Focus Magazine 08-10 October 2009 by Floyd Publications

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PLANT CITY EDITION

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Get your chicken wing fix

A haunting in Plant City Do ghosts lurk in the quaint town?

ED VERNER Plant City’s Renaissance Man

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(813) 752-4181 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

TABLe of contents volume 8 issue 10 — october 2009

14 59 68 110 onthe COVER ed verner

photo by mike floyd

correction

In last month’s issue of FOCUS, it read “Police Chief Mike Floyd, Sr.” He is not the chief, he is a captain.

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Publisher Mike Floyd Editor in chief Aaron Oberlin Office Manager Dede Floyd

local

Credit manager Elizabeth Edwards

As mainstream society evolves, it seems marriage is one of those things that have come under fire. Divorce rates continue to rise, and America’s youth ages in a society where it is becoming more acceptable. In the past month, some churches around the are have stepped up to strengthen the sanctity of marriage. You can find those stories here.

Feature

Production Coordinator Susan Riff

FOCUSTV Kara Manelli

Every Halloween, people search for stories to raise the hair on the back of your necks. FOCUS is no different, and the staff hit the streets looking for some local, terrorizing tales. You’ll be surprised with what we dug up.

business focus

Spending money within the local market is a solid way to keep the community from succumbing to a down economy. This month, FOCUS profiled a couple of local businesses in a special, paid-advertising section.

dining profile

Now one of the nation’s fastest growing restaurant chains, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s has reached far north and across the Midwest. Did you know that the second one ever built was right here in Plant City? Find out more about the Plant City staple and its infamous chicken wings.

81 96 100 102 114 116

Sales Sophia Hyde Tammy Simpson Sheryl Vitelli Stacy Lindo Manny Lindo Jason Ulmer Genevieve Ulmer Dan Conrod Ronnie Monk

Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena

home guide athlete of the month seniors of the month al ruechel event calendar crossword

Editorial Assistant Kevin Tall Distribution Doug McGee Belva DeVane Photographers Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Ruchelle Owens Tracy Cox Carolyn Miller Brian West Joe Bowles Krystel Knowles Laura Estes contributors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Sherrie Mueller Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Natalie Sweet Editorial Interns Tanya Albert Michelle Stark Phil Neary Currie Dickerson

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

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at editorial@floydpublications.com.

spotlight

He’s a man whose talents span a wide spectrum. He loves to fly, enjoys playing chess and dabbles in things to exercise his brain. He is, in a sense, Plant City’s version of Howard Hughes. He is Ed Verner. He is Plant City’s Renaissance Man.

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

refresh your idea of community news

myFOCUSTV.com

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

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You can’t hit a home run if you don’t swing the bat. As obvious as that sounds, it is a sentence that motivates me to do things when I think there is a chance at failure. Sure I could take a bunch of pitches and hope I draw a walk, but then I still have to make my way around the bases to score. That seems like a lot more work, a lot more obstacles and a substantially longer amount of time than necessary. One thing I have found is that the more things involved and the longer it takes, the higher the chance of something going wrong. The notion of swinging for the fences reminds me of this guy I know who thinks up new business ideas all the time. Some are gimmicks, some are business models and others are new products. He only acts on some of them, but he is a successful entrepreneur. What separates him from some visionaries is that he isn’t afraid to go for it. Focusing your energy on a new business can be a scary thing. What’s more intimidating is actually putting a new business plan into action. What if it doesn’t make any money? What if another business beats mine? But putting your time and energy into a business venture is the American way. Bill Gates didn’t make a fortune by thinking up Microsoft. Sure he possessed the insight, but it was the action of building and selling a product that launched him to billionaire status – the American way. Thomas Edison didn’t make millions or earn credit for more than 1,000 patents by envisioning inventions. He lived by the American way. In this month’s issue of FOCUS, we met up with local businessman Ed Verner. His hand controls several businesses, and he spoke about them in a Spotlight interview. He also talked about his vision of historic downtown Plant City and how he came about it. After the interview with Verner, a couple of things were apparent: Not only is he a man with foresight, but more importantly he is also a businessman who is not afraid to lift the baseball bat off his shoulders. Many of you reading this right now probably have thought of some great ideas. Just remember this: Anyone can have vision, but when you see the ball coming over the plate, don’t be afraid to swing.

Aaron Oberlin Editor In Chief

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TalkOF THE Town Berry Bash

With the 75th Florida Strawberry Festival growing close, the theme has been decided as “Come Celebrate With Us!” Here is one the banners you’ll see at this year’s festival. It shows a strawberry dressed in a tux with a diamond, the gem of a 75th anniversary, behind him. The festival will take place March 4-14, 2010.

Too good for drugs Plant City High School students, along with family and friends, participated in the annual Too Good for Drugs walk and Kidfest on Oct. 3. The event, which was held at the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa, included a banner contest, a one-mile walk and, of course, drug-free activities for the entire family. Representing Plant City were Alex Harrison, Spencer and Mary Heysek, Jake and Brigette Cole, Isis and Naomi Ash, Christopher Lynch, Hali Talkington, Terica Ward, Camille Young, Regan Knotts, Allie Goodrich, Raiannah Zazulia, Ashlyn Robinson, Travis Vollick, Xephye Caronel, Rachel Rodriguez, Malcolm Rivera, Xynthia Rodriguez, Danielle Odden, Rob Evans, Julie Holbrook and Sherrie Mueller.

Want to be a queen? Lauren Der won last year’s Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Scholarship Pageant, and the time is nearing for her to crown the next lucky young lady. To be eligible for the pageant, contestants must attend a mandatory orientation at 2 p.m. on Nov. 8 at the Expo Building on the festival grounds. The 2010 Queen’s Scholarship Pageant applications will be available to young ladies who are between the ages of 16 and 20, as of March 4, 2010. Each contestant should be enrolled and attending high school as a junior or senior, or have earned a high school diploma, and living within the current area boundaries. Applications must be hand delivered by noon Nov. 20 to the Florida Strawberry Festival Ofﬁce, located at 2202 W. Reynolds St. Questions regarding the Queen’s Scholarship Pageant should be directed to Chairman Brian West at 813-477-4034.

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

40 isn’t the end of the world

The staff at Florida Insurance Center, located at 414 N. Alexander St., surprised Trent Hinds by decorating his office for his 40th birthday. His office was covered in black with 40th birthday gag gifts. Here, he is pictured next to a fake corpse in a coffin, which was sitting in the lobby. His face is pictured on the skull. Happy Birthday Trent.

local talk of the toWn

2009 FOCUS

Your vote counts

FOCUS’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards are just around the corner. To vote for your favorite restaurant online, visit http://www.thefocusmagazine.com/ readerschoice. Also be sure to cast a vote for your favorite server, who will be featured in an upcoming issue of FOCUS.

Episode

Proud to be an American

BBQ with Mark

You can show your patriotism in November by going to the Elks first annual Ride 4 Freedom Poker Run, which will be Nov. 7 at 1501 N. Alexander St., with registration starting at 8 a.m. It is $20 per rider with freeevent T-shirt, $5 per extra hand. Proceeds benefit Bay area veterans. There will be food, beverages and raffles. Call 813-752-2822 after 4 p.m. or 813-784-9578 for more information.

myFOCUSTV.com

More than 40 people from across Florida came to Grandpa Johnson’s BBQ to learn how to judge barbecue from Plant City’s own Mark Poppell and the Kansas City Barbeque Society, the world’s largest organization of barbecue, grilling enthusiasts with more than 10,000 members worldwide. You can see these judges in action at the seventh annual Pig Jam on Nov. 15. Call 800-760-2315 for more information. Learn from Poppell yourself by checking out“Mark’s Backyard BBQ’n,” which is also on myfocustv.com.

Your chance at royalty

The 2010 Junior Royalty Pageant, which is for young ladies between the ages of 5 and 15 as of Jan. 1, 2010, will be Jan. 9. Applications will be distributed at a registration and drawing Nov. 9 at the Expo Building, located on the festival grounds. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and close promptly at 7 p.m. Pageant rules will be available Nov. 2 at the Florida Strawberry Festival’s office, located at 2202 W. Reynolds Street, as well as at www.flstrawberryfestival.com/ under “contest rules.” There will be four age categories, and each category will have a winner – a first maid and three court members. The categories are as follows: -Baroness 5-6 -Duchess 7-9 -Princess 10-12 -Queen 13-15 Any questions regarding the Junior Royalty Pageant should be directed to Chairperson Donna Keel at 813-754-6939 or Co-Chair Krystal Almon at 813-759-2827. Pictured are FSF General Manager Paul Davis and the 2009 queens: Danielle McCullough, Tori Wegner, Elizabeth Padilla and Reagan Brown.

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TOPS chapter No. 178 of Plant City celebrated a successful summer season of taking off pounds sensibly with an endof-the-summer barbecue. Members are shown wearing their tie-dye T-shirts that were made by each other. The chapter meets weekly at First Southern Methodist Church, located at 103 Johnson Road W., every Tuesday with a weigh-in from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and a meeting afterwards. For more information, call 800-932-8677 or 813-752-5874.

Staying on your heals

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Champions of the Arts – Mike and Diane Sparkman S to r y by C h e r y l J o h n S to n

Mike and Diane Sparkman received accolades last month at the second annual Champion of the Arts celebration. The Arts Council of Plant City honored the couple for their consistent and continued support of the arts in Plant City. Following a dinner at the Red Rose Ballroom on Sept. 18, friends of Cheryl Worsham, the council’s music director since 2000, provided lively entertainment. Grammy Award-winning vocalist and percussionist Millie Puente performed popular tunes with an ensemble of five other talented musicians. One highlight was watching Diane as she learned Mike had dedicated the group’s rendition of “Wind Beneath my Wings” to express his thanks for her love and support during 44 years of marriage. Mike Sparkman, a fourth generation Plant City native, has been a consistently positive influence in eastern Hillsborough County industry, government and civic affairs. He has served as mayor, a long-term city commissioner, business owner and in Florida Strawberry Festival leadership. Diane is his life partner,

their home’s keeper and an active community volunteer. Together, they have committed time, funds and energy to ensure Plant City’s successes will continue long into the future. Worsham was impressed by the Sparkmans’ humility, in light of their personal community support and involvement. “People will never know the extent to which this couple has quietly and anonymously given so much to so many – things like scholarships, payments for medical bills and donation after donation to organizations like the YMCA, the hospital, the library and on and on,” Worsham said. “The Sparkmans definitely deserve this honor.” The Arts Council was incorporated in 1975 by a group of locals interested in the arts. A group desired to bring the Michigan Art Council sponsored Art Train to Plant City. This project transported art to grassroots communities, with some American artists also demonstrating techniques as they visited en route. The Plant City visit was such a success that the professionals

Mike Sparkman gives an acceptance speech after the Arts Council of Plant City recognizes him as his wife, Diane, for their dedication to the arts. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Mike and Diane Sparkman accept an award from the Arts Council of Plant City at the Red Rose Ballroom. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

organized and applied to the Fine Arts Council of Florida – now the Division of Cultural Affairs – for an artist-in-residence. The National Endowment of the Arts funded and selected John Briggs for the local Artists-in-Education position. His desire to involve locals in the creative process resulted in his first Plant City mural, titled “Reflection of a Town.” In 1978, another group approached the council about forming a theater troupe. Today, Plant City Entertainment performs theatrical productions several times each year. The Arts Council of Plant City sponsors and encourages cultural and educational activities in surrounding areas through financial support and advocacy. Each year, approximately $7,000 in scholarships are awarded to deserving young artists, dramatists, musicians and dancers. Membership is open to interested persons or organizations. Members assist in planning, research, fund

raising, public awareness, property administration and government interaction. Along with grants and event proceeds, donations from businesses and individuals fund the council’s efforts for art-related functions. Musical concerts, theater productions and trips to museums, historical sites and the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center are ongoing ventures. Visual artist members exhibit art in several locations. The group also organizes the annual Tour of Homes in December, Chili Cook-off in February and Children’s Fun Festival in April. The council appreciates the generosity of citizens like the Sparkmans and others who feel privileged to raise Episode families locally. Obviously, where roots run deep, the arts thrive.

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local focus

You can voice your concerns here at the Bruton Memorial Library. For more information about when a representative will be at Bruton Memorial Library, visit http://bilirakis.house.gov/. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

Bilirakis office listens to voices of Plant City

S t o r y by cu r r i e d i c k e r s o n

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

free!

Questions are rising at nearly every corner of the country over many key issues concerning the health of America, but in Plant City, these frequently brushed over topics are being answered. As part of a community outreach program throughout the ninth district of Florida, representatives from Congressman Gus Bilirakis’ office are coming to the aid of the general public with answers to questions being asked throughout the community. Gus Bilirakis feels it is necessary for constituents’ voices to be heard regarding these topics for discussion, and then to resolve any presenting problems. “The outreach hours in Plant City are an opportunit y for my office to provide one-onone assistance G. Bilirakis to constituents and compliment the availability of my district offices in Palm Harbor and Temple Terrace,” said Bilirakis. “I hope that residents in eastern Hillsborough County will continue to take advantage of the monthly

sessions and bring their issues, concerns or requests for assistance to my attention.” These various community outreach programs are hosted throughout the ninth district of Florida at different locations, and should be attended by anyone who has a question for Gus Bilirakis. Bilirakis was first elected to Congress on Nov. 7, 2006, representing portions of Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Currently, he is serving his second term in office, and serves as a Member of the House Committees on Homeland Security, Veterans’ Affairs and Foreign Affairs. Additionally, he was appointed Ranking Member (Lead Republican) on the Subcommittee of Management, Investigations and Oversight in January 2009, granting him a lead role over the Department of Homeland Security. He is also a member of the Republican Party’s Whip Team, and Chair of the Veteran’s Affairs Task Force for the Republican Policy Committee. For more information about when a representative will be at Bruton Memorial Library, visit Bilirakis’ Web site at http://bilirakis.house. gov/.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Church blazes the pews for families and marriages S to r y by W e n dy S . B r o w n

If you were asked to fireproof your home, what would you do? Check the circuits and electrical wiring, maybe buy a fire extinguisher. But if you were asked to fireproof your relationships, then what would you do? To fireproof something is to protect from heat or fire. How do you do that with the relationships you have with friends, your children and especially your spouse? Pastor Michael Lewis of First Baptist Church of Plant City strongly believes the goal for the church is to build stronger relationships in families and marriages. “Fireproof ” is more than a movie, it is a movement of God to save lives and build families and marriages,” said Lewis. To this end, there are many activities planned at First Baptist Church to change relationships for the better. Twelve hundred people viewed the movie “Fireproof ” on a Sunday night and then indulged in cheesecake. The Public Safety Personnel banquet was held with more than 200 guests coming to hear actor Harris Malcolm, who played the father in “Fireproof,” speak and to enjoy a delicious roast beef dinner. Malcolm gave interesting tales from making the low-budget film. He also stressed the importance of commitments in marriages and how these relationships affect the family. Guests were invited to view the film Sunday afternoon and then stay for evening services when Erin Bethea, the movie’s lead actress, gave her testimony. Did you know “Fireproof ” was the No. 1 independent film in 2008?

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Did you know Bethea and her fiancé are reading “The Love Dare” with the last section being their wedding vows? Following the evening service, she and her fiancé visited with the singles adults division. Besides just watching “Fireproof,” which is a film of a heroic fireman ready to give up on his marriage, and visits by actors, the large congregation of First Baptist Church is stepping strong in faith to strengthen their marriages and relationships. In the film, Caleb – played by Kirk Cameron – receives a 40-day love dare from his father, who stresses accountability. Many Sunday school classes are studying “Fireproof,” “Your Life” or “The Love Dare” to build stronger, lasting relationships. On Oct. 17, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Dr. David Ferguson, a highly respected marriage speaker, will lead a “More Than Married Workshop.” The cost is $50 per couple, including materials and lunch. Expect to learn skills to strengthen even the best marriages and ideas to add sparks to any relationship. Culminating the 40-day love dare on Oct. 18, there will be a special evening service. A romantic evening is planned for participating married couples. On this evening, there will be a candlelight vow renewal, including a wedding march, special love songs and the exchange of wedding rings. A beautiful wedding reception for all couples will follow in the fellowship hall. This memorable marriagerenewal ceremony will create lasting memories. So check the circuits on your relationships. Are they heating up too much lately? I urge you to

Erin Bethea, an actress from the movie “Fireproof,” takes a break from signing autographs to smile with Lilliana and Michael Lewis. Photo by Wendy Brown

Erin Bethea speaks before a crowd at First Baptist Church of Plant City. Photo by Wendy Brown

watch “Fireproof ” with your friends and family. Why don’t you take the Love Dare? Come visit First Baptist Church and learn to put Christ first in your relationships.

“Now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13:13.

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local focus

Parking lot party pumps up fans S t o r y by C U r r i e d i C k e r S o n

Driving by Plant City High School on Sept. 25, one would have witnessed the incredible spirit of Raider pride. People of all ages came to enjoy the evening’s festivities and show support for the Raiders’ first home football game against the Newsome Wolves. The second annual tailgate party was the product of a widespread community effort, as many groups, including the PTSA, aided in the efforts. “It just shows how much the community has rallied behind Plant City High School,” says Steven Delgado. The plans for the event began as early as July, which demonstrated the hard work and determination many dedicated people put into the function. One such individual, Di Lott, realizes how important school spirit is for the community and longs for excited cheers toward

the Raiders to be apparent at every football game. A fundraising get-together at first glance, the tailgate party actually served two useful purposes. The money raised will be going back to the high school for various uses, but the morale raised serves to interconnect the community of Plant City. The party was “more about school spirit than profit,” said Traci Durrance, the athletic director at PCHS. Whether scaling a 24-foot rock wall or tossing a ball into a bull’s eye at a dunk tank, all who stopped by PCHS for the tailgate party had a part in the merriment. The crowd exemplified the spirit of the football season, as support for the Raiders rang through each victory shout. The event held before the game prepared everyone for an exciting game of football, showing just how much Plant City comes together to support the Raiders.

“It’s in the hole!” At least that’s what many students were hoping when they took the hole-inone challenge at the Plant City High School tailgate party. Photo by Currie Dickerson

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Howard Barnes, President QGS Development Lithia, Florida

Hot rods lined McCall Park at the NSRA event. Photo by Carolyn Miller

“Sunshine State has been a great banking partner. I can’t imagine banking anywhere else.” Howard Barnes is president of QGS Development in Lithia: “We started as a grassing contractor with one tractor in 1982. Today we’re an industry leader in golf course construction and site development. We handle projects not only in Florida, but also in Texas, New York, the Caribbean ... even Australia. We’ve come a long way but couldn’t have done it without the help of our local banking partner Sunshine State. I can’t imagine banking anywhere else.” If you’re a business owner who’s become lost in the “big-bank shuffle”, come talk to us. We have the services, the people and the strategies to help you grow and succeed. Call or visit our office nearest you today.

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Get your motor runnin’ S t o r y by C a r o ly n M i l l e r

They burned out on the highway to descend upon Plant City: part of the National Street Rod Association’s Regional Nationals, which sports close to 2,000 members. Hot rod enthusiasts drove to Plant City from as far as Spokane, Wash., many with more than 85,000 miles logged on their classic cars. These aren’t trailer pampered hot rods. These bad boys are street legal and driven regularly. The NSRA has a commitment to safety with regular safety inspection conducted by Greg Zonders, central Florida representative of the NSRA. He inspected brake lines and lights and made sure that chassis were sound. These cars were beautiful on the outside as well. “This is the first year that muscle cars from 1979 to older have been included in the NSRA,” said Zonders. Of course, this opened the club up to all sorts of great cars; Mustangs,

GTO’s, Cameros and more. Zonders passion for classic automobiles derives from “American Graffiti.” “I fell in love with old cars. My first car was a T-Bucket, but I bought a British Anglia next. Now I have a 1932 Ford,” said Zonders. The love of classic cars has grown over the years, as noticeable by the thousands of people wandering in the downtown area, and it could be in part to costs. Zonders says that the sport has become more affordable for the average Joe with reproduction parts. “They used to be fiberglass but now you can get metal sheets for 1932 Fords,” said Zonders, laughing and adding that, “Now there are more 1932 Fords running around than in 1934.” It seems that even with the current economy there are plenty of enthusiasts souping up old jalopies.

