In The Field magazine Polk edition

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TASHA FONES:

President – Dr. Lujean Waters 8750 Shreck Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 537-1495 Lujean.waters@gmail.com

Vice President – Ken Sherrouse 13475 Moore Rd Lakeland, FL 33809-9755 (863) 698-1834 kensherrouse@yahoo.com

Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch PO Box 849 Highland City, FL 33846-0849 (863) 425-112 Justin.bunch@nutrien.com

State Director – Orrin Webb PO Box 202 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 634-6029 owebb@wandwsupply.com

Donald Conroy 3882 Wolfolk Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 412-0790

Stuart Fitzgerald PO Box 1437 Lake Wales, FL 33859 (863) 206-5021 stuartcattlellc@yahoo.com

Kevin Fussell 5125 Fussell Rd Polk City, FL 33868 (863) 412-5876 drfussellranch@gmail.com

Wes Fussell 5010 Barush Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 838-1594 g.wesfussell@gmail.com

Det. Jay Scarborough 1575 Mountt Pisgah Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 860-7731 Jayscarborough5581@outlook. com

Scott Shoupe 6130 Allen Lane Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 581-7593 Scott_shoupe@hotmail.com

James Stice PO Box 460 Highland City, FL 33846 (813) 714-2333 jstice@verizon.net

Dave Tomkow 3305 US Highway 92 E Lakeland, FL 33801-9623 (863) 665-5088 dave@cattlemens1.com

Alternate Standing Committee Chairs: Membership Events- Scott Shoupe

Trade Show- Bridget Stice

Rodeo- Fred Waters PO Box 463 Alturas, FL 33820-0463 (863) 559-7808

Website – Blair Buchanon

Cattlewomen – President, Blair Buchanon 8444 Tom Costine Rd Lakeland, FL 33809 (863) 581-2711 Buckld96@gmail.com

Extension – Bridget Stice PO Box 9005, Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 519-1048 bccarlis@ufl.edu

Sheriff’s Dept. – Lt. Paul Wright 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 557-1741 pw5281@polksheriff.org

Sgt. Tim Sanders 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 656-6119 brusso@polksheriff.org

Warner University –

Abby Crawford 13895 Highway 27 Lake Wales, FL 33859 (863) 638-7248 Abby.crawford@warner.edu

Cover Photos Courtesy of Images By Blair

Letter from the Editor

As I write this, Florida is anxiously watching as Hurricane Milton heads toward the state. The current path shows it going directly over Hillsborough and Polk counties. We are basically in the center of the cone. It has shifted a bit south, but that isn’t going to help us out much. Especially for those on the coast who are still recovering, cleaning up, and counting losses from Hurricane Helene. Not only that but Hurricane Debby, a category 1 hurricane, dropped so much rain, that the ground is still saturated.

By the time you read this, the storm will have come and gone. Those in its path will be dealing with whatever destruction the storm, estimated to be a category 3 hurricane when it hits land, wrought.

There are many things to keep in mind after the storm. Make sure any contractors you hire are licensed and insured. If you lose power, discard perishable food if it is stored in temperatures above 41 degrees for more than 4 hours. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out. Don’t respond to robocalls, text messages, or emails regarding insurance premiums or coverage. Call your local insurance agent or the number listed on your insurance card to verify any messages you may receive.

Check the Florida Department of Agriculture website at https://www.fdacs.gov/ Consumer-Resources/Storm-Preparation for more tips. Hopefully next month we will be back to business as usual.

Until Next Month

Sarah

STAFF

Publisher/Photography

Karen Berry

Senior Managing Editor/

Associate Publisher

Sarah Holt

Sales

Karen Berry

Sarah Holt

De De Floyd

Melissa Nichols

Creative Director/Illustrator

Juan Alvarez

Photography

Karen Berry

Melissa Nichols

Images By Blair

Staff Writers

Al Berry

Sandy Kaster

James Frankowiak

Sean Green

Autum Miller

Contributing

Writers

Wade Osborne

John Dicks

Social Media

Victoria Saunders

In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Polk County businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of the Polk County Catllemen’s Association.

Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909

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

Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

Sarah Holt

Holt

It’s Fall Y’all!

As we look forward to a reprieve from the Florida heat and move into fall, we are steadily watching the news and praying for our friends and neighbors affected by the Hurricane. We are so blessed to be a part of such an outstanding organization as the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. In the blink of an eye, they had teams deployed to assist ranchers affected by Hurricane Helene. Specifically, we would like to thank; Alex Johns, Justin White, President Dale Carlton, Dayne Johns, Aiden Tommie, Jonathan Buck, Kevin Lee, Tim Reid, Victor Parker, Brad Phares, Mark McGee, Tucker Wise, and Pat Durden who spent days clearing fence lines and roads for those affected. Additionally, there will be programs for assistance for those farmers and ranchers affected in the coming months, continue to monitor the IFAS and Florida Cattlemen’s Association websites for more information as programs become active for aid.

Also don’t forget about upcoming educational programs in the coming weeks. Managing Cattle Enterprises for Success on October 24 in Bartow. The topic will be Beef Cattle Nutrition. Also, the Environmental Lands Management Field Day is on October 29 at Babcock Ranch. This is for land owners and managers who want to learn about management practices, including cattle grazing, to improve environmental

sustainability. Then there is the Cattle Management for Women Field Day on November 1. More information can be found through UF/IFAS Extension programs, or contact Bridget Stice, our Polk County Extension Specialist.

Most importantly, our Fall Supper is November 14, and we hope to see you all there and enjoy a nice steak and fellowship.

As we move into fall and continue to see record rainfall don’t forget to add a Flukicide to your deworming protocols for fall workings. Liver flukes are contracted from the snails on grass after heavy amounts of moisture and can be extremely detrimental to your cattle herds. Ivomec PLUS and Valbazen are the only dewormers labeled for Liver Flukes and should be given after the rainy season.

Dr. LuJean Waters

Polk County Cattlemens President Heartland Large Animal Services

FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD

We’re bringing the Pesticide Information Office (PIO) to you on Nov. 7 at the Florida Ag Expo at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Wimauma. The PIO’s Dr. Brett Bultemeier will deliver a seminar on major EPA updates, label changes, exam updates, and more.

Even if you think you know pesticide safety rules, it’s a good idea to check in because they’re changing. And there’s a lot at stake with using pesticides safely. Failure to be in compliance can make you less safe and less effective, harming you, your family, or your business.

Bultemeier will give you the rundown on how testing will change next year. Traditionally, UF/IFAS Extension offices have served as testing centers. And we loved that, because we love to open our doors to producers for any reason in any season.

But because of computer-related reasons Bultemeier will go into during his seminar (some of which you can also read about here(https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pesticideinformation/2024/09/05/florida-pesticide-testing-updates/), there will be new testing sites next year. Bultemeier can give you a preview of how to get ahead of the changes and how to make sure you and your co-workers have access to the exam.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs is the regulator for pesticide safety, and it has been a great partner. FDACS is in the process of considering a testing vendor, alternate sites and remote proctoring to keep testing going without skipping a beat.

This will be a big change for those of you who have traditionally tested at Extension offices, but here’s why I think in the end, it’s going to be good for you.

First, we can do more to help you prepare for the exam. We’re educators. The time and expertise of our county agents and other Extension employees is better spent helping you pass the exam than watching you take it.

The PIO calculated that UF/IFAS Extension personnel spend more than 20,000 hours a year proctoring. Think of how that time could be spent tutoring, teaching, producing educational materials, hosting seminars and spending time in the field with our growers. In other words, the things they’re really good at.

In fact, Extension personnel can put more time into the programming so you can get the CEUs you need if you don’t want to have to take the exam again. They can focus on helping you be safer and more effective with pesticides, in part by following all the rules.

There are lots of good reasons to attend the Expo. It’s a day of educational talks, field tours and a trade show. You can meet the UF/IFAS faculty who work to help solve your challenges. And there’s a free lunch.

If you can’t make it GCREC on Nov. 7, you can still get great information from the PIO on your schedule:

• Visit the PIO website (https://pested.ifas.ufl.edu/)

• Call the office at 352-392-4721.

• Call Bultemeier’s direct line at 352-294-6941.

• Email Bultemeier at bwbult@ufl.edu.

• Subscribe to Bultemeier’s blog(https://blogs.ifas. ufl.edu/pesticideinformation/#:~:text=August%209,%20 2024.%20We%20all%20know%20there%20are).

J. Scott Angle is the University of Florida’s Provost. He served as UF’s Senior Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/ IFAS) from July 2020 through January 2024.

