In The Field magazine Polk edition

CONTENTS

September 2023

VOL.

PAGE 12

Thoughts from the Heifer Pen

PAGE 14

Fishing Hot Spots

PAGE 16 Endangered Species

PAGE 18 Gardening

PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter

PAGE 24 Football & Food

PAGE 27 Cherry Plum

PAGE 31 Fruit & Veggies

PAGE 32 Recipes

PAGE 33 Pest Management

PAGE 34 After the Storm

PAGE 35

News Briefs

PAGE 36

John Dicks

PAGE 38 PCSO

PAGE 40 Activity

PAGE 41 A Closer Look

Hey

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association

P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL. 33831-9005

President – Kevin Fussell 4523 Fussell Rd Polk City, FL 33868-9676 (863) 412-5876

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

Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch PO Box 849 Highland City, FL 33846-0849 (863) 425-1121 justin.bunch@cpsagu.com

State Director – David Hunt 9699 Alt Bab Pk Cut-Off Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 287-1835 Dhunt285@aol.com

Alternate SD – Orrin Webb PO Box 202 Bartow, FL 33831 (941) 916-5093 cwebbowebb@aol.com

Ray Clark 4484 Swindell Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 640-0719 rclark@tampabay.rr.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

Ken Sherrouse 13475 Moore Rd Lakeland, FL 33809-9755 (863) 698-1834 kensherrouse@yahoo.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 Trade Show- Bridget Stice Rodeo- Fred Waters PO Box 463 Alturas, FL 33820-0463 (863) 559-7808

Website Cattlewomen – President, Leslie 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

REBECCA

“BECKY” FINLEY

NEW FLORIDA CATTLEWOMEN’S PRESIDENT

from the

Why should you read about agriculture? Why learn about the people who grow the food that feeds our nation? Aren’t you interested in knowing how the earth produces food? We have to have food to sustain life and that should be enough to interest you as to where or how your food is grown or raised.

Also, agriculture needs you. Each and every one of us is involved in agriculture, whether we grow food, raise livestock for consumption, or eat – there is a little bit of agriculture in us all.

Our ancestors had close ties to the land. The importance of agriculture could not be ignored. Today, many people have forgotten this tie, or maybe never learned of it. Food appears to be abundant and the fact that our food comes from a farm or ranch in the initial stages is a piece of history to many. It is far removed from their thoughts even as they shop for groceries and cook meals.

It is an industry that is not going away. Agriculture provides not only food but many more materials used on a daily basis.

It is our mission to help our readers who are not farmers and ranchers to remember the connection to the land. Most people are generations removed from the farm so more than ever the consumer needs information to understand agriculture, both animal and plant based. Check labels to ensure your food is Fresh From Florida. Be an informed consumer so we can continue to have the safest, most abundant food supply in the world.

Sarah Holt

Publisher/Photography

Karen Berry

Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher

Sarah Holt

Editor

Patsy Berry

Sales

Karen Berry

Sarah Holt

Melissa Nichols

George Domedion

Creative Director/Illustrator

Juan Alvarez

Photography

Karen Berry

Melissa Nichols

Staff Writers

Al Berry

Sandy Kaster

James Frankowiak

Sean Green

Contributing Writers

Woody Gore

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.

you. - Numbers 6:25

Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

Hope everyone reading this is doing well and fared well from the storm. Polk County got plenty of much-needed rain and thankfully not too much wind. At this writing, the water is going down, which is a good thing.

It has been a good year to be in the cattle business. In the flatwoods, the cows and calves have done well because of the drier summer. Calves and beef cow prices remain high, and it appears to be a strong market moving on to the future. We better enjoy that while it lasts.

We just hosted the fall quarterly steakout for the state association at the Sunny Acres Lodge in Polk City.  It was a good turnout and enjoyed visiting with everyone there. We look forward to seeing everyone at our next meeting in November.

Take care,

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association Kevin Fussell

FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD

NEW RESOURCE AVAILABLE TO CONNECT PRODUCERS WITH FARM PRODUCTS

AND SERVICES

By Allie Williams, small farms and alternative enterprises agent, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County

UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County recently launched the Small Farm Product & Service Directory to connect small-scale farmers and livestock producers with available farm products and services.

The Extension office is often contacted by farmers looking for businesses that sell products or offer services needed to keep their operations running. The directory was developed after learning that many producers face challenges accessing these resources for small-scale production.

Inquiries often include services to build fences, cut and bale hay, spread fertilizer, lay plastic, and other common farm tasks. Other requests have been for a list of local businesses to purchase products such as seed or fertilizer, as well as places to rent equipment including poultry processing equipment, tractor implements, cattle squeeze chutes and more.

The directory includes custom tractor work and land clearing, fence building, farm equipment, large animal veterinarians, livestock services, product suppliers (fertilizer, chemical, feed, seed, equipment), agricultural real estate, farm stores and more.

The Small Farms Product & Service Directory can be found on the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County website under the Agriculture – Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises tab.

To access the direct link for the directory, scan the QR Code or visit: https://tinyurl.com/SFPSDirectory

With the recent launch of the directory, the categories are beginning to be filled in. Any business that involves farm or ranch products or services in Hillsborough County and surrounding areas is encouraged to join the directory listing.

If you provide a service or sell a product that caters to the small-scale producer and would like to be added to the Small Farm Product & Service Directory, please fill out the Product and Services Directory Submission Form: https://tinyurl.com/SFPSDirectorySubmission If you have any questions or need to make changes to your listing, please contact Allie Williams at allisonwilliams@ufl.edu.

A listing in this directory does not imply an endorsement by the Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida.

Allie Williams is the Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Extension Agent at UF/IFAS Extension in Hillsborough County. She can be contacted at allisonwilliams@ufl.edu.

By Marisol Tarango

THOUGHTS FROM THE HEIFER PEN

Buck was a buckskin stallion that was given to my dad by a friend from Oklahoma. I was eleven at the time and an undaunted, overconfident ranch kid, but Buck brought that mentality to an abrupt end.

He came with the name Buck, but it wasn’t because of his color. Buck was an honest bucker; he bucked true and in a straight line. You just had to lunge him before you got on, and after those two laps in the round pen, you could do anything that you wanted on him. The summer after we got him, Buck became my dad’s main work horse. One day, my dad had slept through his alarm and didn’t have time to lunge Buck before he loaded him up. At the pasture they were working in, while all the other guys were pulling their cinches and waiting on the boss man, my dad started to quietly warm Buck up and hopefully, peacefully work the buck out. When it was time to go, my dad pushed Buck up to start moving the cows that had started to gather by the trailers. When Buck felt the spurs sink in, he started his before work cardio routine, but my dad says his bucks were easy to ride and that by the time they made it to the cows, Buck was still bucking, but my dad was able to rein him left and right to push the cows up.

I have only ridden Buck maybe two times in my life, at the prodding of my dad, usually just from the front yard to the barn. Even though he was well-mannered and quiet at work for my dad, I could only envision him ripping across a pasture with me on his back in pursuit of a mare or another challenging stud. When Buck was not going to work with my dad, he lived in a pasture next to our house with the cows. Every time we had to gather those cows, it was my job to catch Buck and bring him to the barn so we could gather the cows without his stallion drama. This was not my favorite job. I knew he would be fine when I went out to catch him in the pasture, but as soon as we came past the woods behind the house and in view of the barn, without fail, he would start doing his stud grunt that worked up into his stallion screams as he reared up. He never pulled away from me and after a few seconds of him freaking out and me yelling at him, he was fine as we finished our walk to the barn.

As time went on Buck became a daddy, and we got to see a different side of Buck. He was very protective of his harem and sometimes wouldn’t let us near them at first. One spring, my dad decided to breed the two mares that my sister and I rode. The only hitch was that we were using these two mares to give riding lessons and would have to go catch them. This turned out to be an elaborate process. We would both walk out there with three halters and a bucket of feed. I would put a halter on Buck and hold him while my sister caught the two mares. After she caught them, I would give her a boost onto her mare, and she would ride her mare and lead my mare up to the gate. Then she would holler at me to let Buck go and he would race up to the gate, dismissing any thoughts I had about maybe riding him up to the gate. But when the mares were bred and had their babies, Buck was the gentlest thing. He would watch the babies while the moms ate and would let them climb on him and bite him. It was like watching a nature program about Mustangs right outside our house. But for all of his great fatherly qualities, we could almost never get a Buckskin out of him. Over the course of his breeding career with us, he only threw three buckskins. The rest were mostly palominos.

Now Buck is a 24-year-old grumpy old man that I take care of. Most of the time he just waits by his feed bucket for his next feeding. I told my mom the other day as we drove by him on our way to town that judging by the way he acts you would think we didn’t feed him, but he probably has the most expensive upkeep on the ranch. He doesn’t rush to the gate anymore when we put the geldings out with him, but he likes to rush me when I try to dump his feed. Over the years we have come to a mutual understanding of “don’t start none, and there won’t be none.” He harasses me until I try to dump his feed, but he steps back for a split second for me to actually dump it, and he stands still for me while I groom him.

Note: After the time of this writing, Buck has gone to live with the daughter of my dad’s friend who originally gave him to us, where he is enjoying life in the Oklahoma hills where he was born.

