FOCUS Plant City 24-03

By Cierra Craft

By Cierra Craft

By Cierra Craft

From The Publisher

IT’S ABOUT YOU: YEAR 24

Twenty-four years ago, I moved from Tampa to Plant City to create a publication that truly reflected the community, with positive community news and feel-good stories. Last month, FOCUS Magazine celebrated its 24th anniversary, and I’m reflecting on all that has happened throughout our history.

We’ve featured 24 Strawberry Queens on the cover of the February issue, honored our veterans and first responders, and showcased the achievements of our youth. I remember my first clients, Mac McGrath, Davie Miles, and Aaron Davis, and our journey from the Arcade Building to J. Arden Mays Boulevard before settling in on MLK Boulevard. The launch of FOCUSTV in 2008 was massive for the company as we continued to find ways to evolve. Who could forget when we placed a copy in the 2010 Eternal Time Capsule? The capsule is in the park next to the Whistle Stop Cafe and will be opened on the city’s 200th anniversary in 2085. In 2019, we launched a re-brand with a new logo, and the future is bright for FOCUS Magazine.

We’ve adapted to the changing media landscape, embracing digital strategies, but our core mission remains the same. We’re committed to providing positive community news, sharing unique stories, and supporting local businesses.

Your support as readers, along with the unwavering partnership of our advertisers, has made these past twenty-four years possible. I want to thank the staff for their dedication to making each issue the best it can be: Candy Owens, office manager; Anthony Sassano, production director; Tony Devane, distribution manager; Cierra Craft, managing editor; and our writers and contributors.

In this issue, we celebrate 60 Readers’ Choice Award winners, highlighting The Barber Company on the front cover and the other 59 winners in this month’s feature. Congrats to each of these business owners! Also inside, you’ll find complete coverage of the 2025 Strawberry Festival.

FOCUS will continue to evolve, but we’ll always stay true to what makes FOCUS unique: our dedication to Plant City. Here’s to many more years of sharing our community’s stories.

With gratitude and hope,

Mike Floyd

Did you know that in March 2017

The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was signed?

You are Invited to the 2nd Annual

Welc ome Ho me e and BIG Thank You to V ietnam Veterans

All Veterans are welcome! Veterans honoring Veterans

Saturday, March 29, 2025 10:00 AM

Ve terans Park 703 N Wheele r St Pl ant Cit y Sponsored by…

P lant City Elks L odge

The Plan t City Arme d Forc es Memorial Founda ti on, American Legi on, AMV ETS

P lant City Republican W omen

Her oes Heart In c

FREE Lunch of hot dogs, chips & water will be served

All Veterans are encouraged to wear their uniforms!

Plant City History & Photo Archives to Host History, Whiskey, & Wine

By Cierra Craft

The Plant City History & Photo Archives is turning 25 this year and celebrating its anniversary with a community event called History, Whiskey & Wine. The event takes place on Saturday, March 22, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“We invite the entire Plant City Community to join us for a free street festival that will take place on S. Evers Street in the downtown Historic District of Plant City,” said The Plant City History & Photo Archives’ Community Outreach Manager, Libby Hopkins. “There will also be a ticketed event taking place inside The Archives, and it will feature samplings of local whiskeys, wines, beers, and other libations, as well as food samplings from local restaurants.”

As mentioned, the street festival is free to attend. Tickets for samplings are $50, and guests must be 21 and up to purchase the sampling tickets. Street Vendor/Food Truck fees are $25 and can be purchased by calling The Archives at 813-754-1578.

For more information, contact Libby Hopkins, the Archives’ Community Outreach Manager, at 813-754-1578 or libby@plantcityphotoarchives.org. The Plant City History & Photo Archives is located at 106 S. Evers Street.

YOU ARE TRULY A RAY OF SUNSHINE!

FOCUS

Community CHECK IN WITH PLANT CITY

City of Plant City Municipal Election:

April 8

By Cierra Craft

In a world where national politics dominate the headlines, it’s crucial to remember the significant impact of local elections. Plant City voters will have a vital opportunity to shape their community’s future at the ballot box this April.

On the Ballot:

There will be one race on the ballot. Candidates Camryn Henry and Jason Jones are running for City Commissioner, Group 2.

Plant City commissioners serve three-year terms. According to the city’s website, as of October 2024, the City Commissioner’s Yearly Salary is $9,741.59.

Jason Jones is a University of Kentucky graduate with a bachelor’s in administration and marketing. He joined the City of Plant City Commission in 2022. He owns Advantage Restoration and Contracting, founded 19 years ago. The company offers remodeling, reconstruction, and restoration of homes and businesses damaged by fire, smoke, water, and mold. Before joining the commission, Jones played an active role in the Plant City Chamber and the Plant City Family YMCA Board of Directors. Jones founded the city’s first Youth Leadership Commission in 2023.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister endorses Jones.

To learn more about Jason Jones, visit his campaign website at www.votejasonjones.com

Camryn Henry graduated from the University of South Florida with a bachelor’s degree in public health. According to her website, she runs on a platform with three pillars: families, farmers, and first responders. Henry says, “As our city expands, we must balance progress with preservation— protecting our agricultural roots, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the quality of life for our families.”

Henry has the endorsement of the Plant City Local Professional Firefighters 2103.

To learn more about Camryn Henry, visit her campaign website at camryhenry4pc.squarespace. com

Who Can Vote:

Only registered voters who live within the city limits of the City of Plant City are eligible to vote in this election. The deadline to register to vote in this election (if not already registered) is March 10. Those who are already registered to vote in Florida can update their name or address at any time.

How to Vote:

Voters have three options for voting – Vote By Mail, Early Voting or Election Day voting.

• Vote By Mail: Vote By Mail ballot requests expire after every General Election. Voters have until 5:00 p.m. March 27 to request a mail ballot for the Plant City election. Today, ballots were mailed to 156 Plant City voters who have already requested a ballot for this election. Voters can call (813) 744-5900 or visit Vote Hillsborough.gov to request a mail ballot. They will need to provide their Florida driver’s license number, Florida ID number or the last four digits of their social security number when making the request.

• Early Voting: Early Voting will take place at Plant City’s City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds Street, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5. Voters can also drop their mail ballot off at a Secure Ballot Intake Station at this site during Early Voting.

• Election Day: Election Day is Tuesday, April 8, 2025. All precincts will vote at Plant City’s City Hall, and voting will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. On Election Day, Vote By Mail ballots must be delivered to the Supervisor of Elections Office. They cannot be accepted at the Election Day polling place.

For more information about the election or voter status, visit VoteHillsborough.org.

Trinkle Redman, P.A.

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To learn more, make an appointment at a branch, call 1.888.in.a.snap or visit regions.com/amazingrate. Plant City Branch 2303 Thonotosassa

Dessert

WINNER

Community CHECK IN WITH PLANT CITY

Chamber Leadership Class Experiences Media & Tourism Day

By Cierra Craft

On Tuesday, March 11, the Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Leadership Class visited several local media outlets and tourism spots throughout the city. The experience allows participants to meet and exchange ideas with each other and existing community leaders to learn from the backgrounds and perspectives of one another.

This year, the Chamber Leadership Class made seven stops: McIntosh Preserve, Plant City Tennis Center, Parkesdale Market, FOCUS Magazine, Dinosaur World, Plant City Observer, and the Downtown Scavenger Hunt. They then enjoyed a social hour at Stage 201.

FOCUS Editor Cierra Craft met the Leadership Class at the Plant City Economic Development

Center for a discussion and lunch by Publix Supermarkets, Inc. The group discussed the magazine’s history, the steps to developing editorial content for each issue of FOCUS, and the monthly distribution of its 10,000 magazines.

The group discussed how editorial and advertising, while having different functions, together can lead to increased brand awareness or event exposure.

“The key to a successful advertising campaign is repeated exposure and consistency,” said Craft. “The ‘Rule of 7’ in marketing suggests a potential customer needs to see a brand’s message at least seven times before they are likely to make a purchase…”

The group discussed developing an effective advertising campaign for their respective businesses, non-profits, churches, or schools using print marketing materials such as business cards, banners, mailers, door hangers, and more. FOCUS’ sister company, TURFBrands, prints these items for thousands of customers in the U.S. and Canada.

“What I hope you take away from this discussion, no matter how you choose to market your business or charity, is the importance of print marketing, especially at a local level like FOCUS,” said Craft. “You will not find a more hyperlocalized marketing means than this magazine.”

Community

Local U-Pick Farms: Strawberries, Blueberries & More

By Cierra Craft

This is not a complete list. Dates and times change daily, and farms open depending on the weather. We strongly suggest you check websites or Facebook or call ahead the day of your visit to confirm availability, prices, and hours. Even if our list says a farm is open, check before you go! We may also have missed an opening announcement, so if you have a favorite farm, check to see if it is open.

Fancy Farms

While the Grooms family is renowned for its Fancy Farms Market on Drane Field Road, strawberry u-picks are not held at the market but rather one of the farms’ other properties. Call (813) 478-3486 to inquire for dates in March and April. Fancy Farms Market will host flower picking, which typically begins in May.

5204 Drane Field Rd, Lakeland FL 33811

Keel Farms

Keel Farms has produced award winning wines since 2003. The farm does host strawberry u-picks throughout March and blueberry u-pick every weekend in April as part of the farm’s annual Blueberry Festival. Call (813) 752-9100 for more information.

5202 Thonotosassa Rd, Plant City FL 33565

Berry Sweet Acres

Located on U.S 92, strawberry season is still going strong at Berry Sweet Acres with 1 pound of strawberries for $4. Call (813) 441-4993 to inquire about upcoming u-pick dates. 5621 W US Highway 92, Plant City, FL

Sanchez Farms Santa Maria Tepos LLC

Located on Branch Forbes Road, Sanchez Farms Santa Maria Tepos is hosting strawberry u-pick and fresh flower picking with varieties such as Sunflowers, Ranunculus, Stock, Snapdragons, and Anemone. Visit their Facebook page, Sanchez Farms Santa Maria Tepos LLC, for more details. 1390 South Forbes Rd. Plant City, FL 33565

5K Farms

Located on Highway 60, 5K Farms offers strawberry U-picks for $2 per pound and finish your day in the field with fresh strawberry shortcake. 5K Farms can be reached at (813) 836-9526.

4410 Roebuck Road, Plant City, FL 33567

Bluebird Family Farms

At the time of publication, Bluebird Family Farms had yet to announce the opening date for u-pick fields in 2025, but typically, the farm is open late March through May for blueberry picking. Visit their website, bffberries.com, for information on the opening date.

7105 Kinard Road, Plant City, FL 33565

Lisa Kolakowski People of Plant City

By Cheryl Johnston

Lisa Kolakowski loves our Plant City community because of the “so many nice, helpful people, great friends, and her great Juniper Circle/Street neighbors” in Walden Lake Eastgate. She feels proud to have raised her three daughters here and loves calling GracePoint Plant City her church home.

To say Lisa is physically fit would be an understatement. As a personal trainer for the last 25 years at the YMCA, she leads weekly classes and helps several individual clients exercise to maintain their strength. For her personal fitness, she enjoys long bicycling adventures, dragon boat racing, and gardening.

On January 4, 2025, family and friends helped her honor the memory of her 67-year-old husband, Keith, who is now in heaven after being diagnosed with Frontal Temporal Degeneration at age 56. A highly regarded physical therapist and former U.S. Army Captain, he had also practiced at West Point.

