Heartland In The Field - July 2011

July 2011

Future Faces of Florida Ag

Covering What’s Growing

HARDEE • HIGHLANDS • DESOTO • GLADES CHARLOTTE • OKEECHOBEE • HENDRY July 2011 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 1

Huge Wall-to-Wall Sale

COWBOYS WESTERN WORLD

Huge

Sale

Every Single Item on Sale!

• Boots • Jeans • Apparel

• Kids Apparel • Home Decor • & More

wo rd Tex t t h e 7 2239 o t ” s n a e “j wi n a o t r e t n e to ea ns! j f o r i a p f re e

Win a Fantastic Prize!

Ask for Details Bring in this coupon for bonus prize dollars!

Name Address

Email

HOURS: -SAT 10-7 • SUN 11-5

gi r ls • MON and C o w

Where The Cowboys Shop.

120 S.R. 60 E. • Plant City, FL 33567 • 813-737-3259 2

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

J 2011 I T F www.cowboyswesternworld.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

uly

N HE IELD MAGAZINE 3

From the Managing Editor

Sarah Holt

July

VOL. 3 • ISSUE 10

Cover Story

Our cover story this month focuses on the FFA and the 83rd Florida FFA State Convention and Leadership Conference, held June 13 – 17 in Orlando. The new slate of officers was selected to lead Florida FFA through the next year. History was made. Read the story for all the details!

FFA is an amazing organization that prepares students for the future and spans generations. The activities and skills learned in FFA mold the students for leadership positions, instill moral values and teach responsibility.

Rhonda Glisson Karen Berry

JJJJJJJJ JJJJJJ JJJJJJJ HHHHHH H HHHHHHHHH H HHHHHH H HHHHHH HHHHHHHHH H HHHHHHHHHH H HHHHHH

wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww

wwww wwww

wwwwwwwwww wwwwwwww

w

Florida FFA Pg. 32 6 Farm Bureau Letter 8 Advertisers Index 10 Willard Durrance

As always a special Thank You to our advertisers.

We appreciate each and every one of you! You allow us to continue to cover what is growing in the Heartland.

16 Young Rancher Brandon Storey

Until Next Month, The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you.

24 Jay Houston’s Hunting Update 28 Rocking Chair Chatter 36 Woman in Agriculture Jaunett Watford Lee 40 Florida Farming Ron Lambert 44-51 Food Section 56-59 Events Calendar & Coverage

In The Field® Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and other local venues within Hardee, Highlands, Charlotte, DeSoto, Okeechobee, Glades and Hendry counties. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes members of the Farm Bureau and those with ag classification on their land. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to Heartland in the Field, P.O. Box 3183, Plant City, Florida 33563 or you are welcome to email them to rhonda@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-708-3661.

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.

4

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

Senior Managing Editor Sarah Holt

14 Mark King’s Fishing Report

Senior Managing Editor

Phosphate Operations “Helping Farmers Feed a Hungry World”

Publisher

FFFFFF FFFFF FF FFFFFFF FF

Congratulations to the new state officers and all the participants in the state convention. You are to be commended for your hard work and dedication. The future of agriculture in Florida looks to be in good hands!

Sarah Holt

®

Tel: 813-708-3661 Office: 813-759-6909 Heartland: 813-750-1683 Fax: 813-754-4690

JJJJ JJJJ

Happy Birthday America! Each year on July 4, we celebrate the birth of the United States of America and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. This day we celebrate with parades, picnics, fireworks, reunions, and much, much more. This diverse nation is made up of those who flocked to this country, the land of the free and the home of the brave. The American Dream is lived by many, and many others enter our borders daily to be a part of it.

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

Hurricane Preparedness

Assistant Editor

Morgan Taylor Norris

Operations Manager

It’s hurricane season!

Preparedness efforts should be in place to make sure you are not caught off guard. The next Charlie, Frances, Ivan, or Jeanne could be headed your way. CF Industries is vigilant during hurricane season and keeps a very close watch on weather reports and predictions.

Lizzette Sarria

Office Manager

Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare … it is better to be safe than sorry! CF Industries wants ALL our employees, friends, and neighbors to be safe during this hurricane season.

Sales Manager

DEVELOP A FAMILY PLAN – Your family’s plan should be based on your vulnerability to the hurricane hazards.

You should keep a written plan about what you and your family would do in case a hurricane hit your area and share your plan with other friends or family.

Bob Hughens

Danny Crampton

Sales

CREATE A DISASTER SUPPLY KIT – Gather necessary items for riding out a hurricane – water, food, first aid kit, important document, daily medications, toiletries, etc. If you have to evacuate your home, take your emergency kit with you.

Karen Berry Morgan Taylor Norris Chass Bronson Ron Brown Tina Richmond

Creative Director Amey Celoria

SECURE YOUR HOME – Take the necessary steps to make your home secure and able to withstand strong winds, torrential rain, and hail.

MAKE PLANS FOR PETS – Identify which pet friendly shelter you would go to if necessary. Bring animals in and make sure you have plenty of food them for at least a few days.

Staff Writers

Al Berry James Frankowiak Robbi Sumner Tanner Huysman Justin Smith

Contributing Writers Ron Lambert Brenda Valentine Jay Houston Lindsey Wiggins

Photography Jim Davis Karen Berry

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

CF Industries has a legacy of community involvement, and is a proud partner with the American Red Cross. Calli Skipper (second from left), CF Industries Community Affairs Specialist, served on the planning committee for the 2011 Boot Camp Ball benefitting the Red Cross. www.InTheFieldMagazine.com 2011 INTHEwww.cfindustries.com FIELD MAGAZINE 5 6209 N. County Road 663  Bowling Green, FLJuly 33834  863-375-4321

DESOTO COUNTY FARM BUREAU

CHARLOTTE/DESOTO

1278 SE US HWY 31, ARCADIA, FL 34266 863.494.3636

Greetings from the DeSoto/ Charlotte Farm Bureau!

Summer is here and hopefully we have now gotten into the rainy season. Driving around DeSoto County, I can see a lot of pastures that have been burning up from the drought we have been in this spring and it will be good to get our normal summer rains.

This past week, John Hoblick, President of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation attended the DeSoto/Charlotte June Directors Meeting. John reported on the state of the Federation and the results of the recent legislative session as it affected agriculture in Florida.

We had a good turnout of our Board of Directors and they had a good deal of questions for Mr. Hoblick. On that same day he also met with the Highlands and Sarasota Farm Bureaus. It is great to have a President of the Federation who is willing to take the time to visit local farm bureau affiliates. This is what helps make us the strong grassroots organization that we are and will continue to be for our members.

Florida is an interesting agricultural state. Our citrus crop is just about completely harvested, the watermelons are all done, peaches and blueberries are harvested and cattlemen have begun weaning and shipping their calves. For much of the rest of the country though, corn is still being planted as well as many other crops. We truly are unique as an agricultural producing county and state. For that reason, the research done by UF/IFAS is critically important. Our production requirements and practices are, in many cases, very unique to only Florida. We also produce more than 282 commodities, many of which are not produced in other states. There is a move afoot to close the USDA Brooksville Tropical Research Center. They are currently doing Brahman research work that is critical to Florida Cattlemen and will not be done in other areas of the country. I would encourage you to contact Senator Nelson and Senator Rubio and encourage them to not allow Brooksville STARS to be closed. Currently the U. S. House

Appropriations bill has wording in it that will keep the Center open and doing research.

I would also like to ask that each of you remember our soldiers who serve our country so faithfully and especially those serving overseas in harm’s way.

Please hold them up in your prayers and your thoughts. I would also encourage you to do the same for the families of the two Florida Forestry Firefighters who were killed in the north Florida fire in Hamilton County.

Forest Ranger John Burch and Forest Ranger Brett Fulton were the two individuals who lost their lives. It is worth noting their names so that you can hold their families up in your prayers. We thank them for their ultimate sacrifice for our state in this tragic accident.

On a very sad note, Mr. Pat Cockrell passed away this past week. Pat was a long time employee of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation. He was more than just an employee though, in many ways he was the driving force of the federation. Last February he was inducted into the Ag Hall of Fame at the Florida State Fair. For me, he was a long time friend and colleague. Pat and I were Vocational Agricultural Teachers at Bartow Junior/Senior High School in the early and mid 70’s. Pat was a great teacher who made a huge impact on the lives of many young people and I know dramatically changed the path that many of those kids took in life. I and the DeSoto/Charlotte Farm Bureau send our heartfelt condolences to Pat Cockrell’s family. I know that he will be greatly missed by so many. Pat was a great leader and a great man.

Finally, if you are not a Farm Bureau Member, we encourage you to join our grassroots organization. You can call the DeSoto/Charlotte Farm Bureau Office at 863-494-3636 to learn how to join.

Jim Selph, President

DeSoto/Charlotte Farm Bureau

DESOTO COUNTY BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jim Selph, President; Jeffrey Adams, Vice President; Bryan K. Beswick, Secretary/Treasurer; Jim Brewer, John Burtscher, Mike Carter, Steve Fussell, Richard E. Harvin, Matt Sullivan, John Pfeil, Ann H. Ryals, Mac Turner, Matt Harrison 6

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

COUNTY FARM BUREAU

HARDEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU

HIGHLANDS COUNTY FARM BUREAU

1278 SE US Highway 31 Arcadia, FL 34266

1017 US Highway 17 N Wauchula, FL 33873

6419 US Highway 27 S. Sebring, FL 33876

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: 863.494.3636

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

Charlotte Line: 941.624.3981 Fax: 863.494.4332

Phone: 863. 773.3117 Fax: 863.773.2369

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

Phone: 863. 385.5141 Fax: 863.385.5356 Web site: www.highlandsfarmbureau.com

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Sec./Treasurer ..... Bryan K. Beswick

President............... David B. Royal Vice President ..... Greg L. Shackelford Sec./Treasurer ..... Bo Rich

President..............................Marty Wohl Vice President ................ Scott Kirouac Secretary ......................... Drew Phypers Treasurer ............................. Doug Miller

DIRECTORS FOR 2010-2011

DIRECTORS FOR 2010-2011

DIRECTORS FOR 2010-2011

Susan Chapman County Secretary

County Secretary Janet Menges

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS

Agency Manager N. Jay Bryan

Agency Manager Chad D. McWaters

Agent George L. Wadsworth, Jr.

Agents Joseph W. Bullington

1017 US Hwy 17 N. Wauchula, FL 33873 (863) 773-3117

6419 US Highway 27 S. Sebring, FL 33876 (863) 385-5141

President............... Jim Selph Vice President ..... Jeffrey Adams

Jim Brewer • John Burtscher Mike Carter • Steve Fussell Lindsay Harrington Richard E. Harvin • Ann H. Ryals Mac Turner • Matt Harrison Ken Harrison County Secretary Katherine Renfro

FARM BUREAU INSURANCE SPECIAL AGENTS Agency Manager Cameron N. Jolly Agents Dawn A. Hines 1278 SE US Highway 31 Arcadia, FL 34266 (863) 494-3636 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Joseph B. Cherry • John Platt Corey Lambert • Daniel H. Smith Steve A. Johnson • Bill Hodge David B. Royal • Greg L. Shackelford Bo Rich

July 2011

Sam Bronson • Steve Farr Carey Howerton • Charles Lanfier Mike Milicevic • Lindsey Sebring Mike Waldron • Jim Wood Jeff Williams • Frank Youngman

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 7

Index of

Advertisers

All-Around Septic .............................. 60 Arcadia Rodeo ................................... 23 Arcadia Stockyard ............................. 25 ATP Agri-Services .............................. 49 Big T Tire .......................................... 28 Blinds ASAP ...................................... 43 Callaway Farms ................................... 2 Camper Corral .................................. 60 Cattlemens Livestock Market ............. 39 Central States Enterprises ................... 15 CF Industries ....................................... 5 Christy Montoyne Desoto Automall ... 60 Cowboys Western Wear ....................... 3 DeSoto Machine Shop ........................ 55 DeSoto/Charlotte Farm Bureau ............ 7 Dixie Pride Seasoning ......................... 60 Edgewood Landscape ......................... 60 Fields Equipment ............................... 17 Florida Fence Post .............................. 47 Florida Heartland Homes .................. 31 Fly-N-Hi Enterprises .......................... 49 Glade & Grove Supply ....................... 21 Glisson’s Animal Supply .................... 61

Goin’ Postal ....................................... 60 Griffin’s Carpet Mart ......................... 37 Hardee County Farm Bureau ............... 7 Hardee Ranch Rodeo ......................... 59 Heartland Gold ................................. 30 Heartland Periodontics ...................... 61 Helena Chemical ............................... 39 Hicks Oil ........................................... 47 Highlands Farm Bureau ....................... 7 Jim Webb - Merrill Lynch .................. 59 KeyPlex ............................................. 11 Laye’s Tire ......................................... 34 Miller’s Central Air ............................ 47 Mosaic .............................................. 45 National Cattlemen’s Association ...... 63 Nick Smith - Langford Ford ............... 61 Okeechobee Dodge .............................. 9 Okeechobee Ranch Rodeo ................. 57 Peace River Citrus .............................. 49 Platinum Bank ................................... 43 Precision Pump Services ..................... 27 Prestige Homes .................................. 43 Quail Creek Plantation ...................... 55

Publisher

Rhonda Glisson 813-708-3661 rhonda@inthefieldmagazine.com Karen Berry kdberry@inthefieldmagazine.com

Senior Managing Editor

Sarah Holt sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com

Rhizogen ........................................... 64 River Pasture/Metal Art ..................... 41 Roadrunner Vet ................................. 13 Robbins Nursery ................................ 35 Seacoast National Bank ..................... 17 Sherco Surveying Services ................... 59 Southern Trophy Hunters Big Buck Expo ...27 Spurlows Outdoor Outfitters ............. 61 Sunshine Family Denistry ................... 61 Superior Muffler ................................ 61 Taylor Oil Company ......................... 19 The Andersons .................................. 49 Tree T Pee ......................................... 45 Triangle Hardware ............................ 61 Trinkle, Redman, Swanson, Cotón, Davis & Smith, P.A. ........................... 37 Walpole Feed & Supply ..................... 19 Wauchula State Bank ......................... 25 Wicks Brown CPA ............................. 55 Wild Turkey Tavern .......................... 61 WinField Solutions ........................13, 21 Wish Farms ....................................... 29

Sales Team

Assistant Editor

Morgan Taylor Norris morgan@inthefieldmagazine.com

Sales Manager

Danny Crampton 813-759-6909 danny@inthefieldmagazine.com

www.I n T he F ieldMagazine. c om

Morgan Taylor Norris morgan@inthefieldmagazine.com Chass Bronson chass@inthefieldmagazine.com Ron Brown ron@inthefieldmagazine.com Tina Richmond tina@inthefieldmagazine.com

P.O. Box 3183, Plant City, FL 33563 Business Office: 813-750-1683 | Fax: 813-754-4690

Okeechobee • We Specialize in Heavy Duty Truck Repairs • We Rebuild, Replace, or Service Transmissions on All Makes and Models • We Service All Makes and All Models!

• Fleet Discounts Available • Open Saturday for your convenience

10% off repairs

with this ad!

(expires 12/31/ 11)

Under New Ownership!

RAM

YOU, TOO, CAN BE A WINNER No Food HEY READERS, hidden somewhere in the magazine is a 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: No Farmers

InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, FL 33563-0042 All Entries must be received by July 15, 2011.

Winner will be notified by phone.

You Too Can Be A Winner - Enter Now! 8

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

863-357-0500

www.okeechobeedcj.com

Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep | 4224 US Hwy 441 S. | Okeechobee, FL. 34974

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 9

No Farmers No Food

by Chass Bronson

B

Proven!

Willard Kelly Durrance

tinued to work with Darroh, orn as Willard Kelly January 21, 1936 -April 29. 2011 they purchased land on State Durrance on January 21, Road 66 in Zolfo Springs and built the market. In 1936 to Dow and Nell Durrance, Willard 1994, Darroh passed away, but he and Willard was the youngest of five children. He had one had agreed to change the company name brother named Milton Durrance, but if you upon his death. Willard partnered with have spent any time around Wauchula, Roland Skipper and together they bought you probably knew him better as Tiny. out the Darroh family to form D & S Willard was 7 ½ years younger than his Cattle. sisters – Jean Hancock, Noveta Beeson, I had the pleasure of visiting and Faye Shackleford, all of whom Mr. Roland Skipper at D & S Cattle were guilty of spoiling him from time one morning to talk about the past to time.

17 years of business with Willard.

The Durrance family heritage Semi-trucks were coming and going, is woven with the legacy left behind sounds of the cattle’s hooves on the

by Willard, but also with a rich loading ramps echoed and the smell history of past ancestors. Captain of cattle permeated the office walls; Billy Smith was Durrance’s greatthe business was functioning just great-grandfather. He was the first fine. But after spending just a few Caucasian man to travel east of the moments with Mr. Skipper, it was if Peace River. The land that Willard something was missing. Though he and his family still reside on to this seemed in good spirits and business day has been in their family for generawas operating as normal, a piece of Mr. tions, passed down from his mother, Skipper was gone – Willard.

Nell Smith Durrance. In fact, they still “To my knowledge, we never had one have the original land deed signed by Grocross word to each other. What one seen, the ver Cleveland. other seen, too,” Mr. Skipper stated.

Willard grew up in Wauchula, home of He reflected upon their years of doing busithe Wildcats. Involvement in organizations such ness together and said, “Willard was easy to get along as church and agriculture were very important to Wilwith and I guess I was too. The hardest thing I ever done, I lard. He illustrated this at a young age by serving as presiguess, was to accept he was in the shape he was in with Alzheimer’s.” dent of his class for three years while attending Hardee High School.