THE HEAT IS ON!

Florida Mineral teams up with Sangrovit® to create the Ultimate Heat Stress Block!

For your Fall and Winter Livestock Needs, FMS has several formulations to choose from including the 30% Tub and 25% Tub. Every rancher has an understanding of their forage strengths and weaknesses. Free choice fed cattle instinctively know when to stop eating forage and supplements

Combining knowledge from ranchers, instinct of cattle, and finely tuned formulations from FMS, results in better health, herd management and economics

Summer Thunderstorms

Summer is here, and so are the daily thunderstorms plaguing our summer outings. But while summer brings visualizations of warm temperature and water fun, it also brings those windy weather conditions that can end all our summer fun. Thunderstorms, lightning, and higher winds are indications of an approaching thunderstorm. Inclement weather is forecast before you ever leave the shore.

For example, cumulus clouds often resemble puffy pieces of floating cotton. And they also have a flat base, usually reaching only 3300 feet above the ground, with rounded towers in the shape of a cauliflower. They also grow upward, developing into a giant cumulonimbus or thunderstorm cloud. And with that, mariners should have some basic maritime-weather knowledge. Should you be unprepared and aboard a sailing vessel, motorboat, or kayak? The good news is you can predict storms and get to safety.

Here are some thoughts for keeping your eye on the weather:

• Inclement weather is often forecast before you ever leave the shore. Check the television, newspaper, Internet, or cell phone for marine forecasts. Pay careful attention to any posted marine weather warnings for areas you intend to boat.

• Look for telltale signs of a forming thunderstorm. Such as clumps of thick cumulous clouds (the puffy cotton-ball type) darkening into a towering, cumulonimbus cloud (think of cumulous as growing vertically, with an anvil-like shape at the top.) when you see this formation starting, head for shore. Wind, lighting, and rain often occur within 30 minutes of developing clouds.

• Storm severity can often be predicted by the shape and color of a cloud’s front edge. The darker, sharper, and lower the edge, the more severe. The anvil-shaped top of storm clouds will typically point in the direction of travel.

• Thunderstorms build over the water in the summertime when the humidity and temperature on land are high. Hot air radiates upward from the sun-heated ground and absorbs moisture from the nearby water, ultimately rising to begin forming a thunderhead. The telltale sign of these storms is fast-moving black clouds, often approaching from the southwest, south, or west.

Capt. Woody Gore

• How long do you have before a storm arrives? Try this trick. When you first see a flash of lightning, count how many seconds pass before you hear the accompanying thunder, then divide by five. The result is the number of miles you are away from the storm.

• Even if a storm is still several miles away, the lightning it generates can reach you with ease. Lighting can strike well before and after the storm has seemingly passed. Watch for the “coppery” haze and building cumulonimbus clouds that indicate a thunderstorm. Seek shelter well in advance.

• If you can’t outrun a storm or find protection, navigate your craft into the wind taking approaching waves at a 90-degree angle. If you’re on a PWC (personal watercraft), keep your pump in the water, lessening the chance of a rollover. It’s also best to stay as low as possible so your body is not the tallest target on the water. Once on shore, take shelter near lower buildings or trees and away from the trunk.

• A handheld VHF radio can be a lifesaver, with many radios featuring a weather alert to warn of approaching storms. In addition, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) broadcasts continual weather bulletins on designated “WX’ channels, which are updated every six hours. Here are some NOAA Weather Radio stations: MHz 162.400, MHz, 162.425  MHz, 162.450,  MHz 162.475,  MHz 162.500, MHz 162.525,  MHz 162.550; you can find others on the Internet under the N.O.A.A Website (https://www.weather.gov/nwr/station_ listing)

Tampa Bay Fishing Report

Well, guess what? It’s still hot, and we probably can’t expect any relief for another couple of months. Mid-mornings show water temperatures in the eighties, and I wonder if the heat will ever ease up.

Fortunately, for those brave enough to get out on the water catching fish has been a plus. Everything seems to cooperate and eat just about anything on a line and hook. Live, greenbacks, threadfins, small pinfish, Spanish sardines, and the old standby, shrimp, work well. Fished under a cork or free-lined, they’re sure bets to catching fish.

Snook

Snook fishing will continue strong this month, with larger fish on the beaches. Expect to see snook bunching up near passes and deeper holes. Sometimes they seem to have lockjaw, but patience pays off. Anglers report catching good fish using dead bait left on the bottom. But remember, dead bait on the bottom is often a tempting morsel for mister stingray. Night fishing around bridges can produce some good catches.

Redfish

We should see more redfish action around the flats and backcountry mangroves. Reds should push into the Mangroves and around oyster bars on incoming tides. Live bait should produce good catches.

Spotted Sea Trout

Trout fishing continues but is not as strong as the cooler temps. Look for fairsized trout on the deeper edges of grass flats all over Tampa Bay. Live shrimp and greenbacks under popping corks should fit the bill nicely. But free-lined shrimp in sandy potholes might produce larger fish, not to mention the occasional flounder.

Cobia

Markers and sandy flats often equal Cobia, and they also cruise the flats following rays looking for a quick snack. When marker fishing, keep a chum bag out; you never know what might show up following the scent.

Tarpon

Tarpon fishing should continue this month and many will move into the upper parts of Tampa Bay. Threadfin Hearing are abundant throughout Tampa Bay and works very well for tarpon. If fishing around the Skyway, set up so your baits drift back with the current. Also, be prepared to release your anchor onto a buoy. Fishing around the Skyway is an added attraction; you might catch Grouper, Snapper, or large Mackerel.

Captain Woody Gore owns and operates the area’s Number One OutdoorFishing and Environmental Guide Service. Capt. Woody’s associate captains have guided and fished the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Tarpon Springs areas for over fifty years. He offers world-class fishing and adventures with a lifetime of memories. Single or Group Charters are all the same. Just tell him what you need, and he will make it happen. Visit his website at www.captainwoodygore. com, send an email to fishing@captainwoodygore.com, or give him a call at 813-477-3814. Professional Fishing Guide and Environmentalist, Outdoor Writer, Speaker, and Photo, Journalist. Capt. Woody Gore

ES Florida Golden Aster

By Libby Hopkins

The Florida golden aster or Chrysopsis floridana as it’s known by its scientific name, is one of the many imperiled species found at Lake Manatee State Park. This species of plant is most notable because not only is it recognized as a threatened plant in the state, but also on the federal level.

What led to the plant being endangered is that much of its natural habitat was transformed into land for agricultural use in the 1970s. It wasn’t until 1988 that a plan was made to recover the population of the Florida golden aster and conduct research into its growth.

This plant thrives in areas of xeric hammock and Florida scrub, which is plentiful at Lake Manatee State Park. Because of this, the park has been a major site for studies conducted concerning the plant. Population studies are done every three years to monitor the growth of the Florida golden aster as well as studies assessing the best ways to increase growth. The research includes noting the effects of soil and light on the flowers and what conditions are ideal for maximum germination rates.

A partner in helping preserve the flower has been the Bok Tower Gardens. They have actually cryogenically preserved the seeds of this plant in the event that they continue to be threatened in the future.

Though this little yellow flower appears to be unassuming, it is an integral part of the environment at Lake Manatee. The hope is that with proper protection and continued research, the Florida golden aster will soon no longer be an endangered plant species.

The Florida golden aster is a perennial herb. This plant grows approximately one to one and a half feet tall and has yellow daisy-like blooms about one inch in diameter. This herb has a short life cycle and reproduces by seeds, which are dispersed by the wind.

When the species was listed as endangered in 1986, all nine known populations of the species occurred in five locations in southeastern Hillsborough County. Since the listing of the species, increased survey efforts have resulted in the discovery of additional populations, including occurrences further inland from the initial coastal populations. Many of the newly discovered locations have since been acquired as conserva-

tion lands with active conservation management activities implemented to improve habitat conditions.

Also benefiting the species, outplantings have occurred on conservation lands in Hardee, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Pinellas counties.

The proposal to delist the Florida golden aster is based primarily on the current number of populations on protected conservation lands and because the geographic distribution has exceeded the criteria in the recovery plan.

This species was listed as endangered on Sept. 26, 1986 under the ESA. On Feb. 8, 1989, the Service released a recovery plan. Five-year reviews were completed in 2009 and 2017. Both indicated that the species’ status was improving.

10:00-11:00 am Forage Stockpiling and Hay-Dr. Joao Vendramini, UF/IFAS Forage Specialist, Range Cattle REC, Ona

pm Sponsored Lunch and Feed Vendor Trade Show

12:30-1:00 pm Maximizing Rumen Performance-Dr. Martha Thomas, Purina Grass Cattle Consultant

1:00-1:45 pm Early Weaning-Dr.

PLANNING AND PLANTING A COOL SEASON VEGETABLE GARDEN

By Anne Yasalonis, UF/IFAS Extension Polk County

It may be in the 90s and the air conditioning is working overtime, but it is time to think about cooler weather and planting a cool-season vegetable garden. Time to plan, prep and plant your cool-season vegetable garden. It is important to start with a plan for the vegetables and herbs that you will be growing this season and UF/IFAS Extension Polk County can help with that. Let’s get started.

