FOCUS PC 04-04 April 2005 by Floyd Publications

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 1

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PLANT CITY EDITION

FEATURE 40-45

This month we explore some of the volunteer service clubs and organizations in the Plant City area. The volunteer spirit is certainly alive and well in our town. Without these wonderful volunteers, our community wouldn’t be what it is today.

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW 49-52

We visit with a Plant City icon, B. M. “Mac” Smith, Jr. as he reminisces about the various car dealerships his family has owned, his days in the Navy and some of what he is up to today. He also shares his vision for Plant City’s future.

DID YOU KNOW? 56

The Plant City Photo Archives reminds us of the sacrifice made by Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Ben Wilder and Perry Young. Through the Annual East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner the Plant City area continues to pay its respects. FOCUS Magazine also reminds you that the Plant City Photo Archives Annual “An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories” Gala is fast approaching.

ON THE COVER: B. M. “Mac” Smith, Jr. See his story on page 49. Photo by Mike Floyd.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 4

HOME GUIDE SECTION 58-83

This section is dedicated to buyers, sellers and owners.

SPORTS 90-92

We recap the game between the Plant City High School Raiders and the Durant Cougars boy’s varsity baseball teams at One Raider Place in Plant City. We also revisit the Plant City Tee Ball League comprised of 5 and 6 year olds and hold their games on Saturday mornings at Sansone Park.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT 100-117 This month the FOCUS Food Critic takes us inside the Baker Street Café located in downtown Plant City. It features good hometown, southern cooking served in a welcoming atmosphere with a smile. We also report on the wonderful show put on by The Diamonds in a repeat appearance at the Red Rose Dining Room in the Ramada Inn Plantation House. Singing such hits as “The Stroll” and “Why do Fools Fall in Love”, they had the crowd strolling down memory lane. We also pick the flicks on some of the chart-topping movies in theaters now. Looking for a place to eat? Check out the complete guide to Plant City dining out on the town.

PUBLISHER Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Linda Floyd linda@floydpublications.com MANAGING EDITOR Jeff Neely jneely@floydpublications.com OFFICE MANAGER DeDe Floyd dede@floydpublications.com CREDIT MANAGER Bob Hughens bob@floydpublications.com SALES Tania Summers tsummers@floydpublications.com Suzanne Gross sgross@floydpublications.com Julie Rose jrose@floydpublications.com ART DIRECTOR Phil Ransdell philrand@floydpublications.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Stefanie Burlingame sburlingame@floydpublications.com DISTRIBUTION Tony DeVane PHOTOGRAPHER Billy Friend STAFF WRITERS Sherri Robinson, Brian West, Sophia Dedon, Kristen Toney, Lynne Warren, Ken Lawrence, Laverne Stevens, Neil Fisher Christopher Diaz, Chris Ricketts, Connie DuBois CONTRIBUTORS Sherry Nueesch, Gil Gott, Jim Brown, Shelton Keely, Shelton Keely, Michael Cameron, Al Cohen

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Lakeland businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at linda@floydpublications.com. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Dade City & Zephyrhills businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed to 13,000 homes.

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ﬂoyd publications, inc. 702 West Mlk Jr. Blvd. Plant City, Florida 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 5110 7th Street Zephyrhills, Florida 33525 Phone 813.783.3415 Fax 813.782.9658

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 5

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

But we also have this wonderful opportunity to learn from one another. My greatest enlightenments have not been the result of some spontaneous epiphany, but rather through listening to the well thought out ideas of others. There are, of course, many ideas I don’t agree with. I don’t agree with everything printed in this magazine, and my perspective often differs from that of many of my family members. But I am thankful for the opportunity to contribute my own thoughts, and to listen to what others have to say. I am thankful I live in a country where we can engage in the marketplace of ideas, and choose for ourselves what we believe to be true. To be more adamant, we have a responsibility to think for ourselves, and then enter the arena of dialogue. I genuinely hope that each month Focus provides you with food for thought. Once armed with knowledge, we can give hands and feet to make truth a reality. Our Feature this month shows the many opportunities in Plant City to get involved by volunteering in the community. Mary Mathis gives us her column on how the Plant City government is serving the community. And there are many more stories that will be sure to entertain and inspire you.

Most days, I tend to wonder if I know anything at all. But I think in my 27 years I have managed to pick up on a few things. The two most inﬂuential factors in my learning have been faith and communication. I believe there are some lessons we learn on a level deeper than reason – a level that can only be accessed by faith. Ultimately, spirituality is something each person must work out for him or herself.

PRESS

CONTRIBUTORS

KEN LAWRENCE

Lynn Warren

Ken Lawrence is a former Canadian network TV reporter who traveled the world extensively covering Staff Writer international events. He met many world leaders and went on to become a broadcast executive in Canada.

Until next month, here’s wishing you truth in all her beauty. Enjoy.

Jeff Neely Managing Editor

PRESS

like to think I’m a moderate person – not just politically, but in every aspect of my life. It’s not a label I subscribe to, and it’s not that I fear committing to things whole-heartedly. I just don’t want to buy into someone else’s passion. I want to know the things I believe in, and give myself to, are my own. I want to ﬁnd truth, embrace it and cling to it for myself. Otherwise, it will slip away as quickly as it came.

KRISTEN TONEY

SHERRI ROBINSON

Kristen Toney has been writing for Focus since August was born in Indiana, but spent 15 years in Kristen Toney BrianSherri West of 2004. A life-long resident of Plant City, Kristen will Jacksonville, Florida. From 1995 to 2000 she traveled

Staff Writer Staff Writer graduate from Southeastern College in Lakeland this the northern U.S. through the states of Indiana, month with a degree in Communications, emphasizing Kentucky and Alabama, and finally ended her journey Public Relations and Journalism. She plans to pursue a in Plant City. career in Public Relations, while continuing to write in various outlets on the side. After returning to the south, Sherri worked in the He sold his business in 1993 and moved to the Tampa Fitness and Nutrition industry and finally found her Bay area, settling in Walden Lake, where he began a As far as writing for Focus, Kristen will continue until calling as a writer about 3 years ago at Focus. Sherrie new career in real estate with Coldwell Banker. He has time noDr.longer is a single mom to three talented young adults, Liz 23, won numerous and marketing 702 W.sales Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. awards. 702 W. M.L.K.allows. Jr. Blvd.“I’m enjoying this so much! 702 W. Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Plant 33563 FL 33563 21 and Cindy 19. They are currently involved in a I’ve hadCity, the FL opportunity to talk to people who are Plant City,Tim 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 incredibly gifted in what they do; what an inspiration new business venture together and look forward to it’s Ken is the longest running reporter for Focus Magazine, those conversations are to me! And as far as the success. joining the company shortly after it began publication events that I am able to attend and cover, it really is more than 3 years ago. Ken’s specialty is politics and he wonderful to watch this community come together for enjoys writing about life in general, especially around the benefit of all.” his beloved community of Walden Lake.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 6

LOCAL

Child Abduction Response Team Lance H. Newman, Special Agent for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, has written the City commending Detective Arden Haggerty who was a participant in the Child Abduction Response Team (CART) activation in Citrus County regarding the disappearance of Jessica Lunsford. Mr. Newman wrote he received many words of praise to the overall performance of the CART Team, but, more speciﬁcally, the performance of Detective Haggerty. He expressed his gratitude for a job well done. Additionally, in a letter to Chief Bill McDaniel, Citrus County Sheriff Jeffrey J. Dawsy expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming response for additional personnel and assistance provided by the Plant City Police Department in connection with the Jessica Lunsford search. He further stated their desire to do whatever is necessary to keep our communities united together. Florida Baptist Hospital has been chosen by the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc., Landscape Design Council to receive recognition for the beautiful landscaping they have shared with the com-

munity over the years. Members of Plant City Garden Club submitted Florida Baptist Hospital for consideration. Members of the Council judged the entry and found it to be very worthy. These awards are “unsolicited” and are judged on the functional aspects of the design, aesthetic pleasure it gives, suitability of plants to the site and incorporation of watering restrictions and maintenance awareness. Members of Plant City Garden Club were pleased to present the certiﬁcate of appreciation to hospital administrator William Ulbricht. A big congratulations goes out to Jessica Sierra, a former Plant City resident, for making it to the top 10 in American Idol! I’m sure everyone in this entire area is very proud of her! We will catch up with Jessica in a future issue and talk about her life as a Plant City girl and her new stardom on American Idol. Who knows maybe she will have a concert here. TBRPC Future of the Region Award The City of Plant City received ﬁrst place for the conversion of Plant City Stadium in the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council’s Future of the Region Awards in the Cultural/Sports/Recreation category.

The Award recognized the significance of innovative planning through the adaptive reuse of Plant City Stadium and practice fields following its initial purpose as a Major League Baseball spring training facility into a multi-functional regional destination for softball and community event use. Originally built in 1987, the facility saw limited use as the spring training home of the Cincinnati Reds Major League Baseball team for less than three months of each year. During the other nine months, it was not utilized due to its nature as an adult professional baseball facility and the City incurred significant operational and maintenance costs with only indirect benefits. In 1999, the City decided to convert the Stadium complex to softball for the relocation of the International Softball Federation (ISF) World Headquarters to Plant City. The Hillsborough County Tourist Development Council assisted with tourist tax funds to refinance the existing debt service for the stadium and provide $2.4 million to renovate the complex, fields and offices for use by the ISF and the City’s merged Recreation & Parks Department.

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The 76 acre facility includes a 6,700 seat stadium, adjacent four ﬁeld cloverleaf, a 16,000 square foot administrative building including a 1,500 square foot conference center and on-site parking to accommodate all events which have included: the Women’s Professional Softball League and All Star game, featuring the USA Olympic Team as televised on ESPN2; the inaugural Junior Girls’ World Cup, Slow Pitch World Cup, and World University Softball Championship; College Softball Exposure Tournaments; ASA Women’s “B” Fast Pitch National Championship; ASA Junior Olympic 18-Under “B” Fast Pitch National Championship; Florida Sunshine State Games; SEC College Softball Championship; NSA Over-40 Softball National Tournament; countless Youth, High School and Adult Slow and Fast Pitch Leagues and Tournaments; annual July 4th Celebration, Chamber of Commerce Pig Jam State BBQ Championship and other community events.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 7

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STORY & PHOTO BY SHERRI ROBINSON

STRAWBERRY SINGLES

IT’S WHAT’S HAPPENING IN PLANT CITY

ou’re single and it’s the weekend. Your friends ask you what your plans are. You answer, “Well I was thinking of going to Tampa for a movie or dancing.” Then you think, that’s a lot of driving and the price of gas is just outrageous right now. Somehow, it just doesn’t seem worth it. You opt for another boring weekend at home. Sound familiar? Get ready to make new plans. Come out and join the Strawberry Singles right here in Plant City. They meet every Friday night at 8p.m. at 1405 S. Collins Street. Though they will be celebrating their 10 year anniversary in May, not everyone knows about them. They originally began meeting at

the VFW. After a few months they relocated to the old Social Security building on MLK and Collins until they found their current location on Collins. Some of the members have been with them since the beginning and still enjoy dancing the night away every Friday. Singles enjoy a live band every Friday night including: 1st Friday (Western night) - Mark Coolidge 2nd Friday - Circles 3rd Friday - Tony & Tricia 4th Friday - Mike Lane If there’s a 5th Friday - Ron Bennett The Strawberry Singles also enjoy extra activities, such as Sock Hop, Prom, Tailgate Party, BBQ’s, picnics in spring and summer

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 8

and holiday dances, such as Christmas and St. Patrick’s Day. Several female members remarked that one of the best parts about participating in the Strawberry Singles is “it is a fun, safe place to come.” Friday night dances are so much fun that members who marry are allowed to come back twice a month with their spouses, including one theme dance. Every Friday night the Strawberry Singles mixes up the dancing with some of the member’s favorites, such as the Stroll and Circle Dance. Prices for Friday night dances are $7 for non-members and $5 for Alumni

and members. All new visitors get a free pass. If interested in ﬁnding out more about this fun organization, please call President Judy Smith at 813-739-2063.

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STORY BY BRUCE RODWELL

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE A reminder…..call the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce office at 813-754-3707 to have your organization’s event placed on the Community Calendar. By doing so, you can determine if your date conflicts with other organizations. This process also lets our Chamber know what is happening in the Community and we can promote your event. • On March 25th a group of members from the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce toured the Weyerhaeuser facility in Plant City. The plant occupies 243,000 square feet and they employ 123 people. The facility operates three shifts five days a week. The varied product line produced at this plant includes industrial packaging, produce packaging and sheets for both waxed and unwaxed materials. The facility has an in-house Structural Design Center which can provide sample mock-ups, direct print miniature or full scale samples, print cards, full size proofs and digital files sent via the Internet. The Chamber plans to arrange more on-sight tours of the various manufacturing facilities located in the Plant City area. This will allow us a greater understanding of their business and how the Chamber may be able to help them. • Are you 55 or older? If so, the AARP offers a “55 Drive Alive Course” at the South Florida Baptist Hospital. This 2 day course helps seniors tune up their driving skills. Participants may qualify for an auto insurance discount. Check with your agent. Registration is required and the cost of the course is $10.00. You can register by calling 813-7544444. • Here’s a date to put on your calendar…April 21st. That is the date of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours. This event is the first time the whole family is invited. It will be held at Lupton’s Boggy Bottom BBQ Ranch. There will

be plenty of food, including ribs & chicken, baked beans, cole slaw, potato salad, garlic bread, dessert and assorted beverages. The whole family can enjoy horseshoes, merrygo-round, seesaws, waterfalls, nature trails and hay rides. It starts at 5:00 PM. We ask that you call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 to reserve your place. Bring the family and meet Chamber members and your neighbors. It will most certainly be a fun filled event. Lupton’s is located South on route 39 to the traffic light at Keysville Road. Turn left and look for the sign one half mile on the left. See you there! On April 29th the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club will host the annual Children’s Classic Golf Tournament. Play as an individual player or bring your own team to support this event. Your participation will help ensure the continuation of a wide variety of children’s services in our community. Programs supported include South Florida Baptist Hospital pediatric health programs and screenings; the Wellness on Wheels program, the Kiwanis Club’s support of scholarships and the Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s support of scholarships. Fred’s Market Restaurant will provide a lunch. Then it’s off to the course for 18 holes of great golf followed by a fabulous poolside dinner provided by Outback Steakhouse. Awards and prizes will be presented during the evening activities. Call Jack Vasconcellos at South Florida Baptist Hospital to register. He can be reached at 813-757-1286. This promises to be a great event. • On April 30th the Plant City Parks & Recreation Department will present Teen Lock-In at the Plant City YMCA. This event runs from 7:00 to 11:00 PM and is open to ages 12-18. The cost is $7.00 and includes pizza, chips and sodas. Teens can enjoy a fun-filled

evening of swimming, racquetball, volleyball and soccer. For more information, contact Stephen at the Recreation Department at 813757-9166 or you can e-mail him at srossiter@plantcitygov.com. • Our Chamber is planning a Community Expo on Wednesday, May 4th from 3 to 7 PM. This will take place in the Florida Studies Building at Hillsborough Community College, 2003 E. Cherry Street, Plant City. Admission is free and it is open to the public. There will be over 50 local businesses showing off their new products, services and information. If you have a business and are interested in exhibiting at this event, call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707. Put the date on your calendar. There will be free food samples, door prizes and giveaways. Sponsors for this Community Expo are the Tampa Tribune, Hillsborough Community College, The Courier and The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. • Have you marked your calendar for Saturday, May 14th? That’s the date for the fourth annual Margarita Ball. Again this year it will be held at the home of Rick & Di Lott. This will be the second year for the very exciting fish derby! Call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 for information and reservations. This is one event you will not want to miss.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR April 30 – Florida Opry, 1914 Plant City High School Community Center. Program gets underway at 7:00 PM. Call 752-4094 for information. May 4 - Community Expo at Florida Studies Building, Hillsborough Community College. From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Call the Chamber ofﬁce at 754-3707. for additional details on exhibiting. Admission is free and its open to the public.

10 May 5 - National Day of Prayer: Breakfast at 7 AM. Noon Services at City Hall Evening Services at 7 PM. Call Rev. Norm Blanton at 752-4671 for locations and details. May 5-6. Plant City Entertainment presents “Lend Me A Tenor” at Hillsborough Community College. Tickets are available at Hardee’s Fashions, 1501. North Wheeler Street (Route 39), Plant City. Phone 813-754-4929. May 7 - Bike Fest in Historic Downtown Plant City from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. Great family fun. Come and see hundreds of motorcycles on display. May 11 - Contact Breakfast sponsored by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Call the Chamber ofﬁce at 813-754-3707 to reserve your place. May 13-14 Plant City Entertainment presents “Lend Me A Tenor”. See dates May 5-6 above for details. May 14 - Fourth Annual Margarita Ball at the home of Rick & Di Lott. This great event starts at 7 PM. Tickets available by calling the Chamber ofﬁce at 813-754-3707. May 21 - 1 st. Annual St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital Golf Tournament at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Details can be obtained by calling Dinah Helton at 813-717-9127. Don’t forget to save the date of November 19th. That is the date of the third Annual PLANT CITY PIG JAM STATE BBQ CHAMPIONSHIP OF FLORIDA This event is sponsored by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. For more information, log onto www.plantcity.org or call Jodi Smith at 813-754-3703 or Chris Sparkman at 813-754-9554. It’s an event you will not want to miss.

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FUN FOR FREE!

THE 23RD ANNUAL CHILDREN’S FUN FESTIVAL

Three year old Nicholas Conrad had loads of fun making bubbles at the Knights Elementary Booth.

“Fun for the whole family” and “completely free of charge,” those two phrases are rarely used in conjunction with one another. However, thanks to the Arts Council of Plant City and H.C.C., that rarity was made into a reality. There were three hours worth full of activities. Whether it be the entertainment, games, arts and crafts, eating, observing, or simply socializing, it was hard to do it all in one day. Many thanks go to the co-chairmen

of this event, Sharon Everidge and Marsha Passmore. Immediately upon approaching the campus, the fire truck, Wellness on Wheels bus, talking car, inflatable slide, Plant City Police and Fire rescue, and a Bayflite helicopter were in the front to greet everyone before they came around back. The kids received much enjoyment from playing on the huge slide; they would go up and down several times before they were willing to go on. The most startling of all those stations was the talking car. An officer stood next to a uniquely painted VW Beetle with police lights on it. Upon initiating conversation with the officer, she would direct you to the car because “he is a much better speaker than me,” she

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 12

said. By standing in front of the car anyone could literally carry on a conversation with the car about anything. It was like talking to a human, but rather coming from a car! The talking car talks to kids about safety and staying drug free. At 11:00 the Central Florida Dog & Disc club performed for everyone. Most of their dogs come from shelters and then they teach them how to catch Frisbees in many miraculous ways. The talent of these dogs shocked everyone in the audience. They were running, spinning, leaping, and even jumping over their trainers to catch the Frisbees and then immediately return them to their trainer. Following this act, for the rest of the afternoon dancers performed on

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the stage from Jackie’s Dance Theater, Plant City Children’s Theater, Shirley’s Dance Studio, and Strawberry Square Dancers. There were booths galore sponsored by schools, clubs, day cares, and service organizations. Knights Elementary had Dancers from Jackie’s Dance Studio performed for everyone with smiles gleaming from their faces. a booth for kids to make jelly beans, but could also be worn gigantic bubbles from the two kiddy as a bracelet. Other booths also had pools full of bubble liquid. “Our edible crafts, such as the YMCA, booth runs itself and is so easy, yet who showed the kids how to make the kids and adults love it,” they peanut butter play-dough. They also said. Meanwhile, they had bracelets made butterflies out of coffee filters and lollipops for sale, using the and made necklaces and bracelets profits as Relay for Life donations. with beads. The Pilot Club, a service The Junior Women’s Club, who organization that raises money for sponsors the Little Miss Plant City brain disorders, showed the kids Girls throughout the year, had the how to make Incredible Edible girls working at a booth decorating Bread. They gave them a milk and sugar cookies. Next to them was food coloring mixture that they used the Women’s Club of Plant City to paint bread and then the women who gave out flower wrist bands toasted the bread for them. that were tied around an egg full of

Barabara Giacobe and her dog Riot performed to the music of Zoot Suit Riot.”

Rather than eating with the kids, some booths chose to just have some fun. For many years now Plant City Entertainment has been providing fake-tattooing for the kids to turn their bodies into art for a day. The Athletic Club set up an obstacle course for children to race their friends in a friendly competition. The Bits and Pieces Puppet Theater made stick puppets with the kids. “I’ve probably made tens of thousands of these with kids, but the best part is each one is completely different because the

kids are so different,” said one of the volunteers from the theater. Looking out for the children’s safety, Dignity Memorial Funerals provided tips for how parents can better protect their children from abduction. As the day drew to an end, few people were probably able to participate in every activity option, but regardless, no child walked away without having fun.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 13

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STORY BY JOE LANE

TEKOA COFFEE

SOON TO BE ONE OF PLANT CITY’S FAVORITE PLACES

Jared Cate and Pete Randall making an espresso.

ared Cate and Pete Randall, church friends, got tired of looking for good coffee shops. They decided to start their own. Tekoa Coffee is the result. Jared believes “If we can make a living off it, why

not?” He also confessed they would have more proﬁts if they didn’t drink so much of it themselves. They have plenty of experience: Jared has worked coffee shops in California and England; Pete used to work for Starbucks. Because they know coffee so well, they know what it is, and isn’t, supposed to taste like.

