FOCUS PC 04-02 March 2005 by Floyd Publications

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PLANT CITY EDITION

FEATURE 40-45

This month we explore Plant City’s heritage with some history of our town, accompanied by some photos from the Plant City Photo Archives. We compare that with just a few offerings from our city in present day, along with some projections from one “in the know” in the promising future.

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW 49-52

FOCUS talks with Betty Chambers, a true Plant City icon in the truest sense of the word. For the last 50 + years she has set the bar high as an example in community involvement and volunteerism. With her true love of people and God, her enthusiasm for helping and for living is contagious.

DID YOU KNOW? 56

The Plant City Photo Archives takes a look back at some other fires that have plagued Plant City, which have nearly destroyed the city more than once.

HOME GUIDE SECTION 59-83

This section is dedicated to buyers, sellers and owners.

ON THE COVER: Betty Chambers, see her story on page 49. Photo by Mike Floyd.

SPORTS 90-93

We take a look at the Plant City Tee Ball League, made up of youngsters 5 & 6 years old. We will be reporting monthly on the teams in Plant City’s Little League. In addition, we report on the Plant City High School Varsity Baseball’s fundraiser held at and sponsored by Outback Steakhouse in Plant City.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT 103-119

This month the FOCUS Food Critic takes us inside a local Sparky’s gas station, where you will find Giraldo’s original Cuban sandwiches. In addition to a quick lunch, they also offer platter sizes of their Cubans, stuffed potatoes and devil crabs. We also give you a report on the concert performance at the Florida Strawberry Festival of Michael W. Smith, who was a knock-out as well as an inspiration to the crowd. He displayed his talents as a well rounded musician, wowing the festival crowd not only with singing his Christian songs, but with his instrument playing, as well. 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 Kathy Clark kclark@floydpublications.com Suzanne Gross sgross@floydpublications.com Kim King kking@floydpublications.com Julie Rose jrose@floydpublications.com Art Director Phil Ransdell philrand@floydpublications.com Graphics Stephanie Burlingame sburlingame@floydpublications.com Distribution Tony DeVane Photographer Harry Jeffcoat Billy Friend Staff Writers Sherri Robinson, Brian West, Sophia Dedon, Kristen Toney Ken Lawrence, Lynne Warren Contributors Sherry Nueesch, Gil Gott, Mac McGrath, Jim Brown, Shelton Keely, Michael Cameron, Al Cohen,

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed to 10,000 homes. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to our main office 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. Plant City, Florida 33563 or you can e-mail them 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.

PUBLISHED BY

floyd publications, inc. 702 West Mlk Jr. Blvd. Plant City, Florida 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

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

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

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

PRESS

On behalf of the entire Focus family, I would like to extend the most heartfelt sympathies to all those who lost their businesses and a part of their lives in this fire. It is indeed a pang for the entire Plant City community to see this piece of our history and identity left in irretrievable rubble. I would also like to thank all the fire departments and fire fighters who responded to our assistance in trying to preserve as much as possible of our downtown district. As for the lady who turned herself in as responsible for the fire, thank you for having the courage to assume responsibility for your actions. I can only find pity for the weight of guilt that you will have to bear for the rest of your life. It is regrettable that this disastrous event occurred just as we prepare for our annual Strawberry Festival celebration. But I feel certain that Plant City will again prove her strength of perseverance and determination. I believe the same attitude that has brought so many to passionately pursue revitalizing our downtown area will be the same drive that shows our town to prevail over this momentary setback. We have so much to appreciate and be thankful for and I see no reason for our celebration to be daunted by this unfortunate incident.

BRIAN WEST

Brian West

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

702 W. Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

LYNNE WARREN

Lynn Warren

702 W. Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.099

Jeff Neely Managing Editor

SOPHIA DEDON

Sophia Dedon has been writing for Focus for the last Sophia Kristen ToneyDedon Brian Neil WestFisher year and says her favorite part is the people she gets

Along with writing for Focus Magazine, Lynne Warren, a lifelong Staff Writer resident of Plant City, is also a local business owner. After spending 19 years with one corporation, most recently as the manager of a technical support group, Lynne felt it was time to focus on other interests.

Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer to meet. Since moving to Plant City seven years ago, Sophia says the enthusiasm of the people here has made her realize what a great town it is. “I never really had a home or someplace that meant something to me until I moved to Plant City,” Sophia said. “Plant City has become my home.”

She and her husband, Michael, own Warren Tree Sales, Inc. Lynne’s only child, R.J. Worrell is 18 and will be Dr. graduating this May from Seffner Christian Sophia’s love forJr.people service to W. Jr. Dr.Blvd. M.L.K. Blvd. is evident in her W. Jr. Dr.Blvd. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. 702 W. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. 702 W. Dr. 702 M.L.K. 702 W. Dr. 702 M.L.K. Plant City, Plant City, FL 33563 Plant City, FL 33563 FL 33563 Plant City, FL 33563 Academy. Writing has always come naturally to Plant City, others, as is FL her33563 faith in God. She was tremendously 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.09 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 Lynne, as does interacting with people – so she says impacted by a mission trip to Haiti last summer, and she greatly enjoys the creative outlet that writing for hopes to work in missions later in life. Currently Sophia is a senior in the IB program at King High Focus provides. School. She plans to attend Gardner Webb University in Boiling Springs, N.C. next year, and study communications, along with either theology or religion.

He is married to the former Jennifer Harber and they have one child, Elizabeth Ann, who is 14 months old. Brian attending Florida Southern College 702 W. is Dr.currently M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 pursuing a degree in Human Resource Management. 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 He is involved in various community activities but spends most of his volunteer time with the Plant City Lions Club where he is currently the Second Vice President.

As the sun rises on a new day in Plant City, we are reminded that change is a part of life. Even still, working together we can learn to adapt together. May it be that we all contribute toward a better community. For now, here are the stories. Enjoy.

Brian has been writing for Focus since April of 2004 after submitting a story about the Plant City Lions Staff Writer Club’s 75th Anniversary celebration. He has lived in Plant City all his life and works full time for Publix Super Markets, Inc. as a specialist in the Human Resources department.

Kristen Toney

PRESS PRESS

CONTRIBUTORS

PRESS

In the later hours of Feb. 21, the face of Plant City’s historic downtown district was literally changed forever overnight. I was out for a drive coming along Collins Street when I first saw the billowing smoke. Approaching closer, I saw flames of untamable fire reaching what had to be at least 100 feet into the blackness of the night air. Businesses and storefronts definitive of the heart of Plant City and her culture were quickly being consumed in the merciless rampage of the blaze.

Lynn Warren

PRESS PRESS

hen the Focus staff gathered for our monthly meeting to discuss stories for this month’s issue, we had no idea what would transpire between then and now. Among other pieces, we decided our feature story would be a comparative look at the Plant City of yesterday and today. It is a case of tragic irony that this would unknowingly be a foreshadowing of the catastrophic events to come.

We have a number of stories in this issue that spotlight some of the fun and exciting events at the Strawberry Festival. Our Spotlight Interview speaks with Betty Staff Writer Staff Writer Chambers, a lady who has personiﬁed the attitude of betterment and growth in Plant City. There are additionally a number of other stories that again point out the positive in our town.

LOCAL

Bill Heard Chevrolet generously contributed $10,000 towards the purchase of the playground at Walden Lake Elementary School. By doing this, they have earned the status as a Platinum Sponsor. Students shown in the picture are: Christian Rivers, Josh Sanders, Cameron Schneider, Garrett Johnson and Abby Miller. FOCUS Magazine will be doing a feature on all the volunteer orginizations in Plant City next month. If your volunteer orginizations would like to be included in our article, please call 707-8783 ext. 28, or email linda@ﬂoydpublications.com and we will make sure your volunteer orginizations gets coverage. Thank you for all your support. The Plant City Chapter of the Habitat For Humanity is looking for new members. They currently meet the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Winter Visitor Center on Dort Street in Plant City at 7:15 pm. All of their work is done with the help of volunteers. They are looking for volunteers to help with fundraising, family selection, sponsors, partners and building. They help families that want to help themselves. They are a nonproﬁt organization and all of their proceeds go towards buying lots and building homes in Plant City.

They are governed by Habitat For Humanity of Hillsborough County and supported nationally by Habitat International. They currently have one lot, a family and the home is being sponsored by Capital One, and they will start building this winter. The lot is located at Drane St. and Carey. If you or someone you know would like to give their time, land or make a monetary donation, or would like to volunteer to help build, please call 239-2242 and ask for the volunteer coordinator, or 813-7070331 and leave a message. Your call will be returned. Local Optimist Club Oratorical Contest Using the topic “My Hero Is ...”, local students worked to develop their oratory and delivered their speeches to members and guests at the Optimist Club of Plant City Oratorical Contest. The event was held on Monday evening, February 21, at the Plant City Recreation & Parks Department administrative conference room. Amanda Williamson placed ﬁrst in the girls division and Ashlyn Robinson was second. In the boys division, Rusty Hartline was the winner with Trevor Persaud as runner-up. Both Robinson and Persaud are students at Tomlin Middle School in Plant City while Hartline attends Plant City High School and Williamson is home

schooled. Judging the contest were Faye Harvill, Rick Norman and Dean Snyder, all members of the Plant City Toastmasters Club. The contest is open to area students under the age of 16. The Plant City winners will advance to the Zone level competition in early April in Mulberry. From there, Zone winners advance to the North Florida District level and possibly on to National competition. The Optimist International Oratorical Contest gives youngsters the chance to speak to the world. According to Optimist.org, more than $150,000 in college scholarships is awarded annually from this program. First conducted in 1928, this is the second most popular Optimist International program. Nearly 2,000 clubs participate in this program each year. The Optimist Club of Plant City is a strong supporter of youth activities in the Plant City area. They co-sponsor the Recreation & Parks Department youth ﬂag football, basketball and soccer programs, along with the annual Easter Egg Hunt and July 4th Celebration. In addition to the Oratorical Contest, the club holds an annual Law Appreciation Week and Youth Appreciation Week, supports Steppin’ Stone Farm and area needy families during the holidays,

as well as providing four college scholarships to seniors from Plant City High School. The Plant City Police Department has been awarded accredited status by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA). CFA Chairman Andrew J. Scott, III, formally presented the Certificate of Accreditation to Chief Bill McDaniel at their Commission meeting on February 9 in Kissimmee. They were also awarded national recognition by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. By receiving this award, the Plant City Police Department has taken the first step toward national accreditation. Undergoing the voluntary state accreditation and national recognition processes provides an agency with a quality assurance review and encourages intense self-scrutiny, resulting in more efficient and effective daily operations. Becoming accredited by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation and recognized by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies are considered significant accomplishments and this status is held in high esteem by the criminal justice community.

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

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

STORY BY SOPHIA DEDON PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SUMNER FAMILY

SMALL TOWN BOY, BIG TIME WAR WYATT SUMNER DOES HIS DUTY

s the country sends mixed messages to the troops with certain media forces condemning the war in the east and other outlets praising them, the fact still stands that we have boys over there risking their lives. One such individual is the home-town friendly face of Wyatt Sumner. Sumner graduated from Plant City High School in 2002. After graduation he realized he needed plans for his future. He looked at his options and joined the Air Force in December of 2002. While he was in basic training and tech school, America declared war. He spent the next two and half years in training, preparing him for what he would be

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encountering. In October of 2004 he left for Iraq. He worked on Balad Air Force Base about 45 miles outside of Baghdad as an Aircraft Hydraulics Systems Journeyman through January 2005. He dealt mostly with planes bringing in supplies. Although he was always on base, he still felt his life was in danger. There were over 80 attacks made directly on the base while he was there. The boys on the base still had much interaction with Iraqis, because they held small task jobs around the base, such as serving the food. He admitted that they often felt threatened by the Iraqis around base. In reference to his time spent over there, Sumner said, “It was an eye opener, different from anything

else I’ve experienced. It made everything I had watched on TV so real.” Sumner returned to America in January and says that he would not trade this experience for anything and would do it all over again. He said he feels like they are doing something good. Sumner is currently stationed in Washington near Seattle and his advice to those who know troops overseas is to show your support. They enjoy calling home and it makes it easier for them to make it through knowing they have support back home. We appreciate the work and time invested by our troops and boys like Wyatt Sumner make us proud and deﬁnitely have our support.

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 8

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37836 Meridian Ave. Historic Dade City • Ph: 352.521.5700 104 E. Reynolds St. Historic Plant City • Ph: 813.754.0990 23801 Hwy 27 Lake Wales • Ph: 863.676.6295 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 9

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

STORY BY BRUCE RODWELL

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Are you the committee person in charge of publicity for your organization? If so, the Chamber has a COMMUNITY CALENDAR that enables various groups and organizations to check out dates to avoid conflicts. Simply call the Chamber office at 813-7543707 and have your date placed on the calendar. By doing this, you can check to see if there is another event scheduled for the same date/time as your event. If this is the case, perhaps the date of your event can be changed. • How about that STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL? Hard to believe this event has been going on for seventy years. The theme this year was “Seventy Years of Fun and Still Jammin”, and it sure was! Isn’t that new Expo building just great? The technology competition with the IGX video experience was a new treat this year. The Festival just seems to get bigger and better with each passing year. This year’s entertainment was great. Hope you stopped by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce booth to say hello. Our booth volunteers always look forward to meeting and making new friends. • Our Chamber is in the process of starting a new program that takes us to various businesses in the Plant City area. Our members want to learn more about what these businesses do, how they function, learn about their products and understand what needs they may have that we might be able to assist them with. The first of these visits took place on February 25th. Twelve members toured the CF INDUSTRIES facility located just off route 39 about 10 miles north of Plant City. We learned that they are one of North America’s largest interregional cooperatives, owned by and serving eight regional farm supply coops. Through thousands of member-owned sales outlets, the

Company’s nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers reach over one million farmers and ranchers in 48 states and Canada. There are some 450 employees at the Plant City facility. The annual payroll totals over $30 million dollars. As a result of the facility being located here, over 2,100 indirect jobs are provided in Plant City and surrounding area. The Chamber’s next visit has already been scheduled. On March 24th. the group will tour the Weyerhaeuser facility located at 2402 Williamette Drive in Plant City. • This was mentioned in last month’s column; however, I want to call your attention again to the wonderful programs being offered by the PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT GROUP and taking place at Hillsborough Community College, 1206 N. Park Road, Plant City. On March 18 and 19 at 8:00 PM and March 20 at 2:00 PM, a musical stroll through 25 years of past performances will be presented. An added feature of this ﬁrst program will be a complimentary wine and cheese reception one hour prior to the show. All this for $15.00 per person. On May 6, 7, 13 and 14 the group will present “Lend Me A Tenor”, a comedy written by Ken Ludwig. Adult admissions are $10.00, students (12th. grade) and seniors 55+ are $8.00 and members admissions are $7.00. For more information on this show you can call Director, April Smith at 813731-0615. And the next show should prove to be a real treat…Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast”. Performance dates are July 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23 at 8:00 PM. A Sunday matinee will be presented on July 17th. at 2 PM. Prices for this great show are the same as the performance of “Lend

Me A Tenor”. Information can be obtained by calling Director, Jennifer Jackson at 813-757-0425. • Myrle Henry has put together some great entertainment for the PLANT CITY FLORIDA OPRY. These shows are presented at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center. On March 19th Jack Greene and Candi Carpenter will perform. On April 9th. the very popular Southern Star Bluegrass Band takes the stage. On April 30th. Myrle has arranged an all gospel show. General admission is $10.00 and reserved seating is $12.50. For additional information contact Myrle at 813-752-4094. • The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce 8TH. ANNUAL STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW will take place on April 16th. This is a great family event and one you will not want to miss. The Herb Sheldon Variety Band will perform at 6::00, 7:00 and 8:00 PM. • We want to keep you healthy…. don’t forget our wonderful SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL offers free blood pressure checks every Tuesday from 1 to 2 PM. Doctor’s recommend you have your blood pressure checked on a regular basis. • On April 10th. the First United Methodist Church will present another concert in its FINE ARTS SERIES. Doug & Linda Tidwell will share a unique blend of original contemporary music, humor and real-life stories. The concert will be held in the Wesley Centre at the corner of Reynolds & Evers Streets in downtown Plant City. This free concert gets underway at 7:00 PM. • Here are two dates to put on your calendar…April 15 and 16. These are the dates of the annual RELAY FOR LIFE OF PLANT CITY. The event takes place at Plant City High School. This is a community gathering where everyone can

10 participate in the ﬁght against cancer. Teams of people camp out on the athletic ﬁeld and take turns walking or running around the track. Each team will have a representative on the track at all times during the event. These relays are an overnight event, up to 24 hours in length. Jodi Smith is Chairperson for this event. You can call her for information at 813-754-3703.

MARK YOUR CALENDER March 18 - Call to Prayer 2005 at Cornerstone Center, Noon to 1:00 PM. March 19 – H.B. Plant Railroad Historical Society Train Show & Swap meet at the 1914 Plant City High School. March 19 – Pregnancy Care Center annual “Drive For Life” golf tournament at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Call 813-759-0886 for information. March 23 - Workman’s Compensation Seminar at the Plant City Parks & Recreation Department. Starts at 11:00 AM and runs till 3:00 PM. Call Janet Kelly At 754-5997 for information and reservations. April 2 - Spring for Education Fashion Show at the home of Rick & Di Lott, 3200 Polo Place, Plant City. For reservations call Sheryl Boggs at 813-754-8242. April 2 - Annual Children’s Fun Festival on the ground at Hillsborough Community College, Park Road, Plant City. Call Sharon Everidge 813-7521683 or Marsha Passmore 813-7542301 for information. April 2 – Bike Fest – downtown Plant City. Starts at 5:00 PM. April 9 -14 th. annual First Baptist Church “Good News for Fast Times” Golf Tournament. Call the church ofﬁce at 813-752-4104 for information. April 12-18 - Sun N’ Fun at Lakeland Airport.

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AROUND TOWN

LOCAL

STORY BY NEAL FISHER

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL SWINE SHOW VERY POPULAR & KIDS ENJOY IT

or over two decades the Strawberry Festival’s Swine Show has been a teaching tool for discipline and responsibility for the next generation. Even though the temperature was hovering in the ﬁfties and winds and a steady drizzle made for an inclement night, a familiar buzz from years past ﬁlled the north livestock tent as 70 youths showed off the pigs they have been caring for and grooming since last October. After winning the class 4 title, Harley Davidson defeated the eight other class winners to claim Grand Champion honors, while Jake Maxwell was named Reserved Champion. The participants ranged in age from eight years old to high school seniors and all are members of the Florida Farmers Association

and 4-H club. The ages were divided into a senior, intermediate and junior division for competition, as well. “The kids really enjoy it and it is popular within the community,” said co-associate director and the show’s chairmen, Joe Poppell. “In fact, we could only pick 70 contestants out of 275. For the businesses it provides a convenient means of advertising. 300 to 400 hundred people come to the show and the auction that follows the next night. The names of the businesses at the events are called out.” The participants receive the money from the auction. Poppell felt the local community has always been generous with their prices, as businesses offered around $5 per pound.

