Take One Vol. 7 No. 5
PLANT CITY EDITION
Medical Issue
A New “WAVE” of Technology at
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 2
tabl e o f co n t e n ts
feature 44-49
i ssu e 7- 5
on the cover:
South Florida Baptist Hosptital
MAGAZINE
photo by sophia hyde
Everything we do can affect us in one way or another. What we eat can affect our waistlines and our hearts. What we drink can affect our liver and kidneys. Smoking, poor nutrition, not exercising, not going to the doctor and many other factors can knock years off our lives. Getting healthy is not about waiting until we’re sick to make a lifestyle change. With preventive care there are many things we can do to promote better health and increase our lifespan.
Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com Editor Ashley Grant agrant@floydpublications.com Office Manager DeDe Floyd dede@floydpublications.com Credit Manager Lori Boyle lboyle@floydpublications.com SALES Sophia Hyde shyde@floydpublications.com
spotlight 52-55
South Florida Baptist Hospital has seen tremendous improvements in the past several years and there doesn’t seem to be any sign of things slowing down. A new 64 slice CAT scan machine is slated to be operational in the summer of 2008, a new Ultrasound machine and facility have just come on-line in the past few months, and a Wound Care Center will take part of the space formerly occupied as the hospital emergency room.
local 7-40 From the road to community events to Plant City giving back, this local section
Edward Jones .................................. 69
is filled with stories we hope you will enjoy.
Success .............................70-72
business profile 68 Each month we write about on of our advertisers and their place in the
Real Estate Section .......................... 77-101
Tammy Simpson tsimpson@floydpublications.com Christine Miller cmiller@floydpublications.com Art Director Stefanie Burlingame Graphic design Anthony Sassano / Phil Ransdell Distribution Belva DeVane Photographer Billy Friend Staff Writers Brian West, Wendy Brown, Holly Mallalieu, Heather Davis, Sherry Baldwin, Cheryl Johnston, Daniel Sperry, Janeel Shulmister, Joe Bowles, Pat Hearn, Ruchelle Owens Contributors Sherry Nueesch, Gil Gott, Al Ruechel, Jo-Ann Lusk, Michael Cameron, Bruce Rodwell, Natalie Sweet
community of Plant City. This month we feature: Super Discount Pharmacy.
Walden Lake Review .................................. 86
sports & fitness 98-104 Plant City Raiders’ catcher Kendall Dawson has a dream. Well, actually
FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants, and many local venues.
Mortgage Article .................................. 92
Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at editorial@floydpublications.com.
she has two dreams. The Antioch Redskins Youth Football organization has announced 2008 fall football and cheerleading sign-ups.
dining & entertainment 122-134 Reminiscent of a fine eating establishment, Turquoise Mediterranean Grill located at the Days Inn on Frontage Road offers delicious, healthy meals using only the freshest ingredients. P. J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds has a long history with the Red Rose Inn and Suites in Plant City, FL. Leary has been performing there for years and he and his band have developed close ties to Plant City.
medical section 43-65 FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 4
Real Estate Article .................................. 94 Local History ................................ 108 Al Ruechel ................................ 110 This I Believe ................................ 114 Ask Who What ................................ 116 Words of Character ................................ 120
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.
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floyd publications, Inc. 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 5
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Confidence. Discipline. Fitness. Respect. The building blocks of success.
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We’ve all heard it said that if we have our health, we have everything. Without it, little else matters. It is also something money can’t buy. Almost daily we hear on the news or read in the newspaper about some new way to try and improve one’s health, some new diet, a revolutionary new medication, or a breakthrough new medical procedure. We are truly living in a remarkable age of medicine, one in which great strides have been made in just the last twenty years. We are living longer than our ancestors from just a couple generations ago. While much of our propensity towards some major diseases like cancer, heart disease or diabetes are greatly determined by our family history and genetic make-up, there are many ways in which we can, as individuals, increase our odds of beating them, or at least surviving them. Our feature this month is on some preventative ways to maintain your health and to help increase your life span. Many of them are reiterating things we may already know, but with all the prescreening available today, the mountains of knowledge being gained every year by the medical community and all the ways in which we can help ourselves increase our odds of living a long, full and healthy life, it doesn’t hurt to get an occasional reminder. Our spotlight interview this month is with Jennifer Cain CT/RT/ARRT, CAT Scan Coordinator, Leslie Messick, RDMS Ultrasound Coordinator and Olan Deguzman, Manager of Rehab and Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center. South Florida Baptist Hospital has seen tremendous improvements in the past several years and there doesn’t seem to be any sign of things slowing down. A new 64 slice CAT scan machine is slated to be operational in the summer of 2008, a new Ultrasound machine and facility have just come on-line in the past few months, and a Wound Care Center will take part of the space formerly occupied as the hospital emergency room. While this month’s feature focuses on ways to maintain one’s physical health, one’s mental well-being is just as important. Looking at a glass half full, rather than half empty, can also go a long way in helping us enjoy a long, healthy life. Abraham Lincoln once said that most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. If that is true, then we have control over ourselves being happy. And being happy is one more way to help improve our chances of having a long, healthy life.
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Christy Layton Poulin, DVM
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FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 6
RETRACTION: The photos in the last issue for Little Miss Plant City were by Tim Bedgood. We reported Billy Friend as the photographer.
local talkofthetown
story and photos subm itted by the commu n it y send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
TALK OF THE TOWN Focus Magazine would first and foremost like to sincerely congratulate the winners of the 2008 Miss Heart of Plant City pageant. From left to right in the front row is Jade’a’ Broome- Little Miss Heart of Plant City and Kellie Murrell-Tiny Miss Heart of Plant City. From left to right in the back row is Amanda Holland- Miss Heart of Plant City, Madison BradshawJr. Miss Heart of Plant City and Racheal Hallman- Miss Teen Heart of Plant City. We are very proud of all the contestants and the winners of the Miss Heart of Plant City Scholarship Pageant, Inc. Way to go girls!
Ferman of Plant City hosted a yard sale on Saturday April 26th. All proceeds from this event benefited the United Food Bank. The event raised more than $1,800! Pictured : Dennis
Hall (Ferman General Manager) Timela Cross (Ferman) , Kelleigh Klein (Executive Director of the United Food Bank) Margaret Rodwell (United Food Bank Volunteer) , Bruce Rodwell (United Food Bank Board) , Mary Olson (Ferman).
Jami Bender, one the veterinary technicians for the Animal Wellness Center of Plant City and a student of the Hillsborough Community College vet tech program here in Plant City has been awarded a scholarship by the Hillsborough Animal Health Foundation. Congratulations Jami! Our local AAU Rawlings Velocity 10 u team placed third at the Spring Slug-a-Rama in Winterhaven FL. on April 20th. Competing against the top teams in the State, the Velocity more than held their own. They defeated the Tampa Bulldogs, which was the number one team in the State at the time 6-2 in the quarter finals. That put them in the semifinals against the Lakewood Longhorns. It was the third game of the day for Velocity. Although they didn’t win this last game did get third place for the tournament. Way to go boys! Congratulations!! Members of the Velocity are: Front left to right, Steve Colon, Jose Ciccarello, Kyle Lanskey,
Colin Allman, back row: Mckenzie Wheeler, Zach Scott, Logan Fernandez, Brendan Shultz,
Logan Lyle, Chelsea Baker. Coaches: Chad Allman, Rod Mason, Glenn Lanskey, Kevin Shultz. Durant High School’s John Mitchell won the state title at the Class 4A state track meet May third. This was Durant’s first state championship in track and field. Congratulations John! Coffee 101 has been getting a bit of media attention lately thanks to the addition of Spanish classes that owner Heather Davis has been hosting in her shop on Mondays. The free Spanish classes are held Mondays from 12:20 to 12:40 p.m. Coffee 101 is located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. To find out about more events that Coffee 101 is hosting visit www.espressyourself.com. Dr. Lowe has teamed up with Debbie Ker of Why Weight for a contest similar to the Biggest Loser. Four girls were chosen to be the contestants and will be competing to see who can lose the most weight over a 12 week period. Krista Cofield, Rachel Green, Samantha Commella and Stacy Hill will all be working towards a prize package that includes tanning at Planet
continued on page 8
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 7
local talkofthetown
story and photos subm itted by the commu n it y send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
TALK OF THE TOWN MacKenzie Clark
Amanda Holland
Beach, Manicures and Pedicures at Sassi Nail salon, a full makeover and more. Good luck to all of the contestants!! Congratulations, MacKenzie Clark, who recently was crowned “2008 Miss Central Florida”. MacKenzie is a Junior at the University of South Florida majoring in Broadcasting. MacKenzie has set high goals for herself and is one of Who’s Who Among American College Students, the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the National Dean’s List. MacKenize was a member of the 2007 Strawberry Festival Queens Court. Amanda Holland who was recently crowned Miss Heart of Plant City 2008 along with Miss Central Florida 2008 now have the opportunity to compete at the 2008 Miss Florida Sscholarship Pageant and Racheal Hallman who was recently crowned Miss Teen Heart of Plant City will now be given the chance to compete for Miss Florida Outstanding
Teen – June 29-July 5, 2008 in St. Petersburg, Florida. Best of Luck Girls!! Durant High School’s Valedictorian is Grant Sizemore who is graduating with a weighted GPA of 6.9057. The Salutatorian is Alyssa Anzalone who is graduating with a weighted GPA of 6.8123. Both students took several Advanced Placement and Honor courses boosting their weighted GPAs and are both headed to the University of South Florida after graduating. Sizemore is planning on majoring in Medicine and Anzalone is planning on majoring in Business. Good luck to the future Bulls!! Juan Marin is a BMX rider. He’s currently raising funds for a huge competition in China. If you or anyone you know would like to donate to help Juan get to China please contact Lorraine Bennett at Lorraine@MyHappyRealtor.com. Together Plant City residents can pull together
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 8
Racheal Hallman
what is needed to help this up and coming BMX rider get to the competition for the National Bicycle League. June 9 the Plant City Family YMCA summer programs begin. For more information about the programs offered please visit http://www. tampaymca.org. Fancypet Petstore will be having Customer Appreciation Day June 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Food, fun, prizes and giveaways will be featured at 1507 S. Alexander St. Ste 101. For more information, visit www.Fancypet-Petstore. com or call (813) 719.1129. Did you get married, engaged, promoted or win an award? Submit your good news to editorial@floydpublications.com and your story or good news could end up in the Talk of the Town.
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ears ly five y te a im x o appr service mer for Lynne, urteous to o s c & u e d c n ik a a al Dear M We have been ofession h the pr it w y p p . very ha ee Sales ng of and are arren Tr scheduli tly do W e y th b h d it w ten provide odating s consis accomm your employee d with your n e e b s e alway e greete me and lanning You hav work at our ho , it is nice to b m the initial p ll o e r a of our p F f call. ded all e landsca nt job. Most o to e d to c a x h e I’ve lle mpany t and an exce your co henever e Sales has me d w n e e ic m o v om re friendly tion, Warren T uld highly rec le wo p e m w o c d n to sa pe need n Tree landsca s and family. d Warre the n a e m nd to for our frie portant nk you emely im ll respects. Tha y years of con tr x e is e a n a ic in v m r it e u yo er s d at Custom clearly excelle we wish ed and s id a v h o r s p le Sa ave re you h great ca cess. uc tinued s - Robin Bailey
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local AROUNDTOWN
Story and Photo by Ashley G rant send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Unity in the Community Together for a Cause The philosophy is simple. “Bringing the community together…for a cause.” Joyce Jordan founded the Unity in the Community, Inc. nonprofit organization to benefit charity services in the Plant City area. “I was raised to help people,” said Jordan. This is the reason she was eager to begin a charity in Plant City. Since 1999, Unity in the Community, Inc. has raised more than $325,000 for community service organizations and 160-185 Thanksgiving dinners for families in need. The most admirable aspect of the organization being that the entire Unity staff is volunteer based. No one gets paid to work for this nonprofit and all the money that is raised in Plant City stay in Plant City.
Unity in the Community raised $16,500 in 2007 for Meals on Wheels. They donated $9,000 to the United Food Bank & Services and they gave the Boys & Girls Club of Plant City $5,000. In 2005 Unity in the Community joined forces with South Florida Baptist Hospital to create the PEDI Fund that helps pay for children’s prescriptions. This money comes from the pockets of the employees at SFBH and the American Business International Network. They work hard and play hard too. During Halloween Unity in the Community runs a haunted house for four to five days during the season. To make a donation visit www.unityinplantcity. com. For more information on Unity in the Community, call (813) 752. 1275.
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VBS DATES - JUNE 8TH – 12TH TIMES: 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. For Children ages 3 – 5th grade (completed) REGISTER TODAY at Shiloh Baptist Church 905 West Terrace Drive Plant City, FL 33565 “Live th
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Or register online @ www.shilohbaptistpc.org 4IJMPI #BQUJTU $IVSDI FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 12
Joyce Jordan, Executive Director of Unity in the Community, with Anna Reitz, Director.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 13
local tellyourtale
Sto ry by Ja n e e l S hul m i st er / Photos C ou rt e sy of L i sa M oore
Lisa Moore Living Her Dream in Plant City For Lisa Moore dreams do come true. This stay at home mom has dedicated her life to her children and family. “All my life that’s all I ever wanted to be was a home mom, from when I was in elementary school,” she explained. “I just wanted to be a mom and I got to live my dream.” Originally from Ohio, Moore is a thirtyyear Plant City resident. She lives with her husband George, daughters thirteen-year old Stephanie and ten-year old Rebecca, and two Jack Russell dogs on ten acres of family property. In addition to Moore’s immediate family, her mother-in-law, brother-in law and nephew also live on the property. Moore’s house is “center ground; ” at any given time, you will find family members, friends, neighbors, neighbor’s animals, and stray animals visiting. Moore is quick to open her home and her heart to those in need. Four legged friends as well as two legged ones are always welcome. Although she is now a “home mom,” prior to having her children, Moore was employed for seventeen years as a community services officer with The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. She did everything from taking misdemeanor reports to serving papers, working out of the Plant City Court House Substation Sheriff’s Office. Moore enjoys working in her yard, planting and seeding flowers and being outside. The more time she spends outside, the better. She also enjoys people; “I like being around lots of people, I like to help out whenever I can,” she explained. This considerate and very outgoing mom is happily living her life and her dreams in Plant City.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 14
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local AROUNDTOWN
Story and Photos by Ho lly M allali eu send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
El Dia De Los Ninos “The Day of the Children” Held at Bruton Memorial Library “El Dia de los Ninos”, or, “The Day of the Children”, is also known as “El Dia do los Libros”- “The Day of the Books.” This event, held April 19 at the Bruton Memorial Library, celebrated reading and Susan Mason, a teacher, makes mexican paper flowers with Maria provided Garcia, her sons Andres Perez and various Diego Perez, and Miguel Zapata pass-times for children of any age to attend and enjoy. Primarily a bilingual project, the afternoon was also fully occupied by special guests that promoted learning and celebration of diversity in colorful, memorable ways.
The children who attended had multiple choices of activities from computer games, to face-painting, to making Mexican flowers out of colored paper, and of course, reading. While these were available, anyone who wanted could attend performances by students from Cork Elementary, who danced to different songs of Mexico in authentic-looking apparel. Perhaps the most looked-forward to was the performance by “Boca Beth.” Boca Beth is the star of “Bringing Spanish to Life”, a show that appears on cable television’s education channel every Saturday morning. Beth and her mascot “Boca”, a larger-than-life yellow bird, entertained the children with fun and educational performances that many times required the audience’s participation with singing, dancing, etc. Other attractions included the presence of “Officer Snook”of Water Resource Management, and free
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 16
book give-aways to any child accompanied by an adult. RCMA provided the refreshments, Catholic Charities set up a booth, and Wellness on Wheels was available throughout the afternoon. Many women worked hard to make this day very special, such as Debbie Clark, Carol Lane, Stephanie Willis, and more, and it was certainly successful!
Josiah Welch, 6, enjoys a coloring activity
local artistofthemonth
Story by Heath er Davi s / Photo by Gary Wa r d send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Ana Brice Bain
Creating Art With Raw Emotion Some of us may have been born with artistic talent, the ability to draw and paint. When an artist is able to use this talent in combination with freedom of expression the result can be extremely powerful. Such is the case with Ana Brice Bain. Although young in years, Ms. Bain has lived a rich, full, and diverse life. From this life she has found a way to express her feelings and emotions openly and freely on canvas. Drawing from places deep within, she touches on strong emotion and deep feeling. Expressing emotions in paint that are sometimes even too strong for words. As a single mother, Ms. Bain, has been able to channel this creative talent into a business known as Creative Minds, where she paints on a daily basis, whether it be on canvas, murals, decorative painting, or even tattoos. Ms. Bain is most creative at night and enjoys spending this time painting with her son while listening to the Beatles. Today her artwork is deeply spiritual, highly contemplative, and individual. Her artwork has provided her with many opportunities from painting murals in High Schools, to participating in Art Shows in
1/2 HOUR WREC KER SE 3 2 S N RVI OW CE R ,OCAL ,ONG $ISTANCE B Miami’s Southbeach, to designing CD covers for Record Labels. All of this has lead Ms. Bain to state that she is leading a fulfilling life, a life filled with her art, her son, and family. To view Ms. Bain’s work you may visit www.myspace.com/anabrice, contact Creative Minds at 813-679-2021 or visit Coffee 101 at 101 E J Arden Mays Blvd in the month of May.
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,INDA $ &UHRMAN FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 17
local AROUNDTOWN
Story by Jerry Lofstrom send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Nurses Make a Difference Remembering National Nurse’s Week If you’re like most people in Plant City, the week of May 6 through May 12 might have passed you by without recognizing National Nurse’s Week. The week is sponsored by the American Nurses Association and is meant to recognize the icons of the medical profession. Most of us don’t realize what it’s like to be a nurse in today’s health-care system. It’s a serious job. The demands are many and the stress is high, the hours are irregular and the work keeps getting more demanding. From bedside nursing in hospitals to the halls of research institutions to long-term care facilities, the nursing profession should to be recognized
and honored. They are an indispensable part of health care and the system would collapse without them. Nurses do indeed make a difference, one life at a time. Whether soothing the frightened child who’s been hurt in an accident, alleviating the pain of those suffering from a lingering illness, or bringing practical hope to the ill at ease, nurses are the compassionate life-line who touch both patient and family members during stressful, and sometimes shattering times.
& $BMIPVO 4U t Plant City, FL 33566
813-754-8697
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2008
TOP GUN TOWER (OUR 3ERVICE s ,ARGE 6EHICLE 4OW !VAILABLE !CCIDENT 2ECOVERY s (EAVY %QUIPMENT 4OWING ,OCK /UTS *UMPS 4IRE #HANGE FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 18
Anyone who has been in a hospital should have little trouble remembering one or more nurses with deep affection -- who made the stay more bearable and recovery more rapid. Just how much we owe to the many hardworking and oft-forgotten nurses should be remembered. Sooner or later, most of us will be in their care.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 19
local AROUNDTOWN
Story by Jerry Lofstrom send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Plant City: A Town That Keeps On Giving Perfect weather and perfect planning combined for a perfect Plant City “Relay For Life� fundraiser on April 18.
Under a canopy of stars and moonlight, the 10th annual Plant City “Relay For Life� was a charm with more than $230,000 raised to fight cancer. “We actually had three goals,� said Lauren Erickson, community representative for Southeast Hillsborough County’s Relay For Life. “We had a team goal of 78 and ended up with 72 teams. We wanted 200 people to walk the “Survivor Lap� and we had 215. And we set a financial goal of $220,000.00 and we raised $230,000.00.� The Plant City community should be proud of our “Relay For Life� for raising the most
money of any relay in Hillsborough County last year and we ranked eleventh best in the state. Plant City is one of the most successful fund raising relays per capita in the nation according to Erickson.
You shouldn’t be surprised. Plant City is a special place where human compassion for others can be seen every day from Meals On Wheels to the United Food Bank to the Spring to the fight against abused children, just to mention a few.
Plant City’s relay event was attended by more than 2,000 participants who cheered as cancer survivors and their caregivers stepped onto the track to take the survivor’s victory lap, all
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FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 20
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p lant city: a tow n thaT KEEP S O N GIVING continued
wearing purple survivor’s T-shirts, the first lap is meant to honor the survivors. Some chose to walk, some needed to be helped by caregivers pushing wheel chairs, some circled the track on golf carts, but regardless of their choice, they all will have something in common -- their victory over cancer. But hope shines brightest during the luminaria ceremony. Held after dark, more than 300 glowing luminaries encircled the athletic track; hundreds of glowing white bags -- each with the name of someone who has survived cancer or someone who has lost the battle -- light the path for survivors and their caregivers as they made their way around the track to the cheers of caregivers, family members and friends. “Relay for Life” is celebrating its 23rd anniversary this year, but it was another thirteen years before it came to Plant City. The first
ever “Relay For Life” had a quiet beginning in Tacoma, Washington, when a surgeon and devoted runner, Dr. Gordy Klatt, decided to do a 24-hour walk/ run around a Tacoma track. He raised $27,000 for the American Cancer Society during his 83-mile journey around the track. The next year, when Dr. Klatt headed to the track, he wasn’t alone. Joining him were 220 supporters on 19 relay teams. They spent the night, and “Relay for Life” was born. Since that time it has grown into a national event that raises millions of dollars for research, treatment and education about cancer. Ask anyone who participated in Plant City’s “Relay For Life” and most will tell you that’s good news, but it’s still not all about money. Relay For Life is as much an awareness raiser about the progress against cancer as it is a fundraiser. It is a celebration of survival, an
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opportunity for emotional healing and a chance for people to do what they can to help fight the devastating disease. Thanks to our community and communities across our country, cancer is not an automatic death sentence. It is a challenge that is surmountable, thanks, in part, to the generosity and caring nature of people of Plant City who are so willing to help. To the hundreds of people who took time to be a part of this great event, for those who worked so hard in raising money, for those who stayed up all night celebrating life, you have accomplished something worthwhile.
