FOCUS PC 05-11 Nov 2006 by Floyd Publications

LOCAL • REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS • SPORTS • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT VOLUME 5 NUMBER 11 • NOVEMBER 15, 2006 - DECEMBER 15, 2006

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PLANT CITY EDITION

Linda SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

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HOLIDAY Gift Guide LOCAL STORIES / BUSINESS PROFILE / HEALTH / SPORTS DINING & ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS AND MORE

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 2

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 3

NOVEMBER 15 - DECEMBER 15, 2006

feature

44-48

sports

96 & 98

After a highly competitive season, the Plant City Raider Varsity Football team is proud to hold the title of District Champions. Read about everything they had to go through to get there. Not to mention, find out what has been keeping tons of Plant City families occupied at Mike Sansone Park.

business proﬁle Plant City Imaging

dining & entertainment

112-125

Certainly you have noticed the brand new pizza restaurant in town next to Southern Hospitality, Muchies. Our writer shares with you her experience when she spent an evening there for dinner. Also, the Red Rose Dining Room brought in special guests Bill Deal’s Rhondels to entertain the crowds. Find out what made the evening so entertaining.

112 ...........Dining Review 114 ...............Just for Fun 116 ...........Entertainment 118-119 ... Movie Reviews 120 ............ Dining Guide 124-125 ...Event Calendar

Photo by Sophia Dedon

The holiday season is upon us once again! It’s time to start thinking about what you will be buying your friends and family for Christmas. Focus magazine is giving you a head start by featuring select businesses that have great holiday ideas for you. From great gift certificate ideas to creative surprises, you will see that you don’t even have to leave Plant City to make all of your loved ones happy.

local

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Whether it was the selling of large properties in Plant City like Kimball Wetherington’s several hundred acres and Mike Sparkman’s successful company Sparky’s, or the generosity of residents like Matt Yarbrough who hosted the Dove Hunt to benefit homeless children, Focus keeps you up to date on what is going on in your community.

7 ...................... Talk of the Town 10 ..............................Chamber 14 ......................... Tell Your Tale 17 ................ Artist of the Month

spotlight

52-54

In light of the giving spirit that Christmas brings, Focus sat down with Linda Lawson of the United Food Bank to inform you of the wonderful things this organization does for families year round. She shares with us the humble beginnings of the food bank and what has brought it to today. Also find out how you can get involved to help increase the success of the United Food Bank.

HEALTH

100 ..................... Dr. Dunn 102 ............. Sherry Nuesch 104 ................Dr. Carrozella

HOME GUIDE

63 ... Cover-Blackburn Realty 76 ....... Walden Lake Review 78 ........... Real Estate Article

ON THE COVER FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 4

MAGAZINE 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 Shannon Davis sdavis@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, 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.

108 ................... Al Ruechel

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.

110 ..........................Travel

published by:

EXTRAS 106 ................ Auto Review

Linda Lawson, Executive Director of the United Food Bank and Services. See her story on page 52

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

letter FROM THE EDITOR

“Whether a biological family or an extended family of people attracted to each other based on heart resonance and mutual support, the word ‘family’ implies warmth, a place where the core feelings of the heart are nurtured.” Doc Childre and Howard Martin

Lately I can’t help but just shake my head when I watch the evening news or read a newspaper. With all the fighting and violence happening right now in the Middle East, all you hear about is terrorism, Al Qaeda, the Taliban, Iraqi insurgents, suicide bombers and so on. I really don’t understand people fighting each other over religious beliefs. And then, here in the U.S., we recently had some school and workplace shootings, one of them being at those poor Amish children’s schoolhouse, leaving five young girls dead and five more in either critical or serious condition. I can’t fathom any of my family members becoming a victim of any of these crazy people who are committing these crimes, but they are most certainly members of somebody’s family...which gets me to pondering... We are fast approaching that time of the year, the holiday season, with Thanksgiving almost here, and, of course, Christmas, the very best holiday of all, just around the corner. I know that along with the holidays comes stress for many people, myself included, with the hustle and bustle of planning, buying gifts, decorating, cooking. The stores are already filling with Christmas decorations, and it’s not even Thanksgiving yet! It becomes very easy to get caught up in the commercialism of Christmas and lose sight of the “real reason for the season.” This Christmas season I would like to try to get back to a more traditional celebration; bake cookies with my grandchildren, hand-make some gifts, attend special church services with my whole family. But most of all, I would like to start a family tradition that I read about somewhere where you put an envelope on your tree or an empty box under it and every time you do something nice for someone you write it down and put it in the envelope/box. Jesus said that when we do a kindness for someone else, it’s the same as doing it for Him. The envelope/box would be Jesus’ birthday present and hopefully would be full of kind deeds by Christmas. These are the kinds of things that make lifelong memories and help ensure that you and your loved ones get the greatest gift of all – the gift of time spent with each other. In our local section this month, we have stories of people and organizations who give freely of themselves in order to benefit their fellow man, such as the Dove Hunt for “Stand Up For Kids” and the Plant City Garden Club’s Garden Tour. Those proceeds provide a scholarship to a PCHS student. Our spotlight interview is with Linda Lawson, Executive Director of the United Food Bank and Services of Plant City. She’s dedicated her life to helping the needy by feeding the hungry, providing job referrals and many times, just lending an ear to see how she and her organization can help the neediest among us. We hope you and yours have a Happy Thanksgiving, and as always, we thank you for your readership and support.

Linda Floyd

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 6

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ongratulations to Nathan A. Kilton, CPA, MBA who was selected by the Tampa Bay Business Journal as part of the 30 under 30 Class of 2006. More than 100 young professionals were nominated and are selected as the brightest rising starts in Tampa Bay.

The Miss Heart of Plant City Scholarship Pageant recently was taken over by Roxanne Fulwood, who is very excited about making several changes to make this a prestigious pageant for the local girls, preparing them to compete in the Miss Florida competition. There will be a Little Miss, Junior Miss, Teen Miss, and Miss

Heart of Plant City. Sign-ups are December 2 at the Ramada Plantation House and photos will be taken of each contestant. Applications can be picked up

of the

town

at the Tip to Toe Nail Salon and My Girlfriend’s Place. Preparations are already underway for the pageant on February 17. Thank you so much to the teens of the Plant City Family YMCA Leaders Club who cleaned up the grafﬁti seen on buildings, fences, and community spaces around Plant City on October 28. A grateful thank you is also extended to the team of volunteers from the CF Industries who applied a fresh coat of paint to the YMCA’s hallways and several other rooms on October 18. The

workday was part of the United Way Day of Caring, a national program that brings together workplaces, employees, unions, community groups, and agencies to work on-site at community projects.

It was a very exciting time in Plant City when we were honored to have the Vietnam Wall come make its way through our town. Thanks to Mark Yarbrough for providing us this photo showing the wall coming down Turkey Creek Road. We also extend our gratitude to the Board of Directors of the Plant City Boys and Girls Club, as well as the 10 offduty Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputies, who volunteered their time to paint the outside of the Boys & Girls Club located at 901 South Waller Street. They also replaced the old sign, making a huge improvement to the outside appearance of the building.

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.

Plant City Children’s Theatre presents

The Nutcracker TOMLIN MIDDLE SCHOOL Saturday, December 9th, 11:00am and 2:30pm $6 paid in advance • $10 at door Tickets at Plant City Children’s Theatre, 507 N Wheeler & Hardee’s Fashions, 1501 N. Wheeler • 752-1621 FREE ATTENDANCE FOR ALL HANDICAPPED, CHILDREN’S HOMES AND NURSING HOMES ��

SILENT AUCTION 9am - 4pm Over 150 Baskets and Trips including Disney, Universal, Busch Gardens, Yankees Luncheon, Outback Bowl *Nutcracker attendance not required for auction

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 7

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Story by Daniel Sperry Photos courtesy of Matt Yarbrough

Plant City Hunters Help Homeless Children DOVE HUNT RAISES MONEY FOR STANDUP FOR KIDS

are so afraid. StandUp For Kids talks with business owners as well as adult homeless in the city to find children in need. When they find the kids, they help them with food and finishing their education. Yarbrough said that he could have picked any charity to support and do the hunt. “But I just really liked what StandUp For Kids was doing right here in the Tampa area.”

Robert Showalter, Mike Gallant, Elton Brewer, Matt Yarbrough, Mark, Franky and Melissa Yates

ore than 50 men dressed in camouflage milled around the orange grove. Various dogs ran through the trees barking and chasing each other. The smoker was fired up, and the smell of food filled the air. What does this have to do with homeless children? Matt Yarbrough had an explanation. “I wanted to do something for charity,” said Yarbrough. “I found StandUp For Kids on the Internet and when I realized what they were doing, I knew I wanted to help them out.” So Yarbrough began getting in touch with people. A friend volunteered to let him use the orange grove. Other hunters were excited about doing something they love and having their efforts help a good

cause. Thus the first Dove Hunt for charity was born. Mike Gallant is the Director of Operations for StandUp For Kids in Florida. The organization strives to help homeless children throughout the country. According to Gallant, there are an estimated 1.3 million homeless children nationwide. “They are a seriously overlooked group of the homeless,” said Gallant. “People don’t like to think about kids being on the streets.” StandUp For Kids has been in the Tampa area for about a year and a half and they are already making progress. Gallant says that they make contact with five to ten children each week. Homeless children are difficult to locate because they

Phil Devore with Chesagrove Kennels and his champion retriever “Beau” put on a great demonstration FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 8

It’s all about the kids!!

He organized a Labrador Retrieving demonstration prior to the hunt, which showcased several different dogs’ retrieving techniques. The demonstration also offered tips to hunters on how to train their dogs to better function during a hunt. After the food was served, Yarbrough presented StandUp For Kids with a check for $7,500. “It’s so great to have regular people come together to help with a cause like this,” said Yarbrough. Gallant said that as a 501c nonproﬁt organization, StandUp For Kids is totally reliant on donations and volunteers in order to stay functioning. “We are not supported by the government,” he said. According to their website, standupforkids.org, 27% of the homeless population is children and they make up the fastest growing

segment of the homeless. A third of them have witnessed a stabbing, shooting, rape or murder; and 36% of them have been on the streets for more than three years. “The majority of these kids aren’t bad,” said Gallant. “Most of them have been the victims of physical or sexual abuse, which put them on the streets. 5,000 die each year and we want to make a difference and save some lives.” Yarbrough agrees and it was clear he was proud of his fellow hunters for their willingness to pay $150 per ticket for the hunt in support of StandUp For Kids. Yarbrough was touched by an unexpected framed certiﬁcate of appreciation he received for his efforts. The Dove Hunt was a huge success, the hunters had a great afternoon in the ﬁelds, and enough money was raised to provide a great deal of food and support for Tampa Bay area homeless children. “I couldn’t be any happier,” said Yarbrough after the hunt. “Our second hunt is November 18th and should be just as good.” StandUp For Kids is located at 7320 East Fletcher Avenue, Suite 107 in Tampa, and they are always in need of volunteers and support of any kind.

A special thanks to Rick’s Custom Meats and Grandpa Johnson’s for supplying all the food for this event

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 9

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

Chamber of Commerce As the busy holiday season approaches, don’t forget to call the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce office (813754-3707) to have your organization’s event placed on the COMMUNITY CALENDAR. By doing so, you can determine if your date conflicts with other organizations, while at the same time it gets your event “on the book” so others know about it. ★★★★★★★★★★ Speaking of the Chamber, in addition to some of the more visible responsibilities, such as organizing and planning events and activities and communicating with our members, which by the way now total 726, the Chamber staff responds to inquiries made by telephone, mail and visitors to the Chamber offices at 106 North Evers Street. You may find the following statistics interesting. The figures shown are for six months, January 1 through June 30, 2006: Business Phone Calls ......................2,564 “U” Pick Farm Referrals ....................930 Phone Calls for directions & other information ......................................3,137 New Resident Phone Calls & Relocation Packages ............................................. 458 Tourist Inquires ................................1,605 New Business Relocation Packages .. 125 Walk In Visitors ...............................3,603 Strawberry Festival Phone Calls .....2,048 Demographic Packages ........................ 41 General E-Mails .................................960 Referrals of Chamber Members ......1,231 Strawberry Festival E-Mails .............. 479 As you can see from the figures above, the Chamber staff keeps busy! ★★★★★★★★★★ DON’T FORGET THE 4TH ANNUAL PIG JAM, WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 AT THE RANDY LARSON FOUR-PLEX, 1900 SOUTH PARK ROAD/1401 ALBERTSON’S DRIVE IN PLANT CITY. THIS IS A GREAT FAMILY EVENT AND IS SANCTIONED BY THE KANSAS CITY BARBEQUE SOCIETY. THE EVENT STARTS AT 10 A.M. AND GOES TO 5 P.M. ★★★★★★★★★★ Did you know that Plant City has a HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Chapter? It’s true. Right here in our backyard, the Plant City Chapter is getting ready to start two more homes for deserving families.

Habitat is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian organization dedicated to eliminating sub-standard housing right here in Plant City. Habitat believes that every person has the right to decent shelter. They build homes for qualified applicants regardless of their religious beliefs and they welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds. Habitat International is the parent organization for all of the affiliates in the world. They have a presence in over 85 countries and have built over 250,000 homes to date. There are over 65 affiliates in Florida alone and we have one right here in Plant City. Want to get involved? No matter what your talent, Habitat can use you! You can help with paperwork, food, publicity, construction, photography, phone calls, special events, and the list goes on. Call the Plant City Chapter at 813-717-7946 for information. You can also log onto their web site at www.pchabitat4hu@yahoo. com.

of Paradise: The Visual Mythology of Florida as Eden.”

Dec. 2 - Bike Fest in downtown Plant City. Starts at 5 p.m.

The Library is located at 302 McLendon Street. For additional information, call the Library at 813-757-9215.

Dec. 7 - East Hillsborough Arts Guild presents “Fine Arts Display” at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club from 5 to 7 p.m.

All you ﬁsherman take note…on Tuesday, November 21, local celebrity Captain Greg McCullough, winner of the 2005 Mike Alstott Fishing Tournament, will be at Bill Heard Chevrolet, at Park and North Frontage Road in Plant City, to present a ﬁshing seminar sponsored by Harold’s Outdoor Products and Bill Heard Chevrolet. The seminar gets underway at 6:45 p.m. It’s free and in addition to the seminar, you will enjoy refreshments and prizes. For more information, call Chris Prevatt at 813-359-5018.

Dec. 9 - Antique Street Fair, downtown Plant City from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

★★★★★★★★★★

Dec. 9 - Florida Opry at 1914 Community Center. Call Myrle Henry at 752-4094 for details.

SOME DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR:

★★★★★★★★★★ Congratulations to Judy Martin, Executive Director of the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation and the DIAMONDS & DENIM COMMITTEE, which was chaired by Nancy Ross, for raising over $67,000 at their recent gala which was held in the new Expo building on the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds. This was their tenth annual event and the money raised will beneﬁt the South Florida Baptist Hospital Parish Nurse program, Wellness on Wheels and Children’s Health Fair. Mark your calendar for next year’s Diamonds & Denim gala, which will take place on Thursday, September 27, 2007. You will not want to miss this great event. ★★★★★★★★★★ The BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY is hosting a series to help us gain a new understanding of Florida’s evolution from tropical paradise to the land of urban sprawl and amusement parks. The series theme is “Right Before Our Eyes: Florida’s Changing Landscape in Fact, Fiction and Song,” and will feature history and humanities scholars who will share their unique perspectives on this issue that is crucial to everyone who cares about the future of our state. On Thursday, November 30 at 7 p.m., Mallory O’Conner will discuss “Perception

Nov. 18 – 4th Annual Pig Jam at Randy Larson Four-Plex. Starts at 10 a.m. Nov. 18 – Strawberry Classic Car show in downtown Plant City. Starts at 4 p.m. Nov. 21 - Fishing Seminar at Bill Heard Chevrolet. Starts at 6:45 p.m. Nov. 23 – Happy Thanksgiving (Chamber ofﬁce closed). Nov. 26 – Exotic bird show at Ammerman’s, 4902 Charlie Taylor Road, Plant City. Call 813-752-2230 for additional information. Nov. 30 – Lights of Love at McCall Park in downtown Plant City. Children’s photos with Santa at 5:30 p.m. Tree lighting takes place at 6:45 p.m. Nov. 30 – Downtown Plant City antique shops open till 8 p.m. Nov. 30 – Program at Bruton Memorial Library (see above). Program starts at 7 p.m. Dec. 1 - Plant City’s Annual Christmas Parade. Starts at 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 9 - 11th. Annual Nutcracker presentation presented by Plant City Children’s Theatre at Tomlin Middle School. Two performances: 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Call 813-752-1621 for additional information. Dec. 9 - Children’s Christmas Musical at the Wesley Centre “Angels Up High.” Starts at 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 – Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Contact Breakfast at Ramada Inn. Starts at 7:30 a.m. Call the Chamber 813754-3707 to RSVP. Dec. 15 - Christmas Community Concert at St. Clement Catholic Church. Starts at 8 p.m. Call Joyce Nestor at 813-493-1979 for information. Dec. 16 - Annual Mason Dixon Christmas Wish Car Show. Starts at 9 a.m. in McCall Park. Call Ed Cullins at 813-986-4720 for information. Dec. 16 - Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City. Starts at 4 p.m. Dec. 17 - First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir Christmas Concert, “Emmanuel…Celebrating Heaven’s Child.” Starts at 7 p.m. Call 813-7543519 for additional information. ON BEHALF OF THE ENTIRE GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, ITS MEMBERS AND STAFF, WE WANT TO WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING.

Dec. 1 - Garden Club’s Holiday Card & Game Party. Call Liz Miller at 813754-6659 for additional details and information.

