In The Field Hillsborough edition

813-689-1570Full Line of FeedsFull Line of FeedsFull Line of Feeds

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

813-689-1570

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

Corner ofCorner of Martin L. King Blvd. & McIntosh Rd.Martin L. King Blvd. & McIntosh Rd.

Dover, FL 33527Dover, FL 33527

Open: M-F: 8 to 6 pmOpen: M-F: 8 to 6 pmSat: 8-5 pmSat: 8-5 pm

Closed SundayClosed Sunday

Open: M-F: 8 to 6 pmSat: 8-5 pm

Closed Sunday

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

Corner ofMartin L. King Blvd. & McIntosh Rd.

Dover, FL 33527

Harold’s Feed & Pet Supply

Raw • LocalRaw • Local HoneyHoney Wild BirdWild Bird

ChowChowWild BirdChow

All Rubs, Seasonings,All Rubs, Seasonings,& Sauces& SaucesAll Rubs, Seasonings,& Sauces

Purina Horseman’sPurina Horseman’s Edge FeedEdge Feed

Purina Horseman’sEdge Feed

$$11229999$1299

$$11339999$1399

Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013 Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013

Orange Blossom • Wild FlowerPalmetto • Gallberry • Typelo

ON SALE

ON SALE

Whilesupplies

last!

Prices Good from Jan.Prices Good from Jan. 15 - Mar 14, 201315 - Mar 14, 2013Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013

with $5 Coupon At Store

• Suckle Busters• Traeger• Everglades• and more!

SSEENNIORIOR FFEEDEED SENIOR FEED• Complete (Built in Roughage)• Complete (Built in Roughage) w/ Vitamin & Mineral Package w/ Vitamin & Mineral Package• 14% Protein• 14% Protein

• Complete (Built in Roughage)w/ Vitamin & Mineral Package

• 14% Protein

Reg. Price $19.99

Reg. Price $15.49

40 lb bag

Purina Mills

RegionalRecipeAll SizesAll SizesAll Sizes

NewNewNew

1100%%offoff10%off

1100%%offoff10%off

Wildbird Seed ScoopWildbird Seed ScoopWildbird Seed ScoopWith the Purchase of Any Two (2) Bags ofWith the Purchase of Any Two (2) Bags of

Purina Premium Wild Bird Seed - 2Purina Premium Wild Bird Seed - 200 lb and Up!lb and Up!With the Purchase of Any Two (2) Bags of

Purina Premium Wild Bird Seed - 20 lb and Up!* Excludes 40 lb Regional Recipe. Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013* Excludes 40 lb Regional Recipe. Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013* Excludes 40 lb Regional Recipe. Prices Good from Feb. 15 - Mar. 14, 2013

2 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz, 32 oz,96 oz and 192 oz

5.6 oz

Raw • LocalHoney

BeeBeePollenPollenBeePollen

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Contents

4 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013 WWW. INTHEF I E LDMAGAZ INE .COM

FeatureStory

Our New QueenPPaaggee 6688Cover photo by

Stephanie Humphrey

VOL. 9 • ISSUE 4

2012 Queen’s Court

Page 10

Tampa Bay’s

Fishing Report

Page 14

Queen of Hearts

Page 18

Rocking Chair

Chatter

Page 22

Harvest Queen

Page 24

Calabaza

Page 26

Twilight Market

Page 30

2013 Tractor Review

Page 34

Kumquats

Page 38

Growums

Page 43

USDA

Page 79

Strawberry Festival

Page 82

Dough Belden

Page 90

Growums in Springhead

Page 94

Recipes

Page 106

®

Danny Aprile ..............................PresidentBill Burnett ..........................VicePresidentJemy Hinton ..............................Treasurer

Amanda Collins, Roy Davis, David Drawdy,Jim Dyer, James Frankowiak,

Stefan Katzaras, Greg Lehman,Kenneth Parker, Jake Raburn,

Alex Ritzheimer, Marty Tanner, James Tew,Patrick Thomas, Ron Wetherington, Michelle Williamson, Will Womack,

Ray Wood

DIRECTORS FOR 2012-2013

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Judi Whitson, Executive Director813.685.9121

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013 5W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M AG A Z I N E .C O M

From the Editor Index of Advertisers�ITFM Staff

6 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013 W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E .C O M

I just returned from the Fresh From Florida Breakfast at theFlorida State Fair. It is always a pleasure when those involved inthe various facets of agriculture gather together as one big family.

This year Governor Rick Scott, Attorney General Pam Bondi andChief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater joined Commissioner ofAgriculture Adam Putnam in welcoming everyone to the break-fast, held on the opening day of the Florida State Fair.

Those involved in agriculture are an amazing group of people. Ifyou look up the word “agriculturist” in the dictionary, you willfind a definition that reads something like, “the science, art, orpractice of cultivating the soil, producing crops, and raising live-stock and in varying degrees the preparation and marketing of theresulting products.”

Agriculturists are so much more than that. They are a communi-ty of people that are truly passionate about what they do. This isa lifestyle, not a job. The rest of us couldn't survive without agri-culturists. The food we eat, the clothes we wear and a multitudeof things we use every single day are so readily available to usbecause someone with resilient determination, put their blood,sweat and tears into their work.

When you sit down to your next meal, get dressed in the morn-ing, drive your vehicle, among many, many other things, thankthe farmer and rancher. They are the lifeblood of this great stateand our nation. When you see FFA and 4H members with theirprojects, let them know you appreciate their hard work and con-gratulate them on a job well done.

Check out next month’s issue. We will have coverage of theagriculture events from the Florida State Fair and possibly a recapof the newest fried creation available to fairgoers. It just dependson how adventurous I am feeling.

Until Next Month,

Sarah

Crescent Jewelers ............................................................ 71Dad’s Towing.................................................................107DiscountMetals...............................................................17Dr. Barry GaffneyO.D. PA.............................................64Driscoll’s............................................................................65East Coast Ag Products...................................................97Eshenbaugh Land Company..........................................81Fancy Farms .......................................................................9Farm Bureau Insurance...................................................77Farm Bureau Insurance/Jeff Sumner..............................84FarmCredit ......................................................................27Felton’s ..............................................................................51Fischbach Land Company..............................................63Fishhawk Sporting Clays ................................................50Florida Dept. of Agriculture............................................33Florida Strawberry Growers Assoc................................42Forbes Road Produce ........................................................7Fred’sMarket ....................................................... 25& 54Gator Ford........................................................................65Grove Equipment Service................................................49Gulf Coast Tractor ........................................................112Halfacre Construction Company...................................42Harold’s Feed& Pet Supply...................................3& 93Harrell’s Nursery, Inc.....................................................107Haught Funeral Home....................................................75Helena Chemical-Tampa ................................................21Higginbothum..................................................................31Hillsboro State Bank.............................................23& 52Hillsborough County Farm Bureau ............................107Hinton Farms Produce, Inc.............................................41Home Protection Services ...............................................84Hopewell Funeral Home ................................................92I-4 Power Equipment ......................................................62Jane Baer Realty.............................................................110Jarrett-Scott Ford................................................................2Johnson’s Barbeque .......................................................103Jon&Rosie’s Tree Farm..............................................105Ken’sWell Drilling& Pump Service, Inc.......................74Key Plex............................................................................45Loetscher Auto Parts .......................................................74Magnolia Hill...................................................................97Malissa Crawford............................................................37Mark Smith Excavating..................................................74Martin LawOffice.............................................................9Meryman Environmental, Inc........................................11Morrow Steel, Inc............................................................96Mosaic...............................................................................17Myers Cleaners.................................................................37ParkesdaleMarket...........................................................13Pathway BioLogic............................................................40PCAwning .....................................................................105Plant City Tire&Auto Service, Inc.............................107Platinum Bank....................................................................5Poppell Insurance.............................................................57Railroad Credit Union.....................................................98Savich&LeeWholesale.......................................27& 32Seedway ............................................................................25Shrimp&Co Express.....................................................66Sister’s&Company.........................................................67Southside Farm&Pet Supply........................................12South Florida Baptist Hospital.....................................101StephanineHumphrey.....................................................15Stingray Chevrolet .........................................................111Super Service Tire&Auto..............................................83Tampa Bay Times..........................................................100TheHayDepot................................................................81Timberlane Pet Hospital &Resort........................7& 10Tip To ToeDay Spa&Gifts..........................................76Trinkle, Redman, Swanson, Coton,Davis& Smith...............................................................103Vertigro .............................................................................31Walden Lake CarWash..................................................98Walk In BINGO...............................................................95WellsMemorial................................................................27Willie’s ...............................................................................97Wish Farms.......................................................................58Woodside Dental..............................................................85Your Family Jeweler......................................................105Zaxby’s ...........................................................................109

ABCPizza................................................................85Ag Technologies......................................................29Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers .............................25AmericanCancer Society.......................................24Antioch Feed and Farm Supply............................73AquariusWater Refining.......................................80Astin Strawberry Exchange........................60&85B Powerful Promotions........................................105Badcock....................................................................23Bill’s Transmissions...............................................100Bingham...................................................................46Boots and Buckles ................................................104BrandonAuto Services, Inc. ..................................85Brandon Farms .......................................................81BrandonRegionHospital......................................39Brewington’s............................................................11Broke&Poor..........................................................21Brown’s Jewelers...................................................105Buckeye Storage....................................................103Cecil Breeding Farm...............................................48Certis.............................................................16&78Center State Bank.................................................83CF Industries.......................................................108Chuck’s Tire&Automotive ................................76

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 CramptonCalli Jo Parker

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Mona Jackson

PHOTOGRAPHY

Karen BerryAl Berry

Stephanie Humphrey

STAFF WRITERS

Al BerrySandy Kaster

James FrankwoiakSean GreenGinny Mink

Libby HopkinsCalli Jo ParkerLindsey English

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Woody GoreLes McDowell

In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local HillsboroughCounty businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail toa target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of theHillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Grower’s Association.

Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042or you are welcome to email them to: iinnffoo@@iinntthheeffiieellddmmaaggaazziinnee..ccoomm or call 813-759-6909

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

The Lord make His face shine upon you andbe gracious to you.–Numbers 6:25

Index of Advertisers

You Too, CanBe 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 be eli-gible for a drawing to win a FREE NoFarmers No Food Sticker. Send usyour business card or an index cardwith your name and telephone number,the number of the page which youfound the logo and where on that pageyou located the logo to:

InTheField® MagazineP.O. Box 5377

Plant City, FL 33566-0042Winners will be notified by phone.

You Too Can Be A Winner!Search for the logo below and enter now!


88 IINNTTHHEEFFIIEELLDD MMAAGGAAZZIINNEE FFEEBBRRUUAARRYY 22001133 WW WW WW.. IINN TTHH EE FFII EE LL DD MM AAGG AA ZZ II NN EE ..CC OO MM

Dear Readers:

This is a great time for all of us and our families toattend two great Ag-related events. I hope you allenjoyed the Florida State Fair and plan to visit theStrawberry Festival February 28 – March 10.

These annual events are not only great opportunitiesfor families to have a good time, but each affordsthose of us in agriculture to help educate non-agriculture interests about our importance to the community. No Farmers, No Food focuses on ourrole in feeding not just the community, but the wholeworld. Additionally, we are an important economicfactor in our communities, counties, states and nation.That’s today and tomorrow.

Remember, those hard-working youngsters who compete at these events in various categories are thepeople who will be charged with feeding us all in thefuture.

I am pleased to note that the Hillsborough CountyBoard of County Commissioners will be recognizingthe Strawberry Festival and various agricultural inter-ests in a special proclamation it is issuing this month.

This month also marks the annual Food Check-OutWeek, an array of activities held throughout the stateto remind Floridians that our farmers and ranchersproduce an abundance of safe, nutritious foods andcreate the foundation of the quality of life we all enjoy.Here in Hillsborough County, we are once again

preparing and serving a special dinner for residents ofRonald McDonald House in Tampa. My thanks toeach of the volunteers involved in this special activity.

Let me also remind all Farm Bureau members that theWomen’s Leadership Conference is set for March 1-3at the Plantation Inn, Crystal River. If you plan toattend or want to learn more about this importantmeeting, please visit: wwwwww..hhccffgg..oorrgg.

I would like to close by reminding those of you whoare not yet members that Farm Bureau is an organiza-tion for any family – not just farmers and ranchers.We are a low cost, high value grass roots organizationcomprised of families across the country. Take a fewminutes to visit our website: wwwwww..hhccffbb..oorrgg or call813/685-9121. We would be pleased to have yourfamily join us.

Hope to see you at the Strawberry Festival.

Thank you,

DannyDanny AprilePresident

IT’S FAIR TIME!

100 South Mulrennan Road • Valrico, FL 33594 • 813-685-9121

Board of DirectorsDanny Aprile, President; Bill Burnett, Vice-President; Jemy Hinton

Member-at-large; Amanda Collins, Roy Davis, David Drawdy, Jim Dyer, Jim Frankowiak, Stefan Katzaras, Greg Lehman, Kenneth Parker,Jake Raburn, Alex Ritzheimer, Marty Tanner, James Tew, Patrick Thomas, Ron Wetherington,

Michelle Williamson, Will Womack and Ray Wood, Judi Whitson, Executive Director


• The names of all the continents end with the letter they start with.• The oldest inhabited city is Damascus, Syria.• The people killed most often during bank robberies are

the robbers.• Lady Peseshet of Ancient Egypt (2600-2100 BC) is the worldʼs

first known female physician.• Adriaan van der Donck was the first and only lawyer in New York

City in 1653.• It is strictly against the law in Bicknell, Indiana, for a man to

leave his new bride alone and go riding with his pals on hiswedding day. The penalty is a week in jail.

• New Jersey," the Garden State," grows 150 types of fruitsand vegetables.

• The natural yellow color of butter comes mainly frombeta-carotene found in the grass the cows graze on.

• There are approximately 350 squirts in a gallon of milk.• More than 50 percent of the world's population is dependent

upon rice for 80% of its diet.• In Costa Rica, 133 ant species, and 126 beetle species, were

found in just one shade coffee tree.• Every year, North Dakota farmers and ranchers produce enough

wheat to make 108 billion sandwiches.• Possums spread bovine tuberculosis to cattle.

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12

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14 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013 W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M AG A Z I N E .C O M

WWHHAATT IISS MMOOTTIIOONN SSIICCKKNNEESSSS??Almost everyone is susceptible… at onetime or another.

If you’ve ever been sick to your stomachon a rocking boat or a bumpy airplaneride, you know the discomfort of motionsickness. Although it doesn’t cause long-term problems, motion sickness can makeyour life miserable.

People can feel sick from the motion incars, airplanes, trains, amusement parkrides, or on boats or ships. Motion sick-ness is sometimes called airsickness or sea-sickness. Video games, flight simulators,and looking through a microscope also cancause motion sickness. In these cases, theeyes see motion, but the body does notsense it.

WWHHAATT AARREE TTHHEE SSYYMMPPTTOOMMSS OOFF MMOOTTIIOONNSSSSIICCKKNNEESSSS??Motion sickness may cause:• A general feeling of being un-well (malaise)• Nausea or vomiting, or both• Headache• Cold sweating, which means you sweat even though you’re not overheated • A pale appearance

Symptoms usually go away soon after themotion stops. Sometimes it can take a fewdays for symptoms to go away. You maybecome used to motion during extendedtrips, such as on a cruise. If that happens,your symptoms may subside. But whenyou are back on land, the lack of motioncan cause symptoms to return for a shorttime.

WWHHAATT CCAAUUSSEESS MMOOTTIIOONN SSIICCKKNNEESSSS??Motion sickness occurs when the inner ear,the eyes, and other areas of the body thatdetect motion send unexpected or conflict-ing messages to the brain. One part of yourbalance-sensing system (your inner ear,vision, and sensory nerves that help youkeep your balance) may sense that yourbody is moving, while the other parts donot sense motion. For example, if you arein the cabin of a moving ship, your innerear may sense the motion of big waves, butyour eyes don’t see any movement. Thisleads to a conflict between the senses andresults in motion sickness.

WWHHAATT AARREE MMOOTTIIOONN SSIICCKKNNEESSSSTTRREEAATTMMEENNTTSS??The best way to treat motion sickness is tostop the motion. If you can’t stop themotion, sit or lie down in an area with theleast motion. In an airplane, try to sit nearthe wings. On a ship, stay on the deck andlook at the horizon. Or, if you are inside,move to the center of the ship.

You also can take prescription and nonpre-scription medicine to prevent or reducesymptoms of nausea and vomiting. Mostmedicines work best if taken before travel.The medicines work in different ways.Some are sedatives that minimize the effectof motion, others reduce nausea and vom-iting.

The following medicines may help preventsymptoms of motion sickness:

• Scopolamine (Transderm Scop)• Promethazine (Promethegan)

•Antihistamines, including dimenhydri-nate (such as Dramamine). Do not giveyour child antihistamines unless yourchild’s doctor has told you to. If the doctortells you to give your child medicine, be

sure to follow the doctor’s advice on howto give it.

People often try alternative methods ofpreventing motion sickness such as takingginger or wearing acupressure bands.There is little scientific evidence that thesemethods work but there is no harm in giv-ing them a try.

The nice thing about fishing with CaptainWoody Gore is you don’t have to worryabout this problem because I’ve sufferedwith this problem since childhood and Idon’t fish where I or my client’s will getsick.

Folks wonder why I choose guiding as aprofession. For me it’s only bad when I’min rough offshore waters... that is why Ifish mostly inshore, and only occasionallytravel offshore on a calm day. Fortunately,I’m ok in planes and driving or in the pas-senger seat of cars, however amusementrides for me are out.

