Central Florida Ag News May 2022

www.FloridaAgNews.com

vol 12 | issue 11 | may 2022

Women in Ag edition

The Voice of Agriculture for Our Region

SOWING SEEDS FOR THE FUTURE

JESSICA ANDERSON PAVES THE WAY FOR TEACHERS, STUDENTS

TAKING TEXAS

BY STORM

POLK TEEN WINS GRAND CHAMPION BULL IN HOUSTON

INFLATION NATION

YOUTH IN AG

LAURA TAYLOR SPARKS NEW OPPORTUNITIES

ALFIE OAKES EXPLAINS TOLL OF SOARING PRICES

EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS FROM THE AG DEPUTY LUNCHEON, PCCA SHOW AND RODEO

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CONTENTS | m a y 2 0 2 2 www.Flo

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On the Cover

vol 12 |

issue 11

| may

2022

Women in Ag edit

The Voice

of Agric

ews.com

ulture fo

r Our Re

gion

SOWIN G SEED FOR S JESSICA THE FUTU RE WAY FO ANDERSON PA R

io

n TAKIN Polk County

BY STOG TEXAS RM Cattlemen’s INFL ATI O YOUTH N NATIO Sweetheart N IN AG Peyton Chandley carries the flag at the Trade Show and Rodeo in Bartow on May 7. This edition honors the contributions of women in agriculture. photo by MICHAEL WILSON TEACHE

VE RS, STUDS THE ENTS

POLK TE EN WIN CHAMPIO S N BULL GRAND IN HOUS TO

LAURA TA NEW OP YLOR SPARKS PORTUN ITIES

EXCLUS IVE PH AG DE OTOS FR PU SHOW TY LUNCHEONOM THE AND RO , PCCA DEO

PRES PRSR ORT T STD STD U.S. US POST Posta ge AGE PAI PAIDD Perm TAMP it No. A, FL 335 PERM Lake IT #2118 land , Fl.

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CFAN |

10

1

TAKING TEXAS BY STORM

Polk County’s Payge Dupre, 17, stole the spotlight when she and her bull won Grand Champion Bull at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in Texas.

12

INFLATION NATION

14

FRESH OPPORTUNITY

Farmer Alfie Oakes explains inflation’s impact on the industry, why it’s happening, and what needs to be done.

Identifying a gap in opportunities for Polk County children in ag, Laura Taylor decided to do something about it. Enter Central Florida Youth in Agriculture.

22 SOWING SEEDS FOR THE FUTURE

Jessica Anderson did not grow up on a working farm with parents who were producers — but you’d never know it.

Departments EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS! AG Deputy Luncheon: Page 24 PCCA Show and 4 | CFAN Rodeo : Page 20-21

5 7 9 16 20

Publisher’s Letter President’s Letter Signs of the Season Angle’s Letter AgriShopper

26 28 31 34 38

Recipe Spotlight In the Heartland Classifieds Calendar Editor’s Last Word

Props graciously provided by J&J Tack Shack in Lakeland photo by MICHAEL WILSON FloridaAgNews.com

N

PUBLISHER LETTER

Let’s Hear It for the Women THIS PAST WEEKEND, the country went into full “Mom Mode,” myself included. It’s always an important time to take a moment to appreciate the women in our lives who work tirelessly to make sure we have the necessities and then some. Mothers, wives, sisters, and even furmoms work hard every day of the year, so Sunday was for them. I celebrated with my bride, Dot, and my mother-in-law, Joan. Both are excellent examples of outstanding women and mothers, and both are near and dear to my heart.

In this Women in Agriculture edition, we’re building on that sentiment in honor of some remarkable individuals in the field. While these pages can’t possibly attempt to honor each and every deserving woman in the field, we hope to raise awareness of the momentous contributions of some women who are undeniably instrumental to the industry.

Inside, you can learn more about: • Jessica Anderson, who is helping to create pathways for students and educators to meet the demands of an ever-changing industry; • L aura Taylor, who identified a need for youngsters and, along with her husband, took action to address it through the creation of Central Florida Youth in Agriculture; • Danielle Daum, who has dedicated her life to teaching outside the classroom and is perhaps best known for her work with Highlands County Ag-Venture; and • Payge Dupre, a Polk County teen who recently rocked the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo when she won Grand Champion Bull.

This is also the time of year for graduations!

We’d like to sincerely congratulate all the ag

NELSON KIRKLAN D, Publish nelson@c er entralflori damediag roup.com

graduates in our area who are just beginning their journey. We know they will make us proud! ag

Bamboo’s Viability as a Commercial Crop in Florida CITRUS • New greening-tolerant rootstocks and varieties now available • Largest screened commercial citrus nursery in the US • DNA tested true-to-type citrus varieties and rootstocks available • Now contracting for 2022-2023

PEACHES • Licensed grower of low chill peaches on Flordaguard and MP-29 rootstocks • Low chill varieties ideal for central and south Florida climates • Licensed for new released varieties • Now contracting for 2022-2023

Florida is well known for the diversity of its agricultural offerings and alternative crop opportunities for growers. Bamboo might just be the next alternative crop to be added to Florida’s ever-growing list of commercial crops. There are many reasons to consider growing bamboo in The Sunshine State.

While no crop is perfect, bamboo does have many attributes that make it an attractive commercial crop for growers in Florida. They include:

Bamboo is in High Demand

Bamboo farming generated 72 billion dollars in 2019 worldwide. The US is the largest importer of bamboo, and China is the world's largest exporter. That demand for bamboo in the US Match Florida’s Tropical Climate could be met by Florida growers.

Bamboo is native to just about every area with a Bamboo can be used for thousands of different tropical and temperate climate, from India and Asia products, making it a valuable and in-demand to Australia, South and Central America, and Africa.

by Phillip Rucks crop. It is an important material in construction as a There are over 1,000 species of bamboo, and many natural composite material with a high bamboo species are well-matched to Florida’s tropical climate. However, like any plant, different species of bamboo will strength-to-weight ratio and a strength rating similar to have different needs when it comes to climate and cold timber made from a strong softwood or hardwood. Bamboo hardiness. We (Phillip Rucks Citrus Nursery) have a two year old can be found everywhere in a building, from uses in the evaluation block studying different varieties, spacing, ground structure to flooring, furniture, paper industry, textile, bio-energy, and in the food industry. covers, herbicides, and source of propagated plant material.

The high demand for bamboo coupled with its low risk as a It's Low Maintenance crop makes it an attractive up-and-comer in Florida agriculTraditionally, bamboo has a tolerance for poor soil and few ture. Bamboo can be a drop-in crop for citrus in requiring the input needs beyond fertilizer and irrigation. There are currently same plant density and irrigation application lessening cost to no pests, fungi, or diseases in Florida that would require insecti- convert to another crop. cides or fungicide treatments for a bamboo crop.

Join us on Thursday, May 26th at 10 a.m. for the Farm Grants and Alternative Crops Forum located at 1710 US Hwy 17 S. It’s Environmentally Friendly Bartow, FL at the Stuart Center. For registration, visit Bamboo grows at a fast pace, with some species able to Eventbrite.com.

PHILLIP RUCKS CITRUS NURSERY, INC. Phillip Rucks, Owner

FloridaAgNews.com

grow one foot a day. Because it grows so quickly, bamboo is considered to be a more sustainable crop than even timber. It is also touted as an important crop in carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation.

EUCALYPTUS WINDBREAKS

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863-635-1948 •info@rucksnursery.com P.O. Box 1318 Frostproof, FL 33843 • www.ruckscitrusnursery.com www.floridagrownspecialties.com

CFAN | 5

Columns 5

BAMBOO’S VIABILITY AS A COMMERCIAL CROP IN FLORIDA

Florida is well known for the diversity of its agricultural offerings and alternative crop opportunities for growers. In fact, bamboo might just be the next alternative crop to be added to Florida’s ever-growing list of commercial crops.

There are many reasons to consider growing bamboo in The Sunshine State. Phillip Rucks explains that while no crop is perfect, bamboo does have many attributes that make it an attractive commercial crop for growers in Florida.

11

PREVENTION IS KEY FOR COMMON CATTLE AILMENTS

No matter how closely ranchers monitor their herds, their cattle will take ill at some point. Baxter Troutman discusses bloat, pink eye, and scours, along with the early signs that ranchers can watch for to ensure a timely intervention.

13 IS LATEST RESEARCH A GREENING GAME-CHANGER?

The Florida citrus industry could use a game-changer in the fight against citrus greening, and it may get it with the research being done by UF/IFAS Professor of Microbiology and Cell Science, Nian Wang. Wang’s latest research suggests that citrus greening is a pathogen-triggered immune disease, which could bring about new possibilities in managing the disease.

16 EDGING OUR WAY BACK TOWARD ‘NORMAL’

Believe it or not, things at Adams Cold Storage aren’t going that bad. It’s probably that way in a lot of your businesses, too. Ben Adams of Adams Cold Storage explains that it’s not like things are normal — if “normal” is defined as pre-pandemic — but there are faint echoes of what once was hanging in the air.

However, even when things aren’t half bad, he can still see difficulties all around the edges of his industry.

18 HOW CAN I TELL IF MY HORSE IS IN PAIN?

Horses are creatures of habit and routine. Their personalities are consistent in a lot of situations and their behavior is key to catching illness or injury in the early stages. Horses may not be able to verbally express that something is wrong, but a change in appetite or movement, or a recent change in personality may indicate that something is wrong.

