In The Field magazine Polk

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From the Editor Contents

I

t’s here once again!

April is National Gardening Month!

So get out and get your hands dirty. It’s good for your health, nutrition and helps make our country a little “greener.”

VOL. 6 • ISSUE 8

Cover Story Page 24

Mark your calendars!

The ninth annual Florida Agriculture Literacy Day is Tuesday, May 1. Those involved in the agriculture industry are encouraged to read Florida Agriculture in the Classroom’s newest book to elementary students. For more information on the event visit www.agtag.org.

Another important date to note is Mother’s Day! No gift to your mother can ever equal her gift to you – life.

(Anonymous) On this day we honor our mothers with breakfast in bed and crayon scribbled I love you’s. Not to mention great dinners! We should celebrate our mothers every day, but especially on Mother’s Day, May 13.

It seems that we always involve food in celebrations.

Remember when shopping for your table to buy Fresh From Florida. You will be buying fresh, wholesome, delicious food from local people that you can trust.

Business Up Front / Jack-Of-All-Trades . . Page 10 Majesty of the Palm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12 Putname Welcomes Legoland . . . . . . . . . Page 17 Grub Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 18 Rocking Chair Chatter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 22 Polk FFA Students Know Dirt . . . . . . . . . Page 31 Polk Sheriff “Illegal Tire Dumping” . . . . . Page 38 Inspiring Future Generations . . . . . . . . . . Page 41

As always, a big thank you to our advertisers. You allow us to continue to cover what is growing. When you are out shopping for Mother’s Day, or any day, let our advertisers know you appreciate them!

Philanthropy At Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 43

Until Next Month,

No Fluff About This Young Lady . . . . . . Page 52

Sarah

The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you.

Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 50

PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHY Karen Berry EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Al Berry SENIOR MANAGING EDITOR/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Sarah Holt EDITOR Patsy Berry OFFICE MANAGER Bob Hughens

SALES MANAGER Danny Crampton SALES Al Berry Tina Richmond Danny Crampton Amie Facente CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mona Jackson PHOTOGRAPHY Karen Berry Al Berry Stephanie Humphrey

STAFF WRITERS Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankwoiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Libby Hopkins CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Woody Gore Les McDowell STAFF - INTERN Amanda Furmage

In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Polk County businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of the Polk County Cattlemen’s Association & Florida Citrus Mutual.

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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Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In The Field magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc. Published by Berry Publications, Inc. W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

GM IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH FARM BUREAU速 TO BRING YOU THIS VALUABLE OFFER1.

Farm Bureau members can get a $5001 private offer toward the purchase or lease of most new GM vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD lineup. Visit fbverify.com for more details. They get tough jobs done with a maximum payload of up to 6,635 lbs.2 and a conventional towing capacity of up to 17,000 lbs.3 And through the GM Business Choice Program4, business owners receive even more when purchasing or leasing an eligible Chevrolet or GMC truck or van for business use. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com for details.

1Offer valid toward the purchase of new 2011 and 2012 Buick, Chevrolet and GMC models, excluding Chevrolet Volt.

2Requires Regular Cab model and gas engine. Maximum payload capacity includes weight of driver, passengers, optional equipment and cargo.

3Requires available 6.6L Duramax速 diesel engine. Maximum trailer ratings assume a properly-equipped base vehicle plus drive. See dealer for details.

4To qualify, vehicles must be used in the day-to-day operation of the business and not solely for transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. This program may not be compatible with other offers or incentive programs. Consult your local Chevrolet or GMC dealer or visit gmbusinesschoice.com for program compatibility and other restrictions. Take delivery by 9/30/2012.

Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau Federation速 are registered service marks owned by the American Farm Bureau Federation, and are used herein (or by GM) under license. 息2011 General Motors LLC

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After a very busy couple of months, Spring has brought a slower pace to our activities.

Several Directors attended the FFA's Beast Feast at the Leadership Training Center on Lake Pierce. The annual fundraiser helps support the activities of this association.

Many individuals supported this event with their time and spirited bidding on items in the silent auction and latter in a conventional auction. Many businesses supported this portion of the program with their donation of auction items. Some good natured competition ensued in the bidding as attendees sought to stake their claim on their favorite item.

The event lives up to its name, as it is certainly a Feast with all the food items presented for the enjoyment of those attending. If you haven't attended before, look for the event next year.

It is a relaxing way to spend a day on the shore of Lake Pierce, enjoy great food and visit with friends, while supporting an excellent organization.

Charles Clark Charles Clark Polk County Cattlemen’s Association President

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POLK COUNTY

CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION • Blueberry juice will boost your memory.

• If Antarcticaʼs ice sheets melted, the

• Japan is the largest exporter of

• The percentage of Africa that is wilder

• The first breakfast cereal produced

• One cubic mile of seawater contains

• White wine gets darker as it ages while red wine gets lighter. frog legs.

• Ice cream is Chinese food. was Shredded Wheat.

• The number one selling snack in the US is potato chips.

• Watermelons can cost up to $100 in Japan.

• To burn off one plain M&M candy,

you will have to walk the full length of a football field.

• There is more real lemon juice in

Lemon Pledge furniture polish than in Country Time Lemonade.

• There are no hog lips or snouts in Spam.

• The water of the Antarctica is so cold that nothing can rot there.

• The earthquake of December 16, 1811 caused parts of the Mississippi river to flow backwards.

worldʼs oceans would rise by 200 to 210 feet all over the world.

ness is 28%. The percentage of North America that is wilderness is 38%. about 50 pounds of gold.

• Israelʼs Dead Sea is 1,312 feet below sea level.

• Even Antarctica has an area code.

Itʼs 672.

• Europe is the only continent without a desert.

• The ʻKing Ranchʼ in Texas is bigger than the state of Rhode Island.

• Dirty snow melts faster than clean snow.

• Oak trees are struck by lightning more than any other tree.

P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831-9005 OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS President - Charles Clark (863) 412-8349 cclark@expoco.com Vice President - Dave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 cattlemanslivetock@earthlink.net Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch (863) 425-1121 jbunch@agriumretail.com Al Bellotto - (863) 581-5515 Ray Clark - (863) 683-8196 rclark@tampabay.rr.com L.B. Flanders, DVM - (863) 644-5974 Dewey Fussell - (863) 984-3782 Mike Fussell - (863) 698-8314 fussell.flafarm@verizon.net David McCullers - (863) 528-1195

• Scientists have calculated that the

Moby Persing - (863) 528-4379

• The average speed of a raindrop is

J.B. Wynn - (863) 581-3255 jbwynn29@gmail.com

Earth sees about 760 thunderstorms every hour.

17 miles per hour.

Ned Waters - (863) 698-1597 watersn@doacs.state.fl.us

Alternate - Howard Yates 2501 Arbuckle Lane Frostproof, FL 33843-9647 Standing Committee Chairs: Membership - J.B. Wynn Events - Kevin Fussell (863) 412-5876 Rodeo - Fred Waters (863) 559-7808 watersf@doacs.state.fl.us Cattlewomen - President Sherry Kitchen (863) 221-0230 skitchen@bcieng.com Extension - Bridget Carlisle (863) 519-8677 bccarlis@ufl.edu Sheriff’s Dept. - Sgt. Howard Martin

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Index of Advertisers Pathway BioLogic..................................19 Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers..............53

Peachee Construction ............................44

Alvin Futch............................................42

Florida Mineral, Salt & Agricultural Products, Inc......................35

Arrington Body Shop, Inc......................23

Florida’s Natural Growers. ....................11

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association ......7

Carlton & Carlton, PA ..........................51

Fred’s Market ........................................44

Polk Equine .............................................8

Cecil Breeding Farms .............................56

Groover Exterminating, Inc. ..................48

Precision Safe & Lock ...........................44

Chemical Containers .............................47

Grove Equipment Service.......................11

Red Rose Inn & Suites ..........................28

Circle “R” .............................................21

Helena Chemical-Tampa........................32

Rhino Linings ........................................51

Circle Bar J Feed & Tack.......................47

High Yield Industries.............................48

Ring Power Corporation .......................27

Cresent Jewelers ....................................11

Hinton Farms Produce, Inc....................33

Roadrunner Veterinary Clinic................53

Day Dream Spa & Body Shope .............51

International Market World ..................45

Savich & Lee / Stalnaker .......................49

Discount Metals ....................................32

Keel & Curley .........................................3

Southeastern Septic, LLC.......................40

Ellison RBM Inc. .....................................8

Key Plex ..................................................2

Southwestern Produce ...........................55

Fancy Farms ..........................................27

Lay’s Western Wear & Feed...................48

Spurlow’s Outdoor Outfitters ..................8

Farm Credit ...........................................26

Lightsey Cattle Co. ................................50

Stingray Chevrolet ...................................5

Fields Equipment Co. Inc. .....................45

Mosaic...................................................40

The Bug Man.........................................23

Florida Farm & Ranch Supply ..............50

Parkesdale Farms.....................................9

Wishnatzki Farms ..................................23

Dag’burnit...

We gooffed!

The phone number printed in the March edition of Grub Station highlighting the Butterfly Bistro listed the incorrect phone number.

Plant Food Systems................................39

The correct number is 863-940-4730.

You Too, Can Be A Winner

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 number of the page which you found the logo and where on that page 8

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

you located the logo to:

InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377 Plant City, FL 33566-0042

Winners will be notified by phone.

You Too Can Be A Winner!

Search for the logo below and enter now!

MARCH 2012

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Business Up-Front Peachee Construction JACK-OF-ALL-TRADES

Duane Peachee

By Ginny Mink

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he instability of the economy is having a massive effect on businesses in every arena. This is particularly true with regards to those who are employed and sustained by the world of construction. Not only are people less likely to spend money on newly built homes, businesses are less likely to spend money on making repairs on their existing buildings. The bottom-line here is that everyone is feeling the squeeze, no one is exempt.

Duane Peachee, owner of Peachee Construction, knows this situation quite well. He says, “We started out small and have grown for 14 years. Recently the struggles have been overwhelming. The competition is really fierce and the bidding opportunities are decreased due to the economy. We do a lot of city work, but their budgets are down, everybody’s feeling the squeeze of the economy. Things that they’d usually get repaired they’re waiting and waiting until they fail. They’re prolonging the inevitable and then once it fails it’s an emergency. People that are that cash-strapped aren’t worried about repairing things now and if they are, they’re trying to fix things themselves and that’s fine, but the quality isn’t as good as if we did it.” No doubt since we have been inundated with DIY shows and magazines and websites as people struggle to save a buck.

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Duane is no stranger to agriculture, even though his main focus these days revolves around commercial construction. “I grew up on about 60 acres of property. We were in the citrus and cattle business as a kid.

We had about 30 acres of orange grove and 30 acres of pasture. I think my dad had the first beefalos in the state of Florida, a hybrid offspring of American cattle and bison, which is buffalo. I was raised on that property and as kids we INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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were always busy doing agricultural related chores. If we weren’t in the grove doing maintenance on the trees we were building fence or taking care of the cattle. There was always something to do,” he explains.

welder. We do anything, somebody has a door that’s wore out, or wants a new one put in, we come in and take care of it.”

