In The Field Magazine - Polk

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com February 2011 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 1

Feb. 15 - Mar. 15, 2011

®

Covering What’s Growing

An Exotic Location

FX Bar ranCh

2 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE February 2011 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com www.InTheFieldMagazine.com February 2011 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 3

TEL: 813.752.3141I-4 Exit 21• 2011 N. Wheeler St.

Plant City, FL 33563WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

FEBRUARY 18 –RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will beperforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

FEBRUARY 19 – THE VAN DELLS50s & 60s Rock and Roll – The Van Dells are aunique blend of comedy, choreography and tightharmonies... the group is nonstop action fromstart to finish! Plus, PJ Leary & The Las VegasSounds will also perform before and after theshow in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 25JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The LasVegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

FEBRUARY 26 – THE LEGACY OF

THE TEMPTATIONSBack by popular demand. This group will thrillyou with the hits that we have loved for so long...including: “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg and “PapaWas A Rolling Stone!” Plus, Richie Merrit andPJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 4

RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

MARCH 5LOLA & THE SAINTSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s asthough it was yesterday. “Forever in Love,”“Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.” Plus, PJ Leary& The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 11 & 12

DOOWOP WEEKEND - VOL. 5The annual event is underway for anotherspectacular extravaganza! This year’s line upwill include The DelPrados, George Galfo’sMystics, Terry Johnson’s Flamingos, The Edsels,Bob Feldman and P.J. Leary and the Las VegasSounds.

MARCH 18


MARCH 19 & 25JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The LasVegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

MARCH 26

BUDDY HOLLY &THE BEATLESTRIBUTE SHOWA tribute to two of music’s historical cutting ageacts - Buddy Holly & The Beatles. BeatleBeat pre-viously performed at Disney’s Epcot and was a bigcrowd pleaser. If you loved Holly and the Beatles,this is an act not to miss! Dinner served in a sup-per club atmosphere in the Red Rose Ballroom.

APRIL 2 & 8


APRIL 2BOB RYMAN“THE FIDDLER”Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” was a legend in thearea for many years when The Red Rose wasLanny Purcell’s Holiday Inn and was also afavorite at Florida The Strawberry Festival®.Because of his fans’ request, The Red Rose Inn isbringing “The Fiddler” back. P.J.Leary & The LasVegas Sounds will open & close the show in theRed Rose Ballroom.

APRIL 9JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The LasVegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

APRIL 15RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formerly of The Marcels, formerlysang with The Clovers when they were inductedinto The Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002 andalso sang on PBS DOO WOP 51 with TheClovers. Plus, Destiny will play before and afterthe show.

APRIL 16


APRIL22JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The LasVegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

APRIL 23


APRIL 29RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will beperforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

The Premier Showplacefor Talent in Florida

SHOW RESERVATIONS

Please call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red RoseBallroom are in a supper club atmosphere with a fourcourse meal (seats also available for the show only –

for a lower price!)

NO COVER CHARGEfor shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room

with the purchase of dinner.Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates

when staying overnight after a show!

RRose_FEBSpread:Layout 1 2/2/11 11:37 AM Page 1

Mrs. Evelyn MadoniaOwner

RRose_FEBSpread:Layout 1 2/2/11 11:37 AM Page 2


Cover Story

From the Editor

FX Bar Ranch 34

Sarah HoltVOL. 5 • ISSUE 5

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com February 2011 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 1

Feb. 15 - Mar. 15, 2011

®

Covering What’s Growing

Not Just Another Beef Cattle Operation

FX BAR RANCH

In The Field® Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Hillsborough County businesses, restaurants and other local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes members of Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Growers Association. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: [email protected] or call 813-759-6909.

Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field® Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by their advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In The Field® magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc. Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

7 Did You Know?

10Grub Station

Harry’s Old Place

12Recipes

16Woman in Ag

Hope Clark Bibby

18Fishing Hot Spots

24Rocking Chair Chatter

28Adam Putnam’s Dream Team

44Citrus Hall of Fame

48Polk County Junior Cattlemen

54Citrus Research and

Education Center

56Polk County Youth Fair Results

Heartland’s AGRICULTURE Magazine®February

I struggle with my bad eating habits on a daily basis. I tend to want foods that aren’t so good for me, sweets that I shouldn’t have, while striving to make the right decisions to be as healthy as I can be.

If you are a parent, instill healthy eating habits in your chil-dren at an early age. “Give your child a healthy and wholesome start” and visit the Fresh From Florida Kids page at www.fresh-fromfloridakids.com. Research suggests that taste preferences and eating habits are fully developed by the time a child is three years old, so start early.

Tips from the Fresh From Florida Kids web site to help get your kids on track to healthy eating include:

• Children are more likely to eat a nutritious meal if they’ve had a hand in making it. Let your child help you select ingredients, prepare the meal and even clean up afterwards.

• Some fruits and vegetables are not supposed to be chilled. How you find them in the market is probably the best way to store them once you get them home.

• Cook with less fat – try baking, roasting, or poaching foods instead of frying.

• Visit a local farmers market to teach your kids about where their food comes from. You can find a local farm-ers market by visiting www.florida-agriculture.com/consumers/farmers_markets.htm

• Avoid letting your child snack all day long. If they aren’t very hungry at mealtime, they are less likely to try new foods.

There are many more tips for keeping on the path to healthy eating, along with recipes and how to videos. Help your children develop healthy eating habits early on. They will thank you for it.

As always, thank you to our advertisers. You allow us to con-tinue to cover what is growing. We appreciate each of you. I also want to say thank you to our readers. I sincerely hope you enjoy the stories you find in the pages of In The Field. We continue to look for interesting people with exciting stories and welcome any suggestions from our readers. If you know of someone special, please let us know.

Until next month,

Sarah

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

Publisher/OwnerKaren Berry

Editor-In-ChiefAl Berry

Senior Managing Editor/Associate

PublisherSarah Holt

Editor Patsy Berry

Office ManagerBob Hughens

Sales ManagerDanny Crampton

SalesNick Massey

Tina RichmondDanny Crampton

W. Russell Hancock

Creative DirectorAmey Celoria

DesignerJuan Carlos Alvarez

Staff WritersSandy Kaster

James FrankowiakKayla LewisTracy CoxSean Green

Nick ChapmanMark Cook

Rhonda WalkerGinny Mink

Contributing WritersDick Loupe

Bridget CarlisleShelby Freeman

PhotographyKaren BerryJim Davis

W. Russell Hancock


POLK COUNTY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATIONPO Box 9005 • Drawer HS03

Bartow, FL 33831-9005

OFFICERS& BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President – Charles Clark (863) 412-8349 [email protected]

Vice President – Dave Tomkow (863) 665-5088 [email protected]

Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch (863) 425-1121 [email protected]

Al Bellotto (863) 581-5515

Ray Clark, (863) 683-8196 [email protected]

L.B. Flanders, DVM (863) 644-5974

Dewey Fussell (863) 984-3782

Mike Fussell (863) 698-8314 [email protected]

David McCullers )863) 528-1195

Moby Persing (863) 528-4379

Ned Waters (863) 698-1597 [email protected]

J. B. Wynn (863) 581-3255 [email protected]

Alternate - Howard Yates, 2501 Arbuckle Lane, Frostproof, FL 33843-9647

Standing Committee Chairs:

Membership- J.B. Wynn

Events- Kevin Fussell (863) 412-5876

Rodeo- Fred Waters (863) 559-7808 [email protected]

Cattlewomen - President

Sherry Kitchen (863) 221-0230 [email protected]

Extension – Bridget Carlisle (863) 519-8677 [email protected]

Sheriff’s Dept. – Sgt. Howard Martin

By the time this article comes out, we, as Directors will have completed a very busy first six weeks of the year. January 6 we co-hosted, with Farm Bureau, the Annual Legislative Appreciation function. In past years it was an evening event, but has evolved into a luncheon to allow our governmental representatives to squeeze more planning time into a crowded schedule. Everyone always enjoys the corn boil as an appetizer, followed by a steak just off the grill.

On the 14th we prepared the meal for the Taste of Ag, the major fund raiser for the Polk County Youth Fair, again in conjunction with Polk County Farm Bureau, along with the Polk County Cattlewomen’s Associa-tion. Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Higgenbotham for hosting the event. Their place provides the perfect atmosphere for such an event. A lot of fun was had by all. Especially those making the mashed potatoes for three hundred people.

Agri-Fest will be coming in the middle of February. The 7th through the 11th and the 22nd to the 25th with the final day on the 28th. It had to be split this year to work around testing and a school holiday. This event allows all fourth graders in Polk County to attend a field trip that helps them understand and gain an appreciation of the importance of agriculture to the county and in their lives. The cattle portion is supported by local cattlemen, who bring their livestock for exhibit. While the lecture portion is conducted a local cattlemen is in the arena on his horse. This is always a hit with the children. A special thanks to Bridget Carlisle, Beef Extension Agent, for putting together the lecture portion of the program.

Between the two sections of Agri-Fest, the annual Trade Show and Ranch Rodeo was held on the 12th. Hopefully a large number of you attended the event and enjoyed the friendly competition between the teams, all representing Polk County ranches.

Not to leave out the Polk County Youth Fair, which is going on as I write this. We support the Fair with time and premiums, as do many organizations throughout Polk County. Thank you to all who support this local fair whether you are a Cattlemen member or not. It would amaze most people as to how many students have competed in this Fair over the years.

Thanks to all the members who helped with these functions to make them a success.In closing, the following web site contains a history of the Florida cattle industry, from the early explorers

to modern day. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.www.floridamemory.com/photographiccollection/photo_exhibits/ranching/index.cfm

Charles ClarkCharles ClarkPolk County Cattlemen’s Association President

• Lamborgini makes Tractors.

• This October has 5 Fridays, 5 Saturdays and 5 Sundays, all in one month. It happens once in 823 years.

• Most refurbished tractors are between 15 to 30 years old.

• Almost all oil production on Alaska’s North Slope remains shut down after workers on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline system discovered a leak over the second weekend of January 2011.

• Mercedes car was named after an Austrian girl

• Bank of America started as Bank of Italy.

• Thanksgiving was held twice in 1815.

• A fresh egg will sink in water, a stale one won’t.

• The aspirin was discovered during an experi-ment.

• Dinosaurs did not eat grass.

• Nobody knows who invented eyeglasses.

• On an average 1 hour and six minutes is spent on traveling each day.

• The Sargasso Sea does not have a coast line.

• There is a major earthquake every year.

• The human head contains 22 bones.

• They speak 365 different languages in Indonesia.

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YOU TOO CAN BE A WINNERHEY READERS, hidden somewhere in the magazine is a

No Farmers, No Food logo. Hunt for the logo and once you find the hidden logo you will be eligible for a drawing to win a FREE InTheField® T-Shirt. Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the page on

which you found the logo and where on that page you located the logo to:

InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, FL 33563-0042All Entries must be received by March 3, 2011.

Winner will be notified by phone.You Too Can Be A Winner - Enter Now!

No FarmersNo Food

Save $2.00 on Adult General Admission at participating Sweetbay Supermarkets!

MAR. 3 - MAR. 13, 2011 - PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

Cool Whip • Stingray Chevrolet • TECO • Premium Leisure • Southern Ford Dealers • CF Industries • Patterson Companies Mahaffey Tent Rentals • Verizon Wireless • Candyland Warehouse

.38 SPECIAL

KENNY ROGERS

THE JUDDS (The Last Encore)

THE DOOBIE BROTHERS

TRACE ADKINS

CHARLEY PRIDE

BILLY RAY CYRUS

RICK SPRINGFIELD

CLINT BLACK

JENNETTE MCCURDY

TANYA TUCKER

GEORGE JONES

CHRIS YOUNG

Red Hat Society

Day Tues, Mar, 8th $2 Off Gate Admission

SENIOR CITIZEN’S

DAYSFREE CONCERTS

Thurs, Mar 3rdJimmy Sturr

OrchestraThurs, Mar 10th

Guy Lombardo Band Concerts 10:30am

Thu. Mar. 3 10:30 am Jimmy Sturr & Orchestra FREE Thu. Mar. 3 3:30 pm Bobby Vinton $10 & $15 Thu. Mar. 3 7:30 pm Kenny Rogers $15 & $20 Fri. Mar. 4 3:30 pm John Conlee $10 & $15 Fri. Mar. 4 7:30 pm .38 Special $20 & $25 Sat. Mar. 5 1:00 pm Suite Caroline FREE Sat. Mar. 5 3:30 pm Jeremy Camp $20 & $25 Sat. Mar. 5 7:30 pm Gaither Vocal Band $20 & $25 Sun. Mar. 6 3:30 pm Trace Adkins $25 & $30 Sun. Mar. 6 7:30 pm The Judds (The Last Encore) $45 Mon. Mar. 7 3:30 pm Charley Pride $15 & $20 Mon. Mar. 7 7:30 pm Clint Black $20 & $25 Tues. Mar. 8 3:30 pm Chubby Checker $15 & $20 Tues. Mar. 8 7:30 pm Chris Young $20 & $25 Wed. Mar. 9 3:30 pm Tanya Tucker $15 & $20 Wed. Mar. 9 7:30 pm Rick Springfield $20 & $25 Thu. Mar. 10 10:30 am The Guy Lombardo Band FREE Thu. Mar. 10 3:30 pm George Jones $15 & $20 Thu. Mar. 10 7:30 pm The Doobie Brothers $25 & $30 Fri. Mar. 11 3:30 pm Ray Price $10 & $15 Fri. Mar. 11 7:30 pm Josh Thompson/ Justin Moore $15 & $20 Sat. Mar. 12 3:30 pm Allstar Weekend & Jennette McCurdy $10 & $15 Sat. Mar. 12 7:30 pm Billy Ray Cyrus $20 & $25 Sun. Mar. 13 3:30 pm Easton Corbin $15 & $20 Sun. Mar. 13 7:30 pm Lady Antebellum $45

Free Grandstand seating, 3:30 & 7:30 pm are on a first come, first seated basis.