30 MUSK BRINGS THE CORRECTION

Auctioneer Marty Higgenbotham delves into Elon Musk’s purchase of Twitter to protect free speech and the correction he anticipates the move will bring for the country. He also discusses the hot market for farmland, with prices in the $10,000to-$15,000 range per acre.

New Office

1350 E. Main Street, Building A, Suite 4, Bartow

863-533-0561 • www.PCFB.org • Facebook.com/PolkCountyFarm Bureau 6 | CFAN

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Polk Polk County County Farm Farm Bureau Bureau Protecting & Promoting Protecting & Promoting Polk Agriculture since 1942 Polk Agriculture since 1942 www.pcfb.org www.pcfb.org

Phone: Phone: 863.533.0561 863.533.0561

Member Member Services Services

p r e s i d e n t ’s c o l u m n

Carole McKenzie Carole McKenzie Executive Director Executive Director

Lori Kuehl Lori Kuehl Program Coordinator Program Coordinator

2021-2022 2021-2022 Board Board of of Directors Directors

Leigh Ann Wynn Larry Black Leigh Ann Wynn Larry Black President Charles Counter President Charles Counter DeVane Michael Matteson Kenny DeVane Michael Matteson Kenny Leslie W. Dunson, III Vice-President Leslie W. Dunson, III Vice-President Dean T. Evans Dean Evans Dean T. Evans Dean Evans Ellis Hunt, Jr. Past President Ellis Hunt, Jr. Past President Scarlett Jackson Scarlett Jackson Corby Myers Jack James, Jr. Corby Myers Jack James, Jr. Treasurer Nelson Kirkland Treasurer Nelson Kirkland Lanier Christian P. Spinosa Daniel Christian P. Spinosa Daniel Lanier Ed Lassiter Secretary Ed Lassiter Secretary David Lawson, Jr. Brett Costine David Lawson, Jr. Brett Costine Kyle R. Story YF&R Chair Kyle R. Story YF&R Chair Matt Story Matt Story Scarlett Jackson John W. Strang Scarlett Jackson John W. Strang Women’s Kevin M. Updike Women’s Kevin M. Updike Committee Chair Committee Chair Keith Walter Keith Walter

Location Location

1350 East Main Street 1350 East Main Street Building A, Ste. 4 Building A, Ste. 4 Bartow, FL 33830 Bartow, FL 33830

Offi Office ce Hours Hours

Monday-Friday Monday-Friday 9 9 a.m. a.m. to to 5 5 p.m. p.m.

Jimmy Jimmy Williams Williams Agency Agency Manager Manager

Bartow Bartow Offi Office ce Agents Agents Phone: 863.533.0561 Phone: 863.533.0561 James James L. L. Moser, Moser, Jr. Jr. Jimmy Jimmy Williams Williams

Haines Haines City City Offi Office ce Agent Agent 203 203 S S Dixie Dixie Drive Drive Phone: Phone: 863.421.4545 863.421.4545 Rhonda Rhonda Ambrose Ambrose Winter Winter Haven Haven Offi Office ce Agents Agents 3039 Cypress Gardens 3039 Cypress Gardens Road Road Phone: Phone: 863.299.3892 863.299.3892 Barry Barry Walker Walker Jason Jason Yates Yates

Greetings!

We have moved! Our Bartow office has relocated from its longtime location. The address of the new location is 1350 East Main Street • Building A, Ste. 4 • Bartow, FL 33830 The new mailing address is P.O. Box 838, Bartow, FL 33831. The phone number of 863-533-0561 of course remains the same. We are planning to hold an open house event for members on Friday, October 14 from 1 – 4 p.m., and members will receive an invitation to the event. Please call Carole McKenzie or Jimmy Williams at 863-522-0561 if you have any questions related to the move.

We recently held our Legislative Wrap-Up Luncheon where we heard an overview of Florida Farm Bureau’s legislative priorities throughout the 2022 session and enjoyed great dialog with members of our Polk Legislative Delegation. We are blessed in Polk agriculture to enjoy relationships with our delegation members that allow for the effective exchange of ideas. Our thanks to all who attended and participated in this annual event. A special thanks to Legislative Wrap-Up sponsors Central Florida Development Council, The Mosaic Company, and Warner University.

Our Harvest Celebration fundraising dinner event is back! We held the first Harvest event since 2019 on May 13 at the Barn-on-the-Lake in Fort Meade. A great time was had by all at what was the 25th occasion of the event. The proceeds from this event benefit Polk County Farm Bureau’s agriculture education objectives and help us protect and promote farmer and rancher businesses in Polk County.

Our very special thanks to the following 2022 Harvest Celebration sponsors and supporters: Ag America Lending • Ben Hill Griffin, Inc. • Camp Margaritaville Auburndale Carden & Associates • Central Florida Development Council • Central Florida Media Group Citizens Bank and Trust • Crosby & Associates • Cutrale Citrus Juices USA • Doug Elmore Dunson Harvesting, Inc. • Dyer Chevrolet • Farm Credit Central Florida Grape Hammock Fish Camp • Lightsey Cattle Company • Mann Lake Bee and Ag Supply The Mosaic Company • Myers Groves • Polk County Farm Bureau Insurance Agents Polk County Schools Workforce Education • Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd Polk County Sheriff ’s Office Agriculture Deputies • Precision Citrus Hedging and Topping Peace River Packing Company • Jim Rash, Inc. • The Story Companies Warner University We greatly appreciate everyone’s support!

Sincerely,

Calling Calling from from Lake Lake Wales Wales 863.676.3187 863.676.3187

FloridaAgNews.com

LEIGH ANN WYNN President, Polk County Farm Bureau CFAN | 7

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The Voice of Agriculture for Our Region

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56 Fourth Street Northwest, Suite 100 Winter Haven, Florida PHONE (863) 248-7537 Copyright © 2022 Central Florida Media Group. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This issue of Florida AgNews is a trademark of Central Florida Media Group. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this magazine without written permission is prohibited. Florida AgNews makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of content published. In the event of an error found herein, however, neither the publishers nor advertisers will be held responsible, nor do the publishers accept any liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers in advertising and promotional materials.

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SIGNS OF THE SEASON FLORIDA POULTRY OPERATIONS HELP DRIVE THE ECONOMY

Raising backyard chickens has become a popular trend throughout the country in recent years, and for good reason. Having a handy supply of fresh eggs for your household is convenient, and with the recent increase in the price of eggs at the grocery store, raising your own chickens can save you some money, too – as long as you can keep your flock healthy and uninfected.

THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF EGGS AND POULTRY IN FLORIDA Poultry is defined as fowl that are domesticated and raised for their meat and/or eggs for human consumption. This includes chickens, turkeys, geese, ducks, quail, and guinea. Commercially, poultry is an important part of Florida’s economy.

Though we aren’t among the nation’s top producers of eggs or broiler chickens (as of 2018 we ranked 17th in the U.S. for egg production), Florida poultry farms generate close to $400 million in sales each year.

Currently, Florida is home to more than 78 million broiler chickens, and more than 11 million egg layers. More than 4,700 people are employed directly by the commercial poultry industry in the Sunshine State, and another 29,000 jobs are generated by the industry in supplier and ancillary services.

In 2020, Florida’s poultry industry generated a good $8.16 billion in economic activity throughout the state. As many as 34,000 or more total jobs were created or supported by poultry farms. Tax revenue contributed to government

coffers by the industry and its employees was an estimated $241 million in federal taxes, and $146 million in state and local taxes. those swaths of land that remain open to native plant communities. All three types of land can be used for grazing cattle and will still support a high degree of biodiversity of native species.

Sensitive wetlands also benefit from management by cattle ranchers. In any well-managed pasture, fertilizer use is low and not a significant source of detrimental nutrient runoff. Even in improved pastures that are highly managed, the amount of fertilizer applied per acre is less than that used on other agricultural crops or urban landscapes. The cattle perpetuate the nutrient cycle by consuming the fertilized forage and then depositing those nutrients back into the landscape through their waste, thereby decreasing the need to fertilize those lands.

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FEATURE | y o u t h

Taking Texas by storm Polk County Teen Wins Grand Champion Bull at Houston Show

A

by TERESA SCHIFFER

AMID A SEA OF WELL-ESTABLISHED COMPETITORS, a Polk County teen stole the spotlight when she and her bull won Grand Champion Bull at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in Texas recently.

In the hectic world of livestock showing, Houston is where the biggest and brightest come to make their mark. Exhibitors came from across the U.S. to show animals they’ve raised at the competition, billed as the world’s largest event of its kind.

This year, Payge Dupre and her mother, Melissa Nichols, took a chance on showing an elegantly aging bull in the Houston show. It was a move that paid off with a shocking win that Nichols says is “pretty much like winning the Super Bowl.”

Dupre, a junior at Lake Gibson High School in Lakeland, has spent her life surrounded by livestock and people who raise animals to show and sell. This has instilled in Dupre a deep appre10 | CFAN

ciation for agriculture and an affinity for working with livestock. At age 5, she started showing cattle herself.

At school, 17-year-old Dupre is a member of the Agriculture Biotechnology program. She also serves as the 2022-23 FFA Chapter President. She says agriculture has been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. Her interest in livestock was piqued when as a young child she accompanied her mother to a ranch as she worked.

Then her older brothers began showing market hogs and breeding heifers, further heightening her interest in working with animals.

“I have learned many valuable life skills by raising and showing cattle,” Dupre says. “I have learned to be responsible, manage my time wise-

ly, and I have grown out of my shell within this industry. Getting to go out and meet new people at different shows gives me many connections that will be useful to me at some point in my life, if they haven’t already.”