Skipper explained that Willard had a good mind and he was always He served as an FFA state officer in 1954 and also held the American very mentally sharp. As the disease progressed, Skipper said Willard Farmer Degree. Education was not the only area in which Willard “was smart enough to know something was wrong.” excelled; his skills and natural ability on the football team sure did I also had the privilege of spending an afternoon with Marcus make his home town of Wauchula proud. He was chosen to play for Shackleford, a dear friend of Willard’s and speaker at his funeral. He the All Conference Football Team and then selected to play on the All shared with me that Willard always said, “The secret to having good State Football Team. cattle is being able to raise good grass.” Marcus described Willard as After graduating from high school, he married Gloria Roberts “a hard worker who was an extremely generous person with sports Durrance in 1956. As she reflected back on her life with Willard, she and church. He was an extremely good horseman, was patient and said with a chuckle, “We got married young.” But it was with pure had soft hands. He was also intelligent, had a dry sense of humor and sincerity Gloria said proudly, “He was a good, honest man!” was an all-around nice person.”

One of her best memories of their life together is the traditional Willard is survived by his wife Gloria, son Kelly and his wife Thanksgiving Dinner extravaganza they host every year. Many descendents of the Smith family attend and the number of guests exceeds Elizabeth and their four daughters.

The past couple of weeks have been nothing but pure pleasure well over 100 people. Gloria explained how every year, without fail, for me, as a writer. I have been able to spend time with some of the Willard wore the same green shirt with a turkey on it. This went on sweetest, down-to-earth people that, before this assignment, I would for a few years, until one day one of the grandchildren questioned not have had the privilege to know. I must admit, when I was first why he had the same shirt on in all of the Thanksgiving pictures. She assigned the task of writing this article, I was overwhelmed. How grinned and said, “Why honey, that’s a tradition!” could an article even come close to filling the shoes of a person such Throughout high school Willard worked for Doyle Carlton, Jr. as Willard and the life he lived? It will not, but Mr. Durrance’s legacy working cows and assisting with the duties of his ranch. He became now serves as an example to those he has left behind. I can only hope the ranch foreman and worked for Carlton until 1964. He then quit one day my peers will have things as wonderful to say of my life as his job as a ranch foreman and started buying cattle for H.G. Darroh.

Willard’s friends have said about him.

In 1970, Willard owned 49% of the H.G. Darroh Company. He con-

10 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

A nutritional... But there is more to KeyPlex than meets the eye.

Proven Yield Increases - Based on studies by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Proven Insect Repellence - United States Department of Agriculture data indicated repelled insects.

Proven Disease Protection - IFAS and USDA data indicate KeyPlex elicits Systemic Acquired Resistance.

Phone: +1-407-682-6500 • www.KeyPlex.com Contact us for the research data that supports these claims. ©2011 • KeyPlex ® is a registered trademark.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 11

Our Grandfather, Willard Kelly Durrance

Some of the earliest memories I have of my grandfather are him running the show every “watermelon season.” Ever since I can remember I spent the month’s during the season with my entire family (who all pitched in, in one way or another) out at the watermelon barn. Granddaddy, as we knew him, loved having our entire family together during these long days which sometimes ran into nights. He always made sure all of us girls, even at a young age, had some sort of job. Our jobs ranged from us answering the phones to helping sell the watermelons, though he usually gave in and let us play after about an hour. I have fond memories of him up on the loading dock helping out in any way he could to make sure the day ran smoothly. Some years were sucessful and others not as much, though I know he enjoyed the hard work as well as family time. He loved farming watermelons like he loved his family.—Erica Durarnce My Granddaddy was a wonderful man. I remember all of the good times we had with him before his illness took him away from us years ago. Granddaddy always had a smile on his face whenever any of his four granddaughters, Erica, Shelby, Caroline, and I, were around.

You could count on him to be at any softball game, dance recital, football game where we were cheerleading, or school shopping trips. Speaking of school shopping, Granddaddy definitely knew how to spoil the four of us, which we obviously loved. I remember all of the hours we would spend in “Limited Too” with Gramma Gloria helping us pick out our outfits for the new school year each August. Granddaddy would sit on the same bench outside the store, most likely with ice cream from the food court, just patiently waiting for the shopping to be done. We literally could spend 3 hours in the store and he never became impatient. Granddaddy LOVED to people watch during these shopping trips, and when the four of us and Gramma Gloria finally finished the shopping, he would joke and say, “While y’all were in there, 5,000 people walked this way and 4,000 people walked that way.” He never lacked a sense of humor.

The generosity of my Granddaddy was certainly nice, but the gift I will forever be most thankful for from him is the way he raised my father, Kelly Durrance. My dad is the best man I have ever known and a lot of his perfection (in my eyes) is because of the ways Granddaddy taught him when he was growing up. I know from the bottom of my heart that Granddaddy was a man of integrity and good character because I can see it reflected in his son and my father each and every day. Although we miss Granddaddy and have been missing him for a while now, I think about him frequently and love to share his stories with anyone willing to listen.—Rebecca Durrance 2 Corinthians 9:7 reads “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This is what comes to mind when I

12 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

think of my Grandaddy, Willard Durrance. Among many of his great qualities, Grandaddy was one of the most generous men I know. The fondest memories I have of my Granddaddy exemplify his gift of giving. Whether it was in the church, community, or amongst his family and friends Grandaddy did his part of generous giving.

Ever since I could remember on Christmas Eve my sisters and I would ride around town with him and deliver roasts and other goodies to family friends and families he did business with. These families meant a lot to my grandfather and he showed his gratitude by giving this gift to them each year. This was a tradition that he kept up until the last few years. I once thought he just brought us along to keep him company or help carry the food but I’ve come to realize that Grandaddy was trying to teach us a valuable life lesson during this time.

He knew the gift of generosity well and he wanted to pass this along to his granddaughters.

Towards the end of his life on earth, Grandaddy got really sick and it was hard to see him in his last few months. This is not how I will choose to remember him. Instead I will remember him as the loving, caring, generous, man he was who had a smile that lit up the room and hands that were always giving.

—Shelby Durrance

24 hrs a 7 days a day 365 days week a year

Est. 1969 DR. LARRY BRITT, DVM

Large Animal Vet Services General Practice Specializing in Equine Dentistry

HAUL TO CLINIC • Vaccinations $80 / save $10 (EWT/WN/RH/FLU/RAB/STRANGLES) • Coggins $30 / save $5 WE NOW OFFER CBC/CHEM PROFILE Get your baseline done today and save $40!

Ask us how...

SERVICE BUNDLE • Coggins • Vaccinations • Teeth Floating $209 / save $71 per horse!

914 E Knights Griffin Rd., Plant City, FL 33565 • 813.951.0118 cell • 813.752.0224 office 813.719.1913 fax • teethfloat@aol.com • www.horse-dentist.biz

Since I’m the youngest I probably don’t have as many memories as my sisters. I do remember going on rides with him to the pasture to look at the cows and him telling stories about the way it used to be. My granddaddy was also the youngest in his family and was also spoiled by his older sisters Faye, Noveta, and Jean. (My 3 older sisters not only pick on me but they also take care of me and sometimes spoil me.) He loved to talk about his parents, and how his father, Rev. Dow Durrance, preached at several churches in Hardee.

Their Sundays were spent traveling to church, often eating lunch with one of the church families and then returing to church for the evening services with his daddy preaching.

Thanksgiving was one of granddaddy’s favorite times of the year. He enjoyed going to the Old House (out on Kelly Roberts Road) and having Thanksgiving dinner with around 150 family members. He would have everyone sign a book, as this gathering has been going on for around 80 years. It has been a family tradition that everyone in our family is there each year and we see so many people that we don’t normally get a chance to visit with. After Thanksgiving dinner, we would make plans for our camping trip and continue on across the road for our annual camp-out. As we would sit around the fire, granddaddy would be full of stories of the “good old days” and how his family really didn’t have a whole lot but they never even realized it, because they were happy. Granddaddy was a great story-teller and with a wink-and- nod would have us laughing about something or someone from the “good ole days.”—Caroline Durrance

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 13

by Captain Mark King As the lake level continues to go down on Lake Okeechobee the fishing has been really good this summer so far. The water level is at around nine and a half feet above sea level and still dropping but with the rain that we have been getting lately they have not been letting as much water out to the farmers. The lake is at that level now that if you bring your boat here to go fishing you had better know where you are going or you could damage your boat or motor real easy. If you stay in the main channels and rim canal it is pretty safe but the lake proper is not the place to go right now.

I have been fishing both here on the lake and in the Keys for tarpon and the bass here on the lake have been pretty predictable with the low water level, they move into areas of deeper water like the rim canal, dynamite holes, and the main Clewiston channel. One of the neat things with the water being low is that it concentrates the bass and the bait fish and does make locating and catching bass easier. You can also catch bass a lot of different ways right now including topwater, soft plastic worms, and crankbaits. I am still catching a lot of bass throwing a shakey head jig and a Carolina rigged worm but I always start the morning out with topwater lure like a Zara Spook and if I do catch a few bass on it I will try it throughout the day. One thing about Lake Okeechobee if you do catch a few bass on topwater lure be sure and try it all day long because I have caught some giant bass here in the middle of the afternoon on topwater lures. Another great lure to use here on Okeechobee in the middle of the summer is a 10” worm with Gambler and Charlie’s worms being my two favorite worms to throw here on Okeechobee, rig it texas style with a small bullet weight like a 1/16 ounce. There are still a lot of bluegill beds out on the lake and a crankbait, swimbait, or my favorite a wake bait fished around these beds can produce some great results. Another great way to catch bass in the summer time here onLake Okeechobee is on flies, there usually isn’t much wind so fly casting isn’t a problem. I like to throw a fly that resembles a worm and my favorite colors are purple or black, I have also caught a few bass on poppers but here on Okeechobee a subsurface flies work best.

14 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

Client Curt Johnson from Oregon with a big Florida Keys tarpon

The Heartland’S FISHING REPORT

I am still guiding in the Keys out of Marathon as well as here on Lake Okeechobee for the summer so if you want to catch bass or bluegill on the lake or bonefish, permit, sharks, and snapper in the Keys just give me a call. I will also be offering lobster trips in the Keys both snorkeling and night time bully netting. Until next month good luck, tight lines, and hope to see everyone out on the water this summer.

Captain Mark King is a full time guide and tournament angler guiding out of the world famous Roland Martin’s Marina and Resort in Clewiston Florida and in the Florida Keys. Mark is an IGFA Certified Captain, active member of the Florida Guide Association and the Florida Outdoor Writers Association. Captain Mark is sponsored by Ranger Boats, Evinrude Outboards, Roland Martin’s Marine Center, U.S. Reel, Deep South Rods, Power-Pole, Minn Kota trolling motors, Gambler Lures, AFTCO clothing, Smartshield Sun Protection Products, RMR Industries, Fuel Medic Ethanol Treatment, and Frigid Rigid coolers.

Mark can be contacted to book a guide trip, seminars, personal appearances, test rides in his Evinrude powered Ranger or to fish a tournament with him at 863-677-0983 or at www. markkingfishing.com.

COW WITH ADEQUATE COPPER

Are you looking for a cooler that will last a lifetime and that you won’t need to get ice for it everyday? Then you need to try a Yeti Cooler like I did and haven’t looked back. I can put a bag of ice in my Yeti and will still have ice two days later and talk about a tough cooler I use mine to stand on in my flats boat so that I can get a little higher up to see fish. Rotational-molded construction makes a YETI virtually indestructible. Ordinary coolers are injection and/or blow-molded. These processes are relatively inexpensive, high-volume manufacturing methods commonly used for everyday products like soda bottles. On the other hand, YETI Coolers are rotational-molded (roto-molded), like whitewater kayaks, to ensure impact resistance and long-term durability. This process is more costly, but the end result is a cooler with a superior durability advantage. Once you handle a YETI, you’ll notice the big di fference.

In the end, the functional purpose of a cooler is to keep the contents cold. By combining thicker walls, added insulation (especially in the lid), and a full-frame gasket, YETI coolers out-insulate the others.

If you are looking for the ultimate cooler give Yeti a try I know you will be pleased. www.yeticoolers.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

COPPER-DEFICIENT COW

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

For more information contact Central States Enterprises 800.275.4429 www.censtates.com

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 15

Young Farmers & Ranchers

by Robbi Sumner

Brandon Storey

Bang 57 is a 280-acre ranch located in northeastern Okeechobee County that specializes in guided deer hunts. Brothers-in-law Gary Nicklaus and Bill O’Leary own the ranch, but for the past three years the day-to-day management has been entrusted to Brandon Storey, an area native and professional hunting guide who grew up on the neighboring 5,000-acre Sunny Grove ranch that his family has managed for over 40 years.

While considered a world-class hunting facility, Bang 57 Ranch is also home to a small herd of Red Angus cattle, so Storey’s ranch background comes in handy. In addition to the native white-tailed deer, wild boar, and Osceola turkeys who share the property, the ranch breeds a number of exotic deer including Red Stag, Sika, Fallow, Axis, Blackbuck, Pe’re David and Barasinga. Only a select number of exotic and white-tailed deer are hunted on the ranch every year, and Storey works closely with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to ensure that the exotics are being bred, raised and hunted according to prevailing regulations. FWC representatives visit the ranch annually to inspect fences, review herd numbers and issue permits as allowed.

Brandon has owned and operated his guide service, Storey Hunts, for 10 years and has hunting agreements with private ranches totaling approximately 30,000 acres in Florida where he guides Osceola turkey hunts. He boasts a 100 percent success rate the past six years, after having seen a reduction in the turkey population immediately after the 2004 hurricane season. He states that the population is now strong again, with many ranches seeing an increase in turkeys since he also helps to eliminate predators on the properties.

His wife Amy, who works as an executive assistant at Seacoast National Bank, also enjoys hunting and helps with the book keeping, marketing and the occasional guiding for Storey Hunts. The couple has decided to complete their “Grand Slams” together. In turkey hunting lingo, a Grand Slam is when a hunter has killed Rio Grande, Eastern, Merriam and Osceola

Buddy Mills teacher

turkeys. Accomplishing this feat requires traveling to different states, as the Osceola is the only turkey typically found in Florida. Since they have the Osceola under their belts the two went to Wyoming earlier this year for their Merriams, and look forward to future trips to bag the Rio Grande (found in the southwest U.S. and Mexico) and Eastern turkeys (found in other eastern states and Canada). Once their Grand Slams have been completed they will most likely look to add Gould (most commonly found in Mexico) and Ocellated (native to Central America) turkeys to achieve what is called a “World Slam.”

Brandon currently serves as the National Wild Turkey Federation Okeechobee Chapter President and Amy serves as Secretary. They have donated, through Storey Hunts, an Osceola hunting trip at the NWTF National Convention in Nashville, TN for the past five years. Founded in 1973, NWTF is a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving the wild turkey and preserving the hunting heritage in North America.

Local chapters hold annual banquets to raise money for wild turkey conservation and to fund important programs that introduce the outdoors to women, children and the disabled.

With ties to Mossy Oak, Brandon often appears in hunting videos shot by the company. He has three upcoming stories to be aired on Outdoor Life Network, Pursuit and Versus channels, and is particularly proud of one show that will feature a family hunt with his father and grandfather. “Although they are both avid outdoorsmen, they’ve never done a lot of turkey hunting, so that was a special outing,” he said.

Brandon acknowledges that he has his dream job, and is fortunate to make a living doing what he loves, especially with the support of his wife and family.

For more information about guided hunting opportunities, visit www.bang57.com, www.storeyhunts.com or call Brandon at 863.634.1358.

Either way you choose... you win!

Time to replace that older tractor?

Then come in today and get unbelievable deals on two of our best-selling series.

Pick the 5E Limited Series and get your choice of 83-, 93-, or 101-horsepower models, each with standard four-wheel drive, full-enclosed cab, and abundant hydraulic capacity. Pick the 6D Series and get even more choices: four models, 100to 140-horsepower engines, two- or fourwheel drive, closed-cab or open station.

Either way, you’ll get a new John Deerereliable machine with budget-stretching zero-percent financing, so come in today!

TO A HAPPY CUSTOMER At Seacoast National Bank, we know our customers lead busy lives and have diverse needs. That’s because we actually get to know our customers. Like Buddy Mills, a teacher, volunteer and loyal Seacoast National Bank customer. Buddy banks with us because we pay attention to his particular needs, with prompt and helpful service when he stops in to do his everyday banking, and easy-to-use technologies that work around his busy schedule. Buddy appreciates that we’re dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve, because he’s an enthusiastic volunteer himself. Stop in today to learn about the tailored services we’ve designed especially for you. And if you see Buddy, say hello.

JohnDeere.com/Ag

FIELDS EQUIPMENT COMPANY Since 1956

3440 US HWY 17 SOUTH ZOLFO SPRINGS, FL 33890 (863) 735-1122

3203 HAVENDALE BLVD WINTER HAVEN, FL 33881 (863) 967-0602

17215 HWY 27 NORTH MINNEOLA, FL 34715 (352) 394-7181

visit us online at fieldsquipment.com Offer ends August 1, 2011. Subject to approved credit on John Deere Financial installment plan. 0% for 60 months on 5E Limited Series tractors. Some restrictions apply, so see your dealer for complete details and other financing options. Valid only at participating US dealers. †Offer ends August 1, 2011. Subject to approved credit on John Deere Financial installment plan. 0% for 48 months on 6D Series tractors. Some restrictions apply, so see your dealer for complete details and other financing options. Valid only at participating US dealers.

*

South Parrott 863.467.4663 1409 S. Parrott Ave.

North Parrott 863.467.5330 500 N. Parrott Ave.

SeacoastNational.com

A0D02KKCU2F49596-00352994

16 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011 3657 Cowboy Ad 3.56x9.75.indd 1

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 17 6/10/11 2:28 PM

Parasite Control for Cattle Made Easy Looking for a cost-effective way to keep your cattle in top condition year-round? Try SafeGuard® Liquid Feed*, the first and only liquid feed dewormer on the market.

Not meant to replace your existing Spring and Fall deworming regimens, Safe-Guard Liquid Feed helps increase your profits by providing parasite protection without adding stress to the cattle or handling costs to your bottom line. How does it do this? By mixing dewormer (fenbendazole) with molasses, Intervet has provided a product that can be fed from an existing lick tank or other trough in your pasture. Eliminating the need to move cattle to pens is particularly important for bred heifers or bulls that you don’t want to over work in hot summer months.

