In The Field Magazine - South Mississippi

March 2011 ®

Chance Smart Do You Really Know Who He Is?

Covering What’s Growing

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 1

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 3

VOL. 1 • ISSUE 12

Cover Story ®

Karen Berry

Chance Smart Do You Really Know Who He Is?

Associate Publisher Covering What’s Growing

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

Don Celoria

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

1

Chance Smart Pg. 16 6 MSU Garden Calendar 8 Grub Station Crescent City Grill 10 Business UpFornt Water Flow Productions, Inc. 12 Whipping Bowl 14 Rocking Chair Chatter 15 Turners & Burners Food Drive 20 Poultry Farming is Big Business in Mississippi

Senior Managing Editor and Writer

22 NWTF Reaches Conservation Milestone With Wild Turkey Release

Senior Managing Editor and Writer Sarah Holt

Office Manager Bob Hughens

Amey Celoria

Designer

Juan Carlos Alvarez

Staff Writers

Al Berry James Frankowiak Judy Smith Royce Armstrong

26 A Closer Look Common Eastern Bumble Bee

Photography

Royce Armstrong

28 Mississippi Cropland Data

Facebook Profile

Sean Green

www.facebook.com/ berry.publications

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March 2011

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Contributing Writers

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.

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Karen Berry Chass Bronson W. Russell Hancock Danny Crampton Ron Brown

24 Bio Soil Enhancers

In The Field® Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and other local venues within South Mississippi. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909.

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March 2011

No Farmers No Food, four words that mean so much.

But those four words don’t tell the entire story of agriculture.

Agriculture products are found in a variety of things that people would never suspect. Of course our clothes are one product, but what about your crayons, pencils and paper?

We are reliant upon many agricultural products on a daily basis and this is something that Mississippi Farm Bureau is trying to teach in their “Farm Families of Mississippi” campaign. This campaign was created to educate those not actively engaged in farming. Most people today are generations removed from the farm and it is of utmost importance that we educate people on the benefits of agriculture.

Other things that have agricultural products in them include paint and wallpaper, laundry detergents and many disinfectants and cleaners. What about candles? Feather pillows and wool blankets? Asphalt on roads, personal care products like soap, shampoo and cosmetics? The list goes on and on. Do some research, you will be amazed at the items that have ingredients tracing to agriculture.

Agriculture is the number one industry in Mississippi contributing $9 billion in income. Check out the Farm Families of Mississippi web site at www.growingmississippi.org for more information on this program.

As always, thank you to our advertisers. You allow us to continue to cover what is growing in Mississippi.

We are always looking for great story ideas. Please contact us if you know someone or something you feel others may be interested in.

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine

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March

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 5

The MSU Garden Calendar: March 2011 Planting • •

•

•

•

Plant new roses before March 15. Broadleaved evergreens such as Magnolia and Holly can be set out at this time.

Plant cold weather annuals: Sweet William, English Daisies, Pansies, and Calendulas. Divide Mondo Grass and Liriope. Divide Cannas, Chrysanthemums, Coreopsis, Phlox, and Obedient Plant.

Start seeds for Tomatoes, Bell peppers, and Eggplant. Set out Thyme, Lemon Balm, Oregeno, Chives, Sage, and Winter Savory. Sow seeds of Johnny Jump-ups, Sweet Peas, Larkspur, Forget-me-nots, and Baby Blue Eyes.

Flowering shrubs may be moved at this time.

Larger shrubs should be moved with a ball of dirt and smaller shrubs may be moved barerooted. This is the best month to move Crape myrtles.

Lawns may be sodded at this time. Plant Gladiolus throughout this month for continuous bloom. Plant Hostas. Caladiums can be started in outdoor containers as soon as weather warms.

Fertilizing •

Fertilize all the garden except acid-loving plants. Topdress Camellias with azalea-camellia fertilizer. Lime Peonies, Clematis, and Boxwoods.

Product of the Month

Herbicide Granules Weed and 10784 & 107 Grass Stopper An easy way to preventGardener’s weed Sp growth around ornamental 11-15-11 trees, shrubs and listed flower An excellentand all-purpose pl and vegetable gardens both fast and sl other areas where contains undesired Nitrogen.

Contains neces weed growth may occur.

Weed to aid in developm free flowerbeds andelements gardens can and crop yield. These elem be yours! Controls Annual Blue-since they be replenished grass, Barnyardgrass, Crabgrass, depleted by the high use an the other soil by vegetable Johnson Grass and many grasses and flowers listed on laUPC Number bel. Application Rate: Apply as 7-32221-1 4 lbs 35 cases per pa early as possible in the growing Number 7-32221-1 season for season-long UPC weed 15 lbs 100 cases per p control. Can be applied anytime around trees, shrubs and Rates: estabApplication Vegetable beds:established 2 lbs. per 100 sq. ft. lished plants.

For per 25 feet of row plants atVegetable least 2”rows: to 3”1/2 talllb.sprinkle Bedding plants: 1/2 lb. per 25 sq. ft. on soil surface at the rate of 1 oz Ornamentals & shrubs: 1/2 cup per 3 feet of he per 10 sq. ft.

Pest Control •

Spray new rose leaves for black spot weekly.

Pruning •

Prune roses at this time. Remove dead and weak canes. Properly dispose of clippings.

Prune Crape myrtles and Altheas. Prune evergreens for shape and size as early in the month as possible. Cut English Ivy back very hard. It will come back very nicely in the spring. Trim Mondo Grass and Liriope with lawn mower set on highest setting (6 inches).

Dispose of trimmings.

Mulch •

Replenish mulch around Azaleas and Camellias.

Miscellaneous •

Dispose of fallen Camellias blossoms to prevent blight. Rake up seed hulls from under bird feeders. They will smother new growth.

Remove dead flowers from tulips and daffodils. Do not cut foliage before it turns yellow and dies.

Home Accent •

Divide or repot overgrown houseplants. Cut back weak parts to encourage new growth.

Apply fertilizer every 2 weeks or so.

Always Read and Follow Label Directions

In Bloom

Bluebells, Chionodoxa, Daffodil, Hyacinth, early Iris, Pansies, Violet, Carolina Jasmine, Azaleas and Camellias, Forsythia, Pearl Bush, Photinia, Flowering Quince, Spirea, flowering fruit trees (Crabapple, Cherry, Pear, and Peach), Oriental Magnolia, and Redbud.

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Tommy’s Tips for March: Tommy says that

now that the weather is a little better, it would be a great time to get out for some sun and fresh air while you finish pruning the trees. For the health of your roses, it is time to fertilize them as well as your deciduous trees and it would be a good idea to start spraying roses for black spot and fungus. It is also a good time to add well rotted humus to vegetable gardens and apply lime to the lawn if it has been over a year. We now have Hi-Yield Turf and Ornamental Weed and Grass Stopper in stock.