Poppell was proud of the participants and the community as he judged this year’s event to be the best in its history. He stressed this has happened each year, it progressively get better, despite facing money concerns, as many small towns do. The Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion and First Place in each class was sponsored by Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan Association. Others sponsors for awards included Southside Farm Supply-Nutrena, Farm Credit of Central Florida ACA, Hoof ‘n Horns Slaughterhouse, Hillsboro Bank and Bill McClelland.

“While the winner gets the spotlight it is about more than just a contest,” said the Supervisor of Agribusiness Education for Hillsboro County Schools, Jim Jeffries. “It is a unique way to raise funds for college or to start an agricultural career by providing an experience in caring for animals and record keeping.

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

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LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON

DAIRY CONTESTANT JUDGING CONTEST S

tudents from all over Hillsborough, Polk and Pasco Counties gathered at the Florida Strawberry Festival for the Dairy Contestant Judging Contest. 125 students participated, representing approximately 13 schools forming 28 FFA and 4H teams. This contest was as much a learning experience for the students as it was a judging of the cows. A group of four cows were lead in before the discriminating eyes of the judges, while the students prepared to judge them in several categories and place them in order, according to how they thought the judges would place them.

The dairy categories included: Class1 - Holstein Heifer, Class 2 - Jersey Heifer, Class 3 - Brown Swiss Heifer and Class 4 - Ayreshire Heifer. The students were also given several questions to answer, such as, “Which cow was most overconditioned” and “Which cow showed the most body composition?”

After a difﬁcult judging process, a 1/2 hour break was given so the votes and questions could be tallied, determining individual and team winners.They were as follows:

4-H Jr. Teams 1st - Hillsborough (Emily Hay, Kaley Brocks, Trent Johnson & Raelynn Nichols) 2nd (Brianna Smith, Jonathan Upthegrove & Josh Upthegrove) 3rd - Hillsborough (J.T. Reale, Savannah Busciglio & Jared Upthegrove) 4-H Sr. Teams 1st - Chanse Huggins, Kelli Hamilton, Brandy McHenry & Ashley Brocks 2nd - Trehy Johnson & Ben Theynhill High Score Individual 1st - Brandy McHenry, 2nd - Kelli Hamilton, 3rd - Trehy Johnson F.F.A. Jr. Teams 1st - Turkey Creek (Austin Salters,

Stacey Bridges, Ryan Rice & Brennan Wilson) 2nd - (Weightman Jenna Ferroira, Matt Gabrielslay, Michael Moran, Manssa Truney) 3rd - Marshall (Kaci Flemmings, Kaylee Knox, Kaci Compton & Haylee McKey) High Score individual winner Stacey Bridges. High Score Individual High Score Individual 1st - Stacey Bridges, 2nd - Austin Salters 1st - Josh Cribbs 2nd - Erin Zimmerman 3rd - Travis Nichols 3rd - Aspen Upthegrove

F.F.A. Sr. Teams 1st - Durant (Josh Cribbs, Erin Zimmerman, Mike Rogaisy & Katie Tindel) 2nd - Armwood (Crystal Shansbury, Brittaney Jennings & Geavieve Lewis)

Congratulations to the winners! Thanks to all the sponsors of this event, including The Tractor Supply, and the anonymous donor. Also, thanks to all the parents and volunteers who helped to make this event a success.

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

AROUND TOWN

LOCAL

STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON

PREGNANCY CARE CENTER’S 2005 WALK FOR LIFE

regnancy Care Center of Plant City held its 2005 Walk For Life event on a cool Saturday, February 12th, at the Plant City Stadium. Registration began at 8 a.m., which offered the opportunity for participants to think about the walk, as well as contemplate volunteer opportunitities. T-shirts worn by volunteers and those involved in the walk listed the names of donors who contributed at least $250 to over $1,000. The event got rolling about 9 a.m., with the invocation by Doug Granger and welcome from Mary Alice Hendricks, Pregnancy Care Center Executive Director. The walk was a comfortable 2 mile distance that was walked, ran, rollerbladed, and “strollered.” An encouraging number of young peo-

ple came out to participate and show their support. Even several family pets were excited to be part of the Walk For Life. Free refreshments were available for hungry walkers and volunteers. Besides providing for the physical and material needs of mothers and babies, The Pregnancy Care Center provides and environment that allows the clients to feel the love of Jesus Christ and gain hope. The Center is a non proﬁt 501c3 corporation that is supported only by donations. It is a place that helps those in the community who are in need of their services. There is no charge for their help, whether it’s for a pregnancy test or other services. Education is an important part of the center. They offer accurate informa-

tion and educational resources on pregnancy, fetal development, adoption, relationship issues an more. Referrals for adoption, medical care, ﬁnancial assistance, legal aid, and social services are available. The center also provides conﬁdential support. It offers a free abortion recovery program and an abstinenceonly teen education program called “STAR.” It stands for Start Thinking Kathy Loetocher with baby Emily Thompson

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

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About Relationships. It is hoped that this information and classes will help young women gain the skills to make good choices. Love and support are two of the most important things the center has to offer. It is a safe place for a woman to go, especially when she is in crisis and desperate. She knows she will receive what she needs if she goes there without fear of being judged or criticized. The Pregnancy Care Center helped 1500 clients this past year. Most of them have made the choice for life. 103 of those gave their lives to God. This is an outreach ministry that wants to make a difference in the community. Because it can be a scary and confusing time for the men involved in an unplanned pregnancy, assistance is also available for them. For those who have made it through the most trying time of pregnancy and delivery, they can have some comfort knowing they can count on continued support for just awhile longer. Some clothing

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and baby items are available for clients in need. To continue to be able to offer these items, they have a continual need for items such as maternity and baby clothing of various sizes, as well as diapers, blankets and other baby items. The Pregnancy Care Center will be joining in the festivities at the Strawberry Festival. They will be setting up a booth that will include information, a baby changing station with diapers and a quiet place to breast feed with rocking chairs. A Golf Tournament fundraiser will take place on March 19th at the Walden Lake Country Club. Registration and lunch will take place at 11 a.m. The Shotgun Start will happen at 1 p.m. There is a $75 fee per player and $300 for 4. Whole sponsorships are still available, beginning at $125. The event will be sponsored by the Noon Rotary Club. Lott Mather is providing a 2005 Canyon GMC Truck. Hole In One is providing refreshment.

For more information on The Pregnancy Care Center, visit them at 304 North Collins Street, or call 813-759-0886. Log onto www.plantcitypregnancycenter. org or email them at pcdirector@ifriendly. com. Walking for life.

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Call Today: 754-7788 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 15

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STORY BY LINDA FLOYD

ANNOUNCING THE THIRD ANNUAL “FOCUS ON YOU” MAKEOVER on the schedule is a massage, and if you’ve never had one, you’re in for a treat.

on and pick another winner. Be sure you are able to take the day off on May 27, 2005.

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.

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.

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.

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

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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 we don’t hear from you within one hour, we’ll move

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 • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 16

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ver 100 years ago Allen Chapel became part of Plant City. Today it is recognized as a church that has a heart for the community. That heart is longing to do more, however a lingering mortgage is preventing them from focusing on their outreach goals. It is apparent how much the membership loves Allen Chapel and is anxious to implement new programs at the church. Six years ago Allen Chapel found it was necessary to build a new church building. Six brothers and a former pastor thought nothing of devoting their time, talents and energy to do all the work themselves, instead of hiring a contractor. This allowed them to save the church a tremendous amount of money on labor, but they still had to ﬁnance the cost of materials. When Pastor Porter came to the church he was made aware of the situation. He prayed for direction and set out to help them with their dilemma. A committee was organized that would focus primarily on ways to shorten the length of time they would pay on this debt. Since then they have been brainstorming at regular meetings and carrying out

fundraising ideas. A church calendar, Christmas play, Career Day and church cruise were amongst the fundraisers that contributed to last year’s financial goals. After doubling up on mortgage payments for some time, they are excited that on or before February 2006, the final payment will be made. Plans for a computer lab for seniors, tutorials for students after school, day care and summer programs will be part of their outreach programs for the community. Pastor Porter says the church is working on increasing its family structure, and has grown by about four new members per quarter who become a dedicated part of the church. Allen Chapel’s vision is to be a multicultural church with services that will appeal to everyone, whether they enjoy traditional or non traditional services. If interested in investing in a church who is investing in your community, please contact them at the church office at 752-7819 on Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., or call Pastor Porter at 407-506-3585. Come visit them at 1109 E. Laura Street.

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STORY BY SHERRI ROBINSON

THE 2005 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL BABY CONTEST COMPETES WITH NAP TIME

he baby contest was one of the most popular contests at the Strawberry Festival this year. With standing room only, the Sparky’s Oil Company Entertainment Show Tent buzzed with excited parents, friends and contestants waiting for the show to begin. The temperature was really starting to climb, but few people noticed. The focus was on getting the babies dressed and lined up for the first category. The show soon got underway, beginning with the Decorated Diaper event. A variety of creative and adorable diaper designs were worn by the babies in each of the four divisions: Strawberry, 70 Years and Still Jammin’, Funniest and Most Creative. Great job, moms and dads, on your creativity. When it came to Prettiest Girl and Most Handsome Boy, there were so many beautiful babies competing for the prize, it would have been a difficult job choosing just one. Soon nap time began taking over, but the parents were assured that was fine and the contest would still go on. The saying, “Babies are so sweet when they are sleeping” was so true. Those who were not getting their “40 winks” were busy winning the hearts of the audience and judges with smiles and waves. The next three categories make babies irresistible...the biggest eyes, chubbiest cheeks and most hair. The final and the most exciting category was the Diaper Derby. Get ready, get set, go.....well, almost. It was a slow beginning at the starting line, but soon some of them caught on and headed toward the finish line and the rewards of dangling keys or hugs and kisses from the loved one coaxing them across the floor. The final heat between the 6-8 and 9-12 month winners came to an end quickly as the

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

overall winner made a beeline to the ﬁnish. The babies were fun to watch but it was truly entertaining watching the adults do everything and anything they could to lure the babies to them. Though it was a long warm afternoon, everyone had a great time. The Little Miss Plant City and her Court were available to help out with the ﬁrst portion of the award presentations, handing off the honor to the Strawberry Queen and her Court later. All of the young ladies looked beautiful, as usual, and did a great job distributing ribbons and presenting trophies. The categories, divisions and parent’s names are as follows: Decorated Diaper Strawberry Payden Cody; Parent - Stacie Lynn 70 Years and Still Jammin’ Giselle Guiterrez; Parent - Dora Gutierrez

Parent - Kerri Lott 10-12 months - Larry James Davis 3rd Parent - Lisa Davis 13-15 months - Brady Lee Moore Parent - Dana Moore 16-18 months - Jon Raymond Hill Parent - Jonathan & Angela Hill Biggest Eyes Mara Suzanne Green Parent - Matt & Rachel Green Chubbiest Cheeks Cody James Williford; Parent - Deanna Shaw & Scott Williford Most Hair Winter Ann Marie Mufﬂy; Parent - Andrew & Lisa Mufﬂy

Funniest Diaper Jack Junior Duke; Parent - J.W. & Hollie Duke

Diaper Derby 6-8 months - Joseph Mitchell Parent - Ronald Mitchell 9-12 months - Kaden Palmer Parent - Brandie Devane

Most Creative Diaper Amanda Rae Parrish; Parent Bobby & Kimberly Parrish

Fastest Crawling Baby Kaden Palmer; Parent - Brandie Devane

Prettiest Girl 6-9 months - Aierel Helen Jordan; Parent - Tori Jordan 10-12 months - Kalesta Marie Barreto; Parent - Leonor Barreto 13-15 months - Kyleigh Marie Boehling; Parent - Kyle & Shannon Boehling 16-18 months - Sara Elizabeth Standford-Jennings; Parent - Sally Standford & James Jennings

Number of entries in each Contest: Decorated Diaper - 31 Baby Feature - 116 Diaper Derby - 34

Most Handsome Boy 6-9 months - Brett Macoy Lott

Thanks to all of those who worked so hard to make the baby contest a success, including the contest committee: Kristi Dean - Chairman, Rhonda Allen, Connie Barrow, Crissy Boyd, Bonnie Bullard, Jana Butler, Lisa Corbett, Ann Roberts, Sara Linda Rodgers and the Judges: Janice Shiver, LaVon Franklin & Suzanne Stuart.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 21

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STORY & PHOTOS BY KRISTEN TONEY

THE 2005 CHILI COOK-OFF

THE DELICIOUS TRADITION CONTINUES

t was a beautiful day in downtown Plant City, and as wonderful as the early spring air smelled, the aroma of chili controlled the nostrils of anyone within a mile of the train depot. All along the sidewalks, long tables laden with steaming themed chili enticed passersby to stop and savor their unique ﬂavors. The 15th Annual Chili Cook-Off was underway. The idea of the Chili Cook-Off is to gain entries from community members who feel they make the best chili around. The participants arrive with their chili, and are even invited to decorate their tables in order to attract those who come to sample. By simply purchasing a ticket, any passerby gains the right to taste all the chili he or she can stomach, and all proceeds from the event go to support various charities in our town. Although some were seen taking an absentminded bite and, with wide eyes and shocked facial expression, emptying their bowl in the trash and moving on to the next table,

festivities simply for the fun of it. However, being that neither had ever been occupied with the contest in the past, they would need a great idea in order to pull off a prize-winning experience. Their brainchild? None other than a concoction they labeled Road Kill Chili. Although they gave their full assurance that all the ingredients were indeed store-bought, one had to speculate on the sincerity of the claim. Glancing from the cowboy hats tacked with animal skins to the aprons smeared with tire tracks, doubt was written across the face of many a person as they peered into the chili pot.

for the most part, each unique blend of chili was enjoyed by all. This year’s contest was chaired by the community-involved Sandy Roger. “It’s been fun!” Roger said, laughing. “I had the opportunity to chair the Harvest Ball for the Spring for four years, and when I joined the Arts Council Board of Directors, they asked me to do this. It’s a new adventure!” The 20 entries of this year were judged by three ﬁremen from the Plant City Fire Department. Of those entries, prizes were given for categories in Spicy, Mild and Novelty, as well as a prize for the Most Creative Themed Table and also the People’s Choice Award. Most of the entries were from those who had been involved in the event in the past, yet there were a few ﬁrst-timers.

“Oh man, we’re having a great time!” exclaimed Spernak. “Never done it before, just doing it for the fun. And it’s been worth it!” But chili was not the only thing on the menu for the day. Michael Cameron played the role of the Master of Ceremonies for the event, and the crowd enjoyed entertainment from organizations such as Jackie’s Dance Studio and also the Strawberry Square Dancers. With

Take Nick Roger and Keith Spernak, for example. These gentlemen decided that they were going to join this year’s

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Keep a look-out for the Chili Cook-Off to come around once again this time next year. It is deﬁnitely an event that you will want to dig your spoon into!

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At the end of the day, David Green took home 1st Place in the Spicy category, with Tom Shefﬁeld of Albertson’s following in 2nd Place. The Mild Category was ruled by Rick Spears in 1st Place, and Dodie White of Plant City Entertainment close behind in 2nd Place. Carlye Vickers took home 1st Place in the Novelty Category, with Nick Roger and Keith Spernak coming in 2nd. The prize for Most Creative Themed Table went to Dodie White of Plant City Entertainment, and South Florida Baptist Hospital won The People’s Choice Award.

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a greater turnout than ever before, the entertainment was a grand addition to the chili-tasting itself. Many attendees arrived bearing lawn chairs and blankets, loading up on chili and relaxing while they enjoyed the activities.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 22

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STORY & PHOTOS BY SOPHIA DEDON

TELL YOUR TALE

HOW RACHEL LAYMAN OVERCAME ADVERSITY

yes watching, ears waiting, attention focused on you in anticipation for what you have to say but, but, but, but you can’t get the words out. That was life for Rachel Layman, beginning in the fourth grade when she discovered she had a stuttering problem. The speech impediment only worsened as she aged, because she developed a fear of people hearing her speak. “I would have my sister call my friends’ houses for me and ask for them so I didn’t have to talk to anyone,” said Layman. Simple occurrences in life that

we take for granted were daily challenges for her. She wouldn’t ask for things, talk in class, or even order at restaurants. Slightly before she turned 19 she got married and soon was ready to move into a managerial position at her work. Her boss at the time wanted her to look into improving her speech and paid for her to go to New York to meet with Dr. Martin Schwartz, a man with much experience in this ﬁeld. She spent the next four years of her life battling to overcome this problem. She had to learn how to not be afraid of opening her mouth. More than anything, she had to eliminate herself of the fear of stuttering. At one point she wore a pin that told strangers to ask her

questions about her problem. By the age of twenty-two she had ﬁnally conquered her stuttering and could speak just as normally as anyone else. In retrospect, this experience made her the person she is today, because unlike most people, she has patience and a compassion for all people and a love for those in need. Today she has two sons that she home schools and also enjoys being a doula where she has the blessed opportunity to support women and be there for them as they deliver children. “I just have such an admiration for life and the miracle of giving birth,” says Layman. Rachel Layman is the epitome of weathering the storms life throws at you in order to enjoy the sunlight.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 23

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STORY & PHOTOS BY KRISTEN TONEY

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 • March 15 - April 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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STORY BY LINDA FLOYD PHOTOS BY BILLY FRIEND

2005 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL BABY PARADE ALL OF THEM WERE WINNERS!

