FOCUS Plant City 03-02 Feb 2004

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG03

You can already feel the buzz! The Strawberry Festival is coming and everyone is so excited!

Including me!

I would like to take the time to express my sincere thanks to the community for all of the compliments that you give Focus on a daily basis. Every function that I attend I am inundated with compliments on how much you are enjoying the magazine. It is definitely a team effort, and we take pride in it.

We always strive to bring to you the positive side of Plant City.

It is because of the support of the community that we have been so successful and we can't say it enough…."Thank you, thank you, thank you."

Supporting the community means that you have pride in it. Every citizen has to find his or her own way of expressing that pride. Some people are teachers (trust me, they volunteer their time to the children of the community), some volunteer at the Festival, some teach Sunday school, some are doctors (they also volunteer their time, do you know of a pediatrician that needs some extra patients in this town? I myself have appeared on the doorstep as they are opening up shop countless times this flu season) and some simply take time to pick up trash off of the street they live on.

No job is smaller than the other; taking pride in the community makes us all better people.

Nettie Berry Draughon was a person who took great pride in her community. Read the Feature and find out about the dedicated civil servant and friend to all. In the local section, find out about some Plant City High School students that are making a difference in the lives of those with special needs. And be sure to read the Spotlight Interview and find out the dirt on life as a Strawberry Festival Stage Manager.

In this month's issue we have added a special interview with hometown boy Mel Tillis. Yes, he still stutters and he is very excited about coming back to Plant City. Especially that barbeque that the Elks club provides in his honor.

I hope that everyone had a nice Valentine's Day, and until next issue…Well, I think ya' got it by now!

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AROUND THE TOWN The Strawberry Chapter of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) held its monthly meeting at the First Baptist Church of Plant City.

Each February, NARFE members in attendance bring something of value in a brown paper bag, which is auctioned at the meeting. All proceeds are given to the University of South Florida for Alzheimer's Research. There is lively bidding to the delight of everybody in attendance. To date, NARFE Chapters nationally have contributed over $5 million for Alzheimer's Research.

and has just graduated first in class 44 from the National Automotive Dealer Academy. He came to Florida from Ohio when he was 18 and worked in the automotive industry while he attended and graduated from The University of South Florida in Tampa. Jon makes his home in Plant City with wife, Terrie and one month old baby girl, Tabatha.

Rick Lott has recently announced his candidacy for the Plant City Commission. He has served for several years on the Plant City Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and is currently the Chair-elect of that board. The city elections will be held at City Hall on Tuesday, April 6th. For further information you may call Rick Lott at 813-752-4181, or Billy Keel, his Campaign Manager at 813-7529119, or Robert Brown, his Campaign Treasurer at 813-752-6193.

The Strawberry Festival Association wants to announce that the Main Exhibit Building has been named in recognition of R.E. (Roy) and Helen Parke. Helen and Roy have been very involved in our community and taken an interest in the Festival for a number of years. They have been strong supporting contributors for promoting the Festival. They are a huge part of the success and growth of the Florida Strawberry Festival.

General Manager Patsy Brooks believes that the difference between success and failure is often determined by a person's dedication. Ms. Brooks says, "We hope the Parkes accept this as an expression of sincere gratitude for all they have done in the promotion and support of this organization."

Republican House Speaker Johnnie Byrd and Democratic U.S. Rep. Peter Deutsch were the money leaders among candidates for a U.S. Senate seat in Florida.

Did you know the city of Plant City has an email newsletter? Just go to plantcitygov.com and click on the link for the newsletter. The instructions are simple.

In last month's issue of Focus, in our Creative Outlets article on Contrived Flowers, the phone number for Jennie Harwell was printed incorrectly. It should have been 752-6566. Thank you, Jennie, for you and your clubs' continued support of Focus Magazine and other media in general, helping to foster the good relationship they both enjoy.

Jonald Spinks has been named General Manager of Operations for Lott Mather Enterprises-Plant City, who operates two automobile dealerships. Jonald will become a dealer partner with present owners, Rick Lott and William Mather.

Mr. Spinks is celebrating his 15th year in the automotive industry

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AROUND THE TOWN STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

Rising Above Lucky Lady Wins Dream Prize Christmas came early this year for Ann McDowell when she won the weight loss contest at Curves in Dec. She won a day of pampering at Natural Creations which included: hair cut & color, pedicure, manicure, massage which was scheduled for a day at her convenience, and makeup. The day began as a white limo picked her up at home and brought her to Natural Creations at 10 am. Limo driver, Bob, rolled out the red carpet and opened Ann's door so she could exit her ride in style. She met first with hair stylist, Vickey, and discussed what changes she should go with. They quickly decided a drastic change would be just the ticket. Soon the

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transformation began and before we knew it "WHALA!" OOOOHs and AAAAAH's were heard from everywhere in the salon. She went from grey to a fabulous Terra Cotta. We all agreed she looked at least 10 yrs. younger. So thrilled with her new hair color Ann carried a small mirror with her to her next step of beauty, a pedicure, so she could check in every now and then to see if it was still her. She soon forgot all about her new color when pedicurist, Brandi, began her work. Ann had never had a pedicure before and couldn't believe how wonderful it was. She also enjoyed a tasty lunch of chicken salad and cool water from

the Brooklyn Bridge as she watched Brandi perform her magic. A beautiful application of color to her toe nails made her feet look and feel better than they ever had before. Next she moved to the manicure station where nail specialist, Melissa, gave Ann an acrylic fill in and applied color to match her toes. And finally a makeup makeover created by Deanna, put the finishing touches on an already beautiful woman.

Ann changed into a new black and pink ensemble and waited for her limo to arrive. Soon the big white limo arrived and Bob came in to retrieve the beautiful lady, but first he had to pick

her out of the room full of ladies. The transformation was so successful he almost couldn't find her. Ann arrived home to find her husband, Terry, ready and waiting to take her out for a night on the town. What a great way to end a perfect day. Before Ann lost the weight she felt she had reached bottom. She visited her doctor and discussed her options. He told her what she already knew. If she was ever going to change her life and be happy she would have to do it herself. She did just that. She started at just a little over 300 lbs. and on the day we met she was down to 236. What a great accomplishment.

Ann did not go on a drastic program. She ate sensibly, cutting her portions, increasing her water intake, and adding exercise. Ann says she never feels deprived and once in awhile she will have a treat, but it is an occasional thing. Losing weight has changed her life not only because she won the contest, but because of how she feels about herself and life in general now. She is so grateful for all those wonderful friends who have supported her, especially her husband, Terry.

Everyone is so proud of you Ann. You are an inspiration to us all.

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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STORY BY BRUCE RODWELL Send Questions & Comments to: brodwell@floydpublications.com

Chamber of Commerce The purpose of this Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce column is to inform the residents of Plant City and Eastern Hillsborough County of events and items of interest that have or will be taking place in our area in the near future.

Our Chamber has a new Board Chairman.

Jennifer Closshey assumed this role at the start of the new year. She succeeds Bill Ulbricht who was at the helm in 2003.

According to Jennifer, the Chamber plans to continue its Bike Fest on the first Saturday of each month, the Antique Street Fair on the second Saturday, the Strawberry Classic Car Show on the third Saturday and, again, according to Jennifer, will no doubt come up with another event to take up the fourth Saturday.

When people visit our Historic Downtown they quickly learn just how great a City this truly is, with friendly people and friendly merchants. Our downtown is "booming".

FAIR. This event features vendors and fun for the entire family. The next Fair will be held on March 13th. Mark your calendar and go browse a little, have some lunch and enjoy the day in Historic downtown Plant City. Michael Cameron serves as Chair for this event. It features vendors from Plant City and the surrounding area.

SPOTLIGHT ON MEMBERS WATERSIDE REALTY, 120 South Wiggins Road, Plant City. . Waterside Realty was established in Tampa in 1992 and moved to Plant City in June of 2002. Jerry Hagaman and his agents provide services in all phases of residential real estate, including marketing, purchasing, land development, and sub-dividing. They also offer advice on home improvements. Jerry bases their success on always putting the client's needs and desires first. Waterside Realty agents can be reache at 813-717-7562.

Speaking of events, the Chamber is busy making plans for the third annual Margarita Ball. This affair will take place on Saturday, May 15th at the home of Rick & Di Lott.

You will not want to miss this great time.

Another event that is in the works is the second annual PIG JAM. This event will take place November 20th at the Randy Larson Four- Plex off of Park Road. Mark your calendars now so you don't miss out on these two happenings.

DR. YUNG SIDDIQI, MD, 303 North Platt Avenue, Suite #1, Plant City, a Board Certified Family Practitioner who sees a wide range of patients from children to adults.

She is currently accepting new patients. Office hours are from 8 AM to 5 PM, and they do accept same day appointments. The office number is 813-6593328.

Did you know the Chamber has a softball team?

Wesley Joyner manages the team known as the Plant City Berries. Other teams involved in the league are from Family & Friends, Jeez & Quakers, Yates Masonry, Kazbor's, Beef O"Brady's, Excel Printing/Rick's Lawn Care and the South Florida Baptist Hospital. The teams play at the Plant City Randy Larson Four-Plex. Get the family together and come on out for a game. It's a great fun time and a chance to see the "stars" in action. It's co-ed and lots of fun.

There are three dates remaining in this year's schedule. All eight teams compete on February 23 rd., March 8th and March 15th. On March 22nd the league will hold it's championship game. Get a group together and come on out and cheer our local sluggers.

FEBRUARY 20 through FEBRUARY 22. Third annual "Guns & Hoses" softball challenge at Plant City Stadium and the Randy Larson Four-Plex. This softball tournament pits the firemen against the police. There will be many teams competing for the prizes. For further information call 813-6594200, extension 4302.

Have you had an opportunity to visit downtown Plant City on a second Saturday of the month?

That's the day they have the ANTIQUE STREET FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG10

MARK YOUR CALENDARS !!!

FEBRUARY 21ST. Walk for Life 2004! The Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City invites you to grab your walkin' shoes for the Walk for Life. This benefits the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City.

Registration begins at 8 AM and the Walk starts at 9 AM at the Plant City Stadium Complex. All ages can participate. The Center is providing the Walk sponsor forms. Ask your friends and neighbors for a tax-deductible gift for your participation in the event. For more information call 813-759-0886.

FEBRUARY 21ST. Strawberry Classic Car Show in Historic Downtown Plant City.

This is a great family event. Last month's car show attracted over 450 cars. There are great vendor booths, and several stores and restaurants remain open. This event gets underway at 4 PM. FEBRUARY 25TH. Citizen of the Year Luncheon at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club.

This wonderful event salutes the Plant City Citizen of the Year. It is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Plant City. Reservations can be made by calling Brett Clancy at 752-8731. Leave your name and a place will be reserved for you. The cost is $13.00.

FEBRUARY 26TH. Florida Strawberry Festival opens and runs through March 7th.

MARCH 1ST. Strawberry Festival Parade MARCH 6TH. Bike Fest in Downtown Plant City.

This event draws huge crowds and lots of motorcycles. Vendor booths, music, and fun, fun, fun for the entire family. Gets underway at 5 PM and runs till 9 PM. MARCH 13TH. Plant City Antiques Street Fair in Historic Downtown Plant City. Gets underway at 9 AM. APRIL 16-17TH. American Cancer Society Relay For Life. This annual event takes place at the Plant City High School. Opening ceremonies begin at 6 PM on April 16th.

For additional information call Cindi Herrera at 813-685-0670, ext. 112.

APRIL 24TH. Plant City Arts Council Jazz Festival at Walden Lake Park. For additional information, call Barbara Forbes-Moore at 813-737-6458.

IF YOUR GROUP OR ORGANIZATION IS PLANNING A SPECIAL EVENT, PLEASE CALL AL COLLINGE AT THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OFFICE 813-7543707 TO HAVE IT INCLUDED ON THE COMMUNITY CALENDAR. THIS IS A GREAT WAY OF CHECKING DATES TO MAKE SURE YOUR EVENT DOES NOT CONFLICT WITH ANOTHER PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY.

AROUND THE TOWN STORY BY KELLI THARRINGTON PHOTOS BY BILLY FRIEND Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Strawberry Ball Rings in the Season of the Festival The Kick-Off Event for the Festival Uses Florida’s Natural Resources as Theme The Arthur Boring Building, located on the festival grounds, was transformed into Florida's most prized natural resource, the Everglades.

Black fabric was draped from ceiling to floor and wetlands scenes were flashed on every wall. The centerpieces used native vegetation that fit the theme. Bird of Paradise, various grasses, and even moss were used to reflect the natural growth of the wetlands.

Due to federal regulations, this offer does not apply to Medicare, Medicaid or federal insurance programs.

Our office policy: The patient and any other persons responsible for the payment has the right to refuse pay, cancel payments for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to this advertisement for the free service, examination or treatments.

The idea was that of Keith Roper of Modern Display out of Tampa.

They have been the design coordinator of the ball for the last 12 years. "It has become a tradition for us and we enjoy it because it is a community event," Keith said. Other events that Modern Display has designed include the US Open and the Governor's Inaugural Ball.

David and Susan Sullivan were the co-chairs of the event. "We want to make sure that from year to year, the ball is an event to remember," David said. It is the first official event of the festival season so it has to be a hit. The guest list includes all of the directors and community members.

Betty Chambers, a guest at the event, remembers a time when there was a waiting list for the ball. "It's not so anymore because the festival has grown so much, that there are many more activities to get involved with," she said.

Katie Varnum, former Strawberry Queen and newly appointed associate director says that she enjoys the ball because," it sets the tone for festival events, it gets everyone excited." She went on to say that the festival helps bring commerce to our little town because visitors come here and they spend money. "Hopefully they will take the time to visit our downtown district to see all that Plant City really has to offer."

Helen Mann was also a guest at the ball and her father was one of the first doctors in Plant City, Dr. L.H. Harrell. Why does she come to the ball? "Oh," she said, "This is Plant City."

While it is a celebration of the harvest of the strawberries that have helped to make Plant City an agricultural port for the entire country, there is another reason that some event goers enjoy the

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ball. "It's a great reason to get dressed up," said Stacy Miles. "It's the one time of year that you can put on a pretty dress and its just fun to do once in a while."

The Strawberry Festival has officially been kicked off by an event that personified elegance. It's another way for the community to come together to work toward a specific goal. On the coat tails of the Strawberry Ball, the Strawberry Festival is sure to prove that it is, in fact, Florida's "Berried" Treasure.

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AROUND THE TOWN STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON PHOTOS BY BILLY FRIEND Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Jr. Royalty Pageant Plant City's future is looking good, indeed We plan long and hard each year to make the Strawberry Festival an event that people from all over want to come to. An important part of making the Festival complete is the choosing of some very special young ladies to represent our city. The 2004 Junior Royalty Pageant is the beginning of all of the competitions. 120 young ladies compete for four titles, Baroness (ages 5-6), Duchess (ages 7-9), Princess (ages 10-12), and Queen (ages 13-15). The competition was held on January 10th at Tomlin Middle School. I arrived to find a full house of excited parents and friends. The young competitors began the parade procession through the isles of the auditorium in their beautiful gowns, each glowing with pride. The pageant continued with introductions of the Master & Mistress of Ceremonies and the 2003 Junior Royalty Queen & Court. After the preliminary Competition Buckshot Cloggers and Carly Knox entertained us, followed by the Semi-

finalist Competition, introduction of 2003 Strawberry Festival Queen & Court, and the announcement of the 2004 Junior Royalty Queen, Princess, Duchess, & Baroness winners. The 2004 Junior Royalty winners are: Baroness: Payton Astin 1st Maid: Brianna Lee Court: Sara Adams, Skye Turpin, Celest Weaver Duchess: Madison Astin 1st Maid: Lacy Saranko Court: Mckayla Cook, Mara Parks, Savannah Shirah Princess: Calli Jo Parker 1st Maid: Regan Knotts Court: Erin Bridges, Victoria Garren, Stacey Heckerman Queen: Kira Story 1st Maid: Summer Pippin Court: Victoria Helton, Hannah Hodge, Julie Parrott

The winners and 1st Maid from each category will be riding on a float in both the Youth Parade on Saturday, February 28th and the Grand Parade on Monday, March 1, representing the Florida Strawberry Festival.

