliminated by Canada Post on February 1, 1969. • The Mona Lisa has no eyebrows. It was the fashion in Renaissance Florence to shave them off.
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
9
expression of color after 5-10 leaves.
By Debra Howell
F
oliage is the colorful calling card of the popular Caladium. Tropical by native, these plants grow wild along Brazilian riverbanks. You can imagine the spectacle created on Amazonian waterways by the leaves provided by Caladium. It’s this impressive display which makes the Caladium a big bedding plant in Texas. This plant may be grown in many hardiness zones, including summers in the Ithaca, New York. Commercially, Caladiums are cultivated on muck soils in rural areas around Lake Placid and Zolfo Springs. In the early 1940s, Caladiums began to be cultivated in the muck soils around Lake Placid. Now, some 14 families, farm about 1,200 acres, with much of the average along the rich southern shores of Lake Istopoga, as well as around Wauchula and Zolfo Springs. These fields, spectacular when leaves are present, have been compared to the alluvial tulip fields in Holland. The Caladium growers are true agronomists and impassioned for their “field of work.” A Caladium Festival is held annually in Lake Placid, usually during the last week of August and presented by the local Chamber of Commerce. At a recent Master Gardener meeting, Mike Woods of Classic Caladiums provided technical information on these interesting plants. For instance, they require regular watering, and plants with large leaves need more water. In addition, thick leaves will tolerate more sun, whereas thin leaves need filtered sunlight. They are referred to as Fancy Leaf which has the petiole in the middle of the leaf. The Strap Leaf type has the petiole at the back rim of the leaf. The petiole is the point at which the stem joins the leaf. Tubers come in 4 sizes: mammoth, jumbo, #1 and #2. You may plant Caladium tubers the first week of March in Central Florida, with newly germinated seedlings having an 10
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
These plants are sensitive below 50 degrees. In northern countries, you’ll need to remove from the ground to overwinter them. However, this may be avoided by growing them in a container and simply taking the pot in your garage. Now here’s a super tip: If container planting, you’ll probably wish to de-eye the tubers dominant eye. The flower is borne on the dominant eye, so removing this with a sharp knife will fence axillary bugs, which will yield more leaves. Right now I have a ceramic pot which fairly teems with red and green Freida Hemple leaves. To extend your bloom season, try succession planting by adding more tubers of the same variety to prolong the leaf season. I tried that tactic this year and have had excellent results. Caladiums are great centerpieces or mounding plants and occur in sizes 6 to 30 inches tall. Caladiums are terrific for container culture, and some recommended cultivars are Carolyn Wharton, Fire Chief, Lord Derby and Seagull. The lovely leaves come in green, red, pink, and white and at certain times during the day appear to be internally lit. I usually remove leaves which have fallen to the ground, are starting to wither and which come away easily. Bear in mind that Caladium tubers and plants are poisonous, so wear gloves when handling them. (I wonder how the marauding squirrels get around that fact?) The plants will grow year round from central Florida south, if you do the succession planting. They may be grown in north Florida and, in fact throughout America, if you dig, clean and store them in the fall, to be replanted in the spring for gorgeous summer color. Soft, spongy tubers usually have been damaged by the cold.
already stated, do your research to determine mature plant size so your plants won’t outgrow their location or the surrounding landscape plants. Remember to plant them two inches deep, 18 inches apart and with the growing points facing upward. The plants grow best in moist, well-drained soils. Commercial growers cultivate in the mucky soils in south central Florida right out in full sun. This practice causes faded leaf colors but is apparently very beneficial to the tubers. I never find much leaf damage to my plants except that of splashing rainwater or perhaps from the mandibles of the dreaded Eastern Lubber Grasshopper. But they may also get aphids, thrips, snails and slugs. If you experience these problems, just apply an appropriate insecticide according to package directions. You may use Caladiums in hanging baskets with such plants as Coleus, or you might want a mass planting bed with correspondingly colored blooming plants, or use them as a very splashy border planting. Following planting, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer containing micro-nutrients, (iron, boron, manganese, zinc). Caladiums are pretty thirsty, and will let you know when they need a drink by wilting abruptly. And of course, they’ll need more water if container grown. If you do grow them in a pot, make sure you have good quality potting soil. Mulching will allow the Caladiums to remain moist but not damp. It also helps to abate weed growth. Please use mulch from a renewable resource such as pine chips or pine needles, or even the oak leaves from your yard. Caladiums look sensational with Begonias, Flax lilies, Red Sister, Crotons, Geraniums, Impatiens and Pinwheel jasmine. Caladium hortulanum grower Mike Woods has a protégé named Dr. Robert Hartman. Dr. Hartman is a Caladium breeder who grows all University of Florida varieties and tests them. He pollinates these beauties with a paintbrush! What a unique and amazing way to carve out your niche in life.
Caladiums in your yard should be located in direct morning sun for three or four hours a day, or in filtered sunlight. Plant your tubers into ground beds after all danger of frost is past. These plants are available as tubers, seedlings and full-sized plants. As I’ve
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
father, Ken Allen, teaches an equestrian program at Summerland Academy in Bartow. He is donating the horse from his farm, High Gates Farms, in Fort Meade for White to use for her two-day a week program at the middle school.
Ashley White Getting Ready to Ride By Libby Hopkins
A
griculture teachers never have the same day twice. One day they might be in a classroom and the next they might be teaching their students about horses, including how to ride them. That’s the hope of Ashley White, agriculture teacher and FFA leader at McLaughlin Middle School in Lake Wales. She is starting an equestrian program at the middle school. White grew up around horses, but her biggest love was agriculture. “I love horses, grew up on a farm and couldn’t wait to be a part of FFA when I got to high school because it wasn’t offered in middle school,” White said. “So I did 4-H from 8th grade until high school.” She loved her years in FFA and the values that she learned in the program. “The biggest thing for me was the leadership and public speaking skills I learned in FFA because before that, I would have never gotten up in front of people and speak in public,” White said. The equestrian project is something White has wanted to do for along time. Her grand-
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
“They will start with the basics, how to groom and how to lead the horses,” White said. “Eventually they will get on and ride.” Some of White’s other students are a little jealous of the students in her FFA program because they will be getting to work with the horses. “I have six other classes that will be doing various agriculture projects throughout the year and hopefully once they see what the horse class is doing, they will want to get involved,” White said. Her FFA students are just as excited about the horse program as White is and she can’t wait to see how they do with the horses. She handpicked the 20 FFA students to be her beginner’s class and hopes that they will be able to move up to another level by next year and eventually be the advanced class. “None of the kids have horse riding experience,” White said. She hopes by the end of the school year they will be confident enough to get on a horse and ride. White wants to eventually teach her students how to compete in horse competitions, including dressage. She believes being a member of FFA will give them their confidence. The mission of FFA is to making a positive difference in the lives of their students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agriculture education. The FFA program also develops interpersonal skills in teamwork, communications, human relations and social interaction. White has seen all of these characteristics develop in her FFA students.
“I have seen these kids come out of their shell and become leaders,” White said. “The other kids around the school look up to them.” Her FFA students have become agriculture role models for the school. Her FFA officers did a community service project where they filled backpacks with school supplies to distribute to other schools in the area. During the Christmas holidays, they do a canned food drive, as well, for the community. The school’s administration has White’s FFA students help with school functions because they have set such a good example by being part of the program. White also teaches her agriculture students the importance of keeping business local and giving back to the community, just like she does with her FFA students. In her agriculture classes, she begins with an “Intro to Agriculture” unit where she shows how important agriculture is to the United States. She then breaks the unit down to how agriculture is important to the state of Florida and then how it is important to the economy of Lake Wales. “The kids grow their own vegetables and they take pride in what they grow,” White said. She believes that agriculture education and FFA prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices. For more information on the FFA program at McLaughlin Middle School, you can visit them on the web at www.polk-fl.net. The school is located at 800 S. 4th Street in Lake Wales. •
s
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2012
11
Pomegranates An Alternative Crop for Florida Farms BY KATHY SNYDER
T
hrough the ages the pomegranate has been referred to as “the fruit of the gods” and thought to have been the “forbidden” fruit instead of the apple when Eve was tempted in the Garden of Eden. It is a supported belief that the pomegranate was native to Iran and the Himalayas in Northern India, then cultivated over the whole Mediterranean region of Asia, Africa and Europe, migrating as far east as China where it has been nurtured since the pre-Christian era. Pomegranates have been part of human culture for thousands of years, not only as fruit with medicinal qualities, but also represented royalty, fertility and a symbol of wealth in varying ancient cultures. The pomegranate has been idealized in many art forms, from silver and goldsmiths creating vases and urns for Egyptian pharaohs, to being incorporated into the royal coat of arms at the onset of the marriage of England’s King Henry VIII to Catherine of Aragon, daughter of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain. It is also said that Henry planted the first pomegranate tree in Britain.
12
ered this ancient fruit as pomegranates have become more widely available across the United States. Pomegranates are embraced for their sweet taste, plentiful juice, health benefits and culinary versatility. The pomegranate is now making its come back in the state of Florida. Although primarily an edible landscape planting over the years (in fact, one plant near Marianna, Florida, has been verified to be more than 100 years old) many citrus grove owners are planting several different varieties of pomegranates as an alternative crop to citrus. Dr. William Castle, retired professor emeritus from the University of Florida/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center, and a team of researchers and growers, began the pomegranate project in 2008 for the purpose of evaluating the potential of pomegranates in Florida at the Citrus Research and Education Center and at Water Conserv II located in Winter Garden. Since the projects inception, interest has grown incredibly and the project has been opened up to homeowners and hobbyists since 2010.
The Post-Christian era brought the pomegranate to North America and the first recording of planting were by Spanish missionaries IN FLORIDA! The Spanish and other Mediterranean cultures recognized the pomegranate as a versatile and important food source, also using the precious fruit for medicinal purposes to fight worms and other ailments. The pomegranate stayed in Florida until the late 1800s when a Porterville, California farmer by the name of Bearrs brought cuttings from Florida to California. This was the first productive cultivar in California and he named it “Wonderful” for its sweet and juicy arils, and deep rich red color.
