Cover More Ground with CKP
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President – Dr. Lujean Waters 8750 Shreck Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 537-1495 Lujean.waters@gmail.com
Vice President – Ken Sherrouse 13475 Moore Rd Lakeland, FL 33809-9755 (863) 698-1834 kensherrouse@yahoo.com
Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch PO Box 849 Highland City, FL 33846-0849 (863) 425-112 Justin.bunch@nutrien.com
State Director – Orrin Webb PO Box 202 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 634-6029 owebb@wandwsupply.com
Donald Conroy 3882 Wolfolk Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 412-0790
Stuart Fitzgerald PO Box 1437 Lake Wales, FL 33859 (863) 206-5021 stuartcattlellc@yahoo.com
Kevin Fussell 5125 Fussell Rd Polk City, FL 33868 (863) 412-5876 drfussellranch@gmail.com
Wes Fussell 5010 Barush Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 838-1594 g.wesfussell@gmail.com
Det. Jay Scarborough 1575 Mountt Pisgah Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 860-7731 Jayscarborough5581@outlook. com
Scott Shoupe 6130 Allen Lane Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 581-7593 Scott_shoupe@hotmail.com
James Stice PO Box 460 Highland City, FL 33846 (813) 714-2333 jstice@verizon.net
Dave Tomkow 3305 US Highway 92 E Lakeland, FL 33801-9623 (863) 665-5088 dave@cattlemens1.com
Alternate Standing Committee Chairs: Membership Events- Scott Shoupe
Trade Show- Bridget Stice
Rodeo- Fred Waters PO Box 463 Alturas, FL 33820-0463 (863) 559-7808
Website – Blair Buchanon
Cattlewomen – President, Blair Buchanon 8444 Tom Costine Rd Lakeland, FL 33809 (863) 581-2711 Buckld96@gmail.com
Extension – Bridget Stice PO Box 9005, Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 519-1048 bccarlis@ufl.edu
Sheriff’s Dept. – Lt. Paul Wright 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 557-1741 pw5281@polksheriff.org
Sgt. Tim Sanders 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 656-6119 brusso@polksheriff.org
Warner University –
Abby Crawford 13895 Highway 27 Lake Wales, FL 33859 (863) 638-7248 Abby.crawford@warner.edu
Cover Photos Courtesy of Melissa Nichols
Letter from the Editor
Boy, have we had some rain. I am, “I now have a rain gauge in my yard” years old and while sometimes I get less than people on the other side of town, I often get more. Just last night I had almost 3 inches of rain in about an hour. My house is high and dry and there is typically no standing water. But I have had the occasional small lake stick around for a bit in recent days. I really feel for those of you who live in or have livestock in lower lands that flood, as well as the strawberry growers trying to get land prepared for the next crop of deliciousness.
And, while we’ve had a crazy amount of rain, there are still watering restrictions in place. Why? Because Florida doesn’t seem to do anything in moderation. It’s flooding or bone dry. So, even though we are up to our eyeballs in water at the moment, the dry season is just around the corner.
We hope you check out our advertisers in each issue. They allow us to continue covering what is growing, as we have for the past 20 years. Let them know you saw their ad in In The Field magazine. Also, 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.
Until Next Month
Sarah Holt
STAFF
Publisher/Photography
Karen Berry
Senior Managing Editor/
Associate Publisher
Sarah Holt
Sales
Karen Berry
Sarah Holt
De De Floyd
Melissa Nichols
Creative Director/Illustrator
Juan Alvarez
Photography
Karen Berry
Melissa Nichols
Images By Blair
Staff Writers
Al Berry
Sandy Kaster
James Frankowiak
Sean Green
Autum Miller
Contributing
Writers
Wade Osborne
John Dicks
Social Media
Victoria Saunders
In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Polk County businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of the Polk County Catllemen’s Association.
Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909
Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In the Field magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc.
Published by Berry Publications, Inc.
Sarah Holt
rd Annual 3
September 28, 2024
Live Music. Biergarten. Weingarten. Lebensmittelgarten.
Main Street Exhibitors. Stein Axe Costume Contest. Rides, Games, More 3pm - 10pm
Main Street Kids Zone. Exhibitors. Stein Holding Competition. Axe Throwing. Costume Contest. Rides, Games, and More
Fall is HERE! As we celebrate the increased rainfall seen over the late summer months, we reap the Lord’s blessings with belly deep grass and fat momma cows. As we wind down shipping season and move into palpation season; it is imperative to continue to monitor Body Condition Scores to ensure healthy fetal development and parturition.
As we transition to fall and some much needed reprieve from the scorching temperatures, keep those mineral boxes full. Additionally, be sure to utilize a Flukicide dewormer during fall workings to combat liver flukes from snail ingestion after heavy rainfall from the late summer months.
This month’s events include the Florida Cattlemens Fall Quarterly Meeting, September 12-13 in Melbourne, Florida. Also check out the Wildlife Management on Working Rangelands Field Day on September 24 at E.R. Jahna Ranch in Polk City, Pre-Registration is required through the UF/IFAS Extension website.
Dr. LuJean Waters
Polk County Cattlemens President Heartland Large Animal Services
FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD
WHAT IS A NATIVAR?
Tia Silvasy, Residential Horticulture Agent, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County
A nativar is a cultivated variety of a native plant. Nativars have the same drought-tolerance and local adaptations as straight natives but may also have improved form or other traits desirable for urban landscapes.
For example, dwarf firebush (Hamelia patens ‘Compacta’) provides a tighter compact form as compared to the native firebush. A drawback of using natives is that they may not provide as much food for wildlife. Still, nativars may be a better option than non-native Florida-Friendly plants in the landscape because of their low-maintenance requirements and ecological benefits.
Nativars are good to supplement native and Florida-Friendly plants in the landscape because they are adapted to the local soil and climatic conditions with added benefit of longer flowering time, disease resistance, and aesthetically pleasing form. You can purchase nativars at Florida native plant nurseries www.plantrealflorida.org.
Let’s review some definitions of how we determine a plant’s status.
A native plant is a plant that has been documented to be in a region without human intervention. The term cultivar refers to plants that are naturally mutated and selected by humans or intentionally bred for specific traits. A nativar is a cultivar of a native plant, so a native plant that has been selected from nature for certain plant traits or bred to have improved traits. To determine plant status, check serval resources including the UF/IFAS Florida-Friendly Landscaping Plant Guide, the Florida Native Plant Society website, the Florida Wildflower Foundation website, and Atlas of Florida Plants.
There are mostly positive impacts of selecting nativars, but also a few concerns. Nativars often have traits that are desirable in urban landscapes, such as a compact form, heattolerance, seed or flower modifications.
Like straight native plants, they are adapted to local environments and often can thrive with minimal inputs of water, fertilizer, and pesticides. While some natives are bred to be more floriferous or heavy fruiting, critics of nativars argue that they do not provide the same benefits to wildlife and pollinators.
For example, compact cultivars may have shorter flower tubes and less nectar for pollinators. Others are bred to be a male cultivar or sterile female and produce no fruit. For example, the dwarf yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria ‘Schillings’) has a slow growing compact form ideal for urban landscapes but produces no berries for wildlife. More research is needed to examine the benefits and drawbacks of using nativars in the landscape.
Examples of nativars commonly planted in Central Florida:
• Hamelia patens ‘Compacta’
• Ilex vomitoria ‘Pendula’
• Ilex vomitoria ‘Schillings’
• Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’
• Viburnum obovatum ‘Mrs. Schillers Delight’
If you have any horticultural questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 813-744-5519. Contact: hillsmg@mail.ufl.edu
THOUGHTS FROM THE HEIFER PEN
I don’t know if it was this way for past generations, but my generation loves to proclaim their identity and sense of humor by displaying stickers on computers, laptops, and other hard surfaces. A lot of times these are stickers from road trip destinations to commemorate where we have been in our life. Sometimes they have funny sayings like “But did you die?” (my personal favorite) or sometimes they have a cute bear, like the one that my sister brought me from Colorado. My youngest sister is very diligent about documenting her travels on her water bottle and I think that she has filled up a few. I was thinking the other day though, that just as people sum up their travels with their stickers, I could probably sum up my life as the rancher’s daughter in stickers.