• Create a plan: If you are new to vegetable gardening, figure out how much space you plan to allocate to your garden, so you know what to grow. Determine if you will grow in the ground, in raised beds, or in containers—or consider a combination of these methods. It is best to select a location that is in full sun for at least six hours, close to a water source, and easy to access for maintenance and harvesting. It can be helpful to draw a plan to map out your space.

• Prep your space: If you have an existing garden space that you need to get ready for the next growing season, remove all dead or dying plant material and weeds. Submit a soil sample of your existing soil so you know if any adjustments should be made to the pH prior to planting. Vegetable gardens should have a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Till in organic matter and just before you are ready to plant and then add any necessary nutrients using fertilizer. If you are creating a new garden, purchase, or create your own, well-drained potting mix. Find a recipe to create your own here: https://sfyl. ifas.ufl.edu/lawn-and-garden/homemade-potting-mix/.

• Plant your crops: Here is a list of vegetables and herbs that you can start now from either seed or starter plant. Arugula, beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbages, lettuces, collards, kale, Swiss chard, mustard, onions, radish, spinach, fennel, dill, cilantro, garlic, parsley, mint, and sweet potatoes. A more extensive list of vegetables by season can be found here: https://floridafresh.ifas.ufl.edu/ Home/PlantList.

Use a garden journal or calendar to record what vegetables were planted in each area of your garden so that you can rotate out of that plant family for the next gardening season. Crop rotation means that plants from the same family are not planted in the same location each season. This is important to minimize pests. These records can also be helpful in recording successes (and failures) each season. Purchase a Polk County Garden Guide and Journal from the UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Master Gardeners by calling (8630 519-1041. The Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide (https://edis.ifas.ufl. edu/publication/VH021) is a great resource for all gardeners and provides planting times, recommended varieties, and pest management resources. Of course, the Plant Clinic is always here to answer your gardening questions.

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 through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. If you are not in Polk County, Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic.

The Florida Master Gardener 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. An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Anne Yasalonis

Anne is the Residential Horticulture Agent and Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator at UF/IFAS Extension Polk County. She offers education to residents on landscaping and gardening in central Florida. Contact Anne at anneanne@ufl.edu or follow along on social media @PolkGardening.

FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT PLANTCITYMAINSTREET.ORG

O C T O B E R

1 9

T H U R S D A Y

R E G I S T R A T I O N

D E A T I L S :

h m e n t o f N e w F o r a g es

L u n c h & R o u n d T a b l e D i s c u s s i o n

P a s t u r e M e a s u r e m e n t

W a l k & T a l k i n t h e W e e d G a r d e n

P r e - r e g i s t r a t i o n i s r e q u i r e d . R e g i s t e r b y O c t o b e r 1 3 t h .

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h t t p s : / / 2 3 f o r a g e w o r k s h o p . e v e n t b r i t e . c o m A n E q u a l O p p o r t u n i t y I n s t i t u t i o n U F / I F A S E x t e n s i o n U n i v e r s i t y o f F l o r i d a I n s t i t u t e o f F o o d a n d A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s A n d r a J o h n s o n D e a n S i n g l e c o p i e s o f U F / I F A S E x t e n s i o n p u b l i c a t i o n s ( e x c l u d n g 4 - H a n d y o u t h p u b l i c a t i o n s ) a r e a v a i l a b l e f r e e t o F l o r i d a r e s i d e n t s f r o m c o u n t y U F / I F A S E x t e n s i o n o f f i c e s

The glabella is the space between your eyebrows

In 1927 Morris Frank became the recipient of the first U.S. dog guide, a German Shepherd named “Buddy.”

The term “couch potato” is the legal property of Robert Armstrong, who trademarked it in 1976.

Willie Mosconi, “Mr. Pocket Billiards,” played against professionals at the age of six.

You can use potato chips to start a fire.

The human tooth has approximately 50 miles of canals in it.

Smokey Bear has his own zip code – 20252.

Ants do not sleep.

The other day while in the local pharmacy to pick up a prescription, I passed by the area where they sold thermometers. There was one rectal thermometer that caught my eye. In bold print it stated, “Pre-Tested, 99% Accurate.” Now tell me, who in their right mind would buy a pre-tested rectal thermometer? Or better yet, who would take the job to pre-test them?

I was always taught that customer service is first and foremost to make a business successful. If that’s the case then a number of Plant City food chains need to shape up. The other day I stopped in for a bowl of chili and a drink. It was raining and I had to park far from the entrance, as all the parking spaces close to the door were full. When I got inside I noticed I was the only customer in the store. I asked the young lady taking my order whose cars were parked at the entrance. She replied cheerfully, “Oh, those belong to our employees.”

A few days later I had an interesting experience buying some food at a popular fast-food chain. The total came to $10.15. Not wanting a lot of change I gave the cashier a twenty-dollar bill, and a quarter. She looked at the money. Then the cash register, scratched her head, and gave me back a dime. I called her attention to the fact that I had given her a $20.00 bill. She smiled and said, “Sir do you think I owe you more”?

“Yes,” I said. “According to your cash register you owe me $10.10.”

I took my change, and moved over to pickup my order and the man in back of me just rolled his eyes and shook his head, and said, “I’ve seen it all now!”

Life goes on and I still wonder why we say “after dark” when it really is “after light.” Why is the third hand on a watch called the second hand? Why do we wash bath towels? Aren’t we clean when we use them? Why do they call it a TV set when you only have one? Why is it called a “building” when it is already built? And why do they advertise toilet paper? Everybody uses it!

I stopped in for the Plant City Chamber of Commerce “Business After Hours” at Tim Lopez’s Southside Farm Supply. They really have a lot to offer, and Tim is as happy as if he just caught his limit of speckle perch at Lake Thonotosassa. Tim said, “Al, I ran across something for your Rock’n Chair Chatter.”

I love it when my readers offer suggestions, so I said, “Tell me about it, Tim.”

Here is his story: A psychiatrist visited a Georgia mental institution and asked a patient, “Tell me sir, how did you get here? What is your problem?”

Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the September 2014 issue

Some things I don’t understand

The old fella replied, “Well, it all started when I got married and I guess I should never had done it. I married a widow with a grown daughter who then became my stepdaughter. My dad came to visit us, fell in love with my lovely stepdaughter, and then married her. And so my stepdaughter was now my stepmother. Soon, my wife had a son who was, of course, my daddy’s brother-in-law since he is the half-brother of my stepdaughter, who is now, of course, my daddy’s wife.

So, as I told you, when my stepdaughter married my daddy, she was at once my stepmother! Now, since my new son is brother to my stepmother, he also became my uncle. As you know, my wife is my step-grandmother since she is my stepmother’s mother. Don’t forget that my stepmother is my stepdaughter. Remember, too, that I am my wife’s grandson.”

“Wait just a minute,” he said, “You see, since I’m married to my step-grandmother, I am not only the wife’s grandson and her hubby, but I am also my own grandfather. Now sir, can you understand how I got put in this place?”

Tim told me buying Southside Farm & Pet Supply was the best thing his family has ever done. He said in his construction work he never meets as many people as he does at the store. Those farmers and ranchers always have a tall tale to tell. He recalled a farmer from Turkey Creek that came in the store and shared the story of a talking horse. As he tells it a jogger was running down Mud Lake road and was startled when a horse yells at him, “Hey buddy, come over to the fence, I want to talk with you.” Some what stunned the runner jogs over to the fence and says, “Were you talk-

ing to me?” The horse replies, “Yes I was, and man I have a problem. I won the Kentucky Derby a few years ago and this farmer bought me, and now all I do is watch joggers like you run up and down Mud Lake road. I am sick and tired of this daily routine. Why don’t you run up to the house and offer him $4000 to buy me? I promise you I can make you some money because I can still run.”

The jogger thought to himself, ‘Good grief, a talking horse.’ Dollar signs started appearing in his head. He jogs over to the house and the old farmer is sitting on he porch. He tells the farmer, “If you’re interested in selling that old nag over by the road, I’ll give you $4000 cash her.”

“Son, I go through this every day with that old horse. You can’t believe anything the horse says. She has never ever been to Kentucky.”

If you have any good farming stories to tell, drop over and talk with Tim Lopez at Southside Farm & Pet Supply! Who knows, they may end up in this column.

In closing, remember that the proper use of toiletries can forestall bathing for several days. However, if you live alone, deodorant is a waste of good money.

FOOTBALL SEASON STARTS SOON,

SO GATHER YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS FOR A TAILGATE, COMPLETE WITH FLORIDA-GROWN FOODS AND UF/IFAS CULTIVARS

By Brad Buck

It’s game day. The excitement around stadiums is palpable. The college football season just kicked off, and many fans will enjoy the company of family and friends while tailgating before and after the game.

That means food – lots of it.

Tailgaters might think about eating some Florida-grown grub, University of Florida experts say. That includes potatoes, beef, citrus, avocados (who wants guac?), tomatoes and more.

Many of the ingredients coming from Florida farms were developed and refined through years of research by UF/IFAS plant breeders. Those include citrus, strawberries, tomatoes and sweet corn. UF/IFAS researchers have developed fan favorites including Tasti-Lee™ tomatoes, Brilliance™ strawberries and Sugar Belle™ mandarins, among many others.