Congratulations to all the winners!

AROUND THE TOWN STORY BY KELLI THARRINGTON PHOTOS BY BILLY FRIEND Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Focus Anniversary Party, A Focus on the Positive Celebrating 2 Years in the Community When Focus Magazine throws a party, they do it right! The Focus Magazine 2nd Anniversary Party was held at the Walden Lake Country Club on January 22nd and it was a blast!

As DeDe Floyd greeted guests at the door, they entered into a room where the excitement was undeniable. A magician walked around to tables performing magical tricks to boggle the mind. While the magic filled the air, party-goers were treated to a delectable buffet of salad, veggies, parmesan chicken and prime rib that was cooked to perfection. When it came time for dessert, the choices were endless.

Enough about the food, let's talk about the rest of the entertainment. The event was emceed by Plant City's own Al Berry, who, of course, entertained with his humor. The reader's choice awards were announced and then on to the main event!

The lights were turned down; the theme to

Best Dessert - Shelby's Best Sub - Sub Conscious Best Salad - Shelby's Best Hamburger - Red Rose Best Milkshake - Parkesdale Best Strawberry Shortcake - Parkesdale Best Oriental Food - Hong Kong Buffet Fastest Drive Thru - Wendy's Best Overall Service - Shelby's

"Close Encounters of the Third Kind" was played in the background and the count down began-"5-4-3-2-1- Elvis is in the building!"

Yes-"the King" himself was impersonated right before our eyes with the rhinestones and sunglasses to perfect the persona. And as he sang "Hunka-hunka Burnin' Love" he places leis on the necks of any lady willing to let him make himself comfortable on their lap. Laughter erupted around the room as he tagged Patsy Berry and Helen Parke among others.

After the performance of Elvis, the band played songs that got the party started! Everyone got up on their feet and danced the night away.

Once again, a party to remember and a wonderful reason to celebrate. Focus Magazine has a place in the community and is here to serve the community in any capacity that is needed to promote Plant City for the greater good. It is all about Focus-ing on the positive aspects that make our community great!

Now, about those Readers Choice Award Winners, they are as follows: Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

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Cuban Sandwich - Strawberry Hut Mexican Food - Mi Casa Pizza - ABC Pizza BBQ - Grandpa Johnson's Steak - Outback Steakhouse Seafood - Linda's Crabshack Down Home Cooking - Fred's Market Breakfast - Fred's Market

Thanks to all you fine folks who participated in the voting, and congratulations to the winners!

AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

Marching To A Dream Plant City remembers and honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. What an amazing day for a parade! Sun shining, temperature warming, and excitement filling the sidewalks of Plant City along MLK for the annual Martin Luther King Parade. The parade was just part of a five day celebration hosted by the Improvement League of Plant City with the desire to inform us of the contributions African Americans have made in education, fine arts, music, poetry, art and technology. The festival began with a reception and ribbon cutting on Thursday Jan. 15th.

Friday we celebrated with a Senior's Luncheon, Step show, Carnival & Midway. Saturday continued with the carnival & midway as well as the Parade, University of South Florida Rock & Pop Band, Busch Garden Sheiks, and the evening Concert Series. Sunday offered a

Leadership Breakfast, Concert Series, & Gospel Extravaganza.

Ending the celebration on Monday, a memorial service was held at 12 pm in the Allen Chapel (Plant City), afterwards there were Kuumba Dancers, Carnival & Midway and Smooth Jazz. Whew! What a busy few days for Plant City, but fun never the less. Many of us look forward to the celebration of Martin Luther King and remembering what he has contributed, not only to history but to our own encouragement.

Because of him I can never forget my dreams and am not afraid to strive to make them come true.

AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY KELLI THARRINGTON Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Signs of Gabriel Band is On The Right Track

Relocating soon to better serve your needs!

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It seems that the news always has something negative to report about today's youth. Well, Focus is here to report something wonderful about today's youth.

There is a group of young men in town that call themselves "Signs of Gabriel" and they are a band of rock and roll musicians.

I know what you're thinking, wayward kids starting a rock group, they're dreamers and they need to concentrate on school! But this group of young men is using their talents to serve a higher purpose, they want to tell people about God through their music.

Mike Wright, Pat Hearn, Justin Weyand, and Wes Bozeman decided to put their creativeness together sometime late last year. They showcased their talents in the Battle of the Bands in February at St. Clement's Catholic Church and came in second and have also played at the 5th quarter at the Plant City Church of God. They have also participated in the open mike night at First Baptist Church of Dover. "We want to reach as many people as possible," said Pat. The group of musicians say that their family has completely supported them in their endeavor and their schooling hasn't suffered at all.

"We just wanted to find a way to give God glory instead of ourselves," said Mike, of the group's talents. Pat is a saxophone player and guitarist, Justin has played the cello for 6 years, and Mike plays the bass guitar, and Wes also plays the guitar.

These boys are on the right track. Luckily they have the support of family to make sure of it. Their goal is to reach just one person with their music.

"Then it will all be worth it," said Justin. Wes went on to say that," even if no one listens to us, my music is used to worship God and there is no life without Jesus."

That is their message and that is how they live. What a great message to send to today's youth. So, the next time you are watching the news and are frustrated with what is going on in the world today, remember that right here in Plant City, there is something wonderful happening.

AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

A History Lesson With Sadie Smith National Association of Retired Federal Employees had entertaining meeting

Watching Sadie Smith tell the story of Betsy Ross in character and costume was like being back in the 1870's. At 85 she is eloquent and classy, speaking with such passion about those things that affected important people in our history and ultimately what we are today. We met George Washington, John Adams, and many of the other men who signed the Declaration of Independence. Along with her 13 star flag, she reminded us of historical events such as the adopting of the flag, the Stamp Act, the proposed tax on tea, and the rebellion of the Boston Tea Party. It had been so long since reminiscing on my school days and the history I learned that it felt I was learning it all over again. It was an experience I will not soon forget. Ms. Smith's one-woman monologue took place at the Strawberry Chapter of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees. We met in room 230 in the Educational Building of the First Baptist Church at 1:30 p.m. This was the first time the meeting room had been filled to capacity and extra chairs had to be brought in. NARFE is an organization whose mission is to protect and improve the retirement benefits of federal retirees, employees and their families. They understand the work force is overwhelmed and understaffed and do not have time to help employees of the government with planning their futures, so they provide the solution and resources needed to do that very important thing. NARFE has a legislative agenda to enact bills that will benefit those who have spent so much of their lives working for our government. They are certainly a worthy organization with a just cause. I enjoyed the time I spent with these wonderful people and meeting Sadie Smith. Thank you to Dick Zeiner for being so kind to invite me to their meeting and experience a historical journey with Sadie Smith. If you would like further information on NARFE you can contact Mr. Zeiner at 759-2887. If you are interested in booking Sadie Smith you can contact her at (813) 685-7957 or by email at sadiesmith@juno.com .

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AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY KEN LAWRENCE Send Questions & Comments to: klawrence@floydpublications.com

Keeping It a 'Berry' Happy Fair The Role of the Hillsborough County Sheriff at the Strawberry Festival From the day the Florida Strawberry Festival first opened its doors 69 years ago, The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has been an integral part of the event. Today, that role has taken on added importance since the disaster of 9-11.

The man in charge of all aspects of security for the Fair is Plant City native, Captain Paul Davis, a 24 year veteran of the Sheriff's Office. Davis will have upwards of 90 Deputies on site at anyone time, doing everything from reuniting lost children with their parents, to looking out for terrorists.

"9-11 has changed the way security is handled at all special events", says Captain Davis. The

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Joint Terrorism Task Force, comprising the FBI and all other police agencies, has been "very involved" in the Strawberry Festival. Detectives have been assigned to Festival Security on a full time basis and they receive daily intelligence of any known activities in the State from Washington and Tallahassee.

THE MANY DUTIES FOR THE SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT While anti-terrorism is the major concern for police these days, the Sheriff's Office has many other duties to perform.

Counterfeit money is one potential problem.

Every person at the Fair who will be handling money, admissions and vendors, will be given special training by Deputies about how to spot fake money. We mentioned lost kids and you can rest assured that will happen. Then there is "Senior's Day" in which busloads of elderly will be brought to Plant City from all over the region, for a day of enjoyment. The Deputies will be kept especially busy directing folks to and from their transportation, as well as assisting them in many other ways.

Two years ago an elderly lady's heart stopped and she collapsed to the ground. Two Sheriff's Deputies alternated in performing CPR and she was revived. The lady later wrote a

glowing letter to Sheriff Cal Henderson thanking the Deputies for saving her life.

EXPECT THE POLITICIANS TO BE THERE What's a community event, especially one as large as the Florida Strawberry Festival,

without politicians seeking our votes? This being a Presidential Election year, one can almost say with certainty that one or more of the candidates will be photographed eating strawberry shortcake. Oh yes, we forgot kissing babies as well. Both of the Bush Presidents, Senior

and our present leader, have been to the Strawberry Festival.

Of course, that presents an even greater security problem for, not only the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, but the entire national security apparatus. Captain Davis says even if he knew at this time which candidate will be coming, he could not say until probably less than 24 hours before that person arrives.

A FAMILY AFFAIR Sheriff's Captain Bill Davis, who also handles security for events such as Gasparilla and the just concluded Florida State Fair, sings the praises of all the volunteers whom he says put in long hours to ensure that the Festival remains "a safe, family style, wholesome event".

During the Festival, detectives, dressed like "Joe Average", will be patrolling the grounds along with uniformed officers.

Captain Davis says "a lot of specialized training goes into today's anti-terrorist training".

In addition the security personnel will be looking out for illicit drugs, alcohol and troublemakers. He went onto say, "while our law enforcement can never be 100% sure, deputies will give it their very best effort to make the Strawberry Festival a wonderful family experience".

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AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY KELLI THARRINGTON Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Plant City's Future Looking Bright The Chamber of Commerce inducts new chairman with big plans The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is on record to have been established in 1924. It began with a few members who were excited about the prospect of revitalizing business in town. They had a contest among themselves and went out recruiting members. Each day they would report to the Hillsborough Café to record the number of recruits they had gathered. Cheers could be heard coming from the café, "We'll win, we'll win!" In a matter of a week the teams had recruited over 400 members.

Today, the Chamber boasts over 700 members. And they are no less excited today than they were 80 years ago.

The Chamber hosted their Annual Chairman's Banquet at the Ramada Inn Plantation House. Over 200 guests filed into the dining room to celebrate the new year of the chamber and to induct a new chairman.

But first, there was business to take care of.

There was the cuisine provided by Chef Jason and his staff that was wonderful, and the evening was kicked off with the emcee, Dan Raulerson.

Last year's Chairman, Dr. Bill Ulbricht, gave a speech highlighting the year's events, making sure to thank the volunteers for all of their hard work. "Without our volunteers, it would be impossible."

Next up were the awards. Ambassador of the year went to Betty Tower with Wesley Joyner as runner up. For Chamber Support Doug Driggers was recognized, and the Chairman's award went to David Miller, who for once was speechless. (If you know the very articulate David Miller then you are well aware of his ability to charm and to speak….) And the big joke of the evening went to the efforts of Mark Poppell, a leaving board member. He was recognized for all of his hard work and effort in a project of monstrous proportions…. the flowerpots downtown. All kidding aside though, the flowerpots definitely add a nice touch and all of the award winners have helped to make a positive difference in the community.

But what really set this night apart was that it was not your typical awards ceremony. A feature film that would rival the best at the Sundance Film Festival premiered right there in the ballroom. The actors, well you may know them, because they were made up of local community members. Bill All Done, Rich Glorious, Johnnie Bacon, Mike Oil Man, and the FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG24

Chamber CommandosBruce Rodwell and Fred Johnson. The o p e n i n g s c e n e featured the Chamber staff on a normal workday. One that was filled w i t h margaritas and conga lines, and the President, Marion Smith answering the phone upside down. Maybe she had one too many. The premise of the movie? That the new chairman would move the Pentagon into Plant City. But first, Mike Oil Man's business had to be blown up to make room, an idea that he was not thrilled about. But alas, there was nothing to be done except to let the chairman have her way. At the end of the movie, each of the "actors" received their very own "Oscars."

Jennifer Closshey, President of Crystals International, is the incoming chairman for 2004.

Having moved here in 1957 with her parents, Jennifer has been a member of the chamber for 6 years. She said that she is proud of what Plant City is and what it will become. "Without vision people perish and with a vision, they succeed," she said. That vision of the future includes a 5K marathon hosted by Plant City, and a TV campaign. No doubt there is an exciting year in store under this new leadership.

The night was a lot of fun, and was really a class act.

Our Chamber of Commerce is alive and well and we look forward to the vision of the future of Plant City.

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AROUND THE TOWN STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON PHOTOS BY BILLY FRIEND Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Strawberry Queen Pageant "A Night of Honor"

Almost every little girl dreams about being a princess, but in Plant City our little girls dream of winning the title of Strawberry Queen. For the contestants of the Strawberry Festival Queen's Scholarship Pageant it has not only been a dream but a lot of hard work. Most of us see a pageant as being all about beauty, but not so with the Strawberry Queen Pageant. Our girls must show their brainy side as well. Beauty and brains is definitely a winning combination.

The pageant was held at Tomlin Middle School at approximately 6p.m. on Saturday night February 7th. The program began with a Welcome from Jamie Davis, Plant City Lion's Club, and the performing of the National Anthem by a phenomenal singer, Miss Holly Stein, a 2002 Court Member.

Next we were entertained by the Showcase Performing Arts Team, all 2004 Contestants, and 2003 Queen and Court Members performing a dance number to "I'm So Excited" choreographed

by Sharon Everidge of Jackie's Dance Theater.

Great job, girls! Mayor William Dodson and wife, Sylvia, graced us on the stage as Master and Mistress of Ceremonies.

They did a fine job taking us from beginning to end of an extremely memorable evening.

The first part of the competition and 30% of the score was the Public Speaking Competition. It was a timed thirtysecond introduction of their sponsor with a 1/2 point deduction from cumulative score for every increment of 5 second over the time limit. Very impressive. I FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG26

learned a little about the businesses and individuals who have invested in our community and believe in our young people and supported them for this competition. I commend you.

The traditional swimsuit competition counted for 15% of the score. How brave and confident were these beautiful girls! It was refreshing to see that all the girls showed their individuality in choosing the color and style of the suit that best complimented their body types.

The evening gown competition is always an important part of any pageant. Like the swimsuit competition the evening gown portion also showed individuality and confidence. The dresses were beautiful, but the heart of each girl outshone each dress. The light in their eyes, and pride in their step will never be forgotten.

Though this portion of the competition only counted for 25% of their score, each girl gave 100% of themselves to the event, judges, and to us who were there to share this night with them.

The ten semifinalists were, in no particular order or score: #9 Lyndsey LeeAnn Terry, #15 Jill Lynn Welsh, #27 Kaitlin JoAn Sharer, #11 Ashley Brooke Pippin, #20 Crystal Gale Wiggins, #28 Catherine Ann Walker, #16 Amanda K. Wetherington, #5 Tara Ashlee Kosinsky, #13 Mallory Brooke Davis, and #32 LeAnna Christine Blake.

The last scoreable event was the Impromptu Question & Answer Period. This event was exclusively for the 10 semifinalists.

It was a Public Speaking Competition and was judged on their answer to the Impromptu question worth 35%, Overall Look for 35%, and Stage Presentation for 30%. This competition was scored separately from previous scores and tallied to determine the 2004 Queen and Court.