A group of small farmers, nursery owners, and citrus grove owners looking for alternative crops, all from different areas around the state, with the help of Dr. Castle, have created the Florida Pomegranate Association. As stated in their recruitment brochure, “The Florida Pomegranate Association was chartered on March 1, 2012 as a professional organization for the purpose of fostering a pomegranate industry. Its intention is to provide a forum for sharing information and experience among members, to support research and to assist in evaluation and development of cultivars and best management practices suited for Florida.”
More than 100 years after the pomegranate was first propagated in California, today’s health conscious consumers have rediscov-
The rapidly growing Florida Pomegranate Association held its first annual meeting at the Ben Hill Griffin Citrus Hall, University
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
of Florida/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center located in Lake Alfred, on September 14, with an attendance of approximately 120 interested growers both large and small, commercial to homeowner, from around the state. Excited with the prospect of a new crop for Florida, attendees were able to view information on popular varieties of pomegranates that are producing from available nurseries throughout Florida, talk with vendors about supplies, fertilizers, herbicides, etc. and the opportunity to listen to researchers and fellow growers’ present hopeful finding for pomegranate futures in Florida. During registration, attendees were able to talk among themselves, make new contacts and see the different consumer products containing pomegranates. FPA members provided fresh juices, juice blends, pomegranate flavored waters, Greek yogurt with pomegranate, chocolate covered pomegranate arils (just about the size of a chocolate covered cranberry), gummy pomegranate children’s snacks, etc. Cindy Weinstein, President of the Florida Pomegranate Association, welcomed everyone to the first annual meeting of the association leading the way to the first guest speaker, Mike Stuart of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association. Mr. Stuart’s presentation showed how Florida, through its diversity in agricultural crops, is the top third in the nation in 16 different commodities but number one in oranges, tomatoes, sugarcane, bell peppers, grapefruit, sweet corn, snap beans, watermelons, cucumbers, and squash. “The future is you,” he stated. “New, high value crops will lead the way to future industry growth and prosperity. Strawberries in the 80s-90s, Blueberries in the 90s-2000s, and Pomegranates in the 2010s-2020s??? IFAS research and extension can lead the way and with the help from the Farm Bill, provide potential resources to fuel research agendas in areas like the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program ($4.4 million annually); marketing and promotion; pest and disease research; and new and improved varieties,” stated Mr. Stuart. Jeff Moersfelder from the USDA National Clonal Germplasm Repository, gave insight to the Repository and its mission. It is one of 32 federally funded repositories in the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) with a mission to “Acquire, Conserve, Evaluate and Distribute crop species assigned to the NCGR.” Their research includes seed vs. clonal, as well as field and containerized collections. W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
The group broke for lunch provided by a local catering service, Celebrations by Sheilan. In addition to lunch, attendees were able to participate in taste testing varieties grown in Florida, California and Georgia and leave their comments on tablets provided. Other areas covered in the afternoon session included presentations on marketing and health benefits presented by Dr. Lisa House,
Kathleen Bryant had more to say about what that consumer segment Dr. House spoke of is looking for. Pomegranates have been known to be rich in antioxidant content for heart health, decreasing inflammation and thickening of the artery walls, reducing buildup of plaque, and the reduction in blood cholesterol and blood pressure just to name a few key heart issues.
“One medium pomegranate contains100 calories, 26 grams of carbohydrate, is an excellent source of Vitamin C and K, and is a good source of fiber, potassium, thiamin, folate, manganese and copper. Phytochemicals, which are produced by the plant, work together to protect cells against aging and inflammation and 122 have been identified in the pomegranate.” Director, Florida Agriculture Market Research Center and Kathleen Bryant, UF Cooperative Extension, Volusia County, for both fresh and processed pomegranate fruit and the specialized fresh market for both arils and juice. “Your niche is a small consumer segment with narrowly defined needs,” stated Dr. House. House said one of the foundations of a successful marketing program is having a firm grip on cost. “You must know your costs to be better able to control them,” she said. As with citrus, there are a number of by-products that are used in the making of dyes for fabric and leather, and feed for cattle, that has the potential to open up additional product markets.
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Dr. Mongi Zekri, UF Cooperative Extension, Hendry County, Mickey Page, Research Farm Manager, Mid Florida Citrus Foundation, and Dr. Bill Castle, UF/IFAS Professor Emeritus, presented their hands on research with numerous varieties of pomegranates in various areas of the state. “Fertilizer requirements for pomegranate trees are similar to those for citrus,” explained Dr. Zekri, as he showed a photo of pomegranate trees growing in alternate rows with citrus. Dr. Juan Diaz-Perez, Professor, UGA, Tifton, GA and John Tanner, Georgia Pomegranate Association, were also invited guest speakers, sharing their pomegranate research from somewhat colder climate.
With great expectations for a future crop, both growers and researchers alike are learning every day how to obtain the best pomegranate crop for market to come from this state. “We are excited about the turnout for our first meeting and the overall interest in growing pomegranates here in our state,” said Cindy Weinstein, president of the Florida Pomegranate Association. Cindy and her husband, David, are owner/operators of Green Sea Farms in Zolfo Springs and pomegranate growers with four acres of the crop planted in which 75 varieties are being evaluated. More information about the Florida Pomegranate Association and nurseries or to purchase pomegranates send an email to flpomegranate@gmail.com To read more about ongoing pomegranate research visit http:/ / www.crec.ifas.ufl.edu/ extension/ pomegranates
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2012
13
MirrOMullet Top Dog Jr.
by Captain Woody Gore
I
f we get lucky, we get some nice dryer air this month as fall is just around the corner. It seems like this is the time of the year when I have to put a jacket back in the boat for the early morning ride to get bait, especially if the wind is blowing. The water will start cooling down and the fish should start getting a little more excited about being fish. The bite has been exceptional during the last weeks of September and I expect it to continue right through the Fall. You can expect good catches using live bait and artificial lures all over Tampa Bay. If you’re interested in some exciting early morning action, tie on a new 16MR MirrOMullet Surface Walker or Top Dog Jr. from MirrOLure and walk-the-dog across a calm morning grass flat. The anticipation will kill you waiting for the next explosive strike of a large Snook or the water moving swirl of a stalking Redfish. A topwater lure strike is more than exhilarating… it’ll almost stop you heart. From other articles, you’ve probably surmised that when it comes to fishing, artificial lures are close to my heart. There is something magical about tricking a fish into striking something that’s alien looking at best. I often think the stranger the lure the better chance of getting a strike. Over the years I’ve used everything imaginable to catch fish. Live baits, artificial lures, and plastic straws. I’ve even used a strip of old white tee shirt to catch spotted sea trout and I’ve come to this conclusion… if it has action and looks wounded, something’s going to try and eat it.
There are plenty of redfish, and snook are all over the area, hanging around the many lush grass flats and mangrove shorelines. As redfish move back into the Bay it’s usually fairly easy to find them schooled up on the many grass flats covering the Bay. It’s also the time of the year when some of the big redfish start showing up. You never know whether you’re going to a catch one in the slot or one of the giants over 30 inches, so be prepared. These big reds often top the scales at 12 to 14 pounds. The upper Bay area is holding good numbers of fish, but you must pick your tide days carefully when fishing north of the Courtney Campbell Causeway, especially by boat. The area gets extremely shallow on low tide days. Snook are closed on the Gulf Coast. Most of the snook we caught average in the 22 to 25 inch range. For those who like the night life associated with snook fishing, this is a great time. They’re hanging under residential docks watching the light line for a quick meal. Use a shallow diving artificial lure or free-line a big shrimp. Make sure to use a weighty leader like Seaguar 30-40 lb., so you don't get cut off on the pilings. As for the others, expect some good sized mangrove snapper at the bridges with some topping out around three pounds. Cobia are showing up for us. It usually only takes a chum bag over the side to spark their
curiosity. If you hook-up, be ready with another rod and bait as other cobias will be following the action. Mackerel, bluefish, jacks and ladyfish will be feeding on bait schools everywhere. If its glass minnows they’re after, try to match the hatch. Never turn your fishing nose up at ladyfish and jacks, especially when kids are involved, they can certainly make or break a trip. Most children are not interested in fishing, however they are interested in catching and they don’t care what it is. When you take kids fishing make sure it’s all about them catching fish. You’ll get your turn when you and your buds get out.
Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing 813-477-3817 Captain Woody Gore is the areas top outdoor fishing guide. Guiding and fishing the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, and Bradenton for over fifty years; he offers world class fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories. Single or Multi-boat Group Charters are all the same. With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Just tell him what you need and it’s done. Visit his website at: WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM or send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com or give him a call at 813-477-3814.
Try your hand at something man-made on your next fishing trip. You’ll be surprised at how many fish you’ll catch and how much fun you’ll have doing it. 14
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
15
16
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Seeing The Old Florida WARNER UNIVERSITY Now is your chance! Warner University, after speaking with leaders in the agriculture industry, parents and students, is starting an Agricultural Studies Degree! The program will kick off in the Fall of 2013, but there are already Ag students enrolled, starting out this year with their general education requirements. To help with the program, The Brahma Island Family Day, hosted by the Lightsey Cattle Company will be held December 1. But it is so much more than a fundraiser. This is your chance to get an up close and personal tour of Brahma Island, home to 28 protected species and a prime example of Florida agriculture’s commitment to sustaining our environment by being part of the conservation easement program. When people think of Florida they often think of beaches and Disney World. This is your chance to see Florida as it used to be, a place of wild beauty, with a variety of animal species roaming the land, huge oak trees reach skyward, forming a canopy of hammocks with welcoming shade from the Florida sun. Old Florida is palmetto thickets, alligators, bald eagles and snail kits. Old Florida is, simply put, stunning. And Brahma Island is old Florida. Many involved in the agriculture industry are already on board with Warner University’s Ag Program. “The Florida Specialty Crop Foundation is pleased to participate in the inception of the new Ag studies program at Warner University. We strive to support young people who are pursuing a career in agriculture, and this is a promising program to support that. It provides another avenue for high school graduates who want to become more involved in agriculture, which is critical to this state and our organization. Warner University has done a tremendous job of ramping of this program in a very short period of time. And they found a wonderful director for the program in Lauren Lewis, who is working so hard to make our industry aware of this program,” said Sonia Tighe, Executive Director of the Florida Specialty Crop Foundation.
