Heartland Magazine September 2012

A Way of Life.

SEPT 2012

COVER STORY:TALKING BEEF CATTLEWITH WOODY LARSON

HEARTLAND

September 2012 Heartland In!eFieldMagazine 3

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4 Heartland In!eFieldMagazine September 2012


16 Heartland’s Fishing Report By Capt. Mark King

18 September’s Hunting Spotlight Emily McKenna

20 Citrus Expo Recap By Justin Smith

22 Citrus Update: Following CHMAs By Justin Smith

24 Florida Farming: The Treehouse Nursery By Ron Lambert

28 Woman In Ag: Nancy Phares By Robbi Sumner

30 Florida Cattlewomen Recipe: Italian Beef and Pasta

32 FFVA’s In Season Soon: Florida Cucumbers

33 Dining in the Heartland: Beef Brisket Cook Off By Ashley Hughes

34 The Working Cowboy By Ron Lambert

37 Back to School Photo Contest Announcing the Facebook Photo Contest Winners!

48 Heartland’s Feature Artist: Keith Goodson

52 Special Rodeo Section

68 Lazy H Bait By Cindy Cutright

70 FFA News

78 Ag Calendar

42 ON THE COVER Cover photo by Callie Maddox

Talking Beef Cattleby Robbi Sumner

HEARTLANDA Way of Life.

SEPT

2012

44

52

24

28



Phone (813) 708-3661Fax (813) 283-4978

PublisherRhonda [email protected] Berry

Executive Editor

Business Manager

Art DirectorsCarrie Evans

Marketing ConsultantKathryn Gladwell

Staff WritersRon Lambert

Michael Waldron

Contributing WritersChass Bronson

PhotographyKelley Baker

Heartland in the Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and other local venues within Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Charlotte, Glades, Hendry and Okeechobee Counties. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes members of the Farm Bureau and those with ag classification on their land. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to Heartland In the Field Magazine, P.O. Box 3183 Plant City, FL. 33563 or you are welcome to e-mail them to [email protected] or call 813-708-3661.

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

All contents Copyright 2012. No part of this work may be copied, transmitted, reproduced or reprinted without the express written consent of the publisher. Annual subscriptions to receive Heartland A Way of Life at your home or business is $25 annually. For advertising, subscriptions or editorial questions please call 813-708-3661 or email [email protected]. Heartland® A Way Of Life In The Field publication has been in print since 2009.


I don’t know about y’all, but I’m sure ready for Fall! I love the fall weather, or at least what I imagine fall weather to feel like, football season (Go Gators!), trips to pick out that perfect pumpkin from a Pumpkin Patch and all the wonderful times spent with family and friends. The end of summer means one thing though- Ranch Rodeo Finals! We have featured a special rodeo section this month where you can read about local ranch rodeos, a story about a quarter horse that made quite an impact on barrel racing and team bios on everyone competing in this year’s Florida Cattlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo Finals and Cowboy Heritage Festival. The festival takes place in Kissimmee September 28 and 29. Be sure to mark your calendars to attend! Our cover story features the newly elected President of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, Woody Lar-son. Read the article, Talking Beef Cattle with Woody Larson, on page 42. Continuing with all things cattle this month, we feature Nancy Phares as our Woman In Ag who grew up working with her father and grandfather on the family ranch. She also was recently honored by the Florida Cattlewomen’s Association as the 2012 Outstanding Cattlewoman of the Year. Congratulations Nancy!

was Back to School and we wanted all pictures featuring kids in agriculture. I have to say, the Heartland did not disappoint with 58 total submissions of adorable kids interacting with ag! From citrus to cattle, watermelons to honey bees, the photos showed all aspects of the industry! Thank-fully, we didn’t have to judge them ourselves; the University of Florida’s Agricultural Communications’

photo is on page 37 so be sure to check it out along with the honorable mentions and a collage of all the submissions. Our winner will also receive a Prize Pack from our sponsors: Laye’s Tire Service, Callie Maddox Photography, The Blueberry Patch, Erin Edmonds JewelKade and Taylor Oil Company! Thank you to all the parents for sharing your children’s pictures with us and a big thanks to our sponsors for making the contest a huge hit! To see all the images and read some of the stories behind them, check out our Facebook page at facebook.com/HeartlandMagazine Like us on Facebook and you can see event photos, join in on Ag Fact Friday, tell us how we’re doing, read the magazine online and much more! Who knows, there may be another photo contest in the future! We’ll see y’all In the Field,

I’d love to hear from you! Please send any comments or questions to [email protected]


Index of Advertisers

Karen Berry

Chass Bronson [email protected]

Ron Brown

Rhonda [email protected]

[email protected]


11 Callaway Farms 35 Cattlemen’s Livestock Market

17 Chem Containers

78 Daniels Deceivers

51 Florida Cattlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo Finals 59 Florida Cattlemen’s Association

53 Florida Fence Post

62 Glarner Farms

77 Goin’ Postal

7 KeyPlex

77 Marlin Marble 77 Michael G. Kirsch 71 Millers Central Air 19 Mosaic

47 Pathway



HARDEE COUNTY FARM BUREAU1017 US Highway 17 N

Wauchula, FL. 33873

Monday – Friday

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

863. 773. 3117

Fax:863. 773. 2369

OFFICERS ANDEXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President……David B. Royal

Vice President…Greg L. Shackelford

Sec./Treasurer……..Bo Rich

DIRECTORS FOR 2011-2012Joseph B. Cherry John Platt

Corey Lambert Daniel H. Smith

Steve A. Johnson Bill Hodge

David B. Royal Greg L. Shackelford

Bo Rich

Susan Chapman

N. Jay Bryan

George L. Wadsworth, Jr.

1017 US Hwy 17 N.

Wauchula, FL 33873

(863) 773-3117

HIGHLANDS COUNTYFARM BUREAU6419 US Highway 27 S.

Sebring, FL 33876

Monday – Friday

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

:

863. 385. 5141

Fax:863. 385. 5356

www.highlandsfarmbureau.com


President………Scott Kirouac

Vice President…Doug Miller

Secretary………..Carey Howerton

Treasurer……..Mike Waldron

DIRECTORS FOR 2011-2012Sam Bronson Steve Farr

Mike Milicevic Jeff Williams

Frank Youngman Marty Wohl

Jim Wood Lindsey Sebring

Janet Menges

Chad D. McWaters

Joseph W. Bullington

6419 US Highway 27 S.

Sebring, FL 33876

(863) 385-5141

Cameron N. Jolly

Dawn A. Hines

Clint Brown

1278 SE US Highway 31

Arcadia, FL 34266

(863) 494-3636

CHARLOTTE/DESOTOCOUNTY FARM BUREAU1278 SE US Highway 31

Arcadia, FL 34266

Monday – Friday

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

863.494.3636

941.624.3981

Fax:863.494.4332


President…………....Jim Selph

Vice President……….Jeffrey Adams

Sec./Treasurer......Bryan K. Beswick

DIRECTORS FOR 2011-2012Jim Brewer John Burtscher

Mike Carter Steve Fussell

Lindsay Harrington

Richard E. Harvin Ann H. Ryals

Mac Turner Matt Harrison

Ken Harrison

Katherine Ryals


District 6 UpdateFrom the Desk of Andy Neuhofer

As time marches forward, the issues we face seem to become more complex. Food Safety, trade, water quality and quantity, market based policies, mandated policies, production methods, and the need for increased production. All of these are issues being faced by the farmers and ranchers in the United States today.

As we confront a multitude of issues, the Farm Bureau advisory committees have met to discuss policy concerning these matters. The policy book is reviewed and updated every year. Members from across the state are appointed to the various committees and charged with the responsibility of helping to form Farm Bureau policy. Sometimes, a member from a County Farm Bureau may have a concern that needs to be addressed. Periodically, resolutions can and do begin at the county level.

The issues and commodities include but are not limited to apiculture, aquaculture, beef, citrus, dairy, horticulture, equine, forestry, peanuts/cotton, sod/turf grass, sugar, vegetable, labor, food safety, international trade, government, pesticides and fertilizers.

The resolutions go to the delegate body at the Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s annual meeting in October which will be in Ponte Vedra Beach October 24 – 26, 2012. The voting delegates review the resolutions again, discuss any concerns that may occur, vote and Farm Bureau policy is formed for another year. Resolutions and policies

policy process but the reasons are many. The issues addressed each day have to be confronted with policy that is based on thought and facts not based on emotion.

Andy Neuhofer Florida Farm Bureau District 6352.318.2506


1. Why do we supplement beef cows? Fill the nutrient gap between animal requirements & forage supply Improve utilization of forage fat and/or additives Maintain or improve Body Condition Score (BCS) ALL OF THE ABOVE

2. Why are we concerned about managing cow body condition? Adequate BCS is required for females to cycle and breed Cows in borderline condition may cycle and breed later Cow BCS impacts calf health Thin cows do not produce milk at their full genetic potential ALL OF THE ABOVE

3. The “right” supplement for a forage-based diet needs to supply: Degradable crude protein Essential minerals ALL OF THE ABOVE

in a supplement option? Low cost per unit of essential nutrient

Low cost per head per day

Minimal waste ALL OF THE ABOVE

5. Liquid supplements for beef cows offer: ALL OF THE ABOVE

The answer to every question, of course, is “All of the above.” We can easily come up with a

full list of reasons to supplement the cowherd because it is so essential that all their nutritional needs are met, regardless of forage quality or availability. And cow body condition is clearly the right indicator of how well that supplementation program is working, because BCS is tied to so many economically important processes. The ‘basic principles’ of production that

all the cows bred, getting them bred on time, and optimizing calf growth before weaning. None of these can happen if the nutritional program is lacking.

Supplements need to be both effective and cost-effective. When cattle are grazing or being fed harvested forages, the

needs of the rumen microbes are

“bugs” have all the nitrogen, energy and trace nutrients they need, their fermentation activity will break down more of the forage (allowing increased intakes) and degrade it more thoroughly (increasing digestion, and nutrient yield, from the diet).

Supplement options should be compared on both their ability to

involved in delivering the needed nutrients to the cattle. Cost per ton does not tell the entire story. Liquid supplements, whether provided in free-choice lick wheel feeders or applied directly to forages, can bring a unique set of advantages to many operations. Combining molasses sugars, rumen-degradable protein, and key minerals and vitamins, these products are ideal complements to forage-based diets. Liquids typically compare favorably to other supplements when evaluated on a “total cost” basis, with high nutrient density, minimal equipment needs, very little waste, and essentially no time or labor requirements when the dealer delivers the feed. And liquid supplements are one of the few practical options for delivering low levels of nutrients, fat or additives to cattle in grazing situations

Back to BasicsBy Dr. Cathy Bandyk, Quality Liquid Feeds

As students return to the classroom, teachers will be reviewing and reinforcing the basic concepts that the rest of their curriculum is built on.

basic principles that all other management decisions need to support.

BACK TO SCHOOL

For over 30 years, CF Industries has supported Hardee County by providing good jobs, taxes, and community service,

and by partnering with education leaders and community organizations.

CF INDUSTRIES CARES ABOUT SAFETY, THE ENVIRONMENT,

AND THE CITIZENS OF HARDEE COUNTY.