Because cattle can become reinfected in as little as 21 days after being dewormed, it’s important to not wait too long between treatments. Before summer grass has started to grow well, the shorter length causes cattle to pick up more worms while grazing. Our current drought conditions have extended this period of poor grazing conditions for many. Cost effective Safe-Guard is a particularly beneficial treatment during the typical summertime parasite treatment gap.

Safe-Guard Liquid Feed is offered free-choice over a three to six day period and does not alter existing mineral and salt programs. Average consumption for a 1,100 lb. cow over a three to six day period is 10 lbs. A 550 lb. stocker will eat about 5 lbs. in a three to six day period.

Safe-Guard can be delivered directly to your pastures or smaller quantities can be purchased by the gallon at Walpole Feed & Supply. All we need to know is the head count on the cattle to be wormed and the approximate weight – cow weight, calf weight, bull weight, etc. With our program we can tell you exactly how much product will be needed.

It is suggested that producers monitor their parasite control program by using a Fecal Egg Count Reduction Test. Contact your veterinarian, Walpole Feed & Supply, or your local SafeGuard Liquid Feed dealer, for more information on this service.

To learn more about this innovative product, stop by or call Walpole Feed & Supply in Okeechobee, 863.763.6905. *Safe-Guard (fenbendazole) free-choice liquid type C medicated feed for use in dairy and beef cattle. Consult your local feed and animal health supplier for assistance in the diagnosis, treatment and control of parasitism. Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health - www.intervetusa.com – 800.521.5767 Residue Warning: cattle must not be slaughtered within 13 days following last treatment.

For dairy cattle, the milk discard time is zero hours. A withdrawal period has not been established for this product in pre-ruminating calves. Do not use in calves to be processed for veal.

SAFE-GUARD® (fenbendazole) LIQUID FEED

Walpole Feed & Supply

Hwy 98 North | PO Box 1723 Okeechobee, FL 34973 863.763.6905 | 800.343.8474

Taylor Oil Company, Inc. Fueling Our Community 863-453-3106

900 South Verona Avenue | Avon Park, FL 33825| Fax 863-453-0105

Call for a Quote Today!

Gasoline • On Road & Off Road Diesel • Lubricants & Grease

All Your Fueling Needs

18 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 19

Ag Commissioner Visits Okeechobee

by Robbi Sumner The Republican Party of Okeechobee welcomed Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Adam H. Putnam, as guest speaker during a June 8 luncheon held at Indian River State College’s Williamson Conference and Education Center.

According to Commissioner Putnam, in good times many people tend to forget about agriculture. In bad times people begin to appreciate the positive impact that agriculture has on our quality of life and recognize that agriculture remains a steady pillar of our economy. Agriculture stimulates community economies in a number of ways including vehicle, equipment and supply purchases, and by providing salaries to a number of workers.

Putnam outlined his vision for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, including a focus on the core mission and separating itself from responsibilities that don’t make sense. For example, certain legal decisions like those involving price gouging have been moved to the Attorney General’s Office, while the state’s Department of Energy now resides within FDACS. Water, stated Putnam, is the single biggest issue facing our state. No matter if you are growing citrus, involved in construction or tourism, water and its conservation and usage have the greatest economic and environmental impacts on our daily lives.

He spoke of the importance of Lake Okeechobee dike repairs and the role that the Office of Agricultural Water Policy will play in continuing to influence water quantity and water quality policies.

Putnam believes that Florida is well positioned to become a leader in energy issues by taking advantage of natural resources such as the panhandle timber belt. The year-round growing season in South Florida provides opportunities to grow efficient bio-fuel crops, expanding beyond corn, which has a tendency to drive up costs of other products like feed. “We are part of a unique global enterprise,” stated Putnam, citing the example of a North Florida timber producer shipping wood pellets to Europe that are used to heat homes in the Netherlands.

In the area of nutrition Putnam sees a need to work with

20 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

school districts to ensure that students are being served wellbalanced meals that include a variety of locally produced foods.

Many Florida crops peak during the school year and more should be incorporated in to school menus. Milk products – even flavored milk – remains an excellent source of protein and calcium.

He stated that the school lunch program was developed in part due to an inability of our armed forces to recruit healthy troops for World War II – many were under-nourished. Fast forward to today, and the opposite is true – many potential recruits suffer from obesity and much of our overall society’s health issues stem from poor diets.

When asked about immigration, Putnam expressed great concern over the issue, which “affects both ends of the employment spectrum, from high tech to labor.” We attract the brightest students, educate them and then send them back to their home countries rather than welcoming them and their talent for employment. “The system is broken on both the technological and legal sides,” he said, citing the use of paper passports and rubber stamps. He expressed need for a temporary guest labor program, and recognizes that the federal government’s reluctance to address the situation is only making matters worse, as some states are now developing their own immigration policies.

Putnam sees his department as being responsible for “creating an environment to succeed” and wants to “make Florida a haven to create wealth rather than just having wealth brought in that was created elsewhere. Opportunities exist for new commodities such as water farming, peaches, and the expansion of crops like blueberries and strawberries.” He wants to provide options for producers, including future land use options that go beyond selling out for development.

“We can never allow ourselves to become as reliant on other countries for food as we are for oil,” Putnam says, and he wouldn’t trade Florida’s problems or its potential for those of any other state. His goal is to “have agriculture be a prosperous, vibrant part of Florida’s economy for generations to come.”

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Come See Us for All Your Farm and Construction Equipment Needs

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 21

Justin Smith A Very Busy Young Man

Thank You...

To Highlands County Farm Bureau’s Heritage Sponsors.

by Jim Frankowiak Justin Smith has brought new meaning to the definition of “being busy.” The Wauchula native and son of Gail and David Smith, Justin’s primary job is as a citrus specialist and ag appraiser with Florida’s Department of Revenue, a post he has held since 2005. Smith specializes in appraising citrus lands in south Florida.

He also wears different hats with his family’s businesses, Smith Farms and Rogers Grove Service. His major responsibilities in these businesses are land and technology management.

He has recently taken a role of organizing and coordinating psyllid management sprays in the south-west quadrant of Hardee County, under an IFAS Citrus Health Management Area (CHMA). Justin is married to Cindi and father to Zackary, Blake and Heidi. The Smith family resides in Wauchula.

An alumnus of South Florida Community College with degrees in citrus and agribusiness and a BA from Warner Southern in Organizational Management, Justin is also pursuing a Master of Science and ultimately a Doctorate, both in Administration from the University of West Florida. He is the youth Sunday school teacher at Oak Grove Baptist Church in Wauchula. His Oak Grove service also includes chairing new building projects and a seat on the board of trustees for the church.

When there’s an opportunity, Smith and his family enjoy spending time at their beach house in Englewood. “A sixth generation Floridian, I grew up enjoying all that Charlotte Harbor has to offer and our family continues to do so.”

“When I have time I find myself either reading or writing,” he added, a trait he attributes to his grandmother, Janiece Rogers, who wrote poems, children stories and songs.

Justin is a regular contributor to Heartland In The Field Magazine with a monthly column on citrus.

Though he is unquestionably busy, Justin always puts his family first. “Even though I do a lot of things with my state 22 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

position and family businesses, my wife and children are most important to me closely followed by church. Because all of my work is done from my home, I have my kids with me even at work. Nothing I do would be worth it without my family.”

Getting back to his primary position with the state, Justin admits to growing up when most, if not all, subscribed to the adage that one “told the tax man nothing.” Through his education, agricultural work and position with the state, he has come to realize the error in that way of thinking. “It is simply wrong to keep the tax man in the dark,” said Smith, who was responsible for developing an electronic methodology for appraising citrus groves—a methodology used to audit county property appraisers in establishing taxable value for citrus lands. His methodology has been in use since 2007 and “continues to be tweaked.”

Smith notes citrus taxes are based “on the produceable value of property, not what someone will pay for it. This is a very specialized appraisal and requires the best and most current information. When the information is limited or non-existent, the property appraiser has to make an educated guess. I have found that this typically results in higher taxing values. In essence, keeping information from the tax man is more harmful than beneficial,” said Smith.

His current focus with the state is to work with county property appraisers to help them utilize his methodology and to educate people so they understand the benefits of openly sharing information with those responsible for valuating property. As a statutory officer of the state, he is also charged with auditing the county property appraisers on their agricultural values.

“I have come to realize that the best knowledge works in favor of agriculture and it is essential if we are to keep agriculture growing in Florida,” said Smith.

Please support these businesses! www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 23

Hunting the West with Jay Houston

Why Bulls Bugle

ES ON NO SAL AY MOND Or h JULY 4t DAY WEDNES6th JULY

Hunting the rut can be one of the most exhilarating events in the life of an elk hunter. It is that time of the year when the clear crisp “Ooh-h-h-e-ee-E-E-E-a-h-h” bugle of a bull elk slices through a frosty September morning announcing the commencement of yet another adventure in elk country.

Streams that ran freely throughout the summer may have begun to form thin layers of ice while colors of red and gold seem to burst from every avenue of the high country like a signal flag to hunters everywhere.

The serenade of a bull elk bugling has become synonymous with the rut. So why do bulls bugle?

Contrary to a fairly widely held belief, a bull’s bugle is not a challenge to battle, but more so the bull’s way of saying, “Pick me.” Years of evidence suggest that the primary reason bulls bugle is advertisement. In the mating ritual it is the cow that makes the decision which bull she will mate with. Knowing that the survival of her calf will depend to a great extent upon its genetic makeup, the cow seeks a suitable mate whose contribution will pass along those desirable traits that she is looking for. The choices that determine the future viability and vitality of the herd are made by the cow, so she will seek out the most robust and healthy bull that she can find to mate with. The bulls are well aware of this and spend the early days of autumn pronouncing their superiority to all who will listen, cows and competing bulls alike.

When a bull bugles he will extend his neck and raise his head tilting his chin upward opening his mouth often curling his upper lip back exposing his top row of teeth including his upper incisors or buglers, sometimes referred to as ivories. From deep within his massive chest the bull begins to exhale, the hot air rushing upwards through his trachea, across his vocal cords and outwards across his retracted tongue into the air. As he exhales more and more pressure is exerted on the diaphragm causing the airflow to quicken. It is by controlling the airflow that the bull changes the pitch of the sounds coming forth.

When a rutting bull has gathered his cows, his bugle is often lower and shorter sounding more like “E E E eunk…eunk, eunk.” It is a brief series of guttural grunts designed to console his cows, settle them down and strengthen the bond with them that he has established. This is far different from the full-blown three-octave bugle, designed to impress a cow or intimidate other bulls saying, “Stay away. I’m superior. These girls are mine.”

If you have a bugle type call and know how to use it, the rut is the time that this type of a call can make a very real and positive difference in the outcome of your hunt, as bulls are far more susceptible

24 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

Monday’s Sale - 12 noon

(Bring Your Cattle Sunday 10am - 7pm or Sale Day)

Go To Mar

ket

Wednesday’s Sale - 12 noon

(Bring Your Cattle Tuesday 8am - 9pm or Sale Day)

Upcoming Special Sales

Owned and Operated by:

October:

Located on Hwy. 17 (8 miles north of Arcadia, FL)

September:

November:

December:

to calling. Once the rut has passed, I usually put my bugle in the bottom of my daypack and leave it there. Experience has demonstrated that once the breeding season is complete, a bugle tends to get the elk’s attention all right, it pushes them into the next county. The last thing a bull that has been herding and breeding cows for weeks needs is to get into it with another bull. More often than not they are prone to just gather the girls up and head out at the first sight or sound of another bull.

If you think about it, bull elk are not all that different than human males when it comes to the mating ritual. We spoof ourselves up, splash a little of whatever she likes on ourselves, and then begin talking up a line that we think will impress her. If all goes well… great. If not, bulls and boys alike usually let loose with some vocal sign of their frustration. How about that?

Let ’s

Friday, Sept. 23rd at 1:00pm FCA Replacement Heifer Sale Friday, Oct. 7th at 1:00pm Florida Fall Black Bull Sale Mo Brangus & Hines Cattle Co. Brangus & Angus Bulls Friday, Nov. 11th at 1:00pm Black & White Bull Sale Meadows Creek Farm & Pintlala Cattle Company Charolais & Angus Bulls Wednesday, Dec. 28th at 12:00 noon Special Slaughter Cow & Bull Sale

Carl McKettrick and Joe Hilliard II

863-494-3737 863-494-1808 Fax: 863-494-5933 www.arcadiastockyard.com

You Can Bank On Our Experience!

We’re here to help you and your business with all your financial needs.

See you around the camp fire,

Jay

Jay Houston is the President/CEO of HUNT CONNECTIONS, a nationally recognized speaker on his Christian faith and the outdoors, and the author of five highly successfully books on elk hunting the west. In future issues, Jay will be sharing exciting stories of hunting the high country and more tips for big game hunting success in Hunting the West.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Six convenient locations in Hardee and Highlands Counties www.wauchulastatebank.com www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

Member FDIC

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 25

Big Buck Expo!

2011 Southern Trophy Hunters

Release of New Paintings

by Robert Butler, Florida Highwaymen Artist

Precision Citrus Hedging & Topping, Inc.

Couture’s Gallery in Sebring is proud to introduce several new 2011 original paintings by Robert Butler.

Robert is one of the original 26 Florida Highwaymen. He was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall Of Fame in 2004. Robert is best known for his portrayals of the backwaters around the Everglades and his rural and wildlife portrayals of Central Florida life.

His paintings are on display in many corporate and private collections in the U.S. and around the world. His paintings have graced many magazine covers and have been featured in numerous articles and in juried shows throughout the years.

Couture’s Gallery in Sebring has over 20 Robert Butler originals on display, including the pictured new 2011 releases, as well as some older originals. This is one of the largest collections of Robert’s works in the area. The gallery also has numerous limited edition canvas giclees and lithograph prints of Robert’s vast works on displayboth framed and unframed art.

Couture’s commissioned Robert to paint “Hammock Creek,” a painting of the boardwalk over Charlie Bowlegs Creek in Highlands Hammock State Park. The original, as well as two sizes of limited edition canvas giclees and a lithograph print are available exclusively at Couture’s Gallery.

“One Highwayman’s Story,” a biography of his life, is in final stages of publication later this year. If you would like to be included in an invitation to the introduction and signing event please email Couture’s at couture@vistanet.net and mention the book-signing event to be added to the invitation list.

Shown are some of the new 2011 Robert Butler paintings on display at Couture’s Gallery. Visit the gallery to view many more originals, limited edition prints, and canvas giclees of Robert’s art.

Couture’s Gallery is conveniently located on U.S. 27 in Sebring just south of the Home Depot and directly across from Lowe’s.

Hours are 9:00 am – 5:30 pm Monday through Friday and 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Saturdays. You can reach Couture’s at 863-386-0029 or couture@vistanet.net. You can view their website at www.CouturesArt.com.

26 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

“A Cut Above”

Precision PUMP Service A Division of Precision Citrus Hedging & Topping, Inc.

Pump Repair & Service Water Conditioning Turbine Diesels Installed Commercial Residential Serving Florida One Pump at a Time 24 Hour Service

Don’t Cuss, Call Us!

WE MAKE HYDRAULIC HOSES

863-439-1852 PO Box 1921• Haines City, FL 33845

Hedging • Herbiciding Skirting • Topping • Tree Planting Owner - David Lawson, Jr.

863-287-2587

PO Box 1921• Haines City, FL 33845 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 27

s errie. b f o a etern Florid k r a i r m es emieegetabl r p A v

Come Grow With Us

1-800-330-3145

For 24-Hour Roadside Service

100 Stearn Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 Tel: 813.752.5111 www.wishfarms.com

Call: 1-863-452-2031

• AG TIRES • FUEL TANKS • TOOL BOXES • CUSTOM HITCHES– 5TH WHEEL, GOOSENECK • SEMI/RV ALIGNMENT • COMPLETE AUTO & TRUCK SERVICE 1109 W. Main Street Avon Park, FL 33825 28 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

and

Have you ever wondered why Fred’s Market in Plant City is so popular? I’ll tell you why! It’s because he serves the best grits in the south, that’s why! None of that instant stuff, only honest-to-goodness southern grits, regular and cheese grits. Cooked the way the Lord intended them to be cooked.

For you folks that don’t like grits, then don’t eat corn, ‘cause it’s one in the same.

I was raised on grits and ate it for breakfast, noon and supper.

There’s nothing better than grits with tomato gravy, fried catfish and hushpuppies.

I’ll bet Fred’s sells more grits than all the restaurants within a 20 mile radius of Plant City. He is running a close second to St. George, South Carolina, “The Grits Capital of the World.”

I discovered that grits lovers by the thousands gather in St. George, South Carolina each April to enjoy three days of ‘true grits’ fun at the World Grits Festival.

They have a blast with festival events that includes a parade, special grits meals, arts and crafts, street dancing, clogging, a carnival, and you guessed it, a grits eating contest, plus a rolling-in the-grits contest.

July 2011

This blow out came about in 1985 when it was discovered that the town of St. George consumed more grits per capita than any other place in the world. This 25-year-old event now attracts as many as 50,000 people in three days. I think I might get a bus load of local grits eaters and join their celebration next year. Who knows, we might bring home the “Grits Eat’n Championship” trophy next year.

If you think the Grits Festival is unusual, then think again.

There’s the “RC and Moon Pie Festival” in Bell Buckle, Tennessee every June. This one-day event is centered around eating moon pies and drinking RC Cola. You’ll find vendors selling different variations of moon pie dishes, including deep fried moon pies. The festivities conclude when the world’s largest moon pie is cut and served by the Festival King and Queen with the assistance of the Knights of the Moon Pie Round.

Each September over in Marlinton, West Virginia there is the annual “West Virginia Road Kill Cook-Off.” They have such culinary creations as squirrel gravy over biscuits or teriyaki marinated bear.

