The Festival is over and it seems that it went off without a hitch! It is so much fun to watch the community come together for such a wonderful event! It really could not happen without all of the volunteers, and there are plenty of volunteers! One of my very dear friends, Misty Taylor, who is from Bradenton and has only been here a short while, even decided to get involved as a Roving Hostess this year. She has expressed to me many times how much she enjoys living in a small town and loves the fact that she is raising a family here. What better way to show your pride than to volunteer at the Festival? And yes, I did enter Cooper in the Diaper Derby. And no, we did not win! She was more interested in making friends with the baby next to her than to crawl after my keys. But, isn’t that what it’s all about anyway? Dad was at the beginning of the race trying to get her started, mom was at the end trying to get her attention, and she was making friends. Most importantly, we were together! It was also great to see my friends who also had their babies there, some of them I haven’t seen in years! There is so much in this issue. We talked with Batista, Sr. and Evelyn Madonia about the Renovation of the Ramada. You will not believe the changes that have been made! We have a five star hotel right here in Plant City! We interviewed the candidates for the commission seat so that the citizens can cast an informed vote! And be sure to read the education section to see what great things Tomlin Middle School has been up to. You may be surprised! Again I must say, this is a great place to live and work and we hope that comes through in Focus. Until next issue…Happy Reading!
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 4
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Childhood friends Amber Kosinsky and Becky Bavinger represent Plant City on their school’s dance team. Amber attends the University of Florida and is a member of the “Dazzlers”. Becky attends Georgetown University and is a member of the “Hoya Dance Team”. Both teams perform at the halftime shows for their schools’ basketball games.
Cheerdance, Gym, Championship Clogging
Bonnie Kramer Broadway Touring in Scarlet Pimpernel 2004
Deana Pittman around town feature story spotlight interview did you know?
City & County Spread Rabies Vaccine for Varmints
Miss Orlando Miss Florida Miss America National Finalist
The Recreation & Parks Department is not always handling leisure service scheduling and facility maintenance. We also are a part of a program to help distribute bait containing an oral rabies vaccination. The matchbook-size bait packets, which reek of fish oil, can help reduce humans’ exposure to rabies. The bait smells awful but is harmless if consumed by a dog or other animal. If you come in contact with one, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly as soon as possible to avoid a reaction to your skin. `The bait targets raccoons, and will be distributed starting February 23 throughout the I-4 corridor, from Pinellas County through Hillsborough County, including portions of the Plant City area. The baits are distributed by hand, as well as by air with helicopters. For more information, you can check the Hillsborough County web site at: www.hillsboroughcounty.org/vaccine_qa.html Dual Enrollment is available at Hillsborough Community College to High School Seniors. For More information contact HCC at (813) 757-6760. Hope Lutheran Church of Plant City is now offering after school tutoring. It is designed for students in grades K-12 to strengthen reading and math skills, improve grades and reduce study time. The program guarantees that each child will advance at least one year. The program is available through Knowledge Points in partnership with the Improvement League of Plant City. The cost is $25 per hour. For more information contact the learning center at Hope Lutheran at 813-754-7788. The main exhibit hall at the Florida Strawberry Festival was built a few years after the festival was established, but it’s never had a name – until now. The building has been officially named after Roy and Helen Parke, owners of Parkesdale Farm Market and Parkesdale Farms, Inc., for their many years of dedication to the event and to strawberry farming. Congratulations Roy and Helen on the well-deserved honor. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 7
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"Acade'moo' Awards" entertainment by the dairy costume ball contestants story by: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
If this were the academy awards the winners would accept their award saying, "Moo would like to thank the judges...." Yep, you guessed it; Sunday Feb. 29th was the annual Dairy Costume Ball at the Plant
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 8
City Strawberry Festival, located in the Livestock Tent. At about 1 p.m. the contestants filed in with their humans, decked out in fabulous pageant wear. Every costume was uniquely different from the other and every owner wore an ensemble that completed each theme. There were 26 contestants who proudly marched around the arena strutting their stuff for the judges and crowd. All of us waited in anticipation to hear the announcement of winners and to congratulate them for all the hard work, preparation, and creativity that led up to today's event. The judges, Amy & Selena Bruster, had their jobs cut out for them. I know it was tough to pick the winners with so many great costumes. Here
are the overall winners in the following categories: Funniest - Starstruck & Brandon Carey (Costume - Cheese & Packers) Prettiest - Buttercup & Brooke Summerlin (Costume - Moory Christmas) Most Original - P recious & Nate Tomlinson (Costume - Pirates of the "Cow" ibbean) Most Colorful - Peanut & Trent Johnson (Joseph & The Amazing Dairy Cow of Colors) Best Overall - Milkshake & Brianna Bahr (Strawberry Shortcake) This was such a fun event and a highlight of the Festival. Many of the contestants and owners come from families who have been long time participants in the Dairy Costume Ball and the Strawberry Festival. What a wonderful family tradition. If you missed it this year, look up this event on your next visit to the festival. Thank you to the Florida Mineral Salt & Agricultural Products who sponsored the Costume Ball.
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"Painting the Town" herndon’s battlezone and supply is your local paintball field story & photos by: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
Nearly everyone has heard of Paintball, but have you played? That's what I ask everyone now. I have spent more hours than I could have imagined just learning about the sport, as well as getting some really cool pics. I am fascinated by every aspect of it from the devotion of its players to the rules of the game. I have a lot to learn, but I am on my way. The first thing I l e a rned is how important pro t e c t i o n is...everywhere you can wear it. One of the most i n t e resting facts is who plays Paintball. Everyone from the average Joe and Jane, to stockbrokers, doctors, lawyers and even famous people like Mel Gibson, Will Smith, Wi l l i a m Shatner, and the Lakers team members. I know what you are saying. It's so military. Not anymore. Yeah, there is still some of that, but for the most part the sport is changing. Instead of playing in the woods in a hunting type a t m o s p h e re, more and more paintball field owners are setting up arenas with different types
of barriers that are well kept and in plain view of spectators. Even the clothing is changing from military fatigues to more c o l o rful wear. Herndon's Battlezone and Supply is the local Paintball field, owned by Mark Herndon. His arenas are well kept and he has plenty of supplies to p u rchase. On Fridays you can participate in nighttime paintball. The one thing I can say about paintball is, you won't know if you like it until you try it. To find out more about Herndon's, check out their website at w w w. b a t t l e z o n e a n d s u p p l y.com. There you can find directions to the field and hours of operation or you can call: 813986-8812. For information on a new upcoming Florida-based Paintball magazine email floridapaintballmag@hot-shot.com
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 9
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Chamber of Commerce story by: BRUCE RODWELL brodwell@floydpublications.com
The purpose of this Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce page 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.
administration and more. COMPuPAY saves clients valuable time, leaving them to concentrate on growing their business. Ashley Kelly is the District Manager and she can be reached at 800-330-1242 or via e-mail at ashleykelly@compupay.com.
How about that Strawberry Festival? Did you know our Strawberry Festival is one of the hot spots in the Southeast Tourism Society’s list of top events? It’s true. And it seems to get better each year. The Chrysler Sound Stage was rocking with music each afternoon and evening during the 11 days of the Festival, with some 15,000 people packed into those seats to enjoy the music.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS !!!
The Festival is a real community event. There are hundreds of volunteers that make this possible. These volunteers have the job of making people feel welcome, all the time making sure the visitors to our wonderful City enjoy themselves and have a good time. And how about those Queens? The Chamber congratulates queen Katie Sharer and her court, first maid Ashley Pippin, and court members Crystal Wiggins, LeAnna Blake and Lyndsey Terry. These young gals represented our City well during the Festival and will continue doing so till next year at this time. The Chamber’s BIKE FEST continues to draw huge crowds. If you have not had the opportunity to take this event in, you owe it to yourself to “make the scene” and take a look at all the motorcycles that participate in this monthly event. There are vendors selling their wares, some of the Plant City downtown businesses remain open and its just a great fun time for the whole family. The next BIKE FEST will be April 3 rd. Remember, it’s always the first Saturday of the month. Mark your calendars!
MARCH 18 THROUGH 20 TH – Spring Health Check at South Florida Baptist Hospital. This health check includes blood profiles, skin cancer checks, osteoporosis evaluation, mammograms and prostate/PSA checks. Registration is required and appointment time can be made by calling 813-754-4444. MARCH 20 TH – Model Railroad swap meet at 1914 High School from 9 AM to 3 PM. MARCH 20 TH - Strawberry Classic Car Show in Historic Downtown Plant City from 4 to 9 PM. MARCH 20 TH – Spring Western Fling (Benefits East Hillsborough Friends of The Spring), Steve Otto & Freddie Johnson will be cooking chili & barbecue. There will be music and fun. Starts at 6:30 PM. at Grandpa Johnson’s, corner Alexander and MLK, Plant City. Western attire suggested. Tickets can be purchased from Stanley or Susan Kolker. Call them at 757-6277. . MARCH 21 ST – Fine Arts Series at First United Methodist Church, Plant City. Lisa Franks, concert pianist will perform. Admission is free. Starts at 7 PM. MARCH 22 ND – City Commission meeting at City Hall – 7:30 PM.
In addition to the Bike Fest mentioned above, the Chamber’s STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW is another great event that takes place in Historic Downtown Plant City. This event happens on the third Saturday of the month. The next car show will be April 17 th. This is also a great family event and lots of fun. Remember the SOFTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME which will take place on March 22 nd. at Plant City Stadium. Game time is 7 PM. At this writing, it has not been determined which teams will play for the championship. There are eight teams that compete. It’s co-ed and lots of fun. The teams involved are from Kazbor’s, Beef O”Brady’s. Family and Friends, Excel Printing/Rick’s Lawn Service, South Florida Baptist Hospital, Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Yates Masonry, and Family & Friends. This is great fun and a time to come out to our ball park and cheer for your favorite. Bring the family and your camera. Catch your favorite player in action!
MARCH 27 TH – Florida Opry, 1914 High School, 7 PM. MARCH 27 TH - Plant City Entertainment Chocolate Festival at the Depot on Palmer Street. Call Dottie White at 621-0851 or 927-0595 for further information. This event runs from 10 AM to 1 PM. APRIL 3 RD – Healthy Kids Day & Easter Egg Hunt, Plant City YMCA. underway at 9 AM and runs till noon.
Gets
APRIL 3 RD – Children’s Fun Fest at Hillsborough Community College. Children can participate in arts and crafts. There will be entertainment and refreshments. Call Marsha Passmore 754-2301 or Sharon Everidge 752-1683 after 3 PM for details. This event runs from 11 AM to 2 PM.
SPOTLIGHT ON MEMBERS APRIL 10 TH – Antique Street Fair, Downtown Plant City. 9 AM till 3 PM. COLONIAL BANK, 2318 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City. At Colonial they believe in the spirit of community, being able to share their time and resources with Plant City residents. They offer a full range of banking services and are members of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. You can call them at 813-759-1240. PLANT CITY AWNING & ALUMINUM PRODUCTS, 806 Woodrow Wilson Street, Plant City. Their slogan is “Don’t Move, Improve.” They specialize in siding and soffits, window awnings, glass rooms, pool enclosures and carports. They are a full service aluminum contractor and offer easy bank financing. Call 813-659-2501 for a free, friendly estimate. COMPuPAY, 877 Executive Center Drive West, Suite #102, St. Petersburg. Founded in 1980 COMPuPAY offers payroll solutions for the everyday business and provides its clients with accurate payroll service while maintaining a personal approach to customer service. They offer a wide scope of services such as payroll, tax filing, benefits FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 10
APRIL 12 TH – City Commission, City Hall, 7:30 PM. APRIL 13 THROUGH 19 TH – Sun ‘N Fun at Lakeland airport. This will be the 30th. anniversary of this great event. APRIL 16-17 TH – American Cancer Society Relay For Life. This annual event takes place at Plant City High School. Opening ceremonies begin at 6 PM on April 16 th. For additional information contact Cindi Herrera at 813-685-0670, ext. 112. DATE TO REMEMBER…..November 6 th. This is the date for the 9 th. Annual SPRING HARVEST BALL at the Ramada Inn. This year’s theme is “Reach For The Stars”. Mark your calendar so you can plan to attend. This helps support the efforts of the East Hillsborough Friends of The Spring.
