In The Field Magazine September 2010

Sept. 15 - Oct. 15, 2010

Hillsborough’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

®

Adam Putnam Seeks Commissioner of Agriculture Cabinet Post Covering What’s Growing INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

1

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SEPTEMBER 2010

3

From the Editor

September

Sarah Holt

VOL. 6 • ISSUE 11

Hillborough’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

Cover Story

Publisher

Sept. 15 - Oct. 15, 2010

I am so excited! The strawberry growers are busy preparing the fields for planting. My mouth is watering in anticipation of Fresh From Florida strawberries!

On that note, here are some tips for fresh produce safety from the web site FoodSafety.gov.

Buying Tips Purchase produce that is not bruised or damaged.

When selecting fresh-cut produce - such as a half a watermelon or bagged salad greens - choose items that are refrigerated or surrounded by ice.

Bag fresh fruits and vegetables separately from meat, poultry and seafood products.

Storage Tips Store perishable fresh fruits and vegetables (like strawberries, lettuce, herbs, and mushrooms) in a clean refrigerator at a temperature of 40° F or below.

Refrigerate all produce that is purchased pre-cut or peeled.

Preparation Tips Begin with clean hands. Wash your hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap before and after preparing fresh produce.

Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fresh fruits and vegetables.

Produce that looks rotten should be discarded.

All produce should be thoroughly washed before eating. Wash fruits and vegetables under running water just before eating, cutting or cooking.

Many precut, bagged produce items like lettuce are pre-washed. If the package indicates that the contents have been pre-washed, you can use the produce without further washing.

Even if you plan to peel the produce before eating, it is still important to wash it first.

Washing fruits and vegetables with soap or detergent or using commercial produce washes is not recommended.

Scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.

Drying produce with a clean cloth towel or paper towel may further reduce bacteria that may be present.

Until Next Month

Sarah

Hillsborough’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

®

Editor-In-Chief Al Berry

Senior Managing Editor and Writer

Adam Putnam Seeks Commissioner of Agriculture Cabinet Post

Sarah Holt

Covering What’s Growing INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

7 Did You Know?

13 FL FFA Hall of Fame Inductees 16 Fishing Hot Spots 23 Rocking Chair Chatter 24 FSGA on Upcoming Strawberry Season

Bob Hughens

Sales Manager Johnny Cone

Sales

Karen Berry Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton Eric Singletary W. Russle Hancock

Art Director

46 Gentle Gardening

Designer

83 Recipes 84 Florida Carambola

In The Field® Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Hillsborough County businesses, restaurants and other local venues.

It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes members of Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Growers 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 their advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In The Field® magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc. Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

SEPTEMBER 2010

Office Manager

29 Michelle Tucker Show Horses

80 Exotic Fruit Flies Found in Pinellas County

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

Editor

Patsy Berry

52 Steed Farm

4

1

Adam Putnam 76

49 Business UpFront Gator Ford

The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you.

Numbers 6:25

Karen Berry

Lourdes Sáenz

Juan Carlos Alvarez

Staff Writers

Al Berry Carol Weathersbee Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Kayla Lewis Nick Chapman Tracy Cox Sean Green Lourdes Sáenz Craig Chandler Mark Cook

Contributing Writers Woody Gore Brent Davis

Photography Karen Berry Al Berry

®

Tiffany Abbott

By Jim Frankowiak

Tiffany Abbott is a very busy young professional. As the Academic Program Coordinator/Recruiter at the Plant City Center of the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, her job is to help students, increase enrollment and raise awareness of the center and its offerings.

A recent Masters in Education graduate of the University of South Florida, the south Tampa native’s advanced degree has an emphasis on college student affairs. “This is a relatively new emphasis area in academia,” said Abbott, “and it is offered at about 80 schools in the U.S. As a graduate student at USF, I had an assistantship at the Career Center and also worked part time at the Department of Athletics. Our overall goal is to help students help themselves.” An alumna of Tampa’s Plant High School, Abbott received her undergraduate degree from Mercer University in Macon, Georgia where she majored in psychology.

Sometimes referred to as “handholding,” the support Abbott brings to students brings them to the University and assists them through the educational process. “At the Plant City Center, I help to recruit students and once they have decided to enroll, I assist them as they progress through the curriculum,” she said.

Regardless of the age of the student, there is an ongoing need for assistance. UF Plant City Center students range in age from the early 20’s to retirees and fulltime workers seeking advanced

education to further their careers. The center only accepts students at the transfer level, either graduates of AA programs or those who have accumulated 60 transferable ours at another institution of higher learning.

“While I focus my student recruiting efforts on Hillsborough and Polk Counties, our students at the Plant City Center also come from Pinellas and Pasco Counties,” said Abbott. “We have found that our students want a UF education within their own communities and since the center opened in 2001, we have enjoyed consistent growth in enrollment.” The Center’s program is offered by The University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), partnering with Hillsborough Community College (HCC) and the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center – Plant City.

Bachelor of Science degree programs include Agricultural Education, Environmental Horticulture, Geomatics and Natural Resource Conservation. Enrollment is open to both degree and non-degree seeking students. “We are one of five research education centers in the state and ours enjoys the highest enrollment,” said Abbott.

The Agricultural Education major prepares students for careers in teaching, sales, working with commodity and Continued on page 8

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

5

HILLSBOROUGH County HcFarmBureau.org

What is Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Federation?

Hillsborough County Farm Bureau works as the ears and eyes on behalf of agriculturists across the county.

HCFB makes sure local laws and regulations created take your best interests into consideration.

• Maintaining private property rights • Water use changes through SWFWMD • Greenbelt • Keeps abreast of pesticide and disease breakouts affecting local industry • Active participation on the Hillsborough County AEDC (Agriculture Economic Development Council) • Political Action Committee provides a link to the county and state delegation • Working with IFAS Extension locally to benefit Hillsborough County Agriculture

Member Benefits

A u o Y Are ? r e b m Me

Farm Bureau offers many of the products and services you use every day.

• • •

• • •

Long-distance calling Insurance protection and banking You also receive discounts on tickets to Florida theme parks such as Anheuser-Busch’s Busch Gardens, Adventure Island and Sea World, as well as Universal Orlando and Six Flags (Georgia) Members are eligible for a $500 Dodge rebate on select vehicles Members are eligible to receive $1,000 in accidental death insurance with their memberships Many more, visit www.FloridaFarmBureau.org for details

100 S. Mulrennan Rd. • Valrico, FL 33594

Tel: (813) 685-9121 • Fax: (813)681-3779 E-mail: info@hcfarmbureau.org

6

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FARM BUREAU 100 S. Mulrennan Rd. Valrico, FL 33594

• • • • • • • • • • •

•

• • • • • • • • •

Men can read smaller print than women, but women can hear better.

The cost of raising a medium-size dog to the age of eleven is about $6,400.

The youngest Pope was 11.

The first novel ever written on a typewriter was Tom Sawyer.

A shrimps’ heart is in its head.

Starfish don’t have brains.

A group of ravens is called a murder.

A group of owls is called a parliament.

A group of kangaroos is called a mob.

A group of frogs is called an army.

Hershey’s Kisses are called that because the machine that makes them looks like it’s kissing the conveyor belt.

The physically smallest post office in the United States is in Ochopee, Florida in the heart of the Everglades.

The face of a penny can hold about thirty drops of water.

The Phillips-head screwdriver was invented in Oregon.

Velcro was invented by a Swiss man who was inspired by the way burrs attached to clothing.

There are more beetles than any other kind of creature in the world.

Ballroom dancing is a major at Brigham Young University.

Turnips turn green when sunburned.

The state of Maryland has no natural lakes.

Sarsaparilla is the root that flavors root beer.

Colgate toothpaste makes an excellent salve for burns.

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Insurance Services 813.685.5673 Member Services 813.685.9121

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Danny Aprile..........................................Vice President Jemy Hinton.................................................... Treasurer George Coleman............................................ Secretary Glenn Harrell....................................Member at Large

DIRECTORS FOR 2009-2010

Bill Burnette, Amanda Collins, Roy Davis, David Drawdy, Jim Dyer, Alvin Futch, Lance Ham, Stefan Katzaras, Greg Lehman, Carl Little, Jake Raburn, Patrick Thomas, John Stickles, Michelle Williamson

Judi Whitson, 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, Agency Mgr. Julie Carlson, John McGuire

Plant City Office: 813.752.5577

YOU TOO CAN BE A WINNER HEY READERS, hidden somewhere in the magazine is a No Food No Farmers, No Food logo. Hunt for the logo and once you find the hidden logo you will be eligible for a drawing to win a FREE InTheField® T-Shirt.

Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the page on which you found the logo and where on that page you located the logo to:

1302 S. Collins St., Plant City, FL 33563 Jeff Sumner, Bill Williams

No Farmers

InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, FL 33563-0042 All Entries must be received by October 3, 2010.

Winner will be notified by phone.

You Too Can Be A Winner - Enter Now!

Tampa Office: 813.933.5440 1046 W. Busch Blvd., Ste. 100 Tampa, FL 33612 Greg Harrell, Mike Miller Brad Allsgood

AGENCY MANAGER: Tommy Hale

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

7

Continued from page 5 governmental agencies. Specifically, the program prepares students to be certified agriscience instructors and educational specialists. Abbott said this is a high demand major with traditionally 100 percent of graduates employed as teachers or in the private, governmental or commodity agriculture sectors. The center boasts a Collegiate FFA Chapter which helps students become active in FFA and community events. Members have the opportunity to work with industry leaders and assist educators through community service activities in agriculture.

The Environmental Horticulture field of study focuses on the art and science of propagating, growing, installing and maintaining ornamental plants that enhance the improve the environment. This diverse program offers curriculum in nursery and landscape horticulture as well as business management and communication.

The Geomatics major is concerned with land surveying and related technologies where students work with the development and management of earth-based data.

Students learn how the earth is measured, how the earth-based data is analyzed and how this data is integrated into forms and systems that people can use. Graduates have the opportunity to pursue high paying career paths in both the private and public sectors.

The Natural Resource Conservation major blends science, nature, environment and economics. This degree provides an opportunity for students to develop a personalized curriculum according to their specific interests within the field of natural resources, leading to positions with governmental, non-governmental and private sector organizations.

“Though our center is approaching its tenth anniversary, we are still working hard to generate awareness of our programs,” said Abbott. To that end, she participates in college nights and fairs, visits area high schools and exhibits at industry trade shows and major public events such as the Florida State Fair and Strawberry Festival. She does plan to take a break next May to wed Eddi Udvadia, however.

“In addition to personal visits and exhibits, we also have a Face book page and encourage emails (tiffanyabbott@ufl.edu), calls (818-757-2280) walk ins (1200 North Park Road, Room 101C, Plant City, Fl 33563) or a visit to our web site, gcrec.ifas.ufl.edu.pcc. The UF Plant City Center is open daily from 9 – 5.

8

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

s ’ k c u h C

TIRE & AUTOMOTIVE

Complete Auto Care 759-TIRE

ALIGNMENTS • TUNE UPS • WHEEL BALANCING SHOCKS • BRAKES • COMPUTER DIAGNOSTICS TRANSMISSION REPAIRS • NEW TIRES OIL & FILTER CHANGES • DIESEL REPAIR • A/C & MORE

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By Alvin Futch The other day I thought about the time we were working with cousin Loye on the Crum Ranch grading a road from State Road 39, three miles through palmetto woods east to the sheep pens. The road bed needed the grade in order for trucks to haul livestock out to market.

Mr. Crum had an antique grader that was pulled with a dozer. To operate it a man had to stand on a platform on the back and turn a huge iron wheel about three feet in diameter.

That controlled the up and down of the blade and two other levers controlled the angle of the blade. I was operating the dozer and Slick was standing on the platform at the controls.

He was working the blade at a sharp angle pulling up the front slope of the grade. I felt something jerk the dozer, and turned to find the point of the blade down in the bottom of the ditch. It had hit a fat lightered stump which completely stalled the dozer. At the moment I turned back to look I saw Slick flying in the air about 15 feet above the grader. He looked like a big bull frog sailing along. He landed belly first in a palmetto patch. The grader survived, and Slick came out with a few scratches.

After about a five minute recovery session for Slick we went back at it, and finished the job before supper.

(If you would like a copy of the book WILD AND WOOLEY, they are available at Knott Trading and Supply and Southside Farm Supply in Plant City.)

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED BY CHUCK STRUTH

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

9

A Word About

By Robyn Glarner Ready! Set! Go!!! Hey everybody it’s time to move into high gear. The winter show season is just a few short months away and now is the time to start thinking of your new show pig prospects. With the selecting of your project just around the corner, be thinking of what breed you would like to show this year. Ask different farms what breeds they have to select from.

The most common breeds available are Yorkshire, Hampshire, Duroc, and Landrace. These are the four main breeds recognized and registered by the National Swine Registry. The Spot, Chester White, Berkshire, Peitrain, and Hereford are some of the other pure breeds. However most of the show pigs will be crosses of the breeds mentioned.

To set the record straight, the term Blue Butt does not refer to a breed. It is the color of a white pig with dark spots or a dark blanket on his hindquarters.

You and your family are probably ready for the school year, but have you thought about getting that pig pen ready for the show pig season coming up? Remember when “Bubba” or “Pork chop” busted that water spigot or when they tore the gate off the hinges trying to get out to the feed barrel? I could go on about all the incidences that you and I have encountered with our pigs on the farm, but to get right to it, I am sure that you probably have repairs to be made and now is the time to get it done.

I hope that you guys did wash your pens out after your last show pig, but if you didn’t go ahead and wash it real good now.

Pressure wash the whole pen if you can, this will really get the grime out. Wash the wood too because that is where a lot of germs hide. Clean feed cans, feeders and anything to do with your show pig.

When you get all that stuff clean, turn your focus to selecting your next project. For you exhibitors who have your show pigs already and will show in the counties this fall, work on your showmanship techniques and monitor the weight of your show pig. Try to find a certified scale to weigh on so that you will know exactly were you are at with your project. Now is a good to experiment with clipping your pig, try a ¾ guard and see how you like it. Do not shave your pig bare! Walk your project everyday and this will get you and your show pig in shape. Be confident and have a great year.

These thoughts and tips are only suggestions that we have found to be useful and we pass them on to you, hoping that they will aid your show pig project in becoming a success! If you would like to contact us for further information on any of these topics we have discussed please call Glarner Farms at (229)-821-6108. You can also find us at our website www. glarnerfarmsshowpigs.com.

We would be glad to be of assistance to you. Be watching for our next article for more on show pigs!

“If you like the recession, you’ll love Amendment 4.”

- Mark Wilson, President Florida Chamber of Commerce

“A three-year experiment in St. Pete Beach shows land planning via referendum is a messy, unpredictable business that leads to higher government costs....“ [The St. Petersburg Times, 06.26.09] “ Ballots statewide would be full of jargon-laden, irrelevant junk....Because St. Pete Beach suffered for three years, Florida can avoid having to suffer for much longer.“ [The Palm Beach Post, 11.22.09] “ The

cost to local governments...would soar into the millions.“ [The Orlando Sentinel, 10.04.09] 4] is like using a machine gun to kill a flea...don’t make the solution worse than the problem.“ [The Florida Times-Union, 03.19.10]

“[Amendment

“ St.

Pete Beach has become a living laboratory to study the statewide consequences of a proposed constitutional amendment called [Amendment 4].... That’s no way to run a little city, and it’s certainly no way to run a state.“

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www.Florida2010.org

Paid political advertisement sponsored by Citizens for Lower Taxes and a Stronger Economy, Inc., 610 South Blvd., Tampa, Fl 33606.

Paid for in kind by In The Field Magazine.

10

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

On Nov. 2nd ...

VOTE NO on Amendment 4

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

Since 1896

So you can just be the grower.

We’ll take care of the rest.

FERTILIZER • CROP PROTECTION • SEED Walk-ins are Always Welcome Audie Ham

Ornamental Sales

813-478-5806 D.C.#: 158*17*4837 Layla Drawdy

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Mobile: 813-267-2246 D.C.#: 158*31*12301 3507 State Road 574 Plant City, FL 33563 (main office)

813-752-8342

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

813-752-1111

Florida FFA Hall of Fame to Induct Five in 2010 The Florida FFA is pleased to announce the 2010 FFA Hall of Fame Inductees. The 2010 inductees are Elton L. Hinton (deceased), William R. Jeffries, Fenwick D. McCormick, Floyd Lorrain & Janice Culligan Northrop (deceased), and Daniel Eugene Ryals, Jr. “Florida FFA owes an immense debt of gratitude to these outstanding leaders,” said Charlie Bronson, Commissioner of Agriculture. “Their dedicated service in agriculture education helped make FFA the outstanding student organization recognized throughout the State.”

They will be inducted into the Florida FFA Hall of Fame during the fourth annual awards celebration October 5, 2010 at the Florida FFA Leadership Training Center in Haines City.