SUPPORT OUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS. BUY THEIR PRODUCTS AND USE THEIR SERVICES. IT JUST MAKES SENSE! FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 10

��

�� 1204 N. FRONTAGE ROAD

JUST WEST OF PARK ROAD IN PLANT CITY Call For Appointment

813-927-1288 or 813-967-5352 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 11

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 12

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Story by Holly Mallalieu Photos courtesy of Melissa Hale

Teen Advisors

STUDENTS IMPACTING STUDENTS

oday more than ever, teenagers are getting pressure from every direction to take part in things that are in all ways unhealthy choices, but have been somehow, in this generation, given the right of passage into our culture and labeled as “okay.” You’ve heard it before; the problem with “today’s youth” is that they’re all a bunch of outof-control, beer-drinking, drugtaking, sex-having animals, right? Wrong. Mostly. Unfortunately, these problems are relatively high in our high schools-but there are so many people-teenagers themselves-working to ﬁght against them. Teen Advisors is a group of students who have gathered together around one common goal: to promote healthy lifestyles, free from pre-marital sex, drugs, alcohol, and inhalants. Each member of this club signs a contract agree-

ing to remain free of all of these things for one full year, but also to carry it through in the long run. This is Teen Advisor’s very ﬁrst year as a club at Plant City High School, and the response has been fantastic! 67 students signed the honor code to remain abstinent this year. From that day they have been expected to encourage and hold one another accountable to their commitments. They discuss, as a whole, relevant topics-from refusal skills, to healthy boundaries, to even modesty. The club has three main directors, all under the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City: Renee Jones, Prevention Services Director, Dana Landers, Teen Advisors Coordinator, and Melissa Hale, Abstinence Educator. The club speaks to many dif-

Teen Advisors Cynthia Hall, Ashley Nieves, Cadi Ruel, and Chelsea Hall

ferent churches, youth facilities and groups of parents. Its impact reaches out beyond just our hometown, and is a wonderful thing to

get involved with. What a perfect picture of teens stepping up and setting examples for their peers.

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Call or Visit the Plant City Office Today!

2303 Thonotosassa Rd Phone: 813-659-2165

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 13

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Story and Photos by Holly Mallalieu

The Gift of Love...

Great Guy to Have Around

JIM WATKINS HAS ALWAYS BEEN A PART OF PLANT CITY

E ��

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

veryone has a story. Some are more elaborate than others. Some are, let’s face it, not the most exciting ones to tell. But everyone’s is unique, interesting and very special in its way. Where they came from, what they’ve been through. It’s impossible to guess a person’s tale without talking with them. And because there are, of course, just a few too many people to converse with individually- (Plant City may be small-but not that small)-we’re doing our best to make our rounds around town and introduce those we can.

Meet Jim Watkins, a resident of Plant City since, well, forever. Jim is one of our born-and-raised here kind of people. He met his wife, Sally, a Plant City native, as well, through a friend in town and they were married. Jim says, and surely many parents will agree, that his hardest challenge and yet biggest accomplishment in life has been the raising of his family. The two now have three successful kids, all grown up. One in Tennessee, another in Clermont, and ﬁnally the youngest at a ﬁlm school in Hollywood, California.

the Historic District, and are very happy with it. He has a wonderful job as Sergeant for the Plant City Police Department, which he has been for the past 19 years. Jim attends the First Presbyterian Church. His position at the Police Department keeps him very busy, but on the side he is also a member of the Blue Knights. This is a law-enforcement motorcycle club, which was actually started by Chief McDaniel of the PCPD. Jim is very satisﬁed to stay in Plant City. We’re certainly glad he’s a part if this community, and, not to mention, appreciative of his work in helping keep it a great place.

In 2000 Jim and Sally moved into one of the houses in Jim Watkins does his part in keeping Plant City a great town as Sargeant for the Plant City Police Department FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 14

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Story by Daniel Sperry

Early Pioneers Invade Plant City HISTORICAL EVENT CAPTURES IMAGINATIONS

nyone who has had a longing for “the good ole days” found everything they could hope for at the annual Pioneer Day event at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center last month. On October 21st, history came alive as local historical groups came together to reenact what life was like for the early settlers in Florida. Plant City was nothing more than a dense wilderness a century ago, and the early settlers had to work hard to carve a niche for their homes and families. Survival depended on knowing how to work the land and tend to the livestock, and Pioneer Day’s goal was to demonstrate what that life was like. “Anyone who thinks that life was easier back then needs to come out

here and see the reality,” said Bess Martin, who was attending the event for the ﬁrst time this year. Walking through the event was a little bit like stepping back in time, as people dressed in period costumes roamed the area and mingled with the visitors. Several displays were set up where volunteers recreated the craft of early pioneer trades-people. The H.B. Plant Railroad Society set up several scale model train displays, which were a huge hit among the young and the young at heart. Heritage crafts were being sold, along with antiques and country style food, prepared the old-fashioned way. “This was great,” said Tim Jones, who brought his two boys to the

Gowns worn by Strawberry Festival Queens dating back to 1930 were on display in the Frances Hull Room for Pioneer Days

event. “It really shows you what things were like back then.” Turnout was very good on what ended up being a beautiful Saturday. One vendor said that she has never had so

many people stop at her display. “I don’t really care much about selling anything,” she said. “I just love talking with the people and sharing my knowledge of history.”

2005 Finalist SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Brandon Chamber

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 15

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Story by Debbie Siebenthal

Don’t Shop ‘Til You Drop AND THEN PACK OUT OF WHACK

e spend countless hours shopping for the perfect gift for our loved ones. With all the time and effort put into finding the right present, it’s important that proper attention be given to packing. Spending a little extra money and time up front will help ensure your packages arrive intact. Packages go through many hands and miles of conveyor belts before reaching their final destination. Packages are usually loaded onto a truck, enduring all the bumps of the road. They are typically sorted by zip code zones, then size, with the largest packages going on the bottom. The boxes are stacked high, putting additional weight on bottom packages. Make sure your package doesn’t rattle. Rattling means there’s extra room in the box and your item will roll or your box may collapse. You don’t want anything to shift in your box. This will prevent larger items in your box from crushing smaller items. Always use a sturdy box and don’t wrap it in brown paper. The paper may get caught on a conveyor belt and rip off your box. As far as cushioning, some items are fragile and need more protection. A good rule of thumb is two inches of cushioning around fragile items. This cushioning needs to be material like bubble wrap or peanuts. Fragile items should be away from the sides and other items in your box, or you may want to ship fragile items separate. Newspaper is a poor shipping material, as it crushes and does not absorb compression and vibration, like packing peanuts. Some carriers can’t ship alcohol, tobacco, firearms or anything flammable. Some carriers will not ship anything in an alcohol, tobacco or hazardous labeled box, regardless of what is in the box. Hazardous labels include bleach and ORM-D.

When shopping for your gifts, keep in mind that the necessary extra packing often increases the size of your shipping box. Shipping prices vary and are often determined by size, weight and destination. Each carrier has their own guideline as far as weight and size limitations. Most carriers double their daily volume during the holidays. Carriers are committed to delivering packages with speed and accuracy, so when possible, ship early. Mondays are the busiest shipping days. When shipping to someone in the military who is overseas, it is recommended that you ship those items in November. For those last minute shoppers, most carriers offer 2nd day and next day delivery for domestic packages until December 22. For more peace of mind, carriers offer insurance. Some automatically insure packages up to a certain value, with additional insurance available. Usually, the insurance is for loss or replacement value and not all items are insurable. You should check the rules of your carrier. If a package is not sufﬁciently packed, a claim may be denied. Therefore, it’s important to spend the extra time on proper packing.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 16

Tracking is a feature offered by most carriers. Some offer it standard and some add it for a fee. Packages can be tracked online, allowing you to see when it was delivered and who accepted it, if it was signed for. Signature required is an additional feature offered by carriers. Most carriers leave packages at a residence without a signature unless a signature was requested at the time of shipment. Following these tips will help ensure that your loved ones receive

When shipping Christmas gifts to your loved ones, make sure you safely package your items

their gifts on time and intact. And remember, don’t shop ‘til you drop and then pack out of whack! Happy holidays!

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Story and Photos by Heather Davis

A Time for Painting ELSA VALENZUELA FINDS HAPPINESS IN SHARING HER TALENT WITH OTHERS

As a young girl, painting came naturally to Elsa as a gift, but due to many other responsibilities, painting was pushed to the side. Recently, Elsa has begun painting again and feels it is what she was meant to do. “Any artist is like a ray in a rainbow showing the wisdom of God.” Elsa believes if we have the courage to share the talent we are given, we will be happy.

Elsa Valenzuela at home working in her art studio

n the book of Ecclesiastes it brings out that for everything there is an appointed time. For Elsa Valenzuela, the time is now to paint and to be an artist. Like many of us in life, Elsa has held many titles; wife, mother, businesswoman and teacher. After devoting her life in so many ways, she feels now is the time to bloom in her art. Elsa was born in Monterey, Mexico, where she raised her family and taught English and self improvement classes. Four years ago she and her husband moved to Plant City to help their sons with their grocery and restaurant businesses.

Many of Elsa’s paintings depict scenes from her mind of landscapes and memories, such as scenes from old Mexico of women making corn tortillas by hand and of Mexican cowboys. These are paintings that are full of symbolism, rich in cultural heritage, spirituality and meaning.

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Meeting and speaking with Elsa was an enriching and powerful experience. Along with painting, Elsa is also an avid reader and conducts self improvement classes out of her home on a weekly basis. Currently Elsa’s work is on display at the Chamber of Commerce as part of Hispanic Heritage Month. “I have seen that there is nothing better than that man should rejoice in his works.” Ecclesiastes 3:22

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�� Exhibition of work at the Chamber of Commerce of Elsa Valenzuela’s paintings FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 17

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Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

Business of the Year Awards Banquet FIVE BUSINESSES TAKE HOME AWARDS

On November 2, the Red Rose Ballroom at the Ramada Plantation House was ﬁlled with people from local businesses throughout the Plant City area. Although the dinner and socializing was enjoyable, the one factor that brought everyone together that evening was the announcements of the 2006 Businesses of the Year. Each year there are ﬁve categories: Growing Business, Small Business, Mid-Size Business, Large Business, and Special Business. Each category has three nominees, except the Special Business of the year, which is announced at the banquet and awarded to a business that has demonstrated exemplary community contributions. Below are the nominees and winners of each category. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners!

Growing Business of the Year Boggs & Butcher Engineering, LLC

Mid-Size Business of the Year A. Camacho Inc.

Other nominees: In the Field and Magnolia Construction and Real Estate, Inc.

Other nominees: Edwards, Platt, Raulerson, Coakley & Company, P.A. and Gulf Coast Turf and Tractor

Boggs & Butcher Engineering, LLC was founded in Plant City two and half years ago by Dave Butcher and Steve Boggs. Both Butcher and Boggs have extensive experience in engineering and have successfully been able to provide for the needs of residents and businesses in Plant City. They are able to help individuals with their designs and permitting for land development, both residential and commercial. From zoning changes to comprehensive plan changes on large land, Boggs and Butcher Engineering have successfully helped people in Plant City, thus growing their company from its humble beginnings such a short time ago.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 18

Driving down Alexander, many people see the large building with “Fragata” painted on the side across from the post office, but are unaware of what is inside. This building is actually the home of A. Camacho Inc., an international Spanish olive importer. The parent company is located in Spain where the groves are located. The Plant City location is the corporate office, but there are another 14 warehouses in the States. Constantly arriving and leaving this warehouse are olives with either the Fragata label, their brand name, or the names of several private labels they sell to. “We are a low profile company, so were excited to win this award,” said CEO Brett Milligan, “it was a nice surprise.”

Large Business of the Year South Florida Baptist Hospital

Other nominees: Albertsons, Inc. and Santa Sweets, Inc. For over 50 years the South Florida Baptist Hospital has been serving the medical needs of the residents in Plant City. Just recently, several additions have been made to the hospital including a new ER, new pediatric facility, new outpatient rehab center at Walden Lake, and several new physicians. The hospital has a tremendous inﬂuence on this community considering it employs over 750 people. “This is certainly a recognition of the hard work of the team members and physicians at SFBH for demonstrating commitment to improving the health care in Plant City,” said Bill Ulbricht, C.O.O.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 19

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BUSINESS OF THE YEAR continued from page 18

Small Business of the Year Central Florida Custom Homes

Other nominees: Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens and Tile Barn Carpet & Interiors For Jimmy Carapezza, carpentry work began at the young age of 14. Since then he and his wife, Annie, have built up a successful custom home building company, Central Florida Custom Homes. For over 20 years, Jimmy and Annie have been building beautiful homes for the residents of Plant City and surrounding areas. They have maintained the small company atmosphere so that Jimmy can give each and every home the personal attention it deserves. From 2,000 to 13,000 square feet, each home is personally created into the individual’s dream home.

Special Business of the Year Plant City Photo Archives In 2000 Ed Verner purchased the collection of the late Bill Friend, a Plant City photographer. He then teamed up with Gil Gott to open the Plant City Photo Archives. The purpose was to help preserve Plant City’s history through photographic collections. Today, more than 50,000 photos have been personally scanned and restored by Betty Patton, the Image Coordinator. This team, along with several other volunteers, are constantly working at preserving the heritage of this town. On November 11 they will release a new exhibit featuring the Veterens of Plant City in honor of Veteren’s Day. Hundreds of photos of our soldiers will be on display. Hopefully for Veterens Day 2007, the monument for City Hall that they initialized will be completed. The Photo Archives collects and preserves photos of the community, often trying to tell a story with the photos as well. They recently signed a contract with The History Press to create a book of Plant City history.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 20

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 21

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Story by Daniel Sperry Photo by Bert Gideons

Tomlin Middle School Wins Divisional Championship

GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM THRIVES UNDER COACH’S LEADERSHIP was especially good. “We didn’t really have superstar players this year,” said Gideons. “We just had a great, well-rounded team, probably the best I’ve seen.” Gideons has been coaching the team for Tomlin Middle School wins championship fourth straight year the past six years, and since he took over, It’s been another great year for the they have captured the Divisional Tomlin Middle School girl’s basketChampionship ﬁve times. He says he ball team. For the fourth year in a has been blessed with great players row, they have captured the Divisioneach year, and credits his assistant al Championship. Bert Gideons is the coach, Danny Smith, with helping team coach and says this year’s team make the success possible.

“I teach PE at Tomlin,” said Gideons. “I had never been a basketball coach before coaching here.” He said when the coaching position opened up, he thought it would be something that he would really enjoy. Clearly, the team’s success over the past six years proves he knows how to motivate the players and teach them the fundamentals that are critical to winning. Gideons is very excited about next year. “Basically our whole starting team is 7th graders, so they should all be back next year,” he said. He said that over the years he has had great quality female athletes who

have been very dedicated to each other and to the coaches. Working well together is the key to success at the middle school level, and Gideons said that is what the girls have done best. The basketball team consists of 6th8th grade girls and Tomlin’s record under Gideons is 29 and 1. The Divisional Champion is determined based on the winning record a middle school has over the course of each season. “Basically, if you are undefeated for the season, you are most likely to win the championship,” said Gideons.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 22

Stop by The Tile Barn to work in the design studio so you can make your home a showcase. If our large selection is overwhelming then one of our 8 designers will be happy to guide you at no additional cost. It doesnʼt take a lot of money to design something impressive when you add just the right touches. We have something to ﬁt any budget. --OR-Has your house been for sale for too long? Our designers can provide a complementary in-home consultation to make your property sell faster than your competition! You can do a few small things to set your house apart from the rest for a very reasonable budget.

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Story by Sophia Dedon

2006 Reader’s Choice Awards VOTE NOW AT WWW.FOCUSRCA.COM

very year Focus Magazine likes to recognize the local restaurants with awards voted upon by the residents of Plant City. Who better to judge the best places to eat than the public who has visited all the local eateries? The voting has started now, and the winners will be announced in mid-January.

The Reader’s Choice Awards began as part of the 1st Anniversary of Focus Magazine in 2002. Since then, the tradition has been carried on every year. At the annual Focus Anniversary party, hundreds of people gather together to ﬁnd out who the winners are. It is always an exciting time of the year for the restaurants, as they have a chance to ﬁnd out who the public loves. This year, the only

way to vote is online. You can visit www.FocusRCA.com to cast your vote.

2006 FOCUS

If a vote is cast for any restaurant that does not qualify for a category, the vote will be disregarded. Such an example would

The categories include: Best Steak, Best Sea Food, Best Barbeque, Best Down Home Cookin’, Best Breakfast, Best Dessert, Best Pizza, Best Oriental, Best Salad, Best Mexican, Best Hamburger, Best Milkshake, Best Strawberry Shortcake, Best Cuban Sandwich, Best Soup, Best Italian Dish, Most Romantic, Best Overall Service and Best Fried Chicken.

be if the Strawberry Hut were nominated for Best Steak. Strawberry Hut would not be penalized, but that speciﬁc vote for Best Steak would be removed. Every vote matters, so visit the website today to cast your vote! You may also visit www. TheFocusMagazine.com. For any questions, comments or concerns about the Focus RCA Awards, please email Sophia Dedon, Managing Editor, at sdedon@ﬂoydpublications.com.

