FOCUS PC 06-03 April 2007 by Floyd Publications

LOCAL • REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS • SPORTS • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT VOLUME 6 NUMBER 3 • MARCH 15, 2007 - APRIL 15, 2007

At 200+ Locations In Plant City

PLANT CITY EDITION

MARY ALICE HENDRICKS

Pregnancy Care Center Director

Gracie Garner with granddaughter

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 2

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 3

MARCH 15 - APRIL 15, 2007

feature

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There are many incredible women who plant themselves deep in communities all over the world, but we think some of the best are right here in Plant City! In honor of National Women’s History Month, we tell you about the Woman’s Club, Junior Woman’s Club and the Juniorettes. If you’ve ever been a part of, know someone who has been or is a part of, or are interested in joining one of these clubs, don’t miss this incredible Feature!

dining & entertainment

sports

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While we all are great supporters of all the local teams here in Plant City, it’s always exciting when some outof-towners come in to use the facilities our Parks and Recreation Department has worked so hard to create and maintain. We tell you about the action a few college baseball teams brought to Mike Sansone Park. If you read quickly, you’ll still have time to get out and take in a few games!

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The Red Rose Dining Room has done it again! No matter the evening or occasion, they always have top-notch entertainment, and we popped in to visit on an evening with Second Wind, Ralph Allocco’s newest music venture. An incredible show for anyone, we give you all the information on how you can enjoy their next performance.

112 ...........Dining Review 114 ...............Just for Fun 116 ...........Entertainment NowCare Walk In Clinic 118 ............ Dining Guide 122-124 ...Event Calendar

business proﬁle

Photo by KRISTEN TONEY

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Along with our coverage of Strawberry Festival events, we say so long to one of Plant City’s active residents, meet the new Miss Heart of Plant City and her court, and find out how a local eatery was saved from going out of business!

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

spotlight

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Each day in our community brings a different situation for Mary Alice Hendricks, Executive Director of the Pregnancy Care Center. Hendricks spends her days working with the center staff members as they assist clients in their time

of need. Some days are better than others, but they spend every moment trying to make a positive impression with their clients. We feature her in honor of National Women’s History Month, and we’re sure many ladies in the future will look back on their history with gratefulness for her guidance.

Easter Church Listing

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We bring you a brand new section especially for this month called the Easter Worship Guide; your source for finding the perfect place to take your family on the morning of April 8 to celebrate this special holiday. If you are looking for something specific, you’ll definitely be able to get an idea of where you and yours will enjoy a peaceful morning.

ON THE COVER FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 4

Pregnancy Care Center Director Mary Alice Hendricks and her granddaughter, Gracie Garner

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 STAFF WRITERS Brian West, Debbie Bowers, Joe Bowles, Sherry Baldwin, Holly Mallalieu, Pat Hearn, 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.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 5

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letter FROM THE EDITOR

“When strangers start acting like neighbors…communities are reinvigorated.” Ralph Nader On one of the most beautiful days Plant City has seen this year, I had the opportunity to ride on the Focus Magazine float in the Strawberry Festival Parade. As we waited in line for the procession to begin, I admired the floats passing, waved back to the little ones who were already “gettin’ their wave on”, and sang along as the song “My Town” exploded from our speakers. Time moved on and so did the parade, but in the midst of tossing beads and greeting familiar faces, I observed a scene that made me very proud to be a part of Plant City. Two little girls, quite obviously from different families, were standing by each other, and it was evident a competition for beads was in high gear! They pushed and shoved at each other in order to catch the most plastic pearls, all scowls in the process. They both looked up at the same time to see an incredible strand of strawberry beads come flying through the air, directly aimed for…both of them. They both caught it. And they both held on to it and glared at each other, clearly angry at the turn of events. The bigger girl produced a swift yank and stole the beads away. The eyes of the smaller girl grew large and watery; she turned away and sat down on the curb in devastation. The elder seemed quite pleased with herself for a moment, until she turned to look at the little heap of disappointment planted on the side of the parade path. Glancing down at the beautiful berries on a string, she slowly took them off, walked over to the smaller girl and gently placed the beads around her neck. The look on the face of the youngest was pure shock and delight, as she accepted the gift offered by the older child. It all happened so quickly, however, the impression it made on me is a lasting one. Here was a perfect example of what community, what Plant City, is all about. It’s about being a good neighbor. It’s about smiling at the grocery store cashier. It’s about holding the door for an elderly woman. It’s about letting someone else have the parking spot. These and more are all things I love about Plant City; things people will travel for miles to experience! Something else people will travel for miles for is the Strawberry Festival! Check out our Local section this month for coverage of the events; from the tiny ones in the Baby Contests to the biggest creatures in the Dairy Shows. We also share a story with you about a partnership between the Plant City Fire Department and Brewington’s Towing Service, and the example of community they present for the rest of us to follow. As we look ahead we realize it’s time to plan for Easter Egg Hunts, the family’s Sunday attire and the wonderful meals sure to follow. We bring you a brand new section especially for this month called the Easter Worship Guide; your source for finding the perfect place to take your family on the morning of April 8 to celebrate this special holiday. Our Spotlight Interview this month is with Mary Alice Hendricks, a lady who knows the place a young woman in crisis can obtain help for her future. Our Feature tells the story of three incredible organizations for women in our community: The Woman’s Club, the Junior Woman’s Club and the Juniorettes. All of these articles are in honor of March being National Women’s History month! We appreciate each one of the ladies who have made Plant City what it is today! As you finish up the month of March and start in on your April, remember what it means to be a part of Plant City. Reflect on how blessed you are to live in a place such as this, and make it a point to do something to “share your beads” with others. Not a day goes by when I don’t send up a prayer of thankfulness for the opportunities Plant City and those who reside here have given me, for the peace I can enjoy in a smaller community, and for everyone who makes our city the wonderful way it is. This truly is my town. With You In Mind,

Kristen Toney Editorial Director

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udrey DeDon has been selected to represent Plant City High School in the annual Congressional Classroom program put on by Congressman Adam Putnam and sponsored by The Young Patriots Foundation. She will be visiting Washington D.C. March 12-16 along with 19 other teens in Putnam’s district. She has been given the amazing opportunity to experience D.C. behind the scenes and participate in a “mock Congress.” Congratulations, Audrey! Focus Magazine would like to welcome Premier Travel to Plant City! Congratulations to the Plant City Recreation Department’s Optimist Basketball team, the Grizzlies, who

are ofﬁcially undefeated! They won their championship on Febru-

of the

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ary 26, beating their competition 48-32 and obtaining ﬁrst place in the 8-10 year old category.

stuff to the raucous opening song at the beginning of the auction and

On March 28, the new AmSouth Bank will open on Jim Redman Parkway, just South of Wal-Mart and Lowe’s. This is the last AmSouth to open nationwide, as Regions Bank has now taken over ownership of the chain. Welcome home to some of our local Marines who have been in Iraq: Ben Penrose, Joel Snively, David Brown and John Simpkins. We greatly appreciate your service to our country! Congratulations to Focus Magazine’s very own Sophia Dedon, who is now Sophia Hyde! She married Brandon Hyde on March 10. From everyone at Focus, Sophia, we wish you and Brandon all the best!

later helped to raise about $8000 towards a scholarship fund established for local young women of promise. Many thanks to all who participated in this great community event! The Junior Woman’s Club would

It was deﬁnitely “Raining Men” at the fourth annual “Be My Valentine” Bachelor Auction sponsored by the Plant City Charter Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association this year. An array of 12 handsome men strutted their

Focus Magazine wants to know what is going on in YOUR life. People have exciting things happen to them every day 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 couple box locations are at Grandpa Johnson’s and Natural Creations. 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. like to thank Outback Steakhouse for the donation of 100 lunches on February 20 to beneﬁt the shoe project. In 2006 the project ﬁt close to 800 Plant City students, and is expected to be even bigger this year!

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 7

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Story by Ken Lawrence Photos by Ken Lawrence and courtesy of Dr. and Mrs. Stein

Farewell to the Deliveryman LOCAL OB/GYN DOCTOR RETIRING

boarded a Russian icebreaker that sailed very close to the South Pole. They even camped out overnight on an ice ﬂow, with only sleeping bags. It even rained on them throughout the night. (They’ll have a roof over their heads in Vermont.)

aving brought more than 5,000 babies into this world in Plant City and Brandon, Dr. Jerry Stein has called it a day. The prominent OB/GYN (Obstetrics and Gynecology) doctor, originally from the Washington, DC area, came to Plant City in 1980 and quickly made his mark in the medical profession locally. He named the practice appropriately, “Women’s Care”. In 1989, Dr. Stein added Dr. Keith Whitehead to his practice, followed by Drs. Maruja Fernandez and Greg Den Haase over the past years. The ofﬁce has been located on Southern Oak Drive. Other ofﬁces were set up in Brandon on Parsons Avenue and in Lithia. Of the 5,000 plus babies, Dr. Stein says each birth “was special in its own way.” He went on to tell FOCUS that “I will always cherish those moments and the friendships I have had with my patients over the years.”

Patty and Dr. Jerry Stein with their two dachshunds

“Besides, when I started delivering the babies of patients whom I had delivered, I knew I had to be getting too old for this business,” he quipped. In preparation for living about

half a year in snowsuit conditions, Jerry and Patty recently took a trip to acclimate themselves to frigid weather. They went to, of all places, Antarctica, where it was actually summer down there. They ﬂew to southern Argentina and

Dr. Stein recently sold his ﬁnancial interest in “Women’s Care” to his other associates and is moving from the warmth of Florida to the sometimes downright frigid climate of Vermont, a stone’s throw from even colder Canada. He and his lovely wife Patty are having a home (chalet, as northerners call them) built on the side of a mountain. He does not plan to practice medicine any longer. “There are just not enough ski days in Florida,” he joked, when questioned about his retirement and move to a much colder area. The Steins will have plenty of ski days in Vermont, with the slopes sometimes opening in November and skiing lasting into May. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 8

The ﬁnal connection to Plant City for the Steins is their home in Walden Lake, and what a home it is! Dr. Stein purchased the home site in 1981, paying $41,000 for the vacant lot, the only one with an unobstructed view of Walden Lake. At the time, many locals said he paid “too much” for the property. The 3,861 square foot Walden Lake home, off North Golfview Drive, is, to say the least, unique, having been designed by renowned Plant City architect Bill Wilrycx to “take full advantage of the site’s unparalleled natural setting.” All rooms face Walden Lake with a spectacular view at any time, especially at sunset, which is directly across the lake from the estate. The home was expanded and remodeled in 2003, making it even more spectacular. At a price tag of $1,479,000, it’s the highest amount ever placed on a home in Plant City. Dr. and Mrs. Stein are selling their “Dream Home” with mixed emotions. They regret leaving Plant City, but are looking forward to a more rustic lifestyle in Vermont. Plant City wishes them “God speed” and many thanks to the Steins for Jerry’s ﬁne treatment of many local women and babies and to Patty for her untiring work on behalf of “Meals on Wheels.”

Dr. Jerry Stein and his wife, Patty, in Antarctica.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 9

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SEND COMMENTS TO K TONEY@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM Story By Bruce Rodwell

Chamber of Commerce The 2007 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL is now history. Anyone that was fortunate enough to attend learned that it was “More Than Just Shortcake”. That was the theme this year. And more than shortcake it was. Great entertainment, wonderful showcase acts, great exhibits and demonstrations. I am sure we will all be looking forward to next year’s Festival. That will take place February 28 through March 9, 2008. Wonder what they will come up with for a theme? Whatever it is, you won’t want to miss this great Plant City tradition. ★★★★★★★★★★ Last month I wrote in this column about the GFWC-WOMAN’S CLUB OF PLANT CITY. This great group of women have a wonderful event planned for Friday, March 23rd. On this date, they are hosting a fundraiser at the brand new Carrabba’s. Starting at 11:30 AM there will be informal modeling of Weekender clothing, a display of Premier jewelry, good food, and great door prizes. The menu consists of Chicken Marsala, a side dish of pasta, salad, beverage and dessert. All this for a cost of only $20.00. Here’s the wonderful part….the proceeds from this event will go to the GFWC scholarship program for Florida kids identiﬁed with cancer and will be attending college or a technical school in Florida. What a great idea. These women are to be congratulated for this worthwhile effort. Tickets may be obtained from Alise Sollenberger, President, by calling her at 813-6593397. There will be no tickets sold at the door.

Plant City was connected by rail to Sanford and Tampa on December 10, 1883. Union Station was completed in 1909 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Station is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is free. Stop in and take a look at a real railroad station from a bygone era. Group tours are available by contacting the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at 813-7543707. ★★★★★★★★★★ Every Wednesday MOMMY & ME PLAYTIME is presented at the Plant City Planteen Recreation Center from 10 AM to Noon. This is for children ages 2 and up. Call Chris at the Center 813-757-9166 for further information. The CITY OF PLANT CITY RECREATION & PARKS DEPARTMENT hosts numerous events and activities for various age groups through the entire year. For more information you can call 659-4255 or visit www.plantcitygov.com/rec. From this website, you may also contact any PCRPD staff member by clicking on “Contact the Recreation & Parks Department.” ★★★★★★★★★★ On Sunday, April 1st the FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF PLANT CITY will present an Easter concert entitled “For Such a One As This.” Time of the concert is 7 PM. If you would like additional information, you can contact Michelle Pruyn at 813-754-3519. ★★★★★★★★★★

★★★★★★★★★★ Want to take a step back in history? A visit to historic Union Station, 102 North Palmer Street, Plant City will afford you that experience.

On April 7th the 18th ANNUAL CITY WIDE EASTER EGG HUNT will be held at Otis Andrews complex off Cherry Street and adjacent to Hillsborough Community College. The egg hunt gets underway at 9:30

AM. Additional information can be obtained by contacting Steve Rossiter at 813-659-4255. ★★★★★★★★★★

Mark your calendars for April 14th. That’s the day our Plant City YMCA will hold activities for Healthy Kids Day. YMCA Healthy Kids Day is a free, fun-filled day of activities designed to promote healthy kids and families in spirit, mind and body. This community based event celebrates making fitness fun, and introduces kids to an array of YMCA programs that teach healthy behaviors and healthy ways to play. This is an essential lesson in learning how to take care of themselves throughout their lifetimes. Our Plant City YMCA offers Family Fitness Hours on Wednesday and Friday from 6 to 9:00 PM and on Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4:00 PM. This is a family involvement time. Children 10 and up can join parents on the fitness floor. Participants will have access to the treadmills and recumbent bikes. ★★★★★★★★★★ Say hello to some of our newest members: GREAT CLIPS OF PLANT CITY… Located on James L. Redman Parkway in the new City Crossings Shopping Center. Great Clips is one of the nation’s largest franchisers in the $50 billion dollar hair care industry. Established in 1982, Great Clips perfected a system for delivering competitively priced, high quality haircuts and perms to men, women and children. The company began franchising in 1983, and today, more than 2,500 Great Clips operate across the U.S. and Canada.

tian based homecare agency located in Plant City and serving Pasco, Polk & Hillsborough counties. Owned and operated by Heather Warnick, a Certiﬁed Senior Advisor, Companion Services is an active member of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and specializes in providing quality in-home care to seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s or Dementia. Caregivers are available on an hourly and live-in basis and homecare services include an array of other beneﬁcial senior programs. You can call Heather at 813-659-1919. PREMIERE TRAVEL OF PLANT CITY…Located in the Oaks Shopping Center on the corner of Alexander Street and Mendonsa Road, Premiere is ready to become your partner in travel. Their specialty is Cruise Vacations, but they will help you with all your travel and vacation needs. Debbie Gillespie is the owner and she offers friendly, personalized service and will plan your special vacation as carefully as if she were planning her own. You can call Debbie at 813-719-3900. FROM START TO FURNISHED… Located in the Kash N’ Karry (soon to be Sweet Bay) plaza on West Alexander Street is serving our community by being the low price leader in home furnishings. If you are looking for one item or a house full on any budget, this is the place for you. Their focus is manufacturer’s closeouts, and quality pre-owned furniture as well as a large selection of special order items. In addition, they will take pre-owned furniture in on trades or purchase, thereby creating an always changing showroom. Stop in and say hello to Holly and Rodney Altamore.

COMPANION SERVICES OF CENTRAL FLORIDA…This is a Chris-

SUPPORT OUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS. BUY THEIR PRODUCTS AND USE THEIR SERVICES. IT JUST MAKES SENSE! FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 10

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Story and Photos by Kristen Toney

The Littlest Winners

THE 2007 BABY PARADE HONORS TINY TOTS Most Beautiful: 1st- Brenna Mae Sturgis 2nd- PH’Saria Bower 3rd- Summer Leighann Walker Best Costume: 1st- Regan Esler 2nd- Giselle Gutierrez 3rd- Ashton Roberts Most Personality: 1st- Arielle Chappell 2nd- Breanna Erin May 3rd- Bailee Roberts Most Beautiful Float: 1st- Danian Rodriguez 2nd- Judson Smith 3rd- Lilly B. Martinez Most Original Float: 1st- Emily G. Linton 2nd- Quinton Kahelin 3rd- Kyleigh Glenn

(L to R Back) MacKenzie Clark, Allie Watkins, Summer Pippin, Kyndle Hampton and Tara Parker, 2007 Strawberry Festival Court. (L to R Front) 2007 Baby Parade King Nathan Hardwick, Queen Gracie Gainer, Court Madison Washom, Kendall Martin and Tori Alyssa Lumley.

Each year, Plant City parents muster up all their creativity and decorate a float or their child in honor of the Strawberry Festival’s Baby Parade. This year was no exception. The little ones were in rare form; from the tiniest demanding to pull her own float, to the little cowboy tipping his hat to the crowd, to the princess blowing kisses to the Strawberry Queen and her court. As friends and family members cheered from the grandstands, the kids made their entrance and strutted their stuff! There were not enough trophies to cover all the cuteness, however, each participant received a ribbon, with the final winners accepting the biggest ribbons and trophies. Congratulations to all our participants! ONE YEAR OLD WINNERS Most Handsome: 1st- Jayden Aijah Brown 2nd- Tegan Coleman Christie 3rd- Brayden Chase Morgan

Most Beautiful: 1st- Anneliese Rivera 2nd- Savannah Rice 3rd- Saige Starford Healthiest: 1st- Skyler Brooke Grooms 2nd- Logan Austin Lagrone 3rd- Olvia Little Best Costume: 1st- Garrett Reinhold 2nd- Jonas Franklin 3rd- Colby Brewington Most Personality: 1st- Justin Layton 2nd- Mary Theresa Vaughn 3rd- Bailey Brock Most Beautiful Float: 1st- Regan Perkins 2nd- Alyssa Williams 3rd- Lilly Hall Most Original Float: 1st- Aiden Grooms 2nd- Taylor Bell 3rd- Aiden Rennick TWO YEAR OLD WINNERS

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 12

Most Handsome: 1st- Gerald Wayne Williams 2nd- Tryston Barber 3rd- Philip Simmons Healthiest: 1st- Kassandra Martinez 2nd- Hannah Simmons 3rd- Emma Showalter

Breanna Erin May took home second place for most personality in the 2-year-olds. Breanna is the daughter of Brian and Denise May.