SPRING $AVINGS QUALITY CARS... AFFORDABLE PRICES... AFFORDABLE PAYMENTS
96 Buick Regal
V6, LOADED, Super Clean $4950
00 Chevy Malibu
V6, Low Miles, Loaded $6950
93 Mercury Sable LS, Moonroof, Leather, Low Miles .....................$3650 99 Ford Escort SE, Extra Clean, PW, PL, AT, AC .............................$4950 99 Ford ZX2, Sport Coupe, AT, AC, Low Miles ................................ $5950 *Financing Available on All Units
96 Cadillac DeVille
Leather, Only 66,000 Miles, Nice$7950
96 Mazda 626LX
Loaded, Extra Clean $8950
99 Toyota Corolla, Low M iles, AT, AC, Clean.............................. $6950 95 Olds Aurora, Low Miles, Leather, Luxury Options, Super Nice .........$7950 99 Honda Accord EX, Leather, Moonroof, Clean ......................... $8950 01 Mitsubishi Galant ES, V6, AT, AC, PW, PL, Black ....................$8650
QUALITY TRUCKS... AFFORDABLE PRICES... AFFORDABLE PAYMENTS
00 Ford Ranger XLT Only 52,000 miles, Cold AC $6950
97 Chevy Cheyenne Short Bed, Clean, Cold AC, Nice$8350
91 Chevy Silverado 4x4, Loaded, Tutone, Clean .............................$4950 99 Ford Ranger Supercab 4dr, V6, AT, AC .......................................$7950 97 Chevy Cheynne Xcab, V8, AT, AC, Super Clean......................... $8750 97 Dodge Dakota SLT X Cab 4x4, Loaded, V8 Tutone ....................$9650
99 Chevy Silverado LX xCab V8, LOADED, Clean $11950
98 Chevy 3500 Dually Crew Cab Silverado, Loaded, Clean
$14950
99 Dodge Ram 2500 SLT Quad Cab, Heavy Duty, Clean ...........$10950 98 GMC Sierra SLE x Cab, V8, Loaded, Tutone..........................$10950 98 Ford F150XL SuperCab 4x4, V8, AT, AC nice........................ $11950 00 Ford F150 XLT Supercab 4dr, V8, Loaded, Clean................. $12950
QUALITY SUV’S & MINIVANS... AFFORDABLE PRICES... AFFORDABLE PAYMENTS
98 Dodge Caravan 4dr, 7Pass, AT, AC, Red $3950
96 Ford Explorer XLT Moonroof, Leather, CD Changer, LOADED
$7650
98 Ford Windstar GL, Low Miles, Loaded, Very Clean ...................$5450 99 Plymouth Grand Voyager SE, V6, 4dr, Loaded ...........................$5950 97 Dodge Ram Conversion Van 2500, Loaded, Low Miles .............$6950
98 Chevy Blazer LS 4x4 Low Miles, Full Power, Very Clean $8650
99 Chevy Suburban LT Super Clean, 3rd Seat, Rear AC, Leather
$12950
95 Chevy Suburban, Loaded, 3rd Seat, Rear AC......................... $8750 97 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4x4, Leather Loaded ..............$9850 99 Chevy Suburban LT 4x4, Tutone, Leather, Thrid Rear Seat, AC.......$13950
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"Be My Valentine" local bachelor auction raises money for scholarships story & photo by: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
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813.707.0892 Zurich Certain-T (policy forms R-3210, R-3213 and X-3224) is term life insurance by Federal Kemper Life Assurance Company, a Zurich Life company, Schaumburg, IL, with premiums guaranteed level for 10,15,20 or 30 years. Annual premiums include a $60 policy fee for face amounts below $250,000 and a $50 policy fee at $250,000 face amount and above. Annual premiums are shown for male non-tobacco premier rate class. Non-tobacco means no tobacco use of any kind in the last 60 months for Premier rate class and 36 months for Preferred rate class. Not available in all states. Limitations may apply
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 12
The way life should be.®
As a single gal, Valentines Day could be the highlight of my year if I just had the right date. What if I could pick that date? When I found out that this event was going to take place I was the first to volunteer to cover it. I thought it would be an absolutely fun evening and I was right. A few lucky women of Plant City had the opportunity to pick their Valentine date at the first annual "Be My Valentine Bachelor Auction" held at the Hillsborough Community College in the Florida Studies Building on February 12th. It was a benefit to raise scholarship money for the Hillsborough County Education Foundation College Scholarship for Durant and Plant City High School Young Women of Promise. The American Business Women's Association put on the night of fun. Everything began at 6:30 with a mingle, where the handsome bachelors served strawberries dipped in chocolate to a room full of very excited ladies. That gave us a chance to talk to the bachelors and find out whom we might like to bid on. Soon the doors to the main room opened and we filed in to find a lovely atmosphere graced with floating valentine balloons and beautifully decorated tables with heart shaped chocolates strewn strategically at each setting just waiting to be unwrapped and eaten. A cash bar, Hors D’oeuvres, and a tasty buffet were also available. The auction began with the host announcer, Tampa Bay News Personality Sondra Guffey, bringing all the guys out so we could see all of them at once. After the initial parade each guy had his chance to come out and tell a little bit about himself and strut his stuff. The bids began at $100 and increased in increments of $50. It was very exciting. All of the guys were very handsome and brave. It took a lot of guts to get up there in front of all those women. There were 16 men of all ages and backgrounds so it is safe to say there was someone who everyone would be interested in bidding on. According to the final tallies there were two highest
bids of $1000 and $1050. After all was said and done the total amount raised was $11,000 after expenses. That is fantastic! I was curious to find out what it was like from the participating bachelor's point of view so I asked Alan Holmes, from Maxim Healthcare Services, why he decided to be part of the event. He told me he thought it would be a great way to meet new people and he would not hesitate to participate again. He was happy he could help such a worthy cause. The scholarship program provides monies to a female student at Durant or Plant City High School who carries an unweighted 2.5 GPA and demonstrates financial need. The applicant who is chosen is named "Young Promise" by the Plant City ABWA chapter and presented the scholarship at their local high school awards program. The ABWA Plant City Chapter is grateful to all the volunteers, supporters, bachelors, and sponsors. I especially want to thank all those people who took time to talk to me: Shannon Mitchell, Community Affairs Coordinator at the South Florida Baptist Hospital, Robert Cone at the Tampa Tribune, and Alan Holmes from Maxim Healthcare Services. If interested in knowing more about or joining the American Business Women's Association, you can call 813-752-5863.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 13
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Plant City Gets an “A” for Agriculture program prepares graduates to serve as representatives of agriscience professions story by: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
The Florida Agriscience Leadership Program for 20032004 brought agriculture teachers from all over Florida for a visit to Plant City to learn about our strawberries so they can take the information back to their classrooms and share it with their students. While they were here they visited the Ron Wetherington Farms, Hinton
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 14
Produce, and the Strawberry Lab. Only 18 teachers and 2 administrators were chosen to receive special training for the next 12 months to improve on their leadership skills. The program prepares the graduates to serve as spokespersons and representatives of the agriscience teaching professions. During their 12 months the itinerary is full with visits to state government offices,
education facilities, production agriculture farms and other agriculture related business. They will travel from the Pan Handle to the southern tip of Florida. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Department of Education, Ag in the Classroom, Florida Farm Bureau and Central Florida Farm Credit is funding the Leadership Program. Many of the agricultural related businesses provide speakers, event and educational materials to help support the program. Currently the Leadership Program is in progress with the current year class as well as the selection process for next year. The Florida Agriscience Leadership Program is gaining attention across the country, not just with the Florida FFA advisors and leaders. Efforts have also been made to present the program to education associations. This is a wonderful investment in our children's education, not to mention how valuable it is to the teachers and advisors who devote their lives to teaching. Now they can do their jobs even better as well as continuing to be role models and mentors in the agriscience field. Thank you to Robert Rollerson for bringing this program to our attention and for all your help with information for our readers.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 15
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Citizen of the Year Award judy barta is plat city’s outstanding citizen for 2004
The Plant City “Singles Scene”
story by: SHERRI ROBINSON photos by: BILLY FRIEND
story by: TERESA GRIFFIN
srobinson@floydpublications.com
Shhhhh...don't tell anyone. The Citizen of the Year could be sitting next to you or if you were Judy Barta, it could be you. The Outstanding Citizen of Plant City Aw a rd Ceremony was an annual event for her to attend so she suspected nothing, but as the list of achievements were read off, she began to realize that they were talking about her. Her face was filled with honor and emotion when her name was called. The room was filled with applause and her family joined her on the side. I caught up with Judy on Sunday at the Lion's Club food booth at the S t r a w b e rry Festival, where she volunteers every year. Judy has been involved with the Lion's Club for many years as the past 1st Wo m a n P resident and currently the club's secre t a ry. She is also the past p resident of East Hillsborough Historical Society, as well as being involved in many other community organizations. In 1990 she re c e i v e d the Woman of Achievement Aw a rd. She has been employed at Sunshine Federal Savings and Loan for the past 32 years as Vice President of Human Resources, as well as doing Advertising and Marketing. She is also very involved in her church at St. Clement Catholic Church as Eucharist Minister and Lectern. Judy told me she has enjoyed all of her community involvements. She is not only busy in the community, but she has a wonderful family who is v e ry proud of her. She has t h ree children, Stephen, Kevin, and Jennifer and has also been blessed with two beautiful granddaughters, Hailey, 11, and Jade, 4. Her husband of 43 years, R o b e rt, has been a g reat support to her. C a s p e r, Romeo, Alex, and Muddy are four v e ry lucky felines that complete the Bart a F a m i l y. Thank you, J u d y, for all your years of service in our community and congratulations on your award .
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 16
As a single woman in her 30’s, I wonder, are you often faced with the dilemma, To Lie or Not to Lie? Or maybe a better question to ask yourself would be, the whole truth or not the whole truth? After all, when we reach our 30’s & 40’s and find ourselves still single, or maybe single again for the first time in a long time, much has usually happened in our past that we wonder: Will the whole truth be too scary for someone else to hear? After all, we may not be proud of a situation or maybe we are concerned we will come across as arrogant by sharing the entire details of a success, Is this question being asked because someone is interested in financial or social status? Or….. Are they just plain nosy? Do you find yourself facing this situation not only in the dating arena, but also in our everyday lives, at work, or social activities? Let’s face it; sometimes it is just not any fun. Being from a community that is close knit has a lot of positives but also some negatives. One of the positives would be everyone knows everyone or we know someone else that does; but this could also be a negative, after all, one bad move and you’re done for. What if we could get one Do-Over in life, would you take it? How many times have we thought, oh, I wish I could take back what I just said, or if only I had decided not to take that situation quite that far. But we also have to ask ourselves this, if we take that one Do-over, how do we know the decision we make today is the best one to replace the original decision. Let’s face it, our past is our past. It makes us who we are today. So maybe we did go a little too crazy at that New Years Eve bash in 1987. Did we learn anything from it? Maybe. Are we still learning from everything we do as each year goes by? I am, and I’m also still making mistakes. How about you? Would I trade who I am today? Not on your life. Do I always tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth…How about you?
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 17
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Walk for Life another success story for the pregnancy care center of plant city story & photos by: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
Registration for the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City Walk For Life began at 8 am on a cool Saturday morning, February 21st, at the Plant City Stadium Complex. It was a two-mile walk to raise funds. This organization has been very important in the lives of many young women who find themselves in a difficult situation in life. The center makes it their mission to provide information to women about their pregnancy, as well as material assistance, such as infant and maternity clothes and emergency diapers and formula. The Pregnancy Care Center is a faith based, non - profit corporation that provides totally free services to anyone facing an unplanned pregnancy. Last year over 1400 clients visited, so you can see how valuable this walk was to them. Bruce Rodwell was the Master of Ceremonies, Rev. Maxie Miller gave the Invocation, and Amber Davis sang the National Anthem. The track filled with anxious men, women, children, and man's best friends walking and running side by side on the route planned out by Coach Mike Storter.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 18
Even the little ones insisted on keeping up with the group by riding in wagons, or skating their way to the finish line. It takes everyone working together to make an event like this one successful. Alan Holland and team provided the music & sound equipment, Badcock Furniture took care of the tent so it was ready and waiting, Vinson Bros. Produce provided fruit, and Culligan and Michaels Water donated water. The center was proud to announce that over 100 people were in attendance and though the final totals raised are not tallied yet, they do know that over $10,000 was received in sponsor donations and pledges. We are once again reminded of how caring and involved our community is. If you would like more information or would like to donate in any way, you can contact Mary Alice Hendricks, Executive Director, at (813) 759-0886 - Fax (813) 759-0882, Email: pccdirector@ifriendly.com or carecenter@ifriendly.com or visit the center at 304 North Collins Street in Plant City.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 19
LOCAL
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Parks & Recreations Does It All youth and adult pro g rms are provided story & photos by: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
Most of us are aware of how important the City of Plant City Parks and Recreation D e p a rtment is to our town. They provide youth and adult sports, as well as having fantastic facilities on 74.659 acres to house their events. Now, let's talk softball. If we do that, we have to talk about the Plant City Stadium & Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex. Last year it hosted the 2003 Southeastern Conference Softball To u rnament. It is also the home of the International Softball Federation, Tampa Bay FireStix, and Florida Wahoos of the Women's Professional Softball League, and the future home of The Softball Hall of Fame. After all that, there is no need to tell you what a great place it is to play sports or just watch a great game of softball. Recently the firefighters from several counties competed against each other. I hope it was as much fun for them to play as it was to watch. Martin Co. Fire Dept., Jensen Beach took the Trophy for the day. Congratulations Guys! One type of softball game that is really catching on is the Monday night Co-Ed Ball. It is played with a 16" ball. A few rules are diff e rent, but it is still basic softball. If you are interested in finding out more about the softball schedule, fees, and directions, go to their home page at www.plantcitygov.com/rec You can also call the Event Info Line at 813-659-4292. Rocky Ellingsworth is the Athletic Manager for softball. You can reach him by phone at 813-659-4200 ext. 4302 Days or email him at rellingsworth@plantcitygov.com. There is no excuse not to get out there and have some winter fun. It is fantastic exercise and a great way to make new friends or learn something new.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 20
Local Babies Compete to be “Berry” Fast! diaper derby provides light-hearted entertainment to locals story by: KELLI THARNGTON photos by: BILLY FRIEND srobinson@floydpublications.com
And they’re off! All you could see were baby feet and baby bottoms at the Strawberry Festival’s Diaper Derby. It’s just another activity to get everyone in the family involved, even the babies. It was a full house under the Entertainment Tent at the Festival. Family and friends packed the house to see their little ones compete. All contestants had to be Hillsborough County residents, and there were several events to choose from. There is the diaper-decorating contest, of course, the derby and several different categories of cuteness such as most handsome boy and prettiest girl. While everyone there did not go home with the winning trophy, it had to be an incredibly hard job for the judges, because each and every baby there was a winner. What really makes this event stand out is that there are mothers and fathers, together with their babies, and aunts and uncles, grandmas and grandpas, all there just to cheer on one special little person. Cameras click every second to record memories that will last a lifetime! The winners are as follows: Decorated Diaper Strawberry Florida Berried Treasure Funniest Most Creative Prettiest Girl 6-9 Months 10-12 Months 13-15 Months 16-18 Months Most Handsome Boy 6-9 Months 10-12 Months 13-15 Months Biggest Eyes Chubbiest Checks Most Hair Diaper Derby 6-8 Months 9-12 Months Fastest Crawling Baby
Child's Name Paris Madeline Christie Avery Laverne Jones Cayden James Knipp Savannah Nicole Newberry
Parent's Name T.K. and Shelley Christie Melissa Jones April Knipp Tommy Newberry
Haley Hope Harrod Alyssa C. Barrett McKenna Sage Jordan Abigail Leanna Fretsch
Jessica Frier Brett Barrett Chad & Tiffani Jordan Karen Fretsch
Orion Javier Harrison Reid Parker Stakelum Chancey Delane Johnson Cayden James Knipp Meadow Isabella Villa Julia Claire Russo
Derrick & Denise Harrison Chris & Brittany Stakelum Steven & Tiffany Johnson April Knipp Trisha Villa Carmin & Sarah Russo
Cooper Marzka Daisy Duke Daisy Duke
David & Brandi Marzka Hollie & JW Duke Hollie & JW Duke
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 21
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[ aroundtown ]
Motorcycle Run for Benjamin 10-year-old boy with bone cancer needs your help! story by: LINDA
FLOYD lfloyd@floydpublications.com
Benjamin is a 10-year old homeschooler who has been diagnosed with small cell osteosarcoma, an aggressive form of bone cancer. He is the son of Mark and Susan and the brother of five siblings, one sister and four brothers. His family has lived in Brandon for many years. They attend church in Plant City. They are members of CHEPC, a Plant City home school group. The family was in the process of changing their insurance, and through some different circumstances, ended up with no health insurance when Benjamin’s cancer was diagnosed. Thus was born Benefits for Benjamin. There will be a Benefit Motorcycle Run for Benjamin, police escorted, on Saturday, March 20, 2004. Registration is at 9:30 am at Big Dog Motorcycles, out at 10:30 am. There is a $10 registration fee, which includes a t-shirt. First Stop: Skippers Smokehouse, with live music and drink and food specials. Second Stop: Rivers Edge – Third Stop: Captain Jacks, with drink and food specials. There will be lots of raffle and auction items. I would like to add the fact that John, owner of Bill’s Prescription Center in Brandon, is supplying all of Benjamin’s prescriptions for free. If you would like to make a non-tax deductible donation, please make checks payable to
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 22
Benjamin Eaves Trust Fund, c/o Kathleen Watson, 1101 Mendonsa Road, Plant City, Fl 33563. For information on Benjamin, please visit www.benefitsforbenjamin.org.