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 No Food

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

Winner will be notified by phone.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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Tommy Delia has been working in the nursery business for over 55 years and is considered to be one of the premier garden experts in the state. www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 7

NOW AT YOUR LOCAL BIG DOG DEALER!

Crescent City Grill

by Royce Armstrong photos by Ryan Moore

It was to be a casual lunch, a lunch to sample one of Hattiesburg’s best restaurants -- The Crescent City Grill.

Oh great, I thought when I got the assignment. Hamburger scorched over an open flame. I might need a few extra bucks to cover the Alka-Seltzer.

I did not yet realize how wrong I could be.

The Crescent City Grill is a 124-seat restaurant located just off I-59 in the heart of mid-town Hattiesburg at 3810 Hardy Street (phone number 601-264-0656).

When you walk in the door, the first things that you notice are the friendliness of the staff and the tantalizing aromas of the food. The place is casual dining with a New Orleans theme.

I did not realize it then, but the vegetables, greens and herbs used in the food are fresh, straight out of the company’s own twoacre organic garden.

As one would expect in a New Orleans-style restaurant, seafood and traditional Cajun delights dominate the menu. The menu was graced with such offerings as red beans and rice, sesame seared tuna spinach salad, and The Swamp Thing (po-boy).

The Swamp Thing, I was told, is a delightful blend of fried shrimp, jalapenos, andouille sausage, caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, and remoulade, served with red beans and rice and cole slaw on the side.

I was tempted, but chose a cup of Corn and Crab Bisque and Pan Seared Yellowfin Tuna for appetizers. It was lunch, but this was a special occasion so I also selected a glass of wine from their award-winning wine list.

The Corn and Crab Bisque is rich and creamy with a light spicy flavor. It is delicious.

Chef and restaurant owner Robert St. John told me that the soup has been a favorite since the Crescent City Grill’s first day and has been on the menu every day for the past 23 years. One spoonful and it is easy to understand why.

The pan seared yellow fin tuna is equally sumptuous. The tuna is thinly sliced and served rare with wonton chips, pickled cucumbers, sesame seeds and a Thai chili mustard sauce.

There wasn’t a flame-charred hamburger in sight.

My first impulse when selecting an entree is steak, but knowing that would not be fair to a New Orleans-themed seafood restaurant, I passed on the Certified Black Angus ribeye and the Certified Black Angus Prime Rib. Deciding to take an adventurous risk I selected instead the Eggplant Orleans.

I was not disappointed and my adventurous risk was well

rewarded.

The eggplant dish is truly delicious. Layers of rich and creamy crabmeat holleman with slightly tangy slices of brie cheese were sandwiched between generous slices of eggplant. This was topped with shrimp, mushrooms and Romano cheese, all of which was then smothered in a light Creole cream sauce. Eggplant has never tasted so good.

The generous portions caused me to hesitate when offered a dessert. Thankfully, it was only a momentary hesitation.

Bread pudding is a rare treat and chocolate in any form can hardly be passed by, so for dessert I chose the white chocolate bread pudding. It turns out that this is a house specialty. The bread pudding is homemade, just the right sweetness and texture, laced with white chocolate. Raspberry coulis and a white chocolate sauce is poured over the pudding.

The Crescent City Grill is just one of four restaurants owned and operated by self-taught chef, businessman, and writer Robert St. John.

Next door is the Purple Parrot Cafe’, which is an upscale, white table cloth restaurant that has twice been awarded a FourDiamond rating by Triple A. There is also the Mahogany Bar, which has a neighborhood bar atmosphere with a New Orleans theme.

The newest addition to the New South Restaurant Group is Tabella, a casual Italian restaurant with all of the food made from scratch.

At 49, St. John is a Hattiesburg native who began cooking when he was six years old.

By the time he was in his teens he was waiting tables in local restaurants with a dream of one day owning one himself. He turned that dream into a reality when only 26, opening the Purple Parrot Cafe’.

Energetic and driven, he began writing a syndicated newspaper column and quickly gained national attention. He has been featured in Time Magazine and on National Public Radio. He has appeared on the Food Network, The Travel Channel and Turner South network.

Mississippi Magazine has honored St. John as Mississippi’s top chef in 2006, 2007 and 2008. The Purple Parrot Cafe was named the best fine dining restaurant in the state for 2007.

There is a wide selection of appetizers, soups, salads, seafood and pasta dishes with one sure to tempt any taste. It was hard to make the choices described above, but if they are representative of the rest of the menu, I will be returning again and again.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 9

Business UpFront

Wat

ns, Inc. o i t c u d o e r F l ow P r

By Judy Smith

As winter weather seems to hang around a little too long, Mississippians begin to get spring fever, dreaming of days spent lounging in a lush garden retreat perfect for family barbeques or quiet sunny days with a cool drink and a book. That’s when Water Flow Productions, based in Purvis and Sumrall, can help, bringing just the design for that perfect garden retreat that will become a favorite hideaway for everyone.

Water Flow Productions is the brainchild of Mike and Renee Keith. In June 1995, the couple began their operation, running it as a part-time business from their home, but the Keiths decided that a change was called for.

“We decided it was time to take a leap of faith,” Renee said, as the couple decided to turn their business into a fulltime operation in 2001.

In 2005, the business branched out when the couple purchased a garden center in Purvis and extended their supply list to include plants, landscape and irrigation supplies, feed, animal health products, tack, and saddles. The Keiths opened another location in 2009 in Sumrall to better meet the needs of south Mississippi residents. The Keiths also offer irrigation design, installation, and maintenance. At Water Flow Productions, customers can get lighting systems, walk ways, patios, and stone retaining walls designed and installed, and so much more.

The Keiths offer a wide variety of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, insecticides, and basic gardening needs for any landscape.

The Keiths can also help customers accent their personal space with a lovely array of fountains, birdbaths, and statuary that will enhance the appeal of any garden or home. Water Flow Productions should be your only stop to pick up whatever you need to make your garden look fabulous, but don’t worry if you can’t find exactly what you want there.

“If we don’t have it in Sumrall, we usually have it at the Purvis location and can have what the customer wants to them within

24 hours,” Renee said.

The Keiths offer superior landscape and water garden designs for any home or office. As the economy has taken a downturn, many have resorted to the comfort of home gardens and the tranquility that water gardens can bring to any location. There is nothing quite so soothing as the trickling sound of water or watching colorful koi fish flit around a private water escape.

