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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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

New Orthopedic Wing 301 N. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563 southﬂoridabaptist.com For a referral to one of our orthopedic surgeons, call 813-443-2018

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

CONTENTS

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 4 - APRIL 2010

FAMILY OF COMMUNITY MAGAZINES

PublisHEr Mike Floyd officE MANAGEr Dede Floyd coPY EDiTor Lynne Warren

ONTHECOVER

ADVErTisiNG DirEcTor Brent Simmons sAlEs Sophia Hyde Sheryl Vitelli Holly Far mer RJ Johnston

DAN AND JANET RAULERSON

lakeland edITIOn ITIOn

ProDucTioN Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena focusTV Kara Manelli

SUN ‘n FUN It’s Time for Sun ‘n Fun

DisTribuTioN Doug McGee Belva DeVane PHoToGrAPHErs Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser

april 2010

greater winter haven eDitiOn

Brandon EdITIon

Gonzalez The Center for

Retina and Macular Disease A Vision of Tomorrow’s Technology, TodAy

Lake County edition

souTh TaMPa ediTion

Sunnyland Antique Also in this issue:

Boat Show on Lake Lake Dora Dora on

Pig on the Pond Leesburg Artfest Mount Dora Crafts & Collectibles

loCal

Spring is here and this time of year brings a variety of events and activities. In our local section this month we cover everything for the 3rd Annual YMCA Luau fundraiser to our local Little Miss Plant City Pageant and to top it off with a heartwarming story of neighbors helping neighbors.

BAYCATIONS Regional Vacations On And Off A Budget

THOSE LEFT BEHIND Losing Loved Ones To Cancer

HEALTHY EATING

Webb A Survivor’s Tale

Go Organic To Avoid Illness

FOCUS Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa

FOCUSTV

MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories New Episode Every Wednesday

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

featUre

ProDucTioN iNTErN Scott King

It’s hard to believe that this is our 100th issue. For more than nine years FOCUS has been bringing positive, community based news to the folks of Plant City. Time sure fl ies when you’re having fun. Join us this month as we take a trip down memory lane.

SPotlight intervieW

Local businessman and Vice Mayor, Dan Raulerson wasn’t born and raised in Plant City but has adopted our town as his own. We put the FOCUS Spotlight on Raulerson this month to find out a little bit more about his personal interests and his contributions to our community.

The dog days of summer are fast approaching. Fortunately, right here in Plant City is a great place to cool off with an ice-cold treat. Check out locally owned and operated Twistee Treat for a variety of snacks and goodies.

dining Profile

Although the name says a lot it certainly doesn’t tell the whole story. Panera Bread’s reputation for delicious baked goods is well deserved but there is a lot more to this establishment. Check out our dining profi le this month to see what they have to offer.

67 - home guide 82 - athlete of the Month 86 - Seniors of the Month 90 - al reuchel

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

bUSineSS Profile

12 - talk of the town 42 - did you Know? 44 - Plant City Chamber of Commerce

coNTribuTors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Sherrie Mueller Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Natalie Sweet Felix Haynes EDiToriAl iNTErNs Tanya Albert Currie Dickerson

OWN YOUR OWN FOCUS MAGAZINE

Licensed territories are available. If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine call Mike Floyd at 813-707-8783 ext. 26

sTAff WriTErs Cheryl Johnston Carolyn Miller Brian West Joe Bowles Steven Richardson Krystal knowles Brittany Cer ny Derek Maul Sherri Robinson Mitchell Var num Debra Lucia Brittany Cer ny

92 - derek Maul 106 - event Calendar 110 - Just for fun

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at editorial@floydpublications.com. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. FOCUS Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to FOCUS Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

published by:

floyd publications, Inc.

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

Your Smile

The most attractive thing you can put on.

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Plastic, Maxillofacial Reconstructive Surgery Jack A. Davidson, DDS, MD, PLLC

Two locations to better serve you 623 East Alexander St., Plant City, FL • Phone #: (813) Specialty: Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

571-1516

www.davidsonsurgery.com

Brandon Location: 1165 Nikki View Drive, Brandon, FL 33511

MEMBERSHIPS INCLUDE: Board Certified In Plastic Surgery The American Dental Association • The American Medical Association American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons The American College of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons The Florida Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons The American Society of Dental Anesthesiologists The Florida Dental Society of Anesthesiology Board Certified in Dental Anesthesiology foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

letter from

THE Publisher

Visit our web site: www.feltonsmarket.com

MEATS

PRODUCE

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SPECIALIZING IN SPECIAL CUTS OF MEAT

Low cholesterol items: Smoked Turkey Wings Smoked Turkey Necks Fresh Turkey Tails & Gizzards Smoked Turkey Tails Fresh Goat Fresh Mullet/Catfish/Perch Fresh Dressed, Grade A, Premium, Ice-Packed Poultry Leg Quarters 40-lb. box Fresh IBP Small and Med. Spare Ribs Fresh IBP Lite Spare Ribs “Great for Barbecuing” Fajitas by the package or the box

No Order Too Big Or Too Small Largest Spice Selection In Town One Stop Shopping for all your large parties, family reunions and church events

SPECIAL SERVICES AVAILABLE INCLUDE: Western Union, Money Orders and Wiring Sevices Plantains, Green Bananas (by the box or lb.) Fresh Local Produce Daily Fresh Greens Available Daily

GROCERY Paradise Fruit in 5-lb. box (available All Year Round)

WIDE SELECTION OF: #10 Can And Gallon Size Items Martin’s Potato Bread Entenmann’s Bakery products Goya • Lisy • La Costena • San Marco’s and La Dona Tortillas

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

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

There is a parable Jesus shares in Mark 4 about a farmer who planted seeds. Most of you are probably familiar with how the story goes. He threw out many seeds. Some landed on the road and were eaten, others fell in the gravel and slightly spouted, but couldn’t last without roots, and others fell into weeds. However, some were planted in good soil and flourished. This story is about the Word, but I think it can be applied in other contexts as well. Being an entrepreneur, I am always coming up with new ideas. My mind can’t help but constantly process different ventures that could lead to great opportunities. Many of those ideas are like the seeds that landed on the road, and nothing ever comes of them. Others I may begin to invest time, energy or resources into, but they never really blossom. Like many other entrepreneurs, I have my stories of ventures attempted and failed, just like the seeds taken over by the weeds. However, when I look at Focus Magazine, not only is it a blossoming seed, but it’s like a tree that the more it ages, the deeper the roots keep growing. Over the last eight and a half years, Focus has had the opportunity to feature so many incredible people who have greatly contributed to the success of this city. Plant City is composed of wonderful soil to raise a family and to plant your future, which is why we returned here to my wife’s hometown. I saw a need for a hometown magazine, and from the very beginning we received tremendous community support. I was floored when I found out the April 2010 issue would be the 100th issue of Focus Magazine. The feature this month was written by Lynne Warren, who walks you through the story of where it all began and what it has become. Those who have ever experienced a staff meeting with me know that whenever I get that binder with year one of Focus Magazine, the reminiscing ensues. There are in-depth interviews with people who are no longer with us. Stories and events covered that become so easy to forget. I met a woman who told me she has collected every single issue of Focus Magazine since it began. She said, “It’s like a monthly yearbook for my town. Every issue I grab I see people I know.” That’s the best way I’ve ever heard it described. Looking through old issues stirs up those same emotions as looking through your old yearbook. But much like a newly planted tree, eight years is rather young. We have started growing branches and have spread into other markets, as well as now offering FocusTV. Our roots are deeply planted in Plant City and we hope to continue growing stronger. Thank you, Plant City. Focus is absolutely nothing without the support from this town and endless positive community stories. I don’t think we will ever run out of articles to write about selfless people generously giving their time and resources to making this a better community.

Mike floyd Publisher

It’s that time of year again…

Winter is almost over and Spring is near, which means it’s time for The Second Annual Tribute to Life Golf Tournament, which will again be held at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club, 2001 Clubhouse Dr, Plant City, Florida 33566

on Saturday, May 1st, 2010, at 8:30am. We would like to thank all of you that supported our cause last year, and we hope that you will help us make this year’s tournament even bigger and better than ever before. The proceeds from the tournament go to provide for 4 charitable organizations that all focus on helping youth groups in Central Florida and in Alabama. Last year we were able to give The 88-Wayz Foundation $8,000, The Highland Park Church of Nazarene Youth Group $8,000, Teen Challenge $4,000, and The Plant City Church of God Youth Program $4,000 as well. For up to date news, information and registration forms visit the Tribute to Life website at www.tributetolife.org

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

Happy Birthday

    

Love Dad, Momma and Zane Show off your Style with new cabinetS Add beauty and additional storage space in your home!

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beautiful Showroom Pam Brester Designer

Granite & Marble Gallery 813-707-5600 • Cell: 863-670-2092 1103 Goldfinch Drive, Plant City, FL 33566

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

TalkOF THE Town

PCHS RELAY FOR LIFE

Plant City High School has many events planned to raise funds for Plant City’s “Game on Against Cancer” Relay. This year our team’s name is the Candyland team. The Cosmetology department will host our 4th Annual Fairy Princess Makeover tent in memory of Megan Carpenter at the Relay event itself from 6-9 pm. It is an adorable tent all dressed up like a fairy princess castle. The Cosmetology department has also invited stylists from Plant City’s finest salons. These fine professionals donate their time year after year for Relay offering haircuts for $20. Haircuts for Life will be held from 6-9pm next to the princess tent. I am especially proud as most of these talented stylists were students of mine in years past. We have been the top team for three years! :) The huge increase in our total is largely due to the fact that many students loved Megan Carpenter, a student of ours who lost her fight in 2007. Call Laurel Ritenbaugh at 757-9370 x 268 with any questions about T-shirts, haircuts for life or fairy princess makeovers.

PCCC ANNOUNCES NEW REHEARSAL SPACE The Plant City Community Choir (PCCC) announces a new rehearsal space beginning in May, and invites new members to join the group for its Summer Season and Fourth of July Concerts. PCCC invites singers of all musical backgrounds and abilities to join others interested in challenging and engaging choral work. Current members range in age from 16 to 78. Their choral experience levels and abilities to read music include beginners and very accomplished singers. The group is particularly looking for Tenors, Basses, and Baritones. Singers who are at least 16 years old and are willing to commit to rehearsals and performances are asked to come to the next rehearsal of the 2010 Summer Season at 6:30 p.m. on May 3, 2010, at First Presbyterian Church — 404 West Reynolds Street. Membership is open until May 17, 2010. Questions may be directed to PCCC Secretary Lark Underwood at 813-757-0212 or SECRETARY@PCCOMMUNITYCHOIR.COM. See the Plant City Community Choir website at WWW.PCCOMMUNITYCHOIR.COM.

TuNE iN To focusTV Powered by

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

City s Plant 76 is M le t w Lit y - Sho it Plant C

Jordan Prestwo od

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local TAlK of THE ToWN

NATURES CLASSROOM

Nature’s Classroom is celebrating Earth day by hosting an open house event on Saturday, April 24th and Sunday, April 25th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This event will allow the general public to visit the school normally reserved for the environmental education of all the Sixth grade public school students in Hillsborough County. The event will feature nature art displays and sales, live music, children’s activities, live animal handling, food, and a variety of environmentally focused exhibits. Visitors may tour the new animal compound and native plant garden. There is a $5.00 entry donation per vehicle. Nature’s Classroom is located at 13100 Verges Road, Thonotosassa, Florida 33592, just 1.5 miles east of I-75 of the Fletcher Avenue Exit. For more information, please call 813-987-6969.

FOCUS MONTHLY GIVEAWAY WINNERS

Tracy and Jason Strunk were presented the trip giveaway by Rhonda Hardee and H. Fry. The Strunks won a 3 night Bahama getaway for registering for the Focus Deals program. Visit www. thefocusmagazine.com to get registered for the next trip giveaway or text “focus” to 32075.

HIGH HEEL

THE ARTISTRY LEARNS NEW TECHNIQUES

HIKE

The Artistry brought in Patrick Fitzwater,Redken National Performing Artist, to teach a class on the latest hair designs, color and techniques. Chaz Hoffman, Redken Artist, assisted him. Patrick teaches at the New York Redken Exchange.

CALLING ALL BEAUTY CONTESTANTS The Miss Plant City USA and Miss Plant City Teen USA pageant will be held on May 2nd at the Red Rose Inn & Suites Grand Ballroom. Applications will be accepted for young ladies between the ages of 13-18 (Teen) and 18-25 (Miss) for more information please call 813-393-7442 or visit www.crowncoutureproductions.net or www. missfloridausa.com.

ABWA DIVA’S NIGHT OUT

The American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) Plant City Chapter will be kicking off the inaugural Diva’s Night Out at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person and include heavy hors d’oeuvres, the Diva Spa & Salon (with nail art, massages, hair play, and make-up consultant), line dancing lessons, a Diva Dance Off, boutique shopping, “Funny Divas” comedy show, Girlfriend photos, Swag bags, blackjack and more! For more information contact Karen Hurst at 813-763-1423.

CONGRATULATIONS TYLER OWENS On February 27, 2010, at the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, William “Tyler” Owens was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout. Tyler is the son of Sheila and Nicodemus Wiersma of Plant City and Stephen G. Owens of Valrico. Tyler joined troop 744 of Plant City, FL as a cub scouts and moved to Troop 14 as a second year Webeloe were he earned the Arrow of Light. Tyler has held several leadership positions in Troop 14 including Chaplain’s aid, Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader and is currently a Troop Guide. Tyler has earned 25 merit badges and is a member of the Order of the Arrow. His favorite merit badge is the Climbing Merit badge. Tyler is 16 years old and is currently a sophomore at Plant City High School. He is an Honor Student who currently holds a 4.3 grade point average. He recently scored an 1820 on his SAT and a 195 on his PSAT. Tyler has participated in the Duke Scholar Program and is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars.

On Monday, April 26th, Carrabbas is teaming up with the Plant City High Heel Hike, which raises money for Autism. Come to Carrabba’s from 4pm - 8pm to sign up a team, we will have lots of High Heel Hike information for who ever is interested in starting a team or learning how you can help, everyone is invited. For every grilled item sold that night from 4pm-8pm, Carrabba’s is giving back $3.00 per dish to help, Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue, raise awareness for Autism. Jules Burt will be heading up the High Heel Hike in Plant City June 12th, so come on down to Carrabba’s Monday April 26th from 4-8, hope to see you there..

For his Eagle project, Tyler constructed a Beach Volleyball Court for the kids at the Florida Baptist Children’s Home in Lakeland, FL. The court is located next to the pool area.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local focus

Plant City Community Choir Performs at Epcot by C h e r y l J o h n s to n

Young men and their passions can accomplish great things. The Plant City Community Choir members can attest to this. Because of his passion for music, the choir’s founder and director, Joe Mendolia, is spreading a little joy in our town and beyond through a diverse group of dedicated amateur musicians. In the process, their practice and perseverance has produced some remarkable results. For example, the PC Community Choir performed in Epcot’s “Candlelight” presentation as part of the combined massed choir on December 26, 2009. In their first year of existence, they were selected by Disney from among almost 1,000 auditioning groups to be one of the 300 to entertain park visitors. This is no small accomplishment. Mendolia explained that once selected, choir members must memorize 15 songs selected by Disney, so they can quickly mesh with the other choirs performing at the same time. On their chosen performance date, members are granted free entrance to the park, a sack lunch, and 45 minutes to rehearse as the larger choir. Upcoming performances will be well worth the watch (and listen). Relay for Life - April 23 PCHS football stadium Members encourage friends and family to join. Carol Byers likes the way “everyone is so joyful

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

and uplifted during practices and performances. Shirley Sheppard sees membership as a great opportunity to make new friends, learn new music, and contribute to the community.” As for his music passion, the 22-year-old Plant City native Mendolia has been feeding it for most of his life. He was recruited in his junior year at PCHS by the then school choir director Rob Nicholson, who advised him to immerse himself in musical activities. These included singing in the All State Honor Choir in high school and four different ensembles in college. He earned an associates degree in music education from Union University in Tennessee and will complete a masters degree in 2012 in American History. Mendolia founded the choir in late 2008 with 12 members, and in fact, it’s the first he’s directed. Now 30 members perform with careers ranging from college students to retirees, teachers to nurses, bankers to ministers, and like Mendolia, even substitute teachers. He appreciates members’ dedication, saying “I never thought it would turn into this – they teach me as much as I teach them. “ The choir needs sponsors and more voices. For information, phone Mendolia at 813-263-4091 or visit www.pccommunitychoir. com. Mark your calendars for June 15, the next information day (location to be announced).

The Plant City Community Choir ensemble group, directed by Joe Mendolia, sings in McCall Park in the historic district of downtown. Photo courtesy of Joe Mendolia

Plant City Community Choir members gather for a casual photo before their performance at Epcot’s 2009 Christmas program. Photo courtesy of Joe Mendolia

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local focus

Capturing ‘Little Miss’ Moments in Time A Photo Project to Continue through the Years by B r i a n W e s t

Little Miss Plant City is sponsored by the Plant City Jr. Women’s Club, and has existed for at least the past 41 years. Carly Knox, the 2007 Little Miss Plant City Queen, is the 12 year old daughter of Ben and Keri Knox – and she has an idea. She wants to start a project; “A project that would continue throughout the years.” she told me. She thought that since the Florida Strawberry Festival keeps the historic photos of the former Strawberry Queen’s and their Courts as a record, it would be a good idea to do the same thing for the Queen and Court of Little Miss Plant City, to get more information to document the history of the event. So Knox

is working with the Plant City Photo Archives to gather photos to create this historic record, and get a process in place to ‘continue throughout the years.’ Problem is, they’re not sure how many, if any, of the older photos may exist. To complicate things a bit further, they’re not sure how long the event has existed. They know it’s existed since at least 1969, but there is some speculation that it may have been around longer. The effort gets a little more difficult because they’ll have to depend on past Queen’s and Court members, and/or those that may have attended the event and taken photos. They’ll begin by using the

list of former Queens to create a mailing list. Former Queens will receive a letter from Knox, asking for photos. They believe they have dependable addresses for about a quarter of those on the list. They’re looking for two types of photos; one with only the Queen, and one with the Queen and Court. As you might imagine, information is a key part of this effort, so Knox and the Photo Archives need some basic information included on the back of the photo; the year, the location, the names of those in the photo, including their title – Queen, First Maid and Court Member. When you think about it, this effort should gather at least 200 names. Once the photos are gathered, the

Pictured in the photo is Carly Michelle Knox (2007 Little Miss Plant City) and Candy Owens Photo Archives Administrative Assistant.

