In The Field magazine Hillsborough edition

Hey

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Football & Food

PAGE 50 Rain Barrels & Horticulture

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Hillsborough County Farm Bureau 305 S. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL.

Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Insurance Services: 813-685-5673

Member Services: 813-685-9121

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Dennis Carlton, Jr.....................President

Carl Bauman................Vice President

Tony Lopez..............Treasurer

Madison Astin Salter..................Secretary

DIRECTORS FOR 2021 - 2022

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PAGE 53

Growing Lettuce

PAGE 56 From The Scientific Field

PAGE 58 AgCareer Day

PAGE 60

Recipes

Dennis Carlton Jr, Carl Bauman, Madison A. Salter, Tony Lopez, Tiffany D. Randall, Jake Cremer, Brittany Coleman, Travis Council, Drew Futch, Rep. Lawrence McClure, Sammi Wilcox, Michelle Williamson, Casey Runkles, Gayle Yanes

Kaylee Poppell, Executive Director 813-685-9121

Farm Bureau Insurance Special Agents

Valrico Office

813-685-5673

100 S. Mulrennan Rd., Valrico, FL. 33594

Tommy Hale, CLU, ChFC, CASL, CPCU Agency Mgr.

Julie Carlson, Jacob Jones

Plant City Office 813.752.5577

305 S. Wheeler St., Plant City, FL 33563

Jeff Summer

Apollo Beach Office

813.933.5440

6510 N. US Hwy 41, Apollo Beach, FL.33572

Greg Harrell, Erin Campbell

AGENCY MANAGER

Thomas O. Hale

Cover Photo by Karen Berry

Exceptional location in the rapidly growing I-4 corridor. The site is fully permitted for 57 single family lots. Forty-Nine lots are ½ acre in size and Eight lots are 1 acre in size. Less than 1 mile to I-4, easy access to Downtown Tampa and University of South Florida.

Sale Price: $4,500,000

Spectacular 68+ acres featuring a serene 16-acre lake in the center, surrounded by lush upland pasture, and oak hammocks. The southern 20 acres of this property is zoned ASC-1 (1 home per acre) and the northern 48 acres is zoned AS-0.4 (1 home per 2.5 acres).

Sale Price: $2,500,000

Two Creeks Residential Development, Dover, FL

Plant City Lake Preserve 68± Acres, Plant City, FL

Letter from the Editor

Publisher/Photography

Karen Berry

Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher

Sarah Holt

Editor

Patsy Berry

Sales

Karen Berry

Sarah Holt

Melissa Nichols

George Domedion

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah Holt

Creative Director/Illustrator

Juan Alvarez

Photography

Karen Berry

Melissa Nichols

Staff Writers

Al Berry

Sandy Kaster

James Frankowiak

Sean Green

Contributing Writers

Woody Gore

John Dicks

Tiffany Dale

Social Media

Victoria Saunders

In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Grower’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.

be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25

Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

An Important Time for Agriculture

-Dennis Carlton Jr. - President

Greetings,

While every day of the year is important for our industry, the days ahead are of particular importance as our lawmakers finalize policies for the next Farm Bill. Those policies directly impact every farm and ranch in this country.

I appreciate the time many of you have devoted to this ongoing process, providing feedback on regulations and policy proposals that impact our ability to safely and sustainably grow our nation’s food, fiber and fuel. This will be further discussed at our upcoming annual meeting on October 5 at the Strawberry Festival grounds. Please let us know if you will be attending. In addition to sharing important information, the meeting is also a great opportunity for fellowship.

This letter is being written shortly after Hurricane Idalia took place. My thoughts and prayers to those who were impacted by that event, and my thanks that our local area was granted a reprieve.

I would also like to congratulate Ashlyn Demanovich of the Newsome FFA for winning the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Youth Speech Contest, an an-

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

nual event that provides an opportunity for young people to demonstrate their public speaking skills and knowledge of issues facing agriculture. The topic this year was “How have supply chain issues impacted Florida Agriculture?” Our Women’s Committee hosted the competition and I am appreciative of their time and effort for this innovative way to educate and share information about our industry.

My congratulations also to our Executive Director Kaylee Poppell and her husband, Seth, for the birth of their daughter, Charlee Kay.

Lastly, if you are not a Farm Bureau member, please consider joining so that you can help us with our role as the “Voice of Agriculture” whether it is locally, statewide, or nationally. Please visit www.hcfarmbureau. org for more information about member benefits and opportunities for engagement.

Dennis Carlton, Jr.

Dennis Carlton Jr.

Dennis Carlton Jr. - President

Dennis Carlton Jr, President; Carl Bauman, Vice-President; Tony Lopez, Treasurer; Madison Astin Salter, Secretary; Tiffany D. Randall, Jake Cremer, Brittany Coleman, Travis Council, Drew Futch, Rep. Lawrence McClure, Sammi Wilcox, Michelle Williamson, Casey Runkles, Gayle Yanes

ES Florida Golden Aster

By Libby Hopkins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

81st Annual

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FARM BUREAU

ANNUAL MEETING

Please make plans to attend the OCTOBER 5TH AT 6:30PM

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GROUNDS

TECO EXPO HALL

Event Includes:

Two( 2) Steak Dinners per Family

Additional dinners are $15.00 per guest. Children under 12 receive a free hotdog dinner

Youth Speech Contest Winner

YF+R Cake Auction and 50/50 Raffle Award Ceremony

Board of Directors Election

THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSORS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dennis Carlton Jr, President; Carl Bauman, Vice-President; Tony Lopez, Treasurer; Madison Astin Salter, Secretary; Jake Cremer, Brittany Coleman, Travis Council, Tiffany Dale, Drew Futch, Rep. Lawrence McClure, Casey Runkles, Michelle Williamson, Sammi Wilcox, Kaylee Poppell, Executive Director

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

By Jim Frankowiak

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

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

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

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

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

CARNIVOROUS PLANTS

By Libby Hopkins

When you think of carnivorous plant, the movie Little Shop of Horrors comes to mind and the carnivorous plant named “Seymour.” To Kenny Coogan, carnivorous plants are his passion and his work. “I grew up raising hundreds of ducks, chickens, pigeons and geese,” said Coogan. “I first fell in love with carnivorous plants in high school when the hall monitor of the school came in and gave a guest presentation. I showed interest. The next day he gifted me a Venus flytrap and a sundew.”