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FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 21
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- Guitar taught by Jeremy Brook, USF graduate, plays in FBC orchestra and the Praise Band “Overflow�
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FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 22
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 23
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Story and Photos by Ashley G rant send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Mixing Business with Pleasure The Plant City Community Expo The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held the Plant City Community Expo on May 8 at the John R. Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College. Local businesses including 84 vendors came out to support the event and show the community what they have to offer. The event was free, was open to the public and featured food samples, door prizes and giveaways. Why does the community come out to the expo? The reasons are a plenty, but many of the attendees said it is simply to find out who is in Plant City. Millie Wetz comes to find out what businesses are in Plant City and enjoys the gamble of trying to win door prizes from the different booths. Mary Witzke said she thinks the event is very interesting and likes getting the goodies and the food.
The food seemed to be the hottest item at the expo. Each booth giving away free food and beverages had many people surrounding their space at any given time. Woody’s BBQ gave away sample sizes of many of their dishes including creamy coleslaw, baked beans, pulled pork and their famous Sloppy Woody. Wal-Mart gave guests cake, pretzels, chips and an assortment of meats and cheeses. Camelia’s Tea Room offered a very rich and sweet Mocha cake that was a definite crowd pleaser.
Amelia Cataldo tries to win a prize at the Coldwell Banker booth by attempting a “hole in one.”
Red Rose Inn had the most delicious cookies that would even make mom blush. White chocolate chip with Macademia nuts were quite popular, but that’s not to say the oatmeal and chocolate chip cookies weren’t satisfying. They were! Candy was at many booths as well bringing back memories of trick or treating. Plant City Realty was just one of the booths that gave away a lot of candy. They filled bags with treats, along with their business cards and pens to keep people thinking of them every time they reach for a piece of hard candy or need to write something down. The beauty of the giveaways that have the business name stamped on them is anytime the item is used, the user will think of the business. Calendars, hats, pens and even cookbooks filled the arms of attendees. The guests of the expo come for information and giveaways while the businesses show up in hopes of future customers.
Marion Smith, President of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce announces another winner for a door prize.
Nikki Pozeznik, owner of Coventry Adult Care, has been coming for the last three years and
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 24
gets a lot of great referrals from the expo. Woody’s gave out coupons to visitors that may potentially come into the restaurant.
Larry Hill samples the hot stuff Coffee 101 has to offer.
Emma Moran showed up to get more information about the Chamber because her company Home Helpers is considering joining. This company is proof that if your business wants to participate you need to get in early. They wanted a booth of their own, but by the time they called to do so, it was too late because every spot had been taken. The entire event was a huge success with what seemed like hundreds of people coming through the doors. If you missed out on this year’s expo, you need not worry. The event is held annually. For more information on the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, visit www. plantcity.org
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 25
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Story by Chery l Johnsto n / Photos courte sy of Da n i e l l e McIn t y r e
Danielle LaTrice McIntyre PCHS 2008 Valedictorian Danielle McIntyre will never forget her senior year. She was in the Homecoming Court, was recently crowned Prom Queen, and in May she’ll address her Plant City High School graduating class as 2008 Valedictorian. Her advice to younger students is this: “Challenge yourself, but remember it’s high school and you only experience it once. Find a balance, get involved, and be open to learning.”
desiring majors in Communications and Broadcasting, with minors in business, medicine, and political science. Her mother, LaTonya McIntyre, is a 12-year PCHS veteran math teacher. She reports that
Community service is expected in the McIntyre household, and Danielle was pleased to serve in several ways. During the summers, she worked six hours for four days each week as a school guidance office receptionist. She also served meals as a cafeteria worker at the Church of God summer camps in Wimauma, which created “a new appreciation for the lunchroom ladies at school.” Since her mother and grandmother direct the nursery/toddler ministry at church, Danielle has also logged many hours rocking babies, changing diapers, and humming “Jesus Loves Me” to little ones.
Beauty, brains, and talent – with all that and more, seventeen-year-old Danielle is an outstanding representative for her peers, her school, and our community. She earned this top honor with a 6.67 grade point average. The daughter of LaTonya McIntyre and Danny McIntyre, Danielle is also sister to Stephen, LaToya and Kayla. Both grandmothers, Thelma Wilborn and Rosemary Garrett, are extremely proud of her accomplishments. As the first African-American valedictorian in PCHS history, she has honored her heritage. Additionally, Danielle is a leader at school and church, holding positions as PCHS National Honor Society president, senior class VP, student government recording secretary, Keyettes’ president, and Soul’d Out Youth leader at Plant City Church of God. Physically, she squeezed in a little fitness focus playing as a Lady Raiders’ basketball forward for three years and high jumping on the track team. Artistically, she earned Teen Talent awards representing her church youth in drama/ dance performances and creative writing. In August, Danielle begins studies at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee,
while waiting for mom to enter grades or plan lessons. Staff members were extended family and discovering new secret passages between school hallways and classrooms inspired her imagination.
Music, dance, and the dramatic arts are a passion for this tall, graceful, and confident young woman. In addition to Christian worship music, she has gained an appreciation for the “oldies,” including favorite crooners Frank Sinatra and Aretha Franklin. Her church family is always touched by her Soul’d Out Drama Team performances. Plant City is proud of Danielle’s accomplishments and looks ahead to continued successes. When asked who she credits for her success, Danielle thanked, “My precious family, dear friends, incredible teachers, and God.” Danielle has always been a serious student, but the family chuckles at her first B in fifth grade. Admitting that she’s had a few since then, Danielle recalls how excited little sister LaToya was to discover her big sister wasn’t perfect after all. Danielle fondly remembers time spent at PCHS
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 26
What more can this confident young lady with a quick smile and helping hands need? Simply – faith, prayers, and trust in her Gift-Giver. Unlimited goals yield limitless skies. You soar, girl!
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Story by Chery l Johnsto n / Photos courte sy of Br it ta n y Pow e l l
Brittany Nicole Powell PCHS 2008 Salutatorian Brittany Nicole Powell has it all together. She has brains, beauty, deep insights, and high goals. As the 2008 Salutatorian of the Plant City High School Raider senior class, Brittany will have achieved a childhood dream. Now, the next begins.
on the United Food Bank’s Board of Directors. She accumulated almost 70 community service hours last summer and worked at the YMCA’s original location supervising children, K-8th graders, five days a week for 18 months.
Seventeen-year-old Brittany is the only child of Robert IV and Alicia Powell, and granddaughter to Evelyn Powell. Her position as salutatorian was secured with a 6.64 grade average and a 4.0 unweighted average. This means Brittany has never received any grade less than A, in her life. Wow! Talk about focus and diligence. This purposed young lady knows exactly where she’s headed, too. In June, she moves to Gainesville to an apartment with three new roommates and to the University of Florida to pursue a six-year pharmacy doctorate degree, which she hopes to procure in five.
Brittany is a deep thinker and mature beyond her years. An invitation to Girls’ State last summer further piqued her intrigue with politics, world developments, and education issues. On the creative side, Brittany enjoys drawing, sketching, and art appreciation in general. One desire is to study abroad, possibly in Germany. Her Italian and Cherokee Indian heritage have stirred a cultural curiosity and a love for both classical and foreign music. She enjoys 60’s music and bands like the Beatles, Pink Floyd, and the Doors. Oh, and by the way, Brittany played the trumpet for ten years
in school bands until academics necessitated she lay it down in 10th grade. Her next creative goal is to master the guitar. Brittany recalls with sincere appreciation several teachers who reached out to encourage her during a personally painful experience last year. They took time to compassionately listen, converse, and encourage her. She advises other teens to get involved with diverse extracurricular activities at school, to cultivate a variety of friendships. She also cautions, “Value friends and enjoy a social life, but don’t lose site of your educational goals.” Plant City is extremely proud of Brittany Powell. Her dedication and persistence speak volumes. If her books could talk, they would probably say, “Thanks for investing your curious mind into our pages. We promise, your best is yet to come. Well done, Brittany, well done.”
Brittany credits her parents for her brains. Both have math and science backgrounds. Dad is a Walgreens’ pharmacist and mom is studying, along with Brittany, for the pharmacy technician test. Brittany plans to work while she earns her degree. At PCHS, she served as president of the Science Club, was an active member of the Mu Alpha Theta math honor society, and competed statewide the Academic Team. She was a freshman designate for the National Honor Society, serving all through school. The amazing feat is that Brittany managed all this while taking 12 Advanced Placement courses. She is proud to have passed six tests already and will complete the rest soon. This is one very intelligent teenager, who rises to the highest challenges. Community service is also an integral part of Brittany’s busy life. In addition to the PCHS Leo Club, she is the junior representative FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 27
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Sto ry by C h e ry l Jo h nsto n / P hoto C ou rt e sy of Wa n e da Brow n l ow
Cork Teacher and Missionary to Africa Waneda Brownlow’s New Assignment
Waneda Brownlow, surrounded by her Cork Elementary first graders, will soon teach teachers in Africa.
Waneda Brownlow is a teacher – most definitely.
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Today, she teaches first graders at Cork Elementary School. This fall her new classrooms will be in Africa. She will become a teacher of teachers, and the subjects are her life’s passions – God and the Holy Bible’s life application truths. Mrs. Brownlow is returning to missionary work. Her newest appointment by the Church of God World Missions Department is to educate Christian educators on the African continent. Waneda and her recently deceased husband, the Reverend Lamar Brownlow, previously served for 23 years in five countries: Honduras, Panama, Russia, Mexico, and Italy. As a new widow, Waneda sensed that God would be redirecting her life and work. So, now it begins. Brownlow is equipped to train teachers, having earned degrees in Elementary Education and Christian Ministries with minors in Spanish and Bible. Her mother taught her responsibility, using Scripture from Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much is required.� Miss Brownlow, as called by her Cork students, expects this assignment will bring joy and challenges. One obvious challenge will be learning the languages and dialects of her African students.
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An immediate challenge is procuring funds for this first year’s commitment. Monies will cover necessaries like airfare, health insurance, and basic living expenses. Her church family will provide some financial support and much prayer, but Waneda must actively seek support from additional sources before leaving the States. If your church or civic group would like to hear more, please communicate with wanedabrownlow@yahoo.com or www.tracingthespiralsofmythoughts.blogspot.com.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 31
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Sto ry by J e r ry Lofst rom / photos by soph ia h yde send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Plant City Police Department Going To The Dogs
The Plant City Police Department is going to the dogs -- and that’s a good thing. In its dogged pursuit of better ways to confront crime, the department has added four police officers who are unable to understand English and are willing to work for dog food. Bad guys beware!
Call our office at 813.707.8783
If your activities bring you into conflict with the police you won’t be pleased to hear that Plant City’s police department has purchased four German shepherds, Max from Holland, Ruger, Melando, and Bodo from the Republic of Czechoslovakia, to help the department sniff out criminals. Senior Police Officer John Stasiak, Officers’ Patrick Walker, John Gilmore, and Charles Helm are the K-9’s “significant others” in the fight against crime. According to Police Chief Bill McDaniel K-9 handlers must commit to the program for the life of the dog. Gentle by nature the German shepherds’ can turn ferocious on command becoming a terrifying blur of flashing teeth and frightening growls; there certainly not your neighbor’s dog, fluffy.
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All positive. All the time. FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 32
The trained dogs obey voice commands given to them in the language of their homeland, according to K-9 team leader John Stasiak. Asked to give an example of the dog’s role in a hypothetical night burglary, Stasiak explained, “An alarm or a witness alerts police. They arrive with a dog. Police announce loudly that, unless the suspect comes out of the building, the dog will be released. If the suspect doesn’t obey, police release the dog. The dog hunts for body odor linked to fear, Stasiak said, because there are no calm thieves when confronted by a trained police dog.
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p lant city pol i c e departm ent continued
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If people find themselves in a criminal situation in which police dogs are used, the best advice is to cooperate. Plant City police officers and their canine counterparts are currently training at the Hillsborough County police K-9 school in Tampa. The 480 hour training course teaches the handler and dog to track criminal suspects, sniff out drugs, tracking and handler protection, arrest and apprehension, and evidence recovery.
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“The canine unit can also help promote the image of the Police Department through involvement in demonstrations at schools and other
John Gilmore/Bodo, Patrick Walker/Ruger, John Stasiak/Max, Charles Helm/Melano
public events,” according to Chief McDaniel. The four German Shepherds arrived in Plant City in February and will be introduced to the streets of Plant City in June. Police dogs are highly trained animals. While the dogs live with their handlers, they are more than household pets. People should use caution when interacting with police dogs. Ask if you can pet the dog? “Don’t make an aggressive move. The dog is trained in handler protection and doesn’t differentiate between work and play,” said Stasiak. The cost for the animals -- $5,800 for buying each dog will come from the police department’s fund of seized drug money. “I am very pleased with the results of our efforts to take from drug dealers the fruit of their illegal activities and convert these assets, cash and property into additional resources and tools in order to fight crime,” said Chief McDaniel. And isn’t it fitting that the same people who provided the money to buy the canines are most likely the ones who will be subdued by their own criminal wrongdoing? For the law abiding citizen it just doesn’t get any better.
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Story and Photo by Ho lly M allali eu send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
An Asset to Plant City High School
Coach and Teacher: Dale Rice
Rock and Roll, to Mass Media over the past 27 years. He met his wife, Leslie Rice, who also teaches English, in 1990 at the high school. Mrs. Rice is in her 21st year, trailing closely behind in her husband’s tracks. The two had their first date at the George Steinbrenner Coaches’ Banquet, and were married in 1991.
It takes a certain type of person to be a great teacher, and Plant City High School has seen many teachers and faculty members come and go over the years, some better than others. It has been fortunate enough, however, to hold on to a constant handful. One of these is Dale Rice. In his 27th year teaching at PCHS, Rice has been through a variety of experiences, taught hundreds of students, met and married his wife (who also teaches at the high school), had the opportunity to coach baseball and tennis, and the list goes on… After transferring from the University of Florida, Rice graduated from the University of South Florida where he majored in English, and soon following began seeking out a job. Though teaching was not his original objective for a career (he had planned on communications / journalism), he went on to receive his substitute teacher’s certificate, leading him into his first position as an intermediate instructor at Franklin Junior High School and then to Tampa Bay Tech. There he taught Sophomore English for six weeks. When these temporary positions expired, Rice discovered two job openings in Hillsborough County at the time; one as a teacher in Leto, and the other, Plant City High School.
Athletics have been a large part of Rice’s experience as a teacher, as well. During his first four years at the high school he was the assistant baseball coach, and had a chance to coach Kenny Rogers, Jeff Jacobson, and Mike Sodders, who is now the head baseball coach at Plant City. After that he began coaching tennis, of which he is self-taught. Still at it, he has currently been the tennis coach for the past 23 years. In fact, he is the Dean of Coaches in Hillsborough County.
Fortunately, only one of these was for a permanent position, which is why Mr. Rice is still at PCHS today. A handful of his former students are now administrators on staff at the school. Rice was hired and has since been teaching classes ranging from English, to History of
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 34
Whether the students call him Mr. Rice or Coach Rice, he is a great asset to the PCHS faculty and staff and someone that no student would ever forget having as a teacher. Not only has he made good friends; he has met his wife, and had the opportunity to influence so many young people in so different ways. Although it has, of course, had its ups and downs over time, “It’s been a fun time, I’ve enjoyed it,” he says about his time spent. Plant City High School is lucky to have held on to such a special teacher, and looks forward to whatever the next years have in store.
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Story and Photo courtesy of Kathy Ki r by send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Celebrating 50 Years OF LOVE AND MARRIAGE Evelyn M. and Batista Madonia, Sr. celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on Sunday, April 20, 2008, with a private Mass at St. Clement Catholic Church, Plant City FL, with The Archabbot Douglas Nowicki of Latrobe PA presiding over the Mass, along with Father Tom Anastasia, Senior Pastor at St. Clement Catholic Church. Music for the Mass was provided by Maestro Richard Pipas with vocals provided by Cantor Paul Hetrick. After the Mass, the Madonia family hosted a dinner reception at the Red Rose Inn & Suites in Plant City FL, with entertainment arranged by the Madonias’ daughters, Laurie and Rosemary and provided by Grammy nominated songwriter and recording artist, Michael Peterson who sang his number one
the entertainment for family and friends at the Red Rose Dining Room. Mr. and Mrs. Madonia were joined by their children, Stephen and his wife Tracy and their two children, Stephen Jr. and Lauren. Son Batista III and his wife Tamela, along their four children, Ona, Alura, Fawn and Batista IV (JoJo), and also their two daughters, Laurie Madonia and Rosemary Madonia. hit, “From Here to Eternity”, along with many others. At a pre-party on Saturday night, the family celebrated Batista III’s 40th birthday with special musical guest, three time Grammy Award winning singer, Jon Secada, providing
Evelyn and Batista, college sweethearts, were married in Winchester VA on April 21, 1958. They moved to Florida in 1980, with their four children. Mr. and Mrs. Madonia are the owners of East Coast Brokers & Packers, Inc. in Mulberry FL as well as The Red Rose Inn & Suites in Plant City FL.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 35
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Story and Photos by Ashley G rant send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
The Cars of Yester Year 11th Anniversary Car Show The third Saturday of every month the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce hosts a car show. There was a special show held on April 19, however. This particular Saturday was the 11th anniversary of the time honored tradition. As always there was free admission and free registration. The difference between this one and the one held monthly was the number of people. More than 800 cars registered to show and somewhere between four and six thousand guests were in attendance. The car shows are a wonderful boost to the tourism of the surrounding area and the anniversary was certainly no exception. Attendees packed places like the Whistlestop, Snellgroves and Coffee 101 to get some air conditioning, a bite to eat and a place to sit down. The first thing many people notice when going to a car show is that these cars don’t look like what is on the road nowadays. These cars are the classics, they are pieces of art with a sense of style that just can’t be found in “cookie cutter” mass-produced vehicles today. Cars and trucks have to be from 1983 or older just to participate. The car show committee
Ron Sharp lives in Zephyrhills but has been coming to the shows in Plant City for the past two years since moving from Kentucky. Featured with him is his red Viper.
one is so attractive it requires a second glance to confirm it. Osborne has taken his 1931 Plymouth to shows all over and even took it to Scream Fest in Orlando where he dresses up as well. The radiator, glass and the body of the car are the only things that are original to the car. The rest had to be customized. Union Station was taken over by cars. There were so many people it was hard to figure out who owned which car.
has to approve newer, limited production and specialty vehicles prior to the shows. People from all over the United States come to these types of shows to display their works of art. Just one “exhibitor” was from New Jersey and people that participate spread the word to their friends afar so that they might be able to come as well.
Brian Clavering has been attending car shows for seven years. He fixes up some stuff on his 1923 Ford Model T himself, but admits some things you just have to call in the pros for. Acquiring the car itself is what led him to start coming to the shows. He said that these shows are around all the time, but unlike Plant City, many shows require a fee to register the car. The fee usually means there will be judging, but the Plant City shows are just for fun.
Bo Osborne’s car stood out right away. With more than 170 skulls all over his car and a bright yellow paint, spectators couldn’t help but take notice. However, the exterior was only the beginning. Like many cars, his has a theme. The movie The Devil’s Rejects is what inspired the theme of his car and one of the main character’s, Baby, sits in the front passenger seat for viewing pleasure. Of course, she is a mannequin but this
Coming to a car show is great for making friends, seeing ideas for your own car and for promoting the business activity around Plant City. They are held in historic downtown Plant City at McCall Park. The shows feature oldies music, a 50/50 drawing, vendors and crafters. For more information about future car shows, visit www. plantcity.org.
Bo Osborne with his 1931 Plymouth. In the front seat is Baby from The Devil’s Rejects.
Brian Clavering with his 1923 Ford Model T. The car is often referred to as a T Bucket according to Clavering.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 36
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 37
local AROUNDTOWN
Story and Photo by W endy S. B row n send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Financing the Future Women Make Dreams Happen Dreams are vital! Dreams are clutched close to our hearts! Langston Hughes wrote of dreams drying up like raisins. Recognizing the
importance of higher education and partnering with the American Cancer Society (ACS), the Plant City Women’s Club held a recent fundraiser to donate all funds to “Making Dreams Come True.� Teens that have faced the crisis of cancer will have the ability to attend technical school or college with a $3000 yearly scholarship plus books. Last year 167 young adults won scholarships and were able to pursue their dreams. Current president of the Florida Women’s Club, Pat Keel, visited ROCK camp for kids with cancer. Being impressed with the ACS organization and wanting to help, Pat Keel spearheaded the Florida Women’s Club project of raising money for scholarships that ACS would distribute.
Iva Reno, Silvia KNox, Betty Aston, Mary Hallman, and Jerry Brownleee enjoy strutting their stuff during the fashion show.
Last year, $70,000 was presented while the 2008 goal is $200,000. According to Alise Solenberger, President of the Plant City Women’s Club, our local club raised over $4,200.00. The luncheon included a choice of two entrees at Carrabas, with bread, beverage, and scrumptious chocolate cake. Patrons were entertained with lively discussion and fashion shows by Denise Young’s Boutique and Helen Price’s Weekender Fashions. Irmgard Tannery and Patt Edwards created and sold fabulous jewelry with all sales donated. Did you miss the fabulous opportunity baskets of “Tea and Coffee for Two,� “Relaxing Evening� with wine, cheese, goodies, and antique wine glasses, or the “Chocolate Indulgence?� Thanks to the Women’s Club, many students’ dreams will come true.