Phosphate Rock Mine & Beneficiation Plant 6209 County Road 663 | Wauchula, FL 33873


HEARTLAND’SFISHINGREPORTI t has been a hot summer in south

Florida as it has been over a lot of the US, but the fishing here

on Lake Okeechobee remains steady. Most of the bass are offshore chasing bait

the morning but as the sun gets up high in the sky, it pushes the bait down and the

level has remained around twelve feet above sea level all summer long, which is a good thing to not have to worry about a drought.

the past few weeks. There is a lot of gar

you end up with the gar eating more of the

lures, I have been mostly throwing lipless crankbaits like the Spro Aruka Shad in both the 5/8 and 1-ounce size, gold and chrome are my color choices. After the bite slows down a little in the morning,

shakey head rig. On my Carolina rig I like to use a Gambler Ace and on my shakey head jig, a Gambler Sweebo worm works great in junebug color for both. I am still catching a few and I mean very few bass in the grass on jigs, but if you do catch one, it is usually a good-sized bass; still using a or 1-ounce jig with a Gambler Mega Daddy for a trailer.

has been on the main lake from off the Clewiston channel, the reef both inside and outside, Uncle Joe’s cut out at the lake end and also the rim canal has been holding some bass.

You will need a good GPS with maps

the Clewiston channel and other areas

The water is at a good safe level to run carefully but don’t run to close to the grass yet as we need another foot of water to make this safe to run.

As the kids head back to school and fall

Okeechobee will start to get better with every passing day; the bass will get ready to start heading back into the grass where we all love to catch them. Now is the time to start booking those winter trips here on the lake as this winter promises to be even better than last year and it was crazy catching big bass here last season.

Be sure to drink lots of water out on the lake this time of year and keep plenty of sunscreen on all exposed skin. Until next report good luck, tight lines, and I hope to see everyone on the water soon.

Captain Mark King is a full time guide and tournament angler guiding out of the world famous Roland Martin’s Marina and Resort in Clewiston Florida and also in the Florida Keys out of Marathon

Chris Sullivan from the UK with a nice Okeechobee summertime bass

Captain Mark King



1 East Wall Street Frostproof, FL 33843 [email protected] 863-635-0240 www.spurlows.com

September’s Hunting Spotlight brought to you by

Spurlow’s Outdoor Outfitters Emily McKenna

Submit your hunting pictures for the Monthly Hunting Spotlight to [email protected]

ABOVE: Hunted during the late season of general gun with my Dad down in Clewiston, Fl. It wasn’t even 15 minutes after shooting light that we saw a nice wide 6pt walking 50 yards in front of us. I grunted and once the buck stopped, I shot him with my 30/30 lever action. The deer didn’t run 40 yards and dropped. When we got up to go check out the kill, we saw another buck about 150 yards aways with a tall rack. I have open sights on my rifel so my dad took this shot with his 243. Great morning hunt with Dad! I will remember it for the rest of my life!

LEFT: My birthday happens to coinside with turkey season in Clewiston so every year my Dad takes me turkey hunting for my birthday present. This year I killed a turkey with a 9 ½ inch beard and 1 ½ in spurs (the biggest spurs I’ve ever killed) Best birthday present ever!

buck kill with my bow which was harvested in Hardee County. I spent many hours in the stand sitting in 90 degree weather but it was well worth it. There is no other feeling in the world than when you kill something with a bow. My dad gave me that bow after graduating with my 2year degree from ABAC in 2009 and I have been addicted to bow hunting ever since.

ABOVE: Every year my Dad takes us kids to Kentucky to duck hunt to ring in the new year. It’s always a good time in the blind with Dad as we slam the ducks.


I keep our land productive.

I am Mosaic.Before we begin any mining for phosphate — an essential crop nutrient for growing food — Mosaic develops a government-approved plan for restoring the land to productive use after mining. As reclamation supervisor, I oversee the creation of wetlands, parks, wildlife habitats, and other areas for both people and wildlife to enjoy. Knowing I’m helping to preserve nature makes my work more than a job.

Actually, it’s nothing short of a mission.

www.mosaicfla.com

®


It was another fantastic year at the Citrus Expo. The annual gathering of all things citrus related converged in the Ft. Myers area on August 15th and 16th this year. Everyone was

treated to the usual hospitality which has come to be a signature trait of the event. The tried and true set-up was utilized and

The seminar theme for this year was “Production Basics to Ensure the Future”. The speakers were of the best quality, all delivered information that was extremely relevant to the theme. Wednesday

supply and demand strategies. Given the nature of this topic it was also at the best possible timing, as everyone’s mind was fresh and ready to get started. Ron Muraro explained the cost difference of producing and harvesting citrus between Brazil and Florida, in real U.S. dollars.

this information presented in such a clear and understandable format. Growers can gain a tremendous insight into costs by taking a look at Mr. Muraro’s information, which is always available on University of Florida’s Extension Service web site. Wednesday afternoon’s focus revolved

world of growing citrus, there is no meeting where this topic needs to be dismissed. All growers, producers and anyone else related to the industry need to keep up on the latest information. Thursday seminars were dominated by Strategies to manage HLB and Pest. Although basically everyone in the industry is dealing with HLB, it is vitally important to keep updated on research progress. Not only lab results are shared

as well. What is working, what is not and

and shared. This gives everyone the chance to be armed with the same information which is only wise since everyone is working toward the same goal. The second portion of Thursday’s speakers covered pest management. This subject came up during almost every other topic that was touched on this year. Since pest management is integrated into overall disease management, this issue is on the forefront for everyone’s need to know list. One of the most important factors discussed frequently was resistance. This is the most important thing ALL growers need to understand about pest management. One of the greatest strengths the industry has is the Citrus Health Management Area’s that have been set up, by growers, around the state. You can read more about that in this month’s Citrus Update.Not only were the speakers top of the line this year but the vendors were also. All facets of every possible need were represented. Equipment of all kinds and all brands were represented on the

machine was there, equipped with the

Technology was in no short supply as well.

longer. Now tractors are equipped with computers and trucks are getting scanners

know how you could, just set off a text

watch as everyone grabs for their phone,

and then you will see just how much

and how much everyone relies on it. But enough with all of that stuff, now for the part everyone really shows up for;; prizes, food and those who can make it, the yearly casino night. We all get great information and get to take a look at what everyone has to offer, but the food is as much of a draw as anything else. All morning the smell of the meat

the exhibit and seminar halls. This year Wednesday’s attendees got ribs that literally fell apart, while Thursday saw the traditional rib eye steak and it lived up to its predecessors with all the tender, juiciness one could hope for. After eating and walking off the strong urge to take a nap, the ice cream social was in full swing.

where everyone was congregated. Prizes were in abundance and there was no lack of buckets with name cards pilled in them at many booths. Rod and Reels, gift cards, iPads, you name it and someone probably won it at the show. The coveted gun safe was taken home on Wednesday and the grills on Thursday. Yep, the citrus industry knows how to do it right.

takes many volunteers and sponsors to pull off a feat of this magnitude. Those involved are numerous and it speaks volumes about the closeness of this industry. Citrus growers everywhere should be proud to be a part of such a great community and thank all those who tirelessly work on this project for many long hours.

CITRUS UPDATE

2012 C"#$%& E'() R*+,( By Justin Smith

LOOK WHO WE SAW AT THE EXPO!


HAVE VACANT LAND: PLANT PINES THIS WINTERBENEFITS:

Economical way to obtain and maintain agricultural tax exemption Excellent way to restore land to original features

Possible government cost share assistance


by Justin Smith

TPsyllid. The results are encouraging for the entire industry in its efforts to lower psyllid populations.

disease is to stop its spread, then eliminating the carrier is the

have been wildly successful in this endeavor. All over the state the CHMAs have been catching on and taking

proving to be very effective. The results of the psyllid counts are all the proof that is needed. On average, the more growers participate the better the counts have been. During the recent Citrus Expo, a consistent message delivered throughout the seminars was the importance of psyllid

management. The focus was not only managing the populations but managing the possibility of resistance as well. So far, researchers have been able to prove complete resistance to certain pesticides in the citrus psyllid in controlled tests. Fortunately

have been some signs of partial resistance to a couple of widely used pesticides. The tools, a.k.a. pesticides, the industry has at its disposal are very few and the last thing anyone would want is to lose any of them. The CHMA concept is the greatest avenue available to facilitate in the communication, which is necessary, for this not to happen. Dr. Michael Rogers delivered a presentation during the Expo which left everyone with little doubt of the importance of working together and coordinating pesticide spray efforts. A grower panel also discussed how well a few of the very active CHMAs work and how well growers are doing who participate. CHMAs are also proving to be a valuable tool for other things as well, such as canker, which is always a huge topic. The CHMA meetings spend as much time discussing this as they do psyllid populations. Although this information is not listed on the web site, it gives many growers and applicators a good idea of what everyone else is seeing and doing. The more people share, the

Spot needs to be highly managed, CHMAs are being utilized as a group of growers are already actively communicating. The CHMAs may have been started for the purpose of psyllid control but as the concept is catching on they are proving to do so much more. Any grower who is actively participating can see their results and the industry as a whole is seeing them as well.Participation is much easier than it would seem to be. All that has to be done is log onto the CHMA web site for the area your grove is in and see when the next target time frame is scheduled for and which type of pesticide has been selected. Then, just plan your next spray accordingly. For anyone who wants more details, there is contact information for at least one coordinator in your area. This person can answer any questions you have, give you any further information about the meetings and even

anyone is invited to the CHMA meetings and the coordinators can let you know about that as well. There is no mandatory participation and no one has to know you participate if you don’t want him or her to. By working together, the citrus industry can continue producing its great Florida oranges, just like all the generations before.

CITRUS UPDATE

By: Justin Smith

FollowingCHMAs



By Ron Lambert

A number of years ago, my father and mother developed an interest in fruit trees for the South. Their main interest was centered on the Japanese persimmon. As a result of this interest, we became acquainted with Bob and Vivian

that would be less stressful and allow him to return to his roots near the water. They found a small mango grove for sale in

1970s, they moved back, stock and barrel, to this corner of Southwest Florida. They built a house there and began to enlarge their tropical fruit grove. Over time, they added more mango varieties as well as lychee, longon, jackfruit, sapote and other very rare types of tropical fruit. They began a container nursery named The Treehouse producing a wide range of ethnic fruits for a growing group of immigrants from

These people had been familiar with these fruits in their homeland and wanted to get trees and fruits here in Florida. There are active clubs throughout South Florida whose primary interest is tropical fruit.

an increase in the selection of fruit in larger grocery stores. Some of these exotics are grown here in South Florida for local use. Bob and Vivian’s daughter Lianne took an early interest in helping to start new plants for an increasing inventory of fruit trees. She and her mother were taught the art of grafting and budding when she was fourteen years old.

early age and spent many hours at this task. The Treehouse was constantly seeking new and improved selections of mangoes. Vivian traveled to Vietnam and other countries in search of new selections. A number of new

FLORIDA!e Treehouse Nursery


FARMINGintroductions have been made over the past 30 years. One notable variety is known as Nam

from the country of Vietnam. On a local front,

discovered at the Murray’s mango grove in

Over the years the Murrays produced

as well as 50 types of exotic fruits from all over the world. Unfortunately, Bob and Vivian Murray began to have health related problems and the nursery suffered from the absence of a concerned

of 2012, their daughter Lianne and son-in-law moved back from Texas to take over the operations of Treehouse Nursery. During a visit to the nursery, Lianne proudly points out each small improvement and the effort that went into rebuilding the treehouse to a position and source of the best tropical fruit available. Both Bob and Vivian Murray are gone but they are still remembered by many enthusiasts of tropical fruit. Their daughter and her family, who gave up careers in health care in Texas, are carrying on their life’s work. Both Lianne and her daughter, Allisyn, are nurses. Her son-in-law, Mario, is a skilled carpenter who is putting his skill to work around the property. This family represents another group of people who left behind a fairly secure future to keep the legacy of a family business alive and healthy. They deserve our respect and support.

sure that it will prove to be a rewarding visit. For more information, location, hours and to read their blog, check out their web site at http://treehousenursery.us or you can call them at 239-283-3688.