One could ascertain that Peachee Construction is a Jack-of-All-Trades.

After high school, Duane went to work for his father, who was a general contractor.

“Then I left his business and went to work for another general contractor here in town, in Lakeland, and in 1997 I just started to separate and started my own business.” Thus, the birth of Peachee Construction. He explains, “We’re focused on the industrial/commercial, non-residential work. We don’t do too much agricultural work and we’re trying to target that market. Metal buildings and concrete work are our specialty and we see them used a lot. We did a big job for Florida Fertilizer down in Wauchula and that was a storage building for bulk fertilizer.”

When things slow down in any business, it is always in an owner’s best interest to branch out, and that’s what Duane and Peachee Construction have done.

Perhaps one of the best things about being in the construction business is getting the opportunity to work for high end clientele.

Peachee Construction is no stranger to such things. In fact, they have built hangars for Lakeland Linder Regional Airport and Leesburg Corporate Hangars.

These buildings are valued at well over half a million dollars. In addition to the airports, they built the Shoot Straight Lakeland indoor gun range and the Seminole County Fire Training Tower.

They have done a number of additions as well, to include those at the Lakeland Public Library (a children’s room expansion), Heath Funeral Chapel (a reception addition), and the Carpenters Home Manor (an addition to the assisted living facility). Just to add one more, they renovated dorm rooms and offices at Saint Leo University. It appears that nothing is too big or too small for these talented builders.

Though metal buildings and concrete work comprise the majority of Peachee’s contracts, Duane says, “There isn’t a limit on what we do: concrete work, additions, new buildings, renovations. We do a lot of maintenance-type work, which is something a lot of contractors won’t do because it’s small jobs. But we’ve got a lot of clients that we do that for and we’re looking to expand that, a bunch of $500 jobs over the year add up. We’re looking for more customers to do the maintenance for.

Somebody breaks a concrete slab and needs it replaced, or they have plumbing issues that require concrete removal and replacement, we’ll hire a plumber and then we’ll do the concrete. We have a certified

Peachee Construction’s advertising pamphlet says that they pride themselves in “building on satisfaction.” It backs this statement by adding, “Throughout Central Florida, Peachee Construction is synonymous with professionalism and integrity. Word of mouth referrals and repeat business from our customers can attest to this fact.”

So, if you are in need of a metal building, concrete work, or anything else construction or maintenance based, get in touch with Duane Peachee at (863) 687-2730.

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Tampa Bay’s Fishing Report

Boat Trailer Lighting & Fishing

by Captain Woody Gore light source with advantages over traditional lighting. Some of these advantages include longer life, improved brightness, smaller size, lower amperage draw, and instant-on capability.

BOAT TRAILER LIGHTING

B

oat trailer lights are critical and underdiscussed components that seem to fail at the most inconvenient times. Don't risk getting a ticket or in an accident because you neglected your boat trailer's lighting.

LED TRAILER LIGHTS Better, Brighter and Longer Lasting

W Most light fittings are vehicle types with incandescent lamps. They are easily flooded and waterlogged, which results in burnouts and failure. Moisture is the enemy of all electrical systems and connections. Water, especially saltwater, quickly and easily corrodes electrical connectors, which wreaks havoc on lighting systems.

Recently, improvements to lighting components have resulted in waterproof fixtures that virtually eliminate water intrusion. Most of these new components utilize the innovative LED lights instead of incandescent bulbs.

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hat is an LED? As lighting technology improves, almost everyone has seen or will see this small bright light. Actually they are an electronic light source created from a light-emitting-diode, and so the name LED. Invented in the early 20th century and introduced as a practical electronic component in 1962 these early devices emitted a lowintensity red light, but modern LED’s are now available across the color spectrum and capable of producing a very high brilliance.

Applications of LED’s are widely diverse often used as new equipment or as lowenergy replacements for traditional lighting.

Without getting into how they’re actually manufactured, let’s say it’s simple but complex. Although small, they produce a bright

To work properly in the marine environment, LED’s are hermetically sealed for protection against the environment and other corrosive elements. To ensure long life, the most reliable sealing method is encapsulating the circuit board and LED diodes in a material that is impervious to outside industrial, road and marine environments.

The most common application for LEDs in the boating industry is trailer lighting.

However, boat manufacturers around the world are quickly jumping on the LED band wagon. Primarily because of improved intensity, color combinations and low operating amperage draws.

Boat and utility trailers for example, take a tremendous amount of abuse. They are continually exposed to elements including fresh and salt water, rough roads and rougher boat ramps. Therefore, to produce a long-life light source like LEDs, means that greater care must be taken during their design and manu-

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facture. While this translates to a higher principal cost, it also means lower replacement costs over the life of the trailer. With some research you can find an excellent LED trailer lighting kit priced somewhere between $50 and $75 dollars.

On a personal note, and because I trailer my rig over 200 days each year, at night and in heavy stop and go traffic, I need a dependable trailer, so last year I replaced my old trailer with one made in Plant City. Rolls Axle has been around for years and in my opinion builds one of the premier trailers on the market. So if you are looking at purchasing a new boat and trailer or replacing an old trailer give Dan Gallagher a call at 1-888ROLLS-52. Because of the new LED waterproof lighting they installed on my new trailer, I have a new comfort level that the added brightness, especially in stop and go traffic, makes it easier for the vehicles behind me to see the brighter lights.

I’ve had an awesome last three months catching nice spotted sea trout using shrimp and artificial lures. It’s always nice not having to throw the net for awhile. We had some really great days with trout measuring in the low to mid 20” range along with a few nice redfish, pompano and large breeder sheepshead.

Coming in April, snook can be found around docks, bridges, mangrove islands, oyster bars or any other ambush spot. You often hear me talk about topwater action. Well this is a great month to get a topwater lure punched out of the water by a big snook. It’s also a great time to fish docks and bridge fenders at night. Any good-lipped lure tossed at a lighted structure and ripped through the light line will produce everything from snook, redfish, trout to the occasional grouper.

“Let’s Go Fishing”

I

’ ve had a tremendous winter catching fish, quality fish the whole time. Now that spring is around the corner the fish are eating like there’s no tomorrow. Even the live bait is showing up quicker this year than last.

Overall, things are shaping up nicely for April.

Expect the trout fishing on any grass flat to be strong through the rest of the summer. Jigs with a plastic tails or shrimp, free-lined or under a popping cork, will do the trick. And don’t be surprised if you pull up a nice pom-

pano off some of the sandy flats edges or in the beach surf.

Redfish are a staple of the area and you can expect to catch plenty from now right through the summer. Live baits or artificial, it’s all fun tussling with these fighting dynamos. Targeting areas along the flats, edges of breaks and oyster bars should produce some nice fish.

Snapper, sharks, mackerel, and bluefish should begin showing during the month of April, especially when the large schools of threadfins show up.

Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing 813-477-3817 If you want to catch fish, have a memorable adventure or perhaps learning some new fishing tips give me a call. I also specialize in group or multi-boat charters. Tell me what you need and leave the rest to me. Fishing Florida for over 50 years I offer professionally guided fishing and teaching charters around Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Bradenton, Sarasota, and Tarpon Springs. If you’re interested in booking a trip, please visit www.CaptainWoodyGore.com send me an email at wgore@ix.netcom.com or call me at: 813-477-3814.

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“Pick Them, Drink Them, and Eat Them at the Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival”

F

lorida currently ranks as the fifth largest wine producing state in the U.S. and one of the largest wineries in Florida is located right here in Plant City.

Keel and Curley Winery, and their source of delicious blueberries, Keel Farms, will celebrate the end of the blueberry harvest and the beginning of the U-pick and wine season with their 5th annual Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival on May 5 and 6.

going on now, sponsored by Stingray Chevrolet, that includes such large acts as Jazz group Spyro Gyra on April 21 and Bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys on May 19. You can also find live local music at the winery every Friday night and the first Saturday night of every month.

The Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival is a great family event for low cost entertainment and memories. The festival will take place May 5 and 6 with gates open 8 am-6 pm Saturday and 10 am to 6 pm on Sunday. Admission is free but there is a $5 charge for parking.

Many attractions including the kid’s area and live music are also free with plenty of crafts, activities, drinks, and food for sale. •

The last two years attendance at the festival has topped 5,000 over the two days. The shear numbers of blueberry and blueberry wine seekers have even forced the Winery to lease a lot nearby for parking this year.

Located on Thonotosassa Road, off I-4 exit 17, Keel and Curley Winery will host over 45 vendors, three restaurants, a free large kid’s area, live music, and even an antique tractor display. Best of all, admission is free.

Live music will feature local bands like Charlie O and the House Rockers and Faces South Band.

There will be blueberry shortcake, blueberry sauces, wine freezes, and lots of blueberry wine available. Patrons can U-pick blueberries while they last on the farms 20+ acres for $3 a pound.

Since the 1990s, Florida’s Blueberry industry has exploded to nearly 4000 acres statewide and tens of millions of pounds of blueberries picked each year. Keel and Curley Winery, which makes award-winning wine with surplus berries, has become one of the largest producers of blueberry wine in the nation.

They also produce a line of other fruit wines such as strawberry, mango, key lime, and tangerine.

“We are now carried in over 1,000 stores throughout the state and produce about 400,000 bottles of wine annually,” says the farm and winery owner Joe Keel. Keel and Curley wine can be found year round in Publix, Albertson’s, ABC Wine and Spirits, Total Wine and More, as well as many smaller stores and some Costco and Wal-Mart locations.

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At the Bartow Municipal Airport

by Cheryl Kuck

T

he skies from Orlando to Plant City were buzzing with swarms of airplanes and helicopters during the Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In. Hangar and off-runway parking spaces were at a premium everywhere.

Close to Lakeland’s Linder Airport and Sun ‘n Fun air-show activities, the Bartow Municipal Airport & Industrial Park off of U.S. Highway 17 was one of the busiest locations during the event, which ended the first of April.

Receiving major renovations of $539,545 due to the government “stimulus” American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, coupled with the work of the Airport Authority and an additional grant award from the Office of The Honorable Mel Martinez, United States Senator, the aging former U.S. Army Airfield built during WWII has received a visitor friendly face-lift.

Runway 9/27 Air Base Bistro is the sparkling new restaurant with runway views and a spacious verandah located in the airport terminal building. Its aviation theme accents the history of the original

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Bartow Air Base (a major training center during and after WWII until the base closed in 1961) and compliments an on-site museum.

The wind beneath the wings of the 9/27 bistro are Bartow restaurateurs Becky and Tony Grainger. As owners and proprietors of the award-winning Stanford Inn, a Four Star rated bed and breakfast in the historical section of Bartow, they bring the high standards of excellence for which they are known to the more casual bistro venue. *A review of the Inn was published in the March 2011 Polk County edition of In The Field Magazine. To read the review, go to: www.InTheFieldMagazine.com The Grainger’s knew that locals, as well as visitors flying in from the north would be looking for that famous Florida sunshine and southern-style cooking. They did not have to look far for a master chef and restaurant manager since he is married to Lisa, the Stanford Inn’s innovative chef.