“These individuals are responsible for the tradition of excellence that our FFA members have come to expect,” said Clay Sapp, 2010 State President of the Florida FFA Association.

“This year our theme is ‘History in the Making’. Through the tireless and unselfish efforts of individuals such as these, the Florida FFA Association has been ‘History in the Making’ since 1929. Their foresight and determination has helped develop our organization into the premier student organization in our state and has given Florida students in agriculture education the opportunity to leave their names in the Florida FFA history books.”

The Florida FFA Hall of Fame began in 2007 to pay tribute to those outstanding individuals who have helped make the Florida FFA Association the premier youth leadership organization in the state. Because of the support of these individuals, Florida FFA has become home to more than 15,000 FFA members in more than 300 FFA chapters across the state. FFA members are engaged in a wide range of agricultural education activities, leading to more than 300 professional career opportunities in the agricultural industry.

Tickets to the event are available from the Florida FFA Foundation. For ticket information, contact Gary Bartley at 863-439-7332 x 6321 or ggbartley@hotmail.com.

2010 Florida FFA Hall of Fame Inductees Fenwick D. “Mac” McCormick of Ocala, Florida, was an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor in Levy County and Alachua County for 10 years before joining the Florida Department of Education in 1971. After 16 years as a regional supervisor of agricultural education McCormick served as director of vocational-technical and adult education in Marion County schools for another 16 years before retiring in 2003. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture from the University of Florida and also served two years in the U.S. Army. He and his agriculture students received many state and national honors, including 45 state-winning FFA teams and 10 state FFA officers. As local vocational education director, McCormick added agriculture as a career orientation subject at every middle school in the county and expanded agriculture at all high schools.

Elton L. Hinton (deceased) earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural education from Auburn University and taught agriculture in Alabama for a short period of time before becoming the agriculture teacher at Turkey Creek High School in Hillsborough County, Florida, in 1948. During the next 19 years and in his later roles Hinton demonstrated an unselfish

commitment to youth and community development. He earned his master’s degree from the University of Florida in 1967 and that same year was appointed agriculture supervisor for Hillsborough County. His regular visits to the more than 40 agriculture teachers in the county over the next 12 years was a major factor in the advancement of agricultural education in the county. Hinton was a founding member and director of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association. He was also a founding member of the Florida Agriculture Hall of Fame and was inducted into that prestigious body in 1990.

William Ronald “Ron” Jeffries taught agriculture at Zephyrhills High School in Pasco County for eight years after earning his B.S. degree in agriculture from the University of Florida in 1960. Jeffries established a top five FFA chapter in the state and had many students who experienced success as FFA members and later in their agricultural careers. He began a long career with the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) in 1968 that included appointments as regional supervisor and state administrator for agricultural education. Jeffries worked with state leaders to include vocational student organizations as a part of the curriculum by State Board Rule. He served as section director for vocational programs and staff development in FDOE for six years before returning home to Polk County in 1982, where he was assistant superintendent for vocational and adult education for 15 years before retiring in 1997.

Floyd and Janice Northrop (deceased) were well known in Florida agricultural education for many years – Floyd as an agriculture teacher and supervisor and Janice as an assistant with the musical programs at state FFA conventions. Floyd and Janice attended Cornell University before Floyd began his teaching career in Florida at Tarpon Springs High School.

He also taught agriculture at Largo High School and in Dade County. After a total of 27 years as a high school teacher and administrator, Mr. Northrop accepted a district agriculture supervisor position with the University of Florida. He then served as a regional supervisor for agricultural education for the Florida Department of Education for another 18 years before retiring in 1969. Mr. and Mrs. Northrop were a highly visible team dedicated to Florida agricultural education and FFA. Mrs. Northrop wrote and copyrighted the state FFA song, Florida FFA, and played the piano at state FFA convention sessions while Mr. Northrop led the singing. Mr. Northrop was a strong leader for all education, and especially agricultural education and FFA. Daniel Eugene Ryals, Jr. graduated from the University of Florida in 1948 and immediately began teaching agriculture at Altha High School. He taught his students sound business skills through the use of creative laboratory projects, including a broiler operation with 15,000 birds. Many of his students were state and national FFA winners and went on to become successful farmers and business owners. Earning his master’s degree from UF in agriculture along the way, Ryals continued as the agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Altha for 23 years before moving to Leon County as a horticulture instructor and agribusiness center director. He played a major role in the development of the certification manual for nursery employees and taught the first nursery certification courses in west Florida.

Mr. Ryals retired in 1981 after 33 years in agricultural education and lives in Marianna, Florida.

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SEPTEMBER 2010

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TAMPA BAY’S FISHING REPORT

By Captain Woody Gore

SIMPLICITY OF FISHING­ — It’s not difficult “During our time on earth, we shouldn’t be afraid to do something that’s not in the exact path we originally chose, especially if it includes lots of

fishing!”

Fishing is not difficult and too often we make it more than it really is, especially where children are concerned. Many folks would like to start fishing or introduce their children to it, but everything they see or hear portrays it as expensive and technically challenging.

Granted there are advanced techniques that enable us to catch more fish. But let me tell you that fishing doesn’t need to be difficult, and it sure doesn’t need to be expensive as evidenced recently by a friend named Jeff Kolodzinski, who works for Frabill in Wisconsin. Frabill make the best bait storage systems and landing nets available to anglers.

In late July, Jeff broke his long standing world record for catching the most fish in a 24 hour period. He would be targeting pan fish and of course he would be using a Frabill aerated minnow container in his fishing venture. To keep it simple Jeff used a ten foot pole, much like the bamboo ones many of us started fishing with as children. Attached to the end was about ten feet of fishing line, a small hook, float and a split shot sinker. He didn’t have a reel or special line or baits.

Fishing from a dock on Lake Minnetonka in the Twin Cities Jeff caught 2,160 fish, breaking his own record. He estimated he had about $30 invested in his rod, line, and tackle. However, he did have a lot of minnows because as you can imagine it takes a lot of bait to catch 2,160 fish.

Fishing can be as simple or difficult as you make it. So don’t’ let anyone tell you that you’ve got to spend a fortune on equipment to go fishing. You can start out with pretty basic stuff, and catch plenty of fish. After you discover the joy and relaxation of fishing, it’s up to you how much you spend on equipment.

I’ve been fishing my entire life and believe me I’ve got a lot of fishing gear, and much of it high tech. One fear I have is that when I’m dead my wife will sell my fishing gear for what I said I paid for it.

Even though I started out with a cane pole, fishing for the past 60 years I like to believe I’ve progressed to the level of using and enjoying the higher quality rod, reels and tackle. In my simple mind, I like to think it gives me an advantage in catching fish. Occasionally, as my confidence level soars to a feeling of superiority over this angling adversary, they quickly settle me back into reality by refusing to bite.

Each time I’ve gone fishing I’ve always returned happy, relaxed, and ready to go again.

Tampa Bay Fishing Report October 2010 Snook are eating greenbacks and you can net plenty on every

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g ra s s flat. Fishing’s been excellent in Tampa Bay all summer and should continue right through the month. Mangrove shores, broken bottom grass flats, bridges, passes, docks you name the snook are there.

At times larger snook just won’t chase bait, so try putting a dead one on the bottom with a circle hook and see what happens.

Artificial lures can be a challenge in the beginning, but in the long run it’s well worth the learning curve. Hard or soft lures work equally well and probably the most excitement you will experience is working topwater lures back to the boat and seeing a fish strike the moving lure.

Redfish – Summer time redfish fishing seemed a little slow but the fall months should bring more action around the flats and back country. These areas produce good catches as they move to the Mangroves and oyster bars. Live greenbacks or small pinfish produce well and early morning top-water lures across a broken bottom grass flat should offer good visual excitement.

Fish mullet schools for redfish.

Sea Trout – Trout fishing on the many grass flats throughout Tampa Bay’s been on fire all summer and this month should not slow down. Use popping corks or just free line a greenie or shrimp. We’ve been catching some really nice trout fishing deeper water grass flats on moving water.

Mackerel, Sharks, Bluefish, Cobia, and Tarpon

It’s been a “Big Mack Attack” all summer and early fall should be no exception. Spanish Mackerel are everywhere and hitting anything in the water.

Continued on the next page

Hang a chum block over the side, toss out some stunned threadfins or greenbacks and its game on.

Bluefish: The bay seems loaded with bluefish and they are big with many in the 3 to 5 lb range. At least they’re big for our area. If you’re fishing for mackerel you’ll surely catch plenty of blues, ladyfish, and jacks and, like mackerel, they all scream your drag.

Tarpon: Are at the Skyway Bridge and along the beaches. Large Greenbacks, Threadfins, or a crab should do the trick.

You might try the light lines along the bay bridges at night.

Capt. Woody Gore has fished Florida for over 50 years and offers professionally guided fishing charters in and around the Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Clearwater, and Tarpon Springs. He offers multi-boat or group charters with the finest captains available. If you are interested in booking a trip, please visit his website at: WWW. CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM or call 813-477-3814. You can also follow him on Facebook.

We preserve the best of nature, to produce the best from nature.

Enriching farmland is our labor and our love. We provide American farmers with nutrients to grow the food we need. But our work doesn’t stop there. After mining the natural phosphate needed to make our products, we reclaim the land for recreational and environmental uses. We bring more to your table, all while feeding the world responsibly.

A better Florida and a better world www.mosaicfla.com

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SEPTEMBER 2010

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FLORIDA CHEF WINS GREAT AMERICAN COOK-OFF Chef Dean Max of Fort Lauderdale captured top honors at the Great American Seafood Cook-off on August 7 in New Orleans. He was crowned “King of American Seafood” after besting 13 other teams from across the country. Each team prepared a domestic seafood dish that reflected the cuisine of their home state. Chef Dean’s winning entry was “Sebastian Inlet Clams BBLT (Bacon, Basil, Lettuce, and Tomato).”

With the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, interest in the New Orleans-based cook-off was especially intense this year. Chef Dean said he was pleased to have the chance to celebrate Florida seafood at such a high-profile event and expressed confidence in the safety of Gulf seafood, pointing out that the Food and Drug Administration and other agencies are constantly monitoring seafood quality.

“The majority of the Gulf is considered pristine, hosting many varieties of seafood that remain a healthy delicacy,” he said.

“With the focus of so many organizations testing the waters, I feel that eating Gulf seafood has never been safer.”

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles H. Bronson said the cook-off was a great opportunity to showcase Florida seafood on the national stage.

“This event helped get out the message that Florida seafood is safe, plentiful and available,” Bronson said. “Our state’s commercial fishermen are bringing in their quality catch daily.

Add to that the creativity of Chef Dean Max, and you’ve got a winning combination.”

In addition to Florida, competing chefs represented Alabama, Alaska, Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Texas, and West Virginia.

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The chefs were given two hours to prepare their dishes and present them to the judges.

The panel of judges included Chef Rick Tramonto of Chicago restaurants Tru, Tramonto Steak and Seafood, and Osteria di Tramonto; Chef Jeff Tunks of Ceiba in Washington, D.C.; Chandra Ram, executive editor of Plate magazine; Beverly Stephen, executive editor of Food Arts magazine; and Chef Justin Timineri, winner of the 2006 Great American Seafood Cook-off and executive chef for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. This year’s cook-off was hosted by Jeff Corwin of Animal Planet and the Food Network’s Extreme Cuisine. Co-host was Chef John Folse, Louisiana’s Culinary Ambassador.

Presented annually by the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, the Great American Seafood Cook-off, which encourages the use of products from sustainable fisheries, is now in its seventh year. Sponsors included the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, FishWatch, Michelob Brewing Company, Whole Foods Market, Tabasco, Loubat Food Service Equipment, Louisiana Restaurant Association, and the Royal Sonesta New Orleans Hotel.

Dean James Max is the executive chef at 3030 Ocean. The restaurant opened in 2000 and is located at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort and Spa on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Earlier in his career, Chef Dean was an executive chef and part owner of Atlanta’s popular Mumbo Jumbo restaurant and executive chef at Woodside in Brentwood, California. He is classically trained in French cooking. His cookbook, “A Life by the Sea,” was published in 2006.

Continued on the next page

Sebastian Inlet Clams BBLT (Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato, and Basil) Yield: Serves 6

Fish Stock (you can substitute canned clam broth for this if necessary): 1 pound halibut fish bones • 1 rib celery • 1 onion pinch of salt • 1 quart water Rinse the fish bones clean and place them in a pot with the chopped celery and onion. Cover the bones with the water and salt. Bring the stock to a boil and turn it down to simmer for 40 minutes. Let it rest for 20 minutes before straining. Cool and refrigerate.

Tomato Sauce: 6 large red tomatoes • 1 tablespoon chopped garlic • 1 tablespoon minced Calabrese peppers 2 minced shallots • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons reserved bacon fat Halve, seed, and grate the flesh of the tomatoes and discard the skin. Sautée the garlic, peppers, and shallots with the olive oil and bacon fat, and add in the tomato. Cook the mixture until it becomes thick. Refrigerate until needed.

Bacon: 1/4 pound double-smoked bacon (Chef Max uses Benton’s Family Farm) Over a medium heat, render off the bacon 75 percent of the way (meaning don’t cook it until all the fat is released) then reserve the bacon pieces separate from the fat.

Basil Bubbles: 2 cups basil leaves (stems removed) • 1/4 cup reserved hot fish stock Plunge the basil leaves in a small pot of boiling water to shock them for 20 seconds, and then transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool them down. In a blender, combine the hot fish stock and the blanched basil and blend until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh strainer, and scoop the bubbles from the top and serve on the clams.

Steaming the Clams: 6 dozen littleneck clams • 2 tablespoons garlic • 1/2 bottle white wine 1 quart fish stock • 1/2 pound butter • 1 pint cherry tomatoes (peeled of their skin) 4 tablespoons basil chiffanade • 2 lemons • salt Clean the clams and discard any open dead ones. In a large pot, sauté the garlic with four tablespoons of the butter, and add the clams and tomato sauce and cook for 2 minutes. Deglaze with the white wine and add in the fish stock as well.

Cover the clams until they open, and scoop equal portions of them into 6 bowls. Reduce the sauce by half and add the rest of the butter, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Lightly season with salt and add the lemon juice.

Ready to Serve: 1 ciabatta bread loaf (cut in 6 equal lengthwise portions) • 6 each baby romaine lettuce heads 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil • 2 tablespoons lemon juice 24 micro red romaine leaves (optional) tossed in a bit of olive oil and lemon juice salt and pepper Trim the ciabatta bread to match the shape of the serving vessel. Brush the ciabatta bread with two tablespoons of the olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. In a mixing bowl, toss the romaine with the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and fresh ground pepper. On a hot grill, mark the bread and romaine for 45 seconds on each side, then reserve.

In a large bowl-style plate, place the grilled bread down first and top with the wilted romaine. Scatter the clams on and around the bread. Spoon the tomato broth from the clams all over the dish like a shallow soup. Scatter some of the crispy bacon around and some of the micro romaine as a garnish. Ladle a large spoon of the basil bubbles over the clams right before serving.

No Farmers No Food

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h g i H

FIVE!!!

By: Johnny Cone

Photo by CMFoto Just about everyone enjoys seeing a dog with a trick or two up its sleeve. One of my favorites is called “high five.” This is a modernized version of the handshake dogs have been doing for years. “High five” is a lot of fun and easy to teach. The dog actually teaches itself by association. It just takes a little time.

To begin teaching this trick, you need a quiet place and a few treats. Take a treat, put it in the palm of your hand, and close your hand around the treat. Then place the dog in a sit facing you. Place your closed hand with the treat, fingers up, below the dogs head, close to the body and about chest high. The dog will most likely try to get the treat with its mouth. It will likely mouth and lick at your hand. Don’t move your hand and don’t say anything. Just wait. Sooner or later the dog will paw at your hand.

The second its paw touches your hand, open your hand and allow the dog to get the treat. Remain silent at this point. This was an accident. The dog has not figured out why you opened your hand and allowed it access to the treat. Repeat this step over and over until the dog puts its paw on your hand as soon as you put it under its face. You can give verbal praise in conjunction with the treat if you like. But don’t overdo it though. A simple “good” is enough.

You want the dogs focus to be on getting the treat at this point.

What you are doing here is teaching the dog to target your hand with its paw to get what it wants. How long it takes the dog to figure this out varies from dog to dog. Some figure it out in a few repetitions, some take more time. You will want to repeat this exercise for several training sessions before moving on.

You want the dog really sharp on this behavior. Please note that you can be as specific as you like. I only open my hand if the dog touches with the same paw every time. It does not really matter but I prefer my dogs “high five” to my right hand with their left paw. So I only reward touched by the left paw.

Once the dog is very reliable at this step it is time to move on. In the second you once again place your hand closed fist, fingers up under the dog’s nose. Except in this step your hand is empty. You are still going to reward the paw touch with a treat. But keep the treat in your free hand. At this point the dog should touch your hand with it paw as soon as you put it down there. As soon as it touches your closed fist open it and give it the treat with your other hand. This gets the dog to begin

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looking up at you when it touches your hand. Again practice this step over a few sessions, but by now it should move fairly quickly.