Their enjoyment of the beverages they serve shows in customer service. It is like a mom and pop shop. There is a dedication to the store. You will be served by the owners, or a friend of the owner. It is the only thing like it in Plant City. Don’t let the lack of competition fool you; it is better than places elsewhere, too. Both Jared and Pete agree their coffee is better than Starbucks. “It’s the best I’ve ever had” Jared told me. Very high quality beans which aren’t roasted as dark, so it’s less bitter, makes for very ﬂavorful coffee. Chris Denhoff, owner of Westshore Pizza, fronted the money to buy the machines. What makes him trust these two guys? Jared worked with him before. “He is the most loyal guy” Chris said of Jared. “Both of

them have worked at coffee shops; they are good guys,” he continues. The reason business is going so good, according to Chris, is that they have the right approach: Working hard, loving your job and supplying a good product. His trust is not unfounded. Business is growing every week and they’ve had hardly any complaints. They want to move into their own place soon. “Not eventually; soon.” Chris was sure to point out. Jared and Pete want to create the perfect hangout for the people of Plant City, complete with couches and cool coffee cups. They also have some other things up their sleeve for the new place. The only thing left is where did they get that name, and what does it mean? Go ask them.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 14

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STORY BY SOPHIA DEDON

PLANT CITY SKATE PARK

NEARLY A YEAR LATER AND STILL THRIVING

n idea became a goal. A goal became plans. Plans became an accomplishment. An accomplishment became a success. The Plant City Skate Park opened on May 21, 2004, and now, nearly a year later, has proven to be well worth the investment. Initially the Skate Park was envisioned because the city had a problem with kids skating on business property. Reports have shown that the number of skaters in downtown has decreased since the park opened. Nearly 500 skaters have registered with the city to have a permit to skate at the park. In the past year, the city has heard of no reports of any injuries that have occurred at the park other than the typical bumps and bruises from the falls of missed landings.

The community gets so much use out of this establishment. In February, HAVOC held a skills competition at the park and the place was packed. Despite the excessive use of the skate park, the equipment has shown to be holding up substantially well. Another beneﬁt that is reaped from this development is that parents no longer have to drive their kids to other towns or cities to be able to skate, but rather simply make a trip up to Mike Sansone Park. “We are happy to have this park for the youngsters to enjoy. There is so much enthusiasm from the kids, and parents know it provides a safe place for them to go,” said Jack Holland,

Director of the Recreation & Parks Department. The city actually has extensive plans for changes that will be occurring behind the Otis Andrews Park. The skate park was the first undertaking; that will be followed with eight tennis courts, five soccer fields, four baseball fields, four softball fields, buildings, walking trails, and rest areas. The skate park was just the first step in a series of bright ideas forming into beneficial realities.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 15

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STORY BY JOE LANE PHOTOS BY JOE LANE & COURTESY OF JENNIFER JACKSON

PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT INC. TWENTY FIVE YEARS… PUTTING IT TOGETHER

Theater brings together family. In the production of “The Wizard of Oz” little girls came dressed up as Dorothy. Dodie said it was good for kids to see the stage play. They knew the story from the movie.Seeing it on stage is different, more real.

he year is nineteen eighty, the Arts Council of Plant City donates four hundred dollars to start a company to put on plays in Plant City. Jennifer Jackson, a young girl full of energy, just nineteen years old, heads it up. Under her guidance it grew very quickly. By the third show Plant City Entertainment had grown large enough to pay back the four hundred dollars.They were an entity of their own.Twenty-ﬁve years later not much has changed. Her hard work, along with the others working with her, made what is now a large production company. PCE is still a theatrical production company made up of dedicated men and women. I asked Jennifer Jackson, the President, and Dodie White, the Vice President, about how it all started. They couldn’t contain their enthusiasm. They were giddy

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 16

just talking. On stage they were even better. When asked who the president is, Jennifer and Dodie looked at each other. Jennifer said: “Is it me this year? Sometimes we switch,” (they both laugh). The atmosphere is not of one in charge. It’s more: they are all there together, making it happen as a team. It’s this teamwork that makes the productions so entertaining. Watching all the actors and actresses on stage you can tell they share more than just a stage. Dodie said “If we’re having fun on that stage they can’t leave not having fun” The key to a good production is being friends on, and off, stage. “After practices we all go out to Applebee’s or to my house for spaghetti” reminisces Jennifer. They include everybody, no cliques allowed. With new people coming in all the time, they cannot afford it. Jennifer said:

“I have grown up here, my kids have grown up here, and my best friend has grown up here (she looks over at Dodie) they both laugh. Dodie: “I love it so much, it’s like coming home” It is their hobby. After a long hard day at work they just want to go home and sleep; instead they put together another production. It takes a minimum of seven weeks for a production, three to ﬁve days a week. There is a lot of work that goes into it. They are always looking for more talent. In their production of “Bye-Bye Birdie” they had 22 brand new people. It keeps it fresh. They are also looking for a new theater. They have been at HCC, which has been very cooperative and helpful, but they don’t want to be a burden. Also, they could do more in a place they can call home.

The Twenty-Fifth Anniversary Special was excellent. Before the show there was wine and cheese tasting. Then they did a major song from each of their productions. It lasted about an hour and ten minutes. They showcased the talent, songs and emotions they had gone through in the past together. Jennifer said: “We are up there having a party, and there is an audience.” It was more of a reunion than a performance. It was amazing, nonetheless. From the ﬁrst scene on the park bench, to the ﬁnal closing bow, it showed they are professional grade. There is still plenty of excitement to be seen. It is not too late to join in the fun. You can buy tickets at Hardee’s Fashion in Plant City. This summer holds great excitement for all at PCE. Jennifer and Dodie were both telling me, at the same time, they just acquired the rights to produce “Beauty and the Beast”. This could be their best production yet! That’s how they like it: a little better each time.

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Crowd gathers to hear encouraging words from Pastor

hen James Jones came to be the new Pastor of Westside Baptist Church two years ago, the church had some challenges he needed to help overcome. The church had lost some of its members due to a previous situation. It became a little tougher this year when Hurricane Jean wreaked havoc on the church by sending a tree through the building and creating a real mess to clean up. The church had just voted to make some improvements on the building before the hurricane came, so they wondered what they were going to do. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Due to the damage they had received, they ended up receiving insurance money that helped them make the church building an even nicer place than they had originally planned. When the work was complete they decided to have a “Rededication Service” to celebrate. Easter Sunday seemed to be the perfect time. It all began at 9:45 a.m. with the cutting of the ribbon and a concert given by a Lakeland group, “One Reason” during the Sunday School hour. The congregation also enjoyed a shorter performance by “One Reason” during the Church Hour.

Pastor Jones gave his sermon on “The Tale of Two Trees.” One of the very large limbs from the storm was brought in as an example of how a tree can offer life or create damage. Though the church had sustained damage, it is well on its way to restoration. New life is beginning to bloom at Westside Baptist Church. The purpose of the rededication was not just about the refurbishments. It was also about letting former members and the community know that the church is now a place of healing. Pastor Jones said, “It’s not only Easter, but also a new beginning for Westside Baptist Church after weathering the storms.” They would love to have you visit them at 2505 W. Granﬁeld Ave. Services are as follows: Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship 11 a.m. Evening Worship 6 p.m. Wednesday Youth and Adult Worship 7 p.m. If you have any questions, you may contact them at 813757-6280, or email them at reachingpeople@joimail.com.

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ast year he hit .353 for the Chattanooga Lookouts. He won state championships in baseball and basketball at Tampa Catholic High School. He earned letters in football, basketball, baseball, and track at Tampa Catholic, where he also set the state passing record with over 7,000 yards. Now 26-year-old Kenny Kelly wants to serve you a meal.

place more of a destination for kids. He plans to have rafﬂes with prizes like bikes on the line. Kelly also wants to make sure that the restaurant sponsors local youth sports teams and church youth groups. The Bay Area Cherry’s has already made a practice of giving money to youth organizations and Kelly wants to make sure his restaurant continues the practice.

Kenny Kelly, who is currently trying out for the Cincinnati Reds, has purchased the Cherry’s Restaurant franchise at 1702 S. Alexander Street. While the menu that Plant City folks have come to know over the years will remain unchanged, Kelly plans to make subtle changes to the local eatery.

Kelly also plans on bringing professional athletes to the restaurant to sign autographs and visit with children and fans. This is bound to go over well in Plant City, where celebrity sightings are comparatively rare. Maybe his favorite high school wide receiver Darrell Jackson, now of the Seattle Seahawks, will stop by to sign. Jackson was the one who helped Kelly surpass 7000 passing yards in high school

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 20

and helped make Kelly one of the top high school quarterbacks in the country. Demos, who has worked with Kenny Kelly for six years, offers assurances that the menu of the restaurant is set by the company and that Kelly merely owns the franchise in Plant City. So if you’re attached to the Turkey Mush or the Jimmy C’s Clubber you can rest easy at night. Kenny Kelly has always tried to keep his school, college, and professional career choices close to home. He attended Tampa Catholic High School and was highly recruited by colleges around the country. He chose the University of Miami, not only because of the outstanding football tradition, but also because it was in Florida. He was drafted in the second round of the 1997 Major League draft by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, again keeping him close to home. Ironically, Kelly is now the property of the Cincinnati Reds, who used to hold their Spring Training in Plant City.

the New York Mets’ organization for two seasons. Kelly has been in Bradenton for Spring Training, trying to crack Cincinnati’s roster, but on March 16 of this year Kelly was assigned to minor league training camp, according to the Associated Press. Cherry’s is a Bay Area establishment that is making inroads to expansion outside the Tampa Bay Area. There is already a location in Jacksonville and one coming soon to Bradenton. The Plant City location is already a popular, familyfriendly location to watch football on Sunday evenings. Cherry’s might not be an ofﬁcial sports bar, but it’s about to get a much more athletic feel in the hands of Kenny Kelly.

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STORY & PHOTOS BY SOPHIA DEDON

TELL YOUR TALE

NIKKI KIMMEL DETERMINES HER OWN FUTURE

lant City is known for being a small town. Whereas this comes with many benefits and provides for a very warm community, it also carries its down sides. Nikki Kimmel’s family has been a part of this community for over fifty years and is thus known by many people. Ask anyone who has a long established Plant City family and you will find that just by someone hearing your name, you are associated with a certain expectation or reputation. Nikki Kimmel wanted to become her own person despite this stigma. Nikki was born and raised in Plant City and graduated

from Plant City High School in 1997. In high school she was heavily involved in agriculture and FFA. She showed steer and pigs at the festival and even won Grand Champion in 1994 with her pig. After graduation she went to the University of Florida, but not because she wanted to. After three semesters she came back to town and attended HCC for a while. She has yet to complete a degree, but sees college as something everyone else wants her to do. She herself is not very studious and does not want to go through with it if she is only doing it for other people. For a while she worked various jobs, but she came to the decision that, “I hated working for corporate America. No matter how hard you

work, you are putting your heart into something and none of it is for you.” So, she decided to open her own business. In July, 2004, she opened Scrapper’s Delight in the plaza by SOHO. Currently her shop is small, but she has many plans and ambitions for its growth. “Scrapping is only one piece of the pie,” said Nikki. She is looking forward to adding new aspects and elements to her store as time passes. In February of 2006 she will be marrying Ricky Sewell and stepping into another phase of life. “I no longer wanted to live their dream for me, I wanted to live my dream,” said Nikki. Well, it is evident that she is paving her way to a dream come true.

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A JOINT EFFORT OFFERED TO THE COMMUNITY THE CITY AND THE ROTARY CLUBS DEDICATE THE ALL-PERSONS PARK

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L to R: Steve Solomon (President of Plant City Rotary Club), Jack Holland (Plant City Director of Recreation and Parks), Plant City Mayor Mike Sparkman and Teresa Lott (President of the Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club) prepare to cut the ribbon for the all persons park, while Rotary members look on.

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he sun triumphed over the clouds for a few moments on February 26 to smile down on the grand opening of Plant City’s ﬁrst All Persons Park. Amidst the grilling of food, the laughter of children and the satisfaction of a job well-done stands the colorful 2400 square foot playground, complete with easy access for any handicapped children who wish to play along. Gilchrest Park has been part of Plant City for years, but the need for improvements has recently arisen. “I want to commend the Rotary Clubs for stepping up,” said Jack Holland, Director of Recreation and Parks for the City. “We’ve spent the past ten years upgrading the parks in Plant City, and we’ve yet to meet the needs warranted by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). The Rotary Clubs stepped up to the challenge, and we’re thankful for their contribution.” The two clubs in Plant City are known as the Plant City Rotary Club and the Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club, boasting approximately 125 members between them. Together, these clubs are raising $100,000 for the park, and in the future, the city

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 24

will also contribute $100,000 to the project for items like restroom renovations and landscaping. Steve Solomon, President of the Plant City Rotary Club, commented on the reasons for advancing the park. “This year marks the 100th Anniversary of Rotary International, also the 50th Anniversary of the Rotary in Plant City. Each club was given a challenge to do a special project in their community, commemorating the centennial anniversary. We mutually decided that we wanted to give our assistance to the Parks and Recreation Department on this project.” Mayor Mike Sparkman, a rotary member himself, was present for the ribbon-cutting. “This partnership between the city and the Rotary Clubs is one of the things that make Plant City different from any other town,” he said. Worldwide, some 1.2 million Rotarians belong to approximately 31,000 Rotary Clubs in over 165 countries, dedicated to truth, fairness, good will, better friendships and things beneﬁcial to all. As far as Plant City is concerned, the goal is being met.

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Some people have referred to them as “owning your own apartment”. Townhomes are commonplace throughout Florida, with literally hundreds in the Brandon area alone. However, there have never been any in Plant City for various reasons, probably one being that they have the so-called urban “yuppie” ﬂavor to them.

There will be 80 units with 2 home sizes, each 2 stories high. Number one will be a 2 bedroom, 2 ½ baths, 1,462 square foot unit with a loft area and covered lanai. The second design will be a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with loft, master bedroom downstairs, computer station and great room upstairs. It will have 1,552 sq. ft. of living space.

No matter the reason for lack of townhomes in Plant City, they’re on their way now. The ﬁrst of what could be several such projects is to begin construction very soon.

The community will be gated, with pool, cabana and play area. Your realtor-reporter has long championed the cause for townhomes in Plant City. Not only do ﬁrst time homebuyers ﬁnd them appealing, but retirees, who want a maintenancefree home, are attracted. The project is the brainchild of Peter and Kelly Abraham, who have been either building custom homes in Plant City, or renovating old ones over the years. Their work has been top-notch. Kelly Abraham is also a realtor, although she

The project is named Alexander Woods and will be located on a 6 acre parcel on Maki Road, across the street from Plant City High School and just a few feet north of Alexander Street. Residents will be able to walk to the shopping area on Alexander and Jim Redman.

devotes most of her attention to her husband’s and her business. They have put together a team of some prominent Plant City people, including former City Manager, Phil Waldron, J. J. Massaro of Beef O’Brady’s fame, Vince BradleyEngineer, Todd Long-Coach of the Plant City High School football team, Cecil Everidge-Investor, Joe Owens-Investor and Todd PukasBanker. Construction could start in early June and the Abrahams are already taking orders. Call Kelly Abraham at (813) 240-5346 for more details.

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rom the corner of MLK and Collins, stretching southward to the Whistle Stop, boldly stands a painted mural on a concrete wall. This structure, on a nearly vacant lot, serves as a pillar of hope for many Plant City residents. The work of art stands as a symbol representing the strength of the community’s efforts to preserve its historic district. “We have no intentions of disturbing the mural,” said David Hawthorne. David and Vicki Hawthorne, proprietors of Hawthorne Management, trace their roots back to Plant City. Several years ago, they purchased thirteen buildings in an effort to “spearhead” the renewal of the downtown area. The Olde Village Shoppes on South Collins Road were part of this purchase. The Hawthorne’s have a contract pending to acquire the land on the corner of S. Collins St. and Dr. M. L. King Jr. Blvd., where the historic John Briggs mural resides. The current plan is to reinforce the structure behind the mural and have the artist restore the painting to its original condition. Eventually a small, welllit park area may accompany the painted structure. This is one of the possibilities considered for this site. Plans for the remainder of the block include a single three or four

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 28

story building with the ground floor reserved for business. This will establish a mixed residential and commercial community. Bringing residents to the downtown area may lead to the growth of local establishments. As a result, more money will stay within the community. “These types of buildings generally lead to thriving downtowns. I’ve seen several cities revive this way,” Hawthorne said. The objective is to construct a modern, yet historically accurate building for the site. Preserving the historic look and feel of downtown Plant City is of widespread interest to its residents. Members of the city planning department and historic groups will be consulted throughout the process. The Hawthorne’s have retained an architect experienced with historical restoration projects. All persons involved with the task are working to preserve the historic value of the site. Although the specific details are not finalized, residents will most likely see the rebuilding commence within the next six months. Actual completion of the project could take up to two years.

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STORY & PHOTO BY SOPHIA DEDON

CLUTTER BUGS

CATHY CARR HELPS OTHERS ORGANIZE THEIR LIVES

Cathy Carr works with people to organize their homes and in the process, their lives.

er job is quite different from all other professions. Cathy Carr helps other people get to a point in their life where they no longer need to hire her. As a professional organizer, a common misconception is that the customer pays the staff, gives them a key to their home and says, “Here you go,” while they redo everything for them. On the contrary, the organizers will work with you to organize your space. They cannot do it alone because they wouldn’t know which items you use most and which could be disposed of. Carr’s business is called Clutter Bugs and is relatively new. So many people are completely unaware that professional organizers even exist. Some will work with businesses, but Clutter Bugs works mostly residential jobs. Their typical services include garages, attics, sheds, kitchens, closets, home ofﬁces, rooms, and also moving or relocating. “When you get to the point where you cannot park your car in your garage, ﬁnd things around the house, or have to move things

in order to simply clean, that’s when we come in,” said Carr, “We serve as a jump start to get you motivated.” Professional organizers do not come in and remodel everything for you. Rather, they help you work with what you have. Often times, they will work with people about to put their homes on the market and make it look appealing to the eye. They work around their customers’ hours so they are available at all times. “We don’t do anything that someone couldn’t do themselves. You can ﬁnd storage container’s at Lowe’s and organize everything yourself. However, people just don’t have the time anymore. We want to help people remove the clutter from their lives,” said Carr. Clutter Bugs will provide a free estimate of the job you want done. For larger tasks there is one lump sum, but smaller ones can be done for $40 an hour. You can reach Clutter Bugs at 813-404-5352. Avoid living in a life of clutter and call the people who can help you clean up your life.

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LOCAL

STORY BY KEN LAWRENCE-SENIOR WRITER

NEW MAN ON THE BLOCK

A REPORT ON THE NEW PLANT CITY COMMISSIONER—ROBERT BROWN munity, whether we’re ready or not, and so I want to make certain that the Plant City ﬂavor of this community continues”. He says he does not want growth to become uncontrolled, so the area does not become another Brandon with its almost ungoverned appearance. “We need to give great consideration as to how we’re going to develop the city, so we can still call it home and maintain that small town feel”, he said. Brown is the father of two children. His wife Wendy is a high school teacher at Durant. Son Andrew is 21 and works at Beall’s Department Stores, while daughter Pamela, 19, is a freshman at USF.

e tossed his hat into the proverbial ring and the voters of Plant City did not throw it back. So Robert Brown, in his ﬁrst foray into politics, has been elected City Commissioner, defeating Liesta Sykes by a margin of 174 votes in another election that attracted fewer than 1,400 voters. Apathy reigns!

The 47 year old Brown, a Plant City resident for the past 20 years, is Executive Vice-President and CFO of Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loans Association, on Baker Street in downtown. He takes the seat held for many years by outgoing Mayor Mike Sparkman, who did not seek reelection.

Son of an army ofﬁcer, Brown was born in Washington, DC, moved to Sarasota at a young age, then to Lutz and ﬁnally Plant City. He is a graduate of USF.

Brown says he thinks the city has done a good job of managing itself. “Clearly the government has got to make sound business decisions as it continues to grow, and I think I can bring sound business experience to the policy making process”, says the rookie Commissioner. Robert Brown has served as Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and has been very active in the Kiwanis Club.

