FOCUS Plant City 08-05 - May 2009 by Floyd Publications

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS iSSUe 8-5 - May 15 – JUne 15, 2009

Feature Every year it is one of the biggest events of its kind in Florida. It is a truly moving ceremony that contributes to helping the livelihood of millions of people. The Relay for Life is a fundraiser that brings people together who pitch in money to support cancer research. FOCUS was at this year’s event and took a lot of photos. So if you weren’t there, you can at least see who was and what happened.

LOCAL

Also, 2009 Strawberry Festival Queen Lauren Der has a new tea named after her. It is available at Camellia Tea Room and Gifts. More information is inside.

SPOTLIGHT

editor in chief Aaron Oberlin

credit manager Holly Dedon sales Sophia Hyde Tammy Simpson Adrienne Plati Lynne Warren Jane Waters production coordinator Susan Riff production Anthony Sassano Joe Pellegrino

Many people have eaten at his former restaurant, BuddyFreddy’s, and just about everyone has dined at his brother’s business, Fred’s Market. He spent several years as the supervisor of elections for Hillsborough County, and now he finds himself at a new point in life. Buddy Johnson spoke with FOCUS about his life growing up in Plant City and what the past decades have been like for him.

SPORTS & FITNESS

86 ENTERTAINMENT 98

Mike Storter’s battle with leukemia is one of ever-growing faith. He graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1993 with a master’s degree. But now, he says his faith has “gotten stronger.” His story is one that will touch the hearts of many.

This past month, patrons packed into Mexican restaurants to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, a Mexican holiday. For those who want the best in Mexican fare, Mi Casa offers top-notch food and service, and it has a festive atmosphere – perfect for celebrating Cinco de Mayo. Mother’s Day has come and gone, and every year the Red Rose Inn and Suites continues to amaze moms and their children with a five-star meal. Find out more.

ONTHECOVER

publisher Mike Floyd

office manager Dede Floyd

She is an intelligent girl. She is also athletic. She is Victoria Capezza, the valedictorian for this year’s graduating class at Plant City High School. Her story is here.

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

VICTORIA CAPEZZA PHOTO BY A. OBERLIN

editorial assistant Kevin Tall distribution Doug McGee Belva DeVane photographers Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser staff writers Cheryl Johnston Ruchelle Owens Tracy Cox Kasey Miller Carolyn Miller Brian West Joe Bowles Krystel Knowles Laura Estes contributors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Sherrie Mueller Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Natalie Sweet editorial intern Tanya Albert Michelle Stark Phil Neary

standards of accuracy The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-war ming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us. So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and infor m it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications. com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner. Readers who wish to respond to an article – not correct facts – can do so by writing a letter to the editor. If you need any other type of assistance, then please view the directory for the appropriate department. The staff at FOCUS Magazine is committed to serving their consumers and customers to the fullest of abilities. You’re paying attention to our words. Let us pay attention to yours.

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 editorial@floydpublications.com. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. FOCUS Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to FOCUS Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

published by:

floyd publications, Inc.

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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letter from

the editor

It’s an exciting time – a little scary and a lot of fun. It’s high school graduation, an event that closes one chapter in people’s lives and begins a new one. After the caps fly and the faculty says goodbye to the senior class, the summer officially kicks off. It is a period of graduation parties. It is a time to hang with people whom you’ve been friends with for years. But it is not all fun and games. It can be an emotional roller coaster – saying goodbye to cronies who are moving away to attend college, enjoying their company while they are still around, worrying about what you are going to study in college or what kind of job you will apply for; basically, just getting ready for the next stage in life. My last high-school summer ranks high on my memorable-moments list. When I wasn’t working, I was either on a boat, at a beach, or at a pool somewhere; anywhere my friends were. Yeah, I know, tough life. Hey, it is the final months of your life before you become a full-fledged adult. More than a thousand students from Plant City and Durant high schools will get to experience that this month, finding themselves in the same situation I was. My advice to them: Enjoy it. And I’m sure they will. Victoria Capezza is one of those students, but she is not your ordinary one. She is a scholar athlete – captain of the girls basketball team – and one who just so happens to be PCHS’s valedictorian. In roughly 10 years, she just might become your doctor. That’s right, she’s attending the University of Florida in the fall in hopes of becoming a doctor one day. Her story is in this month’s issue. Another person who is undergoing a major transition in life is Buddy Johnson. A former owner of the restaurant BuddyFreddy’s and supervisor of elections for Hillsborough County, he finds himself continually picking up newspapers with his name in the headlines. FOCUS decided to let him tell his side of the story in his own words. It is this month’s Spotlight interview. For a more extensive and unedited version of the interview, log on to thefocusmagazine.com and look in the video archives.

Aaron Oberlin Editor In Chief

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local talk of the town

Students at Turkey Creek Middle School participated in Olympic Day, which pitted students in competition against each other. Here, a young lady made an impressive throw in the shot put. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

There are thousands of mailboxes at the post office in downtown Plant City. With talks of closing the office, if it went through, then a numerous amount of people would have to relocate their mailing address – some of these people are poor and elderly and have little means of transportation. To help save the post office, go to the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, at 106 N. Evers St., and sign a petition to keep the branch open. The chamber’s phone number is (813) 7543707. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

Patty Gosselin won the Mother’s Day giveaway by Sister’s and Company. She is seen here with her daughter, Kaila, who nominated her by writing, “You can bet that my mom’s blow dryer is the first to go on in the mornings, all the way to her light being the last turned out at night. It is safe to say her energy is limitless and her sleep is minimal, and even safer to say that my mom is my best friend and someone I wish everyone could meet just once.” Sister’s and Company congratulates Patty Gosselin and thanks all the participants. “Everyone truly is a winner and deserves the very best,” said Devony Scott of Sister’s and Company.

Keel and Curley held its Blueberry Festival May 9-10. People from all around came to experience blueberry wine and the many vendors. Here, two children get ready to dig into the icees they just bought. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

The Florida Strawberry Festival held its annual Youth Livestock Banquet on April 16 in the Expo Building on the festival grounds. The livestock scholarships are made possible through the “Purchase a Sign Program.” The sign program generates revenue from local businesses that purchase advertising space on the grounds during the festival. Each scholarship is a $500 minimum. 2009 was a record-setting year with a total of 23 students becoming scholarship recipients. They are pictured here: Left to right (seated) are Sara Beth Newsome, Lacy Brower, MaHaley Smith, Caitlin Cribbs, Kayla Fullwood, and Jordan Butts. Left to right (standing) are Amy Lawhorn, Kayla Blake, Colton Hinson, Tim Shirley, Austin Salter, Byron Ratcliff, Ethan Cauley, Bryant Tindle, Summer Norris, Jerrod Parker, and Megan Layton. Not pictured are Deanna DeShong, Mitchell Varnum, Jamie Ham, Heather Layton, Devin Johnson, and Amy Bush.

local talk of the town Plant City resident Karen Gillman has been nominated for “Outstanding Small Business Leader of the Year Award,” a prestigious award given annually by the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce. And, the family business she helps manage, the Intelligent Office, located at 3111 Dr. W. Martin Luther King Blvd. Suite 100, in Tampa, was also nominated for the Greater Tampa Chamber’s “Small Business of the Year Award.” The Plant City Optimist Club held its annual Respect for Law Dinner at the Recreation and Parks Department administrative conference room on May 4. The event was to honor the Officer of the Year for the Plant City Police Department, Officer Dee Dee Gregory. Pictured are Law Chairman Terry Harnage, Mayor Rick Lott, Officer Dee Dee Gregory, Police Chief Bill McDaniel, and Optimist Club President Jeb Hicks.

“We are very honored to be nominated,” said Gillman, whose primary responsibility at Intelligent Office focuses on sales and client services. “Like any small business, we’ve faced many uphill battles over the years, and we are grateful to be recognized in this way. Our entire team is thrilled,” she said.

GOOD NEWS

Henry Falcon, the general manager of Sweetbay, dishes a plate for a guest at the 2009 YMCA Luau. There were several vendors giving away free food and drinks. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

There is still time to apply for the annual “Focus on you Makeover.” Deadline is May 21. Send letters in nominating someone you think deserves a makeover. Letters should be titled “Focus on you Makeover” and mailed to 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Entries can also be e-mailed to editorial@ Floydpublications.com. Write “Focus on you Makeover” in the subject line and send the entry in the body of the e-mail – please, no attachments.

foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

COFFEE BREAKS TAKEN TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

Espresso / Events / Art / Desserts / Fine Chocolate / Signature Drinks / Daily Papers

The Daily Grind & News is a haven for community residents to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee and a newspaper above and beyond their normal routine. The cafe offers a wide variety of specialty drinks and gourmet coffees as well as delicious pastries and cakes. Serving deli salads and sandwiches made with Boar's Head delicatessen products. along with an array of periodicals ranging from local favorites such as the Tampa Tribune to the Wall Street Journal. With a family-friendly atmosphere and a staff dedicated to quality customer service, this unique coffee shop

Cafe 813.747.3032 • 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd • Historic Downtown Plant City Hours: Mon-Thur 7am-9pm • Fri 7am-10pm • Sat 7am-10pm • Sun Closed

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Catastrophic Injuries Wrongful Death Auto & Motorcycle Accidents Insurance Claims Slip & Falls Injuries from Defective Products 24/7 Appointments • Free Hospital and Home Calls Credit Cards Accepted • Habla Español

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www.byrd-law.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based upon advertisements. Before choosing a lawyer ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

New school offers much to students S to r y by K e l ly P r i c e

With all East Hillsborough County high schools overcrowded, a new school, dubbed Strawberry Crest High School, is opening for the 20092010 school year. Come this fall, Strawberry Crest will accept a projected 1,221 students. Because the new school is located on Joe Newsome Road, in the Plant City area between McIntosh and North Gallagher Road, it will pull students from the Durant, Plant City, and Armwood zones. After Strawberry Crest opens in the fall, the affected schools will drop to under capacity; Durant will decrease to 77 percent, Plant City to 88 percent, and Armwood to 75 percent capacity. The portion of Durant students affected, a projected total of 294, are in the northwest corner of the previous

Durant boundaries. Strawberry Crest will also host students in the International Baccalaureate program, to which students apply as incoming freshmen. The IB program “offers students challenging programs of international education and rigorous assessment,” according to the school’s Web site. The new school’s regular-level and Honors-level curriculum will remain consistent with those of the other Hillsborough County schools. It will also offer 11 different advanced placement courses. The new school will also be “technologically savvy,” according to Strawberry Crest’s Assistant Principal for Curriculum Christina Raburn. Raburn said there will be computers in every classroom, as well as available

SmartBoards, DVD players, and flat -screen televisions. Strawberry Crest has many other unique features, such as a firefighting program, a culinary arts program, and a Tampa Electric Company-inspired alternative energy course. The alternative energy course, officially called the Academy of Green Construction and Alternative Energies, will be a science elective that encourages and teaches students ways to use alternative energies and live “green” lifestyles. Raburn also said that Strawberry Crest, as a whole, will emphasize a green lifestyle by having features such as recycling bins throughout the school and automatic, timed lights to conserve energy. The program offers students an “opportunity to learn about existing forms of energy and to explore sources of energy for the future,” according to Strawberry Crest’s Web site. The school-naming process was handled carefully; community input was key, according to Jennifer Faliero, a District 4 School Board member. “When I first learned of the name

The new Strawberry Crest High School is still under construction, but it is near to being finished. Photo by Greg McMaster

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Strawberry Crest, I didn’t think it would be a good idea for a high school,” Faliero said. However, after witnessing the importance of the strawberry to the Plant City community, Faliero said she “felt it was very appropriate to name it Strawberry Crest.” After the vote on the school’s name, the debate on mascot choice began, and the proposed “Strawberry Crest Chargers came out on top. An additional high school, named Steinbrenner High School, has been built for the ‘09-’10 school year. With these two new schools opening, more than 3,500 students are affected by the boundary changes in northeastern Hillsborough County. The county paid Seer Analytics $140,000 to draft boundary maps for the two new high schools. In these maps, Seer Analytics factored in such elements as transportation, ethnic diversity, and socioeconomic standings. The new school zones were chosen specifically by the superintendent based on parent and teacher feedback.

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local focus

Jessica Glover The PCHS 2009 salutatorian looks to further her education by learning how to combat diseases. S to r y by C h e r y l J o h n s to n

Jessica Renee Glover graduates this month as Plant City High School’s 2009 salutatorian. At the same time, she continues her studies as a junior at the University of South Florida in the Honors College. Obviously, education is a priority. Jessica is the daughter of Samuel and Robin Glover and sister to older brothers Stewart and Mark Glover. Her boyfriend of four years and great encourager is Mitchell Richardson, a USF sophomore majoring in computer engineering. In addition to college classes, she works at the Brandon Ice Sports Forum. Family is very important to Glover. Her desire to become a neurologist or oncologist was motivated by the fact that three family members are cancer survivors. Jessica hopes to make a difference in the medical field through research and treatment. Favorite subjects for Glover are biology, chemistry, and English. At PCHS, she has been inspired by Mrs. Rice, her AP language arts teacher and by Ms. Churchwell, a science and AP biology teacher. Of Ms. Churchwell, Jessica says, “She always believed in me as a student and took time not only to be a teacher, but a friend. Because of her, I continued to pursue AP courses and am now working toward two bachelor’s degrees in pre-medical sciences and business administration.” The business-minded Jessica realized the dual value of taking 11 Advanced Placement classes and 10 Dual Enrollment classes during high school. She graduates with a weighted 6.82 GPA and hopes to complete the two undergraduate degrees within three years. The cost savings will also stretch scholarship

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

monies to help with graduate degree expenses. Glover received scholarships from the USF National Merit Scholarship, Godbold Foundation, St. Petersburg Times Fund, Plant City Lions Club, Robert P. Brown Memorial, Rozale M. Smith, Iris and Hubert Allen, Public Education and Citizenship Award, Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan, Feldman Orthodontics, and the Hillsborough County Association of School Library

and Media Specialists. At PCHS, Glover enjoyed competing in soccer and volleyball, along with community service involvement, great friendships, and “completely random parties.” She spends her spare time at the beach, driving gokarts, or running in the park with her two dogs. Happy because her life is well-balanced, Glover looks forward to a five-year goal of being accepted to a top medical school where she can research Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Her 10-year plan is to gain employment at a hospital with a Level 1 Trauma Center or leading oncology department and eventually to be in private practice. Glover encourages her teen peers to “stay focused on what is beyond high school. Don’t allow yourself to get caught up in the moment to the point

where the highs and lows of high school define who you are as a person, now and in the future.” Her personal inspiration comes from those willing to take risks, such as Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Eleanor Roosevelt. Risktaking for Glover might include “being jailed for a just cause, or monetary investments in programs that will benefit the less fortunate in society.” Congratulations to the smiling, contented, and desiring-to-make-adifference Jessica Glover. Your hometown takes pride in your educational accomplishments and looks forward to the contributions you will make to our community and the world. Go for the cures.

Pictured here are Jessica Glover, PCHS salutatorian, and her boyfriend, Mitchell Richardson. Photo courtesy of Jessica Glover

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

Spectators from all across Florida came to the car show, including photographers who took advantage of the many photo ops. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

Classic cars lined the streets of downtown Plant City. Some of their owners popped their cars’ hoods to show off the restored engines. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

12 years of the Strawberry Classic Car Show S to r y by M at h i a s J o n e s

A time when strawberry farmers lined up outside the State Theatre for a movie on a Saturday night. An era when people got their groceries from the Growers’ Market in McCall Park. When strong family values stood steadfast in the hearts of most Americans. For many Plant City residents, those moments remain in their minds. A glimpse into that period manifested itself April 18 when nearly a thousand classical automobiles packed downtown Plant City for the 12th anniversary of the Strawberry Classic Car Show. Historic buildings housed restaurants and window-shopping for patrons, while automobiles roamed brick-laid roads and crossed over railroad tracks – an everyday occurrence for Plant City residents. Locals walked down the streets waving and saying “hello” to people they knew. And for those who attended the show who were not from Plant City, it was also a nostalgic moment. “I just saw a 1970 GTO. A 1970 GTO,” said George Perrin, who came all the way from Tampa to see the show. “I had a yellow one when I was in high school.”