THREE YEAR OLD WINNERS Most Handsome: 1st- Owen Westover 2nd- Hayden Micheal Patrick 3rd- Quentin Silas Healthiest: 1st- Riley Buttorff 2nd- McKinley Baker 3rd- Kalissa Riordan Most Beautiful: 1st- Tori Wegner 2nd- Savannah Newberry

L to R 2007 Baby Parade Queen Gracie Gainer, 2006 Baby Parade Queen Hannah Moisa and 2007 Strawberry Festival Queen Summer Pippin.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 Most Original Float: 1st- Brendan Rollyson 2nd- Haley Nicole Courtney 3rd- Aiden Duncan Four Year Old Winners Most Handsome:

Most Beautiful: 1st- Gracie Gainer 2nd- Kristina Cannoles 3rd- Rebecca Field Best Costume: 1st- Madison Washom 2nd- Megan Dawn Flowers

Brenna Mae Sturgis, daughter of Racquel and Thomas Sturgis, took home the ﬁrst place prize for most beautiful in the 2-year-old group.

3rd- Aurora Ordaz Best Costume: 1st- Mary-Nanette Boyce 2nd- Jacie Crabb 3rd- Carson Simpson Most Personality: 1st- Gracie Gillespie 2nd- Shelby Allen 3rd- Avery Jones Most Beautiful Float: 1st- Jaden Deagan 2nd- Suzanna Mazariegos 3rd- Elijah Johnson

Second place winner for most handsome boy at 4 years old is Coley Riley, son of William and Heather Riley.

L to R 2007 Strawberry Festival Queen Summer Pippin, 2007 Baby Parade King Nathan Hardwick and 2006 Baby Parade King Bradley Moisa.

1st- Nathan Hardwick 2nd- Coley Riley 3rd- Kirkland Jacob Stutler Healthiest: 1st- Tori Alyssa Lumley 2nd- Sydney LeighAnn Stine 3rd- Brooklen Paydge Mosley

Little Judson Smith placed second in the most beautiful ﬂoat category for the 2-year-olds. Judson is the son of Thomas and Kelli Smith.

3rd- Dana Franklin Most Personality: 1st- Kendall Martin 2nd- Chase Campbell 3rd- Gabrielle Waite Most Beautiful Float: 1st- Emily Yvette Segovia

Emily Linton, daughter of Russell and Jennifer Linton, won ﬁrst place for most original ﬂoat in the 2-year-old category.

2nd- Alexandra Harrell 3rd- Mary Catherine Michelle Stephens Most Original Float: 1st- Cole Cothren 2nd- Tre’ Ragan 3rd- Madison Reinhold BABY PARADE COURT King: Nathan Hardwick Queen: Gracie Gainer Court: Tori Alyssa Lumley, Madison Washom, Kendall Martin

4-year-old Madison Washom, daughter of Tammy and Mike Washom, was voted best costume.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 13

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 14

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Story and Photo by Holly Mallalieu

Nine Years and Counting!

THE HUFFS LOOK FORWARD TO THE FESTIVAL DURING THEIR STAYS IN PLANT CITY

ou may not think so, but it can actually be hard to ﬁnd someone who lives in Plant City at our Florida Strawberry Festival. Of course, it’s a yearly tradition among most in our town, but with everything it offers, the festival brings in people from all around the state, plus. It was good to ﬁnd Don and Barbara Huff, a couple who has been living in Plant City for the past nine years now. Even with their home in Dayton, Ohio that they reside in May through September, the two have always spent the other six months of the year right here. Visiting the Strawberry Festival is certainly something that has become a tradition for the Huffs. Not only have they been to every one since they moved to Plant City, but their average number of times going is three per year. Of their favorite things to do, surveying the elaborately decorated and detailed cakes in the Expo Building is at the top. And, of course, everyone who comes has that certain favorite food in mind that they can’t leave without having; for Don and Barbara, the funnel cakes, Texas tenderloin sandwiches and,

which goes without saying, strawberry shortcakes are tastes that a day at the festival would not be complete without. Last year, the Huffs performed with the Strawberry Square, a square dancing community in Plant City located on Boot Bay Road. Square dancing is something that Don, who is actually the community chairman for all of the dances, has been doing for 40 years, and Barbara for 35. In the community, there are dances during the week, and people come to learn how to square dance as well as enjoy the atmosphere. We’re so glad Don and Barbara are part of Plant City!

Barbara and Don Huff

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Story and Photos by Holly Mallalieu

Strawberry Sock-Hop Fundraiser A TASTE OF OLD PLANT CITY

Center decided to put together a committee dedicated to raising money in order to turn the once First Baptist building into a community center for all of Plant City to use. They have sponsored many fundraisers this year, but their most recent venture was held February 24th-a Strawberry Sock-Hop!

Joyce and Don Hutto

s you probably already know, First Baptist Church of Plant City is no longer using one of their former facilities; now a downtown landmark. And although the late building still remains, it’s shown many signs of its lack of use. That’s why members of the Cornerstone

On the recreational grounds of Carl and Geri Brownlee, the event was a very unique idea planned by the committee members for months in advance. The purpose of the evening was to bring back memories of old downtown Plant City…through food! Anyone who grew up here can surely remember all of their favorite hangouts as a teenager. The Strawberry Drive-In, Barwick’s Drugstore, White’s Pharmacy,

Kirby’s Bakery, and Cone’s Dairy? All of these memorable places were represented at the Strawberry SockHop, along with what they were each famous for, food-wise. All of it was the original and delicious-from the Cherry Smashes and strawberry shortcakes, to the Chinese-Chews and homemade brownies. There was also a booth set up in honor of Blind Charlie. Simmons Farm stemmed and donated all of the strawberries for the night, and the Photo Archives blew up and donated photographs of the old buildings at each

booth. Some of the best 50’s and 60’s music perfected the evening, and there was even dancing in retro clothes. The night wouldn’t have been possible without people such as Violete Massey, Cher Salvator, Jim Pollard, Frieda and Paul Causey, Jeannie Bert, Matt Krell, and so many others who helped in prepar-

From l to r, Norma Harrell, Jenni Barwick, Patti Brownlee, Barbara Barwick, and Tommi Sue Plairre. All are children of the Barwick family, who once owned Barwick’s Drugstore in downtown Plant City

2005 Finalist SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Brandon Chamber

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 15

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Story by Pat Hearn Photos courtesy of Billy Friend

Dairy Duel

THIS YEAR’S DAIRY SHOWMANSHIP COMPETITION TECO tent to show off their prized bovines, although the judging wasn’t solely on the cows, but also on the exhibitors themselves. The participants showed up early at the festival to do some last minute preparation for showing their cows. The cows themselves were judged on their body type, Senior class and Grand Champion winner, Joanna Mason. height, weight and mammaries. The ideal features varied from ell it’s that time of year again breed to breed, and the exhibitors and the Strawberry Festival has each faced different criteria. They rolled into town. People from all over were judged on how well they had the country have poured into the festaken care of their cow, how they tival to get their ﬁll of fair-fried food handled the animal and how they and stomach-turning rides. Aside interacted with the judge. The comfrom the entertainment, many people petitors were split into three classes: attend the festival to show off their junior, intermediate and senior. cattle. On Saturday, March 3, FFA members and cow enthusiasts from The competition began with the juthe ages of 8 to 16 showed up at the

�� Greg Davis

Mallory Gay

nior class. The cows were led into the arena and the showing began. During this time the judge carefully inspected each cow and its handler. After making their way around the arena a few times, the youth and their cows were lined up in an order determined by the judge, who then made his way up and down the line for the question and answer period. When the judge had completed his inquiries, he sent the group out of the arena and the winner was announced. The intermediate and senior classes followed in the same fashion. I had the opportunity to talk to seasoned champion Kayla Burlingame, who just so happened to win ﬁrst place in the intermediate class. When I asked her about competing next year she replied, “I’m gonna work harder.” With that determination she’ll surely do well.

Intermediate class winner, Kayla Burlingame.

Junior class winner, Keegan Lee.

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Story and Photo by Heather Davis

Peggy Courson

LEADING A LIFE SURROUNDED BY ART

eggy Courson is an artist’s artist. For the past 20 years she has dedicated herself to and has pursued a life of art. Courson’s love of art began as a young child, but as many of us have experienced, she put art on a back burner as she raised a family. Before the last of her children left home, she began a series of art classes at USF in Tampa. After relocating to Blowing Rock, North Carolina, Courson continued with her art education at Caldwell Community College. Along with her husband, who is also an accomplished artist, Courson also participated in art classes at Arrowmont in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. In 2004 the Coursons returned to Plant City and have since been an active part of the art community. As a member and Recording Secretary of the East Hillsborough Art Guild, Courson has contributed in many ways to our community as an accomplished artist. For a third year she has entered her art in the Strawberry Festival’s Art Competition. In addition to placing her art, she helps

receive and hang other artist’s work for the competition as well as assist artists in showing their work to the public during the duration of the Festival. Courson’s love for art and its many mediums knows no bounds as she has pursued all types of art from oils, watercolors and acrylics, to drawing, sketching and charcoal. Much of her art reflects a deep appreciation for nature as depicted through landscapes and scenery. More specifically, Courson has found inspiration in the natural beauty found in the North Carolina mountains. In her career as an artist, Courson’s accomplishments have included exhibits at the Lees McCrea College in Banner Elk, North Carolina, as well as an exhibit in the library located in the Appalachian State University. She has also displayed her work locally in a Plant City’s doctor’s office. Plant City is truly blessed to have such a talented and dedicated artist as Courson.

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109 W. REYNOLDS PLANT CITY, FL 33563

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Peggy Courson with one of her paintings.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 17

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Story by Kristen Toney Photos from Floyd Publications Archives

Send in Your Nominations NOW!

TIME TO NOMINATE SOMEONE FOR THE “FOCUS ON YOU” MAKEOVER

t’s that time of year once more: Focus on You Makeover time! If you know someone, male or female, who is in need of a makeover, we want to make it happen! Send a 300 word nomination in for them via mail, e-mail or fax. All nominations must be received by midnight May

17. Four winners will be chosen and notiﬁed on May 18.

of dining and entertainment provided by the Red Rose Dining Room.

The day begins with a breakfast and then the winners will be whisked away to pick out a brand new outﬁt. Then they will be taken for a relaxing massage. After the massage, the staff of Focus will sit down for lunch with the winners and present each of them with a month’s membership to a ﬁtness center.

Remember, tell us why your nominated person deserves this makeover and mail it to FOCUS Magazine, “FOCUS ON YOU” Makeover, 101 E. J Arden Mays Blvd, Plant City, FL 33563. You may also send your entries by e-mail to KToney@Floydpublications.com. Place “FOCUS ON YOU” Makeover in the subject line and send your entry in the body of the e-mail (no attachments, please). Be SURE to include name, address, home phone number and work phone number, and e-mail address, if you have one. You may also fax a nomination to 813-764-0990, Attn: Kristen.

The fun jump starts again while the winners ﬁnish out the day with a facial, manicure, pedicure and haircut. The girls will also have their makeup done.

Amy Tummel, one of last year’s winners

Finally, the day comes to a close when a limo comes to pick up the ladies and their sweethearts to get their pictures taken and enjoy an evening

Entries must be received by midnight on May 17!

Letters and entries may be published in FOCUS Magazine and photographs will be taken throughout the “FOCUS ON YOU” makeover day and published in the following month’s edition. ENTER NOW!

Linda Monroe, one of last year’s winners

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 18

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 19

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Story and Photos by Kristen Toney

A Perfect Example

OF WHAT COMMUNITY IS ALL ABOUT

Plant City Fire Department assesses the situation

If you personally haven’t been through an accident involving a semi truck, chances are you know someone who has, or you have seen the results of such a wreck first-hand. It’s a dangerous situation where many hands are needed to produce life-saving results. When an accident like this occurs, the first logical action is to call 911. Perhaps an ambulance or a fire

truck will arrive. However, a wreck involving a car pinned under a semi truck in one manner or another needs a little special assistance. Sometimes the greatest partnerships begin under extenuating circumstances; such as the one between the Plant City Fire Department and Brewington’s Towing Service. David Brewington is the owner of the towing company, which has been

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 20

a familiar name in Plant City and the surrounding area for years. “We do this as often as the ﬁre department needs us to,” he commented of the scene staged on their property, involving a minivan “trapped” under a semi truck. “We have the equipment they need to stabilize the situation. It’s not as simple as pulling the car out from under the semi. You have to stabilize the semi as well, so no additional damage occurs during the rescue process.” “It is very rare for an accident of this kind to happen,” commented Barry Pettingill of the Fire Department. “But it really does pay to be prepared; we want to be prepared for the people of Plant City, and Brewington’s has been instrumental in helping us with these drills.”

With the partnership of the Plant City Fire Department and Brewington’s Towing Service, the semi truck was stabilized, the mock passengers were rescued and the minivan was removed from underneath the truck, all in well under an hour. Thanks to PCFD and Brewington’s, for taking the time to work together in order to ensure even more safety for the people of Plant City.

Brewingtons and PCFD partner for the community

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Step Out Of The Box FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 21

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Story and Photos by Pat Hearn

Death by Chocolate...and Chili?

THE 17TH ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF MEETS THE 3RD ANNUAL CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL Plant City Entertainment member. After paying the three dollar fee the public could begin sampling from the twelve tables packed with delectable sweet treats. There were cakes, brownies, cookies and many other unique entries, like the classic chocolate-dipped strawberries.

All of the day’s champs

he spicy tang of chili and the sweet, smooth taste of chocolate seem like an unusual mix on the palate. However, on Saturday, February 11, the 17th Annual Chili Cook-Off and the 3rd Annual Chocolate Festival were held down at McCall Park, just across the street from one another, with an attendance of about 200 people. The Chili Cook-Off was held at the Train Depot, and you could not have asked for a more beautiful day. The early morning chill made for perfect chili weather. The contestants consisted of returning champions, as well as new contenders, each bringing their own unique recipes for chili. Each contestant also had their own theme for decorating their table, which

ranged from jungle and Tex-Mex to Western and Support the Troops. The chili was judged in four categories: mild, novelty, people’s choice, and for the more bold at heart, spicy. The public was required to pay a ﬁve dollar fee to participate in the taste testing. The proceeds went to a scholarship for Plant City and Durant High School seniors, sponsored by the Plant City Arts Council. The event raised approximately $2000 in scholarships.

particularly high school students. I cannot wait for next year’s chili cook-off; perhaps I will brave the spicy recipe.

The entries were judged accordingly in cake, cookie/brownie, candy/novelty, and people’s choice categories. The irresistible lure of sweets managed to raise $750 in scholarships. All in all, that Saturday proved to be a good day, not just to ﬁll ourselves with delicious chili and satisfy our sweet tooth, but to give back to the community as well,

Chili with hush puppies anyone?

Meanwhile, across the street, Plant City Entertainment was hosting its own fund-raiser. The fundraiser was held for the Jim Rogers Scholarship, created in honor of the esteemed educator and former The Champions of Chocolate.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 22

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Story and Photo by Emily Allen

Plant City Makes Waves

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HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY COMMISSIONERS RECOGNIZE PLANT CITY

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The Plant City Proclamation was declared by Commissioner Al Higginbotham (front).

lant City, in relation to Tampa, is a small town, but its agriculture and Strawberry Festival revenue make quite a dent in the economics concerning Hillsborough County.

On February 21, County Commissioner Al Higginbotham, resident of Plant City, ofﬁcially recognized PC’s impact on Hillsborough County with a special Strawberry Festival Proclamation during the Hillsborough Board of County Commissioners meeting. Plant City had quite a presence in the boardroom with the Strawberry Queen, Summer Pippin, complete with her crown and court. Others in attendance included Johnny Dean Page, President of the Board of Directors of the Florida Strawberry Festival, Rick Lott, Vice Mayor of Plant City, Mike Sparkman and Al Berry of the Strawberry Festival Board of Directors, and PC Chamber of Commerce President Marion Smith. Ofﬁcially recognizing the 2007 Florida Strawberry Festival for the dates of March 1-11, this proclamation went beyond the usual formality. Plant City was also recognized as a viable economic force in Hillsborough County and promoter of excellence and unity in the community. “Plant City is known as the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World and

produces three-fourths of the nation’s mid-winter strawberries with an annual value of nearly $400 million,” said Higginbotham. “The Strawberry Festival is one of the top 100 events in the nation…[and] celebrates the bountiful harvest of strawberries and the ethnic traditions of Plant City,” he said. From beauty and grace to being recognized as an important player in the future of the county, the Proclamation caused Plant City residents in attendance to feel proud of their heritage. “I think it’s always great when Plant City gets recognized for our agricultural community, and today’s recognition makes me proud of our agricultural heritage,” ViceMayor Rick Lott said. “When people hear ‘strawberries,’ they always think of Plant City,” said Lott. Festival board member Al Berry agrees. “It’s great that the County Commissioners recognized the importance of Plant City. It plays a very important role in the economy and impacts all of Hillsborough County,” he said. Commissioner Jim Norman was pleased by the positive image the Strawberry Queen and her court presented, and was anxious to get another photo with “all those pretty girls.” He spoke for all of his fellow board members when he said, “We think very highly of Plant City.”

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PROUDLY SERVING PLANT CITY SINCE 1988

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Diapers-Beauty in the Eyes of the Beholder! STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL FEATURES BABY CONTEST

The second contest was blessed with the facial features of the prettiest, handsome, biggest eyes, baldest heads, chubbiest cheeks, most hair, and look alike twins. This was a real crowd pleaser with cheers coming from family and friends as the babies captivated the audience.

Babies…start your engines!

here is nothing more beautiful than a baby. This was certainly the case as 143 babies were entered in the 2007 Strawberry Festival Baby Contest. All shapes and sizes of the little ones were waiting to share with the audience their own

special personality and athletic abilities. Some of the costumes included in the Decorated Diaper were a strawberry birthday cake, a Harley hog motorcycle, an alligator, Noah’s ark

and many other cleverly decorated diapers. Moms gingerly walked across the stage as they held their bundle of diapered joy for the crowd and judges to view. The audience was thrilled by the originality and beauty.

The diaper derby was the beginning of some baby’s careers as athletes. It was hilarious to watch the little tikes prepare for the race. The competitors were lined up as their parents placed them on the playing ﬁeld. At the sound of the whistle the Mom’s gave their athletes a little inspiration with a light push on their fannies. This

�� “If they could see you through my eyes, they’d know where the real beauty lies. Deep inside your heart, who you really are; if they could see you through my eyes.”

Former keyboard player and background vocalist for Grammy Award winning recording artist, Lee Greenwood. Has shared the concert stage with such popular recording artists as Martina McBride, Tanya Tucker, Trisha Yearwood and even Porter Wagoner at the famed Grand Ole Opry. Currently on tour with Bill Gaither on the Gaither Homecoming and Gaither Vocal Band Concert Tours

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 24

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DIAPER DERBY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 Decorated Diaper It’s More Than Just Shortcake: Bailey Marie Polk Funniest: Gracie Ashlyn Garner Kids TV Cartoon Character: Savannah Marie Sierra Most Creative: Easton William Morrow The Most Look Alike Twins winners, Reagan and Samantha Stocksick.