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FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 39
local AROUNDTOWN
submit ted by b ruc e ro dw ell / P hotos by S usa n W i lson
Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce
ADP Small Business Services; Jonathan Fagerlund, District Manager, 402 South Armenia Avenue, Suite 133 Tampa, FL 33609-3300, (813) 957-6395
Valpak of Tampa/St. Petersburg, Susan DeVegter, Media Consultant, 10901 Roosevelt Boulevard, Suite 1200-C. St. Petersburg, FL 33716-2336, (813) 447-9124
Were you one of the lucky ones that attended the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Business Expo? If so, you know what a truly great event this was. It gave everyone a chance to see the latest products and services offered by our very own Plant City businesses. It also afforded attendees a chance to taste some great food that was offered by the exhibiting restaurants. If you are a plan ahead person, remember this event rolls around in May, so make a note on your next year’s calendar to attend this event. It is held at the John R. Trinkle Building at Hillsborough Community College. ********** Make plans to attend the STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW which will take place in downtown Plant City on Saturday, May 17 th. Starts at 4 PM and goes on till 9 PM.
Ft. Alafia Country Store, Bette Harvey, Owner, 8102 South County Road 39, Plant City, FL 33567-3209, (813) 737-3717
clubs and organizations will be presenting wreaths in honor of our fallen heroes. After a brief service, refreshments will be served compliments of the American Legion Norman McLeod Post No. 26. June 4 th. marks the last day of school so can summer be far behind ? And speaking of summer, two of our main recreational venues are ready to get their summer programs going full steam ahead. The City of Plant City Recreation and Parks Department is offering registration signups at two locations. For ages 8-15 registration can be made at their location, 301 Dort Street or you can register online at www.activenet.active.com/plantcityrecreation . Registration continues till May 23 rd. Programs offered include arts & crafts, board games, billiards, indoor sports, outdoor sports, video games, guest presentations, field trips and much more. Call Chris Washburn, Center Supervisor and 813-659-4200 ext. 4340 for additional information.
********** Did you get your tickets for the 2008 MARGARITA BALL which will be held at Mayor Rick & Di Lott’s house, 3200 Polo Place, Plant City on May 17th? This wonderful fun filled event starts at 7 PM and goes on till midnight. There is informal dining, casino gambling with play money, duck pool, a live auction and even a Jimmy Buffet style band. Call the Chamber office for your tickets 813-754-3707.
For children ages 6-17 signs-ups are taking place at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center, 1601 East Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. from 9 AM top 5 PM till May 23 rd. For additional information you can call LaTosha Lewis, Center Supervisor at 813-757-9195. Programs offered at this Boys & Girls Club location include Arts/ Crafts, board games, billiards, indoor sports, field trips, and cooking, food program. Program dates at both locations are from June 9 to August 8 with program times 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
********** Want to learn about all the issues that took place in Tallahassee this past Legislative session? Then you will not want to miss the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce “EGGS & ISSUES 2008 LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP BREAKFAST”. This annual event takes place on Thursday morning May 22 nd. at the Red Rose Inn & Suites and gets underway at 7:30 AM. Confirmed Legislators that will be speaking are Senator Ronda Storms, Representative Trey Traviesa, and our very own District 62 Representative Rich Glorioso. Call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 to RSVP. This is always a great time to learn about what happened at our State Capitol and also to ask questions of the presenters.
The Plant City YMCA is offering a very diverse summer program. It is the philosophy of the Plant City Branch of the YMCA to provide a safe, fun, and educational experience to each child regardless of race, religion or national origin. Their goal is to improve the physical, mental and social health of each child through quality, creative, values-oriented activities. The YMCA offerings include basketball, indoor & outdoor games, swim lessons, readers theatre, T-Ball, Flag football, Arts & Crafts and many others. The programs are for children ages kindergarten through 9 th. grade and get underway June 9 th. To sign-up for the programs at the Plant City “Y” or to obtain additional information on the programs the Plant City YMCA is offering, call 813-757-6677.
********** ********** Mark the date of May 26 th. on your calendar and plan to attend the Annual MEMORIAL DAY event at the American Legion Hall, 2207 West Baker Street, Plant City. This event gets underway at 11 AM. It is a great way to honor our service men and women, both past and present. The various civic
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 40
A tip of the Chamber hat and Kudos to the Ferman Auto Group for sponsoring the community wide yard sale which benefited the United Food Bank & Services of Plant City. This event was held April 26 th. at the dealership on East Park Road. The Ferman group is a member of our Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Here are some important dates for your calendars:
p lant city cham ber continued
June 4 -Chamber Bike Fest in Downtown Plant City. Starts at 5 PM and goes on till 9 PM. Great family fun. Lots of classy motorcycles, plenty of vendors and great entertainment. June 11 -Contact Breakfast at the Red Rose Inn. Starts at 7:30 AM. Call the Chamber at 813-754-3707 to RSVP. June 14 -Tea of Significance benefiting the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City. Call the Center at 813-759-0886 for details. June 19 -Greater Plant City Gambrell Consulting, Alan Gambrell, Owner, 110 Chamber of Commerce West Reynolds Street, Suite 102, (813) 752-7000 Business After Hours at Crawford Hill Interior Designs, 1407 East Baker Street. Starts at 5:15 PM. Call the Chamber to RSVP art 813-754-3707. June 21-Strawberry Classic Car Show in Downtown Plant City. Starts at 4 PM. ********** Our Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce continues to grow. We now have over 725 members. Susan Wilson, Membership Director, continues to do an outstanding job. If you are not a member and would like information on joining, please call her at 813-754-3707. She will be happy to provide you with information. Remember to shop where you see this sign: MEMBER GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Sassy but Classy Accessories & Gifts, Linda Lawson & Krysta Stafford, Owners, (813) 752-4278
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 41
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 42
Dr. Thomas DiGeronimo Neurologist MedStat Healthcare Services
56 57 58 59
Health Solutions
60
Berry Patch Pediatrics
Premium Billing Solutions
62
2008
Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A.
The Health Center of Plant City
63
Plant City
Less is More Weight Management
61
Family Medical Specialist
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Medical Issue
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 43
Preventive Care
Getting Healthy for Life Story by Ashley Grant Photos by Ashley Grant
E
verything we do can affect us in one way or another. What we eat can affect our waistlines and our
hearts. What we drink can affect our liver and kidneys. Smoking, poor nutrition, not exercising, not going to the doctor and many other factors can knock years off our lives. Getting healthy is not about waiting until we’re sick to make a lifestyle change. With preventive care there are many things we can do to promote better health and increase our lifespan.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 44
Eating
supply even more potassium than bananas and are a strong source of betacarotene.
Think for a moment about what you had for dinner last night. What did you eat for breakfast? Did you eat breakfast? Some people don’t think twice about what goes into their bodies, but maybe they should.
Carrots contain a lot of beta carotene, which may help reduce a wide range of cancers including lung, mouth, throat, stomach, intestine, bladder, prostate and breast.
Everyone knows that eating right is important to stay healthy but according to the Cancer Cure Foundation some foods can actually help in preventing illness. Just a few foods that could help you get and stay healthy include:
Chili peppers and jalapenos contain a chemical, capsaicin, which may neutralize certain cancer-causing substances (nitrosamines) and may help prevent cancers such as stomach cancer.
Avocados are rich in glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that attacks free radicals in the body by blocking intestinal absorption of certain fats. They also
Cruciferous vegetables - broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage contain two antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin that may help decrease prostate and other cancers. Garlic has immune-enhancing allium compounds (dialyl sultides) that appear to increase the activity of immune cells that fight cancer and indirectly help break down cancer causing substances. Nuts contain the antioxidants quercetin and campferol that may suppress the growth of cancers. Red wine, even without alcohol, has polyphenols that are potent antioxidants Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, which may protect DNA in the cell nucleus from cancer-causing chemicals outside the nuclear membrane. For more information, visit http://www.cancure.org/ cancer_fighting_foods.htm
Diabetes According to the Florida Department of Health, nearly 1,000,000 adults, or about 7.6%, have been diagnosed with diabetes in Florida. Approximately 300,000 to 400,000 adults have diabetes, but have not been diagnosed. People who can control their diabetes by maintaining normal or close to normal blood sugar levels lower their risk of complications and gain, on average five extra years of life. What you eat and drink can actually help prevent or delay type two diabetes. Walking for as little as two hours and 30 minutes each week can also help in the prevention and delay. The Diabetes Risk Assessment from the South Florida Baptist Hospital: Read each statement, and then write down the points listed next to each one that is true for you. If a statement is not true, write down a zero. When you are done, add the points to get your total score. If you are African-American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, Asian-American or Pacific Islander descent, pay special attention to the assessment questions, as diabetes is more common among these ethnic groups.
My weight is equal to or above that listed for my height in the weight chart listed below. (5 points) I am under 65 years of age and get little or no exercise during a usual day. (5 points) I am between 45 and 64 years of age. (5 points) I am 65 years of age or older. (5 points) I am a woman who has had a baby weighing more than 9 pounds at birth. (1 point) I have a sister or brother with diabetes. (1 point) Height
Weight
Height
Weight
4’10”
129
5’8”
177
4’11”
133
5’9”
182
5’0”
138
5’10”
188
5’1”
143
5’11”
193
5’2”
147
6’0”
199
5’3”
152
6’1”
204
5’4”
157
6’2”
210
5’5”
162
6’3”
216
5’6”
167
6’4”
221
5’7”
172
The weight chart is based on a measure called the Body Mass Index (BMI). The chart shows unhealhty weights for men and women age 35 or older at the listed heights. At-risk weights are lower for those under age 35.
If you scored 10 or more points, you are at high risk for diabetes and should visit your doctor to be tested. You should also be aware of these warning signs: Frequent urination or excessive thirst, Dramatic weight loss, Fatigue, Blurred vision, Slow healing of wounds, Tingling in the toes or feet. These symptoms alone may not suggest diabetes, but when two or more symptoms are combined, testing is recommended. If you scored 3-9 points, you are probably at low risk for having diabetes. However, new guidelines recommend everyone age 45 and over consider being tested for diabetes every three years. If you have any questions about diabetes or would like more information about St. Joseph’s diabetes programs or services, please call (813) 870-4995.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 45
Preventive Care Getting Healthy for Life Exercise
Stretching
It’s easy to make excuses for not exercising. Therefore, it’s easy to get unhealthy. When you are ready to start though, where can you go and what can you do to exercise?
With exercise comes stretching. It is extremely important to stretch before doing exercises to prevent injury. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Stretching before your workout — especially if you have tight or injured muscles — can prepare your body to exercise. Stretching after your workout promotes better range of motion of your joints. Stretching also improves your flexibility, balance and coordination.”
First, visit a doctor before beginning any workout program. Visiting a doctor and informing him/her that you wish to start exercising could enable them to point you in the right direction. Failing to visit a doctor could lead to unnecessary injury.
YMCA Wellness Director Newton Reiff helps a member get started with the Y’s free 6-session Personal Exercise Program (PEP).
One great place to work out is the YMCA. In Plant City the YMCA is located at 1507 YMCA Place. For more information, call (813)757-6677. Another option of course, is a personal trainer. Your best bet here is to get a recommendation. The idea of a personal trainer is someone who personalizes each workout to your body type to guarantee results. Active Older Adults enjoy a water exercise class at the YMCA’s outdoor pool.
Stretching can also loosen tight muscles even when you’re not working out. Simple tasks such as having to take the stairs or walking to your car from the grocery store can be less painful if you stretch. Calf, hamstring, hip flexor and quadriceps stretches are wonderful ways to release tension in your legs. Shoulder, neck and chest stretches can prevent and ease pain in the upper body. Doing certain activities with tight muscles can really hurt and even cause strains and sprains. Even if all you’re doing is lifting a purse or a bag of groceries, a tight muscle can mean severe and unnecessary pain.
Stress Stress can make you sick. It can pull down your immune system and increase anxiety especially when it’s combined with poor nutrition. To prevent stress from making you sick find ways to de-stress yourself. Although it has been proven that some levels of stress are necessary for survival, too much can be a real problem. If you are having high levels of anxiety it may be best to see a doctor. When you find things that stress you out, try to figure out ways to calm your self down.
Campo Family YMCA members sweat it out in a group exercise class; classes are free with a YMCA membership.
The American Institute of Stress suggests improving your diet and exercise to de-stress. Other methods include getting a hobby, getting better rest and talking out troubles with friends and family.
Omar Aref, MD
Board Certified Family Physicians 1703 Thonotosassa Rd., Ste. A Plant City, FL 33563
www.omararefmd.com (813) 567-5682 Fax (813) 567-5686
Primary Care for all Ages Preventive Medicine Sports Medicine Office Skin Procedures Botox & Skin Rejuvenation Weight Loss Management FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 47
Preventive Care Getting Healthy for Life Screenings To some people going to the doctor to stay healthy may seem like a “no brainer”, but to others it may seem unnecessary. However, not going to the doctor could lead to other problems down the road. There are several screenings you can have done for peace of mind. Sometimes these tests will come back saying you’re perfectly fine. Other times the screening could catch something in time to help it before it gets worse. Breast Cancer- The self breast exam is the easiest screening. Check breasts for lumps, discoloration and discharge. Another screening for breast cancer is the mammogram. Screening mammograms are done for women who have no symptoms of breast cancer. When you reach age 40, you should have a mammogram every one to two years. Cervical Cancer- the cervical cytology (also known as Pap smears) reduces incidence of and
mortality from cervical cancer. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) these screenings should be within three years of onset of sexual activity or age 21 (whichever comes first) and screening at least every three years. Colon and rectal cancer- The American Cancer Society says that beginning at age 50, both men and women at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should use one of the screening tests below. The tests that are designed to find both early cancer and polyps are preferred if these tests are available to you and you are willing to have one of these more invasive tests. Talk to your doctor about which test is best for you. Endometrial (uterine) cancer - The American Cancer Society recommends that at the time of menopause, all women should be informed about the risks and symptoms of endometrial cancer, and strongly encouraged to report any unexpected bleeding or spotting to their doctors. For women with or at high risk for hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer (HNPCC), annual screening should be offered for endometrial cancer with endometrial biopsy beginning at age 35.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 48
Prostate cancer- The American Cancer Society says that Both the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and digital rectal examination (DRE) should be offered annually, beginning at age 50, to men who have at least a 10-year life expectancy. Men at high risk (African-American men and men with a strong family of one or more first-degree relatives [father, brothers] diagnosed before age 65) should begin testing at age 45. Men at even higher risk, due to multiple first-degree relatives affected at an early age, could begin testing at age 40. Depending on the results of this initial test, no further testing might be needed until age 45. South Florida Baptist Hospital is a “one-stop shop” for Plant City residents to get screenings. Throughout the year they even hold events for discounted and free screenings. As recent as October 2007 SFBH held a screening day for kids with blood pressure screenings, height and weight evaluations and scoliosis screenings. Adults aren’t left out though. SFBH works with businesses in the community to set up screenings that are sometimes free for attendees. For more information on health screening days visit, www.southfloridabaptist.com.
Smoking According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smokers die 13 to 14 years earlier than nonsmokers on average. “Current trends show that tobacco use will cause more than 8 million deaths annually by 2030.� In terms of preventive care, the CDC cigarettes are currently the leading cause of preventable death in the United States.
At two weeks to three months- circulation improves, walking becomes easier and lung function increases. One to nine months- coughing, sinus congestion, fatigue, shortness of breath decreases.
At 15 years- risk of coronary heart disease is now similar to that of people who have never smoked and risk of death returns to nearly the level of people who have never smoked.
One year- excess risk of coronary heart disease is decreased to half that of a smoker.
South Florida Baptist Hospital offers the following as the benefits of quitting smoking:
At five years- from five to 15 years after quitting, stroke risk is reduced to that of people who have never smoked.
When smokers quit, within twenty minutes of smoking that last cigarette the body begins a series of changes.
At 10 years- risk of lung cancer drops to as little as one-half that of continuing smokers, risk of cancer
At 20 minutes after quitting- blood pressure decreases, pulse rate drops, body temperature of hands and feet increases. At eight hours-carbon monoxide level in blood drops to normal and oxygen level in blood increases to normal.
Bottom Line Preventive care requires education and the goal is to prevent the financial burdens of lengthy hospital stays, sick doctor visits and severe illness or injury. Taking action before something happens is not only cost effective but it eases your mind to know your taking care of yourself. It isn’t always cheap to get healthy and physically fit. However, letting things go, missing screenings, bypassing physicals and continuing poor lifestyle habits can lead to big medical bills down the road. Taking care of yourself today can help your bottom line tomorrow.
At 24 hours- chance of a heart attack decreases. At 48 hours- nerve endings start re-growing and ability to smell and taste is enhanced.
Get Healthy, Lose Weight the Healthy Way in ‘08.
of the mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, kidney, and pancreas decreases and risk of ulcer decreases.
MARKLEY CHIROPRACTIC
Dr. Guy Markley & Dr. Robyn Markley Judy Markley A.P. We’re Here, We Care. Serving the community for 25 years.
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(Front Row) Vickie Hutcheson, Donna Pettit C.A., Aimee Almon C.A. (Back Pictures) Dr. Robyn Markely, Judy Markley A.P., Dr. Guy Markley
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 49
FAMILY MEDICAL SPECIALIST
Dr. Omar Arfe I am a family physician new to town, I have been in practice since 2006, and I went to Cairo University for med school and finished my training from Southern Illinois University. I am married with two young children. After finishing my residency, my wife who is a native Floridian insisted we move back to nice weather and nicer southern atmosphere. I am trained in family medicine, board certified and have a special interest in overall wellness, preventive medicine, weight management, Botox injection and skin procedures, including dermal fillings and skin rejuvenation. From friendly staff to the most recent medical equipment and a great medical records system, I took great care in starting my new practice. We also offer lab draws, referrals and office tests in house.
Dr. Michael Paul Gimness Michael Paul Gimness, MD is Board Certified in Family Medicine. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from St. George’s University School of Medicine in June of 2000 and then completed an Internship in Family Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. Following this he completed his training in Family Medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida. He has been living in Lakeland for the past 5 years and, in his free time, coaches his son’s soccer team with the Lakeland Soccer Club. He is an active member of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce and is looking forward to many more years of developing relationships within the community. Dr. Gimness provides comprehensive services for your whole family including Newborn exams, adolescent and adult physicals, vaccines, sick visits, GYN care, weight loss counseling, and more. If you would like to become part of an environment that treats you like family call: 813-567-5679.
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 50
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 51
SFBH Prepares for New Technology New 64 slice CAT Scan, Family friendly Ultrasound Suite and Wound Care Center top the list
outh Florida Baptist Hospital has seen
S
already provide. A new 64 slice CAT scan machine
these additions will help the hospital fill the needs
tremendous improvements in the past
is slated to be operational in the summer of 2008,
of patients that might otherwise have to drive
several years and there doesn’t seem to
a new Ultrasound machine and facility have just
longer distances to receive the care they need.
be any sign of things slowing down. In the coming
come on-line in the past few months, and a Wound
Shannon Mitchell, Marketing Manager, took me
months, the hospital will acquire some new
Care Center will take part of the space formerly
on a tour recently to see some of the equipment
technologies that will enhance the services they
occupied as the hospital emergency room. Each of
and meet
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 52
Jennifer Cain CT/RT/ARRT, CAT Scan Coordinator and Supervisor, supervises the department that will be receiving the new 64 slice CAT scan machine. How long have you been with the hospital? Cain: Nine years. I started on the weekends and a full-time position came available and I took it. I absolutely love it here. If you walk down the hallway when you first come to work and find 30 people, there will be 30 people that say hello or at least smile at you. I love that. It just seems so personal. I worked at another hospital for years and I didn’t know half the people there. Tell me about the new CAT scan. Cain: CT stands for Computerized Axial Tomography. The machine we use currently is a 16-slice machine. We’ll be adding the 64 slice machine with Cardiac capabilities this summer. The slice count designates the number of detectors on the machine; the 16 slice has 16 and the 64 slice has 64. The detectors take readings each time the scan circles the body. The detectors are reading the x-rays and the information is compiled digitally to provide the renderings necessary; even 3 dimensional views. Both machines do exactly the same thing. They provide the same quality images. But the new machine will allow us to implement Cardiac CAT scanning for angiograms of the heart. This will help us determine if there are any blockages or calcium in the heart. It will also help eliminate many of the more invasive procedures
where they do the evaluation by working through the arteries in the groin. The machine will also help us determine if the more invasive procedures are necessary. Mitchell: Along with that, one of our physicians will be credentialed to be able to do carotid artery stenting. Dr. Khan is the selected physician and I believe we are already working through the credentialing process now. This will be a first for our community and it will make a nice complement to the new equipment. When will the cat scan be installed? Cain: It will be installed sometime during the first two weeks of June. Once the installation is complete, AHCA (Agency for Health Care Administration) will come in and do their inspections. Then someone from General Electric will come here to do some training with us. How soon will you be able to do the Cardiac scans? Cain: The cardiac scans won’t be implemented until late fall of 2008. There will be some training that must take place with the technicians prior to the implementation. And we’re excited about the training opportunity. Many of the training technicians have been exposed to so many different things that we may never be exposed to. We find that to be very valuable learning experience for us. We’ll definitely have the capability to do these cardiac studies and we want to
try to do them mainly with outpatients. Mitchell: We will be providing a location for patients with needs for cardiac patients who would otherwise have to go out of town for the same procedures. What other types of things can you do through CAT scan? Mitchell: I’m sure we’ll be able to do some flowtype studies with the machine. Cain: Yes. The equipment allows us to do carotid angiograms of the legs to show the flow of the legs to check for blockage. Then we send it to a workstation for review. The workstation is where we take the pictures and draw out the vessels that are being viewed and then draw the 3 dimensional pictures that the physicians want to see. It’s very helpful to them. When they’re taking someone in for surgery, they know exactly where things are in relation to one another. Leslie Messick, RDMS Ultrasound Coordinator, Supervises the new Ultrasound department located at the Swindle Diagnostic Center, and the current ultrasound department located within the hospital. How long have you been with the hospital? Messick: I started here also as a weekend technician just filling in when they needed someone. A full-time position came available and here I am. I’ve been here 8 years now.
