FOCUS PC 05-09 Sept 2006 by Floyd Publications

LOCAL • REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS • SPORTS • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT VOLUME 5 NUMBER 9 • SEPTEMBER 15, 2006 - OCTOBER 15, 2006

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LOCAL 7-30

There were several events this past month that happened around town. An important one for the agriculture industry, particularly strawberry growers, was the annual Agritech. Focus attended the event and will bring you up to speed on the things affecting this industry. Several Plant City businessmen and volunteers came together to raise money for the Boys and Girls Club of Plant City who needed to supplement funding that was cut to continue offering their services to local children. The Strong Leader Banquet was hosted by the YMCA to honor Cindy Churchill for her extensive work at the Steppin’ Stone Farm. At the Plant City Armory, the 4-H club teamed up with the National Guard to help the families of soldiers in Iraq. The club provided a fun, entertaining atmosphere for the children, while the spouses of the soldiers were able to receive counseling to deal with the struggles they are facing.

HOME GUIDE SECTION 93-119

This section is dedicated to buyers, sellers and owners.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT 156-166

The Ramada Inn Red Rose Dining Room replaced their dance floor. It is approximately 2.5 times larger than it was before. This is exciting news for those in Plant City who love to dance and just need somewhere to have some fun. The Dining Review this month features Alexander’s Café, the cafeteria-style restaurant that can be found at the South Florida Baptist Hospital. Be sure read this article so you don’t miss out on what they have to offer.

FEATURE 33-47

Football season is upon us once again. It consumes the lives of children and parents who are involved in local teams. This season, Focus put the spotlight on the players and coaches of local high school teams, Plant City and Durant, as well as local youth football teams. Inside you will find photos and rosters of all the teams, as well as schedules so that you can make time to go out and support these young men. Antioch Redskins are not featured because they declined to participate.

ON THE COVER Jeremy Fussel (Durant) and Derrick Hargrove (Plant City) are the quarterbacks for the local high schools. Photo by Mike Floyd. Stories on pages 34-41.

BUSINESS FOCUS 51-99

This month you have the chance to get to know 24 businesses that are here for you. Read the story behind the companies you frequently see around town. This is Part 3, the final of three sections that will feature the businesses you trust. We hope you have enjoyed this three month series featuring the businesses you know and love.

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PLANT CITY EDITION PUBLISHER Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Linda Floyd linda@floydpublications.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Kristen Toney ktoney@floydpublications.com MANAGING EDITOR Sophia Dedon sdedon@floydpublications.com OFFICE MANAGER DeDe Floyd dede@floydpublications.com CREDIT MANAGER Bob Hughens bob@floydpublications.com SALES Tania Summers tsummers@floydpublications.com Terrie Cameron tcameron@floydpublications.com Shannon Davis sdavis@floydpublications.com Tisha Howard thoward@floydpublications.com ART DIRECTOR Stefanie Burlingame sburlingame@floydpublications.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Anthony Sassano asassano@floydpublications.com DISTRIBUTION Tony DeVane PHOTOGRAPHER Billy Friend STAFF WRITERS Brian West, Ken Lawrence, Debbie Bowers, Joe Bowles, Sherry Baldwin, Holly Mallalieu, John Garrod, Daniel Sperry, Heather Davis, Cheryl Johnston CONTRIBUTORS Sherry Nueesch, Gil Gott, Johnnie Byrd, Shelton Keely, Michael Cameron, Bruce Rodwell FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at sdedon@floydpublications.com. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed to 10,000 homes.

published by:

ﬂoyd publications, inc. 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. • Plant City, Florida 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 4

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 5

letter FROM THE EDITOR

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Back in the day, kids could look up to sports heroes as someone they could emulate, root for and strive to be like. 40 years ago there were many little boys whose dream it was to grow up and be just like Mickey Mantle or Joe DiMaggio. The Olympics have also produced many heroes who set a good example of what life could be like if one was willing to work hard and persevere. I think of what Wilma Rudolph had to overcome in order to win three gold medals in the 1960 Olympics in Rome. We’ve had the likes of Jackie Robinson, Jesse Owens, Ted Williams, Willie Mays, Johnny Unitas and more recently Michael Jordan, Jerry Rice and Tiger Woods, all of whom set good examples for our children. But it seems in more recent times we hear a lot more about the negative aspects of the sports arena, such as steroids, hormones, doping or gambling, as well as spousal abuse, rape and on occasion, even murder. We have seen arrogant attitudes on television by a few athletes who seem to think because they are who they are, they can say or do anything and get away with it. We’ve even seen stories about a parent becoming so enraged at a volunteer referee during a hockey practice that he accidentally murders him. According to a recent Kaiser Family national survey of kids and their parents about famous athletes as role models, children are getting mixed messages, both on and off the ﬁeld. But 75% of the kids believe that famous athletes teach them that being a good sport and playing fair are as important as winning. As you can see in our feature this month about various youth football leagues such as the Florida Youth Football and Cheerleading Association, the West Coast Youth Football Conference and even high school football, youth sports are a very large part of today’s Americana. They are supposed to teach our kids to grow up and become diplomatic, fair-minded, balanced adults who have learned to be a responsible team player in the game of life. We all would like our kids to become the kind of human beings highlighted in some of our local stories, such as the one on Operation Military Kids where 4-H teams up with the National Guard to support military families during difﬁcult separations due to deployment. We also tell you about the generous work of the Plant City Boys and Girls Club Board of Trustees who, together with some volunteers, held fundraisers to subsidize after-school child care for 11 and 12 year-olds when the state decided to withhold the government aid which had previously funded it. Some parents and coaches occasionally seem to forget what youth sports are supposed teach our youngsters. If only the adults and children could come away with the lesson learned as quoted by Grantland Rice, “For when the One Great Scorer comes to write against your name, He marks not that you won or lost - but how you played the game.” We hope you enjoy these stories of yours, and as usual, thank you for your readership and support.

Linda Floyd

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 6

LOCAL

TALK

of the

town

Plant City Native Kimball

tial, commercial and indus-

“It’s More Than Just Short-

Wetherington is selling 640

trial tracts.

cake!” The festival made BizBash’s top 100 Events

acres in eastern Hillsborough County. Higgenbo-

At the August meeting of

for 2006. The list is com-

tham Auctioneers Interna-

the Board of Directors of

posed of events that have

tional will be auctioning off

the Florida Strawberry Fes-

an impact on the state every

the acreage in 23 parcels.

tival, Lane Wetherington

year. The festival draws

The parcels range in size

was named Associate Di-

more than half a million

from one-acre home-sites to

rector. The vacancy result-

people annually.

a 320+ acre ranch. The auc-

ed from the prior elevation

tion will be held Saturday

of Sandee Parke Sytsma

Congratulations to the

October 14 at the Ramada

from Associate Direc-

award recipients from the

Inn in the convention room.

tor to full Director status.

Salute to Agriculture Con-

This will be the largest

Wetherington is a native of

tact Breakfast. The Agri-

auction in memory for the

Dover and has been a full

business of the year was

Plant City area. Another

time strawberry grower for

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one of the tracts includes

24 years.

Savings and Loan. Ag Educator of the Year was Pam

a 232-acre industrial tract that is located inside the

The theme for the 2007

Walden, and Agriculturists

Plant City corporate limits.

Strawberry Festival has

of the Year were Debbie

The sale includes residen-

been decided and it will be

and Larry Swindle.

Focus Magazine wants to know what is going on in YOUR life. People have exciting things happen to them everyday and sometimes wish they could tell everyone. Well, now you can. If you have an announcement you would like to share with Plant City, tell us, and we will put it in our Talk of the Town section. There are drop-oﬀ boxes and notepads located around town for your convenience. Right now, a few box locations are Fred’s Farmer’s Market, Grandpa Johnson’s, Natural Creations, The Whistle Stop Café, Curves, and Manhattan Mortgage. More locations are to come, so keep your eye out for the Talk of the Town boxes. If you would prefer to call in your exciting news, the number is 813-707-8783 x 21. Focus Magazine cares about you and wants to share in your excitement.

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Story and Photo by Holly Mallalieu

Strong Leader Award

PLANT CITY YMCA HONORS CINDY CHURCHILL FOR WORK AT STEPPIN’ STONE FARM

Churchill was recognized for her dedication to “Steppin’ Stone” Farm over the past 30 years

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 8

o “build strong kids, strong families, strong communities” is the goal of the YMCA, and every year the Plant City YMCA selects a member of the community who puts this motto into action through their lives. Cindy Churchill, wife of First Baptist’s Pastor Ron Churchill, was the recipient of the award this year. It may have been a complete surprise to her, but no to anyone who knows Cindy or anything about her. Through her work at the Steppin’ Stone Farm, she

has not only touched but helped incredibly change the lives of so many girls. Steppin’ Stone Farm, founded by “Grandma and Grandpa” Keiser in 1973, is a place for troubled teenage girls to go for guidance, discipline and positive values. But because girls are placed there against their will, it isn’t always an easy transformation. Cindy has been there herself; she knows ﬁrsthand the hurt, anger, and fears, but also the hope of the girls who arrive. At the age of fourteen, she was rebellious, using drugs and skipping school. When her parents discovered the farm, she was placed there for the required year. Under an emphasis on a strong work ethic, counseling and above all, spiritual

change, Cindy transformed her life through a newfound relationship with Christ. The Keisers became like parents, in a very real sense, and now, to every girl at Steppin’ Stone, she is the same. On August 24th, the Plant City Y presented Cindy with the Strong Leader Award, recognizing her for her endless dedication and the wonderful example she sets, not only for the girls, but for everyone. Friends of Cindy shared the blessing she has been in their own lives, and praised her for her unyielding faithfulness to the Steppin’ Stone Farm. For all of the sacriﬁces she has made and love she has acted on, Cindy is indeed a strong leader in our community, and it is a pleasure to honor her.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 9

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SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM Story By Bruce Rodwell

Chamber of Commerce Do you have your tickets? On Saturday, October 7th the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will be drawing the winning ticket for the 2006 HARLEYDAVIDSON DYNA WIDE GLIDE motorcycle. The drawing will take place in historic downtown Plant City at BIKE FEST, which gets underway at 5:00 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Unity in the Community Pediatric Prescription Fund and the United Food Bank & Services of Plant City. Tickets are $20 each or if you buy five at the same time, you’ll get a sixth one free! Tickets are available from Chamber Ambassadors, Board members and at the Chamber office at 106 North Evers Street in Plant City.

Four-Plex. Early registration is available up to September 21st at the Recreation & Parks offices at the Plant City Stadium Complex, 1904 South Park Road. There will also be on-site registration available the day of the event. Participants ages 6 to 15 will fish from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. They will be competing for prizes in the following categories: first Bass caught, most fish and largest fish by weight. In the casting contest, a prize will be awarded to the participant that hits a bull’s eye. For more information, call Steve Rossiter at 813-659-4255. ★★★★★★★★★★

You will not want to miss this special 4th Annual Bike Fest. It’s a great family fun time with lots of good food and hundreds and hundreds of motorcycles of every make, size and shape. Come on downtown and join the fun. ★★★★★★★★★★ Congratulations to CINDY CHURCHILL on being selected this year’s YMCA STRONG LEADER. ★★★★★★★★★★ At the New Teacher Coffee, which was held August 1st, the PARTNERS IN EDUCATION program was presented. This was Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Chairman, Danny Coton’s initiative. Kelleigh Klein spearheaded the project. A total of 23 schools each received a check for $425.00. Sponsors for this very worthwhile project included Jennifer Closshey, Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library, The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Hillsborough Community College, Tampa Electric Company, Sparky’s Oil Company, Wal-Mart Supercenter, Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, Outback Steakhouse, South Florida Baptist Hospital, Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan Association, Trinkle, Redman, Swanson, Coton, Davis & Smith, P.A., Donco Realty, Johnnie Byrd, Sr. Alzheimer’s Center, Allcare Rehabilitation, City Properties, Edwards, Platt, Raulerson, Coakley & Company, P.A. and Poppell Insurance. ★★★★★★★★★★ The Plant City Recreation & Parks Department will hold a KIDS FISHING DERBY AND CASTING CONTEST on September 23rd at the pond off Albertson’s Drive, behind the Randy Larson

On September 22nd and 23rd the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library will present a mystery dinner theater featuring the MILD, MILD WEST. This will be presented at Magic Moments Hall & Gardens, 2207 Mud Lake Road. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. followed by a rollicking good time, as you are transported to a world of mystery and intrigue by the BRUTON MEMORIAL PLAYERS. During this sure to be fun-filled evening, you will be joining the cast for a vacation at a not so typical Dude Ranch. Then, as a member of the audience you will attempt to solve the whodunit, with a little help from resident sheriff, Annie Hokely. Cost of this exciting evening of entertainment and great food is only $35 per person. Tickets are available at Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan and at the Holiday Inn Express on Park Road. For additional information about this event contact Hal Brewer at 752-4949 or Pat Eifler at 267-0593. ★★★★★★★★★★ Don’t miss out on the joys of dancing! Learn an easy, fun and fast method to start dancing with any partner…on any dance floor. The RAMADA INN is offering lessons every Monday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Red Rose Dining Room. The cost is $10 per session. Susan Stanton, the instructor, has been teaching dance for years and she has a passion for helping individuals learn to dance. Come to the Ramada Inn and learn to dance with confidence. For more information, call Susan at 863-604-5060. You will not want to miss the 10th Anniversary celebration of DIAMONDS & DENIM, which is being held this year in the brand new Expo Building on the

Strawberry Festival Grounds. The date is Thursday, September 28th. There will be a live band, silent auction, fantastic food and lots of fun. This great event beneﬁts the South Florida Baptist Hospital Parish Nurse Program, Wellness on Wheels and Children’s Health fair, to name a few. For additional information and tickets, call Judy Martin, Executive Director of the SFBH Foundation at 813-757-1277. This is one event you will not want to miss. As the name implies, it’s denim and fancy western shirt… You can even wear your best western hat!

Harold’s Outdoor Products fishing seminar held at Bill Heard Chevrolet, Park Road. Starts at 6:45 p.m. September 20 – Plant City Children’s Theatre Teen Dance “HIP-HOP CLINIC.” Takes place at Plant City Theatre’s location, 507 North Wheeler Street. Call 752-1683 for information. September 21 – Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce BUSINESS AFTER HOURS. This month’s event will be held at The Tile Barn, 1103 Goldfinch Drive, (behind Buddy-Freddy’s). Starts at 5:15 p.m. This is a free event and open to the public. Call the Chamber office at 754-3707 to RSVP.

★★★★★★★★★★ Friday, October 13th is the date for the PLANT CITY LIONS CLUB ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNMENT. This event will be held at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. You can sign up as an individual player, or bring your own team to support the Lion’s Club and its efforts to help underprivileged children throughout the Tampa Bay area. Your registration fee will not only reserve your spot for a beautiful day of golf, prizes, fun and sun, but will also show you have the heart of a lion when it comes to kids. Registration forms are available from Jodi Smith. You can call her at 813-757-8574. Tournament sign-in is at 11:30 a.m. with a tee time set for 1:00 p.m. The format is a four-person scramble. Space is limited so get your registration in before October 1st.

September 21-22 – Mystery Dinner Theatre at Magic Moments. Starts with dinner at 6:30 p.m. September 23 – Fish Derby at pond behind Albertson’s on Albertson’s Drive off Park Road. Registration at 8:00 a.m. September 25-30 – Care Fest 2006. Call Norm Blanton for details 752-4671. September 28 – Diamonds & Denim to beneﬁt South Florida Baptist Hospital. October 5 – GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City Spaghetti dinner, at the Club’s location, 1110 North Wheeler Street in Plant City. Take-out’s are available. Call Alise Sollenberger at 659-3397 for additional info. October 7 – 4th Annual Bike Fest in downtown Plant City. Starts at 5:00 p.m.

★★★★★★★★★★ Save this date…Saturday, October 21st. PIONEER HERITAGE DAY comes to Plant City. This will be the East Hillsborough Historical Society’s 29th Annual celebration. The event takes place at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 North Collins Street. There will be food vendors, live entertainment all day, a civil war display, model train exhibits, arts & crafts, baked goods for sale, music entertainment, games for kids, a fantastic camera exhibit and an artist’s exhibit, to name but a few. All proceeds beneﬁt and support the restoration of the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center.

October 7 – South Florida Baptist Hospital Health Fair at the Arthur Boring Building on the Strawberry Festival grounds. Starts at 9:00 a.m. and goes until 2:00 p.m. Call Sarah Raines at 757-8511 for info. October 11 – Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Contact Breakfast at the Ramada Inn. Guest speaker is Steve Mercer of the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. Starts at 7:30 a.m. Call the Chamber ofﬁce at 754-3707 to RSVP. October 14 – Downtown Plant City Antique Street Fair. Sponsored by the Downtown Plant City Merchants & Business Association. Call David Schultz at 752-6085 for information.

For information and applications to participate call 813-757-9226. HERE ARE SOME DATE TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR: September 19 –Bill Heard Chevrolet &

SUPPORT OUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS. BUY THEIR PRODUCTS AND USE THEIR SERVICES. IT JUST MAKES SENSE!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 10

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SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM Story and Photos by Holly Mallalieu

Summer Rhapsody

A NIGHT OF GOSPEL, BROADWAY, POP AND MORE

t’s true that too much of a good thing is bad, but what about a great thing? Saturday night, August Jennifer Jackson singing 19th, the Patsy Cline’s “Crazy” audience gathered for First Baptist Church’s annual “Summer Rhapsody” undoubtedly left with the feeling that they could have never had “too much” of such a great performance. It’s no wonder that this is the fourth consecutive year in a row. The night was a series of spectacular performances. Before the singers took to the stage, Anne Haywood of Bruton

Memorial Library opened the evening with an enthusiastic excerpt from The Prince of Tides, later followed by another reading by Bruce Rodwell. First to introduce herself was April Smith, a young college student with a voice as powerful as if she’d been singing for years more than her age. Her choices for the night were Broadway musical pieces, including “Popular” from Wicked and “Unexpected Song” from Song and Dance. Following April was Virginia Helper, pianist, composer, singer, as well as city clerk for 34 years. Accompanying her were Chavonda Bush, Jerelle Dupont, Chris Panier and Pamela Williams. Together the group sang old gospels so well that even if you didn’t know them you found yourself adapting quickly to the catchy beats. Sandi Norman chose a number from

“Evita”, and was later joined by the also young and remarkably talented Jacob Reilly in “Think of Me” from Phantom of the Opera. Pete Bataglia, First Baptist’s music minister, had energy so exciting and sincere you couldn’t help but enjoy.

First Baptist Church. Dodie White and Marsha Passmore organized the performance, and did a wonderful job. It’s surely an event looked forward to.

Jennifer Jackson followed suit and sang a great solo of “Crazy”, as well as a beautiful duet with her son, Reilly, before he stole the stage himself. The event was extremely successful and went to raise money for restoring the Cornerstone Center, the old

Chavonda Bush led the audience in upbeat gospel songs, along with four other singers

Sandi Norman chose a piece from “Evita” as well as doing a duet of “Think of Me”, from Phantom of the Opera

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 12

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SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM Story by John Garrod

Henry Blackaby Spiritual Leadership Conference EXPERIENCING GOD IN PLANT CITY

n October 13th and 14th, Somebody Cares Tampa Bay and Shiloh Baptist Association, with help of other Plant City churches, will host a Spiritual Leadership Conference featuring guest speaker Doctor Henry Blackaby. The conference, held at First Baptist Church of Plant City, is designed for parents, teachers, lay leaders and ministers desiring to learn more about helping people draw closer to God.

Dr. Henry Blackaby is the author of the tremendously successful “Experiencing God” course, which has strengthened the spiritual walks of Christians around the world. To date, it has sold over four million copies, and has been translated into 50 different languages. His son, Dr. Richard Blackaby, has coauthored several books with his father, and will also

be speaking at the conference. The elder Blackaby’s experience spans much farther than just being the author of “Experiencing God.” He has established a training institute, spoken at international conferences, and preached and taught for Focus on the Family, the Billy Graham crusade, Promise Keepers and others. His son, also a proliﬁc writer, has served as a senior pastor and president of a Baptist Seminary in Canada. On Friday, October 13th, the event starts with a Business Leaders Breakfast at the Ramada Inn in Plant City. Dr. Henry Blackaby will be speaking on the subject of “Integrity in the Workplace.” Event co-organizer Norm Blanton, who heads up Somebody Cares Tampa Bay, says

one goal of the breakfast is to unite local business owners. “Integrity in the workplace is a common issue today, regardless of whether a business is Christian-owned or not,” says Blanton. “By addressing a common denominator, we hope to open doors to relationships amongst local businessmen and women.” Businesses and churches are encouraged to sponsor tables in advance for employees and guests. Tickets are $12.50 if purchased in advance, and $15.00 at the door. “We’re hoping that Christian business people will take this opportunity to reach out to non-Christians and invite them to the breakfast. The event begins at 7:30 Friday morning,” says Blanton. On Friday afternoon, from 2:00 to 5:00, there is a session minister-

ing speciﬁcally to pastors and their wives. Beginning Friday evening and running through Sunday, First Baptist Church will be hosting concerts featuring music inspired by the “Experiencing God” devotional courses. Saturday is the main conference, with a morning session beginning at 9:00 and an afternoon session starting at 2:00. First Baptist Church of Plant City is located at 503 North Palmer Street. For free tickets to the evening concerts, call the church at (813) 752-4104. Registration for the main conference is also free. For further information on the conference, contact Shiloh Baptist Association at (813) 754-6740, or check out the details online at www.PCBlackabyconference.org.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 13

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Story and Photos by Holly Mallalieu

Home Sweet Home WHAT MAKES IT IS FAMILY

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After retiring from her job as a library assistant, she and her husband decided to make her dream come true. It took awhile, but ﬁnally the two found what they were looking for, and in 1993 they packed up their things and moved into the very same house they’re in to this day. It couldn’t have been a better time to leave Miami, recalls Mays, because Hurricane Andrew had hit there only a year before.

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EXPECT MORE. COMING SOON

Pearlie Mays

“I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me.” Psalm 13:6 Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

TELL YOUR TALE

or Pearlie Mays and her husband, ﬁnding a home in Plant City was a Godsend. It often takes time to ﬁnd the place you’re supposed to be, but when you do, you know. Before moving, the couple lived in Miami, and spent many years migrating back and forth here to visit Mays’ sister-in-law. There was something about Plant City that Mays always adored, and because of that she decided that one day, just one day, she was going to call this town home.

Not too long after the move, Mays’ children began slowly trickling in to Plant City behind her! Now, after being here for 13 years, four of the 6 children she raised live in Plant City, as well. One of her sons even traveled all the way from California. As satisﬁed as Mrs. Mays is with Plant City, it’s her wonderful church family that completely makes it home. She is an active member of St. Marks Baptist Church, and is so happy she was able to ﬁnd such a caring, loving congregation to be a part of. Mrs. Mays absolutely loves this town, and has no future plans for leaving whatsoever. With her husband, children, grandchildren and a church family as well, this is clearly home.

Mays recently made this diarama for her church’s annual “Calendar Tea”, a fundraiser put on by the congregation. It represents her grandparents’ home as she remembers it growing up, and also symbolizes that “God has always been, is, and will always be with His people.” FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 14

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Story and Photo by Sophia Dedon

Finding the Hope

OVER $9000 RAISED FOR BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

here’s an old saying about lemons that when given a Plant City twist goes something like... when life gives you strawberries, make a strawberry milkshake. For the Plant City Boys and Girls Club, when they lost some funding they had been depending on, the board stepped up and held a fundraiser to make up the difference.

grams such as after-school activities for the children due to a lack of funding. Therefore, with the help of Bill Davis, Jimmy Carapezza, Fred Johnson and several other volunteers, the ﬁrst annual Back to School BBQ Dinner was held on Thursday, August 10.

Previously, the club received state government aid that provided funds for subsidized care for children ages 11 and 12. The state has chosen to stop providing this funding, and at the end of the school year will also cease funding for ten year olds, with 9 year olds following the year after that.

Nearly 500 chicken dinners were prepared by Fred Johnson and his team at Grandpa Johnson’s. With the successful sale of the dinners, as well as the 37 sponsors of the event, more than $9000 was raised for the club. The funds raised will be used to provide positive after school activities in the Plant City community at the two Boys and Girls Club locations in town.

The Plant City Boys and Girls Club Board of Trustees was unwilling to watch the club have to cut pro-

The Boys and Girls Club is a nationwide organization daily impacting and inﬂuencing the lives

of children. Club activities include homework assistance, computer learning, healthy snacks, sports, visual arts and chorus. They also emphasize developing the students

into leaders to help make the community a better place. When cloudy days come our way, it’s good to know this community can remain strong to help ﬁnd the sunshine.

With the help of several sponsors (some shown above) and the sale of nearly 500 dinners, the club was able to raise over $9000.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 15

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Story by John Garrod

Florida Hunting HOGS, DOGS, AND DEER

hile the summer heat still has most people headed to Florida’s beaches and lakes, kids going back to school serves as a call to another outdoor activity. For us, it’s time to break out our camouflage, take out our bows, clean our rifles, and head out into the woods for hunting season. To those who are used to associating hunting with long underwear, tracking through the snow, or at least the leaves turning color, it may seem strange to take to the woods when the temperatures are still in the 80’s or 90’s. But for those who are used to Florida hunting, which begins with the Archery season opening September 9th in the South Zone of the state (September 23rd for us in the Central Zone), mosquitoes, oppressive heat, and flooded roads

are just a way of keeping the forest free of those who aren’t serious about the sport. By the time the General Gun season rolls around in November, the temperatures have become mild enough to coax the less determined, and ﬂuorescent orange begins to inﬁltrate swamps and woodlands all over the state. There are over 140 state-managed Wildlife Management Areas, located throughout virtually the entire state, offering access to anyone who holds a hunting license and a Wildlife Management area stamp, and in some cases a Quota Hunt Permit. For more exclusive access, there are private hunting properties and clubs in almost every county. Don’t be too quick to discount the state-run areas, though. Last November, the second largest buck taken on public lands in Florida history was harvested by a Bay Lake teenager in the Richloam W.M.A. in Lake County. Casey Phillips, a 17 year old at Groveland High School, took a 16 point buck on November 21 that grossed 163 & 6/8 points on

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 16

the Boone & Crocket scale. The largest buck on record in Florida was taken in the Green Swamp WMA in 1999, a 25-point monster buck that scored 206 points. While white-tailed deer are the most popular game animal in Florida, there are a host of other opportunities. Wild hogs are almost as sought after as deer, and many hunters prefer to hunt the tusked beasts exclusively. Whether they are chased down with dogs or stalked on foot, there is an adrenaline rush that can make your heart pound almost audibly when a hog busts through the brush into your line of sight. Most wild hogs in Florida are descendants of domesticated hogs brought over by Spaniards. Fall ﬁnds dog boxes in the backs of many pickup trucks as hunters use dogs to corral or even capture hogs live. This year there is a new exemption that should help more young people enjoy hunting. For years, the state has required every hunter born since June 1, 1975 to pass a Hunter Safety Education course before they can purchase a hunt-

ing license. This year, however, the state has established a mentor program whereby hunters age 16 or older born since the cutoff can hunt in the presence of a licensed hunter age 21 or older for one year without fulfilling the Safety Course requirement. The object is to entice more young people to take an interest in hunting and the outdoors in general. The free, 16hour course covers subjects like gun safety, wildlife identification, first aid, survival, and outdoor ethics. For licensing requirements, individual WMA information, and other information, visit the Fish and Wildlife Commission’s website at www.myfwc.com. The website provides information on virtually every aspect of Florida hunting.

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Story by Heather Davis Photo by Dave Buyens

FINDING TALENT IN THE CHILDREN OF PLANT CITY

ometimes in our quest for great art it is the children who are overlooked. On a recent visit to the second meeting of the Plant City Art Association, it was hard to overlook the art of Devon Hamilton. Devon, a shy 13-year-old who exudes about him knowledge beyond his years, sat surrounded by his colored pencil sketches. Sketches of African American women that take your breath away in their exquisite beauty and detail. Exotic portraits in colored pencils are Devon’s favorite form of expression, but he exhibits a wide range of talent working in other mediums and subject matters. Devon began coloring at the age of two and was even at that age very particular about staying in the lines. When he was three he began to draw. Devon’s preschool teacher commented that Devon looked at things in its full

entirety, seeing the actual form and shape of the object. As Devon grew older he used art as a means to deal with the divorce of his parents, spending hours coloring and drawing. At the age of ten, Devon moved with his mother to Plant City. The move was hard on Devon at first, but he soon found a place to call home in the art classes at Ms. Cherie’s Art and Frame shop. It was there that he quickly made friends, as well as developed and fine tuned his talent as an artist. Shortly after moving to Plant City, Devon entered the Junior Art League’s art competition and placed first with his painting titled “Thoughts of the Motherland.” In January 2006, Devon had his first exhibit as a Junior Artist in the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival. Shortly afterwards he had an exhibit at the Bruton Memorial Library. Currently, Devon is hard at work in his art classes as well as being a member of both the Junior Art League and the Plant City Art Association. He is also involved in helping Ms. Cherie and his grandmother create a gallery in downtown Plant City for local artists to display their work. In the future Devon has dreams of attending The Art Institute of Chicago. With artists like Devon Hamilton, it is truly an exciting time for art in Plant City.

Devon Hamilton with one of his personal creations

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Story by Ken Lawrence Photos by Ken Lawrence and Sophia Dedon

Build It and They Will Come

A REPORT ON THE IMPENDING BUILDING BOOM IN PLANT CITY

FreeMar Homes Sales Person Paula Myers at Trapnell Ridge

Focus Magazine has been keeping its many readers informed on a regular basis about the state of housing development in Plant City. Since our last report, the City has been on the verge of exploding with some 9,000 units having already been approved by city officials. That does not mean many homes are going to be built in the next few months. This is a long range plan, covering upwards of the next five years. The home sales market has slowed across the country and locally as well, but predictions from real estate experts at the National Association of Realtors suggest the market well being will return to normalcy sometime in the second quarter of next year. What’s In Store Locally? “Some exciting things are going to happen and Plant City has been staging itself to take terrific advantage of the housing industry,” says Bob Appleyard, Vice President of Sunrise Homes, the developer of the much ballyhooed “Lakeside Station.” For any newcomers to Plant City, that’s the community off Park Road, between US 92 and the Kash

N’ Karry warehouse (now Sweet Bay). It will rival Walden Lake in size when completed over the next ten years or so. Appleyard tells Focus Plant City is in an excellent location to have a home building boom in the very near future. As for the starting date for “Lakeside Station,” Appleyard says he cannot give an exact date because his architects and engineers are conducting some minor modiﬁcations to the master plan for the community. “We want to make sure we’ve got it right,” he says. National Builders Are Hammering Away

in the city limits. It may have already done so by the time you read this article. For reasons of business conﬁdentiality, we promised not to reveal their name at this time.

ers and Abby Richardson say their respective companies have plans to continue their long associations with Plant City for many years to come.

The builders are offering many incentives to home buyers, starting with prices just about back to pre 2005 numbers, closing costs either paid in full or in part, granite countertops, tile ﬂooring and the list goes-on.

Smaller custom builders are planning for the future around Plant City as well. One such is Custom Touch Homes, which has built such communities as Citrus Landings and Wilder Pond. Its owner, John Cordell, has been negotiating for the purchase of land packages around Plant City.

