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2 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012 W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M AG A Z I N E .C O M

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Contents

4 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012 WWW. INTHEF I E LDMAGAZ INE .COM

Cover StoryJohn SticklesPage 53

VOL. 8 • ISSUE 10

Business Up FrontPage 10

Tampa Bay’s Fishing ReportPage 14

Grub StationPage 18

BiopesticidesPage 20

Rocking Chair ChatterPage 22

Jessica CopelandPage 30

Tropical Storm DebbyPage 35

Healthy Dogs7RecipesPage 50

The Critters Have It!Page 60

Food and NutritionPage 64

Protecting the WaterfrontPage 66

Burning To HelpPage 68Ask-A-VetPage 84

®

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012 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


Did you hear about the United States Department ofAgriculture’s gaff over Meatless Monday? Some poor soulhad the nerve to suggest that the USDA’s cafeteria partici-pate in Meatless Monday. Yep, really. I saw the briefest ofnotes on this in a local paper and had to investigate itmore. Here’s what I found:

An internal memo at USDA suggested: “One simple wayto reduce your environmental impact while dining at ourcafeterias is to participate in the 'Meatless Monday' initia-tive http://www.meatlessmonday.com/. … How will goingmeatless one day of the week help the environment? Theproduction of meat, especially beef (and dairy as well), hasa large environmental impact. …. Because MeatlessMonday involves only one day a week, it is a small changethat could produce big results. Did you notice that ourcafeterias have tasty meatless options? So you can reallyhelp yourself and the environment while having a goodvegetarian meal!”

Of course after the National Cattlemen’s Beef Associationand Texas agriculture commission Todd Staples, amongothers, put in their two cents worth, the USDA issued thefollowing via Twitter: ““UUSSDDAA MMTT @@uussddaapprreessss:: UUSSDDAAddooeess nnoott eennddoorrssee MMeeaattlleessss MMoonnddaayy.. SSttaatteemmeenntt oonn UUSSDDAAssiittee ppoosstteedd ww//oo pprrooppeerr cclleeaarraannccee.. IItt hhaass bbeeeenn rreemmoovveedd // //@@FFaarrmmBBuurreeaauu..””

What does this tell us? Would you like to be a part of anorganization that will stand up for your rights as a farmerand rancher? Take action and become part of theHillsborough County Farm Bureau. It is an organizationthat will be sure your voice is heard. They will fight foryour rights!

Once again, a big Thank You to our advertisers. You allow us to continue to cover what is growing! We appreciate each and every one of you.

Until Next Month,

Sarah

Crescent Jewelers................................................................69Dad’s Towing....................................................................59Discount Metals...............................................................15Dr. Barry Gaffney O.D. PA.............................................61Driscoll’s............................................................................57Earhart’s Runway Grill ...................................................87Farm Bureau Insurance...................................................46Farm Bureau Insurance/Jeff Sumner..............................85Farm Credit ......................................................................21Felton’s ..............................................................................51Fischbach Land Company..............................................63Florida Dept. of Agriculture............................................17Florida Strawberry Growers Assoc................................62Fluid Measurements ........................................................43Forbes Road Produce......................................................16Fred’s Market ...................................................................15Fishhawk Sporting Clays ................................................35Fronto Recycling...................................................48 & 49Gator Ford........................................................................37Gerald Keene Plumbing ..................................................71Grove Equipment Service.....................................19 & 36Gulf Coast Tractor...........................................................88Harold’s Feed & Pet Supply .............................................3Harrell’s Nursery, Inc.......................................................85Haught Funeral Home....................................................58Helena Chemical-Tampa...................................................9Hillsboro State Bank........................................................77Hillsborough County Farm Bureau......................4 & 59Hinton Farms Produce, Inc.............................................44Home Protection Pest Control .......................................25I-4 Power Equipment ......................................................42IHOP.................................................................................31Johnson’s Barbeque..........................................................57Jon & Rosie’s Tree Farm.................................................85Key Plex............................................................................40Loetscher Auto Parts .......................................................34Malissa Crawford............................................................33Mark Smith Excavating..................................................19Meryman Environmental, Inc........................................37Mosaic...............................................................................39Myers Cleaners.................................................................65Parkesdale.........................................................................11Pathway BioLogic............................................................70Plant City Tire & Auto Service, Inc. ................................9Pool Masters.....................................................................71Product Consultants Unlimited (PCU)..........................67Rick’s Custom Meats ......................................................21Ring Power Corporation ................................................29Roadrunner Oil & Lube.................................................21Savich & Lee Wholesale .................................................26Seedway ............................................................................77Shrimp & Co Express.....................................................29South Florida Baptist Hospital .......................................56Southside Farm & Pet Supply........................................80Southwestern Produce.....................................................27Stephanine Humprey.......................................................29Stingray Chevrolet............................................................32Super Service Tire & Auto..............................................81Tampa Bay Times............................................................33The Hay Depot................................................................57Timberlane Pet Hospital & Resort................................16Trinkle, Redman, Swanson, Coton,Davis & Smith .................................................................75Walden Lake Car Wash.....................................................7Wells Memorial................................................................21Willie’s..................................................................................7Woodside Dental..............................................................41Zaxby’s..............................................................................73

ABC Pizza..................................................................9Ag Technologies ........................................................5Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers .............................23American Cancer Society.......................................85Aquarius Water Refining.......................................25Astin Strawberry Exchange...................................85Bill’s Transmissions.................................................77Bingham...................................................................78Bloomingdale Children’s House............................34Brandon Auto Services, Inc. ..................................16Broke & Poor..........................................................75Byrd & Barnhill, P.L.................................................7C&C Services of Tampa........................................79Cecil Breeding Farm...............................................24CF Industries, Inc....................................................82 Chemical Containers..............................................44Certis ........................................................................52Choo Choo Lawn Equipment...................13 & 83Chuck’s Tire & Automotive ...................................2Cowboys Western World ......................................12

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 CramptonJosé Mendoza

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Mona Jackson

PHOTOGRAPHY

Karen BerryAl Berry

Stephanie Humphrey

STAFF WRITERS

Al BerrySandy Kaster

James FrankwoiakSean GreenGinny Mink

Libby Hopkins

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

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Dear Reader:

I must begin this letter to you on a sad note. FormerHillsborough County Farm Bureau Board MemberJohn Stickles passed away July 26. He had servedon the HCFB board from 2001 – 2007.

A partner of Florida Pacific Farms and BoardMember of the Florida Fruit and VegetableAssociation, John had also served on the boardof the Florida Strawberry Growers Association.Our most sincere condolences to his widow, Kim,daughter, Helen and siblings Robert, Donaldand Susan.

All of us on the board of Hillsborough County FarmBureau are usually satisfied going along quietly as weserve the needs of our membership and community.There are exceptions, however, and this month offersme an opportunity I just can’t pass up.

The Plant City Chamber of Commerce recognized usas 2012 Agri-Business of the Year and of equalimportance was the selection of our board memberMichelle Williamson as Agriculturist of the Year.

“We are pleased to be able to recognize these out-standing individuals and businesses. Their contribu-tions make a significant difference to the agricultureindustry in Plant City and Hillsborough County,”said Debbie Simpson who chairs the Chamber’s Agri-Business Committee.

I would like to express the thanks of all of us at FarmBureau for this honor and recognition. Michelletypifies the many volunteers who serve not only ourindustry, but community, too. She rarely says no torequests for volunteer assistance and does what shedoes on behalf of the industry and community becauseit’s the right thing to do.

This recognition presents an opportunity to remindyou that you don’t have to be a farmer or rancherto belong to Farm Bureau. If you support:

• The right to freely practice your religious beliefs• Our nation’s Constitution and laws• Private property rights• Environmental practices based on sound science• A competitive free market system• Freedom of opportunity• Respect for fellow man

It would be worth your while or that of yourneighbors and friends to consider membership inFarm Bureau. In addition to advocacy on behalf ofa range of important principles, your $54 annualmembership (that’s for your whole family) bringswith it a host of benefits that make it pretty tough topass up. Here in Florida we have more than 144,000family members and we are also part of a substantialnational organization. Whether local, state or national,we do have the ear of our elected leaders and thoseseeking office.

For more information on Farm Bureau, includinghow to join and the benefits of membership,please visit wwwwww..hhccffbb..oorrgg or call 813/685-9121.

Thank you,

DannyDanny AprilePresident

THANK YOU PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Board of DirectorsDanny Aprile, President; Bill Burnett, Vice-President; Jemy Hinton, Treasurer; George Coleman, Secretary; Glenn Harrell,

Member-at-large; Amanda Collins, Roy Davis, David Drawdy, Jim Dyer, Jim Frankowiak, Stefan Katzaras, Joe Keel, Greg Lehman, Kenneth Parker,Jake Raburn, Marty Tanner, James Tew, Patrick Thomas, Michelle Williamson and Ray Wood

Judi Whitson, Executive Director

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


• Peter the Great taxed people with beards.• Gibraltar was named after a slave.• Diamonds will break if hit with a hammer.• There are more than 20,000 brands of beer.• More movies are produced in India than Hollywood.• The first credit card was issued in 1951.• The Tower of Pisa has never been straight.• Paul Revere never finished his ride.• Five billion crayons are produced every year.• The first submarine was designed in 1578.• Half of the worldʼs population has seen at lease one 007 movie.• Expresso has less caffeine than a cup of coffee.• If you give flowers on Motherʼs Day from a florists in the United

States, itʼs likely that the flowers you get were grown in eitherCalifornia or Colombia.

• The first known government sports organization in the countrywas the Philippine Amateur Athletic Federation.

• Thereʼs a national championship for pigeon breeding.• Did you know that the rooster crows at dawn?• Roosters cannot crow if they fully extend their necks.• The Underside of horseʼs hoof is called the frog.


For the past 16 years Jim and JenniferBrown, the couple behind ProductConsultants Unlimited (PCU), have

been providing end users, companies andassociations “all things A to Z in the com-puter business,” said Jim. “In the industrythere’s a designation called trusted advisor.That’s an apt description of the way wework with all of our clients. We strive towin their trust.” Not surprisingly, theBrown’s have customers from throughoutcentral Florida and even as far away asGeorgia.

Your one stop computing source, PCU islocated at 3017 James L. Redman Parkwayin the retail center on the south side ofPlant City. In addition to selling desktops,laptops and tablets, PCU also offers anentire range of hardware and software plusweb page design and hosting, virus

removal and data recovery. Offered repairsinclude Macs, laptops, LCD replacement,DC jack replacement and IPad/tabletrepairs. Brown also offers service contractsand a range of on site services, as well ason location assistance.

“We began our business focusing on build-ing systems and eventually morphed intocomputer repair,” said Brown. The upsand downs of the economy have promptedthe Brown’s to continually adjust to thechanging needs of the marketplace. “Itisn’t uncommon for major retailers toforce customers to adapt to the way theydo business, while we do the opposite andcontinually challenge ourselves to meetthe needs that arise for advances intechnology. We are able to change courseon a dime and we feel that is important tohelp meet the needs of our customers.”

Brown was born and raised in Plant City,while his wife is originally from Fond duLac, Wisconsin, relocating to Lakelandwith her parents who made the move afterretiring. Jim traces his roots to a long lineof farmers in Plant City. His heritage alsoincludes the Plant City Shoe Fixery, whichwas located at 101 South Drane Street,now called Arden Mays Boulevard in theheart of Plant City. Brown has also servedstints as president of the Plant CityDowntown Business and MerchantsAssociation and Kiwanis Club of PlantCity.

After receiving an undergraduate degreefrom the University of South Florida,Brown joined Winter Haven Hospitalwhere he served as InformationTechnology Manager and a Mental HealthSpecialist. He met Jennifer who worked inthe retail industry for a friend. Thatromance blossomed and they married.They have three children, a 15-year-oldboy and two girls, ages 4 and 9.

Brown decided to open his first store inPlant City in 1996, despite admonitionsnot to “do such a crazy thing.” Over theyears, the Brown’s have had as many asfour locations, but the impact of the econ-omy prompted them to downsize. “Wehave also been instrumental in trainingpeople on various aspects of technologythat enabled them to compete with us,” hesaid. “That is part of our ongoing

Business Up Front

PRODUCT CONSULTANTS UNLIMITEDBy Jim Frankowiak

Your Local Trusted Advisorfor All Things Computer


customer service commitment that mayhave cost us.” However, it was also part ofthe reason Brown has become known as“The Computer Guy” in Plant City. TheBrown’s do little traditional advertisingthanks to a continuing flow of referralsfrom satisfied customers. “We do utilizeweb-based marketing opportunities, buttruly appreciate the many referrals wereceive,” he said.