Dupre’s family has been involved in raising Brangus cattle for years. The breed is a cross between Brahman and Angus cattle that was developed about 1932. It is a highly desirable breed because the Brangus exhibits many superior traits of each parent breed, such as the general hardiness of the Brahman and the exceptional meat quality derived from the Angus.

In 2013, a new derivative of the Brangus breed was officially recognized by the International Brangus Breeders Association, the Ultrablack®.

The Ultrablack® is further breeding of Angus and Brangus cattle that results in an animal that must have between 50 and 87.5 Brangus genetics while the rest consist of registered Angus lineage.

FloridaAgNews.com

PREVENTION IS KEY FOR COMMON CATTLE AILMENTS NO MATTER HOW CLOSELY ranchers monitor their herds, their cattle will take ill at some point. Here are a few common cattle conditions and the early signs that ranchers can watch for to ensure timely intervention.

Bloat is a buildup of gas in a cow’s digestive system.

While this may not sound too serious, it could mean the death of the animal within an hour due to restricted breathing and heart failure. Bloat is typically caused by grazing lush, low-fiber forage (such as immature legume pastures like alfalfa or clover), especially when covered in morning dew. Feeding cattle on hay or feed before allowing them to graze in particularly lush fields can help prevent bloat. Warning signs include a distended rumen (particularly on the left side), frequent excretion, bellowing, and staggering. If you see these signs, force the animal to walk to induce belching. Dose with mineral or vegetable oil to break up foamy bubbles, or your vet may need to use a trocar as a last resort.

Nichols explains how her family responded to this development in the evolution of Brangus cattle, “You can breed an Angus bull to a Brangus cow, or a Brangus bull to an Angus cow, and you get a thing called Ultrablack®. We felt like the future of the industry was the Ultrablack®. So we decided to go out and start playing with the Angus side of stuff. After you get that calf and breed it back to Angus, and then you get that calf and breed it back to Brangus, and then you get first-generation Brangus, which is otherwise not obtainable anymore.”

Dupre was eager to start breeding Ultrablacks®, and as luck would have it, she and her mother were able to acquire a phenomenal bull for the teen to work with through a partnership with another local rancher who was initially looking to sell the animal at a steep price. The bull was a bit older though, with just one year left to qualify for show.

Nichols and her daughter made the most of that year, showing the proud beast, which competes under the name Seldom Rest Splash 9054 but is affectionately known by Dupre as “Big Poppa,” at a number of local shows.

March 25, 2022, was the Ultrablack® bull’s date of aging out of the show world for good, so Nichols and Payge headed to Houston to see how he’d do at the biggest livestock show in the U.S. FloridaAgNews.com

They were hopeful but kept their expectations low as they traveled to Houston with Big Poppa. Simply winning in his class would improve the odds of marketing the bull’s semen after he aged out of showing. The size of the barn at the Houston fair alone was breathtakingly impressive, and the two never expected to bring home a major victory, especially with Dupre being a mere high school student from Florida and not a member of a long-established ranching family from Texas or Oklahoma.

“He went in and won his class, he won his division, and then he didn’t even come back out because he was the oldest one. Keep in mind, he only had three more weeks of showing until he aged out,” Nichols explains.

“Then she’s in there, in the final drive, and the judge walked from the back to the front, then he walked back and got the mic, and as soon as he started talking he slapped her right then.

It was an amazing moment.”

Dupre was flabbergasted by her win, while her mother was overwhelmed with pride.

Dupre and her mother would like to thank Justin Grace and J.D. Porter, their partners in this venture. Without them, this high school girl would have missed the experience of a lifetime. But that’s what Florida agriculturalists do best – support and encourage younger generations to achieve their goals. ag

Pink eye, or Infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK), is one of the most common diseases in beef cattle. This contagious infection spreads from animal to animal, often by flies or tall grasses that rub the eyes. In the early stages, look for tearing and light sensitivity; as the infection progresses, the animal will tend to eat less and seek shade more. You may also see a small white spot in the center of the cornea, while the rest of the eye may appear cloudy. Preventive steps ranchers can take include controlling flies, keeping grasses shorter than eye level, and isolating new animals for a few weeks, as some animals may carry the infection without showing symptoms.

Scours is diarrhea caused by viruses, parasites, or bacteria, most common in young calves. Scours is most common within the first 15 days of life. The loss of both water and electrolytes can cause weight loss, depression, and weakness, which may cause a calf to become too weak to nurse. Without treatment, calves can die in as little as 24 hours. If a calf develops scours, isolate that calf and administer replacement fluids and electrolytes. Preventive measures include keeping vaccinations up to date and keeping calving areas clean.

by BAXTER TROUTMAN This column is sponsored by Labor Solutions, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Baxter Troutman is founder and chief executive officer of Labor Solutions, a staffing company with offices in Bartow, Winter Haven, Lake Wales, Arcadia, and Plant City. You also can visit his Dark Hammock Legacy Ranch online at www.

DH-LR.com. A cattle rancher and citrus grower who served in the Florida House of Representatives, Troutman understands the challenges and concerns of today’s farmer.

CFAN | 11

FEATURE | c u r r e n t e v e n t s

Inflation Nation

Naples Farmer Alfie Oakes Talks About the Toll of Rising Prices

by PAUL CATALA

W

WHEN ALFIE OAKES WAS 15, he began selling tomatoes and watermelon from the back of a pickup at a Cape Coral bridge. By the time he was 18, he had opened his first retail market. By the age of 19, he had begun farming.

Thirty-eight years later, Oakes, 53, is now the founder and CEO of Oakes Farms, a Naples-based agribusiness that produces, packages, distributes, and sells fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products.

After nearly four decades in the agriculture business, Oakes has gone on to become a successful Naples grocer who, in addition to owning the 3,200-acre Oakes Farms, owns Seed to Table Market, Oakes Farms Market, and Food & Thought 2 restaurant and market, all in Naples.

With his nearly four decades in the agriculture business, the outspoken Oakes has taken to print, the internet, and the airwaves lamenting the United States’ current rate of inflation, its impact on the farm industry, why it’s happening, and what needs to be done to curb it.

Speaking from Naples, Oakes – who has become known for his efforts of protecting individual liberty, limited government, and the free 12 | CFAN

market system – blames inflation partly on a “clear manipulation on farm input products via people that want a globalist new world order.”

To that end, Oakes says 63 percent of U.S. publicly owned corporations are controlled by only about five different investment groups that are manipulating input costs such as direct materials, direct labor, and factory overhead.

That ends up putting additional cost burdens on farmers.

At the employee-owned Oakes Farms, for example, Oakes says he uses three rolls of plastic mulch per acre on the farm of the state’s biggest vegetable grower. When he was at 3,200 acres, that meant 10,000 rolls at $85 per roll in 2021.

That cost is now $120 per roll.

“Next season, it should be the same price based on barrel price. But it’s $270 per roll – a 350 percent increase,” he says.

“There’s no logic behind it. Also, wood prices

are up but not 300 percent, but tomato stakes are up 300 percent. Companies are being bought out and controlled by a manipulated market.”

Oakes says farm input costs such as seeds are up 50 percent, and fertilizer is up 100 percent; other input costs include fuel, plastics, labor and spray material, and all are up 500 percent from what they were in 1985.

“The simplest thing I can tell you in layman’s terms is that my input costs to grow my farm every year for the last four or five years have been about $40 million to $42 million. With the current increase of all the farm input costs for the next season, it’s going to be $17 million higher,” he says.

“There’s not one farm input cost that hasn’t gone up in weeks that are more than regular inflation. Farm input costs are up 200 to 300 percent.”

Oakes calls his farm a “vertically integrated company” with an annual $43 million investment and each year he allocates to make a $3 million loss.

“That sounds bizarre to the average person,” FloridaAgNews.com

IS THE LATEST RESEARCH A GREENING GAME-CHANGER?

THE FLORIDA CITRUS INDUSTRY could use a “gamechanger” in the fight against citrus greening, and they may get it with the research being done by UF/IFAS Professor of Microbiology and Cell Science, Nian Wang. Wang’s latest research suggests that citrus greening is a pathogen-triggered immune disease, which could bring about new possibilities in managing the disease.

What is a Pathogen-Triggered Immune Disease?

A pathogen-triggered immune disease is when a pathogen like a virus, bacteria, or parasite invades an organism and causes an immune response that damages that organism. While not yet seen in the plant world, pathogen-triggered immune diseases are common in humans, such as when an infection causes a person’s fever to go so high that it causes brain damage or organ failure. Essentially, the citrus greening symptoms that debilitate a citrus tree are caused by the tree’s own immune response to the infection.

Citrus Greening as a Pathogen-Triggered Immune Disease

he says. “The only reason it’s not bizarre is I need the product. I sell to prominent chain stores that like to buy American products.

Even if I’m losing some, I still come out and make money in the big picture. But hardly anyone wants to take that kind of risk.”

Oakes adds that out of the past 15 years that he’s farmed collectively, he’s been at “an enormous loss,” citing three out of 15 years that he made money.

“No one can lose millions and millions every year. So, unfortunately, the American consumer is going to see input costs in Quarter 4 of this year like they’ve never seen before. That just has to do with the inflation in the country,” says Oakes.

In addition to inflation, Oakes said competition with Mexican farms — many of which are run by drug cartels, he says — has helped fuel growth in those farms, which now dominate the market for vegetables. He asserts with the billions of dollars in drugs coming into the U.S. on produce trucks, there’s not much concern about farms losing money.