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Henry. “So I proposed the idea: Why several people thought it would be don’t we have a car show? At that a good idea to have more shows, atThose who attended the anniversary time, in Florida, the only car show tract more people to the area, and ultimately benefit commerce in the show even listened to oldies music being held was over in Old Town.” Members of the association em- hub of the city. that at one time sat on the Billboard Now, people from all around Top 50 list: “Mr. Sandman,” “Come braced the idea, and that April the car on – A My House,” “Rock Around show began. All seemed well, but the Florida, not just Plant City, know the Clock.” And with vendors lining day of the show a bad storm hit, and about the show. “This year was the largest turnout the streets among the restored relics, many feared few would come to the it was sort of like a scene from “Happy show. That, however, was not the case. we’ve ever had,” said Al Collinge of Days” – except people ate Italian The inclement weather passed, and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. sausages and funnel cakes instead of then came a promenading crowd. With the event being successful, a shake with some fries. And in a way, that symbolizes the gradual changes the city has undergone. It is still the same city. It still has the same values. The city just looks a little different than it used to. And one of those changes is the car show. The idea for the event came from the efforts of the Historic Plant City Downtown Business and Merchants Association. Looking for a way to spur more business in the downtown area, the organization met monthly, said Myrle Henry, a member of the organization then. “I remember reading an article about small towns where the Lions Club had car shows, and they were quite successful,” said Two guys discuss the work done on an engine. It looks immaculate. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

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Corner of Martin Luther King Blvd., & McIntosh Rd. Dover, FL 33527 foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

PLANT CITY POPS SALUTE TO AMERICA S t o r y by t r a C y C ox

Conductor Mark Thielen directs the Imperial Symphony Orchestra during a concert at the Trinkle Center on April 28. Photo by MacKenzie Clark

The dynamic trio clapped, swayed, and even marched to the stirring patriotic music of the Imperial Symphony Orchestra as they performed for the Plant City Pops Salute to America on April 28 at the John R. Trinkle Center. Maida Pou, Betty Shearin, and Betty Jean Manee, guests of Dr. John and Sally Verner, enthusiastically supported the 80-member orchestra in its first appearance in Plant City. “Wasn’t that wonderful? We just had the best time,” said Pou, her eyes dancing with excitement. With a big smile, Shearin said, “I thought it was so fantastic.” “This was really good,” said Manee, happy that she had attended. The Arts Council of Plant City,

Hillsborough Community College, Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation, and the Plant City Photo Archives all helped sponsor the event. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation’s current fundraiser for the Veterans Memorial at Courier Field. Presenting the community-based orchestra, conductor Mark Thielen said, “What is so special about this orchestra is all of the people who make it so special. We are a family.” Thielen introduced Elaine Gleason, the last remaining original member of the orchestra since its foundation

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

local continued from page 22 in 1965. A flutist, she is credited by Thielen as being instrumental in the beginning with the formation of the string section. Members of the business community, music teachers, high school students, and retirees comprise the membership of the orchestra. The concert featured an arrangement by Thielen that included Irving Berlin’s “God Bless America,” made famous by songstress Kate Smith. Thielen brought the audience to their feet to sing along as the orchestra played “America the Beautiful.” “Hoedown from the Rodeo Ballet Suite,” a score by Aaron Copland, is another popular song that was played. Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces were asked to stand as they heard their military song played during the suite, “Armed Forces Salute.” The patriotic music series also included “From Sea to Shining Sea,” composed by Samuel Ward.

The musical evening also featured “Fanfare for the Common Man,” “The American Frontier,” and medleys saluting the Big Apple and Duke Ellington. The grand surprise of all was when Thielen called out for the president of Hillsborough Community College, Felix Haynes, to come to the stage to conduct the encore piece. “I think this was a great concert to bring here. This is the same concert that we play at Bok Tower,” Thielen said, after the concert had ended. “We want to build our support all over, including Plant City.” Information on the upcoming 2009-2010 concert season, which runs from October through March, is available at the symphony’s Web site, www.imperialsymphony.org. Catch more on this story on FOCUSTV at thefocusmagazine.com

These members of the 80-piece orchestra follow the music intently during their performance. Photo by MacKenzie Clark

foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

local focus

2009 Strawberry Festival Queen Lauren Der and Ellen Garrett, owner of Camellia Rose Tea Room and Gifts, hold tea named after Der: Lauren’s Berry Basket. It is available at Camellia Rose. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

Tea with the Queen S t o r y by E l i z a b e t h E d wa r d s

For centuries, people of all ages have celebrated “tea time” as a treasured event passed down through generations. What many of these people may not know, however, is how it feels to have a version of this distinguished pastime beverage named after them. This year’s Strawberry Festival Queen, Lauren Der, found out first hand how this honor feels. On April 25, the Camellia Rose Tea Room of Plant City hosted its first annual “Tea with the queen” event, where attendees got to experience tea and treats with a true local queen and her court. The ladies each sat at separate tables with guests and enjoyed conversing over tea and desserts. During the festivities, Der was presented with her newly trademarked tea, Lauren’s Berry Basket. The tea is a mixture of black and green tea blended with strawberry flavor. It has become a popular choice for patrons at the tearoom and a delightful addition to the store’s already vast collection of more than 50 unique tea blends, all loose-leaf. “I was thrilled when Ms. Sandee [Sytsma] told me,” said Der. “I think it’s just another great testament to how generous people in the community truly are to [the Florida Strawberry

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Festival queen and court].” At the end of the event, each of the court members stood up and spoke about themselves and their experiences. Guests then had the chance to ask questions and take pictures with the girls. The gathering was enjoyed by all who were present, including local faces from the Plant City community as well as residents of Lakeland, FishHawk, and beyond. Prior to Camellia Tea Room opening its doors in 2007, the Florida Strawberry Growers Association had created the theme Drop Red Gorgeous for the annual Strawberry Festival. The tea room decided to name a tea after the clever theme and package it in a special tin that depicts Plant City in the year 1910 and lists information about agriculture in the city. Ellen Garrett, founder of Camellia Tea Room, said they “started serving the tea during festival time and everyone loved it – iced or hot.” Camellia Tea Room then came up with the newfound tradition of blending a different tea annually to name after the year’s Strawberry Festival Queen. To buy some of the tea, call (813) 659-TCUP.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

The historic depot in downtown Plant City has a welcome center for visitors. People can peruse through several informative pamphlets, and there is a gift shop inside. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

A house of heritage

volunteer hours at the depot. He offers his time to educate people about the depot and its history. He said, besides the rest rooms, the depot is as it was in the early 1900s. The rooms inside have been modified a S to r y by a a r o n o b e r l i n little, such as the storage room – it now For many people in Plant City, it through Plant City. Amid the historic has benches to sit on instead of freight. Visitors can view an actual train is probably the most familiar sound buildings of the downtown district they hear each day – screeching stands a train depot that has stood schedule inside the depot. Some metal, a vociferous whistle, and metal since 1909 – a depot with a rich assort- trains are carrying oranges to New containers weighing more than a ton ment of history and facts that railroad York, while others are hauling cars rumbling around. buffs from around the nation come to in from Kentucky. To help people But for this quaint city, it is more see and learn. Officially added to the spectators grasp what they are seeing, than just the sound of steel rolling United States National Register of models freighters are set up for people on steel. It is more than the hum of Historic Places in 1975, the structure to analyze. For people who are more concerned freight being hauled to far away loca- today houses decades of heritage. tions. In a way it is a mantra, singing Inside, people can discover a wealth of about Plant City’s history alone, the a song that reveals the beginning of knowledge, such as Plant City as it was depot also houses information about economic growth for the people of in the early 1900s, and how the train the man who constructed the economic artery through the city – Plant this town. systems, then and now, work. More than 80 trains a day pass Jerry Honaker has more than 1,000 City’s namesake, Henry Plant.

On Palmer Street sits a structure rich in information.

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Now some might ask, “I thought strawberries were a major source of income for Plant City?” That is true, and rightfully so since the city is the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. But H.B. Plant provided a service that allowed the berries to be transported to all regions of the country. He built a rail system that connected Tampa to central Florida, giving access to the major railways. Without the rails, the strawberry industry would not be as lucrative in Plant City as it is. There are all kinds of interesting facts stored in the railroad station, so whether its history or railroads someone is interested in, Pant City’s historic depot has something for everyone. Catch more on this story on FOCUSTV at thefocusmagazine.com

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1505 South Alexander Street • Suite 102 • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.717.7700 foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

Community Expo attracts hundreds

The venue gave citizens a place to explore Plant City. S t o r y by M at h i a s J o n e s

The Verizon booth had a lot of cool gadgets with which to tinker. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

For those who have ever wondered where in town they need to go to find something, they should have attended the sixth Community Expo at the Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College. More than 65 vendors brought booths to display their products at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce event. There were free samples – the food samples were popular – and games for people to enjoy. “This is where, each year, we have the public come out and see the businesses and services that are offered in town,

so they know they don’t have to go out of town to get something,” said Marion Smith, president of the chamber. One of the booths that drew a crowd was the Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan display. People could throw darts at balloons, trying to pop them. If they did, they won a prize. “We think this is a wonderful event,” said Judy Barta, of Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan, about the expo. “We’ve done it every year now since the chamber has had it. We enjoy it, and it is very nice. It causes a

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local continued from page 28

This new Mustang, from Jarret-Scott Ford, drew a lot of attention at the Community Expo. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

lot of people to get together.” Everything from entertainment to services was present. The event, however, not only attracted hundreds of people from Plant City, but it also caught the attention of people in nearby cities. Jeanna Riggs is one of those people. She lives in Lakeland and came out to see what Plant City has to offer, and a blue Mustang from the Jarrett-Scott Ford display drew

her attention. “It’s a beautiful car,” said Riggs. “I love Mustangs. I’m thinking about buying one. It would be the perfect rebound car.” “[The event] has always been popular,” said Al Berry. “It gives the local merchants the opportunity to really expose their business to the people of the area.”

There was plenty of food to sample at the expo. Next year, bring your appetite. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

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WWW.healthceNterofplaNtcity.com foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

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Fashion funds A recent fashion show raised money for a charitable cause. S to r y by T r a c y C ox

She gracefully moved among her admirers as they reached out to touch her, showering her with compliments. She was in her element, whirling around, striking poses for them as they nodded with approval and in agreement that they wanted to look just like her. “Do I look like a heifer?” laughed Marilyn Day, as she strutted her stuff during the GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City’s Luncheon and Fashion Show fundraiser for Heifer International on April 25 at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Day, along with club members Alta Edgemon, Betty Astin, Esther Zeigler, Jean Ann Eatman, Jean Weaver, and Leslee Escobio modeled fashions from Sisters and Company, a boutique owned by Devony Scott and located in historic downtown Plant

Photo by Tracy Cox

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

City at 104 E. Reynolds St. “Never in all my years have I done this. It was my first fashion show and I enjoyed doing it for charity. Everybody was very gracious,” said Edgemon. In addition to the fashion show, the club held a silent auction of beautiful, themed gift baskets. The high bidders on the baskets were Beth Riggsbee – Baby and Evening baskets, Leslee – Tip to Toe Day Salon and Wine baskets, Missy Harvey – Purple Posey basket, Lynn Connor – Garden Vera basket, and Sheila Daye won the Wheelbarrow Garden basket, which was built by club member Sandra Lodato’s husband. A 50/50 raffle conducted by Esther paid out a prize of $100 to Mim Galloway. The total proceeds from the luncheon tickets, silent auction, and raffle raised $1,175 to donate to the global organization, which was founded in 1944 by Dan West, a relief worker for Church of the Brethren who was dedicated to ending hunger permanently by providing families with livestock and training. Since 1944, Heifer International has helped 8.5 million people in more than 128 countries by giving families a source of food rather than short-term relief. To learn more about Heifer International, visit www.heifer.org. The Plant City Woman’s Club, organized on January 29, 1922, is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, an international organization formed in 1890

Ladies modeled in fashion wear at Carrabba’s. Photo by Tracy Cox

and chartered in 1901 by the 56th Congress of the United States and the Florida Federated Woman’s Clubs. The club, through its six departments – Arts, Conservation, Education, Home Life, Public Affairs, and International Affairs – is dedicated to community improvement as well as for Florida, the nation, and the world by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. The Plant City club’s officers are: Lynn Connor – President, Jean Ann Eatman – 1st Vice President, Leslee Escobia – 2nd Vice President, Sandra Lodato – 3rd Vice President, Betty Astin – Treasurer, and Brenda Lauber – Recording Secretary.

The club is actively seeking new members, who are looking for connections to their community, interested in meeting new friends, and having opportunities for personal growth and enrichment through leadership training and development. Lunch meetings are held the second Tuesday of every month beginning at 10:30 a.m., starting in September and ending with a spring social in May. “This was my first time to a GFWC meeting. It was a real, real enjoyable luncheon, fashion show, and the food was really good,” said Ellany Johnson, a guest of member, Brenda Lauber.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

Belly dancing diva For Amber Ballinger, belly dancing is not just a hobby. S t o r y by K r y s t e l K n o w l e s

Amber Ballinger, a belly dance instructor, wears her sequined attire outside the 22nd annual Rainbow Ball. Photo by Krystel Knowles

Amber Ballinger, 38, is a belly dancer who likes to perform whenever she gets the chance. She started belly dancing ever since she was a child because her mother was a belly dancer. “My mother passed on to me the drive to belly dance and her knowledge,” said Ballinger. She currently teaches belly dancing to 20 professional level dancers and they get the opportunity to perform in public. “My students are like my children. The youngest professional belly dancer is 16 and she became part of our group since she was 12,” said Ballinger, adding that she enjoys teaching because she gets the opportunity to watch her students grow and become great dancers. Ballinger and her students performed at the Rainbow Ball at the Red Rose Inn for several hours. They performed with snakes, swords, and other show-captivating artifacts.

Ballinger’s students are so dedicated to this dance form that some of them traveled from Orlando and even Sarasota. Ballinger prides herself in teaching her students the true history of the dance and the traditional customs. “We are not just pretty girls, we actually know how this art form developed,” Ballinger said. Ballinger and her students enjoy dancing to the live music played by some of their husbands, the music interpretation through dance, and above all the ability to express themselves. “What I enjoy the most is the opportunity to wear the sequin attire and have people watch and appreciate my dancing,” Ballinger said. Have an interesting story? E-mail editorial and tell us your story. editorial@floydpublications.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

Knights Elementary School and CF Industries celebrate grand opening Urban wetlands reclamation project aims at protecting and rescuing environmentally sensitive resources in a varied ecosystem. Knights Elementary School and CF Industries presented the grand opening of the Knights Elementary P.R.E.S.E.R.V.E., which is a wetlands restoration and elevated boardwalk project, on May 8, at the school. The Knights Elementary P.R.E.S.E.R.V.E. is a collaborative wetlands restoration project between CF Industries and Knights Elementary School. Work began in 2005 when CF Industries and Linda Bailey, the school’s principal at that time, started restoration efforts for a wetlands area surrounding the school that had deteriorated into a dumping ground for trash, old tires, and scrap metal. CF Industries’ environmental and reclamation staff joined the efforts, contributing their knowledge of environmental and wetlands restoration. Throughout the project, the Knights Elementary staff and student body worked side-by-side with CF to remove the trash and nonnative vegetation that had suffocated the area, and to prepare the area for environmental repair. “We are absolutely delighted with this project, from the wetlands preservation and boardwalk installation to the development of our preserve-based curriculum,” said Janine Hall, principal of Knights Elementary School. “By visiting the Knights Elementary preserve, students will be provided with a memorable and first-hand learning experience that focuses on the importance of our environment.” After a nearly four-year long restoration and replanting process, the wetlands have finally been returned

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

to their natural functioning state. Although currently experiencing low water levels related to the region’s drought, wetlands like these have the ability to withstand cyclical changes to the environment and rehydrate when normal rainfall returns. In addition to the wetlands restoration, the project also features an elevated walkway that was constructed by CF Industries. This walkway will be used by students and teachers for field trips to observe and study the wetland ecosystem, and to learn about the importance of wetlands. “It is an honor for CF Industries to use our resources to provide new educational opportunities for the community, while at the same time working to protect and preserve Florida’s natural beauty and environment,” said Herschel Morris, CF Industries vice president of Florida phosphate operations. “If we can teach children the importance of preservation, it is our hope and belief that in the future they will become good stewards and caretakers of our wildlife, water, air, and land. We salute the vision and hard work of the Knights Elementary family and look forward to a long partnership with this wonderful school.” Another portion of the efforts focuses on the use of alternative energies as the source for wetlands monitoring. NowVision Technologies, Inc. of Clearwater, FL is currently working to install Network Video Cameras provided by Mobotix USA and radios throughout the preserve. When completed, the system will

Cecile Longfellow, former Knights Elementary Principal Linda Bailey, and current Knights Elementary Principal Janine Hall smile in front of the new Knights P.R.E.S.E.R.V.E. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

transmit camera images to students in the classrooms. The cameras and radios will be partially powered using solar and wind-generated energy. Students will be able to study and record wildlife activity throughout the preserve, as well as benefit from new educational opportunities to learn about renewable forms of energy. A modular, solar powered weather station will also collect and transmit weather data for student analysis. A full range of P.R.E.S.E.R.V.E. focused lessons plans are being developed, and will be available for local feeder schools. The curriculum and lesson plans will include creative ways for teachers and students to enhance their understanding of the wetlands preserve, including: • Teacher reading on the boardwalk to intrigued students, capturing their imagination and enjoying the surrounding nature • Students using tools like magnifying glasses, thermometers, and

forceps to research and observe the environment • Up-close wildlife activity within the preserve, such as frogs and aquatic insects • Classes participating in an animal activity hunt: looking for evidence of animal activity such as footprints, pathways, nests, chewed food remains, etc. • Volunteer parents and students cleaning the preserve with up-keep work such as litter picking, tree planting, and weed maintenance. Additional major project donors include the Hillsborough County School Board, the Hillsborough Education Foundation, the Hillsborough County Pollution Recovery Fund, the Southwest Florida Water Management District, and the Biddinger Family Foundation.