However, there are some rules to follow. No one person can cast multiple votes. The website does track the computer you are using and will disable that computer from voting twice.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 23

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In August we ran an article on Jim & Carolyn Young, owners of the Tampa Bay Trade Exchange. Then in September, just their local clients did over 1.1 million dollars in Business. Have you called them yet? Imagine the opportunity to be given a 2nd checkbook and a new source of customers waiting to buy from you? Their business clientele trade amongst

each other for products and services in a CASHLESS MARKET PLACE. Through the ITEX trade system, Jim & Carolyn provide them a financial business tool to increase each business owner’s cash flow. They act as an additional sales force for your business and then as a purchasing agent finding products & services you want to buy. Mac McGrath, a local realtor has “exchanged/traded” some of his services for ITEX dollars deposited into his ITEX checkbook to then make purchases out of that checkbook from our network for such things as computer services, carpet cleaning, advertising and a very large pavers block job. A local advertiser just bought a Toyota Camry for his daughter from a Plant City car dealer without having to pay cash. Mark Jordan of Hardy Farms in Plant City sold some of his trees to local ITEX business owners and was able to pay for a trip to Hawaii and put a $50,000 down payment on a Horse Ranch in Ocala, all by exchanging his Palm Trees into an ITEX currency to purchase

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Story and Photos by Sherry Baldwin

Stepping with Style Morning, Noon and Night STRAWBERRY SQUARE DANCE CENTER BEGINS A BUSY SEASON

In the spirit of great fun, visiting dancers “steal” the banner and take it to their own club, where it is kept until it is retrieved by the members of that club.

Allen Snell (center) and The Good Times Band provide dance tunes at the Strawberry Square Dance Center

n a recent Saturday night, the Strawberry Square Dance Center located in Plant City began what is surely to be a very busy season! Music for the evening was provided by members of the Good Times Band including: Allen Snell (guitarist and caller for the night), Paul Barlow, Perry Burright, Bev Germaine, Earl and Eddie Sutton. On this night, their play list included a variety of both country and bluegrass tunes. Included among the many dancers was local resident Pauline Whitaker. Whitaker spoke about how, prior to his passing, she and her husband Calvin danced for many years together. They shared countless wonderful experiences as they traveled in their RV to various parts of the country and squaredanced. Today she still enjoys the company of the people with whom she shares her passion. She dances at Strawberry Square on a regular basis and plans to begin round dancing lessons soon. Whitaker also spoke of the many benefits of square dancing. “Not only do you meet a great bunch of people, but dancing is good for the mind and body as well,” stated Whitaker. “Dancing makes you feel

good while also requiring you to think fast.” She further added that those who arrive without a dance partner needn’t worry. There is always someone available to dance with. And for those interested in learning square dancing, Whitaker suggested that “they should really consider taking dance lessons.” Then, she added, “practice, practice, practice!” Don Huff, who is currently the Strawberry Square Dance Committee Chairman, described how he began square dancing about 35 years ago and that he even met his wife Barbara at a square dance. Huff also explained how today’s square dancers come from a variety of backgrounds. In fact, people all over the world square dance, with the dance steps only called in English. Shirley MacKenna, of Ruskin, shared her amazement after attending an International Square Dancing Convention. “What a wonderful sight to see people from all over the world square dancing together!” Local resident, Cynthia Dodd, also explained that part of the fun is traveling to other square dance clubs as well. This is where what is known as a “banner raid” comes into play. Dodd explained that each club has its own banner.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 26

In addition to the fabulous floating wood dance floor that many were eager to point out, there is also a Dance Apparel Shop right on the dance center premises. According to resident Jean Anderson, the shop offers a full range of items for both men and women. Additionally, many of the beautiful blouses and skirts on sale are handcrafted by area resident Rita Gonzalez. Customers such as Burt MacKenna of Ruskin and Pat Havens of Largo were among the many shoppers that evening. Havens shared that, following the loss of her

husband, she recently began to “relearn” square dancing. With the newly purchased outfits she will continue her dance lessons and may even travel on a square dance cruise as well. The Strawberry Square Dance Center is located at 4401 Boot Bay Road in Plant City. Dancing is offered seven days a week during winter season. The Dance Apparel Shop is open MondayFriday (October – April) 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and during all dances. For more information about upcoming events and/or dance lessons, please contact (813) 752-0491 or email strawberrydance@aol.com. You may also visit them on the web at: www.floridadanceweb.com/ strawberry.

Strawberry Square Dance Center draws crowds as it begins another winter dance season.

Pauline Whitaker of Plant City, along with dance partner, enjoys a night of square dancing

Burt MacKenna, assisted by Jean Anderson, at Strawberry Square Dance Apparel Shop

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 27

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Story & Photos by Debbie Bowers

Green Thumb Garden Lovers Gather PLANT CITY GARDEN CLUB CELEBRATES 10TH ANNUAL GARDEN TOUR Carr’s tropical secret garden at 2210 Wedgewood Court. You are greeted by dancing butterﬂies that enjoy the richness of the whimsical ﬂower garden. New paths wander through the garden, creating the opportunity to make small special gardens, such as the bird lady, oriental, and angel themes along the way. The secret of their dense and rich utopia is the bromeliads mixed with Florida natives, crotons, gingers, lilies, desert plants, grasses, and begonias, to name just a few.

Elisa and Bill Carr’s tropical secret garden

ohs and ahhs were heard from the green thumbed lovers treated to five beautiful and imaginative residential garden themes at the 2006 Plant City Garden Tour, which was held on Saturday, October 28. The self-guided tour was enjoyed by all as they took their time soaking in the enchantment of each garden, and an opportunity to chat with the garden owners. Raised beds of beautiful roses, lush shrubs and trees adorn the English garden theme at Susan and Jim Baggett’s home of 1001 North Wheeler Street. As you meander around the pergola and deck, your eyes are fixed on a beautiful waterfall which empties the rushing water into a pond of gold fish. Bamboo, lilies and ginger plants surround the pond. In the evening, the Baggett’s enjoy sitting around a brick recessed fire pit gazing at the stars or in an enclosed gazebo with a grill and brick oven for cooking and entertaining. Whimsical would describe the garden of Milene Powell of 805 North Collins Street. A cedar door with a speak-easy grate invites you

into the lovely sights and sounds of her paradise. The mystical sound of a waterfall flowing into the pond full of orange and pale colored Koi fish, and African lilies gracefully dance upon the surface of the pond, evoking a feeling of relaxation. Don’t be surprised to see unique objects and lush vegetation, including multi-colored gazing balls, angelic statues, and candles affixed to an old chandelier, which burns in the evening air. Barbara and Lynn Houser and their three children tend to the caretaking of their tranquil lakefront garden sanctuary at 2879 Hammock Drive. One of their gardens is situated next to the peaceful Lake Walden. Passion and jasmine flowers rest upon the beautiful arbor as you enter into another garden with angel trumpets and birds of paradise standing tall. A mountain and tropical theme are expressed throughout the design of their gardens. A boardwalk leads you to the lake, where the family enjoys the rich sunsets of the evening. It was a real treat to meander around the paths of Elisa and Bill

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 28

tural or landscape design. Additionally, a landscaped yard will be created and planted by the garden club for a Habitat for Humanity resident. For further information about joining the garden club, contact Emma Rawlings at (813) 757-9506. Enthusiastic gardeners stated they were going to their local nursery to begin designing and planting their own garden of utopia with expectations of being chosen for the distinguished garden tour of 2007.

When you approach the home of Martin and Janet Burdette, you know you are in for a treat. The garden has six seating areas with its own theme of woody shrubs, colorful flower arrangements and ornate trees. In the middle of the garden stands a gracious silver sundial which completes this experience of utopia. The garden club promotes the love of gardening, floral design, civic and environmental beautification to the community. This year the proceeds from this tour will make it possible to present a $600 scholarship to a Plant City High School student who is studying in the fields of environmental, horticul-

English garden theme at the home of Susan and Jim Baggett

Coy ﬁsh and African lilies live in the garden pond of Milene Powell’s home

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Story and Photos by John Garrod

Wetherington Auction LARGEST PIECE OF PLANT CITY TO EVER HIT AUCTION BLOCK

�� Marty Higgenbotham, center, instructs the crowd on the auction process, while Clayton Seawright, left, waits at the keyboard

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On Saturday, October 14th, one industrial tract off Roberts Ranch Road, encompassing over 232 acres, hit the auction block at the Red Rose Ballroom at the Ramada Inn Plantation House. It was the largest piece of Plant City land to ever be auctioned off, but it was not the only one that day. By the time the crowd cleared out, over 600 acres of Plant City real estate had been sold for a total exceeding $10 million. The auction was conducted by Higgenbotham Auctioneers of Lakeland. Founder Marty Higgenbotham, aided by an experienced team of assistants, does an excellent job of keeping the atmosphere fun in spite of the large amounts of money at stake. At his side throughout the process was Clayton Seawright on the keyboard, keeping the room entertained while paperwork was being done. The 232-acre tract was the largest, but at a total price just over $3.1 million, it was surpassed in total sales

price by a former 228-acre ranch estate. Broken down into 8 separate parcels of land, the former ranch grossed over 5 million dollars. Potential buyers in the room were made up of a widely mixed lot. Some were developers, looking at land for new subdivisions, while others sought land to build a residence on. Daryll Patisaul and Jennifer Allen came out of the auction as owners of a tract facing onto Smith Ryals Road. Also hitting the block were an 81-acre former equine ranch, an unﬁnished 68-acre subdivision near U.S. 301 and Macintosh Road, and the former warehouse and cold storage facility of Bud’s Poultry on Tever Street. “The thing about these auctions is, you just never know who’s going to show up, or what they’re going to buy,” says Higgenbotham. “But in all, it was a good day.”

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 30

From left, Carmen Burger, Gigi Nolan and Joe Nolan, real estate attorney, waiting to assist winning bidders with their paperwork

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 31

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Story by Brian West Photos courtesy of Sparky’s

Hard Work Brought Great Success NOW MIKE SPARKMAN IS PURSUING OTHER AVENUES

pending his life selling petroleum products in one way or another, Mike Sparkman has decided it’s the right time to pursue other interests. With the success of his business being the direct result of years of hard work, after more than four decades selling petroleum products, Mike is ready for the next chapter in life. Mike is the youngest of ﬁve children: Marilyn, Rodney, David and Julianne, all of who were the children of Seymour and Nancy Sparkman. He began working at the Pure Oil Service Station owned by L.T. Langford on the corner of Baker and Palmer Streets. David worked there, and would have his younger brother come over to help him; Mike was a

young boy of just nine years at the time. Mike said, “Of course, he’d con me into washing windshields, and I’d have to stand up on a milk crate to reach them.” In the summer when Mike was just 13 years old, he was hired by the station dealer, Buddy Jeffries, to work full-time. When he was a junior in high school and David was a junior at the University of Tampa; they had an opportunity to buy the inventory for $3,000 and rent the station from Mr. Langford. Their father co-signed the note. During Mike’s junior and senior years of high school he had four jobs; working the service station, as a volunteer ﬁre ﬁghter for the Plant City Fire Department Station number 1 (located across the

street from their service station), as a driver for the ambulance service owned by Haynes Funeral home and he delivered home heating fuel to area homes. He was so busy that while dating his wife Diane, it wasn’t unusual for him to receive a call while out on a date, and have to go drive an ambulance or a fuel oil truck. During school hours, the brothers had an older gentleman who would run the station. Then they would run the station until about 8:00 p.m. As volunteer fire fighters, the city paid them each $22 a month for staying at the fire station every night. In addition, they were paid $2 for the first hour of a call, and $1 per hour for every additional hour of the call.

Sparky’s, Inc. recently sold to Alimentation Couche-Tard, the parent company of Circle K

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 32

Their shift was 12:00 a.m. – 7:00 a.m., seven days a week. If they needed off for something, they had to have someone who was qualified to relieve them. So at the end of the month they’d each make $65 - $70 – enough to make Mike’s car payment. In 1964, Mike had an opportunity to buy out James T. Pollock’s home heating oil business. Mike formed his first corporation; Sparky’s, Inc. He pointed out that there’s been confusion over the years that he worked for his father at a service station. Mike believes the confusion is related to the forming of his first corporation. Jim Redman was the attorney handling the incorporation for Mike, but because Mike

MIKE SPARKMAN

continued

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Mike Sparkman (bottom right) purchased his ﬁrst service station at age 16 with his brother, David

was only 19 years old at the time, Redman wouldn’t allow him to own stock in the company or have a position as an officer of the company. So Mike’s father held 1/3 of the corporation, David held 1/3, and the shares that Mike would have held had he been of age were also held by his father. Mike’s father was appointed President of the corporation, while Mike held the title of General Manager. Later, Mike bought David’s shares. Mike said, “I bought David’s shares for the exorbitant price of $600. [Laughing] It took me three or four years to pay it off and it cost me $176 in interest.” Once Mike got into the home heating oil business, he really started working hard. He bought a new 1968 GMC tank truck and wore it out in the first year driving the county. Eventually, Texaco came along and offered him an opportunity to become a Consignee. He sold their product and was paid on commission. After a couple of years with Texaco, Mike was approached by Spur Oil. When self service gasoline sales became law, it was the beginning of Mike’s career in retail gasoline and convenience stores. Mike has seen his fair share of tough times. During the oil embargo of 1971, Mike lost his business. He was completely shut down. The oil companies were more interested in selling to those with higher volumes and higher profits. He sold all the equipment he’d acquired, except two Kerosene trucks. He closed up his office and moved it to his home and began buying and selling kerosene and diesel to support his family. After several months of this, Mike

found himself again selling kerosene for home heating, and then, thanks to a Federal mandate, he began receiving allocations to sell gasoline. Mike said, “It really launched me.” In 1988, after building a chain of several convenience stores, he sold the business to Texaco. In 1989, he tried another venture selling chicken, hamburgers and fries in a few locations in Plant City (the space occupied today by Hole-In-One Donuts) and Lakeland. Mike lost money in the venture, but returned to the convenience store business in 1990. Now, after building the chain to 26 stores, including 16 Subway franchises, he is moving on. In late August 2006, Mike negotiated the sale of his 26-store chain to Alimentation Couche-Tard. Alimentation Couche-Tard, the parent company of Circle K, is the largest convenience store operator in Canada and the second largest in the United States. During Mike’s years in the business, he has accumulated countless awards and recognitions for his work in the petroleum industry and his service to the community – not to mention 16 years as a city commissioner and as mayor for six years. He isn’t ready to say exactly what’s next for him and his family; his two sons, Tommy and Chris, also work for the business. But rest assured they’ll work hard to be successful in whatever that is. All but a few of the employees have an option of being retained by CoucheTard, and Mike is working to ﬁnd placement for the few remaining. Congratulations, and thanks for all your hard work!

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CARPORT FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 33

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

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Story by Heather Davis Photos by Pat Hearn

Outdoor Antique Fair and Sale GEARS US UP FOR THE FALL

The temperatures recently have given us an indication that signs of fall are in the air. The sights of pumpkins for sale, the arrival of fall festivals, and now the return of the Outdoor Antique Fair and Sale gears us up for the fall months. Saturday, October 14th marked the beginning in a series for the return of the Antique Fair and Sale. From now through winter and into the early spring months, the Antique Fair and Sale will be held downtown at the corner of Palmer and Reynolds Streets the second Saturday of each month. Ed Hampson of Pieces of Olde and the Antique Shop Committee worked to bring together a group of over 41 vendors to participate. The majority of Plant City’s downtown merchants were represented, as well as many visitors, with most planning on returning next month. Beginning at 8:00 a.m., the Antique Fair and Sale was well under way with many happy visitors, shoppers and browsers, all ready to come across that special ﬁnd. To tempt the collector in all of us were interesting pieces of memorabilia, jewelry, old dolls, toys, glassware, pottery and antique furniture. Coffee 101 provided freshly brewed hot coffee and a variety of delicious baked items.

Mighty Morphin attends his ﬁrst ever Antique Fair

Even before the beginning of this month’s ﬁrst Antique Fair and Sale, plans are already being made for next month’s event on November 11th. The November fair will be held on Veteran’s Day and will give Plant City’s downtown merchants an opportunity to give back to the community. During the event, fund-raising activities will be conducted to raise money to help pay for the Plant City Armed Forces Monument that will be erected next year at the City Hall. Attending the Antique Fair and Sale - $0.00 Finding that sought-after treasure or gift for someone special (after haggling) - $20.00 Having a chance to give back to our community - Priceless

Crowds of people enjoy the Antique Fair and Sale

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 34

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 • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 35

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 36

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813.717.7700 • 1505 South Alexander Street • Suite 102

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 37

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

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Story by Daniel Sperry Photos by Sophia Dedon

Plant City Fares Well On Election Day MANY LOCAL RESIDENTS TURN OUT TO VOTE

n election year is always a high intensity time in America. Florida, in particular, receives plenty of national attention after being pivotal in the past two presidential elections. This year, Florida avoided major election controversy, and in what was probably the most watched midterm election of modern times, Plant City natives who were running for ofﬁce won all but one race on November 7th. Buddy Johnson, Plant City native and Supervisor of Elections for Hillsborough County, said that he had been working overtime to ensure that there would be no glitches on Election Day.

“We have implemented new voting machines to comply with laws passed by the Florida Legislature since 2004,” said Johnson. “We had some issues with tabulation speed in the primaries, but that has been resolved.” When asked how he felt about Plant City candidates running for ofﬁce, he demurred.