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Photo Archives intends to create a permanent display. If you have any photos of the Little Miss Plant City Queen and Court from years past, or know someone who does, please share them with the Photo Archives. The Photo Archives does not keep the photos. The photos submitted will be scanned and given back. If you’d like to hand deliver your photos to the Photo Archives, they are open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You can also mail your photos to 106 S. Collins St, Plant City, FL 33566. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Candy Owens with the Photo Archives at 813-754-1578.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local focus

Always Keeping Up

with the Latest Trends!

Photo by Matt Gomez

National Day of Prayer Opens Three Day “Heal Me Crusade” S t o r y by K y m b e r ly A . S ta r r

The Artistry brought in Patrick Fitzwater, Redken National Performing Artist, to teach a class on the latest hair designs, color and techniques. Chaz Hoffman, Redken Artist, assisted him. Patrick teaches at the New York Redken Exchange.

1505 South Alexander Street • Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.717.7700 18

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

When Mike and Tina Solomon’s nine year old son was diagnosed with a life threatening, cancerous, brain tumor, they turned to their Lord Jesus Christ in prayer and in faith for his healing. When Mike, their son, miraculously and fully recovered from his cancer in May 2008, the Solomon family felt a calling in their lives to let others know about the power of prayer. Because of this miracle, the first “Heal Me Crusade” was held last year. Fittingly this year, the National Day of Prayer will be held on Thursday May 6, 2010, at Plant City Stadium at 7PM. This event will open the crusade which will continue May 7th and 8th at the same time and place. Admission is free each night. The National Day of Prayer is a non-denominational event for the community to unite in prayer for their military, politicians, and other government officials. The Honorable Mayor Rick Lott of Plant City will be on the stage, along with Christian recording artist Rita Springer, Pastor Tony Stewart of City Life Church Tampa,

and musical artist Kaci Stewart. This is only the beginning of a three night event which will feature preaching, music, and a nightly call for prayer, salvation, and healing. On Friday, evangelist Dr. T.L. Lowery will be ministering and worship will be led by the Apostle J.L. Cash and “Praise”, who frequently perform at the House of Blues in Orlando. Saturday night the crusade will conclude with preaching by Bishop M. Thomas Propes, South Carolina State Overseer for the Church of God Cleveland. Music by Rita Springer will be featured each night. The organizers of the event are confident that the National Day of Prayer coinciding with the beginning of the Second Annual Heal Me Crusade will be a time of harvest for the community. Those who attend can look forward to seeing the name of Jesus Christ glorified. All are welcome to come in faith expecting to see a display of God’s power and healing in their lives. For more information go to: www.healmecrusade.com

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local focus

First Baptist Church of Plant City 4th Annual Egg Drop Festival by B r i t ta n y C e r n y

On the cool, crisp morning of Saturday, March, 20, members of First Baptist Church of Plant City woke early and headed out to the church’s south campus for the fourth annual egg drop festival. Members began setting up tents and tables, preparing themselves for the day’s events. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Plant City community members could experience the day’s activities, take a stroll through the “Miracle of Easter Walk” and walk away with a bag full of candy-filled Easter eggs at the day’s end. This year’s celebration included bounce houses, face painting, hair coloring, temporary tattooing, rock wall climbing and an egg hunt extravaganza involving 50,000 eggs dropped onto the egg hunting fields by a helicopter, all of it free for families. Families were lined up well before the festival opened, waiting to get their children registered. Included in the registration was a free meal ticket for the child, a ticket for snacks of popcorn and cotton candy

and vouchers for all of the games and activities. The children were also given the chance to enter into raffles for prizes. Food and drinks provided at the festival ranged from hotdogs, hamburgers and BBQ pork sandwiches, to homemade Italian ice and fresh popped popcorn. Intermingled with the sights and sounds of children scurrying around to participate in all the festival had to offer, the church’s band and choir members entertained the crowds with contemporary tunes about the love and hope that God has to offer. Each of the booths at the festival was set-up and managed by the volunteering members of the church. They ranged in purpose from creating bookmarks to spreading the church’s outreach into the community. Bill Bender, coordinator of the event and Minister of Preschool and Children, said the church estimated 1,800 people were in attendance for the festival. Out of those 1,800 people, 700 were registered children.

Children race to collect as many candy filled Easter eggs as they can. Photo by Brittany Cerny

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

To keep things fair for all of the children taking part in the festival’s activities, the church created four separate egg hunting fields, each having its own designated age group. The age groups were children under two, two through four, kindergarten through second grade and third grade through fifth grade. Each group was also given different colored bags to hold all of their Easter eggs. Bender said the church bought the eggs in bulk from Sunny Bunny

Easter Egg Company and then divided them up into plastic bags that the members could take home and fill. The candy for the eggs was provided by the members of the church. Pastor Michael Lewis said the festival was a success with new members committing themselves to the church and 600 New Testaments were distributed by the Gideons. “The Lord blessed us with a beautiful spring day for our egg drop festival,” Lewis said.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local focus

Little Miss Plant City 2010 by b r i t ta n y C e r n y

Young girls of Plant City strutted their stuff as they competed for the title of Little Miss Plant City (LMPC) 2010 on March 27 at Plant City High School’s auditorium, taking part in a competition that has been a Plant City tradition since 1969. The event, which was presented by the Plant City Junior Woman’s Club (PCJWC), raises money to purchase shoes for local charities in the Plant City area. Last year, the club was able to donate over 800 pairs of socks and shoes to 15 local elementary schools, according to Shannon Davis, LMPC Chairwoman.

There were 35 contestants in this year’s competition, all competing for one of fi ve available slots on the court. The contestants are judged by a backstage interview with selected judges who do not live in the local Plant City area, and onstage they are judged on poise, appropriate dress, grooming, stage presentation and stage performance. To start the night off, all of the contestants walked out onto the stage, individually showcasing their stage presence, smiling down to the judges seated below while their families and friends cheered them on.

Then, the competition was narrowed down to the top ten contestants and each was asked the question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The answers were creative and audience engaging, ranging from the next LMPC to teacher, from fashion designer to lawyer. The butterfl ies began to flutter as the contestants’ answers were evaluated by the judges. Finally, the fi nal fi ve contestants, the 2010 LMPC court, were called off one by one. Th is year’s LMPC court is: Sarah Ardrey, Reagan Brown, Kendall Gaudens, Emmy Shouse and Jadea Broome. In the end, there can only be one queen of the 2010 LMPC court, and this year that girl was Regan Brown. Jadea Broome was named 2010 LMPC fi rst maid and Courtney Coton was named Miss

Congeniality. Each of the court members not only walked away with the honor of being a part of the 2010 LMPC court, but they also walked away with various prizes and gift certificates from both the PCJWC and the competition’s sponsors. Each contestant in the competition received a participation ribbon, a 2010 LMPC rehearsal t-shirt and program, a free kid’s meal at chili’s and free bowling at Family Bowl. The winners of the competition received gifts of a crown and sash, monogrammed trophy, strawberry themed accessories, photography packages, monogrammed bags and various gift certificates for popular local restaurants. Last year’s LMPC court was there for the crowning of the 2010 court, and shared snapshots of their time together at community events around the Plant City area. Kenlee Andreu, the 2009 LMPC Queen, said she is sad to give up her crown as reigning queen. She hopes that the 2010 LMPC court will have a good time during the upcoming year’s events and encourages the girls to be “energetic and outgoing.” Upon winning, many of the girls decided to go out and celebrate with each of their families at their favorite restaurant. For this year’s winner Regan Brown, that meant she and her family were headed to Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, and the meal of choice – Mac ‘n cheese.

See more at myfocustv.com Plant City Episode 76 2010 Little Miss Plant City Queen Reagan Brown is all smiles in her crown and sash. Photo by Brittany Cerny

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

The 2009 Little Miss Plant City court came to witness the crowning of their successors. Photo by Brittany Cerny

2010 LMPC Court member Emmy Shouse and family. Photo by Brittany Cerny

2010 LMPC Court member Kendall Gaudens shares tears of happiness as she poses for pictures. Photo by Brittany Cerny

2010 LMPC Queen Reagan Brown poses with her family. Photo by Brittany Cerny

2010 LMPC Court member Kendall Gaudens and family. Photo by Brittany Cerny

2010 LMPC First Maid Jadea Broome and family. Photo by Brittany Cerny

2010 LMPC Court member Sarah Ardrey and family. Photo by Brittany Cerny

The 2010 LMPC Queen and court with the PCJWC staff. Photo by Brittany Cerny

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

April is Heartworm Awareness Month

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms living in the arteries of the lungs and occasionally in the right side of the heart of dogs and cats.

Here are a few Heartworm Facts:

Spread by mosquitoes, heartworms are debilitating, and may even prove fatal. All dogs are at risk, regardless of whether they are considered indoor or outdoor pets. Even dogs that are mostly indoor go outside to potty, and they tend to do so when mosquitoes are most active – morning and evening. Treatment for heartworm disease is expensive and carries some risk. Prevention is the best treatment. It is easy, safe, effective, and affordable. Heartworm prevention must be given monthly, and year round in Florida. Because of the severity of the disease, heartworm testing is recommended yearly even if a dog is on heartworm prevention. Cats can get heartworms too, so talk to Dr. Conner about feline heartworm disease. Heartworm prevention is safe, easy and inexpensive. While treatment for heartworm disease in dogs is possible, it is a complicated and expensive process, taking weeks for infected animals to recover. There is no effective treatment for heartworm disease in cats, so it is imperative that disease prevention measures be taken for cats. Prevention can include: monthly tablets, chewables and topicals. Contact Animal Wellness Center today so we can recommend the best treatment for your pet!

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Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic Celebrates 25 Years of Service by C h e r y l J o h n S t o n

Twenty-five years of service to a community definitely deserves commemoration. Thank you, Dr. Brenda Dukes, for serving long and well. Focus Magazine congratulates your success in providing natural health solutions to the thousands in your care since 1985. Well done, indeed! To those attending Duke’s 25th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, April 10, 2010, it was obvious the doctor expected no praise. Instead, she and her Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic staff wanted to thank the community for 25 years of support and for the opportunities people have presented DCHC to offer healing – physically, emotionally, and spiritually. From conversations and testimonials shared that day, it is apparent Dukes’ practice accomplishes its mission. In humility and through an unshakable faith, Dr. Brenda Dukes lives to see people restored to health. “This celebration,” she said, “is the result of a dedication prayer given by my uncle, Dr. Herbert Bowdoin, now in heaven, the day we opened the practice.” Family surrounded Dr. Dukes for the milestone, including: her father Foster Dukes with wife Ilene; sister and brotherin-law, Debbie and Larry Swindle; aunt Polly Bowdoin Gavin with her husband Fred and daughter Kathy Toole; nieces Crystal Dukes and Lori Swindle with great-niece Ava Grace Swindle. All agreed that since Scripture describes believers as watched by a “great cloud of witnesses,” surely the doctor’s mother, Bettye Milton Dukes smiled down from heaven on this special day. Dukes opened the celebration with a welcoming prayer, thankful God’s blessings on the clinic and its patients, and asked for His presence and peace throughout the afternoon. She also introduced the clinic’s staff: Brenda Chandler, LMT, Maria Avalos, Cheri Dodge, and Patricia Green. Wayne and Evelyn Evans, founders of MorningStar Outreach Ministries

of Lakeland, directed the afternoon’s schedule. This ministry, primarily to the homeless and underprivileged, was established 13 years ago when the Evans began serving soup to the hungry from their truck’s tailgate. Today, their portable facility is a large trailer equipped with warming ovens, sound equipment, and a fold-out stage. Now instead of simply soup, nourishing meals and a worship program are offered to those who come. Carol Gonzalez, a director for MorningStar, coordinated entertainment to honor the doctor she will never forget. When first visiting Dukes after an auto accident, she had neither insurance nor money to pay for treatment. Dukes reassured her it would all work out because of a spiritual promise given by the same beloved Uncle Herbert: “Always treat the people, not the pocketbook, and God will take care of the rest.” Great food, children’s activities, a martial arts demonstration by Keith Coker and Kenny Kelly, drama by Mission Florida, musical performances by Brianna Turbeville, Randy Battles, and Psalm 101, and a bi-lingual message by Manuel Lopez not only entertained, but pointed folks to the reason Dr. Dukes does what she does. Anyone who knows her understands “it’s all for Christ.” The 25th Anniversary banners were purple for a reason. Dukes explained, “Purple represents blessing and ‘Victory in Jesus’. We try to use our talents and resources to help both immediately and eternally, something that will last, which is more important now than ever. People can only truly be blessed if they know Him as Lord.” Help yourself and your family. Take the first step to better health through chiropractic care. Research the details at www.dukeschiropractic.com, then schedule a consultation with Dr. Dukes at 2401Walden Woods Drive. Gift certificates are available and prayer request calls are also encouraged. Step forward into your healthy future today.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local focus

3rd Annual Plant City Hawaiian Luau by S t e v e n R i c h a r d s o n

Once every spring for the past three years, the Plant City Family YMCA is transformed into a happening Hawaiian hideaway. Some may call it a little piece of paradise in their own backyard. The YMCA held its 3rd Annual Hawaiian Luau on Saturday March 27, 2010. The Luau is a special event, in that it is strictly a fundraiser for the Plant City YMCA. All of the money raised at the Luau, goes to provide assistance to those in our local community. The fundraising took place through several entertaining events. Almost $600 was raised in the inner tube swim relay alone. There were four teams all vying to take down the defending champions. The teams had to swim four laps in the pool with an inner tube. Not just any inner tube, but the old tire ones that we all used as kids to float down rivers. The teams sold raffle tickets prior to the race

and patrons picked their favorite team to win. However, after all was said and done, no one was a match for the defending champ Trey Stevens and his teammate Will Garrison. The competition is already looking fierce for next year, in hopes they’ll be crowned champion. In addition, the auctions helped cap off a great evening. There were two auctions, one silent and the other live. The silent auction included everything from memorabilia to artwork. However, the excitement of the live auction stole the show. The energy and excitement of the auctioneer had the people shouting out and making bids. After all was said and done, almost $4,000 dollars was raised for the Building Strong Kids Campaign. In addition, the silent auction was able to raise over $1,300 dollars for the campaign. Through all of the combined efforts, almost $6,000

Guests pose for a quick photo opp. Photo by Steven Richardson

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

was raised for the Plant City YMCA’s Building Strong Kids Campaign. The Building Strong Kids Campaign provides financial assistance to those who might not otherwise be able to afford the cost of membership and programs. The YMCA is the largest provider of family health, youth sports, summer camps and licensed child care in Hillsborough County. In 2008, the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA gave over $3,950,000 in financial assistance through the Building Strong Kids campaign. That money was spread throughout the Tampa area so that people who are less fortunate can still be a part of the YMCA. However, as previously stated, the Hawaiian Luau raises funds for the Plant City YMCA. 100% of the proceeds will benefit children and families in our very community. I’m reminded of an old YMCA slogan, “You can work out anywhere…But You Belong

at the Y.” The YMCA truly is a place where everyone belongs; you are not just another face at the Y. The Luau is just an example of the strength of our community. Even in these economic conditions, almost 300 people attended the Luau. The luau has everything one would expect from a trip to a lush paradise; tiki torches, live music, crystal clear water (okay, it’s a pool), palms, cocktails, and the best food Plant City has to offer. BBQ was catered by Pig Men of Walden Lake, along with Carrabbas, Marco’s Pizza, and Grandpa Johnson’s; just to name a few. The Luau is a 21-older event and it is a great time for parents to have a night out and support a great cause at the same time. Anticipation is already building for 2011, so if you haven’t been to the Luau, you don’t want to miss it next year.

Defending Inner Tube Relay Champions: Will Garrison (Left) and Trey Stevens (Right) Photo by Steven Richardson

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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Young Boxer Eyes 2012 Olympics by C h e r y l J o h n s to n

In the near future, his dream is to compete in the 2012 Olympics. In the present, Ricky Lee Tomlinson, Jr. is making all the right moves in that direction. Purpose drives him and passion for his sport makes the workout less work and more fun. Keep your eyes on this young champion. Tomlinson, a freshman at Strawberry Crest High School, holds 21 state titles and two regional titles in his age and weight class (15-16 years of age, 119-125 pounds). In 57 bouts, he’s won 37. Titles include Junior Olympics, Silver Gloves, Sunset Games, Police Athletic League, and Junior Golden Glove State 2009. He just won Junior Golden Glove State 2010 in Las Vegas, so now advances to national title competition in North Carolina this summer. Puerto Rico hosts the USA Boxing Association matches in July where Tomlinson will represent Florida. All this has been accomplished in just three years. His boxing adventure began when his best friend, Brandon Allen, invited him to workout with friends and Allen’s father, Darrell Johnson who is an amateur boxer. Tomlinson continued his interest even though those friends did not. Tomlinson’s parents, Ricky Lee, Sr. and Cindy, are definitely dedicated to helping their son achieve his goal. Each day after school, Ricky, Jr. heads home to feed his dogs and begin his almost 3 hour training sessions. Father and son drive to a trail off US Highway 301 and Ricky runs while Dad watches. He trains five to seven days a week by jogging, sprinting, running, hitting mitts, shadow boxing, and sparring with older more experienced boxers so they can

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

be ready for their next fights. Mom drives Ricky, Jr. to the Plantation Boxing Gym in Tampa, attends all his fights, and cheers him on from beyond the ring’s ropes. Training isn’t the only sacrifice required of the family. Nutrition is key to Ricky’s success, so with the help of protein shakes, multivitamins, and his dad’s cooking, this teenager can forego the junk food. To maintain his fighting class weight and the speed and power for which he’s recognized, chips, candy, and sugary sodas are definitely no-nos. If Tomlinson has a match the

following day, he runs a little less and gets to bed early. At the arena he weighs in, eats a bit, chills for two to three hours, takes the required physical exam, waits another hour, and then boxes his opponent. Patience and endurance are all part of the championbuilding process. When he has spare time after school and training, Tomlinson likes to hunt, fish, watch Ultimate Fighter Challenge matches on TV, or hang out with his sophomore sister, Heather, who is one of his biggest fans. Tomlinson’s self-assuredness is a natural outcome of media features

reporting his wins. Traveling and working with serious mentors and trainers has helped him become more comfortable with the publicity. Just as his power in the ring comes from his feet up and the turn of his torso, his power to succeed comes from thinking on his feet and making all the right choices to stay focused on the goal. So, now we’re part of the hometown pep squad for this Eastern Hillsborough County champion in the making. 2012 – look out! Ricky Lee Tomlinson, Jr., is on an Olympic Gold mission. If determination counts, he’s a sure thing.