My life from 2 to 4 years old could be summed up as a princess with fairy wings but wearing pink cowgirl boots and with a Blue Heeler. Like most little girls that age, I loved princesses, pink and purple, and to be with my dad. One of my earliest memories of working with my dad was when we were building our cow pens. We, well, my dad, was working on the alley and the hopper, which to me was the perfect place to pretend to be a throne room. I had a pillared colonnade leading into the throne room (the hopper) and a loyal subject (my dad’s Blue Heeler, Duke) who only came to me after my dad had to tell him himself to “go see the princess.” At that time the lines were a little blurry about whether Duke could talk or not.
The ages of 5 -8 would be a sticker of a little girl wearing a Prairie Dress with jeans and boots on underneath, and a baseball cap with the words. “You have to wear pants.” During this age I had moved on from my princess obsession and into my Little House on the Prairie era, which meant I had a better argument to wear dresses because Laura did all of her chores and farm work in a dress. I wasn’t sure why my dad insisted on me wearing pants when I was working with him. (From an adult point of view, I know now that if my skirts were always getting caught in my bike chain, they would have gotten caught in something worse while working with my dad.)
By Marisol Tarango
As I got older and learned to both read and ride my horse independently, my life from 9-16 would be a sticker of a cowboy-girl on her horse reading a book glancing guiltily up from underneath her hat with the words, “Have you done your schoolwork today?” I never was one for schoolwork, but during this time of my life I didn’t see how it was that necessary since all I planned to do as an adult was ride horses and read books anyway. If I wanted to learn about something I would just check out a book from the library and I failed to see how chemistry and algebra came into the equation of my life. Nevertheless, my mother persevered through my tears and complaints, and I became an educated cowboy-girl in things well beyond history and English literature.
Since my mom ensured that I was educated, I thought I might as well get some more and most of my late teens and early twenties was spent figuring out how to fit into the academic and office setting. Ages 17 to 25 would be a very smartly dressed young lady holding a laptop, but with boots and spurs on. Sometimes it feels like I have an alter ego because office Marisol is different than cowboy-girl Marisol. Office Marisol can definitely help you convert that document into a pdf and has a rather decent typing rate (at least she thinks so). Cowboy-girl Marisol’s only use for technology is to play her cowboy music and she’s rather proud that she can tell a horse is going lame before most people notice it. Sometimes the lines do cross when she is asked to do some typing for the family business or when she pulls out her pocket knife at work because scissors aren’t gonna cut it for some jobs.
Stickers might be a silly way to sum up the mile markers of your life. But everyone does it in some way. Some people do it by the cars they drove or the horses they rode. Some might do it by their favorite jackets or dresses that they had. I tend to do it by the books I was reading at the time. But it’s good to look back at where you came from.
NEWS BRIEFS
Compiled by Jim Frankowiak
EPA issues emergency order against DCPA pesticide use
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an emergency order suspending all use of dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA), a pesticide also known as Dacthal. Under the order, DCPA may not be sold, distributed or used in any manner. Consumers with current stocks of the product cannot use it.
DCPA exposure in pregnant women can cause thyroid level changes in their unborn babies, according to the EPA. These changes are linked to low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ and impaired motor skills later in life.
Water Restrictions
Hillsborough County residents are reminded that they are under a Phase 1 Water Shortage Order issued by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) because of prolonged drought conditions. Under the order, residents can only water their lawns one day a week and this restriction applies to all water users in the county.
Hillsborough County Fair Announces Events; Advance Ticket Sales
The 2024 Hillsborough County Fair is set for October 31 – November 11 and advance sale tickets are now available. This year’s Fair includes a variety of events, including: National All Region Rodeo Finals, County Fair Truck and Tractor Pull, Demo Derby and Midget Warrior Wrestling – all in addition to the Fair’s traditional exhibits and competitions.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com.
UF Ranked #6 among U.S. Ag Science Colleges
The University of Florida, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (UF/CALS) is ranked 6th nationally among higher education institutions. This is according to Niche, a Pittsburghbased data science company that serves as a review and search platform for education, that recently released its updated statistics.
Governor Reappoints Michelle Williamson to SWFWMD Governing Board
Governor Ron DeSantis has reappointed Michelle Williamson to the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board. Williamson represents Hillsborough County.
Williamson, of Dover, was appointed to the Governing Board in December 2020. She previously served on the Board from August 2016 to August 2020. Williamson is the manager of G & F Farms. She received her associate degree from Hillsborough Community College. Williamson is reappointed to a four-year term ending March 1, 2028. Williamson serves as chair of the Governing Board. The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Governing Board members are unpaid, citizen volunteers who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate. The Governing Board sets policy for the District, whose mission is to manage the water and related resources of west central Florida to meet the needs of current and future water users while protecting the environment.
It’s a Grass Flats Bonanza!
It’s been a long hot summer, but relief is just around the corner. The days are getting shorter and soon the water temperatures will be dropping back into the 70’s. Once the water cools, the redfish and snook fishing will heat up.
Mid-to-late September, and especially October, ushers in some of the best redfish action Tampa Bay has to offer. The redfish spawning season really amps up mid-to-late fall. I’ve had clients catch 40” redfish numerous times during October. As a matter of fact, my best redfish outing ever happened during the month of October. In one particular instance, during a five-hour charter, three clients managed to land 96 redfish. You can read about redfish in more detail on my websites about redfish page.
a bait out to increase your chances at a hookup. Continuous chumming helps keep the bite going allowing you to catch numerous snook before moving on to the next spot.
As for seatrout, there’s no shortage in Tampa Bay. They seem to be just about everywhere there’s bait. Seatrout fishing is best on a moving tide, so check a tide chart in your fishing location and plan accordingly. Most of the time when fishing grass flats it’s best to use a bobber to keep your bait out of the grass where the fish can see it. Once a fish takes the bobber under, wait two to three seconds before setting the hook.
There are a couple of methods for targeting seatrout. You can drift the flats and let the wind and tide take you along, or you can anchor your boat. If you’re using artificial lures, it’s obviously best to drift. If you’re using live bait, I’ve found it’s best to anchor and fish an area before moving slightly down the flat. While anchored I chum with live bait which floats down tide and draws fish to the boat. Doing so not only attracts seatrout, but on some grass flats ladyfish, jack crevalle, Spanish mackerel and the occasional shark and cobia.
When pursuing redfish, I always keep an eye out for mullet. The Tampa Bay mullet run is at its peak right now and tapers off by December, so mullet are everywhere. This in conjunction with the annual redfish spawn which makes for a winning combination. Redfish like to travel with mullet, and here’s why. Mullet travel in schools and feed on seagrasses, micro crustaceans, and microalgae. As they forage across the grass flats, they flush out baitfish and crustaceans from their hiding places. Redfish trail along so they can scoop up what the mullet don’t eat.
These shorter days and lower water temperatures make for excellent snook fishing and will remain so until the season closure on December 1. I can also honestly say, I have never seen as much bait in Tampa Bay as there is right now. Bait is literally on every grass flat. This has snook in a feeding frenzy.
Snook can be found adjacent to most mangrove points and mangroves that line deep water channels. As always, do some live bait chumming before casting
The Spanish mackerel fishing is still going strong, and they are big, some reaching four to five pounds. You can find them feeding around the bay area bridges, over submerged rock piles, spoil islands adjacent to channels, artificial reefs and on some of the bays deep-water grass flats.
Typically, there are about two more solid months of excellent fishing on the grass flats throughout Tampa Bay until the cool fronts start. Once three or four cold fronts move through the area, the water temperature drops below 70 degrees and the bait leaves the flats. When this hap-
26-Year Veteran Fishing Guide, Captain Wade Osborne.
Capt. Wade Osborne
pens it’s a whole different ball game. That’s a ways off, until then enjoy!
In closing: I usually don’t mix politics and fishing, but this November amendment 2, the right to fish and hunt, is on the ballot. Even though it’s already a Florida statute, statutes can be changed or eliminated by the legislature without any vote from “We the People.” Voting yes on amendment 2, makes the right to fish and hunt a Florida constitutional right which is stronger than a statute. However, to be enacted the amendment has to be approved by greater than 60% of the electorate.
Don’t let anti-fishing and anti-hunting organizations potentially stand in your way of enjoying the great outdoors in the future, vote yes on amendment 2.