Also, very interesting to me is the way you plan to have Ag students involved in their major their freshman year to keep them motivated through the basics of the first two years.” During the event, the plans for the Agricultural Studies Program will be on display, including a model of the facilities designed by architect Scott Crews, as well as the degree curriculum. “The support and encouragement from the Florida agriculture industry for the Agricultural Studies degree program has been humbling and overwhelming. I have enjoyed meeting with industry leaders who are dedicated to the future of the agriculture workforce and are willing to partner with our new program. More so though, I am thrilled to welcome students on campus enrolling in the Ag Studies major. The future of the program is promising, and I am blessed to be involved,” said Lauren Lewis, Director of Agriculture Studies at Warner University. There will also be children’s activities, live and silent auctions, and a presentation by the Commissioner of Agriculture, Adam Putnam and Carey Lightsey. In addition you will be served a delicious lunch! Tickets can be purchased by contacting Lauren Lewis at lauren.lewis@warner.edu or 863-638-7116, or Doris Gukich, VP of Advancement, at doris.gukich@warner.edu or 863-638-7611. Tickets are $200 per adult and includes admission for accompanied children under the age of 18. Make this a family event! It is certain to be educational as well as entertaining.
A prospective student wrote, “I am graduating from Lake Placid High School (Highlands Co.) this coming June 2013. I noticed on your website your new Ag program and am very interested. I have friends that graduated from Warner and sing it's praises. I very much like the idea of a smaller school and the Christian values. W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
17
Commercial Dumping Arrest and New Special Operations Captain By Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd
O
n Thursday, September 27, 2012, Polk County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural deputies arrested 51-year-old Chad Hunt of Lake Alfred charging him with Commercial Dumping of tires. The tires had been dumped in March. Hunt told deputies he had been disposing of waste tires for approximately 15 years and has been arrested multiple times for illegal dumping of waste tires. Hunt is currently on probation for Illegal Dumping. Illegal dumping is a violation of Florida State Statute 403.161. Environmental deputies made a total of 49 arrests in illegal dumping cases in the first six months of 2011. In addition, Environmental deputies issued 92 affidavits charging suspects with illegal dumping in Polk County. Illegal dumping isn’t just unsightly, it threatens our quality of life. Refuse, which is not properly disposed, is a hazard to people and animals. And property values can dramatically decrease as a result of illegal dump sites. Deputies in the PCSO Environmental Unit take these cases seriously, and encourage agriculture property owners to make frequent checks of isolated acreage checking for possible dumping. Grove and pasture owners are reminded to call deputies when they find illegal dumping on their property before attempting to clean up the refuse – deputies can determine if any of the evidence can lead them back to the suspect responsible for the dumping.
18
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
Hunt has an extensive criminal arrest history to include 67 prior arrests ranging from Burglary, Domestic Assault, DUO, Public Intoxication, Drug Possession, Shoplifting and Illegal Dumping. •
Other PCSO Ag News The PCSO Special Operations Division welcomes back a familiar face as the new Captain, Rob Oakman. For those of you who may not know him, Captain Oakman provided a few details about himself. Q: How long have you been wi th the P CSO? A: 25 years Q: What experi en ce will you bri ng with you to the posi tion ? A: I have worked throughout the agency and many different capacities, during which time I spent nearly 15 years of my career in the Special Operations Division, which contains the Agricultural unit. During this time I worked as an Agricultural Deputy Sheriff, the Agriculture Detective, the Agricultural Sergeant and the Animal Control Lieutenant. Additionally, I have worked as the District Commander for the Southwest District and most recently the Southeast District, where I was responsible for all law enforcement operations, as well as the contract municipalities of Frostproof, Eagle Lake, and Dundee. My previous assignments provide me a unique understanding of the needs of the agricultural community as well as the community as a whole. I hold a Master’s Degree in Management from Warner University and currently use my education and experience to teach others as an adjunct faculty at Warner University. I will utilize my education, experience and community relationships, which have been built over the past 25 years, to ensure the
SEPTEMBER 2012
agricultural community is provided with the best customer service possible. I have high expectations of myself and those who work with me. If we are not exceeding others expectations then we will continue to work harder and smarter to do so. Q: What Agricultu ral affilia ti ons do you presently hold ? A: I am a current member of Florida Farm Bureau, and will be joining the Florida Cattleman’s Association shortly. Q: What do you see as current challen ges for our Agricu ltu ral commu nity? A: Challenges for the agricultural community include, thefts, trespassing, and the economy. As the economy continues to struggle, poor decisions are made by some, resulting in members of the agricultural community becoming victims. These victimizations are very difficult for members of this community, because often times the crimes are not recognized immediately and the damage, or theft inhibits the farmer’s ability to maintain their commodities, resulting in further damages. Additionally, the deviant acts of others expose livestock to our roadways and present a clear danger to the traveling public. As the new Commander, I want to pledge to you, my commitment to a high level of customer service and an outstanding working relationship. Moreover, I want to thank each of you for your continued support of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Unit. The men and woman assigned to this specialized group strive every day to prevent crime, and when this effort is unsuccessful, they work even harder to bring the cases to a successful resolution. I am very proud to return to a position, wherein I can work more closely with the Agricultural community. • Captain Oakman can be reached at 863-298-6302
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
19
20
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
21
Now here’s one for you, “The Emma Crawford Coffin Festival” in Manitou Springs, Colorado. I don’t know just how much to believe about this Festival, but the story goes that sometime in the 1800s Emma Crawford moved to Manitou Springs, only to succumb to tuberculosis before she could marry the love of her life John Hildebrand. In honoring her last wish, her fiancé and twelve men carried Emma in her coffin to the top of Red Mountain, some 7,200 feet above sea level, where she was buried. According to the town folks they had a heavy summer rain some 20 years later that washed her coffin down the mountain and into the canyon in the middle of town. In her honor, the weekend before Halloween, the citizens of Manitou Springs host some sort of morbid activity. The main event is an annual coffin race. Each team enters a homemade coffin with four small tires no more than six inches in diameter. Each team has a woman to play the part of “Emma,” while four men push their coffin craft down a 250-yard stretch of main-street. The teams are judged on speed and the creative design of their coffin. Then there’s the RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival in Bell Buckle, Tennessee. The main dish of the Festival is deep fried Moon Pies. The festivities conclude when the World’s Largest Moon Pie is cut and served by the Festival King and Queen with the assistance of the Knights of the Moon Pie Round Table. Mmm, can you imagine being crowned the Moon Pie Queen, or RC Cola King?
I
guess I am the oldest board member of the Florida Strawberry Festival in tenure. Over the years I have watched the organization grow and expand. For the past couple of years, under the management of Paul Davis, I would say the Festival is running like a fine tuned Ferrari. Thinking back over the years, I remember Ercelle Smith was the committee chair of the Rooster Crowing and Cow Chip throwing contests. While we no longer have those two events, I think Paul Davis came close in 2012 to replacing them with the appearance of the actors of the TV reality show “Lizard Lick.” Maybe next year he will bring in the “Swamp Boys.” If it’s the unusual that attracts people, what ever happened to the Bearded Lady, the Alligator Man, Mermaid Woman, Violet and June the Siamese Twins, and Sealo the Sealboy? Other Fairs around the world find their unusual niche and pack in the crowds. For instance, there’s the Possum Queen contest and Fair in Litchfield, Connecticut, which is nothing more than a tongue-in-cheek beauty pageant where beauty and talent have nothing to do with it, it’s all about bribing the judges. Other beauty queen contests include Miss Artificial Beauty, Miss Atom, Miss Mosquito Legs and Miss Dirt Bag Queen in Bozeman, Montana. In 2007 the LaBron James Bubblicious Ultimate Bubble Blowing League Tour made an appearance at the Great Texas Mosquito Festival in Clute, Texas, looking for those that could blow the largest bubble. A new speed eating benchmark for eating dumplings in two minutes was established at a Food Festival in New York. They also set the dumpling eating Guinness World record. I wonder how much fun it would be to attend the Dirt Bag Festival!