[ aroundtown ]
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Picturesque Sheep: the strawberry festival sheep costume contest story by: GINNY STEWART gstewart@floydpublications.com
We entered the Lamb tent to find many onlookers gathered around a circular gated area. Inside this area was a vast array of interesting looking livestock. I must admit, I have never been to a sheep costume contest, nor could I have ever imagined that they held such contests. However, my arrival at this year’s contest gave me the reason they do – hilarity. Yes, hilarity, if the sheep didn’t look funny enough, the kids trying to maneuver them around the enclosure sure did. I had always heard that goats were the most stubborn of the farm creatures, but perhaps they got a bad rap (have you ever seen how they get sheep to “keep on movin”?). Anyway, the sheep were dressed up in some pretty creative attire. There were pirate sheep (not ships), bee sheep (just bee it), hippie sheep (my favorite), space sheep (guess I can’t use the ship joke this time) and even Little House on the Prairie sheep. Of course, there were a ton more, nineteen in all, but rather than list them here, I thought you’d appreciate a list of who won what. So, here goes… MOST ORIGINAL: 3rd place: Kendall Reed – Indian’s 2nd place: Kade Tinner – Smores by the campfire
1st place: Staci Reed – Space cadets MOST FUNNY: 3rd place: Jesse Coleman – Fred Flinstone and Dino 2nd place: Ashley Leonard – Chick-Fil-A Cows 1st place: Marcus Farmer – The protest of “eat berries not sheep” MOST CREATIVE: 3rd place: Kelin Try – S.W.A.T. (Sheep With At Titude) 2nd place: Matthew Farmer – Tribute to Columbia 1st place: Kennedy Dean – The bee and the bee inspector MOST ELEGANT: 3rd place: Erin Peters – Newly wed couple 2nd place: Currie Dickerson – Cinderella and the shoe carrier 1st place: Erin Zimmerman – Diana, Greek goddess of agriculture with her winged horse Pegasus and chariot MOST COLORFUL: 4th place: Deidre Mercer – Farmer and strawberry 3rd place: Nicole Chapman – Captain Mutton and First Mate Jeff 2nd place: Jessie Atchison – Lady and her dragon 1st place: Peyton Love – Hippies
BEST OVERALL: 3rd place: Rebecca Hurley – Gasparilla Pirate 2nd place: Garret Rahn – Caveman and Saber-tooth tiger 1st place: Brittany Coleman – Laura Ingles and her covered wagon Each of the participants in this contest received a ribbon and all placed. The beauty of contests like these that involve children is that everybody wins. The kids did a great job and the crowd seemed well pleased and entert a i n e d . Way to go! You should check this out next year – if only for the laughs.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 23
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[ aroundtown ]
Little Miss Plant City contest raises community awarness story by: KELLI THARRINGTON ktharrington@floydpublications.com
The 36th annual Little Miss Plant City was a perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day. The contest that promotes community involvement paired perfectly with the holiday to enhance the experience of meeting new friends and having fun. Over 30 girls participated in the contest. After the 10 semi finalists were chosen the girls had to answer a question about whom they admired the most and why. But something different happened this year. There were 11 semi finalists. There was a tie for the last spot, so for the first time in 36 years 11 girls were chosen. The contest is sponsored by the Junior Women’s Club of Plant City to raise money for their annual Shoe Project. “Last year we were able to purchase over 1,000 pairs of shoes,” said Kellie Newsome, Director of the contest. But beyond raising money for the shoe project, the contest is designed to spur self-confidence and pride in the community. “This is not a beauty pageant,” said Kellie. The girls are judged on their speaking ability and stage presence. “We really want them to understand that they will represent the community,” said Kellie. Throughout the year the girls will make several public appearances in which they will proudly wear their sashes and the crown. Among their appearances are the health fair, the art festival, and the Little Miss Lights of Love pageant. While the adults involved have very good reasons for involving their children in the contest, the contestants have a few reasons of their own. “This is my first time and I really like to hear my name being called,” said Chelsea Bowden. Bayli Beach was also excited to be at the contest. “I want to win so that I can be a role model for other kids,” she said. And Sarah Hartley enjoyed the thrill of the experience. “You have to take risks sometimes,” she said. There you have the new little representatives of our community. No doubt they will do Plant City justice. The Queen and court are as follows: Little Miss Plant City- Kadie Cox 1st Maid & Court- Chelsea Bowden, Riley Andreau, Taelor Highland, Jayne Berry FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 24
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[ aroundtown ]
story by: GINNY STEWART gstewart@floydpublications.com
The 69th Annual Strawberry Festival Parade everyone there had a ‘grand’ time! Patrons lined the streets. Whole areas of Plant City were shut down. Plant City and Hillsborough County’s “finest” were everywhere - even shopping inside the festival. There were people outside the festival grounds waiting along side the road as early as 10am, and the parade didn’t even start until 1 pm! Plant City is always eager for the Strawberry Festival and apparently equally as eager for the Strawberry Festival Grand Parade. The parade was led by the Egypt Shrine, carrying the much-loved American flag. Next came the Zephyr Shrine Club and then the Citrus Shrine Club in their red go-carts. A menagerie of circus clowns also hosted by the various Shriner organizations followed them. Apparently, the Shriners love their little go-cart cars, because there were numerous different ones throughout the parade route. They were very entertaining and made me wonder, “Where can I get Jaidyn one of those?” No parade is complete without the police. The Plant City Police Department rode by on their motorcycles, weaving back and forth. Then the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office demonstrated a show of power in their tank as McGruff waved to onlookers. Plant City High’s ROTC marched by as they led the PCHS marching band in. Matt Green is doing a great job directing them. Cars and cars of politicians, judges, attorneys and property appraisers followed PCHS. Everybody was throwing beads and candy. One gentleman saw Jaidyn and purposely threw him a beaded necklace. Jaidyn has now been festival “christened.” Durant’s band also marched in this year’s Grand Parade. They were quite a bit larger than PCHS – I must admit I was little bit dismayed by this, as PCHS is my alma mater. Their ROTC was bigger too. I was looking for a former student in that group, but for whatever reason, she w a s n ’t there – ah well… There were a number of other schools participating in the parade: Bloomingdale High, Brandon High, Chamberlain High, Kathleen Senior, Newsome High, Mulberry High and Mulberry Senior High. I hope I didn’t miss any, but I’ve no doubt that I did. So, I apologize. Ronald McDonald made an appearance too. I found that the McCormick-Deering Farmall’s antique tractors were impressive, albeit a little noisy with the back firing, and kind of smelly too. There were countless other floats and performances: In Living Color Performance Art, Mighty Club of Joy, De’ Javu, Miss Jackie’s Dance Studio, and yes, even FOCUS had a float. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 26
It is so amazing to see just how involved our city (and its surrounding area) gets in this annual event. Everyone seemed to have a good time. We enjoyed it, although we both ended up sun-burned and Jaidyn now has really rosy cheeks. If you’ve never had the opportunity to experience the Strawberry Festival Grand Parade, make sure you check it out next year; it’s something you definitely don’t want to miss.
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Baby Parade 2. 34 Kiah Jackson (F) 3. 47 Jacob Braglin (M) Most Handsome Boy 1. 46 Coley Riley 2. 49 Kirkland Jacob Sputler 3. 4 Jacob Reeves Healthiest 1. 14 Kellie Murrell (F) 2. 15 Madison Washom (F) 3. 16 Megan Flowers (F) Most Beautiful Float 1. 39 Ian Butler (M) 2. 44 Grace Gainer (F) 3. 41 Colton Drawdy (M) 2-YEAR OLDS Most Beautiful Girl 1. 22 Hannah Moisa 2. 8 Crystal Gilmore 3. 7 Alexis Miller Best Personality 1. 10 Camryn Wienenger (F) The 2004 Strawberry Festival Baby Parade 2. 11 Katelyn Yarbrough (F) took place Saturday March 6 in the 3. 21 Bradley Moisa (M) Stadium. The parade was sponsored by the Best Costume Plant City Jr. Women's Club. There were 1. 46 Chelsea Woodard (F) total of 181 contestants and more float 2. 4 Trey Furlong (M) participation than any other year. The 3. 20 Angelic Alex (F) proceeds from this event go to local Most Original Float community projects. My Girlfriend's Place 1. 47 Bailey Lemelin (F) helped out with the registration and local 2. 50 Kirstin Bassinger (F) farmers provided strawberries for the 3. 44 Brantley Hall (M) judges. The baby parade was open to all Most Handsome Boy East Hillsborough County residents. Each 1. 23 Chantz McEver age group was judged in seven categories. 2. 14 Hunter Jimenez Congratulations to all the winners! 3. 1 Ethan McLeod ONE YEAR OLD Healthiest Most Beautiful Girl 1. 9 Kelsea Lehtola (F) 1. 10 Kendall Martin 2. 26 Hannah Manley (F) 2. 8 Ashlyn Steinestel 3. 16 Olivia Eichen (F) 3. 11 Rebecca Nicole Field Most Beautiful Float Best Personality 1. 49 Haley Whitmore (F) 1. 9 Reagan Messick (F) 2. 48 Taylor Whitfield (F) 2. 18 Jonah Spivey (M) 3. 43 Makenzi Deagan (F) 3. 24 Zachary Spivey (M) 3-YEAR OLDS Best Costume Most Beautiful Girl 1. 38 Madison Reinhold (F) 1. 10 Selena Berrios 2. 3 Brady Patisaul (M) 2. 19 Reagan Tears 3. 35 Savannah Gibson (F) 3. 5 Baylee Samantha Astin Most Original Float Best Personality 1. 33 Alyssa Cerimes (F) 1. 14 Martie Lynn Mahon (F)
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story by: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
2. 22 RJ Robinson (M) 3. 21 Katie Lynn Morgan (F) Best Costume 1. 2 Blane Lane (M) 2. 31 Dalton McMath (M) 3. 46 David Harnage (M) Most Original Float 1. 39 Logan Hicks (M) 2. 38 Rylina Dyal (F) 3. 40 Brandon VanCamp (M) Most Handsome Boy 1. 37 Dylan Smothers 2. 49 Daniel Wall 3. 20 Cole Adams Healthiest 1. 29 Hannah Spivey (F) 2. 48 Kaitlyn Harrell (F) 3. 24 Delaney Wyatt (F) Most Beautiful Float 1. 41 Blake Strickler (M) 2. 47 Savannah Pearl Trapnell (F) 3. 44 Zane Floyd (M) 4-YEAR OLDS Most Beautiful Girl 1. 29 Allison Peterson 2. 6 Haley Riley (F) 3. 21 Brooke Wasz (F) Best Personality 1. 11 Delaney Lawson (F) 2. 9 Kaylyn Talley (F) 3. 4 Joey Carter (M) Best Costume 1. 24 Alaina Carter (F) 2. 19 Elizabeth Bailey (F) 3. 2 Michael Merrill (M) Most Original Float 1. 47 Ellie Shouse (F) 2. 49 Angel Mazariegos (F) Most Handsome Boy 1. 1 Corbin Coleman 2. 20 Kooper Long 3. 17 Jacob Garrison Healthiest 1. 14 Ashlyn Yarbrough (F) 2. 27 Tanner Dearhart (M) 3. 18 Brooke Conyers (F) Most Beautiful Float 1. 48 Jose Rodriguez (M) 2. 50 Makayla Harrell (F)
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VOTE: It’s Your Voice, Use It or Lose it! candidates run for the commission seat story by: KELLI THARRINGTON ktharrington@floydpublications.com
Voting gives you a voice. Whether on a national level or a local level, it is important to get involved. The elections for a new commissioner are being held on April 6th. Focus wanted to talk to the candidates so that the citizens could make an educated decision and vote with confidence. WHY HAVE YOU CHOSEN TO RUN FOR THE COMMISSION SEAT NOW? Rick: I want to help preserve our culture and also help insure our future. My business experience, community involvement and being a 4th generation native of Plant City gives me a perspective and the knowledge to help reach that goal. At the end of the day every parent has a desire for their children to have a better life than their own. Marsha: I have been a commissioner previously and I wanted to take some time off to give others an opportunity. I was able to accomplish a lot, but I do not feel that my job is complete. (Passmore was elected to office in 1992, was re-elected in 1995 and completed her term in 1998) Liesta: I truly felt that the time was right for me to run for office now. My children are of an age that I can devote the time needed to the position. I feel that I can do the best job possible at this time. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE FUTURE GROWTH OF PLANT CITY? IN PARTICULAR, THE PROPOSED INCREASE OF IMPACT FEES AND THE INCREASE ON SEWAGE AND WATER FEES. Rick: I realize that the city has substantial infrastructure needs. Our existing wastewater treatment plant is currently out of compliance with the state, and in need of repair. Our city also continues to grow, and that creates capacity issues that have to be addressed. I believe that we must find the proper balance in raising impact fees, where they can pay for growth, but not prohibit it. Also, monies raised for increases in water and sewer rates must be properly utilized to keep our systems operating at safe and acceptable levels. Due to the magnitude of the proposed increases, I have encouraged our city officials to proceed carefully, and to keep the best long-term solution as their goal. Marsha: The proposed increase in the fees are for reasons such as compliance and regulation. We have to meet certain standards imposed by the state and an infrastructure lasts only about 50 years. We are at the maximum level of service. I just want to be sure that we don’t leave our residents behind. Liesta: When I looked at the increase I saw that half was for compliance and half was for future growth. The current residents are paying too much of that increase. Development costs need to be increased because current residents should not pay for future growth. WHAT ARE THE ISSUES BEING BROUGHT TO YOUR ATTENTION BY THE CITIZENS OF THE CITY? Rick: Flooding, growth, water and wastewater, taxes and our transit system are issues that most of our citizens are concerned about. I would like to see the use of task forces to help tackle some of our issues. Each commissioner would appoint two FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 28
Rick Lott
[ aroundtown ] citizens to a task force. The task force would work with the city staff to research and explore the needs and help find solutions. Our current transit system is a good example. I believe we can find a solution that can offer more service for the dollars we are spending. We have a lot of expertise in this community. I believe people will volunteer their expertise to make Plant City a better place to live. We are all str onger w o r k i n g together than apart. Marsha: The current transit system has been an issue that I have been hearing about. A solution that I would like to consider would be a smaller
Marsha Passmore
bus system of mini-busses, and have the busses go into apartment complexes to give access to those residents that may not be able to reach the bus stop. Liesta: Some areas in our community grow faster than others. I would like to see the money spread equally throughout the community. WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE CHANGED IN THE COMMUNITY? Rick: I would like to create an environment that attracts higher paying jobs, to get the city to work in a proactive manner to win companies to bring in better paying jobs. I would also like to see an overall city check-up conducted to prioritize needs and set up goals to address them.
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profit from the growth need to incur the costs. Hopefully, as a voter you now can form a more informed decision on who you will vote for. Do not forget to get out to the polls on April 6th to cast your vote. It is important to get involved in the community and let your voice be heard. May the best candidate win.
Marsha: I would like to see the city districted. This would section the city so that each section had a representative on the commission and would give the public easier access to us to voice their concerns. I would also like to see the city change from an appointed mayor to an elected mayor. This would give the voice back to the voters. Liesta: I think that the current commission is doing a wonderful job. Development and growth should not come too quickly. The city is the one left with recreational and educational fees and those who will
Liesta Skyes
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 29
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Life After Coronet a report on the closure of one of plant city’s oldest industries story & photo by: KEN LAWRENCE klawrence@floydpublications.com
It has a history in Plant City going back to 1906, but the time has come to turn the page on one of the area’s major industries. Unless you’ve been on the Mars Explorer over the past year, you know that Coronet Industries will shut its doors on March 31st and many people say they’re sad that the company is leaving “under a cloud”. Many families have directly or indirectly benefited from the company that has employed h u n d reds of people over the past 98 years. Age and environmental concerns doomed Coronet Industries, manufacturer of an animal food supplement that has gone through tough times in recent years, with rising raw material costs, natural gas and electricity prices. The present company shareholders, a major Japanese conglomerate, hired a Missouri Chemical Engineer to oversee an ord e r l y shutdown of the facility. David Denner, Coronet
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 30
CEO, in an exclusive interview with FOCUS Magazine, says Coronet is “not walking away from its responsibilities.” “We ’ re not Piney Point or Mulberry”, in reference to the phosphate operation that declared bankruptcy and left Hillsborough County and the State of Florida with a multi-million dollar mess to clean-up. CEO Denner says the hardest part of the job so far, has been to inform the 90 some employees that they would lose their jobs. About t w o - t h i rds of them are members of the Teamsters Union, which has been negotiating a set package with Coronet. Many Plant City Officials echo the CEO’s concern about the workers. Mayor Bill Dodson says, “My heart goes out to the workers and their families”. The Mayor says he believes “the local economic base should provide other jobs in and aro u n d Plant City”. Plant City Chamber of Commerce Executive
D i rector Marion Smith says “I hate to see Coronet leave under a cloud”, but so far she likes what she has seen and heard from David Denner. “In the past, previous owners have been good corporate citizens and were involved regularly in local economic development issues”, she said.
W H AT WILL BE LEFT WITH?