Here’s what’s worked for me in recentyears. Having tried all the others with nopositive results and hearing for years aboutcinnamon and ginger, I found a couple ofcompanies that produced products I wasable to tolerate. They were:

PPIIRRAATTEESS’’ GGOOLLDD CCIINNNNAAMMOONN--GGIINNGGEERR CCAANNDDYY&& PPIIRRAATTEESS’’ GGOOLLDD GGIINNGGEERR CCAANNDDYYhhttttpp::// // ccccbbaayy..bbiizz//oossCCoommmmeerrccee//ccaattaalloogg//pprroodduucctt__iinnffoo..pphhpp??ccPPaatthh==2266&&pprroodduuccttss__iidd==3311Some further investigations revealed thatcinnamon and gingerhave been used for cen-turies as a natural reme-dy in the treatment ofarthritis, sea sickness,nausea, taste stimulation,morning sickness and are

by Captain Woody Gore

EVER BEEN SEA SICK?YOU’RE NOT ALONE.

Tara with Trout


known for their aphrodisiac proper-ties. These spices were so highly prizedthat fortunes were made and lost andempires were built around their importand export. Once more valuable thangold, these were two of the most profitablespices in the Dutch East India Company

QQUUEEAASSEE EEAASSEE QQUUEEAASSEE EEAASSEE IINNHHAALLEERR

hhttttpp::// //ssooootthhiinngg--sscceennttss..ccoomm// iinnddeexx..pphhpp//Essential oils which have been described ashelpful for the relief of nausea includePeppermint, Ginger, and Spearmint. Thefour essential oils used in Quease Ease arePeppermint, Ginger, Spearmint, andLavender. Ginger, spearmint, and pepper-mint are essential oils that have document-ed efficacy in reducing nausea and vomit-ing. Lavender is added as an anxiolyticand antispasmodic, both of which con-tribute to perceptionof nausea. Althoughthere is no evidencefor effectiveness ofthe collective combi-nation of these essential oils, individualstudies demonstrate efficacy for bothinhalant and botanical forms of the essen-tial oils.

Both products have worked for me withoutany drowsy side effects. Now whenever I’mfortunate or perhaps unfortunate enoughto get outside to fish deep water at least Ihave a couple products that seem to workfor me, and I would recommend both.

““LLEETT’’SS GGOO FFIISSHHIINNGG””TTAAMMPPAA BBAAYY FFIISSHHIINNGG RREEPPOORRTT FFEEBBRRUUAARRYY --MMAARRCCHH 22001133

SSNNOOOOKK:: Fishing is one of those on then offagain things in the cooler months and italso depends on the bait situation. They doseem to be making a strong recovery, but

there is still no reason to open a season onthem until we have some decent fishablenumbers. The average size being caught issmall, but if the season remains closed thelarger fish will come. If you can get livebaits you’re ahead of the game.Greenbacks off the flats usually run small-er during the cooler months, so downsizeyour circle hooks and leader. As tempera-tures drop, look for deep water canals,rivers, creeks with deep muddy-bottoms.

RREEDDFFIISSHH:: The algaes die and the watersclear as cooler weather triggers good sitefishing. Low tides and clear water makesite fishing reds a shallow water anglersdream. We’re catching reds in mulletschools using cut and live bait and alsoartificial lures. Expect some excitingstrikes when pitching soft plastics or topwater’s around the mangroves on high incoming tides. Redfish are often more spo-radic on their movement and patterns, soit’s sometimes hard to rate the health ofthe population.

SSPPOOTTTTEEDD SSEEAA TTRROOUUTT:: Incoming or outgo-ing tides and a top water lure produceawesome strikes on a calm early morningflat. The old standby, live shrimp under apopping cork, always results in fish. Thetrout population are strong and we havebeen landing some large trout. It reallyseems like there is a lot more trout aroundsince the net ban. The 20 plus inch fishseem to be more plentiful than I can everremember. Don’t forget to check out grassand rock bottoms with some artificial jerkbaits. Many times you’d be surprised atthe results.

GGRROOUUPPEERR AANNDD SSNNAAPPPPEERR:: Offshore, with thetighter regulations, Grouper and Snapperfishing are very good. Going out and get-ting a lot of bottom fish action never seemsto be a problem. The inshore grouper bite

is as hot as the offshore. However, youcannot keep any fish caught after October31. Recreational Gag Grouper season isonly open from July 1 through October31. Lots of fish near shore and Tampa Bay,coming up with a few really nice ones, butthey’ve got to go back. Some choice docksare also holding nice fish. The SkywayBridge is also producing some good sizedsnapper and these fish are real fighters.

CCOOBBIIAA:: The cooler temps should push thefish into or near warm water run offs oflocal power plants. Be certain to adhere tothe restricted areas. Don’t forget to checkthe shallow water beach edges adjacent tothe runoffs they seems to hold some nicefish. Also check offshore for schools cruis-ing south.

SSHHEEEEPPSSHHEEAADD:: Sheepshead are found aroundbridges, oyster bars and deep water docks.Try using green mussels, fiddlers (if youcan find them), small black rock crabs,shrimp or oysters and scrape the pilings toget them going.

“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” –813-477-3814 Captain Woody Gore is thearea’s top outdoor fishing guide. Guidingand fishing the Tampa, Clearwater, St.Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Bradenton,and Sarasota areas for over fifty years; heoffers world class fishing adventures and alifetime of memories.

Visit his website at: WWWWWW..CCAAPPTTAAIINNWWOOOODDYYGGOORREE..CCOOMM, send an email to [email protected]

or give him a call at 813-477-3814.


“I’ve got a bad att itude and arotten personality, so our prices

must be good or peoplewouldn’t buy from me!”

Ferris Waller

Discount Metal MartDiscount Metal MartDiscount Metal MartFlorida’s Best PricesFlorida’s Best Prices

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One mile north of I-4, corner of SR 39 and Sam Allen , easy access to I-4

Website: www.metalsystemsinc.comemail: [email protected]



There are many stories about the Florida Strawberry Festival and itshistory over the years, but one of the most interesting parts of thefestival has always been the crowning of the Queen. Nothing tops

the stories of the Royalty – the Festival Queen – who becomes the PlantCity community’s Queen of Hearts.

LLeett uuss ggoo bbaacckk ttoo tthhee bbeeggiinnnniinngg......

It has been common, and even traditional, for agricultural societies tocelebrate the fruit of their labors with a festival. As the strawberry grewin economic importance to East Hillsborough and, indeed, the greaterPlant City area, it became only fitting that the strawberry have its owncelebration.

The Plant City Board of Trade, forerunner of the Chamber of Commerce,held a “Strawberry Day” as early as January 1, 1914. Residents wereencouraged to promote Plant City’s crops and tourism by sending postcards to distant friends and relatives.

At a meeting of the Plant City Lions Club, July 5, 1929, Albert Schneider,first and at that time current President and organizer of the Lions, suggest-ed the members sponsor a festival that would involve Plant City and thesurrounding communities. They accepted the idea and formed a commit-tee to start planning. The City quickly got on board and City ManagerJohn C. Dickerson was named General Manager of the emerging festivalorganization.

The organization’s incorporating Charter was approved by the State ofFlorida and immediately, at a meeting at City Hall, the Strawberry Festivalorganization elected its officers and directors.

The newly incorporated Strawberry Festival organization drew up plansfor the inaugural Strawberry Festival, which would include the selectionand crowning of a Festival Queen. The site ran north from Baker Streetalong the Seaboard Railroad tracks and Michigan Avenue.

The dates chosen were Wednesday, March 12, 1930, through Saturday,March 15, 1930. The Festival Queen, to be selected through a contestsponsored by the Future Farmers of America, would be featured in thegrand parade on opening day and would be crowned at the festivalgrounds.

In addition to the parade and the queen contest, the festival group setplans for floats, vendors, a midway with rides, the Johnny J. Jones

Carnival Shows, bands, demonstrations with plants, flowers, and avariety of food, and of course fresh strawberries.

By February 18, 1930, all the festival booths had been reserved.Announcements were made in the two local newspapers that nominationsfor festival queen were open and that any “maid” or “matron” (that is,single or married) who resides in East Hillsborough County was eligible.They could be nominated by clipping a form out of the newspaper, com-pleting it, and submitting it. The last day to nominate someone for queenwas Monday, February 24. Voting would continue into March, lastingabout two weeks.

Ballot boxes for votes for the Strawberry Festival Queen were placed instores about town to receive votes from the community. Each vote was onepenny, and pennies for votes were placed in clearly marked envelopes.

By February 24, the last day to nominate a candidate for Queen, therewere 36 names submitted. Here are 34 of them.

Minnie Lee Alderman Elizabeth Alsobrook Mrs.Earl BarkerMrs. Charles Daniels Kathryn Dudley Mrs. R. M. FletcherEwana Glaros Annie Ruth Harvey Sarah HendersonMabel Hilsman Mrs. Edgar Hull Mrs. J. Edgar Knight, Jr.Mrs. Harry Lomison Madie Lowry Alice MaxeyStella Moody Louise Nettles Anna Mae NettlesRuby Pratt Charlotte Rosenberg Mamie SappHelen Simmons Nettie Simmons Alice SlyEdna Smith Leola Sweat Margaret StricklandDorothy Sutton Opal Clair Thomas Hazel WigginsIrvine Wilder Hester White Daisy WoodallViola Yates

The balloting for Festival Queen began in earnest Tuesday, February 25.Each paper, the Plant City Enterprise, and the Courier, would print the tenleading candidates on subsequent publication dates. The highest vote get-ter would be elected Festival Queen, the next five highest vote getterswould make up the Court. It is reported that Nettie Simmons, a girl fromDover, was in the lead early, but was soon passed by Irvine HopkinsWilder, of Midway. Irvine Wilder’s lead gave way to Charlotte Rosenberg.

Charlotte Rosenberg’s vote totaled nearly 50,000 and she became the firstStrawberry Festival Queen. Her court was comprised of the next five high-est vote getters – Irvine Wilder, Nettie Simmons, Alice Sly, KathrynDudley, and Alice Maxey.

On opening day, the first Strawberry Festival Queen and her Court led theparade of elaborately decorated floats, decorated cars, horse-drawn car-riages, and marchers. The band struck up a march for the Queen and herCourt as they promenaded to the throne. The platform was decoratedwith a red, white, and blue bunting background and an overdrape of bluematerial with a silver fringe. Potted palms and fern enhanced the thronein the center of the stage.

Albert Schneider, Strawberry Festival President, introducedMayor/Commissioner George A. Carey, who gave a brief speech beforecrowing the first Queen at 2:30 p.m., March 12, 1930. And ever since thattime the queen and the members of her court and their assistants were theRoyalty, and the queen was the community’s Queen of Hearts.

Plant City Photo Archives & History CenterBy Gil Gott

1930 - Charlotte Rosenberg

There are a number of interesting stories about queens in later years and here area few of them.

The 1941 Strawberry Festival has another twist. A young lady named JaneLangford was “absolutely thrilled” when she was crowned by Catherine Fletcher(1940 Queen). The new Queen of Hearts captured the community and they lovedher.

Reportedly the Plant City newspaper, the Enterprise, led a campaign to get thestate’s festivals involved with a State of Florida promotional booth at the September1941 Miss America Pageant to be held at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NewJersey. Strawberry Queen Jane Langford, the Orange Queen, and the WatermelonQueen joined Miss Florida, Mitzi Strother, on an elaborate and beautiful float inthe Miss America Parade. They won first prize and received national acclaim.

Three months later the USA entered World War II. The Strawberry Festival was notheld again until it was revived in 1948, and Jane Langford reigned as StrawberryQueen for seven years. In 1948 Jane, now married to Harrison Wall Covington,placed the crown on the head of Barbara Alley.

Miss Virginia Young joined the Royalty as Queen in 1956, but before long she mar-ried Donald Beery and relinquished her crown to the Court’s First Maid, Mary JaneJackson. The Plant City Jaycees then invited Mary Jane to participate in theStrawberry Days Festival in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, a national event whichbegan in June of 1898. Mary Jane and her mother, Mildred Jackson, attended andreceived warm welcomes and Mary Jane was escorted by cadets from the U.S. AirForce Academy. Much to her surprise, Mary Jane Jackson, Plant City StrawberryQueen, was elected National Strawberry Queen at that festival in June 1956.

The African American community in Plant City had not participated in the QueenPageant until 1971 when the beautiful Marian Richardson entered the contest. In1973 the demure Essie Cecille Dixon became the first African American to be elect-ed to the Queen’s Court.

Victoria Watkins (2011) is part of another story – that of sisters who becameStrawberry Queen. Victoria’s older sister, Ashley Watkins, was crowned Queen in2005, Erica Der served the community as Queen of Hearts in 2003 and her sister,Lauren Der, followed, being crowned Queen in 2009.

That makes two grandmothers, a granddaughter, a mother and daughter, aNational Strawberry Queen, and two sets of sisters. And there are more stories –but those are for another time.

We hope you enjoy the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Pageant, the wonderfulfestival, and the warm and friendly Plant City community.


People don’t seem to have a lot of respect for the South. There’sthis assumption that intellect is lacking if the Southern drawlis apparent. While a true Southerner might sound a stitch

challenged, there’s just something about that twang that strums theheartstrings. If you’re from South Florida or North Anywhere,there’s no doubt you noticed the distinct accent that can only beattributed to good ‘ole Plant City. You’re in luck if this brogue tick-les your fancy because Kelli Messick embodies the Plant Citydialect.

She says, “I’m the youngest of the grandkids on my daddy’s side.My daddy lived in Sydney. I grew up from a long line of farmers.My grandma made her own butter and jams. She’d have homemadestrawberry popsicles in the fridge. We grew up with watermeloneating contests, corn shuckin’s, and pea shellin’s. Kids don’t growup with that anymore. My papa would grind his own sugar cane.Agriculture was just how it was for me. My nana would ring thechickens’ necks in the orange trees and we’d have fresh fried chick-en. I don’t think our children know where the food comes from andhow to appreciate that.” Indeed she is right, too many kids todayare growing up with grocery store mentalities.

She continues, “I think it instilled a lot of character in me, you learnto appreciate how much the farmers do for you. I remember goin’to milk the cow with my nana and comin’ back to the house tostrain the milk and drinkin’ raw cow’s milk. We grew up in a wastenot, want not way.” Unfortunately we don’t live like that anymore,at least not on a whole. Think about the commercial that talksabout how much money in food we throw away each year. Youhave to give Ziploc some credit for illuminating the $500 price tagon that waste, though chances are it’s an even greater loss. Sadly,everything is so easy to attain these days that our children are notexposed to the true value of things, especially food. ApparentlyKelli wasn’t the only one to gain from her farm life, her husband,Greg has his own story.

Kelli shares that Greg, “was born and raised in Plant City as well.Growing up Greg had cows, chickens, goats and swine. Everydayresponsibilities included taking care of the animals. He learned atan early age to drive the tractor for the family business and helearned that hard work was the only option. He recalls he and hisstep-dad watching the temperatures on cold nights. When the tem-perature would get close to freezing they would go to the nurseryand freeze-in. They would spray the plants with water to protectthem from freezing. Staying up for all-nighters were common in thewinter months. It was protect the business or go under.” This con-cept of hard work appears to be lost on the masses and thusly Kelliand Greg wanted to ensure that their children would not fall intothat mentality.

Kelli adds, “If someone doesn’t teach our children about agriculturethey won’t grow up to appreciate it or want to get involved in it.Some children these days don’t understand what it takes to farm.We have three older children, 15, 13 and 12 and two younger chil-dren, 2 and 1. We wanted to teach our children showing swine,steer, poultry, rabbits and plants is not only hard work but it devel-ops character within that child. It will also help them make betterlife decisions as well as develop leadership qualities they will carrywith them throughout their lives. Our motto in our home is, noth-ing worth having is easy. If it was, everybody would do it!” Thisdesire to instill character and an intrinsic drive towards hard workis what led Kelli and Greg to establish the Turkey Creek 4H Club.Kelli explains, “We started Turkey Creek 4H in August 2010 withtwo families, ours and one other family. So now we have about 30members and the ages range from 6-18, mostly pre-teen and olderkids. We don’t have a clover bud group. Our project groups areswine, steer, horticulture, poultry and rabbits. We meet at Lone OakBaptist Church on Lone Oak Road in Plant City on the firstThursday of the month.” Thusly, anyone interested in joining canarrange to attend a meeting or get in touch with Kelli via email:ttuurrkkeeyyccrreeeekk44HH@@yyaahhoooo..ccoomm.

As with all 4H clubs there is a focus on service projects so Kelliexplains theirs. She says, “My son was the president last year andhe started the adopt-a-road program on Sydney Washer Road. Thisyear our group voted to help a couple of widows in the area cleanup their yards and do light housework. We just kind of mow andpick up sticks, vacuum, mop and sweep if they need that. We call itthe Widow Help Program.”

Though their club is a relatively new one, they do have some claimsto fame. “We won the hay bale decorating contest at theHillsborough County Fair, it was a candy apple. That was so excit-ing! Right now is our busy time. We have some kids going to thestate fair with their projects and some going to the StrawberryFestival with their projects and we’ve even got one going to theOsceola County Fair with her dairy cow. So we’ve got kids prettymuch going everywhere. That’s exciting!” Before closing, Kelliwanted to make sure to share the names and positions of those inthe Turkey Creek 4H leadership:

Rachel Carter, PresidentJames Donnell, Vice PresidentReagan Messick, SecretaryLandon Messick, TreasurerNaomi Donnell, HistorianRoxanna Storms, ReporterSarah Carter, Sergeant at ArmsRebekah Messick, Recreational Officer

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Coming up as a youngster I was pretty active in sports. Iloved sandlot football, baseball and basketball. In highschool I managed to letter in track, and played a little foot-

ball for the Plant City Planters.

A few years back I hit the golf ball a little until I had a back oper-ation and had to give it up. I learned to hit the golf ball prettygood. I was at a point in the game where I could almost hit theball as far as I could throw the golf clubs.