Coogan has a master’s degree in global sustainability and is passionate about Florida’s wildlife and plants. He is the owner of Critter Companions by Kenny Coogan.

His professional experience with carnivorous plants started fifteen years ago when he cofounded the Western New York Carnivorous Plant club. “I started my Florida state certified nursery about five years ago when I saw that there was not a lot of carnivorous plants being sold at local plant sales,” Coogan said. “At that time I had been growing them as a hobby for 15 years.”

Carnivorous plants are fascinating and unique plants that have adapted to survive in nutrient-poor environments by trapping

and consuming insects and other small animals. These plants have evolved to be able to capture and digest their prey in order to obtain the nutrients they need to survive. Carnivorous plants have many benefits, including providing a natural form of pest control, adding beauty to the home, and providing an interesting conversation piece. They are also relatively easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of having carnivorous plants in your home or garden.

Carnivorous plants are an interesting and exclusive type of plant that can be grown indoors. These plants have adapted to survive in nutrient-poor environments by trapping and digesting insects and other small animals. Growing carnivorous plants indoors can provide a number of benefits, including aesthetic appeal and educational opportunities. “Florida has the most carnivorous plants out of all of the United States,” said Coogan. “Currently, Florida has 32 species of native carnivorous plants and one non-native. Some species are restricted to the panhandle, others are restricted to the southern tip, and some live within the peninsula. To grow them in your backyard it is best to replicate their natural environment.”

Although Florida has many genera in the state, the plants that are most grown in cultivation require similar growing conditions. “These plants have evolved to live in nutrient-poor soils that have pure uncontaminated water,” said Coogan. Sarracenia species (North American pitcher plants), Drosera species (sundews), Pinguicula primuliflora, and the non-native Dionaea muscipula (Venus flytrap) are commonly found at plant sales and online nurseries.”

To help your carnivorous plants grow and thrive, Coogan suggests using rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water only. “Tap, well and city water is usually not pure enough,” said Coogan. “If you have a water test, the reading should be 50 parts per million or less of total dissolved solids. I use rainwater collected off shingled and metal roofs and the measurements are usually 0-10 ppm. Measurements higher than 50 ppm will cause minerals, salts, and contaminants to build up in the soil and kill your plants.”

Keeping things local is important to Coogan. “When you support local businesses, those businesses can reinvest in the community,” said Coogan. “This can be through philanthropy or more often times in the form of purchasing goods and services in the community. Whenever I am booked to speak at an event, I eat locally, and the organization purchases books to be donated to schools or libraries.”

If you’d like to learn more about Coogan’s carnivorous plants or if you’d like to purchase one, you can visit his website at www.kennycoogan.com.

Summer Thunderstorms

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capt. Woody Gore

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

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

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

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

Tampa Bay Fishing Report

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

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

Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)

Snook

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

Redfish

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

Spotted

Sea Trout

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

Cobia

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

Tarpon

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

“Give

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.

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some things I don’t understand

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 brother-in-law since he is the half-brother of my stepdaughter, who is now, of course, my daddy’s wife.

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

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

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

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

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

HOMEGROWN HILLSBOROUGH LAUNCHED; NEEDS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

By Jim Frankowiak

The Homegrown Hillsborough Food System Program (Homegrown Hillsborough) has officially launched and needs community involvement to make it a success.

Homegrown Hillsborough is a community development initiative led by Hillsborough County Extension and “seeks to create a network of community members with a mission to grow a food stronger food system,” said Extension Food System Program Coordinator Monica Petrella. Hillsborough County is home to dozens of food sources, including fruits, vegetables and livestock that are purchased and consumed locally.

Among those foods are beef cattle, blueberries, strawberries, summer squash, watermelons, honey, tomatoes, Kohlrabi, oranges. pineberries, bell peppers, Asian fusion vegetables, peaches, southern peas, okra, tangerines, grapefruit, eggplants, cantaloupes and zucchini.

“Our vision is an integrated food system that is diverse, reliable and creates opportunities for active participation,” said Petrella. The program has as its values: stewardship, community well-being, choice, education and accessibility.

“Now through the end of the year are asking community residents to get involved in one of several ways: complete the residential survey, participate in an organizational interview, and help spread the word by inviting the Homegrown Hillsborough team to present at your company, neighborhood group, community organization, school, religious institution or any other community gathering,” said Petrella.

More information and the way for residents to become involved in Homegrown Hillsborough can be accessed at: www.homegrownhillsborough. com.

EXTENSION OFFERING LIVE, INTERACTIVE PERSONAL FINANCE WEBINARS

By Jim Frankowiak

The University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Hillsborough County is offering a series of live, interactive webinars on personal finance. All are from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. EST and there is no cost to participants.

Dates and subject matter are:

SEPT 21, BASIC INVESTMENT CONCEPTS: This webinar will cover foundational investment concepts. The discussion will include time horizon, risk, asset allocation, tax considerations, and reliable resources.

REGISTRATION:

https://ufl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEpd-mqqDMvGtCsjw07bHnnXMBuA3PaRzy8

SEPT 28, INTRODUCTION TO MUTUAL FUNDS: This will cover basic concepts such as types of mutual funds, fund objectives, returns, tax considerations, and tools to evaluate funds.