In addition to individual end users, PCUhas and continues to serve small compa-

nies and associations across centralFlorida. And as the firm continues to rein-vent itself by expanding its services toembrace emerging technologies, that refer-ral base and flow of new customers contin-ues to increase.

If you are in the market for a “trustedadvisor” to help you with your technologychallenges, consider PCU. You can checkthem on the web at wwwwww..ppccuussttoorree..ccoomm orstop in and meet Jim and Jennifer Brown. •


Like us, comfort is paramount to allspecies and water temperature is amajor factor because of its governing

effect on bodily functions.

Ever questioned whysome fish congregate ina particular area oneday and completelydisappear the next?There could be differentreasons fish relocate, butthe most overlooked isprobably water temper-ature. Whereas almostall fish are cold-blooded,weather and water tem-perature inevitably con-trols their activity, feed-ing patterns, and whereyou find them. Everyspecies has particular

temperature ranges they tolerate betterthan others and within that range thereis a comfort zone where they’re mostcomfortable.

Every species has a preferred temperaturerange and are most active within thatrange. When temperatures exceed or dropbelow that particular range, they oftenbecome non-responsive and lethargic.Learning the tolerances of those specieswill go a long way toward helping youchoose the right location, time of day, andthe right baits and lures.

For example, water temperatures droppingin the low 60s puts Spotted Sea Trout inhigh spirits, but becomes very perplexingto Snook, Redfish, and Tarpon. On theother hand, temperature in the 80s is finefor Snook, but in the high 80s Redfish,

Tarpon and particularly Sea Trout startgetting a little uncomfortable. When watertemperatures reach into the 90s, as is oftenthe case in Tampa Bay, start looking fordeeper cooler waters.

How fish react to today’s temperatureoften depends on yesterday’s temperatureand even some days before. Gradualtemperature changes over several days orweeks have different effects as opposed torapid temperature changes. Slowerchanges usually result in better long-termfishing, while rapid changes sometimesmotivate only a strong short-term feedingrush.

With clear skies and hot summer days thesuns thermal energy quickly penetratesshallow water allowing dark and grassybottoms to become warmer than the whitesandy ones. The difference between darkand white bottoms may only be one or twodegrees but it can make a difference whenyou’re looking for happy fish. Inexpensivesinking swimming pool thermometers areavailable for use in finding the differentranges at different levels.

LET’S GO FISHING!REDFISH - August should see more red-fish action around the Tampa Bay area.This past month we could find lots of sin-gle and a few small schooling fish, but get-ting them to take live bait with any consis-tency was often difficult. We seemed tohave better luck using cut bait on the bot-tom with the rod in the rod holder. We alsohad decent success using shrimp aroundmangroves and docks. The bay area noto-riously produces good catches of redfish,you just need to find the ones ready to eat.Redfish will push into the Mangrove lined

shores and oyster bars on incoming tides.Live bait normally produces good catchesalong with cut baits. Early morning artifi-cial lures on the grass flats and aroundthe mangroves will offer some excellentexcitement as well. Work both incomingand outgoing tides.

SNOOK – STILL CLOSED… Snook fish-ing will continue strong this month withsome larger fish still in the passes and onthe beaches. Expect those near the passesto congregate near the deeper holes andback eddies. They often appear to havelockjaw but patience seems to pay offwhen looking for larger fish. Snook of allsizes like dead bait, especially the big ones.Simply cut the tail off a threadfin and let itlay on the bottom. Artificial lures usuallyproduce some awesome action and onceyou pass the learning curve, tossingplastics to waiting snook can be loads offun and excitement.

SPOTTED SEA TROUT – Tampa BayTrout have come back like gangbusters. It’snot unusual to catch a limit of nice 18 to19 inch trout for dinner on any grass flatprovided you’re on good incoming or out-going tides. Trout fishing is always fun

by Captain Woody Gore

SpottedSea Trout


especially when you find some larger fish willing to eat.If you’re free-lining white or shrimp and the current is moving,you might need to add # 5 split shot to keep the bait down. Inwater five feet or shallower try a popping cork, but again youmight want to add a little weight to keep the bait down.

TARPON - Tarpon fishing on the beaches has been really goodbut the storm and full moon pushed many off shore to spawn.Now they are heading back. The first week of July my sonCapt. Mike Gore, spotted a huge school about nine miles offshore heading for St. Petersburg.

MACKEREL & BLUEFISH - Tampa Bay has its share of mack-erel and bluefish and fishing this month should be great. Justlook for schools of threadfins, put out a chum bag and holdonto your rod and reel. The real bite is off shore. The mackerelwill actually wear you out to the point of putting your rod andreel down and taking a seat. For some exciting top water actiontry tail hooking your bait and let it work against the current.This forces the bait to the top for some great top water strikes.

Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing813-477-3817

Captain Woody Gore is the areas top outdoor fishing guide. Guidingand fishing the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs,and Bradenton for over fifty years; he offers world class fishing

adventures and a lifetime of memories.

Single or Multi-boat Group Charters are all the same. With years oforganizational experience and access to the areas most experiencedcaptains, Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tourna-ment. Just tell him what you need and it’s done. Visit his website at:

WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM, send an email [email protected] or give him a call at 813-477-3814.

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Despite the doubtfuleconomic future, soar-ing costs of getting

produce to the market place,and a rising jobless rate, folksare still giving to charity andfilling restaurants.

When asked to what he attrib-utes the success of his restau-rants, Copper Bell Café restau-rateur Darren Denington sim-ply said, “I keep giving toworthy causes.”

By this month, in both hisBrandon and Riverviewlocations, there will havebeen 18 events he has dubbed,“Cooking for a Cause.”All proceeds and gratuitiesbenefit a charitable organiza-tion named by a host celebritychef.

Denington invites localcommunity leaders to serveas chefs, greeters and oftenwaiters and waitresses on theday of their fundraiser.

Some of those notable chefswith notable causes have been

Chef’ Earl Lennard, formersupervisor of HillsboroughCounty elections, raised thou-sands for Boys & Girls Clubsof America. HillsboroughCounty School SuperintendentMaryEllen Elia preparedItalian Lasagna, served withCaesar salad and garlic breadbenefitting the HillsboroughEducation Foundation.Former Florida State SenatorTom Lee put on a chef’s hatand cooked Fajitas for hischarity, A Kid's Place. JenHolloway, marketing directorfor Bright House Networks,the sponsor for this year'sevent, prepared her version oftortellini bruschetta for herchosen charity: HARC, whichenables people with disabilitiesin the Tampa Bay area, toname a few of the celebritieswho have cooked for a cause.

In July Tammy Bracewell,executive director and CEO ofthe Greater Brandon Chamberof Commerce, made her thirdappearance as a celebrity chef.“I didn’t really cook this yearbut met guests, waited on

tables and cleaned them.The fun part was collectingall those tips to send kids tocamp at the YMCA. I didsuggest my favorite spaghettifor the menu and all kids seemto love it too. It was so muchfun,” she said.

“We had four trucks runningcatering to offices and a linefor take-out as well as a fullrestaurant. We do a lot ofdelivery when the event isduring regular businesshours,” says Denington.

However, the next event willbe held in the evening withreserved seating times at 4:40,5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. onSaturday, August 25 withTampa Bay Lightening CoachGuy Boucher. There will be alarge buffet dinner with aroast beef carving station anda variety of other meats suchas, roast chicken and porkmedallions, potatoes au gratin,green beans almandine,specialty mac ‘n cheese,Caesar, strawberry saladwith feta cheese, coleslaw,

rolls and dessert for $15.95per person or $8.95 forchildren under 12 yearsof age.

Posted in each restaurant,customers can watch thechanging tabulations of moneyraised for charity. So far, thatamounts to $31, 206.42and Denington expects thatnumber to rise by at least$4,000 come August 25.

“These cooking eventsbenefit so many in thecommunity and are anentertaining way to helpothers…a win, win foreveryone. I just lovedoing this, it’s soworthwhile,” said

Bracewell.

Locations: Brandon,401 S. Parsons Ave.Phone: (813) 681-3354

Riverview11226 Boyette Rd.Phone: (813)671-1100

By Cheryl Kuck


Pesticides have helped growers yieldbountiful harvests for decades.Biopesticides, or pest management

products based on naturally occurring mate-rials, have also been used since they were firstintroduced 50 years ago. Agriculture today,however, faces many challenges — resistanceto pesticides, crop export limitations, sensi-tive environments — that are increasinglymet and solved with biopesticides.

MELOCON®: NEW NEMATICIDETO THE RESCUE

With the phase out of methyl bromide andthe loss of several traditional nematicides,strawberry, potato, and vegetable growerswelcome viable options for nematode control.

MeloCon controls sting, root-knot, burrow-ing nematodes and several other species. Itsactive ingredient is the spores of a naturallyoccurring fungus, Paecilomyces lilacinus, anda highly effective parasite of all stages ofdevelopment of nematodes. Dr. MikeDimock, Director of Field Development andTechnical Services for Certis USA, saidMeloCon is particularly effective on eggs andinfectious juveniles.

MeloCon has minimal impact on the environ-ment and non-target species. “But there isnothing lightweight about MeloCon and howit effects nematodes,” Dr. Dimock says.“Once it is applied to soil, spores of theMeloCon fungus adhere to the bodies ofnematodes as they move through the soil. Thespores germinate, penetrate the nematode andkill it. MeloCon is brutal to nematodes andhighly effective.”

MeloCon can be used as a pre-plant, trans-plant or post-plant treatment. Formulated asa water dispersible granule, MeloCon isapplied by conventional methods, includingchemigation through drip or micro-sprin-klers. Dr. Dimock said the product should

then be watered in. That will help move thespores of MeloCon down to the rhizosphereof the plant’s root where the majority of theplant parasitic nematodes are found.

SOILGARD®: THE FUNGICIDETHAT FIGHTS

“When you apply SoilGard to your soil, youare—in effect—creating a battlefield of fungiversus fungi,” says Dr. Brett Highland ofCertis USA, the manufacturer of SoilGard.

Use SoilGard to battle damping off-diseasesin vegetable and row crops. The active ingre-dient in SoilGard is Trichoderma virens,a naturally occurring soil fungus that isantagonistic to plant pathogenic fungi. “TheSoilGard fungus is aggressive and in competi-tion with fungi that cause damping-offdiseases, I would want T. virens in my cornerevery time,” says Dr. Highland, who serves asEastern U.S. Field Development Manager.

SoilGard employs four modes of action in itsfight against pathogenic fungi. 1) SoilGardproduces a “gliotoxin” that kills and inhibitsthe growth of other fungi, Dr. Highland says.2) SoilGard can also penetrate and consumeparts of other fungi it comes into contactwith. 3) Because it is so aggressive, it growsquickly and out-competes pathogenic fungifor nutrients and living space. 4) EventuallySoilGard occupies so much area around theplant’s root zone, it prevents or delays thereestablishment of the disease-causing fungi.Dr. Highland says to deploy all four modes ofaction, it is best to apply SoilGard to youngplants or transplants.

MELOCON AND SOILGARD: MEETTHE NEEDS OF TODAY’S FARMERS

Both products are ideal selections for resist-ance management programs. They can beused in conventional or organically growncrops. MeloCon and SoilGard are NOPapproved and OMRI® Listed. Residueexempt, the products do not add to MaximumResidue Levels (MRLs), so growers have full

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One day last month I passed by “AllA Bloom Florist” in downtownPlant City. While standing there

looking I reflected back to when I was aboy and this location was a barbershopowned by Mike Sansone. Mike was anItalian immigrant that settled in Plant Cityjust before World War I. He opened abarbershop but left to serve in the War.When he returned, Mike helped form theAmerican Legion Post 26 in Plant City in1919. The Post was later named NormanE. McLeod, who was Plant City’s firstcasualty of World War I, and with whomMike Sansone served.

During his time Mike Sansone was alwaysworking with the youth in Plant City(especially scouting) and the surroundingarea. For his tireless effort for so manyyears the City Commission named thesports complex on north Park road in hishonor.

It seemed like yesterday that I would jumpup in the chair at his barber shop and Mikewould ask me if I was playing baseball,football or what ever sport was in seasonat the time.

He had a couple of barbers that worked inhis shop, too. Can’t remember their names,but I do remember the short, heavy set,bald-headed man was always talkingabout something. The barber had a man inoveralls pushed back in the barber chairand started foaming his face for a shave.The man mentioned the problem he washaving getting a close shave around hischeeks. “I have just the thing,” he said, as

he turned around and picked up a smallwooden ball off the shelf. “Just place thisball between your cheek and gum.” Theman rolled his eyes and did as the barbersaid. After a couple of strokes the manunder the lather said, “What if I swallowthe ball?” “No problem,” he replied,“Just bring it back tomorrow like everyoneelse does.”