Ricky Tomlinson, Jr. poses with boxing greats, Carlos Rivera and Winky Wright, at the Boxing Out Hunger fundraiser event. Photo courtesy of Heather Tomlinson

WIN A 3 DAY 2 NIGHT ARUBA ESCAPE

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This getaway is valid for hotel accommodations only and does not include transportation, taxes, meals or any other miscellaneous expenses. A $50 refundable deposit is required. If guests are a no show or cancel reservation less than 14 days, it will result in the loss of $50 room deposit. This getaway is valid for two adults. Up to two children under the age of 18 may stay in room for $10 per child. Travel must be completed by September 30, 2010.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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A M ER I CA N B U S I N ES S WO M EN ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Arts Council To Present Imperial Symphony Orchestra Concert by g i l g o t t

The Arts Council of Plant City will present a performance of the full Imperial Symphony Orchestra (ISO) at the John R. Trinkle Center on the Hillsborough Community College Plant City Campus 7:30 PM, Tuesday, April 27, 2010. The program, Plant City Pops, is entitled “The New World” and will feature Gershwin’s “An American in Paris”, “American Folk Songs”, Dvorak’s “New World” Symphony, Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”, a Stephen Foster Medley, and “Fantasia on Early American Hymns”. Adult Admission is $15 in advance ($20 at the door), students are $5 each, and Hillsborough Community College faculty, staff, and students with a valid ID will be admitted free of charge. The Imperial Symphony Orchestra performance is being sponsored by the Arts Council of Plant City, Hillsborough Community College, and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Plant City Photo Archives, and Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan. RECEPTION The Arts Council of Plant City is also hosting a champagne reception prior to the event. Admission to the reception is $5 and will include the opportunity to meet the ISO Music Director, beverages and hors d’oeuvres, and preferred seating. The

reception begins at 6:30PM and tickets may be purchased at the door. There will also be an opportunity for the concert audience to meet the musicians in the lobby area after the concert. The Arts Council and the ISO will provide punch and cookies. PURCHASE TICKETS Tickets ($15/Students $5) for the concert may be purchased at the Plant City Photo Archives office at 106 South Evers Street, in downtown Plant City. (For information call 813.754.1578). Tickets may also be purchased at the Imperial Symphony Orchestra office in Lakeland by calling (863) 688.3743. PROGRAM The program for the evening includes: Gershwin’s “An American in Paris”, “American Folk Songs”, Dvorak’s “New World” Symphony, Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”, a Stephen Foster Medley, and “Fantasia on Early American Hymns”. THE IMPERIAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The Imperial Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1965 with 30 musicians and today is a highly polished regional orchestra comprised of 80

exceptionally talented and mostly unsalaried musicians who still play for the love of bringing classical music to the Central Florida area. The Lakeland –based ISO musicians average 50 rehearsals each season and play 15 concerts in Lakeland, Winter Haven, and at the historic Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales. The IOS is committed to educating children and plays four concerts each year for fourth and fifth grade students from throughout the area. Additionally, the ISO holds a Young Artists Competition each year where one or two high school or college students will be selected to play as guest artists with the ISO at its spring masterworks concert. And the ISO also performs an annual Cookie Concert on a Saturday morning for children and their parents. (For more information about the Imperial Symphony Orchestra visit their web site at www.imperialsymphony.org, or call 863.688.3743.) ARTS COUNCIL The Arts Council of Plant City was chartered in 1974 with the mission to bring arts programs to the Plant City community, to promote education in the arts, and to facilitate the development of artists and arts programs. For information call 754.1578.

Build AmericA Bonds: An opportunity for communities

When you buy a Build America Bond (BAB), you are lending money to municipalities to fund new capital programs. These programs finance roads, schools, hospitals and other projects that strengthen our communities. What does that mean for you? BABs could provide the opportunity to diversify your taxable income.* *Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss.

Buys the radical concept

These bonds are solely backed by the issuing municipality and are not obligations of the U.S. government. Before investing in bonds, you should understand the risks involved, including interest rate risk, credit risk, and market risk. The value of bonds fluctuates and you may lose some or all of your principal.

Speak with your financial advisor to determine whether BABs are It shouldn’tfor be a crazy idea that investments deserve personal attention. That’s why we put our 10,000 offices in appropriate your investment strategy. neighborhoods. So we’re easier to get to, and spend time with. Join the nearly 7 million investors who know. Face time and think time make sense. www.edwardjones.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local focus

Downtown Lunch Club Meeting by K a r a M a n e l l i

The redevelopment of midtown has been a keystone project of the city over the past few years. The Downtown Lunch Club met Thursday April 1st to discuss redevelopment plans and to get an overview of what changes Plant City residents can expect. City Manager Greg Horwedel spoke of the importance of this project. Though the process of midtown development cannot happen over night, it is something that will enhance Plant City for the future by bringing opportunities for commercial, residential, and economic development. Horwedel said the project will “shape the character of Plant City” by bringing restaurants and bistros to midtown, housing desired by young and old, as well as a village green that will be pedestrian friendly. One discussion point stressed at the meeting was the importance of midtown complementing downtown Plant City, not distracting from nor competing with the historic district. “The midtown area is connected to downtown, which is the heart of our city. For every city to be vibrant and healthy and to be a great place for jobs and a place to raise a good, healthy family, you have to have a good, strong heart,” Mayor Rick Lott stated. He said in a few years, midtown

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

will be an extension of downtown and should bring “a lot of commerce, development, and people living and having a great quality of life.” Some other guiding principles include incorporating a walkable design, a positive sense of place, and a mixed-use development of residential and commercial buildings. Civic greenspace and sustainability are also important factors. Timelines for the project were not specified, but Plant City residents will begin to notice some action, starting with the road construction project. Wheeler Street will be straightened and a new streetscape will be implemented with street trees and decorative Sternberg lighting. Horwedel said “it will dress up the area tremendously and we’re looking forward to getting that underway as quickly as possible.” A detailed description of the midtown development plan can be viewed at the city’s website. Mayor Rick Lott encourages everyone to take a look to understand what’s in place for Plant City. “As we grow our city, it’s not unplanned growth, it’s not bad growth. It’s well-planned growth that will enhance our city and enhance our community.” Visit myfocustv.com Plant City Episode 77

Mayor Rick Lott explaining how midtown will complement downtown Plant City. Photo by Kara Manelli

City Manager Greg Horwedel going over some key points of the midtown redevelopment plan. Photo by Kara Manelli

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local focus

Local Builders Help Dream Come True by C h e r y l J o h n s to n

The James Hardie Building Products Company and numerous other local businesses are reaching out to help a local widow. With volunteer time and labor, and through the generosity of many, Sylvia Washington and her grandchildren will soon occupy their new “home sweet home.” In Ecclesiastes, Israel’s King Solomon reminds Bible readers like Washington that, “To everything, there is a purpose under heaven.” Often chance encounters are more than chance. Washington is not a woman to complain, even when she has a great need. Tammy Rios is an observant civil servant. Circumstances caused their paths to cross last fall, and as a result, a family of nine now has a miraculous answer to prayer. Never underestimate the power of one person to forever impact the life of another. When Washington’s husband John died two years ago of cancer, the household income took a nosedive. Sylvia also became the primary caregiver for three of their five grandchildren, a role that John had shared with her before his death. During a visit to the Washington home, Sheriff ’s Deputy Rios noticed it needed major repairs. She also realized a widow could not manage the expense. So Rios went to her church’s pastor, Terry Wallace, of Quest @ Kingsway. After Rios explained the situation, Pastor Wallace visited the home and knew his church would want to help.

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Word spread as the pastor sought material donations for repairs. Steve Bonnell, Human Resources Manager for James Hardie Building Products read an article in the Christian Voice Monthly about the family. When he and plant manager Richard Woolweaver inspected the home, they realized the necessary repairs were monumental. The best option was to build new from scratch. Because of Hardie’s international corporate philosophy of service to community, the employees were eager to get busy, and according to company representative Doug Carmack, “Our new team adventure began.” One thing led to another and before long, many others had donated materials and labor. Bonnell complimented city employees for their cooperative assistance during the permitting process, saying, “They were extremely helpful.” Construction began in January with general contractor Derry Dykstra of Dykstra Construction supervising the project per the plans donated by Youman’s Draftiing. Precision Industrial Maintenance provided materials and labor for the foundation, and Trapnell Plumbing donated labor and materials for the first stage of the plumbing system. ProBuild supplied roof trusses and at-cost framing lumber. Gulf Coast Electric, LLC, donated electrical installation labor, Comfort Air provided the AC/Heat system, and Hardie

employees have comprised the hammer-and-nail labor force. Hardie is also picking up all costs not covered by donations. With construction now in the tradesmen stage – mechanical, 2nd stage plumbing, and electric - hopefully, the Washingtons will occupy their new South Gordon Street home by mid-summer. As the recipient of all this unexpected generosity, Sylvia Washington cannot stop thanking God for the blessings. She also credits Terry and Nadine Wallace and the Quest @Kingsway congregation for their spiritual support, saying, “Every time I see

them, I thank them.” Generosity is a two way street. Hardie spokesperson Doug Carmack believes this joint outreach to improve the Washington’s situation has made ”Hardie employees even more appreciative of all they have.” And , that goes for Sylvia Washington too. She tears up when recalling, “Never in my life have I had anything as nice as this home will be for my family. Thank you, good people, from the bottom of my heart.” Giving back has its own rewards.

Photo courtesy of James Hardie Building Products, LLC

L to R: Sylvia Washington, seated with grandchildren Tete, Adrian, and Sharrell, appreciates the generosity of local volunteers and Quest@Kingsway church members. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

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

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local focus

Stingray Chevrolet’s “Hulk Hogan” Camaro Raffle by S t e v e n r i C h a r d S o n

“What you going to do Brother, when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” On March 18, 2010 Gary Willetts found out firsthand what can happen when Hulk Hogan gets involved. Willetts bought the winning $5 raffle ticket in the Stingray Chevrolet Camaro Raffle. The 2010 “Hulk Hogan” Edition Camaro was raffled in an effort to raise money for Unity in the Community. The Camaro valued at approximately $30,000 was purchased by Stingray Chevrolet and “Bubba The Love Sponge’s Foundation.” Bubba The Love Sponge used his close friendship with Hulk Hogan to take this fundraiser to a whole new dimension. Last year, Stingray

raffled off televisions and was able to raise around $5,000 for Unity in the Community. But as Bubba stated live on the air with Stingray Chevrolet owner Steve Hurley, “You’re a car dealership, you’re not Best Buy…why not give away a car?” Next thing you know, they’re giving away a 2010 Camaro. Once Bubba The Love Sponge got Hogan on board, the sky was the limit. The “Hulk Hogan” Edition Camaro is yellow with red racing stripes, complete with 21” custom wheels and Hogan’s signature on the dashboard. However, the heart of the giveaway was the money raised for Unity in the Community. While Stingray was able to raise $5,000 last year, the “Hulk Hogan” Camaro raffle raised over $67,000

Hulk Hogan hands over the keys to the Brand New 2010 Camaro to rafﬂe winner Gary Willetts. Photo by Steven Richardson

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

for Unity in the Community. However, Auto Trader stepped in and donated over $2,000 to bring the grand total to $70,000! The non-profit Unity in the Community founded by Joyce Jordan is a local organization that contributes to those in need in the Plant City community. One of the greatest aspects of Unity, as President Linda Fuhrman stated, is the fact that “We raise the money here and we keep it here.” Unity is funded by Plant City’s own and the money goes to help those in the Plant City Community. It is a true example of people lending a helping hand to those less fortunate in their own community. However, given the overwhelming response to the Camaro raffle, Unity is looking to create more opportunities to help

those in our community through scholarships and being able to give additional money to other local non-profit organizations. Not only did Gary Willetts win a brand new Camaro, the Plant City community won something so much more important. Thanks to Stingray Chevrolet, “Bubba The Love Sponge’s Foundation,” and Hulk Hogan; Unity will be able to touch lives in a time where people are struggling to provide for just the necessities. With such an overwhelming response to the 2010 Camaro Raffle, anticipation is already building for what’s in store for 2011. Visit myfocustv.com Plant City Episode 75

The 2010 “Hulk Hogan” Edition Camaro. Photo by Steven Richardson

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local focus

Who Deserves

A Makeover? The time is now to nominate someone for the “Focus on You” Makeover.

Many people know someone who is selfless, someone who always seems to be helping others. Now think for a second about someone you know like that. Who was the first person that came to your mind? Sometimes those people need a break, and they need a day where they aren’t concerned about helping those in their lives. It is not a selfish thing, just something well-deserved. Well, fortunately, FOCUS is offering a day like that for four

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

lucky people. It is the magazine’s annual “Focus on you Makeover,” which rewards people with a day of pampering. So if you know anyone who deserves a makeover, FOCUS is here to make it happen with the help of other businesses in the community. To nominate someone, send a 300-word letter describing why he or she deserves a makeover. It can be submitted via mail, e-mail, or fax.

All nominations must be received by midnight May 6. Four winners will be chosen and notified on May 7 Letters should be titled “Focus on you Makeover Plant City” and mailed to 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. Entries can also be e-mailed to editorial@ Floydpublications.com. Write “Focus on you Makeover Plant City” in the subject line and send the entry in the body of the e-mail – please, no attachments. Entries should include the name of the nominee and the nominator, along with the nominees address, home phone number, and work phone number. For faxing, call (813) 764-0990, Attn: DeDe. Letters and entries will be published in FOCUS Magazine and photographs will be taken, during the makeover day, and published in the following month’s edition.

So what’s in store for the four lucky winners? The day begins with breakfast, and afterwards the winners will get to pick out a new outfit. Then comes a massage, which is followed by a lunch with the staff of FOCUS. During lunch, we will have a surprise for each winner. After lunch, the contestant(s) will get their makeup done following a facial, manicure, pedicure, and haircut. To top the evening off, a limo will transport the winners and their dates to get pictures taken and enjoy an evening of fine dining. It is sure to be a day that will not be forgotten. See last years make over at: myfocustv.com Plant City Episode 34

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

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The relationship between the spinal column, reproductive (urogenital) system, nervous system, endocrine (hormonal) system and overall health is extensive. Chiropractic can help the ovaries, oviducts (tubes), uterus, cervix, vagina and related structures function better. Menstrual and Premenstrual Problems For over a hundred years, many women who have suffered from a wide variety of pelvic and gynecological conditions – including PMS, bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunctions- have discovered the natural benefits of chiropractic. Infertility For over a century numerous case studies have been highlighting the fact that women who have been branded “infertile” or given a limited chance of becoming pregnant (even with in vitro fertilization) have been able to conceive, carry to term and deliver a healthy baby following chiropractic adjustments. Various aspects contribute to improved hormones, proper alignment, and overall reduction of stress.

Hysterectomy

Over half the hysterectomies performed each year in the US may be unnecessary. Furthermore after surgery, many women experience depression; loss of stamina; loss of sex drive and decreased sexual response; urinary incontinence; bowel problems; icy feet and toes; diminished sensation from the waist down; bone and joint pain; memory loss and other problems. Few doctors warn their patients about the too common aftereffects of hysterectomy. Before any woman submits to this potentially damaging operation, if possible, she should explore non-surgical alternatives. Of course chiropractic care is necessary for any woman who has had a hysterectomy to ensure that her remaining internal organs function without nerve interference to better compensate for the organs that were removed.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local DID YOU KNOW?

James Anak “Sonny” Jones Receives Plant City Photo Archives 2010 “Heritage Award” S u b m i t t e d by p l a n t c i t y p h o to a r c h i v e s

It is said that youth is a window to the adult. And so it is with James Sonny Jones, who was an outstanding young person and he is still a beacon of integrity to this day. James Anak Sonny Jones, born July 29, 1931, was the youngest of 5 children – and after four girls Jefferson Anak Jones and Fannie Roebuck Jones finally had a “SON”. And the name Sonny has stuck to him since. Jefferson and Fannie Jones owned and operated a full service grocery store and filling station. They lived on the second floor. As a youth Sonny had many friends and was very active while growing up. But most of all, he remembers working in the family store. He attended Turkey Creek School, built in 1932; it was a Strawberry School, and until 1954 it held classes for all grades – 1 through 12. He graduated in December 1949. Those years were formative years, and indicative of what Sonny Jones was made of. He was active in many school activities and an excellent student. He was a member of the well-known Boy Scout Troop 5, and attended 4-H Camp. In those years there was no gymnasium and Sonny didn’t like outdoor gym classes after which you returned to class hot and sweaty. He learned that if you were in Band you did not have to take Gym. He signed up for Band. Then he learned he had to have an instrument. He remembered seeing something called a clarinet in a pawn shop. His father bought it and from then on he played the clarinet, and was in Band for four years. He took up Spanish. He became President of the Spanish Club. In 9th grade he received the American Legion Award for Leadership. In his last years at Turkey Creek School Sonny was still very active. He worked on the yearbook, selling ads and whatever he could do to help out. He was in the Honor Society, and the Thespian Club, acting in the Junior and Senior Class plays, having the lead in “Alibi Bill”. He was Class President both years, was in the Improvement Club, and was voted “Best All-Round”. At graduation he received the D.A.R. Award for Citizenship. Sonny attended Stetson College in

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

1950, and 5 weeks later he returned to Turkey Creek, where he and his sister, “Shorty”, took over the lease for the old family store. Still wanting to continue his education, he enrolled at Florida Southern College, and continued working at the store while pursuing his studies. And he continued dating Betty Jo Prosch; they had been in Band together. They were married in June 1951 and the two of them ran the family store and gas station, and he continued his courses at Florida Southern College. At Florida Southern he met Mr. Lastinger, who taught the Foundation of Education, and he joined the Future Teachers – and was arriving at a decision to go into teaching. He received his certificate for teaching, and in the summer of 1952 he had the opportunity to take a substitute teaching position at Cork School and took it – 8 weeks at $6 a day. That was good. Family was on the way. In 1953 he received his degree from Florida Southern College and in 1953 accepted an internship at Forest Park School, teaching 7th grade English and Social Studies. It seems Sonny Jones never stopped working and continuing his education. In 1954, between school sessions, he worked at Breyer Ice Cream, chopping pineapples, and Coronet Mines, making small stones from large stones. He taught at Turkey Creek School, History and Civics, and in Ruskin, Science and Library, and back to Turkey Creek, then working at Kilgore Hardware in Tampa. And so it went. Classes at the University of Florida, Florida State, USF, and, in 1961, he received his master’s degree from the University of Florida. At Turkey Creek School Sonny Jones was a full-time Counselor, sponsor of the School Patrols, Book Counter, Chairman of Inventory and Attendance Report Reconciliation, etc. In August 1962, Jones signed on as Assistant Principal at Plant City High School. Summers found Sonny at Cork School, or as Director of the Planteen, or as Hillsborough County Recreation Program Director, or running a Head Start Program. In August 1967, Sonny Jones was

Sonny Jones 1990

assigned as Principal of Tomlin Junior High School, which was then located in the old 1914 Plant City High School building. This was his first job as Principal. The shop teacher made him a “Board of Education” out of plywood. He splintered that in nothing flat. The shop teacher then said, “I’ll make you one of maple”. He grew quite proficient with it – and he has it to this day. Sonny Jones was active in professional organizations and served as Secretary, Vice-Chair, and Chairman of the Jr. High School Council of Principals. More importantly, he oversaw the move of Tomlin Jr. High to the vacated Plant City High School building on Woodrow Wilson Street in 1972; he continued to serve as Principal of Tomlin until 1980. Appointed Principal of Plant City High School in 1980, Sonny served in that capacity until his retirement in 1990. He was a strict disciplinarian, and monitored the hallways. He continued his role with the High School Council of Principals, serving as Secretary, Vice-Chairman, and Chairman, and as Chairman of the Western Conference of High School Principals. He even found time, one year, to serve as Marshall of the Christmas Parade.