There’s one dish that everybody craves, it’s

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

called “The Buck Stops Here.” For more information contact the Pocahontas County Chamber of Commerce-Road Kill CookOff. Maybe the Plant City Chamber should send a couple of their winners from Pig Jam this year. I am sure Mark Poppell could find something to cook on the way up there.

Irmo, South Carolina holds the title of the nation’s “Original Okra Celebration.” This is a two-day event complete with a parade and an okra man! The highlight of the celebration is a street dance where every one does the “Okra Strut.”

When planning your winter vacation you may want to stop in for the November “Chitlin’Strut” in Salley, South Carolina.

This event is big enough to be held at the Salley Civic Center and the Fairgrounds.

They say the event attracts more than 50,000 hungry chitlin fans, who consume more than 10,000 pounds of chitlins. You’ll enjoy such fun events as a hawg-calling, the chiltin strut, and the chitlin eating contest. If you think I am making this up then go to the U.U. Library of Congress and look it up. They are listed as one of the entries to represent South Carolina in the “Funny Food Festivals of the Southeastern United States.”

In August I had the pleasure of attending the world’s first “Green Bean Festival” in Blairsville, Georgia. The center of the

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

activity was held in the downtown square around the historic old courthouse. It started on a Friday night with a good old fashion square dance in front of the now famous “Hole In The Wall” restaurant. There were green bean dishes of all kinds. Linda Connell and Martha Wright of Plant City were there and even made green bean cookies that were served along with green bean tea and a special concoction green bean shake at the information booth. This event was a big hit,

and they’ll do it again next year.

Well it was a slow day in a small northwest Florida town. The sun was so hot you could cook an egg on the sidewalk.

The streets are deserted, times are tough, everybody is in debt, and everybody is living on credit.

On one particular day a rich tourist from the north was driving through town. He stopped at the one and only motel, laid a $100 bill on the desk, and told the clerk he wanted to inspect the rooms upstairs in

July 2011

order to pick one where he would spend the night.

As soon as the man walks upstairs, the owner grabs the bill and runs next door to pay his debt to the butcher.

The butcher takes the $100 and runs down the street to pay his debt to the hog farmer.

The hog farmer takes the $100 and takes off to pay his bill at the supplier of feed and fuel.

The man at the Farmer’s Co-Op took the $100 over to pay his back debt at the gas station.

The owner of the gas station rushed to the hotel and paid the $100 bill for some of his relatives that came to visit during a family reunion.

The hotel proprietor then places the $100 back on the counter so the rich traveler will not suspect anything. At that moment the traveler comes down the stairs, picks up the $100 bill, and told the clerk that the rooms were not satisfactory, pockets the money, and leaves town.

Notice that no one produced anything.

No one earned anything. However the whole town is now out of debt, and now looks to the future with a lot more optimism.

And that, in my opinion, is how the United States Government is conducting business these days!

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 29

BC86_286_Ad

BC86_286_Ad

6/15/11

•

Snake’s scales are made up of something called keratin, which is the same thing that our fingernails are made from.

•

A mother pythons will coil themselves around their eggs and make their bodies shiver in order to heat herself up and keep the eggs warm until they hatch

•

The longest snake is the reticulated python. It can grow up to 10.05 meters or 33 feet long!

3:29 PM

6/15/11

3:29 PM

Page 1

Page 1

Building In Hardee, Highlands, Lake and Desoto Counties At Arthur Rutenberg Homes we offer a wide variety of floor plans and elevations beginning at 1,500 square feet, with the ability to customize your home to match your lifestyle.

•

The thickest snake is the anaconda. The biggest one found measured 111 centimeters or 44 inches around. That’s huge!

10-year Service Credo | Competitive pricing with other builders Over 80 time-tested floor plans | Guaranteed quality craftsmanship | Gold Standard Closing Work with our professional Interior Designers to make your personal selections for your home

•

The thread snake is the smallest snake. It is only about 10 centimeters (4 inches long) and the size of a toothpick.

Let us show you how easy it is to build your dream home. Call today for an appointment to see our fully furnished model and to receive a complementary issue of the latest Legendary Homes magazine.

•

Vine snakes are remarkable because they appear to have binocular vision.

•

Many zookeepers believe that cobras are faster learners than other snakes.

They are able to tell the difference between their trainer and strangers.

•

The ancient Greek god, Asklepios, was thought to be a healer of the sick and injured. People would take an offering to the temple and wait for Asklepios to either come to them in their dreams or send his servants, the snakes, to help them. One touch of the forked tongue was all they thought they needed to heal them. The healing snake was the Aesculapian snake. The Romans would bring this snake into their temples rather than the Greek healers. To this day the Aesculapian snake forms part of the symbols representing physicians and veterinarians.

Toll Free: 866-553-3044 Office: 863-248-2981

Building In Hardee, Highlands, Lake and Desoto C

•

•

Let us show you how easy it is to build your dream home. Call today for an appointment to see Vampire bats prey mainly on cows, horses and other large mammals. furnished model and to receive a complementary issue of the latest Legendary Homes magazi Benjamin Franklin wanted to make the wild turkey, not the bald eagle, the national bird of the United States!

Hours: Mon - Fri 9-5 Sat 9-2

•

Domestic or tame turkeys weigh twice what a wild turkey does and are raised on farms for profit.

•

Most domestic turkeys are so heavy they are unable to fly.

www.HeartlandGold.com

•

When a bear ‘hibernates’ it is really in a deep sleep. It’s body temperature drops but not drastically and it does not wake up... not even to go to the bathroom or get food.

•

Some snakes can smell with their noses but ALL snakes smell with their tongues. When a snake sticks out its tongue it smells its surroundings.

1102 S. 6th Avenue Wauchula, FL 33873 S. 6th Avenue & Stenstrom Road

863-773-4466

30 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

berg home. They are also a certified Energy Star builder and can turn any of their 80+ time-tested floor plans into an eco-friendly “green” home.

Mike Webb grew up in southwestern Virginia on a farm, raising livestock, growing crops and managing orchards. He understands the importance of agriculture and its impact on our daily lives. Mike, owner of Florida Heartland Homes, Inc., and builder for 40 years, is ready to help you build your dream home. He says, “I am honest, ethical, and always do the right thing. This is how I run my life, my business, and how I raised my family. Frank Lloyd Wright once said ‘God is in the details’, and it is these details in our designs that separate us from the competition. We invite you to discover the elegance, craftsmanship, and lasting value expressed in every home we build, whether it’s one of our many award-winning model homes or the home of your dreams.”

Contact Florida Heartland Homes, Inc. today at (863) 248-2981 or e-mail Mike Webb directly at mwebb@arhomes.com. Experience for yourself why Arthur Rutenberg is still the name most homeowners trust.

10-year Service Credo | Competitive pricing with other builders A reticulated python, named Colossus, was the largest snake that ever lived in a Over 80 time-tested floor plans | Guaranteed quality craftsmanship | Gold Standard Closin zoo. She lived at the Pittsburgh Zoo in Pennsylvania. Clifford Pope, the author of a book entitled “The Giant Snakes” reported that she was 22 feet long when Work with our professional Interior Designers to make your personal selections for your ho she was captured in what is now Thailand in 1949. Eight years later she grew to 28 ½ feet long. Her body was 37 ½ inches around and her weight was around 320 pounds.

•

Arthur Rutenberg, a respected name in homebuilding since 1953, built his first home upon the four “Cornerstones” that would make him legendary: Design, Craftsmanship, Service and Responsibility. He turned his business into a franchised company expanding across the southeastern United States, using these same core values that made him a success as a business owner. Arthur Rutenberg has forever changed the landscape of residential homebuilding.

Each of the franchisee owners is a proven builder who is dedicated to advancing Art’s personal vision of building fine custom homes worthy of both his name…and theirs. They continue to perfect the innovative yet classic design concepts Art first introduced decades ago: the split-bedroom floor plan; the centralized custom kitchen; the extensive use of glass; and the open, airy common areas seamlessly blending outdoors with indoors. They incorporate the owner’s personality into the home itself and can customize every aspect so that the home is truly one-of-a-kind.

Florida Heartland Homes, Inc. is an independent franchise of Arthur Rutenberg Homes and is here to bring you everything you have come to know and expect from a Ruten-

At Arthur Rutenberg Homes we offer a wide variety of floor plans and elevations beginning at This would be funny to watch! The hognose, grass snake and the spitting cobra square feet, with the ability to customize your home to match your lifestyle. will fake death when feeling threatened. They flip onto their backs, open their mouths, and let their tongue flop out. And they will let out some smelly stuff from their anal gland. Nobody would want to eat it after that!

•

Florida Heartland Homes. Inc., an independent franchise • FL License #CGC1516526

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Toll Free: 866-553-3044 Office: 863-248-2981

Florida Heartland Homes. Inc., an independent franchise • FL License #CGC1516526 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 31

The Future Faces of Florida Ag

by Morgan Taylor Norris As the sea of blue and gold jackets rushed through the doors of the 83rd Florida State FFA Convention and Leadership Conference, history was made. A total of 3, 729 members and guests gathered at the Caribe Royale in Orlando on June 13-17.

The National FFA Organization is a long-standing tradition in the state of Florida, and the history of that tradition was seen at this past state convention. The organization’s mission states that the FFA is based on premier leadership, personal growth and career success. During the week, keynote speakers encouraged, students competed and victories were celebrated. It was a true representation of the mission.

32 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

Throughout the year, students compete in Career Development Events (CDEs) at Sub-District, District and State levels to be awarded at the state convention. CDEs cover all areas of agriculture: from tractor driving to forestry, to aquaculture and livestock judging. The FFA also hosts CDEs in areas outside of production agriculture with competitions in Agricultural Communications, Prepared and Extemporaneous Speaking and Sales and Services. These Career Development Events allow members to gain experience and create leadership and team building skills useful in all walks of life.

Another part of the FFA is Supervised Agricultural Experiences, or SAE. Students with an SAE learn by doing. With

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

help from their agricultural teachers, students develop an SAE project based on one or more SAE categories including: entrepreneurship, placement, research and experimentation or exploratory. This is another example how the FFA strives to build up its members.

The leaders who are created through this organization are the future faces of Florida agriculture. Leadership is encouraged in the FFA beginning at the school level with chapter officers up to the state FFA officer team. In Florida, the FFA is divided into six areas, which are then split into two districts, and multiple sub-districts. There is a state vice president to represent each area in addition to a president and secretary in each district and sub-district. Many of these leaders have continued on to lead our state in various roles.

Representative Leonard Brumby, a former Florida FFA member, came to speak at the convention. Rep. Brumby is the ranking member in the Florida House Ag and Natural Resources Sub-Committee and has been in production agriculture for 35 years. “It is a life-long love affair for me,” Brumby says. “There is no occupation more rewarding or more fulfilling than agriculture.” He encouraged the FFA members to continue to be representatives of Florida ag and said, “It is important to have committed, sold-out people who are willing to go to the wall to protect agriculture and our way of life

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

in this state.”

The state officer team is elected from a select group of individuals who have gone through a rigorous screening process. Once through the screening process, the candidates campaigned throughout the state vying for eight positions: six area vice presidents, state secretary and state president.

These officers are voted on by delegates from each school’s chapter and are announced at the final general session of the state convention. As soon as state convention is over, the new officer team begins their one-year term as ambassadors for Florida agriculture and the FFA. With these elected positions, they have the opportunity to influence, impact and serve FFA members, advisors, teachers and supporters. In his retiring address, the 2010-2011 State President, Clay Sapp, said, “It is our opportunity to be the advocates for the agriculture industry. It is time to take a stand for Florida and American agriculture.”

The Heartland was well represented at this year’s 83rd Florida FFA State Convention and Leadership Conference.

The theme of the convention this year was History in the Making and that theme was quite fitting. At the 10th general session of convention, the first African-American Florida State FFA President was announced, Charlie Brown from the Avon Park Senior FFA Chapter.

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 33

1092 Locke St. | Avon Park, FL 33825 Wildly s Keep icetronger! longer!

www.layestire.com 863-453-3333

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR • TIRES & WHEELS • BATTERIES TRUCK ACCESSORIES • TOOL BOXES • TRANSFER FUEL TANKS

President Charlie Brown

Charlie Brown owes his involvement in the FFA to his middle school advisor, Mrs. Kellie Duke. She encouraged him to join the Parliamentary Procedure team, and he says that it was the opportunity to meet new people that got him to stay involved. Because of that first push from Mrs. Duke, Charlie is now an outstanding FFA member who has held various chapter and District 11 offices and has been awarded multiple times for his speaking competitions. To Charlie, the FFA is a getaway. He says it is also a teacher for reallife situations. “FFA is a home for me, it has taken me in.”

When asked what the FFA does to prepare students for future careers in the agricultural industry, Charlie explained that it teaches both social and leadership skills that can be used in every part of life. He said that parliamentary procedure teaches how to properly run a meeting, and his favorite competition, extemporaneous speaking, teaches the ability to speak off-the-cuff. He also mentioned that CDEs give students hands-on experience.

34 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

An example of this is the Food Science CDE where members can learn about the food industry and compete in events such as product and label creation.

As a new state officer and president of the organization, Charlie says that his greatest responsibility is being a role model to the members of Florida FFA. Charlie is no stranger to leadership though. In addition to the previously mentioned leadership roles within the FFA, he was elected Boys Nation President, was selected to attend the Rotary’s Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders and the Summer Seminar at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. Florida FFA provides outstanding opportunities to the state officers such as serving as a delegate at the National FFA Convention.

They will also attend Ag on the Hill in Tallahassee and oversee all CDE competitions to verify that they are run properly. The officer team also has the opportunity to travel to Argentina where they will learn about the country’s agricultural industry as well as teach them about American agriculture.

Charlie is inspired by his mother, as she is a single mom and doubles as both parents.

Charlie says that she sets a good example for him in that she is a hard worker and never complains. She has always encouraged him to reach for his goals. After his one-year term as state president, Charlie plans to attend the University of Florida where he will study political science and public administration. He would then like to attend law school and become a politician. He said that he has been interested in politics since the 2000 election and would love to become the Commissioner of Agriculture, as that combines his love for the law and the ag industry.

If he could talk to past agriculturalists who have gone before him, Charlie would like them to know that they are putting agriculture in good hands and not to worry about

July 2011

where the industry is going. He said that not only will the future be involved in production agriculture as farmers and ranchers, they will also be the lawyers who protect the industry, the scientists to make crops and animals bigger and better and the businessmen who invest and create money for the industry to continue.

“The FFA is more than just cows, sows and plows, and we are here to teach that to young and old alike,” Charlie said.

Secretary Haley Webb

Haley Webb, of Charlotte FFA, was elected as the Florida FFA State Secretary. To her, FFA is life. Haley said, “It is a tradition in my family that I hope to continue.” Haley’s grandfather started that tradition years ago when he was an advisor and ag teacher. His children, both Haley’s mother and uncle, carried on that tradition as ag teachers and FFA advisors themselves. Now Haley and her sister, Hilary are following in those same footsteps.

Haley describes visiting her grandparents’ home as a young girl and seeing the impact that the FFA had on their lives. She told of the walls of trophies, plaques and pictures from her grandfather’s teams. She said, “It was then that I saw what the FFA could offer

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Open Monday - Saturday 8-5 4803 US 27 South | Sebring (863) 385-1111

Largest Retail & Wholesale Nursery in the County—35 Acres Full Trees shown are $195.00 each installed in Highlands County

and what it could give to me.”

As a state officer, Haley is most looking forward to the experiences she will share as a team, getting to know the other seven officers and impacting the members of the FFA. She emphasized the importance of FFA and agriculture and said that without ag, there would be no world. “It was at the beginning of time and will be here until the end,” Haley said.

“I am exited to spread that message and the word of ag with my seven other team members.”

When asked the purpose of FFA, Haley said, “It is a common misconception that FFA is all about raising and showing animals, but it is so much more! It is a leadership organization through agricultural education that has diversified and grown through the years.” The name change in 1988 represents that diversification as it changed from the Future Farmers of America to The National FFA Organization. It teaches students leadership skills and confidence which give young individuals like Haley endless possibilities.

Haley’s extensive resume shows those endless possibilities as she has held offices at every level in the organization and also in other organizations such as the Florida Junior Cattlemen’s Association State Secretary, a position she has held for two years. In the FFA, she has competed in Creed Speaking, Prepared Public Speaking, Parliamentary Procedure, and was a member on the Forestry and Livestock Evaluation teams.

Haley’s sister, Hilary, is her role model and inspiration. Hilary is a past state officer, and Haley said that she didn’t just follow into Hilary’s footsteps. She saw how “FFA has molded Hilary into the young lady she is today. She has accomplished so much in the organization and I admire her for that.”

Haley plans to attend the University of Florida to study animal science and to become

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

either a large animal veterinarian or a large animal chiropractor. Her love for working with animals began when she was showing cows though the 4-H at eight years old.

Haley has had the opportunity to meet FFA members from across the state and she says that they are the leaders of tomorrow’s ag industry. “It is inspiring to see their passions for FFA and the ag industry as a whole,” she said. “There should be no worries for past agriculturalists. The future of agriculture is bright.”

Area VI State Vice President James Sharpe

The Area VI State Vice President James Sharpe came from our Heartland’s Okeechobee FFA Chapter. James said, “FFA is a tool that God has used in my life to give me the opportunity to grow through serving others.”

When he first joined the FFA, it was from a “kick and shove” from his advisor, Buddy Mills. James is now extremely grateful for that encouragement and says his love for the organization grew from there. He started showing

July 2011

hogs first and then began attending conferences and competing in CDEs. He has had a communications SAE for a few years where he writes for an agricultural publication. James also used the skills he learned in ag mechanics to make horseshoe ornaments and bar-b-que grills as a fundraiser for his chapter.

“The thing that I like most about becoming a state officer is that I will finally feel like I have given back what I have taken from this organization.” To James, the FFA is a way of life. He describes it as “a group of people with the same attitude, preserving the industry we all love.”