“I went from the cradle to cooking. As a young kid I would memorize all the recipes in a cook book, reading each one from cover to cover, like most people would

read a novel,” says Bistro Chef Russell.

Born in the South (his mother was a sharecropper’s daughter) with Mexican and Irish heritage, he believes, “With that kind of background, there’s nothing I can’t cook.”

After completing culinary school in Kentucky, Russell’s first job was as a Sous Chef at JR’s Steakhouse in Lakeland.

Since then he has worked in Hollywood, California near Studio City, catering for the big movie companies Disney, MGM, and Warner Brothers. Then travelling the world by railroad for five years as the head chef for the Ringling Brothers Circus where their restaurant is always open 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week. Part of his contract was to be able to cook one ethnic meal a month representative of the native country of every nationality employed by Ringling. That taste of home (if only monthly), apparently, helped folks to be less homesick and better employees.

“Those were all great experiences but after awhile you get burned-out and want to stay in one place. I was ready to settle so after we married, my wife got the job as head chef at the Stanford and I was given

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the opportunity to start the Runway 9/27. We’re blessed. It’s a lot like being restaurant owners without the overhead,” he said.

“I do everything including windows,” joked Russell. He also created the Runway’s varied and interesting menu in a mere 22 days. Included in his “Top Gun” all day breakfast are specialties named after hero’s of aviation who took their basic pilot training at the Bartow Air Base Garner Aviation Service that graduated more than 8,000 pilots. Some of the trainee’s like “Buzz” Aldrin, Ed White and “Bo” Bobko became famous astronauts.

The Bistro’s food should be regarded as mostly Southern, but with a twist.

For example, in Italy, the dish would be called Chicken Saltimbocca with the breasts stuffed with slices of prosciutto ham and Provolone cheese and then braised in white wine.

Here, chicken is stuffed with thinly sliced American-style pork from the loin or leg and layered with Gouda cheese, then southern-fried and served with a dried tomato cream sauce over whole wheat pasta.

All meats are hand-cut and fire-grilled with lots of tender-loving care. Creating juicy and tender steaks, no matter how thin the cut.

A fan of Goddard Produce in Lakeland and the Plant City Farmers Market, the chef goes to the extreme of personally picking out every single tomato, and other produce such as sweet potatoes that are freshly prepared daily to order. A Grub Station tip...The Bistro has the best sweet potato fries you’ll find anywhere.

One of the dishes guaranteed to never be found elsewhere is a Chef Russell original recipe, sugar cane skewered shrimp on whole wheat angel hair pasta with roasted red pepper marinara. The sugar cane caramelizes, flavoring the shrimp during cooking.

Another favorite is the Friday night special when an all-youcan-eat bucket of boiled or cold peel-and-eat shrimp are served with red potatoes, corn and smoked sausage for $24.95 per couple or two guests.

On Saturday nights you can be treated to entertainment while digging into the all-you-can-eat Alaskan King Crab and salad bar for $25 per person.

Chef Russell’s motto is, “If you go home hungry…it’s not my fault.”

Location: The Terminal at the Bartow Airport, 400 Bartow Municipal Airport (off US Hwy 17) Phone: (863) 288∙8418 Hours: Sunday - Wednesday / 7am - 3pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday / 7am - 9pm *Breakfast is served all day *Dinners served from 5pm - 9pm Website: www.runway927.net or www.bartow-airport.com/runway927.html 20

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Perhaps the twelfth son of a Chinese Presbyterian minister from Hong Kong, Lin Yutang, a noted writer and academic, had the best understanding of our need and passion for good food when he wrote, “Our lives are not in the lap of the gods, but in the lap of our cooks. •

Frequent flyers gourmet fast food, Southern cooking and more. A new venture by award-winning 4-Star Bartow Stanford Inn owners.

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“Nope, they had lockjaw, but on the way home I stopped by old Bull Browns roadside vegetable stand just off of Owl Town road and bought a mess of collards for supper.”

It reminded me of my mother who would come up with some of the best southern slang ever. Two of her favorites were have’n’ a “hissie fit” and a “conniption.” For the life of me till this day I haven’t been able to determine the difference between the two.

You have to love the Southerners. They can show or point out to you the general direction of “over yonder.” Only a Southerner knows exactly how long “directly” is, like, “Going to town, be back directly.”

Even at two years old a baby knows that “Gimme some sugar” is not asking for that granular sweet stuff that you put in tea. Every Southerner knows when “by and by” is!

You’ll find Southerners are the most gracious people in the world!

They love their neighbors, and think nothing of taking over a plate of fried chicken and a bowl of potato salad when there’s a crisis in their family.

Southerners know the difference between “right near,” and “a fer piece down the road.” But you must remember when they say “jus’ down the’ road” it can be one to five miles.

We Southerners know grits come from corn, and you don’t pour milk over them. We love tomatoes with eggs, bacon, grits and coffee.

It is the next best thing to gourmet dining. We also know fried green tomatoes are not something you eat for breakfast.

A

number of months back I ended this column stating that I would write about the Hole-in-the Wall restaurant located on the square across from the historic courthouse in Blairsville, Georgia. This restaurant opened back in the early 1930s, and has had several names and owners since then. In addition to housing the Trailways Bus Station, it also served as a dentist office twice a year when Doc McDonald made his rounds.

You could eat lunch, and get a tooth pulled all in one sitting.

In 2006 Chef Mark Cox and Loretta Durden took over the restaurant. Mark told me the first priority was to remodel because the foundation was sinking on one side, and the building was leaning.

Rather than put money in a new fancy restaurant sign he and the boys painted one at home and put the money saved into the remodeling. Some say this is the most photographed sign in north Georgia.

If you are really a true Southerner you’ll say “sweet milk” and “sweet tea.” Sweet milk means you don’t want buttermilk.

A true southern gentleman is a man that will never scream obscenities at little old ladies who drive 25 mph on the interstate. You just say, “Bless her heart,” and smile when you pass her.

If any of you Southerners are embarrassed by being from the south, don’t leave. Just take in two tent revivals, have some biscuits, homemade sausage and gravy for breakfast, sit on your front porch in your rocking chair and wave at the neighbors as they pass by. Bless your heart!

To those of you who are still having a hard time understanding all this southern stuff, bless your heart darlin’. I hear they are fixin‘ to My wife and I had lunch there a few months back. Patsy had liver have classes on southern as a second language. and onions and will tell you today it was the best she has ever had.

I tried their hamburger steak, mashed potatoes, gravy and home Relax, and buy a sign and hang it on your front porch that reads: made biscuits. Mighty good! It reminded me of what my mother “I ain’t from the South, but I got here as fast as I could.” would cook on a Saturday night before “Your Hit Parade” came on the radio.

Some say that Southerners are smarter than northerners. For example, one morning three Georgia boys and three Yankees were in a We sat across from some locals who were talking about fishing at ticket line in Macon heading to Athens for a big football game. The Lake Chatuge. What caught my ear was not about their trip, but three Northerners each bought a ticket and watched as the three the language they used. There was no doubt they were pure Southerners bought only one ticket. “How are the three of you going Georgia, and die-hard Southerners. to travel on one ticket?’ asked one of the Yankees. “Watch and learn” answered one of the boys from the South.

“Well Lawd have mercy, I do declare,” said the old fella with overalls and a worn out Georgia Bulldog cap. “I ain’t never had a bet- When the six travelers boarded the train, the three Yankees sat ter time sit’n’ on the bank with a cane pole and a can of worms down, but the three Southerners crammed into a bathroom together fish’n for catfish.” and closed the door.

“Did you catch any?” asked his buddy.

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Shortly after the train departed, the conductor came around to collect tickets. He knocked on the bathroom door and said, “Ticket please.” The door opened just a crack and a single arm emerged with a ticket in hand. The Conductor took it and moved on.

The Yankees saw this happen and agreed it was quite a clever idea. They decided to do the same thing on the return trip and save some money.

That evening after the game when they got to the train station, they bought one ticket for the return trip while to their astonishment the three Southerners did not buy a ticket. “How do you plan to travel without a ticket?” asked one of the Yankees.

“Watch and learn,” answered on of the Southern boys.

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When they boarded the train the three Northerners crammed themselves into a bathroom and the three Southerners crammed themselves into the bathroom across the aisle.

Shortly after the train began to move, one of the Southerners left their bathroom and walked quietly over to the Yankee’s bathroom. He knocked on the door and said, “Ticket please.”

Sometimes I wonder how the Yankee’s won the war.

In closing all I can say is, “Bless your heart, ya’ll have a blessed day. I’m over-yonder now, a rite fer piece from here, but I’m a-fixin’ to be there directly, and I’ll bring a mess of greens and chitlins….so, all-ya’ll behave and have a good day, ya’ hear.

Well, I do declare! And do stop in some time at the “Hole in the Wall’ restaurant in Blairsville, Georgia for the best food north of “Miss Pitty Pat’s Porch” restaurant in Atlanta. •

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Photos shown here courtesy of Fantasy of Flight

By Ginny Mink

O

range groves in Florida are suffering greatly from a series of maladies that seem unconquerable.

This is very heart wrenching to all those who have invested their lives in the citrus industry. In fact, Florida has a very rich and long history when it comes to those deeply loved and deliciously healthy fruits.

Patrick Malcolm reports in his, History of Citrus, that there is recorded evidence that citrus trees were well established in Saint Augustine, Florida around 1565. He informs readers that A.L. Duncan identified the first edible grapefruit variety (Duncan grapefruit), planted a seedling in Florida in 1892, and the tree is supposedly still alive today! Initially, Florida dominated the citrus industry, but freezes occurring in 1894 and 1899 were hugely devastating.1 It took 14 years for Florida to regain its production success and by that time California had surpassed it. Thusly, the Florida citrus industry moved further south and was then able to gain rapid momentum. According to Herbert John Webber, by 1924-25, Florida was producing 20 million boxes in comparison to California’s 24 million.2

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The industry has come a long way since then. However, in recent years citrus growers have seen some serious catastrophes.

Some of these are economically based, as reported by Greg Allen in his January 2011 article, Abandoned Citrus Groves Produce Problems in Fla. He states that Florida is a national leader in citrus production, yet in the past few years landowners have given up on 100,000+ acres of citrus groves finding that they are costing them more money than they are worth.

This is a problem, he says, because the abandoned groves are, “breeding grounds for pests and diseases.” He writes that these issues have been very hard to control and have thereby helped push many growers out of business. He reiterates that the growing number of abandoned groves is only intensifying the problem because insects from the infected trees are migrating to healthy groves nearby.3 The USDA reports that Florida’s citrus industry accounts for two-thirds of the US citrus production but has been on the decline. It implies that the $9 billion industry’s problem is related to citrus greening, which first appeared in the state in 2005.