They say the word GOLF originally stood for: GGeennttlleemmeenn OOnnllyyLLaaddiieess FFoorrbbiiddddeenn.

My neighbor, Mark Poppell, told me the story of Jim, one of hisgolfing buddies. He said Jim left work one Friday afternoon. Itwas payday, so instead of going home, he stayed out the entireweekend partying and playing golf with the boys and spending hisentire paycheck. When he finally appeared home on Sunday night,the old fella was confronted by his angry wife and was verballybeat up for two hours about not coming home. Finally his wifestopped the nagging and said to him, “How would you like it ifyou didn’t see me for two or three days?” He replied, “Thatwould be fine with me.” Monday went by and he didn’t see hiswife. Tuesday and Wednesday came and went with the sameresults. But on Thursday, the swelling went down just enoughwhere he could see her a little out of the corner of his right eye.

A wife asked her husband, “Honey, if I died, would you re-marry?” After giving it some thought he said, “I guess I would.You know we all need companionship.” “If I died and you remarried,” the wife asks, “would she live inthis house?” He replied, “We’ve spent a lot of money getting this house just theway we want it. I’m not going to get rid of the house, so I guessshe would.”“If I died and you re-married, and she lived in this house, wouldshe sleep in our bed?” she asked.

“Well, the bed is brand new, and it cost us $2,000.00. It will lasta long time, so I guess she would.” “If I died and you re-married, and she lived in this house and sleptin our bed, would she use my golf clubs?” “Oh, no,” the husband replies. “She’s left handed.”

Some time back Forbes magazine ran a story of a Nike televisioncommercial for hiking shoes that was shot in Kenya usingSamburu tribesmen. The camera closes in on the one tribesmanwho speaks, in native Maa. As he speaks, the Nike slogan, ‘JustDo It’ appears on the bottom of the screen. An anthropologist atthe University of Cincinnati, says the Kenyan is really saying, ‘Idon’t want these. Give me big shoes.’ A spokes person for Nikesaid, “We thought nobody in America would know what hesaid.”

Many cities such as Chicago have some pretty rough neighbor-hoods. The gangs are known to play basketball and baseball intheir neighborhood streets. Confrontations are common withpeople passing by. There was one sweet old lady who would oftendo grocery shopping for the elderly in her church. On one hotsummer day one of the women asked her to pick up a few thingsand bring them to her in a dangerous part of Chicago. The sweetold lady had second thoughts, but felt she could not say no, eventhough she was afraid of driving in that part of the city whereshoot-outs and other drug violence was a regular occurrence.

The woman went to the store and picked up her groceries andproceeded to the ladies house. As she entered her neighborhoodshe noticed a bunch of young hoodlums on just about every streetcorner. Even though she had no air conditioning in the car, sherolled up all of the windows in the car tightly as a safety precau-tion when she left the grocery store. She drove past a bunch ofhoodlums and all of a sudden she heard a loud “POP” and felt ajolt to the back of her head. She reached to feel the back of herhead and came back with a wet oozing mess that she was sure waspart of brain. Knowing that she had been shot, the woman turned

around and headed straight to the hospital. Somehow she made itto the emergency room and had the strength to walk in. She toldthe attendant that she had been shot. Immediately she was rushedback to an examination room. Quickly the doctors came in andasked where she had been shot since they saw no blood. She said,“my head,” and the doctors found a mass of the oozing whitesubstance the woman had first noticed. Upon inspection thedoctors realized the white substance wasn’t part of her brain, butwas instead a lump of biscuit dough that had exploded from itscontainer from the heat.

I remember years ago the late Paul Harvey told the story of a littleboy standing alone on the baseball field engrossed in throwing theball up in the air and swinging at it. Each time he pitched the ballin the air, he would swing, but the ball would fall to the groundright in front of him. The little fella would pick the ball up and tossit in the air again and swing.

A man who had been watching this sad exhibition had to speak up.“Not having much luck, are you, little man? I’ve been watching youfor 15 minutes, and you haven’t hit one ball.”“Shows how good I am!” the boy snapped back with a big grin.“I’m the pitcher!”

Remember, the irony of life is that, by the time you’re old enoughto know your way around, you’re not going anywhere. •



Laura-Lorenza Perez, the 2010 Hillsborough County FairHarvest Queen, has chosen to use her Roland and Olive LewisScholarship to attend Florida College in Temple Terrace.

“Laura’s decision also makes her the first Harvest Queen Scholarshiprecipient to take advantage of the matching scholarship offer fromFlorida College,” said Hillsborough County Fair ScholarshipChairman Myke Morris.

Dr. and Mrs. Roland Lewis were chosen as the namesakes for thescholarship in recognition of Dr. Lewis’ tenure and leadership on theHillsborough County School Board for two decades from 1968 to1988. During that period, he served as Board Chair for three, sepa-rate one year terms. Lewis Elementary in Temple Terrace was namedto honor his service to the community and to education. “Dr. Lewis’efforts on behalf of Hillsborough County were made possible by theloving support of his wife, Olive,” said Ralph Walker, Florida CollegeDirector of Public Relations. Both Roland and Olive are nowdeceased.

The $1,000 scholarship award given by the Hillsborough CountyFair to the annual Harvest Pageant Queen is made possible by thegenerous funding of Marvin and Linda Brown of Dover. The scholar-ship is awarded annually to the senior division winner of the pageantcompetition. “The scholarship may be used at any post secondaryschool in Florida,” said Bob Der, Fair Board Chairman. The HarvestQueen is chosen by a panel of judges with selection based on person-ality, appearance and poise, as well as performance during an inter-view with the judges. Should the Queen choose to attend FloridaCollege, where Dr. Lewis was Registrar and a professor from theschool’s origination in 1946 until he retired in 1981, the collegematches the amount of the scholarship.

The daughter of Victor and Kim Hall Perez of Brandon, Laura, whohas completed high school since winning the pageant, took the fol-lowing two semesters off from school “to travel and work withStarpower Talent, Inc., a dance and talent competition,” she said.

Home schooled through high school, Laura attended BrandonAcademy for seven years prior to high school. Appropriately, herextracurricular activities included dance, as her mother owns and hasoperated Kim Hall’s School of Dance for three decades, and racing gokarts.

“I spend a good deal of time at the dance studio with the kidsenrolled in classes and I competed on the competition team for over10 years,” she said. “Though I am an only child, I consider myselfblessed to have over 200 ‘extended siblings’ at my mother’s dance stu-dio.” In addition to dance, Laura follows auto racing with her fami-ly and that includes annual attendance at the St. Pete Grand Prix.

“The Lewis Scholarship and matching scholarship from FloridaCollege are very important to me and to my future plans,” saidLaura. “In a time like this, college can be a huge financial burden.The two scholarships are lifting some of the financial stress. I plan tograduate without debt, and this will help.” Laura plans to study lib-eral arts at Florida College. Her long term goals include “working inthe entertainment industry in some capacity, acting and Broadway,perhaps. Eventually, I want to use my education and love of entertain-ment arts to work in producing or management in Hollywood orNew York City,” she said.

Located in Temple Terrace, Florida College is a private liberal artscollege, offering both two-year associates and four-year bachelordegrees. It is the second oldest institution of higher education inHillsborough County, opening to students in 1946. The school seeksto enrich the spiritual, social, physical and mental character of stu-dents and all students are instructed in the Bible for academic creditand attend chapel devotions every weekday. More than 500 studentsare currently enrolled at Florida College, coming from across the U.S.and several foreign countries.

“We are very pleased that the scholarship funded by the Brown’s hon-ors both Dr. and Mrs. Lewis and gives Florida College the opportu-nity to participate in furthering the education of worthy students inHillsborough County such as Laura,” said Dr. H.E. “Buddy” Payne,President of Florida College. “We take pride in being a Friend toYouth.”

The annual Hillsborough County Fair Harvest Queen competitiontakes place during the fair and is open to girls who are residents ofHillsborough County. The competition’s Senior Division is for com-petitors age 16 – 19, while the Junior Division is for young ladesranging in age from 13 – 15.

2010 Harvest QueenSELECTS FLORIDA COLLEGEBy Jim Frankowiak



“We are eco-gardeners devoted to teaching others the sustain-able benefits of organic gardening. To our surprise, Goddelivered gifts in the form of two giant Calabaza squash we

never planted but miraculously grew out of the bed compost. Wethink of the 32 lb. and 46 lb. squash as something like the loavesand fishes of the bible mentioned in Matthew,” said KarenElizabeth, coordinator of Plant City Commons CommunityGarden (PCCCG) located at 309 N. Carey St.

As a result of the amazing appearance of these Calabaza’s, thecommons group knew they had to give this bounty back to thecommunity.

Through the suggestion of Harry West a commons director, it wasdecided to donate the squash to Christ’s Community Café, in theWesley Annex of the First Methodist Church at 303 N. Ever St.,where he is also a member of the kitchen staff. Although locatedon the Methodist property, the café is a non-denominational ven-ture with five denominations participating in the weekly Fridaymission to feed those in need.

“These gifts from the commons garden are truly ‘Manna fromHeaven’… as we celebrate our second year feeding the homeless,the hungry and those needing fellowship and the blessings of theWord. We prepare table-served meals and are open from 11:00a.m. to 12:45 p.m. every Friday. Once a month we give commun-ion after lunch and once a month we celebrate birthdays. We

would especially like to thank Buddy Bass of Manna on Wheels,Pastor Julio Santana of Bread of Life Mission and the EvangelicalPresbyterian Church for their considerable contributions,” saidNancy Chaney, cafe board chair and associate pastor of FirstUnited Methodist Church.

The commons group successfully works under a master plan com-bining public participation with continuing education involvingnot only sustainable food sources but sustainable energy sourcesas well. It’s all about returning to individual independence andcontrol of our natural resources as an agriculturally productiveand diverse local eco system.

“With the economy and legislation putting our natural resourcesat risk, we feel the public needs to learn how to care for them-selves, individually and collectively. We are working to informthrough instructive training in Permaculture (permanent agricul-ture) – planned design and self-maintenance including; classes,workshops, movies and demonstrations at various area farms andgardens,” said Elizabeth.

To that end, the group is challenging local churches and othercharitable groups to sponsor a bed for growing fruits and vegeta-bles that will supply their own kitchens. The cost is only $25 perbed but, for the privilege of growing their own produce, the groupmust supply workers who will volunteer service hours to maintaintheir garden. Plots, mulch and soil are provided.

Community Garden Gives to Needy By Cheryl Kuck

Commons eco-gardeners; Bob Abbenzeller, Tom Carroll,Rosalind Baker and Karen Elizabeth are happy to take interestedgroups through the gardens, explain what they will do to helpaccomplish goals, as well as, tour the church or charity propertiesif they wish to utilize their own land to develop organic perma-culture gardens.

Any individuals, churches or charitable organizations who feelthey may benefit from participation, call Elizabeth, (813) 435-

8111 or Rosalind Baker at (352) 804-9246.


Dry CreekDry Creek

Dry Creek just finished it’s 14th episode called ReapWhat You Sow. This episode took six months tocomplete. But boy was it worth the time. The Parrish

Civic Association sponsored a Dry Creek movie night to show“Reap What to Sow “to the community. The cast came out incostume and it was standing room only at the YMCA.

Now Dry Creek is gearing up to shoot another episode called,First Love. As I wrote this script my mind played out events andthings that had happened in my life, the awkward times as ayoung boy being hit with Cupid’s arrow, not knowing whatchanged overnight that made me look at Susie Bond as not justa girl, that had me riding my bicycle in front of her househoping to get a glance at her, not wanting her to know I caredabout her.

I could smell the sent of Jasmine that grew on her fence.Thinking to myself, is this what love smells like and being afraidto talk to her. When I did the words came out wrong and I’d goover and over my words in my mind to see where I went wrong.Being embarrassed to eat in front of her? Boy was I a mess. Tothis day whenever I smell jasmine I go on a bike ride to SusieBond’s house and the butterflies come back.

In writing First Love, my mind went to my parents, a couplethat had gone through so much, family, heartbreak, grandkids,but survived life and who’s love grew stronger with each pass-ing year. Their love reminded me of a wagon wheel. The spokeswere the things they lived through that made the wheel stronger.The fellers (the wood) that make the circle were us three kids.The steel around the wheel was their ring that held everythingtogether. There were bumps and pot holes that they wentthrough but their wheel stayed strong.

Young LoveBy Les McDowellPhotos Courtesy of Linda Constant

I also thought of a love that never was. That life took them downdifferent paths. Their paths meet up years down the road and theirhearts rerun where they started and how life turned out.

Well it's time to end this talk of love. It’s getting kind of mushyaround here. I might lose my guy card. But love has always beenaround and in 1882 in Dry Creek it is still being remembered.

Everybody knows where Dry Creek is...it’s inside each and everyone of us.

Watch Dry Creek on BlueHighwaysTV, Channel 246on Verizon Sat nites at 7:30.Go to DDrryyCCrreeeekkTTVV..CCoommfor more information.

Check us out at ddrryyccrreeeekkttvv..ccoomm




Eating healthy, shopping local, sustainability, green practices andconvenience don’t always go hand in hand. In our fast pacedsociety, we don’t have time or it’s often difficult to find a “one-

stop shop” that provides healthy options. Those of us who workMonday through Friday dread the thought of having to stop at thegrocery store to buy something healthy for dinner, so instead we pullup to the drive-thru window and find something that is quick, butthat is far from healthy!

Tiffany Ferrecchia of Tampa, realized this dilemma and wanted tooffer the 9-5 crowds a healthy alternative. Ferrecchia is the presidentof the non-profit, Urban Coalition of Tampa Bay and she’s the ownerof Tampa Bay Markets, which hosts six open- air fresh markets in theTampa area. This past January, Ferrecchia started The TwilightMarket at Ybor City.

“Most of my markets are held on the weekends or once a month, sothere really hasn’t been a night market for people who work duringthe day,” Ferrecchia said. “In Ybor, there really aren’t that manypeople around during the day because they are working, so at nightthey are getting ready to come and that’s the crowd we are targetingwith this market.”

It’s Ybor’s first evening market and it’s held every Tuesday night from5 p.m. - 10 p.m. at The Roosevelt 2.0, which is community space thatfocuses on social change and urban sustainability. “The Roosevelt 2.0is really focused on sustainability, green practices and they have a lotof goals for the future,” Ferrecchia said. “They really need to supportthe rent for the building in order to survive, so this market not onlywill contribute to that, but also to the Urban Coalition of TampaBay.” Of the market’s profit, 60 percent goes to The Roosevelt 2.0while the other 40 percent will go to the Urban Coalition of TampaBay to fund a community kitchen. “I am trying to build a communi-ty kitchen that will allow vendors to come in and prepare food andsell it to the public,” Ferrecchia said.

The market offers local producers and vendors in a friendlyindoor/outdoor setting that promotes the economic well being oflocal food, health and wellness. It also has live music, fresh bakedgoods, soaps, hand-made crafts and ready-to-eat dinners. “The thingabout this market is that it’s small and it allows me to focus on organ-ics, green and natural,” Ferrecchia said. “The other markets that Ioperate have that category, but they also have five other categories,so with this one, I can hone in on what is important to what I reallywant to do in this location.”

Christa Leonard is one of the vendors at The Twilight Market. Shealso runs an organic market in St. Petersburg called EDGE DistrictFarmers Market. EDGE is an acronym for Entertainment, Dining,Galleries, Etc. Leonard wanted to be a part of The Twilight Marketbecause she feels that Ferrecchia is on the same mission she is, whichis to promote a healthy and sustainable lifestyle, while finding moreways to improve the local economy and environment.

“We are trying to alleviate our carbon footprint as well as supportour local community,” Leonard said. “We really like to support localfarmers who work hard on a daily basis.”

All of the vendors at Leonard’s market live within a 50 mile radiusof the market and all of the produce comes from small farms,community gardens and backyard growers. Both Ferrecchia andLeonard hope that The Twilight Market will attract people, not onlyfrom the Ybor area, but from Tampa as they make their commutehome from work. “My hope is that we will get a lot of people on aTuesday night that want to eat good food, listen to some good musicand pick up some organic produce or fresh bread,” Ferrecchia said.

For more information on The Twilight Market or any of the othermarkets Ferrecchia operates, or if you would like to become avendor at one of her markets, you can visit her website at

wwwwww..ttaammppaabbaayymmaarrkkeettss..ccoomm or call 813-248-1904. The Roosevelt 2.0 is located at 1812 N. 15th Street in

Ybor City, Fl.

SHOPPING LOCAL AND EATING HEALTHY

Under the StarsBy Libby Hopkins





Massey Ferguson is pleased tointroduce the MF4600 Series lineof capable utility tractors. Thenew series features three models,MF4608, MF4609 and MF4610,with power ratings ranging from75 to 95 engine horsepower.Powering these tractors is an allnew 3 cylinder engine fromAGCO power that offers impres-sive fuel econoy, power andtorque.

Designed as a direct replacementfor the MF2600HD tractors, thenew MF4600 tractors are anideal fit for loader work, hayproduction and general on thefarm use. Each model is availablein an open station or cab config-uration. Initially, all models willbe 4WD only, but a 2WD frontaxle will become available inlater production. Built for com-fort, versatility and efficiency onthe farm, all MF4600 modelswill offer a power shuttle trans-mission as standard equipmentto compete in the market place.

Mahindra’sNewmFORCE Series TractorsIntroducing a new standard of high horsepowertractors, heavy-duty and powerful, 100 engine hp,88 pto hp, full size utility tractor

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• Heavy-duty loader with 4,129 lbs lift capacity

• Powerful 3-point hitch with 6,856 lbs liftcapacity – standard

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Kubota M9960 has replaced the popular and praised M9540 model, tomeet the more stringent environmental protection regulations and toanswer the opinions of users of previous models. This tractor featuresnumerous improvements suggested by customers, including improvedgearshift precision and overdrive for transport purposes.