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

local focus

Top of the class The 2009 PCHS valedictorian, Victoria Capezza, was also captain of the basketball team. Now she sets her eyes on being a Gator. S to r y by C h e r y l J o h n s to n

Victoria Alice Capezza determined as a Plant City High School freshman to pursue a specific dream. As the 17-year-old senior prepares for graduation, her dream to become valedictorian for the Class of 2009 is now a reality. This is a proud moment for Tori – a name she is known as – her parents Joseph and Janet, her sister Angela, and maternal grandparents, Robert and Mary Meadows. Along the educational route to valedictorian, Tori attended Color My World Day Care, Walden Lake Elementary, and Tomlin Middle School where encouragement from teachers and friends made all the difference. Class rank, the determiner for valedictorian and salutatorian, is determined through grade point average. Every course has a certain weight for A grades: Regular courses weigh in at 4 points, honors courses at 5, Advanced Placement (AP) courses at 6, and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses earn 7 points. When added together and divided by the number of courses taken, the weighted average is the GPA. Since the calculation is cumulative over the four years of high school or college, it is crucial to establish a high GPA in the first and second years. Tori made all the right moves to graduate tops in her class with a 7.064 weighted GPA and 3.944 unweighted, including an impressive 13 AP courses. In the traditional valedictorian role, her graduation address will be the final farewell to classmates before they go separate ways to advanced education or careers. While her family is proud of

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

this accomplishment, they are also pleased with how successfully she has managed her well-rounded life. Tori encourages students to get involved in school activities for the fun and the friendships. She has fond memories of PCHS “sporting events, plays, performances, and amazing club days.” As varsity basketball captain this year, Capezza won Wendy’s Heisman Award, designating her as a PCHS Scholar Athlete. She also received the Plant City Optimist Club Youth Appreciation Award. Her parents credit this club, the Plant City Recreation Department’s basketball program volunteers, and her coaches at Tomlin and PCHS for developing confidence in their daughter, calling them “amazing role models.” Tori is also community-minded with more than 250 service hours logged as a volunteer in nursing homes, the YMCA, PC Republican Women’s Club, Special Olympics, and the Greater Federation of Women’s Clubs Plant City Juniorettes. At school she presides over the Interact Club and Science Club with involvement also in National Honor Society, Academic Team, Key Club, Reading Club, Best Buddies, Future Business Leaders of America, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Her commitment to excellence secured multiple scholarships, including Florida Bright Futures, Felton’s Valedictorian Award, PC Jr. Women’s Club Scholarship, PC Rotary Club Academic Scholarship, PC Optimist Club Scholarship, and Chick-fil-A Scholar Athlete Scholarship. Tori begins classes as a University of Florida Gator this summer. Within 10

Victoria Capezza played shooting guard for the PCHS girls basketball team, and she is graduating as the valedictorian. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

years she expects to be a pediatrician, a decision inspired by two teachers, Ms. Churchwell and Mrs. Weigand, who ignited a passion for science and medicine. Family support was another important factor. According to mom, Janet, “Being valedictorian was not a family goal. It was something Tori wanted, so we said, ‘Go for it.’ We’ve stressed the importance of learning. We encourage our daughters to think independently and respect others’ views. We eat dinner as a family most nights and enjoy many topics of discussion.” Her father, Joseph, has been impressed that “Tori’s focus throughout

high school was clearly on her goal. She sacrificed a lot of play time to study and keep up with school work.” His latest proud dad T-shirt acknowledges his daughter as “ValedicTORIan.” Both parents commend her great attitude, noting, “She has been singled out by many coaches, teachers, and group leaders as being exemplary for teamwork and attitude. You can’t just study good attitude – you’ve got to practice it and learn to make it come from inside. We are proud of Victoria’s accomplishments…but we are most proud of the person she has become.”

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foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

local focus with mystical green, blue, and red lights, and guests were served festive, blue beverages, and had extravagant dinner at the core of the night. Fry and Smith enjoyed being cochairs because they got the opportunity to help others and help the Plant City community. “Last year the event almost raised $100,000 but we are hoping to raise more this year,” said Smith. Fry is very grateful her friends are part of the committee because she gets to work side-by-side with them At the Rainbow Ball, people had a blast dancing with their dates. Photo by Krystel Knowles and know their work is supporting a good cause. to teach parents about childhood “We all work hard because at the development. end of the day it is a labor of love for “I want to help build better fami- the people we help,” said Fry. lies and prevent child abuse,” said Smith and Fry said that they were D’Agostino. worried the sponsorship level, guests, The Child Abuse Council has an and all aspects of the event were going online resource center. It has a variety to be lower than last year because of of tips, courses, videos and more ways the economy. But they said all aspects to help improve parenting. D’Agostino of the ball are better than previous S to r y by K r y s t e l K n o w l e s said that he is very grateful he gets the years. No one likes to hear about a child for the Child Abuse Council, is thank- opportunity to aid families in need. “Sunshine State Federal Savings “It is such a rewarding feeling when is a great sponsor because whenever being injured or mentally scarred. ful for the support of the Plant City Unfortunately, it becomes reality far community. He is the first executive a child grows up and remembers that we need sponsorship they are always too often. director of the organization, which he you played an important role in their willing to help,” Fry said. According to the United States joined 22 years ago. The Child Abuse life,” D’Agostino said. The event co-chairs, Smith and Fry, The theme for this year’s Rainbow and Child Abuse Council executive Department of Health and Human Council is a series of programs to help Services, more than four children die children and their families rebuild Ball was Moroccan, “A Night of Mys- director, D’Agostino, would like to each day as a result of child abuse in their lives after being abused. There tique,” with belly dancers performing thank all the guests who attended the the home. are several prevention and educational during the meet and greets wine Rainbow Ball and made the event a At least the people of Plant City programs for parents. The council is a tasting. The ball room was decorated success. and the Child Abuse Council are do- multi-service, nonprofit organization ing their part to help stop, or at least designed for education, prevention, lower, that number. and support for families. The 22nd annual Rainbow Ball The Child Abuse Council is an was held to help support the many effective organization in Plant City, programs the Child Abuse Council offering several programs such as has to offer. The event consisted of a Kids on the Block, an educational silent auction, live auction, different puppet program to teach children to sponsorship levels, dinner, perfor- speak up about abuse; and Healthy mances, and dancing. Yvonne Fry and Start, a visitation program to help Jodi Smith were the co-chairs of the newborns and families with the Rainbow Ball. They have been orga- support they need to care for a newnizing the event for a year because the born. The Child Abuse Council will preparations are meticulous. be adding more programs to Plant “After the event is over we are going City such as FRANC, Boot camp to start planning next years event, it for new dads; Baby Bungalow, child takes a lot of work,” said Smith. development workshops, and Parents Entertainment for the night included a choreographed dance that went well with the Rainbow Paul D’Agostino, executive director as Teachers, an educational program Ball’s Moroccan theme, “A Night of Mystique.” Photo by Krystel Knowles

Keeping children safe The Child Abuse Council throws another successful event, raising money to fund programs aimed at child abuse.

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

Shivani Desai, 16, performed eight different dances at her classical Indian dance debut in the Plant City High School auditorium. Photo by Krystel Knowles

Shivani’s Solo

an auditorium. I am happy to perform in Plant City, I don’t think this has ever been done here,” said Desai. She said dancing for people is spiritually elevating and exciting, adding that it also makes her feel beautiful. “It is a very big self-esteem booster because everyone is focusing on me and my S to r y by K r y s t e l K n o w l e s dancing.” Desai’s debut performance at the Shivani Desai is a 16-year-old honIn Indian culture, dance is imporors student at Plant City High School tant, almost like a legacy. In order to Plant City High School auditorium who began dancing when she was a for the dancer to carry out their debut, consisted of eight different dances little girl because, in India, dancing is a guru, who is a dancer’s mentor, must with different meanings. Her opening a way to express oneself. determine if a student is mentally and dance was called Pushpanjali and GaDesai started learning Bharatha physically prepared. Nine years ago neshanjali, which were about the perNatyam, which is a dance originated her older sister, Juhi, 22, debuted the former seeking blessings from Lord in the state of Tamil Nadu, since the dance and ever since then her younger Ganesha. Then came the Jathiswaram, Ambastuti, Varnam, Murali Manohar, age of 6. Bharatha Natyam is a classi- sister wanted to follow her footsteps. cal dance in India and has been passed “After I saw my sister dance, I had to Shivastuti, Deiva Kurathi and finally the Thillana. After the performance on for many generations. do it too,” said Desai. “It was really hard to learn the dance Desai said she had been looking Shivani does a Mangalam, which is a at first, but I have been practicing since forward to the day she would get to prayer to thank everyone involved in her debut performance. last summer,” said Desai. “For the last perform for a large audience. Desai’s mother, Jigisha, said she is few weeks my teacher has been living “After so much practice, the day has with us, so I can practice more.” finally arrived and I get to perform for very proud of her daughter because

A girl’s dance celebration brought Indian culture to Plant City.

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

of her dedication. Jigisha said she knew one day she would get to see her daughter perform. “I always knew she would succeed, it is the culture from our country. This is the culture her parents know, it is very important to know our heritage,” said Jigisha. “This is her first official theater level event. It is like a graduation.” Mahesh, father, said he is happy his daughter is embracing her culture and following her sister’s footsteps. “Living in America, it is important to keep our traditions and customs alive,” Mahesh said. “This dance is an ancient culture, almost 5,000 years old.” Juhi also is proud of her younger sister and is happy to see her perform, saying, “As the older sister I want Shivani to have a bigger and better celebration than I did, it is a motherly feeling.”

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local focus

Helping those less fortunate Monthly, The Artistry finds a way to give back. S t o r y by L a u r a Es t e s

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

These days, it seems everyone is interested in performing some type of community service. High school students accumulate hours in order to qualify for scholarships and large corporations encourage employees to volunteer by giving them days off to work in the community. One local salon is looking at volunteerism in a whole new way. Jana Evers, a stylist for 22 years, and her husband, Ron, have owned The Artistry for nine years and thank the Plant City community for its patronage with what they call “monthly givebacks.” What is so special about The Artistry is that the Evers have managed to surround themselves with employees who feel just as strongly as they do about their place in the community. The Artistry employs stylists, aestheticians, massage therapists, and nail techs, who all dedicate one Thursday each month to helping those in need. Most recently, the whole crew traveled to a local church to provide food and haircuts to the needy and homeless on April 16. They gave approximately 20 haircuts in addition to donating and serving food. “This church sets up to feed the homeless every Thursday and some of the people had expressed the need for haircuts. So, we thought it was the perfect thing for us to do,” said Jana Evers. These beauty professionals are no strangers to helping those in need. Last August, they donated back-to-school haircuts to students from struggling families in an effort coordinated through Tomlin Middle School. They have also volunteered at Stepping Stone Farm, a Christian residential program for at-risk teenage girls. Those at The Artistry recently participated in Relay For Life – see this month’s feature, page 53 – raising funds in an effort to find a cure for cancer.

Ashley Showalter gives this fellow a trim. Photo courtesy of The Artistry

Jana Evers brightened when she talked about a recent “giveback,” when The Artistry invited six senior citizen ladies from the Plant City Living Center to the salon for a full spa day. The ladies were treated to massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures, in addition to cuts and styles. The crew at The Artistry is preparing for their next community giveback, scheduled for May 15, at the salon. They will be doing “Haircuts for Noah,” a local child in need of extensive medical treatment. They will be working to raise money to donate to Noah’s family for medical expenses. Call ahead to schedule an appointment and become a part of giving within the community. Jana Evers also said they are always looking for new opportunities to give back. They look for something new each month, so anyone who has suggestions or opportunities for community service, call Jana at (813)-7177700. She would love to hear ideas. The Artistry is located at 1505 S. Alexander St., suite 102.

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local focus

Tracy Russell feeds an infant Guatemalan boy. Photo courtesy of FBCH

Finding homes for children A malnutrition center in Guatemala looks to help the poverty-stricken country. It is something many people don’t like to think about, but it is a reality: Hunger and poverty strike nations all across the world. Guatemala is one of those countries. With a population of approximately 12 million people, UNICEF estimates there are more than 370,000 orphans in Guatemala. Many of these children come from families facing extreme poverty. In fact, more than 70 percent of the people in Guatemala live below the poverty level. Mission teams from the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, a faithbased 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization that has been caring for abused, neglected, and orphaned children since 1904, are working alongside

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

the Guatemalan nationals to improve conditions in targeted orphanages and other childcare locations. “Two years ago our board of trustees decided that we should expand the utilization of our expertise in childcare beyond Florida by venturing overseas to serve some of the most disadvantaged children in the world. The needs of orphaned children in the developing world are truly profound. We are now reaching children in some of the most dire, poverty stricken areas that one could imagine,” said Dr. Jerry Haag, president of FBCH. The organization has 13 ministry locations across Florida and provides various services, including residential care, emergency shelter care, foster

care, adoption care services, and services for developmentally delayed adults. In addition, they also conduct international childcare missions to targeted locations in the developing world. Last year, the FBCH served 5,183 children, adults, and families. “The Children’s Homes serves international locations in Guatemala, Honduras, Russia, Romania, and Uganda. We plan to expand the number of international locations we serve as this part of our ministry continues to grow,” said Haag. The Florida Baptist Children’s Homes identified the Children’s Malnutrition Center of San Juan, Guatemala, as one of its first international ministry locations because

of the extreme needs and because of the potential to expand the capacity of the center to serve more children. A mission team from FBCH traveled there earlier this year to make assessments and develop plans to improve the center. The children served by the center range from seven months to seven years of age, and it provides temporary care to infants and young children that are severely malnourished. They come from homes where they did not receive proper nutrition, primarily due to their parent’s lack of means to provide necessary food and care. Currently, the center can only take care of 40 children but it has the capacity to handle 200 children. “There are only about three staff available to care for 30 children during the day, which doesn’t give them much time to provide individual attention to the kids. These kids deeply grave greater levels of human interaction from adults,” said Ron Gunter, vice president of international childcare for the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes. The center currently cares for 30 children, which includes 14 infants and 16 children between the ages of 2 and 4 years. A doctor comes by every day to assess the condition of the children. The children receive housing, daily bathing, medicine, and three meals a day. The FBCH will be conducting international childcare mission trips to the Malnutrition Center throughout the year. Anyone interested in joining one of the mission trips should call Gunter at (863) 687-8811 or e-mail Ron.Gunter@FBCHomes.org or sign up for a trip on www.FBChomes.org. “If someone can use a paint brush, they can be of great use and assistance on one of our trips. Or just spending some time with the children would be a tremendous help in providing some relief for the workers,” Gunter said. For more information, please call Brian Gilpin at Brian.Gilpin@FBCHomes.org or (863) 687-8811.

Summer Pippin Hair Stylist The Place of Beauty

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local Did you know?

A tribute to those who served their country in the armed forces S u b m i t t e d by P l a n t C i t y P h o to A r c h i v e s

The Civil War, or the War Between the States, slowly drew to a close after four long and horrendous years of battle. On April 26, 1865, at the Battle of Bentonville, near Durham, North Carolina, the Union Army, under General William Tecumseh Sherman, was victorious over the Confederate Army, under the command of General Joseph E. Johnston. Both men were graduates of the United States Military Academy at West Point, and this was to be the last major battle of the war. Ironically, General Johnston, at age 84, served as a pallbearer at General Sherman’s funeral on a cold February day in New York. Because of the cold, Johnston was asked to put on his hat, and replied, “If I were in his place, and he were standing in mine, he would not put on his hat.” Johnston died one month later from pneumonia. By 1866, April 26 became unofficially observed as Confederate Memorial Day, and the graves of Confederate soldiers were festooned with flowers and wreaths. The observers also placed flowers on the nearby barren graves of the Union dead.

It is said that General John A. Logan, commander in chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, a veterans’ organization, was so impressed with the way the South honored their dead with a special day that on May 5, 1868, he established Decoration Day to pay tribute to the Union dead. The day chosen was May 30. The first large observance was held May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery. After the dedication and speeches, flowers were strewn on both Union and Confederate graves. Over the years, the day became referred to as both Decoration Day and Memorial Day. After World War I, it changed from a tribute to the Confederate and Union dead to a tribute to the dead of all American wars. After WWII it was referred to more often as Memorial Day, and in 1967, May 30 officially became Memorial Day. In 1971 the date was changed to the Monday preceding May 30. By 1951, and after two world wars, the Decoration Day / Memorial Day ceremony was conducted by the American Legion, Post 26, which was

The Plant City American Legion post participated in the Memorial Day ceremony May 30, 1951, in the city park, across from city hall. Photo courtesy of Plant City Photo Archives.

formed in 1919 and named after Plant City’s first casualty of WWI, Norman E. McLeod. The ceremonies were held at the city park on the south side of Mahoney Street, across from the City Hall, and later moved to the City Hall location on Wheeler and Mahoney in the early 1960s. The American Legion Post had acquired a replica of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and would place it at the site of the ceremony, at City Hall or the American Legion Field near Schneider Stadium, and would decorate the tomb with wreaths of colorful flowers and ribbons. The ceremony was always held on May 30 until Congress established that the observance of the holiday, with a few exceptions, would fall on the preceding Monday.