Describe a little about your family and how you came to be in Plant City. I was born in Royal Oak, Michigan, and moved to Holiday Lake Estates in Pasco County with my mother after my parents divorced. Keith and I met in junior high school and graduated from Gulf Comprehensive High School in 1975. We lived in Germany during his years in the U.S. Army and then settled in Plant City where he established his physical therapy practice. During our 42 years of marriage, we raised three daughters – Lauren, Krysta, and Erika – and now have 4 grandchildren. I also have four cats, all of which were rescues.

How did your interest in physical training develop?

I’ve always enjoyed physical activity and trained in college. I am certified with the National Academy of Sport (NASM), the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA), Mad Dog Spinning, and TRX Suspension Training. From 1980 to 1983, I competed in bodybuilding events, finishing in the top 5 of the American Women’s Body Building competitions in 1980, 1981, and 1983 (I didn’t compete in 1982 because I blew my diet on our honeymoon). I am considered as a pioneer in the women’s bodybuilding sport and was invited to pose at other events. Once, I still managed to guest pose in South Carolina even after a 45-pound plate slid off the Olympic bar during a warm-up and landed across my foot. All three of my daughters ran track, and I helped coach the teams at their schools.

You’re a cyclist and dragonboat paddler, too, right?

Yes, both are great sports for building strength and stamina. Your limbs and lungs get a great workout. I’ve completed nine 400-500 mile BRAG rides (Bicycle Ride Across Georgia) and one in the hilly part of Iowa (RAG BRAI), from the Missouri River to the Mississippi River. Today, I teach a spinning class at the Plant City Y.

In 2013, Joyce Fornero invited me to a PanAm Dragon Boat training for a corporate team on the Hillsborough River. After two sessions, they asked if I’d row with their team. We practice regularly, starting at Rick’s on the River, and competed recently in Puerto Rico. Next up is a race in Inverness. Our boat has 20 paddlers, a steersman at the rear, and a drummer up front during races. During long practices and depending on race length, we row at 60-80 strokes per minute.

Any suggestions for making our world a better place?

Treat each other with kindness. A favorite song on my playlist is “We All Are One” by Jimmy Cliff, and it’s a great reminder that we’re one race, created by the one and only God. Kindness can bring unity.

Abundant Gardens & Trinity Exotics

2678 N. Alexander St. 1/4 Mile North of I-4

Orchids & House Plants

Not Always So Dry

Writers in Residence Program, Huang History Center Plant City Photo Archives, Inc.(dba Plant City History & Photo Archives)

The history of alcohol use and control of its production, sale, and use in Plant City is a complex story of government control and the struggle between the “wets” and the “drys.” After the founding of the new country, Americans made and used various alcohol products controlled basically by their social and religious principles. The federal government first involved itself in 1791 by taxing domestically produced distilled spirits, resulting in the farmers’ opposition to the tax known as the Whiskey Rebellion.

Many organizations formed to promote the banning of alcohol consumption. Massachusetts prohibited alcohol in 1838, Maine in 1846 and 1851, and Kansas in 1881. Formed in 1873 and later under the leadership of Frances Willard in 1879, the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union

(WCTU) expanded as the largest prohibition organization in the country. The Anti-Saloon League formed in 1893, and other groups promoted prohibition and opposition to the use of tobacco. The Plant City WCTU formed in 1907 and hosted the state convention in 1909. To promote drinking water rather than beer or alcohol, the WCTU installed water fountains on select corners in downtown Plant City. A relic of that can be seen on display in a shelter on the NW corner of Collins Street and Herring Street.

With the State of Florida voting to allow options, the counties began voting for or against prohibition. In December 1914 precincts in Plant City voted against but were outvoted by most of the other precincts. R. L. Sparkman, a liquor dealer (The Tampa Times December 18, 1914) appealed the denial of his license, and the issue

was headed to the State Supreme Court. At the time R. L. Sparkman and E. W. Parramoure owned the Anheuser-Busch bar at the SW corner of Collins Street and Haines Street. There was an assortment of bars, also known as saloons at the time, in the small City of Plant City. On December 22, 1914, the Gainesville Sun carried this statement: “According to the State law relating to local option Plant City will now be able to close the seven saloons which exist there at present.” Despite this, several saloons continued, challenging the removal of their licenses awarded prior to the prohibition vote. By 1920, after the 18th Amendment and the effect of the Volstead Act, Plant City was legally a “dry” territory.

With over a thousand miles of coastline and minimal numbers of law enforcement, the peoples’ desire for alcohol was met with the smuggling of immigrants and liquor via boat, car, wagon, and train, much of it coming from Cuba. In this area, Tampa became the center for smugglers, gangsters, boot leggers, illegal speakeasys, and mob activity for the next decade. Not far behind, Plant City had its own speakeasys, stills, and boot legged liquor.

In spite of the freedom extended by the 21st Amendment (December 1933), which repealed the prohibition of the 18th Amendment, Plant City controlled the production, sale, and consumption through the issuance of proper zoning licenses. Establishments wanting to sell and serve had to meet flexible criteria to be granted a license. The dry versus wet struggle continued for years, with city commissioners debating the issue. Appeals and law suits were common. Nonetheless, the peoples taste for beer, whiskey, and wine continues to be met.

In our pre-celebration of the Archives’ 25th Anniversary we are hosting a street festival on Evers Street, “History, Whiskey, and Wine” on Saturday March 22nd from 1 to 7 p.m.in historic downtown. Drop in for a fun time with music, a line up of local vendors, refreshments available at Evers Street bars, food trucks, and a special inside the Archives ($50 per person) featuring lite bites, and samples of a special selection of rum and unique mixed drinks (a fundraiser for the Archives; call 813.754.1578 or email libby@ plantcityphotoarchives.org for tickets).

This is the Anheuser-Busch saloon owned by E. W. Parramoure and R. L. Sparkman in the Faison Building at the corner of Collins and Haines Streets circa 1914.

Plant City’s Top Businesses

2025 Readers’ Choice Awards Winners Revealed

By Cierra Craft

Plant City has spoken! FOCUS Magazine is excited to announce the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards winners. With over 10,000 votes cast in 60+ categories, the competition was fierce, with some winners decided by razor-thin margins of less than ten votes!

We at FOCUS Magazine believe in the power of local business; these awards testify to our community’s dedication to providing the best products and services. Last month, we held our 24th Anniversary party at Keel and Curley Winery, bringing together business leaders from various industries. The atmosphere was energized by creativity, innovation, and community.

Flip through the following pages to meet the 2025 Readers’ Choice Award winners. Your guide to the best local services and businesses starts here.

BEST ASIAN

Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar

Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar offers traditional Japanese fare with a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The contemporary restaurant offers Teppanyaki dining, where guests can watch their food be prepared right before their eyes. Each Hibachi entree is served with soup, house salad with ginger dressing, fried rice, vegetables, and your choice of meat.

Wasabi’s talented sushi chefs create sushi rolls, hand rolls, and sashimi with the freshest salmon, tuna, eel, and more within each roll. Offering over 30 options for the Roll Combination Lunch Special, choose any two rolls for $13 or any three rolls for less than $17 on Monday through Saturday from 11am to 3pm.

BEST WINGS

Duke’s Brewhouse

When you’re dining at Duke’s Brewhouse, there are only three things that matter: Wings. Sports. Spirits.

At Duke’s, customers can have chicken wings their way and choose between traditional or boneless. Flavors like Kickin’ Korean, Sweet Heat, and Garlic Parmesan are some of the over 20 wing sauces available. Dry Rub options are Old Bay, Duke’s Blackened, Mango Habanero, Memphis BBQ, and Lemon Pepper.

“Delicious wings, wonderful drinks, and a live band, what more could you ask for!” said one customer. Another added, “They have great bone-in wings with a wide variety of sauce flavors. The staff is very attentive and provides a great atmosphere!”

Duke’s Brewhouse Plant City General Manager Chris Stovall said, “It feels great to be recognized for something we take pride in. Putting your name on something is one thing; being the best is another.”

Other Nominees: Smokin’ Aces BBQ / The Rolling Crab / O’Brien’s Irish Pub / 1916 Irish Pub

Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant

Featuring a menu of traditional TexMex cuisine and delicious margaritas, Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant offers customers an affordable meal in a lively atmosphere. From quesadillas to fajitas, there is something for everyone at Mi Casa.

At this family-owned restaurant, the saying goes, “Mi casa es su casa.” The Gama family and the dedicated wait

staff treat each guest like family, using only the freshest ingredients in each dish. Looking for a quick lunch, from 11 am to 3 pm, Mi Casa serves a quick, simple lunch plate. Choose from one of 9 entrees served with rice and your choice of refried or churro beans.

Conveniently located in the Plant City Crossing plaza, the delicious food is what keeps folks coming back time and time again.

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

Maryland Fried Chicken

Maryland Fried Chicken has become a cornerstone of Plant City’s culinary heritage. From humble beginnings, the Naset family prides itself on offering the same fresh, never-frozen chicken that has fed hungry Plant City residents for over 50 years.

Five days per week, the fresh whole chicken is delivered. It’s then cut, coated in seasonings and spices, and pressure-cooked in pure peanut oil. The pressure-cooking method seals in the juices and flavors, giving a crispy exterior to the chicken. The pressurecooking method makes Maryland

Fried Chicken one of a kind and a dining experience to remember. This locally owned and operated restaurant has legions of fans, transcending generations. Still, it hasn’t lost its Plant City heart and friendly service.

Complete dinners for dine-in or take-out are available with chicken or seafood in the apex at the corner of Thonotosassa and Alexander Street, just north of the former South Florida Baptist Hospital. Stop in soon to savor the flavor that has charmed locals for more than 50 years.

Hours: Mon-Fri, 11AM-7PM; Closed Sat & Sun

Other Nominees: Publix / Chick-Fil-A / Fred’s Market Restaurant

BEST CUBAN

Strawberry Hut

The seventeen-time award-winning Strawberry Hut sandwiches are truly something to behold—stacked high with Smoked ham, deli ham, mojo pork, salami, swiss cheese, mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomato, and pickle. Six days a week, the 300-square-foot walk-up eatery is busy serving madeto-order sandwiches, soups, salads, real-fruit strawberry milkshakes, and year-round strawberry shortcake.

Longtime Plant City residents Troy and Betty Wilson never cut quality. They purchase fresh produce from

the farmer’s market and have fresh bread delivered daily from Tampa’s La Segunda Bakery. Their success, with God’s help, prompted them to open a second Strawberry Hut in early 2015— a 3,400-square-foot, air-conditioned restaurant in Lakeland. They credit our local community for their 32 years in business. Betty explained, “We’re grateful that Plant City has been so good to us. Our customers feel like family.”

BEST BAR

1916 Irish Pub Plant City

1916 Irish Pub quickly became Plant City’s gathering place for cocktails, import and domestic beers, wine, and soft drinks since it opened its doors in 2016. From creative cocktails crafted with premium spirits to a Guinness stout, the experienced bartenders at 1916 are ready to serve. 1916 Irish Pub is the place to go for a good time and good drinks with good friends.

The food selection also holds a culinary twist of Irish and Americana. The #1 sandwich choice is the Reuben, which competes with the always popular Shepherd’s Pie, chicken wings, and Kobe beef burgers. Other selections include flatbreads, sandwiches, and on the weekends, 1916 Irish Pub offers mimosas with brunch.

2309 Thonotosassa Road / Plant City, FL 33563 / (813) 756-6504

Hours: Monday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Other Nominees: Brooklyn Bridge / Dairy Queen / Norma’s / Ole Tampa Cubans

Other Nominees: Roots Tap Room & Wine Bar / PaddyWagon / O’Brien’s Irish Pub Duke’s Brewhouse / Keel Farms / Propagation / Three Hands Mead

Parkesdale Farm Market

Thousands flock to Parkesdale Farm Market each winter for a taste of Florida’s official dessert: Strawberry Shortcake. Made with the Pride of Parkesdale strawberries, a cake-biscuit hybrid, and dairy-free whipped topping, the dessert is not only Plant City’s favorite but also world-famous. On a busy day, Parkesdale Farm Market sells approximately 1,700 strawberry shortcakes and roughly estimates it has sold 4.5 million shortcakes over its 40 years.