Order: www.flstrawberryfestival.com or 813-754-1996

Artists Appearing on the Wish Farms Soundstage:

Concert dates and times are subject to change

AMERICAN HEROES DAY, Wed. Mar. 9All Active, Reserve, Retired Military, Military Veterans , Law

Enforcement, First Responders (EMS & Fire Fighters) admitted Free all day with a valid ID

FESTIVAL FAVORITESDennis Lee • Jay Taylor Band • Runa Pacha

Granpa Cratchet • Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show Rosaire’s Racing Pigs • Bluegrass Parlor Band NEW: Magic of Lance Gifford & Company Rock-It The Robot • The Gothard Sisters

Pirates Of The Colombian Caribbean

LADY ANTEBELLUM

Four Florida teachers have been honored for bringing sci-ence to life for their students by using agriculture lessons such as raising chicken hatchlings in the classroom to operating a fully functioning school farm.

For their efforts, the teachers, who come from all over Florida, were chosen by Florida Agriculture in the Classroom as winners of the 2011 Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture Award.

The award is given to teachers who strive to use agricul-tural concepts to bring science and technical lessons into their everyday classrooms. The teachers chosen went above and beyond by incorporating hands-on lessons that reiterate the importance of agriculture, while showing that science is approachable and enjoyable.

“These teachers have brought complex scientific ideas to everyday general education lessons,” said Vina Jean Banks, chair-man and Florida Beef Council representative for Florida Agricul-ture in the Classroom. “And in doing so, have shown the students that science and agriculture is not only important to everyday life, but is enjoyable and fun as well.”

Lesa Roe, an elementary teacher at Leesburg Elementary in Groveland, was chosen as the elementary school level winner and as the overall Florida winner. Her classroom lessons allowed students throughout the school to have hands-on experiences watching the lifecycle of chickens as well as observing conserva-tion methods by creating a variety of gardens at the school.

At the middle school level, Susan Ferrell, a teacher at Dowdell Magnet School in Plant City, brought aquascience to the classroom with aquariums, hydroponic gardens and fish farm-ing. Emphasis was placed on conserving water and protecting the environment, two important issues in Florida.

The agriscience middle school level award was given to Lisa Friend, a science teacher at Manatee Academy School in Port St. Lucie. Friend incorporated agriculture lessons into the school’s pre-veterinarian program. Using poultry farming to teach biology and the beef industry to discuss economics, Friend incorporated science and agriculture lessons in a concrete manner, anchoring the concepts in students’ minds.

Students at Roosevelt Academy in Lake Wales can’t miss the lessons that Ray Cruze, a science teacher, has brought to the school. Cruze was honored at the high school level for bringing science to life by starting an entire farming business at the school called “Roosevelt Farms,” a self-sustaining business that teaches students not only agriculture skills but business and employabil-ity skills as well. Special needs students run the 10,000-square-foot farm that produces a variety of vegetables that are sold and donated in the community.

“These teachers not only show that agriculture is relevant in today’s society but that agriculture is at the forefront of many modern-day issues,” Banks said. “Science and agriculture must be taught to the next generation for the sake of our country’s future. These teachers have taken the time to pursue that worthy goal.”

The four teachers will be honored at the 2011 National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference to be held June 22-25 in Fort Lauderdale.

Florida Agriculture in the Classroom is a non-profit organi-zation based in Gainesville and charged with helping teachers in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade to educate students about the Florida agriculture industry. The group receives funding from sales of the agriculture specialty license plate called the “Ag Tag.”

For more information on Florida Agriculture in the Class-room, visit: http://www.flagintheclassroom.com/.

Four Florida Teachers Win 2011 Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award

Lesa Roe Susan Ferrell Lisa Friend Ray Cruze


One of my New Year’s resolutions is to investi-gate as many eateries within Polk County boundar-ies as time, rising gas prices and my waistline will allow.

Having been the home of water sports and the famed Cypress Gardens for years, Winter Haven is now heralded as the destination for lovers of all things Lego, with expectations the $150 million-plus transformation into a garden of plastic parts will be completed by October of this year.

My curiosity about what the pending changes may mean to eastern Polk tourism prodded me into putting Winter Haven at the top of my culinary search.

While the area can already boast of almost every variety of fast food and chain restaurants tak-ing up residence, there are some things unchanged with the passage of time, remaining pleasantly removed from all the ongoing hustle and bustle.

Harry’s Old Place started in 1980 with the friendship of Harry Bell and Bruce Johnston more than 30 years ago.

Looking a little worn around the edges, this restaurant (like its owners friendship) has stood the test of time.

For a while they tried to go uptown in order to get the needed extra seats but loyalists liked the original version of Harry’s best so they went back to the Lake Ned location and stayed.

When Johnston married Ginny, she took over the front creative business. Because of the “no res-ervations” rule, she spends a lot of her time dealing with long lines of customers, as well as, meeting and greeting the hordes of regulars who love the owners almost as much as they love the food.

The first thing regulars do is check out the blackboards listing the latest specials and catch-of-the day whose items are in addition to the four-page regular menu.

Harry’s looks like a grouper sandwich place. Well, they’ve got that and escargot too. The best way to describe it is, a friendly rustic place with a little kitsch and food that is a lot rock and roll. Places that can serve great chowders and peel-and-eat fare while effortlessly making the giant leap to Nova Scotia Mussels with garlic butter at $7.95 and the delicacy of Chilean Bass at $21.95 are hard to find.

Owner and Chef Harry Bell hails from Phila-delphia and lays claim to the original Philly onion loaf (the forerunner of the bloomin’ onion), still a featured item for only $4.95.

If its seafood and it’s not on Harry’s menu, you probably can’t find it anywhere. Oysters, scallops, shrimp, catfish, crab, lobster and clams come in almost every conceivable form, from raw to fried, broiled, steamed, grilled, sautéed, and blackened. However, Johnston says he’s also proud

of their steaks, with their menu recommending not ordering steaks well done.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention that seafood comes in a bag too, with the number-one most fre-quently ordered item named, “Harry in the Bag.” This mouth-watering pecan-encrusted grouper in a brown bag is the blue-collar answer to “en papil-lote,” seafood steamed in parchment, originally made famous at Antoine’s in New Orleans before the Civil War.

Well, I’ve eaten at Antoine’s (since the Civil War) and I’ll take “Harry in a Bag” (at market price or around $19.95) over its fancier cousin any day.

Top that off with Ginny’s favorite semi-frozen Key Lime pie with just the right amount of tartness and without any cloying sweetness, the pie makes your mouth feel fresh and clean. The perfect finish at only $2.98.

“This is not just our vocation,” said Ginny. “To us, it’s a lifestyle. We live what we do. If we go on vacation, we’re looking for new food ideas and on the weekends, you’ll find me at the fresh market buying for the restaurant and selling good food from my catering truck. I call the catering side ‘Tallulah’s.’ I guess I just can’t stay away from this business.”

Harry’s Old PlaceCasual dining overlooking Lake NedFeatures a varied seafood menu plus sandwiches, steaks, chicken and pasta. Beer & Wine served. The intimate bar only seats about five people.No reservations—Seating for approximately 90 patronsMenu prices: Soups at $3.25 to a mid-range of lighter fare and entrée’s from $8.95 to $21.95Take-Out available3751 Cypress Gardens Road in Winter HavenPhone: (863) 324-0301Hours: Open from Tues.—Sat. with lunch served from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The restaurant is closed until open again for dinner Tues., Wed. and Thurs., at 5 until 9 PM and Fri. - Sat. from 5 to 10 PM. Sun. hours are seasonal.

by Cheryl Kuck


Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer.

www.fredssouthernkitchen.comfacebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen

Old Fashioned Strawberry Shortcake

Ingredients½ cup soft unsalted butter1 cup sugar2 eggs2 cups sifted all purpose flour½ tsp salt1 tsp baking powder

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

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

Carrot Casserole

Ingredients2 cups cooked carrots, mashed while hot (I use a 1lb bag of baby cut carrots, steamed.)1 stick melted butter1 cup sugar3 tbsp all purpose flour1 tsp baking powder3 eggs well beatendash of cinnamon

PreparationMix ingredients in the order given. Pour into a greased 2 qt baking dish. Bake 15 minutes at 400° then reduce heat to 350° and bake for another 45 minutes.

Submitted by Connie Celoria



Energetic, enthusiastic and endearing are three words that describe Hope Clark Bibby, this month’s woman in agriculture focus. However, it is extraordi-narily important to her that people know, “ranching is a family affair.”

Her father farmed strawberries and bell peppers on the property where her house now stands. Her mother, Ethel Clark, 87, is the “glue that holds us all together,” she says when she points out that Mrs. Clark is still the matriarch of the family. When it’s time to do cattle round-ups, “everybody goes.” They still use horses, dogs and whips and they go prepared with a picnic lunch.

Mrs. Bibby shares ownership of their 300 head cattle ranch with her hus-band, daughter and son. The family is very tight knit with Mrs. Clark living on one side and Mrs. Bibby’s brother living on the other side of their 50 acres. They have an additional 241 acres on Moore Rd.

With faith and family at the forefront of her thoughts, the next thing on her heart is education. “We want to educate people about the cattle industry and every thing that’s associated with ag.” Given this perspective, and the age of her own grandchildren, she felt led to start a 4-H club in their area. What a grand idea that was! Having just started the club in 2009, they were the only 4-H club in Polk County to receive the 2009-2010 Emerald Award based on volunteers, meeting attendance, community service and several other criteria.

This “club is to give back to the community,” and that’s certainly what Mrs. Bibby tries to do. There are 27 members, which makes it one of the larger clubs in the county. “Parents don’t just come and drop kids off, this is a family thing,” she says. Her club has given, “every variety of kid, even those who’ve never been on a farm,” the opportunity to get engaged in agriculture, some-thing she refers to as a “healthy environment.”

She wants kids to know that agriculture isn’t “just cows and plows.” Her club has done a slew of other agriculture related projects from canning to rab-bits and poultry. She believes you “don’t have to be on a farm or have property to promote the things the kids can do that will last them their whole lives.” Which is why next year, she intends to make sure every one of her 4-H kids has a photo in the photography section of the Polk County Youth Fair.

As it stands, her members have done well in the fair’s competitions. Four of them showed hogs on Sunday, January 23, 2011. Three received first prize ribbons and one got second place. What’s even more impressive is the fact that two of them “had never shown animals or been involved in a fair at all.”

The community is very supportive of what Mrs. Bibby does with these kids. There’s a veterinarian who makes house calls to check out the kids’ ani-mals and only charges $25 a visit. There is also a man who raises rabbits and sells them to the kids for $5 instead of his usual $30 rate.

As much as the community gives to Mrs. Bibby and her 4-H club, she tries to return the favor. During her family cattle round-ups she’s invited neighbor-hood children and women from work to participate. She believes that, “it’s a privilege to live on a farm,” a privilege she feels blessed to share with everyone she can.

As far as the business side of Mrs. Bibby and family goes, they have some purebred Brahman and Angus herds that they use to supplement their mixed breed herds or to show. When a calf is born they decide whether it’s going to be a breeder or a show animal. If it doesn’t fit their criteria they sell it at the Polk County Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Market. After all, they are a commercial cattle ranch. She says, “Sometimes you make money and sometimes you don’t. If Oprah gets on TV and says beef’s bad, the market goes down.” (Obviously Oprah has too much power!)

Mrs. Bibby is a member of the Polk County Cattlewomen’s Association. According to her, “you don’t have to have cows, you just have to love beef and Florida’s beef industry,” to join the organization. Then with her charming smile she adds, “Not all good meat comes out of the West.”

By Ginny Mink

WomanIN AGRICULTURE

Mrs. Bibby has been married to the same man for 41 years. They have two grown children and six grandkids, one of whom started riding bulls when he was four years old. She leads the choir at the church she and her family have attended all their lives. But, she says, “Ag is my every-minute-I-can-get-after-work. Ag is my passion.” Just one encounter with her will verify this is true.