REGISTRATION:

https://ufl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcvf-uvrj0pG9XXkKydGWk8j0Z8B-XwzoVp

OCT 5, MUTUAL FUNDS AND EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS: This will cover the similarities and differences between mutual and exchange-traded funds.

REGISTRATION: https://ufl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMqcu6qrz0uHtfc9LOckdCOKFZ6A0-82ZWy

OCT 26, ESTATE PLANNING: Estate planning protects you and your family in times of crisis or death. It allows you to choose who will care for your children, manage your finances, and make a plan to transfer assets to heirs. Discussion will include legal documents, methods for the transfer of assets, life insurance, and resources for additional information.

FALL GARDENING “TO-DO” LIST

Lynn Barber, FFL Agent, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County

Either you love or hate “to-do” lists. For those of you who love lists, here’s my list of Fall “to-do’s.”

• Water less: Decrease landscape irrigation frequency. Consider turning off your irrigation controller and watering only when plants need water. We offer a WaterWise Workshop for Hillsborough County residents who can receive a microirrigation kit, which uses less water than an in-ground irrigation system, applies water where plants need it -- which is at the root zone -- and does not lose water via evaporation.

• Mulch more frequently and as needed: Mulch retains soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes, suppresses weed growth, reduces stormwater runoff and erosion, enhances the beauty of your landscape, provides increased area for root growth, and protects plants from lawnmowers and weed eaters. Mulch should be two to three inches deep after it settles.

• Plant: You can plant fall vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, carrot) and shrubs and trees that are cold hardy. For more information on what and when to plant, type

one of the following in your browser: UF Central Florida Gardening Calendar, which provides information about what to plant and do each month of the year, and the UF Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide which provides recommended varieties, days to harvest, spacing and seed depth. Both are great resources.

• Check for pests and handle accordingly. The most challenging aspect of controlling insects can well be proper identification which is critical to selecting the proper method of control. These methods include cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical. There are several environmentally safe pest solutions available.

• Divide and conquer your perennials: Dividing clumping perennials is a great way to spread their beauty throughout your landscape or ‘gift’ them to a special friend or neighbor.

• Cuttings for spring: Take cuttings of plants that will not survive the winter outdoors. This is a terrific way to start your spring plant collection inside, on your lanai or porch, depending on the temperatures.

photo credit Jacqlyn Rivas

photo credit Jacqlyn Rivas

• Relocate houseplants: If your houseplants were outside for the summer and early fall, consider bringing them inside your home before temperatures dip below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fall is an exciting time to manage what needs to be addressed in your landscape. The heat, humidity and thunderstorms of summer have moved on. Now it is much more pleasant to get outside and garden.

For more information about the Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Program or assistance with gardening re-

lated questions, contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 813-744-5519, visit us at 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584 or http://hillsborough./ifas. ufl.edu.

We hope you will stop by to stroll through the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden in our courtyard.

photo credit Jacqlyn Rivas

NEWS BRIEFS

Compiled by Jim Frankowiak

Hillsborough County 4-H Members Receive Scholarships

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

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

Farm Bureau Members Enjoy Best-in-Class Travel Service

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

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

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

Ag In The Classroom Offering Two Grants

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

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

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

New

Podcast – Rural Recharge – Available from Florida Farm

Bureau

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

CattleCon24 Registration Open

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

USDA Accepting EQIP Applications

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

USDA Awards Florida Over $3.8 Million in Specialty Crop Grants

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

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

Hall of Fame

Chris Tompkins Named to Florida 4-H

4-H Leaders from throughout Florida recently joined volunteers, members and guests at the University of Florida to recognize and honor five outstanding individuals as 2023 inductees to the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame. Among the recipients named by the UF/IFAS Extension 4-H Youth Development Program and the Florida 4-H Foundation was Christopher Tompkins of Hillsborough County, who was honored posthumously.

The Florida 4-H Hall of Fame, established during the national centennial year of 4-H in 2002, annually honors outstanding 4-H alumni, community leaders, professionals and volunteers. Recipients are recognized for their remarkable contributions to the 4-H program and their communities through personal achievement, citizenship, career, character and leadership.

Although his life was tragically cut short, Chris Tompkins made a lasting impact on all those who knew him. His legacy of leadership at a young age impacted the careers of many fellow 4-H members. “I am not sure if there has ever been a student more decorated than Christopher Tompkins. His drive to succeed, I have not witnessed in any other; however, instead of focusing on all his awards, his real impact was his ability to elevate others and encourage them to grow personally,” said Scott Brooks, director of adult, career and technical education for Hillsborough County Schools. Brooks related his own experiences which included going from a local 4-H’er to a state officer and traveling throughout the country with Chris and their 4-H Exchange Club.

Leadership came naturally to Tompkins. He served as President of his local 4-H Club, as well as President of both the Hillsborough 4-H County Council and District Council, as well as a state officer. His range of 4-H projects spanned from citizenship and leadership to public speaking, food and nu-

trition, poultry, swine and just about everything in between. Tompkins particularly enjoyed fairs; being an exhibitor at the Hillsborough County Jr. Ag Fair (now the Hillsborough County Fair), the Florida Strawberry Festival and the Florida State Fair, often entering dozens of categories.

One of his proudest achievements was being named the National 4-H winner in Citizenship and receiving a silver tray from the President of the United States. But while the recognitions were appreciated, he most enjoyed planning projects to help others in both small and large ways. This included gleaning ag fields with other youth, that would later evolve into the annual 4-H Strawberry U-Pick at Fancy Farms.