In the 2009-10 season Florida produced 133.6 million boxes of fruit as compared to the previous year when production topped out at 162.5 million.4 Since citrus is not native to North America, neither are the diseases and pests that plague it. Citrus greening, also known as Huanglongbing or yellow dragon disease, is a disease at the top of the problem list. It is thought to have originated in China in the early 1900s. Bob Adair of the Florida Research Center for Agricultural Sustainability, when speaking about this issue says, “We took it away from its natural enemies and what we’re seeing right now is [that] all the natural enemies of citrus have found it here in Florida.”3 This hugely problematic, and oft times completely debilitating, citrus disease is spread by insects called psyllids.5 The first citrus psyllid in Florida was discovered on the east coast in 1998, but by September of 2000 those wretched creatures had spread to 31 Florida counties. The psyllids lay their eggs on growing shoots and unfurling leaves. They are often confused with aphids and should be identified by a taxonomist. They suck the sap out of the

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foliage and transmit the organisms that cause greening. Infected trees will show stunted growth, off-season bloom and their fruit and leaves will drop off. The fruit is usually small and often lop-sided, hard and not very juicy.

This epidemic has instituted a quarantine of the entire state (there are several other states on this list too).6 In the seventeenth century, educated citrus growers would resort to superstitious methodologies when attempting to battle diseases in their groves. In fact, it’s reported that they’d bury a dead dog at the roots of the infected trees.2 Certainly much progress has been made since that time. However, not a lot of it has been any more effective than the dead dog trick. In fact, the most recommended remedy is tree removal because, as of yet, no cure has been found for the disease. Sadly, trees infected by greening usually die within 3-5 years after infection and while they are alive they produce fruit that is unsuitable for sale.5 Given the vast numbers of citrus growers getting out of the industry, it seems imperative that some light be shed on the issue. Surely there’s something that can be done to stall, if not wholly eliminate, the problem. Too much is riding on rectification for growers to give up.

Florida farmers are not the “call-it-quits” type.

With that said, let us explore some potential hope. Workers in India, in the 70s, reported that some chemicals were effective. They injected trees with tetracycline antibiotics. In addition, citrus psyllids do have some natural enemies, syrphids, chrysopids, several types of parasitic wasps and at least 12 species of coccinellids. Florida has intentionally introduced one specific parasitic wasp as a means of challenging the infestation of citrus psyllids.6 No doubt the introduction of more non-native species can be slightly off-putting, if not hugely bothersome. What other options are there then?

This is where Maury Boyd, a citrus grower, steps into the picture. He has come up with a “nutrient cocktail” that is showing some interesting results. According to The Grower, his cocktail appears to improve an infected tree’s vascular system as well as rejuvenate it. Bob Rouse, an associate horticulture professor at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center in Immokalee, has been conducting research on the topic for three years and has seen that Boyd’s blend helps counteract the effects of greening. Apparently, Boyd’s concoction enables the trees to produce new nutrientcarrying vascular tissue, phloem. He’s using macronutrients on the ground and micronutrients via foliar applications, along with a strong psyllid management program on his own grove. 7 W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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Foliar nutrient application has been utilized for over 200 years.

The concept is that the non-root parts of a plant, a citrus tree in this case, can absorb nutrients from sprays and other applications. Interest in this methodology has increased significantly since the 1950s. The greatest advantage is that the nutrients are absorbed much more rapidly and effectively as compared to soil applications.7 Rouse’s study showed that a balanced program of ground and foliar nutrient application was recommended. He suggests that at least one of the micronutrients should be in the phosphite form because that enhances fruit yield. Further research is being done on the subject and results should be out soon. 7 There are several companies that provide foliar nutrient products: www.best-organic-fertilizer.com, www.gardenerstoolbox.com and http://plantfoodsystems.com, just to name a few.

We spoke with Larry Bridge of Plant Food Systems, who relayed a success story about a Polk County citrus grower. Larry said, “He noticed greening three years ago but was in denial. His Hamlin’s shed leaves and had some moderate fruit drop in September. His weakest grapefruit trees defoliated and produced golf-ball sized fruit and then a year ago his sunburst tangerines experienced a heavy drop. He realized, finally, that this was going to have some seriously detrimental effects on his family’s primary business. So, he increased the amount of calcium nitrate in his dry fertilizer mix, increased the amount of foliar nutrients and sprayed more often. The increased combined nutritional and psyllid sprays, added to a dry fertilizer, has created an amazing recovery in his grove.” This supports the findings of Maury Boyd and Bob Rouse. Perhaps other citrus growers will take this information and attempt their own trials. It seems that if the USDA’s only recommendation is to remove the trees, extra attempts at recovery can’t hurt anything. • 1

History of Citrus – By: Patrick Malcolm, 2006. http://Ezinearticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Malcolm

2

History and Development of the Citrus Industry – By: Herbert John Webber http://websites.lib.ucr.edu/agnic/webber/Vol1/Chapter1.htm 3

Abandoned Citrus Groves Produce Problems in Fla. – By: Greg Allen, January 19, 2011. http://www.npr.org/2011/01/19/133048536/abandoned-orange-grovesproduce-problems-in-florida 4

Florida orange groves still shrinking, USDA says – By: Jane Sutton, September 23, 2010.

http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/09/23/us-usa-oranges-floridaidUSTRE68M5MV20100923 5

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/citrus_greening /index.shtml 6

http://entomology.ifas.ufl.edu/creatures/citrus/acpsyllid.htm

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Fertilization with Foliar Absorbed Nutrients. http://www.griggbros.com/index.php/suportdocumentation/gbtech-bulletins/fertilization-with-foliar-absorbed-nutrients INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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A good meal starts with fresh ingredients and our detailed Chefs’ prepare only the best for our guests when dining.

They cater to their guests in giving them choices, like our Tuesday night Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet, or our 2-for-$25 Menu on Wednesday nights, or for those you want to save and dine early they offer the Early Bird Special on Wednesday and Thursday nights. For many of our guests... it’s more than the food they enjoy – it’s the atmosphere, the music and being with friends and now you can do it all on Friday and Saturday nights in The Red Rose Dining Room!

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Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

1-4 Exit 21 • N. Wheeler St, Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.752.3141

By Keitha Hall Photos by Amie Facente

F

lorida’s FFA Foundation held the 9th annual Beast Feast fundraiser on Saturday, March 31 at the Florida FFA Leadership training center. The event offered numerous food items, including venison, pork, gator, shrimp, fried grouper, turkey, conch fritters, swamp cabbage, low country boil, peanuts, homemade ice cream, key lime pie and many other foods, all prepared and donated by FFA chapters from across the state. While supporters mingled along the lakefront of beautiful Lake Pierce they enjoyed live entertainment and a silent auction. FFA members had the opportunity to visit with corporate sponsors to personally express their gratitude for supporting Florida FFA. Kathleen FFA member Morgan Carlton knows the importance of the support of the Florida FFA Foundation and its sponsors. “Last year I had the opportunity to represent Florida in the National Forestry CDE in Indianapolis. The financial support of the FFA Foundation for the trip allowed us to worry about the Forestry contest itself, instead of stressing over fundraising. It was really great to know that there were so many people rooting for our success.” The Kathleen FFA team finished ninth overall and Morgan Carlton was the third highest student in the nation at the event.

Many Polk FFA chapters were at the Beast Feast, demonstrating their support by providing food items and auction items. The FFA chapters at Kathleen, Bartow and Frostproof

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teamed up to make homemade ice cream for the event. They made flavors ranging from mango and key lime pie to more traditional flavors like vanilla and strawberry. Lake Gibson FFA chapter served fried gator meat while the Lake Gibson Middle, Stambaugh and Westwood FFA chapters provided boiled peanuts. Nothing was left off the menu and that was proven when guests had a taste of Cajun cuisine— jambalaya provided by Roosevelt FFA. Haines City FFA provided homemade mac-n-cheese, while Dundee Ridge FFA entertained the crowd with a friendly game of cow bingo. The day proved to be a smashing success — great food, great entertainment, amazing weather, all on the beautiful FFA Leadership Training Center grounds.

Part of fundraising activities were a silent and live auction with numerous items up for grabs. Auction items included a guided hog hunting trip, fishing poles, handmade quilts, fishing trips, autographed memorabilia and much, much more. Some things that were being auctioned off were many different vacation trips, hunting, fishing, air boating trips, grills, livestock feed, gift cards to nearby stores and restaurants. The FFA Leadership Training center, located at 5000 Fire Tower Road, off Highway 542 - Hatchineha Road, hosts numerous leadership events for Florida FFA members.

The training center is available to businesses to host unforgettable conferences and events. •

FFA

members from across the county gathered in a field on Monday, March 19 to demonstrate their knowledge of soils in the annual Polk FFA Land Judging and Homesite Evaluation contest. The Land Judging event requires students to understand the makeup of soils and how they affect land usage. This event requires students to get a little dirty while thinking analytically. The Polk contest was sponsored by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

The contest requires students to evaluate three soil profiles and one homesite location. On the soil component, students must identify factors such as seasonal high water table, rooting zone, soil permeability, organic content and slope. Using these factors combined students had to classify land into a capability class and a soil order.

Once the soil factors have been identified, students are required make recommendations for vegetative practices, mechanical practices and fertilizer recommendations to improve the site.

The homesite portion of the event requires students to evaluate land conditions to determine its potential to develop.

Students must identify factors in the soil that would affect septic systems, foundations and lawns and shrubs to name a few. This requires students to analyze multiple components based on identified conditions.

This year six high school and four middle school teams competed in the event.

Kathleen High School FFA won the high school division and member Thomas Farris was high individual. Other team members were Lexi Sanchez, Ary Folds and Sadie DeMarato. Frostproof FFA finished in second and third place in the event. Dundee Ridge FFA won the middle school division and Carissa Garrett was the high individual. Team members were Shakayla Grey, Carissa Garrett, Savannah Royal and Will Muscadin. In second place was Frostproof FFA followed by Stambaugh FFA in third place. The winners of both divisions of competition advanced to the State FFA Land Judging contest.

The state event was held Friday March 30 on the Blitchton Plantation in Reddick, FL. At the state event Polk winners would compete against county winners from across the state. The Kathleen FFA and

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Dundee Ridge Middle School FFA worked diligently to learn the soil types and prepare for the conditions they expected to encounter in the hilly landscape in the Ocala area. Both teams represented Polk County exceptionally well. This was the first time the Kathleen group participated at the state level and were ecstatic to learn they placed second in the state and member Thomas Farris was the state high individual in the event. Ms. Hall, the Kathleen FFA Advisor, said “I always knew they had the knowledge to succeed, I was just afraid our inexperience would hurt us.”

With this success, the team won the privilege of competing in the National FFA Land Judging and Homesite Evaluation contest in Oklahoma City, OK on May 13, 2012. The team is working to hone their skills because they know they will encounter different soils at the contest.

When asked about the event, member Thomas Farris said, “This is an opportunity of a lifetime and I will do my best to represent Polk County and Florida well. I never imagined I would be so interested in soils and on my way to compete in a national event. FFA has provided me an amazing experience.”•

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813-752-7088 Website: www.metalsystemsinc.com email: atfabcutting@hotmail.com W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

Naturally Amazing Activities

Hummingbird Feeder

By Sean Green

H

ave you noticed how many animals are attracted to the flowers of springtime? This month we will recycle a drinking bottle and plastic container to create a hummingbird feeder that will not only attract beautiful hummingbirds, but is a fun project with plenty of creative opportunity for those artistically inclined.