A procession to the Abdication of the Throne gave us one more chance to see the 2003 Queen and Court in their glory. Though we don't need to be reminded of who they

were they deserve to be mentioned again for all their hard work and devotion to their title this past year: Maid Kaley Leigh Mercer, Maid Allison Nicole Bethea, Maid Shana Leigh Norris, First Maid Brandie Nickole Johnson, and 2003 Queen Erica Leann Der. The procession of the 2004 Children's Court preceded the Procession of the Ten Semi Finalists including Heralds (Trumpet Bearers) Emilie Ulbricht & Jamie Beasley, Flower Girls Courtney Coton & Drew Knotts, and Crown Bearer - Bryson Keel.

Drum roll........here are the 5 ladies who would be our 2004 Queen and Court:

Queen Kaitlin JoAn Sharer, First Maid Ashley Brooke Pippin, and Court Lyndsey LeeAnn Terry, Crystal Gale Wiggins, & LeAnna Christine Blake. Congratulations! I also want to wish congratulations to the Ms. Congeniality winner, Regina Ann Shultz. Best wishes to everyone as you begin your new adventure this year representing Plant City.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG27

AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY KELLI THARRINGTON Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Plant City Cosmetology‌Building Skills, Building Relationships Cosmetology students learning that people with special needs are just people.

Plant City High School students are involved in activities that are developing well-rounded people who will one day be the leaders of our community.

The curriculum gives students many opportunities to experience diversity.

The cosmetology department is up to their own community improvement. Once a week the students in Sandy Denim's special needs classes visit the cosmetology department to have their hair washed and cut, get manicures and even have their eyebrows waxed.

This all came about when Laurel Ritenbaugh noticed a girl in a wheelchair that was shaved completely bald. When she inquired about the girl's condition, she found out that the hair loss was not due to illness, but due to the staffing conditions in the group home where she lives. "They just don't have the time to make sure everyone looks pretty, they are too concerned with the basics like medication and food," she said. They started this program 5 years ago when she noticed a need within her own school.

As a result of the program, more than 50% of her class has joined the Best Buddies program in which the students are mentors to another student with special needs. According to Mrs. Ritenbaugh and her class, they have learned more than they expected from this program. "We learned how to treat them," said Darlene Valentin. "Even the ones that can't talk can communicate with us. They blow us kisses and give us hugs and we love it."

As Mrs. Denim's class came in they each gave their stylists big hugs and kisses. There was talk of an upcoming dance for the Best Buddies program. Stephen Korsi, who is a part of Mrs. Denim's Class, was very excited about the dance. "I'm going, are you coming," he asked his buddy Christina Valeriani. As she reassured him that she in fact was attending the ball he beamed with excitement.

Make no mistake in thinking that these students will let just anything happen to their hair and nails, they know what they want. As was the case with K.K. Kidd, "Paint them blue," she told her manicurist Darlene. And royal blue they were painted.

The cosmetology students said they have learned many lessons with this project. "They are just like us, they have the same feelings," said Stephanie Tingler. "When I hear other kids talk about them, it makes me feel sorry for them because they are the ones missing out."

Mrs. Ritenbaugh wanted to stress that if it were not for the support of her administration in the charge of Principal Buddy Rayburn, this program would be impossible. She also said, "I don't think you could pull off a project like this anywhere else. Plant City is special."

What has been the most gratifying part of the entire experience, according to Mrs. Ritenbaugh, is what they have learned. "They have taught us so much more that we could have expected," she said. "We have built relationships with these kids, they have become a part of our lives."

AROUND THE TOWN STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON PHOTOS BY MS. LEE Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Instilling Success In Our Young People Helping our youth become self sufficient, productive and responsible citizens Rudyne Lee, President & Founder of "3D's Cultural Charm Program & Drill Team" will be retiring after this year. She has been working with kids for the past 10 yrs. to instill in them the 3 D's - Determined, Disciplined, Distinguished.

She has been happy to be part of a program that can help all young people "Be all they can be." Without guidance, leadership, encouragement, education, and training young people are left to their own devices and possible exposure to laziness and hopelessness. Ms. Lee felt it was not enough to just devote herself to teaching, but to go the extra mile to reach young people in an after school program. The mission of the program is: To encourage and motivate individuals to become self-sufficient, productive and responsible citizens in our

diverse society. We do this through monitoring cultural enrichment.

The program has training in various areas: Motivational Speaking, Modeling, Drama Training, Military Type Drills, Inspiration Movements, & Step Dance. The annual program offers: Martin Luther King Parade (Plant City, Bartow, Lakeland, & St. Petersburg) Little Miss, Junior Miss, & Miss Teen East Hillsborough County Strawberry Festival Float Easter Parade Convalescent Homes Veteran's Day - Hopewell Funeral Home Churches Family Reunions

Fashion Shows Educational Field Trips FAMU Homecoming Bayou Classic (New Orleans) Mr. Who's Who The young people have loved the program so much that they were willing to go the extra mile to make sure they kept up their grades, making it possible to participate in the extra curricular activities. There have been no particular sponsors for the program, so the program has found it necessary to raise monies through fundraisers and an annual Walk-A-Thon. This is a fantastic program and I am sure Ms. Lee will be missed by all the young people.

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AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

Plant City Church of God Makes Awareness a "Head On Experience" Reenactment was so real it was chilling!

Imagine coming upon a head on collision.

Fear makes your heart race as you inch closer, hoping you don't recognize any of the vehicles. Relief sets in when you finally realize it is not anyone you know, but heartbreak fills you when you see three teens, the same age as yours, trapped in two cars. Then you learn it is alcohol and drug related. Unfortunately this is a real and common scenario. As a parent we hope this never happens to us.

Some parents in Plant City are getting involved with church and police to prevent this from happening to them or someone they know. The Parent & Teen Awareness Program at the Plant City Church of God is a valuable program that is helping parents and teens get involved. A demonstration of their dedication to this cause was held on Wed.

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Jan. 21st at the Plant City Church of God. We were briefed by the Plant City Police Dept. on the scene they were about to unwrap....then the tarp was pulled off to reveal two cars tangled in a head on collision. Car 1 held two individuals, a driver injured but conscious and screaming for help, and a passenger covered with blood and lifeless. Car 2 held one person, an intoxicated driver. Soon sirens pierced the silence and flashing lights flooded the darkness. We watched in anticipation as the emergency workers tried desperately to free the victims from the tangled mess. Life flight was brought in and the Jaws of Life were accessed to help extract victims from Car 1. The police removed the driver of Car 2, immediately aware of his intoxication. They instructed him

to "Walk the line" but he failed the test miserably. He was arrested on the spot and escorted to a police cruiser. Nearby the EMS covered a young female with a white sheet, signaling loss of life. The simulation showed how important it is to wear your seat belt. If interested in getting involved in this worthwhile cause, please join the email family at m.nelson@pccog.com. You can also reach Mike Nelson at 752-4591 for more information or on Awareness Meeting times.

The Plant City Church of God is grateful for the Plant City Police Department and Bill McDaniel's involvement with their program and the event on the 21st. Their hope is that the entire community will "Catch The Vision" and get involved to save our kids.

AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY KRYSTEENA WAKEFIELD Send Questions & Comments to: kwakefield@floydpublications.com

Best Buddies Hold Their Friendship Ball A Night of fun was had by all

The Best Buddies program is an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of those with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for friendships and integrated employment. The program began in 1989 and has since grown from a single chapter to an international program with over fifty thousand participants. Plant City High School is proud to have the largest Best Buddies program in the nation and boasts over two hundred and fifty members in the club. The president of the club at Plant City High is Jessica Gill, a vibrant and dedicated young woman.

Over three hundred buddies gathered and partied down disco style in the mall at Plant City High on the night of January 31. Best Buddies from ten schools all over the Suncoast area gathered at the school for the second annual Best Buddies Friendship Ball. Kids were having a great time, partying and just enjoying being together. When Jessica Gill took the microphone, a hush fell over the crowd. It was time to announce the kings and queens of the friendship ball. A king and queen were selected from each of the ten schools. The kings and queens were crowned as follows: Bloomingdale High School Jonathan Diaz Christina Benowski Durant High School Kevin Carna Melanie Grauman Eisenhower Middle School Joshua Rodriguez Sheri Wigav Gaither High School Frank Jazesf Brenda Montes Leto High School Sami Harb Maria Rosario

Osceola High School Brian Baldwin Amanda Lowry Plant City High School Ryan Bolan Teresa Brandes Sickles High School Michael Hinton Nicole Tolliver Turkey Creek Middle School Christian Rosa Chelsea Taylor Wharton High School Jon Mohlenhoff Sherri Herring

Lonnie Coston. Jimmie recently won the Community Quarterback Award, and for his essay $10,000 went to Best Buddies at PCHS. At the end of the night, everyone was pretty worn out, yet no one wanted to go home. This year's Friendship Ball was a splendid event, and hopefully next year's will be just as much fun.

After the kings and queens were announced everyone got back to dancing. Since everyone was having so much fun, I decided to join in and danced with Stephen Corsi. I met up with Jimmy Garner at the ball who was hanging out with his buddy

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AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

KD’s Discount Motorcycle Parts A New Business is Blossoming in the Wake of Bike Fest It's tough starting a new business, but people still do it everyday. For one new business, success is in their corner. With the growing interest in motorcycles and the Bike Fest celebration the first Saturday of every month, it seemed like a logical move for Wayne and Karen Westbrook to open a motorcycle repair and supply shop in Plant City, thus KD's Discount Motorcycle Parts was born. It has been a welcome addition to our community. No longer do local residents have to travel long distances to buy parts or have their bikes worked on. KD's is a family venture. Not only are Wayne and Karen busy making a go of the shop, but son, Tim, helps out when he can. There are two other very important people who contribute. JT Sims, a retired Motor Squad Sgt. with the Plant City Police Dept., and "Dr. Crash", who is an AMI certified mechanic. Both of these guys do great mechanic work for them.

Wa y n e a n d Karen never

expected their business to take off so quickly, but they are extremely happy it has. Bikers used to have a bad reputation, but with the rising cost of owning a bike and the upkeep, a different type of crowd is emerging, such as retired people with children now grown and out of the house, doctors, lawyers, and many other hard working individuals coming from all walks of life. They are "hitting the road" for some down time and look forward to hanging out with others who share the same interest in riding at events such as our Bike Fest. It is no wonder this monthly event has been such a success. Recently it was noted that we experienced the biggest participation in Bike Fest ever, with around 10,000 bikes, making it approximately 20,000 people attending the event. That has been a great opportunity for KD's.

It not only increases business instantly, but it gets their name out there with those from out of town who visit their shop and go back home to tell their friends and neighbors about them. They now have customers from as far away as Tampa and Orlando. KD's has access to Harley Davidson and Matrix accessories and parts. They can order items from the following manufactures: Drag, Custom Chrome, MidWest, V Twin, Kuryakyn, and Signal Dynamics, and

anything Harley Davidson. They also have a variety of shirts, leather, hats, jewelry, and tires in stock. KD's goal is to offer the customer a fair price for parts and services. Even though they don't sell new bikes they do have a nice selection of bikes on consignment for sale. KD's is always friendly and helpful and wants to invite you to come and visit them @ 114 N. Collins St. (Downtown Plant City)

AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

South Florida Baptist Hospital Ground Breaking A new emergency room and updated facilities are coming

The South Florida Baptist Hospital Groundbreaking event took place on January 15th, 2004. It was held at the southwest end of the hospital grounds where the new wing will be built. The cost of the new wing will be $10.5 million, which includes construction and equipment. It will accommodate the increasing need for more space to treat the residents in Plant City and surrounding areas.

Currently they serve approximately 40,000 people at capacity each year but when the project is finished the hospital will be prepared to handle 72,000 visits per year. The present Emergency Center is 6,450 square feet of space, but will soon span out over a total of 24.000 square foot. It will include HIPAA-compliant private care areas, designated workspace for local ambulance and law enforcement teams, as well as an outdoor decontamination area for patients exposed to hazardous materials. South Florida Baptist Hospital is proud of the fact that they will be updating their technology and specialized staffing in cardiac, obstetrics, psychiatric, orthopedic, and minoremergency care. With the new system of admissions/discharge the wait time for patient care will be significantly diminished.

It is always such a stressful thing to have a medical emergency, so it is hoped that these new improvements will also help to decrease the anxiety of both patient and loved ones who visit South Florida Baptist Hospital. To facilitate a better experience the hospital is adding some great amenities for us, such as a covered, drive-up drop off for patients and ambulance, non smoking & smoking wait areas that both include televisions.

There will also be a sub-waiting area so families can stay near their loved ones receiving care, restrooms in treatment and main areas, vending machines in main wait areas, and two physician/family consultation rooms. I am personally thrilled that all treatment rooms will be private.

The estimated completion for the new wing is the summer of 2005.

The hospital's foundation is planning to launch a $1 million capital campaign to benefit this project. They have already raised $756,500 in advance gifts, which came from a main donation from Jim and Ruby Jean Redman. The emergency center will be named in their honor.

Other advance gifts of $5,000 or more for Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan Association, Ed and Myrtle Lou Swindle, the Weyerhaeuser Company Foundation, the Wal-Mart Foundation, Ann and Robert Trinkle, the Woman's Club of Plant City, and the Pilot Club of Plant City. The campaign committee members include Mike Sparkman (Chair), Hal Brewer, M.D., Robert Brown, Rick Lott, Dave Miller, Jim Redman, Mac Smith, Bob Tanner and Ed Swindle.

There are still opportunities to donate under a naming opportunity which starts at $5,000. If interested you may contact Judy D. Martin, SFBH Foundation executive director, at (813) 757-1277. For more information about the hospital in general go to www.southfloridabaptist. com

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG09

AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

“Ready to Rumble” Local Talent on Display at Hurricane Sammy's Boxing Extravaganza Taking Plant City by storm are the young people of Hurricane Sammy's Boxing Gym. Saturday night January 24th a Boxing Extravaganza created excitement for fans of the sport all over Plant City.

The National Guard Armory on Airport Rd., across the street from the Airport, hosted the event. I looked forward to going to the boxing event all week so I made sure I would get there early. I showed up well before 5 p.m. to find a very long line of people waiting to buy tickets. After speaking to someone in charge I was escorted in the facility through the crowd into a large open room filled with spectators, boxers, and trainers and told to make myself at home. The setup was amazing. A

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large boxing ring surrounded by tables in the front for the Ring Side ticket holders and a table full of trophies to be presented to the winners, signifying the success of days, months, and years of hard work. Around the perimeter, general admission seats finishing filling out the room. Ring Side Announcer, Ray Rodriguez, gave opening announcements. The traditional National Anthem was sung; an opening prayer offered by Rev. Dan Dempsey, and an award was presented to Mike Floyd of FOCUS Magazine for support of Hurricane Sammy and his gym. The match began with the first bout lasting the intended 3 rounds. It was very exciting to see such determination and hard work paying off for these young men. The end of the night brought the Main Event between Plant City's Little Hurricane Sammy, Silver Gloves State Champion vs.

Justin Pauldo. Wow, what a great match! Those two guys are amazing.

Hurricane Sammy's first Boxing Extravaganza was impressive with their professionalism and level of boxing ability of all the young men who competed. Thanks were given to several people who made the event a success.

Hurricane Sammy's is grateful to God who "gives us strength and wisdom to prepare this event," for the support of the people and sponsors of Plant City, Mr. Mike Floyd from FOCUS Magazine, Mr. Theodore N. Taylor, P.A. (Landlord), and to Eliezer of Smoothie Town. The proud sponsors of this event are as follows: FOCUS Magazine Mr. Theodore N. Taylor, P.A. Smoothie Town

Remax Dave Fox AmSouth Bank Vogel Realty The Athletic Club Plant City Motors Candy Bouquet Spirit of Beauty Billy Herald's Truck and Car Sale Sparky's Custom Sleds Effective Signs Serv Pro Gold Teeth and Jewelry Supplier Inc. Longhorn Boot and Shoe Repair Cellular Unlimited Central Florida Custom Homes Inc. Roig & Associates McDonald Realty American Auto Service Edward Jones (Michael Cameron) Plant City Bingo Knotts Team Sports James H. Buzbee, P.A. Peso's La Familia Grocery Loetsher Full Circle Salon The Silver Dollar Saloon Plant City and I will be looking forward to future Hurricane Sammy boxing events. Congratulations to all the winners. For more information on training with Hurricane Sammy's Gym call 785-0901.