Tompkins served as a Congressional Page for Congressman Mike Bilirakis during his junior year of high school, traveling back and forth to Washington while managing 4-H activities and attending the Congressional Page School. In D.C. he was honored as the Outstanding Republican Page both terms.

His leadership continued as a University of Florida student, where he served as President of the Student Senate and Student Government Treasurer, before being elected as UF Student Government President with almost 70% of the vote in a six person race. While at the University of Florida, first as an undergraduate and then law school graduate, he became the University’s first National Truman Scholar. Additionally, he was Hillsborough’s youngest elected official and as Chairman of HSWCD was named as the most outstanding in the state.

Following law school, Tompkins worked with numerous elected officials and opened his own law practice in Brandon, where he continued his community service with 4-H and Rotary, among other groups. He lost his battle with leukemia in 2005 at the age of 34, leaving a legacy of dedicated service, authentic leadership and a firm belief in the importance of citizenship and community service.

“It was truly a surprise and an honor to have received this Florida 4-H Hall of Fame recognition on behalf of Chris and the video tribute was just beyond words,” noted his mother Betty Jo Tompkins upon accepting the award. “Chris loved 4-H and the University of Florida. Our family philosophy has always been ‘Always seek power to do, never power to be, and let your spirit soar’. That’s how we all felt about the Gator Nation and all that we were blessed to do. Chris would also be so grateful to his friends and 4-H family that nominated him, with some coming from as far away as Kentucky and Texas for the event.”

Among those joining Tompkins from Hillsborough for the ceremony were Patsy Brooks, Carl and Dee Dee Grooms family of Fancy Farms (2022 recipients), and Amber Norris, Hillsborough 4-H Extension Agent.

Charlee Kay Poppell!

Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Executive Director

Kaylee Poppell and her husband, Seth, are pleased to announce the birth of their first child, daughter Charlee Kay. Born August 1, Charlee weighed 7 lbs., 15 ounces and was 20.5 “tall”.

Congratulations Kaylee and Seth, and Welcome Charlee!

In Hillsborough County, your choice for quality care is simple.

You have a leader in clinical excellence right in your backyard.

At South Florida Baptist Hospital, you get compassionate, highquality care from an experienced team. You’re our primary focus, so we combine outstanding health care with state-of-the-art technologies to bring you exceptional clinical outcomes. You can get specialized treatment in a number of areas including heart care, cancer care, obstetrics, orthopedics and much more. We’re committed to being your partner for continued health and wellness, and giving you the extraordinary care you deserve. Make the easy health care choice–South Florida Baptist Hospital, located at 301 North Alexander Street in Plant City.

To learn more, go to BayCareInHillsborough.org or scan this code.

CHERRY PLUMS: JUICY SUMMER TREAT

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

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

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

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

Nutritional Profile

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

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

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

Antioxidants: Fight off disease

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

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

Vitamin C: For a strong immune system

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

Fiber: For regularity and good health

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

How to select and store

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

How to enjoy

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

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

Selected References

http://www.uga.edu

http://www.whfoods.com

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

Business Up Front Premium Power Bull Sale November 3

By Jim Frankowiak

The once-a-year Beefmaster bull sale is set for November 3 at the Hardee County Cattlemen’s Arena in Wauchula. This annual event is slated to begin at 1 p.m.

“This is the only Beefmaster bull sale in Florida where the bulls are raised and developed in the State of Florida,” noted Colson Cannon, a founder and event partner. “Our priority is to raise bulls for the commercial cattlemen with an emphasis on longevity, fertility, structural integrity and natural muscling ability.”

The Beefmaster breed was developed in 1933 by Tom Lasater from a systematic crossing of Hereford cows and Shorthorn cows with Brahman bulls. While the exact mixture of the foundation cattle is unknown, it is thought to be 25 percent each of Hereford and Milking Shorthorn with 50 percent Brahman. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) first recognized the new breed in 1954.

The original intention was to produce cattle that could produce economically in the difficult envi-

ronment of South Texas. The cattle were selected by using the Six Essentials – weight, conformation, milking ability, fertility, hardiness and disposition. While brownish-red is the most common color, the breed has no color standards. Over the past decade, the Beefmaster breed has become very popular among herd managers using the breed in their heterosis programs for hybrid vigor. These cattle are a versatile breed and adapt to many climates.

Post weaning, bulls are raised at Etheridge Cattle Company in Williston, Florida. Bulls are then tested for feed efficiency by the C-Lock Smart Feeders through the Southern Beef Performance Center. After the 30 day warm up period there is a 75+ day test period for RFI, FCR, and ADG bulls are fed ad libitum a roughage based ration to target 3.5# ADG. After the test period is over bulls are then carcass ultrasound for REA, IMF and Rib Fat measurements. At that time, they get their yearling weight and scrotal circumferences recorded. Bulls are then turned into large grass traps to continue their development process until sale day. The

large grass traps allow the bulls to acclimate to native forages as well as build natural muscling to be able to maintain their body condition in the harsh Gulf coast environments.

“Our bulls are born and raised by cattlemen for cattlemen along the Gulf Coast and ready to work in any environment,” said Cannon of Cannon Cattle with operations in Brooksville, Florida and Attapulgus, Georgia. He and Lauren Lyssy of Lyssy Beefmasters, Stockdale, Texas founded the Premium Power Bull Sale. Their partners include G4 Ranch, Bigfoot, Texas; S3 Beefmasters, Poteet, Texas; Hidden Spring Ranch, Attapulgus, Georgia; Goodwin Beefmasters, Brooksville, Florida and C & M Ranches in Kershaw, South Carolina.

“We will be selling approximately 80 ready-towork Beefmaster bulls developed in Florida for commercial cattlemen,” Cannon said. “All bulls will be sold with all of their weights and measures, including efficiency and carcass data.”