1983 was tough on the Jones family, and Sonny suffered his first heart attack that year. That didn’t slow him down much. He continued as Principal of the high school and joined the newly formed East Hillsborough Historical Society, serving on the Board of Directors and also as President. Sonny Jones suffered another cardiac emergency in late 1989, and underwent by-pass surgery. This culminated in his eventual retirement in January 1990. That year, the community’s civic clubs honored James Sonny Jones, naming him Citizen of the Year. Following that, in 1991, Florida Southern College recognized Sonny Jones by presenting him with its Distinguished Alumni Award. Sonny Jones has continued to serve his community and, among his many other activities, he has volunteered countless hours at the Plant City Photo Archives, where he has been a supporter of the Photo Archives since its inception, serves on the Advisory Council, and continues to lend his guidance and historical knowledge and insight. On Thursday, April 1, 2010, Plant City Photo Archives presented its highest recognition, the Heritage Award, to Mr. James Sonny Jones.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

local CHAMBER COLUMN

Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce by B r uc e R o d w e l l

To help avoid competing for the same patrons/guests/attendees at an event you are considering, the Chamber maintains a COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS. Before you schedule a meeting, seminar, luncheon, open house, reception, party or any other type of function, be sure to call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 to find out what else may have already been planned for the date you have in mind. If everyone cooperates in this endeavor, we will have fewer events scheduled for the same date. As a result, you will have more people participating in the event you have worked so hard to plan. Once you have established a date, our Chamber President, Marion Smith suggests you email all pertinent information to: info@plantcity.org or you can fax it to 813-752-8793 or mail it to Community Calendar, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box CC, Plant City, FL 33564. Event information should include the following: Name of Event, Date & time, Location, Sponsoring Organization, Description, Contact name for further information and a Contact telephone number. ********** Would you like an up-to-date full color map of Plant City? The Chamber office has a brand new supply available at a cost of only $1.00. You can get one by stopping by the Chamber office, 106 North Evers Street, Plant City. Stop by and pickup a copy. ********** April 17 th. is the date for the Greater Plant City Chamber’s 13 th. ANNIVERSARY CLASSIC

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

SHOW. There will be live entertainment , 50/50 drawing, vendors, crafters and the specialty shops and restaurants in downtown Plant City stay open late. This is great family fun and a chance to look over 1985 and older cars and trucks from antiques, customs, classics and hotrods. This takes place in downtown Plant City.

light dinner will be served. Call 813-443-2041 to register. ********** The new David E. Bailey, Jr. Elementary School, 4630 Gallagher Road, Dover will have their dedication ceremony on Sunday, April 25 th. at 2 PM.

**********

The Annual Relay for Life will take place at Plant City High School starting at 6 PM on Friday, April 23 rd. and continue till noon Saturday, April 24 th. This event benefit’s the American Cancer Society. For information call Jessica Hong-Tanner at 813-685-0670 extension 5457.

Plant City Pops comes to the John R. Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College on Tuesday, April 27 at 7:30 PM. This performance is by the Imperial Symphony Orchestra from Lakeland. Ticket prices in advance are $15. At the door $20. Students are $5. Tickets are available at the following locations: Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Plant City Photo Archives.

********** Saturday, April 24 th. is the date of the 2 nd. Annual Raiders Football Golf Invitational. This is taking place at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Registration is at 7:30 AM with a shotgun scramble format at 8:00 AM. A lunch and awards ceremony will follow along with raffle prizes and silent auction. For more information contact the Raiders Football Hotline at 813-441-4432. ********** South Florida Baptist Hospital is hosting another Ladies Night Out on April 22 nd. The subject of this presentation is “Women and Sleep: How It Affects Your Health”. It takes place in the Administration Conference Room from 6 to 8 PM. Women can find out more during this seminar with guest speaker Ivan Ackerman, M.D. Doctor Ackerman is Board Certified in Sleep Medicine. This is a free event, however registration is required. A

********** The Chamber’s Bike Fest will take place in downtown Plant City on Saturday, May 1 st. from 5 to 9 PM. ********** Mark your calendars for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce COMMUNITY EXPO. This event will take place Thursday, May 6 th. at the Trinkle Center on the HCC Campus. This is open to the public and admission is free. Over 70 local businesses will be showing off their products, services and provide you with information, There will be free food samples, door prizes and giveaways. The event starts at 2 and goes on to 6 PM. Plan to attend this great event and learn all about the businesses in Plant City and what they have to offer.

********** Plant City Entertainment will present the play “HARVEY” on May 6-7-9 and again on the 14 th. and 15 th. at their new location, 101 North Thomas Street. Tickets are available at Hardee Fashions, 1501 North Wheeler Street or by calling 813-754-2929. ********** Calling all Mother’s….On Mother’s Day, May 9 th. you will receive FREE admission to Dinosaur World, 5145 Harvey Tew Road (Off Forbes Rd.), Plant City. ********** Some dates for your calendar: May 12 - Chamber Contact Breakfast at Red Rose Inn & Suites. Starts at 7:30. Please call the Chamber office at 813-7543707 to RSVP. May 15 - Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City. Starts at 4 PM. May 15 - Chamber’s MARGARITA BALL. This great event is held at Mayor Rick & Di Lott’s residence, Polo Place, Plant City and gets underway at 7 PM. For additional information, call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

100 issues

ine z a g a M S U C of FO

Focus Magazine has become a staple for the residents of and visitors to Plant City. This month’s issue marks a milestone. It is our 100th issue. For a little over nine years, Floyd Publications has been publishing Focus Magazine. In that time our readers have come to anticipate the 15th of each month when Focus hits the streets. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane, and commemorate our journey from where we began to what we’ve become. As we look back, we realize “We’ve come a long way baby...”

foCUS MAGAZINE FOCUS Magazine PLANT Plant CITY City APRIL april 2010

y r o t s i H

Fun Fact

Did You Know has been around since the very ﬁrst issue. It’s changed some over the years, but the idea has been the same. People like to know about the history of their town and love to see old pictures depicting that history. Various writers contributed the Did You Know articles for some time, and did a great job. Eventually Plant City Photo Archives, being the keeper of Plant City history, took over, and has provided the column each month since.

loyds The F

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com APRIL

The first issue of Focus Magazine rolled off the presses January 15, 2002 – but the Focus story begins long before that date. Mike Floyd met DeDe Devane in 1992 at the motocross track. Mike was involved in racing, and he worked in a field closely related to racing. DeDe was raised in a family that was heavily involved in motocross. The two eventually married in 1996, and moved to Orlando. After spending a year there, they relocated to Tampa, where Mike had lived most of his life. In 1999, DeDe felt the pull of her lifelong home in Plant City. Both Mike and DeDe thought it would be a great place to raise the family they planned to start, so they packed up and headed east. In 2000, Mike realized that many of the best motocross racers in the country were coming out of Florida and there were no local motocross magazines, so he decided to start his own. True to form, Mike the entrepreneur saw an opportunity and turned it into reality. He and DeDe founded Floyd Publications and began publishing FLMX Magazine in May of 2000 and never looked back. At the time, DeDe was home on doctor-ordered bed rest due to a difficult pregnancy. On June 30, 2000, just one month after FLMX Magazine hit the streets, Zane Floyd, their first son, arrived. The move to Plant City was a good one, and Mike really enjoyed the small town feel and rural life afforded here. Something was missing though. The town needed its own magazine – one that would feature the positive things about the community, would present the people and organizations that made Plant City the great place it was and still is. Again, Mike saw an opportunity and along with DeDe went into action. FLMX Magazine was doing well, and had been well received in the motocross community, so they agreed to use the savings they’d set aside for DeDe to stay home with Zane for a year to pursue this venture. First order of business was to come up with a name. After tossing around a lot of options including “Talk” and “Focus on the Community” among others, they settled on “Focus”. It was short and sweet, and captured the essence of what the magazine was intended to do. Next item on the agenda was to start filling ad space, so the week of September 11, 2001 (sound familiar?), the two began selling advertising from their car. The first sale was South Florida Baptist Hospital, and what a great customer they have been, advertising nearly continually since that first issue. Other advertisers who have stuck with Focus since the very beginning include Central Florida Construction and Poppell Insurance. In the second issue, The Artistry, Vogel Realty and Michael Cameron of Edward Jones Financial joined the party, and have been in the magazine nearly every issue over the last nine years. A lot has changed over those nine years and 100 issues! The first month, Mike and DeDe thought they could do home delivery of the magazine by walking the neighborhoods. After several hours and more than a couple blisters, five people had only distributed 200 magazines. It was crystal clear they would need to come up with a better plan. The decision was made to purchase a van, and for the next two years DeDe and Mike did home delivery with 2 year old Zane riding in his car seat. Obviously, even with a small staff, the company needed an office, so the first week of December, 2001, Mike rented a small space in the old historic Arcade building in downtown Plant City. In less than one year, they outgrew the space, and the company made their first real estate purchase. The building at 702 West Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd was acquired and renovated in 2003, and became the new home of Focus Magazine. Today, Floyd Publications resides at 101 East J. Arden Mays Blvd in downtown Plant City. This historic building once housed the city’s hospital and is a great fit for Focus. It took a year to do the renovations, and in November 2006, the building with its brick interior walls and quintessential Plant City charm, became the third home for the magazine and its parent company – which by this time had become an icon in the community. Over the years, both the company and the Floyd family have grown. A second son, Zy Maverick, joined the Floyd clan on April 30, 2007. Through expansion and strategic licensing agreements, Focus Magazines are now published for several communities around central Florida. Floyd Publications has also added to its repertoire by venturing into the world of video with FOCUS TV, a weekly internet program featuring current events and people making positive news. The company’s staff has grown as well, and now includes several account representatives, an art department, editorial staff, a stable of freelance writers, and more. It’s been quite a journey, and although a lot has changed through these first 100 issues, the original idea behind Focus has never changed: keep it positive and keep it about the community.

Fun Fact

There have been many memorable covers, but one of the most entertaining has to be the September 2005 cover featuring Doug Gibbs. The photo was one of those rare pictures that so accurately captures the essence of its subject, and was a delight to shoot

2009 FOCUS

Feature

Focus readers have come to love and eagerly anticipate the annual Reader’s Choice Awards (RCA). Since 2002, readers have been asked to vote on their favorite Plant City eateries, and the winning establishments have been recognized both in the magazine and at an awards ceremony held in conjunction with Focus’ annual anniversary party. The ﬁrst year, there were only 12 award categories. That number has now swelled to over 20 and what started with strictly paper ballots has gone high tech with on-line voting and coverage on Focus TV. Fred’s Southern Kitchen (Fred’s Market Restaurant), Maryland Fried Chicken, Parkesdale Farm Market, and the Red Rose Dining Room have all won a Reader’s Choice Award every year the since the ﬁrst RCAs in 2002.

Fun Fact

Plant City is a community with an abundance of history and heritage, but have you ever really thought about the small, rural communities that surround it? Native Americans once occupied a village in the area we now know as Plant City, and the ﬁrst town there was named after that village: Ichepucksassa. The name was rather difﬁcult to spell and pronounce, so the postmaster renamed it Cork – after his home town in Ireland. Then in 1884, the city was renamed again in honor of Henry B. Plant. Many of us who were raised in and around Plant City know the history by heart… but there is so much more. The areas surrounding Plant City proper, many of which existed in some form or fashion, even before Plant City was really a city, have their own rich and varied history. Native Americans, military forts, development of the railroad, the growth of towns to support the railroad system, agriculture; these are just a few of the things that shaped rural communities like Thonotosassa, Cork, Springhead, Dover, Knights Station, Antioch, and many others… In the August and September 2005 issues of Focus we ran a series called Back To Our Roots which chronicled the stories behind these communities. It was one of the most popular features ever run in our magazine, and generated a great deal of responses from readers.

In Memory

Each month, Focus Magazine puts the Spotlight on a person who has had a signiﬁcant positive impact on the community. The Spotlight interviews have provided very interesting content over the years, and each of these people has graced the cover. Unfortunately, Plant City has lost some of them through time as they have passed away. They will be missed, but their contributions to Plant City will live on. We would like to take this opportunity to remember them and honor their memory. Name Issue in which they appeared on the cover Roy Parke

September 2002

Willard McGinnes

June 2003

Betty Chambers

March 2005

Elton Johnson

James L. Redman Saydee Martin

January 2003 April 2004

January 2010

the In February 2002, Focus began featuring the Strawberry Queen on ‘Focus the in be to Queen rst ﬁ The w. Intervie t cover and as our Spotligh eagerly Spotlight’ and grace the cover was Shannon Davis. Now readers y. Februar each anticipate the interview and photos of the queen

foCUS MAGAZINE FOCUS Magazine PLANT Plant CITY City APRIL april 2010

Focus on You

Makeover

In early 2003 the folks here at Focus wanted to find a way to give something back to the community, and in the process, allow advertisers and local merchants to participate. Someone on the staff thought a makeover for a deserving person would be a lot of fun, and a great way to give back. But, how would we decide who the recipient should be? Then someone else came up with the idea of soliciting nominations from Focus readers. The idea began to really take shape, and in May 2003, the first annual Focus On You Makeover took place. That first makeover was chronicled in the June 2003 issue. As we began to contact advertisers and Plant City merchants to ask if they’d like to participate, the response was overwhelming. As a result, we were able to provide a day of pampering and luxury, new outfits and accessories, and much more to multiple recipients. Each year, the day begins with breakfast, then each person is chauffeured from place to place throughout the day. On the agenda is a trip to select their new outfit and accessories, then it’s off to the massage therapist, followed by the salon for a new hair style and pampering. Lunch is wedged into the day at some point. The day is then topped off with a limousine ride to the Red Rose Inn & Suites for a evening of fine dining and entertainment. Although working with these deserving folks, there is one part of the makeover process that can be tough. In late April, nomination letters begin pouring into our office and each is heartfelt, heartwarming, and many are downright heart-wrenching. The nominations come from friends, family members, children, spouses, co-workers – and each tells the story of someone very special. We wish we could give them all makeovers, but unfortunately we have to select just a few. Since 2003, there have been twenty makeover winners, and more than thirty local businesses that have helped Focus make their dreams come true for a day. Some of those businesses have been there providing generous support of the Focus On You Makeover nearly every year. We can’t list every one that has provided merchandise and services, but we would like to recognize those that have been a part of the event since the beginning. Fred’s Southern Kitchen Watch last year’s event Lott Mather Buick GMC Merle Norman at myfocustv.com Remedi Spa & Chiropractic Center (Dr. Dunn) Episode 34 Red Rose Inn & Suites Sister’s & Company The Artistry

Thank you for your continued support of this worthwhile and fun event!

A Special Honor At the 2004 Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Awards ceremony, a great honor was bestowed upon Focus Magazine. The publication was named Special Business of the Year, an award given to businesses that have had a positive impact on the Plant City community. “What a blessing Focus has been to the Chamber and to the Plant City community!” - Marion Smith, President Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce (Sept, 2004) “Truly, FOCUS Magazine has united the community and plays a role in the success of many organizations. Good luck in the future, I hope that FOCUS will continue to grow and unite ours and other communities.” - County Commissioner Brian Blair

Advertiser Hall of Fame

for those who have been advertising continuously since the Beginners.

Central Florida Construction South Florida Baptist Hospital Poppell Insurance Michael Cameron of Edward Jones Vogel Real Estate The Artistry

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com APRIL

Thank You for your continued support.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

Abounding Interest, Knowledge and Talents

Local CPA, and Plant City Vice Mayor, Dan Raulerson, never disappoints Interview by Brian West Photos by Mike Floyd

Dan Raulerson hasn’t lived his entire life in Plant City, but it seems that way to those who know him. Raulerson has made his home here. He runs a successful Accounting ﬁrm and is involved in the community in many diﬀerent ways. He and I recently had a few minutes together to talk about his family, work, politics and a few hobbies.

Focus: How did you come to call Plant City your home? Raulerson: I’m originally from Jacksonville, Florida. My family has been in Jacksonville for 8 generations. Actually Macclenny, which is just west of Jacksonville, is where my family roots are. My family originally came to this country in the 1700s. John Rawlinson is our real British sir name. He fought in the Revolutionary War, then moved to Florida and had 5 children; James, Nimrod, Fanny and a couple of others. My family line is through Nimrod. What a name, right? I wanted to name my son Nimrod, but [my wife] Shirley threatened divorce. So that’s a little family history. I was born in Jacksonville and we moved to Brandon when I was 13. I went to Brandon High School. If you’d have told me then that I was going to raise a family, and work and live in Plant City, Florida, I’d have told you that you were out of your mind. But now I could not imagine being anywhere else, or wanting to be anywhere else. After I graduated high school, I went to Florida State University and earned my degree in Accounting. I worked for a large CPA firm in Orlando, right out of college, but then had an opportunity to work with a firm in Tampa/Plant City – Bella Hermida. I worked with them for a couple of years and then Ray Oliver had started another firm and asked me to join. I did that for a couple of years and then started my own firm in 1985. So I wound up in Plant City through professional connections. Once I was here and got to meet the clients and the people in the area, I decided to hang up my own shingle and start my own firm, Raulerson and Santana. Recently, I was part of Edwards, Platt, Raulerson Coakley, CPA’s. We demerged but we’ve all still remained friends. Those relationships are important to me and we parted ways amicably.