3) Rylee Van Stronder Best Costume – 1) Tabatha Spinks 2) Pezrae E. Brown 3) Kaydence Pacneco Most Creative Float – 1) Jaden Deagan 2) Faith Martin 3) Mary-Nanette Boyce Most Beautiful Float – 1) Suzanna Mazariegos 2) Ashlyn Nicole Rogers 3) Daisy Duke Two Year Old Winners Most Beautiful – 1) Abigail Grace Ventura 2) Ashlyn Steinestel 3) Mary-Catherine Michelle Stephens

he GFWC Plant City Junior Woman’s Club sponsored Baby Parade was held in the stadium at the Florida Strawberry Festival on Saturday, March 12. The children ranged in age from one to four years old, with about half of them walking and the other half riding on homemade floats. Most of the little girls were dressed up in pageantry finery, in some of the most beautiful dresses imaginable, and some of the little boys in tuxedos. The rest were in themed costumes to match their floats, which really displayed the creative imaginations of their talented parents. It’s hard to imagine all the work that goes into making

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 26

these wonderful ﬂoats, because most of them are truly spectacular. But the children managed to outshine them and, as expressed more than once during the parade, it was extremely difﬁcult to pick the winners, because they were all winners. But duty called, and the results were as follows: One Year Old Winners: Most Beautiful 1) Sylvia Crosby 2) Christian Brooke Sullivan 3) Gabrielle Broeders Most Handsome – 1) Owen Westover 2) Nicholas Jones 3) Ethan Jett Healthiest – 1) Jaya Graham 2) Thad Haize Ford 3) Tori Wegner Most Personality – 1) Haydon Michael Patrick 2) McKinley Nicole Baker

Most Handsome – 1) Kirkland Stutler 2) Zachary Cole Cothren 3) Ian Butler Healthiest – 1) Trey Ragan 2) Kamille Long 3) Zachary Hunter Most Personality – 1) Kellie Murrell 2) Coley Riley 3) Wyatt Rogers Best Costume – 1) Abigail Barber 2) Alexandra Harrell 3) Trinity Walker Most Creative Float – 1) Savanna Gibson 2) Dana Franklin 3) Shawn Michael Connell Most Beautiful Float – 1) Colten Joel Drawdy 2) Sydney Renae Watson 3) Chancey Johnson Three Year Old Winners

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Most Handsome – 1) Dalton McMath 2) Logan Abraham 3) Dylan Smothers

Most Creative Float – 1) Baylie Lynn Odom 2) Anthony Agar-Rentz 3) Logan Hicks

Healthiest – 1) McKenzie Nicole Talavera 2) Zachary Thames 3) Daniel Paul

Most Beautiful Float – 1) Riley Garrison 2) Brandon Van Camp 3) Blake Strickler

Most Beautiful Float 1) Haley Whitmore 2) Hunter Cribbs (no #3)

Most Personality – 1) Blane Lane 2) Lauren Elizabeth Field 3) Sebastian Carlton

Four Year Old Winners Most Beautiful – 1) Hannah Spivey 2) Cassie Taylor Highsmith 3) Jadea Broome

Best Costume – 1) Savannah Trapnell 2) Kenneth Hattaway 3) Zane Floyd

The ﬁrst place winners in all the four year old categories make up the Baby Parade Court, with the winners in the “Most Handsome” and “Most Beautiful” categories as the “King and Queen”. Congratulations to all the children who participated in the Baby Parade. You are all winners!

Most Beautiful – 1) Julissa Ordaz 2) Ruby Lamas 3) Kimberly Gilmore

Best Costume – 1) Kristin Bassinger 2) Chelsea Nichols 3) Chantz McEver

Most Handsome – 1) Bradley Moisa 2) Tyler Rice 3) Cole Hanson

Most Creative Float 1) Bailey Lemelin 2) Brantley Hall 3) Makenzi Deagan

Healthiest – 1) Brandon Waring 2) Rylee Michelle Moorman 3) Cameron Scott Cotnoir Most Personality – 1) Katelyn Yarborough 2) Lexus Yerks 3) Chelsea Woodard

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 27

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STORY BY LYNNE WARREN

DR. DOLORES LOWE

NEW LOCATION - SAME PERSONALIZED CARE

n November 2004, family physician Dr. Dolores Lowe opened her new office at 1601 West Reynolds Street. After several years of practice in Plant City as part of different physician groups, Dr. Lowe felt it was time to make a move. She learned a great deal from the colleagues with whom she worked since 1999, but wanted to give herself the space and latitude to explore her own personal style of individualized care. Lowe has a strong concept of what a family practice should be, and that involves building relationships with her patients. She gets as much from patients as she gives to them. She and her staff work hard to know each patient and understand all of the factors that contribute to their healthcare needs. Dr. Lowe’s practice is a family affair. Her husband helps out in the office at times, and her daughter, Megan, is a part time employee, while attending USF. Fortunately for Dr. Lowe and her patients, some key staff members from her old office made the move with her. Janice - the office manager, Stephanie - Lowe’s medical assistant,

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

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and Megan – Patient Referral Coordinator, are all part of the new practice. Originally from Davenport, Iowa, Lowe moved to Florida and began attending Hillsborough Community College in 1985. During her time at HCC, Lowe became involved in the community and college activities, and fell in love with Plant City. She completed her education at the University of South Florida in Tampa, then returned to Iowa for her residency. She practiced there for two years before deciding the sand and sun of Florida were calling her back. Plant City provided the perfect small-town atmosphere and close proximity to the water she loves. Both Lowe and her husband are avid sailors and are very involved in the Tampa Sailing Squadron and the Youth Sailing Program in Apollo Beach. Lowe’s husband serves as the chairman of the youth program, and hopes to get more Plant City youth involved. The two will be actively recruiting 12 to 17 year olds for program sponsored lessons to begin this summer.

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STORY & PHOTO BY SHERRI ROBINSON

WHAT WAS NEW AT THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL?

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or those of you who made it out to the Strawberry Festival this year you might have noticed a few changes. First of all, we have a brand new Expo building in which two new exhibits were held. First, the FITEC Challenge, where not only the students had a chance to win with their models and ideas, but the teachers involved were given an opportunity to win, as well. Second, the IGX, Interactive Game Experience, was the hot spot for free game playing. There anyone of any age could try their hand at the latest new games. Of course, the kids were excited, but it was surprising how many adults ﬁlled the center. Adults not only had the chance to see just what is going on in the video world, but also get a glimpse of what it is they have been buying for their children and grandchildren. The adults also discovered why playing video games is so much fun. A person could spend all day just walking around enjoying crafts, music shows and competitions, but for a real thrill you had to head over to see one of the new shows. Everyday at 12:30, 3:30 & 6:30 the Bikes, Boards & Blades show “wowed” the crowds with unbelievable aerial stunts. Five guys make up this team of professional athletes. They have earned pres-

tigious titles with XGames and broken records with Guinness’s Book of World Records. These guys came from all over the country, including our neighboring city of Orlando, just to be at the Strawberry Festival. Though each stunt has been practiced hundreds and thousands of times, “Flying through the air with the greatest of ease” has not come without cost. As a group, the list of broken bones, including a broken neck, is long, so there is no hesitation from the announcer to warn “don’t try this at home, kids. These guys are professionals. They do this for a living.” As with the IGX exhibit, the big surprise was how many adults were interested and ﬁlled the bleachers every show to watch something that has been known to draw only young people and professionals of the sport. Last, but not least, this year, we had the honor and privilege of watching a “Fly Over” by the U.S. Air Force. They did a practice run during the Youth Parade and the real thing during the Strawberry Festival Parade. It was a tremendous amount of work by everyone involved to bring it here, but well worth the effort. Well, that’s it for this year, but I’m sure there will be just as much great stuff to look forward to next year.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 29

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STORY BY BRIAN WEST PHOTOS BY BILLY FRIEND

GONE! 4 POUNDS OF SHORTCAKE HAWTHORNE WINS AGAIN

his is the 70th year of the Florida Strawberry Festival, and if you’ve ever been to the Florida Strawberry Festival, you’ve probably seen the St. Clements booth where you can make your own strawberry shortcake. St. Clements has been welcoming shortcake lovers through their often long lines for more than 30 years now, and is a staple of the event. People come from all over the world to stand in line and make their own shortcake.

Shortly after St. Clements began serving their “make your own” shortcake, they began having the shortcake eating contest. Barbara Caccamisi, Project Coordinator, recalls the idea as something the church and the Chamber of Commerce came up with to promote the Florida Strawberry Festival.

As the contest is about to begin, each contestant is dressed in an apron and given a bucket, you know, in case they have the need to throw up. Several years ago, a contestant actually had to stop and throw up in the bucket. But once a contestant does that, they are disqualiﬁed from the event. This contestant actually wanted to continue. Can you imagine eating so much shortcake that you have to throw up, and then trying to eat more?

In the beginning, contestants were given several small shortcakes to eat. The contest was to see how many of the shortcakes someone could eat in an hour. Years later the contest evolved into a contest to see who could eat the most of a single 4-pound strawberry shortcake. The 4-pound cake consist of a layer of cake, strawberries, a layer of cake, strawberries, whipped cream, and whole berries on top. For this cake, contestants are given 10 minutes. There is a maximum of 10 contestants and the last few years there hasn’t been any problem getting people to sign up for the event. Those wishing to participate sign up for the contest about an hour before the event.

When the contest begins, contestants must eat the cake. They cannot hide it in their aprons or put it under the table. To make things a little more interesting, contestants are given spoons to use to eat the cake, and they must use the spoon. However, after 7 minutes, the spoons are taken away and contestants may use their hands to eat with. Some have taken the opportunity to simply eat the cake with their mouths, directly from the plate. This year the contest had a story line running before the event began. Thomas Hawthorne of Plant City, and the 2003 winner, came back to compete after placing second in the contest last year to a retiree from Sun City. Add to that Cecil Burrell, of Ontario, the 1990 champion who entered the contest once again, hoping to take the title back home.

Caccamisi said, “When we said go, Cecil surprised everyone by putting his face in the cake. So he was covered in whipped cream from the moment the contest started. That was different. We’ve never had anyone do that before.” A few hundred spectators cheered the contestants on, while the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court stand behind the contestants cheering. The Queen and Court also have the responsibility to take the spoons away from the contestants after the 7 minute mark has passed. But this year would be different. In the record time of 5 minutes and 53 seconds, Hawthorne was declared the winner, which included him licking the plate clean. Caccamisi said, “We never got a chance to take everyone’s spoons away from them. He was using the spoon like a shovel. That’s never happened before. And to be quite honest, Thomas was probably the cleanest winner we’ve ever had.” Hawthorne walked away with a trophy and a ticket to the St. Clements “make your own” booth and an invitation to return next year and retain the title. Maybe we’ll see him again.

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

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

STORY BY KEN LAWRENCE

RICHARD GERE WAS HERE!

THE MOVIE STAR SPENT THE DAY AT LAKE NELLIE - A PLACE FREQUENTED BY PLANT CITY FOLK! tree limbs. Late that afternoon, Lake County Sheriff’s cars began arriving along with private security people, who would secure the area during nighttime. The Day of the Filming and Richard Gere’s Arrival At dawn, more large vehicles and cars began arriving. Richard Gere was to be there at 10:30 Saturday morning, but he was delayed. It turned out that Lake Nellie was not the only spot where this commercial was to be ﬁlmed. Gere went to another location about two miles away, down a dirt road, to be ﬁlmed sitting in an old Corvair automobile.

ﬁne mist was rising from the water of Lake Nellie in Lake County, about an hour’s drive northeast of Plant City, at dawn on Thursday February 3rd, when a small aircraft swooped down over the lake. Inside was a Japanese television production crew looking for that “perfect spot” to ﬁlm a television and print media commercial.

in touch with Rick Lott, next door neighbor to the Simmons, and he had agreed to allow the TV production to take place on his property. Yes, it’s the same Rick Lott who owns the Lott-Mather GM dealership and Plant City Commissioner. What was especially interesting to the production people was that Mr. Lott’s dock ran straight out into the water from the shore.

The next day, residents at one end of the lake started receiving phone calls asking permission to ﬁlm a commercial at the lake. One recipient of the call was Marion Simmons, long-time Plant City realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. She and her husband, Johnnie, have been owners of a country home at Lake Nellie for almost 20 years.

When Marion Simmons received her call, the production assistant informed her that the TV commercial for Japanese TV was to star none other than one of the biggest names in Hollywood, Richard Gere. When Marion informed her husband, he asked, “Who’s Richard Gere?”

The caller had noted the Japanese crew was pleased with the look of Lake Nellie and especially liked its privacy. They had been

Lake Nellie could easily be renamed “Plant City North”, because of the number of locals who own property on that Lake County body of water. Among them is Mayor Mike Sparkman, the Lott’s, Joe

Finally, about 12:30, more security people arrived, including more Sheriff’s Deputies and they promptly checked out all the neighbors who were standing behind fencing. Around 1 o’clock, Richard Gere drove up in a limo and had lunch, including Florida grouper.

Newsome of School Board fame, and Steve and Krista Howard. Developer Ed Verner also owns property elsewhere on the lake.

Mayor Sparkman and Joe Newsome presented Gere with a ﬂat of Plant City strawberries, and he was also asked by Rick Lott to autograph DVD covers of Gere’s movie “Shall We Dance? They will be auctioned at the annual Rainbow Ball, one of Plant City’s biggest charity events of the year.

In the case of Richard Gere’s appearance in this Japanese advertisement for, of all things, a famous spa over there, Marion Simmons tells FOCUS that she was amazed at the amount of equipment and personnel who arrived on the scene. The crew was busy non-stop, setting up everything and as your writer knows, having been in the TV Production and News business for 25 years, there is a long list of things to do in order to be ready for a ‘shoot’.

Then it was off to work. However, no one could see the ﬁlming because large black drapes were hung around the set.

The crews even set up camera tracks around Rick Lott’s property. They enable the camera to capture a moving scene smoothly, by gliding along the tracks. A set was built that resembled an old garage, including an antique canoe from the 1800’s and other knickknacks. Cables were hidden among

Later as he was departing in a limousine to take him to Orlando for his ﬂight home, Richard Gere turned and waved to the residents. Everyone agreed that the actor was very gracious throughout his short time at Lake Nellie. All this to promote a spa in Japan! It must be quite the place.

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

LOCAL

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ARTIST OF THE MONTH STORY & PHOTOS BY SHERRI ROBINSON

BETTY JONES

PLANT CITY ARTIST OF THE MONTH

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

or someone who does not consider herself an artist, Betty Jones has certainly come a long way. She previously spent most of her time doing needlework, but now found her interests have broadened. She has her sights set on creating a line of cards. With a study in Business Management and experience in sales and retail, she will have an edge in marketing. However, she felt she needed some assistance with her drawing before she launched her collection. When she saw the sign for art classes she checked it out immediately and quickly enlisted the help of her new art teacher, Cherie Webb. “Ms. Cherie”, as she is affectionately named, also owns Ms. Cherie’s Art and Frame Shop at 118 West Alexander St. Jones feels her teacher is a Godsend. “If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. She has not only helped me with my art, but she has been a good friend.” Jones has only been taking lessons for a couple of months, but has already improved signiﬁcantly. She credits

Ms. Cherie with the conﬁdence she has gained and is thrilled that her teacher has seen potential in her abilities. “My philosophy is that if this doesn’t turn into a successful enterprise, at least I learned how to draw,” she explains. Because Jones is a monthly member, she can attend classes often and receives one on one attention. Another teacher, Bob Simmons, has contributed to Jones artistic skills, as well. He encouraged her to add color to her art pieces, improving her work. Jones also tried her hand at charcoal and was surprised at how well she did. She displays those pieces where she can see them and continues to be aware of what she needs to improve on. Jones ﬁlls the world with just as much love as her family of cats gives her and as much color as her collection of hats gives her friends. She is an artist of the best kind...an artist of life. Look for one of her pieces of work at this year’s Strawberry Festival.

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STORY & PHOTOS BY BRIAN WEST

DAVIS DEEMED OUTSTANDING IN PLANT CITY COLEMAN DAVIS NAMED CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

ince 1960, the service clubs in Plant City have come together to select a Citizen of the Year for the City of Plant City. The Kiwanis Club leads the effort with support from Daybreak Rotary Club, Noonday Rotary Club, Civitans, Woman’s Club, Junior Woman’s Club, Optimist Club, Pilot Club, and Lions Club, along with the Chamber of Commerce. The distinction is considered by many to be Plant City’s highest honor. Past recipients include Author Boring – 1960, Quintilla Bruton - 1961, Jim Redman – 1976, B. M. Smith, Jr. – 1984, Floyd Hall – 1993, Mike Sparkman – 1996, and Betty Chambers – 2002. Each club makes a nomination and the recipient is chosen from that group. John McCaughey, Kiwanis Club President, said, “This happens to be one of the most well kept secrets each year in Plant City.” An outstanding citizen is deﬁned as someone who is considered by their community contributions, above

and beyond their job, who gives freely of their time and talent to improve Plant City over an extended period of time and give without seeking anything in return. This year’s announcement of the 46th Annual Citizen of the Year was made during a lunch meeting held at the Ramada Inn Plantation House on Wednesday, March 2. Customarily, the recipient from the previous year introduces the next recipient of the award. Judy Barta, 2004 Citizen of the Year, had that responsibility this year. After several moments of keeping everyone in suspense while listing a detailed history of accomplishments meant both to recognize the individual and give hints as to who it might be, Barta shared the name with the audience - Coleman Davis. Many of you probably know Davis as one of the people behind the smiles at our local Plant City Badcock store. Davis actually owns several Badcock locations and has been with the W.S. Badcock Corporation for 44 years. He has served on the staff of the Dealer Training School, through which he has used his stores to train many future Badcock dealers. Among his many business accomplishments, Davis was named Small Business Retailer of the Year by the Florida Retail Federation Association in 2000.