CenterState Bank’s Core Values:Local Market Driven A Long Term Horizon World Class Service

Relationship Banking Faith and Family

Monica AnuezPersonal Banker

Jamie BrammeierCustomer Service Specialist

Faveola CarrilloSr. Personal Banker

Shannon ConradSr. Customer Service Specialist

Kristy CrawfordCommercial Loan Officer/VP

Sherri EnfingerConsumer Loan Officer

Heather HancockExecutive Assistant

Jennifer LaffertyResidential Lender/AVP

Cecilia RodriguezSr. Personal Banker

Tabitha TrentBranch Manager/VP

John WilliamsCommunity President/SVP

863.763.55732100 South Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974

w w w. c e n t e r s t a t e b a n k . c o m

CSB-OkeechobeeHalfPgVHeartlandAd071312:Layout 1 7/13/12 9


Born to Marian and J.O. Pearce, Jr. of Okeechobee, Nancy grew up learning to appreciate the land and its bounty. She and her brothers were raised working with their grandfather and father on the family ranch.

While Nancy went on to become an elementary teacher and moved to Fort Pierce with Bill, her husband of 44 years, the beef industry always remained close to her heart. When teaching school, Nancy says she would always include a unit on the benefits of meat, milk, fruits and

classes. “There were children

who actually believed that chocolate milk came from the cows that way! My goal was to educate the students as to where food comes from. A third grader once claimed to be vegetarian and that made me work even harder.”

Nancy was very active with the St. Lucie County Cattlewomen’s Association while living in Fort Pierce and now participates with the Okeechobee County Cattlewomen. She served as Okeechobee’s State Director a couple of years and was the President of the Florida Cattlewomen’s Association in 2005.

goodness and safety of beef,” she

says. Nancy has given countless beef cooking demonstrations at grocery stores and special events like the Southern Women’s Show in Orlando, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm with thousands of people from all walks of life.

Nancy PHARESby Robbi Sumner

WO

MAN

IN

AG

RIC

ULTU

RE

“I’m just thankful that I grew up in the agricultural family that I did. It teaches you an appreciation for life and the things we need to take care of,” shared Nancy Phares during a recent visit.


Her personal favorite is a medium-rare grilled steak, and she fondly recalls eating steaks prepared by her father at the “dinner hammock” at their ranch. “Daddy would trim the fans off a palmetto and plant one end in the ground and hang a steak on the other end at an angle over the fire. Then the steak would be flipped to cook the other side and they always turned out perfect!”

Another influence J.O. had on his daughter was instilling a sense of importance for animal health issues.

Florida Ag Hall of Fame, largely for his work in getting monies appropriated for the eradication of screw worms. We used to go to church on Sunday, go home to eat lunch, and then the whole family would load up to head to the ranch to check newborn calves for that dreaded pest,” she said.

Recently honored by the Florida Cattlewomen’s Association as the 2012 Outstanding Cattlewoman of the Year, Nancy

award was announced at the FCA Convention in June, where she was presented with a beautiful, engraved crystal vase.

These days Nancy runs her Lazy JP Ranch with help from Bill, and their sons Brad, Brian, and Brent’s families.

our family,” she says proudly. “We spend a lot of time together, either in Lake Placid or at the ranch.” One family tradition they enjoy is spending Thanksgiving together at the ranch where they cook steak, sausage and ribs on a flat grill.

teaches the kids the importance of the ranch.” She especially enjoys watching the curious baby calves and riding her palomino mare when working cows, typically with several grandkids at her side.

“We’re fighting everyday to keep agriculture viable and to make people realize the importance of where their food comes from. We try to do things right environmentally.

to pass down to future generations.”


REC

IPE O

F T

HE M

ON

TH

Italian Beef & PastaTotal recipe time: 2-1/4 hours

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:1-1/4 pounds boneless beef chuck steaks, cut 1/2 inch thick

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 medium onion, chopped

1 large clove garlic, minced

style stewed tomatoes, undrained, broken up

to-serve beef broth

1/4 cup dry red wine

1/2 pound small mushrooms, halved

4 ounces uncooked mostaccioli

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:Cut beef steaks into 1-inch pieces. Heat oil in stockpot over medium heat until hot. Brown beef, half at a time;; remove. Pour off drippings.

stockpot;; cook and stir 2 minutes. Add beef, tomatoes, broth and wine;; bring to a boil. Reduce heat;; cover tightly and simmer 1-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.

Stir in mushrooms and mostaccioli;; continue cooking, covered, 20 minutes. Uncover;; continue cooking 10 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir in cheese.



With cucumbers as popular as they are, you may be surprised to learn that some people used to call them “cowcumbers”

to eat. That was in the late 1600s, when eating uncooked fruits and vegetables temporarily fell out of favor.

Florida

Cucumbers

In Season Soon

But they were popular long before the 15th century and would return to dinner plates, salad bowls and pickle barrels

cucumber has traveled a long, winding

cultivated as far back as 3,000 years. Their route meandered through Greece

the ancient Romans, through the rest of Europe and into North America, courtesy of the Spaniards.

Florida cucumbers are just about ready for harvest in some parts of the state. The season runs from October to June, with peak harvest in April. Most of Florida’s cucumbers are grown in West Central and South Florida. Some crops are grown for the fresh market and others for pickling. Cucumbers are part of the cucurbit family, which includes cantaloupes, honeydew melons and squash.

Cucumbers are a great food to eat if you’re trying to stay hydrated. They’re also a good source of Vitamin C and minerals such as phosphorus and potassium. Plus they’re low in calories and contain no fat, cholesterol or sodium.

When shopping for cucumbers, look for those with a deep green color that are

Make sure they don’t have any soft spots.

You can use cucumbers in just about any kind of salad, either sliced or chopped. They’re even great on their own with a little dressing or vinegar. And they’re wonderful in dips, chilled soup such as gazpacho, and many other recipes. Store cucumbers in the refrigerator, unwashed and in a perforated plastic bag, or in the crisper drawer so they can breathe.

Here are a couple of suggestions for your Florida cucumbers.

www.ffva.com twitter/ FlaFruitandVeg Facebook: Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association

Cool GazpachoFamily recipe

Cool Florida cucumber dip


DINING IN THE HEARTLAND:

BEEF BRISKET COOK OFFFlorida Heritage Festival 2012

SPEC

IAL F

EATU

RE

By Ashley Hughes

Ladies and Gentlemen, Start Your Grills! The Florida Ranch Rodeo Finals and Cowboy Heritage Festival will be kicking off the 5th Annual Beef Brisket Cook Off on Saturday, September 29th at

the Silver Spurs Arena at the Osceola County Heritage Park

four categories;; the winners in each category were: People’s Choice- Manatee County Cattlemen’s Association;; Best Contestant Area- Smokin’ Pink;; Showmanship and Dress- Davis Spurs;; and Overall Best Brisket- Wilder Saddlery. A set of experienced judges graded each team’s brisket for the overall winner.

While the teams were competing for cash and prizes, this was an opportunity to showcase their love of beef brisket. “Everybody loves barbeque,” said Danny Coggins of Wilder Saddlery, the best brisket category team winner.

Danny and his wife, Bridget, enjoy cooking at home, but they decided that they wanted to try something new;; “We wanted to compete to do something together,” Danny commented

whole family. The Wilder Saddlery team consisted of Mike Wilder, Danny Coggins, Bridget Coggins, Noah Handley and Stacey Handley. As this was the Wilder Saddlery team’s

name called last as the overall brisket winner, but the team did their homework on how to create the best briskets. Mike Wilder said that their team “had a great experience” at the Beef Brisket Cook Off and looks forward to next year’s competition!

Chef Paul Evans, one of the judges of the brisket cook off competition stated, “From a chef’s perspective, it is great to see the work, love, and passion that the teams put forth, not just in their food, but the entire package. As chefs, we try to create an ‘experience’ for our customers and this is what each and every team accomplished, probably without even realizing it!”

While walking around the festival, there is no mistaking the tantalizing smells of smoke, barbeque and brisket. We hope that you will come to the Cowboy Heritage Festival in September to either showcase your brisket culinary skills or simply enjoy the day and sample some fantastic beef! The money raised from this event supports the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation, which is dedicated to the preservation of the history, heritage and ideals of Florida cattlemen and to the enhancement of beef production and marketing practices for future generations.


By Ron Lambert

This is a brief account of the life of a Florida Cowboy known as a day worker: men who are becoming rarer and more uncommon as time marches on. This is their story…

There was no way around it and no doubt about it. This old cowboy

was tired and ready to head to the farm.

breakfast at Pahokee Slims table. He had grabbed up two biscuits and syrup for a later snack, saddled his cow horse at a quarter to six and rode out looking for a sunrise that was a half hour away. He met up with the rest of the crew

on the ride out to the woods where they would be cow hunting all day. They were a group of men who had never wanted to be anything but a cowboy. They ranged in age from 18 up to their late 40s. Most of this group had ridden a horse before they ever rode a school bus.

bunch of cows early and, with the help of the cow dogs, had worked their small herd out into the open where they could

part out the calves. One cowboy would drop a loop on an old mama cow to hold her back so his partner could rope her calf. As soon as a calf was caught, it was earmarked, given a dose of wormer and castrated if it was a bull calf. The last step before turning it loose to mama was a touch of the branding iron. Before that calf quit bellering, the cowboy was headed to the next calf. The whole day went pretty much the

worked out in the open, rope the calves, doctor them up and get back in the saddle. Lunch was a welcome break for a weary crew and their horses. They would spend an hour or so in the shade somewhere out on the ranch where they were gathering cattle. One thing that you could be sure of, old Tom or Bill was sure to pull some kind of joke on somebody in the crew.

youngest, but you could be sure it was going to happen. The joking was rarely mean or of a malicious nature, just a little cowboy humor. They had worked around a big cypress

head that afternoon and all of the crew had got a good view of a bolt of lightning that struck a pine tree about a half of a mile away. Of course, no one got real wet in the brief thunderstorm that came with the lightning, cause all cowboys carried a slicker rolled up and latched to his saddle. The rain helped cool things down for the rest of the afternoon. The cowboys turned their ponies toward to barn with a

THE WORKING COWBOY


The cowboy had a knot on his head from a low limb that his horse had run under and a good rope burn across his hand from where he was a mite slow dallying his rope around the saddle horn with a good-sized cow on the other end. But, he knew that both of them spots were a long way from his heart and he reckoned he would be ready to go again the next day.

Another account of day workers comes from Pershing Platt,

the father of my lifelong friend, John Platt. He had the following

experience as a teenager in the 1930s.