Afishionado, “Adventures in Fishing.”
Tampa Bay fishing guide Wade Osborne of “Afishionado Guide Services” has been plying the waters of Tampa Bay as a professional full-time captain, since 1997. Osborne has been featured on numerous TV and radio shows and writes for multiple publications. Osborne offers inshore fishing charters on light tackle spin, fly or plug. He also offers eco-tours with an emphasis on photography. For more info visit Afishionado.com or find Afishionado Guide Services on Facebook and Instagram. Email: wade@afishionado.com Call/Text 813-286-3474
FLORIDA GRASSHOPPER SPARROW
By Libby Hopkins
The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow, or the Ammodramus Savannarum Floridanus as it’s known by its scientific name, is an endangered subspecies of grasshopper sparrow native to the dry prairies of South-Central Florida.
One of four subspecies of Grasshopper Sparrows in North America, the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow does not migrate, living here year-round (endemic). Perhaps the most endangered bird in the continental U.S., few people have seen or even heard it.
The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow is a small sparrow with a short tail and rounded head, averaging 13 cm in total length when fully grown. Like most grasshopper sparrows, their wings are brown, white, and grey in color, with patches of yellow on the alula and supercilium.
Adult sparrows have white undersides with a buff throat and breast, while juveniles have streaked breasts. The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow has a longer bill and tarsi than other subspecies and lacks reddish streaks on its nape.
The song of the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow sounds much like that of a grasshopper, from which it gets its name. Males only sing a few hours a day during the breeding season, and they often perch on twigs or dead palmetto leaves to sing when available. Singing most frequently occurs during the early morning and early evening hours, around sunrise and sunset.
Though some migratory grasshopper sparrows are distributed throughout parts of both North and South America, the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow is a non-migratory species and is thus limited in distribution to the prairie region of South-Central Florida. Counties in Florida where this species has been sighted include Glades, Highlands, Polk, Okeechobee and Osceola counties.
Habitat requirements for the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow are quite spe-
cific. Recommended habitat consists of large tracts of poorly drained grasslands with a frequent history of fire and a limited number of trees (less than one tree per acre). Common plant species found in this habitat include bluestem and wiregrass, with occasional saw palmettos as well. As grasshopper sparrows are largely a grounddwelling species, some bare ground is necessary as well to provide areas for movement and foraging purposes.
Florida Grasshopper Sparrows are the only subspecies of grasshopper sparrow known to breed in the state of Florida. They are known to nest between April and August on the ground at the base of a small shrub or clump of grass.
Their nests are often constructed of available plant matter nearby, which mainly consists of the leaves of bluestem and wiregrass. Females are known to lay between three and five eggs and the young fledge about 10 days after hatching. Nest success rates are often quite low, with one study observing success rates of between 1033 percent at multiple sites. Only three locations in Florida are now known to definitively support wild populations of the sparrow, and populations are declining in all three.
Florida Grasshopper Sparrows are omnivores, with most of their diet consisting of insects, such as grasshoppers, crickets, beetles and moths. Most of the vegetation in the sparrow’s diet is made up of sedge seeds and star grass seeds. Florida Grasshopper Sparrows forage near the ground, and thus, frequent fires are essential to maintain areas of bare ground for foraging.
Until large scale surveys were undertaken in the 1980s to determine the abundance and distribution of the subspecies, the number of Florida Grasshopper Sparrows present in the wild was largely unknown. Following these surveys, it was determined by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow be listed on the Endangered Species List. Subse-
quent surveys performed in the 1990s estimated fewer than 500 adult Florida grasshopper sparrows and recent work estimates that, under present habitat conditions, there is a 22 percent chance of extinction of the species within the next 50 years. The survival of the subspecies is highly dependent upon habitat availability, with another model correlating a loss of habitat to a 66 percent chance of extinction. Based on population trends, the species was predicted to possibly become extinct in the wild as soon as 2018–2019. However, recent conservation efforts prevented this from occurring.
The good news is that in 2014, a captive breeding program was initiated from scratch. No one had ever bred Florida Grasshopper Sparrows. After many hurdles and lessons learned, by 2019, breeding techniques had become so successful that the Florida Grasshopper Sparrow team released more than 100 sparrows into Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area. About 50 more were released in the spring of 2020 and to everyone’s joy, not only did many of the released birds survive but they also successfully nested in 2020, adding to the wild population.
The Florida Grasshopper Sparrow Working Group is composed of managers of properties the sparrows occupy, researchers, federal and state wildlife agencies, and Audubon. The group’s short-term emphasis: manage the sparrows’ habitat to the best standard possible. The essential longer-term need is to maintain an intensive research effort examining threats like disease, genetics and fire ants, as well as nest success and population change. This effort is being funded principally by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, FWC and others are funding several captive breeding efforts, and other partners, including Audubon, are contributing funds and manpower to cooperative efforts.
NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH PURSUING AG CAREERS
By Jim Frankowia
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC),(Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association (FNGLA), Florida Farm Bureau Federation (FFBF) and Agriculture Education Services & Technology, Inc. (AEST) have entered into an agreement through which ABAC will now award three semester hours of credit for any AEST Specialist level certification or any FNGLA certifications listed below. This is a major milestone in providing another great opportunity for young people pursuing agricultural careers.
AEST Certifications:
• Agricultural Biotechnology Specialist
• Agricultural Communications Specialist
• Agricultural Mechanics Specialist
• Agritechnology Specialist
• Animal Science Specialist
• Forestry Specialist
• Natural Resources Specialist
• UAS in Agriculture Specialist
• FNGLA Certifications:
• Certified Horticulture Professional-FCHP
• Certified Landscape Installation-FCLT
• Certified Landscape Maintenance-FCLMT
• Certified Landscape Irrigation-FCLIST
• Certified Pest Management-FCPMT
For more information, visit: https//aest.ag.
Cuddly Farm
Ray and Sarah Bell are the owners of Bell Family Farm and Apiary in Polk City. Sarah was raised in a small coastal community in Maine and lived most of her adult life in Boston. Ray was raised in Long Island, NY and has lived all over the world, including the Dominican Republic and France. Neither of them has lived on farms but they do have a deep, abiding love for animals. “We purchased the Polk City property, now known as Bell Family Farm, in June 2020 and opened the petting farm a year later in 2021,” Sarah Bell said. “We had no plans to start a petting farm until Ray’s grandfather gifted us two miniature Zebu Bulls as a ‘housewarming gift.’ Our friends and family would visit but instead of hanging inside the home with us, they would go outside to play with the baby bulls.”
One day Sarah got a little annoyed, so she went outside and half-chastised their guests, saying “I’m not a petting farm, I’m going to start charging you people.” Ray, always up for a challenge, said it was a brilliant idea and six weeks later, they were opened. “We started with two goats, three cows, two pigs, four chickens and four ducks,” Bell said. “Three years later, we have grown to 19 goats, seven cattle, three pigs and over 25 chickens. We are open year-round, Wednesdays through Sundays.”
By Libby Hopkins
What makes them different from other petting farms is that they want each person to walk through the gates and feel like family. “Animals bring out such joy in people and we feel honored and humbled to share them with the public,” Bell said. “I personally love it when someone comes to the farm feeling a little stressed and unhappy and leaves with a huge, genuine smile on their face. We consider our animals family members and love them all so much. Their happiness and health are paramount to us.”
There are many health benefits to petting or cuddling animals. The human-animal bond is a remarkable and intricate relationship that extends far beyond the surface. Cuddling with animals isn’t just a source of immediate joy; it’s a dynamic interaction that holds a myriad of physical, emotional and psychological benefits. Scientific studies have highlighted the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection, during moments of cuddling.
This not only strengthens the bond between humans and animals but also promotes feelings of happiness and relaxation. Moreover, the rhythmic and gentle touch involved in cuddling has been shown to lower heart rate and blood pressure, contributing to overall cardiovascular health. Psychologically, the
act of cuddling nurtures empathy, reduces stress and anxiety and even aids in combating feelings of loneliness.
Diving deeper into the science of cuddling reveals a fascinating array of health and psychological benefits. The physical touch between humans and animals stimulates the production of endorphins and serotonin, often referred to as “feelgood” neurotransmitters. These compounds not only elevate mood but also strengthen the immune system, making individuals more resilient to illnesses.