Ground was broke for the Plant City Veterans Monument on May 2. The project has been in the works for four years. Photo courtesy of Plant City Photo Archives.

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Recently, the American Legion Post 26 moved its Memorial Day ceremony to the Legion Hall at 2207 W. Baker St. The ceremony includes the presentation of wreaths by citizens and civic organizations, followed by songs, a reading of names of the deceased veterans, and a short address by an invited speaker, and lunch. In 2009 the ceremony will take place on Monday, May 25, beginning at 11 a.m. In May 2005, wanting to establish a fitting monument to honor our veterans, the Plant City Photo Archives formed an autonomous Veterans Monument Committee, which formed the nonprofit organization, Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation. After four years of planning, fundraising, and working with civic groups, city officials, engineers, and artists, on Saturday, May 2, 2009, the Veterans Monument Committee broke ground for a Veterans Memorial Park, the centerpiece of which will be the Veterans Monument at Courier Field. In addition to the Veterans Monument, an eight-feet tall sculpture of an American Bald Eagle, mounted on a solid six- foot base, the park will contain a large gathering area, a gazebo, garden areas, walks and benches, and open grassy areas. The park is expected to be open in late 2009 and will be the site for future individual use, picnics, gatherings, and ceremonies. The monument and park area will be a continuing tribute to those who came to the service of our country since the birth of the nation.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

local chamber column

GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE S u b m i t t e d by B r uc e R o d w e l l

As we approach the summer months, there will be plenty of activities and events taking place. Remember to call the chamber office at (813) 754-3707 and get your event placed on the COMMUNITY CALENDAR. By calling the Chamber, you can determine if your date might conflict with another event and thereby avoid a conflict. It’s just another way of letting our community know about your event. ······························································· Kelleigh Klein, executive director of the Plant City United Food Bank, wants to thank all who participated in the golf tournament on May 1. The event was held in partnership with Unity in the Community and the presenting sponsor, Sweetbay Supermarket. It was a very successful event and the money raised goes to support two very worthwhile local charities. On the subject of the Food Bank, Ms. Klein mentioned that, with the economy in the shape it is, the need for donations of either food or cash is greater than ever and increases daily. You can drop off donations at the Food Bank location at 712 E. Alsobrook St., Unit #9. The hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. For additional information, call (813) 764-0625. ······························································· According to the latest results in the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers (HCAHPS), the term used to describe the patient surveys that Medicare requires all hospitals send patients after discharge, our very own South Florida Baptist Hospital ranked No. 1 out of 27 area hospitals in Nurse Communication; No. 2 in Cleanliness; No. 2 in Staff Response and No. 4 in Overall Hospital Rating. We have a great team at

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

our hospital and these results bear out that fact. ······························································· At the Hillsborough County CityCounty Planning Commission’s 27th Annual Community Design Awards event, the Northeast Plant City Area Master Plan received one of three of the highest awards presented this year - an Award of Outstanding Contribution to the Community. Gary Sears and Bonnie Carr, two Plant City Planning Board members, were present to receive the award. It’s a great honor for our Plant City community. Congratulations to all involved. ······························································· On May 22, the 2009 Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class will graduate. This is truly a great program. The goal is to prepare current and future leaders of the Greater Plant City Community for decisions that must be made as our city grows and develops. For class members to better understand the elements that comprise our community, Leadership sessions take place at various locations throughout the Greater Plant City area. The program is under the direction of the Chamber Board of Directors and is managed by Leadership alumni and coordinated by the Chamber President, Marion Smith, and staff. Members of the 2009 class include: Erin Brown, Heather Coats, Lynn Connor, Olan Deguzman, Matthew Freedman, Cindy Gutowski, Donna Hines, Pam Knight, Steve Nierman, Dan Raulerson, Cindy Robinson, Art Schauffert, Terri Scott, Brian West, Sandi Whitmill, Polly Wiggins, and Bridget Zickefoose.

If you are interested in enrolling the ······························································· 2010 Leadership Class, please call Summer Day Camp is coming up at the chamber office for details and an the Plant City YMCA. Starting date application. The number is (813) 754- for the program is June 8. Clinics will 3707. consist of cardio exercise, outdoor ······························································· games like Frisbee, kickball, horseThe ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY shoes, etc. Indoor games of dodge SERVICE will be held at the Ameri- ball, mini golf, Twister, and many can Legion Hall, 2207 W. Baker St., others. Also, part of the program will Plant City on May 25. This event gets be an archery clinic, arts and crafts underway at 11 a.m. It is a great way as well as swim instruction, water to honor our service men and women, games, and aquatic fitness routines. both past and present. The various Call the Y at (813) 757-6677 or stop clubs and organizations will present by 1507 YMCA Place in Plant City wreaths in honor of our fallen heroes. for information and to reserve a spot. After a brief service, refreshments ······························································· will be served compliments of the The monthly Chamber Contact American Legion Norman McLeod Breakfast will take place on WednesPost No. 26. day, June 10 at the Red Rose Inn ······························································· Ballroom. This is always interesting Don’t forget to make your reservations and a great place to meet chamber for the chamber’s Annual EGGS members. Call the chamber office at & ISSUES 2009 LEGISLATIVE (813) 754-3707 to RSVP. WRAP-UP BREAKFAST, which ······························································· will take place at the Red Rose Inn Susan Wilson, the chamber’s memon Wednesday, May 27. This event bership director, will celebrate her gets underway at 7:30 a.m. Call the birthday on June 9. If you see Susan chamber office at (813) 754-3707 to on that day, be sure and wish her a RSVP for this informative event on HAPPY BIRTHDAY ! what happened in Tallahassee this ······························································· past Legislative Session. REMEMBER TO SUPPORT ······························································· YOUR GREATER PLANT CITY The Pregnancy Care Center of Plant CHAMBER OF COMMERCE City will hold its annual Tea of Sig- MEMBERS. nificance on Saturday, June 6, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Red Rose SHOP AND PATRONIZE Ballroom, 2011 N. Wheeler St., Plant THOSE BUSINESSES WHERE City. You can call the center at (813) YOU SEE THIS SIGN: MEM759-0886 for additional information. BER GREATER PLANT CITY ······························································· CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Don’t forget the great BIKE FEST, which takes place in Historic Downtown Plant City on Saturday, June 6. This is a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon and evening with the whole family. Come to downtown Plant City and look over all the great motorcycles that will be on display. It always promises great entertainment and lots Each month hundreds of bikes cruise downtown Plant City. Don’t miss it. of fun.

local chamber column

PUTTING THE STRAWBERRY IN PLANT CITY S u b m i t t e d by F e l i x H ay n e s

As we bring a close to another season in “The Winter Strawberry Capital of the World,” we pay homage to the red, sweet, luscious berry that puts Plant City on the map and provides enough energy to fuel the success of at least two of its major organizations. More than a million visitors pass through the gates of the high-profile Strawberry Festival each year, but the other organization celebrates its equally strong successes quieter. “Since 1982,” says FSGA Executive Director Ted Campbell, “the Florida Strawberry Growers Association has supported the businesses that actually grow the beautiful strawberries—over 22 million flats each year. From their over-8,300 acres of growing fields, FSGA’s 100-plus grower-members, 95 associate-members, and 10 brokermembers cover a 15 percent share of the U. S. strawberry market. The nearly $350 million in annual revenue of our local industry has tripled in the past two decades.” The quiet clout generated by FSGA has been continually targeted into vigorous public advocacy with elected and appointed officials throughout the

FSGA’s 2008 Strawberry Ambassadors Catilin Cribbs (far left) and Kayla Fulwood (far right) stand with FSGA’s Director of Marketing Sue Harrell and Executive Director Ted Campbell. 2008 Ambassadors not pictured are Jerrod Parker and Drew Roberts. Photo courtesy of FSGA

nation and state for the activities of its members and of many of the organizations based in the Plant City area. In the last decade, the organization was instrumental in garnering state funding for Plant City’s John R. Trinkle Community Center, the University of Florida’s Branch Campus on the Plant

FSGA’s staff from left to right, Ted Campbell, Sue Harrell, Sarah Williams, and Glenda McNary. Photo courtesy of FSGA

City Campus of Hillsborough Community College, and UF- Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences‘s 550-acre research farm at Balm. Physically based on Gallagher Road in Dover, the association markets its products from a Web site addressed www.flastrawberry.com. These marketing activities include an annual “Agritech” trade show, a 10,000-square-foot exhibit in the annual Strawberry Festival, and an annual association award banquet known as the “Strawberry Jam.” The Web site also contains documentation of some of FSGA’s advocacy activities in a scrolling collection of articles from area newspapers. FSGA strongly supports balancing environmental and water resource concerns against the productivity of the agricultural operations of its members. Policy direction and support for all of FSGA’s activities are provided by its 17-member board of directors, chaired this year by President Maurice Turgeau. Care to learn about the ultimate use and enjoyment of the strawberries

grown by FSGA members? The Web site also contains cookbooks and recipes on how to cook and eat the tasty berries, as well as educating readers about their nutritional benefits. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary Florida Strawberry Patent Service, the association manages the patents to eight varieties of strawberries, including Sweet Charlie, Strawberry Festival, Florida Radiance, and Winter Dawn. Much of the revenue generated by these patents goes to another wholly-owned subsidiary, the Florida Strawberry Research and Education Foundation. Over the years the foundation has awarded nearly 300 scholarships to deserving Plant City area students and donated $2.5 million to the UF-IFAS to support continuing research in areas of grower interest. FSGA does its share to give Plant City its claim to fame, but to really know the full contribution made by this three-decades-old organization just bite into one of their sweet, red berries. foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

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2009 Introduction by Krystel Knowles

The American Cancer Society has made a lot of progress in the nationwide fight against cancer because of the efforts and dedication of all their volunteers. Through local events like Relay For Life, it has aided many cancer survivors, patients, and their families. Anyone can become a volunteer and help the American Cancer Society find a cure for cancer. Carol Mayo, event chair for Relay For Life of Plant City, has been on the committee for more than nine years. She is proud and happy of the success of the event. The event consists of teams camping at a local school or location for 18 hours, with each team having at least one member walking the track at all times. A popular and inspiring part of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony. Everyone gets a chance to light a candle to remember a loved one who died

of cancer or to celebrate a cancer survivor. “I attribute the success of the event to the community, they all together to support the fight against cancer,” Mayo said. She said the Plant City Relay For Life event in 2008 was the seventh largest Relay in all of Florida. Mayo’s goal was to raise at least $250,000 at the culmination of the 18-hour event. “All money raised goes to research, having events like these really help fund this needed research,” Mayo said. Mayo said 100 percent of local schools had their own teams to represent their school. “It is very touching to have people so young participate in an event for the greater good of the community,” Mayo said.

Inspired Relay For Life team members, eager to get a “running start” on raising money and helping others, set up their team areas early and wait for the festivities to begin. Photo by Melissa Grimes

In addition to the teams, guests, and on-site fundraisers, there was also a tent to promote the Cancer Prevention Study 3. Tammy Baker, volunteer for the Cancer Prevention Study, said her son’s baseball coach recruited her because they were in need of dedicated volunteers. The study consists of taking a blood sample from a donor, between the ages of 30 and 65, who has never been diagnosed with cancer and is willing to complete periodic surveys. The American Cancer Society Department of Epidemiology Research is trying to recruit 500,000 adults to find out more about causes of cancer. Through the CPS-3 research, ACS will better understand the causes of cancer and find preventative methods. Take a look at what went on at the Plant City Relay For Life 2009.

Little Miss Plant City and her court were on hand to give fl owers and sashes to attending cancer survivors as they prepared to participate in Relay For Life’s traditional Survivors Lap, which kicks off the event. Photo by Melissa Grimes foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

Megan Carpenter’s mother, Dana, and brother, Chad, take a moment to pose for a picture in front of the Plant City High School team’s booth. Megan is tragically gone but is clearly well loved and fondly remembered in Plant City’s wonderful community. Photo by Melissa Grimes

remembering megan BY AARON OBERLIN

Although she no longer walks the streets of Plant City, she continues to leave her footprint on the community and those close to her. During the Relay for Life at Plant City High School on April 17, Megan Carpenter’s memory marched among a myriad of cancer survivors and awareness supporters. Dozens of people and several businesses came together to form the Plant City High School team, which is a group formed in honor of the 17-year-old who passed away from cancer in 2006. It was one of many teams at the relay raising money for cancer research. The thought of a congregation walking in her honor, however, would have surprised her. “She was nice to everyone. Everyone loved her, but she would have never expected this,” said Lauren Bradshaw, Megan’s best friend in high school. “She was quiet. She would have wanted people to support [the fight against cancer] not because of her, but because it is something that affects so many.” But for the girl who passed away at South Florida Baptist Hospital, her battle with cancer did, and still does, resound with many people. Bradshaw, a 19-year-old freshman at the University of Central Florida, described Megan as a humble person who was “always smiling” – a smile that Bradshaw “will never forget.” Bradshaw is just one of many college students who make their way to the Plant City Relay for Life each year to remember Megan. Several of her high school friends who now live in Gainesville and other distant cities make sure to be at PCHS when the luminary ceremony commences. It is a ritual where people illuminate candles inside sandfi lled luminaria to remember both those who have survived and fallen to cancer. Although her impact on friends and family remains profound, there were none affected more so

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

than, perhaps, her mother, Dana Carpenter. The way Megan handled her disease left an impression on her mother that changed her outlook on life. “She made me a stronger person. Made me appreciate the smaller things in life. Live for today: That’s how Megan was,” said Dana, who smiles when she talks about her daughter. “She noticed the flowers. She paid attention to the sunrise and the sunset.” Those who knew Megan well say she was always the optimist. When she was 11 years old doctors diagnosed her with leukemia. At the time, she enjoyed cheerleading for the youth football Plant City Dolphins. However, chemotherapy treatments prevented her participating often, but whenever she got the chance she was back on the sidelines cheering with her friends. “She never felt sorry for herself. She loved life and people and she never asked why [cancer] happened to her,” said Dana. “She always believed that God was going to take care of her.” “She was such a positive person,” said Bradshaw. For the people who walked in Megan’s memory at the relay, many believe she is still smiling down upon them, enjoying the little things.

Each bag has a candle in it, which is lit after dusk as part of a tradition whereby people who have been lost to cancer are memorialized, and people who have survived are celebrated. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

Young kids could walk alongside Relay participants on this prepared path, tied into the theme, “Stomp Out Cancer.” Photo by Melissa Grimes

Even the young ones can help out. Students at Bryan Elementary contributed artwork to help inspire Relay For Life participants at the Plant City event. Photo by Melissa Grimes

Honorary Survivor Chair, Jonathan Rosales, plays with one of the gifts he was presented by his teacher, Laura Wyatt, from Bryan Elementary. Wyatt is the team leader of the Bryan Elementary Relay team. Photo by Melissa Grimes

plant city relay for life 2009 BY KEVIN TALL

The 2009 Plant City Relay For Life Honorary Survivor Chair, Jonathan Rosales, poses for a picture with his family. Pictured are father, Marcel; mother, Carolina; and brother Anthony. Photo by Melissa Grimes

Meet Jonathan Rosales. This smiling, handsome little devil is a happy, caring and sociable kindergarten student at Bryan Elementary School in Plant City. Rosales is also a cancer survivor. “He is an awesome little guy” said Laura Wyatt, Jonathan’s teacher at Bryan. Wyatt described him as always being happy and very social. He’s the type of kid who asks, “Are you okay?” whenever someone sneezes. Named as the Honorary Survivor Chair for Plant City’s 2009 Relay For Life event, Jonathan overcame choroids plexus brain and spine tumors, which had to be removed surgically. It is a very rare cancer that occurs in the ventricles of the brain, usually in children younger than 2 years old, according to the National Cancer Institute’s Web site. The strength of such an amazing child is inspiring. The Bryan Elementary Relay For Life team raised more than $15,000 for the American Cancer Society this year. Here’s hoping Jonathan’s strength and charming smile can inspire people to give even more generously next year.