Dr. Brett Bultemeier

THOUGHTS FROM THE HEIFER PEN

Ranchers do get off the ranch, in fact, they get off the ranch quite a bit to go do things. Exciting things like going to the feed store once a week. Going across the county to the parts store to get that one particular part that only that store has, or on especially exciting, rainy days they will load up and go shoe shopping (yes, ranch kids often wear shoes besides boots). I don’t know where this stigma stems from that ranchers spend too much time with their cattle and horses and don’t interact with other humans enough. I brought this up with my mare in conversation one time, but she didn’t seem to think it was true. But about twice every year the ranchers will decide to do something that is not related to ranching; they might even decide to wear tennis shoes and a T-shirt. This takes a lot of preparation and planning because the horses have to be fed early, people need to take showers and make sure their clothes are ironed, and everyone needs to make it through that last-minute reconsideration of whether they want to actually leave the house or just stay and watch a movie because all the chores are done. But the family perseveres and loads up in the car. Often there is some sort of mile marker that after that point there is no sense in worrying about the ranch because you are too far away to do anything if the cows get out anyway.

But what does a ranching family do when they decide to do things that don’t involve ranching? Well, they do things like everyone else. They go to the zoo, the movies, the beach, amusement parks, dinner shows. It’s not where they go that makes them stick out, it’s more what they do and what draws their attention.

Upon entering a non-ranching environment, the ranching family has to adjust. Some boys may be told not to climb on things or run around, even if it is an open space, and some girls may need to be told to stop scowling at people because they are allowed to be in public places, too. Sometimes the rancher kids awkwardly gawk at things that city people might take for granted, like a roundabout, the amount of traffic, or the interesting fashion choices of city people. But they always seem to find things related to ranching or the outdoors that capture their attention.

By Marisol Tarango

The zoo, for example, is a mixture of amazement and slight disappointment for the ranching family. It’s exciting to see different kinds of animals you only see on TV, like giraffes, hippos, monkeys, and elephants. But it’s a little underwhelming when you see different types of wolves or deer that are from a different continent; they don’t look that much different from the coyote or deer that you saw at work the other day. It’s also a bit of a bummer when you see the hay that the rhino, the terror of the savannah, is eating and you are pretty sure that you just fed your boring old cows the same thing that morning. But when you realize that animal husbandry is animal husbandry, it makes it a little easier to try and convince your dad that you could handle taking care of a baby elephant and a pygmy hippo.

Sometimes though, when the ranching family goes out to see the sites, they become the sight, especially when they are wearing their ranching gear. Last Christmas I bought my family tickets to Medieval Times, a dinner show where you can watch knights perform in a tournament. Everything about the grounds is medieval, they even have a little museum that you can walk through that has all kinds of armor. But often I caught people looking at us, especially my dad with his cowboy hat on. This isn’t uncommon though, especially in a place like Orlando, where people come from all over the world to experience America and spot a cowboy in the wild. The real question is, what the response will be when people try to sneak pictures - will you casually ignore, send a glare, or do your best cowboy pose?

All of the hassle of leaving the ranch can make it kind of hard to actually want to go anywhere and when you do, you try to be as incognito as possible because you just want to enjoy the sights while being one of the crowd. But that’s the beauty of getting off the ranch and getting out into the world every now and then. Because most of the best experiences are not the ones that you went out to have, but the random interactions that you have with people who have a different walk of life from you. You get to exchange a little bit of yourselves with them. And you both will always be able to say, remember that time we met those people who…

NEWS BRIEFS

Compiled by Jim Frankowiak

AG LOSSES DUE TO HURRICANE DEBBY EXCEED $93 MILLION

The agricultural production losses Florida experienced due to Hurricane Debby have an estimated value between $93.7 million and $263.2 million, according to a preliminary UF/ IFAS Economic Impact Analysis Program (EIAP) report based on producer surveys. The Category 1 storm made landfall on Aug. 5 near Steinhatchee, Fla, and affected more than 2.2 million acres of agricultural lands — 68% of it used for grazing.

FLORIDA AG EXPO NOVEMBER 7

The annual Florida Ag Expo will take place November 7 at the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences UF/IFAS) Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in southern Hillsborough County at Wimauma. For more information on the day-long event for specialty crop growers, visit: floridaagexpo.net.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR OCT. 30 – Nov. 11

The annual Hillsborough County Fair is taking place October 31 through November 11. The fair offers a range of competitive events for all ages, as well as many entertainment options. Visit hillsboroughcountyfair.com for more information and tickets.

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS NOVEMBER 3

Daylight Saving Time (DST) officially ends Sunday, November 3, at 2 a.m. Remember to turn your clocks back one hour. DST will resume on the second Sunday of March, next year.

October Treats!!

Capt. Wade Osborne

Just as expected for October, the redfish bite has turned on big time. Schooling redfish can be found on most grass flats throughout Tampa Bay. There are a couple of keys to success when targeting redfish.

First: If fishing a mangrove shoreline, fish tight to the mangroves. Redfish like to feed just inside the mangroves around the low-hanging branches and roots. It helps to chum with live bait to draw them out of the bushes.

Second: Always be on the lookout for mullet when pursuing redfish. Redfish usually travel within mullet schools, so when I see mullet heading my way, I take notice. If necessary, I’ll position my boat, so they pass downwind within casting distance, and I’ll start live bait chumming heavily. If redfish are mixed in with the mullet, you’ll know by the explosions on the bait that you just tossed out. The longer you chum, the more you draw to the boat.

per vessel limit per day, regardless of the number of passengers on board.

Now that water temperatures are on a downward trend the snook have become more active. With the snook spawn being over, the large females are now on the move and thinking less about love, and more about food. Ten or more snook can be caught within an hour if you hit the right spot, during good tidal flow. Just like with redfish, chum with live bait to get the action going. Some snook hot spots are mangrove points adjacent to deep water areas with mangroves adjacent to oyster beds and mangroves along creek or river mouths.

You only have until the end of November to harvest snook, so make the most of it. Snook have a slot limit of no less than 28 inches or more than 33 inches. The bag limit is one fish per person, per day.

Third: Learn to distinguish a mullet school from a redfish school, there is a subtle difference. Mullet tend to push water more aggressively than redfish and break the surface often as they move along. Of course, the tell-tale sign is when they jump out of the water. However, when redfish schools move across the grass flats, especially during a high tide, their wake can be hardly noticeable. Many times, you’ll just notice a slight difference in the ripples on the water’s surface.

Remember, there’s a one fish per person, per day bag limit on redfish and they have to measure between 18-27 inches to the tip on the tail to harvest. Any fish under or over those measurements must be released. There is also a strict two fish

The seatrout bite has been strong all year and continues to be robust. Grass flats in water between four to six feet deep have been the most productive for large keeper-sized seatrout, but they’re active just about everywhere. Lately, it seems an outgoing tide is the most productive, as far as, sheer numbers and larger sized fish.

I like to suspend a bait under a float when fishing for seatrout to keep the bait out of the grass. Then I’ll cast the bait 90 degrees off the side of the boat from the drift and let the tide carry the bait across the grass flat while keeping the bail open. Once a seatrout takes the float under, I close the bail with my hand, reel until the line is tight and lift the rod for a hook set.

Seatrout have a bag limit of three fish per person and a slot limit of 15-19 inches.

26-Year Veteran Fishing Guide, Captain Wade Osborne.

Here’s where it gets a little tricky: You can keep one per person over 19 inches if fishing from shore, but only one per vessel, regardless of the number of people if fishing from a boat.

As the month progresses and we move into November, more and more cold fronts pass through our area. Early on, the water temperature begins to drop with each passing front until it stabilizes. During this time, bait fish start leaving the grass flats for deeper water. Once the bait leaves, so do the fish.

When fish leave the shallows in search of bait, they’re more receptive to eating shrimp. The reason: Baitfish tend to move into deeper water in areas where snook, redfish, and seatrout don’t generally live. Then fish tend not to be as selective in what they eat.

Until then, carry on!

Afishionado, Adventures in Fishing.”

Tampa Bay fishing guide Wade Osborne of “Afishionado Guide Services” has been plying the waters of Tampa Bay as a professional full-time captain, since 1997. Osborne has been featured on numerous TV and radio shows and writes for multiple publications. Osborne offers inshore fishing charters on light tackle spin, fly or plug. He also offers eco-tours with an emphasis on photography. For more info visit Afishionado.com or find Afishionado Guide Services on Facebook and Instagram. Email: wade@afishionado.com Call/Text 813-286-3474

This publication is supported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award U2FFD007446 totaling $1,166,732 with 100 percent funded by FDA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by FDA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

LEATHERBACK SEA TURTLE

The Leatherback Sea Turtle or Dermochelys Coriacea as it is known by its scientific name, is the largest of all living turtles and the heaviest non-crocodilian reptile, reaching lengths of up to 8 feet and weights of 1000 lbs. It is the only living species in the genus Dermochelys and family Dermochelyidae. It can easily be differentiated from other modern sea turtles by its lack of a bony shell; instead, its carapace is covered by oily flesh and flexible, leather-like skin, for which it is named.

Leatherback turtles have a global range, although there are multiple distinct subpopulations. The species as a whole is considered vulnerable and some of its subpopulations are critically endangered.

Relatives of modern leatherback turtles have existed in relatively the same form since the first true sea turtles evolved over 110 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. The dermochelyids are relatives of the family Cheloniidae, which contains the other six sea turtle species. However, their sister taxon is the extinct family Protostegidae which included other species that did not have a hard carapace.