Materials: • Storage Container: 20oz soda bottle with cap (empty and clean) • Feeding Container: Small plastic container with lid (cottage cheese or meal worm container) • Cutting tool (to make holes in the caps, Dremel tool suggested) • Hot glue gun and glue • Silk Flowers (optional) • Non-Toxic Paint (optional) Cut a small hole (pencil size) in the center of the 20oz bottle cap. This will allow the nectar to flow into the feeding container.

Cut a hole in the center of the feeding container lid just big enough to fit over the 20oz bottle top.

Create four small holes (pencil size) near the edge of the feeding container lid (This will be the holes the hummingbird feeds from.)

Put the feeder lid over the top of the bottle Secure the feeder lid with the bottle top.

Glue silk flowers around the feeding holes (or paint flowers to attract the hummingbird, (Shades of red works best).

Do not put holes in the feeder supply bottle. Doing so will cause the feeding solution to pour out.

To hang the bottle I use a Jug Sling Knot.

I have included a link to the best You Tube tutorial I could find for the knot itself. http:// www.youtube.com/watch? v=ls5hLxE2MmA

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Once the standard Jug Sling Knot is in place around the top of the bottle, stretch the looped side of the twine crossing it over the top side of the feeder (what was once the bottom of the bottle).

As an alternative to the jug sling knot, you could cut the bottom out of another bottle and glue it to the feeder so it can be hung with twine, wire, or a hook. •

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FAA and NAA to Offer Aquaculture Business Management and Marketing Workshop

T

o help the U.S. aquaculture industry to survive difficult economic times and challenges, the National Aquaculture Association (NAA) has partnered with the Florida Aquaculture Association (FAA) to offer a half-day grower workshop on May 18, at the Marine Science Lab at the USF St. Petersburg campus.

The aquaculture industry has an unprecedented opportunity for growth, but that growth will require that producers be armed with business development skills that can lead to sound management and the development of viable long-term growth strategies.

The National Aquaculture Association is providing expert speakers including Dr. Carole Engle, Professor, Aquaculture Economics and Management, UAPB; Dr. Madan Dey, Professor, Aquaculture Marketing, UAPB, and Linda Odierno, NAA Outreach Specialist.

Dr. Engle will present a simplified system to conduct an annual checkup of financial health. Take home materials, such as a workbook and flash drive with electronic materials, will also be provided. Dr. Engle has worked with more than 100 fish farmers to develop comprehensive financial analyses and business plans. The workshop will also discuss what steps were taken by the catfish farmers who survived these difficult financial times and what the early warning signs were for farms that did not survive.

Dr. Dey will share summaries of trends in prices and quantities sold for the most

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important regional aquaculture products. The trend analysis was developed using retail scanner data from 52 cities across the United States during a seven year period (2005-2011). Individual producers will have the opportunity to request customized reports. Similar customized market intelligence reports can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Competing products will also be discussed.

Linda ODierno will present information on developing new, innovative marketing strategies that can help reduce costs and increase profits for small growers.

E-marketing, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), niche marketing, product branding, exporting, and farmers markets will be discussed.

Organizational structures that include vertical and horizontal integration (producer organizations), contract growing, and multi-level marketing will also be covered. Adding value to Florida aquaculture products, product placement, pricing, and cost-effective distribution schemes will be emphasized.

There is no cost to attend the workshop, but seating is limited.

A pre-registration form is available at www.flaa.org/2012Conference The FAA-NAA workshop is being held in conjunction with the Florida Marine Science Educators Association’s “Going Coastal” 2012 Conference on May 18-20 at the Marine Science Lab at the USF/St. Petersburg Campus.

To register for the FEMSEA Conference go to www.femsea.org W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

Excerpt from

Saw Mill

The 4th Annual

Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference

The Sequel to Wild and Wooley

By Alvin C. Futch

JULY 27-29, 2012 EDUCATING ENTREPRENEURS

TO

STRENGTHEN LOCAL FOOD SYSTEMS

T

he University of Florida’s (UF) Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) and Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Focus Team are pleased to announce that the fourth annual Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference will be held in Kissimmee, Florida July 27-29.

The goal of the annual Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference is to provide farmers with up-to-date, research-based, in-depth educational information. As well, the conference aims to facilitate solutions-based collaboration by encouraging networking and an open dialog among members of Florida’s small farms community. Additionally, the conference is an excellent vehicle for increasing awareness of Florida’s small farms industry, which organizers accomplish by actively marketing to decision makers, supporting institutions and agencies, and other agricultural professionals.

The annual Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference has been successful from its inaugural year, and the majority of attendees and exhibitors return to subsequent conferences. The conference is an outstanding opportunity for Florida’s small farmers to hear noted experts speak about the latest science and research relevant to their industry while networking with other small farmers in a relaxed atmosphere and sampling locally grown foods prepared by Chef Tony Donnelly and his excellent staff. Florida’s small farmers find that, in this forum, their diverse experiences, coupled with their universal challenges (economics, regulatory pressures, marketing, and so forth), create a unique opportunity for collaborative problem solving and

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uck has always been an avid turkey hunter, coming up under the tutelage of his Dad, Mr. Henry Carlton, Sr., and you remember from my first book, cousin Albert Alderman and Cliff Keene. Later in life, Buck began raising Osceola wild turkeys, and turned many loose on various ranches to begin new flocks.

resource sharing. It is also an excellent chance for exhibitors to demonstrate their products and services to some of the most forward-thinking small farmers, educators, and One evening Buck was hunting on Miss Ruby’s land, a researchers in Florida. neighbor whose property joined the 12,000 acre Cone Through six concurrent educational Ranch. Miss Ruby was a friend who had helped raise wild sessions led by farmers, industry turkeys and had quite a number of them on her property. experts and noted researchers, the Buck had put his blind close to the Cone Ranch fence and annual Florida Small Farms and could see out across several hundred acres of improved Alternative Enterprises Conference pasture, with an oak hammock in the near distance. provides opportunities for attendees On his side of the fence was a big weeping oak. He spotto learn about groundbreaking ted some gobblers and hens out on the edge of the oak research and access educational sup- hammock. Buck is a master with turkey calls, so he began port about topics such as operating calling to lure them in, which he and all seasoned turkey sustainable and profitable enterprises, hunters know, is impossible when there are hens around. integrating cost-effective methods to He called for a while to no avail. So not to be outdone, he meet state regulations, and the latest developed a plan. in specialty crop and livestock production methods, as well as natural The next morning before daylight, Buck and his hunting resource conservation, farm biodiver- buddy, Billy, walked the short distance into the blind, which was made of palmetto fronds. It was getting light in sity, and alternative energy. the east as they were getting settled in the blind. They Support in the form of sponsorship, heard gobblers calling a quarter mile north of them, still competitive grants, and in-kind gifts on the roost. They looked at each other and smiled, thinkare critical to the success of the ing the Cone Ranch gobblers had roosted on Ruby’s side Florida Small Farms and Alternative of the fence. Rather than calling the gobblers to them, Enterprises Conference and ensure since they probably had some hens with them and would affordable registration costs to be hard to move, they decided to try getting closer. They Florida’s family farmers year after started creeping along, and then stopped, thinking they year. The University of Florida-IFAS, might be getting close and were about to hunker down.

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical Suddenly Billy looked and saw a turkey out about 30 University, and the Florida years distance. He whispered to Buck, “There his is, Department of Agriculture and shoot!” Buck said, “No, it’s a hen!” About that time ol’ Consumer Services have generously Tom dropped his wings, blowed up and gobbled, at which time he was history. While he was flopping around on the provided support since 2009. ground, Buck looked to see two more gobblers walking off through the palmettos, clucking and looking at what More information on these and other organizations that support this event are had happened to their buddy. Buck and Billy looked at found on the event website, at each other, kind of strange like, when Billy said, “I wonhttp://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/smallfarms der why those two birds didn’t fly back to Cone Ranch?”

Buck slowly said, “Billy, these birds are Ruby’s tame gobFor more information on this year’s blers. I have just killed Ruby’s prized Osceola gobbler.”

Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference, please contact Mandy Stage, Conference Coordinator, or contact Danielle Treadwell, Educational Program Co-Chair, at 352-273-4775 or ddtreadw@ufl.edu.

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Buck didn’t tell me the rest of the story about when he took ol’ Tom back to Ruby, but I can imagine, he had the old bird clean and ready for the oven. • (See page 69 to see where you can pick up or order your copy of Saw Mill by Alvin Futch) INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

APRIL 2012

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Illegal Tire Dumping Is A Serious Crime

by Sheriff Grady Judd

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hroughout the year, Polk County Sheriff’s Environmental Crimes deputies work hand-in-hand with agencies such as the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to investigate cases and make arrests for violations of environmental crimes, such as illegal tire dumping. These crimes are serious – they pose health risks and those who commit these crimes face serious penalties and jail time.

Deputies and agents worked a significant case just last month. On Tuesday, February 21, 2012, two Polk County men were arrested after deputies located over 8,000 tires they had gathered as part of their business and then illegally dumped them in Lake Wales.

The case began earlier that day when PCSO deputies received information that a large amount of tires could be seen from the roadway piled up under a pole barn at a private residence located at 5310 Sand Dollar Road located in Lake Wales Estates, Lake Wales. PCSO Environmental Crimes deputies and agents with FDEP responded to the residence and saw the pole barn, with approximately 7,800 tires piled within, and a semi box trailer parked nearby, containing another 500 tires, apparently waiting to be offloaded.

Deputies interviewed 30-year-old Robert Bickford, who lives at the Sand Dollar Road address, who informed them that his employer, 58-year-old Kenneth M.

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Lowman, of 477 Enclave Place in Lakeland, paid him to let Lowman’s business Greenway Tire dump the tires there.

Lowman’s company, Greenway Tire, located in Lakeland, is only permitted to transport waste tires. The business profits by collecting and removing waste tires from smaller businesses, such as automotive centers. The business is then responsible for transporting the tires to a licensed, permitted waste tire or tire recycling facility.

Instead, Lowman had tractor-trailer loads of tires delivered to Bickford’s property. The property owned by Bickford is not licensed to store or process waste tires. The waste tires deputies found there were within 200 feet of a natural body of water, and less than 500 feet from a potable well. Deputies also found evidence that the tires were being illegally burned on the property.

Lowman was arrested and booked into the Polk County Jail on one felony count of Illegal Dumping. Bickford was arrested and booked into the Polk County Jail on one count each Failure to Obtain Waste Tire Permit, Storage of Waste Tires at a NonPermitted Facility, Open Burning Within 50 Feet of a Residence, Storage of Waste Tires Within 200 Feet of Natural Water, Storage of Waste Tires Within 500 Feet of Potable Water Supply, Burning of Rubber Material, Burning of Prohibited Materials, and Storage of Solid Waste at Unpermitted Facility. Both men were released on bail.

The FDEP has on ongoing investigation in reference to the lack of permits held by the business. The men were given a minimum number of days to properly dispose of the tires, and they did comply. They both face citations associated with this crime.