Interested parties can learn more about and register for the sale event at: www.premiumpowerbullsale.com. They may also call either Colson Cannon at 352/345-3716 or Lauren Lyssy at 210/414-2119.

Welcome Back

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

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

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

We help the world grow the food it needs.

www.mosaicfloridaphosphate.com

THERE

ARE ONLY TWO MORE

TRIPLE WORKSHOPS

PRIOR TO 2023 YEAR-END! COMPOST, MICROIRRIGATION AND RAINWATER HARVESTING WORKSHOPS AT EXTENSION

If you have not previously attended these workshops on a Saturday at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Hillsborough County Extension, we hope you will attend….and you will be in for an educational feast. Make plans to register and spend an upcoming Saturday morning, October 7, or November 4, at the Compost, Microirrigation and Rainwater Harvesting workshops in Seffner. Workshops are for Hillsborough County residents, one time only, one set of items per household and pre-registration is required.

If you want to learn how to create your own compost, attend the Compost Happens workshop for details on how to turn trash into treasure. This workshop teaches attendees to recycle kitchen and yard waste while creating a rich soil amendment. Compost adds nutrients to the soil and retains moisture in the root zone where it can be used by plants. Instead of hauling your yard waste to the curb, compost it on site. By attending, you will receive a compost bin, bucket and thermometer.

Come to a Microirrigation workshop that teaches you how to have a healthy and attractive landscape while conserving water. Tips are provided on installing and using microirrigation. Using miroirrigation conserves water and is not included in our current watering restrictions. By attending, you will receive a microirrigation kit. We also offer classes on Patio/ Container Gardening and Vegetable Gardening.

Learn how to harvest rainwater with a Rain Barrel, made from a 45-55-gallon plastic food-grade drum. Recycling these containers is useful in collecting rainwater for ornamental plant irrigation while reducing erosion and stormwater runoff. One inch of rain on a 1,000 square foot roof provides 623 gallons of water. In our area, we receive 50-52 inches of rain per year. This means all of us could harvest more than 31,000 gallons of water for landscape irrigation instead of using potable water. By attending, you will receive a drilled and spigoted rain barrel.

By attending one, two or all three workshops, you will expand your environmental conservation education and have fun while learning something new. Cost to attend is $5.00 per household, per workshop. For additional information and to register, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/organizations/ events. Workshops are sponsored by UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, Tampa Bay Water, City of Tampa Water Department and Hillsborough County Public Utilities.

For more gardening information, please contact or visit the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, 744-5519, or stop by at 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584, where you can walk through the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden and see Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM in action! Hope to see you at a workshop in the very near future. Contact me at barberL@ ufl.edu.

Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ agent, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County

AGRIBUSINESS is Big Business for the Florida State Fair

The Florida State Fair is in its 120th year and agriculture and livestock events are as equally important today as they were at the inaugural Florida State Fair in 1904. While the Agribusiness Department may have changed over the years, a steadfast commitment to Florida agriculture, education, and exhibitors has always remained the same. As a part of the Florida State Fair Authority (FSFA) team, the Agribusiness Department’s mission shares that of the FSFA.

The mission of the Florida State Fair Authority is to create positive entertainment experiences through:

The annual Florida State Fair.

A variety of year-round events.

Quality competitive programs.

A commitment to agriculture, education, and community service.

Every February, the excitement and anticipation of the Florida State Fair welcomes over 500,000 visitors; however, the Agribusiness Department works all year long with the community, agriculture industry, and to develop and host programs that continue to strengthen and uphold the importance of agriculture in Florida.

The opportunities to grow, develop leadership skills, exhibit livestock and animals, and make an impact in the community are countless with all that the department offers. During the Fair, exhibitors have the opportunity to compete in 10 youth livestock shows including steer, swine, sheep, beef, dairy, goat, poultry, rabbit, dog and llama. These shows draw approximately 1,250 youth exhibitors from across the state who enter over 2,200 animal projects. In addition to the youth livestock shows, exhibitors from the Florida FFA Association, 4-H, and Youth Leaders in Production Agriculture (YLPA) have the

By Tiffany Dale

opportunity to further compete in the Champion of Champions Program. This program is in its 28th year and showcases the best of the best exhibitors.

The Fair offers not only Youth Livestock Shows but also Open Shows which allow adults and out-of-state exhibitors to participate. “In our Open Livestock Show, we had 700 exhibitors with more than 1900 entries. This past fair, we welcomed 24 out-of-state exhibitors, making our shows very competitive,” said Lynann Hudson, Florida State Fair Director of Agribusiness.

The department hosts other events throughout the year so that exhibitors can continue to learn, grow, and prepare for the shows that take place during the Fair. These programs include the Youth Steer Futurity Calf Sale in August, the Allspecies Educational Seminar in September, and additional clinics and workshops. This coming Fall, the department will host Youth Dog, Swine and Poultry workshops that will be open to all Florida Youth Exhibitors. These continuing education opportunities only strengthen the value and efforts of the Agribusiness Department, keeping programs and the mission relevant all year long.

In addition to competitive events, the Agribusiness Department also focuses on educational programs that partner with the community, the agriculture industry, and students. “We are deeply committed to all our local youth and their education and offer the Ag-Venture program in partnership with Hillsborough County Farm Bureau, Hillsborough County Extension Office and several local commodity groups,” said Hudson. Ag-Venture is a third-grade field trip focusing on the importance of agriculture in everyday life that is held at the fairgrounds each October and April. Public, private, and homeschoolers are all invited to participate in this unique hands-on learning. Ag-Venture hosts approximately 3,000 students, annually.

The department provides opportunities for many agricultural and community organizations to partner on livestock shows, events and other educational opportunities throughout the year.