“The UF/IFAS citrus breeding program is known worldwide for its work to develop new citrus varieties of all types, to support the future of the industry in Florida,” said Fred Gmitter, professor of citrus breeding and genetics at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center. “Why not start your tailgating day off right with a cool glass of nutrient packed OJ at break-

fast? And certainly, it would be great to have Florida-grown grapefruit in classic retro cocktails such as a Brown Derby or a Greyhound, as game time approaches, or to celebrate the outcome after the game.”

Andrea Nikolai, a family and consumer sciences agent and registered dietitian for UF/IFAS Extension Polk County, gives lots of suggestions for eating Florida-grown food while you’re tailgating:

• Snack on peanuts or make some peanut butter dipping sauce for raw vegetables or chicken skewers. In Florida, about 75 percent of peanuts produced are made into peanut butter. “Did you know peanuts have more protein than any other nut?”

• Grill some Florida-grown lean beef patties or Florida grouper. Top them with slices of creamy avocados and tomatoes.

• Savor mango salsa.

• Gobble up some guacamole, with avocados and Florida tomatoes.

• Enjoy fruit skewers with strawberries and blueberries.

“Eating Florida-grown foods helps our local farmers and bolsters our local economy, and it also involves shorter food transportation distances,” Nikolai said. “This means the food is often fresher with more flavor and nutrients and fewer foodsafety risks. It’s Florida for the win.”

UF/IFAS varieties and Florida-grown foods are so popular, that they were featured in this month’s edition of Gator Nation News, a publication of UF Advancement.

Before and after eating, you’ll want to consider food safety. UF/IFAS experts offer many tips to make sure you eat well and go home from the game feeling well. Among them are:

• Wash your hands before any food preparation.

• Use separate cutting boards: one for raw meats and one for fruits and vegetables.

• Once food is prepared, keep it cold. The goal is to keep foods below 40 degrees so harmful bacteria don’t grow. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.

• When grilling, always use a meat thermometer.

• Perishable foods should not be left out for more than two hours. If it’s 90 degrees or warmer, that time drops to an hour.

UF/IFAS offers more tailgating food-safety tips.

ABOUT UF/IFAS

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/ IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. ifas.ufl.edu | @UF_IFAS

WHY FOOD IS OUR MIDDLE NAME

Feeding a hungry world takes effort. Nearly everything we do comes back to food: from growing it and getting it to consumers, to conserving natural resources and supporting agricultural efforts. Explore all the reasons why at ifas.ufl.edu/food or follow #FoodIsOurMiddleName.

CHERRY PLUMS: JUICY SUMMER TREAT

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

Cherry plums are a type of plum that is prized as much for its beautiful white or pink flowers as it is for its delicious fruit. Known as prunus cerasifera, cherry plums are a species of plum native to the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. They also grow in some parts of the United States. Cherry plums are highly prized for their flowers and foliage, which begin to bloom in March. The tree fruits from July to September. The flavor of cherry plum is sweet, a little tart, and juicy. The edible peel is thin, and each fruit contains a small central pit. The ripe fruit is round, about three centimeters in diameter, and the skin will be bright yellow or red, depending on the type.

Plums are stone-fruit, along with nectarines, apricots, cherries, and peaches; the fleshy part surrounds a shell with a seed inside. There are many types of plums, varying in flavor, size, and color. The United States, France, and Chile are the world’s top producers of plums. Florida’s plums are in peak season right now.

More recently, you may have seen Very Cherry plums at the grocery store. This is a hybrid between a plum and a cherry and was introduced in 2011. The taste is very sweet and is produced in California, and harvested between June and September.

Nutritional Profile

Cherry plums are small, sweet, and nutritious. They are a fantastic source of calcium, phosphate, potassium, vitamins and minerals, all of which are necessary for maintaining an efficient metabolism and a healthy nervous system. Cherry plums contain vitamins A and C, both of which are powerful antioxidants and can be used to promote healthy skin and good health.

Cherry plums contain a particularly high amount of soluble fiber, which has been linked to healthy cholesterol levels and improved cognitive function. People who struggle with obesity, diabetes, or other metabolic disorders can also find themselves benefiting from cherry plums’ low sugar content.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one medium plum (66 g) contains 36.3 calories, 0.52 g of protein, 0.41 g of fat, 8.6 g of carbohydrate, and 1.0 g of fiber. It also provides 10.5% of the Daily Recommended Value (% DV) for Vitamin C, 4.3% for Vitamin A, and 3.3% for potassium.

Antioxidants: Fight off disease

Cherry plums are high in disease-fighting antioxidants, which work to neutralize destructive free radicals in the body. When healthy cells are damaged, they are more susceptible to dis-

ease and certain types of cancer, and antioxidants may help slow the progression of conditions like asthma, arthritis, and colon cancer. Diets that contain fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C, including plums, are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer.

Vitamin C: For a strong immune system

Cherry plums are a very good source of vitamin C, which has many important functions in the body. Eating plums or prunes with a food containing vitamin C significantly raises the amount of iron your body absorbs. Adequate intake and absorption of iron is necessary to prevent anemia. Vitamin C also supports the body’s immune system in its ability to fight infections and viruses. Additionally, this vitamin is involved in keeping capillaries, gums, and skin healthy and supple.

Fiber: For regularity and good health

Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases, by lowering blood cholesterol levels and slowing the progression of heart disease in high-risk individuals. Fiber also promotes bowel regularity and increases satiety levels, which can aid in weight control. Cherry plums are high in both soluble and insoluble fiber.

How to select and store

For optimal taste, choose a ripe plum that yields slightly to gentle pressure and has a fragrant smell. Look for richly colored skin that is free of cuts and blemishes. You can also pick firm fruits since plums continue to ripen even after picking. The ripening process can be accelerated by placing the fruit in a paper bag overnight. Once ripe, refrigerate plums for up to one week. Rinse under cool running water before eating or preparing. Plums can also be frozen for later use.

How to enjoy

Fresh cherry plums are delicious and juicy eaten out of hand. They can be pickled, stewed, or made into jam or chutney. Dried, salted plums are a popular sweet-salty Asian snack, which are eaten like candy. Plums can be chopped and added to cereal, oatmeal, salad, or even ice cream. Poached plums make a light dessert.

Enjoy fresh cherry plums during its peak season today, knowing you will get loads of nutrition with every juicy, sweet-tart bite.

Selected References

http://www.uga.edu

http://www.whfoods.com

http://aic.ucdavis.edu/profiles/

REBECCA “BECKY” FINLEY

New Florida CattleWomen’s President

By Jim Frankowiak

Polk County resident and long-time cattle industry member, Rebecca “Becky” Finley, is the new president of Florida CattleWomen, Inc. (FCW). Born in Winter Haven, her pioneering family traces its roots to the 1800s in north Florida and Becky has “never known anything different than raising cattle.”

Her father, the late Earli Sullivan, was considered by many “a true cracker cowman” and Sullivan’s FC Ranch near Polk City is a cow-calf operation actively overseen and operated by the matriarch, Marlene Sullivan. Becky’s family members all live on or near the Polk County ranch. Five generations were present and working at the time of this interview as calves were being loaded for shipment to a local livestock market.

Those present and working at the cowpens included Becky’s mother Marlene Sullivan; husband, James Finley; son, Hunter Holley; son-inlaw, Mike Facente; grandchildren, Carrie Pearson, Kaylee Facente and Karlin Facente; as well as great-grandson, Creek Pearson. In addition to ongoing involvement in ranch operations, Becky’s daughter, Amie Facente, serves as a Division of Animal Industry Agriculture and Consumer Protection Supervisor with the Florida Department

of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS); son, Dusty Holley, is the Director of Field Services for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association (FCA); and son, Hunter Holley, is the foreman/manager of Sullivan’s FC Ranch, as well as a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) pickup man. Becky’s goals for her year as FSW President parallel those in Russell ‘Red” Steagall’s song, “Inside the Fence.” If you know or listen to the song, you will note that its lyrics capture the challenges of cattle ranching and the ultimate goal of having cows “all inside the same fence.”

Founded in 1961 as the Florida Cowbelles, Inc., the FCW conducts and participates in a variety of activities that - in cooperation with the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and Florida Beef Council – have as their purpose: To foster the well-being of the beef industry through education and promotion.

“The State of Florida has approximately 40 county CattleWomen affiliations,” said Finley. “Florida CattleWomen Inc. is also a very active affiliate of the American National CattleWomen organization. FCW chooses and plans events and activities after assessing their ability to assist in accomplishing our priorities.”

Those priorities are:

• Promotion of beef consumption

• Educating the public about the Beef Industry’s Environmental and Animal Welfare Practices

• Promoting legislative awareness

• Educating the FCW membership

In addition to her long-term involvement with FCW, Becky has also been associated with 4-H and FFA as her children grew up. She also served as a 4-H Agent and leader in De Soto County. Becky became an FCW member in the 1980s and served on the Executive Board until 1998. She joined the Executive Team once again in 2018 and

began her FCW member-approved journey to the Presidency, serving as Chaplain, Parliamentarian, Secretary, Treasurer, President-Elect and President as of this past June.