The cattle industry in Florida was in real trouble from the effects of the Texas Fever Tick. The cattle herds of Florida were still out on open range and it was mandatory that all cattle be gathered and ran through a dip tank to kill the ticks.

The USDA provided help with this program and Mr. Platt was working on one of these crews. This crew of men were living out in the woods and hunting cattle every day. They slept out

were very likely to be wet most of the year and this was one of the wet years. The men had to search for a place that they could spread their bedroll in a dry spot to be able to sleep in some sort of comfort. Because they were working so far away from town, these

crews had a cook along to prepare meals for them. One evening when they were camped in a particularly wet area, someone decided to play a trick on the cook. He took the cook’s shoes and waded out into a little pond and left the shoes on a stump in the middle of the pond.

Early the next morning, there was no activity over near the

cowboys were expected to be in the saddle and ready to work at daylight. The cook always had a big breakfast ready early. Of course, by now every cowboy knew about the cook’s shoes. They began to call out, “Hey, where’s our breakfast? We got

to work. Hurry up!”

This is just a minor episode from the bygone era of Florida’s

cattle business. The challenge and eradication of the fever tick

was a huge and very necessary step to restore Florida’s cattle

herds to health.

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Back to School PHOTOCONTEST

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

Grace Lynn Miller

A panel of judges from the University of Florida’s Agricultural Communications’ graduate program selected the winning photo of Grace Lynn Miller checking her grandparent’s cows in Ruckersville, VA. Grace Lynn is 17 months old and the daughter of Doug and Sarah Miller of Sebring. Sarah says, “Grace Lynn is not afraid of cows, she would touch their noses if I let her!” Congrats Grace Lynn, Sarah and Doug! We would like to thank our sponsors for the awesome prize pack and to all the parents who took their kids out to experience ag!

You can view all the submissions and some of the stories behind them on our Facebook page at facebook.com/HeartlandMagazine

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

a hit! Throughout the month of August, we hosted a “Back to School Photo Contest” featuring kids in agriculture and asked parents to submit their most creative photos. They sure didn’t let us down with 58 submissions!

Taylor Oil Company

www.facebook.com/HeartlandMagazine


Photo ContestHonorable MentionsWill and Wyatt Fryer, sons of Jason and Olivia Fryer of Sebring. The picture was taken at Bone Farms, one of the boy’s favorite places to spend time.

Olivia said, “The photo was a gift for my dad, Bill Bone, the boys’ grandfather. We wanted to recreate the famous ‘You been farming long?’

own childhood. It was a picture my dad and granddad really liked, so we thought it would be a fun gift for Dad to have a version with his own grandsons in it.”

This picture is of Clayte Davis, son of Marshall and Courtney Davis, taken in Basinger, FL. Clayte is riding his daddy’s childhood tractor and is wearing his Great Great Grandpas cowboy hat.

This is Carter John Gordon riding his ‘horse’ in his Papa and Mimi’s, Greg and Reggie Gordon’s, cow pens with some purebred Angus yearlings. He is 2 years old in the picture, but is currently 3 1/2. He still loves to go the pasture and see the cows.

In this photo, Marlee Grace Brooker, daughter of Bear and Laci, (1 year old) is checking microjets in her Valencia orange grove in Frostproof. She loves to be out in the grove with her Daddy. Laci said, “When Marlee was born, we purchased this property and in her honor formed MGB Groves (which is what her shirt says). As a family, we work in the grove in the evenings and on weekends. The

savings account for Marlee’s college education. Marlee dearly loves working in the grove and does not mind getting dirty at all. Our sweet girl always sports a bow in her hair whether she’s going to the mall or checking

and enjoys planting trees with her Daddy and watching her oranges grow!



TALKINGBEEF CATTLEwith Florida Cattlemen’s Association President Woody Larson

by Robbie Summer

While the last name “Larson” is commonly associated with the dairy industry, Louis E. “Woody” Larson, Jr. is also heavily involved in beef cattle production. I recently had the opportunity to visit with Woody at his family’s ranch in Okeechobee, and learned more about their beef cattle operation.


Born in Broward County, Woody spent his youth working on the family dairy operation in Palm Beach County. They relocated to Okeechobee while he was attending

interested in beef cattle. My dad had some many years ago, and my brother and my sons all have beef cattle in addition to the dairy herds,” Woody

herd of twenty bred cows in the mid-

loan with help from Elder Sumner,

That’s how it all started for me.”

Woody and his wife Grace live at the Dixie Ranch north of town, which is where the majority of their beef cattle are raised. The ranch property is part of the original Dixie Cattlemen’s Association of South Florida, a federally funded agricultural development program that purchased land from the Kissimmee River to St. Lucie County. The original “Dixie” was operated as a cooperative beef cattle ranch that provided support and a competitive position for its

when the government ordered the cooperative to shut down. Their home is the original building that was constructed in 1920, with some remodeling completed in the 1940s and again in 1995. “That’s when we added air conditioning!” shares Woody. The Larsons appreciate the history of the land, which was purchased by their family in 1974. “We used to grow out dairy heifers here but in the late 1980s and early 1990s it became necessary to change the land use due to environmental

to beef cattle production in a more meaningful way – as more than a hobby.” Woody is still involved

family owned dairies, but through the years beef cattle have become a

business.



When asked how he typically spends

job partly because it is different every

possible, being around the cattle and the other people who are around the cattle. Our operation has grown to the

dairy who make day to day decisions.”

While many beef producers sell their calves straight off the cows, Larson chooses to wean calves for 45 to 60 days before selling them. “Since there is less stress placed on the calves all at once, they typically do better for our buyers. We’re averaging close to 600 pound calves, which helps our bottom line too,” he shares.

They also participate in the Northern Everglades Payment for Environmental Services program. Through a cooperative agreement with the South Florida Water Management District, Larson pays for structures on their land that

of the year and in return, the District

pays them for water storage rights. The arrangement provides a positive long-term environmental result for the land.

Woody was recently elected President of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. While there are several issues facing the industry that

individuals may feel helpless in resolving such as drought, animal

laws, he has three simple goals that he is asking for support from fellow cattlemen in order to achieve. “We can’t make it rain, but we can show up and support our industry and those who can make an impact.”

First, attend the FCA Ranch Rodeo Finals that will be held September 28th and 29th in Kissimmee. Proceeds from the event go to support the FCA Foundation, which in turn works to promote, protect and preserve the Florida cattle industry through research, scholarships, environmental stewardship, and other endeavors.

The two-day event includes the Ranch Rodeo Finals each night at 7:00pm, a Ranch Horse Competition at 10:00am Saturday, and the Cowboy Heritage Festival from 10:00am to 5:00pm on Saturday. This family and budget friendly entertainment is both fun and educational, with arts and crafts displays and living history exhibits. Rodeo tickets are


just $10, with kids aged 10 and under

Competition and Heritage Festival are

neighbors to enjoy the camaraderie, eat some delicious barbeque, and support the industry.

Convention and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trade Show will be held in Tampa February 6th – 9th 2013. This event only comes to Florida about once every ten years, so this is our chance to showcase our

at least spend a day and experience some of the educational sessions, not to mention the largest beef cattle trade show in the nation,” Woody said. Themed “Boots on the Bay” it’s sure to be worth your time to attend!

Third, participate in the FCA Legislative Quarterly trip to Tallahassee next March. “Since this is an election year, we will have a

the dust settles we need to develop

relationships and talk to them. We need to be proactive in order to protect our livelihoods. We are an association of members with a common interest in beef cattle production. Part of protecting and promoting that way of

laws and regulations pertaining to issues like water use and property rights.”

but a priority nonetheless, is the fact that Okeechobee will be hosting the FCA Quarterly meeting September 12th - 14th. Meetings will be held

Williamson Conference Center

“All members are encouraged to attend and participate,” said

members.”

Woody Larson’s passion for agriculture and the way of life that it provides is obvious through his devotion to his family and the industries they

to have been helped through the years by many friends who are great cattlemen like Pete Clemons, Jeff Clemons, Cary Lightsey, and J.C. Bass, just to

the opportunity to do the same for others.”


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On a recent Saturday afternoon, my

Patch in Lake Placid in search of a special birthday gift. As luck would have it, we chose the same Saturday that Keith Goodson made his annual visit to repair damage done by time and the elements to his murals. We found Keith on top of

small crack in the “Our Citrus Heritage” mural, which had been completed in 1997. Just as visitors are drawn to the murals, we were drawn to the artist and after a short introduction and opening questions, Keith happily shared his passion for art and his life journey so far.

less traveled. He left his job as Stage Manager for Carpenters Home Church and, instead of attending Ringling College of Art and Design as planned, he accepted a job to paint a mural in Lake Placid, Florida. The quaint town of Lake Placid started the mural project to share the history of their community and entice visitors to come and stay awhile. Keith grew up just north of Lake Placid in Avon Park and was intrigued with the idea of being a part of enhancing the town and using his talent on such a grand “bigger than life” scale. Keith told his

4 years of experience from art class at Avon Park High School, a passion for art, and a God given talent, at the age of 21 Keith began another journey. The

the prestigious Air Brush magazine’s national competition for billboards and

murals. Upon its completion, the city immediately commissioned Keith for the “Cracker Trail Cattle Drive” which was the largest at 175’ wide by 30’ high and included audio sounds of thunder and mooing cattle. Since 1993, the Lake Placid Mural Society project has expanded to include a total of 41 murals, 11 of which Keith created.

Since that detour, the artist that likes to see an ever-changing palette has changed his course but never his passion. Keith has a passion to use his talent to make a difference in the next generation by

the path and purpose God planned for them. Keith and Jennifer use their artistic gifts to mentor, teach, motivate and train through workshops, conferences and special event venues around the world.

just a few of the stops where they have had the opportunity to leave their mark in the world.

KEITH GOODSONFlorida

ARTIST By Holly Taylor

LO

CAL A

RTIS

T

Seminole Dugouts


far, in addition to the murals in Lake Placid, you can view some of Keith’s work much closer to home. “Light of the World”, a 27’ by 12’ original oil on canvas of the Nativity was purchased by Jan Crouch, co-founder of Trinity

then had it installed at The Holy Land Experience in Orlando. Keith is also doing guest appearances there and painting a 5’ by 7’ face of Christ in 4 minutes on a rotating canvas!

Commissioned art pieces are the latest direction in this journey as he recently completed a 20’ by 40’ old Florida scene in the home of Robert Buker, CEO of US Sugar, in Clewiston. South Florida College in Avon Park is another proud owner of several large commissioned pieces that are displayed on the campus grounds.

Keith’s multi-faceted talent is just as prevalent in the small details of his hand painted series which incorporates glass, light, metal and precious stones in intricate strokes which seem to take on a life of their own. When viewing these

could reach out and share a sip of tea or coffee with the unknown person whose hand was holding the cup ever so still. The depth of the faces in his portraits allows a glimpse into the thoughts of his subjects. “After you master your technique, then the real expression comes out,” Keith says.

Keith is interested in pursuing more commissioned work, especially paintings depicting cattle and its

pictures of scenes he wants to create on canvas. Growing up in the Heartland has provided the memories and images for many of his outdoor life projects, but at 41 years old, Keith still has a lot of pieces to complete.

Keith and Jennifer currently live in Auburndale with their three children,

for Creation House Ministries. The Goodsons are using their artistic gifts in their church through Bible studies that include art sessions and a creative dance ministry. Keith is also developing

a summer program for youth with plans to travel abroad and expose them to different cultures and ancient art history. Keith Goodson’s life is an ever-changing masterpiece but there is no doubt that the hand holding the paintbrush is God’s.