Then there’s the story of the priest whowent into a Washington, DC, barbershop,got his hair cut and asked how much heowed. “No charge, Father,” the barbersaid. “I consider it a service to the Lord.”When the barber arrived at his shop thenext morning, he found a dozen smallprayer booklets on the stoop along with athank you note from the priest. A few dayslater a police officer came in. “How muchdo I owe you?” the cop asked after hishaircut. “No charge, officer,” the barberanswered. “I consider it a service to mycommunity.” The next morning the barberfound a dozen doughnuts on the stoopalong with a thank you note from thepolice officer. A few days after that, aSenator walked in for a haircut. “Howmuch do I owe you?” he asked afterward.“No charge,” the barber replied. “Iconsider it a service to my country.” Thenext morning when he arrived at the shop,the barber found a dozen Senators waitingon the stoop.

Did you hear the story of a man and alittle boy that entered a barbershop togeth-er? After the man received the full treat-ment - shave, shampoo and haircut, - heplaced the boy in the chair. “I’m going to

buy a green tie to wear at the partytonight,” he said. “I’ll be back in a fewminutes.” When the boy’s haircut wascompleted the man still hadn’t returned.The barber said, “Looks like your daddy’sforgotten all about you.”

“That wasn’t my daddy,” said the boy.“He just walked up, took me by the handand said, “‘Come on, son, we’re gonna geta free haircut!’”

Coleman Davis, owner of Badcocks inPlant City, told me about the time last yearwhen he was returning from a furnitureconvention in Chicago. (This has nothingto do with a barbershop). Coleman said,“While waiting at the baggage return formy bags I checked my pockets, only to findI did not have my car keys. It was then Irealized I must have left them in car. Myflight arrived early and part of the luggagedid not make the flight I was on. Theyadvised me that the luggage would arriveon a later flight. Having plenty of time, Itook the shuttle to the long term parkingwhere I always parked.” He said, “Al, Ichecked the lot twice, and could not findmy car. I immediately picked up my cellphone and called 911. When I got back tobaggage return about 15 minutes later Idecided to call Sue (his wife).”

“This had to be the most difficult call Ihave ever made.”

“Honey,” I said, “I left my keys in the car,and it has been stolen.”

“There was a period of silence. I thoughtthe call had been dropped. Then Sue said


in a very stern voice, “‘Coleman, I droppedyou off at the Airport.’” “Oh yes, now Iremember.”

“Being somewhat embarrassed I said,‘Well, do you mind coming over and pick-ing me up?’ Sue replied, ‘I will as soon asI convince this policeman that I have notstolen your car!’”

It has been sometime since I have had totake flight. However I spend some time onI-75 traveling to our place in Blairsville,Georgia.

Recently I stopped at the rest area just overthe Florida/Georgia line. Much to my sur-prise I found a clean cubicle and sat down.A few seconds later a voice from the nextcubicle said, “Hi, how are you?”Embarrassed. I said. “I’m doing fine.” Thevoice said, “So what are you up to?” I said,“Just doing the same as you, sitting here!”Next he said, “Can I come over?”Annoyed, I replied, “I’m rather busy rightnow.” The voice next to me said, “Listen,I will have to call you back, there’s an idiotnext door answering all my questions.”

There are a few things I just don’t under-stand. How do those dead bugs get intothose enclosed light fixtures? Why don’t

you ever hear a father-in-law jokes? Whydoes a round pizza come in a square box?What disease did cured ham really have?Once you’re in heaven, do you get stuckwearing the clothes you were buried inforever? Why do men press harder on theTV remote control when they know thebatteries are going dead? Why do peoplesay they ’slept like a baby’ when babieswake up every two hours? If corn oil ismade from corn, and vegetable oil is madefrom vegetables, what is baby oil madefrom? Why is it that the Alphabet Songand Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have thesame tune? And why did you just trysinging those two songs above? Why dothey use sterilized needles for death bylethal injection? Why is it that no matterwhat color bubble bath you use the bub-bles are always white? And Gail Lyons,why do banks charge a fee on ’insufficientfunds’ when they know there is no moneyin the account?

In closing, if you ever wondered how longa minute is, remember it depends on whatside of the bathroom door you’re on. •

d

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www.SouthwesternProduce.comINTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012 27W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M AG A Z I N E .C O M

REAP WHAT YOU SOW

Dry CreekDry Creek

This month we film a new episode of Dry Creek America’sFirst Frontier. I’m really excited about this episode.It’s called Reap What You Sow. It deals with a grandfa-

ther who is raising his two young grandkids. Their mother, hisdaughter, was the Johnny Appleseed of Gardens around DryCreek.

Everybody loved and respected her. Her father is very bitterabout losing her and every garden season struggles with herpassing. In this episode his grandkids initiate a Town Garden.This garden changes lives in Dry Creek.

I was inspired to write this episode of Dry Creek as I drovethrough Central Florida and saw all the fields of plants andgardens. As I wrote this episode I saw the similarities of agarden mirroring our lives. If our garden rows are straight wetake pride in things. If our gardens are left with weeds growingand crooked rows our lives have clutter and chaos. Like agarden our lives need sunshine and just the right balance ofrain. Too much sunshine and a garden will die. Too much rainand the same will happen. Most important, we do “Reap WhatWe Sow.”

In today’s trying financial times people are getting back togrowing a garden. Earth boxes on porches and decks are useddue to lack of space. People are finding that getting their handsinto the soil brings the good out in them. There’s somethinginherit with people and the soil that is good for the soul.

We can learn a lot from the folks that came before us thatworked their gardens. Dry Creek takes place in the 1880s. Yesthings have changed. But some things will always be inside eachof us, though hidden sometimes in today’s fast paced world.

By Les McDowellPhotos courtesy of Linda Constant

Time for family and friends, listening, being compassionatetoward each other and common sense. All of that is planteddeep inside each of us. Just like a garden seed. With just a littlenurturing think of the harvests our lives will generate in 2012.

It is my goal as the creator of Dry Creek to inspire the viewer anduplift them. As folks watch, at times I hope they feel a tug at theirheart. Laugh out loud by sitting back and seeing themselves.Maybe be inspired to pull a weed or so from their gardens. Slowdown for just a time and listen to that voice inside them, that isthem.

Watch for Dry Creek’s new episode coming soon to Dry Creek onBlue Highways TV, Verizon, channel 246 Saturday nights at7:30p.m. Eastern Time. For those of you with Brighthouse pleaserequest BHTV. The deal has been made but they want viewerresponse before they air Dry Creek. •

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


Teaching is a hard job, and any-one who has ever been in thatfield can vouch for its difficulty

level. However, when you’re an Agteacher in an inner city school, teach-ing mostly special needs kids,one would imagine the toil goes upquite a few notches. Incredibly, JessicaCopeland, a Middleton High SchoolAg teacher, doesn’t see things that wayat all.

Jessica loves her job and is passionateabout her students. Her Ag experi-ence began when she was quiteyoung. She says, “My entire life we’vehad a variety of different animals:horses, cows, goats, chickens. I thinkwe even had ducks for a while. Prettymuch any farm animal you can imag-ine. So when I was really little I wasfeeding baby calves and already rid-ing horses. My mom’s an animal loverso she was always bringing homeabandoned cats and dogs and thenwe’d find them new homes. I’ve pret-ty much just always had a love of ani-mals in general I guess.” No doubtthis love fueled her passion for the Agindustry.

Eventually Jessica reached sixth gradeand entered middle school. Thatgrade level includes a student’s firstopportunity to choose an elective, orfield of interest. Jessica says, “When Istarted middle school, of course Ipicked Ag for my elective but ourteacher went on maternity leave so wedidn’t have an Ag program. They putall the Ag students in other classes.”Some people would have just chosenanother path but when Jessica got tohigh school she got right back into Agclasses. She explains, “I went toArmwood and starting from myfreshman year the officers includedme and got me involved in CDEs andthen for the rest of my high schoolcareer I was an officer in our FFAchapter.”

At that time Jessica thought she knewwhat she wanted to do with her life.She says, “My junior year in highschool, when I first started working, Iworked at a vet’s office because Ithought I wanted to be a vet andquickly discovered that I didn’t doneedles very well.” Good thing sherealized that issue before she startedinvesting her college years in a field

she wasn’t equipped for. So whatthen? She continues, “We’d just got-ten a new Ag teacher that year whowas very young and I could see howmuch she enjoyed her job and that’skind of what helped me decide Iwanted to be an Ag teacher. So then Igraduated and I went through HCCfor two years and I did my secondtwo at UF. I actually went to the UFPlant City campus.”

Jessica did half her internship atRiverview High School where shesays, “I taught one period of TMHstudents, that’s trainably mentallyhandicap.” This was her first taste ofworking with special needs kids. Shethen finished her internship at PlantCity High School while Mrs. Piercewas on maternity leave. Jessica start-ed looking for a job at that point butadmits that it was a challenge due tothe fact that there weren’t many Agteacher positions available. However,an opportunity presented itself whenshe got a call from the Ag Supervisorfor Hillsborough County. That phonecall resulted in an interview atMiddleton High School.

Jessica elaborates, “The job was formost of the day teaching agricultureto the TMH students. It was my expe-rience at Riverview that made mecomfortable with that so then I gotoffered the job and my first year atMiddleton two-thirds of the day I hadthe TMH students in Ag and then restof the day I taught credit recoverywhich is kind of like IMPACT. It wasmy first year at Middleton, with myTMH students, that I discovered mylove for the special needs kids.” A lotof teachers will claim such love, butJessica’s sincerity is evident in hervoice and the stories she shares.

She’s in a unique position, not only isshe teaching Ag in the inner city, butshe’s also teaching special needs stu-dents. Joyfully she continues, “Thispast school year I still had most of theday with the TMH kids but then Ihad a couple periods with more tradi-tional Ag students. Teaching myTMH students is probably the high-light of my day. We do so many proj-ects that they’ve never done before.My dog comes to school with meevery day and my students take careof her and we have a rabbit that they

By Ginny Mink

UNIQUE SITUATION,DEVOTED TEACHER

JessicaCopeland


Dale McClellanSwisher Sweets/Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmerof the Year for 2012 and former president of the

Hillsborough County Farm Bureau

W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M AG A Z I N E .C O M INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012 31

take care of. They grow strawber-ries every year. With my TMHkids we also compete in the AgAbilities Competition and theyeven get to drive the lawnmowerin the competition!” No doubther excitement and enthusiasmabout this opportunity rubs offon her students, some of whomare incapable of the most basicpre-school age activities.

She recalls, “Last year we had astudent named Anthony whodoesn’t write his name, couldn’tcolor in the lines, but at the end ofthe school year when we werelearning how to drive the lawn-mower, to see his face when hewas driving, was enough to makeevery day great!” She emphasizesagain, “He couldn’t write hisname but that boy figured outthat when the lawnmower startedgoing towards the cones he need-ed to turn the wheel the otherway, and in my world, that wasjust a huge deal!” Still excited sheadds, “My students take care ofthe animals so after two years see-ing my students clean the rabbit’scage, feed her, water her and takecare of her without anybody’shelp, that’s amazing to me!”

Jessica does teach some tradition-al Ag students and she brags onthem as well. “The past two yearsMiddleton has been kind of in a

transitional period going from amagnet Ag program to a tradi-tional Ag program, and I wouldsay our FFA members have beenworking really hard to make sureMiddleton stays a quality chapter.This past school year we had ourvery first student compete in anational contest for the Ag sci-ence fair. We had a garden formy traditional, neighborhood,Middleton students and seeingthem out in their garden beingproud and taking pictures withtheir plants, that was somethingspecial because these kids knewnothing about agriculture whenthey started. This year we’re actu-ally going to start a fish projectand the kids are going to growfish from babies to adults.”

Obviously Jessica has high hopesfor her students. She finishes,“My days at school are amazingbecause I get to help kids findsomething they’re good at andthat they enjoy and that they cando in their future! One of themost important things that I hopestudents get out of their agricul-ture class is leadership skills thatthey can use regardless of whatkind of career they have.”Certainly she’s got her work cutout for her, but her demeanorproves that she thinks it’s worthit! •

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What a crazy month it hasbeen! Since my team and I

were elected at the end of June itfeels like we've been going nonstopto learn how to best serve FloridaFFA. State Convention itself was anamazing experience as I got to seethe energy that the members of ourassociation brought to this excitingweek! Also Area 5 was well repre-sented, bringing home multiplestate speaking titles among other accomplishments!