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

Davis was born in Mulberry, Florida, but his family later moved to Plant City where he attended Bryan Elementary, Forest Park Elementary, Tomlin Jr. High School and Plant City High School. Davis served as a class ofﬁcer in high school, was a member of the Key Club and a football player. Davis later married the former Marian Sue Orme, with whom he has 2 children, Laura Storter and Jaime Davis, and one granddaughter, Taryn Storter. Some years later, Davis coached youth football, soccer, and basketball – and his community involvement was just beginning. Davis is a 24 year member of the Plant City Lions Club, with perfect attendance. During his time with the Lions Club, Davis has taken on the responsibilities of Club President, Zone Chairman, Region Chairman, District Leadership Chairman, and is currently a Director Emeritus of the Plant City Lions Club Board of Directors. Davis has received many distinctions and awards through his involvement with the Lions Club and was directly responsible for establishing the Lionel Lindsey Foundation. The purpose of the foundation is to provide funds for the Florida Lions Camp for visually, mentally and physically handicapped youth, located in Lake Wales. Davis currently serves on the board of the East Hillsboro Law Enforcement Appreciation Committee, is a trustee for the South Florida Baptist Hospital, and is an active member of the First Baptist Church of Plant City. The entire family was on hand, with the Storter’s, including Davis’ sonin-law, Michael Storter, waiting in the wings so the secret wasn’t given away as the announcement was made. As for the well kept secret, Davis said, “I told Sue I didn’t think I was going to be able to make it and she didn’t ﬂinch. I guess she knew I’d be here.” But that’s just Davis;

he’s there when you need him. Coleman, Congratulations! And thanks for all you’ve done for the City of Plant City. The following is the complete list of recipients: 1960 – Author Boring 1961 - Quintilla Bruton 1962 - Frank H. Moody 1963 - Edgar Hull 1964 - Willard McGinnes 1965 - Alex Hull 1966 - Robert S. Trinkle 1967 - Bill Rickert 1968 - Ben Rawlins 1969 - Horace Hancock 1970 - Dr. Hal Brewer 1971 - Roy Thacker 1972 - Henry Moody 1973 - Otis Andrews 1974 - Nettie Mae Draughon 1975 - Coach L. H. Duyck 1976 - James L. Redman 1977 - Mac Hooper 1978 - D. E. Bailey 1979 - Hillman F. Bowden 1980 - William Vernon 1981 - Reece Smith, Sr. 1982 - Paul Buchman 1983 - Betty Barker Watkins 1984 - B. M. Smith, Jr. 1985 - Mary Gardner 1986 - Richard Elston 1987 - David Byars 1988 - Ron Baker 1989 - William Bradbury 1990 - James Jones 1991 - Ruth Lyle 1992 - Ercelle Smith 1993 - Floyd Hall 1994 - Bob Edwards 1995 - Judy D. Martin 1996 - Mike Sparkman 1997 - Sadye Martin 1998 - Al Berry 1999 - Bill Herold 2000 - Ray Rollyson 2001 - Myrle Henry 2002 - Betty Chambers 2003 - Rev.H.Richard Bills 2004 - Judy Barta 2005 - Coleman Davis

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 35

AROUND TOWN

LOCAL

STORY BY KRISTEN TONEY

THE OVERFLOW

RENOVATION NEARING COMPLETION, REAL WORK JUST BEGINNING

n the past 8 years, those familiar with Shiloh Baptist Church have seen many changes take place. The congregation has built not only a new gym/family life center, but also a new sanctuary. The latest phase of the almost comprehensive building project is the renovation of the former sanctuary into the new youth building. On February 19, Shiloh’s youth group, The Overﬂow, held the grand opening for their new 10,000 square feet facility. Complete with a café and game room, the remodeled building was speciﬁcally designed to meet the needs of today’s teenagers. “We want them to know that they can come here, and it’s a safe

place,” said Brett Hemphill, the church’s youth pastor. “They can be themselves, and let us just love on them. So many of them are searching for the answers to their questions…we want them to find that the only answer they need is Jesus.” Obviously, his philosophy is working: approximately 100 young people are presently involved in The Overflow, and the numbers are expected to grow. According to Hemphill, this is only stage one of the final product. However, it was still a huge accomplishment to celebrate, and celebrate they did! While the kids munched on food and played games, the group’s worship band, as well as guest bands Three Fold Chord

The building at its current stage of transformation

and Arietta, rocked the house before speaker, Trevor Thomas, came to share his heart. “We used to practice in there a long time ago, before they started to work on it,” said Preston Williamson, lead singer of Arietta. “Going back, it just looked like a completely different place.” While there is still a bit more work to be done, Hemphill

isn’t worried. He plans to continue to build not only the youth group, but the facility as well. As he motioned across the auditorium, he commented, “We’re just doing it all as God provides.” For more information on Shiloh Baptist Church and The Overﬂow, call (813) 752-8345.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 36

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

n unacceptable and avoidable horror has hit our community and afflicted many of our residents. The Coronet destruction and what is being done to compensate those who have been affected was the focus of the community meeting in Lakeland on Tuesday, February 1st. The Lakeland Center was filled with eight hundred to a thousand concerned citizens, many of whom have experienced loss and mild to severe illness. Everyone was looking for answers, not just from opening speaker Texas Attorney Jim Ross of McCurdy & McCurdy, L.L.P, but from Erin Brockovich of Masry & Vititoe, P.C. Most people know Brockovich from the movie, “Erin Brockovich” that came out a few years ago. The movie followed her fight to get justice for the innocent against a large corporation who was breaking the law and jeopardizing the lives of those in the nearby communities. After that movie came out she thought “the toxic cases would end, but they did not.” Though there is “not enough money in the world to give back one’s health or a lost spouse”, she knows it is still a cause worth fighting for. Shannon Franco, a former resident of the Coronet area, has personally been affected. Her son is now 4 years old and is one of the over 150 children that suffer from autism. Autism has been linked to the poisoning found in the neighborhood around Coronet. Nothing was being done to help them or anyone else in the community, so

Shannon became an active presence to help bring attention to what was happening. Inﬂuenced by the situation, her husband decided that he would attend law school. Though they relocated to Oklahoma after he was accepted to the University of Tulsa, our community is still very much in the forefront of Shannon’s thoughts. She wants everyone to know that this lawsuit is not frivolous and that the problems will not be ﬁxed overnight but take heart, because someone will eventually be held responsible. She encourages residents to go to the city counsel and public meetings to stay aware and active in this issue. Masery & Vititoe can be reached with concerns and questions at 1-800-96toxic.

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

{ PLANT CITY Yesterday ∞ Today

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A RICH HERITAGE AND PROMISING FUTURE

Story by Linda Floyd Photos courtesy of Plant City Photo Archives

“To have Plant City for a home town is, in the ﬁrst place, to have received a ﬁne gift from life. A valuable present. Something of real worth. And, like all truly worthwhile things, the gift increases in value with the passing of Time.” THE LATE JOHN KEASLER, FORMER COLUMNIST FOR THE MIAMI NEWS AND NATIVE PLANT CITIAN

lant City, in the center of Eastern Hillsborough County, is a town with a proud history. It began in 1839 with a pine log blockhouse in the area called Fort Sullivan, which was near Hichipucksassa, an old Seminole Indian village that was no longer occupied, located about four miles northeast of the site where Plant City was later platted. These forts dotted Florida’s wild, uncivilized lands in order to protect the white settlers from the occasional Indian uprising. When the Second Seminole War came to an end in 1842, the impression was given that Indian attacks were no longer a threat, so many hardy settlers ventured to this new frontier country. Congress passed The Armed Occupation Act in that same year, stating that “any head of a family, or a single man over eighteen, able to bear arms, who settled anywhere south of Palatka, cleared and cultivated at least five acres of land, built a house fit for habitation and lived there for five years, would be entitled to a quarter section of land, one hundred and sixty acres.”

The first town plat was started in 1843 by A. M. Randolph, a government surveyor, when he and his crew mapped out the township in which this former Indian village of Hichipucksassa and abandoned Fort Sullivan were located. In the entire township they located on their map only four homesteads, one of which belonged to Stephen Hollingsworth, one of the area’s first residents. Hollingsworth’s daughter, Catherine, was the first child born (1843) in the area, and his grandson, Joshua, was the first president of Florida Southern College. Other founders were Rev. Samuel Knight, son-in-law of cattle baron Jacob Sumerlin, and John G. Thomas. Due to the Indian name Hichipucksassa being a problem for everyone and a vexation to the mail dispatcher in Tampa, in 1860 the name of the area became known as Cork. The Irish mail carrier in this area suggested it be named after his birthplace, so he prepared the petition for Washington, and the name Cork was quickly approved. The Civil War ended in the spring of 1865, but the war years were hard on Cork, and it was no longer

the thriving community it had once been. Many homesteads were left in ruin and abandoned. But by the late 1870s, normalcy had been restored. The population increased with people seeking opportunity in higher proportions in outlying sections of the county rather than in Tampa. War’s end saw renewal of these homesteads and in the early 1880s, a number of small orange groves began to dot the Cork area. During this period, Cork was mainly known as a cotton shipping center, a mill town, a phosphate center, and a citrus shipping center. From the beginning it has been an agricultural community and still is. Those hardy souls that recognized the wealth of opportunity this area provided were blessed with abundant natural resources and rich farmlands. Henry Bradley Plant was familiar with Florida because he brought his wife, sick with tuberculosis, to Jacksonville every winter on his doctor’s advice until her death in 1861. He spent his time establishing new express railroad lines all through the South. In June of 1883, he acquired a railroad charter from Alfred M. Parslow, which allowed

less than seven months to construct a segment of railroad from Kissimmee to Tampa. It was completed in December of 1883. In November of 1883, Judge Henry L. Mitchell engaged Lewis E. Warren to survey and plat the acreage he had been buying up, which the railroad went right through, in order to start a new town. The new town would bear the name of the man responsible for its birth, and, thus, Plant City was born. Plant City began as an instant town, and its growth was rapid. It became incorporated in 1885. The town at the turn of the century was enjoying prosperity, having been through yellow fever and a great freeze in 1895. The freeze put them out of the citrus business, so farmers turned to growing strawberries, which were becoming increasingly popular and proﬁtable. In a special mid-winter edition of The Tampa Tribune in 1900, Plant City’s bright future was the subject of an article. It was said to be a town inhabited by progressive people who had the advantage of good churches and an excellent school system, affording them the best educational advantages for their children.

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

Yesterday ∞ Today A RICH HERITAGE AND PROMISING FUTURE The Woman’s Club, led the drive for a municipal library. The library opened in 1960. A housing authority was created in 1956 which oversaw the ﬁrst low income housing development in the area. Also, development of Pinedale, Plant City’s ﬁrst exclusive subdivision, was started south of town in the mid 1950s. Adjoining Pinedale on the southwest

When Plant City needed a hospital, the community rallied together, holding fund-raisers, going door-todoor, taking up collections in church and with some government funding built South Florida Baptist Hospital in 1953. By this time the population was a little over nine thousand people, but in the coming decade, it would see a seventy percent growth. With so many civic minded citizens in the community, there was no shortage of service clubs or members, nor was there a shortage of needs. One of these needs was met when Mrs. Quintilla Bruton, past president of

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

Churches have always been an important part of Plant City life, whether it was 1855 or 2005. A community as blessed as this one is sure to honor the grace with which it is bestowed. A testament to the

I’VE TRAVELED, BUT JUST CAN’T SEEM TO FIND ANY PLACE LIKE P LANT C ITY . I GUESS THAT OLD ADAGE “THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME ” IS REALLY TRUE .

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In 1930, the Lion’s Club sponsored the ﬁrst Strawberry Festival, involving not just Plant City, but the surrounding communities as well. The festival has continually grown, with the exception of ﬁve years during World War II, and will celebrate its seventieth anniversary this year. It has become one of the best festivals of its kind, and is ranked 24th by the International Association of Fairs and Expositions! Its organization has remained much the same as in 1930 – one that is community oriented with thousands of volunteer hours put in each year to ensure the festival’s success.

is the ﬁrst unit of the Walden Lake Subdivision, an upscale community for upper income families.

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It was soon evident that the rich, fertile soil, favorable winter climate and the close proximity to railroad shipping provided everything necessary to make the area prosperous. But it couldn’t have been done without the hard work of the industrious people who settled here. By 1920, Plant City had earned the title, “Winter Strawberry Capital of the World”, but had it not been for Henry B. Plant, the history of Plant City would have been very different. The ability to transport strawberries and other produce made the town well known and important a decade before any of its sister cities lacking rail service. All of this was accomplished with a population of just under four thousand people.

faith and moral character of a town can be seen in the variety of denominations and churches it has in which to worship. Today there are more than 120 churches in the twenty six square miles it encompasses. Education has also been a primary concern, as evidenced by the efforts of the first settlers to provide schools for their children. Most of the early neighborhood schools were small one-room buildings without doors or windows. Compare that to the old Plant City High School on Collins Street when first built. Its first annual in 1916 made reference to the “Beautiful auditorium with a seating capacity of about fifteen hundred.” For the next several decades this auditorium was the center for community activities of every sort. When preservation and restoration financing options were being discussed in the early 1980s, Paul Buchman, an attorney and graduate from high school there, spoke for many when he said, “I strongly favor the restoration of this building because it represents the commitment of our pioneer citizens to quality education.” Noting that the town was just in its twenty-ninth year when the school was built and that school districts were localized on a community level at that time, he said the completion of such a school had to be the culmination of great community effort and sacrifice. “It is obvious,” he continued, “that those who developed the plans for this building with its imposing entrances and pillars wanted something more than a mere utility structure.” Now a National Register Historic Site, the1914 Plant City High School Community Center is home to the Quintilla Geer Bruton Archives Center, and is often the site for activities such as plays and concerts. The contrast between these early beginnings and the sprawling 93 ½ acre campus of Hillsborough Community College today is an example

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

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A RICH HERITAGE AND PROMISING FUTURE of the perfect blend of the historic complementing the modern in this close knit community. A ride through the historic district displays picturesque turn-of-thecentury architecture that adds much to the small town charm Plant City residents are so proud of. The restoration of the Historic Downtown area was well underway when, tragically in February of this year, a ﬁre destroyed an important part of it. But if the proud, resilient pioneer spirit has been displayed anywhere, it’s here in Plant City, and this vital section of that downtown block is sure to be rebuilt. Culture in the form of art, theater and history are part of the fabric of modern day Plant City. Each month, the Arts Council exhibits the works of local artists at the Chamber of Commerce. The Council also sponsors a Children’s Fun Festival, creative painting demonstrations, musical performances, and an annual Chili Cook-Off. Scholarships are awarded to young people pursuing degrees in the arts. Plant City Entertainment stages regular productions of Broadway plays and musicals. The East Hillsborough Art Guild hosts an Art Show at the Florida Strawberry Festival. The Guild also sponsors scholarships to encourage our youth to consider art as a career. A railroad museum is maintained by the Henry B. Plant Railroad Historical Society at the 1914 PCHS Community Center. The East Hillsborough Historical Society maintains a museum and Archive

Center there, as well, and sponsors Pioneer Day in November. Plant City has always been a community that prides itself on family values, and the number of cityowned parks attests to that. With the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department administering twelve parks, they offer organized sports programs in archery, basketball, softball, soccer, ﬂag football, golf, tennis and weight lifting. Plant City has active Little League and Babe Ruth Baseball programs. When asked about the growth of Plant City and what she thought the future would bring, Virginia Helper, City Clerk for the City of Plant City, said, “I’ve lived in Plant City practically all of my life and seen quite a bit of growth take place. I’ve traveled, but just can’t seem to ﬁnd any place like Plant City. I guess that old adage “there’s no place like home” is really true. As a teenager I remember the quaint shops downtown and looked forward to Saturday shopping in the various department stores like Blacks, Hookers, The Fashion Shop, Methvins Shoe Store, McCrorys and the drugstore, among others. Then came growth on the south end of town with the Walden Woods DRI. The shopping centers, fast food restaurants, housing developments and other activities promoted business and growth. Within the past few years there have been annexations and many proposals for expansion. Our present Mayor, Commissioners and City

Yesterday ∞ Today A RICH HERITAGE AND PROMISING FUTURE Manager have been visionaries committed to viable, orderly growth and growth management, being careful to ensure that the proper infrastructure and facilities are in place or can be provided to handle the growth. Projects are analyzed and assessed, and with wisdom decisions are made with the betterment of Plant City and its citizens in mind. I’m excited about the vibrant and bright future of Plant City.” With the population now exceeding 33,000, a need for increased housing has arisen. When asked how City Hall planned to address this, City Manager Dave Sollenberger, responded, “Home building in Hillsborough County is strong, and interest in the Plant City area has intensiﬁed over the last two and a half years, with a lot of voluntary annexations of property to the city occurring. More than 7100 building lots have been or are in the process of getting zoning approval. This amount of housing stock will accommodate an increase in residents to take Plant City’s population to the mid 40,000 range. Just how fast build-out occurs will depend upon the economy, interest rates and market absorption. And, there continues to be interest in additional annexation of land to the city for development.” “This amount of activity will place great demands on infrastructure, such as water, sewer, roads, parks and libraries,” Mr. Sollenberger added. “Planning is underway how best to meet these demands

and some construction projects are scheduled for water and sewer utilities. The biggest challenge will be roads, although planned projects in the FDOT’s tentative work program call for extension of Alexander from I-4 to SR39, four laning Sam Allen from SR39 to Park Road, and four laning Park Road from Sam Allen to I-4.” “One of the things we will have to pay attention to is preserving land zoned for economic development for that kind of use. According to the Planning Commission, over 2100 acres are zoned for that purpose,” said Mr. Sollenberger. He added, “The city’s new police headquarters at the former AutoNation site will serve the community well for future decades. It is scheduled to open in late April.” This 68,000 square feet building is off of Alexander Road and will provide the department a facility they can grow into, one more example indicative of the vision of Plant City’s governance. A lot of progress has been made here in the last 120 years, and with the pioneer spirit of their ancestors, the progressive, community-minded people that inhabit this city today can rest assured that much progress will be made in the next 120 years. This article was based on research from Plant City, Its Origin and History, Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., and from the website of The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce.

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

EXTRA

Mary Thomas Mathis

STORY BY MARY THOMAS MATHIS, VICE MAYOR

THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO SERVE THE CITY YEAR AFTER YEAR EMPLOYEE SERVICE AWARDS

, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 years of service – Aid- Craftsmanship – Dedication- Duty – Employment – Faithful – Hardworking – Loyal – Servitude.

The above mentioned numbers and synonyms describe city employees who have been recognized over the past 3 years at the Annual City of Plant City Employee Service Awards Luncheon. All too often a very special contribution made by an employee goes unnoticed or unrecognized. All too often longevity during one’s employment goes unnoticed or unrecognized. All too often an employee will go the extra mile and that, too, goes unnoticed or unrecognized. Successful organizations address their ongoing needs for employee retention and to increase employee morale by implementing an employee recognition program. Our City Manager, David Sollenberger, was the originator of the city’s Annual Employee Service Awards program. Since the inception of the awards

program, 287 employees have received awards totaling over 3200 years of service. The city held its ﬁrst awards luncheon on January 22, 2003, at Hillsborough Community College, Florida Studies Building. Each employee received an engraved acrylic plaque with the city’s seal, their name and years of service. 181 employees were awarded plaques representing over 2,000 years of service. Awards were presented to employees by Department Directors. Eddie C. Brooks received a 40 years of service plaque in 2003. Mr. Brooks is still employed with the city’s Recreation Department. Janice McDowell from Human Resources, Frank Fletcher and Roger Gilmore from Stormwater, and Johnny Felker from Utilities Maintenance were recognized for 30 years of service. Twelve (12) employees received 25 years of service awards, thirteen employees received 30 years of service awards, thirty-one (31) awards were

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

presented to employees with 15 years of service, forty-ﬁve (45) awards were presented to employees with 10 years of service, and seventy-ﬁve (75) awards were presented to employees with 5 years of service.

employees, twenty years of service was awarded to six employees also, eleven employees were recognized with ten (10) years of service, and twenty-three employees received a plague for ﬁve years of service.

The location of the second Annual Service Awards Luncheon was changed to the gorgeous Red Rose Banquet Hall at the Ramada Inn. In 2004, forty-nine (49) employees were on hand to receive service awards. At the top of the list in 2004 was Frank Fletcher from the Stormwater Department with 35 years of service to the city. Two thirty (30) years of service awards were presented to Steve Saffels from Utilities Operation and Barbara Ann Goodwine from the Recreation Department. Barbara passed away the same year; she is really missed here in Plant City. Barbara, we love you!!!

