In The Field Hillsborough

®rrr®

2 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE MARCH 2012 W W W.INTH EFI E L DMA G A Z I N E.C O M

813-689-1570Full Line of Feeds

Harold’s Feed & Pet SupplyHarold’s Feed & Pet Supply

813-689-1570Open: M-F: 8 to 6 pm

Sat: 8-5 pmClosed Sunday

• Food Plot Mix• Attractants• Feeders• and much more!

Corner ofMartin L. King Blvd. & McIntosh Rd.

Dover, FL 33527

Harold’s Feed & Pet Supply

O�er expires Oct. 14, 2007

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE MARCH 2012 3W W W.INTH EFI E L DMA G A Z I N E.C O M

From the Editor

Contents

Cover StoryPage 54Cover photo byStephanie Humphrey

In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Hillsborough County businesses,restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of theGreenbelt Property owners, members of the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Grower’s Association.Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome toemail 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 FieldMagazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of theauthors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In The Fieldmagazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc.Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

VOL. 8 • ISSUE 5

PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHY

Karen Berry

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Al Berry

SENIOR MANAGING

EDITOR/ASSOCIATE

PUBLISHER

Sarah Holt

EDITOR

Patsy Berry

OFFICE MANAGER

Bob Hughens

SALES MANAGER

Danny Crampton

SALES

Al BerryTina RichmondDanny Crampton

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Mona Jackson

PHOTOGRAPHY

Karen Berry Al BerryStephanie Humphrey

STAFF WRITERS

Al BerrySandy Kaster

James FrankwoiakSean GreenMark CookGinny Mink

Libby Hopkins

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Woody GoreLes McDowell

Letter from HCFB President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6Business Up Front / Muck Truck . . . . . . . . . . . Page 10Tampa Bay Fishing Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14Grub Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 18Rocking Chair Chatter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 22Wild Hogs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 32The Dream Continues - Dry Creek . . . . . . . . . . Page 34Florida Berry Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 42Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 50Plant Diversity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 58Gail Chestnut - Leto High School . . . . . . . . . . . Page 60Cost-Sharing Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 64A Real Blessing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 67Operation Outdoor Freedom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 72Parade of Champions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 82

I think that no matter how old or infirm I may become,I will always plant a large garden in the spring. Who canresist the feelings of hope and joy that one gets fromparticipating in nature's rebirth? – Edward Giobbi

Spring is here! We are lucky in Florida to be blessedwith good weather for most of the year, but I stillenjoy this season. The days are lengthening, giving

us more time to enjoy all that Florida has to offer. So getout and hike, bike, kayak or whatever you like to do!Visit one of the many state parks, ornamental gardens, orfind an event that celebrates spring flowers.

What a great fair season! The Florida State Fair washeld in February, you can find results in this issue ofInTheField®, and the Florida Strawberry Festival ran fromMarch 1 – 11, look for results of the agriculture events inthe next issue of In The Field. Congratulations to all thosewho competed. You set your goals to help you with yourproject. By setting goals you know where to concentrateyour efforts and what you have to do to reach the goalsyou set. These events are the culmination of a lot of hardwork for these students. They are to be commended fortheir efforts.

As always, thank you to our advertisers. You allow us tocontinue to ‘Cover What is Growing.’ We couldn’t do itwithout you!

Until Next Month,

SarahThe Lord make His face shine upon youand be gracious to you.






You Too, Can Be A WinnerHey Readers, hidden somewhere inthe magazine is a No Farmers, NoFood logo. Hunt for the logo and onceyou find the hidden logo you will beeligible for a drawing to win a FREEInTheField® T-Shirt. Send us yourbusiness card or an index card withyour name and telephone number, the

number of the page which you foundthe logo and where on that page youlocated the logo to:

InTheField® MagazineP.O. Box 5377

Plant City, FL 33566-0042

Winners will be notified by phone.You Too Can Be A Winner!Search for the logo below and enternow!

Index of AdvertisersAg Technologies.....................................71Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers..............13All Florida Ag Show ................................5Antioch Feed .........................................16Aquarius Water Refining .......................66Astin Strawberry Exchange....................20Beast Feast.............................................35Berry Blue Farm & Nursery, LLC..........26Bill’s Transmissions................................69Bingham ................................................38Brandon Auto Services, Inc....................91Brandon Farms Market .........................33Broke & Poor ........................................90Brown’s Jewelers....................................69Byrd & Barnhill, P.L. .............................93C&C Services of Tampa ........................31Certis USA.............................................17Certis USA.............................................95CF Industries, Inc ..................................80Chemical Containers .............................47Chuck’s Tire & Automotive .................87Circle “R” .............................................24Clem’s Meats .........................................66Cowboys Western World .......................12Crescent Jewelers...................................73Dad’s Towing.........................................75Dairy Queen ..........................................57Discount Metals ....................................70Driscoll’s................................................40

Fancy Farms ..........................................85Farm Bureau Insurance..........................29Farm Bureau Insurance/Jeff Sumner ......91Farm Credit ...........................................63Felton’s ..................................................63Florida Mineral, Salt & Ag Products.....51Florida Strawberry Growers Asso..........65Forbes Road Produce.............................13Fred’s Market ........................................93Furs, Fashion & Feathers ......................27Gator Ford ............................................61Gladstone Land .....................................59Grove Equipment Service.......................90Handy Can Portable Restrooms ............20Harold’s Feed & Pet Supply ....................3Harrell’s Nursery, Inc...............................8Haught Funeral Home...........................25Helena Chemical-Tampa........................47Hillsboro State Bank..............................91Hillsborough County Farm Bureau .........7Hinton Farms Produce, Inc....................50Hydraulic Hose & Cylinder, Inc. ...........86I-4 Power Equipment.............................52Johnson’s Barbeque ...............................93Jon & Rosie’s Tree Farm .......................20Keel & Curley Winery...........................37Key Plex ................................................19Land’s Feed & Farm Supply ..................85Loetscher Auto Parts .............................79Magnolia Hill ........................................70Malissa Crawford..................................59

Mark Smith Excavating .........................44Meryman Environmental.......................68Mosaic...................................................87Muck Truck...........................................89Parkesdale Farms.....................................9Pathway BioLogic..................................45Plant City Tire & Auto............................8Red Rose Inn & Suites ..........................48Rick’s Custom Meats.............................69Ring Power Corporation .......................26Roadrunner Veterinary Clinic................96S & O Greenworks................................39Savich & Lee Wholesale ........................81Shell’s Feed & Garden Supply ...............41Southern Water & Soil ..........................92Southside Farm & Pet Supply................11Southwestern Produce ...........................56Stephanie Humphrey .............................77Stingray Chevrolet .................................21Super Shuttle International ....................33Sweetgum Environmental ......................77Syngenta ..................................................2The Hay Depot......................................53Timberlane Pet Hospital and Resort .....53Trinkle, Redman, Swanson, Coton,Davis & Smith.......................................75Walden Lake Car Wash .........................79Wells Memorial .....................................79Willie’s ...................................................93Wishnatzki Farms..................................23



BUSINESS UP FRONT

11







In case anyone has been living out of thecountry or orbiting in outer space…itsFlorida Strawberry Festival time in Plant

City! So this is the obvious month for theGrub Station to pay homage to those ripered berries and what is known as the money-making “winter crop.”

The peak season from November throughMarch has made Florida the winter straw-berry capital. With more than 10,000 acres(mostly concentrated in the Plant City –Dover area) devoted to strawberry growing,Florida is only second to California in straw-berry producing acreage.

For years, there has been an ongoing battlebetween Florida growers and Californiagrowers. Recently California (with virtuallyno real market share in the winter crop) hasexpanded by financing berries grown inMexico because Mexican growers use thesame strawberry varieties and have the samegrowing season as we do here in Florida.