Jennifer Cain
Leslie Messick
Olan Deguzman
CT/RT/ARRT, CAT Scan Coordinator and Supervisor
RDMS Ultrasound Coordinator
Manager of Rehab and Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center
AMERICAN BOARD CERTIFIED
PLANT CITY’S URGENT CARE & WEIGHT LOSS
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1009 W. Baker St. Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1232 nowcareclinic.com FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 54
SFBH Prepares for New Technology How long has the new ultrasound facility been open? Messick: We opened here in March of this year. And we love it! Mitchell: We’ve always had ultrasound, but they were located in little rooms and it was hard to fit people in. The rooms at the new facility are much larger. Now if you have loved ones coming in to see the first images of your child, it’s more family friendly. What other types of procedures do you use the ultrasound for? Messick: We do abdominal, vascular ultrasounds where we look at the blood vessels. Basically, you name it and we do it; except the heart. The echocardiograms are done at the hospital, and through a mix of inpatient and outpatient service. Everything we do here at Swindle is outpatient service. Some service providers do only OB ultrasounds, or only abdominal ultrasounds, but we do it all here.
How difficult is it for the ultrasound technician to get the image their looking for with the new machine? Messick: It’s much easier. And we’re able to change the look of the image with the press of a button. For example, if we’re looking at a baby’s face, we’re able to view it six different ways. And of course we’re able to do the 4-dimensional images too. Patients can take advantage of the new suites through referrals and scripts from their physician. What are the benefits to the new machine? Messick: The image quality is much better. It works the same way when we get upgrades to the machines. One of our machines from 2002 was upgraded and the difference is night and day. Each room also has a separate flat screen viewing television for family members. No more crowding around the monitor to
SFBH Prepares for New Technology
Tell me about your experience with rehab? Deguzman: I’ve been doing rehab work for 20 years. I love wound care. But the trends in wound care are changing. In the past wound care was done through physical therapy. We would also do whirlpool treatments. But that’s changing. We’re finding that wounds are not healing as fast through whirlpool treatments and there are some side effects. When you have a healing wound, the agitation of the water irritates it. It prevents the growth of new skin fibers.
As you can tell, South Florida Baptist is still making progress after all these years. Your dedication and service to our community is appreciated. We should all feel blessed to have such a great hospital with caring staff of professionals like we have at South Florida Baptist.
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How long have you been with the hospital? Deguzman: I’ve been with the BayCare organization for about 10 years and here at South Florida Baptist Hospital for about 2 years.
Manjit Matharu
Registered Pharmacist (FL)
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Roseland Ave.
Olan Deguzman, Manager of Rehab and Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center, manages the new Wound Care department. They will be receiving a Hyperbaric chamber that will enable them to do enhanced wound care treatment.
So what are the new trends? Deguzman: We’re going to start working more towards a wound care center where we will have a wound specialist physician. We’re still building our panel of physicians which could involve a podiatrist and possibly a surgeon, and a wound care nurse. When that happens, wound care will be transferred from rehab to the wound care center. Hyperbaric is one treatment for wounds. Hyperbaric treatment will involve the use of a chamber and we’ll have a mono-place chamber. The mono-place only allows room for one patient at a time, but it will be more comfortable because they won’t have to wear a mask during treatment. Typical treatment in a hyperbaric chamber will last 60 to 120 minutes. They will breath 100% pure oxygen at about twice the atmospheric pressure during the treatment, and this will promote the healing of the wound.
W. Prosser Dr.
see the baby. The suite is warm and comforting when you are looking at the first images of your child.
Marta Valesquez
Registered Pharmacist (FL)
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Have a special occasion you want to share? • • • •
Weddings Awards New Baby Promotions
Call 813-707-8783 Ext. 24 to let FOCUS spread the word! MAGAZINE
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 55
Less Is More Weight Management
Lose Weight Keep It Off
Our providers at Less Is More Weight Management Program, Dolores K. Lowe, MD, Catherine Nutting, NP, Susan Bingham, NP, are committed to helping you not only get the weight off but also keep it off. It’s frustrating. Over the course of a lifetime, people often find themselves trapped in a seemingly hopeless and endless cycle of obesity. Even when they are able to take weight off, their success is only temporary. Obesity is quickly surpassing smoking as the number one cause of preventable death in the United States. Numerous medical conditions, such as
diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, joint pain, breathing disorders, and sleep apnea are associated with obesity and can endanger the length and quality of your life. Incorporating healthy eating and regular exercise into your life can help to reduce your weight and improve your overall health and self esteem. Our providers understand that only telling an individual to “eat less” when they are overweight is just like asking a person with asthma to simply “stop wheezing”. Just as a diabetes or hypertension requires appropriate medical intervention and treatment so does obesity. Recent statistics from the Center for
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 56
Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics indicate that 33 percent of American adults are overweight or obese, up 25 percent since 1980. Our program incorporates a comprehensive approach to weight management. We utilize metabolic testing, individualized nutritional planning, exercise, medication and behavioral modification techniques that best fit your unique life style. Give us a call. We’re here to help.
Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A.
To Love, Serve, To Give Out of Abundance Preventative Care – Family Healthcare
Our office has been serving Plant City for over 23 years. We offer relief of joint, neck and back pain, as well as pregnancy care, nutritional screenings, headaches, auto injuries, rehabilitation and massage therapy. We are excited to tell you about the latest technology we have to offer: Foot Levelers’ Associate ™ Platinum Digital Foot Scanner. The scanner allows a check of your feet for problems that could transfer to other areas of your body. You should have your feet regularly scanned for imbalances that could be causing the pain in your knees, hips, neck or back! We also feature the Digital Pulse Analyzer screens for possible problems such as: Hardening of the Arteries, Plaque Build-up, Poor Circulation, Heart Strength or Weakness, Pulse Rate, Pulse Height. Clinical Indications: Hypertension, Arteriosclerosis, Arrhythmias, Erectile Dysfunction, Migraine/Cluster Headaches. Call now for your appointment at (813)752-2524. We offer complimentary consultations. Open MondaySaturday. We are located at 2402 Walden Woods Dr, Plant City, FL. Se Habla Espaùol. Visit our website at www.dukeschiropractic.com
Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician
Why are more parents turning to alternative treatments and natural remedies for ear infection?
Increasingly, parents are turning to natural remedies to address family health care needs. As a part of the natural approach, many are seeing the benefits of chiropractic; let me give you a case study of a 13 year-old boy named Sam: Sam suffered from chronic ear infections since the age of two. $60,000 later, Sam was finally scheduled for surgery to have two permanent holes drilled in his skull (to drain the ear canals). Prior to surgery, Sam was adjusted daily for 2 weeks, and then weekly for 6 weeks. In his pre-surgery exam, the M.D. proclaimed that Sam no longer needed surgery.
813.659.9800
1601 W Timberlane Drive, Suite 400 Plant City, FL
Located in the Walden Lake Medical Arts Building
Dr. Timothy B. Williams Board CertiďŹ ed Pediatrician Emily Buchholz, P.A.-C CertiďŹ ed Physician Assistant
Noemi Melendez-Kaylor, P.A.-C CertiďŹ ed Physician Assistant
Katherine Steward, CPNP CertiďŹ ed Physician Assistant
We offer the latest technology:
• Enfant Pediatric Vision Testing System • OAE Hearing Screen • Tympanometer • Spirometer • Ear Popper
Friendly, professional staff. Nicely decorated ofďŹ ce. Most Insurances Accepted.
Along with the benefits of adjustments we encourage parents to look for allergies. It is important to communicate with your doctor of any sensitivity. Also, there may be bacteria present in acute conditions that may need antibiotics but over use of and inappropriate use may lead into problems like antibiotic resistant bacteria. Some doctors are concerned about mechanical obstructions changes in spinal, canal or jaw (TMJ). After falls, accidents or traumas please have your child evaluated by a Doctor of Chiropractic. Absolutely, diet and nutrition have a tremendous influence on the immune function. Monitor the dairy products and sweets just to name a few and then seek advice on a personal basis. Even there can be a psychological stress where the immune system is reduced making them more susceptible to infection. Environmental factors is extremely important; a child who lives with a smoker has a three – to – four fold greater risk to developing ear problems. Special Note: We would like to send a special Blessing to all men, especially fathers and grandfathers on Sunday June 15, 2008 for “Fathers Day�. May God continue to bless you! Dr. Dukes and Staff.
Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician s 7ALDEN 7OODS $R s 0LANT #ITY &,
Dr. Dukes encourages you to write her with any questions concerning chiropractic care. FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 57
Berry Patch Pediatrics
Berry Patch Pediatrics Mixing Science and Art Medicine, especially primary care, is a field that mixes science and art. There’s an art to caring for children, and Gloria RibasSchultz, MD serves them with excellence. Dr. Ribas-Schultz opened Berry Patch Pediatrics in March of 2006 with the goal of providing comprehensive and compassionate pediatric care, as well as helping each child achieve their own special potential. Cubanborn and fluent in Spanish, Dr. Ribas-Schultz received her MD in 1991 from Louisiana State University Medical School, and served her residency at Tampa General Hospital from 1991-1994. She sees pediatrics as a way to partner with parents in providing
their children with well-rounded health and education. Dr. Ribas-Schultz is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, has been in practice for more than 13 years and is the primary doctor at Berry Patch Pediatrics. She is a mother also and integrates practical parenting with medicine. Dr. Ribas-Schultz and her team incorporate the “small town life” of Plant City with distinctive, professional care and their vision is simple: “To serve God and the community by providing excellent, comprehensive pediatric care.”
Gloria Ribas-Schultz, M.D., F.A.A.P Board Certified Pediatrician
Accepting New Patients Birth - 21years Most Insurances Accepted Hablamos Español
1601 W. Reynolds St., Ste 203 (OURS -ON 4HURS AM PM s &RIDAY AM NOON s #LOSED PM PM FOR LUNCH
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 58
Health Solutions Chiropractic Wellness Center
Doctor’s Own Health Problems Sets Path Helping Others As a toddler, I suffered from painful reoccurring ear infections. Repeated antibiotic treatment and tubes placed in my ears only offered temporary relief. Thankfully, my parents sought a second opinion - one that did not include traditional methods of treating the symptoms but instead sought a solution by addressing the cause of my earaches. Looking back, I now realize my seemingly small but painful health problem ultimately shaped my future and gave me a desire to help others with their health. By simply seeking a second opinion, my life forever changed. So what was the cause of my health problem? It was poor food choices, E S T A B L I S H E D
M A R C H
namely milk and dairy products and once removed from my diet, my earaches went away for good. Today, I am blessed with the opportunity of helping others achieve their goals. Our health is very valuable and often goes unrealized until we can no longer do the things we enjoy. My staff and I provide a wellness approach to health care using safe nutritional and chiropractic treatments, as well as teaching how to live healthier, more prosperous lives. I encourage people daily not to lose hope; that there is help available. If you have a 1 9 9 6
Plant City CANCER TREATMENT CENTER (Adjacent to the main entrance of the hospital)
N Advanced Modern Technology N Cancer Care Close to Home N Prostate Seed Implants N Medicare, Medicaid, Most HMO’s N CT Simulation N 3-D Conformal Therapy N Intensity Modulated Radio Therapy N Breast Brachy Therapy
health concern you would like to discuss, call the office to set up your complimentary consultation where I can listen to your concerns and discuss solutions to your problem. Health Solutions Chiropractic Wellness Center, the practice of Dr. John Souther, D.C., C.N.H.P. Chiropractic Physician, is located at 1514 S. Alexander St. Suite 201 in the Oaks Plaza in Plant City. For more information, please contact their office at 813-717-7553.
Health Solutions Chiropractic Wellness Center Chiropractic & Nutritional Care
Randy V. Heysek M.D., F.A.C.R.O. Board Certified in Radiation Oncology Kathryn L. Kepes, M.D., F.A.C.R.O.
Board Certified in Radiation Oncology, Internal Medicine & Medical Oncology Co. Director
ALL AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CENTER 303 North Alexander Street, Call 813-719-7705 for appts/consultations
• • • •
Family & Sports Care Nutritional Testing Natural & Safe Weight Loss N.A.E.T. Allergy Therapy
Located In The Oaks Plaza 1514 S. Alexander St., Ste. 201 Plant City 33563
New Patient Gift CertiďŹ cate Bearer of certiďŹ cate is entitled to receive a free consultation with the doctor OR receive A Consultation / Complete Exam / X-rays and a report of your exam ďŹ ndings for a total cost of $70.00 4FSWJDFT GPS USFBUNFOU BSF OPU JODMVEFE JO UIF QSJDF PG UIJT TQFDJBM PGGFS
Dr. John Souther, D.C. Chiropractic Physician Dr. Souther will review your exam ďŹ ndings and discuss your treatment options with you. If we can’t help you, then we will give you the appropriate referral to get you the help you need. For more information or to schedule your appointment call:
(813) 717 – 7553 FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 59
Dr. Tom DiGeronimo - neurologist
Offering In House Testing Dr. Tom DiGeronimo is a Board Certified Neurologist who has been practicing in Plant City since 1993. He is a graduate of Harvard College, St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed his Neurology residency at the University of South Florida.
deficit disorder, balance problems, carpal tunnel syndrome, confusion, chronic headaches and back pain, dizziness, epilepsy, extremity numbness, pain and tingling, memory loss, migraines, multiple sclerosis, muscle spasms, neuropathy and vertigo.
“Dr. DiGeronimo is married to Denise and has four children, Elliot, Ryan, Crissa and Carli.� to Dr. DiGeronimo is married and has four children, two daughters-in-law and one grandson.
Diagnostic testing available in our office:
Dr. DiGeronimo treats patients needing general Neurological care including, but not limited to: Alzheimer’s disease, attention
Carotid Doppler Ultrasound-visualize arteries in the neck 2D Echocardiogram-check heart function EEG- (on site and ambulatory)Electroencephalogram- seizures, memory disorders, confusion NCV/EMG- Nerve conduction velocity/
THOMAS A. DIGERONIMO, M.D.,P.A. BOARD CERTIFIED NEUROLOGIST
GLENN D. TURNER, A.R.N.P.
Electromyography- carpal tunnel syndrome, numbness, tingling, neuropathy, radiculopathy Dr. DiGeronimo is on staff at South Florida Baptist Hospital. He and Glenn Turner, A.R.N.P., see patients in Plant City at 3302 W. Baker Street. The Brandon office is located at 645 W. Lumsden Rd. Please call 813-752-1336 for further information.
You are here. So are we. Pediatric Rehabilitation
NOW AVAILABLE
Walden Lake Rehabilitation Services The active lifestyle you love offers no guarantees against injuries, accidents or illness. But should they happen the resources to speed your recovery are close to home at our new Rehabilitation Center. Our rehab team specializes in helping people recover from sports injuries, accidents, joint surgery, stroke and more. We offer:
WE ARE PRIVILEGED TO TREAT YOU LIKE A PART OF OUR FAMILY.
OFFERING TREATMENT FOR ALL NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS SUCH AS: CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME NEUROPATHY CHRONIC PAIN RADICULOPATHY DIZZINESS SEIZURES HEADACHES STROKE MUSCLE DISORDERS
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physical therapy • hand therapy occupational therapy • speech therapy
Outpatient Rehabilitation Center At Walden Lake Medical Arts Center 8 5JNCFSMBOF %SJWF 4VJUF t 1MBOU $JUZ '- 1IPOF 'BY
medstat healthcare services
Serving Plant City more than 15 years
MedStat Healthcare Services Company has been serving the Plant City and Central Florida healthcare community for more than 15 years. What started as a small town physician billing service has grown into a full service billing, consulting and systems provider. In today’s complex world of insurance, government programs and emerging technologies, physicians often find themselves struggling to keep up. In 2007, health care spending in the United States reached $2.3 trillion, and is projected to reach $3 trillion in 2011.
As healthcare continues to expand, physicians may be viewed as the benefactor, however the truth is physician compensation continues to be reduced, technology and documentation requirements are increasing and a physician’s overall cost of doing business tends to exceed any gains. It is these pressures that illustrate the value of MedStat to today’s physicians. The ability to leverage new technology without capital expense, expertise in coding and all aspects of billing, credentialing, staff training, and back office services are
all benefits of partnering with MedStat. We invite practices that are looking for a partner with the experience and professionalism to make an immediate positive impact on their business to contact us. MedStat Healthcare Services, Inc. 1514 S. Alexander St. Suite 204 Plant City, FL 33566 813-545-8601 info@medstat1.com www.medstat1.com
www.medstat1.com
-Healthcare Billing -Patient Billing -Daily E-Claims -Daily E-Remittance -A/R Management -Certified Coders -Carrier Issue Resolution -Concise Monthly Reports -Real Time System Access -Appointment Scheduling
-System Hosting -Practice Management Software -Appointment Scheduling -Management Reports -E-Billing -E-Statements -Electronic Medical Records -User Based Fee Schedule -Fixed Monthly Expense -Automated Data Backup
System Selection & Deployment • Practice Management Consulting • Corporate Services 1514 S. Alexander St. Suite 204 | Plant City, FL 33566 | 813-754-7756 | info@medstat1.com FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 61
premium billing solutions
10 Years of Experience More Than Billing and Collecting
Healthcare is continually changing causing physician reimbursements to be greatly affected. Premium Billing Solutions, Inc. is a company that can reduce the impact these changes can cause. We have 10+ years combined experience specializing in medical billing and collections. We can help with practice management solutions designed specifically for a physician’s practice. Various other practice management solutions are offered such as scheduling, training, financial analysis, insurance negotiations and obtaining contracts with insurance companies. Our experience includes, but is not limited to, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Family Practice, General Surgery, Orthopaedics, Pediatrics, Physical Therapy and Pulmonology. For over eight years, we have been helping physicians reduce their bottom line and grow their practice to the fullest extent. We pride ourselves in our hard, dedicated work and collection efforts. We offer very competitive rates and the best customer service around. Premium Billing Solutions is located at 104 N. Evers Street, Suite 101 in Plant City. Please call 813-659-2502 for more information.
TIRED OF PAIN? %MERGENCIES 7ALK )NS !CCEPTED s 3AME $AY !PPOINTMENTS !VAILABLE
CARING CONCEPTS CHIROPRACTIC CARE s $ISC $ECOMPRESSION 4HERAPY s 3CIENCE "ASED .UTRITION s !UTO 7ORK 3PORTS )NJURIES s .ECK "ACK 0AIN s (EADACHES s #HRONIC 0AIN s !CUPUNCTURE s -ASSAGE 4HERAPY s /N 3ITE 8 2AYS s 3PECIAL #ONSIDERATION FOR THOSE 7ITHOUT )NSURANCE
get all to e nc ie er xp E & se ti er xp E g your business gears turnin www.premiumbillingsolutions.com
PREMIUM BILLING SOLUTIONS, INC. 104 N. Evers St., Suite 101 Plant City, FL 33563
OFFICE: (813) 659-2502 • FAX: (813) 659-2584 FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 62
V.F. Kohlmeier, D.C. T.R. Glenn, D.C. William “B.J.� Garrison, D.C.
Friendly Courteous Staff
0ARTICIPATING IN -OST -AJOR )NSURANCE !ND (-/ 0LANS -EDICARE !SSIGNMENT !CCEPTED
813.754.2273 www.caringconceptsinc.com
“Each Patient Treated For Individual Needs.�
1215 W. Baker St., Plant City, FL 33563
The Health Center of Plant City
State of the Art Care family-like atmosphere Nestled among the pine trees on Wilder Road, not far from the big strawberry water tower, sits the Health Center of Plant City, a 180 bed nursing and rehabilitation center. Originally built in 1985, the facility has recently undergone an extensive remodel with the help of Crawford-Hill Interior Designs. One family member recently stated “It looks so beautiful it reminds me of a fancy hotel instead of a healthcare center.” The rehabilitation wing is separated from the long-term wing and is designed specifically for residents with short-term needs. Physical, occupational, and speech therapists provide treatment in the state-
of-the-art 5,000 square foot therapy gym. All of the rehab rooms come complete with satellite television, telephones, and electric beds. Restaurant style dining allows residents to choose their meals which are prepared by a terrific group of talented cooks. “I’ve gained 30 pounds eating the food here.” stated Stan Weyer, the facility administrator. Of course what really makes the center special is the caring staff. Carolyn Smith, a 23-year partner says “I like the atmosphere because everyone here is like family, the
residents as well as the employees. You can’t come to work and not feel good.” This attitude helped the facility maintain an excellent inspection history with the agency for healthcare administration resulting in a five-star rating, the highest available! Joyce Brown a 22-year partner feels that “This facility is here to take care of, nourish and love people that can no longer take care of themselves, and I think we do a really good job of that.”
Designed and managed specifically for short-term rehabilitation. 7 days a week in-house physical, speech & occupational therapy for flexible rehab Short-term wing separate from long-term Telephone & cable tv in every short-term stay room Electric beds in all rehab rooms Medicare, Medicaid and insurance accepted
813-752-3611
The Health Center of Plant City
Çä£Ê °Ê7 `iÀÊ,`°ÊUÊÜÜÜ° i> Ì Vi ÌiÀ v« > ÌV ÌÞ°V 5 Star rating (the highest rating possible) from the Agency for Health Care Administration
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 63
• General Orthopedics • Total Joint Replacement • Partial Joint Replacement • Mini Incision Joint Replacement • Sports Medicine
QUALITY ORTHOPEDIC CARE CLOSE TO HOME
• Fracture & Injury Care • Arthroscopic Surgery • Ligament Reconstruction
Susan M. Ott, D.O.