The Mayor and all commissioners were in attendance to express our appreciation for all of the work and service given to the city. To our surprise, Mayor Michael Sparkman received a plaque for his years of service from the city manager and the awards committee as he ends his tenure as Mayor/City Commissioner. I would personally like to give a special thank you to David Sollenberger, City Manager, for a well planned and exciting program. Accolades to the Ramada Inn for a delicious luncheon and the planning committee, made up of Jack Holland, Tonya Grant, Jaci Jenkins, Al Miller, Denise McDonald, Wayne Everhart, Delmar Jackson, Bill McDaniel, and a job well done to committee member Saunders Bush who also served as the program’s Master of Ceremonies.

Steve Clemons from Fire Rescue, Julie Ham for Planning/Zoning, and Mark Viccari from Utilities Operations all received twenty (20) years of service awards. Thirteen (13) employees were recognized with fifteen (15) years of service awards, eleven (11) employees received ten (10) years of service awards, and nineteen employees were acknowledged with 5 years of service awards form the city. The 2005 Annual Employees Service Awards Luncheon was held on January 26, 2005, at the Ramada Inn. Fifty-seven (57) service awards were presented to employees this year. Virginia Helper, the City Clerk, Elizabeth Brock from the City Managers Office, Carol Lane and Beck McIntosh from the Library, were all recognized with thirty (30) years of service with the city. Twenty-five years of service was given to six

Also, during the most recent service awards luncheon, the committee prepared Plant City Trivia questions for our entertainment. Let’s test your knowledge of Plant City History. Good Luck!!! In what year was the ﬁrst Strawberry Festival held? What is the name of the person who has served as Mayor ﬁve times? The city’s Library was dedicated in 1960 and was later named in honor of the husband and wife who were very instrumental in the library’s creation? Who are they? For which former Mayor and Commissioner is the current City Hall Commission Chambers named? What Olympic gold medal winner hails from the Plant City area?

TECO

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

NTERVIEW TI

SPOTLIGH

The name of Betty Chambers rings familiar in the ears of the vast majority of Plant City residents. Some know her as a former teacher, some as a former coach. She is celebrated as the woman who pioneered the city’s ﬁrst recreation department and also brought a branch of the YMCA to our town. Wife of the late Dr. Frank Chambers, member of the First Baptist Church of Plant City, the only woman director on the board of the Strawberry Festival…Chambers has left her mark on this community, and continues to inﬂuence all of us to this day.

Betty Chambers COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AT IT’S BEST S t o r y

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Betty Chambers C O M M U N I T Y I N V O LV E M E N T A T I T ’ S B E S T

Focus: You came to Plant City in 1942. What made you decide to make the move? Chambers: I was talked into applying for a teaching position here by a friend, just for the fun of it, and got a wire back telling me I was hired. Why would the Plant City Educational Board pick a little girl from a small town in Georgia, who hadn’t even ﬁnished her college degree, to come here to teach Physical Education in a high school? It was just Divine guidance, that’s all I can say. Focus: Why was it so important to you to be involved in our city? Chambers: I saw so many things to do! One thing I had done in the past was work with Girl Scouts, and when I came here, there were no active Girl Scouts! It was sad! And the same thing happened with a girl’s basketball team. I went in to the principal of the high school and asked about a girl’s basketball program. He said that the budget was kind of tight at that point, so I offered to coach for free, and he agreed. Opportunities simply came into my pathway. Focus: What would you say to people who just want to sit back and relax, who don’t want to be involved; they just want to exist in a town such as ours? Chambers: I would say they’re missing a lot of happiness. To be with people in this town…Plant City is a great place! It’s really their loss! I want to see them get involved, these people who come from other places and other states. Find out how wonderful this place is! Focus: One of the largest events that you participate in on a yearly basis is the Strawberry Festival. What is your position in the Festival? Chambers: I became an associate director in 1983, after having worked with the Festival for about four years beforehand. From there I went on to become a director, mainly heading up the volunteers who help to run the Festival. I am the only lady on the Board of Directors…with 15 other men! So I meet once a month with those 15 men! They’re good buddies and hard workers, and I appreciate all of them so much. Focus: What is one of the most interesting responsibilities you have had during your time with the Strawberry Festival?

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

Chambers: One of the most exciting jobs I had was arresting Mr. and Mrs. Tourist. It was a terrific job! As soon as the Festival would start, myself and another male director would go out with a patrolman to the east rest stop going to Lakeland. We would wait until we saw the perfect couple get out of the car, and I would follow the lady into the restroom, and he would follow the gentleman. We would simply strike up a conversation inside to make sure that these were the people we wanted to use for the arrest. Then after they left, we’d jump into the patrol car, follow them and pull them over! And so we would bring them back to what was the Holiday Inn then for their stay and even have the City Commissioners meet them there. I assigned different committees to entertain them for the rest of their stay, just to make sure that they enjoyed their time. Definitely one of the most interesting experiences I’ve had with the Strawberry Festival! Focus: At what point in the year do you begin to make preparations for the Strawberry Festival? Chambers: I start getting my material together a while before Thanksgiving. I get it to my captains with a letter right at Thanksgiving, letting them know what I’m expecting for the year. The first Monday that school starts after Christmas, I have a brunch for them, when we can talk about how we’re going to improve over last year. Next on the agenda is the big training for all of the volunteers, which is the Sunday before the Festival, and the Wednesday before is the walk-through for everyone. I want them to be prepared and as knowledgeable as possible for those who visit the Festival. Focus: What is the most rewarding aspect of the job for you? Chambers: I like people, I like to be of help to them and see them enjoy themselves. When I first started working with the Festival, I had a woman run up to me and ask me where the restroom was. I had no clue! I hadn’t had to use it yet! Once I found out, I took her right to where she needed to be. That’s what I’m there for. I want the people to come and enjoy themselves, and come back again and again. Anything I can do to help them to have a better experience is reward enough for me. Focus: Is there more you would like to see develop at the Strawberry Festival?

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 51

Betty Chambers C O M M U N I T Y I N V O LV E M E N T A T I T ’ S B E S T

THIS COULD BE YOUR...

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Chambers: I deﬁnitely want to keep it updated, which we have really done this year. We’re having more for the younger crowd and our new big building makes it even better. Of course, a big thing is making sure that we have plenty of nice, clean restrooms. Each year we will have to continue to update it to see it fully develop.

Chambers: Well…yes, sometimes! But no, I don’t really have a speciﬁc time in mind.

Chambers: Well of course, meeting my late husband! He was jerking sodas at the time, and it was just a wonderful time for me, full of memories that I will take with me forever. But I am also very proud of my childhood. I was taught to respect all nationalities, and this was very important to my family. I think that’s the reason that I love people so much, because of the way I was brought up.

Focus: As you look back on your life so far, what is something you feel you made the most impact through?

Focus: What are your plans for your life and the life of the community in the future?

Chambers: That’s hard to answer, because I’ve done a lot of church work, and I feel that I’ve led a lot of people to Christ, a lot of girls in particular. When I taught Physical Education, I was more or less a mother to the girls. They would come and conﬁde in me, and I was very frank with them. I took pride in bringing them out of their selfconsciousness into the women that they were meant to be. So I would say that in working with young people, I feel I’ve made the biggest impact.

Chambers: I never really know until a need arises! I’m so proud of my church and how we’re growing, and I pray each night for that. And I certainly pray for our president and his cabinet, and I would like to see peace someday all over the world. That would be wonderful.

Focus: In all the work that you have done for and with our community, in what have you felt the most fulﬁlled?

Chambers: As I said, I enjoy people! I can’t help but get involved. But I never do anything by myself. I always have so many supportive people behind me. I look at myself as a coach, and everyone who helps me is my team. When it comes to the Strawberry Festival, my volunteers, the maintenance and the cleaning people play such a huge role. They are just terriﬁc, and so vital to the entire idea of the festival. They make my day! They are the ones who keep me going.

Focus: Any thoughts of retiring in the near future?

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Focus: If you were able to travel to a speciﬁc point of time in your life, where would it be?

Chambers: I’m also enjoying seeing senior citizens take pleasure in life. And I see that more at the YMCA now. At times I get upset with them, and I just want to say, come on, come on, wake up! Let’s do this! Because basically, so many older people are lonely, and they ﬁnd friends at the YMCA. It’s a place where they can go and exercise and make friends, and it thrills me to see that.

Focus: Having done a numerous amount of things in Plant City, would you say there is a driving force that keeps you going?

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 55

LOCAL

STORY & PHOTOS BY PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES, INC.

FIRE

A COMMUNITY’S NEMESIS store on the SE corner of Collins and South Drane. To meet the growing demand for brick, Col. J. L. Young was involved, (VP, Secretary, and GM), in establishing the Plant City Granite Brick Company in 1906. Most of the brick buildings constructed in Plant City immediately after the 1907 ﬁres used bricks from this plant.

ire. A word justifiably banned from frivolous use in crowded places. A word that means devastation. A word that struck fear in the hearts of early settlers and residents of Plant City, and rears its ugly head even today. Fire had nearly destroyed the City of Plant City more than once. And many of the beautiful historic buildings we see today owe their brick construction to the appetite of past fires for buildings built of wood. In 1914, when the newly constructed Hillsboro State Bank was erected on the corner of Collins and Reynolds streets, that area was known as the “brick block”. Perhaps the worst of the disasters came in 1907 when the fledgling city was struck by two devastating fires – one in July and the second in October. These two fires all but wiped out the town. The July 4th fire destroyed one of the buildings owned by W. B. Herring, at the SW corner of Reynolds and Palmer streets. It had housed the “Town Hall”, where council meetings were

held and town records were kept – until they were lost forever to the fire. The October fire was a “wild fire” and spread over the entire Southside, leveling two entire business blocks. Destroyed were fourteen businesses, the city jail, and five dwellings. Gone, too, was the Plant City Opera House, which was on the second floor of the Herring Drug Store and which had been the site for many local events. (Following the fire, the Opera House was moved to the third floor of the Mays building at the corner of North Drane and Evers. It burned to the ground in 1915. The Wells building which replaced it serves today as an office building.) Following the painstaking demolition and cleanup, S. E. Mays rebuilt at the SW corner of Palmer and South Drane (the building later became Black’s Department Store and in 2005 serves as the local community bingo hall). He used brick. So, too, did Herring, as he rebuilt the drug

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

In 1910, in another of the series of fires which have haunted Plant City, the recently rebuilt Herring Drug Store was a fire victim. So, too, was The Plant City Courier, which was then housed on the second floor of the Herring building. The flames destroyed valuable papers, and irreplaceable copies of The South Florida Courier and The Plant City Courier dating back to 1884. Herring rebuilt again, and that building today houses the Whistle Stop Café. Ironically, in 1911, a “midnight fire” destroyed the Plant City Granite Brick Company. It was

later succeeded by the Roux Composite Brick Company, which manufactured and sold 5 million bricks in 1913 alone. Plant City had seen many tragic fires by 1914, and bricks became the absolute choice of building materials, but not a guarantee of indestructibility in the face of roaring flames. Although we do not have photos of the dramatic 1907, 1910, and 1911 fires, the town has seen many since. Pictured here are only a few, including the immense Southland Frozen Foods plant fire in 1954, the McGinnes Lumber Company fire in 1954, the Shuman’s Market fire in 1959, Gro-Mor in 1960, and Western Auto in 1982. Fire has wreaked havoc in the community of Plant City, but, in spite of the destruction and devastation, the community continues to come back, to rebound and to rebuild. This spirited community will continue to surmount the obstacles thrown into its way. Sources: Quintilla Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr. Plant City: Its Origin and History. Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., and PCPA Oral History Project 2005.

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

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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 BR/2BA w/ fresh paint inside & out new windows & doors listed @ $215,000 #103 NO HOA or deed restrictions.

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 @ 752-2087.

KEYSVILLE ROAD/ PORTER ROAD 24 acre and 10 acre groves. Owner ﬁnanced 9.2 Wooded Acres. Has Creek & Paved Road

Are you ready to sell your old grove? Buyers waiting, Call Stewart. 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.

Have investors looking for land. Call today! If you need to sell now is the time

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Carl “Sold” Seigel The True Real Estate Consultant

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36 Years Experience

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813-310-3388

1701 S. Alexander Street, Suite 104 • Plant City, Florida

Carl “Sold” Seigel The True Real Estate Consultant

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36 Years Experience

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�� 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!

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.

Terrific home Terrific location. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, 2 story home on 1.66 acres located on a cul-de-sac just minutes from I-4. This is a nice split floor plan home with all but one bedroom downstairs. Features a formal dining room area, living room and a kitchen with a nook.

Donʼt miss this one - Great home with a pool situated on over 1 acre of land. This beautiful split ﬂoor plan 3 bedroom 2 bath home with 3,179 square feet features a security system, ceiling fans, a formal living/ dining room, a Family room, and a great kitchen with a nook. The Screened in lanai and pool area is a great place to entertain or just relax. This is a very nice well kept home so call to day before it is gone.

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.

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.

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.

Very well kept immaculate two story home. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 car garage home with upgraded elevation. This home was built in 2002 and is still in like new condition with all natural colors throughout. Features nice size rooms with lots of windows and separate dining rooms.

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.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 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)

Executive Style Home with no maintenance Rare Find in Walden Lake Village Green Town homes! This great 3BR/3.5BA/2 car garage with a ton of living space for the dollar in this exclusive community features ton of storage space, a cozy ﬁreplace, cathedral ceilings, ceiling fans, skylights, Intercom System & a Bonus area (10x8) off the Master Bedroom that can be used as an ofﬁce or private sitting area. Call today to hear about the many other features that this home offers. BETTER HURRY - THIS WONʼT LAST LONG.

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.

Great Seffner location. This will be a stunning home when completed, the owner is currently totally renovating this 4 bedroom 2 bath home with 2100 square feet and on a double lot! The home will have all new cabinets, ﬂooring, and paint. If you move quickly on this you can pick your own color scheme! Inside will feature big bedrooms, an inside utility room with new cabinets, downstairs and upstairs is the large master bedroom with 2 walk in closets, large master bath and a computer area. Outside you have a large 8ʼx24ʼ new front porch, a 12ʼx24ʼ large back porch, a shed and a nice big yard to play in. call 813-752-8852 to view and learn more about this great home.

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

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

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

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OLD FASHIONED VALUES MODERN DAY FINANCING 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 ��

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Tony Lopez Loan Officer

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

Peggy Cook Consumer Loan Officer

Plant City@FarmCreditCFL.com

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We are Young, Beginning & Small Farm Loan Specialists

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

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

Stephany Brower Loan Originator

Competitive Rates

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

Visit our website: FarmCreditCFL.com

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408 East Baker Street • Plant City, Florida 33563 • 813-752-8200 NO CREDIT CHECK • FREE DELIVERY • FREE SERVICE • SAME DAY DELIVERY

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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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�� FL LIC CPC 050502

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

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12,995

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OFFICE: 813-677-7033 • SALES PHONE: 813-951-1323

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

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

FOR SALE: $ 10,000.00

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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 • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 71

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

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

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

�� IDEAL COMMERCIAL SITE!

“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

300ft. Of visible road frontage on highway 574 - 5 acres of C2 property, 1512sq.ft. of office space in remodeled building, new 6ft. Chain link fence makes this an ideal site for auto repair, retail sales, upholstery shop and a multitude of other uses! Priced to sell at $219,900!! #7

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

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 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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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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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

et out your calendars, note books, palm pilots, or tie a string onto your ﬁnger. Now, jot down, Thursday April 14th at 7pm at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club, second ﬂoor meeting room. That’s the night of the annual Walden Lake Community Association annual meeting and it’s going to be a special session.

The association rules and regulations have not been revised in some 20 years and it’s about time they were brought up to date. There are numerous references to previous developers who have been long gone, such as ESMark, the original owners, up to WCI, the last of the developers. Basically, wording will be changed to remove such references, along with many other changes. One of them is to reduce the size of a quorum now required to make any changes in the rules and regulations. It now stands at 746 residences necessary to pass any changes to the deed restrictions. Your writer, the original President of the Emerald Forest

Homeowners’ Association, has never seen attendance anywhere near that number for a meeting. The average over the years has been 120 to 140 people for the annual meeting. The proposal is to reduce the quorum to 112 residences. That’s quite a drop but business must be conducted. That old word relating to community affairs and politics comes to mind…. APATHY! Please attend at the Golf Club, Second Floor Reception Room, Thursday Evening, April 14 ,2005 at 7:00 pm. Board of Directors Election Also at the annual meeting, three directors’ posts are up for election. They are Glenn Allen, Eileen O’Leary and Jim Beier. Mr. Beier has decided not to run again and on behalf of everyone in Walden Lake, we thank him for his service to the community. Mr. Allen and Ms. O’Leary are offering their services for another term and we wish them well. Other candidates can be nominated from the Floor, or by Proxy ballot that

you should receive in the mail with a meeting notice. If not, call the association ofﬁce, Monday to Friday from 9am-1pm---754-8999. Best wishes to all candidates. Serving your community is an important endeavor in helping to maintain a top-ﬂight neighborhood. Odds ‘n Ends The association has voted to have stronger gates installed at the entrances that are closed at 10pm until 5am every day. This is to combat the rash of gate crashers who cause about $2,500 damage each time they drive through in the late hours. This time, the perpetrators will end up with severely damaged vehicles. Not that we wish ill of anyone, but enough is enough. The safety and security of Walden Lake is involved here. You’ve probably noticed that two cart bridges have been repaired along Timberlane. One was damaged when struck by a truck that lost control over a month ago. The occupant was hurt slightly. Her insurance is paying for that bridge. The other has simply

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seen its better days and had to be replaced. Now, for a moment of preaching…. Drivers, have you forgotten that you have turn signals on your vehicles? We’ve heard many complaints, especially people from out of state, who say that Florida drivers are the worst when it comes to signaling, especially when changing lanes. Note to Chief Bill McDaniel and Sheriff David Gee, we’ve seen a number of your lawmen fail to signal when changing lanes. How can you expect the public to drive properly when some of your own do not? And ﬁnally, to the Walden Lake gentleman who was turning north onto Alexander at mid afternoon recently, when a turtle was spotted in the middle of the intersection at Timberlane. The man stopped his car in the intersection, picked up the turtle and deposited it in the gardens at Walden Lake East, as other motorists cheered. You’re a good citizen! Till Next Month!