EENNGGIINNEEThe 101,4 HP engine of the M9960 features Kubota’s Tier IIIB complianttechnology. The 4 cylinder, 16-valve, turbocharged powerplant with inter-cooler is equipped with a catalytic converter and DPF, so no urea-basedadditives are required to meet the stringent environmental norms.

SSHHUUTTTTLLEEHydraulic Shuttle is fitted as standard, so the direction of movement can bechanged without touching the clutch. This features is most useful whenoperating the font loader, as forward-backward sequences may be complet-ed quicker.

FFRROONNTT AAXXLLEEEngine power is transferred to front wheels via a bevel gear shaft in oil bathand installed in a dust-tight casing. This results in an extremely low turningradius: 3,8 m. without braking.The front axle is equipped with a limited slip differential (LSD). 4WD canbe engaged in motion.

TTRRAANNSSMMIISSSSIIOONNThe M9960 is fitted with a mechanical 6-speed gearbox and a reductionbox that offers 3 speeds as standard. In each of the 6 main speeds, the oper-ator can select 1 additional power shift without engaging the clutch. Intotal, the operator can choose from 36 speeds in each direction.

PPTTOOStandard features include two speeds of the PTO: 540 and 540E. In the540E mode, the revolutions of 540 rpm are achieved at lower engine rpm.As an option, the PTO can be replaced with the 540/1000 rpm version.

CCAABBThe M8560 is another model from Kubota where particular attention wasdevoted to operator’s comfort. Great visibility in all directions, includingupward view on the front loader plus standard air conditioning with airoutlets in the dashboard cater for easy and pleasant operation of themachine.

HHYYDDRRAAUULLIICCSS AANNDD RREEAARR HHIITTCCHHHydraulic pump output of 64,0 L/min (only for the rear hitch and hydraulicoutlets), 2 pairs of hydraulic outlets and lifting capacity of 4100 kg.

John Deere Expands 6 SeriesTractor Lineup with 12 New,Updated ModelsJohn Deere has expanded its 6 Series Tractor family with the introduction of 12 new models in the 105 to 170 enginehorsepower range for 2013. These new models are designed to provide the power, comfort, and performance that meet theneeds of a wide range of crop and livestock producers andgovernmental agencies.

The all-new John Deere 6M Series Tractors include six models(6105M, 6115M, 6125M, 6140M, 6150M and 6170M) from105 to 170 engine horsepower and replace the standard 6030and 7030 Series Tractors. According to Rachel Wayson, JohnDeere Tractor Works, the 6M Series Tractors are ideal for live-stock customers looking for a mid-spec tractor with higherhorsepower options.

“The new 6M tractors have additional transmission options,increased hitch and hydraulic capacities, and provide IT4emission compliant engines,” Wayson says. “The new 6170Mmodel, for example, offers customers a higher horsepowertractor at a mid-range specification level.”

In addition, John Deere has updated its economical 6D SeriesTractor lineup that was introduced in 2008. The new 6DSeries include 4 models ranging from 105 to 140 engine horsepower (6105D, 6115D, 6130D, and 6140D).

“The new 6D models provide all the power, performance andcomfort customers demand to complete a broad range of jobson the farm and ranch,” Wayson adds. “Enhanced featuresover the previous 6D models include easy-to-use right-handcab controls, an optional instructional seat, easy-to-accessservice.

“The small ag tractors in the 6 Series family provide the versa-tility required by customers needing a tractor to handle diverseapplications,” Wayson adds. “They provide the performance,ease of operation and optional features that customers candepend on for years of reliable service in the field.”

2013 In The Field Tractors in Review

www.groveequipment.biz

FIELDS EQUIPMENT COMPANY17215 HIGHWAY 27 NORTHMINNEOLA, FL 34715-9273(352) 394-7181

FIELDS EQUIPMENT COMPANY3203 HAVENDALE BLVDWINTER HAVEN, FL 33881(863) 967-0602

FIELDS EQUIPMENT COMPANY3440 US HIGHWAY 17 SOUTHZOLFO SPRINGS, FL 33890-0837(863) 735-1122


There’s an old familiar adage about not “being able to see theforest because of the trees” and that may apply to the manybenefits of belonging to Farm Bureau.

“Members sometimes don’t take the time to find out what bene-fits they have and simply limit their knowledge to the primaryreason they joined,” said Hillsborough County Farm BureauBoard Member and Membership Chair Ray Wood. “That istruly unfortunate since membership means more – much more –than just that reason a family decided to join Farm Bureau.”

A case in point is the current “GM Private Offer.” “GM isoffering Farm Bureau members a $500 incentive for any newChevrolet, GMC or Buick vehicle,” said Wood. There are onlytwo considerations associated with the offer: the incentive doesnot apply to the Chevrolet Volt model and the Farm Bureaumember must be in good standing and a member for at least60 days prior to the date of delivery of the vehicle selected.“The special offer applies to however many vehicles a qualifiedmember decides to buy – from one to a fleet,” said Wood.

Also, this offer is available at any Chevrolet, GMC or Buickdealership. More information is available by contacting theHillsborough County Farm Bureau at 813/685-9121 or byvisiting the Florida Farm Bureau website:wwwwww..fflloorriiddaaffaarrmmbbuurreeaauu..oorrgg. Once on the site, check the“Member Benefits” area.

Although offered at any Chevrolet, GMC or Buick dealership,Rivard Buick GMC in Brandon has had a number of transac-tions, both individual and multiple vehicles, in which the FarmMember buyer has enjoyed the GM Private Offer. Located at9740 Adamo Drive west of I-75 in Brandon, the dealership isfamily-owned and has been serving the area since 1991.

“The Farm Bureau GM Private Offer is a nice incentive formembers,” said Rivard General Sales Manager Eric Judd. “Wetake pride in our many repeat customers and the fact that we areone of the largest GMC truck dealerships in the area.

“As a matter of course, we work closely with each of our cus-tomers to determine what types of incentives are available tothem, including the Farm Bureau offer,” he said. “Looking outfor each of our customer’s best interests, including all applicableincentives and special offers, reflects the way we have alwaysdone business. We have found that this type of approach leadsto long term relationships that are beneficial to our customersand to our dealership.”

Judd encourages anyone interested in a GMC, Buick or a pre-owned vehicle to visit the dealership. “We also welcome visits toour website – www.jamesrivard.com. There’s a good bit of infor-mation on our new and used vehicle inventory, as well as specialoffers,” he said.

Farm Bureau members seeking to use the GM Private Offer canaccess the required verification information that is available atwww.floridafarmburea.org. Once at the site, visit “MemberBenefits” and follow the instructions for membership verifica-tion. “It is a very easy process,” said Wood.

“Farm Bureau membership is like the gift that keeps on giving,”said Wood. “Competitive pricing for insurance products and ahost of benefits like the GM Private Offer and many others. I encourage members and those thinking about joining FarmBureau to visit our county office or the state website to learnabout the many ways members and their families stand to gainfrom our ever-growing selection of benefits.”

Next month, IN THE FIELD will take a look at another FarmBureau member benefit, the discounts available throughGrainger, including free shipping on any online offers. •

Farm Bureau MembershipMORE THAN YOUR MAY REALIZE!A SPECIAL GM PRIVATE OFFERBy Jim Frankowiak



Wintertime in Florida means a boun-tiful supply of juicy, delicious cit-rus fruits in their peak season.

Florida is the second largest citrus producerin the world, behind Brazil. In 2005-06,Florida accounted for 68% of the U.S. citrusproduction, California for 28%, and Texasand Arizona for 4%. Right now, farmers’markets and grocery stands are overflowingwith oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, andkumquats. From the four pound pomelo tothe grape-sized kumquat, fresh Florida citrusis bursting with vitamins and minerals.Florida kumquats are harvested betweenNovember and March, so now is a greattime to try them.

Kumquats resemble miniature oranges, andare roughly the size of an olive. Their name isderived from the Cantonese word for “gold-en orange.” The most popular types ofkumquats are the Maruni, Nagami, and theMeiwa. The entire kumquat, including thepeel, is edible. In fact, the thin peel is usuallysweet and offsets the tartness of the flesh.This tiny fruit is also frequently used as anedible decoration. While kumquats are deli-cious eaten out of hand, they can also beenjoyed in salads, entrees, and desserts, ormade into jam.

NUTRITIONAL PROFILELike oranges, Florida kumquats are verynutritious and high in vitamin C and potassi-um and low in calories. A serving of aboutfive kumquats (100 g) contains 71 calories, 2g protein, 1 g fat, 16 g carbohydrate, and 6.5g of dietary fiber. It also provides 73% of theDaily Recommended Value (%DV) for vita-min C, 26% for dietary fiber, 7% for man-ganese, 6% for vitamin A and calcium, and

5% for potassium, magnesium, riboflavin,iron, and copper. Kumquats also contain othernutrients including vitamin B6, folate, thi-amin, omega 3 fatty acids, and phosphorus.

VITAMIN CKumquats are a fantastic way to get your vita-min C for the day – just five small fruit meetthree quarters of your daily requirement.Vitamin C is important for a healthy immunesystem, cancer prevention, healthy blood cir-culation and wound healing. This vitamin actsas a potent antioxidant in the body, neutraliz-ing harmful free radicals and preventing itsdamaging effects in cells. By fighting cell andtissue damage, Vitamin C protects against can-cer and other diseases, such as the commoncold. This vitamin also helps the body absorbmore iron, and aids in the development ofstrong bones and teeth.

Current research findings support thatVitamin C’s benefits come from consumptionof whole fruits and vegetables. A high intakeof produce is associated with a reduced risk ofdeath from all causes, including heart disease,stroke, and cancer. Taking supplements doesnot seem to provide the same protective ben-efits as eating the actual kumquat or consum-ing the juice.

FIBERKumquats and other citrus fruits contain asignificant amount of dietary fiber, with one100 gram serving meeting over a quarter ofyour daily fiber requirement. Fiber can helplower cholesterol, which helps to preventatherosclerosis. It also assists with digestionand is well known for preventing and treat-ing constipation. According to the AmericanInstitute for Cancer Research, a diet high infiber may decrease the risk of several types ofcancer including colon, rectum, breast, andpancreas.

Fiber can also help maintain steady bloodsugar levels, as can fructose, the naturallyoccurring type of fruit sugar found inkumquats and other citrus fruits. Kumquatsalso contain pectin, a water-soluble fiber thathelps reduce blood cholesterol levels andaids in satiety.

MANGANESEManganese is not as often talked about asother minerals, such as potassium, but never-theless has multiple essential roles in thebody. It is a part of metalloenzymes and alsoactivates enzymes so that proper metabolismof protein and carbohydrate can occur.Manganese is essential for nutrients such asbiotin, choline, thiamin and vitamin C to beused by the body. Additionally, this mineral

activates enzymes involved in bone forma-tion and thyroid hormone production.

POTASSIUMOne five piece serving of kumquats containsfive percent of the Daily Value for potassi-um, which is needed for proper electrolyteand fluid balance. Potassium can help lowerblood pressure and reduce the risk of strokeand cardiac arrhythmias. It also plays animportant role in muscle contraction andnerve transmission, and people with low lev-els may experience muscle cramping. Havingmany important functions in the body,potassium may also help prevent or slowdown bone loss from high-sodium diets.

HOW TO SELECT AND STORELook for kumquats that are brightly, uni-formly colored, free of wrinkles or discoloredspots. Lightly squeeze to feel firmness andpick those that are firm and bouncy andheavy for its size. Avoid those that are soft ormushy. Kumquats may be stored at roomtemperature for several days or refrigeratedin a plastic bag for up to two weeks.

HOW TO ENJOYKumquats are delicious eaten out of hand---peel, flesh, seeds and all! The peel can also bezested and used to season vegetables andmeat. Use it as an edible garnish for drinks,appetizers, and platters.

Other ways to enjoy kumquats include:• Toss sliced kumquats into a fruit or

veggie salad.• Squeeze the juice into a pan, allow it to

thicken over heat, and use it as a saucefor fish or chicken.

• Add kumquat juice to baked goods oricing for a bright refreshing twist.

• Slip a few slices of kumquat into a pitcherof water for a refreshing low-caloriebeverage.

• Boil kumquat slices with your teabag oradd slices to boiled tea.

• Dice kumquats and used in salsaand chutney.

• Juice kumquat and make into jam.• Alternate chicken and whole kumquats

on a skewer and grill.• Freeze whole kumquats and use as

decorative ice cubes.• Use kumquat juice in cakes and cookies.

Enjoy sweet, juicy Florida kumquats in theirpeak season today and get plenty of vitaminsand minerals in these tiny fruits.

SELECTED REFERENCEShttp://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu/http://www.whfoods.com

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

Florida

Small on Size...Big on Nutrients

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Hello again everybody! A lot as hap-pened since I last talked to you. In

January we crowned our district contestchampions and I traveled with my team tothe country of Argentina to learn aboutinternational agriculture!

In mid-January the Florida FFA state officerteam traveled to Argentina with 64 otherstate officers from 25 states around thecountry. On this trip we experienced manynew things including learning about theagriculture of the country and immersingourselves in the Argentine culture. In theregion of Argentina that we traveled to, the

agriculture could most easi-ly be compared with that ofthe Midwest. The farmershere had a heavy emphasison corn and soybeans alongwith beef and dairy produc-tion. Although they usesimpler techniques and notas much mechanicalemphasis these farmers arestill able to produce at arate comparable to that ofmany top agricultural coun-tries. We learned that thebiggest impediment to agri-culture in Argentina is thefact that the governmentdoes not support the farm-

ers. Whereas our government provides ourfarmers with subsidies in order to helpthem survive, the Argentine farmers insteadpay some of the highest tax rates in thecountry, as well as having to foot the billfor the tariff rates on crops that get export-ed. It should be noted though that oneother substantial difference betweenAmerican and Argentine farmers is thatArgentine farmers are not held back by thesame amount of restrictions and regulationsthat American farmers have to deal with.Along with experiencing the agriculturalside of Argentina our group also got to

experience the city and the rainforestregions of the country. The rainforest areawe traveled to was called Puerto Iguazu.This region is in the Northeast part of thecountry and is part of the border betweenArgentina, Brazil and Paraguay and hometo the Devil's throat falls, one of the 7 newnatural wonders of the world. This trip wasonce in a lifetime and I enjoyed everyminute of it!

The second big event of January was theDistrict Contests held across the state.These contests are some of the most com-petitive each year as they decide whichstudents will get to compete at StateConvention in June. Hillsborough Countywas as well represented always withstudents from the county sweeping theirrespective contests. Good luck to thosewinning students as they move on to state!

We are in one of the busiest times for ourteam as we enter the second half of ouryear. As always if you have any questionscomments or concerns feel free to email meat [email protected] and I willrespond to you as quickly as I can.

David WaldenArea 5 State Vice President

Contests andMore




“It’s fun to pick basil andpeppers from my plants.

We make good foodout of it!”

~ Gracie, age 5

Up until she grew her first pepper plant in her suburbanback yard, Gracie was like millions of other children inAmerica, she thought all food came from the grocery store.

Thanks to a unique gardening program called Growums®, thisnow 8-year-old green-thumb harvests more than her weight invegetables every growing season and is nurturing a valuable skillthat will last a lifetime.

Cultivated by a passion for helping children lead healthy lifestyles,Growums is the children’s gardening division of PreferredCommerce, Inc., a family-owned company in West Palm Beach,FL, dedicated to showing kids how fun, easy and rewarding it is

to grow their own food. Founded in 2009, Growums combinesreal-life gardening with entertaining online education atwww.Growums.com, all created by a talented team of horticultur-ists, educators and e-commerce professionals. Today the compa-ny’s passion has grown into a remarkable opportunity for parents,grandparents, schools, fairs and national organizations to fightchildhood obesity, promote healthy living, help the environment andbring families closer together – all through the joys of gardening.

And the timing couldn’t be better. As In the Field Magazine SeniorManaging Editor/Associate Publisher Sarah Holt mentioned in theDecember 2012 issue, childhood obesity has taken an alarmingturn in our country. With the American Heart Association report-ing that “about one in three American kids and teens is over-weight or obese, nearly triple the rate in 1963,” encouraginghealthy eating habits is more important than ever.

Of course, as nearly any parent can attest, telling a kid to eat hisvegetables is often easier said than done. But Growums believesthat by providing children with a remarkable growing experience– and helping them be successful every step of the way – kids willdiscover a new relationship with food that will change their livesfor the better.

GrowumsFor Children


So how does Growums do it? It all starts with a Growums GardenKit, which contains everything a child needs to start a real garden– whether it’s in the ground or in containers on a patio or balcony.Each kit comes with a fun theme (kids choose from Pizza, Taco,Ratatouille, Stir-Fry, Salad and Herb), four types of seed, repre-senting a particular theme’s ingredients (the Pizza Garden, forexample, comes with tomato, bell pepper, oregano and basil seed),seed-starting pellets, a watering tray, and colorful plant tags. Itmay sound like your standard garden-starting package, but whatmakes Growums Garden Kits so unique are the special growinginstructions like no other – ones that come to life online when fam-ilies register at wwwwww..GGrroowwuummss..ccoomm.

Once registered, Growums characters representing each vegetablein the garden kits come to life in a series of short, step-by-step ani-mated videos that guide children through every step of the grow-ing process – from starting the seeds and transplanting to water-ing, mulching, checking for pests and harvesting. With a little helpand information from clever characters such as Tomicio the toma-to, Frank Cilantro, Belle Peppa, Ice Berg the lettuce wrapper, ElvisParsley and more, in a matter of weeks, kids will be able to har-vest fresh vegetables and herbs to create nutritious meals with their

parents. This well thought out program makes learning fun, aswell as helps to ensure kids’ success in growing their own healthyvegetables and herbs.