Drew Christopher Stakelum with mom Brittany

encouraged some of them, while others just sat and played. Dads on their knees cheered the babies on using trinkets to entice them to the ﬁnish. Some chose not to race, others crawled right across, while some just stopped and quit midway of the ﬁeld. The contest is open to Hillsborough County residents with no pre-registration needed. Many of the Mom’s enter their babies on the spur of the moment. We look forward to this

Gage Travis Rogers (with parents Travis and Lindsay Rogers) won for the Fastest Crawling Baby.

event each year as it brings “great joy to the family members of each baby,” stated Kristi Dean, chairman of the baby contest. Ten women behind the scenes of the two and a half hour contest worked diligently to provide the fun ﬁlled event. The team consisted of Kristi Dean, Rhonda Allen, Connie Barrow, Crissy Boyd, Bonnie Bullard, Jana Butler, Sonya Smothers, Denise Ward, Kathy Atchison and Angel Brown.

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16-18 Months: Chase Patrick Simpson Biggest Eyes Abigail Saunderson Baldest Head Lillian Elle Hein Chubbiest Cheeks Emmerson Alexis Givens

Prettiest Girl 6-9 Months: Ryleigh Elizabeth O’Hora 10-12 Months: Carson Renee Buttram 13-15 Months: Laniya Destiny Purfee 16-18 Months: Gabriella Virginia Holmes

Most Hair Savannah Marie Sierra Look Alike Twins Reagan & Samantha Stocksick Diaper Derby 6-8 Months: Gavin Bryce Young 9-12 Months: Gage Travis Rogers

Most Handsome Boy 6-9 Months: Mason Singleton 10-12 Months: Drew Christopher Stakelum 13-15 Months: Noah Robert Riley Haines

Fastest Crawling Baby Gage Travis Rogers

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The Youth Plant Show and Live Auction IT’S DEFINITELY NOT SHORTCAKE

duce beautiful blooms and greenery, befitting local businesses all over the area. They then prepared to have them auctioned off to the highest bidder from various local businesses that came out to bid on the plants after they had been put in order based on the show’s results. The plants, ranging from Knock-Out Roses to Confederate Jasmines and various Orchids to Aztec Grass, were sold in groups to the Chloe Wineinger was declared the Grand more than 40 different Champion with her Grandiflora Tibouchina businesses and local sponsors. These businesses have he one thing that’s on everybeen crucial in helping to raise one’s mind as they attend the thousands of dollars in youth Florida Strawberry Festival is probscholarships for children who have ably, hands down, the strawberry. participated in various FFA and After all, that’s actually included in 4-H club activities for years. the title of the festival. On March 4, ornamental plants pushed aside Even though the strawberry is the glorified fruit, even if it was King in Plant City’s Florida only for a few hours. Strawberry Festival, the youth who participated in the Ornamental The show and sale turned this Plant Show and Sale have definiteyear’s attendees to the Livestock ly showed everyone who attended tent where dozens of people atthat the strawberry isn’t the only tended to watch the 33rd annual plant worth mentioning. Youth Ornamental Plant Show and live auction. The tent held over 220 lots of plants to be sold at the auction by the various children and teenagers who belong to 4-H Clubs and Future Farmers of America, or FFA. These local children have grown their own small gardens, taking care of their Dozens of local businesses came out to bid on various plants to raise own plants to pro-

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1802 W. Reynolds (Just East of Fairgrounds) www.brownsﬂoralshop.com FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 27

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Story and Photos by Cheryl Johnston

Miss Heart of Plant City PAGEANT WITH A PURPOSE

as homelessness, HIV/AIDS prevention, domestic violence, diabetes awareness, character education, and literacy. Ashlyn Robinson, 2007 Miss Teen Heart of Plant City, is a freshman at Plant City High School, whose platform is “Accept the Skin You’re In!” As Little Miss Plant City at age 10, Ashlyn learned to deal with peer pressure. This year she hopes to convince teens to “love who you are and treasure your unique gifts.” Although Ashlyn has competed since age four, she still becomes excited and nervous. Of the Miss Teen Heart pageant, she said, “All the girls were great. Whether I won or not, I know God has a plan and He knows best.” From left to right: Little Miss Heart Baylee Astin, Junior Miss Heart Madison Astin, Miss Heart Megan Shelley and Miss Teen Heart Ashlyn Robinson

trawberries, vegetable crops, and beauty queens abound in Plant City. Soon, thanks to the Miss Heart of Plant City pageant, 18-year-old Megan Shelley may be crowned Miss Florida in June, and advance to the Miss America competition. Gifted with poise, talent, and a winning smile, Megan hopes to showcase her town in a national venue. Miss Heart of Plant City annually crowns four queens, girls who must live in PC speciﬁc zip codes. Since 2002, with the greatly appreciated help of local sponsors, the Miss Heart pageants have provided college scholarship opportunities for young women as they pursue the dream of wearing the Miss America crown. The four new queens, who all wore pink gowns, include: Little Miss Heart, (ages 5-9)- Baylee Astin; Junior Miss Heart (ages 10-12)- Madison Astin; Miss Teen Heart (ages 13-17)- Ashlyn Robinson; and Miss Heart (18-24)- Megan Shelley. The

two older groups compete in formal, informal, swimsuit, interview and talent categories. Both Ashlyn and Megan performed clogging routines. Sponsorships by local businesses provide funds for the girls’ competition clothing, travel expenses, and entry fees. Contributors may earmark donations to be used only for scholarships. Pageant organizers are actively seeking additional sponsors, which typically contribute from $500 to $5,000. Anchor sponsors receive top billing on ﬂoats and ads, and the girls make personal appearances, beautifully promoting each business. Winners share their personal platforms. Each contestant selects a relevant issue, which concerns her deeply, then uses her status to address community service organizations, business/civic leaders, schools, and media. Since 1989, Miss America titleholders have spoken publicly at thousands of engagements and charitable events, generating awareness for such causes

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 28

Megan Shelley, 2007 Miss Heart of Plant City, also enjoyed serving on the 2006 Strawberry Queen Court. She attends HCC and will pursue a career in Agricultural Communications and Marketing. Her platform is “Agricultural Awareness: Keeping Good Things Growing,” which emphasizes the importance of a healthy food supply. Both girls will appear in March at the Chamber breakfast, United Food Bank Golf Tournament, and at Taste of Plant City in May. The younger winners, sisters Bailie and Madison Astin, also make certain public appearances.

l to r, Miss Teen Heart Ashlyn Robinson and Miss Heart Megan Shelley

tography, Fred’s Market & Grandpa Johnson’s Barbeque Restaurants, Joseph Sedita & Company, Central Florida Excavating & Fill Dirt, Brown’s Floral, Wal-Mart, Sparky’s, Ms. Dixie Aurora’s Dance Studio, Southern Hospitality, Sparky’s, Westcoast Enterprises, Hillsborough Title, Linder Industrial Machinery, Gulf Coast Turf & Tractor, LaRoyce Keene Builders, Kazbor’s Grille, Creative Flower Designs by Glen, and the Athletic Club. The Miss America crown’s four points symbolically represent success, scholarship, service and style – all qualities evident in our four new Miss Heart queens. These lovely young ladies will enchantingly represent our community. For pageant and sponsorship details, visit www. missheartofplantcity.com or phone 813-478-8873.

Ashlyn and Megan, along with pageant CEO, Roxanne Fulwood, especially thank sponsor Joe Wiggins of Gulf Coast Turf and Tractor for his funds and tireless help during the recent pageant. They welcome new sponsors and encourage potential judges to attend upcoming workshops. Recent year sponsors have included Bill Heard Chevrolet, Ramada Inn Plantation House, Billy Friend Pho-

Little Miss Heart Baylee Astin and Junior Miss Heart Madison Astin

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Story and Photos by Emily Allen

Prized Animals Honored AT THE POULTRY AND RABBIT SHOW

the proud names of each of the contestants, whether professional or amateur. Judy Trochimowicz of Largo was admiring the roosters and their size. She was especially taken with the Grand Champion, saying, “He is gorgeous.” The rabbits were content to be admired

he Florida Strawberry Festival certainly has a lot of strawberries, but each year it also showcases other aspects of agriculture, including poultry and rabbits. The Poultry and Rabbit show took place from March 1-7 and was a great display of all different types of breeds, sizes and colors. The walkway was lined with hundreds of chickens, roosters, and rabbits, along with

Lisa Shumak won the prize for Grand Champion Overall in the Poultry division 2007 for her Cubalaya breed. The beautiful reddish brown feathers and impressive size certainly set him apart. The other side of the walkway was lined with a vast array of rabbits. Adorably soft, they ranged from white and black to gray and spotted. The Grand Champion rabbit

was that of Donald Bartruff of Antioch Critters, and his amazing all-white Angora breed was breathtaking. Marveling at all the livestock, including the poultry and rabbit division, Joe and Debbie Coury of Port St. Lucie said, “We really enjoyed the Strawberry Festival. It was great, and we really enjoyed the livestock.” “Oohs” and “Aahs” could be heard as people passed by, looking at the range of colors and seeing the tiniest of chickens and rabbits to the largest anyone

has dreamed of. People of all ages were passing through taking in the “wonderful” aroma of the live animals, but mostly appreciating all the hard work, time, and effort that each contestant put into showing off their prized animals.

These fellas are excited to show oﬀ

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 29

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Story and Photo by Emily Allen

Lambs Get a Makeover

THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL’S LAMB COSTUME CONTEST IS A BIG HIT

f Little Bo Peep lost her sheep, then she should’ve gone to the Florida Strawberry Festival. On March 6, a very special event took place: the Lamb Costume Contest. Thirty contestants of young people ages 6 to 18 all showcased their furry friends, dressed up as everything from tigers and butterﬂies to Rosie O’Donnell. Each contestant and their corresponding lamb were judged and placed into one of seven categories: Most Original, Most Funny, Most Colorful, Most Creative, Most Elegant, and Best Overall. Each chose a theme and catchy slogan and dressed up themselves and the lamb to demonstrate before the crowd and the judges. One of the judges, Tracie

Goff of the Migrant Education Department, was stunned by the creativity and originality the young people displayed. “It’s my second year of judging, and what amazes me the most is how they come up with these ideas,” she says. All the hard work paid off for each contestant, as everyone received a ribbon of achievement. The Most Original blue-ribbon went to Austin Wightman for his “Boxcar Willy.” The lamb was a red boxcar with Austin as the conductor. The Most Funny ﬁrst-place ribbon went to the “Football player and his cheerleader” by Richard Mann. Richard was the cheerleader, and showed off a purple wig as he cheered on his lamb. The ﬁrst-place winner for the Most

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 30

Colorful category was Brittney Coleman for her beautiful “Spring is in the Air” lamb, complete with ﬂowers and butterﬂies. First-place for Most Creative went to Darby Hasting for her Gyro. The lamb appeared as if it were inside a pita and topped with lettuce and tomatoes. Darby was dressed as the chef and announced, “It can’t get any fresher than this!” Jessica Squitieri received a blue ribbon for her Most Elegant lamb. Jessica dressed up as Jasmine from the movie Aladdin, and her lamb was disguised as Jasmine’s tiger. Lastly, but certainly not least, the Best Overall blue ribbon went to Kelin Try for his “The Donald and Rosie.” The pun on Donald Trump and Rosie O’Donnell was perfected as Kelin wore a suit, comb-over wig,

and bushy eyebrows. The lamb, aka “Rosie”, hilariously wore a dress, curly black hair, and even red lipstick. Laughing, the judges explained they were “afraid of getting ﬁred.” Fun, exciting, funny, and entertaining are all appropriate words to describe the contest. The Lamb Costume Contest is certainly an event not to miss!

Kelin Try as “The Donald” and his lamb, “Rosie.”

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www.norwalkfurniture.com FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 31

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Story and Photo by Cheryl Johnston

Ponderosa – Great Food and Great Value TWENTY YEARS SERVING PLANT CITY APPETITES

onderosa Steakhouse has been a Plant City healthy meal mainstay for 20 years! Fresh food, cooked to order, along with a bountiful buffet, is served daily by friendly, efﬁcient employees who believe Ponderosa is one of our town’s best restaurants. Their thousands of loyal customers agree!! 20 years of service is a milestone worthy of community celebration. Eight year veteran General Manager Bruce Willis feels privileged to provide food for faithful customers and work with his young-at-heart staff. Recently, he was deeply touched, when it appeared this Ponderosa might close because the leaseholder was considering other land use options. Suddenly, circumstances changed and the leaseholder reconsidered. The restaurant was closed only one day for food supply replenishment. “I was surprised by how many customers were upset, and how kind they were to express appreciation. Also, our employees were overjoyed to keep jobs at the restaurant they consider ‘home’.” Wanda Doner is one of those faithful employees, having worked with Ponderosa almost 19 years. Asked

what she most enjoyed about her job, Wanda grinned and said, “I love the people – our customers and co-workers. They’re like family.” Ponderosa Steakhouses are connected to the restaurant franchise family of Steak and Ale, Bennigan’s, and Bonanza. Located throughout the U.S., all enjoy steady repeat customer business. Internationally, Ponderosa Steakhouses also serve great American cuisine in Bahrain, Canada, Kuwait, Puerto Rico, Taiwan and the United Arab Emirates. Visit the company’s website at www.ponderosasteakhouse.com for details. Community involvement is another Ponderosa trademark. Over the years, our local steakhouse has contributed to the Taste of Plant City, fundraisers for the Pregnancy Care Center, and local youth sports teams. “We live here, too,” says Willis. “It’s not just good business to be involved in the community. It’s the right thing to do.” The familiar green roofed restaurant is located at 1914 Jim Redman Parkway.

Scrumptious buﬀet of meats, vegetables, salads, rolls, and desserts

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 32

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 33

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Story and Photo by Sherry Baldwin

Fire Rescue Special Event Team FIRST ON THE SCENE AT THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

100,000 on weekends. They are responsible for every person working at the Festival as well. Prepared for anything that comes their way – Arnold shared that some days can become more challenging than others. For instance, soaring temperatures could send those suffering from the effects to the first aid trailer. She also stated that there is a camaraderie that exists among the various agencies, including members of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Plant City Fire Rescue, and the Plant City Police Department. If an incident should occur, everyone is prepared to kick it in gear.

HCFR Special Event Team members (l-r) Scott Lawrence, Sandra Arnold, Clay Cunningham and John Eaton.

or over 30 years, members of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue’s Special Event Team have provided “basic and advanced life support medical coverage for the Florida Strawberry Festival.” This, according to Rescue Captain Sandra Arnold who leads the team, has become an annual tradition for everyone involved. Arnold is a member of the “Core” team that also includes Bill Cheeseman, Janet Pruett, Clay Cunningham, John Eaton, Scott Lawrence and Susan Lieberstein. The remainder of the team is filled with additional Paramedics as needed. As Sandra Arnold put it, “Special team members are cross-trained Firefighters and Paramedics. They are exceptionally trained and highly skilled to provide the

best care and protection possible – to the people we serve.” Each member works for the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) with the exception of Cheeseman, who has only recently retired – after over 30 years working as a Paramedic. Cheeseman shared that he has worked the Festival for 33 years. As the Command Center Dispatcher, he keeps a constant watch over (and listens to) everything going on at the Festival. As the Festival has grown, so has the presence of the Special Team that now includes three first aid stations, three mini ambulances and a state of the art Command Center. A far cry from the early years when Arnold’s post (as a Rookie) was that of a “lawn chair

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 34

on one of the street corners” surrounding the Festival grounds. Team member Clay Cunningham, a Plant City native, has seen a lot of positive changes in the years he has worked the Festival as well. His wife Robin, who volunteers through the Festival Association, also shared how proud she is of the work performed by her husband and the “Team.” She further added how the Festival has become a real family affair for them also. Daughter Leslie works as a volunteer and if he could have made it home on leave from the U.S. Army, son Ben would be working right alongside his Dad for sure! On any given day, the team must be prepared for 50,000 – 75,000 attendees on weekdays and over

Not surprisingly, there is a lot of behind the scenes work going on at the Festival. The team actually works for three days preceding and three days following the Festival. Additionally, team members are given the option to live in the trailers on the Festival grounds. Like most firehouses, these trailers become their “home away from home.” Arnold also said that she makes certain that everyone on the team takes care of themselves. Eating right and staying hydrated are at the top of the list. So, what keeps them all coming back year after year? Everyone agreed that “The teamwork is phenomenal!” There are also those times when “patients” stop by for a visit when they return to the Festival. On example was the gentleman who received treatment after suffering a heart attack. He never misses an opportunity to say hello and express his gratitude to the team responsible for helping to save his life. Now ...who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?

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CARPORT FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 35

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Story and Photos by Emily Allen

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES RELEASES ITS NEW BOOK

“A picture is worth a thousand words, sure, but most people don’t know what those words are,” says Gil Gott of Plant City Photo Archives.

Bless This Day...Bless Our Outﬁts Too. Please Help Mom...Find Our Easter Shoes!

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

Since the year 2000, Plant City Photo Archives has revived the memories embedded in Plant City’s history through the beautiful preservation and display of its community photos. Now, seven years and thousands of photos later, PC Photo Archives is releasing a book. On March 16, 2007 “Remembering Plant City: Tales from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World” will be available to the public with 192 pages featuring 120 photographs. Each of the photos has its own story, and helps bring to life the culture of “Strawberry Town.” This illustrated history takes the reader through years of Strawberry Festivals, agriculture, growing businesses, community events, and notable people such as Joe McIntosh, R.E. Park, and the Mack family. The author, Gil Gott, is passionate about preserving the stories behind the photographs. “No one exists in

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 36

a vacuum. Everyone needs to know about the people, places, and things that have shaped us and our environment,” says Gott. Mr. Gott came on board to the PC Photo Archives back in 2000 as the Executive Director and has been amazed how the photos have ﬂooded in. With this in mind, Gott thought it would be a good idea to compile a book to attach the words with the pictures. “It is so exciting to be able to tell people these stories,” he says. After contacting The History Press in Charleston, South Carolina, the dream has become a reality. The History Press has published other books very similar to “Remembering Plant City,” and jumped at the chance to capture the essence of this Winter Strawberry Capital.

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Plant City Photo Archives is located at 119 North Collins Street in downtown Plant City

Gill Gott is the Executive Director of PC Photo Archives and is the author of “Remembering Plant City,” which will be released in March

Much hard work and dedication to Plant City has allowed this book into existence, and now these photos are beautifully preserved in history through the “stories around the photos.”