The next step is to place your open hand palm up under the dogs head. By this point the dog should immediately touch your open hand with its paw. It is the same as the previous step. As soon as the dog touches your open palm give it a treat with your free hand and a little verbal praise. Like the other steps, I like to practice this over a few sessions. I like to add a little more verbal praise at this point, because I am going to eventually ask the dog to perform the completed trick without any food rewards.

The final step is to turn your open hand in front of the dog fingers up as you would if you were giving a friend a high five.

The dog should really have the hang of it now and immediately tough your hand. This is where you add the command. As soon as you place your hand in front of the dog, give the command “high five.” Practice this step over several sessions with treats and verbal praise. Once the dog is performing the trick every time you ask for it, you can begin weaning it off the food treats and going with only verbal praise.

So there you have it, a fun trick that you and your dog will both enjoy. You can take it even farther if you like. You can go back to the beginning and teach it to “high five” your other hand with its opposite paw. And you can even teach it to touch both paws to both hands at the same time. I call this variation “give me ten.” Your friends, family, and even strangers will get a kick out of “high five.” They can join in as well. If your dog is well mannered with others, offer them the opportunity to give your dog a “high five.” It brings smiles all around every time.

PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Ag Educator of the Year Cindy Churchil

Getting Recognized

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual Agricultural Awards on August 11 at its monthly Contact Breakfast, held at the Red Rose Inn and Suites.

Each year the Chamber recognizes individuals who make a difference in the community through agriculture. The selection is made by the Chambers’ Ag Committee.

Agri-Business of the Year Mosaic Fertilizer, LLC (Ron Hall)

Supporter of Youth in Agriculture Tim M. Lopez, Sr. Westcoast Enterprises

Agriculturist of the Year Sam Astin III

Young Agriculturist of the Year Stephanie Swindle Conrad INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

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When I was a kid the adults used to tell me how hard things were when they were growing up. Walking miles to and from school each day, studying at night from a kerosene lamp, and not having indoor plumbing. If you’re over 50 you have heard the story.

I remember as a youngster we did have indoor plumbing, a refrigerator with a block of ice delivered twice a week by the ice man from the Artic Ice plant in Plant City. No TV, but a Motorola radio where the family would gather at night and listen to such shows as Abbot & Costello, Fibber McGee & Molly, and on Saturday night the big show was “Your Hit Parade.” A few years later the popular show, like American Idol is today, was the Ed Sullivan Show. Best to my memory Elvis was blasted for wiggling too much when he sang on Ed’s show.

In my early years there was no such thing as the Internet, ’cause Al Gore had not yet invented it. We actually had to go to the library to look something up using their card catalog system. There was no e-mail! We had to sit down and actually write somebody a letter with a pen. Then you had to walk down to the corner and put it in the mailbox, or put in your mailbox and raise the flag to remind the postman to pick it up.

Boy, the phone system was a dilly. Most people were on a party line, and there was always someone that was long winded, and you would have to keep picking up the receiver in hopes it would help to remind them to cut their conversation short, or, if you like you could join with a three way conversation. No call waiting, no texting, no caller ID, you would just pick up the phone and take your chance.

We didn’t have helmets for bicycles. If you fell you would get up and go home and mom would put a band-aid on you. If you got sick a dose of Caster Oil was always the remedy. We seemed

to survive without car seats, seat belts and cell phones.

Kids now days have it too easy. However, they may be a bit smarter. I can call my 12-year-old grandson, Ryan, over to show me how to use all the gadgets on the TV remote. He’s a whiz with the iPod, too.

I remember when Ryan was younger, he picked up our family bible and was amused as he fingered through the pages. He noticed something fell out of the Bible.

It was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages. He hollered at Nana and said, “Look what I found.” “What have you got, Ryan?” she asked.” “I think it’s Adam’s underwear!” I also remember our youngest daughter’s first day of school. I asked Karen how it went and she replied, “I think I am wasting my time, I can’t read, I can’t write and they won’t let me talk!”

My mother had old time sayings, some of which are still around today. When the dark clouds would form she would say “It’s clabber’n up for rain.” Other’s include, “This thang is plum whompie jawed.” “I’m between the devil and the deep blue sea.” “He’s as jumpy as a longtail cat in a room full of rocking chairs.” “He walks like he has ants in his pants.” “Lord willing and the creek don’t rise.” And her favorite of them all, especially when I would get out-of-line, was, “Better stop that before I jerk a knot in your rear.”

Dad loved to eat, and mom would always serve everything piping hot from the stove. Had she worked a McDonald’s as a coffee maker she would have been sued for every pot she made. Hot, extremely hot, and dad loved it that way. Ever heard of “saucered and blowed?”

That was dad’s technique of pouring hot coffee in a saucer, blowing on it to cool it down, then sipping it out of the saucer. He would occasionally tell some one off by saying, “The buzzards layed you, and the sun hatched you.”

In many ways I am a lot like my father. He did not like to go shopping, so I guess I get it honest. When I go I know what I want, buy it, and leave! I met a retired couple at the Sawmill Place Restaurant in Blairsville, Georgia this past summer. His wife declared she would never take him shopping with her again. He could sit in the car and wait from now on. I asked her why, and she said, “Well Herbert really did not like go with me to me to the new Wal-Mart that opened just north west of town. First thing he did was to take a bag of M&M’s and ask to put them on layaway. Then he went to the auto department and practiced his ‘Madonna Look’ by using different sizes of funnels.

And last but not least he set all the alarm clocks to go off at 5-minute intervals.

Let me close with the story of three men that married women from different states. The first man married a woman from Michigan.

He told her that she was to do the dishes and house cleaning. It took a couple of days, but on the third day, he came home to see a clean house and dishes washed and put away. The second man married a woman from Missouri. He gave his wife orders that she was to do all the cleaning, dishes and the cooking. The first day he didn’t see any results, but the next day he saw it was better. By the third day he saw his house was clean, the dishes were done and there was a huge dinner on the table. The third man married a girl from Alabama. He ordered her to keep the house clean, dishes washed, lawn mowed, laundry washed, and hot meals on the table for every meal. He said the first day he didn’t see anything, the second day he didn’t see anything, but by the third day some of the swelling had gone down and he could see a little out of his left eye, and his arm had healed enough that he could fix himself a sandwich and load the dishwasher.

Just remember, do not take life to seriously, no one gets out alive.

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Ted Campbell

Optimistic for the Upcoming Strawberry Season

By Jim Frankowiak Florida Strawberry Growers Association Executive Director Ted Campbell is “optimistic about this coming season for a variety of reasons. We are expecting an increase in acreage once again, with much of our new growth areas to the south of the more traditional Plant City/Dover area,” he said. “We are also seeing new areas which are equipped for alternative freeze protection methods due to last winter’s water complications, so farming is getting more complex.

“Our Canadian nurseries experienced a good growing season all summer, so the transplants should be strong and healthy for upcoming fall planting. Our latest release is ‘Florida Radiance’. More will be planted this season since growers feel they better understand its nuances after growing some last season, and therefore have greater confidence. It often seems that each new release has its own cultural requirements.”

“There are a few promising varieties in development, but not yet ready for release. It actually takes about 10 years to fully develop new variety,” said Campbell. FSGA works closely with the University of Florida and its Gulf Coast Education and Research Center to help grow and sustain the industry and that involves a good deal more than the development of new varieties. “Our funding of research projects covers a wide range of issues which impact growers,” said Campbell. “We fund

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entomology to handle insect infestations, pathology to fight plant diseases and fumigation studies to control weeds, fungus and microorganisms in the soil.”

“We fund a tissue culturing lab, advance selection nursery in Colorado and molecular breeding project in Gainesville.

FSGA has also helped fund the development of a very successful web-based system that recommends strategically timed fungicide applications based on specific climatic conditions.

This program has cut chemical applications on some farms more than 50 percent. That not only saves the farm money, but addresses public concerns about chemical usage.”

“We are obviously involved in current research to develop alternatives for ground water frost protection. FSGA also supports Extension projects, AgVenture for children’s education, FFA awards and projects, UF’s FAWN weather network, Redlands Christian Migrant Association initiatives and many other worthy programs of benefit both growers and the community.”

Marketing Director Sue Harrell said FSGA will again design and implement individual promotions and special programs with retailers and continue to participate in promotional and merchandising programs with the Florida Department of Agriculture Continued on next page

and Consumer Services. “We are pushing harder this year to enhance our Florida identity to consumers. ‘Fresh from Florida’ is obviously well established by the Department of Agriculture, and we are augmenting that initiative this season with our ‘Jammer’ strawberry character on individual clamshells to correlate identification with our kids’ educational video that we use in many schools during Ag Venture,” she said.

Looking at regional or local marketing, Harrell has some thoughts on that aspect of FSGA marketing. “The importance of regional or locally grown crops such as strawberries is a widely debated issue, but it is strong in the minds of consumers.

We have focused promotions in regional magazines such as Taste of the South during our harvest season. This year we will probably add some outdoor advertising to promote the availability of our strawberries to locavores (residents of a given area who eat only locally grown items). Taste of the South magazine will be featuring our winning recipes from last year’s contest, and we are trying to promote new ways to use strawberries in salads, sauces for entrees, etc. They’re not just for dessert,” she said.

Harrell also encourages retailers to recognize and act upon the fact the strawberries are an impulse purchase. “The data shows our market penetration has tremendous upside.

Consumer acceptance rate is one of the highest, approaching 96 percent and the nutritional benefits are fantastic. So just having fresh fruit accessible to the customer can boost sales.

Merchandise in multiple locations, cross-merchandising with salads, desserts and other popular combinations are just some ways to easily boost sales. That also helps to turn inventory to keep it at the peak of freshness,” she said. “Retailers should look at our strawberries as the taste of summer that can be enjoyed during the winter. Even during economic stress, people will still indulge in strawberries, a real favorite.”

Organic farming and the products it produces are growing in popularity, but Campbell is cautious regarding that growth area. “Our hot humid climate creates substantial challenges to certified organic farming. Crop protection tools are extremely important to control fungal diseases and many are not available to organic production. Our weather conditions, rather than consumer demand, will constrain Florida organic production until new methodologies emerge – it’s not simply a higher cost of production issue,” he said.

With regard to developments in packaging, Campbell believes “we are seeing a greater emphasis on larger package sizes to capitalize on increasing consumer demand and to promote higher unit sales and personal consumption. We are also seeing continued innovation in consumer package labeling with traceability back to farm and individual picker. Many consumers enjoy the reassurance and positive responses are often used to incentivize workers.”

For more information about strawberries or the FSGA, visit www.flastrawberry.com and don’t forget our strawberries are just a short time away.

Show pigs available on the farm from $17500 and up.

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FLORIDA AG

in the classroom funds 19 volunteer grants for 2010 Students in kindergarten through 12th grade will learn where the materials in their clothing comes from, how farmers are often blamed for water pollution they don’t cause and other important agriculture-related lessons as part of the 19 Volunteer Grant projects funded by Florida Agriculture in the Classroom for 201011.

The Gainesville-based, non-profit association funded by sales of the agriculture specialty license plate known as the ‘Ag Tag’ will spend nearly $25,000 on projects carried out primarily by University of Florida IFAS extension and 4-H agents, agri-science teachers and other educators who are working to educate students about Florida agriculture. These projects will reach more than 9,000 students.

“Our volunteer grants program is just one way we fund projects carried out by our grassroots network of volunteers around the state,” said Florida Agriculture in the Classroom Chairman and Florida Beef Council representative Vina Jean Banks. “Without them, we wouldn’t reach nearly as many students as we do each year.”

The projects funded include (the organization funded is in parentheses): 1. “Where Do Clothes Grow? An Exploration of Natural Fibers from the World Around Us” -- Elementary school students in Baker County will learn about where the fibers come from that make their clothes by participating in Florida Agriculture in the Classroom “Keeping Florida Green” lessons and watching local artisans weave fabric into cloth. (Baker County 4-H) 2.

“Water Gardening: Floating Food and Fun with Hydroponics” -- Students in kindergarten through 12th grade in Baker County will learn about alternative growing techniques, food production and plant science by observing classroom “floating water gardens.” (Baker County Extension) 3. “H2O Outreach Project” -- Students in fourth and fifth grade in North Broward County will study “non-point source pollution,” the impacts the misuse of this term has on the agriculture industry and how to protect the use of water in agriculture in the future.

(Youth Environmental Alliance) 4. “Seed to Table Gardening Project” -- Coral Glades High School students in Broward County will learn about Florida agriculture by establishing a ‘kitchen garden’ to be used in the school’s culinary program. (Youth Environmental Alliance) 5. “KHHS Ag-Ademics!” -- Keystone Heights High School

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SEPTEMBER 2010

agri-science students in Clay County will prepare and deliver lessons and activities as part of a “Farm Day” for Keystone Heights Elementary students to teach them about Florida agriculture.

(Keystone Heights High School agri-science teacher) 6. “Fort White Indian Growers Cooperative Greenhouse” -- Agri-science students at Fort White High School in Columbia County will learn about the Florida horticulture industry by establishing a school greenhouse project. (Fort White High School agriscience teacher) 7. “Escambia County Growing Gardeners” -- Elementary and middle school students in Escambia County will learn about local agriculture and healthy eating choices by observing fruits, vegetables and herbs grown in raised bed gardens and participating in Florida Agriculture in the Classroom lessons. (Escambia County Extension) 8. “Flagler County Ag Ventures” -- Fourth grade students will learn about local agriculture by participating in an AgVenture field trip during which they are routed through stations that teach them about different locally grown commodities. (Flagler County 4-H) 9. “Learning from a Fish in a School” -- Agri-science students at Dowdell Middle Magnet School in Hillsborough County will learn about the aquaculture industry by establishing an aquaculture lab at their school. (Dowdell Middle Magnet School agri-science teacher) 10. “Sassy Cows for Savvy Kids” -- Special needs students at Riverview High School in Hillsborough County will learn about the Florida dairy industry by rearing a heifer and participating in Florida Agriculture in the Classroom’s “Keeping Florida Green” lessons. (Riverview High School agriscience teacher) 11. “First Time Farmers” -- First graders in Jackson County will learn about local agriculture production by participating in classroom activities and an AgVenture program. (Jackson County 4-H) 12. “ESE Classroom Garden” -- Special needs students at Liberty County High School will learn about local commodity production by observing plants growing in containers and participating in Florida Agriculture in the Classroom lessons.

(Liberty County High School agriscience teacher) 13. “AgVenture” -- Third graders in Manatee County will learn about Florida agriculture by participating in Florida Agriculture in Continued on next page

the Classroom lessons and participating in an AgVenture field trip program. (Manatee County 4-H) 14.

“Tiny Green Thumbs” -- Students in kindergarten through eighth grade will gain hands-on farm experience by participating in six workshops at Gamble Creek Farm in Manatee County and learn from Florida Agriculture in the Classroom lessons. (Florida West Coast Resource and Conservation and Development Council) 15. “Fifth Grade Farm Entrepreneurs” -- Fifth graders in Sumter County will learn about local commodity production and important science lessons by forming “grower cooperatives,” establishing vegetable gardens and participating in Florida Agriculture in the Classroom lessons and Ag Learning Barn program. (Sumter County Extension) 16. “Fall Harvest Farm Experience for Suwannee Valley Youth” -- Fourth graders in Baker, Bradford, Columbia, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Nassau, Suwannee and Union counties will learn about local commodity production by participating in a fall AgVenture field trip program. (Suwannee County Extension) 17. “Chicken Wing Day Camp” -- Students in third grade through middle school will learn about local poultry production by visiting a poultry facility and participating in Florida Agriculture in the Classroom lessons. (Suwannee Valley 4-H League) 18. “4-H Agriculture Day” -- Fifth graders in Taylor County will learn about the Florida agriculture industry by participating in an Agriculture Day field trip and reviewing Florida Agriculture in the Classroom materials. (Taylor County 4-H) 19. “Hello Hydroponics!” -- Students in third through fifth grade will learn about alternative growing methods by observing a hydroponics teaching unit their teachers will receive and Florida Agriculture in the Classroom lessons their teachers will present.

(Taylor County 4-H)

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AGAZINE

EPTEMBER

Photo of World Show by Jeff Kirkbride

By Nick Chapman On a small farm off a quiet street in Plant City, world champions are born. Some are horses, some are riding students, but all are guided by the hand of Michele Tucker. At the recent World Pinto Show in Tulsa, Michele said, “All my kids got in the top 10, which is just unheard of. They were just really committed.” But the commitment doesn’t stop at the students, as Michele exemplifies the meaning of drive and passion for excellence.