Realtors are also getting in on the action with higher commissions and various prizes offered to agents who bring buyers. US Home Sales Agents Lyle Statton, Denis Maranda and the FreeMar sales team of Paula My-

The future is so bright for housing in Plant City that we’ll borrow a favorite saying of Tampa Bay Buccaneers Coach John Gruden, “We’ll all have to wear shades.”

A LIST OF JUST A FEW OF THE PLANNED PROJECTS FOR PLANT CITY Community Name

Builder/Developer

Number of Units

Walden Woods Townhomes County Line Farms (Multi-Family) County Line Farms (Single Family) Eagle’s Crest (Knights Griﬃn) Eastland Estates (Charlie Taylor) Magnolia Green (Trapnell Rd) North Park Isles

D.R. Horton Genesis Group Genesis Group JES Properties Lakeland Martin Bezdek Tampa Florida Planning Studio Tampa LandBuilder Corp. Tampa

402 800 200 505 414 301 947

US Home Corporation and its parent company, Lennar, have been busy constructing homes at Trapnell Ridge along with the overall developer of the property, FreeMar Homes. Each of the trio is building about 60 some dwellings and sales have begun to pick up after a relatively slow start due to the overall slowdown in the market. One local company that has developed major communities around Tampa Bay is close to acquiring a large tract of several hundred acres

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 18

New homes are going up all over the Plant City area; this particular home is being custom-built in Alaﬁa Ridge by Central Florida Custom Homes

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Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

Plant City Safety Day

CHRIS WELBON KARATE GRAND OPENING Inside the facilities was an area set up by the Plant City Police Department. Throughout the day, parents could bring their children to be ﬁngerprinted for free. In case of an emergency, it is essential for parents to have records of their children. In light of Safety Day, it was perfect to have the police department there to help protect the children from future occurrences.

Free ﬁngerprinting was provided by the Plant City Police Department for Children’s Safety Day

n Saturday, August 19, Plant City Safety Day was held at the new location of Chris Welbon’s Karate School. It was a wonderful day for families to have fun together, as well as learn about safety. Chris

Welbon’s new location is at 602 S. Collins Street, across from the old Plant City Police Station. In the parking lot of the new facility were activities galore. South Florida Baptist Hospital brought the Wellness on Wheels bus with fun games for children to play while also learning. There was also a dunk tank for parents and children alike to attempt drenching some of the students. Quinzos came and handed out free samples of subs and cookies. There were several booths set up outside, but no eye could miss Kukkabah the clown as he walked around making children laugh.

At various times throughout the day, some of Chris Welbon’s students performed demonstrations of the karate they have learned. At the end of the day, the crowds gathered inside to watch several of the black belts perform demonstrations they had used at national and international competitions. From jumping, to kicking, to breaking wood, they certainly kept the crowd’s attention.

Kukkabah the Clown

Finally, at the end of the day, Chris took the women aside and taught them vital things to know about protecting themselves. Even the simplest of self-defense maneuvers can make a very large difference if a woman ﬁnds herself in a dangerous position. By the end of the event, it was certainly “safe” to say that Plant City Safety Day was a success and taught both parents and children important things for them to know about staying safe.

Demonstrations were performed by several of Chris Welbon’s students

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Story by Debbie Bowers Photos courtesy of Cheri Ray

Little Man’s Nursery A YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR

blueberry farm with 3,000 cuttings I’m propagating in my greenhouse. Over the next two years, I’ll begin planting an acre of blueberries,” Yancey commented. In the meantime, he maintains numerous kinds of woody ornamental plants, hanging baskets and a variety of herbs. Yancey was eager to show off his plant nursery, now in the beginning phase. Snow bush, confederate jasmine, abricola, yellow lantana, oak, guava and crepe myrtle trees, woody ornamentals, hanging baskets, a variety of herbs, border grasses and the 3,000 cuttings of blueberries in his greenhouse are just a few of the plant varieties. He and his Dad developed a nifty irrigation system for all of the vegetation.

Yancey Ray, 12 years old, is the proud owner of a plant nursery

ancey William Ray just may be the youngest businessman in Plant City. He owns a plant nursery, a Power King tractor and recently acquired a youth loan for $3,800. By the way, he is only 12 years old. Yancey and his dogs met me at the door of his family’s farm of five years. The farm is surrounded by lush green grass and tall trees. Loving hands maintain the property of a home, a nursery, a chicken farm, dogs, a worm farm, hogs and goldfish. Yancey is a seventh generation descendant of an East Hillsborough pioneer family. He loves sharing stories of the old days with his Great-Grandpa Tanner and says he would have enjoyed living back in the late 1800’s. This year was filled with incredible successes, including a Grand Champion 4-H Youth ribbon detailing a two week observation of deer and

hunting habits while on vacation. He was also awarded first place for the Youth Plant Show for dish gardens, xanadu plants and hanging gardens. Yancey then won first place for baking a six-layer strawberry cake, and received Junior Showmanship for his dog, Jackson, at the State Fair. His received $504 in Strawberry Festival prize monies. The winnings helped repair the Power King tractor Grandpa Tanner gave him. Since the Festival, an application was filed and sent to the Agricultural Department of the United States. A Farm Loan Manager required a three to four year written business plan plus collateral to secure the loan. Collateral assumed was from his chickens, tractor and trailer, green house and stock of plants. The loan and business plan assumes the opening of a plant nursery and blueberry farm. “I have set into motion the start of my future

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 22

“My family and I have discovered during blueberry season so many people crave the simple things and have enjoyed a taste of the country life at our farm. I feel like so many kids my age are missing out on this fun, busy and dirty life. I like the dirty part. I do stay very busy during the week. I am homeschooled, which allows me to experience a more hands-on way of learning. I have many hobbies; hunting, ﬁshing, 4-H showman with my dog Jackson, my

chickens, plants and building a rail buggy with my dad,” stated Yancey. Yancey is very excited about the grand opening of the Little Man’s Nursery on Saturday, September 23rd, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Plants, trees, chickens and eggs will be sold to the public. Take a walk through the Country Herb and Vegetable Garden which demonstrates container and raised bed gardening. A class is planned for October to teach growing, cultivating, maintaining, and cooking with herbs. For more information about Yancey, owner of Little Man’s Nursery and farm, or to chat or visit him, contact him at 813-986-4964. Yancey Ray is an insightful and engaging young man with a great entrepreneurial spirit. Watch both him and his business grow.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 23

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Story by Holly Mallalieu Photos by Holly Mallalieu and courtesy of the Bowden Family

Who is Bailey Bowden? 10 YEAR-OLD IS STAR SWIMMER

at the age of eight, to attending the Junior Olympics for the ﬁfth time in her life this March, this young athlete’s record keeps getting more and more impressive.

Bailey with sister Lindsay, 6, who also swims on the Brandon team

t only 10 years old, Bailey Bowden is so well accomplished in swimming that, quite honestly, it’s hard to believe. But it’s true. From winning her ﬁrst cup

Bailey has been swimming since she was five, where she first tried at the YMCA. Come to find out, she was a born natural. Over time, as she grew better and better, Bailey began to enjoy swimming even more. She then joined the Brandon Swim and Aquatics club, where she now swims on a team. Bailey is fourth in the state for her age group in the 400meter freestyle, and places ninth in the 200-meter freestyle. She ranks in the top 25 in all of the events except the breaststroke. Bailey will be attending the Junior Olympics again this year - a very distinctive accomplishment. This competition is for the top swimmers

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 24

in the state. Before qualifying, participants compete in six timed events by age Bailey has attended the Jr. Olympics before for her swimming talent group. Only a number University of Florida on a swimare able to attend the Junior Olymming scholarship and participate in pics. Bailey placed second in four the 2012 London Olympics. events at the last Olympics. She has even trained with Brooke Bennett, one of Plant City’s claims to fame. Bennett has won three Olympic gold medals herself, so she is surely a privilege to work with. Already, our star swimmer has a goal set for herself: to attend the

It puts you a step up to be talented at something, and there’s no doubt that Bailey Bowden is a remarkable swimmer. Plant City is more than proud of her, as is her family, and we wish her the best of luck at the Junior Olympics and thereafter.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 25

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Story and Photos by Daniel Sperry

Operation Military Kids Comes to Plant City 4-H TEAMS UP WITH NATIONAL GUARD TO SUPPORT MILITARY PARENTS eat lunch, their faces lit up with smiles, seeing their children laughing, playing and having such a good time. “This is so good for them,” said one mother of three. “They don’t really understand why I have to be gone so much.” “My mom and dad are ﬁghting the bad guys,” said one six year old. “I miss them a lot.”

Stephanie Farmer holds a white rabbit for a disabled girl, whose parents have been deployed, to pet.

he conﬂict in Iraq is still going strong and some of the people who are making the greatest sacriﬁces are children right here in Plant City. The National Guard has been highly involved in Iraq and many families have seen one or both parents called up to active duty. “It is really hard on both the kids and their parents,” says Stephanie Farmer. Farmer works with an endeavor by 4-H to provide a much-needed service to help these families. Teaming up with the National Guard, they have formed Operation Military Kids. The mission is to provide a setting where parents and caregivers can get counseling to help them deal with the issues they face from being parted from their families and children. 4-H provides entertainment and care for the children, leaving the parents free to meet with counselors. The Plant City National Guard Armory was host to more than 17 families on Saturday, August 12.

“It’s just amazing!” commented one mother as she walked into the National Guard Armory on Airport Road. “I didn’t expect there to be so much for the kids to do.” “So many people and groups volunteered to help make this exciting for the kids,” says Farmer. And it truly was amazing. The armory was like a carnival. Air Jumpers Party Rentals donated inﬂatable playgrounds for the event. Owner Ashley Triner and her husband also volunteered their time for the event and monitored the kids as they leaped and bounced. “Something like this is really important,” said Triner. “We are so glad to be a part of it.” Magician Greg Suarez of Raggity Dog Productions also donated his time to entertain the kids, pulling rabbits and doves from his hat as everyone watched, entranced. Hungry Howies provided pizza for the lunches at a discounted rate. As the parents came out of their counseling sessions to

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 26

Flo Hervey of 4-H helps coordinate the Operation Military Kids program in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties. “The main program objective is to create community support networks to support the children of deployed soldiers,” says Hervey. “Through a three pronged approach of ‘education, awareness and service,’ we spread the word about the issues children face when a parent is deployed.”

“Our hearts are with these kids,” says Stephanie Farmer, a 4-H volunteer. “They sometimes get lost in the shufﬂe of everything that is going on. Most people don’t even think about how families can be affected by being deployed, often into harms way.” Anyone who is interested in volunteering their time or getting more involved in 4-H should contact them at fhervey@co.pinellas. ﬂ.us. Local companies who donated their services and products for this event are: Hungry Howies Pizza, Raggity Dog Productions, Air Jumpers Party Rentals, Publix Supermarkets, Checkers and Allstate.

Besides programs like this one, 4-H and Operation Military Kids deliver recreational, social and educational programs for local youths. Throughout the year, they assist with programs like Fill a Tank with Toys toy drive, Easter egg hunts, Christmas dinners and Adopt-a-Family programs. The 4-H team who spearheads these activities has created the slogan, “Speak Out For Military Kids.” They have cultivated a relationship with the Family Readiness Coordinators from the deploying units of families who have to head overseas and are the 4-H’s direct link to families in need of services.

Greg Suarez pulls a dove out of a box and the kids are amazed at how soft it is.

A huge inﬂated princess castle was one of several jumpers donated by Air Jumpers Party rentals.

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Story by Sophia Dedon Photo courtesy of Dr. Susan Ott

Racing for Life

DR. SUSAN OTT COMPETES IN IRONMAN

he Ironman competition is most often associated with the world championship that is held annually in Hawaii. However, there are many Ironman competitions every year requiring men and women to push their bodies to the limit as they swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run for 26.2 miles. Our very own Plant City physician, Dr. Susan Ott, will be competing in Ironman Florida on November 4. The motivation to compete in such a demanding race may come from various sources. For Dr. Ott, it began as an interest when she signed up for a sprint triathlon two years ago after she starting working out regularly. After that, she was hooked and slowly began raising the bar, entering more difﬁcult

competitions. This race will be her first Ironman, but she is not running it for herself. Dr. Ott is raising money through the Janus Charity Challenge that allows Ironman triathletes to raise money for a charity of their choice. Janus will match the funds raised by the athlete that raises the most money, up to $10,000. Dr. Ott will be raising funds for the Moffitt Cancer Foundation. Both of her parents have been patients at Moffitt and she wants to contribute back. “We all have been affected by cancer in some way, whether ourselves, friends or family have suffered from it,” said Dr. Ott, “The money that is raised will go towards research that will benefit

Dr. Susan Ott has competed in many triathlons and is now going to compete in an Ironman competition

not only Mofﬁtt but everyone doing cancer research.” If you would like to help Dr. Ott as she raises money that will beneﬁt all our loved ones, just visit www. JanusCharityChallenge.com. Click on “How to Donate” then “Athlete

and Charity Search” and then type in “Susan Ott.” Every little bit helps! On the day of the race, you can follow her progress at www.ironmanlive.com.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 27

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Story and Photos by Daniel Sperry

Win Friends and Inﬂuence People DALE CARNEGIE COURSE COMES TO PLANT CITY The instructors are animated and excited and the participants hinge on every word. Melanie Dodson, Business Performance Consultant for Dale Carnegie, says that they are thrilled to be back in Plant City again after two years away. “We had a lot of interest from Chamber members,” she says. “There are many people who feel they can really benefit from this class.” Don Hassee and Melanie Dodson go over the schedule for the orientation class

n eclectic group of 15 men and women from their twenties to their sixties have gathered. They sit in anticipation, waiting for the speaker to begin. A woman leans over and says to the man beside her, “I’m so excited about this, I really need it!” The man nods. Don Hassee steps to the front of the room, smiles and asks “What is the number one phobia in the United States?” “Heights?” asks one person. “Terrorism?” asks another. “Public speaking,” states a third confidently. Hassee smiles. “That’s right.” And so begins the orientation for the Dale Carnegie Course on Effective Human Relations and Communication at the Plant City Chamber of Commerce. This is not a stereotypical, boring class.

The course is designed to help people improve not only their business, but also their personal relationships by enhancing communication skills and helping people overcome their fear of public speaking. The idea is that, after the class, participants will have strengthened their leadership skills and will be better able to obtain cooperation from others, whether in the workplace or in their private lives.

their responsibilities. Techniques are taught that help enhance memory and teach people to think differently, so it is possible to discover new ways to solve problems. Hassee is clearly energized and eager to talk about what he believes the class will offer. He says the skills gained after going through a course like this will be with the participants for the rest of their lives. “You have altered your course,” he says. “You have added a new set of skills.” His enthusiasm is contagious, and within minutes, the class is animated and interacting with Hassee and each other. Hassee explains the class is also about becoming a better listener, increasing self-confidence and establishing a more positive outlook on life. “This is only the beginning,” says Dodson about what their goals are for the class. “We offer classes beyond this one at our

main offices in Tampa that build on what is taught here.” She says that they get quite a few Plant City residents at their courses in Tampa and they hope to build on the class they are doing here now and offer more at the Chamber of Commerce in the future. According to the organization, people can earn college credit for the classes and they are accredited by The Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. “This is a class for everyone,” says Dodson. “People think it is only for professionals and executives, but the lessons learned here will impact every area of your life.” The Dale Carnegie class is being offered from 6:00-9:30pm beginning September 11 and continuing for 12 weeks. Additional information can be obtained by contacting Dale Carnegie Training, 1408 North Westshore Boulevard, Suite 912, Tampa, FL 33607, or you call them at 813288-8778.

“It makes a difference when you participate in a class like this,” says Dodson. She says it is different than just reading a book. “You interact with the instructors and the other participants. You actually put into practice the ideas that are being taught.” But the course goes beyond just improving a person’s powers of persuasion. It also is geared to help people learn how to meet their goals consistently and fulfill

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 28

Eager participants absorb the Carnegie instructor’s observations on how to be successful

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Story by Cheryl Johnston Photos courtesy of RSI Music Group

Bluegrass Gospel Brings Good News IT’S HARVEST TIME

ou’re invited to a free bluegrass gospel concert. Ya’ll come hear Harvest, an exceptional group of songwriting musicians and twice-nominated “Bluegrass Gospel Group of the Year.” Simply show up in jeans or old fashioned clothing with an interest in American roots music, expecting something great. Appearing in the 10:30 morning “Old Fashioned Sunday” service on October 8th at Plant City Church of God, their “music with a message” will move you. This friendly church is conveniently located at 2103 Mud Lake Road, just off the Alexander Street curve. Bluegrass, America’s true original music, developed in the 1940s. Rooted in traditional music of British Isles’ immigrants (particularly the Appalachian Scots-Irish), along with the music of rural AfricanAmericans, jazz, and blues, it has broad appeal. Unlike mainstream country music, bluegrass relies mostly on tight vocal

harmonies and acoustic stringed instruments like ﬁddle, banjo, acoustic guitar, mandolin, upright bass and sometimes the resonator (Dobro brand) guitar. Now in its transitional fourth generation, notable groups have included: Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys, Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs, Foggy Mountain Boys, Lonesome River Band, Ricky Skaggs’ Kentucky Thunder, Dolly Parton, Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia and Alison Krauss with Union Station. Recent movies, O Brother, Where Art Thou? and The Songcatcher featured bluegrass gospel music, helping today’s generation appreciate this captivating genre. Lyrics describe human experiences and emotions ranging from lost or found love to longing for home. Bluegrass styling plus the Gospel message never fails to touch listeners.

The Harvest Bluegrass band will be performing in Plant City on October 8

Harvest’s current single, “Lord, I Can’t Make It Without You,” is climbing the charts. Likewise, Harvest members (Bryan Hooper, Caleb Smith, Marty Price and Mark Millsaps) know the One who inspires with His message of love, forgiveness, and hope. Their latest album, John 4:35, and ﬁrst single, “He

Wouldn’t Stay Dead, and He Won’t Stay Gone,” received national industry recognition. To preview their performance, visit the group’s website at www.harvestbluegrass.com. Call 752-4591 for details or directions. Bring friends, too!

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 29

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Ken Lawrence

Strawberry Growers Concerned About Their Public Image

A REPORT ON THE ANNUAL AGRITECH CONFERENCE IN PLANT CITY Hinton. Most growers that Focus spoke to at the conference say they do not support total amnesty for illegal workers, but want a humane approach to dealing with them. As Tommy Brock put it, “If I put an ad in a newspaper tomorrow asking for farm workers, the only ones to respond would be from Mexico.” Towards a Strawberry with a Longer Shelf Life

The Florida Strawberry Growers Association Oﬃce Team. (l-r) Erin Best, Evie Simmons, Glenda McNary, Julie Chandler & Chip Hinton-Exec. Dir.

lorida’s second largest industry was on display in Plant City recently and it showed one thing very clearly. Farmers are not happy about a persistent and incorrect public perception that they hire illegal immigrant workers and pay them low wages. Led by veteran strawberry growers such as Tommy Brock, the annual Agritech conference had a very animated discussion on the ﬁrst day of their two day meeting at Hillsborough Community College in Plant City. Farmers say there’s a belief out there that they are partly responsible for the illegal immigration issues that have been a ‘hot topic’ across the country, including two separate pieces of legislation now before Congress, one in the Senate, the other in the House of Representatives. Tommy Brock told the gathering of some 175 registered participants at the conference that all the public hears about from the news media is “terrorism and the threat of same and that our border with Mexico should be sealed.” He says that

reports make “farmers out to be the bad guys because the media says we hire undocumented workers and pay them very low wages under the table.” Later in an interview with Focus, Brock pointed out that for the past 15 years, strawberry farmers for example, have been documenting workers as mandated by Florida law. Taxes are deducted and Social Security Insurance premiums are paid to the government. He says “If the migrant workers have false documents (excellent forgeries by the way) it’s not the employer’s responsibility to check them out, it’s the government’s.” The Executive Director of the Florida Strawberry Growers’ Association is Charles ‘Chip’ Hinton and he says his organization supports the Senate version of the Immigration Bill which would allow “Guest Workers.” President Bush also endorses the proposed new law. “We have a feeling for the people who come to work in the strawberry ﬁelds, many of whom have been here for several years,” says

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 30

A berry that will not go mushy in a couple of days….that has been the goal of strawberry growers for many years and the one given the most praise at the Agritech conference has the distinction of being named “Strawberry Festival”. As is the case with most new strains of strawberries, the berries have been cultivated by scientists at the University of Florida, at their research station in Wimauma, south of Plant City. The Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at UF in Gainesville is R. Kirby Barrick. He tells Focus that the search continues for that “perfect strawberry.” Participants at the conference were told that from the time a strawberry is picked and shipped up north in the winter, it could take at least 7 days before it sits on someone’s dining room table. The growers believe the transportation system could be improved to shorten that period of time. Well known grower Carl Grooms, who is negotiating to sell his 80 plus acres of

land off County Line Road, says that ironically, Florida does not really have to ship its strawberry crop out of state. He says there are more than enough people here to consume every berry picked. In spite of the sometimes spirited debate at the Agritech conference, the participants all agree that the agriculture business in Florida is in pretty good shape. As grower Grooms put it, “Farmers will always want to till the dirt and strawberries will always be a part of life in Plant City.”

Tommy Brock-Strawberry Grower concerned about Immigration policies

Carl Grooms-Popular Strawberry Farmer

We built this bank one satisfied customer at a time. If you think the big banks are getting bigger at your expense and are treating you like a number, it’s time you give Sunshine State Federal Savings a call. We offer small town service that is second to none. After all that is how we built a business that has been dedicated to Plant City for over fifty years. We are not a bank, we’re better.

Plant City (Main Office) • 102 Baker Street • 813-752-6193 Walden Woods • 2400 Jim Redman Pkwy • 813-754-1844

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 31

Lake Morton Plaza It’s all about the lifestyle.

t Lake Morton Plaza, we are creating changes to fit your lifestyle. From our A caring staff to our newly renovated apartments, we offer our residents the best retirement living experience. Walk through our colorful hallways and explore their unique themes. Enjoy the view of downtown Lakeland from the comfort of your apartment, take a walk around Lake Morton, or visit the wonderful Hollis Gardens. Afterwards, come and enjoy a delicious meal in our elegant Royal Palm Dining Room, with superior service by our attentive personnel. At Lake Morton Plaza, we like to make you feel at home. We welcome Veterans and we work closely with the Veteran Service Office of Polk County.

400 South Florida Avenue · Lakeland, Florida 33801 · 863-683-1000 www.lakemortonplaza.com

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 32

ALF Lic. #5308

DURANT HIGH SCHOOL Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon As the 2006 high school football season begins, the Durant Cougars are focusing on developing a new starting line up. The team was not fortunate enough to have inherited many starters from last year’s team. However, they are not letting this dampen their spirits. They practice daily to develop the skills and experience they will need in order to have a successful season. With the determination and will they possess, their goals should soon be reality.

Coach Michael Gottman is beginning his fourth season as the head coach of the Durant Cougar’s varsity football team. He and his seven assistant coaches spend more than 10 hours a week working with the players to build them into a successful team. Coach Gottman took time out to give Focus a glimpse of what he expects this season. Focus: What does your team look like this season? Gottman: We have a solid group of kids. They are all willing to work hard to improve. Most of them are inexperienced starters, but have shown to be capable of improving every week. We have 20 seniors, but they have few games under their belts. We had no returning defensive starters and only two offensive returning starters. Focus: What are your expectations for your players? Gottman: I expect my players to be good athletes and good students. We have won the county GPA award for the past two years. [Durant football players had the highest average GPA of all other football teams in the county.] I expect my players to perform both on and off the ﬁeld. Focus: What advantages would you say you have over other teams? Gottman: I have an intelligent team that can handle many things. They all have intensity and want. They are striving to be the best they can be.

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TRENT TICE Wide Receiver Coach

STEWART LOWRY Special Teams Coordinator Linebacker Coach

RANDY BAKER Defensive Line Coach

TONY WEST Defensive Back Coach

JOHN FONTES Defensive Coordinator Defensive Back Coach

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#3 ZAK HADSALL DEFENSIVE BACK SENIOR

#4 PAUL ADEE LINEBACKER SENIOR

#6 KEVIN SZCZYPINSKI DEFENSIVE END JUNIOR

#7 KEVIN GAINER RUNNING BACK SENIOR

#8 ROBBIE BECK PUNTER SENIOR

#9 JEREMY FUSSELL QUARTERBACK JUNIOR

#14 JOSH THOMAS DEFENSIVE BACK SENIOR

#17 EVAN KELLY KICKER JUNIOR

#20 MICHAEL LIDDELL STRONG SAFETY SENIOR

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#25 JACK COAN WING SENIOR

#24 MATT WACASER RUNNING BACK SENIOR

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#1 JASHIWA POWE DEFENSIVE BACK SENIOR

#33 JAMAL CLARK DEFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 35

#51 ERIC COUNCILL LINEBACKER JUNIOR

#55 JOHN DECKER DEFENSIVE END SENIOR

#57 JOSH ROYCE LINEBACKER JUNIOR

#62 IAN BROOKE OFFENSIVE GUARD SENIOR

#66 SHANE MCDOUGALL LINEBACKER SOPHOMORE

#67 JOSH PIASCIK OFFENSIVE LINE JUNIOR

#68 DAVID ZANATA OFFENSIVE GUARD JUNIOR

# 76 COLE GILLIAM OFFENSIVE TACKLE SOPHOMORE

#77 JUSTIN NEWSOME OFFENSIVE TACKLE SENIOR

#80 ROYCE ROSE TIGHT END SOPHOMORE

#82 DAMON KOLANOWSKI SPLIT END JUNIOR

#85 COLBY NEWCOMB DEFENSIVE END SENIOR

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 36

8/18/06 Opponent Classic/ King

Place Home

Time 7:30 p.m.

8/25/06 Opponent Plant City

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m.

9/01/06 Opponent Armwood

Place Home

Time 7:30 p.m.

9/08/06 Opponent Brandon

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m.

9/15/06 Opponent Bloomingdale

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m.

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9/22/06 Opponent Jenkins

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9/29/06 Opponent Sarasota

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Time 7:30 p.m.

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10/12/06 Opponent Riverview

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m.

10/20/06 Opponent Place East Bay (Homecoming) Home

Time 7:30 p.m.

10/27/06 Opponent Sarasota Riverview

Time 7:30 p.m

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10/06/06 Opponent Newsome

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CARPORT FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 37

06 H

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PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

The complexion of the Plant City Raiders varsity football team is a mixture. The starting line-up is a combination of sophomores, juniors and seniors, making it predominantly a young team. All of the players are giving their all this season, creating more excitement for the next couple seasons to come as the team matures. However, right now the team’s focus is on this season and they plan to give every game their best and make it to the playoffs.

In his ﬁrst year of coaching the Plant City Raiders, Head Coach Kevin Kelley has set high goals for the team. He believes in his players, and knows that they have the potential they need. Focus: What does this year’s team look like? Coach Kelley: We have a young team. There are seven sophomores starting. Four seniors are starting, but we also have four seniors hurt. Focus: This is your ﬁrst year as head coach of Plant City; what is your coaching background? Coach Kelley: I have been coaching in Hillsborough County football for 19 years. I coached at Eastside and most recently I was the Defensive Coordinator for Plant City before becoming Head Coach. Focus: How has the team prepared for this season? Coach Kelley: They have been working hard since January. We had some great off-season training. Since the team is young, they haven’t had time to develop bad habits, allowing us to mold them into what we need to win. Focus: What do you expect from your players? Coach Kelley: We have hard working players. I expect them to give 100% at practice and in the games. I also expect them to be good members of the community and good students. Our motto is that our priorities should go family, school, and then football.

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COACH SIMMONS Offensive Line Coach

COACH BROWN Linebacker Coach

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COACH COOPER Defensive Coordinator FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 38

COACH WARD Running Back Coach

COACH JONES Offensive Coordinator

COACH ASH Wide Receiver Coach

#3 KRIS BELLAMY DEFENSIVE BACK SENIOR

#4 DEXTER WASHINGTON DEFENSIVE BACK SOPHOMORE

#5 RAKEEM ANTHONY WIDE RECEIVER JUNIOR

#7 DERRICK HARGROVE QUARTER BACK JUNIOR

#9 DENZEL DRONE WIDE RECEIVER SOPHOMORE

#10 CLINT STEARNS QUARTER BACK SOPHOMORE

#11 MICHAEL SYKES DEFENSIVE BACK JUNIOR

#13 SHANE SIKES WIDE RECEIVER SENIOR

#16 JONATHON DUPREE KICKER JUNIOR

#20 KEITH DAWSON RUNNING BACK JUNIOR

#21 BRIAN GOODMAN DEFENSIVE BACK SOPHOMORE

#22 ZACK JONES WIDE RECEIVER JUNIOR

#24 WILLIE HAYNES DEFENSIVE BACK JUNIOR

#25 BYRON WOODS LINEBACKER SENIOR

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#32 JACARI BENNETT RUNNING BACK SENIOR

#29 JARROD FARMER DEFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

#28 SIRCHAUNCEY HOLLOWAY RUNNING BACK JUNIOR

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#2 ARSENIO DURANT LINEBACKER JUNIOR

#34 DURANT LOWE DEFENSIVE BACK SOPHOMORE

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 39

#38 ASAAD BENNETT LINEBACKER SENIOR

#40 BRENT BUTLER LINEBACKER JUNIOR

#42 CHASE THOMPSON LINEBACKER JUNIOR

#44 RYAN HOMBERG LINEBACKER JUNIOR

#48 JUSTIN HOLLMAN DEFENSIVE BACK SENIOR

#50 ETHAN HAMILTON OFFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

#54 BOBBY KUHLMEYER DEFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

#55 JOSEPH UPTHEGROVE DEFENSIVE LINE JUNIOR

#60 JOSH HELTON OFFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

#64 NATHAN JENKINS OFFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

#65 EDDIE ROSENBAUM OFFENSIVE LINE SOPHOMORE

#66 CASEY NORRIS DEFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

#68 MARK POPECK DEFENSIVE LINE JUNIOR

#68 BRIAN ALLIE DEFENSIVE LINE JUNIOR

#69 JASON GOUHIN DEFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

#70 MICHAEL JET OFFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

#72 RICHARD FRY OFFENSIVE LINE JUNIOR

#76 QUENTIN HOLLOWAY DEFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

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#36 BRENNAN ROBERSON LINEBACKER JUNIOR

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 40

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#80 DOUGLAS GOODMAN WIDE RECEIVER SENIOR

#78 STEVEN HANCOCK OFFENSIVE LINE SENIOR

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8/18/06

Opponent Zephyrhills

Place Home

Time 7:30 p.m.

8/25/06

Opponent Durant

Place Home

Time 7:30 p.m.

9/01/06

Opponent Wharton

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m.

9/08/06

Opponent Armwood

Place Home

Time 7:30 p.m.

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9/15/06

Opponent Lake Gibson

Place Home

Time 7:30 p.m.

9/22/06

Opponent Newsome

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m.

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9/29/06

Opponent Place Brandon (Homecoming) Home

Time 7:30 p.m.

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Opponent Tampa Tech

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m.

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10/12/06

Opponent East Bay

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m.

10/20/06

Opponent Open

Place

Time 7:30 p.m.