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�� Olly Howard ��

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Regan Whitehurst ��

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�� Barbara Periman ��

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Ezra Jackson ��

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 37

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Story and Photo by Sherry Baldwin

Jack T. Gibbs, III

NAMED OUTSTANDING CITIZEN OF PLANT CITY

clubs involved in the selection process. This included Gail Lyons, ABWA, Sonny Jones, Alise Sollenberger, Plant City Woman’s Club, Jodi Smith, Jr. Woman’s Club, Dr. Felix Haynes, Rotary Club, Virginia Berghoffer, Pilot Club, Brian West, Mr. Jack T. Gibbs, recipient of the 48th Annual Lions Club and Jeff Arnold Outstanding Citizen of Plant City Award, with the Optimist Club. surrounded by family members. Citizen of the Year Comhe 48th Annual Outstanding mittee Members Ken Gibbs, B.M. Citizen of Plant City Luncheon “Mac” Smith and Matt Buzza were was recently held at the Ramada also in attendance. Inn Plantation House’s Red Rose Ball Room. The event began with The Invocation was given by Gail welcoming remarks from Kiwanis Lyons, followed by the Pledge of Club President Denise McDaniel. Allegiance led by Felix Haynes Plant City Chamber Board Chairand the singing of America led man Doug Gibbs introduced repreby Virginia Berghoffer. Florida sentatives from each of the service Strawberry Festival Directors,

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 38

the Strawberry Queen, Court and chaperones, past award recipients in attendance, and the 2006 award recipient, Felton Williams, were all recognized and applauded. Representing his father Felton, Lee Williams took the stage to share “clues” about this year’s recipient. It took only a few words before the crowd quickly realized that the honors would be going to Jack T. Gibbs, III. Still known as “Jackie” by many of his friends, Gibbs was lauded for his work not only in the business world, but also for serving on a multitude of city and county committees/task forces over the past 40 years. As the owner of Jack T. Gibbs Realtors, a successful business ﬁrst started by his father, Gibbs

has also been highly involved in organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America, the Plant City Arts Council and the Plant City Chamber of Commerce, among many others. He is also a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow Recipient. Known as a selﬂess individual, Gibbs is an Ordained Minister who is involved in the Christian counseling of others as well. There to share in the special day were Gibbs’ family members including his wife Liz, his mother Margaret, son Ken, along with his wife Elizabeth and their children and son, Doug Gibbs. Congratulations, Mr. Gibbs, on “an award well deserved” from everyone here at Focus Magazine!

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Appetizer Sponsor Frank Rubel - J.G. Miles Florida Brick and Clay Company

Connoisseur Sponsor Ferman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Plant City Sparky's Oil Company, Inc. TECO

Dessert Sponsor Albertson's ALCOA Dykstra Construction Felton's Market Florida Insurance Center

Morrow Steel Pepin Distributing South Florida Baptist Hospital The Masters Land Management Warren Tree Sales, Inc.

Donation Consolidated Electrical Distributors Edwards, Platt, Raulerson, Coakley & Co. P.A. Oasis Auto Bath R & L Auto Wholesale

Hole Sign Beverage Sponsor Barbara Powers Promotions Inc. Billy Herold's Import/Truck/Car Sales Don Stine Construction Florida Tree Source, Inc. Gary & Jeannine Bell Joseph E. Sedita & Company, P.L. Poppell Insurance, Inc. Publix Supermarkets Inc. Simmons Awards, Custom Apparel & Signs State Farm Insurance - Courtney Paat Agency

State Representative Rich Glorioso Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan Work Comp Specialists Zeno Office Solutions Hillsboro Bank

Hole-In-One Sponsor Jarrett-Scott Ford Lott-Mather Motors

Main Course Sponsor Consolidated Electrical Distributors Image Depot Parksdale Farms

Raffle Items Bill Heard Chevrolet Dan Lariscy State Farm Insurance Imperial Auto Auction Keel & Curley Winery Lakeland Auto Auction Plant City Tire & Auto Service Strawberry Patch Lounge

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“The men said to them, “Why are you looking for a living person in this place for the dead? He is not here; He has risen from the dead.” - Luke 24:5-6 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 41

EASTER WORSHIP GUIDE

Recollections of Easter Story and Photos by Sherry Baldwin

Ask folks around town how they celebrated Easter growing up and you are sure to brighten their day. There were stories about dying eggs with onions and beet juice while living on a farm. There were heartfelt stories about how the “Easter Bunny” was thought to have dropped by in “his Volkswagen” and stories of receiving live chicks – dyed in colors like hot pink.

Jennifer Nelson of Plant City recently spent time sharing her own memories of Easter

Among those who gladly shared their story was area resident, Jennifer Nelson. Nelson remembered always attending Easter services with her family. Following the service, the kids enjoyed a church sponsored egg hunt. Nelson “lit up” as she recalled ﬁnding the $10 that had been placed by her minister in one of the plastic ﬁlled eggs. Nelson further stated that she has begun her own traditions with her 4 year old daughter Sterling. This includes the same yellow Peeps ® she has loved since her childhood. Long time resident, Doris Johnson, shared how (as a child), Easter eggs were colored with crayons – not the fancy dyes used today. A smile spread across her face as she remembered the way all of the girls would get “a new dress, a new hat

and a new pair of shoes to wear to church on Easter Sunday.” After attending church together, the family would enjoy a “huge dinner” in celebration of the blessed holiday. Today, Mrs. Johnson added, many of her own family traditions have been passed along to her children, grandchildren and even her great grandchildren. Bobby Burleson, also of Plant City, spent each Easter Sunday with his parents and three sisters. The day always started by attending church in their newly bought outﬁts and would end with a family egg hunt. The “real eggs” were decorated by the kids and the “plastic ones” were ﬁlled with coins and candy by his mother. Today, Burleson and his sisters help keep those family traditions alive. As the father of 10year-old daughter Haley, he hopes that she will take the same treasured memories into her own adulthood. Across the community, recollections may have varied slightly, but the thing that was abundantly clear – Easter is a time that celebrates not only love of family but also love of church.

Plant City resident Doris Johnson tell how she passed her Easter traditions on to the next generations

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 42

1st Sunday of the month One Noon Service All day dinner on the grounds ��

1212 West Reynolds Street Plant City, Florida 33563

(Two blocks east of the hospital) ��

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EASTER WORSHIP GUIDE Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ 1212 W. Reynolds Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-477-5130 Sunday Morning- 10 a.m. Sunday Evening- 6 p.m. Wednesdays- 7:30 p.m.

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Calvary Fellowship Assembly of God 1110 N. Gordon Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-5005 Sunday School- 9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship-10:45 a.m. Evening Worship- 6:30 p.m.

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Countryside Baptist Church 13422 Sidney Road Dover, FL 33527 813-571-8200 Sunday School- 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship- 10:45 a.m. Evening Worship- 6 p.m. Wednesday Worship- 7 p.m. Eastside Baptist Church 1318 E. Calhoun Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-754-2681 Sunday School- 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship- 10:45 p.m. Evening Worship- 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays- 6:45 p.m. Evangelical Presbyterian Church 1107 Charlie Grifﬁn Road Plant City, FL 33566 813-759-9383 Sunday Mornings- 9:30 a.m. Sunday School- 11:15 a.m. www.epcpc.org First Baptist Church of Durant 7725 Turkey Creek Road Plant City, FL 33530 813-737-6117 www.durantbaptist.com Sunday Services: Morning- 11 a.m. Evening- 6 p.m. Wednesdays- 6:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Midway 2902 Midway Road Plant City, FL 33565 813-752-7209 Midway Café- 9 a.m. Sunday Worship- 10 a.m. Wednesdays- 7 p.m.

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First United Methodist Church of Plant City ��

813-754-3519

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Senior Pastor Earl Smith

The Evangelical Presbyterian Church ��

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 43

EASTER WORSHIP GUIDE

Westside Baptist Church

�� PRESENTS: ��

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Reaching People For Jesus

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2505 W. Granﬁeld Ave

(1 block south of Strawberry Festival Grounds)

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813-752-1450

www.westsidebaptistpc.com

St. Clement Catholic Church invites you to

Walk with Jesus to Easter Sunday April April 5 5 Holy Holy Thursday Thursday

7pm, 7pm, Mass Mass of of the the Lordʼs Lordʼs Supper, Supper, Bilingual Bilingual followed followed by by Adoration Adoration until until Midnight Midnight in in the the Chapel Chapel

April April 6 6 Good Good Friday Friday

3pm 3pm Celebration Celebration of of the the Lordʼs Lordʼs Passion Passion and and the the Distribution Distribution of of Holy Holy Communion, Communion, English English 7pm Celebration of the Lordʼs Passion and the Distribution of Holy Communion, Spanish 9:15pm 9:15pm Candlelight Candlelight Stations Stations of of the the Cross Cross and and Procession Procession ,, Bilingual Bilingual

First United Methodist Church 303 N. Evers Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-754-3519 www.fumcplantcity.org Sunday Services: 8 a.m. Chapel Service 9 a.m. Contemporary 10 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. Traditional Services

St. Clement Catholic Church 1104 N. Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-8251 Saturday Mass 4 p.m. Sunday Mass: (English) 7 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. (Spanish) 8:30 a.m. & 7 p.m. Daily Mass- 8 a.m. (See ad for Easter Sunday Schedule)

New Life Community Church 1514 S. Alexander St Suite 202 Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-9322 Sundays 10 a.m. www.newlifeplantcity.org

Trinity United Methodist Church 402 W. English Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9316 Sunday School- 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship- 10:30 a.m. www.winestablishequip.org

Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Road Plant City, FL 33566 813-752-4591 Sunday School- 9:30 a.m. Sunday Morning- 10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening- 6 p.m. Wednesdays- 7 p.m. Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-8345 Sunday School- 9 a.m. Morning Worship-10:15 a.m. Small Groups Sunday Evenings Wednesdays- 6 p.m. www.shilohbaptistpc.org

Unity Christ Church 1911 N. Gordon Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-659-2624 Regular Services: Sundays 11 a.m. Easter Service: Sunday 10 a.m. Westside Baptist Church 2505 West Granﬁeld Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1450 Sunday School-9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship-11:00 a.m. Wednesdays-7 p.m. www.westsidebaptistpc.com

Easter Memories

April April 7 7 Holy Holy Saturday Saturday

11:30am 11:30am Blessing Blessing of of Easter Easter food food and and baskets baskets 8:15pm Easter Vigil (Bilingual-The Vigil will last approximately 2 1⁄2 Hours)

April April 8 8 Easter Easter Sunday Sunday Masses Masses

6am 6am Sunrise Sunrise Mass, Mass, English English (gather (gather in in front front of of the the Education Education Building Building and and bring bring aa lawn lawn chair-Mass chair-Mass moved moved to to church church in in case case of of inclement inclement weather) weather) 10:30am & 12:15pm, English 8:30am 8:30am & & 7pm, 7pm, Spanish Spanish

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 44

A tradition shared by many, heading to church in her new Easter outﬁt.

Easter morning with hot pink “peeps”, a recently revived Easter tradition.

EASTER WORSHIP GUIDE

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Sunrise Easter Service: 7:00am Pancake Breakfast: 8:30am Easter Service: 10:00am - 11:00am

Community Church “A place where everybody is somebody”

Invites You To Our

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(1 hour earlier than usual Sunday service)

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Youth Easter Egg Hunt: 11:15am

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Planteen Recreation Center 201 N. Dort St.

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�� How to get here: Take I-4 to exit 22 then west on South Frontage Road and south on North Gordon. Or Go north on North Gordon St. from 92/Baker, East of Park Road

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�� www.newlifeplantcity.org • Inquire@newlifeplantcity.org

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 45

EASTER WORSHIP GUIDE

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 46

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 47

General Federation of WOMEN’S CLUBS Woman’s Club of Plant City Story by Sherry Baldwin / Photos Courtesy of the Woman’s Club and the Juniorettes

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City was organized, with ninety charter members, in 1922. Under the leadership of their first President, Mrs. Nell Hathcock Leifeste, members of the club were constantly looking for ways to improve the community. Early projects included: securing community medical and mental health services, increasing their knowledge of the arts, heading up town beautification projects and participating in the war effort. The Woman’s Club was also instrumental in the establishment of the first public library in Plant City. To this very day, in the spirit of the women who came before them, the Woman’s Club of Plant City remains a vital part of the community. GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City, Inc. works through six departments whose members are dedicated to community improvement as well as our state – our nation – our world.

DEPARTMENTS

CONSERVATION

ARTS

Through the Resource Conservation Program, members are given the opportunity to offer educational programs and help organize projects. For instance, through Club’s Recycling Program, Plant City members built a float for the annual Florida Strawberry Festival Parade. Using plastic bags collected from neighbors, friends, and businesses, flowers and leaves were designed to cover the float. Other projects include the collection of items such as inkjet cartridges with proceeds going to area schools. Cell phones and eye glasses are also collected and recycled. During the month of April, Keep America Beautiful Month, the club works in collaboration with area teachers and principals to encourage students to beautify their surroundings. The Woman’s Club of Plant City has also been responsible

The objective of the Arts in the Community Program is to encourage members to foster and support arts activities in their communities. The Woman’s Club of Plant City, Inc. supports Art for Youth with their participation in the Children’s Fun Festival held each year at Hillsborough Community College’s Plant City Campus. Artistic and fun activities are planned and implemented by club members. The club also supports the Arts within the community by offering workshops that appeal to everyone from the novice to the more seasoned artist. Additionally, club members regularly demonstrate and display their talents.

Community Improvement through Volunteer Service FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 48

for planting many of the trees in the Plant City area. The club participates annually in Arbor Day activities and on a trip to the Holy Land last spring, planted trees in Israel.

EDUCATION Through the Lifelong Learning Program, the club is committed to the fostering and supporting of educational opportunities. This is accomplished by promoting reading and learning and also encouraging membership in the Friends of Libraries, USA (FOLUSA). Memorial book donations are regularly made to Bruton Memorial Library, named for the club’s past president, Quintilla Bruton. In fact, in January, during their 85th anniversary celebration, the club was acknowledged for their continued support of library services. The club hosts activities at the local library and donates books to a variety of groups within the community. The club also participates in the “Dr. Seuss Read In”, along with the “Great American Read In.” Additionally, school supplies are collected and donated to area schools. For the past 50 years, the club has provided scholarships to area high school and college students. New scholarship opportunities for students diagnosed with cancer, are offered through the club’s “Making Dreams Come True Scholarship.” In addition, Epsilon Sigma Omnicron, GFWC’s Honorary Educational Society, continues to be an important asset. Literacy has been a part of GFWC’s mission from the very beginning. In an effort to contribute to the increase in literacy, club members train and act as tutors to members of the community. This includes the teaching of conversational English to non-English speaking residents.

mastectomy patients. The club provides sponsorships to the local Pregnancy Care Center and also the Relay for Life in honor of its own cancer survivors. Participation in the Dress for Success program included the donation of more 20 outﬁts to women who needed appropriate clothing for job interviews and work. Additional sponsorships include: Boggy Creek Camp, Special Olympics, and Meals on Wheels.

WOMEN’S HEALTH This program seeks to educate members and others about the most prevalent medical problems affecting women today. The club seeks to encourage women to educate themselves and adopt proven methods for achieving a healthy and long life. club members with medical backgrounds regularly share their knowledge and expertise. In fact, one club member not only helps in educating other members, but has also initiated (and currently facilitates) a support group for cancer patients.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS Through a program known as “Reaching out Internationally”, club members (and others) are educated on world needs and ways to offer needed support. This is accomplished through organizations such as: Operation

Members and guests from Russia shared a traditional Thanksgiving dinner

Representative Rich Glorioso, Woman’s Club President, Alise Sollenberger, FFWC President, Pat Keel and Plant City Mayor John Dicks. Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership “HOBY” The Woman’s Club of Plant City sponsors the outstanding 10th grade student selected from Plant City High School to attend this state leadership conference.

HOME/LIFE The Helping Hands Program educates members, and others, about organizations that work to improve the lives of others. Support is offered to groups such as: Canine Companions for Independence (CCI), Habitat for Humanity International, March of Dimes (MOD), and the National Organization on Disabilities (NOD). Club members have also sponsored parties for students at J.S. Robinson Elementary School for over 30 years. In addition, clothing is purchased and donated to children who attend area schools. Club members make and distribute “lap robes” to area nursing home residents. A new project last year was the making of pillows for

Smile, CARE, Plan USA, UNICEF and World Food Day. For the past three years, members of the Woman’s Club of Plant City have purchased animals through a program known as Heifer International. Members have also decorated and ﬁlled boxes for Operation Christmas Child. They hosted a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for a delegation of Russian dentists and enjoy an association with exchange students from Japan and Denmark who are currently enrolled at Plant City and Durant High Schools.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS Through the Citizenship Program, club members participate in their community by encouraging active citizenship. This is accomplished by educating members (and others) on political candidates and participating in the voting process. Club members also volunteer at the election polls. Through Women in Military Service for America (WIMSA), members are given ways to recognize the dedication and patriotism of women who have served our country. Club members also participate in Memorial Day, Veterans’ Day and local National Guard Welcome Home activities. They also send phone cards, stamps and cards to military personnel serving our country abroad. Additionally, the club will soon begin their participation in the “Sew Much Comfort” program. Through this program, club members will help to construct adaptive clothing to be used by those injured while serving in our country’s military.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 49

The Hacienda Girls Ranch, local domestic abuse shelters and emergency disaster assistance agencies also receive ongoing support from the Woman’s Club. This past year club members interviewed and taped over 9 hours of oral history of past presidents, children of past presidents, and friends regarding the development of the community and the Woman’s Club’s contributions to the development of the community. Woman’s Club members also work in volunteer service at the Florida Strawberry Festival, Photo Archives, South Florida Baptist Hospital, and the Bruton Library.

ANNUAL FUNDRAISERS Fundraisers for the Woman’s Club of Plant City include a Valentine Card Party and Luncheon and an upcoming luncheon to be held on Friday, March 23 at Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Plant City. Proceeds from this event will help fund the Making Dreams Come True Scholarship Program for area students who have been diagnosed with cancer.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR The Woman’s Club of Plant City co-sponsors the Plant City Citizen of the Year Award. In fact, ﬁve club members have been selected as the Citizen of The Year as the result of the many volunteer contributions that each one has made to the community. This includes Quintilla Bruton, Ruth Lyle, Judy Martin, Betty Watkins and Betty Chambers.

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City, Inc. meetings are held at the Woman’s Club, located at 1110 N. Wheeler Street in Plant City on the second Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. of each month September – May. For more information please contact: Alise Sollenberger, Club President, 813-659-3397.

Jr. Woman’s Club of Plant City The Plant City Junior Woman’s Club was organized under the sponsorship of the Woman’s Club of Plant City on February 22, 1940. It joined the Florida Federation on October 23, 1945. Mission: To improve our community and ourselves through dedicated participation in fundraising, volunteerism, and educational endeavors.

During Literacy Day, students are given books and club members lead a pep rally on the importance of reading. Through this event, students are also reminded that “they can travel anywhere in the world just by opening a book!” Additionally, this committee is responsible for distributing scholarships to deserving high school students.

HOME/LIFE

Junior Woman’s Club Installation 2006 (l-r) Carmela Johnson, District 8, Junior District Director, Jodi Smith, President, Racquel Sturgis, 1st VP and Kim Witt, 4th VP.

The Home Life Committee helps place an emphasis on issues impacting the family such as economics, substance abuse and health issues. This past year, the Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City collected clothing items, jackets and sportswear to stock their adopted school’s closet.

“One voice for children”

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

ARTS

The International Affairs Committee reaches out to our military troops serving in other countries. Recently, club members, in conjunction with the First Presbyterian Learning Center, sent items requested by members of our military who are serving in Iraq.

Members of The Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City use their creative talents by reaching out into the community. Working alongside the Adopt-A-School, the Arts Committee assists with any special projects they may have. They are also involved in helping the girls at Steppin’ Stone Farm create gifts for Mother’s Day.