Michele has been around horses her entire life. Her parents were some of the first to own and raise Appaloosas in Connecticut, and then moved to Florida when she was nine. Michele had her first world champion at the age of 15 on a horse she trained. “That’s where I got started, and I’ve been going full tilt since then.” She has been at her current farm off Colson Road for the past six years, and started with her breeding program. “I started breeding five years ago, and two of the babies I’ve raised here are now world champions.” Since the first foals are now three and four years old and just really hitting the show circuits, she is pleased with the initial success.

She never thought early on that she would end up teaching students, but after taking in her first student and having success, other students soon follow. She now has 13 students, with a waiting list of others wanting her services. Michele has been impressed with the drive and determination her students have shown. “It is different when you are working with kids that go to this level. I have kids that don’t want to show, but they don’t last very long because my other students are so serious.”

Being a student of Michele’s is not just fun and games. “My kids get out there and they work. They tack up their own horse, they brush their own horse. I make them clean tack, they clean cobwebs, they do everything. They have to know that if they get into horses, this is what they’re getting into. It isn’t just the bells and whistles of showing and wearing pretty clothes. You have to have that shared passion.”

Michele has been humbled by the trust her students’ parents place in her while teaching and training their children, and she takes that responsibility seriously. “If they get bad grades, they’re done. That has to be first and foremost.” The training of her students is the main focus of her farm, with her breeding program being a sideline. “The kids are what it is all about for me. I have a total of 15 world championships now, and about 10 reserve championships. I’m happy with what I’ve done. Now to have the kids do it and win, it’s a big deal.” Six of Michele’s students were able to participate in the 2010 Pinto World Show and came home with two world championships, one reserve championship, and several top five and top ten placements.

Besides her training, Michelle is also an experienced horse show judge, having judged over 100 shows for 4-H, various breed organizations and open shows. She also teaches many clinics, and has presented her expertise in showmanship, equitation, western pleasure and trail.

Continued on page 30

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Continued on next page

30

She jokes that part of her current success is due to her pet goose, Dudley. “She follows me everywhere I go on the farm.” She obtained the goose from Southside Feed and it has been by her side since.

With her continued success at the national level, Michele readily illustrates that she is not only a quality instructor, but through her own personal example of zeal and fervor for the horses she loves, she has inspired her students to set high goals for themselves and achieve them. And achieve them they have, with “blue ribbon” success.

To find out more about Michelle Tucker Show Horses, visit the website at: www.micheletuckershowhorses.com.

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

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The Goat Dancer

By Mark J. Cook The economy has forced many folks to rethink their future plans.

Many whom expected to work with the same company until they retired were given a rude awakening the last 10 years. Most struggle to find a new way of life, but a few actually considered it a blessing in disguise.

Pam Lunn, owner of The Dancing Goat, considers herself one of the lucky ones that changed gears completely.

Today, while not getting rich by any means, Lunn is paying most of the bills finally, selling goat milk, cheese, kefir, goat milk soap and a wide variety of eggs and other natural products.

“I call myself a yuppie turned farmer,” Lunn said laughing.

“Growing up in West Virginia people assume I had a country background, but other than visiting my grandparents in the country I was a city girl. I have learned an awful lot about having a farm and most of it the hard way.”

Lunn’s journey to farming began after September 11, 2001. She and her husband were in the right-of-way industry. Soon after the 9/11 tragedy, federal money was steered towards Homeland Security and the war in Iraq and roads were not on the agenda. He was with a large engineering company and she owned her own company. July of 2002 was the month she found herself with no more contracts and he was laid off from his position. Lunn found herself wondering how she and her family would make it.

“We started with two goats and I told my husband we were going to be farmers,” Lunn said. “He thought I was crazy, and sometimes still does. But those two goats got us started and while we aren’t getting rich by any means we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel.”

Lunn’s farm is located in West Tampa near the Odessa area and is split between their homestead and some leased acreage a few miles away.

Luckily for her and her neighbors the property is zoned agricultural and is surround by equestrian properties.

“We work hard to be good neighbors and finally, as sustainability has come more mainstream acceptable the last few years, we are an example of what you can do on small acreage.” Lunn said. “We have good people around us that appreciate our efforts to be green and sustainable.”

Lunn’s product is labeled not for human consumption due to regulatory reasons and she markets her products towards the pet industry.

“The raw milk issue has been debated for years and at some point I feel it will become available for sale,” Lunn said. “But until then we sell it for pets per the state regulations. Of course I have no way of knowing what people do with it once it leaves my hand.”

Lunn markets her products on the web, through Facebook and Myspace and at some local health food stores and farmer’s markets. She has a dedicated following and loves meeting her customers.

“I have met some great people and made many new friendships,” Lunn said. “They come see me at the markets and hug my neck. I love that, especially the children.” As the Youth Dairy Goat Superintendent for the Florida State Fair and mentor to many FFA kids along the way, Lunn is very serious about passing the torch and training the next generation.

“As a local member of Slow Food USA, I was recently selected as a delegate to the world conference in Italy this fall which is such an honor.

Now I just need to raise my airfare,” says Lunn.

Lunn has gotten very knowledgeable over the years on the benefits of natural foods and again while she doesn’t sell it for human consumption she personally uses her products and thinks there is no comparison to the products you find on the shelf at the local supermarket.

“Our eggs for instance come from free range hens that are never fed hormones or antibiotics,” Lunn explained. “They have the prettiest golden yolks you will ever see and are loaded with nutrients and are very high in the omegas.

“Unfortunately we can’t sell them labeled for humans as the government stipulates all eggs sold must be put through a chlorine

wash. Personally I don’t want eggs washed in a chemical solution as an egg shell is porous. What goes on the shell also permeates to the yolk and white inside.”

Kefir, cultured from milk and traditional Russian grains, is in the yogurt type category and according to Lunn has numerous digestion benefits and is called a super probiotic in the nutrition field. The goat cheese is made from fresh raw goat milk and currently Lunn makes chevre, a soft spreadable cheese, feta and projects the blue cheese ready for the winter holiday season. Her egg market has also been growing rapidly and Lunn offers chicken, quail and duck eggs.

A satisfied customer, turned good friend of Lunn’s is Miriam Hoekstra of Safety Harbor.

“I have been a customer for at least five years and enjoy visiting the farm and using her products,” Hoekstra said. “The milk and eggs are excellent quality and I really like the way she runs things and takes such great care of all her animals.”

Not officially certified organic, Lunn tries to make it that way as much as possible. She has also fully committed to the green lifestyle.

“I tell people I’ll recycle anything that I think I’ll use in the next 20 years,” Lunn said. “Some people call me a pack rat. I call myself environmentally sensitive.”

Running a farm isn’t easy and The Dancing Goat is essentially a one person operation.

“I have a few local youth I hire to help out along with my kids, as my husband is now disabled and can’t help as he would like,” Lunn said. “My Mother cringes at the thought of me gathering eggs and milking goats. I tell her had it not been for that college education she and my Dad gave me, I may not be to the point I am with this business in just a few short years. I have learned a great deal and pretty much do what needs to be done. But I have to say hard work is rewarding.

Plus knowing you are creating a quality product, providing superior customer service and helping people out makes it even more special.”

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

35

Dave Zino As Executive Chef for National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the leading food authority on beef and veal, Dave Zino is responsible for concept development, ideation and recipe development and works very closely with the Checkoff-funded Beef and Veal Culinary Center. While developing concepts and recipes for both the retail and foodservice industries, Dave also works very closely with the Checkoff-funded Beef Innovations Group in evaluating and developing new beef products.

In his role as Executive Chef, Dave wears many hats that run the gamut from industry expert, to public speaker and television personality, to writer.

As the culinary authority on beef, Dave helped launch Beef U: A Foodservice Guide to Beef – a comprehensive, in-depth and customizable “train the trainer” program designed to provide the foodservice industry with the latest beef product information and knowledge. He also contributed to the recently published Healthy Beef Cookbook. In November 2007, Drovers – America’s beef business source – featured Dave as the “Dean of Beef University.”

An excellent public speaker and dynamic on-camera personality, Dave is frequently quoted on television and in print. In May 2007, he appeared on the popular Food Network program “Unwrapped” as part of their “On The Grill” episode on making the perfect burger. In addition, Dave travels the country giving presentations on beef to universities, professional organizations, culinary schools and industry groups.

Dave’s writing has been published in Food Product Design and will soon appear in the new book “An Integrated Approach to New Food Product Development.”

He is writing the chapter entitled, “The Right Preparation Technique,” which will focus on meeting consumers’ needs with fully tested products and recipes that really work. In 2004, Culinology magazine chose Dave as their “Featured Chef.”

Dave holds a Bachelors of Science Degree from Illinois State University and has earned three culinary certifications from Kendall College. He is a member of the Research Chef’s Association and the International Association of Culinary Professionals.

Look for more information from Dave Zino in next months issue!

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

37

Pioneering Our Community

By Sean Green There are few traditions that survive the economic and technological pressure of a growing society and even fewer founding traditions survive. One exception is Folsom Groves Inc. in Hillsborough County, Florida. This founding farm is a recipient of the Century Pioneer Family Farm certificate, distinguishing the Folsom family and it’s groves with over 100 years of continued family farm ownership and operation. The significance of a farm that has thrived for this long is invaluable; from its history we are gifted with the fruits of our community’s roots gaining a perspective that is too often buried in bureaucratic top soil. I am fortunate to have had a chance to spend an afternoon with Thomas Fred Folsom and his wife Ellen Folsom, the fourth generation of the Folsom family to live and work on the family farm. That afternoon became a bountiful discovery of the traditions, resources and challenges that have characterized the Folsom family farm for the past 105 years. I can share with sincerity that traditional southern hospitality and a genuine passion for the well being of the community are traditions that have not faded with time and are alive and well on the Folsom Family Farm, a characteristic that certainly distinguishes Folsom Groves Inc. from much of corporate America.

Green Franklin Folsom Family circa 1912 001.jpg: I wanted to speak with Mr. Folsom (Tom) and was excit(from Left to Right ) Family sitting on the steps Robert Folsom, Gordon ed about what could be learned from such an extraordinary Folsom, Noma Folsom, Thomas Franklin Folsom, Lula Folsom and Green farm history. Tom was hard to pin down for an interview, not because he was unwilling, but because his values are charac- Franklin Folsom. terized by a cultural ethic that is sadly diminishing; a strong tradition of a “farmer’s work ethic” is the way of life Tom has chosen. Early to rise, early to bed only bracket the day’s goals. He was always out in the field or elbow deep in a project he just couldn’t put down. Apologetically, Mrs. Folsom (Ellen) encouraged me to keep calling back, assuring me that her husband was honored that I was interested in their farm’s history and the Century Pioneer Family Farm distinction. When I was able to reach him at home, Ellen told me he was making homemade peach cobbler with the peaches harvested from the tree in the yard and would call back when he was done. When Tom called back I asked if he had finished the cobbler in jest and if it would be ok to meet over a cup of coffee so I could learn more about the farm (my treat). Tom acknowledged that the cobbler was finished and added that if I wanted a cup of coffee I could just come out to the house and they would make a pot. “Come on down to the house Sean, I’ll introduce you to the whole family and show you the farm,” this is the way Tom Folsom introduced himself. I was welcomed into the Folsom home with warm sincerity and hot cup of fresh coffee complimented with fantastic pecan brownies that Ellen had baked from a fresh harvest of the large pecan trees that shade the front porch of the farm home. I can imagine it was this extraordinary tradition of hospitality and trust that seeded the growth of Thonotosassa as we know it today.

The Folsom’s earliest recorded history in Florida are credited to Needham Brian Folsom and his brother Ebenezer Folsom, they came from North Carolina to purchase land in Jefferson County around 1828, only ten years after the First Seminole War brought troops led by Andrew Jackson through Florida. Florida had only been a territory for seven years and Ft Brooke was in its fourth year of establishment.

Almost immediately after Fort Brooke was established, a military road was constructed between Tampa’s Ft Brooke and Ocala’s Fort King, passing along the northwestern end of Lake Thonotosassa. In 1835 Seminole hostilities rekindled resulting in the ambush and slaughter of soldiers commanded by Francis L. Dade on their march from Fort Brooke to Fort King near what is now Bushnell, Florida. Needham Bryan Folsom’s son, William Thomas Folsom was born in 1835 and later served as a private in the Civil War, delivering goods to the confederacy during the third and final Seminole War from 1855 to 1858.

With the cessation of the third Seminole War, Tampa began a reconstruction phase and the Thonotosassa area gained popularity for its beauty and natural resources, attracting the pioneers that would later develop the land and augment the growth of the Tampa and Ybor City. William Thomas Folsom became the proud father of two boys that would later be counted as pioneers of Thonotosassa. Green Franklin Folsom was born in 1860, and his brother Thomas Cason in 1861. By the end of the civil war in 1865, most of the railway system that

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was established by Henry B Plant had been destroyed and was not restored for nearly 20 years. As the Tampa settlement grew, railways became more important modes of transportation enticing HB Plant to complete the Southern Florida Railroad through Seffner in 1882, making it a mail hub for the early Thonotosassa pioneers. Both Green Franklin and Thomas Cason moved to Tampa and worked for the Southern Florida Railway System, which later became the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad running from the city to Port Tampa.

Thonotosassa was linked to Tampa by rail, and grew industrious from its saw-mills and citrus groves, the railways changed ownership and railway design throughout its early history but Thomas Cason never changed his commitment to the railways or the future of the community, in fact; Thomas Cason redesigned many of the tracks through Tampa to meet the city’s rapidly changing needs.

In 1891 Emelia and Chester W. Chapin of New York settled in Tampa, purchased 110 acres of land and began developing the Bayshore area. They formed the Consumers Electric Light and Street Railway Company providing service throughout the community. By 1893 the wealthy Emelia Chapin’s personal trolley car, Fair Lady was built so she could shop, entertain friends and travel to the Ballast Point Pavilion from her Bayshore mansion. Thomas Cason remained an employee of the railway system that later became the Tampa Electric Company (TECO) trolley system serving as superintendent of the street railway system. To this date, Thomas Cason Folsom is the longest paid employee in the history of TECO. Both Green Franklin and Thomas Cason continued working for the railway system while maintaining a pinery (Pine Apple Farm) in the Bayshore area. Green Franklin Folsom bought land in Thonotosassa from Clara Clendening, and became the first owner of the still standing Folsom Family Farm, adding it to the tax records in 1893.

The Folsom Farm Home was adorned with cypress shutters, roof shingles and wood sash windows. Listed as the only plank house left standing in Hillsborough County, the Folsom home was produced from the logging operations on the Hillsborough River. A hand dug well of 23ft provided water for the Folsom Farm, the red bricks surrounding the well are thought to have been created from the clay quarry that provided the namesake for the Clay Pit Road area not far from the house.

To care for the farm animals and crops, Tom Folsom and his family carry on a tradition that includes enduring the tropi-

cal extremes that shepherd most of us into air-conditioned sanctuaries. He must be a mechanic to repair farm equipment that he cannot afford to replace.

Tom must be a carpenter to build or repair storage facilities and a plumber to hydrate his crops and animals and Green Franklin Folsom Family must understand (from Left To Right) meteorology and Boy on horse is Robert Folsom, boy on stump soil ecology to do is Gordon Folsom, Lula Folsom is standing so efficiently. Tom’s behind him, Green Franklin holding Noma understanding of Folsom, lady in black Martha Folsom, Green landscape engineer- Franklin’s mother. Oh, horse’s name is Dolly ing prevents soil erosion and creates protective wind barriers for his home and the surrounding community. As original pioneers, the Folsom family and their farm have been a prominent influence in the community establishing the first known one room schoolhouse near the current location of Thonotosassa Elementary. Ellen Folsom, Tom’s wife was awarded the Pioneer Researcher Certificate for her contribution in the documentation of the history of the Folsom family as Florida pioneers. As a result of her research, Tom Folsom, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren are distinguished as original pioneers of Florida, acknowledged with Florida Pioneer Descendents Certificates issued by the Florida State Genealogical Society. When we recognizing and preserve the history and traditions of pioneers such as the Folsom family and Folsom Groves Inc., we are also preserving the founding principles on which our community was built, and in doing so, we sow the seeds from which a more abundant future can grow.

Green Franklin Folsom Family (From Left to Right) Green Franklin Folsom, Robert Folsom, Gordon Folsom, and Lula Folsom

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

39

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40

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

50#

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

41

RELEASED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA/IFAS (U.S. PVP PENDING)

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42

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

1 results from trials at The University of Georgia 2 results from trials at The University of Florida

Moving to NEW LOCATION in Oct. 2010 Over 12,000 Sq.Ft.

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SEPTEMBER 2010

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12880 Hwy. 92 E., Dover, FL 33527 • 813.659.4120 • 813.659.1584 Fax 44

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

By Tracy Cox Most of us believe that nothing is forever, or at least we are told that, but Robert McElheny, Gator Ford’s Vice-president and General Manger, believes that with outstanding customer service and competitive prices, customers can be.

“We treat each customer as if they are our last one. They are not just a number to us,” Robert said.

“We want to keep them as a forever customer.”