The psychological benefits are equally noteworthy. Cuddling animals can lead to reduced symptoms of depression, increased self-esteem and enhanced emotional stability. Additionally, the tactile sensation of cuddling triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing a state of relaxation that counters the effects of chronic stress. (https://animalsresearch.com/cuddling-animals).
“Our Cow Cuddles experience was launched this past January with astounding success,” Bell said. “Guests get to spend time with one of our friendly, gentle young female cows, Aurora. She loves being petted, brushed, hugged and just generally doted upon. She’s calm and relaxed and will often lie down on the ground for you. Her peaceful demeanor is infectious, and people relax and unwind from today’s hectic world when they are with her. Aurora is therapy.”
They have increased the number of sessions available every week because Aurora enjoys it just as much as the guests. “We also offer the Ultimate Cow and Farm Tour, where guests visit inside the pasture with our two friendly large Brangus steer and spend time with our mommy Zebu, Caroline and her baby, Esme,” Bell said.
The couple love running their farm. “We especially love two things about working our farm,” Bell said. “First, we love animals. They are genuinely a part of our family. They have their own unique personalities, and they give back the love we give them tenfold. We also love the people who come to our farm and support our endeavor. We have met people very literally from all over the world and from our own backyard. Their joy when they love on our animals fills our days with a very special kind of happiness. We often talk in the evening about the families and groups that have visited, and recount to each other all the meaningful moments. It’s truly humbling to be able to show people a wonderful time.”
If you’d like to learn more about Bell Family Farm and Apiary, you can visit their website at www.bellsminizebu.com or call 863-984-0488.
Pumpkin Decorating
By Maggie Fussell
Fall is almost here. Sunday, September 22 is the first day of fall. Fall in Florida is not sweater weather or changing leaves, but we can still celebrate the season.
Pumpkins are a symbol of fall. The bright orange fruit can be tall or short, skinny or stocky, smooth or bumpy. Every pumpkin is different. Pumpkin shows up in drinks, desserts, and decor. Decorating pumpkins is a tradition for many. Growing up, my brother and I would pick our own pumpkins. We cleaned them under the barn and planned what our pumpkin would look like that year. As kids we wanted simple jack o lanterns, and we would watch our parents carefully carve a face into the pumpkin. As we got older, we wanted more intricate carving. We realized very quickly that we did not have patience for the details and went back to the triangle eyes and square mouth.
Growing up our idea of decorating pumpkins was a pumpkin on the concrete under the barn with seeds all around us as we were elbow deep in pumpkin brains. Once we cleaned out the pumpkin, we grabbed a kitchen knife and went to work cutting out shapes. Over the years I have noticed that some are very creative with their pumpkins. The cute jack-o-lantern is still my favorite, but it is interesting to learn of other ways to decorate a pumpkin.
Painting, thumbtacks, and melted crayons are some ways to make unique pumpkins without carving. When
painting a pumpkin, there are a few steps to take to make sure it comes out right. Start with cleaning dirt off the pumpkin. Next apply a base sealer coat, such as the Mod Podge acrylic sealer. It can be applied with a cheap foam paint brush or bought as a spray and sprayed on the pumpkin. After the sealer dries, use acrylic paint to paint the pumpkin. When the paint dries see if it needs another coat. Once the pumpkin is painted, apply a coat of sealer to lock in the paint. The pumpkin can be painted one half at a time to ensure the whole pumpkin is covered. It is a long process, but a way to create amazing pumpkins. Decorative thumb tacks are a cleaner way to decorate and add texture to a pumpkin. Putting thumbtacks in a pumpkin to make the shape of a ghost or bat does seem time consuming but would be impressive. Another messy way to decorate a pumpkin is melted crayons. Take the paper off the crayons and glue them to the top of the pumpkin in a circle around the stem. Make sure the pumpkin is on garbage bags or cardboard because this will be a mess. Using a hair dryer, start on low heat and melt the crayons. Use the hair dryer to direct the flow of the melted crayon.
Decorating pumpkins is a fun mess. Be prepared to clean and be prepared to laugh at the chaos that comes with carving, painting, and melting crayons. To those who are decorating pumpkins this year I hope it is enjoyable and amusing. Happy Fall Ya’ll!
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.
Some things I don’t understand
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”?
Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the September 2019 issue
“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?”
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 brotherin-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 talking 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.”
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.
GLEANING PARTNERS NEEDED!
By Jim Frankowiak
The impact of the Covid pandemic was widespread; deeply affecting some, while others were barely touched. In the case of the Patterson family, husband and father Billy (BJ) suffered from three strokes, and “it is only by the Grace of God is he still with us and able to continue to work,” said his spouse, Christa. BJ and Christa are proud parents of Macie and Walker.
“He realized tomorrow is not promised and he needed to be more accessible to his family,” she added. “So, we stepped out on faith and opened Send It Fabrication, a company that enables us to handle any commercial or residential steel work such as handrails, mower decks, and equipment repair, to small structural construction. We can also install metal buildings and barns.”
The path leading to the opening of Patterson’s company is noted in their advertising via bible verse 1Peter 5:10, which states: “May the God of all Grace, who called us to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, Perfect, Establish, Strengthen and Settle you.”
“Through the trial and suffering we went through with BJ’s health we leaned on our faith to get through it all,” said Christa. “Out of the struggle came the strength to open Send It Fabrication. All the Glory goes to God.”
“The joy of owning our own business is, we can work on anything we can think we can do,” said Christa. “If someone has an idea for a livestock trailer or hunting stand, we can help them bring it to life. Give us your ideas and we will design and build it in-house.” Send It Fabrication is based in Mulberry and serves Central Florida. “We are able to ship any steel to our customers and install, as well as onsite repairs for equipment and structures,” said BJ, who brings more than 30 years of experience in the steel industry to the Patterson’s new company. “I started work with my father, Billy Patterson, and Jay Strickland at B & J Steel when I was 16,” said BJ. “I became a foreman/lead 10 years later, installing metal buildings throughout Central Florida. In 2012, I began my career in the structural steel industry and became a Steel Plant Superintendent, in charge of building structures such as bridges, hospitals, schools, hotels, stadiums and theme parks.”
“It is a running joke in our family that when we drive by something we know he built, we have to acknowledge it, every time,” said Christa. “Honestly, it is more than a joke; it’s a sense of pride to know that he had a part in so many projects that are an important part of so many people’s lives.”
“We are so excited to be able to serve and give back to our community,” said the Patterson’s. “We are members at Welcome Baptist Church and serve in the youth program. As a family, we enjoy time out on the water fishing and in the woods hunting. We spend most of our weekends at the softball and football fields, cheering on our kids as they make memories. They are also involved in both FFA and 4-H where they show their animals at local fairs. We enjoy spending our time together as a family during these important times of our children’s lives,” they said.
If you have an idea for a project, or need help with a structure or repair, contact Send It Fabrication by calling 813763-5722. You can also find out more by visiting Facebook under Send It Fabrication.
Collaborative project funded by Southern Extension Risk Management Education Center
Join us for an educational workshop this fall to learn more about how to evaluate & mitigate forage risk on your operation! Workshop
Dates
• September 12 th
• September 26th
• October 1 st
• October 3rd
• October 24th
• October 29th
• November 7th
Find more information online about the upcoming workshops at prfinsurance.caes.uga.edu
Locations
• Perry, GA
• Live Oak, FL
• Statesboro, GA
• Atmore, AL
• Ona, FL
• Calhoun, GA
• Russellville, AL
Who, What, When, Where, Why, & How of PRF Insurance
Learn... ; who qualifies for ... ; why I should use ... ; how I can use ... ; where & when to enroll in ... ...PRF Insurance
Evaluate... ; what is at risk ... ; when it is at risk ... ; how to cover the risk ... ...on my operation
FLORIDA ENDIVE
By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
Ever wonder what those fancy leafy greens are in your salad? Spring mix or salad mix often contains a variety of greens and this is a great way to get a variety of vitamins and minerals. Endive (Cichorium endivia) is one of those leafy greens that adds taste and texture to a salad. Some types of endive have broad, wider leaves and are called escarole. Other types have more narrow, ruffled leaves and are known as frisee or curly endive. Belgian endive has very light green, broad leaves.
