FOCUS PC 06-01 Jan 2007 by Floyd Publications

FOCUS MAGAZINE

LOCAL • REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS • SPORTS • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT

VOLUME 6 NUMBER 1 • january 15, 2007 - february 15, 2007

focus magazine in retrospect

VOLUME #1

January 15, 2002 - January 15, 2003 • 848 pages / 105 local stories / 356 total stories

6,416 pages VOLUME #2 in 5 YEARS 855 local stories in 5 YEARS VOLUME #3 2107 total stories in 5 YEARS VOLUME #4 Thank You for 5 great YEARSVOLUME #5 January 15, 2003 - January 15, 2004 • 1093 pages / 130 local stories / 368 total stories

January 15, 2004 - January 15, 2005 • 1440 pages / 228 local stories / 476 total stories

January 15, 2005 - January 15, 2006 • 1446 pages / 214 local stories / 470 total stories

January 15, 2006 - January 15, 2007 • 1589 pages / 178 local stories / 437 total stories

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 2

WE ARE YOUR HOMETOWN DEALER! LOOKING FOR A CAREER IN THE CAR BUSINESS? NOW HIRING SALES PEOPLE!

OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW

ALL DEMO’S & 06’s MUST GO! “We’ll never lose your business over price”

‘04 FORD F-250

‘06 CHRYSLER 300

‘03 BUICK REGAL

‘04 GMC YUKON

XTRA CLEAN!

BLACK BEAUTY!

POWERSTROKE DIESEL

LOADED!

ONLY 37K MILES!

30,995 35,995 11,995 19,995

301

JOE PLATT EXIT

I-75 SUN CITY CENTER

BRANDON

PRICES PLUS TAX, TAG AND ALL APPLICABLE FEES.

I-4

HWY 60 RIVERVIEW

CONGRATULATIONS TO JOE PLATT! OUR NEW SERVICE MANAGER. HE DESERVES IT! STOP BY AND HAVE A CUP OF COFFEE WITH AN OLD FRIEND

PLANT CITY

APOLLO BEACH

HWY 39

www.LottMather.com 2900 James Redman Pkwy. Plant City (866)

377-0868

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 3

JANUARY 15 - FEBRUARY 15, 2007

feature

local

44-48

NESS PROFILE

Fresh Herbs

URE HOME

alty shows off a Walden Lake beauty

URE ARTICLE

Doubles

sports

88 & 90 [FOCUS

dining & entertainment

102-115 [

MONTH

This is a feature unlike any Focus has done in the past. We give you a peek at the history of Floyd Publications as a whole, and let you hear what the community says about Focus Magazine. In celebration of our 5th Anniversary, we thank all of you for your support!

We give you an update onPLANT CITY SERVING how the Durant Cougars Although we always give you, MONTH and the Plant City Raiders our reader, a detailed dining AL NEWS Boy’s Basketball teams are nd Happenings Around Plant City review each month, don’t COVER: BILL DODSON doing this season. From NESS NEWS PHOTO: MIKE FLOYD forget that we offer a complete Related News and Financial Columns all the current stats of the dining guide in this section, as RTS games to details on specific hool Athlete of the Month/East Bay Raceway well! This month, our review is players, if you’ve missed a US HOME GUIDE rs, Sellers & Owners on the newly opened Carrabgame this season, read this ba’s. When you finish reading, article to get yourself back you’ll know what you want for in the loop. We also give dinner tonight! We also tell you you the skinny on one of the all about the festivities at the star players for the Raider Ramada Inn for New Year’s Eve. Soccer Team.

LIGHT INTERVIEW

business proﬁle Blackburn Realty

102 ...........Dining Review 104 ...............Just for Fun 106 ...........Entertainment 108-109 ... Movie Reviews 110 ............ Dining Guide 113-115 ...Event Calendar

7-38

It’s a new year, and there’s lots going on in Plant City! From stories about child prodigies to the results of Junior Royalty, there are some great kids in this issue! With Valentine’s Day soon approaching, you’ll want to check out our preview of the up-coming Bachelor Auction, and also our article on where you can get the best Valentine’s Gift, right here in Plant City.

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

spotlight

52-54

Our Spotlight Interview this month is with our 2006 Strawberry Festival Queen, Miss Hannah Hodge. She shares her wonderful memories of the past year, her plans for the present, and her dreams for the future. Thanks for putting your all into representing Plant City this year, Hannah!

BUSINESS & FINANCE

HEALTH

82 .......Edward Jones Article

92 ....................... Dr. Dunn 94 ............... Sherry Nuesch 96 ..................Dr. Carrozella

HOME GUIDE

EXTRAS

59 ....... Cover-Natalie Sweet 76 ....... Walden Lake Review 78 ........... Real Estate Article

ON THE COVER FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 4

Five Years in Retrospect.

98 .................. Auto Review 99 ..................... Al Ruechel 100 ..........................Travel

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 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Emily Allen Kristel Williamson OFFICE MANAGER DeDe Floyd dede@floydpublications.com CREDIT MANAGER Bob Hughens bob@floydpublications.com SALES Tania Summers tsummers@floydpublications.com Erica Snyder esnyder@floydpublications.com ART DIRECTOR Stefanie Burlingame sburlingame@floydpublications.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Anthony Sassano asassano@floydpublications.com DISTRIBUTION Tony DeVane PHOTOGRAPHER Billy Friend Harry Jeffcoat 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, Al Ruechel, Shelton Keely, Michael Cameron, Bruce Rodwell FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at sdedon@floydpublications.com. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed to 10,000 homes.

published by:

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

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 5

letter FROM THE EDITOR

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead

As we enter into a new year, and thanks to you, Focus Magazine enters into its sixth year, we’d just like to say thank you for the support this community has shown us since we began. As most of our advertisers have been with us since the beginning and, thankfully, our readership continues to grow, we have taken time to reflect on the richness of our community and the way we’ve been embraced since we started. I have to admit, being originally from Tampa, I had many doubts when the prospect of a community magazine for Plant City first came up a little over six years ago. In my naiveté, I even made fun of the idea, saying, “What goings-on are there to report on in Plant City?” Like I said, I was very naive about this community. But the publishers went forward, one having been born and raised in Plant City, and the other marrying into that family and buying their second home in the community at that time. I was told that I’d be surprised what goings-on there were, how the people cared for each other and helped their neighbors, how the many charities were mostly supported by Plant City residents, and about the pride that its residents had in their community. Well, as the local section in this issue alone is proof of, there certainly are a lot of goings-on in Plant City. With the Strawberry Festival coming up, our town is nothing but a flurry of activity. I now know from experience that next month’s Festival is one of the top 75 of such events in the entire United States! I also know from experience that our entertainment story about the New Year’s Eve extravaganzas at the Ramada Inn Plantation House is proof that Plant City is home to one of the area’s best entertainment Mecca’s! When I first left my job of 21 years to come to work for Focus Magazine over two years ago, one of my dear friends from that job rode with a couple of our ad advisors over a week’s time to see if that would be something she’d like to do. As it turned out, she decided to stay where she was, but the experience she had with the “small town” community left her with a permanent yen to make her home and raise her children right here in Plant City. Our town is on the verge of a residential building boom, the likes of which it has not seen before. With subdivisions going up like North Park Isles, Eagles Crest, County Line Farms, Eastland Estates, and the largest, Lakeside Station, I wonder how much longer we’re going to remain a “small town.” We’re not only experiencing a residential building boom, but a commercial one, as well. But I do find comfort in the fact that it is the mindset of the residents in any community that makes it what it is, not the number of buildings. I also am warmed by my recently-gained knowledge that my very dear friend realized her dream to live in Plant City. Last August, she and her husband bought a home right off of CR39, within the city limits. That’s the kind of impact this community has on big city folks, myself included! Thanks for the last five years, and may we have many more together!

Linda Floyd

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 6

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

TALK

of the

town

Closing Cermonies) competition for Sub-Districts on Tuesday, Dec 5th at First Baptist Church of Dover. Districts will be held January 19th. Great job to all, and good luck as you progress further! The Plant City Optimist Club presented a $500 check to Steppin’

ongratulations to the Raider Wrestling Team, who finished 2nd out of 12 teams at the Invitational Wrestling Tournament on December 9! Congratulations to the Turkey Creek FFA Officers, who won 1st place in the OCC (Opening and Stone Farm on December 18. The Optimist Club supports the Farm both financially as well as through member events. Since 1978, the club members and their families bring a Christmas gift for the 27 residents and 12 staff members as well as finger foods for a meal. Over 60 members and family members attended, enjoying fellowship with the girls and a visit by Santa. Thanks to the Optimist Club for their support of our community! Steve Shouse, one of our own Edward Jones representatives, has accepted a limited partnership of-

fering in The Jones Financial Cos. Edward Jones currently employs more than 30,000 associates in all 50 states and through its affiliates in Canada and the United Kingdom. Under the current partnership offering, 12,000 associates received initial limited partnership offerings or were invited to increase their existing ownership in the firm. “I am honored to be offered this limited partnership. It is a privilege to become part owner of a firm that is so well known and well-respected throughout the financial services industry,” Shouse stated. And we congratulate you on your success, Steve! Thanks to Wal-Mart, who donated $1,300 to allow the YMCA to

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 24. Focus Magazine cares about you and wants to share in your excitement.

Marking (assistant manager), Scott Warren of the YMCA, and Kerrie Gafford (general manager). Also thanks to Alcoa Industries for donating $5,000 to Unity in the Community, for use towards supplies for the organization’s recently purchased concession stand. Joyce Jordan accepted the check on behalf of Unity in the Community, in the photo seen here.

purchase and install a 35’ flagpole and flag. The pole and flag will be dedicated at the YMCA’s 5th Anniversary celebration on Saturday, February 24th. Pictured are Jay

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 7

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Cheryl Johnston Photos by Donna Bettis

Hole in One

4-YEAR-OLD COLE HAS A GOAL! is as patient and encouraging of his brother as Matt and Tifaney are because he sees Cole’s unusually intense passion. Cole, who turns ﬁve in April, can’t yet tie his shoes, but he can drive a golf ball 125 yards with almost no effort.

“Get in the hole” might seem an odd phrase to yell around a 4-yearold, but when you’re watching young Cole Cothren chip a golf ball onto the green, it’s the cheer of encouragement he loves most. A video game, The Golden Tee, introduced Cole to his passion when he was just 2-1/2 years old. His parents, Matt and Tifaney Cothren, fondly remember him imitating the golf swing, dressed only in a Tshirt, diaper, and no shoes. Older brother Jacob took his golf clubs along when the family enjoyed a ride in the golf cart on Sunday afternoons. Cole wanted to be like Jacob, so he started bringing his clubs, too. Jacob, now 7, has since moved on to soccer and baseball, but Cole remains interested only in golf. There was never a doubt that Cole possessed extraordinary

Talk about focused

Cole has the winning grin down pat

talent. At age three, he began lessons at Walden Lake Country Club with Walter Burrell from the Dent Bradshaw School of Golf. Soon after the lessons began, Mr. Bradshaw, who is the 2004 and 2006 PGA Teacher of the Year, said Cole was the most talented and intense child golfer he had seen.

nament, where he hopes to qualify for nationals.

Cole’s big blue eyes see only golf!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 8

At age four, Cole entered his first tournament in Orlando, competing with 6-year-olds. On the first hole, Cole chipped the ball in for a birdie on a 150-yard, par 4 hole, as his proud parents caught the moment on video. He shot 47 in the 9-hole tournament and won his first medals and trophy. His mother searches the internet for tournaments and competitions. He currently plays the Greater Orlando Junior Golf tour and is looking forward to the 2007 Tampa Tour of the U.S. Kids Golf Tour-

Cole has incredible drive and passion for golf. Tiger Woods is his hero, so he insists on wearing Nike clothing and hats everyday. He will not golf in shorts because Tiger never does. Tifaney special orders his clothing since it’s not always readily available in the small sizes a 53pound boy would need. Of all his toys at home, he prefers the junior sized golf clubs. Standing in the family room, he practices his swing over and over. He’s never broken anything inside the house, but once outside he drove a ball through a window. On weekday mornings, Cole attends the First Presbyterian Learning Center. Every afternoon you’ll ﬁnd him, with mom and brother in tow, at the golf course. Jacob

For a special treat, stop by the Walden Lake driving range or putting green some afternoon to watch this young golﬁng phenomenon. He’ll be the little man in the Nike slacks, shirt, shoes, and hat, chipping the ball into the hole or one-putting. The big grin on his face might also give him away. If you really want to see him smile, just yell, “Get in the hole!” Cole has a goal, so don’t be surprised if he isn’t a junior golf champion within just a few years. Intensity like his should overwhelm most competitors, so keep an eye on this young talent. He’s sure to make Plant City proud.

Four-year-old Cole defeated the 6-yr-olds in an Orlando tournament

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 9

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

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

Chamber of Commerce HAPPY NEW YEAR! As we start off the New Year, let me once again repeat something you can do to help your organization. Please call the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce ofﬁce at (813) 754-3707 when your organization is planning an event. It will then be placed on the COMMUNITY CALENDAR. This accomplishes two things: 1. You will be able to determine if your date conﬂicts with another planned event and 2. This process lets our Chamber members and the community at large know of your event so it can be talked about and promoted. If you are in charge of your club’s or group’s publicity, make this a New Year’s Resolution.

Nizamoff, Administrative Coordinator; Nancy Benedict, Communications Director; Susan Wilson, Membership Director; Jane Gonzalez, Tourist Information Coordinator and Al Collinge, Tourist Information Specialist. In addition, the Chamber has Fran Johnson and Ralph Ambrose who coordinate the Tourist Information Center on Park Road near the interchange at I-4.

children alike will truly enjoy this fun ﬁlled event. For the admission price of $10 for adults and $5 for children, you will enjoy a great dinner and the show. Dinner will be served at 1:00 PM, followed by the show. You will not want to miss this event. Reservations are required. Call Michele Pruyn at 754-3519 to order tickets.

The Chamber has three web sites: www.plantcitychamber.org www.plantcitychamber.com www.plantcity.org Should you have need to make contact via e-mail, the address is: info@plantcity.org

Did you know that AARP conducts a Driver Safety Program right here in Plant City? It is presented at the Bruton Memorial Library. For information on the course call 813757-9215 or stop by the library and pick up a brochure which describes the program in detail.

★★★★★★★★★★

Mark your calendars for the Annual Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce 2007 Chairman’s Banquet. This great event will be held at the Ramada Inn Red Rose Ballroom on Thursday, January 25th. The festivities get underway with a reception at 6:30, followed by dinner at 7:15 and the program at 8:00 PM. This is your opportunity to meet the new Ofﬁcers and Directors. The new incoming Chairman of the Board is Doug Gibbs, Immediate Past Chairman is Danny Coton, Chairman Elect for 2008 is Mark Bullard, Treasurer for 2007 is Bill Ulbricht. The new Vice Chairman for the Division of Growing Businesses is Charles Harris, Vice Chairman of Community & Governmental Affairs is Ed Verner, Vice Chairman of Membership, Rick Lott and Vice Chairman of Economic Development, Doug Driggers.

The Bruton Memorial Library has another great program coming up in their continuing series, “Right Before Our Eyes: Florida’s Changing Landscape in Fact, Fiction and Song. On Thursday evening, February 8th at 7:00 PM, Dale Crider will present a program entitled “Where Have All the Flowers Gone.”

★★★★★★★★★★

Directors for 2007 are: Al Berry, Rick Bunnell, Jennifer Closshey, Kerrie Gafford, Paul Hackney, Dr. Felix Haynes, Tim Lopez, Gail Lyons, Bruce Rodwell, Chris Sparkman, Joe Williams and Lee Williams. The Staff of the Chamber includes: Marion Smith, President; Amy

The survival of Florida’s endangered and threatened species depends primarily upon the survival of their habitat. After three decades working to save endangered and threatened species for the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, wildlife biologist and folk singer Dale Crider now works to save them through his musical messages. Mr. Crider blends straightforward lyrics into bluegrass, folk and gospel rhythms to illustrate the impact that Florida’s progress and development have had on our natural resources. ★★★★★★★★★★

On Sunday afternoon, February 11th, The First United Methodist Church will present an event at the Wesley Centre. Featured will be Magician/ Comedian Scott Huston. Adults and

Do your children like to bounce? If so, you are in luck. One of our newest members is Kidsz Bounce Zone, located in the Kash N’ Karry shopping Center on Alexander Street. Natalie and Bill Rayburn own and operate this family oriented children’s play and party center which features inﬂatable bounce houses, giant slides, obstacle courses and even a build your own collectable stuffed animal area. They host birthday parties, team parties and daycare activities. Call them at 813567-0269. ★★★★★★★★★★

A tip of the Chamber hat to Myrle Henry. He keeps bringing in great entertainment for the Florida Opry series, which are presented at the 1914 High School. On January 27th the featured performers are Brian Chytka, The Gospel Truth Quartet and Jenny Rimmer. These are wonderful family shows. Reserved seats are $15 and general admission tickets are $12. The doors open at 7 PM. You can call Myrle for additional information at 813-752-4094.

With the Strawberry Festival just around the corner, you may have out of town friends coming who will need a place to stay. Check out another of our members, Holiday Inn & Suites on Park Road. This four story, interior corridor hotel features 70 rooms, including 16 one room suites, all with free high speed internet access, meeting rooms, an outdoor pool, exercise room, guest laundry and a complimentary Express Start Breakfast Bar. To make reservations call them at 813-719-3800. ★★★★★★★★★★

Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to get started on the road to a healthy 2007? A new you? Here is a date for you: Monday, January 22nd. On this date, our Plant City YMCA will host an open house and health fair. Times are 9 AM to noon and again from 4 to 7:30 PM. This is a great way to get the New Year off to a great start! Stop by the open house for demonstrations and information about all the new programs and activities that will take place at our Plant City YMCA during 2007. You know all the reasons how regular exercise benefits you: weight loss, lowering your cholesterol, improving your mood and the list goes on and on. There will even be drawing for great prizes during this event. Ask about the hot new fitness program called ZUMBA. You can dance your way to a fitter you with exciting and unique Latin moves and rhythms. They will have you shaking your hips and clapping your hands. Information on YMCA programs and questions regarding membership can be answered by calling 813-757-6677.