AROUND THE TOWN STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

Kid’s Fishing Derby One of my favorite memories is when I was a little girl about 4 yrs. old sneaking off with my dad to go fishing. It made me feel special to spend that time with him doing something we both liked. That experience was not unlike the one that was held on Saturday January 24th at the Plant City Stadium parking lot just off of Albertson's Drive, where the City of Plant City Recreation & Parks Department's Kids Semi Annual Fishing Derby and Casting Contest took place. Boys and girls ages 6 15 yrs. old gathered at 8:30 a.m. with parents, grandparents, and friends to enjoy a day together making memories

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and competing for prizes and recognition in several categories. There were just under 170 anglers participating. Harold Outdoor Products in Plant City donated items and gave support for the event that helped to make it a great success. The day was cool to begin with, but warmed up nicely under a sunny sky and beautiful surroundings. The banks of the lake were peaceful, yet filled with excitement as each hook was baited and each line was cast. Even those little ones who were too young to participate were anxious to pretend they were fishing or just sit along side big brother or sister. As the morning progressed the fish were counted and points tabulated culminating in the announcement of winners around 11:30 am. The winners are as follows: 1st Catfish caught: Calvin Pugh 1st Bass caught: Zach Tredway 6 - 10 AGE GROUP: 1st with the largest fish weighing 2.6 lbs.: Bailey Smrstick, 2nd with the largest fish weighing 2 lbs.: Madeline Genrich Casting Contest Champion: Michael cook 11 - 15 AGE GROUP:

1st place with largest fish weighing 3.2 lbs.: Dustin Davis 2nd place with largest fish weighing 2.4 lbs.: Derrick Vail Casting Contest Champion: Benny Wells 2nd Place after the breaker: Derrick Vail Stephen Rossiter and those who were involved in putting on this event did a fantastic job. For more information for future events the Parks and Recreation Department will offer contact Mr. Rossiter at 813-7579166, email srossiter@plantcitygov.com, or go to their website at: www.plantcitygov.com/rec

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Preferred Builder

FEATURE

STORY AND PHOTOS BY KELLI THARRINGTON Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Nettie Berry Draughon A True Role Model She had a Profound Impact on the Lives of Those Around Her Nettie Berry Draughon is an institution in our city. It has been said that Nettie Berry Draughon is Plant City. She devoted her life to it and as is the consensus of her friends and family, she was so much more than her accomplishments. It has been my honor and a privilege to talk with the people that knew her and to learn more about what she did to make progress in Plant City. She is a role model to all and we would serve to learn from her work ethic and her desire to make our community great!

Nettie Mae Draughon served the Plant City community for 35 years. She began at the age of 17 working at City Hall as the assistant to J.B. Peeples, the City Clerk. Eventually she was appointed as the city clerk in 1947 and served in that capacity for 28 years. When Ronald L. Larson resigned as our city manager she reluctantly took the position, no doubt determined to do the best job possible. She was the city's first female manager. Talk about a pioneer. At that time there were only 6 female city managers in office in the state of Florida

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and Plant City was the biggest.

She served Plant City in many ways. She was a member of various civic clubs such as Jr. Women's Club, Business and Professional Women's Club, President of the American Legion Auxiliary, Ridge League of Municipalities, Plant City Kiwanis Club, and was named Outstanding Citizen in 1974. There were many more, but too numerous to mention.

Having accomplished so much in her life is truly admirable, but the reverberating message among family and friends was that she was a gift, a force to be reckoned with, a leader, a counselor, a Christian, and a friend.

At around the age of 15, Nettie Mae Berry decided to run for the title of Strawberry Queen. At that time the winner was determined by penny vote and Nettie was First Maid. " I can remember going door to door and collecting pennies," said Al Berry, Nettie's brother. "She didn't win, but she came very close. We would carr y around those shoe boxes until they were too heavy to carry."

Soon after, in 1928 at the age of 16 she graduated from high school. There was no electricity, so she studied by oil lamp.

"She was so intelligent, that she was able to skip a grade," said Betty Howell, Nettie's sister.

She graduated in tough economic times, and formal education was out of the question. So she went back to school and took a post- graduate course in advanced typing and shorthand.

Through that course she was given an opportunity to work for a local, prominent and successful fruit broker. But the pay was low and Nettie was in desperate need of money.

So, she applied for a position at a five and dime downtown where she would often work

Saturdays and holidays. Saturdays were late nights because they wouldn't close as long as there were customers in the streets.

The pay was around $.75 per hour and Nettie was responsible for the clerical work, and for three counters in the store.

She would straighten socks for hours on end. At times it was hard to restrain

herself at closing time when customers would stand at the counter and stir up the socks. Because of that experience, Nettie said she had, "a healthy respect for a neat counter of socks."

Then came the opportunity of becoming the assistant to the city clerk.

She applied and was chosen out of a long list of applicants. The pay increase was from $8.00 to $12.00. Then of course as the years passed Nettie worked her way up to City Manager, a job that she did not feel that she was qualified for. "I thought they should have hired someone with the education," she said. But she did take the job and tried to fulfill her duties to

the fullest capacity. "Her work ethic was incredible," said Elizabeth Brock, Nettie's secretary for over 25 years. "She always had an open door and never had anything bad to say about anyone." In Nettie's words, "I just wanted to do the best job that I could, where in the end, my friends and family wouldn't hate me!" She said this as she said everything‌with a smile.

It has been told that Nettie would pay people's water bill if they could not make the payment. "She never worried that she would be repaid.

That isn't why she did it. She never wanted to be the center of attention," said Elizabeth.

Nettie was a quiet leader, but a leader nonetheless. There was a city employee that was unhappy with her and approached her about his problem. She told him to switch seats with her, that he could run the city and she would do his job. Then she asked him if his problem was a problem after all. He left saying that he went into her office angry and when he left, he gave her a hug.

"That was just her way, she made the best of every situation and always had a positive attitude. You never saw Nettie down," said Joe Newsome, a friend of Nettie's.

Nettie volunteered her time to the community in many ways, but one of the most memorable ways was on the trams at the Strawberry Festival. Nettie's tram could be heard far and wide because she would have the entire vehicle singing and laughing. "No one could believe that she was the City Manager," said Patsy Brooks, General Manager of the Strawberr y Festival.

She was also a Director along with her brother Al. "In fact, they were the first brother and sister team we have had on the Board of Directors," said Patsy.

One of her favorite events during

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the Strawberry Festival was dressing up as a clown in the Strawberry Festival Parade.

Betty Watkins joined her in this activity and remembers it well. "I was working at GTE and Nettie was working in the water department in City Hall. We would get all dressed up and walk the parade. It was so much fun, especially for the children," she said. "Nettie was a great person, she had a heart of gold."

Velma Newsome worked under Nettie in the water department. Another municipality visited Plant City and a dinner was planned in their honor. "We were serving that night and she served with us. She was a boss, but she treated us as an equal.

Her sister Betty Howell remembers staying up all night to wrap Christmas presents. "She probably gave a gift to everyone she was associated with, "she said." She just had a big heart."

She would often go fishing with Sadye Martin, former Mayor of Plant City, on Sundays after church. "They would take their "deacon poles" and head out to the pits in Lithia," said Al Berry. For those of you that don't know what a deacon pole is, well, they fold up and fit into your trunk for those impromptu Sunday fishing trips.

She talked of her love for God and what it meant to have Him

in her life. She called Him the keeper of our city. She prayed for its welfare and for the people within its limits.

Toward the end of her career her health began to fail. But that did not keep Nettie down. She would make Elizabeth bring files over so that she could work on them and told her not to tell anyone that she was in the hospital. "I would remind her that she needed to rest and she would just say, "Elizabeth, bring the files. So I did."

Ultimately, her health and other forces out of her control, gave Nettie no choice but to retire. "She did not want to stop working," said Betty. She loved her job and the community. At her FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG44

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retirement party she gave a speech that was short and simple.

She simply stated, "Be careful how you treat your children, because they will one day grow up to become your boss." It was just another way of expressing how much she loved the work she had been doing for the city and was not ready to give it up.

Brad Sparkman is Elizabeth Brock's son and says that Nettie was like a second mother to him. He gave the eulogy at her funeral and in it he says that, "Nettie was my Barnabus, and I was one of her many Timothy's." He spent a lot of time with her before she died and said that at times it was hard to visit because she was in so much pain, but would never trade the hours he spent with her. "She has had a profound impact on my life, and on the lives of those around her."

The city commission named the former City Hall building in her honor in 1990. When it was replaced with the current City Hall, the commission voted unanimously to name it in her honor as well.

She will go down in the history of Plant City as an inspiration to all who knew her. "Nettie's entire life was an accomplishment," said Al Berry. "Everything she did was for the love of the people in the community."

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BUSINESS & FINANCE How You Invest May Depend on When You Were Born Are you a Baby Boomer? Or a "Gen Xer"? Your age helps determine your tastes in music, food and culture, and your attitudes toward a variety of social and political issues.To understand the financial implications of belonging to a particular age group, consider the following generational characteristics: Many baby boomers: * Have postponed retirement saving well into their 40s and 50s * Use their home as their "bank'' * Have given their children's college education precedence over saving for retirement While Gen Xers: * Have student loans to repay, along with heavy credit card debt * Have little "cash cushion" to fall back on * Haven't focused on saving for retirement Let's take a look at some ways that Gen Xers and baby boomers can address these needs.

IF YOU'RE A GEN XER: · Pay off those student loans - If you still owe money on your student loans, you're not alone. Since 1997, the median in undergraduate student loan debt has risen 74 percent, to $16,500, according to the 2002 National Student Loan Survey conducted by Nellie Mae, a national student loan provider. By paying off your student loans as quickly as possible, you'll free up money for your short- and longterm savings and investment goals. · Avoid the credit card trap - Keep one credit card for emergencies, and pay off your balance each month. Responsible credit card management is a great habit to learn early. · Build a cash cushion - Even if you aren't earning much, strive to put away $50 or $100 a month in a money market account, until you have built a cash cushion of about three to six months' worth of living expenses. · Contribute to your 401(k) - Start investing in your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan as soon as you can. If you can't afford to put in the maximum, at least contribute enough to earn the employer match, if one is offered.

IF YOU'RE A BABY BOOMER: · Accelerate retirement savings - If you aren't "maxing out" on your 401(k) and IRA, now is definitely the time to start. If you haven't saved much for retirement, you may need to weight your retirement plan more heavily toward growthoriented investments, although you'll still need to feel comfortable with what you're doing, given your individual risk tolerance. · Use home equity wisely - At this stage of your life, you may have built up considerable home equity. If so, you might be tempted to take out a home equity loan to consolidate other debts, etc. Your home equity loan may be tax deductible, and you can probably find a competitive interest rate - but you'll still want to use this debt wisely. Remember, you're putting your house up as collateral, so you don't want to get in over your head. · Don't bankrupt yourself to pay for college - If you want to help your kids pay for school, try to avoid dipping into your retirement savings. Instead, consider contributing to a tax-advantaged Section 529 Plan or a Coverdell Education Savings Account. Also, encourage your child to apply for grants and scholarships. And shop around for good, reasonably priced schools - they're still out there, if you look for them.

Make the right moves - at every stage As you can see, you'll need to make different types of financial decisions over time. To make your job easier, consult with a qualified financial professional who understands your individual needs and goals - and who can help you develop a strategy for each stage of your life.

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SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW STORY BY KELLI THARRINGTON PHOTOS BY MICHAEL FLOYD Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

MEET THE

ILLUSTRIOUS MAYOR OF CORK INTERVIEW WITH GENE AND GAIL LYONS

Being the stage manager at the Strawberry Festival during the featured entertainment that brings in world class country stars sounds like a glamorous job. I'll just bet that there are some things that you do not know about what goes on before the curtain goes up. Well, that's what this spotlight interview is all about, to dispel some of those myths and let the truth prevail. It's a hard job, but somebody has to do it. So read on as Gene Lyons, the infamous "Mayor" of Cork and his wife Gail (because behind a man there is always a great and classy woman) tell all about the ins and outs of taking care of celebrities.

FOCUS: First, let's get some things straight, what is this title of "Mayor" of Cork all about?

GL: Well, I owned the grocery store called Cork's Country Corner and the hardware store. They were the only two businesses in Cork at the time until Jim Hicks opened Hicks Meats. It was just a name that got started and stuck with me.

FOCUS: Do you still own the businesses in Cork?

GL: No, several years ago I decided to make a change and sold the businesses. I began working for M.D. Moody selling heavy equipment and machinery.

FOCUS: Now that that has been cleared up, how did you become involved with the festival?

GL: I was asked to help out when Ken Cassels was the General Manager of the Fair Association. Through him, I somehow was assigned the job of stage manager.

FOCUS: So you just hang around back stage and chat up the stars when they come in?

GL: Oh no! There is so much more to it than most people realize. It can become very hectic back stage. The whole 10 days of the fair are just a blur. It's very fast paced. One artist will be in transport to the airport and the other will be in transport from the airport and once they are on stage, I am thinking of who will be on the next day and what we have to do to get them where they need to be.

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FOCUS: So, I guess that you spend a lot of time at the festival.

GL: We actually have a trailer on the grounds and we stay there. It just makes it easier. There are times the artist will show up in the middle of the night on their bus and they need a way to get in the gate. Things just go much smoother when I'm right across the street.

FOCUS: What are some of your credentials as a stage manager.

GL: One of the things that had been commented on in the past is how fast I can run fans through during meet and greet time. Years ago we would allow a certain number of fans to line up and have their picture taken with the artist. However many I could run through in 10 minutes is how many had their picture taken. I could run 180 to 200 people through in that amount of time. Some artists would comment on how amazing that was because they would not want to do it initially and I would have to convince them that it would be a painless process. We don't do it anymore because it really got out of control and people that did not make it in would be disappointed.

FOCUS: Define your role in "taking care of the artist". When does the role of stage manager begin?

GL: Once they have been decided on with the entertainment committee and the contracts have been signed, it is up to us to see that the

artist has everything they need. The contracts have to be read very carefully. If certain things have not been scratched off, then they must be provided. They will include crazy things just to make sure you have read the contract.

FOCUS: What are some of the most outrageous requests that you have had to provide?

Gail L: Billy Ray Cyrus wanted M&M's with all of the green ones picked out and Aaron Tippin wanted a life size poster of Bugs Bunny in his dressing room. But if these things are not caught, by contract, they must be provided.

What the entertainment committee usually does is scratch off everything and gives them a list of what will be provided. A deli tray, fruit and veggies, assorted sweets including strawberry shortcake and water or whatever they would like to drink.

FOCUS: What would you say has been the hardest situation to deal with during your time as stage manager?

Gail L: Well these artists play so many small town gigs and fairs that they expect it to be the same everywhere they go. There are some places that really don't know how to handle talent, but we (the festival) have done it for so long that we run a top-notch show. The managers and crew of some of the artists sometimes think they need to come in and help us, you know, by telling us what needs to be done, but Gene is quick to let

told him to tell someone who cared, and if he didn't apologize to me, he would call a wrecker and have them hauled out of the fair grounds.

Needless to say, I got my apology.

them know that we have it under control.

FOCUS: Are you saying he throws his managerial weight around?

Gail L: He is a big softy. Just don't ruffle his feathers. Anyone that knows Gene knows that he has never met a stranger, he just wants the visitors to show the festival staff respect. We really have a reputation among the country artists as a professional place to perform.

FOCUS: Who would you say is the most pleasant artist that you've ever worked with?

GL: That would be Marty Robbins. He was just a true gentleman along with Lee Greenwood.

Neil McCoy is also at the top of my list. After I had my heart attack, he called me in the hospital to check on me.