As far as the future of Florida farming, Oakes doesn’t see a big problem with shortages, but he does see an extreme spike in prices. He said although crop production has been good, U.S. farmers fighting the influx of cheap Mexican produce are forced to lower their prices. The more food that is FloridaAgNews.com

sold for less than what it costs to grow, the more a farm loses.

“It’s really sad what’s happening all across the country when it pertains to food inflation. But more myopically, in Florida and South Florida, where we compete with Mexico, it’s been bad,” he says.

As for the future Florida farming market and rising production costs, Oakes says the lower middle-class households will be affected the most.

“Do I think as a result of this the people in Naples are going to be starving to death?

I don’t think so. But we’re going to see food costs like we’ve never seen before.”

Oakes, who’s been outspoken about his political ideologies, says the conclusions he makes are based on his experience and what he’s heard from other farmers. He plans to continue farming, saying he’s never had to lay off employees and will transition to less acreage, producing more diversified farm products such as sauces, ketchup, mustard, and other condiments. He’ll also be adding direct marketing.

“It’s tough times; I wish I could find something positive about Florida farming, but it’s hard. But keep in mind, we’re going to take care of our own,” he concludes. “I’ll never retire. I’ll go out swinging; I love what I’m doing.” ag

When the Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) bacteria that cause citrus greening enter a citrus tree’s phloem tissue, the infection stimulates systemic and chronic immune responses. These responses include the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This “chronic and excessive ROS production” causes systemic cell death of phloem tissues, which in turn shows up as the symptoms of citrus greening that cause declining tree health, loss of fruit production, and eventual tree death.

Wang’s research included testing growth hormones that counteract the effects of ROS, namely gibberellin acid and the antioxidant uric acid, to prove the pathogen-triggered immune disease hypothesis. Both of these growth hormones halted or reduced cell death, showing that citrus greening is possibly a pathogen-triggered immune disease.

Wang’s research also identified the RBOHD gene that is responsible for producing ROS in response to CLas infection in citrus trees. Researchers could utilize this information to edit the gene using CRISPR technology, silence genes like RBOHD that lead to ROS production and cell death, and more.

Wang maintained that the new research could lead to new options for combating citrus greening and mitigating ROS, such as: • Integrated horticultural measures, such as GA and using optimized fertilization and micronutrients.

• Genetic improvements of citrus varieties with antioxidant enzymes.

• Generating non-transgenic HLB resistant/tolerant citrus varieties by editing key genes required for CLas-triggered ROS production • Using CTV-mediated expression of antioxidant enzymes and silencing of key genes required for CLas-trigby MIKE ROBERTS gered ROS production This column is sponsored by Griffin Fertilizer Co., and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Mike Roberts is the Vice President of the Frostproof, Florida-based Griffin Fertilizer Co. Roberts joined the company in November 2011. He has spent the majority of his career in the fertilizer/agchem industry. Roberts earned a Bachelor of Science degree in citrus production from Florida Southern College in Lakeland. For more information, visit griffinfertilizer.com.

CFAN | 13

FEATURE | p e o p l e

The Woman Behind Central Florida Youth in Agriculture Laura Taylor Recognized a Need That She and Her Husband Knew They Could Fill

by TERESA SCHIFFER

F

FOR DECADES, KIDS IN POLK COUNTY interested in agriculture had just one venue for showing their livestock and other products, and that was the Polk County Youth Fair. A group of local agriculturalists, led by Laura Taylor, decided to do something about this.

Polk County native Laura Taylor grew up in North Lakeland. Her family has a long history of involvement with agriculture. In the early 1980s, they raised Beefmaster cattle in the Kathleen area of North Lakeland, then moved on to the Brangus breed in the 1990s. Taylor got involved with the International Junior Brangus Breeders Asso-

14 | CFAN

ciation, and in 1998 was elected president of the organization. In 2015, they began working with the Ultrablack® Brangus breed.

After graduating from Kathleen High School, Taylor attended the University of Florida in Gainesville where she studied public relations and marketing, with a minor in business and an

outside concentration in animal science.

In time, like many others, Taylor became frustrated with the slow movement on updating the Bartow Agriculture Center where the Polk County Youth Fair has been held since 1947. Though Polk County is one of the state’s top cattle producers, the Agriculture Center is significantly smaller than those of neighboring counties.

In February of 2020, Taylor and her husband called together a group of friends to discuss the prospect of establishing a new opportunity for young agriculturalists in Polk County to participate in the process of showing and marketing FloridaAgNews.com

livestock. The Central Florida Youth in Agriculture was thus conceived as a forum for area young people to showcase and sell their own cattle and swine.

Central Florida Youth in Agriculture, or CFYIA, is not a “fair” by Florida’s official guidelines, as it does not offer the fuller scope of categories that would include aspects like horticulture, family and consumer sciences, or other special activities. It is strictly an exhibition and sale of livestock similar in nature to the Junior Cattlemen’s series.

“For our sale, the exhibitor has the choice whether they want to sell their animal or not, so it’s a non-terminal sell,” Taylor explains. “That does create a few things that we have to do from the Florida Department of Agriculture, like if a pig is over 6 months old, they have to be bred.”

Though entrants may exhibit more than one animal, they must decide upon entry on one specific animal to offer for sale, if they choose to sell.

They may enter an animal as a breeder to show and not sell it. So an exhibitor would be allowed to show both a hog and a steer, but they would only be able to sell one of those. A commission of no more than 5 percent is charged for all animals entered in the sale. Those funds go to CFYIA. The students who enter this show acquire their livestock without formal assistance from CFYIA, though they are encouraged to reach out to any member of the Board of Directors if they need assistance. The organization does offer opportunities for educating the participants on different aspects of raising and showing livestock.

“We had different clinics during the show on things like showmanship and nutrition. That way they can take part and learn at the event in addition to just showing,” Taylor says. “We wanted to make an educational aspect, and we’re going to do more of that in the future.”

Though their inaugural fair was held in 2021, there was some concern over participation due to the ongoing COVID situation, but this year’s show proved to be an excellent draw. There were 239 exhibitors registered for this year’s event with a total of 515 entries, all from Polk County. Due to space restrictions, the swine entries were limited to no more than 150. There were 29 steer entries in the cattle division.

The goal of the CFYIA program is to be as inclusive as possible to students wishing to be involved. The minimum age requirement is that the child be at least five years old and in kindergarten in order to show a hog, or eight years old to show cattle. The participants must have a tie to Polk County, either by living or attending school in the county. There is no requisite participation in any specific agricultural program outside of CFYIA. Moving forward, Taylor continues to refine the vision of CFYIA as an agriculture education organization in addition to an opportunity for youth to show and market animals. She has received outstanding encouragement from those in the local ag community and is hoping to garner the cooperation of area schools to offer various educational opportunities.

“The goal is to have some workshops, whether it’s on showmanship, feeding, nutrition, so members will have access to education and resources,” Taylor says. “We’ve had a tremendous amount of support.”

CFYIA is off to a great start and is sure to make a lasting, positive impression on the youth and community of Polk County. ag FloridaAgNews.com

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CFAN | 15

EDGING OUR WAY BACK TOWARD ‘NORMAL’ BELIEVE IT OR NOT, things at Adams Cold Storage aren’t going that bad. It’s probably that way in a lot of your businesses, too.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not like things are normal — if we’re defining “normal” as prepandemic — but there are faint echoes of what once was hanging in the air. However, even when things aren’t half bad, I can still see difficulties all around the edges of our industry, and I’m sure you can, too.

Here’s an example. Our customers are beginning to receive and ship goods at a pretty regular rate these days. Our state-of-the-art facility has been running either at capacity or near capacity for the past month or so. That’s good for us. It’s also a sign that our client partners are starting to move products. That’s good for them.

But here’s where it gets complicated. If being at this level of capacity would happen at any other time, there would be two things happening.

First, we would consider expanding. Our facility has room to expand, and we would typically be exploring that option. Second, some of our client partners would be growing and expanding enough to build their own cold storage facilities to meet their specific needs and to cut down on their costs.

That’s just the normal cycle in our industries — at some point, many of our customers grow large enough to leave.

However, even though the climate seems right for expansion on paper, it just can’t happen. There are still material shortages all through the supply chain; it takes longer than ever to get the supplies to build. Also, interest rates are not conducive to large expansions, particularly when you consider that the average cost to build cold storage facilities is $170+ per square foot.

So while things aren’t going that bad, the next step still seems a couple of miles away.

The key, of course, is to enjoy these faint echoes for what they are: signs that things are warming up. A step has been taken. And even though a next step isn’t likely for now, it’s still closer than it’s been in a long while.

FROM THE DESK OF

Dr. Angle

Scott Angle is the University of Florida’s Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS).

J. Scott Angle jangle@ufl.edu @IFAS_VP

Women of Wedgworth DURING THE TWO YEARS Leigh Ann Wynn spent in the Wedgworth Leadership Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources, she changed jobs, changed careers, adopted a son, joined the Polk County Farm Bureau board and became chair of the UF/IFAS Extension Polk County advisory committee.

Coincidence? I’m not saying Wedgworth alone transformed her. But it put her through a great deal of self-reflection, learning about herself so she could learn how to serve (and lead) others.

Wynn herself describes it as a domino effect.

Wedgworth prompted her to reflect through exercises like writing a letter to her five-years-older self. After she made one big decision to change her life, the rest seemed to follow in rapid succession.