“It’s very important for both members and prospective members to understand that my position as FCW President is not at all about me, but them,” she said, and that is related to her theme, ‘All Inside the Same Fence.’ I don’t want any member to feel like they can’t step up and be involved. This organization works very hard to promote the beef industry and educate consumers and members. We need strong, passionate individuals to accomplish these tasks. Our membership feels a sense of responsibility and loyalty to this organization that promotes their livelihood.”

Current FCW activities and events planned for the immediate future include participation in Tampa’s Junior League Holiday Market, the Florida State Fair information booth, Agricultural literacy programs, various beef promotions and educational workshops. “That is by no means a closed list,” Becky noted. “I welcome ideas and suggestions from members for added opportunities to help us achieve our purpose and include them as we do so. And, this is not limited to only statewide activities, but things we can do at the county and local levels,” she added.

In addition, “We believe in and strongly support youth in agriculture through the Beef Ambassador Program, and college, trade school, 4-H and FFA scholarships,” said Becky. Scholarship funding comes from a variety of sources, including private sponsorship such as the Justin Gill Memorial Trade School Scholarship or the University of Florida Veterinary School Scholarship funded through the sale of a donated bull from Barnett Angus Ranches (Wilkes Barnett) each June at the annual convention.

In addition to President Becky Finley, the 2023-24 FCW officers and board members include:

• President-Elect: Eden Yarborough

• Treasurer: Lucy Bowers

• Secretary: Anna Kirkland

• Parliamentarian: Debora Whaley

• Chaplain: Hailey Tomkow

• Bookkeeper: Vina Jeans Banks

• Immediate Past President: Holly Newsome

• 2021-2022 Past President: Michele Curts

• 2019-2021 Past President: Casie Holloway For more information about the FCW and its activities and opportunities, visit www.flacattlewomen.org.

By Brad Buck

When you’re perusing the produce section, you’re looking for fresh fruits and vegetables. If not eaten within a few days after harvest, many age quickly and get thrown out, leading to food waste, say University of Florida experts.

Fruits and vegetables age differently after they’ve been harvested, so Tie Liu wants to know how crops age in that time after they leave the farm and before they arrive at the market. Liu, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of horticultural sciences, led a team of researchers that published recent research putting them closer to ensuring your fruits and vegetables arrive as fresh as possible at the grocery store. In this study, Liu studied broccoli.

While broccoli heads are still on the plant, they develop into flower bunches, but once they’re harvested, they wither, turn yellow and die, said Jeff Brecht, a UF/IFS professor of horticultural sciences and a study co-author.

To solve the puzzle of why produce ages differently when it’s harvested than when it’s left on the plant, UF/IFAS scientists use genomics and genome editing.

For the study, the scientists compared the genes that are expressed during aging of broccoli heads on the plant to the genes that are expressed in harvested broccoli.

Scientists took broccoli from the UF/IFAS horticultural sciences teaching garden and used RNA-sequencing technology to identify genes associated with broccoli tissue aging. RNA is a messenger that produces the important parts of instructions for cell and tissue growth. RNA-sequencing technology lets researchers read these messengers and understand what the plant is doing, Liu said.

Using the genes they identified, scientists found that harvesting turns on some genes that are stress-related, including some that are related to ethylene – the plant ripening hormone. They identified other genes in the postharvest processes that are related to the loss of water and nutrients from the plant.

“With these results, we feel we’ve identified targets for reducing the negative effects of harvesting on broccoli,” Liu said. “The results should apply immediately to numerous broccoli relatives like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, kale and bok choy. It’s likely that they will also apply to many other fruits and vegetables as well, hopefully resulting in produce that remains fresher and more appealing, as well as healthier, once it gets to consumers’ homes.”

In addition to Liu and Brecht; Utsab Ghimire, one of Liu’s master’s students; Fahong Yu, a data scientist at the UF Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research bioinformatics core; and Eleni Pliakoni, professor of postharvest handling at Kansas State University helped with the research.

ABOUT UF/IFAS

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.

ifas.ufl.edu | @UF_IFAS

WHY FOOD IS OUR MIDDLE NAME

Feeding a hungry world takes effort. Nearly everything we do comes back to food: from growing it and getting it to consumers, to conserving natural resources and supporting agricultural efforts. Explore all the reasons why at ifas.ufl.edu/ food or follow #FoodIsOurMiddleName.

UF scientists start to discover how to keep fruits and vegetables fresher before they arrive at the grocery store

Recipes

Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Florida Beef Vegetable and Pasta Casserole

Chef Justin Timineri

Ingredients q q

1 pound Florida lean ground beef

1 pint Florida mushrooms, slice thin

1 Florida zucchini, medium dice

1 Florida squash, medium dice

1 pound pasta (your favorite)

2 garlic cloves, chopped fine

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped fine

1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped fine

PREPARATION

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare pasta shy of al dente, drain and set aside. In a saucepot add the milk, heavy cream, butter, and all-purpose seasoning. Bring to a simmer and add the Parmesan cheese, ½ cup cheddar cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Preheat a sauté pan on medium-high heat, season ground beef and brown, draining excess oil. Next, sauté the vegetables until crisp tender. In a large bowl combine the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, cooked

pasta, fresh herbs, ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, and mix. Place into a buttered casserole dish and pour the cheese sauce over the mixture. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top and bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup milk

½ stick unsalted butter

½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded

1 teaspoon oil, for cooking

1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning (your favorite)

Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

Florida Spinach and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms

Ingredients q q

1-pound Florida mushrooms

4 cups fresh Florida spinach

5 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

½ onion, diced fine

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

6 ounces cream cheese,

PREPARATION

softened to room temperature

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Oil, for cooking

Pinch of red pepper flakes

Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cook bacon until crispy and drain on paper towel (reserve ¼ cup of bacon drippings). Coarsely crumble bacon. Heat 2 teaspoons reserved bacon drippings in skillet

over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer to bowl and allow to cool. Mix in bacon, spinach, feta, cream cheese and crushed red pepper. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Toss mushrooms and remaining bacon fat in large bowl to coat and season with salt and pepper. Place mushrooms,

rounded side down, on baking sheet and bake until centers fill with liquid (about 15 minutes). Turn mushrooms over and bake for another 5 minutes. Remove from oven, fill with spinach mixture, and return to oven for additional 7 minutes. Transfer to platter and serve warm.

EXTENSION HOLDING ON-FARM PEST MANAGEMENT TOOLS WORKSHOP FOR BERRIES AND GRAPES

By Jim Frankowiak

Manatee County Extension is hosting an on-farm workshop for integrated pest management (IPM) tools in strawberry, blueberry, blackberry and grape insects on Tuesday, September 19, at Blue Lily Farms, 30902 Taylor Grade Road in Duette, Florida 34219.

The on-farm workshop is free for entrepreneurs, beginning or seasoned producers, offering IPM tools with the goal of achieving a clear understanding of at least 3 to 4 pests and a similar number of IPM techniques to manage them.

The workshop will cover the following topics: Insect and disease management in strawberry

and blackberry; nematode management in small fruits: management of key insect pests in blueberries; grape production practices in Florida; blackberry breeding and production in Florida; small fruit crop production practices, and how to take adequate photos and samples for diagnostics.

Workshop presenters will include Extension staff members and faculty from the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Gulf Coast Research and Education Center. Lunch will be included in the workshop and continuing education units (CEUs) will be offered. To register, visit https://bit.ly/43snAJQ.

AFTER THE STORM

By Maggie Fussell

It is amazing how a storm blows through, isn’t it? It can be a rain shower, a thunderstorm, a hurricane, a tornado or a little storm between family members. It stirs up, sits for a while, and passes on leaving destruction or restoration behind. Recently we experienced hurricane Idalia and thank the Lord she did not bring a lot of devastation to the Polk County area. However, Idalia destroyed other places. When Idalia made landfall, she traveled at around 80 mph. She was a fast storm, but she still damaged homes, pushed down trees, and flooded towns.

Before the storm, you worry about all the what-ifs and trying to prepare. During the storm, you are struggling for the strength to move forward and have peace. After the storm you discover the reality of what happened, you make peace with it, and you have hope. That is supposed to be the cycle of a storm. You worry about it, you live through it and you come out of it stronger than before.

The preparation for a storm is stressful. You must buy extra water and food. You try to get gas for the vehicles and generator because you do not know how long you will be without power. Packing things away and shutting up the barns. Letting the animals out and praying during it all. When the storm hits there is the concern of what it’s doing. How is it affecting the house, the land, and the animals? When the storm passes there is relief. A peace to know that it is over. Gratitude that everything turned out alright. Greater knowledge of the do’s and don’ts of preparing for the next storm. Sympathy for the

many that the storm brought destruction to. After the storm, there is a revelation of God’s blessing. The storm is a testament to His love to see you through those desperate times.

For farmers and ranchers, a storm brings challenges and more work. The storm can destroy a crop, harm a herd, or not cause any damage at all. Farmers and ranchers have to be ready for potential threats and have a plan of action. Those involved in agriculture must prepare for the storm, face it when it comes, and work to restore what the storm took. Some storms will be tough. Some storms will come and go like a fall breeze. The actions you take after the storm make an impact. How you restore the crops, restore the livestock, restore the damage that was done all impacts the future of your business. Be mindful of the what-ifs, be prepared for the challenges, and be ready to ask God to take control.