Next time you are in Lake Placid, stop by Lake Placid Family Restaurant for a hearty meal, sweet tea and your copy of The Murals of Lake Placid Guide for $3.00. The Mural Society is celebrating its 20th year and this would be a wonderful time to experience a piece of our Heartland culture by taking the mural tour with family and friends. You can also pick up the guide at businesses throughout Lake Placid, including the Chamber of Commerce, Caladium Arts and Crafts Co-operative, Publix and Winn Dixie.

To see more of Keith’s art, visit his website at www.keithgoodson.com. You can also contact him through his Facebook page or call 863-585-8937 for information on commissioned art or their Creation House Ministries projects.



Find details atwww.RanchRodeoFinals.com

THE BUCK STARTS HERE2012 Florida Ranch Rodeo Finals

and FREE Cowboy Heritage FestivalSilver Spurs Arena, Osceola Heritage Park,

Kissimmee, FloridaRanch Rodeo Tickets:

$10 per person, Kids 10 & under FREE!

Friday, September 28Ranch Rodeo Finals – 7 p.m.

Saturday, September 29Cowboy Heritage Festival

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.Ranch Rodeo Finals – 7 p.m.

Cowboy Heritage FestivalCelebrate and Learn about Florida’s

Ranching HistoryFun & Educational - Arts & Crafts Displays

Living History Exhibits

Lodging FacilitiesAsk For Florida Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo block price.

Clarion Resort & Water Park – 877-846-2221Holiday Inn Express & Suites – 407-997-1700

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center – 407-586-2000

Find Information about Kissimmee areaactivities at VisitKissimmee.com

orwww.floridacattlemen.org

RODEO SPECIALH

arde

e

Hardee County Cattlemen’s Association held their 4th Annual Ranch Rodeo on Friday, July 20th and Saturday, July 21st, 2012 at the HCCA arena in Wauchula. The events included

team sorting, calf branding, trailer loading, double mugging, and bronc riding for the big cowboys and cowgirls, and mutton busting for the little cowboys and cowgirls.

19 teams participated in this event with Markham Ranch, which consists of team members Dennis Carlton Jr., Wesley Markham, Dalton Edwards,

place. They received $1000 and the HCCA

which consists of team members Dawson Cantu, Logan Perry, Luke Cantu, CJ Parker, and Mandy Cantu won 2nd place. They received $500. SMR, consisting of Jason McKendree, Steve John, Travis Dorman, Tiffany John, and Clint Thum split 3rd place with M & N Cattle, consisting of Christy Newsome, Peck Harris, Matt Smith, Cody Robinson, and Josh Brown. Both teams split the $250 3rd place prize. Lane Warren was the mutton buster winner and received a matching buckle, like the championship team.

Cattlemen’s Association State Ranch Rodeo Finals & Heritage Festival in Kissimmee, to be held on September 28-29, 2012.

by Darin Hughes

HARDEERanch Rodeo

1st Place -

Markham Ranch,

Dennis Carlton,

Wesley Markham,

Dalton Edwards,

Raybon Durrance

2nd Place -

7 S Bar, Inc

Tie for 3rd -

SMR

Tie for 3rd -

M&N Cattle

2012-2013 FCA Sweetheart

Taylor Bolin from Hardee County



The Dash for Cash barrel racing series held at the Brighton Seminole Reservation Fred Smith Rodeo Arena featured its

barbeque dinner and awards ceremony.

that began in September 2011, tracking the points of member’s rider and horse combinations from

season-end winners. Open Division riders of all ages competed for prizes including headstalls, saddle pads, halters, hay bags and other items that were awarded to the top seven in each division, with trophy saddles going to the division winners. Sweet Cypress Ranch, Gator Feed Company, Custom Graphics & Signs, and the Fred Smith Rodeo Arena sponsored the saddles. Trophy belt buckles were awarded to the youth division winners, with additional prizes like bracelets, halters, gift

in each division. Youth buckles were sponsored by Mobetta Conversions and Fred Smith Rodeo Arena, with many other local businesses and individuals donating items and money to make the awards possible.

The youth series for competitors aged 14 years

skipping to one second slower for the second

Jumper and Classy were tied in points, but Dayra posted the fastest time in an exciting runoff giving

Birdy from LaBelle, and 3D Courtney McCreary and Trinity from Okeechobee.

being split by half-second breaks. Open division champions were: 1D Heather Clemons and Peanut from Okeechobee, 2D Christy Flippen and Reba from Okeechobee, 3D Courtney Kitching and Beaudatious from Lake Worth, and 4D Robbi Sumner and Peponita’s Bay Belle from Okeechobee. The next Dash for Cash series is scheduled to begin October 13th. Visit www.rezrodeo.com or contact Kayleen Murphy at 863.467.6039 for more information.

RODEO SPECIALby Robbi Sumner

Dash for Cash Barrel Racing Series Final Results

Das

h fo

r Cas

h



First celebrated in 2005, the National Day of the American Cowboy was founded by American Cowboy magazine who lobbied for the passage of a national resolution designating the fourth Saturday of every July as a permanent celebration on the national calendar in order “to preserve, protect and promote our cowboy and Western heritage” and “honor cowboys and cowgirls for their enduring contribution to the courageous, pioneering spirit of America.”

The Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association and Okeechobee Main Street again came together to co-sponsor a celebration of that heritage and spirit on July 27th and 28th. The fun kicked off Friday evening at the Agri Civic Center with a barbeque competition, a variety of vendor booths, and the

including Ranch Bronc Riding, Trailer Loading, Team Sorting, Team Branding, and Team Tying.

On Saturday afternoon, a three-mile cattle drive through the middle of town on Highway 70 began at Eli’s Western Wear and ended at the Agri Civic

spectators. Trail bosses for this year’s drive were the

Seminole Tribe of Florida Chair James E. Billie and Brighton Representative Andrew J. Bowers, Jr.

Round two of the Ranch Rodeo began shortly after the trail drive ended Saturday evening. When the dust settled, the Cow Creek Ranch team of Bo Anastasio, Ernesto Franco, Julia Milburn, Justin Seagle, and Ladd Bass took home the Championship belt buckles and top cash prize. By winning the rodeo, they also

Rodeo Finals which will be held at the Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee on September 28th and 29th.

After the rodeo, musical entertainment was provided by South Florida band Burnt Biscuit, who is known for their versatility in playing everything from country to jazz and rock and roll.

According to Main Street’s Cindy Burdeshaw, approximately 3,000 to 4,000 people were in attendance at the two-day event, which is reported to have been

when the annual celebration began several years ago. Be sure to mark your calendar for the fourth Saturday in July 2013 for this action-packed family event!

2 0 1 2 N A T I O N A L D A Y O F T H E

AmericanCowboy

RODEO SPECIALO

keec

hobe

e

By Robbi Sumner


Don’t miss the boat on this exciting event!

Get Your Boots

on the Bay!

Pack your boots and head to Tampa, Florida for !e 2013 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show!

!is is the premier event for anyone in the cattle business- it’s the one you can’t a"ord to miss.

2013 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade ShowFebruary 6-9 Tampa, FL

www.beefusa.org

17-1547-2013ConvAdHalfPg.indd 1 6/11/2012 4:19:32 PM


The second year of the new Reality Ranch Youth Rodeo ended it’s season with the Finals on April 28, 2012, and

then held it’s banquet.The competitors, their parents and relatives gathered at the Ullrich-Nickerson Pavilion in Pioneer Park in Zolfo Springs for an evening

desserts, sweet tea, lots of prizes and the coveted All-Around Saddles for the male and female winners of the Tots, Junior, and Senior divisions. The stage was

Redding Nurseries, with a special photo area all “cowboyed-up” for that special Kodak moment.The banquet opened with a short speech and prayer by Randy Johnson of Reality Ranch

introduced was a special part of this Youth Rodeo – the Tiny Tots. These are the 3-6-year-olds who are just starting their rodeo careers, several with Mom, Dad or a friend running them on a lead line through the poles and around the barrels. For the goat-tying event, they are allowed to either tie

pulling a ribbon off of the goat’s

Reality Ranch Youth Rodeo is 2-year-old J.D. Scott of Myakka

Roughstock riders received their prizes next, from mutton busters, to calf and bull riders, and bareback riders. Shiny belt buckles went to the winner of each event/division. Next came the timed events, from breakaway roping, tie-down and buddy roping, and team roping, to barrel racing, pole bending, and goat tying.The special treat was that Taylor Bolin, the then Hardee County Cattleman’s Sweetheart, and now the 2012-2013 Florida Cattlemen’s Sweetheart, handed out each and every prize. The teenage cowboys sure grinned like little school boys when they got the opportunity to be on stage and hug Taylor!

the announcement of the saddle winners drew near. First was the presentation of the Reserve All-Around Champions, with Ryleigh Adams of Wauchula and Okeechobee and Cameron Cantu of Zolfo Springs winning for the Tots, Savannah Nelson of Arcadia and Sam Morgan of the Weekely Bros. – Davie Pro Rodeo family winning for the Junior Division, and Hailey Andrews and Jake Bolin both from Wauchula winning for the Senior Division.

AND THE WINNERS ARE – Lacey Nail of Port St. Lucie and Cayden Newsome of Myakka City were the All-Around Champions for the Tots, Ashlan Lipe of Arcadia and Dawson Cantu of Zolfo Springs took the title for the Juniors Division, and Madison Crosby of Myakka City and Pat Carlton of Wauchula taking home the saddles for the Seniors Division. Particularly wonderful was that Pat’s grandfather, through

the Seniors saddle, so Doyle Carlton awarded the saddle to his grandson, Pat.

RODEO SPECIAL

Reality Ranch Youth Rodeo Awards Banquet

Reali

ty R

anch



SPECIAL FEELINSFoaled April 1, 1986, the Quarter Horse stallion “Special Feelins” made quite an impact on barrel racing, not just locally, but throughout the industry.

SPEC

IAL F

EATU

RE

Remembering

Sired by Special Effort and out of Funny Feelin, Special Feelins was born to race and had a AAA speed index of 93. Special Effort

surpass $1 million in earnings, and is the only 2-year old to ever win all three summer futurities at Ruidoso Downs and take the Triple Crown. Named the 1981 World Champion, Special Effort went on to win the Grade 1 Kansas Derby as a 3-year-old, before retiring with earnings of $1,219,949 and a race record of 13 wins in 14 starts.

Gary and Linda Jones of Bowling Green purchased Special Feelins from Jack Booream as a 4-year old.

According to Linda, “For the past 45 years we’ve always had a stud horse. We were looking for something that could run, and his breeding and good looks drew us to him.” The dark bay that stood 16 hands tall went on to prove that he could not only run, but also work cows and produce outstanding offspring.

“When we bought him, he was just track-broke but he fell in love with cattle and loved to work cows,” shared Linda. “Gary says he was the

best cow horse he has ever sat on, even though he was just race bred - Gary even competed on him at some team pennings.”

Those familiar with the stud horse remember him as “Goose” and I asked Linda how he got that nickname. “Shortly after we got him Gail Burnett came over and Gary was riding him in the cow pens. Gail asked ‘is this the Goose that’s going to lay the golden egg?’ and it stuck – he was Goose!”