Focus: So you’ve been in business for yourself 25 years already, and you’re still young. Raulerson: God bless you. Yes, I’ve had my own businesses for 25 years. This is actually my 30th tax season. Wow! That doesn’t make me feel so young. Fortunately I’ve got a great, talented staﬀ that keeps me going strong. They are dedicated and we all have a passion for helping navigate small business through the tax maze and regulations as well as enhance profitability. I also have an interest in an IT company in Tampa, The Aasys Group. We do IT consulting for community banks. My partner, Tony Coleman, is great to work with and we have fun developing the business. Being an entrepreneur is a challenge these days, but it is rewarding. Focus: Tell me about your immediate family. Raulerson: Shirley and I met on a blind date. She was a history teacher in Melbourne. I had a friend working in Melbourne and he and his wife asked me to come visit. They’d lined up a date for me. I was the kind of guy that went on blind dates all the time. If you went on a blind date and had a great time, great. If you didn’t, you didn’t have to go out again. There just wasn’t anything to lose. So I decided I’d go. It was about the only way I could get a date anyway. So I’m at their house and we’re getting ready to go to dinner and in walks this absolutely gorgeous woman. I couldn’t speak. I was tongue-tied and my mouth was dry. All I could think was,

“Wow! This woman is amazing!” She actually called me after that first date, and we continued seeing each other and ended up getting married a year to the day of our first date. Shirley’s been amazing ever since. She has spent most our time together, raising the kids, including me. Jackie was our first born and Alek was born three years later. Jackie is going to school at UCF working on a degree in Broadcast Journalism. She’ll be in the Miss Florida Pageant in July as Miss Largo. Thank God she looks like her mother! Alec is a Junior at Durant and he is our techno wizard. He really has a great wit. He’s the family comedian. We spend a lot of time together playing chess, watching movies and working out. As I said, Shirley used to be a teacher, but now she’s my boss here at the oﬃce. It is great working together as long as I do what she says. Focus: Tell me about your experience as a walk-on with Coach Bowden. Raulerson: I was a walk-on quarterback at Florida State. It was Bobby Bowden’s first year. I know what you’re thinking, I don’t look that old! They had me playing everything; linebacker, defensive end, running back, but my best

position was tackling dummy. [laughing] I was really good at that. One day I realized how important my education was, and between working and trying to play football, it was just too much. I wasn’t the sharpest tool in the shed. I really had to study. My father had a saying, “Son if you’re dumb, you must be persistent.” So I went to Coach Bowden one day and said, “Coach, I really appreciate the opportunity you’ve given me here. It really means a lot to me, but without a scholarship I’m going to have to hang up football. I have to focus on school.” Coach Bowden looked me in the eye and said, “Son, I’ve seen you play, and I think you’re making the right decision.” We had a good laugh about it. I had an occasion to write him years later and he wrote me back and said, “That’s a great story. You need to keep telling that one.” Focus: How did you become interested in the City Commission seat? Raulerson: The only thing political I’d been involved in before this, was in high school. I was the senior class President. From time to time, people would approach me about the City Commission seat and suggest that I consider it. When people think enough of you to ask you to do something like that, it’s an honor. So you do it. You just honor that request. Plant City has been so good to me and my family that it is time to give back.

Focus: Can you share any of your general thoughts on politics? Raulerson: When I was first approached a number of years ago, I still had young children at home. You see, I think politics is for old people. If you’re going to get into politics, you need to have your family life set. I hear politicians that are over 60 years

old saying, “I’m going to retire from politics to spend more time with the family.” Pal, your time is done. You should’ve been spending that time with them the last 30 years. I never really had a desire to be involved in politics, and then John Dicks approached me and said, “It might be a good idea for you to get involved so Alek and Jackie can watch you participate in public service.” This is when John was giving up his seat, so I decided to run, and here I am. And I agree with our Founding Fathers when it comes to government; keep it small, keep it eﬀective and keep it solvent, and the Plant City Commission has done that for many years. Government’s role is to make sure we have good infrastructure, clean water and of course police, fire and rescue; the basic needs to make sure we’re taken care of. Now with the poor economy, everyone is having to reevaluate what those basic needs are and redefine what we can aﬀord for government to do. Mayor Lott has started a great tradition of asking those in attendance at our City Commission meetings if they have any ideas, anything to ask about or talk about. It’s become our community kitchen table. It’s great. I think Greg Horwedel was a great choice as City Manager. Focus: What types of pressures are you facing on the Commission? Raulerson: I think the biggest pressure by far is the budget. Revenues are going down so we have to make some tough decisions about allocating the dollars we get. The pressure comes in deciding whether or not we should or shouldn’t be

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

involved with the issue at hand. The people that have preceded us did a fantastic job of making sure we’re in a good financial position. A good example of that is when the hurricanes came through a few years ago, and most recently the appearance of sink holes. The money was there for us to take care of those things and not have to borrow. Focus: Tell me some of your personal interest. Raulerson: Well, I like to cook. I’m a member of the Plant City Gourmet and Viniculture Society.

That’s a fancy name for a bunch of guys that burn hamburgers. We’ve been doing this for almost 20 years. I think we started in 1989. We have 4 original members and 4 newer members; myself, Fred Johnson, David Galloway, Hugh Gramling, Randy Larson, Charlie White and Darryl Williams. Bob Tanner was a member, but we haven’t filled that vacancy since he passed away. But it’s fun. It’s a great hobby. I was also in a rock band until last year. We played the Tampa area. We played O’Brien’s in Brandon quite a bit, the LA Hangout in Lutz, we played parties and even Pig Jam one year. I play guitar. My brother played drums.

We started the band on a whim. We played southern and classic rock. The name of the band was Crisis. It was originally Mid-Life Crisis, but that sounded too cheesy, so we shortened it to Crisis. It was really fun for us because we’d have old high school friends showing up to hear us just out of curiosity. And of course the places we played loved that. Raulerson is an extremely wellrounded person. He’s very approachable, successful at anything that gets his attention (except football), and he has interest in a wide variety of things. Dan has done a lot of great work in Plant City. He’s even considering the seat that will be vacated by Rich Glorioso as State Representative. Thanks for all your work, Dan.

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APRIL 16 – JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

APRIL 17 & 24

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

APRIL 17 – SHADES OF BLUE

Shades of Blue with P. J. Leary & the Las Vegas Sounds – also featuring special guest Ken Brady, lead singer of The Casinos featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye®” before and after the show in the Ballroom!

APRIL 23 – DESTINY

Come dine and dance the night away with one of the best house bands around. Destiny is adult contemporary music with tunes ranging from Jimmy Buffett, GrassRoots, Ricky Martin – to today’s hits!

APRIL 30 – COVER TO COVER

The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MAY 1, 7, 15, 22 & 28

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

MAY 8 – JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

SHOW RESERVATIONS

Please call for ticket prices. Most shows in the Red Rose Dining Room have a no cover charge with the purchase of dinner. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper club atmosphere with a four course meal or – seats NOW AVAILABLE for a low price for the show only!

SPECIAL ROOM RATES!

Show guests - inquire about our special room rates when staying overnight after a show!

MAY 9

MOTHERS DAY BUFFET

A grand buffet fit for a Queen! Freshly prepared salads, pasta, omelets, seafood, beef, ham, vegetables and desserts (including chocolate fountains) and much more! Serving times: 11 a.m., 1:00 p.m. & 3:30 p.m. For musical entertainment, Destiny performs. Call to reserve your table in the Red Rose Ballroom.

MAY 14

LOST IN THE 50S – PART 1 THE FOUR PREPS AND THE ROOTS OF ROCK’N ROLL

Tributes to Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, Roy Orbison and Jerry Lee Lewis, The Four Preps “26 Miles,” “Big Man,” “Lazy Summer Night,” “Down By The Station”– plus Jimmy Stephens of the Safaris “Image Of A Girl” also performing PJ Leary and The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom

MAY 15

LOST IN THE 50S – PART 2

yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.” Destiny will also be performing before and after in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JUNE 4 & 12 – JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

JUNE 5, 18 & 26

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JUNE 19 – GEORGE GALFO’S MYSTICS

Original founding member, George Galfo brings his Mystics to the Red Rose Dining Room singing their hit song “Hushabye” and many more memorable Doo Wop favorites! PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show.

5-STAR DINING AWARD

The Red Rose Dining Room was awarded the top award for dining and service by Trent Rowe of The Ledger

THE NEW CHORDETTES & THE FOUR PREPS

The New Chordettes perform their hits “Mr. Sandman,” “Lollipop,” “Never On Sunday”– plus The Four Preps “26 Miles,” “Big Man,” “Lazy Summer Night,” “Down By The Station”– plus Jimmy Stephens of the Safaris “Image Of A Girl,”– also performing PJ Leary and The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show in the Ballroom

MAY 21

PAUL ELGIN & EARTHBEAT TRIO

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MAY 29

LOLA & THE SAINTS PLUS DESTINY

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business profile

Sweet Treat for a Hot Day Twistee Treat by K r y s t e l K n o w l e s

During the fast approaching hot days of summer, Twistee Treat is a great place to find a cool treat. The ice cream shop is conveniently located close to a shopping plaza and has something for everyone to enjoy. A specialty of the house is great customer service, and the hands-on owner serves customers right alongside his employees. Derek Scott, 36, has always been a hard worker and enjoys working for himself. In 1997 Scott, his brothers and his parents bought Twistee Treat. “Twistee Treat is a fun place to own,” said Scott. Scott’s parents, who previously owned a bar in Indiana, are very knowledgeable about running a business which helped make Twistee Treat a success. As a family

venture, Scott enjoyed working and sharing business duties with his family at their ice cream shop. “I knew this was a good business because everyone likes ice cream from young kids to seniors,” shared Scott. In 2002, he bought Twistee Treat from his parents and brother because he enjoys the challenge of running his own business. Through his life experiences he feels working for himself is the best option. Scott works at the ice cream shop at least 30 hours a week, and knows that’s what it takes to ensure continued success. When he is not at Twistee Treat, he spends about 40 hours handling paperwork, payroll and other business related functions. “I like working for myself because you get out exactly what you put into Twistee Treat, cone shape ice cream shop. Photo by Krystel Knowles

Owner, Derek Scott, 36, is holding a turtle sundae. Photo by Krystel Knowles

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

it,” said Scott. Scott seems ‘made for this business’ because he loves talking with his customers, and working hard to make sure they are satisfied with their orders. According to Scott, at Twistee Treat, all the ice cream delights are made with real ice cream and all other treats are made with the best ingredients available. “The fruits I use are fresh, the bananas in the banana splits are always fresh which gives them a better flavor,” relates Scott. Twistee Treat also has a wide variety of sandwiches, shakes, ice cream flavors, nachos and even sells Nathan’s hot dogs. Twistee Treat also has a drive through window which is convenient for people on the go. According to Scott, many people enjoy sitting outside to enjoy a

snack while enjoying the nice warm, sunny Florida weather. He said that the most popular menu items are his tasty shakes and cones. “Surprisingly most of my business is done through the drive through,” said Scott. Twistee Treat is the perfect place to stop and order a delicious snack because of the convenient location and drive through. And they have something for everyone on the menu. “We have a lot of customers every day but our busiest night is Saturday. We are open every day and night until 10 p.m.,” said Scott. Scott encourages everyone to stop by and taste his shakes and ice cream made with real milk “I want people to know that they are getting a better quality product made with the best ingredients,” said Scott.

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WHEN IT COMES

business focus

Systematic Investing TO YOUR TO-DO LIST, Can Smooth “Bumps PUT YOUR FUTURE FIRST. in the Road”

Decisions made in the past may no longer be what’s best for the future. So, to keep everything up to date, we offer a financial review. A complimentary service to all our clients, the financial review is a great opportunity to sit face-to-face with your financial advisor and develop strategies to keep your finances in line with your short and long-term goals. To find out how to get your financial goals on track, call or visit today.

Michael Cameron Financial Advisor 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1491 www.edwardjones.com Member SPIC

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

by e d wa r d j o n e s

In the investment world, there aren’t many certainties, but here’s one of them: prices will always go up and down. As an individual investor, you can’t do anything about this volatility. But the way you respond to it could make a big difference in your long-term investment success. Many investors think they can “beat” volatility by trying to time the market — in other words, by buying when prices are low and selling when prices are high. In theory, this is an excellent strategy, but in reality, it’s pretty much impossible to follow — because no one can really predict, with any accuracy, market highs and lows. So instead of attempting to time the market, you’re much better off by following a time-tested strategy known as systematic investing. To systematically invest, you simply put the same amount of money into the same investments at regular intervals. To illustrate, you could put $100, $500, $1000 or more into Investment X on the first of every month. To make it even easier on yourself, you could automatically transfer those dollars from your bank account directly into the investment you’ve chosen. In all likelihood, your contribution will buy a different amount of shares of Investment X each month. For example, if Investment X sells for $100 per share in January, a $500 investment will buy five shares. In February, if the price has fallen to $50 per share, your $500 will buy 10 shares. In other words, when you systematically invest, you’ll automatically buy more shares when the price is low and fewer shares when the price is

higher — and that’s a great way to cope with market volatility. But systematic investing also offers some other advantages, including the following: * Efficient share building — The more shares you own of an investment, the bigger your cumulative gains whenever the price of that investment rises. Consequently, increasing your shares should be a prime objective — and systematic investing is one way of building your share ownership. * Investment discipline — Most people realize the value of investing for their retirement and other long-term goals, but they often put it off each month and find other things to do with the money— and by then, there’s often nothing left to invest. But by setting up a bank authorization to invest systematically each month, you’ll “pay yourself first.” * Lower cost of investing — Through systematic investing, your cost per share likely will be lower than if you made sporadic lump sum investments. And by lowering the cost of investing, you will, in effect have the potential to boost your returns. While systematic investing is typically a good way to fight the effects of volatility, it can’t guarantee a profit or prevent a loss in declining markets. And keep in mind that you need to have the financial wherewithal to keep investing through up and down markets. But if you have that ability, consider putting systematic investing to work for you. It may not be glitzy or glamorous, but it may work for you.

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business success

Thank you for

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2009 FOCUS

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Valid only at the Panera Bread located at 2909 James L. Redman Pkwy. in Plant City, FL. Limit one coupon per person per visit. Must present coupon when ordering. Not valid with any other coupon or offer. Offer good while supplies last. Offer expires May 15, 2010.

2909 James L. Redman Pkwy. Plant City 813-659-0864 www.panera-tampa.com Hours: 7:00am-8:30pm Monday-Sunday 62

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Marty Johnson Background: I have been in the re-screen and aluminum business since 1983, with over 30 years of experience. Aspirations: To be the best in the business. I strive to have satisfied customers and reach for success daily. Inspirations: I am inspired to work hard daily to support my family. I also get inspired by the quality work

that I do. I am able to see the satisfaction on my customers faces. Successes: My successes is being in business for 30 years and raising a family. Future: I plan to be in business for another 30 years. Making customers happy is my main goal.

Talk to me about Allstate Power Sports Insurance. I can help protect your recreational vehicles. Plus, the more you protect, the more you can save-with multi-policy discounts. Call me and I can help you find the discounts you may qualify for.

RALPH L. FEOLA, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF (813) 752 2556 1003 S COLLINS ST PLANT CITY a026519@allstate.com Availability varies by product type and is subject to availability and qualifications. Discount amount may vary by state.Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company: Northbrook, Illinois ÂŠ 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

business success

Debbie Clark APARTMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY

One bedroom Apartments Rent based on income

Plant City Towers 103 W. Mahoney St. Plant City, FL 33563 813.752.5116

Plant City Living Center 405 E. Damon St Plant City, FL 33563 813.659.2669

applications available at each location 64

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Background: Brown’s Floral Shop originated in 1928 by the Brown family on their front porch. A store was built adjacent to their home on Reynolds street and later sold. In 1983 I interviewed for a part time job while my daughter’s were in school and realized I had a passion for flowers. In 1988 I purchased the business. Many people asked why I didn’t change the name. I think Browns is a part of Plant City history. There is a bit of nostalgia for a business to sustain through the ups and downs of a community. We have many families that have been with Brown’s for their floral needs for 80 years, which tells me it is more than just a name. Aspirations: Brown’s has always been the hometown florist. We help people celebrate all of life’s occasions, birthdays, holidays, weddings and provide comfort to people in times of sorrow and sadness. However, the past few years we have branched out with large functions such as weddings and events. To see a bride wowed by how impressive her reception looks, or an event planner amazed at the centerpieces for a business event is a tremendous feeling of accomplishment.

Inspirations: My family is my inspiration. I have two daughters, Tifaney and Courtney, that I am very close with. Tifaney inspires me because she is such a wonderful and busy mom to my four grandchildren. She keeps us all connected with the kids events and reminds us that nothing is more important than family. Courtney inspires me to reach further professionally. She is an assistant principal and puts so much time into her career to be the best she can be and expecting the most from her faculty and students. On holidays and wedding shows, you will see the whole family helping out. Successes: Success is an end result, I prefer to live life as a continuous challenge, not an ending destination. I try to surpass my goals. Future: Brown’s will continue to find ways to serve Plant City families. For example, we are delivering free flowers to nursing homes and retirement home residents on their birthdays. Also, we have expanded our business to include a sister company called Posh Floral Artistry, which is a wedding and event specialty business.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

HOME GUIDE

This is a special advertising section

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

Team Wainoris ...Selling Hillsborough and Polk Multi-Million Dollar Producers

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According to the both the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors and the Lakeland Association of Realtors, current home inventories are lower than they have been since 2006! With the Spring home buying season under way, and with all of the government incentive available to home buyers, NOW IS THE TIME TO SELL!!! Call us today at TEAM WAINORIS.....no one will work harder for you to get your home sold fast! According to the both the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors and the Lakeland Association of Realtors, current home inventories are lower than they have been since 2006! With the Spring home buying season under way, and with all of the government incentive available to home buyers, NOW IS THE TIME TO SELL!!! Call us today at TEAM WAINORIS.....no one will work harder for you to get your home sold fast!

Position 1 Secluded Charleston Woods: no change

SECLUDED CHARLESTON PLANT CITY POOL HOME Position 2 Plant City Pool Home: Change last WOODS line: Seller motivated, asking just $129,999. 4 bedroom / 3 full bath, golf course pool home in Adorable 3 bedroom / 2 bath pool beautiful gated community of Charleston Woods in Walden Lake. Over 3200 ft. Additional den/ ofﬁce plus large game room. Huge covered pool area with hot tub and outdoor bar. Tremendous gourmet island kitchen with granite counters, three ovens and stainless steel appliances. $399,900.