★★★★★★★★★★

SUPPORT OUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS. BUY THEIR PRODUCTS AND USE THEIR SERVICES. IT JUST MAKES SENSE! FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • 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 • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 11

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Holly Mallalieu Photos by Harry Jeﬀcoat

Junior Royalty Pageant

AGES 5 THROUGH 15 COMPETED FOR CROWN

(Left to right) Newly crowned Baroness Kiersten Struth, Queen Rebekah Snapp, Princess Kelsey Brown and Duchess Kaylan Kelly

ith all of the construction and upcoming developments being built in Plant City lately, they may as well throw together a building strictly for pageants while they’re at it. Sometimes it almost seems reasonable to think that no other small town loves its beauty contests as much as this one does. If you’ve ever attended one (and ignorantly did not purchase a ticket

before-hand!), you know directly how long the wait can be; about comparable to, say, getting into the Late-Night show in New York City without calling a year ahead of time. Pageants are big here, and they’ve been a part of this town’s tradition for so long that they’ve become one of our wonderful trademarks.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 12

It’s no doubt that so many little girls in Plant City dream of becoming Strawberry Queen one day. And while that pageant may be, of course, the biggest of all around here, there are tons of contests held that are open to every age in the meantime. One of them is Junior Royalty; a pageant that has been around since the 70’s and is getting more exciting every year.

This year’s competition was held on January 6th at Tomlin Middle School. Donna Keel, Chairman of the event, headed it up, along with Co-chairman, Krystal Almon, and committee members Rebecca Robinson and Mary Buzza. The evening began at 6 p.m. and went nearly until, let’s just say, past a few of the younger contestants’ bedtimes. But needless to say, it

LOCAL

JR ROYALT Y

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 was hard to pay attention to the time as the night went on. The anticipation of who would be crowned in each different category of the competition mounted higher and higher as each girl, all of them looking beautiful, took to the stage. Junior Royalty is divided into four different categories, separated by age groups. Thirty contestants were previously drawn at registration for each division. First to be seen are girls ages 5-6. The winner of this category is crowned the “Baroness”. Following the Baroness contestants are Duchess, ages 7-9,

Princess, ages 10-12, and, ﬁnally, the Queen, ages 13-15.

to pick a top ten to continue in the competition.

After introducing last year’s court members, the event began with a run-through of each contestant, giving the four judges, as well as the excited crowd, a look at the girls and an idea of who they were. As they walked across the stage, the night’s MC’s, Andrew and Jeanne Knotts, announced each girl’s age, school, parents, and three things that they enjoyed doing. As every contestant looked smashing and did a wonderful job, it was a very tough decision on the judges’ part

“Plant City is famous for its strawberry shortcakes; what would you like to be famous for one day?” This was the question of the night for the girls who made it into the next round. Each was to come prepared with a response to give - and what a variety of answers there were! From rock-stars to doctors to becoming the ﬁrst female president of the United States, each age group gave well-spoken and thoughtful remarks.

Although all of the girls did a fantastic job, only four could take home a crown that night. First runner up for Baroness was Chloe Tew, and the winner was Kiersten Struth. Kaylan Kelly was Duchess, with first maid Deanna Rodriguez. Kelsey Brown was Princess with first maid Madison Astin, and the night’s Queen was Rebekah Snapp with first maid Kaitlyn Gill. The entire pageant was very exciting and everyone did an excellent job. Congratulations to the night’s winners. They’ll certainly have a year they won’t forget, being Plant City’s royalty!

The 2007 Junior Royalty Court celebrates with the 2006 Florida Strawberry Festival Court

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 13

LOCAL

��

TELL YOUR TALE

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Holly Mallalieu Photo courtesy of Stephanie Brownlee

� ��

�� Longtime Teacher �� in Plant City ��

��

Animal Wellness Center ��

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

3109 SR 574 West (813) 752-2869 www.animalwellnesspc.com

Dr. Jennifer Conner

STEVIE BROWNLEE IS ONE OF THE BEST

t’s hard to choose one person out of so many to put the spotlight on. Luckily, there are so many great people in Plant City that a “bad” decision is difﬁcult to make. Stephanie, or “Stevie” as she’s better known, is just one of the wonderful people around here. With her father in the army when she was a girl, Brownlee moved around quite a lot, residing in many different places. As a child she lived in Hawaii, Japan and Germany. Finally, in 1960 she landed in Plant City, Florida (along with Hurricane Donna!), where she’s been ever since. It was here that she met her husband, Jerry, and the two were even married in St. Clements Catholic Church. Teachers are some of the most important people in the world, and Mrs. Brownlee is one of the very best around, getting her talent from her father, Erwin J. Franco, who believed in “life long learning” and taught at Hillsborough Community College until he was 79. She began her career after graduating from the University of South Florida, and since then she’s taught Kindergarten through Junior College.

substituted for a while at various elementary schools in the county, but ﬁnally settled at Jackson Elementary here in Plant City, where she has taught Kindergarten for the past 38 years. “I’ve never dreaded going to work,” she says. Mrs. Brownlee loves her job, and gets excitement and joy from seeing children learn. Of her class this year she says, “I have wonderful students.” Because of Mrs. Brownlee, so many students have had a great beginning with school. Many recall their Kindergarten learning and fun activities and the time she spent making sure each child got the attention and encouragement they deserved. Now on her third generation, she’s deﬁnitely impacted many people’s lives and we’re so fortunate to have her as part of our town.

Children, however, are her specialty. She Stephanie Brownlee FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 14

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Cheryl Johnston Photos courtesy of Melanie Bettis

Hometown Heroes

PLANT CITY BOY HONORED AT ANNUAL TAMPA BANQUET

ids can be heroes, too! Each year local radio station, Spirit FM 90.5, shines a light on children who reach out to help someone else. On December 7th, they hosted the annual Tampa banquet to honor children nominated by friends, family, neighbors and teachers. Each “hero” could invite three adults. As they arrived, valets parked cars while the kids toured four limos. Photographers constantly snapped photos, making the children feel like “stars.” Jake Bettis

Heroes strode onto red carpet with red velvet ropes

marking the path. A vintage theater marquee announced, “2006 Kids are Heroes.” Printed programs listed each one, but the best part was hearing their own name called by the Tampa Bay Lightning’s game announcer. During dinner, Mr. Fritz’s “One Man Circus” entertained with jokes, juggling and bowling. After dinner, Nolan Pratt, Lightning defenseman Kids are Heroes spokesperson, gave each child in the three age categories a trophy and certiﬁcate, as their heroic story was shared. Examples of bravery and sacriﬁce included donating hair to “Locks of Love,” earning honor roll status at school, saving a sibling’s life, and generosity.

Plant City’s hero, Jake Bettis, was honored for quickly reacting to help the opposing team’s catcher at his baseball game. The catcher was hurt when struck by the ball. Unprompted, Jake dashed to the dugout for ice and a Gatorade. When asked later about his response, he replied, “It’s what I would have needed if I’d been hit.” His teacher at Lincoln Elementary, Gloria Hastings, enjoyed watching one of her special students be recognized. Jake’s mother, Melanie Bettis, and grandmother Donna Bettis, couldn’t have been prouder. “He’s a great kid and he loves to ﬁnd ways to help others,” said Melanie. Thank you, Jake Bettis and Spirit FM. Honoring heroes is good news!

2005 Finalist SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Brandon Chamber

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 15

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Kristen Toney

Sweets for the Sweet

LOCAL IDEAS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY TREATS

or those of you who haven’t moved as far into your calendars as February, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. February 14 is the day, and gentlemen, this is a BIG day for the women in your lives! There is NO excuse for a lapse in memory on Valentine’s Day! Here in Plant City, there are many things to choose from when trying to make your honey happy on this special day. Although diamonds are a girl’s best friend, flowers work well, too. Brown’s Floral Shop has the best arrangements in town, and their courteous staff will work wonders in your favor.

If your lady prefers the diamonds, or any specialty jewelry for that matter, pay a visit to J&G Jewelers or Brown’s Jewelers. Their expertise will help you find the perfect gift, even if you’re clueless upon first entering their stores. If it’s fine food that tickles her fancy, there is no finer place to dine in the entire Tampa Bay area than the Red Rose Dining Room at the Ramada Inn Plantation House. Under a starlit-sky, enjoy their superb entrees and fantastic live music. And you can’t lose with a gift certificate to one of our fine spas or salons, such as The Artistry, A Healthy Glow, Remedi Spa & Chiropractic Center, Becoming Mobile Day Spa, Martin’s Place, Merle Norman, The Place for Hair, Nails & Skin Care or Tip to Toe. No matter what, she’s sure to receive something she’ll use! (Ladies, many of these salons offer special packages for the gentlemen in your lives, as well!) With the above information and a bit of thought, this Valentine’s Day is sure to be one you’ll remember for a lifetime!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 16

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Young Artist

PAINTS WITH PURPOSE AND MEANING deep emotional human feeling. Showing his diversity as an artist, Rothman has been working on a painting reminiscent of the Renaissance era. As a student of art, he states his deep appreciation for the masters of that time. He also ﬁnds inspiration from artists such as Gerhard Riechter, who is known for artwork that is surreal and abstract. Recently, Rothman was chosen out of hundreds of other artists to display his work at the annual Gala Corina held in Ybor City. Attracting artist of all genres and drawing thousands of art lovers, his artwork was widely viewed and acclaimed by many. Artist David Rothman stands in front of self portraits expressing a range of human feeling and emotion.

n the process of meeting many of Plant City’s talented artists, it is astounding to come across a young individual who has dedicated himself to the study and application of art as intensely as David Rothman. Such dedication is immediately evident as one views Mr. Rothman’s paintings. As a recent graduate from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor in Fine Arts, many hours of study, application and practice stand behind him. What began as a love of art and drawing as a young child has since developed into a lifelong passion and pursuit. Rothman began his studies six years ago at UT and plans to continue his studies at USF with the goal of receiving his Masters. Throughout his studies, Rothman’s concentration has been painting and ﬁgure drawing. Many of his paintings reﬂect a deep desire to explore the depths of people and their emotions. Using self portraiture, he has displayed himself in paintings that are intense in their nature and depict

It is Mr. Rothman’s hope and desire to one day travel the world, capturing images and expressing those moments of time in paintings. It is evident if Mr. Rothman applies himself toward that dream as well as he has applied himself to the pursuit of art, he will no doubt succeed.

FINANCIAL PLANNING • ONLINE BILL PAYMENT •

Life is filled with

Surprises-

keeping you prepared is why

We’re Here!

CREDIT • DEBIT • DIRECT DEPOSIT AND MORE!

Story and Photos by Heather Davis

HOME FINANCING • SAVINGS • CHECKING •

LOCAL

Experience financial services designed specifically for young adults and new families at your Credit Union. www.rifcu.org

813-621-6661

LAKELAND • PLANT CITY • RIVERVIEW TAMPA • TEMPLE TERRACE • VALRICO ��

��

Untitled painting that leaves is up to the viewer’s imagination and a recent painting reﬂecting work of the Renaissance era.

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 17

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Emily Allen and Kristen Toney Photos by Kristen Toney

Good Looks for a Good Cause IT’S TIME FOR THE ABWA’S BACHELOR AUCTION!

bout five years ago, the American Business Women’s Association was on the hunt for a new major fundraiser to spur on their causes; raising money for the education of young women and helping women in business. Having tried several other ideas that only brought in minimal dollars, they knew it was time for something different. They decided to try an idea from another division of the ABWA. They decided to put on a Bachelor Auction. The first year there were 15 bachelors involved, then 17 the next and 18 the next, as the numbers continued to grow, all procured by the ladies of the ABWA. Through word of mouth, networking and a call placed here and there, each year (normally the last week before the auction), the bachelors seem to materialize, and the event is always a huge success.

old, single (obviously), outfitted in a black suit or tuxedo, and must plan and pay for the date of their choice. Gail Lyons and Courtney Paat are the Coordinators for the Bachelor Auction, and have some words of wisdom for all the bachelors. “Remember that women like jewelry, nice restaurants, having their hair done, manicures and pedicures, flowers, cuddly pals, perfume or perhaps a basket filled with cheese and wine to name a few…be creative, the ideas are limitless! If you absolutely can’t think of anything, call us and we’ll try to help you come up with an idea.” This year’s event will be held at the Ramada Inn on Friday, February 9. As of this time, there are three bachelors signed up, but the ladies say, don’t worry. “They normally start signing up the week before,” Shannon Mitchell commented.

There are only a few rules for this event. The bachelor must be at least 21 years

So allow us to introduce you to the three current bachelors.

TRACY GETMAN

FOCUS: Tell me a little bit about yourself. Getman: I’m 30 years old and live in Apollo Beach. I’m a painting contractor and I like to ﬁsh, hunt, and show registered angus cattle. I have one daughter who’s 7. FOCUS: Why did you want to be involved in the Bachelor’s Auction? Getman: I was kindly asked, and was told it was to raise money for the community. FOCUS: Have you ever participated in something like this before? Getman: Actually, I participated in an auction beneﬁting Kickin’ for Kids in October of 2006. FOCUS: What do you hope to gain from this experience? Getman: Friendship.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 18

RICHARD RODRIGUES

FOCUS: Tell me a little bit about yourself. Rodrigues: I live In Lutz, Florida and I’m age 47. I was recently divorced 4 years ago. I have two sons; one, 23, is a professional soccer player. The other is 13 and is in 7th grade. I’m 5’11”, 205 lbs. I enjoy the outdoors, and I play and coach soccer. I work out regularly and stay in shape. I’ve been working in construction for 29 years and run the rooﬁng company for Central Florida Custom Homes. FOCUS: Why did you want to be involved in the Bachelor’s Auction? Rodrigues: It is a worthy cause to raise money for kids in the community. I think I have a pretty ok personality, and I’m fairly good looking. FOCUS: Have you ever participated in something like this before? Rodrigues: No I’ve never participated in anything like this before. Probably because I was married for over 18 years. FOCUS: What do you hope to gain from this experience? Rodrigues: I give a lot of my time to charities and really see this as a great fundraiser for our community.

JOHN STELLING

FOCUS: Tell me a little bit about yourself. Stelling: I’m friendly, just a down-toearth guy FOCUS: Why did you want to be involved in the Bachelor’s Auction? Stelling: It was for a good cause, so I decided to help out. FOCUS: Have you ever participated in something like this before? Stelling: Never, this is the ﬁrst. FOCUS: What do you hope to gain from this experience? Stelling: I’m not really expecting to gain anything except for a good time out.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Treat Your Sweetheart to a Relaxing Spa Day Package ��

��

813.717.7700 1505 South Alexander Street Suite 102

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 19

LOCAL

BACHELOR’S AUCTION

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

Amidst the fun, the ladies remember that the funds raised at this event do go to a good cause. The proceeds are distributed to Plant City High School and Durant High School in the form of scholarships for young ladies who are well-rounded, involved in the community and whose futures look very promising. As for a happy ending for the bachelors? Lyons and Paat comment, “It is true, you may not have the woman of your dreams as your date, but remember the reason for the bid, charity, and it is not a lifetime commitment. It is important to add at this point, however, that there are couples that are still dating or have even gotten married from previous year’s events. Keep an open door and an open mind because she may be Miss Right!”

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 20

� ��

GRANITE�

��

PROUDLY SERVING PLANT CITY SINCE 1988

��

Call Pam 863-670-2092

��

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 21

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photo by Kristen Toney

Plant City Ambassador

TEEN WILL TRAVEL THE WORLD FOR A CAUSE

ost of us are privileged to be able to go out of the country maybe once in a lifetime. Imagine being only 13 years old and having the opportunity to visit four countries over one summer! For Chelsea Kendrick, this is reality. Chelsea, a student at Young Middle Magnet School of Math, Science and Technology in Tampa, yet a resident of Plant City, has been awarded a position to represent Plant City in the People to People Student Program. The program was originally founded in 1956 by then American President Dwight D. Eisenhower to not only promote a great international understanding, but to also develop leadership skills in America’s youth. This summer,

Chelsea will travel to Austria, France, Italy and Switzerland. Chelsea was originally nominated for People to People for her academic distinction and her dedication to her school and her community, although to this day, she’s not aware of who actually nominated her! Tonja Kendrick, Chelsea’s mother, commented, “When she was going through the interview process, the lady immediately said, ‘she’s mine, this one’s mine, she’s in!’ I’m just so proud of her!” Chelsea herself is a very well spoken young woman, graceful and very attentive to those around her. “I’m excited,” Chelsea stated con-

fidently. “I think it’s a great opportunity for me to learn about other countries first-hand, rather than just read about them in my history 13-year-old Chelsea Kendrick will tour Europe this summer with the People to People program books.” This Plant City is proud to call Chelremarkable young woman also sea Kendrick one of ours, and we plans to put together a presentawish her well in this exciting new tion of her trip, so that “others endeavor. We are confident she’ll can learn from my experiences, make the most of her experience! and not just me.”

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 22

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Emily Allen Photo courtesy of Randy Moseley

Man With a Mission

LOCAL FISHERMAN MAKES A DIFFERENCE FOR PARKINSON’S FOUNDATION

rowing up in the Durant area, Randy Mosley enjoys being active and outdoors, and ﬁshing is his specialty. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the young age of 47, Mosley’s life became harder, but he didn’t give up.

Randy Mosley shows oﬀ his fresh catch

It wasn’t long after the slew of hurricanes in 2004 that Mosley began feeling tired and shaky, unlike his normal self. A ﬁeld engineer for Tampa Electric, he was encouraged to

Full Detail With Each Collision Repair

take time off and regroup from the trauma of the hurricanes. Diagnosis after diagnosis from mental health doctors proved fruitless. It wasn’t until he visited a neurologist that the correct diagnosis was ﬁnally given: Parkinson’s disease. The year following the diagnosis was a long, hard battle, and even now it’s not easy. But Mosley was determined to keep going. He resolved, “I’m not going to let this thing beat me. I’ll always do my best.” More than just ﬁshing, he has a passion for youth. Visiting schools from elementary through high-school, Mosley, now 50, teaches kids about water safety. Sitting on the edge of his own boat, he combines the

basics of water safety along with his message of getting outdoors and “getting away from the TV.” Captain of the Southern Extreme Fishing Charters, Mosley has discovered new talents and a new purpose within his spirit. Once shy, he now can speak to over 50 youth at a time. For him, it is so much more than a simple hobby. Not only is it encouraging kids to stay active, but it’s bringing vitality to his life and awareness of the need for a cure. The next thing on Mosley’s agenda is acquiring local business sponsorships to participate in more tournaments, so he can give more money to the Foundation. He emphatically explains, “It’s not about me. It’s about ﬁnding a cure.”

��

We Meet By Accident! �� Lifetime Warranty

��

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

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 23

��

INSTANT GRATIFICATION SAVE UP TO 40% ON CAR INSURANCE RIGHT NOW Why w a i t to s ave m o n e y ? C a l l m e a ny t i m e d ay o r n i g h t f o r a f re e q u o te o r to p u rch a s e c a r i n s u r a n ce .

Call my office 24/7.

Courtney Paat Ins Agcy Inc Courtney Paat, Agent 2414 James Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566-7111 Bus: 813-754-1725

LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR, STATE FARM IS THERE.® Providing Insurance and Financial Services State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL • Insurance and discounts subject to qualifications.