Escarole is milder and less bitter than its relatives frisee and radicchio. The inner leaves are sweeter and more tender than the outer leaves. The flavor also mellows more when cooked. Curly endive has a unique, mildly bitter and nutty, bright flavor. The leaves are serrated and twisted, a dark green color at the base that fades to a lighter cream color near the core. It adds visual appeal, crunch, and flavor to any dish. Technically, frisee is not actually a lettuce, but rather a member of the chicory family, along with endive.
Fresh Florida endive grows best in cooler weather and planting can start as early as September in some parts of the state.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Fresh Florida endive is very low in calories and high in nutrients, particularly folic acid, and vitamins A, C, and K. Its high fiber content helps reduce glucose and cholesterol levels, and aids in promoting satiety with very few calories. The darker colored leaves contain more nutrients than the lighter colored ones.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, a two-cup serving of fresh raw endive (100 g) contains 16 calories, 1.2 g protein, 0.4 g fat, 3 g carbohydrate, and 2.5 g of dietary fiber. One serving of endive also provides 193% of the Daily Recommended Value (%DV) for vitamin K, 72% for vitamin A, 36% for folate, 18% for manganese, 7% for vitamin C and potassium, and plenty of iron, zinc, copper, and many of the B vitamins. That’s an amazing amount of concentrated nutrients in only one serving and a great way to get filled up on fewer calories!
Antioxidants
Fresh Florida endive is full of antioxidants in many forms, including flavonoids and carotenoids. These compounds help provide anti-inflammatory effects, which is beneficial in warding off many major diseases. Other antioxidant nutrients high in this leafy green vegetable include vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and manganese, zinc, and selenium.
These antioxidants are particularly beneficial in protecting blood vessels from oxidative stress, which results in atherosclerosis and high blood pressure. Several of the carotenoids are especially important for good eye health, offering protection to the retina and macula.
Vitamin K
Fresh Florida endive is bursting with vitamin K. A two-cup serving of fresh frisee provides almost 200% of your daily needs for this vitamin! Vitamin K is an essential component for clotting of blood in the body. This vitamin also helps maintain bone health by transporting calcium and metabolizes the mineral into your skeleton. Several research studies have found that vitamin K boosts bone mineral density and reduces fracture rates in people with osteoporosis. As a result, the Institute of Medicine increased its daily recommendation of vitamin K. Endive, spinach, and other leafy greens are very rich sources of vitamin K, and contain other bone boosting nutrients such as calcium and magnesium.
Manganese
Fresh endive is considered a great source of manganese, an important mineral that plays a role in a variety of physiological functions throughout the body. Manganese is needed for glucose, protein, lipid, and cholesterol metabolism from the foods we consume, as well as for pancreatic function and development. The mineral is important in normal skeletal growth and development, prevention of sterility, and synthesis of thyroid hormone.
How to Select and Store
Choose endive that has crisp leaves with no signs of wilting or yellowing. The leaves and stems should look fresh and tender, and be dry to the touch. To store, pat leaves dry with a paper towel, place in a tightly wrapped plastic bag and squeeze out as much air as possible. Keep refrigerated for up to two weeks. Rinse well under running water immediately before use.
How to Enjoy
Fresh endive is most commonly eaten raw in salad either by itself or mixed with other greens. It can also be sautéed, braised, steamed or chopped and added to vegetable or bean soups. Its slightly bitter flavor goes well with fruit, citrus, bacon, and blue cheeses. When sautéed, its flavor becomes more mellow. Although endive is best known for its starring role in salad, there are many other ways to enjoy this nutritious leafy vegetable, including:
• Sautee lightly with olive oil and herbs
• Grill and top with salad dressing
• Toss into a stew or soup
• Use as a sandwich topper
• Use leaves as an edible garnish under fish or chicken
Enjoy fresh Florida endive today. Eat more of these leafy greens and reap all of the health benefits they offer in every delicious leaf.
SELECTED REFERENCES
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://www.whfoods.com
ADAPTIVE RODEO:
ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE WHEN GIVEN THE RIGHT OPPORTUNITY
By Melissa Nichols | Rodeo photos: Photos by Brystal Davis Photography
Something near and dear to the hearts of those of us at In The Field Magazine is helping and showcasing children and adults with “different abilities.” These individuals may be in a wheelchair due to a accident or medical condition, have a learning disability, be on the spectrum, or a medical condition that makes them special. We believe in the ability of anyone in agriculture with disabilities to excel and reach their potential with love, support and activities that are geared just for them. Dr. Temple Grandin has said, “There needs to be more emphasis on what a child can do instead of what he cannot.” This brings us to our cover story this month, The Hollie/Brewer Adaptive Rodeo is one unlike any other local rodeo. This rodeo allows children and adults with physical or intellectual disabilities to participate in and even receive trophies, ribbons, belt buckles and other prizes that they may never otherwise be able to achieve. “This rodeo is special to me because I meet kids like me and do fun rodeo things,” said rodeo contestant, Emily Stokes
The founders of this rodeo are Richie and Sarah Hollie and Brent and Jena Brewer. They both have children who were active in the rodeo and livestock show world. Their younger children with special needs were able to enjoy the pee wee division of livestock activities but quickly realized that they felt left out or unaccomplished when they moved up in age and competed against children who didn’t have a disability. Often you see these children and young adults give up because it’s unfair to them to compete with those with more physical or intellectual abilities. The first Hollie/Brewer Adaptive Rodeo took place last October with contestants from all around Polk County and central Florida coming to participate in the planned events. These events included whip popping, Beef Showmanship, Goat Tying, Mechanical Bull Riding, Steer Dummy Roping and Barrel Racing. Each contestant is paired up with a “Buddy” for the day to navigate through each event. Their buddy for the day is a volunteer who has experi-
ence in the event that the contestant has entered. The goal of the Hollie/Brewer Adaptive Rodeo is to let the contestants have a special day so that they can compete in many different activities they may have never tried before. The Motto of the rodeo is “Anything is possible when given the right opportunity.”
A touching testimony from a mom who drove nearly two hours to the rodeo. “Get ready for your first rodeo,” I said to my daughter Lena, 5, who was born with Cerebral palsy and Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, as we loaded up the truck from Ocala to head to the first Hollie/brewer adaptive rodeo. As a 6th generation cattle producer, this lifestyle is not new but the idea of a rodeo just for those with all types of disabilities was an entirely new concept for us. We weren’t sure what to expect that day but were met with open arms, friendly faces, helpful volunteers and many friends like us. Everyone was there for one goal, to celebrate and honor the kids with an opportunity to experience a day just for them. At the end of the day my heart shone with pride for every participant and every parent in the arena. I’m a happy crier and tears of joy could not stop flowing from my eyes to be involved in something so special, knowing my child was being honored for being exactly who she is! A beautiful anthem sung, opening ceremonies conducted, prayers over all cowboys and cowgirls volunteering their time, effort and livestock to all the events being tailored to meet each kid at their level of ability was something that will not soon be forgotten. It was in every sense of the word a real rodeo for real kids who participated. My daughter coming home with her own buckle was unforgettable. If there’s a will there’s a way and the Hollie Brewer Adaptive Rodeo accomplished that day. It truly was one of my best days ever, My Momma heart healed a lot that day” - Rodeo Mom Shelby Arber.
This rodeo is making lifelong memories for the contestants and allowing them to achieve competing in events
that would otherwise not be possible. One young contestant said, “I have always wanted to ride a horse but I can’t walk so that’s never been possible.” Last year a group of cowboys lifted this contestant on a horse and let them ride. Sarah and Jena will remember the sense of accomplishment that they felt at this moment having a child fulfill a lifelong dream. Last year everyone was a winner, everyone received a buckle so they left feeling accomplished. Each of the female contestants was given a Rodeo Princess Sash. This year they will be awarding a Top Cowgirl and Top Cowboy buckle as well. “The Hollie Brewer Rodeo has pioneered a day where kids of any ability get to compete in a rodeo. A day all about our special children! We could not have anticipated the excitement and fulfillment this day would bring to my children. It is a day of inclusion, kindness, lots of fun, where my kids also experience unity, pride in themselves, support each other and their accomplishments. Every (Dis)ability gets to compete and everyone is a winner. We cannot wait for this year’s event, and we are so proud to be a part of it.”