James mentioned that his advisors, Mr. Mills, Mr. Dryden and Mr. Gerbitz have been inspirations through his years as an FFA member. He is thankful for their encouragement and support and is looking forward to giving back to them as he represents their area.

He is also looking forward to bringing ag ties back into his family tradition and serving the members of the Florida FFA. After his term, James wants to study Agricultural Education and Communication at the University of Florida. His goal is to come back to his hometown of Okeechobee to teach agriculture.

The National FFA Organization, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, is a national youth organization of 523, 309 student members-as part of 7,487 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The National FFA Organization changed to its present name in 1988, in recognition of the growth and diversity of agriculture and agriculture education. The FFA’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.

For more information visit www.flaffa.org

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 35

E R U T L U C I IN AGR

by Robbi Sumner

Jaunett Watford Lee

Since she was a young girl, Jaunett Watford Lee remembers “just wanting to have my own herd of cattle, so that I could manage and care for them as I saw fit.” These days, she not only takes care of her own cattle operation, but also manages a separate ranch for an out-ofstate owner.

Born and raised in Okeechobee, Jaunett always enjoyed helping her father, Curtis Waldron, as well as grandparents, aunts and uncles with their cattle, and participating in FFA. In her high school FFA chapter, she held the office of secretary and received her American Farmers Degree, an accomplishment that she remains proud of today.

She showed steers at the youth livestock sale and used the proceeds to buy cows from her Granny (at favorable prices)! Then by the age of 18, Jaunett accumulated 20 head of her own cattle and had her own Triangle J brand that she still uses today.

Her herd now numbers about 400 head of commercial cattle, mostly Brangus, that roam her 943-acre ranch. Jaunett takes care of all of the day-to-day work on the ranch, hiring help only when necessary for working the cattle or preparing for shipping. She is happy to show off her two John Deere tractors that she uses for mowing, re-planting pastures and helping with other ranch chores. Since Cypress Slough runs through her property, in wet times a tractor is sometimes needed to get across to the other side to check on the cattle and fence conditions. Since losing most of her windmills during the 2004-2005 hurricane seasons, solar powered pumps have been utilized to keep water troughs full. She states that they were partially funded by the USDA Equip Program and she has been happy with their performance.

While her family always favored the Brangus breed, it took a number of years to convert predominantly to that breed, as she tends to keep most of her cows until they are 10 or 11 years old. “Most

36 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

people cull cows at around eight years old, but as long as they are healthy and producing, I see no reason to part with them,” she says.

Although most of her 20 bulls are Brangus, she occasionally uses Charolais, since their calves tend to weigh more. The bulls are semen-tested annually, but she also closely watches their behavior in the pasture.

According to Jaunett, “If a bull isn’t working, he’s culled regardless of age or test results.” Her heifers are kept in a separate pasture until they are three years old. This allows them to be given extra attention before being turned out with the rest of the herd. They are also bred to smaller bulls for easier calving.

In addition to her property, Jaunett leases two smaller parcels of land where she keeps special projects. For example, she partners with a friend to purchase several low weight cows each January. This particular friend happens to be a potato farmer, and culled potatoes are used to fatten the cattle and sell for a profit about 6 months later.

Sometimes those cows are found to be pregnant, in which case their calves are then also raised and sold once they reach about 500 pounds.

For the past 13-14 years, Jaunett has managed a nearby 450-acre ranch for an out-of-state owner. That ranch at one time back-grounded approximately 3,000 head of steers per year, but is now home to about 200 head of Brangus cattle. The property’s four man-made lakes are kept stocked with bass and bluegills for recreational fishing.

When asked what else she might have done if her childhood wish hadn’t come true, Jaunett jokes that she’d “probably be flipping burgers” as cattle are what she has known her whole life. Her favorite part of being a cattlewoman is seeing a healthy momma cow with a calf by its side.

On April 30th of this year, Jaunett married her best friend, Gary Lee of Kissimmee, and says that she “couldn’t be happier.” Gary manages three ranches, and raises his own American Quarter Horses for cutting, barrel racing, and other uses. Jaunett is a member of the Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Association, and is very proud that her son Lee is a fourth generation cattleman. Lee is active in the family operation and is manager of the Williamson Cattle Company State Road 60 operation. He and his wife Shannon live next door with their 2 children, Carson and Leyton. Her granddaughter Taylor also lives on the ranch and is active with the cattle. Jaunett loves having her “kids close by” and spends time with them whenever she has a chance.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

CARPET • WOOD • TILE • LAMINATE • VINYL • AREA RUGS

n a m Wo

ST LARGECK O T IN-S ING FLOOR ORY T N INVE WN IN TO

Everything Interior & Patio • Flooring • Window Treatment • Patio Furniture • Wall Paper • Shades, Blinds, Verticals • Fireplaces (gas & electric) • Interior Design Services • Installation • Commercial/Residential

Family Owned & Operated Since 1978

Chamber of Commerce Member

560 US. Hwy. 27 North Sebring, FL 33870 (863) 385-4796 www.carpetpatioblinds.com

HOURS Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday 8:00am to 1:00pm

Trinkle, Redman, Swanson, Coton, Davis & Smith, P.A. Attorneys at Law

Our Practice CORPORATE & BUSINESS LAW • Incorporations, Partnerships & LLCs • Acquisitions, Sales & Mergers • Employer & Employee Relations FAMILY LAW • Dissolution of Marriage • Alimony, Child Custody & Support • Adoptions ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE • Will & Trust Drafting • Probate & Administration of Estates • Guardianship Proceedings

REAL ESTATE • Commercial & Residential Closings • Title Insurance • Development, Planning & Zoning • Foreclosures • Landlord - Tenant LITIGATION & LAWSUITS • Commercial Litigation & Collections • Creditor Representation in Bankruptcy • Real Estate • Personal Injury • Property Damage • Probate

*The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisments. Before you decide, ask the lawyer to send you free written informationabout their qualifications and experience.

121 North Collins Street • P.O. Drawer TT Plant City, Florida 33564-9040 • 813-752-6133 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 37

Located At: 3305 Hwy. 92 E. • Lakeland, FL 33801

WEEKLY BEEF SALE: TUESDAY

Don’t Miss...

O.L.“Buck” Daniel Lake Cattle Co.

GO TO: WWW.LMAAUCTIONS.COM THEN CLICK ON CATTLEMEN’S

by Robbi Sumner photos courtesy of Terry Daniel Looking for a top-quality performance horse? You might want to talk to O.L. “Buck” Daniel who has been breeding them for over 30 years. Buck and his wife Terry own Lake Cattle Company, located on about 4,000 acres in Okeechobee. The ranch is home to approximately 500 American Quarter horses, as well as several hundred head of commercial beef cattle.

In response to which he prefers, cattle or horses, Buck says “Cows and horses go together. I’ve had them both all my life.”

Buck’s father, the late D.R. Daniel, Sr., bought the family’s first set of Quarter horses in 1957.

As a young man, Buck enjoyed calf roping, reining, cutting and showing halter horses. He recalls taking up to 22 head to a show, and on six different occasions owned every horse selected for the Grand Champion halter class, so he is well versed in the qualities necessary to make a champion across several disciplines.

“I’m working to get the best traits of several bloodlines. We focus on overall temperament – watching cows, no bucking – and they have to have good bone structure. That’s important for any performance horse,” Buck states when asked if he is partial to any particular bloodline.

During the Spring foaling season, babies are rounded up and brought in every morning from the pasture and stalled along with their dams. This provides opportunity for the foals to be introduced to human contact by haltering and encouraging a calm, gentle demeanor. Terry names them and handles the registration paperwork. As yearlings, Daniel horses are branded with a simple “D” on the rear right rump, beside the tail. Each horse is also numbered for easy identification in the pasture. Brought back as two-year olds, trainer Jason Hanchey starts the horses, providing a solid training foundation and exposure to cattle in working

38 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

WATCH OUR TUESDAY SALE LIVE ONLINE

START TIME: 12:00 p.m. (NOON)

situations. Jason’s wife Kristen also puts a barrel pattern on some of the horses, further rounding out their training. Those who demonstrate the greatest potential and perform well at Florida competitions are sent to a trainer in Oklahoma, where AQHA sanctioned shows are more common, thus providing additional opportunities for the horses to become seasoned and earn points.

Jason’s brother Shane Hanchey finished third in the 2010 PRCA tie-down roping standings, with a large portion of his winnings coming aboard Smokin Reata, a Daniel-bred gelding. The pair also won the esteemed Houston Rodeo in March of this year, pocketing an approximately $54,000 purse.

Since 2006, Buck has owned one of the top-three horses at the AQHA World Championship Show. Some of his notables include Cowboys Playgirl 526, Mega Bucks Boon, Peppers Paniola and Hot Check Dually, each of whom won championship or reserve championship honors in tie-down roping.

Lake Cattle Company has hosted former World Champion calf roper Joe Beaver and his calf roping clinic the past four Decembers.

Two large arenas, one outdoor and one covered, coupled with the mild South Florida climate have made this a favored winter destination for many rodeo competitors.

Buck also owns a 200-acre ranch in Lufkin, Texas. That facility has a 180-stall barn, two indoor arenas, 126 RV hookups and sometimes hosts cutting events and high school rodeos. Buck held a production sale in Lufkin last fall and 130 head of horses were sold to buyers from across the country, many who are already calling with interest in purchasing more.

Given the demand, another sale is being planned for this fall.

To learn more about Buck and his line of championship horses visit www.buckdaniel.com or stop by the Okeechobee ranch sometime.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

For Competitive Prices, Let Cattlemen’s Live Auction Market Handle Your Livestock Merchandising Dave or Mike Tomkow • Office: 863.665.5088 Mike Cell: 863.559.5091 • Home: 352.523.2081 • Dave Cell: 863.559.3266 • Home: 863.686.4486

Nutritional Therapy for Better Plant Health!

QuickShot MAX from Helena will put your crops on the road to improved agronomic health.

QuickShot MAX is a high-quality blend of micronutrients, alpha-keto acids, alkanoates and plant elicitors. It is designed to improve short- and long-term crop health. The plant elicitors promote Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR) to help your crops deal better with stresses.

Its 100% water-soluble formulation pours easily and completely. Plus, it has a low pH that will not cause pesticide degradation problems from alkaline hydrolysis.

The end result: QuickShot MAX gives you an easy-to-use, trouble-free product that improves short- and long-term crop health.

Call Helena and learn how QuickShot MAX can improve your crop’s productivity.

• Improves plant health & strengthens immune response against stresses • Low pH formulation offsets alkaline hydrolysis • Eliminates water quality issues due to carbonates • Contains Asset Formulation Technology* (AFT) for improved availability of nutrients

®

• 100% water-soluble, sludge-free formulation results in easy pouring, mixing & application *Asset Formulation Technology (AFT) improves the solubility of plant nutrients and can increase their absorption by plant tissue. AFT also improves mixing and compatibility with other fertilizers and pesticides and sequesters micronutrients to prevent them from being "tied up" by hard water. .

Always read and follow label directions. QuickShot is a trademark & AFT, Asset & People...Products...Knowledge... are registered trademarks of Helena Holding Company. © 2011 Helena Holding Company.

Helena Chemical Company • 2405 North 71st Street • Tampa, FL 33619 • 813-626-5121 • www.helenachemical.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 39

The Water Gun

by Ron Lambert I am sitting at my desk on a very warm June day preparing to put some words to paper for my July article. Last month I put together a few thoughts about my Uncle Herbert and his machine shop. Here in Hardee County many people mention that they remember coming by his shop with their dad to have something repaired. I was very pleased with the photos and article detailing his inventive and productive career.

In the decades spanning 1900-1940’s very few, if any, growers had a means to irrigate their citrus groves. Even though everyone knew that water was crucial to development of a healthy tree and profitable crop of fruit, there was not a lot that could be done.

Most everyone just looked to the sky and prayed for rain.

In the 1940’s a company in Winter Haven named Race and Race began manufacturing aluminum pipe that was easily moved from place to place. They made several diameters up to eight inch dry line as well as perforated to spray out water. This was an effective means to irrigate citrus in dry times. The main drawback was that it was labor intensive as well as time consuming.

In the late 1960’s Herbert Lynn designed and began to manufacture a self propelled travelling gun to irrigate citrus and crops such as watermelon acreage. This machine consisted of two parts–one was the hose reel used to store the hose when not in use and carry it out to put in service, the other unit was the large sprinkler and winch that moved the unit down the rows. It was powered by a small sprinkler which turned a gear box attached to a winch spool. As the sprinkler turned a cable stretched out and anchored as much as half mile away began to be reeled in at a governed speed. The larger sprinkler was spraying out water all the time over a circle as large as 400 feet in diameter. He designed the systems to work at a pressure of 75 psi or greater.

40 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

Depending on the amount of available water and other factors he designed a unit to work in a specific grove. The output orifice of the large sprinkler or gun ranged from 1¼ inchup to 2 inches in diameter. This enabled a unit to work with various types of pumps. In addition, the winch was controlled by changing the tip orifice in which a larger orifice would make it spin faster.

In the illustration shown in these two photographs, one of these guns is shown in operation watering a pasture of winter rye.

This machine is almost forty years old and is still in use every year.

Over a time span of fifteen years he built a hundred of these guns and sold them throughout the citrus growing region. Once again these machines were built here in Hardee County and were a very practical machine that was simple to maintain. All the bearings, pulleys, and wearable parts were standard over the counter parts that could be bought almost anywhere.

As I was writing this article the man who owns and operates the machine in the pictures happened to stop by my office. We talked at length about the water gun and other topics relating to agriculture in general. He is another person who recalls coming to the Lynn Machine Shop as a young boy and marveling at the activity going on.

This water gun is a tool which served a useful purpose for a number of years, but has been replaced by low volume under tree microjet systems.

Last month I stated that we must be aware of advances in our technology and adapt or be swept aside. Even so, past events are interesting to many of us and help us to be aware of our roots and the trials and sacrifices of our ancestors. I hope each of you enjoy this month’s article. Looking forward to next month.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

District 6 Update

From the Desk of Andy Neuhofer The Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association recently held a series of meetings to update employers regarding employment and immigration compliance. The subjects that were reviewed included immigration laws on the federal and state levels, responsibilities of employers and managers, record keeping, E-verify, “No-Match” letters from the Social Security Administration (SSA), inspections, wage and hour issues and what to expect in the coming year.

Summarizing, Arizona’s law was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court opening the door for other states to do something similar. Attempts were made during the 2011 legislative session here at home to tighten the rules on employers. Also, Governor Scott has issued an executive order requiring some state agencies use the E-verify system. There is legislation in Congress dealing with E-verify and border security. For those who may not know, the E-verify system is an electronic means to determine the legality of potential employees. It does have some flaws.

The internet based system is offered free by the Department of Homeland Security. Many unauthorized workers are not caught and it will not catch stolen

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

identities. However, it will catch fraudulent documents.

Is it better than nothing? David Stefany, representing the law firm of Allen Norton & Blue, P.A. stated the accuracy of the E-verify system is just over 50 percent.

Employers and managers should refresh their memory of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 in order to ensure compliance with the law. There are terms and definitions which are important as well as mandated by record keeping rules. Compliance is the ultimate responsibility of the employer (the farmer).

Worksite investigations have dramatically increased since 2008.

Employers and their Human Resources staff need to be aware the Social Security Administration is sending “No-Match” letters when the information on wage statements provided by the employer does not match the information maintained by the SSA. The documents will explain the process in order to solve the problem.

Wage and hour laws depend upon accurate recordkeeping. It is in everyone’s best interest to keep accurate records and to be sure your company is in compliance with the laws pertaining to compensation.

Traveling and breaks are commonly contested areas.

What is next? Immigration will be a hotly debated issue this coming year. Farm Bureau will be working with elected officials and agricultural organizations to ensure the future of Florida agriculture.

Andy Neuhofer Field Representative District 6 Andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org 352.318.2506 www.floridafarmbureau.org

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 41

OsFaFd % 0 1 th thi

South Florida Water Management District June Agricultural Highlights Report

F

EstiREE mat e

wi

Charles M. Shinn III, Assistant Director, Government & Community Affairs, Florida Farm Bureau

Governor Rick Scott appointed Juan Portuondo of Key Biscayne on Wednesday afternoon replacing Eric Buermann whose appointment expired at the end of February. Mr. Portuondo fills one of two seats on the board that are allotted to Miami/Dade County. The other seat is currently held by Sandy Batchelor whose term expires next February.

Budget Constraints Bring District Back to Core Mission With the development of the FY2012 budget, executive staff and the governing board are coming to grips with the reality of a much smaller budget in comparison to recent years. Budgeted tax revenues rose to a peak of $553 Million in FY 2007 during the height of the real estate boom. Staying above $500 Million for three years (FY07 – FY 09), the District was viewed as South Florida’s cash cow and requests for studies and projects flooded the offices.

The downturn in real estate started taking its toll in FY10 with tax receipts totaling $459 Million. The decline further intensified in FY11 bringing tax revenues down to $399 Million.

With the stagnant market and legislative action (Senate Bill 2142), project revenues for FY12 are expected to be just under $270 Million.

To develop the budget for FY12, staff is recommending that $361 Million of available cash (Ad Valorem balances) be used to supplement the revenue stream for the year. The cash along with other sources are being used to create an available revenue budget of $823 Million.

It doesn’t take too much calculator work to figure out that vast changes have to be made to reduce expenditures for future years. Melissa Meeker, Executive Director, laid out a detailed plan that will provide reductions while still achieving the core mission of the district: • Provide flood control and hurricane response, including maintenance of sufficient contingency reserves • Continue progress of Everglades environmental restoration and water quality projects (thus complying with Federal Judge orders) • Meet on-going water supply and water resource development needs • Streamline existing regulatory programs • Meet on-going debt service payments Guiding principles were provided to the governing board explaining the planning efforts to achieve the reduction in Ad Valorem revenues. These included reducing or eliminating nonmandated activities, reducing duplication with other agencies (example given was water monitoring), and reducing administrative support functions among others.

What was not clear is how the administration will handle budgets beyond FY12 when the present ‘available’ Ad Valorem

42 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

Drought Remains Persistent With No End in Sight

GROWING

Elegantly beat the heat!