Leatherback turtles have the most hydrodynamic body of any sea turtle, with a large, teardrop-shaped body. A large pair of front flippers powers the turtles through the water. Like other sea turtles, the leatherback has flattened forelimbs adapted for swimming in the open ocean. Claws are absent from both pairs of flippers. The leatherback’s flippers are the largest in proportion to its body among extant sea turtles. Leatherback’s front flippers can grow up to 8 feet in large specimens, the largest flippers, even in comparison to its body, of any sea turtle.

The leatherback has several characteristics that distinguish it from other sea turtles. Its most notable feature is the lack of a bony carapace. Instead of scutes, it has thick, leathery skin with embedded minuscule osteoderms. Seven distinct ridges rise from the car-

apace, crossing from the cranial to the caudal margin of the turtle’s back.

Leatherbacks are unique among reptiles in that their scales lack keratin. The entire turtle’s dorsal surface is colored dark grey to black, with a scattering of white blotches and spots. Demonstrating countershading, the turtle’s underside is lightly colored. Instead of teeth, the leatherback turtle has points on the tomium of its upper lip, with backward spines in its throat to help it swallow food and to stop its prey from escaping once caught.

The Leatherback Turtle is a species with a cosmopolitan global range. Of all the extant sea turtle species, the Leatherback Turtle has the widest distribution, reaching as far north as Alaska and Norway and as far south as Cape Agulhas in Africa and the southernmost tip of New Zealand. The leatherback is found in all tropical and subtropical oceans, and its range extends well into the Arctic Circle. The three major, genetically distinct populations occur in the Atlantic, eastern Pacific, and western Pacific Oceans. A few hundred nest annually on the eastern coast of Florida.

Leatherback turtles face many predators in their early lives. Eggs may be preyed on by a diversity of coastal predators, including ghost crabs, monitor lizards, raccoons, coatis, dogs, coyotes, genets, mongooses, and shorebirds ranging from small plovers to large gulls.

Many of the same predators feed on baby turtles as they try to get to the ocean, as well as frigatebirds and varied raptors. Once in the ocean, young leatherbacks face predation from cephalopods, requiem sharks, and various large fish. Despite their lack of a hard shell, the huge adults face fewer serious predators, though they are occasionally overwhelmed and preyed on by very large marine predators such as killer whales, great white sharks, and tiger sharks.

By Libby Hopkins

The adult Leatherback has been observed aggressively defending itself at sea from predators.

Adults are prone to long-distance migration. Migration occurs between the cold waters where mature leatherbacks feed, to the tropical and subtropical beaches in the regions where they hatch. Mating takes place at sea. Males never leave the water once they enter it, unlike females, which nest on land. After encountering a female, the male uses head movements, nuzzling, biting or flipper movements to determine her receptiveness. Males can mate every year but the females mate every two to three years. Fertilization is internal, and multiple males usually mate with a single female. This polyandry does not provide the offspring with any special advantages. Female leatherbacks are known to nest up to 10 times in a single nesting season giving them the shortest inter-nesting interval of all sea turtles.

Leatherbacks have slightly fewer human-related threats than other sea turtle species, however, turtlefishery interactions may play a larger role than previously recognized. Their flesh contains too much oil and fat to be considered palatable, reducing the demand. However, human activity still endangers leatherback turtles in direct and indirect ways. Directly, a few are caught for their meat by subsistence fisheries. Nests are raided by humans in places such as Southeast Asia. In the state of Florida, there have been 603 leatherback strandings between 1980 and 2014. Almost one-quarter of leatherback strandings are due to vessel-strike injuries, which is the highest cause of strandings.

Light pollution is a serious threat to sea turtle hatchlings which have a strong attraction to light. Human-generated light from streetlights and buildings causes hatchlings to become disoriented, crawling toward the light and away from the beach. Hatchlings are attracted to light because the lightest area on a natural beach is the horizon over the ocean, and the darkest area is the dunes or forest.

On Florida’s Atlantic coast, some beaches with high turtle nesting density have lost thousands of hatchlings due to artificial light. The leatherback sea turtle is subject to different conservation laws in various countries.

Online Plants

Wellspring Gardens is a locally owned and family-operated online tropical plant nursery based in Lakeland. “I’m the chief operations officer of Wellspring Gardens,” Donovan Baltich said. “My sister, Kirsten Maghraoui, and I manage the business that our parents, Donovan K and Dana Baltich started 20 years ago. Our father started propagating as soon as he was old enough to walk. He minored in horticulture at Florida Southern College with the goal of eventually opening a brick-andmortar plant store. But the advent of the internet offered new opportunities and we opened an online storefront instead.”

The Baltich Family is one of the pioneers of online plant selling and they continue to innovate to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market. They started Wellspring Gardens in 2004 with the focus of selling starter plants or as they call it, “baby plants.”

“Most plants are three to eight inches tall and are grown in three-inch-deep pots,” Baltich said. “As any parent enjoys nurturing and watching their babies grow, you as a plant parent have this same opportunity. Help your babies grow to maturity under your green thumb.”

By Libby Hopkins

The inspiration for the name Wellspring Gardens comes from the New Testament. “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life -John 4:14,” Baltich said. “My favorite new initiative of ours is building a transparent community with our clientele, so they know when they order from us, we’re actually the ones fulfilling their order from our greenhouse. Our people are the best in the business at propagating, maintaining, and shipping plants, and we’re demonstrating these processes so customers know we are legit.”

Their fulfillment center in Lakeland is closed to the public. “We don’t get face time with customers or the ability to walk them through their gardening journey,” Baltich said. “We’ve found two specific ways to overcome this, the first is we’ve become very active on YouTube. A customer asks a question on Tuesday, and by Thursday we’ve made a video answering it. The second is we’ve begun participating in Florida farmers markets. We meet new customers and we’ve been pleased to meet long-time customers who travel to see us. I would encourage any and all to visit our YouTube channel at https:// www.youtube.com/@wellspringgardens.”

Even though Wellspring Gardens is an online plant business, the Baltich’s do believe in keeping things local. “As an e-commerce business, our customers come from all over the United States,” Baltich said. “We bring in revenue from all of these different states, but we turn around and spend that money on local suppliers, from the boxes we ship in and the seeds we plant to the people we hire to fulfill our operations. Since we’re able to do so much more business online than we could in a brick-and-mortar store, that means more money is available to spend in our community.”

Baltich loves the feedback he gets from all over the United States about the plants they buy from his company. “Our customers prefer receiving small plants because they like to form a relationship with the product; they get all the credit for raising the plants to maturity under their green thumbs,” Baltich said. “It’s similar to Ikea customers who feel more attached to their furniture because they, themselves, assembled it. There are a lot of different ways to segment horticultural customers; this is our segment.”

• Lettin’ the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier than puttin’ it back in.

• A fool and his money are soon parted. The rest of us wait until income tax time.

• The man or woman that invest all your money is called a BROKER.

• In 1908 the average wage was 22 cents an hour.

• If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably a wise investment.

• You should never test the depth of the water with both feet.

• You can avoid cutting yourself when slicing vegetables by getting someone else to hold them while you chop.

NEWSPAPER

Since my daughter, Karen, has taken over as publisher of the Plant City Observer, I have gained an appreciation for those that put each edition together. You have to hand it to them. They have a small space to cram their huge attention grabbing headlines, and always being on a deadline, very little time to think about them.

Some headlines that slip past writers and editors are down right hilarious. For example, “Unopposed Candidates Win.” Well now, can you imagine? What else would be the outcome? I gave the writer a pass, as I am sure he was past deadline for printing. Let me share some of the headlines I have collected over the years.

“Enraged Cow Injures Farmer With Ax”

“Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over”

“Two Sisters Reunited After 18 Years In Checkout Counter”

“Milk Drinkers Are Turning to Powder”

“Include Your Children When Baking Cookies”

From a police report in Georgia, “Crack Found In Man’s Buttocks.”

Some of the stories are beyond belief too; “Super-rats are being genetically modified to sniff out land mines for the Army.”

There’s the story of a guy that saw red and in a road rage attacked victims by squirting them with ketchup. He doused both a driver and cyclist. The judge gave him 220 hours of “high level” community unpaid work.

There’s a story going around that many world leaders will reveal before the end-of-the year that aliens are visiting us. (I think they are already in Washington) Some activists are stepping up calls now for governments around the world to formally acknowledge that extra-terrestrials are contacting the human race. You

Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the October 2016 issue

can expect Washington to hold “World Disclosure Day” to raise the awareness of the so-called Roswell incident more than 70 years ago.

They claim an alien spaceship crashed on a remote ranch in New Mexico in the first week of July 1947. The Roswell Army Air Force issued a press release saying the military had recovered the remains of a “flying disc” which made front page news around the world.

A few days later General Roger Ramey made the announcement at a press conference that the found object was just a weather balloon. His report started claims of a cover-up.