The storms may not be easy but just wait until after the storm. Look for the small blessings that come in the aftermath. It can be the restoration of your home or work. Hope for a better tomorrow. Peace in your soul. Unity among your family. Or the strength to get through today when you are at your breaking point. God always sneaks a blessing in.

As we enter the last few months of hurricane season and prepare for new storms, I pray for you. I pray that you have the endurance to withstand it and the wisdom to see the blessings that come after the storm.

NEWS BRIEFS

Compiled by Jim Frankowiak

Hillsborough County 4-H Members Receive Scholarships

4-H Club members Kailee Roach and Elizabeth Sutton were recipients of 4-H scholarships given at the Florida 4-H University program held last month. Roach, a student at Hillsborough Community College (HCC) received a National Trip Award Scholarship to serve as a state delegate at the upcoming National 4-H Congress and Conference. She also received the Teki Hinton Ericson 4-H Memorial Scholarship.

Elizabeth Sutton, who is currently attending the State University of New York at Cobleskill where she is pursuing an Animal Science degree, was awarded the Hillsborough County 4-H Foundation Youth Excellence Scholarship.

Farm Bureau Members Enjoy Best-in-Class Travel Service

Farm Bureau Voyager allows members to enjoy a travel platform with free access to travel booking capabilities and significant savings on hotels, resorts, car rental, flights and more. Visit: MyFFBF.org to gain access.

Farm Bureau Annual Meeting Set for October 25-27 in Orlando

Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s annual meeting is set for October 25-27 and will be held in Orlando. More information is available at: FloridaFarmBureau.org/events.

New Podcast – Rural Recharge – Available from Florida Farm Bureau

Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith is hosting the new monthly podcast “Rural Recharge” which covers important Ag topics and issues facing farmers and ranchers. More information is available at: FloridaFarmBureau.org/podcasts.

CattleCon24 Registration Open

Registration and lodging are open for the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Trade Show January 31 – February 2, 2024 in Orlando. CattleCon24 is where cattle producers nationally gather for business meetings, educational sessions and family fun. For more information, visit: convention.ncba.org.

USDA Accepting EQIP Applications

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications for its Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) on a continuing basis. By providing financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers, EQIP addresses natural resource concerns and provides environmental benefits, including improved water and air quality, conserved ground and surface water, reduced soil erosion and sedimentation on improved or created wildlife habitat. For more information, contact the Plant City USDA Service Center, 201 S. Collins Street, Suite 201. Telephone: 813/752-1474.

Ag In The Classroom Offering Two Grants

Florida Ag In The Classroom (FAITC) has two grant opportunities:

• FAITC’s Teacher Grant is open to general education teachers in Pre-K to 12th grade who want to use agricultural concepts to teach core subject areas. Applications are due by September 30. For more information and applications, visit https://faitc.org/teacher-grants/.

• FAITC’s School Garden Grant Program is designed to fund school garden projects that will educate Florida students about the importance of agriculture, healthier meal options and allow teachers to use a school garden to teach Florida standards. Applications for $500 grants will close on October 31 or until funds have been depleted. Visit https:// faitc.org/school-garden-grants/ for more information and an online application.

USDA Awards Florida Over $3.8 Million in Specialty Crop Grants

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has awarded over $3.8 million in Fiscal Year 2023 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) funding to Florida. With this grant, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) will fund projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crop products and create new market opportunities for the state’s specialty crop producers.

Through the SCBGP, the FDACS will fund 20 projects. Among FDACS’s projects, is funding to the Florida Specialty Crop Foundation to increase sales of Florida radishes by educating consumers about recipes and health benefits as well as conducting outreach through sampling in retail stores and a farm tour for South Florida chefs. Additional funded projects focus in areas such as pest tolerance and management, use of drone and artificial technology for yield forecasting, and research. More information about these awards is available at 2023 SCBGP Awarded Grants (pdf).

Time Of Transition

by John Dicks

There have been many times in my life I have vowed never to be one of those guys who started conversations with younger folks with the preface of “well, back in the day, we used to” blah, blah, blah!

It’s just one of those things that is sure to evoke a serious “eye roll” from everyone within earshot of the comment!

After all, things are constantly changing, and so, too is life. What we did 50 or even 10 years ago may simply not work, nor even be appropriate, for doing in today’s world. Besides, other than for a chuckle and the novelty of a story, it’s really not all that mesmerizing to people like my granddaughters for them to hear such fascinating things as “we were able to survive with a choice of only three TV channels” or “our only way to talk on a phone was with it attached to the wall with a “leash” (of sorts)!

Nonetheless, it is worth noting, if even only occasionally, that time is flying, if not fleeting, and reminiscing does help in putting things into their proper perspective.

Consider, for example, this time of year; which I often refer to as a “time of transition” from summer into fall.

School for the kids has already geared up full speed for the year, focusing for the moment their brains in the proper direction. Also, there’s America’s passion with football, with the season passing quickly in earnest, and, of course, the erstwhile great Gators already kicking themselves out of contention for anything special.

Then, too, in this “time of transition,” the weather plays fickle with us, swinging back and forth between more of a sweltering summer and a prelude to an early autumn. Consistency would be nice, but we just don’t seem to get it with our climate here in Florida.

Even with hurricanes, we can’t seem to move on, at least not just yet. We’re still

in the season so everybody continues to check the Weather app to see if another tropical storm has been assigned a letter name. Still, really, nobody wants to even think about it, let alone bring it up in conversation.

This last one, Idalia, which zeroed in on Florida just a few weeks ago, seemed like a hurried soul. She matured off Mexico and zipped towards us like she just wanted to take a quick look. Blessed and fortunate we were that essentially our area just got soaked, along with a bit of flooding and howling wind to capture our attention.

Not so fortunate were friends north of here where Florida takes its bend westward towards Tallahassee. One area hit hard, you likely already know, was Horseshoe Beach, which has become a popular spot for serious fishing and a huge draw for many in central Florida to inhabit each year for the first few days of scallop season.

Two friends I have with vacation places there are likely located less than about a mile apart. Regardless, Idalia seemed to pick and choose where she unleashed her fury, barely sprinkling one friend’s place with some rain and wind leaving a bit of yard debris. The other, though, caught the brunt of her slaughter and it all but destroyed the place!

By contrast, those of us here in central Florida were some of the lucky ones.

We were finishing our foray into Maine, trekking as “few-hikers” a few bits on the last section of the Appalachian Trail. Leaving a spectacular scene of Mount Katahdin within our view, with it boldly marking the end of the AT, we cut short our journey home to prepare for what was then a tropical storm.

Fortunate and blessed, like most, but not everyone that I know, for us the hurricane essentially just came and went. I hope so for you, too, as a big part of this “time of transition” from summer into fall.

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.

• Truck Farming • Citrus • Game Hunting

FIREARMS SAFETY & CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS

By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff

I’m sure you’re aware that in Florida, you are no longer required to obtain a permit to carry a firearm concealed. Back on July 1st, a new law in this state went into effect which ensures your 2nd Amendment right to carry a firearm concealed in most circumstances.

Even though you are no longer required to take a firearms safety class to carry concealed in Florida, I invite you to take one of the monthly Firearms Safety Courses that we offer at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It only costs $45, and you get valuable information and instruction that every responsible owner of a firearm should have, plus this is the course that is required by the Florida Department of Agriculture in order for you to obtain a concealed weapons permit.

Some might read that last sentence and think, “But you don’t need a permit anymore in Florida.” That statement is partially true.

You don’t need a permit to carry a firearm concealed in Florida, but you still need a permit if you want to carry a concealed knife with a blade longer than four inches.

There are a couple of other advantages to obtaining a permit in Florida. One reason is if you travel out of state with a concealed weapon; many states still require a permit and offer reciprocity to Florida permit-holders. Another reason is that Florida permit-holders are exempt from the 3-day wait period when purchasing firearms.

We have seen a good number of long-time owners of firearms come through our classes. They like to use the class as a refresher for reasons of safety and practice. The classes are taught by some of the best firearms experts at the Sheriff’s Office.

Can you purchase a firearm, never practice with it, and just throw it in a drawer in case you ever need it? Sure—but I would not recommend it.

Firearm ownership is a right in the United States, but being safe and proficient with one is a great responsibility.

You should practice shooting with it. You need to be comfortable with it and know how to properly and safely hold one.

Firearms need to be stored safely. If you ever have children in your house, all of your firearms must be safely secured away from them. And likewise, if you carry a firearm, make absolutely sure that the wrong hands don’t get to it.

Don’t leave firearms unsecured in vehicles at night, for example. Many thieves target unlocked vehicles, or cars and trucks that are easy to break into (pretty much all of them) just to steal guns.

Hopefully, you will never face a situation where you need to use a firearm to protect yourself, your family, or someone else. But if you own a firearm, I implore you to acquaint yourself and fully understand the Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground laws in Florida.

For all gun owners in this state, read the Florida State Statutes which specifically lays out the law.

And if you want to take the Firearms Safety Course offered by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, you can look at the Events Calendar on the PCSO website at www.polksheriff.org/events or you can call the PCSO Training Center at 863-534-7200 to ask about the class.