Growums is the only gardening program for kids known to offersuch an interactive platform. The online characters enhance theentire gardening experience with a fun and entertaining approachthat instills an appreciation for the environment and encouragesthe healthy eating habits so important in today’s struggle againstchildhood obesity. Nowhere else can kids grow a real garden withvirtual-world fun.

But the company doesn’t stop with its kits. In addition to its entireline of themed garden products, Growums offers a range of com-munity programs, including school and association fundraisersthat allow organizations to meet their financial goals – all whilepromoting the importance of healthy living and helping the envi-ronment. The company also offers growing contests and sponsor-ship opportunities at state and local fairs, discount purchases foreducation, fun online and iTunes games, free character coloringpages and more. What’s more, a portion of all Growums’ revenueis donated to help feed needy children in America.

Growums believes that healthy bodies start by eating healthy food.What better way to get that message across to kids than by show-ing them that food comes from a seed – and that they have thepower to make it grow! By promoting the benefits of gardeningthrough this fun, engaging program, Growums captures kids’interest, introduces them to healthful foods and a healthy lifestyle,teaches nurturing skills, gives children a sense of pride in theiraccomplishments and helps create a greener world, one healthybody at a time. Gracie’s family has certainly learned that firsthand– hopefully a few million more will follow! •


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As an important part of its overall educational mission to pro-vide information to the public, UF/IFAS Extension offers abroad range of educational programs to help enable individ-

uals and families to increase their financial stability. “While this is ayear round, multi-faceted initiative, we are also pleased to offer taxpreparation help at this important time of year,” said Lisa Leslie,Family and Consumer Services Extension Agent.

Tax preparation guidance is available in a variety of ways. “Weoffer free guided tax preparation help at the Extension office byappointment,” said Leslie. This service is offered at no charge tohouseholds with an Adjusted Gross Income of no more than$57,000. “Guidance in the completion of tax returns is provided byIRS-trained volunteers. We suggest that county residents opting tofile this way should have access to email so they can monitor theprogress of their return.”

Leslie said appointment times are available Tuesday-Thursday fromnoon – 4 p.m., and appointments can be made by calling Extensionat 813/744-5519.

In addition to guided tax services, Extension has a tax preparationwebinar slated for February 28 from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. EST. “Thiswebinar has been scheduled as part of America Saves Week(hhttttpp::// //aammeerriiccaassaavveewweeeekk..oorrgg) with which we are partnering on withTampa Bay Saves (hhttttpp::// // ttaammppaabbaayyssaavveess..oorrgg). This webinar is liveand interactive, permitting participants to pose questions during thesession,” she said, noting web access and a speaker is all that isrequired to participate. “For those seeking free tax preparation serv-ices, they should visit hhttttpp::// //wwwwww..iirrss..ggoovv//uuaacc//FFrreeee--FFiillee::--DDoo--YYoouurr--FFeeddeerraall--TTaaxxeess--ffoorr--FFrreeee or the United Way site:hhttttpp::// //mmyyffrreeeettaaxxeess..ccoomm//ppcchhcchhccee for a guide to various locations inthe county where such services are available.”

Extension financial management programs, which are offeredthroughout the year, include a series of webinars presented byExtension in partnership with the University of Florida and Lake,Okaloosa and Duval County Extension offices. “This is a very com-prehensive series with infield experts,” said Leslie. Participants havethe option to ask questions during these live sessions. Here is infor-mation on upcoming webinars:

FEBRUARY 26: Goal-based Investing. The discussion will focus onhow to use a goal-based investment strategy to achieve financialgoals and will include guidance on effectively developing a financialplan and selecting investment accounts that work for specific goals.Access is via: hhttttpp::// //bbiitt..llyy//UUFFIINNVVeesstt

FEBRUARY 28: Tips for Tax Preparation & Filing. This session willinclude options for free tax filing, tax credits and tax deductionsand how to analyze your return to help with financial decisions.Access: hhttttpp::// // bbiitt..llyy//TTaaxxFFiill

MARCH 21: Building a Strong Credit History. Discussion will center on credit scores and steps consumers can take to build a positive credit history. Access: hhttttpp::// //bbiitt..llyy// SSttrroonnggCCrreedd

Leslie noted that each of these webinars will take place from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. EST.

Additionally, Extension educational outreach, which takes place atits office or locations of convenience to groups of interested resi-dents, covers a broad range of subject matter all designed to fosterfinancial stability.

“Among the topics these sessions discuss are developing a financialplan, managing in tough times, credit scores, senior financial safety,automobile buying, small steps to health and wealth, using creditwisely, debt management, using financial institutions and muchmore,” said Leslie. “For those county residents seeking one-on-oneguidance in these subject areas, we offer the Florida Master MoneyMentor Program, which is a coordinated referral network of certified volunteers that provide financial mentoring,” she said.There is no charge for the services of this program.

“Ultimately, we would like to have interested residents enroll inTampa Bay Saves (hhttttpp::// // ttaammppaabbaayyssaavveess..oorrgg) so they can receivenew information, classes, webinars and other offerings all designedto help them achieve and maintain financial stability,” said Leslie

FLORIDA MASTER MONEY MENTORS SOUGHT

Hillsborough County Extension Service, a cooperativeservice of the Hillsborough County Board of CountyCommissioners and the University of Florida, is recruiting

volunteers to mentor residents of the county about basic personalfinancial management..

“This program is a wonderful way for people to broaden their lifeexperiences and give back to the community,” said Lisa Leslie,Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences. “Volunteers donot have to have previous financial education or a background infinancial services. They must be willing to take approximately 20hours of training in basic financial management and mentoringtechniques,” she said. “They should also be able to volunteer atleast two hours a week and follow established protocols for report-ing, client confidentiality and providing research-based, unbiasedinformation.

Leslie said training takes place at the Extension office. University ofFlorida Extension provides the infrastructure for this programthroughout the state thanks to a gift from Bank of America.

Those interested in becoming a Florida Master Money Mentor areasked to contact Leslie at 813-744-5519, Ext. 54143 or email her atlleesslliieell@@hhiillllssbboorroouugghhccoouunnttyy..oorrgg..

EXTENSION OFFERS BROAD PALLETE OF PERSONAL

FINANCE PROGRAMS, GUIDANCE AND SERVICES

TIMELY TAX HELPNOW AVAILABLE By Jim Frankowiak


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The Florida FFA is serving up a varietyof wild game and seafood at the 10thAnnual Beast Feast & Auction on

Saturday, March 23 to benefit the FloridaFFA Foundation. Along with feasting onvenison, pork, gator, shrimp, turkey, swampcabbage, fried dill pickles, Jambalaya, chick-en fingers, boiled corn, peanuts, homemadeice cream, strawberry shortcake, and manyother foods, guests can enjoy raffles, silentand live auctions, exhibits and entertain-ment. Items to be auctioned include vacationtrips, airboat tours, fishing trips, huntingtrips, park admissions, framed prints, grills,gift baskets, livestock feed, fishing and hunt-ing equipment, gift certificates to local storesand restaurants and a wide variety of otherexciting items. As a special addition to thisyear’s event there will be drawings from theadmission ticket stubs worth $2,500. Theperson drawn for the winning tickets must bepresent to win. Food will be served 11 a.m.to 12:30 p.m.

The Beast Feast and Auction will be held atthe Florida FFA Leadership Training Centerat 5000 Firetower Road, off Highway 542(Hatchineha Road) near Haines City from11:00 to 2:00 p.m. Annually the LTC hosts avariety of meetings, conferences and work-shops for FFA and other organizations.

Many “friends” of FFA and FloridaAgriculture are stepping forward with efforts

to help out the organization that benefitedthem as students. The foundation providesthe resources necessary to recognize the lead-ers that our organization is known for, whilethe FFA Association provides the paths forstudents to succeed. As an avid supporter ofFFA, “we take great pride in being a part ofthis fundraiser,” states Fred Williams,Southern Coast Manager, Purina AnimalNutrition, LLC.

“As a business owner, I am amazed at themany different skills these students gain aspart of their agriscience education classesand their involvement with FFA,” states BillHamm, William E. Hamm & Associates,Florida FFA Foundation President. “I wouldlike to encourage all of you to become asponsor or get involved in some way so theFFA Foundation can continue to provideservices and facilities to support these out-standing young people.”

Anyone wishing to help Florida FFA can doso by becoming an event sponsor, donatingitems for the silent or live auction and bypurchasing or selling tickets.

For tickets or more information about thisevent, contact Gary Bartley at (863) 439-

7332 ext 6321. You may also visit the web-site at wwwwww..fflloorriiddaaffffaaffoouunnddaattiioonn..oorrgg and

click on Special Events/Beast Feast.

Florida FFA To Host

Beast FeastAnd Auction

Specialty MeatsDucks, Capons, Fresh Ham,

Rabbits, Quail, Fresh &Smoked Turkey Wings

and Drumsticks, Beef andPork Kidneys, Hog Heads,

Hog Maws, Pork Skin,Tripe & Honeycomb Tripe,

and Alligator Meat.

• We Accept TECO Payments• Western Union Money Orders

49¢ each

5511


®

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5599


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AVAILABLE

Reed Fischbach, BrokerFischbach Land Company

813.546.1000P.O. Box 2677 • Brandon, FL 33509

Note: While every attempt is made to provide as accurate information on the property offering as possible, FISCHBACH LAND COMPANY, LLCdoes not guarantee the accuracy thereof. Buyer shall rely entirely on their own information and inspection of property and records.

Incredible opportunity to own a turnkey horse farm. Two homes,50 x 100 horse barn, lighted arena, rolling lush land! $800,000

Country living that is centrally locatedand minutes to I-75. Bank owned $179,000

OLD WELCOME 40 ACRE HORSE FARMLITHIA

80 ACRE FARM SWEAT LOOPWIMAUMA

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013 63

Beautiful country lots with Oaks and Hammocks!Road Frontage on Lithia Pinecrest. Road excellent site

for investment! $400,000

LITHIA PINECREST 32 ACRESLITHIA

Ideal property for Farm or Ranch! Frontage and accessalong US Hwy 17. 12 inch, 10 inch and two 6 inch wells

already in place! $1,600,000

US HWY 17 160 ACRESARCADIA

Perfect Homesite. Well and septic are on site andproperty is already fenced and cross fenced.

Completely high and dry. $150,000

11.72 ACRES FARMLAND/HOMESITELITHIA

Turn-key! Property is fenced and crossed with4 inch well. $110,000

19 ACRES BONITA DRIVEWIMAUMA

IDEAL PASTURELAND ANDEXCELLENT FOR HOMESITE!


Once again the risk associated withbeing a strawberry grower surfacesas two viruses have stunted straw-

berry plants at several strawberry growers inthe Plant City area. However, officials reportthe incidents have involved only a few grow-ers and the overall impact on strawberry vol-umes for this season is expected to be limitedas the problem likely will not spread to otherfields and will not continue into next season.

That was the essence of information provid-ed to strawberry growers at a special meetingheld in mid-January at the FloridaStrawberry Growers Association (FSGA)offices in Dover. The meeting was organizedby Dr. Natalia Peres, Associate Professor,Plant Pathology, University of Florida GulfCoast Research and Education Center andExtension Agent Alicia Whidden. Both hadbeen in the forefront of this new grower chal-lenge since it was first reported early duringthe current season.

In addition to hosting the event, FSGA spon-sored the participation of Dr. Bob Martin ofthe U.S. Department of Agriculture –Agriculture Research Service based atCorvallis, Oregon. Dr. Martin is recognizedas a world expert on virus diseases of smallfruits and the analytical services of his labo-ratory, as well as those of a California-basedindependent testing laboratory, pinpointedthe viruses that surfaced locally among selectstrawberry fields this season.

“Testing of the type needed in this instance isnot available in Florida,” said Dr. Peres.“Consequently, samples were sent toCalifornia and Oregon for analysis.”Symptoms associated with the virus, accord-ing to Dr. Martin, “included stunted growth,very limited productivity and small fruit.”

“Though an exceptional situation, especiallyfor Florida, there was a similar situation inCalifornia that took place about 10 yearsago,” said Dr. Martin. “We had the benefitof lab tests developed at that time to guideour analysis.” He said the viruses, both of

which are transmitted by aphids, are thestrawberry mild yellow edge virus and straw-berry mottle virus. “The incidences of virus-es such as these are usually more of a prob-lem on the west coast where aphid popula-tions are high, while this has not been aproblem on the east coast.”

Dr. Martin and his colleagues were also ableto determine the source of the viruses was inplants purchased from two nurseries in the“Great Village” area of Nova Scotia. “Theseviruses should not be a problem next yearsince they can only be transmitted by aphids,the viruses only infect strawberry and theprimary aphid vector only feeds on aphidsand that is not possible during the strawber-ry free period in Florida.”

Though plants purchased from nurseries invarious locations in the U.S. and Canada arecertified to be virus free, “that final inspec-tion is limited to a visual inspection asopposed to a laboratory analysis,” said Dr.Martin. “This incident has prompted allstakeholders to come together to addresswhat has taken place and highlights an effortto adopt the same type of testing and qualityassurance in the U.S. and Canada so weachieve uniformity in rules and certifica-tions,” he said. “There is also a concernabout fruit production taking place close tonurseries and the need to for better aphidcontrol. There is also the need to carefullymonitor aphid movement in the GreatVillage area and manage accordingly.” Healso said steps must be taken to isolate fruitfrom nursery production.

“Although the negative impact for growersthat have these plants is significant, Floridastrawberry growers are fortunate that the inci-dence of these viruses has been small and theprospect of impacting plants next season isvirtually impossible. Perhaps the prospect ofsuch incidents taking place in the future willbe further reduced as a result of current dis-cussions regarding uniform and mandatoryvirus testing as opposed to visual inspection.”

Viruses HitSeveral Plant CityArea StrawberryGrowersSources, Corrective StepsDetermined, Minor Impact

by Jim Frankowiak


6666


Plant City native Kelsey Fryis the queen of the 2013Florida Strawberry Festival,

but there’s a great deal more tothis 17-year-old senior at PlantCity High School than her goodlooks and charming people skills.

“This was my second time in the competi-tion,” said Fry. “My parents initially said Icould try one time and I did last year, fin-ishing among the top 10.” She had a greattime, but did not do as well as she couldduring the impromptu question, “so wethought about that a good deal and decid-ed to let Kelsey try again, if she wanted,”said her mother, Kendra Harrell. “Thatwas a rare move for Glenn and I, since

once we make a decision we typically stickto it.” Kelsey has two younger sisters,Emily and Taylor, who are extremelyproud of Kelsey and her crown!

“I really enjoyed my first competition. Thepreparation and competition was a lot offun,” said Kelsey. It should be noted prepa-ration included shopping and getting herhair done, as well as pageant coaching.

“I’m glad Kendra and I decided to offerKelsey the chance for a second time in thecompetition,” said her dad, Glenn. “Iknew that if she made it into the court,there were experiences before her that fewyoung women get to enjoy. Activities suchas trips and appearances on behalf of thefestival to different events and cities here inFlorida, as well as outside of the state.”

“Being picked to be the queen was a treatfor me,” said Kelsey. “I feel blessed andlook forward to the coming year andspending time with my court. They are myfriends, and I know we will have a greattime.” Her court includes First MaidEricka Lott, Jamee Townsend, MaddyKeene and Madison Astin. “Typically thequeen and her court ask for nothing, butaccept the majority of invitations,” notedKelsey. Invitations of the recent past haveincluded trips to New York City andTallahassee and special events such asthrowing the first pitch to open the PlantCity Little League season.

When asked why she felt the judges pickedher, Kelsey said, “I think they saw some-thing different in me and they liked myresponses to their questions during theinterview. When I look back on the pag-

A Pretty Face, Pleasing Personality and So Much MoreBy Jim Frankowiak Photos by Stephanie Humphrey

Strawberry Festival Queen – Kelsey Fry

eant last year, I realize that I have matured a great deal and was able to exudethe level of confidence the judges were looking for.” But there’s quite a bitmore.

From a community service perspective, Kelsey has done a variety of things. “Ihave developed a program that teaches senior citizens how to navigate theworld of Facebook. It is a great way to reach out to the elderly in my commu-nity and help them connect with their family and friends. I am also involvedin my church (First Baptist Church of Plant City), where I am a member of theCORE leadership group. Being active in my church’s youth group is veryimportant to me because it’s crucial to help other teens that are lost.

Kelsey is also the founding president of Plant City High School’s RonaldMcDonald House Club. It’s a service club that works with the RonaldMcDonald Hospital in Tampa. Kelsey said, “We make cards, decorations,dinners and desserts for the families who are residing there while their childis in the hospital. It’s very rewarding for all of us. The families staying at thehome are always very grateful.”

You would be hard-pressed to find a 17-year-old female who has no make-up, but that is the case with Kelsey. She is extremely low maintenance!Among her extracurricular activities is a multi-year commitment to competi-tive swimming, which requires workouts six days a week during which sheswims from 4-7 miles each day she trains. “The joke among my family andfriends is that my perfume is primarily chlorine.” She is captain of the PlantCity High School Varsity Swim Team and ranked in the top 5 percent of herclass with a 5.48 grade point average.

Kelsey plans to continue her competitive swimming activities as part of theinaugural swim team at the University of West Florida in Pensacola.Scholastically, she plans to pursue an honors curriculum, majoring in market-ing. “I would love to return to Plant City after college working in agri-mar-keting,” she said. And that’s not unusual for someone who has belonged toFFA and 4-H, competing and winning in public speaking competitions at thelocal level and beyond. She has also competed and won in the HillsboroughCounty Farm Bureau speech competition, proceeding on to regional and statelevels.