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Mayor Bill Dodson says if Coronet lives up to its promises, “the eastern side of Plant City could be a thriving place to live”. The city is working with the state government in Tallahassee to run municipal water into homes in the area around Coronet, at a cost of some $2 million, which would alleviate a major concern. The mayor, who has met with David Denner on a number of occasions, says the Coronet
[ aroundtown ] CEO “seems to be a well prepared executive in dealing with the plant closure”. “I’m encouraged that Coronet will remediate all environmental concerns, including clearing-up and cleaning-up the almost 1 billion gallons of contaminated water”, says Mayor Dodson. The company says it’s working on a plan of action but is not yet ready to say how the water clean up will be done. It is stored in holding ponds on the company’s pro p e rty. CEO Denner also says that the company will remove all vestiges of the plant, including the smokestacks. “We ’ re working on plans to rehabilitate the site”, he says. From a health standpoint, state, county and city officials and their scientists “have not found anything to be of a significant health impact”, says Mr. Denner. That view is shared by Bob Appleyard, Vice-President of Sunrise Homes, the company proposing to build a 2,600 home development just west of Coronet. That project was put on hold last year when the Coronet issue became a national concern. Sunrise Homes’ Appleyard says he has been “extremely encouraged by the nature of the facts generated (by the many environmental studies) and I’m hopeful that our project will proceed”. As a Realtor, your reporter can assure you that Plant City is in dire need of a housing project like Lakeside Station, the proposed name for the Sunrise Homes plan that would be built on 1,400 acres just east of Park Road. City Officials are convinced that Plant City is about to face a “population explosion” and the Sunrise Homes development could be the first of other housing ventures in and around Plant City. Prominent Plant City auto dealer Rick Lott says the depart u re of Coronet will have “some economic hardship on the community” and he too believes there is enough growth to pick up the lost jobs. Lott says, “It’s a shame that someone near retirement has to start a new career”. He says he’s encouraged that Coronet is going to close its facilities and clean it up to meet state standards, but “I sure hope they don’t leave an eyesore behind”. Coronet CEO David Denner assures everyone that will not be the case. From our meeting with all concerned, there appear to be very strong indications that within the next 2-3 years, Coronet Industries will be just another chapter in the storied history of Plant City and eastern Hillsborough County and the area around the old plant will be bustling with new economic development.
(l-r) Coronet CEO David Denner & External Affairs Dir.-- J. Thomas Stewart
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Sneak Preview at Plant City Strawberry Festival special ed & kindergarten children get their own time at the festival story & photo by: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
Sneak preview is no longer an exclusive term for viewing movies before they come out. The Strawberry Festival had a sneak preview for Hillsborough County kindergarten and special education classes on Wednesday, March 4th. This was a day set aside just for them at the Plant City Strawberry Festival. At 8:30 a.m., before the park normally opens, buses arrived filled with excited children, parents, and teachers. Captain Strawberry and the Strawberry Queen and Court were there to welcome the smiling faces. The park was all theirs as they began their tour with Robinson's Pig Races. Then it was on to the petting zoo, milking a cow, and finally the best part, a big red luscious strawberry dipped in whipped cream and a refreshing glass of Pepsi, provided by St. Clement Catholic Church. Who can resist the strawberries, Yum Yum! It was such a blast to follow the kids around and experience a day from the eyes of a child. What a great day! Vonelle Robinson and Brenda Lauber from the Strawberry Festival office organized the school event. Ms. Robinson said, "This is the only time some of the children get to come to the festival." It is quite a big job that faces these two ladies, contacting schools, obtaining parking passes, and organizing volunteers. They start working on the Preview in June every year. Ms. Robinson also told me that she feels this event is the highlight of the festival. There were approximately 30 volunteers who helped out and enjoyed this day as much as the children did. It was a fun, fun day and everyone involved did a fantastic job. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 31
Renee and her staff treat my home as if it were their own. I just leave and never have a worry about my home when they are taking care of it. Renee has been working with me for over two years. Janet S. Witmer I’d like to extend a special thanks to all our customers, such as Janet Witmer, for the trust and confidence they have put in Fine Touch Cleaning. If you would like to become a member of our “family”, just give us a call. Thanks, Renee
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Metallic Intrigue discount metal mart story & photos by: GINNY STEWART gstewart@floydpublications.com
I never would have known this place was back there, as I am sure you wouldn’t! Mike Floyd introduced me to Steve Waller after having him create some of the metal artwork in the Floyd Publications office. Mike was so overwhelmed by Steve’s talent that he thought everyone should know about it. Now, I must admit, I was a little skeptical, as very few people are talented metal forgers. Honestly though, this man took my breath away. The depth of his talent is something you need to see for yourself. He took me back to his “barn”, which is his house, and allowed me to see the spiral staircase he built therein. Amazing and
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 34
phenomenal can’t hold a flame to that spectacle. Once upstairs, he presented me with a black rose that he had created out of iron, by hand. Here is my interview with Steve Waller, the gentleman who runs Discount Metal Mart, ATFAB (Any Thing for a Buck) & Gator Trailers: FOCUS: When did your father open up Discount Metal Mart? Steve: Well, that opened in 1992. I opened ATFAB in 1997 after retiring from 13 _ years with TECO, where I learned welding and fabrication. FOCUS: What do you guys do here? Steve: We manufacture metal roofing and siding for homeowners and contractors. Sometimes we do duct work for AC units. The fabrication side is for the building industry. Originally I wanted to open up a fab. shop to make parts and pieces. I bought a sheer and a press break, but then I found out that Tampa Bay Steel was a l ready doing that. So, I decided to start making stuff , thus the beginning of ornamental iron. FOCUS: What would you say your field of expertise is? Steve: Basic spiral stairs to grand staircases. We make
custom range hoods, chandeliers and fire place s c reens. We also do simple farm gates to elaborate ones for mansions with scrolls and hand forging. We ’ re working on a $3 million home with big grandfather oaks. We’ve designed the gate so that when it closes you see a 3D steel oak complete with t e x t u red leaves and branches. FOCUS: Why metal? Steve: I’ve always had a flair for art and drafting. I developed the skills working with TECO. I was working with steel there, and so I took that medium and my creativity and put them together. I work with copper, steel and aluminum. Haven’t done bronze, though, because it is more time consuming and the raw material is more expensive. The opportunity to do something with it hasn’t presented itself yet, but I wouldn’t tell a client “No.” FOCUS: What’s your favorite metal to work with and why? Steve: Iron or steel. It’s a little more forgiving. It’s easier to have my co-workers work on iron. The other metals require a lot more skill. Steel is easier to change and adapt and it’s less expensive to fix. E v e ryone that’s building a home is on a budget, (even the New York investment banker I worked with), so steel fits. Most everyone scales down from their original ideas. Steel is probably half the cost of aluminum and copper. Once you contract with an architect though, the metal work is already budgeted in, that’s the ideal scenario. FOCUS: What job are you most proud of?
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Steve: I would have to say the grand staircase we did for the Animal Kingdom hotel. It’s in the main lobby. I worked on it with Jim Lane, who does awesome woodwork. We won third place at the 2002 NOMMA (National Organization of Metals and Misc. Association) Conference for it. It was there that I decided I needed to stop doing as much silhouette work and focus on doing stuff in 3D. That’s when I started on the staircase in my home. The forging, ornamental ironwork is what I love, but the sheet metal roofing and siding are what pay the bills. I have to build the clientele to get my stuff out there. Ornamental iron makes for an interesting workday because every client has a diff e rent vision for their work. The clients don’t want what their neighbors already have. FOCUS: What do you sell the most of? Steve: Ornamental iron. Mostly staircases, but gates run a close second. Some people have a misconception about the price of custom-made gates. They seem to believe that they would have to spend several thousand dollars, when our gates start at $845; but when you add an operator, that’s another $800. If you don’t need the mechanical stuff, these gates are n ’t outrageous. FOCUS: Tell me why you decided to get into ornamental ironwork. Steve: This town is mostly a farming town, and so it seemed a natural fit. I had just sold Jim Lane some roofing material for his shop; he makes beautiful wood stairs (he calls it “furn i t u re you can walk on”). He felt some clients wanted wrought iron in their staircases. So we collaborated on a few and now I subcontract myself out to him. He felt he was losing some of the market and said he could teach me everything I needed to know about building staircases, and he did. FOCUS: Is there anything else you want our readers to know? Steve: We’re not an easy place to find. There is no drive-by attraction. If people don’t know you’re there, they don’t come looking for you. FOCUS: So, Plant City, now you know. Look for Steve and his phenomenal work, right past the old Plant City flea market. I am sure he’ll be waiting for you, and don’t forget to tell him that FOCUS sent you!
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[ aroundtown ]
The Beat Goes On: jana broder - hand drum teacher story by: GINNY STEWART gstewart@floydpublications.com
Have you ever had a day where you just wanted to bang on something? Your students won’t be quiet to save their lives (even in a tornado drill), you’re son refuses to hold his bottle because it’s much more fun to let mommy do it, and you have 5 articles left to write for the magazine you work for. Again I ask, have you ever had one of those days where you just wanted to bang on something? Well, Jana Broder is the woman to teach you how to “bang.” She’s a hand drum teacher who teaches senior citizens the fine art of hand drumming at Plant City’s Senior Center. She believes that drumming is great for stress release and synchronization of thought processes. She uses it as a team-building tool too. Jana began studying African hand drumming in 1998. Her drum of choice is the djembe. She has been contracted by The Hillsborough County Arts Council to bring her drumming knowledge to bay area senior centers. She says that drumming awakens an inner rhythm for seniors and that the results of her drumming classes are astounding. Seniors who take her drumming class report all types of euphoric experiences. These include: warm, tingling hands, memory stimulation and pure, unadulterated enjoyment. Jana also teaches drumming to incarcerated teens. Jana is no stranger to stress. Before teaching her drumming courses and selling nutritional supplements in her store, she was making her way
up the corporate ladder in her dad’s catering company. She brought the company from a quarter of a million dollar yearly profit all the way to 1.2 million! Then one day she looked at her life and declared that she was done, she felt she had no purpose. So, she sold it all and went to live in California. While there, she learned the art of drumming, the beauty of natural health and how to sail. She was happy, and she wanted to share that happiness with others. So, she moved to Brandon, opened up the Comfort Shoppe and began teaching hand drumming to seniors and troubled teens. Everyone is welcome to attend her classes; they are g e a red for all ages and experience levels. She teaches on Wednesday at 11 am at the Plant
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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 36
City Senior Center, and can be found in Lakeland, Tampa and Brandon on the other days of the week. You are welcome to stop by and see the effect she is having on her students. Check out her website for more information and class times: http://www.drummagic.net Don’t forget to tell her FOCUS sent you!
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A Moving portrayal of our Lord’s last days on easth, and a celebrations of His reign as Savior and Lord, presented over three Sunday mornings as a part of worship
Presented in Three Parts on Three Consecutive Sundays in the Worship Center located at 503 North Palmer Street in Downtown Plant City. 10:30 A.M. - March 28th “Triumphant Entry, Miracles And Lord’s Last Supper” For more information call 752-4104. Tickets available for April 10th and 11th
10: A.M. - April 4th “Arrest, Trial, and Crucifixtion” Saturday and Sunday April 10 & 11, 7:00 and 6:30 P.M. “The Plant city Passion Play” the Complete Presentation
Special messages from our Pastor following each Segment.
First Baptist Church
503 North Palmer St., Plant City
LOCAL
[ aroundtown ]
story by: GINNY STEWART photos by: SUMMER ANDERSON gstewart@floydpublications.com
The 3rd Annual Walden Lake Classic running for the YMCA Running has never been my forte. I had to run in college to play on the soccer team, and as long as there was a ball to block, or someone to chase after, I was fine. But, on the days where we just had to run around a track, I found myself lacking enthusiasm. So, I must admit that I never understood anyone’s passion for running, but I am fully capable of supporting that endeavor if that’s what he or she wants to do. With that said, the YMCA held the 3rd annual Walden Lake Classic on February 21, 2004. The run was a fundraiser for the YMCA’s annual giving campaign; a program that gives scholarships to needy families so that they can enjoy all the Y has to offer without having to struggle to afford it. Each runner donated $12 (if they paid in advance) or $15 (if they paid on the day of the race). The race was a 5K Run/Walk, and started/ended in the YMCA parking lot, after taking a scenic run through Walden Lake. As I said previously, I have never been big on running and races of that nature, so I learned something that day – 5K does not mean 5 miles, it’s really only 3.1 miles or something close to that. I guess I always assumed that the K really didn’t mean anything – ah well, I am not as smart as I
thought I was, I suppose (but how many of you are going – wow, I didn’t know that either?). There were not a lot of spectators, some proud family members, but that was about it. The first person to cross the finish line was a sixteen-year-old boy from Brandon High School. He did the 5K in 18 minutes and 24 seconds. His name was Jeremy Lautzenheiser. I asked him why he was doing the run and he told me that he was on the cross-country team and his coach told him that to train for the track team he should go out and do Saturday races. He seemed like a nice kid, and he was obviously in great shape, as he beat much more seasoned runners. The first woman to cross the finish line was a surprise to me. Her name is Kim Gerlich and she teaches at Turkey Creek Middle School. I knew she was a runner (having taught with her) but I didn’t expect to see her there. She was ecstatic about being the first woman; this was her first experience with a first place medal. Kim’s a great lady, she works with kids with disabilities, and she does charity runs. Her dad was also in the race. Kindness must run in the family (excuse the pun). There were about 70 participants in the race and while
I intended to name everyone who placed (they were all separated by age categories), I had a bit of an accident. You see, I drive a Jeep Wrangler, and one day at work, I left the back window off, not knowing that it was going to rain…Anyway, everything in the back of the Jeep got wet, including of course, the note pad that I wrote everyone’s names on, so I apologize. But I will tell you, that there were three people 70+ who ran the race, and they are: Ruth Clark (48:15), Roger Boris (40:30) and Gordon Clark (48:46). I just hope that when I reach 70+, that I am able to plow on like these dedicated young folks did! T h e re was also a children’s run, but it was more like a children’s chase. The kids looked liked they were having a good time, and hey, it was all for a good cause, right?
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(813) 927-1288 • Fax:(813) 707-0449 1204 N. Frontage Rd. • Just West of Park Rd in Plant City FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 38
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 39
The Ramada Inn Plantation House A Renaissance in Elegance
Renovation has involved extensive changes in the Ramada
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 42
[ featurestory ]
LOCAL
story by: KELLI THARRINGTON ktharrington@floydpublications.com
A
s you enter the lobby of the newly renovated Ramada Inn, you will be whisked away to a time when Mint Juleps were the drink of the day, and chivalry wasn’t dead. You can almost hear the whispers of Rhett to Scarlett when he told her that he didn’t give a... well if you haven’ t seen the movie, maybe now is the time.
