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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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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
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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ContEnts
VOLUME 9 ISSUE 6 - JUNE 2010
PublisHEr Mike Floyd officE MANAGEr Dede Floyd coPY EDiTor Lynne Warren
FAMILY OF COMMUNITY MAGAZINES
ADVErTisiNG DirEcTor Brent Simmons sAlEs Sophia Hyde Sheryl Vitelli Holly Far mer ProDucTioN Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena focusTV Brandon Hyde
ONTHECOVER
greater winter haven eDitiOn
branDon EDiTion
Bill
Logan
SOMER HARVEY & ERIKA KOLAKOWSKI
WFLA Anchor / Reporter
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Also in this issue:
First Annual FOCUS on you Makeover Good Eats Delivered to your door by the Takeout Butler
june 2010
lake COUNTY LAKE countY EDITION edition
SOUTH TAMPA EDITION
Blaine Vermeulen
23
FOCUS Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa
57
FOCUSTV
65 MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories New Episode Every Wednesday
70 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
6
june 2010 thefocusmagazine.com
106
loCal
Photo by Suzanne Gallagher Photography
From tea with the Queen and the always exciting Margarita Ball, to youth recreating a homeless ‘cardboard city’ camp, there were a lot of interesting things going on around Plant City this month. Browse the local section to see what’s happening in our town.
foCUS on yoU MaKeover
It’s FOCUS ON YOU Makeover time again. Th is year, four deserving women were selected, each nominated by someone who recognized something extra special about them. Robynn O’Connell, Virginia Almazo, Kimberly Wills, and Juli Garrod were treated to a day of pampering, courtesy of Focus Magazine and several generous local businesses. Join us as we discover each woman’s unique story, and follow them through their makeover day.
featUre
Although the community of Plant City has historically been highly patriotic, holding evens and ceremonies to pay tribute to our military, we have never had a veteran’s memorial. Now, after five years, a lot of planning and hard work, fundraisers and generous donations by local businesses and organizations, the Plant City Veteran’s Monument and Park are becoming a reality.
SPotlight intervieW
It’s hard to believe, but another school year has come and gone. Two very special seniors have a bright future ahead of them. Erika Kolakowski and Somer Harvey, Valedictorians from Plant City High School and Durant High School, respectively, are both exceptional teens. Each has excelled in their high school careers, and they are now ready to head to college.
bUSineSS Profile
Having a nice lawn can be a real challenge here in Florida. A good landscape maintenance company is essential. U.S. Lawns of Lakeland specializes in landscape maintenance, installation, fertilizaton, pest control and irrigation.
dining Profile
An institution in Plant City dining for as long as most of us can remember, ABC Pizza is one of those great places where you know you can get consistently great food at an affordable price. Featuring both Italian and Greek cuisine, ABC has made a name for itself in our community, and has garnered a loyal following.
12 - talk of the town 54 - did you Know? 56 - Plant City Chamber of Commerce
78 - home guide 90 - athlete of the Month 96 - Senior of the Month 98 - al reuchel
100 - derek Maul 114 - event Calendar 116 - Just for fun
DisTribuTioN Doug McGee Belva DeVane PHoToGrAPHErs Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser sTAff WriTErs Cheryl Johnston Carolyn Miller Brian West Joe Bowles Steven Richardson Krystal knowles Brittany Cer ny Derek Maul coNTribuTors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Sherrie Mueller Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Natalie Sweet Felix Haynes EDiToriAl iNTErNs Currie Dickerson
sTANDArDs of AccurAcY The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-war ming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us. So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and infor m it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications. com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner. Readers who wish to respond to an article – not correct facts – can do so by writing a letter to the editor. If you need any other type of assistance, then please view the directory for the appropriate department. The staff at FOCUS Magazine is committed to serving their consumers and customers to the fullest of abilities. You’re paying attention to our words. Let us pay attention to yours.
FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at editorial@floydpublications.com. 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.
Dr. Derek M. Busciglio Dr. John A. Busciglio
Braces and Invisalign for Children and Adults Free Consultations • Affordable Financing Available
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NEW LOCATION
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623Brandon East Alexander Street • 813.759.9474
515 Corner Street, Brandon 813-681-9473
at Alexander Crossings Plaza We are located in the Lake Brandon Professional Park at 1165 Nikki View Drive. The professional park is near the intersection of South Causeway Blvd. and South Gornto Lake Rd. (next to Kohl's Department Store).
Plant City Dental Specialty - 623 East Alexander Street, Plant City, FL
Lake Brandon Professional Park
LUMSDEN RD.
KINGS AVE.
CAUSEWAY BLVD.
PROVIDENCE RD.
S. GORTO LAKE RD.
From Cross-Town Expressway: Enter Brandon (East) exit to Falkenburg Road exit. Exit Falkenburg Road and turn right onto Falkenburg Rd. Left turn onto Causeway Blvd. Right turn onto S. Gornto Lake Rd. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.