Stop the glare!

See the view!

YOUR FARM

Designer Solar Shades for the Home, Lanai, Office or Retail Store....

RELATIONSHIPS

Florida remains a state of extremes with the South Florida drought increasing while other areas of the state receive ample rainfall. The latest drought monitor graphic from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center provides a great visual.

The dark brown region that covers the majority of Palm Beach and Broward Counties represents exceptional drought conditions.

Rainfall across South Florida was 57 percent of average for May, which continued the streak of below normal months for rainfall in the region.

The normal dry season is from November – May with November and May historically being transitional months. In the past, the summer rainy season started by June 4 with regular afternoon showers and thunderstorms resulting from increased atmospheric humidity and daytime heating. June thus far has been warm, dry and breezy exasperating evapotranspiration rates while placing added stress on crops and pastures.

It was hoped that a recent tropical disturbance south of Cuba will come north to provide some relief but the latest forecast has the system going northeast and bypassing Florida.

®

Monthly Reports Available on Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s Website This report is also available on Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s website (www.floridafarmbureau.org). Click on ‘Issues and Public Policy’ on the left side of the home page, then click on the ‘Water and Natural Resources’ subheading.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Blinds ASAP of Sebring Your Source for Quality Window Treatments

24 HOUR DRIVE-UP ATM PLANT CITY: 1804 JAMES L. REDMAN PKWY | 813.659.1234 BRANDON: 802 WEST LUMSDEN ROAD | 813.655.1234 OFFICES IN WINTER HAVEN, LAKELAND AND TAMPA

Shutters • Arches • Verticals • Wood & Faux Wood Blinds Roman Shades •Roller Shades • Solar Shades • and more...

(863) 314-9790

Village Fountain Plaza | 237 US Hwy. 27, N Sebring, FL 33870 Hours: M - F 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sat. by Appt.

ek! e W a s y a Open 7 Days A Week D Open 7 See Come ew N r Ou dels o 2011 M

Tighter Water Restrictions on Agriculture Northwest of Lake Okeechobee Water restrictions have been increased from Phase I (15% cutback) to Phase III (45% cutback) northwest of Lake Okeechobee in the Southern Indian Prairie Basin. This area was held at Phase I when the rest of agriculture around Lake Okeechobee went to Phase III because they were able to receive water through canals from Lake Istokpoga.

Restrictions were also increased on municipal users in West Palm Beach due to the inability to convey water to their pumping facilities from Lake Okeechobee.

YOUR BANK

As highly experienced community bankers, we value the real relationships we form with our customers. Serving our communities for over 13 years allows for a sense of familiarity and dependability. We understand there are seeds to be planted and at Platinum Bank we are confident we can help you bring in the harvest.

42,900 3

$

BR/2BA Doublew ide

PRICE INCLUDES 0 $ 4FREE 2,930Day/2 Night Cruise FREE Skirting 2Ba

3Bd/

PRICE PRI CE INC CLUD LUD LU DE ES S FRE REE 3 Day/ RE y/2 2 Nigh ght Crui ruisse FRE RE EE Deliv Deliv D iv very erry ry FREE FRE REE A/ A/C C FREE Stove FREE Steps FRE EE Skirting FREE Refrigerator FREE Stove FREE Set-Up FREE Refrigerator FREE Credit Check

lewid FREE Doub Delivery FREE A/C COME SEE OURof NEW 2011 FREE 2 Sets Steps MODELS! Valid Through 07/31/2011 Valid Through January 31, 2011

See page 55 for answer.

Governor Scott Fills Remaining Seat on South Florida Board

cash balances are near depletion.

It is certainly a new day with a new Governing Board and a new Executive Director.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

e

800-557-7360 1046 WEST HIGHWAY 92 • AUBURNDALE Land, improvements, thermal windows, carport & landscaping not inlcuded in price.

www.PrestigeHomeCenterFL.com • Se Habla Español July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 43

Citrus Report:

CHMA Update

by Justin Smith

In April we looked at CHMAs, which is the idea of area- wide psyllid management sprays. The psyllid is the primary vector for the devastating HLB, also known as greening, bacteria. The idea of coordinated sprays has been gaining in popularity as a voluntary, grower-driven program. They were introduced by IFAS and in conjunction with the Florida Department of Ag and Consumer Services (FDACS) with the former hosting a website for each officially established CHMA. Recently a small group headed by Dr. Steve Futch, a multi county extension agent, organized a CHMA encompassing all of Hardee County. The entire county was broken into four quadrants representing northwest, northeast, southwest and southeast.

Although this made four individual CHMAs the goal was to cover the entire county in a short amount of time. Each area was assigned two volunteer coordinators to facilitate recording of grower participation and to support any growers seeking assistance in meeting the targeted time window.

The first area wide target was for the month the Asian citrus psyllid of June using a suggested pesticide of dimethoate or other Organophosphate products.

During the month several thousand acres of citrus were covered by multiple application methods. The methods primarily used were low volume applications or incorporated into summer oil sprays. Having only been organized for approximately eight weeks, the first targeted spray seemed to be highly successful and met with great support from the local industry.

The Department of Agriculture began conducting psyllid counts in representative locations across Hardee County before this CHMA was established. So far there is a direct correlation between areas which are being managed and those which are not. The idea behind implementing not only a single 44 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

CHMA but the entire county is to keep communication open between all areas. The hopes are to eventually have the majority of all growers coordinated on their spray programs. FDACS will continue to monitor population sizes so the coordination effort can be correlated for the most accurate management tactics.

The next targeted spray has not been officially set for Hardee County, however, the late summer or early fall is the current schedule. The intention is for a seasonal plan to be in place by the first of 2012. This will allow for participants to budget and plan accordingly. In order to participate there is no requirement to take part in every planned spray. Simply inform your local coordinator if you do participate so there is a record. These records are for the purpose of evaluating the success of each area and spray schedule. There are no mandatory requirements or monitoring of your operation’s usage.

The entire process is strictly voluntary and is meant for information and communication purposes only. The coordinators are there as a resource to the grower for information and assistance in achieving the timeframe goal.

This endeavor will only have the success of what is put into it by the growers. All citrus grove owners and managers are encouraged to take part. Contact your local coordinator to get information or to sign up for updates. There is an email list you can be added to for updates as well, through your coordinator. All contact information can be found on the UF/IFAS website under the resources CHMA section. Other counties and areas are also found there. If your area is not listed and you are interested in starting a CHMA contact your extension agent. www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Water Conservation = Energy $aving$ The Smart Choice Water Conservation Frost Protection treetpee.com 863-990-2095 Johnny Georges The Grand Champion Tree Protector!

Pasco County Distributor Floyd’s Nursery 10548 Singletary Rd. Dade City, FL 33525 (352) 521-3571 www.FloydCitrus.com

Polk County Distributor Frostproof Growers Supply 512 N Scenic Highway Frostproof, FL 33843 (863) 635-3620 www.Frostproof.com

California Distributor Kern County California Impact Water Solutions Bill Jones (661) 747-8976 Jerry Todd (661) 213-6288

Making Florida’s future

that much sweeter Florida citrus growers — like so many American farmers — rely on crop nutrients to produce more abundant crops. This means lower food costs for us and more land that can be preserved for the environment. It is our business and our honor to provide farmers across America — and right here in Florida — with the crop nutrients they need to help feed the world.

A better Florida and a better world

®

www.mosaicfla.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 45

Cash ts n i D scouna, FL O F.O.B.

FLORIDA FENCE POST Co., Inc. 5251 S.R. 64 West • PO Box 645 • Ona, FL 33865

863-735-1361 • 800-580-1019 “The Posts Preferred by Florida Cattlemen”

Come visit us at our new satellite store.

Lake Placid Feed and Western Wear 417 US 27 South Lake Placid, FL 33852 Phone: (863) 465-4731

We Treat Our Posts Right

Grilled Onion Cheeseburgers Ingredients

1 pound 1 tablespoon 1-1/2 teaspoons 1 large 1 tablespoon

4 3 ounces

ground beef chopped fresh thyme minced garlic h white or yellow onion, cut into 1/2-inc thick slices vegetable or olive oil Salt and pepper s or white or whole wheat hamburger bun Kaiser rolls, split as crumbled or shredded cheese (such , blue feta ese, che smoked mozzarella, goat r, dda che as h cheese); sliced cheese (suc k wor also will da) swiss, provolone and gou well.

1. Combine ground beef, thyme and garlic in medium bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Lig htly shape into four 1/2-inch thick patties. Brush bot h sides of onion slices with oil.

2. Place patties in center of gril l over medium, ash-covered coals, arrange onion slices around patties. Grill, covered, 8 to 10 (over medium heat on pre heated gas grill, 7 to 9 minutes) until instant-read the rmometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160°F, turning occasionally. Grill onions 15 to 20 minutes or unt il tender, turning occasionally and brushing with oil. (Grillin g times for onions remain the sam e on gas grill.) Season burgers wit h salt and pepper, as desired.

3. Place 1 burger on bottom of each bun, top evenly with cheese and grilled onions. Close sandwiches.

Makes 4 servings.

Summer Conference 2011-The American National Cattlewomen (ANCW) and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association will be holding its annual summer conference at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee July 31-August 4. There will be lots of great seminars and education workshops about the beef industry. Plus, it is a great opportunity for those of us who live here, a chance to meet others who support and play an important part in the cattle industry. One of the many highlights of the conference is an opportunity to take a real “Florida Ag tour” of Deseret Ranch and Kempfer Cattle Company. The cost of the tour is $50 per person, which includes lunch. The deadline for hotel reservations is July 8. Please call The Gaylord Palms Resort for room reservations at (407) 586-2000 and mention the Cattle Industry Summer Conference. For more information and registration regarding the upcoming conference go to www.ancw.org.

46 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Rough Cut Lumber MC Treated .14 Ret. for Heavy Duty Ground Contact

25 Ye ar L Guar imited “Bra antee Your nded for Prote ction ”

CURRENT PRODUCTS: Now offering a new line of Square Stock Timbers Fence Posts * Barn Poles * Brace Posts * Cow Pen Post * Rough Cut Lumber Cattle Pannels * Portable Corrals * Fence Stays * Barbed Wire * Field Fence Farm Gates * Game Fencing * Hay Rings * Assorted Mulch and Soil SERVING CENTRAL FLORIDA SINCE 1946.

GIVE US A CALL FOR ALL YOUR AGRICULTURAL FENCING SUPPLIES! Call 1 (800)580-1019 for more information on TRUCKLOAD PRICING in your area.

Website: flfencepost.com

Hicks Oil Co. Independent Distributors • • • •

Full line of Lubricants Wix Filters Interstate Batteries Meeting all Your Petroleum Needs • Fill-Rite Pumps and Hoses • Tanks, Retail Fuels • 2 Locations Public Welcome

Our Posts Meet The Federal Standards!

CCA.40/AWPA C-16 Ground Contact

Email: sales@flfencepost.com

• Gasoline • Fuels • Lubricants

Avon Park (863) 453-8166 Sebring (863) 385-0495 Toll Free (877) 595-8166 Family Owned And Operated Since

1995

Serving Highlands, Desoto, Hardee & Okeechobee

Sales ● Service ● Installation Duct Cleaning ● Insulation

20 W. Interlake Blvd. Lake Placid, FL

For All Your Air Conditioning Needs

863-699-5455 863-494-9955

24 Hour Emergency Service FINANCING AVAILABLE www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

CAC058675

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 47

FARMLAND FOR SALE 40 acres • 10” well, new turbine, gear head, power unit and mainline • Completely hog fenced • 2006 3/2 fully furnished mobile home • 60’ X 30’ metal building • Small pond

El Pirata Restaurante Mexicano

48 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

• County road frontage on 2 sides

For Fruit Sales & Pricing

• Set up for grove or farm operation

Please Contact:

• 7 mi from Wauchula

Natalie started working at the restaurant in high school and Dora and Manuel have seen her grow up, get married and have two children of her own. Natalie’s sister also works at the restaurant.

Besides their wonderful staff, all four of Dora and Manuel’s children help out at the restaurant. The couple has three boys and one girl and the children can be found doing anything from peeling shrimp to serving to washing dishes. They are a great example of a family that works collectively and enjoys the time they spend together. On her days off, Dora said that she likes to be with family because they are most important to her.

The sounds and scents of sizzling fajitas being delivered to tables through the restaurant is enough to make your mouth water. Taking a look around the packed dining room, those mouth-watering fajitas seemed to be a favorite and of all varieties, beef chicken or shrimp.

At El Pirata, there is a menu item for everyone.

I would recommend the combination plate and try a little of everything. I had a wonderful chicken enchilada smothered with a delicious sauce along with a beef taco, rice and beans! It was all so fresh and authentic; the perfect Mexican feast.

Dora and Manuel always remember their past and where they came from. They proudly display a map of their home in San Diego, Mexico in the restaurant. It is a reminder of where their hard work, the great recipes and dishes, and the unity of the family came from.

The restaurant is open seven days a week so be sure to stop in to enjoy the authentic cuisine. Monday through Thursday they are open from ten o’clock in the morning to nine at night; Friday and Saturday from ten to ten; and Sunday from nine to eight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also call in take out orders and bring the authentic Mexican fiesta home with you.

Still want to add that spice to your life? Then visit El Pirata on Highway 70 East in Arcadia or call Dora and Manuel at 863-993-2203.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

$299,000.00 863-781-1318

Fran Becker V.P. Fruit Procurement

Office: (863) 494-0440 • Mobile: (863) 990-8582

Serving Highlands County and the Peace River Basin area since 1994.

Custom Blended Foliar, Suspension & Solution Fertilizers

Barney Cherry 863-441-1482 Bruce Hutcheson 863-441-2018

See page 55 for answer.

If you are in the Arcadia area and looking for a little spice in your life, then head on over to El Pirata.

This family-owned authentic Mexican restaurant has great food and great history.

In 1974, Dora Barragan made the long trip with her family from San Diego, Mexico all the way to the Orlando area of Florida. Dora, a ten-year-old girl was there to work hard, harvesting oranges with her family.

Starting at a young age, hard work and discipline were instilled in her and it shines through even today.

There in the groves is where she met her husband, Manuel. Hundreds of miles from home, Dora and Manuel’s love blossomed only to discover they were from the same valley, or area of Mexico.

In 1985, bad weather and the devastation of frost to the orange trees brought the family to Arcadia. Then in 1993 another devastation hit, a car accident left Dora unable to work.

The hard-working mentality was still a large part of who Dora was and from that discipline and a push from her brother, El Pirata was born. He suggested that they open a restaurant and that Dora cook all of the family dishes and recipes handed down from generations brought over from Mexico and that is where it began. Two years later, her brother left the business to get married and Dora carried on the delicious authentic cooking that you can still taste today.

It is not only the great food that keeps their patrons coming back, but the friendly and caring service that Dora, Manuel and their staff provides; it is an all around experience. Rodger Drawdy, a regular at the restaurant said, “ From the time you open the door, you are welcomed and the great staff knows exactly what their customers want.” He finished with a smile and said, “I don’t even look at the menu anymore.”

An important part of any business is the staff and Dora and Manuel have been blessed. They have become like family and many have been with them for years. Dora and Manuel told of one of their waitresses that has been working for the family for over ten years.

“It is our mission to produce the highest quality products, market them at competitve prices, provide superior customer service and maximize returns to Florida growers.”

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Accessories Cold Air Intakes Performance Parts Tool Boxes

Air Ride Systems Dog Boxes Programmers Towing/Winches

Alignments Brakes Electrical Exhaust Systems Rv Parts Suspension Tires/ Wheels

Monster Trucks Available

for Birthday Parties & Special Events!!!

(863) 763-8866 | 4375 US Hwy 441 South | Okeechobee, FL 34974 Automobile - RV - Trailer - Service & Repair July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 49

By Sandy Kaster, M.S. Clinical Medicine, B.S. Nutrition Science

Limes

Recipes Courtesy of The Florida Department of Agriculture

Summertime in Florida means a bountiful supply of juicy, delicious limes in their peak season. The two main types of limes are the Key lime and Tahiti (also called Persian) lime. The Key lime is small and round, and becomes yellow in color when ripe. The flesh is yellowish-green with seeds and is more acidic than Tahiti limes.

Tahiti limes are oval-shaped and larger than Key limes. They are dark green in color when mature, and the flesh is usually seedless.

The Tahiti lime is also hardier to the cold than the Key lime. According to statistics, in 2001-2001, Florida produced 13 million pounds of ‘Tahiti’ lime. Consumption of limes increased from one pound per person in 1989 to three pounds per person in 2007.

Potassium Florida limes are a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke and cardiac arrhythmias. One lime, which has only 20 calories, contains more than 35 percent of the Daily Value for potassium, which is needed for proper electrolyte and fluid balance. Potassium plays an important role in muscle contraction and nerve transmission, and people with low levels may experience muscle cramping. This important mineral may also help prevent or slow down bone loss from high-sodium diets.

Watermelon Granita-Filled Lime Cups

Nutritional Profile

How to Select and Store

Preparation

Look for limes that have smooth, glossy skins and are deep green (Tahiti lime) or yellow (Key lime) in color. Choose limes that feel firm to the touch and free of broken or soft spots. They can be stored at room temperature for up to one week or in the refrigerator for up to six weeks, although they begin to lose flavor with time.

Lime juice freezes well, squeeze and freeze in ice cube trays. When frozen, pop out of ice cube trays and store in an airtight plastic bag.

Cubes of frozen lime juice can be added to drinks to boost flavor and nutrition.

Cut limes in half lengthwise; cut around pulp of each half with a sharp knife, leaving peel intact. Scoop out pulp, using spoon to loosen pulp from peel, and reserve 2 tablespoons of lime juice for Granita. Set lime cups aside. Stir together sugar and water in small saucepan; heat to boiling. Cool slightly. Place watermelon in container of food processor; pulse to puree watermelon. Place colander over bowl and pour puree into colander to strain out the seeds; forcing watermelon through with back of spoon, if needed. Stir reserved lime juice and cooled sugar mixture into pureed watermelon. Pour into 13x9x2-inch pan; freeze until firm, about 4 hours. To serve, scrape frozen watermelon mixture with spoon to make Granita. Stir in currants for “seeds.” Mound Granita in lime cups; serve on bed of crushed ice.