10/27/06

Opponent Bloomingdale

Place Away

Time 7:30 p.m

11/03/06

Opponent Riverview

Place Home

Time 7:30 p.m

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 41

Plant City Dolphins Youth football programs like the Plant City Dolphins don’t have the luxury of rich executives or paid coaches like professional football does, so they have to rely on volunteers, a ton of volunteers. In fact it is all about volunteers. Most practice nights, you can observe volunteers everywhere. There are coaches, cheerleading instructors, board members, concession workers, and lots of parents who enjoy doing just about everything from car pooling to fundraisers to cleaning up.

Interview with Buddy Bennett

What does Dolphin football mean to you?

You’re one of those volunteers, aren’t you? So tell me, what are your duties as the President of the Board of Directors?

It’s a year round job and it’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it. The biggest beneﬁts are the relationships that develop, especially in those cases when a coach and a player may be together for years. Dolphin football also enables those who eventually want to play high school football and beyond to learn the skills necessary to compete at a higher level.

Steve Gude is our football director and works with our coaches and players. My job, along with the help of an all-volunteer board of directors, is to oversee all of the functions of the Dolphin organization, which include gathering sponsor money, conducting fundraisers, coordinating volunteers, and trying to take care of more than 150 players and nearly 100 cheerleaders. Can you tell me about the Dolphin organization? The ﬁve teams of the Plant City Dolphins range in age from 6 to 15. Each division has age restrictions and weight restrictions so that players who compete will be of similar age and size. The Dolphins, along with seven other teams, make up the West Coast Youth Football Conference. After a ten game season, the conference host several events. One is a playoff system that leads to a Super Bowl in each age division and another is an all-star game.

Did you have a strong season last year? It was a good year for us. All but one of our teams had winning records. Three of our teams made the playoffs and two went to their Super Bowls. How does this season look? In our ﬁrst game, our two younger teams won impressively and the Midgets played well in losing by one point to last year’s Super Bowl winner. The two older teams were rained out, but I expected that we would have done pretty well if they would have played. So, if this is an indication of the rest of our season, I think we’ll be ﬁne.

2006 SCHEDULE August 26 September 9 September 16 September 23 September 30 October 7 October 14 October 21 October 28

Home vs Wesley Chapel Away vs East Bay Bucs Home vs Brandon Broncos Away vs Brandon Steelers Home vs Brandon Bears Away vs Lakeland Eagles Home vs Temple Terrace Away vs Wesley Chapel Home vs East Bay Bucs

NOTE: NO GAMES ON THANKSGIVING WEEKEND (NOV. 25) OR LABOR DAY WEEKEND (SEPT. 2) Kickoff times: Flyweight – 9:00 am Super Midget – 10:45 am Midgets – 12:30 pm Junior Varsity – 2:15 pm Varsity – 4:15 pm FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 42

Varsity Coaches Theodore Michael, Henry McIntyre, Eric Washington, Antwon Bus PLANT CITY DOLPHIN VARSITY FOOTBALL # 4 5 7 17 18 23 26 27

Last Name Strong Pettis Jones Gainer Glorioso Wallace Lee Fisher

First Name Hakin Rodrick Monique Vashawn Richard David Fredrick Rodney

# 36 39 40 55 81 90 93

Last Name Franklin Melendez Knight Lewis Baptiste Colleran Inzerilli

First Name Ge’Hari Adan Art Mason Malcolm Sean Michael

# 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 18 19 20

# 1 2 3 5 7 8 10 12 13 15 17 18 19 20 24 28

Junior Varsity Football Coaches Steve Costa, Joe Salvato, Danny Coton, Marc Mashburn, Richard Paz

Midget Football Coaches John Catlin, Dave Catlin, Mike Massimei, Kyle Bruner

PLANT CITY DOLPHIN JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL

PLANT CITY DOLPHINS MIDGET FOOTBALL

Last Name Patterson Smith Mashburn Salvato Schmidberger Roberts Tidey Wright-Barrionuevo Coton Smith Howard Baker McKenzie Loftus Aumond Armbruster Carvalho Lee

First Name Dazmond Brennan Taylor Joseph Ryan Montana Jesse Kyle Justin Jacob Austin Nathaniel Jabari Shawn Aric Bryan Brandon Kendall

# 21 22 23 24 26 28 30 31 32 34 42 47 58 63 88 92

Last Name Mathis-Breedlove Riddle Layman Rodriquez Smith Johnson Riddle Butler Crocker Gordon Paz Hash Rollins Scott Cowart Smith Lara

First Name Devario Christain Alec Anthony Christopher James William Jalen Michael Clarence Richard Michael Terrell Cody James Robert Cris

# 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 18 19 20 22 24 28 32

Last Name Harrison Johnson Wooden Brown Davis Garrison Lassiter Hart Leon Delagarza Rodriquez Barnett Diers Pettys Moore Elrod

First Name Dae’Quan Dontavius Deandre Damon Joe Michael Austin Dustyn Pedro Juan Nicholas Tyler Colby Bobby Kyle Jeremy

# 33 34 36 38 40 44 45 50 51 55 59 63 77 85 97 99

Last Name Harrell Williams Crossland Knight Tice Bruner Broome Elrod Breedlove Orso Valin Ragins Sanchez Wilson Catlin Gude

First Name Kyle Trenton Justin Craig Christopher Austin John Joshua Jacary James Bryce Keisha John Adam John Stephen

Super Midget Football Coaches Steve Gude, Keith Smith, Armand Cotnoir, Bryan Diem, Andrew Fritsch, Byron Williams

Flyweight Coaches Rabul Cantu, Eric Lawson, Chad Eldridge, Carl Hall, Steve Parker

PLANT CITY DOLPHINS SUPER MIDGET FOOTBALL

PLANT CITY DOLPHIN FLYWEIGHT FOOTBALL

Last Name Cotnoir Dearhart Matthews Hakkarainen Smith Rainey Shaw Massimei Gude Laatsch Hargrove Collins Everett Berrios Sequin Williams

First Name Cory Tyler Thomas Andrew Parker Travis Christopher Alexander Joshua Nathan Markese Eric Austin Gregory Robert Quenton

# 32 34 40 47 49 50 52 54 55 61 77 82 88 96 97

Last Name Ward Lott Pettys Diem Wright Ganthier Lassiter Wheeler Glausier Washington Bjelke Rogers Fritsch Stoltz Straub

First Name Tydre Chase Dillon Cameron Zaccheus Carlton Caleb McKenzie Kody Cedric Ryan Cole Andrew Robert Christopher

Last Name

First Name

Last Name

First Name

Cantu

Peyton

Floyd

Zane

Lawson

Chase

Gordon

James

Mashburn

Matthew

Baker

Carlton

Fairﬁeld

Jace

Lowe

Devonte

Broadnax

Tijay

Marks

Blaze

Parker

Steven

Johnson

Jacob

Kirk

Bryce

Sparkman

Ethan

Tears

Kyle

Eldridge

Austin

Schneider

Chase

Dearhart

Tanner

Zielinski

John

Sequin

Marshall

Ford

Zachary

Hood

Tyler

Deshong

Logan

Deshong

Garrett

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 43

Turkey Creek Trojans For thirty-seven years the Turkey Creek Trojans have provided football and cheerleading programs for boys and girls from the age of four through age sixteen. Driving into the Trojans packed parking lot on one of their weeknight practices, one quickly realizes that this organization is more than just football. It’s about a community. Sure, there was a lot of activity taking place by the six Trojan teams and their corresponding cheerleading squads, but it was as much about meeting friends as it was about preparing for a football game.

Interview with Daphne May Daphne, tell me, what is your relationship with the Turkey Creek Trojans? I am the vice-president. Our president, Joey Herring oversees the football operations and I help with a variety of functions, such as concessions and fundraising. I originally got involved because of my children. One plays football and the other cheers. Tell me about the Trojan organization. The Trojans have six teams. The youngest is made up mainly of four and ﬁve yearolds who play ﬂag football. The other teams are separated by age and weight. The Trojans compete in the Florida Youth Football and Cheerleading Association which is comprised of eight teams from our area. At the end of the regular season we have a playoff that leads to a Super Bowl game in each division. If someone were to ask you, “Why do the Trojans exist?” what would you say?

from the fundamentals of learning the game to becoming skilled athletes. The kids involved also learn discipline, sportsmanship, teamwork, how to develop friendships with players and to build relationships with their coaches. What kind of a season did the Trojans have last year? Last year all of our teams had winning records. Four teams qualiﬁed for the playoffs, three of those teams went to their Super Bowls, and two ended up as Super Bowl champs. How do the Trojans look this season? From all I’ve seen, and from what I’ve heard, they look pretty good! On our website we have eight criteria that we use at the end of every year to judge whether we’ve had a “winning season” or not. Things such as having fun, a sportsmanlike attitude, improved self-esteem, and furthering a player’s skill level are a few of the items we equate to “winning” more than we do the ﬁnal score. However, we’ll do pretty well on the scoreboard, too.

Our goal is to provide a highly structured football program that moves the players

2006 SCHEDULE August 19 August 26 September 2 September 9 September 16 September 23 September 30 October 7 October 14 October 21 October 28 October 29 November 4

Away vs. Brandon Cowboys Home vs. Dover Patriots BYE WEEK Home vs. Valrico Rams Home vs. Pinecrest Pilots Away vs. Antioch Redskins Home vs. Lakeland Gators Away vs. Brandon Lions Away vs. Pinecrest Pilots Away vs. Lakeland Gators Home vs. Brandon Cowboys TBA 1st Round of Playoffs Hosted by Turkey Creek Trojans, Brandon Lions, Lakeland Gators, and Valrico Rams November 18 2nd Round of Playoffs Hosted by Dover Patriots and Pinecrest Pilots December 2 Super Bowl FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 44

Varsity Coaches Joey Herring, James Wetherington, Justin Wetherington TURKEY CREEK TROJAN VARSITY FOOTBALL # 31 04 82 25 22 15 18 98 81

Last Name Castillo Hollis Ramos Moore Atkins Lee Clark Sierra Wood

First Name Ruben Alexander Hualy Brandon William Dominique Trevor Joey Ethan

# 23 56 35 93 46 28 66 72

Last Name Pedrosa Oosting Rauld Landers Trevino Tomas Harrer Duke

First Name Joseph Kenneth Gyno Kevin Luis Herrera John Alex

Junior Varsity Football Coaches Chris Cromie Sr., Rick Lee, Chris Cromie Jr., Pat Cromie, Steven Bargeron, Eugene Moody

Midget Football Coaches Dub Atkins, Jimmy Lawson, Craig Godwin, Rueben Epps

TURKEY CREEK TROJAN JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL

TURKEY CREEK TROJAN MIDGET FOOTBALL

Last Name

First Name

Last Name

First Name

Pitts

Terry

Vircik

Cory

Trevino

Jose

Cain

Nicholas

Lawerance

Jason

Richards

Thomas

Bargeron

Austin

Lively

Alexander

Dean

Durrance

Arron

Certilli

Euegene

Brown

Shelby

Tomlinson

Marcus

Seefus

Josh

Vining

Johnathon

Danley

Derrick

Lee

Darius

Lampp

Brian

Shertzinger

Pual

Perez

Alen

# 57 35 29 34 92 38 13 71 74 27 86 22 78 12 04 20 18

Last Name Kinkade Long St. John Messick Mullis Landry Glidden Glass Lawson Gorra Long Cole Winegeart Fernandez Almaguer Messick Rogers

First Name Chris Tyler J. Quinn Mckenzie Tyler Mark Dougie Alec Sean Aramis Tyler S. William Terran Austin Trey Dalton Justin

# 60 77 62 08 75 61 03 16 40 72 24 53 76 31 37 58 98

Last Name Crotts Epps Gatlin Carter Creech Ross Richardson Graham Crews Landers Braner Murphy Welch Blackmon Blackmon Clark St. John

First Name Dymond Hunter Deondre Norman Bobby Rodney Carlos Kerrick Dustin Brian Jared Jacob Dillon Bryce Chase Noah Corey

Super Midget Football Coaches Terry Pitts, Jinky Moody, Casey Mcclain, Wayne Henry, William Farmer

PeeWee Coaches Jimmy Lawson, Dub Atkins, Craig Godwin, Bobby Johnson

TURKEY CREEK TROJAN SUPER MIDGET FOOTBALL

TURKEY CREEK TROJAN PEE WEE FOOTBALL

# 25 22 85 10 48 70 18 91 15 09 23 21 87 32 05 47 45

Last Name Keys Calhoun Wimer Jones Outlaw Freeman Dean Simione Gilley Goerdt Murphy Pitt Caldwell Garrison Dowe Wilkerson Henry

First Name Jordan Mark Jordan Shane Xavier Tyler Zachary Anthony Bobby Sam Sean Richard Dylan Joshua Greyson Dalton Thomas

# 55 24 14 89 44 99 51 17 16 34 28 64 95 30 83 96

Last Name Wood Forte Strickland Perez Moore Carnell Webber Niven Moody Goad Bard Martin Dyer Mcfadden Williams Collins

First Name Alex Keshawn Austin Cameron Kyle Clint Daniel Jason Tyler Jacob Dquayvius Cody Austin Jamie Malik William

Last Name

First Name

Last Name

First Name

Ford

Samuel

Kenney

Shaun

Hunter

Kyran

Outlaw

Damian

Williams

Keenan

Wright

Austin

Todd

Edward

Wall

Johnathan

Wynn

Robert

Lumely

Austin

Forte

Jalen

Swinson

Andrew

Lawson

Joshua

Guzman

Isaac

Carlough

Kaelib

Artalona

Anthony

Creech

Trey

Carter

Maverick

Bevel

Jayven

Gilley

Austin

Smith

Bryan

Conrad

Daniel

Moody

Blake

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 45

Dover Patriots For over the thirty years, the Dover youth football team was known as the Cowboys. Due to the confusion of there being another Cowboys team in both their conference and division and for other various reasons, this is the second season that the team has been the Dover Patriots. Three generations of players have taken to the ﬁelds in Dover, today’s players participating in the same league as their grandfathers did. Both tradition and passion have contributed to the success that this league has had in impacting the lives of young men.

Interview with Derek Dodd

It’s not common to ﬁnd that rule for a lot of teams. Why do you feel it is important?

Derek Dodd, Vice President of the Board and Head Coach of the Midgets, is in his sixth season being involved with the Patriots. Focus interviewed him to ﬁnd out how the Patriots are doing. Why do you like volunteering your time with the Patriots?

Especially in the younger years, the players have to understand it is okay to hit and that it doesn’t hurt. The best way to learn that is in the game. They need to gain game experience before they can become better players. What do you think is good about kids playing football at such a young age?

I enjoy the sport and watching the kids play. We’re all here for the kids; that’s what it’s about. It’s not about win-win-win here. We have a minimum of 7 plays per player. As a coach, I strive to have more than that.

This sport teaches them about team, not I. Even in practice, if one person gets in trouble, the whole team runs. Everyone is here to support each other.

2006 SCHEDULE September 16

Away vs. Lions

October 28

September 23

Away vs. Pilots

November 4

Away vs. Redskins 1st Round of Playoffs (hosted by Pilots, Lions, Gators, Rams)

September 30

Home vs. Rams

October 7

Home vs. Gators

October 14

Home vs. Lions (Homecoming)

October 21

Away vs. Rams

November 18

2nd Round of Playoffs (hosted by Patriots & Trojans)

December 2

Super Bowl (hosted by Brandon Cowboys)

Varsity Coaches Nate Johnson, Nate Johnson Sr., Jud Smoot

Junior Varsity Football Coaches Ray Salinas, Chris Nix, Anthony Martinez, Jon Pieffer

DOVER PATRIOTS VARSITY FOOTBALL

DOVER PATRIOTS JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL

First Name

Last Name

First Name

Last Name

Jackie

McDaniel

Joshua

Dawson

Billy

Dawkins (III)

Chad

Beasley

Cody

Smoot

Jettrey

Mueller

William

Lilly

Redmond

Fernandez

Tommy

Duncan

Kyle

Kelsey

Michael

Dominguez

Baltazar

Morales

Shayne

Smoot

Jeffery

Henderson

Josh

McGregor

Travontae

Thomas

Corey

Idell

Nathaniel

Johnson

Geovany

Coreas

# 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 17 18 20 24 25 29 33

First Name John Andrew Trevor Samuel Cody Daniel Travaris Connor Douglas Steven Cedric Derek Brandon LaMarlin

Last Name Morrison Zuluaga Alvarez Greene Jr. Maund Wisnesky Thompson Vallee Maund Martinez Ward Peiffer Reaves Wiggins

# 40 55 56 57 58 61 63 64 66 81 84 86 00

First Name Kyle Andrew Anthony Kenneth Connor Derrick Douglas Dakota Billy David Christopher Zachary Ray

Last Name Merhar LePochat LePochat Rhule Rhule Danley Black Summers Blount Black Salinas Reid Salinas

# 1 2 5 6 7 9 11 12 15 19 20 23 24 25 26 28

Midget Football Coaches Derek Dodd, Michael Tolliver, Charles Hughes, John Summit, Allen Barber Jr., Robert Smith (Jake)

Super Midget Football Coaches Leslie Murphy, Chip Witte, Fabian Walker, Fred Zaferis, T.J. Phillips

DOVER PATRIOTS JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL

DOVER PATRIOTS SUPER MIDGET FOOTBALL

First Name Elijah Matthew Diontae A.J. Zaul Terrence Skyler Daniel Trenton Travis Leviticus Kenneth Phillip Reggie Joshua Jeremy

Last Name Spann Grifﬁn Johnson Wellman Perez Mackey Clark Hernandez Vanhoose Pierce Brown Davis Matthews Page Smith Jennings

# 35 36 37 40 41 44 45 49 50 54 55 77 81 88 92 98

First Name Zachory Alexandria Joshua Jordan George Michael Corey Dalton Juan Zack Nathan Matthew Gary Jordan Allen Nicholas

Last Name Dodd Reid Engram Sweet Campbell Tolliver Matthews Hughes Acosta Watts Godwin Wallace Hawkins Smith Barber III Summit

# 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 14 20 21 22 23 31 32 33

First Name David Archie Corey Demetrius Robert Eric Roger Christopher Antwan Derek Jose Deric Frederick Austin Bailey Jonathan Bryan Mickey

Last Name Waters Wright Turner Jess Purinton Hernandez Castle Clark Gordon Scott Ramirez Barber Jr. Zaferis Crawford Castle Summit Duelz Leonard

# 34 36 44 47 49 50 52 54 55 58 68 71 74 75 83 91 99

First Name Jesse Dylan Elijah Travis Raymond Kelly Jawan Justin Robert Kollin Robert Christian Joseph Jason Dalton Zachary Michael

Last Name Maund Lowe Morrison Murphy Sheets Barton Langston Kennedy Witte Swenson Smith Biddle LaBarbera LaBarbera Blount Frye Panos

PeeWee Football Coaches Jessie Staggs, Andrew Greczyn, Lawrence Williams, Billy Peel, Antonio Sykes, Mr. Ralls

Mighty Mite Coaches Mark Watts, Hector Rangel, Ben Martin

DOVER PATRIOTS PEE WEE FOOTBALL

DOVER PATRIOTS MIGHTY MITE FOOTBALL

First Name

Last Name

First Name

Last Name

First Name

Last Name

First Name

Last Name

Quentin

Curry

Jamal

Matthews

Devin

Tolliver

Noah

Ridley

William

Stock

Jacob

Reid

Gerrod

McGee

Dominic

Feijod

Jonathan

Salinas

Gemini

Huggins

Dwane

Everett

Matthew

Boatwright

Marquis

Morrison

Cody

Johns

Jayden

Campbell

Gavin

Barber

Richard

Johnn

Austin

Greczyn

Robert

Padron

Anthony

Watts

Antione

Thompson

Zachary

Williams

Peyton

Smrekar

Shaun

Sullivan

Alexander

Stock

Mark

Watts

Damian

Matthews

Dylan

Scott

Jessica

Watts

Shaquan

Honors

Matthew

Martinez

Jacob

Doon-Ralls

Michael

Morales

Carlos

Laboy

Jacob

Williams

Wade

Bowmer

Adam

Ibarra

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 47

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 48

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 49

HISTORY

DID YOU KNOW?

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Plant City Photo Archives, Inc.

Batteries Not Included MEMORIES OF CHILDHOOD Bob Leitner

Viewing the “When We Were Kids” photographs, currently on exhibit at the Plant City Photo Archives Exhibit Gallery, will bring back many memories of those fun-ﬁlled non-battery-operated toys. One thing is certain – no modernized electronic toy will ever replace our homemade toys and the battery-less toys of yesteryear.

intimidated by the sights and sounds which emanated from within this building. Handheld and life-size computer games beeped and blared, battery powered dolls raced by, chased by two little girls who could not ﬁgure out the radio control mechanisms; strobe light ﬁremen’s helmets lit one corner. Finding a toy that did not require the neverending battery replacement proved to be a daunting task, to say the least.

It’s no wonder kids are confused when making their Christmas wish lists these days. With so many choices it must be terribly difﬁcult to decide!

When did the toy scene become this modernized? Has it really been that long since we made our own soapbox cars, tin can phones, and scooters? We could not even ﬁnd a pair of roller skates – roller blades, yes, but no roller skates! Remember using the key to tighten the metal toe-clamps on our skates? Many of us remember roller skating every day until we wore out the skates.

On a recent visit to a local toy outlet we were amazed and a bit

Was that then the end of the fun? No way! Many a scooter was built

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 50

from those skates. Removing the wheels from the skates, we nailed the front wheels to one end of a threeto-four foot long board. The rear wheels were nailed to the other end. We would then go to the grocery store or farmers market and beg for orange crates, which were plentiful at that time. The crate was nailed upright to the front of the board. A broomstick, (hopefully one that grandma was not currently using), was then nailed across the top of the crate for handles. Away we ﬂew! Later, to make our scooters fancier, we would scrounge for tin cans or canning jar lids for headlights. The only limit in design was our imagination. Living in the country required a different kind of imagination. Not having paved roads made us take to making skim boards from pieces of plywood left over by a thoughtful dad or grandpa, from one of his projects. We took many a tumble, but oh, the fun!

And there were forts, and peahamper-lid shields, and slats for swords. We were knights in armor. Yes, those were the days. Enjoy the photographs. The Exhibit Gallery at the Plant City Photo Archives, 119 North Collins Street, is open to the public Thursday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sources: Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., and Plant City Photo Archives’ Oral History Project 2006.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 51

Platinum Bank

Enhancing the Success of Their Customers Story by Kristen Toney Photos by Sophia Dedon Although Platinum Bank speciﬁcally targets the business market in all the communities they serve, they also offer a full range of services to individuals that are looking for “high touch” service. The drive-in is open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and features a 24 hour drive-up ATM for customer safety. They offer checking, savings and money market accounts, as well as CD’s, safe deposit boxes and loans. When you call the bank you talk to a real person in the ofﬁce and you will not be asked to call an 800 number to assist you with your question. They believe in providing service the old fashioned way.

Caption: [L to R] Back Row: Tod Pukas, Linda Orvis, Susan Baggett, Sue Salvato, and Bob Tanner. Front Row: Kathy Coats, Beverly Smith, and Maria Jameson.

In 1997, a group of local business people came together with the idea of starting a new bank in the Brandon community. They wanted experienced and well-known bankers to be investors and operate the bank on a day to day basis to ensure the success of the new venture. Once they found the right management team they decided to select the name “Platinum,” allowing the bank to expand outside the Brandon market in the future. In addition to the original office in Brandon, the bank also has offices in Lakeland and Tampa and the newest office in Plant City. The bank has over $300 million in assets and has a total of 5 full service offices to serve the growing customer base.

“Our best assets are customer service and our experienced personnel” Executive Vice President Bob Tanner stated. “We hire very experienced people.” Tanner himself has been in banking since 1969, with Senior Lender Tod Pukas coming in with 21 years of experience, and Susan Baggett with 19 years of experience. Sue Salvato, V.P. & Ofﬁce Manager, Kathy Coates as Customer Service Representative, Linda Orvis as Loan Administrator, Maria Jameson as Head Teller and Beverly Smith as Teller, have all had many years of banking experience, bringing the total banking experience to well over 100 years working for you in one building. In addition, they have a local Board of Directors presently consisting of Dan Raulerson, Chairman, Gail McGrath, Charles White, Kimball Wetherington and Rick Lott. “Our board members have been an important part

In June of 2002, a loan production ofﬁce was opened in the Dollar Tree shopping center at the corner of James L. Redman Parkway and Alexander Street while the bank looked for a site to build the permanent facility in Plant City. The permanent site at 1804 James L. Redman Parkway (next to Walgreen’s) was purchased in 2004 and construction began in April 2005. The ﬁnal product is a beautiful 2-story building that has been well received by everyone in the community as an outstanding architectural addition to the area.

Bob Tanner, Executive VP / Market Executive, has led the team at Platinum Bank to become a great addition to the Plant City community FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 52

ers coming up and they couldn’t communicate. So the tellers made signs that said ‘Welcome’ and ‘Thank You,’ and the customers loved it. Some of them were writing notes back to them!”

Susan Baggett, Vice President Commercial Lender

Tod Pukas, Sr. Vice President / Senior Lender

of our success. They have referred some of our existing clients to us and keep us informed on ways to serve the local community better,” stated Tanner. “We appreciate their support and look forward to their continued involvement in helping us grow this office.” With employees at Platinum Bank involved in Rotary, Kiwanis, the Chamber of Commerce, and supporting The Boy Scouts, Boys & Girls Club, various little league teams and the YMCA, the commitment to our city stands firm. “I was Chamber president in 1996 and served on the board for 10 years,” Tanner recalls. “We were also one of the major donors to the expansion of the emergency room at South Florida Baptist Hospital, and I serve on the Foundation Board for the hospital, as well.” “We are very capable of delivering all the services any business or individual would need,” Tanner stated. “With our level of experience and our excellent turnaround time, we are able to provide answers to loan requests promptly. We operate like a “Private” bank. We take an entrepreneurial approach in the structuring of a loan that provides advice on many different solutions and is successful in taking our customers to the next level. It’s all about responsiveness to clients and making them feel good about being here, and I think Platinum Bank as a whole, and certainly the Plant City office, strives to do that every day, and we have a lot of fun while we’re doing it!” Platinum Bank believes its employees are its best asset, which is obvious due to their almost nonexistent turnover rate and the consistent high service level they deliver to all their customers. “We had a terrible lightning storm here last week,” Tanner remembers. “It knocked the speakers out in the drive-through. Of course we called for the service people, but in the meantime we still had custom-

All those affiliated with Platinum Bank are very thankful to the community for being so supportive of the bank in its first year in the new full service office. In fact, the bank was the winner of the “Growing Business” of the year awarded by the Plant City Chamber of The Friendly staff, such as Commerce at its annual business Kathy Coats, are always available to help with any questions awards banquet. “Our growth the first year has been outstanding and we want to thank everyone who has helped us.” stated Tanner. “We love Plant City,” enthused Tanner. “We obviously made a major commitment here in terms of building a firstclass facility. The first year, it’s just been overwhelming the support we’ve had. Far beyond our expectations, and we set some pretty high ones. It’s been great, and we look forward to contributing to the Plant City community and to growing our customer base for many years to come.”

Beverly Smith and Maria Jameson are the friendly faces that will always greet you when you come through the drive-thru or the teller windows

The entire staﬀ, such as Linda Orvis and Sue Salvato, work together as a team to provide the best service for their customers

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 53

Sisters and Company The One-Stop Shop for Ladies Story & Photos by Sophia Dedon

Sisters and Company is located at 104 East Reynolds St. in downtown Plant City.

Cathy Davenport, owner, with her daughter Devony Scott.

Whether you are shopping to spoil yourself or ﬁnd a special gift for someone else, Sisters & Company has everything a woman wants. From costume jewelry to Vera Bradley, any woman will be able to enter the store and ﬁnd something they wish they could call their own.

the season’s new trends to bring home for the women of Plant City. In fact, all of this season’s merchandise hit the store the beginning of September. If you want to get ahead of the trends, visit the store today to get your new wardrobe and accessories.

Cathy Davenport opened Sisters ten years ago in downtown Plant City, and it is now located in the beautiful Mann building. Just the environment of the store is simply breathtaking. The existing ceilings and much of the décor has been restored to its original beauty, creating the perfect atmosphere for an enjoyable shopping experience. In 2000, Devony Scott, Cathy’s daughter, came to Sisters full time and the two successfully are running the Plant City location, as well as locations in Dade City and Lake Wales.

“The great thing about accessories,” said Cathy, “Is that you can make the clothes you already have in your wardrobe look new.” Sisters carries Brighton accessories, as well as the handmade Emily Ray jewelry from South Carolina. From eight to 80, every girl or woman can ﬁnd fun accessories to spice up their wardrobe. Vera Bradley not only has luggage, purses and travel accessories, but also recently released a line of pet merchandise!

Cathy and Devony travel all over the United States visiting cities such as New York and Atlanta to ﬁnd all

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 54

Men also ﬁnd Sisters a very convenient store to shop in. Sisters offers the option to women to make a personal wish list to keep on ﬁle. Then, their husbands can come

into the store, pick up the list, shop around knowing which things their wives like and walk out knowing they purchased a gift their wives will love, while still feeling like they personally selected it. They also keep their apparel on top of all the season’s trends. Their staple jeans, Jag Jeans, are not only beautiful and fit well but are also comfortable. They have clothes to fit every customer. Much of the apparel is trendy, but a large portion is also simple and classy. There are clothes to satisfy women of all ages and tastes. Another aspect of shopping that makes Sisters the place you want to go is the convenience of shopping for designer products without going to the malls. They make shopping easy for the women in Plant City. Not to mention the fact that when you need to find a last-minute gift, Sisters is the place to go.

are looking for, guaranteeing you will be happy with your purchase. You will look and feel great wearing anything you buy at Sisters. Recently, they expanded their merchandise, carrying chocolates and other treats women love. The perfect lunch stop next door, Courtyard Café, even carries some of the merchandise. If you have never visited Sisters, or maybe it’s been a while, you need to stop in today to treat yourself to something special. Sisters and Company is located at 104 East Reynolds St. in downtown Plant City. The phone number for more information is 813-754-0990. Drop in today to ﬁnd the perfect gift or pamper yourself a little!

Cathy and Devony emphasize to the girls working there that hospitality is key. Every customer who walks through the door is given personal attention. There is always someone available to assist you in ﬁnding exactly what you Hannah Hodge, a Sisters associate, is arranging a display. The apparel and accessories she is wearing are all from Sisters. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 55

SFBH’s New Outpatient Rehabilitation Center Restores Healthy Functioning and Mobility Story by Cheryl Johnston Photos by Cheryl Johnston & Sophia Dedon

Staﬀ not photographed: Kim Boully, PT; Susan Levines, PT; Tracie Mejia, PT; JoEllen Falany, SLP; Sharlie Peletier, COTA; Ella Knapp, Patient Access; and Brandy Gadsby, Rehab Tech.