FOCUS: So you really become friends with the artists and their entourage.

GL: Sure do. In fact, Conway Twitty wanted to hire me to run Twitty City in Tennessee. I told them that when they moved it to Plant City I would work for them. It's a good thing that I didn't go, because Twitty City has since closed down and the festival is still going strong.

FOCUS: Who would you say has been the most unpleasant?

GL: You should ask Gail that one.

FOCUS: Ok Gail….

Gail L: Well, it's usually not the artist themselves, it's their people. But the one that Gene is thinking of is George Jones. Gene had a severely sprained ankle at the time, so I was acting stage manager and somehow their bus entered the grounds on the wrong side. The driver had already been told by the deputy at the gate to watch his step. So he was redirected to the right place and when I approached the bus to help them out, the driver began to yell at me using very inappropriate language. So Gene hobbled up on his cane and used it to knock on the window and asked him what the problem was and the gentleman told us how he had been awake for however many hours and was tired, etc. Gene

FOCUS: So it's not all fun and games. Let's think of more pleasant memories. What about the greats that have come to the festival? Who is the most down to earth? Who is a regular Joe? GL: There are so many, but John Connelly gave me a scare because when his bus arrived and his crew got out he was nowhere to be found.

We panicked a little until we realized that he was the one driving his own bus. Merle Haggard is the hardest worker. He got out of the hospital, played two shows, went to eat at the Ramada, signed autographs while he was eating, and then went back home and straight to the hospital to have kidney stone surgery. I told him that I could stop all of the people hounding him for autographs and he said not to because "when they stop wanting autographs, then my career is over."

Roy Clark was chewing tobacco and as I was walking by, he spit on my boots.

He apologized over and over again and cleaned off my boot.

FOCUS: Besides meeting the performers, what is your favorite part of the job?

Gail L: Really, it's how much time we get to spend with all of the people that make it happen. From the directors, to the sound crews, to the road crews, you become a family and you really become friends with them. Most of these people we normally wouldn't have the time to get to know, but because of the fair we are given an opportunity to forge life long friendships.

There you have it. The secrets of the backstage glamour of the festival. A lot of work, but they love to do it. Hey, "It's a good job if you can get it….."

FOCUS: Who are the most memorable guests?

GL: Well probably the two saddest stories that I can tell you are the most memorable.

Tammy Wynette gave her last performance at the festival. One month later she passed away.

And Reba McIntyre's band gave their last performance here, also. They died in a plane crash after their performance at the festival.

She would have been on the plane but she had to stay behind to do some promotional work. Both of those were heartbreaking.

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BUSINESS PROFILE

T i p t o To e Remember when your mom went to her weekly beauty appointment and she would come back with her big "do" pinned with a million bobby pins high on top of her head?

Well, no more. Times have changed and so has the beauty industry! The industry has transformed itself from Beauty Salon to Full Service Salon and finally Day Spa. Now instead of only getting your hair done you can have a full day experience. Who wouldn't love that?

Tip to Toe has also followed suit in its specialty. Lynn Conner, owner of Tip To Toe, joined me in her lovely Victorian Tea Room of her Day Spa to tell me of her journey from when she was a little girl of four, following her mom around on her job at a beauty salon, til today. Then in 1985 she began to do nails when there were very few nail techs and no regulations. She eventually found the Academy of Nail Artistry in St. Pete, where she completed her schooling and then could continue doing what she loved, with more information, education, and a license. In 1992 she opened her business as Nail Nails Nail with 1 desk and 2 chairs. As her business grew she added more equipment and services, finally moving to her current location of 101 S. Alexander St. and giving it the name of Tip To Toe. Plant City and the beauty industry have been good to Lynn and she feels very happy that her business has been able to give back to so many local causes and organizations. Tip To Toe isn't just about being a business. It is about people and our community. Lynn says she can't imagine living anywhere else.

Plant City is just so full of history and is such a great place to be. Developing relationships is one of the nice things about how this business focuses on their customers.

They help customers take care of themselves and make each person feel relaxed, important, and catered to.

Tip To Toe has so much to offer that one could spend an entire day there.

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STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

Here is a list of services and packages they offer: PACKAGES: Skin Care Treatments - Oxygen Infusion, FreeRadical Repair, Vital C Complex, Beta Cell Stimulating, Deep Pore, Natural Peels, Spot Treatment, and Make-Up Artistry, and Waxing Services.

Body Services (Massage) - Chair, Deep Tissue, Swedish, and Stress Relief.

Signature Spa - Just For Her, Just For Him, Special Occasion for birthdays, graduations, etc. Gift Registry Available.

Bridal - Just For Brides, Just For Grooms, For the Bride & Groom, and For the Entire Wedding Party.

Parties - For Young Girls, For the Teenager, & Tiny Teas.

The Service Menu includes: Nail Enhancements, Natural Nails, Waxing, & Massage Tea Room includes: Holiday Teas, Tiny Teas, Anytime/Birthday Teas, and Just Because!

Pageant Consulting includes: The Interview, Wardrobe, and Stage Presence February, the month of love, is a perfect time to begin showing yourself or someone you love a little extra TLC, but even if you are not interested in a pampering day it is still a great place to treat yourself to a little shopping. Tip To Toe is licensed to sell Strawberry items and has a fabulous selection to choose from. They also have fragrances, jewelry, Tyler candles, and much more!

When visiting the Plant City Strawberry Festival this year February 26 - March

7 stop by booth #49 in the Main Exhibit Building and say hello to the staff of Tip To Toe. They look forward to meeting each of you.

To purchase a gift certificate or make an appointment call 759-8637 or stop by at 101 Alexander St. They love to receive emails so drop them a line at TiptoToe1@aol.com Hours of Operation: Tues. 9 - 5:30 Wed. 9 - 5:30 Thurs. 9 - 8 Fri. 9 - 5:30 Sat. 7 - 1 Thank you to Lynn Conner, owner, and staff members for taking time to show me around your beautiful facility and talking with me.

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FEBRUARY'S FOCUS STUDENT OF THE MONTH STORY AND PHOTOS BY KRYSTEENA WAKEFIELD Send Questions & Comments to: kwakefield@floydpublications.com

Gino Lopez Gino Lopez, a Plant City High School twelfth grader is February's Focus Student of the month.

This outstanding art student was chosen by Mr. Satterwhite because of his exceptional artistic abilities.

This outgoing young man was born in Mexico, and moved to the states two years ago. I was very surprised to learn that fact, especially after he told me that he had never spoken a word of English before he came. He says that he has always enjoyed art,

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but he only started taking classes last year. Gino started drawing because art "lets you express yourself; it completes you." When asked who inspires his work, Gino replied, "Everybody finds inspiration from something. My work is inspired by my mood, and what I experience." Gino says that his heritage definitely affects his art as well. "Your heritage defines you as a person, ergo your art has to reflect that."

When Gino is not drawing, he likes to spend

his free time practicing tae kwon do. He started practicing the craft in his home country and picked it back up when he came to America. He is now a purple belt.

At Plant City High, Gino balances his love for art with a pretty heavy schedule, including AP English and SAT preparatory courses. After high school, Gino plans to attend medical school and become a doctor.

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WALDEN LAKE REVIEW STORY AND PHOTOS BY KEN LAWRENCE Send Questions & Comments to: klawrence@floydpublications.com

If you happened to be driving by the main lake at Walden Lake on Friday morning January 30th, your eyes would possibly have popped out of their sockets at the site in the sky.

Literally hundreds of vultures were flying about as the first step was taken in trying to reduce the flock. A marksman tried to shoot some of the birds but had limited success, possibly 20 or so.

The decision by the Community Association to

reduce the bird population that has reached between 500 and 600 has not come without controversy. The Association office has received probably more calls over this matter than any other. Manager Tom Daramus says the majority seems to be in favor of culling the population of vultures that look beautiful soaring above Walden Lake but have been causing damage to pool screens and shingles on some rooftops.

Comments include "What took so long to do it?" -- "Where have you been?"-"Why do you have to do it?"

To Review: The Community Association decided to obtain a permit to shoot the birds because of the complaints.

However, residents not directly affected by the birds have been asking why is the Association tampering with nature?

A State of Florida biologist has advised the association to hang some of the carcasses on trees in the woods, to discourage the birds from returning. Apparently that worked for a couple of days but the vultures have been returning. It's understandable because there are so few wooded areas remaining.

Speaking of Bird Brains! Vandals in their trucks and SUV's have struck again in Walden Lake and have caused considerable damage along roadways.

During and after recent heavy rains, these morons, thinking they're Macho, drove their vehicles over the soft shoulders along Timberlane and Clubhouse Drives, leaving huge ruts in the well manicured lawns.

Plant City even put reflective posts along Clubhouse Drive near Timberlane and the next night, someone drove over them. Some residents are so angry that our community is being damaged by these thoughtless, Jeff Gordon wannabees, that they are going to take turns staying up at night to catch these drivers. If caught, they can be charged with driving offenses and vandalism.

In addition, on Super Bowl night, a driver or drivers drove through the locked gate at Mud Lake Road.

By the time of this publication, these people might have been caught, because the security camera was up and running at the time.

TIDBITS Much of the bike pathways have been repaved, making your biking, jogging or walking that much more enjoyable for your feet or derrieres. Cost to the Community Association was $36,000, which was taken out of the Reserve Fund, so no increase in dues.

Speaking of Dues, they're due folks and Manager Tom Daramus advises that if they're not paid by the deadline, the Association has the power to place a lien on your property.

Also, Tom says "please put the new white decals on your vehicle and remove the old gold ones".

If for some reason you did not receive them, drop by the Association office in behind the Shell Station on Alexander and you'll be issued one.

Till Next Issue, keep happy and healthy.

Regards, Ken Lawrence

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REAL ESTATE STORY BY MAC MCGRATH

Do A Thorough Investigation Before You Remodel Perhaps you've heard stories about homeowners who've greatly improved their net worth by remodeling homes and selling them.

But, while remodeling can add value, there's no guarantee that a future buyer will pay you enough to recoup your investment.

Consider the example of a homeowner who lost his home in the recent flood along Lake Manatee in June of 2003.

Rather than rebuild, this flood victim decided to buy an existing replacement home. He invested his insurance proceeds in the purchase and subsequent remodel of the property. When he decided to sell several years later, he barely recouped the money he'd invested in the renovation. He had over-improved the property for the neighborhood. Buyers weren't willing to pay more than the property was worth on the open market.

Some homeowners fall into the trap of thinking that their home is worth what they paid for it, plus the money they've invested in remodeling projects. This logic is often faulty, and can result in unwise investments. Many times the owner will only recoup fifty cents on the dollar of investment.

Replacement cost value is not the same as market value. Market value is the price a ready, willing and able buyer will pay for a

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property. This is the only value that's relevant when you're selling your home. Replacement cost value is an important consideration when you're evaluating how much insurance coverage you'll need to replace your home if it burns down. But, it may have little bearing on the selling price of your home.

Another homeowner made the mistake of completing a major expansion and renovation of a home before doing a thorough investigation of the infrastructure. After years of living in a home that was too small and had an inefficient floor plan, the owners hired an architect to redesign the home to better suit their lifestyle.

The renovations indeed added value from a market perspective. When the owners put the home on the market, they received multiple offers. They accepted an offer at a price that more than returned the money they'd invested. However, the sellers ended up giving back a huge chunk of their profits when a termite inspection revealed that there was extensive dry rot in the internal framing. This is one more reason to have the help and advice of a competent real estate professional.

Before tackling a major remodel, make sure to have the property inspected by a pest control inspector. Remember, though some

inspections can be costly, it is an investment to make sure you will make a wise decision.

Another reason to inspect the infrastructure before remodeling is that you may be able to upgrade facilities while you're taking care of routine maintenance. Before starting an extensive remodel of the kitchen, another homeowner had a termite inspection done. The report revealed dry rot in the master bathroom.

Rather than simply repair the damage, the owners had the kitchen contractors rip out the master bath and redo it at the same time they did the kitchen job. By doing so, they reduced the cost of the bath remodel significantly. Furthermore, instead of a simple repair, the owners ended up with an entirely new bathroom that added considerably to the value of the property.

To realize the most from your remodeling efforts, stick to classic designs and finishes (includes neutral paint colors). Trendy designs may look outdated five or 10 years from now when you decide to sell.

Don't invest in a major renovation if you're planning on selling in the near future. It's highly likely that you won't be repaid for your investment.

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SERVICES, INC.

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56 ACRES… Developers don’t pass this up! Gorgeous pasture, lovely grand father oaks and palms, bubbling creek & soothing pond. Newly remodeled 3BD/2BA CB home with garage workshop included. Minutes from Plant City this parcel is a great value. Call for more info! $1,200,000. #27

AFFORDABLE & ADORABLE! Lovely 3BD/1.5BA, CB, C H/A, offers so much! Enjoy new carpet & paint (in process), large privacy fenced backyard, all located in convenient area to I-4 & HCC. Must see this! Priced to sell at $93,500. #1

ROYAL HILLS BEAUTY… 3BD/2BA bursting with so many extras. Beautiful wood cabinetry in eat-in kitchen, extra shelving from 2 car garage to closets offers lots of storage, and water purification system. BBQ’s & relaxation abound on huge screened lanai, wood privacy fence, must see this nicer than new home! Price to sell at $142,500. #12

A LOT OF VALUE… For a great price! Beautifully maintained 3BD/2BA mobile home on huge fenced lot, split bedroom plan, central heat & air, garden tub in Master & 10x16 shed with electric are just some of the amenities all for only $54,900. Call for location! #16

ATTENTION: DEVELOPERS… 1.55 acres in the heart of Brandon! Zoned RSC-6 6 units/acre. You must see this gorgeous parcel.

Large CB, 3BD/2BA home presently on property.

Possibly 9 units total. Call for more info, priced to sell at $199,000. #15

ACREAGE & COMMERCIAL ATTENTION INVESTORS…LAKELAND VALUE… 3 separate rental units, these 2 mobile homes and 1 house are in great condition. A great start for your retirement income! Large corner lot conveniently located, priced for fast sale at $96,500. #20

A LITTLE BIT O’ COUNTRY… Grandfather oaks surround meticulously maintained 2 or 3 bedroom, 2 bath, CB on over ½ ac. New carpet, updated throughout, boasts beautiful sparkling in-ground pool, huge barn & utility shed, double car carport & fenced all for $129,900. You must see! #4

NEVER LEAVE TARA… Scarlett would have loved this beautiful, custom built 2-story. 4 or 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, better than new with gorgeous staircase, formal LR & DR, huge FR w/ fireplace, gourmet kitchen w/ granite counters, ceramic tile flooring, and huge bonus room for the gang. Custom moldings throughout enhance this country retreat on 5 acres. Conveniently located near I-4 in an area of million dollar homes and priced to sell at $398,500. #8

PRETTY 6.44 ACRES… Enveloped by 3 roads is a great place to call home, or divide into separate tracts, great location, cleared and ready to build your own retreat. Priced to sell at $280,000. Call for more information! #36 OWN A PART OF BEAUTIFUL PLANT CITY… Build your dream home on this already cleared 1.4 ac lot. No deed restrictions. Won’t last at this price! $36,900. #18

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FEATURE HOME STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON Send Questions & Comments to: srobinson@floydpublications.com

"A LITTLE BIT OF HEAVEN" with

Connell Home

Recently I took a drive in the country, just on the outskirts of Plant City. The view was breathtaking. I saw tall, wise trees draped with Florida Moss, wetlands and winding country roads. It's a little bit of heaven where one could find refuge from the hustle and bustle of work or city living. That is exactly what Ron and Jeanette Tindle are saying about their new home built by Connell Homes. It's not just the beautiful surroundings that give them so much pleasure; it is also the freedom of their custom built homes' floor plan. Walking into their home I could feel the warmth and see the care that had been taken in the design.