PO60142 04/06

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 24

2006

READERS CHOICE

S D R A W A HOSTED BY JULES BURT

1.18.07

2006 FOCUS

This Valentine’s Day Be #1 with your lady! Give her a gift certificate from

10% OFF

any service with mention of this ad. Expires 2/15/06

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 25

Summer Nicole Pippin

Megan Danielle Prevatt

Jennifer Lee Johnson

Courtney Lynn Kabrich

Morgan Renae Feaster

Vera Ann Lewis

Kristen Lei Nash

Courtney Lynn Davis

Kristen Elise Smith

Amanda Lynn Harrell

Cherica Danielle Brown

Tara Renee Parker

Kyndle Michelle Hampton

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 26

Morgan Elizabeth Pfister

Sommer Elizabeth Hinson

Kati Lee Maxwell

Britney Lynn Balliet

Cherrish N Cochrane

MacKenzie Paige Clark

Keelee Danielle Tomlinson

Kaila Marie Gosselin

Lauren Danielle Smith

Kristin Diane Griffin

Morgan Lindsey Riolo

Alexandra Blythe Watkins

Samantha Lea Williamson

Michelle Lindsay Curts

Kaitlyn Ann Foster

Amanda Nicole Mott

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 27

��

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 28

��

Board Certiﬁed, Fellowship Trained Radiologist High Field OPEN MRI • Mammography Multi Slice CAT SCAN • Ultrasound Diagnostic X-RAY

��

206 W. Alexander St. Suite 1 *ACR Accredited *PCI Utilizes the Second Look Detection System

(813) 750-1724

Located in the same plaza as the Movie Theater

��

752-5189

1802 W. Reynolds (Just East of Fairgrounds) www.brownsﬂoralshop.com FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 29

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photo by Debbie Bowers

Four-Legged Furry Friends NOT FORGOTTEN

any four-legged furry friends enjoyed a special Christmas thanks to a club known as JHAMing To Save the Animals. The name JHAM is an acronym for Jessica, Haley, Alexa, and Mylie, the names of the young ladies who are concerned about the plight of abandoned animals. JHAM is really pronounced jam with the “h” being silent. However, these young ladies and their mission are far from being silent. Jessica Mederia, Haley Ours, Alexa Schelb and Mylie Feaster, 11 and 12 years of age, decided to establish a club to raise money for abandoned animals. “It gives us great joy when we can help animals in great need,” commented Mederia. JHAM-ing has been busy making money through fundraisers, which include selling lemonade, creating and selling bracelets and holding a yard sale. At present, the club has several designated boxes at the Cork Elementary School requesting towels and newspapers for the shelter.

Recently the girls contacted the Hillsborough County Animal Services of Tampa to inquire about the needs of the animals in the shelter. They were asked to make Christmas ornaments for the “Sponsor a Pet” Christmas tree. Attached to each hand-made ornament was a request to fulﬁll the need of each animal. Members of the community visited the “Sponsor a Pet” tree in the shelter, obtained an ornament and purchased a gift for the animal shelter. The girls will soon take all of the money raised and purchase toys, blankets, food bowls and accessories for the abandoned animals at the shelter. “It is important for our club to donate these items to the animals that have no families. Any members of the community interested in donating to our project may contact me at (813) 754-5687,” stated Mylie Feaster. Meanwhile, the young ladies are still JHAM-ing to save the animals.

(Left to right) Jessica Mederia, Haley Ours, Alexa Schelb and Mylie Feaster.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 30

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 31

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 32

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Sherry Baldwin

THIS COULD BE YOUR...

Screen Room!!

Members of the Community

SHARE THEIR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

t is said that thousands of years ago, New Year’s resolutions included things such as returning borrowed farm equipment to its rightful owner. Fast forward to today and folks are more likely to include things Chief Barry Pettingill, Chief Eugene Shuler and like: weight loss, Captain Glen Clegg of the Plant City Fire Rescue smoking cessation, spending more time with loved ones or completing (a whole host of) other self improvement goals. Recently, members of the Plant City community shared the resolutions that (may) make it to their own New Year’s resolution list. Most notably, there was the crew over at Plant City Fire Rescue’s Station House #1. Chief Eugene Shuler shared that (while he makes goals throughout the year), his resolution would be to “continue to improve” his health. Chief Barry Pettingill chuckled as he shared how he hopes “not to repeat the mistakes of the past.” Captain Johnnie Mitchell, who will be marrying soon, hopes for a good year with his new wife. Captain Glen Clegg hopes to finish up his Bachelor’s Degree this year while Administrative Assistant Debra Morgan plans to return to college. Rookie Firefighter/EMT Paul Grasso would like to “gain 10 pounds and bulk up,” while Firefighter/EMT Steve Gunnin hopes to “lose five pounds.” FirePolice Chief Bill McDaniel along with members of the Plant City Police Department, at recent Boys and Girls Club event fighter/ Paramedic Lance Borges may even enter an Ironman Triathlon and Driver Engineer John Carter would also like to “get in shape.” Over at One Police Center, Plant City Police Chief Bill McDaniel shared that he will continue to strive to be part of the “best law enforcement agency

“FACTS”

“Thousands of Satisﬁed Customers”

We give you Start and Completion Dates Customer Referrals on Request Quality Construction Competitive Prices 45 Years of Professional Service Financing Available

Don’t Delay We will show you how affordable your room can be while adding value to your home.

659-2501

We Also Offer... Carport, Glass Rooms, Vinyl Windows, Siding/Sofﬁt, Roofover, Skirting, Pool Enclosure,

Licensed-Bonded-Insured

“Your Full Service Aluminum Contractor”

We have the Personal Desire and Experience to Solve your Home Improvement Needs.

“FREE ESTIMATES” RX00063299

www.plantcityawningandaluminum.com

OUR 45TH YEAR

� � �

lant

ity wning & Aluminum Products, Inc. “Serving Your Home Improvement Needs Since 1961” 806 WOODROW WILSON ST. UNIT #1

CARPORT

CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 33

Berry Patch Kids Fine Children’s Apparel & Gift Boutique

Expect the Best... Quality Selection & Service

Specializing in... Pageant Wear Flower Girls Communion Christening Making Kids Smile

New Spring, Easter & Strawberry Outﬁts Starting To Arrive!

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

��

LOCAL

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

in the State of Florida.” “Off duty” Chief McDaniel plans to enjoy time traveling on his motorcycle. With a job that (also) requires attention “24/7”, Jack Holland, Plant City’s Director of Parks & Recreation, would like to “carve out more time for self and family.” Within the business community, Rusty Brown of Brown’s Jewelers shared his goal to “study the word of God more” this upcoming year. “Enjoy every day the God gives to me – to the fullest,” added Brown’s staff member Cindy Hodge Parrish. Tom Sluder, a member of the sales staff at Badcock’s spoke about how he plans to improve his “ability to relate to others in a positive and supportive way.”

Jack Holland, Director of Plant City’s Parks and Recreation, shares his goals for the New Year

Rusty Brown, Owner of Brown’s Jewelers

Cindy Hodge Parrish member of AdditionBrown Jewelers’ sales staﬀ ally, Pauline McKevitt with Southern Hospitality hopes that 2007 will be a “nice, calm year.” Her plans include spending time with her new grandson, golﬁng and “using the Busch Gardens pass (before it expires) she purchased with her husband!” With many new projects in the works, Artist Jules Burt shared that (after ringing in the New Year with friends in New Orleans) she plans to “work harder and smarter” in 2007. And, Badcock’s Sales Team among our Member Tom Sluder. younger residents, Alexandria (age 12), Madison (age 10) and Olivia (age 6) Harrington, shared that their goals included things like reading more, keeping their rooms tidy and even composing original music for the violin. As for this writer, being less of a Pauline McKevitt, a familiar face over at Southern Hospitality, hopes for a calmer new year

��

“mouse potato” (yes, it is a word) and spending more time at the YMCA is at the top of the list ~~ best of luck to us all!

��

Artist Jules Burt prepares for exciting opportunities in 2007

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 34

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

��

�� Duke Clem ��

��

Regan Whitehurst ��

��

�� Robin McClamma ��

��

Ezra Jackson ��

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 35

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 36

PLANT CITYʼS NEWEST HOTEL

HOTEL � SUITES

2102 N. PARK ROAD • (813) 719-3800 Expressions of Love

J & G Jewelers Making Dreams Come True Since 1983

Designer Styles in Gold, Silver & Platinum

Plant City’s Largest Selection of Fine Jewelry at Affordable Prices

10% - 50% OFF Storewide 304 E. Baker Street, Plant City 813-752-9629 Mon-Fri 10am-5:30pm • Sat 10am-4pm

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 37

LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Joe Bowles Photos courtesy of the Trojans and the Dolphins

Local Teams Meet in “Champions” Game

PEE WEE TROJANS AND SUPER MIDGET DOLPHINS CLASH AT RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM

Pee Wee Trojans

ach December, for the past 11 years, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission hosts the “Game Day of Champions” at Raymond James Stadium. The teams that are invited to participate are those that have won their respective youth football league championships called Super Bowls. Two of the teams participating against one another this year were the Turkey Creek Trojan Pee Wee squad and the Plant City Dolphin Super Midget team. This year’s game was played on December 16th and it gave both teams the opportunity to play on the same ﬁeld as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This sporting event was created to provide an experience that these young athletes would remember for a lifetime.

According to Head Coach Jimmy Lawson, who admits to shedding a tear or two following the Super Bowl game, this team had a lot of pressure heading into the year, trying to match last year’s unblemished 13 – 0 record. But once again they ﬁnished the year with an identical record and now have won 26 straight league games. Lawson gives a lot of the credit to his assistant coach, Dub Atkins, but the majority of the credit, he says, goes to the boys. “They are a great group of kids and it has been an honor for us to have been their coaches.”

The Turkey Creek Trojan team qualiﬁed by winning their Super Bowl game against the Dover Patriots on December 2nd at the Brandon Cowboys’ ﬁeld by a score of 25 – 7. Sammy Ford scored a pair of touchdowns while Jalen Hall and Kaelib Carlough each scored a touchdown. Defensive leader Joshua Lawson was awarded the game ball being chosen as “player of the game.”

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 38

The Plant City Dolphins were selected to participate by virtue of their Super Bowl victory over the Brandon Bears 14 – 0 on November 18th at the East Bay High School ﬁeld. The Dolphins and the Bears came into the contest with identical records of 9 – 1, with the Dolphins only defeat coming at the hands of the Bears earlier in the season 20 – 17. Head Coach Steve Gude described the game as the team’s best defensive effort of the year. “The defense has been a work in progress all year. Our defensive coach, Keith Smith, has worked with our players all year on containment, and by the time we got to the playoffs, everything was clicking.” In fact, no points were scored against the Dolphins in their playoffs run. Quenton Williams scored both touchdowns (he scored 38 during the season) in the win and the defense was led by Trey Matthews, Alex Maffamei and Andrew Hakkaranien.

Super Midget Dolphins

The Tampa Bay Sports Commission occasionally has a dilemma in pairing up opponents for the Game Day of Champions because of the different age and weight requirements for each division from different leagues. The Dolphins’ Super Midget team is made up of seven, eight and nine year olds who cannot weigh over 95 pounds. The closest comparable age and weight division for the league in which the Trojans compete in is the Pee Wee division made up of boys, ages seven and eight, who cannot weigh over 75 pounds. Gude was extremely proud of his Dolphin team who defeated the Trojans 26 – 0, but he was also humble when he explained that some of his players were older and bigger than many of the Trojan players because of the different requirements for each league. Nonetheless, it was a great experience for both teams that capped off a successful year. It also allowed both teams to use the same lockers and play on the same ﬁeld as the professional athletes do. For some, it could be a preview of what the future may hold, but for all it was an experience that, indeed, will last a lifetime.

GETTING

MARRIED? WON AN AWARD?

DELIVERED? GOT A PROMOTION? Call

813-707-8783 Ext 24 To Share Your Good News MAGAZINE

NOW HIRING

Temps, Part-Time & Full-Time

Packers / Empacador / A

Duties Include:

-Examine & inspect materials -Remove completed & defective products -Measure & count materials -Package goods Deberes incluyen: -Examinar e inspeccionar los materiales y productos -Eliminar cualquier material defectuoso y colocarlo en areas designadas -Medir y contar los materiales -Empacar y preparar los materiales para almecenar y ser transportados

1st Shift/ 1er Turno 6:30am - 3:00pm

2 Shift/ 2ndo Turno nd

2:30pm - 11:00pm

3 Shift/ 3er Turno rd

10:30pm - 7:00am

M&N PLASTICS, INC. Apply in Person

2706 Turkey Creek Rd M&N Plastics, Inc. offers competitive compensation package.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 39

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 40

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 41

May the New Year bring you and yours, Health and Happiness and Prosperity Dr. John A. Busciglio Orthodontist

��

Evening Hours Available ��

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 42

et into the swing of life at

��

and live every minute to the fullest

��

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

ALF Lic. #5308

LOHKAMP Insurance Group, Inc. Melissa D. Lohkamp ��

Specializing in Truckers & Contractors ��

office: 813.752.5230 cell: 813.389.3753 fax: 813.752.2303 607 S. Alexander St. Suite 206 • Plant City, FL 33563 l ohk am pi ns @aol . co m

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 43

Story by Emily Allen, Kristel Williamson and Kristen Toney Photos by Kristen Toney and from the Floyd Publications Archives

in retrospect From THEN to NOW with

FOCUS MAGAZINE The three homes of Focus Magazine

THIS MONTH

PROFILE

Plant City Fresh

58-59FEATURE

HOME

33-35FEATURE

ARTICLE

S NG PLANT CITY [FOCUSERVI

a Walden Lake beauty

Vogel Realty shows off Plant City Doubles

INTERVIEW

39-41SPOTLIGHT Bill Dodson

110 West Reynolds St.

[

68-69BUSINESS Herbs

NEWS

N COVER: BILL DODSO PHOTO: MIKE FLOYD

s Around Plant City Events and Happening

NEWS

30-31BUSINESSNews and Financial Columns Business Related

63-66SPORTS

High School Athlete of

43-59FOCUS

101 E J Arden Mays Blvd.

A little over ﬁve years ago, a new idea was birthed in Plant City. It was born in the mind of a young man with a lot of experience in sales and motocross, and was planted in his wife’s hometown.

EVERY MONTH 08-29LOCAL

702 W MLK Blvd.

the Month/East Bay Raceway

HOME GUIDE

For Buyers, Sellers & Owners

Having been involved with print media through a motocross magazine he originally pioneered called FLMX, Mike Floyd had now moved to Plant City from Tampa and planned to raise his family here. After only beginning to ﬁnd out about the community, he began to see what an incredible place Plant City really was. The wheels of inspiration began to turn; he and DeDe, his wife, decided to start a positive, community-oriented magazine just for Plant City. They named it Focus Magazine. C

THIS MONTH

84-85BUSINESS

PROFILE Curves for Women

56-57FEATURE

HOME

32-36FEATURE

ARTICLE

Ken Lawrence shows

20-21SPOTLIGHT

off a home fit for royalty

[FOCUS SERVING PLANT

Car Show

Harry Carter

INTERVIEW

EVERY MONTH 09-30LOCAL

CITY

[

Plant City Bike Fest &

NEWS

Events and Happening s Around Plant City

30&67BUSINESS

NEWS

Business Related News

and Financial Columns

80-82SPORTS

High School Athlete of

45-66FOCUS

the Month/East Bay Raceway

HOME GUIDE

COVER: BRAD RUEL (THE WRENCH) PHOTO: MIKE FLOYD

For Buyers, Sellers & Owners

“GREASE” Play Aug 9,

2003 held at the 1914

High School, put on by

ARTICL 32-36FEATURE y Service 60 Years of Communit The Planteen,

Plant City Police

HOME

Blackburn & Associates

72-73BUSINESS

shows a Elegant Dream

Home

PROFILE

S NG PLANT CITY [FOCUSERVI

[

INTERVIEW

40-41SPOTLIGHT Chief Bill McDaniel

Carl “SOLD” Seigel

EVERY MONTH 07-29LOCAL

NEWS

s Around Plant City Events and Happening

NEWS

30&31BUSINESSNews and Financial Columns Business Related

43-59FOCUS

HOME GUIDE

For Buyers, Sellers & Owners

Bay Raceway 62-66SPORTS Athlete of the Month/East

Now, at the beginning of 2007, Focus Magazine is one of the most recognized media forms in our area. Focus Plant City Edition has grown at the amazing rate of 70% each year, with the largest issue yet maxing out at 176 pages!

Plant City Children’s Theater

O THIS MONTH

56-57FEATURE

The ﬁrst issue of Focus launched in January of 2002, soon after the tragic September 11 of 2001, a low time for almost any industry in America. Mike and DeDe were the owners, publishers, salespeople, writers, photographers, editors and delivery persons for Focus Magazine for many months at the beginning of this venture. As they dreamed of a product they believed would ﬂy, they knew they had to work night and day to make it happen.

McDANIEL POLICE CHIEF BILL COVER: PLANT CITY PHOTO: MIKE FLOYD

High School

CTOBER 03 PG06

FOCUS MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER/O

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 44

Floyd Publications as a whole has expanded its family of media products to serve over 200,000 readers every month, and this number continues to grow. Two years ago, East Pasco, Lakeland and Winter Haven/Lake Wales editions of Focus Magazine were born, and have since been proven sources of advertising and positive, uplifting community news in their respected communities. In 2006 Floyd Publications launched two Christian magazines, Inspire Monthly and Pure Magazine, while the fifth edition of Focus will arrive in Clermont (covering South Lake County) on the 25th of this month. From the first Focus office in the now beautifully renovated office suites at 110 West Reynolds Street, to the building on Martin Luther King, to the new location at 101 East J. Arden Mays Boulevard, the company continues to grow, and

magazine promoted in the community - one of camaraderie, inclusion and enjoying life for each minute we’re given. Focus gave me an opportunity to get to know the people of Plant City, Lakeland and East Pasco, and to appreciate the value of a close-knit community. My role at Focus also allowed me the chance to spread my wings as a writer and a journalist. In covering a diverse collection of stories, I had a chance to cut my teeth on everything from local history to personal profiles, community life and cultural diversity. As an editor, I was able to work as part of a great team to strive in making Focus the quality product its readership deserves. Through Focus, I have seen the voice of the people come alive in the communities it serves. It brings to the spotlight the great things that are going on in each of these areas. It taps into the positive atmosphere of the community, bolsters it and amplifies the heartbeat of the people who live there. I think this is why people have embraced Focus with open arms. It represents them truly and resonates with them on a level that the words and stories only begin to express. In a world where we are constantly confronted with trial, difficulty, and tragedy, I think Focus brings a refreshing dose of goodness that helps people to keep seeing the best in life.” Plant City’s current Mayor, John Dicks, and a former Mayor, Mike Sparkman, shared their thoughts about Focus, as well. “Focus has become a great news and feature outlet, and keeps people updated on what the citizens of Plant City are accomplishing,” Dicks commented. “It has also provided a forum for getting out information on events and does a great job of highlighting the community.”