The Madonia family has been in Plant City for over 25 years. When they saw the condition that the Ramada was in they decided to take action. They saw promise in the 9-acre property. “Here was this property on I-4 that was at the head of the historic district that we felt could be representative of Plant City,” said Evelyn Madonia. “We wanted to provide Plant City residents with a place to go for a nice dinner and dancing without having to drive to Tampa,” she said. So the multi-million dollar renovation began. They chose the plantation house theme because, “we wanted to celebrate the heritage of Plant City,” said Evelyn. Mahogany shutters adorn the back walls while Victorian elegance is perpetuated throughout the lobby and dining rooms. Huge flower arrangements adorn the golden rococo tables and large mirrors are dispersed throughout. But what is truly magnificent is the work that has been done to the once ordinary hotel rooms, now called Polo Club Rooms and Suites. The suites are truly breathtaking. When I went to visit, the Executive Housekeeper, Becky Bradley, escorted me around the suites. She proudly showed me around the rooms that she so obviously cared for. Before each photo, she had to straighten the bedspreads and fluff the pillows. “When rooms are as beautiful as these, it makes them so much fun to take care of,” she said. There are over 20 suites in the works, and each one is decorated with exquisite taste. Rosemary Madonia, daughter of the owners, has gone to great lengths to see that the hotel’s guests receive the best of hospitality. “We want them to feel at home,” she said. Rosemary, the decorator of the Polo Club Rooms and Suites, chose Ralph Lauren wallpaper and matching bed linens to adorn the rooms, while the vanities are stocked with toiletries from Lady Primrose. “ We wanted to make a dramatic change in this hotel to bring it back to its former glory,” said Rosemary. She even goes so far as sending out the linens to the drycleaners, each time they are used. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 43
LOCAL
[ featurestory ]
I was able to visit the Jeanne Pruett Saratoga Suite, the Bridal Suite, and the Jett Williams Polo Club Room, and the soon to be completed Presidential Suite, on my visit. And, I must tell you, that each one was even more beautiful than the next. The Jeanne Pruett Saratoga Suite has been home to many of the entertainers that pass through. One in particular was Doug Stone. “I felt right at home; it was very comfortable,” said Doug. The rooms are decorated in a soft gray and white, with leather accents. You feel as if you are in the stables of the finest horses in the country, about to watch them race for the Triple Crown. As you enter the Bridal Suite, heavenly blue and white Farrow and Ball wall covering imported from England surrounds you. The beautiful white, washed with silver, king size bed and furniture are elegant, and the draperies and duvet cover are all done in bridal white, and are accented with pearls. The sitting room is accented with off white furniture, contrasting with the pale blue carpet. The sofa is white damask accompanied by matching slipper chairs. The Jett Williams Polo Club Room is named after the daughter of the famous country star, Hank Williams. The room has been transformed into a floral fantasy. Red floral wallpaper covers the walls. Rich dark, mahogany furniture accents the cozy feel and the hunter green carpet completes the look that is reminiscent of the English countryside.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 44
[ featurestory ]
LOCAL
The Presidential Suite is truly regal and befitting of American Royalty. There are five adjoining rooms, which house two bedrooms, a meeting room, a dining room and a sitting room. They are decorated in American Blue and Red, to accentuate the patriotic theme. When this suite is complete, it will be a perfect place to stay while on business. The best part to me was that each room has its own bathroom! Now, that is luxury! All of the baths and the vanities are covered with the finest marble, and each of the suites has a sitting room that is a perfect complement to the bedrooms. But in keeping with her keen attention to detail, Rosemary did not hire just any handy man to install the marble. The company that did the marble work sent in marble layers from Italy. In addition to the suites, the Ramada Inn also has 155 standard rooms, all at customary rates, which, when combined with the excellent location, make it very easy for out of town guests or business associates to book their stay here. The details of the renovation have gone as far as raising the height of the ceilings in the lobby and dining room. Most areas were raised anywhere from 6 inches to 1 foot. The lobby restrooms have been completely upgraded and include full handicap accessibility. Most noticeable are the marble walls and vanities, with beautiful gold accents. You will find real beige cloths, not paper towels, rolled up in baskets to dry your hands on! The wonderful smell from the potpourri when you walk in really takes you away. With all of the attention given to the dining room and guest rooms, lets not forget the heart of the hotel… the kitchen. Yes folks, this is where the magic happens. If you have ever eaten in the Red Rose Dining Room, then you know what I mean. The food is phenomenal. And according to Chef Jason, the state of the art, stainless steel Vulcan Hart kitchen certainly plays a part in the quality of the food. “Every chef dreams of working in a kitchen like this,” said the Chef. “I am very happy to be a part of bringing the Ramada back to life.” And on China imported from England, the food tastes even better. Add to that the fact that it is eaten in a dining room with a star-lit ceiling that has a “shooting star” going across it every five minutes! Or you could relax in their Polo Club Lounge, enjoying drink specials, and Free Time, a jazz band, every Tuesday and Wednesday night, or Destiny, the Plantation House duo, who plays music for your dining and dancing pleasure every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Also featured in the Red Rose Dining Room is a Southern Style buffet every Monday through Friday for just $9.99. After a little rest and a wonderful dinner there is the entertainment that is provided in the Red Rose Dining Room and the Plantation House. “We want to bring in top notch entertainment,” said Rosemary, also the Entertainment Director. What we enjoy the most is watching the videos of the weekend entertainers. “All of the guests are happy, smiling, and having a good time,” Evelyn said. “That’s what we want to bring back to Plant City.” When they are expecting a larger crowd than normal for an entertainer, they open part of the wonderful convention center they have that can seat up to 500 people! They are truly a full service hotel. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 45
LOCAL
[ featurestory ]
And the next time you are in the Plantation House, take note of the green velvet draperies that adorn the back walls. Again, if you have never watched Gone With the Wind, maybe now is the time. When you get a chance, stop in for lunch, take a stroll around the property, or enjoy the entertainment. Now, in Plant City, is a little taste of the Old South.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 46
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 48
FOCUS: Where did you two grow up? EVELYN and B AT I S TA, SR: We are fro m Pennsylvania, just outside Pittsburg h . B AT I S TA SR: I am originally from Buffalo, New York and moved to Erie when I was very young. EVELYN: I grew up in a small, quaint, Victorian town, and I think that is where I gained my love of the Victorian era and its décor. FOCUS: What was your childhood like? EVELYN: We had very happy childhoods. Our parents were pretty strict, though, but their love was evident. They had a strong work ethic and we learned a lot from them. FOCUS: What did your parents do? EVELYN: My father was a Vice President of U.S. Steele. Pittsburgh was a huge steel-producing city, which produced most of the steel for the entire United States. B AT I S TA SR: My parents had a very successful Import/Export business, and I worked in the family business growing up. FOCUS: Evelyn, did you work at your father’s company? EVELYN: I worked at clothing stores in Franklin, Pennsylvania. I also found the time to compete for and win the title of Miss Allegheny Va l l e y. It was such a fun time. FOCUS: Tell me about school. EVELYN: I graduated from Franklin High School and Mercyhurst College. B AT I S TA SR: I graduated from Strong Vincent High School and Gannon College. B AT I S TA SR: I played football in high school and on into college. FOCUS: How did you meet? EVELYN: On Friday nights we went to college mixers, and that is where we met. We pretty much knew at first sight. We met, and a year and a half later we were married. FOCUS: What did you two study in school? EVELYN: I have a Bachelor of Arts degree, with a major in English, and a minor in French. Batista, has a degree in Business Administration. FOCUS: How did you use that in the real world? EVELYN: I was a teacher. I taught English, French, and Latin. I really enjoyed teaching English literature. Shakespeare was my favorite; he re a l l y had a grasp on life, at a very young age. Batista, worked in the family business. His degree allowed him to take on more responsibility, and he was instrumental in its expansion..
FOCUS: Isn’t it true, Batista, that you almost decided to take another route? B AT I S TA, SR: I actually decided to go to medical school to become a D.O., which is a doctor of Osteopathy. I just didn’t want to be away from Evelyn any more than I had to, so I re t u rned from medical school in Kirksville, Missouri, to finish my education in Business. FOCUS: Soon after you were married, you and Batista, sr. had to make several business trips to Florida for the family import / e x p o rt business. What did that mean for your family? EVELYN: That meant a lot of Christmases in Florida, but we loved it. It was definitely diff e rent than the snow and cold of Pennsylvania, but it was beautiful there, too. We had the best of both worlds. But we also got a taste of a different culture and eventually decided to move our family to Florida. FOCUS: How many children moved to Florida with you? EVELYN: We have four children-Stephen, Laurie, Rosemary, and Batista III. They all chose to move to Florida with us. FOCUS: How did they react to the news that they were moving? B AT I S TA, SR.: They were not very happy at first, about leaving all of their friends; however, they made new friends when they got down here, and got involved in sports and other activities, and they have never re g retted moving to Florida. FOCUS: You didn’t land in Plant City at first, though. Lakeland was the first stop. EVELYN: Yes. We chose Lakeland because that was where the kids were going to high school and college, and we wanted them to be close to school and home. FOCUS: But you have been in Plant City for 25 years now. How do you like it? EVELYN: It is a beautiful town and we absolutely love it. This town has given us an opportunity to fulfill a dream to own and operate a hotel. Not one that is stuffy, or one that would make you feel like you had to own a Fortune 500 company to be a guest. We just wanted to have a place where everyone could gather with their friends, and know that they will be taken care of. We want everyone to feel welcome. We want to be givers. And if you have met Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. then you know, you willnever be a stranger to them. They truly want to spread hospitality to theentire city and to give back to the community. Just another testament ofhow small town values capture the hearts of visitors and make them re s i d e n t s . FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 53
LOCAL
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Plant City photo Archives, Inc FOCUS MAGAZINE, MARCH 15, 2004
Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., has been honored many times by area residents who have stopped in to tell us their stories and share their wonderful photos with us. Here are two that we felt you would certainly enjoy. The earlier of the two is the photo brought in by Mr. Morris Tew. This 1930 photograph of Miss Holloway’s class at Cork Academy, known to most of us now as Cork Elementary School, was presented by Mr. Tew, who added these comments. Mr. Tew told us that a number of the children shown in the photograph are still alive and well, and many now have children, and grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. Mr. Tew said he just wanted them to see and enjoy this part of their past The second photo was supplied by Mr. David E. Bailey, Jr., who told us many stories of his multi-dimensional past. In this particular photo, which included some of the leading citizens of the time, D. E. managed to get the adult Sunday school class that he was teaching, to line up on the front steps of the old First Baptist Church on the corner of Collins Street and Baker Street. (It is currently renamed the Cornerstone Center). This photo, taken in the late 1940s or early 1950s, includes the following: 1st row, l to r, Sim Sparkman, Clair “Red” Harrell, A. J. “Jack” Davis, Elton Johnson, Bill Strednak (Elton Johnson’s brother-in-law), and Albert Fletcher. 2nd row, l to r, Victor Smith, J. B. Crider, Marcus Waller, “Mutt” Willis, and Aaron Campbell. 3rd row, l to r, Clyde Kirkland, Joe White, Newell Carter (the Church Minister of Education), Dallas Jeffcoat, David E. Bailey, Jr., Rick Linder, Leroy Williams, Frank Moore, J. D. Kirkland, and Frank Burney. These historic photos, and many others like it, have been added to the Archives’ collection and are available to the public.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 56
At DOUGLAS W. GRANGER, CPA, PA our goal is to help you achieve your goal! Make an appointment for your FREE consultation in any of these areas: • On-Site Business Consulting • Mthly/Qrtrly Bookkeeping • Payroll Service • Sales Tax Preparation • Income Tax Preparation
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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 57
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 58
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 59
[ it here. It's big enough to spread out and is just off from the kitchen where a snack of homemade cookies is waiting to be eaten. Throughout this home you will find many designer touches, such as rounded wall corners, towering coff e red ceilings, plant shelves in every room, crown moldings, ceramic tiles in all traffic areas and, in addition, neutral colors throughout the house, give
featurehome
]
HOME GUIDE
the buyer many options for decorating. A 3-car garage, which features a 6x20 air-conditioned storage room, is icing on the cake. For more information on a home you never have to take a vacation from, call Barbara Jean Kulyk a t 781-1915. She will be more than happy to show you your future new home.
Barbara Jean Kulyk teo.kulyk@verizon.net Office: (813) 752.2087 Fax: (813) 752.7720 Toll Free: 800.735.2089
Cell:(813) 781.1915
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 77
HOME GUIDE
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Real Estate Tax: avoid paying capita gains tax Suppose you own investment property in which you have accrued $100,000 equity from appreciation in market value and gradual pay-down of your mortgage balance. You would like to use that $100,000 to acquire more investment properties. However, if you sell, you will owe capital gains tax. Sound like a dilemma? Wouldn’t it be nice to use this money to acquire more investment property? You can, it's called a tax-deferred exchange, authorized by Internal Revenue Code 1031. Otherwise, called a 1031 exchange. To qualify for a tax-deferred exchange, a real estate investor must trade "equal or up" in both price and equity for one or more qualifying "like kind" properties without taking out any taxable "boot," such as cash or net mortgage relief. But "like kind" property does not mean "same kind." To clarify, you can trade a rental house for an apartment building, or a warehouse can be traded for an office building. You can even trade your vacant investment land for a shopping center. As long as it is REAL ESTATE, it is considered “like kind”. However, your personal residence cannot qualify. Here is the big question: WHY TRADE INSTEAD OF SELLING?
Since 1921, Internal Revenue Code 1031 has encouraged investment and business pro p e rty owners to trade their properties to avoid paying capital gains tax. Tax wise, a qualified tax-deferred exchange is viewed as one continuous investment. This all sounds easy enough, right? Well here’s a history lesson which may make things easier, because in the real world it is hard to match up 3 parties at the same time. In 1979, T.J. Starker won his famous U.S. Court of Appeal decision (602 Fed.2d 1341), which approved "delayed" tax-deferred exchanges. Starker sold his Oregon timberland to CrownZellerbach Corp., which then held his sales proceeds until he located suitable replacement property to purchase with that money. However, upon audit, the IRS argued that was a taxable sale. Starker paid the disputed tax and then sued for a refund. Fortunately for investors, Starker won. The result is Internal Revenue Code 1031(a)(3), which authorizes indirect delayed tax-deferre d exchanges. Starker exchanges have now become the most popular type of tax-deferred exchange. To qualify for a Starker delayed tax-deferred exchange, the sales proceeds for the investment or business property must be held in trust beyond the trader's " c o n s t ructive receipt" by a qualified third-party
story by: MAC MCGRATH
intermediary (i.e. Title Company). Most title insurance and bank trust departments can now handle Starker exchanges. After the sale of the old investment property, the trader has 45 days to designate the qualifying replacement property to be purchased with the sales proceeds. IRS regulations permit up to three possible property acquisitions to be named. The up-trader then has 180 days from the sale date to complete the acquisition. In 2000, the IRS issued Revenue Procedure 200037, which approved "reverse exchanges." The result is a qualifying replacement property can now be acquired before the old exchange property is sold. A reverse exchange overcomes the short 45-day replacement pro p e rty designation time limit by permitting acquisition of the replacement property before the old property is sold. However, title to the reverse exchange replacement property must be taken in the name of the thirdparty intermediary until the up-trader's old investment or business property is sold. Think you can handle all of this on your own? This is another reason to enlist a qualified Realtor in your dealings with real estate. A qualified Realtor can answer these and many more questions.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 79
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 80
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 81
[ linesof communications ] Communicating Today your always-on connection story by: YVONNE FRY
When choosing a PDA to purchase, you should consider the following characteristics and uses prior to purc h a s e . It’s recommended that users make a list of the uses for their PDA and consider the following characteristics:
lines of communications finance business profile
Size/Weight - Does the PDA fit in your pocket? Is it p o rtable enough? Is it light enough that you will carry it with you when you need it? Is the system too large to carry with you? Input Methods - Does the PDA have a keyboard? Do you want to use handwriting recognition for input? Does the PDA have a touch screen, glidepad or a trackpoint for mouse functions? Does the PDA support an external mouse? Features - Do you need a CompactFlash, PC Card or SD slot? Do you need a modem - if you do, then what speed? Do you need a camera card? Do you want to have a keyboard? Will an external keyboard meet your needs? Is the keyboard large enough for you to touch type? Is the unit fast enough to meet your needs? Do you have enough ram for running programs and storage? Will a flash card suffice for additional storage or is the PC Card slot occupied? What kind of connectivity do you need - Ethernet, IrDA, RAS, wireless LAN, wireless nationwide? How long do you need to run on batteries? Uses - Will you be entering in lots of data? If so, is a k e y b o a rd important? How important is a large screen? How many colors does the screen need to support - 256 colors, 65536 colors? Are you going to be editing pictures? Is printing important? Applications - Do you need Pocket Wo rd, Pocket Excel, Pocket Access or Pocket PowerPoint? If so, then consider the H/PC Pros since the P/PCs do not o ffer these capabilities. Do you need to run a special application? Once you have an idea of the size/weight, input methods, features, uses and applications then prioritize them based on your personal usage patterns and tastes. Then you are ready to compare your input with the d i ff e rent devices that are available. Models and pricing a re continuously changing, so be sure to do your re s e a rch on what’s available now and new model release dates. Yvonne M. Fry is president and lead consultant of Lines of Communication, a communications-consulting firm with customers and consultants throughout the U.S., specializing in local, long distance, Internet, data and conferencing. She may be reached at yfry@onepointofcontact.com or 813-319-9100.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 82
BUSINESS & FINANCE
[ financialfocus ]
Take Steps to Prevent Identity Theft SUBMITTED
BY
MICHAEL C AMERON
If you lose your cell phone, it's an inconvenience. If you lose your keys, it's a problem. But if you lose your identity, it can be a disaster. And, over the past five years, one in eight adults suffered some type of identity loss, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Victims of identity theft may have their credit cards used illegally, or they may have credit information stolen and used to make costly purchases. In 2002, identity theft cost U.S. businesses and consumers about $50 billion. Identity thieves act in a variety of ways, from stealing your mail (especially those "pre-approved'' credit card offers) to calling a credit bureau and, under the pretense of being a landlord or prospective employer, asking for your credit information. And, of course, computersmart thieves can get your private information from the Internet. How can you protect yourself from identity theft? Here are a few tips: · Don't share your Social Security number - Unless it's truly necessary, as when you're filing official papers, don't give out your Social Security number to anyone. Smart crooks can use your number in a variety of ways - and none of them are good for you.