-Rodeo Mom, Marlana Green
The long-term goal is to be a resource for families with children and adults with disabilities to be involved like their typical peers. The hope is to expand the rodeo each year, adding more events. In the future they hope to be able to give scholarships to families to use for respite care or to be able to purchase equipment for the child/young adult to be able to participate in whatever it is they want to do. They feel there are not enough resources for families with special needs children and young adults in this county. With the help of others, our county fair is now offering adaptive classes, however once they graduate most of them are not able to con-
tinue doing the events they loved doing so now they have the Adaptive Rodeo to look forward to each year. “We have opened this up to 60 contestants this year. There is no entry fee. All funds to put on the rodeo are provided by sponsors and donations,” said Sarah. This takes a tremendous amount of community support as a typical rodeo and cow shows charge $20-40 entry fees plus exhibitor fees and grounds fees. Jena and Sarah are thankful to the community for their support. Sarah and Jena would like to thank Suncoast Credit Union, Polk County FFA Federation, Walmart Ft Pierce, Highpoint Church Children’s Ministry, Weikert Ford, M&D Overstreet Ranch, the Parker Family, Kelley Buick GMC, the Bullock Family, Heart for HEROES Inc, PHR staffing, the Booth Family, the Peterman Family, the Enriquez Family, the Bennett Family, the Hancock Family, South State Bank Lake Wales, Bob & Millie LLC, Tints MVP, Stein Family Cattle, Rowdy Cattle Company, Ward Cattle Company, Yates Cattle, the Cash Family, Coleen & Gene Grimes, Southwood Farms and Bobby Costine for their sponsorship of this event.
This year’s event will be on Saturday Oct 19, at the Polk County Ag Complex 1702 US 17 S Bartow (in the indoor arena.) If you would like to get involved, you may do that by reaching out to Sarah Hollie or Jena Brewer at rshollie4031@icloud.com or by calling 863-241-4698. There is still time to become a sponsor, vendor or livestock provider for the event. Their greatest hope is having an arena full of spectators this year cheering on the contestants. The rodeo organizers and the families involved is doing a great job to boost the morale of the participants and remind them that its ok to be different, but they are not less.
FDA Issues Revised Ag Water Rule
By Jim Frankowiak
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a final rule that revises pre-harvest agricultural water provisions in the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule. The rule replaces the previous microbial quality criteria and testing requirements with systems-based, pre-harvest agricultural water assessments.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is committed to providing support for farms that may be affected by this rule change and offers fruit and vegetable producers safety training opportunities provided in partnership with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF-IFAS). Farms that have already received this training may benefit from taking a refresher course to better understand the new rule requirements.
Under the revised rule, covered farms using preharvest water for covered produce must conduct annual agricultural water assessments and assess factors such as water source, distribution system, protection from contamination sources, application methods, time interval between water application and harvest, crop characteristics, environmental conditions and other relevant factors.
Based on the assessments, farmers must determine if corrective or nitigation measures are necessary to minimize contamination risks. Prompt action is required for hazards related to animal activity, biological soil amendments of animal origin or untreated/improperly treated human waste.
The final rule also requires supervisory review of the written assessment and determination made. Covered farms may be exempt from the assessments if they meet specific requirements for their pre-harvest agricultural water.
Compliance dates for the pre-harvest agricultural water provisions are as follows:
• Large farms – 8 months after the April 7, 2025 effective date
• Small farms – 1 year and 9 months after the April 6, 2026 effective date
• Very small farms – 2 years and 9 months after the April 5, 2027 effective date
For information on the new rule, readiness reviews and other related topics, visit www.FDACS.gov/ FSMA.
UP TO $500K IN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE TO AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS IMPACTED BY HURRICANE DEBBY
By Jim Frankowiak
Farmers, ranchers and growers in the Sunshine State impacted by Hurricane Debby can apply for low-interest or no-interest loans to help pay for damage sustained by Hurricane Debby as the system moved through the Florida peninsula.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is helping to organize the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Program. The program offers loans to eligible producers to repair or replace properties that were damaged from winds and rains caused by Debby.
That financial relief could include fences, equipment, greenhouses and other buildings, along with removal of vegetative debris.
Agriculture and aquaculture business owners can help the application process by taking photos of property that was damaged by the storm and submit those when they file for financial relief.
The Florida disaster loan program includes low-interest or interestfree loans up to $500,000 for eligible agriculture and aquaculture producers that have experienced damage or destruction from Hurricane Debby. Loans can be used to restore, repair or replace essential physical property, including fences, equipment, greenhouses and other buildings, or to remove vegetative debris.
Interested producer can learn more or apply at: https://www.fdacs. gov/Agriculture-industry/Agriculture-producers-national-disasterrecovery-loan-program.
MESH BAGS PROTECT CITRUS AGAINST GREENING, MAY IMPROVE TREE HEALTH AND FRUIT QUALITY LATER
By Brad Buck
You may have seen small trees in white shrouds on hills along the highways. They protect citrus trees from the Asian citrus psyllid and therefore, citrus greening disease.
New University of Florida research shows the trees grown under the individual protective covers (IPCs) also grow well for a few years after growers remove the bags.
Typically, after two to three years, growers remove the IPCs from trees. They then become exposed to the psyllid, which can transmit the deadly citrus greening disease. But this study showed the fruit continues to be healthy.
“We followed the trees for three years after we removed the IPCs, and we saw a clear improvement in fruit yield and quality, even though the trees were getting infected,” said Fernando Alferez, a UF/IFAS associate professor of horticultural sciences. “It’s worth mentioning that fruit quality declines over time after the covers are removed as the trees get infected, but it’s still superior to the fruit quality in the trees that are not covered.”
In this case, high quality means there’s more brix – a
measurement of the amount of sugar – in the fruit.
Alferez and his colleagues also found that trees that were once protected by IPCs produce better quality fruit for 30 months after they’re planted. Because the fruit is of such high quality, growers can have an economic return as soon as two-and-a-half years after they plant the trees.
“This is not the case if trees are planted without protection,” said Alferez, a faculty member at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center.
There are two reasons for this. First, it is highly improbable that trees not protected by IPCs can produce any fruit two-and-a-half years after planting, Alferez said. Even if they produce fruit, they have been infected for more than two years, so fruit quality will be poor.
For the past seven years, about 1,000 citrus growers have used IPCs to keep the psyllids off their trees, after Alferez tested them and provided sound scientific data showing they worked. Those growers represent what Alferez calls a significant portion of citrus farmers in Southwest and Central Florida.
For the better part of the past 20 years, Florida’s cit-
rus growers have been looking for solutions to citrus greening disease, also known as Huanglongbing (HLB). The disease has damaged much of the state’s citrus, but UF/IFAS scientists are trying many methods to keep the industry alive and well. Currently, using IPCs is the best way to protect young trees from this disease.
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
KNOW YOUR BEEF
DECODING BEEF PACKAGING LABELS
By Bridget Stice, UF/IFAS Livestock Extension Agent
When you’re at the meat counter, the packaging labels on beef provide crucial information. Understanding what’s required by law and what’s part of a marketing strategy can help you make informed choices. Let’s break down what’s on the label and shed some light on the meaning of marketing claims so you can feel confident about your purchase.
Required Information on Beef Labels
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the labeling standards for beef. Every label includes certain legally required information:
1. Product Name
The name of the beef cut, such as "Ground Beef" or "Ribeye Steak," must be clearly stated. If the product is processed or contains added ingredients (e.g., "Beef Patties" or "Seasoned Beef"), this is also indicated.
2. Inspection Legend and Establishment Number
All beef sold commercially in the U.S. must pass USDA inspection. Look for the circular USDA inspection mark along with the establishment number of the processing facility, which ensures that the meat has been processed under sanitary conditions.
3. Net Weight
The weight of the product is provided in pounds and ounces, allowing you to know exactly how much beef you’re purchasing.
4.
Ingredient List (if applicable)
For products with added ingredients, such as marinades or seasoning, the ingredients are listed in order of their weight.
5. Safe Handling Instructions
Labels include guidelines for storing, preparing, and cooking beef safely to prevent foodborne illness.