Illegal tire dumping may not seem like a big deal to the average citizen, however, PCSO deputies work cases nearly every week involving old tires being dumped near potable water sources, or one of Polk County’s many lakes and streams. These waste tires pose a danger to wildlife, natural resources, and humans. Stiff fines are imposed on businesses and suspects who carelessly toss old tires out or store them in unlicensed facilities. Suspects often try being creative – deputies worked two cases recently where tires were illegally left in storage facilities, only discovered when the facility owners hadn’t received the monthly payment for the units.

Illegal dumping of any waste product is a crime, and one in which deputies rely heavily on the public to report. The case illustrated above was brought to our attention by the keen eyes of concerned citizens.

If you see illegally dumped waste products, such as tires, or suspect someone is committing this crime, please call the PCSO Environmental Crimes Unit at 863.534.7205

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Shelby

OESTERREICHER

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his amazing year is quickly approaching an end. From fair to conferences to conventions, our team is living life in the fast lane. The Florida State Fair was two weeks of fair food, members, and fun. From FFA contests to sheep shows we had a blast learning about FFA members and their projects. Personally, I learned how to show goats, dairy cattle, and so much more. The passion these students have for the agriculture industry is absolutely enthralling.

They work so hard to run their own businesses, exhibit their projects, and share their knowledge with others. Their ability to advocate is inspiring to say the least. Working at the state fair was one of the highlights of my year.

Immediately after state fair we had the opportunity to host Sate Leadership Summit (SLS), a conference designed to teach FFA members about the Florida FFA delegate process and to help them to share their opinions about our associations. These leaders also have the ability to submit issues that will better our association. They form committees, develop ideas, and will present them to the delegation at the Florida FFA state convention in June. Having been a part of this process in the past I understand the importance of giving the members a voice in our association. Having the privilege of watching the student leaders of our organization work so hard on an issue they are so passionate about is inspiring. They challenge us to work harder and to be better. SLS was a weekend of action for the future of Florida FFA. I am excited to see the results at convention.

From March 21 through 28, Charlie, James, and I had the opportunity to attend the 84th annual Oregon FFA Convention in Hermiston, Oregon. Through the relationships we have gained through The National FFA Organization we were able to experience a state convention on the other side of our country. While Oregon was cold and wet, we were welcomed with open arms not only by their state staff, but by the members and state officer families. We taught workshops, went to dinner with chapters, and hosted pre-session activities.

Seeing the way another association is run is an eye opening experience.

We had a wonderful time and had a once in a lifetime experience thanks to Oregon FFA. Having the opportunity to experience the landscape of Oregon reassures me of my faith in the Lord. To see such a vast difference in climate, terrain, and people was mesmerizing. The love we felt in the open arms of people we had never met was heart warming and touched me in a way I could have never imagined. On the drive from Portland to Hermiston my jaw dropped when I saw the land change from mountains to valleys to desert. I realized how truly blessed I am to be apart of an organization that has provided me with so many eye opening and life changing experiences. All I can say is from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

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By Libby Hopkins

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elson Mandela once said, “Education is the great engine of personal development. It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that a son of a mineworker can become the head of the mine that a child of farm workers can become the president of a great nation. It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another.” Kimberly Shaske feels the same way about agriculture education.

She is an Agriscience teacher and FFA advisor at Lake Gibson Senior High School in Lakeland. She has been teaching students about agriculture for 16 years, nine of which have been at Lake Gibson. Shaske grew up in Winter Haven. She got her background in agriculture from her parents. “My father always had a vegetable garden and my parents felt the need to teach all of us how to take care of ourselves,” Shaske said. “So they taught us how to cook and can food.” Her family had a 40 acre grove in Polk City, where she and her siblings learned how to care for the grove and even had to pick oranges on occasion. Shaske went to private school, so she didn’t get involved with FFA until she was in college at UF where she was studying to be a veterinarian.

“I got an opportunity to work for as a veterinarian assistant while I was in high school and I liked it, so that’s what brought me to UF.” While she was taking classes at the university, her eyes started to open more to agriculture and all it had to offer. Her professor saw her desire for agriculture, but she was still unsure of what she wanted to do for a career, so he suggested a career in agriculture education.

“I was like, what is that?” Shaske said.

“I ended up getting two degrees, one in mechanized agriculture and the other in agriculture education.”

After doing a teaching internship at Turkey Creek Middle School in Plant City, she became involved with FFA. She found what suited her, which was helping students learn more about agriculture through teaching and FFA. “Being an agriculture teacher, you are a person of many hats, so you get to do a little bit of everything,” Shaske said, “Which is a great opportunity for anyone.”

The FFA program at Lake Gibson started in 1979 and it’s a very strong program.

They’ve had five state officers, numerous proficiency winners, as well as being “Program of the Year,” in past years.

“I have two students who are looking at being state officers and I’m looking forward to that and I’m totally supporting them,” Shaske said. She is very proud of her FFA team and they are developing great leadership skills from what they have learned in FFA. She said they love to compete in the different contests. The livestock team qualified to go to the state livestock competition in April. The FFA program at Lake Gibson also has one of the largest alumni memberships in the state. The alumni are very supportive of the chapter and they have a huge fundraising event every February for the students. The alumni also offer five different scholarships for the students to use toward college or vocational programs. She feels that the school’s agriculture department has so many things to offer students and she firmly believes we all need agriculture to survive.

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“We need agriculture to survive and in order for agriculture to survive, we’ve got to have more people interested and more students getting involved,” Shaske said.

Agriculture needs more educators.

According to the National FFA Organization website, www.ffa.org, “59 percent of qualified agricultural graduates pursue teaching, 35 agriculture programs closed due to the lack of qualified teachers and 365 agriculture teachers teach in more than one school.” The National Teach Ag website, www.naae.org , states that, “It is estimated that there will be hundreds of unfilled positions across the United States this year, simply because not enough students are choosing to be agriculture educators.”

Shaske said she is thrilled that students from the high school are working towards getting their agriculture degrees and agriculture education degrees because there are many empty positions that need to be filled.

“Many teachers are getting ready to retire and we need people to fill those spaces and keep these programs alive,” Shaske said, “We also need to keep the students involved.”

To learn more about the different programs FFA offers, you can visit them on the web at

www.ffa.org Jordan Hollifield; Reporter, Maria Catello; Secretary, and Makayla Goble; Student Advisor.”

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Our tussock moths belong to the genus Orgyia. Overwintering eggs began hatching last month with the spring flushing of the trees. You may have already seen the caterpillars in their feeding stage and by next month adults will begin to emerge for mating.

One of the characteristics of this genus is that the females do not have wings and may not be recognized as a moth at first glance.

Male moths have wings and are usually found resting during the day. At night the male moths take flight, honing in on a pheromone the stationary female releases to attract a mate. After mating, the female lays her eggs marking the end of her life cycle no more than a few days after emerging from the cocoon.

A Closer Look

TUSSOCK MOTH

(Lymantriidae)

By Sean Green Photo Courtesy of April Wietrecki

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pringtime has come again with a colorful explosion of flowers proclaiming a new season of growth. It’s not only our flora that flaunts spectacular colors, but also the parade of insects that accompany it. One of the early arrivers on the spring scene is the tussock moth. This little critter duds itself up in an impressive assortment of colorful hair, properly called setae in the scientific world. In Florida we have three species of tussock moth, a small representation of the Lymantriidae family of moths that consists of some 2,500 known species throughout the world.

This family of moths is well known for its ability to defoliate trees. In fact, the Lymantriidae family includes some of the most destructive pests of forest trees such as the Gypsy Moth (Lymantria dispar) that was introduced to the United States in the late 1800s. Fortunately, the Gypsy Moth has not yet established a population in Florida and the three species we have do not present a significant danger to the oaks they feed on.

Although the caterpillars of the tussock moth are beautiful and look soft and cuddly, they have an effective means of protecting themselves from curious children and predators. Tussock caterpillars are covered with setae, which are a hollow hairlike structure that produce the same effect as the urticating hairs of a stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). When touched, the spines break off into the skin, releasing irritating compounds or cause a physical irritation similar to what you might experience with fiberglass.

The caterpillar does not have to be alive for the setae to cause a reaction and some species even coat the outside of their cocoon with setae to protect them during the pupal stage. There are a few characteristics of each of our three tussock moth species that can help in their identification The Live Oak Tussock Moth (Orgyia detrita) is the most common of our three species of tussock moth and is readily identified by the dark bodies and red head and bright orange tufts along the top and sides. Eggs are deposited in late April and covered with setae for protection. It will be late February or March before the next generation hatches. After hatching, the caterpillars begin chewing the outsides of the leaf. When they get bigger this species characteristically chews holes in the middle of the leaf rather than the edges.

The Whitemarked Tussock Moth (Orgyia leucostigma) looks similar to the Live Oak Tussock Moth but has a lighter body color with a black stripe centered along its top and a yellow stripe on each side. Additionally, it has pale yellow tufts rather than orange. The life cycle of the Whitemark Tussock parallels that of the Live Oak Tussock, however, the eggs are laid on top of her setae covered cocoon and plastered with a white frothy substance that eventually hardens.

The Definite Tussock Moth (Orgyia definite) is a rare find in Florida and more common in the New England states, but is distinguished by its cream colored body and yellow or tan head.

It does not have long pencil like hairs on the tail end or the bright colors that the Live Oak or Whitemarked species display. The cocoon of the Definite Tussock Moth is the biggest giveaway to its identity. Nearly devoid of protective setae, the pupa is easily seen through the cocoon.

These caterpillars can be fun to watch, but can be a nuisance.

I write outdoors frequently and can attest to the challenge of finding a clear spot to settle into when these caterpillars are out in masses. Although they do not harm their preferred forest host trees, they can be windblown and devastate ornamentals or worse harm someone. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a soil-dwelling bacterium occurring in the gut of many moths and butterflies.

In many strains, its spores produce crystal proteins that have insecticidal qualities under the right conditions. Bt can be a successful biologic pesticide in the uncommon event that this moth becomes a pest. •

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By Ginny Mink

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hen I was in middle school, there was a girl who used to walk around in her Ropers and Wranglers always talking about her cow.

We started calling her, “Moo Cow” because we weren’t particularly fond of her and all she would say back to us was, “I love my cow.” No doubt today’s ranchers feel the same way about their businesses, they love them! Cattle ranching is a serious industry in the state of Florida. In fact, it’s been around for five centuries beginning in 1521. The first cattle in the state were brought over by the Spaniards, and Florida has the longest history of cattle ranching in the US. This heritage is significant to ranchers and to the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. Indeed, it is the reason they created the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation.

Jim Strickland is the Chairman of the Board for the Foundation. He explains that the Foundation is “the philanthropic arm of the Cattlemen’s Association.” Jim is a fourth generation cattleman. He says, “I’ve been in the cattle industry since I was a child. I took over the family cattle business when I was 18,” which is when his father died. Jim adds, “I do the agricultural appraisals for Manatee County for ad valorem or taxation purposes. I’ve been a board member of the Manatee County Farm Bureau for, I believe, 22 years. I also sit on the Florida Farm Bureau International Trade Task Force because my wife and I ship all kinds of livestock worldwide.” Jim is a busy man and is actually, “the immediate past President of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association.” Given all his experience, it seems obvious that he is a good choice for Chairman.