CONSERVATION The Conservation Committee helps teach the importance of conserving the earth’s natural resources and beautifying our community by keeping it litter free. This past year, the Conservation Committee purchased a tree for their adopted school for planting on Arbor Day.

EDUCATION The Education Committee is designed to increase awareness of literacy and the importance of education. The Education Committee purchases and distributes books within the Adopt-A-School. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 50

PUBLIC AFFAIRS The Public Affairs Committee is responsible for spreading the good word of what the Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City does for the community. The committee is responsible for releasing photos and press releases to the news media.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES SHOE PROJECT TO LOCAL SCHOOLS Since the 1970’s, The Shoe Project is the result of all of their fundraising efforts. The money raised throughout the year allows the Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City to go to local schools and purchase shoes for children in need. Junior members go to the schools to meet with the children identiﬁed, measure their feet

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 51

and later deliver to each child a newly purchased pair of shoes. Not surprisingly, the delivery of the shoes has been described as a truly rewarding experience for everyone involved. Over the years the club has provided thousands of new tennis shoes to children attending Plant City elementary schools. In 2006 alone, the club put 769 pairs of shoes and new socks on the feet of area children- in 13 schools. This coming year another elementary school will be added to the list.

ADOPT-A-SCHOOL Every year the Junior Woman’s Club adopts a school to support through the year. Through this association, the club furnishes the school with needed items such as clothes for the emergency closet, jackets, books (from the Education Committee) or any other needs the school has. In turn, the school works with the club in support of their projects such as International Affairs and Conservation.

ANNUAL FUNDRAISERS KID’S KARNIVAL Held Each Fall at the Union Station Train Depot Kid’s Karnival is held in the beginning of each school year at Plant City’s Union Train Depot. This event is an opportunity to raise money for the Shoe Project and entertain the kids from area schools. School PTAs and Music Programs provide the entertainment. Members of the Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City are responsible for food, rafﬂe baskets, fun activities and promoting the event. Every year the project becomes a bit more “ﬁne tuned” making the next year even better than the one before.

LITTLE MISS PLANT CITY Held Each Year in the Spring The Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City is responsible for the planning and the registration of all contestants for the Little Miss Plant City contest. This long time Plant City tradition is a contest held for girls 8-10 years old residing in the Plant City area. Little Miss Plant City helps build conﬁdence and self esteem while also improving peer relationships. Each contestant is judged, by out of town guests, on personality, poise, appropriate dress, grooming and stage presence. Winners from Little Miss Plant City participate in a variety of community events, including the Florida Strawberry Festival and Christmas Parades. Proceeds from the Little Miss Plant City contest go to the club’s Shoe Project.

BABY PARADE Strawberry Festival Grounds For over 40 years, the Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City has hosted the Strawberry Festival Baby Parade. Held the last Saturday of the Florida Strawberry Festival (rain or shine) contestants age one through four are judged in a variety of categories. Proceeds from the Baby Parade also go to fund the club’s Shoe Project. The Junior Woman’s Club is also proudly represented in both the Plant City Christmas and Florida Strawberry Festival Parades. The Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City meets every 2nd Thursday of the month at the Woman’s Club house located at: 1110 N. Wheeler Street Plant City, Florida. For more information contact: Jodi Smith, Club President at 813-757-8574 or Sheri Dusse, 813752-7657.

Juniorettes Club of Plant City With their ﬁrst ofﬁcial meeting in October 2006, the Juniorettes Club was formed in Plant City. Sponsored by the Woman’s Club, is open to girls between the ages of 12-18. Charter President for the club is Kaila Gosselin, Vice President, Skoti McElveen, Treasurer, Jensen Harlow, Reporting Secretary, Megan Cochran, Corresponding Secretary, Alexa Coffee, Historian, Holley Mallalieu and Club Speaker is Chelsea Hall. Nia Jordan-Christian is the Juniorettes’ Adviser and Julie Bocak is their Co-Adviser. Currently, the members of the Juniorettes are working to raise money for three different causes: Juvenile Diabetes, Cancer Kids at Christmas and The Spring of Tampa Bay. Fundraisers will include bake sales, car washes and possibly a fashion show. One ongoing fundraiser will be to assemble glass bead bracelets. Beginning in April, these bracelets will be sold for $5 at the Plant City Bike Fest and Antique Car Show. For more information about the Juniorettes, please contact Nia Jordan-Christian at 813-754-2916 or 678-634-6705.

2007 Plant City Juniorettes Club

Thanks to the Woman’s Club, the Junior Woman’s Club and the Juniorettes for graciously providing the information contained in this article. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 52

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 54

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 55

Providing

CARE and

SUPPORT

during times of

NEED Interview by BRIAN WEST Photos by KRISTEN TONEY

Mary Alice

Hendricks gives her heart for service to others

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 56

Every city has special needs, and Plant City isn’t any different. Each day in our community brings a different situation for Mary Alice Hendricks, Executive Director of the Pregnancy Care Center. Hendricks spends her days working with the center staff members as they assist clients in their time of need. It’s not an easy job. Some days are better than others, but they spend every moment trying to make a positive impression with their clients; helping them to make informed choices about the unborn lives they carry.

Focus: Are you from Plant City? Hendricks: No. I’m a Texas girl. At one time, I lived in Lakeland for a while and then moved to Texas. I was the Executive Director for a center there, and then my husband got a little homesick for Florida, so we came back and we’re very pleased to be back in the area, and thrilled to live in Plant City. It’s such a great town, and we’ve been back for about six years now. Focus: When did the Plant City center open its doors? Hendricks: This center opened in 1994. I think they were in the planning stages for a couple of years, but opened in 1994. Focus: Tell me about the structure of the organization. Hendricks: We are a 501c3 non-profit organization, so we have a board of directors and an executive committee that helps us with day-to-day matters. We have a very active board with eight members; eight folks from the community that help provide direction. They meet once a month to review our plans and see what’s going on. We also have national affiliations with other networks that are supportive of pregnancy resource centers around the country. The largest is Care Net in Virginia. There are about 2000 centers around the country that are partnered with Care Net. We partner with them for literature and training materials. We’re also affiliated with NFLA, the National Institute of Family Life Advocates. They are more of the legal arm to make sure pregnancy centers are doing everything appropriately, especially conversion to become a medical clinic. Focus: Where did you get the desire to be involved in this type of work?

Hendricks: I would say between ten and fifteen years ago, I was working in corporate America – mostly for large hospitals and medical clinics, but my children were pretty much grown by then. So I began to search in my heart about what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. I wanted to make a difference in peoples lives. So I began to really pray about what I could do. I began researching agencies that helped people who want to move to faith-based organizations. As I learned more about pregnancy resource centers, an opportunity became available in Texas. I interviewed and I accepted the position. The years working in health care administration equipped me to provide leadership for this ministry. I graduated from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor, in Texas, and my degree is in finance and economics. Those things have helped me with the business side of the organization. So it just all came together and I think it’s a good match. Focus: Can you describe a typical day at the center? Hendricks: When I came to the center, the name was Crisis Pregnancy Center. Most people don’t want to be perceived as being in a crisis so we changed the name to Pregnancy Care Center to emphasize that clients would receive care here. But the bottom line is that many people who come to our center are in a crisis, so we are really a crisis management organization. So a typical day is not only having scheduled appointments, but also just having people walk in with sometimes very difficult relationship issues, along with personal issues – including women facing unplanned pregnancies who are literally at their wits end and have no idea what to do. Sometimes they’re even forced into an abortion situation that they’re not comfortable with. Our role is to educate, educate, educate, so they can make an informed decision. Most people, once they have a moment to speak with someone who really listens to them, they begin to articulate where their heart is with their issues, and that provides us with some very important teachable moments. That’s when we can educate them and help them through the process of making a good decision for themselves. Many people think we’re only here to save babies, but that’s not what our mission is. Our mission is to help women so they can make good decisions, because only the woman can make that kind of decision to choose life for her baby. Not everyone who walks through our doors is seeking to have or considering an abortion. Some are in great distress and we need to be there to comfort them; to be a safe haven for them and help them to receive good care. We all know that early prenatal care is important to both the mother and the baby and we’re able to facilitate that. We know that good relationships and people who are looking at establishing a cohesive family through marriage are very positive. Marriage is healthier for our community. It’s healthy for them and provides safety for their children. So we’re here to help them begin to really look at the positive things they should be doing for their lives. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 57

Focus: What do your clients establish appointments with the center for?

There is going to be a live person to answer the phone for that client; to talk with, encourage them to come in and inform them of what their options are.

Hendricks: They make appointments for pregnancy tests, they may be a client that we’ve already established a relationship with and they’re coming in for an ultrasound, or they may have been tested a week or so ago but they’re in so much indecision. So based on some triage, we’ve determined that an ultrasound would be a positive option for them, because you can’t do an ultrasound immediately upon learning that your pregnancy test is positive. We can give a positive pregnancy test seven to ten days from conception, but an ultrasound can only be done after about six or seven weeks. So during that time we try to nurture and follow up with them and schedule a time to come in for the ultrasound. Once we’ve done that, we begin to work with them to come back to the center and work on good referrals. They may also need maternity clothes. Folks in the community have donated gently used clothes. We also have diapers and formula. Our goal is to help them from the time they learn they’re pregnant right through the ﬁrst year of the infant’s life. This way, the client has the time to get on her feet, get the job she’s looking for, ﬁnish school, and adapt to parenting.

Focus: Do you have an after-hours service that handles those calls?

Focus: Do you have service boundaries? Hendricks: No. We have no limitations for anyone, regardless of where they live or what their ﬁnancial status is, we see everyone equally. We’ve had clients from Tampa. We had a referral from Ocala from someone who knew us personally and knew that we would take care of that client. Just a couple of weekends ago, we had someone come over from Clearwater. So we’ve had people come from all over the area, but our primary service area is within about twenty miles of Plant City. We service a lot of east Hillsborough County. There are other centers available in Hillsborough County; there is a center in Brandon, two centers in Tampa and two centers in Lakeland. A service we’re able to provide that not all of the others can is a 24 hour help line. Many times a client calls on a Friday evening, or a Saturday morning at 2:00 a.m.

Hendricks: No. We use trained volunteers and staff to ﬁeld those calls. There are 800 numbers throughout the country. When those numbers are dialed, the call is received and then forwarded to us. The Florida Pregnancy Network also has an 800 number and those calls are also forwarded to us if they are within a certain zip code area. Focus: Describe a great day here at the center. Hendricks: A great day here at the center is having our volunteer advocates here on deck for a full eight hours and having scheduled times for each one of them to have those divine appointments. We understand when we have a client advocate who has paired up well with one of our clients, and that those clients are able to get the things that they need, we have greater opportunities to educate and help our patients. When the client leaves, the client advocate is able to say, “We had a great time. We were able to educate her and because of the information we were able to give her, she was well informed. The light bulbs went off and she’s going to choose life for her baby.” Another great thing is to have a young teenage client say, “Sex outside of marriage is not a good thing for me, and I’m not going to do that anymore. I’ve had a change of heart and I’m going to look at what my dreams are and I’m done with the fear and anxiety about STDs and unplanned pregnancies. I’m going to look at my dreams for the future.” Perhaps we can make a difference with the person who is just frozen; they can’t make a decision because they just don’t know what to do. It’s very gratifying to be able to see them empowered enough to walk out of the ofﬁce and get on their cell phone as they tell us, “I’m calling the health department and my doctor now. I’m going to get some care,” or to have them say, “I’m going to call my dad to see if we can have lunch because I have something to tell him about.” Those are excellent days.

This type of work isn’t for everyone, but it’s second nature to Hendricks. From the moment you meet her, you realize she’s a special person doing special work. And every day she’s helping save the lives of others, teaching them how to overcome obstacles, and encouraging them to accomplish their goals; anything their hearts desire. These are great days. Thank you for the positive inﬂuence in our community. FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 58

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 61

HISTORY

DID YOU KNOW?

SEND COMMENTS TO K TONEY@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Plant City Photo Archives, Inc.

Plant City Photo Archives Annual Gala “AN EVENING OF PICTURE PERFECT MEMORIES”

Betty June Barker (Watkins) playing the piano, 1958

he Plant City Photo Archives ﬁfth annual gala, “An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories” is set for Saturday, April 28th, at the Red Rose Ballroom at the Ramada Inn Plantation House, in Plant City.

The gala will begin with a Champagne Reception at 6:30PM and will feature a continuing video and static display based on the theme “Our Town” over the years. The exhibit will contain several hundred historic photographs and will cover virtually the entire perimeter of the ballroom; the exhibit will also employ three screens for an outstanding video production. There are several activities which will be taking place concurrently, including a continuous wine tasting table, and a photo corner, sponsored by Sunshine State Federal Savings, where guests may strike romantic poses, or old friends may gather in front of a selection of three different backdrops. The complimentary photographs will be available for the guests as they leave the ballroom at the conclusion of the evening. Background music will be provided by the Plant City Photo Archives Jazz Ensemble, and the meal will include an elegant hors d’oeuvre buffet, with delicious items for any appetite. To encourage even greater atten-

dance, the price this year has been dropped to $75 per person and includes the champagne reception, wine, beer, all the hors d’oeuvre, desserts and coffee. A cash bar will be available in the Red Rose lounge adjoining the ballroom, which for this event has been renamed Tony Mike’s Cafe. The event is “black tie optional” and this year seating will be open rather than assigned. Tickets are available at the Plant City Photo Archives ofﬁce at 119 North Collins Street, in historic downtown Plant City, or call (813) 754-1578. A new addition to the set this year is the Traveling Gift Shop, which will have numerous items available for sale, including the just published book of stories about Plant City – Remembering Plant City; Tales from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. Also on sale will be videos of the Valentine’s Day Reception, and the Salute to Veterans, as well as CDs of the photos taken at the Progressive Tea & Tour, Plant City Photo Archives Note Cards, and other selected items. Another special item for sale will be the just produced 30-minute video, “Dancing With The Wind”, (DVD) about music and sailing, with all the music composed by local businessman, Ed Verner, and with the sailing and helmsman ship under the guidance of Captain Verner and Captain Gil Gott. Also on the agenda are the annual challenging Great Splendiferous Photo Trivia Quiz, including ten select historic photographs and ten questions about them, with prizes awarded to the winning table, followed by a dessert buffet, tea and coffee, and further entertainment by the Plant City Photo Archives Jazz Ensemble. The musical feature of the evening will be a melodic piano interlude by Dr. Teo Kulyk. Dr. Ku-

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 62

lyk, a local ophthalmologist, has been entertaining groups and gatherings in public and in private for a number of years and remains a local favorite. The main feature of the evening will be the presentation of the Heritage Awards. Gala Committee Co-chairmen, Stanley and Susan Kolker, have announced the recipients of the 2007 Heritage Awards will be Betty June Barker Watkins, and B.M. “Mac” Smith, who ironically were classmates at Plant City High School and who have both done outstanding service in the way of preserving the heritage and history of the greater Plant City area. Previous award recipients include D.E. Bailey, James L. Redman, and Robert S. Trinkle. Hostesses and Hosts for the evening include Linda Smith, Marsha Passmore, Mary Jane and Bill Parolini, Maida Pou, Jeanie Burt, Violete Massey, Amanda Verner, Jodi Smith, David and Alise Sollenberger, Anne Haywood, Vicki Hawthorne, Eleanore McDade, Lou Baird, Betty Chambers, Tim and Becky Martin, and Steve and Peggy Smith, among others.

Mason & Hamlin grand piano. The Exhibit Gallery is open to the public Thursday through Saturday from 10AM until 4PM, and exhibits are changed throughout the year. The Gallery is available for rentals for receptions, concerts, birthdays, lunch meetings, etc. For information on the Photo Archives, rental availability, or the annual gala, call the ofﬁce at 754.1578. Source: Plant City Photo Archives, Inc.

“Our Town” Center of Downtown Plant City circa 1950s

Plant City Photo Archives was founded in 2000 and is an awardwinning museum of historic photographs located at 119 North Collins B.M. Mac Smith while a Naval Officer (1946 – 1957) Street, in historic downtown Plant City. The facility includes the organization’s offices and a 1,000 square-foot Exhibit Gallery, and a Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and her Court assist guests in magnificent the Great Splendiferous Photo Trivia Quiz at the Plant City Photo Archives 2006 gala “An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories” .

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 64

Blackburn & Associates Realty SAVING SELLERS AND BUYERS MONEY!!!

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 65

The Sizzlers are a Girls 10 and under fast pitch softball team that participates in ASA, ISA and NSA sponsored tournaments. We are raising funds to help pay for these tournament fees and purchase new uniforms. When you participate in our Golf Tournament, you will have a chance to win fabulous (?) prizes, bring fame and glory to yourself or your business, have an excuse to play 18 holes of golf and most importantly, you’ll be helping these young girls do something they love... play ball.

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Walden Lake Golf and Country Club is located in beautiful Plant City, Florida. They have two great courses, offering 36 holes of championship golf carved from the Florida landscape and designed by renowned architect Ron Garl. Directions: Take I-4 East towards Plant City. Take Alexander St. Exit. Follow Alexander about 2.5 miles to Timberlane Dr. (Entrance to Walden Lake Community). Turn RIGHT on Timberland and follow for approx. 1.5 miles to Clubhouse Drive and you will see Club on left side.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 67

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 68

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 69

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 70

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 71

FEATURED HOME KP Realty Services and Summer Creek Townhomes Development for the Betterment of Plant City Story Submitted by KP Realty Photos by KP Realty Services and Kristen Toney Graphics Provided by KP Realty Services The staﬀ of KP Realty is here to serve you!

aren Bozeman is the owner

Realty Services there. The ofﬁce

and Broker of KP Realty

is located at 2005 Mud Lake Road,

Services, Inc. in Plant City, Florida.

Plant City (corner of Alexander

Karen was born and raised in Plant

Street and Mud Lake Road). The

City. She is one of six children,

building is a 100-year-old home in

daughter of William and Sheila

which Karen remodeled into ofﬁce

Bozeman. Karen says she wouldn’t

space. Karen believes her ofﬁce is

live anywhere else than Plant City.

as much a part of Plant City as she

Karen started KP Realty Services

is. She believes her ofﬁce building

in early 2001, fulﬁlling her lifelong

reﬂects Plant City’s Southern grace

dream of owning a small business.

and charm.

KP Realty has grown to include ten associates and one personal assistant.

“We see great things in the future,”

Karen purchased an ofﬁce building

Bozeman enthused. “We are an

in 2006 and subsequently moved KP

independent agency, which was my

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 72

The newly renovated oﬃce of KP Realty.