Parkesdale owners Jim Meeks and his wife, Xiomara, say Parkesdale milkshakes were named

Food Network’s Top Ten desserts and named FOCUS Magazines’ Best Milkshake year after year. The milkshakes are made with vanilla ice cream and spun, creating chunks of fruit, cookies, etc., depending on the flavor ordered. Parkesdales’ milkshakes bring people from near and far, with some fans online saying they travel hours during the festival season for a Parkesdale strawberry milkshake.

These milkshakes and shortcakes have been made for presidential hopefuls, including John McCain, Barack Obama, and the Bush family—George

H.W., George W., and Jeb. The market is a popular campaign stop for those seeking to secure the Interstate 4 Corridor and win the politically divided Hillsborough County.

“To see what the farm has become is overwhelming sometimes; I just can’t believe it,” says Parke family matriarch Helen Parke. “Our family has been blessed.”

Other Strawberry Shortcake Nominees: Berry Barn / Fred’s Market / Strawberry Hut / Fancy Farm Market Other Milkshake Nominees: Berry Barn / Strawberry Hut / Twistee Treat / Fancy Farms Market

BEST STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE & BEST MILKSHAKE

ABC Pizza

ABC Pizza is renowned for its iconic Greek Salad This salad is, as the menu says, “a meal in itself.” The Greek Salad starts with a big bed of shredded lettuce, topped with chopped tomatoes, generous amounts of feta cheese and ham strips, Greek peppers, Greek olives, and the restaurant’s house dressing. For an extra flavor, add a scoop of Greek potato salad.

With 170 Google reviews specifically about the Greek Salad, the dish is right up there with pizza as one of the restaurant’s top entrees. One customer said, “We always get the white pizza and Greek salad, absolutely perfect every time!.”

Another added, “Their mini Creek salads are wonderful and big enough to share, ordering their potato salad is a must and goes great with the salad. Great customer service!” 114

BEST SOUP

Norma’s

You may be surprised by this year’s winner for Best Soup, but Norma’s has made a commitment to its motto: More Than a Sandwich Shop. Norma’s serves up a Spanish Bean Soup on its daily menu, but during Taco Tuesday, Norma’s whips something special. Flavors include classics like Minestone or a unique twist such as Chicken Noodle Soup with Lima Beans.

Norma’s kitchen staff brings bold flavors to the Cuban shop’s soup offerings, serving up a Japanese Ramen, a Cajun-inspired Gumbo, and

120

more. Customers can taste the chef’s passion for fusion flavors and create a dining experience with each scoop into Norma’s soups.

Norma’s is led by co-owner Leo Mesquita, with Chef Tyler Bullington and General Manager X cooking up some fun stuff at the downtown restaurant. Norma’s is renowned for its sandwich offerings, catering, and now meal prep. Visit Norma’s on Facebook for updates on catering, events, and special menu items.

Hours: Mon-Sat 10AM to 4PM

Other Nominees: 1916 Irish Pub / Ole Tampa Cubans / Sweet Missions / Whistle Stop

BBQ & BEST BURGER

Johnson Barbeque

Forget everything you thought you knew about barbecue. Johnson Barbeque isn’t just serving food; they’re crafting an experience, a slow-burning symphony of flavor. Sixteen hours of low-and-slow dedication, where each carefully selected cut of meat is seasoned with homemade rubs and sauces, a secret blend passed down through generations. Each cut of meat is slow-smoked on site for 16 hours with homemade rubs and sauces; each dish is handcrafted through a detailed process to ensure every bite is tender and flavorful.

Enjoy the Smoked Wings, St. Louis Ribs, and Beef Brisket, which are true crowd-pleasers on the menu. While honoring the treasured, generations-old family recipes, Johnson Barbeque also offers innovative plates such as Smoked Fried Chicken, Sweet Tea Salmon, and BBQ Tacos.

This year, Johnson Barbeque also won the Best Hamburger Award. The restaurant offers three burger options: Freddy Burger, with grilled onion, cheese, fried pickles, lettuce, and 1954 sauce; Pimento Cheeseburger, with fried green tomato, house-made pimento cheese, onion, lettuce, and

pickles; and American Cheeseburger, a classic topped with lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, and cheese.

Step into their inviting neighborhood restaurant at the corner of Alexander Street and MLK Jr Blvd, and instantly feel at home. Here, you’ll rediscover the true meaning of handcrafted Southern barbecue, a proud tradition sparked by the visionary Elton Johnson in 1954. Burning brighter than ever today, Johnson Barbeque is a testament to the enduring power of passion, family, and the love of exceptional food.

Culver’s / Brick House Cafe / 1916 Irish Pub / Outback Steakhouse / Keel Farms

BEST

Krazy Kup

The Trunzo family has welcomed friends, new and old, to Krazy Kup Koffeehouse in historic downtown Plant City. Krazy Kup offers hot, cold, and blended drink options, from espresso to iced coffee to “krappes,” just to name a few. Customers rave about the coffee concoctions and the friendly service at Krazy Kup.

“Coffee is so good! Ordered a cinnamon rush latte and loved it!” said one customer. Another added, “Literally my favorite coffee place in all of Florida so far. The shop looks inviting and fun, and the coffee is better than any places I’ve been to.”

Born from a New Orleans tradition of combining smooth, fluffy snow with bold flavors, Pelican’s SnoBalls has been serving over 100 fantastic flavors since September 2019. From Strawberry Shortcake to Grape and even non-traditional flavors like Fireball, Spearmint, Dill Pickle, and Toothpaste, there is a snoball flavor for everyone. All of the syrups are free of high fructose corn syrup and gluten-

free with five sugar-free flavors. Ask for your snoball to be “stuffed” with an ice cream center for an extra scoop of fun. With each holiday, Pelican’s released limited edition flavors.

Pelican’s also serves up 24 flavors of Hershey’s hand-dipped Ice Cream served in a cup, cone, or inside of your snoball. For a hot Florida day, a trip to Pelican’s is the perfect treat.

Nominees: Krazy Kup / Dairy Queen / Outback Steakhouse / Sweet Missions Cafe

BEST STEAK, BEST SEAFOOD & BEST SERVER

Outback Steakhouse

The Plant City Outback team is thankful for its “mates” voting the Australian-theme restaurant for Best Steak and Best Seafood! From Victoria’s Filet Mignon to the Melbourne Porterhouse, each steak is sure to be tender, savory, and seared to perfection. Pair your steak with grilled or coconut shrimp or steamed lobster tail for a dining experience to take you to “the Land Down Under.”

Outback offers grilled salmon, seared Ahi Tuna, Toowoomba Salmon, and Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie. For a limited time, Outback will offer Hooley Dolley Shrimp; these jumbo prawns are grilled with garlic butter or battered with coconut shreds and served with sweet marmalade.

Jazmine Brown was voted Plant City’s Best Server. She has worked on the local restaurant for eight years, working her way up from Host to Assistant Manager. Brown’s favorite menu item is the Outback Ribeye and the house wine.

Brown said: “I was in disbelief when my name was called! It felt like winning a Grammy! The Reader’s Choice Awards with Focus is my favorite event to get dressed up for and attend with my co-workers and family. It felt like hard work over the years had definitely paid off.”

To Plant City Outback’s Managing Partner, Ryan Danielik, it’s no surprise that Jazmine won the coveted award.

“Jazmine embodies hospitality to an unmatched level,” said Danielik “She makes it all about the guest... Jaz’s unwavering commitment to make people’s day better is why she deserved the Best Server award.”

Be sure to visit Outback Steakhouse or call ahead for curbside pickup. Outback Plant City offers Delivery throughout the greater Plant City area and catering services to feed a crowd. Call today or use the Outback app to order your Outback favorites.

Open Mon-Thurs: 11AM to 10PM, Fri & Sat: 11AM to 11PM, Sun: 11AM to 9PM

Other Steak Nominees: Carrabba’s Italian Grill / Johnsons BBQ / Outback Steakhouse / Smokin’ Aces BBQ / Propagation Whiskey Bar & Kitchen

Other Seafood Nominees: 1916 Irish Pub / Smokin’ Aces / Johnson Barbeque / Maryland Fried Chicken

Other Best Server Nominees: Paula Sinclair at Olde Town / Tabatha Acuna at 1916 Irish Pub / Alexis Baroni at Duke’s Brewhouse / Annette Dunn at Fred’s Market

Hillary Hartline at Johnson BBQ / Jennifer Jordan Murphy at Smokin’ Aces / Casey Wright at Propagation Whiskey Bar & Kitchen

ITALIAN AND BEST PIZZA

Olde Town Pizzaria & Pasta Co.

Olde Town Pizzaria & Pasta Co. has a casual, upbeat vibe for hungry diners to gather around the table for something delicious. Olde Town offers thin crust and deep-dish pizzas, crisp salads, and hearty pasta entrees, such as Spaghetti & Meatballs, Chicken Parmesan, and Baked Ziti.

The restaurant’s thin-crust pizzas are cut into squares rather than triangles and come in sizes

small, medium, large, and extra large. Flavors like Chicken Bacon Ranch, BLT, and Blue Buffalo, these pies are beyond the traditional pizza flavors. Most pizzas can be ordered Deep Dish as well, and at Olde Town, they put the cheese underneath the sauce, like a Chicago Deep Dish-style.

In 2024, Olde Town’s beloved manager Karen Williams passed away. Williams began working

for the restaurant 20 years ago when Olde Town opened its doors. She was so proud of each FOCUS RCA award that hangs in the dining room. Restaurant continues to honor Karen by bringing home the Best Italian and Best Pizza award this year.

Hometown Cookin’ Nominees:

Other Overall Service Nominees: Brick House Cafe / Johnson BBQ / Olde Town Pizzaria & Pasta Co. / Outback Steakhouse

Other Breakfast Nominees: Brick House Cafe / Anna’s Restaurant / iHOP / Snellgrove’s

BEST BREAKFAST, HOMETOWN COOKIN’, BEST OVERALL SERVICE, & BEST CHEF

Fred’s Market Restaurant

Fred’s Market Restaurant was the recipient of three plaques: Best Breakfast, Best Overall Service, and Best Hometown Cookin’ and one employee, Rey Gonzalez, was named a two-time winner of the Best Chef category.

In 1998, Fred and Tammy Johnson opened the first Fred’s Market Restaurant, continuing the legacy of serving it up southern with the help of their sons, Owen and Michael. Fred’s MarketTable serves fried chicken, meatloaf, fried catfish, and all the fixins, just like Southern families have been eating for generations.

Opening at 6 am, Fred’s Market Restaurant is a popular choice for early birds, “snowbirds,” and blue-collar workers, all looking for a hot meal. The Breakfast MarketTable offers a large assortment of breakfast staples and southern favorites made with farm-fresh ingredients. Your morning selections are endless, from eggs and bacon to biscuits and gravy to sausage and hash browns, as well as the freshest ingredients on the fresh fruit bar. You can also get Fred’s famous fried chicken for breakfast.

Fred’s can’t serve up good food without good folks. The restaurant prides itself on offering southern hospitality and is proud to win Best Overall Service. The team offers quick service and always ensures that guests feel like they’re at home.

“How can I say ‘thank you’ enough to our staff for their dedication and to our guests who keep coming back,” said General Manager Judy Connell.