Gator Ford, located at 11780 Gateway Blvd. in Tampa, boasts a 65-70 percent repeat business from their customers. And it’s not the fast-talking gators starring in the dealership’s television commercials directing us to take exit 10 on Interstate 4 that keep the folks coming back time after time. It is the award winning customer service they experience, whether buying a new car, bringing their truck in for service, or picking up a part for their existing vehicle.

The keys to offering excellent customer service, according to Robert, a 35-year veteran of the auto industry, are hiring the best people and being loyal to their longevity with the company. Even in these difficult and challenging economic times, Gator Ford runs a lean operation and has not had to lay off any of its employees. Some of their highly trained staff has been with them as long as 20 years.

“We believe in long term employees who are empowered to do the right thing,” Robert said of himself and partner, David Kilcoyne, President. “You want someone with longevity with the same excitement as the newer guys.”

One of the nation’s largest Ford truck dealerships, Gator Ford’s main focus is trucks and SUVs and having the Ford name and reputation behind them is a huge draw for customers all over America. Internet sales, the biggest change that Robert says he has seen in the industry, make their inventory of new and pre-owned Ford cars and trucks, including the ever popular hard-working F-series, new SUVs, hybrids, and Crossover vehicles available worldwide. Visit their website at www.gatorford.com.

“Trucks have evolved from a work-ethic truck to a luxury vehicle with interiors as nice as luxury cars,” Robert said. “Ford has the best built truck and people in this world need trucks as people haulers and product movers.”

Remember the draw of customers from all over America? They recently had a customer come all the way from Texas to purchase a used Mustang.

“With the Internet, your audience is so much bigger,” Robert said. “The used auto market is very strong. It is difficult to find the right quality used vehicle at the right price.”

The downturn in the economy has increased Gator Ford’s parts and service business as customers keep their cars and trucks longer.

“On the average, we see a cycle of three to four years for replacing vehicles due to pricing and extended reliability,” said Robert. “Ford vehicles are on the high end of the reliability factor.”

The award winning service department of Ford Motor Company-trained technicians is open extended hours of 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday - Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. With a full-service facility that can handle 30-35 foot vehicles, the certified technicians service and repair Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury cars, trucks, and SUVs, RVs and motor homes, and diesel vehicles.

“We have people bring commercial vehicles and RVs from all over the country,” said Robert. “We have the right equipment and

the trained people. We work on chassis, which are mostly Ford.”

While customers wait for repairs and service, they can have a snack at Gator Bites, a cafe for their c o nve n i e n c e , surf on the free wireless Internet service, or relax in a television viewing area.

The parts department sells to individuals and businesses.

Internet sales have also impacted that division of Gator Ford’s business by shipping parts worldwide.

“We sell to garages and individual owners who do their own repairs and maintenance,” Robert said. “Instead of a guy buying a new truck, he is fixing his old one. A lot of businesses also have their own technicians to do repairs and maintenance.”

Gator Ford, under Robert’s management, has always done business with the philosophy of running lean and maintaining strict inventory control. They have seen all business segments of their customers, especially the construction industry, take a major hit with the struggling American economy. Their current operations strategy is to stay lean, but more importantly to keep their employees employed and to continue to offer the award winning customer service they have built their business and reputation on.

“We are privately owned, we can make decisions right here, right now,” said Robert. “If we can just weather the storm, we will see good things on the other side.”

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

45

Gentle

GARDENING Tip of the Month:

By Craig Chandler

A New Disease that Can Kill Certain Types of Palms

Texas Phoenix palm decline (TPPD), so named because it was first found in Texas on Phoenix canariensis (the Canary Island date palm), has been killing Canary Island date palms, edible date palms, and cabbage palms in Hillsborough County over the last few years (Fig. 1). The disease is caused by a bacteria-like organism called a phytoplasma.

This type of organism is transmitted from plant to plant by piercing-sucking insects that tap into the plant’s vascular system. The specific piercing-sucking insect that transmits TPPD is still unknown.

Drs. Nigel Harrison and Monica Elliott, plant pathologists at UF’s Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, have written an online publication (http://edis. ifas.ufl.edu/pp163) that describes TPPD. Here is a synopsis of that publication: Symptoms Fruit drops prematurely and within a few days. (This symptom will only be observed if the palm is mature enough to produce fruit and the flowers and fruit have not been trimmed from the palm.)

Fronds quickly turn reddish-brown to dark brown or gray. This discoloration starts on the oldest fronds and progresses toward the younger growth. This symptom might be confused with discoloration due to nutrient deficiency (e.g., potassium). Also, if the dying or dead leaves are being regularly removed, this symptom may not have a chance to manifest itself.

Death of the spear leaf (i.e., the emerging, unexpanded leaf). Death of the spear leaf indicates the palm’s bud has died and no new leaves will develop.

In date palms, this occurs when less than one-third of the oldest fronds have become discolored, while in cabbage palms, approximately two-thirds of the oldest leaves will have discolored before the spear leaf dies.

Death of the spear leaf may not always be obvious. Both date species and cabbage palms have numerous young leaves surrounding the spear leaf. Unless you see the spear leaf hanging from the canopy or on the ground, you will probably need to examine the canopy up close to determine if a healthy spear leaf is present. Also, as the young spear leaf of date palms is often enclosed in a thin, brown sheath (which tears like paper), be careful not to confuse this sheath with a dead spear leaf.

If the spear leaf has died, the palm should be removed as soon as possible.

The diseased palm serves as a source of the phytoplasma, which can be transmitted to still-healthy, TPPD-susceptible palms.

If TPPD symptoms are present, but the spear leaf has not died, therapeutic treatment of the disease can be achieved by application of the antibiotic oxytetracycline HCl, administered by liquid injection into the trunk every four months.

The only source for oxytetracycline HCl -- a product registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency -- is TreeSaver® (http://www.palmtreesaver. com). This product is for distribution and use only in Florida.

A molecular diagnostic test is necessary to confirm the presence of the phytoplasma. Information on how to submit a tissue sample and cost of the lab diagnosis can be found at http://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/pdfs/LY-TPPD-Trunk-Sampling.pdf.

An alternative to trying to save a palm with TPPD is to replace it with another type of plant or palm that is not susceptible to TPPD – although the resistance of various palm species to TPPD is still not clearly defined.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

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47

SEPTEMBER 18 & 24

OCTOBER 15 & 23

NOVEMBER 12

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

COVER TO COVER

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Ralph Allocco & Second Wind before and after the show

SEPTEMBER 25

OCTOBER 22

NOVEMBER 13

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

GEORGE GALFO’S MYSTICS

RICHIE MERRITT

Original founding member, George Galfo brings his Mystics to the Red Rose Dining Room singing their hit song “Hushabye” and many more memorable Doo Wop favorites! DESTINY performs before and after the show.

Richie Merritt, of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds.

OCTOBER 23

OCTOBER 1

SOUL MUSIC NIGHT WITH THE

MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

LEGENDARY DELFONICS REVUE AND ARTHUR “SUGAR BEAR” AIKEN

JOHNNY ALSTON’S

A dynamite crowd pleaser! DESTINY performs before and after the show.

Featuring Grammy Nominated & Award Winning Music in one great night! The Legendary DELFONICS TRIBUTE singing the hit –“La La Means I Love You,” plus much more, and lead singer of The Original Blue Notes, Arthur “Sugar Bear” Aiken.

Hear songs like “If You Don’t Know Me By Now,” “The Love I Lost” & many more. Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock & Roll Revue will perform before and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

OCTOBER 2 & 8

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

OCTOBER 9

OCTOBER 29

JOHNNY ALSTON’S

COVER TO COVER

MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds also performs before and after the show.

OCTOBER 30

OCTOBER 16

LOLA & THE SAINTS

Doo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday – “Forever in Love,” “Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.” PLUS P.J. LEARY

& THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS with special guest KEN BRADY

(Lead Singer of The Casinos), featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

NOVEMBER 5 & 13

JOHNNY ALSTON’S

“LET’S HANG ON” – A TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLIE AND THE FOUR SEASONS

Hear the hits from one of the 60’s top bands The Four Seasons!“Sherry,” “Ronnie,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Dawn,”“ Ragdoll,” “Let’s Hang On,” and many, many more.

P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds open and close the show. This event benefits the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

NOVEMBER 19

DESTINY

Put on your dancing shoes as this band features adult contemporary music with tunes ranging from Jimmy Buffet to Ricky Martin.

NOVEMBER 20

“A NIGHT OF LEGENDS” SHIRLEY ALSTON REEVES AND BOBBY HENDRICKS

Shirley Alston Reeves, former lead of the Shirelles and Bobby Hendricks, formerly of Bill Pickney’s Original Drifters perform, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds with Ken Brady of the original Casinos before and after the show in a Supper Club Atmosphere in the Ballroom.

COMING SOON

MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

Johnny takes us back in time to an era of great sounds from the Motown period. No cover charge for show with dinner purchase

NOVEMBER 6

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

NEW YEAR’S EVE TRIBUTES TO

ROD STEWART & NEIL DIAMOND

MYSTICAL MEMORIES - VEGAS STYLE WITH THE MYSTICS & RON MCPHATTER

SHOW RESERVATIONS Please call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper club atmosphere with a four course meal (seats also available for the show only – for a lower price!)

NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room with the purchase of dinner.

Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates when staying overnight after a show!

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

TEL: 813.752.3141

I-4 Exit 21• 2011 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563

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Mrs. Evelyn Madonia Owner/General Manager

SEPTEMBER 2010

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Note: While every attempt is made to provide as accurate information on this property offering as possible, FISCHBACH LAND COMPANY, LLC does not guarantee the accurace therof. Buyer shall rely entirely on their own information and inspection of property and records.

50

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

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SEPTEMBER 2010

51

By Carol C. Weathersbee Feeding local families fresh, wholesome food is something Shawn and Jennifer Steed thoroughly enjoy. Together they own Steed Farms, a diverse 17‐acre farming operation in Plant City. Shawn said, “I don’t know how to explain it, but it feels like a calling … like something I was meant to do.”

The passion for horticulture is definitely in the family genes, as Shawn recalled, “My grandfather had a dairy farm in Ireland, and he also had some vegetables and transplants that he would sell to other growers.” As a child growing up in Florida, Shawn remembers, “My mom and dad really enjoyed gardening. We had a small vegetable garden for the family, but my parents also enjoyed working with roses and other ornamentals.”

On July 4, 2000, Shawn rented greenhouse space, with a location his future wife found, and began ArborStarts, Inc., a wholesale nursery licensed to grow starter propagated plants (or liners) for other growers. Shawn said, “We also grow trees, shrubs, groundcovers, flowering plants, and grasses for the landscape, but this is strictly wholesale not retail.” In 2003, Shawn purchased the acreage where the farm is presently located.

In 2008, Shawn and Jennifer expanded their business into growing organic produce. “We are not certified organic, but we are growing everything without the use of synthetic chemicals,” shared Jennifer. “We use only certified organic fertilizers, compost, manure and pesticides.

Our seeds are purchased organically as well, so our customers know they are getting quality produce that is organically grown.”

“We start by planting trays of seeds in the greenhouse for many varieties. We grow the seed until it reaches the transplant stage, which is when it is ready for planting in the field,” said Jennifer. This method of growing in the greenhouse is preferred as Jennifer explained, “Because we don’t use conventional sprays for weed control, this give us a jump on the weeds.”

The vegetable production began as a family garden, and quickly became more than the Steed family could consume. “We were growing more than we could eat or preserve,” said Shawn. “So we started selling wholesale, and it wasn’t long before folks were asking if they could buy direct from us. That’s when we discovered Community Supported Agriculture (CSA).”

CSA is a partnership program between farmers and consumers, which allows the farmer to share the farming risks and rewards with the consumer. Consumers pledge their financial support to a local farm thus helping with the farm’s expenses and paying the farmer’s salary. In return, consumers reap a weekly bounty of fresh produce full of flavor and nutrition grown by the local farmer.

“We stagger the growth cycle throughout the year which allows us to get a wide variety of produce,”

Continued on next page

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

said Jennifer. Steed Farms will offer a variety of leafy greens, mustard greens, kale, collard greens, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, scallions, eggplant, cabbage, carrots, herbs, and some Asian vegetables such as Bok Choy and Napa Cabbage when their season begins in November.

“Each week our CSA members receive a full box of about 10-14 seasonal vegetables as well as seasonal fruits such as citrus, peaches, blackberries, nectarines, grapes and more,” Shawn explained.

The Steeds offer UF/IFAS Extension fact sheets on food preparation and members share their recipes through the Steed Farms’ blogspot: www.steedfarm. blogspot.com.

Operating Steed Farms is a lot of hard work, but has become a family affair. Shawn holds a master’s degree in horticulture and works full time with the UF/IFAS Extension as an extension agent for environmental horticulture production, and Jennifer works part time as a clinical audiologist for Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center. Shawn credits his dad, Andrew, with a lot of the farm’s success. “If it weren’t for my dad, it would be difficult for Jennifer and me to continue,” Shawn said. “My dad is the backbone of Steed Farms and we really appreciate all that he does.”

The Steed’s children are also enjoying the farm. Four-year old Anna giggled and said, “I like giving customers their food, but mostly I like looking for bugs.”

Two-year old Nate says he enjoys riding the tractor with his dad.

Steed Farms is currently serving 13 families through CSA, but anticipates at least 25 families this fall season. “It is really growing in popularity,” said Jennifer.

“People truly appreciate getting fresh produce and we feel privileged to be able to contribute to the community and to local families in this way.”

To learn more about Steed Farms and/or to partner with the Steeds for fresh produce, you can contact Shawn and Jennifer Steed at 813-495-6812.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

53

54

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

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SEPTEMBER 2010

55

Growing Up

By Mark Cook

As I approach age 40 (October 26th for those counting, gifts encouraged) I have come to the realization that my life is half over. Statistics say more than half over. Heck before this column reaches print it might be 100 percent over. But lets go with stats and just say its 57 percent over. Forgive me for sounding like an old timer, but where in the world did it all go? It was just yesterday I was sitting in Mrs. Varnum’s first grade classroom at Pinecrest Elementary literally learning how to read See Spot Run. Now I sit here on a Sunday night it’s 11:32 p.m and I’m fighting sleep.

As a kid you can’t even comprehend age 40. I remember in 1986 my Dad was preparing for his 20th high school reunion. I remember thinking, gee, he’s really old. I’m now two years older than he was on that day back in 1986.

I grew up in the 1970’s in Eastern Hillsborough County surrounded by family. Forgive me for sounding cliché’ but things in the 70’s were much different than they are now. There were times when we would get on our bikes on a summer morning and not return home until dark. And in the words of Jeff Foxworthy, we didn’t consider it a good day unless we had to take our clothes off on the back porch and rinse off with a water hose before we were allowed inside. My sister and I spent a lot of time crossing the cow pasture between our families property when we were young, heading over to our cousins Eddie and Scott Jacob’s house. Most summers were spent at their house or ours or sometimes across the street at the Norris family home.

We played whatever sport was in season. Football, wiffle ball,

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

soccer, and even played hockey in the Norris’s garage using clothes hampers for goals. While I was never a star athlete in high school, I still throw a mean curve ball learned on the front lawn of Wade Norris’ house on Link Road.

We had mini-bikes, BB guns, and bows and arrows. We climbed trees, walked the railroad tracks to the Alafia River, got chased by the neighborhood dogs on our bikes, caught snakes. We bought Red Man chewing tobacco from Mr. Earl Allen’s country store (telling him it was for our Dad of course) and chewed it under the Nichols Road Creek Bridge until we threw up. We walked the roadsides collecting Coke bottles. A nickel for the small ones and a dime for the large ones. We found Playboy magazines on the side of the road and if they were wet from the rain we would sneak them home and use a hair dryer to dry them out.

We built ramps to jump with our bikes, tried to jump on the back of our cows, built forts out of fallen pine trees, got numerous cases of ringworm and had many fist fights. We convinced our cousin Scott to jump out of a tree house with a Publix paper bag telling him it would work like a parachute. We got our own switches from the peach tree and took our spankings. We didn’t called DCF. We were too scared to. We watched cartoons on Saturday mornings until noon while eating Apple Jacks or Count Chocula, went outside and played until Dr. Paul Bearer and Creature Feature came on later that day. We would go back outside play some more and if our moms weren’t home we watched Benny Hill with our fathers in the evening then listened to Gordon Solie

call wrestling action on Championship Wrestling from Florida.

We had nightmares about the Prince of Darkness Kevin Sullivan, but we were comforted always knowing Dusty Rhoades would whip him the following week.

We were in church for Sunday School, went to junior church (Christian puppets still give me the creeps) ate a big dinner and were back in church Sunday night hoping the altar call didn’t last too long so we didn’t miss another rerun of Escape to Witch Mountain on The Wide World of Disney before going to bed.