The Brandon Farms Market and the FloridaStrawberry Growers Association are bothlocated in Dover and began their history-making journey within a year of each other,with Brandon Farms owner Eddie Jones set-ting up his first roadside stand in 1979 andthe Growers Association’s beginningsformed out of meetings begun by growers ayear later.

Now, the roadside stand sitting on the southside of State Road 60, just east of DoverRoad surrounded by strawberry fields, hasenlarged to accommodate more than a hun-dred avid lovers of their strawberry productsand fresh produce at a single time.

The sign over the market entrance says,“Fresh to you as God blesses us.” There canbe no doubt about the blessings receivedfrom their home grown berries sparking theideas that have made Brandon Farms and itsmarket a success.

Today the pioneer strawberry growers sitamong a plethora of stands and stores, allvying for strawberry aficionado’s attention.Instead of running from one place to anoth-

er to taste different products, it just mademore sense to go to the place that hasproven quality and enough variety toinclude selling fresh produce, as well as, hav-ing an open-air cafe in the same location.

There is a clear memory of the excitementcreated when the market began sellingstrawberry pizza, because it was around thesame time as the start of my career as a pro-fessional journalist…some 25 years ago.Pizza as a dessert was a hot topic and every-one I knew flocked to the Farms Market topick up a pizza or be decadent and havesome for breakfast with coffee or sweet tea.To this day, a thin crust strawberry-glazedpizza spread with a layer of a cream cheesemixture is still a bargain at $13 for a largesize or $10 for a small pizza. Individualslices of pure pizza goodness are also avail-able for $2.75

Seven-days-a-week through April you canmeet the famous strawberry pizza crustmaker and baker Lisa Register and her momLorrell McLeod. Both have been with theBrandon Farms for about 26 years. LisaRegister recalls bringing her then one-year-old son (now age-27) to play in a playpen setup in the farms kitchen while she was baking.

The mother and daughter duo are delightfulladies who remember most of their manycustomers by name and love to reminisceabout their years working at the market.The one thing they won’t talk about is theirsecret recipe for that pizza cookie crumbcrust or strawberry shortcake.

Everything is made fresh “from scratch”daily and I was told to take note that realshortcake is made here, not sponge cake.The strawberry shortcake is sold with thecustomer’s preference of either whippedcream or a huge mound of soft vanilla icecream as a topping…yum!

The café also sells luscious strawberry milk-shakes made with real milk and filled withfresh-cut strawberry pieces, strawberrylemonade, gorgeous strawberry pie and tartsnearly over-flowing with perfect berries.

You can enjoy a simple dish of fresh berriesand cream or a berry-licious sundae madewith soft vanilla ice cream.

Romantics will adore giving a long-stemmedwhite or dark chocolate hand-dipped premi-um berry as a gift. Heck, just splurge and geta basket of six for only $7.99 or order partytrays.

This is definitely the place to eat your dessertfirst but you can also indulge in heartyItalian or smoked sausages and all-beef hot-dogs cooked rotisserie-style and served withtoppings and warm fresh buns.

Adjacent to the café is the fresh producemarket stocked with seasonal Florida citrusfruits, vegetables and, naturally, rows offresh-picked half flats of strawberries (a halfflat is the equivalent of about four quarts)and Brandon Farms own strawberry jam.

“We’ve only ever had this one job and lookforward to coming back to work at thebeginning of strawberry season when themarket reopens. We love our customers andtry to treat everybody right. People comeback year after year and are kind of like anextended family. We would rather be herethan anywhere else,” said McLeod. •

Brandon FarmsEst. 1978

Farmers MarketFresh produce and Café

Home of the original strawberry pizzaLocation: 3931 State Road 60 in DoverMarket and Cafe phone: (813) 685-4208Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM,

Mon. – Sun. through AprilWeb-site: www.brandonfarmsmarket.com

BRANDON FARMSby Cheryl Kuck



Easter is right around the corner and this month we are going tocelebrate transformation with a little science and a little tradi-

tional Easter egg coloring. Growing crystals and watching themtransform is always a fun project, combining crystals with Eastereggs makes a magical gift that’s fun to make. Empty eggshells are agood substrate for growing crystals because they are porous. Anyporous material will draw up water with capillary action (like apaper towel soaking up water). This is why colored water makesEaster eggs colored in the first place. When water is super saturatedwith soluble solids such as salt, the solids begin to clump togetherto form crystals as the water evaporates. If we fill a hollowedeggshell with such a liquid, when the liquid evaporates we will havean eggshell filled with tiny crystals similar to a geode.

Depending on the solids used, crystals will begin growing in as littleas 15 minutes and can continue growing for months. Crystalgrowth is affected by humidity, temperature and airflow. Warmerenvironments result in faster growth and a slight breeze helpsincrease evaporation.

Supplies Needed:

Pin or NeedleDremel Tool or ScissorsCoffee CupWaterSoluble Solids*

Table SaltSugarBoraxAlum

Food ColoringSpoonEgg Carton

• Using a pin or needle, Hollow out an egg by poking a hole ineach end of the egg and blowing the fluids out.

• Cut a window in the egg at least the size of a quarter.• Clean the egg membrane from the inside of the egg by running it

under hot water to peel the membrane from the shell.• Allow the shells to dry completely• Securely cradle the eggshells in the egg carton, window side facing

up like a bowl, it will shift as the crystals grow.• In a saucepan, heat water to boiling.• Fill a coffee cup halfway with boiling water; begin adding

soluble solids to the point of super saturation (when no morewill dissolve).

• Add food coloring.• Fill each eggshell to the brim of the window.• Place the shells somewhere warm that they will not be disturbed

for a few days (long enough for the water to evaporate).

As the water evaporates, crystals will form inside the eggs!

Naturally Amazing Activities

CrystalEaster EggsBy Sean Green





Do you really know what you arelooking for when buying fencingsupplies? I’ll be the first to admit

that I am no expert, but I decided to checkinto it a bit to see what I could discover.

The first things to consider include, whatis the fence expected to contain? Is this atemporary fence or one expected to lastmany years? What is the expected mainte-nance on the fence? What is the budget forthe fence? As you can see, the questionsare many and varied, but it is best to knowwhat you are looking for before you beginto shop. Fencing material varies widelyfrom woven wire and board fences toelectrified wire or tape and high tensileelectric.

I was given a booklet produced in 2005 byOklahoma Steel & Wire Company. In itwas information taken from VirginiaPolytechnic Institute and State University

discussing wire information and how toread fence and wire panel numbers.

It reads: Steel wire longevity depends onthe type and thickness of protective coat-ing around the wire. Zinc is commonlyused to cover (Galvanize) steel wire toprotect it from rusting. There are severalways of applying zinc to steel wire andsome are claimed to be superior to others.However, results of the American Societyof Testing and Materials (ASTM) show nopractical difference among galvanizationmethods.

Zinc coatings are measured in ounces ofzinc per square foot of wire surface. Themore zinc per square foot, the more yearsof wire use before rusting starts. TheASTM has established “classes” of zinccoatings for steel wire based on the num-ber of years that galvanizing delays wirerusting under different climatic conditions

(Table 1). Class 1 has the lightest zinccoating and Class 3 has the heaviest.Machinery, livestock and fire may damagethe zinc coating, which results in wire thatrusts sooner than undamaged wire.

The same brochure with the above infor-mation included tables on how to readwire panel numbers. This is good informa-tion to know when you are putting up afence.

With a little more research, I found areport on the Virginia CooperativeExtension Service web site, by, none otherthan, Virginia Tech. They seem to reallywant people to know what they are buyingwhen it comes to fencing. And theyshould!

Visit http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/442/442-131/442-131.html for the full report. You will learn everythingyou ever wanted to know about fencing materials!



Experience downtown Plant City family fun, shopping and eatingat its best during Spring Thing and the debut of Plant City’sweekly Farmer’s Market, Saturday, March 31, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. inHistoric Downtown at McCall Park and the Train DepotWelcome Center on Palmer Street.