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· Shred those documents - If you're getting rid of old tax returns, investment statements and bank documents, use a shredder. And, as long as you've got the shredder out, use it on pre-approved credit card offers. · Get your credit re p o rt annually - You can call the three main credit bureaus, Equifax (1-800-685-1111), Experian (1-888-397-3742) and Trans Union (1-800-888-4213) to request a copy of your credit report. Check closely for "surprises'' or unaccounted activity. · Opt out of credit card offers - To get fewer pre-approved credit card offers, call 1-888-5-OPT-OUT and follow the prompts. Be alert. Identity theft has been going on ever since someone learn e d how to forge someone else's signature. Unfortunately, the problem has been exacerbated by our modern age, with its mass mailings, Internet access and impersonal transactions. Still, even with these realities, you shouldn't live in fear of being attacked by identity thieves. First of all, the chances are still good that it will never happen to you. Second, if you follow the suggestions described above, you can further improve your odds. And finally, even if you are victimized, you can almost always straighten matters out, though it will take time and effort. So, be alert, do what you can and live your life. Your real identity is who you are as a person - and no one can take that away from you.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 83
BUSINESS & FINANCE
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At the Root of Plant City: warren tree sales story by: GINNY STEWART photos by: SUMMER ANDERSON gstewart@floydpublications.com
Warren Tree Sales is our business of the month. I had the opportunity to meet with Lynne and Michael Warren and Lynne’s son R.J. We met at their eight-acre property located on North Frontage Road. The pro p e rty was amassed with vegetation, mainly trees, though there was topiary and shrubbery, as well. While there, I got the opportunity to speak with Lynne and Michael. They told me that they have been in business in the Plant City area over 10 years, but that they are new to this location, as of two years ago. They provide services for both wholesale and retail customers. All this started with selling and installing trees. Now they do landscaping, as well. In addition, they provide site management and job coordination for larger companies based out of Miami, and do both residential and commercial work. Their specialties are delivering and installing high quality material at wholesale prices. Not a lot of tree companies sell and install. Warren Tree Sales did much of the large tree work in Plant City, such as: The entrance to the Larson Softball Complex, Courier Field and other projects for Parks and Recreation. Lynne and Michael specialize in large trees, and will move large trees for homeowners, too. The story behind their interest in this field is an entertaining one. Lynne and Michael met in college. Mike was in the service prior to that. His grandfather grew oak trees on a tree farm. So, Mike was selling his grandfather’s trees on the side of the road, in subdivisions, etc. Then Hurricane Andrew hit, so he took trees to Miami. He planted over 5,000 trees in Dade County. For five years he spent every weekend driving down to Miami, taking 20 to 40 trees a trip. He had to dig holes with a jackhammer because the
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ground isn’t as soft down there. The joke is that they think people bought trees just to see him dig the hole. Lynne and Michael sell just about anything you could want. They’ll even ship palms in from California, but will always advise against buying trees that aren’t cold hearty. They’ve got about 4 – 5 acres in trees at their location on North Frontage Road, and another 4 acres in trees at other locations. On their farms they grow Palms, Live Oak, Queen Palms, Bottle Brush Trees, Washingtonian Palms, Pygmy Date Palms, etc. For the more avid tree connoisseur they can also provide $3,000$4,000 centerpiece trees to add to your repertoire. Ultimately, Lynne and Michael just like to work with trees; they don’t really care what kinds, but they’re real big on Live Oak, since that is what they started with. Lynne and Michael have done some tremendous tree work in the Plant City area, but they are most proud of the Ligustrum trees they planted down the interstate. They are short, umbrella shaped trees located at several exits along I-4 in Plant City. Wa rren Tree Sales
planted them about two years ago when they were doing the construction on I-4. The company has done many landscape jobs in Plant City and surrounding communities, including installation of quite a few large specimen Palm trees. In addition, they’ve installed trees in the downtown area where Bike Fest and the car show are held, and the big Palms at the library. Lynne and Michael say they love working with the city. They are proud to be able to watch the trees they planted grow up. “There is instant satisfaction from doing landscaping,” Michael says, “It instantaneously changes the way a yard or an area looks. We love our jobs, wouldn’t trade it for anything. We just love watching things grow, be it dogs, kids or trees. We also want everyone to know that we supervise every job; we don’t just send workers out without supervision.” There you have it, straight from the trees mouth…if you need tree work done, give Lynne and Michael a call at 813-927-1288, and as usual, don’t forget to tell them FOCUS sent you!
GRAND OPENING Undoubtedly the BIGGEST SALE in the Industry Ever!!!
March 18-20th 8am - 5pm Daily
3206 Sydney Rd. Plant City, FL 33566 Factory Reps and Owners on Premises to Answer Questions
Free Giveaways Daily
You Won’t Believe the Prices... Honest
Financing Companies on Hand
DO NOT MISS THIS ONE!
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It Takes a Village & a Community to Achieve Goals tomlin middle school rates an “A” three years in a row story & photo by: KELLI THARRINGTON ktharrington@floydpublications.com
student of the month article
Tomlin Middle School has made some amazing achievements. For the last three years Tomlin has received a grade “A” in recognition of student achievements on the FCAT. Susan Sullivan is the Assistant Principal at Tomlin and took the time to proudly show me around the school. She informed me that the grade the school receives is based on student scores on the FCAT in reading, writing, and math. Based on the grade, the school is provided with extra funding from the state, with guidelines on how it should be used. “We work hard to be sure that FCAT activities are incorporated into the curriculum,” said Mrs. Sullivan. They try to target the lower scoring students with what is called intensive classes. Some students may need intensive math and some, intensive reading and writing. The higher scoring students take a class called Critical Thinking, and they are provided with enrichment activities in all areas. “ We want to provide as much support as possible to our students,” said Mrs. Sullivan. The biggest challenge that teachers and students face at Tomlin is that testing takes place the Monday after the Strawberry Festival ends. All over the school, various FCAT strategies are being taught in different ways. In Mr. McLaughlin’s math class, technology is used to enhance instruction. The students in his class were on task and willing to answer any questions.
“A safe, positive environment is what we try to provide for the students so that they are not afraid to ask questions,” said Lisa Patterson, a sixth grade teacher. “They know that whatever they say will not be looked upon negatively. We want them to explore various ways to solve a problem,” she said. The teachers made it clear that it was not just them that helped to achieve the “A”. The students really had to focus and dedicate themselves to doing their best. “It is important to have a solid bond with your students,” said Sharon Benson, also a sixth grade teacher. “We want them to challenge anything they hear, to think for themselves,” she said.
What was most important to the teachers and to Mrs. Sullivan was how much they appreciated the support of the parents and the community. The sixth grade team took time on the first day of school to contact all of their parents to welcome them and their child to Tomlin. “That set the tone for the whole year,” said Ms. Patterson. “We have received so much support. “We could not do it without the support of the community,” said Mrs. Sullivan. “It is important to us how the community perceives us. We live here and we know that we can be called out on anything we do. That keeps us on our toes as well as the students and helps us to achieve amazing goals.”
Teaching FCAT skills to 6th grade students.
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EDUCATIONS
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story & photos by: KRYSTEENA WAKEFIELD kwakefield@floydpublications.com
You may recognize our student of the month for March from last year’s Strawberry Court. If you attended the pageant, you no doubt remember her amazing stage presence, which many simply said they couldn’t take their eyes off of. Allie Bethea started acting in the sixth grade as a cast member in the production, Babes in Toyland. A senior at Plant City High School, she always knew she wanted to be an actress. In kinderg a rten, when most little girls want to be ballerinas and veterinarians, Allie already knew that her destiny was to be on the stage. Today, Allie is the President of her drama troupe and has performed in eleven plays with the high school. Allie’s favorite play was Into the Woods, in which she played the part of Little Red Riding Hood. Her resume also includes such plays as 70 Girls 70, ‘Lil Abner and House of Frankenstein. Allie has performed three plays with the troupe for competition and has been ranked superior for her skills. In the spring, Allie will go along with her troupe to state competition to perf o rm Reluctant Prophets. To pre p a re for her time in the spotlight, Allie attends Broadway voice lessons and attends drama practice at least ten hours each week. She also takes classical ballet lessons. In school, Allie is a member of the Foreign Language Club, as well as LEO. Believe it or not, her schedule consists of nothing but social studies, and three of her classes are Advanced Placement Courses. Allie plans to be an actress, but knows that one must always have a back up plan. Her Psychology, Philosophy, World Religions, Government, and Economics classes are the beginnings of that plan. She enjoys the idea of social work. After school Allie is a hostess at the four and a half star Red Rose Dining Room, and loves the opportunity the job gives her to meet new and interesting people. Allie recently re t u rned from a trip to New York City. There , she toured Greenwich Village and attended two Broadway shows. Although the trip was a blast, Allie was there on a mission. She was actually staying on campus at New York University so that she could audition for admission into their drama program. Although already admitted into Florida State University’s drama program, she hopes to get her start at NYU, as many esteemed actors have. For her audition, Allie had to perform two monologues and interview with one judge. “It was d i fficult,” she explained, “because I had to perf o rm for one judge.” Allie, like most actors, says that she feeds off of her audience. The more the audience gets into the show, the easier it is for her to stay in character and enjoy herself. “My favorite p a rt of acting is the audience’s reaction. You put so much time and effort into your work and for an audience to join in on what you’ve done makes it all worth while.” Not only does Allie interact with others well on the stage, she does so in the community as well. It isn’t hard to find someone who knows Allie and anyone will tell you what a caring and fun loving young lady she is. Allie Bethea will no doubt go far in any endeavor she undertakes; be it acting, teaching Russian History or lending books at the local library, and we here at Focus wish her well and look forw a rd to the amazing things she is sure to accomplish. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 88
Allie Bethea
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Plant City Lancers 0-11 boys team advance to the next round of region cup story by: SHANNON AGUILAR
highschool march madness health & fitness
February 28-29 was an important weekend for our local competitive soccer club. It was the beginning of Region C Cup play, to determine who would move on to the next round. Nineteen teams started the tournament, but only 8 would move on. The Boys Under 11 team lobbied and successfully received the opportunity to host the event at the city’s soccer facilities at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. This was an excellent fundraising opportunity for the team that required plenty of help from the team’s families, which was much appreciated. The Lancers’ first win this weekend was a 5-1 rout against the Manatee Magic. Jorge Martinez (Forward) was the leading scorer of this game, with 3 goals. AJ Black (Forward) and Raymundo Marquez (Forward) also scored one point each. The next game, against East Lake, was an unfortunate 3-1 loss. AJ Black managed to put one in the back of the net, with the assistance of Jorge Martinez. The boys got up to do it all over again the next day. This one was a 4-0 shutout over FC Tampa. Jorge and Raymundo both put two goals each in for the team, with AJ and
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Raymundo helping out with one assist each. This win sealed the boys’ fate as they move on to the next round, to be held March 20-21 in Zephyrhills. The teams to beat in the next round are Central Pasco, Temple Terrace and Valrico. All the boys on the team played great and we couldn’t have won without each and every one listed here: Chris Black – Head Coach, Alan Black – Asst. Coach, Tony Almon – Asst. Coach, Kendall Aguilar – L Fullback, PJ Almon – Forward, Zack Ceto – R Fullback, Garrett Davidson – Stopper, Rudy Echeverria – Midfield, Dalton Hunter – Midfield, Nick Jones – Fullback/Goalkeeper, Justin Keel – Midfield, Billy Kladakis – Midfield, Damaso Pineda – Sweeper, Tony Rosales – Goalie/Midfield, Israel Santana – Midfield. The U-11 Lancers is only one of the teams from Plant City’s competitive soccer club. Each year, after the city’s recreational season is over, the club holds an open try-out, usually around the first of June. We invite all interested players and their parents to come out and give competitive soccer a try. Look for more information here in FOCUS magazine, as the date approaches.
A Team assignment call-out for the 28th season of the Plant City Recreation & Parks D e p a rtment / Optimist Youth Soccer Program w e re held on Monday, February 23 and Thursday, Febru a ry 26 (Tuesday, Febru a ry 24 call-out was rained out). Over 1250 players are participating this year on 102 teams, ages 4 through 18. This year, for the first time ever, the 8-9 and 10-11 year old age groups will be split, allowing girls to play on all-girls teams. The season starts the week of March 16-20 and continues through late May. For more information, contact Youth Sport s Coordinator Dan Smith at dsmith@plantcitygov.com or phone 813-659-4255.
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SPORTS
Durant: A Powerhouse of Sports cougars are proving to be strong competitors story & photos by: KRYSTEENA WAKEFIELD
On the first night of the season, the Durant Cougars won two away games against the Plant City Raiders in softball and baseball. Durant, in the past two years, has become a giant competitor in the county for athletics. Enough so to win eleven to three in baseball, and six to zero in softball, against their neighboring rival, the Plant City Raiders on the night of Febru a ry 26. Durant's softball team has seen new strength, as they start their season with a win. Missy Hernandez, the Cougar softball head coach said that the key to their success was their ability to be "aggressive at the plate." This held true for the entire game, both offensively and defensively, by scoring six runs, and not allowing the raiders to even touch the home plate once. By having this strong start in the season, Durant has displayed their ability to be
s t rong in any athletics. For the past few years, they have emerged as a strong football, baseball, volleyball, and soccer team. Now it seems they have added softball to their arsenal of competitive sports. Plant City has once been the re p resentative of athletics in the Plant City area, but it seems like Durant is carrying that torch now. They have the talent to compete with the larger schools in the city like never before seen. Durant has been successful in the recent past, but now that their re c o rd has not faltered, they will become the larg e r competitive force in Hillsboro u g h C o u n t y. It is expected that their accomplishments will allow them to be heavy competitors in state competitions for Florida.
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SPORTS
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“It’s Maddening” It’s the month of March, and for many crazed sports fans like myself, it marks the best couple of weeks of the year “vegging” out in front of the television…much to my wife’s and other spouse’s dismay. March means “March Madness,” a time of indeed madness for us college basketball degenerates who live and die on every buzzer beater. Many people in this area may argue that college football is the king of “semi-professional” athletics, but until the NCAA wises up and generates some sort of postseason playoff system, the “Big Dance” remains the best television that sport has to offer. A nice trip to the Humanitarian or Silicon Valley Bowl may fit the bill for a postseason trip for some, but give me a single elimination tournament where all 65 teams who have their dance card punched have an equal shot to cut down the nets. Others may argue that college sports don’t hold a candle to the pros, for that I answer, “Have you seen an NBA game lately…ugggh. Sure, rookie phemoms LeBron James and Carmello Anthony are adding a breath of fresh air to the association, but they still have a way to go to get to the glory days of Magic, Larry and MJ. What about pro football, you may ask? The NFL is indeed exciting…maybe not quite as exciting this
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story by: RHETT ROLLYSON
past season around these parts in comparison to the previous “super” season. However, the artificial cellphone and sharpie celebrations just don’t compare to the natural color and charisma that is college sport. Plus, speaking of artificial…there’s no Janet and Justin to upstage the occasion with a clothing malfunction. There’s something special about knowing every team has an equal chance to be called a champion. Sure, your perennial powerhouses like Duke, Kentucky and Kansas will be in the mix, but so will teams like Utah State, Manhattan, Southern Illinois and Gonzaga. Who you ask…that’s the point; it’s exciting to see the have-nots battling it out in with the haves. Speaking of Gonzaga, I imagine some of my Florida Gator bre t h ren remember the bracket busters from Spokane. I frankly never was a big fan of Cinderella…the Disney movie or the lame 80’s hair band, but there’s something special about watching a Cinderella team sending an overwhelming favorite packing early. For those of you who may be confused with the term “Cinderella,” it refers to the lowly stepsister of the NCAA Tournament who surprisingly finds the glass slipper in the way of a shocking upset. You may remember some of the more memorable Cinderella stories of NCAA To u rnament lore. Who can forget the improbable tournament run of Jim Valvano’s
North Carolina State club in 1983 or Villanova’s miraculous charge two years later. Plant City’s own Horace Broadnax was a major contributor on the heavily favored Georgetown team that fell victim to Villanova in the 1985 Finals. If you never have given the college hoop tourney a chance, now is the time. Over the next couple of weeks, true reality television will unfold throughout a renas across our nation. You may think “Average Joe” is great reality TV, but that bomb and other socalled reality shows prove truly average in comparison to the drama and shining moments of Marc h Madness. If your favorite team is included in the tournament, good luck. If not, find the Cinderella of your choice and jump on their bandwagon (or carriage) and live vicariously through them. Be warned…there’s no cure to the madness once you catch the bug. And it’s not for the weak of heart, for it will definitely give your ticker some extra work. There are some Thursday and Friday afternoon starts early in the tournament, so start thinking of creative ways to fool your boss. I’m starting to feel a little queasy already. Enjoy.