Wednesday night prayer meetings weren’t an option. Neither was vacation Bible School. We went to church camp, used palmetto fans to stay cool, and blew gnats out of our face while saying the Pledge at the flagpole every morning. We bought 25 cent cokes from the campground machines, ate Now and Laters until we got sick and avoided going to the restroom in the camp dorms (no doors) for nearly a week. We took a dose of castor oil the following Saturday. We felt better by Sunday.

We said yes sir and no ma’am. We feared any adult knowing they had our parents blessing to discipline us. We never argued the teacher was wrong at school and dreaded report card day, parent conferences, and scholarship warnings. We hugged our Granny’s and Grandpa’s neck every chance we got, spent the night with our grandparents on Friday nights, watches the Dukes of Hazzard and tried to stay awake to see who shot J.R. on Dallas. Monday nights we watched Little House on the Prairie, hated when our Dad’s watched M*A*S*H, and could stay up until the Walton’s all told each other good night on Thursdays. We had five channels to watch, went through hundreds of dollars in aluminum foil making antennas to be able to get channel 10 to come in, and went to bed listening to the radio in our pillow cases hoping we didn’t get caught. The Flintstone’s helped us get the PopTarts down before school. I still miss the Great Gazoo.

We got excited going to the old Plant City Mall, hoping to get an ice cream cone or a slice of pizza at the pizza place inside, begged to go to Toy King, but most often we spent what felt like an eternity playing in the button bins at Fabric King while our mothers bought McCall patterns and polyester fabric to make church dresses with. We saw Grease and Saturday Night Fever at the Star-Lite Drive-in and at times were more interested in the mosquito coils our parents would hang on the drivers side window than the movie that was playing.

Kindergarten was half days. I still know The Letter People song. Weekday afternoons after school we watched the Three Stooges, Gilligan’s Island, the Brady Bunch and the Partridge Family.

As we got older we lost pets that mysteriously ran away to some farm we could never visit. Later we lost friends from school and older family members. We went to our first funerals. We graduated school, got jobs, spouses, more bills than we can handle, had kids and buried more friends and family. Some even lost one or both parents. Thank God that’s not my case. We cried but not in front of others, especially our guy friends. We were tough.

We were scared, but mostly we were happy.

It’s now 12:41 a.m. and my ability to stay awake is a losing battle. A sign of old age I suppose. But before I go to bed I need to chew some Rolaids and find a late night snack.

Anyone know where I can find a box of Count Chocula these days? Wait never mind, too much sugar. Guess I’ll just eat a fiber bar or a couple prunes.

Mark Cook Tribune outdoor writer and Y’all Magazine Florida editor writes a monthly column for In the Filed and welcome suggestions and ideas for future stories. He can be reached at mark@inthefieldmagazine. com

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

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A Closer Look: Asian Citrus Psyllid (Diaphorina citri)

A Closer Look: Asian Citrus Psyllid

By Sean Green

Regarded as one of the worst citrus diseases in history, Yellow Dragon Disease (Huanglongbing), is a phloem degenerating disease caused by the Proteobacteria (Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus).

The taxonomic distinction Candidatus, indicates that this bacteria cannot be cultured in a lab, making it difficult to research. The bacteria destroy the inner bark, (phloem), which is used by the plant to transport nutrients, consequently, when diseased, the plant can neither absorb nutrients nor develop seed bearing fruit. The bacteria rely on a vector organism to spread, for this disease; the Asian Citrus Psyllid (Diaphorina citi) is the vector that carries the disease in much the same way mosquitoes carry disease to human beings.

Until 2005 few symptoms of the disease were reported in Florida. Exotic diseases that are imported to Florida significantly increase production costs and decrease profitability for Florida growers. Florida is one of the largest citrus growing regions worldwide. This disease impacts our competitive advantage in global agriculture. All citrus and related ornamental plants are hosts for Huanglongbing. When infected, a chronic decline in the grove is expected, killing the tree within three to eight years.

Signs of the disease begin in one branch and spread though the tree. Symptoms include mottling and yellowing of leaf, midrib and veins, and chlorosis. Fruit are small, green on one end, irregularly shaped, and bitter. Premature fruit drops are common and seeds are aborted.

The bacterium found in Florida is the Asian form, tolerating both cool and warm weather. The Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri) is the natural vector for the disease and the greatest concern.

We know that psyllid populations are influenced by the host trees age, nutritional health, and humidity. This pest attacks new citrus leaf growth, it’s salivary toxins cause the new leaf tips to twist or burn back. Studies of a similar species (T. erythreae) link the leaf hardness with egg deposit, explaining the preference of the youngest flush growth being attacked. As little as 15 minutes of feeding on an infected tree are enough for Huanglongbing to infect the psyllid. The bacteria multiply within the circulatory fluids and remain latent for eight to twelve days, after which, transmission is possible.

The Asian Citrus Psyllid is thought to have spread through Florida on Murraya. Long distance spread of Huanglongbing however, has spread through the export of infected budwood and citrus. The disease is also transmitted by grafting, but not all buds from infected trees carry the bacterium. Preventing this disease will be easier than eradication or control of it. It is important to keep Huanglongbing out of American budwood supplies and nursery stock and detect infections before they become established. To date, control of the disease consists of planting citrus germplasm that is free of the Huanglongbing bacteria, destruction of infected citrus plants, and control of the vector (Asian Citrus Psyllid) with insecticides. Florida’s mandatory Citrus Budwood Protection Program helps to prevent imported sources of the disease, by helping farmers identify sources of propagation and testing strategies. Foreign Countries with Huanglongbing learn to manage the disease enough to continue citrus production.

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Tamarixia radiate for example, is an effective parasitoid of the citrus psyllid, (Diaphorina citri Kuwayama), in Asia and has been intentionally released in Florida as a natural control. More research will be needed before we can do the same in the United States.

Antibiotics such as penicillin G sodium, biocide 2, and 2-dibromo3-nitrilopropionamide, are potential treatments for infected citrus plants according to the Agriculture Research Service. Until we understand the psyllid, Florida citrus growers attempt to slow it’s populations with broad spectrum pesticides, however, an infected adult psyllid carries the disease a lifetime, transmitting it faster than pesticides can kill the psyllid. We hope the following guidelines will assist growers in the identification of the Asian citrus psyllid.

Eggs are 0.3 mm elongated football shaped and are found on new flush. Color ranges from pale to yellow, then orange as they reach maturity in 2-4 days. There are five nymphal instars completing the life cycle range from 15 to 47 days.

Nymphs, found on new growth but are difficult to see, colored green to yellowish-orange with no abdominal spots they resemble green scale, but psyllid nymphs have large wing pads.

Adults are about the size of aphids, mottled brown with a light brown head, the wings have a flattened x-pattern when viewed from the side. Antennae have black tips and living insects are covered with white dusty secretion. They are found in large numbers on stems and the lower sides of the leaves sitting upside down at a 45 degree angle and exhibit jumping behavior distinguishing them from aphids.

Farmers that suspect an infection are urged to contact Florida DOACS, Division of Plant Industry Helpline for assistance.1-800-282-5153

Photos Courtesy of USDA

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

59

Lt. Col. Altizer and some of the pilots he has trained in front of “Fast Eddie’s” T-6 training plane at Columbus Air Force Base

By: Brent Davis

A

ir Force Lieutenant Colonel Eddie Altizer says “I plan on flying just as long as I can.” On active duty with the Air Force Reserve for over 24 years of combined service now, Lt. Col. Altizer began his career with the Air Force in 1986. “I am an Air Force pilot,” he said. “I fly the same planes, get paid the same, but I am attached to the Air Force Reserve Command.”

Currently in his 18th year of being assigned to Columbus Air Force Base in North Mississippi, Lt. Col. Altizer, call sign “Fast Eddie,” trains Air Force pilots. “When they leave here, the get their wings,” he shared. Columbus Air Force Base is a 5000 acre base where over 300 Air Force pilots are trained every year.

“We fly over 55,000 square miles of air space from here, training over five southern states,” Lt. Col. Altizer explained. “Columbus Air Force Base is one of the five primary USAF training bases in the United States.”

Lt. Col. Altizer has trained pilots in supersonic tandem seat T-38’s, which have a top speed of over 700 MPH. He has trained pilots in sub-sonic T-37’s, a twin engine jet that saw combat during the Vietnam Conflict. Currently, he is training pilots in the T-6 Texan II, a very agile and maneuverable single engine tandem seat turbo prop. “This plane is very similar to the 60

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P-51’s,” Lt. Col. Altizer shared.

Eddie Altizer graduated from Plant City High School in Plant City, Florida in 1978. Eddie’s Father, John Altizer, taught agriculture and biology at Turkey Creek High School and Turkey Creek Middle School in Plant City for over 35 years. At age 76 Mr. Altizer still teaches at the Simmons Career Center in Plant City.

“All my life I remember my dad farming,” Eddie says. “I grew up farming with my dad.”

Eddie’s wife, Tammy Sodders Altizer is also from Plant City. She grew up on a Plant City strawberry farm. “My dad started farming strawberries when I was in the tenth grade,” she said. “He has now been farming strawberries for over 30 years.”

Eddie and Tammy have been married over 27 years. They have two grown children. Their son Ed is also in the Air Force. Ed is 26 years old and flies HC130’s in Georgia. Their daughter Ashley is 23 and just finished her first year at pharmacy school.

Lt. Col. Altizer saw action in the early 1990’s in Desert Shield. “I flew KC-135R Strato Tankers, the planes that refuel combat and strategic airlift jets while they are in mid-air. It is kind of scary flying a huge gas can that can’t defend itself over enemy territory,” Lt.

Salutes Lt. Col. Eddie Altizer for his 24 years of service to his country. Thank You, Fast Eddie. ®

izer Eddie Altizer and his Dad, John Alt

Tammy S odd from her d ers Altizer enjoys a s ad’s far m in Plant C trawberr y ity, Florid a

Col. Altizer said. “But we had great escort fighter jets and we never had a single problem.”

When he was about 12 years old Eddie remembers going to the Plant City Strawberry Festival with his Grandmother. As Air Force jets flew over the parade, Eddie told his Grandmother, “One day I’m going to do that.”

In 2006, flying out of Mac Dill Air Force Base, Lt. Col. Eddie Altizer pulled his wheels up and prepared to fly over the Plant City Strawberry Festival Parade.

“We got lined up and I’m here to tell you that was a very proud moment for me. I thought about my Grandmother watching from heaven and the tears started to flow.”

Tammy shows off a flat of fresh strawberries from her dad’s farm INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

61

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AGRITECH 2010 The Florida Strawberry Growers Association held its annual event August 17-18 at the John R. Trinkle building on the Plant City campus of Hillsborough Community College.

The 28th Annual Educational Seminar and Trade Show allows growers to earn valuable CEU’s, fellowship with other growers and representatives and enjoy great food.

Topics covered included SWFWMD Regulatory Changes, research presentations, labor issues, media training, breeding program and others.

Sponsors included Diamond R Fertilizer, Gulf Coast Turf & Tractor, Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, Proware Services, LLC, Sunnyridge Farms, Temple Inland and Tradewinds Power Corporation.

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SEPTEMBER 2010

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In tests conducted at Louisiana Tech University, during the coldest winter in recent memory, cattle grazed on Prine gained .4 lbs per day more than cattle grazed on Marshall.

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Todd Balog

Stingray Chevrolet would like to welcome to their Collision Repair Facility. Todd Balog is relocating the Collision Center at Lott-Mather Buick-Pont-GMC to our dealership. Todd has been with the Buick-Pont-GMC franchise and involved in the automotive business for 21 years. He has been very involved with our community and is well known for his open and honest business practices. We invite all his family and friends to stop in and say hello and welcome him to his new home.

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

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PROPERTY TAX TIME AGAIN

By Christian Smith Last month Rob Turner, Property Appraiser for Hillsborough County, spoke to the Plant City Lions Club about the tax notices that will be sent out for this year. He said the responsibility of his office is to identify, locate and fairly appraise all real and tangible personal property within Hillsborough County. His findings are submitted to the taxing authorities and they set the millage (tax) rates.

In his update he brought out the fact that land used for commercial agriculture purposes may be eligible for the special agricultural classification of “Greenbelt.” That classification is determined by the following guidelines; 1 – Length of time the land has been used for commercial agricultural purposes.

2 – Continuous commercial agricultural use.

3 - Purchase price.

4 – Size, as it relates to a specific use.

5 – Land has been maintained according to commercial agricultural practices, such as fertilizing, liming, tilling, mowing and reforesting.

6 – Other factors that may be applicable.

One area most farmers and ranchers have difficulty understanding is the Tangible Personal Property Tax. That is, paying tax on machinery, computers, supplies, furniture and other farm related items that you paid a tax on when you purchased them. This tax is paid on the same items each year.

As a farmer or rancher with $25,000 or less you will not be required to pay this tax.

To qualify for and obtain a $25,000 exemption, you must file a special Tangible Personal Property return by April 1. If you have questions about this you should call Rob Turner’s office at 813-272-6100.

March 1 is the deadline for exemptions for agricultural classifications. By the way, Rob Turner’s office normally mails out your tax bill on the last business day of October. So check your mailbox on October 30th and the following week for your property and Tangible Tax bill.

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DISTRICT TO FUND LARGER SHARE OF AGRICULTURAL IRRIGATION PROJECTS The Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board voted to begin the rulemaking process to increase its share of costs for projects that reduce groundwater pumping for frost/freeze protection in the Dover/Plant City area.

The increase will be part of the District’s Facilitating Agricultural Resource Management Systems, or FARMS, Program. FARMS is a cost-share program to reduce groundwater use through water conservation best management practices in agricultural operations.

The proposed change makes projects that reduce frost/ freeze quantities from the Upper Floridan aquifer in the Dover/ Plant City area eligible for cost-share funding of 75 percent.

Currently, FARMS cost-share rates are generally capped at 50 percent for projects that will provide either water quality or water quantity benefits. Project cost-share increases to 75 percent for projects that incorporate both water quality and quantity benefits. Projects that reduce withdrawals of permitted quantities from the Upper Floridan aquifer by 50 percent or more can also qualify for the 75 percent cost share.

During the 11-day January 2010 freeze event, the combined pumping of Dover area farmers dropped the aquifer level 60 feet in some locations and caused 140 sinkholes and impacts to more than 750 wells. The District has developed a management strategy that includes incentives to reduce groundwater use over time, well construction standards and regulatory limitations on water use in the area.

To implement one component of the strategy, the Board voted to create a new water use caution area and set a minimum aquifer level in the Dover/Plant City area. Another component was implemented in August, when the District expanded the Dover Special Well Construction Area. Well construction standards in this area require wells to be dug deeper than typical residential wells.

The District has held a public workshop and several technical work sessions since January to receive feedback from key stakeholders. The District is planning another public workshop Sept. 14 in Plant City to solicit input from other public stakeholders.

There are 63 FARMS projects district wide that are complete and operational, and 28 additional projects have been Board-approved and are in the contract development or construction stage. The 91 total Board-approved projects are estimated to have a groundwater offset of 14.9 million gallons of water per day. The overall goal of the program is to offset 40 million gallons of ground water per day within the District’s Southern Water Use Caution Area by the year 2025, as well as achieve groundwater offsets in other areas of the District as opportunities arise.

To qualify for FARMS funding, projects must be located in

the District’s area of responsibility and include one or more of the following strategies: · Use an alternative water supply or technology to reduce groundwater use. · Improve irrigation water quality and watershed ecology by reducing reliance on poorer quality groundwater. · Restore or augment water resources and ecology in priority areas.

For more information about the FARMS program, visit the District’s web site at WaterMatters.org/farms/.

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SEPTEMBER 2010

71

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THE TAMPA DOWNTOWN

By Kayla Lewis Tiffany Ferrechia wanted a place to buy local produce for her organic, natural catering company, Eternal Balance, and also for her personal chef business, but could not find it in her community. So she decided to start a market that offered fresh, natural products. She wrote a proposal to the Tampa Downtown Partnership, which they accepted, and started the Tampa Downtown Market. “We put on the first fresh market for downtown Tampa,” Tiffany said.

Tiffany explained that they are preparing for their third season. The market season runs October through May and is open Fridays. “We started in Lykes Gas Light Square Park,” she said, and went on to add that they opened with 41 vendors.

“The second season we had between 40 and 80 vendors on any given Friday.” With the added number of vendors they moved to Madison Street. This season the Tampa Downtown Market will be held on Franklin Street and will host 40 to 50 vendors. “We have to downsize a bit,” Tiffany said.

The Tampa Downtown Market is not the only fresh market that Tiffany has started. In October, on the second Sunday of every month, she manages a market at Hillsborough High School in Seminole Heights. She explained that this market hosts 120 vendors and is open from 9:00am to 2:00pm. Tiffany is also in the process of starting up a market that will be open the first Saturday of the month, and will be located in New Tampa at the shops at the Wire Grass shopping center in Wesley Chapel.

The Tampa Downtown market has a diverse group of vendors who each contribute something unique to the market.

