In The Field magazine Polk issue

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CONTENTS

JULY 2019 VOL. 12 • ISSUE 11 Polk County Cattlemen’s Association P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL. 33831-9005

Maddie Dvorak Area IV State Vice President, Florida FFA

28 PAGE 10 Hummingbirds

PAGE 31 News Briefs

PAGE 12 Greening

PAGE 32 PCSO PAGE 33 Recipes

PAGE 14 Fishing Hot Spots PAGE 16 Business Up Front

PAGE 34 Economic Analysis

PAGE 18 Beekeeping

PAGE 35 Jack Payne PAGE 36 John Dicks

PAGE 19 Florida State Fair Authority

PAGE 38 Endangered Species

PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter

PAGE 40 Activity

PAGE 24 Invasive Plants

PAGE 41 A Closer Look

PAGE 26 Literary Time Machine

PAGE 42 Pollinator Power

PAGE 30 Monstera Delicioso

PAGE 44

Make Produce Last

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 No Farmers No Food Sticker. 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 the page you located the logo to the address below

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InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377 • Plant City, Fl. 33566-0042 *Winners will be notified by phone. You Too Can Be A Winner!

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President – Carlton Taylor 9875 Hancock Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 858-1771 L2brangus@aol.com Vice President – Ray Clark 4484 Swindell Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 640-0719 rclark@tampabay.rr.com Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch PO Box 849 Highland City, FL 338460849 (863) 425-1121 justin.bunch@cpsagu.com State Director – David McCullers 1000 Hwy 630 W Frostproof, FL 33843 (863) 635-3821 crookedlakeranch57@ gmail.com Donald Conroy 3882 Wolfolk Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 412-0790 Kevin Fussell 4523 Fussell Rd Polk City, FL 33868-9676 (863) 412-5876 Mike Fussell 4520 Barush Rd Bartow, FL 33830-2629 (863) 698-8314 fussell.flafarm@gmail.com Moby Persing 3380 Sam Keen Rd Lake Wales, FL 338989327 (863) 528-4567 Ken Sherrouse 13475 Moore Rd Lakeland, FL 33809-9755 (863) 698-1834 kensherrouse@yahoo.com

Dave Tomkow 3305 US Highway 92 E Lakeland, FL 33801-9623 (863) 665-5088 Dr. Lujean Waters 8750 Shreck Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 537-1495 Lujean.waters@gmail.com Alternate – Standing Committee Chairs: Membership Events- Kevin Fussell Trade Show- Bridget Stice Rodeo- Fred Waters PO Box 463 Alturas, FL 33820-0463 (863) 559-7808 Website – Adam Norman 2115 West Pipkin Rd Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 944-9293 Adamnorman1977@gmail. com Cattlewomen – President, Missy Raney PO Box 453 Homeland, FL 33847 (863) 205-3977 Raney747@gmail.com Extension – Bridget Stice PO Box 9005, Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 519-1048 bccarlis@ufl.edu Sheriff’s Dept. – Sgt. Paul Wright 1891 Jim Keen Blvd.

Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 557-1741 pw5281@polksheriff.org Warner University –

Scott Shoupe 6130 Allen Lane Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 581-7593 Scott_shoupe@hotmail. com WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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Letter from the Editor

Why is it that everyone seems to be in such a hurry? I hope I don’t sound like my grandmother but when I was younger it seemed that people took their time more often. Today people are scurrying to their destination without even noticing the world around them, which makes driving an interesting feat. People walking are frequently rushing while looking down at their phone. You are letting the world pass you by and in doing so you can miss out on so much.

I’ve been guilty of it. But I try to consciously step back and take a look at my surroundings. I get it. Sometimes we are running late. Something happens to set us back and we feel the need to hurry. Does this happen every day? Probably not. So why does everyone seem to be in such a hurry?

I think it is a habit. We are busy, we are rushing to beat deadlines of many kinds and we want to be productive. Do you feel guilty when you slow down? I believe this causes so much anxiety in so many people.

Why not live in the moment. Be conscious of what is going on around you, especially if you are driving on I-4. The world around us is filled with beauty. When you are rushing around, racing the clock so to speak, you miss out on so much. Let’s face it; we really aren’t present when we are in a hurry.

So the next time you’re ready to blowup because of a traffic jam or the waitress is taking too long, or you scheduled your day with so many things that the only down time you get is your limited sleep, remember the roses on the path of life.

STAFF Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Sales Karen Berry Sarah Holt Melissa Nichols

Creative Director/Illustrator Juan Alvarez Photography Karen Berry Melissa Nichols Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Breanne Williams Anita Todd Contributing Writers Woody Gore John Dicks

Slow down and take the time to thank the farmers and ranchers that labored to get your food to you. When they are checking their crops or herds, you can bet they slow down to make sure everything is as it should be at that moment.

Life goes by quickly enough. Let’s not rush it.

Sarah Holt The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25

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 Catllemen’s Association.

Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909 Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by 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.

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Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

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Summer is in full swing and the Florida Cattlemen’s Association just wrapped up the Annual Convention and Tradeshow in beautiful Marco Island. I know many people enjoyed being back in Marco Island. I would like to thank Alex Johns for the tremendous job he did leading the FCA this past year. His #SHOWYOURPASSION campaign engaged many and helped tell our story to the general public.

I would also like to recognize JFCA member Kylee McMullen of Polk City who won Premier Brahman Bull, Premier Brahman Exhibitor and Premier Brahman Breeder for 2018-2019 for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. Kylee also recently won Grand Champion Bred & Owned Bull at the All-American National Jr. Brahman Show in Texarkana.

We look forward to Matt Pearce taking the reins and leading the state association for 2019-2020. Matt is encouraging each and every member to share their story by sharing their heritage. I would also like to take the time and let you know that our Polk County Junior Cattlemen’s Association did an excellent job representing our county in Marco Island. Their hard work paid off and the following teams placed at the State Contests:

Until next time EAT MORE BEEF!

2nd Place Junior Quiz Bowl with members: Jessie Bennett, Payge Dupre, Raelan Sherouse, Carlie Sheffield

Congratulations to all these junior cattlemen for representing Polk County and sharing their heritage and showing their passion for the Beef industry.

Carlton Taylor

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association President

2nd Place Team Marketing with members: Jessie Bennett, Payge Dupre and Carlee Taylor 4th Place Senior Quiz Bowl with members: Jesse Bibby, Peyton Chandley, Taylor Gutman, Charleigh Wood 1st Photography: Carlie Shenefield 1st Photography: Macie Shenefield

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1st Photography: Peyton Chandley

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Kelley Automotive Group

THE 20 BUCK TRUCK IS BACK!

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY TO PURCHASE A TICKET AND SUPPORT THE KIDS IN AGRICULTURE.

20bucktruck.com

We are excited to announce the all NEW 20 Buck Truck. To Benefit the agricultural youth of Polk & Hardee County.

100% of the proceeds go to charity, and that the proceeds will support youth in agriculture in Polk and Hardee counties

"We needed to support our youth in agriculture because they are our future leaders." ~Derrick Kelley Operated by Warrior Beach Retreat, Inc.

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HUMMINGBIRDS IN YOUR GARDEN

Julie Schelb UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program There is nothing more exciting than seeing or hearing that cute little ruby-throated hummingbird in your own garden.

Often they are heard before seen and then quickly flutter away. You too can enjoy the excitement of providing a habitat for hummingbirds in your own landscape. The key to attracting hummingbirds is to know which hummingbirds live in our area, when they are active, and what plants and habitat will make them feel welcome and sustain their needs.

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First, here in Florida, we have three different species that visit the state. The rufous and black-chinned hummingbirds might stop by during the winter. Otherwise, you’re more likely to spot the ruby-throated hummingbird. The ruby-throated hummingbird is most obvious with a red, iridescent color on the neck. These eye-catching hummingbirds with red throats can be seen beginning in March and stick around until September or slightly later. Now you can easily figure out, based on the time of year, which hummingbird has visited your garden.

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Next, in order to sustain hummingbirds near your garden, you will need to provide an ongoing nectar source. The easiest way to do this is by planting a variety of flowering plants that will provide nectar from March through September. Choose flowers that are red, orange, or even pink and tubular shaped.

Some options for plants that will attract hummingbirds include native and Florida-Friendly plants like vining coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), shrubby firebush (Hamelia patens), and reseeding scarlet sage (Salvia coccinea). For more on plants for attracting hummingbirds check out http:// edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_hummingbird_plants.

You may also be considering the addition of a hummingbird feeder to the garden. While hummingbird feeders can help, it is better to provide as many flowers for hummingbirds as a natural source of food. Be sure to mix the sugar solution correctly and change every three to five days to avoid solutions becoming harmful and not be safe for hummingbirds to consume. To read more about hummingbird feeders check out WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/gardeningwith-wildlife/hummingbird-feeders.html

• Hummingbirds of Florida https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/ UW/UW05900.pdf

Finally, make sure you maintain your landscape in a FloridaFriendly way. This includes choosing the right plant for the right place, providing plenty of flowering plants with nectar as a food source throughout the seasons, and managing yard pests responsibly. To learn more about Florida-Friendly Landscaping visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk/gardening-andlandscaping/florida-friendly-landscaping/.

• How to Make Your Garden Hummingbird Friendly http:// blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/highlandsco/2017/06/05/make-gardenhummingbird-friendly/

Enjoy your time in the garden and landscape and hopefully you will be lucky enough to see or hear a hummingbird buzzing around!

Reference

For more information on hummingbirds check out: • Hummingbird Gardens http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl. edu/design/types-of-gardens/hummingbird-gardens.html

Schaefer, Joe, Huegel, Craig N. (2017). Hummingbirds of Florida.

IFAS Publication Number WEC21. Gainesville: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/UW/UW05900.pdf

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• Hummingbird Feeders http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl. edu/design/gardening-with-wildlife/hummingbird-feeders. html

By Brad Buck

UF RESEARCHERS TO STUDY INTEGRATED APPROACHES TO PROTECT YOUNG CITRUS TREES FROM GREENING

While citrus growers continue to look for best management approaches to deal with the deadly greening disease, some scientists at the University of Florida will take an integrated look at how to protect young trees, by using tools growers already can use.