The Foundation is an equally busy entity.

It was founded in 1999 and according to the Florida Cattlemen’s Association website, “is dedicated to the preservation of the history, heritage and ideals of the Florida cattle producers. The Foundation promotes a sustainable cattle industry by

building viable programs in scholarship, continuing education, research and leadership development both for the current industry and its leaders and for the future leaders and entrepreneurs to come. The Foundation is committed to creating and maintaining a strong environmental stewardship initiative to better the animals, the land, the water and the air so that the cattle industry might flourish within an environment that is right and prosperous for property owners and all citizens of Florida.” The Foundation is a 501c3 and raises money to promote its cause.

Jim expounds upon some of the Foundation’s accomplishments. “We have a museum exhibit that covers the whole history of the cattle industry. Right now it’s in a museum in West Palm Beach. Half a million people have seen it in the last year and a half. A lot of people want to come. It covers everything, looks like we’re going to get a permanent home. We had a lot of financial help and volunteers for this, a lot of good press, a lot of good media about our museum exhibit.” In fact, there was an article in the Gainesville Sun about it. The article was written by Danielle Hipps and states, “Florida Cattle Ranching: Five Centuries of Tradition,” has toured the state since 2009 and even appeared in Elko, Nevada. Proposed by folklorist Robert Stone and created by a collaboration of supporters, it features artifacts, paintings and photographs that represent the cultural aspects of cattle ranching.”

Of course, the museum exhibit isn’t the only thing on the Foundation’s plate.

“We’re trying to preserve ranching in the state of Florida and it takes money to do things and we realize that. We helped fund the University of Florida’s grad student housing in Marianna to help with the research facility in Marianna. We also funded, with some private ranchers, the grad student housing for UF in Ona, two years ago, two brick and mortars that are

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going to benefit with research. We were proud to be part of it.” College students aren’t the sole beneficiaries of the Foundation. The Foundation provides scholarships and youth programs. They support the FFA and 4H as well as the Junior Florida Cattlemen.

Jim says, “One of our biggest fundraisers is the Ranch Rodeo Finals. The Seminole tribe, re-enactors, and cowboy artists participate in the Heritage Festival that happens at the same time. There are 16 sanctioned rodeos throughout the year and the winner comes to the finals in Kissimmee. They are the best cowboys in the world; these are real cowboys off the ranches in the state of Florida. All proceeds go to the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation.” The website adds that it’s, “an annual event and fundraiser for the Foundation which brings rodeo competition from county and ranch affiliates together with a large festival of Florida ranch traditions from handicrafts to storytelling, to beef cooking, to Seminole Indian exhibits.”

Non-profit organizations like the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation could not function effectively without volunteers. Jim says, “I’m really proud of our Board, 18 people, they’re all volunteers. We’ve got cattle ranchers, five ladies, estate planners, tax attorneys, it’s a real broad base. They are a passionate group about preserving the cattle industry.” Anyone else zealous about cattle and willing to contribute can do so by sending donations to: Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation, Inc. P.O. Box 421929 Kissimmee, FL 34742-1929, or by calling 407-846-6221.

Help the cattle ranchers, “find ways to contribute to the future success and longevity of their hard-earned industry,”

www.floridacattlemen.org

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20ga ...........$11600 20ga .............$2150 20ga .............$3100 20ga .............$4100 20ga .............$5100 20ga .............$6100

WIRE FENCE

1047-330’ Field Fence 14ga CL3.............$115.00 1047-330’ Field Fence 12½ga CL1............139.00 1047-330’ Field Fence 12½ga CL3 LOW CARBON ............$139.00 1047-330’ Field Fence 12½ga CL3 HIGH TENSILE ............$155.00 Barb Wire 15½ CL3 Gauge .......................$35.00 Barb Wire 12½ GA CL3 ............................$65.00 Barb Wire 15½ GA 3” spacing .................$49.00 100’x4’ CL3 no climb horse wire ............$125.00 100’x5’ CL3 no climb horse wire ............$149.00 200’x4’ CL1 no climb horse wire ............$199.00 200’x4’ CL3 no climb horse wire ............$229.00 100’x4’ CL1 4 X 4 goat wire ....................$75.00 330’x4’ CL1 4 X 4 goat wire ..................$239.00 5’x16’ Horse Panel 6GA 2x4....................$59.00 50”x16’ 10 Line Panel 4GA .....................$22.00 39” Field Fence 12½ga 330’...................$112.00 Barbless Wire 12½ga 1320’.....................$54.00 Barbless Wire 14ga 1320’ ........................$35.00 Smooth Wire 9ga 140’ .............................$11.95 Smooth Wire 12½ga 210’ ........................$12.50 Fence Stays 100 pair 42” ........................$46.00 Staples 1¼-1½-1¾ 50# ............................$49.00

BLACK POWDER COATED GATES

IDEAL FOR HORSES & SMALL ANIMALS 4’ Black Powder Coated 2x4 Mesh ...........$75.00 6’ Black Powder Coated 2x4 Mesh ...........$89.00 8’ Black Powder Coated 2x4 Mesh .........$114.00 10’ Black Powder Coated 2x4 Mesh .......$129.00 POTABLE WATER TANKS CHAIN LINK GATES 12’ Black Powder Coated 2x4 Mesh .......$143.00 4’ x 20’ 1 5/8” Tube Welded .........................$229.00 275 Gallon w/ Metal Cage ......$75.00 - $125.00 14’ Black Powder Coated 2x4 Mesh .......$169.00 ROLL GATE PARTS 6’ x 16’ 1 5/8” Tube Welded .........................$296.00 16’ Black Powder Coated 2x4 Mesh .......$179.00 6’ x 18’ 1 5/8” Tube Welded .........................$331.00 5” Steel Rear Track Wheel ........................$12.50 6’ x 20’ 1 5/8” Tube Welded .........................$349.00 Universal Line track Bracket .......................$8.50 PIPE GATES 2” DIAMETER Clamp-On Roller Bracket.............................$5.95 12’ Galvanized Hvy Duty/16 ga.............$119.00 Double Trolley Wheels 6”x6” ...................$34.95 16’ Galvanized Hvy Duty/16 ga.............$148.00 CHAIN LINK FENCE PARTS 1 5/8” Loop Caps ................................................$.95 Double Trolley Wheels 6”x12” .................$39.95 100’ HARDWARE CLOTH 1” Loop Caps .....................................................$1.35 Air Type Trolley Wheels 10”x12”..............$59.00 24” 36” 48” No Flat Trolley Wheels 10”x12” ...............$79.00 2½” Loop Caps ..................................................$1.95 ¼ x ¼ 23ga .....$57.00.......$85.00 .......$112.00 Swing Gate Wheels ..................................$19.95 1 3/8” Rail Ends ..................................................$.95 ½ x ½ 19ga .....$55.00.......$83.00 .......$110.00 GALVANIZED FARM GATES W/HARDWARE 1 5/8” Rail Ends ................................................$1.35 COUPON 2½” 1-way & 2-way Caps.................................$1.95 4’ ...............Pipe $49.00 ................ Mesh $60.00 Horse Fence 200’x4’, Sheep & Goat Fence 1 3/8”, 1 5/8”, 2”, 2½” Tension Bands...............$.60 6’ ...............Pipe $59.00 ................ Mesh $71.00 330’x4’ 1 to 3 rolls - $2.50 off, 1 3/8”, 1 5/8”, 2”, 2½” Brace Bands..................$.60 8’ ...............Pipe $69.00 ................ Mesh $76.00 4 or more - $5 off, 10 piece limit.

4’ Tension Bars ..................................................$2.50 10’ .............Pipe $76.00 ................ Mesh $89.00 5’ Tension Bars ..................................................$2.95 12’ .............Pipe $86.00 ............... Mesh $97.00 Field fence 47” 1-8 - $2.50 off, 6’ Tension Bars ..................................................$3.25 14’ .............Pipe $95.00 .............. Mesh $111.00 9 or more - $5 off, 10 piece limit.

6½” Bag Ties 100ct............................................$4.95 16’ ...........Pipe $105.00 .............. Mesh $120.00 Barbed Wire - 5 or more - $1 off 10 piece limit.

8½”Bag Ties 100ct.............................................$8.95 18’ ...........Pipe $136.00 .............. Mesh $156.00 Pick up ONLY while supplies last.

50’ Razor Wire ................................................$39.00 20’ ...........Pipe $147.00 .............. Mesh $168.00 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE APRIL 2012 49 W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

Recipe from the Polk County Cattlewomenʼs Cook Book -

RECIPES

COUNTRY COOKING CATTLEWOMEN STYLE

PREPARATION Preheat oven to 325°.

Cheeseburger Meatloaf

A Recipe from Cattlewomen - Jessica Lightsey

INGREDIENTS 2 Ibs. Ground beef

In a large mixing bowl combine ground beef, all seasonings, onion, bell pepper, Worcestershire sauce, 1 Cup grated cheddar cheese, sour cream and crackers. Stir until mixed well.

Place 8 to 10 slices of bread in bottom of a loaf pan. Place meat loaf mix in pan on top of bread slices. Bake meat loaf for 45 to 60 minutes.

MEAT LOAF SAUCE

1 tsp. Everglades/Lawry's 2 tsp. House seasoning Seasoning salt 1/2 Med. onion, chopped

Heat Cream of Mushroom soup & milk over medium heat, stir. Add 1 ½ Cups of grated cheddar cheese and stir until melted.

Pour over meat loaf.

8 to 10 slices of bread 1/2 Bell pepper, chopped 1 (10 3/4-oz) can Cream of Mushroom soup 1/4 Cup Worcestershire sauce 1 Cup sour cream 1 Soup can milk 1 Cup crushed Ritz crackers 2 ½ Cups grated cheddar cheese

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OUR SERVICES • Social Security Disability • Supplemental Security Income: Children and Adults • Initial Applications Reconsideration • Hearing with Judge

• Wills • Power of Attorney • Estate Planning • Trusts • Guardianships • Adoptions Charles L. Carlton

Florida Native B.A. University of South Florida J.D. Florida State University Law School

Geraldyne H. Carlton

Florida Native B.A. Georgia State University J.D. Florida State University Law School

2310 Lakeland Hills Blvd.

Lakeland, FL 33805 (1 mile south of I-4, Exit 33 Lakeland - across from Detroit Tigers Baseball Spring Training Stadium)

TOLL FREE 1. 800.315.4590 863. 688.5700 *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 information about their qualifications and experience.

W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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Looking for us?

®

MAGAZINE

Find us in your neighborhood...

Circle R Ranch & Livestock Eq. 16490 U.S. Hwy. 27 Lake Wales, FL Phone: 888.693.4283

Day Dreams Spa Lakeland & Brandon Locations Lakeland Phone: 863.686.5859 Brandon Phone: 813.657.2992

Arrington’s Body Shop, Inc. 301 Sixth St.. S.W. Winter Haven, FL Phone: 863.293.4192

Fields Equipment Company 3203 Havendale Blvd.