In time Goose went on to lay many, many golden eggs of sorts, siring multiple barrel racing champions, the most notable to date being his very

Snow. “Dee Dee”, as she came to be known, was sold in 1997 to the Jud Little Ranch in Ardmore, Oklahoma. In 2003, Janae Ward-Massey began

rodeo season, and the two went on to win the 2003 Women’s Professional Rodeo Association Barrel Racing World Championship and Wrangler National Finals Rodeo Average Championship, earning $111,908 and winning the 9th go-round at the WNFR.

“Even if a colt is good you don’t know if he’ll produce, but Goose

by Robbi Sumner


RODEO SPECIALcrossed him with race-bred, cutting-bred, and foundation mares, and he crossed well with everything – particularly with Wonder Otoe mares.”

Ernestly Special, a 10-year old gelding owned by Dodi and Dave Ralph, carried Dave to sweep the 2011 Florida State National Barrel Horse Association Championships. The duo is the only team to ever win the Senior Division, both go-rounds of the Open, and the Open Finals at that event. Six other of Goose’s offspring also won checks in the First Division that year. Wee Feelin Special, a six-

Rylee Elliott to the Youth Championship at the 2012 NBHA State show. The two also won the second go-round at the NBHA Youth World show in Perry this July, besting almost 700 other entries.

In 2005, Linda says that Goose started acting funny, as if he couldn’t see well or something, and he was taken to Surgi-Care Center for Horses in Brandon for evaluation. It was determined that he had had a stroke, and he suffered

was made to euthanize him and he is buried under a big oak tree on the property where he had lived the past 15

stud horse, Fisher.

Gary and Linda now stand My Special Dynasty, a 2005 son of Special Feelins and Dyna Snow, and full brother to past WPRA World Champion Dynas Plain Special. Nicknamed “Syd”, he shares many of his sire’s favorable traits, and the Joneses are excitedly waiting to see his babies grow up and perform. Says Linda, “Special Feelins’ legacy in producing winning barrel horses continues. He was the best investment in a horse we could have ever dreamed of, and we loved him dearly.”

2012-2013 Florida Beef and Jr. Beef Ambassadors Selected

ON FRIDAY JULY 20, Alex Lucas was selected as the 2012-13 Florida Beef Ambassador in Kissimmee. Alex is from Lake County, runner-up was Harley Zoeckler of Polk County and in third place was Ali Thomas from Hillsborough County.

Cole Bronson of Highlands County was selected as the Jr. Beef Ambassador with Mathew Staples, from Lake County selected as runner-up. Also competing in the contest were Shelbi McCall, Bailey Stallard, Erin Johnson, and Hunter Oler. These kids did a great job and I would like to congratulate all of them.

The contest consisted of several segments that involved answering questions on consumer media and current issues in the beef industry today, which tested their knowledge of the industry. The seniors prepared a classroom presentation to be taught to elementary age children on Beef. The seniors were also given an article on a current issue and were given 30 minutes to write a response. They were scored on each event, their scores were combined and the contestant with the overall highest score was the winner.

Alex Lucas will now compete in the National contest in Sacramento, California, in September. Where I am sure she will do a great job.

If you would like Alex or Cole to speak at an event, please email Alex at [email protected] or Cole at [email protected].



BIOSFlorida CattlemenSweetheart year old college student studying mass communications

the opportunity to represent such an amazing industry full of honest, hardworking and supportive people.

Kissimmee later this month where we will be able to see all of the top working ranch cowboys do what they do

the rodeos both nights and in the cattle drive. During the

to attend Junior Florida Cattlemen’s beef preview shows, as well as the steer selection day for the Florida State Fair, in preparation for the showing season. All of the junior cattlemen and their animals were in tip top shape!

looking forward to having the chance to share my knowledge of the beef and cattle industry with many eager children, and maybe even a few teachers. The ag

make even more new ones! Not to give away the

will be a few special visitors from down in the Bayou!

me be a part of, or speak at, please do not hesitate to contact

much for your support and commitment to our industry! September 2012 Heartland In!eFieldMagazine 63

FCA Ranch Rodeo Finals Team Bios

The Polk County Cat-tlemen’s Association selected the Sullivan Ranch Rodeo Team to represent them in the Central Florida Fair Invitational Cattle-men’s Ranch Rodeo, and they came away with top honors claim-ing the overall win and punching an early

qualifying ticket to the Ranch Rodeo Finals. This team competes in Ranch Rodeos across the state and can always be seen proudly wearing the FC brand (Earl and Marlene Sullivan’s brand) on Gator orange and blue Shirts. Team Members are Hunter and Jessica Holley, Dusty Holley, James Bryant and Dusty Harbin.

Central Florida Fair Invitational Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo

Polk County Cattlemen

The Fulford Cattle Company team consists of three Okeechobee born and raised cowboys, a top horse trainer, and one very handy cowgirl. The members of this team all have a love for ranching and enjoy competing in events that are a daily practice in their line of work. Fulford Cattle Company, located in Okeechobee County, is cow/calf operation owned and managed by Bobby Fulford, Sr.This team includes Bobby Joe Fulford, Cole Fulford, team strategizer Lee Watford, Jason Hanchey and Sage Adams. Good luck y’all!

Chalo - Nitka Ranch RodeoFulford Cattle Company

Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Ranch RodeoLazy JB Ranch

The Lazy JB Ranch is representing the Okeechobee Flor-

operated by Janet and Bryan Storey and located in Clew-iston Florida. The Lazy JB is a family-owned opera-tion and runs cross-bred cattle. Representing the ranch will be Buck Lee, Clayton Brown, Allen Lanier, Dusty Savoie, and Leslie Storey Pryor. Thank you Kathy Gregg for your photography.

Curryville Ranch Rodeo Renegade Rodeo Company

Renegade Rodeo Co. was established in the late 1980’s by Eugene Carter III. Renegade Rodeo supplies bulls for rodeos, bull ridings and other rodeo events; they also raise bucking bulls and beef cattle. The team consists of Cody Carter, Ev-erett Carter, Daniel Bell, Audie Stokes, and the woman that keeps the team straight, Audie’s wife, Carmel Stokes.

Submitted by theTe

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BIOS

RODEO SPECIALTeam

Bios

Tiger Bay and Duncan trucking is proud to represent the

family owned & operated by Don and Cynthia Hall from Arcadia. This South Florida ranch runs commercial cross-bred cattle and has been in business for over 20+ years. The Ranch is partnering with Duncan Trucking, owned and operated by Bushrod and Pam Duncan. Bushrod has hauled cattle and horses all his life and Pam works hard keeping Bushrod straight. Their team consists of Billy Adams, Carson Story, Cody Story, Marshall Godsey, and Christi Pryor. The Arcadia Rodeo Association, DeSoto Sr. FFA, and the Lil’ Cowpokes association wishes this team the best of luck at the Ranch Rodeo Finals. Thank you Kathy Gregg for the Photos!

Desoto County Cattlemen’s Association Ranch RodeoTiger Bay Ranch & Duncan Cattle Trucking

SMR Farms is a division of Schroeder-Man-atee Ranch, Inc. and was established in 2005.

consists of Citrus, Cattle, Turf, and Trees. It also has a Turf operation in St. Cloud located on Deseret Ranch. The team representing SMR Farms and the Florida State Fair Ranch

-son McKendree, Stevie John, Travis Dor-man, Coy Mueller, and “Queen Bee” team mom Tiffany John. Thanks Kathy Gregg for the use of your photos.

Mid Florida Ranchers Ranch RodeoChristmas Creek Farm Service

Hardee County Cattlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo

Markham CattleThe Christmas Creek Farm Service team were the win-ners of the Mid-Florida Ranchers Ranch Rodeo. The CCFS is owned and operated by Chuck Mack, his wife Angela and their two precious youngins’ Makayla, 14 and Samuel, 5. They live in Christmas where they oper-ate CCFS as a family business and love every part of it—from mending fences to penning the mama cows from an airboat or horse. The team representing this family-run business consists of Chuck, Charles “Corky” Paschal, the team’s MVR (Most Valuable Rider) Kenny Raney, Cory Carbajal and Jennifer Bolin.

Wesley Markham of Romeo, Florida, manages Markham Cattle. He mostly has longhorns on the ranch but is still learning the ropes. The Markham Cattle team won the Hardee County Cattlemen’s Association Ranch

Hayward and the Wesley Markham Ranch right hand (wo)man Rabon Durrance.

Florida State Fair Ranch RodeoSMR Farms LLC


RODEO SPECIALTe

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The Audubon Ranch Rodeo Team consists of William Perry, Peck Harris, Robert Fus-sell, Matt Smith, and “Queenie” Dallas Roberts. The team said about Dallas, “Loy-al as an ole cur dog and never forgetting where she came from, we can’t be more proud to have a gal like her to complete our team.” Good luck to the Audubon Ranch team representing the Hendry County Cat-tlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo in the Finals!

Hendry County Cattlemen’s Association Ranch RodeoAudubon Ranch Inmate Ranch is based out of South Florida and is

headed up by Doug Bronson. This team is represent-ing the Lee County Ranch Rodeo, as they acted swift and demonstrated skill when working cattle in the

Tomlinson,all-around hand Tommy Rodgers, Preston Stokes, and the barrel racer from Okeechobee, Brit-tany Simmons. Thank you Kathy Gregg for your pho-tos!

Lil Cowpokes Rodeo Association Ranch Rodeo

Inmate Ranch

Lake-Sumter County Cattlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo Rafter G Bar Livestock

Manatee County Cattlemen’s Association Ranch Rodeo

Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Inc.

Paul Grimaldi and wife Cindy of Groveland, Florida own and operate Rafter G Bar Livestock, a primary cow/calf operation. Paul also owns A American Bond-ing in South Lake County. Rafter G Bar was the 2010 Florida Ranch Rodeo Champions. Their team heading to the Finals this year includes Paul, Paul and Cindy’s son Michael Grimaldi, his sister Kaitlyn, Cliff Light-sey, and PRCA cowboy Juan Alcazar.

The winning team of the Manatee County Cattlemen’s Association Rodeo on March 3 was Schroeder-Mana-tee Ranch, Inc. The team is made up of Steve John, his wife and Florida Cattlewomen Past President Lindsey John, Dusty Crosby, Luke Cantu and William Perry. Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Inc. (SMR) is located on the west coast of Florida. It straddles Manatee and Sarasota Counties and is approximately 30,000 acres. Thanks Kathy Gregg for the use of her photos.


RODEO SPECIALTeam

Bios

CJ’s Cow Crew was the winning team at the Osceola County Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo

foreman Beau Anastasio, Cecil Anastasio, sixth-generation Floridian Ladd Bass, Justin Feagle and 21-year-old Sami Sanderson.