Five scientists from the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences will compare insect management tools, including insect-proof netting. Researchers also will study reflective mulch, kaolin clay and chemical-based insect pest management. Kaolin clay is a powdery white compound used to conceal citrus trees from psyllids by confusing their visual sensory system.

• What kind(s) of pest management challenges does each tool – for example, insect-proof netting -- present?

• Does the use of reflective mulch (plastic ground cover) impact root diseases?

• Do these management tools impact the pathogens that cause the disease known as greasy spot?

• How efficient are these tools at preventing or delaying infection by the bacterium that causes HLB? • How will the use of reflective mulch, exclusion bags and/or kaolin clay alter water and nutritional needs?

“All of these tools are aimed at insect management, but it is unclear how they influence other aspects of grove care, like plant growth rates or water use,” said Lauren Diepenbrock, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of entomology and research project leader.

UF/IFAS researchers have earned a $665,471 U.S. Department of Agriculture grant. The grant draws funding from several sources, including the National Institute of Food and Agriculture -- an arm of the USDA -- and from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and industry groups.

With the funds, they plan to study citrus greening control methods from an integrated perspective.

When they complete their research, the UF/IFAS researchers hope to develop new recommendations for existing tools that growers can use to fight citrus greening, also known as Huanglongbing, or HLB. Until now, researchers have evaluated citrus greening prevention methods by studying how they affected one aspect of production, rather than the entire agricultural operation.

“For Florida growers, we hope these tools can help them be more profitable when planting individual new trees or entirely new groves,” Diepenbrock said. “These plants may eventually become impacted by HLB. But we are learning more about living with HLB from the research being done by UF/IFAS researchers and our colleagues globally. That research may give us new tools to use in the long-term management plan for this field, once this initial project is completed.”

To help growers answer those questions, Diepenbrock will work with Megan Dewdney, a UF/IFAS associate professor of plant pathology; Evan Johnson, a UF/IFAS research assistant scientist in plant pathology; Davie Kadyampakeni, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of soil and water sciences; and Christopher Vincent, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of horticultural sciences. All the researchers are faculty members at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center in Lake Alfred, Florida.

In addition to helping Florida growers, Diepenbrock believes her team’s research results should help scientists around the world.

“For our colleagues in other states who have not been as heavily impacted, we hope that what we learn can be used in their regions to reduce the devastating impacts of this disease,” Diepenbrock said. “And for our colleagues who are in a similar condition of trying to grow citrus in endemic HLB areas, we hope this adds a tool or two for them as well.”

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Right now, the team has far more questions than answers.

Some of them include:

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Greening has spread to 40 countries worldwide. In Florida, citrus production volume declined by 71 percent from 2000 to 2017, primarily due to losses from greening, according to UF/ IFAS economists. The disease entered Florida in 2005.

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Mon. - Sat.: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

813-752-2379

Western & Outdoor Wear, Farm, Ranch & Pet Supplies

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3014 S. Jim Redman Pkwy. (Hwy. 39 S) Plant City, FL • southsidewesternwear.com INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE JULY 2019

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FISHING COURTESY... Two Simple Words Capt. Woody Gore

person, you’re likely to lose yours at one time or another. Even though not deliberately we’ve all done it, take a little too long getting our boat into or out of the water at the boat ramp, or we unintentionally cut someone off crossing the lake, or worse yet we fish a little too close to another angler. And when we do, we get that all too familiar, “hey dude,” with arms in the air shout, “What are you doing!”, Whenever anglers get together, the possibility of sharing fishing and adventure stories results in endless hours of quality companionship often developing into lifelong friendships. However, the pressure to catch fish, along with overcrowding fishing spots, can increase tensions among recreational anglers and sometimes professional guides, undermining what otherwise should be fun fishing. Crowding another angler, mainly when they’re catching fish, is probably the number one source of irritation and arguments. Everyone should realize when you’re heading to a popular fishing area you’re probably not going to be alone, especially on weekends or holidays. But on the other hand, just because you’re fishing near other anglers, you should expect and reciprocate a certain level of courtesy, consideration, and common sense.

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Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)

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It happens, and we all know everyone is guilty! It’s called our tempers, and unless you’re an extremely patient

or verbal exploitation of profanity and every name in the book. And of course, when this occurs, it’s challenging to maintain a non-confrontational attitude when your nine-year daughter and wife are with you.

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However, it’s to your emotional and occasionally physical advantage to ignore further attempts at provocation. In today’s society, you’re never sure of the other person’s mental or emotional capacity. So let them finish their angry outburst, say you’re sorry and continue your day.

Captain Woody Gore’s Guide Service; is the area’s top outdoor fishing guide service. He’s fished and guided Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Bradenton, and Sarasota areas for over fifty years and offers some world-class fishing adventures and memories of a lifetime.

Whenever you engage a confrontational situation here’s what happens; first, you lose your composure, second, you become emotionally involved, and finally, you wind up giving the other person control over your emotions. Whenever actions or tempers intensify, the situation can accelerate into physical conflict. If this happens, no one wins. Remember, “Never give them control.”

Capt. Woody specializes in Single Boat, Multi-Boat and Group Charters. With many years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, He can arrange and coordinate any size group, outing or tournament; tell him what you need, he will get it ready.

Common Sense is what the world refers to as wisdom; it requires little education but does require the ability to think and reason. Common sense, combined with everyday courteousness makes our lives much brighter and more fun. If there is anything in our character worthy of imitation, why not make it “Common Sense and Courtesy.”

“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” 813-477-3814

Captain Woody Gore is the area’s top outdoor fishing guide. Guiding and fishing the west central Florida areas for over fifty years; he offers world class fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories.

Multi-boat Group Charters With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Captain Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Just tell him what you need and it’s done.

Visit his website at: WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com or give me a call at 813-477-3814

We’re Growing the Population of Florida Scrub Jays Our efforts to protect native wildlife species have helped the endangered Florida Scrub Jay population not only survive, but grow. As part of the Mosaic mining process, we designated 850 acres of habitat, and then worked with local environmental experts to relocate Scrub Jays. Now the Scrub Jay population, which had only a five percent survival chance 15 years ago, is once again growing and thriving.

To learn more visit www.MosaicCo.com/Florida

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Business Up Front

By Jim Frankowiak

Alan’s Air Conditioning is celebrating 25 years of air conditioning service to residences, businesses, commercial customers and a host of public and private facilities in the Plant City area and an ever-increasing list of communities in west central Florida. The family-owned business has also welcomed the third generation to its staff.

Founded in 1994 by Alan Lewis and his wife Terry, their son Brian joined the team while a student at Plant City High School. After graduation, Brian studied at Travis Tech and continued his on the job training with his father. He gained a State Contractors certification in 2005 and became the company’s managing officer in 2006.

In 2014 Brian and his wife Tiffany bought the company from Brian’s parents. Alan continues to be involved in the business.

As founder of the company Brian appreciates his dad being around to lend his trade expertise and wisdom to not only him but also to the other 12 employees that make up Alan’s AC. Brian and Tiffany have three children: Joshua, 18; Madelyn, 2 ½ and one-year old Hawke.”I have truly been blessed!” claims Brian when asked about his children. Following in his father’s footsteps, Joshua is the third generation of the Lewis family working in the business.

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“We help our customers repair and maintain existing systems, change out units when needed and cut energy cost with high efficiency products and/or design,” said Brian, who noted Alan’s Air Conditioning is one of the longest tenured American Standard dealers in Florida.

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“We have been installing the American Standard brand for 25 years. In addition to preventative maintenance, repairs and system change-outs, we also offer duct cleaning, fiberglass attic insulation, spray foam insulation and air quality/purification services.

“We can offer our customers the full package. A new high efficiency AC System installed with a new duct system designed for maximum performance, air purification and attic insulation to help bring energy consumption to a minimal level and maximize savings on monthly power bills.”

Customer longevity is a hallmark of Alan’s Air Conditioning. “We are proud to have many long term customers, including a growing number of second generation customers,” noted Brian. “They tell us our service and commitment to making them come first is why they stay with us and recommend us to their friends and family.”

Over the years, Alan’s Air Conditioning has provided service to churches, schools, day care facilities and public structures including the library and local Police and Fire stations. “That leads to referral work since prospective customers conclude our services must be cost-effective while also performing quality workmanship if we are selected to work in those types of places,” he said. “Our service team members know the technical side of our business and perform their job well, but what sets us apart is the attention to customer service and appreciation towards each individual client that our staff shows,” Brian said. “I have to give a lot of the credit to my em-

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Brian and Tiffany Lewis ployees. I shared my vision for Alan’s AC and our future and they have rallied around Tiffany and me to make ideas and dreams reality!”

Brian has come up with several things to help differentiate Alan’s Air Conditioning from others in the business. The most visual is their fleet of service vehicles with a Yeti-Design wrap that was introduced in 2014.When asked why he chose the Yeti Logo Brian claimed with a smile ” Yeti’s are legendary just like our service.” For example, Alan’s Air Conditioning has six portable air condition units, ranging in size from 6,000 to 12,000 BTU’s to help keep customers cool while waiting for an install to be completed or a special order part coming from out of state to be delivered and placed in service. “Hey it’s Florida and brutally hot. You are miserable without the AC so we offer some relief from the heat at no cost as a courtesy to our customers”.

our new system customers belong to our A-List which is our maintenance contract program,” said Brian. “We remind them by phone or email about the need for a maintenance check.”

Alan’s A-List members also enjoy a variety of benefits including discounts throughout the year.

Alan’s AC supports a variety of programs and charities throughout Plant City and the surrounding area. Among them are the Pregnancy Care Center, Hope Children’s Home, Unity in the Community, Hope Bags, Trinity Sportsman’s Ministries and local youth with their steer and swine projects for the Strawberry Festival and Hillsborough County Fair. “My Family has called Plant City Home for many years just like a lot of our customers and it’s awesome to be able to give back to the community,” said Brian. Though Alan’s Air Conditioning began in and still calls Plant City home, customers are now located as far north as Crystal River and east to Lake Wales.

Brian also developed and introduced a maintenance plan with several levels of service offered. “Ninety-two percent of

For more information about Alan’s Air Conditioning, visit:

www.alansairconditioning.com or call 813/752-0821.