A Gated Community

goal, and it works very well for my

“You don’t have the upkeep and

of course, upgrade packages are

be from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

agents and me. We want to service

maintenance that you would with a

available. The townhomes will start

and will include a drawing to win a

the full needs of the community,

yard,” Bozeman commented, when

in the low 200’s with up to $6,000 in

free listing for your home and other

including both residential and com-

asked about the beneﬁts of living in

free upgrades, and the seller will pay

prizes, refreshments, entertainment

mercial. We focus on relationships

a townhome. “These townhomes

up to $4,000 towards the buyer’s

and other fun activities. Won’t you

with our clients. Service is our pri-

have all the modern amenities,

closing costs.

come out and join the celebration?

ority. We feel like we can provide

including the garages. You have

the service and expertise our clients

an independent home, yet you have

Karen Bozeman

need and deserve.”

the advantage of a neighborhood.

and KP Realty

And when you live in a townhome,

Services would

Currently KP Realty Services is

it is nice to know your neighbors.”

like to thank all

listing Summer Creek Townhomes,

Bozeman thinks Summer Creek is

of their clients

a gated single family townhome

an opportunity that Plant City needs.

for their trust

community. Summer Creek is

It is the best of both worlds!

and support.

a development by TGC Homes.

The goal is

Summer Creek will consist of 86

Once the ﬁrst phase of Summer

not to be the

townhome units located on High-

Creek has been completed, there

biggest, but to

way 574, just East of Turkey Creek

will be an on-site sales ofﬁce.

be the best. KP

Road. The idea behind Summer

Those in line to check out the

Realty Services

Creek is to go back to the time when

new townhomes will discover the

is planning a

neighbors were neighbors and knew

deluxe master suite and master

Grand Open-

each other’s names. We envision a

bathroom with a garden tub and

ing for March

place where the natural landscape is

separate shower, deluxe kitches

31, 2007, at the

preserved. There will be a walk-

with Kenmore appliance, 10-foot

ofﬁce located at

ing trail next to the creek running

ceilings, decorative plant shelves,

2005 Mud Lake

along the back of the property. We

recessed lighting throughout, deco-

Road (corner

envision residents inviting friends

rative acrylic decking on the lanai,

of Alexander

over, cooking out in the barbeque

enclosed garage with Lift Master

Street and Mud

area and watching all the kids play

opener, ADT security system, 10-

Lake Road).

together in the pool.

year Home Buyers Warranty, and

The event will FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 73

SALES CENTER NOW OPEN

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 76

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 78

C E N T U R Y

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PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 79 C o n t a c t u s at worldwiderelocation@century21.com FOCUS

Stacey Simonds and Brad Sparkman wed on January 20, 2007 during a private ceremony on Treasure Island Beach. The ceremony was ofﬁciated by Mitch Weissman and was attended by close family members. The bride is a Behavior Analyst working for Roe and Associates IBS, Inc. and the groom is the President of Progressive Research, Inc. The couple and their children reside in Plant City and attend The Church of God.

We could not have asked for a more perfect day to celebrate this occasion. The weather was perfect and the sunset was breath taking. We are blessed and excited and wanted to share some of the special memories of that day. We hope this greeting ﬁnds you and your family enjoying good health and a great 2007. From our family to yours, we wish you Joy, Love, and Peace.

�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 80

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 81

HOMES

HOME GUIDE

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Story by Natalie Sweet

The Walden Lake Review T

he Walden Lake Board is getting ready to send out the notices for the April 12th meeting to be held at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. The notices will be delivered in the Sunday Tampa Tribune on March 18th and all members of the community will receive a newspaper that day. The board asks that if you are unable to make the meeting, to please get your proxy in as soon as possible. The presidents of the neighborhood associations met and approved the changes made by the attorney to the Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws and Deed Restrictions. This is one of the items on the agenda that will be voted on by the membership. The City Commission held it’s meeting on February 26th regarding “golf

cart use”. The issue of transporting children to and from school has not been decided. There is a concern for the safety of the children and the commission will make a decision at the next meeting. Please remember that you must have a driver’s license to be behind the wheel of a golf cart and it is dangerous to let underage children drive a vehicle. The Garden Club will be planting a Butterﬂy Garden at the park. It will be close to the lake between the playground and the stage area. The master association will purchase the plants the garden club will need for the garden. Landscaping to the neighborhood entrances will begin again now that the threat of freeze is over. Some

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 82

of the entrances that had been done will need to be replanted or touched up. If you have any comments or questions, call the Walden Lake Community Association ofﬁce at 813-754-8999. The board asks that you be considerate and pick up after your pet(s). The polo ﬁeld is a great place to run your pets but children also play soccer and other sports there and it isn’t very pleasant when they run into dog droppings that should have been picked up. The new restaurant, O’Brien’s, is now open and they have been busy. They offer drink and food specials and music on the weekends. Stop in and see what they have to offer.

The Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is doing wonderful events. They will be offering an Easter brunch April 8th from 10 to 2. There will be an omelet station, carved ham, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, desserts etc. The cost is $16.99 per adult, $9.95 ages 5-1 and under 5 eats free. Make your reservations now by calling 7521171 extension 227, as these events ﬁll up quickly. Bogey’s offers a family night buffet on Thursday’s with Prime Rib always on the buffet. The Friends of Jim Stevens is having a golf tournament at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club on April 7th to beneﬁt the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Please contact Natalie Sweet at 758-9586 if you are interested in participating.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 83

HOMES

SEND COMMENTS TO K TONEY@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story by Shelton Keely

Real Estate Investing B

eing a landlord can be profitable – or a big headache. Landlording isn’t science, but if you’re willing to put in the time and effort, buying and operating rental properties can pay off big. The key thing to remember is that buying rental properties is not for point and click investors. Even landlords who hire out the plumbing, painting and rent collection to contractors and management companies typically make a big time commitment. For the first time landlord, there is plenty to learn – about taxes, financing, dealing with difficult tenants—and usually there are many mistakes to be made. The payoff can be terrific, though, even for investors who own just one or two properties. Doing it right will get you extra income now and a valuable addition to your retirement nest egg down the road. Know how to take your market’s temperature. When considering a rental property, your top concern should be whether you can make money renting it out now, not how much its price might appreciate in the future (although that’s important, too). All you’re doing is speculating on real estate prices if you’re shelling out more than you’re taking in—and that can be dangerous, especially if you’re doing it with borrowed money. You never want to buy a property where every month you have to feed it. So before you buy, add up your projected property taxes, mortgage payments and maintenance costs, and make sure the total is less than your expected rental income. Find smart ways to cut your financing costs. Borrowing to buy real estate as an investment is more expensive than borrowing to buy a home. Lenders generally think they are taking more risk on buildings that the owner doesn’t live in. Consequently, the interest rates they charge tend to be 0.5 percentage point or more above those for traditional home mortgages. Not only that, but borrowers need excellent credit scores to qualify for the lowest rates. In addition, the minimum down payment is usually 20 or 25 percent, instead of 0 to 20 percent for standard home mortgages. Learn to take advantage of the many tax breaks. For tax purposes, what you make in rent is generally taxable as regular income. Real estate taxes and mortgage interest on an investment property are fully tax deductible, though. Operating expenses such as utilities, insurance and repairs are also deductible. So are rental fees paid to brokers, although they must be spread out over the life of the lease. Even better, the federal tax code entitles rental property owners to a depreciation deduction even though housing prices usually go up, not down, over time. (There are, however, numerous conditions and catches, which is why it is essential to consult a tax adviser before you invest a cent.) Anticipate problems (they will be numerous). Reliable, prompt – paying tenants do up and leave suddenly. Minor leaks have a way of becoming expensive repair jobs. That’s why it’s smart to line up inspectors and contractors before you buy. And why it’s important to establish rainy-day funds. Two or three months’ rent is usually – but not always – sufficient. Finally, don’t skimp on fees should you decide to hire a management company to tend to your rental property. The typical fee is 8 to 10 percent of rental income. Experienced landlords say it’s not worth it to be cheap: Property managers often work harder to fill vacancies and to maximize rent.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 84

FREEMARR HOMES, INC. “Your Quality Home Builder”

NOW SELLING

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

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 85

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F EATURED H OME O F T HE M O NTH ��

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Your family will love this very nice, well kept 3 bedroom 2 bath 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.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 86

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A LITTLE PONDEROSA

Tucked away on 3.75 acres youʼll ﬁnd this great 3 bedrm 2 bath home with approx. 1954 sq ft of living space. Open front porch & scrnd back porch. Property is fenced & cross fenced with a barn & small pond w/ﬁshing dock. Youʼll love this one for $399,000. #718

BRAND NEW & WAITING FOR YOU! This 3 bedroom 2 bath home has a great ﬂoor plan & is almost completed. Great room with ﬁreplace. Master Suite has his and her walk-in closets, garden tub & separate shower. Screened lanai. Home sits on a high & dry acre lot. Priced at only $339,000. #607

RAISE A STEER OR Plant a garden..Thereʼs plenty of room on approx. 4.7 acres that surrounds this 3 bedroom 2 bath block home. Freshly painted & updated with new tile ﬂoors, new windows & new doors. Move-in condition! Check it out today.$330,000. #716

A DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH With a lot of TLC and hard work this 3 bedroom 1 bath home can be a real jewel. Tucked away down a private lane in a park like setting on 1 1⁄2 acres MOL it can be yours for just $135,000. Get on your work clothes & give us a call today #714

LOTS & ACERAGE

As we celebrate our

• 2.33 Acres just inside Polk County$155,000 #720

we want to say a very special

• Buildable City Lot w/large oaks $35,000 #717 NO DOUBT ABOUT IT This 2 bedroom bungalow needs a lot of work to bring it into shape or you can tear it down & build your dream home on this pretty city lot. Either way it can be yours for just $69,900. Want to know more? Give us a call for the location. #713

PERFECT FIRST HOME Your family will love this very nice, well kept 3 bedroom 2 bath 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

20th ANNIVERSARY

• Three adjoining lots available in a great area. 1 acre --$150,000, 1.5 acres--$150,000, 3 acres --$200,000. Buy one or all. #719

“THANK YOU” to all who have contributed to our success.

WE REALLY APPRECIATE YOU!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 87

MONEY

INVESTING

SEND COMMENTS TO K TONEY@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM Submitted by Edward Jones

How to Choose a Financial Advisor I

f you’re like most people, you have a variety of financial goals: college for your children, a comfortable retirement, a vacation home and so on. You might be able to achieve all these goals on your own - but you will likely find it a lot easier if you get a little help from a financial advisor. But how do you choose the right one? For starters, ask your friends, relatives and co-workers whom they use. Then interview some of the people they recommend. What questions should you ask at such an interview? Consider these:

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

813 / 759 - 1491

What are your qualifications? Make sure you are talking to someone who, at a minimum, has all the required licenses for selling securities. What type of experience do you have? Find out how long someone has been a financial advisor, but don’t rule out a person with only a limited amount of experience - a new financial advisor frequently brings a great deal of enthusiasm to his or her work. A financial advisor’s longevity is less important than whether he or she has had experience working with someone like you - someone in your financial situation, with your goals and your investment preferences. What is your investment philosophy? Try to learn if someone favors a specific style of investing or a particular class of investments. These styles or classes may be well-suited for some investors but inappropriate for others. If you believe the person you’re talking to has a “one size fits all” mentality, you might want to look elsewhere. How will you communicate with me? Financial advisors run their business in different ways, so there’s no one “right” way of communicating with clients. However, you need to feel comfortable that someone will always be available to answer your questions, review your accounts, evaluate your situation and make appropriate recommendations. If you are interviewing someone who has a partner or an assistant, find out whom you are likely to be communicating with, should you decide to become a client. What services do you provide? Find out just how a prospective financial advisor can help you. For example, some people sell investments only, while others offer investments and insurance. Keep in mind, though, that you don’t need to be a “one-stop” shopper when it comes to obtaining a wide range of services. In fact, you might want to ask a prospective financial advisor if he or she has developed working relationships with legal and tax advisors. This “team” approach can be quite beneficial to you, especially when you get into the area of estate planning. How are you paid? Financial advisors get paid in several different ways: fees, commissions, salary or some combination of these methods. One way isn’t necessarily any “better” than another, from your point of view, but you should have a clear understanding of what type of compensation is being used. Your association with a financial advisor is one of the most important business relationships you’ll ever have, so make sure it’s a good one - right from the start.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 88

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 89

MONEY

BUSINESS PROFILE

SEND COMMENTS TO K TONEY@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Story and Photos by Holly Mallalieu and Sophia Dedon

Now Care Walk-In Clinic IMMEDIATE HELP FOR A NUMBER OF CASES Chambers-Peacock building; in fact, they may have been born in it! This building continues a long tradition of personalized medical care in the Plant City area. Often, people go to an emergency room when the problem could be handled at a walk-in clinic. Now Care will be sure to help you in a timelier manner than an E.R., plus your co-pay will be less expensive. Now Care also has a full medical staff to serve you. For the growing Spanish population in Plant City, there is always someone available to translate. Dr. Strait carefully examines this youngster

lthough many people associate Strait with George Strait, he’s not the only one who can fix your problems. Use George for your emotional escape in music, but when you need to see a real doctor, just walk on in to Dr. Strait’s office in Plant City! Dr. Stephen M. Strait, a Board Certified Physician, and wife Theresa opened Now Care Walk-In Clinic in February of 2005. Since then, the no-appointment-necessary center has served to meet Plant City’s medical needs. They can help with situations ranging from minor injuries and cuts, colds and flu’s, to physicals for school and sports. When a person’s regular doctor is booked or unable to see a patient the Now Care Walk-In Clinic serves as a very reliable source. Now Care specializes in an array of medical services and can help you today when you need it. To name only a few of their services: lacerations and cuts, sore throat and sinus, aches and infections,

simple eye emergencies, as well as Pneumonia, Asthma, Urinary Tract infection and Bronchitis. Most insurance is welcome at the clinic. They even accept Medicare and Medicaid! Actually, they aren’t even aware of an insurance company they do not accept at this point. Worker’s Comp claims are accepted too. However, if you do not have insurance, then cash or credit card is easily accepted. The ofﬁce also specializes in occupational medicine; services such as work injuries, pre-employment and DOT drug screens and physicals, EKG’s, Spirometery and Audiometry, to name a few. They also have X-ray’s and lab available on site. After a visit to the physician, you are able to return for a follow-up. The facility is easily accessible because it is located off Baker Street (92W) in the historic district, between downtown and Alexander Street. Many residents of Plant City remember the building as the old

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 90

Dr. Strait is a native Floridian, so it is not a surprise that he chose to practice in beautiful Plant City. He graduated high school from New Port Richey, FL then went on to the University of Florida for his undergraduate years. He then graduated medical school in Kansas City, Missouri, followed by his internship and residency in York, Pennsylvania. While there, he was a family practice physician for nine years before moving back home to Florida. He was the medical director of a large, busy, established urgent care clinic in Brandon before moving to Plant City to open Now Care Walk-In Clinic. Everyone at Now Care Walk-In Clinic would like to say an appreciative “thank you” to the entire community for allowing them to service their medical needs for this long, and

Dr. Steven Strait

it hopes to be of service for many more years to come. It is without a doubt providing a wonderful service for the people of Plant City and its surrounding areas. For more information pertaining to the clinic, e-mail them at nowcare@verizon.net, or call them at 813-759-1232. The ofﬁce is located at 1009 W. Baker St. Hours of operation are Monday–Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Remember, no appointment is necessary, just simply walk-in!

Plant City’s Now Care Walk-In Clinic

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813-300-4763 • 813-757-0140 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 91

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 92

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 93

SPORTS

BASEBALL

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Story by Joe Bowles Photos courtesy of Kyle Buchmann, Director of Tournaments and Championships, North East Atlantic Regional Director, National Club Baseball Association

For the Love of the Game SPRING TRAINING RETURNS TO PLANT CITY

Illinois batter takes a pitch outside from Wisconsin-Eau Claire pitcher

hen the Cincinnati Reds moved their spring training from this area in 1997, it appeared that Plant City would no longer be the destination of baseball players honing their skills for the upcoming season. That is no longer the case. Although the city no longer hosts professional baseball, it has become the home to nearly 40 college club teams that utilize the facilities at Mike Sansone Park throughout the month of March.

students who want to play baseball at another level. They keep baseball in their hearts after high school. They are playing for the love of the game.” The level of competition varies within the NCBA as teams are grouped with clubs within geographic conferences. Many of the more competitive teams have had players join their school’s varsity teams, others have moved on to play professionally, and two have

been drafted by Major League teams.

city during the month of March is between $300,000 and $400,000.”

Carlton Benton, the city’s Recreation Superintendent, feels the spring training arrangement is beneficial to all parties. “College students get the opportunity to come to Florida during spring break and be close to Clearwater, Daytona and the theme parks while they’re preparing for the season to begin. For some of the northern teams, it will be the first time this year they have been able to train outside. Financially, it works out well for the city. We help arrange the schedule and handle the field preparation for a fee to use the fields.”

Collegiate club baseball has been around for 25 years. Only recently, however, has it been organized and recognized nationally. During the season, NCBA conducts a weekly poll of top ten teams, selects an AllAmerican Team, and even holds a World Series to determine a national champion. Last year, Colorado State won their third consecutive national title.

Buchmann is grateful for local sponsors, such as Plant City’s Ramada Inn, who help promote the Spring Training Showcase each spring. In turn, he feels that the Showcase is able to return the favor by providing a direct impact on the city ﬁnancially. He estimates that “the economic impact to the

Collegiate club baseball teams are comprised of students who are not a part of their respective school’s varsity baseball team, but who still desire to be part of a competitive baseball program. These teams are afﬁliated with the National Club Baseball Association that began in 2000 with 33 teams and now includes more than 145 teams, of which 39 make the trip to Plant City for their spring training. According to Kyle Buchmann, Director of Tournaments and Championships for the NCBA, “Club baseball teams are operated by the players themselves. Most are responsible for their own fundraising and team management. These are

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 94

Cental Michigan bats against Robert Morris

Some of the teams involved in the Showcase here in Plant City include last year’s World Series runner-up, Penn State, and third place ﬁnisher, Texas. Other schools represented are Michigan, Ohio State and Indiana, as well as Florida schools such as FSU, UCF, Florida and Miami. Buchmann invites all who love the game of baseball to attend the Spring Training Showcase brought to you by young men who are playing simply for “the love of the game.”

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 95

SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

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Story and Photo by Holly Mallalieu

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

MICAH CARMONY I

f you have been to a Plant City High School baseball game, you have probably heard of Micah Carmony. First, because he’s one of only a few freshmen players on the Varsity team (and he’s definitely changed any Raiderfans’ mind who may have felt that no first-year students should make the Varsity cut). Second, because his talent and natural ability really make him stand out on the baseball field. For Carmony, baseball has been a big part of life for a long time now, so he’s no amateur to the game. Before high school, he spent every year playing for Plant City Little League teams. And maybe it’s because of this, as well as his long-time involvement in AAU (travel ball), that Coach Sodders, who is in his first year as head baseball coach at PCHS, the school from where he graduated himself, decided Carmony was a player he definitely could not pass up for the Varsity team. Sodders praised Carmony for, of course, his skills in baseball, but also for his athletic success in only his first year of high school. “He’s an inspiration,” said Sodders, “He really exemplifies a ball player.” With his good sportsmanship and great attitude, on top of all of his other assets, it looks as though Carmony has made a name for himself that we’ll probably be hearing for the next few years to come. Now that you know a little bit about him, be sure and look for Micah Carmony, #10, on the field at one of the Raider baseball games. He is leading the team in hitting thus far, and it’s clear that America’s favorite pastime is something he excels in.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 96

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 98

�� Come Join Us For A Day Of Fun ...and help in the ﬁght against cancer

�� Saturday, April 7, 2007 Walden Lake Golf & Country Club Plant City, FL Shotgun start at 8:00am

Contact

Natalie Sweet 758-9568 or Margaret Stevens 754-2043 For More Information

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 99

HEALTH

SEND COMMENTS TO K TONEY@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Submitted by Sherry Nueesch

Let’s Eat our bodies doesn’t show damage as fast and as dramatic. Since the damage is cumulative and much slower, it is harder for us to recognize the negative impact of putting the wrong fuel in our bodies. I also think that is part of the plan. I don’t think our Creator wanted us to keel over just because we eat a few bad things here and there. Our bodies are deﬁnitely programmed to survive. We have an incredible built-in protection to survive. Yet surviving and thriving are two different things.