“As Supervisor of Elections, I don’t endorse any candidate,” he said. My job is to manage the election and ensure that the process runs smoothly and efﬁciently. Obviously, I’ve lived my whole life here, so it’s always exciting to see good things happen for the city.” Johnson is passionate about his work supervising elections. “I love my job,” he said. “I believe that voters should be treated with hospitality. Elections should be managed accurately, and be completely devoid of partisanship.” His goal for this and future election years is that they be run ﬂawlessly and that voters be empowered through knowledge of how and where to vote. He said that he wants to see all obstacles removed that would prevent anyone from being able to vote and that he is working toward continuous improvement of the election processes in Hillsborough County. One closely watched race involved Ashley Moody, originally from Plant City. She won her runoff election

Grant Conine showed his support to local resident Al Higginbotham running for County Commissioner

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 38

against Gary Dolgin. With 100% of precincts reporting, she ended up with 60.31% of the vote, winning decisively. Moody had asked voters to look past preconceived ideas about age, and apparently they did. She said that her experience should be what voters look at. Stephen Gorham of Plant City lost his bid to be State Senator. He received 46.39% of the vote to Rhonda Storms 53.39%. His showing was much stronger than observers originally expected. “Conventional wisdom was that I would not even break the 30% mark,” said Gorham after the election. “I congratulate Senator-Elect Storms, and I hope that the closeness of this election will show her that local voters expect her to take a different approach to government than she has as commissioner.” In the election for State Representative, Richard Glorioso easily defeated opponent Jeremy Zelanes to retain his seat, 67.87% to 32.18%. He

thanked voters and volunteers for their commitment and dedication and for believing in his message. The ﬁnal race in which a Plant City resident was running was the election for a County Commissioner seat. Al Higginbotham received 54.89% of the vote to win over Lisa Rodriguez and Jean Batronie. Higginbotham was not immediately available for comment after the election. Plant City election volunteers said that voter turnout appeared to be higher than usual as of noon on Election Day. One worker said that she could not remember seeing so many people out early to vote during a mid-term election. Overall, voter turnout was lower than usual statewide, according to early voting data provided by The New York Times. Johnson had expected voter turnout to be good, locally. “Plant City is pretty active when it comes to voting,” he said. “People here are always very interested in what is going on in government.”

Phil McCullen was at the Bruton Memorial Library poll on the day of elections to support Ashley Moody

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 39

�� Small Animals • Birds • Reptiles Freshwater Fish • Supplies • Live Feed Science Diet • And More

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1514 S. Alexander St, Suite 108 Plant City, FL 33563

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 40

Christmas Pets On Their Way! ��

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�� Plant City 717-7773

1418 South Evers St.

Brandon 654-6568 1903 W. Lumsden Rd.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 41

Wishing You and Yours Many Wondrous Blessings This Holiday Season! Dr. John A. Busciglio Orthodontist

BUSCIGLIO ��

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Evening Hours Available ��

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 42

Berry Patch Kids Fine Children’s Apparel & Gift Boutique

Expect the Best... Quality Selection & Service

Specializing in...

Pageant Wear Flower Girl Christening & Communion

Come in & see our beautiful Holiday wear

Located Downtown Plant City 201 S. Collins Street • (813) 764-9797 Hours: Tues - Sat • 10:00 to 5:00 • eve. appts upon request PHOTO BY: CHERYL TURNER PORTRAITS

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 43

Think Outside the Box this Holiday Season

HOLIDAY

Gift Guide Baird’s Framing Do your Christmas framing now. Fine art framed ready to go under the tree, now discounted for added savings. We frame all your possessions with the ﬁnest quality materials to preserve them for many, many years. Large or small, everything is of equal importance. Put your family treasures in a shadowbox or collage for your great-grand children to enjoy and learn about their heritage. I mount and laminate for your business, too. Special prices for large multi orders, also. 813-752-6616

A Healthy Glow by Katie A Healthy Glow by Katie wants to treat you and those on your Christmas list, to a calming experience this holiday season in our beautifully adorned private day spa. To help you look and feel your best, we offer skin soothing facial treatments, featuring Dermalogica products, along with waxing, permanent makeup, and tension relieving massages. In addition, we feature a unique variety of gorgeous jewelry to suit everyone’s taste. Give the perfect holiday gift this season; a gift of beauty and relaxation with gift certiﬁcates from A Healthy Glow. We also have free gift wrapping and customized gift baskets. 1514 S. Alexander St. Suite 208

(813) 759-8141

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 44

Berry Patch Kids Berry Patch Kids, ﬁne children’s apparel and gift boutique, offers the best in selection and service since 1997. The most beautiful holiday wear, ﬂower girl, pageant wear and gifts for your little ones are their specialty. Layaway, baby gift registry and complimentary gift wrap are always available. Located in historic downtown and open Tuesday through Saturday 10 to 5. 201 Collins St

813-764-9797

Hey kids, come check out our playroom & princess ﬁtting room too!

Curves Give the gift of health this season. Can you think of a better gift than to help the women in your life get healthy? Give them a jump start on their New Year’s resolutions. Help them to come to Curves. We are celebrating seven successful years in Plant City. We have a tried and proven way to help women successfully lose weight and get healthier. Gift certiﬁcates are available. 1822 James L. Redman Pkwy

813-719-1822

Brown’s Jewelers For the most appreciated jewelry this holiday season, visit Brown’s Jewelers. Their high-volume stock includes diamond rings, wedding sets, pendants, bracelets, earrings and other jewelry of handsome design. Plus, an extensive variety of gift items can be found. To be assured of quality merchandise at a reasonable price, along with friendly service, visit them soon; they will be happy to see you! 1705 Jim Redman Pkwy

813-754-2360

Fancypet Petstore Fancypet Petstore invites you to shop with us for the holidays! This Christmas we have many new items for your pets. All items in store will be on sale during this holiday season. Stop by weekly and see what’s on special. Birds, Reptiles, Small Animals and Fish. Layaways and gift cards are available. And remember to always make your pet a Fancypet ! Visit our web site at www.Fancypet.com ! 1514 S. Alexander St Ste 108 Plant City, Florida 33563 Behind the Circle K on the corner of Alexander and Mendosa

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 45

Elite Home Fitness Well, it’s that time of year again. Holiday parties fill everyone’s schedule and along with the celebrating come the dreaded extra pounds. Why not start the new year off right with a complete physical fitness program from Elite Home Fitness? Mike Gartz, certified personal trainer with 15 years experience, will design a personal fitness regime for you based on your current health condition and goals you want to achieve. Best of all, Mike will come to you at your home or office. What could be easier? Call Mike now at (813)786-1541 to get started on a healthier new year!

Knotts Team Sports We would like to wish each of you a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. Please stop by and see us for your sports Christmas presents. 2006 merchandise arriving daily and great sale prices on closeout items. Your Little League Headquarters. 901 W MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, FL. 33563 813-754-2588 Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 46

Plant City Window Tint NEED AN IDEA FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR CHRISTMAS? How about a gift certiﬁcate for window tinting? We are going on our seventh year here in Plant City and we have provided protection for homes, businesses and automobiles with LLumar Window Film. Window Tint is a gift that will last a very long time and will provide 99% UV protection and up to 79% heat rejection, depending on the application. Come see us for “Quality Work at Competitive Prices” Kim Murray- Owner and Installer 622 S. Collins

813-707-0496

Remedi Pamper yourself! Remedi MediSpa & Chiropractic’s treatments enhance your beauty and restore your health. Services include laser hair removal, IPL photofacials and skin rejuvenation, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, facials, mesotherapy, massage therapy, reﬂexology, salt glow body treatments, seaweed mud wraps, chiropractic care, spinal decompression therapy, acupuncture, physician supervised weight loss and medical grade skin care products. Gift certiﬁcates make wonderful gifts. Please join us at Remedi’s holiday open house December 8th from 4 to 7 p.m.!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 47

Health Hutt Help someone start off the new year right with a “Get-Fit’’ gift card from the Health Hutt to use towards our one-on-one personal training, nutritional plans, discount supplements, and all-new smoothie bar. You can even treat yourself, by coming in for your own FREE consultation at 302 N. Palm Dr. Suite 103 or visit us at our new location, 604 S. Collins St., December 1st. Let us help you achieve your ﬁtness goals, and remember we make ﬁtness fun. 602 N. Collins Street as of Dec. 1st

754-1416

The Artistry For a really special gift for that hard to please person this Christmas, why not give them a gift certificate from The Artistry. They offer all hair and nail services, in addition to their esthetic services such as facials, ear candling, permanent make-up, microderm abrasion, body wraps, paraffin treatments and waxing. They also offer various massage services: Swedish, therapeutic deep tissue, stone and salt glow. There are numerous packages starting with the Rejuvenate (half hour) all the way up to the Grand Artistry Spa package (five hours). This is a gift anyone would be pleased to receive! 1505 S. Alexander St., Suite 102 813-717-7700

The Athletic Club Exercise is not a luxury; it is absolutely required to maintain all aspects of good health. A gift certiﬁcate for a membership, a discount off a membership or personal training sessions is a perfect gift idea to help your family or friend get well or simply stay healthy. With everything from educational classes, Body Sculpting and Aerobics to Cardio, Free Weights and Personal Training, we have the perfect gift for anyone. Call or visit our Health Club for a tour! 1418 South Evers Street

813-717-7773

Walden Lake Golf & Country Club Have a golfer to buy for? We make gift giving easy! Stop by our pro shop and pick up a gift card good for the latest fashions in golf attire, clubs, bags, shoes and accessories for both men and women. Looking for that exceptional gift idea? What about golf lessons from Gibson’s Golf Academy? We also offer a variety of memberships for golﬁng, swimming and tennis. Our gift cards can be used for any purchase on property even at Bogey’s Bar & Grill. waldenlakegolf.com

754-8587

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 48

MEMBERSHIP

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 49

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 50

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 51

A Giving Heart Goes a Long Way Towards Helping Others Linda Lawson and her volunteers give to the community every day Linda Lawson is the Executive Director of the United Food Bank and Services of Plant City.

She works with

the food bank to help those who are the neediest in our community. Because of her efforts and the efforts of her volunteers, thousands of people in Plant City have gone to bed not worrying about what they’ll eat the next day.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 52

Interview by Brian West Photos by Sophia Dedon and courtesy of Linda Lawson

Focus: Are you from Plant City? Lawson: Yes, I am. I am a native of the area. I actually grew up between Dover and Valrico. We had a rural address in Dover then moved to Valrico when I was 13. I attended Turkey Creek High School. Focus: Tell me a little about your family. Lawson: My husband and I have been married for 44 years. It’s been a wonderful marriage. We have three wonderful children, two sons and a daughter. Their names are Billy Jr., Tim and Krysta. My son Tim was a twin. His twin sister Tina passed away when she was a baby. She was two years ﬁve months and three days old when she contracted massive pneumonia. Unfortunately, we didn’t have all the medications then that we do now to help prevent useless deaths in children. We also have seven terriﬁc grandchildren, Michael, Cory, Wyatt, Tiftin, Jared, Kailyn and Blake.

Focus: Is there a limit to the number of times you can help someone? Lawson: Yes. We have a three times service limit. However, we do make exceptions. If folks are working and they’ve hit a bump in the road, we understand that. Perhaps they’ve been involved in an accident, a spouse has left, or maybe there’s been a critical illness. We are willing to work with them more than three visits. Bad things happen to good people. We’ll closely monitor their situation on a monthly basis until they can get up on their feet again, but it doesn’t go on and on.

Senior citizens are another special exception. Many seniors must make a decision monthly to purchase medication they desperately need or buy food. We have a special program for those seniors who qualify. They may come in for food once a month, which is usually from the middle to the latter part of the month when they Volunteers are a vital part of the work done at the United Food Bank are running short of funds. We only set limits to weed out the individuals who are making public assistance a lifestyle. We also give every client an employment guide. We believe in promoting self-sufficiency. We have a list of job openings in the Focus: How did you get involved with the United Food Bank? area that we offer as well. Lawson: I ran a church food pantry for several years. During those years I gained my education regarding this service. For many years before beginFocus: Where does the food that United Food Bank distributes come ning the food bank I felt that God had laid it on my heart to feed the needy. from? Every time I would feel the call to feed the needy, I would tell God, “I don’t Lawson: We’re a United Way Partner Agency. We get part of our funding know any needy folks and I don’t know where to begin. However, I am from them; however, the bulk of our funding comes from the fine people, willing, but you’ll have to show me how. You’ll have to open the doors.” I civic organizations, several area churches and wouldn’t think about it again for a while and then businesses of our community. Albertson’s makes I’d get this feeling in my heart again. I’d remind a donation to us every Monday. They give us God again that I was willing but He would have their scratch-and-dent items. We get everything to open the doors. Everyone I knew was just like from salt and pepper to soup and nuts. We also me; we live in our nice homes, we drive our nice get desserts and bread from Publix. Kash-N-Karcars, we drive to our nice offices and back again. ry gives us desserts and breads, and some meats and produce. Long John Silver’s and Popeye’s Our paths don’t seem to cross with those who are Chicken donate to us as well. Without the coopin need. After a couple of years, a few friends eration of the community, we would not be able from my church and I organized a fundraiser to continue to supply groceries to the truly needy called Taste of Plant City. We actually purchased of this area. food with the proceeds and donated it to several local church pantries. After a while we realized Focus: Tell me one of the more special times there needed to be a united effort to help the you’ve been able to help someone. needy in the community. This way we can help Lawson: We try to pay attention to our clients meet the needs of the working poor, the ones needs. We’ve have clients come in and tell us who fall through the cracks. We take clients by that it’s their child’s birthday, but they don’t have referral only to insure we are assisting the truly anything to give them. We’ll supply them with needy. We opened our doors seven years ago on cake mix and frosting. We always have a few September 1, 1999. We’re a 501c3 non-profit leftover toys from the holidays, so we’ll give corporation and are governed by a wonderful them a toy for the child. Many of them leave board of directors. crying tears of relief. No parent wants to disappoint their child on their birthday. Focus: Are you limited to helping those within a specific area? Linda and Bill Lawson have been married for 44 years Focus: Can you share one of your successes Lawson: Yes. The boundary is roughly east to with me? the Polk County line, north to Crystal Springs, west to Dover, and south to Lawson: Yes. I’d like to tell you the story of Lisa. I’m an ambassador of Lithia-Pinecrest. It’s a big area. And if someone comes to us from outside the Plant City Chamber of Commerce. I had gone to a luncheon and before our area, we’ll get them in touch with the agency for their area and give I left, Marion Smith, Chamber President, told me she had a pan of Greek them food for the day. If it’s Friday, we’ll give them food for the weekend, salad and a pan of spaghetti left over and asked if I’d like to take it to the along with a referral to their local agency. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 53

food bank. We don’t deal with cooked foods, but I doubted that most of our clients ever get to eat in a restaurant, so I took the food. When I got back to the ofﬁce I had the volunteers dishing the food into individual bags for our clients. I went out to the front lobby which was ﬁlled with needy folks.

third world country. It happened right here in Plant City. Many children and adults suffer from hunger daily right here in our wonderful community. But our success story is this. We were able to assist Lisa’s family with over 200 pounds of groceries and by the end of the day, she had found two part-time jobs from the referrals we gave her.

I said hello and spoke to everyone, but one young woman never even looked up. I put my hand on her shoulder and Focus: Is there something asked if she was okay. She coming up for the food bank looked up and said, “I have a that you’d like to share with terrible headache.” I told her everyone? that I don’t usually offer my Lawson: We have some needs clients medication, but I do I’d like everyone to know have some Tylenol, and I asked about. We need more space. if she wanted some. She said, It would be wonderful if some“No. I’ll be alright after I eat one would come forward with something.” So I asked her to a piece of property or a larger come to the back with me. I building they could donate to asked her if she liked spaghetti us. Many times we are forced and she said, “I love it.” So we to turn away large donations Linda reading to her seven grandchildren during Christmas last year made her a plate of spaghetti of frozen foods due to the fact and she ate it all. I asked if she’d like another plate and she said, “Yes.” We we just don’t have space for a walk-in freezer. We have many wonderful made her another plate and she ate it volunteers but we could certainly use as well. I’d never seen a woman eat more. Our fall food drive that’s held two plates of spaghetti. between November 1st and December 24th will bring in between 30,000 I asked her to tell me her story. She and 50,000 pounds of food; all of it said that she and her husband both must be sorted, separated, and labeled worked for a large corporation and for future use. Also, Christmas toys were laid off due to downsizing. are donated to us to distribute to our They put their resumes in everywhere needy client’s children. Our need for volunteers is intensified during and couldn’t find work. She said the day before, she and her husband and November and December. three children shared a packet of grits for breakfast, but had not had anyPlant City desperately needs a vocathing to eat since. She said that day tional-technology center. The U.S. she was so Labor desperate department for a job says the she went majority to McDonof all jobs ald’s and available Sorting the donated cans is one of Volunteers of all ages help filled out in Florida the many roles of the volunteers with organizing donations an applicacan be tion. Then she asked the girl behind the counter filled with a vocational certificate. A common if she would give her some packets of ketchup. thread among our 40,000 clients over the past She said that she went to the side bar and took seven years has been a lack of job skills. A Vosome liquid creamers. She said she didn’t mean Tech center would be such a blessing to those in to steal, but she was desperate. She told me she need. With job skills and training, their standard took the ketchup and creamer home and mixed of living would be improved, along with our them with water. She made tomato soup for her local economy. This need is definitely an ecochildren for breakfast. This didn’t happen in a nomic issue for all of Plant City. Linda has been with the United Food Bank since it opened its doors September 1999

Linda Lawson is someone with a giving heart. She’s willing shows. Spending 30 minutes in the food bank helping those for the lives we lead, but Lawson does this everyday. She’s a in our community. We should be very thankful for the things FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 54

to help in any way she can, and her work in need might make many of us feel guilty truly special person doing very special work we have and not take too much for granted.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 57

HISTORY

DID YOU KNOW?

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Plant City Photo Archives, Inc.

Plant City’s Own Radio Station – WPLA 910kc with outlandish stories – and she was a storyteller. This ‘n That became a community icon radio program and retained this popularity for over 20 years.