Spring Thing (9 a.m. – 4 p.m.) features qualified appraisers whowill assess antiques, fine art, collectibles, and jewelry for a nomi-nal fee, antique dealers, local artists and hand-crafters, musicalentertainment, face painting and inflatable bouncy equipment forthe kids.

Plant City’s Farmer’s Market (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) will showcase localarea fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and other specialty items.

Stay up to date on this weekly atwww.facebook.com/PlantCityFarmersMarket.

Vendor space is available for both events.Spring Thing! booth space reservation:April Lubrano 813-545-1607 [email protected] Market booth space and info:Dave Schultz 813-659-9700 [email protected] events are hosted byThe Plant City Downtown Business & Merchants Association.

Plant CityFarmer’s MarketDebuts with

SpringThing!A Family Eventin HistoricDowntown Plant City





31




Dry Creekhas been a whirlwind sinceits conception. It started by

me getting laid off from my job on morning radio.Having to reinvent myself I said, “It’s time I do whatI really want to do!” I looked at the lack of familyprograming on TV and said it's time to bring it back.

With a few close friends I started acting out some ofmy Cowboy Poetry using horses and wagons. ThenI'd put them up on YouTube. Thanks to those closefriends for keeping my dream alive. Each video keptgetting longer and people started liking what wewhere doing. That was when Dry Creek was born.

I’ve always said, I didn’t write Dry Creek. Dry Creekwrote its self. Tom Glasgow, Terry Smith and RogerJames have been there from the beginning. So oftenbefore the camera rolls and the director yells action,we look at each other and smile. We always say we’reliving the dream.

My close friends and the other folks that have comethrough the gates have turned into The Dry Creekfamily. These folks have not only donated their timeto make it happen, but also helped build the sets anddonated lumber. We truly are family.

From You Tube to Dry Creek playing four times aweek on National TV it has been a fast ride in a-littleover a year and a half. Soon we will be doing 13 newepisodes. Thanks to all who have donated. Believingin the dream Dry Creek continues.

Dreams can come true with the help of alot of friends... one board at a time.

Go todrycreektv.comto see more

By Les McDowell

Photos Courtesy of Linda Constant Photography

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE MARCH 2012 35WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM

to see the Easter Bunny and get aFREE Picture and TREAT from the

Easter Bunnywith other Activities • ALL FREE/DONATIONS

Where: 908 Joe McIntosh Rd., Plant CityWhen: March 30 & 31 • Time: 2 p.m. til 6 p.m.

Phone: 813.759.3345In co-operation with Operation Lifesaver Highway-Rail Grade

Crossing Safety Program




39


The Florida state Fair hosted the annual “Fresh From Florida”breakfast, sponsored by Farm Credit of Central Florida, in the AgHall of Fame Building. Attendees enjoyed a farm fresh breakfast

by visiting the various booths on display in the building.In attendance were many Florida agriculture leaders, includingthe Florida Commissioner of Agriculture, Adam Putnam.

PHOTOS Courtesy of Ron O’Connor, Farm Credit







2012 Ford F-150 delivers even more of what customers are looking forwith a new FX appearance package and several new technologies anddriveline upgrades. They include the addition of Hill Start Assist, anew automatic 4x4 system for Lariat trim level and above, and greatlyexpanded availability of electronic locking rear axles on 3.5-liter and5.0-liter engines.

Debuting stealthy, flat-black accents, the FX appearance package offersa unique 20-inch flat-black wheel, a stylized bodyside graphic andblack badges with red lettering. Customized interior touches includeblack leather seating surfaces with red trim, brushed-metal accents anda red-stitched steering wheel.

All of the upgrades complement the fuel-efficient and powerful power-train offerings that debuted in 2011. The powertrain lineup delivers amix of best-in-class horsepower, torque, capability and fuel economy,with each engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

ENHANCED CAPABILITYUpgrades on the 2012 F-150’s drivetrain include replacing last year’selectronic shift-on-the-fly with a two-speed automatic 4x4 system forLariat, King Ranch and Platinum trim levels. The system still offersfour high and four low modes, but now also offers a 4x4 auto mode.If the truck senses a loss of traction, it immediately transfers torque tothe front wheels, making the system more seamless for the customer.

A new feature, Hill Start Assist, helps keep the truck from rollingbackward at a stop, making it easier to pull away when on a slope orhill, especially when towing. With the brake pedal pressed, if sensorsdetect the vehicle is on a slope, the system is automatically activated.Brake pressure is held in the braking system, and the truck remainsstationary on the slope for up to two seconds after the driver releasesthe brake pedal.

The addition of neutral tow capability on all 4x4 trucks means cus-tomers can now flat-tow their F-150, making the truck even moreusable. An available electronic locking rear axle replaces most of thelimited-slip offerings on the 3.5-liter EcoBoost® and 5.0-liter engines.It is now available in a range of axle ratios, and is even offered on4x2 models, delivering a new level of traction capability across mostof the F-150 lineup.

Call 813-980-3673for more information.

New Chevy 3500

Regular Cab Chassis 2WD,12' FLATBED, 11,400lb GVWR, Duramax Diesel (NOUREA TANK), Allison 6 speed automatic, AC, AM/FMStereo, Locking Differential, Cruise Control, IntegratedTrailer Brake Controller, Dual Air Bag, Security Features,Daytime Running Lights, Intermittent Wipers, PowerBrakes. Pricing includes all eligible rebates and incentivesassigned to dealer. Prices are plus tax, tag, and $99 dealerfee unless you have or are eligible for a GM FAN,call today to see if you are eligible for additionalincentives or discounts.

This truck is ready to work!Call us today at 813-359-5420.

Truck Review Ford F-150


The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

MARCH 17“THE FIDDLER” BOB RYMANA ST. PATRICK’S DAY

BALLROOM DINNER SHOWCome celebrate the event! Ryman is a masterof the violin and takes you through a magicaljourney of the classics to country favorites.The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform.Car show in the afternoon and deck partywith a St. Patty’s tradition of green beer be-fore the show. Pre-show at 7–Main-show at 8.

MARCH 17RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MARCH 23 thru 24DOO WOP WEEKENDEXTRAVAGANZA VISTARRING - BARBARA HARRIS & THE TOYS

THE MYSTICS • THE LEGENDARY TEENAGERS

JIMMY GALLAGHER OF THE PASSIONS • DESTINY

THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS • BOB RYMAN

The annual event is taking on its sixth yearof fun, food, contest and great music from abygone era. Friday night performances in-clude: The Mystics, Jimmy Gallagher (leadsinger of the Passions), Barbara Harris &The Toys and The Las Vegas Sounds.Saturday night performances include:The Mystics, Jimmy Gallagher, The Leg-endary Teenagers and The Las Vegas SoundsBand will perform in the Ballroom. BobRyman will perform in the Dining Room.

MARCH 30JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK &ROLL REVUEPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room, plus Destiny.

MARCH 31BOB RYMANBob Ryman is a master of the violin. Rymanplays favorites from Bluegrass to Broadway,from Country to Classics. Destiny before andafter the show in the Red Rose DiningRoom.

APRIL 6BOBBY PALERMOBobby Bobby Palermo has been voted TampaBay Entertainer of the Year two years in arow. Enjoy a night of humour, imperson-ations and fabulously listenable and dance-able music. Destiny opens and closes.

APRIL 7TREY DEES AND DESTINYPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

APRIL 8EASTER BUFFETOur chefs are preparing a fabulous feast foryou! The Easter Bunny will stop by for photos.Call for seating times and reservations.

APRIL 13JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK &ROLL REVUEPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room,plus Destiny.

APRIL 14THE JARMELSThe Jarmels are a Doo Wop/R&B group.Their single, “A Little Bit of Soap,” reachednumber 12 in America on the Billboardchart. Destiny opens and closes the show inthe Red Rose Dining Room.

APRIL 20JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK &ROLL REVUEPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room, plus Destiny.