A week after State Convention we traveled to North Carolina to participate inthe National Leadership Conference for State Officers. At NLCSO we workedon team building and trust as well as how to create and facilitate workshops.After NLCSO we traveled back to Gainesville for BLAST-OFF training. Thistraining is more individual and helps us learn everything from our strengths ona team to speech delivery and even etiquette!

Finally most of us were able to take a week off as the State President ClaytonWillis and State Secretary Matthew Cantrell traveled to Washington DC to par-ticipate in State Presidents Conference. This conference is very important, as itis a major facet of the National Delegate Process, which is how changes aremade in our organization. Tomorrow we will be leaving to spend a week inIowa and a tour of Production Agriculture!

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The U.S. Small Business Administration(SBA) has added Hillsborough Countyas a primary county to the disaster

declaration for Tropical Storm Debby. Thismeans that eligible homeowners, renters,businesses of all sizes, and non-profit organi-zations in Hillsborough County that wereaffected by Tropical Storm Debby are noweligible to apply for physical and economicinjury disaster loans from the SBA’s disasterassistance program. Previously, only busi-nesses and non-profits were eligible to applyfor SBA economic injury disaster loans.

Disaster loans up to $200,000 now are avail-able to homeowners to repair or replace dis-aster-damaged or destroyed real estate.Homeowners and renters are eligible up to$40,000 to repair or replace disaster-dam-aged or destroyed personal property.

Businesses and private non-profit organiza-tions of any size may borrow up to $2 millionto repair or replace disaster-damaged ordestroyed real estate, machinery and equip-ment, inventory, and other business assets.The SBA may increase a loan up to 20 per-cent of the total amount of disaster damageto real estate and/or leasehold improvements,as verified by SBA, to make improvementsthat lessen the risk of property damage byfuture disasters of the same kind.

For small businesses, small agricultural coop-eratives, small businesses engaged in aquacul-ture and most private non-profit organiza-tions of all sizes, the SBA offers EconomicInjury Disaster Loans to help meet workingcapital needs caused by the disaster.Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance isavailable regardless of whether the businesssuffered any physical property damage.

Interest rates are as low as 1.938 percent forhomeowners and renters, 3 percent fornon-profit organizations and 4 percent forbusinesses with terms up to 30 years. Loanamounts and terms are set by the SBAand are based on each applicant’s financialcondition.

To be considered for all forms of disasterassistance, residents should first register withthe Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA) by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362),(TTY) 800-462-7585 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing.

The filing deadline to return applications forphysical property damage is Sept 4, 2012.The deadline to return economic injury appli-cations is April 3, 2013.

After registering with FEMA, residents canaccess an SBA Electronic Loan Application(ELA) via SBA’s secure website athttps://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/ and apply.Disaster survivors do not have to wait oninsurance to be settled before applying to SBA.

Questions about the electronic loan applica-tion, details on the locations of local DisasterRecovery Centers, and information about theloan application process also is available bycalling the SBA Customer Service Center at800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deafand hard-of-hearing) or by sending an e-mailto [email protected].

Individual homeowners suffering homedamages also can seek assistance fromHillsborough County's HomeownerRehabilitation Program by calling

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The most popular fruit in America,bananas, are grown year-round inFlorida. Few plants thrive in the

heat of an August day in Florida, butbananas grow well in tropical andsubtropical weather throughout differentparts of the state. The banana plant is inthe same family as the lily and orchid andcan grow 10-25 feet tall. The fruit isgrouped in clusters or “hands” of 10-20bananas.

Although grocery stores most commonlycarry the “yellow Cavendish” variety,there are many more varieties grown inFlorida including Apple Banana, HuaMoa, Lady’s Finger, and DwarfCavendish. Sweet and creamy, bananas arebrimming with vitamins, minerals, nutri-ents, and antioxidants. They are also veryportable fruits since they come in theirown peels, which keep the inner fruit cleanand dry. Florida bananas make a quick,nutritious snack wherever you go!

NUTRITIONAL PROFILEAlthough bananas are creamy, they are vir-tually fat-free. They are also low in sodiumand rich in potassium. According to theUnited States Department of Agriculture(USDA) National Nutrient Database forStandard Reference, one medium banana(118 g) contains 105 calories, 1.3 g of pro-tein, 0.4 g of fat, 27 g of carbohydrate, and3.1 g of fiber. It provides 22% of the DailyReference Intake for vitamin B6, 17% forvitamin C, 16% for manganese, 12% fordietary fiber, and 12% for potassium. Theyalso contain notable amounts of calcium,copper, iodine, iron, phosphorous, zinc andvitamin A.

PROTECT AGAINST

HEART DISEASEBananas are famous for their high potassi-um content, about 467 mg in a singlebanana! High potassium coupled with the

low sodium content of bananas (1mg/banana) is beneficial for maintaining nor-mal blood pressure and optimal heart func-tion. Several research studies have estab-lished the beneficial effects of potassiumfoods in effectively lowering blood pres-sure. Additionally, people who ate foodshigh in fiber and magnesium, as well asfoods high in potassium, had a lower risk ofstroke. The potassium in bananas can alsoenhance bone health. Some studies suggestthat potassium can counteract some of theeffects of high sodium diets and slow therate of calcium loss from bone.

PROMOTE DIGESTIVE HEALTHEating bananas and other foods highin fiber can help decrease the risk ofcoronary heart disease and help preventatherosclerosis. Bananas contain bothinsoluble fiber that adds bulk and speedup transit time through the digestive tract,as well as soluble fiber that lowers choles-terol levels.

Bananas are also famous for their stom-ach-soothing effects. They act as a naturalantacid and protect the stomach liningfrom ulcers and acid damage. Bananascontain substances that encourage thestomach lining to produce a thicker mucusbarrier that protects it from stomachacids.

Additionally, bananas are extremely easyto digest. They are part of the BRAT(Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) dietused during illnesses that require easilydigestible foods. This fruit can help easeboth constipation and diarrhea, normaliz-ing the GI tract. Other nutrients inbananas can help promote nutrientabsorption from other foods.

ENJOY BETTER VISIONWith very high levels of vitamin A and C,bananas join the ranks of carrots as an eye

promoting food. High fruit intake appearsto be related to a lower risk of age-relatedmacular degeneration. Data from a largestudy of over 100,000 men and womenindicated that eating three or moreservings of fruit per day lowered the riskof age-related macular degeneration(ARMD) by 36 percent, compared withpeople who ate less than 1.5 servingsof fruit per day. ARMD is the primarycause of vision loss in older adults.Researchers concluded that the vitaminsand carotenoids in fruit, such as bananas,were responsible for the protective effecton the development of ARMD.

Vitamin C also supports the body’simmune system in its ability to fight infec-tions and viruses, and may possibly short-en the duration and intensity of a cold.Additionally, this vitamin is involved inkeeping capillaries, gums, and skin healthyand supple.

HOW TO SELECT AND STOREBananas are harvested by the bunch whenthey are still green but plump. Unripebananas can be stored in a cool, shadyplace. Ripening can be expedited by plac-ing bananas in a closed paper bag, wherethe ethylene gas can stimulate ripening.As bananas ripen, more of their starchesare converted to sugars, and they becomesweeter. If you’re going to use bananasright away for eating out-of-hand, choosefully ripe, yellow fruit. Overly ripe, speck-led bananas are great for banana breadand muffins because they are very sweetand soft and can be easily mashed.

Ripe bananas can be stored at room tem-perature for several days. While ripebananas can be refrigerated, their peelsturn from a pretty yellow to black. Ripebananas can also be dried or frozen forlater use.

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


HOW TO ENJOYBananas are delicious eaten straight out-of-hand. They also canbe sliced and used in fruit salads or frozen whole for a creamypopsicle-like treat. Other ways to enjoy them include:

• Combine with milk and frozen yogurt in the blender for abanana milkshake

• Mash or slice with peanut butter for a PB and banana sandwich

• Dice bananas and add to oatmeal or cereal

• Slice lengthwise and fill with ice cream for a banana split

• Use mashed ripe bananas for bread, cookies, and muffinsto replace part of the oil

• Slice banana thickly, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar and putunder the broiler until top is browned

• Cut banana in half lengthwise, brush lightly with butter,and grill

• Puree with strawberries and other fruit for a smoothie or asa fruit sauce for ice cream or yogurt

• Sautee with butter and brown sugar for an almost instant dessert

With so many ways to enjoy this delicious fruit, eat more freshFlorida bananas today! These locally grown treats are sweet andcreamy and are easy to take with you anywhere you go.

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Twelve members from the Lennard FFA

Chapter attended the 84th Annual Florida

State FFA Convention, held the last week of

June in Orlando. The State Champion Vegetable

Judging team, consisting of Kyle Bowman, Rey

Penaloza, Roger Smith and Amber Wiggins, was

recognized on stage. Randall Casey represented the

third place State Citrus Judging team during the

awards presentation. Madison Brown also received

an award for her third place State OH Demo, in the

Artistic Arrangement category. Rebecca Knowles

and Tiffany Conard participated in two leadership

workshops presented by Jason Troendle of

Minnesota, National FFA Secretary, and the

University of Florida’s Collegiate FFA. Kyle Bowman

(Turfgrass Management), Randall Casey (Diversified

Horticulture) and Rey Penaloza (Specialty Animal

Production) were announced as State Proficiency

Winners for their outstanding Supervised

Agricultural Experience Programs. Senior FFA

members Kyle Bowman, Madison Brown, Randall

Casey, Rey Penaloza and Josh Stanaland received

the State FFA Degree which is the highest honor

bestowed upon any member of the Florida FFA

Association. Lennard FFA members Kyle Bowman,

Madison Brown, Randall Casey, Casey Fitz, Rey

Penaloza and Josh Stanaland served on Courtesy

Corps which assisted convention staff backstage.

State Conventionby Rebecca Knowles


By Robert H. Wells

The University of Florida’s School of Forest Resources andConservation received a $50,000 donation from the Florida

Farm Bureau to help rebuild a learning center destroyed by fire inJuly 2011.

The school, part of UF’s Institute of Food and AgriculturalSciences, is now halfway to the fundraising goal of $1.5 million forrebuilding the center, located on Lake Mize in the Austin CaryForest northeast of Gainesville.

“We are proud to be a major contributor to the rebuilding of theAustin Cary learning center,” said John Hoblick, Florida FarmBureau president. “Education is one facet of what Farm Bureau isall about, and this center will offer a quality learning environmentas well as a place for university and community functions.”

Jack Payne, UF’s senior vice president for agriculture and naturalresources, said “Florida Farm Bureau has always been a stalwartsupporter of IFAS, and this is great example of achieving sharedgoals through our long-standing partnership.”

The school’s director, Tim White, called the donation a reflection ofthe partnership between Florida Farm Bureau and IFAS.

“And we hope that they will use the new building often for theirevents,” White said.

Officials said the fundraising goal may be met by year's end, andthey’d like to break ground on a new learning center by March2013.

The rebuilt facility will give forestry faculty and students, as well asthe public, a venue for enjoying and learning about the forest whileattending meetings, classes or special events.

In May, Plum Creek Foundation gave $75,000 toward rebuildingthe center. Other sources of funding have included companies andprivate donors.

Administrators have set a target of drawing 25,000 visitors eachyear to the center once it’s complete, including UF students, faculty,professionals, K-12 students, municipal and county governmentofficials and the public. •

Farm Bureau Helps UF/IFASGet Closer To Fundraising Goal For

New Learning Center


My Fiancé, April, and I go hikingevery weekend and have rarelycome home with more than an

occasional mosquito bite and sometimespleasantly sore feet. This past month however,on more than one occasion, when we removedour hiking boots, we found we had picked upsome unwelcome guests. Ticks are fairly com-mon in Florida, though I can honestly say theyhave never been a consistent aspect of our hik-ing trips and certainly not in the quantities wehave experienced recently. On one trip wecounted more than 15 before we were sure wefound them all. The ticks we found are knownas the Lone Star Tick, and have unique quali-ties that warrant a closer look.

The Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma ameri-canum) is not so large that it is named afterTexas, nor is it a species strictly associatedwith The Lone Star State, in fact, this tick isone of the most abundant in the United Statesranging from Texas to Iowa in the Midwestand east to the coast and as far north asMaine. The common name Lone Star comesfrom the females distinguishing white dotresembling a lone star. Ticks are related to spi-ders and mites. The Lone Star Tick belongs tothe family Ixodidae that characterizes hardbodied ticks. Ticks have four stages of devel-opment, (egg, larval, nymph and adult) andneed a blood meal to complete each stage.Although the ticks will typically take a bloodmeal from a different host type at each stage,I’m not so sure they would refuse a bloodmeal from any host that happened by if vari-ety is scarce.