Many Plant City residents fondly remember WPLA, 910 on your dial, as their “community radio station,” and it was. First sent out over the airwaves in July 1949, the station quickly gathered steam and also quickly gathered a strong support base. W. A. Smith and his brothers, Ray and Lester, owned and operated Smith Brothers Suprex Market, which dated back to 1926. W. A. became interested in the radio business and in gospel music, and he decided to put together his own radio station. With some equipment purchased from WLAK in Lakeland, and an Orlando radio station, Smith was able to set up his operations at 1507 South Collins Street and received authorization from the FCC to operate his daytime facility at 1570 kilocycles from sunrise to sunset. By 1951 the station was ready for its next growth stage, and W. A. Smith hired George Friend as station manager. Friend, brother of local photographer Bill Friend, was a Lakeland native and came to WPLA from WLAK, where he was known for his daily “Man On The Street” interviews. Friend was just what WPLA needed and he managed the station, wrote and recorded commercials, began doing remotes from the downtown auto shows, from the Strawberry Festival, from political rallies, and from local businesses’ special events.

In 1956 the station was granted approval to move from 1570 to 910kc, to reach a larger audience, which it had attained from its extensive coverage of local activities and from its popular, country and gospel music format. Al Berry joined the station in 1958 and became both a sales representative and an on-the-air personality. The station used the UPI teletype news, called “rip and read,” on an hourly basis and carried local news at 12:30 p.m., announcing births, deaths, etc. They continued doing remotes from area events and businesses, the Strawberry Festival, play-by-play high school football games, and community issues. When George Friend died of a sudden heart attack in 1968, W. A. turned to Al Berry and offered him the opportunity to be both manager

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 58

and part-owner. It was about this time that Berry started the This ‘n That program. It began as a 25 minute daily swap program for people to buy and sell goods. It grew more popular and expanded to one hour. W. A. Smith’s son, Ercelle Smith, (who liked cattle but not broadcasting), joined the station about 1966 and in 1968 joined Berry in the This ‘n That format – and the program really took off. This ‘n That became a two-hour program that perhaps was the forerunner of today’s talk shows. It covered local interest, items to sell, community activities and even Bert Manzell, who would call in and play his guitar and sing over the phone. Aunt Maggie, who raised cattle and tanned snakeskins in Springhead, would call in frequently and entertain the listeners

Over the years, many personalities went through that station and WPLA was a beloved community asset. Mary Jim Everidge was perhaps the ﬁrst female talk show host and her show (1962 – 1968) grew from 15 minutes to an hour almost overnight. Others who passed through the control room include Terry Nichols, Jack Rushing, Jim Maloy, Joe Penny, Gordon Solie, Steve Smith, Dick Shiﬂett and many more. To see who else was involved and to read up on WPLA, go to Maloy’s web site at www. radioyears.com. It is excellent. Al Berry and Ercelle Smith bought the station from W. A. in 1974 and continued to run it until 1987, when they sold it to Harmon Broadcasting. The Plant City facility was closed in 1994 and the building became a child-care facility and later a hair salon – thus ending the story of Plant City’s “community radio station,” WPLA.

Sources: Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., Plant City Photo Archives’ “Oral History Project 2006,” conversations with Al Berry and Steve Smith, and the web site “radioyears.com.”

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Enjoy fabulous views from sunrise to sunset over Lake Lester on this 3.13 acre waterfront lot. Surrounded by well maintained, prestigious homes.This is a perfect building lot near all amenities on approx. 55 acre lake used for ﬁshing, water-skiing, etc. Priced to sell at $445,000.

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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 $397,900

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Two 1 Acre Lots on Varn Road • North Plant City 4.93 Acres on Brock Road • Northwest Plant City

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WALDEN LAKE SILVER BROOKE 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. $239,900

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 64

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Live the good live in this Golf Course Condo. Located on the 9th green, home features a 2/2/1136 Sq.Ft.La, screened lanai, 2 car garage, wood laminate ﬂooring and beautiful oak trees. Priced at only $225,000. ��

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in gated community. Model perfect home with maintenance-free exterior and community pool. Located close to Polk Pkwy, shopping, schools, theater, and golf course. All this and more for only $204,900 ��

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home just outside city limits with NO DEED RESTRICTIONS !!! Over 3300 sq. ft. of A/C area with split bedrooms - large master with jacuzzi and sep. shower. Home has Florida Rm with large gas ﬁreplace, Media Center, Living Room, Dining Room, and a Family Rm. Roof, A/C, Spa Heater, etc have been replaced in last 5 years. Large Pool with 4 gazebos and Heated Spa

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4/2 home on 4.5 acres MOL with road frontage on Trapnell. Acreage can be subdivided. Priced to sell.

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Upgraded with new roof, tile flooring & carpet. New AC too. Includes refrigerator, flat top range, dishwasher, disposal built in. Queen size murphy bed in 2nd bdrm. cozy fireplace. Located in golf course community. Turn key for carefree living. $204,900

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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.

Less Than $170,000! - 3/2 brick home with pool inside city limits on almost 1/2 acre lot. Newer metal roof, original hardwood ﬂoors w/ oversized 2 car garage and detached workshop. No deed restrictions and plenty of parking for RV or Boat.

Handyman Special! - 4/2 home on 4.5 acres MOL with road frontage on Trapnell. Acreage can be subdivided. Priced to sell.

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 66

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 67

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 68

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 75

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Story by Natalie Sweet

The Walden Lake Review T

he Walden Lake Community Association Board met on October 23rd and made decisions on several agenda items. The entrance into the Polo Field parking lot will be paved. A decision was made to replace the playground equipment in the Silverwood Playground. The sidewalk, which is lifting due to tree roots and other damage, will also be repaired. Many residents are not even aware of this playground but it is a common area open for use to all residents of Walden Lake.

east of Timberlane, which had been damaged from our many storms in the last few years, has been replanted with new Ligustrum bushes and looks wonderful.

Several dead trees have been removed from the main park and the bridge across from the park that was destroyed a few weeks ago will be repaired by this printing or soon after. The hedgerow along Trapnell Road

The board has had several meetings with the new owners of the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club and are working together for improved relationships which beneﬁts all the residents of Walden Lake. I had a chance

The board decided to change landscape companies for the Walden Lake common areas beginning January 1, 2007. Complete Land Care will be taking over as the new Landscape Company and we are assured that the care will be the same or better.

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to speak with Steve Mercer, the general manager of WLGCC to see what was new. WLGCC recently contracted with Jeff Gibson of the Gibson Golf Academy for golf lessons. Jeff is offering private, group and couples clinics. Jeff also has a great junior program, which includes private lessons as well as camps and clinics. Jeff can be reached at 752-1171 Ext 224. Steve also told me that since the new ownership took over, the membership has increased by 120 members and is continuing to grow. They are currently overseeding the greens, which will keep the greens lush and green during the cold/dry season. There will be some bridge repair done soon along the golf trails, which are also used by many

residents for walking, jogging and biking. The club will be having a Thanksgiving “Sinatra Brunch” from 10:30-2:30 featuring the nationally recognized impersonator, Billy Finch. Billy will also present his full show Thanksgiving weekend on Friday and Saturday nights at 7 PM and will include a Surf & Turf dinner. Limited seating is available and reservations can be made by calling 752-1171 Ext 227. The board would like to thank all residents for keeping up with their personal homes and landscape making Walden Lake the best community in East Hillsborough County to live in.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 76

References Available

Lic #SCC131149898 Bonded & Ins.

C E N T U R Y

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Story by Shelton Keely

Investigating in Tax Certiﬁcates and Tax Deeds PART 2 OF A MULTI-PART SERIES

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 78

There are over 3,000 counties in the United States, and each one of them has something a little different about the way they do things. There are some good books on the subject, including my own, and many of the counties have a wealth of information you can obtain for free. A good place to access the various counties across the US is www.naco.org. There are a number of approaches you can take at this point. If you have very limited capital or are strictly looking for a guaranteed rate of return on your savings or investment portfolio, you may wish to concentrate on Tax Lien Certificates. If your ultimate goal is to buy and sell real estate or to build a portfolio of investment properties, then you may wish to concentrate on attending Tax Deed Sales. As you become more comfortable with the materials and your knowledge of how they can work for you, your strategy can be modified. But for now let’s keep it simple. Set up a series of simple steps designed to get you to your ultimate goal, and then go for it. Try this as a start. Contact the Tax Collector or Treasurer’s office in your county and find out the answers to the following questions: 1. When will the county be conducting the next Tax Sale? 2. Where will the sale take place? (Get the address, room, and time of sale) 3. How can I get a list of the Tax Liens/Properties to be auctioned? (Sometimes, the county will have copies available at their offices. Most likely they will refer you to a local newspaper that prints the sale notice and list of properties or liens to be sold.) 4. How can I get the Rules of the Sale? (The terms and conditions of the sale including pre-registration requirements and methods of payment.) 5. If it’s a lien sale, what is the interest rate? How is it calculated? 6. Does the county have any unsold Tax Lien Certificates or properties from the last sale? The answer to the above question is usually “yes.” At which point, you should ask how to see a copy of that list. Then go review the list! Many counties have THOUSANDS of unsold certificates. I recently picked up a list of unsold certificates from one county in Florida, and it was 905 pages with approximately 32 liens per page. Just that list represented millions of dollars worth of delinquent taxes. If the answer to this is “no,” ask the next question: What happens to any unsold Tax Lien Certificates? Many times, they will respond in a manner that gets you the answer you want. “Such and such department keeps that list” or “They are held by the county.” Don’t be intimidated or discouraged if initially you don’t get the answers you need to move forward. Be polite and persistent. Again, call and ask for this information from more than one county. The information you get will vary from one county to the next, and you will start to become familiar with the terminology used in your state and counties. There are a number of counties in Florida with no unsold Tax Lien Certificates. If I had stopped at one call, I may not have gotten the opportunity to buy thousands of dollars worth of certificates at 18%. Now that you have gathered the information, part three talks about how to get ready for a sale. Shelton Keely Keller Williams Realty 813-752-2087

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sold HOME HOME ON THE RANCH Thereʼs 13 acres surrounding this 3 bedroom 2 bath home with inground pool. Completely fenced with a small pond. Huge barn and feeding pens. Property may be divided. Call for the details. #604

COMFORTABLE, LARGE & AFFORDABLE This 2 BR 2BA home has 1536 sq ft of living space. Bonus room that can be used as ofﬁce, den or 3rd BR. Great Rm w. split BR plan. Screened backporch overlooks privacy fenced backyard. $179,900 #606

COUNTRY LIVING can be yours in this well maintained 3 bedrm 2 bath block home on 1.2 acres in the Walden Lake School district. Fenced back yard with a detached Garage/Workshop. $225,000. #605

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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PERFECT FIRST HOME Yourʼre family will love this very nice well kept 3 bedroom 2 bath block home with lots of updates. Formal living room & family room with ﬁreplace. Spacious eat-in kitchen. Itʼs yours for just $174,900. Donʼt wait to see this jewel. #608

FIX IT UP OR... tear it down. This 3 bedroom 1 bath frame home needs lots of work. It sits on 2 acres with scattered oaks. Could possibly be divided. A great value for $170,000. Call for location today! #609

2 + 2= 4 You It all adds up to a great deal! Check out this 2 bedrm 2 bath home in Walden Lake. Ready to move into today. New tile, extra large bedrm and a kitchen you have to see to believe. All 4 you for $199,000. Call today for a showing. #611

Beautiful 3 BR 2 BA single family condominum in the gated village of Laurel Lake in Walden Lake West. Impressive entry leads to expansive Great Rm with formal dining rm.. Luxurious mastersuite, vaulted ceilings ,plant ledges. Many more features including a screened lanai with heated pool and spa. $293,900. #610

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 81

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 82

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 83

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 85

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a fair price that can also be easily

to Freemarr Homes, Inc. President

maintained for years to come.”

Barbara Zellmer, “there is truly something for everyone.”

Freemarr Homes, Inc. owners John

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 86

(Tommy) Freeman, Mike Marra

Freemarr Homes, Inc. is a home-

and Bob Riggins, along with a staff

town builder whose owners and

local sales representatives have

Topped off with 30-year dimen-

staff members such as Sales Con-

with the convenience of the nearby

Plant City roots. Tommy Freeman’s

sional ﬁberglass roof shingles and

sultants Paula Davis Meyers and

Interstate system, schools, shopping,

grandfather, F. D. Freeman, was one

wrapped with a complete landscape

Abby Richardson. This ranges from

restaurants, churches, hospitals and

of only three local builders in Plant

package that includes Floratam

selecting the model home that is the

health care facilities.

City in the 1950’s. Tommy himself

sod, the Freemarr home stands out

“best ﬁt,” to choosing the colors that

attended Turkey Creek High School.

among the rest.

suits your style and taste. Step into

Freemarr Homes, Inc. plans to start

the “Color Room” located inside the

pre-selling its newest Plant City

Mike Marra moved to Plant City at a young age, where he eventually

Walk inside the Carmelia and you

Freemarr Homes, Inc. model center

community, Walden Pointe, located

raised his family. Trapnell Ridge’s

will ﬁnd the ﬂoor covered in high

and you will see an array of the

at Charlie Grifﬁn and Mud Lake

Sales Consultant, Abby Davis

quality stain-resistant carpeting,

many choices they have to offer.

Road this fall. The community will

Richardson, raised seven children in

along with ceramic tile. The home

Plant City and has over 30 years in

boasts 9’4” volume ceilings that are

Freemarr Homes, Inc. also offers

featuring Freemarr’s higher-end

general real estate sales. Her daugh-

ﬁnished with a beautiful “Spanish

prospective homebuyers a variety

homes.

ter and Freemarr Sales Consultant,

Lace” design. Pre-wiring for tele-

of settings in which to live. This in-

Paula Davis Meyers, is a Plant City

phone, TV, cable, fans and security

cludes the newly developed Trapnell

For more information please contact

native and is actively involved in the

systems are also included in every

Ridge Community located just out-

Freemarr Homes, Inc. Sales Consul-

community as a Plant City Chamber

Freemarr Home. The Carmelia’s

side Plant City off Lone Oak Road.

tants Paula Davis Meyers or Abby

of Commerce Ambassador.

deluxe kitchen includes custom oak

Trapnell Ridge couples the beauty

Richardson at (813) 752-8607 or

42” ﬂat panel cabinets, double stain-

and peacefulness of the country

email Paula.meyers@freemarr.com.

Sales Consultant Paula Davis Mey-

less steel sink, Delta chrome faucet

ers described how each model was

and GE range with hood along with

named for either a member of the

a pot scrubber dishwasher. The

owners’ or staff members’ family.

Carmelia’s luxurious master bath

The award winning Carmelia is an

includes a garden tub and custom

example of just that. The home is

enclosed shower. All bathrooms

built as either a 3 bedroom with

include custom oak ﬂat panel vani-

1,550 square feet of living area or

ties, porcelain lavatories with Delta

a 4 bedroom with 1783 square feet

chrome faucets, beveled mirrored

of living area, both with 2 full baths

medicine cabinets, full width vanity

and comes standard with many

mirrors, and ceramic tile ﬂooring.

encompass 137 single family lots

features which are often considered upgrades by other homebuilders.

The owners and staff at Freemarr

Energy efﬁcient, The Carmelia is

Homes, Inc. also appreciate the

built of cement block construction,

individuality among each and every

with a fully textured cementitious

new home owner. This is why they

ﬁnish and Sherwin-Williams paint.

offer specialized services through

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 87

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 88

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 89

MONEY

INVESTING

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM Submitted by Edward Jones

Talk to Your Adult Children about Estate Plans W “Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation.” – Brian Tracy At Edward Jones, weʼre grateful for your business and look forward to continuing to work with you to create and implement investment plans designed to help you achieve your long-term ﬁnancial goals.

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813 / 759 - 1491

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Of course, it may not be as agreeable to discuss estate plans with your children as, say, talking about your granddaughter’s soccer game or your grandson’s role in the school play. And you may have to recognize that your children, even though they’re adults, feel uncomfortable in discussing topics dealing with estate planning. Such feelings are not uncommon. In fact, less than one in three families has actually had a meaningful conversation on legacy-type issues, according to a study by Allianz Life Insurance Co. Why are people of your generation more at ease in talking about these issues? It’s difﬁcult to say, but it seems likely that greater maturity and a sense of perspective have a lot to do with it.

Michael S. Cameron

��

hat type of legacy would you like to leave to your adult children? Whatever you have in mind, share it with them. By making sure they understand what elements are in your estate plan, you can avoid a lot of confusion, hard feelings and family squabbles when it’s time to settle your affairs.

752-3306

In any case, once you’ve decided it’s time to bring up your estate plans with your children, how should you go about it? Consider easing into the subject by talking about things that may not be so emotionally charged. For example, you might want to discuss your grandchildren’s college education and how you’d like to help pay for it. Or, you might want to talk about a charity you’ve already supported, and mention that you’re planning to remember it in “the future.” Once you’ve broken the ice by addressing these types of subjects, you should find it easier to move into the real nitty-gritty of your estate plans. Tell your children what’s in your will, who helped draw it up and where a paper copy can be found. Better yet, give them a copy of it. If you’ve created a living trust, explain its benefits; i.e., your assets can pass directly to them and other beneficiaries without court interference, lengthy delays and public disclosure.

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Call Hiram 813.716.2416 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 90

Just as importantly, let them know how you’d like matters to proceed if you should ever become incapacitated. Do you want to give one of your children durable general power of attorney to act for you? If so, which child? Explain your decision to all your children. One final word: Make sure your beneficiary designations are updated - and let your children know that these designations are up to date and now take into account all births, deaths and remarriages in the family. Keep in mind that these designations - which will appear on your retirement plans, insurance policies and investment accounts - can supersede the instructions on your will. At first, discussing estate plans with your adult children can seem awkward for everyone. But after a short while, both you and they will feel more and more comfortable in discussing these issues, which are of such great importance to your family.