Florida limes are full of health-promoting nutrients. They contain vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as potassium and phosphorus. In addition to these nutrients, limes contain a wealth of other disease-fighting compounds, such as phytonutrients and antioxidants. These potent chemicals fight cancer, lower cholesterol, and control blood sugar levels.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one medium lime (67 g) contains 20 calories, 7 g carbohydrate, 2 g of dietary fiber, and has no fat or sodium. It also provides 35 percent of the Daily Recommended Value (%DV) for vitamin C, 1 percent for vitamin A, 2 percent for potassium, 2percent for calcium, 2 percent for iron, and other nutrients including B vitamins and magnesium.

Antioxidants in Limes

Limes, as well as lemons, contain unique disease-busting compounds called flavonoids, a type of phytonutrient. Possessing both antioxidant and anti-cancer properties, some of these flavonoids have been shown to stop cell division in cancer, as well as fight infection.

Florida limes, along with other citrus fruits, are an excellent source of the antioxidant vitamin C. This vitamin is one of the main antioxidants found in food and the primary water-soluble antioxidant in the body. The vitamin C in limes neutralizes harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals can damage the healthy cells of the body, causing inflammation and contributing to conditions such as arthritis and heart disease. When free radicals damage the cells in the blood vessel, cholesterol accumulates on the artery walls, leading to atherosclerosis.

Vitamin C is perhaps best known for its supportive role in a strong immune system. Foods high in vitamin C, including limes, may help protect against colds or shorten the duration of an existing cold. Research has shown that consumption of vegetables and fruits high in vitamin C is associated with a reduced risk of death from heart disease, stroke and cancer.

Other research studies have found that people who consume a high intake of vitamin C were more than three times less likely to develop arthritis than those who consumed the lowest amounts.

50 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

Enjoy Limes Florida limes can be used as a garnish for drinks, desserts, and entrees. Enjoy limes fresh or frozen. Fresh limes frequently garnish desserts, meats, and drinks. Lime juice is often used in marinades, desserts, and drinks.

Other ways to enjoy limes: • Squeeze the juice over fresh raw fish for ceviche • Toss apples and bananas in lime juice mixed with water to preserve the color of the fruits • Use lime juice to make limeade, sorbet, or slushies.

• Add lime juice to hot or iced tea • Place thinly sliced limes underneath fish before baking or steaming.

• Combine lime juice with olive oil and spices for a dressing.

• Squeeze some lime juice onto an avocado quarter and eat as is.

• Flavor your favorite barbecue sauce with lime juice.

• Combine with cilantro and garlic for a marinade • Use lime zest or juice in desserts such as cake, cheesecake, or cookies.

Enjoy juicy, refreshing Florida limes in their peak season today!

Selected References http://www.whfoods.com http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://www.ipmcenters.org

Ingredients 12 1 cup 2 cups 4 cups 1/2 cup

limes, reserve 2 tablespoons juice sugar water watermelon, cubed currants or raisins crushed ice, optional

Yield 12 servings

Baked Florida Grouper with Lime Cilantro Butter Ingredients 4 - 6-ounce ½ cup 3 tablespoons 1/4 cup 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon 1 pinch 2 tablespoons

grouper fillets unsalted butter fresh cilantro, chopped lime juice salt freshly ground pepper freshly grated nutmeg salt freshly ground pepper grated lime or lemon zest

Preparation Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Put the fillets in a greased baking dish. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add next 7 ingredients. Stir to blend and pour lime butter over fillets. Sprinkle grated rinds evenly over the top. Bake for 15 minutes until cooked through and meat flakes easily with a fork.

Yield 4 servings

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 51

Shiloh Anuez

by Morgan Taylor Norris

In the brief time I talked with Shiloh Anuez, I was quite impressed. This eleventh grade girl from Okeechobee is a shining example of the future of Florida Agriculture! When asked what organizations and activities she is involved with, Shiloh just grinned and I knew I better get my pen ready. She has been an active member of the 4-H in Okeechobee for nine years, serving as District X Secretary, County Council Secretary and Udder Bunch Dairy Club Secretary, among many other 4-H clubs in her past years. Shiloh has competed in County, District and State events, Dairy Judging as well as showing Swine, Market Steers, and Dairy Cattle. She has also been an active member in FFA for six years.

Out of all her activities Shiloh says her favorite is Dairy Judging, which she has been competing in since she was 13. She has traveled the state to various judging competitions including the South Florida Fair, the Florida State Fair and the State 4-H Dairy show in Kissimmee. Shiloh has had the opportunity to travel out of state as well.

This past year she traveled to Louisville, Kentucky to compete in the North American International Livestock Expo for Dairy Judging. Besides Dairy Judging, Shiloh has four Ayrshire cows of her own that

she takes to shows around the state. Top honors she has received include: first place senior in the South Florida Fair Grooming contest, first place senior in the Dairy Judging contest at the South Florida Fair and numerous Junior Champion and Grand Champion Ayrshire. She enjoys educating the public on the Dairy industry, commenting that they have some pretty unusual questions at the fairs!

During her time in FFA she has been very successful, competing in Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Parliamentary Procedure, Dairy Judging, Livestock Judging and Meat Judging. She enjoys serving others and helping them accomplish their goals and working as a team.

Shiloh has held many officer positions in the FFA, and has competed at sub-district, district and state events. This year her Dairy Judging team consisting of herself, Kelsi Brown and Jessica Humphrey placed fourth in the state and were recognized at the 83rd Florida FFA State Convention. Shiloh placed third overall in the state as an individual.

The Meat Judging team consisting of herself, Jessica Humphrey and Cody Casperson placed seventh in the state with team member Jessica Humphrey winning first place individual in the state.

For the past two years, Shiloh has competed in Breakaway Roping in the Florida High School Rodeo Association. She says she start-

52 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

ed because of her love for horses and has enjoyed rodeo. Shiloh shares that love with other 4-Hers by serving as a counselor at Okeechobee County’s 4-H horse camp. She enjoys helping and teaching children, aging from eight years old to thirteen, the importance of taking care of their horse, how to work with and to be in tune with them. During the summer months Shiloh keeps busy by volunteering her time as a teen counselor at several 4-H camps besides horse camp. She also volunteers at the H2O and History camps. Last summer Shiloh logged close to 300 community service hours!

In her spare time Shiloh enjoys writing poetry. This hobby has proven to be quite a talent as she has won the 4-H Share the Fun category at the county and district events. She has now earned a spot to attend and compete at the State 4-H Congress in Gainesville this summer reading her poems. Shiloh says she writes about all things but mainly enjoys writing poetry about nature and animals.

Shiloh has many people who have helped influence her life including her mom and dad. They are always there for her during shows and competitions and needless to say, everyday life. Ms. Gladys Freeman, whom she refers to as Grandma Freeman, has been an inspiration to Shiloh. Shiloh says she has an infinite knowledge when it comes to agriculture, and enjoys very much hearing her stories on life experiences. Mrs. Debbie Clements, her 4-H agent, has always encouraged her to “make the best better.” She also says her FFA advisors; Mr. Mills, Mr. McWaters, Mr. Gerbitz and Mr. Dryden have taught her the leadership skills that are key to success. Without these people in her life Shiloh says she would not be where she is today. Shiloh does give note also that if not for 4-H and FFA she would not have experienced the many wonderful opportunities she has been given through these organizations.

Shiloh’s plans for the future are to continue learning and sharing Florida agriculture with everyone she comes in contact with hoping that they realize that without agriculture, the world would go hungry and unclothed. She would love to be an FFA state officer, then attend the University of Florida to become an agriculture teacher and help to mold the youth into the agriculturalists of tomorrow!

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Raychel Rabon

by Morgan Taylor Norris

With a world champion roper as a father, Raychel Rabon was destined to be involved within the agricultural community, but Raychel has made her own name through the 4-H and FFA in Okeechobee.

She has been a member of the FFA for five years and has participated in both the Dairy Judging and Parliamentary Procedure Career Development Events.

Raychel has been an active member of the Okeechobee 4-H club for nine years now. As Udder Bunch Dairy Club President, Treasurer of the District Council, and member of the County Council, Raychel is sure to keep herself busy, but it is the Dairy Quiz Bowl that has her heart.

The quiz bowl consists of all questions dairy including management, health, genetics, individual breeds and basic dairy trivia. She started competing in Dairy Quiz Bowl when she was 13 and said it took her about two to three years to learn all the information. Those years of dedication and learning have paid off as Raychel now travels the country participating in quiz bowl competitions. Her travels have taken her to Virginia, Maryland, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and California.

She participates in the state and national 4-H competitions, and also each breed association’s annual quiz bowl such as the Holstein Convention Dairy Quiz Bowl.

Raychel is quite modest but she finally boasted a little and, come to find out, she is known to usually place in the top five at each quiz bowl competition! She said that their team from Okeechobee works hard and are always the team to beat at the Florida State Quiz Bowl Competition, consistently going home with the first place trophy. For that competition, Raychel says they take the four best competitors out of the county to represent Okeechobee at state.

Her knowledge of dairy cows started before any quiz bowl competition when Raychel started showing her first Jersey cow nine years ago. She still shows that original cow, but has also built her herd to a total of 13 Jersey cows.

Showmanship is where Raychel excels with her cows. She is usually found in the top three for showmanship and has also received multiple awards for Grand, Reserve Grand and Junior Grand Champion heifers. She is most proud of her first place winning at the Florida State Fair’s Senior Division Championwww.InTheFieldMagazine.com

ship Class for Showmanship. Also at the Florida State Fair, she was also awarded Reserve Grand Champion heifer. Raychel has many trophies and buckles to show off her accomplishments.

During the summers, Raychel is a camp counselor for the Okeechobee 4-H youth camps. She has been a counselor at both the H20 and history camps but says her favorite is the “Blast to the Past” Adventures in History Day Camp. It is a week–long camp and introduces the 4-Hers to Florida’s extensive history. They travel around the state to locations like the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville and Walt Disney World in Orlando.

Raychel mentioned that her parents’ love and dedication inspire her and they are helpful through all aspects of her life.

Her mom and dad are there to cheer her on at every show and even wake up to assist her with her 5 o’clock morning milkings.

Raychel also said that her 4-H club members all work together to help each other and that they are an encouragement to one another.

Through the 4-H, Raychel has participated in State Congress demonstrations and being in Tallahassee has sparked her interest in government and politics. After graduation she wants to attend the University of Florida and wants to find a career that relates to and combines her interests in both the agricultural industry and government. She has enjoyed traveling and would be interested in a position that would allow her to travel the world doing what she loves.

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 53

Certified Public Accountants

Teresa Balser Appointed Dean of UF’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences

Wicks, Brown, Williams & Co. Serving Central Florida for Over 40 Years

Sebring

C. Mark Cox, CPA, Partner John W. Davis, CPA, Partner Charles P. Cox, CPA

Lake Placid

W. Bruce Stratton, CPA, Partner

Okeechobee

Cheryl M. Williams, CPA, Partner Corey A. DeHays, CPA

140 South Commerce Avenue Sebring, Florida 33870

(863) 382-1157

by Robert H. Wells

54 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

wbwtaxmgr@wbwcpa.com

Okeechobee, Fl.

863.763.2529

www.quailcreekplantation.com

DeSoto Machine Shop Triangle Spreader Manufacturing Co. www.desotomachine.com

Trivia Question on page 49

students and 760 faculty members on the UF main campus in Gainesville as well as 13 research and education centers throughout the state.

The college includes 24 undergraduate majors, more than 50 areas of specialization and 23 graduate majors.

Since 2008, Balser has directed the UW-Madison Institute for Cross-college Biology Education, a campus wide institute focused on undergraduate education and public outreach. She has been a faculty member in UW-Madison’s department of soil science since 2001.

Her other recent positions at UW-Madison include faculty associate with the Office of Human Resource Development and faculty affiliate with several academic programs. She is currently a leadership development coordinator with the American Society of Agronomy.

In 2010, Balser was named U.S. Professor of the Year by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in the Outstanding Doctoral and Research Universities Professor category. She is also the recipient of the National Excellence in College and University Teaching Award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences in 2009.

She was awarded a doctorate in soil microbiology from the University of California at Berkeley in 2000 and bachelor’s degrees in biology and earth sciences from Dartmouth College in 1992.

Balser is the first woman appointed to lead the UF college.

She succeeds Mark Rieger, CALS interim dean since September 2010.

Trivia Question on page 43

A University of WisconsinMadison administrator has been selected as dean of the University of Florida’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF officials announced.

Teresa Balser, director of the UW-Madison Institute for Biology Education, was named to lead the college by Jack Payne, UF senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources. She begins July 1.

Balser will also be a professor with the soil and water science department.

“Dr. Balser has great vision for the revitalization of the land grant ideals,” Payne said. “She also brings a great passion for teaching and a wonderful enthusiasm for positioning higher education to be leaders in the coming age by leveraging our capacity for creativity and growing diversity.”

Balser said she looks forward to the opportunities and challenges the position provides, and plans to place special emphasis on critical issues such as food and energy security.

“I’m thrilled and honored to be selected,” Balser said.

“CALS has so many strengths to build upon. I am excited about the possibilities for the future and I look forward to joining the Gator Nation and working with all of our students, staff and faculty.”

Balser said as the new CALS dean, she will continue the exceptional and personalized learning experience the college offers as well as expand upon the opportunities for students to discover the ways agricultural and life sciences are critical to improving the quality of life for everyone.

Balser will oversee all aspects of the college’s undergraduate and graduate education programs, which involve about 5,100

Sporting Clays • Hunting • Lodging & Special Events

MOWER

(800) 494-0335 (863) 494-0703

2692 N.E. Nat Ave. Arcadia, FL 34266

SUBSCRIBER’S AGREEMENT Which magazine are you ordering? circle one.

The Heartland Hillsborough County Polk County Two Issue Package 12 months/12 issues 12 months/ 12 issues 12 months/ 12 issues 12 months/ 12 issues ea. $25.00 $25.00 $25.00 $45.00 (circle 2) First issue to begin in: Jan. Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Company: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Shipping Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________ Billing Address (if different than above): _____________________________________________________________________ Payment Information circle one: check enclosed credit card Credit Card Type: MasterCard VISA Credit Card Number:_______________expiration date:________security code:______________________________________ Mail to us at: Heartland In The Field Magazine, P.O. Box 3183, Plant City, FL 33563

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 55

AgCalendar What’s going on InTheField?

• July 4—Arcadia Rodeo, Arcadia, see ad on page 23

• July 29-30—DeSoto County Cattlemen’s 4-H Ranch Rodeo, Arcadia

• July 8-10—Buck Expo, Lakeland Civic Center, Lakeland, FL

• July 30—Calusa Dog Show, Turner Ag Center, Arcadia

• July 15—Friday Night Live, Wauchula

• August 1-4—National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Summer Conference, Orlando

• July 15-17—State Young Farmer & Rancher Leadership Conference, Indialantic, FL

• August 6—NBHA Barrel Race, Turner Ag Center, Arcadia

• July 22-23—Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo and Cattle Drive, Okeechobee Dave Ralph and Earnestly Special

2011 Florida State NBHA Championship was “Special”

by Robbi Sumner

Dave Ralph and his awesome horse, Ernestly Special, made history at the National Barrel Horse Association Florida State Championships, held June 15th – 19th at the Osceola Heritage Park Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee.

With over $136,000 in prize money, trophy saddles, breast collars, Charmayne James saddle pads, belt buckles and NBHA World Show Wildcards on the line, competitors from across the state showed up hoping to take home bragging rights and a piece of the purse.

“We’re getting bigger and better every year,” stated NBHA Florida State Director Linda Jones. With 792 entries in the Open division, 256 entries in Youth division, and 105 in the Senior division, competition was tough.

Most competitors arrived and settled in on Wednesday, taking advantage of arena time to exhibition and get their horses familiar with the facility. Dozens of vendors, offering the latest from equine health and nutrition to homemade ice cream, home furnishings, tack and clothing, ensured that riders and their horses had everything they could need or want over the weekend.

Barrel racing action kicked off at 8:00am Thursday, running the first 650 horse and rider combinations of the Open Division Round 1.

Rylee Butler and Tom’s Lucky Deuce

56 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

After number 792 ran on Friday, Dave Ralph, riding Ernestly Special, and Joseph Peurrung, on Go Dicks Outlaw, with each team posting a time of 14.361, split first place. Kim Doyle riding Dealer Got Um won the second division with a 14.861. Terry Gould and NY Just Say Money won the third division in 15.364 seconds. Madison Matthew on Munch topped the fourth division with a 16.362.

In Round 2 the times heated up, and once again Dave Ralph and Ernestly Special rose to the top by posting a 14.294. Audra Flamm and Chex in the Black were first in the second division with a 14.795. January Elrod on Wee Quick and Sue Parker riding The Money Robber shared the third division first place, each clocking a 15.294. Sue also won the fourth division on VF Firin Fun with a time of 16.299.

On Saturday, the Youth Division winners included Tiffany Drotos riding Indians Flame, taking the first division in a smoking 14.033 seconds. Eight-year old Rylee Butler won the second division with a 14.575 on Tom’s Lucky Deuce. Ashley Durand and CC Baby Ruth placed first in the third division with a 15.057, and fourth division honors went to Ariel Folk and Jags Golden Lilly with a 16.034.

In the Senior Division Dave and Ernestly Special were back at it, posting a 14.199 to win. Alan Staley and Hot Little Valentine won the second division with a 14.765. Diana Blanchard riding Stardust Dun It took the third division in 15.204 seconds, and the fourth division winner was Dennis Baldi on Heeza Tapper running a 16.250.