Osceola County Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo

CJ’S Cow CrewNorman Brothers Cattle Company owned and operated by Adam and Andy Norman, run cattle in Lakeland and Ft. Pierce Florida and is proud to have a team riding for their brand in the Ranch Rodeo Finals! Fred Waters usu-ally serves as team captain, but his responsibilities at the Finals do not allow him to compete, he leaves the Norman Brothers Cattle Company team in the capable hands of J.B. Wynn. The other team members include J.B.’s broth-er, Stewart Wynn, Scott Shoupe, Brandon Barthle and fourth-generation Florida Cracker from Osceola County

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association Trade Show and Ranch RodeoNorman Brothers Cattle Company

Grace Ag is an agribusiness based out of St. Lucie County owned by Jonathan Schopp of Fort Pierce. Starting this cattle operation a little over a year ago, Jonathan chose the name Grace in honor of his grand-father Bill Grace. The members of the ranch rodeo team, along with Schopp, are team captain Brad Moss, a Moore Haven cowboy; Matt Davis, a day worker and another Moore Haven cowboy; Okeechobee’s toughest cowboy Bobby Lines and local all-around hand Clint Davis. This team has only one thought pro-cess when they unload their horses and ride off. The team doesn’t just go to the ranch rodeos to hear their name called; they go to win.

St. Lucie County Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo

Grace Ag

J & J Farms from Romeo, Florida. J & J Farms is a multi-faceted operation that produces watermelon, peanuts, and commercial beef cattle. It is owned and operated by Jesse Strickland. The team members that will be representing

Hiers, Dalton Edwards, Andy Morgan, and Ashley Bel-lamy.

Williston Ranch RodeoJ & J Farms


Florida’s climate has proven a perfect environment for producing all types of marketable food sources. While most are for human consumption, some are not. Mild temperatures and an abundance of ag-friendly communities make our state an ideal choice for those involved in raising just about anything from the mundane to the exotic. That said, many would never imagine that an insect - such as a cricket - would join their ranks.

Lazy H Bait

While raising crickets won’t replace cattle ranching in Hendry County

anytime soon, there is a growing need for it as evidenced by the expansion underway at Lazy-H-Bait in LaBelle. “We’re trying to upgrade and make improvements,’ states Brad Ross, the farm’s proprietor. “We have way

our biggest problem.”

That’s hard to believe considering a whopping 1.5 million crickets a week are shipped to customers via the United States Postal Service and UPS. In fact, Lazy-H-Bait is the

customer behind local government.

The crickets are shipped in containers complete with air holes and slices of potato, which provide both food and moisture during shipment. This helps ensure they arrive at their destination healthy and in good shape.

The establishment is attended to seven days a week by Ross, his wife, Pam, and nine employees. Ross bought the business just two years ago. The operation itself, which has been supplying crickets to a wide variety of customers for 22 years, is contained within four buildings. The

department are housed on property as well as the breeding, incubating and nurturing facilities. Even though the nursery contains some 600,000 baby crickets (also referred to as pinheads) at any one time, expansion plans call for 100 additional custom-made bins to be added to the operation. Ross says the majority of those bins have already been put to use. “But when

really good shape.”

One would assume all the crickets

bait. And while the majority is bred for just that purpose, many are also fed to birds and other species. Pet stores and other pet related-businesses buy the crickets on a regular basis. “The crickets are fed to everything from toucans to ducks. The range of birds is amazing,” says Ross. “And some people feed them to monkeys, but most are fed to reptiles, lizards and turtles.”

LEFT: Bryan Trejo and his sister, Thalia Leon, in the midst of feeding the super worms.

BOTTOM: Aberlin Hernandez carefully prepares a container of approximately 1,000 crickets for shipment.

by Cindy Cutright


Cricket size is key to honing a successful business and one of the reasons for the recent expansion. Crickets typically range in length from 1/8th of an inch (baby) to 1” (adult) and have a life span of 10 to 12 weeks. “The greater demand is for the adults by far,” states Ross. “But different people have different requirements. If we don’t have the crickets available in the right sizes, it doesn’t meet the customer’s needs.”

The South American Dart Frog is a prime example. This specie of frog, which produces the poison used on the tips of poison darts (hence the name), are so tiny they only eat the smallest of crickets. On the other hand, pet lizards known as bearded dragons prefer adult crickets, which have attained the largest and most popular sizes (3/4” to 1”).

Though the crickets are shipped all over the country, Ross says, “85% of our business is here in Florida.” He explains that while there are several thriving cricket operations in Georgia and Alabama, few are located in state. “There was a farm about 150 miles from us but the crickets contracted a virus and were wiped out.”

But crickets aren’t the only item on the menu at Lazy-H-Bait. Two additional buildings house the super worm operation.

The worms, which get their name from their size, are also raised there in volume. In fact, some 250,000 super worms are also sold each week, “strictly as food for reptiles, turtles and birds,” explains Ross.

other day and dine on just about any type of vegetable except onions (which don’t appeal to the worms). But unlike the crickets, Ross contends the worms are desired in one size and one size only. “The bigger the better.”

Ross, who migrated to LaBelle from life in the corporate world, says both have their advantages and disadvantages. Maintaining Lazy-H-Bait “is just constant work seven days a week. There is no reprieve.” But on the upside, he enjoys working for himself.

With the help of two administrative assistants, Rochelle Miller and Sindie Van Wagner, Ross handles sales in what

which include the installation of yet another 100 bins, are complete, Lazy-H-Bait personnel can anticipate getting a great deal busier. Check out the company’s website (still under construction) at www.lazyhbait.com

The front office crew at Lazy-H-Bait take a break. (Left to right) Sindie Van Wagner, Rochelle Miller and proprietor, Brad Ross.


The Florida FFA is pleased to an-nounce the 2012 FFA Hall of Fame Inductees. The 2012 inductees are Harold Ray Clark, Alfred Rankin Cox, Jr. (deceased), Donald Charles Hurst (deceased), Gary Doyle Lee and Winton Oziel Whittle. Gary Doyle Lee was born to Olen & Rosa Lee of O’Brien, Florida, as one of eight children, on Oc-tober 4, 1946. He grew up on their family farm and graduated from Branford High School in 1964. Following high school, he enrolled at Lake City Junior

College completing his AA degree. He and twin brother, Carey, ran the farm while in high school and junior col-

was active in the FFA. He received his State FFA Degree.

While attending the University of Florida, he and brothers Carey and Jimmy were members of Alpha Gamma Rho frater-nity. Upon graduating, he received the J.F. Williams Memo-rial scholarship and began teaching at Fort Meade High School with last years’ Hall of Fame inductee, Tom Cochrane. Follow-ing seven years in the classroom, he served three years as Re-gional Consultant for Agribusiness Education living in Orlando.

He came to Highlands County in 1978 as Coordinator of Voca-tional Education and served in that capacity until his retirement in 2006 with a total of 38 years of dedicated service (33 plus 5 years in DROP). Since his retirement, he has continued on a part-time basis as a Resource Teacher for the school board and has mentored hundreds of students throughout the 4 middle schools and 3 high schools in Highlands County. His unique passion is teaching/training parliamentary procedure teams, often times working with 4-5 teams simultaneously. He’s coached 4 State Champion teams (3 high school and 1 middle school) and an additional 15 or so top 5 teams over the years. Another particular passion is assisting students with state and American

Gary was elected to the Florida FFA Alumni Board of Direc-tors in 1982 and has served continuously since then, includ-

ing president for two terms and over 20 years as secretary/treasurer. He also is a charter member of the Sebring FFA Alumni and has served as secretary since their charter was issued in 1987. Sebring has been a staunch supporter of the Florida FFA Foundation Harvest of Change and Advancing the Vision fundraisers and annually ranks as one of the top fund-raisers in the state. Sebring’s alumni consistently ranks in the

has received gold and silver emblems on their applications sub-mitted to National. He’s received the Alumni Legion of Merit Citation for 20 consecutive years and in 2011 received the Out-standing Achievement Award from the National Organization.

Gary has received the honorary State and American de-grees and has attended a total of 46 State Conven-tions, the last 45 without missing a single convention.Gary has attended 10 of the 11 Seasoned Owls an-nual reunions at Oleno since its inception in 2000. He has also attended the previous 5 Hall of Fame Induc-tion ceremonies and he nominated two of its inductees.

“Florida FFA owes an immense debt of gratitude to these outstanding leaders,” said Adam Putnam, Commis-sioner of Agriculture. “Their dedicated service in agri-culture education helped make FFA the outstanding stu-dent organization recognized throughout the State.”Bill Hamm, President of the Florida FFA Foundation Board of Directors states “these individuals are to be high-ly commended for their years of service and dedication to the enhancement of agricultural education and FFA.”The recipients will be inducted into the Florida FFA Hall of Fame during the sixth annual awards celebration Monday, October 1, 2012 at the Florida FFA Leadership Training Center in Haines City.

The Florida FFA Hall of Fame began in 2007 to pay trib-ute to those outstanding individuals who have helped make the Florida FFA Association the premier youth leadership or-ganization in the state. Because of the support of these indi-viduals, Florida FFA has become home to more than 16,000 FFA members in more than 300 FFA chapters across the state. FFA members are engaged in a wide range of agri-cultural education activities, leading to more than 300 pro-fessional career opportunities in the agricultural industry.

Sebring’s Gary Lee Inducted into the

Florida FFA

Hall of Fame


FFA JournalAshley HassanArea VI State Vice President

During the week of June 25th through the 29th, I, along with 4,000 other FFA members gathered in Orlando, Florida to enjoy the 84th annual Florida FFA State Convention.

opportunities, and memories. I proudly represented the Okeechobee Brahman FFA Chapter as the area 6 State Vice-Presidential Candidate. Twelve total candidates spent the week campaigning to members and bringing enthusiasm before the leadership and award sessions. We also secured the doors for contests; consequently, we missed out on multiple meals. Needless to say, the

On the 29th of June, the lives of eight of those candidates were changed as they were blessed with the opportunity to serve Florida FFA as a newly

chapters from Malone to Miami and everywhere in between, these eight individuals will be the faces of Florida agriculture, agricultural education, and the Florida FFA Association. By God’s grace, I am one of these eight individuals. The team consists of: President Clayton Willis, Secretary Matthew Cantrell, Area I Vice President Shelby Calloway, Area II Vice President Sarah Trimm, Area III Vice President Justin Watson, Area IV Vice President Katie Hutchinson, Area V Vice President David Walden, and Area VI Vice President Ashley Hassan, Okeechobee Brahman FFA.Throughout the week, I experienced a roller coaster of emotions, from thanksgiving to humility upon

Okeechobee Brahman FFA Chapter

for the last four years, each being given

To start off our year of service, the

North Carolina for NLCSO (National Leadership Conference for State

I, along with the North and South

work on bonding our individual teams and how to successfully present a workshop. We also went to Gainesville for BLAST OFF (Building Leaders

my teammates and I got to work on our own individual abilities and how

team. The team was also blessed with the chance to venture to Iowa where we took multiple agriculture tours on family-owned operations as well as big production facilities all to better advocate American Agriculture. This year will truly be life changing for us, and I speak on behalf of the my team members when I say that we are so incredibly humbled and blessed to have this amazing new chapter in our lives to begin.


POLLINATION SERVICES Strong bees when you want them. We also have honey and skin care products made with honey and ingredients from the hive. Cantu Apiaries, 863-735-1679

WORM CASTINGS Add living microbes to improve your soil, use less water. Call Sean, Green Leaf Worm Farm, 941-626-5970. www.GreenLeafWormFarm.com

CHICKEN MANURE FOR SALE Dry and available immediately! Call Tim Ford or

AKC GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES 3 older females that are 11 weeks old, from

ready to go 7/21/12 when they are 8 weeks

email [email protected]

CHEAP METAL ROOFING Discount Metal Mart 8’X10’ sheets in stock! Prices from $5 to $12. Custom lengths available.