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By Captain Dick Loupe

FRESHWATER FISHING IN POLK COUNTY

I’m not so sure that this actually happened that way but, whatever it was, I am sure that something went horribly wrong, which was most likely the result of an oversight.

Many people and organizations discuss boating safety, which generally refers to “on the water” activities. And, as important as that is, I would like to discuss an overlooked issue - proper boat launching procedures. As both a guide and a recreational angler, I frequent a lot of public boat ramps and have seen it done almost every way possible – some good, and some really bad.

First, the boater needs to have their trailer properly attached to their towing vehicle with a properly sized hitch ball to match the trailer tongue. It is a good idea to have a hitch lock to prevent theft. Safety chains should come from both sides of the trailer and attach to the bumper in case the trailer comes off of the hitch. You should have your trailer lights attached to the tow vehicle, whether towing day or night, making sure that everything works – run-ning lights, brake lights, and turn signals. Although your boat is attached to your trailer by the winch strap, on longer hauls it is a good idea to attach the bow eye of the boat to the trailer with an additional mechanism, such as an adjustable double hook, and to have tie-down straps on the back of the boat, on either side of the

This was this guy’s first boat and he was taking it to the lake, but he wasn’t quite sure of the correct procedure for launching a boat off a ramp. However, he figured it couldn’t be that difficult to do, so he stopped by his Union office for advice, and they just told him, “Don’t let the trailer get too deep in the water when you’re launching your boat.”

Well later on, he couldn’t understand what they meant by that, as he could barely get his trailer in the water! Here’s a picture worth a “thousand’ words!

BOAT LAUNCHPREPAREDNESS,SAFETY & ETIQUETTE

motor, attaching to the trailer. There are a number of different types available at your local marine dealer or at Payes Trailer Parts located south of Lake Wales on Highway 60. Smaller motors have pins to raise the motor, but if you have a large motor, a motor-toter is also a good idea because it greatly reduces the stress on the boat’s transom while towing. Put the gear shift in gear so your prop won’t be turning while going down the road, which can dam-age the bearings. Also, if you are trailering your boat on a long trip you should have a snug cover which will protect the inside of your boat and increase your gas mileage.

Boat UnloadingBefore lining up with the ramp, stop in a “pre-stage” area

out of the way of those currently launching and do the following preparations:

• Removealltie-downsorropes,motorpinsormotor toter, cover, and security mechanism from the bow eye, leaving the winch strap secured.• Putthedrainpluginsecurely.• Placewhateveritemsyouaretakingwithyouthat have not already been put into the boat, such as a cooler, camera, towels, sunscreen, rods and reels, etc.• Puttheboatkeyintotheignitionandmakesurethat your fuel bulb is taut.• Checkthatyourenginewillstartbyturningitovertillit does and then immediately turn it back off.• Lookattheramptoassesstheconditionoftheramp,the length and steepness, and the water level.• Ifyouarenotalone,determinewhowillbacktheboat

and who will be in the boat, verifying what hand signalsto use.

• Ifyouarealone,dooneoftwothings:1) Have a long enough rope attached to the bow eye to be able to float your boat off and then pull it over to the dock or the bank so you can immediately pull your trail-er off of the ramp, or 2) Ask another boater that is waiting to launch if he/she would be so kind as to help you.

Once you feel that you are thoroughly prepared, proceed to the ramp and, if all clear, line your vehicle and trailer up as straight as possible in line with the ramp. Back slowly using your side and rearviewmirrorsifpossible.Remember,whenyouturnyourve-hicle’s tires one way, your trailer will aim the opposite way. Make adjustments gradually in small amounts for best results. Back the boat in just far enough for it to float, but where you can get to the

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Here is a list of public ramps in Polk County: Lake Garfield; Surveyor’sLake;LakeMariana;PeaceRiverCanoeLaunch;LakeAnnie; Lake Pierce; Lake Arbuckle Park; Lake Livingston; Lake ReedyPark;LakeWalk-in-Water;LittleCrookedLake;LakeBuf-fum; Lake Confusion; Lake Hamilton; Lake Marion; Banana Lake; Crystal Lake; Lake Deeson; Lake Gibson; Lake Parker East-side;SaddleCreekPark;LakeRosaliePark;LakeAgnes;LakeTen-nessee; Mudd Lake; Lake Blue North; Lake Cannon; Lake Conine Park; Lake Daisey; Lake Deer; Lake Elbert; Lake Howard; Lake Jessie;LakeRoy;LakeSears;LakeShipp;LakeSummit

Help keep and improve public access to Polk County’s waters byparticipatinginorattendingtheRampin’ItUpBigBassBenefitTournament on Saturday, April 9 at Lake Shipp Park. Info is avail-able at your local tackle shops or at friendsoftheparks.net.

Come see me at the Bridgemaster/Katydid ex-hibitors booth and say “Hi.”

Captain Dick LoupeSouthern Outdoorsman Guide ServiceKatydid Fishing Products, LLCMore TacklePO Box 7870Indian Lake Estates, FL 33855888-692-2208www.bassfishingguide.comwww.katydidfishingproducts.comwww.moretackle.com

bow without stepping into the water. Stop there so you can then detach the winch strap. Again, if you are alone and there is no one available to help, holding onto the rope that is tied to the bow eye, push the boat clear of the trailer and secure it either to the launch dock or to the shore. If you have someone in the boat, ask them to start the motor and then continue backing the boat gradually, being careful not to allow the trailer wheels to fall off the ramp, until the boat driver is able to back the boat clear of the trailer. Usually, this is when the trailer wheels just become submerged in the water. Once the boat is clear, gradually pull forward with the trailer and proceed to the trailer parking area, making sure that you park in the same fashion and alignment as everyone else. Put your vehicle’s keys away securely in a pocket before leaving land so as not to accidently drop them into the water.

Boat LoadingAgain, making sure that your vehicle keys are secure in a

pocket before leaving the boat, pull your boat up to the launch dock or shoreline out of the way of launching boats. If the ramp is busy, get in line somewhere in the “pre-stage” area. When it is your turn, line up with the ramp in the same manner as you did for unloading. Back the trailer into the water slowly until the wheels of the trailer are just barely submerged or, if you are not alone, at whatever degree your boat driver signals to you.

If you do have assistance, get out of the vehicle so you can assist the boat driver to align the boat onto the trailer, approach-ing it slowly but with enough speed to maintain direction. Once the boat meets up with the trailer’s hull supports the driver should slightly increase the throttle to cozy the bow up to the trailer’s bow stop. Once they meet, hook the winch strap and tighten securely.

If you are loading your boat by yourself, go get it and either drive it on yourself or, if you are not proficient with that proce-dure, use the bow rope to guide it onto the hull supports and, once aligned properly, pull out and attach the winch strap to the bow eye. Crank the winch until the boat is securely against the bow stop.

Slowly pull the boat out of the water up onto the ramp. If there is no other boat waiting to launch, you can stop once you have completely cleared the water. Otherwise, you should con-tinue to pull out of the way of other launchers. Prepare your boat for towing by reattaching all tie-downs, ropes and security mecha-nisms, removing all items that may blow out, turning off all elec-tronics, removing the plug, propping the motor up and putting it into gear. Make sure that your lights and safety chains are still attached. Also, check your trailer for any grass that may have be-come attached during launch to eliminate transfer to another lake.

Boat SafetyEveryone should be familiar with both state and local boat-

ing laws. Current regulation booklets are usually available wher-ever fishing licenses are sold or are available online at myfwc.com.

In addition, you will need to pack the right equip-ment, such as personal flotation devices, fire extinguish-ers, visual distress signals, marine radios, navigation lights and sound-producing devices. Complete informa-tion on regulations and equipment standards can also be found on the U.S. Coast Guard’s boating safety website at www.uscgboating.org.

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

RadishAn amazing root vegetable that is often carved into a decora-

tive garnish, the radish packs a big nutritional punch, as well as a mild peppery flavor. As a member of the Brassicaceae family, radishes are related to other cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage.

Florida is the top radish producing state in the United States. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture, the state harvests over 30 percent of the country’s radish acreage and the value of the state’s radish crop is estimated at $30 million a year. Florida radishes are available from October through June and are at their peak now. Florida radishes have a crisp texture and an earthy, spicy taste.

Nutritional ProfileRadishes are not only delicious, but also very low in calories

and free of fat, cholesterol, and sodium. The entire vegetable is edible, including its green leafy tops, reddish skin, and white flesh. In fact, the leafy green tops of radishes contain six times the amount of vitamin C found in the root, as well as iron, cal-cium and thiamine.

Along with the other cruciferous vegetables, radishes contain multiple anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial compounds. Eating more cruciferous vegetables have been associated with a lower incidence of a variety of cancers, including those of the lung, colon, breast, ovaries and bladder. Current research studies have shown that people who eat the most cruciferous vegetables have a much lower risk of prostate, colorectal and lung cancers, even when compared to those who regularly eat other vegetables.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one half cup of raw sliced radish (58 g) contains 9 calories, 0.39 g protein, 0.06 g fat, 1.97 g carbohydrate, and 0.9 g of dietary fiber. It also provides 14 percent for vitamin C, 4 percent for potassium, dietary fiber, and folate, 2 percent for vitamin B6 and manganese, and significant amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, riboflavin, vitamin K, and zinc.

Vitamin CVitamin C is important for a healthy immune system, cancer

prevention, healthy blood circulation and wound healing. It may also offer protection from heart disease. By neutralizing harmful free radicals, antioxidants prevent damage to the artery walls, which could later lead to plaque formation and subsequent nar-rowing of the vessel. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may decrease the risk of cancer by protecting cells from free radical damage.

This vitamin has many other useful roles. It may aid in preventing cataracts, a leading cause of blindness in older adults. Also involved in wound healing, vitamin C is important in col-lagen production. This vitamin also helps the body absorb more iron and aids in the development of strong bones and teeth.

Current research findings support that Vitamin C’s ben-efits come from consumption of whole fruits and vegetables. A

high intake of produce, including radishes, is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes, including heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Taking supplements does not seem to provide the same protective benefits as eating raw or cooked produce.

PotassiumPotassium plays an important role in muscle contraction,

nerve function and blood pressure regulation. In the heart and other muscles, this electrolyte is essential for the contrac-tion and relaxation of muscles. Potassium is also required for energy metabolism and is involved in protein and carbohydrate metabolism. This mineral is important for normal growth and for building muscle. Along with sodium, potassium regulates the water balance and the acid-base balance in the body. In nerve cells, potassium plays an essential role in the conduction of nerve impulses. It also helps generate muscle contractions and regulates the heartbeat. Radishes and many other fruits and vegetables are rich sources of this important mineral.

Fiber Radishes and other cruciferous vegetables contain a signifi-

cant amount of dietary fiber, which can help lower cholesterol, assist with digestion, and prevent constipation. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, a diet high in fiber may decrease the risk of several types of cancer including colon, rectum, breast, and pancreas.

How to Select and StoreChoose smooth, brightly colored radishes that are free of

blemishes or soft spots. If the green leafy tops are still attached, they should look fresh and bright in color. Pick smaller ones, which usually have a better flavor than larger ones. Radishes can be refrigerated in a perforated plastic bag for up to 10-14 days, but remove tops before storing.

How to EnjoyIn addition to using radishes in salads or carving them into

swans and roses, try some other exciting ways of eating them:• Shredded and used as a sandwich topper • Pickled• Sliced and tossed in a stir-fry• Sautéed with butter and herbs• Roasted with olive oil in the oven• Baked and mashed as an addition to mashed potatoes• Braised with apple juice• Grated and added to chicken or tuna salad

Enjoy fresh Florida radishes today. With their satisfying crunch and peppery flavor, radishes can add flavor to any dish as well as boost its nutrition at the same time.

Selected Referenceshttp://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/http://www.florida-agriculture.comhttp://www.ipmcenters.org/cropprofiles/docs/FLradish.pdf


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

I remember a few years back my wife and I were at Busch Gardens sitting outside on the patio of one of their African styled restaurants. Patsy was about half way through her sandwich when out of blue down comes a seagull and snatches it out of her hand. That got me to thinking. Those guys have a smart marketing department. First they offer a great value and have developed a wonderful family entertainment venue. But many people are not aware that most zoos have a method to help to pay to feed the birds and various animals. Just put a quarter in the re-vamped gum machine, hold your hand at the bottom of the chute, and turn the handle. There you have it. You pay to feed them even after paying your admission to the zoo.

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

Seeing the elephants at Busch Gardens reminded me of a story that Johnny Ryals told me. The story is that a man from Northwestern University went on a hike through the bush and came across a young bull elephant with one leg raised in the air. The elephant seemed distressed so he approached it very

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

Twenty years later, the same man was walking through the Chicago Zoo with his teenaged son. As they approached the elephant enclosure, one of the creatures turned and walked over to near where he and his son were standing. The large bull elephant stared at him, lifted its front foot off the ground, then put it down. The elephant did that several times then trumpeted loudly, all the while staring at the man.