�� Plant City - “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 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 Plant City.” 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 suffer�� ing with these painful condi�� tions. “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 1-888-238-6541 and listen to the 24 hr recorded message or request it at www.EasyDiscInfo.com Supplies are limited -

ALLCARE REHABILITATION Outpatient Physical Therapy

1214 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, FL Phone: (813) 754-1062 Fax (813) 759-8254 www.allcare-rehab.com

Our Goal Is To Always Exceed Your Expectations For over 16 years the staff at Allcare Rehabilitation has been committed to providing patients with customized physical therapy programs to restore their independence and physical capabilities in the shortest time possible. We use the most up to date techniques, equipment, personalized patient education, and home program instruction to achieve this goal. Whether you are recovering from an illness, injury, surgery or would like to improve your overall health in our Wellness Program, we’re here for you! Allcare has been a teaching facility for over a decade, hosting Physical Therapy Clinical internships from several Bay Area Universities.

~Allcare Rehabilitation, Healing Since 1990 ~ Aquatic Therapy • Sprains and Strains • Bone and Joint Injuries • Auto Injuries • Balance Disorders • Hand Injuries • Neurological Conditions Work Related Injuries • Wound Care • Sports Related Injuries • Spinal Injuries • Pain Management Work Conditioning & Rehabilitation • Wellness Programs I was sent to physical therapy due to severe neck and upper cervical spine pain. I am feeling much better as a result of physical therapy. I can move my neck and shoulders without pain. Allcare is a wonderful therapy center. Iʼve had other times in my life that Allcare has “rescued” me. They are top notch! –V.C.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 91

MONEY

BUSINESS PROFILE

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Sophia Dedon

Plant City Imaging FAST, FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT

hen you get injured, are in pain, or are told you need to have diagnostic imaging, the last thing on your mind is where you will go to get the testing performed. You just really want to know the results. For that reason, Plant City Imaging should be the place you turn for local, fast and dependable testing. PCI specializes in MRI, Multi-Slice CT, Ultrasound, Mammography and X-Ray. Before the time comes that you need any of these tests, you should know that PCI has the quality you are looking for close to home. Although they have been at their current location for nearly ﬁve years, many residents in Plant City do not even realize there is a local business providing these services. It is not necessary to drive to Brandon or Lakeland for diagnostic testing. Speed, without sacriﬁcing quality, is also very important to those at PCI. The staff at PCI is dedicated to providing timely appointments. Usually appointments may be scheduled same day or next day. PCI always focuses on quickly getting results sent out. In most cases, the results can be faxed to the referring physician in a matter of hours after the testing has been completed.

is always available to answer your questions, talk to your physician, or help in any way needed. The staff at PCI is very knowledgeable and experienced, which assists with providing you with the fastest and most accurate care. A concern of many patients when scheduling their diagnostic exam is insurance coverage. You will be happy to know that they accept almost all insurances. Very rarely is there an insurance plan they cannot accommodate. If you are in a situation where you do not have insurance, they realize that testing can be very expensive and offer special discount rates for individuals in such situations, as well as payment plans.

High-Field Open MRI demonstrated by J. Nance, Radiologic Technologist

PCI realizes patients have diagnostic testing because it is needed, so they don’t want to turn anyone away. At PCI, they care about their patients and are always willing to work with them. One of the most beneﬁcial aspects of working with a dedicated diagnostic imaging center is the personal attention and care they can provide.

For those who may have had an MRI performed, you will be happy to know PCI provides an open MRI. They do not have to compromise quality for comfort and convenience, their high-ﬁeld open MRI does it all! If you are uncomfortable with being in an enclosed space, then you will certainly want to schedule your next MRI here.

Where you have your diagnostic imaging performed is your decision. You should seek the experts that you trust. Your physician may recommend a different imaging location in or out of town; however, that does not mean you are obligated to go there. The decision is in your hands. Before the time arises that you must make that choice, know that PCI is here for you. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff will schedule you quickly and provide you with results even faster.

Not to mention, the service that PCI can offer you is better than many because they always have a physician on site. The radiologist

Visit their ofﬁce today at 206 West Alexander Street Suite 1 (near the movie theatre) or call (813) 7501724.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 92

S. Fargher, M.D. one of PCI’s On-Site Radiologist

Multi-Slice CT shown by J. Nance, Radiologic Technologist

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 93

SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photo by Holly Mallalieu

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

DURAN LOWE For the past two years, Duran Lowe has been playing Raider football, and he’s built a reputation for himself as someone who’s not only a good player of the game, but also a good guy outside of it. “Lowe leads by example,” says Coach Kelley about him. “He carries himself well off the field.” As a sophomore, Lowe plans on playing until he graduates. Right now he plays defense on the team. He was lead tackler for the month of October and made three interceptions. “I like playing on a team, and just being on the field with the other players,” said Lowe. “It’s a lot of fun.” Before high school he played for the Plant City Dolphins for five years, so he’s no stranger to team sports. Outside of school and football Lowe likes to hang out with his friends, a lot of which include his teammates. “Sometimes some of the guys will get together and go running,” he said, “for practice.” Lowe plans on playing on the Raider team for the next two years of high school. After that he wants to go to the University of Texas on a scholarship. Besides football, he has the ambition to become a lawyer one day. Next time you’re at a Plant City football game, remember to look for # 34, Duran Lowe! He’s a big contribution to the team, and really does a great job in whatever he does.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 94

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BLOOMINGDALE ...... Just S. of Bloomingdale Ave. 3513 Bell Shoals Rd. .................................645-9292 BRANDON ....................................In Front of Publix 913 W. Brandon Blvd. ................................684-4499 BRANDON ............................. Lake Brandon Village 11393 Causeway Blvd. ..............................643-6944 FISHHAWK ...............................................Fishhawk 16707 Fishhawk Blvd. ...............................654-7991 PLANT CITY ............................Plant City Crossings 2621 Thonotosassa Rd. ............................752-6631

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 95

SPORTS

BASEBALL

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Joe Bowles Photos by Lindsay Bowles

Baseball in the Fall?

KEEPS THEM PLAYING THE GAME THEY LOVE

hile some are putting up their bats and cleats at the end of the summer, others simply take a few weeks off and head back out to the baseball diamond to compete again. Such is the case here in Plant City as fall baseball takes the center stage most nights at Mike Sansone Park. The Plant City USSSA Fall Baseball League is a competitive league sanctioned by the United States Specialty Sports Association, a national youth baseball organization that allows boys and girls the opportunity to stay involved in baseball an additional four months of the year. According to the league president, Bob Mondoux, the league is in the midst of its third season offering nearly 400 ballplayers between the ages of 4 and 14 the opportunity to play the game they love from the beginning of the school year to Thanksgiving. The league is divided into six divisions, teeball, for ages 4-6, machine pitch for players 7-8 years of age, minors for the 9-10 year olds, majors for those ages 11-12, and a new division added this year, juniors, for those 13-14 years of age. The junior division has four teams and the other ﬁve divisions have 6 teams each.

the league. The response was exciting the ﬁrst year and the participation has increased every year since. When asked, “Why have baseball this time of year?” Mondoux replied, “There are a number of kids who are not involved in football or other sports traditionally played in the fall and we wanted to keep them playing the game they love.” Although fall baseball has a competitive feel to it, no scores or records are kept until the playoffs. During the regular season, Mondoux emphasized, “The goal is to have fun.” During the 16-game

At the end of the Little League season three years ago, several parents, along with Mondoux, got together and decided to form

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 96

regular season, the focus is placed on having fun and player development until the double elimination tournament starts in each division. The league has not been without its struggles, especially in two areas; facilities and coaching. Since the league does not own any storage buildings at the park, all equipment and most concession items must be transported in and out of the park each night. There has also been a shortage of coaches. Mondoux added, “We feel like we could have added more teams to the league this year, if we would have had

the volunteers to coach them.” Unlike most states north of us, Florida’s favorable climate allows baseball to be played year-round. This is evident in the activity found at Plant City’s Mike Sansone Park. In addition to Plant City’s USSSA league, there are numerous competitive youth travel teams that call Plant City their home. The Plant City Patriots have six teams in their organization consisting of children ages 8 through 13 that compete with teams all over Florida. Plant City is also the home to the Planters, Red Sox, Outlaws and Renegades. At the present time, Plant City’s USSSA league does not offer girls softball, but girls are not excluded from participation in the league. Several girls play in the USSSA league with the boys. Other girls take the fall off, while many girls participate in one of several travel teams that play year-round. The Sizzlers organization is made up of three teams, the Riptide has two teams and the Pride is made up of girls who are high school age. Mondoux feels that the league will continue to grow each year. The fee of $55 per player, which includes a uniform, is a bargain for 16 games and a year-end tournament. The greater bargain, however, is the satisfaction in seeing boys and girls playing the game they love all year-round.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 97

SPORTS

FOOTBALL

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Joe Bowles Photos by Billy Friend

Plant City High School Raiders WIN DISTRICT FOOTBALL TITLE

These photos were taken at the ﬁrst district win for the Raiders against Brandon

ith half the season behind them and no wins to show for all their efforts, the Plant City High School Raiders football team appeared to be headed for a dismal season until they began to play their district opponents. It was then that the Raiders began playing their best football of the season. Now, instead of a lost season and looking ahead to next year, the Raiders have four straight wins, an unbeaten district record, a district championship, and are scheduled to play the seventh ranked team in the state in the ﬁrst round of the Florida High School football playoffs.

According to head coach Kevin Kelley, the turnaround was the result of several factors. First of all, Kelley was dealing with “a young team that had yet to learn how to ﬁnish a game. They needed to learn to play all four quarters, instead of three.” Secondly, according to Kelley, “We faced a lot of tough talent in the beginning of the year.” Kelly was right. After the Raiders lost a close game to Durant, their next four opponents were teams with winning records that included powerhouses Armwood and Lake Gibson. Thirdly, the coaching staff never gave up. Kelley’s assistant coaches

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 98

have worked hard and made 12 personnel changes, which have resulted in much improved play overall. Plant City clinched a spot in the playoffs in their win over East Bay 23-14. East Bay previously was thought to be the class of the district. “It was a sweet win over a very tough team,” said Kelley. Then, Plant City became District 7A champions with a 20-0 win over Bloomingdale on October 27th. The Raiders’ last regular season opponent was neighboring Riverview High School. With a 7-2

record, Riverview tried to prevent Plant City from running off their ﬁfth consecutive win, but failed. Seventh-ranked Lake Gibson will be the Raiders opening round playoff opponent. Earlier in the year, the Raiders were beaten soundly by the Braves 34-7. But, according to the Raiders’ head coach, “That was a long time ago. We have gotten better. Also, at that time we were without four of our starters.” The Raiders have improved dramatically over the course of the last few weeks. There is no reason to believe that the trend will not continue well into the playoffs.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 99

HEALTH

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Submitted by Dr. Jeﬀrey Dunn

The ABC’s of Cosmeceuticals: BLENDING SCIENCE WITH SKINCARE

The search for the perfect face cream - one that will help your skin look youthful, flawless and radiant can be mind-boggling. Alpha, beta, acids, vitamins and derivatives….all these words sound more like stuff in a science experiment than lotions or creams for your skin. Lately, science and research have become our best friends in the quest for healthier, younger looking skin. Strong physician-grade “cosmeceuticals” are emerging on the market with dramatic results in skin care. Prices are similar to those of department store cosmetic lines, yet cosmeceuticals often contain effective, more concentrated ingredients than those over-the-counter products. Cosmeceutical product lines, such as Jan Marini Skin Research, PCA Advanced Skin Care and Skinceuticals, are found in physician’s offices or medi-spas and can vary in purpose, ingredients and strengths. Below are some of the latest ingredients in skin care products that may benefit your skin: AHA - Alpha Hydroxy Acids – While all AHAs (also known as fruit

acids) are skin exfoliators, each offers additional beneﬁts. Both lactic acid and glycolic acid hydrates and evens skin discoloration, although glycolic acid penetrates quickly and more effectively. Citric acid prevents and corrects the thinning of skin associated with aging. Products containing alpha-hydroxy acids may help with ﬁne lines, irregular pigmentation and age spots, and may help decrease enlarged pores. Beta-hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid) Salicylic acid dissolves dead skin cells and impurities within the skin. It penetrates oil-laden hair follicle openings, breaking down and reducing blackheads and whiteheads. Antioxidants - Antioxidants are a group of vitamins, minerals and enzymes that repair and prevent cell damage and premature aging caused by free radicals. Green tea contains EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), considered the most powerful antioxidant polyphenol. It protects the skin from UV induced damage and is being studied very carefully for possible anti-tumor and anti-cancer capabilities. Another antioxidant,

soy, contains isoﬂavones that plump and hydrate the skin, ﬁght aging and wrinkle formation and halt the free radical damage that speeds the aging process.

lines and wrinkles, and helps lighten dark spots, freckles and sun damaged skin. Dramatic improvement in skin smoothness, evening of skin tones and overall skin rejuvenation also results. Retinol also is used to condition the skin prior to many cosmetic procedures such as facial surgery, CO2 laser resurfacing and chemical peels.

Vitamin C - Vitamin C Studies show that vitamin C stimulates collagen production and helps minimize ﬁne lines, scars and wrinkles. Be choosy when selecting a vitamin C product. Vitamin C in its most commonly found forms is highly unstable when exposed to oxygen, making it useless. Also, many topical vitamin C preparations don’t penetrate the skin enough to make a difference. Ascorbyl Palmitate is a lipid (fat) soluble form of vitamin C that has been proven to penetrate the skin very rapidly and intersperses with the cell membrane, resulting in outstanding antioxidant beneﬁts and helping to prevent cellular aging.

Hydroquinone and Kojic Acid Skin care products containing hydroquinone and kojic acid (popularly referred to as lightening agents) are used to lighten hyperpigmentation, such as age spots and dark spots related to pregnancy or hormone therapy.

Retinol - Studies show retinol works as effectively as another retinoic acid compound, Retin-A™, yet does not produce the same skin sensitivity, irritation and redness that Retin-A™ typically causes. Retinol helps regenerate collagen to reduce

Dr. Jeffrey Dunn, D.C. is the owner of Remedi MediSpa & Chiropractic Center.

Still have questions? A consultation with a skin care specialist, such as a physician or esthetician, can prove invaluable in choosing the best products for your skin’s individual needs.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 100

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 101

HEALTH

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Submitted by Sherry Nueesch

Mastering the Art of Salad Dressings about the author Nina Plank and her book, “Real Food, What to Eat and Why”. She grew up on a farm in Virginia. Before I even got the book I liked her already. I also grew up on a farm in Virginia. Nina created farmers’ markets in London and Washington D.C., and ran the New York City’s famous Greenmarket. She has written “The Farmers’ Market Cookbook.”

ast month I wrote about making good chicken and beef stock for soups and recipes that call for broth. I got a lot of good feedback from women who really got a lot out of the article. One lady shared with me that she “felt good” making something home-made that was so healthy. She was proud of herself. I know the feeling. This month I want to share some recipes and teach you how to make good home-made salad dressings. I am going to share with you writings from two very knowledgeable experts in the field. Sally Fallon writes in her book, “Nourishing Traditions”, the following: “It is certainly true that we should avoid all bottled and commercial salad dressings, which are invariably made with cheap, low-quality oils that have been stripped of their nutrients and rendered dangerously rancid by hightemperature or solvent extraction processes. Bottled dressings are further adulterated with many ingredients that should not pass between human lips, including stabilizers, preservatives, artificial flavors and colors, not to mention refined sweeteners. These expensive blends of empty calories are bad for everybody, young and old, and should not be allowed in our cupboards. But home-made salad dressings, made with extra virgin olive oil plus raw vinegar or lemon juice, are the best coat that any selfrespecting salad can put on.” The Tampa Tribune recently wrote

She writes, “The queen of vegetable oils, olive oil, is the most famous fat in the world, with a long, glorious history in cuisine and special status in many cultures. Olive oil is one of the first foods Italian babies eat, and one of the last foods offered to the dying. The evergreen olive tree grows all over the world, from Tunisia to California to Australia, and can still bear fruit at the grand age of one thousand years. Olive oil is a staple food in Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, where most of the world’s olive oil is produced. Its flavor is complex and varied—sometimes grassy and peppery, sometimes buttery and smooth.” “Olive oil is also very good for you. It is rich in vitamin E and other powerful antioxidants called polyphenols: both nutrients prevent heart disease and cancer. By preventing oxidation, they also keep the oil itself fresh. Olive oil inhibits platelet stickiness, lowers blood pressure, and reduces inflammation. Olive oil has a good reputation with cardiologists because it is 70 percent monounsaturated oleic acid, which lowers LDL. Olive oil is about 14 percent saturated palmitic acid, which has a neutral or beneficial effect on cholesterol. Palmitic acid lowers LDL.” Good salad dressings take very little time to make. With practice you won’t even need to measure the ingredients after a while. I have learned to adjust up or down the amount of vinegar or other ingredients to suit my taste. Let’s start with a basic dressing. Use 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Add 2

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 102

tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon of raw vinegar. Mix well. Next add _ cup olive oil and 1 tablespoon of ﬂax oil slowly, in a steady stream to the mustard and vinegar mixture. Drizzle the oil slowly as you wisk. This will emulsify the oil and vinegar mixture. This dressing is ready to go. You can add herbs to the basic dressing. One of my favorites is to add a clove (or two) of garlic. You can also smash in some real blue cheese to the basic dressing. You can use balsamic vinegar instead of raw vinegar. Both of the above authors recommend raw vinegar because it is loaded with enzymes which help you digest food. Since salads are eaten at the beginning of the meal, this is a real good idea. My favorite Caesar dressing is this one. Measure _ to 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Add 1 tablespoon of raw vinegar and 1 tablespoon of lemon

juice. Next, add 1 tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese. Next add _ cup of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of flax oil, 1 egg yolk and 2 anchovy filets. The recipe calls for one clove of garlic, I use 4 or 5. I like garlic!!! Place all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Mastering the art of making good salad dressings is a smart choice. Olive oil is good for you. Make it a part of your daily diet and reap the health benefits. If you are watching your calories, you can still enjoy good dressings. Use them sparingly or become a fork dipper. Dip your fork into the dressing and then into your salad. Better yet, eat the dressing and skip the chips, bread, crackers and croutons. Food is medicine. Learn to eat to live and not live to eat. As always, I leave you with my wish, to your health, Sherry Nueesch.