752-7088

DISCOUNT EQUINE SERVICE BUNDLE

Call 813-752-0224 or 813-951-0118

2006 JOHN DEERE (3320) INCLUDES: End loader, Box Blade, and Forks and an 18’ Trailer with ramps and electric brakes 200 Total usage hours Like new condition $17,900 Currently being stored in a covered building

2004 MASSEY FERGUSON 461-2-55 pto hp, 2 wheel drive, shuttle shift, hydraulic remotes. $10,500. Call 813-752-8722

42’ REACH FORKLIFT 3,952 hours. $29,469 Call 863-698-4114

ALL-PRO FLATBED TRAILER 7X20 with beavertail and ramps. Tandem 7,000 pd axels $2,500 Call Hank 863-559-8718

PORTABLE BULK FEEDERS Excellent Condition!!! Call 863-528-4356

NEW HOLLAND REPOS TN60A 2WD 2007 models w/front brooms and box blades. Never used, sold new $31,270. Sell $27,000, balance of warranty. 813-623-3673

1992 GREAT DANE FLATBED TRAILOR Measures 48’96”, Good Floor, Winches & Straps on both sides. Price $6500.00 Call Eugene Tolar 863-673-0048

3000# TOYOTA WAREHOUSE FLATBEDLow Hours, Side Shift, Excellent Condition, One Owner Price $9500.00

3 BARNS W/ 27 STALLS FOR RENT Ft. Ogden area. Call Lisa 941-234-7660.

2003 CATERPILLAR MT225 CHALLENGER TRACTOR 23 HP with 4 wheel drive making it much stronger and more versitile.2 ptos rear and middle. Used for mowing only so light wear- 833 hrs. $5,199 Excellent tractor for a small farm. Great condtion-barn kept. email for more pix:[email protected] 813-299-1635 Arcadia, Fl

2006 JOHN DEERE TRACTOR (3320) Used 200 Hrs. End Loader, Box Blade, and Forks, 18’ Trailer with ramps and electric brakes. All like

new condition - $17,900.00. Call 863-835-0757

2.26 BEAUTIFUL, PARTIALLY WOODED ACRES in northern Arcadia for sale. Zoned

35 FOOT TRAVEL TRAILER

cedar table with beveled edge. Custom cedar framed couch. Single Bed in living room.

& tires. $5400.00/OBO NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED. Contact David Swart [email protected], 954-868-2580

1.25-ACRE LOT IN VIKING ESTATES known as “The Prairie” is for sale by owner. Zoned for residential or agricultural. West End of 2 mile Rd. Lot has been cleared/surveyed fenced &

2-story observation tower. For info please call Between 9am-9pm EST David at 954-868-2580.

Financing Requires 2000.00 down. See more at

MURPHY N.C VACATION RENTAL CLOSE TO TOWN RENT BY THE WEEK CALL 352-787-6855

HOME FOR RENT 3-4 Bedroom, 8.5 Acres of Pasture, Zolfo Springs. Call Keith 863-381-1978

TO PLACE A

CLASSIFIED AD EMAIL

[email protected]

***Lake Placid Christian School Students: Have

Your Parent(s) sign below and return to Mr. G.

_____________________________________

It’s All About Ag in Southwest FloridaThe Citrus Expo held at the Lee Civic Center in Fort Myers was a huge success. Exhibitors included a wide variety of companies, which really brought to the forefront just how wide-ranging and innovative agri-business has become. Attendees could sample organic juice, speak with U.S. Customs Agents charged with keeping our agricultural interests safe, or ogle the latest in farm machinery. The Heartland Magazine staff agreed the expo was informative, entertaining and a truly impressive display of all things citrus.

Save the Date: just a reminder that the 2012 Joint Tomato Conference will be held September 4-9 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Naples. Go to

Taste Testers Wanted: Lipmanis giving away a limited supply of Vintage Ripe Tomatoes. Consumers can register to win a free, two-pack sample through September 14. Go to www.TrueTomatoTaste.

announced it recently acquired Dallas-based Combs Produce, a tomato re-packer and fresh produce distributor. This acquisition marks Lipman’s third this year.

Congratulations to the Gulf Citrus Growers Association’s Wayne Simmons, president;; Mark Colbert, vice president;; Bob Newsome, secretary;; and Callie Walker, treasurer. The association represents citrus growers in Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee

for about 25% of the state’s total citrus production.

Futral’s Feed Store in Fort Myers has

something in its Palm Beach Boulevard

store that you don’t see very often

of the ‘good ol’ days. Felix Reynoso

demonstrates the correct way to hold a

baby duckling.

The Highlands County 4-H is offering a brand new program, the Highlands Shooting Sports Club.

Chanea Turner came across the shooting sports of Texas program earlier in the year while doing some research on fundraising for the Heartland’s Friends of the NRA. She was looking for a way to get more kids involved in the sport of shooting. Her son Cavin is 8 years old and has a love of

She began taking the steps to starting a 4-H Club back in April. After a long few months and some hard work, they are

The focus of all 4-H programs is the development of youth as individuals and as responsible and productive citizens. The 4-H Shooting Sports Program stands out as an example of that focus. Youth will learn marksmanship, the safe and

archery, pistol, air gun, hunting, and wildlife. The activi-ties of the program and the support of caring adult leaders will provide young people with opportunities to develop life skills, self-worth, conservation ethics, and a lot of fun!

Since this is a brand new program, one of the hold ups they have encountered is the need of equipment: targets,

a safe to store the equipment. They are accepting dona-tions and all the help they can get from the community!

Any youth in Highlands County that are interested in be--

County Shooting Sports as their club. In addition, the program also needs volunteers who are interested in be-

Program offers this training at Camp Cloverleaf on Sep-tember 29th & 30th. For further information about the training or to get involved, contact Chanea Turner at 863-381-1313 or [email protected] .

New Shooting Sports 4-H Club for Highlands County



Flashback to the 80’sFriday Night Live is 80’s themedMain Street Wauchula will be bustling with residents and visitors who are happily reminiscing on the 80’s. A live band, Pushin’ Eightiez, will set the tune for people of all generations to enjoy. Main Street Wauchula, Inc. will host

Live on Sept. 21 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. As with every Friday Night Live, downtown businesses will be keeping their doors open to allow for after hours shopping and dining. An 80’s inspired lip sync will be held on the East side of Main Street, across Hwy 17 S. The lip sync contest will be open for all to participate in! Show up sporting your 80’s neons and prepare for a good time.Main Street Wauchula, Inc. is requesting the presence of all Hardee Senior High School Alumni and will have a special recognition for the graduating classes of the 1980’s. Do not miss out on this opportunity to reconnect with your High School peers! Children will be entertained with a bounce

band, lip sync contest and downtown shopping.The 1980’s decade was a time of boombox, VHS and

Street Wauchula reminisces. Fun is to be had by the entire family! Friday Night Live begins at 6 p.m. on Sept. 21.

~4th Annual ~

Mason G. Smoak 5K Run & Family Fun Festival

DeVane Park, Lake Placid

September 29, 2012

Race day registration at 7:00AM

5K Race at 8:00AMFamily fun walk at 9:00AMFestival from 9:00AM - 1:00PM

www.masongsmoakfoundation.org/masongsmoakfoundation /mgsfoundation

scan our qr code...

For the last three years, the community has displayed support of the Mason G. Smoak Foundation by showing up and having fun at this event! We hope this year is no different. Please come out and enjoy the following activities:

» 5K race for all ages » Family fun walk » Delicious food » Games » Booths » Hands on exhibits » Dunk tank » Root-beer floats » Clowns » Face Painting » and much more

to register please visit:


Howerton Residence4502 US Hwy 98, Sebring

Bring the whole family for a night of great food, music, dancing & fun!

Call 863-‐385-‐5141 or email [email protected] for Tickets & Info.

Reserved Table

Open SeatingName of business on table.for 8 $400

Support Highlands County Agriculture!

Saturday, October 20, 2012Gates Open at 5:30pm Dinner Served at 7:00pm

Steak & Shrimp DinnerBYOB Mixers & Ice Provided

Thank You Highlands County Farm Bureau Heritage Sponsors!

HIG

HIGHLANDS COUNTY


SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY, OUR

COUNTRY & OUR TROOPS!

Trade in your old, tattered American Flag for proper disposal at Goin' Postal and receive a NEW 3'x5'

American Flag FREE!


Date

Sept. 1st-3rd

Sept. 1st -3rd

Sept. 3rd

Sept. 6th-7th

Sept. 8th

Sept. 14th

Sept. 14th

Sept. 20th

Sept. 21st

Okeechobee County Agri-Civic Center

Details/Time

Downtown Englewood

Okeechobee 10 am—for more information contact Teresa Chandler at (863) 801-4996

Turner Agri Civic Center, Arcadia

7:30 Bergeron Rodeo Arena www.davieprorodeo.com

Contact Cindy Weinstein (863) 604-3778

–Heritage Park—Downtown Wauchula 6-9

Event

Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Ranch Rodeo

56th Annual Englewood Pioneer Days

BRAT Cub Labor Day Parade Sponsored by American Drilling Services

Grazing Management School

Championship Bull Riding

3rd Annual Sebring Thunder Car Show

Florida Pomegranate Association’s Annual Meeting and Conference

FFVA 69th Annual Convention at the Ritz-Carlton in Naples

Friday Night Live

Sept. 22nd —Fisherman’s Village—Punta GordaFall Harvest

Sept. 26th Agri-Civic Center, SebringCitrus Water Seminar

Sept. 29th Lake PlacidMason G Smoak Foundation 5K and Family Fun Day

FNGLA Trade Show OrlandoSept. 27th-29th

Sept. 28th-29th

KissimmeeFlorida Ranch Rodeo Finals & Cowboy Heritage Festival

10 am-2 pm www. henstratchfarms.com Henscratch Farms Annual Pumpkin Festival

Oct. 27th


Highway 70 ArcadiaAll stores available at one

convenient location1-800-880-3099

Hours Mon-Fri 8am-7pm

Saturday 8am-5pmSunday Closed

Visit us 24/7 on the web at WWW.DESOTOAUTOMALL.COM

SWFL’s Largest Selection of All New & Pre-Owned Vehicles

WRANGLERUNLIMITED

2012 JEEP 2013FORD FOCUS

2013FORD TAURUS

2012DODGE TOWN & COUNTRY

Download our Dealership App for your Smartphone.

ON ALL 2012 MODELS

Same great people, Same great service, New name and a new attitude!

2013FORD F150

“Experience The Difference”

H o u r s :

M o n - T h u r s 1 1 - 8 p m

F r i - S a t 1 1 - 2 a m

S u n N o o n - 8 p m

September band Dates:

Line Dancing Every Thursday

Night!!!

Karaoke every Friday & Saturday

under the TIKI! Live Music Every Sunday

under the TIKI 4-7.

Slick Willy 7-8The Shannon Reed

Band 14-15Logan Brothers 21-22Damn Outlaws 28-29

BUCS BLACKOUT GAMESwill be available at the HOLE!!!

Food and Drink Specials for College and NFL Football

Starting September 1st for College Football 11am-7pm and Sunday September 9th

for NFL. TIKI ONLY!!

$.50 wings$.50 tenders

$1 Hamburger Sliders$1 BBQ Pork Sliders

$10 Domestic Buckets$1.50 Drafts2 for 1 Wells

Documents

Heartland Magazine September 2012