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

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

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

“Okay,” says the son. A few minutes later the son asks, “Mom,

why have I got these great long eyelashes?” “They are there to keep the sand out of your eyes on the long

trips through the desert.”“Thanks Mom,” replies the son. After a short while, the son

returns and asks, “Mom, why have I got these great big humps on my back?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Walking the nature trails early in the morning in Colt Creek State Park a person never knows what they will see and hear. As the fog lifts from the pines and saw palmetto a glimpse of a whitetail deer isn’t uncommon. Listen closer and the cry of a bobcat echoes throughout the oak hammocks. People spend hundreds of dollars to visit man made theme parks but one of central Florida’s best kept secrets is just a short drive north of Lakeland within the Green Swamp region. And with plans on expanding the recreational opportunities in the near future, park manager Scott Spaulding is excited.

“This park is a work in progress,” Spaulding said. “We are looking forward to opening a new screened in 18 table picnic pavilion area with restroom facilities and also the new fishing pier (expected to open March 2011) which will really enhance the experience for folks who visit us.”

Located 16 miles north of Lakeland with three natural creeks running across the 5,067 acres, Colt Creek’s history goes back several decades. Originally one of the largest working cattle ranches in the area the park came about after the Overstreet fam-ily sold the land to the state in 2006.

“Being a large cattle ranch presented a few challenges,” Spaulding said. “For one thing the last of the cattle weren’t removed for some time after we opened the park so it limited the access visitors had. But we didn’t mind as the cattle industry has been a huge part of Florida’s heritage and economy since the Spanish brought the first cattle over hundreds of years ago. But before long we were able to expand our trails and we now offer 12 miles of marked trails for horseback riding hiking, and biking.”

In 2007 the Lake Region Audubon Society spent a year exploring the park for different species and after their survey they recorded over 150 different bird species and 79 different butterfly species that call Colt Creek home. Wildlife that wanders Colt Creek includes deer, turkey, bobcat, raccoons and a number of other species. Located within the Green Swamp region the loca-tion really gives Colt Creek a wildlife advantage over many parks in Florida.

“You really never know what you might see,” Spaulding said. “One species that sometimes surprises visitors, especially those from out of state, are the Sherman Fox Squirrels. Two to three

times as large as a gray squirrel the fox squirrel population here is one of the best I’ve seen.”

Along with nature lovers, Colt Creek welcomes equestrian enthusiasts and has plans to expand that aspect of the park as funding becomes available.

“Our park is a beautiful place for those who want to ride their horses and we have many that do now,” Spaulding said. “It is based on funding, but our Unit Management Plan identifies developing additional facilities including a 60 site RV/tent camp-ing area, 20 equestrian campsites, 8 vacation cabins and park concession including horse rentals.”

One plan that has already set in motion is the fishing/obser-vation pier that will open tentatively in March.

“The pier extends out 50 feet then has 50 feet on either end for those wanting to get closer to the water and fish or just ob-serve nature,” Spaulding said.

“We have three readily accessible lakes now that were a by-product of limestone mining back in the 90’s and although they aren’t natural lakes they sure fit in and most people wouldn’t know the difference.”

The three lakes ranging from two to 25 acres offer some ex-cellent fishing opportunities with most native Florida fish species available in great abundance. Paul Thomas, a biologist with the FWC Lakeland office, actually fishes Colt Creek himself.

“It’s a very good fishery and the fish population is in good shape,” Thomas said. “I enjoy taking my kayak out and drift fishing the big lake and always do real well. Bass are catch and release and that is important to keeping the populations where they will be best for fishing success, but the catfish, bluegill and shellcracker are all harvestable.”

As Spaulding stated the park is a work in progress but it gets better everyday.

“Compared to where we started from with just a few tables, dirt roads and bathroom, the park has really matured,” Spauld-ing said. “Accessibility and amenities have really improved since we opened the gate four years ago and I’m excited to see where we will be four more years from now. We are really fortunate in Florida to have such a great balance of nature and wildlife and we hope more residents take time to come out and explore origi-nal natural Florida, what we like to call The Real Florida.”

Colt Creek State Parkby Mark Cook


Mike Joyner, Assistant Commissioner/Chief of Staff: Joyner has more than 25 years experi-ence building partnerships between the private and public sectors to advance common-sense business, natural resource and environmental policies. He joins the Department from the private sector after having previously served as Chief of Staff at the Department of Envi-ronmental Protection and stints at the Florida Farm Bureau and Florida Forestry Associa-tion.

Marion Aller, Acting Deputy Commissioner: Aller joined the Department in 1986. She has previously served as Director of Food Safety and held several technical positions in the Bu-reau of Pesticides, rising to Chief in 1992.

Jay Levenstein, Deputy Commissioner: Lev-enstein joined the Department in November 1993. Prior to his role as Deputy Commission-er under Commissioner Bronson, he served as the Department’s State-Federal Relations Director, Legislative Affairs Director, Chief of the Bureau of Animal Disease Control and Senior Attorney.

Shannon Shepp, Acting Deputy Commission-er: Shepp joined the Department in 2001 as as-sistant division director and has served as the Fruit and Vegetables Division Director since 2004. Prior to the Department, her career in-cluded public affairs management in the citrus and home building industries and service as a legislative assistant in the Florida Legislature.

Jim Boxold, Director of Cabinet Affairs: Box-old joined the Department in 2003 and served as Commissioner Bronson’s Chief Cabinet Aide. Prior to joining the Department, he

served as a Cabinet Aide to Governor Jeb Bush and worked as Legislative Director for Con-gressman Porter Goss.

Cheryl Flood, Director of External Affairs: Flood joins the Department after having served as the Chief of Staff for Congressman Adam Putnam. She previously worked in the Department as Deputy Legislative Affairs Di-rector under Commissioner Bronson.

Matt Joyner, Director of Federal Affairs: Joyner comes to the Department from the pri-vate sector in the financial services arena after having previously served as Chief of Staff and District Director to Congressman Adam Put-nam.

Grace Lovett, Director of Legislative Affairs: Lovett comes to the Department from the Florida Department of Environmental Protec-tion, where she served as Deputy Director and Acting Director of the Office of Legislative Af-fairs. She has also previously worked for the Florida Public Service Commission, The Ru-bin Group and Florida Credit Unions.

Lorena Holley, General Counsel: Holley joins the Department after having served as the Senior Attorney in the Office of the General Counsel Division of Economic Regulation and Division of Appeals, Rules and Mediation at the Florida Public Service Commission since January. Prior to this role, she served the PSC as Chief Advisor to the Commissioner.

Ronald Russo, Inspector General: Russo has more than 20 years of law enforcement leader-ship experience. He most recently served as the Florida Department of Transportation’s In-

spector General, where he supervised all state-wide internal personnel misconduct cases, as well as criminal investigations and internal and external audits.

Sherman Wilhelm, Director of Policy and Budget: Wilhelm joined the Department in 1986 as Staff Counsel to the Commissioner, a position he held for 13 years. In 1999, he was promoted to Director of the Division of Aqua-culture and has been serving the Department in this capacity since.

Sterling Ivey, Press Secretary: Ivey joins the Department after having served as the Gover-nor’s Press Secretary since 2008. His previous experience includes Communications Director for the Department of State, Assistant Super-intendent of Communications for the Pinellas County School Board, Public Affairs Director for the Department of Corrections and the Polk County Sheriff’s office.

Mike Gresham, Director, Division of Admin-istration: Gresham joined the Department as Director of Administration in January. Prior to working for DACS, he served as Director of Administration at the Department of Insur-ance and Support Services for the Department of Revenue.

Andy Rackley, Director, Division of Agricul-ture Environmental Services: Rackley was ap-pointed Director of the Division of Agricul-ture Environmental Services in 2008 after more than 30 years in private business.

Jerry Bryan, Director, Division of Agriculture Law Enforcement: Bryan joined the Depart-ment in 1994 and served in three other capaci-

ties within the Office of Agriculture Law En-forcement before being promoted to Director.

Rich Budell, Director, Division of Agriculture Water Policy: Budell joined the Department in 1985 and served as Assistant Director of the Office of Water Policy, Assistant Director of the Division of Agricultural Environmental Services and Chief of the Bureau of Pesticides before being promoted to his current position.

Dr. Thomas Holt, Director, Division of Ani-mal Industry: Holt joined the Department as the State Veterinarian and Director of the Di-vision of Animal Industry in 2004 after retir-ing from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Leslie Palmer-Boxold, Director, Division of Aquaculture: Palmer-Boxold has served the Department since 2002 as the Director of Federal and State Relations, having previously served at the Department of Environmental Protection.

Tom Steckler, Acting Director, Division of Consumer Services: Steckler joined the De-partment in 1997 and most recently served as Assistant Director of Standards and Assistant Director of Consumer Services.

John Miller, Director, Division of Dairy In-dustry: Miller has been with the Department since 1990, previously serving as Chief of Dairy Laboratories, certified as a Milk Labo-ratory Evaluation Officer, and Chief of Dairy Inspection within the Division.

Lee Cornman, Acting Director, Division of Food Safety: Cornman joined the Department in 2005 and has almost 40 years of experience

in food safety and operations.

Jim Karels, Director, Division of Forestry: Karels has been the Director for the Division of Forestry since 2008. In this position, he oversees all wildland fire and management.

Ellen Prince, Acting Director, Division of Fruits and Vegetables: Prince joined the De-partment in 2003 after having worked for the Processed Products Branch of USDA for 35 years.

Connie Crawford, Director, Division of Li-censing: Crawford joined the Division of Li-censing in 1985 and was appointed Director in 2008.

Nelson Mongiovi, Director, Division of Mar-keting and Development: Mongiovi joined the Department in 1987 from Gannett Broadcast-ing. Throughout his career he has garnered three Emmy Awards, a National Gabriel, and more than two dozen Associated Press and United Press International awards.

Dr. Wayne Dixon, Acting Director, Division of Plant Industry: Dixon joined the Department in 1980 and has served as Assistant Director and Bureau Chief of Entomology, Nematol-ogy and Plan Pathology for the Division of Plant Industry before his current position.

Izzy Rommes, Director, Division of Standards: Rommes joined the Department in 1993 and has previously served as the Chief of the Bu-reau of Fair Rides Inspection and Assistant Director of Standards.

On December 21, 2010, Commissioner-Elect Putnam announced staff appointments for the Department of Agriculture and Con-sumer Services. Mike Joyner joins Putnam’s team as Assistant Commissioner and Chief of Staff with Marion Aller, Shannon Shepp and Jay Levenstein as Deputy Commissioners.

“Five weeks ago, Commissioner-Elect Putnam asked us to put the best team on the field to serve the people of Florida,” said Transi-tion Team Executive Director, Trey McCarley. “Through the tireless work of the Transition Team I am confident that these individuals provide the necessary proactive, progressive and innovative leadership needed to make the Department second to none.”

“I would like to thank the transition team for the countless hours that have gone into assisting in the selection of the following individuals to join the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,” said Putnam. “We are fortunate to be handed a strong de-partment by Commissioner Bronson and I want to thank him and his staff for the seamless transition.”

The announced appointments include the following:

Adam Putnam’s Dream Team


TRACTORS

Efficiency has never been so easy with the NEW “Boomer” series. If you are looking for a responsive, hard working, comfortable compact tractor then look no further than the NEW Boomer compact tractor from New Holland. They are the ultimate power tool for homeowners, rural lifestylers, landscapers, farmers, golf courses and municipalities.

The Power You NeedQuiet, fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines give you the power you need for loading, mowing, digging, tilling, and so much more. You get fast implement response and steering thanks to the high –capacity, dual-pump hydraulic system.

The Best VisibilityThe slopped hood of Boomer tractors not only looks great, it makes your job easier with phenomenal forward visibility. Your

view is enhanced with a lighting package that’s the best in the busi-ness, illuminating your work area to both front and side to make you more productive and safe when operating in the early or late hours of the day.

Operating EaseThe word “easy” defines Boomer tractors. Controls come easily to hand, the seat and steering wheel adjust to match every opera-tor, and the large uncluttered operating platform gives you plenty of legroom to stretch out. Controls are color-coded and clearly marked so you are confident of your every move.

Smooth Speed ChangesChoose your Boomer model, then choose your transmission - a smooth, synchronized gear transmission or a hydrostatic trans-mission. A 12X12 synchronized shuttle shift (SSS) transmission on smaller models or a 16X16 SSS transmission on larger models makes it easy to shift between forward and reverse repeatedly. Because shuttle shifts are synchronized, there’s no need to come to a complete stop before shuttling or changing gears.

Proven Maneuverability and TractionYour Boomer tractor is designed to get you in and out of tight spots and maneuver easily around obstacles. Four-wheel drive gives you the traction you need to get through rough patches. When the going gets tough, simply step on the differential lock foot pedal and both rear wheels lock together for added traction to get through snow, mud or rough slippery ground.

Ready For Any JobWhether you need to load mulch, mow the lawn, clear a pasture, dig a trench, till the garden, clean stalls or install a fence, Boomer tractors are for you. These tractors make it easy to change imple-ments so you can move quickly from job to job.