In an interview with FOCUS, Brown says his overall goal as City Commissioner is to “recognize that growth is going to come to this com-

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©2005 AmSouth Bank. Member FDIC. 1The Variable Annual Percentage Rate of Prime minus 1/2% (currently 5.25% APR as of 3/24/05) is available for transactions that post to your home equity line of credit for the first 30 days the account is open. To qualify for this special pricing, you must either open or have an existing AmSouth checking account. If your home equity line of credit account becomes 61 days past due, the promotional rate of Prime minus 1/2% will revert back to the standard rate, calculated as described below. On transactions that post to your account after the first 30 days, the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) at 80% loan to value and first lien position is currently as low as Prime minus 1/4%, currently 5.50% APR as of 3/24/05 and may vary. The APR is based on the Prime Rate minus a discount or plus a margin. The Prime Rate is merely a reference rate. The APR for your home equity line of credit will be based on several factors including your credit history, and may be slightly higher than the rate set out above. The maximum APR is 18%, except in Florida where it is 17%. 2Ready to close in 24 hours available on most loans under $50,000. If applying by phone or internet, 30-minute answer is valid Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Central Time. Some restrictions may apply. Contact your AmSouth banker for details. 3AmSouth may pay your closing costs and fees. Consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest. Closing costs are estimated to range between $150 and $1500, depending on the amount of your home equity line, and may be waved based on line amount and initial advance. If you repay more than 25% of the amount initially advanced on your home equity line within 90 days, the portion of your closing costs paid by AmSouth will be charged back to your home equity line. The annual fee of $50 is waived as long as you make at least one advance per year on your account. If you close your Credit Line Account during the first three years after the Opening Date for any reason other than the sale of your property, a prepayment penalty will be imposed as follows: $300 in the first year, $200 in the second year and $100 in the third year (except in Louisiana). Offer and rates are subject to change without notice. Subject to credit approval.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 30

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON PHOTOS BY BILLY FRIEND

MISS HEART OF PLANT CITY 2005 WAS ON “THE QUEST FOR THE CROWN”

best wishes for a speedy recovery to Jennifer and Amanda. Miss Heart of Plant City is doing a great job helping to bring opportunity to the girls in our city. Lots of hard work from the Board of Directors, Brenda White, Regan Paul and Kitty Simmons takes place throughout the whole process, especially the night of the pageant. Another hard working group of individuals are the judges; Robbin Wiggins, Chris Prevatt, Pamela Smith, Justin Holton, Aleda Budd and Auditor Brenda J. Stempson, who audited the scores, and Regional Manager David.

lmost every little girl dreams about becoming Miss America. How to get there is the question. A big dream and hard work is the answer. It is no easy thing to get to where our contestants of the Miss Heart of Plant City have progressed to, but the rewards are well worth it. Each young girl who enters the Miss Heart of Plant City is not just competing for a local crown; they are competing for an educational scholarship and an opportunity to compete in the Miss Florida Pageant. If she wins on that level, she will go on to compete for the Miss America crown. This year’s pageant took place at the Tomlin Middle School gymnasium on Saturday, April 2nd, at 6:30 p.m. The excitement was at an all time high as the line up for the evening began. Brenda White graced the stage with her presence and her voice as she sang the National Anthem. Executive Directors, Regan Paul and Brenda White welcomed the crowd to the 2005 Miss Heart of Plant

City, and explained in detail the events that were to come, such as the entertainment by Jackie’s Dance Studio, who did two numbers, and other entertainment by Jennifer St. Martin, Jaclyn Raulerson and Ericka Willis. The categories the contestants were judged on were Swimsuit 10%, Talent 30%, and Interview 40 %. Other categories of the evening included Evening Wear and the new Casual Wear. Each girl was required to pick a platform and each received 2 questions that related to that platform. The competition concluded with a tribute to reigning Miss Heart of Plant City, Jennifer St. Martin, her farewell and ﬁnal walk, followed by the announcement of the winners for 2005. They are as follows: Miss Heart of Plant City 2005 - Holly Stein, who received a $1500 scholarship from Bill Heard Chevrolet 1st Runner Up - Ashley Pippin received a $300 scholarship by Ed-

wards, Platt, Raulerson & Co. 2nd Runner Up - Toinette Gerena 3rd Runner Up - Jessica Rupp Congratulations to all the girls! The following is a list of all the competitors and their talents: Donni Rae Pitcock - Piano, Amanda Holland - Dance, Allison Craft - Vocal, Kendelle Prestwood - Dance, Jessica Rupp - Dance, Toinette Gerena - Dance, Bethani Coone - Flute, Ashley Pippin - Dance, Ayla Sanchez - Vocal, Christie Sparks - Baton, Toni Lynn Coker – Dance, and Holly Stein - Piano/Vocal. Three young ladies could not compete this year, but should be recognized. Jennifer Petrash, who was injured during rehearsal, Amanda Young who came down with Appendicitis and Victoria Greene, who just won Miss Tampa and was not allowed to compete for a second title. Congratulations to Victoria and

Joseph E. Sedita & Company managed the pageant’s accounting needs. Thanks to all of you. Special thanks to: Bill Heard Chevrolet & Mr. Paul Baker, Edwards, Platt, Raulerson, & Co. - Dan Raulerson Billy Friend Photography Brown’s Floral Shop - Flowers Fred’s Market Restaurant Ramada Inn Plantation House - Nelson Porta Red Rose Dining Room Vibrations of Sound - Mitch & Charla Kerwin Jackie’s Dance Theatre - Entertainment Jackie Everidge - Studio for Practice & Spot Light Joseph E. Sedita & Co. Mark Ackett - PCHS Tampa Wholesale Nursery Bethany Baptist Church - Hosting Orientation Dejavu - Advance Ticket Sales Tammy Simpson & Crystal Wiggins – Backstage Gerri McSmith, Kelli Tharrington, Shayna Boyer, Ericka Willis, Shirley Raulerson, Kelly Andreau, Kathy Pagliaro, Katie Rader, Lydia & Sara Oratowski Rick Carlton - Head Usher Plant City Police Dept. – Security

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 31

LOCAL

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 32

Shepherd “had no idea things were going to take off so fast” but he’s thrilled with his success. One of the things that help him produce his fabulous designs is a computer controlled machine he purchased in Denver called the “Plasma Cam.” Shepherd says, “It’s amazing what you can do with it.” He just scans his design in to the computer, makes the needed adjustments with the program and the machine takes it from there. The “Plasma Cam” can cut 80” a minute producing several designs an hour. After the designs are cut, he takes them to a table

where he sands off the rough edges and does any welding that is needed. Next, he will send many of his pieces to Jurnigan Equipment for a powder coating that gives it that smooth painted look. Shepherd says he “does a good job. I’m happy with him.” Shepherd makes a wide variety of items, including welcome signs, coat racks, pictures, and beautiful tables. He can custom-make just about anything. Recently he built some ﬁreplace doors and screens. His latest line of art work includes strawberry designs. He thought those would be great for this area, especially for the Strawberry Festival. He hopes to have a booth there next year. Shepherd says everything is still quite a challenge, but he is enjoying the process of learning all the things he can do. As yet, he doesn’t have a website or catalog, but if interested in purchasing his work, you can contact him at 813-478-0187 or 813752-4542.

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LOCAL

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STORY BY SOPHIA DEDON

RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT EASTER EGG HUNT NOTHING BUT FUN FOR EVERYONE

et ready. Get set. Go! And approximately 800 children crawled under the barrier lines and raced into the fields of hay searching for more than 8000 hidden Easter eggs. For the sixteenth consecutive year the Recreation and Parks Department hosted the annual Easter egg hunt for the children in Plant City. Children ages 3-11 gathered at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex for a day of food, games, shows, family, and most importantly, fun. There were many activities for the children, such as an inflatable slide, an inflatable space walk, balloon creations, rock climbing wall, face painting, photo shoot with the Easter Bunny, a professional juggler, caricatures, hot dogs, and of course, the egg hunt. This year there were multiple changes compared to past years. The most obvious of them all would be the relocation of the entire event. For the past fifteen years, the egg hunt was held at HCC. How-

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 34

ever, this year it was moved to Otis M. Andrews, due to construction at the college. “The new location has been great because you can actually see everything that’s going on from everywhere because it’s so open,” said Deborah Haldane, the main coordinator of the event. The other change was the addition of the rock climbing wall, which the children thoroughly enjoyed. The Recreation and Parks Department puts on two large events every year, one being the Fourth of July Fireworks Show and the other being this Easter Egg Hunt. “This is our one time of the year when our entire department comes together for one purpose,” said Deborah. Though the July Fourth Celebration is large, more teamwork is involved with the egg hunt. It takes more than just the Recreation and Parks Department to put on such a community-oriented event. The Optimist Club has been volunteering since it

began and they grill all the hot dogs. The Civitan Club provides volunteers, mostly from Plant City High School, to work for the day. The Egg Hunt began as purely a community beneﬁting event and still holds that same purpose today. There is no cost for any of the families or children, other than the adults have to pay for their hot dogs, but the kids’ are free. All would not have been possible without the help of the sponsors: Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan, Plant City Fire/Rescue, Plant City Police Department and the Plant City Optimist Club.

such as eating ﬁre. His stage act only added to the excitement of the day.

Prior to the egg hunt, everyone gathered around to watch Dallas, a professional juggler, present his show. He juggled everything from ﬁre to machetes. He picked random people, not by their choice, from the audience to enhance his show. There was much crowd involvement, and he kept the children in suspense the entire time by performing tricks,

As the day came to a close, the children walked away with eggs, a full tummy, a painting on their cheek, and a smile on their face. The parents walked away knowing they brought their kids to a safe, fun event for their enjoyment, and the city walked away knowing yet another Easter Egg Hunt turned out successful.

The actual egg hunt was divided into four age categories: 3 & 4, 5 & 6, 7 & 8, and 9-11 in order to keep the hunt fair. In all four nests, secret golden eggs were hidden. The ten children that found them all won a special Easter basket ﬁlled with bunches of goodies to enjoy. Other eggs contained gift certiﬁcates, candy, and coupons. Every child walked away with at least some eggs in their basket.

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AROUND TOWN

LOCAL

STORY BY LINDA FLOYD

ANNOUNCING THE THIRD ANNUAL “FOCUS ON YOU” MAKEOVER

t’s that time of year again, when you need to start thinking about that special someone in your life you’d like to write us a letter about, telling us why he or she deserves a full day’s makeover. Or perhaps it’ll be you, wanting to take a day off to just pamper yourself. Either way, just write us a letter in one hundred words or less and tell us why you, or someone you know, deserve this fabulous day of luxurious pampering. Your “Focus On You” Makeover will be on May 27, 2005. The day will begin with breakfast, and then you’ll take a “before” picture. After breakfast, it’s off to pick out a brand new outﬁt. Next on the schedule is a massage, and if you’ve never had one, you’re in for a treat.

Following that will be lunch and then you’ll be whisked away to a premier salon to have your hair done, a manicure and a pedicure, and then a relaxing facial. Lastly, a make-up artist will give your face a new lease on life with all the latest colors.

we don’t hear from you within one hour, we’ll move on and pick another winner. Be sure you are able to take the day off on May 27, 2005.

Finally, sporting your hip, new outﬁt and looking and feeling like a brand new you, you’ll be picked up by a limousine and taken for a romantic dinner with your honey. Two women and two men, aged 21 or over, will be chosen by the Focus staff to be our “Focus On You” winners. All entries must be received by midnight May 19, 2005. Winners will be notiﬁed on May 20, 2005. We’ll call you and you will have one hour to contact us. If

Remember, tell us why your nominated person deserves this makeover in one hundred words or less and mail it to Focus Magazine, “Focus On You” Makeover, 702 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. You may also send your entries by e-mail to DeDe@Floydpublications.com. Place “Focus On You” Makeover in the subject line and send your entry in the body of the e-mail (no

attachments, please). Be SURE to include name, address, home phone number and work phone number, and e-mail address, if you have one. Letters and entries may be published in Focus Magazine and photographs will be taken throughout the “Focus On You”makeover day and published in the following month’s edition. Enter now!

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� � �� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 37

LOCAL

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STORY BY KEN LAWRENCE

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YARD & LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SAFE ALTERNATIVES

Manual Methods: • Spading and hoeing to cut up weeds. • Hand-picking weeds from your lawn and pests from your plants. • Setting traps to control rats, mice and some insects. • Mulching to reduce weed growth.

Spring is in the air! Itʼs that time of year when we all start thinking about and preparing for the maintenance and care of our yards and landscapes. One of the ﬁrst things people think in order to have a beautiful yard is pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers to make everything lush and beautiful. Not always so! Although these products can be beneﬁcial if used properly, they also can be costly and pose health concerns for ourselves, others and the environment. We would like to offer some safe alternatives from conventional methods as they pose virtually no hazards to human health or the environment.

Biological Controls: • Beneficial Predators: Birds, bats, lady beetles (ladybugs), spiders centpedes, ground beetles, lacewings, dragonflies and ants. You can buy and release beneficial predators. They are available from sources such as gardening catalogues and magazines. Contact the County Co-Operative Extension Service, or a nursery or garden association for information on how to attract and protect beneficial predators. • Microscopic Pathogens: Fungi, bacteria and viruses. A number of these biological pesticides are available commercially at hardware and garden stores. • Biochemical Pesticides: Pheromones and juvenile insect hormone traps. Pheromones lure pests inside a trap. Juvenile insect hormones interfere with an insectʼs normal growth and reproductive functions.

Pest control: Spray plants with soap and water solution (3 tablespoons of soap per gallon of water) for aphids, meal bugs, mites and whiteﬂies. Spray with pyrethrum, a derivative of a type of chrysanthemum, to control mites, beetles, caterpillars and aphids. Fertilizer: Compost. Recycle your vegetable scraps, lawn trimmings, leaves, etc. There are plenty of web sites to get composting information. For beginners, I would recommend the website: www. compostguide.com They offer all sorts of good information to get started.

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A REPORT ON THE 4TH ANNUAL DRIVE FOR LIFE GOLF TOURNAMENT

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 38

olf tournaments have become an excellent source of funds for charitable organizations. One such recent event, the 4th Annual Drive 4 Life, was held on a Saturday afternoon, March 19th, at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. It raised some $13,000 for the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City. The Center, located on Collins Street in downtown Plant City, has been counseling young women for several years about the sanctity of human life and alternatives to having an abortion. The Pregnancy Care Center has an average of 135 young women come through its doors each month. They receive a free pregnancy test, accurate information on their pregnancy, plus maternity and infant clothing. The golf tournament was held under ideal weather conditions, as some 85 golfers teed off a shotgun start for a full afternoon of golf. This was after an excellent lunch, held at the golf course dining room. Mary Alice Hendricks tells FOCUS that there were no

unusual incidents, such as golfers falling into a pond or hitting their balls through someone’s dining room window. Following the match, prizes were awarded and extra money was made through raffle tickets. There were 45 “hole sponsors” with the ‘Noon’ Rotary Club being the number one sponsor. LottMather had one of its new autos on display and offered it free to anyone who got a hole-in-one at a certain hole. There was no winner. We wonder what the odds are of winning that car? The Pregnancy Care Center wants to thank all who participated in the Fourth Annual Drive for Life Golf Tournament to benefit the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City. The weather was perfect for a great tournament. Everyone enjoyed the great raffle prizes. A special thanks goes to all who worked so hard to make this a wonderful event. All proceeds go directly to the intervention programs at the Care Center.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 39

WHAT CAN YOU DO

for your

COMMUNITY?

volunteerism is a worthwhile endeavor for anyone. story by brian west â&#x2DC;&#x2026; photos courtesy of the clubs and organizations

WHAT CAN YOU DO for your COMMUNITY? H

ave you ever had a desire to give back to your community, to give of yourself for service to others? If so, there are many different clubs and organizations right here in Plant City that are always looking for volunteers just like you; each one with a different purpose, but all in the spirit of giving back to the community or to those in need. In fact, you may be surprised to learn about all

the different types of volunteer services that are available in our small town. Of course, there are the traditional organizations you ﬁnd in most communities, such as the Kiwanis, Rotary and Lions organizations, but there are also many clubs and organizations that offer a great variety of services. Here is a look at some ways YOU can get involved in Plant City.

The Kiwanis Club of Plant City The first Kiwanis Club was organized in Detroit, Michigan and the group received a charter from the state of Michigan on January 21, 1915, the birth date of Kiwanis. The first clubs were organized to promote the exchange of business among the members. However, even before the Detroit club received its state charter, the members were distributing Christmas baskets to the poor. Kiwanis was defined as “an organization for men” in the constitution and adopted in 1924, but in 1987, after several years of debate and growing support, women’s membership received overwhelming approval. The Plant City Kiwanis Club was established in 1921. They were the first men’s civic club and are credited with the formation of the Board of Trade in 1924, what we now know as the Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Their fundraisers include the Children’s Golf Classic golf tournament, which is put on in partnership with the South Florida Baptist Hospital and the Chamber of Commerce. Their service to the community includes the Christmas for an Angel program in which the club collects and distributes toys to children in the Plant City schools. If you are interested, please contact John McCaughey, President, at 719-1103. Meetings: Wednesday Time: 12:00 p.m. Location: Ramada Inn – Red Rose Dining Room Membership: 45 Co-ed

Boy Scouts of America Boy Scouts of America was incorporated on February 8, 1910, and chartered by Congress in 1916. The purpose of the organization is to provide an educational program for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop

personal ﬁtness. To become involved in Boy Scouts, community-based organizations receive national charters to use the Scouting program as a part of their own youth work. These groups, which have goals compatible with those of the BSA, include religious, educational, civic, fraternal, business, and

The Plant City Garden Club The Plant City Garden Club began in 1948 with a focus on beautiﬁcation and conservation of the Plant City environment. Their earliest project was the landscaping of South Florida Baptist Hospital when the building was ﬁrst completed. Since that time, the club has been involved in many other events. The club hosts the Horticulture Show at the Florida Strawberry labor organizations; governmental bodies; corporations; professional associations; and citizens’ groups. Basically, a group who is interested in starting a scouting program may contact Boy Scouts of America to receive support, training, and materials. Boy Scouts of America then provides an individual to meet with the group once each month to maintain the support neces-

Festival; they provide butterfly gardens for the children at area schools. The club also does a garden therapy program with the residents of Autumn West Assisted Living Center, an assisted living center for seniors. But the Plant City Garden Club is probably best known for awarding a homeowner each month with a Landscape Beautification Award. If you are interested, please contact the Garden Club at 7525485, or Darci Stottlemeyer, Club President, at 813-752-1911. You can also find information on their website at www.Home. tampabay.rr.com/pcgarden/. Meetings: Monthly (Currently under review, but likely Monday or Wednesday) Membership: 51 Co-ed

sary to make the program successful. Ken Camp of the Gulf Ridge Council of Boy Scouts of America said, “Volunteers are always a need. Volunteers support and grow the program and without them, you won’t have a successful program.” If you are interested, please contact Steve Cox, Gulf Ridge Council Representative, at 7527004.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 41

WHAT CAN YOU DO for your COMMUNITY? Bread of Life Christian Mission The Bread of Life Christian Mission began serving the Plant City more than 13 years ago. It began as a ministry primarily focused on meeting the basic needs of Hispanic migrant farm workers and their families, but quickly evolved into several different programs. The founder of the organization is Reverend Julio Santana. He and his wife, Elba, were born and raised in Puerto Rico and later lived in Boston, Massachusetts for 15 years. They both were bilingual teachers for the public school system. While living in New England, they were active participants in different churches where Reverend Santana was a Sunday school teacher, Youth director, men’s group president, deacon and elder. Mrs. Santana was also

a Sunday school teacher, women’s group president and deaconess. In August 1993, Reverend and Mrs. Santana founded the Bread of Life Christian Mission in Plant City, Florida, to respond to the immediate needs of low-income families in the area, the majority of which are from the migrant farm working population. Because of the language barrier, these families miss out on the opportunities and beneﬁts this community may offer them. More than 3000 families have been ministered to through the different programs the Mission offers. The Mission can always use volunteers to work with children in after school tutoring programs, the computer lab, sporting events, handing out food baskets, cleaning and building maintenance, or to serve on their Board of Directors.

South Florida Baptist Hospital Auxiliary The volunteers of the South Florida Baptist Hospital began in 1971 and were originally known as the “Gray Ladies.” Years later, the name Gray Ladies changed to the “Pink Ladies.” Today, this group of volunteers is simply known as the South Florida Baptist Hospital Auxiliary. You may think of the term “Candy-Stripers,” referring to young women volunteering in a hospital, when you think of hospital volunteers, but this group is far more diverse. There are young and old and male and female volunteers.

The group performs a wide variety of tasks for the hospital. They deliver books and ﬂowers to patients, escort visitors to the patients, staff a computer lab in the Community Resource Center and the Gift Shop. But one of the more interesting things they do is knit caps for newborn children. Many of the supplies, such as the books for patients, have been donated from people throughout the community. If you are interested, you can pick up an application at the front desk in the main lobby of the hospital. For more information, please call Margie Rogers at 757-1230.

If you are interested, please contact Bread of Life Christian Mission, at 813-754-2840.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 42

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 43

WHAT CAN YOU DO for your COMMUNITY? The Plant City Recreation and Parks Department

The Rotary Club With the claim, the world’s ﬁrst service club, the Rotary Club of Chicago, Illinois, USA, was formed on February 23, 1905, recently celebrating 100 years of service. Rotary’s popularity spread throughout the United States in the early 1900’s, as clubs were chartered from San Francisco to New York. The Rotary mission has grown since that time and is best expressed in its principal motto: Service Above Self. In 1985, Rotary made a historic commitment to immunize all of the world’s children against polio, working in partnership with non-governmental organizations and national governments through its Polio Plus program. In 1964, the Rotary Club joined South Florida Baptist Hospital to begin the ﬁrst blood bank. Today, Plant City has two Rotary Clubs: the Daybreak Rotary Club and the Noon Rotary Club. The Daybreak Rotary Club holds a golf tournament each year as a fundraiser and the Noon Rotary club is responsible for the Wild Game Cookout, which has raised over $700,000 through the effort. For the Daybreak Rotary, please contact Teresa Lott, President, at 252-0318. For the Noon Rotary, please contact Steve Solomon, President, at 754-3561. Daybreak Rotary Meetings: Wednesday Time: 12:00 p.m. Location: Ramada Inn – Banquet Room Membership: 25 Co-ed Noon Rotary Meetings: Tuesday Time: 12:00 p.m. Location: Ramada Inn – Banquet Room Membership: 80

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 44

The Plant City Recreation and Parks Department (PCRPD) has been around since the 1940’s, but really began to become involved in the community in the 1960’s. Today, if you have a child who is involved in sports, you deﬁnitely know about the PCRPD. They sponsor several leagues each year for young children in the area, including basketball and soccer. Jack Holland, Director of PCRPD, said, “We’re always looking for coaches. We have 48 teams and approximately 500 players in the basketball league and 108 teams and approximately 1350 players in the soccer league.”

about 6700 people from the area. Volunteers are needed to coach, referee, park cars, and usher. If you are interested in coaching, please contact Danny Smith, Youth Athletic Coordinator, at 659-4200, ext. 4313. If you are interested in volunteering at one of the recreational centers, please contact Jaci Jenkins, Recreation Supervisor, Planteen, at 757-9166, or LaTosha Lewis, Recreation Supervisor, MLK, at 757-9194. You may also contact Stephen Rossiter, Special Events Coordinator, at 757-9166.