Some Plant City citizens who overcame cancer participate in the Relay For Life’s traditional Survivors Lap at the event at Plant City High School. Photo by Melissa Grimes Wilson Elementary School’s Relay team used the theme, “Smooth Sailing for a Cure,” in its 10th year at the Relay. Carol Mayo, event chair for the Plant City event, is also the assistant principal at Wilson. The team sold cold beverages to raise more money. Photo by Aaron Oberlin The Strawberry Queen and Little Miss Plant City, along with their respective courts, walk with the Relay For Life banner during the Survivors Lap. The Survivors Lap is a Relay For Life tradition, during which cancer survivors take a victory lap around the track. Photo by Melissa Grimes

foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

NISH

FIN Check FOCUSTV for extended coverage of Plant City’s Relay for Life 2009

Jenny Watson was the captain of the Nelson Elementary team. She beat thyroid cancer and is 13 years free. The team raised $2,000 coming into the event, offering pancakes at $ 3 to rack up more change. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

The Tomlin Middle School team added a motorcycle twist to Relay For Life’s theme and aspired to be the “Leaders of the Pack.” This group looks totally revved up to raise funds in search of a cure for cancer. The Tomlin team had raised $11,000 by the start of the event and hoped to raise more by selling snow cones and fl ower pens. Photo by Melissa Grimes

The Cork Elementary team adapted this year’s “Cruisin’ for a Cure” theme to “Surfin’ for a Cure.” They look ready to roll for a good cause. The Cork team had raised $ 6,000 at the start of the event. Photo by Melissa Grimes

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

The American Cancer Society extends its thanks to all donors and participants of Relay For Life. The Plant City event is counted as one of the most successful in Florida. According to the American Cancer Society’s Web site, Plant City contributors raised around $225,000. Photo by Melissa Grimes

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BUDDY JOHNSON The Exclusive Interview The path Buddy Johnson was on took a quick turn. Now a new road lies ahead of him. Interview by Aaron Oberlin and photography by Aaron Oberlin with additional photos courtesy of Buddy Johnson

foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

NISH

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Buddy Johnson The Exclusive Interview

He is a man who has walked with some of the highest profiles in Florida. He is an entrepreneur and former politician. But today, Buddy Johnson, a former owner of BuddyFreddy’s restaurant and past Hillsborough County Elections Supervisor, walks a new path in Plant City. Amid the political controversy that surrounds him, Johnson spoke with FOCUS about some of his experiences as a child, a politician and businessman, and what the future holds for him. FOCUS: “You are a Plant City native, talk about your family and growing up here.” Johnson: “Mom and dad, of course they’re my heroes. Freddy and I grew up on the south side of Plant City, actually the current location of Southern Hospitality was the first Johnson’s restaurant. Dad built a twopump SuperTest gas station and in the course of the next seven years, with our house situated next door to the gas station, the gas station became a 300-seat restaurant. Dad sold seven years later after the gas station had become a big restaurant. Then he went down to what was then Haines Street, now Martin Luther King, and did it all over again. “Mom and Dad together are quite an amazing team. Dad’s got a second-third grade education from south Alabama and grew up in the Depression. Mom’s got a couple of years of college.” FOCUS: “So in high school I understand you were quite a basketball star and the valedictorian, right? You must have some fond memories of Plant City.”

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Johnson: “I did well in school, had a good basketball career, and learned a lot of discipline. And [I’m] very proud of that whole period of my life, very proud of the family I grew up with, and proud of high school. I was valedictorian and Coach Martin taught me a lot about discipline playing basketball. I was All-state and All-county and president of the class for a few years. Those things are all nice but the beauty of growing up in Plant City is growing up in Plant City – the people here and the values we have.” FOCUS: “I know your parents were in the restaurant business, but how did you and your brother get into it?” Johnson: “It’s one of my favorite stories. After Dad and Mom had sold their second restaurant, Johnson’s Restaurant on Haines Street, Freddy and I were helping Dad and Mom do a catering event. He and I were outside washing pots. Here we are, 25, 26 years old thinking, ‘What in the world?’ I had gone to law school for a short time and didn’t really like that. Freddy didn’t like selling fertilizer, which is what he was doing, and a fellow by the name

Johnson was an All-state basketball player at PCHS.

B. Sparkman, out in Dover, drove up and he was a visitor and a talker and he said, ‘Boys, I can’t find a good waffle or some fried shrimp anywhere in this town.’ And Mom and Dad had sold; I guess nobody had filled that gap and I looked at Freddy, or he looked at me, one of us said, ‘We can fix that.’ And within a couple of months we had made the deal for the old Dog and Suds Planter drive-in and fixed that building up ourselves. And so I credit B. Sparkman with being the spark that got BuddyFreddy’s going. “The name BuddyFreddy’s, interestingly enough, when I was in college a buddy of mine got mad one day and he started calling me, ‘BuddyFreddy,’ like in vain, you know. I said, ‘Man, what a name that is.’ And so I said, ‘You just made me a lot of money,’ I hoped, anyway. That’s how the name got started.”

FOCUS: “You were a restaurateur, but how did you get involved in politics?” Johnson: “In ’91, I got a phone call one day as our business was really starting to take off. The Republican party asked me if I would run for the state legislature. Carl Carpenter had resigned, and I had never given a thought to politics and that night I made a decision to get in and life was forever different. “Some people think I had thought about politics all my life, but I really never had a thought about running for public office. I was a high school class president and involved in the community, but running for public office had really never been something I had sought after. I went by my folks house one Sunday morning before church and read that Carpenter had resigned, and I thought that was kind of strange, cause he just ran in November. It’s January and Carl’s resigning.

LEFT: Buddy Johnson with his father and mother and brother at the old gas station on U.S. 60. RIGHT: Buddy graduated from Plant City High School as valedictorian.

Buddy Johnson speaks at a city council meeting in Plant City in 1991.

“So I asked who else was running, and they said well, Bruce Hudgecraft, Walter Harkle, Mike Sparkman. Mike’s a good friend, Walter’s a good friend, how do I do that? They said it’s like high school sports, and I was an athlete, so I thought, OK. Boy that was a rude awakening. Mike and I are good friends and worked through some of those issues. But those were some interesting times. “Let me say one more thing about it. I told Mike the other day, I wish you’d won that race because look what you’ve done. His business has flourished and he’s done some incredible things for Plant City. Same as my brother. Freddy’s doing his thing and doing so well. I’m very proud of both of them, and I’m proud of what I did as well, so I think it all worked out. “ FOCUS: “Explain what was going on while you were both a restaurateur and a politician. Talk about your transition into being solely a politician.” Johnson: “BuddyFreddy’s was a dream, a vision that Freddy and I shared. I was always really interested, as Freddy was, in building the brand. What a great partner he was. I mean what he’s doing now with Fred’s Market is a testimony to the kind of business person he is. But I think the politics put some stress on our management style. You know I surely would have done some things differently. Some days I wish I had stayed in politics and let Freddy run the restaurant, who

knows where we’d be right now. But as that whole thing kind of unfolded, I ended up buying my brother’s share and shortly after that, a company from out West came along and just one day walked in and said, ‘Would you be willing to sell?’ And it wasn’t Buddy and Freddy anymore and it was sort of different. There’s some days I wish I hadn’t, some days I’m glad I did. “After selling BuddyFreddy’s, I ran the division of real estate for two years over in Orlando. Governor Bush appointed me to do that. And we took all 400,000 real estate licensees and put them on an online, high-end technology database. That was a lot of fun, the transition was a pretty cool experience.” FOCUS: “How did you end up as the supervisor of elections for Hillsborough County?” Johnson: “I saw where the supervisor of elections was running for mayor. And I went to my brother’s restaurant, Fred’s, and I as was going in a friend of mine, Al Higginbotham, was leaving. I said to him, looks like the Tampa mayor’s race is getting more crowded. He said, yeah I’m thinking about applying for supervisor of elections. And I went, wow. And I called a mutual friend of ours, and I asked if Al is going to do that? He said, well, probably not, because Al ran Jeb Bush’s campaign. So he said you know you ought to apply for that. And the rest is history. I was appointed, and what a ride that was.” FOCUS:

“Your

tenure

the elections chief brought you unfavorable attention. Allegations of mismanagement and misappropriation of funds continue to circle you. How do you respond to such criticism, and what has it been like for you?” Johnson: “I tell people when you’re a 5’11’’ all-star point guard in basketball, you just got to figure out a way to get stuff done. And my parents and Coach Martin gave me a great constitution when it comes to discipline and training. And politics is pretty tough. It’s like you’re an offensive lineman, you’re on a grass field, it’s raining, you’re the home team, and you got white uniforms on – if you don’t want to get dirty, don’t go out there. “Problem is, when I got involved in politics, I hadn’t thought about being in politics. And you don’t have to play dirty, but it is a full-contact sport, if you will. I’ll say I’m very proud of what we’ve done at the elections office – there’s no mismanagement of funds. I think all that will come to, I feel certain there’s been no misappropriation of funds. You might question how much effort we put into reaching out and educating voters and the money that we spent to educate the black community and the Hispanic community. Never before had such a program been undertaken. The high school program,

FOCUSTV

where we went into every high school two to three times a year and taught juniors and seniors about their responsibilities and their rights and their obligations to participate. The technology in the elections office – we have a new absentee ballot program, a new voter registration database. Hired a manager that set up the brain institute in Gainesville, and the Johnny Byrd Alzheimer’s Center. And we were state-of-the-art, first ever in-house legal council, which saved the county untold tens of thousands of dollars. “I’m not angry about it or bitter – the press has a job to do. I think in time all that will come around, but there are a lot of things that are just not so in the way the office has been presented to the county. It’s an interesting time not to be talking about that cause there’s some audits and supposed investigations that are going on that I’d probably be wiser to stay away from. But I’m very, very proud of the efforts that we made there, and I think the experience that voters had at the polling place, if our 98.9 percent approval excellent rating from our comment cards is any indication, I think the people of the county were satisfied. And I wish my successor, Phyllis Busansky, all the luck in the world and have offered my assistance to help in any way that I can.”

Due to space limitations, much of this interview has been edited. There is much more to the interview. Johnson talks about other allegations toward him, and he goes into more detail about his family and what Plant City means to him. For the more extensive interview, visit thefocusmagazine.com and click on the interview icon in the video archives.

foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

business profile

Jon and Mark Poppell discuss the details of an insurance policy in their conference room. Photo by Aaron Oberin

More than 45 years of service, and counting Poppell Insurance continues to meet the needs of Plant City. S to r y by B r i a n W e s t

Poppell Insurance has been in business since 1964. The business was founded by the late Tom Poppell. He was an insurance agent in Plant City who partnered with Red Harrell to form Harrell Poppell Insurance. They started with humble beginnings, working from the living room of Harrell’s mother’s home located on Martin Luther King Blvd. (formerly Haines Street). In 1964, Poppell bought Harrell’s portion of the business, and Plant City has been doing business with Poppell Insurance ever since. The company even has some customers that have been doing business with them since the business began. Bobby Arnold, Poppell’s college roommate, has been a client since he went into the insurance business. Today, brothers Mark and Jon Poppell run the day-to-day operations of the business. Mark has been working with the business full-time for 25 years and Jon for 22 years. Mark began working for the company full-time after graduating from the University of Florida in 1984, and Jon began working for the business

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

just a few years later, in 1987, while attending school at Florida Southern College. Both have fond memories of their father related to the business and how they got started working with him. Mark began working part-time in 1977 while he was attending high school. School was in double session at the time and when Mark was attending the afternoon session, he would walk from the office to a school bus stop near Courier Field. Jon recalls his father’s subtle nudge toward the business by suggesting that he work on the weekends to get his insurance license, and spending his first summer working with the company taking pictures of homes for homeowners policies. Poppell Insurance offers a complete range of products from three categories: personal (auto, home, boat), commercial / business insurance and group health, and the other policies like life insurance. They’re careful to point out that anyone looking for insurance shouldn’t just compare price, but rather compare coverage and the

Poppell Insurance isn’t hard to miss. Just look for the vibrant blue sign as you drive down Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Photo by Sophia Hyde

associated price, and take the time to sit down with the agent. While they represent insurance companies, they work for customers. Mark is quick to point out that his father used to say, “If you take care of your insured, the rest of the business will take care of itself.” Mark says, “It’s true. Because if you don’t, you won’t have any insured to worry about caring for.” They also point out that deductibles have changed during the past few years, and that people need to understand these differences. There was a time when one deductible would cover all property damage on a policy. Now there is a deductible for wind and hail written as a percentage, and a separate deductible for everything other than wind. Jon said, “Right now we’re thankful that the state of Florida hasn’t had an active hurricane season in a few years. So the insurance industry is beginning to heal. If we have

another active season this year, the healing will take longer.” Mark and Jon, and their staff, have extensive knowledge of the business and the industry. Combine that knowledge with an appreciation for the support from the community they serve, and you’ll find Poppell Insurance a great place to do business. If you’re looking for an insurance agent who can fill all of your insurance needs, give Poppell Insurance a call. They’re still located on Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., in almost the same location where the business began more that 45 years ago.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

business advice

ARE YOU NEGLECTING YOUR 403(b) PLAN? Are you a teacher? Or are you employed by a nonprofit organization? In either case, you may have a 403(b) retirement plan available to you. Your 403(b) is similar to 401(k) plans offered by companies, yet some evidence suggests that participation in 403(b) plans is lower than that found in 401(k)s. If you’re not taking advantage of your 403(b), you may want to reconsider — because your plan can provide a big boost to your retirement savings. If you’re not familiar with a 403(b), you’ll want to understand the key benefits: Tax-deferred earnings — Your money grows on a tax-deferred basis, which means it can accumulate faster than if it were placed in an investment on which you paid taxes every year. Pre-tax contributions — Typically, you fund your 403(b) with pre-tax dollars, so the more you put in, the lower your annual taxable income. (Some 403(b) plans may allow a Roth option, which allows your earnings to grow tax-free, provided you meet certain conditions. However, your contributions are made with after-tax dollars.) Variety of investment options — You should have a variety of investment choices with which to fund your 403(b), so you can build a portfolio that is appropriate for your risk tolerance and time horizon.

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Given these features, why aren’t more people participating in their 403(b) plans? One key reason seems to be that many eligible employees, especially teachers, also are covered by a pension plan — and they think a pension, combined with Social Security, may be enough to meet their retirement income goals. But that’s probably not true. You’ll likely need at least 80 percent of your working income during retirement — and that figure could easily

rise, depending on your retirement lifestyle. Consequently, you will need to exploit every single avenue of retirement savings — including your 403(b) plan. In 2009, you can defer up to $16,500 of your salary to a 403(b), plus an additional $5,500 if you’re 50 or older. You can put in another $3,000 if you have 15 or more years of service with a qualified organization and you contributed, on average, less than $5,000 a year to your 403(b) plan. Of course, you may not be able to put in the maximum annual amount to your 403(b) plan. But if your employer matches part of your contributions, you should at least consider contributing enough to earn the match — otherwise, you’re walking away from “free money.” While it’s often a good idea to contribute to your 403(b), you may find some extra challenges in 2009, because the rules governing 403(b) plans have changed. Previously, your plan may have allowed you to invest with several 403(b) providers, or “vendors,” and you could make tax-free transfers between them. Under new IRS rules, however, you can now move assets from one vendor to another only if both vendors are on your plan’s “approved” list. Consequently, many employers will likely reduce the number of 403(b) vendors and investment options, so you’ll have to evaluate the new “approved vendor” list to see which vendors would be most fitting for your financial goals. In any case, if you aren’t already contributing to your 403(b), start now. And if you already are participating in your plan, make sure you’re getting the most out of it — someday, you’ll be glad you did

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Brian West

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Background: I am the third generation of my family from Plant City, and I have lived here all my life. I am a graduate of Florida Southern College – Go Mocs! I am married to the former Jennifer Harber. She is the assistant principal for Alafia Elementary School in Bloomingdale. We have two beautiful children; Elizabeth is 5 and will be starting school in a few months, and Elijah will be 2 on May 11. I work for Publix Super Markets as the maintenance management program manager in our facilities department. In this role I am responsible for influencing effective maintenance of our systems and equipment in all of our retail locations. Our profit is pennies on the dollar, so we’re always looking for ways to improve. Aspirations: I’m always looking to be more involved, both at work and in our community. I’ve learned that I can make the biggest impact if I understand things at a detailed level, and how people, processes, and systems impact one another. Like anyone else, the struggle is always finding the time. Unfortunately, I learn everything the hard way and you can spread yourself too thin and not be effective. At the end of the day I just want to know that I somehow made a difference. Inspiration: I can be inspired by almost anything. I remember having a conversation with Elizabeth when she was about 3 years old. She asked, “Daddy, why is your hair brown?” I told her that was the color God gave me. Realizing she was noticing hair color, I decided to make a game of it. One by one, I asked her what color

hair each of the people in our family have. Her Uncle Jay is bald, so I saved him for last. When I asked her what color his hair was, with her little girl giggle she said, “Daddy, you’re so silly. Uncle Jay doesn’t have hair.” Then she described her own hair color as “bright and shiny.” The whole conversation was such a great example of the innocence of a child. It really inspired me to be a better dad. I’d love to have those types of experiences with my children throughout their lives. Why I am a success: I’m not comfortable with the “successful person” label. I’ve had some successes, and I’ve had some luck, but I’ve learned that you learn more from your failures, and I’ve had those too – too many to mention. I just don’t give up. Once I make my mind up that I’m going to do something, I do it. If someone tells me I can’t do it, it just fuels my fire. What’s next? Breakfast! Anyone interested in Chick-fil-A Chick-nMinis?