APRIL 21RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

APRIL 27JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK &ROLL REVUEPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room, plus Destiny.

Show Guests stayovernight at special rate!

BobRyman

The Jarmels

Call 813.752.3141 for Reservations Today!

Red Rose Inn & SuitesI-4 Exit 21

2011 N. Wheeler St.Plant City, FL 33563

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia -Owner

APRIL 28SIMPLY STREISANDA TRIBUTE TO THE ARTISTYOF BARBRA STREISAND

Starring Carla DelVillaggio, this AWARDWINNING Tribute Artist has the lookand sound of “the Greatest Star,” theincomparable Barbra Streisand. From the hairdown to the trademark nails, she is “SimplyStreisand” in every way. Destiny performsbefore and after the show in the Red RoseDining Room.

MAY 4BOBBY PALERMOBobby Bobby Palermo has been voted TampaBay Entertainer of the Year two years in arow. Enjoy a night of humour, impersonationsand fabulously listenable and danceablemusic. Destiny performs before and after theshow in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MAY 5THE MARCELSIn 1961 their first recording, “Blue Moon”sold over two and a half million copies. “BlueMoon” has been used in at least four majormotion pictures and various TV shows,such as: Sha Na Na, Cheers, Moonlighting,Laverne & Shirley and Happy Days.Destiny opens and closes in the Red RoseDining Room.

MAY 11JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room, plus Destiny.

MAY 12RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MAY 18BEAUTIFUL BOBBY BLACKMON& THE B3 BLUES BAND

Bobby Blackmon's career began in a smalltown not far from the Dallas, Texas area.His Texas blues influence is heard loud ‘n’proud in his soulful guitar playing. He'sworked with the likes of Barbara Lynn,Jimmy Reed, ZZ Hill, Johnny Taylor,Lavelle White and Lou Rawls. Destiny opensand closes in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MAY 19JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room, plus Destiny.

MAY 25

BRIAN ROMANOne of Canada’s finest entertainers! Romanperforms the classics – spanning the GoldenEra, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones.Destiny also performs.

MAY 26RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

GIFT CARDSAVAILABLE

Johnny Alston’sMotown Rock ‘n Roll Revue

The Marcels

Brian Roman


In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredientstogether.

In a medium bowl, mix all other ingredientsexcept pecans. Pour liquid into dry mixtureand mix just until moistened. Add pecansand mix well.

Pour into 2 well greased and floured loafpans.

Bake at 325 degrees for 1 to 1 ½ hours.Let cool before removing from pans.

Hand picked strawberry recipes by strawberrygrowers, their families and the community.FLORIDA STRAWBERRY GROWERSASSOCIATION.

STRAWBERRY BREADFaye Wetherington

3 c. sliced Florida STRAWBERRIES3 c. flour1 tsp. strawberry flavoring2 c. sugar1 tsp. salt1 c. chopped pecans1 tsp. soda½ tsp. cinnamon1 ¼ c. oil4 eggs1 tsp. vanilla flavoring





There’s a very high probability that ifyou mention the name “Judi” toanyone involved locally with Farm

Bureau or agriculture, they will knowinstantly that you are talking about JudiWhitson, Hillsborough County FarmBureau (HCFB) Executive Director since1991.

Since accepting the responsibilities of thatposition more than 20 years ago, she hasmade her mark on agriculture here andbeyond for her untiring and always smil-ing efforts on behalf of Farm Bureau andagriculture. And those tasks are myriad asshe often tells people “with my job I canbe having lunch with the governor oneday and cleaning toilets the next.”

Yes, she does meet regularly with electedofficials or their aides locally and at thestate level, usually accompanying HCFBboard members, but her wide-ranging jobdescription also includes managing the10,000-square-foot Farm Bureau-ownedoffice building at the southwest corner ofState Road 60 and Mulrennan Road. “It’smy job to make sure the tenants are happyand everything is working properly fromthe air conditioning to the bathrooms,”she said. But there’s more to her position,a lot more. It’s probably best to look backto the beginning to learn just how broadJudi’s reach has been.

“I’m a Navy brat and our family movedaround from my birthplace at Brooksvilleto Virginia Beach on to Jacksonville,” shesaid. She is the next to oldest of five chil-dren, four girls and one boy. “Growing upwe did spend our summers with mygrandmother in Brooksville and thatincluded opportunities for time with twouncles in the area, one had citrus grovesand the other had cows and horses.”

As a high school student in Jacksonville,Judi was very active in her Methodistchurch and the youth fellowship “where Ilearned a good deal about leadership andparliamentary procedure.” Girls were notallowed to join FFA at that time, shenoted. Judi was also involved in music andchorus while in high school, includingmusical type productions.

“I will never forget being cast asStupefying Jones, the seductress in a LilAbner play, and seeing my mother andminister up front in the audience on open-ing night,” she said. “I was mortified.”Whitson’s mother always impressed uponher and her siblings the importance ofwork and putting forth the appropriatelevel of effort on the job all of the time. “Iam proud to say that every year since1968 I have received a W-2 form.”

After graduation from high school,Whitson joined a bank in Jacksonville and

spent three years in that position beforemarrying and moving to different cities.

Whitson and her husband moved fromJacksonville to Charlottesville, NorthCarolina, Pensacola, Savannah and on toTampa as her husband was given differentresponsibilities and positions at severallocations in the trucking industry.

“I worked in each of those cities,” shesaid. “I managed and sold apartments andbecame a district manager for a companywith multi-apartment holdings. I got myreal estate license and wound up sellingmyself out of a job as I sold apartmentsthat I had been managing.”

When she moved to Tampa she went towork for the trucking company that alsoemployed her husband, but the chance foradvancement was not present unless shereplaced her husband and that was not totake place. Then in early 1991 MargeDorman contacted Judi to discuss theopening at Farm Bureau in HillsboroughCounty and that led to a meeting withnurseryman and long time Farm Bureauboard member Roy Davis, who wasHCFB president at the time.

“Roy talked about the many awards thatwere available for our county farm bureaugroup to pursue and win and said hewanted to win them all,” Whitson recalls.

A Name Synonymous with Farm Bureauand Agriculture

By Jim Frankowiak

If you visit the Farm Bureau office andboard room, you will see that Judi tookRoy for his word and has won each ofthose awards, many several times over.

“Judi is intelligent and always willing tolearn what to do,” said Davis. “She hasbecome very good at dealing with electedofficials and their staff members. Thosewere tasks the board members used to takeon,” he said. “She has become a true exec-utive director, effective with all areas of herposition. And that includes the flexibility toconsider the opinions of others.”

Davis also had praise for Whitson’s hus-band, Jack. “He is very supportive andhelpful to Judi in the many things she doeson behalf of Farm Bureau and agriculture.Jack often volunteers to assist at many ofthe events Judi organizes and attends.”

HCFB Board Member Stefan Katzarasbelieves Judi has “gained the respect ofelected officials in the county and their staffmembers as an informed representative ofagriculture who is always accessible. Judidoes not let important Ag issues becomeoverlooked by officials nor does she shyaway from helping candidates or those inoffice not familiar with the importance ofagriculture to learn,” he said. “Whether it’sworking with elected officials, our board orthe community, Judi does a great job. Herpicture should be alongside the definitionof executive director.”

“Judi has done a great job in creating rela-tionships for Hillsborough County FarmBureau that without which we would notbe as an effective organization for ourmembers,” said HCFB Board MemberMichelle Williamson. “Over the years Ihave known Judi, she has devoted herselfto teaching children the importance of agri-culture and that teaching has includedteachers in Hillsborough County, the stateand country. She has made us more effec-tive and she is a joy to work with.”