•Category 1 three-point hitch •Two optional rear hydraulic remotes •Independent, electro-hydraulic 540-rpm rear PTO •Available mid PTO to power mid- and front-mount implements •Dozens of matching accessories, implements and attachments to match your needs

Simple ServiceBoomer tractors are a snap to maintain. Checkpoints are easy to reach and the flip-up hood give you complete access to the engine.

Make sure to visit us today and find out why Boomer tractors give you big-tractor reliability wrapped in a compact, maneuver-able package. They’re loaded with features that keep you com-fortable with saving you time and money. Dollar for dollar you’ll find that Boomer tractors are the ultimate value.

NEW Holland Boomer Compact Tractors—4 models to choose from— economy priced tractors ranging from $13,000 to $21,000.

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www.landigtractor.comEconomical and easy to operate cab tractor designed for gen-eral purpose farming and ag, livestock operations and grounds maintenance. Tractors key uses: Lawn and ground maintenance, Landscaping, Small Farm and Horse Ranch, Construction and Maintenance, Material Handling

• #1 selling tractor in the world• 5-year powertrain warranty• Attractive financing options• Heavy-duty cast-iron chassis• Professional grade components• Japan quality medal winner• Deming application prize winner• Industry-leading parts support

If your looking for a solid built work horse loaded with standard features that out spec the competition and sells at an economy price look no further! The 4010 has a powerful reliable 49 hp 4 cylinder engine, great serviceability access, hood lifts high, panels come off, no tools required. Has a wide entry with left and right hand access, fully flat platform with a comfortable padded rub-ber floor mat and the shifters are at operators sides, not on the floor.

The Mahindra 5010 is a heavy built machine. Heavier three point linkage (higher lift cap), standard rear remote valve. The platform is comfortable for the operator with great visibility, tilt steering, push button independent PTO, adjustable suspension seat, 9x3 transmission.

Come in today to find out all the features that come with the 5010 model. Alvie at Grove Equipment is excited about these tractors, especially the cab model, so be sure to call Alvie today!

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2011 In The Field Tractors in Review



When you drive into the FX Bar Ranch near Frostproof on the far south side of Lake Weohyakapka in an area well known as “The Ridge,” you are not surprised to see cattle, but as you get closer the grazing cattle look different. They are smaller than the cattle you typically see at other ranches in Polk County and almost appear delicate with their fine features.

Different they are. They are Zebu cattle and just one of the exotic species that reside at FX Bar Ranch. Zebu cattle are known to be one of the oldest breeds of cattle, possibly dating back as far as 6000 B.C. This breed traces back to southern India, a principal cattle raising area of that country, and cattle known as “Nadudana” or small cattle. A few of these were imported in the 1920’s for zoological gardens in the U.S.

In 1991 Nadudana Zebu owners and others interested in the breed met in Macon, Missouri and formed the International Zebu Association, IMZA, a non-profit corporation that collects, records and preserves the pedigrees of miniature Zebu cattle. IMZA also publishes a breeding registry, stimulates and regu-lates all matters that pertain to the history, breeding, exhibition, promotion and improvement of the breed. But there’s more to FX Bar Ranch than Zebu cattle.

This story had its beginnings with some significant land

acquisitions by W.R. “Riley” Fewox, Sr. in various locations in central Florida. Riley is the father of W.R. Fewox, Jr., who with his wife Joyce and their four daughters, Deleen (Dawes) Danette (DeVane), Dorinda (Hendry) and Darla (Bell) worked hard to make FX Bar Ranch what it is today.

The four Fewox daughters and their families all reside in the immediate area and spend time with their parents at the ranch. The whole family continues to worship and be actively involved at Emmanuel Baptist Fellowship where they joined when they first moved to Frostproof.

Deleen has overseen the care of the animals on the ranch since 1990. She and Willie have two children and they raise beef cattle and water buffalo on their ranch in Bereah. Danette has been secretary-bookkeeper for the ranch since 1987. She and Kyle, a retired lineman for Progress Energy, raise beef and Zebu cattle. They have two children. Dorinda and Berry own and manage rental properties. Dorinda home schools their two chil-dren and she and one of her daughters volunteer at the Choices Pregnancy Care Center in Avon Park. Darla and Matt have three children. She teaches in Lake Wales at Candlelight Christian Academy and Matt is an owner of the Bell and Van Grondelle CPA firm.

The nine grandchildren, who represent the family’s fourth generation of Floridians, enjoy roaming at FX Bar Ranch, hunting, viewing the diverse animal population and letting their grandparents spoil them “just a little.” They especially love to play around Grammy’s Koi pond and feed the pet deer.

Riley passed away when W.R. was just 15 and a student at Brandon High School. The family at that time was living on a cattle operation they owned in the Dover area. “My mother Gladys and I partnered and continued to operate our Dover ranch until I married Joyce and we moved to Wauchula and be-gan to oversee and work that 1,860 acre parcel my father owned.” That was a beef cattle ranch that the old Gardinier Phosphate Company (now Cargill) found attractive and made an offer to Fewox that culminated in an April 1976 sale, leading to the acqui-sition of the land now known as FX Bar Ranch.

“We did not move to our current location until 1978,” said Fewox. “We continued to live in Wauchula while building a home on the new ranch and making moving plans.”

Initially, FX Bar Ranch was 3,805 acres and the operation included beef cattle and citrus. The cattle operation grew to 600 head and 123-acres were devoted to citrus: Navel, Hamlin and Valencia. A Murcott grove was destroyed during the hurricanes

of 2004. Fewox saw the need to diversify in 1980 and that’s when the

move to exotics began. “There was an opportunity for us to raise and sell exotics and we took advantage of it,” said Fewox. FX Bar Ranch has five different species of deer: Sika, Fallow, Pere David’s, Axis and Red. The ranch also is also a place where three types of Water Buffalo roam.

At one time, the ranch had 200 head of water buffalo, 600 head of beef cattle and nearly 1,000 domestic deer. A few words about the deer since their presence at the ranch offered an ad-ditional opportunity for diversification – hunting.

Sika Deer, also known as the Spotted or Japanese Deer, are native to much of East Asia and are medium-sized about 37-inches at the shoulder, weighing up to 150 pounds. They are regarded as a prized and elusive sportsman’s quarry.

Fallow Deer are a bit taller than Sika and weigh approxi-mately the same. A Eurasian deer, Fallow have been introduced in several areas of the United States where they are often hunted on large game ranches.

Pere David’s Deer, originally from China, is a deer species known only in captivity and the greatest number in Florida reside at FX Bar Ranch. “I also believe our ranch is one of the top five

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locations for Pere David’s in this country,” said Fewox. Pere Da-vid’s deer is larger, standing about 45-inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 440 pounds.

The Chital or Axis Deer commonly inhabits the wooded regions of Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Pakistan. It stands about three-feet at the shoulder and weighs approximately 190-pounds at maturity.

Red Deer are one of the largest deer species and inhabits most of Europe and parts of western and central Asia, as well as northwestern Africa. It is the only deer species to inhabit Africa. Weighing up to 530-pounds at maturity, the Red Deer measures up to four-feet at the shoulder.

Given the varied and exotic species of deer at FX Bar Ranch it is no surprise that hunting became an attraction early on after deer were introduced to the ranch. “We had a lodge and groups often staying overnight on hunting visits,” said Fewox. Two oc-currences changed that as the man who oversaw the hunting op-eration retired and the economy turned. “We do have occasional interest in hunting, but those are single day visits,” he noted.

Earlier in the business many of the deer were sold to regu-lated facilities in Missouri and Tennessee, as well as other parts of the country as breeding stock. There’s an especially interesting story about water buffalo, which are also sold as breeding stock. Few know that true 100 percent Mozzarella Cheese is made from the milk of water buffalo. “That is not the case in this country, but it is in Europe and particularly Italy,” said Fewox. That milk is also used to produce cottage cheese, ice cream and yogurt. “We have sold some of our water buffalo to dairies in Vermont and California where they produce pure Mozzarella Cheese, which sells at a significant premium.” Water buffalo meat is known as a

tender, healthy red meat. USDA has tested the meat and reported it has 41 percent less cholesterol, 92 percent less fat and 56 per-cent fewer calories than beef.

While many can appreciate the demands of operating a beef cattle ranch, Fewox and his family have always found time to give back and help pave the way for cattlemen and ranchers of tomorrow. “All of our daughters were active participants in FFA, including the annual Polk County Youth Fair,” said Fewox, who had been involved with the Hardee County Farm Bureau before moving to Polk County where he served for many years as a director of the Cattlemen’s Association.

In 1986 he was a founding member of the Frostproof FFA Alumni Association and its president for two decades. “Our fam-ily volunteers at alumni functions, including the annual dinner and auction. FFA is an important organization for our youth and we want to support current members through contributions and scholarships. They represent the future of our industry,” said Fewox.

Six years ago, FX Bar Ranch, Inc., the corporation com-prised of W.R., his wife and their daughters, decided to sell the eastern half of the ranch. W.R. has had some health problems and as he approaches retirement, it appears that the remaining acreage will eventually be sold. “God has blessed us with more than three decades of a good life here, but times are changing and our daughters and their families have varied interests,” said Fewox. “Agriculture has been a great part of our lives and we will continue to be involved and raise livestock. In Jeremiah, the 29th chapter, it says that the Lord has plans for you. We feel he has special plans for our family and we have been wonderfully blessed by Him.”


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On Thursday January 20, Polk County FFA members merged to compete for a spot in the state finals. Numerous FFA events require students to win both the sub-district and district contests before they have a chance to compete at the state contest. The events held at the district contest were Prepared Public Speaking, Extemporane-ous Speaking, Creed Speaking, Tractor Operations and Parliamentary Procedure. Middle School FFA members also have a chance to compete in the Opening and Clos-ing Ceremonies contest.

The first contest, Prepared Public Speaking, challenged FFA member’s speaking ability. Students are required to write a six to eight minute speech on any agricultural topic of their choice and recite it to a panel of judges. The students are scored on the manuscript composition, as well as their ability to present the speech. The winners will compete in the state championship contest in Orlando this June. First place in the high school contest went to Shelby Oesterreicher from Bartow FFA, followed by Morgan Carlton from Kathleen FFA. Patrick Noriss from Crystal Lake Middle School won the middle school division, followed by Madeline Howerin from Dundee Ridge in second place.

Extemporaneous Speaking challenges a student’s ability to perform under pres-sure. Students select a random agricultural topic and then have 30 minutes to prepare and present a four to six minute speech to a panel of judges. The students who com-pete in this event are definitely required to stay on top of current agricultural issues. Hannah Terrabonne from Frostproof Sr FFA took first place and will move on to the state contest. Skylar Hamilton from Lake Gibson FFA was the runner up in the event. Hayley Fletcher from Lake Gibson Middle School FFA won the middle school division.

Polk FFA District Contests

High School District Parliamentary Procedure Winners: DistrictParPro: (Left to right): Nathaniel Lawson, Charity Bowe, Shelby Oester-reicher (District President), Patience Costine, Bonnie Tyer, Morgan Carlton

District Prepared Winner and High School Extemporaneous Winner, Hannah Terrabone and Shelby Oesterreicher, District President

Shelby Oesterreicher, District President and Hayley Fletcher, Middle School District Extemporaneous Winner

Shelby Oesterreicher, District President and Patrick Noriss, District Prepared Winner

40 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE February 2011 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com www.InTheFieldMagazine.com February 2011 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 41www.InTheFieldMagazine.com February 2011 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 41

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The FFA Creed is a five paragraph statement of beliefs that all FFA members are required to know. The Creed contest requires students in grades 7-9 to recite the Creed and answer questions relating to its meaning. The winner of this event was Loral Miller from Tenoroc FFA, followed by Maegan Meredith from Berkley Acceler-ated Middle School FFA in second place and Douglas Batson from Frostproof Sr FFA in third place.

Tractor Operations involves a lot more than just driving a tractor. Students in this event are required to taken a written exam on tractor maintenance, safety and op-erating procedures. The students are required to navigate a tractor and trailer through a course within a specified time frame. This contest definitely requires knowledge and skill. Waylon Walker from the Haines City FFA chapter won the event and Josh Nettles from Lake Region finished in second.

Parliamentary Procedure requires a team of six students to work together to debate a topic using correct parliamentary procedure. Students are also asked to com-plete a written exam and answer oral questions on their given motions. Not only does this event require teamwork, it requires lots of studying and practice. This year Kath-leen FFA came out on top as District winners. Team members were Morgan Carlton, Nathaniel Lawson, Bonnie Tyer, Charity Bowe, Tyler Wilford and Patience Costine. Bartow FFA finished in second place. In the middle school division Bartow Middle FFA placed first. Team members were Rachel Locke, Katy Locke, Kristan Langdale, Hunter Westmoreland, Emily Grant and Devin Dye. Kathleen Middle School FFA finished in second place.