The department also sponsors special events such as dances, games, and Kids Night Out. Kids Night Out is held once each month, which really provides an opportunity for parents to have a night out. The children attending are treated to games and pizza. All these activities are held at the Planteen and Martin Luther King recreational centers. The department also sponsors the July 4th celebration at Plant City Stadium, which typically draws

East Hillsborough Historical Society The East Hillsborough Historical Society, formed in 1974, is a 501(C)3 non-proﬁt organization dedicated to the preservation of the historical and cultural heritage of Plant City and Eastern Hillsborough County. The purpose of the Society is to foster and encourage interest in historic inquiry and study generally, but especially among its members; to collect, preserve, and house historic documents and objects, especially those pertaining to eastern Hillsborough County and the State of Florida; to collect, preserve, and house genealogical books and materials to aid genealogical research; and to encourage and participate in historic preservation. The Society has a fundraiser each year just before the holidays in which they sponsor a candlelight tour of some of the local homes within the boundaries of the Historic District.

After the tour, participants may also choose to participate in a dinner at an extra cost. The Society’s newest project is “Images of America Plant City,” a book containing more than 150 photographs of Plant City and the surrounding area. The photographs focus on pioneer families, historic sites, agriculture and schools. The books are $19.99 plus tax and shipping charges. Tax is $1.40 and shipping is $1.50 per book for a total of $22.89. The Society has also put together some Plant City Vintage Postcards that will be available this summer. To order, send your payment along with your name, address, phone number and e-mail address to: the East Hillsborough Historical Society, IAPC Project, 605 N. Collins St., Plant City FL 33563-3321. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the East Hillsborough Historical Society. Ofﬁce hours are Tuesday – Friday, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., or call 813-757-9226.

The Plant City Lions Club Since 1917, Lions Clubs have offered people the opportunity to give something back to their communities. In 1925, the organization was challenged by Helen Keller to be “the knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness.” Since that time, the organization has focused its efforts towards individuals with sight related problems. Lions have expanded their focus to help meet the ever-increasing needs of our global community. Lions programs are continually changing to meet new needs and greater demands, but their mission has never wavered: “We Serve.”

Queens Contest, a food booth at the Florida Strawberry Festival, and a golf tournament held in October. The club provides eye examinations, eyeglasses, and arranges for eye surgeries through the Florida Lions Foundation or the Division of the Blind Services of Florida. Most of the volunteer work within the Plant City club is helping with the fundraisers. The food booth alone takes at least 7 people to work each of 2 shifts each day during the 11-day event.

The Lakeland Lions Club chartered the Plant City Lions Club in 1929. The Plant City Lions Club currently has three annual fundraisers; the Strawberry Festival

Meetings: Tuesday Time: 12:00 p.m. Location: Ramada Inn – Red Rose Dining Room Membership: 90 - Co-ed

If you are interested, please contact Judy Barta, Past President, at 754-6193.

Strawberry Stitchers of Plant City The Strawberry Stitchers of Plant City is a non-profit organization that makes teddy bears available to children during stressful situations. The group was founded 16 years ago and makes about 1000 bears annually. The bears are given to policemen and firemen, emergency rooms, and to day surgery, who give the bears to children. As you can imagine, policemen and firemen are often faced with stressful situations that involve children. My wife and I once found a very young little girl wondering the street in our neighborhood, crying. She was probably only 3 or 4 years old. We called the Police Department and an officer quickly arrived. While the little girl stood and cried, the officer went to his patrol car to get one of the bears for the girl. Fortunately, just a few moments later, the girl’s father arrived. Seems he was watching her, but fell asleep, and the little girl wondered out of the house and through the neighborhood. The Strawberry Stitchers get together once a week to

make the bears. Their only fundraiser is selling quilts at Pioneer Day. The group accepts donations of supplies, such as cotton, but also need volunteers to sew, stuff, cut, and embroider. If you don’t already have one of these talents, they can teach you. If you are interested, please contact Barbara Mahoney, President, at 7548826. Meetings: Thursday Time: 7:00 p.m. Location: Winter Visitors Center Membership: 15 Co-ed

s you can see, there are many ways to get involved in the community through a club or organization. Hopefully, you’ve read about some ways to volunteer that you may have never thought about. But be careful. Once you begin volunteering, you may ﬁnd it to be very contagious.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 45

EXTRA

Mary Thomas Mathis

STORY BY MARY THOMAS MATHIS, VICE MAYOR

SMART GROWTH WITH A CONSCIOUS population report for Plant City was 29, 915. Each year, by July 1, the US Census estimates the population of cities and counties. The present size of Plant City is 26 square miles with an estimated population as of July 1, 2004 of 32,002 residents. By the year 2010, the US Census estimates the population of Plant City to be well over 35,000 citizens.1 Where will these new residents live? Will they live to the east, to the west, to the north, or to the south of the city? Within the last year, the City Commission has approved resolutions for an estimated 6,000 new residential building sites; most are single-family homes, others are multifamily homes, condominiums (condos), and townhouses.

lant City, Florida is not just a city; it is a community with character. Fred Johnson, the former president of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce, introduced Plant City as a city of character at the beginning of his presidency 3 years ago. Citizens of our close, tight knit community have been able to create partnerships between city government, businesses, schools, families, the media and the faith community to build Plant City as a city with positive character. Neighbors watch

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 46

out for one another and also take care of one another. Diversity is working here in Plant City. There is no place in Plant City a citizen can’t go to. Even as we grow, will we be able to maintain our character? The City of Plant City was incorporated as a city in the year of 1885. The ﬁrst population count by the United States (US) Census for the city was completed in 1890. In that year, 340 citizens had residency in the city. The ofﬁcial 2000 Census

To the “east” of the city, more than 3900 homes will be built. The largest community in the east will be Lakeside Station, located on Park Road with a total of 2800 homes, condos, and townhouses. To the “west” of the city, approximately 70 homes will be developed. To the “north”, about 1500 homes will be built. One of the largest community units in this area is named “Eagle’s Crest”, with an address on Knights Grifﬁn Road. To the “south”, nearly 1000 homes will be developed. In the southern area, the site of “Trapnell Ridge” is on the corner of Trapnell and Mindedahl Roads

with 200 single-family homes being constructed sometime this year. Two years ago, the City Commission worked very hard and long to create a vision for the city with short and mid range goals over a 3 year period. Plant City vision statements are in the areas of leadership, downtown, infrastructure and service, and economy and people. We realized that our city was not just another city, but a community with character; this is one of the reasons why our city has attracted so many to live here. To prepare for this article, during my spring break holiday, my husband, Tony, and I spent time questioning many as to how and why they made the decision to live here. Some of the responses were: it’s near family, it’s a beautiful and clean city, there is little or no trafﬁc at 5:00 in the afternoon, the crime rate is low compared to other cities close by, the people are friendly here. As we grow, we must continue to provide the excellent service that our ﬁre and police departments give to us everyday. We must be cognizant of the environment and infrastructure. We must pay attention to the increasing enrollment in our schools. We must be concerned about water supply and usage. We must carry on with our strong diverse relationships. We must be well prepared for needed utilities. All-in-all, Plant City, Florida is not just a city; it’s a wonderful, exciting, dynamic community with a positive character that we must preserve as we prepare for “Smart Growth with a Conscious.”

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 48

TERVIEW IN

TLIGH SPO T

A Plant City Icon When you say the name Mac Smith around Plant City, people will immediately say “The car guy”. While he may have made his living following in the footsteps of his father B. M. Senior, Mac Smith and his family have done so much for Plant City and the entire Tampa Bay region over the past several decades. From a very modest garage on Haines Street, now MLK and site of Paradise Foods, the Smith family has sold cars in Plant City for generations. However, their philanthropic work has made a mark on Plant City that will be with the community for many years to come. In an interview with FOCUS in the comfort of the game room at his home, Mac Smith spoke about his intriguing life…….

An interview with

B.M. ‘Mac’ Smith, Jr. story by ken lawrence

F: Tell us about your early life. Smith: I was born in Jacksonville, Ken, and moved to Plant City when I was about 4 years old. My mother was an English teacher here. When we first moved here, I think Plant City had a population of about 7,500 people and you walked to school, walked to just about everywhere and you knew just about everybody. Of course, my mother was a ninth grade teacher of English for some fifteen to twenty years, which meant she taught practically everybody of my era. It was a wonderful childhood with many good friends, many of whom I still have today. Coming back to Plant City after I got out of the navy was something I looked forward to and I’m glad we stayed here. F: Can you name some of the people who are still around today whom you grew up with? Smith : Well, I lived just a few blocks from Don Walden. We started going to school together when we were six years old. Robert Parker, who is a retired FBI agent, grew up here in town. We have a little high school reunion and we meet once a month now. So a lot of them are still here….Bill Wilson, Charlotte Walden, Howard Fleming, Billy Meares, just to name a few. We have about twenty five or so who meet once a month.

B M ‘Mac’ Smith Sr at ﬁrst car lot on Haines St. (MLK)

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 50

F: How do you compare today’s Plant City High School with the old one you attended as a youth? Smith: We have a lot of memories of the old Plant City High School. You know, I just associate school with that place. At the new high school, things are a lot more open. Discipline is not quite what it used to be. It was pretty effective back then. I tell you, I went out to the Trapnell School as its Principal of the Day a few years ago. Jack McMillan was the real principal and I was really impressed with the faculty and what they do. I really believe that teachers in this area are doing a wonderful job in keeping up with changing curriculum. F: After you graduated from Plant City High School, did you enter the navy immediately? Smith: I went into the navy two months after graduation in 1946. I joined a navy program called the B-5 program, in which they’d send us to college for two years and then you’d go into ﬂight training at Pensacola and serve three more years and then they’d send you back to college for your third and fourth years. So I went through that program and got

my wings at Pensacola in 1950. But then I stayed in the navy for eight years due to some circumstances. I had planned to get out, but on a training flight one day in which I was the instructor, a Super Conny landed wheels up, and through a series of a couple of Boards and a few things, I finally was exonerated and then wanted to stay on and fly a Four Star Admiral around Italy. That kept me in longer than I had planned. So I finally got out in 1958 and came back to Plant City. By the way, two of our daughters were born in Italy, my youngest daughter Marion and my middle daughter Cathy were both born in Naples, Italy. Marion was about six months old when we moved back here. She had dual citizenship until she was 18. F: Did you see the Korean War during that period? Smith: In 1950 the Korean War was going on but I was in a pretty safe position. I was part of a patrol squadron that was flying out of Newfoundland, looking for submarines in the North Atlantic. We never did find one. I stayed in the Reserves when I left active duty and each summer we would go back to Ar-

The new BM Smith auto store on Jime Redman Parkway

gentia, Newfoundland and fly again. In the early 1960’s, I attended an Arctic survival school at Goose Bay, Labrador, also a part of Newfoundland, and we used to haul workers up to Thule, Greenland, back when they were first building that base up there. I got very familiar with the North Atlantic. It has the worst weather in the world. F: When you returned home from the services, did you get into the automobile business immediately? Smith: I joined my father. My dad had been a used car dealer while I was in high school and it flourished pretty well. When I came home, he was taking on the American Motors franchise about the time my tour was up in Naples, Italy. So I just decided to join him and that’s the only job I ever had. F: Was his business in Plant City? Smith: Yes. It was located on Haines Street, now Dr. Martin Luther King, where Paradise Food is located. I joined him in 1958 and in 1964 we sold the property to Paradise, who wanted to expand, and we moved out to the present location on Jim Redman Parkway and Park Road. The American Motors Company, which included such cars as the Nash Rambler, accounted for only three percent of the US auto industry and were it not for our friends and the community, we would have had

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B.M. ‘Mac’ PLANT CITY ICON Smith, Jr. problems. We really learned how to sell during that period. My dad struggled early on, but many people such as the Trinkles, Borings, Morgans and Moodys just helped my dad to get started. F: Did most of the business come from used cars? Smith: Yes. It sure did. F: Tell us about the American Motors experience, which later evolved in Chrysler-Dodge? Smith: When we got that franchise in 1964, we thought we could make a go of that business. At the time it seemed like a good business decision. In 1969, American Motors bought Kaiser, which had the Jeep. So we became Jeep dealers in the 70’s, and then we bought the Renault dealership, which didn’t last too long. At that time we began remodeling, adding to our Jeep and American Motors dealership. Chrysler offered Marion, who had become my General Sales Manager, the Chrysler-Plymouth-Dodge and Jeep dealership, provided we build another building. We were on the corner at the time, so we moved down Park Road and Marion became the Dodge dealer. That was in 1989 and 1990 was the ﬁrst new model year for our Dodge-Plymouth-Chrysler business. About the day we opened was the start of Desert Storm in Kuwait and Iraq and our business just stopped. It had been going quite well, especially with Jeep, but for a year or two we were taking money out of savings. We were losing money. People just quit buying cars. After the war, business picked right up again. F: When did you decide to sell the business? Smith: We never planned to sell the dealership. It had been in our family some 57 years, since 1944. As you know, such companies as Auto Nation were gobbling-up dealerships, but we never thought we would sell

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 52

until two friends of the family came over and made us an offer. I was 72 at the time, in 2001 and Marion was the General Manager. She had been there a little over 20 years and I had never been away anymore than a week or so at a time. It was getting to be ‘Not Fun’ anymore. So we talked it over and decided to go ahead and sell. I could take time and Marion could do what she wanted to do. She has a real estate license and we thought we would get into real estate and own some properties. John Gillette had been a friend who had been calling on us, selling automotive products and life insurance. I think he always wanted to get a dealership of his own. He had a partner, Tom Arthur, and so they became the dealers. At the same time, the lady who was President of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce resigned all of a sudden, and Marion had been chairman 17 or 18 years ago. So they asked her if she would serve as president while they had a search committee look for a permanent President. Of course, they asked Marion to serve full time and she has really been enjoying it. As for me, Marion owns a small building at the entrance to Walden Lake and I have a little real estate holding company. It gives me an opportunity to get out of the house and meet friends at my ofﬁce uptown. F: You’ve been a little modest. Tell us about some of the things you have done for the community? Smith: Early on I joined the Kiwanis Club and some years later I became president and while I was president, we decided to take a bus trip up to Jacksonville. Hayden Burns had been mayor of Jacksonville and was planning to run for Governor. They convinced a lot of people to get involved with his campaign. I told Mr. Burns that if he decided to run for Governor, I told him that I’d certainly like to be his campaign

manager in Plant City. Well, as it turned out, he became Governor and he appointed me to the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority at the time they were building the new Tampa airport. So I had a little part in that. Not wanting to kick tires and stay on the lot all the time, I became involved in a few things, a term on the Mofﬁtt Cancer Center Board, a term on the Tampa Sports Authority, a term on the Hillsborough County Civil Service Board and was on the Barnett Bank Board (now Bank of America). Of course I was involved in things here in Plant City (major involvement in the Strawberry Festival and Hillsboro Bank). In Tampa, when a young businessman moves into town he wants to get involved in the community right away, such as the Chamber of Commerce. Here in Plant City, if you don’t run fast enough, they’ll grab you to be on these boards. I enjoy being involved. The last dollar doesn’t mean that much to me. My family is comfortable and as I mentioned, the Plant City community has been very good to us. It’s been a great life for my family here. F: How do you see the evolution of Plant City over the years? Smith: Plant City has evolved very slowly. We were like the country cousins of Tampa. We were in a rural area and you kind of grow according to the roads. Interstate 4 and the fact we are so close to it, has helped. As Tampa started growing and moving a little bit this way, we were approached by industry and Tampa’s Chamber worked very closely with Plant City. People, like Danny Wilkes at TECO (Tampa Electric), have helped our economic arm for a long time by getting tips and passing them along. But it was not until Walden Lake that Plant City started to establish its place on the map. Our city facilities are good and we don’t have a large debt. Our utilities had excess capacity and so people ﬁnally came to invest in Plant City. As a realtor, Ken,

you have seen developers looking around, buying up tracts of land. We have a great city commission. We have leaders there who are real dedicated and who are real qualiﬁed. Take the Sunrise project, (the plan to build another Walden Lake type community on 1,400 acres off Park Road) the commission really looked at it carefully and made them meet certain criteria. I think that project will be great and I hope they will do the same scrutiny for some of the other projects. Its one thing to have a planned community, like Sunrise and Walden Lake, but it’s another thing to have these other smaller developments just spring-up. F: State Senator Tom Lee has stated that it would be a shame if the rural ﬂavor of Plant City disappears. Are you fearful that this could happen? Smith: I have always felt that with our form of government, we are independent and to this day we don’t like to think of Tampa encroaching. Plant City is against consolidation and I think, with our city government, I think you’ll see Plant City maintain an atmosphere like we’ve enjoyed. I do think that we’re going to have to slow down growth in some ways. I think Plant City should be a little more selective when it comes to future growth, so we can maintain our way of life here. F: Do you still work an 8 hour day? Smith: I turned 76 a few weeks ago. I do what I want, when I want, and stay kind of busy. It’s a nice life. We’ve been traveling a bit, especially to the Canadian Rockies, which I consider one of the most beautiful places on earth. It’s been great and we’re still involved in a few things in the community and keep our hands in. F: Mac Smith, you have done a lot for this community and we wish you and your family the very best. Smith: Thank you, Ken. Thank You.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 55

LOCAL

STORY & PHOTOS BY PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES, INC.

PLANT CITY AREA CONTINUES TO PAY RESPECT

THROUGH THE ANNUAL EAST HILLSBOROUGH LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DINNER The number of sponsors has grown through the years, with over 50 businesses and organizations lending their support, and the committee has involved dozens of individuals over the past forty years. All this to show the citizens’ appreciation for all the hardships that law enforcement personnel endure “so that we might work and live in a safer community.”

very year, citizens of the greater Plant City area pay their respects to the many employees of the various law enforcement agencies operating in the county. Begun in 1962, the East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Appreciation dinners have continued through the years

and the organizers have saluted over 400 ofﬁcers and personnel of the Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce, and the Plant City Police Department.

Ben Wilder was a well-known man about town and very active in community activities, including the Plant City Lions Club. He was also a Sergeant in the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce. On July 21, 1962, Ben Wilder and Deputy Perry Young were shot while investigating a domestic disturbance in rural Plant City. Sergeant Wilder was killed and Deputy Young was

severely injured by a gunman who was later shot and killed in a shootout with some of the more than 30 law enforcement ofﬁcers, from four different agencies, who responded to a call for help. Following this tragedy, a group of East Hillsborough businessmen organized the ﬁrst East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner and honored Ben Wilder and Perry Young. The original business leaders were John Pollock, Wiley Gillespie, Foy Lee, Carl Shoemaker, and Percy Wheeler, Jr. Sources: Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., Plant City Photo Archives, Inc. Oral History Project 2005, and East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner Program booklet, 1998.

STORY & PHOTOS BY FOCUS MAGAZINE STAFF

PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES ANNUAL GALA FAST BECOMING ONE OF PLANT CITY’S FINEST EVENTS

year going to James L. Redman. The only previous recipient of the award is David E. Bailey, Jr., who will present the award this year to Redman. Bailey received the inaugural Heritage Award at the 2004 gala held June 19, 2004.

he annual gala of one of Plant City’s newest non proﬁt organizations is rapidly becoming one of Plant City’s ﬁnest events. Plant City Photo Archives’ annual “An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories” has attracted much attention after only two years in existence, with its substantive

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 56

and extensive exhibits of historic photographs, ﬁrst-rate entertainment, a local-history oriented program, and a fun-ﬁlled photo trivia quiz. Set this year for Saturday, June 4, the annual event will feature the second presentation of the organization’s Heritage Award, this

Some features of previous programs include the largest photograph in Plant City, (a print of the railroad station 11’ wide by 4’ high), an exhibit of former Strawberry Festival Queens, an exhibit featuring “Couples” through the years, a special exhibit on Dr. Roy Ellis, and many more. This year’s event will feature special exhibits on “Friends”, genealogical pictures of one family covering over one hundred years, photos of Plant City in World War II, and a series on Jim Redman, this year’s

Heritage Award recipient, and several other outstanding exhibits. Additionally, the entertainment promises to be extra-special and David Chernault, whose performance at the ﬁrst event was met with overwhelming applause, will be returning with a selection of songs from Man of La Mancha, and other Broadway hits. This year’s “An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories” is Saturday, June 4, and begins with a champagne reception at 7 PM in the Red Rose Ballroom at the Ramada Inn Plantation House, 2011 North Wheeler Street, Plant City. Tickets for the black-tie optional event are $100 per person and interested parties may call the Plant City Photo Archives ofﬁce for information: 752.1442.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 57

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 58

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Hey, Look Me Over! Charmer of a home with 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, eat in kitchen and completely fenced. Perfect for budget minded home buyers or enterprising. Call Barbara Jean Kulyk on her cell for more details. 813-781-1915.

Fairway Fantasy! Great opportunity for Golf Course home with wonderful view. Very spacious 3,194 sq. ft. under air with a unique design. There are 3BD, 3BA, a versatile den/guest room/computer room, formal living and dining rooms plus family and bonus room! Call Barb Jean Kulyk @ 781-1915

Quick..Circle this ad! 2 are better than 1! 2 adjacent commercial properties previously used as a ﬂorist (1984) & a used car lot sales business (1957). Lots of potential bus./land uses, located on main thoroughfare of Burgeoning Plant City, FL. The 2 combined properties are over 1/2 acre. Call Barbara Jean Kulyk on her cell for more details. 813-781-1915.

Call John Walmsley. Evenings 752-4835 One of many we have for sale in 55+ park & family community.

This Beauty boasts new carpet & tile big 5BR/2BA w/ fresh paint inside & out new windows & doors listed @ $199,900 #103 NO HOA or deed restrictions. Call Davy Miles. 376-4444

Priced at Appraisal Price, wonderful location, waterfront, golf course and trees beyond. 4BD, 3BA home, large family room with ﬁreplace. Living room has French doors opening to screened lanai, heated pool & spa and outdoor kitchen. Sentricon & security system. 1 year warranty. $365,000. Call Janet Calvello @ 813-967-1939. #106

WALDEN LAKE EAST Located on a cul-de-sac this home has 3 beds, 2 baths and over just under 1700 Sq.Ft.La. Spacious screened lanai, wood deck, vaulted ceilings and peaceful ﬁreplace. Priced at $184,900. Call Shelton Keely @ 503-0999.