She’s now helping students at Warner University in Lake Wales find their place in the agricultural community and the wider world.

Casey Simmons Runkles wanted nothing to do with the family farm. She fled—to business school, and then to a middle school teaching job. By her own account, she wasn’t very politically minded.

As she nears the end of her Wedgworth immersion into how to be an ag and natural resources leader, she’s director of financial operations and food safety for that family farm, E.W. Simmons Farms Inc., in Plant City, and she’s considering running for office one day.

And she has lots more female leader friends,

such as Wedgworth alumna Sue Harrell of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association. She also has a tight bond with the female leader who stitches together a network that’s a who’s who of Florida agriculture, Christy Chiarelli.

Chiarelli is Wedgworth’s director. Wedgworth is not a single-gender program, but for this Women in Ag edition of Central Florida Ag News, I highlight it so that the next Wynn and Simmons Runkles and Chiarelli will seek nominations to enter the program next year.

Wedgworth celebrates 30 years of programming in 2022, and Simmons Runkles and her Class XI peers graduate in July. Applications will open in late spring 2023. Male applicants are welcome, too!

For more information about the program, contact Chiarelli at ccw@ufl.edu.

The alumni I meet (and the social gatherings Chiarelli organizes are the ultimate networking environments for folks like me who are relative newcomers to Florida) all say the same thing: Wedgworth changed their life.

Each one of the 300 alumni has a different version of how it changed his or her life. There are some commonalities, though. They got to know themselves better. They made more than two dozen close friends with whom they went through two years of multi-day sessions around Florida, team-building exercises, and national and international trips. They inherited a network of CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

by BEN ADAMS, JR. This column is sponsored by Adams Cold Storage, LLC, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Ben Adams, Jr. is an owner and president of Adams Cold Storage, LLC, in Auburndale. He has been directly involved in citrus production, warehousing and distribution, as well as state and community support, since 1980. His facility incorporates some 250,000 square feet of multitemperature warehousing, and is AA rated by BRCGS.

16 | CFAN

Leigh Ann Wynn

Casey Simmons Runkles

FloridaAgNews.com

FloridaAgNews.com

CFAN | 17

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY HORSE IS IN PAIN?

HORSES ARE CREATURES OF HABIT and routine.

Their personalities are consistent in a lot of situations and their behavior is key to catching illness or injury in the early stages. Horses may not be able to verbally express that something is wrong, but a change in appetite or movement, or a recent change in personality may indicate that something is wrong.

Daily care allows you to become familiar with your horse’s routine behavior and with how they react at feeding time, during turnout, or while being exercised.

Any change in normal behavior can be a cause for concern and may be due to pain. Subtle changes such as being moody or not enjoying grooming are two common changes. More obvious changes can be a usually friendly/curious horse standing quietly in the back of their stall with closed eyes or a decrease in appetite or willingness to walk.

The most obvious change in behavior that gets noticed is extreme, such as going off their feed, violently rolling, pawing, and getting up and down in rapid succession, all signs that are often seen with colic. Clinical signs of pain that you might notice just by watching your horse are muscle tremors, hunched posture, and grinding teeth. Weight loss can even be an indicator of chronic pain, particularly in a horse that is exclusively on pasture and for which feed intake may not be closely monitored.

As a veterinarian, I have been told that a horse is lame but not in pain. This isn’t true, any abnormality of your horse’s gait should be considered indicative of pain until proven otherwise. Mechanical lameness is pretty uncommon in horses, so if you notice your horse lying down more than usual, shifting its weight, or moving abnormally, then you should have it examined by your veterinarian.

Horses can’t tell us when they are in pain, so it is our responsibility to be observant and closely monitor their behavior for any changes. In doing so, problems can be addressed quickly and your horse can maintain a painfree and happy life.

by DR. KATIE HENNESSY This column is sponsored by Polk Equine, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Dr. Katie Hennessy graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 with a degree in large animal health and equine medicine. She completed an advanced internship at The Equine Medical Center of Ocala and is currently the owner and practicing veterinarian at Polk Equine. Her expertise ranges from small and exotic creatures to large animals, specializing in equine medicine.

18 | CFAN

AGRISHOPPER SHOPPER

Why Eat Watermelon the Same, Old Way?

by GRACE HIRDES

Watermelons scream summer like no other fruit. No matter how it’s sliced, there’s nothing like biting into a sweet one on a hot summer day. While there’s no exact right way to cut watermelon, there are many when you might not want to cut it into the traditional wedges. Here are our top five picks for watermelon slices with a creative edge this summer.

1. WATERMELON STICKS

After choosing a watermelon, stick it in the fridge and let it chill. Once cut, a cold watermelon retains its shape more so than a room temperature watermelon. After it’s chilled, your first step is going to be to slice your watermelon in half longways. Flip one of the halves upside down on your cutting board so the pink side is down. Next, carefully slice the watermelon, from top-down, into 1-inch slices. Then keeping the slices lined up, carefully slice the watermelon into 1-inch cubes in the opposite direction. Lastly, remove the chunks to reveal beautifully chiseled watermelon sticks.

2. T HE PERFECT WATERMELON BOWL

Are you hosting a party this summer, and looking to get the most use of the space you have? This method of cutting allows you to fill your bowl to the max. You’ll want to start cutting your large watermelon in half. It has been recommended to make small cuts all the way around the rind and then “snapping” the melon in half. Next, place it cut-side down on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to remove the rind. After the rind is removed, slice it evenly the same way you would a loaf of bread. Next, rotate the cutting board 90°, and slice it again. Lastly, place a large bowl upside down over the cut watermelon, then flip the entire bowl over and you’ll have the perfect bowl of watermelon.

3. WATERMELON NAME SKEWERS

For this watermelon cutting technique, you’ll need a watermelon, alphabet cookie cutters, berries and other fruit for garnishing the ends, and skewers You really want the watermelon to be firm so be sure to avoid fruit that’s too ripe, otherwise it will just tear and you won’t get a clean cut. You’ll start by cutting the melon into

slices 1/4- to ½-inch thick. Reviews say that if you cut the fruit closer to 1/2 inch, it seems to hold up better. Next, get out your skewers and place them nearby as they will come in handy when you are pushing out your letters.

Once you have those on hand, let the cutting begin. For best results, place the cookie cutter flat on the cut fruit and press down using a flat palm. Next, use your skewers to gently push the fruit out the back of the cookie cutters.

Once they are all cut, press them gently onto the skewers and enjoy.

If you make them ahead of time, chill them in the fridge but DO NOT freeze.

After being frozen, they defrost very fast and become pretty messy!

4. WATERMELON ICE

Begin by cutting the watermelon into small cubes and laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet and placing them in the freezer. Once frozen, you can store them in a freezer bag. When ready to use, fill a glass with the frozen watermelon chunks and pour your favorite beverage over the chucks to enjoy a nice, refreshing summer drink. These chunks work best with regular water, soda water, lemon-lime soda, or lemonade.

5. WATERMELON ON A STICK

Slice your watermelon in half longways.

Flip one of the halves pink side down on the cutting board, then carefully slice the watermelon into 1-inch slices from top down.

Next, lay the slices on their side and cut them in the traditional triangular shape. Finally, stick a popsicle stick through the rind and ta-da you have watermelon on a stick. This is a great treat for those young ones in your family.

As you prepare for those hot summer days, be sure to use some of these creative designs and enjoy your watermelon no matter how it’s sliced.

FloridaAgNews.com

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CFAN | 19

community Zooming in on agriculture in your community.

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association

ROD EO A N D T RADE SHOW | MAY 7 | BARTOW photos by MICHAEL WILSON

20 | CFAN

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CFAN | 21

FEATURE | e d i t i o n

Sowing Seeds for the Future Jessica Anderson Helps to Create Avenues for Teachers, Students

by PAMELA PALONGUE

U

UNLIKE MANY PEOPLE who choose a career in the field of agriculture, Jessica Anderson did not grow up on a working farm with parents who were producers — but you’d never know it. The insight, knowledge, and expertise she brings to the table create opportunities for teachers and students across the county.

Anderson is an ag educator and administrator. The Polk County Farm Bureau named her “Outstanding Teacher of the Year” in 2017 for her ability to connect with students and to convey the importance of agriculture and related professions in today’s world. Since 2019, she has worked in an important administrative role as the teacher resource specialist for Polk County Schools for public service, fire, criminal justice, industrial arts, and agriculture.

School played an important role in plotting her future career decisions. She became involved in 4H and then went through an ag program in high school. It was while participating in this program that she fell in love with the field of agriculture.

“I started out in veterinary science but later changed to agriculture education,” she says. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Florida and began her teaching career at Westwood Middle School in Winter Haven.

When she began teaching at Westwood in 2010, she was the first female ag teacher the school had ever had. Now, in 2022, Anderson has seen a definite uptick in female educators 22 | CFAN

in agriculture.

This mirrors a national trend of women becoming more involved in agriculture in general. In looking at women in production, in 2012, women made up about 30% of all farmers who were principal operators, according to the USDA. In 2019, the Census of Agriculture reported that 36% of farmers were women, with 56% of all farms having at least one female decision-maker.

Anderson went on to become the lead teacher of veterinary science at George Jenkins High School in Lakeland, the same school where she developed a love for agricultural sciences. She left the classroom in 2019 to accept her current position as teacher resource specialist for Polk County Public Schools. Her firsthand experience as a teacher has given her a good perspective on what teachers need to help prepare their students for their future careers.