Team Physician for Florida Southern College National Healthcare Referral Network for USA Gymnastics & USA Swimming American College of Sport Medicine Certified: Board Certified D.O.
Jeff Finn, PA-C
NCCPA Board Certified
www.sandhillbonejoint.com
Most Major Insurance Plans Accepted 1601 W. Timberlane Dr., Suite 500 Plant City, FL 33567
(813) 754-0817
2008 Medical Issue FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 64
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 65
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 66
FOCUS Magazine plant city • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 67
business & finance businessprofile
Story and photo s by C h e ry l Jo h nsto n
send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Super Discount Pharmacy Super Prices and Service Once upon a time, two co-workers with pharmacy degrees had a dream. Their dream was to co-own a pharmacy where they could compassionately interact with customers. These two pharmacists hoped to fill prescriptions, offer fantastic prices, and take time to ask customers how their medications were working. This dream came to life in September, 2007, when Marta Velasquez, RPH, and Manjit Matharu, RPH, partnered to open Super Discount Pharmacy here in Plant City. The full-service pharmacy is located at 1423 S. Collins Street between Big Lots and El Mirasol Grocery. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 to 6, the store also sells personal toiletries, health care supplies, diapers, and home care products. As a professional service, the pharmacist on duty is available for blood sugar and blood pressure
checks. Also, free delivery is offered to homes or offices. The Velasquez family is from Honduras. Marta earned degrees in chemical engineering and pharmacy, with Florida board certification. Her husband, Alex, with nine years experience in public health and now finishing his Master’s Degree in Public Service, provides social service assistance in areas such as translation, tax preparation, and immigration counseling to the Hispanic population through his company, Hispano America. Their son graduates in two years with a University of Miami medical degree, and their daughter will attend medical school after her upcoming USF graduation. Obviously, gifts for science, math, and compassion abound in this family.
The store’s fresh and bright interior invites customers to linger for conversation.
Pharmacist Marta Velasquez listens to the Lopez family, whose 6-year old son has leukemia. FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 68
The Matharu family also believes in giving back to their community and humanity. Manjit received his pharmaceutical chemist degree and first board certification in Great Britain, prior to his Florida board certification. His wife, Jasbir, helps in the store. Their three children attend college and high school, pursuing their own American dreams. Since the pharmacists and employees are bi-lingual, communications with Spanish-speaking customers is second-nature. Additionally, HispanoAmerica, with an office in the store, assists clients in translation and documentation requirements for often complicated paperwork. Both companies desire to help clients improve living standards, levels of education, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, American lifestyle. Two young employees diligently greet customers, stock shelves, clean the store, and prepare orders for delivery. Both Ivette Sanchez, a former medical
The Lopez family enjoys communicating in Spanish with pharmacist Marta Velasquez, RPH.
assistant, and Rey Castro, an aspiring accountant or criminal justice professional, enjoy the pleasant atmosphere and personal service approach at Super Discount Pharmacy. Recently, a customer stopped in for his prescription after leaving a chemotherapy treatment. Ivette noticed he was faint and rushed to the kitchen for hot chicken soup. Apparently, he hadn’t eaten enough and his body needed energy. Quick service by quickthinking employees – that’s super treatment in anyone’s book. So, whether your need is common cold medicine, prescription fulfillment, or simply a listening ear and friendly smile, stop by Super Discount Pharmacy soon. As you shop here, you’ll find new friends and help these compassionate American dreamers’ business to grow. Whether your prescription is brand new or a transfer, they’re anxious to serve. Visit today for your medicines, their best prices, and incredibly personal attention – a winning combination for sure. Contact Super Discount Pharmacy by phone (813)752-1133, or have prescriptions faxed to (813)752-8866. The Mathuru and the Velasquez families say, “Welcome.”
business & finance investing
s ubmit ted by e dward jo ne s
Financial Focus What Can You Expect from a Financial Advisor?
The investment world can be complex — and trying to navigate it by yourself is a daunting task. That’s why you may want to work with a professional financial advisor — someone with the experience, expertise and resources to help you reach all your important financial objectives. Your first task, then, is to find a financial advisor with whom you will be comfortable. Ask your friends, relatives and co-workers for referrals, and don’t be shy about interviewing a few financial advisors. When you’re talking to prospective advisors, look for someone who stresses comprehensive financial strategies, rather than individual transactions. Ideally, you will want someone who asks questions such as these: • What are your goals? You’ll need a financial advisor who shows considerable interest in your short- and long-term goals. After all, you’ll want this person to help you accomplish a variety of things — saving for a new home, sending your children to college, attaining a comfortable retirement lifestyle and so on. • What does your family situation look like? A financial advisor will ask you a lot of family-related questions: How many children do you have? Do you plan to send them to college? Does your spouse have a retirement plan at work? Do you have aging parents who may require some type of assistance from you? By eliciting this type of information, a financial advisor can help you create a “family-friendly” investment plan. • What are your attitudes toward investment risk? A conscientious financial advisor will determine if you are a conservative investor (who favors investments that offer a greater likelihood of preservation of principal), an aggressive investor (who is comfortable taking greater risks in hopes of greater returns) or a moderate investor (who falls between the other two groups). • What investments do you currently own? For a financial advisor to do a thorough job, he or she will need a complete understanding of your current holdings: your IRA, 401(k), stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit (CDs) — everything. Once a financial advisor knows what you have, he or she can identify any potential gaps in your portfolio and make appropriate recommendations for filling them. • What are your feelings about leaving a legacy? For many people, the issue of leaving a legacy is highly emotional. A good financial advisor will probe your attitudes toward leaving a legacy and help develop strategies that support your goals in this area. As you work toward your financial objectives, you’ll have a lot of questions. Just make sure your financial advisor does, too.
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 69
business & finance success
Sto ry a n d photo by ashl ey gran t
Marc Waller Owner & Operator of Country Village Power Equipment Marc Waller was born and raised in Plant City, like his father and mother. His family owned a hardware business that his grandfather and father worked in. Through working at this store himself and learning the value of hard work early in his life, Marc Waller took his business sense and turned it into a profitable business of his own selling and servicing golf cars as well as lawn equipment. My aspiration: I worked at Waller’s (the family business) through High School. When I graduated in 1981 I had the dream to work and run the family business, but in 1989 I left the Hardware store to start Country Village Power Equipment with the help of my father. My inspiration: My wife and I are volunteers at Plant City Church of God in the Soul’d out youth ministries and it is our faith in God that has kept us going and together, through the tough times. Why I’m a Success: I owe a lot of my success to my Father. He has not only helped me get started and has plenty of advice, but he showed me early on, the value of hard work. I would be remise though if I did not include my wife and the employees that help run the business. What’s Next: I hope to expand my business (a new facility is in the plans), and to continue to serve both the community for their golf car/power equipment needs and working with the youth in our church to be a positive influence. FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 70
SOMETHING WORTH SHARING
We’re proud of the news coverage we’ve received, and hope to build upon these accomplishments. We know that our success is your success. Thank you. Read All About It FORTUNE Magazine February 4, 2008 For the ninth year, Edward Jones was named one of the ‘100 Best Companies to Work For’ in America by FORTUNE magazine in its annual listing. The firm ranked No. 4 overall and No. 2 on the magazine’s Best Large-sized Company list. These nice FORTUNE rankings include top 10 finishes for six years and consecutive No. 1 rankings in 2002 and 2003.
Registered Rep. December 2007 For the 15th consecutive year, Edward Jones took the No. 1 spot in Registered Rep. magazine’s annual survery where advisors from the nation’s seven largest brokerages grade their firms’ product, quality, service and support.
Smart Money August 2007 Edward Jones again was named the No.1 full service brokerage firm in the August edition of SmartMoney magazine. The firl placed ahead of six other firms and recieved high marks in the four categories surveyed by the magazine: stock picking, customer satisfaction, trust and customer statements. Edward Jones, which also ranked No.1 in 2005, received five out of five stars in client statements and customer satisfaction.
The Luxury Institute August 2007 Edward Jones was named the No. 1 full service retail brokerage among affluent investors by The Luxury Institute. The firm placed at the top of the study and posted above-average ratings in effectivemess, personnel, and environment. The study concluded that Edward Jones ‘is the only brand with above-average ratings on all aspects of the customer service experience.’ Stephen W Shouse &INANCIAL !DVISOR s 3 !LEXANDER 3TREET s 3UITE 0LANT #ITY &, s Michael Cameron &INANCIAL !DVISOR s 4HONOTOSASSA 2D 0LANT #ITY &, s Tim Shuff &INANCIAL !DVISOR s . %VERS 3T 3UITE 0LANT #ITY &, s Jeff Dove &INANCIAL !DVISOR s *AMES 2EDMAN 0KWY 0LANT #ITY &, s FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 71
business & finance success
sto ry an d photo by Ashl ey G rant
Buddy Johnson Supervisor of Elections Hillsborough County
Phillip E. “Buddy� Johnson was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1991 where he represented Plant City and Brandon for three terms. He was appointed the Supervisor of Elections for Hillsborough County on Jan 27, 2003, by Governor Bush. Buddy is the co-founder of BuddyFreddys Restaurants with his brother, Fred Johnson. The Plant City Chamber of Commerce named the Johnson brothers the “Small Businessmen of the Year� in 1988. He graduated cum laude from the University of South Florida with a B.A. in Religious Studies in 1976 and is the proud father of three children, Phillip, Steven and Hannah. (AS BEEN SERVING THE ,AKELAND !REA SINCE $URING THAT TIME WE HAVE GROWN AND EXPANDED OUR SERVICES TO MEET THE CHANGING NEEDS OF OUR CLIENTELE
#OME AND TASTE THE $IFFERENCE 863.644.3363 4110 S Florida Ave., Suite 100 • Lakeland, FL 33813
ww w.D eliD elicacies.co m FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 72
My Inspiration: Jesus Christ and my parents, the example of my parents. My kids and my girlfriend Cyndi are also my inspiration. My Aspiration: To live an honest life that maximizes my time, talents and opportunities‌whether that be in politics or business. I want to have a positive influence with all I come in contact with. Why I’m a Success: God’s grace and hard work. What’s Next: To win the re-election in November as the Supervisor of Elections and continue the wonderful work of democracy there.
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FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 73
A long history of putting Florida in Good Hands . ÂŽ
In 1939, Allstate opened its doors in Florida. The Sunshine State was just beginning its population boom. In 1970, the number of people in Dade County alone had quadrupled. As Florida added families, they needed insurance to protect those new homes and cars. And life insurance to protect loved ones. Allstate was there to put them in Good Hands. Most of the time, the sun shone on our prosperous state. But along the way, Allstate, Allstate Floridian and the people of Florida weathered many major hurricanes together, including four of the worst on record. Today, after more than 65 years, Allstate and Allstate Floridian continue to be there serving over 2 million households in this state. s !LLSTATE PROTECTS MORE THAN MILLION &LORIDA VEHICLES !ND WE JUST STARTED offering Your Choice Auto here—an innovative product with the unique rate population of Accident Forgiveness, as well as extra rewards for safe Florida drivers, like Deductible Rewards and the Safe Driving Bonus Check. s !LLSTATE EMPLOYS PEOPLE IN THIS STATE AND !LLSTATE AGENTS PROVIDE jobs for another 3,000 Floridians. s 4HE !LLSTATE &OUNDATION SUPPORTS THE &LORIDA CHAPTERS OF DOZENS OF WORTHY ORGANIZATIONS THROUGH GRANTS AND VOLUNTEERS INCLUDING 4HE !MERICAN 2ED Cross, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Junior Achievement, Urban League, Salvation Army, American Cancer Society and the YMCA. s !LLSTATE )NVESTED BILLION IN &LORIDA MUNICIPAL BONDS LAST YEAR 4HAT MONEY goes to build local roads, schools, parks—the infrastructure that makes our state a great place to live.
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 74
s !LLSTATE IS COMMITTED TO REDUCING TEEN DEATHS FROM CAR ACCIDENTS ,AST YEAR 680 Florida high schools received our teen safe driving toolkit. Allstate Floridian insures thousands of dwellings in Florida. Even when we’ve had to say goodbye to a valued homeowner customer, our Allstate agents were there to make sure they were protected by helping them find insurance through a network of reputable independent insurance companies. Allstate employees, agents and their staffs live here, work here, and help provide protection to the people of this state as proudly as they always have. With Allstate, You’re in Good Hands.
RALPH L. FEOLA, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF (813) 752- 2556 1003 S Collins St Plant City a026519@allstate.com The Cupped Hands logo and “Good Hands� are registered service marks of Allstate Insurance Company Auto Insurance issued by Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrock, IL. Property insurance issued by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company, St. Petersburg, FL. Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company, while part of the Allstate group are not underwritten or reinsured by any other company in the Allstate group. Š 2008 Allstate Insurance Company
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 75
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. 7 ( % % , % 2 3 42 % % 4 s FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 76
SUMMER CAMP!
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HOME GUIDE
97
This is a special advertising section
MEET TEAM WAINORIS!
In the back row, from left to right is Kathleen, Randy and Courtney. In the front row we have Kirsten and Bradley. While Randy and Kathleen are out there helping buyers and sellers with their real estate needs, the rest of the team is always there to help! Whether they are stuffing envelopes, helping to hand out flyers, or taking messages, Team Wainoris is definitely a team effort. Put our team to work for you!
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EXIT REALTY IS GROWING FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 77
A JEWEL OF A FIND
Just minutes over County Line Rd in Mulberry, you‘ll find a gem! 1512 SF, 3Bd/2Ba, nicely maintained on 1.30 acre on corner lot. A steal of a deal at $99,900! #87
2 HOMES ON COUNTRY LANE!
Beautifully maintained 3Bd/2Ba, DW-completely remodeled offers everything you need! Enjoy 2nd SW - 2Bd/1Ba-shows great for rental or in-laws! Also garage, office & 2 sheds a great value on quiet country retreat located on gorgeous 1.19 acres w/citrus galore - Price to sell at $179,900. #79
ROUND ‘EM UP PARTNER! PERFECT FOR HORSES, CRITTERS & KIDS!
PRE-FORECLOSURE-WALDEN LAKE-FLAWLESS INTERIOR
Distinctive inventor‘s personal home w/attention to energy saving details avoids costly energy bills! Unique floor plan w/nearly 4000 SF, 6Bds, 3Ba & 2 half Ba, soaring ceilings in GT rm. Split plan for extended families or in-laws. Impressive glass staircase & many more amenities, present this Dallas setting of 12.12 ac w/5 stall horse barn in Thonotosassa, Get Away - minutes from Tampa. A Must See at $895,000. #39
3/2, 2091 SF, located in desirable Forest Hammock. Separate LR, FR & DR. MB features tray ceilings, H & H closets, separate garden tub & shower. Plenty of room for parking and a steal at only $249,900.#76
GREAT HOME FOR YOUNG FAMILIES
$100,000 REDUCTION
QUIET COUNTRY LANE…
SUNSHINE AND WINDCHIMES
BEGINNERS‘ BARGAIN BUNGALOW
PRIVATE WOOD SETTING
NESTLE YOURSELF
PARK-LIKE YOU!
This 3/2, 1144 sf home is located walking distance to Plant City Hospital & medical offices. Built in 1989, features separate family, dining and inside ldry. Kids’ll love fenced back yard w/plenty of play area & above ground pool. Priced at only $159,900.#55
3Bd, 1Ba, 816 SF vinyl sided home. Close to shopping and schools, this one won‘t bust your budget. Front and back porches, with some work and imagination, this could be a great start. 2 nice sheds and a pretty lot. Great price @ $69,900.#53
Spread your wings & all your things on 5 AC & 3BD/2BA, huge FR, LR & office w/2432 SF, new gourmet kitchen, granite counters, upgraded appliances, custom cabinetry, DR & tile floors. SC Lanai, wkshop & 4 C CPT. A retreat from the hustle of it all! A must see! $399,000. (adjoining 5ac w/hm avail) #83
One acre of relaxed living, w/3BD/2BA, 1719 sf. Superbly designed kitchen w/center cooking island. Lg family rm & formal dining rm, great for entertaining. Kids will enjoy the majestic trees that shade the fenced back yard. Only $149,900. #58
4Bd/3Ba, 2474 SF, cathedral ceilings w/fireplace in LR, huge FR, & custom kitchen w/ appliances. Sparkling heated pool w/spa & lanai. 4 car garage & separate16x12 room makes this Dad’s dream come true - on 3.03 acres.. Great value for $469,000. #20
Amidst the Oaks & find a charming Farm House Bungalow! 1304 SF in great condition w/laminate floors, 2/3 Bd, 2 Ba, updated kitchen w/appl, Bonus Rm & huge sc lanai. 2 pole barns & 3 sheds on beautiful 2.32ac. A great deal @ $219,900. #36
RENTALS:
ACREAGE AND COMMERCIAL:
SPACE FOR LEASE:
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
ALEXANDER ST-
Law Office space available (approx. 2491SF.) for up to four attorneys in downtown Plant City. Two blocks from Plant City Courthouse. Includes kitchen, conference room and reception area. $2150/Month. Call for more details.
RENTAL - $750.00 Month
Maki Rd. 2Bd/1.5Ba Condo, 2 story, near Plant City High School. 1st Mo. and security.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS MARKET-
Stake your claim on this beautiful, partially wooded 2.5 acres located minutes from I-4, w/conservation on rear to buffer neighbors, this great buy is a country paradise for your dream home! Make offer - Owner Says Sell! $95,900. #85
SETTING
AWAITS
3Bd/2Ba, 2005 DW, better than new, beautifully maintained country setting. $127,900. A must see! #17
WOW! 4 ACRES FOR $179,900!!
Bring your house plans, 4 gorgeous acres in Springhead on Wiggins Rd. Lovely, ideal for your dream home, pond for fishin‘ days. You‘ll love quiet, cleared pasture in great location - Must see! No Home Owner fees, No Restrictions! #86
COUNTRY LIVING & CONVENIENTLY LOCATED
This secluded property is located on 2.02 acres with a singlewide mobile home. The lot size is 190‘x 413‘. Conveniently located off I-4 between Tampa & Plant City. Survey available, call for details. Priced at $123,000. #99
SIX BEAUTIFUL BUILDING LOTS
Awaits your dream home. Located minutes from Plant City & Lakeland, sites offer 1.25 acres. Motivated seller says Bring Offers! Priced at $480,000 for 7.55 acres or $80,000 per 1.25 acres. Please call for more info. #107
RECEIVE FLAT SCREEN TV WHEN YOU PURCHASE A HOME THRU VOGEL REALTY. CALL FOR INFO.
1514 S. Alexander St., #203, Plant City, FL 33563
813-659-3306 www.vogelrealtyservices.com
Enjoy them both while sitting on patio of this 3Bd/2Ba Forest Park beauty w/nearly 1800 SF. Family friendly split floor plan offers convenient large open, fully equipped kitchen/Fm rm combo. Warm wood laminate flooring & ceramic enhances floors. A Must See @ $234,900. #5
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FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 79
RENEE CORZINE KELLER WILLIAMS
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813-752-1960 SARAH ZELLER-BADAT
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Don’t miss the chance to have one of the best Walden Lake has to offer. This true 5 bedroom, 4 bath home also has a roomy office/den with its own private bath that leads outside. Situated on a spacious conservation lot, this home is ready for a large family. From the freshly painted interior and tasteful decorating to the amazing floor plan, this place is one you will love to call home. Call Sarah today for details.
813.763.5676 1607 S. Alexander Street Suite 102 Plant City, FL FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 82
Don’t let the low price fool you. This is a great 3/2.5 home with a wonderful screened in porch, fenced backyard and great floorplan. Just a little TLC could make this home perfect for anyone!! Call today for a showing. 155,000.00
Janet Calvello 813-967-1939 RealtorÂŽ
Becky Bowdish 813-376-2100
Jayne Rawnsley 813-763-0495
Property Manager/Realtor
ÂŽ
RealtorÂŽ
Barbara Layton 813-967-1937 RealtorÂŽ
Brenda Salyers 813-230-1120 RealtorÂŽ
Carol Brassart 813-918-4248 RealtorÂŽ
David Scruggs 813-695-2035 RealtorÂŽ
Sue Daniels 813-751-4035 RealtorÂŽ
Terri Caroll 813-508-1957 RealtorÂŽ
SALES DIVISION IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD NOW
â&#x20AC;&#x153;LAUREL LAKE single family home / condo in gated community within Walden Lake. Excellent condition. 2 bedrooms plus Den/ Office and a 10X18 Florida Room. Split bedrooms, 2 car garage. Golf course community, Walking Trails. Seller Very Motivated. Bring all reasonable offers! $248,000 Call Jayne Rawnsley at 813-763-0495â&#x20AC;?
GREAT 4 BDRM HOUSE REDUCED TO $200,000. WHAT A DEAL. 18â&#x20AC;? TILE THRU LIVING AREAS & bATHS, LAMINATE WOOD FLOOR IN ONE BEDROOM, OTHERS ARE CARPETED. MASTER HAS WALK IN CLOSET, GARDEN TUB, SEPARATE WALK IN SHOWER. NEW ROOF, NEW APPLIANCES, MUST SEE.PRISTINE CONDITION, MOVE RIGHT IN. CALL JANET CALVELLO 813-967-1939
Rental Very cute 3/2br home in Royal Hills community. Ready to move into.Split plan with sliding glass doors to screen patio off great room 2 car garage $1150. Call Terrie Caroll 813-508-1957
LOVELY VIEWS from this 3Bed/2Bath home. COMPLETELY RENOVATED. Large DECK and DOCK with 10,000LB BOAT LIFT overlooking DEEP WATER. Open floor plan, Large Kitchen, Fireplace in Living area with Wonderful Views! Must see this one. Call Carol Brassart 813-918-4248
Two master suites! Custom built home with hardwood flooring, Large front porch, screened covered back porch. Has 3 bedrooms but could be 4 or 5 easily. Two car garage And a 3 car carport with enclosed 10x30 section for workshop! Call Brenda Salyers 813-230-1120.