All FFA members, conferences and conventions are opened by officers reciting the FFA Opening and Closing Ceremonies. This requires the officer to explain the mean-ing of their office’s symbol and their duties as a FFA officer. This year the Dundee Ridge Middle School won the district contest and will be competing at the state event in June. Team members are Cheyenne Payne, Madeline Howerin, Katrina Perkins, Spencer Maldonado, Caleb Hallinan, Kaleb Williams and Morgan Goodwill.

Congratulations to all the winners. Good luck as you compete in the state contest this June.

District Middle School Parliamentary Procedure Winners

Shelby Oesterreicher District President and Waylon Walker, District Tractor Winner

Shelby Oesterreicher District President and Creed Contest Winner, Loral Miller

Polk FFA District Contests


Naturally Amazing Activities

BUMBLE BEE NESTby Sean Green

Attracting beneficial in-sects to our gardens or crops can be a very rewarding expe-rience, not only for crop yield and garden health, but also for the value of really learning about and understanding the insect. This month, fertile queen bumble bees will begin emerging from their overwintering and begin looking for a suitable nesting site. Avoid disturbing the selection process, if disturbed before she is settled in, she will find a safer place to nest. Queens that are seen carrying pol-len on their legs have already found a site nearby. You can try following them to make sure they will have flowers through the season in their nesting area.

There are many designs scattered throughout the in-ternet, some are large projects more suitable for a farm setting such as a “Bee Wall”, while others are small projects perfect for attracting a small colony to your home garden. The proj-ect I have illustrated this month is small and simple enough for children to create with pa-rental supervision and is similar to a common site in the wild, (a log with a rodent cavity underneath it).

Materials:• Trowel• N e s t i n g

M a t e r i a l (upholster-ers cotton, a n i m a l hair, soft s t r i n g , scraps of dry moss)

• Entrance mark-er (rock, ornament, standing twig)

• Chicken wire or small twigs• Nest Cover (Log, untreated panel of wood, slab)

Things to keep in mind when selecting the site:• Nest must remain dark,dry, and well ventilated• Leave patches of roughgrass surrounding the nest site,

and markers near the entrance (for navigation)• Entranceholesfaceeastorsoutheast,(forwarmthof

the morning sun.)• Abundantbloomingflowers fromFebruary through

November

DireCtiONs:1. Dig a pit four or five inches deep and about

ten inches square in a place that there is no risk of flooding.

2. Dig one inch channels on the east /southeast side for the entrance, as well as a couple elsewhere for ventilation.

3. Make the en-trance hole obvious by placing an en-trance marker near it, bees need this for navigation.

4. Place nesting material on top of chicken wire or twigs (for ventila-tion) then place within the nest cavity.

5. Cover the nest cavity with a log, thick

piece of untreated wood, or slab.

Year to year, few crops face as many obstacles as strawberries. Disease

pressure and highly variable moisture levels present growers with a revolving door of new challenges. Strawberry growers can protect their investment and overcome many of these challenges by adding a cost-effective fungicide program that delivers more nutrients to your crop—and more yields at harvest.

One of the best ways to boost your bottom line is to use a unique product that offers powerful control of diseases like Botrytis (also known as gray mold) while it provides a micronutrient boost that increases yields.

Thiram Granuflo®, a product from Chemtura AgroSolutions, is an affordable, consistent fungicide that protects berries from diseases like Botrytis. With multisites of action, Thiram has low resistance risk and is safe for the plant as well as the pollinators.

“The main advantage of using Thiram is that it does the same job for control of Botrytis as some of the more expensive systemic fungicides,” said Dr. Natalia Peres, assistant professor of plant pathology at the University of Florida. “It’s also an effective resistance management tool because it works on different sites of the disease organism.”

“Thiram Granuflo gives growers a broad-spectrum fungicide that often is used in

place of seed protectants as an inexpensive, broad-spectrum alternative,” noted Glenn Brown, salesman for Crop Production Services in central Florida.

But disease control is only part of Thiram Granuflo’s success story. Studies show the fungicide also provides your berries more nutrients, which ultimately leads to higher yields. “Our studies have shown that because Thiram has sulfur in its composition, it is also an effective nutrient boost that delivers increased yields in areas where soils are deficient of this nutrient,” said Dr. Peres.

Thiram Granuflo is a contact fungicide with preventative activity, so it should be applied at bloom before Botrytis becomes established. For the best results, use multiple applications of Thiram during the season, from very early bloom through fruiting.

Another product of Chemtura AgroSolutions that delivers successful disease protection is Procure® 480SC. Procure is a unique, locally systemic fungicide proven to have superior powdery mildew activity—providing an excellent rotational or tank-mix partner.

“We’ve also seen positive results with Procure. It’s one of the best products for powdery mildew control,” said Dr. Peres. “The best way to control powdery mildew would be to use Procure in a rotational program. In fact, one benefit of using Thiram and Procure would be an effective combination of disease control and increased yields.”

Chemtura AgroSolutions offers a full line of products to keep your berry crop at its best throughout the growing season. For more information about Thiram Granuflo, Procure, Acramite®, Firestorm® and Rimon®, contact me at [email protected] or talk to your local dealer.

Firestorm is a restricted use pesticide. Always read and follow label directions.

©2010 Chemtura Corporation. All rights reserved. Chemtura AgroSolutions, the logo and all brands are the property of Chemtura Corporation. Granuflo is a registered trademark ofTaminco, S.A. Rimon is a registered trademark of Makhteshim Chemical Works Ltd. CASMPS12105362

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Studies show Thiram’s unique composition provides strawberries with more nutrients, which ultimately leads to higher yields.

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The Selection Committee for The Florida Citrus Hall of Fame has announced four distinguished leaders will be inducted into the Hall during a Citrus Celebration Luncheon on Friday, March 4, 2011.

R. William “Bill” Becker, Edgar S. Beeland (deceased), Dr. Robert C. “Bob” Bullock and Frank W. Savage (deceased) will be honored during the luncheon scheduled to take place at 11:30 a.m. in the Hollis Wellness Center at Florida Southern College in Lakeland.

Becker is the President/Owner of Peace River Citrus Prod-ucts, Inc. and was a member of the Florida Citrus Commission under both parties: Democratic Governor Bob Graham, 1985-1988 and Republican Governor Bob Martinez, 1988-1991. He served as Chairman of the FCC for five terms, 1986-1991, during the worst set of freezes the industry had ever experienced. He is a Past President of both the Florida Citrus Processors’ Associa-tion and the National Juice Products Association, and is a past member of the Florida Citrus Production Managers Associa-tion. He was a tenacious advocate for both the grower and the processor, always fighting to do what was best for the industry as a whole. He contributed generously to the industry, giving his own time, resources and contacts as well as encouraging and allowing his employees to get involved in industry organizations. Brantley Schirard noted, “Many have attained financial success in the industry, but Bill has given of his success to help others. He is more than deserving of the honor.”

Beeland’s service to the Florida citrus industry spanned over 70 years, serving on numerous boards throughout a distinguished career that helped advance the industry forward as both a packer, processor and grower. He started his career in 1928 with Kis-simmee Citrus Growers Association (CGA) before moving to Clearwater Growers Association as General Manager, where he remained for 28 years – with the exception of three years in the Air Force during World War II. He went on to become the Execu-tive Vice President and General Manager of Winter Haven CGA, a position he held for 22 years. During his career, he served on the boards of Citrus World, Seald-Sweet, Highlands-Exchange Service Cooperative (HESCO), Florida Citrus Packers, and was a founding member of Citrus Self-Insurers Fund, which he also chaired for 20 years. He was president of the Florida Citrus Packers and was awarded the coveted John T. Lesley Award of Excellence in 1991 for his leadership and many contributions to the industry.

Bullock, a research entomologist at the IFAS research center in Ft. Pierce for over 35 years, was known as the “grow-ers’ teacher” for his hands-on knowledge of citrus production and development of integrated pest management practices. He pioneered aerial spraying with fixed-winged aircraft for a number of pesticides, as well as the application techniques for Temik

and Admire – while at the same time teaching the industry how to balance the use of those chemicals with natural resources to help protect the environment. Inducted as an Honorary Member of the Florida State Horticultural Society in 2008, Dr. Bullock was always available to help the grower with pest management concerns. “He was always just a phone call away,” noted Buddy Johnson.

Savage is known as Florida’s first grower cooperator. In 1892, he began working with two USDA scientists, Hall of Fame member Walter T. Swingle and Hubert John Webber to establish the first citrus research facility in the world. Savage constructed laboratories in two rooms at his home and participated in all of the field work and citrus research with the scientists, developing citrus varieties that are still in use today, such as the Orlando and Minneola tangelo, and the Swingle rootstock. When the 1894-95 freeze destroyed the citrus industry, the scientists were called back to Washington and Savage voluntarily continued their work through regular correspondence with the scientists. Because of his commitment to continuing the research programs established by Swingle and Webber, those two laboratory rooms eventually became a plant evaluation facility, the A.H. Whitmore Founda-tion Farm, where extensive breeding work is still done today to develop new and improved varieties and rootstocks of citrus.

The Florida Citrus Hall of Fame honors distinguished lead-ers who have made significant contributions to the Florida citrus industry. The Citrus Hall of Fame display and Archive Center is located within the McKay Archive Building at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. For more information on members of the Citrus Hall of Fame, visit the web site at www.FloridaCitrusH-allofFame.com, which includes access to biographies and photos on all members, noting their accomplishments and including various industry links.

Tickets to the luncheon, which is sponsored by Florida Citrus Mutual and The Florida Department of Citrus, are $50 for general admission, $100 for reserved Patron Seating or $1,000 for a Sponsor Table, which includes preferred seating for eight, table signage and a listing in the program. The event will be followed by an OJ “Meet & Greet” with the inductees as they unveil their names on the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame Tree, located in the McKay Archives Center. A Hall of Fame Citrus Memorabilia Display will be featured, along with Oral History Presentations of Hall of Fame members, a Citrus Label Show & Sale and tours of the Citrus Archives. Shuttles will provide transporta-tion between the Hollis Wellness Center and the McKay Archives Center, where the main parking lot is located.

To purchase tickets, please call (863) 682-1111. For more information, please contact Brenda Eubanks Burnette at (561) 351-4314 or John Jackson at (352) 267-3227.

Florida Citrus Hall of Fame Announces 2011 Inductees

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A BRIX measurement is a measurement of the nutritional value of the sugars, proteins and minerals in a given fruit, plant, crop or forage grass. The BRIX test was introduced in the 19th century by Karl Balling and Adolf Brix. The modern day application of the BRIX test is a science perfected by Dr. Kerry Roberts and the test can be performed by a hand held refractom-eter.

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

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

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

Bio Soil Sumagrow is a complex multi-functional formula containing beneficial microbes that helps fruits, plants, crops and forage grasses process the nutrients that are already in the air and soil. Bio Soil Sumagrow is an all natural spray application that cannot harm the plants or the soil. The product is extremely affordable. The cost is about ¼ of the cost of artificial synthetic fertilizers.

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Mothers have their work cut out for them, good ones are a rare breed, Marie Fussell is a prime example of that breed. “A long time ago the Polk County Junior Cattlemen’s Association faded away,” she said. Then, five or six years ago it started up again. Marie’s two children joined and really liked the advisor, but he was offered a job elsewhere and Marie feared the group would venture back into a state of oblivion.

Marie didn’t want to see that happen and even though she is an extremely busy ag teacher, she chose to take on the advisor role for the sake of her children. Thankfully, she has had the as-sistance of Rhonda Waters, whose three girls have all been mem-bers, two have since graduated and one is a senior. “I couldn’t do it without her,” Marie stated.

The current Polk County Junior Cattlemen’s Association has between 25 and 30 members who pay their $13 dues for both state and county membership. However, only 10-15 of them show up for meetings and other activities. This is due to the fact that Polk County is so large. According to Marie this is both a blessing and “a detriment.” The large county size prevents some members from attending the Bartow meetings because they reside in Frostproof or Haines City. While the large size is also good because, “there’s diversity. When you get them all together it’s like family reunion time.”

The group only meets four or five times a year, but Marie adds that because she’s a teacher, “Our group is a little more on the educational side.” Her educational focus has aided them in preparation for the state Junior Cattlemen’s Quiz Bowls held at the summer Cattlemen’s Convention on Marco Island.

Marie’s members, “always make it to the semi-finals.” This is impressive for several reasons. First, there is the fact that 16 four-man teams compete and then there is the line of questioning the kids must endure. She explains, “there’s no theme or topic other than beef cattle,” and the judges can ask anything on the subject ranging from, “disease, reproduction and nutrition to marketing, management and overall herd health.”

The kids who compete vary in age from 11 to 18. However, the Junior Cattlemen’s Association members can be anywhere

from 8 to 21. Sometimes younger kids want to compete, or kids whose parents don’t attend the Convention desire to be involved, so the Polk County Junior Cattlemen’s Association sets up its own Quiz Bowl at their Spring meeting just to make sure every-one gets a chance to contribute.