“Partners and sponsors are who truly make these shows and programs possible. Our partnerships within the Florida agriculture industries are solid and contribute to our success in so many ways. The Agribusiness Department could not do what we do, without the expertise, help and support of so many people and organizations. In particular, the guidance and support that we get from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is tremendous. Walking side by side with our partners is a true honor, and I appreciate all they do,” said Hudson. “Mosaic is the presenting sponsor for the Youth Livestock Programs and has been active in the Champion of Champions program since its conception in 1998. Not only do they support the youth monetarily through the programs, but they provide two $1,500 scholarships for college-bound exhibitors. The Agribusiness Department is grateful to have so many partners who value the importance of Ag Education and appreciates all the hard work of our youth exhibitors.”

Currently, the Agribusiness Department fulltime staff includes: Lynann Hudson, Director of Agribusiness, Kerri Lefler, Agribusiness Coordinator, and Emily Smith, Agribusiness Program Assistant.

“We thank Lisa Hinton, a former Director of Agribusiness, for her legacy in building out the structure and programming which is the foundation for our department to this day,” said Hudson.

Lynann Hudson has served as the Florida State Fair Director of Agribusiness since 2017 and began working at the fair in

1995 as a seasonal fair-time employee doing data entry for livestock programs.

“I was blessed to have been mentored by two of the most qualified women in Florida Agriculture, Lisa Hinton and Vina Jean Banks. They instilled in me just how important it is to educate our Fair patrons and to do my best to make the experiences of our exhibitors memorable,” said Hudson. “Since taking on my current role in 2017, I have been challenged to not do what we have always done, and instead, to think out of the box, particularly in the face of Covid. To my surprise, these ideas and concepts took hold and offered improvements. In that regard, fear of change was no longer an obstacle. My focus will continue to be bringing the importance of Florida Agriculture to the forefront so that our patrons understand that agriculture is everywhere! It is extremely important to me and the Agribusiness Team that everyone coming to the Florida State Fair have a wonderful experience and leave with a new appreciation for Florida agriculture.”

Kerri Lefler serves as the Agribusiness Coordinator in the FSFA Agribusiness Department and has been with the department since 2015. She works diligently to coordinate and oversee many of the livestock shows and obtain and coordinate all livestock judges. In addition to the shows, she works to coordinate record book judging and skillathon volunteers. Lefler’s efforts extend to many shows, programs, and ambassador coordination and supervision, keeping her very busy with many of the inner workings of the programs and those involved.

Lefler’s background as an agricultural educator, longstanding involvement with FFA, and degree in Citrus-Business from Florida Southern provides her with a great skill set to truly follow the mission of the FSFA. Her knowledge and ex-

Lynann Hudson

Kerri Lefler

EmilySmith

perience encompass the purpose of the agribusiness department to continue to commit to furthering the education and experience of those involved with all that the department offers.

“Being a part of this department has allowed me to meet many people from around our state and the nation. So much goes into making sure the fair is an enjoyable experience for everyone,” said Lefler.

In 2018, Emily Smith joined the team in the FSFA Agribusiness Department as the Agribusiness Program Assistant. Areas that Smith oversees include field trips with local students who visit the programs that the department hosts, small livestock shows, contests, and ribbons and awards for the shows.

In addition to a dynamic staff, countless volunteers assist in the department’s success. Over 505 volunteer hours were logged in just the livestock barns alone during the 2023 Fair. “The Agribusiness Department could not do what we do without the support of our 132 committee members, show staff and volunteers. Each of these are a vital part of the success of our agricultural programs,” said Hudson.

As the 2024 Fair is approaching on February 8-19, 2024, the department is developing new events and contests for interested youth who may not have the opportunity to have a livestock project but have an interest in agricultural mechanics and the arts. The goal of the department is to create and promote new and different activities for youth exhibitors to display their talents. In addition to expanding into ag mechanics and the arts, programs such as the Show Pals Livestock Show have been recently added. This event is designed for youth with a permanent physical or intellectual disability who are interested in participating in a youth livestock show. These students will be paired with a 2024 Youth Sheep or Dairy Goat Show exhibitor and will be able to work with that exhibitor to be able to walk their animal into the show ring for judging.

“Show Pals Livestock Show, as part of our Youth Sheep Show, has become one of the favorite events during the Fair. Watching these students work with the Youth Sheep exhibitors and their animals will put a smile on every face. It is pure joy and happiness. Being able to expand this program to another weekend during our Youth Dairy Goat Show will be an added blessing for everyone involved,” said Hudson.

FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT PLANTCITYMAINSTREET.ORG

Time Of Transition

by John Dicks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Closer Look Bamboo Frog Gig

Naturally Amazing Activities

by Sean Green | Photos by April Green

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

Materials:

Staff Cane or Bamboo at least 1” diameter

Spacers Cane or Bamboo at about 1/8” diameter

Wrap Leather, Twine, plant fibres.

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

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

Directions:

Split the bamboo into four equal quadrants with a knife

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

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

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

Coat with wax or pitch is desired (waterproofing)

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

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

Soak Leather Mold Leather

Trim Leather

Natural methods italicized

A Closer Look by Sean Green | Photos by April

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.

Green

FOOTBALL SEASON STARTS SOON,

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

By Brad Buck

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

That means food – lots of it.

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

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

“The UF/IFAS citrus breeding program is known worldwide for its work to develop new citrus varieties of all types, to support the future of the industry in Florida,” said Fred Gmitter, professor of citrus breeding and ge-

netics at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center. “Why not start your tailgating day off right with a cool glass of nutrient packed OJ at breakfast? And certainly, it would be great to have Florida-grown grapefruit in classic retro cocktails such as a Brown Derby or a Greyhound, as game time approaches, or to celebrate the outcome after the game.”

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

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

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

• Savor mango salsa.

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

• Enjoy fruit skewers with strawberries and blueberries.