That is where the Keiths step in, bringing with them beautiful designs and unique ideas that are sure to appeal to all customers. But customers should not worry if they do not know exactly what they want in their garden location, the Keiths are there to offer a friendly ear to hear customers’ concerns and needs and will always offer top-notch guidance and design to make every garden special and gorgeous.

“We help the customers define what exactly will look good in their yard,” Renee said. “We have a good team of employees that can assist them and help them to make the right selection.”

It’s that personal touch that appeals so much to their customers. Water Flow Productions is a family owned and operated business. Joining Mike and Renee on the team are Mike’s dad, Mr. Jake, and the Keiths’ children, Kasi and Jake. “Being a family owned store means our customers see the same faces on a regular basis,” Renee said. The Keiths also boast a very knowledgeable staff at both of their locations. Customers can rest assured that they will be getting only the best advice and guidance from the Keiths and their staff. “We are proud of our employees at our stores,” Renee said. “They know their customers and appreciate their loyalty.”

In anticipation for the upcoming spring season, Water Flow Productions, is once again offering bonus bucks to their customers.

Starting March 1, customers will receive a bonus buck for every $10 they spend at the garden center. The bonus bucks can be redeemed at either location in July, August, and September.

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uctions, Inc. Wa d o r ter Flow P What began as a sideline job for the couple has blossomed into a thriving operation that has proven to be a reliable source for all things needed to turn your home or garden into a tropical retreat. Water Flow Productions is located at 781 Highway 589 in Purvis and at 62 Railroad Avenue in Sumrall. Their hours are Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

10 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 11

Graceland of Purvis 357 Hwy 589 • Purvis, Mississippi 39475 • just off I-59, Exit #51

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Preparation

Mix ingredients in the order given. Pour into a greased 2 qt baking dish.

Bake 15 minutes at 400° then reduce heat to 350° and bake for another 45 minutes.

Old Fashioned Strawberry Shortcake Ingredients

½ cup soft unsalted butter 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 2 cups sifted all purpose flour ½ tsp salt 1 tsp baking powder

Preparation

Place all ingredients in a large bowl and mix with hands into a smooth dough. (Can use paddle attachment on Kitchen Aid). Butter and line the bottom of a 10” round cake pan with waxed paper and press dough evenly into pan. Bake on 350° for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.

To serve this cake, I cut it into wedges and split them in half horizontally and put sweetened strawberries and sweetened whipped cream on top. I usually make two and when the berries are gone, we just eat the cake plain. It is so yummy!

12 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 13

How long has it been since you’ve been to a zoo? If you haven’t been to one lately you should load up the kids in the car and take one in. Here in Florida you have a great selection to choose from.

I remember a few years back my wife and I were at Busch Gardens sitting outside on the patio of one of their African styled restaurants. Patsy was about half way through her sandwich when out of blue down comes a seagull and snatches it out of her hand. That got me to thinking. Those guys have a smart marketing department. First they offer a great value and have developed a wonderful family entertainment venue.

But many people are not aware that most zoos have a method to help to pay to feed the birds and various animals. Just put a quarter in the re-vamped gum machine, hold your hand at the bottom of the chute, and turn the handle. There you have it. You pay to feed them even after paying your admission to the zoo.

The only person I know that has used this system to make money is Dale Woodruff, my cousin who lives near St. Augustine. Every year he has a gigantic yard sale. Dale puts George, his bald headed parrot, outside in the middle of all his junk he has priced at 75 percent off his already low price. Right beside the parrot stand he has a small table with a sign that says, “Feed George and he may talk to you.” He sells a very small bag of nuts for fifty cents. Last year he sold $10.00 worth of nuts, and George gained three pounds. As far as George talking to those who fed him, all he has been known to say is, “Sucker.”

Seeing the elephants at Busch Gardens reminded me of a story that Johnny Ryals told me. The story is that a man from Northwestern University went on a hike through the bush and came across a young bull elephant with one leg raised in the air. The elephant seemed distressed so he approached it very carefully. He got down on one knee, inspected the elephant’s foot, and found a large piece of wood deeply embedded in it.

As carefully and as gently as he could, he worked the wood out with his knife. The elephant gingerly put down his foot, turned to face the man, and with a rather curious look on its face, stared at him for several moments. The man stood frozen, thinking of nothing else but being trampled. Soon the elephant trumpeted loudly, turned, and walked away. The man never forgot that elephant or the events of that day.

Twenty years later, the same man was walking through the Chicago Zoo with his teenaged son. As they approached the elephant enclosure, one of the creatures turned and walked over to near where he and his son were standing. The large bull

14 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

elephant stared at him, lifted its front foot off the ground, then put it down. The elephant did that several times then trumpeted loudly, all the while staring at the man.

Remembering the encounter 20 years earlier, he could not help wondering if this was the same elephant.

With all his courage, he climbed over the railing, and made his way into the enclosure. He walked right up to the elephant and stared back in wonder. The elephant trumpeted again, wrapped its trunk around one of the mans legs and slammed him against the railing, killing him instantly. It probably wasn’t the same elephant.

Then there’s the story of a mother and baby camel that were carrying on a conversation one day when the baby camel asks, “Mom, why have I got these huge three toed feet?” The mother replies, “Well son, when we walk across the desert your toes will help you to stay on top of the soft sand.”

“Okay,” says the son. A few minutes later the son asks, “Mom, why have I got these great long

eyelashes?”

“They are there to keep the sand out of your eyes on the long trips through the desert.”

“Thanks Mom,” replies the son. After a short while, the son returns and asks, “Mom, why have I got these great big humps on my back?”

His mother replies impatiently, “They are there to help us store water for our long treks across the desert.”

“That’s great Mom. So we have huge feet to stop us from sinking, and long eyelashes to keep the sand from our eyes, and these humps to store water, but Mom…” “Yes, son?”

“Why the heck are we in the Busch Gardens zoo?”

On the way home from our visit to Busch Gardens we passed a 1953 like-new Chevrolet on I-4. That got me to thinking about the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. Back then we would ride in cars with no seat belts or air bags. Who ever heard of buying water in plastic bottles? We ate cupcakes, bread and butter, and drank sugar soda but were never over weight, because we were always outside playing. There were no such things as Playstations, Nintendo, X-Boxes, or video games. Never heard of cable TV, video taped movies, surround sound, cell phones, personal computers, Internet, Facebook or Twitter. At Little League tryouts not everyone made the team, and those that didn’t learn to deal with it. Boy have we come a long way.

When my Dad was two years old in 1902 only 14 percent of the homes in the US had a bathtub. The average wage was 22 cents an hour. There were only 8,000 cars in the United States and just 144 miles of paved roads. Canada passed a law prohibiting poor people from entering the country for any reason. More than 95 percent of births in the US took place at home. Yes, times have changed in the last 100 years. Now I wear a small cell phone on my belt that has the capability to let me not only talk with anyone anywhere, but access the Internet and send and receive messages and pictures from anywhere in the world. It’s amazing.