MAXIMUM ENJOYMENT. 2/2 home in deed restricted community for 55 & older. 27 hole golf course, tennis courts, 2 swimming pools, 3 clubhouses, 26 indoor shuffleboard courts. NOT a rental park. Own you lot. Home completely furnished including linens and dishes. 12â&#x20AC;&#x2122; x 30â&#x20AC;&#x2122; garage with separate golf cart door and 12â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x39â&#x20AC;&#x2122; carport. REALTOR owned. $129,900. Sue Daniels @ (813) 751-4035.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it be nice to spend this summer relaxing by the pool & bbq in this Valrico 3/2/2 Pool home? Kitchen with dinette; Formal dining; Family rm with vaulted ceiling. $180,000. T2303235 Call David Scruggs 813-695-2035
Rentals Kentwood Condoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2-1-1/2 $ 700.00 2/2 Walden Lake villa $ 1100 3/2 single family fenced yard $ 900 3/2 single family $995 to $ 1050 Call Becky Bowdish 813-376-2100
GREAT FOR INVESTOR Villa is rented until next year & tenants would like to stay longer if possible.... 2 Bedroom 2 Bath in Walden Lake-Price Reduced to $160,000 Excellent conditionNew Range, Refrigerator, and Dishwasher. Washer-Dryer stay. New tile in Living room, Dining Room, Hallways and Kitchen. Call Barbara Layton (813) 967-1937
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208 Apollo Beach Blvd. Apollo Beach, FL 33572
Hate Income Taxes?
Contact me for a free, no obligation consultation about the income tax implications of your real estate transaction BEAUTIFUL CRAFTSMANS STYLE 2,592 sq ft 3 bedroom 2 bath nome located on about .44 acres in the Historic District of Plant City. This home has a spacious unfinished attic with loads of potential for additional living space. There is a fireplace in the living room, detached garage, and front and rear porches. Asking $250,000 Adjacent .80 acres under folio #20760630-0050 is being sold separately.
E IC ED PR UC D RE
GREAT LOCATION!! 1 acre mol zoned C-1A w/ ELU multifamily on the corner of Thonotosassa Rd and Mobley St in Plant City. Perfect for a medical facility given close proximity to South Florida Baptist Hospital. City water and sewer close by. Buyer should confirm details with city. Asking $400,000 (http://mid-floridahomes.com/373288) 5.2 ACRE MOL PROPERTY This 5.2 acre mol property is located on Colson Rd and is just minutes to Plant City, shopping, and dining yet still provides seclusion and privacy. Asking $225,000.
HAVE THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Quiet country living close to shopping and dining. This property sits on 5 wooded acres and is only 3.5 miles to Fishhawk, 10 miles to Plant City, and 1.5 miles to Aldermans Ford Park. This home has 2,450 sq. ft., four bedrooms, four bathrooms, pool and spa, and stone woodburning fireplace. New roof within past five years. RESIDENTIAL LOTS IN HISTORIC DISTRIC This property is currently being divided into residential lots and is zoned R-1A. Buildable residential lots in this part of the Historic District of Plant City are not available very often. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.
$
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1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Luxury Apartment Homes Features: Full size washer/dryer connections Breakfast area in most floor plans
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High-speed internet access • 9 foot ceilings 24 hour fitness center • Car care center Gated community • Detached garages available Pet friendly • 7-12 month leases 1 mile from I-4
2120 Village Park Road ~ Plant City 813.719.1850 ~ www.Gables.com Mon.-Fri. 9-6 ~ Sat. 10-5 FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 84
LOCALLY OWNED OPERATED TIMOTHY W. TEW P.L.S. OWNER/PRESIDENT
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FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 85
homes homeguide
submitted by n ata l i e s w e et
Walden Lake Review The April Board of Directors and President’s meeting was held April 21st. All members were in attendance including new board members, Greg Horwedel and Jack Wolff. Greg is the Assistant City Manager for the City of Plant City and a Forest Park resident and Jack is a semi retired real estate attorney and Hammocks resident. Dick Shiller had presented his plan for a dog park at the Polo Field at the Annual Meeting and was in attendance to answer any questions prior to the board voting for approval to use funds for a site study. The site study will identify where the dog park would be located and all the cost elements. After discussion, the board approved the spending of up to $1800 for the study. There was discussion about trees hanging over the path around the lake and if the trees were on the WL Golf & Country Club or the association’s property. Tom Duramus said that he felt sure that if the trees were on the club’s land that Steve Mercer wouldn’t have a problem with the
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 86
association removing the tree(s) to allow a clear path around the lake path. Despite what the newspaper reported, watering is still only one time per week in Plant City. Please check the proper day by the last number of your address. The city’s website is http://www. plantcitygov.com/ and can be found under the Departments/Public Works tab. At the annual meeting, an issue about trash cans being placed along the trail around the lake was brought forth. The board voted and decided to add 2 trash cans along the trail. Another issue that was brought up at the annual meeting was to have all the communities in Walden Lake to have one set of covenants. The matter was discussed and decided that it would not be a viable option to have one set of covenants. Several of the Presidents of the communities, that are taking advantage of the master association
enforcement of their deed restrictions, gave testimonials about how well this has been working for their neighborhoods. Once again, loose pets are a problem. Please remember that all pets, including cats, must be leashed and you must pick up their droppings. The question about the new flood zone maps was brought up. Greg Horwedel addressed this issue. He said that the maps are not finalized and the city has been working to successfully eliminate some of the areas originally placed in the new flood zones. He also noticed that the flood map at the Association’s office was not the most current. Tom will get the most recent map posted. The maps are also posted outside of the City Engineer’s department at the City Hall. Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is planning the summer golf and tennis camps for kids. The dates will be announced soon. Please check in with the club for more details. Also, don’t forget to check out great summer deals for golf.
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 87
Natalie Sweet 813-758-9586
Larry Jimenez 813-267-6740
Carrie Lang 813-767-3459
Cathy Martin 813-376-0891
Angel Miller 813-546-9863
For “Another Sweet Sale” Call 813-758-9586. Call Us For All Your Real Estate Needs! GATED HAMPTON PLACE
STUNNING GOLF COURSE HOME
WALDEN LAKE WONDERFUL
Stretch out with over 2900 sq’ on the golf course. 4 large bedrooms & office, gorgeous master suite with sitting room. The kitchen features a huge pantry, granite countertops, 42” Cherry Cabinets & wrap around breakfast bar. Bathrooms have upgraded tile. $417,900. Call Natalie Today to see this BEAUTY! 758-9586
The minute you walk in, you’ll notice the pride of ownership in this well maintained 2800 sq’ 4 Bedroom 3 Bath Home w/3 Car Garage. Kitchen & Baths all have Granite Countertops. Larger Family Room w/Fireplace, Heated Pool & Spa and lush Landscaping frame this marvelous home. $397,500 Call Natalie 813-758-9586
Rare find on cul-de-sac in Aston Woods with 2884 sq’. Fabulous 2 story home with formal & family areas. Enjoy entertaining around the pool/spa and enormous yard. $365,000 Call Natalie 813-758-9586
CHARMING GOLF COURSE HOME
WALDEN LAKE MODEL PERFECT
VALRICO BEAUTY
Live the fine life in the prestigious Aston Woods neighborhood in Walden Lake. The lovely landscaped setting sets the stage as you enter this wonderful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, great room floor plan with formal dining room and large kitchen w/center island. $299,500 Call Natalie 758-9586.
You’ll love the colors in this wonderully decorated home. Over 2600 sq’ with 4 large Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths and huge bonus room. Recently pained outside, fenced & large screened lanai with gorgeous yard. $268,900 Call Natalie 758-9586.
Upgraded 3/2/2 Pool home on quite street with no backyard neighbors. Beautiful view from the knoll the home rests on to enjoy cookouts & the gazebo by the pool. This house is move in ready-all it needs is you! $224,500. Call Cathy at 376-0891.
GREAT HOME CLOSE TO EVERYTHING
GREAT HOME GREAT LOCATION
WALDEN LAKE FOR $165,000!
Welcome to this 3-4 Bedroom Home w/2 Baths, Huge Great Room, Nice Yard w/Utility Shed & almost new Roof. This home has been very lovingly cared for by it’s owners. $189,900 Call Natalie for more details!
Charming 3 bedroom 2 bath home with great room & 2 car garage on beatiful corner lot. Enjoy the screened lanai and the front porch with swing. Don’t let the price fool you, this is a great home! Call Angel 546-9863.
DON’T LET THE AGE FOOL YOU
PRICED TO SELL
NEWER HOME ON 4.9 A WITH GREENBELT
This 1925 Bungalow is all NEW! Everything has been updated inside and out from the floor to the roof. You will love the gorgeous NEW Kitchen with Granite Countertops and New Appliances. A Must See! $149,500 Call Natalie 813-758-9586
3 Bedroom 1 1/2 Bath Home on nice lot in convenient location for easy commute and shopping. New tile floors. Price to sell at only $108,500. Call Natalie for more details 758-9586.
Fabulous Just Like NEW Home with tons of upgrades & 2400 sq’ of living space. Featuring Solar Heated Pool, 2 Gas Fireplaces, Central Vacuum, Granite Countertops, GE Profile Appliances, Crown Molding & so much more! Call Natalie for your personal tour 758-9586.
3 Bedroom, 2 Bath w/out deed restrictions in quiet neighborhood. Almost 1800 sq’ w/over sized screed patio w/brick pavers & heated spa. Large in town lot. $190,000 Call Natalie Sweet 758-9586.
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PAINTING ALSO AVAILABLE FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;¢ may 15 - june 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 89
MODEL NOW OPEN Single Family Homes from the $180â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1,286 to 1,950 s.f. of living space Standard lot 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122; x 110â&#x20AC;&#x2122;
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Paula Davis Meyers Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. Standard features may vary per ďŹ&#x201A;oor plan and community.
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Write about your community! FOCUS Magazine is looking for freelance writers to cover community events in Lakeland, Brandon or Winter Haven
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1406 W. Knight GrifďŹ n Rd Planty City, FL
752-3306
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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ may 15 - june 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 90
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R UBBER M ULCH
s u b mit t e d by n at e dav i s
When to be Concerned
An ARM is cause for concern Did you hear about the house that sold down the street for next to nothing? You should be concerned about these sales in your area if your have an adjustable rate mortgage, or if you are considering a refinance in the near future. Let me say that again, YOU SHOULD BE CONCERNED about these sales in your area if you are considering a refinance in the near future. If you have owned your home for at least 12 months and want or need to refinance then the value of your home will be determined by an appraisal. An appraisal MUSTconsider RECENT home sales in the IMMEDIATE area. So if a home sells for a low price in your area, guess what happens to your appraisal? You got it, it goes down. Here is the problem IF you need to refinance your home. As your value (appraisal) decreases, the loan amount you carry becomes a greater percentage of the value. This is commonly referred to as Loan to Value (LTV). A high LTV loan is riskier and thus more expensive (higher interest rate) than a low LTV loan. Home prices are continuing to fall and this is why I say, if you are considering a refinance on your home, you should do it yesterday. Again, this is not some sales pitch, I will explain.…. Delaying a refinance when home prices are dropping can AND often do result in one of the following:
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A) You carry a higher rate than you need to if you acted sooner (before those low sales hit your appraisal) B) You previously had a 70% LTV (ex. 100,000 value with a 70,000 loan), but now your value has dropped and your LTV is at 82% (85,000 value with a 70,000 loan). Anytime your LTV is greater than 80%, you carry mortgage insurance with your mortgage. There are ways around this, but sometimes it is a must. C) If you have an adjustable rate mortgage and wait too long. When it is too late you realize that your payoff plus closing costs exceed your homes value and you are stuck with a payment that consistently increases. You can do nothing despite your good credit and income because at the end of the day a lender will not loan 120,000 on a 100,000 home. You can read about these people in the paper or in the statistics in the news every day. Their payments continue to escalate and they have no other options but to continue to try and make the increasing payments. It is always best to consult a mortgage planner to discuss your plans and options well in advance of your anticipated refinance. This will ensure you get the best deal. If you have any specific mortgage related questions, please feel free to email your questions to Nate@PlantCityMortgages.com Nate Davis – Home Loan Specialist – 813.763.3910
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 92
Randall & Kathleen Wainoris
REALTOR® / Attorney at Law
REALTOR® / Notary
PLANT CITY CIRCA 1900
Charming two story turn of the century colonial. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths with new roof and a/c. Home has been completely rewired with a totally remodeled kitchen. Large corner lot with beautiful mature trees and detached garage. Reduced to only $225,000
PLANT CITY WITH NO DEED RESTRICTIONS
Over 4100 sq. foot, 4 bedroom 2 story home on 1/2 acre. Dramatic entry, living room with wood burning fireplace. Downstairs master suite, separate hobby/computer room, and separate family/game room. Gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Beautiful property. Seller says Bring Offers!
Selling Plant City and Lakeland Multi-Million Dollar Producer
813-997-3000 863-608-1557 sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com
863-688-2822
TOLL FREE: 888-488-2822 • FAX 813-659-0196
LAND O LAKES BEAUTY
Beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bath pool home. Family room with fireplace, granite kitchen, and new flooring throughout. Very open split plan with private fenced yard and view of tranquil pond. Reduced to just $274,900.
NEED SPACE?
Huge price reduction on this magnificent 5 bed, 4 bath golf course pool home. Over 3600 feet of living area with volume ceilings, formal areas and family room with fireplace and wet bar. Lush landscaping and huge outdoor patio surrounding pool. Gourmet kitchen w/ granite counters and stainless appliances. Only $399,000.
PLANT CITY MARKET UPDATE by Randall Wainoris, JD, MBA IS IT BETTER TO KEEP SAVING YOUR MONEY OR BUY NOW? COUNTRY HOME ON 1.18 ACRES Adorable 3 bedroom home with detached workshop and no deed restrictions Only $174,900.
CARE FREE LIVING
Immaculate 2 bed/2 bath Lakeland condo. Private back yard, covered parking. Asking $136,900.
LAKELAND 3 BEDROOM CONDO
Completely renovated 3 bed 2 1/2 bath Lake Bentley condo. Price reduced to just $124,900.
4.84 ACRES.....REDUCED TO SELL! 3 bedrooms, plus den, F/R with fireplace, island kitchen and wood deck. Only $199,500.
Before we make a big decision such as purchasing a new home, don’t you wish you had a crystal ball? Are interest rates going to rise? Are local house values going to increase? Will a hurricane blow through my neighborhood this fall? Although we wish we could predict the future, all we can do is take use the information we know and try to make the best decision possible using that information. We do know that interest rates are at historic lows, and that they probably can’t go much lower. What happens if, as many experts predict, interest rates begin to rise? On a typical $250,000, 30 year mortgage, your principal and interest payment at 6% interest is about $1,498.88. If rates were to increase to just 7%, your payment would increase to $1,633.26; or an additional $1,972.56 per year! Over the life of your loan, you would pay almost an additional $60,000! What does this mean to the average home buyer? Basically, if you keep putting your money under your pillow; trying to save for that new home........ buy the time you save that extra few thousand dollars to supposedly lower your monthly payment; as rates start to rise, you may find that your total payment has actually increased! Despite what you may have read, home mortgages are still available with very little or no money down. Many buyers we have worked with recently have actually been able to purchase their new home with less than $1,000.00 out of pocket! Thinking of buying or selling? Please call us today to see how we can help you in your individual real estate needs.
DAVENPORT DREAM Immaculate 4 bed/2 bath pool home with no back yard neighbors! Freshly painted inside and out. Great location. Price reduced again to just $209,000
INVESTMENT INCOME!
Two unit Auburndale duplex. Each unit has 2 beds & 2 baths and newer roof. Solid rental history. Asking $135,000.
*Please consult your tax advisor for your individual tax considerations.
Exit Realty is Growing WWW.TEAMWAINORIS.COM
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homes realestate
s u b mit t e d by jo - a n l u s k
Current Market Conditions What Pros Are Saying?
What are real estate professionals saying to homebuyers and sellers about current market conditions? The successful brokers and sales associates are talking about the strengths that exist in the market â&#x20AC;&#x201D; not the negative media hype. Below are positive angles that appeared recently in the media and underscore why it is a good time to buy real estate. Recent Quotes about the Positive Signs in the Real Estate Market:
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Americans Optimistic about Homeownership â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AOL/Zogby Poll Americans still feel optimistic about homeownership, according to a recent survey from AOL Real Estate and Zogby International. More than half of the survey respondents said they believe homeownership is still attainable for most people. Continued messaging about the long-term investment value of a home is taking hold: 69 percent of those surveyed said they see real estate as a viable investment; 31 percent of participants said they feel their home is worth more today than it was a year ago, and 56 percent do not think their home will be worth less in five years. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;buyers marketâ&#x20AC;? message is taking hold as well. According to the survey, if Americans had to sell today, 50 percent would consider buying another home instead of waiting out the market and renting. -- â&#x20AC;&#x153;AOL/Zogby Survey: U.S. Trends on Home Values,â&#x20AC;? AOL Real Estate, April 21, 2008.
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Home Affordability Provides Opportunity for First Time Homebuyers â&#x20AC;&#x153;The home affordability index is at a 58 month high and I think that first-time buyers have noticed this. â&#x20AC;Ś Thirty-nine percent of homebuyers now are first-time homebuyers.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Interest rates are at historic lows, inventory levels make this a buyers market because thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot more to choose from and prices are relatively flat across most of the country.â&#x20AC;? -- Jim Gillespie, president and CEO, Coldwell Banker, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Real Estate Realities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Interview with Jim Gillespie,â&#x20AC;? CNBC (video), April 22, 2008. So, there IS some good news after all... happy house hunting!
FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ may 15 - june 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 94
WEDGEWOOD LAKE ESTATES
Fabulous Lake Gibson home. Open floor plan with great lake views from family room and kitchen. Plenty of room for entertaining, open living and dining with fireplace and soaring ceilings. Large kitchen with nook and family room. Master is located on first floor. Upper level features loft and upper deck with great view of lake. Open lanai with summer kitchen, caged pool/spa overlook private boat dock with hoist. Located in private gated community, yet easy access to shopping and interstate. Fresh paint and new carpet, roof and A/C recently replaced. 1 year home warranty. Offered at $695,000. MLS#T2308121. Call Terry Speer, (813) 391-7366.
COUNTRY LIVING!
2 bedroom, 2 bath block home on 1/3 of an acre oak treed lot, oversized garage with workshop and remote garage door openers. Close to shopping and schools. Offered at $139,900. MLS #T2310467. Call Jimmie Robinson, (813) 390-6441.
GREAT FAMILY HOME
Home has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths with a 4 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home on 7 acres of land. Property was recently brought into the Plant City city limits and rezoned to 6 homes per acre. Offered at $325,000. MLS #T2302000. Call Jimmie Robinson, (813) 390-6441.
WILDER’S POND An absolutely FANTASTIC property! Home is less than 2 years old and constructed by one of Tampa Bay’s Top Custom Builders. The home sits on nearly 3 acres of pristine fenced land, including your very own pond, packed with fish and visited often by many species of birds. There are two 2 car garages, wood & ceramic tile flooring, crown molding. The kitchen is so large that the owners have a good-sized table right in the middle for informal eating. There’s also a formal dining room just off the foyer. Offered at $515,435. MLS #T2304957. Call Ken Lawrence, (813) 716-0187.
COUNTRY HILLS
This Home built in 1998 offers 3 bedrooms/2 baths with a 2 car garage, fenced yard, screened enclosed patio, all appliances and over 1700 square feet of living area. Just $157,000. MLS #T2305416. Call Jean Bridgmon, (813) 478-3107.
WALDEN LAKE
Beautiful 3 bedroom 2 bath home freshly painted inside and out, with fireplace, tree covered lot, hurricane shutters, 2 car garage, and more. Offered at $182,395. MLS #T2306075. Call Jimmie Robinson, (813) 390-6441.
SLEEPY HOLLOW
Price reduced $70k! No HOA/minimal deed restrictions. 3,052 sq ft custom-built western red cedar & stone house in area of other lovely custom homes. 1500 sq ft barn, board fencing all around. Meticulous inside and out. Builder/Owner. Lots of unique features! Open living areas, very large bedrooms. Wind mitigation inspection reduced insurance by $600! Offered at $649,705. MLS #T2306811. Call Lynne Halleran at (813) 763-1881 or Jimmie Robinson at (813) 390-6441.
HIGHWAY HEIGHTS
This home was built in 1915 in Beautiful Plant City, steps away from the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds. The age ends there. When you walk in the door of this magnificent home, your thoughts will turn to the future. It’s that impressive. From the original wood floors that simply gleam up at you, to the exquisite finishing, to the top of the line kitchen appliances, to the layout of the home and the double lot. Offered at $274,985. MLS T2298290. Ken Lawrence-Realtor (813) 716-0187. www.kenselzplantcityrealty.com.
LOOKING FOR PRIVACY
Then this is it. This fenced one acre parcel offers plenty of tree shade and privacy. 2 story home with unique floor plan, fireplace and screened patio. Take a look today. Priced at $195000. MLS #T2309876. Call Jean Bridgmon, (813) 478-3107.
WILDER PARK
Beautiful 3 bed/2 bath home in Wilder Park. Convenient to I-4, HCC College Campus & Mike Sansone Sports Complex. Priced to sell. Owners relocating out of state. New paint inside & out. New carpet and appliances. If you want a clean home, this is the one! Offered at $175,750. MLS #T2291455. Call Jimmie Robinson, (813) 390-6441.