Ronnie Wingate

Nancy C. Wingate

Adam Spivey

Sharon B. Ours

Eves: 659-0274

Eves: 477-1625

Eves: 659-0274

Eves: 763-0856

813-752-5804 �� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 73

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New Construction 4/2 with large master suite and beautiful front porch. Great room plan with nice size lanai and 2 car garage. Ready by may 2005. Located in Pinedale Estates. Priced at $259,900. Call 813-719-1919

New Construction 3/2 great room plan, nice size kitchens, lots of closets, 1 car garage in nice neighborhood. Ready by march 1st. Call 813-719-1919. Available for $139,900

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

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Ofﬁce: 813.719.1919

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

863-667-1695 ��

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

HOME GUIDE

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

COURTESY OF SHELTON KEELY

REAL ESTATE AGENT NEEDED At some point during your search to buy or sell real estate, you will need the services of a real estate agent. Selecting an agent can be confusing. There is a way to determine who is most likely to succeed in helping you get your price and terms when selling, or ﬁnding the perfect house when buying. QUESTIONS TO ASK A PROSPECTIVE REALTOR. Do you work as a full time Real Estate Agent? How do you market your property? Do you have a full time Assistant to see that no details are overlooked? How do buyers contact you? Are you marketing real estate on the Internet? In what ways will you encourage other real estate agents to sell my home? Do you have a system to follow-up with other agents so that we get valuable feedback after every showing?

How many properties have you sold within the past 30 days? 90 days? 6 months? Do you have a list of references that I may check? Are you on the Internet exposing my property to millions of buyers instantly? What is my property worth? What listing price do you recommend? How did you arrive at that price? How will you assist in my relocation plans? Do you have a written Speciﬁc Marketing Plan designed to sell my property quickly and for top dollar? Are you afﬁliated with a mortgage broker that can assist the potential buyers? Do you guarantee my satisfaction by allowing me to exit the listing agreement at any time, if I am not happy?

THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME?

complex. Liability and disclosure can complicate the sale.

If so, there are two ways to go about doing it -- sell it yourself or engage the professional services of a realtor. Obviously, the advantage of selling the home yourself is you do not pay a commission. But, statistics show when you team up with a real estate professional, the chances of selling your home in a shorter time span (and frequently for more money) are much better. There are pros and cons to each technique. To determine which road you are going to take, start by asking yourself one question - If you needed a medical operation would you perform it yourself, or have a professional do it for you?

Perhaps the biggest obstacle a seller faces when they decide to market their own property is emotional attachment. Many owners are blind to ﬂaws that a real estate professional can see. And, a good realtor goes further and recommends steps the homeowner can take to make the property more appealing-a fresh cost of paint in the kitchen, replacing a rusty mailbox, or removing clutter to make the home appear more open. The objective view can be the difference in making a sale.

If the agent you are interviewing does not answer the above questions to your satisfaction, you should probably ﬁnd another who does!

Selling a house in today’s market is not like it was a decade ago. The market, as well as consumers, are much more astute and the laws more

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

90 DAYS SAME AS CASH 813-719-2246 1-888-858-3171

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

Over 47 Years Experience

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.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 75

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GOOD CENT$ IF IT MAKES GOOD CENT$, START SAVING WITH US TODAY

CLIENT SATISFACTION IS THE PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF MILLENNIUM ONE CONSTRUCTION. WE HAVE SUCCEEDED BY DEVELOPING SOLID RELATIONSHIPS THAT FORM THE FOUNDATION OF THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS.

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

OUR “FAMILY” IS COMMITTED TO YOUR FAMILY

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: ��

�� LICENSE# CGC 017850

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 77

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�� Residential & Commercial Cleaning Service

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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

Additional

•Refrigerator •Stove •Cabinets Straightened •Clean Windows Sills •Wipe Down Base Boards •Watering of any House Plants •Outside Window Cleaning

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

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Locally Owned & Operated (Owner on Site)

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“When we met Natalie, she immediately impressed us with her extensive knowledge of the Real Estate market and her willingness to take the time to share her knowledge with us and her easy no pressure sales approach. Natalie understood our time table and the need to sell our home in the St. Louis area before becoming serious about a purchase in Plant City. She took the time to understand what we were looking for in our “Ideal Home”. She kept us up to date on new listings even though we werenʼt quite ready. Natalie always worked with our time schedule and not her own, working countless hours researching new listings to meet our needs. With her dedication to serving her clients, we found our “Ideal Home”. We consider Natalie our ﬁrst friend in Florida.” Sherrie & Bob

Walden Lake Waterfront

Enjoy the Walden Lake lifestyle in this model perfect home. Fabulous great room offering a gorgeous waterfront view in one of Walden Lakes most desirable neighborhoods. Master suite has a luxury bath, 2 walk-in closets and private lanai entry.The Island Kitchen features load of cabinetry, smooth top range, breakfast bar and a spacious dinette. Oversized Garage, Extensive Landscaping, & extended screened lanai with brick paver patio. Too many upgrades and extras to list! $279,000 Act fast before this home becomes someone elseʼs “Dream Come True” Call Natalie today 758-9586

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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 • March 15 - April 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 • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 80

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HARDWOOD LAMINATE CARPET VINYL & CERAMIC

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FREE ESTIMATES! (813)783-8282 34120 State Road 54 W., Zephyrhills

KEEPS

CARPET ONE FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 81

Ameri-Can Waste, LLC

(A Plant City Roll-0ff Waste Company)

“Life, Liberty, & The Pursuit of Trash”

�� Check- Out Our Low Rates On: C&D (Construction + Demolition) Class III (Furniture, Cardboard,Plastic) Yard Waste (Trees, Brush, ETC.)

Container Delivery Same Day Possible 20yd., 30 yd., and 40 yd. open top containers

Permanent Use or One Time Use

You Are Going to Save a lot of MONEY!! Phone: 813-707-1393 Toll Free: 877-707-1133 Fax: 813-752-9701

E-Mail: AmericanRolloff@aol.com AmeriacnRolloff@aol.com

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

�� 813-767-6786 cell

The Artistry welcomes Angela Jones & Jesse Waters

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Congratulations TO THE TOP PRODUCERS OF RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE, INC. OF PLANT CITY Ken Lawrence

Cindy Clark New Associate Acheivement

Robb & Jo-An Lusk

Dave McCarthy Commercial NRT International Presidentʼs Circle

Jimmie Robinson International Presidentʼs Elite

Team Lusk International Presidentʼs Circle

International Diamond Society

(Top 4% of Coldwell Banker agents Worldwide)

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Inc. • 813-754-3586 • 1513 J.L. Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL 33563 Visit Us at www.floridamoves.com/plantcity

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

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

BUSINESS & FINANCE

INVESTING

Submitted by Edward Jones

Financial Focus WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN INVESTING IN MUTUAL FUNDS If you look at investment magazines and the financial pages of the newspapers, you will doubtlessly see advertisements trumpeting mutual funds earning breathtaking returns. Usually, though, these returns are just for the past year. If you really want to get a sense of whether a fund is a good investment candidate, you might want to follow these suggestions: • Don’t get hung up over recent performance- Many factors can explain a fund’s short-term performance - but some of these reasons are not really relevant to long-term investors. For example, a fund could consist of many stocks belonging to a “hot” industry; yet, this same industry could easily cool off next year. • Look for consistency - Try to find funds that perform well year after year, even in difficult market environments. While no fund can guarantee strong returns - or even positive returns - all the time, some funds continually outperform the market averages. • Study the fund’s managers - As you consider a mutual fund, find out as much as you can about its managers. How long have they been on the job? What sort of performance have they turned in? What’s their investment philosophy? It’s essential you know what to expect from a fund’s managers, and what their relation has been to the fund’s performance. In fact, if new managers have just come aboard, you might want to suspend judgment on the fund’s past performance. • Watch out for volatility - All mutual funds will fluctuate in price. You’re better off looking for those

funds with histories of relatively low volatility. Of course, some funds - such as growth funds - are, by nature, more volatile than other types of funds, such as bond funds. • Look at “value” - not just price - Mutual funds come with different fee and expense structures. Generally speaking, of course, higher expenses will cut into a fund’s overall return, so you will want to pay attention to these costs. And yet, even the “cheapest” funds aren’t good values if they don’t meet your needs. So, look ﬁrst for those funds that can help diversify your portfolio. • Compare similar funds - If you are choosing between one or more funds, make sure you are comparing funds that are similar in investment philosophy and size. It makes little sense to compare an aggressive growth fund’s performance and outlook with that of a growth-and-income fund. • Invest for the long term - When you buy mutual funds, choose those that you can envision holding for several years. If you sell funds that you’ve owned less than a year, you might incur short-term capital gains, which are typically taxed higher than long-term gains. But even more importantly, the more time you give a high-quality mutual fund, the greater the likelihood that it will overcome “down” periods and reward you with a strong performance. By observing these basic guidelines, you may be able to avoid some unpleasant surprises - while you build a portfolio of mutual funds that can help you meet your long-term investment goals.

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�� Michael Cameron 2501 Thonotosassa Rd. Plant City, Fl. 33563-1464 (In Publix Shopping Center) 813-759-1491 www.edwardjones.com

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

BUSINESS & FINANCE

BUSINESS PROFILE

STORY & PHOTOS BY CONNIE DUBOIS

HOME GROWN CANDLES

PROMOTES STRESS RELIEF THROUGH AROMA THERAPY phone industry. Myers is currently working on a cellular Amber Alert transmittal system that will be available to most cellular companies. This daytime job keeps Myers busy with twelve-hour workdays, filled with high levels of stress. It was because of these high stress levels that a friend introduced Myers to the art of candle making over five years ago as a means of stress therapy. According Rick Myers shows some of the products offered throughout his store. to Myers, n the back corner of Suite 2 of “Candle making involves extensive Shoppes at the Arcade, Rick Myresearch and development using ers practices a trade that dates back many technical formulas.” With well over 3,000 years, to the time his technical software developof the ancient Egyptians - the trade ment background, this was a hobby of candle making. However, times that Myers could relate to. He not have changed from those early only relates to this hobby, but he candles made of talo and animal greatly enjoys it. Myers has since fat. Today’s candles are made from expanded his stress therapy practice a mixture of paraffin wax with a into a lucrative business. “One of petroleum base, as well as natumy first candle scents was Apple ral soy based candles. When one Cinnamon”, states Myers. Through passes by the door of Myers’ shop, his extensive research and developHome Grown Candles, the fragrant ment over the years, there are now odors of mulberry, strawberry and 60 candle scents available at Home apple cinnamon, just to name a Grown Candles. few, beckon the window shopping consumer to step inside. Originally, Myers’ candles were sold in the Plant City Outlet Mall. A former IBM employee, Myers Due to his development of multiple now works as a software develscents and various types of candles, opment manager for Cyniverse the business blossomed and grew. Technologies, a company that Now Home Grown Candles can be develops software for the cellular found in various Plant City shops,

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

craft shows and local markets. In Myers’ ﬁrst year of business, his shop averaged 80 square feet of space, but now sports over 800 square feet in his newest location in Suite 2 at the corner of Reynolds and Collins streets. With the growth in business and in answer to public demand, Home Grown Candles also ships gift baskets to various locations across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Wholesaling has also helped Myers grow his business. Myers currently is organizing a large shipment of soy-based candles that will be sent to a customer in London, England. With this shipment, Home Grown Candles sports a global shipping resume.

offers strawberry scented candle tarts molded into the shape of real strawberries. What does the future hold for Home Grown Candles? “I am looking to be a wholesaler for candle makers, both professional and hobbyists,” says Myers. Items needed for candle making are very difﬁcult to locate and he hopes to offer items that will spurn more interest in candle making for hobbyists, and also keep supplies readily available for the professionals. In a world of high stress jobs with long work hours and difﬁcult problem solving tasks, one man has found his therapy for coping with the daily frustrations. Through the means of reducing his own stress, Myers brings a therapy to the customer in the form of relaxing aromas and mood inducing candles made from Home Grown Candles.

Home Grown Candles caters to the customer looking for anything dealing with candles or aroma- therapy. The shelves at this shop offer various candle and aroma- therapy related items made from local artists around the state. Myers believes in promoting the talents of local candle and aroma themed artists and many of their unique items can be found throughout the store. Candles in the shapes of tarts, votives, tea lights, car fresheners, as well as some bath and body items, can all be found in this shop. Candle burners, both ﬂame and electric, are also located on the aromatic shelves. In theme with Plant City’s strawberry business, Myers even Wicks are carefully placed into each candle by Myers.

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EDUCATION

STORY & PHOTO BY KRISTEN TONEY

CHURCH AND CHICKEN WINGS

OUTBACK TEAMS UP WITH SOUL’D OUT YOUTH MINISTRIES because their parents want them to. But hey, a little extra incentive never hurt anyone. The incentive for Feb. 2 was free food! On this first night of the Winter Youth Explosion, Outback of Plant City fed the first 250 students to arrive in the building for free! Wings and chicken fingers were on the menu, and glancing around the facility, it was apparent that approximately 300 students arrived to Outback employees and youth group members Erin Rowell and Jeremy Platt serve up wings and chicken fingers to the youth of Plant City Church of God. take advantage of the opportunity. It n any given Wednesday basketball uniforms, a huge variety was exactly the outcome that Tyler evening, the youth building of young people pass through the Williams, Outback’s manager, was at Plant City Church of God opens doors of the Soul’d Out building hoping for. its doors to welcome teenagers on a regular basis. Fellowship,

from all walks of life. From the bouncy cheerleaders to the more contemplative learner, from those in cowboy boots to those in

fun, music and a priceless message are all offered to these kids each week. Most of them come because they want to… and maybe some

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

“We just really wanted to work together to beneﬁt the community,” Williams said referring to Mike

Nelson, the church’s youth pastor. “I’ve worked with Mike before on other projects, and some of my employees are members of his youth group. I really feel that he is a positive inﬂuence in the community; I hear about it from so many people. It’s good to know that we can help each other.” Nelson commented, “He wanted to do this as a means of reaching out to the community. He is a very generous businessman who believes in the community, and he heard how we develop students and felt it was a very worthwhile project to work together on.” It appears the merger was a success! “We love Outback!” a group of young girls chorused in unison, raising their chicken ﬁngers in a salute to the organizers of the evening. This is simply another example of individuals with a vision coming together to nourish the youth in our city, and in the process, offering not only sustenance for their bodies, but also for their souls.

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

SPORTS

Tires N’ Stuff

STORY BY BOB HUGHENS

PLAY BALL!!

I WE WILL CUSTOM ORDER ANY TIRE THAT YOU NEED

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

t was a perfect day to kick off another season. There was a slight chill in the air, the sun was shining, the birds were singing and the players of the Plant City Youth Tee Ball League looked sharp in their bright new uniforms.

Saturday, February 19, was the day the 2005 season got under way at Mike Sansone Park in Plant City. The games began at 9:00 a.m. and all the players were eager to show their coaches, moms, dads and friends just how good their baseball skills were. Some were more athletic than others, but everyone got the same opportunity to go up to the plate and hit, run and catch. By the end of the games, it appeared that everyone had a great time. These youngsters played so hard and with so much determination every time they came to the plate or went out on the ﬁeld, it was evident that some of these players are going to be tomorrow’s star

athletes. The Tee Ball League is a division of the Plant City Little League group. It is comprised of children in the 5 and 6 years old age bracket. To be eligible to play, they must turn 5 years old before July 31. The requirements of the league are that parents must provide the child’s birth certiﬁcate, provide proof of residency and pay the $80.00 registration fee to enroll. The league is comprised of 10 teams. The teams making up the league are: Team name (Sponsored by) The Volcanoes (Focus Magazine) The Lug Nuts (Lott-Mather) The Bats (Papa Johns Pizza) The Rock Hounds (G & W Maintenance)

SPORTS

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The Volcanoes (Sponsored by Focus Magazine) Front Row: Jonathan Ontiveros, Shawn Gossett, Zane Floyd, Juan Gonzalez, Edmilly Molina, Middle Row: Salomon Mendoza, Brett Speaks, Gresham Stephens, Jake Koisa, Gavin Donini, Benji Padgett Back Row: Coach Olan Stephens, Coach Justin Speaks, Coach Jim Koisa

This column is to take a few moments to express our sincere appreciation to have served you these past 20 years. It has meant so much to care for so many wonderful people. We have witnessed over the years that God has chosen some very special people we call our patients. What a blessing to see many organizations, events, and numerous activities we have helped to sponsor, be successful, and Bless many. With chiropractic care, patients can experience less pain, fewer illnesses, and can gain an understanding of how your environment, lifestyle, and personal mind-set affect your health. Even our dedicated massage therapists are such a blessing to assist in whole body wellness. Also, we custom tailor relief for • Whiplash • painful joints • Frequent headaches • Low back, hip, or leg pain • Slipped discs, sciatica • Neck, shoulder, arm pain • Tight muscles or numbness • Nervousness, loss of sleep • Pain between the shoulders. Therefore, as you look to your future for better health consider the documented benefits of chiropractic care. Remember God loves you and so do we . . . .

The Thunder (Tim Grifﬁn Construction) The Iron Birds (Elks Club) The Sea Dogs (Sparky’s) The Rattlers (Excel Printing) The River Dogs (Copeland Steel)

The Blue Claws (Cherry’s) The schedule for the league calls for games to be played from now until the middle of May. At the end of the regular season, a single elimination tournament will begin to determine a league champion. The tournament will begin on the Monday after the ﬁnal Saturday game is played by each

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The Bats (Sponsored by Papa Johns Pizza) Front Row: Jarret Brown, Andy Webb, Andrew Lee, Bailee McFadden, Travis Cross Middle Row: Ty Ackett, P.J. Carter, Colten Smith, Cole Washington, Ryan Sellers, Connor Futch Back Row: Coach Duane Lee, Manager Brian Webb

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

SPORTS

team. School should be out by then so as not to interfere with the games. If you get pleasure from watching baseball and want to be thoroughly entertained, come out to the ball park and enjoy watching this talented group of youngsters show their stuff.

You will love it! Besides, the fresh air will do you good. We at Focus Magazine will be reporting on the teams in the league throughout the season so make sure you pick up your copy of Focus each month. PLAY BALL!!

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Front Row: Chase Schneider, Tyler Hood, Chase Lawson, Travaris Gayner, Dylan Robinson, Halley Smith Middle Row: Michael Petty, Jacob Lytel, Trent Kerrigan, Alejandro Bueno, Alan Vasquez Back Row: Coach Steve Schneider, Manager Chad Morrow, Coach Eric Lawson, Coach Jeff Robinson

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

The Sea Dogs (Sponsored by Sparkys) Front Row: Trevor Gay, Jacob Cathren, Tyler Stephens, Austin Eldridge, Carl Duggan Middle Row:Rigoberto Mendoza, Koby Weaver, Josh Duke, Steven Witchoskey, Noah Pawlowski Back Row: Manager Mike Witchoskey, Coach Jim Duke, Coach Matt Cothren

SPORTS

STORY BY BOB HUGHENS

VARSITY BASEBALL FUNDRAISER unday, February 27 was the S date of the Plant City High School Varsity Baseball fundraiser held at and sponsored by Outback Steak House in Plant City. Mr. Tyler Williams, proprietor of Outback, coordinated the luncheon fundraiser by donating 100 meals for the baseball team to sell, and sell them they did! The team raised $1500.00 and was able to replace their old and missing uniforms for brand new ones. Getting new uniforms certainly raised the morale of the team as they started their new season.