Rey Gonzalez has worked for the Johnson family for 32 years, beginning as a dishwasher at 18 years old at Buddy Freddy’s. Rey takes pride in ensuring that the restaurant’s iconic Fried Chicken is golden, juicy, and crispy, just as it should be.

“I am so excited and humbled,” said Rey Gonzalez. “Thank you for letting me do what I LOVE!”

Other

Brick House Cafe / Anna’s Restaurant / Snellgrove’s

Other Chef Nominees: Tyler Bullington at Norma’s / Robert Jordan Sr. at Smokin’ Aces / Derek Green at Outback / Sammy Serrano at Johnson BBQ / Carlos Renteria at Olde Town Rocco Taliani at Propagation Whiskey Bar & Kitchen / Spiro Sarris at Brick House Cafe / Fernando Rodriguez at 1916 Irish Pub / James Londberg at Duke’s Brewhouse

BEST CAR WASH

Octopus Car Wash

When choosing a car wash for your vehicle, it’s important to find a company that is experienced, professional, and properly equipped to meet your car or truck’s needs. Plant City residents have trusted Octopus Car Wash for 30 years when striving to keep their vehicles clean.

Octopus is an express ride-thru car wash equipped with twelve free self-service and state-of-the-art vacuums, towels for touch-ups, and window cleaner. Your vehicle is washed and hand-dried as you relax and ride through. Octopus offers two automated cashier lanes, where customers can choose from many options, including a basic wash for the

occasional customer or, for customers who prefer frequent washes, the monthly unlimited wash for one low fee. For special attention to your vehicle, call Octopus at (813) 7540777 to schedule an appointment for vehicle detailing.

“We feel that Octopus is different in that we offer speed of service, fair pricing, state-of-the-art equipment, spot-free rinsing, and hand drying,” said owner Sherman Williams.

Your car is important to you, so make sure it gets the great service it deserves from the experts at Octopus Car Wash.

Hometown Tire & Auto Repair is a full-service automotive repair and preventive maintenance shop that is honest, has integrity, and offers fair pricing that customers can trust. All technicians are ASE-certified, one of the most prestigious certifications in the automotive industry. These expert technicians service all makes and models with the latest technology and are equipped to handle all major and minor repairs on foreign and domestic vehicles.

“Thank you to our community, friends, and family for voting Hometown Tire & Auto as the Best Auto Service in Plant

City!” said Brandon Prince, owner of Hometown Tire & Auto. “This wouldn’t have been possible without my dedicated and hardworking team.”

Hometown Tire & Auto is a certified NAPA AutoCare Center, using highquality NAPA parts, which include a NAPA warranty on all parts for two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.

The Hometown Tire & Auto Repair team is ready to help you get back on the road with two convenient locations to serve Plant City and Dover. Call today or stop in to get started.

Other Nominees: Jarrett-Scott Ford / Alert Tire Service

BODY SHOP AND BEST USED AUTO DEALER

Jarrett-Scott Ford

Jarrett-Scott Ford’s specially trained auto body repair professionals have all the parts, tools, and expertise to repair your vehicle’s damage. The Jarrett-Scott Ford Body Shop professionals provide collision repair, automotive glass replacement, paintless dent repair, and more.

The Body Shop team understands accidents are unexpected. They offer hassle-free insurance claim assistance and rental car assistance to get you back on the road. They also offer a customer shuttle

service for easy pick up and drop off while your vehicle is under their care.

Are you in the market for a used vehicle? JarrettScott Ford is Plant City’s trusted used auto dealer, offering cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. Each vehicle has been thoroughly inspected and maintains the dealership’s highest standards of quality, so you can be sure you’re receiving a model in superior condition. From gas and diesel to hybrid cars, Jarrett-Scott Ford’s got something for everyone.

The Jarrett-Scott team at “Florida’s Oldest and Most Trusted Ford Dealership” [est. 1912] takes great pride in the high level of customer satisfaction the dealership earns and the referrals it receives as a result.

One customer said, “I recently bought a secondhand car from them, and I am very satisfied with the car and the attention I received from Dylan and Michael. They were very helpful and made every step easy.”

Dealership: Mon- Fri 8AM-5PM / Quick Lane® Tire & Auto Center: Mon-Fri 7AM–6PM; Sat 7AM–3PM

The Bank of Tampa Plant City branch offers Personal Banking and Wealth Management options that fit clients’ needs. It offers a number of deposit and savings accounts. All accounts feature online and mobile banking options, as well as Visa debit or credit cards. The Bank of Tampa assists clients with residential mortgages and finding a home or construction loan that fits their needs.

Founded on the foundation of commercial banking, The Bank of

Tampa offers several Commercial Deposit Solutions, including small business checking accounts, commercial checking accounts, and Commercial Interest Checking accounts (for sole proprietors and non-profit organizations only).

Visit the Bank of Tampa Plant City office and let Polly Wiggins, Wesley Joyner, and Matt Buzza help you with your banking and wealth management needs today.

Michael Cameron [Cameron Financial Management]

Cameron Financial Management provides assistance with investments, insurance, and financial planning. If you need advice regarding stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities, life insurance, gold, silver, college savings, or any other money-related topic, “whether you have $1,000 or $1 million,” Michael Cameron looks forward to helping you with your needs and goals—and on your schedule. He enjoys his work of “quietly making money for people.”

Michael Cameron is an advisor who answers clients’ questions and the ones they don’t know how to ask. He offers judgment-free advice and will be with clients every step of the way to help them reach their financial goals.

For a complimentary financial portfolio review and consultation—on a nopressure, no-obligation basis—contact Michael Cameron, an advisor you can trust.

Other Nominees: Jimmy Conrow [Edward Jones] / Matt Hawes [Edward Jones]

BEST ATTORNEY

Trinkle Redman, PA

At Trinkle Redman, PA, clients will find a professional staff dedicated to providing qualified and personalized legal representation. Trinkle Redman, PA specializes in Coroporate & Business Law, Real Estate, Estate Planning & Probate, and Litigation & Lawsuits.

Since the firm’s beginnings in 1928, the legal team has been proud to be actively involved in the Plant City and West Central Florida communities, which have been an essential part

of its growth. Established by John R. Trinkle, the foundation of the firm’s success has been built on accountability and commitment, not only to the growing community but also to the valued community of clients.

If you’re looking for a firm committed to legal excellence while maintaining hometown values, then call Trinkle, Redman PA to schedule a consultation.

Taylor Clark at Ling Realty

With a passion for helping others find their dream homes and a deep understanding of the local Plant City market, Taylor Clark has quickly become a trusted agent and a go-to resource for buyers and sellers alike.

Taylor possesses an in-depth knowledge of Plant City’s neighborhoods, schools, and amenities, allowing him to provide valuable insights and personalized recommendations to clients looking to buy their dream home. He also has experience in commercial and corporate development with prior experience with the Plant City Economic Development Center.

Taylor is active in the Plant CIty Chamber, Hillsborough County Cattlemens, and Plant City Rotary Club, among others. He is passionate about supporting local businesses and organizations, and he is always eager to lend a helping hand to those in need. His commitment to giving back reflects his genuine desire to make a positive impact on the community he calls home.

If you’re looking for a real estate partner who is knowledgeable, trustworthy, and passionate about helping you achieve your goals, look no further than Taylor Clark.

Other Nominees: Tabatha Pugh / John Haney

RAOK Boutique

RAOK, which stands for Random Acts of Kindness, was founded in 2014 by Brigitte and Hannah, a motherdaughter duo on a mission to serve others and spread kindness.

RAOK sells women’s clothing, accessories, and gifts in the latest fashions, allowing each customer to feel beautiful from within when she wears RAOK. The boutique carries brands such as Brighton, eNewton, Kendra Scott, and Erimish. Whether shopping for something casual for a day at the park with the kids or a top trimmed in lace and ruffles, RAOK

has something for everyone, and gift wrapping is always complimentary. As a former Strawberry Festival Queen, Hannah, and the team launch an extensive Strawberry Festival collection each year, with custom designs and exclusive Erimish bracelet stacks.

Founded on the family’s Christian faith, the team at RAOK wants to pour love and kindness into each of its customers in a family-friendly atmosphere. Be sure to visit RAOK for your next gift or apparel purchase.

Florida Mortgage Firm is a nationally ranked brokerage offering boutiquestyle service. The company has earned the FOCUS Magazine Best Mortgage Lender award for eight consecutive years and was recognized as the United Wholesale Mortgage Top Mortgage Lender in Florida from 2019 to 2022, among many other honors.

Whether clients are looking to get approved to buy or build a home or looking for assistance with

refinancing, Florida Mortgage Firm can help clients on their loan journey with a simple phone call or visit to flamortgagefirm.com

As to their company, Nate and his wife, Natasha, know for certain that “Continual improvement is vital to our long-term success. We want to be THE best, not just our best. Every client matters. Every transaction. Every time.”

Other Nominees: Bank of Tampa / Stone Mortgage Group

Plant City Awning & Aluminum

Plant City Awning & Aluminum has been a full-service aluminum contractor serving Hillsborough County for over 50 years. Owner Larry Johnson provides residential and commercial client services, offering screen rooms, glass rooms, carports, pool enclosures, patio awnings, and more. Custom details are also available.

While residential projects comprise most of the company’s work, Plant City Awning & Aluminum has also

serviced major commercial accounts, including the Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City Airport, the National Guard Armory, and several projects with South Florida Baptist Hospital.

Don’t hesitate to contact the company to request an estimate or to schedule a free in-home consultation at your convenience. Visit www. plantcityawningandaluminum.com or call today: (813) 659-2501

BEST INSURANCE COMPANY

Poppell Insurance

Established in 1964, Poppell Insurance is a locally owned and operated independent insurance agency. The agency’s longevity is a testament to the legacy of hard work, integrity, and generosity established by founder R. Tom Poppell. Today, his sons, Jon and Mark, own and operate the business.

Poppell Insurance has a commercial lines department to insure businesses, a personal lines department to insure individuals (home, auto, etc.), and a groups benefit department providing group health insurance for businesses. As an independent agency, Poppell Insurance represents a number of carriers, including Auto-Owners, Tower Hill, CNA, and Blue Cross Blue

Shield, among many others, to find the right coverage for their client’s insurance needs.

“This gives our office the ability to check with more than one market and help find the right policy to fit a customer’s needs,” said vice president of personal lines, Jon Poppell. “Not all homeowners or auto insurance coverage is the same.”

This hometown and family-owned/ operated agency wants to earn your business and keep it for a lifetime. For more information, stop by, visit poppellinsurance.com, or call 813-7524155.

503 W Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. / Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 752-4155 / poppellinsurance.com Mon-Fri 8AM to 5PM

LEGACY AWARD

Brewington’s Towing & Recovery

For three generations, Brewington’s Towing & Recovery has served Plant City with unwavering dedication. Owned by David Brewington and his sons, Chris and DJ, this family-run business is more than just a towing service; it’s a community cornerstone.

From routine tows to complex recoveries, Brewington’s handles it all with expertise. Their reputation for reliability has forged strong partnerships with local law enforcement, who consistently rely on their prompt and professional assistance. Whether clearing accident scenes or retrieving stranded vehicles,

Brewington’s commitment to efficient service is evident.

In a town that values tradition, Brewington’s Towing embodies the spirit of Plant City: dependable, hardworking, and always ready to lend a hand. It is no surprise that Brewington Towing & Recovery is the winner of this year’s Legacy Award. Next time your vehicle’s broken down, don’t sit on the side of the road for hours waiting for some big corporate tow truck. Call Brewington’s Towing & Recovery for more than 50 years of hometown hospitality.

Plant City Pediatrics

The professionals at Plant City Pediatrics believe “children are a gift from the Lord” and view patient care as an investment in our future. Plant City Pediatrics offers preventive care, immunizations, same-day sick appointments, and more. Patients are seen by appointment only to avoid long wait times.