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BEEKEEPING

By Anita Todd

When an apiarist, or beekeeper, remembers how they became interested in the profession, the story seems to follow the same line. Once introduced to beekeeping, there was no turning back from honey farming, a practice that is gaining popularity around the country. Local beekeepers agree that it’s something they have loved from the beginning.

Rick Thornton, a Winter Haven resident and Bee Removal Expert, said it took him 23 years to finally act on his love of bees.

“I went on a hive removal 25 years ago and was interested ever since,” he said. He made a promise to himself that he’d become a beekeeper one day and realized after that many years, he’d better get busy.

looking for a new home.

“Tree branches or any hollow structure are favorites of bees.

They love under mobile homes, under sheds and inside walls of old barns and other dilapidated structures. Anywhere there is a cavity that is dark and the bigger the better.” A swarm, the queen and 60 percent of the bees, leave the hive to move to another. “Every bee knows its job,” Thornton said.

They usually become a nuisance when they set up their own homes and Thornton – or another bee remover - is called to relocate them. Dressed in specially made suits and gloves, Thornton uses an infrared heat gun to identify the location of the center of the hive.

It’s a similar story from veteran beekeeper, Bert Kelley.

“I got interested in beekeeping by accident. We were on vacation and stopped by a friend’s house in Jacksonville,” Kelley said. “He had the hobby of beekeeping and loaned me a book. So, later that year when my mother asked me what I wanted for my birthday, I said bees.”

That was 1980, and Kelley has been busy as a bee ever since.

For 12 years, Kelley was a part-time beekeeper while continuing his ownership of an air conditioner service business. Then, in 1992, he sold it and set about continuing to build his bee business.

“I am an avid reader and I read whatever I could get my hands on,” Kelley said. “Everything about bees that came my way.”

Beekeepers learn about the business in various ways, from reading, to the experience of others, to trial and error. Members of the Ridge Beekeepers Association are a way that wannabees – those interested in becoming a beekeeper – learn the ropes.

“The Association is a great way to pick the brains of the guys who know what’s going on,” Thornton said. “The members are always glad to help others.”

Beekeepers must be registered, according to Florida law, with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The registration fee depends on the number of colonies and must be renewed annually. The apiarist must schedule an appointment for the FDACS to inspect honey-bee colonies to certify them as free or substantially free from honey-bee pests of regulatory significance and free from unwanted types of honey bees. The FDACS website, www.freshfromflorida.com is also a good source of information for beekeepers.

Like Kelley, most beekeepers start small with usually just a hive or two. Hives are the stacked boxes with the bottom box being a brooder box and then a queen excluder. The excluder keeps the queen from crawling throughout the entire hive laying eggs. The boxes on top of that are the honey super.

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Bees aren’t always agreeable to remain in the accommodations set up for them by a beekeeper. Other times, the hive may become overcrowded and the bees go out on their own

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“Usually, there is some dismantling of a structure that needs to be done in order to get to the bees,” he said. He uses an adapted shop vacuum to collect the bees into a canister, which can take a while depending on the size of the hive. He then cuts out the comb piece by piece, attaches it to a piece of wood that is then put into one of the boxes. The bees are then secured and transported to a bee yard.

“Hopefully, they like their new home,” he said. Usually, he is only stung when it is necessary for him to lie on the ground to remove the bees. He may accidentally lay on the bees which sting through the suit. Once Thornton moves, the stingers are removed from the skin, as well.

He said that one reason he stayed interested in beekeeping for all those years was because of the importance of the bees in the cycle of life.

Queens can lay up to 2,000 eggs a day and, before long, there can be up to 80,000 bees working for her. In the United States, all those working bees produce 188,000 tons of honey annually, with one bee able to make only a 1/12 of a teaspoon in its life.

Bees are needed to produce much-loved honey and for pollination. From the beginning, local farmers have depended on bees for crop pollination.

For more information on the Ridge Beekeeper’s Association, visit them on Facebook and for bee removal, call Thornton at 863.581.5997.

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Community Leader to Serve on Florida State Fair Authority Board of Directors support will come in many different forms, from helping to uphold the organization’s mission and purpose to providing proper financial oversight and controls to the Authority. Through quarterly board meetings, committee-based action and individualized support, Dicks will help enhance the organization’s public and financial reputations.

Now under the leadership of Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Nicole “Nikki” Fried, the Florida State Fair Authority Board of Directors welcomed several new faces at the June 2019 board meeting. Among those faces was John L. Dicks, II, a new board member appointed by Commissioner Fried.

Dicks is a partner with Akerman, LLP, a law firm with over 700 lawyers in 24 offices around the country. As an experienced litigator, Dicks specializes in several areas of representation including fraud, breaches of contracts and fiduciary duty, commercial and residential landlord/tenant disputes, statutory claims, trust and probate litigation, bankruptcy court and more. Since finishing law school and earning his M.B.A from the University of Florida in 2010, Dicks has defended more than 40 consumer protection statute lawsuits, including the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), and the Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA).

As a board member, Dicks will be charged with helping to determine, monitor and strengthen the organization’s programs and services, including over 150 events hosted year-round at the Florida State Fairgrounds, as well as the annual Florida State Fair which features the nation’s largest midway, over 5,000 animals, fantastic Fair food, shopping, cultural exhibits and thrilling entertainment!

Dicks lives in Tampa with his wife, Lauren and their two daughters, June (3) and Josephine (1). The memories of the fair are present in John’s home. “In our dining room, we have a picture of my great-grandfather showing a steer at the Fair, back when it was held at the University of Tampa. I think he’d be proud to know that I’m serving on the Board,” said Dicks. “I know that my daughters are very excited about riding the Ferris wheel next year. I look forward to continuing the family memories in years to come.”

We are excited to have John L. Dicks, II at the Fair this coming February 6–17, 2020, and look forward to having him on our Board of Directors.

Dicks is not only an accomplished lawyer, but an important community leader as well. When he’s not practicing law, Dicks serves on the Board of Governors for the Florida Bar’s Young Lawyers Division. Super Lawyers Magazine recognized him as a “Rising Star” in Florida for General Litigation.

As a seventh-generation Floridian growing up in Plant City, John’s agriculture roots run deep in his family heritage, particularly in cattle and oranges, which makes him a perfect fit to help guide the fair into the future.

While on the Florida State Fair Authority Board, Dicks will assist 19 other leaders in supporting and overseeing the operations of the Florida State Fair Authority. This INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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Beavers have transparent eyelids so they can see underwater with their eyes shut.

In 2008, Usain Bolt set the 100 meters world record with one shoelace undone.

Two-thirds of the people in the world have never seen snow.

A squirrel can remember the hiding places of up to 10,000 nuts.

Construction on the Pentagon began on September 11, 1941, 60 years to the day before the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

A flea expert is a pullicologist.

Baboons cannot throw overhand.

Vincent van Gogh didn’t begin to draw until he was 27.

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GRITS Last year I went to my wife’s family reunion in Alabama. I decided to do a little “Southern Survey” on grits, since most everyone in attendance were true southerners. I know I have written about “God’s Manna From Heaven” before, but I thought you might be interested in the results of my survey.

My first question was, “What Are Grits?”

John “Greg” Davidson was a walking encyclopedia on grits.

When posed the question he said, “I did an essay in college on the origin of grits. What do you want to know?”

“Well, John” I asked, “If a Yankee asked you what grits were, what would you say?” He replied, “First off, Yankees have attempted to create synthetic grits. They call it ”Cream of Wheat.” The main ingredient, as far as I can tell, is Elmer’s Glue mixed with shredded Styrofoam.”

I asked Jerry Davidson, Patsy’s uncle, “When they ask how grits are formed, what do you tell them?”

“No problem, I just tell them grits are formed deep and underground with intense heat and pressure much like a volcano.

Then I give them the full story! I tell them it takes more than a thousand years to form a single Grit. Most of the world’s grit mines are in the south, mainly Alabama and Georgia, and are guarded by armed guards with dogs. Harvesting the grit is a dangerous occupation, and many grit miners lose their lives each year so that grits can continue to be served morning after morning with the correct amount of butter.”

I asked Kim Strother, my wife’s cousin, about the best way to cook grits. She said, “There’s nothing to it. You boil a cup and a half of water with salt and a little butter, dump in about five tablespoons of grits. Let the grits soak up all the water, then put the heat to it. When you stick a pencil in the grits and it stands alone, the grits are done.”

Aunt Babs jumped into the conversations and said, “Do you know how to tell if the grits are buttered enough to eat?”

“What is your answer, Aunt Babs?” I asked.

She replied, “You hold an un-pealed ripe banana next to the bowl of grits. If the colors match, the grits are ready to eat.”

Those Alabama people know how to cook grits and make red eye gravy. Grits, homemade buttermilk biscuits and red-eyed gravy will beat a T-bone steak and baked potato every time.

My mother made the best biscuits in the world, and always said you never ever substitute canned or store bought biscuits for the real thing because they cause rotten teeth and impotence.

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Now I have some questions for you to help me answer. Does pushing the elevator button more that once make it ar-

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rive faster? If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, then what is baby oil made from?

Why doesn’t glue stick to the inside of the bottle? How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire? Do illiterate people get the full effect of Alphabet soup? Why is it that now everyone has a cell phone, no one talks about seeing UFOs like they used to?

Who decided “Hotpoint” would be a good name for a company that sells refrigerators? Who took the bite out of the Apple logo? Do Victor the Dog’s relatives still receive royalties from RCA Victor when they use his picture on their label?

Why isn’t there a period after Dr on the Dr Pepper label? Can you knock the stuffing out of the Pillsbury Dough Boy? Was Betty Crocker ever a flour child? Why do people spend twice as much money on a shirt just because it has popular logo on it? And men, when you’re working on the car and your hands become coated in grease, why is it your nose begins to itch, and you have to tinkle?

I am not sure I have a firm grip on the situation we are in today!

If you cross the Cuban border illegally you will be thrown into political prison to rot. If you cross the Venezuelan border illegally you will be branded a spy and your fate will be sealed.