Plant City is proud of our progressive South Florida Baptist Hospital, which offers top rate medical care by compassionate professionals working to restore health for area residents. SFBH recently expanded its outpatient rehabilitation services to the conveniently located Walden Lake Medical Arts Building at the intersection of Alexander Street and Timberlane Drive. Additionally, with the Emergency Center project’s recent completion, the vacated space at the hospital is being remodeled as a new home for wound care, along with both outpatient and cardiac rehabilitation services. As demand increases, these improvements are just one more way SFBH will meet customers’ needs. The combined experience of the new SFBH Outpatient Rehabilitation Center’s therapy staff is 107 years. Four physical therapists, one occupational therapist and one speech/language pathologist serve patients after surgeries, car accidents, strokes or even sports-related injuries. The therapists feel gratiﬁcation in helping patients recover quickly. In the process, these professionals establish friendships with patients and their families who offer never-ending gratitude for quality of life differences those therapies provide. The pulleys help improve James Knight’s shoulder mobility. Mr. Knight has now experienced relief of his shoulder pain that has bothered him for years. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 56

Immediately following his (CIPD) after suffering the flu first hip replacement surin August of 2005. One of gery in June, retired school only a few cases in Florida, this rare disease attacks district personnel director through a viral infection. The Ronald Tindle was referred to immune system harms the BayCare by his surgeon, Dr. nervous system because it John Carrozzella. This acfalsely recognizes the protective, outdoor-type Plant City tive myelin surrounding the native was slightly anxious about hip surgery because he patient’s spine as an invader expected a strenuous recuperand destroys the protective ation. Tindle is delighted to membrane. Cheryl experienced extreme weakness, recommend SFBH’s staff and Physical Therapist and Rehab Manager, Olan Deguzman, assists SFBH Marketing Director Shannon Mitchell with therapy to improve foot mobility following recent surgery. services because the experibecoming unable to sit, stand, enced care helped him climb or walk. Forced to leave her accounting job and rely on her up on his tractor and four-wheeler mother’s help while in and out of once again. After hunting season, he hospitals, Cheryl began therapy with anticipates surgery on the other hip, the SFBH staff. Now, she expects to but this time without the anxiety. regain 95% of functioning capabil“Therapy is the key to recovery. I’m ity. “Therapy – it’s tough, but you a firm believer now. Don’t hesitate to get help from SFBH’s Outpatient have to do it. SFBH has provided Rehab Center.” excellent doctors and therapists, who’ve been absolutely wonderful The center offers therapies for moral supporters. Don’t hesitate to reconstructive protocols, geriatrics, seek the help you need.” neurology, physical conditioning, fractures, scar management, carpal Word of mouth has proven the best tunnel, speech difficulties, flexibiladvertising for SFBH’s new Outpaity, pain reduction and daily living tient Rehab Center. Many doctors activities, to name only a few. Olan now refer patients to the new outpaDeguzman, manager of Rehabilitatient clinic since witnessing amazing tion Services at SFBH and one of results after serious surgeries and Nancy Squitieri performs manual therapy to conditions. Another plus for patients the licensed physical therapists says, alleviate headache of her patient, Susan Knight. is that Medicare capitation “We help patients through is not affected by services education, consistent obfrom BayCare, since it is the servation intertwined with only hospital-based therapy therapy, and follow-up calls center here. “Patients are not as needed to maintain motinumbers at SFBH. Healthy vation. We promote exercise families are our tradition,” to build confidence and help adds Deguzman. them achieve their functional goals. Although pain in For information or to schedhealing may be inevitable, ule an appointment, call 813patients need not endure it forever. There is relief.” 707-9362. Better yet, stop in to see the new facility at Just ask 31-year-old Cheryl 1601 West Timberlane Drive, Fournier, diagnosed with where your restored health Chronic Inflammatory Demyand mobility is their main Occupational Therapist Dave Davenport assists patient Ana Torres with desensitization technique. elinating Polyneurotherapy concern.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 57

Discount Screening

Emphasizes Quality and Customer Service Story by Daniel Sperry Photos Courtesy of Discount Screening Marty Johnson has done it all. As a sub-contractor throughout the eighties, he performed many kinds of aluminum repair work. But one type of request always seemed to come his way. “I kept getting calls to come out and fix people’s screens,” says Johnson. “Whenever there was a damaged lanai or pool enclosure, I was the one everyone knew could fix it.” Seeing a need in the community for a quality screen repair company, Johnson eventually decided to focus on that work exclusively. “I had a good background in it, and I wanted to provide people quality service because I knew I could do it the right way,” said Johnson. Johnson formed Discount Screening Inc. in 1981 and from the beginning, he was determined that his company would be a leader in responsiveness and quality. Discount Screening Inc. only uses the best available screening materials that are long-lasting and durable. “I don’t believe in cutting corners,” says Johnson, “which is why I don’t like to use imported screen, also known as China screen, because it is poor quality that won’t perform well.” Pet doors are a great example. Discount Screening can put a pet door into an existing lanai, so customer’s pets can get out into the yard by themselves. In addition, there are pet screens available that can be retrofitted into a lanai. These screens are seven times stronger than an ordinary screen, and help keep pets from breaking them.

Workers for Discount Screening doing pool cage repairs

Another screening option that a lot of people have not heard of is privacy screens. “It’s called ‘Florida glass,” said Johnson. “And there are aluminum screens too, called Union Jack.” There are a variety of designs to choose from, which give the lanai a different look from the outside, but do not interfere with the view from the inside.

Double doors can be installed.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 58

A screen the two 9 month old pet mastiﬀs destroyed

The same screen repaired with Union Jack, an aluminum form of screening that prevents against damages such as these

One of the most important features of Discount Screening Inc.’s service is the quality of the supplies and products that they use. Marty Johnson is adamant about doing everything the right way.

Johnson says that the majority of his customers live here in Plant City. “It’s important to do a good job,” he says. “Word gets around.”

“There are different qualities of screen out there,” he says, “but I only use the best.”

With over 20 years experience specializing in rescreening and repair, Discount Screening is a great choice. Some of the services they provide are: pool enclosure rescreening, lanai and patio rescreening, screen door and replacement services and vinyl window revinyling.

But what about customer service? Marty Jocz recently hired Discount Screening to do some work on their lanai and install a new door. They were thrilled with the level of service they received. “It is rare, especially in Florida, to ﬁnd a contractor that not only shows up for an appointment, but is also timely and professional,” says Jocz. They “showed up immediately and were reasonable with the pricing.” Jocz says that the crew was polite and went directly about their work, making very little noise and cleaning up their mess when they were done. “They completed the job and it looks great!” he says. “It’s nice to have competent people.”

Before

A new service is offered by Discount Screening Inc. It is a screen slider system that can be installed on a garage, effectively adding an extra room to a house. Other services Discount Screening Inc. can provide are: replacing damaged down spout, repairing screen doors, gutters, and pool cage cable ties. Discount Screening is licensed and insured and all labor and materials are warranted. They also accept insurance claims. Discount Screening is located at 1406 W Knights Grifﬁn Rd. For more info call 813-752-3306.

After FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 59

Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio Your One-Stop Beauty Shop

Story by Sherry Baldwin Photos by Sherry Baldwin and courtesy of Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio Scooter Pie purses, a must-have for the season, are available.

Founded in Los Angeles, California 75 years ago, Merle Norman Cosmetics currently includes approximately 2,000 independently owned and operated cosmetic studios throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. As an exclusive distributor of Merle Norman cosmetic products, Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio, located in Plant City, offers specialized personal services, superior quality products and free consultations to all customers, as well as free ear piercing, and free hydrating facials. Also, Merle Norman would like to invite you in for your special occasion, whether for back to school, new looks, weddings, prom or homecoming. They truly stand behind their products with customer satisfaction guaranteed. Wearing the products every day, each employee has conﬁdence that their product is superior in quality. “Merle Norman supports and stands behind each and every studio owner. Their dedication, excellent training and products, (which are 100% guaranteed),

help produce successful and devoted studio owners,” stated Hollie Clark. Earlier this year, Hollie Clark and daughter MacKenzie Clark, owners of the Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio located in Plant City, traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada to attend the 75th Annual Merle Norman Convention. Held at Caesars Palace, the convention was attended by almost 1,600 delegates. During a special ceremony, each studio afﬁliate was honored for their individual years of commitment and service to Merle Norman Cosmetics. To celebrate 25 years with Merle Norman, Hollie Clark proudly accepted the company’s Recognition of Service pin by Merle Norman’s Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, Art Armstrong. Hollie expressed that she feels a great sense of loyalty to Merle Norman. Her daughter MacKenzie also shared that she felt honored to receive her 5 year pin this year. MacKenzie

With a little help from Hollie Clark, Judy Pahucki and Debbie Brightwell, MacKenzie Clark (center) tries out Merle Norman Cosmetics’ groovy new shades. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 60

Studio Owner, Hollie Clark, doing Helen Parks makeover for a special occasion.

Some of the great unique gift items that Merle Norman Cosmetics has to oﬀer.

believes that being introduced to such a great company is the opportunity of a lifetime. Back home from their fabulous trip, Hollie and MacKenzie would like to welcome everyone to stop by and take a peek at the “groovy” shades of the Fall 2006 Color Collection, “Going Mod,” sixties-inspired trends with a contemporary twist. The Going Mod story is graphic-based with pops of color. Black, white, gray and brown are balanced with vibrant green, blue and orange for a totally hip look. The look of the season starts with a wink to the 60’s. LUXIVA ® Lasting Eyecolor Trio features creative color combinations for eye-popping effects: Blue Me Away or In the Lime-light. Of course the mod movement would not be complete without loads of liner and mascara. For ample lashes, use LUXIVA ® Ultra Thick Mascara. To keep the emphasis on eyes, a trace of blush kisses cheeks. To harmonize with the season’s electric eyes, lips and nails get a creamy coat of innocent-looking color. Hands and feet also get in the mood for mod with three swanky new shades. More surprises are also available at your local Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio where Hollie and MacKenzie are eager to introduce the latest in skin care advancements, including LUXIVA ® Derma-Peel System, a two-step kit that works like a professional chemical peel to unveil younger-looking skin; LUXIVA ® Clear Complexion, a three-step acne system designed to help clear up breakouts and prevent new blemishes without irritating the skin; LUXIVA ® Clarifying Clay Mask, which draws out impurities and minimizes the appearance of

Drop by Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios and get your own pair of personalized Rhinestone Roxy Flipﬂops.

Merle Norman Cosmetics’ wonderful nail tech Debbie Brightwell doing her client Sharron Lions.

pores; and LUXIVA ® Wrinkle Smoother Lips, an anti-aging treatment that helps stop lip color bleeding. Exciting breakthroughs for the color category included LUXIVA ® Xtra Length Mascara, a lightweight formula with a patented brush design for creating long lashes; and LUXIVA ® Eye Mousse, a light whipped shimmery eye shadow that cools and soothes lids. Rounding out the product unveilings were new shade introductions for Color IQ. Promoted as a “smart” way to select color, Color IQ features even more color choices and a fresh new face for the campaign. Try to get to Merle Norman as soon as possible, because at Merle Norman there are free gifts for all seasons when you purchase two or more Merle Norman products while supplies last. In addition to skin care and cosmetic products, Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio offers manicures, pedicures and free ear piercing (ages 3 months and up with ﬁrst set of shots) with the purchase of earrings. Fabulous Scooter Pie Designs include personalized purses and accessories. Clean burning Bridgewater candles are also available. Don’t forget Merle Norman does offer makeovers for special occasions too! Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios is located at 1514 S. Alexander Street, Suite 102, Plant City. Studio hours are: TuesdayFriday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. & Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. For more info or to schedule an appointment please call 813-752-4718. Gift certiﬁcates are available. All major credit/debit cards, cash and checks accepted.

The girls at Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios will help make every visit fun! FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 61

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Making Changes to Make You Happy Story by Sophia Dedon Photos by Sophia Dedon and Courtesy of the Holiday Inn Express

The Holiday Inn Express is well known for their delicious cinnamon rolls!

Family Owned and Operated, CAH Properties has been doing business in Florida since 1960. Charlie Harris and his son, Charles purchased the Holiday Inn Express Plant City on July 12, 2001. This hotel is the ﬁrst of many future hotels the company plans on owning and operating in the surrounding area. CAH Properties is heavily investing in numerous important upgrades that will not only beneﬁt the hotel but will also affect the surrounding area in times of need.

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The most important addition to the property is the Emergency Generator. During the past couple of years, Plant City has experienced an increase in the number of hurricanes or tropical storms heading our way. This has Plant City residents and surrounding areas possibly needing a hotel if their homes lose power or must evacuate due to the storms. Hotels are just as susceptible to losing power as anyone else. However, the Holiday Inn Express Plant City has made a commitment to all of our customers that power outages

will no longer be an issue because the generator will operate the entire hotel as normal. Guests of the hotel would never even know that the power is out. “This generator was an important addition and a great benefit for the area, as no other hotel in Eastern Hillsborough County that we know of has 100% Emergency Generated Power,” said General Manager, Charles Harris. The first feature that has been introduced is the Holiday Inn Express Start® Breakfast Bar. The breakfast bar has been redesigned, presenting a refreshing, inviting breakfast experience to welcome each morning. Every Express Start® Breakfast Bar also offers a great selection of juices, fruits, cereals, hardboiled eggs, biscuits and gravy, and arguably the best cinnamon roll this world has witnessed; the finest cinnamon and the perfect amount of frosting all spiraled up into one truly

outstanding roll. The coffee has also been developed exclusively for Holiday Inn Express; Smart Roast® is truly a superior cup of coffee. It starts with slow-roasted 100% Arabica beans, which are carefully blended, ground and brewed to the finest specifications. With all of this, Holiday Inn Express also gives you a breakfast bar host to ensure you have the freshest, bestquality breakfast every time you visit. Quite possibly, this is the most rewarding experience you will have all day. The second feature that has been introduced is the Holiday Inn Express Simply Smart® Guest Bathroom. Holiday Inn Express and Kohler have designed a specific showerhead to be used only at their hotels. They feature a sleek, stylish brushed chrome finish with three powerful spray settings. These shower heads are designed to adjust the water flow pressure assuring that your shower experience will be just as exhilarating whether you are the only guest taking a shower or everyone is taking a shower simultaneously. The shower curtain rods have also been replaced with curved shower curtain rods that add 25% to your shower space. This increase in space gives the guest more shoulder room as well as keeps the shower curtain from touching the body during showering as they used

to with a conventional shower curtain rod. The program has also offered a new line of bathing amenities (Soap, Shampoo, Conditioner and more), cinnamon scented for your enjoyment, as well as the 100% Cotton Simply Smart® Embroidered towels. The last physical feature to be introduced is the new Holiday Inn Express Simply Smart® Bedding Collection. This program will be introduced this fall. Everyone knows someone or may even be that person who makes his or her first duty after checking into a hotel throwing the comforter onto the floor, believing it to be dirty. This program will replace that thought by substituting the comforter with a quilted duvet blanket and a decorative top sheet. This sateen weave decorative sheet is washed after every stay, giving the guest assurance everything has been freshly cleaned specifically for them. The bedding collection will also include fitted sheets, two flat sheets to allow for triple sheeting, quilted duvet blanket, colorful accent throw, decorative top sheet and both soft and firm pillows. Although the many changes at the Holiday Inn Express are exciting, the same aspects you previously have loved about the hotel are not chang-

Charles Harris, General Manager, next to the generator they recently purchased that can operate the entire hotel.

ing. The hotel is speciﬁcally designed to accommodate both corporate and leisure travelers. With security in mind, the hotel was built with many features to keep their guests safe during their stay. The most important feature is the interior corridor layout of the hotel. This layout has the guestrooms lined along well-lit interior hallways inside the building’s four stories. Being that the Holiday Inn Express is a limited service hotel, it allows the guests to quickly check in, get settled in their rooms and begin taking care of business or simply relaxing. The free wireless Internet service in the lobby and secure hardwired Internet services in the guest rooms are always appealing to all travelers. The hotel also has two meeting facilities that can be custom arranged to take care of all your meetings and training events. If you or someone you know is looking for a hotel or meeting place in Plant City, please call the Holiday Inn Express today at 813-719-3800. The hotel is conveniently located right off Interstate 4 exit 22 at 2102 North Park Road. You may also visit the website for more information at www.hiexpress.com/plantcityﬂ.

The staﬀ at the Holiday Inn Express in Plant City are both friendly and helpful FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 63

Servpro

Like it Never Happened Story by John Garrod Photos by Sophia Dedon and courtesy of Servpro James Johnigean’s Servpro franchises are among the most successful in the Servpro chain. When you meet him and hear his philosophies of management and customer service, it’s easy to see why. Johnigean’s career with Servpro began after a serious injury ended his college football scholarship. “In my family, it was simple: get a scholarship, or get a job. We were so poor, our idea of fast food was a rabbit,” says Johnigean. After a year of physical therapy, he went to work with his former junior high school football coach on a cleaning crew, earning $4.00 an hour. Working hard, James quickly climbed up the ladder to manage a franchise in Daytona Beach, and then took over a bankrupt franchise in Gainesville in 1985. By 1987, the Gainesville franchise was the largest in the Southeast. In 1988, James received the coveted “Servpro Sammy” award, the highest honor bestowed upon a Servpro franchise owner. By 1990, the franchise was producing revenues in the millions. After the devastation of Hurricane Andrew, Johnigean saw a greater opportunity to serve commercial clients and pursue a larger market. In 1991, he and his partner Wilma,

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 64

who is also his mother, sold the Gainesville stores and moved to Brandon to start over. The Johnigeans now operate ﬁve franchises surrounding Tampa and Clearwater. Their sales volume last year was in excess of ten million dollars. “The founders never imagined this kind of volume,” laughs Johnigean. His formula for success is simple: “You can achieve anything you wish if you don’t care who gets the credit.” The Johnigean franchises not only serve the local area, they travel the country assisting the other 1,300+ franchises with jobs that exceed their capabilities. Their franchises now constitute the largest water damage ﬁrm in the Servpro system, with 9 mobile units housing over 7,000

pieces of specialized drying and dehumidiﬁcation equipment. With a Class “A” General Contractors License, we are able to repair any building, any size, anywhere.”

ment of USF&G, bringing with him knowledge invaluable to clients trying to recover from disaster. Bernie also handles the marketing efforts for the franchises.

“We’ve come so far with this little cleanup business, starting with just my mother and I and one employee,” says Johnigean. “Today, we are truly a ‘ﬂy by night company,’ as we now have corporate jet service that can have our management team on site anywhere in the U.S. within a few hours for catastrophic incidents. Our motto is ‘Around the clock, around the country.’”

Johnigean says, “We treat our clients homes and businesses as if they were our own. We are thankful to the business and home owners of Plant City for giving us the opportunity to assist them in their times of need. I tell my employees, it’s what happens after you call us that makes Servpro different.” That feeling is evident in the ways Servpro supports the communities that support them, sponsoring Little League teams, Boy & Girl Scouts, and Boys & Girls Clubs, as well as middle and high school athletics.

Johnigean’s management team is key to the company’s success, he says. His mother Wilma has managed the entire ofﬁce and claims processing portion of the business for twenty of the twenty-two years that James has been in business. John Johnigean, James’s brother, has managed the service function for seventeen years, and is the holder of the company’s General Contractor’s license. Bernie Tobin, the newest member of the management team, left the insurance industry after years with the claims depart-

Servpro is located at 7400 E. Broadway Blvd. in Tampa. For more info call (813) 719-8311.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 65

Curves

Helping Women Make Dreams a Reality Story & Photos by Sophia Dedon

Ten years ago, Curves realized there was an entire group of people not actively attending gyms...out of shape women. For most women who don’t feel comfortable with their bodies, the average fitness center is intimidating on many levels. At Curves there are no mirrors and no men. The hydraulic equipment is user friendly but highly effective with no weight stacks to manage. Prior to Curves, most women had no other choice than to buy into the slick advertising of fad diets and the promise of fast weight loss with diet pills. Since we all know diet pills and fad diets don’t work, Curves developed the perfect exercise solution. Curves is a women only fitness facility that is ideal for ladies off all ages. From nine to ninety, the workout makes you feel and look great. The concept behind Curves is to rotate between a cardio workout and strength training. The machines are set up in a circuit, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and support. Strength training had been the missing link to women’s fitness. The successful response to this new fitness concept has led Curves to be the largest fitness franchise in the world and the fastest growing franchise ever in the history of the world! Time after time, commercials on TV feature women who either took a pill or bought a fitness machine and miraculously dropped dozens of pounds. Often times, it’s questionable if it’s even the same person in the before and after pictures shown. Well, if you are tired of seeing pictures on a TV and would like to meet some real women from your home town who have changed their lives, just step into Curves. Nancy Dupre lost over 70 pounds in just over a year. She has gone from a size 24 to a size 6! FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 66

Nancy Dupre lost over 70 pounds in just over a year. She has gone from a size 24 to a size 6! When asked what she would tell others about Curves, she simply stated, “It works.” Nancy works out 6 days a week for 30 minutes a day and has seen drastic changes in her life. By exercising and eating healthy, she has more energy and a completely new wardrobe. Her goal was a size 8 but her healthy habits have helped her surpass that. “I’m happy with my size now,” said Nancy, “I just want to maintain it.” She still can be seen most mornings at 6:30 a.m. working out at Curves.

Before joining Curves, Nancy was on cholesterol medications, and justiﬁed it by telling herself it was hereditary. After exercising and changing her diet, she no longer needs the medication. “Dropping from 197 pounds to 133 not only changes your health, but your all around life style” says Nancy. Working with her doctor through the process, her only goal was to become healthy. Now, what took such change before is simple habit for Dee Cox. Since January, she has not eaten any processed sugar. Her ﬁrst taste of it will be a slice of her daughter’s wedding cake.

If Nancy’s story sounds like a one-in-a-million shot, there are certainly others. Another Plant City Curves member, Dee Cox, lost over 60 pounds in one year. She joined in September 2005 because she wanted to lose weight for her daughter’s wedding. She started with the Curves 6 week solution, which is weight management program featuring permanent weight loss without permanent dieting.

For any ladies wanting change in their lives, maybe even wanting to have a testimony like Nancy or Dee, then Curves is the place for you. Curves is a workout routine that works for every woman. If you are ready to get in shape, start today by calling the Plant City Curves at 813-719-1822. The unbelievably friendly staff will be excited to help you. Stop by and meet them at 1822 James L. Redman Parkway in the Strawberry Plaza.

Dee Cox lost over 60 pounds in one year, dropping from 197 to 133 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 67

Fancypet Petstore Make Your Pet a Fancypet Story and Photos by Sherry Baldwin

Fancypet Petstore located on Alexander Street in Plant City

Fancypet Petstore owner and local resident, Stephen Tippie, recently shared how in 2003, at the young age of 17, he began his thriving pet business. Tippie further shared that while building his business he graduated from Middleton High School’s Aerospace Engineering and Technology Program, became an Eagle Scout through Local Boy Scout Troop 14 and is now in college. While he initially set up shop at a local outlet mall, Tippie soon made the decision to move to a storefront on Alexander Street in Plant City - a decision he has not regretted. According to Tippie, the move allowed him to triple his original inventory. As one of the area’s few “licensed sellers of small exotic animals,” Fancypet Petstore also has one of the largest and most complete selections of pets and supplies in the area as well. Exotic birds, reptiles, small animals, exotic rodents and tropical ﬁsh are all on display for sale. Special orders are also available.

tion directly from the breeder as it relates to the care of the animals. In addition, Fancypet Petstore carries a wide selection of toys and treats for your pet. Well-balanced foods as well as supplies such as aquariums, cages and accessories can also be found at this well-respected pet store. Fancypet further recognizes that purchasing a pet is adding a member to the customer’s family. Therefore, professional counseling on the care of your pet is always available as well. Tippie stated that he pushes “knowledge not sales” to assist his valued customers. In fact, what he doesn’t know he will “gladly research.”

Uniquely special about Fancypet Petstore is the fact that many of the smaller animals are bred and raised on the Tippie family’s own farm right here in Plant City. Normal, Fancy and Dwarf Hamsters, gerbils, fancy mice, rats, guinea pigs, reptiles, feeders, small exotics and birds are just some of the animals on their farm. Tippie also shared that he hand picks the fish and animals his family does not raise. He sees this as a great benefit because he knows the health and quality of the animal. It also provides him the opportunity to gather informaFancypet Petstore staff Chris Taylor, Susin Tippie, Stephen Tippie, Butch Tippie and Jason Tippie

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 68

Fancypet also carries a number of pet instructional books and offers customers the opportunity to network. Drop by and check out the community bulletin board located in the store.

their commitment, experience and expertise, Fancypet Petstore has established a business relationship with customers that will last a lifetime. They welcome you to join the Fancypet Family!

The highly motivated staff at Fancypet Petstore works hard at creating a family friendly environment in which to shop. They also strive to provide only the best service to you and your pets. “It is our duty to help you in every need pertaining to your pets,” shared Tippie. “We promise to supply you with all the information needed when purchasing a new pet, and we will suggest the best nutritional diet for the new addition to your family. With our own formulated food, your pet will have the healthiest diet and greatest life span.” Tippie also added that Fancypet will provide “top-notch pets and pet supplies, great customer support and prices that can’t be beat!” Through

To meet the needs of their growing list of customers, keep watching as Fancypet expands to include over 60 varieties of fresh water ﬁsh, 30 varieties of salt water ﬁsh, as well as a larger selection of quality lines of pet foods and supplies. Fancypet Petstore is located at 1514 South Alexander Street, Suite 108 in Plant City. Store hours are Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Their telephone number is 813-719-1129. You may also visit them on the web at www.fancypet-petstore.com.

Sylvester the Shop Kitty

Fancypet Petstore owner Stephen Tippie providing customer with advice on his pet’s dietary needs

Customer Gina Norris with one of Fancypet’s beautiful birds

Chris Taylor, of Fancypet Petstore, with Pablo the Chinchilla FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 69

Plant City Children’s Theater

Creativity and Community Service Begin Here Story by Cheryl Johnston Photos courtesy of Jackie’s Dance Theater The Plant City Children’s Theater helps thousands of area children participate in parades, dance, stage drama, and community service, all because one tiny woman dreamed of creating opportunities for rural children to experience the magic of theater and live performance. Jackie Everidge, founder and Artistic Director, delights in watching fascinated kids discover talents, overcome fear, and become conﬁdent, poised young women and men. The performing arts are alive and thriving in Plant City, thanks to the Everidge family’s passion. The Plant City Children’s Theater, founded in 1984, is a non-proﬁt 501C3 corporation. Jackie Everidge has taught dance for 49 years at Jackie’s Dance Studio, which means she’s taught the granddaughters of former students who are now grandmothers. Ultimately, she creates opportunities for local children to develop artistic talent to their highest potential. This dream is now a hugely successful reality. Attending the children’s theater production of The Nut-

A scene from Annie

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cracker in December is a wonderful Plant City family Christmas Children’s Theater president, Katherine Myers, with daughter Kelsey posing in front of an oil painting tradition. of Jackie with her daughter/partner Sharon Everidge Who among us has never “oohed and aahed” when children take to the stage? Students also perform in spring and summer productions, as well as the Strawberry Festival and city parades. Recently, the “Elvis” revue wowed audiences as Gary “Elvis” Britt, well-known impersonator, sang while the themed costume dancers performed routines to the rock-and-roll king’s most popular hits. Jackie Everidge, along with her husband Buddy and daughter Sharon, volunteer time, money, facilities, energy, and compassion to beneﬁt children who imagine them-

Cats

The scarecrow

Scholarship winners

Free classes to schools, churches and childrens homes

selves on stage. Along with performance skill lessons, this community-minded family encourages talent and character development, in the tiniest to the college bound, through training, discipline, and moral support. No child is turned away – if they want to perform, the Plant City Children’s Theater ﬁnds a way to help them realize their dream. Kathy Myers, the theater’s president since 2001, remembers Miss Jackie teaching her dance as a twelve-year-old. Now, daughter Kelsey, a 16-year old PCHS junior and aspiring attorney, has been a studio student since she was three. Kelsey’s proud to a member of the award winning Showcase Team, which features middle and high school students who perform at special events like Super Bowl XXV. Each summer, serious students attend Dance Caravan when a group of career choreographers/dancers teach in Orlando. Up close and personal lessons from highly successful performing artists motivate students to be involved with theater. Mrs. Myers says, “Kelsey is quiet by nature, but she is not at all afraid to perform for audiences. I believe the poise and conﬁdence she learned through classes here is a direct result of the Everidge family’s love and encouragement.”

Performances for the disabled

Parents and grandparents, don’t hesitate to sign your children or grandchildren up for lessons. Students may choose from lyrical ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, cheer dance, power tumbling, gymnastics, stunts, teen drama team, musical theater, acting/ voice, or adult and family clogging. Both Jackie and Sharon are Certified Dance Masters who can still impress the children with their own “smooth moves.” To encourage continuing education, the PC Children’s Theater provides scholarships annually to the troupe’s graduating seniors. The Everidges and their corporate officers emphasize academics to their protégés. Active learning plus creativity produce true art. Grants support the corporation which is sponsored by the Plant City Arts Council, the Arts Council of Hillsborough County, and the Hillsborough County Board of Commissioners. Forty-nine years invested in children’s dance and theater represents the commitment of one family focused on their passion for kids. To inspire, encourage, and touch lives – is there any greater privilege? Visit the studio at 507 N. Wheeler Street or the entertaining website at www.jackiesdance.com. Call 752-1683 or 7521621 for lessons guaranteed to boost confidence and coordination.

Performances at nursing homes, assisted living facilities and All Children’s Hospital

Party for underprivelidged children

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 71

Elite Home Fitness Get in the Best Shape of Your Life Story by Sophia Dedon Photos by Sophia Dedon, Anthony Sassano and Courtesy of Mike Gartz Many Americans have the desire to get in shape, but the idea of joining a gym and disciplining themselves to go frequently prevent them from moving forward. Mike Gartz realizes people need convenience and accountability if they are going to live a healthy lifestyle. After 17 years experience in fitness clubs and personal training, Mike decided to start a different style of personal training, which has proven to be successful for many people in Plant City. Elite Home Fitness is a unique style of personal training where the trainer brings the workout to you at home. The program is completely personalized and designed to fit around your schedule. No matter how early or late, you can arrange to have a fitness program brought to your doorstep. Some appointments are as early as 5 a.m., others as late as 9 p.m. The wonderful thing about having a personal trainer come to your house is that you know you cannot make up excuses for not going to work out. If you have a set appointment for someone to come to your home, you will most likely be ready and accountable. When you decide to use Elite Home Fitness, the first thing you will notice is Mike is not just your personal trainer; he becomes a friend. The added benefits of having a fun and up-beat personality as your trainer make the work out less dreadful. Mike will push you to your limit and help you get the results you are looking for. “I can help people get into the best shape of their lives,” said Mike. However, to truly make a strong difference in your life, the changes cannot be solely physical. Although working Mike Gartz, personal trainer, can come to your home to train you FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 72

out is a necessity, Mike also encourages his clients to keep a nutrition diary. He provides his clients with nutrition counseling so they can eat healthy, feel confident and look great. “I’ve helped people lose 60+ pounds,” said Mike. Another unique service Mike can offer is corporate training. Businesses can bring in Elite Home Fitness during a designated time of the day, and the entire office can train together. Group training at the office is a great way to take a break during the day, get in shape and build teamwork and comradery. Mike can train all ages, shapes and sizes. You will certainly experience results with the one-on-one personal attention he can provide. Couples training is also available where Mike can train both husband and wife at the same time so they can get in shape together. In today’s world, everyone is short on time and heavily burdened with stress. This is a great way to relieve stress, gain energy and lose weight without inconveniencing your schedule. The workout usually lasts between 45-60 minutes. Each workout is designed personally for each client, including cardio, toning, strength training and stretching.