U.S. HWY. 301
From Tampa (north): Take 1-75 (South) to Riverview/301 N. Exit (#254). North on US Hwy 301 to Causeway Blvd. Right turn (East) onto Causeway Blvd. Right turn onto S. Gornto Lake Rd. Right N turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn BRANDON BLVD. (HWY. 60) onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.
Wisdom teeth / Other extractions Dental Implants / Bone Replacement Corrective Jaw Surgery
Plastic, Maxillofacial Reconstructive Surgery 1165 Nikki View Drive
From East Brandon (Hwy 60): Head west on Brandon BLOOMINDALE AVE. Blvd/Hwy 60 towards Tampa. Left turn on Kings Ave. Take Kings Ave. south to Lumsden Rd. Right turn (West) on Lumsden S Rd. Left turn (South) on Gornto Lake Rd. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate Left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left. From riverview: North on US Hwy 301 to Causeway Blvd. East on Causeway Blvd. Right turn on S. Gornto Lake Road. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.
Oral Cancer Screening/Biopsy Facial Trauma Repair Cosmetic Facial Surgery
Jack A. Davidson, DDS, MD, PLLC
MEMBERSHIPS INCLUDE:
TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU
Board Certified in Plastic, Maxillofacial & Reconstructive Surgery
PLanT CiTy
Brandon Location: From Hwy 60: Head west on Hwy 60 towards Clarence Gordon 1165 Jr.Nikki View Drive Road, turn right at Hwy 39/James L. Redman Parkway, turn right at East Alexander Our office will be on the right. Brandon, FLStreet. 33511
W. TRAPNELL RD
COUNTY LINE RD.
TURKEY CREEK RD.
American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons The American College of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
E. ALEXANDER ST.
E. TRAPNELL RD
The Florida Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons The American Society of Dental Anesthesiologists The Florida Dental Society of Anesthesiology
39
60
60
S
toward Connell Rd, take the 1st right onto Holloway Rd, turn left at Hwy 39 N/James L. Redman Pkwy, turn right at E. Alexander Street. Our office will be on the right.
The American Medical Association 92 R ST.
KE E. BA
W. BAKER ST.
JAMES L REDMAM PKWY
From Turkey Creek road: Head north on Turkey Creek Rd www.davidsonsurgery.com
The American Dental Association N
S. ALENXANDER ST.
From West Baker Street: Head southeast on W. Baker St 623 East Alexander St., Plant City, FL toward N. Mobley St., continue to follow N. Alexander Street. Our office will be on right. (just north ofthe Wal-Mart) From East Baker Street: Head west on E. Baker Street/Hwy Phone 60/US #: (813) 92W towards N.571-1516 Wilder Rd, take the 1st left onto Park Rd, continue Jim Johnson Rd. Our office will be on the right. Specialty: Oral &ontoMaxillofacial Surgery
From County Line road: Head south on County Line Rd towards Medulla Rd, take the 1st right onto Medulla Rd, turn right at Co Rd 574/Coronet Rd, turn left at Roberts Ranch Rd., turn left at Jim Johnson Rd, take the 1st right onto E. Alexander St, make U-turn. Our office will be on the right.
Board Certified in Dental Anesthesiology foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
7
letter from
THE Publisher
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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
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Walker Plaza, 617 N Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 ATM Available at Customer Service TECO Payments Accepted
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june 2010 thefocusmagazine.com
It’s amazing to me how many people today want something for nothing. People want to reap benefits without putting in hard work to earn the rewards. Very few things in life are given to us free and clear, and of those things that are, they usually came because someone else put in the hard work before us. I’m sure we can all think of times in our lives when we gave up one thing to gain something so much greater. For me, I can look back at my high school experience and it’s significantly different than most teenagers. I don’t have many stories of my close high school buddies and the things we did on the weekends or all the school sports and activities I participated in. For me, my free time was completely consumed at the racetrack. I was passionate about motocross and many days after school were spent training. Every weekend, I was either traveling to a race or at a local track training for an upcoming competition. However, during that time I gained such intimate relationships with people who are still part of my life. It’s where I met my wife and where I gained all my initial work experience, and even how I got into the magazine business. Because of my intense training I know what I feels like to win the race. I was able to climb through the ranks and go pro. You can’t just buy a bike and expect to be the first one to cross the finish line or race with the big boys. It takes a lot of sacrifice along the way. This month, we have several incredible stories of people who have made a lot of sacrifices to get where they are. Take for example the two girls on our cover. If you read no other stories in this issue, please give the girls the respect of reading what all they have accomplished. I was absolutely blown away by their achievements. Seventeenyear-old Somer Harvey will start at the University of Tampa as a junior. Plant City’s Erika Kolakowski earned over $150,000 in scholarships to Auburn University and this month is competing nationally for track. I’ve barely scraped the surface of their accomplishments, but I guarantee you these girls have given up a lot over the last four years that other students weren’t willing to sacrifice to get them where they are. Our feature this month is on the new Veteran’s Monument. The Bible says there is no greater sacrifice than to lay down your life for a friend. The men and women who have laid down their lives for our country deserved to be recognized, so on July 1 Plant City will be having a dedication of the new park to honor our veterans. Remember how I said there are some things given to us free and clear at the expense of others? Our veterans of past and present are responsible for many of those. And finally, this month also features the in-depth story of this year’s “Focus on You” Makeover. (Also covered on FocusTV at www.thefocusmagazine.com) Four women who have made a lot of sacrifices for their families and their community were rewarded with a day of pampering thanks to many local businesses. I hope you enjoy our June issue of FOCUS Magazine and can appreciate the sacrifices many of these people have made for our community.