6. Country of Origin
Under USDA's Country of Origin Labeling (COOL), retailers must indicate where the beef was born, raised, and harvested. You might see labels like "Product of the USA" or references to multiple countries if the animal lived in different places.
Understanding Marketing Claims
In addition to the required information, many beef packages feature marketing claims designed to attract consumers willing to pay a premium for what they perceive as a superior product. But it's important to understand that these claims are just that—claims. They are intended to help sell the product, and they don’t necessarily indicate a difference in the safety, wholesomeness, or nutrition of the beef. Let’s clarify what some of the most common claims really mean:
1. Grass-Fed
This label means the cattle were fed grass or forage for the majority of their lives. However, most beef cattle—whether labeled as grass-fed or not—spend a significant portion of their
lives on pasture before being finished on grain. All beef cattle are raised on grass for a significant period, regardless of the label.
2. Grain-Fed
Beef from grain-fed cattle typically comes from animals finished on a grain-based diet in the months leading up to harvest. Grain feeding enhances marbling and flavor, but it doesn’t affect the beef’s safety, wholesomeness, or overall nutritional value compared to grass-fed beef.
3. Organic
Organic beef must meet USDA Organic certification standards, which ensure cattle are raised without synthetic hormones, antibiotics, or genetically modified feed. While this appeals to some consumers, it’s essential to note that all beef—organic or conventional—is free from harmful residues and is inspected for safety.
4. No Added Hormones
This claim means that hormones were not administered to the cattle to promote growth. However, all beef contains naturally occurring hormones, whether or not the animal was treated with additional hormones. Studies show that the hormone levels in beef from treated and untreated cattle are not significantly different and pose no risk to human health.
5. No Antibiotics
"No Antibiotics" means that the cattle were raised without receiving antibiotics during their lifetime. However, it's crucial to understand that all beef, regardless of whether the cattle were treated with antibiotics, is tested and must be free of antibiotic residues before it reaches the market.
6. Natural
According to the USDA, “natural” simply means the beef is minimally processed and contains no artificial ingredients. It does not address how the cattle were raised or whether they were given hormones or antibiotics. This is a common term that may sound appealing but doesn't imply a major difference in quality.
7. Certified Angus Beef
Angus is a cattle breed known for quality meat, but the "Certified Angus Beef" label refers to a brand with specific marbling and tenderness standards. While it signifies higher quality within the Angus breed, it does not mean the beef is superior in safety, nutrition, or wholesomeness compared to other breeds.
8. Pasture-Raised
This claim means that the cattle had access to pasture for at least part of their lives, but nearly all beef cattle spend the majority of their early lives on pasture, whether this claim appears on the label or not.
Marketing Claims vs. Reality: What You Should Know
While marketing claims often suggest that a product is superior, the truth is that all beef is safe, wholesome, and nutritious, regardless of the claims. The USDA and other regulatory bodies ensure that all beef meets stringent safety and quality standards before it reaches consumers.
Ultimately, these marketing claims cater to specific consumer preferences and may command a higher price, but they don’t necessarily make one product superior to another. All beef is raised with care, and ranchers take pride in producing
a product that is both nutritious and safe for your family. Conclusion
The next time you’re shopping for beef, you can confidently look past the marketing claims knowing that all beef, regardless of the label, is wholesome, nutritious, and safe. Whether you choose grass-fed, grain-fed, organic, or conventional beef, you can trust that it meets strict standards for quality and safety.
Stay tuned for more insights in the "Know Your Beef" series, where we continue to explore important topics shaping the beef industry. If you have any questions or suggestions for future articles, feel free to reach out at bccarlis@ufl.edu. Ranchers take pride in providing a safe, nutritious product, and we’re here to keep you informed on the best ways to enjoy it!
LIFE WITHOUT AN IPHONE
by John Dicks
Our perspective on things in life greatly depends on where we’re starting from. Are we coming, or are we going? Are we moving up, or fading back; going faster, or slowing down.
Take for example, the wonderful luxury of a car with power windows. If your first car had rollup windows (like mine did), the first time you experienced the ecstasy of sliding a doorwindow up and down by only touching a button seemed almost magical.
Things were just fine until you witnessed the power of that electric button; but now, there was no going back, at least if you could help it! Going forward is easy; going back is painful.
Such was the case with my recent 10 day ordeal of life without an iPhone!
Consider for a moment where we are with these technological marvels. Our “phones,” formerly referred to distinctly as “telephones” were single use items. We’d could call someone, provided that they likewise owned, or at least had access to a similar heavy, black, “stick your finger in a rotary dial” device attached to a cord running to the wall.
Life was simple. You could communicate just by making a telephone call.
Then, came the upgrades. Suddenly, we could make a connection just by pushing buttons rather than spinning a dial. Next came the absolute wonder of cordless, when we could unbelievably talk on the thing without being leashed to a wall.
Soon, we saw phones amazingly installed in cars, and people driving around town talking without even stopping in the process! It was all so amazing; and mind you, once we had it in our hands, we never would want to go backwards and do without.
Time, though, doesn’t stand still; and with technology, there was so much room to move forward.
In 2007, the late Steve Jobs, the genius behind Apple, marveled the world, and arguably changed it forever, when he introduced what he called the iPhone. Yes, it could make phone calls, but as you certainly know, it could do so, so very much more.
It’s moved us unimaginably ahead, and no doubt most of us never would want
to go back to a time without it. That would be going backward, and not forward, just like losing power windows would do.
Painful is what it would be; and certainly in my case, that’s exactly what it was.
A few weeks ago, I was hiking the beautiful North Cascades National Park when suddenly I got caught up in a short, but drenching rainstorm.
No problem, I thought, with my iPhone sloshing around in my pocket. After all, Apple loves to tout that its current iteration of iPhones can function just fine even after being fully immersed for up to 30 minutes in 19’ of water. Well, maybe so, but apparently they can’t withstand the rigor of riding soaking wet in a pocket for even a few minutes!
When I grabbed it to check the status of our trail hike, I found myself staring at a blank, black screen. That it refused to startup was more than a bit disconcerting, consider what I now could no longer do.
The trail maps could no longer guide me, nor could car maps provide directions back to civilization. No more pictures could I take, (and many were ultimately lost). No calls, nor texts, nor email, nor checking in online for the plane ride home. No electronic boarding pass, no audio books to listen to during the flight, no movies to watch, no music to listen to, nor screens to navigate the flight timeline. I no longer had the NFC signal to unlock my car at the airport, nor a QR code to get out of the parking garage. Not even Apple Pay was available!
I now had no alarm to set for the morning, no flashlight to use at night, no weather app to plan for rain, no calculator, no electronic notes, nor my list of reminders. My calendar was gone, and so was Siri and Google to give me advice.
Without my contact list, I couldn’t even borrow a phone to make a call since gone were all of the numbers that I long ago quit remembering!
The saga continued, and even with the backups that I had fastidiously been keeping, the replacement and restoration process dragged on into 10 very long days.
Yes, I survived; and strangely, I am still committed to the iPhone. Life without it is moving backward, not forward!
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.
WHEN PRICING PRODUCE TO SELL DIRECTLY TO CONSUMERS, FARMERS URGED TO KNOW THEIR COSTS
By Brad Buck
Instead of taking what the broker or retailer feels like paying, small- and medium-sized farmers who sell directly to consumers should track costs, determine what they want to earn and set their own produce prices, University of Florida experts say.
Growers should base their prices on their costs, said Kim Morgan, a UF/IFAS associate professor of food and resource economics.
“They have to know what they spend in order to know what they need to charge to cover costs and to earn a profit,” said Morgan, a faculty member at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center.
In a new AskIFAS document (https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FE1151)Morgan and co-author Jessica Ryals, the agriculture and sustainable food systems agent at UF/IFAS Extension Collier County, offer strategies for farmers who sell directly to customers.
For instance, retailers strategize what products to offer and when – a tactic farmers can mimic, Morgan said.
A small to mid-sized grower is much more flexible to niche market demands and product diversification than a large one and can therefore respond faster in that marketplace. When farmers respond to changing consumer tastes and preferences, Morgan suggests they switch product offerings. They could grow new varieties of peppers or add herbs in the next season’s production cycle. They could even partner with animal producers to offer complete meal baskets at the following week’s farmer’s market.