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

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

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

• Wash your hands before any food preparation.

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

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

• When grilling, always use a meat thermometer.

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

UF/IFAS offers more tailgating food-safety tips.

ABOUT UF/IFAS

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

WHY FOOD IS OUR MIDDLE NAME

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

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR RAIN BARREL DECORATING CONTEST AND HORTICULTURE SHOW AT

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR

Hillsborough youth groups, including 4-H Clubs, FFA Chapters, Scout Troops, youth worship groups and other organizations are invited to participate in the 2023 Rain Barrel Decorating contest sponsored by the Florida Conservation Coalition at the 2023 Hillsborough County Fair. The contest consists of decorating a provided rain barrel with their best interpretation of the Fair’s 2023 theme “Rooted in Tradition” for a chance to win cash prizes. The winning rain barrel will receive $250.00, with second place receiving $150.00, third place $100.00 and honorable mention $50.00. In addition, groups may elect to sell their rain barrel at the Fair’s Super Plant Auction on November 12 for additional monies.

Due to the recent storm interruption, entry deadlines have been extended until September 30 for this contest, with a maximum of 20 entries accepted. Full details on receiving the rain barrel, contest rules and entry forms are available on the Hillsborough County Fair website at: www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com.

Entries are also being accepted for the Fair’s annual Youth Plant Show. Students will compete in junior youth and senior youth categories and are eligible to enter up to 10 individual plants and two plant groupings. Competition classes include

bonsai, bromeliads, cacti & succulents, ferns, flowering plants, foliage plants, orchids, palms, vegetables & herbs and special groupings. All entries will be judged on the modern Danish system with blue ribbons receiving $8.00, reds $6.00, whites $4.00 and Best in Show winners $25.00. Top plants will also be sold at the auction and revenues will go to the exhibitor.

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By Brad Buck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

grocery store

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

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

ABOUT UF/IFAS

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

ifas.ufl.edu | @UF_IFAS

WHY FOOD IS OUR MIDDLE NAME

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

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

GROWING LETTUCE IN NON-TRADITIONAL AREAS OF FLORIDA

BY JESSE MURRAY

Field of lettuce grown at the Everglades Agricultural Area in south Florida in Palm Beach County

Each year, U.S. farmers produce enough lettuce to feed everyone in the country.

Up to 73% of U.S. lettuce comes from California producers and is distributed nationwide through extensive retail chains. Lettuce grown in Florida accounts for 3% of the national total, and has a unique market window during the winter months. Traditionally, Florida lettuce has been grown between October and April in the rich muck soils of the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA), just south of Lake Okeechobee. Recent advances in technology and changes in consumer preferences have seen the Florida lettuce industry expand into emerging production systems, with at least 240 operations occurring in controlled environments such as greenhouse hydroponic systems.

Researchers with the University of Florida Lettuce Breeding Program at the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences are working to help growers deliver high-quality lettuce when growing in these systems. Professor Germán Sandoya and Ph.D. candidate Jesse Murray lead the research.

“Consumers in growing urban areas such as Miami, Tampa, Orlando and Jacksonville may increasingly become attracted to vegetables produced near their ‘backyard’, which might be purchased in fresher conditions that maintain the appearance and nutritional value”, explains Murray.

“Our goal is to provide traditional and new types of lettuce varieties better adapted to the unique conditions across the state of Florida,” said Sandoya.

Some important issues they’re working on improving are tolerance to hotter temperatures, and maintaining postharvest storage quality and nutritional content.

“During the last few decades, the Florida lettuce season has been constricted by about a month due to increased temperatures at the beginning and end of the winter growing season,” explained Sandoya. “Lettuce is a cool-season crop and may develop physical defects when grown in heat such as tipburn and bolting, making the crop unmarketable. It is also important to understand which lettuce varieties can store better after harvest, and what practices should be implemented to help reduce food waste in these newer growing systems.”

Investigating nutritional quality is of particular interest to Murray.

“My research is focused on understanding the vitamin and nutritional content of lettuce grown in Florida.” Lettuce types such as romaine, butterhead, leaf, and baby leaf can be a valuable source of vitamins A, C, K, and folate, as well as minerals and

A selection of lettuce varieties and breeding materials are being evaluated for characteristics desired by the lettuce industry in hydroponic greenhouse and sandy soils, such as good yield and absence of heat-related defects when grown under ideal winter and warmer temperatures of early fall and late spring. Results from this study may help the lettuce industry identify best management practices, and inform lettuce breeders how to develop improved cultivars, for growing lettuce in different systems in Florida.

Anyone interested in learning more about Florida lettuce production can visit the UF-IFAS Extension Publication website or research the UF Lettuce Breeding Program.

FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD

NEW RESOURCE AVAILABLE TO CONNECT PRODUCERS WITH FARM PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AG CAREER DAY PARTICIPANTS LEARN OF DIVERSE AG CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND VARIED PATHS

By Jim Frankowiak

Thirty 4-H members from throughout central Florida participated in the recent Work Ready Florida Career Day. The participants visited the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory (TAL), IF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC), the Plant City plant of Saputo and G & F Farms in Dover.

The day-long program was led by Chris DeCubellis, PhD., Florida 4-H Specialized Agent, Dairy/Animal Science. Florida agriculture generates two million jobs and supports more than $253 billion annually. “Consequently, making young Floridians aware of the various careers available in the industry along with how to pursue those careers are important considerations,” said Dr. Decubellis. “Both were well-addressed during the day’s activities,” he said.

In addition to funding the career day, Work Ready Florida also underwrites an ongoing program for any Florida teenager to participate in a virtual 4-H club where they will prepare for Agriculture Education Services & Technology, Inc. (AEST) certifications. Career Day funding also came from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the National 4-H Council sponsored by Saputo.