Only in America can a pizza get to your home faster than an ambulance. Only in America do banks leave both doors open and chain the pens to the counters. Only in America do we leave cars worth thousands of dollars in the driveway and put our useless junk in the garage. Only in America there are handicapped parking places in front of a skating rink.

And in closing I wonder why I have never seen the headline “Psychic wins Lottery”?

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Turners

& Burners

By 4-H Volunteers Mrs. Joan Rowell & Mrs. Lona N. Booth

510-B Wingate Road • 5 miles from New Augusta & Richton Full service family style restaurant inside our general store Crystal Korbie, Erin Booth, Ava Rayborn Mrs. Tammy Korbie, Bryson Rowell, Morgan Saucier, Brandi Korbie, Cora Rayborn, “Kirky” Korbie Hannah Rowell, Anna Childress, Emma Booth, “Elvis” the pony, Mrs. Lisa Cox.

Lamar County’s Turners n Burners 4-H Club was very busy this past holiday season. On December 11 the club held a Showdeo at the Lamar County Multipurpose Center. This is a community service event that the club hosts several times a year. These showdeos allow all the youth in our community to participate in fun and safe rodeo style events, from our Little Britches Mutton Bustin’ to Pole Bending or Break-a-way Roping, there is something for all young equestrians to enjoy.

At this particular showdeo, in place of a gate entry fee, the club asked each vehicle entering the gate to make a donation. The children accepted canned goods or small monetary donations. Any contribution was greatly appreciated no matter how big or small. This gave all of our members young and old a chance to make their community a better place, which is part of their 4-H pledge.

We are very proud to report that the Tuners n Burners collected an impressive $161.68 in cash and several boxes of dried goods. Then on January 17 they gathered together again.

With the help of their leader, Mrs. Lisa Cox, the donations were all delivered to the Extra Miles Ministry, led by Cynthia McMahon, at Good Hope Baptist Church. The Extra Mile Ministry is devoted to feeding the physically and spiritually hungry in Lamar County. While at the church the kids could see where their donations went and how they would impact others.

The Lamar County 4-H volunteers and leaders strive to instill Christian values into our children. One of which is to help others who are in need. In Deuteronomy 15:11, God commands us to open our hands to others. David teaches in Psalms 41:1, “Blessed is he that considereth the poor.” We would like to give a special THANK YOU to our Leader, Mrs. Lisa Cox. Mrs. Lisa goes above and beyond donating her time and resource. She is what makes our club here in Lamar County so successful. Not only does she teach our children the wonders of horsemanship, but instills community pride. Mrs. Lisa helps the youth live out their 4-H pledge, all the while maintaining a good sense of Christian morals and values that are invaluable to our children, but are so often overlooked in this day and age.

Thank you, again, Mrs. Lisa and all our adult volunteers.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 15

CHANCE SMART— Do You Really Know Who He Is? A Professional Bull Rider and Much More

LEAF RIVER SPORTS

One

by Jim Frankowiak photos courtesy of PRCA ProRodeo Photo/Mike Copeman

16 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

answer to the question, who is Chance Smart, is that he is a professional bull rider who has been competing on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Professional Bull Riding tours since 2004.

He’s pretty good, too, winning more than $500,000 since he turned professional.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 17

While that first answer is correct, Chance would much rather be known as a Christian who ministers and happens to be a bull rider. “There’s no question that my bull riding attracts attention and brings people to my ministry, but it is really secondary to my role as both a Christian and minister,” he said.

Chance was born at Tupelo, Mississippi in 1983 and now calls Philadelphia, Mississippi his home. He grew up in a home where rodeo was pretty important. “My mom Yvonne was a barrel racer and my dad Keith was involved in team roping,” said Smart. “I can do both, but have done neither professionally. I was always attracted to those crazy guys that ride bulls. Now, I’m one of them.”

“It’s a little like riding a horse bareback, but you have the leverage of having one hand tied to the bull and with my helmet on, I feel pretty good and safe.”

As an amateur, Chance competed in high school and while in college. He was Mississippi State High School Rodeo Association champion in 2002 and National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association Ozark Region champion in 2005. He attended East Central Community College at Decatur and received his business technology degree from the University of West Alabama. The business side of his degree is focused on management, while the technology side covers all aspects of welding.

Chance has not had to put his college degree to work since his bull riding achievements have stood him well. “We work hard for eight months of the year going from rodeo to rodeo and hopefully make enough through winnings so we can take it a little easier the rest of the year,” said Smart, who likes to play golf and build furniture and other items when not competing.

His bull riding career achievements to date are pretty impressive. In addition to earnings of more than $504,000, including more than $50,000 last year, he has qualified for the Tour Finale and has two DNCRF qualifications in 2006-2007. Last year he won the Clovis (California) Rodeo and North Idaho Fair & Rodeo at Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

In 2005, Smart won the Dodge Southeastern Circuit Finals Rodeo. A year later, he won the Washington Parish Free Fair Rodeo at Franklinton, Louisiana, the Austin County Fair & Rodeo at Belleville, Texas, the Buckin’ on the River Rodeo, Savannah, Tennessee, the Big Spring (Texas) Cowboy Reunion & Rodeo and the Crockett (Texas) Lions Club PRCA Rodeo.

2007 was a good year for Smart. He finished third in the world standings after placing in six of 10 rounds at the Wrangler NFR. Chance was second in the average and only World Champion Wes Silcox rode more bulls at the rodeo than Smart.

He won the average title at the RodeoHouston Xtreme Bulls Tour stop with 172 points on two head, earning $21,493. Smart won the Walker County Fair & Rodeo at Huntsville, Texas, the Rodeo of the Mid-South (Southhaven, Ms) and the Dodge Southeastern Circuit Finals Rodeo at Brighton, Florida. He was also co-champion at the Wild West Pro Rodeo (Silver City, N.M.) with a 90-point ride and the Deadwood, South Dakota, Days of ’76 Rodeo. He ended the year in second place with winnings of $57,423.

In 2008, Chance tied with Douglas Duncan for first place in Round 3 of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and placed in two other rounds. He was second in world standings with earnings of $197,225. His wins included the Xtreme Bulls Tour Finale at Indianapolis, Indiana and the season points championship. He won the San Antonio Xtreme Bulls Tour event , the

18 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, the Goliad (Texas) County Fair PRCA Rodeo, the Tate FFA Alumni Foundation Rodeo at Pensacola, Florida, the Crowley’s Ridge Saddle Club & Lions PRCA Rodeo (Forest City, Ark.) and the Barrington, Kansas PRCA Rodeo.