ADORABLE PLANT CITY HOME Close to I-4, town park and shopping, this 3 bedroom/ 2 bath home on quiet dead end street is ready for you! Volume ceilings and no maintenance ﬂoors throughout. Private back yard with screened porch. Don’t miss this one! Just $119,900.

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

home with absolutely beautiful fenced yard just minutes from I-4 and shopping. Renovated baths, dual pane windows, separate living room and family room. Inside utility and beautiful polished wood ceilings throughout! Seller motivated, asking just $119,900.

BETTER THAN NEW Almost new home with vaulted ceilings, crown moldings, columns, custom tile and woodwork throughout. Large screen porch and patio. Beautiful street with paver driveway. Asking $185,000.

CUTE AS A BUTTON Adorable south Lakeland 3 bed/2 bath home with fresh paint, newer roof and new a/c, renovated master bath,large fenced yard and screened patio. Bring offers, asking just $99,900.

WALDEN LAKE TWO STORY POOL HOME

3 bedroom, 2 bath home with upstairs loft overlooking great room. Beautiful stained wood staircase, family room with ﬁreplace and so much more. Short sale: asking just $149,900.

Natalie Sweet Cathy Martin Angel Miller 813-758-9586 813-376-0891 813-546-9863 It’s ALL ABOUT YOU! Call for a No Obligation Buyer or Seller Consultation ELEGANT EXECUTIVE HOME

COUNTRY LIVING AT IT’S FINEST

UNIQUE 3,000 SQ’ WALDEN LAKE HOME

10 ACRE MOL & REMODELED HOME

This wonderful 2,812 sq’ pool home features a 3-way split bedroom plan with a suite perfect for the in-laws or teens. 3 Acres MOL of irrigated paddocks with a stable in a great neighborhood of upscale homes. Call now for your appointment. $335,000

This 4 Bdr, 3 1/2 Ba Golf Course home features gleaming cherry & bamboo ﬂooring. Split plan w/gorgeous his & hers master bathrooms w/natural stone, granite, & modern design. Huge backyard & lanai w/outdoor bar area, grill & sink. $299,000

4 Bdr 2 B home and everything was updated in 1995 from the roof to the floors. Hardwood floors, enormous garage & workshop, irrigated fields and so much more. $289,900

GOLF COURSE HOME IN HAMMOCKS

ASTON WOODS GOLF COURSE HOME

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4 BDR/2 1/2 Bath/3 Car Gar featuring an updated kitchen, family room w/ﬁreplace & wet bar in dinette. Wonderful entertaining home w/pool & spa & huge lanai /wonderful view of the golf course. Price right at $269,900

Fabulous 4/3/3 w/huge pool & spa. Featuring formal living & dining rooms, an enormous kitchen w/wood cabinets, center island & overlooks arches into the family room, Large bedrooms and so much more. $259,900

WARM & WELCOMING

WALDEN LAKE IN EMERALD FOREST

Move right into this fabulous 5144 sq’ home with 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths on over 1 Acre. Built in 05 and has everything you could possibly want already built into it! $595,000

2635 Sq’ of Living Area w/4 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths & Huge Bonus Room in Walden Lake. Beautifully decorated & lovingly cared for on large fenced corner lot. Priced right at $212,500

BRING YOUR HORSES!

You will love this 4 Bdr, 2 Bath home in Walden Lake featuring living, dining & family rooms. Splash around all year in your solar heated pool. One owner home & pride of ownership shows. $178,500

ALAFIA RIDGE ESTATES SH

Wonderful 3/2/2 pool home in quiet neighborhood. Featuring new carpeting, new roof in 2005, updated bathrooms w/stylish vanities, granite & handsome tile. Formal living & dining rooms plus family room. $189,900

Enjoy the peace and quiet at the end of a culde-sac in this fabulous 4 Bdr 2 Bath Walden Lake pool home, featuring formal living/ dining room and family room off the kitchen. $175,000

This beauty has plenty of room to romp and a 2 stall horse barn on 1 acre. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath built in 2005, side load 2 car garage and spacious kitchen in Thonotosassa. Don’t miss this one! $150,000

Beautiful 5+ Acre Executive Lots in this Gorgeous Gated Community. You will fall in love with this unique Equestrian Community w.21 lots & plenty of wildlife. Horses welcome! From $59,900.

Search for homes at www.AnotherSweetSale.com

real estate walden lake review

Walden Lake Review S to r y by N ata l i e S w e e t

The Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month. The next meeting will be April 19th at 6:00 PM and will be held at the new office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. Sprucing up has begun all around Walden Lake. We had a very traumatic winter as far as the plants and so it will take awhile to get everything back in shape. There are several dead trees due to age and those will be removed and replaced as needed. As you drive around, you will notice that moss and lower limbs are being trimmed along Griffin and Timberlane. The path and park around the lake are complete and the Board thanks everyone for their patience during the resurfacing. Unfortunately, this project took longer than expected due to the cold weather. Marlene continues to do a great job enforcing the deed restrictions in twelve of the communities. Silver Brooke has recently been added to the other neighborhoods that she has been monitoring.

Timberlane going out to Trapnell Road has been repaired and reopened. The Annual Meeting was held on Thursday, April 8th. Current board members, Robert Hunter, Marcus Alexich, and Frank Salerno, were re-elected to serve another term. President Jan Griffin gave an update of items that have been accomplished since the 2009 Annual Meeting. She reported that the Dog Park opened, the cart paths were re-paved, the office and maintenance buildings were constructed and moved in to, commented about the weather and the havoc it played on the landscape within the community, and talked about the sink hole issues. Jan also spoke about the alert system that is set up with the police department and how important it is for residents to provide their email addresses to their neighborhood boards so when there is a significant situation, you will know quickly. Board Member, Glen Allen gave a special presentation to Bob Williamson, who was elected as the first “Homeowner” president in January 2001. During

Board Member, Glen Allen gave a special presentation to Bob Williamson, who was elected as the first “Homeowner” president in January 2001.

Bob’s tenure he was responsible for the transition from WCI to the Board comprised of Homeowners. The plaque was presented in appreciation for Bob’s leadership as the first homeowner president, and his dedication during nine years of service to the community. This plaque will hang in the new WLCA office. During the question and comment period, various residents spoke about the sinkhole issues and how it could possibly affect the residents. One of the residents said that when he received his

insurance renewal in the mail, sinkhole coverage was no longer on his policy. It is suggested that everyone carefully check their current policies and any renewals. This is not only a Walden Lake issue as other areas in and around Plant City were affected. Walden Lake Golf & Country Club has availability for your events and tournaments at the club. Contact Tracey at 752-1171, extension 222 for all your event planning and membership information.

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We are independent april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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ATTENTION: HOMEOWNERS WITHOUT 20% EQUITY Plant City Mortgage is HUD Approved to offer:

No Equity REFINANCE If you have an existing FHA/VA/USDA loan you need to call 813.707.6200 today We have saved so many so many homeowners money off their monthly mortgage payment with a

NO CLOSING COST REFINANCE Your loan balance will not have closing costs added to

 NO APPRAISAL REQUIRED: You did just read that. Equity is not an issue with an FHA STREAMLINE REFINANCE  30 year fixed rates  No Prepayment Penalty  10-12 Days Start to Finish  No payment due until the following month

Sounds too good to be true doesn’t it? It’s not. This is the biggest no brainer I have seen in some time.  Lower your interest rate  Do not add closing costs to the loan (0 out of pocket, not even an appraisal fee)  Start saving money by paying less interest in your monthly payment *PS – If you do not have an FHA, VA, OR USDA loan we can still refinance 105% of your value WITHOUT adding MORTGAGE INSURANCE. Call today to learn more

Nate Davis President Ofﬁce: 813.707.6200 Cell: 813.763.3910 Free Mortgage Report

I recently refinanced my home with Nate Davis at Plant City Mortgage and must say that he makes good on what he says. I did not think I was eligible for a lower rate refinance since I no longer had equity in my home. Wow, I was wrong. Nate counseled me on what programs were available for folks who did not have sufficient equity for other loan programs. Not only did I lower my payment without having to add closing costs to my loan, my next payment due on my mortgage is almost 2 months away! If I continue to make the same payment I was, I will have paid off my home much sooner than I

READ THIS!

the payment, but your interest rate WILL be reduced.

would have before.

If you are timid like I was, set your fears aside and at least talk to Nate to see what your options are. He was very knowledgeable and honest with me and I am sure he would be the same to any other client. Thanks Again Nate, Mr. Lara, Plant City, FL

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

813.707.6200

www.PlantCityMortgages.com foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

WELCOME (BACK) CINDY CLARK!

ESPECIALLY CHARMING

Cindy Clark has joined Coldwell Banker in Plant City…and she’s ready to help you with your real estate needs. Cindy is well versed in Residential & Commercial properties as well as new home construction. Call her today at 813-760-7957.

2 HOMES/1 PRICE

Looking for the in-law suite? This property boasts 2 block homes separated by in-ground pool. One 3BR/2BA/2CG with 1406 square feet; the second home has 1BR/1BA and carport. Not a short sale and in the country and just north of city limits. $235,000. MLS #T2388754. Call Jimmie, 813-390-6441.

BANK APPROVED!

No need to wait for the bank to answer, they are ready to close! This 4BR/2BA/2CG home in Walden Lake boasts a great outdoor patio and shady fence back yard. New carpet and tile; new front door and recently painted interior/exterior. Take advantage of the Buyer Tax Credit today! $144,000. MLS #T2388350. Call Jean Bridgmon, 813-478-3107.

CLOSE QUICKLY!

This beautiful historic home is complete with renovations, upgrades and charm. With more than 2900 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, Butler’s pantry, wine cellar, 2 gazebos, Koi pond and a 2nd floor balcony/sundeck, you will be charmed from the entry to the back yard. A must-see home for the buyer who wants the best; and its priced to sell at $264,000. New roof, new garage door, 3 zoned A/C units and a gas powered generator complete this move-in ready beauty. MLS #T2410336. Call Jimmie, 813-390-6441.

1st Time Homebuyers can take advantage of this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in Dover. This great remodeled home includes a bonus room and metal roof and is located on a nice ½ acre. 1400 square feet and priced at $119,900. MLS #T2400280. Contact Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

LAUREL LAKE!

WALDEN LAKE – HAMPTON PLACE

Single family detached “condo” in private gated community. 2BR/2BA/2CG featuring open living and dining, dinette and screened lanai. Well managed HOA with low fees! Call Maddie Alford @ 813-382-8382 to preview. $155,000.

Escape the brown, winter doldrums in this recently landscaped 4 BR/3 BA pool home in gated community. Split bedroom plan with guest suite at back of house. Open kitchen/family room. Seller offering $5000 paint allowance and a 1-year home warranty! Great value! Contact Lynne Halleran at 813-763-1881 or Jimmie Robinson at 813-390-6441. $249,819.

GORDON OAKS

MARKET YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY TO THE WORLD!!

Come and see this terrific 3BR/2BA/2CG contemporary home located in quiet Gordon Oaks, near historic Plant City with each access to I-4. The open floor plan provides for special times with family and friends and is great for entertaining. Nice Master suite with walk-in closet, garden tub and separate shower. Gordon Oaks has less than 50 homes and low HOA fees. $155,000. MLS #T2410702. Call Roger Burrage, 813-754-3586.

With Coldwell Banker we’ll give your property worldwide exposure on several high-traffic Web sites. Trapnell Ridge Rental 3BR/2BA/2CG $1200.00/month. Call Maddie or Brenda @ 813-754-3586 for more info.

HOME & LAND

NEW LISTING

Location-Location-Location. Charming home in the wonderful Lake Hollingsworth area. Large corner lot features main house with hard wood floors, crown molding, fireplace and a separate studio in the back. Convenient to everything, walk to the lake, schools and shopping. Call Malissa today for your private showing, 813-967-0168. $169,900.

A gorgeous home on 14 pristine acres is waiting for you. This professionally decorated home features hardwood floors, granite countertops, and custom crown molding throughout. Extras include a large 18x35 family room complete with pool table, office, 3BR/2.5BA and 3307 square feet. 2-Car Garage attached and 3-Car Garage detached with plenty of room for storage and workshop. Enjoy peaceful afternoons or morning coffee on the spacious veranda. So much to offer with so much land, you have to see it to believe it! $635,000. MLS #T2408775. Call Malissa for showing, 813-967-0168.

Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City

813-754-3586

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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HOW FAST CAN YOU MOVE? Cute as a Button, 3/2/2, 1813 Sq Ft. Priced to sell but NOT A SHORTSALE! Features: Formal Living & Dining Rooms, “FamilySized” Family Room w/ Fireplace, Cathedral Ceilings, Tiffany Light Fixtures, Bay Window, Garden Tub, Screened Lanai, BIG Backyard. CHARMING! $174,900

GREEN ACRES! Beautiful 2 Acre Lot in Deed Restricted Community of 1800+ Sq Ft Site Built Homes in North PC. Convenient & easy access to I-4 and I-75. Enjoy Country Living but still be able to jump on the Interstate and be almost anywhere in no time! Well in place. Come build your DREAM HOME on this DREAM LOT! $84,900

P E ND IN

WON’T BUST YOUR BUDGET! 2/2, 1456 Sq Ft DWMH in A++ Condition. Features: NEW Appliances, Beautiful Oak Laminate Flooring & 2-Car Carport. Conveniently located between Plant City and Lakeland in a community that offers a Pool, Basketball Courts & Clubhouse. Qualifies for the First Time Home Buyer Credit!

2+ A C R E

L A ND

STEP ON THE BRAKES... 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath Block POOL Home on 2.25 Acres in Plant City just North of I-4. NEW Kitchen, NEW Roof, Gorgeous French Doors & Wood Vinyl Flooring, and an Open Floor Plan are just some of the wonderful features of this home. The in-ground Swimming Pool, Deck & Yard are surrounded by PVC Fencing, but beyond this there’s extra acreage for a Horse or two! $169,900

S HOR T S

GOT COUNTRY? This 4 B/R, 3 Bath, 2578 Sq Ft Pool Home in North PC is looking for a Buyer who wants the best of Country Life. Built in 1992, features include: Cathedral Ceilings, Fireplace, Detached 2-Car Garage & Workshop. Completely Fenced w/ Separate Area for Horses. $269,000

Hurry… Home Buyer Credits expires 4/30!

A LE

SHORT SALE HEAVEN! Cute as a button 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Home in SouthWest Lakeland area (just east of County Line Road) on almost a 3/4 Acre Fenced Lot. Formal Living, Formal Dining, and Family Room too. Newer Metal Roof is low maintenance too. Qualifies for 100% financing! $119,900

Lorraine Bennett (813) 716-3997

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

real estate mortgage

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Seller Paid Closing Costs S t o r y by N at e D av i s

Anytime you buy a home, you typically have 2 buckets of out of pocket expenses. The first bucket is down payment. Some programs offer 100% financing (no down payment) such as VA and USDA financing. These programs eliminate that costs all together. Other programs require larger down payment ranging from 3.5% up to 20% of the purchase price. The other out of pocket expense is closing costs. Closing costs include several required service fees and insurance for your home as well. A savvy buyer can ensure that they have the lowest out of pocket expenses by utilizing seller concessions to pay for their closing costs. The seller does not actually cut a check to the buyer but rather shows a credit on the closing/ settlement statement thereby

reducing the proceeds to them. Listed below are programs and %’s of the purchase price that the seller is allowed to pay for expenses on behalf of the buyer. This allows the buyer to purchase a home with less out of pocket expense. • USDA – 6% (Or the buyer can roll the costs into the loan, as long as the home appraises for the loan amount) • VA -4% • Conventional -6% (with 20% down payment) • FHA – 6% (FHA is considering reducing this to 3% in the near future) In this economy and with rates as low as they are, it is often in the buyer’s best interest to include some if not all of their closing costs as part of their offer.

GRAND OPENING

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Presented Exclusively By: Ken Lawrence-Realtor (813) 704-5924

(813) 716-0187 foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

real estate real estate

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

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

S t o r y by j o - a n lU S k

Have you ever asked, “Why can’t we all just get along”? In these tough economic times, it seems like everyone is mad at someone; protesting; pointing fingers, and on and on it goes. Looking back in history, there has always been an “acceptable” allowance for our opinions and voices to be heard. That is all fine, except when its about ethics. Ethics are standards by which we live and work; they define our operations, guidelines and practices. Ethics determine our reputation among peers, friends and business relationships. In Real Estate, ethics are immeasurable and invaluable. If you are a licensed real estate salesperson, then you are a real estate agent. If you, as an agent, join a local Board or Association of Realtors, and you take the Realtor Pledge, you become a Realtor (real-tore). Realtors abide by a Code of Ethics. This Code of Ethics involves the customer/ client, the Public and other Realtors. Why is this important? In today’s market, it is no longer a buyer and a seller; it’s the bank/lender, Asset Manager, Loss Mitigation, Attorney, Title/Escrow Agent, and the list continues. Transactions are complicated and sometimes

confusing. A little bit of nice can go a long way. Unethical behavior benefits no one. From the National Association of Realtors, the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice establish obligations and responsibilities to clients, customers, the public and each other as Realtors. Realizing that cooperation with other real estate professionals promotes the best interests of those who utilize their services, Realtors urge exclusive representation of clients; do not attempt to gain any unfair advantage over their competitors; and they refrain from making unsolicited comments about other practitioners. The term Realtor has come to connote competency, fairness, and high integrity resulting from adherence to a lofty ideal of moral conduct in business relations. No inducement of profit and no instruction from clients ever can justify departure from this ideal. In the interpretation of this obligation, Realtors can take no safer guide than that which has been handed down through the centuries, embodied in the Golden Rule, “Whatsoever ye would that others should do to you, do ye even so to them.”