As with many high school sports programs, donations from local businesses are the primary source for funding and events like this one are a major contributor to their program. Coach Kenny White explains, “Being a ﬁrst year coach and familiarizing myself with the community, I’ve found that fundraising is one of the hardest parts of the job. I would really like to thank Tyler and his Outback team for helping us kick off our season on such a positive note. As a team, we appreciate the fact that local businesses in the community support our program and take interest

in helping us make it better for the kids.” We totally agree with Coach White. If you or anyone would like to help support Coach White and his team with a donation of any kind, please contact Plant City High School at (813) 757-9370. Donations of any kind would be greatly appreciated. Go Raiders!

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

HEALTH & FITNESS

STORY BY DR. JOHN CARROZZELLA • SAND HILL BONE & JOINT

JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY P

rior to the 1960’s, Orthopaedic Surgeons mainly focused on the treatment of fractures and injury. Setting broken bones and applying casts were the staples of Orthopaedic practice. Then things changed dramatically. In England, a surgeon, Sir John Charnley, refined a revolutionary treatment for people who were suffering the ravages of joint arthritis. Total joint replacement was born and millions have since seen dramatic reduction of their pain and improvement of their lifestyles as they have had their hips, knees and other joints replaced. Initially, the focus was on hip replacement. Dr Charnley was an innovator who tried a wide variety of materials, from stainless steel to cobalt chrome and Teflon, to very durable polyethylene plastic. Over the years, joint replacements have been refined, using space age materials such as titanium and ceramics. Today’s Orthopaedic surgeon has a wide choice of implants from a variety of suppliers to match the exact implant necessary to each patient’s needs.

Most people needing a joint replacement suffer from osteoarthritis. This is often a disabling type of joint degeneration. The lining material of the joint wears out and deteriorates with age, use and activity. With people today living longer and longer, their joints simply wear out. In the past, the only treatments available were pain medication and radical surgical measures that often did not produce the pain relief or functional improvement that we can see today with joint replacement. When a patient comes to the ofﬁce with progressive arthritis, initial treatments range from pain medication to anti-inﬂammatory arthritis pills, to physical therapy, to cortisone injections. When all of these things stop being effective, joint replacement surgery becomes an option. Today, hundreds of thousands of hip, knee, shoulder and other joints are being replaced each year, almost as a routine. Patients are seeing dramatic increases in their activity level and decreases in their pain after this surgery, which is one of the most successful and satisfying operations ever devised.

Orthopaedic Surgeons have reﬁned the techniques of joint replacement over the years. In the past, these surgeries often required prolonged hospital stays and a substantial risk of complications. Today, however, patients will usually experience short hospital stays of 2-3 days, rapid return to activity and complication rates as low as 1-2%. Many hospitals are developing joint replacement centers that focus on delivering high quality, consistent and reproducible outcomes. Here in Plant City, we are fortunate to have South Florida Baptist Hospital, which has made just that commitment. The administration of that hospital, along with the local Orthopaedic Surgeons, is developing the Bone Joint and Reconstructive Center at South Florida Baptist. This program is designed to bring high quality, progressive and cutting edge joint replacement surgery to this local area. The most current advances in joint replacement are now available here in Plant City, close to home. In 2004,

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Orthopaedic Surgeons in Plant City started offering the Minimal Incision / Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement to appropriate candidates. Plans are underway to bring Computer Navigated Joint Replacement to this community sometime in 2005. And South Florida Baptist Hospital has developed and is in pilot trials of a pre operative “Joint Camp” designed to teach patients about their upcoming surgeries and to increase the likelihood of a successful surgery. Joint replacement surgery today is a successful and satisfying surgical intervention. Patients who have undergone these operations have seen dramatic improvements in their pain and increases in their daily activities. In Plant City, we are fortunate to have surgeons with the skill and a hospital with the commitment to provide these miraculous operations to the people of our community.

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

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HEALTH & FITNESS STORY BY SHERRY NUEESCH

I’VE FALLEN AND I CAN GET UP!!!

all down seven times, get up eight times. That is an old Chinese Proverb. I like it a lot. I have fallen down several times. Obviously I’ve gotten up more than I’ve fallen. Sometimes it took me awhile. I’ve always liked what the motivational speaker Les Brown said, “If you fall down, fall on your back. If you can look up, you can get up!!!” Success in most things, for most of us, did not come overnight. It’s those small baby steps done every day, day after day, week after week, that make all the difference. Many of us made New Year’s resolutions. Most of us did not keep them. I think the reason why is that we fail to plan for success. We make resolutions, sort of like a wish, hoping something is going to change. When it doesn’t, we forget about it and give up. Sometimes we give it the good old college try. We go gang busters for a few weeks and then “real” life gets in the way. You know, that other 24 hours we had already ﬁlled to the max before we decided to add more to that long day. Something has to give. Usually it is the most recent, the newest addition. When adding anything new into our life, we need to decide what we are going to give up. Most of us already use up all 24 hours of our day. So we have to plan. Decide on the priorities. You want to get ﬁt and healthy? Then decide what is going to go and what is going to be added. Make a plan, how, what, when, and where the change is going to be made.

people that were able to make up their mind one day and be something different the next. Most of us make very small changes and do it very slowly. Let’s say you drink 6 sodas a day. You could baby step your way by giving up a soda a day every week. By the end of 6 weeks you could be soda free. Want to add some exercise? Plan three half hour workouts at Curves. That is one and a half hours a week. Plan on what you are going to give up. Give up the one thing that you are most likely to stick with. Remember to baby step yourself to success. In my office I have a saying that I have had there since I first got into business for myself 23 years ago. I don’t remember who said it. I live by it. It goes, “Big shots are little shots that keep shooting”. Never, ever stop shooting. Eventually, we get it right. Eventually, we find what clicks for us. We always do. John Ruskin, an English author, wrote, “What we think or what we know or what we believe is, in the end, of little consequence. The only consequence is what we do”. So just do it, one little step at a time. If you need some help and motivation, we are only a phone call away. Curves knows how to help you baby step your way to success. That is why we are the largest in the world! You, too, can become part of the phenomenon at Curves. Have you fallen? We’ll get you up!!!! As always, to your health. Sherry, 813-719-1822

Next, you baby step your way there. Put one little foot in front of the other. I haven’t known many FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 95

EXTRA

STORY BY AL RUECHEL

THE EPIDEMIC WE CAN’T ACCEPT! It’s an epidemic we have come to accept. In 2003, in the U.S., 7 out of every 10 African-American babies were born out-ofwedlock. Now, wait at minute. The number of out-of-wedlock births among whites was 3 in 10. Maybe I’ve become numb to the downward spiral. Just some more numbers! Then, I saw this number…800 thousand. That’s almost one million children! When I said this statistic, I nearly fell out of my anchor desk chair. That is the number of children in the state of Florida who do not know the names of their biological fathers. The number in the U.S., according to government statistics, is estimated at between 20 to 27 million. These are kids that don’t know their names, because their mom’s don’t know who impregnated them. They don’t know their names because their mom’s don’t want their children to know. They don’t know their names because their moms didn’t care who they went to bed with. They don’t know their names because their biological fathers are no better than a bunch of pigs wallowing from sow to sow, rolling in their own excrement. When this country collapses in its own moral sinkhole, historians will look back at these numbers and our total disregard for human life and lack of sexual discipline, which is now reminiscent of the Romans or the Greeks.

What gets me most is that we have come to accept children being born out-of-wedlock as if it’s progress. Recently, a 57-year old unmarried woman gave birth to twins. The media swarmed this proud mom. Oprah had her on TV. Editorials praised this scientific accomplishment. One of my co-workers thought it was “so cool.” What courage and what determination to finally get what she wanted so badly. When I asked her if she didn’t think the woman was being selfish and would likely be dead before either of her children get married, she looked at me with a blank stare, “Who says her kids have to get married!” What is she thinking! It’s not just about the woman, what about her kids? Are they just her play toys or pets? Don’t they have a right to have the love and guidance of a father? What do you tell them? “Your father loved you so much that he deposited his sperm in a test tube for $50 bucks a shot and didn’t leave his name.” “Well, I was just too busy and, you know, Mommy just couldn’t find any man she loved enough to get married.” “You don’t need a daddy. I’m here and can give you everything you need. And there’s your Uncle Netska, he can play with you whenever you want. You don’t need a daddy!” Let me state this clear and loud! The best environment for raising children is a loving father and mother in a committed relationship. There is not one single

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

study that contradicts that ideal environment. Those who think just a mom or just a dad or just a gay man or a lesbian women can provide all the needs for a child are nuts. My wife and I have four wonderful children and it has taken every ounce of energy in our bodies to pour into them the lessons they need to be good, caring, loving, God-fear beings. Kids desperately need the influence of two parents, a man and a woman, who bring their own gender unique qualities into the parenting mix. That’s the way God intended it. That’s the way it works best. Unfortunately, because we don’t live in an ideal world and men and women don’t always get along and provide the loving and nurturing atmosphere children deserve, we live in a society where kids are forced to adapt to whatever garbage some pass off as parenting. Children survive and live because there is no other choice. My own parents got divorced when I was seven. I hated it and cried my eyes out for years. I wanted so badly to find “that piece of paper” and burn it. That would show them! But I survived because I was determined not to let the events ruin my concept of love or my optimism about the future. God poured a supernatural amount of acceptance and tolerance into my life for my alltoo-flawed father and step-mom and real mother.

Still, when we set the bar, when we determine what the ideal standard is for raising healthy, well-adjusted and happy people, why do we set our standards so low? Are we afraid that proclaiming marriage and two parent families as the ideal is a slap in the face for the hundreds of thousands of adults who can’t meet that standard? Maybe it is a slap, but we all know it is the truth. I do respect the many single parents I know who are working so hard to be the best they can for their kids. We should offer as much support and encouragement as we can. But we should also stand up and scream from every street corner, “Every kid deserves the right to have a mom and a dad.” Your personal “satisfaction” or your “need to have children” just because modern science can make it happen out of the natural bonds God designed should not be tolerated. We should want the best for all children. When we sit back and accept that 800-thousand ﬁgure, or the 20 to 27-million, as the cost of doing business in our society today, we have given up on our future. I’m not willing to make that kind of sacriﬁce.

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BACK UP YOUR STUFF! All too often I have people in my shop crying and whining because they have just lost everything that they have been saving for 8 years. My response is always the same, “It was important enough for you to save, but not important enough to back up?” I have gotten to the point where I really don’t have any sympathy for people who don’t back up their stuff, because we have been telling everyone this for 10 years now. People have heard it over and over, but they think, “It won’t happen to me”. However, when it does happen, they cry and whine, “How could this have happened?” My response is usually, “How does a battery go out in a car, how does an alternator go out, how does a tire go flat.” These are all mechanical or man-made items that will, at some point, fail. I own a computer shop and I’ve had my machine crash on me, but I had my data backed up. Now I would like to take a moment to point out how to back up. There are many options available today; the floppy disk, the cdr, the dvdr, the handi-drive or flash drive, the external hdd are among the most popular.

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 98

There are also many different ways to back up data to these devices and many different programs you can use to accomplish this. I personally like to make my back-ups simple. I still use a zip drive to back up Quicken data files, Quick Books, or any program with an automatic back up feature that I have. I also like to use cdr’s to make back-ups of important data I have, such as websites, documents, power point presentations, and much more. I have also become very fond of the handi-drive, or flash drive, which is about the size of toenail clippers and can fit in your pocket comfortably. The flash drive is very easy to use because when you plug it in, it shows up as a hard drive and you can click, drag and drop to copy files. If you do not have a program with an automatic back up feature, the click, drag and drop is the best way to back

up data because you can pick what you want and drop it in the back up device. You can do this with cdr’s also, in Windows XP. When you are backing up data, you do not need to back up the entire program. For example, if you use Quicken, you only need to copy the Quicken database file commonly named Qdata. To find this file, you can type qdata in the search for files or folders feature in Windows, or you can go into Windows Explorer, Program files in C: look for Intuit or Quicken and click on the program. When you see the qdata file you can click, drag and drop to your handi-drive that could be drive e: for example. Just remember that practice makes perfect and it is easier to learn how to back up your data and back it up regularly, than it is to lose it all. Off site storage is another form of backing up for business or end users with very important data. Businesses such as law firms and doctors offices utilize offsite storage through other companies, or as simple as a secretary making back-ups and taking them home every weekend. It doesn’t really matter how you do it, what matters is that you do it, because you never know when you may have a fire (just look at Collins Street) or anything that could permanently damage a machine and make it impossible to retrieve data.

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

STORY BY BRIAN WEST PHOTOS BY MIKE FLOYD

2005 MERCEDES-BENZ C320 SPORT SEDAN THERE’S JUST NOTHING LIKE A BENZ

uring this test drive I learned something; if you have ever owned a Mercedes-Benz, any model, you’re probably still driving a Mercedes-Benz. In fact, many Mercedes-Benz owners are still driving their first and only – even 10 or 20 years later. MercedesBenz is truly a quality car, and the 2005 C320 Sport Sedan is no exception. The C320 Sport Sedan has all the comforts one would expect in a “Benz” at an affordable price, and has proven to be a very popular car. In fact, Ken Cooper, General Manager, Central Florida Euro Cars, said the C320 is their best seller. After driving it, I could easily see why. Not only is the C320 very affordable, you wouldn’t believe how well the car rides, and handles, especially given its size. The first thing you notice about the C320 is its size. It has a 107” wheelbase, which is a little on the shorter end when compared with other Mercedes-Benz sedan models. But the ride is incredibly smooth and road noise is almost non-existent. The stance is wide and the styling is athletic with sleek lines; easily identified as part of the Mercedes-Benz family, even without seeing the emblem. Like other carmakers, MercedesBenz models no longer use a key,

only an electronic fob. The fob is placed into the ignition just like a key, but the ignition recognizes the fob electronically, allowing the car to start. Interior features include 10-way power front seats, each with 3-position memory linked to a Smart Key user recognition feature. There is an optional 320-watt harmon/kardon sound system that includes 12 speakers with surround sound and a 6-disc changer in the glove box. There is also a sunshade in the rear deck that tucks away neatly at the touch of a button. I really liked the rear lighting while driving in reverse. With the car in reverse, the backup lights illuminate an area about 10 feet to each side of the vehicle. For those who struggle to back up in a car, let alone in the dark, this feature really helps.

the accelerator pedal was ﬁrm. The C320 has a V-6 engine with 215 hp that shifts very smooth. The 0-60 time is rated at 6.9 seconds: plenty of power for merging onto the highway or quickly getting around slower vehicles in two-lane trafﬁc. The C320 also comes with powerassisted 4-wheel disc brakes.

Drivers get a multifunction steering wheel, which includes controls for the radio, as well as power adjustments up, down, and telescoping for the steering wheel. The driver also has the option of using the driver-adaptive 5-speed transmission, a Touch Shift feature that allows the driver to operate the automatic transmission as a manual, at will.

When it was time to return the car I really had a hard time parting with it. The MSRP of the model I drove was $37,850; with additions the sticker was $43,450. So, if you’re curious about the C320 or any of the other Mercedes-Benz models, stop by Central Florida Euro Cars. Central Florida Euro Cars is located on Lake Parker Avenue in Lakeland, FL, just north from Highway 98 South. Even though I was just there for the test drive, I can tell you their customer service is outstanding.

I drove the car around town and on the highway and was completely amazed at the smoothness. The steering was very responsive and

The C320 Sport Sedan not only has all these great features, but also has some impressive safety features. There are 8 standard air bags; dual stage front air bags, 4 side-impact air bags, and curtain air bags providing head protection for all four passengers. There is an Occupant Classiﬁcation System, which automatically turns the passenger’s front air bag on or off – or adjusts the inﬂation rate – based on the weight of the occupant.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 99

EXTRA

STORY BY & PHOTOS BY KRISTEN TONEY

DISNEY’S WILDERNESS LODGE BACKWOODS ADJACENT TO BIG CITY

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

t’s that time of the year again. The time when Christmas break is a little too far behind, and Spring Break is a little too far ahead. You’ve just gotten back into the rhythm of your normal daily life, but the weather is nearing that perfect stage in Florida, and you fear one more weekend spent in your home ofﬁce while the kids sit in front of the TV may severely damage your immediate outlook on life. If you’re looking for a place for your family to escape the noise and bustle of the everyday stresses, yet you’re not willing to stray too far from home, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is the perfect place for a weekend getaway! First of all, the name “Wilderness Lodge” does the resort no justice whatsoever. In the mind of the average person, a wilderness lodge is a small cabin somewhere on the edge of nothing, surrounded by vegetation so thick the oncoming mosquitoes cannot be seen until it’s too late, and if there’s a plumbing emergency during the weekend, well, you’re simply out of luck. No

such fate will be met in this lavish eight-story hotel, complete with 55-foot authentic totem poles and an 82-foot stone ﬁreplace, presenting quite an overwhelming view as soon as one enters the lobby. If the vision of the architecture isn’t enough, have a glance out the tall-paned windows at the rear of the hotel and try to take in the pool, putt putt golf course and winding trails, all situated at the edge of Bay Lake and surrounded by pine trees as tall as those found in any U.S. National park.

with two queen beds, armoire, TV, nightstand, table with two chairs and even a wall safe to protect your valuables. The bathroom adjoining the room consists of an open dressing area, large mirror, double sink and a separate toilet and shower area. Although the standard room offers more than enough to keep the family comfortable, the opportunity to move up to a Junior Suite or even the Concierge Level is readily made available. Wake up in time to watch the sun rise over the lake, and then enjoy a nice breakfast served in your room with the family. Take a “Wonders of the Lodge Tour” directly after breakfast and learn about the numerous Indian artifacts displayed throughout the hotel. Be the family chosen to participate in the ﬂagraising ceremony atop the resort roof, and take in a view of Walt

If the view of the lake isn’t what you’re after, you can request a room with a view of the courtyard, the woods or the parking lot. Just a standard room features 344 square feet tastefully ﬁlled The hotel’s lobby alone invokes silent awe from all who enter.