A few design changes to a basic plan made it uniquely their own. It was important to the Tindles to have the main area, kitchen and living space open, giving it a

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feeling of maximum space. I really loved the fireplace in the living room. I know what you are thinking. A fireplace in Florida? Absolutely.

A fireplace is energy efficient, not to mention romantic. As you well know, we are never sure what the temp is going to be like this time of year so how spontaneous and romantic would it be to sit in front of a fire with a nice glass of cheer and chocolate strawberries on a cool Valentine Day? Ahhhh! For most hard working people it is difficult to get a good nights sleep worrying about this or that, but in the Tindle house the master bedroom would take it all away and counting sheep wouldn't even cross your mind. Falling into a sweet slumber is a treat. The room is peaceful and perfectly placed in the back of the house, allowing maximum quiet. Calgon has nothing on the wonderful tub in the

Master Bath. It is one of the features that Connell Homes and the Tindles are most proud of. You'd have to see it to believe it.

There is also plenty of room to move around easily in the master bath while trying to get ready for work or church on a hectic morning. Moving through the house I found a second bath and bedroom, along with a fabulous sewing room for Jeanette. The light came through the window just right and the privacy made it her own space, displayed with pictures of her children and grandchildren. It was lovely. Ron showed me one of his favorite spots, the view out of the breakfast area through their lanai into the backyard. He often sees deer grazing early in the morning. That's a great way to start the day. There are so many more features to experience in this home, as well as the great quality and craftsmanship. Here is what the Tindles and some of the other customers of

Connell Homes had to say about this contractor: "It was our pleasure to work with you, and to know you had our best interest at heart. You were so willing to please us with the changes and special requests that we had, we never had a problem with anything. Thank you for a wonderful job. We will continue to recommend you in the home building business."

Ron & Jeanette Tindle We never met anyone so qualified, honest and just plain nice to deal with. We highly recommend Connell Builders as the Builder for custom building with no problems.

Jim & Lee Smith A dedication to excellence of service, quality, and workmanship is every aspect of building our house sum it up.

Connell Homes built us a superb house as well as a special new "home."

Ed & Christi Vila I appreciate your eagerness and promptness in assisting me with all my concerns with the whole process. You and your loyalty has been most appreciated in having my first home built. You have made this an enjoyable and exciting experience and I wish you all the success!

For more information on Connell Builders, floor plans, lots available, and financing check out their website at www.connellhomes.com or call Brian Connell at (813) 643 - 4239.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG77

SPECIAL INTERVIEW

Mel Tillis

A Hometown Boy Not So Far From Home.

Becoming a big country star hasn't changed him and coming home is still a thrill.

"It seems like just yesterday that I left Florida head'n for Nashville, Tennessee, in my '49 Mercury with a busted windshield, a pregnant wife and $29.00 in my pocket.

2004 marks my 46th year in the music business. If I lost it all tomorrow, I guess I could say it only cost me $29.00 and it's been one heck of a ride!" -Mel Tillis MEL Tillis is a legend in country music. Born in Tampa and raised in Pahokee, Florida he spent a few of his formative years right here on the outskirts of Plant City in the community of Dover.

Thankful for his success, he never forgets where he came from. Since he will be returning to his hometown with his daughter Pam to perform at the Strawberry Festival, FOCUS decided to catch up with him before his appearance.

MEL: I remember that I was second. I sang Chew Tobacco Rag and Marilyn Simmons beat me. (He says this laughing) FOCUS: Now we're going to get a little personal. Who were your girlfriends while attending school here?

MEL: (again, laughing) Oh I remember Lettie Wilson, but she liked my brother Richard, Betty Ann Carlton, and Addie Brown.

Those were along about third or fourth grade.

FOCUS: Ok, everyone wants to know, do you still stutter?

MEL: Oh, y-y-y yes. It's a lot better, but I'll always stutter unless I'm singin'. I wouldn't change it; it's worked for me!

FOCUS: Tell us a little bit about what it's like to grow up with a stutter.

MEL: I didn't know I was different until I went to school.

Then I found out very quickly how different I was.

FOCUS: Were you teased as a child?

MEL: Well, a little at first, but I had a teacher at Wilson Elementar y School, Mrs. Clark, that would let me go around to all of the classes and sing. I was accepted at every school because I could sing.

FOCUS: Tell us about the contests you entered at WPLA, when it was our local radio station.

INTERVIEW AND PHOTOS BY KELLI THARRINGTON Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

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FOCUS: Do you have any memories of hanging out with your friends here?

MEL: I remember that Gladys Prevatt (Jeffcoat) lived next door and we were playing horse. We would climb on each other's backs and try to knock the other one off. Gladys was my horse.

FOCUS: Did you get into any trouble?

MEL: If we weren't good we would get a whippin', so we were good kids.

FOCUS: What do you remember about living here?

MEL: When I was about eight or nine years old, mama would take us in to Plant City to see the parades. We lived on Cherry Street then, so we would walk. I remember a float covered in cigars and one covered in pennies.

FOCUS: What would you do for fun?

MEL: We would go to the Capitol Theatre to the movies with a quarter. That's where I first saw Gene Autry. It cost about 9 cents to get in and what we had left over we would take over to Kress's and buy candy and penny cans of paint. We would paint everything.

FOCUS: You were a student at University of Florida. What did you study?

MEL: I didn't. I was there for about 3 months. I first went to Florida State; it had just turned co-ed from an all girls' school.

I tried out for the football team and they tried to kill me.

FOCUS: How did you get started in the music industry?

MEL: I went to Nashville to sing, but they said that wasn't where they wanted me. They needed songwriters. So I wrote songs.

My first one was a song called "I'm Tired", and it went to number one. I remember runnin' around yellin', "Momma, we're gonna' be rich!

FOCUS: Was it scary to leave town with $29.00 and a pregnant wife?

MEL: It was, but at that time I had 3 songs published, so I was confident we would make it.

FOCUS: What's the funniest thing that has ever happened to you while performing?

MEL: I went to Philadelphia to the Mike Douglas show and they didn't want me to come on because they said I couldn't talk.

Mike told them to trust him. So I bought a new guitar and headed to Philadelphia. When I got there, I went to take the guitar out of the case and I forgot to buy the strings. Mike gave me a choice between an accordion or a piano. I told him there aren't any good accordion players. So Mike played the piano while I sang.

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FOCUS: Who have you met in your career that made you step back and say, "Wow!" MEL: That would have to be Minnie Pearl. She encouraged me to talk on stage. She would say, "Melvin, you have to at least announce the song you are going to sing and then thank them when it's over."

FOCUS: How does it feel to have Pam sing your songs on her tribute album, "It's All Relative?"

MEL: I am really honored. She is a real talent. I am so proud of her and of all of my kids. Mel Jr. is a writer, too. His song "When I Think of Angels," sung by Jaime O'Neil went number one.

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FOCUS: Do you get to see each other often?

MEL: We perform about 20 shows together a year. I have six kids and I get to see them all pretty often. In fact, Pam and Connie were born in Plant City, and both of them were delivered by Dr. Peacock.

FOCUS: Are you excited about coming to the Strawberry Festival?

MEL: Oh, absolutely! Everyone is always so nice when we come there. And I have so many friends still there, it's always so much fun.

FOCUS: You have settled down in Ocala, why there?

MEL: I am a Gator, so I wanted to be close to Gainesville and it is so beautiful here. I can fish or do whatever I want to.

FOCUS: You have said that you know what it's like to feel different because of your stuttering. How are you helping others with the same problem?

MEL: I mess around with oil paints and have painted a few.

I have one called Masonic America and from the sales of that painting we have raised over $60,000 for Rite Care, a charity that helps kids with hearing and speech problems.

FOCUS: Whom do you attribute your success to?

MEL: My talent is a gift. Without God, I would not be here.

FOCUS: What are your plans for the future?

MEL: I want to work as long as I can with God's help to stay healthy and happy.

FOCUS: What advice do you have for an aspiring artist?

Mel: Follow your dreams. If you want it, you have to believe it!

Change the things that you have control over and let God take care of the rest.

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SPORTS STORY BY RHETT ROLLYSON Send Questions & Comments to: rrollyson@floydpublications.com

"The Life of Balls and Strikes" Major League Umpire, Mark Wegner

As winter turns to spring, the sports world shifts its focus on our area as spring training nears.

While the "Boys of Summer" are in the batting cages or bullpens getting ready for the season opener, one Plant City resident prepares for his major league season by prepping his vocal chords and putting on his thick skin.

Mark Wegner begins his 6th season this March as a Major League Baseball umpire. You probably have seen #47 in action on SportsCenter highlights or during a televised game without realizing the guy you may be yelling at spends the offseason living right here among us.

Wegner grew up just a bit north of his present locale in St. Paul, Minnesota. He loved baseball from the start and was co-captain of his state championship team along with Carolina Panther and former Seminole QB Chris Weinke. It was his high school coach, in fact, who gave him the nudge to try umpiring after his high school career came to a close.

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Wegner started his umpiring innocently enough in Little League the summer after high school, not knowing that this would be the start of something special.

He enjoyed his new hobby enough to work on the skill at an umpiring school the following January in Cocoa Beach. His only goal was to improve enough to work games at the varsity high school level‌again the thoughts of anything bigger was out of the question.

Wegner was a quick study though, and much to his amazement, after the 5-week crash course, he was offered a minor league gig. "The umps you see on TV are older looking guys, so it was a shock to me to be offered a spot in the minors so soon."

At the ripe age of 19, Wegner made his not-so-luxurious start doing a Pioneer Rookie League game in the baseball mecca that is Great Falls, Montana. "I was so pumped up," Wegner recalls. "I was in the locker room going through all the motions, only to walk out

of the clubhouse to see an empty stadium and a rainout. It would have been nice if they would have bothered to inform us."

The life of a minor league umpire is unglamorous and usually a dead-end for those aspiring of the bright lights. In fact, less than 1% of those who attend umpiring school ever make it to the majors. However Wegner was one of the exceptions.

His rapid progression to the AAA level occurred within five years. He was now on the doorstep of being a part of the "show."

It was at this point where Wegner had to make a decision. He had no idea whether he would progress further, and the yearly pay at AAA was only about $15,000. Mark's wife and Plant City native Michelle (former Mullins) was pregnant with their first child and it was time to do some serious soul searching. After much prayer and deliberation, Wegner was ready to hang up the spikes. However, two days later, the National League called and invited him to Major League Spring Training.

The dream was back on.

Wegner would stay in AAA for one more season, but would fill-in at the major league level throughout the year.

The following year (1999) at the ripe age of 26, he would be full-time primetime. His first major

league game was in Atlanta between the Braves and Chicago Cubs, two teams Wegner grew up watching every night as a teen on TV…not a bad start.

Being at the highest level at such an early age was an obstacle at first. Wegner was the youngest full-time umpire at the time. Not only was he young, but his baby face made him look even younger. "Every night was a battle to earn respect," Wegner recalls.

The respect soon followed and his consistency and professionalism has earned Wegner the respect of the Major League Baseball fraternity throughout his first five seasons. In fact, last fall Wegner got his first shot at the playoffs, covering the Braves-Cubs and Florida Marlins- San Francisco Giants divisional matchups.

Part of being an umpire, of course, means being a part of some interesting confrontations. The first player Wegner ever tossed out of a game occurred early during his first Spring Training. The player was none other than modern-day legend and arguably one of the five best players in major league history; Barry Bonds…might as well start at the top, right. Wegner states, "It was the 6th inning and his day was most likely done anyway because the stars rarely played any longer in

the spring exhibition games. However, I don't think Barry was too happy with some rookie calling him out on three consecutive called strikes with the bases loaded."

Another interesting night occurred in Boston's Fenway Park in May 2001 during a Red Sox game against the Seattle Mariners. A close play at the plate went against the hometown Sox and Wegner threw out the enraged Boston catcher and manager. He was the recipient of continual boos from the 35,000 patrons for the remainder of the long night. To make matters worse, when he left the stadium in a cab, the sports radio station playing in the cab was verbally blasting him for the supposed blown call. "Of course", Wegner recalls, "The replay showed I made the right call."

Wegner loves all aspects of his job, except being away from Plant City most of the time from March to October. Michelle brought Mark back home in 2000 and they now have three children…Nathan (5), Joey (3), and the newest addition Tori (4 months).

Wegner may play the tough, unemotional role between the baselines, but off the diamond, he's a great husband, dad and a real asset to our town.

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(863) 686-1483 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG89

GRAND OPENING Undoubtedly the Biggest Sale in the Industry Ever!!!

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DINING REVIEW STORY AND PHOTOS BY KRYSTEENA WAKEFIELD Send Questions & Comments to: kwakefield@floydpublications.com

A Plant City Speciality

Strawberry Shortcake SHELBY'S

PARKESDALE FARM MARKET One place to find Plant City's famous strawberry shortcake is at Parkesdale Farm Market, 3702 US Highway 92 West, the winner of our Reader's Choice Award for best strawberry shortcake. Parkesdale is no secret.

License plates from as far as New York can be found in Parkesdale's Parking lot.

Ned Campbell and his wife Rachael come to Plant City each year from Sun City Center just for Parkesdale's shortcake. "It's just so good!"

Rachael explains. A first timer at Parkesdale, Ryan Michael seems to enjoy the cake as well. Even if you don't care for shortcake, you'll find that with the multitude of desserts, produce, and plants, Parkesdale is fit for a queen.

Shelby's restaurant, the winner of our Reader's Choice Awards for best dessert, best salad, and best overall service is located at 110 Reynolds Street East. Jay Spaugh, a Plant City native says that it's no wonder Shelby's holds the best dessert title. Shelby's offers a very elegant cake that fits their stylish setting. The large shortcake is served in a platter drizzled and topped with tiny bits of heaven. Jay's daughter Adrienne snuck a bite of the cake and agreed that it was perfectly delectable.

For sumptuous strawberry shortcake in a stylish setting, Shelby's is the place to go.

GRANDPA JOHNSON'S BARBECUE Grandpa Johnson's Barbecue, located at 1401 W Dr Martin Luther King, is the winner of our Reader's Choice Award for Best Barbecue.

Nine and a half month old Kitty Shelton seems to think that their shortcake is pretty good too. Along with her grandmother Kitty and mother Cayci, baby Kitty digs into scrumptious shortcake after a savory barbecue lunch. Three generations agree that Grandpa Johnson's Barbecue is the place to go in Plant City for strawberry shortcake.

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JOHNNIE BYRD "PRINCIPLE-BASED BUDGETING" In January, Governor Jeb Bush unveiled his budget proposal for fiscal year 2004-2005. The Florida House will use this realistic and frugal assessment as a starting point for development of our own fiscally responsible budget framework.

Many have asked how the House will create its budget this year.

Here are three pillars on which we will construct our family-friendly budget: Our budget will be people-centered. We realize that every dollar we spend comes from the pockets of hard-working Floridians. That thought motivates us to be frugal with the funds we are entrusted to expend. There is nothing unique or flashy about this process. It is simply common-sense application of the same "kitchen-table economics" that most Florida families invoke over their own spending habits. If Florida's working families can live within their means, state government should do the same. Ultimately, our state's strength lies in the ingenuity of our citizens, not in the programming of government.

Our budget will be principle-based. We build our spending plans based on justifiable needs. Examining every program and, line-byline, accounting for every dollar we allocate, the House will continue to care for the most vulnerable and still hold the line against unnecessary spending. This is rooted in our belief that government spending should not exceed the growth of Floridians' average personal income. We continue to stress the importance of using tax dollars in the most important way possible by not using them at all.

Our budget will be tax-averse. Last year, the House led the charge against a higher tax burden on Floridians. We now look forward to 2004 and the opportunity to renew our principled-stand against new and higher taxes. When government increases taxes, it decreases the ability of citizens to pursue their dreams and goals. We know that Florida's competitive advantage in the marketplace and economic strength during economic downturns is a direct result of our low-tax approach to governing. Increase the tax burden and you take away opportunities for job creation and business development.