In addition to public speaking competitions, Kelsey has participated in horti-culture events at the Strawberry Festival, winning both Reserve GrandChampion and Award of Distinction honors the last two years. Kelsey andher family also operate a horticulture business, Hi-TEK Liners, throughwhich they propagate various ornamental plants and sell to nurseries. TEKstands for the Harrell sisters Taylor, Emily and Kelsey. Their father, Glenn,was instrumental in the formation of the company, as he is ProductionManager for Harrell’s Nursery and an environmental horticulture alumnus ofthe University of Florida.

“We began the family business two years ago with 30,000 liners and doubledthat figure this year,” he said. “Both Kendra and I firmly believe hard workis a good thing for our family, and it helps to generate spending money forour daughters because they are paid employees of the company.” Hi-TEK hasoperations at Lithia Pinecrest and Plant City.

As Kelsey was looking at different collegiate options, she learned that achiev-ing the Bright Futures Academic Scholar Level could prove beneficial from ascholarship standpoint. “Though she didn’t have to, Kelsey worked hard onthat and took her college entrance exams several times to attain that level,”said her dad.

Parents Kendra and Glenn are still trying to absorb Kelsey’s selection asqueen of the 78th Florida Strawberry Festival. “It’s surreal,” said Kendra. “Icould not be more proud. Kelsey has never been any trouble. She loves Jesusand is not ashamed to proclaim that fact. I know, and I have been told by oth-ers, that Kelsey will never compromise her integrity for anyone.


“Glenn and I were so pleased the way she handled herfirst time in the Strawberry Festival competition. Whileothers cried, Kelsey simply moved forward,” saidKendra.

“In some respects Kelsey and I are more than father anddaughter, we are also like my golf buddies, kidding oneanother and having a good time. She can take it and giveit back. What you see is what you get with Kelsey and Iam very proud of her for what she has achieved and theexample she has been, and continues to be, to her sisters.She always plays by the rules,” said Glenn.

Kelsey gives a great deal of credit to her parents for herachievements and the way she conducts herself. “My dadhas always been there for me, working hard for our fam-ily and encouraging me to be a good person all of thetime.”

When not at school, competing, practicing or workingthe family business, the Harrell family likes to fish, go toGator games and play board games. Yes, that’s right, thecurrent Florida Strawberry Festival Queen likes to gofishing. As noted at the outset, there’s so much more toher than her good looks and pleasing personality. She’sa wonderful representative of Plant City and the area’sagricultural industry.

“I can’t wait to return to Plant City after college. I loveliving here,” she said. •

70 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013


72 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013 WWW. INTHEF I E LDMAGAZ INE .COM

The weather is getting cooler and the beaches willbecome less crowded soon, at least for a short time. Ifyour anything like me, you probably have a collectionof seashells, sand dollars, sea glass, and other smalltreasures that have been collected at the beach overthe summer. This simple project can help thin thecollection and perhaps result in a tasteful work of artthat is appropriate for any Florida wall.

MMaatteerriiaallss::Stretched CanvasesInexpensive Paint BrushAdhesive (Modge Podge, Elmers, etc.)Sea Shells (or other light weight objects)Acrylic Paint (optional)Sand (natural or colored)Texturing Tools (Paper Towels, sponges, fabric)Plastic container (to hold sand)Prepare your work area with plenty of newspaper (or work outside)

GGLLUUEE SSEEAA SSHHEELLLLSS OORR OOTTHHEERR OOBBJJEECCTTSS TTOOSSTTRREETTCCHHEEDD CCAANNVVAASSEESS IINN AA PPLLEEAASSIINNGG CCOOMMPPOOSSIITTIIOONN(not too crowded).Using an inexpensive paint brush, apply a generouscoat of Modge Podge or glue to the area of the canvas where you will glue the sea shells, the glue will dry clear and later will be covered with sand soyou do not have to be really neat about this. Let theobject dry long enough for the glue to set so theobjects do not fall off the canvases.

PPAAIINNTT TTHHEE RREEMMAAIINNIINNGG CCAANNVVAASSEESSAs an option, you can paint the remaining canvaswith acrylic paint, remember, sand will be placed ontop of this later. The idea here is to create color thatwill show through parts of the sand and look more likewater. Let the acrylic paint dry to the touch before thenext step. Alternatively, you could add acrylic paint to

Naturally Amazing Activities

Sand ArtBy Sean Green

the Modge Podge or glue and move on to the next stepwith colored glue.

GGLLUUEE SSAANNDD TTOO TTHHEE CCAANNVVAASSEESSPaint the remainder of the canvas with a generous coat of Modge Podge or glue, no need to be precise; it actually looks great when glue and sand get on theedges of the seashells. While the glue is still wet, coat the canvas with dry sand. Allow the glue to dryand shake the extra sand off the canvas, use the newspaper to funnel the sand back into a container to be used again.

TTEEXXTTUURRIINNGG TTHHEE SSAANNDDYou can build up random mounds in the sand by dipping a crumpled paper towel into the glue and dabbing the canvases generously but with a light touch,this will create globs of glue that will look like naturalmounds when covered with sand.

Play around with the possibilities, if you choose to usecolored sand, geometric shapes can be painted ontothe canvas and sprinkled with colored sand for a NativeAmerican sand painting theme. We would love to seepictures of your finished project!




DARYLE WAYNE HALL, 50 of Plant City diedJanuary 30, 2013.Born May 14, 1962 in Elkhart,Indiana, he was the son of the late Niles Hall andYvonne Woodworth Hall. He served in the U.S.Army from 1982 until 1984. Surviving are daughter,Melanie Ann Brock; brothers, Jeff (Trish) andRandy (Shayne) Hall; 2 grandchildren, ZacharyBrock and Ethan Samson.LLOYD ALOYSIUS JARBOE, 84 of Plant City andLupton, Michigan died January 29, 2013, at hishome in Plant City. Born May 22, 1928 in Flint,Michigan, he was the son of the late CharlesJarboe and the late Winifred Brockriede Jarboe.He was the husband of Helen Frey Jarboe.MARIA ALAO HYDE, 65 of Lakeland died January27, 2013. Born March 12, 1947 in Manila,Philippines, she was the daughter of the late DaleWilliams and the late Anita Alao Williams. She wasthe wife of the late John Hyde.Surviving are sons,John Hyde and James Hyde; daughters, JenniferBochis, Justine Hyde and Jacqueline Hyde; sisters,Patricia Williams, Barbara Flood, Dellia Pierce andAnn Alao; and 2 grandchildren.

MILLARD FRANKLIN BRUNTY, 85 died on Friday,January 25, 2013 Born Monday, May 21, 1927, hewas the son of the late Kennie Brunty and the lateCatherine Varney Brunty. He was the husband ofthe late Patsy Brunty.

ATHELEE "LEE" TERRELL went home to be withThe Lord January 25, 2013. Born September 3,1940 in Pocahontas, Arkansas. Preceded in deathby his parents, A.C. and Marie Terrell and infantdaughter Tami. Survived by his loving wife Carol(married 51 years).

BILLY RAY GRACE, 82 of Plant City and Lakelanddied January 25, 2013. Born December 21, 1930 tothe late Ulysses Vernon Grace Sr. and Lassie LouDuffer Grace. He was the beloved husband ofJoanne Salter Grace for 62 years.

GENEVIVE WYLIE, 74 of Plant City, Florida diedon Friday, January 25, 2013. Born Wednesday,January 26, 1938 in Zenia, Ohio. She is survivedby a friend Diane Knight and many other friends.

JESSICA LYNN WARREN, 28 of Seffner diedJanuary 23, 2013, at her home. Born March 26,1984 in Tampa, Florida, she was the daughter ofJames Warren and Donna James.

WILLIS FRANK EKHOFF, 94 of Plant City diedJanuary 23, 2013, in Brandon. Born December 1,1918 in Nokomis, Illinois, he was the son of the lateRichard Ekhoff and Emma Bald Ekhoff. He was thehusband of Hazel Vaudine Ekhoff and shesurvives.NINA L. HIGLEY, 86 formerly of Plant City diedJanuary 22, 2013 in Maine. Born February 24,1926 in Manassas, Georgia, she was the daughterof the late Walter Jones and the late GennieCalloway. She was the wife of the lateGraham Higley.


INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013 77WW WW WW .. II NN TTHH EE FFII EE LL DD MM AA GG AA ZZ II NN EE .. CC OO MM

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IINNTTRROODDUUCCTTIIOONNThe U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has instituted itsAnimal Disease Traceability Program (ADTP) to improve itsability to trace livestock, including horses, in the event of a diseaseoutbreak. The new system applies to all livestock moving inter-state.

Under the new federal regulations, horses moving interstate mustbe identified and accompanied by an Interstate Certificate ofVeterinary Inspection (ICVI). The new system is built on methodsof identification and movement documentation that are alreadyemployed in the horse industry, e.g., written descriptions, digitalphotographs, brands, tattoos, electronic identification methods,and interstate certificates of veterinary inspection. The person orentity responsible for moving the horse interstate must ensure thatit has an ICVI or other document required by the new rule.

The ADTP will be administered by the states with federal support.The new rules also apply to movements to and from a Tribal area.In those cases, the Tribal authorities are involved in the system.

BBAACCKKGGRROOUUNNDDThe horse industry has been dramatically affected by serious dis-ease outbreaks in the last ten years, which have halted or restrict-ed the movement of horses and the commerce surrounding thehorses. The new program is intended to help the Department,state authorities and the horse industry better deal with such dis-ease outbreaks and to minimize disease effects on horses and eco-nomic effects on owners and the industry.

This new rule is based on the previous National AnimalIdentification System (NAIS), which was the original voluntarysystem proposed by USDA to deal with disease outbreaks andtraceability. Since the prior rule was voluntary and generated sig-nificant concerns over complexity, confidentiality, liability, costand privacy, it was not supported and was rethought. USDAreconsidered its approach and decided that rather than attemptingto identify every animal, every premise, and every movement toachieve traceability within 48 hours of a disease outbreak, itwould develop a more limited and simpler system. The ADTP justadopted is the result. The new system does not require the regis-tration of premises housing livestock or the specific reporting ofindividual movements of horses.

EEFFFFEECCTTIIVVEE DDAATTEEThe new rules will be effective March 11, 2013. We expect thatthere will be a transition period during which USDA has suggest-ed it will not enforce the new rule. This is to give livestock own-ers time to understand the rules and make any changes necessaryto comply. We don’t know how long that period might be.

SSPPEECCIIFFIICC RREEQQUUIIRREEMMEENNTTSS

FFOORR HHOORRSSEE OOWWNNEERRSSUnder the new regulations, horses moving interstate must be (1)identified prior to movement and (2) accompanied by anInterstate Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (ICVI) or otherstate-approved document.

All states now require an ICVI to accompany any horse enteringtheir state. This should make for a smooth transition to the newtraceability rule since most horse owners moving their horsesinterstate for breeding, racing, showing, recreation, etc. shouldalready be in compliance with the provisions in the new rule.

IIDDEENNTTIIFFIICCAATTIIOONN OOFF HHOORRSSEESSHorses that are required to be officially identified under the newrules may be identified by one of the following methods:• A description sufficient to identify the individual horse including, but not limited to, name, age, breed, color, gender, distinctive markings, and unique and permanent forms of identification, such as brands, tattoos, scars, cowlicks, blemishes, or biometric measurements). In the event that the identity of the horse is in question at the receiving destination, the state animal health official in the state of destination or APHIS representative may determine if the description provided is sufficient

• Electronic identification (Animal Identification Number) that complies with ISO 11784/11785

• Non-ISO electronic identification injected into the horse on or before March 11, 2014

• Digital photographs sufficient to identify the individual horse• A USDA backtag for horses being transported to slaughter as required by the Commercial Transport of Horses to Slaughter regulations.

Animal Identification Numbers and microchips are an option, butnot a requirement for horses.

USDA Institutes NewAnimal DiseaseTraceability Program,Applies to

All LivestockMoving InterstateIncluding Horses


IICCVVII RREEQQUUIIRREEMMEENNTTSSUnder the new rules, horses moved interstate must be accompa-nied by an ICVI or other document acceptable to the statesinvolved. The person or entity responsible for moving the horseinterstate must ensure it has an ICVI or other document.

The APHIS representative, state representative or accredited vet-erinarian issuing the ICVI or other document must forward a copyto the state health official in the state of origin within seven daysof issuing the document. The state representative in the state oforigin must forward a copy to the state representative in the stateof destination within seven days of receiving it. In the event of adisease outbreak, these documents will be used to trace horses thatare or have been at the site of the outbreak and horses that havecome into contact with them.

The new regulations give states the discretion to approve othermethods of movement documentation, which may include an EIAtest chart, when agreed upon by the animal health officials in thestates involved in the interstate movement.

While not specifically referenced, movement documents could alsoinclude an event passport. USDA has maintained options in thefinal rule to support the use of other movement documentation,for example an owner-shipper statement or brand certificate, ifagreed to by the state animal health officials involved.

RREETTEENNTTIIOONN OOFF RREECCOORRDDSSCurrently, states bear the responsibility for the collection, mainte-nance, and retrieval of data on interstate livestock movements.These responsibilities will be maintained under the new rules. Theanimal health official or accredited veterinarian issuing or receiv-ing an ICVI or other document must keep a copy for five years toensure horses can be identified and traced if a disease manifestsitself at or after an event.

EEXXCCLLUUSSIIOONNSSThere are exclusions to the new requirements for the followinghorses:•Horses used as a mode of transportation (horseback, horse and buggy) for travel to another location that return directly to the original location.

•Horses moved from a farm or stable for veterinary treatment that are returned to the same location without change in ownership.

•Horses moved directly from a location in one state through another state to a second location in the original state.

•Horses moved between shipping and receiving states with another form of identification or documentation other than an ICVI, e.g., a horse infectious anemia test chart, as agreed to by the shipping and receiving states or tribes involved in the movement.

You can download a PDF of the final rule athhttttpp::// //wwwwww..ggppoo..ggoovv// ffddssyyss//ppkkgg//FFRR--22001133--0011--0099//ppddff//22001122--

3311111144..ppddff NOTE: All horse owners or anyone moving horses interstate orinvolved in that process should review the new requirements to

ensure they are complying with them.If you have any questions, please call the

American Horse Council.

William Eshenbaugh,ALC,CCIM(813) 287-8787 x 1 orcell (727) 430-0306

79.39± Acres at 7307 Knights Griffin Road, Plant City — Reduced FurtherThe site is fenced and is currently being used for grazing. The property is located in east Hillsbor-ough County. It is north of Interstate 4 and east of U.S. 301. Knights Griffin Road is also known asCR582 and can be accessed via Macintosh Road from I-4. Reduced from $899,000 to $699,000

MilkAWay Farms, 440.33± Acres, US Highway 41 and Croom Road, Brooksville, Hernando County,Florida — ReducedThe property is located at the Northeast corner of U.S. Highway 41 and Croom Road, Brooksville,Hernando County, Florida 34601. Under the DRI Threshold, this site’s proposed plan consists of 657Single Family Residences, 102 Town homes and 240 Multi-Family Units, for a total of 999 totalunits. The proposed site plan also include 120,000 SF of highwaycommercial. Reduced from original listing price of $4,375,000 to $3,950,0000 Bank Owned.

Throgmartin-Henke Ranch in Citrus County, Floral City, FL — ReducedProperty consist of 1,736± acres on 7 separate properties suitable for development. Zoningvaries from MDR (medium density residential) to LDR (low density residential) toAgricultural. Property includes a 2,750 SF, 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home buildin 2000. Other improvements including fencing on most of the property and 5wells. Has produced peanuts, melons, and grazed up to 600 head of cattle.Reduced from $17,255,400 $10,000 per acre to $16,492,000 or $9500 per acre.


“Each spring, the Florida Strawberry Festival® rolls out thered carpet to welcome visitors from throughout the SunshineState and around the world,” says General Manger, Paul

Davis. Celebrating its 78th anniversary, February 28 – March 10,2013, the Festival’s theme this year is “Our Masterpiece of Fun!”Guests come from near and far to enjoy the masterpiece that is dis-played through exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, live-stock, fine arts, horticulture, and crafts. Davis notes the Festivals“Masterpiece of Fun” includes everything from social events andcontests to youth developmental programs, top-name entertain-ment, and parades with glorious floats and high-stepping marchingbands.

“The Florida Strawberry Festival is a great time to discover thecharm and allure of Plant City,” says Davis, “and it's the perfecttime to enjoy eating ripe, luscious strawberries alongside the localberry farmers that have worked hard to bring them to market.”More than 10,000 acres of strawberries are planted annually in thelocal area. “The Florida Strawberry Festival is honored to be ableto celebrate a harvest that is so dear to this community,” says Davis.

A day at the 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival will bring greatexcitement to kids of all ages. Adult advance ticket prices are $8 forages 13 and up while youth tickets purchased in advance are $4 for6 – 12. Children under 5 are admitted free when accompanied by aticketed adult. Advance general admission and show tickets can bepurchased on the Festival’s website, by calling the ticket office at813-754-1996 or visiting the Amscot Main Ticket Gate at 2209 W.Oak Avenue in Plant City. Group Sales are available by calling 813-719-6680.

The Florida Strawberry Festival is hosting 26 headline acts on theWish Farms Soundstage during the 78th annual event and will alsohave free daily, family-oriented entertainment, nearly 400 vendors,exhibitors and food concessions. For all the headline concerts onthe main soundstage -- which take place at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.each day -- there are about 3,000 free seats available for all shows.The EYE EXPRESS Free Grandstands are filled on a first-come,first-seated basis as part of your paid gate admission. Reserve seattickets are available for $15 and up (varies by show), while supplieslast.