While Judi highly regards everything shedoes in her Farm Bureau post, there areseveral initiatives that are especially impor-tant to her. Ag –Venture is one and anoth-er is Farm City Week. Both help to educatenon-Ag segments about the importance ofagriculture in our daily lives. Ag-Venture isa “hands-on” learning experience designedto teach third grade students inHillsborough County about the impor-tance of agriculture to help them developan understanding and appreciation ofwhere their food comes from and theimpact of agriculture on their everydaylives. It is based at the Ag-Venture facility

at the Florida State Fair grounds. Judihas taken this program from its infancyand just 250 student visitors a year to cur-rently 7,500 students a year. “We are atmaximum capacity now,” she said.“Each session requires 100 volunteers aday per field trip. We can only grow withmore volunteers.”

Farm City Days is an outreach activitywhereby Farm Bureau and other agricul-tural interests exhibit in downtownTampa to help educate urban residentsabout agriculture and its importance.“Most people don’t really appreciate theabundance of safe and high quality foodchoices we have in this country and theyfail to recognize the importance of agri-culture in maintaining these choices.Outreach, such as Farm City Days, isdesigned to share that important informa-tion as it relates to decisions on laws andregulations that arise and threaten agri-culture,” she said.

Ag-Abilities is another outreach programJudi is involved in. This effort targets spe-cial needs students and is tailored to pro-vide them with an agricultural experienceso they, too, will come to understand andappreciate the importance of agricultureto us all. “We have adapted some farmequipment that enables these young peo-ple to experience what it’s like to operate

a tractor,” she said. “Their reaction andwide smiles are just wonderful and makethe hard work all so worthwhile.”

The last several months have been partic-ularly busy times for Judi and her col-leagues. January included a trip toTallahassee for Judi and some of thecounty Farm Bureau directors for meet-ings with our legislative delegation.

“We must keep reminding our electedofficials of the importance of agricultureand how certain issues could have a detri-mental impact right down to what we areable to offer our families at meal time,plus the economics of agriculture and itsimportance to Florida’s economy.”

February brought the annual FloridaState Fair and added opportunities toeducate the many attendees and digni-taries about the role of agriculture andthis month brought a similar opportunitywith the Florida Strawberry Festival.

“State Fair meant 14 straight days at thefairgrounds from set up to the fair itselfand take down afterwards. Sure, it getstiring at times, but I truly enjoy what I amdoing,” she said.



Through these many activities, there is one thing that Judi enjoys themost and that is “the teaching aspect of what I do, whether directedto youngsters or adults. So many of all ages just don’t understand theimportance and value of agriculture and its vulnerability. Whether itis increased regulation, loss of agricultural lands to development orother issues, people must understand what’s at stake.”

“Judi makes us all look good in whatever she does for Farm Bureauor agriculture,” said HCFB Director Jemy Hinton. “For someonewho came into her position from a non-agricultural background,Judi has done a great job and has earned the respect and support ofanyone associated with agriculture. I think Judi is HillsboroughCounty Farm Bureau and a great partner with Florida Farm Bureau,”said Hinton. “We are fortunate to have Judi on our team.”

“One thing about Judi and her efforts is that she works long andhard behind the scenes,” said Stephen Gran, acting director of theEconomic Development Department for Hillsborough County. “Sheis very effective in that manner and she has been very successful onbehalf of Farm Bureau and agriculture regarding many issues.”

Though a very busy person, Judi does find time for special activitieslike being with her grandchildren and continuing her lifelong love formusic as a member of the Sweet Adeline’s Toast of Tampa Chorus,which took home fifth in the world honors at the 2011 competitionin Houston. “We rehearse weekly and compete every other year atdifferent locations.”

There’s travel with Jack, too. “Jack rebuilt a 1936 Plymouth from theground up over an eight year period,” she said. “While he continuesto make changes and improvements to “Mavis,” we do participate incar shows.” Judi is fond of nicknames for her children and grandchil-dren. Jack’s truck was delivered to their home by Dallas Mavis TruckLine hence the name “Mavis.” As to the future, Judi sees “more ofthe same. I love what I do and I’m having a ball.”

Current HCFB President Danny Aprile considers Judi to be “anexceptional person. I think the world of Judi and all that she does forour organization and agriculture. She is smart, hard-working andalways pleasant. Judi does a terrific job for us whether it’s dealingwith elected officials, our board or reaching out to the community.” •

A special thanks to Judi from Farm Bureau, the people of agricultureand the community.










W W W.INTH EFI E L DMA G A Z I N E.C O M66 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE MARCH 2012


Spend two hundred and twen-ty-two dollars in the grocerystore and you start to wonder

how in the world you’re going tokeep feeding your family. Certainlymany Americans are in the same predica-ment and that’s why so many of them arestarting to investigate the possibilities ofhome vegetable gardening and CSA’s andthe overall concept of self-sustained living.We need only go back a hundred or soyears and we see that the majority of thiscountry lived that way. They say that his-tory repeats itself and the fact of the mat-ter is, we’ve got to do something about therising costs of food (and everything else forthat matter). Cassie McClelland ofBarnyard Blessings 4H understands thenecessity of education on the subject andshe “blesses” the children in her 4H clubwith plenty of hands-on-experience in thisrealm.

Cassie and her husband are not strangersto agriculture. She says, “My father wasthe livestock inspector for this area for thestate for 15 years. He checked in the live-stock for the fairs and festivals. He wasone of the main inspectors. I grew up withthe livestock aspect of agriculture.We always had cattle so we dealt with hayand hayfields, chickens, all the family farmtype things. My husband grew up in therow crops, strawberry, side of agriculture

so we have a good balance. His family hada strawberry farm for a good 20 years andwould grow other crops out of berryseason.” That Ag focus has continued intheir own home. She adds, “At our homewe focus on gardening and raise chickensfor eggs and dabble in all sorts of self-sufficiency products.”

Though they are both farm children, bornand raised, Cassie reveals that as childrenneither of them were involved in 4H. Sohow then did they end up as leaders of theBarnyard Blessings 4H club? “We got intothis 4H group when my daughter becameold enough to be involved in somethingand we wanted her to be involved in agri-culture. We found the Barnyard Blessingsgroup through our home-school groupbecause the former leaders were membersthere. We ended up inheriting the groupbecause their children were beginning tograduate and were more involved in theleadership and public speaking part of it.”The McClelland’s have led this 4H groupfor one year at this stage though they’vebeen members for at least three. Accordingto Cassie, their group is comprised mostlyof younger kids, though there are somenew members who are teenagers.

There is an interesting spin on theBarnyard Blessings 4H group that youdon’t find in a lot of other 4H clubs.Cassie explains it this way, “A lot of thefamilies we know who live in this area, are

looking for self-sustainability projects sothat’s what we focus on more in our grouprather than showing the animals. Ourgroup has spread by word of mouth. Lastyear we had 15-18 to start with and thisyear we have 30 and that’s strictly beenword of mouth, friend telling friend orsomeone telling about the different proj-ects we’ve done. We do a lot of activitiesduring our meetings. We try to get the chil-dren involved in what we’re doing, insteadof doing a demonstration during the meet-ing, we try to do different field trips.”

The McClelland’s oldest daughter, Eliza,who is nine, is the President and sheappears quite thrilled to be so involved.Eliza explains, “Last year our activitieswere family camping in our backyard, andwe’re going to do it again this year. Wehave made strawberry shortcake (which isone of my favorite things we’ve done). Wemade homemade whipped cream. We gotthe cream from a local home dairy and wewent there. The lady’s name is Ms. Sundi.She showed us partly how to milk byhand. We have started practicing archeryand we’ve done lots of games aboutarchery. We are going to have a lady comeover with her daughter and let us try, andshow us how to do the spinning wheel.They raise Angora rabbits and they’regoing to bring rabbits and some unwashedhair fibers from different kinds of animals,rabbits and sheep.”