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

sports baseball

The Boys of Summer Plant City is Host to Collegiate Spring Training by J o e b o w l e s

Someone once said, “Spring training is the one thing that we eagerly anticipate to begin, but once it has started, we can hardly wait for it to end.” For 46 collegiate club teams, that is their exact sentiment. They plan all year to travel to central Florida to prepare for another season as they hone their skills in the Spring Training Showcase held at the Mike Sansone Park in Plant City. Collegiate club baseball teams are comprised of students who are not members of their respective school’s varsity baseball team, but who still desire to be a part of a competitive baseball program. These teams are affiliated with the National Club Baseball Association that began in 2000 with 33 teams and now includes more than 180 teams. According to Savannah Harp,

Director of Spring Training Operations for NCBA, “Club baseball teams are operated by the players themselves. They manage their own team and take care of their own fundraising. NCBA provides their players with an opportunity to play a high caliber brand of baseball. Some are players who did not make their college varsity team. Others are those who have chosen to play club baseball to avoid the pressure of varsity sports.” For Jack Moore, a left-handed first baseman for the University of Wisconsin, the temptation to continue playing baseball was too great to ignore, “I played high school baseball and when I went to college I still wanted to play. I knew that I wouldn’t make the Badgers’ varsity squad so I got involved in club baseball.”

Leading off the first inning at Mike Sansone Park is Wisconsin’s Cullen Buchanan. Photo by Joe Bowles

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Most of the teams bring family and friends with them. Dennis Breunig, father of Wisconsin’s Jonathan Breunig, accompanied the Badgers on their trip, “My wife and I took some time off to come and watch some good baseball and have a good time in Florida.” That brings us to the best part of this deal. Carlton Benton, Plant City’s Recreation Superintendent, feels this arrangement is beneficial to all parties. “College students get the opportunity to come to the warmer climate of Florida during spring break while they’re preparing for the season to begin. Financially, it works out well for the city. We help arrange the schedule and handle the field preparation for a fee to use the fields.” Harp is grateful for local sponsors,

such as the Red Rose Inn that is serving as the Official Host Hotel. Other local sponsors are O’Brien’s, Outback, Circle K, and Subway. The Showcase is able to return the favor by providing a direct financial impact on the area. Preliminary figures released by the Tampa Bay Sports Commission indicate the NCBA’s economic impact on our area during the month of March is approximately 1.93 million dollars. Collegiate club baseball has been around for nearly thirty years. Only recently, however, has it been organized and recognized nationally. Every season, NCBA conducts a weekly poll of top twenty teams, selects an All-American team, and even holds a World Series to determine a national champion. Last year, Colorado State won their fifth title over the last six years. Some of the boys of summer involved in the Showcase hail from Ohio State, Missouri, Michigan State, and Wisconsin. Three of NCBA’s top ten teams, Penn State, Clemson, and East Carolina, are also Showcase participants.

Wisconsin Badgers bench enjoying spring training in Plant City Photo by Joe Bowles

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Chris Sullivan Making it to the state soccer playoffs is nothing new to the Plant City Raiders who have done so the last four out of seven seasons, but the team they brought to the tournament this year may have been one of their most talented ever. One of the main reasons for their success was their senior goalie, Chris Sullivan, who was able to help propel the Raiders to an undefeated regular season record of 12-0-2. Chris, the son of David and Susan Sullivan, began playing soccer in Plant City’s Recreation Department

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

league at the age of four. From age twelve to fifteen, he added club soccer to his agenda as a defender for the Plant City Lancers. At sixteen, he joined the Valrico Fire, a highly competitive club team that he is still active with today. However, the highlight of Chris’ soccer experience was captaining the highly talented Raiders’ team this season. Talent abounded, with Sullivan in the net, fellow Raiders’ Alan Black and Edgar Montelongo supplying their share of goals, and a new coach, Steven Rossiter, leading the way.

“Coach Rossiter was great. He knows all about the game and he really connected with the players,” Chris commented. Rossiter, a long time club coach with the Lancers before taking over at Plant City, believes that one of the keys to success starts with physical conditioning. That approach enabled the Raiders to jump out to an early lead in every contest and has contributed to the team’s success this season. “We had an awesome team this year. We were undefeated in the regular season and made it all the

way to the regional semifinals where we finally lost in double overtime to Newsome,” Chris proudly recalls. Chris is proficient at most everything he does. He ran cross-country in the ninth grade, played tennis last season, and has excelled at soccer for the past three years. But sports is only a part of who he is. He is also the sergeant at arms for the Student Council and the National Honor Society. He’s the vice-president of the Junior Civitan club, a member of the Best Buddies program, and he is on the leadership team of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. According to Sullivan, his only hobby is “working out,” so he also spends a fair amount of time at the YMCA The loss in the playoffs still stings a bit, Chris said, “But it was a great game, and even though we did lose, it was one of the best games and the longest game that I’ve ever been a part of.” That is saying a lot for someone who has been involved in plenty of big games. His work around the net this year produced an impressive goalsagainst-average of 1.29 per game with three shutouts. A few weeks ago, Chris was recognized for his stellar performance by the Tampa Tribune as an honorable mention All County selection. As the year winds down, Chris is getting excited about college. He has been an excellent student graduating with a 3.5 GPA (5.3 weighted GPA). For the next few years, Homewood Alabama, a suburb of Birmingham, will be his temporary home. He has been accepted to Samford University where he’ll play for the school’s soccer team.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

sports little league

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

Pitching and Power Brandon Farms Sets the Pace in Little League Action By j o e b o w l e s

Pitching and power seem to be the elements that have propelled Brandon Farms to the top of the Majors (11 & 12 year-olds) standings in Plant City Little League’s National Division as they approach the end of the first half. “With rule changes that limit the number of pitches a player can throw and some weeks having to play three games in a week, it is important for a team to have pitchers who can throw strikes,” commented head coach Steve Gude as he reflected on his team’s success. Brandon Farms has utilized four pitchers, Chelsea Baker, Jarrett Joiner, Cory Cotnoir, and Josh Gude. They all can throw strikes with authority. The combination of pitching and an adequate defense has enabled them to capture wins in eight of their first nine games this season, limiting their opponents to an average of only two runs per game. They have also displayed plenty of power with five players clearing the fence. Chelsea Baker and Brandon Connell have two homers each. Jarrett Joiner, Cory Cotnoir, and Josh Gude each have one home run. The team has averaged more than eight runs per contest. “The talent in our league is real

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

strong this year. By the end of the season, I don’t believe that any team will run away from the pack as far as victories go,” said assistant coach Armand Cotnoir. Gude agrees, “The overall talent of our league this year is good. There is consistent talent from all the teams. With the pitch count rule and the inclusion of the continuous batting order, every game is competitive.” The continuous batting order ensures that every player on a team is included in the batting order. Every player must also play in the field for at least six consecutive outs. This guarantees that every player is utilized at the plate all-game in every game. “At first I wasn’t in favor of the continuous batting order, but I am now. It has leveled the playing field and every team has a decent chance to win the game no matter who they are playing,” Gude shared. On Friday, March 26, Brandon Farms brought

their undefeated record to the game against Chemical Dynamics. They were able to squeak by Chemical Dynamics in an exciting nail-biter that wasn’t decided until the last inning when the final out was recorded by a called third strike as the tying run was left on base. The next day, Brandon Farms were handed their only loss of the season by MBC Construction. Brandon Farms scored all four of their runs off home runs but ended up leaving too many runners stranded on base to pick up the win. “The best way to describe it is the

other team produced in the top of their order and we didn’t. They just had a better day than we did,” said Gude. In other league action, Zaxby’s leads the American division with an 8-1 record. J.R. Farms handed Zaxby their only loss of the year at the midway point of the first half schedule by the score of 5-0. Gude is supported by a coaching staff that includes Cotnoir, Rod Mason, and Joanne Connnell. Other team players are Victor Figuerroa, Bryan Kelly, Jacob Cothren, Ethan Parrillo, Nicholas Shinn, Kaleb Tew, and Trevor Violett.

Brandon Farms, Following their win against Chemical Dynamics. Photo by Joe Bowles

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

extra Seniors of the month

Senior

of the by C u r r i e D i c k e r s o n

Month

Erika Kolakowski

Hard work and dedication has pushed this month’s Senior of the month, Erika Kolakowski, to the finish line of her high school race. Her endurance throughout this journey, even through the difficult moments, has built her into a strong

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

individual and proved the intrinsic motivation that fuels her forward on the road to success. Only one out of an entire senior class is awarded the title of Valedictorian, and Kolakowski is now able to

claim that honor. Out of over five hundred fifty seniors, she has proved herself worthy of this distinction throughout her years of academic commitment at Plant City High School. She will graduate with an unbelievable weighted GPA of 7.32, and also a perfect 4.0 un-weighted GPA, evidence to the fact that Kolakowski has never made lower than a B in her entire life. To an incoming freshman who desires to accomplish this feat, Kolakowski shares “Basically, you have to really want it and dedicate yourself to it.” Developing herself into an exceptional leader, Kolakowski has also been given many unique opportunities through various organizations like the West Point Society and Hugh O’Brien Youth (HOBY). She is currently on the Hillsborough County Citizens Advisory Board, and meets with several other students throughout the county once a month to discuss various issues. Kolakowski is President of the PCHS National Honor Society and Captain of the Academic team, proving her commitment to leadership. “I’m a really competitive person and I’ve always had a desire to excel in both academics and sports,” said

Kolakowski regarding her diverse achievements. Last year she was the district champion in the 800-meter race as well as a member of the district champion 4x800 meter relay team, and from there placed 8th in the class 4A State track and field finals in both events. Kolakowski was recently named one of the “Hillsborough County Track and Field Females to Watch” for the 2010 season, and is well on her way to win the state championship this year. With her many accomplishments in tow, Kolakowski is headed to Auburn University next fall with a full academic scholarship. She received over $100,000 from the university for being named a National Merit Scholar, and will pursue an ambitious major in biomedical sciences with a minor in Spanish. She loves science and hopes to eventually work in medical research, and develop drugs for disease cure and prevention. Whatever her journey does entail, this senior of the month is sure to succeed at anything and everything she sets out to do, striving toward the finish line of her dreams.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

sports fitness

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april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Fitness Matters

Expert answers to your health and wellness questions by S e’a r ya n

Question: I’ve been having a tough time with my energy levels for my 6am workouts. I was thinking coffee might help with this, but it seems like it’s always getting mixed reviews. Any cause for concern before a workout? Answer: First things first. If you’re experiencing low energy levels, and you’re not necessarily focused on fat loss, try having a small breakfast, or even a bar or a shake, before you go workout. This will definitely provide the much-needed energy you’re looking for. However, if you’re trying to drop body fat and you’d like to avoid calories that early in the morning, coffee is an excellent alternative. The caffeine in coffee is considered a central nervous system stimulant and will provide a boost of energy, though the effect varies greatly among individuals. Caffeine is actually considered an ergogenic aid, meaning it enhances physical performance. In the right amounts, caffeine has been shown to reduce the perception of effort during a workout, which means your workout will seem easier than it actually is. Not bad for a little cup o’ joe, huh? Keep in mind, coffee does increase heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure, and it can make you a bit jittery if you’re a newbie. Luckily, these effects are relatively mild, especially for healthy folks. In fact, much of the research these days is focused on the potential

health benefits of coffee, rather than any health risks. Question: I was in the gym the other day and I overheard a guy talking about his “No Pain, No Gain” weightlifting philosophy. Do I need to adopt this attitude for my own workouts to see results? Answer: No, not necessarily. It is true that weight training sessions can be intense, resulting in micro-tears and subsequent muscle soreness for a day or two afterward. This is completely normal, and as the body heals itself, the muscle fibers gradually become larger and stronger. This is the essence of strength training. However, if he was implying that a workout is only effective if pain is involved, he is flat wrong. Mild discomfort is common at the end of a hard set, as fatigue starts to set in, but actual pain is never a good sign during a workout. If you’re experiencing this, it usually means you’re severely overworking a muscle or you’ve suffered an injury. Se’a Ryan has been dedicated to fitness her entire life focused on encouraging people to take charge of their own health. To submit a question, contact Se’a at seameditate@ earthlink.net .

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

extra Al ruechel

“Century Gothic uses about 30 percent less ink than Arial which is the most commonly used font. The amount of ink a font uses is mainly driven by the thickness of its lines.”

Winning The Ink War S u b m i t t e d by a l r u e c h e l

Okay, so I can’t help you save your home, or make you skinnier, or pick the top stocks for 2010. Remember me; I’m the guy that picked the Kansas basketball team to win it all. But, I can help you save maybe $20 bucks this year on printer ink. Printer ink? Have you checked the price on one of those stupid cartridges lately? It’s more expensive per ounce than Channel No. 5. And God Bless those printer companies that have decided we need not one, not two, but six cartridges to print. And if any one

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

of those color cartridges is low on ink you can’t even print in black and white because the printer uses some color ink, too. Gee, isn’t that special. I digress! Believe it or not Dutch researchers convinced the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay to switch the font it uses on all its printed documents to Century Gothic. By making the switch the University will save about $10,000 per year. How you ask? Here’s what Printer.com says. Century Gothic uses about 30

percent less ink than Arial which is the most commonly used font. The amount of ink a font uses is mainly driven by the thickness of its lines. A font with “narrow” or “light” in its name, says Hewlett-Packard ink researcher Thom Brown, uses less ink than fonts with the name “bold” or “black”. The problem with Gothic and Times Roman for consumers appears to be the easy with which the thicker fonts are read. Also, the average consumer isn’t thinking about how much ink a particular font uses because they don’t take the long term view of ink use until it’s time to buy a new cartridge. So which fonts are best if you want to save ink? Century Gothic and Times New Roman top the list. Calibri, Verdana, Arial and Sans Serif are next, followed by Trebuchet, Tahoma and Franklin Gothic Medium. But here’s the environmental twist. Century Gothic prints wider than many other fonts and so it requires more paper. Yet, paper is still a lot cheaper than ink so there is the dollar trade off. To further complicate matters Century Gothic

was never designed for full blocks of text. It is usually used in headlines or subject lines because strung all together it can drive you a bit crazy reading all that Gothic. Still, the reviews from Wisconsin so far are positive. No one has jumped into Lake Michigan and the 65-hundred students and faculty could probably use that extra 10-thousand for some other green experiment. Even Microsoft is jumping on board this font-sliming, ink-saving technique. If you noticed the latest version of Office 2009 the Arial and Times New Roman defaults have been changed to Calibri and Cambria. Of course, if you really want to save some ink print in the “draft” mode. Use both sides of a page and do a print preview to make sure you not running off the paper. None of this would matter one hill of beans if the dog gone printer companies weren’t in collusion to keep ink prices just below the cost of gold per ounce. But that is another subject for another time. I mean Times Roman.

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Store Hours: Tues - Fri 10am - 5:30pm Sat 10am - 3pm foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

extra Derek maul

“Recently, mornings have given me a strong awareness of how much I enjoy my life; it seems to have become a theme.”

Shut Up and Listen Already! S u b m i t t e d by D e r e k M a u l

The other day I woke up to an early morning shrouded in fog; I could barely see across the road at the beginning of my walk. The air was so damp that our labradoodle, Scout, stopped every few minutes to shake her coat - as if we’d just come in from the rain. Walking down Miller Road, Scout caught the scent of something interesting and did 200 yards of her best vacuumcleaner impersonation - snout hugging the ground and tail high in the air. “It’s like seeing Sherlock Holmes and his bloodhound come out of the London fog!” the crossing guard at Durant Road exclaimed.

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

We laughed, and continued on as the soft dawn light gradually began to establish a foothold on the day. We arrived home damp and shivering, more than ready for the pot of Fair Trade Ethiopian coffee waiting in the kitchen. Typically, there are two things that can remove a thick layer of fog such as the one I encountered the other morning. First, a breeze: a fresh movement, an inflow of air, can carry the mist with it. It doesn’t have to be much; sometimes just the hint of a gentle wind is enough. Then, there is sunlight. Later, looking out my study window, I could see the light dissolve the last

remnants of mist. My opaque morning yielded to lucent glory via the power of the sun. Recently, mornings have given me a strong awareness of how much I enjoy my life; it seems to have become a theme. I found myself considering this as I finished up our hike the very next day after the fog, experiencing the fresh morning air and anticipating the day. During the walk I purposefully practiced a meditative frame of spirit. I simply tried to listen listen without adding my own noise - and allow God to speak truth into my being. I really want to “hear” - yet I am trying hard not to limit God to the traditional boundaries of “speaking.” I’m learning that I can apprehend something more of God when both of us appear to be quiet. Of course, I have to be willing to understand “quiet” as something more loaded, more redolent than the vacuum our Western consciousness tends to imagine in the absence of noise. I also have to be open to understanding God as more personal, more complete, more multi-dimensional (or, better yet, not dimensional at all) than the cardboard cutout God of my pre-emptive lack of imagination. The point is that I arrived home in communion with both Creator and creation. I mention this because I believe that there is a strong relationship between my spiritual peace and

the statement I made earlier: “Recently I’ve owned a strong awareness of how much I enjoy my life.” I’ve been thinking about the tendency of our day-by-day lives to add noise, distraction, and random activities that are so often devoid of meaning. In fact, I’m suspicious that we value our distractions so much because we’re so uncomfortable with the idea of resting. Jesus - in a passage (from the Parable of the Sower) I’m fond of quoting - said, “The cares of the world, and the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things come in and choke the word, and it yields nothing.” Mark 4:19 It may be accurate to say that we can avoid being confronted by truth if we make sure that we’re too busy to have to face it. But it is equally - and more poignantly - the case to say that if we avoid “The Word” we likewise avoid healing, wholeness, restoration and joy at the same time. Sometimes I think that God simply wants us to SHUT UP and take the time to listen. I, for one, am committed to becoming more open to “hearing” God speak truth into my being. Blessings - DEREK

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

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Board Certified in Radiation Oncology, Internal Medicine & Medical Oncology Co. Director

ALL AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CENTER 303 North Alexander Street, Call 813-719-7705 for appts/consultations foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

extra ken lawrence

Does Hillsborough County Need a Mayor? S u b m i t t e d by k e n l aw r e n c e

With a history, sometimes checkered over the years, Hillsborough County has been operating for most of its existence by a County Commission type of government. That is, there’s been an elected commission of seven members who appoint a County Administrator, usually for five year terms. That person wields tremendous power within the County, appointing his or her staff, including the very inf luential County Attorney. The autonomy of the

Commissioner Al Higginbotham

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Administrator is extensive and as we recently saw, it takes quite a bit to remove that person from office, even temporarily. The recent dispute between Commissioners and Administrator Pat Bean has reignited the call for a change in the way Hillsborough County is run. The argument goes that an elected Mayor will be more available to the public than an Administrator and can be run out of office by the voters every two or four years, depending on the term that is set.