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SPORTS
Eat Strawberries story by: SHERRY NUEESCH
For the last few decades we have been bombarded with advertisements and messages promoting low fat foods. To listen to the so-called experts you would think that fat is not an integral part of the food chain and that it is a mistake that nature distributes fat abundantly throughout the food chain. Recently Channel 8 did a special on the 600 lowcarb foods lining our grocery shelves. The question was posed, “have we gone low-carb crazy”? No we haven’t. The food companies have. It’s a marketing ploy. Back when the low-fat craze started it was the food manufacturer’s who shoved down our unsuspecting throats the hundreds of fake products low in saturated fats. Back a few years ago when there was some indication that soy could help some menopausal women, again the manufacturers jumped on the bandwagon and started producing any product aimed toward women with soy. It’s in our cosmetics, lotions, vitamins, food, oils, blah, blah, blah! So now we have a society that shuns saturated fat and cholesterol, eats huge amounts of low-carb manufactured food and over doses on soy. Yet, are we healthy? Are we thin? No, we are sicker and fatter than ever. Rates of violence are higher than any other country in the world. The childhood suicide rate is higher in America than all other countries combined!!!!! Pretty sobering isn’t it. The sole purpose for eating is to provide the nutrients that the human body needs. God made it fun and pleasurable because like sex, He had to make sure we did it! So if it is nutrients that the human body needs, what happens when we mess with our foods? What happens when we replace real food with manufactured foods? Do you think that perhaps the body and the brain starts to malfunction? C h i l d ren get crazy and adults get violent and depressed and disease prone. Let’s take saturated fat and cholesterol. Human
breast milk is very high in cholesterol and saturated fat. Infant formulas are very low in all short and long chain fatty acids. According to Carol Simontacchi, a highly respected - clinical nutritionist, and author of many respected books, writes “pregnant and nursing moms in China eat twelve eggs a day-just to get the long chain fatty acids for their babies. The Orientals know that eggs, rich in saturated fat, are brain foods. A story has been told about a woman in Japan whose husband died while her son was still young, throwing the family into poverty. To provide her child with just one egg per day, she sold off all her possessions, one by one, so he could be intelligent. Her son went on to college. It may be wise if you want your children to go to college to give them eggs, cod liver oil and butter”!! This is from her book The Crazy Makers; How the Food Industry Is Destroying Our Brains and Harming Our Children. Consider this, before 1920 coronary heart disease was very rare in America. By the mid-fifties heart disease was the leading cause of death in America. Today heart disease causes 40% of all deaths. So we must be eating more saturated fat and cholesterol. Isn’t that what causes heart disease? WRONG!!! During the 60year period from 1920 to 1970, consumption of animal fat fell from 83% to 62% in the American diet. Butter consumption plummeted from 18 pounds per person to 4. During the last 80 years cholesterol has increased only 1%. Let’s see, we are not eating more cholesterol, we have drastically cut saturated fat,
yet we have women dying in record numbers of heart disease. A disease that was rare in 1920 is now the leading cause of death in American women. Back when we fried in lard and used butter, full fat milk, cream, and bacon fat we did not have heart disease. Now that the consumption of vegetable oils in the form of margarine, shortening and refined oils is up 400% and the consumption of sugar and processed foods up 60%, we have heart disease. Food is our medicine. Food is what keeps us alive. Food nourishes us and gives us energy. Food is where we get the nutrients that sustain us and keep us healthy. I define food by what is found natural in nature. I do not consider something cooked up in a laboratory, food. So whom are you going to trust? God who wants only the best for us or a corporation who wants our money? God who is very interested in your health, or a company who is more interested in the health of their bottom line? Just who do you think truly cares and knew what He was doing to start with? Me thinks I will go with God. God has blessed us all with a wonderful palate of wholesome good foods. Choose wisely. Your life depends on it.
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Books: The Latest College Racket
al ruechel johnnie byrd home computing tips auto review travel
You’ve got to hand it to them! Businesses have discovered that college students are easy hits. Go to any college town and you generally find gas prices around campus a nickel higher than most stations in the same town. Refrigerator and furniture rental businesses are booming. Drinks at football games run 5 bucks for 12 ounces, not to mention 4 dollars for a hot dog. There is no such thing as parking, which means the local cops write a zillion tickets. There’s a fee for everything from labs, to dorm keys, to bicycle permits, to overdue books. Laundromats are in high demand. If you own anything that could be used as an apartment, which is defined as anything with a roof and four walls, you’ve got an instant cash cow. Have you seen those new luxury, gated, student apartments complete with workout rooms, swimming pools, and sauna? But the biggest rip-off on college campuses these days continues to be the books. Oh—My— Goodness! Being the father of four, two in college now, one just graduated, and one more to go, I know first hand the book lament. For Freshmen Chemistry One the textbook will set you back $150.00. The lab manual is another $55.00. Specialized books for engineering or medical classes are even higher. The Gross Anatomy book now runs $225.00. It’s gotten so bad that more and more students are opting not to buy the books and fighting it out in the library for the few copies that have a habit of disappearing mid-session. A c c o rding to The Scholarship Workshop Online, textbooks for the 2001-02 school year averaged $850. Just three years later, the cost for the same books will be $1050. That is a huge jump for college students who are so often cash strapped, not to mention the parents who are taking every extra job they can to help ends meet.
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Of course, it only gets worse once you buy the books at full price. You have to hold your jaw in place when the store clerk offers you $35.00 for that $170 American History text. And then, the store turns around and resells your book for $125.00. These are real numbers from two universities in my state of Florida. Students are also slammed thanks to every changing technology. Book publishers used to offer new editions of textbooks about once every seven years. Thanks to computers, which allow publishers to quickly add additional material, the average lifespan of a college textbook has been reduced to 3 years, or less. In other words, if a textbook isn’t sold back to someone within 3 years it’s money down the drain. Don’t get me wrong! Some professors are sympathetic to the plight of students. They should be applauded for their integrity. But I also know that professors are encouraged, no, in some cases, required to generate their own books or booklets that can be used to generate revenue. Can you think of a better way to make money for your school than publishing a textbook? Once you a re in print you have a captive audience year after year after year. I know of one example of a professor who put together a 50-page workbook for an advanced biology class at the university whose mascot lives in The Swamp. It was all black and white on cheap lightweight copy paper. It looked like someone had taken the original and spent an evening at a copy machine that was low on ink. It was held together in a plain blue binder from Office Depot. It also included a poorly produced slide show on a CD. The professor re q u i red each of the 300 students to purchase this substandard document for $100. You do the math. Three
Story By: AL RUECHEL 01-26-04 sessions a year with 300 students in each class equals $90,000 from that one professor alone. A source at the university, who shall go unnamed, says all of the professors are encouraged to put together these kinds of lecture notes or study packs. Regardless of the quality of the printing or the educational value of these required manuals, the professor was told the suggested price should be $100. He also says the cost to produce the booklets is generally under $5.00. I’ve confirmed the same practice at three other state institutions of higher learning. What a crock! Fortunately, there are alternatives for the industrious and those that plan ahead. Too bad most college students don’t fit into that category. You can try advertising in the local school paper, or posting notes in your dorm. One kid I know goes to the first day of the classes and stands outside the door offering to sell his books to students who haven’t bought theirs yet. That’s a lot of work but so far it has paid off. Here’s another solution that seems to be gaining popularity, again if you have the time: the Internet. There are lots of places that offer to sell you new or used books at a huge 50 percent discount or more. One of the best is textbookx.com. Once you get your schedule you enter the ISBN number into the search engine and away you go. Do a Google search for other websites or ask some other students who’ve had success with the Internet. Good luck to you! I still think it stinks that universities don’t actively attempt to hold the prices down on textbooks. But, as it is in the real world, if you don’t look out for yourself there is always someone willing to separate you from your hard earned cash, especially if it’s you’re alma mater.
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EXTRA
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Speaker’s Message: the urgency of the “parental rights amendment” Last summer, the Florida Supreme Court overturned a state law re g a rding the right of parents to know about the conduct of their minor children, ruling that the privacy of the minor outweighed the right of parents. Most Floridians recognized this as a violation of common sense and the traditional relationship between pare n t s and their children. In the weeks following the court decision, the House Committee on Judiciary conducted hearings around the state and the overwhelming call was for restoration of the right of parents to be parents. R e t u rning to Tallahassee, we consulted with staff and constitutional experts who helped us develop a sound, meaningful legislative response. That is why I stood this week with fellow House leaders to outline legislation to strengthen pare n t a l rights in the Florida Constitution.
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Called the “Parental Rights Amendment” (PRA), the proposal (House Joint Resolution
1 5 9) was approved by the House Committee on J u d i c i a ry on Tuesday and will now go to the full House for consideration during the 2004
Legislative Session. If approved by the Legislature, would place a ballot re f e rendum b e f o re Florida voters in the fall. The PRA expressly re c o g n i z e s the fundamental right of parents to raise, educate, and care for their minor c h i l d ren, while at the same time s a f e g u a rding children in cases of neglect, abuse, or criminal w rongdoing. The PRA is designed to strike a reasonable balance between the rights of parents and the interests of the state in the protection and education of children. With this amendment, we not only guarantee parental rights, but also p roclaim the central importance of p a rental rights to Florida’s families. I hope that you will contact your local state legislators and ask them to support the PRA in the 2004 Legislative Session.
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EXTRA
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“Would You Buy Stamps for E-mail?” story by: JIM BROWN
Many of us have received e-mail over the years about these bogus propositions that were being passed in the U.S. Government. Well I’m here to tell you that if Bill Gates gets his way they will no longer be bogus propositions. Bill Gates says, “If the U.S. Postal Service delivered mail for free, our mailboxes would surely runneth over with more credit-card offers, sweepstakes entries, and supermarket fliers. That's why we get so much junk e-mail: It's essentially free to send.” Therefore Mr. Gates, among others, is now suggesting that we start buying "stamps" for email. The concept is for those of us who use e-mail personally or for legitimate business reasons, the cost would be small and wouldn’t hurt our pocket books. However, for the big spammers it would be quite costly and essentially would eliminate spam all together. Many Internet analysts worry, though, that turning e-mail into an economic commodity would undermine its value in democratizing communication and I almost have to agree with that. I don’t like spam anymore than the next guy, but is charging per e-mail the key to solve the problem. I would like to hear what you all think. This is a topic that will definitely be brewing for quite a while, so e-mail me your take on this issue and I may post it in next month’s article. 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.whatsupplantcity.com e-mail:jimb@plantcity.com
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EXTRA story by: GINNY STEWART
gstewart@floydpublications.com
I love my job, especially when it’s time to review cars. I love getting to test out all the new stuff on the market. This month I got to drive the new 2004 Pontiac Aztek. I know what you’re thinking, “it’s kinda ugly.” Well, yeah it is, but so was the Honda Element and that’s a great car. So, let’s just get away from outward appearances – didn’t your parents teach you that – you know, don’t judge a book by its cover? The 2004 Pontiac Aztek really does have some appealing qualities. First of all, it’s great for those of us with some credit issues. Why, you ask? Well, it has AWESOME rebates, and banks love rebates. It’s also great for those of us with families because it’s really ro o m y. I could turn my head to the right and actually see my son’s face with him sitting in his rear facing car seat – I was majorly impressed by that. It was too cute too, because Jaidyn (my son) realized he could see me too, and so every time I turned around I found him staring at me – you gotta love that! The Aztek has some innovative options as well. I guess the one that impressed me most when I opened the car for the first time, is the center console. I know, who cares about a center console, right? Well, this is no ordinary one. In fact, I can honestly say that I have never seen one like it in any other car. Here’s the scoop…it doubles as a removable cooler! That’s right, for those long trips, or camping excursions, your car is already equipped with its own removable cooler! (The Chevy Av a l a n c h e has coolers built into its bed, but you can’t take them with you) The Aztek is also the only vehicle in its class with removable second row seating. Yeah, you can actually take them out and use the back of the car like a truck. They also fold flat, or forw a rd, dependent upon how you need to configure them. In addition, there ’s a rear sliding cargo tray (optional) that holds up to 400lbs and slides out to you! There are pop up compartments, and hidden ones, as well as dividers and cargo nets that come with it. It is definitely ingenious. Mechanically, the engine is a 3400, 3.4L, V6. It has 185 HP and 210lb-ft of torque. In laymen’s terms, it will haul if it needs to. It gets pretty good gas mileage, too, 19 city and 26 hwy. All wheel drive is available and that will get 18 in the city and 24 on the hwy. It rides re a l l y smooth, and there isn’t a lot of road noise on the hwy – which is a nice break from the Jeep Wrangler I drive every other day. If you’re thinking about getting a 2004 Pontiac Aztek, then make sure
you see Tom Park at Lott-Mather. He’s the guy who looks a little like Gene Wilder in Willy Wonka (I told him I was going to compare him to Gene Wilder and he said it was ok, because he likes him). He’s just as nice as Willy Wonka, too, and will definitely treat you right (and there are so few car sales people out there that you can say that about). So, when you go in to get your new Aztek, see Tom, and don’t forget to tell him that FOCUS sent you!
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 99
EXTRA
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A Town That Painted Itself into Fame story & photo by: KEN LAWRENCE
Quickly now. When the name Lake Placid is mentioned, what do you think of immediately? If you said The US Olympic Hockey Team shocking the world by winning the World Hockey Championship at Lake Placid in 1980, you’re probably in the majority. There’s even been a movie out recently about that milestone called “MIRACLE”. Well that’s not what this article is about. It has nothing to do with Lake Placid, New York. Just a short drive southeast of Hillsborough and Polk Counties down Highway 27/98 will take you to the town of Lake Placid, Florida, in Lake County. There you find “The Town of Murals”, a concept started in 1992 that has thrust the community high on the list of Places to Visit in Florida. The community also has another moniker “The Caladium Capital of the World”, where 95% of the world’s colorful leaf plant is grown. Lake Placid was given its name by the Florida Legislature in 1927 after lobbying by Dr. Melvil Dewey, creator of the “Dewey Decimal System”, used throughout the world in such places as libraries and now the Internet. Dewey from Lake Placid, New York spent winters in Lake County and the town’s name was
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 100
lake placid - a virtual work of art
changed from Lake Stearns. Dewey died in 1931 and the town basically served the agriculture industry and was “just there”. Actually, a major employer shut its doors, throwing some 850 people out of work in the late ‘70s. In 1983, a couple from Pennsylvania Bob and Harriet Porter, retired from the pharmaceutical business and began their dream of motorcycling across the US and Canada. Something attracted them to Lake Placid and they eventually settled there. In 1992, they took an idea from a Canadian town in British Columbia, where people painted murals on old buildings in their town of Chemainus. Bob and Harriet formed a non-profit organization “Lake Placid Mural Society” that has become, if you’ll pardon the use of the old expression, “The Talk of the Town”. We’re not writing about some graffiti on walls. This is top-of-the-line artwork, that tells the history of Lake Placid and Lake County. Some of America’s and Canada’s top artists have painted murals in the town and many of them are huge, especially one outside the local Winn-Dixie Supermarket. It depicts the “Cracker Trail Cattle Drive” of years gone-by. To fund their projects, the Mural Society set-up an arts and crafts shop, called Caladium Arts and Crafts, that offers classes to budding artisans and sells their creations. The Porters and many other residents have contributed thousands of their own dollars over the years and other fund raising events are held annually. No tax dollars have ever been used. The first mural was created on the wall of the coop in 1993 by artis t
Thomas Freeman, a p rominent Florida landscape artist. It depicts 3 ladies having afternoon tea in a courtyard. It has been one project after another since 1993, so that there are now 37 murals throughout Lake Placid. There is not one of them that cannot be called a work of art. The creativity, that depicts the local history, is unbelievable. The Caladium Arts and Crafts, local Chamber of Commerce and most businesses sell a program detailing the murals and where they are located. The price is a modest $3. It’s best to walk from one to the other. Town officials tell FOCUS magazine that they estimate at least 50,000 people visited Lake Placid last year to see the Murals. Of course that many people in a town of only 1,600 people can result in quite a bit of trash being left about. The Mural Society came up with another idea on how to deal with the garbage and add an even greater artistic flair to the town. They have had artists create trash bins and those items alone will entertain you on your visit. There’s an old car whose engine starts when you open the lid to drop in your empty soda cup. There’s a trash bin outside the police station that looks like a jail and so on. Folks, while your writer is a died-in-the-wool Plant City Resident and Realtor, I can’t help but encourage you to take a trip to Lake Placid. Leave early, it’s about a 2-hour drive from here and bring the entire family. Take State Road 60 to Bartow. Take US17/98, which meanders towards US27, and turn right. You’ll pass through Sebring and ten miles further south is Lake Placid. ENJOY!