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If you would like a free review of your Portfolio or any of your other investments to see if they are appropriate for your long-term goals, please call or stop by today. Stephen W Shouse, Financial Advisor, AAMS 1514 S Alexander Street Suite 206 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9400

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Tim Shuff, Financial Advisor, AAMS 104 N Evers St Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1071 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Cultivating the athletic spirit The annual Punt, Pass and Kick contest gets kids active and excited about being outside and playing football. S to r y by M i t c h e l l Va r n um

As the sun rises over the ruby red water tower by the Otis M. Andrews sports complex, the world below begins to stir and awaken for a new day. The dew shrinks away from the soft, green turf as each blade of emerald grass stretches toward the sky in search of warmth and energy. The palm trees rustle with anticipation at the thought of what the day has in store, and the early morning breeze skips from field to field like an excited sports fan in the rush of pre-game pageantry. Suddenly, the voices of nature are silenced by the muffled thud of leather against shoe. Spectators bust into cheers and holler out good-jobs as the first football of the annual Punt, Pass and Kick competition is launched into the air. The games have begun. The much anticipated 16th annual NFL Punt, Pass and Kick competition arrived Saturday, Sept. 26 at the Otis M. Andrews athletic complex,

giving young athletes from age 8 to 15 a chance to showcase their abilities on the football field. In the spirit of fun and equal participation for all young athletes, no registration fee was required to participate. Registration for the event began promptly at 8:30 that morning and continued until the end of the competition at 11 a.m. The competition was broken up into four different age groups and then again by gender, resulting in eight separate divisions of the contest. A participant’s score was totaled by combining the total distance in feet of each competitors punt, pass and kick. The top three competitors in each division were recognized at the conclusion of the event, receiving a ribbon denoting their placement. The top scorer in each division was also awarded the opportunity to compete at Sectionals, where they will compete against other local winners for a chance to compete at the national level. However, the competition is not

all about winning. “Everyone here is a winner,” said Jack Holland, a member of the local Optimist Club who facilitates the contest and was one of the members in charge of organizing Plant City’s local event. The main purpose of the contest is for each competitor to have fun and enjoy a sport they love. Many of the competitors participated before the start of the multiple flag football games that they were participating in, or after the games were completed. The love of being active and playing football proved too strong for these athletes to leave the field without a chance to participate in the contest. “[The contest] is a great way to get exercise and gives me a chance to hang out with my friends and teammates,” Aaron Rhodes, a competitor in the 9- to 10 year-old boys division, said. While anxiously waiting for their turn, the athletes goofed off with each other and jawed about how

much farther they were going to send the ball down the field. Parents set up chairs and towels and relaxed with a good view of their children and earnestly applauded each competitor. “My kids love to be active and run around,” said Kerri Seguin, whose children Robert, 13, and Madison, 8, both participated in the competition. “They love being physical.” As the day wore on and the sun still climbed higher into the sky, more and more kids participated in the event. True dedication and enjoyment of the sport overshadowed the infamous September heat and the nervous wait time in line. “I just love football,” Jake Dube, 14, said. As the 16th annual Punt, Pass and Kick came and went, the athletes went their own ways, proud of the day’s accomplishments and awaiting next year’s contest with the hopes of doing better than ever, leaving the turf and the palm trees to whisper and murmur amongst themselves.

Pictured are (front left to right) Matthew Byars, Patrick Hicks, Kira Paskins, Makenzie Jones, (back left to right) Chase Ricketts, Hunter Shuff, Chris Collins, Christian David Hoyle and Hassan Bailey. Photo courtesy of City of Plant City Recreation and Parks Department

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Santa Claus S t o r y by A a r o n O b e r l i n

Once again, the people of Plant City will get the chance to guess how Santa Claus will arrive into the city during the annual Christmas parade. For the past 26 years, the Plant City Christmas Parade Committee has been organizing and overseeing the Christmas parade, which makes its way from Big Lots, located at 1425 S. Collins St., through the historic district to the Plant City Courthouse, located at 302 N. Michigan Ave. Every year, Santa has made a unique entrance. “One year, he rode on the back of the Mel’s Hot

year, and it is almost impossible to guess what it will be, such as the year Santa hovered into the downtown on an airboat. “I just love seeing the kids’ faces when Santa arrives,” Nielsen said. “That’s one of the best parts about Christmas is seeing how happy it makes the children.” Nielsen said there is “no methodology in deciding the way Santa will arrive,” and for anyone wondering how Santa will arrive this year, don’t waste your time trying to find out. It’s a secret, and only one person knows the answer: Nielsen. – Fran Nielsen “I’ll tell the people on the board [of the PCCPC] during lunch the day of the parade,” said Nielsen. The Christmas Parade always takes place during the first Friday of December. This year, the parade is Dec. 4.

“It was weird seeing Santa, dressed in red, sitting on the back of that red hot dog.”

Dog car,” said Fran Nielsen, co-chair of the PCCPC, referring to a car that is parked outside Tampa’s famous hot-dog shop, Mel’s. The car has a gigantic bun with a red hot dog inside it sitting on top of the automobile. “It was weird seeing Santa, dressed in red, sitting on the back of that red hot dog.” Although the Mel’s Hot Dog car entrance was probably the most unorthodox ever for the Plant City Christmas Parade, which Nielsen admits, the annual, unique entrance is one of the draws that keep people coming back every

Registration to be a part of the Christmas Parade ends Nov. 14. For more information, call Fran Nielsen at 813-404-2227 or the Plant City Chamber of Commerce at 813-754-3707.

LET LIFT YOUR SPIRITS, LIFT YOUR SITES, & LIFT YOU INTO A LIFTED TRUCK

Call Lionel or Mike with any questions about your next vehicle purchase. We will be glad to help you out with a second opinion whether you purchase from us or not. Over 50 years automotive experience in the area. We are here to serve the Plant City community with their transportation needs. Jarrett-Scott Ford 2000 E. Baker St., Plant City, FL 813-752-4171 jarrettscottford.com foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Hundreds dress in denim, diamonds for local hospital fundraising event S to r y by a a r o n o b e r l i n

More than 550 people squeezed into their blue jeans and came out to the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall on Sept. 24 for an evening of prizes, fi ne dining and a good cause at the 13th annual Diamonds and Denim. At $50 a plate, the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation, an organization aimed at providing philanthropic support for South Florida Baptist Hospital, was able to raise approximately $80,000 for the hospital, totaling more than $700,000 in 13 years. What the money from this year will be used for has yet to be determined. “The chief operating officer of the hospital will recommend how the funds are to be used,” said Judy Martin, executive director of SFBH Foundation. “Then the hospital’s board of directors will vote on it.” Besides the $50 cover fee, vendors and raffles contributed to the fundraiser. A 50/50 raffle awarded one lucky winner with $1,200. The most coveted raffle item of the night was a diamond ring that Dover resident

Grace Davis won. Even though the ultimate goal of the night was to support the hospital, most of the people in attendance would have said the food stole the night. “[Diamonds and Denim] has the best, warm brie with pecans I have ever had in my life,” said Mark Poling, owner of Mango Cleaners. Whether it’s the food, the raffles or the spirit of giving, Diamonds and Denim continues to draw people every year. “It’s a fun evening. The men like it because they don’t have to dress up, and it’s on a weeknight so it doesn’t interrupt football,” Martin said. “It’s for everyone, and the food is amazing.”

For more coverage on Diamonds watch and Denim, for more log onto myfocustv.com, episode 51. myFOCUSTV.com

Lauren Der, the 2009 queen of the Florida Strawberry Festival, announces one of several raffle winners at Diamonds and Denim. Pictured to the left of Der are Jocelyn Emerson, Morgan Feaster and Sara Beth Newsome. To the right of Der is Bruce Rodwell. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Not only does Diamonds and Denim enable money to be raised for South Florida Baptist Hospital, but it also allows people to socialize. Pictured here are Mark Poling, Jules Burt, Mark Johnson and Grant Poling. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

The food is always one of the highlights of the night at Diamonds and Denim. Just ask anyone who attended the event. Pictured here, Marsha Passmore enjoys the large selection of food. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

“Pets On Parade” Costume Contest Saturday, October 31, 2009 at 11 a.m. All pets are welcome - not just dogs

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local FOCUS

Students gather at the flag pole at PCHS to pray during See You At The Pole. Photo by Mike Storter

For some, school prayer proves it’s never too late Local high school student attended the national prayer gathering, See You at the Pole, just weeks before a fatal car accident. S to r y by C u r r i e D i c k e r s o n

Some could say the clanging sound of an un-Christian culture, one that has strayed far from God, surrounds today’s teenagers. This fact is apparent when observing the public-school environment: filled with hate, violence and pressure to constantly do the wrong thing. In response, students across the country decided to take a stand and hold a steadfast prayer as one body of Christ on Sept. 23, during an annual event called See You at the Pole. Prayers were lifted up for the encouragement of teachers, boldness for believers, hope for the nation and a spiritual awakening in the church. Seven years ago, See You at the Pole was also attended by many at Plant City High School, including one person, then-senior Joseph Howard. Described by his mother, Krista Howard, as a “friendly and kind boy who loved everybody,”

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

This picture of Joseph Howard and his girlfriend, Andrea, was taken seven years ago at Plant City High School’s See You at the Pole. Photo by Mike Storter

Joseph understood the importance her son’s death, Krista wants to enof attending the prayer gathering. courage young people to never wait Along with many others on that parfor their legacy to be fulfilled. ticular Wednesday morning, Joseph “Don’t go through the motions and his girlfriend, because you don’t Andrea, came know when your before the Lord to last day is going lift up their school to be,” she says. in prayer. This concept Together, as is exactly what believers in students at Christ, they both PCHS prayed for bowed before a few weeks ago: their Creator and to live each day petitioned for like it is your last. God’s love to be Although Joseph spread throughwas not able to out PCHS. Sadly, fulfill his future a few weeks later, plans, God used - Krista Howard him that day for a on Oct. 5, Joseph passed away in an specific purpose. unforgiving car accident, taking his Just as Joseph was a light and a soul up to his heavenly Father. witness for Christ seven years ago, In reflection of the event before numerous other believers gave glory

“Don’t go

through the

motions because you don’t know when your last day is going to be.”

to God at this past See You at the Pole. Jared Henderson shares that his goal throughout this school year is to “bring people to Christ and show that Christians are more than just students.” God was moving and working within many hearts of students inside Plant City High School, and the passion continues to spread through each hallway like a devouring fire. See You at the Pole was just the beginning spark for what God has planned for the body of Christ in Plant City. “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land.” - 2 Chronicles 7:14

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus rehashing the past won’t help the present. Never make big decisions when you’re tired or at night, you’re probably not thinking clearly. Have regular family meetings. Remember to listen and clarify what you have heard. Did you know it’s normal to have disagreements? We’re different people with different ideas and passions. Just decide what’s worth arguing about and don’t sweat the small stuff.

Many couples came to New Life Community Church to renew their vows in the eyes of the Lord. Photo by Wendy Brown

Marriage series allows couples to renew vows S to r y by W e n dy S . B r o w n

A sunset evening, a family gathering, the time for 11 couples at New Life Community Church to renew their marriage vows. At a time when 60 percent of first-time marriages end up in divorce and more than 85 percent of second marriages end up in divorce, it was something to witness loving, married couples publicly recommitting their lives in holy matrimony. The Rev. Fred Harrold Jr. of this Southern Baptist church originally wanted to be an artist. For 30 years he’s been a pastor also using his artistic qualities in congregation presentations. Deeply concerned with prevailing social problems of our world, the Rev. Harrold planned his 2009 Wednesday sermons around the theme of “Year of the Family.” This series has focused on enabling your adult children, balancing your

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

time and talents, studying the purpose driven life, marriage and commitment. Using Gary Smalley’s “Toward a Growing Marriage” and David Ramsey’s “Financial Peace,” the Rev. Harrold created a five-part marriage enhancement series. The Sept. 30 message culminated in 11 couples renewing their vows. For Chris and Cassie Gilmore, this was the first time for them really to say their vows. After a short and meaningful ceremony, there was a wedding reception in the fellowship hall complete with chocolate grooms cake, wedding cake, mints, nuts and punch.

don’t want to make commitments. It seems the fast-paced lifestyle and lack of moral values add to the throw-away mentality of goods and relationships. “Thinking there are plenty of fish in the sea, people forget they bring their same baggage with them to each relationship. Marriage is ordained by God to be a commitment between a man and woman,” said the Rev. Harrold Jr. This holy bond offers a true bond and dedication to each other. Paul Gibbs said, “It was good to take time to remember why we got married and to be creative in romancing my wife.”

Followimg is Rev. Harrold’s fivepart marriage enhancement series Part one: Why get married? It’s amazing many people today

Part two: Communication Attack the problem not the person. Fight fair and don’t bring up items from years ago. Obviously,

Part three: Creativity and romance It’s important for couples to do things together. Go on dates regularly, and even surprise your spouse sometimes. Do the unexpected: Love notes, surprise lunches and even helping with chores go a long way in showing your mate he or she is the love of your life. Guys, you can surprise your wife and clean the kitchen or cook her a meal. Ladies, you can watch the big game and be interested. Big hint, do not forget important dates like birthdays, anniversaries and especially Valentine’s Day. Part four: Christ-like behavior and legacy Husbands and wives are equal partners who should model Christian behaviors. The congregation learned the husband should be the head of the household with the wife the center of the home. We should pass along our faith, deeds and attitudes in our daily life. The Sept. 30 message was the fifth in the series, culminating in 11 couples renewing their vows. New life Community Church offers Christ-centered teachings in comfortable surroundings with contemporary music. Small, but with many activities, New Life has a huge heart for the Lord with Sunday school, childcare, children/ teen’s programs and Wednesday night services. This is “a place where everybody is somebody.”

Just what the doctor ordered. A new, dedicated orthopedic wing. We take the stress out of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation. Thanks to our exciting, new renovations, patients can now recover faster and more comfortably in their own specialized, private room. Our 10 luxury rooms are designed large enough to accommodate physical therapy equipment, so therapists can come to the patients. Rooms include flat screen TVs and access to an internet and media café – with computers and ortho-ergonomic furniture. Even fold-out sleeper sofas allow family members to stay over night. It’s the perfect healing environment in every way.

New Orthopedic Wing 301 N. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563 southﬂoridabaptist.com For a referral to one of our orthopedic surgeons, call 813-754-4444 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Plant City grad starts for USF football team by P h i l N e a r y

Mark Popek, a tackle for the University of South Florida football team, hopes to make an impact this season as the Bulls reconstruct almost their entire offensive line. USF replaces four offensive line starters from last season, leaving the door open for Popek to establish himself among the other players vying for playing time along the line. In just his redshirt freshman season, Popek has already impressed the coaches and, in turn, has earned himself the starting spot at right tackle. “He’s been coming along well. He’s developed the way we hoped,” said USF coach Jim Leavitt. “It’s really encouraging to see the young players develop the way they have. He’s going to play a lot this year.” Popek, 19, graduated from Plant City High School in 2008. On the football team, Popek starred at both offensive and defensive tackle, and earned himself a class 5A second team all-state selection for his performance during the 2007 football season. Recruited by established programs like Illinois, Vanderbilt, Cincinnati and even Florida, Popek decided the local route was the way to go. This way, he only has a 20-minute drive to visit mom and dad each weekend. Not only did Popek choose USF because of the proximity factor, but going to a school that has all the resources to have a successful football program was just as important, he said. “USF has everything I was looking for,” Popek said. “Everything has sort of fallen into place since I got here. Things are on the right track. Everyone’s been pushing each other in practice. I think we have a real shot this year.”

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Not everything was smooth sailing, though. Coming into college, Popek realized he had to get accustomed to a different lifestyle, whether it was on or off the field. “Everything sort of sped up for me last year,” he said. “The speed of the game and time spent studying film, going to the athletic center, practicing, lifting weights, running…It’s a little different from high school,” Popek said. “Taking a redshirt last year was a real positive for me. I was able to start managing my time right, I got my grades right, and I acclimated myself with University of South Florida football.” Popek said dealing with a little adversity last year, his first year in college, was too be expected. Like most freshman, Popek was just trying to fit in wherever he could. This year, he’s poised to be a force on a rebuilt offensive line, one that Leavitt describes as “young, but very athletic.” “I’ve been handling things a bit different than I did when I got here last year,” Popek said. “This year, I have a better mindset of what’s going on. I know what the coaches expect from me.” Going up against guys like George Selvie and Aaron Harris is also a new challenge underclassmen may find interesting. “I’ve gone up against (Selvie) a couple times,” Popek said. “I can see why he’s an All-American.” Who knows, maybe Popek will be an All-American some day. For now, though, all he wants is a chance to help the team win this year. “I just want to be able to contribute to this team,” he said. “Whatever I have to do.”

Mark Popek, a Plant City High School graduate, is the starting right tackle for the University of South Florida football team.Photo courtesy of USF

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SWINE FLU SHOT LINKED TO KILLER NERVE DISEASE

A warning that the swine flu vaccine has been linked to a deadly nerve disease has been sent by the UK Government to senior neurologist in a confidential letter. The letter from the Health Protection Agency, the official body that oversees public health, was leaked to The Daily Mail, leading to demands to know why the information has not been given to the public before the vaccinations of millions of people, including children, begins. It tells the neurologists that they must be alert for an increase in a brain disorder called Guillian-Barre Syndrome (GBS), which could be triggered by the vaccine. GBS attacks the linings of the nerves, causing paralysis and inability to breathe, and can be fatal. The letter refers to the use of a similar swine flu vaccine in the United States in 1976 when: • More people died from the vaccine than from the swine flu. • The vaccine may have increased the risk of contracting GBS by eight times. • The vaccine was withdrawn after just ten weeks when the link with GBS became clear. • The U.S. Government was forced to pay out millions of dollars to those affected. Concerns have already been raised that the new vaccine has not been sufficiently tested and that the effects, especially on children are unknown.

Sources: The Daily Mail August 15,2009 WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY • Chiropractic adjustments. Nerves control every organ of the body and help the immune system stay strong. • Eliminate sugar and processed foods from your diet. Sugar consumption has an immediate, debilitating effect on your immune system. • Take a high quality source of animal-based omega 3 fats like Krill oil. • Exercise. Your immune system needs good circulation in order to perform at its best for you. • Optimize your vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency is the likely cause of the seasonal flu viruses. Getting an optimal level of vitamin D will help you fight infections of all kinds. • Get plenty of good quality sleep. • Deal with stress effectively. If you feel overwhelmed by stress, your body will not have the reserves it needs to fight infection. • Wash your hands. But NOT with an antibacterial soap. Use a pure, chemical-free soap. READ NEXT MONTH’S ARTICLE FOR UPDATED INFORMATION OR CALL OUR OFFICE FOR FURTHER IMMEDIATE INFORMATION. CALL US FOR A CONSULTATION TODAY! (813) 752-2524

Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician 752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566

Dr. Dukes encourages you to write her with any questions concerning chiropractic care.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Remembering a career of service S to r y by a a r o n o b e r l i n

Sept. 26 to congratulate and show After 32 years of public service, their gratitude to him and his service Plant City resident Bill Davis is at his retirement party. joining the private sector. “I thought it was a fantastic Davis retired as a colonel with showing. There were so many people the Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s – friends, church members and family Office in September. After decades – who showed their appreciation,” of serving and protecting the third said Davis’ wife, Kathy. “I was largest county in Florida, he will shocked at how many people came. continue to investigate criminal I thought maybe a little more than activity and serve his community. 100 would show.” “I accepted a job with Travelers’ The effect Davis left on the Insurance investigating fraud,” said community was felt long before his Davis. “It was an easy decision to volunteer service. In 1978, after his retire. I feel like I finally grew up first duty as a patrol deputy, HCSO after 32 years at the sheriff ’s office.” assigned him to be the first schoolToday, Davis finds himself resource officer at traveling all across Plant City High central Florida, “being the School, the first with meetings in places as close as school resource school-resource officer ever in Tampa and as far officer, i feel Hillsborough away as Orlando. County. Some of Even though he that Was the the students at spends a lot of time roaming the Most reWarding the high school then were Bill I-4 corridor, his the heart still lies in of all the things McDaniel, current Plant Plant City, as it i did, because i City police chief, has for decades. and Mark Gee, An active didn’t realiZe Hillsborough member of County Sheriff the Plant City then hoW Much David Gee’s community, Davis of an iMPact i brother. has had a hand in “Being the several service had on PeoPle’s school resource organizations. He officer, I feel that was the immediate liVes.” was the most p a s t- p r e s i d e n t rewarding of all of Rotary, a past – BILL DAVIS the things I did chairman of the [during my tenure in the sheriff ’s Boys and Girls Club, a former board office], because I didn’t realize then member of The Spring, a former how much of an impact I had on team-development chairman of people’s lives,” said Davis. “I’ll run Relay for Life in Plant City, a current into a 35-year-old adult who’ll say, member of the board of trustees for ‘You arrested me when I was in high Florida West Coast Credit Union school. Thank you, you put me on and an involved member of First the right path.’” Baptist Church in Plant City. The students called him “Mr. Bill,” Nearly 450 people came to the a spinoff of a Saturday Night Live Florida Strawberry Expo Hall on