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Vickie Tew and Bill Saunders

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 103

HEALTH

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Submitted by John C. Carrozella, M.D.

Osteoporosis – The Other Silent Killer I

magine, walking from your car into the local Wal-Mart. You feel great, but without warning, your right foot slips, you hear and feel a loud CRACK that came from your hip. Down you go; you’ve fallen and you really cannot get up. Next stop – the emergency room. If you are over 65, postmenopausal, thin and a smoker, you most likely suffered a fragility fracture of the hip. Fragility fractures occur as a result of Osteoporosis, a very common, yet easily diagnosed and treated problem that has become a very serious health concern in the United States today. The scope of the problems related to Osteoporosis is staggering. Nearly 8 million people have Osteoporosis and another 21 million have reduced bone density that is not yet severe enough to be categorized as Osteoporosis. In women alone, nearly 20% of post menopausal women suffer from this silent afﬂiction and more than 50% have reduced bone density. Osteoporosis is currently the reason for millions of fractures of the hip, forearm and spine annually leading to a medical burden on society of nearly $17 billion. Yet it is not the fracture alone that is the problem. With advanced Orthopaedic care available today, nearly all of the fractures

themselves can be successfully treated. It is the complications from these injuries and their treatment that causes the greatest amount of death, suffering and economic loss. As many as 20% of patients, who have suffered hip fractures, caused by Osteoporosis will die within one year of their fracture. Many people will require long or short term nursing care after their acute hospitalization. In fact, nearly 40% of patients who have had hip fractures will experience a serious and permanent reduction in their activity level following treatment of their injury. Spine fractures can also be related to Osteoporosis. They too can lead to significant problems that include chronic back pain, activity limitations, breathing and other health problems, and death. And while not as serious, fractures of the wrist, forearm and ankle can often lead to significant functional disability after they are treated. So who gets Osteoporosis? While white women are at the greatest risk, others including men can get Osteoporosis as well. The most significant risk factors include age over 65; previous history of a fracture as an adult, history of Osteoporosis related fractures

in close relatives; body weight less than 125 lbs.; smoking; and chronic steroid (cortisone) usage. Secondary risk factors such as impaired vision; early menopause (estrogen deficiency); dementia; poor health/frailty; history of repetitive falling; low physical activity; low calcium intake; and excessive alcohol use. In addition, a variety of medical conditions and medications are associated with Osteoporosis. Despite being a problem with such serious consequences, Osteoporosis remains a seriously under diagnosed problem in the Unites States. The fact is, this is a silent problem, not known until someone so afflicted, suffers a fragility fracture. By then it is too late. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, as well as many other medical societies, have determined that Osteoporosis is a serious an imminent health concern. With a heightened awareness, more and more doctors are on the look out for patients who may be at risk for Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is discovered by doctors who identify those patients who may be at risk. Once identified, by asking appropriate questions about their health and medical history, patients can

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easily be screened by a safe, fast, simple and painless test known as a Dual X-Ray Absorbtiometry (DEXA Scan). This is a test that takes about 10 minutes to complete. Patients lie on an XRay table and a simple X-ray scan is done. Computer analysis of the X-ray will then indicate the degree of bone mass and whether or not it is indicative of Osteoporosis. Based on the test results, the doctor will recommend no treatment; observation with re-testing; or Osteoporosis treatment. The exact treatment can be a simple as calcium supplementation, Osteoporosis medications (such as Fosamax); or more signiﬁcant medial treatment for the more serious causes of Osteoporosis. Once the treatment of Osteoporosis is begun, patients will be monitored for improvement (usually by follow-up DEXA scanning at annual or biannual intervals). As Osteoporosis improves, the risk of Osteoporosis related fracture diminishes. (Some of the material and statistics contained in this article were obtained from the National Osteoporosis Foundation at http:// www.nof.org/physguide

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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

Team Physician for Florida Southern College National Healthcare Referral Network for USA Gymnastics & USA Swimming American College of Sport Medicine

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 104

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 105

EXTRA

AUTO REVIEW

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Story by Brian West Photos courtesy of Toyota

SE V6 interior

6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shif

Push Button Start standard on Hybrid and available on XLE

Toyota’s Camry Is Still Leading the Competition THE CAMRY’S REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND RELIABILITY LIVES ON

t’s been a few years since Toyota unveiled a major body change to their ﬂagship vehicle, the Camry. But the wait seems to be well worth it. The 2007 version of the Camry looks to continue Toyota’s dominance of the past several years. The new Camry has been the bestselling car in America for 7 of the past 8 years, which is a pretty big title considering the competition; the Nissan Maxima and the Honda Accord. The Camry has 5 different models to chose from; the CE, LE, SE, XLE, and the Hybrid, with the XLE being the top-of-the-line model. The Hybrid is just as nice as the XLE, but with the best fuel consumption of the Camry models – an estimated 40mpg – and a heftier price tag; high $20K’s to mid $30K’s on the MSRP. The XLE was the focus of our review, and it was even better than expected. The exterior of the new

Camry has smoother, more rounded corners, and a front end that models the Toyota badge work well. The headlights of the Camry seem focused as they ﬂow into the corners and trail off onto the front quarter panels. In the rear, the tail lights bend downward to the back center of the trunk. The proﬁle seems to be a bit stockier than previous versions, and it seems to contribute to an even greater perception of headroom on the interior. I always get a little kick from the color names for new vehicles and the Camry didn’t disappoint me. There are 10 colors to choose from with names like Blue Ribbon Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic, and Jasper Pearl. The 16” 8-spoke alloy wheels compliment the exterior very well. If wheel size is important to you, a 17” version is available on the SE model, which is the sporty version of vehicles in this class.

Always conservative in styling, the interior of the 2007 Camry is a clear attempt to broaden its appeal for the next generation. The ﬁrst thing you’ll notice is the styling of the seats. There is a large v shape in the stitching of the upper portion of the seat with a single stitch down the center, which provides a sleek look. One feature found more often on pricier vehicles is the push button ignition – part of Toyota’s Smart Key System, hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth, and an auxiliary audio jack. The trim package is wood grain with chrome accents, which always looks good with leather. Legroom in an interior is important in the back seat. I’m about 6’1” and after adjusting the drivers seat to be comfortable for me, there’s still more than enough room in the back seat for a person my size or larger. Four 6-footers could ride in comfort in this Camry.

The interior of the new Camry looks just as good as the exterior.

Under the hood, the 2007 Camry XLE comes standard with a 3.5-liter

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 106

DOHC 16 valve V6 engine that produces 268hp. The acceleration was more than ample for merging into trafﬁc, or even passing the occasional tractor on the back roads of Plant City. The 6-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) slides through the gears effortlessly. The Camry continues to impress with the ability to shift manually through a fully automatic transmission. The all new 2007 Camry is a joy to drive. The handling is tight and responsive and the ride is very smooth. When you consider all the features offered with the Camry, it’s a deal that’s hard to beat. No wonder it’s been America’s top selling vehicle for the past several years. Expect that trend to continue. The model I drove was loaded, with an MSRP of $34,755. If you’re interested in a new Camry, visit your local Toyota dealer.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 107

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AL RUECHEL

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By Al Ruechel

On being late to work! It always amazes me what stories get the most reaction. Lately it’s any story that involves WalMart. Yes, I do shop there on occasion, know people that work there, have made some good and bad purchases. I don’t go there too often because I tend to get mobbed, even when I wear my baseball cap and muscle shirt disguise. I digress. The big squabble this time is a policy at Wal-Mart that allows employees to be 10-minutes late three times a month before any punitive action is taken against them. After that you get some kind of demerit, earn enough demerits and you can get the soft boot out the door, though it’s not guaranteed. Having never worked at the big W, I don’t know if this policy is an undercover way of getting rid of problem employees or just giving management some tools to control tardiness. Every place I’ve ever worked had an on-time policy. We also had a policy if you were going to be more than 10 minutes late you made a courtesy call. It’s worked great. BUT, I also make it a point to be early as many times as I am late to show my employer I appreciate a tiny bit of flexibility when fighting traffic each weekday. It’s kind of a “you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours” sort of thing. So, the question is this: Is it wrong for companies to have on-time policies? How can you say no? If it were your company

would you put up with your employees showing up at 10:05 if the company was supposed to open its doors at ten? And shouldn’t you have the right to get rid of chronically late employees? Okay, maybe a little more ﬂexibility would be nice. Yet, it was my father who always reminded me that being able to work for someone is not a guaranteed right, it is a privilege. Yes, the companies have to follow certain rules to make sure they treat everyone the same, but apart from that, keeping me on their payroll is their decision to make based on sound business practices. Just for fun I’ve taken one of my non-scientiﬁc polls in the aisles of my grocery store. This is the only true, dependable, unbiased source or opinion that I trust these days. I never pay my respondents and to date no one has tried to bribe me with cookies or ice cream or anything like that. All but 2 of the 14 people I talked with had a problem with the policy. None of the people I talked with had ever lost their job for being late, or at least would admit to it. While being water boarded, all confessed to me that they had been late a time or two and had received mercy. So, why the anger toward WalMart? I will not pretend to understand. Some folks say it’s because Wal-Mart isn’t unionized and hires a lot of folks on a part time basis. I know some small town businesses are liter-

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 108

ally driven out of business when Wal-Mart moves into town. At the same time, I hear the locals telling me how much they appreciate having a wider selection of goods at lower prices. Maybe it is because they are so stinking successful and so big, the rest of the world has to pick on them… just because. It’s like the government, the indeﬁnable “them” lurking in the shadows waiting to squash us. Who knows? And just to prove to you that I am not all holier than thou when it comes to being on time I have a confession to make. I was supposed to have this commentary done several days ago. My publisher has chosen not to punish me or give me demerits or anything else that might upset my otherwise delicate constitution. We have this great understanding. Of course, the dozen roses, Godiva chocolates, and tear-stained note begging for forgiveness I sent them doesn’t hurt.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 109

EXTRA

TRAVEL

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Story by Daniel Sperry Photos Courtesy of Florida Flywheelers

Little Known Florida Attraction Draws Big Crowds AND CELEBRATE THE CHANGE IN SEASONS

members who spend their time year-round collecting and restoring antique steam engines, tractors and accumulating books and other materials which can be preserved and displayed for future generations.

A special train was built by the Flywheelers to give kids a lift behind a working antique tractor

nyone who is looking for something different to do this fall and winter should take a closer look at the Florida Flywheelers. Located in Ft. Meade, just a half hour’s drive from Plant City, this park is only open for a few amazing events each year. Located on 240 acres of land, the village and park buildings are all pre-1950 style, and were built by volunteers. Every year since 1997, when they purchased the majority of their land, the park has hosted shows which feature antique tractors, engines and other mechanical tools which have had an impact on agriculture and society. The goal of the Florida Flywheelers is to preserve a part of American heritage for all future generations and historians to enjoy. Since they started more than 20 years ago, they have enjoyed huge success. People come from across the country to see the shows, camping at sites in the park grounds.

The 2006-2007 season began on November 8th with the 11th annual Fall Fuel Up, featuring an antique engine and tractor show. In addition to exploring the old farm equipment, there will also be an antique ﬂea market and the Old Village will be open. Visitors who have paid the $5 admission fee will be able to walk around and through 48 buildings that have been constructed to replicate commonly used historical buildings.

The Flywheelers are always looking for people to become members, so anyone who has an interest or passion for old vehicles, tractors and antiques is encouraged to visit their website and contact them about getting involved with the group. They promise that anyone who gets involved will have more fun than they ever imagined. In January, from the 17th-20th, the 20th Annual Antique Engine and Tractor “Swap Meet” will be held. This event focuses on people with a love for antique engines and tractor parts and will feature many exhibitors selling and trading antiques of all kinds.

This is an event that promises to be fun for the entire family and it will be easy to spend an entire day enjoying the festivities. Kids will especially love the tractor pulls and anyone who loves history will be thrilled to observe the working saw mills. The ﬁrst show ran from November 8-11 and there were parades each day. The Old Fire House opened to the public and there was a special display of Model T’s and other old cars.

The ﬁnal show of the season will run from February 21st-24th. This will be another feature-packed event with a special emphasis on MasseyHarris tractors and equipment. This year, the Florida Flywheelers are hosting the 2007 Massey Exposition of North America, and expect the turnout to be especially high.

The Flywheelers’ park and events are managed by Flywheeler

All the buildings, mills and garages

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 110

will be open and functioning and there will be Antique Tractor Parades in addition to all the other flea markets and village events. For an attraction that will keep the attention of the entire family for at least an entire day, it is hard to beat the Florida Flywheelers’ park. Its $5 per person admission is a small price to pay for a local Florida destination that has been thrilling visitors for decades. Florida Flywheelers is located at 7000 Avon Park Cut-Off Road, in Ft. Meade. More information can be obtained by calling (863) 2859121 or by visiting their website at www.floridaflywheelers.org.

Determination shows as a girl pushes the pedals on an antique toy tractor

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 111

D&E

DINING REVIEW

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Story and Photos by Holly Mallalieu

Munchies

NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA AND ORIGINAL RECIPE WINGS mild, honey barbequed, or spicy, you’ll go crazy here.

Wing lovers everywhere! You’ll want to read this. In fact, if you’re a fan of good food in general (and who isn’t?) Munchies, one of the newest additions to Plant City’s growing array of restaurants, should be your very next out-toeat (or ordering in for that matter) choice. The other day a friend of mine ordered pizza, and when it arrived in a box labeled “Munchies,” I had to question. I hadn’t heard of the place, and frankly I thought he was simply trying to save a few bucks by ordering generically. I took a slice anyway…it was delicious. It wasn’t just because I was so hungry, or even because it had my favorite toppings—no; Munchies New York Style pizza was really some of the best I’d had in a long, long time. I wasn’t left in the dark about the restaurant for long. For only being here approximately two months, news of the restaurant has spread fast. And it’s no question why. Different from your other pizza places where breadsticks, salads, and, well, pizza are your only choices, Munchies offers a huge variety of selections. Gyros, burgers, shrimp, pasta, quesadillas…and the list goes on, even with various types of each option. It’s hard to believe it’s all under one roof. Talk about your one-stop meal—everyone can get what they’re in the mood for at Munchies.

Sal, who is originally from New York and owned another restaurant there for 11 years, is the owner of all four locations of Munchies. These are in Brandon, Seffner, Tampa and right here in Plant City. All of his recipes are made from the very best spices and sauces, and he does not skimp on anything. “I guarantee if you try the wings, you’ll come back,” he promises his customers. I’ll vouch for that. Their wings are deﬁnitely what could make Munchies famous. I split a 10-piece basket of mild ($6.15) along with my medium pizza ($9.50) and I’ve already promised myself I’ll be back soon. Their wings are delivered fresh, not frozen, every day, and are deep fried and cooked in an original sauce. It’s delicious. You won’t even need a moist towelette on hand nearby; they’re surprisingly non-messy! The restaurant won Greater New Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s Best Wings contest back in 2002. If you love wings, be they

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 112

Munchies has been featured in many papers for its wonderful food and pleasant atmosphere. In an intimate location with a few tables and a television set, you’ll be comfortable sitting down and eating there. But don’t hesitate to order take out, as well. They’ll deliver any day, and anything on the menu is perfect for whatever occasion. But, the “must-tries” are, of course, their pizza and wings. Be careful: these are the kinds of things that, even when you’re sickly full, you just can’t get enough. Overeating may be unavoidable. The family restaurant has been around since 1990, and it’s obvious the cooks have had experience in perfecting their platters. Be sure to stop by soon. Munchies is hands-down a wonderful place in town to ﬁnd a great meal.

CRITICAL INFO MUNCHIES PIZZA & WINGS 1707 Jim Redman Pkwy. 813-757-5900 Open: Mon.-Thurs. 11 am-10 pm Fri. & Sat. 11 am-11 pm Sunday 12 pm-10 pm No children’s menu Visa, MasterCard, & personal checks accepted Price range: $1.25-17.95

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 113

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 114

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All photos are for illustrative purposes only

FLORIDA’S TRACTOR HEADQUARTERS - SALES - SERVICE - PARTS

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 115

D&E

ENTERTAINMENT

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Story by Daniel Sperry Photos courtesy of the Ramada Inn Plantation House

Beach Music Surges Through Ramada Inn Plantation House BILL DEAL’S RHONDELS PERFORM IN PLANT CITY

ill Deal and the Rhondels have been recording beach music since 1969. After Deal passed away unexpectedly in 2003, the rest of the original band made the decision to continue to perform and carry on Deal’s dream. On October 28th, they made a stop at the Ramada Inn Plantation House and performed to a sold-out crowd. “I absolutely love them,” said one guest. “They remind me of the Beach Boys, only better.” With three songs that have made it into the top ten, the Rhondels have performed in nearly every major city in the United States, traveling from coast to coast. Their performance in Plant City was a highlight of the year for many local residents.