22
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
Over in Monroeville, Alabama they have a Fruitcake Festival in November to usher in the fruitcake season. To me the fruitcake ranks number 25 on my top 25 list of cakes and pies. Obviously I am one of few, as Paradise Fruit in Plant City is the world’s largest when it comes to producing candied fruit for fruit cakes. I think the company makes the candied fruit for the “Claxton Fruit Cake.” Obviously somebody likes fruitcakes, or Paradise would not be in business. They ship their candied fruit all over the world. I had better back up! If my memory serves me right, there was one fruitcake that was pretty good. Billy Ray Kirby gave me a fruitcake heavily submersed in Jamaican rum. When I called to thank him he was in the kitchen. “Billy Ray,” I said, “Thank you for the fruitcake, I didn’t know you were so handy in the kitchen. You must have a secret recipe!” “Yep, I do,” he replied. “It’s from my great grand daddy that lived in the hills of north Georgia.” “Tell me more about it,” I said. “Well, this is the second batch I’m working on today.” He said, “First thing you add six eggs to the mix’n bowl, then chunk in the cup of dried flut. Mix on the tuner, throw in two quarts of flour. Gradually pour in the cow. Add two dried anything. If the fried druit gets stuck in beaters, pry it loose with a screwdriver. Sample the rum for the third time, and check it again for tonsistency. Next, sift two cups of salt, or something….who cares?? Check the rum again. Now get the nutmeg and add one table. One more spoon of rum or something, and anything else you find left over. Grease the oven, and turn the crake pan to 350 degrees. Don’t for-
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
get to beat off the turner. Then you pour the oven into the batter. Throw the bowl out the window. Lick the rum bottle top and put the screwy thingy on top. Next throw the bowl out the window. Lick the batter off the floor. Bake 300 minutes at 40 degrees. Unscrew the top of the rum bobble and finish it off. Put the top back on and flow to bed.” After that I said, “Thanks for the info, Billy Ray,” and hung up. I have always said that the fruitcake has many value added uses that would make it one of the most versatile desserts ever served. Consider the fruitcake as a doorstop, paper- weight, boat anchor or even a weight for workouts. In addition, the Monroeville Fruitcake Festival it is also known as the home of the “Fruitcake Lady,” whose real name is Marie Rudisill. She became popular when she appeared on the Jay Leno Show on December 14, 2000. You can hear some of her interviews from the Leno show on YouTube. The Fruitcake Lady died in Hudson, Florida in 2006, at the age of 95! Yes, we have a lot of strange fairs throughout the world, and I have mentioned only a few. There is nothing strange about the Florida Strawberry Festival. It is one of the nations best, and always opens with a lot of great entertainment. Keep next years date in mind: FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL, February 28 thru March 10, 2013. •
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
23
24
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
25
I
hope you are all off to a good start in planning an amazing year for your Chapters! I have had the opportunity to visit a few of the Chapters in our Area and I can tell you that I am impressed with what I have seen and can’t wait to meet with each of your Chapters personally and hear all about what you have lined up for the coming year. Your State Officer Team has some great Programs and activities to share with you. Over the past few weeks the Florida FFA State Officers have been able to participate in many exciting things. We were given the opportunity to go in the field and see Florida agriculture up close and personal. The Department of Agriculture gave us tours about Aquaculture, Animal Science, all the way through Food Safety. This was a great learning experience. On September 8 and 9 my team and I were able to lead the first Florida FFA Conference of the year, the Chapter Presidents Conference in Daytona Beach, Florida. What an experience! This is a Conference offered to Chapter Presidents from all across the State of Florida, and it focused on helping to train them and prepare them for the coming year. It was at this time that Florida FFA revealed the theme for the Florida FFA 2012 – 2013 year. The theme is: IMAGINE. The driving force behind this theme is the desire of Florida FFA to bring agriculture back to FFA and back into the classroom. This is more than just a theme, this is something that can enable us to shape the future of FFA in Florida. Can you imagine where the American family would be without agriculture? Just to scratch the surface, where would we get our food without farmers and ranchers? The next Conference that we are about to kick off is Chapter Officer Leadership Training (COLT). This is a training that the whole Chapter Officer Team can attend and participate in. We are looking forward to sharing some idea’s, concepts and skills that will enable you to build the strongest Officer Team that your School has ever produced. I hope you will all put this on your calendars and plan to attend. The coming year is just brimming with events and opportunities. In January your State Officer Team will be taking a trip to Argentina to study Agriculture internationally. Argentina is currently the third largest beef exporter in the world after Brazil and Australia. Can you believe it??? Their farmers and ranchers keep about 50 million head of cattle. WOW, that’s a lot of steers!! This is a trip that is offered to State Officers across the US to go outside our country and learn about agriculture. This trip is not funded by the Florida FFA, so I am looking for any donations or sponsorships that I can find. Please let me know if you have any ideas for me. Sincerely,
Katie Hutchinson Area IV State Vice President
26
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
*** All Items Are 8 lbs. Unless Otherwise Noted.*** Foodhooks.........................................$22 Baby Butter Beans ............................$14 Green Beans.......................................$14 Pole Beans .........................................$14 Speckled Butter Beans.....................$14 Blackeye Peas....................................$14 Butter Peas ........................................$14 Conk Peas .........................................$22 Crowder Peas ....................................$14 Pinkeye Peas......................................$14 White Acre Peas................................$14 Sugar Snap Peas ...............................$15 Zipper Peas........................................$14 Green Peas .........................................$14 White Corn .........................................$13 Yellow Corn ........................................$13 Cream White Corn 4#........................$6 Cream Yellow Corn 4#.......................$6 Collard Greens ...................................$13 Mustard Greens..................................$13 Turnip Greens ....................................$13
Spinach ...............................................$13 Cut Okra .............................................$13 Breaded Okra.....................................$13 Whole Okra ........................................$13 Sliced Yellow Squash........................$13 Sliced Zucchini ..................................$13 Brussel Sprouts..................................$13 Baby Carrots ......................................$13 Broccoli...............................................$13 Cauliflower .........................................$13 Mixed Vegetables..............................$13 Soup Blend.........................................$13 Blueberries 5# ...................................$15 Blackberries 5# .................................$15 Dark Sweet Cherries 5# ...................$18 Mango Chunks 5# .............................$15 Pineapple Chunks 5#........................$15 Whole Strawberries 5# ....................$15 Rhubarb 5# ........................................$13 Peaches...............................................$15 Green Peanuts ...................................$15
WALK-INS WELCOME Call – or go on-line to place your order today and we’ll have it ready for you to pick up!
www.SouthwesternProduce.com W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2012
27
OUR SERVICES • Social Security Disability • Supplemental Security Income: Children and Adults • Initial Applications Reconsideration • Hearing with Judge
• Wills • Power of Attorney • Estate Planning • Trusts • Guardianships • Adoptions Charles L. Carlton
Florida Native B.A. University of South Florida J.D. Florida State University Law School
Geraldyne H. Carlton
Florida Native B.A. Georgia State University J.D. Florida State University Law School
2310 Lakeland Hills Blvd. Lakeland, FL 33805 (1 mile south of I-4, Exit 33 Lakeland - across from Detroit Tigers Baseball Spring Training Stadium)
TOLL FREE 1. 800.315.4590 863. 688.5700 *The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisments. Before you decide, ask the lawyer to send you free written information about their qualifications and experience.
28
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
4H Still Growing After 100 Years
The Centennial 4H Club’s Kelly White BY GINNY MINK A.B. Graham started the first 4H club in 1902 in Clark County, Ohio. The idea actually stemmed from farmer reluctance to accept scientific discoveries as they applied to agriculture. Thusly, it was noted that young people would more readily accept these innovations and so rural clubs were initiated to offer hands-on experimentation. A.B.’s club has been credited as the birth of the 4H program. It was known as the Tomato Club or the Corn Growing Club (www.4-h.org). Fast forward one hundred years, and Kelly White launches the Centennial 4H Club. Kelly White says, “I’m a fifth generation Floridian. My family came to Florida from Georgia, many of them settling along the Kissimmee River. They were farmers and ranchers, preachers and teachers. Like most kids, I wasn’t aware of my family heritage until I became an adult, nevertheless, my exposure to agriculture was nurtured by my grandparents who always had extensive gardens and a few acres of citrus. As far as raising animals, my experience was limited to a few head of cattle, which were bred from a heifer that my granddaddy gave me from his herd, on my seventh birthday. I have so many good memories and lessons learned from my grandparents.” We asked her to elaborate on those memories and lessons, and she responded, “I am blessed to have parents and grandparents who set a Christian example for me. Growing up with my grandparents, who played a role in my everyday life, was very special. The biggest lesson that I learned from my grandparents is that hard work pays off. My grandmother used to tell me that while I may not be the most talented at something, I could work hard to make up for it and the reward for my success would be even sweeter. I have a little sign on my computer that says: Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn't feel like working hard." Kelly revealed that she wasn’t involved in 4H as a kid, but that she was an active member in her school’s FFA. She competed in a number of arenas but her favorite was public speaking. She went to college at the University of Florida and had the distinct honor of working under Dr. Larry Jackson in the Fruit Crops Department. She adds, “I often feel like I have come full circle since leaving Gainesville, as I am now employed by the Florida Department of Agriculture’s Division of Fruit and Vegetables, in Winter Haven.” Kelly’s sons, Ryan and Lee, were both active in 4H and FFA and she says that they “gained tremendously” from the programs at Bartow High School and the Imperial 4H club. She admits she wanted her daughter, Leslie, to have those same opportunities and experiences, but, she says, “I found that most of the clubs focused on swine, horses, cattle, etc. So my daughter-in- law, Ashley, who grew up in 4-H, encouraged me to start a community club that would involve members like Leslie who might not necessarily have the opportunity to own an animal.” W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Kelly’s club encompasses a diverse age group ranging from six years old all the way to high school. She says that some leaders find the age gaps difficult but she sees them as opportunities for the younger kids to have mentors while the older kids learn the valuable lesson of responsibility. They meet on the second Tuesday of every month at the Polk County Extension office in Bartow and, according to Kelly, “Our meetings consist of a business meeting, an occasional guest speaker, snack and recreation and demonstrations or illustrated talks. The members rotate and are asked to speak on a subject of their choice. We have had members speak on horse grooming, dog training, cake baking, gun safety and wood working. Basically, our goal is for the member to choose a subject that he or she is comfortable discussing. The interests of our members range from home economics and photography to rabbits and horticulture and so much more.” Kelly takes this opportunity to brag on her kids and the club. She says, “Our club has participated in numerous activities, among them: handing out American flags to patrons on 9-11 to commemorate Patriot Day, assisting club member, John Prescott, with his community service project “Farmers for Families,” by handing out fruits and vegetables at a free farmer’s market and delivering food and Christmas gifts to families in need. In addition, our club members participate in the Polk County Youth Fair, Florida State Fair, as well as, various 4-H sponsored opportunities such as 4-H Congress and 4-H Day at the Capitol. For me, being a 4-H leader is an incredible opportunity to influence the life of today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders. Several of our members have won awards participating in the Polk County Youth Fair as well as the State Fair. To highlight some: Tri-color awards for baking, table setting, photography, poultry and rabbits in the Polk County Youth Fair, first place for public speaking in the Youth Fair and Florida State Fair. In addition, our club members have won numerous awards in county and state 4-H events. John Prescott won a $500 grant from Disney's Friends for Change, for his "Farmers for Families" community service project. He used the money to purchase more fruits and vegetables for a second free farmer's market.” Kelly appears to really enjoy 4H and what she feels it offers children. In fact she says, “4-H is an invaluable organization for young people. It helps members develop skills that they will use their whole life: leadership, public speaking, citizenship, responsibility, teamwork and I could go on. Our state’s Ag Commissioner, Adam Putnam, credits much of his early leadership and public speaking skills to his involvement in 4-H. He has often said, ‘My experiences in 4-H shaped my outlook on life and prepared me for the world way beyond county fairs and livestock shows.’” Her feelings about agriculture are equally intense. “When most people think of agriculture, their definition is very narrow in comparison to reality. Just in the state of Florida we have over 300 commodities! Among the first were cattle, timber and citrus. Our farms and ranches provide an unparalleled abundance of fresh and healthy food not only to our great state of Florida but to the whole country.” In closing Kelly adds, “Our club is very active outside of our regularly scheduled meetings and I enjoy the help of many wonderful parents, but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my cousin Carolyn Barnett Prescott. Carolyn’s son, John, is a member of our club and her enthusiastic weekly phone calls to say, “What are we doing next?” makes my job as a leader much more fun.” • INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
29
30
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E .C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
31
Naturally Amazing Activities
Butterfly Net
The goal is simply to attach netting to a loop and the loop to a handle. There are many way to do this depending on the tools and resources you have available. The following instructions will suffice for an inexpensive net that is quick and easy to make.