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He has been in Plant City for awhile, and he shares what makes him successful here. Background: I was born and raised in Plant City. Graduated from Plant City High School, attended Texas Western College and the University of Tampa. Spent over 30 years in broadcasting as co-owner of WPLA Radio Station in Plant City. Aspirations: In these later years of my life I want to continue serving my community in whatever area that may be beneficial. Being a member of the Strawberry Festival Board of Directors as well as the greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Board is not only an honor, but it gives me a sense of responsibility. I hope I never burn out and can stay healthy enough to always be a part of the activities that keep our city on the move. Inspirations: I am inspired with all

the opportunities that are around me. It seems I never get caught up. From one project to another, and each with an individual challenge that keeps me on the go. I have been blessed with a wife that has always supported me during our 51 years of marriage, and three wonderful children, Kellie, Lori, and Karen. All together they give me enough inspiration to last a million life times. Why I am a success: Some people measure success by the balance in their bank account. I have always thought of success as being the result of doing the things you want to do. Albert Schweitzer said it best: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” I guess I am successful, as I love what I am doing. What’s next? I have numerous projects on the drawing board so to speak. I don’t think I will ever retire to the couch and TV. For me that would be certain death, and I’m not ready to go! I plan to take God along with me as my partner in any venture that may come along. Frankly, I am excited about what the future holds for me.

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

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CAN’T AFFORD TO BUY? Own this 3Bd/2Ba home for less than rent! Cathedral ceilings makes the appeal of small with the impact of big. Kitchen features all appliances & inside laundry rm. Gentle breezes through the tree tops will be your lullaby in the porch of the North Lakeland home. $80,000. #20

WELCOME HOME - Pretty as a picture & beautifully maintained on 1.17 AC, this quiet retreat is just what you need! 3Bd/2Ba, carport, sheds, deep well & more. Only $89,900. #88

ADORABLE AND AFFORDABLE – 3Bd/2Ba, minutes from I-4 and HCC. Family friendly starter or retiree home on large fenced lot with appliances. This short sale won’t last long at only $94,900. #29

STEAL THIS DEAL - You save on this this 3Bd/2Ba w/miles of tile, wood fence, 2 c gar, nearly 1600 SF, pre-foreclosure, vacant. $119,900. #43

POOL’S ALWAYS OPEN – For your enjoyment, built in 2001, 1732 SF custom home on 1.78 ac offers 3Bd/2Ba, huge great rm, formal DR w/gleaming hardwood floors. Custom kitchen w/corian counters & upgraded appliances. Quick dip in pool & enjoy quiet evenings on your country retreat! A steal at only $238,000. #61

RENTALS

REDUCED, REDUCED, REDUCED! Room enough for a horse w/tack room shed on this 1.48 acres located in Plant City. 3Bd/2Ba, 1788 SF w/FR, LR. Neat, clean & shows well! Only $1250/Month. Call for more info WALDEN LAKE RENTAL 4BD/2BA, like new! Completely remodeled 2400 SF (mol) new cabinets, new carpet and new appliances. Outdoor kitchen with huge pool & spa. $1899/Month. Must See! BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED HOME - 3Bd/4Ba, 3251 SF features tons of beautiful crown molding & Wainscot throughout the home. Lg kitchen is perfect for entertaining w/cherry wood cabinets & granite countertops. HUBBA HUBBA …guys you will LOVE the large media rm w/kitchenette, perfect for any sports fan. Screened heated pool & spa is perfect for a summer swim. Priced at $485,000. #30

COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY! Downtown Plant City, 2949 SF, 6 unit 1Bd/1Ba Apt. Bldg., possible for offices, medical. Zoned C1 this ½ city block has extra lot! A great investment @ $169,000.#47

ACREAGE & COMMERCIAL ALEXANDER ST With over 1349 SF on YMCA Dr, 345 FT on Mud Lake Rd & Alexander St, this is the ideal site for Multi-Family, ACLF, Medical Facility and more! Zoned CU - 7.25 acres just North of New YMCA! Asking $1,600,000 #34 PRIME 10 ACRES OF BEAUTIFUL LAND – Priced to sell at only $182,500 – Owner says sell! 330ft mol of road frontage & possibly of 3 parcels. A steal is yours, cleared w/gorgeous trees, fenced & ready for you & your Family. #59 FARM OR DEVELOP 7.31 AC, fronts on US Hwy 92 & Glen Harwell Rd., great access to I-4. 6“ well is suberb for berries or home. A great value @ $395.000. #2 2 ACRES LAMPP RD - WILL LIGHT YOUR FIRE! Beautiful serene country setting awaits plans for a new home. Minutes from I-4. REDUCED to $84,900. #7 KEEP THE DISTANCE No back door neighbors w/nearly 5 ac in Thonotosassa, 660 ft. road frontage you‘ll place dream home in middle! A STEAL @ $216,900. #22 ENTRY TO WALDEN LAKE! Don’t miss this opportunity! 8.92 Ac, ideal for church, development, south of new YMCA, is pretty, high and dry! Additional sites adjoin parcel and are available. $895,000. #65

CHARMING BUNGALOW FOR RENT Delightful 3Bd, w/Family rm, lovely hardwood floors. You’ll enjoy almost 1/2 acre on on fully fenced corner lot. Single car, detached garage is great for storage. $1100/Month. RENTAL – Maryland Ave., neat, clean 3Bd/2Ba, 1400 SF, window units, nice convenient area in Plant City. Only $750/Month.

Seller’s Pain Can Be Your Gain - We are working for you in the Best of Times & the Worst of Times. Bank Owned Homes & Short Sale Specialist - You can find a Steal of a Deal Here! Call Vogel Realty & Consider “It” Sold!

(813) 659-3306

www.vogelrealtyservices.com

Dedicated to the Value of Home & Family.

JUST LISTED

Rich heritage is found in this 1908 classic that is completely remodeled with new wiring and fresh paint. Two-story 5 BR/3 BA with over 3800 SF living, 4 fireplaces, 2 clawfoot tubs, heart of pine wood floors, security system...and the list goes on! The infamous “Lion House” sits on a corner lot with a courtyard fountain area overlooking the brick streets of the historic district. $439,000. MLS#T2366167.

CAMBRIDGE COVE

Custom built 5,200+ sq.ft. home with beautiful lake & golf course view. Formal living/dining room features Brazilian Mahogany floors. Lush tropical pool area w/spa & outdoor kitchen is perfect for entertaining along w/ theater room . Huge kitchen w/double ovens, an island & breakfast nook. $599,000. MLS #T2338175

13 ACRES MOL

8-stall barn w/tack & feed rms, water + electric. Fenced & crossfenced. Pond. 3922sq.ft, 2-story, custom-built home w/4 BR & 3.5 BA. Kitchen remodel just completed w/granite counters. Master bath remodeled w/ new counters, mirrors & fixtures. Formal living & dining areas, family rm w/wood-burning fireplace & huge bonus rm. Inside laundry/storage rm. Oversized screened pool area & lots of storage areas. $634,848. MLS #T2311859.

NDI

PE ACT

CON

ON THE 16TH HOLE

Beautiful two-story 4 BR/3 BA/3+CG home on the golfcourse with over 2800 SF living area and garden bath in master suite. PLUS solar heated pool in oversized lanai that has a nice outdoor grilling area for summer parties. $375,000. MLS#T2348609.

HIGH TRAFFIC AREA Commercial building located near hospital and I-4. Currently in the remodel stage. Buy now and customize for your particular business. $375,000. MLS#T2330860.

PINEDALE

Unique 3 BR/2 BA brick home with wonderfully shaded 1/2 acre yard situated in family neighborhood-no HOA fees. Home features 2300+ SF living, brick fireplace and lots of room to entertain for family & friends. $209,900. MLS#T2313351

THE PRESERVES

On the golf course - 2 BR/2.5 BA condo in gated community of Walden Lake. Home features lots of upgrades in over 2000 SF living plus new A/C in 2007, brick paver patio, Jacuzzi tub in master and so much more. Now $215,000. MLS#T2351536

NDI

PE ACT

CON

PERFECT FAMILY HOME

CONTRACT PENDING IN 2 DAYS! 3 BR/2 BA/2 CG block home w/over 1400 SF living, fireplace and more. 1+ acre covered in oak trees plus a detached shop/garage for the hobby lover. $179,900. MLS#T2359788.

SOLD SOLD SOLD IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY

Remodeled 3 BR/2 BA with over 1700 SF living and refinished original wood floors. Situated on a large wooded lot inside the city limits. Ready to move on in! $135,000. MLS#T2359399.

3 BR/2.5BA brick home with side-entry 2 CG, over 2600 SF living, hardwood floors, split bedroom plan and much more. Sits on oversized lot with beautiful landscaping in friendly established neighborhood convenient to everything. Move right in! $209,900. MLS#T2354681.

ATTENTION INVESTORS Commercial office and warehouse building with 5,000 total Square Feet and 4,000 Square Feet heated and cooled. Extra lots totaling .8 acres. Zoned C1 and M1. Now only $300,000

LAND • LAND • LAND • LAND HOLLOWAY RD-PLANT CITY

SLEEPY HOLLOW RD-PLANT CITY

S WIGGINS RD-PLANT CITY

E TERRACE DR-PLANT CITY

SOUTHWIND DR-MULBERRY

ROLLING VISTA LP

1.3 acres in Stone Hedge subdivision-waiting for One acre with oak trees off Knights Griffin Rd-some 4 acres on Wiggins Rd with pond. Great location for your new home and some privacy too! Great buy at only your dream home to be built. Reduced to $84,900. deed restrictions. $69,900. MLS#T2318671. $125,000. MLS#T2334292. MLS#T2347973 1.68 acres in area of newer homes convenient to I-4. Building lot with access to secluded air strip for the pilot in Perfect building lot in new community of larger homes. Restricted to homes of 2000 SF or more. Owner Financ- you-build your own hanger. $49,900. MLS#T2333753. Ready for your dream home of 2400 SF living or more. ing Available. $72,500. MLS#T2339873. $69,900. MLS#T2324771

Jimmie Robinson - 813-754-3586 ext 222 RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

1513 J. L. Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33563

www.ﬂoridamoves.com/jimmie.robinson

E-mail: Jimmie.Robinson@floridamoves.com • toll free 1-877-442-7001

foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

real estate walden lake review construction of the new office and maintenance buildings. You will be allowed to pay half the amount in July and half in January, or you will have the option to pay the full amount. For Class A lots, the one-time assessment is $90. Marlene Merrin is working hard and may soon be working on the enforcement of deed restrictions for another community in Walden Lake. That will bring the total to 12 out of the 32 neighborhoods relying on her to be sure the residents in those communities remain in compliance with and Karen Olsen was re-elected their deed restrictions. treasurer. The supplies have been ordered for The board voted to have a flower me- the dog park, and we should begin morial again this year at the Memorial to see construction soon. The BuildDay Service at the VFW, honoring the ing and Planning Committee will service men and women from Walden be meeting to finalize their plans Lake. Following the service, a flower on the new office and maintenance memorial will be placed at the front buildings. entrance to Walden Lake. Book those graduation parties, A letter will be included in your class reunions, pool parties, corporate July semiannual statement, outlin- picnics, and more at the Walden Lake ing the one-time assessment for the Golf and Country Club. Summer

Board members decided S u b m i t t e d by N ata l i e S w e e t

The Walden Lake Community Association Meetings are the third Monday of each month. The next meeting will be May 18, at 6 p.m., with a presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meeting at 7:30 p.m. At the recent meeting, the board welcomed Jim Chancey as the newest director on the board. The board also elected the officers for 2009-2010. Jan Griffin was re-elected as president, Marcus Alexich was elected vice president, Frank Salerno as secretary,

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

camps and golf specials are available. Call Michele Newsome at (813) 7521171 extension 222 for all your event and membership needs. Committees were set up for the upcoming year and are as follows: Budget, Finance, and Job Descriptions Committee. Led by Karen Olson. Building and Development Committee L. Led by Bob Williamson Landscaping and Safety Committee. Led by Jan Griffin Newsletter/Web site Committee . Led by Frank Salerno Planning, Reserve, Plan Committee. Led by Greg Horwedel Community Involvement and Vandalism Committee. Led by Glen Allen Polo Field Committee. Led by Marcus Alexich Enforcement of Covenants Committee. Led by Jack Wolff Nominating Committee. Led by Jim Chancey

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Several mon ths mine and said ago, I was talking with a co that I was fr ustrated wit lle ague of Company Re h Mortgage presentativ es. I found t uncaring, an hem to be un d not very kn friendly, owledgeable “You should . My colleag contact Nat u e said, e Davis. He is ker at Plant a Mortgage City Mortga Broge. You will fi helpful and h nd him to be e st very the whole pro ays involved with you pe rsonally thro cess of your ugh mortgage lo an. I took my co lleague’s advi ce and called experience w Nate Davis. ith Nate has My been exhilara someone wh ting. I neede o would take d a p and Nate wa ersonal inte rest on my b s the person ehalf who charge imme diately. He ke filled that void. H e too k pt me inform saving me a ed daily while lot of money. To say that Davis is an u I recommend nderstatem Nate ent. Anyone vis will not b who uses Na e disappoint t e e Dad but will rece customer se ive extraord rvice. inary - G. Herringt on foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

Renee CoRzine

real estate mortgage

KeLLeR WILLIaMS

Realtor Multi-Million Dollar Producer

1607 S. Alexander Street • Suite 102

813-716-6007

rcorzine@tampabay.rr.com

OUTSTANDING

$235,000

3/2/2, 1871 SF, Granite, Move-In Ready, Solar Heated Pool, Fruit Trees, Fenced

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$175,000

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Don’t buy those shoes, it can hurt your credit score! S u b m i t t e d by N at e D av i s

Did you know that the available balance on your revolving lines of credit can impact your credit score? A factor in credit scoring called “debt to available debt”, or “proportion of balances to credit limit” can have a big impact on your score. Besides timely payments, another way to boost your credit score is to pay your credit card balances to approximately 20 percent of the available balance, or request that your limit be increased so that your balance is now 20 percent or less than the available limit. It does not have to be 20 percent, but generally, the closer you are, the better your score will be. This is where is gets nasty with credit card companies and home equity loans. Let’s say you have a credit card with a balance of $4,000 and the

limit is $12,000. Your debt to available debt is 4,000/12,000 = 33.3 percent. Not too bad. Now, imagine that your credit card company, like many, either freezes your card or simply reduces the available limit on your card to a maximum of $5,000. You are making the same payments, have the same balance, and are not late. Guess what happens to your credit score as a result of this line decrease? You guessed it. This would have a negative impact on your score because your debt to available debt is now worse since you are utilizing 80 percent of your available debt, versus the original scenario of 33.3 percent. While you can’t change the system, it always pays to be aware of the implications of yours or others actions with your credit.

www.thefocusmagazine.com MAGAZINE

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563

813.707.8783 office

813.764.0990 fax

foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

real estate BuYing and selling

Short Sale Update S U b M i t t e d by J o - a n lU S K

It is a part of practically every conversation that has anything to do with real estate: short sale. Many homes on the market today are sold subject to lender approval, necessitating a short sale. The process of selling or buying a short sale property is certainly not for the faint of heart. A short sale is the process of selling a home in which the balance of the mortgage(s) is more than the current market (appraised) value, creating a “short sale.” Typically, and more common today, the seller is not financially able to bring the difference between those amounts to the closing table. Therefore, the lender(s) must approve the short sale, either forgiving the difference or requiring a promissory note for the difference. Here are a few debunked myths about short sales:

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

a reasonable price, reflecting the current Fair Market Value and that the offer submitted is at or close to current FMV. To find out if you are eligible for help, via the president’s home affordability program, go to http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov. You can find out if you have a government-backed loan by going to www.loanlookup.fanniemae.com. Talk to an attorney and an accountant, as well as a real estate professional.

BEWARE of scams: • There is never a fee to get assistance or information about making a home affordable from your lender or a HUD-approved housing counselor. • Beware of any person or organization that asks you to pay a fee in exchange for housing counseling • MYTH: Lenders will not services or modification of a deaccept short sales unless borlinquent loan. Do not pay – walk rower is behind in payments. away! FACT: When payments are • Beware of anyone who says they current, show VALID hardcan save your home if you sign ship. Clarify that payments will or transfer over the deed to your eventually be missed if short sale house. Do not sign over the deed is not approved. to your property to any organiza• MYTH: Lender will not accept tion or individual unless you an offer below Fair Market Value. are working directly with your FACT: Lender will accept 88 mortgage company to forgive percent to 93 percent of current your debt. FMV. • Never submit your mortgage • MYTH: Lenders need to payments to anyone other than see the property was listed at your mortgage company without full market value for a while. their approval. FACT: Lender simply wants to see that you listed the property at

Team Wainoris...Selling Plant City and Lakeland

Randall & Kathleen Wainoris

813-997-3000 863-608-1557

REALTOR® / Attorney at Law

REALTOR® / Notary

OVER 2 ACRES!

Incredible 4 bedroom, 3 bath pool home with 30x36 ft workshop. Large country kitchen. Formal L/R with ﬁreplace. 4th bedroom with separate entrance: possible ofﬁce/in-law suite. Great location, asking just $299,000.

sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com

Multi-Million Dollar Producers

BRING THE FAMILY Lakeland Highlands area: 5 bedroom pool home with breathtaking views. Great schools, and just minutes to Polk Parkway and shopping. Price reduced to just $249,000.