2009 was a tough year for Smart. On January 31 he sustained a severe concussion, fractured right cheek bone and injured his right eye at a Rapid City, South Dakota, Xtreme Bulls event when he was struck in the head by a horn while riding Burns Rodeo bull Skunk Works. He was knocked unconscious and stepped on. He underwent surgery in April to repair the damage in his right eye and came back to win the Mesquite Champion Rodeo in June. He finished the year 101st in the world standings with winnings of $11,128. Since that January incident, he’s had a hip problem that required surgery and shattered his shoulder blade in July of last year.

“I’ve has some challenging and rough times, but I’m back and enjoying myself,” he said.

A good bit of the joy stems from a person he met six years ago who has become his wife. Summer, a massage therapist, is from Philadelphia, Mississippi and grew up within the Pentecostal faith. “Since meeting and marrying Summer, I have come to a more complete understanding of my faith and the importance of the Bible,” said Smart. “Many think the Bible is a history book, the story of Jesus’ life on earth. It is that, but also so much more. It is the way for each of us to live our life and deal with the challenges we face every day. I’m hooked on God.” It’s a good bet that Chance is one of Summer’s regular massage “customers.” She’s also ready and willing to help other competitors as the need arises.

Smart participates in the Xtreme Life rodeo ministry with his close friends and fellow riders, Kanin Asay and Robby Welch. “We spend a good deal of time on the road together and we have a ball, not just riding bulls but working together in our ministry.”

Smart was ordained in the ministry at the end of January in 2010.

The Xtreme Life Ministry invites anyone to the arena grounds who needs to repent and change their lives. “We offer our help in this world of turmoil to those who want to be set free from the devil’s grasp,” said Smart. He and his ministry colleagues seek out other opportunities to minister, especially to the young. “Young people are attracted to us as bull riders, but we offer so much more and it’s great to have the opportunity to spread the word of the Lord to them.”

“My number one goal is to preach,” said Chance. “I have come to recognize that the Bible offers each of us the way to solve the problems we have in our daily lives. The word of God is so powerful. I look at the Bible as the manual for us to follow as we live our lives on earth.”

Smart recognizes that bull riding is his vehicle for attracting people to his ministry. “I have to also serve as a role model for those who follow our profession. That means conducting myself at all times in a way that reflects properly not only on bull riding, but on me as a Christian who ministers to those in need.”

For Smart, the future is in God’s hands. “If He wants me to be a champion bull rider, it will happen. If He wants me to minister full time, that, too, will happen. Whatever it is, I will give my best.”

Getting back to the question of who Chance Smart is. He’s a Christian who ministers and happens to be a professional bull rider. “I’m enjoying the heck out of life.”

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 19

Work starts early as the sun rises over the chicken houses

is Big Business in Mississippi

By Judy Smith

Becky and Charlie Ingram

Poultry farming in Mississippi has long been a major efits from the work are not often seen until several years down the source of income for farmers and corporations alike. According road. “When we first got them, we didn’t like them very much to Mark Leggett, president of the Mississippi Poultry Association, until we got them paid for,” Becky said with a laugh. “Then we poultry reigns as the state’s number one commodity in terms of decided that we liked them.” value, and the state ranks fourth nationally in the production of The Ingrams learned of the many essentials that must accompany broiler chickens. Of those poultry farmers in Mississippi, about a poultry farm, such as a litter shed with a roof to keep debris in 80 percent produce broiler chickens and the rest produce eggs, and a compost shed where deceased chickens are placed and comLeggett stated. The primary poultry producers in the state are lo- posted. There are specific guidelines that are regulated by national cated in Scott and Simpson counties with 794 each. There are 283 agencies concerning just about every aspect of the poultry farm. farms in Jasper County and 579 farms in Jones County. In 2009, A typical day in the life of a poultry farmer starts very broilers eggs and chickens accounted for $2.3 billion, just about early and almost never ends. Charlie usually rises at about 6 am half of the total of all agricultural production in Mississippi. to check on the chickens, making sure that the systems are operLeggett stated that Mississippi exported ating correctly and to pick up the mor$333 million in chickens worldwide, and tality to deposit in the compost pile. a majority of those chickens comes from Throughout the day, Charlie checks on the state’s 3rd Congressional District, the chickens about three or four times. which leads the nation in poultry proHis machinery is kept in check by a genduction. erator, which has become a requirement

Those staggering numbers by state law for any poultry farm. Until could not be possible without the hard the chickens are three weeks old, Charlie work of local farmers and their famimust manually feed the chickens. Such lies, such as Charlie and Becky Ingram is the routine seven days a week. of Jasper County. In 1996, the Ingrams The Ingrams receive several shipfounded their four poultry houses and ments of 83,200 day-old chickens per produce 56-day broilers for Peco Foods, year. Mortality rates are quite low for Inc. the Ingrams. In the past year, they have

Charlie Ingram stated that he only had about 3,000 deaths for the four and his family feel “fortunate to grow houses, and Charlie feels fortunate that for such a good company,” but when Charlie Ingram sets the controls for the day’s the number is so low considering the they began their venture into the poultry feeding and watering of the chickens large shipments that he gets. business, they learned of the many conAfter the Ingrams’ chickens are sold, siderations that came with the business, such as securing financing they may have about 12 to 14 days without livestock, but that and lots of paperwork. In 1996, it cost $74,000 to build each 424- doesn’t give Charlie time to rest. In fact, he feels that the time foot house, but that number has increased along with the prices of between shipments is the hardest part of owning a poultry farm. heating and cooling bills, as well as feed prices.

During that time, Charlie must clean out the houses, till up the The Ingrams felt the mild climate in the area would be a good dirt, and get the structures ready for a new shipment. “That’s place for a poultry farm. “The only problem that we have is the where a lot of the manual labor comes in,” Charlie said. “It’s espehumidity,” Charlie said. “If we can get the chickens through that, cially hard during the summer because the turnaround is so much then we’re doing pretty good.” Leggett discovered that climate quicker. We sometimes get a new shipment within seven days.” does not have to determine where poultry houses are built because The Ingrams have an older farm, but they do have a so many of the new farms have effective climate controlled houses. computerized system that is used to feed and water the chickens.

Poultry farming can be an expensive venture, and ben- Charlie said that many of the newer farms have very sophisticated

computer systems that almost allow the farm to run by itself, but they do not take away the manual labor that all poultry farmers face. That’s when Charlie has depended on the help of his family, including wife Becky and their son Barrett. The Ingrams have worked together to keep their poultry farm going, sharing in the work and dealing with any crisis that might arise. It’s the unexpected occurrences that often surprise some new to the field of poultry farming, such as diseases or natural disasters. Also, there are other considerations that poultry farmers must consider, such as the need for de-cakers, wall cleaners, and tractors.