By Ginny Mink


Cassie jumps in here and clarifies, “Thewomen are from Funny Face Farms. We’regoing to learn how to do drop spindles. Wehave a project where the children are goingto build homemade spindles like they didin the olden days. We have several familieswho are interested in sheep and this ladytakes the raw wool and shows us how it’swashed and carded and hand-dyed.” Thenshe adds, “We have a young man in ourgroup who is a proficient carver so he’sgoing to give the children a hand-carvinglesson.”

This is a very busy bunch, and not justbusy with the typical activities found in 4Hclubs, but in lessons that are both histori-

cally based and if the economy continuesto plummet, will be hugely valuable. Yet,they also involve themselves with other 4Hgroups and so Cassie wants everyone toknow, “We will be participating in theannual strawberry-u-pick that takes placeon March 17 at Fancy Farms. I think it’sall day. There will be 4H students outthere helping older folks who can’tu-pick, they’ll pick for them. Some willbe out there raising money as a fundraiserfor their group to have funds to do theiractivities or have money to do their serviceproject.”

In concluding, Cassie describes a pastservice project her club did, “This past

Christmas our group chose to purchase agoat and several chickens for one familyand several chickens for another familythrough World Vision. That’s a source ofincome for those families in third worldcountries. It gives them a source of food ora source of income and since it’s agricul-ture we thought it’d be a good thing todo.” Given the list of activities and learn-ing opportunities already provided itappears that just about all BarnyardBlessings 4H is doing are good things! Maythey continue to bless the children undertheir tutelage.


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Florida Commissioner of Agricultureand Consumer Services AdamPutnam and Florida State Forest

Service Director Jim Karels have launched,“Operation Outdoor Freedom (OOF),”a new program inviting wounded servicepersonnel and veterans to enjoy recre-ational activities at Florida state forests.The new initiative formalizes a departmen-tal tradition of hosting wounded warriorsat Florida forests through a partnershipwith the Wounded Warrior Project(WWP).

“Operation Outdoor Freedom is a saluteto the selfless service of Americans veter-ans – the men and women who put theirlives on the line for a cause greater thanthemselves,” said Commissioner Putnamas the program was announced late in2011.

Under the program, five areas withinFlorida state forests across the state havebeen designated as special hunt areas andare fully equipped to accommodate anyveteran regardless of his or her injuries.“Nearly 100 wounded warriors have par-ticipated in the program thus far withhunts for deer, hog, quail and turkey, aswell as some exotics on certain tracts,”

said Ned Waters, an Area Supervisor withthe Florida Forest Service and FieldCoordinator for Operation OutdoorFreedom.

“It has been especially gratifying to see thesupport of local groups and guides for thisprogram,” said Waters. That help hasincluded cash donations, the use of equip-ment, guide services and the constructionof shooting houses. “Participants do so atno cost and all funds and services for theprogram are donated,” said Waters.

Groups of Wounded Warrior participants“range in size from three to 12,” saidJonathan Pruden, Manager of Alumni forthe Southeast of the Wounded WarriorProject. He also serves as liaison betweenthe Wounded Warrior Project and theFlorida Forest Service. “I am involved inthe selection of program participants,coordination of their travel to the huntlocations amid Florida’s four forestry dis-tricts and ongoing support to help makesure their experience is as beneficial aspossible.”

The program had its beginnings in aninformal partnership with the FloridaForest Service that began “about three

years ago,” said Pruden. “The formaliza-tion of the program through Florida leg-islative action creates a wealth of opportu-nities going forward,” he said.

During the 2011 legislative session,Commissioner Putnam, in partnershipwith the Florida Legislature, designatedareas of the Florida State Forests in honorof and for use by active service membersand veterans of the U.S. military who wereinjured in the line of duty. The legislativemeasure was sponsored by Senator AlanHays and Representative Greg Steube.

Wounded Warrior Project exists to honor

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE INTRODUCES

Enables Wounded Warriors to Enjoy Recreational Activities at State ForestsBy Jim Frankowiak


Wounded Warrior Project exists to honorand empower Wounded Warriors whoincurred service-connected injuries on orafter September 11, 2001. With advance-ment in battlefield medicine and bodyarmor, an unprecedented percentage ofservice members are surviving severewounds or injuries. “As a consequence,our initial focus with Operation OutdoorFreedom is wounded service membersand veterans who were injured on orafter September 1, 2001,” said Pruden.“However, the formalization of this pro-gram by the legislature and outpouring ofsupport bodes very well for the future andthe opportunity to broaden the involve-

ment of veterans and service personnelinjured prior to 9/11,” he said, notingFlorida is home to approximately 1.5 mil-lion veterans.

“Whether participants have a history ofhunting or are making their debut in thefield, their involvement in OperationOutdoor Freedom is a major step forwardas they benefit from sharing stories andexperiences with men and women whohave been on similar broken paths,” saidPruden.

With the mission to honor and empowerWounded Warriors, WWP is the hand

extended to encourage warriors as theyadjust to their new normal and achievenew triumphs.

In addition to OOF, WWP offers a varietyof programs and services to help warriorswith every type of injury from the physicalto the invisible wounds of war.

For additional information aboutOperation Outdoor Freedom and/orhow to become a part of theWounded Warrior Project, contactPruden via email:[email protected].


“I was driven by my goal to do better thanlast year, as well as my passion for compet-ing and driving,” said Kyle Bowman aftercompeting in the FFA District level TractorSafety and Operations contest. The eventwas held at the HCC campus in Plant Cityon January 24. After practicing for months,Kyle was ecstatic to be able to represent theLennard FFA Chapter. After he advanced tothe District level after months of practice,continued from his first place victory at thesub-district level, Kyle felt he was ready.

“I drove mock courses approximately threetimes a week, and studied questions, prepar-ing for districts.”

Competitors in this contest were requiredto complete a written exam on tractoroperation and safety, answer three randomlyselected oral questions, and then demonstratetheir knowledge of tractor operations bysuccessfully driving a preset course. Kyleplaced second overall in the event, earning ared ribbon for the chapter.

PHOTO ID - left to right: Kyle Bowman, Joy Bordner, Madi Brown, Lucas Worley, Erin Elsberry, Rebecca Knowles,Natalie Hausler, Randall Casey, Tyler Leonard, Rey Penaloza, and Roger Smith.

FFA members from all across Hillsborough County gathered to compete in the county level NurseryLandscape and Floriculture Career Development Event, held January 26 at the County Extension office.Among these competitors were several members representing the Lennard FFA Chapter, Joy Bordner,Kyle Bowman, Randall Casey, Natalie Hausler, Rebecca Knowles, Tyler Leonard, Rey Penaloza, RogerSmith, and Lucas Worley. These students were required to demonstrate their knowledge of the horticultureand floriculture industry through a series of identification practicums and a general knowledge assessment.In the individual placings Kyle and Rey tied for fourth high individual, Randall earned second high individual,and Lucas earned high individual, and first in all of the contest categories. The Lennard FFA Chapter teamplaced first overall in the competition.

Kyle BowmanTakes the Ribbonfor Lennard FFA



Oneof the most important and chal-lenging responsibilities you mayever have is raising children. The

challenges come from a variety of sources:the children themselves, the friends theyhave chosen and the environment in whichthey are being raised.

It is not uncommon for parents to becomeconfused, frustrated, weary and unsure ofwhat to do next as they strive to raise theirchildren. Hillsborough County Extensionhas long recognized this need and hasstriven to make its parenting class offer-ings as timely as possible for parents resid-ing in the county. Led by Family LifeEducator Diana Converse, an experiencedparent who has raised three daughters byherself, the classes “are designed to offertips and new ideas to help make parentinga good experience,” said Converse.

“We offer parents practical advice and tipsnot just a lecture on what the experts haveto say in their textbooks,” said Converse.“Parents will get answers to their ques-tions and they will have the chance to talkto other parents about their successes andchallenges. There is also the opportunityto brush up on current knowledge since it’sno secret times have changed a good dealsince they were children being raised bytheir parents.”