Plant City Pediatrics strives to offer the latest technology and convenience for patient families. Parents can now check-in and complete paperwork

through the Healow app prior to their visit. They can also utilize the patient portal to view lab results, immunizations, request prescription refills, and view referrals and visit summaries, to better manage their child’s healthcare.

The practice sees patients from birth to 19 years of age and is currently accepting new patients. Remember, your child’s best medical care is only a phone call away, (813) 659-9800.

Other Nominees: John Aime, MD / Suncoast Pediatrics

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Caring Concepts Chiropractic Clinic

Experiencing a stiff neck or a sore back? It’s time for a trip to Caring Concepts Chiropractic Clinic. Caring Concepts provides the most advanced technology to bring Plant City top-notch chiropractic care. Caring Concepts has served the greater Plant City area from its Baker Street location.

Caring Concepts Chiropractic Clinic provides the following services: Spinal Adjustments & Manipulation; Massage Therapy; Spinal Decompression Therapy; Laser Therapy; Electrical Muscle

Stimulation; Cryotherapy; In-House X-Rays & Ultrasound

Caring Concepts is led by Dr. Todd Glenn and Dr. William Garrison. Together, the doctors have over 40 years of experience helping clients relieve pain and gain a new lease on life.

If you’re in need of pain relief due to auto accidents, work-related or personal injury, or a sports injury, make your appointment at Caring Concepts Chiropractic Clinic at 813754-CARE

Other Nominees: Inspired Dentistry / Woodside Dental

Tooth Caboose offers pediatric dentistry, sedation dentistry, early interceptive treatment, and orthodontics for adolescents and children. Its mission is to ensure that patients have a smile they love. It offers a variety of treatment options, from traditional stainless steel braces to more discreet clear braces and Invisalign®, allowing patients to make the right choice for them.

Today, The Tooth Caboose is led by Dr. Daniel Ruffolo, DDS, MS; Dr. Tanya Bejarano, DDS; and Dr. Morgan Barron, DDS. The team at the Tooth Caboose is looking forward to helping your child achieve the best smile possible. If you’re looking for the best dental care in town, look no further than the Tooth Caboose.

HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

Enhanced Healthcare

Everyone’s journey to wellness looks different. For patients looking for primary care, supervised medical weight loss, hormone replacement, or IV therapy, Enhanced Healthcare has the services to help transform lives. Led by Krystle Jaynes, an autonomous nurse practitioner, Enhanced Healthcare offers inperson appointments or telehealth appointments and emphasizes building a deeper relationship between the provider and patient.

Patients can call (813) 441-4952 or visit https://enhancedhealthcarefl.com/ to learn more about Plant City’s Best Healthcare Provider. BEST

Enhanced Healthcare offers treatment for sexual wellness, hormone replacement therapy, IV therapy, vitamin injections, botox and fillers, and peptide therapy. The experts at Enhanced Healthcare offer compassionate care with personalized treatment plans that complement each client’s goals of achieving their health and wellness goals.

Alan’s Air Conditioning

Alan’s Air Conditioning is a trusted local business that has kept Plant City comfortable year-round for 30 years. With a team of skilled technicians and a commitment to customer satisfaction, they offer various HVAC services, from installation and repair to routine maintenance. Owners Brian and Tiffany Lewis’ faith in Jesus Christ guides their business decisions, and they prioritize honesty, integrity, and customer satisfaction.

Alan’s Air Conditioning team comprises Trane comfort specialists, RUUD Pro partners, and Mitsubishi Diamond dealers. Technicians undergo continuous education on the latest equipment and technology, so the team is trained to handle any situation in the field.

Call Alan’s Air Conditioning at 813752-0821 to book your air conditioning maintenance before the hot summer months begin.

Backbone Construction & Roofing

Plant City native and third-generation roofer Nathan Garrett and his team at Backbone Construction & Roofing treat each job with professionalism and care, whether residential, industrial, or commercial property. From fleshed-out blueprints to a concept drawn on a napkin, Backbone is committed to making your dream home a reality. From a sleek, contemporary home to a cozy farmhouse, Backbone’s team of experts understands that each

style requires a unique approach – from selecting the right materials that blend aesthetics with durability to employing construction techniques that align with the architectural integrity of the design.

Backbone Construction & Roofing is an expert in roofing installation, maintenance, and repair. The company offers asphalt shingles, metal roof systems, flat roof systems, emergency tarp service, and more. Each installation includes a roof warranty, covering both materials and workmanship.

Backbone Construction & Roofing provides the strength you need and the character you can trust. Call Backbone Construction & Roofing today for a free estimate!

True Plumbers

When a pipe bursts, panic can set in. However, True Plumbers offers a reliable lifeline for residents across Central Florida. Voted “Best Plumber” in *FOCUS Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards for the first time, True Plumbers’ reputation for quality and professionalism precedes them.

From minor faucet repairs to complex repiping projects, True Plumbers handles it all. Their team of certified technicians arrives promptly and is equipped to diagnose and resolve any plumbing issue efficiently. Leaky toilets, clogged drains, and water heater malfunctions—no job is too big or small.

What sets True Plumbers apart is their commitment to customer satisfaction. They prioritize transparent communication, providing detailed explanations and upfront pricing. Their dedication to using high-quality materials and employing the latest techniques ensures lasting solutions.

Beyond emergency repairs, True Plumbers offers preventative maintenance services, helping homeowners avoid costly future problems. Whether dealing with a sudden plumbing crisis or planning a home renovation, True Plumbers is the name you can trust. Call today!

BEST

Salon on the Park

Salon on the Park is a full-service salon offering Blowouts, Extensions, haircuts, and color for men and women. It is led by Mendy Feaster and her daughter, Mylie Feaster VanValkenburg. Together with the stylists, Salon on the Park opened in August 2022 in downtown Plant City on McCall Park, sharing a space with Fringe Boutique.

The true heart of Salon on the Park lies in its team of talented stylists. Each stylist is a master of their craft, possessing a deep understanding

of hair and a passion for creating stunning looks. Whether you’re seeking a classic cut, a trendy color, or a glamorous updo, the stylists at Salon on the Park will work closely with you to achieve your desired look.

The stylists at Salon on the Park are humbled to be named Plant City’s Best Salon for the third consecutive year. They’re thrilled Plant City loves their downtown salon as much as they do. Call today to book for a luxury, boutique experience with a hometown welcome.

Other Nominees: The Artistry / Audrey’s Style Bar

SALON

The Barber Company

The Barber Company was named Plant City’s best barbershop for the third consecutive year.

Led by owners Brady Chason and Sean Colleran, The Barber Company offers men’s haircuts, beard trims, brow grooming, hot towel shaves, edge-ups, and haircuts for boys. The team is dedicated to providing exceptional barbering services to help men look and feel their best. Better yet, enjoy a cold beverage while you get your hair cut for a kicked back vibe.

One client said: “Sean, Brady, Grant, Taylor, Brooke, and Tim are probably the nicest barbers you will ever meet, they treat everyone like a VIP

no matter what! You guys need a new barber, this is the place to be! The attention to detail and how you like your cut is the most valuable important part about the experience you get here!”

The shop is redefining what it means to be a neighborhood barber, offering a sense of community through referrals and events.

“If a client says ‘I’m looking for a realtor,’ we’ll refer one of our clients,” says Chason. “If someone is looking for a sponsor and we’re able to step up, we will. We are proud to be in Plant City, and we look forward to doing our part to show Plant City our love.”

Propagation Whiskey

Bar & Kitchen

Propagation is the vision of local entrepreneur Brandon Snyder. The space seamlessly blends exceptional food, handcrafted cocktails, and a warm atmosphere has become a reality thanks to the collaborative efforts of a talented team. Chef Rocco Taliani, renowned for his culinary expertise, takes the helm as Executive Chef, promising a menu that will tantalize taste buds and leave a lasting impression.Lozeno Cardei, the Beverage Director, boasts over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, curating mixed drinks behind bars on four continents. With meticulous attention to detail, Harpro LLC’s Jeff Bessey created an ambiance that is both stylish and comfortable, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal or a lively

night out. The restaurant and bar, which opened in September 2024, has made a deep impression on those looking for an vibrant spot to enjoy downtown Plant City.

The chef-made menu changes seasonally, offering guests a new exciting menu with each visit. From couples sharing martinis at the bar, taking in the sounds of live music on the back patio, or friends enjoying brunch on a Saturday morning, Propagation Whiskey Bar and Kitchen welcomes everyone to its chic, upscale space.

Visit Propagation Whiskey Bar

Other Nominees: Smoothie King / Pot Bellies / Propagation Whiskey Bar & Kitchen Mo’s Pizza Kitchen / Mulberry Market / Pho Loc Tho

BEST JEWELER

Brown’s Jewelers

Since 1986, Brown’s Jewelers has taken great pride in offering friendly, affordable service for all your jewelry needs. It’s a name you can trust for quality in fine jewelry, watches, and expert repairs.

Plant City native Russell “Rusty” Brown started working with jewelry at age 15 when his dad learned the business from his brother-in-law, a gold wholesaler. Brown’s Jewelers is proud to bring experience and expertise to each job and is thankful for the community’s support.

Brown’s Jewelers specializes in fine jewelry, custom designs, and affordable repairs. They also offer free inspections and free cleaning. Their showcases are filled with wedding rings, engagement rings, charms, necklaces, bracelets, and watches. Whether you’re looking to repair a broken bracelet or buy a new pair of earrings for her, look no further than Brown’s Jewelers. Rusty and his team are ready to help.

Quality Septic, Inc.

Quality Septic has offered septic services to Eastern Hillsborough County for 30 years. Owner and operator, Kevin Johnson, is a state licensed septic contractor three decades of experience.

The Quality Septic team has precise workmanship and the experience to handle septic problems, big or small, from repairs to septic field design and installation. QSI has been qualified as a drug-free workplace and carries workman’s comp and general liability

insurance. All employees are OSCA trained. Johnson is proud of the fact that he and his staff are responsible and take immense pride in their work, appearance, and professionalism!

A client shared this review of QSI, “We are very happy with the service we received today. The employees came on time, were very knowledgeable and friendly. They had our tank cleaned quickly and efficiently. We would definitely recommend this company!”

Other Nominees: Bingham Septic / Calhoun Septic

BEST SEPTIC

BEST INDOOR PEST CONTROL

Cross Pest Control

Centrally located in Plant City, Florida, the licensed and insured family-owned Cross Pest Control has been helping residential, commercial, and industrial neighbors in East Hillsborough, Pasco, Polk, Pinellas, and Manatee counties become and stay pest-free since 1952. In 2002, Terry Ballard became a partner in the Plant City business, and in 2008, he purchased the company. Today, the company is run by Ballard’s daughter, Renita Boles. Together with her husband, they manage and operate Cross Pest Control with the same customer-detailed service as her father.

The trusted service providers at Cross, known for their longevity with the company, will take what is “bugging” you seriously.

“We are truly grateful to have the opportunity to take care of your pest control needs,” said Boles. We are also thankful for your word-of-mouth advertising, which grants trust and value to our company.”

Technicians treat you, your home, or your business with respect. They utilize an assortment of odorless, eco-friendly pest control options for the safety of your family, pets, and environment. They can handle everything from annoying and dangerous bugs (including termites) to disease-carrying rodents and roaches. Best of all, Cross Pest Control options won’t break the bank.

Established in 2003, Plant It Earth offers a quality lawn care program specializing in lawn fertilization and pest control. Customer satisfaction is the company’s top priority. The combination of expertise, personalized service, and attention to detail has made Plant It Earth the trusted name in outdoor pest control throughout Central Florida.