When the Ingrams started their farm, they received some complaints about the smell, but Charlie came up with a plan to keep his neighbors happy. “I started giving my neighbors compost and helped them put it out in their yards to keep them looking healthy and green,” he said. “Some people sell their compost, but I just give it to my neighbors and haven’t received any complaints since.”

Another drawback to owning poultry farms is the fact that the owners are pretty much tied down to the farm, but the Ingrams have made that work for them. “It’s worked for us because Charlie is a homebody,” Becky said. “I get to go shopping or traveling sometimes with my sisters, and he’s just as happy as he can be to stay here and watch over the chickens.”

Despite the difficulty of owning and running a poultry farm, there are many benefits that make the effort worthwhile. “Without a doubt, the best part of all of this has been being able to watch my child grow up,” Charlie said. “When Barrett was younger, he was there with me every step of the way, and he still helps out. But nothing can beat being able to be home with your family.”

In a few years, Charlie plans to hand over the reins to his son Barrett, and he hopes that his son will help start a new trend by bringing more young people into the field of poultry farming. The Ingrams hope that one day the poultry farming business will see a few younger faces. “Young people could really have a good life with a chicken farm,” Becky said. “We just hope that someday maybe some changes can be made to allow them into the field earlier.”

The Ingrams have built a good life and strong family through their poultry farm and are very appreciative of their good fortune. “The Lord has been with us every step of the way,” Becky said. “We have been blessed to be able to do this and to work with such a good company.”

20 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 21

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NWTF Reaches Conservation Milestone With Wild Turkey Release The second important factor was the NWTF’s founding in 1973. The NWTF offered wildlife managers a nonprofit partner to raise the funds needed to greatly expand trap and transfer efforts and provide volunteers to help conduct trap and transfers projects.

Thanks to the efforts of wildlife management agencies and the NWTF, wild turkeys currently occupy 99 percent of suitable habitat in North America. The NWTF continues to focus on improving and conserving upland habitat, which is critical to sustaining healthy populations of wild turkey and many other species hat share this important habitat.

Because of the success of trap and transfer, the interest in turkey hunting is also increasing. In 1973, there were turkey hunting seasons in only 22 states. Today, there are hunting seasons in 49 states, Canada and Mexico.

The number of turkey hunters is up 15 percent from 1996 to 2006, according to a recently released study by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. During that same time period, participation by all other hunters decreased 19 percent.

“This illustrates how successful we’ve been in reintroducing the wild turkey to so many states,” Kennamer said. “To have hunting in 49 states, Canada and Mexico is tremendous.

They even have a turkey hunting season on Long Island, New York for the first time in 100 years. Now more people than ever before have the opportunity to experience this grand bird in the wild.”

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As the wild turkey glided across the field and touched down in its new home in Gardner Canyon near Tucson, Ariz., the crowd of attendees looked on with a sense of awe.

The soaring Gould’s hen represented a tremendous milestone to James Earl Kennamer, Ph.D., of the National Wild Turkey Federation. That bird was the 200,000th wild turkey released through the NWTF’s trap and transfer program.

“The restoration of the wild turkey has succeeded beyond what anyone could have imagined,” said Kennamer, the NWTF’s chief conservation officer. “The trap and transfer of the 200,000th wild turkey is a truly meaningful conservation milestone. I am excited to see what we can accomplish as we now focus more of our efforts on the conservation and improvement of upland habitat, which not only benefits wild turkeys but also a vast range of other wildlife.”

Experts and volunteers from the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the NWTF recently trapped the 200,000th wild turkey in southern Arizona. The bird was one of 15 Gould’s wild turkeys that were trapped in the Coronado National Forest and then transferred to Gardner Canyon, which has suitable habitat but no wild turkeys.

“Being part of this event and having the honor of releasing the 200,000th bird was exciting,” said Peggy Anne Vallery, chairman of the NWTF’s national board of directors. “But seeing all the young people help release wild turkeys alongside NWTF volunteers and staff, and Arizona Game and Fish staff members - that was the true thrill. Watching these young children open boxes and release wild turkeys, that’s what it is all about. Our youth are the future so having them involved in this historic project was just tremendous.”

Wild turkeys were on the brink of extinction in the early 1900s. Thankfully, efforts by government agencies and the NWTF have enabled the wild turkey population to soar to more than 7 million today, making it the second-most popular game species in the U.S. with more than 2.5 million turkey hunters.

Two critical factors were responsible for much of this success. The first was the creation of propelled nets in the 1950s that allowed wildlife managers to safely trap wild turkeys. However, the recovery of the wild turkey progressed slowly because wildlife managers could not secure enough resources for wide ranging restoration efforts.

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 23

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Fruits, plants, crops and forage grasses with a higher BRIX level will taste better, have a more pleasing aroma and will be healthier than foods with lower BRIX levels. Livestock and wildlife will instinctively seek out forage food with a higher BRIX level. Taste tests by consumers have shown that fruits and vegetables with a higher BRIX level simply taste better.

Dr. Allen Williams, who has been on the Board of Directors for the Association of Family Farmers since 2004 and is currently serving as chairman of the board of that association, recently conducted a yearlong survey test with the TallGrass Beef Company, a Kansas based beef company that markets grass fed and grass finished beef to restaurants and high end supermarkets. Dr. Williams found that with the

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application of Bio Soil’s Sumagrow, the BRIX level of the forage grass rose from an average of “4” to an average of “14”, a significant increase.

“Another benefit to this higher BRIX level was healthier cows. TallGrass saw their veterinary bills drop by $40,000 after they started using the Bio Soil Sumagrow product,” Dr. Allen said. “Cattle weight went up, the cows were healthier and the cows with calves were lactating at a higher rate. Also, the calves were larger and healthier.”

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 25

A Closer Look: Common Eastern Bumble Bee (Bombus impatiens)

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Common Eastern Bumble Bee (Bombus impatiens)

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Photo By April McDonald The role of the bumble bee as a pollinator is common knowledge and rarely disputed. In fact, commercial bumble bees are increasingly becoming a necessity for greenhouse crops due to rapidly changing farming practices. Enlightened farmers recognize the bumble bee as the most efficient pollinator in the bee family and one of our natives, the common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens) has become both the hero and the enemy. Our native species B. impatiens is shipped to European rearing facilities where colonies are produced and shipped back to the United States for commercial pollination of greenhouse operations. There has been a steady decline in the native population of several North American species of bumble bee since the early to mid 1990’s when this practice began and scientists are suspecting the reliance of imports in the agriculture community are a significant factor in the declining population of our native species. Experts hypothesized that the colonies created from our native population acquired diseases from European species such as the buff tailed bumble bee (Bombus terrestris). Any exotic species, not just Bombus terrestris poses a significant threat to native populations of insects as well as crops. We are exporting our native species to another country, only to have it imported back into the United States with the potential of returning with an exotic disease. With a closer look at our native species, we can understand its needs, preserve native populations, and eliminate the expense of importing what is naturally abundant at home.