Anderson has worked with Scarlett Jackson, the Director of Admissions at Warner University, to try to develop guidelines and support for teachers that bridge the gap between ag education and skills that are needed in the ag

industry and related fields.

“Our goal is to enhance the education we provide to students so that they’re prepared when they leave school,” she explains. They’re meeting again this summer with teachers and ag industry professionals to find the best way to develop an educational foundation for students.

Anderson also works closely with Dr. Debra Barry, a professor of ag education at the University of Florida where Anderson meets with juniors and seniors in ag education. Additionally, she sits on the board of the Farm Bureau FloridaAgNews.com

and is an advisor to the Polk County Future Farmers of America Association.

All of her work is geared toward ensuring that teachers and students have the resources they need to navigate the modern needs of agriculture for not only those students who will become producers but also for the many students who will go on to have ancillary careers in agriculture.

“Florida is the third-largest employer of ag jobs in the country. The majority of those jobs

are not producers, but downstream careers,” says Anderson.

Agriculture touches on a wide variety of professions that support the industry — the scientists who develop better fertilizers to increase production, individuals who work in communications, the marketing experts who promote the commodities, and technologists who develop programs to help farms run more efficiently to name only a few.

Making students aware of the breadth of

agriculture is important to Anderson. It’s not always about growing food. In Florida in particular, there is a great need for landscapers and horticulturists, forestry management, beekeepers, and those who are links in the supply chain for the industry.

Familiar with the daily warnings of looming food shortages, Anderson is adamant about hammering home one point in particular: “Buy local, buy specifically from Florida.” ag

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community Zooming in on agriculture in your community.

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Recipe Spotlight These Desserts Turn a Nice Peach Naughty

S

by CAROL CORLEY

SOME FOODS FEEL LIKE A GIFT from Heaven. Peaches fall in that category. If you get to eat one during peak ripeness, the taste is delicate and sweet.

The secret to getting the best peaches is to find them when they are picked ripe from the tree. They will feel a bit soft and give off a sweet aroma. Hard and without smell means it needs a bit longer on the tree.

Once you get your peaches home, handle them gently so you don’t bruise them.

Spanish monks can be thanked for introducing peaches to the St. Augustine area in the mid-1500s, although the fruit has been around since 1000 BCE, according to genetic studies.

In Florida, the peach season runs from April to June, so it’s time to think of what to do with this popular fruit.

Let’s start with dessert. ag

26 | CFAN

BOURBON PEACH PIE

(Adapted from delish.com)

Ingredients Prepared crust, or make your own Peaches, 3 pounds Bourbon, 3-1/2 tablespoons Sugar, 1/2 cup with half granulated and half-packed brown Cornstarch, 3 tablespoons

Ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon each, ground and mixed Zest of 1 lemon Salt, pinch Melted butter to brush top of crust Turbinado sugar to sprinkle on top

Directions Prepare pie crust as the package directs. Peel peaches as desired and slice into half-inch slices then place in a bowl. Add all ingredients except butter and turbinado sugar. Toss to coat peaches. On bottom prepared pie crust, place peaches and arrange evenly, pour in juices, and place prepared crust top over the pie. Trim about a 1/2” overhang, then pinch edges together. Cut small slits, brush top with melted butter and sprinkle with turbinado sugar. Place the pie pan on a large sheet tray and bake in the oven preheated to 425F for 20 minutes then decrease the oven to 375F and continue baking until the crust is deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling, about another 45 minutes. Cool pie before slicing.

PEACH PRALINE UPSIDE DOWN CAKE

(Adapted from tasteofhome.com)

Ingredients Peaches, 2 cups peeled and sliced Eggs, 4 large, separated Butter, 1/4 cup cubed plus 2 tablespoons melted Sugar, 2/3 cup packed brown, 1 cup white sugar Pecans, 1/2 cup chopped Cake flour, 1 cup Baking powder, 1 teaspoon Salt, 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon, 3/4 teaspoon ground Ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground Milk of choice, 1/4 cup Vanilla, 1-1/4 teaspoon pure extract Whipped cream optional Toasted pecan halves optional

Directions Allow egg whites to stand in a bowl at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in an ovenproof skillet, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, cinnamon and ginger, then remove from heat. Place peach slices in an attractive arrangement in a single layer over the brown sugar mixture in the pan, top with chopped pecans.

Mix together flour, baking powder and salt, in a separate bowl beat egg yolks until thickened slightly, add sugar beating with an electric mixer on high speed until thick. Beat in milk, melted butter and vanilla. Fold into flour mixture.

In a separate bowl with clean beaters, beat egg whites until stiff but not dry then gradually fold into batter and pour all into the skillet.

Bake in the oven preheated to 375F for about 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 15 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate, and serve warm with whipped cream and pecan halves.

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PEACH-LAVENDER COBBLER

(Adapted from foodandwine.com) Ingredients

Filling: Peaches, 4-1/4 pounds freestone peaches peeled, pitted, and diced Instant tapioca, 2-1/2 tablespoons Sugar, 1/3 cup Lemon, 1/2 teaspoon fresh juice Salt, 1/2 teaspoon Topping: Flour, 1 cup all-purpose Baking powder, 1 tablespoon Rolled oats, 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons Sugar, 1/4 cup white plus 2 tablespoons turbinado Salt, 1-1/4 teaspoons Lemon, 1 zest finely grated Lavender, 1 teaspoon dried blossoms Butter, 5 tablespoons unsalted Buttermilk, 1/4 cup Heavy cream, 3/4 cup Directions Mix filling ingredients and place in a 9x13-inch baking dish.

In a separate bowl, grind lavender to a powder and combine with flour, oats, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt and lemon zest. Cut butter to the consistency of coarse meal, add 1/2 cup of cream then the buttermilk, stir until dough is moist.

Form mounds of the topping mix and arrange evenly over the peach filling mix. Brush with the remaining heavy cream and bake in an oven preheated to 400F until bubbly and the topping is golden brown, about 50 minutes. Let cool to warm before serving.

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In The Heartland

Highlands County

Danielle Daum, Supporting the Ag Industry Through Education

by ANNABEL ROCHA

D

DANIELLE DAUM HOLDS MANY TITLES, but at the core of her identity, she is two things: a farmer and a leader.

“I love the people. I love what it represents. I love that it is vital to everyone’s daily life,” she says.

“It’s in my blood, you could say.”

Daum is a third-generation farmer who runs

Danielle Daum

28 | CFAN

Happiness Farms in Lake Placid with her family.

The caladium and citrus operation was founded more than 50 years ago by her grandfather, Paul Phypers Sr., and now encompasses more than 200 acres. She says that since Highlands County and Lake Placid are the caladium capital of the world, these plants have always been a part of her daily life.

“We farmed caladiums from the time I was born,” she explains. “My mom was working in the business till the day she had me … didn’t even realize she was having labor pains. I grew up in it, helping at the farm as much as you do as a child, pulling weeds in the caladium fields, packing bulbs on the weekend and after school,” she said.

Her current focus is to ensure a viable business and that Happiness can sustain operations with challenges like the cost of fertilizer doubling and citrus greening disrupting the groves.

“Right now with citrus greening, this is something that just might break the industry,” she says. “We’ve been dealing with it long enough that it’s done severe damage to growth, and researchers

haven’t come up with a solution to help us stay alive. We do a lot of praying,” she says.

Issues like this are why Daum spends much of her free time working on committees such as Congressman Greg Steube’s Ag Advisory Committee and the FSA County Operating Committee, among others. She hasn’t lost hope in the future of the industry and believes that education is key in helping others realize the importance of agriculture. Her work with Highlands County Ag-Venture, a program that teaches third-graders different aspects of farming, is especially important to her.

“Our hope is that we’re gonna catch them young, we’re gonna educate them, make them aware so that they pay attention for the rest of their lives and so that they become wise voters, good parents, and good business people who truly understand the value of agriculture,” she says.

Teaching comes naturally to Daum, who holds a degree in education. She doesn’t work in a school, but the farm is her classroom. She hosts farm tours and loves showing customers from all around the CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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MUSK BRINGS THE CORRECTION JUST WHEN YOU THINK the train is off the track for good, America begins to correct itself.

We are so blessed to have the conveniences of the internet and social media, the wonderful experience of instantly communicating with family, and business associates, and sharing our thoughts and ideas with others.

Then, after a few years, we discovered that this wonderful social media was not only changing our comments but in many cases shadowbanning our message entirely because it didn’t fit their ideology. In other words, they became the dictator. We watched with disbelief how they took control of the news feeds in America.

My personal belief is they were responsible for the outcome of the most corrupt election we have ever had!

Now comes the correction that could only happen in America!

One man, Elon Musk, writes a check for $44 billion and buys Twitter to protect free speech. Money, I might add, that he earned. So perhaps we can have a free exchange of ideas without interference from the dictatorial staff going forward. In other words, he wants to play by the rules America was founded on that are based on free and open debate.

The reaction of the Twitter staff says it all — they are beside themselves.

They are no longer going to be able to put out their left-wing ideas or continue the perpetuation of criminal activity, disrespect of law enforcement, and the list goes on.

We can all be thankful for what ELON MUSK HAS DONE TO PUT US BACK ON TRACK. We are hopeful his promises of free speech are realized. I can’t wait to see how all of this comes out.

But I digress. I need to get back to our topic, and that is the sale of real estate at auction. We will be selling a number of properties across America this summer, so keep an eye on our website: higgenbotham.com.