By Sean Green Butterflies are still abundant here in Florida. If you will be participating in the monarch tagging program you will need a butterfly net to safely capture the monarch you want to tag. This month we will construct a butterfly net that can be made from inexpensive materials, some of which you may already have around the house.
Materials Needed: • Handle: (mine is 1” diameter wooden dowel) • Net frame (mine is a plastic embroidery hoop, at least 12” diameter recommended) • Netting (mine is 1.5 yd of nylon, cotton weave is more durable, need enough for a 24” – 30” deep net) • Strong Glue (to secure the hoop to the handle, I used Gorilla Glue) • Twine (to secure the hoop to the handle)
Step 1
Step 2
Create a notch in the handle just big enough to hold the adjustment end of the embroidery hoop
Drape the netting over the embroidery hoop outer ring Secure the netting to the embroidery hoop with the inner ring (glue for extra hold)
Step 3 Glue the embroidery hoop into the groove that was cut into the handle
Step 4 Secure the embroidery hoop to the handle with twine with a figure 8 pattern and the net is finished
MOSAIC Contribution Funds Mini-Grants for School Gardens in DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Manatee and Polk Counties Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc. is offering $500 school garden mini-grants to teachers in five central Florida counties beginning September 1, thanks to a grant from The Mosaic Company Foundation. General education and agri-science teachers in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade in DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Manatee and Polk counties are eligible to apply using an online application system on Florida Agriculture in the Classroom’s website at www.flagintheclassroom.com. The funds can be used for new or existing school gardens to pay for items needed to plant and maintain fruit, vegetable and ornamental plant gardens. Mosaic’s grant to Florida Agriculture in the Classroom is part of $2.79 million recently donated to 37 non-profit community organizations serving counties in the company’s Central Florida operating area. Grants were awarded to organizations implementing initiatives focused on hunger relief, agricultural research and development, water conservation and stewardship, and community enrichment. “We are pleased to support this hands-on program that enables students to personally experience and learn about the importance of farming and our food supply,” said Gary N. "Bo" Davis, Mosaic’s senior vice president of Phosphate Operations and a board member of The Mosaic Company Foundation.”
in several grant rounds each year, Davis said. Over the past year Mosaic and its Foundation have donated more than $8.4 million to community organizations focused on Central Florida. To read more about Mosaic’s focus on food, water and local community investments and its online grant system, visit: www.mosaicco.com/ community/ community.htm “Florida Agriculture in the Classroom appreciates the chance to work with a partner like Mosaic to provide teachers with resources they need to educate students about where their food, fiber and fuel comes from,” said Jennifer Sills, chairwoman of FAITC. Florida Agriculture in the Classroom is a non-profit organization based in Gainesville that educates students about Florida agriculture by providing pre-kindergarten through 12th grade teachers with curricula, materials, grant money and other programs. Its primary source of funding comes from sales of the agriculture specialty license plate called the “Ag Tag.” About The Mosaic Company and The Mosaic Company Foundation The Mosaic Company is the world’s leading producer and marketer of concentrated phosphate and potash, two essential crop nutrients. Driven by its mission to help the world grow the food it needs, Mosaic is committed to strengthening global food security and protecting critical water resources. The Mosaic Company and The Mosaic Company Foundation make investments in and partner with best-of-class leaders in the focus areas of food, water and local community investments. More information about Mosaic is available at www.mosaicco.com.
Mosaic is committed to investing at least one percent of its annual profits into its communities globally, making community investments 32
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
33
It presents Florida ranching, and our unique Cracker Cowman way of life to the rest of the world. The various elements of Florida ranching that are showcased were leather crafts, whip making, cowboy artwork, spur making, and saddle making, with a Cracker cow camp and a Native American encampment, plus a tent for storytelling, cowboy poetry and other musical entertainment. And not to be overlooked is that wonderful Florida delicacy – swamp cabbage – cooked in various mouth-watering methods to the delight of the spectators.
FLORIDA RANCH RODEO AT IT’S BEST!! Photos and article by Kathy Gregg
T
HE PLACE TO BE on September 28-29 was the Silver Spurs Arena/Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee. That’s where the 16 top teams of 64 cowboys and 16 cowgirls came together for the 5th Ranch Rodeo State Finals and Cowboy Heritage Festival. This annual event is put on by the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, Florida CattleWomen, Inc., and the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation with the support of the Silver Spurs Riding Club and several other rodeo organizations and county cattlemen’s associations. It is intended to be a fund-raiser for the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation to fund cattle research, educational programs and scholarships to help perpetuate the beef cattle industry in the state of Florida. Friday and Saturday nights saw rodeo action, as the 16 teams, each consisting of four men and one woman, competed in half of the events each night. And those events were saddle bronc riding, team roping and branding, the stampede race, team doctoring, double mugging, colt riding, cattle sorting, and wild cow milking. Each night there was a short break in the adult action for the 10and-under set to participate in the boot scramble. All boots were claimed each night, as were all the youngsters, and with prizes awarded to the first four to cross the finish line with both boots on, it was proclaimed a success! Each team is sponsored by a Florida ranch or business, and is competing in these Finals by placing in one of the 16 qualifying ranch rodeos running from February through August of each year. Each qualifier must have a minimum of three of the events that will be used at the Finals. And at least three of the team members competing at the Finals must have been on the team at their winning qualifier. From 10 - 5 on Saturday, the Cowboy Heritage Festival was held at the Osceola Heritage Park, adjacent to the Silver Spurs Arena.
34
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
Starting work on Friday evening were all the teams competing for the various cook-off awards as part of the Cowboy Heritage Festival. That competition is as tough as the one going on in the Arena, as they vied for four different titles. The People’s Choice winners were Wilder’s Saddlery – First Place, and Manatee County Cattlemen – Second Place (reversing last year’s standings). The Contestant Area winners were Wilder’s Saddlery – First Place, and Smokin’ Pink – Second Place (also reversing last year’s placement!). The Showmanship Award went to Smokin’ Pink – First Place, the Barbecue Crew – Second Place, and East River FFA – Third Place. The final category was the brisket cook-off, with Manatee County Cattlemen taking those Top Honors, and Wilder’s Saddlery bringing home it’s third win in third place. Congratulations to all you hard-working barbecuers, and we can hardly wait for next year’s competition. The name “Cracker” Cowmen was derived from the sound of the whips “cracking” in the palmetto hammocks as the cowmen of our past worked cattle in Florida’s unique landscape. There was a whip-popping contest during the Cowboy Heritage Festival, and those winners were brought into the Arena on Saturday night to show off their skills. The sound of those whips cracking in the night air is music to many old-timer Floridians! Each night of rodeo began with a Grand Entry of all 16 teams, the various flags, carried by Miss Silver Spurs and President of the Junior Cattlemen, then Taylor Bolin, the 2012-2013 Florida Cattlemen’s Sweetheart carrying the red, white and blue, Old Glory – the American flag. This year honored our military, and the Wounded Warriors Project circled the Arena in a military HumVee. It brought tears to this writer’s eyes to see salutes and cheers from the cowboys and cowgirls, as well as a standing ovation from the stands. Darin Hughes of Wauchula gave the invocation each night, and the national anthem was sung by young ladies with melodic voices. Entering the Arena each night was Woody Larson, President of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, Melissa MontsDeOca, President of Florida CattleWomen, Inc. (both from Okeechobee), and Robert G. “Bo” Hobby, Chairman of the Ranch Rodeo Committee. An Honorary Team Captain was appointed each night. Friday saw the award being presented to Bobby MontsDeOca. Saturday’s honor was shared by Earli Sullivan and Leonard Storey. These cattlemen have histories of their families intertwined with Florida’s cattle industry as far back as the 1930s. Mr. Sullivan’s daughter, grandkids and great-grandkids were all there to cheer him, with grandsons Dusty and Hunter Holley in the Arena for the presentation. Together with Hunter’s wife, Jessica, they competed on the Polk County Cattlemen’s team. Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Adam Putnam, joined them in the Arena on Saturday night to speak on the importance of the cattle industry to the state of Florida.