We commonly associate ticks with Lyme dis-ease. Interestingly, this association is not asaccurate for the Lone Star Tick. According toresearch cited in Medical and VeterinaryEntomology (Mar, 2005) the saliva in theLone Star Tick inactivates the bacteria respon-sible for Lyme disease, and thus, is anextremely unlikely vector. This does not meanhowever, that this tick is not dangerous, itabsolutely can be dangerous and for some, theresults may seem to be a fate worse than deathitself. The Lone Star Tick has a reputation ofcreating an allergy to meat and has recentlyresurfaced in the media described as a“weapon in the war on meat”. Though theimplication of leveraging an insect for anypolitical agenda is an entertaining one, thisinsect’s behavior has not likely changedrecently and it’s not likely that its reputation

of turning meat eating mammals into vegetar-ians would have gone un-noticed for long.

According to a manuscript published by theNational Institute of Health, researchers sug-gest that the bite of The Lone Star Tick(Amblyomma americanum) is the cause of adelayed allergic reaction to red meat thatcould include severe anaphylaxis. Researchersclaim that the bite of the Lone Star Tick setsoff the production of an antibody that bindsto certain sugars, alpha-gal (galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose). These alpha-gal sugars are saidto be found in all non-primate mammals (Pigs,Deer, Cow, Cats, Dogs etc.). Apparently, theonly mammals that lack the enzyme that leadsto the production of the alpha-gal string ofsugars are humans, old world monkeys andgreat apes. When this alpha-gal antibody ispresent in the body, and meat is eaten, themeat triggers the release of histamine causinghives and anaphylaxis.

There are reports of a growing number ofcases in which humans are affected by this tickbut researchers admit they do not know themechanics of this reaction to offer more thana subjective conclusion. Dr Thomas Platts-Mills and his colleague Dr Scott Commins,assistant professor of medicine at theUniversity of Virginia in Charlottesville,published their research in 2009 claiming thatpatients that have alpha-gal sugars have hadat least one tick bite, however, a University ofVirginia resource page for mammalian meatallergies states that it is not believed this aller-gy can be shared by donating blood. It wouldbe interesting to learn how this tick wouldaffect old world monkeys such as baboonsthat are known to have a taste for meat thatsometimes includes young mammals. Thepublished research indicates that this tick willcreate a potentially deadly allergic reaction tothe consumption of meat, but there are nopublished reports of how this tick affects meateating primates that presumably would gathermore ticks than a weekend hiker. Continuedresearch on this insect will be interesting.If presumptions are correct, this will be oneof our most fascinating insects and perhapsprovide insight in the mechanics of biologicadaptation and natural selection. If we canunderstand how microorganisms can causea complete change in an organisms naturalfeeding pattern, imagine the potential for pestcontrol. •

By Sean GreenA Closer Look Looking for us?

Find us in yourneighborhood...

Southside Farm & Pet Supply3014 Jim Redman Pkwy.

Plant City, FLPhone: 813.752.2379

Note: This is just a sample of our distribution points.We’ll list di�erent locations each month.

MAGAZINE

®

Crescent Jewelers1514 S. Alexander St.


Johnson’s BBQ1407 MLK Blvd.


Sisters & Company104 E. Reynolds St.


The Hay Depot1001 S. Alexander St.


The Catering Company115. E. Reynolds St.


Cowboys Western World120 S.R. 60 E.Plant City, FL

Phone: 813.650.3888

Rick’s Meats10252 S.R. 39 South

Lithia, FLPhone: 813.737.6776

The Lone Star Tick


Your dog is your friend, your partner, your defender. You are itslife, love, and leader. Your dog will be yours, faithful and true,to the last beat of its heart. You owe it to your dog to be wor-

thy of such devotion. So why not feed it a healthy diet? In today’ssociety, we are not the only ones who aren’t eating healthy, so are ourpets. So what is considered a healthy diet for a dog? Nowadays, moreand more pet owners are moving toward a natural diet or a grain-freediet. So what’s the difference and how are they better than what youwould buy at the grocery story? Jenn Fadal, pet wellness expert andowner of Wag Pet Boutique in Tampa, has been answering petowner’s questions about what to feed their pets for the last sevenyears. Wag is a holistic pet market and they focus on all natural foodand supplements for dogs and cats. Fedal also has a website,www.jennfadal.com, where she offers advice on an array of topicsfrom pet health to pet safety. She will tell you there is a big differencebetween natural food and the food we buy at the grocery store.

“Natural dog food is not going to have un-natural preservatives,”Fadal said. “The makers of natural dog food will use Vitamin Eor mixed vitamins that preserve the food.” There also won’t beadded sugar or salt. If there is, it may only be a little. She says theingredients are better and they are going to have a lot of meat forprotein instead of corn or gluten. Highly processed foods, which areproduced under extreme heat and pressure, as well as diets thatcontain artificial chemical preservatives and hard-to-digestby-products, can gradually deplete an animal’s immune system overtime and actually make your dog more susceptible to long term healthproblems. Chemical preservatives in particular, such as Ethoxyquin,BHA, and BHT, have been directly linked to an increased incidence ofcancer in pets.

In comparison, a minimally processed diet containing real wholefoods, that are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and aminoacids that any living creature needs in order to remain strong, healthyand resilient to disease. Just as we would not expect to maintain opti-mal health on a long-term daily diet of junk food, nor can our pets.

A grain-free diet is similar to what a dog would eat if they were in thewild. In the wild your dog’s diet would consist of primarily meatbased proteins, and the occasional fruit or vegetable. Grain was con-sumed very little. Grain has in fact been found to cause or irritatesome pets’ allergies. Grain is also very hard to digest especially inaged pets. Some of the benefits of feeding grain free (not limited to):Shiny coat, decreased allergies, healthy skin, and increased appetite inpicky eaters, increased energy, and ease in passing of stools, reducedstools and decrease in weight for obese dogs.

“Grain-free is better in my opinion becauseit is feeding your dog more of an ancestraldiet,” Fadal said.

Amy Howland is the Co-Director/Co-Founder of Dogma Pet Rescuein Tampa. She is also a foster mom to an Italian Greyhound named,Iggy Pop. He came to Dogma after his owner surrender him and hewas in a deplorable condition. He was very thin and his teeth wererotting out. He also had a cancerous lump at the base of his tail whichresulted in his tail being amputated this past November. Howlandcontacted Fadal to see about changing Iggy Pop’s diet. Iggy Pop wasput on a limited ingredient diet which improved his health.

“I noticed right away improvements in his coat and his skin lookedgreat,” Howland said, “He was much more vibrant and he had moreenergy.”

How do you decided which diet options are right for your dog?Consult your veterinarian for specific diet recommendations or ingre-dient and nutrient content that is best-suited for your dog’s age andhealth. There is no “best dog food” and it comes down to making amatch between the individual characteristics of your dog, yourlifestyle and your budget. At the end of the day, your dog is the bestjudge of what they like. For more information about Dogma PetRescue, you can visit them on the web at www.DogmaRescue.org.Wag Pet Boutique is located at 304 E. Davis Blvd. in Tampa, Fl.You can also visit Wag on the web wwwwww..wwaaggooffttaammppaa..ccoomm or call813-258-9181.

Healthy DogsBy Libby Hopkins

Pictured above:

“Iggy Pop came to Dogma Pet Rescue in Tampaafter his owner surrender him. He was in adeplorable condition. He was very thin and histeeth were rotting out. He also had a cancerouslump at the base of his tail which resulted in histail being amputated this past November. Hisfoster mom, Amy Howland, contacted Jenn Fadal,pet wellness expert and owner of Wag PetBoutique in Tampa, Fl. to see about changing hisdiet to improve his health.”

48 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012 49

TropicalTrifle

Florida Cream CheeseSpread With Sun-driedTomatoes and Greek Olives

Recipes Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agricluture

INGREDIENTSCUSTARD3 cups skim or evaporated milk2 teaspoons orange zest, grated5 eggs (2 yolks and 3 whole eggs)1 cup sugar1/4 cup cornstarch

SYRUP1/2 cup water1/4 cup sugar2 teaspoons orange zest, grated2 tablespoons orange-flavoredliqueur or cream sherry

LAYERING2 cups angel, yellow or pound cake cubes1 cup orange sections1 cup mango, chopped, cubes1 cup papaya, chopped, cubes1 cup banana, sliced1 cup whipped cream orreduced-fat whipped topping

PREPARATION

Pour milk into a heavy saucepan and add orangezest. While milk is heating combine sugar andcornstarch then add egg yolks and whole eggs;stir until mixture is combined thoroughly. Whenmilk begins to boil add egg mixture and whip.Cook over low heat until custard mixture comesto a boil. Pour immediately into shallow containerand cover with plastic wrap directly on custardmixture to prevent forming a skin. Refrigerate.While custard is cooling prepare a syrup withwater, sugar and orange zest. Cook for 5 minutes.Cool and add liquor or sherry. In a small triflebowl or any glass bowl begin layering ingredients.Brush bread cubes with syrup mixture, then addfruit and custard. For best results refrigerateovernight. Top with whipped topping and serve.

PREPARATION

Place sun-dried tomatoes in small bowl.Pour enough boiling water over tomatoes to cover.Let tomatoes stand until soft, about 10 minutes.Drain. Pat tomatoes dry and chop finely.Mix cream cheese and sour cream in mediumbowl until smooth. Mix in olives, onion andsun-dried tomatoes. Season to taste with saltand pepper. (Can be prepared 2 days ahead.Cover and refrigerate. Let stand at roomtemperature 1 hour before serving.)

INGREDIENTS

12 medium sun-dried tomatoes

(not packed in oil)

1 8-ounce package cream cheese,

room temperature

2 tablespoons sour cream

1/2 cup black olives

(preferably Kalamata) chopped and pitted

1/4 cup red onion, chopped

RECIPES


Robert Oakleysmokes ribs and chickens

fresh everyday!

5511

INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012 53W W W. I N T H E F I E L D M A G A Z I N E .C O M

John Stickles grew up in San Diego Countyin Southern California. His father andgrandfather grew cabbage, tomatoes and

strawberries. He was raised on the agriculturalland that they farmed and worked. By the mid-90s John became quite aware of the fact thathis agricultural endeavors, growing raspberriesat the time, were not being supported by thecounty, rather a shift towards development hadoccurred. He believed that the agriculturalprospects there were rapidly declining giventhe increases in the cost of water and land.

In 1997, John was made aware of an opportu-nity in Dover with Florida Pacific Farms. Hemade a couple of trips to check things out.At that time he was not only offered a positionbut ownership as well. Thusly he discussedthings with his family, his wife, Kim and hisdaughter, Helen, and they agreed to make themove from California to Dover. John felt thatFlorida Pacific was a good fit and it gave himan opportunity at a solid future. In fact,he called it an “enjoyable and rewardingexperience.”

John believed that people like to live whereplants grow and he saw Florida as an excep-tional example therein. He recognized Florida’sability to produce a number of crops and wasquite focused on best management practices toensure high yield, resource preservation andcost control. He was a business man, a farmerand an environmentalist all wrapped into ahuman being that was widely respected andwill be terribly missed.

John touched the lives of many people and as atribute to him several of his friends andacquaintances shared their thoughts on hischaracter and personage. Their emotions andsentiment will be conveyed here:

TTeedd CCaammppbbeellll, Executive Director of theFlorida Strawberry Grower’s Association, says,“The persona of John Stickles could light upa room, and the only thing that exceeded hischarisma was his passion for constantimprovement. That passion drove John tobe an obsessive innovator with other grow-ers eagerly following his leadership toimproved methodologies. He was graciousin sharing his depth of knowledge, and hisquality orientation always spurred ourindustry to excel. John’s contributions toFlorida Farm Bureau, Florida Fruit &Vegetable Association, Florida StrawberryGrower’s Association and other such organ-izations allowed him to help agriculture inso many ways that reach far beyond thefarm’s boundaries.”

Quiet Sincerity

A Tribute to John Stickles

By Ginny Mink


JJuuddii WWhhiittssoonn, Executive Director of the Florida Farm Bureau,added, “John served on the Hillsborough County FarmBureau Board from 2001-2007. During that time he servedon several in house committees. He also served on the FFBState Vegetable Advisory Committee from 2003-2005 andagain in 2010. John was usually very quiet during boardmeetings but when he spoke it was always important andeveryone listened. I used to think he was like EF Huttoncommercials, when John spoke, everyone listened. I don’thave any funny antidotes or stories, but I had all the respectin the world for John. He was very respected in the indus-try and in our board room. He will be very missed.”