“World Disclosure Day” will be designated as a day to draw focus on the issue. However, on that day the nations will comes forward to finally and formally acknowledge the alien presence.

Paul Hellyer, a former deputy Prime Minister and exdefense of Canada, spoke out at the first Canadian National Inquiry into UFOs a few months back, claiming that a bunch of bankers, oil cartels, industrial corporations and military intelligence agencies were behind the cover-up.

Many believe an alien craft did crash at Roswell and the US and Canadian governments signed a deal not to tell the public about the visitation.

I enjoy the way the Plant City Observer uses headlines in their police report each week. I wonder what heading they would have given this story if it had happen in Plant City?

A south Florida man pulled over for speeding called 911 to report a potential murder in hopes of avoiding a ticket. He was stopped by a police officer in Melbourne for driving over the limit. When the officer who cited him turned his back the man dialed 911.

“There’s definitely someone going to get shot. Please, please,” a man says on the 911 call released by officials. “There’s a man with a gun. I see him looking at me, but I don’t think he sees I am on a cell phone. I swear I am so scared I might get myself killed!” Police officers were sent to the scene, but the officer who originally pulled the man over stayed put. The 911 dispatchers had, in the meantime, tracked down the name of the caller and announced it over the police radio, which alerted the officer standing next to the man. Now, instead of a $150 speeding ticket he got a year in jail!

Then there’s the story of the man that goes to see the Rabbi. “Rabbi, something terrible is happening and I have to talk with you about it.”

The Rabbi asked, “What’s wrong?”

The man replied, “My wife is going to poison me.”

The Rabbi being very surprised, asks, “How can that be?”

The man then pleads, “I’m telling you, I am certain she’s going to poison me. What should I do?”

The Rabbi replies, “Let me talk to her, I’ll see what I can find out and I’ll let you know.”

A week later the Rabbi calls the man. He says, “I spoke with your wife on the phone for three hours. You want my advice?”

The man said, “Yes” and the Rabbi replied, “Take the poison.”

I’ll close with this story. An old farmer in Paso County had owned a large farm for many years. He had a huge manmade pond out back with a beautiful picnic area. For years it was the perfect place to unwind or hold a family get together. As the farmer grew older, his oasis was used less and less. It eventually became the local swimming hole and while his neighbors occasionally took advantage of the pond, he rarely made an appearance.

One evening the old farmer decided to go down to the pond. He hadn’t been there in a while and felt the urge to pay a visit to check things out. As he neared the pond, he heard loud playful voices giggling and laughing. He came closer and was astonished to see that a bunch of young women had decided to skinny dip in his pond.

He made the women aware of his presence and they all went to the deep end of the pond. One of the women shouted to him, “We’re not coming out until you leave!”

The old man replied, “I didn’t come down here to watch you ladies swim or make you get out of the pond naked. I’m here to feed the alligator.”

GLEANING PARTNERS NEEDED!

By Jim Frankowiak

Let’s begin with a definition of “gleaning” - It’s an ancient tradition mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible that allowed gleaners into fields and orchards to pick fruits and vegetables after a grower’s harvest. Leviticus 23:22 is one biblical reference to gleaning and there are others. Surprisingly and disappointingly, one quarter of all food produced for human consumption is lost annually in the United States. That’s enough to feed 49 million people.

Why does this occur? The produce may not be marketable or not worth the cost of picking so it is sometimes plowed under or left to rot, though it is perfectly edible and nutritious.

The Society of St. Andrew (SoSA), a hunger relief organization based in Virginia, began the Gleaning Network in 1979 and “established a presence in Florida in 1995,” said SoSA’s West Central Florida Area Gleaning Coordinator Forrest White. He oversees and coordinates gleaning activities in Hillsborough, Polk, Hardee and Manatee counties.

“We have a statewide volunteer base,” noted White. “When we set up a gleaning event, all of our volunteers receive an email with specifics on the event. We have hundreds of existing relationships with feeding ministries and agencies. Locally, we do a lot with Metropolitan Ministries in Tampa and have also distributed through Feeding Tampa Bay.

“We also do lots of distribution in Polk County through Dream Center of Lakeland, Blessings and Hope Food Pantry and Volunteers in Service to the Elderly,” said White. “We never have a hard time distributing gleanings. Feeding organizations are desperate for fresh produce.”

“From December through March, SoSA had weekly gleans at the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC),” said White. “One of my favorite gleans this year took place at Tomlin Middle School in Plant City. One of the Ag teachers there reached out to me and we got hundreds of pounds of strawberries, as well as some other fresh produce.” “First and foremost, we deeply respect and appreciate the work of all farmers on farms big and small,” said White. “We never want to add to their workload but are simply looking to partner with them to help end hunger and eliminate food waste. In addition to recruiting volunteer gleaners, we strictly follow parameters set by individual farms and we always have staff present on site before volunteers arrive and we stay until all have left. We also take care of finding the receiving agency and coordinating pickup with them.” All we really need is field access and a timeframe to conduct our gleaning.*

White noted that all gleaners are required to sign a liability waiver prior to gleaning and farmers are protected under the Good Samaritan Food Donation Act.

“Participating growers can receive a federal tax deduction for gleaned and donated crops, as provided by law,” said White. “At the beginning of every year, SoSA sends a letter with the date, type and amount of donated produce from the previous year. ”I have been blessed to serve for more than two decades with the Society of St. Andrew,” said White. “It is a beautiful thing to see people of all ages coming together in Florida’s fields to harvest for people they likely will never meet. When the food makes it to the tables of the hungry, I believe it’s nourishment both for their body and soul, a tangible reminder that they are valued and no matter their circumstances there is hope for better days. There are storms of nature and of life. None of us is ever more than a storm or two away from being on the receiving end of the help we provide.”

For more information about the Society of St. Andrew Gleaning Network as either a potential partner or volunteer, contact Forrest White via email at: westcentralfl@endhunger.org or by telephone: 804/938-1026.

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FLORIDA SAND PEARS

By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science

Most of us think of pears as juicy and sweet with its familiar pear-shaped fruit, but did you know there are such things as Florida sand pears? Fresh sand pears are more round than pear shaped and are crispier and grittier inside, which gives them the name of “sand pears.” They more closely resemble Asian pears in their shape and texture than they do the traditional pear types such as Bartlett. Like Asian pears, sand pears are sweet, juicy, and crunchy. Sand pears are often used in jams, pies, pear butter, canned or dried, as well as eaten fresh off the tree.

In addition to pears, other members of the Rosaceae family include apples, cherries, apricots, peaches, plums, quinces, strawberries and almonds. In addition to sand pears, other types of pears that grown in Florida include Hood, Pineapple, and Flordahome pears, and all are delicious for eating. Pear trees are more often grown in the northern parts of Florida because they require a period of dormancy and an accompanied chilling at 45 degrees or less to bear fruit. Hood pears are good for eating out-of-hand as well as for cooking. They are golden yellow with a soft, buttery flesh and a slightly tangy flavor, much like Bartlett pears. Pineapple pears are hard and used mostly for canning. Flordahome pears are sweet, juicy, and savory and good for eating raw.

Nutritional Profile

Fresh Florida sand pears are a fantastic source of vitamin C, vitamin K, dietary fiber, riboflavin, and potassium. The outer peel of sand pears is thicker than that of other types of pears and is entirely edible and contains most of the fiber in the fruit. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one medium pear (178 g) contains 101 calories, 0.6 g of protein, 0.2 g of fat, 27 g of carbohydrate, and 5.5 g of fiber. It also provides 22% of the Daily Recommended Value (% DV) for dietary fiber, 17% for copper, 10% for vitamin C, and 9% for vitamin K. Pears also contain significant amounts of potassium, manganese, phosphorus, calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, and many of the B vitamins.

Fiber

Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases, by lowering blood cholesterol levels and slowing the progression of heart disease in high-risk individuals. Fiber binds to the cholesterol-containing bile salts and helps to excrete them out of the body. It also promotes bowel regularity and increases satiety levels, which can aid in weight control.

In addition to the effects of fiber on regularity, other compounds in sand pears promote healthy digestive functioning and offer protection from colon cancer. Pears are one of the top foods for high fiber.

Antioxidants

Florida sand pears are full of disease-fighting antioxidants, which neutralize destructive free radicals in the body. The vitamin C and vitamin A in pears, as well as other compounds,

have antioxidant qualities. Copper also supports the function of antioxidants, sweeping up free radicals. When healthy cells are damaged, they are more susceptible to disease and certain types of cancer, and antioxidants may help slow the progression of conditions like asthma, arthritis, and colon cancer. Diets that contain fruits high in antioxidants are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and multiple types of cancer. Pears also contain flavonoids that improve insulin sensitivity, a key factor that can help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Vitamin C

In addition to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C has many important functions in the body. Eating foods like pears that are high in vitamin C significantly raises the amount of iron your body absorbs, which helps prevent anemia. In its most famous role, vitamin C supports the body’s immune system in its ability to fight infections and viruses, and may possibly shorten the duration and intensity of a cold. Additionally, this vitamin is involved in keeping capillaries, gums, and skin healthy and supple.