Bumble bees are the most important pollinator in our agriculture industry. According to some sources, the estimated value of pollination from wild insects, such as bees, is three billion dollars per year. Of the insects that provide pollination services, the bumble bee is the most effective because of its biological characteristics. The hairs that grow on a bumble bee are structured like a feather rather than a single shaft of hair, this structure enables the bumble bee to hold more pollen that a honey bee. In addition, bumble bees can regulate their body temperature and pollinate in the wintertime when other pollinators are incapable of flight. Honey bees stop flying at 50°, bumble bees can fly in temperatures as low as 41°. Bumble bees have the ability to shiver to regulate body temperature.

Rain and wind that would force wasps and honey bees to their

26 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

nests do not deter the bumble bee. Crops such as eggplant, blueberries, and tomatoes are difficult to pollinate without the bumblebee. The bumble bee is one of the few species capable of pollinating such crops because of its Sonication ability, also known as buzz pollination. Sonication is the process of using sound energy to stir or disrupt particles. Modern technology uses sonication for ultrasonic cleaning, and breaking apart DNA molecules.

The bumble bee loosens the pollen with sonication by grabbing the flower with its legs and increasing the rate of its wingbeat.

The queen creates wax pots for honey and lays her eggs on a ball of pollen then covers it with wax. Positioning the pollen ball near the honey pot, she can feed while brooding. Like birds, she warms her eggs by laying on them and shivering, generating enough heat to keep the eggs temperature at 86 °. To maintain her energy she must forage from thousands of flowers per day, each trip causes the eggs to cool, endangering them.

To survive, this species needs a habitat that can offer continuous bloom from April to November. It is critical that flowers are abundant and close enough for short trips from her eggs. At the end of the summer, the only bees that survive are the queens that have mated and find somewhere safe to overwinter.

The seasonal process for this species will begin this month with the surviving mated queens emerging from their overwintering site to collect pollen and nectar and begin nesting. Monoculture farming practices have become a greater threat than the exotic diseases introduced into the United States. Such farming practices have reduced the floral diversity that our most important pollinators need to thrive.

Bordering your crops with native flowering plants will keep bumble bees working your fields all season. The queen will look for a soft, protected site to build a nest, preferably in abandoned rodent burrows, but will also nest in hollow trees, compost piles, or any concealed dry cavity near the ground, boxes can be constructed to suffice. The most important feature is a continuous food source. If there are flowering plants year-long within a short flight to her young, the opportunistic bumble bee will become a yearly companion.

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A & R Farm and Garden..................................................25 B & B Distribution............................................................ 9 Ben Shemper & Sons........................................................23 Boot Country..................................................................32 Farm Depot...................................................................... 7 Front Porch Restaurant.....................................................27 Fulmer General Store.......................................................15 Graceland of Purvis.........................................................13 Havard Pest Control.........................................................29 Hub City West Farm & Graden......................................... 8 Jason Custom Logging.....................................................19 Lane’s Dozer Service........................................................11 Leaf River Sports.............................................................17 Lenny’s Sub Shop.............................................................21 Lil Tire Shop...................................................................27 Marsh Works...................................................................13 Mauldin Company........................................................... 2 Movie Star Restaurant.....................................................19 Randy Thomley................................................................ 3 Register Metals, LLC........................................................ 5 Rodgers Family Pharmacy................................................25 Smith’s Speed Shop..........................................................29 Turner Brothers Taxidermy............................................... 6 Water Flo Productions......................................................23

C3 Manufacturer & Dealer FFL Licensed Firearms Dealer

New & Used Handguns

• Long Guns • Silencers • Machine guns

1185 Rockhill Brooklyn Rd. Purvis, MS 39475 Michael R. Smith Owner

601-794-2855 Cell 601-550-8888

Shop

lotzofguns@hughes.net Please check out our online store at:

www.smithsspeedshop.com 28 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

March 2011

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60 1-583-4451 8 0 0-8 98-02 64 March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 29

2011 Beekeeping Workshops

STATE OF MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND COMMERCE • BUREAU OF PLANT INDUSTRY LESTER SPELL, JR., D.V.M., COMMISSIONER BUTCH ALPE, DIRECTOR When: Where: April 7 Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum, Jackson May 13-14 Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum, Jackson June 3-4 Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Experiment Station, Verona June 16-17 Marion County Activities Center, Columbia

The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) has announced the dates of upcoming workshops that will recruit, educate, and increase participation for new beekeepers in Mississippi.

Honey bees in the wild and in commercial hives make an important contribution to Mississippi agriculture through the pollination of various crops and plants valued at over $300 million annually. Populations of wild honey bees in the state have been declining in recent years due to parasitic mites, other insect pests, and diseases. Growing participation in beekeeping has the potential to increase the number of bees available to pollinate plants and crops.

Workshops will be divided into morning and afternoon sessions beginning with lectures and concluding with field exercises. Lectures will cover topics such as how to begin beekeeping, bee biology, queen management, disease and parasite control, quality honey production, and colony management. Field exercises will allow for hands-on work in hives. Registration fees do apply and pre-registration is recommended.

Interested beginning beekeepers may be eligible to receive assistance under a block grant program provided by MDAC. Approved beekeepers must purchase and establish honey bees in two hives and agree to attend a workshop to be eligible for a $180 reimbursement. Funding will be available to 100 approved applicants.

For more information and to obtain a workshop registration form or application for assistance, contact Harry Fulton at the Bureau of Plant Industry at (662) 325-3390 or Harry@mdac.state.ms.us.

2011 Charity Runs Deep Among Champion Buyers

By Linda Breazeale MSU Ag Communications

John Lundy (back left) and Eric Clark (back right) along with First South Farm Credit, Wilson’s Meat House, Cecil Harper, Kipp Brown and Jim Newsome purchased a Champion Durac Hog from Tanner Ainsworth (front left) and Cory Ainsworth (front right) at the 2011 Dixie National Sale of Junior Champions. The buyers donated the meat to the Leroy Shook family.

(Photo by MSU Ag Communications/Scott Corey)

30 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

Buyers braved the elements to support young livestock exhibitors and several charity organizations at the Dixie National Sale of Junior Champions on Feb. 10.