If you across the Iranian border illegally you are detained indefinitely. If you cross the Afghan border illegally, you get shot. If you cross the Saudi Arabian border illegally you will be jailed. If you cross the Chinese border illegally you may never be heard from again. If you cross the border into the United States you can get a job, drivers license, welfare, food stamps, credit cards, subsidized rent or a loan to buy a house, free cell phone, free education and free health care. I think I’ll change my name and get caught sneaking across the border into the United States.

Did you hear the story of the Florida senior citizen that was driving his brand new Corvette convertible on I-75 at 90 miles an hour? He looked in his rear view mirror and saw a FHP Trouper, blue lights flashing and siren blaring. The old sport floored it to 100 mph, then 110, and on to 120. Suddenly he thought, “What am I doing? I am too old for this,” and pulled over to await the trooper’s arrival. Pulling in behind him, the trooper got out of his vehicle and walked up to the Corvette. He looked at his watch, and said, “Sir, my shift ends in 15 minutes. Today is Friday. If you can give me a good reason for speeding---a reason I’ve never heard before, I’ll let you go!” The old gentleman thought for a second and said, “Three years ago, my wife ran off with a Florida State Trooper.

I thought you were bringing her back.”

“Have a good sir, Sir,” replied the trooper.

And in closing, don’t worry about the world coming to an end today. It’s already tomorrow in Australia!

Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the January 2014 issue WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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OPTIMIZING SOIL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS PAYS OFF IN SANDY SOILS Healthy soil is alive, a living ecosystem, and serves as the foundation for agriculture. Sometimes, it doesn’t get the respect it deserves.

When treated like dirt, soil is less productive, and the fertility of the land may be diminished.

One new technology, called Cool Terra®, provides growers a way to enhance soil vitality for greater yield in strawberry fields like yours. In fact, Cool Terra has shown some of the greatest results in the type of high sand, low organic matter soil common in Florida’s strawberry fields.

Just like a coral reef supports sea life by providing structure, resources, and habitat in an otherwise barren ocean floor, Cool Terra can support plant life by: •Optimizing water retention in the root zone •Enhancing nutrient exchange and availability •Building lasting soil structure •Providing an environment for microbes A 2018, 32 acre commercial trial in Polk County Florida using Cool Terra demonstrated improved strawberry yields by over 500 flats per acre. The increased strawberry yield provided a revenue impact of over $4K and a grower return on investment of 15.5x!

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A FIXED-CARBON MATERIAL SPECIFICALLY ENGINEERED TO PROVIDE LASTING SOIL PERFORMANCE BENEFITS Backed by over 120 independent, 3rd party field trials, Cool Terra provides, on average, a 12.3 increase in marketable yield and a greater than 3 to 1 return on investment. Give your soil the respect it deserves to establish a solid foundation for strawberry productivity and quality.

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By Ginny Mink

Part 58

Ornamental Gardening in Florida It’s time for another ride on the Literary Time Machine as we venture back in time nearly one hundred years to determine whether the ornamental gardening advice of that time is still relevant today. Mr. Charles Torrey Simpson is our conductor and will be quoted throughout as we delve deeper into his book, Ornamental Gardening in Florida.

Today we begin with the Dioscorea. Though you don’t have the pleasure of looking at this antique book, we would like you to know that the previous owner drew a line through one of Mr. Simpson’s statements and off to the side wrote, “Not true.” This in and of itself gives us the desire to find out what’s going on with the Dioscorea. Here’s what Mr. Simpson wrote about it, “Although this vine is grown largely in the tropics for its great, edible roots, which reach a length of eight feet and weigh a hundred pounds, yet it is one of our fine ornamentals.”¹ Eight feet long roots that weigh a hundred pounds and are edible? What in the world?

Science Direct has a plethora of information about these plants which are some sort of yam species. In Africa, they are often used for food and are popular in traditional Chinese medicine as well. However, some of the varieties attached are poisonous and can cause renal failure. The site notes that its been used, in its non-detoxified state, in cases of ritual poisoning, suicide, and hunting.² Since, Mr. Simpson doesn’t clarify which Dioscorea he is referencing, we’d prefer you err on the safe side and don’t eat these plants!

He continues, “Along in May it begins to send up strong, leafless stems which grow wonderfully and are soon covered with large, handsome, heart-shaped leaves. It bears very curious blossoms and winged seeds, also air potatoes which hang from long stems and are catapulted to a distance by high winds – a means of distribution.”¹ The which hang from long stems part is where the previous owner of this book took issue. Given all the other negative attributes of these “air potato” plants it seems an odd thing to note.

So, we move on to Gloriosa. He says this is a climbing lily, and being partial to lilies, this is of great interest. He writes, “I have three species growing around my house and all are as much at home as anything I have. G. superba and G. virescens come up in the spring and, after producing their beautiful lilies all summer die to the ground as cooler weather comes on.

G. rothschildiana does not come up until later and its period of blooming lasts longer. Once established these spread and the bulbs can be taken up when dormant.”

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As we stated previously, we are indeed fans of lilies. However, when you search for these Gloriosa, or climbing lilies, you will probably be quite surprised by their appearance.

In fact, when the image popped up, we realized that these flowers are located throughout the writer’s parent’s property.

They are almost a backwards looking flower, with the petals

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thrown back and the stamens protruding forward. Not your typical lily in the least, but still quite attractive if you are looking for a climbing flower.

Onward to the Ipomoea, or morning glory. Mr. Simpson pens, “…planted generally in the tropics, (it) is one of the most exquisitely beautiful vines we cultivate. When given good soil and plenty of feed it will soon cover a pergola, a use for which it is especially adapted, and produce an immense number of crimson flowers that appear as if varnished. There are varieties having different shades of color.” If this sounds like just the right flower for your garden area, we are happy to provide some additional tips.

According to Gardening Know How, there are a number of varieties, as Mr. Simpson suggested, and they all have funnel shaped blossoms. They bloom between May and September, opening in the morning and closing by the afternoon. They prefer full sun but can survive some light shade. And, you don’t have to worry about your dry or poor soil as they are quite tolerant. Of course, given its preference, it does best in moist, well-draining soil. You can start them from seeds and once they are established you won’t have to do much for them.³ Given what we have learned on this voyage today, it is our suggestion that you avoid the Dioscorea and settle for either the Gloriosa or Morning Glory, or both, when considering plants to add to your garden. We think both of the latter two suggestions are attractive and worthwhile. So, until next time, happy gardening!

Resources: ¹ Simpson, Charles T. (1926). Ornamental Gardening in Florida.

Published by the Author; Little River, FL. Printed by J.J. Little and Ives Company, New York. (p. 184-185). ²Ekor, M. (2014). Toxicological Survey of African Medicinal Plants. Discorea. Nephrotoxicity and Nephroprotective Potential of African Medicinal Plants. Science Direct. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/ dioscorea ³Tilley, N. Growing Morning Glories: How to Grow Morning Glory Flowers. Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/morning-glory/growing-morning-glories.htm Photo Credits: International Institute of Tropical Agriculture. (2008). Load carrier carries yam tubers to motor park. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/ ebAo71 Rulkens, T. (2012). Gloriosa superba. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/ briEHB James M. (2014). Blue Morning Glories. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/ pb5sRc WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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Maddie Dvorak

A DREAM COME TRUE

By Melissa Nichols

While some students were dreaming of becoming the next big country music star or the starting pitcher of a major league baseball team, Maddie Dvorak of Lakeland was dreaming of becoming a State FFA Officer. At a young age, 12 years old to be exact, during the summer between her 6th and 7th grade year, Maddie had the opportunity to attend the State FFA Convention with her school, Lake Gibson Middle, to represent her district in the state prepared speaking LDE (Leadership Development Event). At convention, she learned from her competitors, observed final rounds of state level competitions, listened to the inspiring words from Keynote speakers, absorbed life lessons shared by retiring state officer addresses, relished in the excitement of campaign speeches—Maddie was inspired!

As she talked with candidates running for state office and observed their passion for the agriculture industry and FFA organization, she knew, without hesitation that she too, wanted to serve as a state FFA officer — her dream was born. From her first state convention, Maddie Dvorak has not looked back and has never stopped reaching for her dream.

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The journey to serve as a State FFA Officer cannot be accomplished overnight; it takes years of training and preparing to acquire the skills to represent Florida’s 20,000 plus FFA members. Maddie understood what it took to become a state officer and spent the next six years of her life preparing—attending leadership development conferences, developing an impressive SAE (Supervised Agriculture Experience) program, serving in various leadership roles, and deepening her agricultural knowledge through CDE/LDE events.

Maddie let no opportunity pass her by. She attended COLT (Chapter Officer Leadership Training) each year from 2013-2018, attended Florida Outdoor Adventures, Florida Leadership Adventures, 212° & 360° Confer-

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ences, Chapter Presidents Conference, Global Youth Institute, Florida Youth Institute, State Leadership Summit and Washington Leadership Conference. She also worked hard to develop a network of FFA advisors, industry leaders, past and current State FFA Officers, and FFA members from across the state and nation who mentored her throughout her journey. Maddie has developed relationships with others from all walks of life, each contributing to the person she is today.

While Maddie worked diligently on schoolwork, she also competed in as many CDEs and LDEs (Career Development Events/Leadership Development Events) as possible, using each as an opportunity to expand her knowledge and learn from the experiences. From her 5th place finish in the state Prepared Public Speaking LDE as a 6th grade student, Maddie realized it would take dedication and hard work to develop the skills necessary to contend for a state championship title in Florida FFA. She sought out and participated in other speaking contest, including the FFA Creed speaking LDE, while in middle school in hopes of improving. Her efforts paid off in 2015 when, as an 8th grade student, Maddie won two state FFA championships for public speaking, State FFA Prepared Public Speaking and State FFA Creed Speaking. This experience played a key role in Maddie’s beliefs in the payoffs of hard work, which has been key in many of her successes. She continued to develop her skills throughout high school and has been named the Florida Farm Bureau’s Youth Speech Contest State Champion and, most recently, the high school State FFA Prepared Public Speaking Champion.