How to select and store

When sand pears begin to turn yellow and either fall off, or can be easily pulled off the tree then they are ready to harvest and eat. The texture is smoother and less gritty the earlier they are picked but will not ripen further once off the tree. Choose pears that are free of blemishes or bruises and feel heavy and firm for their size. Ripe sand pears can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Rinse under cool running water before eating or preparing.

How to enjoy

Ripe, juicy, sand pears are delicious eaten out-of-hand. Pears can also be cooked, poached, made into jam or jelly, or incorporated into salads and desserts. Other ways to enjoy fresh sand pears include:

• Slice pears and toss with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, and walnuts for a delicious salad.

• Dice pears and mix with other fruits in a fruit salad

• Serve pears with blue cheese for a simple appetizer or dessert.

• Add chopped pears, ginger and honey to oatmeal for a breakfast treat.

• Core pears and poach in apple juice or wine.

• Thinly slice pears and top a freshly baked cake

• Add thin slices of pear to peanut butter or grilled cheese sandwiches

Enjoy sweet and juicy Florida sand pears today. It’s a delicious way to get plenty of fiber and other nutrients.

Selected References

http://www.ifas.ufl.edu https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/columbiaco/2019/07/01/floridasand-pears/#:~:text=Florida%20pears%20are%20round%20 and,of%20the%20soft%2C%20juicy%20flesh.

ONE JOB, MANY HATS

“Polk County Youth Fair, this is Tasha.” If you have ever called the Bartow Extension Office and had questions about the county fair, then you have probably heard this line from a sweet voice. Tasha Fones started working for the Polk County Youth Fair (PCYF) in September 2017. She is a Polk County native and attended George Jenkins High School. Tasha was not involved in agriculture growing up but has been open to learning as much as she can in her position with PCYF.

She lived in Tennessee from July 2012 to August 2014 but came back to her roots here in Polk County. She also had a sweet son named Noah in 2014, who has learned a lot while spending time at the PCYF and now has an interest in showing rabbits and chickens. He is actually joining a 4-H club at his school soon!

Tasha attended Warner University and earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration. “I was not involved in FFA, 4-H, or FCCLA growing up, but I’ve come to see the incredible impact these organizations have on the kids who participate,” Tasha said. “Over the years, I have become very passionate about the youth fair, and it’s now a huge part of my life. I am constantly in awe of the time and dedication our Youth Fair board, committees, and volunteers put in year-round to ensure the best experience for our exhibitors and families. They’re the ones who make what I do possible and truly make the fair a success each year.”

In her position as Polk County Youth Fair Coordinator, Tasha wears many hats and has many responsibilities including volunteer and stakeholder management, budgeting and auditing, fundraising expertise, customer service and technical support, and office management. She also manages the website and Facebook page. Some may say she is a jack of all trades.

The PCYF had over 5,000 entries with over 1,500 exhibitors this past year, one of the best years yet. Some

numbers to prove this point: 30 archery exhibitors, 139 beef entries, 94 commercial heifer entries, 119 goat and lamb entries, 962 family and consumer sciences entries, 91 market steers, 402 hogs, 146 rabbit entries, 196 poultry entries, 50 horse exhibitors, 30-50 whip popping exhibitors, 70-80 goat tying exhibitors, 75 ranch hand exhibitors, and 321 horticulture projects. Altogether this made 1,648 exhibitors with 5,104 entries.

When asked what her favorite part of the fair is, Tasha said, “While the week of the fair is undeniably the most stressful week of my year, seeing the excitement and pride on the kids’ faces during the week makes it all worthwhile. Watching them show off their animals, and projects they have worked on so hard throughout the year is truly an amazing thing to witness. This upcoming fair will be my eighth and it is so amazing to watch these young exhibitors grow up, while gaining more confidence in themselves as the years go by, as they present their animals/projects.”

Tasha’s position is a very unique one as she has a collaborative partnership with the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, and she is the only paid individual for the PCYF. Each division of the fair has its own committee of unpaid volunteers who must have a background check before they can volunteer their time at the fair.

A fundraiser that was brought back in 2022 after taking a break in 2017, is the Taste of Agriculture dinner. This year was the 14th annual dinner held in September, at the B Bar J Barn (Elliot Barn) in Fort Meade. This event is held to raise money for the exhibitors at the PCYF and all the money raised goes right back to the kids during the fair week. Whether it’s trophies, belt buckles, or prizes for each exhibitor at the fair, the money is going back to support the exhibitors for all their hard work during the year. The sponsorship levels for this event include the following: Corporate Table for $2,000 which

TASHA FONES HAS MANY RESPONSIBILITIES AS THE POLK COUNTY YOUTH FAIR COORDINATOR.

includes 8 dinners, 8 drink tickets, raffle tickets, and a banner displayed during the week of the fair. A Table sponsorship gets 8 dinners and raffle tickets. Tickets are $60 per person and couple pricing is $100 per couple. This event includes dinner, a live auction, a silent auction, a raffle, and a live band.

Another opportunity Tasha has been overseeing is the Polk County Youth Fair Scholarship. This scholarship is offered to exhibitors who have actively participated in the PCYF over the years. There are two opportunities each year to apply with deadlines on September 1 and February 1. More details on this can be found on the PCYF website at pcyf.net.

A new program starting soon is the Polk County Youth Fair Ambassador program. This program is geared towards high school students who have participated for two consecutive years at the PCYF. Once applications are received, they will be processed and interviewed to ensure that ambassadors are passionate and capable representatives. These ambassadors will gain invaluable leadership skills, expand their networks, and get scholarship opportunities. This program will increase public awareness of the PCYF, get volunteer support from these ambassadors, and contribute to the fair’s long-term success.

A new item to be on the lookout for is the dog show. This show took a break in 2020, but is making a comeback at the 2025 PCYF in January. Also, as I’m sure most of you have heard, there is a new facility being built soon that Tasha says they are very excited about.

When Tasha is not spending her time at the fairgrounds, she loves to hike and kayak at state and county parks with her son as well as spend time with her siblings and family in Sebring. She also is an avid baker and loves to bake cookies, cupcakes, and much more.

The dates for the next Polk County Youth Fair are January 24 - February 1, 2025. Unlike other fairs, this fair does not have a midway but still manages to be extremely

successful each year. If you get the hankering to check out some hardworking Polk County natives showing off their projects, mosey on down to the Polk County Youth Fair in Bartow in a few short months.

District to Hold Series of Hog Hunts in 2024-2025, Permits Available Online

By Jim Frankowiak

The Southwest Water Management District (District) land managers will hold a series of hog hunts on District lands throughout the coming year to help reduce the feral hog population.

Prospective hunters can purchase permits for Phase I hunts beginning at 9 a.m. on Oct. 1, on the District’s WaterMatters.org/HogHunts website. Permits will be available on a first-come, firstserved basis until sold out. The cost is $75 for each permit. A complete list of hunts with locations and dates is also available online.

The District has a three-phased hunting system. The first two phases of hunts will have separate registration processes. The single top producer from each Phase 1 and Phase 2 hunt will be asked to participate in hog management activities for Phase 3.

All hunts will adhere to the hog-dog format. No still hunts will be available. The program works like this:

PHASE 1 HUNTS

• Registration will occur Oct. 1, 2024, at 9 a.m.

• Includes five hunts that occur October through November 2024.

• A $75 nonrefundable fee must be paid for each permit.

• Permits are transferable.

• The top producer on each Phase 1 hunt will be placed on the District’s ‘top producer’ list and will be awarded participation in our Phase 3 hunts,

free of charge. We no longer award free admission into Phase 2 for our top two producers of the Phase 1 hunt.

• Failure to follow regulations or poor behavior issues will disqualify registrants for incentive consideration at the sole discretion of District staff. Participants will be provided the opportunity to refute the decision.

PHASE 2 HUNTS

• Registration will occur Dec. 3, 2024, at 9 a.m.

• Includes six hunts that occur January through February 2025.

• A $75 nonrefundable fee must be paid for each permit.

• Permits are transferable.

• The top producer on each Phase 2 hunt will be placed on the District’s ‘top producer’ list and will be awarded participation in our Phase 3 hunts, free of charge. We no longer award free admission into Phase 2 for our top two producers of the Phase 1 hunt.

• Failure to follow regulations or poor behavior issues will disqualify registrants for incentive consideration at the sole discretion of District staff. Participants will be provided the opportunity to refute the decision.

PHASE 3 “AS-NEEDED” MANAGEMENT HUNTS

• Includes management hunts that can occur between March through October 2025.

• Only those registrants that qualify as top producers following the Phase 1 and 2 hunts will be

contacted to take part in management hunts during this period.

• Management hunts offered to top producers will be free of charge and non-transferable.

• Phase 1 and Phase 2 top producers, without rule violations, will be offered participation in a minimum of four management hunts occurring March through October 2025.

The District-managed properties will be temporarily closed to the public during the hog hunts. Only permitted hunters will be allowed access.