Their vendors include Gary Parke, who owns HydroFarm, a

hydroponic farm that grows vegetables. Then there is the Dancing Goat, an area goat farm that offers goat’s milk and cheese, and even offers soap, and also sell fresh eggs from the farm. Tiffany said that Pappardelle’s Pasta sells at the market and they offer 30 different flavors of authentic pasta. Other vendors include Magnolia Organics, Kilpatrick Produce, Tropical Gardens, The Honey Cart, Greenleaf Wisconsin Cheese, and Floral Fantasy.

The market offers lunch and snacks from vendors such as Joe’s Oat Patties, Organic Coffee Company, Popaliscious Kettle Corn, La Patite France, Brat’s Sensation, Proper Pie, and Culinary Delights. The market also hosts vendors such as Sweet Harvest Farms, who sells locally made soap. During the market live music is played from local bands and artists. “I want to reach out to as many farmers across Florida as possible,” she said, “produce, plants, herbs, eggs, milk, anybody who has farm products can come.”

Tiffany said, that the goal of the Tampa Downtown Partnership is to increase economic development in the downtown area, and that the market does this by offering a place for small businesses to sell their goods. “We’re working with small businesses in the private sector,” Tiffany said. “It’s a win-win situation for everyone.” Above all else, Tiffany enjoys starting and managing fresh markets in the Tampa area. “I get to see the smiles on everyone’s faces,” she said. “I love seeing customers walk through the market. It makes me feel like I’m doing something for the community, and bringing business to vendors, who don’t have store fronts, an opportunity to sell at a different place and time.”

‘Tis the Season for Fresh Market’s in Tampa Bay! For Agricultural related businesses interested in selling their products at some of the Local Fresh Market’s in Tampa Bay, here is a list of Markets currently booking vendors to sell the following agricultural related products from re-sale vendors, farmers, backyard growers and community gardens:

Conventional Produce/Plants/Herbs Organic Produce/Plants/Herbs Hydroponic Produce/Plants/Herbs Fresh Eggs • Fresh Dairy • Fresh Cheese

The following local Fresh Market’s have space available:

Tampa Downtown Market, Every Friday Downtown: www.tampadowntownmarket.com Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market Every Second Sunday of Ea. Month in Seminole Heights:www.sundaymorningmarket.com A New Market: Fresh Market at the Shops at Wiregrass Every First Saturday of Ea. Month in Wesley Chapel:www.theshopsatwiregrass.com *This Market opens in November, 2010.

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Cowboy’s Western World celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, Sept 2, 2010. Cowboy’s Western World is comprised of a restaurant, Cowboy’s Steakhouse & Saloon, a western wear retail store and an areana.

Several members of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce were in attendance.

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By Jim Frankowiak

RETURNS TO FLORIDA; SEEKS COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE CABINET POST Offers Appealing Plans for the Department and State

A

dam Putnam is coming home to Florida. After serving the 12th Congressional District for the last decade, the Republican Congressman is leaving the arena of national and international issues for his home state and aspirations to become Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The reasons are multifold: his tenure in Congress has meant time away from his wife Melissa and their four children, he anticipates the opportunity for having a greater impact on public policy if elected commissioner, and “Washington has become just too dysfunctional.”

Another reason is because he wants to dispel the notion that “too many people think the only way out of Washington is horizontally or in handcuffs,” the Bartow native has said on several occasions.

Putnam and his Democratic opponent, former Tallahassee mayor and state Democratic Party chairman Scott Maddox, were unopposed in the primary election and will meet in the November 2 general election. Despite the fact that this race has not drawn the attention of other high level state offices, it is the first time in a century that all four cabinet posts are open. “Florida is at a crossroad,” said Putnam.

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“If we get it right in this election and elect a cabinet committed to enhancing the state’s dynamics and competitiveness, our future will be bright and strong. If not, we will turn into another California.”

Elected to Congress in 2001 at the age of 26, Putnam became one of the youngest members of congress in history. Florida’s 12th District is composed of most of Polk County and parts of Hillsborough and Osceola Counties. The district, which is located along the I-4 Corridor, reflects the economic and cultural diversity of Florida where change is taking place at a rapid pace near the major metro areas of Tampa and Orlando, as well as among the cattle ranches, citrus groves and small towns reminiscent of Old Florida.

While in Congress, Putnam has served in the Republican Party’s leadership and is a member of the Committee on Financial Services, which oversees all components of the nation’s housing and financial services sector. He is a fifth generation Floridian and brought to Capitol Hill the common sense values he learned growing up in a farming family. He has led improvements to a wide array of laws affecting Floridians, ranging from agriculture and children to small

business and social security. While in Congress, Putnam has served as a member of the committees on Agriculture, Budget, Government Reform and the powerful committee on Rules. In 2003, he was selected to the subcommittee on Technology, Information Policy, Intergovernmental Relations and Census, making him the youngest subcommittee chairman since World War II. In that post, Putnam worked to reduce the risk of cyber terrorism and was responsible for legislation that strengthened federal computer security.

For the 2007-2008 Congressional session, Putnam was selected by his peers to chair the Republican Conference, his party’s third highest leadership post. He had previously served as Chairman of the Republican Policy Committee, another leadership post. Putnam did not seek reelection to the Conference Chairmanship for the most recent Congressional session, saying he wanted to focus more closely on issues important to Florida and to have the latitude to forge bipartisan consensus on policy matters where possible, describing one of his goals as helping to “turn the lights back on in the idea factory by providing constructive ideas to move the nation forward and not simply saying no.”

The odds favoring the opportunity to impact public policy in Florida are greater in Tallahassee than in Washington,” said Putnam.

“As a Congressman, I was one of 435, but if elected Commissioner, I would be one of four cabinet members charged with formulating public policy. I like those odds.”

However, Putnam did not let the unfavorable odds in Washington get in his way while a Member of Congress. Shortly after being elected to Congress the first time, he was thrust into the negotiations for a new foreign trade agreement and fought hard to lift the profile and recognition of Florida agriculture. “It was great to see the WALL STREET JOURNAL use steel, textile and Florida agriculture in the same sentence,” said Putnam. But more than that, his efforts on behalf of Florida agriculture were important in other ways beyond the trade agreement. “When natural disasters struck our state, and diseases threatened our citrus industry and the new

Farm Bill was being hammered out, I believe we were instrumental in having the administration and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle recognize the need to promptly address how their actions would impact agriculture in our state.”

“That work has permanently expanded the recognition not only of the importance of Florida agriculture, but the specialty crops of our state,” he said. “The direction of federal farm policy is no longer exclusively grain-centric. It now recognizes Florida specialty crops.”

If successful in his quest for the post of Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Putnam would focus on three areas: renewable energy, water policy and child nutrition. Overall, he would work to bring a cultural shift within the state with respect to awareness of the importance of agriculture.

“I want the person who becomes commissioner after I leave office not to have to begin any presentations by having his or her audience learn about the importance and value of agriculture to Florida and its residents,” he said. “I want that to be a given and plan to work hard to make that happen.”

With respect to renewable energy, Putnam is “anxious to move this overall area from bench scale in the laboratory to production scale in the field. Current and new crops offer potential as energy resources, but we have to rekindle that entrepreneurial spirit and forge ahead if we are to take full advantage.”

The first elected official to participate in the York Distinguished Lecture Program at the University of Florida, Putnam, in his April address entitled “Green-Lighting the 21st Century Land Grant Mission,” detailed a number of energy-related opportunities in the Sunshine State thanks to the resources available at UF and its mission as a Land Grant institution. Although Putnam’s speech was not political, it presented more than one man’s theoretical vision for the future. It also maps out the practical goals Putnam believes can be achieved, and the kind of thinking Floridians could expect from him at the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

“Florida must take a comprehensive approach to finding

Continued on page 83

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EXOTIC FRUIT FLIES FOUND IN PINELLAS COUNTY Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson said two male Oriental fruit flies have been found in a trap in a grapefruit tree in the Pinellas County community of Safety Harbor. The flies (Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Tephritidae) were found during routine surveillance activities earlier this month conducted by the department’s Division of Plant Industry.

“This is a disturbing find because of the extreme risks associated with exotic fruit fly infestations,” Bronson said.

“However, it is a clear indication that our fruit fly detection and monitoring program is working well and, fortunately, we have developed effective emergency response plans that in most cases allow us to quickly eradicate these dangerous pests. The state, along with our federal partner the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is pouring all available resources to address the fruit fly find in Pinellas County.”

The Oriental fruit fly is considered one of the most serious of the world’s fruit fly pests due to its potential economic harm.

It attacks more than 100 different fruits, vegetables and nuts, including citrus, apples, guava, mango, tomatoes and peppers.

As with other fruit flies, it is not safe to rule out many plants as potential hosts. The fruit flies lay their eggs in the fruits and vegetables. In a few weeks, the larvae or maggots hatch and render the fruits or vegetables inedible.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has launched an intensified trapping program in an 81-square-mile area surrounding the fruit fly find in Pinellas County until mid-December. If any more flies are found the trapping will continue and an insecticide will be applied to telephone poles along with a substance that attracts the flies. As of this date, no additional flies have been found.

Twenty-four hours prior to the application of any pesticides or other treatment activities, public notification and treatment area maps will be published in local newspapers. Additional public outreach activities will be conducted as more information becomes available.

Agricultural officials are attempting to determine the source of the fruit that carried these flies into Florida. Report any information on the possible origin of these flies to the USDA’s anti-smuggling hotline at 1-800-877-3835.

State and federal agencies will work with local governments to keep the public involved and to provide updated and accurate information. Visit the Department’s web site at www.doacs.state. fl.us/pi/enpp/ento/exoticfruitflies.html for maps of the infested areas and detailed information on the Oriental fruit fly, or call the toll-free help line at 1-888-397-1517.

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ee t C Ea rli har br lie it W in e te Fl r D or aw id n a Fl or Rad id ia a nc St El ra ya e w n Ro ber a r sa y Fe L Ca in st d iv rm a al in e

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Strawberry varieties developed by the University of Florida are patent protected under U.S. Code Title 35.

Anyone propagating plants for their own use or for sale is required to be licensed by Florida Strawberry Patent Service (FSPS). Additionally, packers, marketers, and sellers of fruit from the above varieties can be liable for selling fruit from illegally propagated plants. As of August 10, 2010, the above entities are the only entities licensed for legal propagation and sale of plants of the respective varieties.

Protect yourself from unknowingly purchasing illegal plants or fruit by asking entities if they are licensed to propagate and if fruit has come from legal plants.

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Illegal propagation is a direct threat to the strawberry industry and the patent rights held by FSPS. Royalties generated are critical to the support of the Florida Strawberry breeding program.

If you are interested in obtaining a license or would like to anonymously report illegal propagation, please contact: FSPS, P O Drawer 2550, Plant City , Fl 33564 Phone: (813) 752-6822

Continued from page 77 energy solutions that balance affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible energy. Florida also has the opportunity to lead the nation in biomass energy production as Florida is the nation’s number one biomass producer with strong agriculture and silviculture industries.”

In his York presentation he cited water as “The most consequential issue facing the future of all of Florida.” Putnam noted this challenge is multi-fold and includes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Numeric Nutrient Criteria, Everglades restoration, striking the balance between urban, agricultural and ecological needs. The water issue “will require ever improving efforts at conservation, continued technological advances in water storage, reuse, recovery and grey water infrastructure.”

“Challenges will be present both on the water quality and water quantity fronts. Agriculture must develop common bonds with municipal water users, demonstrate and communicate the tremendous advances in reducing volumes required and innovate in cold protection.”

He noted the strides that have been made in developing low volume irrigation and freeze protection methods at UF and its Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences that aid citrus and other cold sensitive crops through last year’s sever winter. “The aquifer impacts in Hillsborough and Polk Counties, however demonstrate the need for further work,” he said.

Putnam has been critical of EPA’s numeric criteria for water bodies in the state of Florida. “It was lawyers in a courtroom and not scientists in a lab who set the standard and timeline on what will be a costly endeavor that has not been backed up by science,” he recently told an Extension audience regarding the legally binding agreement entered into last year by the current administration in Washington and the EPA with environmental activists. In addition to the absence of a basis in science, the new regulations stand to cost Florida jobs with direct and indirect economic impacts potentially exceeding $2.5 billion.

Putnam noted EPA has agreed to submit parts of its proposed rule, which would apply to estuaries, coastal waters and flowing waters in South Florida to their internal Science Advisory Board. “I urge EPA to conduct a full scientific review of this proposed rule for all Florida waters and to modify its rulemaking in accordance with the Science Advisory Board’s analysis so that Floridians can continue to enjoy clean water, protected by a standard that is achievable and supported by the best available science,” said Putnam.

Putnam also noted a number of trade related impacts in his York remarks. “Global diets are changing, American’s among them,” he said. “While locally grown is the order of the day, the reality is that we demand ever more exotic influences on our plate from Asian spices to Latin or Caribbean product. We currently inspect less than one percent of all food imports and do not currently hold imported foods to the same standards as domestic produce. This must change and we are working hard to change that. New technologies must come from our research institutions and the industries that will from the basic research to allow faster, more accurate testing of perishable commodities in our ports.”

“As that trade expands and global tourist travel rebounds, the risk of imported plant and animal and human pests and diseases will grow accordingly. Priority funding must follow these public and agricultural health threats. We have spent billions dealing with the consequences of invasive pests and diseases, it is time to get ahead of the curve…a million dollars in prevention is worth a billion dollars of cure.”

The congressman also detailed his thoughts regarding labor in Florida. “Florida is disproportionately dependent on hand labor. Urgent, sustained attention must be given to development of mechanical harvesting technologies jointly funded by the public and private sectors,” he said. “We must continue to press for a smart immigration system in America that allows for better border security, a legal immigration program that makes us a magnet for global talent and a temporary worker program that allows agriculture to maintain a stable, legal workforce.”

Nutrition and healthy eating are added focus areas for Putnam.

“Americans have been losing their health eating habits. As a result, childhood obesity has tripled in this nation during the past 20 years and it has become a serious public health matter. The USDA spends more than $10 billion a year on programs that provide food to our school children, but foods standards must be revised to reflect modern health benefits of fruit and vegetables,” he said. Among his suggestions in this area is to “shift the responsibility of providing wholesome, locally grown items to our schoolchildren from the Department of Education for whom it is not a top priority to the Department of Agriculture, for whom it is.”

Shifting away from agriculture, Putnam has several broader goals he would like to see Florida achieve, things he would champion if he became a cabinet member. “Given the reality of very tight budgets and the fact those budgets will be tight for the foreseeable future, we must take a look at government regulation and enforcement, streamlining and cross-training for better utilization of limited resources. If this requires amended or new statues, so be it.”

Putnam would also like to see greater use of public lands by Floridians. “In addition to introducing young Floridians to the reality of life and the importance of our state’s natural resources, I would like to see introduction of a wounded warrior program that accommodates the needs of veterans, especially the handicapped. This could be a public private partnership that benefits these men and women who have sacrificed so much for all of us.”

He noted the term “staycation” has become popular during these tough economic times as a description for family vacations that are much closer to home and less costly. “Florida has some of the most diverse and wonderful locations for staycations, but we must do a better job of telling our residents about them and that means a better and more comprehensive marketing program that is coordinated through all of the state entities that oversee and regulate these public lands from Forestry and Fish and Wildlife to the various water management districts. Let’s make it easy for Floridians to find out about these great locations.”

Although it has been the policy of IN THE FIELD Magazine not to endorse candidates, we do like what Adam Putnam has to say and we encourage our readers to learn more about this candidate and his plans for the office he seeks and our state.

For more information about Putnam’s focus for the future of not only the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, but the future of Florida, as well visit www.adamputnam.com. Take note of the individuals and groups that have already endorsed Adam Putnam.

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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Florida A Nutrition Star Story by Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicine, B.S. Nutrition Science The carambola, or star fruit, is a uniquely flavored, juicy fruit grown commercially in Florida. A combination of sweet and tart, carambola’s flavor has been described as a mix of apple, papaya, and grapefruit flavors. This juicy fruit is entirely edible, including the skin. When cut crosswise, the slices have a star shape, which gives the fruit its common name of “star fruit.”

In Florida, there are two to three peak seasons for star fruit --- between late summer to early winter and again between December through February. According to the University of Florida Extension Office, Florida’s production represents over 90 percent of all carambola grown in the U.S. A small amount is also grown in Hawaii.

NUTRITIONAL PROFILE

Carambolas are high in water content and are low in calories and carbohydrates, meaning that they help hydrate and fill you up with no damage to the waistline. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, a medium sized raw carambola (91g) is over 90 percent water by weight. It contains 28 calories, 0.3 g fat, 0.95 g protein, 6.12 g carbohydrate, 2.5 g fiber, 121mg potassium, 31mg vitamin C, and 56 IU of vitamin A and many other nutrients.