Snow, ice and bitter cold temperatures often occur the day of this annual event. Fortunately, those conditions are less common than the generous donors, who come every February to the event on the Thursday after the junior livestock shows conclude.

Total sales for this year’s 43 market animals exceeded a quarter of a million dollars.

This figure included $92,554 for the steers, $84,347 for the hogs, $55,112 for the lambs and $25,150 for the goats. 4-H and FFA exhibitors receive money for their animals, but several charities benefit from the animals as well.

“Buyers often donate the animals they purchase to charities that can use the meat, such as Jackson’s Stewpot or private children’s homes,” said Dean Jousan, Mississippi State University 4-H livestock specialist.

This year, some buyers made a special gesture to support a family with ties to the 4-H livestock projects. They donated the meat from an animal to Elwanda Shook, a longtime office manager for the shows and the Sale of Champions, whose husband passed away on Feb. 6. Sale organizers also dedicated the 2011 sale to the Leroy Shook family.

“Livestock shows and projects are family events, both literally and figuratively. Each family feels a personal connection with everyone involved in the shows -- including the Extension agents and others who work the shows,” Jousan said.

2011 buyer Kipp Brown has been involved in the program for most of the sale’s 42-year history. He and other buyers combined their efforts to purchase a champion animal again this year.

“When Leroy became terminally ill, neighbors helped him sell his dairy cattle. We heard the neighbors would not take money for their efforts, and some buyers thought the meat from a sale animal would be a way we could help the Shook family thank them,” Brown said.

That thoughtful attitude is what charities appreciate.

Rory Lee, executive director of The Baptist Children’s Village in Clinton, said the donations of meat from the Dixie National Sale of Junior Champions mean a great deal to his organization each year.

“The meat is divided among our seven campuses throughout the state and provides nourishing meals for the children in our care,” Lee said. “The donations are also meaningful because the animals were raised by youngsters who learned a great deal in the process and because the donors who purchased the animals were thinking of ways to help our children as well as those who raised the animals.”

Jousan said the sale has generated in excess of $4.5 million since the first sale in 1970, which included 22 champions that sold for a total of $7,621.

“It takes a lot of hard work, time and family resources to make it to the Sale of Champions,” Jousan said. “The Sales of Champions committee also has worked hard to make scholarships available for exhibitors whose animals did not qualify for the sale.”

Since 1993, more than $400,000 has been awarded in scholarships. This year, five premier exhibitors in beef, dairy, goats, sheep and swine received $2,000 each, 25 exhibitors who were graduating seniors in high school received $1,500 each, and three exhibitors of supreme animals received $1,000 each.

March 2011

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C L A S S I F I E D S Purvis Flow e r Shop, 401 Mississippi Avenue, Purvis, Mississippi 39475, Phone: 601-794-8280.

CubCadet LTX1040 Lawn Tractor w/19hp Kohler engine and 42”Deck $1399.

Call 601-268-2647.

Cub Cadet I1050 zero turn mower w/25 hp kohler engine and 50” deck $2599.

Call 601-268-2647 ANGUS BULL FOR SALE Lane Smith, Purvis, MS Call 601-606-7859 ANGUS HEIFERS Angus Heifers for sale Lane Smith, Purvis, MS Call 601-606-7859

For Sale By Owner, 127 acre pine plantation, included with property is a very well maintained 2002 3 bedroom 2 bath double wide mobile home and a newly constructed 30’ by 50’ metal barn.

Property is located at 214 Deavers Road five miles southeast of downtown Purvis. $3600 per acre.

Please call 601-818-5211

Bio Enhancers Sumagrow is a con-

centrated microbiological formula that helps lawns, forage grasses, feed lots, ornamentals, and crops process the natural nutrients found in the soil and in the air. Healthier, stronger root balls with much less use of artificial fertilizer are found in plants where Sumagrow was used. 20% better yield with amazing cost savings because less artificial fertilizer is needed! Sumagrow is healthier for ponds, lakes and waterways because artificial nitrogen is not needed when Sumagrow is used.

Cost per gallon is $49.95, and a gallon will

SOMETHING NEW TO SINK YOUR TEETH INTO

treat a full acre for an entire growing season. We will ship the product directly to you.

For more information about Bio Enhancers Discover paradise! Only one hour north Sumagrow please call 601-582-4000. of Hattiesburg. Lake Eddins is a 700 acre gated lake community. Lake front lots and lake front For Sale: Registered Red Brangus homes available at reasonable prices. Please heifers and bulls. Please call Dr. Richard Gingles, DVM at 228-863-8490 call 601-917-2781 for more information.

Bad Boy ZT50/60 zero turn mower w/27 Kohler engine and either 50 or 60” Deck. $4999.

Call 601-268-2647

Metal Buildings and barns.

Cut out the middle man! We are the manufacturer and the contractor. Check our prices and save money. 228-678-0971.

BadBoy MZ48 zero turn mower w/26hp engine and 48”fabricated deck. $3499.

Call 601-268-2647.

Need a nice car and you need to make payments?

Auto financing available with approved credit and a reasonable down payment. Please call Jason @

Landau BT206LX Pontoon Boat with 60 HP

Pioneer horse drawn buggies and

Yamaha and Trailer. Great for fishing or cruising. Four captain’s chairs, sink and two live wells. $8000, please call 601-917-2781

PETAL 3 / 2, single carport, built in 2004. $114,000 LEFAN REALTY CO., LLC ANNITA 601-408-5360

InTheField Magazine is accepting resumes for Sales Account Executives. Flexible hours and great compensation package.

Please mail resume to PO Box 5377, Plant City FL 33563-0042, call 813-759-6909 or email info@inthefieldmagazine.com

601-582-2002. equipment. We carry new and used buggies and other horse drawn equipment.

601-964-8222.

MOSELLE - FIXER UPPER 3/2, den, 3 ac. mol. $89,900 LEFAN REALTY CO., LLC ANNITA 601-408-5360 2007 Harley Davidson Dyna Glide Street bob, Cobalt Blue on 368 miles. Excellent Condition. Extras added!!!

Ready to Ride $11,000 Serious Inquiries Only (813) 659-3402

Call today for advertising rates and watch your business grow.

®

“Covering What’s Growing” Now Covering Mississippi

25 words $25.00 813.759.6909 www.inthefieldmagazine.com

®

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info@inthefieldmagazine.com www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

March 2011

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 31

Good Luck to all the local 4-H show participants this month

On Hwy 49 one mile South of Interstate 59 on the right

Boot Country

Carries a FULL line of Fire Resistant Jackets, Jeans, Shirts, Coveralls, Overalls and Headwear

601-336-5494

6467 Hwy 49 • Hattiesburg, MS 39401 32 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE March 2011 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com www.bootcountryms.com