Winter Haven, FL Phone: 863.967.0602

Chemical Containers, Inc. 413 ABC Road Lake Wales, FL Phone: 800.346.7867

D

elaney Browning is a junior at Tenoroc High School and is very active in Tenoroc FFA. She currently serves at the FFA Secretary and is an asset to the program.

In her short three years as an FFA member, Delaney has participated in many Career Development Events including Poultry Judging, Ornamental Horticulture Demonstrations, County Greenhand, Dairy Judging, Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Parliamentary Procedure, Forestry, FFA Talent, and Livestock Judging. In fact, Delaney has been on the State-level Livestock Judging Team for two years.

Delaney received her Greenhand and Chapter Degrees, including the Star Greenhand and Star Chapter Farmer Degree for Tenoroc FFA her ninth and tenth grade years, respectively. She will receive her State FFA Degree at the State FFA Convention in June, the highest degree achieved at the state level.

Lay’s Western Wear & Feed, Inc. 5530 Old Hwy. 37 Lakeland, FL Phone: 863.646.1003

Fred’s Southern Kitchen 2120 Harden Blvd.

Lakeland, FL Phone: 863.603.7080 Note: This is just a sample of our distribution points.

We’ll list different locations each month.

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Delaney has attended the Chapter President’s Conference, Chapter Officer Leadership Training, University of Florida’s Livestock Judging Clinic, FFA Day, Forestry Camp, Polk County Ag Tour, Florida FFA State Convention, National FFA Convention, and Tenoroc FFA’s Officer Retreat. She plans to represent Tenoroc FFA at the Washington Leadership Conference in Washington DC this summer. Delaney has also attended HOBY, a nationally recognized leadership conference. Delaney uses

information from leadership workshops to teach other FFA members in her chapter as well as those from Berkley Middle FFA and Stambaugh Middle FFA. She helped coordinate a Leadership Day at the chapter level to encourage members to become active and teach them leadership skills. Delaney is a Banquet Committee Member, heavily involved with Tenoroc FFA’s Farm Fair, and helped to design the FFA float in the 2010 and 2011 Lakeland Christmas Parades.

At the Polk County Youth Fair, Delaney shows rabbits and chickens, in addition to competing in judging contests, the ScrapOff, and the Chili Cook-Off. Delaney was a top five Proficiency winner last year for her SAE, Small Animal Production and Care.

Somehow, Delaney finds time to volunteer with her former middle school’s Robotics team, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, and at FFA events such as Farm Fair, AgriFest, Ag Literacy Day, Wreaths Across America, and building fence at Tenoroc’s agriculture department. She also holds down a job at a local restaurant. Delaney has a very high grade point average and is enrolled in advanced placement classes. She was awarded FFA’s Top Scholar last year, as she was the FFA member with the highest GPA for her grade level.

Delaney is an integral part of Tenoroc FFA and we are excited about what she will accomplish her senior year! Good Luck Delaney! • W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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Classifieds ANIMALS ANIMAL & BIRD CAGES Add living microbes to improve your soil, Equipment serving the fur-bearing and exotic bird industry. Cages built to order.

Wire by roll or foot. 813-752-2230 www.ammermans.com Swap July 15, 2012 and Nov. 25, 2012

BUILDING SUPPLIES DECKING BRDS. & TILL SIDING Call Ted 813-752-3378 DOUBLE INSULATED THERMO PANE Starting at $55. Call Ted 813-752-3378 SURPLUS WINDOWS DOUBLE INSULATED Starting at $55. Call Ted 813-752-3378 MOBILE HOME-SIZED WINDOW SCREENS We make window screens of all sizes available in different frame colors.

Call Ted 813-752-3378 TILL 4 X 8 SHEET B-grade $17.95. Call Ted 813-752-3378 NEW DOORS CLOSEOUT SPECIAL!!! $75 to $295. Call Ted today 813-752-3378 MOBILE HOME TUBS Metal brand new in box 54” Mobile Home Tubs. Call Ted 813-752-3378

COUPONS SAVICH & LEE/STALNAKER Horse Fence 200’x4’, Sheep & Goat Fence 330’x4’ 1 to 3 rolls - $2.50 off, 4 or more $5 off, 10 piece limit. Field fence 47” 1-8 $2.50 off, 9 or more - $5 off, 10 piece limit.

Barbed Wire - 5 or more - $1 off 10 piece limit. Pick up ONLY while supplies last.

See our ad on page 81 for pricing.

EQUINE SERVICES HORSE BOARDING Stalls and individual turnout, lighted arena and round pen. Owners on property. $300 full care. Call 813-610-4416

FARM EQUIPMENT 2008 MASSEY FERGUSON 1533LC, 33hp with loader, cab, ac, 1367hrs. $16,950 Call Alive 813-759-8722 MASSEY FERGUSON 245 Diesel tractor. Good condition. $5,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 KUBOTA L345 TRACTOR 34hp, 2wd. $4,250 Call Alvie (813)759-8722 54

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Tel: 813.759.6909

info@inthefieldmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Sales, account management.

Immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Email your resume to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com

MASSEY FERGUSON TRACTOR 1980 Massey Ferguson 230. 34pto hp, power steering. $4,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 HEAVY DUTY TRAILER 14’ Shop built, heavy duty trailer, 2 axel with ramps. $750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722 MASSEY FERGUSON 255 Grove Tractor with 6’ mower $7,500.

Call Alvie 813-759-8722.

LAWN EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES RUBBER MULCH All colors, buy 10 bags, get 1 FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted 813-752-3378 NEW HUSTLER SPORT ZERO TURN 48" cut, 16hp. Honda engine. Special Price! $3,500 with 3yr. warranty. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

KUBOTA L275 With shuttle shift. Ready to work! $3,500.

Call 813-759-8722

TSG50 WOODS 3pt. stump grinder. Clearance Sale! $3,381. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

NEW HOLLAND TC29 TRACTOR/LOADER 29 pto hp, 268 hrs, $13,000 (UT6406).

Ask for David 813-623-3673

REAL ESTATE

MASSEY FERGUSON 2003 GC2300 4 X 4 hydro stat transmission, 2702 hrs. $5,350 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

LAKE FRONT PROPERTY Wimauma close to Sun City. 8 acres mol. wooded area, pasture, water, horses welcome.

200k obo. Call 813-251-3193

1984 MASSEY FERGUSON 240 tractor, 42 pto hp, 2wd, works great! $5,950. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

BEAUTIFUL PLANT CITY 1 ACRE LOT With well. Private one street subdivision frontage 290 x 145 depth. 4521 Highland Creek Drive. $45,900. Call Today! 813-655-6769

GRAVELY 1740 Zero turn mower 40” cut. $1,650 Call Alvie (813)759-8722 KIOTI DK45S 2007, 234 hrs. like new. 12 forward-12 reverse. Push button 4 wheel drive, power steering, tilt steering wheel, differentia lock, front & rear pto, joystick valve, hand & foot throttle, swing drawbar, adjustable 3-pt hitch, safety lights, flip-up pto guard, telescopic hitch ends & stabilizer, single remote hydraulic valve, rear working lights, safe auto pto switch, safety start switch. Includes bucket, custom built grapple, 3-way box blade, 3pt. boom pole & rotary mower. Always garaged. $25,000. Call soon & take a look.

Ask for Denny 813-503-4592

FOR SALE WESTERN SADDLE FOR SALE Barely used. Saddle, bridle and blanket. $600 or b/o. Call 813-363-5967 TRAILER FOR SALE 44X12 single wide trailer in Winters Mobile Home Park. Zephyrhills 5k or best offer. Call (813)967-4515

JOBS CONTRIBUTING WRITER Write about events in your community.

Immediate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Paid per article. Responsibilities include covering community events and taking pictures. Email your resume to sarah@inthefieldmagazine.com

FOR SALE – 45 ACRES VACANT LAND (Pasco County) 45 acres are comprised of gently rolling hills with big trees & solid ground. A great setting for residential development. To the east of the property is a 60 acre parcel (Lake Gilbert) that adds significant aesthetic value to the 45 acres.

Zoning: AR (Agricultural-Rural) Please call Heidi Cecil for more information 863-899-9620 2.66 ACRE NURSERY FOR SALE OR LEASE N. Lakeland with 1,000 sq ft frame house, 2 sheds, irrigation throughout.

Call Bruce 863-698-0019 BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA MLS#212769 Private home with 3BR, 2.5 baths, unfinished basement, nice kitchen, Sunroom, back deck for cooking out, nestled in the trees, cool enough that there is no AC. Lots of outbuildings. A must see! 2.47 acres wooded, low maintenance. $180,000. Call Jane Baer w/ Jane Baer Realty 1-800-820-7829 BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA MLS#190298 Beautiful RV lot with cement pad, decking includes the 5th wheel. Less than 2 years old!

River’s Edge RV Park offers a large clubhouse, stocked lake for fishing, heated and cooled laundry and shower facilities. $69,000 Call Jane Baer w/ Jane Baer Realty 1-800-820-7829 A SLICE OF HEAVEN 2.03 acres lot on Hare Mtn. Estates in Franklin NC. Breath-taking views. Purchased 10/08 for $73,400. Yours today for $32,900 GREAT INVESTMENT! Call 813-655-6769

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*** All Items Are 8 lbs. Unless Otherwise Noted.*** BEANS & PEAS Fordhooks .........................................$22 Baby Butter Beans..........................$14 Green Beans ......................................$14 Pole Beans .........................................$14 Speckled Butter Beans .................$14 Blackeye Peas ...................................$14 Butter Peas ........................................$14 Conk Peas ........................................$22 Crowder Peas....................................$14 Mixed Peas .........................................$14 Pinkeye Peas .....................................$14 Sugar Snap Peas..............................$15 White Acre Peas ..............................$14 Zipper Peas........................................$14 CORN & GREENS Cream White Corn 4#.....................$6 Cream Yellow Corn 4#....................$6 White Corn.........................................$13 Yellow Corn........................................$13

Collard Greens ..................................$13 Mustard Greens ................................$13 Turnip Greens....................................$13 Spinach................................................$13 OTHER VEGETABLES Breaded Okra....................................$13 Cut Okra..............................................$13 Whole Okra........................................$13 Sliced Yellow Squash .....................$13 Sliced Zucchini .................................$13 Mixed Vegetables ............................$13 Soup Blend.........................................$13 Cauliflower .........................................$13 Broccoli................................................$13 Chopped Broccoli 5# ......................$5 Baby Carrots .....................................$13 Brussel Sprouts ................................$13

Blackberries 5# ................................$15 Cranberries 5# ..................................$15 Mango Chunks 5# ...........................$15 Pineapple Chunks 5# .....................$15 Green Peanuts ..................................$15 PECANS HALVES or PIECES 1 lb bag................................................$10 2.5 lbs bag.........................................$25 5 lbs bag............................................$49 10 lbs bag ..........................................$97

WALK-INS WELCOME Come see us during the sale or Call – or go on-line to place your order today

FRUITS & NUTS Blueberries 5# ..................................$15

W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E . C O M

and we’ll have it ready for you to pick up!

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