The entire fruit is edible, including the skin. The skin contains a substance called tannins, which may help alleviate diarrhea and regulate intestinal processes, as well as most of the fiber in the fruit. Other nutrients found in star fruit are vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Vitamin C: For a strong immune system Star fruit is considered a good source of vitamin C, an important antioxidant that helps protect your body’s cells from damage by free radicals. Vitamin C also helps the body fight colds and infections, as well as enhance iron absorption from other foods. It aids in the development and maintenance of healthy capillaries, gums, and skin, as well as strong bones and teeth.

Potassium: For blood pressure control Star fruit are high in potassium, a mineral which promotes healthy heart functioning and protects against high blood pressure. Potassium helps regulate fluids and mineral balance, aids in muscle contraction, and helps transmit nerve impulses.

Star fruit and other fruits high in potassium can help prevent muscle cramps.

Vitamin A: For good eyesight Star fruit is high in vitamin A, which is another important antioxidant in the body. Vitamin A is essential for optimal eye health and can help prevent night-blindness. This vitamin plays a role in immunity by supporting the white blood cells in fighting infections and is also involved in hearing, taste, and normal fetal

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development.

How to Select and Store

Carambola is at its peak season and best flavor right now.

Look for shiny yellow fruit that are free of bruises. If the fruit has green ridges, it will ripen into a yellow color. Ripe carambola should be enjoyed as soon as possible. It can be also be stored in the refrigerator for later use. According to the Fruit & Spice Park in Homestead, FL, peeling off the ridges takes away some of the tart flavor and makes the fruit taste sweeter.

How to Enjoy

Carambolas can be enjoyed in any stage of ripeness. Unripe fruit can be prepared as a vegetable in stir-fry dishes. Ripe carambolas are sweeter and wonderful eaten out of hand. They can also be sliced and added to salads, or puréed and made into sorbets or puddings. Cooked fruit can be used in stews, curries, and cakes. When sliced, their unique star shape is a beautiful garnish to desserts, entrées, or cocktails. Carambolas can also be enjoyed as a refreshing juice or made into jelly when mixed with pectin.

Savor beautiful juicy Florida carambola at its peak taste today. It’s delicious eaten out of hand and is also a lovely garnish to any dish.

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87

R E C I P E S Carambola Upside Down Cake Ingredients

3 to 4 Florida carambolas (star fruit), sliced 1/4 cup butter, melted 2/3 cup dark brown sugar Juice of 2 passion fruit 1/2 cup butter,

softened 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 1/2 cups cake flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder pinch of salt 1/2 cup milk 1 tsp. each of vanilla and almond extract

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Arrange sliced carambolas in bottom of a greased 9 inch cake pan as close together as possible.

Mix together 1/4 cup butter, brown sugar and passion fruit juice and pour into pan, turning so mixture covers bottom.

Set aside.

Cream together 1/2 cup of butter and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beat well.

Mix together dry ingredients. Add flour mixture, alternately with milk, to butter mixture. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts. Pour into prepared cake pan.

Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until cake pulls away form sides of pan.

Let cool for five minutes before inverting onto serving plate.

Yield: 8 servings

Lobster Carambola Citrus Salad Ingredients

1 cup Florida orange juice 2 tablespoons Florida honey 1/4 cup canola oil 1 teaspoon salt 4 medium Florida carambolas (star fruit), sliced 1 cup Florida orange sections 1 cup Florida pink grapefruit sections 1 pound Florida cooked lobster tail meat, sliced 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained Salad greens, chilled

Preparation

For dressing, bring orange juice to a boil in a saucepan, reducing liquid by 1/2. Cool in a small bowl. Whisk in the orange juice, honey, oil and salt. Set aside. On individual plates, arrange carambola slices, orange and grapefruit sections, lobster and black beans on salad greens. Drizzle with orange salad dressing and serve. Yield: 4 servings Recipes courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture 88

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SEPTEMBER 2010

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Massey Ferguson 1533 4WD Tractor/Loader 33 hp diesel • Shuttle Transmission • 4X4 5 ft. Mower • 5 ft. Box Blade • Canopy

NEW Massey Ferguson 573-4 4x4 • Shuttleshift • 72hp 1,000 pd. spreader • 6’ mower • 6’ Box Blade

908 E. Baker Street • Plant City, FL 1-800-717-8333 Toll Free Tel: 813-759-8722 • Fax: 813-752-9627

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

GROVE

EQUIPMENT SERVICE INC.

SEPTEMBER 2010

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ARIENS AND GRAVELY SALE SPECIALS Ariens Zoom 42” cut with 16.5 hp motor List Price: $2,67500 Sale Price: $1,95275 Save: $72425

Gravely ZT XL 42” cut with 22 hp motor List Price: $4,29995 Sale Price: $3,25827 Save: $1,04168 Gravely ZT 54” cut with 24 hp motor List Price: $4,59995 Sale Price: $3,47727 Save: $1,12268

Gravely ZT 50” cut with 22 hp motor List Price: $3,39995 Sale Price: $2,55747 Save: $84248

Gravely ZT XL 48” cut with 24 hp motor List Price: $4,49995 Sale Price: $3,40427 Save: $1,09568

Arien’s Push Trimmer List Price: $50400 Sale Price: $35000 Save: $15400

3206 Sydney Rd. • Plant City, FL • 813-659-1718 • www.choochoolawnequipment.com 90

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

Perfectly Fresh. Perfectly Priced.

VEGETABLE SALE

Fri. & Sat. Sept. 17th & 18th • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fri. & Sat. Oct. 15th & 16th • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Call and place your order today, or drop by on the sale days.

Southwestern Produce Company 1510 Sydney Rd. • Plant City, FL

(813) 754-1500 or (813)757-0096

Fresh from the Farm to your Freezer!

Fresh Georgia Pecans coming in November!

Baby Butter Beans ............... $13.

Cranberry Beans ................. $15 Green Beans ....................... $13.

Pole Beans .......................... $13.

Speckled Butter Beans ......... $13.

Blackeye Peas ..................... $13.

Butter Peas .......................... $13.

Conk Peas ........................... $22 Crowder Peas...................... $13.

Green Peas ......................... $13.

Pinkeye Peas....................... $13.

Sugar Snap Peas ................. $15 White Acre Peas .................. $13.

Zipper Peas ......................... $13.

White Corn .......................... $12 Yellow Corn ........................ $12 Cream White Corn 4# ...........$ 6 Cream Yellow Corn 4# .........$ 6 Collard Greens.................... $12 Mustard Greens .................. $12 Turnip Greens ..................... $12

Spinach ............................... $12 Cut Okra ............................. $12 Breaded Okra ..................... $12 Whole Okra......................... $12 Sliced Yellow Squash .......... $12 Sliced Zucchini .................... $12 Brussel Sprouts ................... $12 Baby Carrots ....................... $12 Chopped Broccoli 5# ............$ 5 Broccoli ............................... $13.

Cauliflower ......................... $13.

Mixed Vegetables ............... $12 Soup Blend.......................... $12 Blueberries 5# .................... $15 Blackberries 5#................... $15 Raspberries 5# ................... $15 Cranberries 5# ................... $15 Mango Chunks 5# .............. $15 Pineapple Chunks 5# ......... $15 Dark Sweet Cherries 5#...... $14 Rhubarb 5# ........................ $10 Peaches ............................... $15 * All items 8lbs unless Noted

WALK-INS WELCOME

INTHEFlist IELDfor MAGAZINE EPTEMBER 2010 Give us a call to be placed on our mailing monthly Snotification.

91

y 0 a d r atu , 201

S

2 R BE

Door P rizes TO C O Drawing Q B through s B out FREE h the day nc u L m !

11:30a g

Startin

• Exclusive Dog Food (Any Size Bag) - Buy 1, GET ONE FREE (First 25, 1 per household) • 50 lb. All Stock $599 • All Blended Livestock Feed $200 OFF per 50 lb. Bag • 3” Fence Posts $329 • 1x6x16 Boards $679 • 80 lb. Water Softner (Coarse Salt) $499 • 5 FREE CHICKS to First 40 Customers with Purchase of a 10 lb. Chick Starter (1 per household) • 1 FREE BUNNY with Purchase of Cage (1 per customer) • Country Acres Dog Food 40 lb. Bag $999

• Pine Shavings $399 a bale • Horse Halters $500 off • ALL Reg. Priced Boots 25% OFF • Montana Silversmiths 25% OFF • Wildfire Belts 50% OFF • Breyer Horses 25% OFF • Selected Felt Hats 50% OFF • Selected Apparel 75% OFF • Wrangler’s for Men (13MWZ and 936) $1999 • Whole Corn 50# $5.99 • Cracked Corn 50# $6.49

Layaway Available!

Western Fashion

SOUTHSIDE Farm & Pet Supply

(813) 752-2379 92

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

3014 S. Jim Redman Parkway (Hwy. 39 South)

SEPTEMBER 2010

Pennington Food Plot Blend

C’Meer Deer Product s

PINK 50

FEED TODAY FOR A DIFFERENCE TOMORROW

FEED TODAY FOR A DIFFERENCE TOMORROW

d n a s d n a t s e e Tr ds n a t S Box

For every Pink 50 bag of Purina® animal feed you buy, Purina Mills will donate a portion of the proceeds to breast cancer research. It’s a great way for all of us and your animals to help make people better.

YOUR ANIMALS WANT YOU TO GET REGULAR MEDICAL CHECKUPS

“Thank you customers for yourDEALER donations IMPRINT and support of Cork Elementary School.”

PurinaMills.com

©2010 Purina Mills, LLC

Mrs. Lori Der, Third Grade Teacher (left) and Mr. Tim Godshall, Guidance Counselor (right), from Cork Elementary School.

Western Fashion

SOUTHSIDE Farm & Pet Supply

(813) 752-2379

INTHE FIELD MAGAZINE 3014 S. Jim Redman Parkway (Hwy. 39 South)

SEPTEMBER 2010

93

C L A S S I F I E D S RUBBER MULCH All colors, buy 10 bags, get one FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted 813-752-3378 DECKING BRDS. & T1LL SIDING Call Ted 813-752-3378 MASSEY FERGUSON 255 Grove Tractor with 6’ mower $7,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 KUBOTA L275 With shuttle shift • Ready to work! $3,500.

Call 813-759-8722 CALL THE “LANDLADY” Acreage, lakefront, ranches, “mini” farms.

Mary L. Adsit, Realtor 863-285-7118. www.maryadsit.com CORIAN COUNTER TOP $15.00 Square Foot • Call Ted 813-752-3378 DBL INSULATED Thermo Pane. Starting at $55.00 Call Ted 813752-3378 Beautiful Brooksville Horse Ranch, 51 Acres, Large 7 Stall center Aisle Barn, 5 Bay RV Garage, 4 Car Garage, Nice 3 Bedroom 2 Bath house, Private Lake, Private Pool and Much More! $699,000 http://alturl. com/i9rka (Old Video) Realty Associates (352) 346-5295 MOUNTAIN COUNTRY KETTLE KORN (Blairsville, GA) Email: candaceharris@tds. net -We Ship!

CALVES FOR SALE Simmental outstanding pedigree, gentle.

813-967-4552 or 813-754-5370 HUSQVARNA LZ 6127 Zero turn mower. 61” cut, 27 hp Kohler engine, 5 yr. warranty $7,499 (MSRP $9,699) C&J Equip., Lake Wales, 863-638-0671 SURPLUS WINDOWS DOUBLE INSULATED Starting at $55.00 • Call Ted 813-752-3378 MOBILE HOME SIZES WINDOW SCREENS We make window screens all sizes available in different frame colors.

Call Ted 813-752-3378 T1LL 4X8 sheet B-grade $14.95. Call Ted 813-752-3378 1984 KUBOTA B6200 2 wd, w/4 ft. Finish Mower. $3,000 • 863-698-2967 NEW HOLLAND LS185B Skid loader. Includes bucket, forks, tree boom.

New tires.

1600 hrs. &16,000 U10805 813-623-3673 KUBOTA KX 41 Mini Excavator low hours. Quick attach bucket. Call Scott 813-764-0603

94

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

BEAGLE PUPPIES - AKC Bred from show champions, small tri-colored.

Females $500 - Males $450.

Taking deposits now. 813-752-8172 Brand New Mahindra 4025 Tractor, 41hp, power steering. $9,495 4.99% interest @ 72 months, 5 year warranty. Call Alvie 813-759-8722 STUMP GRINDER Shaver S-25 PTO mount. Less than 3 years old. Perfect condition, hardly used. Cost new $5,778. For sale for $2,500.

Lake Wales 863-528-3213 John Deere Tractor 2355 2WD, 55 pto hp, 2100 hrs, canopy, clean $9600.00 (U13434) Call Fred 813-23-3673 1992 GMC Topkick Truck 24’ box clean, good running condition.

170k miles asking $8,500 OBO 941-809-3426 New Holland TN55 Tractor/loader, 2WD, 45 hp, $13,000.00 (UUT7084) Call Fred 813-623-3673 Ford 2000 Gas Tractor Restored, 2WD, 33 hp, PS, 3600 hrs, $4,950.00 (U13360) Call Fred 813-623-3673 Used Post Hole Digger W/6” & 9” augers $500.00 (U13347) Call Fred 813-623-3673 Ford 3010S Tractor 2WD, handyman special $3000.00 (UT5634) Call Fred 813-623-3673 Ford 2000 GasTractor 2WD, 33 hp, $2500.00 (U13378) Call Fred 813-623-3673 MISCELLANEOUS Used farm implements.

Call Fred 813-623-3573 6 FOOT DISK / DRAG TYPE New Blades and U-Bolts. $400.00 863-293-7283 SHEEP FOR SALE Katahdin Wews (due in November) Registered Dorper Rams & Cross Bred Yearlings ewes available. Clean flock with scrapie tags and outstanding bloodlines. Farm located in Lake Wales.

Call Debbie Lepley at 727-207-1109 2010 KAWASAKI MULE Trans 4010 $9,499 or $199.00 per mo.

Sky Powersports of Lake Wales 863-676-2245 Ford Industrial tractor/Loader modEL 515 2WD, 54 hp, runs good, $4500.00 (U13367) Call Fred 813-623-3673 Deutz Tractor mod.1070 2WD, 70hp, runs good, $3975.00 (U13389) Call Fred 813-623-3673

SEPTEMBER 2010

Rear Blade 84” $175.00 (U13350) Call Fred 813-623-3673 Blueberry plants Mature four year old blueberry plants for sale. $10 a piece. Call Mark @ 813-928-6953.

New Kubota RTV 500 Camo 4x4 with55 hours. List $9,899 sell price $7,900 financing 0 down 0% for 48 months. Only $135.00 per month. Call 813-409-0349 New Kubota RTV 900 Orange with 40 hrs. list $13,900 sell price $10,900. Financing 0 down 0% for 48 months.

Only $235.00 per month. Call 813-409-0349 2000 GMC Sonoma 4x4 4x4, auto, extended. $5,500 813-967-4552 or 813-754-5370 2010 KAWASAKI MULE 610 4x4. $6,499 or $125.00 per mo.

Sky Powersports of Lake Wales 863-676-2245 2010 KAWASAKI MULE 600 Red. $5,499 or $125.00 per mo.

Sky Powersports of Lake Wales 863-676-2245 2010 KAWASAKI MULE 750 4x4. $8,499 or 150.00 per mo.

Sky Powersports of Lake Wales 863-676-2245 2010 KAWASAKI BRUTE FORCE 750 ATV. $5,999 or $125 per mo.

Sky Powersports of Lake Wales 863-676-2245 125 Gallon Tank (Water or Herbicide) with valves. $125.00 OBO. Call Barry 813-629-2796 or email Bukemill @aol.com. Pictures available.

1.2 ACRE WOODED LOT Zoned Agriculture. All permits acquired.

Owner financing available. 68k call Barry 813-629-2796 or email bukemill@aol.com ATTENTION animal workers Healthy individuals 18 yrs. of age or older are asked to participate in a research study to evaluate influenza (flu) infections in agricultural workers & other household members.

Volunteers must work with swine, turkeys, ducks or geese at least 1hr per wk. Compensation is available. For details, view our study website at http://gpl.phhp.ufl.edu/agworker or contact 866-410-6190 Mahindra 2415 Tractor 4x4, shuttle shift. 24hp, 263 hours. $6,950. Call Alvie 813-759-8722 Kubota L2600 2wd, 2334 hours, 27hp. $2,750. Call Alvie 813-759-8722 Kubota 1750 4x4 Hydro Stat Trans. 20hp. $3,750. Call Alvie 813-759-8722 22 ACRES FOR SALE BY OWNER Trapnell area, can be divided, beautiful home sites with large oaks, some wetlands, good for pasture. Owner financing considered.

813-661-1803 CALL TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS: 813-759-6909 info@inthefieldmagazine.com

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SEPTEMBER 2010

95

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THEFIELD Griffin MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 914 EINKnights Rd., Plant City,2010 FL 33565 • 813.951.0118 cell • 813.752.0224 office 813.719.1913 fax • teethfloat@aol.com • www.horse-dentist.biz