Sycamore Sensation. Cherry home with an impressive Sycamore Tree as itʼs sentry! Desirable features include 1,864 sq. ft. under air, 3BD, 2BA, formal living room/dining room combination. Family room complete with desirable ﬁreplace and efﬁcient kitchen, $185,900. Call Barb Jean Kulyk @ 781-1915.

Hunt No Further! 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage with loft and bathroom. Extravagant pool! Fully functional dark room too. Too many upgrades to mention! 2900 sq. ft. $479,900 To view, call Mac McGrath @ 813-752-2087

This decorative gem boasts custom cabinetry, beautiful ﬁxtures and chandeliers, crown moulding, pedestal sinks, hardwood ﬂoors, marble tile, kitchen island and a California closet in the master suite. This home, only steps to the Eagle Greens heated pool, golf clubhouse and miles of walking and biking trails is perfectly situated to enjoy all that the Walden Lake lifestyle has to offer. One that appreciates quality can appreciate the value! Call Pete Murphy @ 813-716-9037.

2 bedroom, 2 bath home in a condo association.Rental is $1250 per month, includes lawn maintenance and is in gated area of Walden Lake. Just call Janet Calvello 813-967-1939.

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Aston Woods! Exquisite Covington built home w/many custom features. 2,385 sq. ft. of exquisite LA. Impressive “Chicago Brick” facade w/coveted side load garage. Beautifully treed and landscaped 105x186 lot. Great room plan w/formal dining room. Wood burning ﬁreplace. Breathtaking island kitchen. A rare ﬁnd. $289,000. Call Carl “SOLD” Seigel at 813-759-1200

Absolutely Spectacular Innisbrook model w/resort style pool in prestigious Sutton Wood. Gorgeous 1/2 acre cul de sac lot. Over 2200 sq. ft. of LA. Formal living & dining. Family room w/ adjacent gourmet kitchen & windowed breakfast area. This home shines. Shows light & bright with hi-volume ceilings. $352,000. Call Carl “SOLD” Seigel at 813-759-1200

Own your own piece of paradise! 2001 3 bedroom, 5 bath Jacobson manufacured home sits on fenced acreage. Perfect for horses. Exquisite master bath w/garden tub. gourmet kitchen. Your own tranquil pond. Peaceful surroundings. $185. Call Carl “SOLD” Seigel at 813-759-1200

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Golf course frontage. Classic Cleveand Heights bungalow right on the golf course in historic Lakeland with an additional building lot. Upgrade existing or add a build a contemporary home on golf couse for occupance. Hundreds of possibilities. Existing home has 1900 sq. ft. of air conditioned LA. Enclosed and windowed Florida room overlooks party sized wood deck. $199,000. Call Carl “SOLD” Seigel at 813-759-1200

YOU SNOOZE, YOU LOSE... Great opportunity to buy NEW in Plant City. Still time to choose your colors. 3 bedroom, 2 bath. Quality block construction. Central heat and air. Wood cabinets, upgraded ﬁxtures, ceramic tile and ceiling fans. Great ﬁnancing options available. Starting at $150,000. Call Carl “SOLD” Seigel at 813-759-1200

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INVEST INVEST IN IN AA LITTLE LITTLE “PEACE-OF-MIND” “PEACE-OF-MIND”

Open Mondays Through Saturdays: 8:30-5:00 (Between Lakeland and Plant City)

2670 Highway 92 East, Plant City, FL

8 1 3 - 7 1 7 - 7 70 0 1505 S. Alexander St., Suite 102 • Plant City, Florida

813-752-3378

brokeandpoorpc@aol.com

PLANT CITY .....Plant City Crossings 2621 Thonotosassa Rd. .....752-6631

SEE OUR NEW OFFERS BELOW!

APOLLO BEACH ......................................... Apollo Beach 220 Apollo Beach Blvd ....................................... 645-1499 BLOOMINGDALE ...............Royal Oaks Shopping Center 3248 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd .................................... 654-8113 BLOOMINGDALE ................Just S. of Bloomingdale Ave. 3513 Bell Shoals Rd. .......................................... 645-9292 BLOOMINGDALE .......................................Village Center 4344 Bell Shoals Rd. .......................................... 689-9176 BRANDON ............................................... Oak Park Plaza 717 W. Lumsden Rd. .......................................... 654-9541 BRANDON ............................................. In Front of Publix 913 W. Brandon Blvd. ......................................... 684-4499 BRANDON ...................................... Lake Brandon Village 11393 Causeway Blvd. ....................................... 643-6944 BRANDON .....................................Brandon Center South 1983 Lumsden Rd. ............................................. 654-4423 FISHHAWK ........................................................ Fishhawk 16707 Fishhawk Blvd. ........................................ 654-7991 PLANT CITY ..................................... Plant City Crossings 2621 Thonotosassa Rd. ..................................... 752-6631 RIVERVIEW ................................................ Goolsby Point 11697 Boyette Rd. .............................................. 672-1832

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ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. No combining coupons. No same day service. Expires: October 15, 2005

25 OFF %

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. No combining coupons. No same day service. Expires: October 15, 2005

25 OFF %

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. No combining coupons. No same day service. Expires: October 15, 2005

SEFFNER .............................................North Grove Plaza 1515 Parsons Ave. South ................................... 684-5897

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VALRICO .................................................... Valrico Square 1985 E. Brandon Blvd. ....................................... 654-2324

Wedding Gowns, Comforters, Blankets, Alterations, Drapes

VALRICO ................................... Shoppes Brandon Farms 2511 E Brandon Blvd. ......................................... 643-4825

Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. No combining coupons. No same day service. Expires: October 15, 2005

Blackburn & Associates Realty LISTING HOMES FOR 2% or 4%

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • August 15 - September 15 • 2005 PG 64

�� LISTING HOMES FOR 2% or 4%

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Shangri-La Subdivision - This is a nice split ﬂoor plan home with 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms 2,356 square feet and features a large family room, screened in porch, in ground pool and sits on a large lot. The carport could be closed in to create a garage or an extra room. Please call today for more details.

Sugar Creek subdivision. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, 2 car garage home with an in-ground pool! The home features a wood burning ﬁreplace in the living room, fenced yard, shed and the garage is ﬁnished and air conditioned! Call today to see this great two stroy home.

Great 3 bedroom 2 bath 2 car garage home located in the Valrico Area. This home is over 1500 Sq. Ft. and has great vaulted ceilings, ceramic tile through out( excluding bedrooms) Features good size bedrooms, large great room, dining room and nice kitchen with nook. Call Tim today 813-451-8223.

Cute Country Cottage Home This 3 bedroom 2 bath home with a large front porch has approx 1300 sq ft and sits on an acre of high and dry land with a serene large pond The home is being completely gutted and remodeled. Donʼt delay call today!

3/2 With Many Upgrades. This impressive home with mature landscape, fenced yard, two tier deck and hot tub will allow your family to experience all Walden Lake has to offer. From the new roof... to the upgraded ﬂoors (ceramic throughout, except for Berber in the bedrooms) itʼs easy to see why this well kept home, offered for 192,500... will not be available for long. Call for a showing today. Jim Clark, 813-719-0091.

Great Investment property The home sits on 1 acres and has approx 3000 sq ft, 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms, a separate formal livingroom, dining room, familyroom with ﬁreplace and a 2 car garage. The home needs updating but at $175,000.00 you can not go wrong.

18 - 1 acre plus lots North of Plant City. Executive style home only. Featuring beautiful granfather oaks, paved streets and street lights. Call today for more details.

Immaculate Move-In Condition This is a nice 3 bedroom 2 bathroom room home and is situated on an acre of land. This home features an open ﬂoor plan with formal living and dining, a large nook in the kitchen area and a large screened lanai. The 2 car garage has the square footage of a 3 car garage. There are no deed restrictions - call today to for more details.

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Immaculate Picture Perfect Newly Renovated Country Style Home With Many Extras. This is a wonderfully well kept 4/2 split ﬂoor plan home in a nice quiet country setting featuring 1700 sq ft of living space, an oversized 2 car carport, plenty of windows, custom verticals, large bedrooms, large master with large walk -in closet and a private bath. The eat-in kitchen is all new with corian countertops & lots of cabinet space. In addition to the house there are 2 separate buildings both equipped with electricity. One is 36x66, this would make a great workshop, it is completely enclosed on all sides and is equipped with compressed air. The second building is 24x24 and has plumbing also! All this is situated on 3.89 acres of completely fenced pure beauty - featuring a pond, many beautiful Oak trees, pecan tree, blackberry patch, not to mention the 180 other plants that are all producing! Call today to get your own personal so you can sit on your nice screened in back patio and enjoy your own private piece of heaven.

LISTING HOMES FOR 2% OR 4% ��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 64

�� LISTING HOMES FOR 2% or 4%

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Great home with tons of square footage located in the Sugar Creek Subdivision. This 4 bedroom 2 bath 2100 square feet home is very nice with a fenced in back yard.

Excellent starter home with land - Just remodeled, this 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home sits on a little over a half acre corner lot. The owners have completely redone this home with all new rooﬁng, cabinets, carpet and vinyl. This is a must see - plent of possibilities with this home!

This is a very nice, clean two story home located in the Sugar Creek Subdivision in READY TO MOVE IN CONDITION. This home has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a great 2 car garage.

1.37 acres with oak trees and a small pond in Plant City. Call the ofﬁce for more details. (Lot 1 of 2101, Sam Allen Road)

Beautiful Country Living with this Large 4 bedroom 3 bath Home with 2,722 Sq feet on 3 acres which includes a lovely pond. This home features lots of storage, no space wasted! Downstairs you have a large family room with a stunning wood burning ﬁreplace, formal dining room, huge indoor laundry with wall to wall pantries, large master bedroom, a kitchen that opens to a nook with large bay windows overlooking the screened lanai and pool area.The downstairs bathroom also opens to the pool area. Upstairs are the other nicely sized bedrooms and a full bathroom.

Beautiful Custom Home on 1.5 Acre -Still under construction, 3000+ square foot home with AC, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a separate den. Great ﬂoorplan for families and entertaining. Hardwood ﬂoor, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, crown moulding and 10 foot ceilings throughout. Estimated completion date of July 2005.

Beautiful Custom Home on 1.5 Acres -Still under construction, 3200 square feet of air conditioned living space, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and a separate den in a split ﬂoor plan. Huge master suite with sitting area. Hardwood ﬂoor, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, crown moulding and 10 foot ceilings throughout. Estimated completion date of late July 2005.

3/2 home located in Sugar Creek Subdivision. This home features lovely vaulted ceilings, Ceramic tile throughout with carpet in the bedrooms and a security system. The owners have closed in the lanai area and added a/c vents for a little extra space. There has been alot of attention and love added to this home for extra comfort including the wonderful 30x20 deck off the back of the house. There are 4 fully bearing citrus trees located in the yard as well. Call to schedule a viewing it will not be around very long.

It Does Not Take 6% or 7% to Sell Your Home LISTING HOMES FOR 2% OR 4% ��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 65

Farm Credit of Central Florida, ACA A Customer-Owned Business

OLD FASHIONED VALUES MODERN DAY FINANCING

For your familyʼs real living room. Introducing Smart Solutions by Schrock.

Letʼs face it, the kitchen is where your family really lives. Thatʼs why your Schrock professional dealer now offers Smart Solutions. A unique cabinet collection that makes the most of your precious living spaces. Beautifully designed, they keep things exactly where you need them, out of the way but conveniently within reach. Stop in today and talk to us about Smart Solutions. One more way to love your kitchen. Spring Time Savings

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FARM CREDIT has been financing agriculture for over 85 years! Talk to one of our knowledgeable Loan Officers today to learn more.

Debbie Simpson Branch Manager

Real Estate Purchase/Refinance �� Operating Loans �� Equipment Loans �� Lot Loans �� Non-Farm Loans to Qualified Borrowers �� Livestock Loans �� Recreational Properties �� Student Project Loans ��

Tony Lopez Loan Officer

(813) 719-7442 or (800) 533-2773

Peggy Cook Consumer Loan Officer

Plant City@FarmCreditCFL.com

We are Young, Beginning & Small Farm Loan Specialists

911 S. Woodrow Wilson Street • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813-764-0259

COUNTRY MORTGAGES BY FARM CREDIT IS READY TO HELP YOUR DREAM BECOME A REALITY

Vonda Fulwood Lending Manager

We make loans for: �� Buying a Home �� Home Construction �� Home Improvements �� Refinancing �� Purchasing Manufactured Homes

Duane Mathis Loan Originator

No acreage limitation Stephany Brower Loan Originator

(813) 719-7341 or (800) 713-7550 CountryMtg@FarmCreditCFL.com

Visit our website: FarmCreditCFL.com

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 66

Competitive Rates

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Open ��

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Buying or Selling….Feel free to call anytime for an appointment.

Call for a Complimentary Market Analysis on your home

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1701 S. Alexander Ste. 104, Plant City, Fl. 33566

Direct: 813-431-4930

Office: 813-759-1200 • Email: jtalley3@ verizon.net

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 68

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 69

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 70

FOR SALE: $ 12,000.00

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Lots for Rent ��

Windward Oaks 301 Wilder Rd. Plant City FL 33563

813-752-9296

Fax: 813-659-9375

SHARON OURS MULTI-MILLON DOLLAR PRODUCER TEL:

763-0856

Good or Bad Credit? We have a Plan! �� INC

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Debbie and Stuart

813-783-9170 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 71

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� � � � � � � WOW!! What a wonderful country retreat! Located on 1.14 Acres under a canopy of grandfather oaks, this well maintained home shows beautifully. Seller states new roof installed in June of 2003 and an A/C duct system approx. 3yrs new. Like new appliances completely fenced w/ remote access gate. This 3 Bd/2Ba with bonus room, can be used as a formal dining, family room or as you may desire…Hurry this gorgeous country retreat won‘t last long at $154,900.#80

BABBLING BROOK BECKONS… With nearly 3 acres of gorgeous tropical living, 4BD / 2BA mobile home with huge laundry room, workshop, office and in-law quarters. With a bit of TLC this country haven can be yours! Price reduced to $99,900. #38

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NURSURYMEN, FARMERS, DEVLOPERS or HOME OWNERS! Don‘t miss a great income earning potential in this property previously an orchid nursery. 5.5 acres located in desirable Cork area, 3bd 2ba mobile home and small frame building. Greenhouses, supplies and orchid inventory is a ready made business for novice or pro. Must see this great potential, call for more info. $275,000.00. #48

BUSY ALEXANDER STREET 7.7 acres with frontage on 3 roads. Located north of the new YMCA site and Walden Lake, this property offers a lot of potential with a multitude of other uses! Priced reduced to $985,000!! #77

� � � � � � � “HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS” - and this brand new custom-built beauty will steal yours! Delightful foyer, oak stair case, beautiful hardwood floors offers warmth and coziness. Over 3700sqft, 4Bd, 2 full baths & 2 half baths with functional floor plan. Stone accent wall enhances huge Master Bd, gorgeous Master Ba with whirlpool, granite counters & custom tile. Gourmet kitchen w/ granite counters, top of the line stainless steel appliances. You ’ll love screened pool, closet space galore and relaxing fireplace. Situated on 3.13 beautiful acres conveniently located within minutes of I-4. This country retreat is just what you’ve been looking for at $459,900. #31

GREAT DEAL IN TAMPA… 3Bd/1Ba concrete block home with nice yard and fruit trees. Located close to Copeland Park in North Tampa. A must see at $104,900. #56

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MULTI-FAMILY DEVELOPERS… Don’t hesitate to check out this great investment! 10 acres zoned for 200 apartment units situated on 3 city streets. Sewer & water available. Located close to bus, shopping, etc. A great opportunity at $749,900. #3 AWESOME LOCATION! 1.4 acres of commercial property. Polk County Land Use LCC which allows a multitude of uses.307’of road frontage on Memorial Highway with additional 40’ of road frontage on Chestnust St. A stone throw to I-4. #61 AUBURNDALE… Highly visible, commercial, 2.85 acres, 2 separate parcels with 200 ft on Havendale Blvd. Great site for office, restaurant, retail and multitude of other uses. A great value at $400,000 #62

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STORY-BOOK SETTING! Custom -built 2 story, 4Bd, 3.5Ba nestled and secluded among 2.06 acres of oaks. Gleaming hardwood floors, welcoming foyer, beautiful oak staircase, great rm w/brick fireplace, gourmet kitchen w/upgraded appliances, wood cabinetry & lovely breakfast area. Delight to 8x18 detached workshop w/CH/A, water & phone & 2 car garage. Kids’ll love bonus room w/ built in bar. A Fairy Tale Ending for any Cinderella and her Prince and Priced at $346,900.00 Don’t wait - this won’t last. #58

RENTAL: This spacious 3/2, like new 2000 built home on a large corner lot in Royal Hills is ready to be called home. $1200/Month. #1

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WE CAN SELL YOUR HOME FAST!

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SEARCH STOPS HERE… Nearly new 3Bd/2Ba, 1566 sq. ft. Homes of Merit home, beautifully maintained, cathedral ceilings, great floor plan, lots of storage, a beautiful country setting w/ separate shed, 6‘ C/L fence and screen room- An inviting retreat priced to sell at $124,900. #2

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HOME GUIDE

WALDEN LAKE REVIEW

STORY BY KEN LAWRENCE-SENIOR WRITER

t has been said that “Spring turns a man’s or woman’s fancy to _ _______”. Bet you didn’t get the correct word! It’s GOLF and time for the second annual Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate golf tournament to be held, Friday May 13th at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. The tourney helps to raise funds for the Coldwell Banker Community CARES Foundation, which provides millions of dollars to charitable organizations across the State of Florida. The event will begin at 11:30am on May 13th with a PUTTING CONTEST, FREE RANGE BALLS and a 1pm SHOTGUN start. When all the ‘duffers’ have completed their 18, there will be a western Bar-BQ dinner in the club dining room with many prizes being awarded. Last year’s event was a ‘blast’. Call Cindi Clark-Realtor at Coldwell Banker

before May 9th to register. It’s for a very good cause.

The Polo Field The Walden Lake Community Association Executive has declined to sign an agreement with developer WCI to take possession of the Polo Field off Grifﬁn Blvd. East. Reason is that WCI wanted the community to take all responsibility for insurance and that included the times when the Tampa Bay Polo Club would use the facility. The bill would have been nasty, especially if a horse and rider were hurt. So the documents have been returned to WCI for review. In the meantime, Walden Lake residents can continue using the ﬁeld for sporting activities. While on the subject of the Polo Field, there have been numerous

complaints from parents of young children especially, that dog owners who take their animals to the ﬁeld for exercise, are not picking up the “DOG-DROPPINGS”. It’s a health issue and with reports of children becoming deathly ill from petting zoos, there’s no reason to believe that this could not happen from a dog.

working on their lawns or gardens. In fact, the appearance of some properties would indicate some owners don’t know a rake from a shovel. Whether you own the home you live in or are a renter, Walden Lake has strict rules about maintaining your property in reasonable condition.

Plant City ofﬁcials have been advised and will be patrolling the Polo Field and will issue ﬁnes to dog owners who do not pick up after their pets.

Odds ‘n Sods Retailers who sell gardening supplies are busy these days as homeowners stock up on supplies to make their landscaping a source of pride to them and the neighborhood. Not all Walden Lake residents have been

The Community Association will be monitoring properties that look ugly, send them a letter and if they do not comply, the Association could have the cleanup work done and send the owner a bill. If payment is not made, the Association has the legal right to place a lien on the home. It’s no joke! So take an hour or two and spruce up your landscaping. It’s also good exercise. Till Next Month!

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 73

NEW CONSTRUCTION 4 bedroom, 2 bath home w/large master suite and beautiful front porch. Great room plan with 2,147 square feet of living area, nice size lanai and 2 car garage on 1 acre that backs up to conservation area.

Priced at $259,900. Call 813-719-1919

Building the most value for your money! R.E. Broker & Certiﬁed Building Contractor CBC 1250540

Ofﬁce: 813.719.1919

Fax: 813.719.1920 • Cell: 813.478.9660 1906 W. Thonotosassa Rd. Ste 2, Plant City, Fl. 33566

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 74

HOME GUIDE

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

COURTESY OF SHELTON KEELY

THE ADVANTAGES OF HOME OWNERSHIP You’ve been renting for a while. You’ve enjoyed it. You have the freedom to move without the worry of selling a home ﬁrst. You don’t make repairs or pay property taxes. But something’s missing, a sense of security, or perhaps a gut feeling that your monthly rent payments are going into a bottomless pit.

interest on your primary and vacation home. This amount equals a big chunk of your total payments for the ﬁrst several years. • You can deduct the total amount of your yearly property tax bill. • If you reﬁnance to consolidate other debts, the interest on the home equity loan is tax deductible.

You think it might be time to take a step in another direction. You’re ready to buy a home, but you wonder--are there really advantages to owning a home?

HOME OWNERS HAVE MORE STABLE COSTS OF LIVING

TAX ADVANTAGES OF HOME OWNERSHIP • The US government allows tax incentives that make it possible for many homeowners to exceed the standard yearly deduction. Your state may offer the same beneﬁts. • A tax deduction for the yearly

• Monthly payments can change if property taxes and insurance go up, but it usually happens gradually. • Rental fees can sometimes be more unpredictable. APPRECIATION OF YOUR INVESTMENT No one can make any guarantees, but over time most real estate increases in value. If you are careful about

your selection, and you treat the home kindly, it will likely be worth considerably more in ﬁve years than it was the day you bought it. Your initial investment may be as little as 3% (or less) of the home’s sales price, but you are the one who beneﬁts from appreciation of the property. Not the bank, not the landlord. You. In Plant City over the last year our homes have appreciated nearly 20%. If you bought a home for $100,000 in the beginning of 2004, that home is now worth $120,000. Not a bad return on your investment over 1 year. YOUR EQUITY GROWS EACH MONTH Even though interest makes up a good portion of your monthly

payment, especially during the ﬁrst years, the amount paid toward the principal increase each month. Appreciation and equity work together, helping you use your initial investment to move into a home with more features if that’s what you wish to do. YOU ARE IN CONTROL The house is yours. You are the only one with the power to allow anyone to enter the house to inspect it. Paint it and decorate it in any way you wish. Put nails in the walls to hang pictures and artwork. Bring home a pet without asking anyone if it’s allowed. It belongs to you. Shelton Keely, Broker-Associate Walden Lake Realty, Inc. 813-752-2087

Bathroom Remodeling has become one of the most important decisions made by the homeowners to enhance the beauty of their home.