Feral hogs, which are not native to Florida, can cause damage with their broad snouts and can leave an area looking like a plowed field. They also prey on native wildlife, compete with native species for food, and transmit diseases to other wildlife, livestock, and humans. Additionally, hogs may facilitate the spread of exotic plant species by transporting seeds and/or providing germination sites through rooting.

This is the 16th consecutive year for the hunts. Last year’s hunts removed 719 hogs on 11 different tracts of land throughout the District.

PLANTING TREES AND SHRUBS

UF/IFAS Extension Polk County

Trees and shrubs can be purchased in many sizes, most are no smaller than a one-gallon size, and many go up to 7 gallons (or larger). Because of both size at planting and maturity, cost of plants, and large root spread, planning for proper placement before planting is important.

1. Always call before you dig: Call Sunshine811 (800-432-4770) for a free visit from local utilities to mark locations of underground wires, particularly if installing large trees.

2. Dig a hole slightly less deep than the height of the root ball. The height of the root ball in the planting hole should be slightly higher than the surrounding soil. This allows for settling, as the soil breaks down.

3. Dig a hole 1 ½ - 2 times wider than the root ball. The loosened soil on all sides of the root ball will encourage lateral root development.

4. Keep the bottom of the hole flat, leaving soil at the bottom of the hole undisturbed as much as possible. This helps prevent air pockets and supports the root ball.

5. Shave off an outer inch or so of the sides and bottom of the root ball with a knife or sharp shovel. Any remaining circling roots should be pulled away from the root ball prior to planting. This enhances lateral root development.

6. Make sure the root ball is well watered – never plant a dry root ball.

7. Do not add an amendment to the soil in the hole unless the surrounding soil is of extremely poor quality. This can create too rich an environment, discouraging roots from extending into native soil. Native soil is defined as soil that already exists at the planting site. If amendments are desired, it is best to apply to the entire bed.

8. Place the tree or shrub in the hole; examine from all sides to make sure the plant is vertical. Backfill with native soil, gently tamping backfill soil in. Use a shovel blade or stick to help settle backfill into space and apply water gently to remove air pockets.

9. Do not add soil to the top of the root ball. Do not ever stomp on the root ball. Compacting the soil reduces oxygen necessary for root growth.

10. Rake surrounding soil level and smooth for good drainage.

11. If desired, add a 3”-high ring of soil. This should be removed at the end of the first growing season. Removing this ring will keep roots from developing in this area.

When installing any size of plant, there are some general guidelines to follow.

1. Add mulch to 3” depth in the area surrounding the plant. If you would like to add mulch on top of the root ball, only apply to 1-inch depth.

2. Water the new plant well, making sure adequate water is applied during the plant’s establishment. This is determined by plant species, size of plant, and season.

3. No need to fertilize. Most plants have just come from the nursery and have been recently fertilized. Additionally, adding fertilizer at planting has no impact on improved survival. In fact, if fertilizer is not applied correctly, roots may burn and injure the plant. Wait at least a few months before fertilizing trees and shrubs.

Where can I find more information?

Planting Shrubs in Florida Landscapes (https://edis.ifas.ufl. edu/publication/EP390)

Planting and Establishing Trees(https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/planting/planting-and-establishingtrees/)

Planting Palms(https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/ planting/planting-palms/)

Establishing Shrubs in Florida Landscapes(https://edis.ifas. ufl.edu/publication/EP391)

For more information, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ polk. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu.

If you are not in Polk County, Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic(https://sfyl. ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/).

The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible.

This article was written by Master Gardener Volunteer Molly Griner under supervision of the Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator and Residential Horticulture Extension Agent Anne Yasalonis.

An Equal Opportunity Institution.

KNOW YOUR BEEF

UNDERSTANDING THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF BEEF PRODUCTION

By Bridget Stice, UF/IFAS Livestock Extension Agent

For generations, ranchers have taken pride in their role as stewards of the land, a responsibility that ensures the health of their operations and supports environmental stability. This commitment to sustainability isn't new for cattle producers—it’s woven into the very fabric of ranching culture. Ranchers have long recognized that successful cattle production and responsible land management go hand in hand, balancing the demands of today’s beef production with the needs of future generations.

Land Stewardship: An Ongoing Commitment

Good grazing practices are essential to both cattle health and land preservation. Strategies like rotational grazing promote soil health by reducing erosion and improving nutrient retention, supporting native plant growth and biodiversity. These carefully managed practices also help sequester carbon in the soil, which aids in balancing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Ranchers, in essence, act as custodians of millions of acres of rangeland across the U.S., maintaining these open landscapes for both cattle and wildlife.

Water Quality: Leading by Example

In terms of water conservation, ranchers play a unique role. Many ranchlands provide natural filtration systems

for rainwater, which recharges aquifers and preserves water quality for surrounding communities. Florida ranchers, in particular, were pioneers in establishing Best Management Practices (BMPs) for water quality. They have led the way in protecting water resources by developing systems that filter runoff through grasslands, reducing pollutants, and conserving water quality at the source.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Natural Cycle

Understanding emissions in cattle production requires a look at the natural carbon cycle. Unlike emissions from fossil fuels, which add new CO₂ to the atmosphere, cattle release CO₂ that is already part of an ongoing biological cycle. Cattle graze on plants that have absorbed atmospheric CO₂, and this CO₂ is eventually returned to the environment, where it is absorbed again by plants. This cyclical process does not increase overall CO₂ levels, distinguishing it from fossil fuel emissions.

Ranchers are also working to further reduce emissions. For example, research into methane-reducing feed additives has shown promise in cutting down emissions without sacrificing the health or productivity of cattle. These efforts highlight the beef industry’s dedication to continual improvement, even within a naturally balanced system.

Increased Efficiency in Beef Production

One of the remarkable achievements of modern cattle production is the industry’s increased efficiency. Since 1970, U.S. beef production has grown by approximately 25%, while the number of cattle used has decreased by around 6%. This efficiency is largely due to improved breeding, animal health, and feed practices, leading to a 30% increase in the average weight of cattle being processed for beef. Today’s ranchers produce more beef with fewer animals than ever before, a testament to the industry's ongoing commitment to sustainable practices and resource efficiency.

Ranchers have always valued responsible stewardship as a cornerstone of their work, and they continue to lead the way in sustainable agriculture. Their dedication ensures the future of beef production, supporting healthy landscapes, clean water, and balanced ecosystems. As we continue our Know Your Beef series, we invite you to reach out with questions or suggestions at mailto:bccarlis@ ufl.edu, and join us in exploring the journey of beef from pasture to plate.

ROBERT TRINKLE, A GENTLEMAN & SCHOLAR

by John Dicks

Recently we lost someone who many knew as one of our very finest. Robert S. Trinkle, noted lawyer, community servant, and world traveler, passed away September 20, 2024, at the age of 90.

It was an honor knowing Robert some 50+ years. As a term of endearment, which certainly fit him well, he was “a Gentleman and Scholar.”

Robert Trinkle was a man of deep faith who loved and cared for his family, friends, and community. Much respected for his excellent skills as an attorney, he also was one who insisted on finding time to help others and causes that he found to be both just and honorable.

It was his name listed first on the shingle of the law firm where I started work as an attorney. Still to this day, the firm carries proudly the moniker of Trinkle Redman; and it is where he essentially shunned retirement, and continued onward until just a few months ago, dispensing advice and serving as “Of Counsel.”

Robert “loved the law,” as we sometimes say about attorneys devoted to the practice. He said he seemed destined to be a lawyer since both his father and older brother were already. “So I determined that I might as well learn to like it,” he chuckled, knowing that it was both true and that he liked it nonetheless.

He worked first with his father when the firm name was Trinkle Moody. As years passed, the name changed with other lawyers joining, later settling into Trinkle Redman. A fine reputation it gained for legal counsel, all while producing public servants and elected officials including Judges, legislators, commissioners, and a Mayor, with Robert, the everconstant captain at the helm.

Somehow, as a “young man” (which is how he always referred to me) I convinced both Robert and one of his partners, Jim Redman, to promise me a job starting when I graduated from law school. That was enough for me to get a loan to pay for tuition.

A year before I finished, I asked Robert, out of respect, for advice on what courses I should take. He laughed quietly, smiled, and simply said I should just sign up for whatever interested me. It made no difference, he said, since they would just straighten me out when I got started.

Later, to his surprise, I came home as the only Plant City attorney with a course specialty in admiralty and maritime law, and an understanding of piracy of the sea! Some may not have shared Robert’s response, but he was delighted and thought it was terrific.

Silly as perhaps it was, it perfectly describes Robert Trinkle. He simply loved learning! To him, it made no matter what the subject was; anything you learned, only made you smarter!

Never did he stop learning, either! Just weeks ago, during our last visit, he was devouring several newspapers on his iPad. Regardless of the subject, Robert knew lots about it and was eager to learn more. He was current on news, world affairs, and sports, and as a season ticket holder from the very beginning, always ready to rant about the Bucs.