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

Disney World that you will never forget. Pick a spot to share lunch, and then let the kids have some fun with the daily Disney Trivia Contest. Go on a family treasure hunt or leave the kids in the capable hands of those in the Cub’s Den, while you and your spouse enjoy a romantic sunset cruise. Torrey and Polly Herrin recently spent a weekend at the Wilderness Lodge with their two children, 10-year-old Noah and four-yearold Karson. “We all agreed that our favorite restaurant was the Whispering Canyon Café,” Polly said. “The food was absolutely incredible! We stayed in a suite, and we were really impressed with the accommodations and the service. It would deﬁnitely be worth going again…just the lobby on its own was amazing!” If Disney is a favorite location for your family, then the Wilderness Lodge is a great place to stay: centrally located, with easy boat travel to the Magic Kingdom and prompt buses to deliver you to all other objective locations. However, a weekend at the lodge alone would easily be ﬁlled with more than enough activities to keep all family members occupied. For more information on Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, call (407) 8243200 or visit their website at www. kingdommagictravel.com

A few of the outdoor water attractions at the lodge

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

STORY & PHOTOS BY SOPHIA DEDON

GIRALDO’S ORIGINAL CUBAN SANDWICHES

CONVENIENT TO YOUR TIME, CONDUCIVE TO YOUR TASTE

t all began when Mike Sparkman walked into a gas station and had some of Jack Roig’s cooking that he knew he saw potential. Working closely with Jack, Mr. Sparkman and his son, Chris, have opened up a new restaurant in town, within a Sparky’s gas station. Giraldo’s has been open since October and they still have not completed all the work they envision investing. Although it may be new in our town, it still managed to win the Best Cuban Sandwich award by the readers of Focus. Stop in and try the Cubans and you will understand why.

I had the pleasure of not only trying the delicious Cuban sandwich, but everything else on the menu, too. I was so surprised at how impressive the food was because I never realized you could get such a meal in a gas station. They not only have Cubans, but also ham and cheese, turkey and cheese, roast beef and cheese, and meatball sandwiches.

For sides they have black beans and rice, Spanish bean soup, devil crabs, and stuffed potatoes. I must say that out of all the food I tasted, my favorite was the devil crab. I had never even had it before, or heard of it, but decided to try it. I was so impressed. Not only do all these options sound appetizing, but not one is over $3.99. I always associated gas station food with what you get when you’re in a rush or on a road trip, but you can order from Giraldo’s and then have a seat at a booth or a high top table. Not only can you taste how good the food is, but for any obsessive compulsives we may have, feel conﬁdent that everything is in the state of superb cleanliness. If you do not trust me, look for yourself. You can actually choose to watch them make everything; to be sure it’s how you like it. Additionally, I must remark on the staff, too, because they were extremely friendly and willing to

help. They were very accommodating and they treat their customers well. The Sparkman’s hope is that their new business will flourish. They are already looking into establishing more Giraldo’s in some of their other stores. If it becomes a big enough success, it could potentially grow into a franchise. However, all big dreams begin as small goals. During your lunch break when you have limited time but are tired of fast food, come make a quick stop at Giraldo’s where not only can you satisfy your hunger with a hot meal, but also fill up your gas tank. In a world that rushes life at such a fast pace, Sparky’s has fulfilled its expectations as being a “convenient store” and has everything you need at one stop. Not to mention, they make your life easier in other ways, too. If you are throwing a party and want to impress your guests, then let Giraldo’s

help you. For $35.99 you can have a platter with 20 stuffed potatoes and eight whole Cubans. However, it’s really 32 Cubans, because they slice the sandwiches into hand-sized pieces. Additionally, they offer a mini devil crab platter for $29.99 for 30 or $54.99 for 60. If you only wanted some of the mini stuffed potatoes, you can get a platter of 30 for $10.99, or a platter of 60 for $19.99. They do the work for you. All you have to do is pick it up, bring it home, and set it out one the table for everyone to see and eat. I’m sure most of us are tired of the same old Cubans that are brought to most social gatherings. Change tradition up a bit and bring Giraldo’s Cubans to your next event. Giraldo’s earned its title of Best Cuban in Plant City and also deserves a “Most Convenient” award, if you ask me. Come decide for yourself and see if you agree.

Giraldo’s 2210 N. Park Road 813-752-7693

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

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

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

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

STORY BY SOPHIA DEDON PHOTOS BY BILLY FRIEND

BRINGING CHRISTIAN MUSIC TO THE FESTIVAL MICHAEL W. SMITH PROVES TO BE A GREAT CHOICE

By the end of his performance he had everyone in the grandstands on their feet singing his hit songs for him. At one point he sang his “Friends Are Friends Forever”, but only sang the chorus through once and then let his fans take over while they all chanted “And friends are friends forever, if the Lord’s the Lord of them...cause a lifetime’s not too long, to live as friends”. As he left the stage the crowd was in an uproar shouting for him to return for an encore. They did not stop until he returned to the stage for one last song. The entire audience was captivated in the moment as Christians across the stands closed their eyes and raised their hands up to God singing “Our God is an awesome God”. Once again, Michael W. Smith was able to sit back and worship while he let the fans continue singing. When it came time to select the artists that would be invited to perform at the Strawberry Festival this year, the foundation decided to switch tradition up a bit and invite a Christian artist. Michael W. Smith is a Christian musician who has been performing for more than two decades, having made 18 albums, and written more than 200 songs. If the Strawberry Festival was going to invite any Christian artist, clearly they would pick the most

renown and well-liked artist in the industry. His fans include young teeny-boppers all the way through their grandparents. Rarely can one performer appeal to such a wide range of tastes. Michael W. Smith is from Franklin, TN, and of all places, decided to perform his ﬁrst concert of 2005 right here in Plant City. It would be an understatement to say that the crowd enjoyed his performance.

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

Of the thousands of performances he has done over the past 20+ years, the crowd at the festival was most fortunate to hear him sing one of his songs that he could never remember performing live. He felt convicted to sing a song about God always being there, waiting for us when often it’s because we have no idea what we’re waiting on. When we are not close with God it’s because we have chosen to separate ourselves and God is just waiting

on us to return. Smith said that this was the ﬁrst concert he had done in many years where he put on a pop concert, just hitting the highlights of his career. Usually he is touring for one of his recently released albums. Michael W. Smith proved his musical capabilities as he began by opening the concert on the piano. Then, he went to simply lead vocals as he showed the emotion in his music by standing at a lone mic. However, he also showed his ability to play his guitar, as well. At his home church he helps lead worship and he brings that same God praising ability to all his shows. He has proved himself to be a well rounded musician, putting all he has into his music. After performing at both the 4:00 and the 7:30 time slots, the festival organizing people should feel proud having him for a guest. Fans from all over the area came together to hear one of the greatest Christian artists of the current day perform right here in Plant City. Once again, the Strawberry Festival organization has impressed everyone with their skill of managing to get top-notch performers to take the stage during the community-uniting, eleven day, fun-ﬁlled Strawberry Festival.

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

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

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

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT MOVIE REVIEWS BY SHERRI ROBINSON

theater was full of kids that might ordinarily be disruptive, but instead, were captured by the excitement. Serious gasping was going on and shouts of “Don’t go in there” rang through the air. Cursed was a fun, scary movie. I may have been the oldest person in there, but I had just as much fun as everyone else. Warning: There are some frightening and violent scenes in Cursed, so use discretion in letting young children see it. Rating 3

CURSED - PG13 Starring: Christina Ricci, James Brolin, Portia De Rossi, A brother and sister are making it on their own after the death of their parents. An accident turns their life upside down when they discover the

horrible creature that came from the woods and killed the driver of the other car is not just a wild animal. Physical changes begin to appear and their friends are getting weird. Can it all be stopped before it’s too late? Though the movie was not interactive, the audience was. The

MAN OF THE HOUSE - PG13 Starring: Tommy Lee Jones, Kelli Garner, Shannon Marie Woodward, Terry Parks, Anne Archer Seeing a murder can not only be dangerous, but a real drag when there’s no phones, no outside activi-

ties and no skimpy clothes allowed. Bummer! When University of Texas cheerleaders accidentally witness a murder they are taken into protective custody by Texas Ranger, Roland Sharp (Jones). It’s tough for Sharp to put up with a house full of beautiful, rowdy girls that have other plans. If the girls are going to stay alive it is up to him. Man of the House was fun and entertaining. Tommy Lee Jones did a ﬁne job in a less serious role than we are used to seeing him in. Go enjoy Man of the House. Rating 3

HITCH - PG 13 Starring: Will Smith, Eve Mendes, Kevin James, Amber Velletta Hitch (Smith) is the “Date Doctor,” a consultant for love. While

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

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

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT he transforms the love lives of other men, he quickly becomes “off his game” after becoming infatuated by beautiful gossip columnist, Sara (Mendez). She is all about getting the scoop and the “Date Doctor” becomes her target before she realizes he is the same man she has been dating. Now she is just mad and is more determined to get to the bottom of it all. In the meantime, Albert (James) is madly in love with heiress, Allegra (Velletta), who doesn’t know he’s alive. He hires Hitch to help him and ﬁnds more than conﬁdence. He learns that everybody has a chance for love. This was my favorite movie this month. It is the perfect date movie or a night out with the girls. Rating 5

CONSTANTINE - R Starring: Keanu Reeves, Rachel Weisz, Max Baker, Djimon Hounsou, Tilda Swinton John Constantine (Reeves) is up to his neck in evil. His job is to send evil back where it belongs. A young

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young children or even anyone else who has anxiety or fear issues. This movie will scare you. Rating 4

DVD/VHS RELEASES March 15 Incredibles • Final Cut March 22nd Fat Albert • Being Julia Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason Finding Neverland March 29th After The Sunset • Closer April 5th Spanglish • Elektra • Sideways female detective (Weisz) needs his help to ﬁnd out what happened in her twin sister’s death. He is reluctant but is ﬁnally persuaded. They both get more than they bargained for. Constantine is plagued by his own demons that may ultimately end his life. Constantine is a movie of acquired taste and does not appeal to the general audience. However, the previews may lure many more

into the theater than just actual fans of suspense, horror and thriller movies. Though Constantine was well put together and the special effects were great, I can not let that overshadow the fact that I need to put a warning on this movie. It contains some real controversial issues and major evil supernatural content. Parents, take this advisory seriously. Constantine is not for

April 12th Oceans 12 • Suspect Zero Seed of Chucky April 19th Hotel Rwanda • Meet the Fockers Birth • House of Flying Daggers April 26th Racing Stripes

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 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

Shelby’s & Jacob’s Java 110 Reynolds St E 719-6570

Alexander’s Café at S Fla Baptist Hospital 301 N. Alexander St. 757-8451

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

Snellgrove’s Restaurant 109 S Collins 752-3652

Checker’s 2405 Jas Redman Pkwy 759-0151

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

Orange Blossom Tea Room 106 Evers St S 759-2247

Grandpa Johnsons BBQ 1305 Dr MLK Jr Blvd 759-0009

Outback Steakhouse 1203 Townsgate Ct 759-4329

Heavenly Sinsations Inc. 1803 Jas Redman Pkwy 717-7512

Papa John’s Pizza 1829 Jas Redman Pkwy 719-7300

China King Restaurant 2410 James Redman Pkwy 754-8098

Hong Kong Buffet 213 Alexander St W 764-8255

Park-side Café 101 E J Arden Mays Blvd 719-8345

China One 1862 James Redman Pkwy 707-8898

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

Pesos Mexican Restaurant 2006 Reynolds St W 752-8841

China Palace 1106 Collins St S 754-7145

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

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

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

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 Ava’s 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

Curbita Inc (Only speaks Spanish) 4109 State Rd 574 754-0620

Kazbor’s Grille 2212 James Redman Pkwy 752-2700

Dairy Queen 1902 W Reynolds 752-2236

Kentucky Fried Chicken 2305 Collins St S 752-0437

Denny’s Restaurant 2001 Frontage Rd S 752-3338

La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant 113 Prosser Dr W 659-3940

Domino’s Pizza 202 Alexander St W 759-9424

Linda’s Crab Shack 202 Reynolds E 754-0492

Pizza Hut 2316 James Redman Pkwy 752-8222 Pizza Moni 2607 Thonotosassa Rd 759-6664 Plant City Restaurant & Drive-in 2005 W Baker St 752-9202 Ponderosa Steak House 1914 Jim Redman Pkwy 754-1129

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 Taco Loco Restaurant 14672 Dr MLK Blvd 659-0916 Tim’s Café 10903 Lithia Pinecrest Rd 737-4026 Twistee Treat 2301 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-9303

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

Wafﬂe House 1201 Townsgate Ct 707-0190

Quackers Café 1707 James Redman Pkwy 759-2233

Westshore Pizza 1701 S Alexander St 754-5600 Whistle Stop Café 102 S Collins 752-7340

El Buen Gusto Michaocano 3414 Baker St W 759-6635

Lin’s Express 2307 Thonotosassa Rd 719-6066

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

El Mirasol Bakery Cafeteria 1419 Collins St S 752-2108

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

Shanghai Chinese Restaurant 805 Collins St S 759-0518

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

Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q 1102 Goldﬁnch Dr 757-3118

Woody’s Bar-B-Q 203 Alexander St W 754-3229

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15 - April 15 • 2005 PG 113

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

Best Southern Food Youʼll Ever Eat!!

Now at 2 Locations Serving You!

Breakfast Lunch Dinner Buffet or Ala Carte Catering •

•

Mon - Sat Closed Sun •

2120 Harden Blvd. �� Lakeland, Fl. �� 863-603-7080

1401 W. Dr. MLK Blvd. Plant City, Fl. 813-752-7763

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

March 23rd Wednesday Workman’s Compensation Seminar at the Plant City Parks & Recreation Department. Begins at 11:00 AM until till 3:00 PM. For information and reservations call Janet Kelly at 754-5997. March 26th Saturday Easter Egg Hunt March 26 at the Otis M Andrews Sports Complex, 2402 E Cherry St. Formerly at HCC’s Plant City Campus. Program Director Deborah Haldane is the event coordinator. For more information, call 813-757-9160. March 27th Sunday The Westside Baptist Church would like to announce and invite everybody to our Grand Reopening on Easter Sunday (March 27) 2005. There will be great singing, dynamic Preaching and a truly wonderful Spirit to celebrate our New beginning, in our New facilities, with our New Pastor! Don’t miss this historical event as we cut the red ribbon to our newly refurbished facilities. All are encouraged and welcome to come. Our address is 2505 W. Granﬁeld Ave. Plant City, 33563. For more information, please call (813)752-1450. April 2nd Saturday Spring for Education Fashion Show at the home of Rick & Di Lott, 3200 Polo Place, Plant City. For reservations call Sheryl Boggs at 813-754-8242. Annual Children’s Fun Festival on the ground at Hillsborough Community College, Park Road, Plant City. For information, please call Sharon Everidge at 813-7521683 or Marsha Passmore at 813754-2301. Bike Fest in Historic Downtown Plant City. Starts at 5:00 PM. April 8th – 9th Friday - Saturday Come join us for a Wild West

Weekend as we present to you our Sermon on the Mount at the Lazy W Arena, 2105 E. Trapnell Rd., Plant City (south of Plant City, 2.1 miles east of Hwy 39 on south side). Our Sermon on the Mount features internationally renowned horse trainer and speaker, Lew Sterrett, who uses horses to illustrate basic principles of living and character building. We are convinced you will ﬁnd Sermon on the Mount a life changing experience. Admission is free and it is for the whole family! On Friday, the Horseman’s Workshop (max 15 riders) is from 9 am to 5 pm, dinner from 5 pm-6 pm, and Sermon on the Mount from 6:30-8:30 pm. On Saturday there are family activities, fun and games, beginning at 12 noon, Sermon on the Mount from 3-4:30 pm (kids in special program), followed by dinner at 4:30 and Kid’s Rodeo immediately after. The Sermon on the Mount that evening is from 6:30-8:30 pm, with Q & A following. Free admission, concessions, prizes, and bring your lawn chairs. For more details, call Mike or Nicole Larkin at 813-996-5618, or email them at mmlarkin@juno.com. April 9th Saturday The Southern Star Bluegrass Band is appearing at the1914 Plant City High School Community Center. General admission is $10.00 and reserved seating is $12.50. For additional information contact Myrle Henry at 813-752-4094. 14th Annual First Baptist Church “Good News for Fast Times” Golf Tournament. Call the church ofﬁce at 813-752-4104 for information. April 10th Sunday The First United Methodist Church will present another concert in its FINE ARTS SERIES. Doug & Linda Tidwell will share a unique blend of original contemporary music, humor and real-life stories. The concert will be held in the

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

Wesley Centre at the corner of Reynolds & Evers Streets in downtown Plant City. This free concert begins at 7:00 PM.

additional information, please call 813-717-9127.

April 11th Monday

Strawberry Square Dances: 4401 Boot Bay Rd., Plant City. Square and Round Dancing at Strawberry Square, where dancing is a pleasure.

Program on Orchids, presented by Master Gardener JoAnne Whale at the Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McClendon St., Plant City, Fl 33566. Program begins at 7:00 pm. For additional information, please call 813-7579216. April 12th – 18th Tuesday Monday Sun N’ Fun at Lakeland Airport. April 15th – 16th Friday Saturday Annual Relay For Life of Plant City. The event takes place at Plant City High School. This is a community gathering where everyone can participate in the ﬁght against cancer. Teams of people camp out on the athletic ﬁeld and take turns walking or running around the track. Each team will have a representative on the track at all times during the event. These relays are an overnight event, up to 24 hours in length. Jodi Smith is Chairperson for this event. You can call her for information at 813-754-3703. April 16th Saturday The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce 8th Annual Strawberry Classic Car Show, with the Herb Sheldon Variety Band performing at 6::00, 7:00 and 8:00 PM. May 21st Saturday 1st Annual St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Golf Tournament at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Registration is at 7 am, there will be coffee, juice and continental breakfast. Tee time is 8 am, lunch in the Clubhouse at 12:30. Auction, awards and prizes will take place immediately following lunch. Please send registration and/or sponsorship commitment and all monies to: Dinah Helton, 1903 Country Club Court, Plant City, Fl 33566. For

General

Tuesday nights: Mainstream/Plus dancing 7:30-9:30 pm Saturday nights: Plus dancing with Rounds 7:00-9:30 pm Come dance with us in an air conditioned, smoke free facility with a floating hardwood floor and visit our Square Dance Apparel Shop. For schedule and information call: 813-752 1491 or visit our website: www.floridadaanceweb.com/ strawberry Teen Nights (1st or 2nd Friday of each month) and our Kid’s Night Out (1st or 2nd Saturday of each month). Contact Recreation Supervisor Jaci Jenkins or Special Events Coordinator Steve Rossiter at the Planteen Rec Center for info at 757-9166. Several new programs are being planned at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Recreation Center following renovations there. Recreation Supervisor LaTosha Lewis is coordinating the center and can be reached at 813-7579195. Free and open to everyone, scrap booking and card making. Every Tuesday evening from 6:30pm9:30pm at Shiloh Baptist Church (905 W. Terrace Dr. /PC, 33563). Contact Samantha Long at 7528345 for more information. Plant City Dolphins Youth Football and Cheerleading open registration Saturday 3/12/05, 4/9/05 and 4/23/05. Location: 2602 East Cherry Street Plant City , FL Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. For more information call Buddy Bennett at 813-752-7479 or visit our website at www.plantcitydolphins. com. Registration is being held from 9 am to 2 pm.

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

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