Florida’s warm temperatures attract a broad range of pests, including insects and rodents, that can cause damage to your yard. These pests pose various risks to your lawn, such as disease, dead patches, and yellowing leaves. PIE’s effective pest control program can help keep your lawn free from pests, ensuring it stays healthy and vibrant. Call today!

Sydney Road / Plant City, FL 33566 813-777-7938 / Plantitearthflorida.com

OUTDOOR PEST CONTROL

BEST CPA

Raulerson Castillo & Company

The experienced and friendly professional accountants at Raulerson Castillo & Company believe: “You’ve worked hard to get where you are. You deserve a firm that works hard for you, too.”

The firm offers a broad range of services for individuals, business owners, executives, and independent professionals. Affordably priced services encompass nearly every aspect of financial life, including general accounting and taxation, IRS problem resolution, estates and trusts,

business formation, financial planning, real estate, and business sales.

As a trusted advisor, Raulerson Castillo & Company provides outstanding service because it is dedicated to the three underlying principles of professionalism, responsiveness, and quality.

Visit rcwcpas.com to view helpful tools, resources, and information about the Raulerson Castillo & Company team members. Call for a free initial consultation.

Wishing Well Barn

For a little over 10 years, hundreds of couples have started their “happily ever after” at Wishing Well Barn. With its origins beginning with family and continuing with family, Wishing Well Barn treats every couple and guest like they’re family, exuding professionalism and dedication with every event held at the fully functional cattle ranch. Owned by Blake and Michelle Welch, Wishing Well Barn also offers wedding receptions, engagement parties, birthday parties, family reunions, and corporate events.

Taking care of catering, cake, photographers, DJs, videographers, and more, Wishing Well Barn ensures

you will have a stress-free celebration, no matter the occasion. Michelle said of the venue’s services, “The family that benefits most from our services is the busy family who wants to relax and let the professionals do the work. We handle everything from design, set-up, service during the event, and clean-up afterward. We bring your wedding vision to life! We have the best vendors in the industry, and they work together like a well-oiled machine.”

If you’re looking for a rustic, romantic, and all-inclusive venue for your wedding, just remember, “Wishes Come True at the Wishing Well Barn”.

Other Nominees: Keel Farms / Origins Ranch

BEST VENUE

The Sweet Team

Keller Williams Plant City is located in the heart of Plant City, just north of the Walden Lake entrance. As one of Plant City’s largest real estate offices, Keller Williams realtors sell more homes in Plant City than other offices. Local agents with the technology and support of the international powerhouse in Keller Williams drive the Alexander Street office.

Keller Williams Realty takes a different approach to real estate, one that is built on personal touches, win-win relationships, and positive results.

Keller Williams of Plant City utilizes the latest technologies, market research, and business strategies to exceed your expectations. More importantly, KW realtors listen, which means the agents find solutions tailored to you.

One such team of Keller Williams realtors ready to serve you is The Sweet Team, this year’s winner for Best Real Estate Team. With over four decades of combined real estate experience, Angel Miller and Natalie Sweet joined forced to create The Sweet Team. Together, The Sweet Team’s deep community roots provide clients with an unparalleled advantage.

Known for their personalized approach and unwavering dedication, The Sweet Team guides buyers and sellers through every step of the real estate process. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, The Sweet Team’s commitment to clear communication and client satisfaction ensures a smooth and successful transaction. With a passion for service in the West Central Florida area, The Sweet Team is ready to help you with your buying and selling needs.

Plant City’s “Sweet Team” delivers sweet deals in real estate, call today to get started.

BEST GYM/FITNESS CENTER

I Hate My Trainer

Ask Mike Gartz’s clients how they feel about working out with the downtown gym owners, and they often say, “I hate my trainer, but I love the results!”

Gartz got into the fitness industry thirty years ago and has since transformed the lives of thousands of clients physically through personal training, weight training, and fitness classes. He has also transformed lives mentally by helping clients feel better, look better, and gain

confidence. It’s not uncommon to see Gartz downtown, walking the block, encouraging his clients to push through their run and finish strong. Gartz trains kids, teens, athletes, and adults at all stages of their fitness journey.

Gartz says he is thankful that the Plant City community has embraced his big personality and that he has supported his business by voting for its Best Gym/Fitness Center again for 2025.

BEST DRY CLEANER

Mango Cleaners

From dry cleaning to laundry to wedding dress preservation, Mango Cleaners and Laundry is Plant City’s premiere laundry cleaning service. With two convenient locations, Plant City residents trust Mango Cleaners for their laundry needs.

Join the Mango Laundry Club and never do laundry again! With pick-up and delivery, club members load up their orange Mango laundry bags, and the staff will sort the clothing accordingly, wash, dry, fold, and deliver the fresh linens to your home or office.

Mango Cleaners is your one-stop shop for all things textile. The company also offers alterations, smoke/fire restoration, shoe cleaning and repair, and cleaning of bedding, table linens, drapery linens, and area rugs. Don’t see what you need? Just ask! Mango cleans everything!

Next time you have a laundry mishap, visit Mango Cleaners & Laundry, where the knowledgeable staff can take the stress out of your day.

Other Nominees: Myers Cleaners / Sage Cleaners

BEST ASSISTED LIVING

Grace Manor at Hunters Creek

Choosing a senior living community with loved ones can often be a difficult decision for families. At Grace Manor at Hunter’s Creek, located at 765 W. Grant St. in Plant City, Executive Director Christina Gomer and her team provide a vibrant community with services that put families’ minds at ease.

Grace Manor takes day-to-day burdens off the minds of residents and their families while providing numerous onsite amenities, services, and social activities. The community’s

chefs freshly prepare meals, and residents are provided with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. In addition to health and wellness, safety is a top concern. Grace Manor is equipped with round-the-clock caregivers, video surveillance, visitor/vendor technology, and a gated community.

Interested families can schedule a tour by calling Grace Manor’s family advisor, Jordan McDonald, at (813) 743-3701. To learn more, visit gracemanorhunterscreek.com.

Berry Patch Animal Clinic

When your furry friend is ill or in pain, call Berry Patch Animal Clinic for the best veterinary care.

Berry Patch Animal Clinic is a fullservice veterinary medical facility. The knowledgeable staff is dedicated to treating your pet with gentle love and care while performing the best possible medical and surgical care.

Dr. Derek Stansbury graduated from Purdue University in 2007. Having grown up on a farm, he has always had an affinity for animals. He has participated in rodeos since he was young, doing saddle broncos, roping,

and steer wrestling. He has called North Lakeland home since 2008.

The costs of veterinary care can be uneasy for folks, but no worries. Berry Patch accepts cash, all major credit cards, and checks, and offers two payment services: Care Credit and Scratch Pay. Both options allow you to set up payment plans that fit your budget.

Whether you’re welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your family or have a pet emergency, Berry Patch Animal Clinic is equipped to handle it all. Call and make an appointment for your furry friend.

and Friday: 8am - 6pm / Tuesday-

Other Nominees: Walden Lake Animal Hospital / Animal Wellness Center

PLANT CITY’S 3-PEAT WINNER

The Barber Company Reigns Supreme

BY CIERRA CRAFT

Picture this: you walk into The Barber Company and are instantly met with good vibes and a warm welcome. The Barber Company is all about hanging out while getting a killer cut. Owners Brady Chason and Sean Colleran have nailed creating a shop where everyone knows your name, and the chatter is as good as the haircuts.

“We had a guy come in for a haircut for the first time the other day; after that, he said he felt like he was just hanging out with the guys,” said Chason. “He felt like he had been coming to The Barber Company for years. That’s exactly the kind of shop Sean and I wanted to create.”

But The Barber Company isn’t just for men who want fades and beard trims. It also features a boutique-style salon suite for the ladies, where they can get haircuts, color, nails, and waxing. The Barber Company has something for everyone.

The shop won FOCUS Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Award for Best Barbershop in 2023, 2024, and 2025. The plaques prove that Chason, Colleran, and the team are doing something right.

Editor Cierra Craft spent an afternoon at the shop talking to the guys about what it means to create a place where people leave looking sharp and feeling like they just caught up with old friends.

The Barber Company team (left to right): Grant Nichols, Sean Colleran, Mandy Morris, Tim Brown, Leah Creech, Rena DeLiguori, Taylor Hamilton, Alexis Rodriguez, Brooke Boyce, Jarrett Rappe, and Brady Chason.

Sean, how did you and Brady meet and come to open The Barber Company together?

Sean: Brady and I worked together at another shop for seven or eight years. We always wanted to own a shop. During the COVID pandemic, when barbershops were forced to close, we cut hair out of our homes. A local realtor, Mike Griffin, was leasing this building [316 North Alexander Street] out for Carl Brownlee. It sat vacant for a while, and the space needed a lot of work. We signed a five-year lease, and Brady and I began renovating the shop into The Barber Company. When barbershops were allowed to open again in Florida, we cut hair during the day, and once our kids went to bed at night, we came to the shop to work on the renovation.

“We have people from all walks of life as clients here—city leaders, entrepreneurs, pastors, retirees— the list goes on.”

Brady, when the shop opened, what were those first few weeks and months like?

Brady: When we opened, it was just Sean and I cutting hair, and we were busy; we realized we needed someone else in here to cut hair. Grant joined us and went to school with Taylor, so Taylor started working here. Then, Brooke hit us up to lease a chair. Tim was actually a client for a long time, got licensed, and started working here. Now, we have our newest member, Jarrett. Within one year of opening our doors, the barber side of the business was full. Then, we started renovating the salon suites. We were unsure who would lease those spaces, but we knew the concept of having a salon suite within the barbershop was a good one. Within a year of finishing those renovations, the salon suites were leased out to talented stylists and a licensed nail technician. It became exactly what Sean and I envisioned, but much faster than we expected.

Clients get pampered by Nail technician Mandy Morris is in the salon suites offering manicures and pedicures with nail polish, gel, and acrylics.

Leah Creech is a talent hairstylist, offering women’s cuts, all-over color, highlighting and more in the shop’s salon suite.

Jax is a Maltipoo and a certified service dog. The Barber Company owner Brady Chason said his little dog is more popular than any of the barbers at the shop. Jax is great in comforting kids who are nervous about the barber chair.

What services are offered at The Barber Company?

Sean: On the barbershop side, we offer boys’ and men’s hair services, beard trim, hot towel shave, and ear and nose wax services. The salon provides women’s and girls’ haircuts, hair styling, hair coloring, and waxing, and the nail tech offers manicures, pedicures, and acrylics. We do not provide color services in the barbershop, so we will refer them to the salon for color, and some men get manicures with our nail tech.

What kind of experience do you hope clients have here at The Barber Company?

Brady: We have people from all walks of life as clients here—city leaders, entrepreneurs, pastors, retirees— the list goes on. It’s not uncommon for clients to see someone they know while they’re here; this is Plant City, and everybody knows each other. Some days, we have

guys stop in, not to get a haircut but just to hang out. Sean and I wanted to create an atmosphere where people don’t just come in, get a haircut, and leave; we wanted a shop where clients feel like they’re hanging out with their friends. We offer complimentary beverages; we have something to offer everyone to unwind and relax when they’re here. Whether a client is in the barbershop or the salon, I hope they leave feeling better than when they arrived; if we can make someone laugh and the client leaves happier than when they arrived, then we did our job.

In a previous interview, you shared how much you love supporting Plant City. Tell me a bit more about that.