It’s not hyperbole referring to Robert as a lifelong learner. He always was, says his family and friends. One Plant City High School classmate, longtime community leader, and personality, Al Berry, once said about Robert, “That man, he had a brain! He could remember anything. He had a brain that couldn’t wait!”

Yes, learning couldn’t wait for Robert, nor would it stop. Consider continuing education, which all attorneys do, but most

John Dicks is both a Lawyer and Businessman, including an interest in farming. He and his family have owned a Blueberry Farm and have Agricultural lands which they lease for cattle operations, as John says, “to someone who knows and handles cattle much better than I do!”. John is both a Gator, having received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and a Seminole, with his Law Degree from Florida State University. John serves as Of Counsel to Trinkle Redman, a law firm in Plant City where he also served nine years as City Commissioner, including three terms as Mayor.

get by with local courses and meetings. For Robert, though, his brain tugged him to combine education with travel (another lifelong passion) and study in summer seminars at Oxford University in England.

Yes, of course, he would study the beginnings and fundamentals of our legal system in the heart of where it all began. While there, though, Robert decided to also delve into bib-

lical archeology and review the Dead Sea Scrolls and other biblical era texts, and do so in their original language!

No matter his pursuits in life, Robert was a man of focus. Mind you, it was not just aimed at his profession, but life itself as exhibited by his insatiable love for travel. Europe and Africa always intrigued him. Yet so, too, did athletics, which he equally excelled in.

Much to his amusement, I think I never beat Robert in a tennis match, not even a set! Then, too, there was football, for which he not only was a fan as previously noted, but it provided him, as a player, an opportunity to use that same skill of focus and determination.

Rarely for example, did he regale anyone with the story of his interception against Plant High School which ultimately led to the victory by Plant City. Proud he was, though, that as CoCaptain it led our Planters to win the Southwestern Conference championship!

Determined, demure, dignified, humble, stoic. We’ll all surely miss him. Truly, Robert Trinkle was a “Gentleman and Scholar.”

Just a few out of many worth noting: Indiana University, B.S University of Michigan Law School, J.D. Board of Trustees, Florida Southern College Board of Directors, South Florida Baptist Hospital Board of Trustees, St. Joseph’s Baptist Healthcare President, Florida Strawberry Festival Plant City Citizen of the Year

UNDERSTANDING THE

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR FARM AND RANCH OWNERS UNDER THE CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY ACT

By Bridget Stice, UF/IFAS Livestock Extension Agent

Farm and ranch owners should be aware of new federal regulations that will impact their reporting responsibilities. The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), passed as part of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020, introduces mandatory reporting requirements for businesses, including many farming and ranching entities. The goal is to enhance transparency and combat financial crimes by requiring entities to disclose information about their beneficial owners to the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). Here's what you need to know:

Background on the Corporate Transparency Act

The CTA is aimed at preventing the use of shell companies for money laundering, tax evasion, and other illegal activities. Many small and family-owned businesses, including farms and ranches, may now fall under the reporting obligations. This legislation affects a wide range of entities that were previously not subject to such reporting, bringing them into the federal compliance framework.

Who Has to File?

The CTA applies to all corporations, LLCs, and other similar entities that are created or registered to do busi-

ness in the United States unless they fall under specific exemptions. This includes many farm and ranch businesses that are organized as legal entities. Specifically, if your farm or ranch operates under a formal business structure (such as a corporation, LLC, or partnership), you may be required to file. However, there are exemptions for certain large entities, publicly traded companies, and other businesses that are already subject to significant federal oversight.

What Information Needs to Be Reported?

Businesses must file information regarding their beneficial owners—those who either own or control 25% or more of the entity or exercise substantial control over its management. The following information must be provided for each beneficial owner:

Full legal name

Date of birth

Residential or business street address

A unique identifying number from an acceptable identification document (such as a passport or driver’s license)

How to File?

Reporting entities will need to file their beneficial ownership information with FinCEN electronically. FinCEN is expected to develop a secure filing system for these reports, but the specific details are still in development. Beneficial ownership reports can be filed with FinCEN online at www.boiefiling.fincen.gov. For more information about this requirement, visit www. fincen.gov/boi.

Deadlines and Penalties

For newly created entities: Beneficial ownership information must be filed within 90 days if formed or registered between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. After January 1, 2025, newly created businesses must file within 30 days of formation or registration.

For existing entities: Businesses formed or registered before January 1, 2024, have until January 1, 2025, to file their first report.

Failure to comply with the CTA’s reporting requirements can result in severe penalties. Civil penalties of up to $500 per day for each day the violation continues can be levied, with criminal penalties including fines up to $10,000 and up to two years of imprisonment for willful violations.

Conclusion

Farm and ranch owners who operate their businesses through formal legal entities should be aware of these new reporting requirements. It’s critical to understand whether your operation needs to file under the CTA, what information needs to be disclosed, and the deadlines for compliance to avoid penalties. Staying proactive by consulting with legal and financial advisors is the best course to ensure compliance with the Corporate Transparency Act.

Candy Corn Strawberries

Preparation

1. Wash and dry fresh Florida Strawberries.

2. Place a toothpick through the green top leaving it long enough to hold for dipping.

What’s white, orange, and yellow on the outside and red on the inside? Strawberries decorated to look like Candy Corn. Fun and easy to make, Candy Corn Strawberries are one of my favorite ways to serve strawberries in the fall.

INGREDIENTS

• Fresh Florida Strawberries washed and dried leaving the green tops on them ( make sure they are dry or the chocolate will not stick)

• Three glass bowls to microwave candy melts

• Toothpicks

• Parchment paper

• White, orange, and yellow candy melting chips available at your local baking supply and craft store.

Florida Strawberry Pop Tarts

For over three decades the sale of Pop Tarts has increased year over year. According to Kellogg, they sell over 2 billion, yes, billion with a “b,” Pop Tarts every year. It seems people can’t get enough of this fast breakfast treat! Of course, not many breakfast foods can claim to be ready faster than a bagel and still fill you up.

And while Pop Tarts are selling like delicious hot cakes, there’s one easy way to make them even better… Make them yourself! You’d be amazed at how easy homemade Pop Tarts are to make and how much more delicious they are than the store bought stuff.

INGREDIENTS

3. Melt each color of chips in separate glass bowls stirring every 30 seconds being careful not to burn it. The chips will not loose there shape while melting that’s why you need to stir it to see if it’s melted. Watch it carefully so you don’t burn it.

4. Hold the berry by the toothpick dip in white first all the way to the green top, place on parchment paper to set.

5. After the white hardens dip in orange repeat steps above then finish in the yellow.

6. Place in cupcake papers for easy serving.

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F.

• 2 pack of Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crust

• Strawberry jam (recipe here)

• 1 egg white

• 1¼ cups sifted powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Sprinkles

Plus you can control what goes into them so they aren’t overly sweet or have added preservatives you don’t care for. It is a little curious how long Pop Tarts can stay refrigerated without going bad…

Two ways you can make this. Either make your own pie crust or buy the pre-made stuff. I prefer to just buy the pre-made dough. It’s super easy to work with and will save you some valuable family time. Either way these will be flakier than regular Pop Tarts and won’t suffer all the crumby messes they are known for.

Unroll the pie crusts onto a floured surface. If you have a rolling pin, feel free to thin them out a bit. A little crust goes a long way here. Use a cookie cutter in whatever fun shape to cut out your crust, or go for the classic 3 inch by 5 inch Pop Tart rectangle. You will need each piece to be the same size and an even number, half for bottom and half for top.

Spoon a small amount of strawberry jam into the middle of the bottom pieces. Spread evenly but leave around 1/4 of an inch on the sides. Carefully lay the top layer on top of the dough and use a fork to smush the edges together so nothing leaks out.

Poke a series of holes with a thin knife blade across the tops so they can vent, then bake for 20-25 minutes on parchment paper, just until they start to turn golden brown.

Meanwhile we’ll make the frosting by whisking the egg whites until peaks form. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla, whisking until smooth.

Spread a thin layer of frosting on the tarts once they are finished baking and have had time to cool. Top off with sprinkles and you’re ready to go!

LENDING A HAND WHEN WE CAN

By Grady

Polk County was spared on September 26 when Hurricane Helene stayed far enough to our west, allowing us to avoid major damages. Others in Florida were not as fortunate.

The Category 4 storm made landfall in Taylor County at about 11:10 pm that evening. Taylor County is a large, but rural county, located about 20 miles southeast of Tallahassee. It’s probably best known for being the home of the Big Bend Wildlife Management Area.

To put Taylor County in perspective, Polk County is 2,011 total square miles with a population of 725,000. Taylor County is 1,232 total square miles with about 22,000 residents.

According to USA Today, within five minutes of landfall more than half of Taylor County was without electricity, and after an hour the entire county was completely without power.

It was a long night for them, for sure, but by sunrise, help was already on the way.

As we have done many times before, a lending hand has been extended from Polk County.