AAllvviinn FFuuttcchh recalled, “I leased my property to GlennWilliamson in 1996 to grow strawberries. He told me hehad some friends that were in California. John Sticklesshowed up from California and it wasn’t long before I’drather John come around than Glenn. John was a realgentleman, and I guess one of the best people in business Iever knew in the field of agriculture. He was honest andfair in the game of life. It wasn’t sixteen years later and hewas running the whole show for Florida Pacific, as well asa lot of other things. He was the kind of man that youcould ask a question and you certainly did not get the runaround. He was very honest and direct.”

DDeennnniiss CCaarrllttoonn reiterates Judi Whitson’s sentiment. He says,“I served on the board with him at the Farm Bureau. Thething about John was that he didn’t say a whole bunch, he

was a quiet man, but when he spoke it was meaningful andimportant!”

MMiicchheellllee WWiilllliiaammssoonn, who also served on the board with John,sniffles and replies, “He was a really, really good friend to alot of people and he was a good advocate for Florida agri-culture. He’s going to be missed a lot.”

EEllaaiinnee HHaarrrriiss at Driscoll’s, shared a seemingly unanimous senti-ment about John, “He’ll be deeply missed. He was a wonder-ful person. He was very innovative and forward thinkingand a major contributor to Hillsborough County agricul-ture, the strawberry industry in particular.”

John was a gifted man, well respected, honest and sincere andthose who knew him held him with high regard. While most peo-ple are aware of his agriculture involvement, he was also aPorsche lover. JJoohhnn RReekkeerr, Secretary and Membership Chair ofthe Porsche 356 Florida Owners Group, shared, “John justbecame active in the last year. He had a very special car, aSpeedster, which is a very popular model today, a 1955Speedster that he restored. We were happy to have himbring it to the events. I know he got an award last fall. Healways seemed upbeat and a little laidback but was verypersonable. He will be missed.”

In closing, LLiissaa LLoocchhrriiddggee, Director of Public Affairs forthe Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association shared, “John’s pass-ing is an immense loss for his family, friends and Florida


agriculture. There are so many thingsto remember him for: his easy smile,his openness, and his thoughtfulleadership in the specialty cropindustry. John was extremely knowl-edgeable but at the same time unas-suming. He and Kim have been sucha great team through the years. Ourthoughts and prayers are with her,their daughter, Helen, and the rest ofthe family.”

John was 57 when he passed away, July26, 2012. He is survived by his wife,Kim and daughter, Helen. Those wishingto make memorial contributions “InMemory of John Stickles” can contactthe FFVA Specialty Crop Foundation,P.O. Box 948153, Maitland, FL 32794.


Driscoll’s Team Honors Memory of

John has been a true leader in his business andin our industry, providing tremendous mentorship to

the Florida Pacific Farms and Driscoll’s team members.His forward-thinking in production systems as well

as farm business management and eagernessto trial and research new ways has been

ground-breaking. The learning’s from this will bea key part of future berry production in Florida.

John will be sorely missed by us all andwe will always honor his memory.

John Stickles

KYLE ROBERT AMMERMAN, age 25, Plant City Died on Saturday,July 28, 2012. He was born December, 1986 in Tampa, and the sonof Nicholas Ammerman and Margaret Parris. Surviving are fiancee'Mandy Owens, daughter, Haylie Lynn Ammerman, brother, TrentonAmmerman, paternal grandparents, Donald and Carol Ammerman,and maternal grandparent, Martha Parrish.

BRUCE CRUMPTON, 82, of Plant City died July 28, 2012. He wasborn August 11, 1929, to the late Wesley and Mildred DolloffCrumpton. He was preceded in death his first wife, Clara H.Crumpton, and brother Roland Crumpton. He is survived by hisbeloved wife of 21 years, Ann Palmer Crumpton, daughter, NancySue (Bill) Gerhard, step children Rick, Gary, Arthur, and JohnGreen, Debra Rivett, grandchildren William and Alison, 4 stepgrandchildren, Kade, Kenzie, Sidney and Andrew.

DONNA JEAN SPROUSE, age 64, of Plant City, died August 2,2012, at her home. She was born December 7, 1947 in Tampa thedaughter of the late Ollie Pick and the Late Mary Russell Pick.Donna Jean was the wife of Jack Sprouse. Survivors are, Jack RaySprouse, son, Olyne Perez and Jacklyne Carter-four grandchildrenand 3 great grand children.

RICKY ERWIN BRADFORD, 50 of Plant City passed away August1, 2012 at the Sun City Center Hospice. He was born February 3,1962. Ricky was the son of the late Robert Bradford and DollyGriffin. Surviving are brother, Michael Griffin, and sister, DonnaAnders.

ELOUISE WILLIAMSON, 85, of the Advent Christian Village,Dowling Park, and Dover, Florida died July 29, 2012. She was bornJanuary 26, 1927, and the last of four daughters and three sons ofWIll and Deb Fletcher. Elouise Williamson as preceded in death byher husband of 52 years, R.J. Williamson of Dover, Florida.Survivors include two sons, Francis Williamson, George Williamson,6 grandchildren,and 4 great grandchildren.

BERTHA K. GASCHLER, age 74, of Plant City died July 30, 2012.She was born August 28, 1937. Bertha was the daughter of the lateAndrew Haili and the late Elizabeth Kinolau Haili. She was the wifeof the late William Gaschler. Survivors include three sons, AndrewJoseph, Robert Allen and David Wayne Gaschler, daughters,Debra Ann Thompson and Marlene Leiani Shover, 10 grand-children, 6 great grandchildren.

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4His an organization with avast history. Yet, individual4H clubs seem to come and

go. Rarely does one find a club with as richa storyline as that backing the Kids &Kritters 4H Club. Sally Alford Manning isat its helm and she’s got quite a uniquestory as well. She says, “I grew up just eastof Tampa on a couple of acres. My fatherpurchased horses for my brother, sister andI and later added a few dairy calves from afamily friend. In the mid-1960s he bought10 acres on McIntosh Road with the inten-tion of building a home and moving thefamily there.

Sadly, things did not turn out the way he’dhoped. She continues, “The family enjoyedworking together on weekends clearingand fencing the land. Unfortunately, justbefore construction on the house was dueto begin, my father suddenly passed away,which put an end to the dream.” For somepeople, such a great tragedy would pushthem away from things associated with theloss. Sally, however, forged onward and inthe midst of that determination she foundsome wonderful supporters.

She explains, “The family that my fatherbought calves from introduced me to theirneighbor, Phyllis White, when I was 13years old. Phyllis knew I enjoyed ridingand asked if I was interested in riding herHalf Arabian. Of course, like any younggirl, I jumped at the chance. Later, Phyllisarranged for me to begin taking ridinglessons and showing in local, as well asArabian, horse shows. As my friendshipwith Phyllis grew, she became a mentor

and was like a second mother to me.”People come into our lives for a variety ofreasons, but it is apparent that part ofPhyllis’ role in Sally’s life was to inspireand encourage her.

Phyllis was a dog trainer and owned herown boarding kennel in Valrico. Shehelped found the Purebred Dog Tent at theState Fair when it moved to its currentlocation in the 1970s. Shortly thereaftershe started the Hillsborough County 4HDog Project and then she created the 4Hand Youth Dog Shows at the Florida StateFair. At that time there weren’t any dogbased 4H clubs. However, as time passedand other 4H dog clubs appeared, theyadded the name, Kids & Kritters.

While all this was going on, Sally says,“The Saddlebred trainer I took lessonsfrom, Peggy Lair, offered me a job at whatwas then, Brandon Stables. For severalyears during high school I worked for anArabian trainer, Buck Grass. While incollege, I decided to marry another horsetrainer and together we opened our owntraining stable specializing in trainingArabians and their amateur owners andjunior exhibitors. I ended up traininghorses for more than 30 years.”

She adds, “Since Phyllis and I remainedfriends, when my children grew oldenough, she started teaching them to traindogs and secured show dogs for each ofthem. Of course, that led to me becominga 4H parent and eventually a 4H leader.We also started a 4H horse club at ourtraining barn. My three children showed

both horses and dogs simultaneously formany years in both 4H and breed shows.”As time continued to speed through, as itoften does, Phyllis got Sally involved withthe Florida State Fair Dog ShowCommittee; it was the mid-1990s then.Sally says she’s still a member today!

Once again, loss struck. Sally says, “WhenPhyllis’ health began to fail, my childrenwere already involved in the 4H DogProject and by then, being trained by BruceHutcheson. By the time Phyllis lost herbattle with cancer, I wanted to make surethe programs she created continued. So,following the death of my first husband,I retired from training horses and I contin-ued on with the 4H Dog Project. Evenafter my youngest daughter aged out of4H, I remained. I recruited fellow 4H dogparent, Mary Rothering, to help lead theKids & Kritters 4H Club.” Mary had herhands full and eventually retired from

By Ginny Mink


Kids & Kritters, at which point Sally, withBruce’s assistance, took over the leadershipof the club.

She says, “The heart of the Kids & KrittersClub is the 4H members and parents. Asthe instructors and leaders, we are only thesupport system that assists the children inachieving their goals. For the last few yearswe have had a group of children who cometo dog training classes almost everyTuesday evening between September andthe end of April. Their dedication has paidoff with wins in the show ring inShowmanship, Obedience, Agility andRally. Behind every successful child there isa supportive parent.” Supportive friendsare always helpful too, as Sally knowsquite well.

Animals are important to her and thuslyshe summed it up by saying, “One cannever underestimate the power andinfluence of animals in a child’s life. Earlyon, through interacting with and owninganimals, a child can learn compassion andresponsibility. In my own life, animalshave shaped my career choices anddetermined where I devoted my years of

community service. I know animals haveenriched my life.” Anyone seeking toenrich the lives of their own children viathe Kids & Kritters 4H Club should checkout the contact information providedbelow!

The Kids & Kritters 4H Dog Clubwill resume classes on Tuesday,September 11, 2012 at 6:15 atMary Help of Christians Center.For more information contactSally Alford Manning at:

hhoorrsseeppnnyy@@ttaammppaabbaayy..rrrr..ccoomm

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INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE AUGUST 2012 63

It’s no secret that obesity, poor nutrition and limited physicalactivity are major health concerns and challenges in America.And, they have disproportionate impact on minority and low

income populations. The United States Department of Agricultureand its National Institute of Food and Agriculture recognized inthis in the late 1960s and introduced the Expanded Food andNutrition Education Program (EFNEP) in 1969.

Since its introduction, EFNEP has improved the diets and food-related behaviors of program participants from across the coun-try. Every year, more than 500,000 new participants enroll in theprogram. In 2010, EFNEP reached 137,814 adults and 463,530youth directly and nearly 400,000 family members indirectly.The program operates in all 50 states, American Samoa,Guam, Micronesia, Northern Marianas, Puerto Rico and theVirgin Islands.

EFNEP is designed to assist limited-resource audiences in acquir-ing the knowledge, skills, attitudes to change behaviors necessaryfor nutritionally sound diets and to contribute to their personaldevelopment and the improvement of total family diet andnutritional well-being.

The program brings together federal, state and local resourcesfocusing on low-income families with young children. Here inHillsborough County, EFNEP is under the aegis of Extension.Jacqueline Hunter coordinates the program, a role she has heldfor 32 years. In the adult EFNEP program, she is assisted byparaprofessionals Mary Owens, Pamela Bradford and Mae Allen.EFNEP Program Assistant Owens is retiring in November after25 years of service. Paraprofessionals usually live in the commu-nities where they work and are involved in program recruitment.They recruit families and receive referrals from current andformer participants, community organizations and agencies.

Through an experiential learning process, adult program partici-pants learn how to make food choices which can improve thenutritional quality of the meals they serve their families. Theyincrease their ability to select and buy food that meets the nutri-tional needs of their family. They gain new skills in food produc-tion, preparation, storage, safety and sanitation, and they learn tobetter manage their food budgets and related resources forgovernmental assistance agencies and organizations.

They also learn about related topics such as physical activity andhealth. Information is provided in a series of lessons over severalmonths by paraprofessionals, perhaps better described as peereducators, and volunteers, very often members of the communityfrom which participants originate. The lessons are not lectures,but hands-on, learn-by-doing approaches that allow participantsto gain the skills needed to make positive behavior changes.“There is also the aspect of increased self-worth that programparticipants derive,” said Hunter, “which comes from theirrecognition that they have learned something of significant valueto offer their families and society.”

Specific lessons that are part of adult EFNEP sessions have beendetermined according to the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines andChoose MyPlate.