MMMMM, tastes good, doesn’t it? I think our Creator wanted us to like to eat so we would do it. It’s sort of like how he made us really like the opposite sex so we would do that adult thing that keeps us reproducing. We are supposed to like to eat. When we like something, we keep doing it. Hunger is nature’s way of making sure we do eat. My advice is to eat up. All living things and most non-living things need a fuel source. Cars don’t run very long without gas. Light bulbs don’t work without electricity. Cell phones don’t last very long without their batteries being charged. Neither do you. So eating is a good thing. With that said, if your car requires gasoline, do you put diesel fuel in it? Plants need sunshine and water to thrive. Do you douse them with bleach? No, we don’t, because we know that bleach is going to kill the plants and diesel is going to ruin a gasoline engine. Herein lies the problem. If you put diesel fuel in a gasoline powered engine, it’s going to conk out after a couple of miles. Bleach will kill a plant in a couple of hours. Putting the wrong fuel in

Modern medicine is ﬁnally coming to terms with the fact that the fuel we chose to feed ourselves does have a powerful and direct impact on the state of our health. Our bodies will survive some bad choices now and then. Yes, thank you, because some of that junk food does taste good!! However, if we continue to primarily eat junk, the human body will begin to rebel. Disease is nature’s way of telling us that we need to re-think what fuel we are putting in our mouths. There is a Chinese Proverb which states, “Whatever the father of illness, the mother is wrong food.” My personal wish for you is that you think about the fuel you put in your body BEFORE you get sick. Give your engine what it really needs. Your engine wants food, real food, not artiﬁcially produced chemicals. For example, let’s look at berries. That’s a good one for this time of the year. The best reason to eat berries is that they taste good. Berries are a good source of minerals, Vitamin C and cartenoids. They contain nitrilosides, an anticancer member of the B complex family. Berries also contain a compound called ellagic acid, which is an antioxidant that helps detoxify carcinogens. Researchers

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 100

have found that it works in several ways, by inhibiting the carcinogen itself and by preventing DNA cells from undergoing mutation. Strawberries are the richest source of ellagic acid, which is both in the pulp and the seeds. Compare that to artificial strawberry flavor of Benzyl Acetate, which is a nitrate solvent!!! That’s a big ouch for anybody’s body. And when you eat those strawberries, please use real cream. Cool whip contains: Water, corn syrup, hydrogenated coconut and palm kernel oils, sugar, sodium caseinate, polysorbate 60 and sorbitan monostearate, natural and artificial flavors, xanthan gum and guar gum and artificial color.

Home-made whipped cream contains cream and sugar. Enough said! Please choose your fuel wisely. Your body will thrive, not just survive. Eat up, and enjoy the pleasure. Be kind to yourself and choose real food most of the time. You all know that your health depends on it. Let me leave you with this quote from an ancient Greek philosopher; “We may live without poetry, music and art…We may live without conscience and live without hearts…We may live without friends…We may live without books…But civilized man cannot live without cooks.” I wish you good choices and good health, as always, Sherry Nueesch.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 101

HEALTH

SEND COMMENTS TO K TONEY@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM

Submitted by John C. Carrozella, M.D.

Shin Splints:

WHAT ARE THEY? WHAT CAUSES THEM?

hin splints…what exactly are they? Well, that is an interesting question. In general, it has become a wastebasket term for leg or shin pain. It originated as a lay term that was adopted by the medical professional due to its common use. More recently it has been noted to be a “nonspeciﬁc term used to describe exertional lower leg pain from almost any cause.” In general, shin splints are pain in the medial (inside or towards the midline) and posterior (towards the back) of the mid third of the tibia (shin bone). For the purposes of this article I am going to focus on leg pain not caused by stress fracture or compartment syndrome. Shin splints occur in up to 13.1% of runners. There are many theories regarding the origin of shin splints. 60% of those presenting with shin splints have problems in their training routine. Most commonly, symptoms begin after a rapid increase in training of

duration, intensity, increased hill training or frequency of training. Changes in training surface and shoe problems, either worn out shoes, inappropriate shoe wear or a change in shoe wear can be the source of the problem, as well. Poor technique and warm up, poor calf ﬂexibility and excessive foot pronation can also be contributing factors. So, what causes the pain? Well, we aren’t really sure, but there are several theories. One theory is that of periostitis, or inﬂammation of the periosteum (the covering of the bone). This may be caused by the muscles, tendons, or connective tissue pulling excessively hard on their attachment to the bone. The pain is most likely boney in origin whether it comes from the periosteum, or the bone itself. Athletes with shin splints were studied and found to have less bone mineral than others in their age group without pain. What does

that mean? Basically there was less bone mineral (calcium) in the bone or osteopenia. Another possible cause for shin splints is that as training increases there is a stress reaction of the bone. When bones heal, the body basically (very basically) takes away bone (makes it osteopenic) before laying down new bone. So what do you do when you have shin splints? First, look at your training. Have you just changed your program in some way that could cause an injury? Second, look at your shoes. Are they worn out? Third, look at your body. Are your calves too tight? Are you over-pronating? Where is the pain? The basic treatment for shin splints is relative rest, stretching, strengthening, ice massage and perhaps anti-inﬂammatory medication to start. If these simple steps do not relieve the pain after a few weeks, consider seeing a sports medicine physician. They can

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help you evaluate your pain and can recommend the most appropriate course of treatment. It could be as simple as making a few slight modiﬁcations to your training. You may need to have an orthotic (shoe insert) made, especially if you are over-pronating. Bracing can sometimes speed recovery. When training is resumed, remember to start at 50% of what your previous intensity and distance were and increase only 10% per week. Most people recover from shin splints with conservative care.

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

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

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(813) 490-1393 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 102

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 103

EXTRA

AUTO REVIEW

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Story by Brian West Photos courtesy of Nissan

New Pathﬁnder Leads the Way PATHFINDER IS LATEST TO RECEIVE UPDATED LOOK

he decision makers at Nissan continue to get it right, and the new Pathfinder is the latest proof. The Pathfinder entered Nissan’s lineup in the 1980’s and remained, although it didn’t perform well compared to others in its class. Today things have changed. The Pathfinder received its latest styling makeover two years ago, and the new look is showing returns at the dealership. Sales have increased due to greater customer satisfaction: a better vehicle, better performance, with an up-to-date look that fits in with the balance of the Nissan lineup. The Pathfinder comes equipped with a 266-hp 4.0-L V6 that provides ample power on the road and up to 6,000 pounds of maximum towing capacity. This should be more than enough to handle even the most demanding tasks the average consumer might encounter. This motor is actually the same motor used in several other Nissan vehicles, including the Maxima, just tweaked slightly different. Nissan found efficiencies in the design and production of their lineup by limiting the number of different engines offered. The 2007 Pathfinder is available in four different models; S, SE, SE

Off-Road, and the LE, and a myriad of fresh new colors. White and silver seem to be the popular choices; at least that’s what I see on the road most often. The biggest differences between these models are the look and feel of the vehicle. The SE Off-Road version has some features speciﬁcally designed around the performance and capability that set it apart – hill descent control and performance shocks – but otherwise, they’re basically the same chassis, engine and transmission. On the exterior, the new Pathﬁnder has taken a quantum leap from its previous body style. The front end is stamped with the now, trademark, front bumper on all Nissan vehicles.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 104

Equipped with larger wheels and tires, the Pathfinder offers a smooth ride for driver and passengers. And the blunt edges of the old body style have been softened quite a bit. It’s much more appealing than the previous version. On the interior, the Pathfinder is exactly what you’d expect; upright seating and comfortable room for five adults. Add in the standard 3rd row seat and you have seating for seven. And this 3rd row seat folds completely flat into the storage area, which means more room to carry your stuff. Depending on the model you choose, you can have your choice of interiors covers; traditional cloth/canvas or leather, and a very basic trim package, or wood grain accents. The layout of the dash is ergonomically friendly. The gauges in the dash could be a little larger and the mirror controls should be on the door, rather than low on the dash to the left of the steering wheel, but otherwise everything is right where you’d want it.

The pathfinder handles very well. The ride is tight and interior noise is almost non-existent. I was able to do quite a bit of driving; both highway and city streets. The V6 engine is perfectly matched to the Pathfinder. It’s as much as you could want without being too much. If you’re a Maxima owner or you have experience with the Maxima, think of the sensations you get – they’re the same with the Pathfinder, you’re just sitting higher off the road. The sticker on the model I drove was $35,360. It was an LE model with all the bells and whistles. The warning I’d give you is that once you’ve had a vehicle with leather interior, understand that you may never want a cloth interior again. If you’re interested in the new Pathfinder, visit Jenkins Nissan in Lakeland. They’ll be happy to help you find just the one for you. And don’t forget to tell them that you read about the Pathfinder in Focus Magazine.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 105

EXTRA

AL RUECHEL

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By Al Ruechel

Sucked in by the Net O

This, my friends, is the state of the Internet in 2007. They promise you anything and everything from laptops to 500-dollar gift cards for answering a few questions. Nerts! These aren’t surveys; these are door-to-door salesmen, junk mail, unsolicited telemarketers, used car or insurance salesmen, lawyers and game show hosts sliming their way onto my computer.

kay, now I’m ticked. It says, and I quote, “For a free sample of ________ just fill out a short 10 question survey.” So I fill out my name and mailing address and answer the ten questions. These are difficult questions. Do you smoke? Do you have any pets in your house? Do you travel often? Are you thinking of refinancing? Blah-blah-blah. Last question, hit the button that says thanks…your free sample is on the way. You’ve done this, haven’t you? Hit the button and another stinking survey shows up with another 10 questions about different products. I say no to all of them. Up pops a little message board: In order to qualify for the free ______sample you must accept at least one offer on this page. Didn’t you tell me on the front page all I had to do was answer 10 questions and I’d get the sample? I mean, I’m not trying to win a free Ipod or a free laptop; it’s a stinking tooth whitener!

male enlargements in the same e-mail. Hello!!!!!!! I have no interest in dating or chat rooms or 50 levels of compatibility and that other garbage because I’ve been happily married for 31 years and hope to reach 75 years before it’s all over, you loser!

Yes, I asked for it. I’m the idiot who opened the e-mail and was sucker enough to think I was going to get something for nothing. Still, it amazes me how American business can take something that can produce and be used for so much good and ruin it with schlock.

And how about that guy from Nigeria? You know, the one who has several million dollars that was left to him and he would like to share it with you if you’ll just provide him a bank account number? Do I resemble a rutabaga? Don’t answer that question. You know, there was a guy out west who lost over 100-thousand dollars to that scam just last week.

On a daily basis I have over 500 e-mail offers sent to my computer. Oh, and the ones I really love come from the porn industry. They can’t seem to ﬁgure out if “Al” is a man or a woman. I get offers for female breast enlargements and other

Here’s the amazing part, according to a Bank of America spokesperson, there are hundreds of people every day that do fall for these “nutso” scams. They have their identities stolen and worse, yet they lose lots of money to scam artists who

are always one step ahead of the good guys. Shout it loudly, now! Banks NEVER ask for your account numbers or private information in an e-mail. N-E-V-E-R! No, the way I handle this intrusion into my private life and the lies that often entice me to do stupid things, like respond to those “free offers”, is to write columns like this one warning you not to do the same thing. I also enjoy sending “stupid crook” responses back to the senders of this garbage. I know, by even replying to them I am opening myself to even more Internet misery. Still, describing in detail how I am going to burn and torture every living descendant of the people sending me these so-called “phishing” offers does satisfy the inner “animal” man in me. Argh!! I feel soooooo much better now!

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 106

djacent to Walden Lakes Country Club, this quaint neighborhood of only 52 gorgeous home sites is the perfect family living choice. See Paragon Homes’ impressive architectural touches and exceptional standard features. These include large home sites with brick paver driveways and front porches, three-car garages, bonus room options and more. Perfect for those who simply demand added value. Homes from the mid- $300’s.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 107

EXTRA

TRAVEL

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Story & Photos courtesy of Buena Vista Watersports

Orlando’s Ultimate Watersports Experience BUENA VISTA WATERSPORTS

uena Vista Watersports is a privately owned recreational water sports facility located on Lake Bryan, in the Lake Buena Vista area of Orlando. This tropical playground offers glistening waters on a secluded, natural spring fed lake, with white sandy beaches, lush tropical foliage, surrounded by cypress trees. Life’s a beach party at Buena Vista Watersports. Waterski, wake-board, knee-board and tube charters are available, as well as Sea-doo rentals for your enjoyment.

Events & Parties Looking for an evening of tropical fun in Orlando? Paradise Cove at Buena Vista Watersports is a unique venue to hold your company picnic or corporate event. It is a tropical, lakefront, Key West-style facility, complete with tiki bar, tiki pavilion, torches, palm trees, and surrounded by Cypress trees to give it a Floridian feel. This private lake retains Florida’s natural look, a tropical treasure hidden away from mainstream tourism. Let your imagination run wild, Paradise Cove can help you plan

any themed or team-building event. You can have company picnics with or without water sports. Some fun things that can be offered to your guests are Polynesian dancers or ﬁre dancers, evening boat rides complete with captain for a star-studded lake cruise, and Calypso, Reggae or Jimmy Buffet-style music. You can participate in our famous beach past time, crab-racing. Or you may prefer night volleyball, watching a sand sculpture artist, beach bum stilt-walkers or alligator wrestling.

Weddings Your Special Day A once in a lifetime event calls for an exceptional romantic setting. Paradise Cove at Buena Vista Watersports can provide a beautiful lakeside ceremony complete with a white, sandy beach and swaying palms. Whether you’re envisioning a formal black-tie luau with ice carvings and a strolling steel drum trio, or a casual barefoot barbeque complete with jet skis and boats; we can customize your wedding within any budget so you can relax and enjoy your special day!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 108

Your Lakeside Ceremony at Paradise Cove at Buena Vista Watersports includes a decorated archway and use of brick patio or white sand beach for your ceremony site. It also includes set-up and tear-down of ceremony location. Then celebrate with an outdoor reception under the beach pavilion at Paradise Cove. This includes four hours of facility rental, tiki torches and ambience lighting of palm trees, volleyball net and sand court, and use of tiki bar for bar set-up time prior to your ceremony.

vendors for you and then handling all details with them prior to the wedding event.

A catering tent with two hours of set-up time prior to your ceremony start and one hour tear down time after your event ends will also be provided, as well as private parking, restroom facilities, decking area for dancing and dinner set-up, and rental of 10 tables and 100 resin chairs. So let our wedding coordinators customize your special day!

Paradise Cove at Buena Vista Watersports is centrally located between International Drive and Disney. All events are totally customized for daytime or evening scenarios. For more information, call us at 1-407-239-6939 or email info@bvwatersports.com.

In addition, if you would like assistance, we are able to arrange other services for you such as photography, videography, ﬂoral, musicians, DJs, etc. We can either make recommendations for you, or we can alleviate most of the stress of planning on your part by arranging and contracting these

If the idea of a stress-free event appeals to you, we can provide coordination services as well. Please let us know if you would like more information on a dayof coordinator, or a full-service coordinator to help you plan the event and pull all the details together. This allows you to sit back and enjoy the day, knowing that experience is working behind the scenes on your behalf.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 109

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 110

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

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 111

D&E

DINING REVIEW

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Story by Sophia Dedon Photos by Sophia Dedon and Sandra Hudson

Espress Yourself: Coﬀee 101 PLANT CITY FINALLY HAS A COFFEE SHOP!

or many in Plant City, walking into Coffee 101 is simply a breath of fresh air. This community is well overdue for a local coffee shop with such a relaxing atmosphere. Owners Heather and Jonathan Davis put over a year’s worth of effort and research to make this the ideal place for coffee lovers in Plant City. From the moment you walk in the door, the ﬁrst aspect that grabs your attention is the environment. Heather traveled across the country, from Seattle to Atlanta, to ﬁnd what other successful coffee shops have done, so she could bring the best

quality to Plant City. Whether it is the detail of the décor or the aroma of espressos, Coffee 101 is the type of place you want to come relax while drinking your favorite latte or cappuccino and surﬁng the net using the free Wi-Fi. Regardless of which type of coffee craving you may have, your taste buds will certainly be satiated at Coffee 101. They use the highest quality products to bring you everything from macchiatos to lattes. For anyone who may not be much of a coffee drinker, they have a wide variety of specialty teas to select from, as well as smoothies.

Espresso shots add a kick to any drink if you’re looking for coﬀee ﬂavor

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 112

If you are in a mood to splurge on calories, then you need to come to Coffee 101 to satisfy your sweet tooth craving. They have a very wide selection of pastries, all made from scratch. Chef Michael Ostrander out of Tampa bakes all of the specialty goods. From apple strudel to flaky croissants, expect to be amazed at the delicious flavor of all their pastries. Not only is Chef Michael extremely talented, but his resume includes impressive accomplishments from being Donald Trump’s baker to baking cakes for European royalty. After taste testing products from all over, many of the items they use support local businesses. Their lunch specialty, chicken salad on a croissant, uses chicken salad made by the former owner of Andrews on the Park, a favorite of many people in town. From St. Pete to Tampa to Valrico, many of the fine-quality products are produced right here in Tampa Bay. Entertainment isn’t lacking either from this small town hang-out. Friday nights are open mic nights, where local artists can come to show off their talents. Frequently,

they bring in a special artist for Saturday nights to enhance the atmosphere while customers socialize and drink their coffees. People of all ages seem to ﬁnd Coffee 101 a favorite place to frequent. In the mornings, you will ﬁnd business people on their laptops with their coffee as they begin another day of work. After school, students come to study for upcoming tests or just play a board game with their friends at one of the tables. Coffee 101 is more than just great drinks and desserts; it’s a place where you simply want to spend your time. If you haven’t already, come check out Coffee 101 the next time you are passing through downtown Plant City.

CRITICAL INFO

Coﬀee 101 101 E. J Arden Mays Blvd Plant City, FL 33563 813-659-0101 espressyourself101.com Prices range $1.50-$5.25 Accepts all major credit cards

The atmosphere at Coﬀee 101 is ideal for anyone looking to relax

Join us for our Sunday Family Reunion Buffet The Lakeland Location Is Now Open On Sundays From 8am - 3pm

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1401 W. Dr. MLK Blvd. Plant City, Fl. 813-752-7763 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 113

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�� FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 114

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 115

D&E

ENTERTAINMENT

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Story by Bob Hughens Photos by Bob Hughens and J.A.M.S. Entertainment

Second Wind Rocks the House

A MAGICAL NIGHT OF MUSIC AT THE RAMADA INN PLANTATION HOUSE choice to be the female member of Second Wind. Her ability to perform music from any genre with ﬂair and excitement makes her the perfect choice to round out the trio.