Maddie will represent Florida in the national prepared public speaking LDE, delivering an insightful speech on food insecurity during National FFA Convention this October. Maddie has previous experience competing at the national level, once in the Creed Speaking LDE WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

and another as a member of a 3rd place national FFA Parliamentary Procedure team.

Throughout her FFA journey, Maddie earned the privilege to serve in a variety of officer positions, including President of District VIII, Polk County FFA Federation, Kathleen High School FFA and Lake Gibson Middle School FFA. She used her skills to build an impressive SAE (Supervised Agriculture Experience) resume as well. She has shown horses and market hogs at the Polk County Youth Fair and Florida State Fair, along with a handful of other shows. Proving hard work is key to success, Maddie worked tirelessly with all of her animals, earning championships in horse and swine showmanship over the years. In 2018, Maddie advanced to the Champion of Champions contest at the Florida State Fair and earned the honor to serve as a Youth Ambassador for the fair during 2018 and 2019. Kyle Carlton, Maddie’s former FFA advisor at Kathleen School said, “When Maddie came to us as a ninth grader, she already knew she wanted to be a state officer and wasn’t shy about making that known. She has achieved that and much more. Maddie is a well rounded FFA member who desires to serve others.”

Without wavering on her state officer dream, Maddie entered her senior year preparing for her future with the wisdom to accept that not all dreams come true.

She took the remaining high school classes required for graduation and continued to dual enroll at Polk State College, having earned 53 credits towards her Associates Degree upon graduation. She applied to the University of Florida, was accepted and planned to major in Food and Resource Economics. Upon graduation, Maddie planned to follow her passion for agriculture by joining the Peace Corp in hopes of working with struggling countries to teach skills and share technology that will help end food insecurity. Keitha (Hall) Bennett, Maddie’s former FFA advisor at Kathleen High School, described her as “an unwavering optimist who truly has a heart for service to her fellow man.” In regards to her work ethic, Bennett said, “Maddie D is a gem! She would always think long and hard before she shared any goal with me because she knew that I would expect her to put in the work required to accomplish it.

Maddie’s ability to self-evaluate and seek opportunities for improvement is stellar and has served as a driving force of her success.”

a heartfelt, encouraging candidate speech to a record 6,000 plus attendees wearing giant, silly sunglasses, encouraging everyone to find their sunshine so they can be the sunshine for others. Maddie’s words reminded everyone of her ability to find the good in all people and situations. On June 14th, during the closing session of Maddie’s last Florida FFA State Convention as an active member, she was named Florida’s 2019-2020 Area IV State FFA Vice President. She ran to the stage to join her fellow officers, with tears pouring down her face as she realized a dream come true.

During her year of service as Area IV State Vice President Maddie hopes to use her experiences to inspire others to dare to dream big and prepare to work hard.

She desires to serve as a constant source of knowledge and plans to help any member that may need her. Maddie has grand ideas for the organization, will serve her members tirelessly, and will make Florida FFA even stronger through her service. She would be remiss if she did not look back and thank the people who helped her along the way. Maddie is endlessly grateful for her biggest supporter--her mother Lori Bruckheim, and Keitha (Hall) Bennett, Kyle Carlton, William Jameson, Stanley Scurlock, Jimmy Sweeney, Caleb Reed, Paul Webb, Ainsley Peterson, Kathleen FFA Alumni and the various advisors from around the state who helped make her dream a reality. Brett Wasden, a former Area IV State Vice President, once told the shy, 6th grade Maddie, “Wow! A 6th grader going to a state contest-- you have potential.” Maddie expressed her sincere appreciation to Brett, stating that he “saw the potential in me when I didn’t see it in myself.”

Serving as a State Officer starts with the screening process, which consists of two days of intense activities that allow a panel of judges to evaluate each candidate’s skill set, ultimately narrowing the field of candidates to a maximum of two candidates from each area and two candidates to serve as President and Secretary. At the conclusion of the screening process, Maddie was named an Area IV State Vice President candidate, and immediately began developing her campaign message. Area IV encompasses all of Polk County and parts of Orange and Osceola Counties, creating an extremely diverse mix of FFA members some may struggle to connect with. Maddie decided to lean on a quote that inspired her; “If you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine.” Throughout her tri-county travels on the campaign, Maddie encouraged FFA members to “always be the sunshine,” and used her personal experiences to encourage others to overcome trials by finding their personal sunshine. At state convention, she delivered INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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Florida

Monstera Delicioso

By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science Fresh Florida monstera deliciosa is a tropical fruit that tastes like pineapple and jackfruit. Also called ceriman, windowleaf, cut-leaf philodendron, swiss-cheese plant, and split-leaf philodendron, the monstera plant is often grown for decoration and its beautiful large tropical green leaves with natural holes. Monstera thrives in Florida’s warm, humid climate. The fruit of Monstera deliciosa resembles an ear of corn covered with hexagonal scales. It can grow up to 9.5 inches long and about 1.5 inches in diameter. When the fruit ripens, the scales lift up and fall off the fruit and releases a sweet, tropical scent.

Once fragrant, the fruit can be cut from the stalk and stored in a paper bag to finish ripening. The scales fall away, revealing the edible flesh beneath.

NUTRITIONAL PROFILE Monstera fruit is sweet and delicious with an exotic, tropical flavor. Little detail exists in the literature about its nutritional value, but in general is thought to be high in vitamins A, C, fiber, and potassium.

VITAMIN C Monstera fruit contains several antioxidants, including vitamins A and C. Vitamin C supports the body’s immune system in fighting infections and viruses. Additionally, this vitamin helps keep capillaries, gums, and skin healthy and supple.

The vitamin C in pitaya also enhances iron absorption from other foods, which reduces the risk of anemia. It even plays a role in preventing cardiovascular disease and eye disease.

VITAMIN A

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Vitamin A is essential for optimal eye health and can help prevent night-blindness. It also plays a role in immunity by supporting the white blood cells in fighting infections. Vitamin A is also involved in hearing, taste, and normal fetal development.

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FIBER Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases, by lowering blood cholesterol levels and slowing the progression of heart disease in high-risk individuals. Fiber also promotes bowel regularity and increases satiety levels, which can aid in weight control.

HOW TO SELECT AND STORE Pick ripe monstera fruit that has turned to a lighter shade of green and look for ones with scales that have lifted. At this point, ripe fruit may be cut from the plant, and ripened at room temperature or in a paper bag. The pulp should only be eaten from that portion of the fruit that easily falls off the core.

The fruit can also be stored for up to several days in the refrigerator. Avoid eating unripe fruit or excessive amounts since this fruit contains oxalic acid.

HOW TO ENJOY Monstera fruit is delicious eaten out-of–hand. Peel off the outer scales and cut off the kernels from the inner core with a knife, as you would an ear of corn. You can also slice the fruit into rings as you would pineapple, and separate the flesh from the inedible core. Other ways to enjoy this fruit include: •Freeze the pulp to make sorbet or ice cream •Mash the pulp to make jelly, yogurt, juice, or sauce •Slice and toss into a fruit or vegetable salad •Use the pulp in baked cakes or pastries •Blend with other fruits for a refreshing smoothie Enjoy this beautiful, fragrant fruit during Florida’s peak season. Eat it out of hand and enjoy the tropical sweetness.

SELECTED References http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://www.tropcialfruitgrowers.com

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NEWS BRIEFS

Compiled by Jim Frankowiak

NEWS BRIEFS UF OFFERS TWO NEW PUBLICATIONS ON BLUEBERRY PRODUCTION The Electronic Data Information Source (EDIS) of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension has announced release of two new publications on blueberry production.

Florida Blueberry Leaf Disease Guide – (http://edis.ifas. ufl.edu/pdffiles/PP/PP34800.pdf) is a diagnostic field guide for the identification and management of common leaf diseases of southern highbush blueberry in Florida.

Diaprepes Root Weevil on South Highbush Blueberry in Florida – (http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/IN/IN124100. pdf) contains updated information on citrus root weevil on southern highbush blueberry, including the most recent control recommendations.

A list of all UF EDIS publications on blueberry management can be found at https://www.blueberrybreeding. com/blog.

USDA CHANGING ANIMAL ID PLAN The USDA has announced radio frequency identification (RFID) ear tags will be required as the only official animal ID device in beef, dairy and bison as of January 1, 2023. No changes were announced for ID techniques used with swine, goats, sheep, etc., but producers may begin to see potential changes as early as the fall of 2020. More information is available at: https://aphis. usda.gov/traceability/plan-to-achieve-eid-factsheet. pdf EPA Rule Exempts Farms from Emissions Reporting The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has finalized its rule exempting livestock farmers from reporting to state and local authorities the routine emissions from their farms. This eliminates the need for livestock farmers to estimate and report emissions from the natural breakdown of manure.

needs under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The online self-service tool may be accessed at: https://efile. aphis.gov/LRAssistant USDA Farm Service Agency Accepting Committee Member Nominations The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) is accepting nominations for county committee members. Producers who participate or cooperate in any FSA programs can be nominated.

Committees make decisions about how federal farm programs are administered locally. Interested producers are encouraged to visit their local FSA office for information about involvement in their local county election. The nomination deadline is August 1 and self-nominations are permitted. The local FSA office is located at 201 South Collins Street in Plant City. Telephone: 813/752-1474.

USDA OFFERS RE-ENROLLMENT OR EXTENSION OPTIONS FOR CRP CONTRACTS The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is offering farmers and ranchers with expiring Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) contracts the option to re-enroll in certain CRP continuous practices of, if eligible, select a one-year contract extension. The FSA is also accepting offers from those who want to enroll for the first time in one of the country’s largest conservation programs.

The signup period ends August 23. For more information, visit: fsa.usda.gov.

FARM BUREAU IS ACCEPTING PHOTO CONTEST ENTRIES Florida Farm Bureau Federation is accepting member photo entries for its 2019 contest. The contest is open to all members who do not receive a regular income from photography. Categories include: On the Farm, Natural Florida and Wildlife and Children, Families and Pets.

The deadline for entries is August 9. The entry form is available at: https://bit.ly/2W3o0Z9.

USDA/APHIS has New Online Tool to Assist with Animal Licensing and Registration The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has introduced an online tool to help individuals and business identify their licensing and registration INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE

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By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff

Polk County Wildlife There have been a few stories that occurred in Polk County that should serve as a reminder to everyone just how careful we need to be when it comes to wildlife—even readers of “In The Field” who are generally familiar with rural Florida wildlife.