We look forward to this year's budget-writing process with great optimism. Remember to contact your legislators to express your desire for frugal spending and fiscal responsibility. Continue to stay informed and updated on the budget process by logging on to www.myfloridahouse.com.

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HEALTH & FITNESS STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRY NUEESCH Send Questions & Comments to: snueesch@floydpublications.com

How Could God Be Wrong?

I think God knew what he was doing. After all, he IS God. I really believe that when he created us on this planet Earth, he definitely provided us with the food necessary to support and sustain our bodies. I really don't think that he needed man to come along and try to do a better job. How good natural food provided to us from nature got such a bad rap is a long story. I can shorten it for you. Follow where the money goes!!!!

The American Food Industry is one of the largest industries in the world. They got that way via a whole lot of propaganda. First, they had to convince us that God made food was going to kill us.

My first recollection of the attack started with eggs and then butter and then whole milk. For years we were told that the wholesome good egg humans had eaten for hundreds of thousands of years were killing us. They caused heart disease. Then they started on butter and replaced it with hundreds of products

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artificially made in laboratories, products that now are being investigated for the Trans fats they contain and the link to heart disease they cause. They bad mouthed whole milk and cream. So now we have artificial creams and coffee substitutes that will clog your arteries faster than a two year old can clog your toilet. I think toilet and artificial belong in the same sentence.

I personally don't know how executives with some of the food giants can sleep at night. I wonder what they feed their grandchildren. Remember Jack La Lanne? He is about to turn 90 years old. He still exercises 2 hours a day. He claims to have tremendous stamina as he says, "Just ask my wife, Elaine"! When asked his advice on reaching such a milestone in such excellent health, he is quoted as saying, "Stay away from man made food, it will kill you".

The American Cancer Society did a study of over 800,000 people and revealed that non-egg users had a higher death rate from heart attacks and strokes than egg users. The Burnsides Research Laboratory, University of Illinois, conducted a study of lactating rats.

Those fed with real eggs thrived. Those that were fed EGG BEATERS did not grow normally. Instead they were stunted and died long before reaching maturity.

Patients with severe burns are often force-fed huge quantities of eggs. Their cholesterol usually drops. Perhaps it is because they are too full to eat the sugar and artificial junk that causes cholesterol to start with. Egg yolk is the most concentrated source known of for

choline, a B vitamin found in lecithin that is necessary for keeping cholesterol moving through the blood stream.

Just think about it a little bit. Do you really think God needs our help? Or do you think we are being brainwashed by commercials and ads for the junk and artificial, false and manufactured poo-poo that line our grocery shelves today. The food industry is NOT interested in your health. They are only interested in the health of their bottom line. It's about corporate profit and satisfying the shareholders. Back when we were eating eggs and the skin on chicken we weren't a nation of 60% obese and weren't plagued with heart disease. I sure hope you start to question the diet dictocrats and take charge of your own health. If you want more information, read anything by Sally Fallon or Dr. Weston Price. The statistics used in this article came from Sally Fallon's book "Nourishing Traditions". To your health.

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AUTO REVIEW STORY BY Ginny Stewart Send Questions & Comments to: gstewart@floydpublications.com

Move Over Mazda, the Honda Accord is the New Zoom Zoom I just drove one of the most amazing cars on the road. I know that I have previously mentioned that my favorite car to date is the Audi TT. However, I think I may have driven something quite comparable and a lot less expensive.

Allow me to introduce to you, the absolutely phenomenal, 2004 Honda Accord…

Think luxury; think speed; think family sedan and sports car. Add those together and you will undoubtedly discover the 2004 Honda Accord EX V6. That's the car I had the opportunity to review this month.

The Honda Accord EX V6 I got the chance to cruise around in for a few days came with a leather interior and a 6 disc in dash CD changer. Not to mention a sunroof, cruise control and radio/temperature controls on the steering wheel. You can't beat the amenities in this gorgeous car:

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• Dual zone automatic climate control • Tilt and telescopic steering column • HomeLink remote system • Eight beverage holders • XM satellite radio and the list goes on…

Aside from all the extras, the car tops out at 130 MPH. I only tested it to 100 MPH, but I have complete and utter confidence that it will do 130 in the blink of an eye. This is a car you have to be careful with because I would be cruising down I-4, check my speedometer and realize I was doing 90. The Honda Accord will fly and you won't even realize how fast you're going (make sure to use the cruise control - that's what I had to do 'cause I can't afford a speeding ticket).

Giving consideration to handling, the car corners like you wouldn't believe! I mean the tires just grip the road, and the ride is super smooth. Of course the heated, power seats add to the comfortability, but man…

This car is so nice, that while I was driving it, I stopped by McDonalds on Thonotosassa Road, and one of the managers asked me how much the payments were on it. Regretfully, I had to inform her that the car wasn't mine, but she seemed to think it was pretty sweet anyway.

The beauty of the 2004 Honda Accord lies in its duality. In that I mean, both men and

women will find it appealing. First, men are going to love its sporty look and its 240 HP. Women are going to love it's luxury and the trunk space, not to mention the ease in which a car seat can be placed without having to touch knees on the dash when riding in the front seat (like I have to do in my roommates Hyundai Accent GL). And everyone will love its 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway (especially with the astronomical prices on gas these days).

The Honda Accord is a machine. It's beautiful and quick, roomy and yet easy to park, luxurious and sporty, all at once. Amazingly, it's not too expensive either. The one I was driving (which had everything you could possibly desire) was only a little over $28,000.

One last bit of pertinent info about this car… It's safe! We're talking dual-stage front airbags (SRS), front side airbags with passenger side occupant position detection systems (located in the seats), and side curtain airbags.

Of course there's also the emergency trunk opener and child-proof rear door locks.

Like anything, you have to see/drive this car to believe what I am telling you, but I promise, had I driven it before I purchased my Jeep, I would be all about this car! Go see it at Brandon Honda on Hwy 60. And as usual, don't forget to tell them that FOCUS sent you!

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Home Computing Tips: Are Instant Messenger Clients the next biggest threat to Home P.C.'s and Networks?

First of all let me start off by saying, almost every p.c. user is using some kind of public IM client. MSN Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger, ICQ, or some other form of instant messaging. However, there are several security holes in the consumer-brand free IM clients that can give viruses, worms, Trojans or even hackers a way into the network behind the firewall and into your p.c. (That is providing you even have a firewall.). Any information that goes out via IM clients is unencrypted, and it goes

out over the Internet to the IM server first before being re-directed to the person for whom the message was meant. The worst part about it is that IM traffic can be sniffed and there have been cases where information leaked out via IM clients. Right now the main problems with instant messaging are that there is no one standard, people are sending potentially confidential data, and it's completely unencrypted. There are also quite a few viruses and worms out there that target IM clients. There was a 400% increase

in these types of viruses and worms in 2003 and that number is expected to grow rapidly. Right now this problem is in its infancy and no one has a clear-cut solution to dealing with it, although experts know it is a problem that has to be addressed. My only advice to any IM user at this point is to type only what you are willing to have others see and keep personal Im'ing to a minimum in the workspace. As a matter of fact I don't recommend that you make personal im's at work at all. Hopefully as the industry attacks this problem head on I'll have more information for you all.

Until Next time, Happy Computing Jim Brown Product Consultants Unlimited, Inc. 601 N. Michigan Ave. Plant City, Fl 33566 813-717-7717 www.pcustore.com www.plantcity.com www.whatsuptampabay.com

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EDUCATION STORY AND PHOTOS BY KELLY THARRINGTON Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

The FFA Teaches Life Skills FFA helps students prepare for the Festival and the Future The imminent arrival of the Strawberry Festival has people in the community busying themselves with the task of preparation. This preparation manifests itself in different ways. Whether it is getting in the berry crop, baking that award winning pie, or getting your animals ready for show.

Two Plant City High School Seniors in the FFA are doing just that. Cortney Strunk has a steer, and John Battaglia has a pig. They are getting them ready for show and sale at the festival. The FFA has played a positive role in a lot of kids' lives, myself included. Activities within the FFA build strong, confident leaders and provide the opportunities needed to be successful. This is the story of how these two students have been successful.

Cortney named her steer

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Dudley and this is her first year participating in the steer show. She is very accomplished in other areas of FFA as well, such as parliamentary procedure, ornamental horticulture, and has also been an officer, but she says that she likes the animals the best.

She has also said that she has learned something from this experience. "The record book has been the hardest part because I have really had to learn how to be organized," Cortney said.

She also says that it has taught her how to work at something until it is finished. "I have to work with him everyday and make sure he's taken care of," she said. What "taken care of" refers to is washing the steer once a week, brushing him and talking to him, feeding him daily, and leading him around. It is important to have control of the animal and the more you are around it, the more it will respond to you. Cortney also says she has learned that "you have to be responsible for everything. If you want to get it done, then you have to do it yourself.

Cortney plans on going into elementary education and would also like to further her role in the FFA by earning an American Degree and a State FFA degree.

Each of them requires the recipient to fulfill certain civic duties. (There's that teaching responsibility and providing positive influences thing again) John Battaglia was a lucky

winner in the pig drawing this year. John has also been involved in many areas of the FFA. He was a member of the mechanics team, the ornamental horticulture team, and has also served as an officer. John says that raising an animal has also taught him responsibility. "You have to be really careful how you feed a pig, it's a science. You don't want them fat and they get fat easily," he said. He also said that it is important to keep up with the market because "it changes everyday." A few years ago a curved back was a good thing, now a flat back is what they're looking for.

Showing a pig has the advantage of being able to raise 2 different animals. So that means that John will be bringing Macy and Ellie to the Festival for the weigh in to see which one makes the cut. If they both make it, then the most tone and desirably shaped one of the two will see its last days at the festival.

There is also the daily walking and weekly bathing and feeding. There is also the added chore of keeping the pen clean. That is a lot of work; after all, it is a pigpen. (Ha ha) John plans on getting certified in artificial insemination, a skill he can use to better his future and taught to him by the FFA. The way the FFA teaches its lessons are slightly unorthodox. Most of what is learned is done so in nontraditional settings. It teaches you skills for your future and skills for life.

Be sure to attend the steer show and sale and the pig show and sale.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG108

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MOVIE REVIEWS FOCUS PICKS THE FLICKS TORQUE (RATED PG-13) Starring: Martin Henderson, Ice Cube, Monet Mazur, Adam Scott, Matt Schulze, Jay Hernandez This movie has a plot, maybe 2, but it was really hard to figure out what exactly I was supposed to focus on. The story: Leader of the gang, the Hellions, Henry (Schulz) framed biker Cary Ford (Henderson) for stealing his drug filled bikes. Henry pins him with the murder of his brother, Trey (Ice Cube), who is the head of the gang, Reapers. Ford is back in town to get back with ex-girlfriend Shane (Mazur) and to find a way to redeem his name. The action in this movie was not believable.

Too many drugs references, too visually stimulating, and too violent. There were some really cool bikes and as always with this type of movie lots of unbelievable beautiful people on screen.

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MY BABY'S DADDY (RATED PG-13) Starring: Eddie Griffin, Anthony Anderson, Method Man, Tom "Tiny" Lister Jr., Joanna Bacalso Three friends from way back have gone through everything together. They even still live in the same house together. Now they will share the most important thing in life, fatherhood, when all three girlfriends announce they are pregnant. It's time to grow up and do what is right. The three guys struggle with responsibilities that create comedy. I felt warm fuzzies while watching My Baby's Daddy. The message of lessons learned and becoming a better person was brought home without being overbearing. Good flick!

REVIEWED BY SHERRI ROBINSON

THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT (RATED R) Starring: Ashton Kutcher, Amy Smart, Elden Henson, William Lee Scott, Eric Stoltz, Melora Walters Evan (Kutcher) is trying to mend his own emotional damage from his childhood by becoming a psyche major in college. He is driven to find a way to retrieve his lost memories and save his childhood love.

When he discovers a way to go back in time his actions tragically alter the present each time.

I rarely give a movie a 5 unless it is a blockbuster like "Lord of the Rings" or "Harry Potter," but I couldn't help myself with this one. The rating of 5 was for fantastic creativity and great story line only, however it was way too disturbing. It had me in tears and twisted up in knots the rest of the day.

Beware that there is strong bizarre sexual content, extreme violence, and drug use.

No one under 18 should be allowed to see this movie.

ALONG CAME POLLY (RATING PG-13) Starring: Ben Stiller, Jennifer Aniston, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Debra Messing, Alec Baldwin, Hank Azaria Life couldn't be worse for Reuben (Stiller), who is a Risk Assessor for a New York insurance company. He has calculated everything except for the chance that his new bride would run off with the French scuba instructor on their honeymoon.

Devastated he returns home to an apartment full of wedding gifts. Life is full of surprises for Reuben when he meets old school mate Polly Prince (Aniston) at a party. Soon he feels ready to put his life back together and pursue Polly. His infatuation for her requires that he remove himself from his comfort zone.

Reuben learns that everything in life is a risk, but some things are worth it. I absolutely loved Along Came Polly. It was daring, adventurous, and warm.

BIG FISH (RATED PG-13) Starring: Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, Billy Crudup, Jessica Lange, Alison Lohman, Helena Bonham Carter, Steve Buscemi, Danny DeVito Edward Bloom (Finney) is the epitome of "larger than life." His personal stories have held audiences in awe for as long as son, Will, can remember. The adventures his father describes seem too outrageous and have estranged him. Now that his father is dying, he returns home to help his mother care for him and find out the truth. Big Fish is the most difficult movie this month to describe. It is really an experience more than a movie. It will touch your soul and bring emotion to the surface that you don't expect. Absolutely in a class all by itself. See Big Fish and take the journey of a lifetime.

DVD/VHS RELEASES 2/03 Lost in Translation Second Hand Lion The Fighting Temptations Under The Tuscan Sun 2/10 In The Cut Intolerable Cruelty The Lion King 1 1/2 2/17 Dickie Robers: Former Child Star Runaway Jury 2/24 Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over The Missing

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG112

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DID YOU KNOW? PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PLANT CITY PHOTOS ARCHIVES, INC

The "Grand Parade" A Plant City Spring Tradition The small town born of the railroad on January 10, 1885, was early a mill-town; by the end of the second decade of the new century, however, it had already earned the reputation of the "World's Winter Strawberry Capital". The Strawberry was now King.

To promote the surging strawberry business, the Plant City Board of Trade sponsored a "Strawberry Day" as early as 1914. The Plant City Lions Club later (1929) decided that its members should sponsor a festival that would include Plant City and all of the surrounding strawberry-growing area. The City of Plant City lent $1,000 for operating capital, the festival organization became chartered, and state approved, and the first Strawberry Festival took place March 12 15, 1930. In addition to Plant City, the communities of Hopewell, Dover, Seffner, Trapnell, Lithia, Turkey Creek, Cork, and Springhead eagerly participated.

The first festival was staged on vacant land north of Baker Street and west of Michigan Avenue, near the tracks, and which was used as a ball field. Part of the marketing of the festival was the selection of a queen and her court, and both The Plant City Courier, and the Plant City Enterprise printed nomination forms and ballots. Charlotte Rosenberg emerged victorious, and on opening day of the festival, Wednesday, March 12, 1930, the new Queen and her Court led the parade of elaborately decorated cars and floats through the business district and up Michigan to the festival grounds.

The ornate floats were judged, and prizes were awarded at the festival, with G. R. Roberts garnering first place. Second place was awarded to the Plant City Kindergarten float, and the Business and Professional Women's Club took third.

That first year saw approximately 40,000 people attend the festival 15,000 on opening day alone.

Bruton and Bailey (Plant City: Its Origin and History) report that the festival grew in popularity each of the succeeding years. World War II, however, put an end to the festival. There was no festival in the years 1942 - 1947.

-MOREFestival Parade, Plant City Photo Archives, FOCUS, Feb. 2004, page 2 In 1947, another local organization, the Norman McLeod American Legion Post, whose membership was swelled by the numbers of returning veterans, took over the job of reviving the festival. The revived festival was staged in 1948, and has run every year since, with the parade being a special feature for every area resident, and visitor, young and old.