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
And let’s not forget the many vendors who set up their temporary stores on the upper level and outside, selling everything cowboy and western. You could find wearable art, western décor, handmade frames, custom-made spurs and leather tack, and all of that beautiful cowgirl bling! This writer helped support the economy by patronizing several vendors, and found the cigar boxes decoupaged with cowboy and cowgirl vignettes (both modern and old-fashioned) to be really unique. NOW, back to the rodeo action – Friday night’s top bronc score was 60, which just fueled the eight riders on Saturday, which saw every score exceed 60. William Perry of Audubon Ranch landed the hardest of all riders, and had to be helped out of the Arena, but with no permanent injury. When all the dust had settled, the top score of 67 went to CJ Carter of the Schroeder-Manatee Ranch team, landing him the winner’s belt buckle. Even the announcer kidded CJ about his ponytail, but he lived up to his bio – “He is a lover, a fighter, and a wild bronc rider!” The team roping and branding event saw only two no-times. The ropers have learned to bring the calf as close to the branding circle as possible, with several female team members only having to step a few feet to put the baby-powder covered branding iron onto the calf’s hide. Bravo, cowboys, and congratulations to the Inmate Ranch, who won with an awesome time of 28.48 seconds. W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Next up was the stampede race. Ladies, we won’t dwell on this one, but it was won by the J&J Farms team. Team doctoring was the next event. This displays the heading and heeling roping talents of the team members, plus mugging the steer to the ground, so the female team member can mark it’s head. Only two of the eight teams got a time on Friday night, and another three teams on Saturday. This event went to the Audubon Ranch, with an incredible time of 19.91 seconds. That just goes to show what good roping can do (eh, Matt!). The double mugging event (this writer’s favorite) was as WILD as ever – with cowboys being dragged, and cowgirls digging in their heels while holding the tail of the 600-pound-plus steers. When everyone had dusted themselves off, Grace Ag took home the winner’s buckles with a time of 55.54 seconds, with Jenna Adams out-roping the cowboys on her team! The colt riding is one of two events run in two heats. Teams bumped into each other while saddling their wild mounts to then ride them across the line, and the Fulford Cattle team garnered this win, with rider Cole Fulford recently recovered from a broken leg. Next up was cattle sorting, and the cattle outsmarted the cowboys on Saturday night, with six of the eight teams receiving a no-time. But Grace Ag took it’s second win, with a time of 44.06 seconds.
Last was wild cow milking, with four teams competing simultaneously in two heats each night. One team tripped as the runner got to the judge, and the bottle smashed – but they got a time as it was clear the bottle contained milk as it splashed out! Congratulations go to the Markham Cattle team for the winning time. While we all waited for the winners to be announced, Billy Bellamy entertained the crowd with his well-trained cattle dogs rounding up the wild cows. Billy, together with Ned Waters and Alton Langford, worked the cattle throughout the weekend rodeo. AND THE WINNER IS – Audubon Ranch, with team members Peck Harris, William Perry, Robert Fussell, Matt Smith and Dallas Roberts. BRAG ABOUT IT FOR THE NEXT YEAR, and enjoy those engraved saddles. But not to be overlooked, Second Place went to Tiger Bay Ranch/Duncan Trucking, consisting of Billy Adams, Marshall Godsey, father and son Carson and Cody Storey, and Christi Pryor, who received breastcollars. And Third Place winners were Rafter G Ranch, with Cliff Lightsey, Juan Alcazar, Dad Paul Grimaldi, son Michael and daughter Kaitlyn, who won saddle pads. So until next year – YEEHAW!!
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
35
36
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Perhaps this concept of tap samples is foreign to you. IFAS provides this information on its website: “All that is needed to conduct a stem-tap sample is a letter size (8.5 x 11 inches) sheet of laminated white paper or transparent clipboard and a 2 foot stick or PVC pipe. The sheet is held about 1 foot below a leafy branch which is struck consecutively three times for each sample, causing psyllids and other insects to fall onto the sheet. The smooth surface of the sheet makes it difficult for psyllids to fly, allowing sufficient time to count and record (Qureshi & Stansly 2007). The stem tap is rapid, works under either dry or wet conditions, and has proven to be reliable and consistent (Hall et al. 2007, Qureshi et al. 2009, Hall & Hentz 2010)” (http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in867). Hopefully that explains to you what exactly Brandon is keeping track of.
From the Golf Green to Citrus Greening
Brandon Page BY GINNY MINK
A
ccording to IFAS, Florida produces over 80 percent of the citrus consumed in this great nation. It is the leading producer of grapefruit in the world and is second only to Brazil when it comes to oranges. Given the vast importance of this aspect of Florida agriculture, it is no wonder that governmental agencies are constantly seeking out new methods of protecting these crops. Brandon Page is a new addition to the Citrus Research Education Center (CREC) and he shared his experience with us. He says, “I’ve been in Ag all my life. My family’s been growing citrus since the 1930’s in the Apopka area. As I went through high school I worked in the groves with my dad. I worked the freeze in ’89, but the freezes of ’83 and ’85 I was too young to do anything.” Given his family history it would seem natural that Brandon follow the citrus tradition. Yet, he took a detour. He explains, “In college, I got a degree in golf course operations and turf management. I probably worked in the golf course industry since 2000. I got the degree in 2006 and from 2006-2009 I was a golf course superintendent in the central Florida area. While I was doing the superintendent position, I went back to UF and pursued my degree in horticulture and got that in 2010.” It seems apparent that the putting grounds weren’t his passion. In fact, he spent the rest of 2009 until April of this year, working at the family farm growing oranges and taking care of the goat herd there. He says, “I started at the CREC in April of this year and I still manage the groves at home along with my father. I’m the Citrus Health Management Areas (CHMA) Program Assistant. I communicate with growers and citrus agents throughout the state. I also communicate with the Florida Department of Agriculture. I keep track of the tap samples, and there are 38 CHMAs, and all of them have tap samples being conducted in them by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).”
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Certainly the stem-tap samples are a scientific aspect of Brandon’s job, but the communication between growers and citrus agents is vastly important as well. He says, “I also try to develop resources for the growers to use to see how their management strategies are working, to help them see how effective their psyllid management strategies are. I try to facilitate communication between growers to help coordinate psyllid management strategies.” When asked about the effectiveness of this program, Brandon gladly reports, “Since 2011-2012, we’ve reduced the overall psyllid population statewide by 50 percent. I think that’s pretty impressive after only one year of the program. The growers did it, they coordinated their efforts and knocked the population down, the growers made this happen!” So, what exactly spurred these coordinated efforts? Where did the program get its start? Brandon responds, “Basically, a little history, the concept started in 2005. Some field trials were done, got the National Academy of Sciences involved; they said the formation of CHMAs was absolutely fundamental to managing psyllids. In 2010 there were some growers that attempted some coordinated sprays. That was a pretty good year, we got our website up and going: www.flchma.org. Then in 2011, our psyllid monitoring program began and the reports of that monitoring became available via our website. There’s 38 CHMAs throughout the state and each one of them has their very own homepage.” Sometimes technology is a really useful tool! Brandon adds, “There’s over 486,000 acres of commercial citrus within the borders of the 38 CHMAs and of that, roughly 100,000 acres are surveyed every three weeks by FDACS and USDA. Just because there’s over 486,000 acres within our boundaries doesn’t mean that every grove is participating in our program, it just means it’s within the boundary of a CHMA.” Brandon pauses here and then very seriously states, “It is very important to stress here, that there’s no mandate, no regulation or legislation that says a grower must participate in the CHMA program. The main driving factor of the CHMA program is the grower, grower communication; the grower is the key to success here.” In closing, we asked Brandon what he liked about his job. He answered, “I like that I get to work in the citrus industry again. I’m very happy to be back. My family’s been in it since the ‘30’s. It feels right to be in the industry. I also love working for the University of Florida. I’ve grown up a gator and I think it’s really neat working here.” We’re glad he’s back in the family business too, and if you are interested in learning more about CHMA’s, please visit their website: www.flchma.org INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
37
By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicine, B.S. Nutrition Science
C
risp, fresh, Florida kohlrabi is now entering its prime season. While available year-round, its peak season is during the cooler months, between October and April. Also called German turnip or cabbage turnip, kohlrabi is actually not a type of turnip or a root vegetable. Kohlrabi grows above the ground and is a member of the cruciferous family of vegetables, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, collard greens, cabbage, and kale. This highly nutritious vegetable tastes like the broccoli heart but sweeter and juicier. Both the leaves and bulb are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. Striking in appearance, this vegetable can be purple, green, or white and has stalks growing upwards from the spherical bulb.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE Kohlrabi and the other cruciferous vegetables are well known for being nutrition superstars. They contain multiple anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial compounds. Eating more cruciferous vegetables has been associated with a lower incidence of a variety of cancers, including those of the lung, colon, breast, ovaries and bladder. Current research studies show that people who eat the most cruciferous vegetables have a lower risk of prostate, colorectal and lung cancers, even when compared to those who regularly eat other vegetables. Kohlrabi is bursting with vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one cup of raw kohlrabi (135 g) contains 36 calories, 2.3 g protein, 0.14 g fat, 8.37 g carbohydrate, and 4.9 g of dietary fiber. It also provides 140% of the Daily Recommended Value (%DV) for vitamin C, 19% for dietary fiber, 14% for potassium, 10% for vitamin B6, and 9% for both copper and manganese. Kohlrabi also contains signifi38
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
cant amounts of phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron, niacin, and riboflavin.
VITAMIN C Vitamin C is important for a healthy immune system, cancer prevention, healthy blood circulation and wound healing. This vitamin acts as a potent antioxidant in the body, neutralizing harmful free radicals and preventing its damaging effects in cells. By fighting cell and tissue damage, Vitamin C protects against cancer and other diseases, such as the common cold. This vitamin also helps the body absorb more iron, and aids in the development of strong bones and teeth. Current research findings support that Vitamin C’s benefits come from consumption of whole fruits and vegetables. A high intake of produce, including cabbage, is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes, including heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Taking supplements does not seem to provide the same protective benefits as eating raw or cooked kohlrabi.