There are 20 lessons in the Eat Right for Life series. Each takesabout 60-minutes and some lessons can be in a single session. Thelessons cover such topics as MyPlate in which the participantbecomes able to name the five sections of the Plate and describefood variety, moderation, choosing amounts of foods from thefood groups based on proportions. Another session discusses thehealth benefits of physical activity and fosters understanding ofthe difference between sedentary activities and moderate tointense levels of physical activity, as well as identifying barriers tosuch activity and creation of a physical activity plan.

There are also lessons in reading labels for better nutrition, mealplanning for good nutrition and saving money, the benefits ofeating breakfast and smart snacking, food safety, plus several thatprovide information for pregnant moms and parents with infantsand young children.

Food and NutritionEducational Program WorksEACH $1 INVESTED, SAVES UP TO $10IN HEALTH CARE COSTS AND MOREBy Jim Frankowiak

Donna Lopez

Chola Little


“I feel better since participating in the classes led by EFNEP ProgramAssistant Mae Allen at our church in Tampa,” said Chola Little. “Myeating habits and the way I prepare food have all changed. You knowour bodies are the Lord’s temple and we have to watch what andhow much we take in,” she said. “She has raised my consciousnessand she also encourages us to follow the lessons she has taught us.”The sessions that Little attends attract groups from 25 to 40 andoften are part of regional gatherings devoted to health and wellnessand often include children.

The EFNEP program outreach also includes residents at AlphaHouse of Tampa, which offers homeless pregnant women and moth-ers with young children safe housing and the tools they need tobecome self-sufficient and effective, responsible parents. “There arevery valuable and popular lessons for our residents,” said DonnaLopez, an Alpha House staff member. “The classes are educationaland fun and not just limited to lectures. Our mothers enjoy cookingand shopping with EFNEP Program Assistant Pam Bradford. Theysee the value in what they learn for themselves and their children byeating what’s right and in the right quantities.” Alpha House sessionsare held several times a year.

Shannon Williams, an 18-year cancer survivor, is “very thankful” forthe classes he took with Mary Owens. “I learned that half of what Ihad been eating was really killing me. I learned how to read labelsand get on the right type of diet, plus exercise. Changes in my diethave enabled me to get off one of my cholesterol medications and theregular exercising I do is a big reliever and controller of stress,” hesaid. “I just wish more people would take advantage of this program.It is truly a blessing.”

“We are delighted with the results our program has achieved,” saidHunter. “We conduct pre and post program phone surveys with allof our adult programs and we consistently show improvements in allprogram areas on completion. That’s a clear indication EFNEP isworking here in Hillsborough County.”

For more EFNEP information, including how to participate,contact Extension – 813/744-5519, Extension 54121 or

Ext. 54124. You may also email Hunter at JJDDHH77661111@@uuffll..eedduu.The website is HHiillllssbboorroouugghhccoouunnttyy..oorrgg, under “residence” on the

site, click on “educational classes.”

Shannon Williams



Whether you live on the water ornot, your property is directlyconnected to a water body near

your home. The reason is that rain and/orover-watering leave your property asrunoff. This runoff, en route to a waterbody, picks up fertilizers, pesticides, grassclippings, gasoline, oil and other pollutantsfrom impervious surfaces. Impervioussurfaces do not allow water to percolatethrough the soil. Examples of pervious sur-faces include mulched landscape beds,pavers, turfgrass where runoff (water) is fil-tered. How we maintain and design ourlandscapes impacts our watershed.Watersheds are land masses where waterbeneath it or drains from it goes to thesame area. For us, that is Tampa Bay. Eachwatershed is connected to other watershedsand the underground aquifer, which sup-plies most of our drinking water, making itour opportunity to protect the waterfront.

If you live on the waterfront and have ariparian zone containing plants, the landalong the edge of the water, you probablyknow about the 10-foot-wide mainte-nance-free zone (buffer), which protects thewetland. Maintenance-free means no fertil-izer, pesticide or mowing is to be performedwithin 10 feet. If turfgrass is near thewaterfront, it should be mowed with thegrass clippings going toward the landscape,not toward the water. Pet waste should bepicked up and disposed of with your

household trash. If there is no buffer zone,Florida-Friendly low-maintenance plant-ings will assist in filtering out fertilizer andpesticides that runoff. The addition ofshoreline vegetation reduces erosion andattracts wildlife.

If you live on the waterfront without ariparian zone containing plants, you have ashoreline structure that helps minimizeerosion: a seawall, rip rap or gabions.Seawalls are walls that face the sea wherethey shoreline is steeply sloped andexposed to high wind and waves. Seawallscan cause erosion on adjoining properties.Rip rap is loose, large stones, and gabionsare rectangular metal baskets filled withrocks. Consideration should be given toincluding native vegetation in and alongthese structures.

Many of us live near stormwater ponds andcanals, which are man-made water bodiesthat prevent flooding, manage stormwaterand improve water quality. These pondsand canals are connected to our water-ways, so what enters them can also enterour natural water system. They are a greathabitat for plants and wildlife. By includinga variety of flood-tolerant plants, contami-nants can be reduced, diverse habitats canbe created and additional wildlife will beattracted.

All of us impact the quality (and quantity)of our water sources. By practicing themaintenance options above, each of us canenjoy our rivers, streams, lakes, freshwatersprings and the second longest coastline inthe United States. Be sure to contact yourlocal city or county offices or departmentsrelated to land development, building andplanning before making any changes relat-ed to protecting the waterfront. If you livein a deed restricted community, check withyour landscape or architectural controlcommittee as required before making land-scape changes.

The information contained in this articlewas adapted from the Florida Yards &Neighborhoods Handbook 2009, which isavailable for free at our office.

For assistance with horticultural ques-tions, call: 813-744-5519 Extension 4, or

visit us at the Hillsborough CountyExtension Service, 5339 County Road

579, Seffner, FL 33584. More gardeninginformation is available at:

hhttttpp::// //hhiillllssbboorroouugghh..eexxtteennssiioonn..uuffll..eedduu andhhttttpp::// //eeddiiss..iiffaass..uuffll..eedduu. Remember to reuse,reduce and recycle.


No matter how knowledgeable onemight be in any given field, addi-tional training and education is

always the key to success. Thankfully, evenin the agriculture industry there are organ-izations designed to offer farmers, orranchers, training and assistance.

According to Brandee Williams, a rangeland management specialist, “The FloridaGrazing Land Coalition (FGLC) is aproducer led organization that does a lotof training, education and outreach and it’sall based around topics that typical ranch-ers, or producers, deal with on a regularbasis, like invasive weeds, feral hogs,prescribed burning and rotational grazingmanagement.”

While Brandee is employed by theNational Resources Conservation Service(NRCS), her position has her partneredwith the FGLC. This is definitely herpassion. She says, “I knew from an earlyage, like seven or eight, that I wanted tosave the planet,” she chuckles. “I thoughtabout environmental engineering but Iwasn’t smart enough for that,” anotherlaugh. “When I was in high school, I wentto a ranch and wildlife academy, it was aweek long youth camp. The people run-ning it were from the NRCS. After thatweek long camp I decided that was reallywhat I wanted to do. I enjoyed being out-side and I didn’t really want to have adesk.”

Brandee went to Texas Tech Universityand got a degree in environmental conser-vation. Upon graduation she was offered a

job in Oklahoma working for the NRCS.She spent three and half years there beforetransferring to Florida. She’s been in hercurrent position for the last five years. Shesays, “I cover 15-17 counties, my area’spretty big for the stuff I do. Basically myjob is just to write grazing plans for cattleso I work with some of the bigger ranchesand things. We’re just here basically tohelp make ranchers lives a little easier.”

So, how do they achieve that, one mightwonder? Brandee gives an example,“About three or four years ago we broughtin Fred Provenza for a three day workshopand he taught us how to think in terms ofanimal behavior and training animals todo things they wouldn’t normally do.Animals think in terms of buffet when yousend them out in the pasture and they eattheir favorites and go down the line. FredProvenza taught us how to shift that think-ing of an animal into eating everything.He’s a big proponent of just training ani-mals to eat what they don’t want to eat.”

While that might sound a lot like the cowwhisperer mumbo jumbo, apparently itworks because Brandee continues, “Out ofthat three day workshop, our currentChair, Buzz Eaves, did his own study. Hebegan treating thistles with molasses. Hewould just go into a pasture and spray alittle molasses on them and he trained hiscows to eat thistles and then eventually thecows, no matter what age they were,would eat the thistles without molasses onthem. So, he doesn’t struggle with thistleanymore in his pastures.” Perhaps this issomething other ranchers will be interestedin attempting.

In addition to getting cattle to utilize allthe greens in the fields, Brandee has anoth-er initiative she supports. She says, “InOklahoma we had what we calledprescribed burn associations. When I veryfirst got here I wanted to get one startedhere in Florida. It’s a group of landownersfrom a particular area, say a county, andthey get together to help each other outwith the burning. They take the group, onehas a tractor, one has a spray tank, one hasthree or four field hands, and they pooltheir time and effort, and resources andthey take a lottery to burn each other’sland each year. Florida’s lucky because ithas more burn days. They can help differ-ent agencies, like NRCS, we’re not allowedto burn but we can write a prescribed burnplan. The forest services can do burningbut they already have their own land thatthey have to take care of. If the ranchershave their own coalition they can do theirown burning and they don’t have to waitfor a state or federal agency. We had a full

By Ginny Mink


day workshop in March on differentaspects of burning and we brought in JohnWeir. He is a research associate out ofOklahoma State University and he is kindof recognized as the guy who starts burnassociations. He gets everyone excited.Hopefully we’ll have a burn associationstarted, I’m hoping, in the next year.” Ifyou’re a rancher maybe you’ll considerlooking into starting a burn association inyour area. No doubt Brandee will eagerlyassist you in the endeavor.

Putting animal behavior and prescribedburn training aside, Brandee continues,“The biggest thing we’re doing, the hugeta-da moment, is having a national confer-ence with our parent association, theGrazing Land Conservation Initiative(GLCI), and it’s in Orlando, December9-12. We’re having some pretty big peoplethere who are going to be speakers: FredProvenza, Don Ball, Garry Lacefield,Kit Pharo and Temple Grandin. The con-ference is only every three years and itrotates among three different sections.There’s the West and Central and thenthere’s the East. So the East only gets itevery nine years. The best thing about this

conference is that 50 percent of the speak-ers are landowners or producers, it’s not allacademia. That’s kind of what makes thisconference unique because its successesand failures are from the landowners’perspective.” Given the nine year breakbetween opportunities, this might verywell be something to attend!

If you’d like to find out more about whatthe FGLC does, there’s a wealth of infor-mation at: hhttttpp::// //wwwwww..cceess..ffaauu..eedduu// ffggllcc//or if you’re interested in learning moreabout the GLCI, check out their website:hhttttpp::// //wwwwww..ggllccii..oorrgg. You can find outconference information there as well. •

Dr.Rick Garrity is a friend ofmine. That’s right, the Directorof the Hillsborough County

Environmental Protection Commission, theadministrator for the organization that hashistorically been a thorn in the side of coun-ty agriculture, is a friend. It is a friendshipthat has grown out of mutual trust, respect,and his willingness to listen to opinions con-trary to his existing mindset.

Rick seems comfortable in what has been ahistorical lightning rod of a position, and hasbeen successful in defusing most of the polit-ical firestorms that have erupted during histenure. Moreover, he truly likes his job.“What I like most about my job is that everyday is different. I interact with multiple divi-sions, advisory committees, with neighbor-ing counties, the Tampa Bay Estuary pro-gram for water quality, and private citizensasking for help.”

Though it seems like just yesterday since thedays of Roger Stewart, it has been 12 yearssince Dr. Rick Garrity became the secondadministrator in EPC’s history. As he was thehead of the Southwest District of FDEP forthe 15 years prior to his current responsibil-ity, it was natural to ask what he saw as the

differences betweenthe two similar mis-sions.

The major differenceis associated withthe scope of opera-tion. When Dr.Garrity was respon-sible for the 12county SouthwestDistrict, he respond-ed to state direction.As the EPC director,Rick still must over-

see programs that are consistent with thestate directives, but his immediate chain ofcommand is the Hillsborough CountyEnvironmental Protection Commissionboard. While the membership of that board isthe Board of County Commissioners, theirrole is different.

Rick has a history of consensus building.Most feel this is his strongest suit. It certain-ly is something he enjoys. While he was theDirector of the FDEP’s Southwest District, hedirected Ecosystem Management. He fos-tered the concept of Team Permitting andsupported the Hillsborough RiverGreenways Task Force, where landownersand regulators attempted to develop anecosystem-wide approach toward sustain-able agriculture.