Along with the Baby Parade, the renowned entertainment, agricultural exhibits, arts & crafts, the Midway, and countless vendors, the Florida Strawberry Festival has become an attraction of immense proportion. But the Strawberry Festival Grand Parade still stands above all the rest.

With over 100 entries, including the new Queen and her Court, numerous clubs and organizations, schools and marching bands, businesses, politicians of every sort, and dozens of miscellaneous groups, the Parade will easily draw over 100,000 spectators. And then there are breakfasts, lunches, and countless parties that precede and follow the parade. It has become an official Holiday in this part of the world.

Shown here are some participants of parades past. On the float with the strawberry "Capital" are the 1950 Strawberry Festival Queen, Etta Mae Helzer, and her Court. In the staging area for the 1954 festival is the elaborate chariot float, titled “The Champions", entered by the Atlantic Coastline Railroad. And, last, is this strawberry festooned float navigating the corner of Collins Street and Reynolds Street, between the Hillsboro State Bank and Magnolia Pharmacy, much to the pleasure of the delighted crowd.

This year the Grand Parade, the 69th since 1930, is set for Monday, March 1, and will run from Plant City's Historic Downtown to the Festival's stadium on West Reynolds Street. See you there!

Sources: Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr. Plant City: Its Origin and History, Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., and the Archives' Oral History Project 2004.

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AL RUECHEL The Search for Happiness

FFA helps students prepare for the Festival and the Future Here's my New Year's gift to you. Some advice I think is worth a million bucks. Make one resolution this year. Forget losing weight or trying to launch a new business or winning a political office or inventing a cure for cancer.

All those things are well and good but inevitably will prevent you from reaching the most important goal for 2004 or for any year for that matter.

Make a resolution to be happy; nothing more and nothing less.

Happiness is more than just a state of mind or money in the pocket. It is not some fancy 50-cent word tucked away in your secret wish book. It is not buying as many self-help books as you can cram into a grocery bag or carrying a checklist to make sure you are practicing one of the seven habits of highly effective people. It's not having to fake it at work and hoping your new positive attitude can mask the confusion or loneliness or dissatisfaction you feel in your ho-hum life.

Happiness is an inner kind of peace that causes you to sit back in traffic and actually enjoy the minute of peace while waiting for the light to change. It's the voice at the end of the day that says, "Hey, you did a bang up job!" when no one even noticed you entering the building. It's the excitement and relief you feel knowing you are going to be home in a few minutes, in your own domain, with no one to judge you or measure you against anyone else. It's not worrying about tomorrow until the new day dawns. It's knowing‌ not just believing‌ that there is some purpose for your life, even if you can't see it.

Several years ago I was unfairly demoted in my job as an anchor and put back on the streets. It was devastating for me at the time because I was forced to take a pay cut which nearly cost us our home. My news director at the time, who was not responsible for my reassignment, would call me into his office and could see the hurt in my eyes. "Don't take this so seriously. Just because one person makes a judgment about you that's wrong doesn't mean it's true. And besides, do you think God is all that impressed with what some boss thinks of you?"

Now, I have always been a man of faith. I truly believe and know that God has me

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here on earth for a number of reasons. I'm a great father and husband, and have always been an encourager. I can make people laugh and feel good about themselves. These things don't change about my internal character because someone on the outside can't see them, or is blinded to them for their own personal gain. It happens a lot in the TV and radio business. I had seen it a hundred times and should have been able to lump it

and move on. My first reaction was to go out and buy every book I could find on making career changes or finding that inner spark. No kidding, I bought over 20 different books in about three weeks hoping I could find a nugget of truth that would make this pain go away. None of those motivational geniuses had the spark or the "Soup" that I needed at the time. The giant motivational seminar I attend with 25-thousand other "seekers" was a bust because it made me feel even guiltier for not being happy.

Actually, my turnaround occurred in the privacy of my own car. I was listening to a tape of a North Carolina mountain stream with some nondescript strings thrown in. The birds were singing their symphony as the leaves of the trees rustled in the cool spring breeze. You

could feel the warmth of the sun as the rays danced across the glistening surface of the tumbling brook. In the distance I could hear my four kids, all under the age of 10, laughing and splashing water on each other. I could feel the approving and adoring gaze of the love of my life from the nearby bank. Time was suspended, the world's cares held at a bay by this perfect moment in the grand tapestry of my universe. Happiness was there for me anytime I wanted it, any time I wanted to step out of my pity party and into the glow of the things in life that really matter.

The key to being happy is not having what you want, but wanting what you have. I'd give credit to the original author of that phrase but I don't know who said it first. All I know is that happiness comes from being contented with whatever God has given you at that moment. Sometimes it seems He has given us an immeasurable wealth of things and friends and family. There are other times when the measurable blessings are few in number but plenty in their ability to satisfy.

I don't know where the beginning of 2004 finds you. But of all the gifts I could hope for you this year, happiness would be first. It's not found in any "thing" or any book. It begins and ends with you making the decision to turn from the negative and create the inner attitude of wanting what you have. The best part, though, is that happiness is a spiritual walk. If you can begin to comprehend and absorb that there is a God who loves you like you are, who has a plan for you, and who is accessible 24-hours a day, and obsesses over you unlike anything or anyone you have ever met, then happiness is within your reach. As the Good book says, "The eyes of the Lord search to and fro eagerly and gladly looking for those He can encourage."

That, my friend is you, and that, my friend is happiness.

Drop me a line if this happiness rings true for you this year. If not, write me anyway and maybe I can help you along the way. That is my commitment for you this year!

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COMMUNICATING TODAY STORY AND PHOTOS BY Yvonne Fry Send Questions & Comments to: yfry@floydpublications.com

Your Always On Connection Consumer Buck Watch

Basic Rate Plan Subscribers Should Consider Switching Plans - Basic rate plan subscribers have seen their bills increase by an average of 55% or more since 2000, according to a new survey (iii) by San Francisco-based watchdog group Consumer Action. Basic rate plans are the default plans that customers are assigned when they do not choose a plan with their long distance carrier. Many long distance carriers are introducing monthly charges or minimums on their basic rate plans, which can eliminate the savings that very lowvolume callers often receive with these plans. Basic rate plan subscribers may find that they can save money by switching plans.

Get Local and Long Distance Billed Separately to Avoid Fee Local service providers often offer an option of getting consumers' long distance bill included in their monthly local bills.

Consumers should check the long distance portion of their bills carefully because they are more than likely being charged a "single bill fee" for this convenience. This fee is especially likely if their long distance company is not the same as their local carrier. Consumers who find that they are being charged this "single bill fee" should contact their long distance provider and request that they be billed separately for long distance service. While there is an added inconvenience and cost in paying and mailing the long distance bill separately, consumers may find that they save several dollars per month by putting in the extra work.

Check Bills Carefully to Avoid New Fees - Make sure to pay attention to letters and notices included with your monthly bill to stay aware of changes to your account, including the introduction of new fees. According to FCC rules, carriers must notify plan subscribers in writing of any changes to their accounts. Unfortunately, many carriers often bury these notices in fine print or include them as loose flyers in your monthly bill. Keeping a close eye on all communications from your carrier could save you money at the end of the month.

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TRAVEL STORY AND PHOTOS BY KEN LAWRENCE Send Questions & Comments to: ktharrington@floydpublications.com

Welcome to the

“Best Little Tourist Bureau in Florida” If you're a newcomer, or a long time resident, Plant City's Tourist Bureau is worth a visit. Located on Park Road, just a few hundred feet south of Interstate-4, the former residence, now owned by the city government, is packed with information.

It's not only the information that will keep you occupied, but the volunteers who run the shop, a group of some 35 people who take turns 364 days a year in 2 shifts. Christmas Day is the only one when the Tourist Bureau is closed. Some of the volunteers are natives of Plant City and can entertain you with tales of the past. For example, some locals do not even know this legend.

Plant City is named after Henry B. Plant, founder of the railroad on the west coast of Florida and not after the agriculture industry, as some believe. The unverified story is that Henry B. Plant had a dispute with the local government of the town of Hichipucksassa (and you thought Thonotosassa was bad?)

It had to do with locating railroad yards in the area. When he was refused, Plant moved his operations to Tampa and when his passenger trains went through Hichipucksassa, the story is that the railway baron ordered all the shades in the coaches closed, so no one could see the community. Whether it's true or not is uncertain, but the town later changed its name to Plant City to apparently make amends.

When you visit the Tourist Bureau, maybe one of the volunteers can

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embellish on this tale.

Funded by the Plant City Chamber of Commerce, the Tourist Bureau has information on places to eat, to visit, to stay overnight and even Real Estate, your writer's profession.

There are coupons for discounts at events, including Busch Gardens, Disney World, Universal and on goes the list.

On the day we visited, a lovely lady, Iola

Langford, sang the praises of former mayor Mike Sparkman for his efforts to keep the Tourist Bureau functioning properly As we suggested, take time out, even if you live in the area and visit the Plant City Tourist Bureau. You'll drive away filled with information about our great community and discount coupons to boot!

EVENT CALENDAR SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL: SFBH will be hosting the following events to support Heart Month for community health (CH) and parish nursing (PN): •Every Tuesday-free blood pressure (CH) •2/2-6p-10p- CPR Basic Life Support (CH) •2/4-Free Blood pressure at First Baptist Church (PN) •2/8-First Baptist Church Health Fair-Free BMI, Blood pressure and TC/HDL/glucose, blood profiles ($12) •2/21-8am-12n-free blood pressure, glucose and total cholesterol at the YMCA's Annual Run (CH) 12n-3pm-free CPR Family and Friends class at YMCA (CH) •2/22-Midway Baptist Church Health Fair-Free blood pressure, BMI/TC/HDL/Glucose (PN) DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION: •February 20-22,Wooden Bat Tourney at the Plant City Stadium. Deadline to register is February 16.

•February 20-22, Guns and Hoses Softball Tournament. Registration deadline February 11, contact Rocky at 659-4200 x4302.

COMMUNITY INPUT MEETING COMING TO PLANT CITY: •March 10th, 6-8 p.m. at the Hillsborough Community College Florida Studies Building at 1206 N. Park Road. To discuss the impact of impending growth in Hillsborough County.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: •Feb. 21,Pregnancy Care, Walk for Life.

•Feb. 21,4-9pm, Strawberry Classic Car ShowHistoric Downtown Plant City •Mar. 6,5-9 pm, Plant City Bike Fest- Historic Downtown Plant City •Mar. 13,9 am-3 pm, Plant City Antiques Street Fair- Historic Downtown Plant City •Mar. 13, 7pm, Florida Opry- 1914 PCHS Community Center BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY: 302 McLendon Street • 757-9215 Regular Hours: Monday - Thursday 9a.m.-9p.m.

Friday 9a.m.- 6p.m. • Sat 10a.m.-6p.m.

Sunday 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Holiday Hours: Closed Feb 16th and Mar 1st Toddler Time, Tuesday, February 17, and 24, and March 2, 16, 23, and 30 at 9:30 a.m. for ages 15 months - 2 ½ years and their caregivers. Stories, finger plays, and songs make up this fun 20-minute program.

Preschoolers, Tuesday, February 17, and 24, and March 2, 16, 23, and 30 at 10:30 a.m. for ages 2 ½ - 5 years who can sit by themselves in a group.

Stories, finger plays, songs, and filmstrips make up this fun 30-minute program.

Baby Time, Thursday, February 19, and 26, and FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15 • 2004 PG124

March 4, 11, and 18 at 10:00 a.m. for babies from birth - 14 months and their caregivers. Share board books, rhymes, songs, games, and quality time together while instilling a love of reading and regular library visits in this 20-minute session.

ADULT PROGRAMS MASTER GARDENING: Invasive Species Identification and Removal, Monday, March 8, 7:30 p.m. Master Gardener Lisa Strange will discuss plants that are invasive to our area, how to identify them, and how to get them out of your yard.

Book Discussion: “Anna in the Tropics”, by Nilo Cruz, Tuesday, March 2, 11:00 a.m. Book available for check out at the circulation desk.

COMPUTER CLASSES: The following are demonstration classes with handouts. No registration is required.

•Searching the Internet, Wednesday, February 18, 10:00-11:00 a.m. A class for those who have some experience using the Internet. Will discuss Internet search techniques, search engines, refining your search, and saving and downloading.

•Catalog Simplified©, Thursday, March 4, 2:00 3:00 p.m. Learn how to search for your favorite author or title in our new and improved online catalog. Learn how to view your record, place a hold, and renew an item with only a couple of clicks with your mouse.

•Investing Resources, Wednesday, February 25, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Investors need help sometimes.

Come join us for a demonstration of the various Investing Resources the Library has to assist you in meeting your investing goals.

•Intro to Computers, Wednesday, March 3, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Learn about the keyboard, mouse, the CPU, and other parts of a computer.

Learn about the Windows environment. Time for questions and answers.

•Basic Computer Skills, Wednesday, March 10, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Learn how to create folders and save items to those folders. Learn how to customize the desktop on your computer.

•Troubleshooting and Maintaining Your Computer, Wednesday, March 17, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Learn how to keep your computer in good working order. Will demonstrate how to uninstall programs, delete temporary files and more.

•Intro to Word Processing, Wednesday, March 24, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Learn the basics of word processing. Will demonstrate typing documents in Microsoft Word, how to save, how to print, and how to add clip art.

•Intro to Genealogy, Wednesday, March 31, 10:00-11:00 a.m. How do I get started on my genealogy? Where can I go for information on the Census? These and more questions will be answered in this one-hour demonstration class. An online demonstration of the Ancestry Plus and Heritage Quest databases will be presented.

These classes are hands-on computer classes using the library's wireless computing lab. As space is limited, registration is required. Please call 757-9215 to register.

•Catalog Simplified©: Hands-On, Thursday, February 19, 2:00-3:00 p.m. or Thursday, March 18, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Learn how to search for your favorite author or title in our new and improved online catalog. Learn how to view your record, place a hold, and renew an item with only a couple of clicks with your mouse. Library card is required. Patrons need to have keyboarding and mouse skills.

•Hands-On Intro to Word, Monday, February 23, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. or 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Learn the basics of word processing. Practice creating, saving, and editing documents.

•Hands-On Intro to the Internet, Monday, March 15, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. or 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. A beginner's guide to surfing the web. Learn Internet terminology, how to use Internet browsers, and how to save favorite sites.

•Hands-On Intro to Email, Monday, March 22, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. or 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. A beginner's guide to email, including how to sign up for free email accounts, how to compose messages and send attachments, how to delete email, and how to open attachments.

•Hands-On Searching the Internet, Monday, March 29, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. or 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. A class for those who have some experience using the Internet. Learn how to more effectively search the Internet using search engines and subject directories. Practice search techniques in class.

ART EXHIBITS Digital Photography - In February, come and see Ross Chandler's digital photographs.

ARTS COUNCIL OF PLANT CITY Cheryl Worsham and the Concert Committee are hosting a 'Fabulous Fifties' revue, Saturday, Feb. 21 at 7:00 p.m. This will be our main concert of the year! The event will be held at the lovely Magic Moments Hall & Gardens Banquet Facility at 2207 Mudlake Road, Plant City, 33567. Use of this venue was generously donated to the Council by Susan and Stanley Kolker. The evening will begin with a delicious catered meal, after which, guests will be treated to an original production with an all-star cast, including special guest, Omar Almodovar.

Enjoy listening (and dancing) to your favorite oldies from the fifties and early sixties. We welcome our guests to dress in traditional sock hop attire (poodle skirts, T-shirts & jeans) if they wish. Jossie Azorin has donated one of her beautiful paintings for us to raffle at this event. Alcoholic beverages will not be available so be sure to bring your own wine, if you wish to imbibe. Wine glasses will be available. Reserved seating. Groups of six or more may reserve a full table. For best seating, reserve early. The tickets are $35 per person for members & $38 per person for non-members. For tickets & information please contact Cheryl Worsham at 813-973-1770.

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