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

County Commissioner Kevin Beckner presents a declaration from the board to Bill Davis at his retirement party, honoring him for his service. Photo by Casey Bean

character, and Sheriff Gee still calls Davis that to this day. But he didn’t just watch over adolescents during his career, he supervised several officers who went on to make a name for themselves, including Sheriff Gee and Chief Deputy Jose Docobo. “At the time, I was the sergeant in charge of homicide, and Gee was a homicide detective. I recommended him for corporal,” said Davis. “He promoted me to major in March 2003. I feel so blessed to have worked with such a great department.” A week prior to Davis’ retirement, Sheriff Gee promoted him from major to colonel, a honor his brother Paul, the general manager at the Florida Strawberry Festival, also received. The promotion had no effect on pay scale or retirement

benefits. It was what Davis called “a courtesy.” Although Davis doesn’t plan to stop working or helping in Plant City anytime soon, he can take joy in watching his family contribute to the city, as well. His son Will Davis is the principal at Advantage Academy. His other son Steven works for the HCSO. He even has two stepchildren who he adores, Evan Dell and Cassie McClellan. He has five grandchildren and another on the way. Now that he has “finally grown Episode up,” he can watch his family do the same.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Local theater gives out yearly awards And the winners are... S to r y by W e n dy S . B r o w n

A glitzy show-biz evening Sept. 12 showcased the 24th annual Applause Awards for the local Plant City Entertainment group. For 30 years, this community theater troupe has been performing in plays and musicals to the delight of the community. At the end of each production year, awards are presented to outstanding actors and directors like the Academy Awards, only on a smaller scale. Tables in the banquet hall were extravagantly decorated in glamorous Hollywood show themes. Guests feasted on caesar salad, rolls, chicken picatta, roast sirloin of beef, steamed broccoli and carrots, parsley

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

new potatoes and various delectable desserts. Prestige Catering Inc. furnished the meal. Here is a list of the awards and the winners: Best Supporting Actress: Amber Roberts for “Anything Goes;” Best Supporting Actor: Tyler Hollis for “Shakespeare in Hollywood;” and Technical Contribution: Betty Roney, “Shakespeare in Hollywood;” The Brad Beahan Friend of the Theater Award: Florida Insurance Company, owned by Carl, Bruce and Dennis Brownlee; Best Actress: Jennifer Morgan for “Shakespeare in Hollywood;” Best Actor: Tyler Hollis

for “Anything Goes;” Director of the Year: Sandy Murphy and Vera Flynn for “Nunsensations;” Production of the Year: April Smith for “Anything Goes;” and the Hall of Fame Award: Kay Secord. Hal Brewer presented the coveted President’s Award to his lovely wife of 58 years, Lynn Brewer. Hal Brewer announced that after years of selling brownies, sodas and hotdogs at their productions, Plant City Entertainment is finally going to have a home of their own. On Sept. 3, the group paid $137,000 for a 6,000-square-foot building. The former C&S Used Furniture and Auction building at 701 N. Thomas St. will be Plant City’s new theater. Come and enjoy “Sex, Lies and the IRS” at the new venue in November. (right)Plant City Entertainment President Dr. Hal Brewer presents the President’s Award to his wife, Lynn Brewer. Photo by Wendy Brown

1701 Jim Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563 813.719.6605 The Law Offices of Joseph M. Williams, P.A. is proud to formally announce its partnership with Horace N. Moore Jr., Esquire. It is our pleasure to continue serving Plant City and the Tampa Bay Area, as Williams Moore Law Firm, P.A.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local focus

Rec center offers safe, weekend fun for teens S to r y by e l i z a b e t h e d Wa r d S

With summer at a close and the fall school season in full-swing, it is essential for pre-teens and teenagers alike to occupy their time with safe, inexpensive – and most importantly, fun – activities. Parents can breathe a sigh of relief, for Teen Night at the Planteen Recreation Center is back. For almost five years, Teen Night was run by the city of Plant City. Over the years, however, local adolescents have shied away from the event for one reason or another. Now, the Plant City Futbol Club has taken over Teen Night in the community, and attendance is back on track. Stephen Rossieter is the special events coordinator for the program and says that he enjoys helping out

with the events for many reasons. “I have seen that for four years, we have given teens a place to go on Friday night. It’s a great thing.” Teen Night occurs on random nights each month, always from 7-11 o’ clock. The Futbol Club has made events more appealing to the masses by incorporating theme nights (e.g. blackout party, all-white party) with special events dedicated toward the evening’s motif. Teen Night offers attendees pizza and refreshments throughout the night, complemented by a variety of activities to burn off the snacks including a game room with pool tables and foosball. There are additional concessions available for those who would prefer a different food choice. The event also hosts

Last year the Planteen Center got dressed up for a Halloween dance. Photo courtesy of the Planteen Center

a DJ so teens can dance the night away. The outside area also is open to roam on the playground. Fear not for their safety, the program is completely secure. Officers are on site to ensure any emergencies are handled, as well as a handful of volunteer chaperones from the community, made up of parents, friends and guardians. The events cost $7 per child, which is enough to cover the event’s expenses. Once attendance starts to pick up even more, the extra earnings will be donated to the Plant City Futbol Club. Teen Night is open to children ages 14 and older – or in the ninth grade. Children under 14 are only permitted to attend with parental consent. Fliers are handed out to all

local high schools in the area to alert them of upcoming events. The Plant City Futbol Club is also planning to start another set of Teen Nights specifically geared toward middle-school children, in grades six through eight, ages 12-14. The next Teen Night events will be held Oct. 16 (theme to-be-determined) and Oct. 30, which will be geared toward a Halloween theme. For more information regarding Teen Night, call the Planteen Recreation Center Episode at 813-659-4255 and ask for Chris Washburn, the Planteen Center myFOCUSTV.com manager.

There have been many events during October in past years. Look out for two Teen Nights on Oct. 16 and 30. Photo courtesy of the Planteen Center

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

The Best of Plant City

all ballots must be in by 12/01/2009 Welcome to the voting for the 2009 FOCUS RCA Awards. To make the voting process easy we have listed all of the categories below, all you have to do is fill out the box below the category with the restaurant you feel is the best.

Here are the rules:

1. All categories must be filled out. 2. You can’t vote for a restaurant that is irrelevant for the topic. For instance, a restaurant that doesn’t serve milkshakes can’t win Best Milkshake. The ballot will be discarded. 3. Voting is for Plant City establishments ONLY.

Remember Your Vote Counts 1. Best BBQ 2. Best Hamburger 3. Best Chicken Wings 4. Best Coffee 5. Best Cuban 6. Best Dessert 7. Best Seafood 8. Most Romantic 9. Best Overall Service 10. Best Fried Chicken 11. Best Hometown Cookin' 12. Best Breakfast 13. Best Italian 14. Best Mexican 15. Best Milkshake

local focus

Sarasota’s love boat The staff at FOCUS took off for the weekend and headed to beautiful Siesta Key, where they found a great way to enjoy the Key. S t o r y by E l i z a b e t h E d wa r d s

Florida tourists and natives alike can finally find a common ground upon which to agree: Sailing equals serenity. The open water is an escape like no other that brings any landlubber out of their element for a few hours of calm and quiet, away from the technological distractions society has become so accustomed to relying on for entertainment. After 15 minutes on Sarasota’s newest and largest sailboat with Tim and Jan Solomon, the only electronic device you’ll be scrambling for is a camera to capture the sunset. After surviving a snowstorm in Siberia and escaping a foiled kidnapping in Columbia, it is overwhelmingly apparent that the couple is nothing short of extraordinary. “This isn’t a career, it’s a second chance at life,” Jan affectionately states of the duo’s sailing business, Key Sailing. Both are Sarasota natives and adore the community almost as much as each other. The group services a melting pot of mates, from families of 15 to Hollywood celebrities,

including Judy and Ruth Landers of the TV series “The Love Boat” and many more. “[Jan and Tim] make it so fun, and the setting is just beautiful,” a local couple said on their fifth sunset cruise with Key Sailing. Key Sailing was born in 1973 when Jan and Tim began sailing together. It is currently Sarasota’s number one sailing charter, which is no surprise with a motto of serving “Clean air, fine chocolates and a few hours of peace on earth.” Jan and Tim offer affordable luxury on a daily basis, with customized and private sails available, for a full day or simply a sunset cruise. The group also offers free sailing lessons as well as a free personalized photo album for their clients. All of the tips Jan and Tim receive go to nonprofit organizations on each charter, just one more reason to admire the couple. For more information on Key Sailing, visit www.siestakeysailing. com or call 941-346-SAIL to speak with Tim or Jan, the sweethearts of the sea.

16. Best Asian 17. Best Pizza 18. Best Salad 19. Best Strawberry Shortcake 20. Best Soup 21. Best Steak 22. Best Server

(name/restaurant)

E-MAIL ADDRESS: If you don’t have time to vote, please feel free to cast a ballot at www.thefocusmagazine.com . Tell your family and friends about the voting, and help choose the Best in each category.

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

The staff from FOCUS enjoys a sail along beautiful Siesta Key. Photo by Sophia Hyde

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The YMCA is home to many programs that bring the Plant City community together. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

YMCA to hire a new director S to r y by a a r o n o b e r l i n

For more than 100 years, the YMCA has been building “strong kids, strong families, strong communities,” as the organization’s motto states. For nearly the past five years, Scott Warren has stood behind and exemplified those words in Plant City. As the executive director of the Plant City YMCA, Warren has watched the YMCA grow during his tenure. He said goodbye to the community in September after accepting a position as the executive director of the Pembroke Pines YMCA, a brandnew facility in Broward County. His last day will be Oct. 16. His first day in Pembroke Pines will be Oct. 19. “I love Plant City,” said Warren. “It’s a tight-knit community that really embraced me and my family. It’s fi lled S. Warren with people who care about their home, but I saw an opportunity that I believe will benefit my family further in the long run.” At the Pembroke YMCA, Warren’s duties will be similar to that of his in Plant City. He will root the YMCA within the community, and he will do all he can to “build strong kids,

strong families, strong communities.” During his four-and-a-half years in the Winter Strawberry Capitol of the World, Warren helmed a Y that added a game room for children, the Zeno Game Room, and implemented an annual luau fundraiser, giving families who can’t afford summer camp a chance to do so. Warren’s replacement has yet to be named, with one expected to be named in late December to early January. “We’ll use a process we’ve used several times in the past [to find a new director],” said Gene deManincor, the senior vice president and chief operating officer of the Tampa Metro YMCA, which oversees the Plant City YMCA. “We do some recruiting to get some qualified, executive experience to the community.” That process is a post on the Internet, reaching out to directors across the United States. “We’ll try to find who can build relationships, someone who can bring a community together,” deManincor said. The post can be viewed at YMCA.net. Just click on the “careers” icon and search “Plant City.”

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

local DID YOU KNOW?

For Plant City Photo Archives – it’s a new season, a new home S u b m i t t e d by G i l G o t t

The 2009 – 2010 season for the Plant City Photo Archives will be a special one for the history organization and museum of historic photographs as it moves into larger quarters in Plant City’s historic downtown. Founded in 2000 by Ed Verner, who continues to serve as the Photo Archives president, the organization worked for five years in borrowed office space before moving to a storefront at 119 N. Collins St., where it established its first exhibit gallery, and was quickly proclaimed “History’s New Home” by the Plant City Courier. Grand opening scheduled for Oct. 22 The new move will be to the former Orange Blossom Tea Room location at 106 S. Evers St., and the Photo Archives has scheduled its grand opening and open house for Oct. 22 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., with music, refreshments, special exhibits and public tours of the new facility. The building, known as the Stallwood Building, was built in 1917 and for a number of years was the home of the Plant City Courier newspaper, and also later was the Social Security Administration office before becoming the home for the Orange Blossom Tea Room. The Photo Archives will set it up with a reception area in the front room, with the director’s office adjacent. A wall has been removed to open up the space, and the exhibit gallery is directly beyond the reception area. There will also be a board room, which in future years will house the Gladys Jeffcoat Camera Museum, a separate image processing office, an exhibit work room and a

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

catering kitchen. 2009 – 2010 season will offer several special events The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class will get the first look at the new facility on a tour of the work in progress Oct. 13, and a briefing of the Photo Archives’ operations. Then, the grand opening will be Oct. 22. The annual Salute to Veterans exhibit will be unveiled at a reception and open house Nov. 7, with a reception from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and an open house continuing until 4 p.m. The public is invited to view the hundreds of photos of Plant City area veterans and enjoy patriotic music and refreshments. Additionally, the Arts Council of Plant City has booked the facility for two events – its membership meeting and dinner on Nov. 22 and the Tour of Homes on Dec. 13. With the 2010 New Year, the Photo Archives will present its fourth annual Progressive Tea, Tour of Homes and Hat Contest on Jan. 23 in the city’s residential historic district. And the annual soiree, An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories, is scheduled for April 1 at the Red Rose Ballroom, with live music, photo exhibits, elegant hors d’oeuvre, complimentary wine and a complimentary photo corner. The feature of the evening, the Heritage Award, will be presented to one of Plant City’s outstanding educators: James “Sonny” Jones. Archives’ accomplishments Plant City Photo Archives is an award-winning organization, having received an award from the City of Plant City in 2003 and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Plant City

The Salute to Veterans in November 2008. Photo courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives

Economic Development Council in 2006. Unlike many similar organizations, the Photo Archives receives no funding from the city or county, and supports itself almost entirely from local grants and donations. The Plant City Photo Archives is a member of the American Association for State and Local History and participates on the National Small Museums Committee, the National Council on Public History, the Florida Associations of Museums, the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation and the Florida Historical Society. Gil Gott, executive director of the Photo Archives,

has published a book about some of the photos and their stories, entitled “Remembering Plant City; Tales from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World,” The History Press, Charleston, South Carolina, 2007. The book is available in the Photo Archives’ gift shop. The gift shop also offers reprints and posters in various sizes. The Exhibit Gallery, offering changing displays, is open to the public Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its new downtown facility at 106 S. Evers St. For further information on upcoming events, call the Photo Archives office at 813-754.1578.

The new home of the Plant City Photo Archives is at the former location of the Orange Blossom Tea Room. Photo courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives

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local CHAMBER COLUMN

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

At this month’s STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW, which takes place Saturday, Oct. 17, you will be in for a special treat. The band BackTrack will be providing special, live entertainment. The show gets underway at 4 p.m. and runs till 9 p.m. in downtown Plant City. .................................................................. Don’t forget the FRIENDS OF THE BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY Annual Mystery Dinner Theatre. This year the presentation is entitled “I’m Getting Murdered in the Morning.” There will be two performances: Friday, Oct. 16 and Saturday, Oct. 17. Both performances take place at the Florida National Guard Armory, located at 4004 Airport Road, Plant City. The ticket price is $40 per person and includes drinks, dinner and dessert. You will not want to miss our local actors as they go all out to present a play you won’t soon forget. For information, call 813-267-0593. .................................................................. Are you ready for some great barbecue? On Thursday, Oct. 22, the GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City will be serving up just that at the Historic Train Depot on Palmer Street. This is a takeout dinner and will be packaged in a take-home package ready for you to enjoy. Pickup times are between 4 and 7 o’ clock. For tickets and additional information, call Judy Glorioso at 813-757-6004 or Judy Zaring at 813-754-6340. .................................................................. The PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES invites you to attend its brand-new location at 106 S. Evers St. during an open house on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be special exhibits and tours of the new facility. You’ll also be able to enjoy wine, cheese and music. Call 813-754-1578 to RSVP. .................................................................. How about a game of softball? John Wolfe wants to hear from men interested in playing softball. If you are younger than 55, then don’t bother to apply. This is for senior citizens. Games will be played at the city’s Randy Larson

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Softball Four-Plex, which is next to Plant City Stadium on Park Road. The league has been in existence for 19 years, and the teams are from Lakeland, Mulberry, Zephyrhills and Plant City. Call John Wolfe at 813-754-8649 for information and to sign up. Sounds like a lot of fun. .......................................................... .Halloween is fast approaching, and so are all the ghosts and goblins. There are a host of events planned up to and around this spooky day. First off, on Friday evening, Oct. 23, the GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE will present its second annual MONSTER MASH. Witches, vampires, ghouls and more – this is one you will die for. No bones about it, you are sure to have a spook-tacular time at the witching hour of 8 p.m. at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. Costumes are encouraged and there will be prizes awarded for the Most Original, Scariest, Funniest, Best Couple and Best Overall. In addition, there is a pumpkin-carving contest. Bring your already carved pumpkin from home to be put on display. First-, second- and third-place trophies will be awarded. Tickets for this spooky event are $65 per person or $125 per couple. In addition to the contests, there will be a 50/50 raffle and lots of food and drinks. Call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 by Oct. 21 to reserve your spot. You will not want to miss this event. .......................................................... .UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY has four nights of Halloween fun planned. They will have a haunted house located on Highway 39, one-half mile north of Knights Griffin Road. You can tour this haunted house Oct. 23, 24, 30 and 31. Children under 7 are free, all others, including adults, are $5 per person. The hours of operation are from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. For additional information, call 813-752-2727. .................................................................. Kids between the ages of 3 and 12 who are in Halloween costumes will be admitted free to DINOSAUR WORLD on Oct. 31. .........................................

The Chamber’s BUSINESS AFTER HOURS will take place Thursday, Oct. 29 at CRAWFORD-HILL INTERIOR DESIGNS, INC., 1407 E. Baker St. This is a great time to meet and socialize with Chamber members and also look over the great offerings available at Crawford-Hill. Time of this event is from 5:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. Please call 813-754-3707 to RSVP. Admission is complimentary. ........................................................... The PREGNANCY CARE CENTER OF PLANT CITY is holding its annual Celebration of Life banquet on Monday evening, Nov. 2, at the Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College. Call 813-759-0886 for information and tickets. .................................................................. The Greater Plant City Chamber’s Economic Development Council will hold the 2009 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARDS BANQUET on Thursday, Nov. 5 at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. Ten businesses have been nominated in four different categories. You will want to mark your calendar for this great event. Call the Chamber office for information and tickets at 813-7543707. .................................................................. Mark your calendars for the HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR, taking place at 4810 E. State Route 60, in Valrico. The fair gets underway Nov. 4-8. For additional information, you can log onto www.hillsboroughcountyfair. com. .................................................. Don’t miss the PLANT CITY NOON ROTARY’S second annual DANCING WITH THE LOCALS. This great show will take place Nov. 6 at the Red Rose Ball Room. Billy Keel is the chairman of this event. For information, you can call him at 813478-1290. Great fun. .................................................................. PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT is presenting a production of “Love, Lies and the IRS” on Nov. 6, 7, 13 and 14. Call 813-789-7892 for tickets and information. ..................................................................

Saturday, Nov. 7 is the date of the 100-target skeet shoot and barbecue to benefit UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY with all proceeds going to help those in need in Plant City. TENEROC SHOOTING SPORTS is presenting the event, which will take place at their location. For directions, log onto www.tenoroc.us. For additional information, call Joyce at 813-752-1275 or Linda at 813-752-2727. .................................................................. The Chamber BIKE FEST will take place Saturday, Nov. 7 in downtown Plant City. Great, family fun with live entertainment. Starts at 5 p.m. and goes on to 9 p.m. ................................................. The Chamber’s monthly CONTACT BREAKFAST will take place at the Red Rose Ballroom on Wednesday, Nov. 11. Guest speaker is Rob Turner, Hillsborough County Property Appraiser. Starts at 7:30 a.m. Call the Chamber at 813-754-3707 to RSVP. ......................................................... Plant City’s annual PIONEER DAY will take place at the 1914 High School on Saturday, Nov. 14. This is always a great time, and you will not want to miss it. ....................................................... REMEMBER TO SUPPORT YOUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER MEMBERS SHOP AND PATRONIZE THE BUSINESSES WHERE YOU SEE THE SIGN MEMBER GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Watch Coffee Talk every Friday to see Bruce Rodwell and Sandee Sytsma interview community leaders. www.myfocustv.com

local chamber column

Carrie Jo Anderson, CVT and veterinary technology instructor at the Plant City campus, supervises as students learn to place IV catheters in feline patients. (left to right) Jennifer McKnight, Carrie Jo Anderson and Mandi Tate. Photo by Erin Given

Chamber project grows to Chamber success

branch campus of the University of Florida to the Plant City Campus. Local residents could now obtain their associate’s and bachelor’s degrees without leaving Plant City. In 2004, the Chamber, the city and Byrd again struck gold with state funding for the large John R. Trinkle Community Center, named for another member of the original Chamber Education Committee. Many influential members of the community came together in 2004 from the city, the Chamber and other community organizations to conduct a fundraising campaign for the benefit of the Plant City Campus. Chaired by Jennifer Closshey and then Ed Verner, this committee raised $1.6 million, earned additional state matching funds of $900,000 and garnered the two largest donations ever received by HCC, $400,000 from Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan Association and $250,000 from the City of Plant City. Those funds have been used only in Plant City to fully equip the Trinkle Center, to strengthen ties with local

high schools through counseling and scholarship contracts to keep high-risk students in high school through graduation and bring them to HCC, to develop new workforcetraining programs like Construction Management Technology and Small Business Entrepreneurship and to establish a campus-endowment fund. With this long history of Chamber and community support, the campus itself is thriving. It has grown this fall to a record enrollment of almost 3,400 and 1,030 full-time equivalent students, an increase of 10 percent from last fall. This growth has been continuous, with the fall in 2008’s enrollment 10.7 percent above that of the fall in 2007. One big answer to questions about the contribution of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce to the Plant City community lies on Park Road and Cherry Street, where a college campus spawned by a Chamber committee continues to flourish and give back to the Plant City community.