Mike Gartz training Lou McGrath using the speciﬁc work out he designed to ﬁt Lou’s needs

“The reason I do ﬁtness is because it is a gratifying business,” said Gartz, “I get to help change people’s lives for the better.” He has even had a diabetic client that went from taking 25 IU’s to 2. “I get to help people enjoy life more. It makes you feel good when you help others feel good.” If you have been procrastinating on getting in shape, you are really running out of excuses now. It’s time to make a change in your life and have fun doing it! Call Elite Home Fitness today at 813-786-1541. Danny and Rhonda Musgrove are one of the couples that train with Mike Gartz

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 73

Dr. John A. Busciglio

A Trusted Orthodontist for Over 30 Years Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

There comes a time in most people’s lives when they need to look into braces, whether for their children or themselves. The first step in the process is selecting an orthodontist you know you can trust. Dr. John A. Busciglio has been practicing orthodontics in Plant City for 32 years and 34 years in Brandon. Not only does Dr. Busciglio have decades of experience, but his clinical assistants do as well. Several of his assistants have been working with him for over 20 years. The friendly staff is a major reason why people love to come to Dr. Busciglio’s office for their orthodontic needs. At this office, you are not just a patient. The staff makes an effort to build a relationship with each and every person who walks through the door. It makes patients comfort to be able to trust their care to someone who feels like a friend, not simply a person working on their teeth.

Dr. Busciglio has been practicing orthodontics for over 30 years

of seven because many problems can be corrected during the early growth and developmental stages.

Local dentists highly recommend Dr. Busciglio to their patients because of his quality care. When one of Dr. Busciglio’s former patients comes into a dental ofﬁce, the dentist can always tell because their teeth are in top-notch condition.

For instance, some children require treatment in phases. Often times, a Phase I treatment may help resolve functional problems that could shorten or eliminate Phase II. (Phase II usually indicates permanent teeth are in place and braces are needed to straighten all teeth.)

Dr. Busciglio’s passion for orthodontics begins with helping children at an early age. Many parents will not bring their children to an orthodontist until all of their permanent teeth have fully developed because they think braces on children who still have baby teeth are pointless. However, Dr. Busciglio recommends parents bring in their children at the age

Braces can enhance a person’s look, but more importantly they make the teeth more functional. When teeth are straightened, they give strength and support to each other. If one is sticking out further than the other, then it is in harm’s way of becoming fractured or broken.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 74

There are several types of braces available through Dr. Busciglio’s office. The most common form of braces are stainless steel, but depending on the condition of the teeth, patients may also use clear or invisible braces. Invisalign is another type of orthodontics using clear aligners that can be used in certain situations to straighten teeth. At this point in his career, Dr. Busciglio is seeing a second generation of patients come to his office. People who loved him as an orthodontist when they were a child are bringing their children to him. An exciting addition to Dr. Busciglio’s office will be his son, who is coming to practice with his father next summer. Now, not only will there be a second generation of patients, but of doctors as well. If you are looking for a dedicated, experienced orthodontist, call Dr. Busciglio today. His staff will be more than happy to answer any and all of your concerns. Before you know it, you will be part of the family. Dr. Busciglio’s offices are located at 2309 West Reynolds Street in Plant City and 515 Corner Street in Brandon. The number for more information is 813-759-9474 or 813-681-9473.

Some of the friendly staﬀ at the oﬃce are: Sheireen Pananganan, Jessica Paz, Carol Sapp, Dr. Busciglio, Crystal St Martin, Cindy Balbierer, Lora Shipley

Dr. Busciglio has oﬃces in both Plant City and Brandon FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 75

The Good Hands of Allstate

Smart Protection from the Feola Agency Story by Cheryl Johnston Photos by Cheryl Johnston and Sophia Dedon deem appropriate.” Most of the agency’s business is gained through word of mouth, so they’re obviously doing something right.

Ralph Feola is proud to provide insurance services to Plant City residents.

“People come first. That’s our stand.” The staff at Ralph Feola’s Allstate Agency believes the nationwide corporate motto applies especially to their friends and neighbors here in Plant City, where they’ve provided insurance protection for 21 years. This full service agency handles all insurance needs including commercial, life, health, homeowners, flood and mutual fund investments. This convenient and complete combination simplifies insurance shopping, while helping customers save money and make intelligent decisions about necessary coverages. Feola believes customers are the center of his Allstate world. A vital ingredient in the customer/agent relationship is the Customer Protection Review. “Educating our customers about protection needs and rights is our highest priority. We don’t want to over insure or under insure. We make recommendations and allow clients to decide the amount of protection they FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 76

Originally from Boston, Ralph Feola came to Lakeland’s Florida Southern College as a baseball player and stayed. Since earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, he’s enjoyed a fulfilling career in several avenues of the insurance industry. He especially enjoys Plant City, where his agency sponsors youth ball teams and contributes to community events. His 10-year-old son also plays sports and seems entrepreneurially inclined toward the insurance business. “You always need to put something back into the community,” says this quiet, unassuming gentleman. “Our town is endearing because we still have that small town flavor. We don’t yet have the frustrating hustle-bustle of larger cities. Plant City is a comfortable place, not fearful or intimidating. After 21 years, my clients are my friends. It’s a privilege to provide insurance services to this community.” Ralph Feola thinks several strengths set his agency apart. Frequent communication with customers is key. This agency takes the fiduciary relationship between staff and customers seriously, so they continually update client history and life events in anticipation of changing insurance needs. “One size does not fit all,” advises Ralph. “We are legally and morally bound to educate and provide excellent service to our insured. If you’re in it for the long run, you have to do the right thing all the time.” Ralph commonly asks himself and his agents, “What would I expect if I were buying the product?” Another strength is the experienced and highly qualified staff, several of whom are multi-lingual. Language need never be a barrier here. As Personal Financial Representatives, the Feola agents are qualified to offer advice on mutual funds and investments. Continual training and certifications add acronyms

like LUTCF, CLU and ChFC after their names on business cards. Customers can trust that serious consideration is given to individual situations before agents present recommendations for necessary protection and their costs. Since almost $4,000,000 in claims is paid out from this Allstate Agency annually, amount of coverage is an important issue. Even before Hurricane Andrew, for every dollar received in premiums by insurers, $1.50 was paid out. This is especially true of older homes where plumbing pipes can burst, causing serious water damage. Allstate, the national corporation, is concerned about potential mega catastrophes and believes America deserves to be better protected. The company is supporting a coalition called Protecting America (visit their website at www.protectingamerica.org), which is working to raise awareness, educate the public and policymakers and offer solutions that will better protect America from major catastrophes in a sensible, cost effective fashion. The Feola Allstate Agency cares about Plant City’s citizens. For great service, contact Ralph or his agents at 752-2556 or visit 1003 South Collins to discuss your insurance needs. You’ll be impressed to discover people are the best reason “you’re in good hands with Allstate.”

(L to R) Ralph Fiola, Gayna Blochwitz, Paul Chapman, Lucrecia Quintanilla, Dwane Swindal, Veronica Jaun and L.J. Cathelineau

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 77

Starr Design, Incorporated

Plant City Natives’ Business is About Promoting You Story & Photos by Kristen Toney George Pulliam, CEO and Registered Agent, works a bit with the vinyl lettering machine

This past July, a dream came true for Aaron Starr. Years ago, when he was right out of high school, he had worked for a lady named Claudia Davis, who owned a screen-printing shop here in town. When Davis was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis a few years later, she offered her business to Starr.

“I was so young at the time, there was no way I could really take it over,” Starr commented. “So she had to shut the entire thing down.” However, the idea of running a screen printing company has always been in the back of Starr’s mind. He stayed in the ﬁeld over the years, enjoying the satisfaction the work brought him.

Left to right: Aaron Starr, George Pulliam and Jesse Starr

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City, Lakeland, Brandon and Tampa. A Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Member, the company hopes to be involved with the Car Show and Bike Show in the future. They are also a team sponsor for the Lakeland Police Athletic League, which benefits underprivileged children. “Plant City has been incredibly receptive to our business,” commented Aaron. “There’s a lot of screen printing in Plant City run by deeply-rooted families, Jesse Starr, Co-Owner, Vice President and Graphic Artist and they’ve all been really cool, we’ll probably even do some “We finally decided to quit talking about it and actually do it,” contract work with them. There’s so much of the business to go said Starr, referring to his brother, Jesse, and their friend, George around.” Pulliam. “It was almost like an overnight process for us. The whole thing took, from conception, about five months, and now For your next design project, call Starr Design at (813) 719here we are.” 2050, or visit them at www.starrdesignonline.com. All three owners are Plant City born and raised, and now run one of the only businesses that screen prints in-house. This convenient feature allows any size order to be completed with a quick turnaround. Jesse is the co-owner, vice president and graphic artist. One of the best in the business, he is able to do all of the art and graphic design in-house as well. Both of the Starr brothers have been involved in the art business all of their lives, which gives each of their projects the benefit of not only high quality work, but also experience to back it up. “Jesse and I are both artists,” said Aaron. “It’s something we’ve always been interested in and it’s a way for us to use our skills. It’s something fun, pretty simple if you know how to do it.” George Pulliam is the company’s CEO and Registered Agent. With five years of overseas duty in the army as a paratrooper, including a year spent in Iraq, he’s happy to be back home in Plant City and keeping all operations up and running at Starr Design.

Aaron Starr prepares a t-shirt for screen-printing

Aaron Starr moves through the process of screen-printing

Aaron Starr demonstrates how simple the process of screen-printing really is

The ﬁnished template and product of a screen-printed t-shirt

Although Starr Design offers services such as in-house graphic design, embroidery, business cards, ﬂyers, postcards, vinyl work (such as lettering on vehicles), decals and signs, their best-selling product is their screen-printed t-shirts. They are running a special now through November on their t-shirts: $3.99 each for one color on a white shirt with an order of twelve or more. Even though they are still a fairly new business, Starr Design has worked on projects for schools, churches, lawn care maintenance, construction companies and personal trainers in Plant

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 79

Health Solutions Chiropractic & Wellness Center

Creating New Health Possibilities Naturally Story by Kristen Toney Photos by Kristen Toney and Courtesy of Health Solutions Chiropractic & Wellness Center Dr. John Souther spent most of his early childhood battling ear infections. After several antibiotic treatments and having tubes placed in his ears, the painful ear infections continued to return. His parents decided to try a more natural approach for which Dr. Souther says he is now very thankful.

Dr. John Souther and patient Delores Stropagel

“With chiropractic care, removing dairy and limiting sugar in my diet, I’ve had no experiences with ear infections since then,” Dr. Souther remembers. “This is how I was ﬁrst introduced to Chiropractic and natural health care. It changed my life and inspired me to help others seeking solutions to their health problems.”

Dr. Dunn with wife Stacey and children.

Kelly Souther, Dr. John Souther, Samantha Elliot and Angela Mohler. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 80

Dr. Souther is now entering his fifth year in practice, with an office in South Lakeland and an office here in Plant City, in The Oaks Shopping Plaza at the corner of Alexander and Mendoza, just behind the Shell station. “I purchased this practice in January from Dr. Parson,” Dr. Souther said of his Plant City office. “It’s been a privilege to continue the great care Dr. Parson provided our patients, and we have also expanded our services to include nutritional therapies, supplements, and N.A.E.T. allergy elimination therapy.” Health Solutions Chiropractic and Wellness Center provides care for a wide range of patients with a variety of different health, spinal and joint problems. Dr. Souther even has a patient who travels from Haiti to see him in order to keep his low back from severely restricting his missionary work. “Chiropractic care is for everyone,” Dr. Souther enthused. “We provide Chiropractic and nutritional health care to patients of all ages, including infants. We simply help people who are seeking an answer to their health problems by offering a natural and safe approach that gets results and helps people achieve their health goals.” Dr. Souther also believes the body has the ability to regenerate and heal itself of disease if given the proper care and attention. Dr. Souther says, “It is better to first provide the body with the tools necessary for healing to occur, whether it’s with Chiropractic care or natural therapies; that is what I believe health care should be about.” In addition to providing Chiropractic care, Health Solutions provides individualized nutritional programs and supplements, allergy treatments using the N.A.E.T. method, custom fitted foot orthotics and Graston Therapy for soft tissue injuries and pain. Because Dr. Souther believes each person is unique and responds differently to varying treatment methods, each patient is carefully evaluated to determine which techniques will provide the best results. Dr. Souther says, “We use many methods of analysis and treatments at our office to insure our patients achieve the results they came here for. We apply this concept of meeting the individual needs of each patient by using different methods of adjusting the spine, including the use of a light force instrument that especially works well with children, those with weak

bones and people who prefer a more gentle way of adjusting the spine. Our nutritional approach is much the same way; we don’t believe in the idea of making every patient fit into a generic nutritional program. We instead make recommendations according to the nutritional needs of each individual.” Dr. Souther and his staff believe proper nutritional supplementation is vital for health. Dr. John Souther does a chiropractic adjustment on one of his patients. “We’re not getting the proper nutrition from our food and that is one reason why we see more and more chronic disease, even in our young kids, and it’s not caused from a shortage of medications.” Dr. Souther believes as a doctor it is important to teach and provide his patients with information to help people make more informed decisions regarding their health and the health of their families. Dr. Souther says, “Health is the most valuable possession we have, but unfortunately it is often taken for granted until we feel it slip away. That’s when people really start to appreciate the health they once had. You get people feeling healthy again, and it’s a life-changing thing. That’s why we enjoy what we do because we get to experience that joy with our patients.” Health Solutions enjoys staying involved with the community through charitable events such as the recent Plant City Safety Day benefiting Operation Compassion. On September 18, they will celebrate Patient Appreciation Day, and provide each of their patients with a free adjustment. Also, on Saturday, October 21 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. they will hold their Open House event where everyone is invited to join in on the food and fun. This event is also to benefit the Operation Compassion Food Bank, and canned food donations will be collected. Health Solutions will offer free new patient start up examinations, as well as x-rays for anyone donating canned food items that day. Dr. Souther says, “It’s going to be a great benefit for the food bank and a great opportunity for us to meet and help people in our community. Our schedule for new patients that day is limited and will fill up fast, so we are encouraging people to schedule now.” Contact Health Solutions Chiropractic and Wellness Center at (813) 717-7553 today to schedule your appointment or to request more information on their services. If you would like to receive the Health Solutions newsletter or have a question for Dr. Souther, you may e-mail him at drsouther@verizon.net.

Dr. John Souther uses a technique called Graston on one of his patients. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 81

Mia’s Place

The Perfect Location for Your Special Event Story & Photos by Kristen Toney

Mia’s Place is located at 2201 Thonotosassa Road

In 1993, Mia Roach was looking for a new start in life. Recently widowed and with a small daughter at home, she needed more than an ordinary career. She needed something that would ﬁt her family’s special circumstances. “The opportunity to take over a handful of local crafters of a small gift shop fell in my lap as if Divinely sent,” said Roach. “Knowing nothing about retail, it seemed a chance to learn a new trade without leaving my daughter in the care of someone else. I loved it right from the start! Being a small handmade retail shop for a little over four years gave me the opportunity to learn the world of retail and prepared me for more.” By that time, the Shore house at 2201 Thonotosassa Road

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was on the market. “I had to be interviewed in order to purchase it,” Roach remembered. “I understand why; I’m the first owner outside the original family to own it. I purchased it from Mr. Shore’s daughter, Blanche Oswald, a lovely lady I’ve grown very fond of! I felt very honored that I could utilize this building in a way that would honor not only the family and its history but the building itself.” After spending five months renovating and restoring the building, Annie Marie & Company Gift & Antique Shop was born, and became known as one of the best places in Plant City to purchase a unique gift or lovely antique. Customers came in to enjoy the atmosphere, sample the Fireside Coffee flavor of the day and pick out a treasure for themselves or someone else. For five years the gift shop blossomed, thanks

to the devoted staff and loyal customers who were like family to Annie Marie’s. In 2002, the entire building underwent a change. “Multiple reasons within our business family led us to the decision to close the Gift and Antique Shop,” Roach commented. “I just prayed a lot about it because I’m very attached to this building. Hospitality has always been my background; it just seemed very natural to transform this building into an event facility. So many times we had customers who would come here just because of the peaceful feeling they’d find in this beautiful old building, and that has remained, even more so now, I think! It feels like home away from home. My guests experience something here they can’t find anywhere else.” Mia’s Place has played host to bridal showers, baby showers, weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners and family gatherings, among a host of other events. “It’s a homey atmosphere that’s not at all generic,” said Roach. If you have never been to Mia’s Place for an event, or had one of your own there, you are definitely missing out on a treasure in Plant City! When your event is held at Mia’s place, your only duty is to arrive and mingle with your guests. Mia herself will have already given you a tour of the building beforehand, and together you will have decided how you would like to use the space, the setup for the amount of guests you have and the menu, either finger food or a full-course meal, designed just for you and your guests. “People tend to find out very quickly how much time, effort and money they save by letting me do the work,” Roach

Mia (right) with Sharon, her ﬁrst paying customer, at an event at Mia’s Place.

laughed. “They can come and feel like a guest at their own event and not even have to lift a finger. That’s the nice part about having me cater your event and using this facility.” Mia’s Place is perfect for whatever event you have listed next on your calendar. With the unique feel of an original family home throughout, it is also very conveniently located right off I-4 for your guests coming from Brandon or Lakeland, or further out. “Once you’ve attended an event here, the experience will stay with you; you’ll remember Mia’s Place,” says Roach. Also this fall, Mia’s Place will be hosting the well-known Fall Festival, one day only, Saturday, October 21, from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Call Mia for more information on participating as a vendor. Early reservations are suggested due to limited space. Handmade crafts, floral arrangements, gifts, antiques and so much more will be on display for sale and for your gift giving needs. Be sure to put this date on your calendar so you don’t miss out on the fun! As always, there will be plenty of parking as well as parking attendants to assist you. With an incredible reputation for hospitality, Roach is ready to make your next event a breeze. “You will not walk away unhappy when you have an event here,” she firmly stated. “That is my main goal, whether I cater your event or just rent the facility to you. I’m going to make sure you are 150% satisfied with your experience, because that’s what I do. Making the customer happy makes me happy!” Don’t hesitate to call Mia’s Place at (813) 759-6473 for your next event. It’s sure to be a wonderfully unique experience you will never forget.

Perfect for wedding receptions

Mia Roach is ready to open Mia’s Place for your special event! FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 83

Brown’s Jeweler’s A Jeweler You Can Trust Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

When it comes to the jewelry industry, Brown’s Jewelers has everything you are looking for. Not only do they carry most types of jewelry, but their service is incomparable. Since 1986, Brown’s Jewelers has been exceeding the expectations of Plant City residents. Rusty Brown, President, is also a goldsmith. Customers can bring in broken or damaged jewelry and Rusty is able to do custom repair work. When the piece has been ﬁxed, you cannot even tell it was ever faulted. Because custom goldsmith work requires the use of a hot torch, it heats the jewelry up to very high temperatures. This is necessary for gold, silver and brass metals, but it can sometimes be harmful on certain stones.

The staﬀ is both knowledgeable and friendly. (L to R) Rusty Brown, Brandie Cobb, Krystal Smith and Cassidy Ocain

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Therefore, Brown’s invested in a brand new state-of-the-art laser jewelry repair machine that is able to do work that may require more intricate detail or may not be compatible with high temperatures. Brandie Cobb, machine operator, is able to use the machine to magnify the jewelry to focus on very small areas. She then applies the laser to the spe-

Because Brown’s first priority is caring for people, they also offer complementary services. They will clean your jewelry for you or tighten your stone if necessary. The cleaning equipment that Brown’s uses first cleans the jewelry in a solution while the water has vibrations sent through it that can knock off dirt, oils or anything else that has accumulated. The jewelry is then placed under a steamer that sends a strong force of hot steam down onto the jewelry to complete the cleaning process. Once it is finished, your jewelry will look brand new again. Although Brown’s offers a wide selection of jewelry, if there is something specific Brandie Cobb used the new laser machine to repair jewelry The equipment they use to clean the jewelry can get off all oils and dirts, leaving jewelry looking brand new again you are looking for, they can also place a special order for you. Depending on cific spot and can form the jewelry into the necessary what you desire, some of the jewelry is even custom design. This process avoids the entire piece getting made by Rusty. Strawberry jewelry tends to be in high hot; it affects only specified areas. Therefore, precious demand in Plant City, which is why Brown’s carries stones like emeralds that cannot come in contact with several options, some of which Rusty made himself. such high temperatures avoid the risk of becoming damaged. If you’re in the market for new jewelry and want to go to someone you know you can trust, then Brown’s The repairs done at Brown’s are not limited to jewelry. is the jeweler for you. The employees will help you They also repair watches, eyeglasses and other similar with all of your concerns so that you will find exactly items. Almost all of the work is done in-house, but what you are looking for. Brown’s Jewelers is located when necessary can be outsourced as well. at 1705 Jim Redman Pkwy in the Southern Hospitality plaza. For more information, call the friendly staff at Rusty, who was born and raised in Plant City, still 813-754-2360. resides here today. Having grown up in a small town atmosphere, he knows the importance of treating people right and passes these qualities onto his employees. Brown’s has kept the friendly, personal touch that so many other jewelers have forgotten. They work to build relationships with their customers. It’s not just about business; it’s about the person. “Honesty and integrity are very important to me,” said Rusty. You can be assured that the jewelry you are being sold is good quality and that you will be paying a fair price. Rusty hand selects all the jewelry that is sold at Brown’s, checking it intricately for flaws. The larger chain stores simply sell what has been shipped to them. Rusty Brown, owner and President of Brown’s Jewelers, is also a goldsmith. He can repair jewelry and also custom make pieces

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 85

Plant It Earth

Successful Lawn Care Professional Brings His Business Back Home Story and Photos by Daniel Sperry

“I love Plant City,” says Brett Melanson, owner of Plant It Earth. “I’m so happy to be back home!” It has been quite a journey for Melanson. Over a period of eight years, he has developed two successful lawn care companies in Miami and Orlando, renowned for their exceptional customer service and high quality products. No one can miss the Plant It Earth trucks as they drive around Plant City. Decorated with the company logo, aliens and funny slogans, they command attention everywhere they go. “A lot of people don’t realize that 1520% of their property’s value is in the exterior of their home,” says Melanson. “Creating a beautiful yard is so important to curb appeal and the cost is usually less per month than your cable bill.” Melanson is a ﬁrm believer in providing the best for his customers. Often, Plant It Earth uses so much product and fertilizer in the beginning of a customer’s service, that they make no money at all. “It’s about developing a life-long customer,” he says. “You have to make an Brett Melanson, owner of Plant It Earth sets the highest standards for his technicians and his customers.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 86

The type of product is also very important to Plant It Earth. They focus on the proper timing of applying fertilizers and products to a yard, and only use products that have shown a history of providing superior results. Providing a strong application in the beginning can prompt quick new green growth which pleases customers’ and draws the neighbors’ attention. When a customer subscribes to Plant It Earth’s services, they see results immediately.

One of the Plant It Earth Technicians rides a top-of-the-line mower to groom a yard.

investment in your customers, and they will stay with you forever. They know you are looking out for them and are going to take care of their needs.” Plant It Earth carries this business philosophy beyond their customers to their employees and the community. Upon opening their new offices in Plant City, Melanson committed to providing free lawn care service to the first fifteen Plant City police officers who came by his shop.

Melanson says that each lawn is different and needs to be treated with a unique combination of products to help balance the soil’s pH. The Plant It Earth trucks have compartmentalized containers for storing product so that the lawn care professional can tailor the concentrations to meet each customer’s speciﬁc needs. “I’ve been gone for a long time,” says Melanson, a Plant City native. “It feels so good to be able to come back here and be a part of my home community.” Plant It Earth is located at 1704 James Redman Hwy, Plant City, FL 33563. You may reach them by calling 813-707-1700.

“The people that serve our community are unsung heroes,” says Melanson. The Police Department is one key to why Plant City is such a great town.” Melanson is looking forward to giving back to the community in other ways, too. “I don’t believe in running a business just to make money,” he says. “I think that I have a responsibility to help make my town a better place, if I can.” Melanson says that most lawn care companies pay their employees on a commission basis. Each lawn care professional gets paid a certain amount for each job they complete. But Plant It Earth believes that that model encourages employees to cut corners and try to ﬁnish the job faster, reducing quality.

The brightly decorated Plant It Earth trucks are impossible to miss on the roads in Plant City.

“Our lawn care professionals are paid hourly,” he says. “We don’t give them a bonus for working fast. We want the job done right every time.” That is also why he has cameras installed on all his company vehicles. It helps keep the lawn care professionals accountable for their work, and it helps them to be able to show a concerned customer what was accomplished while they were at the customer’s home. “Especially when we provide service while they are at work,” Melanson says.

Plant It Earth is a full service lawn care company and specializes in beautifying lawns, as well as planting and mulching ﬂower beds.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 87

Cheryl Turner Photography

Capturing Those Special Moments Story by Sophia Dedon Photos by Cheryl Turner

Capturing the special moments of childhood is very important. No one understands this more than Cheryl Turner. She has been specializing in children and family portraiture for over a decade. After years of studying under other photographers, she has developed a style of her own. Cheryl combines her love of children with her passion for photography, and she truly loves her work. Two years ago, Cheryl started her own business here in Plant City. Her photography is not what you’re used to where the child is placed on a stool and handed a prop. Cheryl spends time getting to know her subjects so she can capture their true personality. Her Contemporary Fine Art Photography is more enjoyable because the images evoke emotion. Being a mom herself, Cheryl understands how special the bond between a parent and child is. “When you invite a photographer in, to capture that moment, then it will last a lifetime,” she says. Each relationship within a family is special in it’s own way. Cheryl has a unique and beautiful way of portraying this. Bringing people into her home allows for a more intimate and comfortable environment. Cheryl is very friendly and wants more than anything to create a relaxed and fun atmosphere for the parents and the children. Cheryl Turner has been specializing in portraits for over a decade.

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Cheryl photographs children of all ages, from 2-weekold newborns through teenagers. She does prenatal portraits before the baby is even born. Families, couples, and adults are all welcome to enjoy these unique portraits. Cheryl only schedules one appointment a day so that no one feels rushed. The sessions usually last for about one hour, but are certainly not limited to that time frame. She takes her time, playing on the ﬂoor with the child until they feel comfortable. Sometimes it may take 30 to 45 minutes before a child starts warming up to her, others come in ready to go. Each photo shoot is as unique as the child being photographed. The focus is on quality, not quantity. Cheryl wants the photographs to speak for themselves. “They should say ‘this is the

moment’ not ‘these are the faces,’” she says. Twice a year Cheryl spends two days doing a photo shoot at the Berry Patch Kids children’s clothing boutique, located on South Collins Street in downtown Plant City. The next shoot is scheduled for October 13 and 14. For this promotion she is offering 50% off the sitting fee and free Christmas cards with your purchase. These sessions are booked by appointment only. If you would like to schedule with her, please call Cheryl today. If you would like to see more of Cheryl’s portraits, you may visit her website at www.ctportraits.com. To schedule your appointment to have portraits taken, call Cheryl Turner Portraits at 813-766-5391.

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Women’s First Center

Serving the Needs of Women in Plant City Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

The birth of a child is one of the most joyous times in life. Having the first annual gynecological examination is another story. Selecting the Obstetrician and Gynecologist that suits you best can be a difficult task with the many options available in the Tampa Bay area. Physicians’ Board Certification and its maintenance, availability, dedication, communication skills, patience and compassion, as well as sensitivity to the patient’s vulnerability in times of special need should all play a part in one’s selection process of an Ob/Gyn. Finding physicians with the above qualities who strive to provide adequate time for each of their patients is a challenge in today’s complex volume-driven health care system.

The staﬀ at Women’s First Center are always friendly and helpful

Drs. Verdeja and Lamoutte have been in practice together in Plant City since 2000

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Women’s First Center, located in the Walden Lake Medical Arts Center in Plant City, is the Obstetrics and Gynecology practice of Dr. Ana M. Verdeja and Dr. Carlos Lamoutte. Board Certiﬁed by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Drs. Verdeja and Lamoutte have been in practice together in Plant City since 2000. From day one, this husband and wife team has felt warmly welcomed in our town. Most of their patients are referred by other patients and to both Drs. Verdeja and Lamoutte, this is the nicest compliment of all.

Robyne Browning and Inmelda Negrete

Sandra Soto

In order to meet the needs of a rapidly growing community and practice while maintaining quality and quantity of care, Drs.Verdeja and Lamoutte have recently recruited Kristi Shafer, Advanced Certiﬁed Nurse Practitioner. Kristi has a strong background in women’s health in general. She will mainly offer expertise in well women’s annual examinations, adolescent gynecology, HPV vaccine and urinary incontinence. Dr. Verdeja has been practicing Ob/Gyn since 1992 and has a special interest in pregnancy care, infertility, menopause and minimally invasive surgery for conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding and endometriosis. She attended Ob/Gyn residency at the Louisiana State University in New Orleans. While in residency at LSU, she met Dr. Lamoutte in 1993. They have been married for the last 10 years. Dr. Lamoutte has been practicing Ob/Gyn since 1995 and has a special interest in pregnancy care, infertility, abnormal Pap

Ana M. Verdeja, M.D. Obstetrician & Gynecologist

Cristina Cantu and Erica Barrera

smears and treatment of cervical dysplasia (a form of cervical pre-cancer), as well as minimally invasive gynecological surgery and non-surgical treatment of urinary incontinence with biofeedback. He attended residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. The team of physicians, nurse practioner, medical assistants and receptionists at Women First Center strives to provide state of the art women’s health technology and knowledge with old-fashioned care, which is not limited to the treatment of obstetrical and gynecological diseases but embraces the physical, psychological, social and spiritual dimensions of women. Women First Center respects the sacredness of every human life from the moment of conception. For appointments, call (813) 719-3380. For more information, visit the ofﬁce at 1601 West Timberlane Drive, Suite 600 or visit www.ACOG.com

Carlos Lamoutte, M.D. Obstetrician & Gynecologist

Kristi Shafer, ACNP

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 91

Allcare Rehabilitation Center Happiest When Helping You

Story by Kristen Toney Photos by Kristen Toney & Courtesy of Allcare Rehabilitation Center

When someone is asked about his or her physical therapy experience, a positive response is not normally expected. “I enjoyed my time in physical therapy,” “I received such tender loving care,” “They have given me back my conﬁdence” or “They made physical therapy fun!” are statements from actual patients of Allcare Rehabilitation Center. Allcare believes people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. “That’s something we put

a lot of emphasis on; taking care of folks and making sure they get the care they need when they need it,” said Dan Manfre, president of Allcare. “When they leave here, we want them to feel like this wasn’t what they expected; we want to have exceeded their expectations.” Allcare Rehabilitation was started by Dan Manfre, PT in 1990 and has been on the cutting edge of therapeutic technology ever since. Originally located in the SOHO Plaza on

The staﬀ of Allcare Rehabilitation is here to serve you!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 92

lifestyle. From the moment each patient arrives at the center to the time they leave, their treatment programs are designed to help them recover as quickly as possible. The physical therapy experts listen to each patient’s speciﬁc needs and keep patient and their physician alike abreast of their progress. Allcare is the only facility anywhere in the area with a temperature controlled therapeutic pool, and the center also utilizes only state of the art equipment. Still, the biggest asset the center claims is its staff, which is not only highly trained but also extremely compassionate. Extensive hands-on physical therapy is a trademark of Allcare.

Also a teaching facility, Allcare provides physical therapy students from several Florida universities with opportunities for clinical internships and training. The center publishes two monthly newsletters: one for its patients and another for medical professionals. If you are a medical professional interested in the physical therapy programs offered at Allcare and would like to receive their newsletter, give the staff a call at (813) 754-1062 and they will be happy to add you to their mailing list. Allcare is constantly growing, and the facility is always looking for physical therapists that enjoy helping people, and are happiest when doing so.