The basic set of parenting classes are heldthree consecutive Wednesday mornings atthe Extension Office, 5339 County Road579, Seffner. The classes begin at 9 a.m.and conclude at 11:30 a.m. The initialclass discusses a “Balanced ParentingStyle” and Enhancing your Child’s SelfEsteem. During the second class, parentslearn about “Effective DisciplineTechniques” and “What Your Child Needsto Succeed.” The final session covers

“Family Communication Skills” and“Managing Your Stress.” There is a $20fee for the entire set of three classes.

“To be a ‘balanced’ parent means to bal-ance love and limits when raising chil-dren,” said Converse. “We use the termslove and limits to describe a parent’s disci-pline orientation, while parenting stylerefers to the way parents communicatewith and discipline their child.” She saidthere are four basic and universal parent-ing styles: demanding, permissive, neglect-ing and balanced.

“Parents are usually a combination ofstyles, but often one style is stronger thanthe other,” said Converse. “A parent’sstyle can often predict the outcome of thechild. For example, children whose par-ents used the demanding style all of thetime may have children revolt againstauthority, while children raised with a per-missive style may become disrespectful.”

The balanced parent combines thestrengths of the demanding and permissivestyles while eliminating the weaknesses ofeach style. They tend to be rational andpatient disciplinarians and they are highlytuned in to their child’s developmentalneeds. Converse said children of balancedparents tend to excel academically, havehigh self-esteem and respond well to rea-sonable rules and expectations.

“The underlying principle with the bal-anced parenting style is that children learnto be independent and responsible whendiscipline is used to reach and guide, butnot punish, manipulate or control thechild,” said Converse. She suggests parentsthink of three bubbles floating over theirheads. The bubbles are labeled respect,nurture and discipline. “Being a balanced

parent is about keeping these bubbles allabout the same size as you make deci-sions,” she said. “Respect means givingchildren freedom of thought and expres-sion and it’s just as important as love andlimits. Sounds easy, but as balanced par-ents know, it takes hard work!”

Later this spring, Extension will be offer-ing a series of classes entitled: “Teening-upwith your Adolescent: Parenting ChildrenAges 10 – 16.” Topics covered in thefive sessions include: The Teen Brain,Transitions in Adolescence, PositiveDiscipline, Understanding Teen Anger andManaging Yours and Talking to Teensabout Dating, Sex, Drugs and alcohol andEmpowering Teens to Build Assets.

Extension also offers a state-approvedclass for parents involved in divorce orcustody issues. The State of Floridarequires completion of this four-hourcourse when minor children are involvedin a divorce or custody process. There is a$25 fee for this course and it includes aworkbook. There is a sliding fee scale forthe class.

Additional information on Extensionparenting classes is available at

http://urlmin.com/HillsboroughParentingYou may also call or email Diana

Converse at 744-5519, ext. 54140 [email protected]

Options Range from Basics to Age-related SessionsBy Jim Frankowiak

Diana Converse


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W W W.INTH EFI E L DMA G A Z I N E.C O M

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86 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE MARCH 2012



As the temperatures begin to rise, so dothe pest pressures on landscapes. Justthe thought of anything having an

adverse effect on the appearance of land-scapes can raise the question, “What can bedone to prevent or stop damage on myclient’s property?”

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) provides asustainable approach to managing pests byusing biological, cultural, physical/ mechani-cal, and chemical control methods in aplanned approach. IPM provides long-lastingstrategies resulting in more consistent pestcontrol, and can reduce business expensesby using less pesticide, fuel, and equipment,minimize pest resistance, and reduce waterpollution due to runoff and leaching.

The first step in an integrated pest manage-ment program is proper identification of thepest. Pests include:• Insects, such as aphids, whiteflies and

chinch bugs• Insect-like organisms, such as mites,

spiders and fleas• Microbial organisms, such as nematodes,

viruses and mycoplasmas• Weeds or any plant growing where

it is unwanted• Mollusks, such as slugs and snails• Vertebrates, which include fish, birds andmammals, such as armadillos or rats

Monitoring the landscape by visually observ-ing for pests and signs of pest damage willhelp with identification and reduce damage.Keeping an eye on how things are doing yearround will aid in accurately determiningwhen damage begins and how the damageprogresses. If you are unable to identify asuspect pest or determine the cause of dam-age, take a sample to your County UF/IFASExtension Service, for diagnostics, beforetaking any action.

Proper identification will assure that thesuspected pest is actually the pest causing the

damage or damage significant enough to takeaction. Many insects and other organisms arebeneficial and may actually be protecting thelandscape by preying on harmful organisms.The presence of a pest does not mean thatunacceptable damage will occur. Some dam-age should be tolerable, so it is important tobe familiar with the level of damage yourclient is willing to accept before taking action.

Identifying the pest also provides informationon the pest life cycle and the best time duringthe life cycle to control the pest. Many pestscause damage only during a particular lifecycle stage and are controlled more success-fully during a particular life cycle stage. Thelife cycle causing damage and the life cyclewhen control is more effective may not be thesame.

Once the pest has been identified consider allof the options available for control. First, trycultural, physical/mechanical or biologicalcontrol options, if that fails use appropriatechemical controls.

Cultural practices prevent pests from becom-ing a landscape problem by managing thelandscape to make it less favorable to pests.Examples of cultural practice include:• Use the right plant in the right place by

choosing the most appropriate and carefree plants for a location. Consider soiltype, moisture, light, cold hardiness,mature size, and any previous siteproblems.

• Buy only clean, pest-free plants.• Choose pest and disease resistant varieties.• Irrigate with the right amount of water

at the right time. Too much or too littleirrigation contributes to pest problems.Foliage that stays wet from irrigationencourages disease.

• Fertilize appropriately. An overload ofnitrogen causes an abundance of lushgrowth that is very attractive to pests.

• Good air circulation discourages pestsand disease.

Commercial Horticulture/IPM/Small Farms Agent,UF/IFAS Hillsborough County Extension

Adult Big-Eyed Bug

Adult Predatory Stink Bug

Adult Assassin Bug

Adult Brown Lacewing

Adult Praying Mantid

• Clean tools and equipment to prevent the spread of disease.• Get rid of diseased plants and dead plant tissue promptly.• Mulch to prevent weeds, disease, and insects while protecting

against moisture and fertilizer loss.• Observe indicator plants for clues on environmental conditions.

For example, Dollarweed in turf indicates excessive moisture.

Physical or mechanical controls prevent or lessen a pest infestationby using physical barriers or interference. Physical controls include:• Use traps and baits when a population is anticipated and as

a monitoring tool.• Mulch to prevent weeds; keep soil borne disease from splashing

onto the lower leaves of plants during irrigation, and serve as abarrier to soil insects.

• Remove weeds that harbor pests and disease.• Remove larger pests, such as caterpillars, by hand or prune

damaged limbs.• A strong blast of water will control small infestations of some

pests like aphids and scale.

Biological controls involve conserving and protecting beneficialorganisms in the landscape. Encourage plants that provide shelter oran alternate food source for the beneficial species, minimize distur-bance to the soil and use a narrow range pesticides that only targetthe pest. Add beneficial predators to the landscape when their over-all populations are not sufficient to control a pest or when youanticipate an infestation at a particular time of the year.

Chemical pesticides should be used when other less toxic and lessexpensive methods are not practical or do not work. When usingpesticides start with the least toxic registered for the pest, such ashorticultural oils or insecticidal soaps. Using pesticides inappropri-ately can lead to pest resistance. Pest resistance occurs when a pest isable tolerate a pesticide that once controlled it and is associated withthe repeated use of the same pesticide or pesticide class. Alwaysrotate pesticides with different modes of action to avoid pesticideresistance.

IPM is an environmentally sound alternative to pesticide use alone,that uses a combination of pest control strategies to reduce the riskof exposure of harmful pesticides to people, animals, and the envi-ronment.

For more information see the UF/IFAS IPM website athttp://ipm.ifas.ufl.edu/index.shtml.