Back in mid-June, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office was notified by a resident in the southwest Lakeland area that she had spotted a black bear around Ewell Road. The next day, our friends at the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) got word that a bear was seen near Drane Field Road.

Most likely, this was the same bear-the two locations aren’t far from each other. But, June marks the beginning of bear breeding season, so if this was just one bear, a second one was probably not far away. Much like you wouldn’t want to disturb a mama bear and her cubs, you should also steerclear from bears when they’re looking for love in all the Polk places. As most of you know, it’s a good idea to keep a respectful distance from bears at all times. Especially bold bears who do not have a fear of humans.

Bear sightings in Polk aren’t necessarily unusual, but we typically don’t see as many as some other parts of the state.

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Florida is synonymous with alligators, arguably the most potentially dangerous of all of Florida’s wildlife. Sadly, last month, we saw just how dangerous gators can be when a Polk County man was found deceased in a Fort Meade canal.

The man’s hand and foot were found inside of a nearly 12foot, 450-pound alligator.

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When it comes to gators, there are three times of the year that you need to be cautiously respectful of them: 1. Mating season 2. Nesting season 3. The rest of the year Most Floridians know that a typical gator wants nothing to do with humans. But when people feed them, they see humans as a food source. That’s not good. Feeding alligators is not only a bad idea, it’s against the law.

For a lot of you, much of your work is done outside…you’re out in areas where you might encounter gators, wild hogs, coyotes, bobcats, panthers, snakes, and other things that can be dangerous. Yes, injuries and deaths from Florida wildlife are rare, but just like our deputies who might do frequent traffic stops---never become complacent in the realm of potentially dangerous animals. Rabies adds another element to prudent attitudes toward wildlife; foxes, raccoons, and bats also need to be kept at a respectful distance.

The wildlife here is just one of the many great things about central Florida and Polk County. We all need to respect them at a distance, for safety, and for the love of nature.

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s e p i c e R

Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Chef Justin Timineri

Florida Chicken, Avocado and Swiss Wrap q Ingredients q 3 Florida chicken breasts 1 large Florida avocado, peeled and sliced 4 slices Swiss cheese 4 whole-wheat wraps Âź cup plain yogurt 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 lemon, juiced 1 lime, juiced Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

PREPARATION In a small bowl combine the yogurt, mustard, and lemon juice; season with sea salt and pepper, to taste. Place two slices of cheese on top of each wrap, place on a cookie sheet and broil in the oven until the cheese melts. Remove from the oven and add chicken slices to each wrap. Add sliced avocado, sprinkle with lime juice, and top with yogurt sauce. Fold the wrap to create a sandwich.

Florida Avocado Crostini q Ingredients q 2 Florida avocados, halved, pitted and peeled 4 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, torn into 3-inch pieces 1 medium baguette, sliced into ½-inch-thick rounds Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing 2 cloves garlic Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

PREPARATION Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Arrange prosciutto in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake until crisp; let cool. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with oil. Bake until light golden brown around edges. Rub bread with garlic cloves. Mash avocados with a fork and season with salt and pepper. Spread avocado on baguette slices. Top each with a piece of prosciutto and serve.

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UF ECONOMIC ANALYSIS SHOWS SIGNIFICANT HARM OF MEXICAN FARM IMPORTS

By Jim Frankowiak A new economic analysis undertaken by a University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) team confirms that Mexican imports have significantly harmed Florida fruit and vegetable producers.

pers. The research team found that these Florida-produced foods declined by 58 percent, 22 percent and 27 percent, respectively, during the eight-year period while Mexican imports of these same products increased dramatically.

The level of Mexican products entering the U.S. domestic market during Florida’s peak winter seasons has grown substantially since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was introduced in 1993. Florida growers have lost large portions of the domestic market as well as sales volumes, according to the analysis.

The researchers concluded this trend will continue and lead to broader negative impacts across the state unless the trade relationship between the U.S. and Mexico undergoes changes. Florida Farm Bureau President John Hoblick, commenting on the analysis, noted “The new United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) does not go far enough to provide such relief. The Florida delegation’s unanimous endorsement of H.R. 101 points to a clear solution. Please support it,” he said.

The study focused on the 2010 – 2018 period with attention to three farm products: tomatoes, strawberries and bell pep-

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The UF/IFAS analysis can be accessed at: https://fred.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/economic-impact-analysis/ MexicoFruit&Vegetable.pdf.

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By Jack Payne Tiffani Swestyn wants to be an agriculture teacher so badly that she’s willing to drive clear across the state every week – and sometimes twice -- to do it. If it weren’t for the ag teacher training program in Plant City, she may not have been able to do it at all.

That would have been a big loss because we need more aspiring agriculture teachers like Swestyn, not more missed opportunities. Our instructors at the University of Florida’s ColTiffani Swestyn lege of Agricultural and Life Sciences know not everyone can make it to Gainesville to pursue their dreams. That’s why we come to them.

Or at least to within an hour and a half of them. Swestyn lives in Titusville. She commutes in a Honda Civic, a country music station her only companion, almost to the opposite coast to get to class.

We can’t get her from student to teacher fast enough. Brian Myers, chair of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Department of Agricultural Education and Communication, says there’s 100 percent teaching job placement rate for ag education graduates.

counties. UF/IFAS offers the only program to certify ag teachers in the state, so Plant City has been a popular spot for all of South Florida to access a UF education.

It also increases opportunity in an environment of hypercompetitive admissions. UF gets more applications for its freshman class than Yale does. Plant City offers the opportunity to transfer to UF as a junior.

There were 24 students in the program for the past academic year. Many of them work part- or full-time, as Swestyn does.

The class schedules are in part built to accommodate that.

Plant City is a portal to all of UF/IFAS. Plant City students learn from animal sciences faculty in Gainesville, a water quality expert in Wimauma, and entomology faculty at various UF/IFAS sites.

I often say, “If you’re not teaching, you’re not a university.”

While I often talk about research and Extension in this space,

Like most states, Florida has a shortage of school-based agriculture teachers. A perception of low pay and of lack of respect for the profession is thought to discourage some would-be ag teachers.

Heavy recruiting from the ag industry diverts new graduates away from public schools and into private companies seeking young professionals who can think, plan, and share ideas, says Myers.

At 21, Swestyn has a clear picture of her future. She plans to teach agriculture in a middle school, marry her fiancé, and pay the mortgage on their new home.

It wasn’t always so clear. She had always been interested in agriculture – she was active in FFA from sixth grade to high school graduation, Swestyn just didn’t see the path to a profession in the field.

After two other universities and two other majors, she sought advice from her mentor – the agriculture teacher she had for six years. That teacher was a UF graduate, and she knew about Plant City and told Swestyn about it.

Suddenly Swestyn could see her future again. She enrolled last year and plans to graduate next spring.

Debra Barry, who has taught several of Swestyn’s classes in Plant City, said Swestyn’s commute is the longest of her students but that others come from Polk, Pasco, and Manatee

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a teacher of agriculture, please reach out to us. Jason Steward is Plant City’s academic adviser and can be reached at 813757-2280 or jsteward@ufl.edu . You can also check out the program at https://gcrec.ifas.ufl.edu/uf-degree-programs/ advising-and-appointments/.

Jack Payne is the University of Florida’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources and leader of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

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I am equally committed to teaching as part of the land-grant university mission.

NEW LAWS, NEW ROADS, NEW AG PRODUCT

by John Dicks

Historically in Florida, the midpoint of the year is marked with the beginning of new laws recently passed by the legislature.

red light! Haven’t you noticed? It’s particularly annoying and frustrating!

This year was no exception. Like clock work, right smack-dab half way through the calendar, on July 1st, a whole slew of new laws geared up to make our life better, or at least it was intended so anyway.

Of course another frustrating thing about driving in Florida is congestion and nonstop gridlock. Certainly I could devote a zillion words to the discussion about solving our transportation woes, but for now will limit it to the observation that with this year’s state legislative accomplishments, our government committed a substantial sum and agreed to plans to expand our highways.

It’s the number of new laws that always amazes me. This year, there were nearly 200 bills passed by the legislature! Frankly, it’s just hard to imagine that there were that many things wrong with our state.

Nonetheless, the nearly 200 pieces of approved legislation actually represented roughly only 10% of the bills proposed!

Oh, well; as I am sure you would agree, Florida is still a great place to live.

This year also marked the first time the legislature met during which Gov. Ron DeSantis was in charge of the executive branch. It seemed that many observers noted how, in comparison to recent previous administrations, De Santis was more active in the process and engaging with legislative leaders.

The biggest headline grabber amongst the new laws was one dealing with texting while driving. The safety issue had been discussed for years but never seemed to make much headway.

This year proved to be different and the law making texting while driving a primary offense finally passed. It means that unlike before, when officers could ticket motorists for texting only when they were pulled over for some other reason, like speeding, now drivers can be stopped and issued a citation whenever the officer spots them in the act.

Probably to prevent any future legal arguments, the law indicates that the ban does not apply to those situations where the driver is not moving.

I suppose that non-moving exception acknowledges and continues today’s new driving technique of the seemingly mandatory texting (or Facebook updating) that drivers apparently feel compelled to do whenever stopped at a

Three new transportation corridors are being established. All three are toll roads, but they will add 340 miles throughout Florida to move around some of our ever increasing population.

Provided that it really gets done, it will relieve a bit of pressure particularly on north/south travelers. The SunCoast Parkway is set to get expanded from Tampa Bay to Georgia, and also to get connected along the way with the Florida Turnpike.

I remember so well looking at a Google map of Florida just a couple of years ago when Hurricane Irma was threatening our shores. Overlaid on top of the lines reflecting Interstates 75 and 95, heading north out of Florida, were deep, dark red hues indicating the highways were clogged beyond measure.

These new roads, albeit toll ones, will help relive some of that pressure buildup otherwise caused by another emergency evacuation.