COWGIRL COUNTRY
Horse heaven! 8-stall barn w/ tack & feed rooms, electric & water. Fenced & cross-fenced, pond. 3922 sq ft house w/ 4 BR - 2 are master suites! Kitchen remodel just completed granite counters, wood cabinets. Pet & kid friendly w/ lots of tile. Fireplace. Pool, large screened patio. It’s yours for $749,848! Call Lynne Halleran at 813-763-1881 or Jimmie Robinson at 813-390-6441.
CITRUS LANDING OFFICE PARK
Attention Investors! HUGE PRICE REDUCTION! Here is an opportunity to purchase a Business Park in Plant City or an individual building at a greatly reduced price, then turn around and sell individual units with an excellent Return on Investment. The complex has been built in various sizes, with the interiors unfinished. Buyers can design their own space and the builder, a highly reputable contractor, will finish the facility for a very modest price. The owner will also seriously consider selling 1/2 a building at an incredible price (cheaper than rent). This complex consists of 9 buildings laid-out in a very user friendly fashion. There’s parking for 115 vehicles and the maintenance fee is very low. A 10th furnished building is also available. Offered at $2,420,000. MLS #T2282489. Call Ken Lawrence, (813) 716-0187.
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sports & fitness sports
Story by Joe Bow les / Photo s courtesy o f K e n da l l Daw s o n
send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Making Dreams Come True
plant City Raiders’ Kendall Dawson Sign with Alabama Plant City Raiders’ catcher Kendall Dawson has a dream. Well, actually she has two dreams. If either dream comes true, she’ll be ecstatic. If they don’t, she’ll still be happy. You see, Kendall would like win the College World Series or compete in the Olympics. Some may say that those are lofty dreams for this high school senior, but there are others who feel that Kendall has the skills to accomplish both. At the age of twelve, Kendall had to make a decision. She was told by her parents that she would have to choose between her two loves, rodeo barrel racing or softball. Kendall chose softball and though she still loves riding, she hasn’t ever regretted that decision. That decision has led her to receive a full athletic scholarship to the University of Alabama, one of the elite softball programs in America that has a shot every year at capturing the College Softball World Series.
Crimson Tide Recruit
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 98
Kendall started out playing Little League softball, but at age ten joined The Maniacs, a travel team made up of players mostly from central Florida. Later, The Maniacs became the Florida Gold and began competing in tournaments all over the country. So far, the biggest highlight of playing with the Florida Gold is the time they competed against the United States Junior Olympic Team. By the way, Kendall went three for four with two doubles. When Kendall became old enough to play for the Raiders, her summers were still dedicated to travel ball as college coaches around the country began to notice her skills. Her stock continued to rise this fall when Kendall was invited to participate in the Adidas Futures Softball Camp held in St George, Utah. Players invited to this experience are judged to be the top 100 players in America. Along the way, Kendall has collected her share of honors. Last year she was named to the Florida High School 6A All- State team, and so far this year she has been selected to the Tribune’s All-County team, as well as being named the Western Conference Player of the Year. This year, Kendall helped lead the Raiders to a 15-5 record, a second place finish in the district, and a semifinal appearance in the regional tournament. Her eye-popping offensive statistics for the past two seasons include; 60 hits, 21 doubles, three triples, three home runs, 50 runs-batted-in, a .508 batting average, and only six strikeouts in 36 games. Kendall is thankful that she has a family that has also been very supportive of her. Her father Ben, an assistant coach for the Florida Gold, and her mother, Diane, have made sacrifices to help Kendall in her quest to fulfill her dreams. “My parents have been awesome. They have
Signing with the University of Alabama
taken me everywhere and spent a lot of money so I could play all over the country.” Even when Kendall is not playing, most every weekend the Dawson family is at the ball park. You see, Kendall’s older sister, Mackenzie, is a sophomore pitcher for Eckerd College and her younger brother, Sawyer, plays for the Plant City Raiders 11-year-old AAU baseball team. Initially, Kendall’s only reason for going to college was so that she could continue playing softball. Now, however, she is looking beyond softball to a career as an athletic trainer. She will be studying kinesiology and health science at Alabama on her way to making her dreams come true.
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Kayce Hart Another year of Plant City softball has quickly come and gone, and although there is the promise of many more seasons to come, this closing year was the final one for many seniors on the team such as Kayce Hart. Kayce, who has been on the team for all of high school, is a dedicated, talented player and an outstanding candidate to be recognized as this month’s star Raider. Although she played volleyball during her freshman, sophomore, and junior years, softball has been Kayce’s niche since she started around the age of eight, and a few years later joined a travel team which she still plays with today. Kayce played center field this year for PCHS and carried a batting average of .451 throughout the season. Because she is one of the seniors on the team this year she can also be considered at least one of the team’s ‘honorary’ captains. Kayce has been the recipient of many awards, from receiving ‘Rookie of the Year’ as a freshman to ‘Most Improved’ as a sophomore, and honored for First All Team Western Conference during her sophomore and junior seasons. These four years have been full of memories with a close group of girls, which is what Kayce has enjoyed the most-the new, close friends she has made after four years playing for Plant City High School. After graduating in May, she will be attending Brevard College from which she received a full ride for none other than softball. Congratulations to Kayce Hart for four successful years and whatever the next ones hold! Kayce Hart with Knotts Team Sports Sponsors Jeannie and Andy Knotts
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 100
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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;¢ may 15 - june 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 101
sports & fitness sports
Story by Joe Bow les / P hotos court esy o f C ourtney B i nni o n a n d Y e s e n i a Pa l e st r i n i
The Antioch Redskins Youth Football organization has announced 2008 fall football and cheerleading sign-ups for the following dates: May 17 from 10 AM to 2 PM; June 26 from 6 PM to 8 PM; and June 28 from 10 AM to 2 PM. Football is for ages six-16 and cheerleading is for ages four-16. The first day of practice will be July 14 and the first games will be held on August 16. For more information call (813) 986-4677 or www.antiochredskins.net. Ron Fussell, resigned after four years as Durant High School head baseball coach to move to Texas to be nearer his mother and other family members including his son Jeremy who was recently awarded a baseball scholarship to play for Ranger College in Ranger, Texas, and his oldest son, Josh who plays football for the University of New Mexico Lobos. Fussell grew up in Texas but he and his immediate family has resided in the Plant City area for the past 20 years. Plant City High School has named Jason Strunk as the Raiders’ new head football coach. Strunk comes from Pennsylvania where he was a positions coach at Muhlenberg College, a Division III school in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
The Plant City Family YMCA will offer a summer basketball program for youth ages three -13. Registration begins May 17 and will conclude on June the 28. Opening day will be held on July 19. There is no cost for YMCA members but a $45 fee will be charged for non-members. There is an additional cost of $12 for Raiders Black 9U Team captures second place in the Slug-A-Rama’s Ice Division tee shirts that can be worn throughout the year. Games will be nine to eight before being topped in the champiplayed on Saturdays and practices will be held onship game by the Haines City Sharks 12-seven. on week nights. For more information please call (813) 757-6677. Plant City High School’s Raiders softball team’s season ended with a four to two loss to CountryTwo area youth baseball teams won silver medals side in the first round of the regional tournament at the recent statewide Slug-A-Rama Baseball after taking second place in the district. They Tournament held April 21-23 in Auburndale and ended the season with a record of 15-five. The Winter Haven. The Plant City Raiders Black Raiders baseball team more than doubled their 9-and-under AAU win total from 2007 compiling a record of 11-13. baseball team came in second place in the Ice Their final loss came in the second round of the district tournament. Division by defeating the Orlando Warriors The Plant City Panthers, a 16-and-under girls’ 15-5 and the Hitting travel basketball team came in second place Academy Cubs 12-11, in the sixth annual Lady Fire Shootout Clasbefore losing in the sic held April fourth through sixth in Lakeland title game to Team Florida. The Lady Fire Shootout Classic is an Avalanche. The Plant event sponsored by USSSA basketball. Three City Raiders Teal players made the All-Tournament team; Raven 9-and-under team Broadnax, Taylor Broadnax, and Eryka Wilcame in second place liams. Other team members are Jasmyne Black, in the Fire Division by Jalonda Lancaster, Konstance Milton, Ashley defeated the Ormond Nelson, Asia Nelson, and Bria Thomas. The Beach Golden Spikes team is coached by Latosha Lewis, Ben Henry eight to three and the and Arthur Jenkins. Ocala Yard Dawgz
Raiders Teal 9U Team captures second place in the Slug-A-Rama’s Fire Division
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 102
send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
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sports & fitness sherrynueesch
s ubmit ted by s herry nueesch
Motivational Minute Making Time For Exercise
There is a very motivational section on the Curves Community website called Motivational Minute. Curves highly encourages sharing the information on there with everyone. That is precisely what I want to do this month, as it is very very good. The first one deals with not having the time to workout. Here’s how to make time for you. Sorry but it is time for some tough love. As the saying goes, “You will find time to do the things you make time for”. It’s easy to get bogged down with so many responsibilities, all of them seemingly must-do’s, and it’s so easy to put yourself last; it seems to be built into our female DNA. This is truly backward thinking. Another great saying is appropriate: “Those who don’t find time to workout will need to make time for illness later”. Working out and keeping yourself healthy has to be on the top of your to-do list. You’re the first domino in the priority line. If you tumble, everything else is certain to go too. We reduce our chance of getting cancer by a whopping 60 percent by maintaining a proper weight, exercising and eating properly. You have to take the time to take care of yourself. Where are you going to live when this one body you have is gone? Do others look at you as a good example or a horrible warning? Here’s how to go for the good. If someone was attacking you, how well do you think you would defend yourself? Now, if someone was attacking your children how much better would you fight? You’d probably fight to your death in defense of them, wouldn’t you? You want what is best for your kids and you know the old rule: Kids learn by example. Are you setting a good example by taking good care of yourself: eating right, exercising regularly, and taking care of your health? What lessons are they learning by watching you? Set a good example of a healthy lifestyle and they’ll follow. Kids learn by watching what we do, not by listening to what we say. You want to get in shape, but when you think about how long it’s going to take it’s overwhelming. Here’s where to start. Start by starting. Yes, it’s going to take some time. You didn’t get out of shape overnight, so why do you think the reverse is a quick fix? As they say, the elevator to success is out of order. You will have to use the stairs, one step at a time. Instead of focusing on how much time it will take, and that you won’t be at your goal even several months down the road, imagine how you will feel when you do reach your goal. Stay focused on the end result. The future
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 104
is going to come no matter what we do. Would you rather be on the way to your goals, proud and motivated by how far you have come, or still standing on square one waiting to take that first step? Everyday there are dozens of choices you make that affect your health. Here’s how to say no to no-no’s. J.K. Rowling said, “It is our choices that show who we really are, far more than our abilities.” Regardless of who we are, we all have choices that affect us. This is a great power, a power to make things happen in our lives. If we wield the power wisely, good things can happen. If not, we must live with the consequences. What choices will you make today? Will they be choices that move you toward your goal or away from them? Surprisingly, the more good choices you make will give you the power and motivation to perpetuate the positive choices – in other words, it gets easier the more you do it. And don’t forget to praise yourself everyday for all the good choices you do make. It keeps you happy and happy people make better choices. As always, to your health, Sherry Nueesch.
The United Food Bank of Plant City Board, Staff and Volunteers would like to thank the Plant City mail carriers and community for their generous support in this year’s mail carrier food drive. Thanks to the generosity of our community over 20,000 pounds of food were donated and will be distributed to individuals and families in need.
For more information on how you can become a partner of the United Food Bank, please call (813) 764-0625.
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 105
FOCUS Magazine would like to congratulate all the 2008 Graduates
FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ may 15 - june 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 106
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 107
local history didyouknow
s ubmit ted by P lant City Photo A rc hi ves Sources: Pl ant City Photo A rc hi ves p hotog r a p h i c a n d o r a l h i sto ry f i l e s.
send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Pioneers of the Hopewell Community
Chronicled in New Publication The preservation of a community’s history and heritage takes on many forms. The first is our rich tradition of oral history – the passing along of our stories and heritage from family to family, and generation to generation. Then, there are the first person accounts of the times captured in diaries, journals, and autobiographies. Histories and biographies followed. Beginning in the mid-1800s came the visual preservation of our history through the eye of the camera, and this was followed by numerous combinations of oral history, the written word, illustrations and photographs. We are pleased with the results of an enormous effort on the part of a small committee that set out to capture the history of one of Plant City’s earliest communities – that of Hopewell. The Pioneers of Hopewell Historical Committee has produced a publication entitled, Pioneers of Hopewell Community, Hillsborough, Florida (2008). The dedicated committee – Descendants of Hopewell Pioneers – included Donna Hull Jones, Martha Sue Ellen Hawkins Skinner, Lynda Rogers Fuller, who served as chairperson, Ellouise Ackerman Wynn, and Norma Gayle Ackerman Ham. The book is dedicated to Helen Margaret West (1936-2005), the daughter of John Stanley West and Helen Frances Martin West, and the granddaughter of Harry Martin and Margaret Martin. Helen Margaret West was also the niece of
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 108
George Preacher and Isabel Martin Preacher. In addition to all her other activities, Helen Margaret West was a devoted local historian, past president of Old Hopewell Church Cemetery, Inc., and an ardent genealogical and historical researcher. The publication includes family records, church records, historic photos, and data from government records from years long past. Here is a sample of the contents. Part One contains information on community landmarks, and early churches and schools. Part Two focuses on community and church gatherings, activities, and events. In Part Three the publication features early historic houses, and Part Four lists the families interred at the Hopewell Old Cemetery. Additionally, the publication includes numerous historic photographs and documents dating back to the turn of the century. The photos included with this article include one of the original John Robert McDonald house, constructed about 1870, and one of John Robert McDonald and Sarah Gibson McDonald in their carriage, circa 1900. The communities spread throughout Central Florida in the mid-1800s had several factors for their establishment. First was the fact that the US Government wanted help in its war against the Indians and, through the Florida Armed Occupation Act of 1842, offered 160 acres of land to armed men who would settle the land and help defend it. Second was the natural urge of men to seek more and better farmland and opportunities. Communities developed along transportation routes, roads and rivers, for transport and for
safety. Homesteads would follow roads that led from one military fort to another, or straddle navigable waterways. There are many family stories and fascinating historical photographs in this publication. You won’t want to miss them. For more information call Lynda Rogers Fuller at (813) 986.4844, or call the Photo Archives office at (813) 754.1578. Sources: Pioneers of Hopewell Community, Hillsborough County, Florida, by Pioneers of Hopewell Historical Committee, 2008; Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City; Its Origins and History; Plant City Photo Archives and Plant City Photo Archives Oral History Project 2008.
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Food s Fun s Prizes s Giveaways FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 109
extra alruechel
submitt ed by al ruec hel
Is Anyone Standing Up For Education? You Can Take A Stand
I have a bunch of questions I want answered. They are all about how education is funded in this state and how education always seems to get the short end of the straw even though all politicians promise education will be a top priority when they are elected. Lawton Chiles (D) promised it. Bob Graham (D) promised it. Jeb Bush (R) promised it. Charlie Crist (R) promised it. Those promises faded into history as Florida schools continue to float near the bottom in a sea of educational mediocrity. Sure there has been some progress but not the monumental leaps our children will need to compete in the coming years. Can you get a decent education in Florida given our poor graduation rates and low per pupil funding rate? The answer is yes. My wife and I have raised four very successful, happy, well-educated compassionate children in the public school system. They thrived on challenging programs like the International Baccalaureate program, the Gifted Program, the Medical Magnet program. We set high expectations and gave them tons of support, direction, correction and love. So why don’t all students do as well as our kids? That’s the gorilla in the room question. If you have the answer you could spare school districts lawsuits that claim kids don’t achieve the same because school districts are purposely ignoring their needs based on race, income or sexual orientation.
Average teachers produce average students.
Why can’t you get politicians to look beyond the next election cycle to the future, which demands we change the way we educate our kids if we want to compete? The future? Hey, we’ve got to get through the next year with drastic cuts and more unfunded mandates that have us bailing water with a coffee cup in a ship with a whole as big as Texas in it’s hull. Why do we jump like rabbits when taxpayers demand a reduction in their property taxes yet stonewall when just as many parents are screaming for better schools? Some where along the line we’ve forgotten that the quality of businesses and services of tomorrow is dependent on the education we give the workforce now. Or would you like to try fixing your own computer, or air conditioner, or automobile by yourself. You don’t care that the guy sending you your bills can’t add, or write, or express himself, or understand that if you spend more money than you take in you go broke? Why do we treat teachers with less respect and pay them less than many garbage collectors? I know so many fantastic teachers working for peanuts who don’t complain, who spend their own money on basic supplies, who work long, hard hours in the classroom and then again at home. Like it or not, teachers are our future. Average teachers produce average students. Excellent teachers produce innovative, excited, energized scholars. Why do we insist on changing the way schools are funded in Florida to another system that is dependant on tourists or outsiders to fill our treasury? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to create a system that pays for our schools on a consistent, dependable basis? And finally, why aren’t you screaming bloody murder? Why do you put up with lip service? Why aren’t you championing for your local school? Why aren’t you holding your lawmakers feet to the fire? Why don’t you want the best for your kids? Are you willing to accept mediocrity? Why aren’t you standing up for education in Florida?
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 110
s n o i t a l u t a r g n o C fl ino
e D x e l Aon a great year!
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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ may 15 - june 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 111
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*IM 2EDMAN 0ARKWAY s "EHIND 4WISTEE 4REAT FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 113
13 year old Shih Tzu Owners: Edna and Mark Boothe I got my name because I reminded them of a shiny new penny. Favorite treats: Milk Bones, ice cream and vegetables (raw or cooked) When I hear loud noises, like thunder I run and hide. I am special because I am loving, sweet, and very spoiled. My family loves me so much that no amount of money could buy me, I am a member of the family. I am so spoiled that I even get to sleep in bed with my owners.
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extra thisibelieve
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By Ro n n i e c a r l ou g h send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Coffee 101 is hosting a monthly community event called This I Believe. Modeled after the series on NPR reviving an Edward R. Murrow radio program from the 1950’s, This I Believe is a national media guide project engaging citizens in writing, sharing and discussing the core values and beliefs that guide their daily lives. Each month Focus will choose a This I Believe Essay to highlight and publish. Come join the group of This I Believe right here in Plant City every first Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. held at Coffee 101. For more information call (813) 659-0101.
God’s Divine Purpose for Mankind Bro. Ronnie Carlough Christian Evangelist Outreach Leader- Westside Baptist Church This I Believe... God has created man for His divine purpose. He has a unique plan for us in this life. A life filled with ups-and-downs, sufferings and triumphs, mistakes and opportunities for growth. Each experience, every single moment of living has been orchestrated for us. I believe we are to be a constant witness to everyone we come into contact with and that one of the most powerful ways to witness to others is by the sharing of testimonies. The acknowledgment of life experiences and the willingness to share with others is powerful. I believe that a testimony opens the door for others to know me. It also is a way for me to encourage others through their trials and situations. Nothing in life happens by coincidence or chance and we are in fact blessed with ‘divine appointments’. We need to recognize and embrace these occasions to build one another up. When given the moment, make an effort to be the one person that will listen and take the time to have an open mind and a heart of compassion. We can then come to the understanding that the human experience is not as diverse as it seems. I believe that a life lesson learned increases hope and faith. Once I have endured adversity or trials, I then, have the responsibility to share my hope and faith with others. I believe that helping others through my own testimony is a divine task that God has set out before me. Everyday is a new day for me to grow, plant a seed in someone else and nurture new growth through His grace that strengthens me.
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extra askwhowhat
Sto ry a n d P hoto s by W e ndy Brown send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Ask Who What Question Submitted by
Helen Price, Fashion Coordinator for Weekenders Fashions and member of the Plant City Women’s Club “Is there an increase of robberies in Plant City public places? What steps can we as citizens do to be safer and to protect ourselves?”
Response from
Chief Bill McDaniel, Plant City Chief of Police “Unfortunately there has been an increase in robberies in our community. You really need to be careful during your activities and always aware of your surroundings. Everyone basically needs to use good common sense. Here are some basic crime prevention techniques. Park close to the building if possible. Park under a light or in a lighted parking lot. If you don’t feel safe, do not get out of your car. If you don’t feel safe, ask store personnel to assist you. Do not leave any valuables in your car, especially in plain view. This could be money, CD’s, a camera, or even a computer bag. Be aware and note the people around you. What are they doing? What do they look like? Thieves would rather strike someone not paying attention. When out shopping, go with a partner. You’re always safer in numbers. A thief will strike someone unaware of his surroundings. The elderly, handicapped, some dressing flashy, and someone alone are more susceptible. Don’t make yourself a target to crime. Definitely do not display wads of money or show off what’s in your wallet. If you have any other questions or concerns, the police department is always ready and willing to help. We are here to serve you.”