Growers who sell straight to customers probably know some of them well.
“Farmers have closer relationships with the people who actually eat their food, so they can suggest new menu items and cooking styles, which is really important, given peoples’ interests in trying new things, eating healthier and learning how to cook,” Morgan said.
Another tip: Growers should ask themselves why customers are making their purchases, the UF/IFAS experts say. For instance, why do we eat turkey primarily at Thanksgiving and Christmas?
“What about a ‘Christmas-in-July’ home-cooked meal, similar to clothing retailers’ summer sales events?” Morgan said.
Many of the experts’ suggestions boil down to marketing, which takes practice, particularly if you’re new to it.
“For instance, would a local TV ad get the attention of lots of people? Sure, but at what price? And if all those people showed up to buy, would you even have that much to sell them?” Morgan said.
Instead, Morgan and Ryals urge growers who sell directly to consumers to maximize the time and effort they spend on selling at farmers’ markets by asking their customers to:
• Leave their business cards, so the grower can create a customer list.
• Use a loyalty card to get a stamp every time they buy to get a discount after a number of purchases.
• Review the grower on Google or Facebook.
• Refer their friends to get a special deal when both make a purchase.
• Follow them on social media where the grower can promote products and services.
The UF/IFAS grower business strategies can apply to any farmers, Morgan said.
For example, a large grower may sell most of their crops to a broker, but they could also sell some locally.
“It is all about diversifying your market channels, which lets you move volume at different prices, and also minimizes your exposure to a downturn in any one of those channels,” Morgan said. “In general terms, people want to buy a basket of goods, just like they do at a retailer, so the farmer who can grow that and put it together with a personal touch wins.”
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.
Selling produce directly to consumers. Courtesy, Jessica Ryals, UF/IFAS.
Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Florida Beef Vegetable and Pasta Casserole
Chef Justin Timineri
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.
Florida Spinach and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms Recipes
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
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
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
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.
Schedule
8:00 a.m. Check-in
Oct. 10, 2024
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 3401 Experiment Station Ona, FL 33865
Visit sponsor booths, student poster displays, and enjoy light refreshments
9:30 a.m. Opening Assembly
Welcome, IFAS and FCA Updates
10:00 a.m. Morning Presentations
Cattle Market Outlook, Hannah Baker
Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture and Water Management, Dr. Golmar Golmohammadi
Coyote Ecology in Florida’s Rangelands, Dr. Hance Ellington
Benefits of Probiotic Supplementation in Cow-Calf Herds, Dr. Philipe Moriel
12:00 p.m. Steak Lunch / Visit Sponsor Booths
1:00 p.m. Field Tour
What is the Feed Value of Fall Fertilized Forage in South Florida?, Dr. Joao Vendramini
Smutgrass Management Techniques: Broadcast and Spot-treatment Applications, Dr. Brent Sellers
Pasture Management Strategies to Increase Soil Carbon Sequestration and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation, Dr. Maria Silveira
K9S R GR8
By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff
There are many components that make up the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, but one of my favorites are the K9s. They’re also probably the cutest…unless you’re a criminal and you find yourself on the business end of one.
The PCSO K9 Unit has proven to be invaluable. These dogs have helped save numerous lives, they’ve found missing and endangered people, and they have assisted deputies with finding weapons, evidence, and suspects on the run.
There are around 30 dogs in the PCSO K9 Unit…give or take a pup or two.
Each one of the dogs is highly-trained and teamed-up with a highly-trained deputy—the handler. And these two train together a lot, fine-tuning their communication with each other and enhancing their skills. It is one of the most dangerous jobs at the Sheriff’s Office, so it is imperative that they always operate at peak performance.
The human/dog partnership is a strong bond, and often times the two become very close working buddies. In most cases, the K9 lives with his partner and becomes a member of his partner’s family.
Most of our dogs are German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois, but we also have several bloodhounds, and even a Labrador Retriever. The Shepherds and Malinois see the most action, looking for bad guys and conducting searches for illegal drugs. The bloodhounds are great for seeking lost individuals and evidence, and the Labrador is trained to use his nose to find important stuff.
In 2023, the K-9 Units were deployed 1,151 times. In those deployments, they made 532 suspect apprehensions and 78 narcotics finds which resulted in more than $287,000 worth of narcotics and currency.
There have also been numerous times that the K9s have saved the lives of their human counterparts. These dogs will defend and protect their partners from violent attackers. A few years ago, we literally had one of our K9s get stabbed in the head and face nine times by an extremely violent man, but the dog stayed in the fight until the man was taken into custody. By the way, that dog recovered quickly and got right back to work. He’s now retired and happily living a good dog’s life.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is fortunate to have the support of so many businesses, organizations, and people. Since we’re on the subject of K9s, I want to spotlight one organization that has been a major boost to not just our agency, but more specifically to our K9 Unit—K9s for Cops Polk County. This group formed as a community outreach program from The Estates at Carpenters in Lakeland in 2012 and over the years, they have provided the PCSO with nearly thirty dogs for the PCSO K9 Unit.
They are a wonderful organization made up of very good people doing very good things. Every year, they host their annual fundraising event called “An Evening with the Stars.” This year’s event will be held on September 28 at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland. If you’d like to be a part of this night, or assist them in their efforts, check out their website at K9sforCopsPolkCounty.com.
MEET THE FFA TEAMS IN POLK COUNTY
Tenoroc FFA has been a rapidly growing chapter, and we are thrilled about the upcoming school year! Last year, we proudly won the Trail Blazer Program of the Year from Lakeland Leads, thanks to the dedication and hard work of our members. Recently, we enhanced our land lab by relocating the greenhouse and establishing a new cow pen work area. These improvements have already led to an increase in stu-
dent participation in showing plants and animals. Our officer team is eagerly anticipating the community service projects planned for this year, as well as preparing for career development competitions and agricultural projects. Additionally, several of our students are excited about showcasing their talents at the Polk County Youth Fair! Looking forward to seeing our fellow FFA members!
The Winter Haven Sr. FFA Chapter in Polk County, FL has grown tremendously over the past 2 years. From rebuilding our Ag Program last year, to doubling our membership, our chapter has become more efficient each and every day. For the first time in over 15 years, we are running for The National Chapter Award, which includes many community service projects. Since we are in Winter Haven, our high school is within city limits, therefore we had to form together as a community to be allowed to have animals on campus. We went from having 10 pigs and 6 goats, to 23 pigs and 12 goats that will be kept on campus this year! Before last year, we hadn't had livestock animals on campus in over 15 years! As officers, we have been able to fight through various losses and challenges in former years! We now have over 60+ students participating in showing animals, competitions, as well as doubling our membership, all due to the amazing support from the people and businesses across our great county! We are proud of our chapter and excited to expand it in the years to come. It is an honor and blessing to be a part of Winter Haven Sr. FFA. #BD4L
Written by: Kylynn Story (President) and Brooklynn Headley (Vice President) of the Winter Haven Sr. FFA Officer Team.
If you would like to have your officer team included in upcoming issues, please email a photo and paragraph about your team to sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com.
WINTER HAVEN
TENOROC
A
Closer Look
Naturally Amazing Activities
by Sean Green | Photos by April Green
Bamboo Frog Gig
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:
Natural methods italicized
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
A Closer Look by Sean 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.
Photos by April Green
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Polk County Cattle Women County Cattle Women
All together now, “Rain, rain, go away, come again another day!” Lord, thank you for the rain, but I think we are starting to think about getting our wood working tools out to start building an ark. It is also that time of the year where every weekend is booked up with something new, and we are filling up the calendar quick! Polk County CattleWomen have a busy fall season coming up. We will be attending the first Florida Cattlemen’s Quarterly of the year in Melbourne. This first quarterly is held in the home county of our CattleWomen’s President, which is Eden Yarborough from Brevard County. I will be helping co-chair the Public Relations committee meeting. We are also preparing for the Polk County Cattlemen’s
membership dinner and some Florida CattleWomen’s ranch tours coming up soon!
If you are interested in joining us, please shoot me an email at blairbuchanon@ gmail.com to join our email list and receive updates on PCCW/FCW and upcoming meeting invites. Don’t forget to be #loyaltotheland!
Blair Buchanon
Polk County Cattlewomen President
blairbuchanon@gmail.com