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 101
[ diningreview ] Cupid’s Arrow Will Strike Your Taste Buds: Love’s B-B-Q
dining review just for fun on the town downtown guide movie reviews coupons event calendar
story by: GINNY STEWART photos by: SUMMER ANDERSON gstewart@floydpublications.com
I don’t eat red meat, and I never eat meat on the bone. I find the idea repulsive and somewhat barbaric. However, last night I had the most amazing dinner (and yes, the meat was on the bone)! My roommate, Summer and I had the opportunity to review Love’s B-B-Q. Up until last night, I always went to Woody’s to fill my barbeque cravings. No more! Love’s B-B-Q is the real thing, real pit barbeque. James Love, the owner, opened his little hole in the wall on January 17th of this year. He had promised himself that he’d have his own restaurant at 55 after having spent the last 20 years cooking for church events and community fundraisers. And believe me, we’re so glad he did! He served us up a healthy helping of ribs, potato salad, baked beans and a soft roll. He makes his own specially seasoned barbeque
sauce and cooks the meat to tender, savory perfection. The meat pulled off the bone with ease (Summer removed the meat for me) and it was not a skimpy amount – we left with full stomachs. I wish I could describe to you just how phenomenal the ribs were, but honestly, there are no word s . Unfortunately, we didn’t get to taste the other meats he pre p a res, but I feel extremely confident that they are comparably delicious. Mr. Love also served us cake. We tried the chocolate and pina colada cakes. Summer enjoyed the chocolate cake so much that she didn’t even share. I however, did allow her the extreme luxury of trying my pina colada slice. Let me tell you, when you see the cake slices, the first thing you think is, “man, that looks moist,” and then your taste buds confirm just how moist it is! For those of you who are unaware as to the location of Love’s B-B-Q, it’s at the center
of the “V” of Reynolds and Thonotosassa, right across from the Nu-Way Cleaners. No, it’s not a prime location, but what it lacks in ambiance, it makes up for in taste! Mr. Love wanted me to let you know that his mother makes the homemade sweet potato pie he s e rves. I didn’t try it (not a big fan of sweet potatoes), but if his mother is the one who taught him to cook, I assure you you’re tongue is in good hands. With Plant City’s track re c o rd in re f e re n c e to new restaurants, it’s super important that you check Love’s B-B-Q out. This is a restaurant we’ll definitely want to keep aro u n d ! So, treat your stomach to an awesome meal and make sure to let Mr. Love know that FOCUS sent you! Love’s B-B-Q is open Mon.Sat. from 11am to 9pm. The phone number (in case you want to call ahead and pick up dinner) is 719 2045.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 103
DINE & ENT
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justforfun
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Submitted By Al Cohen
SAG E A DV I C E The more Things Change The More They Stay
A WORD TO THE WISE ADD A NEW WORD TO YOUR VOCABULARY EASCH ISSUE
DEMEANOR Beahaivior Towards Others Outward Manner
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 105
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The Twinkle in Plant City’s Eye southern style bluegrass story & photo by: GINNY STEWART gstewart@floydpublications.com
My first experience with bluegrass music was at the Florida Opry in the 1914 Building. It was an entertaining cross between foot-stompin’ country and melodic hymns. I enjoyed some of it. Now, I have had the opportunity to meet more people involved in bluegrass music. Allow me to introduce you to, Southern Star Bluegrass. Southern Star Bluegrass started in 1977 (a year after I was born). Dan Smith and Rick Hinson started this band. Dan and Rick have known each other since they were kids. There are other members in the band and they are: Larry Jackson Jr., Royce “Bud” Burt and Red Johnson. All the members, save one, live in Plant City. Southern Star is no stranger to public appearances. In fact, they appeared on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, twice! They have also been named Florida Bluegrass Band champions on two
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different occasions. Dan Smith tells me that he was first exposed to bluegrass music through his grandfather. He used to listen to the Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs Show in the early 60’s. Dan says he’s been hooked ever since. His love of bluegrass music and his friendship with Rick Hinson led them to create Southern Star Bluegrass. Each member of their band has a specific job. These jobs are crucial to making the band sound the way Dan and Rick dreamed it should. Dan plays mandolin and guitar. He also sings baritone with the group. Rick plays bass and sings tenor and lead. Red was a former fiddler for the late Hank Williams Sr., and is a charter member of the Florida CMA Country Music Hall of Fame. Royce Burt is their super banjo player. And finally, Larry Jackson Jr. has been the guitar player for Southern Star
Bluegrass for the past 16 years. Southern Star has recently completed their 10th year entertaining at the Florida State Fair's "CRACKER COUNTRY", and their 14th year with the Florida Strawberry Festival. They have also appeared at the Blueberry Festival in Ocala, Florida and the Manatee County Fair in Palmetto, Florida. Southern Star Bluegrass currently has 4 CD’s out. The latest is a “live” album that they recorded at the 1914 Building in good ole PC. They say they are thankful for the support that Plant City has shown them. They also say they are proud to put on a show that is suitable for the whole family. You can learn more about them on their website http://www.southernstarbluegrass.com. You can get their CD’s there, too! Check it out!
DINE & ENT
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DINE & ENT
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moviereviews
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By: SHERRI ROBINSON srobinson@floydpublications.com
Welcome to Mooseport - PG-13 Starring: Gene Hackman, Ray Ramano, Marcia Gay Harden, Maura Terney, Christine Baranski, Fred Savage One would get the impression that this movie is all about politics. Yes and No. Although politics did rear its head through most of the movie, it really wasn't about that. It was about morality and love.... mostly love. Ray Ramano is one of my favorite TV husbands. He speaks "guy" better than anyone I know. That being said, I think this is a great guy movie. There is no action to speak of, and it does deal with the "L" word (for the women), but it has tools and golf. Mooseport was very fun and entertaining. Rating 3
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 110
Miracle - PG Starring: Kurt Russell, Patricia Clarkson, Noah Emmerich, Sean McCann, Kenneth Welsh, Eddie Cahill In 1980 the United States entered the Winter Olympics with a hockey team that everyone had doubts about. Time was short and mixing guys who had never played together before was a big risk, but one man, coach Herb Bro o k e , (Russell), had vision and determination that turned this team into a family. The US ultimately won against an unbeatable Soviet Squad. The focus of Miracle was not the outcome of winning the Olympics; it was about believing in a dream and spreading that dream to others to inspire them to achieve the impossible. Miracle is a movie for everyone, not just hockey fans. I came away with a greater belief that I can achieve anything I dream about, no matter the odds. Rating 4
You Got Served - PG-13 Starring: Omari Grandberry, Marques Houston, Jerrell Houston, Meagan Good, Steve Harvey Wo w...how amazing was this movie. You Got Served was filled with moves I never imagined was possible for the human body. Welcome to the world of Hip Hop. These kids are finding a way to resolve their differences in a more constructive manner than killing each other on the streets. Steve Harvey plays a man who is devoted to this phenomenal group of stre e t dancers. He does a great job dealing out tough love to all the kids and running an arena where they can fight it out in competition. David (Omari) and Elgin (Houston) have been friends for the longest, but now their friendship is at risk. A death will cause them to discover what is really important. Will they pull it together in time to win the competition of a lifetime? Rating 5
50 First Dates PG-13 Starring: Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore, Rob Schneider, Sean Astin, Lusia Strus, Dan Ay k royd Hawaii is a perfect place to fall in love, but to fall in love with someone who suffers from short term memory loss can be quite a challenge. Henry Roth (Sandler), an aquarium vet, finds love when he meets the beautiful Lucy. They connect up on their first date, but then he discovers that he will have to make her fall in love with him all over again, everyday. He is up for the challenge. Nobody he has ever known has touched him like Lucy. How can he have a life with a woman like her? Will she remember him? He must find a way to make it work. 50 First Dates is charming and romantic. Rating 3
p a rents announce they are moving to Cuba after her father is offered an executive position with FORD. It's her senior year and Cuba is still in turmoil. She tries to adjust to her new wealthy peers, but is appalled by the treatment one of them gives a young Cuban waiter, Javier (Luna). She befriends him and finds that he is a g reat dancer. She has always been in awe of her p a rents, who used to be ballroom dancers. Now she finds her desire to follow in their footsteps irresistible. She persuades Javier to partner with her to win the prestigious national dance competition. There is struggle with prejudice within her family and their peers, but her spirit and her sights on the contest are not deterred. C h e m i s t ry between Luna and Garai burn up the screen. This is a film all unto it's own. There is a guest appearance by Patrick Swayze of the original "Dirty Dancing" movie. Though a little older he still commands attention on screen. He hasn't lost his step. Rating 4
DVD/Video Releases 3/02 Cold Creek Manor Duplex Good Boy Looney Tunes: Back in Action School of Rock 3/09 Mona Lisa Smile 3/16 Cheaper By The Dozen Dr. Suess' The Cat in the Hat 3/23 Gothika Honey The Rundown Undefeated
Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (2004) Dieago Luna, Romola Garai, Sela Wa rd, John Slattery, Jonathan Jackson, January Jones Katey (Garia) is less than thrilled when her
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 111
DINE & ENT
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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 112
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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 114
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DINE & ENT
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In the Downtown Historic District: The Florida Opry March 13th at 7pm 1914 High School Community Center: Model Railroad Swap Meet March 20th 9am-3pm. Miss Heart Of Plant City March 20th at 6:30pm. Tickets will be sold at the door for $10 beginning at 5:45 pm.
In the streets of the District: Strawberry Classic Car Show April 17th 4-9 pm Plant City Bike Fest April 3rd 5-9pm. Plant City Antique Street Fair April 10th 9am-3pm.
City Hall: City Commission Meetings: Monday, March 8 - 7:30 p.m. City Commission Regular Meeting Friday, March 19 - 4:00 p.m. City Commission Special Meeting - Water and Wastewater Rates and Development Fees Monday, March 22 - 7:30 p.m. City Commission Regular Meeting All meetings are held at City Hall in the Sadye Gibbs Martin Auditorium, unless noted otherwise.
Ramada Inn: March 5th Marshall Tucker Band March 13th Rat Pack Too March 20th The Nelsons March 27th Rat Pack Too April 3rd Bill Pinckney and the Drifters April 10th The Rat Pack Too For Reservations call (813) 752-5452.
Local Churches: Lord of Life Lutheran: An open invitation is extended to the public for Lenten services. On Ash Wednesday, February 25th, a Worship Service will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will include Imposition of Ashes and Communion. On the subsequent five Wednesdays in March you are invited for a light meal of soup and sandwiches at 6:00 p.m., followed by a Prayer Service at 6:45 p.m. The dates are March 3, March 10, March 17, March 24 and March 31. On Sunday, April 4th, there will be two Palm Sunday services. The Contemporary service is at 8:00 a.m. and the Traditional service is at 10:15 a.m. Specific plans for special services on Maundy Thursday, April 8, and Good Friday, April 9, will be announced later this month. The Season of Lent will culminate with two services on Easter Sunday at 8:00am and 10:15am. Lord of Life Lutheran Church (ELCA) is located at 2104 Mud Lake Road in Plant City, Florida. Northside Baptist Church: April 4th – Presentation of Cornerstone, an Easter Musicalmorning services at 11am. April 11th- Sunrise Service at 7:30 am. Springhead Baptist Church: Revival with Matt Pettit on March 28-31. Services will be held on Sunday at 11am and 7pm. Services will be held on Monday thru Wednesday at 7pm. Strawberry Shortcake will be served after the Monday services. Midway Baptist Church: Sunday March 21st – They will be celebrating their 105th Anniversary, with one FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 116
worship service at 11:00 am that day, followed by a celebration dinner. Please join us for this special occasion or any time to worship and praise the Lord. We are located at 2902 East Midway Road, Plant City. For more information, please call the church office at (813) 752-7209. Church on the Rock: Saturday, March 27, 2004 – 7:00 a.m. Golf To u rnament supporting Youth Ministry & Summer Camp @ Plant City Golf Club, 3102 Coronet Rd., Plant City. Please call 813-752-3740 for more information Bruton Memorial Library: 302 McLendon Street,(813) 757-9215 Regular Hours: Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Friday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.,Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sunday 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Special Programs: Lunch with the Lector, Tuesday, March 16, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Be a part of the One Community, One Book programs: After the book discussion of “Anna in the Tropics,” a guest lector will read to you as you enjoy a free Cuban soup and sandwich lunch provided by the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library. Then view a brief film about a man who struggles to keep his job reading to cigar rollers in the face of a new technology—the radio. Reservations are required, please call 757-9215.
Local Schools: Plant City High School Stadium: April 16th and 17th - The entire Plant City community is invited to join in the fight against cancer by participating in the Relay for Life. There is a $10 registration fee per person (with a minimum registration fee of $100). When your team registration fee is paid you may select your campsite and team theme. Each team member is asked to raise a minimum of $100. Everyone who raises $100 receives a t-shirt and there are incentive prizes available for team captains and individuals. Call 6850670 x112 for more information Cork Elementary School: Cork Elementary is celebrating 125 years of excellence in Plant City and the community is invited to come together for a day of fun and games. There is a fun run with registration beginning at 9am for K-5th grades, a silent auction, a demonstration by the fire department, and more. Sites are still available for rent at the event at a cost of $10 each. For Reservations contact Tammy Wilder at 863-559-2344. For more information on the event call the school at 813-757-9353. Wilson Elementary School Four students represented Wilson at the Regional Science Fair at the USF Sundome on Feb. 24, 2004. The winners and their projects are as follows: “Grab It! Grab All” by Corina Delagarza “Cleaning Up Oil Spills” by Hiriam Rios “There’s Something Fishy Goin On” by Brian Hoy “Let’s Brush” by Lee Marie Bocanegra All students received participation ribbons and Lee Marie Bocanegra received a medal for “Outstanding Project”. Students in grades three through five were eligible to participate in the school’s science fair. Wilson Elementary School encourages and promotes participation and appreciation of the arts and sciences for all their students. We are proud of all our participants and applaud their hard work and efforts. Hillsborough Community College: Job Fair at the Plant City campus on April 7th from 9am-2pm. Contact Laurie Ragsdale at 813-757-2214. Grandpa Johnson’s Barbeque: The Spring of Tampa Bay will sponsor a Western Fling at 6:30 pm on Saturday March 20th. The event will feature Steve Otto chili, Fred Johnson’s barbeque, music and more. Western attire is suggested and line-dancing instructions will be included. Tickets are $50 per person or five tickets for $200. Proceeds will benefit the Spring. For more information call Susan Kolker at 813-752-0525.
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 117
FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION MARCH 15 - APRIL • 2004 PG 118