Cover from the very ﬁrst issue of Focus Magazine

will celebrate bigger than ever at the annual Focus Anniversary Party and Reader’s Choice Awards on January 18. Especially with the fast-approaching arrival of the new Clermont Focus, the staff of Floyd Publications has done quite a bit of remembering back to our roots in the past few months. Many long hours have gone into publishing a magazine for you, our reader. When we create each new issue, we think of you. We try to place ourselves in your shoes and write about what you would want to hear. We try to take as many suggestions as we can and improve on Focus Magazine each month. With the amount of feedback we’ve received over the years on various issues, stories and coverage, we asked a few members of the community one simple question: “What does Focus mean to you?”

Sparkman commented, “It’s got some good feature articles about home-town people, and I always find it interesting to find out more about our community. Plant City doesn’t have a media per se, i.e. television or radio, so it has added to the written media with a positive influence.” Betty Chambers puts it simply. “Focus means, ‘What’s going on in Plant City.’ It also introduces some people that I’m not aware of and what they’re doing, with input on what some of the citizens are doing in our town. I look forward to each issue!” Joyce Jordan, a key figure in our community as leader of the organization, Unity in the Community, had this to say. “It’s a really nice magazine with a lot of information in it, and great human interest stories. I think that it’s done really well. Its fast growth has proven its impact.” “I love reading Focus because it gives me a taste of the whole community. It covers everything from A-Z and more,” said Jodi Smith, current President of the Junior Women’s Club. “Focus has been a

Kelli Tharrington, Plant City resident and a former Focus editor, had this to say about what Focus means to her. “It’s a way to keep up with community events and things that are going on in the community that you wouldn’t normally know about: parties, restoration of homes in the Historic District, etc. Focus has brought our community closer together. It has given them a new way to connect. There are several city publications, but Focus has given our community a younger approach and a more modern twist.” Another familiar name to many is that of Jeff Neely, again, a former editor of Focus. Jeff is now married and living in Brandon, but he holds fond memories of his days with Floyd Publications. “Working at Focus was a wonderful experience for me, and I continue to maintain many of the friendships I made there. The work atmosphere at Focus always mirrored the same attitude the

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 45

in retrospect From THEN to NOW with

FOCUS MAGAZINE

Focus After Hours, 2005

Christmas Parade, 2003

Lake Mirror Summer Fest, 2006

Focus attending the Chamber of Commerce Business Expo. (l to r) Tania Summers, DeDe Floyd and Mike Floyd

great impact on our community. All the various stories, pictures, and even advertisements communicate all the different aspects of our community. I love Focus!” Felix Haynes is not only the head of the Rotary here in Plant City, but he is also the President of Hillsborough Community College. Here’s Haynes’ response when we asked him what Focus means to him. “It means that the part of the world that I live in, work in, and invest my time in has come of age. We are big enough and important enough to have a publication and have proved ourselves as an asset to the community. Focus provides a good service to the community and gives us information. The more information I have, the better off I am. Focus has tied us together better and has made us more aware of what other people and organizations are doing in the community. Focus has also ﬁlled niches that other publications aren’t covering.” Without the help of Jack Holland, head of the Plant City’s Parks & Recreation Department, many wonderful stories would have never been covered! Jack is wonderful when it comes to keeping the community advised of the events taking place in our midst, and it’s for that reason he appreciates Focus, as well! “Focus has given the community a message to get the information they need that relates to their community rather than state or national events. It truly focuses on the community’s needs and activities. Focus has been a major player in keeping our community together. We FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 46

have a small town and Focus has maintained that personal feeling through relaying activities that happen around town.” Another incredible ﬁgure to the Plant City community is Marion Smith, President of our Chamber of Commerce. “Focus is a wellwritten, local magazine that focuses on down-to-earth stories in our community. It’s brought a lot of stories to the forefront that people would never have heard about otherwise. Most local papers have only bad news, but FOCUS shows the individuals and promotes good causes around the community.” Not only a business and family man, but also an avid historian and community advocate, Ed Verner is a man recognized by name and action. “Focus means ‘feel good news’ about our town. These are stories most of the large publications won’t cover, but that we love to hear! Focus tells stories that remind us of why Plant City is so cool. You know, you can submit stories to the larger publications, and most times they’ll never pick them up. But you bring them to Focus, and they’re covered. They have the room because they don’t have to worry about the negative politics; they have room for the positive. The advertising impact is incredibly strong! People read Focus cover to cover, and most times more than once. It sits in lobbies and waiting areas for a month!” “Focus has allowed us to get to know our community better,” commented Marsha Passmore. “I always enjoy reading the feature

��

WHATEVER YOUR LEGAL NEED WE’LL STRIVE FOR JUSTICE IN YOUR CASE. �

�� 813.719.6605 � ��

�

� ��

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 47

in retrospect From THEN to NOW with

FOCUS MAGAZINE

article; it allows us to get to know and keeps us in touch with the people who live around us. Focus is like a bonus; it gives a different angle to local stories than the news or newspaper can offer. I always look forward to ﬁnding out who is the hot person this month! Focus takes a story a little bit further. When a feature is written on someone, it takes the reader all the way through the career of that person. It gives the whole story of events and who’s involved. In other words, Focus takes a story and completes it.” DeDe Floyd

Mike Floyd

We caught up with a couple people on the sidewalks of downtown Plant City, and asked them their thoughts about Focus Magazine. Stephanie Leighton mentioned how much she enjoys Focus. “I’ve been here in Plant City all my life and I’m glad that we have it. I love seeing Focus praise the children in their accomplishments and in the community. Honestly, I get anxious each time an issue comes out because I can’t wait to see who’s on the cover!” Ron Alderman appreciates the way Focus Magazine keeps up with the community. “I like Focus a lot. It helps me to stay in touch with what’s going on in the community and who is doing what. Its hometown focused, hears our opinions, and it keeps us all involved, even in city government issues.” Business owners in Plant City voiced their feelings on what Focus Magazine meant for them as well.

Current Focus Staﬀ: Front row (l to r) Anthony Sassano, Sophia Dedon and Tania Summers. Back row (l to r) Mike Floyd, DeDe Floyd, Erica Snyder, Stefanie Burlingame, Bob Hughens and Kristen Toney

Business Expo

DeeDee Coile is the Owner of Berry Patch Kids. She’s been placing ads in Focus Magazine with positive results. “Focus Magazine is the only publication that works for me. I’ve been here ten years and tried radio and newspaper advertisements, but they just don’t get out to the public as much as Focus does. Customers come in all the time and tell me that they enjoy the magazine and have located me through it. Focus benefits the local businesses and I think it’s great.” Johnny Knotts, owner of Knotts Hardware, has even been in Focus Magazine. “You know, I’ve been in Focus twice and both stories drew attention. It was obvious that Focus is widely read and a lot of people talked about the store after the article. I’ve only heard good things about Focus and there’s always a tremendous response after a story is done. I mean, when people talk to you about an article without you even having to say anything, you know it’s good. But for me, Focus is the hometown stories, it’s good and fun and it’s not depressing like the news. Bigger newspapers in the area lose us in the midst of things, but Focus puts us back on the map by putting locals in the mix.” “I think I like Focus because it’s geared toward the hometown,” said Dennis Perkins of Shaw Realty. “It’s the pulse of Plant City. Focus is the best print to let you know what’s going on and has wonderful profiles of local people. It’s a good hometown feel and it’s free. And, if it’s free, it’s me.” All of us at Floyd Publications and Focus Magazine are proud to have served you and this community. Our hearts are in Plant City, and our joy is in finding the best parts of Plant City to share with you. We greatly appreciate your support. Without our readers, we would have never experienced such success, and we are grateful for your open arms. We look forward to many more years as your Community Magazine, and many more instances of taking a story, and completing it.

Strawberry Festival Parade, 2006 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 48

FLORIDA’S LARGEST STRAWBERRY & CITRUS MARKET

OPEN YEAR ROUND

FOCUS READERS CHOICE AWARDS for Best Strawberry Shortcake & Best Milkshake!

THANK YOU!

covered y ice cream Thick cream ped cream ed with whip pp to & es with berri

LARGE SERVING

FRESH STRAWBERRY $ SUNDAE

50 INC. TAX

MOUS A F D L R O W R SERVING OU SHORTCAKE

Y STRAWB�E�R�R��

$ 50

(813) 752-0502

INC.TAX

us thick delicio Also serving

FRESH STRAWBERRSY MILKSHAKE

ONLY

$ 50

NAVAL ORANGES $ 39

TANGERINES

RED SEEDLESS GRAPEFRUIT

Best Prices Anywhere

5LB BAG

ONLY

# 3 YEARS IN A ROW BY Voted #1

5LB BAG

$ 39

PER BAG

INC. TAX

99¢

3702 W. BAKER STREET • PLANT CITY, FL 33563 • HWY 92 WEST OF PLANT CITY LIMITS OFF I-4 BETWEEN EXITS 17 & 19 • 9-6 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Arriving Daily FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 49

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 50

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 51

One

Special Year for One Special Girl

Hannah Hodge spent a memorable year as the 2006 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen

Story by BRIAN WEST â&#x20AC;˘ Photos by MIKE FLOYD and courtesy of HANNAH HODGE

Hannah Hodge is just like most girls in Plant City. She, too, dreamed of becoming the Strawberry Festival Queen, but it almost didn’t happen. Just before the process started for the 2005 contest, Hodge developed Bell’s Palsy - a condition that causes the facial muscles to weaken or become paralyzed. It’s caused by trauma to the 7th cranial nerve, but fortunately, it’s not permanent. Hodge withdrew from the contest, and recovered from Bell’s palsy. Then in 2006, she entered the contest again and was crowned Queen.

Focus: How did it feel to be crowned as the 2006 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen? Hodge: It felt amazing knowing that you see the contestants in the pageant every year and you see them crowned and think to yourself, “That must be awesome and they must be on cloud nine.” So when it happened to me, it was just so surreal, I thought there must be little girls out there [in the audience] thinking the same thing. And it was an honor to know that for the next year I was going to represent Plant City. Focus: How has it been traveling with the members of your court? Hodge: Honestly, this interview would not be the same if I had ended up with four different girls. Each one of us added something totally different: Ilene is a year older than the rest of us, but she and the other girls are from Plant

City High School, so I’m the only girl from Durant. Megan, Julie and Kayla really hit it off. We all had a bond from the very beginning. From the very ﬁrst day together, we were all picking out the same things and running to try everything on. From that day forward we all knew that we’d be really close. Some people think that when you get a bunch of girls together that it must be so hard, but we all bring something different to the group and it’s been so easy and enjoyable. Focus: Is there someone in the group that keeps everyone laughing? Hodge: When I ﬁrst met Ilene, I thought she was always so straight forward. She just seemed so perfect, and now whenever it’s just the two of us, she always has me laughing. It just goes to show that when you get to know someone, they’re totally different [than what you may have thought they

Hannah with her family after being crowned

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 53

were]. From the beginning, even to the public, Kayla always had something to say. She was always keeping us laughing. Once we got comfortable with each other, we really hit it off in a comic way. I have so many funny pictures. We’d take a normal picture and then a funny picture.

One

Special Year for One Special Girl

Focus: What was the ﬁrst thing you did together as a group? Hodge: We had a “come to Jesus” meeting with our moms and Sandee Systma. And this was before we really knew each other and we were thinking, “Oh my goodness. Is this lady mean?” Ms. Sandee went through the rules and since we were all good girls, we all thought, “Wait, these are the horrible rules? These are easy.” After that, we had shopping sprees because we actually do have a little say in what our outﬁts look like in the end, so that was nice. And, of course, it was the Festival’s treat, so that made the shopping even better. We also did interviews with Focus and the Courier, and different newspapers from around the area like the Tampa Tribune. I got to go on TV one morning with Ms. Sandee and we had to meet the other four girls at the

Hannah and her court

Ramada where they were being interviewed by Focus. So that was the ﬁrst day where we had to be several different places at scheduled times. I felt like Miss America. It was so much fun. Focus: Is there one special moment you always remember? Hodge: I tend to think about a dinner we had at the Festival grounds just before the Festival began. They made us wait until the end and then we got to see the palace. This is the room the ﬁve of us use for the 11 days of the Festival. It’s special because each one of our moms had already been there

Hannah and Dierks Bentley before concert

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 54

and decorated our station. There were so many pictures we could have decorated a gallery. So it was so nice having all our moms and dads there with us to see where we were going to be spending our time together. There were couches and we all had custom pillows with our names on them and a woman, Mrs. Heather, painted “Where Royalty Resides” on one of the walls. It was just so special. Focus: How has the experience been for your family? Hodge: Good. My parents were lucky enough to be at almost everything we did. Of course, there is that line when it’s only the ﬁve of us walking around with our chaperone. There are those moments when we were on stage, but we could see our parents in the audience. But they’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. I think my grandpa has enjoyed it the most – my Honey. My grandma, Mimi, jokes that if someone does not mention in the ﬁrst minute of the conversation that his granddaughter is Strawberry Queen, he will let them know. And to this day, my Honey still tells everyone, “My Hannah is Strawberry Queen.”

Hannah and Julie Boback

To walk in the room with all the Queen’s pictures just made his day. He’s a Plant City boy. He wasn’t born here, but he’s lived here since childhood. It was so neat the night of the pageant; my entire family was thrilled for me, even my brother. Focus: Was there something about your experience that surprised you? Hodge: I didn’t realize how busy we would be the ﬁrst month. I remember that I’d get to school and I’d come into Ms. Messick’s ofﬁce. I was a teacher’s assistant. Ms. Messick would have a note for me saying so and so

Just before a TV appearance

��

Open ��

��

Reynolds

Wheeler

Baker ��

Davis

Alexander

�� LOCATED BETWEEN DOWNTOWN AND ALEXANDER STREET

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 55

Special Year Special

called for you. So that was so funny and we’d always joke about it because they were taking notes for me. One I had something going on every day of the festival; from having lunch with the former Queen, Ashley for One Watkins, to interviews, to taking a picture with my pig because everyone seemed to adore that. I just didn’t realize how much there would be. I didn’t realize how many memories I’d have. But now I look back and wish I had kept a journal because there was just so much at once. And people recognize the ﬁve of us everywhere. I had someone recognize me in Sam’s. I was wearing my Abercrombie jeans with holes in them and a “My daddy drives a Ford” t-shirt. This woman said, “Are you the Strawberry Queen? My daughter loves your blue and teal gown.” So that was really neat to know that I really was representing Plant City. Focus: Tell me something the group did that might have been embarrassing. Hodge: There was one morning when we all came into the Festival early. We had met Skip Mahaffee from the morning show on US 103.5 FM. So we all got together at 8:00 a.m. one morning in the palace; still in our pajamas, with no makeup on. So we called into the show and we had made up this song to the tune of Skip to My Lou, but we changed the words to Skip Mahaffe. So we called in and he recorded us and it never went on the radio. It was about 9:30 a.m. and we were realizing he hadn’t put us on. So we called back into the show and asked why we weren’t on the radio and just gave him a hard time. So he put that on the radio ﬁrst and then played our song. We thought we were going to be in so much trouble, but everyone got a good laugh instead. Focus: How do you feel now that your year is coming to an end? Hodge: In a way I’m disappointed and in a way I’m not. The year has gone by too fast. I promise you, it feels like I was crowned just yesterday. And it feels that way to everyone around here. Just today I was talking with my mom and we realized that the Strawberry Ball is next month and we don’t even have my gown altered. So then I said, “Mom, the Queen’s pageant is the next weekend.” So knowing that its coming to an end just doesn’t seem real, it’s just been so much fun. But I also know that the bond I’ve made with Ilene, Julie, Kayla

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 56

and Megan isn’t over after the pageant. We will all still be just as good of friends with each other without our sashes as we were with our sashes. So I’m actually looking forward to knowing that five new girls will Girl get to experience what we did. It’ll be nice to sit back and watch the next five girls knowing that I had that same experience they’re having. The five new girls really do have a lot to look forward to.

Focus: I know that being backstage and meeting the entertainers that come to the Festival is a highlight for the Queen and her Court. Who was your favorite entertainer? Hodge: I’d have to say that it’s between two of them; Big and Rich, and Dierks Bentley. I liked Big and Rich because of their show and I love their music, and Dierks Bentley because…he’s Dierks Bentley. In fact, here’s a funny story. Ms. Sandee didn’t have a clue who Dierks Bentley was. I mean, she couldn’t pick the man out of a panel of five. So we’re all, of course, on time this particular night, standing out in our little outfits with our cowboy hats on. We’re all in line waiting for our picture with him. So Ms. Sandee goes into the back room, peaks out to us and says, “Girls. Come here.” Every one of us was like, “No. We’re standing right here because we’re waiting for him to get off his bus. She finally convinces us to come over to her. We look in and, low and behold, there he is in this tiny little room on the side of the Festival grounds. He’s signing autographs in the tiny little room. He took individual pictures with us. He talked to each of us. It was just so awesome. We got group pictures with everyone, but he was the only one we got individual pictures with. So then, when we went on stage, we showed everyone our hands and told them we touched Dierks Bentley! Hodge is just like any other teenage girl with all the hope of the rest of her life in front of her. Hodge has a strong family behind her and many, many wonderful memories from this experience that she’ll carry forever. Thanks, Hannah. You’re a wonderful Queen.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 57

HISTORY

DID YOU KNOW?

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Plant City Photo Archives, Inc.