In addition to the Quiz Bowl at the Cattlemen’s Convention, Marie’s members participate in the Team Marketing competi-tion where they, “come up with something to sell and market to a panel of judges.” Last year they decided to market F1 heifers (just for clarification, an F1 heifer is the first calf born to two different breeds of pure bred parents). Her group placed second.

While being actively involved in the state sponsored activi-ties, the Polk County Junior Cattlemen’s Association sets up some of its own as well. Last spring break they were able to tour both the Putnam’s and the Lightsey’s cattle ranches. Ranch tours are always on their spring agenda.

Due to the fact that the younger members can’t participate in the Quiz Bowl, the Cattlemen’s Convention has a photo con-test just for them. However, there are times the older kids want to participate so Marie and her group host a “County photo contest.” Submissions are judged by a volunteer panel and are displayed on easels at the fall Polk County Cattlemen’s Dinner.

There are other things the Junior Cattlemen are involved in as well. Their January meeting allows them to pick new of-ficers and design their shirts. Then, in February the Cattlemen’s Association hosts a Ranch Rodeo with a trade show attached. Marie’s group has a booth and helps out at the Ranch Rodeo. Sometime in the fall the state Junior Cattlemen’s Association has a ranch tour and a field day, this is also when officers for the sate are elected.

Marie has dedicated 19 years of her life to education and five years to the Polk County Junior Cattlemen’s Association. As if that weren’t enough for anyone to handle, she also has a commercial cattle ranch to run. Her eldest boy has, “a pure bred Angus herd that he’s raised from the stuff he’s shown.” While her youngest boy likes the look of the Brahmans better. Then there’s the three acres of blueberries, “which is a job in itself if you do it right,” Marie points out. This educating, cattle-ranching, blueberry-growing, Junior Cattlemen-advising mom, is worthy of applause.

Polk County Junior Cattlemen’s Association Advisor: Marie Fussell

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Spring Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Tour: Members at Jimmie Allen’s Ranch

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

Bumble bees are the most important pollinator in our ag-riculture industry. According to some sources, the estimated value of pollination from wild insects, such as bees, is three billion dollars per year. Of the insects that provide pollination services, the bumble bee is the most effective because of its biological characteristics. The hairs that grow on a bumble bee are structured like a feather rather than a single shaft of hair, this structure enables the bumble bee to hold more pollen that a honey bee. In addition, bumble bees can regulate their body temperature and pollinate in the wintertime when other pollinators are incapable of flight. Honey bees stop flying at 50°, bumble bees can fly in temperatures as low as 41°. Bumble bees have the ability to shiver to regulate body temperature. Rain and wind that would force wasps and honey bees to their nests do not deter the bumble bee. Crops such as eggplant,

blueberries, and tomatoes are difficult to pollinate without the bumblebee. The bumble bee is one of the few species capable of pollinating such crops because of its Sonication ability, also known as buzz pollination. Sonication is the process of using

sound energy to stir or disrupt particles. Modern technology uses sonication for ultrasonic cleaning, and breaking apart DNA molecules. The bumble bee loosens the pollen with sonication by grabbing the flower with its legs and increasing the rate of its wingbeat.

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

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

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

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

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

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For the second year, the community at The University of Florida/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center opened its heart to help those less fortunate.

With the economy still appearing to be in decline, unem-ployment still being what it is, and the 99-weekers no longer receiving benefits, the need for help with food and other es-sentials is greater than ever. The times we live in have increased the number of families and individuals requiring food stamps, cash assistance, utility bill assistance, free limited cell phones for emergencies, and in some cases even housing. Many of these recipients are people that had never worried about paying for these items before. Overall I think many would be surprised to know the scope of people receiving the assistance offered today compared to, let’s say, five years ago.

During 2010, three churches in the City of Lake Alfred combined their efforts, and their food banks, to reach a greater population, sharing in the over abundance of one kind of food or another, enabling a more even selection and distribution for those in need. In 2009, the CREC community was able to collect 500 items for those in need and during the 2010 holiday season, our efforts at the Center lead to the donation of 765 items. Thank you all for your generosity. A special thank you goes to a retired CREC staff member, Terry Daughita, for helping us by picking up the donations and delivering them to the food bank.

In a conversation I had with one food bank volunteer, Diamond Basnaw, I expressed concern with some of the candy donations we had received. “Oh no, those are cool!” expressed Diamond. “We take all the candy received and combine them so when we fill bags for the families, we toss in a few pieces of the candy as a surprise treat.” It made me wonder how a child would feel getting that lollipop or peppermint.

As I previously mentioned, these times have brought dif-ferent needs, not only has there been an increased need for food but the need for personal hygiene items, soap, shampoo, shaving supplies, diapers, baby foods, paper products, etc. These are items that are not covered by food stamps and many people forget this. Often the food stamps received don’t cover the food necessary for families of five or more. Diligence in scoping out the best deals at the grocery stores to make those dollars stretch, as well as the use of coupons, does help and yes these can be used with the food stamps at the register.

Although many apply for cash assistance in addition to food stamp assistance, few qualify. Additionally, there are situ-ations in which families may not qualify for “food stamp assis-tance” yet still need the help. Persons owning stocks, regardless of the value (and yes, even the ones grandma left you), would have to sell them off and report the income before qualifying for food stamps. Any extra funds brought into the home, regardless

if it was a gift to help out with utility payments, affects the benefits received for the following 30-day interval.

Keeping these thoughts in mind, and also realizing that these needs are year round and not just during the holiday season, administration has agreed in allowing the community at CREC to continue their efforts by having short quarterly food/supply drives of no more than two weeks at a time. Many of the people that work at CREC, from faculty and staff, live in this local com-munity. When CREC began it was a combined effort of growers and researchers coming together for a com-mon goal. With this enthusiasm and spirit, the CREC community is coming together to reach out that extra helping hand.

Understand, the need is great all the time, so when you’re out shopping and see those “buy one get one” deals, think of sharing that free “get one” with someone less fortunate. Or, if you have coupons that you aren’t using, bring them in to help another family.

I want to close in saying that I am proud to be a part of the CREC family and community. There are so many that are silent in their generosity and share without effort or thought, not looking for that praise or thank you. I want to thank everyone for their assistance and efforts in helping our community, and in your humble silence, I give you a standing ovation. Thank you all!

Helping Handsby Kathy Snyder, CREC


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Amber Cooper Ft. Meade FFA Jr. Speed Showmanship-Horse ShowJr. Flags-Horse Show


Brittany Crawn Livestock Judging Individual Overall High Individual

Kasey Currier Bartow Sr. FFA Commercial Heifer Show European InfluenceMarket Steer Show Class 9

Grand Champion Three-Year-Old DivisionFirst Place

Erica Curtis Polk County Sea Stars 4-H Rabbit Judging Contest- 4-H Sr. Individual First Place

Baley Davis Hog Wild 4-H Purebred Beef Reserve Champion Angus Bull

Sabrina Davis Country Ridge 4-H Horticulture Vegetables Department Tri-Color Vegetables-Cabbage

Sumer Davis Country Ridge 4-H Rabbit Show Best of Breed Satin

Madison DeNardo Dream Catchers 4-H Rabbit Show Best of Breed Lionhead

Devin Die Bartow Middle FFA Horticulture Judging Contest Jr. Team First Place

Joshua Duff Haines City Sr. FFA Horticulture Ornamentals Dept. Tri-Color Ornamental-Dish Garden

Taeler Dupre Kathleen Middle FFA Commercial Heifer Show European Influence Reserve Champion Yearling Division

Keith Edwards III McLaughlin Middle FFA Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class 16 First Place

Kristen Ferro Hog Wild 4-H Horticulture Ornamentals Dept. Tri-Color Ornamental-Stromanthe

Kathryn Floyd Frostproof FFAf Grand Champion Limousin Female

Shelby Freeman Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Market Steer ShowMarket Steer Show Sr. ShowmanshipGrand Champion Maine Anjou FemaleGrand Champion Continental Breed Female

Reserve Grand Champion SteerFirst Place

Carley Frost George Jenkins Sr. FFA Sr. Barrels-Horse Show First Place

Gabrielle Fussell Bok Academy FFA Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class 10 First Place

Reed Fussell Fort Frasier 4-H Horticulture Ornamentals Dept.Purebred Beef Brahman BullPurebred Beef Reserve Champion Angus Female

Tri-Color Ornamental-Grape IvyReserve Grand Champion

Wes Fussell Bartow Sr. FFA Purebred Beef Grand Champion Angus FemalePurebred beef Grand Champion English Breed Female

Jordan Futch Hog Wild 4-H Sr. Western Horsemanship First Place

Jessica Ganey Mulberry Sr. FFA Poultry and Egg Judging High Overall IndividualFirst Place Team

Ricky Garcia Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Market Steer Show Class 4 First Place

Oliva Glenn Thunderhooves 4-H Jr. Western Pleasure-Horse ShowJr. Western Showmanship-Horse Show


Makayla Goble Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Individual Herdsman Award Award Winner

Emily Grant Bartow Middle FFA Horticulture Judging Contest Jr. Team First Place

James Griffin Auburndale Sr. FFA Rabbit Show Best of Breed Rex

Wyatt Griner Frostproof Middle FFA Livestock Judging Team Middle School First Place

Leah Hagen Polk County Sea Stars 4-H Horticulture Judging Sr. Individual Contest First Place

Skylar Hamilton Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Horticulture Blueberry Dept. Grand Champion Blueberry

Megan Handley Dream Catchers 4-H Poultry Show Showmanship Intermediate Division

First Place

Amanda Harrell Lake Wales Sr. FFA Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class 18 First Place

Renee Hart Dundee Clovers 4-H Poultry Show Overall Poultry Grand Champion & Champion Female Bantam

Sebastian Hathcock Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Horticulture Blueberry Dept. Tri-Color Blueberry Plant

Katie Harwell Hoof n’ Horn 4-H Jr. Grooming & Conditioning-Horse Show First Place

Leigha Heverly Bartow Sr. FFA Sr. Hollow Log-Horse ShowSr. Poles-Horse ShowHorticulture Ornamentals Dept.

F irst PlaceFirst PlaceTri-Color Ornamental-Croton

Ralinzie Hunter Bartow Middle FFA Poultry Show Champion Commercial Hen


5530 Old Hwy. 37, Lakeland, FL 33811

“Family Owned & Operated for 30 Years, and

The Customer is Still Number ONE1”wrangler-levy-cruel girl-cowgirl

tuff-stetson-resistol-lucchesse-justin-ariat-buck-traeger-pellet grills-holland grills-four paws-weaver leather-royal

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Hours: Mon-Fri 8a.m. - 6p.m.Sat-8a.m. - 4p.m.

Closed Sunday

***This is a low resolution document for proofing only.***

Name (alpha) Club/Chapter Contest/Division/Show AwardSierra Hylton Lake Wales Sr. FFA Purebred Beef Zebu Female Reserve Champion

Austin Jackson Kathleen Sr. FFA Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class One First Place

Cody Jarvis George Jenkins Sr. FFA Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class Two First Place

Zackary Jenkins Frostproof FFA Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class 13 First Place

Destiny King Frostproof Sr. FFA Livestock Judging Contest Sr. TeamPurebred Beef Reserve Champion Hereford Bull

First Place

Kaitlyn King Imperial 4-H Market Hog Show Reserve ChampionMarket Hog Show Class Winner-Class 14

Reserve ChampionFirst Place

Mattie King Frostproof Middle FFA Livestock Judging Middle School TeamPurebred Beef Show Brahman Bull

First PlaceGrand Champion

Kandace Ladd Road Ends 4-H Market Steer Show Class 6 First Place

Nathaniel Lawson Kathleen Sr. FFA Market Steer Show Class 5 First Place

Kyle Lay Dream Catchers 4-H Sr. Walk Trot-Horse ShowCommercial Heifer Show European Influence

First PlaceReserve Champion Two Year Old Division

Michaela Lindley Lake Wales Sr. FFA Sr. Costume-Horse ShowRabbit Show

First PlaceBest of Breed French Angora

Kendall Locke Hog Wild 4-H Resrve Champion Main Anjou FemaleReserve Champion Continental Breed FemaleBeef Breeding Junior Showmanship ContestBeef Breeding Jr. Showmanship First Place

Rachel Locke Bartow Middle FFA Poultry and Egg JudgingRabbit Show 1st Runner UPRabbit Show

First Place TeamFirst Runner UPBest of Breed Netherland Dwarf

Kenny Mantague Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Grand Champion Main Anjou BullReserve Champion Continental breed male

Eddie Maute Road Ends 4-H Grand Champion Simmental Female

Nicholes Maute Road Ends 4-H Road Ends 4-H Reserve Champion Simmen-tal Female Grand Champion Semmental BullGrand Champion Continental Breed Male

Dakota McCullers Frostproof FFA Livestock Judging Sr. Team First Place

Moriah McCullers Frostproof FFA Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class 11Market Hog Intermediate Showmanship ContestLivestock Judging Contest Middle SchoolPurebred Beef Show Brahman FemalePurebred beef Brahman breed femalePurebred Beef Reserve Champion Hereford FemaleBeef Breeding Inter. Showmanship 1st place