This therapist explains to her patient how the treatment will help him to improve his range of mobility.

Jim Redman Parkway, the new location on Reynolds Street in Plant City is more convenient and better suited for patients. The building is easily accessible and very private because of the way it was designed and constructed. Since moving to their new location in January of this year, the growth of the company and the level of patient care have only improved.

For more information on all Allcare’s physical therapy programs, please call (813) 754-1062.

Candidates for physical therapy include anyone who is physically challenged for any reason. Whether someone has a painful arthritic condition, neurological condition, sprain, strain, sports related injury, fracture, spinal injury, bone or joint injury, Allcare is here for you. Many patients are also referred to the center following joint replacement surgery, and for the treatment of balance disorders, which put individuals at risk of falling. Each therapist develops an individually tailored program to meet each patient’s speciﬁc needs and goals. They begin with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s current condition, past medical history and physiological state, including exercise capacities, cardiovascular risk factors and a functional analysis of appropriate physical requirements for one’s

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 93

Walden Lake Golf and Country Club

New Exciting Changes to Anticipate Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon It’s common knowledge to most residents of Plant City that Walden Lake is known for its extensive golf courses and beautiful golf and country club. However, few realize and take advantage of the many features the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club can offer. In recent years, the club was not kept up to par by previous owners, but that is why four parties of Plant City residents stepped up to the plate and purchased the facility. The new owners include Earl Brantley, Tim Bussell, Steve Mercer, Dale Missildine, Doug and Tabia Cowell, and Larry Williams. With their help, the club will continue to offer the services it did before with many others included. They have already begun to make improvements all around.

The golf courses themselves are now the only courses in town since the closing of the Plant City Golf Course. They are both championship layouts. There are only a handful of championship courses in this part of Florida, and Plant City is fortunate enough to have two. The two 18-hole courses are open not only to residents of Walden Lake, but to the public too. Bogey’s Restaurant is located at the facility as well. This restaurant previously served lunch only and it was primarily for the golfers. However, the new ownership not only brought in a new executive chef, but expanded the restaurant hours to be open for all three meals. Executive Chef Sven Nelson has

The new owners include: (Back Row) Tim Bussell, Steve Mercer, Larry Williams, Earl Brantley (Front Row) Dale Missildine, and Doug & Tabia Cowell

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 94

shape by working out at a gym. For tennis lovers, the 6 lit tennis courts provide entertainment both by day and by night. Club membership are available to the public, not solely Walden Lake residents. A membership allows you to take advantage of all the facilities at the club. The general public only has access to the golﬁng.

Walden Lake Golf and Country Club is going through several improvements with the change in ownership

The club is in the process of expanding the pro shop. It will become a full service golf shop with name brand equipment offered at competitive prices. This allows for people in Plant City to purchase quality gear without having to travel far. The shop will also have a service/repair center for regripping, reshafting, ﬁtting, or any other repairs your equipment may need. For special events, the club has several rooms that can be rented. Catering is also available through the club. They hold many banquets, wedding receptions, Christmas parties, golf tournaments and other events. Billy Kagel, sales manager for special events, is very helpful is assisting customers in ﬁnding exactly what they are looking for. With the many improvements taking place at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club, you should swing by and check it out for yourself. The club is located at 2001 Clubhouse Drive in Walden Lake. The phone number for more information is 813-752-1171.

Walden Lake Golf Course includes two 18-hole courses

already begun to add new items to the menu and improve the restaurant. The club’s goal is that residents of Plant City, especially Walden Lake, will take advantage of this conveniently located family restaurant. It is open for the public to dine, not solely golfers and club members. Steve Mercer, facility manager and part owner, was previously the manager of the Plant City Golf Course. He has taken the best of the staff at that facility and combined it with the best of the staff that was already at the club to create an outstanding combination of friendly people to run the facility. “Having been a golfer here myself before coming to work here, I am better aware of the aspects that need improvement,” said Mercer. He has extensive experience in running large facilities. Previously, he worked at a resort in the Bahamas where he hired two staff members from Disney. He learned from them how to establish the aspects of look and feel to provide quality service. Walden Lake Golf and Country Club has more features to offer than just the restaurant and golﬁng. The Olympic-size pool at the club is a favorite amongst both competitive swimmers that use the facilities and those coming for leisure purposes. There is a ﬁtness center available for those who like to stay in

Bill Kagel, Sales Manager for Special Events

Executive Chef Sven Nelson

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 95

BeComing Mobile Day Spa You Deserve to be Pampered Story & Photos by Sophia Dedon

Every girl wants to feel like a princess, no matter how old she is. There’s just something refreshing about being pampered and spoiled. Day spas are usually the experts in princess-treatment; from massages to facials and manicures to pedicures. A new company is going a step beyond everyone else…the spa comes to you! BeComing Mobile Day Spa is a brand new day spa that brings a 31-foot Winnebago to your location, so you don’t even have to get in the car and drive.

giving personal attention. Ruth Holmgren, President and CEO of BeComing Mobile Day Spa, worked in a high-end boutique in Canada where she did personal shopping and image consulting for various individuals. She has taken her expertise in pampering and customer service to the spa industry. “Customer service does not begin until I exceed my client’s expectations,” said Ruth.

There are several different reasons to take advantage of BeComing Mobile Day Spa. Any special event is worthy of a pampering experience; BeComing can come to your wedding, bridal shower, baby shower, party, prom or beauty pageant. BeComing is perfect for little girls’ birthdays. Turn the party into a princess affair by having BeComing bring their mobile home to your party and transform the little girls into royalty. All services are safe and age appropriate. They will even complete the experience by bringing crowns, wands and skirts. With a touch of the magic wand the girls will be transported into a fairy tale land. Businesses can even take advantage of BeComing by having them come to the ofﬁce, park in the parking lot and treat the employees to something special. A lot of businesses use this option when they want to give their employees a reward because it is luxurious, yet doesn’t require a large portion of the workday. Just walk outside the ofﬁce, step into the Winnebago, select your treatment, then go back to work feeling refreshed and brand new. Other businesses use it as a “thank you” to their customers and clients. The experience is more than just receiving the service. They make each customer feel special by serving champagne and Noriko Abernathy and Ruth Holmgren are the two full time aestheticians

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 96

BeComing can also attend any large function. If your business is having a retreat, extended training sessions or a conference, BeComing can bring their mobile spa, park it just outside the meeting area or hotel and provide something extra special for your employees.

Now is the perfect time to book BeComing to come to your Christmas event or host your Christmas party. Visit the website at www.becomingmobiledayspa.com. Call 813-909-5910 to make your reservations and they will BeComing to you!

If you want to use BeComing Mobile for a special party or event, they can cater to any of your needs. You dream it; they can provide it. They can handle catering for you, as well as arrangements for a guest. Some ideas are to bring in storytellers, Mendi artists (Indian painting), temporary Henna tattoo artists, image consultants, palm readers or anything else you may have in mind. Ruth also has experience working in a medical spa in Canada. Her experience there combined with the services she learned at the boutique is the reason she knows how to provide such a relaxing, luxurious pampering session for her customers. The other full time aesthetician, Noriko Abernathy, received her training in Thailand and then went on to work in Japan. Because they both received their training internationally, they then went to school again to receive a license to practice in Florida. Ruth also has a network of other licensed aestheticians and massage therapists who are available for larger functions.

Pedicures are always a relaxing experience

Facials are popular amongst men too

The mobile home has specially been designed as a spa that oﬀers several diﬀerent services

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 97

The UPS Store

Meeting the Needs of Individuals and Small Businesses Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon customers; the type of person who becomes a friend almost instantaneously. As far as other services available at the store, Debbie put it simply when she said, “We can do just about anything, and if we can’t, we will help you ﬁgure out how to get it done.” Regarding the shipping and packaging options, if you have an odd item you need to ship, they can custom make boxes. They can ship next day, COD, international or most any other option you are looking for. Many people also call the UPS Store when selling eBay products to get an estimate of what the shipping will cost. An important thing to note is the store is the last pick-up for UPS in the area if you are pushing the deadline to drop off your package.

Dorothy Rogers is known for her friendly service

Most likely you have driven past the UPS Store in the Kash N Karry plaza at Alexander and Jim Redman, but did you realize a lot more goes on there than simply packing and shipping? Although packages are what the UPS company handles as a whole, the UPS Store provides multiple services to meet the needs of individuals and small businesses. Debbie and Bradley Siebenthal have been the owners of the store for two years and have worked hard to make the UPS Store friendly and community-oriented. Dorothy Rogers has been working at this location for six years, even when it was a Mail Boxes Etc. She is a favorite amongst the regular

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 98

The UPS Store is designed to help small businesses. With their equipment, they can make small or bulk copies, bind and laminate. In addition, they offer engraving services and bulk shredding of documents. You can also go to the UPS Store if you need a notary or a passport photo, and they do print items such as business cards or invitations. Many people come to them to have their Power Point presentations printed and bound. Using their digital equipment, The UPS Store can help you with all of your shipping and packaging needs

season they had pilgrims come in and took pictures of children with the pilgrims if they brought a canned good for the local food bank. A few weeks later, they offered a free clinic to teach people the most efﬁcient way to package their Christmas gifts.

The UPS Store also oﬀers a mailbox service with several beneﬁts for customers

The UPS Store is unique because of the effort they make to build a relationship with their customers. They always go the extra mile. “We take pride in what we do,” said Dorothy.

Copying services are available on small and large scales

the UPS Store can do graphic printing, as well as document archiving on disk, which is right now especially important to have done in light of potential hurricanes.

The store hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, stop by the store today at 117 West Alexander Street or call 813754-5533.

Another facet of the store many do not realize is available is a mailbox service. You can have a mailbox at the UPS Store, similar to a P.O. Box, but better. You are able to use a street address and can receive packages from any shipper, not just UPS. Some people use these boxes for security reasons, mail forwarding or convenience. The UPS Store is designed to offer convenience for all. Each customer is greeted as soon as they enter the store. The employees work diligently to provide fast and friendly service, making wait time as short as possible. Many customers don’t even have to spend longer than 10 seconds in the store, even if there is a line. Customers can set up a house account and receive a monthly invoice for their shipping costs. By setting up an account, all the customer has to do is walk in, set the package on the counter and leave. The employees know what to do from there. Community is also a very important aspect to the Siebenthals. They have done projects such as canned food drives, school art projects and military packages. Last holiday

Debbie Siebenthal, owner, can always be found greeting everyone with a smile

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 99

FastFrame

Your Art Deserves Their Expertise Story & Photos by Kristen Toney Each of us has a unique style in our home we claim as our own. An incredibly important piece of that style is the items we hang on our walls. “Having decoration in your house or office, wherever you spend time, is really important,” said Ellen Hunter Simms, owner of the local FastFrame in downtown Lakeland. Simms and her husband, Michael, came to Lakeland in 2003 from South Florida. “I was corporate controller for a large agribusiness firm in South Florida and decided to retire and do something I really enjoyed,” Simms commented. “My mom was an artist and had a frame shop when I was really little, and I always loved the arts and working with people. The accountant in me crunched some numbers and found this opportunity. By January of 2005, I had fallen in love with downtown, this location was available and the rest is history!” While each store is individually owned and operated, FastFrame is a franchise with more than 300 stores in the United States alone, along with many locations in foreign countries. Their Lakeland location is situated right in the middle of downtown at 117 South Kentucky Avenue. FastFrame isn’t all about framing. They provide a photo restoration service, a photo transformation service (where your photo is taken and transformed into art) and they also have a new program called Picture it First. “The Picture it First setup helps to visualize what a piece is going to look like during the design process,” explained Simms. A suspended camera takes a shot of your artwork, chosen corner of matting and molding and creates an image on the computer screen, allowing the client to see what their piece will look like at the end of the process. “That’s a huge feature for people who have trouble visualizing,” said Simms. With a quick turnaround and thousands of moldings and mats to choose from, Simms is able to keep all of her customers satisfied in all areas. “I do all work here, I don’t farm it out,” she commented. “Since I am the owner, every piece is very personal to me. I don’t care how big or small your piece is. If a piece means something to you, it’s going to mean something to me. I’m going give it my full attention. I want every one of my clients to be absolutely happy every time they look at a piece I framed.” FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 100

Ellen Simms is ready to give assistance for all your framing needs, and beyond!

The downtown Lakeland location of FastFrame

Hand-painted Peruvian mirrors are also available at FastFrame, as well as vintage Lakeland postcards and vintage Central Florida Citrus labels. Simms also enjoys displaying the work of local artists. In the future, look for a new display called “What’s Bugging You?”, an exhibit of various insects created by Michael Simms, who is an entomologist. Community involvement is a critical aspect of life in Lakeland for Simms. She is the Treasurer and the Marketing Chair of the Downtown Lakeland Partnership. “We’re really committed to downtown and making sure it continues its growth and its vibrancy and doesn’t lose that small-town feel,” she enthused. Simms is also a member of St. David’s Episcopal Church, sitting on the ministry advisory council, and is a member of the Lake Morton Neighborhood Association. FastFrame always stays open late on First Fridays, as well, adding to the atmosphere of the downtown area on its celebratory evening.

Ellen Simms displays some of the vintage Lakeland postcards available for purchase at FastFrame

FastFrame works with an art consolidator who has connections with about 150 different publishing houses so anything from inexpensive poster art to ﬁne art can be obtained quickly and easily. Preservation framing materials and techniques are used so your piece is protected for a lifetime. Besides the lifetime craftsmanship guarantee, FastFrame offers a 30-day design guarantee. Realizing the piece is not being designed where it will hang, FastFrame understands a color, style or proportion may be slightly “off.” Simms will work with the client once in the ﬁrst 30 days to change out whatever components aren’t working. All she asks is if the client chooses more expensive materials, they pay the difference. “I really like to have fun with the art and the clients,” Simms commented. “You’re more than ‘just’ a customer. You’re a client and you become a friend. I’ve made a lot of friends through this and it’s fun to watch a young couple bring in their wedding picture, and then their baby picture; I enjoy watching their families grow. I really enjoy the relationships that I’ve built, and look to be here a really long time.” For all your framing needs, call Ellen Hunter Simms at FastFrame (863) 688-5251.

Ellen Simms straightens one of the Peruvian mirrors on sale at FastFrame

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 101

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Ladies Nite at the Bull • Ladies drink free till 1am • 2 dance floors with live DJ's

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• Happy Hours 4pm-7pm (Free Admission/Free Buffet/Happy Hour drink specials) • Live Music from BULLSHOT, Dallas Bull's own house band • $1.75 beer specials.

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Party Nite at the Bull

• revolving drink specials all nite long • 2 dance floors full of fun • Perfect nite to celebrate birthdays, retirements, and bachelor or bachelorette parties.

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www.dallasbull.com

THE NEW DALLAS BULL IS LOCATED AT 3322 US Hwy 301 North • 813.987.Bull (2855)

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 102

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 103

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MODEL NOW OPEN

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Open House with Refreshments September 15th-17th • 10-2pm ��

FOR SALE IN HIGHLAND CREEK ��

$375,000

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FOR SALE IN HIGHLAND CREEK ��

$375,000 ��

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 104

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HOME GUIDE

129

103

For our community’s Buyers, Sellers and Owners

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1607 S. Alexander Street Suite 102

813-752-2087 813-759-1200

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BEAUTIFUL

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Call Julie Keene 716-3834

3 bedroom 2 bath w/ 2 car side-load garage sits on almost 1/2 acre waterfront lot. Extended screened lanai overlooks tranquil pond w/ no backyard neighbors. Large gourmet kitchen w/ eating area; and great room ﬂow in this open ﬂoor plan.

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Come build your dream home on this 3.13 acre waterfront lot on beautiful Lake Lester. Surrounded by well maintained, prestigious homes. Enjoy the convenience of nearby amenities and serenity of the 40 acre lake used for ﬁshing, water-skiing, etc. Rare ﬁnd - Priced under $500,000.

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is very clear at this is 3 bed/2 bath /2361 Sq.Ft.La and in perfect shape. Property has a 3 car garage, 3 carports, barn, storage shed, above ground pool w/deck and seperate 1 bed/1 bath GUEST HOUSE. All on just over 1 acre of fenced land. Priced at $474,900.00

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Nestled amongst grandfather oaks this neo-classical home was built with great attention to detail. 3/3 includes a wood burning ﬁreplace and a pool, detached pool house with a full bathroom, cedar sauna and workout room. 3 stall barn with board fenced pasture. Beautifully landscaped with accent lighting throughout. This is country living with sophistication. Competitively priced at $579,000.

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813

752-2087

.90 Acre with 48x28 Pole Barn. Great block home, 1296 SF, spacious kitchen, huge family room, fenced yard, screened back porch, childrens playhouse with A/C. Must see easy access to 1-4. Priced to sell $225,000.

Had it with the daily commute and trafﬁc? THEN THIS IS FOR YOU! Charming 3/1/1 on large corner lot. Short drive to downtown, universities and interstate. Less than 2 blocks to Hillsborough River

Amazing water view, one of a kind upscale condo, title and carpet throughout, convenient covered parking, spacious balcony overlooking incredible water view, full time security, completely updated. $399,900

�� Highland Creek. 4/2 with 2525 sq ft., oversized 2 Car Garage on 2.35 Acres. No Backyard Neighbors! Beautiful screened lanai. Too many upgrades to list. Must see at Only $384,900 ��

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�� This 3bed/2bath refurbished double wide just inside Polk Co. line is ready to move into! 1.3 ac. with new roof and fresh paint. 1,512 sq ft with Home Warranty. ��

WALDEN LAKE SILVER BROOKE

You will appreciate this smart and spacious home with 3Bd/2Ba, 3 car garage (one car garge attached and 2 car garage unattached), refreshing vinyl in-ground pool with attractive concrete decking and fenced yard!

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Seller’s transfer is your opportunity to own this LOVELY 3 Bdr 2 Ba Home with gleaming ﬂoors. Formal Living & Dining Room, Family Room & Study, Screened Lanai all on a large lot in Quiet Neighborhood. Act Fast or You will Miss This One! $259,900

Call Carrie Lang @ 813-767-3459

When it comes to Real Estate...

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 106

...because your move matters �� Remodeled from the tile roof to tile ﬂoors. Spacious 2 Bedroom + Den. This model perfect home has been completely updated with new kitchen, ﬂoors, walls and baths. This home is a must see! ��

�� When thinking of selling your home Free market evaluation Call Davy Miles @ 813-376-4444 mr.lister@kw.com

in this peaceful cul-de-sac subdivision of Walden Lake called Juniper Place. Spacious 4 bed/2 bath/1934 Sq.Ft.La. and built in 2001. Tile ﬂoors, split plan, open kitchen and in great shape. Priced at only $274,900 ��

�� New on the Market. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home with 12 BEAUTIFUL ACRES in a very Prime Area of Plant City. You don’t want to miss out on this one. Call Today for your Appointment! $595,000 ��

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on approx. 1/3 acre in Valrico- completed fenced in back with workshop. Home has remodeled kitchen with oak cabinets - tile ﬂoors and carpet. Inside utility room and 2 car garage - $224,900. ��

New intimate subdivision w/quick access to 1-4. This better than new 2-story, 2198sq.ft, 4Bd/3Ba home has eat-in kitchen, formal dining and large family room, granite counters, hardwood ﬂoors, designer carpet, volume ceilings, upgraded lighting and stainless steel appliances. If you must have perfection, this one’s for you! Offered at $349,900.

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Executive 5 BR 3 BA 3 CG w/Spectacular Waterview & almost 3,000 sq’ Living Area! The enormous Kitchen is a Gourmet’s Dream w/Granite Countertops & Wood Cabinets. Family Room w/ Fireplace. Pool & Large Lanai area & Brick Pavers. This Home is priced to SELL at Only $475,000

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Ready to move in, 1 acre w/ 4/2 1700+ sf. mobile. Great room, remodeled mstr bath with tile. A/c replaced in ‘05. Roof 3-4 yrs old. 30 x 30 workshop, 44’ x 66’ concrete pad. More money for your $ at $152,000.

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Call Janet Calvello @ 813-967-1939

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Call Jayne Rawnsley @ 813-763-0495

with spa & California style pool, in golf & country club community of Walden Lake. 3BD/2BA, split, 3 car garage w/workshop. All kitchen appliances inc washer, dryer, central vac, beautiful stained glass accents front entrance door, screened lanai, lg treed yard, white vinyl fences, security sys, 1 yr home warranty, $338,000.

Close to I-4 and Plant City restaurants. 2 bed,2 bath condo/townhouse with 1180 Sq.Ft.La. located in Cedar Run. Monthly maintenance includes water, sewer, trash, lawn and community pool. Great location, open ﬂoor plan and fenced terrace. Priced at only $139,900.

is evident in this 3BR/2BA home. Beautiful wooden kitchen cabinets-MBR has dual double hung closets & garden tub bath. All windows are solar tinted. Corner FP. Wonderful one-owner Walden Lake home.THIS ONE IS FOR YOU! $243,500.

...Plant City is seeing RED

759-1200

813

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 107

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 108

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 109

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 110

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“SERVICE WITH EXCELLENCE”

Lisa Potter REALTOR®

813-857-4768

Beautiful Walden Lake!

Call Lisa @ 813-857-4768.

�� Room to grow - 1.48 acres... - 18.5 acres (mol) adjacent to 10 acres also listed for sale. Cleared pasture land, fenced. 2-story home with magniﬁcant large windows to overlook stunning views of property. Bring the animals!!

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Build your dream home - 1 acre lot available in the much desired Country Trails subdivision; an area of grand estate homes. Minimum of 1800 sq ft. Land survey and tree survey available.

Brand new for you - Over 2400 sq foot 4 bedroom/ 3 bath on an acre. Enter the oversized master bedroom thru elegant french doors; approx. 25” x 14”. 42” oak wood cabinets in kitchen with island. 16” tile in foyer, kitchen and baths.

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 111

��

September-October Special!

Best Price on: Titlest Pro V & Pro VI Balls FootJoy Gloves & Shoes And Other Name Brand Items! Left Hand • Ladies • Seniors Juniors • Custom Fitted

Open to the Public 7 days a week!

With over 7,500 sq. ft. of banquet space & catering services we can accommodate:

Monday - Thursday Lakes Course / Hills Course

$25

$18

Full Service Repair Center Re-grip Special Set of 13 Clubs

$45

Fri - Sat - Sun

$22

$3.99 Breakfast Special 2 eggs/2 meat/Potato/Toast

Shoe Sale!

50% OFF Select Name Brands! Gift Cards Available!

• •

• Grouper or Catﬁsh Sandwich & Fries •

$4.99 Lunch Special

Single Clubs from $4

Lakes Course / Hills Course

$35

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$9.99 Dinner Special 10oz. New York Strip Potato/Salad/Bread

Weddings of 250 guests! Golf Tournaments up to 288 players! Corporate Meetings. Birthday & Anniversary parties, Bridal Showers. Book your Holiday Parties Now! Call Bill Kagel at

813-752-1171 ext. 11

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 112

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

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 114

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

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 115

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

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 116

e v i t a r o c e D

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 117

HOMES

HOME GUIDE

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Ken Lawrence-Senior Writer

The Walden Lake Review If you’re a golfer or know about the game, imagine striking the ball, it hits a tree and bounces all over the place before coming to a rest 6 feet from the pin. Well that just about describes what has happened at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. There have been more bounces of the “For Sale” ball in recent years than most people can keep track of. Now, that saga appears to have a happy ending! After entertaining offers from here, there and everywhere, the now departed owners, Meadowbrook, found buyers right under their noses. Led by Steve Mercer, former operator of the Plant City Golf Club, a total of seven local investors have purchased the Walden Lake facility for $3.6 million. Steve Mercer is the

Managing-Partner and will be on site just about every day. In an interview with FOCUS, Mercer showed that he is an aggressive marketer and is not making any outlandish promises like tearing down the clubhouse and building a marble palace. There will be changes, some subtle, but the number one thing in Mercer’s planning is having a staff that will be “very, very courteous” to customers. “I won’t accept anything less”, he tells FOCUS. Now that the Plant City Golf Course has been closed by its owners, Coronet Mines, Steve Mercer has already brought almost 200 new members from that club to Walden Lake. He has done so by offering them a yearly membership to play on

the Hills Course for only $900. Cart fees would be extra, as would play on the Lakes course, tennis, ﬁtness and the pool. The offer is also open to anyone else who wants to partake of this excellent deal. Golfers will be able to even walk the course.

merce, Realtors and whomever else he can gather to hear his engaging personality. As for previous reports that other potential buyers wanted to either shutdown one of the courses, or the driving range and build more houses, Mercer says “We bought this facility for golf and I’m convinced we can make money operating 36 holes in Walden Lake. I’m not a developer.”

The existing Walden Lake (Full) Members can look forward to improved services for their money as well. The restaurant is already open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, starting at 6:30 am-seven days a week and there’s a new Executive Chef, Svend Nelson, who is improving everything on the menu, from Cuban sandwiches to Prime Rib dinners.

More details about the golf course next month. Till then!

Steve Mercer will be meeting every Community Association Group, the Chamber of Com-

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HOMES

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

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Story by Shelton Keely

Landscaping Your Home Before You Sell Y

our home is your most major investment. With these days of low interest rates leading to high increases in home prices you may well be either deciding to sell your home or upgrade. Homes have had the best rate of investment returns in the last number of calendar years - far outweighing such traditional investments as stocks, bonds and bank accounts. A house is much more than that - it is the place you call home and where you raise your family. If you decide it is time to sell - perhaps you are an “empty nester” - now is an exceptional time to sell your home. Or you may simply want to upgrade or to change. Remember economics is ultimately supply and demand. Your property may be very valuable - being in an older established neighborhood.

and asking prices, as well as sell your property sooner during peak real estate sales periods? (Spring and summer for both possessions before and after the school year.) With homeowner’s priorities shifting to their outdoor living spaces, it is more important than ever your landscaping and backyard areas look their best when it comes time to sell. With more outdoor living spaces come more elaborate and beautiful landscaping.

beautifully and carefully executed. First impressions are not only important for buyers but for appraisers and real estate agents as well.

Studies have shown an attractive landscaping job can increase the value of a home. Homes with excellent landscaping sell 4 to 5 % higher, but homes with poor landscaping in neighborhoods with excellent landscaping sold for 8 to 10 % less.

Some suggestions to improve your landscape:

Ultimately, in order to obtain the highest selling price, what can you look for to increase your selling

The right landscape design can make all the difference to a prospective buyer, especially when it is

Plant City 2 bed/1 bath $850/month

So how much time, effort and money should you put into “sprucing” up your landscape if you are selling? If you put in a small amount of money, time and effort into your backyard, you will sell your home and probably get enough boosts in price to warrant the work.

If your backyard is nothing but weeds, get a weed eater and cut the weeds. Remove unsightly trees - too tall, large or inappropriate. However, ensure that you can dispose of the remains easily, legally and with little cost. Plant trees that will not grow too

large. Fruit trees are always a good choice for a backyard. Plant low level ﬂowers and shrubs on your lot. Make sure your back yard as well as the front is clean, neat and livable. If there is fence make sure it is in reasonable shape, if possible. A fresh coat of paint will always help to improve the value of ﬁrst impressions, as well as hide a multitude of sins. Remember, it is not just your house but your home and biggest lifetime investment. When you prepare to sell your house, pay attention to your landscaping. Simple proper steps to landscaping can both enhance the selling price of your home and make it easier and quicker to sell. Shelton Keely Keely & Associates Keller Williams Realty

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FEATURED HOME LaRoyce Keene

When You Have Time for Quality Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon LaRoyce Keene Builders built the Wineinger’s home that was completed in April 2005

In the back of their mind, everyone

For nearly 30 years, LaRoyce Keene

has a dream home they wish to build

has been a custom homebuilder in

one day. It’s a home that fulﬁlls all

the Plant City area. “I can take a

of their desires and is the epitome of

drawing on a paper napkin and turn

what beauty means to them. When it

dreams into reality,” said Keene.

comes time in someone’s life when

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 122

they can ﬁnally make that dream a

Being a fourth generation Plant City

reality, it is vital to pick a builder

resident, he knows this community

that you trust who will be able to

well. He is deeply rooted in the

take the ideal image in your head

community and therefore runs his

and turn it into your new home.

business with a small-town friendly

atmosphere. Often times, the

until you are satisﬁed.” Their home

Ed Verner, a Plant City local, has

Driving through Plant City, you will

buyers themselves become good

is a spacious 5,000 square feet of

used LaRoyce Keene to build his

ﬁnd his ﬁngerprints all over town.

friends of his.

living space and 8,000 square feet

home and also renovate multiple

From the old ﬁre station to the Vil-

total. Throughout the home, in

properties of his in downtown Plant

lages at Walden Lake, LaRoyce has

Take for example Amy and Mark

every room, you will notice the in-

City. “Regarding LaRoyce Keene

built or renovated many buildings in

Wineinger. LaRoyce Keene Build-

tricate detail from the molding and

- or Mozart, as I like to call him,”

this city.

ers built their home that they

trim to the columns and staircases.

said Verner, “LaRoyce is a true

moved into in April 2005. It was

Everything was custom-made by

artist and designer. The Lee Build-

Behind every great builder though,

through the dreadful 2004 hurri-

those at LaRoyce Keene Builders.

ing renovation would not have

is a staff that works hard to get the

happened without his and Debby’s

projects done well. Debby Keene,

cane season that much of the work was done on their home. However,

One thing to know about LaRoyce

dedication to the project. He builds

ofﬁce manager, Debbie Driskell,

it did not affect their home in any

Keene Builders is they spend qual-

things well. And like all truly

secretary and Jack Welch, ﬁeld

way except by causing a time delay.

ity time on each and every home.

caring artists, you ﬁnd yourself

superintendent, all care about the

“It’s customers like the Wineingers

None of their projects are rushed

unable to rush him, and just like

intricate details of the projects as

that make you enjoy working in the

but rather given all the attention

all truly gifted artists, you ﬁnd that

much as LaRoyce.

business,” said Keene.

they deserve. Having nearly 30

his products are worth the price

years experience in building, LaR-

and the time.” Verner used him

If you are in the market for a builder

For the Wineingers, they could not

oyce only uses speciﬁc people to do

for the Lee/Mann, as well as the

to do your custom home or renova-

be more satisﬁed with their home.

all of his work, from the plumbing

Young & Moody building, which is

tions, call LaRoyce Keene today.