Brady: We take a lot of pride in Plant City and supporting the Rotary, the Chamber, the Elks, and Plant City Little League, just to name a few. We have televisions where we rotate business ads and flyers on the screens to promote local businesses. These clients support our business, and we want to help them, too. We’ve had people ask us for recommendations or referrals for local businesses. So, we are all about supporting Plant City small business organizations and participating in this community. Sean: I started cutting some boys’ hair when they were three years old; now they’re old enough to drive themselves here. I have clients where I cut their hair and their kids’ hair. Now, I’m cutting the grandkids’ hair. When kids come in and ask if we will sponsor their Little League team, buy an ad for Calendar Girl, or be an add-on for pigs at the Festival, we want to do those things to support the kids in our community.

Brady, tell us about your dog, Jax.

Brady: Jax is a Maltipoo; he is more popular than anyone here! He is a certified service dog, but he has also comforted kids nervous about being in the chair. Some kids will not get a haircut unless Jax is here, so we love having Jax in the shop. I joke that he is our guard dog and door greeter, too. He sits right next to the door and stays by my side.

Brooke Boyce and Tim Brown are two of the barbers in the shop offering mens hair services, ear and nose waxing, and beard trims.

Barber Grant Nichols specializes in men’s haircuts, beard shaping and razor shaving.

Friends of the Plant City Police Department Foundation

By Cierra Craft

The Friends of the Plant City Police Department Foundation, under the steadfast leadership of Gary Pike, Founder and Chairman, its Executive Board, and Alissa Cribbs, Foundation Director, operates as a vital bridge between the police force and the citizens it serves.

The Foundation, a non-profit entity, was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to provide supplemental support to the Plant City Police Department, enabling it to enhance its capabilities and community outreach beyond its municipal budget. Gary Pike, a long-time Plant City resident and businessman, recognized the need for a dedicated organization to bolster the department’s efforts.

Pike said: “City government takes great care of our first responders. The foundation offers extra-budgetary support for equipment, specialized training, events, and activities that their annual budget might not cover. For example, the foundation would not fund personnel, lethal weapons, or police vehicles. Recently, we purchased four new tactical bicycles to upgrade existing bikes. We also provided funding for officers to attend national police week in Washington, DC. Recently, we assisted in providing refreshments, lunches, and dinners for the officers working at the Strawberry Festival.”

During the Florida Strawberry Festival, PCPD officers worked 12-hour shifts alongside personnel from neighboring agencies. PCPD Detective Brittany English partnered with local restaurants to provide meals for the law enforcement officers, while Cribbs, thanks to the foundation’s generous donors, provided a variety of snacks and drinks for the 11-day event.

The Foundation is hosting several community events in the coming months and invites the public to show their support:

May 15: Business After Hours with the Plant City Chamber. Held at the Foundation office at 212 N Collins Street, the Friends of the PCPD

The community is invited to Business After Hours at the Foundation’s office at 212 N Collins Street. The event, in partnership with the Plant City Chamber, will be held on May 15.

Plant City Police Chief Richard Mills and Friends of Plant City Police Department Foundation Founder & Chairman Gary Pike at the foundation’s March 2025 Donor Meeting held at Johnson Barbeque.

Foundation will serve food and drinks and share with attendees more about its fundraising efforts for the fall.

September 20: Pickleball Palooza. Held at the Plant City Tennis Center on South Wilder Road, put your pickleball skills to the test for a fun day supporting those who protect and serve. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams.

November 7: 1st Annual Clay Shoot. Create a team with your friends and get ready for clay skeet shooting. More details to come at www.friendsofpcpd.com/upcomingevents

Plant City Police Chief Richard Mills said:

“The Friends of the Plant City Police Department Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting our department and enhancing the safety and well-being of our community. Through their generosity, we are able to provide vital resources that go beyond the city’s budget, such as advanced training, community outreach programs, and essential equipment.

This foundation allows us to build stronger relationships with the community and ensures that our officers are wellequipped to serve with excellence. The support we receive from local residents, businesses, and organizations makes a direct impact on our ability to protect and serve Plant City.

I encourage everyone to get involved and support the Foundation, every contribution helps us continue to make Plant City a safer, stronger, and more connected community.”

Looking ahead, the Foundation aims to develop new programs and initiatives that address the police department’s evolving needs. It also hopes to increase public awareness of its work, encouraging more residents to get involved and support its mission. To learn more about the Friends of Plant City Police Department Foundation, visit www.friendsofpcpd.com.

“City government takes great care of our first responders. The foundation offers extrabudgetary support for equipment, specialized training, events, and activities that their annual budget might not cover. ”

Foundation Director Alissa Cribbs made a shopping trip to Sam’s Club to purchase an abundance of snacks and drinks for law enforcement officers working at the Florida Strawberry Festival. Cribbs is pictures with PCPD Detective English and Lieutenant Fowler. These snacks and drinks would not have been possible without generous donations from local churches and small businesses.

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RISING STAR Kraus Marlee

By Taylor McDonald

She is beauty; she is grace. She stares challenges in the face. Plant City High School student Marlee Kraus has had more than her fair share of bumps in the road but doesn’t let that slow her down.

Since playing sports from when she was little, Marlee now completes swim, basketball, and flag football at her high school and has proven to be an incremental piece on each team.

“I’ve always had a full schedule due to sports, and I wouldn’t have it any other way,” said Kraus.

But last year, that all came to a screeching halt.

While playing basketball last year, she landed wrong on her knee, which split. That was the beginning of her nine-month journey to recovery.

“That was the most difficult time of my life. Not only did I struggle physically, but also mentally,” said Kraus. “It was a constant battle to get better and learn to walk again. Every day, I woke up and had to choose to get up instead of laying in bed and feeling sorry for myself.”

She attended physical therapy three times a week and had to work extra hard to regain muscle in her quadriceps. A year later, Kraus is back playing her favorite sport – flag football.

“Even though I only started playing flag

football a year ago, it quickly became my absolute favorite,” said Kraus. “It’s a different environment from other sports, and I love my coaches and teammates.”

In the last month, her JV team at PCHS has a record of 4 – 1 and is off to a great start.

“I play middle linebacker and love every minute of it,” said Marlee. “Even with my injury, I still feel solid, and my goal is to keep getting stronger and stronger as the season goes on.”

But Kraus isn’t just focused on her development in sports. She also works as a Unified Partner for the Special Olympics.

“I love the people I get to meet and play sports with through Special Olympics,” said Kraus. “The organizers prioritize the athletes and their development, but also that the volunteers and partners are having a good time.”

Aside from sports and Special Olympics, she is an award-winning interior designer and hopes to attend Florida State University in a few years and be accepted into their interior design program.

“I am so passionate about interior design and look up to residential designers like JoAnna Gaines,” said Kraus. “I’m excited for what the next chapter brings and the lives in my community in which I can make a difference.”

Durant High School Flag Football

By Taylor McDonald

Entering her second year as head coach of the Durant High School Flag Football team, Cherish Nelson wants to make her mark and help her players be their best.

“We started preparing for the season in August by creating a new playbook and connecting with students and former players to see our turnout,” said Nelson. “With most of our athletes involved in other sports during the school year, we haven’t been able to practice before then, so we prioritized conditioning until the season officially kicked off.”

Coach Cherish has nine returning players and four seniors — Nikeya King, Sevena Ivey, Camari Manzie, and Janiya Hutchinson.

“Our rusher, Nikeya King, has improved on the field and understood the assignment this year,” said Coach Nelson. “She’s already had an impact on her sacks this year, and her opponents have to adjust on their side to bring more blockers against Nikeya.”

Junior Captain Safety, Linebacker, and Wide

Receiver Layla White has strong leadership skills that show on and off the field. She is currently ranked in the top 5 for interceptions and is versatile enough to move around to become the most crucial position of that game.

“Our freshman wide receiver and safety, Brylie Edwards, has great awareness on defense and is very quick to cover the backfield,” said Coach Cherish. “Although she is one of the youngest on the varsity team, she’s fit in and provided speed for the offense. She already understands the game and how to read the quarterback when she plays safety.”

“Freshman Quarterback Lia Cobbs has played at the position since she was young and is very easy to coach,” said Coach Cherish. “She has great finesse when she throws the ball, and the athletes trust her to be the leader on the offense.”

Junior Captain Wide Receiver, Corner, Linebacker, and Rusher Jordan Smith is the spark of the team. She motivates her teammates and carries

the biggest smile. Jordan gives everything she has on the field, offensively and defensively, and knows how to get the job done. Wherever she is needed, she goes and gives it her all.

“Junior Wide Receiver and Corner Icyss Lopez is our quiet athlete who doesn’t talk much but is an explosive player on the defense and the offense,” said Coach Cherish. “She is an amazing athlete, and while she doesn’t have much to say, her actions speak loudly. She loves the game, and it shows.”

“Our goal this season, as we are a young team overall, is to provide a safe space for our athletes to improve individually, as well as for the team,” said Cherish. “The one thing my assistant coach, Coach Soule, and I are trying to encourage the players to remember is to have a 30-second memory. Don’t dwell on the past. Fix the issues and be a team player.”

Meet the Maker:

Mark and Rachel Dummeldinger Red Calliope Art Gallery

By Taylor McDonald

Beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder, and Rachel Dummeldinger’s mission is to show that beauty to the world. This month, Rachel and her husband, Mark, open the doors to their Red Calliope Art Gallery – a collection of work from local artists, including her own.

“Art has always been a love of mine,” said Rachel. “It all started years ago with a Bob Ross painting kit and my three young kids.”

Over the years, Rachel made time here and there to work on her craft, but raising a family is no easy feat.

“My art was put on the back burner until the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown,” said Rachel. “Then all I had was time on my hands.”

Mark cleaned out the space he had for his office and made it over to become Rachel’s studio. Then, she got to work.

“I like to say that’s the time that I took myself to school to figure out my art and what I wanted,” said Rachel. “I ended up creating so much that I ran out of room and had to start doing art shows to free up studio space.”

Mark and Rachel spent the next couple of years showcasing her art and his woodworking at different art shows and exhibitions, but her dream was to have a permanent space of her own to share.

“I went to my husband and told him about my dream of a space in downtown Plant City, and

he immediately agreed and started looking,” said Rachel. “We got so lucky and found the perfect spot quickly.”

Her dream has come alive with their grand opening on March 21.

“The gallery is a space to provide enjoyment and art education for the community,” said Rachel. “It features nine award-winning local artists and a diverse collection of artwork. We have two sculptors, a female goldsmith, and anything else you can think of – surrealism, abstract, still-life, portraits, florals, and scratch art.”

In their beautiful space with 13-foot ceilings, visitors can experience and enjoy the art in the gallery while sipping on cocktails and mocktails from their champagne bar, Rouge.

“My goal is to provide a space in the community for people of all ages to learn more about art and be encouraged to express themselves,” said Rachel. “Too often in this society, kids are discouraged from making art since the stigma is that you make no money or have a future, but there’s so much talent out there that’s yet to be discovered. I want to help the next generation of artists find their voice and encourage them not to give up on their dreams.”

Stop by the Red Calliope Art Gallery at 109 S Evers Street, Wednesday through Sunday, to experience this unique space, and be sure to say hello to Rachel and Mark.

C

Leaders in Faith

Jeff Jackson

By Cheryl Johnston

Since moving here in 1980 from Ft. Lauderdale, Jeff and Barbra Jackson enjoy the small-town vibe and many kind friends they’ve come to know in Plant City. Together, they’ve served 25 years on the Praise Team at GracePoint while also being involved in small groups, Sunday school, and various leadership and committee roles. “But,” Jeff explained, “our joy always…is being plugged into the music and its special way of sharing God’s love and grace to others. Music is a powerful and creative way to express ideas and feelings in ways that reach folks deep down.”