S to r y by F e l i x H ay n e s

How does a local chamber of commerce benefit its community? A project begun in 1968 by the Plant City Chamber of Commerce Education Committee provides a good answer to this question. “This blue-ribbon panel of Plant City leaders,” recounts longtime Plant City leader Bob Edwards, “decided that Hillsborough Community College should have a campus in Plant City. Roy Thacker, Dick Elston, Frank Moody, Alex Hull, John Trinkle, Harold Taylor, Moring Clark, Jack Gibbs Sr., Jim Redman, Horace Hancock, Woody Liles, George Cairns and Dr. William Midyette planned a strong campaign. They obtained a commitment from the City of Plant City to acquire and donate 80 acres of land for the new campus.” The committee achieved success.

Offering the Associate in Arts and College Preparatory programs, the campus was started in 1971 in a former Publix store on South Collins Avenue. Construction of the first buildings for a permanent campus began in 1976 on the donated land at Park Road and Cherry Street. In 1988, the state funded the purchase of 14 acres of land south of Cherry Street and the renovation of the former Wards tire store and Felton’s Market. Since 1999, the number of workforce training programs offered at the campus has quadrupled, and nursing, veterinary technology, apprenticeship, advanced water treatment and various agriculture-related programs are flourishing. In 2001, the Chamber worked with the college and then-State Representative Johnnie Byrd to bring a

HCC students (left to right) Toshche Tubbs and Amanda Jackson utilize the computers in the Academic Success Center, where students can receive quality academic assistance. Photo by Erin Given

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

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2007 Toyota Tundra 2Wd crewmax 44,137m 5.7L 8cyl AT 20,990

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

2WD Ext. cab 23,090m 5.3L 8cyl AT 23,990

07 GMC Sierra 2500HD Classic

4WD crew cab 43,147m 6.6L 8cyl AT 36,990

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL’S

2009 Cover Girl

Analise Coffee By Currie Dickerson Photos by Billy Friend

Colors of brightly fabricated dresses lined the stage the night of Oct. 3, as 51 Plant City High School girls marched across the stage with anticipation for the exciting night ahead. Though each held an air of sophistication and elegance, only one young lady was able to claim the title of 2009 Cover Girl. At this year’s Calendar Girl contest, Analise Coffee stole the hearts of the audience and the judges as she demonstrated true beauty and poise. The night began with the procession of the candidates as a group, while all of the girls flashed brightly lit smiles to each one of the judges. After this fi rst exposure to the audience, the contestants had to begin preparing themselves for their upcoming individual walks. With all eyes fi xed on each one of the contestants as they made their way across the stage, the task of walking gracefully and with ease becomes quite a daunting endeavor. Coffee, however, made herself known by the elegant presence she possessed on stage. She specifically prepared for this part of the competition by practicing on stage before the event in order to perfect her confidence in walking. Following the individual walks, the judges were faced with a difficult task of narrowing down the competition to the top 25. Each contestant was now responsible for writing and memorizing a well-thought-out answer to the on-stage question, which was given moments before the competition began. The question was to pick a favorite teacher at PCHS and explain how that educator was such a strong influence in each contestant’s life. Coffee chose Larry Baker, her mathematics teacher, saying that “he’s taught me to have a positive outlook on life.” She communicated to the audience and judges confidently, as her poise continued to impress all who watched. Having gained experience in public speaking throughout other areas of her life, Coffee displayed an acquired courage on stage. She is currently the president of Students Against Drunk Driving and the junior vice president of Best Buddies. She is also involved with student government, demonstrating the value of leadership as a high priority in her life. The camaraderie of the contestants at this year’s contest was overwhelmingly present throughout the evening. “It was fun because I knew a lot of the girls,” said Coffee. After each portion of the competition, the girls continued to support and encourage one another, even after the night came to an end. Each young lady was a beautiful picture of grace and elegance, and all were a wonderful part of making the night special.

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL’S

2009 Calendar Girls

GI R COVER

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

DUR ANT HIGH SCHOOL’S

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COVER

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( L to R) Jason Creech, Chuck Westbrook and L.T. Cochran comprise the Plant City Paranormal Research. Photo by Derek Maul

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

OCTOBER 24 & 31 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

OCTOBER 31, 2009 JOHNNY THUNDER AND HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY In the Ballroom! Don your favorite costume and join in for an evening of music, food and fun! Prizes will be awarded for best costumes in different categories.

NOVEMBER 6, 13 & 27 DECEMBER 11, 2009 CHARLIE VEGAS AND THE NEW BLUES COMBO

Calling all ‘Swing Dancers”... come polish the dance floor with your moves to the tunes of the Kings of Retro Swinging Blues!

NOVEMBER 7, 14 & 31 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

NOVEMBER 7, 2009

STAYIN’ ALIVE - TRIBUTE TO THE BEES GEES & BARRY ST. IVES It’s a NIGHT OF DISCO FEVER in the Red Rose Ballroom. Internationally known English comedian Barry St. Ives will also be appearing. It’s not just a great night of entertainment, it is also a benefit for St. Jude Children’s Research Center. So, put on your dancing shoes and come enjoy a wonderful dinner... all for a good cause!

NOVEMBER 21, 2009 TRIBUTES TO NEIL DIAMOND & ROD STEWART

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"DooWop At its Best" with PJ Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

I-4 Exit 21 2011 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

lding i u B Trask

and strange noises f o rs o m ru e at There wer Building, lo cated k s ra T e th in to sightings the arcade next in d an , t. S s ld f the 102 Reyno r a reno vation o te f A . s ar ye y an or, and it for m found in the ﬂo e er w s ne o b g, buildin penings have ap h e ri ee e th , ever sin ce then ceased.

The S tate T heatre

Af ter an in vesti gation by the PCPR, it is plausible to say that there is pa ranormal activity in the h istoric S tate Th ea tr e. A lot of electronic vo ice eviden ce was c o At one time, llected. this landmark was a hub for weekend en tertainment. To da y, it sits dormant, but no t quietly. 62

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

“We face what you fear”

One day, traveling to an investigation, Plant City Paranormal Research team member Chuck Westbrook stopped in at a store. He was wearing his team T-shirt. The cashier had to ask: “Don’t tell me you’re one of those ghost hunters,” he said. “That’s all crap – that’s not real.” Westbrook is used to the response. What did take him off guard was the young man’s next comment. “I don’t believe in that stuff – but my grandmother’s house is haunted, you know!” Throw out the word “paranormal” in a crowd, and responses will likely run the gamut. “Ghosts.” “Science Fiction.” “Halloween.” “Spirits.” “Things that go bump in the night.” “Evil.” “The unexplained.” The American Heritage Dictionary offers the following definition: “Beyond the range of normal experience or scientific explanation.” Webster’s leans toward the psychic: “Designating or of psychic or mental phenomena outside the range of the normal.” The Oxford Abridged is uncharacteristically vague: “Supposedly beyond the scope of normal scientific understanding.” For one Plant City group, reading isn’t enough; their mission is to investigate, understand, explain and possibly help. “Plant City Paranormal Research” (PCPR), founded by L.T. Cochran in 2007, comprises nine curious, motivated and highly skeptical area residents. FOCUS talked with Cochran and two other team members. “We’re constantly asking, ‘What can we do for the community?’” said lead investigator Chuck Westbrook, 52. “Our mission is to provide service to the community by investigating and explaining paranormal activity – that’s our goal.” Cochran’s group is not interested in the kind of attention generated by cable television shows and tabloid news features. “There’s a deterioration of what investigation should be, and I’ve got disgusted with it,” Cochran said. Westbrook agreed. “The majority of groups out there go in trying to prove pre-formed conclusions. The television shows wouldn’t stay on if they came out at the end every week and said, ‘There’s nothing there!’” “Most groups are social gatherings to play in the dark,” said Jason Creech. “But this group is different.” PCPR members understand the powerful effect of perception. They take people at their word and they try to investigate with an open mind. “I’m the biggest skeptic in the group,” said Westbrook. “But if someone believes they’re haunted, they’re haunted until someone proves otherwise. We work hard to give other logical explanations.” Creech, who at 34 is the youngest member, said the people he meets on investigations are grateful PCPR came. “It’s like, ‘Thank God we have someone to talk to who takes us seriously,’” he said. Taking Plant City seriously is also important to Cochran’s team. They respect the values of the heavily churched community and deliberately posture themselves as faith-based. “We are proud to be a Christian-based team,” reads the back of PCPR’s business card. “I use God and the Lord Jesus for our protection,” Cochran said. “That’s why we’ve done it this way. This is what I’d like to say to pastors: ‘I’d like to find someone to back us up when need be.’” One recent investigation drove the point home. A disturbing encounter forced Cochran to rethink his previous conviction that most paranormal activity is harmless.

“Negative type haunts have really increased in the last year,” he said. “I had a firsthand experience face to face. I found a team of pastors from Lake Wales and they came to Merritt Island where I was working the case to do a blessing and a deliverance.” Team members believe Plant City is a community with high potential for paranormal research. “If people here would want to market it, Plant City has a lot going on,” Westbrook pointed out. “You have some of the most historic buildings around. The sheer history of it – this diverse rich history and a lot of ghost stories associated with Plant City – though it’s not publicly admitted. The richer the history, the richer the potential for paranormal activity.” On Jan. 16, PCPR gained access to the old Morgan Street Jail in Tampa, just before the structure was torn down. “It took me eight months of talking but we got in,” Cochran said. “The experience was awesome. We did a six-hour investigation, but we didn’t come up with anything we could document. We had personal experiences, we heard footsteps and there was someone whistling.” Plant City’s historic State Theatre yielded more concrete results. Cochran said a lot of electronic voice evidence was collected. Documentation involves equipment that has become standard for such investigations. “The most complex is the electromagnetic field meter (EMF). It’s an electrician’s tool we use to measure for base level data,” Westbrook explained. “The theory is that spirits manifest themselves within that field. If we get a spike, we’ll investigate further.”

“We also use infrared lights,” said Creech. “If something happens that we hear but can’t see, we can look at the video tape.” Cochran said the arsenal is rounded out with video cameras, and digital recording equipment designed to capture “EVP’s”, electronic voice phenomenon captured by the devices – yet not heard at the time of recording. Cochran’s team may go out of their way to avoid stereotyping, and to reassure the faint of heart, but a growing number of people want to publicize any paranormal activity confirmed at their location. “It’s a real boon if you own a bed and breakfast to have it documented,” Westbrook said. “They advertise packages, and people will pay more if it’s ‘haunted.’ Paranormal is big business.” For PCPR, October and the themes of Halloween provide a ready opportunity to break the ice with the public. “We’re doing the Bartow Halloween parade Oct. 28,” Cochran said. “We’re setting up a tent and handing out materials. People can talk to investigators and tell their story.” Plant City Paranormal Research is now an accredited affi liate with Ghost Research International (GRI). Additionally, PCPR serve as Florida’s president chapter for United Paranormal International (UPI), a watchdog organization concerned with establishing ethical standards. “We’re at anybody’s service anytime they need us,” Cochran said. “We’re discrete and confidential and do not charge for an investigation. I consider myself a spiritual warfare counselor.” PCPR can be reached at www.plantcityparanormal.com.

Go inside FOCUS with the paranormal team by watching an episode that will be online Oct. 28 on myfocustv.com.

Dr. Thomas Clair Maguire The F OCUS bu ilding used to be Dr. Thomas Maguire’s ofﬁc e. There was al so a drug store next to it for a while. With so much activity related to the h ospital ﬁeld, wh o knows how man y sickly or deathly ill peopl e c ame through the now-doors of Plant City’s m onthly magazine. An in vestigation by the PCPR yielded some interesting resu lts, but nothing concrete.

The Cornerstone Building Ask some of the people from Plant City Entertainment and they’ll tell you that sometimes things mysteriously disappear when they rehearse in the Cornerstone Building. Although no physical evidence exists, one does have to ask the question: Where have the missing things gone?

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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D V E R NE R

R E N R E D V D EE R E N R E V R E D N E EDE ED VERNER V VR E R NE R Interview By Brian West

Ed Verner is probably best known as one of the people who helped revitalize downtown Plant City – most notably the Lee Building – or as a co-owner of the Dallas Bull: a honky tonk located on Highway 301 in Tampa boasting 34,000 square feet and serving more than 15,000 patrons per month. He is an interesting person – one of those people who will be successful at anything they attempt – and his interests are diverse. He founded the Plant City Photo Archives, is the Chairman of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, and to add to all of that, he speaks eloquently. Read what he had to say.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

Ed Verner talks about the first dollar the Dallas Bull ever made. It is framed at the Dallas Bull.

FOCUS: Tell me about your parents? Verner: My mom, Sally Prosser, was born and raised in Plant City. She was Lew Prosser’s only child. My mom was a highly educated stay-at-home mom. She was a Phi Beta Kappa undergrad at Duke University. My dad, Dr. John Verner, was from South Carolina. My mom met my dad in college and straightened him out; helped him all the way through school. It was the classic story from the ‘50s. They fell in love on their first date. Apparently it was love at first sight, and they were talking about how many kids they were going to have. He had a career in North Carolina as part of the Duke Medical School and came to Florida in 1963. My brothers and my sister were born in the Carolinas, but I was born here in 1964. My father retired from medicine in 1987. FOCUS: Do you have any siblings? Verner: Yes. I have one brother, Jamie, and one sister, Sally. There was another brother who died in the early ‘80s when he was about 27 or so. He briefly had a presence here in Plant City. He had finished a couple of years of law school and was working with my grandfather when he died. FOCUS: Tell me about your immediate family. Verner: My wife’s name is Amanda. I have three children – two boys and a girl – and they are David, 14, Robert, 13, and Vaviel, 11. My daughter is the youngest, but she is emotionally and physically the oldest. She has the body and mind of a 15-year-old. That’s going to be fun. They’re all very precocious, and all musically talented. They all have varying degrees of

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

personality dysfunction, but they’re all great kids. They all attend Lakeland Christian School. Spirit-based education is so wonderful. I’m a lucky guy. But ask me again in five years when my daughter is attracting 21-year-olds. I’m going to have to clean my gun while sitting on the front porch. And Amanda has been a godsend. FOCUS: How did you meet Amanda? Verner: She was working as a receptionist here in our building and I hadn’t given her the time of day. After my divorce, I was looking for a nanny. I was talking to people at church, and a good friend of mine, Ken Gibbs, said, “Why don’t you consider Amanda as a nanny.” I know I looked at him like he was from Mars. She worked as an in-home nanny for me for probably six to eight months before any kind of romance started. She fell in love with my children first and then began to tolerate me, which is great because I don’t think I would have let anybody get close to me anyway. Turns out that Amanda snuck in the back door. Poor Ken Gibbs, he wasn’t thinking of romance. FOCUS: I understand you and Ken have been playing chess together for quite a while. How did that get started? Verner: I met Ken through Kiwanis. I was briefly an active member, and since my divorce I’ve been a pitiful, inactive member. Somewhere along the line he and I interacted in a way that generated a friendship. From then on, he and I have been really good friends. He and I were laughing about it the other day. He’s my best friend, and I’m his, probably. Yet I never see him on the weekends. I never see him away from

business hours. He has a really large family. He is the Papa bear of his family, and I have a lot of other things going on. We only interact during banker’s hours, and yet we’re close. We’ve been playing chess together for more than 10 years. Sometimes we play twice a week, and others we may go a month without playing. On average we probably play about once a week. I once asked Amanda what she thought about Ken. Amanda is very spiritual. She doesn’t talk much, but when she does its kind of like E.F. Hutton. And don’t ask her a question that you don’t want the answer to because she will tell you. It will be the truth, and you may not like it. So when I asked her what she thought about Ken, Amanda said, “He has a halo. There aren’t many people I’ve met with a halo, but there is a spiritual halo around him that goes everywhere he goes.” At the time I thought she was a little kooky, but as the years have gone by I’ve realized that was a truly wise assessment. He’s strong, he’s stubborn, he’s always right and it’s very irritating. FOCUS: Tell me about the path that got you here. Verner: When I first came to work in the family business, I was in citrus. I was basically a lackey and a grease monkey. I learned how to drive a truck – a big rig pulling fruit – so I was a truck driver for a while. When I came back after graduation, I was focused on citrus caretaking and harvesting for about two or three years. Then my grandfather sent me to work in the cemetery. We owned a cemetery and funeral home in Pinellas County. I worked there and started at the bottom. My first few days there I was helping dig graves on a backhoe. And just as I was getting the hang of it and starting to like it, my grandfather sold it. My grandfather, my father and I had some interest in a couple of Ford dealerships. They wanted me to understand it. I worked to understand the management and the numbers of the dealerships, but I really wasn’t a car man. I came back to Plant City and got more involved in property management. We were managing apartments, houses, commercial properties and two tourist hotels in Pinellas County. One of the citrus farms we had, I stubbornly turned into a tree farm. That’s where Florida Tree Source was born.

“I’m what you call a point A to point A flyer. I go up and enjoy the active flying. To me, it’s a very romantic and artistic thing.” - Ed Verner

Ed Verner loves history. Here. he stands in front of a photo of historic Plant City.

Then downtown revitalization is something I did, against the well wishes of my father and my grandfather. They had better sense than I did. I was fighting perception. The Lee Building was the one that brought me to downtown. At that time, the Lee Building had been for sale for about 10 years. When I walked into the Lee Building I was fully expecting all those paradigms to be in place; it’s a white elephant, it needs to be torn down and replaced, if they couldn’t sell it there must be something wrong with the building, etc. But I saw I-beam steel construction, yellow baked brick – not sand brick. It was a stout building. You could’ve picked it up by the corner like a Lego. There were piles of pigeon %$@ everywhere. I told my dad I wanted to buy it, and he told me to go to hell. The time was right. Downtown was beginning to feel good.

Continued on page 68 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

Not only does Ed Verner enjoy sailing, but he’s also an avid aviator.

I was hit in the head with a hammer about how much value there was in downtown. And there’s still a negative perception about parking in downtown. It is rare when you go to WalMart and don’t park at least 300 to 400 feet from the front door, but park at least 300 to 400 feet from the front door, but if you have to park across the street to go to a restaurant in downtown, that’s a problem. FOCUS: I get the impression you read quite a bit? Verner: I enjoy reading. My dad gives me a lot of books to read. I’m not big on the dry text. I like fiction and occasionally I’ll read some just to scratch my brain. I’ll read newsletters and magazines, but not much. I do enjoy studying the Bible. I enjoy history, especially military history. I typically read just before bed, but with a young, beautiful wife, that can be difficult. FOCUS: Tell me about your hobbies. Verner: I have a captain’s license and a pilot’s license. I’m a member of the Tampa Sailing Squadron in Apollo Beach. Amanda and I sail together. We have a passage-making capable boat. She is a potential world-class cruiser. Her sister ship circumnavigated the globe. I’d love to make some passages, but I don’t think I’ll ever be able to circumnavigate. Once the kids have gone off to college, Amanda and I would love to make some passages. Until then, I’m getting my sea legs. We go out a lot and sometimes take paying customers or friends along with us.