I just talked to one of our out-of-state associates, and he says the farmland market is still crazy, with prices in the $10,000-to$15,000 range per acre. Farms that have never been sold in the last century are being sold.

If you have real estate for sale, give us a call! We will do the work, answer your questions, and get you top dollar with no commission charge to the seller. My recommendation is if you have real estate and are considering selling, now is the time to pull the trigger!

Tomorrow is not guaranteed, nor is today!

See you at the auction.

Danielle Daum continued from page 28

country how to care for their crops. She recalled the enthusiasm brought by a garden club that recently toured from the West Coast, saying, “We spent two hours talking about caladiums, and I think we could have talked for another hour. I enjoy talking about it as much as people enjoy learning about it.”

Daum works hard to share information with other farmers, as well. She is the Highlands County Farm Bureau Secretary and sits on the Florida Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors.

“What I love most about my volunteer service in these organizations and committees is sharing my passion for the ag industry with like-minded people and having the opportunity to make a difference for my fellow farmers.

Farmers are thoughtful, kind-hearted, down-to-earth, and giving people who want the best for our environment, land, friends, and neighbors,” she said.

There are a lot of unknown factors that go into her work. Daum says that some years the caladium fields are plentiful and other years Mother Nature is not as kind, even though the same amount of care and nurturing went into preparing the crop.

“My daddy always says I don’t have to go to Vegas to gamble, I do it every day in agriculture,” she said.

Her operational work at Happiness, along with her many other duties, keeps her on her toes. She says that she was once the “T-ball mom” and “softball mom” to her children Laine and Lydia, but they’re now both adults, giving her more time to attend agriculture meetings and events.

“Honestly, agriculture is my hobby, and the things that I do for Farm Bureau, for Ag in the Classroom, and with my Ag-Venture program… those are the things that make me happy.” ag

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by MARTY HIGGENBOTHAM This column is sponsored by Higgenbotham Auctioneers International, Ltd., and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Marty Higgenbotham, founder and president of Higgenbotham Auctioneers International, Ltd., has conducted approximately 12,000 auctions, selling everything from cemetery lots to shopping centers and everything in between. He graduated from Reisch Auction College in 1959. Since then, he has sold in 49 states and five foreign countries.

Clients include Wal-Mart, Albertson, Sinclair, AutoZone, HUD, and the states of Kansas, Missouri, Texas and Florida, to name a few. He lives with his wife in Lakeland.

30 | CFAN

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(888) 748-7464 • CatRentalStore.com _______________________________________ • Irrigation Services of Central Florida Ag irrigation is our specialty, Jimmy Durden, Irrigation Specialist - (863) 875-5722. _______________________________________ Farm Bureau Insurance Offices Throughout Central Florida!

24/7 Claims Reporting Toll Free (866) 275-7322 floridafarmbureau.com _______________________________________ Garrison Property Services We’re the Key to Making Life Easy for You! Real Estate, Lawn Care, Pest Control, and more! 863-439-6550 GarrisonPropertyServices.com _______________________________________ AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT - Lake & Pond Maintenance - Permitting - Re-Vegetation Manual & Mechanical Removal (863) 412-1919 • waterweed1@aol.com _______________________________________ ADVANTAGE HEDGING & TOPPING We care for citrus, peach avocado, mango trees and more. Hedging, mowing, topping, trimming right of ways, heavy equipment transport. 863-557-0424

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CONCEALED CARRY GUN SAFETY COURSES -starting at just $40.00 per person. Call (863) 655-1010 to register for the next class. Tell ‘em AgNews sent ya.

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Top Dollar, CASH | 863-655-1010 Stromberg’s Chicks & Game Birds Order Early! Chick Days 800-720-1134 ChickDaysFlorida.com _______________________________________

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Email tripsonmt@aol.com Call/text 772-473-1714 Ask for Mark Tripson

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ______________________________________________________________ My Payroll Solutions LLC has over 20 years of experience in matching small businesses, Agriculture Companies and harvesters to staffing services and employee leasing companies, which provide payroll services with workers comp coverage and assistance with H2A applications for our clients. For more information contact Jeff H Futch at 863-835-1130.

HIRING!

Ag News magazine is looking for a creative, outgoing, and organized person to represent our brand and our suite of advertising products. If you love the rural lifestyle and the ag community and are a charming and/or persuasive salesperson who could sell sawdust to a lumber mill, we want to meet you. We’re looking for someone with integrity who truly cares about their customers.

If that’s you, please send an introductory letter and your resume to Nelson@CentralFloridaMediaGroup.com

Larry’s Camellias OVER 240 VARIETIES

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CFAN | 31

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32 | CFAN

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M AY — J U N E 2022 C A L E N DA R MAY 7, 14, 21, 28, JUNE 4, 11, 18, 25 SATURDAY NIGHT RODEO

This fun, family-friendly rodeo takes place every Saturday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, located at 3200 River Ranch Blvd in River Ranch. Enjoy the antics of cowpokes and bronco busters as they show off their skills trick riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, and more.

Kids are invited into the rodeo arena toward the end of the night to participate in a real “calf scramble.”

Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 5 – 12, and children ages 4 and under are free. For more information, please visit www.westgateresorts.com.

MAY 12 – 15 • CENTRAL FLORIDA HUNTER JUMPER ASSOCIATION

Spectators can watch this equestrian show for free at Bob Thomas Equestrian Center, located at 4800 US Hwy 301 N in Tampa, taking place from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. CFHJA is dedicated to fostering the breeding, use, and showing of hunters and jumpers. If you are interested in joining this organization, please visit their website at www.cfhja.com.

MAY 14 • ROCK FOR PAWS

Come rock out with Smokepoint as they play classic and contemporary pop and rock hits! This is a benefit for SPCA Florida’s Emergency Response Team, which is dedicated to providing necessary care for animals in need throughout Polk County and surrounding areas. The party will take place at Nora Mayo Hall, located at 500 3rd St NW in Winter Haven from 7 – 10 p.m. Tickets start at $2 and can be purchased online by visiting www.spcaflorida.org/rock-forpaws.

MAY 14 AND 28, JUNE 11 AND 25 DOWNTOWN FARMER’S MARKET IN LAKE WALES

The Lake Wales Downtown Farmer’s Market is sponsored by Lake Wales Main Street and takes place every second and fourth Saturday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 20 N Market St in Lake Wales. This producer-only market specializes in locally grown, pesticide-free produce and plants, baked goods, local honey, Florida grove pepper sauces, cheeses, award-winning BBQ sauces and rubs, homemade jams and jellies, natural pet treats, plus a ton of crafts, clothing, and jewelry. For more information, you can contact Lynn Greenfield at (863) 676-8782 or visit www.lwmainstreet.com/farmers-market.

34 | CFAN

MAY 21 • ARMED FORCES DAY IN THE GARDENS

Bok Tower Gardens, located at 1151 Tower Blvd in Lake Wales, is offering free admission for all military veterans and active-duty members of the armed forces who bring their valid ID. The Gardens are open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. You can learn more about this historic sanctuary at www.boktowergardens.org.

MAY 28 • DOWNTOWN LAKELAND FARMERS CURB MARKET

This vibrant, eclectic market brings the community together every Saturday in Downtown Lakeland with fresh, local produce, live plants, and a variety of hot foods and handcrafted wares. It is located on the 200 block of N Kentucky Ave in Lakeland from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. every Saturday (except in August) and is a production of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). Learn more at www. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org.

MAY 31 • LUNCH & LEARN: BASICS OF FERTILIZER IN THE LAWN AND LANDSCAPE

JUNE 4 • RIBBON CUTTING FOR JOHN MCGEE PARK

The Cypress Youth Sports Complex is officially transitioning to John McGee Park. Take part in the change at 10 a.m. at the site that includes a delightful new car-themed playground, located at 2399 S Edgewood Dr in Lakeland. For more information on this and other local events taking place this summer, you can visit www.business.lakelandchamber.com/ events/calendar/2022-06-01.

JUNE 4 BLAZING BASS CHALLENGE

This is the second fishing festival in the Bonfire Festival & Tournament Series held at Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort, located at 14900 Camp Mack Rd in Lake Wales. Register to participate in the fishing tournament or just check it out as a spectator, and attend the Bonfire Party the preceding evening (Friday) to enjoy the customary lighting of the Blazing Bass Sculpture. Get more information on this festive fishing tournament online at www.guyharveycampmack.com/bonfire/.

JUNE 9 • PUPS & PINTS

UF/IFAS Extension Polk County and Haines City Water Utilities join together to present this in-person class instructing when and how to properly fertilizer your lawn, garden, and landscape. A boxed lunch will be provided and registration is required. The class will be held from 12 – 1 p.m. at Haines City Library, 111 N 6th St in Haines City. Register at www. fertilizeappropriatelymay2022.eventbrite.com.

Every second Thursday of the month you can take your favorite canine with you to enjoy a large selection of beer and enter a raffle to win a gift basket. Sponsored by Orchid Springs Animal Hospital and held at Union Taproom, located at 245 W Central Ave #102 in Winter Haven, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Call (863) 268-4921 for more information.

JUNE 3 – 5 • GUY HARVEY OUTPOST PHOTO ACADEMY

JUNE 11 • CONSERVATION FLORIDA BIOBLITZ: ROCK SPRINGS RUN STATE RESERVE

Calling all shutterbugs! Explore the exquisite landscape of Lake Kissimmee while preserving fantastic memories photographically. The exciting weekend includes a photo editing lesson on Sunday.