One more major piece of legislation that we will no doubt hear much about as it fully develops was a law setting up a state hemp program. This was strongly supported and encouraged

by State Agriculture Commissioner, Nikki Fried, and an issue that she has not been shy in talking about when she travels and speaks throughout the state.

The new law gets things going with a rule making process for licensing and regulating the hemp industry as a potentially important crop and new one for farmers. Fried anticipates that the first production could get started as early as the end of this year and could grow into an annual $20 billion industry.

With new laws, new roads and a new agricultural product, it is a busy time in Florida for our beloved Sunshine State.

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John Dicks is both a lawyer and businessman, including an interest in farming. He and his family have owned a blueberry farm and have agricultural lands, which they lease for cattle operations, as John says, “to someone who knows and handles cattle much better than I do.” John is both a Gator, having received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and a Seminole, with his Law Degree from Florida State University. John serves as Of Counsel to Trinkle Redman, a law firm in Plant City where he also served nine years as City Commissioner, including three terms as Mayor.

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E n d a n g e r e d S p e c i es

Not What You Think:

Crenulate Lead-Plant

By Ginny Mink

If you have ever had to buy a house, you are aware of the dangers of lead paint. You have to sign papers, dependent upon the year the house was built, in reference to those dangers.

So, when we were looking for an endangered species to write about this month, we were intrigued by a plant known as the crenulate lead-plant, or Amorpha crenulata. Of course, it’s not what you think. It has nothing to do with lead paint, but the name caught our attention, nonetheless.

The Amorpha crenulata was added to the Federally Endangered list on July 18, 1985. So, as we near it’s listing anniversary, 34 years later, it seems as good a time as any to bring the plant’s plight to you. To recognize it, you must understand that it is a medium sized shrub with single petaled flowers and compound leaves. And, it grows in pine rockland habitats.¹ According to the Fish and Wildlife Services it is only located in small areas of Miami-Dade County in an area maintained by periodically scheduled fires. It has reddish purple branches with leaves that are green or grey on the top and spotted underneath. Flowers are in loose clusters and generally white.

The Amorpha crenulata produces fruit as well.² The fruit is a flattened pod on these plants that can reach upwards of 5 feet in height. You will notice the flowers during the spring and summer while the leaves are most distinctive during spring and fall. Unfortunately, 99% of the habitat where the Amorpha crenulata exists has been lost to development.

Due to this, and some other factors, there are now only eight known populations; only four of which are located on managed areas. One of these locations is an area where the plant has been introduced.³ The crenulate lead-plant grows best in poorly developed soils. It likes areas where there is a thin sand layer and a porous limestone substrate. This is often referred to as Miami oolite. Many of the plants find their rooting in rock crevices and solution holes that are the result of the erosion of the underlying limestone. They grow in areas where you will find saw palmetto, poisonwood, wax myrtle, southern slash pine, and silver palms.¹ Amorpha crenulate was first described in 1919 by Rydberg in the hammocks located between Cutler and Coconut Grove.

Currently it is only found within a 20 square mile section between Coral Gables and Kendall. Historically, its range was only a little bit wider than that. There have been no sightings of the crenulate lead-plant in hardwood hammocks and there is even some debate as to whether or not any collections were actually made in those locales.² The reality for these plants is that the area has undergone extensive urbanization and development. The original habitat of 152,000 acres has been decreased to 4,500 acres as of 1978 and only 1,700 of those acres are considered to be in pristine condition. Because we now suppress fires and have a serious issue with the invasion of exotic and non-native plants, some of the vegetation that would have been understory has kind of taken over.¹ As far as reproduction goes, scientist don’t know much. After observing one population for two years, they noticed no appearance of seedlings and very little growth among the already existing plants. In fact, they only noted that flowering happened after there had been some sort of human disturbance. And, there doesn’t seem to be any pollinators or dispensers present. But, they noted that cultivation was easy, so they suspect that the lack of viable seeds isn’t really the issue in the wild.²

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Recommendations for protection, conservation, and recovery include intervals of three to ten years for controlled burns. It is

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assumed that without these controlled and prescribed burns the hammock areas will be dominated by various understory plants and invasive species within the next 25 years. Unfortunately, due to the fragmentation of the current populations, those of smaller sizes are not expected to survive at the time of this writing.¹ Of course, controlling the existence of exotic plants could also be a substantial benefit for the crenulate lead-plant. But, controlling these non-native and often invasive species can be significantly expensive due to the need for manual labor.

Heavily infested areas are quite labor intensive because plants must be pulled by hand. However, once an area has been cleared of these invaders, the costs to control and maintain is significantly less. Basically, an active strategy must occur and, given the location, requires a multi-lingual outreach program that stresses the importance of controlling invasive species and providing prescribed fires.² As we suggested in the beginning, the crenulate lead-plant has nothing to do with lead paint, or the poisoning associated therein. Instead, it has everything to do with the way Florida was designed by the Creator. These plants were placed here on purpose and therefore, it is our job as stewards of this planet to ensure that they are protected. If you have connections in the Miami-Dade area, please reach out and make this plant known. Help it garner some attention and thereby protection by the locals, especially since some of the populations are founds in small urban areas. Together, we can make a change.

Resources: ¹Beachman’s Guide to the Endangered Species of North America. (2000). Crenulate Lead-Plant. Gale Group Inc. As provided by Encyclopedia.com. https://www.encyclopedia.com/ environment/science-magazines/crenulate-lead-plant ²Fish and Wildlife Services. Crenulate Lead-plant. Amorpha crenulata. https://www.fws.gov/verobeach/MSRPPDFs/ Crenulate.pdf ³Florida Natural Areas Inventory. (2000). Crenulate Lead-Plant. https://www.fnai.org/FieldGuide/pdf/Amorpha_herbacea_ var_crenulata.pdf Photo Credits: Zona, S. (2011). Amporpha heracea var. crenulate 2. (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/9UpPz9 Smith, L. (2014) Lead Plant (Oaklahoma- other variety). (Flickr). https://flic.kr/p/nJjAPP WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

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A Closer LookAmazing Activities Naturally

by Sean Green

Leather Bookmark

When you mention bookmarks these days many will assume you’re talking about a web browser. Bookmarks, like the books they belong in, are quickly becoming a thing of the past. Digital copies of a book cannot replace the personal connection the printed version offers. Likewise, there is nothing quite like a bookmark that has acquired its character through countless pages of beloved literature. This month we are making a magnetized leather bookmark that will not only endure, but will gain character the more it’s used.

Supplies: Thin Leather Scrap (1-2 oz) Waxed Cord (optional) Felt Leather Stamp (optional) Strong Magnetic Strip (Ideally Neodymium) Fabric Glue Cutting Tool (Leather knife, Scissors, Razor) Leather sewing needles (optional) Production: Your bookmark design should be symmetrical and double the length you want sticking in the book. The finished piece will be folded in half over the page.

Lightly draw the shape of your bookmark onto leather with a sewing needle.

Cut the leather and felt to shape Cut magnetic strips to fit within both sides of the bookmark leaving a couple mm space on each side and space to fold the bookmark in the middle.

Spread fabric glue onto the leather

Sandwich the magnetic strip between the glued leather and felt, allow to dry.

Sew an outer seam of 2 mm to secure the leather and felt (optional)

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Stamp or decorate the leather bookmark

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The fabric glue will likely hold well enough, but hand stitching will certainly make the bookmark more durable and attractive.

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A Closer Look

by Sean Green

Giant Water Bug (Belostomatidae)

It’s getting hot in Florida and many of us are playing in the water to keep cool. This month we are featuring a bug that just might be swimming in the water with you.

If you’ve ever seen little black bugs swimming in circles on the surface of the water, these are water bugs. Not all water bugs are created equally and not all are small.

The waterbug we are featuring this month is the giant water bug and is, in fact, the largest of the true bugs.

The giant water bug, though fascinating, should be approached with caution for a closer look.

If you’ve ever seen a giant water bug you will not soon forget. They are huge; in fact they’re the largest of true bugs. Their bodies can reach lengths of 4 inches and their two front legs have been modified to become raptor like appendages with spikes on the end specially designed to grasp their prey. Hollowed out, these front appendages inject digestive fluid into its prey to reduce it to a slurry that can be sucked up through its proboscis in much the same manner a spider predigest it’s meal.

The giant water bug is very close to the top of the food chain in its environment of small bodies of still water. It has been known to prey on fish, crustaceans, like crawfish, frogs and even turtles, pretty much anything it can dig its claws into. Although human beings are not on the menu, they will definitely bite if harassed. Oh, and I might add, they can fly. I have never been bitten by one, but most sources agree that when this bug does bite it is known to be one of the most painful of all insects and can last up to four or five hours. The venom this insect injects is enough to paralyze its prey and begin breaking down its tissue; however, there’s no evidence that the Venom is potent enough to have the same effect on a human being.

Those of us that have experienced these insects first hand may refer to them as toe biters for obvious reasons. They typically hunt in the water just below the surface, breathing through a snorkel like organ attached to their abdomen. When frightened they will dive down into the water and settle within the leaves and sub-

Once mated these seemingly evil bugs are actually pretty good parents. One species (B. lethocerus) lays her eggs on plants near the edge of a pond and takes turns with the male in guarding the eggs while the other hunts. Another species, (B. abedies), lays the eggs on the larger males’ back to ensure the eggs remain protected until hatched. The male not only surfaces occasionally so the eggs get air, but also has an interesting brood pump that forces water to move over the eggs increasing oxygen diffusion.

These fascinating insects are very efficient Hunters in both their larval and adult forms. They are opportunistic feeders with a wide range of prey that include critters that many of us would consider pests, such as mosquito larva and other aquatic insects, snails, and snakes.

The giant water bug will prey on animals many times its size, sometimes even sharing the kill with other giant water bugs. This insect can absolutely be a benefit to pond owners that wish to maintain balance in the pond habitat. Choose this insect as a pet simply because they are so fascinating to watch and relatively easy to keep.

I encourage you to take a closer look at the giant water bug. I will caution you again that these insects can deliver a very painful bite though not life-threatening. If you would like to take a closer look, you could always go to Asian food market where these insects are sold as a delicacy and can be safely handled and examined before indulging in new cuisine. Bon Appetit.