There are several special entertainment values on the midwaywith Ride-A-Thon Days and Moonlight Magic. Monday, Tuesday,

Wednesday and both Thursdays are Ride-A-Thon Days from Noonuntil 11:00 pm with Monday March 4th starting at 10 am. Guestscan purchase a wristband to ride most mechanical rides for one lowprice. Both Fridays nights are Moonlight Magic from 10 p.m. to2:00 a.m., where guests purchase a wristband to ride most mechan-ical rides. Both Sundays are Mountain Dew Family Days whereguests bring a Mountain Dew can to receive a voucher for $5 offthe $25 wristband and ride all day. Be sure to check out the FestivalWebsite for more midway specials brought to you by SweetbaySupermarket, The Tampa Tribune & TBO.com.

“The Florida Strawberry Festival is again teaming with SweetbaySupermarkets where advance gate admission tickets can be pur-chased from now through March 10,” said Davis. The full listing ofparticipating Sweetbay Supermarkets locations is on the Festival’swebsite.

From Senior Citizens' Days to Ride-A-Thons, there are budgetrelieving ways for everyone to enjoy this year's Festival. “TheFestival’s Special Days which run throughout the annual eventwhere members of select groups are admitted free or with a dis-count such as Florida Blue Senior Citizens’ Day, American HeroesDay, Farm Worker Appreciation Day and Free Kids’ Day,” saidDavis. “We offer additional specials on our midway such asMountain Dew Family Day, Tampa Tribune Day and SweetbaySupermarket Day in addition to our annual Moonlight MagicNights,” he noted.

New to the festival this year is JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show.JUMP! Is a nonstop, action packed, Canine Thrill Show that show-cases Incredible Dogs and their Handlers performing amazingstunts to upbeat music that will thrill audiences of all ages. “I havebeen told that most of the performing Pet Stars have been adoptedfrom various Animal Shelters throughout the US,” says Davis. Weare also excited to be welcoming The Sweeney Family Band, aCountry Comedy Revue that is sure to keep you entertained.

Exciting news! The Florida Strawberry Festival now has its veryown APP! And it’s FREE! The Florida Strawberry Festival App canbe found on both the iTunes and Android Markets by searching“Florida Strawberry Festival.” The app not only puts valuableinformation at your fingertips but can help you make your day atthe Festival a true masterpiece by scheduling reminders of the excit-ing events taking place on our grounds! And don’t forget, the appis your GPS! When you park your car, be sure to set the app toremember your location so when you’re ready to head home, theapp will navigate you back to where you started!

Today, the Florida Strawberry Festival is ranked among the top 50fairs in North America. The Florida Strawberry Festival is primari-ly an agricultural fair, formed to celebrate the bountiful harvest ofthe strawberry. The founding principles of the Festival continue tobe the guiding purpose while striving to enrich the lives of thou-sands of our areas youth. “I am proud to say that over the last twoyears, more than 3,400 students who participated in agriculturalcontest at the Florida Strawberry Festival received more than $1.5million in funding through premium awards, scholarships and sales.

Make plans now and mark your calendars for the 78th annualFlorida Strawberry Festival, February 28 – March 10, 2013 wherewe are creating “Our Masterpiece of Fun!” in beautiful Plant City,Florida. For more information on all the Florida StrawberryFestival events, log on to wwwwww..ffllssttrraawwbbeerrrryyffeessttiivvaall..ccoomm or call813-752-9194. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!


THE

EXCITEMENT

IS ABOUT TO

BEGIN!!!

THE FLORIDASTRAWBERRY FESTIVAL®

FEB 28 - MAR 10, 2013



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If you are one of the 1.2 million resi-dents of Hillsborough County, there isa very good chance you rely on the

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office(HCSO) to serve, protect and defend yousince the HCSO does so for the approxi-mately 850,000 people who reside in theunincorporated areas of the county.

The HCSO is an agency of about 4,000law enforcement officers, detentiondeputies and civilians under Sheriff DavidGee with an annual operating budget of$373 million.

A lifelong resident of HillsboroughCounty, Sheriff Gee has served the HCSOand community for more than 34 yearsthrough a series of positions includinghomicide investigator, Internal Affairssupervisor, public information officer, chieffinancial officer and chief deputy. He waselected Sheriff in 2004, re-elected in 2009and again in 2012. Sheriff Gee sees nochange in his plans for the foreseeablefuture. The Gee family traces its rootsback five generations in the county.

Sheriff Gee holds a bachelor’s degree inmathematics from the University ofTampa. He is also a graduate of the FBINational Academy, a graduate of theUnited States Secret Service DignitaryProtection School and he is a law enforce-

ment aviator rated in fixed-wing aircraftand turbine helicopters. Sheriff Geebelieves that law enforcement can only beeffective if it provides service and protec-tion based on the highest standards ofintegrity and professionalism.

A quiet and effective leader, Sheriff Gee isrightly proud of the achievements of hisagency and his staff, especially if you con-sider some very important and tellingfacts.

“In the unincorporated areas ofHillsborough County, our agency hasresponsibility for law enforcement in near-ly 1,000 square miles,” said Sheriff Gee.“That compares to about 125 square milesof area for the city of Tampa.”Additionally, in Tampa the ratio of officersto 1,000 residents is 3.0 while in the areaof the county overseen by the HCSO thatratio is 1.55 deputies for every 1,000 resi-dents.

Currently the HCSO has openings forabout 200 additional deputies, but “Ibelieve it is important and prudent tomove cautiously in this economy,” he said.“In addition we work very hard and dili-gently to attract only the most qualifiedapplicants who will benefit our citizensand our agency.” The starting annualsalary for a deputy is $44,000.

One of the key tools used to measure theeffectiveness of a law enforcement agencyis the crime rate. “We closely follow theUniform Crime Reporting Guidelines asset forth by the Federal Bureau ofInvestigations,” said Sheriff Gee. “Ouragency takes deep pride in the fact that wemost recently reported the lowest crimerate in Hillsborough County on record.That is 23.65 incidents of Part 1 crime per1,000 residents.”

That figure was 52.98 per capita in theyear prior to Sheriff Gee’s initial election tooffice. “We have recorded double digitreductions in criminal activity over each ofthe last four years,” he said. That perform-ance ranks the HCSO among the very bestperforming sheriff’s agencies in the U.S.

Keeping those statistics moving in a down-ward direction requires continued vigi-lance and the application of new tech-niques. “Among those is Intelligence LeadPolicing whereby we continuously monitorthe top 10 most prolific offenders eachweek,” said Sheriff Gee. This is both an artand science that has enabled us to preventcrimes before they occur through ongoinghigh vigilance of these targeted offenders.”

Another aspect of pride for Sheriff Gee isthe working relationship his agency haswith the citizens of Hillsborough County.

Some Things You Should Know About The HCSOBy Jim Frankowiak


“Citizen complaints dropped by more than 60 percent during myinitial three years as sheriff,” he said. “We continue to work toprovide our services in a professional manner to the residents ofthe county. I would urge any citizen who has concerns about theservices of any deputy to politely ask that deputy for the name ofhis or her supervisor. Contact that supervisor and explain thenature of concern in order to resolve the issue.

“I am pleased to note that we receive far more letters of thanksthan those of criticism,” Sheriff Gee said.

When off duty Sheriff Gee enjoys involvement in a range of out-door activities and community services. “I like to hunt, as well asparticipate in competitive shooting and fast draw competitions.”Sheriff Gee and his wife, Rhonda, have four children, including ason who is a Florida State Trooper.

Sheriff Gee is a board member of A Kids Place of Tampa Bay,board member of the Hillsborough County Head Start Program,board member of the Judeo Christian Health Clinic and an activemember of the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches.

For additional information about the HCSO, visit:hhttttpp::// //wwwwww..hhccssoo..ttaammppaa..ffll..uuss

A note of thanks to Sheriff Gee and the men and women of the HCSO.

Keep up the good work!

Vince Costa and Allen Inlow at

Super ServiceTire & Auto




Although he has been HillsboroughCounty Tax Collector since 1998,you can still sense the enthusiasm

and drive Doug Belden has for the positionand its varied services to the residents ofthe county. Perhaps his take on an old say-ing best captures it: “If it ain’t broke,improve it.” An added cornerstone forBelden are his colleagues in the office, themen and women who provide the servicesto the residents of the county at one ofeight locations plus a satellite facility at theAAA office on Westshore Blvd. in Tampa.

Established by the Florida Constitution,the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’sOffice, like its counterparts throughout thestate, is an independent governmentagency and Belden is a constitutional offi-cer. County tax collectors are elected for afour-year term every Presidential electionyear. Belden was first elected in 1998, tak-ing the place of Melvin Smith who hadretired.

The independence of the Tax Collector’sOffice is necessary to serve citizens andboth local and state agencies as it:

• Collects property taxes for every localgovernment agency that levies taxes

• Issues Florida Driver Licenses and IDcards, and processes motor vehicleregistrations and titles on behalf of theDepartment of Highway Safety andMotor Vehicles

• Issues hunting and fishing licenses onbehalf of the Florida Fish and WildlifeConservation Commission

• Manages local revenue programs,such as issuing business tax licensesand collecting tourist developmenttaxes.

Belden recently fought a state initiative toprivatize the centralized distribution oflicense plates, a move that would have costmotorists more money while decreasingservice.

The customers served by the TaxCollector’s Office include residents, busi-ness owners, and government agenciessuch as schools, libraries, and local portand transit authorities. “Consequently, weare a vital link between citizens and themany different programs that affectthem,” he said.

Annually, Belden’s office collects and dis-tributes more than $1.5 billion andprocesses over 2.5 million transactions, asignificant responsibility requiring multi-ple offices throughout the county, morethan 325 skilled staff members and datasystems matched to the scope of its respon-sibilities. Despite those significant rev-enues, the Tax Collector’s office is notfunded from tax dollars. “We are a fee-for-services office,” said Belden. “The fees andcommissions we collect for services provid-ed are used to fund our operating budget,which is approved by the FloridaDepartment of Revenue. I am proud tonote that the volume of our work com-bined with cost-effective operations resultsin fee revenues well beyond our approvedbudget. These ‘unused’ fees are returned tolocal government agencies to fund vitalcounty services. This means “we offer taxcollection services at the lowest possiblecost to taxpayers,” said Belden. The TaxCollector’s current budget is $25 million.

A major portion of taxes collected comefrom real estate property taxes.

“Valuations have been reduced over thelast few years as a result of economic con-ditions and that has been a significant fac-tor in the reduction of fees returned from ahigh of $22 million to $11 million mostrecently, but that is still a noteworthy fig-ure,” he said.

It’s interesting to note that it was the upsand downs of the real estate market thatwere a factor in Belden’s decision to seekpublic office. “I was involved in real estatedevelopment in the area with a number ofpartners, and while we were successful,there were risks,” said Belden. “As a mar-ried man with a family, that was a concern.On the other hand, the private sector expe-rience gave me the skills that have helpedme make our office even better.” Beldenalso notes his post is one not associatedwith controversy, an added attraction forhim.

Public service was another factor. “I comefrom a family of over-achievers and peopleconcerned about helping others.” ATampa native, Belden has three sisters,including Sharon Belden Polo, who wasMiss Florida in 1991. While attendingUniversity of Florida, Belden’s father,Doug Sr., was a four-sport letterman - theonly one noted at that time. In addition, hewas elected to Tampa’s City Council at theage of 26. Doug Sr. died at the age of 45when young Belden was only 17 years old.His mother died when he was 28.

“My grandfather, Dr. Edward L. Flynn,was the most influential person in my life.”Dr. Flynn became the first fighter in histo-ry to win three championships in one year- the national Golden Gloves, the nationalAmateur Athletic Union, and the

By Jim Frankowiak

“THE BOTTOM LINE”

DOUGBELDENHILLSBOROUGH COUNTYTAX COLLECTOR


Olympics. He was the first Olympic gold medalist from Florida,taking that honor in 1932. Dr. Edward Flynn was an oral surgeonand his brother was an obstetrician. They shared an office andoften provided free medical services to people in the communitywithout insurance, including police officers, firefighters, nuns,and the poor. “My father and grandfather taught me theimportance of leadership and diversity – and the importance ofgetting along with everyone regardless of color, gender, orsocio-economic level.”

Growing up in South Tampa, Belden counts many notable Tampafamilies among his friends and business associates. His lifelongfriends include Steve Swindal, John Twomey, Ed Flom, JoeCordell, Jr., Howard Frankland, Mackie Paniello, and others.Belden was also business partners with the late industrialist JimWalter and his son, Robert.

Belden takes particular pride in the accomplishments of his office.“What I promised the people of Hillsborough County during myfirst campaign has taken place and we continue to work hard toimprove,” he said. Attesting to the success of the Tax Collector’soffice is the Governor’s Sterling Award in 2008 and theGovernor’s Sustained Performance Excellence Award in 2011.Belden is quick to note the efforts of his staff for these honors andtheir ongoing commitment to service.

“We continually seek input from customers and employees onhow we’re doing and what we can do better,” he said. Keepingstaff motivated and engaged has been a challenge in the last sev-eral years in the midst of no pay raises due to a poor economy.However, Belden tries to keep his employees enthusiastic abouttheir jobs. “I make it a point to reach out to my staff and dothings that reflect my appreciation for their hard work and com-mitment to our office. Though we cannot provide pay increasesat this time due to budget constraints, we offer semi-annual per-formance days off for employees if the organization achieves ourcustomer satisfaction performance targets,” he said. Belden’s staffis 74 percent female, and the diversity of his workforce mirrorsthe diverse population of Hillsborough County.

Belden credits his son as being the most motivating factor in hislife. “My pride and joy is my son, Doug, 21. He is my heart andsoul and my best friend,” he said.

As to the future, Belden will probably run for one more term andthen dedicate his time volunteering for charitable organizations.He hopes to be remembered “as a good leader who was fair andtreated his employees well. I hope people will recognize that Iaccomplished what I promised the citizens of HillsboroughCounty.”

For additional information about the Hillsborough County TaxCollector’s office, visit: hhttttpp::// //wwwwww..hhiillllssttaaxx..oorrgg


2014 Forms AvailableApril 1st



Getting youngsters to eat their vegetables can often try thepatience of the most saintly parent. Many children don’twant to try new things, the offered food doesn’t look

appealing to them, they just don’t want to eat it, the excuses goon and on. Now, I’ve got a secret for you. Ready? Let them growtheir own food!

To begin, In The Field and Growum’s staff headed toSpringhead Elementary to work with third grade students,assisting them in the set up of their gardens. A variety of gar-dens are available, including the Taco Garden, which includesjalapeno pepper, iceberg, tomato and cilantro seeds, the SaladGarden that includes romaine lettuce, carrots, cucumber andRoma tomato seeds, the Pizza Garden, with Roma tomato,basil, oregano and bell pepper seeds, the Ratatouille Gardenhas eggplant, tomato, bell pepper and zucchini seeds, the HerbGarden has oregano, cilantro, parsley and basil seeds, andfinally, the Stir-Fry Garden includes broccoli, Bok Choy, carrotand sugar snap pea seeds.

Armed with a number of Growums “Garden in a Boxes,” it wasour mission to get these children involved in the preparationand planting of a garden. The first thing was to prepare theboxes for the transplanting of the seedlings so they will beready to go. Warm water is added to a plastic bag that containsblock of Growum’s magic soil. Then the fun begins. The stu-dents had to break the magic soil up into a useable form to put

in the box so it would be ready to go. The adults seemed to behaving just as much fun as the kids!

Once the boxes were set up it was time to plant the seeds in thespecially prepared tray. Water was used once again, seeds wereplanted and markers added. Then the waiting began. I’m surethe students are checking their trays regularly to watch thesprouts emerge from the soil.

The learning doesn’t end there. You can register your gardenon the Growums web site and the characters come to life! Dukethe Cuke, Carin the Carrot, Frank Cilantro, Elvis Parsley and ahost of others make learning about gardening and vegetables somuch fun!

And what child will be able to resist trying the vegetables theyhad a hand in growing and nurturing? The students are alsolearning an invaluable lesson. They are learning where theirfood comes from. They also learn responsibility.

From its inception in 2004, In The Field magazine has beenreaching out to those involved in agriculture, as well as thosewho are generations removed from farming and ranching. Ithas never been more important than it is today to teach thepopulation how there food is grown. These third graders willlearn a new appreciation for the dedication it takes and hope-fully learn to like a new vegetable. •

Growumsat Springheadby Sarah Holt






Many people last winter asked: What is the HillsboroughCounty Extension Service trying to cover-up? Theanswer is simple. We’re trying to protect plants in the

Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden we think we can’t live without!We’re certain you will see our ‘Cover-Up’ again this year, too!

Plant coverings are frost protection versus cold protection. Coverscan be sheets, quilts, or frost/freeze cloth and should be in placebefore the sun goes down. Other than frost/freeze cloth, the cov-ers must be removed during daylight. Frost/freeze cloth mayremain in place for several days as air and light flow through thecloth. Plastic is not a good choice because it transfers the coldonto the plant. You can, however, put plastic on top of the sheetor quilt during windy freezes or on very cold nights. The coveringyou select must extend to the ground to capture heat from the soiland provide wind protection. You can make a frame over theplant you are covering, then place the covering on top of theframe. This way, nothing touches the plant itself. A cardboardbox large enough to fully cover the plant is another option.

Even though you have covered your plants, an additional sourceof heat may be needed. Christmas tree lights—not LED becausethey do not provide heat—or a light bulb may provide enoughheat to protect your plant from freezing. Covering tropical plantsin your landscape and those not hardy in your zone may helpthose plants survive cold weather. If you can’t live without tropi-cal plants and they have not survived the past few winters, youmay need to plant them in containers so you can move them fromyour landscape to your porch, lanai, or garage. Your garage maywell be 10-plus degrees warmer than the outside temperature,which is another option for plant storage during freezing temper-atures. Container plants can be covered to the ground or groupedtogether and covered.