Anticipation grew as the top 30 horse and rider combinations from each division of the Open Rounds 1 and 2 were invited back for a Sunday showdown. Running order was determined using the slowest to fastest time of each qualifying round and excitement built with each change of the leader board. In the end, it was again Dave Ralph and Ernestly Special who posted the fastest time to take home Championship honors. Their time of 14.157 set the pace for Clara Lou Carter and Special to win the second division with a 14.658, Megan Rogers and JMD Sweet Doll won the third division in 15.165 seconds and Courtney Kitching riding Little Miss Hostess took home the fourth division title with a 16.196.

Dave and Ernestly Special made history by sweeping each round of the Open, the Seniors and then claiming the Open Championship.

Congratulations to all who participated – there is no doubt that many are already working on their game plan for next year’s event.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

• July 22-23—Hardee County Cattlemen’s Association 3rd Annual Ranch Rodeo, Wauchula • July 23—National Day of the Cowboy

Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo

July 22 & 23

Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center

(863) 763-4740 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

• August 7—Cowboy Ministries, Turner Ag Center, Arcadia • August 7—Open Barrel Race, Turner Ag Center, Arcadia • August 13—Christian Rodeo, Turner Ag Center, Arcadia • August 26-27—Lake Placid Caladium Festival, Lake Placid

Friday Ranch Rodeo 6p & Live Band 9p Saturday—Day of the Cowboy Cattle Drive 4p, Ranch Rodeo 6p, Live Band 9p For additional information on entering the ranch rodeo contact Heather Rucks at (863) 763-4740.

Entry limited to 10 teams per night.

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 57

The History of the Lake Placid Caladium Festival

by Anne Reynolds reprinted from www.lpfla.com

Lake Placid is “The Caladium Capital of The World.” For any industry that makes such a mark on an area, there should be a festival celebrating it. The idea was first broached by Doris Gentry and a few years later growers were prodded and helped

by Ann Bond and Audrey Vickers with the Convention and Visitors Bureau. They suggested September as the caladiums were in full bloom and it was a slow month for merchants. Unfortunately, the written history and a large historical exhibit of the caladium industry were lost in the 2004 hurricane, but enough survived in family files to tell the story and continue the festival.

In 1990, two competing caladium grower families decided to work together to make the festival possible. Carolyn Phypers of Happiness Farms and Dot Bates of Bates Sons and Daughters Caladiums took on the job. The first location of the festival was at Happiness Farms. In preparation, Bates and Phypers drove a pick-up truck and walked door to door offering free caladium bulbs (tubers) by the bagful to anyone from Hwy. 621 to Lake Blue who would plant them. Bus tours could see the fields and then be shown how beautifully caladiums could be incorporated into a landscape. Two years later, they added the WatersEdge neighborhood and left trays of bulbs in the cul-desac for anyone who wanted to plant them.

The festival had one bus and two runs the first year, with the number increasing to as many as 41 tours in a year with one bus doing four or five runs since. Sun Bank, now Sun Trust, donated $3,000 the first year to start the effort and continued support for several years. Vera, Rose and Julia Sapp entertained festival crowds as cloggers, and guests also viewed a video about the industry in a barn. Norma Stokes and the ladies of the local Farm Bureau provided the lunch for everyone.

All the growers were assigned a task and had a display table.

Other growers besides Bates and Phypers who participated the first year were D & L Bulb Farm, Cooper’s Farm, Joiners, Lake Huntley, Lake Placid Bulb, Parker Island, Hendry Caladiums, Sapp Caladiums, Scarboroughs from Lake Placid and Caladium World and Buddy’s from Sebring.

One important commitment was to recognize the living, first generation caladium pioneers, Emmett and Mildred Bates, Paul Phypers, Sr., Boots Holmes, and Zena Hendry. Some of the older growers would sit in rocking chairs at the Caladium CoOp and talk. All the men took turns standing under the shade cloth to talk to visitors and answer questions. It was moved into the Co-Op building two years ago, with Dot and Maxine Kelley overseeing the historical aspect. Maxine’s family was involved in the industry for many years, and her granddaughter, Heidi (Head) Davis, was the first Caladium Queen.

Although the number of growers has decreased over the last few years, the second generations of growers are making their mark. The Bates family has had a grower’s exhibit each year. Their daughter, Teri, grows out the pots of new variet-

58 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

ies and those left in the industry. All members of the Bates and Phypers families can be seen in action throughout the festival.

The festival has something for everyone. All food vendors are local and the Caladium Committee ensures there are no duplicates. They only have room for a hundred booths so there’s a long waiting list for arts and crafts, with an attempt to keep at least half of the booths caladium-related. The vendors love the venue because they are welcomed and given coffee, donuts, and orange juice when they set up. They also receive water throughout the day and a bag of caladiums at the end. Vendors are visited, treated well and apply for the following year immediately.

Lake Placid is usually the first venue of their season.

The festival has required the support of numerous community volunteers. Marge Callas, under the auspices of the Caladium Arts and Crafts Co-Op, has done the books through the years and the money they take in is divided equally between the two entities. Debbie Rutledge has worked hard on getting entertainment for the weekend. Hector Hernandez was the first treasurer. The town and the county have been very supportive by blocking off the streets and giving free garbage pick-up.

Carolyn stated, “We wanted to help the town and businesses, so the second year we held it in town.” Every year since, the festival has been held in Stuart Park on Interlake Boulevard.

The festival month was later changed to August because of hurricane season.

“What sustained the festival have been the profits from selling the potted plants which Bates grows, and the caladium bulbs which Happiness Farms bags up and sells,” said Dot. “All of that money went back into the festival to keep it going,” Carolyn added. The festival has grown and become popular with locals and vendors. All proceeds from the festivals, which included large, personal donations were used for expenses, saved for future festivals and have supported many worthwhile community projects. One year donations included a $2,000 scholarship and donations to the police department, schools, the Chamber of Commerce, Educational Foundation, Woman’s Club, Last Chance Ranch, Masons, Beautification of Stuart Park, Town of Lake Placid and Bradenton Research Center for a total of $8,200 festival dollars given back to the area.

The success of the festival over the years has been a commitment of grower participation, volunteers, returning vendors, and the people who come from everywhere to enjoy the unique flavor of a small town. Some have decided to come back and make it their home.

The festival was turned over to the Chamber of Commerce in 2007. We are indebted to the Phypers and Bates families for their investments, perseverance, hard work, and dedication to use their finances, time and expertise to make our community a better place.

This year’s Caladium Festival will be held August 26-27.

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

James D. Webb, Jr.

Senior Vice President–Investments Financial Advisor (863) 402-2009 • (800) 937-0259 2623 US Highway 27 South, Sebring, FL 33870 Merrill Lynch Wealth Management is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation. Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, a registered broker-dealer and member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation. Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured

Are Not Bank Guaranteed

May Lose Value

© 2011 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

Commercial, Residential Acreage and Construction Surveys Elevation Certificates Plating Services 16 N. Lake Ave., Avon Park, FL 33825 Office: 863-453-4113 • Cell: 863-443-6230 Fax: 863-453-4122 • shercoinc@yahoo.com

Hardee County Cattlemen’s Association 3rd Annual Ranch Rodeo* F�����, J��� 22�� � S�������, J��� 23�� 7:30 �.�.

H����� C����� C��������’� A���� T��� E�����: Double Mugging Team Branding Team Sorting Bronc Riding Trailer Loading Mutton Busting All events each night - half of the teams on Friday & half on Saturday (Five team membersfour males and one female)

Your business

Payout: 1st Place $1,000 2nd Place $500 3rd Place $250

Buckles for All Around Team Winner Buckle for Mutton Busting Winner

Covering Charlotte, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands & Okeechobee Counties Visit Us Online!

www.inthe fieldmagazine.com

Tel: 813.708.3661

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

For Team Applications and HCCA Ranch Rodeo Rules, contact Darin Hughes at (863) 781-0349 or darin@krausegroveservice.com

$500 Team Entry Fee payable to: Hardee County Cattlemen’s Assoc.

PO Box 1831, Wauchula, FL 33873 Deadline to Enter: July 1, 2011 *A Florida Cattlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo Qualifying Event Note: No alcohol permitted on premises July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 59

Heartland’s Growing Businesses

Heartland’s Growing Businesses

SEPTIC PROBLEMS? CLOGGED DRAINS? ALL AROUND SEPTIC & SEWER, INC.

SEPTIC TANKS CLEANED GREASE TRAPS CLEANED SEWER & DRAIN LINES CLEANED SYSTEM INSPECTIONS DRAIN FIELD: INSTALLATION & REPAIRS

s All Callred Answenally Perso

Over Years11

EMERGENCY SERVICE PROMPT • PROFESSIONAL • EXPERIENCED 863-655-4700 Licensed • Insured Senior Citizen or SR0081605 Discount 863-655-0100 Serving Highlands, Hardee, DeSoto & Okeechobee Counties

Dixie Pride Pulled Pork Shoulder

INDOOR RANGE

Season a fresh 8 to 10 pound pork shoulder wtih Dixie Pride Seasoning. Line a pan with heavy duty aluminum foil, making sure several inches extend beyond pan on all sides. Place rack on top of foil in bottom of pan. Add 1 cup of water and place pork shoulder on rack. Place a large sheet of foil on top of shoulder. Wrap the edges of the top and bottom pieces of foil together in order to seal the pork shoulder inside the foil with the water. Place in oven at 250 degrees and bake for 6 hours. For smoked flavor, sear all sides over oak coals before wrapping in foil.

E D G E WO O D L A N D S C A P E COMMERCIAL

RESIDENTIAL

• IRRIGATION DESIGN SERVICE INSTALLATION

• LANDSCAPE DESIGN & INSTALLATION SOD RETAIL NURSERY Terry Hancock 502 N. Central, Avon Park FL

(863)453-7300

FREE

Set up, Tune & Range Time with Purchase of New Bow

1 East Wall Street, Frostproof, FL 33843 E-Mail: spurlows.outdoors@hotmail.com

Frostproof, FL • 863-635-0240

www.spurlows.com

• BOWS (All Major Makes & Models) • ARROWS-STRINGSCROSSBOWS • LARGEST SELECTION OF ARROWS & BROADHEADS

Sunshine Family Dentistry For your complete family dental care. ~ Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry ~ Extractions ~ Implants ~ Root Canals

~ Dentures and Partials ~ Implant Denture Stabilization ~ Wisdom Teeth Removal ~ Financing Available

James E. Oxer, D.M.D. (863) 465-2037

Helping Our Community Celebrate Our Nation’s Independence Goin’ Postal’s two locations in Sebring, Florida are helping Highlands County celebrate Independence Day this summer with a flag exchange. Anyone who brings a worn, torn, tattered or faded American flag, 3 x 5 feet or larger, to either of our locations in Sebring will get a new 3 x 5 foot flag to display proudly.

Gale Decker who owns the two pack and ship stores with her husband Alan, said that the Goin’ Postal stores in Sebring also support our country’s military with ongoing donations to the Fisher House Foundation as well as collecting old, outdated cell phones for the Cell Phones for Soldiers program. Goin’ Postal collects donations of books, which are then sold in the stores for donations which in turn are sent to the Fisher House locations in Florida. Information on these two programs can be found at www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com and www.fisherhouse.org.

Goin’ Postal is located at 6223 US 27, Sebring (next to Subway in the Sun N’ Lake Plaza) and at 3609 Sebring Parkway, Sebring, (1 mile off 27 on right side). Stop by and check out Goin’ Postal and bring an old flag or cell phone and help Goin’ Postal honor our nation’s military..

60 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Please patronize these fine businesses in your area. www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 61

C L A S S I F I E D S MOUNTAIN TOP #185445

Located in Blairsville Ga. Fantastic mountain views, like new, 2/2 with wood burning fireplace, loft, basement, porch, second home use only from original owners! $299,000 Call and ask For Jane Baer with Jane Baer Realty.

1-800-820-7829.

NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAINS!

Blairsville (Union County), Blue Ridge (Fannin County),Young Harris & Hiawassee (Towns County) as well as Murphy & Hayesville NC! Let us help you find your dream home getaway cabin! Call today 1-800-820-7829 and ask for Jane Baer with Jane Baer Realty. www.janebaerrealty.com • 2007 HARLEY DAVIDSON •

Dyna Glide Streetbob, cobalt blue, only 368 miles, EXCELLENT condition. Extras added!!! Ready to ride. $10,000 Serious Inquiries (813) 659-3402

POLLINATION SERVICES

Strong bees when you want them.We also have honey and skin care products made with honey and ingredients from the hive.

Cantu Apiaries, 863-735-1679 ALL -PRO FLATBED TRAILER

7X20 with beavertail and ramps. Tandem 7,000 pd axels $2,500 Call Hank 863-559-8718 Call “The Land Lady”

Acreage, lakefront ranches, “mini” farms.

Mary Adsit, Realtor 863-285-7118 www.maryadsit.com PORTABLE BULK FEEDERS

Excellent Condition!!! Call 863-528-4356 Nottlely River Access Cabin #204623

One bedroom & one bath with great room and wood-burning fireplace. Back porch faces the woods for privacy. Mtn. views year round! Comes furnished $142,000.

Call and ask for Jane Baer with Jane Baer Realty. 800-820-7829 ARCADIA 14+ ACRES

Only!

NEW HOLLAND REPOS

TN60A 2WD 2007 models w/front brooms and box blades. Never used, sold new $31,270. Sell $27,000, balance of warranty.

813-623-3673 42’-Reach forklift

3,952 hours. $29,469 Call 863-698-4114

1984 KUBOTA B6200

2 wd, w/4 ft. Finish Mower $3,000 Call 863-698-2967 HOMOSASSA LOT

One acre lot, high & dry, approx. 100 yds.

From the Mason Creek River. Fishing & Boating Heaven! 813-503-9033 WANTED UTILITY/POWER POLES

Call Robert 863-735-0808 or 863-445-0358 (cell) ANGUS FREEZER BEEF

$2.75/lb. cut and wrapped. Whole, Half or Quarter. Cash, Mastercard or Visa 863-206-2828

Mature oak trees, ready to harvest; fenced, pond, pasture, metal barn w/concrete floor, 3 wells, animal barn, catch pen. $108,000.00 A-260 Coldwell Banker Gamiotea Realty, 863-494-3600 or 888-494-4880. Each office independently owned and operated.

CASH FOR CARS:

All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-871-9638 Donate Vehicle Grocery Coupon

Receive

$1000

NOAH’S ARC Support No Kill Shelters, Research to Advance Veterinary Treatments FREE TOWING, Tax Deductible, Non-Runners Accepted 1-866-912-Give DISH Network’s DIGITAL PRICE!

LOWEST

ALL-

As low as $24.99/mo plus FREE HD FOR LIFE! Call for limited time BONUS! Call Now. 1-888-347-5931 FEDERAL POSTAL JOBS!

Earn $12 - $48 per hour / No Experience Full Benefits / Paid Training 1-866-4774953, Ext. 57 Now Hiring!!

CHEAP METAL ROOFING

pto hp, 2 wheel drive, shuttle shift, hydrolic remotes. $10,500. Call 813-752-8722

Discount Metal Mart 8’x10’ sheets in stock! Prices from $5 to $12. Custom lengths available. If you buy elsewhere, we both lose. Call 813-752-7088

1952 JOHN DEERE TRACTOR

Kioti 12OK Tractor

2004 MASSEY FERGUSON 461-2-55

M MODEL Runs Good! $1,985 O.B.O. Jim 863-858-2226

62 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

4wd auto, only 87 hours NEW, $6950 firm.

Call 863-465-8144 or 404-862-5710

July 2011

Discount equine Service Bundle

Coggins, vaccination, teeth float.

Call 813-752-0224 or 813-951-0118

For Sale: Remodeled Lake House

on Lk Istokpoga in Lorida. Golf cart community, 3/3 with 3 car carport, Upper is 2/2 and lower is 1/1 apt. 152 lake frontage, concrete ramp and room for 5 boats, water/elect at dock, 2 huge screen porches/ screened cookout room/RV full hookups/ workshop/25KW standby automatic generator/new kitchen upper, nice kitchen lower unit/2 laundrys/ New since 2008 are water heaters, windows, a/c units, well pumps, septic system, hot tub , etc. all tile and wood floors with carpet in bdrms. By owner $349,900., New 4 point inspection for insurance passed last month. Info call Dick Couture 863-386-0029 or 863-4145276. Or couture@vistanet.net.

Mark Your Calendars and Your Map

Worm castings

Add living microbes to improve your soil, use less water. Call Sean, Green Leaf Worm Farm, 941-626-5970. www.GreenLeafWormFarm.com Leesburg Lake Front Home

7 ac (mol), Lake Front w/beautiful sunset, 3/3/2 home w/ det workshop/barn covered equip port, plus cabin. Dock, good fishing, skiing, boating. Small citrus grove w/variety of fruit. $595,000.

Call Coldwell Banker Gamiotea Realty at 863-494-3600 or 888-494-4880. **Lake Placid Christian School Students: Have Your Parent(s) Sign Here:_________________ and please return to Mr. G.

H Now Hiring H Account Executive and Writers.

Please email us at:

info@inthefieldmagazine.com We look forward to hearing from you!

TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED ADS CALL 813-759-6909

Cattle Industry Summer Conference August 1-4, 2011 Orlando, (Kissimmee) Florida

info@inthefieldmagazine.com www.inthefieldmagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

July 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 63

rhizogen

PRODUCTS AVAILABLE

fertilizers High Performance Organic, True Granular, Microbial, Fertilizers.

• • • • • •

Billions of beneficial microbes inside plus mycorrhizal fungi True granulated and homogeneous products Safe-Decontaminated, low odor, and free of pathogens The most technologically advanced manufacturing facility in the U.S. Fully allowed under NOP, with no restrictions Research verified and field tested

www.rhizogen.com U.S. Patents 6,878,179, 7,044,994 & 7,442,224 FARMING

NURSERY

ORCHARD

TURF

LANDSCAPE

FOR PROFESSIONAL APPLICATION AND DISTRIBUTION CONTACT:

64 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

July 2011

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com