Welcome Back

As summer vacation draws to a close, Mosaic welcomes students, faculty and staff back for another successful school year. We also salute the parents, community members and other businesses supporting education across the region.

Every Fall, Mosaic employees look forward to partnering with schools on academic and extracurricular initiatives from 4H & FFA to furthering innovative STEM learning.

Let’s work together to cultivate the most valuable crop of alla bright future.

We help the world grow the food it needs.

www.mosaicfloridaphosphate.com

A Closer Look Bamboo Frog Gig

Naturally Amazing Activities

by Sean Green | Photos by April Green

This month we are featuring a project that can be made very quickly and if used correctly can mean the difference between a miserable night of camping and a great night. Were talking about frog gigging, an activity that dates to the earliest use of tools. A frog gig is a tool used to hunt frogs as a food source. Let’s face it, despite our best effort, there will be days that the fishing is a bust. If you are camping and your family is relying on your skills for a warm and healthy meal, the trusty ole frog gig rarely fails. Frogs are indeed usually easier to catch than fish where populations are abundant, like in Florida. Now you could go out to the local hardware store and for under 20 bucks purchase a set of metal frog gig spikes and a sturdy rod and be ready to go in as long as it takes to hammer the spikes to the top of the rod, but that kind of takes the romance out of the art. The gig we are making this month can be made with stuff you would either already have with you or materials that can be found in the wild. Bamboo is a good choice of wood because it is light weight and naturally more resistant to water than other woods, after all it grows in or very near water. We wrapped ours in leather because, well, I had some laying around and the cats have plenty more to play with. Besides, leather is sturdy and a bit more weather resistant than cloth or twine. I did not have the time to coat the leather, but it can be have been coated in wax or pine resin, by heating the substance up and coating it to provide a water resistant coating that will last years.

Materials:

Staff Cane or Bamboo at least 1” diameter

Spacers Cane or Bamboo at about 1/8” diameter

Wrap Leather, Twine, plant fibres.

Knife Commercial (or chipped from rock if you’re going all out)

Coating (Pine Pitch Glue, Hide Glue, Starch Glue, Wax) * natural recipes not included in this tutorial

Directions:

Split the bamboo into four equal quadrants with a knife

Tap small diameter piece of bamboo in between the tines to spread them apart

Weave leather lace through the tines of the bamboo staff and around the spacers to secure them.

Wrap an outer layer of leather lace neatly from bottom to top and back for two layers of leather wrap. Tie the wrap off

Coat with wax or pitch is desired (waterproofing)

Sharpen each twine to a point. (short angles are sturdier)

This is not a tool that can be used for capturing frogs for observation or pets. One of the values that my family instilled in me from a very young age is “You kill it, You eat it,” maybe that’s why us Cajuns have a reputation of eating anything that does not eat them first, it is a culture and a lifestyle, and one that I hope our readers share. All frogs, (except for Pine Barrens tree-frogs, gopher frogs and Florida bog frogs), may be taken throughout the year by gigs without a bag limit. Take your fill but nothing more. Enjoy!

Soak Leather Mold Leather

Trim Leather

Natural methods italicized

A Closer Look by Sean Green | Photos by April Green American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus)

Frogs and children have a long and endearing history together. Games in which our children mimic frogs have endured thousands of years. Classic literature is filled with fantastic stories of stately and magical frogs. For many children, the frog was one of our first pets, welcomed or not. Catching frogs was a natural transition from lizards that preceded snakes. If you were anything like me, you already knew a few of them by name before they offered them up in school biology classes. Now as many of us have gotten older, the fascination with frogs may have turned to their value for fishing, or perhaps an appreciation for the distinct biological characteristics of both native and exotic species. For many of us here in the south, the nighttime song of frogs has a romantic appeal. You may think it sounds funny, but it’s no secret that frog legs make a delicious meal, and if you are lucky enough to find a mate that will go trudging through the swamps at night with you to gather enough frogs for a home cooked meal, well, rest assured, you found the right one. But enough of the details, the point is, frogs are important to all of us in so many ways, it’s time we took a closer look. This month we will feature the classic American Bullfrog, a frog that truly brings “Joy to the World” …. Despite an occasional Three Dog Night.

The Latin name Rana catesbeiana has been around for a long time and is what scientist call the American bullfrog. In 2006 it was determined that the genus Rana was a collection of several genera and it was proposed that the American bullfrog be moved into the genus Lithobates, a subgenus of Ranidae, the true frogs. The name proposed is derived from litho(stone) and the Greek bates (to tread), means one who treads on stone. The subdivisions of the Ranidae are still a matter of dispute but gaining acceptance and will remain volatile until the results of more investigation can refine taxonomic description. For most of us, we can get by just calling it a bullfrog and most people understand what we are talking about. The bullfrog is North America’s largest frog and can reach lengths of eight inches and close to two pounds. A frog of this size folks can and HAS been known to eat young snakes, crawfish, other frogs, and even small birds.

Although the native range is the eastern United States, there are now thousands of natural occurrences of the bullfrog

worldwide that continue to spread. Exportation of live frogs began early in the 20th century for their commercial value to biological supply houses, fish bait suppliers, the pet trade, and pond landscapers and even as a human food source. Unfortunately, when introduced to environments outside their natural range, the bullfrog can quickly become invasive, even in North America. In fact, bullfrogs are listed on the IUCN’s list of 100 worst invasive species (Lowe et al. 2000). Consequently, there are no initiatives required to conserve this species; eradication is in now the greater conservation concern. The good news is, these frogs are very good to eat. It may sound cliché, but the texture and flavor of well done frog legs is much like tiny chicken wings of white meat. Considered fine dining in many parts of the world, frog legs are typically associated with French cuisine, but quickly became a southern tradition in North America. If you have never experienced eating frog legs, look for local restaurants that typically serve up southern cuisine and seafood and treat yourself to a meal you will never forget.

If you are adventurous, bullfrogs are abundant, and easy to catch. You will find these beauties in permanent ponds lakes, rivers, ditches, and swamps. They can be found in small quantities during the day, but the bullfrog is a nocturnal species and that is where the fun begins. There are few hiking trips you will ever take that equal the excitement of sloshing through knee high swamp at night with little more than a frog gig and a headlamp. You tolerate the mosquitoes for the adventure and the reward is delicious. Even if you do not eat frog legs, there are ways to capture the frogs without injuring it for an equally satisfying educational experience and release to the wild. Through September will be when metamorphosis can be witnessed in the wild. Those that are in their final stages of metamorphosis are going on two years old and have survived tremendous odds. Regardless of where your interest may lie in your frog adventure, one thing you can honestly say if you do go out looking for frogs is that you spent the night chasing an army through the swamp. A group of frogs is called an “army” of frogs, just some silly trivia fun. Go ahead, take a closer look, and enjoy yourself out there.

Business Up Front Septic Solutions Environmental, Inc.

By Libby Hopkins

Septic Solutions Environmental, Inc. is a fully licensed and insured company that is backed by over 25 years in the business serving Polk County, FL. “We strive to provide the best service at the most affordable rates and employ only the best and brightest minds to get the job done right,” said owner Dory Bryant. “Each of our technicians is state certified and trained to install, repair and help you maintain your septic system. Whatever your septic needs may be, our team has got you covered.”

Dory got into the septic business right after he graduated from high school. “I worked with that company for several years and then decided to go out on my own,” said Dory. “As our business began to grow, I’d have my son, Lane help me over the summers, and being he was so young, he was able to pick up the trade and learned quickly.”

Septic Solutions Environmental, Inc. is a true family-owned and operated company. Dory’s wife, Felicity, works in the office while Dory and his son work out in the field. “Lane has been with me fulltime for six years now and he runs the business with me.”

If you ask Dory what is his favorite part of his job, he’ll tell you it’s the people he meets. “The best part of my job is getting outside and meeting new people and going to different places every day,” said Dory. “We also love being in the dirt. What kid didn’t like playing in the dirt when they were little?

Now, I get to play in the dirt full-time. It’s also not as nasty as people think.”

Septic Solutions does septic tank installations, septic tank pumping, drain field repairs and other septic maintenance.

All of their technicians are licensed and insured by the state, county and city. They offer job-specific warranties including up to a three-year warranty on new construction. They can handle certified NSF 245 septic systems as well as drip irrigation systems. “All of our staff is highly trained, and safety is our first priority,” Dory said.

A solid and modern septic tank is something you can’t afford to cut corners on. If your system is older, less efficient, or shows signs of unsanitary leakage, then it’s time to upgrade. Septic Solutions Environmental, Inc. offers free estimates on all installations and flexible financing options, so you can always expect affordability, quality and reliability.

Keeping things local is very important to Dory. “Outsiders may not do quality work and charge more for repairs,” Dory said. “When you work with local companies you get to know your customers and they get to know you. By keeping things local, you also get to help other local businesses, so it’s kind of like you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.”

If you’d like to learn more about the services offered at Septic Solutions Environmental, Inc. you can visit their website at www.septicsolutionsfl. com or call 863-874-4821.