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

FOCUS: And you like to ﬂy. Verner: I love to fly. I have an old, aerobatic bi-plane. I got some training in aerobatics. I’m what you call a point A to point A flyer. I go up and enjoy the active flying. To me, it’s a very romantic and artistic thing. It’s just like sailing can be. I do moderate aerobatics. My plane is definitely in the top 5 percentile as far as aerobatic planes go. I do everything but severe negative-g aerobatics. That’s just because I don’t want to make myself sick. I’m real fond of giving kids their first ride in an airplane. And I won’t commit what I call “aviation rape.” Some instructors will take someone up and show them everything they’ve got, and then that first-time flyer never wants to go back again. But I want people to enjoy it and want to go back up again. When I’m flying – when I’m dancing with the wind – I’m flying very much for my pleasure. In fact, I don’t like to talk on the radio, and I like to go someplace where I can turn the radio off. It’s just me and the plane. I also like to compose music. I play the piano and the guitar. I composed the “Dancing with the Wind” music for the DVD we did for sailing. I’ve written a few soft-country ballads and one or two saucy rhythm and blues songs. For the most part, it’s the kind of music you could hear at a coffee house. All of my children play piano and they’re developing a love for classical music, and they’re own favorites. My daughter loves Andrew Lloyd Webber.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

Dr. Erica Smithberger

www.drsmithberger.com 813-752-0757 110 Southern Oak Drive

An artist at heart

Dr. Smithberger practices at the office of Dr. Catherine Clayton, located at 110 Southern Oak Drive in Plant City. Photo by Elizabeth Edwards

Dr. Smithberger. Photo by Elizabeth Edwards

To meet Dr. Erica Smithberger is to love her. Her personality is so bubbly and optimistic you would think she is a cheerleader in her spare time. “Well, I was a cheerleader for my alma mater, USF, but you don’t have to mention that,” Erica says with a sheepish grin.

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

It is, however, well worth mentioning, because words just don’t do her disposition justice. Erica’s favorite medical show is “Scrubs,” and she carries her own personalized business cards to give a little “something extra” to her clients. She loves photography, cooking and her family. Speaking

of which, she recently celebrated her Plant City. Prior to working as a 10-year anniversary with her highdermatologist under Dr. Catherine school sweetheart. Clayton, Erica spent four If that isn’t years doing her residency enough to at the University of South convince you she Florida, specifically has a wonderful training in the field of life, she and her dermatology and serving husband share a as chief clinical resident. son and a daughter, She then gained her ages 3 years and 9 Doctorate of Medicine months. Growing from the college and up on a farm in started working here in Lutz, Erica feels Plant City. right at home in “The staff is very Plant City. fun, and Dr. Clayton Erica is a native is a fantastic mentor,” to Tampa, and Erica says of her current loves that her position. She doesn’t even current Plant mind the commute, due -- Dr. Erica Smithberger City office is to the fact that she loves centrally located her patients so much. between Brandon, “Everyone has been so gracious and Lakeland, Tampa and, of course,

“The staff is very fun, and Dr. Clayton is a fantastic mentor. Everyone has been so gracious and nice to me since I started.”

Jeanna Williams, Debbie Ballantyne, Cindy Card, Dr. Catherine Clayton, Dr. Erica Smithberger, Donna Doty, Dawn Lively and Lora Harmon are ready to deliver top-notch treatment. Photo by Elizabeth Edwards

nice to me since I started.” Erica specializes in a combination of clinical and surgery procedures as well as cosmetic services. All procedures are outpatient and done within the same day, in office. Erica specializes in a variety of services including medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology. Medical services include skin exams, eczema, psoriasis, biopsies and lesion treatments. Surgical procedures she performs are mostly treatments of skin cancers, and her cosmetic treatments include, but are not limited to, neuromuscular blockers and dermal fillers. “It’s definitely artistic,” Erica lovingly states of her profession.“I enjoy it every day.” For more information regarding Dr. Smithberger or to schedule an appointment, visit www. drsmithberger.com or call the office of Dr. Catherine Clayton at 813752-0757 for details. The office is conveniently located off Thonotosassa Road at 110 Southern Oak Drive in Plant City.

The lobby is spacious with comfortable seating, plenty of cold water to drink and a wide selection of reading material to keep you cozy. Photo by Elizabeth Edwards

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

business focus

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

investment moves

by A a r o n O b e r l i n

It’s Halloween time again, so you’ll probably be seeing a lot of ghosts, goblins, witches and werewolves. While you may f ind these sightings more amusing than fear-inducing, you don’t have to look far to f ind things that really are frightening — such as scary investment moves. Fortunately, by recognizing these sinister steps, you can help avoid them. Here are a few to consider: Scary Move No. 1: Trying to “time” the market — If you always knew when to “buy low and sell high,” you’d be a tremendously successful investor. Unfortunately, no one can accurately predict highs and lows — and if you try to jump in and out of investments in response to speculation about where the market is heading, you could end up missing good opportunities. You’re typically better off by staying invested and investing based on your individual risk tolerance, time horizon and need for diversif ication. (Keep in mind, though, that diversif ication, by itself, cannot guarantee a prof it or protect against a loss.) Scary Move No. 2: Chasing after “hot” tips — You can get “hot” investment tips from anybody — your neighbor, your brother-in-law or even that guy you always see at the bus stop. But while these tips may be well intentioned, they may be f lawed, f or a couple of reasons. First, if an investment really was “hot,” by the time you hear about it and get around to purchasing it, it may already be cooling off. But more importantly, it might not be suitable for your individual needs. Look for investments that you understand and that can help you

meet your goals. Scary Move No. 3: Investing too aggressively — or too conservatively. If you invest too aggressively, you could be taking unnecessary chances. On the other hand, if you invest too conservatively, you may never achieve your long-term objectives. Try to f ind a mix of investments that f its your individual risk tolerance. Scary Move No. 4: Leaving your portfolio “unbalanced” — Over time, your individual situation will change, as will the fundamentals of some of the investments you own. That’s why it’s important that you regularly rebalance your portfolio, possibly with the help of an experienced f inancial professional. Scary Move No. 5: Failing to take advantage of investment opportunities — To help meet your goals, such as a comfortable retirement, it’s important to take advantage of suitable investment opportunities. Contribute as much as you can afford to your 401(k) or other employersponsored retirement plan, as well as your IR A and other retirement accounts you may have. As an investor, your greatest ally is time, so the more years you invest — especially when you’re investing in tax-advantaged accounts such as a 401(k) and an IR A — the greater your prospects for achieving your f inancial objectives. You can’t elude all the pitfalls that life may hold in store. But by avoiding these terrifying investment moves, you can help improve your prospects for longterm success — and that’s not a scary thought at all.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Natalie Sweet

Background: I was born and raised in the seaport town of Gloucester, Mass. from a family of hard-working fishermen. My husband, three children and I moved to Plant City in 1989 where I worked for Sunshine Designer Homes, and then in corporate sales. I was a realtor prior to coming to Florida, and in 2004, I felt it was time to do what I love best again: helping people find their dream homes. A very special time in my life was being a den mother for Boy Scout Troop No. 733 and helping those boys through their scout careers. My two sons earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

Aspirations: I love my career. My goal is to continually exceed my client’s expectations and stay well-educated in the real estate field. With a busy profession, it’s sometimes difficult to find a balance in my life. My family is very important to me. I now have three beautiful granddaughters whom I love to be with. I want to be a good example to my children, grandchildren and others. One day I’d love to take my whole family to go on a week’s vacation, either a cruise or to visit Gloucester. Inspirations: My parents inspired me with their

hard work ethic. My father was a fisherman, and my mother was in the restaurant industry for many years. Both were very successful and hard working in their professions and in their family life. They instilled in me the values of honesty, hard work and compassion for others.

Success: I feel blessed to have a wonderful working relationship with local realtors. My team at Keller Williams Realty consists of Angel Miller, Cathy Martin and myself. Since coming back to real estate in 2004, I have been fortunate to have a successful career and have earned numerous awards including No. 1 agent at Keller Williams in 2006 and 2007. I believe I’ve been continually successful as a realtor because I do what I say I will do. I’m honest and always try to do what needs to be done to help my clients. Future: I see myself continuing to help Plant City families with their real estate needs for many years to come. Giving back to the others is important to me. I work on special community events and have acted in the Friends of the Library mystery plays. I hope I will have more time for my family and more community events.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

business success

Tommy Warnock First Baptist Church’s youth pastor

Background: I was born May 13, 1958 in Memphis,Tenn. I graduated in 1976 from Raleigh Egypt High, in 1980 from Memphis State University with a bachelor’s in history, and in 1983 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Religious Education. I married Pam Connell of Plant City in January of 1982. We have two children, Trey Warnock, a Masters of Science student at the University of Florida, and Brooke Warnock, who is studying to become a teacher locally. Aspirations: To do exactly what I have had the opportunity to do. To serve the Lord in the lives of people, helping them to come to know Him, to grow in their life with Him, and then to partner with them to show His love and further to share His good news with others. To have served a community like Plant City for all these years is more than I could have ever hoped. I have relationships with folks who I have known since they were children and now have witnessed their salvation and growth, have assisted them in their marriages, celebrated the birth of their children, have shared in their joys and challenges, and at times have now been involved in their children’s lives as I was with their parents. It is a great gift to know and serve people to that extent. My aspirations are summed up in Matthew 22:37, Matthew 28:19-20, and 2 Timothy 2:2. “To know Him, Worship Him and to Make Him Known in such a way that His way is passed on.”

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Inspirations: My father T.M. Warnock, Sr., who can do anything and is so very wise; my wife Pam, who has the greatest character I know; Leo Roberts, a retired marine; and Charles Dill, who taught me about discipleship. Oscar Calhoun, who taught me to be a minister, and all those I partner with here at Plant City’s First Baptist Church. And then from another perspective, when those I serve pass their faith and passion for Christ on to another in such a way that they are in turn able to invest in someone else… that is exciting. That is New Testament Christianity. Successes: I spent 25 years as the chaplain for the Plant City High Sschool football team. I was Individual Speaker of the Year for the SERVE organization, and I received the Tom McEwen Award for volunteerism from the National Football Foundation. And, of course, I was chosen as the 2009 Plant City YMCA Strong Leader. But real success for me is in my daughter Brooke, who loves our Lord and lives with passion, in my son Trey, who I admire as a man and I consider a best friend, and when my wife and I are found faithful in the lives of others in Jesus’ name. What’s next? Honestly, I hope a lot more of the same. I was born in a big city, but have fallen in love with our community and home, Plant City. I hope I can live out my life serving my Lord in this community. I love our agricultural foundation. I am passionate about helping our people become all God has created them to be. The scripture says in 1 Corinthians 12:18, “God has placed the members (Christians), everyone of them, in the body (in His service) as it has pleased him.” I believe I am right where I am supposed to be and seek daily to be faithful with those He trusts to me. My hope for us all and my challenge to us all is summed up in this one statement: God’s best and no less, always that is my hope for us and my challenge to us. May we never settle for less.

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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HOME GUIDE

This is a special advertising section

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

LIVE UP TO YOUR EXPECTATIONS! 3Bd/2Ba, 1686 SF. Newly installed laminate fl ooring throughout, beautiful granite countertops in kitchen w/plenty of cabinet space. Enjoy private backyard w/large patio that overlooks manicured fenced yard. $159,900. Also, for rent for $1200/ Month. #92

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WATERFRONT PROPERTY – Located on 5 gorgeous, secluded pristine acres in Thonotosassa. Flint Creek runs on property (No Flood Insurance Required!) Minutes to I-4 & Tampa, possibly sub-divide. Only $144,500 – A Steal of a Deal! #93

BRAND NEW HOME! Enjoy meals in new 1588 SF, CB, 3Bd/2Ba, gourmet kitchen w / huge granite countertops, breakfast bar, s.s. appliances, wood cabinetry & 12ft ceilings on ¾ acre. Only $189,000. Also, for rent for $1000 /Month. #28

BIG FAMILY? Plenty of space 4Bd/2.5Ba, 2168 SF, includes in-law apt & cozy fi replace! Serene setting under grand father oaks on 1.17 acres. You’ll love screened lanai, huge pool & deck. Only $164,900. #15

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY 1440 SF Retail space plus canopy & storage. Ideally located w/ ample City parking, brick facade. New CH/A, newer roof. Make this your office or Shoppe. $249,900. #1

BREAKS YOUR HEART! SHORTSALE but what a deal! 2 dwellings Nostalgic 2 story 3Bd/1.5Ba, den & 2 FRPL and 4 unit Apt house! 2 lots all for $ 82,900. Hurry! #73

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PRIVATE WOOD SETTING 3Bd/2.5Ba, 2476 SF on 3.26 acres. Lg kitchen, corian counter tops, center island & loads of cabinets. Family rm includes stone fireplace & built in entertainment center. Master bath has his/ her sinks & window seat. Property is fenced on secluded paved road. Asking $199,900. #27

CONVENIENT LOCATION WITH COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE 3Bd/2Ba, 1977 SF, built in 2001. Lg kitchen, all appl., FM rm w/frpl. Cheerful DR/LR combo perfect for entertaining. Located on ½ ac Cul-De-Sac. Priced at only $120,000. #24

ROUND ‘EM UP – On this pretty, secluded 5 acres in Plant City! 3Bd/2Ba, DW mobile home & additional MH hookup space makes for perfect income for rental. A must see at $155,500. #31

2Bd/1Ba home is move in ready w/freshly painted interior, new carpet, new cabinets in kitchen & bath. Newly installed metal roof. Who cares if it drizzles? Move the picnic under cover of this large screened patio. Beautifully wooded grounds provide shady comfort with plenty of room for parking. Only $105,000. #83

Sipping lemonade on front porch swing? Gleaming wood fl oors, large county kitchen w/ appliances, charm & character in this 2Bd in Historic Lkld. Fenced yard w/cpt & workshp, neat & tidy this one is a delight to own. Only $ 85,000. #19

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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

ACREAGE & COMMERCIAL IDEAL COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL! - Hwy 574 - 1.33 AC, this highly visible corner site is perfect for retail, business office, warehouse, etc. Priced right @ $ 399,500. Please call for more info. #60 TERRIFIC OPORTUNITY FOR DEVELOPER – 10 acre tract can be developed w/8units/acre or 5 duplexes per acre. Site recently annexed into City of Wauchula w/R-2 Zoning and Low Residential Land Use. Owner motivated – bring all offers!! $149,900. #76 13 GORGEOUS 1+ACRE LOTS LOCATED IN DESIRABLE CORK - Priced to sell from $ 51,900 to $ 99,900. Call to stake your claim on these wonderful country sites. Owners VERY MOTIVATED! MAKE OFFER! #120-135 BUILDING LOT IN DOVER – Pretty 60x120 ft lot, perfect for your home. 2 pretty canary palms enhances the chain linked front. Only $17,900! #45 US 98 NORTH... 2.35 acres MOL, busy highway frontage, great visibility, over 45,000 trips/day. Zoning has multitude of uses - convenience store, storage bldg, bank, and more. Call for more details. $ 575,000. #40 LOCATED WALKING DISTANCE TO SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY This graded lot is ready for a home. Priced at only $ 30,000. #10

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

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STARTER HOME ON 1 1/2 ACRES

BUNGALOW IN HISTORIC PLANT CITY

BEAUTY ON 1 ACRE

Beautiful 5+ Acre Executive Lots in this Gorgeous Gated Community. You will fall in love with this unique Equestrian Community w.21 lots & plenty of wildlife. Horses welcome! From $99,000.

Quiet Country Living yet close to everything. Modest tidy home w/lots of perks. 30X40 garage/workshop w/ electric for all your projects & fenced pasture. $99,900

This lovingly cared for home features gleaming pine ﬂoors, high ceilings, large formal dining room, living room, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths & updated wiring. Easy commute to I4. $110,000

Wonderful 3 Bdr/2 Bath home featuring updated kitchen w/maple cabinets, corian countertops & stylish stainless appliances. Great property w/separate workshop/den & additional bath. Call today! $149,900

4 Bdr 2 B home and everything was updated in 1995 from the roof to the floors. Hardwood floors, enormous garage & workshop, irrigated fields and so much more. $300,000

Juniper Lake home w/Gorgeous kitchen with wood cabinets & granite countertops. Newly added screened pool w/ pavers. 14X20 extended lanai w/ pavers & AC, $229,000

Search for homes at www.AnotherSweetSale.com 83 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

real estate walden lake review

A lot’s happening in Walden Lake right now The Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month. The next meeting will be Oct. 19 at 6 p.m. S to r y by N ata l i e S w e e t

Immediately following the next meeting will be a meeting of the presidents of the neighborhood homeowner’s associations. The matter of a new board member to replace Bob Williamson was handled at the recent meeting. Jim Chancey nominated John Corson to fill Williamson’s position. A second was made, there was discussion and the vote was taken. The outcome was a unanimous decision to approve Corson as a new director. Thank you, John, for caring enough for the community to get involved. City permits have been issued for the new buildings. The old barn has been torn down and site work has begun. Tom Duramus said the estimated time for completion is the end of January. Naomi Fiegel, of Walden Reserve, came to the board to ask about the possibility of annexing their development into Walden Lake. There are 52 lots, and 14 homes are currently occupied. No action was taken

as the board would need to review the Walden Reserve HOA articles and deed restrictions as well as their financial situation before discussing this matter. Walden Reserve is the gated development just east of Walden Lake’s entrance off Trapnell Road. Homeowner’s associations are notified when a lender begins a foreclosure on a property. Walden Lake has been notified of more than 60 properties currently in foreclosure. Some of these homeowners are current on their dues and some are not. The entrance to Laurel Lake will be redone with new landscape soon. Aston Woods asked the board to do some extensive work to improve their entrance due to overgrown trees and problems with roots. The board received estimates, which were much higher than what is normally spent on any one entrance. The Board voted and approved an allowance of $2,000, and the Aston Woods

HOA will have to pick up the balance. The board also approved the removal of the center tree. Aston Woods residents Denny Stutler and Darryl Jennus were present at the meeting. A motion from Jack Wolff was made to include city residents from outside Walden Lake to register and use its dog park. There was discussion and a vote taken. The vote was declined. You must register as a member to have your dog at the park. There will be a Halloween Party on Oct. 31 at the dog park from 10 a.m. to noon. Dogs and children are asked to dress in their best costumes and come to the party. You do not have to be a dog-park member to attend during that time. There will be goodie bags for the children and prizes for the best costumes. Annie the Pet Nanny will judge the dogs, and Betty Guarino will judge the children. Another letter will be going out regarding registering for the new-and-improved Web site. Please take time to register and see what is on the site. There are coupon

offers and information from which all residents can benefit. The board received a quote to install a sunshade over the playground equipment at the park. A sunshade would provide shade and keep the slides and equipment cooler for the children. The cost to install the sunshade is extremely high, and the board has decided to explore the possibility of a sponsorship at this time. Walden Lake Golf and Country Club has been working on getting the Hills course reopened by November. The country club is booking holiday parties as well as other functions. Please call Michele at 752-1171, extension 222 for all your event planning and membership information. Don’t’ forget to come out and support the Plant City and Strawberry Crest high schools swim and golf teams. They are holding their local meets and matches at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club.

4 BEDROOMS, 3 ½ BATHS, 2 MASTER SUITES, 1 PERFECT PLACE TO CALL HOME FOR SALE 1302 VICTORIA ST., PLANT CITY, FL 33563

$259,900

CONTACT AARON DAVIS 813-763-0981

Email: aaron@hillsboroughtitle.com Showing upon request

HOME DETAILS:

• 4 Bedroom • 3 Full Bath, 1 Half Bath • Loft/Game Room • 2 car Oversize garage • Built in 2002 • 2,430 Heated Square Feet

LAND DETAILS:

• Nearly 2 Acres • In City of Plant City • City Utilities

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

• 3,414 Total Square Feet • Open Front Porch • Screened Back Porch • 2 Master Suites with Full Baths • Walk in Closets

• 1 Mile from I-4 • Secluded, Private • “In the Country, but in the City”

YOU KNOW THERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU JUST CAN NOT COMPARE

Loan Process start to ﬁnish Lowest Down Payment available Representative at closing Insurance Quote Assistance Available on Weekends Free Credit Repair Assistance

Plant City Mortgage 12 Days $0 Yes Yes Yes Yes

Other Guys 30-45 Days 20 % Yeah Right! Keep Dreaming! Call on Monday Not our Job!

THERE IS A DIFFERENCE WITH LENDERS!

PLANT CITY MORTGAGE Service Speed Knowledge Nate Davis Loan Originator Ofﬁce: 813.707.6200 Cell: 813.763.3910

1501 S. Alexander Street, Suite 103 Plant City, FL 33563

813.707.6200

www.PlantCityMortgages.com foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

Welcome New Agent! Brenda Ruiz Brenda will be assisting launching Casa Coldwell Banker. Call her today! Se Habla Espanol

SOL

D IN

FISHING FROM YOUR BACKYARD, PARADISE!

An Oasis for the upper echelon, this exclusive lake frontage property is available for sale. Premium homes are currently being built on these serene estate lots. The value is here and the savvy purchaser of this private fishing lake land will wake up to this view everyday. 2.30 acres; 1.5 upland. MLS #T2368878. $219,000. Call Janet Moore 813-751-9890 or Brenda Herring 813-365-0353.

23 D

AYS !

THE LAND YOU’VE BEEN SEARCHING FOR!