Don’t encourage new plant growth by pruning or fertilizingbecause the plant will be more prone to cold damage. Pruningalters the hormone balance resulting in a growth flush. There aretwo options on pruning. The first is to delay pruning post-freezeuntil you see new growth and after the risk of a future freeze pass-es. Then prune beyond the point of black or brown stem col-

oration. The damaged plant material insulates and protects thelive parts of the plant. The second option is to prune all dead plantmaterial and freeze damage after the freeze. This makes it easierto cover and protect the plant if a freeze occurs before spring.

Healthy plants are less prone to cold damage and more resistantto insect damage or disease. Landscape plants need less fertiliza-tion in the fall because their nutrient intake is smaller that time ofyear.

Slightly moisten the soil before a freeze or near-freeze becausemoist soil releases more heat than dry soil. Hand watering theground beneath the plant helps.

This is a great time of year to mulch now that it has cooled off.Maintain a three-inch layer of mulch after it settles. Mulch helpsregulate the soil temperature and protects the plant roots.

After a freeze you should check to determine if your plant needswater. The leaves could be losing water while frozen waterremains in the soil. Applying water to the soil will provide both athaw and water for your plant at the same time.

Practice the first principle of Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM,which is Right Plant, Right Place. Consider sun/shade, wet/dry,mature size, soil type and pH. Cold sensitive ornamentals shouldbe planted in an area where air flows freely. Use screening, fences,and landscape design where multiple plants are located strategi-cally for protection. Well-drained soil enhances root growth andstability. Plants in the shade become dormant earlier in the falland stay that way until later in the spring. You can reduce the coldinjury the plant will suffer if you plant it under a tree canopybecause the evening temperature is higher. Shade-thriving plantshave less moisture loss than full sun-loving plants. Sun-lovingplants living in shady conditions are less cold tolerant.

Most perennials are root hardy. While the foliage will die back tothe ground, new growth will appear in the spring. Be patientbecause it can take several months before shoots are visible abovethe ground.

For assistance with horticultural questions, call: 813-744-5519or visit us at the Hillsborough County Extension Service,

5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584. More gardeninginformation is available at: hhttttpp::// //hhiillllssbboorroouugghh..iiffaass..uuffll..eedduu andhhttttpp::// // eeddiiss..iiffaass..uuffll..eedduu. Remember to reuse, reduce and recycle.

Extension Service Cover-UpWhat’s The Story?Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM AgentHillsborough County and UF/IFAS Extension



Gardening in Florida is a cherished yearlong pastime in. Formany gardeners, the creation of a private paradise is alluringenough, for others, it is regaining a connection with the earth.

If you’re anything like me, the enchantment results from the varietyof creatures that can be discovered while tending the garden. Thepredatory flatworm (Bipalium kewense), is commonly called a ham-merhead worm because its head resembles that of a hammerheadshark. A closer look at this extraordinary worm exemplifies the amaz-ing adaptations of even the simplest of animals.

Bipalium kewense is a species of predatory land flatworm of the fam-ily Geoplanidae, which as a group, play an important role in the soilecosystem by feeding on earthworms, snails, slugs, termites and otherinvertebrates. Unable to retain water, flatworms are vulnerable tohumidity and environmental variations and by their virtue, an impor-tant indicator species for monitoring environmental changes. Becauseflatworms are limited in their natural ability to spread, specific speciesare associated with corresponding fauna or groups of animals foundtogether in an ecosystem. Monitoring flatworm populations can givescientist a heads up on environmental changes that can affect the flat-worms associated fauna. The nature of this beast will fascinate someand horrify others. Over half of the known flatworm species areparasitic to human and livestock populations. Fortunately, Bipaliumkewense is excluded from the parasitic population and is every bit thehunter as the largest of predators.

Predatory flatworms have chemical sensing organs under the head oralong its underside. The predatory flatworm tracks its prey at nightusing chemical sensing organs located under its head. It stalks slugs,snails and worms by following the mucus path they have left behind.Once found, Bipalium kewense pins its prey to the ground and entan-gles it in a slimy discharge. The pharynx is an extensible tube locatedabout in the middle of the body that connects the mouth to the intes-tine and comes into play next by releasing an enzyme for externaldigestion and later to consume its liquefied meal.

The half moon shape of the head is the distinguishing feature ofBipalium kewense that gives it the common name of hammerheadworm, on it are pigmented eyespots (ocelli) that function as photore-ceptors to help the worm avoid light. The widest section of the head

terminates with the auricles which provide a sense of touch as well asdetect certain chemicals. The apparent gliding movement of the flat-worm is a result of tiny cilia (hair like structures) moving to propelthe flatworm over a thin stream of mucus. The mucus is thick enoughthat it is sometimes used to lower the worm down from plants as if itwere a rope.

The ability of flatworms to regenerate makes it essentially immortaland has attracted scientists to study this animal in research related tohuman aging. Flatworms are asexual and reproduce by sheddingfragments of their body. Each fragment matures into a clone of theparent. If a flatworm is wounded or even cut in half, the existing cellsat the wound site will multiply to create blastema, a group of cellscapable of regeneration. The blastema will differentiate to regenerateany body part or organ needed. Reportedly, a complete organism candevelop from a fragment of only 1/279 the parent’s size. If the headof the flatworm is sliced in half down the center, a second head islikely to grow. Interestingly, these worms are even known to consumetheir own tissue as a food source when other resources dwindle.

In nature, these worms live in shaded humid environments such asleaf litter or under large rocks and logs. You may see them onconcrete surfaces after a heavy rain. Natural fragmentation occurs acouple times per month causing exponential population growth insmall gardens and nurseries that can easily overwhelm a soilecosystem. Because earthworms seem to be a favored meal for thepredatory flatworm, these worms can quickly become a devastatingthreat, especially for worm farmers. Commercial horticulturalpractices and the distribution of potted plants is the biggest contribu-tor in the dispersion of the predatory flatworm. Once establishedthese populations are difficult to eradicate without significant damageto other soil organisms. An easy way to attract flatworms to a cen-tral location for manual removal is to provide a habitat for them, aburlap sack or large sheet of plywood works well if the soil is keptdamp. Flatworms can be collected during daylight hours for a reward-ing observation experience at night. If your ambition is to eradicatethe flatworm from your garden paradise so it will benefit from theearthworm population, coating flatworms with diatomaceous earthshould do the trick, remember cutting them in half will be counter-productive. •

By Sean GreenA Closer Look

Predatory Flatworm (Bipalium kewense)




Eggrolls, fried chicken and French fries,is your mouth watering reading thosefew words? Does the smell of these

foods bring back memories of family gather-ing and good times or does it remind you ofbeing stuck in traffic? That’s right, I said stuckin traffic. Well, that’s what some commutershave told Bill Short of Tampa. They tell himthat the exhaust from his 2003 VW Jetta TDIsmells like eggrolls or French fries frying.Motorcyclists especially dislike being stuckbehind him in traffic. “They don’t typicallylike the smell of French fries or eggrolls rightin their face as we travel down the road,”Short said. You see, his Jetta doesn’t run ongas, it runs on grease! Grease he gets fromrestaurants or churches. “I have been fortu-nate to get the oil I use from churches that doFriday night fish fries and a couple of restau-rants that believe in the green message Ipreach,” Short said.

For the last five years, Short has owned andoperated Gulfcoast Dental Repair, a smallbusiness that repairs the drills and instru-ments of dentist and dental hygienists. Part ofShort’s business was driving around to the dif-ferent dental offices in the Tampa Bay area topick up and deliver the drills and instrumentsthat needed repair. With gas prices edging on$4 a gallon, this was a huge expense thataffected his profitability. He started lookingfor more economical ways to handle thedeliveries. “I looked at hydrogen add-ons tomy gas vehicle, converting to natural gaspowered cars and even swapping computerchips in the car,” Short said. “They all seemedto be pipedreams or too expensive to make aconversion or even toxic.”

He even thought a diesel car may be ananswer. “I figured that diesel is 20 percentmore expensive but you get as much as 40percent in better mileage,” Short said. “IfI switched to a diesel car, I would save $2000a year in fuel cost, but then again the cost toswitch cars from gas to diesel became prohib-itive.”

That’s when he found Greasecar.com, whichis a website that sells kits to convert your carto run on vegetable oil. The site was started in2000 by a Hampshire College student namedJustin Carven after he converted a 1983 VWQuantum Turbo-Diesel he found in the classi-

fied ads for $300. According to the Greasecarwebsite, a converted car runs off of a twotank fuel system. “The vehicle’s existing dieseltank and filter will supply diesel fuel to theengine at start up and shut down. After startup, radiator fluid will transfer heat from theengine to the heat exchange in the Greasecarfuel system. These heat exchanges will heatthe vegetable oil in the fuel filter, line and fueltank. The heat will reduce the viscosity ofvegetable oil so that it’s similar to diesel andcan be injected into the engine properly.When the vehicle is being shut down for aperiod long enough for the fuel to cool, thevegetable oil must be purged from the fuelsystem and replaced with diesel for the nextstart up. Purging generally takes around 30seconds and can be done while driving withthe push of a button on the Greasecar con-trols.”

This system is designed to work with manydiesel cars and trucks. The most commonvehicles used for conversion are Volkswagens,Mercedes, Chevys, Fords, GMC and Dodges.The exhaust from a car that runs on grease orvegetable oil is less harmful as well. If the fuelyour car runs on is derived from fossil fuels,all carbon contain in the fuel eventually endsup as excess carbon dioxide. If your car runson vegetable oil, you are emitting c02 that hasalready been removed from the atmosphere.

Short said conversion kit cost him roughly$1200-$1500, but he gets his grease for free,so he’s ahead of the game. “For 8000 miles Iuse one tank of diesel and multiple tanks offree oil, I actually get 177 miles to the dollarand I calculated I saved over $4000 in fuel,”Short said. “ But the real reward is the bottomline for my business.” He has also found moreways to save money with his converted car.He has learned how to recycle the oil andmakes his own filters. “I look for really frugalways to filter the oil,” Short said. “One exam-ple is instead of buying premade filters thatcan run $10 a pack, and I use old jeans I buyfrom thrift stores for $2, which works great!”

Short hopes to set up a co-operative withother like minded people and share the bene-fits of waste vegetable oil. For more informa-tion on how to convert your car to run onvegetable oil, you can visit the Greasecar web-site at wwwwww..ggrreeaasseeccaarr..ccoomm.

Powered byEggrollsBy Libby Hopkins

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OORR CCAALLLL 881133--775599--66990099

No-Bake StrawberryCheesecake

Strawberry-infusedBourbon

PREPARATIONBeat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.Fold in whipped topping. Spoon mixture intograham crumb crust. Refrigerate for 2 hours.Once the cheesecake has set, garnish withsliced strawberries and serve. For even morestrawberry flavor, try adding our strawberrysyrup to the top of the cheesecake while itchills in the refrigerator.

Don’t forget this recipe in the summer monthswhen you don’t want to heat up your kitchen. Inthat case, substitute the sliced fresh Florida straw-berries with thawed and macerated Florida straw-berries for that familiar Florida taste!

PREPARATIONThe strawberry to bourbon ratio is up to you.The more strawberries you have, the strongerthe strawberry flavor. Just make sure youhave enough bourbon to cover the berries.

Rinse the strawberries, then chop off theleafy tops known as calyx. Next, slice up thestrawberries into small pieces and place intowhatever air-tight vessel you choose. An oldalcohol bottle or mason jar works best.

Fill the vessel with your bourbon, makingsure it covers the top of the berries with a lit-tle room to spare. Affix an airtight lid on thecontainer, give it a little shake and put in acool, dark space. No need to refrigerate orfreeze, a cupboard or cabinet will work justfine. Give it a little shake once a day.

After the bourbon has soaked up enough ofthe delicious Florida strawberries, about aweek, it’s time to strain the strawberry-infused bourbon. If you have a chinois sieve,go ahead and give that a go. Otherwise acolander or funnel lined with cheesecloth ora coffee filter will work just fine. You caneither discard the strawberries or use themas a tasty garnish for a Strawberry Shortcakeor Strawberry Cheesecake.

The strawberry-infused bourbon will keep inyour refrigerator or freezer for up to a month.

Pretty much everyone loves cheesecake. Its rich flavorand velvety smoothness is probably only bested by agreat crème brûlée. The problem with cheesecake, andcoincidentally crème brûlée, is the difficulty foundwhen trying to make one. The oven has to be the per-fect temperature and the humidity has to be just rightor else you end up with a dry, cracked and uglycheesecake.

It might all taste the same but it sure won’t look allthat appetizing! Baking the cheesecake in a waterbath can help but it isn’t a sure-fire solution. Once outof the oven you have to wait overnight for it to coolbefore you can give it a taste.

You know what the solution is? A no bake cheesecake!This recipe comes from the great AAllllrreecciippeess..ccoomm,requires just five ingredients and can be ready to sharewith you and yours in a short two hours!

RECIPES

106 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1/3 cup white sugar

1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping,

thawed

1 (9 inch) prepared graham cracker crust

1/2 pint sliced fresh Florida strawberries

Fresh strawberries

Bourbon

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ANIMALS & NEEDS

NUSIANCE HOG PROBLEM?Call 813-703-2330

ANIMAL & BIRDCAGESEquipment serving the fur bearing animal & exoticbird industry! Cages built to order. Wire by roll orfoot. (813) 752-2230. Call Don Ammerman.www.ammermans.comSwaps July 14, 2013 and December 1, 2013.

CHICKEN MANURE FOR SALEDry and available immediately! Call Tim Fordor Danny Thibodeau 863-439-3232

DOVE HUNTSLithia area limited number of membershipsstill available. Call Fish Hawk Sporting Clays.813-689-0490.

BUILDING SUPPLIES

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

WINDOW SCREENSWe make window screens of all sizes available indifferent frame colors. Call Ted 813-752-3378

T1-11 4 X 8 SHEET 5/8-INCH THICKB-grade $22.95. 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 Home Tubs.Call Ted 813-752-3378 $145.00

FARM EQUIPMENT

JCB WORK MAX 800DUTV, less than 50 miles, 4X4, diesel. Used.$9,750. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

HEAVY DUTY SHOP BUILT 14 FT TRAILERNew tires & wheels$750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

MASSSEY HARRIS FERGUSON NO. 16 PACERWith belly mower$1950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

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

KUBOTAMid-Mount Mower Deck. Model RC 60-21B,60 inch cut. Excellent condition! $595Call 813-759-2348.

FORD 3400 INDUSTRIAL TRACTORWith loader, skid steer attached.$7,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

MASSEY FERGUSONGC2300 4 X 4 hydro stat transmission,2702 hrs. $4,750 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

NEW HOLLAND TC182001, 525 actual hours, 4X4.$4,950 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

USED EQUIPMENTMowers, disk, box blades & diskplows. Call Alvie TODAY!813-759-8722

SNAPPER PRO 50Zero turn mower, 36" cut,kawasaki engine, 43 hrs. $3,250Call Alvie 813-759-8722

SHAVER 5O STUMP GRINDER3pt. lift. Excellent condition.$2,950 Call Alvie 813-8722

FOR SALE

KITCHEN CABINETSAll wood kitchen cabinets.Call Tedd 813-752-3378

14KT GOLD AMMOLITE RINGUnique Multi-colored fossil gem with uniquemounting. Size 8 $250 or best offer.Call 863-370-8891

HORSE ACTION PAINTINGSSet of six delightful watercolor on ink paintingsof horses in action by Burdick. Three mostly bluishand three goldish/brown. Various sizes.Professionally matted and gold framed.Asking $525 for the set. 863-326-9845

HAY FOR SALERound bale, 100 available.Call 863-287-3091

TOP GRADE TANZANITE RING 18KT GOLDTop grade, 18kt. Beautiful piece of jewelry. 1.05ktround nice blue gem with channel side diamonds.Size 7-1/2 $1,100 Call 863-370-8891

JOBS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERWrite about events in your community.Immediate openings in Hillsborough andPolk Counties. Paid per article.Responsibilities include covering communityevents and taking pictures. Email your resumeto [email protected]

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LAWN EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES

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

TSG50 WOODS3pt. stump grinder. Clearance Sale!$3,381. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

HUSTLER X1Zero Turn mower. Loaner, 88 hours, 60” cut,31hp Kawasaki. $8,100 Call Alvie 813-759-8722

MISC.

PRIVATE INVESTORWill consider any situation. 813-986-9141

REAL ESTATE

WALDEN LAKE EASTDesirable Walden Lake home!3/2, NEW Kitchen all stainless steelappliance’s. Ready to sell.Call Malissa Crawford @ 813-967-0168

FOR SALE – 45 ACRES VACANT LAND(Pasco County) 45 acres are comprised of gently rolling hills with big trees & solid ground. A great setting for residential development. To the east of theproperty is a 60 acre parcel (Lake Gilbert) that adds significant aesthetic value to the 45 acres. Zoning: AR (Agricultural-Rural) Call Heidi Cecil for more information 863-899-9620

FOR LEASE24 Acre Farm 5" Well Gulf City & Willis Road.Ruskin FL. Call or email [email protected]

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

FOR LEASE15 acre for hay. State Road 70 & Vernon Road.Manatee County.Call or email [email protected]

MOUNTAIN HOMELocated in Blairsville Georgia!Private home with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, unfurnished basement, nice kitchen, sunroom, back deck for cooking out. Nestled in the trees,cool enough that there is no AC. Lots of outbuildings. A must see!MLS#212679, $180,000. 2.47 acres wooded, low maintenance.Call Jane Baer with Jane Baer Realty 1-800-820-7829

38+ ACRE PROPERTYPerfect for ranch or fishfarm. Zoned Ar,Zoning allows division.Located close to Sun CityCenter and small airport.Possible seller financing.Call Barbara Hutcheson 813-505-1769

Classifieds Tel: 813.759.6909 [email protected]



Documents

In The Field Hillsborough edition