863-688-2822

TOLL FREE: 888-488-2822 • FAX 813-659-0196

PANORAMIC WATER VIEWS! Incredible 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath pool home with spectacular waterfront views from virtually every room. Tremendous pool area with water falls and outdoor kitchen. Enormous master suite with sitting area and ﬁreplace overlooking Walden Lake. Volume ceilings, gourmet kitchen, 2 wine cellars and custom wood work throughout. Asking just $879,000.

REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE by Randall Wainoris, JD, MBA

WANTED: YOUR HOUSE! WATERFRONT PROPERTY

Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home directly on Lake Parker. Property includes ﬁshing pier and boat ramp. Large F/R, L/R w/ ﬁreplace. Huge deck overlooking water. Reduced to $247,000.

KNIGHTS GRIFFIN ROAD

Wonderfully maintained manufactured home on beautiful one acre lot surrounded by premium homes. No deed restrictions. Reduced to just $119,000.

SANDPIPER BEAUTY Beautiful renovated home in Sandpiper Golf & Country Club. Gourmet kitchen and baths with wood cabinets and granite counters. Volume ceilings and large Florida room. Asking $149,000.

MOTHER/DAUGHTER ON AN ACRE

Completely renovated pool home on beautiful property in Plant City. New granite kitchen, formal LR/DR, family room w/ stone ﬁre place, 4 bed/2.5 bath plus In-Law suite with add’l bedroom, living room, bath and kitchen. Reduced to $349,000.

NEED SPACE?

Beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 full bath Lakeland pool home. Over 2800 feet of living area. Asking $229,000.

BRING THE HORSES

Enjoy country living in beautiful Plant City. 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home with bonus room, l/r, d/r, f/r and huge country kitchen. Wonderful fenced property with multiple out buildings, shed, and large deck with pool! Reduced to just $136,500.

Over the last few months, we have had many buyers come to us and try to buy their first home. Believe it or not: the financing is the easy part! We work with many wonderful lenders who have lots of money to loan; so that is not the problem! Since Uncle Sam is offering an $8,000 tax credit to many first time buyers; these folks are ready to spend! So what is the problem? With all of these great incentives: there seem to be more first time buyers out there in the market than there are nice listings to sell! So here is where you come in: we need your house to sell! Yes, in today’s market, if you have an entry level home, Team Wainoris has buyers. So if you were thinking about maybe selling your current home or possibly buying that dream home out in the country: now is the time! Interest rates are at all time lows! Housing prices in our local market seem to be stabilizing. While Uncle Sam is still handing out cash to first time buyers; now is the time to take advantage of these incentives. Were you thinking about selling your home but were worried that you could never sell? Call us here at Team Wainoris and we will show you why now a great time to make your move! *Please consult your tax advisor for your individual tax considerations.

Exit Realty is Growing WWW.TEAMWAINORIS.COM

C12 Now in Plant City Christian Business Leaders The best thing you can do for your business is leave it for a day.

“Are you serious?” The benefits of lifelong learning and sharpening ideas with 10-15 peer Christian chief executives one day each month are profound. Using C12’s proven model and resources, you’ll be challenged to truly apply God’s Word and best-in-class business practices as you engage with like-minded peers focused on high-level business performance. Coupled with a monthly one-on-one coaching consultation, this is designed to help you lead with excellence and eternal impact. To discover “The C12 Advantage,” visit www.C12Group.com where you’ll find information about becoming a C12 member or C12 Chair for your area. In our 17th year, with more than 65 groups meeting in 48 metro areas across America, The C12 Group is advancing the Kingdom by helping business leaders live out Scriptural values while building thriving businesses with real ministry impact.

The C12 Difference™

Financial ROI + Kingdom ROI

The C12 Group requests the honor of your presence at a Complimentary Meeting June 10, 2009 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Holiday Inn Express Don’t miss the opportunity to become a part of this Plant City Roundtable of Christian CEO’s *Lunch Provided

RSVP (813) 991-6482 www.tampabay.c12group.com

Scott Hitchcock, Tampa Bay Area Chair • (813) 991-6482 may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com www.c12group.com

��

foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

sports moment as a coach came in 2000, when he helped lead the Raiders girls soccer team to the state championships while picking up their first district championship along the way. Life also comes hard. “Going through the chemotherapy was the hardest thing that I’ve ever had to do. I’ve been so sick,” Storter said. The good news is the leukemia is now in remission and the prospects for the future are encouraging. It will be a while before Storter gets back to his passions. Right now, he has to stay close to home. His blood count is so low that he cannot have many visitors and he is too weak to interact with his girls, Taryn and Hope. All that will change, however, as he regains his strength while rehabbing at home. Fortunately, life also comes with grace. In spite of the illness, Storter’s blessings have been plentiful. PCHS coach Mike Storter holds on to his faith while battling leukemia. Storter is pictured with his loving wife, Laura, and his two daughters, Taryn “My faith has gotten strong,” Storter and Hope. Photo courtesy of Mike Storter said. “My quiet times have been intense. My faith in the Lord has sustained me. Everyone has been wonderful. My family has been amazing, and my friends have been wonderful. They have brought meals, mowed my yard, and babysat my girls. S to r y by J o e B o w l e s Raiders head football coach Todd Without my family, my friends, and Life can come at you fast. Such was that time, he lost 40 pounds from his Long, Storter coached the wide receiv- my faith, I couldn’t even imaging trythe case for Plant City High School’s 6’4’, formerly 220-pound frame. ers and became the video coordinator. ing to deal with everything that I’ve coach Mike Storter when, in FebruBefore February, life had been rela- He has also coached girls’ soccer, gone through.” ary, he went to the emergency room tively comfortable. Storter, a native of track, and cross-country. His proudest with chest pains and found out that Naples, met his wife, Laura Davis – a he had leukemia. CT scans revealed Plant City native – when they were a mass in his chest. Because the mass students at the University of Florida. is an accumulation of leukemic cells, Storter later graduated from Palm surgery was not an option. In one Beach Atlantic College with a degree day, life for the Storter family became in physical education. Feeling a call to drastically different. the ministry, Storter went to South“At first it was surreal,” Storter said. western Baptist Theological Seminary, “I thought I was having heart problems. where he graduated in 1993 with a I never dreamed that it could have been master’s degree in religious education. something like leukemia. I thought, Later that year, Storter joined the ‘Is this really happening to me?’” ministerial staff at First Baptist Church Storter, a physical education teacher in Plant City and has been a part-time and coach, has been inundated with staff member ever since, while holding well wishing by friends who have down full-time positions at Marshall been a great support system for him Middle School and Plant City High and his family as he goes through his School. He is presently the church’s treatments. He recently completed minister to college students. eight weeks of chemotherapy at MofMinistry and sports are Storter’s Mike Storter coached the PCHS girls soccer team to its first division title. In this picture, the team fit Cancer Center, in Tampa. During passions. For seven years under proudly holds the trophy. Photo courtesy of Mike Storter

Life comes at you fast Family, friends, and faith sustain coach Mike Storter.

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

sports BaseBall

Andy Knotts congratulates Kyle Madill for being the athlete of the month. Photo by Kasey Miller

901 West Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Plant City, Florida (813) 754-2588

SCREEN PRINTING · EMBROIDERY · LETTERMAN JACKETS · SPORTS EQUIPMENT

The heart of a competitor Kyle Madill named to All-Conference Team. S to r y by J o e b o W l e S

When Plant City High School junior Kyle Madill was named to the first team All-Western Conference, it may have been a surprise to him but it should not have been a surprise to anyone who had watched him play this year. Madill’s bat spoke loud and often as he rapped out 30 hits in 24 games, leading the Raiders baseball team in most offensive categories while splitting time between shortstop

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

and second base. Madill began playing baseball with Plant City Little League at the age of 5. His father, Duane, was his first coach. He continued to coach Madill through little league and later with his travel ball team, the Plant City Red Sox. Madill’s family also includes his mother, Linda, and his sister, Kayla, a PCHS freshman. “Kyle has always had the heart of a

competitor and the pressure doesn’t seem to bother him,” Duane said. “I’ve had him in some critical situations and he always handles it with calmness.” Madill handles a bat just like he handles pressure. This year 11 of his 30 hits went for extra bases. He batted .375 and slugged nearly .600, while reaching base nearly half the time at the plate. Not bad for someone facing some of the toughest pitching in one of the toughest districts in the state. His coach, Mike Sodders, expressed high praise for Madill. “He is a special player,” Sodders said. “Whenever we needed a hit, or if we needed to move a runner over, or if we needed a sacrifice fly, if I explained to him what we needed, he always seemed to come through.” Others around the conference have taken note of his bat control as well. He can hit to all fields, has power, and rarely has a bad at bat. It would have been hard to improve on last year’s numbers – a .367 batting average – but Madill set some personal goals at the beginning of the year and surpassed most of those goals to achieve the best offensive season at Plant City in recent years. Madill is not only adept on the

diamond, but he also is equally proficient on the court. At 11, he taught himself to play tennis and quickly became a ranked junior player. Last summer, he competed in the United States Tennis Association’s 18-andunder team tennis events, helping lead the Plant City Raiders to a state title and a ninth place finish in nationals. This spring, he played for the high school Raiders and only suffered two defeats, including one in district competition to the eventual state champion. Those who know Madill will agree that, although he is talented on the baseball field, he doesn’t take his talent for granted. He is one of the hardest working players, taking extra ground balls and spending extra time in the batting cage. This summer will introduce one of the most important times in Madill’s baseball journey, as he participates in some scouting events and showcase tournaments leading up to his senior year as a Raider. He would like to play baseball in college, as he studies for a profession in the medical field. After witnessing what Madill has accomplished these past two seasons, no one should be surprised anymore at what the future may hold.

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6:30 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. Contact Brittany Lara or Amy Reynolds at 813-707-1060 x 4213 1104 W. Cason St. Plant City, FL 33563 foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

Elite Home Fitness Get in the Best Shape of Your Life

WE HATE OUR TRAINER. BUT WE LOVE THE RESULTS! Many Americans have the desire to get in shape, but the idea of joining a gym and disciplining themselves to go frequently prevents them from moving forward. Mike realizes people need convenience and accountability if they are going to live a healthy lifestyle. After 17 years experience in fitness clubs and personal training, Mike decided to start a different style of personal training, which has proven to be successful for many people in Plant City. Elite Home Fitness is a unique style of personal training where the trainer brings the workout to you at home. The program is completely personalized and designed to fit around your schedule. No matter how early or late, you can arrange to have a fitness program brought to your doorstep. Some appointments are as early as 5 a.m., others as late as 9 p.m. The wonderful thing about having a personal trainer come to your house is that you know you cannot make up excuses for not going to work out. If you have a set appointment for someone to come to your home, you will most likely be ready and accountable.

“Life is more fun when you’re in shape” - Cathy Evans

When you decide to use Elite Home Fitness, the first thing you will notice is Mike is not just your personal trainer; he becomes a friend. The added benefits of having a fun and up-beat personality as your trainer make the work out less dreadful. Mike will push you to your limit and help you get the results you are looking for. “I can help people get into the best shape of their lives,” said Mike. However, to truly make a strong difference in your life, the changes cannot be solely physical. Although working out is a necessity, Mike also encourages his clients to keep a nutrition diary. He provides his clients with nutrition counseling so they can eat healthy, feel confident and look great. “I’ve helped people lose 60+ pounds,” said Mike. Mike can train all ages, shapes and sizes. You will certainly experience results with the one-on-one personal attention he can provide. Couples-training is also available where Mike can train both husband and wife at the same time so they can get in shape together. In today’s world, everyone is short on time and heavily burdened with stress. This is a great way to relieve stress, gain energy and lose weight without inconveniencing your schedule. The workout usually lasts between 45-60 minutes. Each workout is designed personally for each client, including cardio, toning, strength training and stretching. “The reason I do fitness is because it is a gratifying business,” said Mike, “I get to help change people’s lives for the better and help them to enjoy life more. It makes you feel good when you help others feel good.” If you have been procrastinating on getting in shape, you are really running out of excuses now. It’s time to make a change in your life and have fun doing it!

Call Elite Home Fitness today at 813-786-1541. 90

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Hometown Attorneys Working For You Personal Injury

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extra

Seniors of the

Month Zaxby’s Plant City • 2901 ½ James L. Redman Pkwy. Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.752.1971 call in orders

Jose Leon and Victoria Capezza S to r y by K a s e y M i l l e r

Jose Leon and Victoria Capezza show outstanding performance in their academics, as well as the various activities they are both involved with at school. Both of these seniors are seen as exceptional students with positive, self-motivating attitudes throughout all four years of their high school experiences. This is why they are the seniors of the month for March. Senior of the Month is not just an honorable title, but it also enables these selected senior students to be a part of the 2009 Prom King and Queen Court. However, it requires each participating senior to submit a formal resume showing his/her past activities since ninth grade and a list or essay explaining the activities they were involved in for the month applied. Although being selected as a candidate on the prom court is exciting, many of the past winners remarked that it was more of the significance and respect gained from the title that was most rewarding. “I’ve always seen it as a huge honor because only 24 seniors out of our 500 senior class students are recognized,”

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

said Capezza. “I feel extremely proud, and I hope that I represent the senior class well.” Capezza is the valedictorian for the class of 2009, and she has also been a dedicated athlete and an active volunteer for many service clubs and community projects. She has played on the varsity basketball team all four years of high school and completed this past season as a captain. Furthermore, she is the president of the science club, and a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Best Buddies, Future Business Leaders of America, and Academic team. She was recognized as the Plant City High Scholar Athlete for the past three years and was presented with the 2008 Wendy’s Heisman Award. She has also put in many service hours with the Juniorettes’ Diabetes Research Foundation and has participated in cleanups for the Hillsborough River and International Coast. Leon represents the senior title with much pride, as well, with all the extra effort he has put into school work and extracurricular activities. He has been

a part of the junior varsity football team and devoted much of his time to many clubs and organizations, such as NHS, Science club, and an officer of the Key Club. During his time as a Key Club officer, Leon has attended monthly officer meetings where they discuss things like the club status and activities for the month. He has

also been participating in a nonprofit organization called Jerry’s Kids, where he sells shamrocks during his school lunch period in order to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. In addition, he volunteered to work the Strawberry Shortcake booth for the East Hillsborough Historical Society.

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extra Al ruechel

Our baby is getting married S u b m i t t e d by a l r u e c h e l

I’m looking at her pictures on my desk and I can’t believe it. She’s 5, no 8, no 13, no 18 and graduating from high school. Her picture is framed in the words, “I love my dad,” on a handmade candy jar, embracing her

youngest brother after the prom. The guy she is marrying is terrific, almost like my third son. There we are during a charity ride for the MS society. We’ve known him for years. They’re going to be crazy-in-love

Photo courtesy Angela Sackett, www.lovinglegacyphotography.com

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

happy, just like me and my wife. Our baby’s getting married in June. You know how you tell yourself you’re not going to let your daughter date until she’s 16? I guess technically she didn’t, although she’s known her fiancé for years, first as a friend and then as a romantic interest. They both always knew they would get married. So did we. Our baby’s getting married in June. We tried to convince her she should wait until after graduate school. Privately, I think we wanted to buy some more time to have her under our wings just a bit longer. Hey, this is the little helpless thing that just spent a summer in Spain traveling all over the place, negotiating plane tickets after a strike in Italy left her stranded, mastering the Spanish language as if she was born with it. Our baby’s getting married in June. She has always been smart. She knows how to control good ole dad with her smile. Did we ever have to tell her to do her homework? “Hey, dad!” Guess what,” she told me on the phone last week. “I’m one of the valedictorians in my UF graduating class this May.” What? I mean, I knew she was doing well but to be the top of her class amidst 8,000 other graduates… Unreal. Our baby’s getting married in June. She was looking at wedding gowns a couple of months ago. She fell in love with this beautiful creation my wife says looked like she was born in it; it is stunning and expensive. She found another dress that looks a lot like the high-priced version but half the cost. “I’ll just get the cheaper one,” she said. “It really doesn’t matter.” I bought her the more expensive version. She was so surprised. She deserves the best because she doesn’t expect or command it. Our baby’s getting married in June. She comes from great stock. Her two brothers and older sister are

incredible. I’m looking at a picture of the four, dressed in their different colored raincoats on our porch, with smiles as big as rainbows. They’ve always been surrounded in love and returned it so freely to so many of their friends. Our baby’s getting married in June. She tells me she and her fiancé want to get involved in helping young girls from Moldavia who are kidnapped by the Russian mafia exploited when they turn 16. That shouldn’t surprise me considering her involvement with a missionary in El Salvador and his family. Their little, adopted Salvadoran girl is in her wedding party. Our baby’s getting married in June. Yes, she has perfect posture. Part of her back is frozen into place by stainless steel rods to correct the scoliosis of the spine. Never has a father been closer to his daughter as she lay recovering from her surgery, the pulsating sound of the device measuring her blood’s oxygen content beeping every 15 seconds. She never complained; she took herself off of painkillers just hours after the surgery, and has never looked back since. Our baby’s getting married in June. She is everything and more a father could have asked or dreamed in a daughter, her older sister proving it is possible to be blessed with two living and breathing angels. She has the heart of David, the faithfulness of Ruth, and the fire of Paul. She loves Jesus as her Abba father and at times puts my lack of faith to shame. Our baby’s getting married in June. Of course, I’ll cry when she walks down the aisle, when they sing her wedding march song, when I present her to her future husband. I’ll clutch my wife’s hand and won’t even try to hold back the tears for fear of bursting right there in the front row. They’ll both say I do. They’ll kiss and quickly breeze by on their way to a storybook beginning. And that’s the way it should be… when our baby gets married in June.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

Thank you to Plant City mail carriers and community for supporting the

May 9th Mail Carrier Food Drive Last year, the United Food Bank served 12,848 clients . . . a 36% increase over 2007 Your support of food donations enables us to continue to meet this incredible need and ensure that no one goes hungry in our community.