Build to suit or move manufactured home on location - site ready. Electric, well and septic in place. Previous manufactured home site. Fenced pasture. Livestock welcome. No deed restrictions, HOA’s or CDD’s. MLS #T2382860. Contact Janet Moore 813-751-9890 or Brenda Herring 813-365-0353 For more properties…

ELEGANCE + SPACE! 6 Bedrooms, 4 Baths, 3 Car Garage, 4681 sq ft on 1+ acre. Cul-de-sac and conservation street of custom homes. Formal LR/DR, family room, and TWO bonus rooms! Workshop with electric & water. MLS #T2388067. $500,000. Call Maggie Beard 813-299-7155.

BRAND NEW! $184,990

SHORT SALE

Easy to show 4 Bedroom 2 Bath home in Walden Lake with double garage, shady fenced back yard with outdoor patio area. Tile in kitchen with room for a breakfast table. Formal dining room and split floor plan. Walk to Walden Lake Elementary by walkway. MLS #T2388350. $162,900. Call Jean Bridgmon 813-478-3107

Just released 3/2, over 1,700 square feet former model home loaded with upgrades! This home features Corian countertops, upgraded wood cabinetry and ceramic tile, beautifully landscaped and is ready to go! Qualify for the $8,000 tax credit? No delays here, smooth sailing, quick closing from start to finish. Possible closing cost assistance as well. Call today, this one won’t last long. MLS #T2386647. $184,990. Ask for Malissa, 813-967-0168.

THE PASTURE YOUR PRINCESS NEEDS FOR HER HORSE, DADDY!

Peace and serenity greet you when viewing this nine acre pasture complete with pond, 3 Bedroom/2 Bath, 1288 sq. ft. manufactured home has well, septic and electric in place. Zoned AS-1. MLS #T2375376. $320,000. Call Janet Moore 813-751-9890.

STONEY CREEK RESERVE

Creek Crossing Lane in Dover. Four wooded home sites ,… approximately 1 acre each with Pemberton Creek in your back yard. Street lights and underground utilities already installed. Come build your home in an enchanted forest! $105K to $115K. MLS #T2387576, T2387563, T2387570, T2387575. Call Maggie Beard 813-299-7155.

MOVE IN AND UNPACK!

That is all you will have to do here. This house is pristine and is priced to sell! Set among large oaks and mature landscaping you definitely won’t want to miss this. Volume ceilings and an open floor plan add to the spaciousness of this home. Relax on the large enclosed lanai adding to the living space. The back is completely fenced with wood privacy fence. The roof is approximately 1 year old and the AC unit approximately 5 years old. The Jack- n-Jill bath gives access from both bedrooms. No short sale here, no hassles-this will be smooth sailing from start to finish. Call Malissa Crawford, 813-967-0168,today for your private showing. MLS #T2377032. $116,000

LAUREL LAKE! Carefree detached condo’s in private gated community. Orchid model (shown) 2 Bedroom/2 Bath with DEN and screened patio priced at $247,500. Also available, Aspen model 2 Bedroom/2 Bath and bonus room $179,800. MLS #T2331401. Call Maddie 813-382-8382 to preview.

RESIDENTIAL ACREAGE

Ten acres waiting for residential development. Offering 660 feet of paved road frontage and zoned AS-1 to allow for one dwelling per acre. Property is located within walking distance to Diamond Hills Golf and Country Club and Gated Community. Surrounding neighborhood includes additional executive estate home developments. The adjacent corner parcel belongs to local church. MLS #T2382085. $525,000. Call Janet Moore 813-751-9890 or Brenda Herring 813-365-0353.

AVAILABLE NOW!

With lots of roaming room you will be sold the instant you drive through the gate! This 4BR/2BA home with an open floor plan is sure to be a pleaser. The kitchen is huge and offers endless possibilities, large indoor laundry room and a large walk in pantry. Settling in by the fireplace is a great way to end the evening and relax. This home on 4.02 acres offers fabulous views from every angle. The barn in the back and oversized 2 car garage are sure to meet your every need. Enjoy the best of both worlds because you are still just minutes from shopping. Call today! Malissa Crawford 813-967-0168. MLS #T2378863. $269,000.

Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City

813-754-3586

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

www.floridamoves.com/plantcity

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

Dedicated to the Value of Home & Family JUST LIKE NEW

Two-story 3BR/2 BA/2+CG home that features 2533 SF living, oak floors, fireplace, surround sound, vacuum system, water softener and security system. Plus unfiinished 1000+ SF 2nd story waiting for your personal touch to make it an entertainer’s delight . Priced to sell @ $299,900. MLS#T2378065.

NEW ON MARKET

Two homes built in 2005 on 1+ acre in the country-all for the price of one! Main home is 3 BR/2 BA/2 CG with 1400+ SF living. 2nd home is 1 BR/1 BA w/carport. Nice pool area situated in between homes. $249,900. MLS#T2388754.

U RED

2 BR/2BA home overlooking Lake Louisa in Clermont with a beautiful sitting porch and boat house for ski boat and float boat. Situated on 1.5 acres with 2 outbuildings and detached carport. Owner is Realtor-asking $399,900 and will consider some financing. MLS # T2383456

U RED PEACE AND QUIET 4 BR/2.5 BA manufactured home with over 2000 SF living and above ground pool. Located in the country on almost one acre wooded lot with private drive. Wont last long at this price-$119,900! MLS#T2383893.

E TERRACE DR PLANT CITY

1.68 acres in area of newer homes convenient to I-4. Restricted to homes of 2000 SF or more. Owner Financing Available. $64,900. MLS#T2339873.

18.5 high & dry acres with office building and 60x60 metal building with loading dock. Fenced w/water & sewer. $1,300,000. MLS# T2386723

BRING THE ANIMALS

Gorgeous two-story “farmhouse” built in 1997 and situated on 8.3 acres of pasture & grandfather oaks that is fenced and currently greenbelted. Home has 2 BR/2 BA, 1870 SF, gas fireplace, wrap-around front porch, screened back porch, metal roof and 24x48 barn/workshop plus 2 car carport. $399,000. MLS#T2373494.

NEW LISTING

1.27 fenced acres with 4 BR/2 BA newer doublewide that features over 2300 SF, fireplace, deck and much more. Large workshop/storage area included. Great buy at only $149,900. MLS#T2388743.

CED

CAREFREE LIVING

2 BR/2BA condo on the golf course with 1041 SF, new appliances, new wood floors, granite counters, screened porch and open floor plan. Convenient to clubhouse on a conservation lot within a cul-de-sac and access to community pool. Now $163,000. MLS#T2381230.

INDUSTRIAL

JUST LISTED

Beautiful two-story 4 BR/3 BA with over 4000 SF living, screened pool area w/grill area, formal living areas and very open floor plan. All on a 1/2 acre landscaped lot in wonderful family subdivision with no HOA fees. $329,000. MLS# T2388714.

CED

NEED A VACATION?

A CLASSIC BEAUTY

3 BR/2 BA brick home with wonderfully shaded 1/2 acre yard situated in family neighborhoodno HOA fees. Home features 2300+ SF living, brick fireplace and lots of room to entertain for family & friends. $209,900. MLS#T2313351

ROOM TO ROAM

Two-story home with 3000+ SF living and so much to offer with fireplace and tanning bed in bonus room included. Situated on 20+ acres with 3 ponds, stable w/6 stalls, barn w/pest control system, and detached rental for extra monthly income. Don’t miss this opportunity-$399,900! MLS#T2379475.

TURKEY CREEK RD

6 acres of fenced property waiting for your dream home and some horses. 2 wells included. $252,000. MLS#T2373595

ATTENTION INVESTORS

WALDEN LAKE

3BR/3 BA/3CG home with over 3000SF living area, tile floors, gourmet kitchen, formal living and master bath with hot tub and separate shower. Situated on a cul-de-sac lot in a great family neighborhood. $326,900. MLS#T2378814.

ROLLING VISTA LP

Perfect building lot in new community of larger homes. Ready for your dream home of 2400 SF living or more. $59,900. MLS#T2324771

Commercial building located near hospital and I-4. Currently in the remodel stage. Buy now and customize for your particular business. $360,000. MLS#T2330860.

SOUTHWIND DR MULBERRY

Building lot with access to secluded air strip for the pilot in you-build your own hanger. $29,900. MLS#T2333753.

SPARKMAN ROAD PLANT CITY

One acre building lots convenient to town. Area of newer homes, with 3 lots to choose from at a great price! Hurry-they won’t last long! Only $38,900 each.

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

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

www.ﬂoridamoves.com/jimmie.robinson

E-mail: Jimmie.Robinson@floridamoves.com • toll free 1-877-442-7001 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

Renee CoRzine

real estate mortgage

KeLLeR WiLLiAMS

Realtor Multi-Million Dollar Producer

1607 S. Alexander Street • Suite 102

813-716-6007

rcorzine@tampabay.rr.com

$365,000 3 HOMES ON 9.47 ACRES All 3/2 Split Plans, 1200/1064/924 SF, Lots of Upgrades, Cedar Beams & Trim Detached Workshop, 3 Sides Fenced

$175,000 EAGLE GREENS IN WALDEN LAKE 2/2/2, 1364 SF, Granite, Wood Cabinets, on Golf Course, Split Bedrooms, Scnd Lanai

Discounted real estate S t o r y by N at e D av i s

$125,000

$139,900

HISTORIC DISTRICT

BLOCK HOME ON 1/2 ACRE

2/1, 1096 SF, Totally Updated, Hardwood Floors, Newer Roof & Windows & Appl, Utility Shed, Fenced

2+Bonus/2/3, 1455 SF+ Home, 1200 SF Block Gar/Wkshop, Fireplace, 300 SF Bonus, Tile, Crown Molding, Fence

Home Flooring Center Free Estimate

No Fancy Showroom • No Pushy Saleperson Just Low Honest Wholesale Prices

Tile • Carpet • Wood • Laminate Shower Tile

MOBILE Larry Bradshaw, Owner 25 Years Experience

SHOWROOM

813-707-1775

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

As many of you may k now, I invest in rea l estate quite extensively. I often get asked about buy ing shor t sa les, foreclosure homes and bank homes. A l l of these terms are “trigger” words to the buyer who is look ing for a good dea l. See below for a brief explanation of each. I would highly encourage anyone who is unfamiliar w ith these terms and processes to enrol l the help of a rea ltor in your home-buy ing process. Shor t sa le: This occurs when you purchase a proper t y for less than what is owed. Essentia l ly the lender a l lows the current ow ner to sel l for less than what is owed on the proper t y. Shor t sa les can take longer than standard sa les since the sel ler and the shor t sa le lender must rev iew and approve the sa le. Patience is often rewarded w ith a nice purchase price on these dea ls. Foreclosure sa le: A foreclosure sa le occurs when a borrower does not make the agreed upon pay ments on a home loan. The home is then auctioned off at a loca l cour thouse. These sa les require that you have the cash in hand to buy a home that same day and therefore buyers who need f inancing are usua l ly ineligible

for these t y pes of purchases. W hile these are usua l ly great buys, you must have the cash in hand to purchase the proper t y and have done your homework since there can be unk now n proper t y issues and title defects w ith the home. Bank ow ned (R EO): These proper ties are usua l ly listed for sa le by a rea ltor and can a lso be a great buy. Since banks usua l ly place equa l va lue on the time to sel l a proper t y as they do on the f ina l price. For this reason, they are often aggressively priced to quick ly attract buyers and offers. These homes are show n just like any other standard home for sa le, and you can prev iew the home prior to submitting your bid. You are a lso able to obtain f inancing on these homes if the sel ler a l lows. Despite the above buy ing oppor t unities from motivated sel lers, don’t pass up the good dea ls that stil l exist from standard transactions (indiv idua l sel lers). Just as some foreclosure sa les may not be a good dea l, there can a lso be some stea ls out there from indiv idua ls who simply want to quick ly sel l a proper t y on which they owe little or nothing. Happy hunting - Nate.

#1 Agent

Selling? Call me. My Listings SELL!

REFLECT YOUR SUCCESS! 3300+ SQ FT Executive Home built for entertaining. 3 Large Bedrooms, 3 Baths & a 3-Car Garage. Features a Great Room with soaring Tray Ceilings & Custom Home Theater with Surround Sound, Ceiling Mounted HD Projector & Retractable Viewing Screen. This home also has an office with built-in shelving which can be converted into a 4th bedroom if needed. Salt Water Pool & Spa too. Lots of Upgrades! Located in Walden Lake’s prestigious Sutton Woods! Asking $354,900 & this seller is MOTIVATED!

SELL THE LAWN MOWER… Rare opportunity to own this ONE-STORY Townhome with Golf Course & Pond Views in Walden Lake. Immaculate 1500+ SQ FT 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2-Car Garage unit features Ceramic Tile, Crown Molding, Fireplace, Jetted Garden Tub & a Screened Patio to enjoy the view! Monthly fee of $135 won’t break your budget either but best of all you won’t have to worry about lawn work anymore! $159,80

HOW FAST CAN YOU MOVE? This 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath 2200+ SQ FT Pool Home is Move-In Ready! Features include Custom Built-In Picture Niches, Chair Railing, Wood Flooring, Quartz Countertops & a 3-Way Split Bedroom Floor Plan. But what you’ll absolutely love best is the breathtaking view from this Waterfront Beauty in Walden Lake’s Forest Park. $269,000

PRIVATE SANCTUARY! Located in a community off Valrico Road just north of SR-60 this meticulously cared for 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2-Car Garage Block Home on a Gorgeous Pond/Lake features Ceramic Tile, Remodeled Kitchen, Vaulted Ceilings & a large Screened Patio that makes enjoying the awesome view so sweet! NO deed restrictions. This home is just as cute as can be! $125,000

Lorraine Bennett (813) 716-3997

MyHappyRealtor.c

om *2008 GROSS CLOSED VOLUME

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

Tom Poppell at the original location, circa 1964

y e 5 a 4 r s g n i i n b u s i n es s t a r b e l e C “ ”

“Thank you Plant City”

Tom and Eleanor Poppell with sons Jon and Mark, circa 1969

In 1964 Tom Poppell started Poppell Insurance in a small house on MLK (formerly Haines St). Decades later his two sons, Jon and Mark Poppell, have continued to serve the Plant City community. They know the only reason they have been here for 45 years is because of the support from this wonderful community, and for that they are truly thankful.

Poppell Insurance today

Poppell Insurance location circa 1970

MeyersPrintShack@gmail.com Brent - Paula - Hayley - Jay

813-967-1942 813-365-0960

CUSTOM

T-SHIRTS 90

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

FOR CHURCH - SCHOOL - WORK - TEAM OR JUST FOR FUN! SCREEN PRINTING, RHINESTONE DESIGNS AND EMBROIDERY

Little Giggles 105 West Oak Drive Lakeland, Fl 33803 863 682-7722

Watch for Trinity on TLC’s Season Finale of “Toddlers and Tiaras”

FOCUSTV

Awarded “Best in Formalwear” & “Best in Casualwear” Custom Designs by Little Giggles

Shawn Finley at Martin’s Place

Specializing in Fiber Glass

Holiday Cash $10.00 off $50.00

by Back Scratchers!!

813.759.1023 ext 258

or more non-sale item purchase...no other discounts apply

110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 400, Plant City, FL 33563

CROSS PEST CONTROL E SINC 1952

“Don’t let bugs SCARE YOU! CALL now for a FREE estimate”

WELCOME TO TALL TIMBERS APARTMENT HOMES! PLANT CITYS NEWEST APARTMENT HOMES IS TALL TIMBERS. EXPERIENCE NATURE AT ITS BEST WITH LUSH LANDSCAPES, SHADY OAKS AND PEACE AND TRANQUILITY. COME JOIN US AND SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THE WARM, FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE OF HOME.

of Plant City, Inc.

“THE ORIGINAL” 6 MONTHS PEST CONTROL SERVICE TERMITE CONTROL • STINGING INSECTS • ALL HOUSEHOLD PEST

Call 813-754-1571 for Expert Service Justin Lariscy, Agent

First Florida

Insurance Agency, Inc. 1605 S. Alexander St. Suite 101 Plant City, Fl. 33563 Tel. (813) 704-4805 Fax (813) 704-4896 Email

justin@ﬁ rstﬂ oridainsuranceagency.com

T T

ALL IMBERS

APARTMENT HOMES

ONE LOCATION REMARKABLE FLOORPLANS NESTLED AMONG NATURE’S GIANTS

OWNER MANAGED

1001 FAIR WINDS CIRCLE, PLANT CITY, FL 33563 • (813) 707-1151 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

Try one of our featured Waffle Bowl Sundaes flavors: Chocolate Covered Strawberry, Turtle, or Fudge Brownie Temptation

real estate buying and selling

DAIRY QUEEN

IN PLANT CITY!

Where’s the big deal? S t o r y by J o - A n Lus k

813.752.2236 1902 W REYNOLDS ST.

Everyone is looking for “the deal” these days. It can be anything from travel discounts, retail shopping, automobiles, to real estate. This column will focus on real estate, of course, and help you with some statistics. The numbers below are important for several reasons: They may negate rumors out there that the market is better or worse than some believe, and the numbers help us to better understand what the market is doing, to prepare and qualify customer expectations. The statistics below are about one piece of the market: short sales. The information, I believe, is revealing and confirms the truth that short sales may not be the best deal. It will depend on your situation. The period covers the past six months, and only what was sold through realtors participating in the Multiple Listing System:

180 bed nursing and rehabilitation center Physical, occupational, and speech therapists State-of-the-art 5,000 square foot therapy gym

The Health Center of Plant City 701 N. Wilder rd.

813-752-3611

WWW.healthceNterofplaNtcity.com 92

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

Hillsborough County

Plant City

Total sales:

7,393 properties sold

231

Short sales:

329 properties sold

The short sales sold in Hillsborough Country represent less than .05 percent of the total sales in this period. For Plant City, less than .04 percent have actually closed in a sale. There are currently 1,545 active short-sale properties listed in Hillsborough County – 48 of those are located in Plant City. The average time for a short sale to sell and close is a minimum of four months. I have heard that one bank in particular receives more than 70,000 shortsale requests per month. These are from people who are trying to work with the bank. If you are interested in a vacated property that is in short sale, you may find that the homeowner has “moved on” and may not be interested in cooperating. You will need to talk to a realtor as most banks will only work these files through a realtor, attorney or authorized – and qualified – negotiator. It can be a slow, frustrating process if the homeowner is not communicating or participating with the bank. First-time homebuyers should not make an attempt to purchase a short-sale property and receive a tax credit unless they have received an approval from the bank that the short sale can close by Nov. 30.

Team Wainoris...Selling Plant City and Lakeland

Randall & Kathleen Wainoris

813-997-3000 863-608-1557

REALTOR® / Attorney at Law

REALTOR® / Notary

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Charming 3 bed/2 bath Lakeland home, just 1 minute from Polk Parkway and shopping. Large family room, nice yard with 9x12 utility shed on quiet cul de sac. Just $135,000

sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com

Multi-Million Dollar Producers

PLANT CITY TOWN HOME Beautiful upgraded 2 bed/2 bath unit with bonus room and rock ﬁreplace in living room. Large back yard, great location just 1 minute from I-4. Don’t miss this one! $119,900.

863-688-2822

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

PLANT CITY POOL HOME Adorable 3 bed/2 bath pool home with absolutely beautiful fenced yard just minutes from I-4 and shopping. Renovated baths, dual pane windows, separate living room and family room. Inside utility and beautiful polished wood ceilings throughout! Just $139,900.

REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE by Randall Wainoris, JD, MBA

ABC’S OF BUYING AND SELLING BRING THE FAMILY

Great location and great schools. 5 bedroom pool home in Lakeland Highlands area. Almost 1/2 acre, split ﬂan with formal areas Only $249,000.

SEE YOUR HOME HERE!

This could be a photo of your home! Call us today to see how Team Wainoris can help you sell your home!

Here at Team Wainoris, we are always trying to make it easier for you to buy or sell your home. With all of the real estate terms and information out there, I thought I would summarize some of the more common words and deﬁnitions that you need to know about before you pack your bags and enter the housing market. Short Sale or Pre-foreclosure sale: The seller is trying to sell the home for less money than is actually owed. As a result, the seller needs the approval of their bank or lending institution before they can sell the home. Often, the various lending institutions are very slow at approving these transactions. Sometimes these sales take many months.

Real Estate Owned or REO as it is usually referred: The owner of the property has already foreclosed on the property. Often the owner of the property is a bank or lending institution. These transaction generally move along much faster than a short sale. However, many of these homes need work. CARE FREE LIVING

Enjoy care free living in this Kimberlea 2 bedroom 2 bah condo. Volume ceilings, lovely enclosed porch with private wooded back yard. Inside utility. Only $112,000.

NEED SPACE?