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 116
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sto ry a n d p hoto s by as hl ey g ran t send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Jackson Elementary School Defining Perseverance Each month, Focus Magazine is profiling several students from a Plant City area school and asking them for their personal definitions of that month’s character word. This month we stopped by Jackson Elementary School, and with the help of their counselor, Kelly Minnear, we interviewed five students for their views on May’s word: Perseverance. “Never give up because you know you’re gonna get through it and aim higher.” Samantha Fedeles
Left to Right: Samantha Fedeles, Amanda Gunter, Gustavo Delagarza, Justin Turner and Kierstan Thomas
T C R G R E E N W A S T E R E C O V E R Y, I N C I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H C S R A G R I C U LT U R A L R E C O V E R Y, I N C . F U L LY I N S U R E D - L I A B I L I T Y & W O R K E R S C O M P
“It means to never quit and to keep trying. A couple of weeks ago when I was in the battle of the books I had to persevere because we started losing…we knew we were gonna win and we did.” Justin Turner “Perseverance means to never give up, to never stop trying. I had to use perseverance to get straight A’s because my goal is to get them all year.” Kierstan Thomas
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“When you keep on trying and never stop and when you finally get it. I kept trying to throw a baseball through two trees and then I finally made it.” Gustavo Delagarza “Perseverance means to never stop, keep on going and to look on the bright side of things and just get through it. ” Amanda Gunter
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dining & entertainment diningprofile
Story and Photo s by W endy S. B row n
send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Add Some Culture to Your Palate Dine at Turquoise Mediterranean Grill Reminiscent of a fine eating establishment, Turquoise Mediterranean Grill located at the
Days Inn on Frontage Road offers delicious, healthy meals using only the freshest ingredients. Unlike some restaurants, Turquoise prepares all menu items just for you, and is always willing to accommodate the customer. Owners Erkan Nar, Beina Nar, and Yvette Rouse opened Turquoise two months ago. Erkan and Beina previously operated SubClub for four years in downtown Plant City. While Beina made lots of friends and enjoyed the
Belly dancer Naomi Ardjomand-Kermani dazzles the audience on Saturday evenings.
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 122
SubClub atmosphere, she dreamed of a real kitchen. Yvette parents were customers and friends of Beina. After retiring from Progressive Insurance as an information technology manager in December 2007, Yvette was open to future possibilities. It just happened that Yvette’s parents, Beina, and Yvette were out and about one day, and talking about the future when it became evident that Beina and Yvette’s dreams meshed. After one day of discussion, Erkan, Beina, and Italian sandwich, Caesar salad, and Chicken shish kebab (boneYvette became partners and took over less cubes of chicken marinated with spices and olive oil, served over pita with risotto rice with orzo past and fresh veggies. the old Days Inn restaurant. Ever open to new challenges, the new partners had a lot of fun decorating, creating specialties include the Turquoise Shrimp Platter a menu, and changing a lounge atmosphere of shrimp cooked with fresh tomato, peppers, and snack kitchen to a full fledged charming onions, and topped with mozzarella cheese for restaurant complete with a designer kitchen. $14.95 or sea bass grilled whole for $17.95. Try Erkan and Beina are the executive chefs while the homemade Baklava, baked rice pudding, Yvette manages the front area and does the flan, and a Turkish ice cream sandwich for bookkeeping. dessert. Challenges are always inevitable with a new business. At the Days Inn location, Turquoise is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner six days a week. Breakfast fare is traditional with eggs, waffles, pancakes, omelets, and French toast. Try the egg special of two eggs with a side of hash browns or grits with choice of meats and toast or three pancakes for only $5.75 or western omelet with toast and hash browns or grits for $5.50. For lunch there are soups, salads, cold or hot sandwiches, and wraps all freshly prepared. Turkey, steak and cheese, tuna, chicken salad, club sandwich, and a Panini Italian will dazzle your taste buds. For lunch or dinner try the Mediterranean dishes. Appetizer favorites include feta rolls: lightly fried pastry leaves with feta cheese and parsley, shrimp crochette, aegean bruschetta, and grilled eggplant. For a unique entrée try the Doner kebab of marinated lamb served with Turkish rice and grilled veggies. The Turquoise chicken kofte is ground chicken breasts blended with fresh herbs lightly pan-fried. Seafood
Under the watchful eyes of Yvette, you’ll receive exquisette impeccable service and hospitality. You’ll be treated like a family of royal sultans. Sam Sidoti patronizec the downtown SubClub, but followed Beina to Turquoise “where the food is great and I hope people come.” Yvette “enjoys interacting with the people” while Beina wants you to try Turquoise where “you’ll eat healthy and feel good about what you ate.” Turquoise Mediterranean Grill 301 South Frontage Road, Plant City (813) 659-8400 www.Turquoise MedGrill.com Kids menu Credit cards Catering and private parties welcome Breakfast $2.50-$5.75; Lunch $4.95-$9.95 Appetizers $3.95-$7.95 Dinner $14.95-$17.95
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 123
dining & entertainment entertainmentstory
Story by Daniel Sperry / Photos Court esy o f T he R ed Ro s e I nn an d S u it e s
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P.J. Leary Brings Big Band To Life Las Vegas Sounds Rock The Red Rose Dining Room
P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds perform regularly to a full house at the Red Rose Inn and Suites in Plant City
P. J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds has a long history with the Red Rose Inn and Suites in Plant City, FL. Leary has been performing there for years and he and his band have developed close ties to Plant City. The band’s name may not be familiar to many people, but Leary once had a number one hit as a member of Nu Tornados which earned him appearances on Ed Sullivan and Dick Clark. How does a boy from Norview High School work his way into night club acts from Miami Beach, Las Vegas, Atlantic City and Philadelphia, sell almost a million records, and develop friendships with show business celebrities which included Nick Adams, Natalie Wood, Robert Conrad, Connie Stevens, Jackie Gleason and many others? Leary gives the whole story fact for fact. The Las Vegas Sounds are a treat to see in action. Leary’s piano and vocal talents are supported by a first class cast: The new trumpet player Dave Webber has been on stage with the Four Tops, Temptations, Drifters, Platters FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 124
Leary brings an intense energy and boyish enthusiasm to his performances which is contagious and lifts the energy in his audience
and many others; Kenny Tiedeman, sax, flute, arranger; Bobby Grauso, drums; and Moe Lowe on bass. P.J. is featured on vocals and piano but shares the spotlight with the entire band through individual solos. Every up tempo selection is filled with precision accents and the harmony of a big band. The arrangements by Kenny Tiedeman are fantastic. Let the Good Times Roll does just that as an intro selection filled with the kicks and ensemble accents of a tight group. With Leary’s strong vocal lead and solid piano and the groups’ dynamic solos, the party fires up. Just a Gigolo and Oh Marie are superb renditions of the Louis Prima - Keeley Smith era and both are crowd pleasers. There is a great sax solo by Kenny Tiedeman on Danny Boy followed with a powerful vocal ending by P.J. The band offers solid renditions of Satin Doll and Take the A Train and several other selections that will interest the music enthusiast. All of these selections feature hard driving innovative jazz improvised solos by sax and trumpet. As with all fine artists, there is another side to P.J.
Leary. When it comes to specialty numbers, his performance of American Trilogy could only be matched by the mellow full tone of Elvis himself, many say. P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds have brought the Prima legend back into the modern world with a today sound. The band plays what the people come to hear. The musicians are professionals and know how to entertain an audience at the Red Rose Inn and Suites Leary brings the full power of his band’s magic to life every time he hits the stage. In April the band was featured and played to a full house. The Red Rose Dining Room was packed to capacity as locals from across town came to hear an old favorite perform. “I just love the Las Vegas Sounds,” said Tracy Molligan. “Whenever I know they are playing here, I try to come.” The audience enjoyed a delicious dinner before and during the show, and almost everyone was fully immersed in the band’s performance as soon as they began. It was certainly a night to remember.
6/15/2007
6/15/2007
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 125
dining & entertainment entertainmentstory
Story by Wendy S. B row n / Photo s by W e n dy S. B row n a n d S h a n n o n Mac k
send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com
Plant City Gold Hillbillies Huge Hit
Opening night jitters, fluttering butterflies in actor’s stomachs, and pulsing anticipation throughout the audience paved the way to a fabulous first night of “The Beverly Hill Billies” showcased by our local theater group Plant City Entertainment. If you missed the four performances, you passed up an impressive delight of hilarity and genuine acting ability so full of laughs and reminiscent of a bygone era, you’ll yearn for the next performance of the musical Brigadoon July18,
the Ozark back woods cabin to the opulent mansion of Beverly Hills. Of course the cast of locals and crew spent five weeks readying for this production, and did and outstanding professional job. During scene changes, The Bluegrass Bandits entertained the audience with theme music and pickin’ songs. Granny steals the show! If you attended the first weekend performance you might be surprised to know that Rev. Tom Thoeni played
Kay Secord or Mrs. Drysdale shows off her jewels and fur.
Micah Keckm Nash Breuggeman, Judy Barta, Tom Thoeni, and Reggie Kirkland as the Beverly Hill Billies discuss what to do with twenty-five million dollars.
19, 20, 25, and 26. With a cast of twenty performing at Cornerstone church where the setup is theater style and a perfect performance place, the audience was overjoyed and craved more! If you remember the Beverly Hillbillies television show from 1962-1971 starring Buddy Ebson as Jed Clampett, you’ll be pleased with this “bubbling crude, oil that is, Black Gold, Texas tea” rendition. Director Shannon Mack did an exceptional job producing the hilarious Beverly Hill Billies. Patrick Hetrick outdid himself with versatile sets between FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 126
a convincing stooped Granny, while nibbling a corncob pipe. He brought so many laughs the audience was in stiches. With gray wig, glasses perched on nose, Thoeni’s comedic ability and adlibs kept the cast holding back laughter. Asked about the part, Rev Thoeni declared, “this was an homage to my mother, and I used some of her sayings.” When asked about the play, Bob Barta stated, “I think it was fantastic, Granny is such a character.” Groovy Monahan played by Kerri Gafford wearing a short flowery seventy’s mini skirt and white go go boots played a “sexy siren
who sings to her own tune” was excited at joining the cast for her first show. When asked how he got into the Jethro part, Micah Keck said, “It reminded me of my family from Tennessee.” Judy Barta loves playing comedy and enjoyed the Southern lady part of cousin Pearl. After Jed received a $25 million dollar check, Pearl states, “You can afford to live in the lap of luxury. You can move from this pigpen to a palace. Why saints alive Cousin Jed, you’re a millionaire.” Tom Guerre was great as banker Mr. Drysdale, full of dry wit and the “henpecked husband who loves his wife almost as much as he loves the money in the bank.” Kay Secord or Mrs. Drysdale loved being the drama queen “used real life experiences of being near high brow people to help be the bossy, rich wife.” Wearing a feather negligee, fur, and carrying a blue sequined ice pack for her frequent migraines, Kay Secord portrayed the uppity role well. Jennifer Morgan portrayed conniving Emaline Fetty, one of four women trying to woe Jethro and Jed to the altar, as naive country girl and then bribing seductress quite well. Plant City Entertainment is definitely a local gem bringing show business to Plant City.
dining & entertainment localband
Story and Photo s by Dani el Sp erry
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Red Seven
On Their Way
For a small town, Plant City has a lot of musical talent. Red Seven band member Josh Norman has lived here his whole life and has taken his love for music to a new level with performances throughout Lakeland, Plant City and Tampa. Red Seven formed under a different name more than five years ago, but a number of band members changed and they regrouped under their new moniker last year and have been enjoying a rise in popularity. Norman plays lead guitar and writes much of the music, while Darren Stephens is the lead singer and writes most of the lyrics. It is a group effort, though, with Daniel Smith on drums and Josh Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Conner playing bass. All four member work together to create their own unique sound which has a lot of blues and rock influence in it. They classify themselves as hard rock and they definitely have an edginess to their style that is original in the area. Originality is important to the band, as they hope to make it big someday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We perform mostly our own music,â&#x20AC;? says Norman. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll play maybe one song by someone else and the rest of our set is all our own stuff.â&#x20AC;? Red Seven has one goal and it is to one day hear themselves on the radio. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I believe in our music,â&#x20AC;? Norman says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to be spread.â&#x20AC;? There are obstacles to overcome and the band still needs to generate enough income to finish producing their first cd, but Red Seven has the drive and energy to make it and if the last year is any indication, they are well on their way. For information, contact Red Seven at 813-650-1518.
Darren Stephens is the lead singer and primary lyricist for Red Seven.
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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ may 15 - june 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 127
Wisdom Center SMOKEHOUSE
624 S. Evers Street Plant City, FL 33566 • (813) 754-4561 Hours of Operation: Mon - Wed 10:30 - 6pm • Thur 10:30 - 8pm Fri 10:30 - 10pm • Closed Sun
Lunch Specials $6.50
Visit our web site: www.feltonsmarket.com
MEATS
PRODUCE
WIDE SELECTION OF HAMS
SPECIALIZING IN SPECIAL CUTS OF MEAT
Low cholesterol items: Smoked Turkey Wings Smoked Turkey Necks Fresh Turkey Tails & Gizzards Smoked Turkey Tails Fresh Goat Fresh Mullet/Catfish/Perch Fresh Dressed, Grade A, Premium, Ice-Packed Poultry
Mother Reaves
Leg Quarters 40-lb. box Fresh IBP Small and Med. Spare Ribs Fresh IBP Lite Spare Ribs “Great for Barbecuing” Fajitas by the package or the box
No Order Too Big Or Too Small Largest Spice Selection In Town One Stop Shopping for all your large parties, family reunions and church events
SPECIAL SERVICES AVAILABLE INCLUDE: Western Union, Money Orders and Wiring Sevices Plantains, Green Bananas (by the box or lb.) Fresh Local Produce Daily Fresh Greens Available Daily
GROCERY
Visit
Paradise Fruit in 5-lb. box (available All Year Round)
WIDE SELECTION OF:
Miracles at
Call
Bring ad for Free Pot of Tea
#10 Can And Gallon Size Items Martin’s Potato Bread Entenmann’s Bakery products 'OYA s ,ISY s ,A #OSTENA s 3AN -ARCO S AND ,A $ONA 4ORTILLAS
813.991.1212 for reservations
Open Monday – Saturday 11am to 5pm and Sundays 11am to 4pm
Specializing in
Baby and Bridal Showers, Birthday and Anniversary Parties, Special Events, Book Signings and Small Group Meetings.
Available after 5pm for parties & events by arrangement. Don’t forget we can supply your office, business or group meetings with our scrumptious take-out menu
Special Mother’s Day Menu Located at 10335 Cross Creek Blvd., Ste H (at the rear of the Cory Lakes Professional Center)
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 128
Walker Plaza, 617 N Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 ATM Available at Customer Service TECO Payments Accepted
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Event Calendar May 15-May 23, tuesday-Friday The Planteen Recreation Center and the MLK Recreation Center will be registering children for the Summer Program 2008 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information, call Deborah at (813) 659-4200 ext. 4343 May 15-17, Thursday-Saturday 2008 NJCAA DIV. I FAST PITCH SOFTBALL CHAMPionship will be held at Plant City Stadium & Randy L. Larson Four-Plex on the grounds of the International Softball Federation located at 1900 S. Park Rd. The cost is $10 for adults 12-64 for a single day and $20 for a three-day pass. Children under 12 and seniors 65 and over are $7 for a single day and $15 for a three-day pass. For more information, call NJCAA Representative Norma Carr at (813) 864-0100 or visit http://www. internationalsoftball.com
visit www.ahouseformykids. com.
May 16-17, Friday- Saturday “Git r Dun” Benefit Concert and National Yard Sale will be held at 7818 Lithia Pinecrest Road to benefit the A House for My Kids Foundation. 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the foundation and many inspirational country music artists will be there. For more information please
May 17, Saturday The Strawberry Classic Car Show will be held at Historic Downtown from 4-9 p.m. For more information call the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at (813) 754-3707 or (800) 760-2315.
May 16, Friday Cork Elementary Family Fun Night will be held from 4-8 p.m. at 3501 North Cork Road. Food, music, games and a vendor marketplace will be featured. For more information or to become a sponsor, call Candice Tripi at (813) 757-9353. May 17-18, Saturday- Sunday The First Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival will be held at Keel and Curley Winery and Keel Farms. This will be an event for the whole family! Free Admission! Tickets can be purchased to play the games at the booths, but everyone will win a prize! Keel and Curley Winery is located at 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road.For more information, visit www.keelandcurleywinery.com.
All boys who will be entering ninth or tenth grade at Plant
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 130
City High School this Fall and are interested in participating in a Junior Varsity Summer League are invited to try out at 10 a.m. at the PCHS Baseball Field. For more information, call Jeff Jacobsen at (813) 754-9549. The Seventh Annual Margarita Ball will be held at 7 p.m. at 3200 Polo Place. Informal Dining, Casual, Duck Pool, Jimmy Buffet Style Band, Live Auction and Valet Parking. Cost is $100 a person. For more information, call (813) 754-3707. Zumba is held at the Winter Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. May 19, Monday Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. Belly Dance classes are held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 5:45 -7:15 p.m. Cost is $35 for 8 week session or $6 a class. For more information, call Mary Jane Aguilar (863) 682-6009.
May 15th - June 15th May 21, Wednesday Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. The Corner Store presents Spring Herb Thyme with Willow. Class begins at 2 p.m. and ends at 4 p.m. For more information, call (813) 754.0900. May 22-24, Thursday-Saturday Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will perform for Single’s Night Out with special guest Ralph Allocco. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. May 23, Friday The Corner Store presents Spring Salads & Dressings by Chef Debby DeGraaff. Class begins at 7 p.m. For more information, call (813) 754.0900. May 24, Saturday Zumba is held at the Winter Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256
Event Calendar or Patty at (813) 516-4731. Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7:00 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. May 26, Monday Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. Belly Dance classes are held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 5:45 -7:15 p.m. Cost is $35 for 8 week session or $6 a class. For more information, call Mary Jane Aguilar (863) 682-6009. May 28, Wednesday Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. May 29-31, Thursday-Saturday Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will perform for Single’s Night Out with special guest Ralph Allocco. For
more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. May 29, Thursday The Plant City High School Commencement will be held at the State Fair Grounds Expo Hall at 4 p.m. May 30, Friday The Durant High School Commencement will be held at the State Fair Grounds Expo Hall at 8 p.m. The Corner Store presents movie night. At 7 p.m. the store will play the film “The Future of Food.” For more information, call (813) 754.0900. May 31, Saturday Zumba is held at the Winter Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7:00 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. June 1, Sunday Campus Choir’s Power
May 15th - June 15th
Unlimited will be at the Plant City Church of God on Sunday, June 1, beginning at 10:30 a.m. This world-traveling group from Lee University in Cleveland Tennessee consists of eight vocalists and six instrumentalists, and they not only lead the congregation in praises to the most high God, they worship the Lord with heart, soul, mind and strength! They have sung with individuals such as Ron Kenoly, Alvin Slaughter and Donnie McClurkin, and travel during the summer singing in churches, youth camps and camp meetings. There is no admission cost for the June 1 event. For more information on Power Unlimited or Plant City Church of God, call (813) 752-4591 or visit www. plantcitychurchofgod.com or www.campuschoir.cc. June 2, Monday Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. Belly Dance classes are held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 5:45 -7:15 p.m. Cost is $35 for 8 week session or $6 a class. For more information, call Mary Jane
Aguilar (863) 682-6009. June 4, Wednesday Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. June 5-7, Thursday-Saturday Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will perform for Single’s Night Out with special guest Ralph Allocco. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. Bluegrass Jam Session is held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City. For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101.com. June 6, Friday Teen Night will be held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 7-11 p.m. Cost is $7.00. For more information call, Chris Washburn at 659-4200 ext 4340
continued on page 132
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 131
Event Calendar June 7. Saturday The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will host Bike Fest from 5 - 9 p.m. For more information, visit www. plantcity.org. Zumba is held at the Winter Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7:00 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For
more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. June 8-12, Sunday- Thursday Shiloh Baptist Church will be holding Vacation Bible School. The theme is Lifeway’s Outrigger Island. Living God’s Unshakeable Truth for ages three through fifth grade. To register online visit www.shilohbaptistpc. org. Shiloh Baptist Church is located at 905 W Terrace Drive. For more information call, (813) 752.8345.
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 132
May 15th - June 15th
June 9, Monday Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731.
June 11, Wednesday Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731.
Belly Dance classes are held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 5:45 -7:15 p.m. Cost is $35 for 8 week session or $6 a class. For more information, call Mary Jane Aguilar (863) 682-6009.
June 12-14, Thursday-Saturday Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will perform for Single’s Night Out with special guest Ralph Allocco. For more information, call (813)
Event Calendar 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. Bluegrass Jam Session is held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City. For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101.com. June 14, Saturday Fancypet Petstore will be having Customer Appreciation from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Food, fun, prizes and giveaways will be featured at 1507 S. Alexander St.
Ste 101. For more information, visit www.FancypetPetstore.com or call (813) 719.1129. Zumba is held at the Winter Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731. Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7:00 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.
May 15th - June 15th
Recurring Events Tuesdays Heart Health Screenings and Blood Pressure Checks are held from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the South Florida Baptist Hospital Community Resource Center (main hospital lobby). No appointments are necessary and this event is free. For more information, call (813) 754-4444. Tuesdays & Thursdays Delia’s Aerobics Turbo blast is held at the Planteen Recre-
ation Center from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Cost is $5. wednesdays & Thursdays Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7:00 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. Thursdays Bluegrass Jam Session is held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City. For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101.com.
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 133
GETTING MARRIED? WON AN AWARD? DELIVERED? GOT A PROMOTION? Call 813-707-8783 Ext 24 To Share Your Good News MAGAZINE
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calvi n r . & jac k i e Mat h e w s
It’s a Day for Papa
FOCUS Magazine • may 15 - june 15, 2008 • Page 135
Lic# CB-C059203
Many local references
Jimmy & Annie Carapezza
When Quality & Honesty Count
REMODEL DIVISION B E F O R E
A F T E R Family Owned & Operated
“One Call Does It All”
813-707-1221
Building Lic CBC059203 • Roofing Lic CCC057917 • Swimming Pool Lic CPC057274
Jimmy & Annie Carapezza
When Quality & Honesty Count BRAND NEW OFFICE, SAME GREAT SERVICE! 1 8 0 5 J A M E S L . R E D M A N P K W Y, S U I T E 1 0 2 , P L A N T C I T Y 3 3 5 6 3
NEW HOMES | ROOM ADDITIONS | RENOVATIONS KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING ROOFING | SWIMMING POOLS OUTDOOR KITCHENS
Family Owned & Operated
“One Call Does It All”
813-707-1221