[The pictures shown on these pages

to the trim. He will not trust his

also partly owned by the family of

You can trust that you will get the

are of their home.] “We enjoyed

homes to anyone other than those

Judge Moody.

quality you have been seeking. Call

using LaRoyce,” said Amy, “He’s

he knows will do superior work.

honest, fair-priced, and will work

LaRoyce Keene Builders at 813754-7250 for more information.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 123

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INDUSTRIAL AREA - RESIDENTIAL JUST LISTED ALL THE COMFORTS use currently with frame dwelling - power pole Lovely home in the country. Ideal for the commuter. 3 3/2 block & 1 acre in Springhead community. - well - septic. Seller offers no warranties on bedrooms, plenty of room for those family gatherings. Seller offering up to $10,000 closing costs. This home features screened inground pool, large 2 improvements. Property size 110x310. 1600 sf htd - 2 car garage - pine walls/ceiling car garage which has a workshop, and a nicely landasking $235,000 in Den - formal living - new A/C - new carscaped yard. Reduced to $297,500. Donʼt wait call Call Trish Joyce for complete info #B7 pet/paint. Neat & clean - Ready to move into. Carol Wright & Linda Hazzard for appt. #C6 $221,900. Call today for directions. #A6

45 ACRE COUNTRY RANCH & ESTATE Gorgeous custom build home on 45 acres...”Ernie White” Builder - Ranch style with 2100 sf block. 3/2 includes Familyroom with Stone ﬁreplace, open kitchen, Formal Living/Dining. Double french doors from Familyroom & Dining out to screened patio & pool from Master Bedroom. Huge Barn & Tackroom - gorgeous green fenced pasture - small feeding barn & arena. Additional acreage could be purchased with thie property. 10 acred of mature grove. Call Jon Poppell or Trish Joyce for more details. #A4

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BRAND NEW & WAITING FOR YOU! This 3 BR 2BA home has a great ﬂoor plan & is still under construction so you can choose colors. Great Rm with ﬁreplace. Master Suite has his & her walk-in closets, garden tub & separate shower. Scrnd Lanai. High & dry acre lot. $339,000. #607

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 124

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 131

MONEY

BUSINESS PROFILE

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Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

The People Who Care

SUNSHINE STATE FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN are, many of the things you see around you, Sunshine State had a hand in their establishment. When the Plant City campus of Hillsborough Community College built their new John R. Trinkle Center, Sunshine State contributed $400,000, which is the reason one of the rooms is named after the bank. They also donated $100,000 to the new South Florida Baptist Hospital Emergency Room, as well as $100,000 to the operating room. Not to mention, a few years ago when the Plant City Family YMCA was built, Sunshine State donated $100,000 there as well. The list continues to go on. Simply put, Sunshine State’s ﬁngerprints are all over this community.

(L to R) Lea Sacco, Senior VP; Robert Brown, Executive VP and Treasurer; Floyd Hall, President; and Paul Hackney, Senior VP.

hen it comes time to choose a bank, there are several qualities to take into consideration. Since 1954, Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan has realized the importance of these qualities and exceeded expectations.

The bank originated in Plant City; it was formerly known as First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Plant City. Some may wonder what the differences are between a commercial bank and a savings and loan. When originally chartered, there were differences, but in today’s society, they are the same. There is nothing that you can do at a commercial bank that a savings and loan cannot provide you as well.

Sunshine State now has ﬁve bank branches. The headquarters are at the location in downtown Plant City. There is a second Plant City location at the intersection of James Redman Parkway and Alexander Street. The three other locations are in Brandon, Riverview and Zephyrhills. The wonderful aspect of banking with a smaller bank is that they care about their customers. They are treated as individuals, not just account numbers like you will ﬁnd at some larger national banks. The phones are always answered by a person, never a machine. You can do all of your banking with the help of a staff person. There is always someone available to see you if you want to talk about your account.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 132

However, if you prefer the less involved manners of banking, they also have the latest technology that allows you to bank by phone or internet. Floyd Hall, president of Sunshine State, said, “It’s the people that work here that make this bank feel like a family.” Hall has been with the bank for 25 years and there are still people there that worked at Sunshine State before he did. Since there is very little turn-over, customers can expect consistency and the employees are able to build strong relationships with the customers. Above all else, Sunshine State emphasizes community. Just drive around Plant City and chances

To Hall, children are also an important focus, which is why he teamed up with Partnership to Advance School Success (P.A.S.S.). In this program, the state matches whatever someone donated to the school, in this case, Sunshine State donated $100,000. Then, the principal and C.E.O. of the company (Floyd Hall), work together to decide how the money can best be used to improve the school. There are organizations in this community that the bank has been supporting for over 25 years. You can survey the employees of the bank and you will ﬁnd a representation of most civic and non-proﬁt organizations in town. Sunshine State cares about people and about this community. Your money can be trusted in the hands of people who simply want to help others. For more information on this bank, call 813-752-6193 or 813-754-1844 or stop by one of the two Plant City locations at 102 W. Baker St and 2400 James L Redman Parkway.

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 133

MONEY

INVESTING

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t’s back-to-school time again. If you are a parent of a college student, you’ve probably already made whatever arrangements you are going to make to meet those hefty tuition payments - and some of these arrangements can involve considerable sacrifice. But if your children are a few years away from heading off to school, you can still take advantage of some attractive college savings vehicles - and the best time to start exploring these options is now. How important is it to save early and often for college? Just ponder these figures from the 2005-2006 school year: For students attending fouryear public colleges and universities, the average total cost was $15,566, while students at four-year private colleges and universities paid, on average, $31,916, according to the College Board. These numbers will surely rise for this school year, and, in all likelihood, for the next few years, too. In fact, for the past decade, inflation has been much higher on the college campus than in the world outside. So, what can you do? What’s the best way to save and invest for college? As is the case when you save for retirement, it’s a good idea to find vehicles that offer both growth potential and tax advantages. Here are a couple to consider: Coverdell Education Savings Account - Depending on your income level, you can contribute up to $2,000 annually to a Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA). Your Coverdell earnings and withdrawals will be tax-free, provided you use the money for qualified education expenses. (Any non-education withdrawals from a Coverdell ESA may be subject to a 10 percent penalty.) You can place your contributions to a Coverdell

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 134

ESA into virtually any investment you choose - stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, etc. Section 529 savings plan - In a Section 529 savings plan, you put money in specific investments. All withdrawals will be free from federal income taxes, as long as the money is used for a qualified college or graduate school expense of the beneficiary you’ve named - typically, your child or grandchild. (However, 529 distributions will appear as income on the child’s tax return, which could affect financial aid calculations.) Withdrawals for expenses other than qualified education expenditures may be subject to federal, state and penalty taxes. Aside from the tax benefits, a Section 529 savings plan offers other advantages. First, account limits are quite high - you can accumulate more than $200,000 per beneficiary in many state plans, although special gifting provisions may apply. And, just as importantly, you can get significant estate-planning benefits from a Section 529 savings plan. Because you can contribute large amounts of money to the plan, you may be able to reduce the size of your taxable estate. Plus, even though the assets are out of your estate, you retain control of them. You decide who will get the money and when he or she will get it. You can even change the beneficiary to another family member. Before investing in either a Coverdell ESA or a Section 529 plan, see your tax advisor. Contributions for Section 529 plans are tax-deductible in certain states for residents who participate in their own state’s plan. But don’t wait too long. While college may look a long way off for your children or grandchildren now, time has a way of sneaking up on you - so don’t let it catch you unprepared.

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Call Hiram 813.716.2416 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 135

HEALTH

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Submitted by Dr. Jeﬀrey Dunn

Facing Fall with Great Skin With the scorching days of summer nearing an end, it’s time to prepare your skin for exposure to the harsher fall elements. Lower temperatures, cold wind and dry heated rooms are all major threats to fresh looking and supple skin. Skin can become pale, dry and sluggish, and a variety of skin diseases including eczema and psoriasis can also develop. Following are some simple tips to help your skin make the transition from summer to fall: CLEANSING COUNTS Avoid bar soaps; they are harsh to the skin and contain detergents. Instead, reduce scrubbing to a minimum and use a mild cleanser like Physician’s Choice (PCA) skin care’s Facial Wash, a gentle gel cleanser that includes lactic acid, a natural exfoliate. For the body, a non-abrasive scrub such as Skinceutical’s Body Polish can exfoliate and hydrate dry patches. Using a gentle exfoliate is important, as it helps remove old skin cells and prepares the skin to absorb moisturizers more effectively.

Also, limit long, hot showers that can strip the skin of its natural moisture.

ation. Also, start using lip care balms to moisturize your lips and guard against chapping.

MOISTURIZE AND HYDRATE Application of moisturizer is crucial, regardless of your skin type. PCA’s Collagen Hydrator can alleviate skin dryness and provides excellent antioxidant beneﬁts. Remember to apply any kind of moisturizer at least 30-40 minutes before going outside. This allows time for the cream to absorb and prevents the water contained in the cream from evaporating, leaving your skin cold and causing dryness.

INTERNALIZE YOUR SKINCARE How you care for your body inside can affect how you look outside. Maintaining your daily intake of water helps your skin cleanse itself and eliminate toxins. Boost your immune system with vitamins to avoid colds that can ravage your skin. And, make good food choices. Cranberries, for example, are full of antioxidants and have a naturally mild bleaching agent for brown spots on the skin. Turkey, a Thanksgiving staple, is also high in protein, which is good for hair and nails.

If you ﬁnd that your skin is extremely dry, use a skin serum, such as Skinceutical’s Hydrating B5 Gel. Skin serums generally absorb faster and penetrate deeper than creams or lotions, so they’re very effective if your skin is really in need of moisture. Don’t forget your hands – moisturize them every time you wash them. This will help reduce wrinkles, cracking and discolor-

LOOK INTO A FALL SKIN MAKEOVER Fall is the perfect time to look into a non-surgical skin makeover. To correct signs of premature aging, look into some of the following options:

can reduce or eliminate fine lines, correct uneven skin pigmentation, and soften acne or treat scars caused by acne. IPL photofacials (for the face) and skin rejuvention (for the shoulders, chest, hands and back) effectively diminishes age spots, freckles, uneven pigmentation and rosacea. Microdermabrasion gently exfoliates and resurfaces the skin, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and superficial wrinkles, blemishes, acne, and slight scarring caused by sun damage. Options for skin care treatments should be discussed with a physician and/or skin care professional for optimal results. It’s important to treat your skin well all year long. However, with special care your skin will weather fall’s elements beautifully and you can look forward to a radiant spring.

Chemical peels can be performed on both the face and body. They

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 136

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 137

HEALTH

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Submitted by Sherry Nueesch

Chew on This

ould you like to know if there was harm lurking around you? Would you like to know if your children or grandchildren were in harm’s way? Of course that is a yes. Believe it or not there is a well-funded and determined effort, albeit it very disguised, to put you and your children and grandchildren in harm’s way.

There is a scorpion in your underwear drawer. There is an alligator in your pool. There is a rattlesnake in your mailbox. In my neck of the woods where I grew up on the farm, we would have said there is a fox in the hen house. There are some really bad things going on in fast food restaurants and unfortunately in many of our school cafeterias. Eric Schlosser and Charles Wilson have written a book called, “Chew On This.” It is everything you don’t want to know about fast food. As it says on the back cover, “Read Chew On This and ﬁnd out what really goes on at your favorite restaurants—and what lurks between those sesame seed buns.” I REALLY want you to read this book. Children are not capable of parenting themselves. They need us adults to look out for them. They need us adults to teach them some very important things in life, like how to take care of their bodies so they can become healthy and happy adults. It has been reported over and over this past year that one in three children, born in the year 2000, will die early due to Type II Diabetes. Children who get Type II Diabetes

will have a shortened life span by 17 to 26 years. Who among us wants to go into the first grade and put an X on every third child, condemning them to a life of disease? When the researchers and writers report on the Diabesity epidemic in America, they ALL link it back to diet. They aren’t even debating the issue any more. Everyone agrees diet is the most important factor for the prevention of obesity and Type II Diabetes in children. It doesn’t stop there. According to Schlosser, “Overweight teenagers today are having surgery to make their stomachs smaller. They are also having heart attacks.” Yes, I really want you to read this book. In this small space I cannot tell you all you need to know. Therefore, I am going to include a few paragraphs from the book to help convince you that you do indeed need to read “Chew On This.” I am going to quote the following paragraph directly from the book. “During the course of a year, the typical American child watches more than 40,000 TV commercials. About 20,000 of those ads are for junk food: soda, candy, breakfast cereals, and fast food. That means children now see a junk-food ad every five minutes while watching TV-and see about three hours of junk-food ads every week. American kids aren’t learning about food in a classroom. They are being told what to eat by the same junk-food ads repeating over and over again.” During the year 2004 there was actually a Youth Marketing Forum held in Singapore. The purpose of the conference was to brainstorm on how to get children hooked on sodas, candy and junk food at a very early age. One of the best ways has been to get sodas and fast food into schools. Schlosser writes that one out of every five public schools in the United States now serves brand-name fast food. Again I want to quote directly from the book. “Over the past ten years soda companies have launched

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 138

major advertising campaigns in American schools. Adults are now drinking less soda, and persuading kids to drink more is one way to increase sales. “Inﬂuencing elementary school students is very important to soft drink marketers,” an industry newspaper explained, “because children are establishing their taste and habits.” Eight year olds were considered the ideal customers, since they had about 65 years of buying sodas ahead of them. “Entering the school system makes perfect sense,” the industry paper concluded. The soda industry and the fast food industry know full well the ill effects of their products. They know it so well they are going to great lengths to market more and better counter the negative publicity aimed at them over the last couple of years. If we let

them win, we are destroying the lives of way too many of our children. Our children are being brainwashed. Are we going to sit back and let it happen or are we going to pick up the ﬁght and save our babies? A good way to start is by reading “Chew On This” and educating yourself. Next, you stop buying the stuff! Every dollar we spend in the fast food joints and in the grocery stores for sodas and processed foods is another vote yes to the industry to keep on poisoning us and our children. Our wallets are our loudest voices. The book “Chew On This” is available at all book stores or at www.amazon.com. Please read it for the kid’s sake. As always, to your health, Sherry Nueesch.

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813-300-4763 • 813-757-0140 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 139

HEALTH

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Submitted by Sandhill Bone & Joint

Minimal Incision Surgery, or Not? E

very year more than 500,000 knee replacements are done on people with a wide variety of diagnosis. Whether it is everyday Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, or an arthritic condition related to a previous injury, knee replacements have become an effective tool in the Orthopaedic surgeon’s tool box. Well over 95% of the people who undergo this miraculous surgery experience a signiﬁcant improvement in function and a reduction in pain. As such, knee replacement surgery has become one of the most dramatic and successful operations of our time. As with any medical or surgical procedure, researchers are continually trying to improve upon the techniques of the day. Undoubtedly knee replacement surgery has undergone many improvements and innovations over the years. Many of these improvements in the design of the implants and the surgical technique of the procedure have led to

better end results for the patients; however, there are at times some changes that do not result in signiﬁcant clinical advances. In fact, sometimes these changes can have disastrous consequences. For example, back in the early days of joint replacement, Sir John Charnley, one of the pioneers in the technique experimented with using “Teﬂon” as a joint bearing surface. The result was a pure and utter failure. Other advances in materials have led us to the wonderful combinations of metals, plastics, and ceramics that make up the super long lasting implants of today. My point is this: New is not always better when a patient considers a joint replacement; it is not always the latest and greatest advance that is the best for a patient. In this article, I would like to discuss the concept of MIS joint replacement. MIS is short for Minimal Incision Surgery. The idea behind MIS is that through

a smaller incision, perhaps less trauma would be caused to the surrounding tissues. The hope was that with MIS techniques healing rates would increase, infection rates would decrease, recovery time would diminish, and the failure rate would diminish. I would argue that the exact opposite might be happening. Sensationalized in the popular press, MIS joint replacement has become the rage. Patients are clamoring for the procedure all the time thinking that they are getting the latest and the greatest operation. Many surgeons have tried to capitalize on this hysteria and have marketed the technique heavily in order to increase their joint replacement practices. Yet in reality, for the most part, they are getting the same operation only through a smaller incision! In many surgeons’ opinions and with increasing support in the literature, the exact opposite seems to be happening. With

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MIS techniques, particularly in the hands of less experienced surgeons the complication, infection, and failure rates may actually be increasing. I will admit to a couple of clear beneﬁts that have resulted from the push to MIS surgery. First, the increased aggressiveness of rehabilitation has led to shorter hospital stays and faster recovery time. Secondly, surgeons have learned to “Right size” the incision. Now most successful joint replacement surgeons now use an incision of sufﬁcient length to get the job done correctly – no shorter; no longer. As one of my professors once told me long ago, “the incision heals side to side, not end to end.” In any event, when deciding upon a joint replacement surgery, it is best to consider the surgeon’s results and the hospital outcomes more than the size of the incision or if they are doing the latest operation shown on Fox News.

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Fellow: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons Fellow: American College of Surgeons Member: American Society for surgery of the Hand Certiﬁed: American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 141

EDUCATION

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Story by Linda Floyd Photos courtesy of the Dion family

Matthew Dion

A DURANT JUNIOR WHO’S ALREADY SOARING Tampa Bay Soaring Society, which covered all costs for him to achieve his private pilot glider license. He has earned his private pilot single engine land license in December, as well, along with a glider rating this past March. The Tampa Bay Soaring Society honored him with a certiﬁcate of appreciation for his implementation of a new time-saving towrope glider procedure, cutting down the amount of time between ﬂights from seven minutes to one minute.

t is very rare to meet a young person who, at 17 and just beginning his junior year at Durant High School, is as accomplished in the field of aeronautics as Matthew Dion. Born and raised in Plant City and in love with airplanes since the age of two, he adopted his parents’, Charles and Brenda Dion, love of flying when they used to take him to Tampa International Airport to sit on the top parking level and just watch planes take off and land. A Cadet 2nd Lieutenant in the General Chuck E. Yeager Cadet Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), the U.S. Air Force’s Auxiliary, he was recently awarded the most prestigious national Frank G. Brewer Memorial Aerospace Award for the cadet category. This meant that the CAP recognized Matthew as having significantly contributed the most to the advancement of youth in the area of Aerospace Education (AE) for the previous year, out of 37,000 cadets nationally. Some of those contributions included his being the Cadet AE

Officer for his squadron, planning and conducting all the aerospace activities and monthly AE classes; being a color guard commander for his squadron; teaching an aviation class to Girl Scout Troop 619 so they could earn their aviation badges; teaching two classes to Dover Elementary School students introducing them to aviation; and serving as a flight sergeant during AirFest 2005 at MacDill Air Force Base. He also taught three classes in glider launch procedures to his squadron to prepare them for glider orientation flight days, during which he served on staff for ten days and as crew chief on four of those days. Matthew has also served as a volunteer instructor for the Florida Air Museum’s Sun n’ Fun Aviation Camp in Lakeland, their Wings ‘n Things’ program on model rocketry for youth groups, and a youth aviation class during the museum’s High Flying Holidays event. As if all that wasn’t enough, he also won the 2005 Bartoletti Glider Scholarship from the

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 142

In his spare time, Matthew has attended Valiant Air Command and Cape Canaveral tours, a Florida Wing Aerospace Education Workshop in Tampa, was 2nd in his class at Tyndal Air Force Base’s Regional Cadet Leadership School, and won the Top Gun Award for academics after training with actual Air Force pilots at the Air Education Training Command. He has also participated in actual Search and Rescue missions with CAP. While participating in his aeronautical activities, Matthew also manages to keep his grades up, making mostly A’s, and is a member of the National Honor Society. He is a member of Durant’s Cross Country Track team, ROTC and

the Saber Team/Honor Guard. His enthusiasm and dedication to aerospace has inspired his parents, along with his twin sisters, Kimberly and Christine, to join CAP, making it a real family affair. When asked what he did for fun, Matthew explained that instead of the usual video games young men are playing these days, he has a Microsoft Flight Simulator program, complete with joystick and pedals, which he plays on his computer. Go ﬁgure! Matthew’s future goal is to attend the U. S. Air Force Academy and to ﬂy KC-135 cargo planes. This writer certainly has no doubts that this quiet, unassuming, exceptional young man will do exactly that!

MatthewDion, Cadet 2nd Lieutenant in the General Chuck E. Yeager Cadet Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), the U.S. Air Force’s Auxiliary, was recently awarded the most prestigious national Frank G. Brewer Memorial Aerospace Award for the cadet category

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SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

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Story and Photo by Sophia Dedon

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Jacari Bennett In his senior year, Jacari Bennett is certainly making a name for himself. Starting running back for Plant City High School, Bennett already has nearly 300 yards after only the ﬁrst three games. The coaches, players, teachers and even the fans have nothing but positive words to say about him. “He’s a quiet leader,” said Head Coach Kevin Kelley, “He works hard, performs well, and is what Raider football is all about.” Bennett has played football for PCHS all four years and began playing on the varsity team following his freshman season. In the off season he has also run track every year. “Football helps me stay out of trouble,” said Bennett. His daily routine following school is to practice with the team, go home to do homework, lift weights, and then spend time with his mom and friends. Bennett enjoys playing the position of running back the most because “You get the ball a lot. Most of the time, if the play gets messed up, I know it’s my fault. I just like the pressure,” said Bennett. This season, he has certainly handled the pressure well. He performs at his best every game and has become a crowd favorite. “The thing about Jacari,” said Coach Kelley, “is that you will never see him boasting in the halls or acting like a big shot. He’s the kind of player you want to see on your team.” Being that it is his senior year, Bennett has his eyes on college football as well. He hopes to play for a college team following high school. His dream is to play for either LSU or USF. “I think that I would ﬁt in with the staff and playing techniques of both those schools,” said Bennett. Jacari…keep up the good work and continue to make Plant City proud!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 146

Full Detail With Each Collision Repair We Meet By Accident! �� Lifetime Warranty

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�� Brandon - “Sciatica has puzzled doctors and frustrated patients for years. But now space travel and modern technology may have ﬁnally cracked the back pain and sciatica code.” Those are the enthusisiastic words of Brandonʼs Dr. Shane Parson, D.C. Dr. Parson has been using non-surgical spinal decompression - an amazing space-age medical breakthrough to treat back pain, disc herniations, and sciatica...for over seven months now. “I was shocked at the results spinal decompression gets in such a short time. And how long those results last... without the side effects of drugs or risk of surgery. I was also shocked that so few doctors in the country were willing to invest in this amazing new technology” commented Dr. Parson. “But the best thing is I am able to offer this medical breakthrough to so many low back disc herniation and sciatica

sufferers right here in Brandon.” Due to his tremendous success with back pain, herniated discs, sciatica and pain radiating into the legs Dr. Parson has made available a free report to anyone suffering with these painful conditions. “I just wanted back �� pain sufferers to know they �� have an option other than drugs and surgery... an option that really works. I wanted to let them know there is ﬁnally REAL hope...that hope is detailed in my free report.” �� To get your free copy of Dr. Parsonʼs revolutionary new report, “How Space Age Technology Is Solving Back Pain Without Drugs Or Surgery!” just call toll-free 1-800676-0446 and listen to the 24 hr recorded message or request it at www.PainFreeBack Report.com Supplies are limited -

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 147

EXTRA

AUTO REVIEW

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Story by Brian West Photos courtesy of Scion

Scion tC

A WONDERFUL CAR FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

A few years ago, Toyota began a new car company, Scion. And they seem to be doing very well with it. The idea was to offer a quality vehicle at a lower, more affordable price point, targeted at today’s younger drivers. The Scion has done just that. I probably see several of these cars on the road almost daily, and each time they seem to be driven by younger drivers. That’s not to say that older drivers can’t have a Scion. Anyone can. One of the more popular models of the Scion brand is the Scion tC. The tC is a sport hatchback. It is very small, and although it has a back seat, it is really designed for the driver and one passenger. Due to the tC’s short length (174 inches), passengers in the back seat, unless they’re small children, will ﬁnd their heads touching the glass of the back hatch. But this is about the only negative I found

with the tC. But when you’re marketing to the younger, more limber market, this just doesn’t really matter. It will seat 5 limber teens with no problem. The exterior styling is attractive. The lines are simple, but they work. The rear of the car stops just past the rear tires, which helps with its youthful look. The rooﬂine is low and the hood is short and compact. Under the hood, the tC comes equipped with the same 2.4liter dohc 16-valve, inline 4-cylinder engine as it’s parent company’s Toyota Camry, producing 160hp. Although 160hp may not sound like much, especially when all we seem to hear about lately is the amount of horse power available in many of the new retro sports cars, trust me – it’s plenty for this ride. If I had to describe it in two words, I’d say “plenty peppy.” The tC may not turn 60mph in less than 5 seconds, but it’s plenty fast.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 148

In addition, this 4-cylinder gets about 22-29mpg. On the inside, the styling is what you’d expect from an import carmaker like Toyota. The tC’s interior has clean lines, and all the controls and dials are where you’d expect them to be. Everything is ergonomically friendly for both driver and passenger. The model I drove even had an iPod controller. This was really useful and keeps buyers from having to purchase additional after-market accessories. The 2007 model also sports a new stereo system with a volume knob, something prior models didn’t have. This also shows that Scion is listening to its customers in an effort to improve the brand. Driving the Scion was just plain fun. The model I drove had an automatic transmission, which may not be what many younger drivers are after, but it worked for

me – put it in gear, push the gas, and go. Simple. Handling was good. The Scion seems to turn on a dime, which is due to the short wheelbase. Drivers should have no problems getting into tight parking spaces – or even parallel parking, even for those who hate to do it. A nicety of the Scion tC is that ABS brakes and all power accessories are standard equipment. And when you consider the fact that you can purchase a fully loaded tC with every bell and whistle available, and still be under $20,000 out the door (including tax, tag, and title), the tC is quite a buy. The sticker on the tC I drove was $17,535. Amazing. If you’re shopping for a car for your son or daughter, this may be the one to consider. At least take a look at it. You’ll probably be pleasantly surprised with the quality of this one.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 149

EXTRA

AL RUECHEL

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By Al Ruechel

We’re All On The Same Team

It’s such a simple idea I’m not sure why someone hadn’t said it sooner. Maybe they did but we just didn’t listen. Joe Lieberman, the democrat senator from Connecticut, was talking about his defeat in the democratic primary and his run as an independent. “With all this bickering and ﬁghting between the parties I think we’ve all forgotten that we are all on the same team. We are all Americans who want what’s best for our country,” he told a radio audience recently. Okay, so that’s not the most original thought in the world but it does speak

volumes. The spin machines are so busy during the election season trying to paint their party candidates as the “savior” and the other party candidates as the “devil” we forget these candidates are all Americans who love their country. The campaigns remind us that a certain candidate may be guilty of the gravest error in political life, which is ﬂip-ﬂopping on an issue. Gee, when I went to college it was called changing your mind. There was nothing wrong with that as long as you changed your position based on new information or information that was previously unknown. Part of the blame is most certainly campaign advertising both in print and on the air. These candidates have such a limited amount of time their “handlers” have to point out the differences between the two quickly. Most often that involves pointing out what they consider to be the opponent’s failures… with a capital “F”. And if they really want your attention they will even resort to negative stereotypes they feel will cast a cloud over the opponent. The ads that tout the positives of a candidate are said to be ineffective because they don’t change anyone’s mind.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 150

Then, there is the buzz or hot words. “Liberal” and “conservative” as used to paint a candidate as full of crazy spending ideas or a war-mongering religious zealot. Political consultants tell me those words work very effectively. And the reason they work is because most of the voters are lazy, haven’t done their homework on a candidate’s background, and tend to vote based on one or two hot button issues. Here’s another reason. I call it the win-lose paradigm. Thanks to our fixation with sporting events, EVERYTHING is defined in terms of winning or losing. Well, I’m sorry. In my rather complicated and interconnected world, things are not always so black and white. On some days what appears to be a win turns out to be a loss. The great majority of events in my life are just that, events that don’t demand a score. Hey, I’m alive and I guess you would have to call that a win. Yes, but I’m sitting on a ticking time bomb. No problem, that time bomb is a dud. Yes, but I’m sitting in the middle of a freeway with a truck coming at me going 80 miles an hour. No problem, I’ll just stop writing and not finish the story and live on to fight another day.

My point is this; as you head to the polls this November, there are an awful lot of great candidates out there on all sides that deserve your attention. They have sacriﬁced a lot of time, money and even families for the honor of serving you. I don’t remember anyone promising them it would be easy. I don’t see them complaining when, for the umpteenth time in a row, only a handful of people show up at those candidates’ forums to learn how to say their names. Considering I’ve had the unique opportunity of meeting dozens of candidates face to face I can tell you I haven’t found one pariah among them. They are all decent Americans who just want the opportunity to be heard. They are team players, every one of them. If you like their ideas you can vote for them. If you don’t like their ideas, ﬁnd another candidate. But at least you owe them and the rest of us who truly cherish our form of elective government a few minutes of your time. A vote, paid for by the blood of patriots, is a terrible thing to waste.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 151

EXTRA

TRAVEL

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Story and Photos by Daniel Sperry

Escape The City Life - Head Into Town? LITHIA SPRINGS IS A NATURAL WONDERLAND CLOSE TO HOME

o you want to get away? You need a vacation and you need it badly? Unfortunately, you are out of vacation days, your kids are in school and your grass needs to be mowed. It seems that your only recourse is cable reruns and a lawn chair in the back yard. Not so fast! Whether it is just for a few hours or for an overnight camping trip, Lithia Springs Park is an amazing getaway, and it is only a half hour drive to get there; just head toward Valrico. Valrico? Yes. Ignore the Starbucks and the Publix. Ignore the traffic and the hustle and bustle of everyone running errands. Bear with the red lights and construction, because just down Lithia Pinecrest Road you will see a small sign on your right: Lithia Springs Park. If you find yourself at Kash N Karry and Fishhawk Road, you went too far. Turn around! Because you will be amazed. As you head down the drive that leads to the park, you will be surprised how fast the city disappears from around you. Suddenly the trees become denser and you could easily believe you have left civilization hundreds of miles behind you. Lithia Springs Park is over 200 acres and has been developed around two natural springs that pour 24 million gallons of water a day into the Alafia River. No matter what time of year it is, the springs remain at a constant 72 degrees, perfect for swimming. The campsites at the park are spread out so that they are not on top of each other, which allows for a great deal more privacy than you will find at a lot of parks in Florida. They are supplied with water and electricity and the camping cost is only twelve dollars per night.

While some weekends there may be more than a few people who come to the park for the day for swimming in the springs, there is plenty more to do while here. The park contains cypress swamps and sand dunes which can be explored and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. “I come here often,” says one woman. “The springs are cold and crystal clear. It is a must for hot summer days in Florida.” Near the park is a canoe rental facility which provides day trips down the Alaﬁa River where alligators and turtles are common sights, along with red shouldered hawks and maybe even a wild peacock. For the more adventurous, or just those who are looking for a little bit more solitude, a 40 acre section of the park has been set aside as a preserve. There is no camping in this area, but it is a rare, untouched part of nature which can be hiked and explored. To reach the preserve, turn west off of Lithia Pinecrest onto Adalaide, then south onto Hill Drive. Look for a metal gate on the left after the pavement ends.

The beautiful Lithia Spring has a beach and plenty of places to bask in the sun.

The cost to visit the park for the day is only one dollar, and between swimming, canoeing and hiking opportunities, there is no shortage of things to do. For the beachcombers, as recently as 2001, evidence of prehistoric North American society has been discovered in and around the springs dating back to 2,000 BC. So if you need a break, and do not have the time to take a long vacation, just hop in the car and head into town. It is the best way to get away from it all. Lithia Spring Park is located at 3932 Lithia Springs Road, Lithia, FL 33547, or for more information, you can call them at 813-744-5325.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 152

A large, new playground oﬀers a diversion for camping kids and parents who need a break!

The Alaﬁa river winds its way gently through Lithia Springs Park and contains plenty of wild birds, alligators and turtles for boaters and hikers to observe.

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Story by Johnnie Byrd

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Hunting Safety H

unting season is just around the corner.