United Food Bank

712 E. Alsobrook Street, Suite 9 Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 764-0625 â&#x20AC;˘ www.ufbpc.org Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri - 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Tues, Thurs - 1:30 - 5:30 pm

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Win A House Essay Contest by the Danley Family Trust Free and Clear

Win This House!!! 7905 Pierce Harwell Rd. Plant City, FL 33565 Centrally located for all of the Tampa Bay Area 2 acres (MOL) landscaped beautifully Approximately 6000 sq feet of living space ● Beautiful country setting ● Two story with big pool area ● Huge road frontage ● Mother-in-law suite ● 5 Bedrooms, 6½ bath ● Game room ● 2 ½ car garage plus a 2 car garage / workshop $500 Entry Fee only ﬁrst 15,000 essays will be accepted

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Call Gerald Danley for complete details: (813) 230-2691 foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

dining profile

Their house is everyone’s house Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant serves up fantastic food in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere that’s fun for all. S to r y by K e v i n ta l l

Cinco de Mayo has come and gone, but life still holds plenty of reasons to enjoy great Mexican fare and good times. People planning on pleasing their palates are sure to be satisfied if they go to Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant in Plant City. The restaurant immediately sets the tone for enjoyment with bright colors, smiling faces, and irresistibly catchy music. The tables and chairs in the dining and cantina areas beckon diners and invite everyone to have a good time. The white queso is a great way to start a meal with the complimentary chips and salsa. Manager Hector Martinez said it is a popular starter and that sometimes people fi ll up on chips and queso and end up having to get their entrees to go.

Mi Casa serves up some delicious beverages as well. The Mi Casa Margarita is a refreshing blend of Sauza Conmemorativo tequila with Presidente brandy, Cointreau, and sour mix served on the rocks. Photo by Kevin Tall

may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Mi Casa’s menu offers an extensive selection of traditional Mexican dishes. Martinez said the fajitas and enchiladas are some of the most popular menu items and there are several ways to enjoy these favorites. He enjoys the Tacos al Carbon, tortillas fi lled with fajita-style beef or chicken, lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheese, served with rice and charro beans. The flautas are excellent with chicken, in corn tortillas. The presentation is amazing, with pico de gallo, sour cream, and guacamole, an array of red, white, and green as vibrant as the Mexican flag. The chicken is seasoned to perfection, rolled in tortillas and topped with lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheese. These awesome creations are a Mi Casa specialty. Some like it hot, and those that do will love Steak a la Mexicana. Those in the mood for spicier fare should try this tasty treasure, diced skirt steak, seasoned with garlic, tomatoes, onions, and peppers. The steak is served with rice, beans, guacamole salad, and a choice of flour or corn tortillas. For those who can’t take the heat: Don’t get out of the kitchen; order a margarita. The Mi Casa Margarita is a cocktail that has to be tasted to be believed. The blend of Sauza tequila, Presidente brandy, Cointreau, and sour mix, served on the rocks in a traditional glass with a salted rim, will slake any thirst. The Sangria is awesome as well. Using owner Patricia Gama’s own recipe, it is a beautiful blend of merlot, brandy, and

Master Jeweler Leiva proudly displays Geradts’ crown and ring. Photo by Eddie Ocasio

Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant, serving up traditional Mexican dishes, is located at 2613 Thonotosassa Rd., just south of I-4, in the Plant City Crossing plaza. Photo by Melissa Grimes

fresh fruit. Mi Casa serves a variety of other premium drinks of the Mexican tradition and claims to have the coldest beer in town. One of the things Martinez loves about operating in Plant City is the quality of the people he gets to meet in the restaurant. “It’s a small town with very nice people,” he said. Martinez described Mi Casa as a family restaurant. They frequently play host to birthdays and parties of all kinds. He said he has even been approached for weddings. “Mi casa es su casa” is a Spanish language phrase about warmth, giving, and togetherness, literally meaning “my house is your house.” Mi Casa is

a restaurant that captures this sentiment perfectly: a relaxing place to enjoy good food with family or other loved ones.

Mi Casa

2613 Thonotosassa Rd. Plant City, FL 33563 Hours Sun.–Thurs. 11am–9pm Fri.–Sat. 11am–10pm All major credit cards accepted (813) 752-0057

Mi Casa’s chicken ﬂautas, shown here in corn tortillas with rice and refried beans, are a popular dish at the traditional Mexican restaurant. Photo by Melissa Grimes

foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

entertainment red rose

A meal worthy for mom S to r y by A a r o n O b e r l i n

She is the one who made you chicken noodle soup when you were ill. She is the one who cheered for you at your extracurricular activities – plays, baseball games, steer shows. She is the one who put herself last. More importantly, she is the one who will always love you – even if you have done something to disappoint her. She’s your mother, and several hundred people expressed their shared appreciation for the beloved at the Red Rose Ballroom on Mother’s Day, putting her first and foremost on their list. A venue worthy of royalty, the Red Rose supplied a dining experience in an atmosphere that made mom feel like a queen at her crowning ball. Mrs. Evelyn, with her acute sense for detail, set the ideal stage for sons

and daughters to tell their mothers, “I love you.” Moms and grandmothers alike were breathless as they entered the ballroom filled with immaculate dining setups – tables were draped in white linens and elegantly accentuated by soft-pink serviettes. The stemware alone guaranteed patrons they were in an exquisite establishment. Upon entering the gala, the fragrance of five-star cuisine lured families to their tables. The soft melodies of Destiny, the Red Rose house band, created an ethereal environment, one with which Mom could revel in her company and surroundings. The culinary creations available for her spanned a wide array of palates. For seafood lovers, the crab salad, smoked salmon, and shrimp cocktail

The prime rib was irresistible. Just look at this fine cut of meat. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

813-752-0502 • 3702 W. Baker Street Plant City, FL 33563 Open 9-6pm tues - Sun • Hwy 92 West of Plant City Limits, CLOSED MONDAYS THRU AUGUST • off I-4 between exits 17 & 19

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entertainment red rose dared diners to pass it up – not possible. The capers accentuated the salmon perfectly. For those who craved something a little heartier, Mrs. Evelyn decided to offer a myriad of choices. With carving stations positioned in each corner of the ballroom, patrons could decide among prime rib, glazed ham, and roasted turkey. The prime rib melted with each bite, and the ham delivered a subtly sweet taste. There were also chicken marsala and pork tenderloin available to the elated attendees. With all the fragrances and flavors from the different selections of fare, it was a symphony for the senses. But the Red Rose didn’t stop there. Mrs. Evelyn knew many guests would crave breakfast. To answer the demand, she picked eggs benedict, waffles topped with strawberry sauce, and a vast assortment of fresh fruit. Nothing culminates a sumptuous meal better than a schmorgishboard of sweets. Strawberry fondue fountains,

one on each side of the ballroom, enticed mom and her family to a display of delectable treats. There were bourbon pecan pie, Snickers Bliss Pie, several kinds of cookies, and much more. For those who brought their mothers, they truly let mom know she was loved. Really, the only way to top this year’s Red Rose Mother’s Day is to bring mom back next year, when we can only imagine what Mrs. Evelyn will have in store.

Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia Sr. enjoy another Mother’s Day at the Red Rose Ballroom. Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

101

entertainment artist of the month

Local artist Richard Wagner beams with pride next to his painting, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Country Store.â&#x20AC;? Photo by Heather Davis.

Returning to the Call of Creation S to r y by H e at h e r D av i s

As long as there is breath in the body, the act of creation calls to a person. Like the tides of the ocean, the call to create may ebb and flow. Such is the case in the life of Richard Wagner. From a young age people recognized his artistic talent, to the extent that he was transported from school twice a week to a fine arts program. Throughout his years in school, he always participated in art classes resulting in his choice of pursuing a

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fine arts degree in college. But, with changes in life, such as marriage and children, Wagnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pursuit of art was put on the backburner for many years. He then spent 13 years in the military and another 37 years working for the Chrysler Corporation. Only a year and a half ago, 20 years into retirement, Wagner once again felt the call to return to his artistic endeavors. In pursuit of his re-growing interest

in art, Wagner started to participate in an art class lead by local artist and art teacher, Mrs. Cherie. At first, he felt his attempts were awkward, but, with each painting, he felt his confidence return. In his work, Wagner is drawn to working with the recreation of period pieces based upon old photographs. The paintings represent to him the ability to capture a certain time and feeling that will never again be experienced. Wagner classifies his work as being

somewhere between realism and impressionism. Already his art work has garnered him some recognition, with three entries in the Strawberry Festival art show, as well as a commissioned piece for his neighbor. With each new painting, Wagner feels himself growing as an artist as well as answering the call to return to the act of creating.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

103

entertainment calendar

FRIDay, may 15

Cork elementary�s Xtreme fun night is at Cork elementary School, located at 3501 n. Cork road, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. there will be entertainment, food, and games for the whole family. for more information, call (813) 757-9353. the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts ralph allocco and Second Wind at 8 p.m. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

SaTURDay, may 16

the Strawberry Classic Car Show is held in downtown Plant City on Palmer Street from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. the show features vendors,

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on how to make homemade soaps using clariﬁed kitchen grease. Class is at the Winter visitor’s Center, located at 301 dort St. Please pre-register by calling (813) 757-9289 x 2253. Class is free. music, and automobiles from ’84 and older. the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts Johnny alston’s Motown revue plus PJ leary featuring Ken brady of “the Casinos.” for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

mONDay, may 18

a free preview for a six-week workshop that prepares people to get excited about work is at the Plant City yMCa at 6 p.m. Call larkin Coaching at (813) 473-3963 for more information.

WEDNESDay, may 20

“how to Make Soap from recycled Cooking grease” is at 6:30 p.m. the City of Plant City offers a class

THURSDay, may 21

Keel and Curley Winery hosts business after hours from 5:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. Call the greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at (813) 754-3707 for more information. the advantage academy of hillsborough County hosts a parent meeting at 6 p.m. at evangelical Presbyterian Church, located at 1107 Charlie grifﬁn road. the academy provides a tuition-free, quality education in a private-school setting. Call (813) 567-0801 or visit www.advantageacademyhillsborough.com for more information. the coffee shop, the daily grind and news, at 101 e. J. aden Mays

blvd. hosts its ribbon cutting at 10:30 a.m. Call (813) 707-8783 for more information. a free seminar, Weight loss through hynosis, is from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the bruton Memorial library, located at 302 Mclendon St. for more information, please call (813) 757-9215.

FRIDay, may 22

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts ralph allocco and Second Wind at 8 p.m. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

SaTURDay, may 23

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts lola and the Saints with PJ leary. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

mONDay, may 25

the annual Memorial day service is at the american legion hall,

entertainment calendar

2207 W. baker St., at 11 a.m. various clubs and organizations present wreaths in honor of fallen heroes. after a brief service, refreshments are served compliments of the american legion norman Mcleod Post no. 26.

THURSDay, may 28

the advantage academy of hillsborough County hosts a parent meeting at 6 p.m. at evangelical Presbyterian Church, located at 1107 Charlie grifﬁn road. the academy provides a tuition-free, quality education in a private-school setting. Call (813) 567-0801 or visit www.advantageacademyhillsborough.com for more information.

FRIDay, may 29

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts Charlie vegas and the new blues Combo. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

SaTURDay, may 30

the adult summer reading program, “Master the art of reading,” is from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at bruton Memorial library, located at 302 Mclendon St. for more information, please call (813) 757-9215. the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts gene ferrari ralph allocco and Second Wind at 8 p.m. for more information, call (813) 7523141.

a free preview for a six-week workshop that prepares people to get excited about work is at the Plant City yMCa at 9:30 a.m. Call larkin Coaching at (813) 473-3963 for more information. baseball heaven Scout day is at Southeastern University in lakeland, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $150. Professional and college scouts will evaluate talent for ages 15 – 18. for more information, call Mark Persails at (609) 204-6110.

WEDNESDay, JUNE 3

the Council of growing business meets in the Chamber board room at 106 n. evers Street at noon. Call the greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at (813) 754-3707 for more information.

FRIDay, JUNE 5

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts Charlie vegas and the new

blues Combo. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

SaTURDay, JUNE 6

bike fest is held in downtown Plant City on Palmer Street from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and features vendors, live music, and rafﬂes. Call the greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at (813) 754-3707 for more information. the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts ralph allocco and Second Wind at 8 p.m. for more information, call (813) 752-3141. the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City holds its annual tea of Signiﬁcance from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the red rose ballroom, 2011 n. Wheeler St. you can call the center at (813) 759-0886 for additional information.

foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

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entertainment calendar RECURRING mONDayS

mONDay, JUNE 8

Summer day Camp starts at the Plant City yMCa. Call the y at (813) 757-6677 or stop by 1507 yMCa Place in Plant City for information and to reserve a spot.

the Moody Community room at bruton Memorial library, located at 302 Mclendon St. film titles will be available in the library. for more information, please call (813) 757-9215.

WEDNESDay, JUNE 10

FRIDay, JUNE 12

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts a contact breakfast in its ballroom from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. the breakfast features a guest speaker, door prizes, and a cash pot drawing. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

THURSDay, JUNE 11

at 2:30 p.m., everyone is welcome to bring popcorn and view a recent feature ﬁlm on the big screen in

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts ralph allocco and Second Wind at 8 p.m. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

SaTURDay, JUNE 13

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts george galfo’s Mystics with Surprise guests. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts “learn to dance with Susan,” from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. for more information, call (813) 752-3141 or (863) 604-5060. there is a small fee.

TUESDayS

beginning June 9, the bruton Memorial library, located at 302 Mclendon St., has Story times at 10:30 a.m. Creativity workshops start at 2:30 p.m. for more information, please call (813) 757-9215.

THURSDayS

the red rose inn and Suites, located at 2011 n. Wheeler St., hosts Singles night out. for more information, call (813) 752-3141.

ONGOING

the advantage academy of hillsborough County is accepting applications for 2009-2010. it provides

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a tuition-free, quality education in a private-school setting. the academy is at 350 W. Prosser St. Call (813) 567-0801 or visit www. advantageacademyhillsborough. com for more information. St. andrew’s United Methodist Preschool, located at 3315 bryan road, is enrolling 3- and 4-yearolds for the 2009-2010 school year. to register or for additional information, call gwen taylor at (813) 689-1207. you may also go to www.standrewsbrandon.org. evangelical University and Seminary, located at 105 e. baker St., is accepting enrollment for a graduate course that begins May 23 and ends June 20. the course is “the text of the old testament.” there is a $25 application fee, and tuition is $45 a credit hour. Call (813) 6591903 for more information or visit www.evangelicalu.org.

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

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entertainment crossword

fathers & Daughters P r o v i d e d by C a lv i n & J a C K i e M at h e W S

COFFEE SHOP

DRIVE THRU OPEN

Cafe 813.747.3032 Mon-Thur 6a-9p Fri 6a-10p Sat 7a-10p Sun Closed 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Historic Downtown Plant City

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Sedita Kilton Life & Wealth Management, LLC “Planning for Life” “Can you keep your promises and live your dreams?” Call 813-752-4197 x27 to schedule your free, no obligation financial wealth consultation.

Richard Swilley Donnie Johnson Lic EC13002274 Bonded and Insured Joseph E. Sedita, CPA/PFS, CFP®

Nathan A. Kilton, CPA/PFS, MBA

Certified Public Accountants & Financial Advisors Comprehensive Tax Integrated Financial Advice � Asset Protection Planning � Estate Planning � Inheritances � Insurance � Investments � Retirement Planning/Rollovers � Settlements � Severance Packages www.sedita.com 104 N. Evers St., Suite 202, Plant City, FL 33563 � 813-752-4197 x27 Securities offered through 1st Global Capital Corp., member FINRA, SIPC Investment advisory services offered through 1st Global Advisors, Inc.

ElEctricity is no hobby call: 813.737.9057 FINALLY! Two local guys than can take on your nagging electrical repairs and wire your new home or business at a reasonable price! “Richard and Donnie look forward to serving your electrical needs. With 75 years of combined experience we can make your home and business safer and leave you with confidence that the job is done correctly. Give us a call and let us show how we can ease your concerns about your electrical system.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City may 2009

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may 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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www.TheOrthoDoc.com foCUS Magazine Plant City May 2009

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