FIBER Kohlrabi and other cruciferous vegetables contain a huge amount of dietary fiber. A single cup of raw kohlrabi provides over 19% of the daily value for fiber. In fact, more than half of the carbohydrate content in this vegetable is comprised of fiber. Fiber can help lower cholesterol, assist with digestion, and prevent constipation. It also promotes satiety while consuming fewer calories and can help maintain steady blood sugar levels. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, a diet high in fiber may decrease the risk of several types of cancer including colon, rectum, breast, and pancreas.
POTASSIUM One cup of kohlrabi contains 14% of your daily needs for potassium. This mineral is essential for the function of every cell in
the body. As an electrolyte, it plays a key role in heart function, as well as in muscle contraction. Potassium is required for protein and carbohydrate metabolism and is involved in acid-base balance in the body. Too little potassium can lead to muscle cramping, abnormal heart rhythms and feelings of weakness.
HOW
TO SELECT AND STORE Choose the smaller bulbs of kohlrabi that feel firm and heavy for its size. The smaller bulbs tend to be sweeter and more flavorful than larger bulbs. Look for those with dark green leaves, which are edible as well. Kohlrabi is best when eaten as fresh as possible. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. This vegetable can also be blanced and frozen for up to several months.
HOW TO ENJOY Fresh Florida kohlrabi is delicious eaten raw or cooked. A very versatile vegetable, it can be enjoyed sliced into a salad or steamed, boiled, baked, roasted or fried. The leaves can be lightly sautéed or eaten raw. More ways to enjoy kohlrabi include: • Shredded in a coleslaw or as a sandwich topper • Marinated in oil and vinegar • Stir-fried in a vegetable stir-fry • Roasted in the oven with olive oil, salt and pepper • Added to soups, stews, or casseroles Enjoy fresh Florida kohlrabi today. With its crisp delicious flavor and versatile uses, you can boost your health and expand your palate by adding kohlrabi to your plate.
SELECTED REFERENCES http:/ / edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http:/ / www.florida-agriculture.com http:/ / aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/ W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Cheap!
Thousands of 8 ft & 10 ft sheets in stock. Prices from $6 and up. Custom lengths available.
Metal Roofing we both lose. Florida’s Best Prices
If you buy elsewhere...
Discount Metal Mart Ferris Waller “I’ve got a bad at titude and a rot ten personalit y, so our prices must be good or people wouldn’t buy from me!” W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Monday thru Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Located at Plant City Farm & Flea Market One mile north of I-4, corner of SR 39 and Sam Allen , easy access to I-4
813-752-7088 Website: www.metalsystemsinc.com email: atfabcutting@hotmail.com INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
39
FRESCO’S BAKERY & BISTRO CREATIVE FOOD COMBINATIONS AND GORGEOUS BAKED GOODS
by the popularity of grits. They seem odorless, colorless and tasteless unless ‘killed’ with mounds of cheese, peppers, Tabasco and heaven knows what else. However Tina assures me that customers swear by her shrimp and grits as ideal for brunch.
BY CHERYL KUCK
I
t’s always a pleasure when you find restaurant owners previously featured in the Grub Station who have become highly successful…this is one of those happy incident. Tim and Tina Calhoon were first discovered by me when they were the caterers for Keel & Curly Winery’s new venture “Uncorked After Dark” and I was writing a review published in the January 2011 issue of In The Field. Back then, they were precooking food in their small Lakeland bakery and then taking it to the winery and finishing the preparation on hot plates. I was amazed by the creative mind of Chef Tina and how everything looked (and tasted) like it was just prepared in a state-of-the-art kitchen. Their success story is a case of, if you are a good business person and love what you are doing, they will come. Not only have they come, happy customers have enabled the Calhoun’s to double the size of their wonderful bakery to include a contemporary bistro with extensive international wine and beer lists and a staff of 25.
40
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
Although more of a wine aficionado, I do like to look at a great beer menu just to marvel over the minds that name some of these interesting boutique brews, beers and India Pale Ales such as; Smuttynose, Shmaltz Swordswallower, Dogfish Head or Weyerbacher Blithering Idiot Barley Wine and who would have the temerity to drink anything with one of those names? But that’s some of the fun and a perfect fit with Blues, Burgers and Beer nights. Live blues and jazz entertainment are combined with Tina’s special gourmet touch which extends to the Angus beef burgers like Fresco’s Signature applewood bacon with crumbled blue cheese topped with caramelized onions and mushrooms served on Wednesday to BBB fans. There are new, not-on-the-menu, specials created daily, in addition to the mouthwatering plethora of inventive culinary adventure. For brunch, try Eggs Benedict with the perfect Hollandaise sauce served four ways…divine with crab cakes, your favorite Cappuccino or a sparkling Mimosa. After more than 30 years in Florida, I am still enough of a northerner to be astounded
OCTOBER 2012
All servings, including appetizers, are generous so I found heaven in what the Calhoon’s call “small plates” with tender meat of your choice glazed and served on skewers with another beautifully plated dish of fruit with a variety of cheeses and a wedge of wafer-thin Lavash, a Middle Eastern flat bread seasoned with spices, cheese and garlic. Fresco’s pastries taste fabulous and look too gorgeous to eat. You can view them on their Web site but if you can’t wait, just run, walk or drive on over to their bakery counter for my favorite strawberries with crème crèche and topped with real gold leaf. When asked if Tim is the one who handles the front of the house, he laughingly says, “Oh, I handle the Blues, Burgers and Beer, Tina handles everything else.” • 132 S. Kentucky Ave., Downtown Lakeland Phone: (863) 683-5267 Hours: Monday through Friday ~ Breakfast from 7 to 11a.m. Lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Dinner ~ Tues. 5 to 9 p.m., Wed. and Thurs. 5 to 10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. from 5 p.m. to 11p.m. Brunch ~ Sat. from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sun. from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
www.frescosbakery.com
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
Florida citrus production costs are the highest in history and could continue to climb as growers battle exotic diseases.
up from $771 an acre just eight years ago. In some regions, growers are spending more than $2,100 an acre.
That was the focus of a presentation by a well-known citrus economist at the International Citrus and Beverage Conference in Clearwater Beach.
The news came as no surprise to the industry, which is locked in a battle with several diseases including canker, black spot and HLB.
Dr. Ron Muraro of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) said citrus production costs have increased more in the past eight years than any time period in four decades. He reported statewide, growers are spending up to an average of $1,700 an acre on disease management, irrigation, fertilizer and tree re-plantings. That’s
“We are lucky fruit prices have been firm over the past two seasons because growers are spending more and more to keep these diseases at bay,” said Michael W. Sparks, executive VP/CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual. “We are doing a good job managing them however it is expensive and cuts into a grower’s bottom line.”
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
The IFAS report blames the increased costs in part on world demand for fertilizer and high energy and chemical costs. Find the entire presentation at http:/ / conference.ifas.ufl.edu/ citrus/ . The Florida citrus industry creates a $9 billion annual economic impact, employing nearly 76,000 people, and covering more than 500,000 acres. Founded in 1948 and currently representing nearly 8,000 grower members, Florida Citrus Mutual is the state’s largest citrus grower organization. For more information, visit www.flcitrusmutual.com
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
41
RECIPES Recipes Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agricluture
Fluffy Stuffed Strawberries INGREDIENTS 1 pound strawberries 8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened 3 ounces low-fat yogurt 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
PREPARATION
Florida Arugula and Goat Cheese Salad with Citrus and Strawberry INGREDIENTS
Cut stems off the strawberries and carefully scoop out 2/3 of the inside by using a knife or spoon, creating a “cup.� Be sure not to make any holes. Cut off a piece off the bottom tip of the strawberries to allow them to stand up. Beat cream cheese and yogurt until fluffy. Fold in vanilla extract. Working in batches, place cheese mixture into pastry bag or a zip-lock bag with a small corner cut off. Fill strawberries with cheese mixture. Garnish with mint and serve.
16 ounces arugula, rinsed and drained 1 dozen strawberries, rinsed, hulled and sliced 2 oranges, peeled and segmented 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled 1 lemon, juiced 1 tablespoon olive oil sea salt to taste fresh ground pepper to taste
PREPARATION In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add arugula, lemon juice and olive oil. Lightly toss the arugula to coat and season lightly with salt and pepper. To serve salad use four chilled plates. Add an even amount of the dressed arugula to the centre of each of the four plates. Arrange an even amount of citrus and strawberries in a decorative manor on each plate. Evenly distribute the crumbled goat cheese over the top of each salad. Serve arugula salad chilled. 42
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
43
Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers Picks Up The Pace By Galynn Beer
A
gro-Culture Liquid has demonstrated the advantage of balanced crop nutrition in the challenging conditions of the southeastern U.S. As an industry leader in supplying a full range of plant nutrients to its customers, Agro-Liquid has earned a reputation for being able to address nutrient limitations of crops by drawing from experiences on their extensive nutrient research farm to help growers maximize yield and quality. An important aspect that sets Agro-Culture Liquid
44
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
Fertilizers apart from other fertilizer companies is a commitment to not only supplying a full range of nutrients, but also adding in company support to ensure maximum benefit from the nutrient applications. Support from Agro-Liquid continues to grow in the southeast. The recent addition of Paulino Gutierrez is a step toward building on momentum that has already been established. Paulino has spent most of his career in the ag industry and can quickly identify opportunities, as well as challenges, in an area. His “hands-on” approach to supporting products with an active presence in the field is an attribute that will increase the value of Agro-Liquid in his area. Paulino resides in Sarasota, and as a result is accessible to many key crops and areas of the southeast. His support of Agro-Liquid’s area sellers will ensure that growers can count on the company to supply their crop nutrition needs. Another addition to the staff in the southeast is Dr. Mike Read. He will provide agronomy support for fruits and vegetables.