Beautiful 2800 square foot, 4 bed/3 full bath Lakeland pool home. Price reduced to sell at just $198,900

FHA (Federal Housing Administration): The FHA provides mortgage insurance to lenders as long as the loans meet certain guidelines. One big advantage of utilizing FHA ﬁnancing is a lower down payment.

USDA (U.S. Dept. of Agriculture) The USDA guarantees loans made by private sector lenders to purchasers of property in certain rural areas. If you are purchasing in these speciﬁc areas, often the USDA offers the best programs available to home buyers. VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) The VA guarantees loans to veterans, and help protect lenders against losses resulting from veteran borrower default.

Hopefully these terms will be more familiar to you next time you see them. Still have questions? Thinking about buying or selling? Call us here at Team Wainoris: we are here to help you! BRING THE BOAT!!

Beautiful waterfront 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home with ﬁshing pier and boat ramp. Huge wooden screened deck off of master. Great location on Lake Parker. Just $247,000.

BUILDING LOTS!

Let us help you build your dreams! Beautiful one acre lot in established neighborhood off Knights Grifﬁn, near 39, just $76,900. One acre building lots in North Lakeland: Dove Meadow Trail $39,000, Brookridge Trail $49,000. Call today!

*Please consult your tax advisor for your individual tax considerations.

Exit Realty is Growing WWW.TEAMWAINORIS.COM foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

sports GOLF

Opening eyes on the golf course Durant’s Erika Wardzinski’s results speak for themselves. S to r y by J o e b o w l e s

After a brief conversation with Erika Wardzinski, one leaves with the thought that this little dynamo can do just about anything she sets her mind to. So far, few would disagree with that assessment. At 5’6” and 114 pounds, Wardzinski doesn’t look like the typical jock, but looks mean nothing when she tees it up. She has fun, but she is also a f ierce competitor and the results speak for themselves. Wardzinski, a junior at Durant High School, began playing golf with her father, Elmer, when she was a preschooler. She entered her f irst competition at the age of 7 in the First Tee program. The rest, as they say, is history. Last year, Erika was a First Team All-County selection after helping lead the Cougars to a fourth-place f inish in the 2A state tournament. She shot a 73 in both the district and regional competitions leading up to state. This year she has kept up the pace by scoring rounds of 40, 40, 39, 36, 38 and 38 through six dual matches in the nine-hole high school format. Wardzinski along with Madison Opfer (First Team All-County) and Kerri Reinhardt (Honorable Mention All-County) lead a Cougar team that are favorites to repeat as district and regional champions, and some believe they have the talent to win it all at the state tournament. Erika attributes her success to her short game, “I can hit a driver 220 yards, but I love my f ivewood. It’s my bread and butter. I can work it real well. I’m better at my short game though. I would say that I’m an alright putter, but I’m better at chipping. I have a cut

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

down six-iron that I use. I’ve had it for years. I’m best with that.” She is not only good with a cut down six-iron in her hand, but she also does pretty well with a tennis racket too. Last year she was Durant’s No. 4 player as a sophomore. This year she expects to be either No. 2 or 3. I also need to mention that she led the Cougars last year in assists on the volleyball court. In fact, she and Reinhardt work their golf schedule around their volleyball schedule. Occasionally they run from the golf course to the gym, just in time for their games. Wardzinski has played golf every where. She has played in junior tour events from Texas to Kentucky to Florida. She amazes most when they f ind out that she is self-taught. She has never had formal lessons. She reads a lot and sometimes will accept advice, but she generally works out the “kinks” that she encounters on her own. Erika would like to play golf in college or even become a professional, but she acknowledges how diff icult that can be. “My favorite moment in golf,” Erika thought out loud, “was trying out for the women’s qualif ier for the U.S. Open this year. It really let me know how hard it is to be a pro. I really had my eyes opened.” Wardzinski, however, is opening everyone else’s eyes, as her game continues to improve. For the present, she is having fun and working on raising her GPA above 3.5. In a couple of years, she wants to join her friends at the University of Florida. There might be an opening on the Gators’ golf team that she can f ill… before she turns pro.

Erika was a First Team All-County selection after helping lead the Cougars to a fourth-place finish in the 2A state tournament. Photo by Joe Bowles

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sports

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Jeffrey Hall

Haylee Dietrich

S to r y by J o e b o w l e S

S t o r y by J o e b o w l e S

To say that Jeffrey Hall was initially disappointed when he realized that he would have to leave Plant City High School was an understatement. Now, however, his enrollment at the area’s newest high school, Strawberry Crest, feels “right” to him. “At first, I wanted to stay at Plant City,” said Hall, “but now I feel at home at Strawberry Crest. I love it. I feel like it’s a new beginning for me.” Jeffrey, son of Skip and Jackie Hall, played on the Raiders’ baseball team last year as a sophomore and was expected to be one of the leaders on the diamond this year. Instead, he will be a part of history for the Chargers as a two-sport athlete adding football to his resume in the school’s first season. Prior to the first day of school, Hall played baseball for the Chargers in a summer instructional league

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

and is slated to be the team’s starting third baseman in the spring. He also attended a summer football camp at the University of South Florida while hitting the weights, adding 10 pounds of muscle to his six-foot frame to reach his playing weight of 175 pounds. This is Jeff rey’s first year of varsity football, and he is taking advantage of the opportunity as the team’s starting wide receiver. The Chargers play a schedule against other first year schools and existing junior varsity programs, due to the fact that the school has no seniors in its first year of existence. His goal is to lead the team in touchdowns this year. Hall is also involved in the Leo Club and the Future Farmers of America. He hopes to attend the University of Georgia after graduation and major in agriculture.

Haylee Dietrich maybe one of the busiest seniors at Plant City High School. She is treasurer of her senior class, secretary of the civinettes, secretary of the National Honor Society, reporter for the Student Council and secretary of the Best Buddies program. She does all of this while taking Advanced Placement classes and playing two sports, volleyball and softball. Oh, did I mention that she loves to surf in her spare time? Haylee, daughter of Darren and Misti Dietrich, is presently a defensive specialist on the Raiders’ volleyball team. She has played all four years in high school but this year promises to be the most successful season of all. So far, the team is 8-3, nearly tripling last year’s win total and the season is

just getting started. Th is will be Dietrich fourth year on the Raiders’ softball team as well. Last year she was the starting left fielder and this year she will be the only senior on the Raiders’ softball team. After a successful junior season, (.270 batting average that included a home run and three triples) her leadership this year will be needed on a very talented team made up of mostly underclassmen. Haylee’s future includes a career in nursing, “Following graduation, I would like to major in health science at University of Central Florida or the University of South Florida. I want to eventually get my master’s degree and become a nurse practitioner.”

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

sports baseball

2418 James L Redman Pkwy, Plant City (813) 757-0300

Starting early Raiders’ travel baseball begins at a young age. S to r y by J o e B o w l e s

At the conclusion of the 2008 Little League baseball season, the question for the parents of several talented 8-year-olds in Plant City was, “What’s next?” So, in late August, a try-out was held at Mike Sansone Park and a brand-new travel ball team was added to the stable of other Plant City Raider teams as the Raiders’ 8-year-old team was formed. For the Raiders 8U team, success came rather quickly in their first season of competition in the Amateur Athletic Union’s Sunshine League with a second-place finish in the entire state of Florida. This past January they were the guests at a banquet attended by more than 1,000 people in Orlando in which the leading teams in each age group were honored by the Sunshine League and its founder Chet Lemon, former Detroit Tigers all-star. “It was a really great experience. The boys all were excited about getting recognized in front of a large crowd, and you could see the delight in their eyes,” said team manager Steve Shissler. In the spring, the Raiders took up where they left off after the fall season with second place finishes in several tournaments while compiling a regular season mark of 10-4. After taking the summer off, they regrouped this fall with five original

october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

approach to the game. They have combined a mixture of teaching, discipline and fun that has been their recipe for success. For assistant coach James (Smitty) Smith, the benefits are numerous, “In travel ball we are able to take the boys that are more advanced and teach them more than just the fundamentals. They already understand the fundamentals, so we work on developing their skills and the mental part of the game.” Shissler adds, “The blessings of coaching center around preparing kids for real life. Baseball lends itself very well to teaching discipline and

finishing what you start. This is especially true when you see a child really ‘get it’ for the first time. Maybe they get their first hit or things begin to click for them while playing the field. These are the special times that teach kids to stick with it and never give up.” Raider team members include Austin Davis, Clay Adams, Travis Storey, Jacob Smith, Gustave Negrete, Grant Gifford, Cade Shissler, Parker Griffin, Josiah Lara, Casey Mawhinney, manager Steve Shissler and coaches James Smith, Tim Griffin and Michael Storey.

team members and five new players. They are now competing as 9-yearolds. Unlike other sports that have inspirational stories of youngsters who found success after taking up a sport in high school or college, this is not true in baseball. Shissler emphasized, “I think it’s necessary to start playing baseball at a young age because there are certain skills in baseball that take years to develop. It’s very rare for a player in high school, no matter how good of an athlete he is, to be able to pick up the game that late.” While there are many critics of travel ball for children at such an early age, the positive aspects far outweigh the negative. Those in charge must allow the children the freedom to have fun and to make sure that they are not contributing to burnout or injury by being overworked at a tender age. Shissler and his coaching staff seemed Raider team members include Austin Davis, Clay Adams, Travis Storey, Jacob Smith, Gustave Negrete, Grant to have the proper Gifford, Cade Shissler, Parker Griffin, Josiah Lara and Casey Mawhinney. Photo courtesy of Steve Shissler

HOPEWELL Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

People who make a difference Gerald Beaty has been a member of the Hopewell family since Jan. 2001. He was employed with AMAX Phosphate for 32 years and with Hillsborough County Road Department for 13 years. Gerald’s love of people drew him to Hopewell and he is an important member of our team. Gerald has been happily married to June Snellgrove Beaty for 53 years, and they have been active members of Plant City Church of Christ since 1953. Gerald is the father of two children, Keith Beaty and wife Tonya, and Polly Wiggins and husband, Joey. He is the proud, proud, grandfather of 2 grandchildren, Steven and Kayle Wiggins. Hopewell is very blessed to have Gerald as a part of our family.

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extra Seniors of the month

Kathleen Hencke and Aaron Sykes S to r y by C u r r i e D i c k e r s o n

Kathleen Hencke exhibits the character of a hard worker, one who excels in every aspect of her life. God has first priority in her life, followed by her family, but she also dedicates much of her time and energy to her academics. Her perseverance and dedication has shaped her into a strong, young woman and student. Currently ranked third in her senior class, Hencke holds a strong 6.24 weighted GPA, and a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA. She accomplished this feat by completing several advanced placement and duel-enrollment courses, where she earned college credit for each. This year holds no exception to her drive, as she balances six advanced placement classes, cheerleading and social life. Hencke, also gifted at cheerleading, has been on the Raider cheerleading squad since her freshman year, holding a position on the varsity squad her junior and senior years. She said her afternoons and Friday nights are spent “cheering our football team to victory,” as

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she demonstrates her true Raider spirit. Other aspects of Hencke’s life are her strong morals and upstanding values. She is an active member in the iWait club, where she emphasizes the importance of abstinence among young people. Hencke is also active in benefiting the community, realizing the priority of putting others before herself. This month she will participate in the Key Club Kick-Off Conference at Tampa Bay Tech High School. She also was involved recently in the Disney Race for the Taste. In past years, she has been engaged in a multitude of other community outreaches such as Plant City Church of God events and UNICEF. An uncommon goal that Hencke cherishes is to one day pursue a career in aeronautical engineering. Her love for space was born the first time she set foot on an airplane and experienced the power of the sky. One day she plans to fulfill this desire as an employee at either NASA, Boeing or Lockheed. Her ultimate goal is to revisit the

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wonder of the universe as a successful astronaut, uncovering new and exciting discoveries. With grace and poise, Hencke exhibits a young woman who clearly has it together. “Everything has a time and a place,” said Kathleen. She is confident of her dreams and goals in life, and has adequately prepared for the unknown road that lies ahead. The future will be an adventure and a challenge – one overflowing with amazing opportunities for Hencke. Aaron Sykes, a strong leader within Plant City High School and throughout the community, models the values held dear to the heart of a servant. Not only is he the president of Student Council, but Sykes also commits countless hours to caring for the community. He exhibits the true meaning of a leader: one who does not expect to gain any credit from serving others. Being in a position of authority at his high school, Sykes has learned what it truly means to lead. The responsibility has taught him how to deal with the stresses of governing a large body of people and effectively setting priorities in regards to getting plans accomplished. An important lesson he has learned through his experiences, Sykes said, is that “deadlines will come

and pass,” as he has grasped how to cope with difficult situations at times. After graduation, Sykes wants to pursue a career in politics, where his leadership abilities will be useful to his success. He desires to attend Howard University in Washington D.C., working toward a degree in political science and eventually becoming a strong influence in the governmental system. Sykes realizes that in order to lead, he must also give. Having more than 500 community service ours, he grasps this concept to be a truth in his life. “Most people see it as a job, but I see it as a recreational time,” said Sykes in regards to his abundance of involvement within the area. Sykes’ commitment ranges from school events such as pep rallies and homecoming, to Special Olympics and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Recently, he received the Anne Frank Humanitarian Award for his upstanding efforts. From swim team practice to student council meetings, Sykes dedicates time to important and essential activities in his life. A leader in and out of school, he demonstrates compassion throughout every aspect of his heart, and is confident as a leader in his ability to care for others.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

101

extra Al ruechel

“The bad guys sit in jail cells forgotten by time as if that’s enough punishment for their deeds. We always want to know the motive for their actions, but they never make sense.”

Remembering the heroes of the street S u b m i t t e d by a l r u e c h e l

It’s an image I will never forget: sitting on the anchor desk watching the funeral for Tampa police officer Michael Roberts. The silence on the screen told the story better than my own words. A small boy held in the arms of his mother, and a Tampa police officer, assisting as the lad helped light the candles for his father’s funeral. Only the members of the honor guard and the priests readying for the funeral participated in this intensely private moment – and the TV cameras. Michael Roberts widow, so bravely

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negotiating the ritual, was a pillar of strength as she placed a flower on her husband’s flag-draped coffin. These are the moments that transcend our daily routines and remind us of the preciousness of life and sacrificial giving. Most of us never knew Mike Roberts or his wife Cindy and their son. Yet, for that moment in time, Roberts represented every good deed ever performed by any cop in Any City, USA. This is the constant struggle between good and evil, life and death, the randomness of events that

take some men to their graves and let others escape for no particular reason. Why is it the good always seem to die young? The bad guys sit in jail cells forgotten by time as if that’s enough punishment for their deeds. We always want to know the motive for their actions, but they never make sense. Outside the church, hundreds of officers from all across the U.S. and even Canada were standing at attention. The heat stifling, the sweat rolling down their necks, their darkened sunglasses gleaming in the early afternoon sun. They do not move or talk to each other. Their silent attention is a testament to their respect and honor for their fallen comrade. Inside, during the service, honor guards around the coffin exchange places in slow motion. Their salutes appear to be frozen in time before the timelessness of eternity. Oh if he had been 10 minutes later, or if only he had some backup, or if only the bullet had traveled a couple of inches to the left or right. You ask yourselves these questions as if God had some spinning wheel that dictated the circumstances. It’s such a loss! Now the coffin moves to the hearse. The bag pipes! Oh the bag pipes! You see so many mouthing

the words to “Amazing Grace,” the drone of pipes pulling something deep within. I’ve given up trying to fight the tears – they are cleansing, they are healing, they are our soul’s gift to Mike’s memory. The 21-gun salute crackles through the air. The flag is meticulously folded and wrapped as it has been at hundreds of other ceremonies like this across America. Chief Hogue embraces the flag before he places it in Cindy’s outstretched arms. Then he embraces her – symbolic of the arms of the department that will now become her protectorate, not as a replacement for her beloved but now as a shield on which she may lean for additional strength. People will often ask me why we carry funerals on our air. The hundreds and hundreds of e-mails we receive are the answer. So many retired and current law enforcement officers and their families are grateful for the coverage. These are the true heroes in a world where that word is used far too often. Day in and day out they risk their lives for us. They don’t ask for thanks, but at least on this day – in some small way – we were able to say thank you Michael Roberts for sharing your life with us. God Bless you and your family forever.

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103

extra Derek maul

“There’s a sense in which all of creation – both human beings and the planet we live on - is loaded with a kind of anticipation, creation hoping that one day the people whom God created and charged with responsibility will finally ‘get it.’”

Redemption: it’s not just for church anymore! S u b m i t t e d by D e r e k M a u l

A few weeks ago I was asked to sit on the stage at a theater in Brandon, where I fielded questions from the audience after a production of “Children’s Letters to God.” There were five of us, all billed as public figures willing to talk about personal faith. The others introduced themselves by occupation and community involvement. “I’m a pastor...” “I work as a teacher...” “I’m on the board of the community foundation...” When it came my turn I said the following: “Good evening! My

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name is Derek Maul. My work involves listening to people and learning their stories. I collect stories; I try to understand what makes people tick. I’m especially interested in how our narrative - both personal and community – interfaces with “The Greatest Story Ever Told.” My work, indeed everything I do, is back-shadowed by faith. Let me explain: In the world of art, one interesting technique involves a deliberate “painting over” - one picture on top of the other. Here’s

how it works: The artist paints a portrait or a scene. Then, after the canvas dries, another image is applied on top. When the work is completed, the effect carries an emotional impact that transcends conventional applications. The technique is potent and resonant. Sometimes the under-painting is completely obscured; sometimes it can be easily detected. Everything that I write – books, blogs, articles, features or commentary - is back-shadowed by faith. Sometimes you can see it clearly; often it’s necessary to scratch at the surface; once in a while the story on top is absolutely all you can see. But, behind everything, my world-view is ultimately redemptive; grounded in hope and rooted in my commitment to follow Jesus. The world we live in is dangerously broken, but I believe in the power of redemption and of grace. Consequently - rather than criticism, judgment or condemnation - commentary in this space will reflect my interest in restoration and healing. There’s a sense in which all of creation – both human beings and the planet we live on - is loaded with a kind of anticipation, creation hoping that one day the people whom God created and charged with responsibility will finally “get it.” Here’s how Paul expressed the idea in Romans, chapter 8: 19-21 (CEV).

“All creation is eagerly waiting for God to show who his children are. Meanwhile, creation is confused, but not because it wants to be confused. God made it this way in the hope that creation would be set free from decay and would share in the glorious freedom of his children.” This truth is self evident in Florida. If we abuse the earth long enough, it fights back, and we all pay the price. Lost wetlands, pesticide misuse, antibiotic ridden meat, an exhausted aquifer, erosion - this list is extensive. I’m talking redemption, people, and it’s not just for church anymore. So here’s this month’s question: In what way is this community aligned with the impetus of redemption? In what ways do our choices as individuals, businesses and organizations bring hope and work toward a future that is good. What am I doing to facilitate wholeness, healing and reconciliation? Let me know what you think. I’d like to hear what you are up to. Grace and peace – DEREK MAUL

You can reach Derek Maul at Derekmaul@Gmail.com, or visit www.Derekmaul.net

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105

entertainment artist of the month

Gene Ferrari has a strong, enchanting voice. Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

Gene Ferrari

comes to Plant City

Gene Ferrari serenades a couple during a romantic dance. Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

S to r y by a a r o n o b e r l i n

Nightlife at the Red Rose Inn and Suites jumps every Friday and Saturday. With house band Destiny entertaining hungry patrons and dancing couples, the dining room at the Red Rose has built quite a buzz. With Destiny providing consistent, classy renditions of Billboard hits, Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr., the owners and general managers of the Red Rose Inn and Suites, sought to step the entertainment level up another notch. To do so, they hire acts to come and perform in between sets by Destiny. The acts range from cover bands – Jerry Lee Lewis, Blues Brothers and Tina Turner imitators – to Vegas-style grandeur. On Oct. 2 and 3, Mrs. Evelyn went all out by putting Gene Ferrari on the stage. Ferrari, who is also know as “the voice with a heart,” brought a level of singing that is rarely heard within the state. His Vegas-style quality took

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the crowd on a musical-rollercoaster ride as he serenaded listeners with hits by Nat King Cole, followed by an energetic performance of “Proud to be an American.” “I love patriotic songs. It’s a shame that some people seem to be embarrassed by a patriotic song,” Ferrari told the crowd after belting out the nationalistic song. “I don’t understand that.” Although Ferrari loves America, he hails from Italy. As a Sicilian refugee, he emigrated to the U.S. where he has been embraced as a gifted singer known for his charm. Cracking a few jokes in between songs on the Red Rose stage, it is clear to see why he has developed a reputation as a must-see entertainer. Gene Ferrari will perform at the Red Rose again in November. For exact times and dates, call 813-7523141.

Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. bring high-class entertainment to Plant City every week. Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

107

entertainment artist of the month

Beverly Farley holds up one of her pieces. Photo by Suzanne Gallagher

Artist makes full circle back to Plant City S to r y by H e at h e r D av i e s

Although born and raised in Plant City, artist Beverly Farley has had to live and work elsewhere, from Lakeland to more recently Winter Haven. But new developments in downtown Plant City have brought her back to her roots and back home again. Beverly has always been a lover and creator of art, beginning as a young child who loved to draw and paint, and continuing on as a student at Tomlin Middle School where she was encouraged by her art teacher. While in school, she loved art classes so much that she would take all of her required classes throughout the summer so as to have more time to dedicate to art classes throughout the school year. Eventually, Beverly moved to Lakeland where she finished out her high school years taking art classes at Harrison School of Arts. She

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has continued taking art classes at Polk Community College, working her way toward an art degree while maintaining a career. What is it that has brought Beverly back home to Plant City? A core group of Plant City artists who are working together to create an art gallery known as the Art Lounge Gallery, located in downtown Plant City. Upon meeting the group of artists, Beverly expressed how she was drawn to their energy and unity. She knew she had finally found her place amongst fellow artists. Upon the opening of the gallery, Beverly was thrilled to find out she had sold a piece of art work on the first day. She has expressed that as an artist seeing other people enjoy her work is what brings her fulfillment, as well as a sense of accomplishment and pride. Being back home in Plant City

among fellow friends, artists and art lovers can only make that feeling of accomplishment that much sweeter. For more information on Beverlyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art work or about upcoming classes,

she will be offering at the Art Lounge Gallery in oils and pastels. You may e-mail her at bfarley73@ yahoo.com.

Several of Farleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work are on display at the Art Lounge Gallery in downtown Plant City. Photo by Suzanne Gallagher

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dining profile

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s S to r y by W e n dy S . B r o w n

Beef ‘O’Brady’s started in 1985 in Brandon. Plant City has the second location, operating since 1990. There was never a plan to expand, but now there are more than 259 franchises across America from the east coast to the Midwest. When most people think of Beef ‘O’Brady’s, they think wings. But if the wings are so popular, then why is the word “beef ” first in its name? The restaurant, named ‘O’Brady’s after grandparents, was originally started as an Irish/English pub with great steaks and burgers, hence the reference to beef. Today, the most popular item is wings. The Plant City location goes through more than 30,000 wings a week. That’s a lot of chickens, which are fried in trans fat-free oil, and Beef ‘O’Brady’s offers 11 sauces to compliment them. The Watterson, a sandwich named after a customer, is the second most ordered menu item, and the third are the burgers. If burgers are what you crave, then try the Smokin’ Jack Sliders, three all-beef patties smothered in delicious toppings, for only $7.49. Specialty burgers are $5.79 for its classic quarter-pounder to $7.99 for the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger or Frisco Patty Melt. Burgers come with a choice of potato salad, mashed potatoes with Guinness gravy, pineapple coleslaw, chips, fries or broccoli. The wings and hamburger meat are always fresh, never frozen. The prices are right at Beef ‘O’Brady’s, and on Tuesday nights, kids eat free. Scott and Nancy Holmes come to Beef ‘O’ Brady’s at least once a week. They bring their grandchildren, who love the game room. According to Scott, “The atmosphere is a sports theme, the staff is just excellent and you can’t beat their excellent food.” There are specials around major

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sporting events. During the 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. happy hour, expect discounts on wings, drafts and bottles of beer. And, yes, this 140-seat restaurant is a family-style eatery catering to little leagues, school functions and family groups. Mr. Bullard brought a large group on a recent Wednesday night. He emphatically stated, “The waitresses and food are just great. Beef ’s is just a wonderful, family restaurant that loves all types of kids and groups.” Jim Mellody owns the Plant City Beef ‘O’Brady’s. He has an advertising degree from the University of South Florida and had a baseball scholarship. Loving sports of any kind, and his family being in the restaurant business, made a restaurant career a natural. Mellody loves the sporty and cheery atmosphere “Beef ’s” offers, saying, “My staff is the best ever. I’ve made great relationships with them over the last 20 years.” Jim’s dad’s dream was to have a neighborhood pub where all felt comfortable to bring their kids, and that’s exactly what it is. When you first walk in, you can’t help but notice the atmosphere,

Beef ‘O’Brady’s doesn’t just have sumptuous wings and burgers, it also serves large salads, steak dinners and this plate here: the Montana chicken dinner, which is enough to satisfy any large appetite.Photo by Aaron Oberlin

accentuated by flat-screen TV’s, sports memorabilia and smiling faces. When you take a seat, check out the Beef ’s starters, ranging from $3.19 for fries to $9.99 for a combo with chicken fingers, mozzarella planks, onion rings and cheesy quesadilla. For the main meal, there are baskets of fried shrimp, baby back ribs and chicken fingers if you’re not in the mood for a best-seller. Whatever it is you want, Beef ’s offers something for everyone, including a variety of wraps, specialty sandwiches and healthy salads. The Santa Fe chicken salad is served in a tortilla bowl while the Asian salad had grilled or fried chicken and juicy mandarin oranges. Beef O’Bradys is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and

The chicken wings at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s are nationally known. Photo by Aaron Oberlin

11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. It is located on Jim Redman Parkway behind Taco Bell. The children’s menu ranges from $2.99 to $3.99. Major credit cards accepted. Come visit Beef O’Brady’s. Every neighborhood should have one.

Beef ‘O’Brady’s 2418 Jim Redman Pkwy (813) 757-0300 (813) 757-0254 (fax) Hours 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., Monday to Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Sunday Children’s menu available Major credit cards accepted

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2009

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entertainment calendar ing adults, are $5 per person. The hours of operation are from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 813-752-2727.

oct. 16 Ralph Allocco and Second Wind are performing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites at 8 p.m. for a Las Vegas style show. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. A production of “I’m Getting Murdered in the Morning” is at the Florida National Guard Armory, 4004 Airport Road. Doors open at 6 p.m., and dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., followed by the performance at 7:30 p.m. It is $40 a person, including food, wine, beer, iced tea and coffee. Tickets are now on sale at Sunshine State Federal Savings, located at 102 W. Baker St., and the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites, located at 2102 N. Park Road. For more information, call Pat Eifler at 813-267-0593.

oct. 17 Lola and the Saints with PJ Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds are performing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 7523141 for more information. A production of “I’m Getting Murdered in the Morning” is at the Florida National Guard Armory, 4004 Airport Road. Doors open at 6 p.m., and dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., followed by the performance at 7:30 p.m. It is $40 a person, including food, wine, beer, iced tea and coffee. Tickets are now on sale at Sunshine State Federal Savings, located at 102 W. Baker St., and the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites, located at 2102 N. Park Road. For more information, call Pat Eifler at 813-267-0593. The Strawberry Classic Car Show is in downtown Plant City from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Call the Plant City

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Chamber of Commerce at 813-7543707 for more information.

oct. 22 Dunn Chiropractic and Remedi Spa host a 10th anniversary celebration from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at Dunn Chiropractic and Remedi Spa, located at 1701 S. Alexander St. The public is invited to enjoy a festive evening featuring appetizers, assorted beverages, tours and sample mini spa treatments and products. Guests can register for door prizes, including skin care products and spa packages. It is free. Call 813-752-2440 for more information. The Plant City Photo Archives are hosting an open house from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. There are special exhibits and tours of the new facility, located at 106 S. Evers St. Enjoy wine, cheese and music. If possible, call 813-754-1578 to RSVP. The GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City is serving barbecue at the Historic Depot on Palmer Street. This is a takeout dinner that is packaged in a take-home package ready to enjoy. Pickup times are between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. For tickets and additional information, call Judy Glorioso at 813-757-6004 or Judy Zaring at 813-754-6340.

oct. 23 Charlie Vegas and the New Blues Combo are performing their authentic roadhouse music at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. Unity in the Community has a haunted house located on Highway 39, one-half mile north of Knights Griffin Road. Children under 7 are free, all others, includ-

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce presents its second annual Monster Mash at 8 p.m. at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. Costumes are encouraged with prizes awarded for the Most Original, Scariest, Funniest, Best Couple and Best Overall. In addition there is a pumpkin-carving contest. Tickets are $65 per person or $125 per couple. Call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 by Oct. 21 to reserve your spot.

oct. 24 Ralph Allocco and Second Wind are performing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites at 8 p.m. for a Las Vegas style show. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. Unity in the Community has a haunted house located on Highway 39, one-half mile north of Knights Griffin Road. Children under 7 are free, all others, including adults, are $5 per person. The hours of operation are from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 813-752-2727.

oct. 29 The Greater Plant City Chamber’s of Commerce Business After Hours is at Crawford-Hill Interior Designs, Inc., located at 1407 E. Baker St., from 5:15 p.m. to 7p.m. Call 813-754-3707 to RSVP. Admission is free.

oct. 30 Unity in the Community has a haunted house located on Highway 39, one-half mile north of Knights Griffin Road. Children under 7 are free, all others, including adults, are $5 per person. The hours of operation are from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 813-752-2727.

oct. 31 P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds along with Johnny Thunder plus a Halloween Costume Party in the Ballroom are at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information.

Ralph Allocco and Second Wind are performing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites at 8 p.m. for a Las Vegas style show. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. Unity in the Community has a haunted house located on Highway 39, one-half mile north of Knights Griffin Road. Children under 7 are free, all others, including adults, are $5 per person. The hours of operation are from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 813-752-2727. The first Dog Park Halloween Party is at the Walden Lake Dog Park, located on the corer of West Timberlane Drive and Griffen Boulevard, from 10 a.m. to noon. Come join Bethany Baptist Church for its fall festival from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be rides, games, food and fun. Call 813-752-9209 for more information.

nov. 2 The Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City is holding its annual Celebration of Life banquet at the Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College. Call 813-759-0886 for information and tickets.

nov. 5 The Greater Plant City Chamber’s Economic Development Council holds the 2009 Business of the Year Awards Banquet at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. Ten businesses have been nominated in four different categories. Call the Chamber office for information

entertainment calendar

and tickets at 813-754-3707.

nov. 6 The second annual Dancing with the Locals, sponsored by the Plant City Noon Rotary Club, is at 6:30 p.m. at the Red Rose Inn and Suites in the ballroom. For more information, call Event Chairman Billy Keel at 813-478-1290. Proceeds benefit local charities. Charlie Vegas and the New Blues Combo are performing their authentic roadhouse music at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. A production of “Love, Sex and the I.R.S.” is scheduled. More information has yet to be determined. For more information, visit www. plantcityentertainment.com.

nov. 7 A “Stayin’ Alive Show” with Reflections of The BeeGees and a Night of Disco Fever, plus English Comedian Barry St. Ives, are performing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 7523141 for more information. Ralph Allocco and Second Wind are performing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites at 8 p.m. for a Las Vegas style show. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. The 100-target skeet shoot and barbecue to benefit Unity in the Community is at Teneroc Shooting Sports, located at 3755 Tenoroc Mine Road, in Lakeland. For more information, log onto www. tenoroc.us. Or call Joyce at 813752-1275 or Linda at 813-752-2727.

Bike Fest is in downtown Plant City from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Call the Plant City Chamber of Commerce at 813754-3707 for more information. A production of “Love, Sex and the I.R.S.” is scheduled. More information has yet to be determined. For more information, visit www. plantcityentertainment.com.

nov. 11

Plant City’s annual Pioneer Day is at the 1914 High School.

Connor at (813) 478-1474 for more information.

mondays

wednesdays

Dancer Susan Staton is giving dance lessons from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. Cost is $10 per person. Call (863) 604-5060 to schedule a session. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 7523141 for more information.

Come to the Red Rose Inn and Suites for a prime rib and seafood buffet and enjoy live music. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information.

The Plant City Garden Club meets at 10 a.m. on the second Monday of every month. For meeting location, call Cassandra Banning at (813) 759-1638.

The Plant City Chamber’s of Commerce monthly Contact Breakfast is at the Red Rose Ballroom at 7:30 a.m. The guest speaker is Rob Turner, Hillsborough County property appraiser. Call the Chamber at 813-754-3707 for more information.

American Business Women’s Association has a meeting at 11:45 a.m. on the last Monday of every month at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, which is located at 1205 Townsgate Court. For more information, call Annie Carapezza at (813) 7071221.

nov. 13

East Hillsborough Art Guild has a meeting at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of every month. It is in sanction with the GFWC Woman’s Club, which is located at 1110 N. Wheeler St. Call Leo Watson at (813) 7196533 for more information.

Charlie Vegas and the New Blues Combo are performing their authentic roadhouse music at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. A production of “Love, Sex and the I.R.S.” is scheduled. More information has yet to be determined. For more information, visit www. plantcityentertainment.com.

nov. 14 Ralph Allocco and Second Wind are performing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites at 8 p.m. for a Las Vegas style show. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. A production of “Love, Sex and the I.R.S.” is scheduled. More information has yet to be determined. For more information, visit www. plantcityentertainment.com.

tuesdays Arts Council of Plant City meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month, September through May. Meeting is in the Chamber of Commerce Public Meeting Room at 106 N. Evers St. Call Maggie Carlisle at (813) 752-6133. Come to the Red Rose Inn and Suites for a prime rib and seafood buffet and enjoy live music. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City meets at 10:30 a.m. on second Tuesday of every month at the GFWC Clubhouse, which is located at 1110 N. Wheeler St. Call Lynn

HR Plant City meets at noon on the third Wednesday of every month at the Red Rose Inn and Suites, which is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call Janet Kelly at (813) 7545997 for more information. The Improvement League of Plant City meets at 7 p.m. on the third Wednesday of every month at 911 E. Warren St. Call Henry Johnson at (813) 767-4374 for more information.

thursdays The Red Rose Inn and Suites is hosting Singles Night Out beginning at 5:30 p.m. The event includes happy hour, a dance contest, music and more. The Red Rose is located at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-3141 for more information. GFWC Plant City Juniorettes, which is for girls ages 12 through 18, meet at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month. The GFWC Clubhouse is at 1110 N. Wheeler St. Call Nia Ramo at (813) 754-2916 for more information. Toastmasters International meets at 7:30 a.m. every Thursday at the Chamber of Commerce Public Meeting Room, which is at 106 N. Evers St. Call Stan Reynolds at (813) 309-0269 for more information. Plant City Federated Republican Women’s Club meets at 6 p.m. on the second Thursday of every month at the Red Rose Inn and Suites, which is at 2011 N. Wheeler St. Call Diane MartinJohnson at 813-986-4554 for more information.

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entertainment crossword H E L L O

S R A S

E D I E

R I B S

G O A T

A S T A

V O C A B O O L A R Y I T C H

B E A R A C A R T E N

A R M A I I B O B O B I O O O F T A I R S F A T U E L T C A S I D U T S N E S D L A L O M I O N E N S

C O N S T H A I N T T T R O O T M E E B T R A I R D A L

B E A D O R N A O R A T D O M E O R E I S B R P R D E A F I N A R T B E G O WA O O L L O R E O L D U E W S C A C O L P O L L I N T E T E S T

S T E E S T E B E A O E R O M L B E C L V E A A L S R T D S P U F A C I S C B U O M O B L S A

L O O P

A M O R E

G R R A A F N T T B H O E A A T L L T I I L N T

A B T O N L O A T T I E M O V E O N E S R N N I E S E V A B R E W O E S S O I C O N L O B O L O I N O T T O N D L I Q U E T E A D S D D A

Ghostwriting

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Ghostwriting P r o v i d e d by C a lv i n & J a c k i e M at h e w s

GHOSTWRITING ACROSS 1. Put up with 5. Rosary parts 10. Clutch 14. Jesus’ language 17. Fancy 19. Tell the misdeeds of 21. Ghost’s deer? 22. Gets up on a soapbox 23. Drifting 25. Two fins 26. __ voyage 27. Rounded roof 28. Temporary shelter 30. Formal wear item 31. Short life stories 32. Uranium or gold 33. Outscore 34. Shift positions 35. Exchange fee 38. Pronoun 40. __ War (18991902) 41. Clavicles, e.g. 42. Explorer Hernando de __ 43. Average 44. Formal dance 45. Antler 46. Skill in dealing with people 47. Crawling thing 48. Distribute 52 49. Caps 52. __ for; craving 54. Eur. nation 55. Dazzling effect 57. __ Perón 58. Heavy 59. Sour 60. Meat 61. Prepare ale 62. Musical variety show 65. Garment 66. Measures: abbr. 67. Fertile loam 68. Singer Billy 69. Oz visitor 70. Toad’s feature 71. Uncle Juan 72. Pen name 73. Oval gem 74. Obsolete 75. Nature’s second most abundant element 79. Coast 81. Knowledge 83. Punch line, sometimes 84. Wolf 85. Exceptions 86. Daring 87. In __; actually 88. Cut of meat 89. Sparkled 91. Exam answer 92. Cheese source: abbr.

93. 94. 95. 96. 97. 100. 101. 102. 103. 104. 107. 109. 111. 113. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118.

Dog in “Beetle Bailey” Cars of the past Raised platform Public vehicle __ Bator Everybody Grease Wyo.’s neighbor May honoree Mid-6th-century date Winter Olympics event Handsome man Ghost’s floral arrangement? Equatorial constellation Part of a door frame Jelly and jam Longings Seed covering Icelandic literary work

DOWN 1. Spot for a Scottish herd 2. Merit 3. Foreign friend 4. Religious title 5. Ghost’s bedroom? 6. Goofs 7. “What’s in __?” 8. Fruit 9. __. Bernadette 10. Give 11. Simplest of watercraft 1

by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 18. 20. 24. 29. 31. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 39 40. 41. 43. 44. 45. 48. 49. 50. 51. 53. 54. 56. 59. 61. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66.

5 15

106. 108. 110. 112.

10 18

85 90

100

101 108 113

102 109

110

114 116

104

105

106

92 96

107

74 81

50 57

49 56

30 34

13 20

Diamond __ Small amounts Dictionary entry Coloring Refer to Yields Eccentric fellow News item Prohibition Basks Grand __ Opry Family members Of a wedding Part of a ghost’s leg? Majorca Mmes. Greeting Sailor: colloq. “Plastic” holder Condemns Young animals Noose Italian passion Crazy person Geometric shape Two together Spartan queen of myth Common contraction Whopper Tip upside-down That which was to be demonstrated: abbr.

89. 90. 91. 92. 95. 96. 98. 99. 101. 102. 104. 105.

67. 69. 70. 71. 73. 75. 76. 77. 78. 80. 82. 83. 86. 87.

Lisbon’s ocean: abbr. Ghost’s carnation? Pretense M Nonstop Value highly Innocent Tiger’s needs Anvil’s site Lovely, to a ghost? Ghost’s street? A.M. Nick & Nora Charles’ dog Paper eater Mosquito bite result Smack Undergarment Barge Hurriedly Confined Restore to health Dreadful French literary hero Gil Arden and others Cutters Actress Charlotte Wonderful, to a ghost? Gaelic speaker Carry Ghost’s soup? Teases __ Adams Ghost’s list of words? Capital city Wind

93 97

103 111

112

115 117

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v ’ e e w r s e r p a r e e y s e 5 n 4 ted r o F fine companies like Tom Poppell at the original location, circa 1964

“Thank you Plant City” In 1964 Tom Poppell started Poppell Insurance in a small house on MLK (formerly Haines St). Decades later his two sons, Jon and Mark Poppell, have continued to serve the Plant City community. They know the only reason they have been here for 45 years is because of the support from this wonderful community, and for that they are truly thankful.

Tom and Eleanor Poppell with sons Jon and Mark, circa 1969

Walden Lakes Poppell Ins.

13209 Byrd Drive, Odessa, FL 33556 813.926.8500 • Fax: 813.926.3075 w w w. D e s i g n e r G o l f C o . c o m

Poppell Insurance location circa 1970

503 W. Martin Luther King Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 www.poppellinsurance.com

Poppell Insurance today

INSURANCE INC. FOR ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS

Since 1964

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october 2009 thefocusmagazine.com

813-752-4155 www.PoppellInsurance.com

813-752-4155

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Two Convenient Locations 2309 W. Reynolds Street, Plant City 813-759-9474 515 Corner Street, Brandon 813-681-9473

Dr. Derek M. Busciglio Dr. John A. Busciglio LICEnSEd OrTHOdOnTIC SPECIALISTS

www.TheOrthoDoc.com

813-707-1221

813-719-9460

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Swimming Pools & Spas

Additions Chris, Annie & Jimmy Carapezza

www.cfchinc.com Builder License #CBC-059203

Family Owned & Operated Since 1985 Roofing License #CCC-057919

www.truebluepoolcompany.com Swimming Pool License #CPC-057274