Now retired from career work, they like “meeting with friends occasionally for breakfast or lunch at some of the great little restaurants around town.” For relaxation, they hang out and make special memories with their kids, three grandkids, and one great-grand (with another due soon). And of course, “listening to or playing good music with good music buddies and friends” will always be a huge enjoyment.

Tell us a little about your early life and family connections.

Being the first baby born in Broward County, FL, in January of 1955, I was pictured in the paper with my beautiful mom holding me. And I still have the picture to prove it! My lovely wife, Barbra Kaus Jackson, whom I met during my junior year of high school (FLHS), was born in the same hospital just seven months prior to my birth. After dating for four years, we married while attending Florida Bible College. We were blessed with a sweet daughter (Erin) and an awesome son (Eric) two years later. We moved from Ft. Lauderdale to Plant City in 1980 and love being a part of our GracePoint Plant City church family. Barb’s career was in real estate and mine involved 20 years in Physical Therapy equipment sales/service and 17years with a private EMS company.

How did you come to faith in Jesus?

Our family rarely attended church, but in my junior high school years, a cute little blonde invited me to attend a revival at hers. There, I heard the good news about Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who came into this world, lived a perfect life, and then was crucified on a cross to pay the penalty for all the wrong I had ever done and would ever do, and then promised me life everlasting. It was this beautiful offer of having peace with God, and the peace of God, that drew me to place my trust and hope in Him.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

Being part of a team with others, whether at work, church, or in a music group, provides a great opportunity to build relationships and friendships, while working together side-by-side toward a common goal for the good of others. And hopefully, that ultimately brings honor and glory to our amazing God.

Do you have a favorite Scripture passage?

Boy, there are so-o-o many wonderful passages, but the wisdom found in Proverbs 3:5-6 has always been an encouragement in my faith walk. “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”

What would you advise those considering the Christian faith?

Try to be honest with and about yourself. We all carry a lot of baggage. Jesus tells us, “Come unto Me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest...” He came to take our guilt and shame, to forgive all our wrongs, and to give us a new life of hope and peace. We need always to come to Him with our mess ups, no matter how bad they are, and remember He is always waiting with open arms to forgive. He loves and will never leave or forsake us. Be willing to take a step of faith, to trust Him for who He is and what He’s done for us. You will never regret it!

All are welcome at GracePoint Plant City, a very warm, friendly and caring community of believers. Come join the folks who serve in many ways, giving of their time, gifts and talents to help and benefit others. Visit in person at 1107 Charlie Griffin Road. For additional information, phone 813-759-9383 or visit gracepointpc.org, where services are also livestreamed.

- Kelly, Plant City Resident

Proudly Serving All Of Florida.

Candy’s Corner

By Candy Owens

Here comes Peter Cottontail, hoppin’ down the bunny trail, hippity-hoppity Easter’s on its way. Bringing every girl and boy, baskets full of Easter joy, hippity-hoppity Easter’s on its way.

Baskets full of Easter Joy, Hey! That meant candy, toys, coloring books, crayons, decorating Easter eggs, hunting for Easter eggs, yummy Easter lunch, and a new Easter outfit complete with shoes, socks, gloves, hat, pocketbook, and dress.

As a child, I was always excited about the eggs, candy, and toys, but the part about the new dress, not so much. That meant trying on dress after dress until my mother found exactly what she was looking for. My mother always insisted my sister and I wear matching dresses in a pastel color, such as yellow or pink. Our hats, shoes, socks, gloves, and pocketbooks would be white. Our hats would usually be adorned with ribbons and flowers. I remember one year our petticoats had jingle bells attached to the lace. I’m sure those jingle bells were adorable, but they ended up being way too noisy for church.

When my sister and I were toddlers back in the early 1960s, my mother would take us to see Mr. and Mrs. Tunall, who owned and operated The Tot Shop on Reynolds Street for all our apparel needs. The store was renamed in later years to Lad and Lassie. When we were a little older my mother would take us to Lakeland to Maas Brothers or to Ruby’s Tot and Teen Shop at Southgate Shopping Center. If mother didn’t find what she was looking for, then we were off to Farner’s Children’s Wear in Tampa. The Bessie Edelstein family owned this upscale clothing and shoe store for children at 1918 S. Dale Mabry Hwy. The store served south Tampa customers from the 1930s until its closing in 2001.

Once our Easter outfits were all set, then the real fun began with the dyeing of Easter Eggs. My mother would boil two dozen eggs the night before. My sister and I could hardly wait as we watched her cover the kitchen counters with newspaper. Mom would put one dozen eggs on one side of the counter for my sister and one dozen eggs on the other side of the counter for me. In those days we siblings were very territorial and would just perish at the thought of one of our eggs getting mixed up. Next, Mom open the Paaz Easter Egg Color Fun Kit. Back in the 1960s the kit sold for 29

cents and came with a handy wire egg dipper, funny face paste-ons, alphabet stickers, cutout airplane, four wrap-around-the-egg outfits, punch-out drying tray that held six eggs, and a cellophane packet of six color tablets. In the 1970s a wax crayon was introduced to the package, which allowed any design drawn on the egg to resist the dye. My favorite part was watching my mother drop the dye tablets in the cups of vinegar water. We thought it was so cool how they fizzed into the most beautiful colors. My sister and I worked very hard at trying to create what we thought were going to be the most beautiful Easter eggs ever. When we finished creating our masterpiece eggs, I would ask Mother if I could have a sip of the Easter egg dye. Her reply was always, ”Absolutely not!” My mother would place two separate baskets on the coffee table, one for each of us. You would have thought we sisters were guarding jewel encrusted Faberge eggs or something.

Speaking of drinking Easter egg dye, well… one year my best friend JeanAnn Weaver invited my sister Karen and I over to dye eggs with her and her little brother Curt. Mrs. Weaver sat us outside at JeanAnn’s little kiddie picnic table on their patio. We had a great time decorating the eggs, but once again I was overcome with the desire to drink the dye. When it was time to clean up the mess, I talked Curt into picking out a color that looked good enough to drink. He selected the orange because he said it looked like orange drink. I chose the blue just because it looked good. Once JeanAnn and Karen were inside, Curt and I grabbed our cups and ran behind the Weaver’s aluminum shed and proceeded to drink the dye. Needless to say, we both took a huge gulp and ended up spitting the dye halfway across the yard. Curt and I both learned that even though the colors were beautiful, the dye tasted nothing like orange soda. We never got in trouble for drinking the dye that day because Mrs. Weaver said that soon enough we would have punishment enough. HAHA!

When Easter morning finally arrived my sister and I would wake and run into the living room to see what the Easter bunny had left behind. We would always find a beautiful basket with a stuffed animal, a hollow chocolate bunny, a coloring book, crayons, a jump rope, jacks and a ball, jellybeans, chocolate foil-covered eggs that we called football eggs, and our favorite of all, the robin’s eggs.

Before we knew it, it was time to get dressed for church. My mother dressed me first and had me stand in the living room to wait for her and my sister to dress. She would tell me to stand still, do not go outside, do not sit down, and most of all do not touch anything. Once

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they were dressed, my father would have us pose for photos in front of the curtains with our Easter baskets, out on the front porch, in front of the car, and then do it all over again with his movie camera. He would even film mother putting us in the car and driving away. My father would stay behind and hide the Easter eggs in our yard. He would get the ham in the oven and then get dressed to meet us at church. During the Easter service I can remember my mother reaching over, telling me to get the ribbon from my hat out of my mouth and to leave the little elastic chin strap from my hat alone. She would also tell my sister and I to be very careful with our white patent leather shoes and not mark them up. My father would polish our new shoes with Jubilee wax polish the night before Easter.

When church was over we rushed home to hunt for eggs. Since there were always several eggs not found in the hunt, my father tried to make a mental note as to where he had hidden most. Some weeks later while doing yardwork, he would find them in the flower bushes. I’m sure that is why my mother had us decorate so many eggs.

Easter lunch was always a sight to behold. My parents would bake a ham that was scored with cloves. Once on the platter, the ham was decorated with crab apples and pickled peaches. There would be potato salad, fresh green beans, corn on the cob, and squash along with a relish tray of tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, pickles, green onions and olives of green and black. We’d also have rolls, fresh applesauce, an Easter egg cake from Kirby’s Bakery, and a fresh homemade coconut cake.

My paternal grandparents would always join us for lunch. I remember how grandfather would give the blessing and how grandmother doted over her coconut cake and was so thrilled her Easter lilies were in full bloom on Easter morning.

Long gone are the patent leather shoes, the white hats with ribbons and funny flowers, the petticoats with jingle bells, and my grandparents, but every time I see an Easter lily or bow my head in prayer, I think of granny and granddaddy Owens and I know just how blessed I am.

I’ll leave you this month with this thought:

May God bless you at Easter and keep you all year through.

May God give you all the faith it takes to make your dreams come true.

May His love and wisdom always help to guide you on your way.

May His light shine down upon you now to bless your Easter Day.

March 28

Last Friday in Downtown: Berry Street Bash

5:00-9:00PM

Enjoy food trucks, bounce houses, and shop from handmade artisans as Plant City wraps up strawberry season.

McCall Park @ 100 N Collins Street

Cost: Free Info: plantcitymainstreet.org

Tuesdays in April

Line Dancing Class with Michelle Richardson

5:30PM

Choreographed line dance related to all types of music. Enjoy repeated sequence steps. This fun group-inspired class will make you eager to learn line dancing basics while staying active.

Bruton Memorial Library @ 302 McLendon St Cost: Free Info: (813) 757-9215

Apr 14

Mar 22

History, Whiskey, & Wine

1:00PM

Celebrate the Plant City History Center & Photo Archives’ 25th anniversary at this street festival in downtown Plant City! Enjoy a sample of whiskey, wines, and food samplings!

PCHCPA @ 106 S Evers Street

Cost: $50 per ticket Info: 813-754-1578 or libby@plantcityphotoarchives.org

March 29

Jazz Under the Trees

10AM to 6PM

Cherish Historic Bealsville community with the sounds of smooth tunes, good vibes, and great company. Tickets include BBQ dinner, parking, vendor access, event entry.

Glover School @ 5104 Horton Road

Cost: $55 Info: (813) 737-1352

April 4 & 5; April

8

City of Plant City Municipal Election

April 4: 9AM to 5PM; April 8: 7AM to 7PM

Camryn Henry & Jason Jones are the candidates in the race for Plant City Commission, Group 2. Plant City residents are encouraged to vote for their representative. April 4 & 5 is early voting, & April 8 is Election Day.

Plant City City Hall @ 302 W Reynolds Street Info: https://www.votehillsborough.gov/

Thursday in April

BabyTime

10:30AM & 11:30AM

Bond with your baby through stories, bouncy rhymes and songs in this 30-minute lapsit program that introduces early literacy skills and encourages language development. For children ages 0-18 months and their caregiver.

Bruton Memorial Library @ 302 McLendon St Cost: Free Info: (813) 757-9215

PC Garden Club

April Meeting

9:30AM

The Club welcomes new members and guests with coffee and refreshments at all times. The club looks forward to an exciting spring season with a special guest speaker for this month’s event.

FUMC @ 303 N. Evers Street

Cost: Free Info: traceyk@aol.com

Saturdays & Sundays in April

April 11-13

10AM to 3PM

Celebrate all things blueberries with fresh blueberry u-pick, a blueberry shortcake eating contest, and family-friendly activities like camel rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, and local vendors.

Keel Farms @ 5202 Thonotosassa Road

Cost: Free entry; Parking $10 per car Info: (813) 752-9100

Vintage Market Days® is an upscale market featuring original art, antiques, home décor, and more.

Grimes Ag Center @ 2508 Oak Avenue

Cost: $5 to $30 Info: tampa@vintagemarketdays.com

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