The adventure takes place at Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Hodge, Marina & RV Resort located at 14900 Camp Mack Rd in Lake Wales. This opportunity is only open to 12 people, so reserve your spot now!

Learn more by visiting www.visitcentralflorida.org/ events/guy-harvey-outpost-photo-academy/.

Discover Florida’s natural and wild beauty at the 14,000-acre reserve from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. An expert guide will lead participants as they find, identify, and record various plants, animals, microbes, fungi, and other organisms to create a thorough profile of the area’s biodiversity. Open to all, the free event takes place at Rock Springs Run State Reserve, located at 30601 County Rd 433 in Sorrento. Find more information at www.conservationfla.org/events.

FloridaAgNews.com

There When You Need Us!

Polk Equine provides large animal veterinary services within parts of Polk, Highlands and Hardee Counties in Florida. Polk Equine works with horses, cattle, goats and sheep. Our primary task is to solve our client’s animal medical problems by maintaining the highest standards in veterinary medicine.

Polk Equine is a mobile unit that provides services in:

General Medicine & After Hours Care Lameness • Reproduction Digital X-Rays Dr. Katie Hennessy, DVM Dr.Hennessy@polkequine.com Ophthalmology Dentistry

Call Us Today! We Come to You! Polk Equine services 24 hour emergency calls for clients. Normal business hours are: Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Sign up

for a FREE On-Farm Readiness Review The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule (PSR) inspections have begun. Sign up now to request a free On-Farm Readiness Review (OFRR), offered in partnership by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and University of Florida IFAS. The OFRR is an educational opportunity to help individual farms align practices with the PSR regulatory requirements in preparation for inspections.

For more information on FSMA and to sign up for an OFRR, visit FDACS.gov/FSMA or call (863) 578-1900.

To take full advantage of the OFRR and for PSR compliance, one farm representative should first attend a Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training. Upcoming trainings can be found at: crec.ifas. ufl.edu/extension/events

This publication is supported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award U2FFD007446 totaling $1,179,719 with 100 percent funded by FDA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by FDA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

FloridaAgNews.com

CFAN | 35

R E N

A F F

R O C

Polk Gears Up for State Convention, Welcomes New Officers

by JESSICA ANDERSON

A

AS THE SCHOOL YEAR COMES TO A CLOSE, FFA members are excited as they inch closer and closer to the Florida FFA State Convention and Expo that will take place in Orlando from June 13 through the 17. For many, the convention is a time when students are awarded hard-earned plaques and recognition for a job well done. For others, it is a time when they finally get to compete in the state finals for career and leadership development events.

Polk county has several students advancing from the district level to the state finals, where they will give their all for one final shot to be crowned champion. FFA members and schools are listed below, and we will be cheering them on and eagerly awaiting results.

Opening and Closing Ceremonies- Frostproof Middle Creed Speaking- Clayton Keene, Lake Wales Prepared Public Speaking- McKenzie Woodruff, Dundee Ridge Middle School and Reanna Brown, Haines City High School Extemporaneous Speaking- Elizabeth Young, McLaughlin Middle and Dustina Garcia, Haines City High School Parliamentary Procedure- Bartow Middle School and George Jenkins High School The State FFA Degree is the highest degree that the State FFA Association can bestow on a member. This degree is awarded annually at the State FFA Convention to those members who have met the minimum qualifications set forth by the National FFA Organization. Polk County is proud to have several students receiving this honor at the Florida FFA Convention in June.

The following students will be recognized at the fifth general session on Thursday, June 16.

• Mykaela Billingsley, Auburndale • Philip Shaske, Auburndale • Tiffany Beam, Bartow • Robert Belcher, Bartow • Olivia Foreman, Bartow • Abigail Parmer, Bartow • Karson Russell, Bartow • Katherine Stokes, Bartow • Jaden Ewing, Frostproof 36 | CFAN

• Gracy Johnson, Fort Meade • Hannah Jones, Fort Meade • Madison Shiver, Fort Meade • Allyson Keim, George Jenkins • Chloe Lynn, George Jenkins • Katelynn Monahan, George Jenkins • Kailey Monahan, George Jenkins • Taija Santos, George Jenkins • Sarah Dierker, Haines City • Alexia Trujillo, Haines City • Ashley Kelley, Kathleen • Kiara Kelly, Kathleen • Donald Stubbs, Kathleen • Sylvia Summerlin, Kathleen • Payge Dupre, Lake Gibson • Caleb Fletcher, Lake Gibson • Haylee Blankenship, Lake Wales • Keon Booker, Lake Wales • Austin Brooks, Lake Wales • Chloe Peterson, Lake Wales • Corbin Sullins, Lake Wales • Jacob Welch, Lake Wales • Charlee Kyle, Ridge Community To be eligible to receive the American FFA Degree from the National FFA Organization, members must meet the following minimum qualifications: 1. Have received the State FFA degree, been an active member for the past three years, and have a record of satisfactory participation in the activities on the chapter and state levels.

2. Have satisfactorily completed the equivalent of at least three years of secondary school instruction in an agricultural education program or to have completed at least two years of secondary school instruction in agricultural education and one full year of enrollment in a postsecondary agricultural program.

3. Have graduated from high school at least 12 months prior.

4. Have in operation an outstanding supervised agricultural experience.

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5. Must have earned at least $10,000 and productively invested at least $7500 or earned and productively invested $2000 and worked 2,250 hours in excess of class time.

6.

Have a record of outstanding leadership abilities and community involvement and achieved a scholastic record of a “C” or higher.

7. Have completed at least 50 community service hours.

We are very proud of these outstanding Polk County FFA members who will be awarded the American Degree at the National FFA Convention in October. They will also be recognized at the fifth general session at the State FFA Convention on Thursday, June 16.

• Tyler Brannan, Auburndale • Marissa Dawes, Frostproof • Noah Ogburn, Frostproof • Olivia Centanni, George Jenkins • Madyson Keim, George Jenkins • Crystal Carlson, Kathleen • Kaydee Clark, Kathleen • Alburney Taylor, Kathleen • Brooke Dykes, Lake Wales • Briley Wetherington, Lake Wales It is evident we have talented students and dedicated agricultural professionals within Polk County who help elevate our students to the next level of success. I am privileged to work with the Polk County FFA Federation officers year-round to help plan and facilitate a program of activities for our middle and high schools. This year’s team has worked diligently this year, and

it is now time that their year of service comes to a close. After a thorough process that included an application, prepared speech, written exam, and interview, I am pleased to share with you the 2022-2023 Polk County FFA Federation Officer Team.

• President- Charleigh Wood, George Jenkins High School • Mykaela Billingsley, Auburndale High • Jasmyn Billano, Haines City High • Kylee Urbina, Mulberry High • Lindsey True, Frostproof High • Tessa Mullis, Auburndale High • Secretary-Hannah Clayton, George Jenkins High ag

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CFAN | 37

Women of Wedgworth continued from page 16

Wedgworth alumni who will take their calls and help them solve problems and identify opportunities.

And most felt as they exited the program that it was time to do something to pay back the family and the employer that had invested in them. We have numerous examples of alumni joining commodity association boards, running for office, getting more involved in civic life and just plain living more intentionally.

Wynn says she taps into the Wedgworth alumni network every week as she seeks internships for Warner students. She meets socially with several women from her Wedgworth class a couple of times a year. And with that drive to do something with her Wedgworth experience, she has joined a couple of local civic boards and recently became the Polk County Farm Bureau’s first female president in 37 years.

Simmons Runkles tours the state training producers on how to handle food safely. Whether she runs for office herself or not, she has a newfound appreciation for how important it is for her to connect with policymakers so that they’ll listen to her and the wider agricultural community when considering legislation.

Her Wedgworth experience also taught her to lead by telling the story of agriculture to the wider community. She urges consumers to read labels and buy local. She calls on her fellow agriculturalists to tell their personal stories, to demonstrate the safety of the food they produce with anecdotes about how they feed it to their kids.

It’s a crucial time for leadership, Simmons Runkles says. As it stands now, she can’t see a future in farming for her children. Leadership can change that, though, she says, and Wedgworth can help inspire that leadership and help leaders like her emerge. ag

Editor’s Last Word Don’t Miss the 2022 Industrial Hemp Conference and Exhibition

JESSICA McDONALD, Editor jessica@centralfloridamediagroup.com

THE COMMERCIAL HEMP INDUSTRY is still in its infancy here in Florida.

As a result, any opportunities to network and share ideas are incredibly valuable, and that’s exactly what is on tap at the Florida Industrial Hemp Conference and Exhibition on May 20-22.

The conference itself, which will be held at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, is also a relatively young event. The event was canceled in 2020 because of COVID, so last year was the first year it proceeded as planned.

Organizers say the event will focus on the development of the industry in Florida.

Topics planned for discussion include: • Hemp Market Forecast • Crop Components: Seeds, Greens, •F ederal and State Regulations and Core Fiber, Root, Bast Fiber Legislation •C onstruction and Manufacturing • Food Supplement and Nutritional Applications Applications •B io-Composites Applications and • Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Research Applications • Textiles Applications •G rowing, Cultivation, and •P ulp and Paper Applications Harvesting Industrial Hemp • Waste Processing and Handling • Decortication •A nalytical Testing The conference’s agenda (available at floridahempconference.org/agenda) lists presentations that are planned, including: •H emp insights from UF/IFAS • Discussion about navigating state and federal regulations •E xploration of the sustainability of hemp farming in Florida.

Central Florida Ag News is proud to be a media sponsor of the event.

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