Ralph and Mellissa harmonize for the enjoyment of the guests

he Red Rose Dining Room was the place to be March 3rd for an electrifying performance by one of the area’s most exciting new groups called Second Wind. Second Wind is a Las Vegas style musical group and is the creation of Ralph Allocco, one of the Tampa Bay area’s most popular performers. Second Wind was formed in December 2006 after Ralph ended a long relationship with another of the area’s biggest musical groups, Rat Pack Too. The group is comprised of Ralph, Mellissa Malone and James Scoﬁeld, whom Ralph hand-picked to make up this won-

James Scoﬁeld enjoys the company of two ladies from the audience

The curtain went up for Second Wind at 8:00 p.m. and a magical night of great musical entertainment began. The trio came out and did an intro together and then began a musical set that lasted for three hours, culminating at 11:00 p.m. without a single break. It was non-stop entertainment all night with the group taking turns belting out song after song from a myriad of musical eras.

derfully talented group. Ralph began his musical career at a very early age. Born in Brooklyn, he would listen to the music of the Italian crooners from the old records his mother would play. As Ralph got older, his love for the 40’s and 50’s era continued, but he also learned to love the groups of the 60’s and 70’s. That love is found in the musical selections the group performs throughout their show. James Scofield went to work for Ralph’s entertainment company several years ago and it was there Ralph recognized James’ talents and gave him his big chance. This writer has personally worked with James on a previous musical production and I can tell you first hand that he continues to develop his gift as a very talented musical performer. Mellissa Malone was the first female singer of the Rat Pack Too group and Ralph knew the talent she possessed, so it was Mellissa who was Ralph’s first and only

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 116

Mellissa performed a wide selection of songs ranging from Aretha Franklin (“Respect” and “You make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman”), Donna Summer (“Hot Stuff”), Pointer Sisters (“We are Family”) to the country singer, Gretchen Wilson (“Redneck Woman” and “All Jacked Up”). Her diverse style matches any type of music she chooses to perform and she is so wonderful to listen to. James also performed an entourage of songs which extended from the ”zoot suit” era in the 40’s through the 70’s Motown era. His rendition of “Treat Her Like A Lady” by the Cornelius Brothers and Sister Rose was one of my favorites. James’ real talent lies in his ability to relive the old days and bring out the excitement of the music of the big band swing era. Ralph is the consummate professional

entertainer. He draws you into his world as you feel and experience his emotions through his music. He sings any kind of music you can think of, ranging from the Italian crooners that I mentioned earlier to the Bobby Darin and Dean Martin era to the lyrics of David Clayton Thomas and “Blood, Sweat and Tears”. Ralph sings it all. The style and class of great entertainment that is synonymous with the Ramada Inn Plantation House has been enhanced by the arrival of Second Wind. The group can be seen performing on Friday or Saturday nights. Ralph also sings solo between sets of the musical group, Destiny, on Thursday nights. Make your reservations by calling (813) 752-3141 for a wonderful night of great food, service and entertainment.

Evelyn Madonia (right) enjoying the company of one in attendance at the festivities

Couples enjoy the music as Ralph serenades their steps

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 117

D&E

Collins Produce ��

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DINING GUIDE

Bobs Sports Grill 226 Alexander St W. 719-8187 Coﬀee 101 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. 659-0101 Fred’s Market Restaurant 1401 W Dr MLK Blvd 752-7763 Grandpa Johnsons BBQ 1305 Dr MLK Jr Blvd 759-0009 Kazbor’s Grille 2212 James Redman Pkwy 752-2700 Linda’s Crab Shack 202 Reynolds E 754-0492 Maryland Fried Chicken 315 N Alexander 752-9200

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OPEN 8 DAYS A WEEK

Munchies 1707 James Redman Pkwy 757-5900 Olde Town Pizzeria 3011 James Redman Pkwy 752-5800 Orange Blossom Tea Room 106 Evers St S 759-2247 Ramada Inn Red Rose Dining Room 2011 N Wheeler St 752-3141 Snellgrove’s Restaurant 109 S Collins 752-3652 Strawberry Town 3161 Paul Buchman Hwy 754-8265 Sub Club 110 E Reynolds St, Suite 500 707-8606 Whistle Stop Café 102 S Collins 752-7340 Woody’s Bar-B-Q 203 Alexander St W 754-3229

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 118

To place your ad here call 813.707.8783

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 119

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 120

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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 4/21/07

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

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 121

PLANT CITY March 15, Thursday: The South Florida Baptist Hospital will be hosting a free Osteoporosis test from 9 a.m. to noon. The test includes a noninvasive test of bone strength and density by heel scan. The test is recommended for women age 45 and older, and post-menopausal women under 65 with one or more risk factors. For more information call 813754-4444.

March 16, Friday: Plant City Recreation & Parks Department is currently taking registration for the upcoming Co-Ed Volleyball & Dodge Ball League. The registrations will go through Friday, March 30. Seasons start the week of April 11th. The registration fee is $125 for Volleyball (games on Wednesday nights) and $150 for Dodge Ball (games on Friday nights). Signups will be held at the Plant City Recreation & Parks Administration building (1904 S. Park Rd) Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. All games will be played at the Plant City YMCA. For more information please contact Larry Langston at 813659-4200 ext. 4302 or by email at llangston@plantcitygov.com. The South Florida Baptist Hospital will be hosting a free skin cancer test from 9 a.m. to noon. Test includes an examination of skin for suspicious moles or lesions and is recommended for men and women age 20 and over. For more information call 813754-4444. All golfers are invited to attend United Food Bank’s & Services of Plant City’s Second Annual Golf Tournament at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. Proceeds from the tournament beneﬁt the United Food Bank. Registration

begins at noon and tee-off is 1:00 p.m. Dinner will be served following the tournament. Trophies and prizes will be awarded in various categories. For more information, contact John McCaughey at 813757-9110. Award Winners Jerry Goff & Lil’ Jan Buckner will be playing at the Gospel Sing at 7:00 pm at Mount Zion Assembly of God. This exciting Christian Music performance will include the group’s national hits that have won them a People’s Choice and Dove Award, as well as a Grammy nomination. The event will be held at Mount Zion Assembly of God at 7:00 pm at 3005 Thonotosassa Rd. For more information call 81307521614. Plant City Recreation & Parks Department will be hosting a Teen Night at the Planteen Recreation center for teens ages 12-15 (Middle School). The event will include pizza, music and fun from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. For more information, call Planteen Recreation Supervisor, Christine Washburn at 813-757-9166 during the day or email her at cwashburn@plantcitygov.com. The A-2 Level Square Dance Special Weekend with Lee Kopman will take place this weekend, March 16th, 17th, and 18th. For more information call 813-7520491 or visit www.ﬂoridadanceweb.com/strawberry. Plant City Adult & Community Schools is offering classes for Certiﬁed Nursing Assistant, Computer, Cosmetology, Conversational Spanish, Drawing, Pottery, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Classes and More. G.E.D. Day Classes for 16 and 17 year old students as well as Night and Online G.E.D. classes for students 18 and older are offered, with no fee. They offer the G.E.D. test each month, for a fee. They also offer Cosmetology

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 122

Event Calendar salon services Tues. and Thurs., 3:30-7:00 p.m. Walk-ins only. Please call Janice Stewart at (813) 707-7147 for more information. Deadline for ticket purchases for the Fundraiser Luncheon at Carrabba’s is today to support the project, Making Dreams Come True, a scholarship program for kids who have been identiﬁed with cancer and who live and will attend college in Florida. The doors for the project will be opened at 11:30 a.m. on March 23 for the luncheon and no tickets will be sold at the door. The luncheon will include an informal modeling of Weekender Fashions and Premier Jewelry and will include Chicken Marsala, a side of pasta, beverage and dessert. Seating is limited. Tickets may be purchased for $20.00 from club members or by calling Alise Sollenberger, 6593397 or Marilyn Day 659-9504.

March 17, Saturday: The long running and ever popular Strawberry Classic Car show takes place Saturday from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Spectators can see cars and trucks manufactured in 1982 and before- antiques, customs, classics and hotrods - in and around McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. Entertainment will be provided and nearby specialty shops and restaurants will be open late for the event. Attendees also have the opportunity to visit vendors and crafters for the latest in automotive accessories. Admission and registration for the car show is free. Parking is available on surrounding streets. For more information, contact the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at 813-754-3707 or log onto www.plantcity.org. The Mystics will be in performance at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8:00

pm. For reservations call 8137752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com. The South Florida Baptist Hospital will be hosting Prostate exams from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is free but requires registration and will be located in the Administration Conference Room. For more information call 813-754-4444. The Fourth Annual Berry Boogie 5K and Mile Run/Walk will be held at Mike Sansone Park. The 5K will start at 8:00 a.m., The Fun Run/Walk at 9:00 a.m., and the Kid’s Races (ages 5-10) at 9:30 a.m. For more information contact Deborah Haldane at (813) 659-4200 ext. 4343 or by email at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com. The Last day for blood proﬁles will be held at the South Florida Baptist Hospital from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is $20 and includes lipid panel, complete metabolic proﬁle and blood count. For more information or to make an appointment, call 813-7544444. The Monthly Kid’s Night Out will take place at the Planteen Recreation Center for children ages 6-11 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm. The cost is $5 per child and includes three hours of chaperoned evening activities including watching movies, playing games, doing crafts and eating pizza. Children are encouraged to bring a blanket, a friend, an appetite, and enthusiasm. If you have any questions about the monthly Kid’s Night Out, call the Planteen Recreation Supervisor, Christine Washburn at 813-757-9166 during the day or email her at cwashburn@plantcitygov.com. The South Florida Baptist Hospital is hosting a CT Heart Score from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is

PLANT CITY $100, reduced from the normal cost of $300 and will detect plaque in arteries, a risk factor for heart disease. For more information or to make an appointment, call 813-754-4444.

will be calling. The dance will be held at Strawberry Square, 4401 Boot Bay Rd. in Plant City. For more information call 813-7520491 or visit www.ﬂoridadanceweb.com/strawberry.

The drop-in 80th birthday celebration for Dr. “Hal” Brewer will be held at the Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., 119 North Collins Street, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Cake cutting will be at 7:00 p.m. You are cordially invited to stop by to wish Dr. Hal a happy birthday. The Brewer family has requested “No gifts, please.”

March 22, Thursday:

March 18-22, Sunday-Thursday: St. Clement Catholic Church will be holding a Lenten Mission, beginning at 3:00 p.m. on the 18th and 6:30 p.m. on the 19th-22nd. For more information, call (813) 752-8251.

March 19, Monday: Walden Lake Golf and Country Club will be hosting an Easter Golf Camp until March 22nd. The price is $150 per student, with a discount for a second student. The camp will be in divisions: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Tournament Players. For more information please visit www.gibsongolfacademy.net. The South Florida Baptist Hospital will be hosting Car Seat Safety Checks from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will also take place on April 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is free but requires registration. To register for the class or for more information call 813-7544444.

March 21, Wednesday: The Mainstream/Plus Level Square Dance will be having a Hawaiian Party from 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. and Dick Duckham

This month’s bus trip for the H.A.W.K.S. (Happy Adventurous Wise Knowledgeable Seniors) is headed to The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers to the matinee performance of “Damn Yankees.” This trip is $40 per person and includes the meal, the show, gratuity and transportation. The bus leaves at 8:30 a.m. and returns around 6:00 p.m. to the Planteen Recreation Center. All trips have limited availability and are on a ﬁrst come-ﬁrst served basis. To get your name on the mailing list or for more information, contact Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com or call her at (813) 659-4200 ext. 4343. The South Florida Baptist Hospital will be hosting Baby Care Classes from 7 to 9 p.m. this evening and also on April 14th from 1p.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is free but requires registration and will be located in the Administration Conference Room. To register for the class, or for more information call 813-754-4444.

March 23, Friday: The A-2 Level Square Dance will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Jimmy Lee, from Ontario, Canada will be calling. The Cuers will be Jimmy and Carol Grifﬁn. The dance will be held at Strawberry Square, 4401 Boot Bay Rd. in Plant City. For more information call 813-752-0491 or visit www.ﬂoridadanceweb. com/strawberry.

March 24, Saturday:

Event Calendar For a hand-clappin’, foot stompin’ good time, plan to see the Florida Opry show at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins Street. The show stars Dusty Owens. Tickets can be reserved for $12 by calling Myrle Henry at 813-752-4094, or they may be purchased, if available, at the door for $15. Free parking is available on surrounding streets. The Bachelors will be in performance at the Ramada Inn Plantation House in the Red Rose Dining Room beginning at 8:00 pm. For reservations call 8137752-3141 or visit the website at www.RamadaPlantation.com. The Regional Church Library Strawberry Sampler will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Plant City. Program speakers will include Diane and David Manson, the authors of Christian fiction mystery books and Jan Moye, State Library approved worker. A Lifeway Resources representative will be onsite with new books and materials of interest during the lunch break. Lunch will be provided at a cost of $5, which will include strawberry shortcake. Make your reservation by March 19th by calling the church at (813) 752-4104 or by emailing library@fbcpc.com. The Plus Level Square Dance will be having a Hawaiian Party from 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Jimmy Lee from Ontario, Canada will be calling and Jimmy and Carol Griffin will be cueing. The dance will be held at Strawberry Square, 4401 Boot Bay Rd. in Plant City. For more information call 813-7520491 or visit www.floridadanceweb.com/strawberry.

March 29, Thursday: The South Florida Baptist Hospital will be hosting Breastfeeding Classes from 7 pm to 9 p.m. this

evening and also on April 14th from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. The cost is free but requires registration and will be located in the Administration Conference Room. To register for the class, or for more information call 813-754-4444.

March 30, Friday: The Plant City YMCA is hosting a Teen Techno Dance Party from 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. for teens 10 – 15 years of age. The cost is $6 per person and includes food, drinks, DJ, dancing, basketball, a climbing wall, and racquetball. For more information regarding the event, contact Sarah Vincent at 813-263-6097 or email her at sarah.vincent@tampaymca.org.

March 31, Saturday: First Baptist Church of Plant City will hold an egg drop for kids ages 2-11 at their South Campus on Highway 39 across from Sparkman Road. 10,000 eggs will be dropped from a helicopter; moon bounce, face painting, balloons, prizes and free food for kids all promise to make this event a great one! For more information, call (813) 752-4104. First Presbyterian Church is having a “Junque and Treasure” sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Items include Children’s Furniture, Children’s Play Equipment, Furniture, Sporting Goods, Jewelry, and Misc. Items. Proceeds go to the “Raisin’ the Roof” Fund (re-roofing the Sanctuary). The event is located on 404 Reynolds, entering Schneider Hall from Thomas Street on the east side of the Church. For more information call The First Presbyterian Church at (813) 752-4211.

April 1, Sunday: The Caller’s Association Beginning Mainstream Level Square

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 123

PLANT CITY Dance Ball will be from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. with various callers. The dance will be held at Strawberry Square, 4401 Boot Bay Rd. in Plant City. For more information call 813-752-0491 or visit www.ﬂoridadanceweb. com/strawberry

proceeds go to the American Cancer Society for research and programs. Please contact Natalie Sweet at (813) 758-9586 if you are interested in participating in this fun event.

April 3, Tuesday:

The South Florida Baptist Hospital will be hosting CPR Classes for Healthcare providers from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for new certiﬁcations. The cost is $38 and requires pre-payment a and registration and will be located in the Community Conference Room. To register for the class or for more information call 813-754-4444.

The Book Club at Bruton Memorial Library will meet at 11:00 a.m. to discuss any book by the author Randy Wayne Wright. Copies will be available at the Circulation Desk. For more information on the Book Club, call the Bruton Memorial Library at (813) 7579215.

April 7, Saturday: The City of Plant City Recreation and Parks Department will hold their 18th Annual City Wide Easter Egg Hunt, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The events will be held at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex at 2602 East Cherry Street. Photos, free food, spacewalk, rock climbing and more will all be available for the kids. Kids, ages 3-11, remember to bring your own Easter basket! Plant City Church of God 1st Annual Egg-Stravaganza will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The event will feature an Easter egg hunt, moonwalk, face-painting, a Plant City Police K-9 demonstration, dunking booth, hot dogs and lots of fun! For more information, please call the church ofﬁce at (813) 752-4591. The Bike Fest will be held from 5-9 pm in Downtown Plant City. Call 813-754-3707 or visit www. plantcity.org for more information on the Bike Fest. The Friends of Jim Stevens Relay for Life Team will be holding a golf tournament at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. All

April 9, Monday:

April 10, Tuesday: A support group for caregivers of people with memory loss meets at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Plant City, 503 N. Palmer St., Room 140. Call Linda Bryant at (813) 754-3761 or Bill Barr at (813) 719-8392. Call the Alzheimer’s Association Florida Gulf Coast Chapter at (863) 292-9210 or 1-800-772-8672 if you need to arrange care for your loved one so you may attend.

April 13, Friday: Plant City Recreation & Parks Department will be hosting a Teen Night at the Planteen Recreation center for teens ages 12-15 (Middle School). The event will include pizza, music and fun from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. For more information, call Planteen Recreation Supervisor, Christine Washburn at 813-757-9166 during the day or email her at cwashburn@plantcitygov.com.

April 14, Saturday: The South Florida Baptist Hospital will be hosting Childbirth Classes from 8am to noon. The cost is free but requires registration and will be located in the Administration Conference Room. To

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 124

Event Calendar register for the class, or for more information call 813-754-4444.

RECURRING EVENTS: Mondays: Country/Western Dance classes are offered at the Planteen Recreation Center from 7:3010:00 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. Bruton Memorial Library is offering computer skill classes from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Registration begins one hour before the actual classes and is limited to 20 students. Classes teach anything from learning computer basics to learning to work with Windows and Word. For more information, contact Bruton Library at (813) 757-9215.

the muscles. For more information, call Gina at 813-950-0715.

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. 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: Ralph Allocco and Second Wind 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.

Tuesdays:

Saturdays:

Plant City Adult & Community School is offering Cosmetology Salon Services from 3:30 p.m.7:00 p.m. for Walk-Ins Only.

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.

Wednesdays: “Mommy and Me” playtime is available at the Planteen Recreation Center from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. for ages 2 and up. For more information, call Christ at 813-757-9166. Yoga is available with instructor Gina Belli at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6-7:00 p.m. The cost is $35 a month or $6 per class. Traditional Hatha Yoga will be taught with warm-ups, postures, relaxation, and nonstrenuous stretches that increase ﬂexibility, tone and strengthen

Yoga is available with instructor Gina Belli at the Winter Visitors Center (located adjacent to the Planteen) from 9-10:00 a.m. The cost is $35 a month or $6 per class. Traditional Hatha Yoga will be taught with Warm-ups, postures, relaxation, and nonstrenuous stretches that increase ﬂexibility, tone and strengthen the muscles. For more information, call Gina at 813-950-0715.

I S N OW

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 125

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 126

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION • March 15, 2007 - April 15, 2007 • PG 127