Largest Local Showroom In The Area Over 800 Tiles & Colors To Choose From

Carpet, Tile, Wood, Marble & Granite, Deco Tile, Listellos, Area Rugs, Artwork & Accessories, Shutters, Verticals, Blinds Custom Draperies, Wallpaper, Bedspreads & Cornices. • Spanish • Italian • Porcelain • Quarry

• Mexican • Slate/Domestic

Over 47 Years Experience

6 MONTHS SAME AS CASH 813-719-2246 1-888-858-3171

STORE HOURS: M-F 8:30-5:00 Sat. 8:30-3:00

www.TileBarnCarpet.com • 1103 Goldfinch Dr. • Plant City (Off Thonotosassa Rd)

Years ago, most contractors used small tiles in bathrooms, allowing more grout joints and adding problems to the consumer and the applications were performed over green board. Thankfully, the industry has moved toward larger tiles, eliminating excessive grout joints and replacing green boards with a better and more reliable product (Wonder Board). Also there is a beautiful line of listellos, tumble stones and inserts, to create an exceptional look to any of your rooms. If you need a free estimate for your bathroom or ﬂooring, please contact us or visit our showroom.

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 75

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION / COMPLETE DESIGN, MANAGEMENT & CONSTRUCTION SERVICES ��

IS THE HURRICANE STILL GIVING YOU THE BLUES? TAKE THE TARP OFF TODAY, CALL MILLENNIUM FOR PROMPT RESPONSE WITH QUALITY RESULTS

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: ��

OUR “FAMILY” IS COMMITTED TO YOUR FAMILY

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 77

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Basic

•Sweep •Vacuum •Mop •Dust •Clean Bathrooms •Wipe Cabinets & Doors ( Sanitize) •Clean Windows •Sweep Porches & Entry Ways •Make Beds •Do Dishes •Any Visual Straightening Needed

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• We Offer One Time Cleaning • References Available upon request • Licensed-Insured-Bonded

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NEW CONSTRUCTION -Beautiful New Neighborhood in Plant City. Many Exceptional Features in these AFFORDABLE HOMES. 3 & 4 Bedroom ﬂoor plans with 2 or 21/2 Baths. Pre Construction Pricing starting at $171,900. Call Natalie to Reserve Your New Home. 758-9586

Looking to Sell your Home

Confused by what it will cost you? Call Natalie for a FREE Market Analysis.

Rare Find in Walden Lake

Beautiful Custom Golf Course Home with Over 5600 square feet of living area in Prestigious Aston Woods. Enter into the Grand Foyer leading to the Large and Open Living Room with a fabulous wood burning fireplace and wet bar. Formal Dining Room, Office, Den and Media/Game Room. This magnificent home has 4 Large Bedrooms and 4 Baths. Screened Heated Pool & Spillover Spa. Truly a home built to entertain in. Call Natalie 813-758-9586

�� I will get top dollar for your home & review ALL THE COSTS with you before you list.

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New Homes on Scenic Homesites!

Strawberry Village

Spacious 3 & 4 bedroom homes on oversized, treed homesites within minutes of I-4!! 4 ﬂoor plans to choose from. Priced from the high $160s.

Robinson Farms

Kelly Abraham 813-240-5346

Quality built 4 bedroom homes to be completed in June. 1 Acre scenic homesites in southern Plant City, some w/pondviews. Priced from $242,900.

pkabraham@msn.com

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 79

Homeowners Mortgage Corporation II ��

Millions Of Dollars Available!

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ATTENTION HOMEOWNERS... Save up to $100,000 or more by refinancing your 1st or 2nd mortgage. We also finance up to 125% on your first and second mortgage.

Lowest fixed & adjustable rates on first mortgage up to 30 years. Lowest fixed 2nd mortgage rates or equity lines up to 125% of appraisal value.

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Gerald Danley, encourages you to give him a call. Specializing in 1st and 2nd mortgages, his firm offers fast, efficient and dependable service.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 80

�� Starting in the Low 100’s

Custom Built Computers Networking Web Design Web Hosting Voice Over IP Laptop Repairs On-Site Service & Consulting Vast Range of PC & Laptop Parts

FLAT RATE

ACER LAPTOP SPECIAL $899 LAPTOP DC Celeron 2.8 Gig, 256 MB ram, JACK REPAIR!! 40 Gig Hdd, DVD/CDRW Drive, 56k modem, 802.11 b/g wireless, 15” display, ATI Radeon Mobile �� IGP, Windows XP Home, Battery, �� DC Adapter, Touch Pad, 4 USB �� Ports. All The Bells & Whistles! �� www.pcustore.com

Voted 2003’s Best New Land Leased Community in the U.S.

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Plant City: Lakeland:

813-717-7717 863-668-8080

601 NORTH MICHIGAN AVE. PLANT CITY, FLORIDA 33563

9420 U.S. HIGHWAY 301 • DADE CITY, FLORIDA 33525 TOLL FREE: 866-264-4653 • LOCAL: 352-518-4653 H T T P

: / /

W W W

H I G H L A N D S F L

C O M

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 81

Clerical • Light Industrial • Skilled Trades

Specializing in

Temporary to Permanent Positions JOIN OUR TEAM Employee Beneﬁts:

• Sign On Bonus • Discounted Health Plan • Pay Card Option • Vacation Package • Direct Deposit

This coupon is good for:

8 HOURS FREE ON A 40 HOUR WORK WEEK

50% MARKUP ON PAYRATE

863-686-0255

225 S. Florida Ave, Ste. 2 • Lakeland, FL 33801

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 82

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CLERICAL ORDERS ONLY

813-877-5757

4511 Himes Ave, Ste. 268 • Tampa, FL 33641

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 83

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 84

BUSINESS & FINANCE

INVESTING

SUBMITTED BY EDWARD JONES

Financial Focus DEVELOP “GROWN-UP” INVESTMENT HABITS

hen you were a child, you probably acted like one. But when you’re grown, you “put away childish things,” as the old quotation goes. Unfortunately, many otherwise mature adults still approach investing in a rather immature manner - and it costs them.

Let’s look at some youthful behavior traits and how they manifest themselves as unfortunate investment techniques - and how you can avoid these problems and develop “grown-up” investment habits.

• Impatience - Patience is not in big supply among the juvenile set. When children want something, they want it now, and they are not interested in delayed gratiﬁcation. As an investor, though, you really shouldn’t expect to get big returns in a short period of time. You’re far better off building a portfolio of high-quality investments and holding them for the long term. You may encounter some ups and downs along the way, but your patience should eventually be rewarded.

Keep Your Balance

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• Lack of focus - Many children find it hard to concentrate on any one thing for long periods of time. They get excited about a particular game or activity for a while, and then they move on to another one. Some investors do essentially the same thing; they follow one investment strategy for a while, then they take some time off, then they follow a new strategy - the pattern goes on an on. If you want the opportunity to achieve investment success, though, you need to choose a strategy that works for you and maintain the discipline to follow through. • Pursuit of what’s “hot” - Children love the newest toys. In fact, if they see a playmate that has one of these “hot” items, they will let their parents know, in no uncertain terms, that they, too, would like to acquire this toy - quickly. Sadly, some investors also chase after what’s grabbing the most attention - in the form of “hot” stocks. This is not a formula for success; by the time you buy a “hot” stock, it may already be cooling off. And, in any case, the stock may not even be a good fit for your individual risk tolerance or for your diversified portfolio.

• Acting emotionally - Children often wear their emotions on their sleeves. If they’re happy or angry, they’ll show it - and they may act on their feelings. For example, if they’re delighted with a new toy, they may drag it with them continuously, never wishing to let it go. Interestingly enough, some adult investors often behave the same way. They may “fall in love” with a stock and never want to sell it, even if it no longer meets their needs; conversely, they may get tired of waiting for a stock to pay off and sell it before it has a chance to move up. To be a smart investor, you need to use your head, not your heart.

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Put your experience to work When we grow up, we learn from the mistakes we made in childhood. Investors can change the errors of their ways, too. By drawing on your accumulating investment experience, you’ll ﬁnd yourself making fewer and fewer miscues - and you’ll start making steady progress toward your important goals.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 85

BUSINESS & FINANCE

BUSINESS PROFILE

STORY & PHOTOS BY CONNIE DUBOIS

VACATION DREAMS MADE INTO REALITY

ONCE MAN’S QUEST TO HELP PEOPLE EXPERIENCE THE VACATION OF A LIFETIME recommended cruise by Spears based on his personal experience is the Alaskan cruise, with the St. Thomas cruise as a close second.

he bought this franchise. Prior to purchasing this franchise, Spears was a former full time pastor. Over seven years ago, he experienced a personal tragedy in which he lost his wife and teenage daughter. Spears now ministers part time and devotes his full time attention to his new business, wife Vicki and three children, Brittany, Lane and Ally. On most business trips you will ﬁnd the whole family in attendance. Spears works hard to ﬁnd the best price for dream vacations, like the one above

ick Spears makes people’s dreams a reality. Vacation dreams, that is. Spears is the business owner of Cruise One, a travel agency that deals with cruises, as well as land vacation packages. Cruise One is operated out of Spears’ home in Dover, Florida, and he has been in business since August 2003. Spears hopes to offer his services to other communities in the Lakeland and Dade City areas. Business has grown substantially for Spears in the two years since

Cruise One represents all cruise lines and cruise packages can range from 3 days to 108 days. The 108 day cruises are world cruises. Spears states that most purchased cruises are the three day cruises which venture into the Bahamas. Other cruises range around seven days and these include the Caribbean, Hawaii and Alaska. Some land packages include Sandals Beaches, Las Vegas, New York and major theme parks. Cruise ships offer a variety of interests’ related activities. These include ﬁtness centers, internet cafes, swimming pools and full casinos. Also included are rec-

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 86

reational activities, including dancing. On all cruises are the abundant food choices and acclaimed menus. With all the available food, most customers eagerly partake of the many recreational offerings. While helping others realize their dream vacations, Spears is also realizing his own lifelong dream. “I wanted to be in business for myself and see the world” states Spears. Like any good businessman, Spears personally travels on the same cruises that his customer’s book from him. Spears like to give his customer’s a ﬁrst hand accounting of what they can expect and help customer’s choose the right vacation for their needs. Land packages are strongly recommended by Spears for those choosing cruise vacations. He believes this gives his customers more value added insight to the area they are cruising. An Alaskan cruise was the last cruise Spears experienced and one he strongly recommends to customers. Hawaii is next on his list for later this spring. The most

Prices for cruises vary and depend on the time of year the cruise is planned. The level of stateroom a customer chooses on the ship is also a factor, as well as the length of time for each cruise. Alaska cruises are seasonal only and are offered only during mid May through mid September. Caribbean cruises are available all year long. Spears states the best time to purchase a cruise based on price savings is toward the end of August to mid January. This time is known as the low season. Also affecting price is the type of rooms onboard the ship. Interior rooms are most economical, whereas the price escalates in ascending order for ocean view rooms, balcony rooms and suites. Spears’ books cruises and vacation packages for businesses, families, civic groups and nonprofit organizations. Unlike other travel agencies, Spears includes all minor charges in his pricing. This includes port charges and government charges which can sometimes inflate the cost of the cruise booking beyond what the customer expects. Whatever the cruise or land package a customer chooses, Spears makes certain that the package chosen is the right one for the customer. He takes special care in understanding customer’s desires for a cruise and finds the best price that includes all the customer’s “dream” components. Spears states, “I am in business to make my customer’s dreams come true”. In this regard, Spears is successful making his customer’s dreams come true, and his dreams, as well.

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STORY & PHOTO BY KRISTEN TONEY

ST. LEO UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC COMPETITION Plant City High School TpatedheAcademic Team particiFebruary 25th in the St.

Leo University High School Academic Competition in St. Leo, Florida. Seventeen high schools throughout Florida were represented at the competition. Plant City High School tied for second in the public school division. The team, coached by American History teacher Robert Meredith, included students Ryan Napier, Will Anderson, Nia Davis, Jack Masterson, Zanah Minkara, Julie Latimer, Clay Bavinger, and Scott Cutshall.

From left: seated: Jack Masterson, Zanah Minkara, Ryan Napier, Standing: Mr. Meredith, Scott Cutshall, Nia Davis, Will Anderson, Julie Latimer, Clay Bavinger

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 88

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 89

SPORTS

STORY BY BOB HUGHENS

COUGARS CLAW THE RAIDERS

Coach Kenny White and his Plant City High School varsity baseball team played host to Coach Ron Fussell and his Durant Cougars Wednesday, March 9 at One Raider Place in Plant City. It was a defensive standoff for most of the game, but Durant exploded in the sixth inning for ﬁve runs and the Cougars walked away with a 9-0 win over the Raiders. Durant pitcher Carmine Giardina threw a complete game no hitter against Plant City and fanned 16 Raiders in the process. FIRST INNING Durant managed one hit in the top of the ﬁrst inning before

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 90

Raider starting pitcher Brandon Grifﬁn retired the side. Plant City started off the inning with a walk by Phillip Beauchamp. The next two batters struck out and Beauchamp was thrown out trying to steal second base to end the inning. Cougars 0 – Raiders 0 SECOND INNING The Cougars began the second inning with a walk by Josh Fussell, but he was thrown out at second when Tom Savino punched out a single in his atbat. Savino stole second base on a wild pitch and moved to third

base on a sacrifice fly by Chip Bowden. The Raiders dodged a bullet when Tony Garcia grounded out at first base. The Raiders failed to get any offense going and went three up and three down. Cougars 0 Raiders 0 THIRD INNING After two straight outs, the Cougars managed to pick up two walks before Eric Davis grounded out to retire the side. The Raiders again went three up and three down to end the inning. Cougars 0 – Raiders 0

FOURTH INNING Durant started off the inning with a walk by Josh Fussell, who managed to steal second base and then made it to third base on a force out at first by Chip Bowden. Griffin prevented a potential score from Durant, however, by striking out Jeff Wright to end the inning. The Raiders dodge another scoring bullet with some nifty pressure pitching by Griffin. The Raiders managed to put a man on base when Jake Hippler walked, but after a fly out and a ground out, Hippler was thrown out trying to steal second base

SPORTS

to end the inning. Cougars 0 – Raiders 0 FIFTH INNING After playing tough defense up to this point, the Raiders allowed Durant to muster some offense this inning. After starting the inning with a fly out, Lenny Carapella and Tom Nardelo put together back-toback doubles and Carapella was able to score Durant’s first run. Pitcher Carmine Giardina then squeezed out a single to drive Nardelo to third base and Eric Davis punches another single to load the bases with just one out. But Griffin showed some serious damage control when, with the bases loaded, he retired the next two batters to get out of the inning. After the first two batters were retired, the Raiders managed a base runner when Austin Jones walked, but got caught napping and was thrown out in a run down between first and second. Cougars 1 – Raiders 0 SIXTH INNING Coach White made two pitching changes this inning and brought in Matt Richardson and Hoyt Bochy to stop the offensive explosion, but this was the inning that turned the game around. Durant posted six hits and two

walks to put ﬁve runs on the board and put the game out of reach.

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The Raiders went through the inning with three straight strike outs. Cougars 6 – Raiders 0 SEVENTH INNING Durant continued their offensive surge by posting three more runs when Jeremy Fussell started off the inning with a single and managed to score on a passed ball. Lenny Carapella got on base when hit by a pitch and Eric Davis slammed a three run home run to end the scoring for the night. Durant shut down the Raiders scoring hopes when he fanned all three batters to end the game. Cougars 9 – Raiders 0 The Raiders took it on the chin tonight and take their record to 0-5 but you can tell that it’s only a matter of time before this talented group of young men put all the pieces together and start putting the wins on the board. Listening to the chatter in the dugout and the spirit each player displays, you know their day in the spotlight is coming. We will all be there when that day comes. Good luck Coach White and “GO RAIDERS”!!

It appears so easy to do your lawn work with the help of weed whackers, electric mowers and leaf blowers. But watch out! Many diligent landscapers soon have to visit their local Doctor of Chiropractic. The American Chiropractic Association(ACA) warns that even the most modern electrical equipment can cause back and neck pain if used improperly. Even more serious muscular sprains, strains and tears are possible. The ACA offers several suggestions on how best to use these lawn tools: • Place the strap that comes with the equipment over your head and on the opposite side shoulder to help normalize your center of gravity. • Balance the muscles being used by frequently switching the side on which you are operating the equipment. • Take breaks at regular intervals to avoid excess muscle fatigue. Consider electric-powered lawn tools. They usually are much lighter than engine-powered equipment. • Bend from the knees rather than the waist when picking up or putting down equipment. Keep it close to your body as you lift, not at arms length. • Include a warm-up/cool-down period with stretching exercises to help avoid injury. If you experience pain when using outdoor equipment, call your Doctor of Chiropractic immediately. As your professional we are trained and licensed to treat the entire neuromusculoskeletal system and can help people lead healthier lives by focusing on wellness and prevention. Call today for your appointment!

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 91

SPORTS

STORY BY BOB HUGHENS

“TEE” BALL CONTINUES TO ENTERTAIN P

opularity keeps growing for the Plant City “Tee” Ball League each week. The players are continuing to develop their skills in hitting, throwing and catching. As I watched a number of games this week, I was amazed at how well the youngsters had improved, especially in their hitting abilities, since day one. The teams have been playing some “make up” games this week due to the rainy weather we have had recently, as the league play continues throughout the end of May. After the regular season is over, the elimination tournament begins to determine the league champion. We will update you as soon as those dates are announced. For those of you who have not seen or heard of the “Tee” Ball League, it is comprised of ten teams of young men and women in the 5 and 6 year old age bracket. The ten teams are sponsored by local businesses in the

area. The teams and their sponsors are: the Volcanoes (Focus Magazine), the Lug Nuts (Lott-Mather), the Bats (Papa John’s Pizza), the Rock Hounds (G&W Maintenance), the Thunder (Tim Grifﬁn Construction), the Iron Birds (Elks Club), the Sea Dogs (Sparkys), the Rattlers (Excel Printing), the River Dogs (Copeland Steel) and the Blue Claws (Cherrys). We encourage everybody to come out and support theses players with your attendance at the games, as well as supporting the businesses that have so generously sponsored them. Games are played every Saturday morning, as weather allows, at Sansone Park between Park Road and Wilder Road, just south of Interstate 4. Watching these youngsters is so entertaining and such fun for the whole family, so come on out and enjoy the games. You’ll be glad you did!

“THE RATTLERS” (sponsored by Excel Printing) FRONT ROW (L to R) Conner Smith, Oliver Ruiz, Zachary Ford, Blaine Sorrells, R.J. Robinson. SECOND ROW (L to R) Corey Kozicki, Dana Watson, Matthew Fouts, Peyton Cantu, Luke Stine, Jayce Hardee. BACK ROW (L to R) Mgr Kyle Robinson, Coach Casey Hardee

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 92

“The Ironbirds” (sponsored by The Elks Club) FRONT ROW (L to R) Samuel Birchmeier, Anthony Campbell, Ryan Armatrout, John Zielinski, Austin Reed SECOND ROW (L to R) Patrick Dunlap, Christian Laird, Branden Hooks, Ethan Sparkman, Kyle Tears BACK ROW (L to R) Manager Drew Birchmeier, Coach Bo Dunlap, Coach Shawn Culpepper

“THE LUG NUTS” (sponsored by Lott-Mather) FRONT ROW (L to R) Bryan Becker, Luke Prestwood, Jack Ray, Joshua Wilson, Tanner Dearhart. SECOND ROW (L to R). Brett Becker, Kyle Courson, Bradley Penny, Jacob Smith, Joey Trotto, Charlie Ray. BACK ROW (L to R) Coach Troy Wilson, Coach Jamie Courson, Coach David Becker, Manager John Ray

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 93

HEALTH & FITNESS

SUBMITTED BY SUSAN M. OTT D.O. • SAND HILL BONE & JOINT

ANKLE SPRAINS A

nkle sprains. Almost everyone who has participated in athletic activity has experienced this injury. An ankle sprain is the most common injury sustained in sports. Typically the injury is sustained in an inversion type fashion, meaning the foot turns in, stretching the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. This is the most common type of ankle sprain and will be the focus of this article. Oftentimes the athlete will step in a hole on the ﬁeld, on another players’ foot or on a piece of equipment, sustaining the injury.

The principles of treating a sprain consist initially of R.I.C.E. Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. All of these modalities will help to decrease pain and swelling. Crutches may or may not be prescribed. Early weight bearing with bracing has become the usual standard of care.

The typical ankle sprain usually presents with pain and swelling on the lateral or outside of the ankle. A sprain is deﬁned as stretching or tearing of ligaments, in this case of the ankle. Sometimes there is bruising, as well. Bruising sometimes occurs, because when the ligament is injured it can bleed, manifesting itself as bruising. Typically the injured athlete will not have pain over the bone.