First PlaceFirst PlaceFirst PlaceFirst Place TeamGrand ChampionReserve Champion

Leanna McDuffie Hoof N Horn 4-Hf Rabbit Show Best of Breed Angora

Johnathon McGuire Bartow Middle FFA Horticulture Citrus Dept. Reserve Champion Citrus

Todd McGuire Bartow Middle FFA Horticulture Citrus Dept. Grand Champion Citrus

Shelby McLauchlin Dream Catchers 4-H Reserve Champion Limousin Female

Coy McLaughlin Dream Catchers 4-H Group Herdsman Award Award Winner

Winston McLaughlin Dream Catchers 4-H Group Herdsman Award Award Winner

Troy Mosher Thunderhooves 4-H Sr. Flags-Horse Show First Place

Josh Muller Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Horticulture Judging Contest Sr. Team First Place

Lyndsey Myers Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Horticulture Judging Contest Sr. Team First Place

Cole Newman Frostproof Middle FFA Livestock Judging Team Middle School First Place Team

Kaylee Norris Frostproof FFA Livestock Judging Contest Sr.Grand Champion Hereford FemaleReserve Champion English Breed Female

First Place Team and High Individual

Katherine Patrick Thunderhooves 4-H Jr. English Showmanship-Horse ShowJr. English Pleasure-Horse ShowJr. English Equitation-Horse ShowHorse Show Overall Highpoint Winner

First PlaceFirst PlaceFirst PlaceHorse Show High Point

Jenna Payne Lakeland Sr. FFA Rabbit Show Best of Breed Silver Martin

James Peach Mulberry Sr. FFA Poultry and Egg Judging First Place Team

Nathan Pearson Auburndale Sr. FFA Poultry Show Champion Female Standard

Victoria Peavey Dundee Clovers 4-H Rabbit Show 2nd Runner UpBest of Breed Himalayan

www.InTheFieldMagazine.com February 2011 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE 63 62 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE February 2011 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

RUBBER MULCHAll colors, buy 10 bags, get one FREE! $8.99 a bag. Call Ted 813-752-3378

DECKING BRDS. & T1LL SIDING Call Ted 813-752-3378

MASSEY FERGUSON 255 Grove Tractor with 6’ mower $7,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

KUBOTA L275With shuttle shift • Ready to work! $3,500. Call 813-759-8722

DBL INSULATEDThermo Pane. Starting at $55.00 Call Ted 813-752-3378

HUSQVARNA LZ 6127 Zero turn mower. 61” cut, 27 hp Kohler engine, 5 yr. warranty $7,499 (MSRP $9,699) C&J Equip., Lake Wales, 863-638-0671

SURPLUS WINDOWS DOUBLE INSULATED Starting at $55.00 • Call Ted 813-752-3378MOBILE HOME SIZES

WINDOW SCREENSWe make window screens all sizesavailable in different frame colors.Call Ted 813-752-3378

T1LL 4X8 sheet B-grade $14.95. Call Ted 813-752-3378

1984 KUBOTA B62002 wd, w/4 ft. Finish Mower. $3,000 •863-698-2967

STUMP GRINDERShaver S-25 PTO mount. Less than 3 years old. Perfect condition, hardly used. Cost new $5,778. For sale for $2,500.Lake Wales 863-528-3213

NEW HOLLAND TN55 Tractor/loader, 2WD, 45 hp, $13,000.00 (UUT7084) Call Fred 813-623-3673

FORD 2000 GAS TRACTORRestored, 2WD, 33 hp, PS, 3600 hrs, $4,950.00 (U13360) Call Fred 813-623-3673

USED POST HOLE DIGGER W/6” & 9” augers $500.00 (U13347) Call Fred 813-623-3673

REAR BLADE 84” $175.00 (U13350) Call Fred 813-623-3673

KUBOTA L26002wd, 2334 hours, 27hp.$2,750. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

KUBOTA 17504x4 Hydro Stat Trans. 20hp.$3,750. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

2007 HARLEY DAVIDSONDyna Glide Streetbob with only 368 miles. Excellent condition, garaged kept, covered. Extras added and ready to ride! $11,000. Serious Inquiries Only. Call 813-659-3402

NEW DOORSCloseout special!!!!!$75.00 to $295.00 Call Ted today.813-752-3378

NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAINS!Blairsville, Blue Ridge, Young Harris and Hiawassee as well as Murphy and Hayes-ville, NC, Planning for retirement, or just look-ing for a great weekend getaway cabin? We can help. Visit us at www.janebaerrealty.com or call 1-800-820-7829 and ask for Jane Baer.

MOUNTAIN TOP #185445 LOCATED IN BLAIRSVILLE GA. FANTASTIC mountain views, like new, 2/2 with wood burning fireplace, loft, basement, porch, second home use only from original owners! $299,000 Call and ask For Jane Baer with Jane Baer Realty. 1-800-820-7829.

BEAUTIFUL CABIN #194651A real tempter in moun-tain setting on 1.14 acres. A charming air comes with this metal-roofed 3BR/3+BA fully furnished cabin in ideal condition with a won-derful view. Marble foyer, large rooms and loft. $385,900. Call and ask For Jane Baer with Jane Baer Realty. 1-800-820-7829.

•••FOR SALE•••Fertilized Bahia Hay. 4X5 rolls $25 ea.800 rolls available. Call for pick up863-287-3091 or 863-294-1650

NEW HOLLANDTC29 tractor / loader 29 pto hp, 268hrs.$13,000 (UT6406) Ask for David 813-623-3673

1999 MASSEY FERGUSON 42704x4, cab, 99 pto hp. $22,500. Ask for Alvie 813-759-8722

MAHINDRA 4530 TRACTOR LOADER455 hours, 4x4, 42 hp. $14,900. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

CONTRIBUTING WRITERWrite about events in your community. Imme-diate openings in Hillsborough and Polk Coun-ties. Paid per article. Responsibilities include covering community events and taking pictures. Email your resume to [email protected]

ACCOUNT MANAGERSales, account management. Immediate open-ings in Hillsborough and Polk Counties. Email your resume to [email protected]

1974 MASSEY FERGUSON135 Diesel, Power Steering.$3,750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

MASSEY FERGUSON 24542hp, recent engine overhaul,with loader. $7,650 Call Alvie813-759-8722

2 WHEEL STOCK TRAILER4X7, all metal side, stored in barn.$150.00. Call 813-752-8172

HAY FOR SALE (ROLLS)Horse quality barn stored. Near I-75& Hwy. 52. San Antonio, Fl.Call 813-431-0939

WALLPAPER HANGERExperienced in all types, Insured.Call Louis Melovich 813-601-4887

JOHN DEERE MOWER Z225 42” Mower Zero Ra-dius Like new condi-tion. $1000.00 dollar discount.Call Bill 863-318-0117

•••FOR SALE•••High Cal Lime or Dolomite delivered & or spread. No job too large or too small.Call Tim Ford 863-439-3232

•••FOR SALE•••Chicken Manure. Delivery & spreading avail-able. Call Tim Ford or Danny Thibodeau863-439-3232

2004 NEW HOLLAND TC40AWith loader & forks. 2,346 hrs., 4wd, 4hp, Canopy rops, shuttle shift, 3pt. hitch, PTO, 2 remotes, w/Ag tires. EXCELLENT CONDI-TION! RUNS GREAT! $13,500. Call Wayne 813-477-8750 for pictures visit www.usedtractors-equipment.com

2006 MASSEY FERGUSON TRACTORWith loader & 4’ mower, MDL GC2300, 615hrs.4wd, 22hp, hydrolic trans., oRops, 3pt. hitch, PTO, can attaché a belly mower (not included), great tires, great paint, EXCELLENT CONDI-TION! RUNS GREAT! $7,500 Call Wayne 813-477-8750 for pictures visitwww.usedtractors-equipment.com

ARCADIA-48.6+ACRESSR 72 Frontage and Kings Highway. Pasture, fenced, native trees, oak trees, house circa early 1900’s. Easy drive to Pt. Charlotte or Sarasota. $225,000 call Coldwell Banker Giamiotea Re-alty at 888-494-4880.

FARM LAND FOR LEASEFarm land for lease in SW Highlands County. Ample water use permitted for growing strawberries,vFruits and/or vegetables. Pack-ing, cooling & Shipping Facility available in same location. Contact Susie at 863-381-1098 or [email protected] for details.

CLAAS ROUND BALER / ROUANT 664’X5’ rolls. This baler is in good condition.All maintenance records available. Kept under roof operator & parts manual included. $8,000 Call 386-658-2013 or 386-209-2213.

For classified info:(813) 759-6909

[email protected]

C L A S S I F I E D SName (alpha) Club/Chapter Contest/Division/Show AwardTori Perkins Haines City Sr. FFA Poultry Show Sr. Showmanship First Place

Shelby Peterson Dundee Ridge Middle FFA Jr. Horse Therapy-Horse Show First Place

Lilly Pfeiffer Bartow Sr. FFAs Rabbit Best of Show Best of Show

Shelby Phillips Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Horticulture Ornamentals Dept. Grand Champion Ornamental

Danielle Pittard George Jenkins Sr. FFA Horticulture Blueberry Dept. Tri-Color Blueberry Plant

Darby Pittman Imperial 4-H Jr. Costume-Horse Show First Place

Allison Polston Polk City 4-H Livestock Judging Sr. Individual First Place

Trace Porter Top Notch 4-H Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class Five First Place

Berto Rangel Mulberry Sr. FFA Poultry and Egg Judging Contest First Place Team

Hunter Reeves Ft. Meade Community 4-H Rabbit Show Best of Breed Flemish Giant

Kayla Rhoades Home Grown 4-H Jr. Barrels-Horse Show First Place

Maegan Rodden Polk County Sea Stars Rabbit Judging Contest Junior First Place Individual

Alex Rodriguez Mulberry Sr. FFA Rabbit Judging Sr. Team First Place

Tanner Ross Bartow Sr. FFA Whip Popping Contest Sr. Division First Place

Lyssa Rothrock Bartow Sr. FFA Horticulture Ornamentals Dept. Tri-Color Ornamental-Croton

Kirsten Scarborough Frostproof Sr. FFA Market Steer Show Class Two First Place

Robert Scott Road Ends 4-H Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class Four First Place

Cheyenne Sharp Bartow Sr. FFA Sr. Speed ShowmanshipPurebred Beef Grand Champion Hereford BullGrand Champion English Breed Male

First Place

Brianna Sherrod Lake Wales Sr. FFA Purebred Beef Zebu Bull Reserve Champion

Hannah Sikes Frostproof FFA Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class FourPurebred Beef St. Gertudis Bull

First PlaceGrand Champion

Harley Skinner Hog Heaven 4-H Rabbit Show Best of Breed Holland Lop Best of Breed American Fuzzy Lop

Erin Smith Thunderhooves 4-H Jr. Hollow Log-Horse ShowJr. Poles-Horse Show


Skye Smith Polk Centennial 4-H Jr. Trail-Horse Show First Place

Andrew Stevens FL Crackers 4-H Horticulture Judging Jr. Contest Individual First Place

Kelsey Thompson Mulberry Sr. FFA Rabbit Judging Sr. Team First Place

Kevin Togolas Lake Gibson Sr. FFA Horticulture Judging Contest Sr. Team First Place

Nick Trejo Bartow Middle FFA Poultry and Egg JudgingHorticulture Judging Contest Jr. Team

First Place TeamFirst Place

Austin Vargas Bartow Sr. FFA Commercial Heifer Show European InfluencePurebred Beef Brangus BullPurebred Beef Brahman Breed FemalePurebred Beef Grand Champion Angus BullReserve Champion English Breed Male

Grand Champion Two-Year-Old DivisionReserve ChampionReserve Champion

Brittany Vaughn Mulberry Sr. FFA Rabbit Judging Contest Sr. First Place Team

Grayson Waldman FL Crackers 4-H Whip Popping Contest Jr. Division First Place

Austin Walker Frostproof FFA Market Steer Show Class OneLivestock Judging Contest Sr.


Tristen Walling Be a Champ 4-H Market Hog Show Class Winner-Class 12Rabbit Show

First PlaceBest of Breed Californian

Trevor Waltz Imperial 4-H Rabbit Show Best of Breed Florida White

Kristin Ward Mulberry Sr. FFA Rabbit Judging Contest Sr.Rabbit Show

First Place TeamBest of Breed English Lop

Raymond Ward II Kathleen Sr. FFA Market Steer Show Class Three First Place

Brett Wasden Bartow Sr. FFA Commercial Heifer Show-Brahman Influence Grand Champion Yearling Division

Dylan Webb Top Notch 4-H Market Hog Junior Showmanship Contest First Place

Hunter Westmorelan Bartow Middle FFA Poultry and Egg JudgingHorticulture Judging Contest Jr. Team

High Overall IndividualFirst Place TeamFirst Place

Harley M. Zueckler Frostproof FFA Commercial Heifer Show Sr. Showmanship First Place

64 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE February 2011 www.InTheFieldMagazine.com

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