BENEFICIAL INSECTSgAdult Big-Eyed BugThe big-eyed bug may be small at 1/6” long, but it is a voraciouspredator of many very small agricultural and horticultural pests.Credit: UF/IFAS

gAdult Predatory Stink BugPredatory stink bugs prey on many species of plant damaginginsects. Credit: UF/IFASgAdult Assassin BugAssassin bugs are predators of a wide variety of soft bodied insectpests but can inflict a painful ‘bite’ if handled. Credit: UF/IFASPhoto by Megha Kalsi

gAdult Brown LacewingBrown and green lacewings are small insects with lacy wings thatfeed on small soft-bodied pests such as aphids, mites, and mealybugs. Credit: UF/IFASgAdult Praying MantidPraying Mantids are large green or brown insects that look likesticks or twigs. They consume a wide variety of insects.Credit: UF/IFAS Photo by Joe Singleton


FAMILY OWNED & OPERATEDIN BUSINESS NOW FOR OVER 15 YEARS

We Make

Window

Screens

• Code Approved Windows• Window Rooms• Screen Rooms• Carports• Awnings• Wood Paneling• Steps• Alcoa® Vinyl Siding• Skirting• Doors (Interior & Exterior)

813752-3378OPEN SATURDAYS: 8:30-5:00

2670 Hwy. 92 EPlant City, FL

[email protected](Between Lakeland and Plant City)

• Roof Overs• Metal Roofing• Shower Stalls• Complete Line of Plumbing• Trim Moulding• Vanities• Kitchen Cabinets• Antiques• Stepping Stones/Pavers

HOME & MOBILE HOME SUPPLIESNEW, USED and ABUSED!NEW, USED and ABUSED!NEW, USED and ABUSED!



Auto Auto ServicesServices

Auto Services

“We Are A FULL SERVICE Garage”

3159 Hwy. 60 East3 miles east of BrandonServing Brandon Since 1971

www.brandonauto.com

(813) 689-8131

• Body Shop• Used/Reman Transmission• Engine Diagnostic/Tune Up• Maintenance/Repairs• CV Axles• Drive Shafts• AC Repair• Alternator/Starter• Brakes

Inc.

GUARANTEED USED PARTS• Large selection of Used Tires• New and Used Glass Installed

2 YearPart Replacement

& LaborGuarantee!




Classifieds Tel: 813.759.6909 [email protected]

ANIMALS

ANIMAL & BIRD CAGESAdd living microbes to improve your soil,Equipment serving the fur-bearing andexotic bird industry. Cages built to order.Wire by roll or foot. 813-752-2230www.ammermans.comSwap July 15, 2012 and Nov. 25, 2012.

BUILDING SUPPLIES

DECKING BRDS. & TILL SIDINGCall Ted 813-752-3378.

DOUBLE INSULATED THERMO PANEStarting at $55. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

SURPLUS WINDOWS DOUBLEINSULATEDStarting at $55. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

MOBILE HOME-SIZED WINDOWSCREENSWe make window screens of all sizesavailable in different frame colors.Call Ted 813-752-3378.

TILL 4 X 8 SHEETB-grade $17.95. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

NEW DOORS CLOSEOUT SPECIAL!!!$75 to $295. Call Ted today 813-752-3378.

MOBILE HOME TUBSMetal brand new in box 54” Mobile HomeTubs. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

COUPONS

SAVICH & LEE/STALNAKERHorse Fence 200’x4’, Sheep & Goat Fence330’x4’ 1 to 3 rolls - $2.50 off, 4 or more -$5 off, 10 piece limit. Field fence 47” 1-8 -$2.50 off, 9 or more - $5 off, 10 piece limit.Barbed Wire - 5 or more - $1 off 10 piecelimit. Pick up ONLY while supplies last.See our ad on page 81 for pricing.

EQUINE SERVICES

HORSE BOARDINGStalls and individual turnout, lighted arenaand round pen. Owners on property.$300 full care. Call 813-610-4416.

FARM EQUIPMENT

DEUTZ 6275 TRAILER4X4, 75hp, $7,500 Call Alvie (813)759-8722

KUBOTA B7100With Loader. 4X4, hst. $5,950Call Alive (813)759-8722

KUBOTA L345 TRACTOR34hp, 2wd. $4,250Call Alvie (813)759-8722

MASSEY FERGUSON TRACTOR1980 Massey Ferguson 230. 34pto hp,power steering. $4,500Call Alvie 813-759-8722

HEAVY DUTY TRAILER14’ Shop built, heavy duty trailer, 2 axel withramps. $750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722.

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

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

NEW HOLLAND TC29TRACTOR/LOADER29 pto hp, 268 hrs, $13,000 (UT6406).Ask for David 813-623-3673

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

INTERNATIONAL 3444Diesel tractor w/loader, 3 point lift, pto, runs& works. $3.750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

1984 MASSEY FERGUSON240 tractor, 42 pto hp, 2wd, works great!$5,950. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

TRACTOR WANTEDLate 1950’s, 125hp Allis Chalmers forParts. Tires and seats not important,not running ok. Call (863)287-4724

MAHINDRA 5500Tractor Loader. 55hp 4x4, shuttle trans.585 hrs. w/ backhoe. Grapple rake.$16,900 Ask for Alvie (813)759-8722

FERGSON T030Runs good! $1,350Call Alvie (813)759-8722

GRAVELY 1740Zero turn mower 40” cut.$1,650 Call Alvie (813)759-8722

HYDRAULIC CATTLE SHOOTUsed hydraulic cattle shoot! ManyNew parts $5,000. Call (863)696-0110Or (863)287-1011

FOR SALETRAILER FOR SALE44X12 single wide trailer in WintersMobile Home Park. Zephyrhills 5k or bestoffer. Call (813)967-4515

CHICKEN MANURE FOR SALEDry and available immediately!Call Tim Ford or Danny Thibodeau(863) 439-3232

JOBSFARM SUPERVISORFor UF research center in Balm/Wimauma.FT w/benefits. Responsible for operation &supervision of farm-related activities withinbudget. Maintain field plots/facilities/equip.& spvr field personnel. Must have pest lic.Info call Craig Stanley (813) 633-4117.Apply on line athttps://jobs.ufl.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/welcome_css.jsp for job req. #081061. EOE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERWrite about events in your community.Immediate openings in Hillsborough and PolkCounties. Paid per article. Responsibilitiesinclude covering community events and tak-ing pictures. Email your resume [email protected]

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

LAWN EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES

RUBBER MULCHAll colors, buy 10 bags, get 1 FREE!$8.99 a bag. Call Ted 813-752-3378.

REAL ESTATE

FOR SALE – 45 ACRES VACANT LAND(Pasco County) 45 acres are comprised ofgently rolling hills with big trees & solidground. A great setting for residential devel-opment. To the east of the property is a 60acre parcel (Lake Gilbert) that adds signifi-cant aesthetic value to the 45 acres. Zoning:AR (Agricultural-Rural) Please call HeidiCecil for more information 863-899-9620.

2.66 ACRE NURSERY FOR SALE ORLEASEN. Lakeland with 1,000 sq ft frame house,2 sheds, irrigation throughout.Call Bruce 863-698-0019.

BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA MLS#212769Private home with 3BR, 2.5 baths, unfinishedbasement, nice kitchen, Sunroom, back deckfor cooking out, nestled in the trees, coolenough that there is no AC. Lots of outbuild-ings. A must see! 2.47 acres wooded, lowmaintenance. $180,000. Call Jane Baer w/Jane Baer Realty 1-800-820-7829

BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA MLS#190298Beautiful RV lot with cement pad, deckingincludes the 5th wheel. Less than 2 years old!River’s Edge RV Park offers a large club-house, stocked lake for fishing, heated andcooled laundry and shower facilities. $69,000Call Jane Baer w/ Jane Baer Realty1-800-820-7829

Documents

In The Field Hillsborough