Now we all know someone who has sprained his or her ankle more times than we can count. Why does this happen? Basically, when you sprain your ankle you lose the signal between your foot and your brain as to where your foot is in space. This is called proprioception, which means position sense. What happens when your proprioception is off is, because your brain isn’t sure where your foot is in space, you step on a pebble and roll your ankle again. The more times

Fortunately the vast majority of these injuries heal without surgery.

you sustain the injury the more stretched out the ligaments can become and then the athlete is at risk for developing a chronic ankle instability which may be a surgical problem. Fortunately, once again, we can treat this conservatively with physical therapy for balance training to reestablish proprioception and strengthening. Return to play. The clock is always ticking for the injured athlete. It usually take 4-6 weeks to com-

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pletely get over an ankle sprain, but usually the athlete can return to play much sooner. The athlete should be able to bear weight, run and cut on the injured ankle without difﬁculty. Usually the injury is protected with taping or bracing initially. Rehabilitation should continue until the injury is completely healed, and return to play should be determined by the physician caring for the injury, and/or the team athletic trainer.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 94

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HEALTH & FITNESS STORY BY SHERRY NUEESCH

WHITE MEN IN BUSINESS SUITS I

ﬁrst want to state that I am not against all pharmaceutical drugs. There are many that are miracles. If and when I need them, I will be right there with my hand out. What I don’t like are the ones being shoved down our throats by an atmosphere of fear generated by a very powerful industry that I don’t think tells the truth.

I found this in a new book I have been reading. It’s called, “The Truth about the Drug Companies”, by Marcia Angell, M.D. She is the former Editor in Chief of The New England Journal of Medicine. It is a much-respected journal and she is a much-respected doctor. I trust what she has to say. I want to quote part of a paragraph in her book. On page 12 she writes, “According to a report by the non-proﬁt group, Families USA, the former Chairman and CEO of Bristol-Myers Squibb, Charles A Heimbold, Jr. made $74,890,918 in 2001, not counting his $76,095,611 worth of unexercised stock options. The chairman of Wyeth made $40,521,011, exclusive of his $40,629,459 in stock options.” What are you paying for your prescription drugs and how many of you do not even have health insurance? Again we are talking 74 million and 40 million, WITHOUT the stock options. There is something so drastically wrong with this picture. She also reports that in 2002 the combined proﬁts from the top ten pharmaceutical companies was MORE than the remaining 490 businesses in the top fortune 500 list, combined!!!! Let’s keep these thoughts but switch direction here a little. In the March 15, 2005 issue of the Tampa Tribune, there is an article concerning heart disease. They are reporting on research coming out of the Women’s

Health Initiative, a research project that involves 66,000 women. It is the same research project that exposed the dangers of pharmaceutical hormones. You know, those estrogens made from horse urine that women were convinced would solve all their health problems. The Women’s Health Initiative proved how BAD they were for women. Why had women been given this trash for 30 years BEFORE a comprehensive study was done? I’ll answer that, white men in business suits making millions. Let’s get back to the article in the Tribune. Here is yet another study proving inﬂammation as a larger indicator of heart disease than cholesterol levels. To quote Dr.Steven Nissen, a cardiologist, “It’s really a wake-up call for the profession. Heart disease was not created by cholesterol alone.” How many millions are those white men in business suits making on your cholesterol levels? The Framingham Heart Study is often cited as proof that cholesterol and saturated fats cause heart disease. This study began in 1948. After 40 years, the director of this study, Dr. William Castelli, had to admit: “In Framingham, Mass, the more saturated fat one ate, the more cholesterol one ate, the more calories one ate, the lower the person’s serum cholesterol…we found that the people who ate the most cholesterol, ate the most saturated fat, ate the most calories, weighed the least and were the most physically active.” Why were these ﬁndings never shouted from the roof tops? White men in business suits need to make millions. Let’s look at another health issue where the pharmaceutical companies are racking it up at our expense; blood pressure. Before the fall of

2003 if you had asked a doctor what a good blood pressure would be, they would have answered 120 over 80. Now it seems that that would be considered “pre-hypertension”. This new classification is being routinely hailed as a government guideline for blood pressure. I challenge any one of you to go to the Federal Register and find the “government’s” report on blood pressure guidelines. You know why you won’t find it? It is not there. There never was a government study or a report done. Where are these guidelines coming from? What this new guideline does is convert an additional 45 million healthy Americans into patients.

Who is proﬁting from these new guidelines? You got it, white men in business suits. Who can we count on to give us the truth? I, for one, will not believe much of what pharmaceutical companies have to say. I will not be led to ask my doctor about their drugs. I will not be led by their advertising. I do not believe they care one little bit about my health. I believe proﬁt is their God. I believe one of the greatest threats to America is white men in business suits who head up the pharmaceutical companies. As always, to your health, Sherry.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 95

EXTRA

STORY BY AL RUECHEL

WHY CHRISTIANS WERE DIVIDED ON TERRI! The story is troubling enough without the statistics painting an even more confusing picture. According to nearly every poll on the Terri Schiavo saga, between 65 and 80 percent of Americans felt the government had no business getting involved in this case. Fine. Now it gets gritty. Fully two-thirds of those surveyed by the New York Times, The Gallup organization, ABC News and USA Today, who call themselves Evangelicals, did not think President Bush or the government should have been involved in this family battle. What happened to Christian unity? Arenʼt we all pro-life? Donʼt we all read the same Bible? I personally know perhaps hundreds of born again Christians who were completely vexed by this story. They prayed for some kind of clarity from the Holy Spirit and were open to having their hearts changed. They searched the scriptures looking for those absolutes that would have drawn them into a position of compassion and understanding. They prayed for the families involved in this case. And mostly, they listened when folks expressed their positions, afraid they would be misunderstood if they expressed their own. Case in point, in March the pastor of Calvary Baptist in Clearwater, Florida, told his congregation that he had written a letter asking Judge George Greer not to return to the church. Judge Greer was the presiding judge in the Terri Schiavo case and had ruled in Michaelʼs favor on nearly every occasion. Many members of Calvary told me how shocked they were and appalled that their pastor would pass judgment on Greer this way. I asked them if they had registered a complaint with their pastor. No, they werenʼt sure that was appropriate. Judge Greer was a sinner like all

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 96

the rest of us. Itʼs wasnʼt his fault heʼs the judge who was assigned the Terri Schiavo case. Heʼs a judge who happens to be a Christian, not a judge who was placed in his position because he is a Christian. His job was to enforce and uphold the laws of the United States of America, not to make rulings based on what his own particular wants and beliefs may have demanded. Can you imagine what a mess we would have in this country if every judge had to consult with his religious guide before he ruled on a case? Yes, I want them to be Godly and answer to a higher power but I donʼt want them making up laws or bending them to ﬁt their theological doctrine! That is extremely dangerous. Christians were also divided in this case because of all the protesters. They saw all those signs and extreme hatred on display for the world to see and transposed that on Bob and Mary Schindler. Operation Rescueʼs Randall Terry was a publicity freak who generated interest because of his strong-armed tactics and semi-professional sign carriers that seemed to follow him from crisis to crisis. His job was to stir up the pot and thatʼs a turn-off to a lot of Christians. Many Christians did not buy the starving to death argument. Terri was alive because doctors surgically placed a tube into her stomach. Isnʼt that a medical procedure? Could she have survived without that level of medical intervention? Based on our understanding of this case as determined in the courts, the answer was no. Many Christians did not see this as precedent setting. They did not think the state would come rushing in and pull the plug on all disabled persons. They also did not think this was the right case to be arguing right to life

or right to die. It was too messy and complicated. Many Christians didnʼt like Congress or politicians getting involved in personal family matters. They believed disagreements were matters to be resolved in the courts, in the opinion polls, or in front of TV cameras at the Hospice in Florida. Many Christians saw the incredible level of distortions reported in this story. It made it difficult to side with the family when the level of accusations against Michael seemed to increase as the family and supporters became more desperate. Yet, here is the main reason I think Christians were divided. We are products of what we experience. Our faith, though founded in the word and the redeeming grace of Jesus Christ, is a product of what has happened to us in our lives with our families and friends and relationships. My friend, Glenn Beck, was pouring out his soul with the Schindlerʼs because he knew first hand what it was like raising a disabled child. He knew the power of miracles and prayer and doctors blowing their diagnosis. He could see his daughter in Terriʼs eyes. However, there may be thousands, perhaps tens of thousands who have experienced the death of a loved one from cancer, a tragic accident, a stroke or heart attack. They have stood by the bedside of a dying loved one as they took their final breath. They have seen a once vibrant body lying lifeless or paralyzed. They know the pain of letting go and the despair of not being able to do one simple, solitary thing. They have spent hours with God begging the inevitable be postponed. They have measured their faith against their doubts. They have had to settle for a quiet “no”, and then the confident

reassurance the Holy Spirit brings that our loved one is a breath away from a better life beyond the body. I know what youʼre saying, “This had nothing to do with Terri. Her story was different.” Not in the minds of many believers who couldnʼt paint Michael as the devil, Terri as the abused wife screaming inside her body to live, the suffering parents as Saviors, nor the courts as orchestrators of the greatest injustice since the cruciﬁxion of Christ. This was about the decisions many Christians have had to make on their own, praying their faith guided them according to Godʼs will. Finally, by in large, Christians wanted to be compassionate and follow the will of Christ in their life. They would have liked nothing better than for Michael to have given in and let the parents care for Terri. Yet, in the end, many born-again Evangelical Christians were humbly waiting for the Holy Spirit to change their notions about what was right and wrong in this case. Since there had not been this huge outpouring from all levels of Christianity, I can only conclude that the Holy Spirit had been unable to separate us all from our experiences, or didnʼt want to separate us from those forces that had molded us into the Christians we are today; ﬂawed, vexed, divided and still seeking the truth in this Schiavo mess, and more dependant on Christ than ever before.

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COSTCO

WINN DIXIE

KASH’N KARRY

CIRCLE K

OUR MAXIMUM PRICE SAVINGS

2687 $2671 $2988 $2962 $2774 $2375 $613

Marlboro

Dorals

N/A N/A N/A N/A $2353 $2075 $278

GPC

2199 $2144 N/A N/A N/A $1975 $224

Now located behind the new Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino ORIENT ROAD

OT EL H OL

Florida State Fair Grounds

SM SH OK OP E

SCT-56376 Smoke Shop(4.25x5.25) 1

HILLSBOROUGH AVENUE

DRAPER PLACE

PARKING LOT

NG KI AGE R PA AR G

1/31/05, 3:48:52 PM

blog is basically a journal that is available on the web. The activity of updating a blog is “blogging”, and someone who keeps a blog is a “blogger.” Blogs are typically updated daily, using software that allows people with little or no technical background to update and maintain the blog. Postings on a blog are almost always arranged in chronological order with the most recent additions featured most prominently. All of this Blogging could cause a guy to loose his blogging mind. This is just another example of how important communication is to all of us. Therefore, I have decided to give you more insight into what a blog really is, who keeps them, and why.

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Many of the blogs out there on the Internet are basically personal journals for all to see. People who keep these blogs are lonely, depressed, or just feel they need to share their vast knowledge with the rest of the world. Seriously, there are some blogs that are relevant, but most of them are just gibberish from people who have way too much spare time on their hands. Although Web logs (blogs) are currently used by only a small number of online consumers, they’ve garnered a great deal of corporate attention because some of their readers and writers are highly inﬂuential. One example was at the Democratic National Convention in 2004, in which 30 bloggers were admitted as credentialed press. While they provided amusing and insightful anecdotes to traditional media, these new-age reporters missed the chance to

be the public’s eyes and ears where the real action took place: in the more than 200 sideshow events. Blogging serves its best role when it produces stories that the mainstream press cannot cover. There is much to be said for blogs and the people who read them. However, the reality is how many people are going to be reading blogs posted by people they don’t know or haven’t heard of. It just seems like another distraction from our daily routines and I personally don’t have much time to accomplish my own tasks, much less read about someone else’s. I guess we’ll just see where all of this blogging goes, and I wanted to let you all know that if you have a burning desire to start your own blog, you can do this at www.blogger.com. Blogger.com is a site started by Google where you can start your free blog and interact with other bloggers. If you are like me, you’ve been wondering what blogging was, and now you know. I just don’t know how many more words the English language can take…. 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.pcuvoice.com

EXTRA

RE-SCREENING SERVICE STORY BY BRIAN WEST PHOTOS BY HONDA

2005 HONDA ACCORD HYBRID • Pool Enclosers • Screen Doors • Screen Rooms • Lanais & Vinyl Windows • Screen Entry Ways

ou’ve likely noticed the rising price of fuel lately. I ﬁlled up my tank this week and regular unleaded was $2.19 per gallon. Realizing it was time to complete the next auto-review, and thinking about those high prices for fuel, I quickly decided now might be a good time to test-drive one of the new hybrid vehicles. If you’re not familiar with the concept, hybrids combine the best of both worlds: performance and efﬁciency by combining a gasoline engine with the added power of an integrated electric motor. I know what you’re thinking, “Hybrid? I’d love to have the fuel economy of a hybrid car, but I also want performance.” Believe me, this car performs. In fact, the new Accord Hybrid is rated at 255 hp. How does that sound? On the exterior, there are some subtle differences between the Accord Hybrid and the traditional Accord, but differences you would likely never notice unless someone pointed them out to you. For example, the front headlights have a molded bump, for lack of a better term, on the front of the headlamp. The small bump forces air to be pushed to the side of the car rather than over the top. The wheels are slightly different, made from a lightweight alloy; they are

constructed to be even more fuelefficient by improving the aerodynamics. Remember, everything about the design of a hybrid is efficiency, reduced emissions and maintaining performance when possible. The hybrid weighs less than a traditional Accord, although an official weight has not been released. To help in this area, the engineers took out the spare tire. You hardly need them anyway, right? In place of the tire, they’ve provided a can of tire inflator, kind of like fix-a-flat. This is designed specifically for the tires on this vehicle and it provides enough stability to safely drive the vehicle to have the tire repaired. On the interior, the car also has some minor differences from the traditional Accord. For example, the dashboard has more instrumentation to show the driver what is going on with the vehicle. Power seats are only available for the driver and a sunroof is not available at all, more efforts to cut down on weight. Starting the hybrid is just like the traditional Accord, in fact, the hybrid technology doesn’t begin working until after a short warm-up period, which is just a few minutes. The Honda calls their hybrid system Integrated Motor Assist (IMA).

My ﬁrst indication that this car was any different was when I came to a complete stop, Todd Abernathy, Sales Consultant, had to point out to me that the car has turned off. The air conditioner was still running and even without the radio on, a driver really has to pay attention to notice. As soon as the driver releases the brake, the engine turns back on. Again, the idea here is to cut out all the fuel typically wasted in a traditional vehicle. Honda claims the vehicle will achieve 38 mpg, but admittedly, drivers will have to make a conscious effort, mostly during starts. I think the best word I could use to describe the overall performance of the hybrid is seamless. The MSRP of the model I drove was $30,655. I was very impressed with the car’s performance. If the driver was never told the car was a hybrid, it make take quite a while for an average driver to actually notice the difference while operating the vehicle, but a very short time to see the savings in your wallet. If you’re interested in ﬁnding out more about the Accord Hybrid, visit Regal Automotive Group in Lakeland. They are located on North Lakeland Hills Blvd., on the north side of Tiger Stadium and carry Pontiac, Oldsmobile, GMC, Honda, Jeep, and Acura.

FREE ESTIMATES

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Plant City Transfer Station 402 N. Frontage Road Plant City, Fl 33567

813-752-9700 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 99

EXTRA

STORY BY & PHOTOS BY KRISTEN TONEY

RIVER RANCH

A PLACE OF FUN AND RELAXATION FOR ALL AGES With 1,700 acres worth of ranch land, not to mention the surrounding 70,000 acres that are used for horseback riding, camping, and other adventures, there is plenty of room for excitement for the whole family. Choose from either a regular hotel room or a The beautiful country church stands out along the main road through the ranch cottage to settle down in, unless, of course, you happen to have your RV with you. Then you are welcome to select a site for your vehicle on The professional rodeo is held in this arena each Saturday evening Enjoy camping in your RV right on the water at River Ranch the water, in the woods, or along the variety of even closer to being lost forever. o the far east on Highway 60, trails available. After Siegel took ownership, the nestled among numerous lakes ranch was completely restored and plentiful woods is a place Upon arrival, there is plenty of by adding many more amenities, undiscovered by the majority of time to take advantage of the many which are still being expanded at Floridians. Whether you are a activities offered. Like any resort, this point, and the result is the only single person wanting to get away there are tennis and basketball timeshare dude ranch in the world. and have a fun weekend, a young courts, a pool, Jacuzzi, and the Now, River Ranch is one of 30 family with children who love to other normal relaxing pastimes to resorts owned by Siegel, and also be entertained, or a retired couple enjoy on a break from the normal one of his favorites! exploring new areas with your RV, routine, all of which can be acRiver Ranch has something for cessed by golf carts made available “This is Florida’s best-kept secret,” everyone! to the resort-goers. But why not commented Leroy Mason, Genrent an airboat and explore the Kiseral Manager of the ranch. “Most In November of 2001, David Siegel simmee River for an afternoon or people do come here to ride horses decided to create a dude ranch to even take an exciting ride through and go to the rodeo, but anyone can add to his already numerous real the marsh area on the biggest easily spend a whole week here and estate ventures. At this point, River Swamp Buggy you’ll ever lay eyes not run out of things to do.” Ranch was close to bankruptcy, and

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 100

on! Be sure to stop at the Western Store and purchase an outfit or two, and don’t forget to send some notes from the post office to say hi to your neighbors back home! Maybe you would rather spend the entire day fishing on a nearby lake, or playing the golf course. No problem. Make sure the kids are involved in an activity such as riding ponies or making crafts, then head out and enjoy yourself! A trap and skeet range is also available for resort-goers, not to mention a petting farm for the little ones, miniature golf, and even nature trails. Attend the little country church on Sunday morning, or even hold your wedding ceremony there, allowing your guests to enjoy the ranch while they celebrate your marriage! One of the largest attractions at the ranch calling to cowboys and those who love them from as many as 150 miles away is the professional rodeo. Held every Saturday night, it’s an exciting time for those retired, parents, children and young people alike! After over an hour of riding and roping, head over to the family style saloon for food, music and line dancing. If the kids aren’t into it, they are welcome to attend the block party, held especially for them right outside the saloon. As if there is not already enough to be involved in at the ranch, there are many plans for upcoming expansions. More water sites for RV’s will soon be added and the golf course will be enlarged, not to mention the hanger-homes which will soon be built to complement the already existent airport. For more information on the ranch, go to www.wgriverranch.com, or call (863) 692-0727.

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108 NE Drane Street • Plant City, FL 33563 • (813) 752-6085 Patriciasdesigns@aol.com

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Why should your company have Taylorʼs Forklift Repair & Service your lift? We at Taylorʼs Forklift Repair & Service believe that service is the back bone of our business. Robbie has an average of 20 years of mechanical experience, Which is where the time is saved when you have an experienced mechanic diagnosing the problem you save $ on labor. No wild programs or promises. Just honest work, by honest people.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 101

SCHEDULE

4/18/05 Mon @ Daytona Beach HawgsDaytona Beach, FL 4/22/05 Fri @ River City RageSt. Charles, MO 5/8/05 Sun KISSIMMEE KREATURES @ Lakeland, FL 5/15/05 Sun CINCINNATI MARSHALS @ Lakeland, FL 5/20/05 Fri @ Rome RenegadesRome, GA 5/28/05 Sat @ Billings Outlaws Billings, MT 6/4/05 Sat @ Miami MoraysMiami, FL 6/11/05 Sat MONTGOMERY MAULERS @ Lakeland, FL 6/18/05 Sat @ Kissimmee KreaturesKissimmee, FL 6/25/05 Sat @ New Jersey XtremeEast Rutherford, NJ * Home games in all caps. All Monday-Saturday games begin at 7pm and All Sunday games begin at 4pm. For Season Ticket Information, please call: 863-687-8110

Lakeland ThunderBolts 1316 George Jenkins Blvd. Lakeland, Fl 33815. 866.671.0111

www.lakelandthunderbolts.com

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

STORY & PHOTOS BY SOPHIA DEDON

BAKER ST. CAFE

GOOD HOME-STYLE COOKING

ave you ever walked into a fast food restaurant, looked at the menu and just been disgusted by the greasy food you know you are about to consume? Do you wish there was a better place to eat breakfast or lunch for a cheap price without having to inﬁltrate your body with the grease and calories of the unsatisfying burger you will soon devour?

Well, thanks to the hometown restaurant, Baker Street Café, there is a solution. As I walked in, I was immediately approached by the smiling face of Julie, the waitress who is always around to greet the costumers and make them feel welcome. She has been with the Baker Street Café for many years now and is already on her third owner. The place just wouldn’t be the same without her. I then sat down and after I ordered my drink, I looked around to do a little people watching. Occupying

all the other tables and booths were families and friends sitting down to a meal and socializing. There wasn’t the rushed feeling of waiters and waitresses rushing to and fro, left to right, back and forth, always in a hurry to service their many tables of people. Rather, the people that walked into this restaurant knew they could sit down to some good hometown, southern cooking and utilize all their time with each other. Rather than coming to the door simply to hear how long you would have to wait to be seated, all customers sat down to the table of their choice and were immediately able to begin ordering. The next step was to decide with which foods I would satisfy my hunger. I went to the Baker Street Cafe during lunch, so my options ranged from hamburgers to salads and hot sandwiches, cold sandwiches, plus plenty of sides and soups to accompany. For that day, the special

was spaghetti with meatballs and there was a soup of the day. I asked Julie what the most commonly ordered meal was because that would be what most of the readers would want. I ended up getting a cheeseburger, onion rings and a side salad. As I bit into my burger, not only was it scrumptious, but all that came to mind is how much more appealing it was than a fast food burger that had been prepared in a matter of seconds. By the time I was ﬁnished my stomach was stuffed to its maximum and my hunger was more than satiated. The cafe closes in late afternoon, so they prepared a dinner menu for those interested in ordering their food and just picking it up and saving it until dinner, or for those with an early appetite. They surely know what southern cooking is because they have country fried steak, pork chops, grouper ﬁngers, and plenty of other dinner options. If you are

in the need for breakfast, they will take care of that, too. You can stop into the Baker Street Cafe for eggs cooked the way you like them, sausage, bacon, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, hot cakes, French toast and everything else that you may desire in the early morning hours. Breakfast is 7:00-11:00 a.m. everyday, except on Sunday, when it is served all day. If you ﬁt into the category of being tired of the rushed life and just want to stop for a good home-cooked tasty meal, then stop at the Baker Street Café. You won’t feel rushed, but they will certainly get your meal to you quickly. As the name describes, it is located on Baker Street, just before Thonotosassa road. The prices are low and the service is great. Treat yourself to a pleasurable experience and dine-in at the Baker Street Café.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 103

Domino’s

Double

Deals!