The Lion House

A COLLINS STREET HISTORIC LANDMARK the chicken coop containing Rhode Island Reds was located in the back yard. Inside, almost everything was composed of beautiful Florida Heart of Pine including the ﬂoors, numerous ﬁreplaces and trim work. The original front door was hand carved from this resilient material. Stained glass windows were present throughout, and three balconies, including the widows-walk, created a stylish impression.

n the west side of North Collins Street is a familiar city landmark. Set back behind aging Magnolias is a beautiful piece of our history known to most residents as “the Lion House.” Only a privileged few know much about its origins or signiﬁcance. That group includes Robert Parker, grandson of the original owners, and Wayne and Rebecca Shuff, the current owners, who are willing to share the incredible story of the Lion House. John and Mary Chapman built the lovely residence in 1908 for a whopping $4500; at the time it was

one of the most elegant and modern houses in Plant City. The two-story even contained an upstairs bathroom - an unusual feature in 1908. Many original elements of the house have been restored or preserved to honor the original grandeur. The ornately crafted wrought iron fence that graces the front lawn are original to the house, as are many Boxwoods and Camellias that are still thriving almost 100 years later. But in 1908 the front yard contained no lions and no grass; instead, the yard was swept and weeded, a fairly common practice in that time. A stable sat where the garage is now and

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 58

Unfortunately, John Chapman died in 1910 and the widowed Mary turned the residence into a boarding house. The bottom floor was converted into two apartments and the top floor contained two more apartments, which could be rented for about one dollar per night. This transition caused many rooms to be altered to accommodate the guests, which included many of Plant City’s elite families. Mary lived in what is now the master bedroom and a makeshift bathroom was added on the adjoining porch. The kitchen was where the breakfast room sits now, while the Shuff’s living room is in the same spot as the communal living room Ms. Chapman inhabited. Upstairs, the bathroom was partitioned into three dimly lit sections – one each for a sink, a toilet and a claw foot tub, respectively. Over the years, the Borings and the Moodys stayed in these second floor apartments, in what is now the Shuff’s grandson’s bedroom. When Mary died in 1954, the house was left to her daughters, Marie Browning and Geraldine Browning. By this time the balconies were gone, because they had fallen into disrepair, even though the house went under renovation in the 1940s. In the mid1960s the Nyberg family purchased the house and began to slowly mod-

ernize a few select features, like the grassy front lawn. In 1974 the Broward family bought the house and completely renovated the structure. Inside, they converted apartments back into the original rooms and added a modern kitchen, a bathroom and a dressing area where the porch and makeshift bathroom stood. They also incorporated shag carpeting throughout, as well as wood paneling upstairs. The balconies were refurbished and a balustrade was added to the front porch. But most importantly, the two lions, affectionately named Tim and Todd, were added to the front porch. Wayne and Rebecca Shuff bought the Lion House in 2001, and over the past five years they have brought it back to its original splendor. The Shuffs restored the original wood floors, as well as the pine in Wayne’s favorite room, the office. They also hired carpenters to replicate woodwork lost through time, like the back staircase, and they added duplicate woodwork to the rooms that were recently added. The Shuff’s painstaking attention to detail makes the house a true treasure; even though nearly a century has passed, the house seems to have been almost unchanged. It is now filled with all the charms of the twentieth century from the old widowswalk to the beautiful guard lions and the timeless elegance of historical significance.

Sources: Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., Bud Lee Collection, Plant City Photo Archives Oral History Project, Rebecca Smith, Robert Parker, and Wayne and Rebecca Shuff.

HOME GUIDE

F OR A NOTHER S WEET S ALE C ALL : 813-758-9586

��

BUY SELL ��

��

TOP-OF-THE-LINE SERVICE BOTTOM-LINE RESULTS! ��

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 59

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

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 60

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

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 61

��

XANGO

��

FOR MORE INFO CALL:

(863) 608-1866

� � ��

��

Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Monthly - Quality, Dependable Service ��

��

NOW ACCEPTING NEW CUSTOMERS

��

FINE TOUCH CLEANING ��

813-300-4763 • 813-757-0140 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 62

RemodelSpecialist

At Morrow & Associates we believe in the “Team” approach, where the contractor, owner, and design professionals are working together to give the owner a project that is on schedule, in budget, and will exceed the owner’s expectations.

Licensed, Bonded & Insured CGC 1509134

Office 813.717.9707 Fax 813.715.0066 • 3620 Copeland Drive / Zephyrills, Fl 33542

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 63

Been turned down by the banks? Think that you can not qualify for a loan? Think Again.

Last Month: I helped a customer pull out $100,000 in equity from his home with NO DOCUMENTATION!!! Refinanced a mobile home for a customer that thought that it could not be done. Saved a family from foreclosure by refinancing their home and paying off the bank. Are you ready?

Programs Available: • MOBILE HOME LOANS • NO MORTGAGE INSURANCE • 80/20 Loans (No Down Payment) • Bankruptcy Buyouts • Foreclosure Bailout Loans • Business Owner Loans • 95% LTV with a

500 credit score!!!

• 100% Financing, No down payment with a

575 credit score!

IT DOESN’T MATTER!!! • Collections • Low Credit Scores • No Tax Return Loans • Stated Income • Prior Bankruptcy • Late Mortgage Payments

CALL NATE DAVIS Mortgage Consultant

(813) 763-3910 Office Located In Plant City

YOU CAN refinance your home. YOU CAN buy a home, and I CAN help you. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 64

For “Another Sweet Sale” Call 813-758-9586. Call Us For All Your Real Estate Needs! ��

Beautiful 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath Custom Home on 2.77 A featuring Designer Cabinets, Granite Countertops, Crown Molding & ﬂexible ﬂoor plan ideal for teens or In-law suite. The pasture is Multi-fenced & irrigated. The barn has electric & water. All this & a new Pool. It’s a STEAL at $499,900. Call Angel @ 546-9863

��

You just have to see this Beautiful 3/2/2 Home w/Decorator Touches galore. Gormet Kitchen w/Stainless Steel Appliances & NEW designer Cabinets w/Granite Countertops. The Master Bath is a dream with NEW Decorator Tile & Old World Vanity. Call now to move right in! Only $239,900 Call Natalie 758-9586

You will fall in love with this wonderful home on large Cul-de-sac lot in one of the nicest neighborhoods in Walden Lake. This home has 2 Double-sided Fireplaces, over 2800 sq’ of living area, 4 large Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths, new Roof and a Pool. A must see at only $365,000 Call Natalie 758-9586

��

You MUST see this Beautiful Home with Loads of Extras including Upgraded Wood Cabinets, Recessed Lighting, Tray Ceiling, Berber Carpet & Gorgeous Tile. You’ll love this yard with it’s Xerioscape Landscaping. This is MOVE-IN ready and waiting for you! Call Angel @ 546-9863

��

Hurry! Great custom built ranch style home w/many upgrades. Save money on energy w/double paned windows, 2 hot water heaters & multiple zoned A/C. Sits on a beautiful private lots w/lots of Florida wildlife in the backyard. $364,900. Call Angel Miller @ 813-546-9863

��

Stop looking... This is your HOME! Oversized Master Suite with double doors and HUGE Master Closet. You will LOVE the Open Floor Plan with lots of Plant Shelves in this Great Room Model. Cook your Favorite Dishes in the large Kitchen. Call Natalie @ 758-9586.

Gorgeous Remodeled Pool Home in desirable Shadow Run in Riverview on over 2 Acres. 4 Bedrooms, 2 1⁄2 Baths, all new Kitchen Appliances, Granite Countertop, New Light Fixtures, Ceiling Fans & much more! This home has it all! $499,900 Call Natalie at 758-9586

Wonderful home in Paddocks neighborhood of Walden Lake. Feels larger than it is with its ﬂeaming laminate wood ﬂoors, great room model with separate dining room and much more. You have to see this one! Reduced to SELL $210,000. Call Natalie at 813-758-9586

��

Lovely Home on CUL-DE-SAC/CONSERVATION lot in the Silver Brooke Community of Walden Lake. This distinctive split plan home with 1660 sq’ features 9’ ceiling, Fenced Yard, NEW ﬂoors, carpet & exterior paint. This is a great home. NEED WE SAY MORE! Offered for $225,000 Call Carrie @ 767-3459

Gorgeous property in growing area of Plant City ready for you to build your dream home. Bring your horses and spread out on over 2 Acres of Beautiful Land. A Great Price at $142,500 Call Carrie Lang at 813-767-3459

You just have to see this wonderful home in the Silverstone Neighborhood of Walden Lake. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths, Open Great Room Floor Plan & Wonderful Yard. Live a great life in this Golf Community with miles of Biking & Walking Trails. Offered for only $215,000. Call Carrie Lang 813-767-3459

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 65

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 66

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 67

Want A Piece Of The Real Florida?

CACHET GRANITE � ��

Ask Us How! Native Landscaping & Maintenance Locally Owned and Operated Serving Plant City for Over 15 Years

��

Call Hiram 813.717.7779

Call for details: 813-659-0370

2 Nail Technician Stations Available

2 Stylist Stations Available

�� The PLACE for HAIR,

��

NAILS & SKIN CARE

��

�� • Spa Pedicure & Manicure • Wedding Packages • Spray Tanning • Permanent Make-Up • All Major Hair Products • Derma Microbrasion Jan Special - 2 for $85 We accept all major cards

Berry Kurtz - Stylist Lisa Edwards - Stylist Diann Gillespie - Sylist Megan Register - Stylist Christal Maxwell - Nail Technician Carla Youmans - Nail Technician Joann Register - Nail Technician Sloan Short - Esthetician Merle Overstreet - Stylist Rachel - Spray Tanning

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 68

754-4758

�� • ��- Long Term Care • �� • �� - Mutual Funds, Variable & fixed annuities • �� • �� - Health, Disability & Dental insurance

Call Black Financial Today:813-299-2449 ��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 69

��

Office: �� Toll Free: ��

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 70

��

� � �� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 71

��

MAGAZINE ��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 72

C E N T U R Y

��

2 1 S H A W R E A L T Y G R O U P

��

PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 73 C o n t a c t u s at worldwiderelocation@century21.com FOCUS

��

Est. 1922

EPRCCPAs

Your Future Success Is Our Business

��

� � ��

� � � � � � � � � � ��

��

� ��

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 74

��

�� References Available

Lic #SCC131149898 Bonded & Ins.

Country Style Homes ��

Within City Limits... ��

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 75

HOMES

HOME GUIDE

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Natalie Sweet

The Walden Lake Review W

alden Lake was all aglow with the wonderful holiday decorations, especially in the neighborhood entrances. The judging is done for the two categories. The big winner in large entrances was Emerald Forest with Laurel Lake and Aston Woods in 2nd and 3rd. Honorable mention goes to Silverstone and the Paddocks. In the small entrance category, 1st place went to Walden Oaks with Silverlake and Silver Brooke coming in 2nd and 3rd. Honorable mention went to Clubhouse Woods and Spring Meadow. The master association has selected a new landscape company for 2007, Complete Lawn Care, which began caring for our com-

mon areas on January 1st. The presidents of the neighborhood associations will meet with the master association board on February 12th at 7 p.m. to review any issues and keep each other informed. The master association board meets the 2nd Monday of every month at 5 p.m. at the ofﬁce on the corner of Alexander and Mendonsa. The meetings are always open to the residents and if you have any issues you would like to put on the agenda, please contact Tom at the ofﬁce. Golf carts and children’s motorized vehicles continue to be a problematic issue. Please remember it is dangerous for children to be driving a cart without a license

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 76

on public roads. The board would like me to also remind you that ATVs do not belong on the walking paths or the polo ﬁeld. Walden Lake Golf & Country Club’s membership continues to grow. Steve Mercer tells me the renovations are continuing and will be an ongoing project. They plan monthly events that will, in most cases, be open to the public. The New Year’s Eve party was a fantastic success with a packed house. There was great entertainment with a live band and Billy Finch, the singer-impersonator. The WLGCC is planning a GIANT Superbowl Party on February 4th at Bogies and is open to the public. There are many

ﬂat screen televisions that can be seen from any place you sit. They will be holding Happy Hour all day long, with drink and food specials, and there will be games and door prizes. Large groups are welcome with private rooms available. Dance the night away and enjoy the surf & turf dinner on Wednesday, February 14th at the Valentine’s Day Party from 7-10 p.m. This event is open to the public and is only $50 plus tax and gratuity per couple. Reservations are accepted and recommended. The Association Board wishes everyone a happy and prosperous New Year!

2006

READERS CHOICE

AWARDS

HOSTED BY JULES BURT

1.18.07

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

Hours: Mon. - Friday 10am-7pm Sat. 10am-8pm

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

813.719.1129 www.fancypet-petstore.com

��

2006 FOCUS

�� Not valid with any offer, Valid only with coupon. Expires 02/15/07

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 77

e v i t a r o c e D

��

HOMES

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Shelton Keely

What is a Short Sale?

ou will likely come across dozens of properties in foreclosure with little or no equity, that is, the seller owes more than the property is worth. In these situations, lenders are sometimes willing to accept less than the full amount due, commonly referred to a “short pay” or “short sale.” Negotiating a short sale with the lender is a difficult process, generally because it is a daunting task finding a bank officer who has the authority to accept a discount. You will have to call around to locate the lender’s “Loss Mitigation Department.” More than likely, each lender you deal with will have a separate name for this department, so be patient when calling. Once you get in touch with the right person, then the negotiating begins.

��

From the lender’s perspective, a short sale saves many of the costs associated with the foreclosure process - attorney fee’s, the eviction process, delays from borrower bankruptcy, damage to the property, costs associated with resale, etc. In a short sale scenario, the lender gets the property back faster, so it is able to cut its losses. Your job as the investor is to convince the lender that it will fare better by accepting less money now. The lender will want some information about the property, the borrower and the deal he has made with you. Specifically, the lender wants to know what the property is worth. The lender will generally hire a local real estate broker or appraiser to evaluate the property (called a broker’s price opinion or “BPO”). You can also submit your own appraisal or comparable sales information. In addition you will want to offer as much specific negative information about the property as possible. Also, include some relevant information about the neighborhood and the local economy if things are bad (copies of newspaper articles with “bad news” may help). A contract’s bid for repair estimates should also be submitted, which, of course, should be the highest bid you can obtain! The lender will also ask for financial information about the borrower. Sort of a backwards loan application, the borrower must prove that he is broke and unable to afford the payments. The borrower must show that he has no other source of income or assets to repay the loan. This process may involve as much, if not more paperwork than an original mortgage application! The borrower should submit a “hardship letter”, which is basically a sob story about how much financial trouble the borrower is in. This may require a little literary creativity, and some help on your part. Don’t lie, just paint a picture that doesn’t look good. Finally, the lender generally wants to see a written contract between you and the seller. The lender wants to make sure the seller isn’t walking away with any cash from the deal. Generally, the contract must be written so that the buyer pays all costs associated with the transaction, so that the “net cash” to the seller is the exact amount of the short pay to the lender. A preliminary HUD-1 settlement statement is often requested, which can be difficult, since many title and escrow companies simple won’t prepare one in advance of closing. You can prepare your own HUD-1, and simply write “preliminary” on the top. Don’t be surprised if your short sale bid is rejected. Lenders aren’t emotionally attached to their properties, so they aren’t as likely to give you “steal.” Many short sales fall through if the BPO comes in too high, which is often the case. You can’t pull the wool over a lender’s eyes – if the property isn’t is need of serious repair, it is unlikely you can convince the lender the property is worth a whole lot less than the appraised value. Shelton Keely Broker-Associate Keller Williams Realty 813-503-0999

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 78

FREEMARR HOMES, INC. “Your Quality Home Builder” �� Prime Plant City Location Single Family Homes from the Low $200ʼs 1,467 to 1,950 s.f. of living space Standard lot 60ʼ x 110ʼ

��

• • • • • •

The Carmelia

Ceramic Tile Floratam Sod and Irrigation System 30 Year Dimensional Shingles Custom Oak 42” Upper Cabinets Low HOA, No CDD Much More!

��

Contact Paula and Abby today at 813-752-8607 paula.meyers@freemarr.com www.freemarr.com Broker Participation Welcome

��

CRC 043791

��

Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. Standard features may vary per ﬂoor plan and community.

Now Enrolling For 2007-2008 School Year

Hope Christian Academy Hope Christian Academy

1109 W. Grant St. • Plant City, FL 33563

813-752-1000

mhagel@hope-christian.com Accredited: NPSAA

Openings Available Educational Opportunities for Struggling, Average & Advanced Learners

Call For Infomation About Summer Camp

Great Elementary Program with small classrooms Scholarships Available McKay, FL Pride & Others

K-5 Thru 5th Grade 6th Thru 12th Grade (Limited Seats Available)

Member of ACSI

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 79

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 80

��

� � ��

��

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

WHAT A GREAT VALUE! 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. PRICE REDUCED TO $189,900. Call today for a showing. #611

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

RENTALS AVAILABLE!

JUST TAKE A LOOK!

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

PERFECT FIRST HOME Your 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

Brand New 3BR/2BA Home for $1150 Per Month Adorable 2 Bedroom Home for $800 Per Month Both Homes Available Immediately Good Credit Required. No Pets. Call Ronnie for Additional Info

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 81

MONEY

��

Money Market

��

*Current historical 7-day taxable money market yield available on 12/01/06. Effective yield assumes reinvested income. The rate on the money market fund will ﬂuctuate. An investment in the Fund is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Although the Fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the fund. You should consider the investment objective, risks, and charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information. Your Edward Jones investment representative can provide a prospectus, or visit our website at: www.edwardjones.com, which should be read carefully before investing.

Michael S. Cameron 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563

INVESTING

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

Time for New Year’s Financial Resolutions O

nce again, it’s time to make New Year’s resolutions. If you can succeed in your efforts to exercise more, travel, learn a new language or any of the other worthy goals you might have, you can expand your horizons and enjoy a better quality of life. But if you want to make an even bigger impact on your future, you may want to make - and keep - financial resolutions for the coming year. As with all resolutions, the financial ones are easier to keep if they don’t force you to drastically change your lifestyle. So, with that in mind, here are a few attainable financial resolutions to consider for 2007: Increase your retirement plan contributions. If your salary goes up this year, increase the percentage of your earnings that you defer into your 401(k) plan (or your 403(b), if you work for a non-profit agency, or 457(b) if you work for a state, county, city or other governmental agency. With tax-deferred growth, pre-tax contributions and a variety of investment choices, these plans are great retirement savings vehicles. Plus, since the money is taken out before it even reaches your check, you won’t really “miss” your increased payments. And in 2007, the contribution limit for these plans has increased to $15,500. (If you’re 50 or older, you can contribute an additional $5,000.)

813 / 759 - 1491

“Max out” on your IRA. In 2007, you can put up to $4,000 into a traditional or Roth IRA, or $5,000 if you are 50 or older. If you cannot come up with the maximum amount at once, try dividing your IRA contributions into 12 equal monthly payments and have the money taken automatically from a checking or savings account.