“I’ve Been Hurt,” was nominated for Song of the Year. Deal’s organ solo in Jimmy Soul’s “If You Wanna Be Happy” has been featured in several movies, including Good Will Hunting, Grumpy Old Men and Mask. “I didn’t know they did music for soundtracks in movies,” said Angela Sparring. “I’ll have to check them out.” Some of their more recent songs were included on the soundtrack for the movie Fargo.

“I love their choreography,” said Jim Blass. “They use lots of brass and the vocals are terriﬁc. I’ve been a huge fan for years.”

Arriving from their homes in Virginia Beach, the Rhondels took to the stage in Plant City to thunderous applause and immediately launched into some of their biggest hits. The crowd was on its feet for much of the concert, and even people who were not familiar with their music were enjoying themselves.

The Rhondels’ hits have made it to number one internationally in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Spain and Germany. In Mexico, their song,

“I had never heard of them before,” said Danny Jordan, a 24-year-old Plant City native. “Someone gave me tickets.” By the end of the

Jokes and one-liners in between songs had the crowd as well as the band laughing and having fun throughout the concert

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 116

concert, Danny was converted and ended up purchasing several of their CD’s. “The songs sound like I should know them,” he said. “I feel like I’ve heard them before, but I just don’t know where.” The concert took place after dinner was served in the Red Rose Dining Room, and during most of the performance, the dance ﬂoor was packed with couples. In recent years, there has been a surge of popularity in vintage beach music, and the Rhondels have capitalized on the trend. “We are seeing a lot more young people at our shows,” said Brian Bleakley, who does vocals and plays trumpet in the band. “Our shows are usually sold out everywhere we go these days.” The band featured Brian Bleakley on vocals and trumpet, Peter Pope on keys and vocals, Steve Ambrose on sax and vocals, Wayne Kessinger on baritone sax and vocals, Dean Englert on trombone and vocals,

Gary Hardy and Rollie Ligart on trumpet and vocals, Bruce Harlowe on guitar and vocals, and Sonny Morris on drums and vocals. In addition to some of their biggest hits, they performed numbers from their newest CD, “Spinnin’ Round.” The night was full of electricity and energy as the Rhondels performed without interruption for more than an hour and did several encores. “I hope they come back next year,” said one person. “This was the best concert I’ve been to in a really long time.” More information on the Rhondels is available at their website, www. billdealsband.com. T-shirts and CD’s can be purchased at the website and a list of upcoming concerts is also available. The Ramada Inn Plantation House regularly hosts concerts and events like the Rhondels. More information on upcoming events can be found at www.ramadaplantation.com.

With their upbeat music and great harmonizing, the band kept the dance ﬂoor full all evening

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 117

D&E

MOVIE REVIEWS

By Brandon Hyde

1 Star - Don’t even bother 2 Stars - If you’re really bored and have nothing else to do 3 Stars - A deﬁnite movie rental, unless there is something better 4 Stars - Don’t pass it up 5 Stars - See it now!

Flushed Away Starring: , Kate Winslet, Ian McKellen, Andy Serkis Genre: Family and Children, Animation, Comedy, New Release Rated PG Rating: 4.5 stars

With the joining of two humor giants, Aardman Features (Wallace and Gromit) and DreamWorks Animation (Shrek) comes the tale of a pampered pet mouse who is ﬂushed down the toilet and plunged into a world that strangely feels like home. The characters — which include amphibians, insects and rodents — are charmingly conceived and voiced by an all-star cast, such as Hugh Jackman, Kate Winslet, and Ian McKellen to name a few. He may be a mouse, but Roddy St. James lives in a home in London’s upper Kensington neighborhood and has a luxurious life far removed from the usual vermin habitat. When his family goes on vacation, he plays at being James Bond with the other toys, speeds about in a toy car and generally lives it up. But unlike Toy Story and other cartoons, inanimate objects here don’t talk. Suddenly a sewer rat named Sid comes up through the plumbing. The

rattled Roddy tries to get rid of Sid, but his ingenious plan is quickly foiled, and he is flushed away. At the end of his sewer journey, he enters a lively metropolis that mirrors our own. He meets a feisty rat named Rita, and a cruel gangster, The Toad, targets both Rita and Roddy and their boat, the Jammy Dodger. Determined to end the world of rats, Toad enlists his French cousin, Le Frog to capture the one person who can halt his plan, Rita. From there the humor does ensue. Between shots of screaming slugs, and rambunctious rats, this film delivers on every level. If you are a parent looking for a way to bring everyone together, just flush away. The cleverly rendered Flushed Away reminds us that animated films don’t need to be dumbed down to reach young viewers. Audiences finally have a family film that manages to intermix slapstick and wit, as well achieve inventiveness and lovable characters.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 118

Borat

Cultural Learnings... Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen, Ken Davitian, Pamela Anderson, Pat Haggerty Genre: Comedy Rated: R Rating: 2 Stars

Well, supposedly the funniest ﬁlm of the year. I’m still not quite sure I was in the right theatre. A low style of humor and a low style of acting culminate to make this ﬁlm gross and somewhat repulsive.

Marie Antoinette

The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause

Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Jason Schwartzman, Judy Davis, Rip Torn Genre: Drama Rated: PG-13 Rating: 2.5 Stars

Starring: Tim Allen, Martin Short, Elizabeth Mitchell, Judge Reinhold Genre: Comedy, Fantasy Rated: G Rating: 3 Stars

A mix of Leonardo Di Caprio’s Romeo and Juliet and A Knight’s Tale. Those two films however, are good films. It seems as if the writer (Sofia Coppola - Lost in Translation) still has yet to grasp how to make a movie flow effectively and at a good pace.

Here we are again, Tim Allen as the ever-lovable elf, St. Nick. With very little fresh comedy this movie leaves the audience wishing for the real Chris Cringle to arrive so they can skip the rest of the movie. Good for the kids, expect about the same as the ﬁrst two.

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813-300-4763 • 813-757-0140 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 119

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

Giraldo’s 2210 N Park Rd 754-4810

Maryland Fried Chicken 315 N Alexander 752-9200

Snellgrove’s Restaurant 109 S Collins 752-3652

Grandpa Johnsons BBQ 1305 Dr MLK Jr Blvd 759-0009

Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant 2613 Thonotosassa Rd 752-0057

Sonic 2901 Jas Redman Pkwy 754-0300

Hole In One 410 N Alexander St 754-8062

Munchies 1707 James Redman Pkwy 757-5900

Hong Kong Buﬀet 213 Alexander St W 764-8255

Nana’s Deli 111 W. Reynolds St 659-4542

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

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

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

China One 1862 James Redman Pkwy 707-8898

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

Olde Town Pizzeria 3011 James Redman Pkwy 752-5800

Church’s Fried Chicken 106 E. Reynolds 754-5200

Jamrock Caribbean Cuisine 1803 Jas Redman Pkwy 719-7625

Orange Blossom Tea Room 106 Evers St S 759-2247

Collins Street Restaurant 712 S Collins 752-0126

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

Chancy’s Catﬁsh Shack 2509 N Park Rd 754-3433 Checker’s 2405 Jas Redman Pkwy 759-0151

Anna’s Restaurant 3410 Baker St W 754-6215

CiCi’s Pizza 211 Alexander St W 659-3400

Apple Tree 2218 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-8109

Chili’s Bar & Grill 3001 Jas Redman Pkwy 764-8548

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar 1204 Townsgate Ct 719-1500

China King Restaurant 2410 James Redman Pkwy 754-8098

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 Bobber’s Beach House Seafood 226 W Alexander St 719-8187 Bogey’s Restaurant 2001 Clubhouse Dr 752-1171 Brooklyn Bridge Deli 1309 S Collins St 659-3621 Buddy Freddy’s Restaurant 1101 Goldﬁnch Dr 754-5120 Chicano’s Tex-Mex Restaurant and Cantina 110 E Reynolds St, Suite 100 754-5083

Courtyard 106 E. Reynolds Street 754-0990

Kazbor’s Grille 2212 James Redman Pkwy 752-2700

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

Kentucky Fried Chicken 2305 Collins St S 752-0437 La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant 113 Prosser Dr W 659-3940

Dairy Queen 1902 W Reynolds 752-2236 Denny’s Restaurant 2001 Frontage Rd S 752-3338

Linda’s Crab Shack 202 Reynolds E 754-0492

Domino’s Pizza 202 Alexander St W 759-9424 El Mirasol Bakery Cafeteria 1419 Collins St S 752-2108 El Rincon Mexicano 4109 State Rd 574 754-0620 Fred’s Market Restaurant 1401 W Dr MLK Blvd 752-7763

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Lin’s Express 2307 Thonotosassa Rd 719-6066 Long John Silver’s Seafood Shoppe 1805 Jas Redman Pkwy 752-1717 Manatee Bay Café 119 S. Collins S 707-1450

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 120

Southern Bells Tea Room 2214 Thonotosassa Rd 754-5683 Strawberry Hut Sandwich Shoppe 1505 Wheeler St N 752-3779 Strawberry Town 3161 Paul Buchman Hwy 754-8265

Outback Steakhouse 1203 Townsgate Ct 759-4329

Sub Club 110 E Reynolds St, Suite 500 707-8606

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

Subway 2305 Thonotosassa Rd 754-4550

Pesos Mexican Restaurant 2006 Reynolds St W 752-8841

Subway 2403 James Redman Pkwy 754-4878

Pizza Hut 2316 James Redman Pkwy 752-8222

Subway 2209 N Park Rd 659-0288

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

Twistee Treat 2301 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-9303

Ponderosa Steak House 1914 Jim Redman Pkwy 754-1129

Waﬄe House 1201 Townsgate Ct 707-0190

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

Westshore Pizza 1701 S Alexander St 754-5600

Quiznos 1818 James Redman Pkwy 719-2999 Ramada Inn Red Rose Dining Room 2011 N Wheeler St 752-3141

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

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 121

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PLANT CITY November 18,

SATURDAY

Event Calendar November 17,

Friday

Teen Night will be held at the Plant City Family YMCA for ages 10-15 beginning at 7 p.m. There will be a DJ, games, prizes, food and more. It is open to the public. There is a $6 admission fee. For more information, call the YMCA at 813-757-6677.

November 17-18, Friday- Saturday

Every year thousands of people come from all around to sample a taste of the best barbeque in the area. The 4th Annual Pig Jam will be held at the Randy Larson ﬁelds behind the Plant City Stadium. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. people from all over the country, even some guests from Canada, will be competing for the best barbeque in four categories: chicken, ribs, brisket and pork. Professionals are all vying for their share of the $15,000 in cash prizes. The Champion will receive $3000 and the Reserve Champion will receive $2000. Parking is $3 per car, but admission is free. Guests can purchase Pig Bucks, which can be used to purchase some of the great barbeque featured in the competition. There will also be more than a dozen amateurs competing along with the nearly 50 professionals. When asked why the Chamber of Commerce puts on this annual event, President Marion Smith said, “We try to put on events that will bring people to the area who may have never been before. We believe that when someone comes to Plant City once, they will want to come back.” Not only will there be delicious barbeque, but also plenty of entertainment. There are activities for kids, as well as adults, including two live bands. The Crisis Band, a band with a southern rock sound, will be performing from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and Buck Hummer & the Pick-Ups, a country band, will be performing from 2-5 p.m. Whichever type of barbeque is your favorite, you certainly do not want to miss the opportunity to enjoy the Pig Jam 2006. “Expect to leave smelling like barbeque,” said Smith, “If you like barbeque, this is the place to be.”

Plant City Entertainment Inc. presents their ﬁrst play of the season, “God’s Favorite,” a Neil Simon comedy that retells the Old Testament Book of Job in a hilarious modern-day setting. When the show ﬁrst opened on Broadway it starred Vincent Gardena in the role of the hapless Job (now “Joe”) character and Charles Nelson Reilly as the Messenger from God. The play will be held at the Plant City campus of Hillsborough Community College, in the auditorium located in the Administration building. All performances begin at 8 p.m. H.C.C. in Plant City is at 1206 N. Park Road. Ticket prices are $10 General Admission, $8 Seniors 55+ and students through 12th grade. Group rates are available and can be secured by calling Hardee’s Fashions at: (813) 7544929.

November 18, Saturday

The Flamingos will be in performance at the Ramada Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room. They will be performing such hits as “I Only Have Eyes for You,” “A Kiss from Your Lips,” and “Nobody Loves me like You Do.” For tickets call 813752-3141, visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com or contact Ticketmaster.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 124

The 4th Annual Plant City Pig Jam will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Randy Larson Four-Plex. There will be over $15,000 in prizes awarded. There will be professional, amateur and kids competitions. Bring the entire family and come sample great barbeque from around the country! There will also be live music and plenty of activities for kids. For more information, please call 813-7543707 or 1-800-760-2315. You may also visit www.PlantCity. org or email info@plantcity.org. From Pinecrest School’s early beginning in 1936 as a “Strawberry School,” many changes have taken place in our community. However, pride in our school, community and our country remain an important part of our heritage. Join your family, friends, neighbors and former classmates from 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Pinecrest School. They will have a delicious barbecue lunch, entertainment and fun reminiscing about the past. Pre-order your barbecue lunch for $5 starting Tuesday, November 7th in the Pinecrest Elementary School Ofﬁce. A limited number of lunches will be available the day of the event. If you have any questions, please contact Pinecrest Elementary (813) 7448164.

November 25, Saturday

Strawberry Square, located at 4401 Boot Bay Road is hosting a Thanksgiving Plus Square Dance from 7-9:30 p.m. The caller will be Art Springer and the cuer will be Ruth Cunningham. Throughout the month, Strawberry Square offers all levels of square and round dancing. For more information call 813-752-0491 or visit the website at www.ﬂoridadanceweb.com/strawberry.

PLANT CITY December 9,

SATURDAY

November 26,

Event Calendar December 15,

Sunday

FRIDAY

The Exotic Bird Yard Sale will be held at the Ammerman’s on Charlie Taylor Road from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 813-752-2230.

November 30, Thursday

The Lights of Love Tree Lighting will be held in historic downtown Plant City at McCall Park at 6:45 p.m.

December 1,

Plant City Children’s Theatre presents The Nutcracker at Tomlin Middle School at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. For 11 years, Jackie Everidge has been carrying on this tradition to provide a special holiday event for the Plant City Community. So many people from the community combine to make this a successful event. Tomlin Middle School generously provides the use of their auditorium. Funding is provided from the Arts Council of Hillsborough County and Hillsborough County Commission. Underprivileged children have the opportunity to attend the performances because of the support of the Publix Supermarket Charities. The silent auction, held one hour before the show, beneﬁts the Plant City Children’s Theatre programs and college scholarships. Donations from private individuals and businesses are placed in baskets and auctioned off. This year some of the items include tickets to Disney World, Busch Gardens, Universal Studios, the Outback Bowl, and Cypress Gardens, as well as footballs autographed by the Buccaneers. Purchase your Nutcracker tickets in advance by calling 813-752-1683 after 4:30 p.m., or at Jackie’s Dance Theatre at 507 N Wheeler St. Group rates are available. At the door, tickets are $10. “This is such an exciting part of the year,” said Jackie. “We love being able to present this ballet.”

Friday The Christmas Parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. Come join the community as organizations display holiday ﬂoats and hand out candies and beads. It’s always a place for great family fun. This year it is starting at the Planteen on Dort Street and ending at the courthouse.

December 1-January 1

The Christian Community Chorale will have their Christmas performance at St. Clement Catholic Church located at 1104 N. Alexander Street beginning at 8 p.m. The performance is titled Celebrate the Night: A Musical Celebration of the Night of our Savior’s Birth. The Christian Community Chorale was formed six years ago by directors, Richard Pipas and Richard Grant, and performs two concerts each year. The chorale is comprised of about 60 singers from various area churches. Their mission is to foster a stronger sense of Christian community within all denominations, and to allow people from all denominations to share in the musical celebration of their common Christian heritage through their performances. You will hear old Christmas favorites like Bing Crosby’s White Christmas, O Holy Night, Silent Night, and Joy to the World, but you will also enjoy some old fashioned spirituals, such as Bethlehem Hallelu. “The Chorale will present an hour of great Christmas music, all designed to prepare for the joyous season of Christmas, when God gave us the gift of His Son,” said Joyce Nestor.

T-ball registration will be available at the Plant City Family YMCA for ages 6-13. The season is from January 13-March 3. It is free for YMCA members and only $45 for non-members.

Betty Olson at (813) 752-4104 or bolson@fbcpc.com.

December 2,

Dr. Jeffrey Dunn invites the public to attend Remedi MediSpa & Chiropractic Center’s Holiday Open House from 4 to 7 p.m. Enjoy wine and festive hors d’oeurves, tours of the medispa and information sessions about Remedi’s various beauty and health services. Each guest will receive a complimentary gift, may register for a door prize and can take advantage of special discounts available that evening. Remedi is located at 1701 S. Alexander Street in The Village of Walden Lake shopping plaza. For more information please contact Remedi Spa & Chiropractic Center at (813) 7522440.

Saturday

Bike Fest will begin at 5 p.m. in Historical Downtown Plant City. For more information call the Chamber of Commerce at 813754-3707.

December 3,

Sunday

First Baptist Church of Plant City will hold an International Mission Rally, beginning at 4:30 p.m. and lasting until 6:15 p.m. in the church’s Fellowship Hall. For more information, contact

December 8,

Friday

December 9,

Saturday

The Florida Opry will be in performance at the 1914 High School Community Center. The show begins at 7 p.m.

December 9-10,

Saturday-Sunday

Eastside Baptist Church in Plant City presents A Christmas Prayer, beginning both nights at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call (813) 754-2681.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 125

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • November 15, 2006 - December 15, 2006 • PG 127