CATTLE CSI: UNVEILING THE MYSTERY - EXPERT TIPS FOR DIAGNOSING THE CAUSE OF DEATH ON BEEF CATTLE FARMS

By Bridget Stice,

Dealing with death losses on the ranch can be disheartening. Every beef producer knows that this is just part of ranching life. But sometimes, deaths can’t be explained, which leaves ranchers with more questions. Good observation, a strong relationship with a vet (known as the Veterinarian Client-Patient Relationship or VCPR) and the local Farm Service Agency (FSA); and preparation can help livestock owners eliminate possibilities and potentially recover some losses.

Observing the herd, identifying normal and unusual behavior, and checking pastures for harmful weeds, predators, and things that could hurt the herd, are vital to start looking into dangers for a beef cattle owner.

Calving season can be a challenging time of year. Livestock owners need to regularly monitor their herd to make sure calves are being born without problems. Finding a miscarried fetus or a dead calf, with or without a deceased cow, is worrying. A good working relationship with a local large animal veterinarian can help determine death losses. Animal losses warrant a call to the veterinarian. A very useful and important service available to livestock owners and veterinarians alike is the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consum-

er Services Division of Animal Industry’s Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab (BADDL) located in Kissimmee, Florida. The lab offers diagnostic services to potentially identify the cause of death, among other valuable services to Florida’s livestock industry.

There are a variety of tests that can be used to try and determine the cause of death; however, individually, these tests can be very expensive. The best option when experiencing death losses is to request a necropsy examination, performed by a trained pathologist. The BADDL offers three different necropsy examination services. The Food and Fiber Animal Necropsy Exam at $100/animal; the Forensics, Research, and Insurance Exam at $250/animal; or the Necropsy in a Bottle (microscopic examination only) at $75/animal. The Food and Fiber Animal Necropsy Exam is the most likely and cost-saving option chosen for beef cattle operators. It includes both the gross necropsy exam, the histopathological exam, and all in-house bacteriological, parasitological, molecular, virologic, and serological testing. Additional testing to address concerns such as toxicity or mineral deficiencies can be tested through other accredited labs with client approval and consensus of financial responsibility. The BADDL offers this service

Lauren Butler, Christa Kirby, Dr. Todd Thrift, Lindsey Wiggins and Dr. Joao Bittar, UF/IFAS

This article is adapted from UF/IFAS EDIS Publication, “Tips on Determining the Cause of Death in the Beef Cattle Operation”

at a price well below the cost of the actual testing procedures. A veterinarian will best be able to help livestock producers decide which test is best for their situation.

The logistics of submitting an adult carcass to the lab can be a challenge but is recommended for thorough examination by a pathologist. When submitting a whole carcass is not possible, a field necropsy may be performed by a submitting veterinarian. Fetuses and calf carcasses can be more easily submitted in their entirety.

Examination results are typically returned within 20 business days, depending on the need for additional testing. For further information about the Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Clinic, submission forms, and contact information, visit their website at www.FDACS.gov/BADDL.

In rare instances, losses are caused by adverse weather conditions or predation by certain predators. The United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (FSA) administers the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (the 2018 Farm Bill) authorized the LIP to provide benefits to eligible livestock producers for livestock deaths in excess of normal mortality caused by eligible loss conditions, including eligible disease and attacks by animals reintroduced into the wild by the federal government or protected by federal law. For more information on eligibility, contact your local FSA office. https://www.fsa.usda.gov/index

While no livestock producer wants to face death losses on their operation, personal observation and preparation, a working relationship with their veterinarian (current VCPR), the FDACS Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, and the Farm Service Agency can all prove useful in mitigating these losses.

Bridget Stice

The Polk County Livestock Extension Program is designed to provide educational programs and assistance for livestock producers, and promote agricultural awareness and its importance to our food system and economy. This agent is responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating these livestock Extension programs in Polk County. The agent delivers educational programs in livestock production and management, forages and pastures, plant science, farm management, and agricultural awareness. Contact Bridget Stice via email at bccarlis@ufl.edu or (863) 519-1048

The Fiercest Protection in Your Territory

Howler® fungicide unleashes multiple modes of action for proven, long-lasting, broad-spectrum crop protection against soilborne and foliar diseases. With Howler fungicide on guard, you get the advantages of having no residue, zero PHI, minimal REI, and exceptional tank mix flexibility – available through your Triangle retailer

Protect your entire pack with the power of the plant microbiome at agbiome.com/howler

AgBiome Rep:

David Gilliam: (863) 956-7479, dgilliam@agbiome.com

Triangle Reps:

Dwayne Kent: (813) 730-3093, cdkent@trianglecc.com

Brian Sheperd: (813) 523-5952, bdshepherd@trianglecc.com

METAL ROOFING

Thousands of 8ft. & 10ft. sheets. In Stock. Prices from $6 and up. Custom lengths available. 813-752-7088 ask for Ferris.

ALUMINUM

We have all your aluminum needs! Screen Room, carports & awnings. Call Blake (813) 752-3378

WINDOW SCREENS

We make window screens of all sizes available in different frame colors. Call Ted(813) 752-3378

CABINETS

All wood kitchen cabinets. All wood vanities. Custom made to your size. Call Chris 813-752-3378

VINYL SIDING

Many colors and styles to choose from. Ask for Ted. 813-752-3378

MOBILE HOME SUPPLIES

Everything you need under ONE roof! Call Blake 813-752-3378

NEW, USED & ABUSED.

CALL FOR A WINDOW QUOTE.

We are a MI Windows dealer. Our windows are energy star, lifetime warranty. Call Broke & Poor 813-752-3378

BUILDING SUPPLIES FARM EQUIPMENT

I4 POWER EQUIPMENT

Trade-Ins Welcomed, Service Department Available. Exit 22 • S. Frontage Rd. Plant City 813-752-4459

JOHN DEERE

Looking for your new tractor?

Come see us at Everglades Farm Equipment. evergladesfarmequipment.com 2805 SR 60 West, Plant City 813-737-1660

OVERSTOCK SPECIAL

Barn doors starting at $80.00 Call Ted 813-752-3378

2016 MAHINDRA 1526

Tractor with loader 4x4 HST transmission, turf tires. 1585 hours. $12,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

10’ BUSHHOG 3210

Like NEW! Heavy duty barn kept. $8,000 Call Bobby 863-424-9221

1989 JOHN DEERE

770 2 wd tractor with 5' mid mount mower. $3,750 ask for Alvie. 813-759-8722

NEW 2023 BAD BOY BANDIT

750 UTILITY VEHICLE

4x4, liquid cooled EFI engine, power steering, dump bed, roof, 2-piece windshield, winch, mirrors, 2-year limited warranty. $14,975.00. Financing available WAC. Call 813-759-8722

Ask for Alvie.

IH FARMALL 140 HI-CROP

With front and rear cultivators, fertilize attachment, new tires. $7500.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

FOR SALE

2016 THOR VEGAS MOTORHOME

26' Class A. Only 19,689 miles. Call Roger 813-752-9434

OLD ANTIQUE BLUE STOVE

Bread warmer, chrome trim. You have got to see it to believe it! Call Ted for more details. 813-752-3378

DOORS & WINDOWS SPECIAL ORDER

No upcharge. House & Mobile Home. Many standard sizes in stock. Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378

KITCHEN CABINETS & VANITIES

Get quality all wood cabinets for less than the BIG Box STORES! Call Today! Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378

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MECHANIC NEEDED

Agricultural equipment. Pay with benefits based on experience. Call David 863-537-1345 or Alvie 813-759-8722

PARTS COUNTER HELP

Wanted for parts look up and sales. Experience in the agriculture equipment service. Speak with Alvie. 813-759-8722

LAWN EQUIPMENT/ SUPPLIES

USED HUSQVARNA

Lawn tractor with 48" deck. Bagging system included. In good condition.

$995.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

USED ZERO TURN

Zero turn mowers, several to choose from. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

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Wood lures, Bamboo fly rods, Bagley lures. Any old fishing collectible stuff. Call 863-559-8520

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FREE Wooden Shipping Pallets All sizes! Call Alvie 813-759-8722

24 HOUR SERVICE

Coggins Plumbing licensed • bonded • Insured. www.cogginsplumbing.com 813-643-7173

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ALAN’S AIR CONDITIONING

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SHOWER STALLS - FIBERGLASS

Scratch and dent shower stalls - fiberglass perfect for hunting camps. $150 you pick! Call us! 813-752-3378

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Polk County Cattle Women

Do you remember, The 21st night of September? I’m glad that I now have that song stuck in your head! Polk County CattleWomen have been spending that last month gearing up for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association Fall Quarterly Steak Out Dinner. We had quite a few ladies provide desserts for the dinner, and it turned out wonderfully. Thank you to everyone who helped out with this dinner, and a HUGE thank you to Mrs. Becky Finley for allowing us to play a part in this event.

We are starting to have more events coming up, such as the Polk County Cattlemen’s Association Membership dinner and the next Florida CattleWomen’s Ranch Tour at the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation.

Please make sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @polk_county_ cattlewomen. If you have any questions or are interested in becoming a member, please contact me at blairbuchanon@ gmail.com or come to our next meeting on October 3, 2023, at 6:30 in the Valencia Room at the Bartow Extension Office.

Blair Buchanon

Polk County Cattlewomen President

blairbuchanon@gmail.com