��

Build adequate cash reserves. Try to build a sufficient cash cushion - about six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses - to handle any unexpected financial needs, such as a major car repair or an expensive new appliance. By building an emergency fund, you won’t need to tap into your investments. And by giving your investments the potential to grow as long as possible, you’ll accelerate your chances for progress toward your long-term financial goals. Review your investment portfolio. It’s a good idea to review your investment portfolio at least once a year. Over the course of 12 months, your life can change in many ways; e.g., new spouse, new house, new child, new job, etc. And if your life changes significantly, your investment goals may also change. But even if your circumstances haven’t changed much in a year, you should review your holdings to make sure your investment mix reflects your individual risk tolerance, time horizon and long-term objectives. A financial professional can help you review your investments to make sure you are still on track. Don’t take a “time out” from investing. In every year, you can find any number of events - war, political turmoil, natural disasters, market volatility, etc. - that might motivate you to “take a break” from investing. But the most successful investors keep on investing, no matter how gloomy the news may be. So, in 2007, look beyond the headlines. Instead, focus on quality investments and your long-term investment strategies. If you can achieve these New Year’s resolutions, you’ll go a long way toward potentially improving your financial situation in 2007 - and beyond.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 82

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 83

MONEY

BUSINESS PROFILE

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Sherry Baldwin Photos by Sherry Baldwin and from Floyd Publications Archives

Linda Blackburn, Blackburn & Associates Realty DOING BUSINESS WITH HER HEART to sell a home.” In addition, Linda Blackburn is a licensed mortgage loan ofﬁcer with EValue Mortgage, keeping loan costs down. “This service actually helps both buyers and sellers save money,” added Blackburn. Looking toward the year ahead, Blackburn shared that her goals include moving forward in a struggling market, the continued use of broad advertising, and adding more motivated sales associates to her team. “We are growing and succeeding because we’re doing good business.” Blackburn

inda Blackburn, owner of Blackburn & Associates Realty located in Plant City, is no stranger to hard work. In fact, Blackburn became a business owner by the age of 22. Before long, she was drawn into the field of Real Estate. Upon becoming a Licensed Real Estate Sales Associate, Blackburn chose to place her license with a large national firm. While she appreciated the knowledge garnered there, the overall experience reignited the entrepreneurial fire from her younger years. After passing the Real Estate Broker’s Licensing Exam, she opened Blackburn & Associates Realty. Sadly, in the midst of realizing her dream, Linda Blackburn’s husband, Mark, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer and passed away. Left to raise three children alone, Blackburn was determined to make her office of realtors a success.

Today, Blackburn & Associates Realty includes a “team” of 16 highly qualified Real Estate Sales Associates. According to Blackburn, everyone benefits from the teamwork philosophy adopted by her agency. In addition, the newer sales associates profit from their mentor’s expertise while at the same time creating a bond between them. “I am really proud of the way everyone here gets along,” added Blackburn. The success of these sales associates is important to Blackburn. Blackburn and Associates Realty team stands out among the rest due to “innovative marketing strategies.” Listing homes for 2% - 4% commission rates has also become synonymous with Blackburn & Associates Realty. This is based in Blackburn’s firm belief that, “It does not take 6% or 7%

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 84

also added, “Our repeat referral business is phenomenal.” Another key to her success has been the fact that she has built her business by surrounding herself with like-minded individuals. Those individuals, like her, truly do business with their hearts. In her free time, Linda Blackburn also shared that she enjoys spending time with her family. This includes assisting her daughter with college admission applications. Blackburn also loves her Paso Fino horses and is preparing for a family snow skiing trip out west this spring.

Linda Blackburn, Owner of Blackburn & Associates Realty, located in Plant City

��

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ��

NEED HELP? No Job Too Small

Tile Installation • Drywall • Siding Construction & Re-Modeling Tree Trimming & Removal Handyman Services Residential & Commercial Interior/Exterior Painting

We Do It All.

Licensed & Insured The Finishing Touch 813.833.9909 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 85

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 86

��

MODEL NOW OPEN ��

FOR SALE IN HIGHLAND CREEK ��

��

$392,900

��

SOLD

FOR SALE IN HIGHLAND CREEK ��

$370,000

��

NEW YEAR’S SPECIAL 50% OFF LOT PREMIUMS AND CLOSING COSTS PAID BY MILLENNIUM HOMES

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 87

SPORTS

BASKETBALL

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Joe Bowles Photos from Floyd Publications Archives

Hoop Season Underway for Raiders and Cougars PLANT CITY AND DURANT BOYS BASKETBALL SEASON HEATS UP

he beginning of the basketball seasons for both Durant and Plant City appeared promising with the Cougar boys winning their first three contests and the Raider boys winning their first five games. Since their hot starts, the Raiders have cooled down some while the Cougars have struggled a little more.

Gary Meyer’s Raiders played six games prior to their two scheduled holiday tournaments, winning five of their first six contests. On November 14th, the Raiders opened their season with a win at Jenkins in Lakeland 63 – 45. Their second win came against Spoto 67 – 56, before squeaking by Blake by a single bucket 62 – 60. Win number four was an impressive 17-point defeat of Sarasota High 64 – 47. Next came their fifth win against rival and

neighbor, Durant by the score of 66 – 39. Their lone defeat came at the hands of Sarasota Riverview 54 – 39. Last season Durant and Plant City split their two contests with both games decided by a margin of two points. This season with both schools coming into the contest undefeated, another close game was expected. This time, however, the Raiders held a commanding 50 – 24 halftime lead, only to extend that lead further in the second half to 27 points. On December 8th, Plant City suffered its ﬁrst loss against a talented Sarasota Riverview team. With the score at the end of three quarters knotted at 37, the Rams buried the Raiders in the last period 17 – 2 when the Raiders inside man and leading rebounder, Denzel Drone, fouled out. After the ﬁrst six games, Plant City’s leading scorer is Jeff Knight, who is averaging 15.6 points per game. Denzel Drone is the leader off the boards with 11.2 rebounds per contest. The December 15th contest against the Brandon Eagles at the Raiders’ gym was one that was forgettable. With the contest barely underway, an altercation took place between Denzel Drone and Bran-

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 88

don’s Mike Brown that turned into a pushing and shoving match between players on the court that quickly escalated into spectators coming onto the court to involve themselves in the fracas. After order was restored, the game was suspended and all five starters from both squads were suspended indefinitely by the Florida High School Athletics Association. Later the suspensions were lifted against all of the players except the two that started the fight. They will not be allowed to play for six weeks. The Raiders will miss Drone’s inside presence, but he should be back in time for the playoffs. During the winter holidays, Plant City agreed to participate in two tournaments. The first was Auburndale’s McGrady Shootout. In the opening game, the Raiders lost to Carol City and then later defeated South Florida Christian. Their next tournament will be held in Lakeland at the McKeel Academy with five other area schools participating. Durant’s first three victories came at the expense of Robinson on November 28th by a score of 68 – 51, followed by a win on the road at Lennard 76 – 38, and a home win against East Bay 59 – 58 on December 5th.

Following the Plant City game, the Cougars dropped one to Lakeland by 19 points and then lost three games in the Outback Steakhouse Invitational Tournament, an event, according to Head Coach Jeff Shotwell, that had its share of talented teams. Durant’s leading scorer prior to the holiday tourney was A.J. Garden, who was averaging 15.2 points per game and their leading rebounder was Denaldi Bradley, who was averaging 5.6 rebounds per contest. After the holiday tournaments, both the Cougars and Raiders will resume regular season play on January 3rd with Durant hosting Armwood and Plant City playing at home against Riverview.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 89

SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photo by Holly Mallalieu

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

COLIN GILL O

ne sports season is over with another one in its place, and we’re far from introducing all of the outstanding athletes Plant City claims. The high school soccer team is up and running strong, with Colin Gill, the team’s captain, leading them. It may be his ﬁrst year holding such a position, but playing soccer is the farthest thing from new to Gill. As a senior this year he plays the position of forward for the Plant City High School team, which he has been a part of for the past four years. But he’s been playing the game since he was three. As a kid, he participated in club soccer, and was part of select teams in the city. The school’s boys’ new head soccer coach, Coach Vanderluit, who also has Gill as a culinary student, had only great things to say about him. “I knew Colin from my class,” he said. “He’s just a really good player; he’s got a pleasant attitude, works hard and is a good example out there.” This is Coach Vanderluit’s very ﬁrst year as soccer coach, and he’s doing a great job leading the players. The team practices two to three times per week, and they’re doing very well in their games. Gill isn’t just putting a halt to soccer after high school. (He’s too good!) He’s going to attend Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers when he graduates this coming May, and play soccer for the school. Be sure to keep an eye out for Colin Gill’s next soccer game-#14! He’s doing a great job as captain this year, and we wish him the best luck in his future with soccer.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 90

�� 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

~Allcare Rehabilitation, Healing Since 1990 ~ Aquatic Therapy • Sprains and Strains • Bone and Joint Injuries • Auto Injuries Work Conditioning & Rehabilitation • Work Related Injuries • Wound Care Sports Related Injuries • Spinal Injuries • Pain Management • Wellness Programs Neurological Conditions • High Performance Sports Training

THE STAFF AT ALLCARE WISHES YOU A HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR!! ! FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 91

HEALTH

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Submitted by Dr. Jeﬀrey Dunn

Fighting the Signs of Aging CHOOSE YOUR WEAPON

Wrinkles are literally a sign of the times. They are caused by both genetic and environmental factors such as sunlight, makeup, cigarette smoke and other pollutants. Regardless of their cause, many women ﬁnd their laugh lines to be no laughing matter.

and legs, and may be customized for each patient’s skin type and needs. While licensed estheticians may perform light peels within a salon setting, medium and deep peels must be performed within a supervising physician’s ofﬁce.

What can we do to correct the skin damage that created our wrinkles, laugh lines, age spots and other bothersome blemishes? Luckily, today’s technology provides great non-invasive options in our ﬁght to look younger longer.

IPL PHOTOFACIALS AND SKIN REJUVENATION Exposure to sunlight over time can cause skin to develop age spots, freckles, uneven pigmentation and rosacea, making skin look older. IPL photofacials can help restore a clearer and more youthful facial complexion, while IPL skin rejuvenation removes skin blemishes on the shoulders, chest, hands, arms and back. The IPL utilizes light energy, which stimulates the production of collagen, softening the appearance of aging skin, decreasing ﬁne lines and wrinkles and removing facial redness, erasing pigmented spots and reducing pore size. There is minimal, if any, discomfort and no down time.

CHEMICAL PEELS Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of skin so that a smoother, more evenly pigmented, glowing layer of skin can appear. They can reduce or eliminate ﬁne lines, correct uneven skin pigmentation, remove precancerous skin growths, and soften acne or treat scars caused by acne. Wrinkles and scarring can be reduced, as well as skin blemishes common with age and heredity. Chemical peels can be performed on the face, neck, chest, hands, arms

MICRODERMABRASION Microdermabrasion is a quick, noninvasive procedure used to resurface

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 92

the skin. It gently removes only the very top layers of damaged skin by “sand blasting” them with tiny crystals, exfoliating the skin and promoting the formation of new smoother, clearer skin. It is usually performed on the face and neck, but can be performed on any part of the body (such as the backs of the hands). Microdermabrasion can correct rough skin texture, some types of scarring, uneven pigmentation, and age (liver) spots. It can also remove or improve whiteheads and black heads, some stretch marks, and fine wrinkles. INJECTIONS: SOFT TISSUE AUGMENTATION, BOTOX & MESO-LIFT Wrinkles or scars that are too deep to remove via other methods may be improved with skin care procedures involving injections. Soft tissue augmentation involves injecting filler substances under a wrinkle or scar to plump up the tissue. The growing list of injectable wrinkle fillers include fat grafts, Zyderm®, Artecoll®, AlloDerm®, CosmoDerm™, Restylane®, Perlane® and Radiesse®.

Botox injections are also used to improve the appearance of wrinkles. However, rather than “plumping up” the area, Botox temporarily paralyzes the tiny facial muscles that cause the wrinkling. Meso-lift treatments involve “microinjections” of a customized cocktail of nutrients just under the skin’s surface. Strategically placed facial injections increase collagen and elastin production, enhancing cheekbone prominence, decreasing fat under the eyes or chin, and reducing the amount of fat in the neck. The appearance of smile lines or jowls can also be decreased. Have questions? A consultation with a skin care specialist, such as a physician or esthetician can be invaluable in helping you choose the best weapon in your ﬁght to look younger longer. Dr. Jeffrey Dunn, D.C. is the owner of Remedi Spa & Chiropractic Center.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 93

HEALTH

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Submitted by Sherry Nueesch

Weight Loss Tips meal should be dinner. Your body burns more fat while you are awake than when you are asleep. Don’t multitask. When it is time to eat, just eat. Avoid eating while watching TV, driving, or on the computer. Concentrate and thoroughly enjoy what you are eating. Savor the aroma, texture and consistency, as well as the ﬂavor.

recently came across these weight loss and healthy eating tips. I thought they were quite valid and sensible, so I thought I would pass them on to you. Of course, exercise is the number one key to permanent weight loss. If dieting alone worked, we would all be thin. We have certainly done enough of them. Below are some really good ideas to help you make some better choices in the coming year. Hope this helps. Fruit is your friend. Four servings of fruit a day promotes fat burning. Thermogenesis is the generation of body heat that occurs as a result of normal digestion, absorption, and metabolization of food. Fruit is your best choice to make this happen. Eat the “Rainbow Foods.” The brighter the color of the fruit or vegetable, the more nutrients it contains. Royalty eating: eat like a King at breakfast, a Queen for lunch and a pauper for dinner. Your biggest and best meal should be breakfast and your smallest

Avoid needing will power. If it is not good for you, “Don’t buy it.” NO MATTER WHO LIVES IN YOUR HOUSE. As long as they are living with you, make them eat healthy also, or they can just go buy it themselves. If you buy snacks for someone else like your spouse or kids, then buy the kind YOU don’t like. Also remember, if you bought snacks for someone else, it’s their food, leave it alone. Make a stack of magazines, one for every pound that you want to lose. Remove a magazine for every pound you lose. Watch the stack get smaller and smaller. Follow the B.S. rule of eating. Eat baked and steamed. Add fiber with fruits and vegetables to your diet. For every gram of fiber, you block 7 calories. 35 grams of fiber a day results in 245 blocked calories. Eat at every meal. Skipping meals is the equivalent of not putting gas in your car. Sooner or later your tank empties, you end up running on empty and overeat to compensate. Feed your body reasonably and on schedule and you are less likely to experience ravenous hunger. Losing weight is about learning how to eat, not

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 94

about not to eat. You will never be successful at moving the scales unless you learn to move yourself everyday. Move your knees more than your elbow. Don’t call it exercise, call it movement. You should eat your breakfast within two hours of waking up. 78% of people who maintain a weight loss for ﬁve years eat breakfast everyday. Something is wrong if you “love to eat.” Learn to love yourself and others, not food.

your body and not just feed it has so many rewards I couldn’t begin to list them all here. The best reward of all will be the reward of health. The nutrients our bodies need to stay healthy aren’t found in a box or can. They are found on the vine and in natural sources. Hopefully in 2007 more of us will learn to eat to live and not live to eat. Wishing you a healthy and happy New Year; to your health, Sherry Nueesch.

I am adding one of my own. Eat real food. Learning to nourish

SEE OUR NEW OFFERS BELOW! PLANT CITY .....Plant City Crossings 2621 Thonotosassa Rd. .....752-6631

25% OFF

APOLLO BEACH ................................Apollo Beach 220 Apollo Beach Blvd ..............................645-1499 BLOOMINGDALE ..... Royal Oaks Shopping Center 3248 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd ........................... 654-8113

��

BLOOMINGDALE ...... Just S. of Bloomingdale Ave. 3513 Bell Shoals Rd. .................................645-9292

��

BRANDON ............................. Lake Brandon Village 11393 Causeway Blvd. ..............................643-6944 FISHHAWK ...............................................Fishhawk 16707 Fishhawk Blvd. ...............................654-7991

RIVERVIEW .......................................Goolsby Point 11697 Boyette Rd. .....................................672-1832

*Board Certiﬁed OB/GYN’s Over 14 years experience ��

25% OFF

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. No combining coupons. No same day service. FM Expires: February 15, 2007

25% OFF

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. No combining coupons. No same day service. Expires: February 15, 2007 FM

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

20% OFF

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

Wedding Gowns, Comforters, Blankets, Alterations, Drapes

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

FULL-TIME PLANT CITY OB/GYN’S ��

Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. No combining coupons. No same day service. Expires: February 15, 2007 FM

BRANDON ....................................In Front of Publix 913 W. Brandon Blvd. ................................684-4499

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

��

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning

Minimum Order $5. Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. No combining coupons. No same day service. FM Expires: February 15, 2007

��

1406 W. Knight Grifﬁn Rd Planty City, FL

752-3306

��

Specializing in Pregnancy & Female Care of all Ages

WOMEN FIRST CENTER

719-3380

1601 W. Timberlane Dr. Suite 600 Plant City, FL 33566

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 95

HEALTH

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Submitted by John C. Carrozella, M.D.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome C

arpal Tunnel Syndrome is a very common problem that affects millions of people and causes a great deal of pain, discomfort and lost productivity. It is a medical condition that affects the major nerve to the hand and results in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain that radiates up the arm, clumsiness and significant dysfunction of the hands and fingers. Often progressive, this very simple to understand affliction, if left untreated, can lead to permanent nerve damage in the hand.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome falls into a class of conditions known as Compressive Neuropathies. Very simply, the nerve involved – the Median nerve – is compressed or squeezed as it enters the hand. The Median Nerve is the major nerve of the hand. It’s formed by the coalition of several nerves in the neck and it travels to the hand via the forearm. As it passes into the hand it travels through a tunnel that is made up of bony structures on three sides and a ligament on the fourth side. Also in the Carpal Tunnel are nine tendons, a small artery and a lining tissue known as Synovium. In the normal condition there is plenty of room for all

of these structures. If for some reason, the space available for the structures diminishes, the problems occur. Typically, the symptoms occur in a very consistent and recognizable pattern. People often complain that they occur at night as they sleep. Frequently those with this problem will wake up several times and they will complain that their ‘hands have fallen asleep’. Other typical times for Carpal Tunnel symptoms to develop are while reading, talking on the telephone or while driving. Many people also believe that Carpal Tunnel syndrome can be affected by activities at work. There are those who will insist that repetitive use of the hands such as when people type at computers or are exposed to vibratory machinery will cause Carpal Tunnel syndrome, but that relationship is very controversial. Actually the most common reason for Carpal Tunnel to develop is for no reason at all!! Once the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel have become intolerable, most people will visit their doctor or a surgeon who does Carpal Tunnel surgery. Initial treatment can

range from observation to nighttime splinting, anti-inﬂammatory medication, vitamin supplementation or Cortisone injection. All these treatments are often very effective in the early stages of the problem. However, if the person has an underlying medical problem the symptoms are often more severe and rapidly progressive. Once the early treatments have become ineffective or they start to rapidly progress, it is time to visit the surgeon. Many times patients will undergo a nerve test prior to getting a surgical recommendation. The nerve test can tell exactly where the nerve compression is occurring and will assist the surgeon in making the appropriate recommendation for treatment. Some very experienced surgeons who see patients with typical Carpal Tunnel will in some cases be able to make the diagnosis without a nerve test. With worsening symptoms that interfere with normal activities, it is time to consider surgery. Carpal tunnel surgery is one of the most common operations done in the United States today and, in most cases, it is very effective. In a

��

good surgeon’s hands, over 99% of people undergoing Carpal Tunnel surgery will obtain signiﬁcant, if not complete, relief. While complications can and do occur in any operation, Carpal Tunnel surgery has become a very reliable surgery with a very predictable outcome in most cases. This operation is most often done as an outpatient and there are a variety of techniques available, from traditional release to endoscopic minimal incision techniques. Laser techniques have been used in the past, but their relative advantage over the other techniques has become less clear in recent years. Following surgery, most people are doing light activities immediately with a relatively rapid return to normal activity within a few weeks. If you have symptoms that sound like Carpal Tunnel, you can feel free to call one of the surgeons at Sand Hill Bone and Joint. Combined, Dr. Carrozzella and Dr. Ott have done several thousands of these operations, and they have the experience necessary to evaluate, diagnose and treat this very common problem.