I asked him what was most important tohim as it related to Hillsborough agriculture.“One of my primary values is environmentalstewardship. It involves respecting farmersfor keeping the land green while recognizingthey must maintain a viable business to keepthat land green. Farming is an outstandingopportunity to work toward protecting nat-ural resources through sustainable agricul-ture.”

That recognition of agriculture as a resourcein itself is pivotal in improving the relation-ship between agriculture and EPC. The bal-ance between protection of the environmentand streamlining the process of regulation isthe key to the survival of both. Reducing thecost of regulations, making farming moresustainable on the profit side, enhances thepotential for keeping farmers on the land,and the land green.

As Dr. Garrity sees it, there are two basicways to accomplish this objective. From theorganization side, EPC employs the SterlingManagement Model. This model emphasizesefficiency by examining the core functions ofthe organization and determining what isessential, what is less important and what theagency can do to improve performance.

The timing for this change couldn’t havebeen better. With the current economic crisis,EPC has faced some major challenges in theirmandates relative to permitting, compliance,enforcement and monitoring. EPC has suf-fered through a 30 percent shrink in a budg-et that has reduced staff from a 173 to itscurrent 128 people.

The second way for EPC to make its regula-tions less burdensome relates to the rulesthemselves. For example, the wetlands rulewas rewritten in 2008. The emphasis was tostreamline the permitting process, removingsome of the involvement with multiple agen-cies, while insuring the protection of wet-lands and managing storm water.

As the wetland rule relates to agriculturalland use, the rewritten rule allows an exemp-tion for wetlands less than a quarter of anacre (one half acre in some cases), allows theWater Management District to determine theneeds or justification criteria and workswithin the District’s AGSWIM program fordeterminations and delineations.

This is very much in the spirit of the recentstate legislation which attempted to reduceduplication in local regulations. However, Dr.Garrity made it clear that the current processto revise the EPC’s rules wasn’t precipitatedby the state legislation. He noted that whilesome of the changes were aimed at beingcompliant with state law, most were simplystreamlining or eliminating archaic rules.

Is the relationship better today betweenHillsborough County agriculture and theEPC? Decidedly so. Could it improve? Mostdefinitely! How? The best way for regulatorsto write rules that accomplish the statedintent with minimal impact on agriculture isto have a staff sprinkled with agriculturalmajors.

Maybe it’s time to discuss how to take thatnext step … •

By Chip Hinton


DR. RICKGARRITYAND THEHCEPC

Dr. Garrity


More than 50 thousand olivesnack packs were shipped toU.S. military troops overseas by

Plant City based Mario Camacho Foods.Olive of our troops, a Mario CamachoFoods campaign done in partnership withOperation Gratitude, has helped supplymore than 600 thousand care packages tosoldiers around the world.

"A generous, giving spirit is part of MarioCamacho Foods’ way to positively impactcommunities. From the farm to table, wegrow, nurture, process and deliver goodfood that is good for you. We want toshow appreciation for those who serve ourcountry by providing them with high-qual-ity, healthy food they love,” said Directorof Marketing, Annie Owens.

The Olive of Our Troops campaign is closeto the hearts of Mario Camacho Foods’employees. Captain Stephen Pineda, futureson-in-law of Mario Camacho Foods’employee, Earla Turcich has served twotours of duty, one in Iraq and one inAfghanistan.

“Many generations of my family haveserved our country in various branches ofthe military. We know firsthand the sacri-

fices that are made by the men and womenwho serve in our military as well as theirfamilies while they are deployed. MarioCamacho Foods is very excited to supportboth our troops and their families throughour Olive of Our Troops campaign,” saidTurcich.

Although growing olives in Spain hasbeen done by the Camacho Family formore than four generations, they haveexpanded into other products. Because oftheir product and packing innovation,environmental sustainability, socialresponsibility and making continuousimprovements to provide the absolutehighest quality in products and service,Mario Camacho Foods’ offers so muchmore than olives. Their product line nowinclude peppers, capers, onions, cookingoils, cherries, jams and preserves, baconbits and herbal medicinal teas. Brands soldby Mario Camacho Foods include Mario,Fragata, La Veija Fabrica and Susaron. Forthe latest recipes and coupons, consumercan follow Mario Camacho Foods onFacebook, Twitter and their website,wwwwww..mmaarriiooccaammaacchhooffooooddss..ccoommFood lovers can find the Mario brand atlocal retailers near you!

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Its hurricane season again, and with it may comedays in which our modern conveniences fail us. Sowhat can we do if we find the energy resources weput so much faith in have suddenly failed? Oneoption is to rely on energy resources that are morereliable, such as solar energy. In the early 18thcentury, Horace de Saussure, a European naturalist,constructed what he called a Hot Box to determinehow effectively glass heat traps could collect solarenergy. With his Hot Box, Saussure confirmed thatour atmosphere allows solar energy to passthrough it to hit the earth, the earth absorbs theenergy, and releases heat. Lower elevations containmore carbon dioxide and water vapors that act likea blanket to trap solar heat. Higher altitudes arenot as thick with this solar blanket and heatescapes more readily, making the air temperatureconsiderably cooler than lower elevations. Thismonth, we will construct a simple solar oven basedon the scientific principles of Saussure’s Hot Box.

Solar ovens use glass or clear plastic to duplicatethe conditions found in nature that trap solarenergy. This is why your car gets hot very quicklywhen left in the sun. Your car can easily reach dead-ly temperatures of over 100° Fahrenheit in the sum-mer time. Some solar ovens can reach up to 400°,but most range between 200° F to 350° F. BecauseFlorida is closer to the equator than any otherstate in the continental U.S., we can cook with solarenergy year round.

Materials Needed:

• Small box (big enough to hold the food)• Large box with Lid (big enough for smallbox and 2 inches all the way around)

• Aluminum foil• Clear plastic wrap (oven cooking bagssustain high heat better)

• Insulation (Feathers, Rice Hulls, Wool,Straw, Newspaper

• Pocket knife or box cutter• Black Spray Paint (Food Safe &Heat Resistant)

• Drinking straws

Naturally Amazing Activities

Solar CookerBy Sean Green

Step 1Cut a hole in theLarge Box Lid to thesame size as theinner box.

Step 2Glue aluminum foil tothe inside of bothboxes and the insideof the lid

Step 3Glue the unopenedoven bag in placeover the cutout onthe inside of the lidmaking sure the bagopening is also gluedshut.

Step 4Line the bottom andsides of the small boxwith black construc-tion paper (over thefoil) and glue it to theinside of the largerbox so it lines up withthe opening of thelarge box lid.

Step 5Fill the spacebetween the largeand small box withinsulation and sealany remaining holes.

Step 6Place the food youwant to cook in thesmall black box, closethe lid and angle thecooker to face thesun using the reflec-tor to direct sunlightthrough the opening.

We encourage Hillsborough County residence to participate in theclasses and seminars on solar cooking that are offered at the Universityof Florida, Hillsborough County Extension office in Seffner. Not only willyou learn about a variety of different styles of solar cookers, but youwill get to share recipes with others that are discovering the economicand environmental benefits of solar cooking. More information isavailable at hhttttpp::////hhiillllssbboorroouugghhnnuuttrriittiioonn..iiffaass..uuffll..eedduu//##SSoollaarr.

Dr. Christy Layton,DVM

Q:MMyy vveett ssaayyss II sshhoouulldd bbuuyymmyy ddoogg’’ss mmeeddiiccaattiioonntthhrroouugghh hhiimm aanndd nnoott ffrroomm

aann oonnlliinnee pphhaarrmmaaccyy.. DDooeess hhee jjuussttwwaanntt mmyy mmoonneeyy oorr iiss tthheerree aa rreeaallrreeaassoonn ttoo bbuuyy iitt ffrroomm aa vveett??

A:That is a very good question, andone that we are asked all the time.There is a very valid reason for

your vet to say that. The veterinary commu-nity is very concerned about the quality ofproducts sold through online pharmacies.There have recently been a number of med-ications that were purchased through onlinepharmacies and were found to not have thecorrect active ingredients in them. When theserial numbers were run by the company onthe label, it was determined that these prod-ucts were in fact not made by the company atall, rather they were black market products.This may be less of an issue with flea preven-tions as you can see the fleas if the product isnot working. But, with a heartworm medica-tion or other medication that works “insideyour pet,” this is much more difficult. If yourpet’s heartworm prevention that you pur-chased online fails to work, your dog could

have deadly heartworm disease before youever realize that the product is not what youthought it was. Then, it is too late.

All of the major pharmaceutical manufactur-ers of heartworm products have a guaranteeon their product but only if purchased from aveterinarian. They will pay for everythingthat your dog needs for heartworm treatment(which can cost $300-$900) and many willgive you a year’s supply of prevention free aswell. The pharmaceutical companies do notextend this guarantee to anyone purchasingfrom an online pharmacy since they do notsell to them directly. So you can see how thepotential of saving a few dollars may havelarge consequences in the future.

The online pharmacies get their productsfrom one of three places: 1) unethical veteri-narians selling excess amounts of product ille-gally to make fast cash, 2) Overseas product(These products do not carry the US-FDAapproval and may come from countries thathave fewer pharmaceutical regulations. Theymay have also been in a cargo ship in veryhigh temperatures making the ingredientsinactive by the time you receive it.), 3) Blackmarket suppliers that could be putting noneof the active ingredient in the product or evenworse, something that could harm your petwhile making the packaging look identical tothe real thing.

Most people think that buying online isalways cheaper, but often this is not the case.Many of the products are cheaper or the sameprice from your veterinarian as they areonline. Also, many of the pharmaceuticalcompanies offer discounts to veterinarians toaid in selling their products such as “Buy 6Get 2 Free” or “$10 off the purchase of 6

Tablets.” These discounts are not availablewith an online/big chain store purchase sincethe companies do not sell to those pharma-cies.

Another reason we recommend purchasingfrom your veterinarian is the same reason werecommend buying local “Fresh From FloridaProducts” in the agriculture world. Your vet-erinarian is a local business just like all thefarmers and small retailers in your area. Yourveterinarian has spent their entire life devotedto educating themselves about caring for yourpet’s health and well-being. Your veterinarianis the best person capable of deciding whatmedications and doses your pet needs. Theyare the one to educate you about using yourpet’s medications effectively and safely. Yourveterinarian is the only one that can provideyou a guarantee on the products you pur-chase. Support your local veterinarian and inturn, they will support you with their knowl-edge, caring and quality of medicine that youand your pets deserve. Your human-pet bondis only improved by a good relationship withyour local veterinarian. •

Ask-A-Vet

What’s YourQuestion?

Call: 813.754.PETS (7387)1704 Walden Village Ct. • Plant City, FL 33566

Please feel free to email any of your questions to

[email protected] your question may be answered

in next month’s issue.

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FORD NAA TRACTORGood condition, gas engine.$1,950. Call Alvie 813-759-8722

3PT LIFT3 row hole punch. Very good condition. $500.00Call Alvie 813-759-8722

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

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

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

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

JOHN DEERE 6420Cab with a/c, 4x4 3345 hrs. 9 pto hp. $37,500.Call Alvie 813-759-8722

KUBOTA L34032 hp, 4x4, shuttle shift. 1783 hrs.Call Alvie 813-759-8722

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

FOR SALE

TRAILER FOR SALE44x12 single wide trailer in WintersMobile Home Park. Zephyrhills 5k orbest offer. Call (813)967-4515

ALL A BLOOM FLORISTMylar Balloons for all occasions!!! $4.95 each.116 N. Collins - Downtown Plant City.www.allabloomtampa.com

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

REAL ESTATE

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

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

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

A SLICE OF HEAVEN2.03 acres lot on Hare Mtn. Estates inFranklin NC. Breath-taking views. Purchased10/08 for $73,400. Yours today for $32,900GREAT INVESTMENT! Call 813-655-6769

FOR SALE – WHAT WAS 900K, REDUCED TO375K? 20 ACRES LAKELAND AGRICULTURERELATED, INCOME PRODUCING1600 ft of I-4 frontage. Call us now to see howmuch you're losing by not owning this property!Estate Brokers USA at 813-986-9141

FOR SALEThe Cat is out of the bag. Check this out- 20054/2 2300 sq ft residence income producing farm -owner finance- non qualifying- zero interest.Antioch Call now, it might still be available.Estate Brokers USA at 813-986-9141

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]

INDEPENDENT ACCOUNT MANAGERIn The Field Magazine is looking forindependent account managers to joinour team! Please [email protected] call 813-759-6909.

Classifieds Tel: 813.759.6909 [email protected]


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