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merged debris, their camouflage making it very difficult to find them in their natural environment. Most of us see these bugs in urban environments such as mall parking lots, airports, parking garages, public pools or anywhere else there are bright lights near bodies of stagnant freshwater. As mentioned before these bugs can fly and do so when they emerge for mating. They crawl out of the water and fly from pond to pond to mate and get disoriented by bright street lights and can be seen flying around the street lights. It is because of this attraction to lights that the giant water bug is also known as the electric light bug.

COUNTY HORTICULTURE AGENTS DEVELOP MIDDLE SCHOOL

“POLLINATOR POWER” CURRICULUM

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Thanks to the efforts of Nicole Pinson and Alicia Lamborn, Extension horticulture agents with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in Hillsborough and Baker counties, respectively, middle school science teachers now have a new tool to help teach students about pollinators and the role they have in producing food.

The new curriculum is entitled, “Pollinator Power.”

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By Jim Frakowiak

“Teaching youth about pollinators is important so they may develop an understanding of and appreciation for the link between pollinators and the food we eat,” said Pinson. “Some of our favorite foods – such as watermelon and blueberries – come from pollinated plants. Without pollinators, the food we eat would be limited.”

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Pollinators are animals that move pollen from the male anther of a flower to the female stigma of a flower, helping to bring about fertilization of the ovules in the flower by the male gametes from the pollen grains. Most commonly known insect pollinators include bees, butterflies and moths.

layout, which includes learning objectives, timeframes for activities, references and online resources and optional items to supplement teaching that are available for purchase online.”

The “Power Pollinator” curriculum contains three lesson plans and a variety of activities to introduce students to pollinators in fun, interactive ways.

“For instance, one learning activity has the class construct a ‘bee hotel’ and set it up in a pollinator friendly part of the school,” said Lamborn. “This activity teaches students about solitary bees and wasps that nest in the kind of hollow spaces included in the hotel.”

“The thinking behind the activities is to engage students in several ways: inside the classroom through computer-based, online learning; outside in natural areas; and through relevant, real-world inquiry,” Pinson explained.

The curriculum includes a Pollinator Power Safari Kit, which contains bug jars, a butterfly net, magnifier and insect and flower rubbing plates. With these supplies, students can scout a garden or landscape for pollinator insects and animals. In another activity, students get to “Be the Bee” by hand-pollinating squash or zucchini flowers. “It’s a one-stop shop for teaching pollinator science,” said Pinson. “With content and resources already compiled for teachers and students, it saves teachers time researching and planning the lesson,” she said. “Educators will appreciate the curriculum’s easy-to-follow

For educators with students who are afraid of bees and wasps, the curriculum can help those students better appreciate these insects and to see them as beneficial, Lamborn said.

From Pinson’s experience, however, most youth enjoy learning about pollinator insects and animals, especially when they are able to identify them in the garden or schoolyards.

TO ORDER THE POLLINATOR POWER CURRICULUM, VISIT THE UF/IFAS EXTENSION BOOKSTORE WEBSITE: IFASBOOKS.COM.

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While the lessons were designed to mirror topics taught in grades five through eight, “teachers can adapt them for learners of other ages and even adults,” Lamborn said. “With reports of declining pollinator populations, this curriculum is highly relevant to students today who want to know how to support pollinators.

When Temps Soar, Here’s How to Make Fruits, Vegetables Last Longer

by Samantha Grenrock You’re proud of yourself — you’ve just come back from the grocery store with a trove of healthy fruits and vegetables.

Fast forward to a few days later when you’re throwing away all that beautiful produce because it’s spoiled in the summer heat.

Hot weather isn’t kind to most fresh produce, but there are steps you can take to help fruits and vegetables last longer, says a University of Florida scientist.

Higher temperatures speed up all the natural processes that fruits and vegetables go through as they ripen or age, said Jeff Brecht, professor of horticultural sciences in the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Brecht studies what happens at the chemical level as produce goes from the farm to the consumer.

“Once a fruit or vegetable reaches its optimum eating quality, its cells begin to die, a stage we call senescence. If you’ve ever picked up a piece of produce and found a puddle underneath, that’s the cells breaking down and releasing their liquid contents,” Brecht said.

During this stage, fruits and vegetables lose their resistance to microbes such as bacteria and fungi, which cause decay, Brecht explained.

This is why berries found at the center of plastic clamshells are sometimes mushy or moldy. “It’s a misconception that producers hide those berries in the middle of the pack. The fruit in the middle is insulated and stays warmer, so it goes bad first,” he said.

Lowering the temperature seems an obvious solution, but it’s not that easy, Brecht said. Refrigeration can produce unpalatable results in some fruits and vegetables.

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“The storage method should match the climate of the place where the fruit was grown,” Brecht said. “Crops that grow in temperate regions, such as apples and pears, do best when stored just above freezing. On the other hand, crops from tropical regions, such as mangoes and bananas, are damaged by cold temperatures and shouldn’t go in the refrigerator.”

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That includes avocados. Have you ever opened a seemingly perfect avocado to find that the inside is mottled brown, with dark, stringy fibers running through the flesh?

“This happens when avocados are exposed to cold before they are fully ripe, when they are more sensitive to lower temperatures,” Brecht said.

This chilling injury also inhibits aroma development, making it a major cause of flavorless produce.

On top of that, some fruits and vegetables produce ethylene gas, which can cause spotting and yellowing in produce stored nearby. Leafy greens, carrots and broccoli are all ethylene sensitive and should be stored separately from ethylene producing produce, such as bananas and melons.

“This is where the crisper drawer in your refrigerator can come in handy,” Brecht said. “It’s a good idea to store ethylene sensitive produce in the crisper draw to keep it separate from ethylene producing items elsewhere in the refrigerator.”

Brecht points out that even the car ride home from the grocery store can affect produce.

“Instead of putting produce in the trunk, put your produce up front with you, where there is air conditioning,” he said.

The moral of this story: fruits and vegetables are sensitive to their environment. But if you store them in the right place, at the right temperature, you can enjoy them all summer long.

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS works to bring science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. Visit the UF/IFAS web site at ifas.ufl.edu and follow us on social media at @UF_IFAS. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

FDACS HOLDS

HEMP

RULEMAKING WORKSHOP AT FAIRGROUNDS

By Jim Frankowiak Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Nicole “Nikki” Fried recently joined several other Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) officials at the Florida State Fairgrounds for the second of three, day-long public hemp rulemaking workshops taking place in the state last month. The first such workshop took place at Pembroke Pines and the third was held in Tallahassee.

“The goal of these workshops is to hear from the public on the upcoming state hemp program,” said Fried. “For this program to be as successful as possible, it must inclusive, involving all Floridians interested in hemp and in the rulemaking process. I see this as an industrial revolution for our state and our country. It’s an opportunity to make our economy a bit greener.”

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 1020 two days after the final workshop, creating the state hemp program that is to be administered by FDACS. The program will regulate cultivation of hemp, addressing issues such as the licensing of growers. The workshops were organized to involve the public and various hemp industry stakeholders, including growers, processors, lab owners, manufacturers and retailers to interact among themselves and with FDACS officials.

“Our new state hemp program marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter here in Florida and brings a chance to strengthen our agriculture industry, increase access to safe Cannabidiol (CBD) extract products and diversify and fuel our state economy,” said Fried. Each of the three workshops was open to the public and live streamed on The Florida Channel.

All workshop attendees were provided with copies of the draft rule for their information and comments. FDACS is to finalize the rules for the state hemp program at a future date.

Each workshop included presentations from FDACS divisions of Plant Industry, Agricultural Environmental Services and Food Safety with opportunities for public comment following each of those presentations. Comments from attendees were recorded for further consideration.

FDACS maintains a section on its website to provide information on cannabis and the new state hemp program. Interested parties are encouraged to visit: FreshFromFlorida.com/Cannabis for updates or emailing Cannabis@FreshFromFlorida.com with any questions.

Hemp plants have been planted at the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center in Homestead and at the UF/IFAS Agronomy Forage Research Unit in Hague. They are the first hemp plants to be legally grown in the state since the 1950s. Multiple UF/IFAS sites are actively participating in the pilot project with researchers looking to identify hemp varieties suitable for planning in Florida, developing industrial hemp management practices for growing hemp in the state’s diverse growing environments and also assessing the risk of hemp being an invasive plant that could pose a potential risk to Florida’s landscapes.

“Industrial hemp is a diverse, multi-use crop with applications in bioplastics, building material, food, textiles and forage,” said Assistant Professor of Agronomy Zachary Brym, who heads the UF Industrial Hemp Pilot Program.

The overall goal of the pilot program is to gather the most basic information necessary for the initial design and economic assessment of hemp growing systems for regions across Florida. The UF Gainesville campus is involved in assessing the invasion risk that the plant has for Florida’s natural environment. Work to screen hemp for nematode and mildew susceptibility has begun at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center. Additional information, which is regularly updated, is available at: https://progframs,ifas.ufl.edu/hemp/.

Just prior to the initial workshop at Pembroke Pines, Commissioner Fried submitted a statement to the U.S. House Committee on Small Business for entry into the Congressional Record, regarding opportunities for small businesses within the cannabis industry. Her letter stated “Relevant federal agencies, including the Department of Justice, the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Food and Drug Administration, are strongly encouraged to revisit federal policies and regulations that run counter to the entrepreneurial growth of cannabis taking place across America.

“In addition, the absence of traditional banking services forces statelicensed businesses to resort to all-cash operations, which is both inefficient and a public safety concern. Businesses cannot operate proficiently with irregularities restricting their growth, stability and the ability to pay bills and expenses. This is an issue impacting our state and national economy.

“This is why I strongly support the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act (H.R. 2215). Lack of access to an efficient and safe banking system, and traditional loans and capital markets, puts legally-operating cannabis businesses at a crippling disadvantage.

Concurrently, the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricul- Without Congressional action, continued confusion and misinformatural Sciences (UF/IFAS) industrial hemp pilot program announced tion regarding cannabis could discourage financial institutions from passage of a critical milestone towards understanding the potential partnering with businesses on this promising new commodity,” her of growing hemp throughout Florida. letter to Committee Chairwoman U.S. Rep. Nydia Velazquez said.

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