OCTOBER 2012
Mike has worked with Agro-Culture Liquid products in various capacities for several years. Over his career, he has lived and worked in several countries with diverse climates and cultural habits. This experience has equipped him to be able to adapt the flexibility of Agro-Liquid products to the management and available resources of the grower. He resides in Venice, and, like Paulino, is a quick commute to many area crops. Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers is committed to an increasing presence in the southeast. The company philosophy of maximizing production from applied nutrients is a good fit with the challenges in the area. The climate and soils of the southeast create some obstacles for growers that AgroLiquid is equipped to meet head-on. The dedication to knowledgeable field support and a complete menu of plant nutrition places Agro-Culture Liquid in a position of growth in the area. Be sure to visit the website at www.agroliquid.com in order to verify their value to your operation. •
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
A Closer Look
By Sean Green
Photo by April Wietrecki
Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)
F
all has arrived in Florida. For many, this is the most enjoyable of our Florida seasons. Migratory birds have already begun to nestle in for the winter. A welcome decline in temperature and humidity levels remind us that the carefree days of summertime are winding to an end. Community spirit seems warmer this time of year as if kindling the upcoming holidays. Friends relax at local farmers markets to share fresh food and good conversation and Fall festivals fill the air with live music and the laughter of children. Of all the experiences that can be associated with autumn, the migration of the Monarch butterflies could well be the most memorable, if you’re willing to take a closer look. The colors black and orange embellish October typifying the end of harvest and, in many world cultures, the hallowing, or honoring of the dead. These colors are especially significant when they come on the wings of a butterfly. Butterflies are ancient symbols of death and rebirth because of the metamorphosis that characterize their lifecycle. The ancient Greek word for butterfly is psyche, which means soul, or mind. The Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) in particular is one of the worlds most revered of all butterflies. Monarch butterflies are the only butterfly in the world that engage in a long distance, round trip, migration to the grand finale of their life for the welfare of future generations. As daylight shortens through mid-August, the last of the summer monarch generation enter into a non-reproductive phase known as diapause and may live seven months or more. There are three major Monarch populations in North America; the two migratory populations are separated by the Rocky Mountains. Monarchs west of the Rocky Mountains migrate to the California coast while (most) monarchs east of the Rocky Mountains migrate to pine and oyamel fir forests in central Mexico from as far north as Canada. The means by which the Monarchs navigate the same route and location as their ancestors is not completely understood. Monarchs in northern latitudes begin the migration and more Monarchs join the swarm in the journey south. W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
With little exception, Monarch butterflies are expected to migrate, this behavior is thought to have manifest during the last Pleistocene glaciations in North America when Canada and most of the Northern part of the United States was blanketed with sheets of ice. It was common then for animals to migrate north and south with the patterns of vegetation zones and the monarchs were no exception. The tropical environment in Florida however accommodates differences in Monarch behavior that has inspired passionate research to determine Florida’s role in the migration. We have resident Monarchs in Florida that do not migrate and populations drop significantly with the addition of migratory birds functioning as predators. Some migratory monarchs are thought to branch into Florida and reproduce with the resident population. Monarchs that migrate to Florida, or through it, seem to be more active in the winter months than those that settle in Mexico. In Florida, researchers have documented several winter generations that peak between February and March and a lull at the end of August. Those that settle in Mexico generally do not begin to reproduce until they leave in February and March and lay eggs on early milkweed growth before they die along the route back up north. By the middle of this month we should begin to see resident caterpillars in central Florida again. At the end of the month, Monarchs are expected to travel through Florida’s gulf coast on their way to Mexico. St Marks National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places to see migrating monarchs in Florida and will host the 24th Annual Monarch Butterfly Festival on October 27.
We have much to discover about Monarch migration, researchers know that the sun plays a role in the migration; however, new research indicates the Monarch butterfly may use the earth's magnetic field for orientation. The antennae contain a protein that is sensitive to the violet-blue part of the spectrum. In the presence of this spectrum, the protein can function as a chemical compass. Dr. Chip Taylor, Professor Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, founded Monarch watch to encourage education, research and conservation relative to Monarch butterflies. The Monarch WATCH program provides citizen science opportunities for volunteers to help tag Monarch butterflies during the fall migration. Once tagged, scientists and volunteers can track the Monarch butterfly migration Florida Tagging and monitoring is appropriate in late September and October and is not limited to known migratory routes, in fact, greater variety in tagging locations is helpful. We have included links to both the Monarch WATCH program and St Marks National Wildlife Refuge for those interested.
http:/ / www.fws.gov/ saintmarks/ http:/ / monarchwatch.org/ index.html
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2012
45
Classifieds ANIMALS & NEEDS ANIMAL & BIRDCAGES Add living microbes to improve your soil, equipment serving the fur-bearing and exotic bird industry. Cages built to order. Wire by roll or foot. 813-752-2230 • www.ammermans.com Swap July 15, 2012 and Nov. 25, 2012
Tel: 813.759.6909 KUBOTA M7500 72hp on 48 inch centers $5950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 MASSEY FERGUSON GC2300 4 X 4 hydro stat transmission, 2702 hrs. $4,750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
CHICKEN MANURE FOR SALE Dry and available immediately! Call Tim Ford or Danny Thibodeau 863-439-3232
2010 MASSEY FERGUSON 2615 40hp, low hours. Only $8900 Call 863-409-0349
DOVE HUNTS Lithia area limited number of memberships still available. Call Fish Hawk Sporting Clays. 813-689-0490.
JOHN DEERE 755 Sold as is $2500. Call 863-409-0349
BUILDING SUPPLIES DECKING BRDS. & TILL SIDING Call Ted 813-752-3378
USED EQUIPMENT Mowers, disk, box blades & disk plows. Call Alvie TODAY! 813-759-8722
DOUBLE INSULATED THERMO PANE Starting at $55. Call Ted 813-752-3378
DUETZ TRACTOR Duetz 30hp tractor with loader $5000. Call 863-409-3349
WINDOW SCREENS We make window screens of all sizes available in different frame colors. Call Ted 813-752-3378
CUB CADET Cub Cadet sold as is. Make and offer. Call 863-409-0349
NEW DOORS CLOSEOUT SPECIAL!!! $75 to $295. Call Ted today 813-752-3378
MILL CREEK SPREADER PTO driven. Call 863-409-0349
FARM EQUIPMENT JOHN DEERE 350C BULLDOZER 6 way blade, good undercarriage $7500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
SITREX TEDDER RAKE $4500. Call 409-0349
FERGUSON T020 TRACTOR Gas model, Good condition. $2,750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 HEAVY DUTY SHOP BUILT 14 FT TRAILER New tires & wheels $750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
TORO DIESEL 72 inch, 500 hours. Call 863-409-0349
MASSSEY HARRIS FERGUSON NO. 16 PACER With belly mower $1950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
2005 CHALLENGER MT 655B 220hp, tech star cvt transmission, 4473 hrs, dual rears. $80,000 Call Travis 863-205-2689
KUBOTA L345 TRACTOR 34hp, 2wd. $4,250 Call Alvie (813)759-8722 KIOTI LB 1914 4x4 $2950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
46
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
14KT GOLD AMMOLITE RING Multi-colored fossil gem with unique mounting. Great for gifting. Size 8 $250 or best offer. Call 863-370-8891
JOBS CONTRIBUTING WRITER Write about events in your community. Immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Paid per article. Responsibilities include covering community events and taking pictures. Email your resume to sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com INDEPENDENT ACCOUNT MANAGER In The Field Magazine is looking for independent account managers to join our team! Please contact Danny@inthefieldmagazazine.com or call 813-759-6909.
RUBBER MULCH All colors, buy 10 bags, get 1 FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted 813-752-3378 TSG50 WOODS 3pt. stump grinder. Clearance Sale! $3,381. Call Alvie 813-759-8722
MOBILE HOME TUBS Metal brand new in box 54” Mobile Home Tubs. Call Ted 813-752-3378 $135.00
KUBOTA L275 With shuttle shift. Ready to work! $3,500. Call 813-759-8722
$$HUGE PLANT SALE$$ $4.00 and under for all, 3 gallon & 1 gallon containers. We have a wide selection to choose from! Roses, hibiscus, viburnum, crotons, azalea's jasmine and many more varieties. Call 813-447-6242 or 813-659-2645.
LAWN EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES
TILL 4 X 8 SHEET B-grade $17.95. Call Ted 813-752-3378
MASSEY FERGUSON 255 Grove Tractor with 6’ mower $7,500. Call Alvie 813-759-8722.
info@inthefieldmagazine.com
FOR SALE 18KT GOLD TANZANITE RING Beautiful piece of jewelry. 1.05kt round nice blue gem with diamonds. Would make nice Christmas gift - never been worn. Appraisal papers included. Size 7-1/2 $1,200 Call 863-370-8891
OCTOBER 2012
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE – 45 ACRES VACANT LAND (Pasco County) 45 acres are comprised of gently rolling hills with big trees & solid ground. A great setting for residential development. To the east of the property is a 60 acre parcel (Lake Gilbert) that adds significant aesthetic value to the 45 acres. Zoning: AR (Agricultural-Rural) Call Heidi Cecil for more information 863-899-9620 2.66 ACRE NURSERY FOR SALE OR LEASE N. Lakeland with 1,000 sq ft frame house, 2 sheds, irrigation throughout. Call Bruce 863-698-0019 45 ACRES 45 acres mol, former Plant City Nursery, Dover area. Two M/H hook-up’s. 3, 6 and 8 inch wells with 4 and 6 inch mainlines through out property. Asking $699,500. Call Kilgore Real Estate 813-689-5881 11.7 ACRES 11.7 acres WUP approved for blueberries. 400’ frontage culvert and fence. Hwy 674 Fort Lonesome. 813-728-9132 FOR LEASE Established fish camp, mobile home, RV park with full hookups in eastern Polk County. Located on a renowned bass fishing lake within the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. 14 acres of beautiful oak hammocks with canal and recreation hall. Call 863-692-1013 W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M
INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2012
47