The Mayor will not simply be a ribbon cutter at openings of new businesses or act as a representative of the County at civic, state or federal functions. That is now the case at several local municipal governments in the Tampa Bay region. The Mayor of Hillsborough County, if the voters approve of such a change in the November election, will possess real power. He or she will have virtually the same authority as the County Administrator has enjoyed for many years. Another example would be the Mayor of Tampa’s job. A group of citizens, led by a Tampa attorney has tried previously to get the Hillsborough County Mayor vote on the November ballot, all to no avail for various reasons. They seem very serious this go around and given the controversy with Pat Bean and two other Hillsborough County officials, the timing could not be any better. Not So Fast! Most present members of the Hillsborough County Commission oppose the position of Mayor for this county. One of the leading dissenters is local area representative Al Higginbotham. The Plant City native son has been a Commissioner since 2006, following a very active career in politics including a stint as Chairman of the Hillsborough County Republican Party.

In an Exclusive interview with FOCUS Magazine, Higginbotham says he fears the Hillsborough County Commission will become too partisan and “there are factions that would like to get to the purse-strings in Hillsborough and think they can do so with a Mayor in office”. He also says it will lead to another level of Bureaucracy and result in more expenses for the county. “To me the Mayor would be for Special Interests”, he says. Commissioner Higginbotham says while some state the commission is often split down the middle with Republicans on one side and Democrats on the other, or too many 4-3 votes, that is simply not the case. Statistically, he says the number of close votes involving major decisions, is only slightly more than 2% out of dozens of votes. “Will a mayor answer a phone call about a drainage problem?”, asks the commissioner. As to the sometimes rancorous behavior at Hillsborough County meetings, Al Higginbotham prefers to call it “spirited discussions” and says most commissioners leave their political affiliations at the door. No matter, the “Mayor for Hillsborough” committee is busy gathering thousands of names on a petition. We’ll soon know if there will be such a vote on November 4th.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

entertainment dining profile

Panera Bread by B r i t ta n y C e r n y

Have you ever bitten into a freshly baked, still warm from the oven, cinnamon roll? How about a Dutch apple and raisin bagel, ever had one of those? If you haven’t, it is clear that you haven’t been down Jim Redman Parkway far enough to know all of this and more can be had at Plant City’s Panera Bread. At this bakery-café, a guest can expect to find an excellence in food quality and customer service that cannot be found at any other restaurant, according to General Manager Megan Stewart. With a company motto of “a loaf of bread in every arm,” it is not surprising to find that Panera Bread is so committed to providing the best quality product, that they bake everything fresh every single day. “We have some bakers who come in late at night and work through until just before opening the next morning to bake all of our breads, bagels and pastries for the next day,” Stewart said. Panera Bread also offers samples to the guests who walk through their doors. At the Plant City location, the feature is usually a piece of one of their artisan breads or the bakery-café’s featured item. Once a guest can tear themselves away from the sight of all the pastries in the bakery-café’s display case, you might notice a few other things that set Panera Bread apart from the rest. For one, the bakery-café employs the use of natural light to illuminate their dining areas. This allows the guest to feel at home while dining in the restaurant – a chance to relax and recharge. Bright, bread-inspired modern artwork livens up the warm rich tones of the tables and chairs, adding to the soothing nature of the atmosphere. The relaxing ambience of the restaurant is finished off with the sound of

april 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

classical music gently and subtly playing in the background. The restaurant also donates all of the bread and baked goods they don’t sell the same day to local food banks and charities. This gives Panera Bread the chance to give back to their community, all the while continuing to provide the highest level of freshness for their guests. Stewart said most of the breads and baked goods at Panera Bread seem to be crowd favorites. For the morning rush, cinnamon rolls and bagels “fly off the shelves.” The lunch crowd tends to be a more sandwich oriented guest population. Of the many choices available, the “Bacon Turkey Bravo” and “Cuban Chicken Panini” keep the employees at Panera Bread busy satisfying their guests’ needs and expectations. Panera Bread also caters for large parties and group functions. They provide a wide range of services from simple cookie assortments to sandwich assortments, all tailored to the guest’s wants and tastes. For more information on how to savor one of Panera Bread’s unique creations call them at 813-6590864 or visit them to discover what they’re all about.

Panera Bread offers a casual dining experience both inside and outside their restaurant. Photo by Brittany Cerny

Warm tones, directional lighting and tasty treats tempt every guest who visits Panera Bread. Photo by Brittany Cerny

Panera Bread 2909 JL Redman Parkway 813-659-0864 Hours: Mon-Sun 7:00am-8:30pm

Can’t you just taste those cinnamon rolls now? Photo by Brittany Cerny

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

entertainment red rose

A Rockin’ Good Time at the Red Rose Fourth Annual Doo Wop Weekend by Ly n n e Wa r r e n

Another one is in the books. Another Doo Wop Weekend at the Red Rose Inn & Suites that is. For the fourth year in a row, the Red Rose has hosted a weekend chock full of fun, good ole Rock ‘n Roll, and great food. The event, which took place March 26 and 27, featured headlining acts that included Richie Merritt, Jimmy Gallagher & The Passions, Bobby Hendricks, George Galfo’s Mystics, and PJ Leary and The Vegas Sounds. Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia Sr. certainly know how to throw a Doo Wop party, and this bonanza of fun was too much to be contained in just one evening. It began Friday night, continued Saturday, poolside, and kept on rolling through Saturday evening. Friday night featured a good old-fashioned Sock Hop. The first order of business was dinner, where guests were treated to delights from a themed menu. PJ Leary and the Vegas Sounds kicked off the entertainment for the evening, and it was a non-stop marathon of music and fun that ran late into the night. The more adventurous in the crowd, for whom plainold-dancing wasn’t enough, could test their skills in the various contests. Whatever 98

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their specialty, there was a contest for everyone: the Twist, Hula Hoop, and the Jitterbug. Richie Merritt wrapped up the entertainment for the night, and sent guests on their way wanting for more. What’s a Doo Wop Weeked without a pool party? Saturday mid-day around the Red Rose pool had to be one of the highlights of the event, with a classic car show, beach blanket bingo, a biggest bubble (bubble gum) contest, and a Doo Wop Bootcamp. It was a great time to soak up some good old Florida sunshine, relax, and enjoy treats from the Pool Side menu. And the menu was absolutely fitting for the occasion; What could be better than burgers, hot dogs, fries, onion rings, and soda floats for an afternoon around the pool? Saturday night capped off the weekend with a great lineup of entertainment, and even more fun. The costume contest had guests decked out in their best rendition of ‘50s attire. After a wonderful dinner, and a little music and dancing, it was time for the Stroll contest where guests strutted their stuff in an attempt to take the unofficial title of Stroll King or Queen.

And no old time Rock ‘n Roll party would be complete without the Locomotion! After all the dancing, strolling, and locomoting, it was time to settle in for more great entertainment. Judging from the turnout and the smiles in the crowd, the Doo Wop Weekend at the Red Rose was again a great success. If you missed it this

year, plan to be there next time. It’s great fun, and with rooms and suites available, makes for a great weekend getaway. For more information on upcoming events and entertainment at the Red Rose Inn & Suites, visit their website: www. redroseinnandsuites.com, or call 813-752-3141.

The Mystics and The Clovers. Photo courtesy of The Red Rose Inn And Suites

Come stroll.... Photo courtesy of The Red Rose Inn And Suites

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

entertainment artist of the month

Art on A Larger Than Life Canvas Local Artist Creates Natural Faux Expressions on Walls S to r y by H e at h e r D av i s

From a very young age Claudia Moon was given free reign to create art in what some may view as a non-traditional way. She was allowed to draw all over her bedroom wall with chalk. For many years Claudia’s bedroom wall was her canvas, upon which she would let her imagination run wild. As a result her parents cut out a piece of the dry-wall where she had created art and took it with them for many years on their moves. Through years of marriage and kids Claudia’s desire to create art on what could be considered a larger than life canvas - blank walls - remained strong. With time she once again began to pursue what became known as Faux Painting, experimenting over and over again on her kitchen walls while finding inspiration in nature, magazines, and art galleries. Wanting to expand past her own kitchen walls, Claudia approached a well established Faux Artist and began to apprentice with him and was able to work with him for more than three years. Building both confidence and technique, Claudia began her own Faux Painting business known as Wall Illusions. For the past twenty three years, Claudia has specialized in one of a kind individual wall finishes such as stone, marble, tortoise shell, gold leaf, aged patinas, and wood grains, just to name a few.

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Claudia’s faux work is so admired and specialized that she has never had to advertise as her business has grown from word of mouth. She has had the opportunity to work in many various establishments from high end residential to well known restaurants and hotels. As her children have grown, Claudia has been able to travel extensively creating a deeper well of creativity and inspiration from which to draw upon. When asked how she maintains her edge, Claudia explains that she has a trip that she makes quite frequently where she flies to Salt Lake City, Utah. From there she has a motorcycle in storage that she rides for many miles through the deserts, mountains, and bad lands absorbing the scenery and finding inspiration in the colors of the rocks, the dirt and trees, and in the sky. With her helmet open she expresses that she is able to actually “smell the colors”. Claudia was also able to do the same thing in New Zealand where she was able to absorb the color until it became a part of her. It is no wonder that Claudia is able to express with pure joy that every day she is excited by what she does. You may contact Claudia Moon or view her Faux Finishes at www.wallillusionsbyclaudia. com. Photo by Abby Moon

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New Wood Floors | Sand and finish hardwood floors Dust Free System | Stairs

Let your Mother know she’s special with ﬂowers on Mothers’ Day, May 9, 2010. Order your arrangement Early!

Jerrod Parker Private Guitar Lessons

Spring Bouquet

Monday - Friday 9-5:30 Saturday and evenings by appointment

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967-2862

Hometown Attorneys Working For You Personal Injury

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813.759.1224

206 n. Collins St.· In Historic Downtown Plant City

Johnnie B. Byrd, Jr.

David H. Barnhill

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SHOW YOUR PRIDE Buy a Memorial Brick to Honor a Veteran Plant City’s new Veterans’ Monument at Courier Field is allowing you the opportunity to commemorate our USA Veterans with an engraved memorial brick. Each brick will become a permanent part of history in Plant City! Memorial bricks are open to all veterans of the USA military services: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard.

The Veterans Monument and Park at Courier Field will be dedicated and open to the public on July 1, 2010 5:30pm to 7:30pm. All bricks purchased prior to June 5, 2010 will be displayed at the Dedication.

Include the name, rank, branch of service and dates if they ﬁt into the character limits of 15 characters per line.

We encourage everyone to honor the US Veterans in their life!

Payment enclosed:

Check

Money Order

$150 Each Brick

Donor’s Name: Mailing Address: Phone Number:

Brick Engraving: 3 lines- 15 characters each line, including spaces and punctuation. PLEASE PRINT.

You don’t want to miss out on this great opportunity!

Line 1 (15 characters) Line 2 (15 characters) Line 3 (15 characters) Send to: Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation, Inc., PO Box 5013, Plant City, FL 33563-0036

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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Thank you Plant City for 4 Years in Business!

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813-967-6859 foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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entertainment calendar

thursdaY, aPril 15, 2010 5:15 PM - Business After Hours hosted by The Red Rose Inn & Suites Location: 2011 North Wheeler Street

fridaY, aPril 16, 2010 11:00 AM - Children’s Classic Golf Tournament To benefit South Florida Baptist Hospital, Plant City Chamber and Kiwanis Club. Sponsorships, Foursomes, Individual Players and holesigns available. For more information call Amy 813-754-3707 Location: Walden Lake Golf & Country Club

saturdaY, aPril 17, 2010 4:00 PM - Strawberry Classic Car Show 4 - 9 PM. Car Show, Vendors, Local Antique Shops open, Live Music, and Great Commeraderie. Parking in North and South lots near the Depot, Drane, and Palmer. For more information call 813-754-3707. Location: Historic Downtown Plant City 8:30 AM - Spring Clean Up MacDonald Training Center Spring Clean Up. 8:30 AM 1:00 PM. Meet at McDonalds on 39. For information and to RSVP call Veronica Prostko

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870-1300 ext 301 Location: 10:00 AM - Grand Reopening Dart Container Recycling Center 10AM - Noon Location: 4610 Airport Road

tuesdaY, aPril 20, 2010 10:30 AM - Ribbon Cutting for H. Charles Locksmith Location: In Front of the Chamber @ 106 N. Evers St. 8:30 AM - Spring Clean Up MacDonald Training Center Spring Clean Up. 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM. Meet at James Ranch. For information and to RSVP call Veronica Prostko 870-1300 ext 301 Location: 2902 Cork Road 4:00 PM - New Member Reception Location: Plant City Chamber of Commerce - 106 North Evers Street

fridaY, aPril 23, 2010 saturdaY, aPril 24, 2010 The Annual Relay for Life will take place at Plant City High School starting at 6 PM on Friday, April 23 rd. and continue till noon Saturday, April 24th. This event benefit’s the American Cancer Society. For

information call Jessica HongTanner at 813-685-0670 extension 5457.

saturdaY, aPril 24, 2010 Saturday, April 24th. is the date of the 2nd. Annual Raiders Football Golf Invitational. This is taking place at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Registration is at 7:30 AM with a shotgun scramble format at 8:00 AM. A lunch and awards ceremony will follow along with raffle prizes and silent auction. For more information contact the Raiders Football Hotline at 813-4414432. The 23rd Annual Rainbow Ball will be held on Saturday, April 24th, 2010 in the Red Rose Ballroom at the Red Rose Inn & Suites in Plant City. The event benefits the many programs of the Child Abuse Council. This years theme is “A Night in Vegas” Please make plans to join us for this special event. Scrapbooking Event 5:30 pm call 813-918-1612 for more details Focus magazine 101 E. J. Arden Blvd.

mondaY, aPril 26, 2010 7:30 PM - City Commission Meeting

Location: City Hall

wednesdaY, aPril 28, 2010 10:30 AM - Ribbon Cutting for the new home of Watson Clinic Location: 615 E. Alexander Street

fridaY, aPril 30, 2010

saturdaY, maY 1, 2010 5:00 PM - Bike Fest 5-9 PM. Motorcycle Show, Contest, Vendors, Live Bands and tons of fun. Main Stage at the Depot (Palmer/Drane)Call 813-754-3707 for more information. Location: Historic Downtown Plant City

entertainment calendar

The Second Annual Tribute to Life Golf Tournament will be held at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club, 2001 Clubhouse Drive, Plant City at 8:30 am. The proceeds from the tournament go to provide for 4 charitable organizatins that all focus on helping youth groups in Central Florida and in Alabama. For up to date news, information and registration forms visit the Tribute to Life website at www.tributetolife. org.

thursdaY, maY 6, 2010 saturdaY maY 8, 2010 National Day of Prayer Opens Three Day “Heal Me Crusade” National Day of Prayer will be held on Thursday May 6, 2010, at Plant City Stadium at 7PM. This event will open the crusade which will continue May 7th and 8th at the same time and place. Admission is free each night. The National Day of Prayer is a non-denominational event for the community to unite in prayer for their military, politicians, and other government officials. The Honorable Mayor Rick Lott of Plant City will be on the stage, along with Christian recording artist Rita Springer, Pastor Tony Stewart of City Life Church Tampa, and musical artist Kaci Stewart.

This is only the beginning of a three night event which will feature preaching, music, and a nightly call for prayer, salvation, and healing.

thursdaY, maY 6, 2010 Mark your calendars for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce COMMUNITY EXPO. This event will take place at the Trinkle Center on the HCC Campus. This is open to the public and admission is free. Over 70 local businesses will be showing off their products, services and provide you with information, There will be free food samples, door prizes and giveaways. The event starts at 2 and goes on to 6 PM. Plan to attend this great event and learn all about the businesses in Plant City and what they have to offer.

saturdaY, maY 8, 2010 Plant City’s First Baptist Church will be having a 5K run/walk on May 8, 2010 to raise funds for our upcoming mission trip to Guatemala. We are excited about this opportunity and want to make you aware of an opportunity to help that will be beneficial to both you and our participants. What we are asking of our business partners is a donation which is 100 percent tax

deductible. If you have any questions, please call Mike Storter at 813-716-6332.

mondaY, maY 10, 2010 7:30 PM - City Commission Meeting Location: City Hall

tuesdaY, maY 11, 2010 8:00 AM - Leadership Plant City 2009 - 2010 SCHEDULE Friday, September 18, 2009 Orientation 1:00 pm Dinner 6:30 pm Tuesday, October 13, 2009 Education, Arts & Media Tuesday, November 10, 2009 Law Enforcement, Public Safety & Justice Tuesday, December 1, 2009 Retreat Day Tuesday, January 12, 2010 Business & Tourism Tuesday, February 9, 2010 Government, Environment, Parks & Recreation Tuesday, April 13, 2010 Healthcare, Wellness & Social Services Tuesday, May 11, 2010 Economic Development, Transportation Planning & Historic Preservation Friday, May 21, 2010 GRADUATION

wednesdaY, maY 12, 2010 7:30 AM - Contact Breakfast 7:30-9:00 AM. Membership Breakfast. Each month with

a differnt sponsor, speaker, good egg, and a cashpot drawing. Location: Red Rose Inn & Suites Ball Room

fridaY, maY 14, 2010 Cork Elementary Family Fun Night will be held from 4:30 7:30 p.m. at 3501 North Cork Road, Plant City. Food, games, bouncers, free community demonstrations, and a special talent show will be featured. Join us for an evening of fun for the whole family and the whole community!! For more information or to become a sponsor, contact Aimee Boggs at (813) 757-9353.

saturdaY, maY 15, 2010 4:00 PM - Strawberry Classic Car Show 4 - 9 PM. Car Show, Vendors, Local Antique Shops open, Live Music, and Great Commeraderie. Parking in North and South lots near the Depot, Drane, and Palmer. For more information call 813-754-3707. Location: Historic Downtown Plant City Margarita Ball Where: Lott Residence - 3200 Polo Place Phone: 813-754-3707 Contact: Amy amy@plantcity.org foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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Hometown Banking at its best!

Come and bank with your friends and neighbors

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Isn’t it beautiful? Let’s keep it that way!

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“I’m always on a tight schedule...the office, the hospital, emergencies. I don’t have much time for banking chores. The folks at Sunshine State have always been good about accommodating my schedule...even staying late if needed. And their service and rates are excellent. I’ve been with them since 1980. When it comes to my banking, I don’t need a second opinion. It’s Sunshine State.” If you’re a business owner who’s become lost in the “bigbank shuffle”, come talk to us. We have the services, the people and the strategies to help you grow and succeed. Call or visit our office nearest you today.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2010

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DON’T MOVE

IMPROVE!!!! CENTRAL FLORIDA CONSTRUCION CO. HAS NOW JOINED WITH CREATIVE CUSTOM CABINETS

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