Anyone born on or after June 1, 1975 cannot purchase a hunting license without first successfully completing a hunter safety course. Proof of satisfactory completion of Florida’s Hunter Safety Course or an approved course provided by another state, province or organization is required when purchasing a hunting license. Children under age 16 may hunt with adult supervision without having to take a hunter safety course. Whether you have been hunting all your life or are a newcomer to the sport, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Hunter Safety Course has something for you. The free, 16-hour course does more than just teach you how to handle firearms. Topics include outdoor ethics, wildlife identification and management, survival, field first aid, firearm laws and the Florida Wildlife Code. The basics of archery and black powder (muzzleloader) hunting also are taught in the course, and for those interested in bowhunting certification, a limited number of advanced archery courses also are available. To find out more about these courses, contact the hunter safety administrator at an FWC regional office and register for a class. Getting into fall classes can be difficult, as there is more demand and class sizes are limited. You can avoid the rush, however, by taking the course in the spring or summer. Effective Aug. 1, 2006, anyone 16 years or older and born after May 31, 1975 can hunt under the supervision of a licensed hunter, 21 or

older, without having to complete the state’s hunter safety certiﬁcation. The newly established “Hunter Safety Mentoring Exemption” enables those persons to purchase a Florida hunting license and hunt during a one-year trial basis. The new mentoring exemption was passed by the Florida Legislature to help persuade more people to experience hunting. It is designed to encourage experienced hunters to teach novice hunters about safety, ethics, wildlife, hunting skills and respect for Florida’s outdoors. Until now, everyone 16 or over, and born after May 31, 1975, needed to complete the hunter safety requirement before they were allowed to buy a hunting license.

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�� Thatʼs what we hear from many of our students! They Know that not all martial arts schools are the same! They appreciate receiving quality instruction in a friendly non-intimidating atmosphere! We are so conﬁdent in our program we even offer a money back guarantee! Call us today for a free intro class to see what we can do for you.

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“This should be a great incentive for getting more people to give hunting a try, and hopefully, we can hook some of these folks on the hunting tradition,” said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hunter safety coordinator Bill Cline. “If a novice hunter enjoys the sport, we hope they take the hunter safety course and continue the experience for years to come.” Individuals taking advantage of this try-before-you-buy approach would have to take and pass a hunter safety class to be eligible to purchase a hunting license and hunt the following year. Have fun, and be careful out there! Johnnie Byrd is an attorney with the Plant City ﬁrm of Byrd & Stitzel, P.A. and practices in the areas of personal injury, marital law and criminal defense.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 153

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My husband was so impressed with my skinʼs appearance after the ﬁrst facial Katie did for me that he insisted I make standing monthly appointments with A Healthy Glow. Iʼm especially enjoying the Dermalogica skin care products, too. Treat yourself and schedule an appointment today. Katieʼs passion is helping you put your best face forward!

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-Cheryl Johnston

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Walden Lake Business Services Inc.

Contractors Noticing Services Inc. • Notice to Owner • Claims of Lien • Notices of Commencement • Notice of Non-Payments • Bond Claims • Lien Releases • Incorporations • Lien Satisfaction • Notary • New Business Start Up • Collections

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�� Q. I can hear very soft sounds but sometimes I donʼt understand people speaking.

PROUDLY SERVING PLANT CITY SINCE 1988

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A. There are certain hearing losses that would make it more difﬁcult to understand speech but may not interfere with your ability to hear sound. New technologies have now allowed us to enhance speech without making everything louder.

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�� FREE REAL EAR MEASUREMENT This service includes: Free Hearing Screening �� Free Real Ear Analysis �� Free Hearing Aid Test �� Free Clean and Check Call 754-3955 to schedule your no-obligation Real Ear appointment Offer expires 10/15/2006

BUY 1 GET 1 FREE HEARING AID BATTERIES Get an 8 pack of batteries free with the purchase of an 8 pack of batteries at regular price of $8.00 pack. For sizes 10, 312, 13 & 675 Offer expires 10/15/2006. Must present coupon. One discount per customer.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 155

D&E

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813-764-0990 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 156

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 157

D&E

ENTERTAINMENT

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Brian West Photos courtesy of the Ramada Inn Plantation House

Put On Your Dancing Shoes

THE NEW DANCE FLOOR AT RAMADA INN PLANTATION HOUSE IS A STEP ABOVE

on the bottom of the hotel pool, to the five-star dining in the main restaurant, the Ramada is something that makes the entire community proud. In the past month, Batista, Sr. and Evelyn Madonia completed their latest Evelyn and Batista, Sr. Madonia renovation; a new and enlarged dance floor in the dining room. ust a few short years ago, BaThe Ramada’s Director of Markettista, Sr. and Evelyn Madonia ing, Linda Urban, said, “We simply bought the Ramada Inn Plantation outgrew the old dance floor. People House, formerly the Holiday Inn. were just packed onto the old dance They completely remodeled the floor and there just wasn’t enough facility and haven’t looked back space.” Evelyn Madonia, General since. From the large strawberry

Manager, said, “The old dance floor was no longer large enough or slippery enough to accommodate the fast growing dance crowd.” A local Plant City company removed the old white onyx dance floor and replaced it with a new wood floor which rests on top of a carefully laid foundation of concrete. The finished floor is said to be “Night Club Smooth,” and is approximately 2 1/2 times larger than the old floor. On Monday evenings, the Ramada holds dance classes and Urban said there are currently about 20 – 30 people who attend. Then on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, the dance floor becomes a favorite attraction with those in the dining room and lounge because the

The new dance ﬂoor is 2.5 times larger than the old one

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 158

bands that appear nightly specialize in dance music. This is when the weekend crowd is ready to come in and “cut a rug.” People from all around the Plant City area, and many more from surrounding areas, come in for some good fun on the dance ﬂoor – a time to unwind with friends. It is estimated that there may be as many as 250 – 300 people on these nights, many drawn to the Ramada just for the dancing. When I asked Urban what kind of response they’re getting about the new dance ﬂoor, she said, “Everyone loves it. They’re so excited about the larger space. They have so much more room to move around, and that’s what you need when you’re dancing.”

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Graston Technique is a unique and non-invasive therapy that remarkably treats areas of “scar tissue” or adhesions in muscles, tendons and ligaments that cause pain, inﬂammation, loss of ﬂexibility, and dysfunction in the soft tissue and joints of the body.

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Graston technique is a new treatment that has been used in outpatient clinics starting in 1993 and has since gained international attention as clinical trials have found this technique to be highly effective in the treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, arthritic joints, neck and low back pain, Whiplash, Tennis and Golferʼs Elbow, Plantar Fascitis, frozen or painful shoulders, and more. Most patients treated with Graston report considerable pain relief within the ﬁrst two treatments. This therapy usually only requires a few treatments and takes only minutes to complete. Graston is also very affordable regardless of whether you have insurance coverage and results are guaranteed. Although Graston Technique is a safe and non-invasive treatment, is not appropriate for every patient condition...that is why we provide all prospective patients with a complimentary consultation with Dr. Souther to discuss whether this treatment will help you get relief from your pain. Call to set up your complimentary consultation with Dr. Souther to learn more about Graston Therapy.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 159

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Composite FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 160

CY CMY

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Complete packages or facility only rental. Our facility provides the perfect atmosphere for Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, Class Reunions, Family Reunions, Office Parties, Service and Civic Club Functions. We are here to help you plan your event with as much or as little involvement as you desire. Magic Moments . . . Creating memories to last a lifetime! Catering available by Weddings by Catherine

813-986-1230 The area’s newest and finest wedding and banquet facility is located at 2207 MudLake Road in Plant City, Florida (west of the YMCA). Call today for your private viewing and to discuss the endless possibilities to make your special day a “Magic Moment”!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 161

D&E

MOVIE REVIEWS

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By Brandon Hyde the movie for you and your family. Rating: 4 stars

Invincible Rated PG Drama Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear, Elizabeth Banks, Kevin Conway

Barnyard: The Original Party Animals Rated PG Family and Children, Animation Starring: Kevin James, Courteney Cox Arquette, Sam Elliott, Danny Glover

A new comedy about the growing pains of life brings the cows home. This ﬁlm has many different aspects to it that make it a good ﬁlm for anyone of any age. There

are a few lines that may come across as “kiddy,” but, overall this is a good family ﬁlm. The voices are perfectly aligned with their characters and add just that much more to the movie. With some absolutely stunning visual effects, the ﬁlm can consume you and put you in this crazy, made-up world. Not quite to the level that Shrek and Madagascar are, however, if your kid enjoyed Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius (same writer), then this is

1803 JIM REDMAN PKWY. ��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 162

In South Philly in the 1970’s, life was bleak and little opportunity presented itself. America was moving away from the manufacturing economy to one that produced goods instead of ideas. For Vince

Papale, this was his life’s story. He never could get ahead, until the Eagles held a special tryout. Based on this amazing true story, Vince (Mark Wahlberg) portrays a broken man that still believed in himself when only a few people did. A great football story for all of you sports nuts out there. There are some great action shots and some very interesting dialogue between Wahlberg and Kinnear. However, there are a couple of areas in which this movie lacks. Predictibility is one of them. We know what is going to happen. That’s the nature of a feel-good sports story. At some points, there are some “overdramatics” that come into the

scenes. However, with some of the utterly dissapointing movies that are out right now, this one exceeds expectations. Rating: 4 stars

Abigail Breslin, Steve Carell

Touted as one of the best movies of the year, Little Miss Sunshine has the name to lure viewers in. Even reading the synopsis of this film ignites a fire to see this comedy. Some very original and imaginative ideas are presented in the plot alone. On plot alone, this film could win many awards. Yet, a motion picture cannot win awards on ideas alone, they have to be played out. That’s where this film

Crank

Rated R Action and Adventure, Crime and Mystery Starring: Jason Statham, Amy Smart, Jose Pablo Cantillo, Efren Ramirez

Not enough things could be said about this movie, good or bad. From the very beginning, this is an awesome action movie. CoDirected by Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor, they form a solid ﬂow of the movie between some stand still shots, and cut shots that break up the monotony of the scene. However, and this is a big however, it is almost impossible to enjoy this movie while listening to every other word be a curse word. After just a few minutes, your ears start to burn and you begin looking around to see if anyone else is hearing what you are. Not to mention,

drops out of the running. The ideas of a smack-addicted grandfather are taken way too far. There is the token gay guy who has the funny accent and prances around. Not nearly enough funny material to invoke laugh after laugh in good natured human beings is presented. This must be said, however: there are points in this ﬁlm you can get lost in it. You are thoroughly enjoying it. The moment does pass, but it does have those moments. Rating: 3 1/2 stars

it is also ﬂooded with violence, drugs and sexuality. However, the camera angles and acting are great. But, my question to the writers is this: Why ruin a perfectly well made movie with unnecessary obscenities? Rating 1 1/2 stars

Little Miss Sunshine

Rated R Comedy Starring: Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette,

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 163

D&E

DINING REVIEW

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

Alexander’s Café

CRITICAL INFO

PLANT CITY’S BEST KEPT SECRET

Lunch and dinner, however, have several more options. There is a sandwich bar, salad bar, hot dogs and hamburgers daily. Then the final bar is where the hot meals are served that change daily. There are always three entrees, two vegetables, two starches, one soup, breads, and a dessert to choose from. The most common order is to select an entrée and two sides for $2.50, no matter what you select. The day that I dined in for lunch had a Hawaiian/Polynesian theme to it. The three entrées included Polynesian meatballs, pineapple chicken and Southwest BBQ egg rolls. The sides I selected were green beans that were accented with artichokes, and Caribbean rice. I then decided to splurge and indulge in some peach cobbler. I was absolutely floored. The food was amazing, better than if I had cooked it myself at home. Lunch and dinner offer an entree with two sides for $2.50

hen discussing with your coworkers which restaurant will be the selected choice of the day for lunch, for some reason the hospital just never comes to mind. However, after reading this article, you may ﬁnd it on your palette of choices in the future. Inside South Florida Baptist Hospital is a cafeteria-style restaurant called Alexander’s Café. Not only is the food exceptional, but it is safe to say that the prices are unbeatable. The hospital uses the restaurant as a courtesy to its staff and the families of the patients to eat a delicious well-cooked meal at the price it would cost to cook it themselves. However, the restaurant is also open for the pubic to enjoy, too, if they so desire. Alexander’s Café is open every day and serves three meals a day. John Belcher, Manager of Food and

Nutrition, and Michael Ambrosino, Executive Chef, have been there since the restaurant was revamped nearly six years ago. John has over 50 years experience in culinary arts and Michael has been cooking since he was 13. He has owned his own restaurant and worked in several hotels. With their combined expertise, Alexander’s Café always has several items available to satisfy every type of taste bud. They are not the only ones with experience, though. Three of the cooks have been cooking at the hospital for over thirty years: Ida Hilary, Betty Rehming, and Amelia Harris.

The menu is constantly changing. At the beginning of the week, you can pick up a menu that will tell you the items available that week. Each day has its own theme, whether it’s Italian, Mexican, Oriental, Southern or anything else you may think of. Every other Sunday Alexander’s Café offers a Sunday brunch that is unbelievable. You can still order it cafeteria style, but you also have the option of having

ALEXANDER’S CAFÉ 301 N. Alexander St 813-757-1201 Breakfast 7-9:30 a.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Dinner 4:30-6:30 p.m. Visa and Master Card Accepted all-you-can-eat for $12.95. The menu includes items such as crab legs, shrimp and prime rib. Believe it or not, there is another way to have these fabulous chefs create you the ideal meal. They also offer a catering service called “911 Catering” because most people wait until the last minute to call. Michael cooks all of the food himself and can serve anywhere from ten to hundreds. Their catering services are top notch and are frequently used by many people and organizations in Plant City and the surrounding areas. It may seem out of the ordinary to walk through the halls of a hospital to arrive at your lunch destination, but you should at least try Alexander’s one time, for any meal. I promise you will be impressed.

Breakfast offers your standard breakfast fare from eggs to mufﬁns to fruit. All meals are charged on a per item price. For example, breakfast that included toast (15¢), eggs (50¢), grits (35¢) and bacon (25¢) would cost $1.25. John Belcher and Michael Ambrosino work hard to put a brand new menu out daily

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 164

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 165

D&E

DINING GUIDE

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM ABC Pizza 114 N Alexander St 752-5146 Alexander’s Café at S FL Baptist Hospital 301 N. Alexander St. 757-8451 Anna’s Restaurant 3410 Baker St W 754-6215 Apple Tree 2218 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-8109 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar 1204 Townsgate Ct 719-1500 Arby’s Roast Beef Restaurant 1909 Frontage Rd S 719-3321 Arby’s Roast Beef Restaurant 201 Alexander St W 754-4881 Baker St. Café 1801 W Baker St (Hwy 92 W) 717-9785 Beef O’Brady’s Sports Pub 2418 Jas Redman Pkwy 757-0300 Bobs Sports Grill 226 Alexander St W. 719-8187 Bogey’s Restaurant 2001 Clubhouse Dr 752-1171 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 Collins Street Restaurant

712 S Collins 752-0126 Chancy’s Catﬁsh Shack 2509 N Park Rd 754-3433 Checker’s 2405 Jas Redman Pkwy 759-0151 CiCi’s Pizza 211 Alexander St W 659-3400 China King Restaurant 2410 James Redman Pkwy 754-8098 China One 1862 James Redman Pkwy 707-8898 China Palace 1106 Collins St S 754-0990 Church’s Fried Chicken 106 E. Reynolds 754-5200 Courtyard 106 E. Reynolds Street 754-0990 Curbita Inc. (Only speaks Spanish) 4109 State Rd 574 754-0620 Dairy Queen 1902 W Reynolds 752-2236 Denny’s Restaurant 2001 Frontage Rd S 752-3338 Domino’s Pizza 202 Alexander St W 759-9424 El Buen Gusto Michaocano 3414 Baker St W 759-6635

El Rincon Mexicano 4109 State Rd 574 754-0620 Fred’s Market Restaurant 1401 W Dr MLK Blvd 752-7763 Frontage Sports Bar & Grill Days Inn 1301 S Frontage Rd 752-0570 exit 168 & 169 Grandpa Johnsons BBQ 1305 Dr MLK Jr Blvd 759-0009 Heavenly Sinsations Inc. 1803 Jas Redman Pkwy 717-7512 Hong Kong Buﬀet 213 Alexander St W 764-8255 Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs 208 N Alexander St 752-6113 Hungry Howie’s - #200 2424 Hwy 92 E 764-0363

Long John Silver’s Seafood Shoppe 1805 Jas Redman Pkwy 752-1717 Manatee Bay Café 119 S. Collins S 707-1450 Maryland Fried Chicken 315 N Alexander 752-9200 Norma’s Ybor City Cuban Shop 1305 Baker St E 754-6557 Orange Blossom Tea Room 106 Evers St S 759-2247 Outback Steakhouse 1203 Townsgate Ct 759-4329 Papa John’s Pizza 1829 Jas Redman Pkwy 719-7300 Pesos Mexican Restaurant 2006 Reynolds St W 752-8841

Snellgrove’s Restaurant 109 S Collins 752-3652 Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q 1102 Goldﬁnch Dr 757-3118 Strawberry Hut Sandwich Shoppe 1505 Wheeler St N 752-3779 Strawberry Paradise 4511 James L. Redman Parkway (813) 737-3866 Subway 2305 Thonotosassa Rd 754-4550 Subway 2403 James Redman Pkwy 754-4878 Subway 2209 N Park Rd 659-0288 Taco Loco Restaurant 14672 Dr MLK Blvd 659-0916

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

Pizza Hut 2316 James Redman Pkwy 752-8222

Kazbor’s Grille 2212 James Redman Pkwy 752-2700

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

Kentucky Fried Chicken 2305 Collins St S 752-0437

Ponderosa Steak House 1914 Jim Redman Pkwy 754-1129

La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant 113 Prosser Dr W 659-3940

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

Westshore Pizza 1701 S Alexander St 754-5600

Linda’s Crab Shack 202 Reynolds E 754-0492

Quiznos 1818 James Redman Pkwy 719-2999

Whistle Stop Café 102 S Collins 752-7340

Lin’s Express 2307 Thonotosassa Rd 719-6066

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

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

El Mirasol Bakery Cafeteria 1419 Collins St S 752-2108

Tim’s Café 10903 Lithia Pinecrest Rd 737-4026 Twistee Treat 2301 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-9303 Waﬄe House 1201 Townsgate Ct 707-0190

Call the FOCUS Sales Department to advertise on this page ��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 166

813.707.8783

Visit our web site: www.feltonsmarket.com

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

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 167

D&E

EVENT CALENDAR

SEND COMMENTS TO K TONEY@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

September 15 to 20, Friday to Wednesday Registration for Start Smart Sports Development, a National Alliance for Youth Sports Program. Space is limited, so register at the Planteen Recreation Center at 301 Dort Street in Plant City. For more info, call Deborah Haldane at (813) 757-9166. September 15, Friday Teen Night will be held at the Planteen Recreation Center at 301 Dort Street in Plant City. Pizza, music and safe fun with friends ages 12-15 are offered, from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. The cost is $5 per person. For more info, contact Chris Washburn at (813) 757-9166. September 16, Saturday The Strawberry Classic Car Show will be held in Historic Downtown Plant City, beginning at 4 p.m. Unity in the Community will be having the 2006 Jamboree at the 1914 High School beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 and $15 reserved. Never Fade Bluegrass Gospel will be performing, along with The Gee Daddy’s (50’s & 60’s) and The Exxum Sisters (Old Time Harmony). For more info call 813752-1275. September 19, Tuesday The Bill Heard Chevrolet and Harold’s Outdoors Products ﬁshing seminar will be held at Bill Heard Chevrolet on Park Road, beginning at 6:45 p.m. Call Chris Prevat at (813) 359-5018 for more info.

chickens and eggs will be available for sale to the public. For more info, contact 12-year-old Yancey Ray, nursery owner, at (813) 986-4964.

out is available! Call Alise Sollenberger at (813) 659-3397 for more information.

The Plant City Recreation & Parks Department will hold a Kid’s Fishing Derby & Casting Contest at the pond off Albertson’s Drive behind the Randy Larson Four-Plex. Early registration is available up to September 21 at the Recreation & Parks offices at the Plant City Stadium Complex at 1904 South Park Road. There will also be on-site registration available at 8 a.m. the day of the event. Participants ages 6 to 15 will fish from 8:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. They will be competing for prizes in the following categories: first Bass caught, most fish caught and largest fish by weight. In the casting contest, a prize will be awarded to the participant that hits a bull’s eye. For more info, contact Steve Rossiter at (813) 659-4255.

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will be drawing the winning ticket for the 2006 Harley-Davidson DYNA Wide Glide motorcycle. The drawing will take place in historic downtown Plant City at the 4th Annual Bike Fest, beginning at 5 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Unity in the Community Pediatric Prescription Fund and the United Food Bank & Service of Plant City. Tickets are $20 each or buy five at once get the sixth one free! Tickets are available from Chamber Ambassadors, Board Members and at the Chamber Office at 106 North Evers Street in Plant City.

Kid’s Night Out will be held at the Planteen Recreation Center (301 Dort Street, Plant City) from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., and includes pizza, arts & crafts, movies and a fun time with their peers. The cost is $5 per child. For more info, contact Chris Washburn at (813) 757-9166. September 25 to 30, Monday to Saturday Care Fest 2006 will span this entire week. For more info on this wonderful community event, call Norm Blanton at (813) 752-4671. September 26, Wednesday

Plant City Children’s Theatre Teen Dance Hip-Hop Clinic will take place at Plant City Children’s Theatre, located at 507 North Wheeler Street. Call (813) 752-1683 for more info.

The Most Holy Mother of God Orthodox Catholic Church in Dover at 3820 Moores Lake Road invites you to attend their new parenting support group to be held the last Tuesday of each month. From 7-9 p.m. they will focus on general parenting, including ﬁrst aid and safety for parents. Come with new ideas and your topics of concerns. For more info please call (813) 659-0123.

September 21, Thursday

September 28, Thursday

This month’s Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours will be held at the Tile Barn at 1103 Goldﬁnch Drive (behind Buddy Freddy’s). The free and open to the public event will begin at 5:15 p.m. Call the Chamber ofﬁce at (813) 754-3707 to RSVP.

The 10th Anniversary Celebration of Diamonds & Denim will be held this year in the brand new Expo Building on the Strawberry Festival Grounds. There will be a live band, silent auction and plenty of food available. This event beneﬁts the South Florida Baptist Hospital Parish Nurse Program, Wellness on Wheels and Children’s Health Fair, among others. For more information, contact Judy Martin at (813) 757-1277.

September 20, Wednesday

There will be a Republican Party “Meet & Greet the Candidates” at the Ramada Inn, sponsored by the Plant City Federation of Republican Women. For more info, call Judy Whitson at (813) 436-6815 September 22 and 23, Friday and Saturday The Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library will present a Mystery Dinner Theater featuring the Mild Mild West. This will be presented at Magic Moments Hall & Gardens at 2207 Mud Lake Road. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. followed by the show performed by the Bruton Memorial Players. The cost of this event is $35 per person. Tickets are available at Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan and at the Holiday Inn Express on Park Road. For more info, contact Hal Brewer at (813) 752-4949 or Pat Eiﬂer at (813) 267-0593. September 23, Saturday Grand opening of Little Man’s Nursery from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. Plants, trees,

September 29 to October 1, Friday to Sunday The Strawberry Jam Youth Girl’s Fast Pitch Tournament will be held at the Plant City Randy Larson Four-plex and Stadium, beginning at 10 a.m. September 29, Friday Teen Night will be held at the Planteen Recreation Center at 301 Dort Street in Plant City. Pizza, music and safe fun with friends ages 12-15 are offered, from 7:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. The cost is $5.00 per person. For more information, contact Chris Washburn at (813) 757-9166.

October 7, Saturday

South Florida Baptist Hospital will hold a Health Fair at the Arthur Boring Building on the Strawberry Festival grounds, running from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call Sarah Raines at (813) 757-8511 for more info. The Durant Marching Band will be hosting the West Coast Invitational at Durant’s football stadium. The invitational begins at 2 p.m. Marching bands from all over Florida will be competing. Tickets are $10 and $6. Come out and support the band members as they raise money to play in the Fiesta Bowl. For more info, contact Durant High School at 813-757-9075.

October 16, Monday The Junior Women’s club of Plant City will be hosting the annual Kid’s Karnival at the Plant City Train Depot from 4-8 p.m. There will be games and activities galore, such as a jumping tent, face painting, musical entertainment, and chances to win prizes! Spirit FM will be the DJ for the evening. Dinner is available for purchase and all funds raised beneﬁt the club’s annual show project. For more info contact Michelle Wegner at 659-1626. ONGOING Mondays The Ramada Inn is offering dance lessons from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Red Rose Dining Room. The cost is $10 per session. For more info, contact Susan Stanton at (863) 604-5060. Tuesdays and Wednesdays Free Time Jazz will be appearing at the Red Rose Dining Room at the Ramada Inn Plantation House, beginning at 7 p.m. Call (813) 752-3141 for more info.

October 11, Wednesday

Thursdays and Fridays

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will hold their Contact Breakfast at the Ramada Inn at 7:30 a.m. The speaker will be Steve Mercer of the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Call the Chamber Ofﬁce at (813) 754-3707 to RSVP.

Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will be performing this evening at the Ramada Inn Plantation House. Call (813) 752-3141 for more info.

October 13, Friday The Plant City Lions Club will hold a golf tournament at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. For more info and to sign up, call Jodi Smith at (813) 754-3707.

The Strawberry Singles Club has dances from 8 p.m. until midnight on Fridays at the Stardust Dance Center at 1405 South Collins Street. The cost is $5 for members or $7 for non-members. Call (813) 752-9277 or (813) 759-2063 for more info.

October 13-14, Friday-Saturday

Saturdays

On Saturday, Somebody Cares Tampa Bay and Shiloh Baptist Association will be featuring Dr. Henry Blackaby at the Spiritual Leadership Conference that will be held at First Baptist Church of Plant City. His son, Dr. Richard Blackaby, will also be speaking. Friday morning will be a business breakfast at the Ramada Inn where Blackaby will speak on “Integrity in the Workplace.” Tickets for the breakfast are $12.50 in advance or $15 at the door. Call 813-752-6740 for more information.

The Rat Pack Too, the Signature Group of the Red Rose Dining Room, will be performing from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. at the Ramada Inn Plantation House. Opening for the Rat Pack Too will be Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room. Call (813) 752-3141 for more info.

October 14, Saturday Historic Downtown Plant City Merchants & Business Association is hosting the ﬁrst of six monthly Antique Street Fair Sales, from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the corner of East Reynolds Street and Palmer Street. For more info, call (813) 717-7731, David Shultz at (813) 752-6085 or e-mail pcdowntown99@aol.com.

October 5, Thursday

There will be an Econoline Show & Swap Meet beginning at 8 a.m. and running until 4p.m. at the Union Station Welcome Center. Call the Chamber at (813) 754-3707 for more info.

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City will hold a spaghetti dinner at the Club’s location, 1110 North Wheeler Street. Take-

The auction for Kimball Wetherington’s 23 parcels of land, totaling to 640 acres in Eastern Hillsborough County will be held at the

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 168

Ramada Inn in the convention room. For more information, contact Earl Williams at Higgenbotham Auctioneers at 800-2574161 or visit www.Higgenbotham.com

Fridays

To all organizations, churches, clubs, sports teams, lounges, businesses: If you would like your happening or event to be listed in this column, please e-mail to: ktoney@ﬂoydpublications.com,

or fax it to 813-764-0990, Attn: Kristen – Event Calendar.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 169

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Kids Eat Free Every Monday 4pm to Close

HOME COOKED MEALS ALWAYS PREPARED FRESH Mon - Thurs: 6am - 8pm Fri - Sat: 6am - 9pm • Sun: 7am - 2pm Baby Back Plate Early Birds 2 Dine For $11.99 Mon-Sat 2-6pm N

NOW OPEN ON SUNDAYS 109 South Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563

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Alexander

J. Redman Parkway

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Drive-Thru All-U-Can-Eat Salad Bar

�� Entree

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w/purchase of beverage

Full Rack

Buy 1 Entree with 2 Drinks, Get The 2nd 1/2 Off

Any Family Feast

Any Purchase Of $50 Or More

Baby Back Ribs Dinner Includes 2 Sides & Garlic Toast

203 W. Alexander Plant City • 813-754-3229

(Lunch or Dinner)

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers Offer Expires 10/15/06

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�� BREAKFAST

4” BREAKFAST SANDWICHES....$1.99 SERVED ON A BISCUIT OR CUBAN BREAD

Ham, Egg & Chesse Sausage, Egg & Cheese Bacon, Egg & Cheese Cuban Toast....50¢ Biscuits & Gravy Lg...$2.19 - Sm...$1.59

PARTY PLATTERS

Giraldoʼs Cuban Platter Includes 8 Cubans cut in 2” pieces and 20 Mini Stuffed Potatoes...$35.99 Mini Devil Crab Platter 30 crabs...$29.99 60 Crabs...$54.99 Mini Stuffed Potato Platter 30 Potatoes...$10.99 60 Potatoes...$19.99

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 170

SANDWICHES...$3.99

All Sandwiches are 7” and served pressed on Cuban Bread

DAILY SPECIAL

4” Sub of Choice & sm. Black Beans & Rice or sm. Spanish Bean Soup & 24oz Soda $5.45

GIRLADOʼS ORIGINAL CUBAN Ham, Cuban, Pork, Salami & Swiss Cheese Pickle, Mayo & Mustard

Ham & Cheese, Turkey & Cheese, Roastbeef & Cheese & Meatball & Cheese Toppings Available: Lettuce, Tomato, Pickle, Onion, Banana Peppers, Salt & Pepper, Oil & Vinegar

OTHER FAVORITES

Black Beans & Rice - Reg...$1.99 Lg...$2.49 Spanish Bean Soup - Reg...$2.49 Lg...$2.99 Devil Crab...$1.49 Beef Stuffed Potato...$1.49 Pepperoni Pizza Sticks...$1.19 Corn Dogs...$1.29 Chicken Tenders...(1) $1.25 or (6) $6.99 Cheese Stix...(6) $3.49 Jalepeno Poppers...(6) $3.95 Fried Okra...$1.99 Homemade Brownies...99¢ Chicken & Yellow Rice - Reg...$1.99 Lg...$2.49

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Mon - Fri Only with Tea or Coffee Breakfast Only

Bike Rally Saturday, July 22 5pm-10pm

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11 am - 2 pm with Tea or Coffee Mon - Fri Only

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Between 2 - 4pm Early Bird Special Mon - Fri - Only Tea or Coffee

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Every Day!

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Southern Home Cooking 712 S. Collins Street Plant City, FL • 813.752.0126

New Hours: Fri & Sat 6am-10pm Sun 7am-8pm • Mon-Thurs 6am-8pm Saturday BBQ Buffet 4pm-10pm

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Animal Wellness Center ��

Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 5:30pm Try our convenient Drop Off service!

3109 SR 574 West (813) 752-2869

Dr. Jennifer Conner

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Frenchmanʼs Flea Market 106 E. Drane St. 754-8388 Mon-Sat 10am-5pm

Open till 9pm the First and third Saturday of each month for the

�� 109 W. REYNOLDS PLANT CITY, FL 33563

Kim A. Allen (813) 719-8922

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 171

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9/1/2006

1:30 PM

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You are here. So are we. W W W. S O U T H F L O R I D A B A P T I S T. C O M

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Outpatient Rehabilitation Center At Walden Lake Medical Arts Center 1601 W. Timberlane Drive, Suite 200 Plant City, FL 33566-0957 Phone: 813-707-9362 Fax: 813-757-9687

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 172

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 173

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 174

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • September 15 • 2006 - October 15 • 2006 PG 175