AEST Certifications, a Florida Farm Bureau subsidiary, provides agricultural industry certifications to prepare Florida residents for careers in various facets of Florida agriculture. “In year one, club members will prepare for general agriculture certifications,” said DeCubellis. “In year two, those initial members will select and prepare for a specialty certification.” More information and registration are available at https:// florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/youth/4-h-clubs/virtual-clubs/workready-florida.

During their visit to the Ruskin-based Tropical Aquaculture Lab, Career Day participants learned about the lab’s programs supporting tropical fish farming in Florida, the heart

of which is in the Tampa Bay region. Industry-driven applied research, extension outreach programs, and teaching future aquaculture leaders comprise the mission of the TAL.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture was the focus of the group’s visit to the GCREC which develops and disseminates new scientific knowledge and technology that assists Florida’s producers to be competitive, both nationally and in the world economy with traditional and alternative crops. It is located on a 475-acre site at Balm and is staffed by 20 scientists and more than 200 employees. The GCREC will soon be the home of an Applied AI Center.

The departmental managers of the Plant City facility of Saputo, a global manufacturer of dairy products, described their daily responsibilities to tour participants along with the skills they look for from those seeking careers at their company. The company was initially formed in Montreal, Quebec, Canada by the Saputo family after they relocated from their home in Sicily. It has since grown globally and now has an international presence. The Plant City operation was acquired in 2017 with 77 employees and now employs more than 300. It is principally engaged in the manufacture of private-label products.

Among the areas of responsibility discussed by Saputo department heads were health and safety, quality assurance, production, warehousing, maintenance, human resources, and environmental sustainability. “Of added interest was the career paths of these managers,” noted Dr. DeCubellis. “Few began their careers with a clear path into agriculture or related fields, but they all came to realize their futures were in the industry.”

G & F Farms, a Dover strawberry farm established in 1889, was the final stop for the tour. The farm is partnered with Reiter Affiliated Companies (RAC), the largest berry grower in the world. Sarah Williams, a regional manager for Reiter with

both in-office and in-field responsibilities, discussed her varied responsibilities in support of Reiter, as well as her educational background.

Florida Department of Food and Consumer Services (FDACS) Regional Director Ellen Cruz, whose career path followed agricultural positions once she received her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida in Agricultural Communications and Education, urged attendees to recognize the importance of developing relationships as they follow their career paths. As an FDACS regional director, Cruz serves constituents in nine counties. She began her career with Florida Farm Bureau Federation as a district representative.

Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) Agriculture Program Manager Jeff Whealton reviewed his responsibilities working with producers to help assure their compliance with District regulations, as well as opportunities for state and federal program assistance opportunities.

Alex Lorenca and Haley Stockton, food safety representatives for Driscoll’s Eastern Region, which includes everything east of the Mississippi River from Canada to Florida, discussed the ways they work with growers to assure food safety regulations are met, along with social compliance for workers. Driscoll’s is primarily a marketer of berries worldwide.

Samantha Williamson-Bryant, Driscoll’s East Coast Material Planner, shared her responsibilities with attendees, which are primarily office-based and run the gamut from materials purchasing to transportation logistics, both domestically and globally. Williamson-Bryant joined the agricultural industry after working for a number of years in hospitality. Both she and her sister, Sarah Williams, are daughters of Michelle Williamson, Operations Manager for G & F Farms, and all are members of the farm’s founding family. Williamson was responsible for organizing the final Career Day stop and recruiting the varied presenters.

Florida Farm Bureau District Representative Lauren Philipps urged attendees to learn about and take advantage of various internships available within the agricultural industry as a way to find the position that best fits their individual skills and goals. She noted that she began her Farm Bureau career working within the member benefits area and became aware of her current post through relationships she had developed with her Farm Bureau colleagues.

“Ag Career Day was a valuable experience for participants,” said Dr. DeCubellis. “They not only learned about the diverse opportunities available within the industry but how to take advantage of them and progress, both educationally and personally. There is no one specific way to enter and grow within the industry, but many variables such as our AEST program, building relationships, and educational options. I appreciate the time our speakers devoted to this event and the financial support we received.”

Recipes

Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Florida Beef Vegetable and Pasta Casserole

Chef Justin Timineri

Ingredients q q

1 pound Florida lean ground beef

1 pint Florida mushrooms, slice thin

1 Florida zucchini, medium dice

1 Florida squash, medium dice

1 pound pasta (your favorite)

2 garlic cloves, chopped fine

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped fine

1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped fine

PREPARATION

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

Remove from heat and set aside.

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

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

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup milk

½ stick unsalted butter

½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded

1 teaspoon oil, for cooking

1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning (your favorite)

Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

Florida Spinach and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms

Ingredients q q

1-pound Florida mushrooms

4 cups fresh Florida spinach

5 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

½ onion, diced fine

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

6 ounces cream cheese,

PREPARATION

softened to room temperature

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Oil, for cooking

Pinch of red pepper flakes

Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

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

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

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

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

OLD ANTIQUE BLUE STOVE

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

DOORS & WINDOWS SPECIAL ORDER

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

KITCHEN CABINETS & VANITIES

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

JOBS

MECHANIC NEEDED

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

PARTS COUNTER HELP

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

LAWN EQUIPMENT/ SUPPLIES

USED HUSQVARNA

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

$995.00 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

USED ZERO TURN

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

WANTED

WANTED OLD FISHING TACKLE

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

MISC.

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

24 HOUR SERVICE

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

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE

We have you covered! Call us today. 813-752-5577

ALAN’S AIR CONDITIONING

Residential, Commercial Sales SVS & Repair. Legendary service for over 20 years! 813-752-0821

SHOWER STALLS - FIBERGLASS

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

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