��

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

• General Orthopedics • Total Joint Replacement • Partial Joint Replacement • Mini Incision Joint Replacement

• Sports Medicine • Fracture & Injury Care • Arthroscopic Surgery • Ligament Reconstruction

116 N. Kings Ave. Brandon, Fl 33510

(813) 490-1393

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 96

Certiﬁed: Board Certiﬁed D.O.

�� 1601 W. Timberlane Dr., Suite 500 ��

��

Plant City, Fl 33567

(813) 754-0817

��

ALL NEW SMOOTHIE BAR

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 97

EXTRA

AUTO REVIEW

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Brian West Photos courtesy of GMC

Tough On the Outside, Pretty On the Inside THE 2007 GMC SIERRA PICKUP APPEALS TO THE MASSES

eneral Motors Corporation (GMC) has been making pickups since they began in the automobile business, but, redesigned on the inside and out, the 2007 GMC Sierra pickup is the best version yet. If you’ve seen the new Yukon, the new Sierra is wearing the same skin. The entire GMC family received the new facelift for 2007. Just when you think the lines can’t get any sleeker, they step it up a notch. The new styling is smooth and clean. The body panels emphasize the change the most with a slightly rounded form; roughly from the bottom of the window to the bottom of the door panel that runs the length of each side of the vehicle. Trucks are meant to be tough. For the most part, they’re tools that help get the job done. So the most important capabilities for true truck enthusiasts are towing and hauling. The 2007 Sierra has six different engine options; everything from a

4.3L V6 to a 6.0L V8. But GMC is now offering a 5.3L Flex-Fuel V8, capable of using gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol (E85), which is becoming a more popular option. Any one of these features will satisfy the needs of those who truly use a truck. You can’t seriously consider a truck without some thought to the size, use and versatility of the bed. The new GMC is available in short, standard and long box conﬁgurations. But GMC brings additional versatility with their cargo management system – an inﬁnite range of positions for various cargo tools, including a sliding metal tool box, commercial overhead rack, and sliding metal divider. Each tool is mounted onto two rails that run the length of each side of the bed. The rails will support 500 pounds each, which should handle most tasks you or others could dream up – like helping friends move.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 98

The interior of the new Sierra is beautiful. It’s exceptionally comfortable and certainly not your grandfather’s GMC. The dash has the look and feel of most new cars on the road today, complete with wood grain trim, including one piece about 4 inches wide and 18 inches long that runs across the front of the dash facing the passenger seat. There is an optional touch screen navigation system for the center console. The display is large, but would probably be better suited on top of the dash so the driver’s line of sight wouldn’t have to lower from the roadway ahead. The same control center features an AM/FM stereo and CD/MP3 player. The four door version of the Sierra has a rear seat that’s easy to climb in and out of, and plenty of interior room to seat ﬁve adults comfortably. Safety might not be at the top of your list when considering a new truck, but GMC is proud of the safety rating they received with the

2007 Sierra; a full 5-star government rating for the front-impact crash test; pretty impressive. The literature describes their desire to design safety into the vehicle in an effort to provide protection before, during and after a collision. This includes a 360 degree system of sensors to determine which airbags are appropriate to deploy for optimal protection. Finally, the sticker price on the new GMC Sierra can range from about $18,000 to $38,000 depending on the options. The model I drove was what most would consider loaded; most of the bells and whistles you could want, including leather. The sticker was $33,229. If you think you’re interested in a new Sierra, visit Lott-Mather GMC Buick Pontiac. They have great service and can help you ﬁnd the one that’s just for you.

EXTRA

AL RUECHEL

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

By Al Ruechel

Show on Predators Gets Old! why they are there. The reporter confronts them with the words from their own Internet chats. They all have excuses. They all deny they came for sex, at least at first. There are doctors, engineers, mechanics, salesmen and computer programmers. They are tall and skinny, fat and muscular, with hair and without, young and old. They look like any other man you’d meet in any walk of life. Ah, but here is the best part! After the reporter finishes with the interview the men attempt to leave and find themselves surrounded by deputies with drawn weapons. Some of the men are wrestled to the ground, screaming with guilt and fear knowing their lives as they used to know them are over. They are processed in a nearby police interrogation trailer. Most of the men agree to have those interrogations video taped for the program.

guess nothing should surprise me on TV these days. Recently I was surﬁng the tube and saw a program on a major network about catching sexual predators. It was a sting operation where the reporter and the local authorities attempt to snag adults who are trying to meet underage teen girls for sex. The program had no problem ﬁnding men who strike up online conversations with a decoy who plainly tells them she is just 13 years old. In case you are pathetically ignorant, it is against the law to engage in sex with a minor. It is

against the law to use the Internet for the purposes of acquiring sex with an underage minor. If you take part in these kinds of acts and are caught, you are going to jail. All of the men seemed surprised when they arrived at the minor’s home for their online rendezvous and suddenly the reporter pops out from another room and asks them to sit down while he questions them about their Internet conversations. All the interviews sound nearly identical. The men all lie about

Again, the men have no answers for the behavior. The Internet conversations are pornographic, detailing what kinds of sex they’d like to have with the minor. They tell the cops they are scared to death. They say they can’t talk without an attorney, but then spill their guts. All program long I kept waiting for something to make sense. Surely this program was about more than just showing man after man walking into the house with the decoy, getting caught and trying to make excuses for their behavior? Heck, I’m a journalist and know that exposing crime and showing people in the act of being stupid IS a good thing. Hopefully, by exposing these Internet

crimes on the air the number of sexual predator encounters will drop. The motive is superb and laudable. Here’s where it gets a bit cloudy for me. I thought this was a onetime investigative piece. So you can imagine my surprise to see nearly the same story a week later with another hour-long parade of sick men with sick excuses. It was the same opening shots, in a different house, with another decoy, another camera crew, and the same reporter popping in again, seeking an explanation. There was no new information and no explanations that made sense and no end in sight. Later the host proudly proclaimed that the network has been running these kind of lengthy segments on sexual predators for two years. To date over 180 men have been caught in the act and are in the process of being brought to justice. Fantastic! Great! I am in full agreement. But when does catching men in the act get old? How many examples do we need to see on TV before the point is made? And here’s the question that cuts to the chase: Is this network also taking part in these sting operations because it makes compelling TV or because it brings in the ratings? I’m almost afraid to know the answer!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 99

EXTRA

TRAVEL

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Daniel Sperry

Take A Walk On The Wild Side

HILLSBOROUGH RIVER STATE PARK IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

here is a gem waiting to be discovered in the northern part of Hillsborough County. Located just a half hour drive from Plant City is the Hillsborough River State Park. Whether it is day trip or a weekend of camping, the park offers an amazing array of activities, sights and escapes that will soothe body and soul. Working the nine to ﬁve grind week in and week out takes a toll on the hardiest of individuals, but if a person can ﬁnd the time to slip away for a few hours or a few days to this lovely campground, it will be an unforgettable experience. Just a short drive west down I-4 to 301 north will leave the sights and sounds of the city behind. Enter a wonderland of Florida’s untouched wilderness as the park’s gates are passed and be prepared to see a side of Florida that has disappeared as its cities have grown. There are almost always camp sites available which have electricity and water. Feeling civilized is never a problem. But if roughing it is not the ideal way

to spend the day, just visit the park for a few hours. There are paths to be hiked along the Hillsborough River, canoes to be rented for an afternoon drifting along the water or bikes which can be used to cruise throughout the park. Along the paths by the river, there is an abundance of native Florida wildlife. People fish from the raised walkways, and every now and then an alligator appears to snatch away some unlucky fisherman’s catch. That’s just what happened to Marty Friedman as he was fishing recently. “I couldn’t believe it,” Friedman said. “I had a huge gar on the line, and the gator came out of nowhere and just grabbed it and snapped my line!” The gator could just be made out on the far bank of the river. Not too big, maybe five or six feet long. Every few minutes its jaws would snap and the crunching sound of it devouring its prize could be heard up and down the waterway. Nearby children were enthralled, and their parents may have been even more so. Rarely seen hawks swoop in and out of the trees along the river, otters can occasionally be seen playing on the shores, and of course, lizards and frogs are in abundance. For the best views of the birds and other animals, taking the time to rent a canoe is the best way to go. Paddle as quietly as possible up and down the river, and wildlife is certain to be seen. A number of unusual waterfowl are often present and a lucky few may see rare woodpeckers which have made homes among the trees along the river’s edge.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 100

The park is also rich in history. The path through the park was once part of a trail that led from Ocala all the way to Tampa and St. Petersburg. There is an old colonial fort not too far away, and the park offers guided tours at various times to ensure visitors do not miss anything. The campground is superb, with bathhouses nearby and activities available on the wveekends for the kids. Besides all the wildlife and rustic activities, the park also

features a massive modern pool and a restaurant and store where guests can enjoy a meal, buy souvenirs or just get a dish of ice cream or cup of coffee, depending on the weather. On those days when it seems that the work just never ends, remember just a short distance away is the perfect place to get away from the modern world and get back in touch with God’s creation, untouched, unspoiled and unspeakably beautiful.

Health Solutions Wellness Center

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 101

D&E

DINING REVIEW

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Randy Dedon Photos courtesy of Carrabba’s Corporate Oﬃces

Carrabba’s Italian Grill ITALY COMES TO PLANT CITY One might assume with the opening of Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Plant City that we now have another chain restaurant to include in our choice of where to go for dinner. Hold that thought, Buster; you might want to get a little more information before establishing any conclusions. During my visit, managing partner, Alfredo Porto demonstrated the passion behind everything Carrabba’s does. From the pride taken in the quality and freshness of every meal being served, to the genuine desire to create a relaxed, welcoming environment for every guest entering the door, I realized this is not just another chain restaurant. A little background information may be in order. Carrabba’s was established in Houston, TX, in 1986 by Johnny Carrabba and his uncle, Damian Mandola. Both had a long history in the restaurant business, which served them well in their new venture. Their desire was to create a casual dining experience using recipes handed down from generations of this close Italian family. They partnered with Outback Steakhouse in 1993 to establish the foundation for the tremendous growth they have experienced. To say they succeeded minimizes the passion for which Italians are famous. Carrabba’s believes it is their duty to move

each guest beyond the function of eating a meal to truly enjoying a complete dining experience. This is evident from the moment you enter the softly lit dining room. The Tuscan themed décor sets the feeling of an authentic Italian restaurant. The knowledgeable staff deftly assists you with difﬁcult decisions on items to select from the menu. On this occasion we began our meal with the Super Tuscan selection

from the wine list featuring Italian and California vintages, a full bodied wine made from a mixture of traditional Italian and French grapes. Our server, Joel, then brought out our appetizers. I had the calamari, which was better than advertised, and my wife had the mussels which just melted in your mouth among the white wine and lemon butter sauce. We then enjoyed the Insalata ﬁorucci salad, a mixture of ﬁeld greens, artichoke hearts, eggplant

CRITICAL INFO

CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL 1205 Townsgate Ct • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813-752-0760 www.carrabbas.com Hours of operation Mon- Thurs 4-10 • Fri - Sat 4-11 • Sun 3-10 Luncheons by reservation All major credit cards accepted Kids menu from $4.99-$5.99

and red bell peppers topped with hazelnut goat cheese. Now that our senses were awakened, we were properly prepared for the main course. Joel was emphatic in suggesting we select items from the grilled chicken offerings. I was completely amazed at the complexity of the flavors in the Chicken Bryan, while my wife was overwhelmed with the Pollo Rosa Maria, a chicken breast stuffed with fontina cheese and prosciutto and topped with mushrooms and the basil lemon butter sauce. We then completed the meal with the cannoli for dessert, a light blend of sweet ricotta and chocolate chip filling. Now don’t think that Carrabba’s believes that the relationship that has now been created ends with a meal. Alberto spoke of their belief in civic responsibility to the community they serve, an example being that 50% of the net proceeds from their opening night, totaling $4,714.03, were donated to the Florida Strawberry Research and Education Foundation. The lessons Johnny and Damien learned growing up as part of a loving, tightly woven Italian family have helped to create a restaurant that reflects that sense of community they hold so dear. Just another chain restaurant for Plant City, I don’t think so.

Chicken Bryan

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 102

Cannoli

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 103

D&E ��

Crossword:

JUST FOR FUN

by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews

Buyers Market

109 W. REYNOLDS PLANT CITY, FL 33563

Kim A. Allen (813) 719-8922

��

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

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

��

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 104

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 105

D&E

ENTERTAINMENT

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Linda Floyd Photos courtesy of Ramada Inn Plantation House

Happy New Year!

CELEBRATED IN STYLE AT THE RED ROSE ored Thing,” there were quite a few couples on the dance ﬂoor showing off their “ballroom” moves.

Happy New Year in the Red Rose Ballroom

2007 was brought in with style and the usual class that has become the trademark of the Ramada Inn Plantation House’s Red Rose Dining Room and Ballroom. With four different sets of entertainers taking the stage at both venues, the customary hats, noisemakers, champagne and balloon drops, New Year’s Eve at the Red Rose was definitely one to remember. From the red carpet leading to the ballroom lined on both sides with lighted garland, to the beautiful ice sculpture of a diamond ring in its lobby, representing the number one single of one of the headliners, the ambience and decor of the Red Rose Ballroom was breathtaking. Using black, grey and white motif, with centerpieces of glass mirrors with large “diamonds” all around a beautiful vase with tall feathers in black or white, the elegant stage was set for a wonderful night of celebrating. First onstage in the ballroom was the newly-formed group SecondWind, consisting of two former members of Rat Pack Too, Ralph Allocco and Mellissa Malone, with the wonderful addition of James Scofield. In his early 20’s, Scofield’s voice and knowledge of the “old school” tunes

belies his young age. As an added bonus during their second set, while singing the sweetest love song, Scoﬁeld surprised his girlfriend with a marriage proposal witnessed by the entire room. As Hillary Casey, president of SecondWind’s fan club, so aptly put it, “Evelyn and Batista, Sr. Madonia are renown in their ability to capture the best in Tampa Bay entertainment, and SecondWind was so proud to be spotlighted in the ballroom on such a special night.” The audience was proud they were, too! The next group to entertain was The Four Aces. Starting out in the early ‘50’s, they were one of the most successful pre-Rock ’n Roll groups. Fred Diodati, the charismatic tenor who is the lead singer and front man for The Four Aces, is the only original member, and at 75, is still an energetic and personable entertainer. Joe Giglio, their guitarist, performed a boisterous rendition of “Malaguena.” Harry Heisler played a mean trumpet, both in accompaniment and as a soloist, and is the group’s bass singer. The newest member, Joe Amato, is also an excellent tenor, and he can sing bass as well. When they sang “Love is a Many Spend-

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 106

Then it was time for Destiny, the house band of the Red Rose Dining Room, whose repertoire is so varied they can play pretty much anything. That’s when the dance floor really started filling up. Dennis Hoag, Genesis Alvarez and Bruce Farr belted out many favorites and the party was in full swing by the time the headliner, Gary Lewis and the Playboys, took to the stage. Gary Lewis and the Playboys were discovered by producer Snuff Garret in the summer of 1964. By 1965, Gary Lewis was Cash Box magazine’s “Male Vocalist of the Year,” and he was the only artist in the ‘60’s to have his first seven releases reach Billboard magazine’s Top 10. He entertained the crowd with some of those hits, such as “This Diamond Ring,” “Count Me In,” “Everybody Loves a Clown” and “She’s Just My Style.” When they broke out in their rendition of Van Morrison’s “Brown-Eyed Girl,” the audience literally emptied their seats

Gary Lewis

in the entire room. It looked like a ﬁre drill. At 12:00 sharp, after counting down the last 10 seconds, balloons dropped over the dance ﬂoor as couples kissed, noise makers were going off, and the crowd was dancing to Gary Lewis and the Playboys sing “Auld Lang Syne.” To all that, add a scrumptious appetizer hour with exquisite hors d’oeuvres, a full buffet dinner complete with a three course carving station and a grand dessert display with chocolate fountains. If you didn’t usher in your New Year’s Eve at Ramada Inn Plantation House’s Red Rose Dining or Ball Room, you missed the best show in town!

James Scoﬁeld of SecondWind proposing to girlfriend

��

s with n of u d e d ovi ctio les pr wide sele a S ithout e W e a r , . T e e n ic lu Warre alized serv d great va o the look t n n perso d plants, a ices added house. I an ak rv e. trees n, their se ʼs Ste anyon k c o t a o M m i the quest l of Louie mend m e o e f c re and ighly h d l u wo k innic teakhouse K y r Ga ckʼs S a M e Loui

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 • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 107

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!

The Pursuit of Happyness Starring: Will Smith, Thandie Newton, Jaden Christopher SyreSmith, Brian Howe Genre: Drama Rated: PG-13 4.5 STARS

How can Academy voters resist Smith, with gray flecks in his hair, in a true story about a homeless single dad and his son? Smith plays Chris Gardner, a San Francisco salesman trying to unload bulky bone scanners while his depressed wife, Linda, works a double shift just to make ends meet. She splits for New York, leaving Chris and their five-year-old son, Christopher to fend for themselves. Rent is due, but Chris thinks he can pursue happiness by getting a stockbroker’s job at Dean Witter. The catch? It’s a training program that doesn’t pay until he gets hired, if he gets hired. Soon, father and son are scrounging for food and living in homeless shelters and train-station bathrooms. Nothing goes right for the characters in the script by Steven Conrad. However, with a small bit of acting talent, and slight glimpses of amazing directing, the envelope is not pushed too far, and it keeps the audience’s emotions tied in with that of the character. Director Gabriele Muccino resists overkill until the final scenes. And Smith wins our hearts without losing his dignity, as Chris suits up for success by day and fights off despair by night. The role needs gravity, smarts, charm, humor and a soul that’s not synthetic. Smith brings it. He provides heart and soul to this already endearing script.