We call it the Polk County Emergency Self-Contained Rescue Team, and at 6:45 am on Friday, September 27, 2024, the team left the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Hangar at Bartow Executive Airport with a destination of Perry, Florida—the county seat in Taylor County.

The team is comprised of about 45 PCSO and Polk County Fire Rescue members who volunteer to help out. Their convoy

included

command centers, mobile kitchen, showers, bunks, generators, water tanks, fuel trucks, a swamp buggy, boats, ATVs, patrol cars, and ambulances.

When these teams deploy to areas that have been struck by a catastrophe, they coordinate with local officials and set up where they are most needed. All of the team’s equipment and resources are set up in a compound-like camp, and they are self-contained. That way, they don’t use any valuable resources from the stricken area.

Once they set up, the team will provide police, fire, EMS, and support services for a specified area until the community is stabilized. PCSO members will not only provide law enforcement but will also assist with rescues and recovery. They work in 12-hour shifts.

This is something we’ve been doing since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. More recently, the team deployed to Cedar Key in Levy County following Hurricane Idalia in 2023, and Fort Myers in Lee County following Hurricane Ian in 2022. During the Lee County response, our team maintained a presence there for 39 days.

The people of Polk County were on the receiving end of massive devastation following three hurricanes in 2004, so we know what it’s like to be knocked down in such a way. We had flooding, no electricity, homes were destroyed, and roadways weren’t drivable. We’ve been there…we understand how much a helping hand from the outside can mean so much. It’s why we do what we do.

Judd, Polk County Sheriff

mobile

SOUTHERN LAND-GRANT UNIVERSITIES CREATE AI CENTERS TO ENCOURAGE FASTER, ACCURATE SOLUTIONS TO PRACTICAL PROBLEMS

By Brad Buck, with contributions from Karen Brasher and Erin Yates

Artificial intelligence (AI) can help feed the world and preserve our natural resources. To maximize the bandwidth of AI, scientists are working together to develop robotics and precision agriculture, use drones effectively, and more. Recognizing the strength of collaboration, universities across the South are launching centers where researchers combine brain power and data to help agricultural producers.

Developing technology faster

To expedite the ability of AI technology to solve agricultural and environmental problems, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) plans to build a 19,000-square-foot AI hub at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) in Balm, about 25 miles southeast of Tampa.

The Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture will serve as a world-class research, Extension, and development facility, led by GCREC Director Jack Rechcigl and associate director, Nathan Boyd.

At the hub, AI scientists will collaborate with UF/IFAS researchers and industry to study ways to breed plants that resist pests and disease, thus boosting crop yields for farmers. The facility will include office space and space for workshops and creating technology prototypes to get innovations to market quicker.

“The survival of our agricultural industries like fruit and vegetable production depends on the development of new technologies utilizing AI to assist growers in production,” Rechcigl said.

Rapid Robotics

In 2023, Mississippi State University launched the Agricultural Autonomy Institute (AAI), a pioneering interdisciplinary center focused on advancing autonomous technologies in agriculture.

AAI aims to transform farming with innovations in robotics, artificial intelligence, and remote sensing, improving onfarm precision, efficiency, and economic growth. It leverages MSU's strong foundation in precision agriculture, aiming to boost productivity and address labor shortages, which could position Mississippi as the “Silicon Valley of agricultural autonomy.”

Scientists in the university’s Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) are developing autonomous systems to change the future of agriculture:

Robotic systems enhance cotton harvesting by selectively picking mature bolls and employing AI for non-destructive grain sensing.

Autonomous systems estimate crop yields early in the season and detect volunteer cotton plants, integrating AI to bolster precision agriculture.

Through rigorous research, public demonstrations, and educational outreach, MSU is equipping a new generation of agricultural professionals, ensuring continued leadership in integrating AI into farming and addressing broader goals of food security and environmental sustainability.

A ‘Future Farm’

In June, the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and Grand Farm, a leading innovator in agricultural technology, announced a collaboration to create a robust regional agricultural innovation ecosystem.

Situated on 250 acres in Perry, Georgia, CAES and Grand Farm are coming together to build a working innovation farm. With field projects planned for 2025, UGA Grand Farm will harness the power of precision agriculture, robotics, and data analytics to increase productivity, conserve resources, and ensure food security for future generations.

“By bringing together the college’s world-class researchers and the UGA Institute for Integrative Precision Agriculture with Grand Farm's cutting-edge technologies, we will revolutionize the way we feed and clothe the world’s population,” said CAES Dean and Director Nick T. Place.

The new Tifton Integrative Precision Agriculture Research, Education and Demonstration Laboratory will be the first in the Southeast to provide state-of-the-art collaborative spaces, autonomous equipment, and job training for the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“We are thrilled for this opportunity to demonstrate the latest technologies across Georgia's commodities,” said UGA-Tifton Assistant Dean Michael Toews. “These labs and collaborative spaces will be within walking distance to horticultural, row, turf and citrus plots, providing stakeholders the ability to see and test technologies for adoption on their farms.”

About:

The University of Florida, University of Georgia, and Mississippi State University are part of a system of agricultural research centers at land-grant universities in the southern United States where scientists collaborate to conduct research and outreach focused on conserving the region’s natural resources and sustainably feeding a growing global population.

#SouthernAgResearch

Shows an artist’s rendering of the planned AI center at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center. Courtesy, UF/IFAS.

Shows Jack Rechcigl, director of the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center. Courtesy, UF/IFAS.

BOK NORTH FFA KICKS OFF THE YEAR WITH EXCITING ACHIEVEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES

By Kendall Farrar, Reporter, Bok North FFA

August was a whirlwind of activity for the Bok North FFA chapter, setting a vibrant tone for what promises to be an exciting year ahead. With new projects, competitions, and a growing membership, the chapter has hit the ground running.

One of the key highlights this month was the expansion of the chapter’s land lab. From welcoming new animals to building additional cages, the chapter is focused on creating handson learning opportunities. Students have already been enjoying outdoor activities, including caring for animals, tending to plants, and engaging in construction and repair projects.

The FFA program has also experienced remarkable growth, with 300 new members joining the chapter this year. This impressive surge reflects the program's increasing influence and appeal among students.

Another notable accomplishment was the chapter’s participation in the "Keep Polk County Beautiful" initiative. Members successfully completed a roadside cleanup, collecting over 25 bags of trash along their adopted stretch of roadway. They

also planted more than 5,000 wildflower seeds to enhance the area's natural beauty.

On the leadership front, Vice President Emily McNutt brought pride to the chapter by winning the Polk County Farm Bureau Speech Contest. She also earned second place at the district level, showcasing the leadership team's dedication and talent. Both Emily and chapter President Brianna Ritchey attended the Florida FFA Chapter President's Conference, where they further developed their leadership skills and networked with other FFA members from across the state.

In addition to these efforts, Bok North FFA is currently selling $20 discount cards to support their programs. The cards offer buyers savings at local businesses, national chains, and online retailers. Don’t forget to grab one to support the chapter!

**A Fun-Filled Weekend of Service and Learning**

The weekend of Friday, Sept 13, and Saturday, Sept.14 was filled with excitement for Bok North FFA. On Friday, the officers

volunteered at the Taste of Agriculture, the Polk County Youth Fair's annual fundraising dinner. They assisted with preparations by washing, drying, and wrapping 300 potatoes, setting up tables and silverware, and organizing the dinner venue. After the hard work, the officers enjoyed bonding time and planned upcoming activities.

On Saturday, six officers volunteered at the 7 Rivers Water Festival, which focuses on water conservation in the Polk County region. They helped set up tents, distribute chairs and tables, and unpack supplies for the vendor booths. The day wasn’t all work, though. Officers participated in booth bingo, with Reporter Kendall winning a cooler, and took a boat tour to learn more about the region's lakes and wildlife.

A highlight of the festival was when the officers had the chance to handle a variety of reptiles, including an alligator, a snake, a turtle, and two lizards. The day was made sweeter with treats like lemonade, honey, and Italian ice. To cap off the weekend, the group enjoyed a delicious meal at Upper Crust Pizza.

The weekend was packed with learning, teamwork, and fun, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved. As Bok North FFA continues to grow and make a difference in the community, the chapter is set to make this year their best one yet!

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Polk County Cattle Women County Cattle Women

Of course, as soon as I buy my first fall decoration a hurricane comes. This is not how I imagined spending the first part of October, but on the bright side, Polk County CattleWomen are starting to get busier with upcoming events!

One of our next events is the Polk County Cattlemen’s membership dinner in November where we will be providing desserts and collecting toys to donate to One More Child. We will also be volunteering again at the Tampa Junior League Holiday Market to pass out beef samples to shoppers and teach them about Florida’s cattle industry.

Florida CattleWomen are offering some ranch tours this Fall and Spring. If you’d like to know the locations and dates, you can find more information on their social media pages.

If you’re interested in joining Polk County CattleWomen, or if you’d like to be added to our email distribution list, reach out to me at blairbuchanon@gmail.com.

Blair Buchanon

Polk County Cattlewomen President

blairbuchanon@gmail.com

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