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Plus tax applicable. Deep Dish may be extra. ©2003 Dominos Pizza, LLC. Not Valid wih any other offer. Valid at participating stores only. Prices may vary. Our drives carry less than $20.00. Expires 5-15-05

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PLANT CITY

204 W. Alexander St.

759-9424

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The Apple Tree Family Restaurant

�� Offer valid only before 11am. Must present coupon.

�� 2x2x2 Special $2.79

• 2 eggs • 2 pancakes • 2 bacon or 2 sausage (patties or links) No Substitutions Expires 05/15/05

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2218 Jim Redman Parkway Plant City, Florida

707-8109

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 104

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TACITURN

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�� • Tee times taken 3 days in advance after 1pm • No Denim/Collared Shirts Required • Soft Spikes or Spikeless Only Beautiful facility available for Weddings, Receptions, Banquets, Private Parties and Meetings

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 105

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON

THE DIAMONDS RETURN TO PLANT CITY spills over into fantastic harmony on stage, drawing the listeners in and leaving them an evening that will not soon be forgotten. It is inspiring to see four different individuals and personalities make it blend together in a great musical work of art.

he Ramada Inn is still bringing in fantastic entertainment to Plant City. On Saturday night, April 2nd, The Diamonds were the main feature at the Red Rose Dining Room. This was a return trip for them, but they still gave it their all, just as if it was their ﬁrst time here. That says so much for their love of music and performing. The Diamonds took the crowd down memory lane with some of the most loved songs of the 50’ & 60’s, such as “In My Room.” As the night progressed, the invitation to hit the dance ﬂoor was open for couples who wished to dance the night away to such greats as “The Stroll.”

The Diamonds have been wowing audiences with their music since 1956, when they had 10 hit records, including songs such as “Why Do Fools Fall in Love?” Since that time they have sold more than 40 million records and continue to wow audiences wherever they go. They have 15 Top 40 Singles with Mercury:

Little Darlin’, The Stroll, Silhouettes, Why Do Fools Fall In Love, Words of Love, Church Bells May Ring, Zip Zip, Kathy - O, She Say (Oom Dooby Doom), One Summer Night, Walking Along, Love Love Love, Soft Summer Breeze, KaDing Dong, and High Sign. They also have two Top Country Singles: Just A Little Bit and Two Kinds of Women. Their cassettes and compact discs include: Alive and Well, Diamonds Are Forever, Silhouettes from the Past, We’re Still Rockin’, Silver Bells And Diamonds, Radio Heroes, and Classic Cuts. Almost everyone can relate to the music of the Diamonds. They contribute their longevity to the diversity of each one of their talented members. Tenor Bobby Poynton is a graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University and pursued a career in acting before joining The Diamonds. Bass singer Jerry Siggins previously pursued a career in acting and is the newest addition to the group. The lead singer Joe Finetti started out in

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 106

a singing career at Gonzaga University while studying trombone and drums. He continued with his career in entertainment with well known jazz groups and as a jingle writer in Indiana. He also has experience writing, arranging, and producing albums and TV and radio recordings. Baritone singer Gary Owens has been with The Diamonds the longest. He was a former journeyman bass player in Los Angeles while in college at California State University, and eventually earned his degree in Business Administration from University of Southern California. It is clear to see that all of the members of The Diamonds are not just talented performers, but are educated, as well, which is an important asset to this business. The Diamonds also share a special chemistry that

If you have never had the opportunity to enjoy their music, they will be returning to the Red Rose Dining Room later in the year. If interested in ﬁnding out more about The Diamonds, you can log onto www. thediamonds.cc. Here you will also ﬁnd their schedule for the next few months. The Ramada Inn Plantation House always does their best to make sure they provide quality entertainment, as well as a wonderful dining experience. The Red Rose Dining Room also has a fabulous lounge where you can spend a great evening enjoying drinks and music. Here is the upcoming entertainment schedule: John Anderson and Fanny Grace - April 23 (Red Rose Ballroom) The Rat Pack Too - April 23 Tommy Mara & The Crests - April 30 The Rat Pack Too - May 7, May 21, June 4, June 18th - Bill Pinkney & The Original Drifters - May 14 Frankie Ford - June 11 For more information, log onto www. ramadaplantation.com.

Everyone’s Invited

Call For More Information

(813) 643-4532 Don’t Miss The Boat! FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 107

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�� 109 W. REYNOLDS PLANT CITY, FL 33563

Kim A. Allen (813) 719-8922 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 108

POWERHOUSE MORTGAGE & HOME INSPECTIONS “Professional Residential Mortgages & Property Inspections”

• Free Estimates • Free Application • Free Credit Analysis • Free Mortgage Analysis

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Call Now! 813-764-0550 www.powerhousemortgage.net

302 South Collins Street in Historic Downtown Plant City

To advertise your hometown business here call

813-707-8783 Historic Downtown Plant City

ANTIQUE DISTRICT I

Olde Village Shoppes 108 S. Collins St. 752-3222

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm (Over 10,000 Sq Ft)

Frenchmanʼs Flea Market . Mini Mall 102 N. Collins St. 754-8388

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm (Over 10,000 Sq Ft)

Both locations open till 9pm the third Saturday of each month for the

Strawberry Classic Car Show

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 109

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT MOVIE REVIEWS BY SHERRI ROBINSON

THE RING TWO - PG13

Starring: Naomi Watts, David Dorfman, Elizabeth Perkins, Sissy Spacek

Rachel Keller and son, Aidan are starting a new life in Astoria, Oregon, after their horrifying experi-

ences in Seattle. They think all is well until a mysterious death occurs and a tape is involved. Could it be happening all over again? Is Samara here and what does she want? Will Rachel be able to stop her? The movie content is not the only thing

that weirded me out. The character, Aidan, was just creepy the whole time. Even in the end I still didn’t know whether to trust him or not. The animal scenes were wayyyyyy freaky, too. I will never be able to think of deer in the same way again. If you are a fan, go see it, otherwise you might want to make another movie choice. Rating 4 for creepy, ghastly and extremely scary.

BEAUTY SHOP - PG 13

Starring: Queen Latifah, Alicia Silverstone, Kevin Bacon

Gina Norris (Latifah) is trying to create a good life for herself and her daughter as a stylist in an upscale salon after her husband passes away. Her boss (Bacon) is nearly impossible to please and

conﬂict erupts when she decides to give the shampoo girl a chance to use her styling talents with a customer during his absence. She is determined to make her dream of having a shop of her own a reality when she quits her job. Appearances from big stars like Andie McDowell make the movie fun to watch. Of course, Latifah is wonderful. Beauty Shop is the female remake of Barber Shop. This movie is delightful and funny. Rated 3

BECAUSE OF WINN DIXIE - PG

Starring: Anna Sophia Robb, Jeff Daniels, Elle Fanning, Dave Matthews, Cicely Tyson

Life was hard enough growing up without a mom, but when your dad

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Manatee Bay Cafe Sandwich Shop

COUPON

�� Coupon good at both locations. Expires May 15, 2005

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 110

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT is a minister and you move all the time, it can be nearly unbearable. A trip to the local market had never been so much fun for India Opal (Robb). Chaos has just broken out and a dog is running loose in the store. What’s a girl to do when a dog needs saving, except to name him and claim him. Now India has to convince Preacher, her father (Daniels), they need to keep him. He ﬁnally gives in, but says it’s only temporary. That’s all the time India and Winn Dixie need to bring this sad little town of Naomi, Florida together. The people will see they need each other more than the orphaned Winn Dixie needed a home. “Because of Winn Dixie” is my favorite movie of the month. It is full of heart, warmth, and hope, just what the world needs. If by chance you miss the movie, get the book it was based on, Because of Winn Dixie by author Kate DiCamillo. The book was a New York Times bestseller and the recipient of the prestigious Newberry’s Medal in 2001. Everyone will love Because of Winn Dixie. Rating 5

ICE PRINCESS - G

Starring: Michelle Trachtenberg, Joan Cusack, Kim Cattrall, Hayden Panettiere, Trevor Blumas

Cassey Carlyle (Trachtenberg) just wants to ﬁt in. Unfortunately, no one appreciates her talent for

scholastic brilliance until life cuts her an incredible break. She just might get to live her dream of becoming a champion ﬁgure skater. Her future is on the line when she has to decide between a promising college career at Harvard or what her heart is in...skating. ALL

of the odds are against her, but she knows she has to try, no matter what it cost her. Anyone, young or old who watches Ice Princess can not help but leave with more than just a warm feeling. It was inspiring and encouraging. It is a movie that makes its audience contemplate what is important in life and how following your dream can bring rewards far beyond winning. Rating 5

DVD/VHS RELEASES May 3 National Treasure Phantom of the Opera May 10 Assault on Precinct 13 Alone In the Dark May 17th Son of the Mask Team America: World Police White Noise May 24th The Aviator Are We There Yet

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 111

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ABC Pizza 114 N Alexander St 752-5146

Catﬁsh Country 712 S Collins 752-0126

El Rincon Mexicano 4109 State Rd 574 754-0620

Maryland Fried Chicken 315 N Alexander 752-9200

Alexander’s Café at S Fla

Chancy’s Catﬁsh Shack 2509 N Park Rd 754-3433

Fred’s Market Restaurant 1401 W Dr MLK Blvd 752-7763

Norma’s Ybor City Cuban Shop 1305 Baker St E 754-6557

Checker’s 2405 Jas Redman Pkwy 759-0151

Frontage Sports Bar & Grill Days Inn 1301 S Frontage Rd 752-0570 exit 168 & 169

Baptist Hospital

301 N. Alexander St. 757-8451 Anna’s Restaurant 3410 Baker St W 754-6215 Apple Tree 2218 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-8109 Applebee’s Neighborhood

Grill and Bar

1204 Townsgate Ct 719-1500 Arby’s Roast Beef Restaurant 1909 Frontage Rd S 719-3321 Arby’s Roast Beef Restaurant 201 Alexander St W 754-4881 Baker St. Café 1801 W Baker St (Hwy 92 W) 717-9785 Beef O’Brady’s Sports Pub 2418 Jas Redman Pkwy 757-0300 Bobs Sports Grill 226 Alexander St W. 719-8187 Bogey’s Restaurant 2001 Clubhouse Dr 752-1171 Boston Market 238 Alexander St W 759-2652 Brooklyn Bridge Deli 1309 S Collins St 659-3621 Branch Ranch Dining Room 5121 Thonotosassa Rd 752-1957 Buddy Freddy’s Restaurant 1101 Goldﬁnch Dr 754-5120

Cherry’s Bar & Grill 1701 S Alexander St W 764-8818 CiCi’s Pizza 211 Alexander St W 659-3400 China King Restaurant 2410 James Redman Pkwy 754-8098

Grandpa Johnsons BBQ 1305 Dr MLK Jr Blvd 759-0009 Heavenly Sinsations Inc. 1803 Jas Redman Pkwy 717-7512 Hong Kong Buffet 213 Alexander St W 764-8255

Orange Blossom Tea Room 106 Evers St S 759-2247 Outback Steakhouse 1203 Townsgate Ct 759-4329 Papa John’s Pizza 1829 Jas Redman Pkwy 719-7300 Pesos Mexican Restaurant 2006 Reynolds St W 752-8841

Sonny’s Real Pit BarB-Q 1102 Goldﬁnch Dr 757-3118 Strawberry Hut Sandwich Shoppe 1505 Wheeler St N 752-3779 Strawberry Paradise 4511 James L. Redman Parkway (813) 737-3866 Subway 2305 Thonotosassa Rd 754-4550 Subway 2403 James Redman Pkwy 754-4878 Subway 2209 N Park Rd 659-0288

China One 1862 James Redman Pkwy 707-8898

Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs 208 N Alexander St 752-6113

Pizza Hut 2316 James Redman Pkwy 752-8222

China Palace 1106 Collins St S 754-7145

Hungry Howie’s - #200 2424 Hwy 92 E 764-0363

Pizza Moni 2607 Thonotosassa Rd 759-6664

Church’s Fried Chicken 703 Collins St S 754-5200

Joann’s Country Kitchen 12650 McIntosh Rd Thonotosassa 982-0739

Plant City Restaurant & Drive-in 2005 W Baker St 752-9202

Twistee Treat 2301 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-9303

4109 State Rd 574 754-0620

Kazbor’s Grille 2212 James Redman Pkwy 752-2700

Ponderosa Steak House 1914 Jim Redman Pkwy 754-1129

Wafﬂe House 1201 Townsgate Ct 707-0190

Dairy Queen 1902 W Reynolds 752-2236

Kentucky Fried Chicken 2305 Collins St S 752-0437

Popeye’s Famous Fried Chicken & Biscuits 2005 Frontage Rd S 757-9742

Westshore Pizza 1701 S Alexander St 754-5600

Denny’s Restaurant 2001 Frontage Rd S 752-3338

La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant 113 Prosser Dr W 659-3940

Quiznos 1818 James Redman Pkwy 719-2999

Linda’s Crab Shack 202 Reynolds E 754-0492

Ramada Inn Red Rose Dining Room 2011 N Wheeler St 752-3141

Lin’s Express 2307 Thonotosassa Rd 719-6066

Shanghai Chinese

Curbita Inc (Only speaks Spanish)

Domino’s Pizza 202 Alexander St W 759-9424 El Buen Gusto Michaocano 3414 Baker St W 759-6635 El Mirasol Bakery Cafeteria 1419 Collins St S 752-2108

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 112

Long John Silver’s Seafood Shoppe 1805 Jas Redman Pkwy 752-1717

Restaurant

805 Collins St S 759-0518 Snellgrove’s Restaurant 109 S Collins 752-3652

Taco Loco Restaurant 14672 Dr MLK Blvd 659-0916 Tim’s Café 10903 Lithia Pinecrest Rd 737-4026

Whistle Stop Café 102 S Collins 752-7340 Woody’s Bar-B-Q 203 Alexander St W 754-3229

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�� Gourmet Deli & Bakery

� Starting Jan. 10th

Serving Breakfast

Bagels • Mufﬁns • Danishes Eggs • Sausage • Bacon and Breakfast Sandwiches Now Serving: Soups • Sandwiches • Desserts • Salads and much more. Our Boars Head Meats and Cheeses are 2-3 dollars cheaper a pound than Publix.

� �� Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-2pm • Sunday Closed

Phone/Fax

813-717-7512

1803 Jim Redman Parkway, Suite B Plant City, Fl. 33566 Phone or Fax orders For Quick Pick-Up

Drop in bring a friend our menu has something sure to please everyone!

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�� YOUR LIVE MUSIC HEADQUARTERS FEATURING :

• Murphy’s Law • Big Wiggler • Cope • John Schmidt group • SubHarmonic

NED W O REN DJ OLA OSCEIKE M Hospitality Since 1897

DJ & Karaoke • Happy Hour Open Noon-2AM Every Day COMING SOON :

• matt winter • back alley blues band • Freight train annie • howlin buzz blues band

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 113

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 114

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When mom says the kitchen is closed...

... you can count on “Grandpa Johnsons” Lunch Dinner •

Family Style Meal Packages Call Ahead Drive Thru Catering

759-0009 • Tues - Sat • Closed Sun & Mon Located on the Florida State Farmers Market • I-4 exit (Alexander St.) South One Mile

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

April 16th Saturday There will be a Teen Dance (ages 13-17) at the Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Recreation Center, from 7:00 p.m. to midnight. April 21st Thursday The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is having a Business After Hours at Lupton’s Boggy Bottom BBQ Ranch. The entire family is invited. There will be food, including ribs & chicken, baked beans, cole slaw, potato salad, garlic bread, dessert and assorted beverages. The whole family can enjoy horseshoes, merry-go-round, seesaws, waterfalls, nature trails and hay rides. It starts at 5:00 PM. Lupton’s is located south on route 39 to the trafﬁc light at Keysville Road. Turn left and look for the sign one half mile on the left. Call the Chamber ofﬁce at 813-754-3707 to reserve your place.

crafts for kids. Artisans who are interested in selling their crafts may contact Rachel Wooten or Tammy Wilder at 757-9353. Site reservations are $10 each. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be sold, along with cotton candy, snow cones and lots of other goodies. Donations are still being accepted toward Fun Day events. Please contact Rachel Wooten or Tammy Wilder at 757-9353 for more information. Funds raised will help support students through the purchase of equipment, computers and other items as needed. April 23rd Saturday Strawberry Square Dances: 4401 Boot Bay Road, Plant City - Allen Snell and Good Times Band for Plus Square. For more information, call 813-752-0491, or visit their website at www.ﬂoridadaanceweb. com/strawberry.

by a fabulous pool-side dinner provided by Outback Steakhouse. Awards and prizes will be presented during the evening activities. Call Jack Vasconcellos at South Florida Baptist Hospital at 813-757-1286 to register.

Community College. Tickets are available at Hardee’s Fashions, 1501 North Wheeler Street (Route 39), Plant City. Phone 813-7544929.

April 30th Saturday

Bike Fest in Historic Downtown Plant City from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. Great family fun. Come and see hundreds of motorcycles on display.

The Plant City Family YMCA will be holding its annual “Teen Lockin” from 7:00-11:00 p.m. Open to ages 12-18, this event gives access to play racquetball, basketball, indoor soccer, volleyball and swim (pool open 8:00-10:00 p.m.). Cost is $7 at the door and includes pizza, chips and sodas. Contact Stephen Rossiter at srossiter@plantcitygov. com or 813-757-9166 for more information. The Florida Opry is featuring an all gospel show at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center. Show begins at 7:00 p.m. General admission is $10.00 and reserved seating is $12.50. For additional information, contact Myrle Henry at 813-752-4094. May 4th Wednesday

April 22nd Friday Scrappers Delight at 1705 C Jim Redman Pkwy. Plant City is holding a Scrapper’s Social. It starts at 6:30pm and lasts until midnight. The cost is $8.00. For additional information, please call 813-7546755. First Kids Night Out at the Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Recreation Center (pizza and drinks from 6:00-7:00 p.m.) from 7:00-11:00 p.m. Cork Elementary School is celebrating its fourth annual Fun Day from 4:30 pm- 7:30 pm. The school is located at 3501 N. Cork Road in Plant City. The community is invited to come enjoy an evening of fun and games to help celebrate over 125 years of academic excellence at the school. There will be a children’s Fun Run with registration beginning at 4:30 pm for grades K-5, a silent auction, a Fire Truck demonstration, inﬂatables, games, prizes and much more. New this year will be the addition of local entertainment, arts and crafts sales, and make-and-take

Plant City Dolphins Youth Football and Cheerleading open registration at 2602 East Cherry Street Plant City, FL - Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. For more information call Buddy Bennett at 813-7527479, or visit our website at www. plantcitydolphins.com. Registration is being held from 9 am to 2 pm. April 29th Friday Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is hosting the annual Children’s Classic Golf Tournament. Play as an individual player or bring your own team to support this event. Your participation will help ensure the continuation of a wide variety of children’s services in our community. Programs supported include South Florida Baptist Hospital pediatric health programs and screenings; the Wellness on Wheels program, the Kiwanis Club’s support of scholarships and the Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s support of scholarships. Fred’s Market Restaurant will provide a lunch. Then 18 holes of great golf, followed

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 116

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is holding a Community Expo from 3 to 7 PM. It will take place in the Florida Studies Building at Hillsborough Community College, 2003 E. Cherry Street, Plant City. Admission is free and it is open to the public. There will be over 50 local businesses showing off their new products, services and information. If you have a business and are interested in exhibiting at this event, call the Chamber ofﬁce at 813-754-3707. There will be free food samples, door prizes and giveaways. May 5th Thursday National Day of Prayer: Breakfast at 7:00 a.m., noon services at City Hall, and evening services at 7:00 p.m. Call Reverend Norm Blanton at 752-4671 for locations and details. May 5th – 6th Thursday - Friday Plant City Entertainment presents “Lend Me A Tenor” at Hillsborough

May 7th – Saturday

First ever Plant City Black Heritage 5 on 5 “Hoop It UP” Basketball Tournament for ages 16 and up to be held at the Dr. M. L. King Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. M .L. King Blvd. Plant City. Time is to be announced. Registration deadline is April 22nd. Limit 7 people on a roster; cost is $50 per team. Double Elimination, 1st & 2nd place team trophies awarded. For more information, contact Dee Sears at 863-687-8890 or La’Tosha Lewis at 813-757-9196. May 9th Monday Program on Butterﬂy Gardening by Master Gardener Pat O’Shea at the Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McClendon St., Plant City Fl, 33566. Program begins at 7:00 pm. For further information, please call 813-757-9216. May 13th – 14th Friday – Saturday Plant City Entertainment presents “Lend Me A Tenor” at Hillsborough Community College. Tickets are available at Hardee’s Fashions, 1501 North Wheeler Street (Route 39), Plant City, Phone 813-7544929. May 14th Saturday Fourth Annual Margarita Ball at the home of Rick & Di Lott. This great event starts at 7:00 PM. Tickets and information are available by calling the Chamber ofﬁce at 813754-3707.

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Walker Plaza, 617 N Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 ATM Available at Customer Service TECO Payments Accepted

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 117

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • April 15 - May 15 • 2005 PG 119

Gated Equestrian Community

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8 1 3 - 7 0 7 - 1 2 2 1

Build on your lot or ours.Contact Jimmy Carapezza