��

1803 JIM REDMAN PKWY. ��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 108

Eragon Starring: Ed Speleers, Jeremy Irons, Sienna Guillory, John Malkovich Genre: Action and Adventure, Science Fiction, Fantasy Rated: PG 4 STARS

This year’s fantasy ﬁlm has hit the big screen. Although Eragon does not quite reach the level of Narnia and Lord of the Rings, it does deliver some good moments for fantasy movie lovers. Followers of the series written by Christopher Paolini may be slightly disappointed; however it is a great ﬁlm to spurn on the child’s imagination.

Good Shepherd We Are Marshall The Starring: Matt Damon, Robert De Niro , Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Matthew Fox, David Strathairn, Ian McShane Genre: Drama Rated: PG

Angelina Jolie, William Hurt Genre: Drama, Romance, Crime and Mystery Rated: R

4.5 STARS

This is a movie that will touch many people even before the credits open. With the story laid out, there is plenty to work with in a touching and dramatic adaptation of the 1970 crash that killed every member of the Marshall football team. It’s a story of an entire college and town, the heartache and rebirth of their hope in a sport. This awesome family ﬁlm can reach even the hardest of hearts.

A new political thriller has come and is borrowing on an old story. The background of the formation of the CIA is fleshed out through one man’s eyes in The Good Shepherd. This is an exciting and mind bending script that keeps you involved and questioning throughout the film. This film is definitely for an older audience, but creates an incredible appreciation about the sacrifice of the people involved in creating our most secret branch of government, the CIA.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 109

D&E

DINING GUIDE

SEND COMMENTS TO SDEDON@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM ABC Pizza 114 N Alexander St 752-5146

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

Giraldo’s 2210 N Park Rd 754-4810

Maryland Fried Chicken 315 N Alexander 752-9200

Snellgrove’s Restaurant 109 S Collins 752-3652

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

Checker’s 2405 Jas Redman Pkwy 759-0151

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

CiCi’s Pizza 211 Alexander St W 659-3400

Hole In One 410 N Alexander St 754-8062

Munchies 1707 James Redman Pkwy 757-5900

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

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

China King Restaurant 2410 James Redman Pkwy 754-8098

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

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

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

Olde Town Pizzeria 3011 James Redman Pkwy 752-5800

Jamrock Caribbean Cuisine 1803 Jas Redman Pkwy 719-7625

Orange Blossom Tea Room 106 Evers St S 759-2247

Anna’s Restaurant 3410 Baker St W 754-6215 Apple Tree 2218 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-8109 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar 1204 Townsgate Ct 719-1500 Arby’s Roast Beef Restaurant 1909 Frontage Rd S 719-3321 Arby’s Roast Beef Restaurant 201 Alexander St W 754-4881 Baker St. Café 1801 W Baker St (Hwy 92 W) 717-9785 Beef O’Brady’s Sports Pub 2418 Jas Redman Pkwy 757-0300 Bobs Sports Grill 226 Alexander St W. 719-8187 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

China One 1862 James Redman Pkwy 707-8898 Church’s Fried Chicken 106 E. Reynolds 754-5200 Collins Street Restaurant 712 S Collins 752-0126 Courtyard 106 E. Reynolds Street 754-0990 Curbita Inc. (Only speaks Spanish) 4109 State Rd 574 754-0620 Dairy Queen 1902 W Reynolds 752-2236 Denny’s Restaurant 2001 Frontage Rd S 752-3338 Domino’s Pizza 202 Alexander St W 759-9424 El 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

Joann’s Country Kitchen 12650 McIntosh Rd Thonotosassa 982-0739 Kazbor’s Grille 2212 James Redman Pkwy 752-2700 Kentucky Fried Chicken 2305 Collins St S 752-0437 La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant 113 Prosser Dr W 659-3940 Linda’s Crab Shack 202 Reynolds E 754-0492 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

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 • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 110

Sunset Menu Offered Daily from 2:30 - 5:30pm

��

Bunless Mushroom Swiss Burger .................... $8.49 ��

Monterey Chicken® .............................................. $8.49 ��

Chicken Crispers® ................................................... $8.49 ��

Grilled Salmon w/Garlic Herbs...................... $10.99 ��

Grilled Baby Back Ribs ...................................... $10.99 ��

Chili’s Classic Sirloin .......................................... $10.99 ��

��

Cajun Chicken Pasta .............................................. $7.29 ��

Sunset Salad ............................................................ $6.29 ��

Sides

� � �

��

HAPPY HOUR

for 11 drinks drinks -- All All day, day, every every day! day! 22 for ��

��

� ��

Light a fire under someone’s taste buds with Chili’s Gif t Cards

3001 James L. Redman Parkway Plant City, FL

813-764-8548 www.chilis.com

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 111

Alexander

J. Redman Parkway

� ��

��

�

All-You-Can-Eat Spare Ribs With the purchase of a beverage 203 W. Alexander Plant City • 813-754-3229 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers Offer Expires 3/21/07

Lunch or Dinner

Woodyʼs BBQ spare ribs, Chicken & Pork with Fried Corn on the cob, French Fries, BBQ Beans and Garlic Toast

Side portion: Your choice of Onion Rings, Fried Squash, or Chili Cheese Fries with the purchase of two regularly priced entrees and two beverages

Purchase one lunch or dinner entree and two beverages and receive the second lunch or dinner entree of equal or lesser value 1/2 off.

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

��

�

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers Offer Expires 3/21/07

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers Offer Expires 3/15/07

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 112

��

�� Appetizer

��

�

Feast for 2 Feast for 4

GRANITE�

��

�� With this coupon. Not valid with other offers Offer Expires 3/21/07

Call Pam 863-670-2092

PLANT CITY January 15,

Monday

A Martin Luther King, Jr. Festival will take place Monday at the MLK Community Center, 1601 E. Dr. MLK Blvd, Plant City. The Midway opens at 11:00 a.m., the Senior Citizens Luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m., and Jazz in the Midway begins at 1:00 p.m. For more information regarding the festival, call 813-757-6760 or visit www.plantcity.org.

January 16,

Tuesday

The Ribbon Cutting and Open House for Carabba’s Italian Grill will take place Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. at 1205 Townsgate Court, Plant City. For more information, visit www.plantcity.org.

January 18,

Thursday

“Business After Hours” will take place at the new ofﬁces of FOCUS Magazine, 101 East J. Arden Mays Blvd. beginning at

Event Calendar

FOCUS staff. Admission is free, but please RSVP by calling the Chamber ofﬁce at 813-754-3707.

Plant City. Call 813-754-3707 or visit www.plantcity.org for more information on the car show.

The Plant City Chapter of Habitat for Humanity is sponsoring a pre-application meeting at the Martin Luther King Rec Center, from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. There is an extensive list of information you MUST have present with you for this meeting. Your pre-application will not be accepted if you do not have the proper information at this meeting, so call (813) 239-2242 for complete details.

Come to the Planteen Recreation Center for a Kid’s Night Out Saturday from 6-9 p.m. For children ages 6-11, the Kid’s Night Out is three hours of chaperoned evening activities including watching movies, playing games, doing crafts, and eating pizza. The cost is only $5 per child. Bring a blanket, a friend, an appetite, and enthusiasm! For more information, contact Christine Washburn at 813-757-9166 or by email at cwashburn@plantcitygov.com.

January 19,

Friday

General Robert E. Lee’s 200th Birthday dinner celebration sponsored by the United Daughters of the Confederacy will take place at the Ramada Inn Plantation House Friday. Call Carolyn Hankins at 813-986-9618 for additional details.

January 20,

Saturday

January 22,

Monday

Get started on the road to a healthy 2007 and a new you by attending the Plant City YMCA’s Open House and Health Fair Monday from 9 am-noon and 4 pm-7:30 pm. Stop by the Open House for demonstrations and information about all the new programs and activities that will take place at our Plant City YMCA during 2007. For more information, call 813-757-6677.

January 25,

Thursday

The Annual Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce 2007 Chairman’s Banquet will take place Thursday at the Ramada Inn Plantation House’s Red Rose Ballroom. The festivities get underway with a reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:15 and the program at 8:00 p.m. This is your opportunity to meet the new Ofﬁcers and Directors. For more information, email info@plantcity.org or visit www.plantcitychamber.org.

5:15 p.m. They will offer refreshments and entertainment as you come on by and meet the

The Strawberry Classic Car Show will begin at 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. in Historic Downtown

January 27,

Saturday

The Florida Opry will be in performance at the 1914 PCHS

Community Center beginning at 7 p.m. The featured performers will be Brian Chytka, The Gospel Truth Quartet, and Jenny Rimmer. Reserved seats are $15 and general admission tickets are $12. For more information, visit www.plantcity.org. Tommy Mara and the Legends of Doo Wop will be in performance at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8 p.m. For reservations call 813752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com. Baby Parade Sign Ups will be held at the Women’s Club located on 1110 N. Wheeler St. Doors will open at 9:00 a.m. and close at 11:00 a.m. The Baby Parade will be held at the Strawberry Festival Grandstand on March12. Each entry must be made in person and accompanied by a non-refundable $20 entry fee. Checks must be made payable to the GFWC Plant City Woman’s Club. Entries must reside in East Hillsborough County (east of Hwy. 301) and proof of residency (driver’s license, water/electric bill) will be required at sign ups. Proof of residency must match person who is registering their child (i.e. electric bill address matches address on driver’s license). Entries are limited to the ﬁrst 50 children to enter in each of the following age groups: 1 year, 2 year, 3 year and 4 year olds. The age of your child on January 31st is the age category you will register that child in. All rules for Baby Parade can be found on the Internet at www.FLstrawberryfestival.com. Contact Katie Sparkman at (813)757-2447 if any questions.

January 28January 31,

Sunday - Wednesday

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 113

PLANT CITY

Event Calendar Saturday

February 7, 2007

The Antique Street Fair will take place in Historic Downtown Plant City beginning at 8:00 a.m. and lasting until 3:00 p.m. For more information, call 813754-3707.

February 7, 2007 is the next board meeting for the Plant City Dolphins Youth Football and Cheerleading. Head coaches for both Cheerleading and Football will be voted on. Anyone interested in coaching must contact Steve Gude or Buddy Bennett for an application prior to this meeting and must be in attendance for this meeting. Visit us at www.plantcitydolphins.com. Coaches applications are available on our website; click on either the “Football” or “Cheerleading” tabs.

Dr. Grady S. McMurtry, Biblical Scientiﬁc Creationist, will be at Plant City Church of God, Sunday at 6:00 p.m. and Monday through Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Come for an incredible series on science and creationism! For more information, please call (813) 752-4591.

February 3,

Saturday

The Bike Fest will be held from 5-9 p.m. in Plant City. Call 813754-3707 or visit www.plantcity. org for more information on the Bike Fest. Jason D. Williams, in the tradition of Jerry Lee Lewis, will be in performance at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8 p.m. For reservations call 813752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com. The Plant City Junior Woman’s Club would like to announce sign ups for the 2007 Little Miss Plant City Contest. Girls must be 8-10 years of age on or before February 1st, 2007. Sign-ups will be held at The Woman’s Club of Plant City, 1110 N. Wheeler St. on Saturday, February 3rd from 9:00 until

11:00 a.m. The application fee is $45.00. No former Little Miss Plant City Queen or Court Members are eligible to compete. Sign ups will continue at Berry Patch Kids (201 South Collins St.-Tuesday through Saturday 10:00- 5:00PM) until February 17th or until 40 contestants have registered. We encourage you to come and register on February 3rd due to the limited number of 40 contestants. For questions call Bobbie Ehrenfeld at 813-967-2597.

February 5,

Monday

The “Art of Calligraphy” presented by the Arts Guild Women’s Club will take place Monday from 7-9 p.m. at the Women’s Club of Plant City. Hazel Smith is the calligrapher. For more information, call 813-754-3707.

February 8,

Thursday

The Bruton Memorial Library has another great program in their continuing series, “Right Before Our Eyes: Florida’s Changing Landscape in Fact, Fiction, and Song.” Beginning at 7:00 p.m., Dale Crider will

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 114

present a program entitled “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” For more information, visit www.plantcitychamber.org or call 813-754-3707.

February 9,

Friday

Come to the Planteen Recreation Center for the Teen Bash Friday. Teen Bash is a monthly extravaganza that lasts from 7-11 p.m. and is for ages 12-15. For more information on the event, call the Planteen Recreation Center at 813-757-9166 or email Christine Washburn at cwashburn@plantcitygov.com. “Forever Plaid” will be presented by Plant City Entertainment at Hillsborough Community College. The event begins at 8:00 p.m. and tickets are available at Hardee Fashions, Wheeler St. For more information, call 813754-4929. The American Business Women’s Association will be holding their Bachelor Auction at the Ramada Inn. For more information, call (813) 659-2165.

February 10,

The Annual WALK FOR LIFE sponsored by the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City will take place at the Plant City Stadium Complex. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. with the walk beginning at 9:00 a.m. Call 813-759-0886 for more information on being a sponsor, walker, or helper. A Chili Cook-off will take place at McCall Park in Downtown Plant City from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sponsored by the Arts Council, the cook-off is a great place to stop by and sample some great chili and vote for your favorite. To participate, call Sandi Norman at 813-760-3679 or John McCaughey at 813-7579110. The Vogues will be in performance at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8 p.m. For reservations call 813752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com.

February 11,

Sunday

On Sunday afternoon, the First United Methodist Church will present an event at the Wesley Centre featuring Magician/Comedian Scott Huston. Adults and children alike will truly enjoy this fun-ﬁlled event. For the admission price of $10 for adults and $5 for children, you will enjoy a great dinner and the show. Dinner will be served at 1:00 p.m., followed by the show. Reservations are required. Call Michele Pruyn at 813-754-3519 to order tickets. The “Whole Hog Sausage Supper” will take place at Hope

PLANT CITY Lutheran Church, Park Road Sunday. The supper will be served from 11:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 813-754-3707. “Forever Plaid” will be presented by Plant City Entertainment at Hillsborough Community College. The event begins at 8:00 p.m. and tickets are available at Hardee Fashions, Wheeler St. For more information, call 813754-4929. Recurring Events:

Mondays: Country/Western Dance classes are offered at the Planteen Recreation Center from 7:30- 10:00 p.m. The cost is only $3 per person and is available for all ages. Beginners or advanced levels stress two-step, waltz, polka, country swing, line dances, and one-step. For more information, contact Donna Edenﬁeld at 813986-2820. Belly Dancing Classes with instructor Mary Jane Aguilar take place from 5:45-7:15 p.m. at the Planteen Recreation Center. The cost is $40 for an 8 week session or $8 Walk-In Fee. For additional information, please contact the instructor at 863682-6009. This class is designed to teach the basics at a beginner level with concentration on movements and the isolation of movements, body conditioning, dance, posture, and balance.

Tuesdays:

Escape to the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room for a relaxing night of soothing sounds by Free Time Jazz from 6-9 p.m. For reservations call 813-752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com. Taoist Tai Chi is available with instructor Joe Crossﬁeld at the

Event Calendar

Winter Visitors Center (located adjacent to the Planteen) from 7-8:30 p.m. The cost is $4 per class. Instruction is in the Taoist Tai Chi form. For more information, contact Joe at 813-6851211. Line dance lessons are available with instructor Sherri Nix from 7:00- 8:30 p.m. at the Strawberry Square, 4401 Boot Bay Rd. For more information, call 813-752-0491 or visit www.ﬂoridadanceweb.com/strawberry.

Wednesdays: “Mommy and Me” playtime is available at the Planteen Recreation Center from 10:00 am12:00 pm for ages 2 and up. For more information, call Chris at 813-757-9166. Escape to the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room for a relaxing night of soothing sounds by Free Time Jazz from 6-9 p.m. For reservations call 813-752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com. Yoga is available with instructor Gina Belli from 6-7:00 p.m. at the Planteen Recreation Center. The cost is $35 per month or $6 per class. Traditional Hatha Yoga will be taught with warmups, postures, relaxation, and non-strenuous stretches that increase ﬂexibility, tone and strengthen the muscles. Contact Gina at 813-956-0715 for more information.

Thursdays: Destiny will be in performance for Singles Night Out with special guest Ralph Allocco at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8 p.m. For reservations call 813-752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com.

January21, 2007

A room in this school (Central Grammar School, later known as Plant City High School, built in 1893) was used by the Women of the GFWC Women’s Club to begin Plant City’s ﬁrst library. The structure stood at about the spot of the current City Hall.

On January 21, the GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City will celebrate 85 years of service to our community in a gathering at the Bruton Memorial Library, beginning at 5:30 p.m. and lasting through 7:30 p.m. 93 women organized the first women’s club in Plant City on January 29 of 1922. They opened the first library in June of 1929, beginning with a collection of 317 books. Alise Sollenberger, current Women’s Club President, is thrilled with the prospect of celebrating the history of the influential organization. “Plant City loves history,” Sollenberger enthused. “And what’s interesting is that so many of the projects those first women did, we’re still doing!”

The Toastmasters Club will be meeting at 7:30 a.m. at the Chamber of Commerce. Call 813-754-3707 or visit www. plantcity.org for more information.

Fridays: Destiny will be in performance at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8 p.m. For reservations call 813-752-3141 or visit the website at www. RamadaPlantation.com. Ralph Allocco and Second Wind will be in performance at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8 p.m. For reservations call 813-752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com.

Saturdays: The Rat Pack Too and Destiny will be in performance at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8 p.m. For reservations call 813-752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com. Yoga is available with instructor Gina Belli from 9-10 a.m. at the Winter Visitor’s Center (adjacent to the Planteen Recreation Center.) The cost is $35 per month or $6 per class. Traditional Hatha Yoga will be taught with warmups, postures, relaxation, and non-strenuous stretches that increase ﬂexibility, tone and strengthen the muscles. Contact Gina at 813-956-0715 for more information.

You can email events to ktoney@ﬂoydpublications.com PLEASE PUT “PLANT CITY EVENTS” IN THE SUBJECT LINE

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 115

��

GETTING MARRIED? WON AN AWARD? DELIVERED? GOT A PROMOTION?

��

Our Coupons and Menu are NOW On-Line at:

www.Munchiespizzas.com

��

Fresh Dough Daily Homemade Sauce Always the Freshest, Finest Ingredients

��

Call 813-707-8783 Ext 24 To Share Your Good News

MAGAZINE

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 116

2006 READERS CHOICE

AWARDS HOSTED BY JULES BURT 1.18.07

2006 FOCUS

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 117

��

WE’RE NOT LIKE THE OTHER SPORTS BARS.

��

Now Serving Full Seafood Menu Specials Every Weekend $12.99 (Filet, NY Strip or Ribeye)

��

or Itʼs FREE

��

$5.49 Delivered in 15 Minutes

��

LUNCH SPECIAL

��

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ��

�� HOME COOKED MEALS ALWAYS PREPARED FRESH Mon - Thurs: 6am - 8pm Fri - Sat: 6am - 9pm • Sun: 7am - 2pm

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

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

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 118

��

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • January 15, 2007 - February 15, 2007 • PG 119