Mike floyd Publisher
h lasSummer Spinto Style!
HAIR Lisa Bailey Nanette Granville Laan Cruickshank Douglas Dickson Lisa Edwards Jana Evers Veronica Fernandez
NAILS Linda Kickliter Christal Maxwell JoAnn Register LaVonne Sapp Carla Youmans
Krystal Gallagher Jenna Gates Stephanie Karr Nanette Granville Millied Molina Cindy Parmenter Sarah Pentecost
MASSAGE/ESThETICIANS Leah Clark Tonya Groninger
Megan Register Nicole Smith Mistie Snell Collins Ashley Showalter
RECEPTIONISTS Brooklynn Beauchamp Lindsey Edwards
MANAGER Mary Murray
OwneRs Ron & Jana Evers
1505 South Alexander Street • Suite 102 • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.717.7700 Job Opportunities Available
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
9
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A very special thank you to every one who had their pets groomed and donated hair to help build booms to protect the gulf estuaries.—Christy Layton, DVM 1704 Walden Village Ct. Plant City (813) 754-PETS (7387) We offer: Dentistry • Emergency Care • Grooming • Preventive Medicine • On-site Laboratory • X-ray Service and Upscale Boarding
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
11
TalkoF tHE Town ADULT SOFTBALL SUMMER LEAGUES
PLANT CITY COUPLE CELEBRATES 60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Bill & Beverly Naset celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary April 9th with their family. Bill & Beverly were married in Watertown, Wisconsin where they were High School sweethearts and King & Queen of their Jr. and Sr. Class. They moved to Plant City in 1957. Bill taught mathematics at Plant City High School for several years and worked at First National Bank for a period of time before becoming proud owners of Maryland Fried Chicken. The establishment has been family owned and operated for 41 years. Bill & Beverly have four grown children, Craig Naset of Moreno Valley California, Mark Naset and Kim McElveen of Plant City and Tavia Cowell of Dover. Eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
ADULT SOFTBALL SUMMER LEAGUES: (games are played at the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex and Plant City Stadium) It’s almost time for Summer League play! Teams need to get their registrations in soon! Registration for Adult Softball Fall League play will be held now through June 25 at the Recreation & Parks Department administration offices, 1904 South Park Road, phone 813-659-4255. Due to limited space this summer, divisions are available for Monday Co-Ed and Tuesday Men’s League. $210 for the 6 game schedule is due by June 25. The season is slated to start July 5. The 8 game seasons and Men’s Doubleheader League will resume in the fall. Registration info is available by contacting Program Manager Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov. com or call 813-659-4200 ext 4302.
SECOND ANNUAL
“GARDENFEST”
The Plant City Garden Club will hold its second annual “GardenFest” on September 25, 2010 at the Plant City Train Depot on Palmer St. Vendors will sell plants to garden art. There will also be speakers and The Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club will be cooking up Hamburgers & Hots dogs. Hours are 9:00 A.M. till 3:00 P.M. This event is free to the public. For more information contact Mikie Snyder @813-752-9363
TuNE iN To focusTV Powered by
myfocus tv.com 12
june 2010 thefocusmagazine.com
Cork
Night a ry Fun 3 Element 8
ow ity - Sh Plant C
United Food B an k
Plant City - Sho w 84
eo ver n You Mak O S U C O F h o w 85 nt City - S Pla
local TAlK of THE ToWN
YOUTH FISHING DERBY
SENIOR CONNECTION PRESENTS THE ALL NEW FUN FEST & JAMBOREE!
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALEXA MCELVEEN, METRO PCS COMMUNITY SCHOLAR
Congratulations to Alexa McElveen on being selected as one of MetroPCS 2010 Community Scholars. Alexa was also previously awarded the following awards and scholarships: Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Plant City Jr. Womens Club, PCHS Student Council Leadership, Scholar Athlete, 2010 Sr. Class Prom Queen. Alexa will be attening University of Central Florida majoring in Speech Pathology.
SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL FOUNDATION ELECTS NEW OFFICERS The South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation Board of Directors has elected the following officers for a one-year term: Joseph E. Sedita, CPA/PFS, CFP® president, re-elected for a fourth term; Sylvia B. Knox, vice president, re-elected for a fourth term; and David Sullivan, secretary/treasurer, elected to fill the unexpired term of Robert Tanner, who passed away unexpectedly in December.
PLANT CITY CHEER POWER
For youth ages 6-14 yrs at the Winter Visitor Center, they meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 to 6:45 pm. Cost is only a $20 registration fee and $10 for each weekly practice session. For more information, please contact instructor Angela Steverson at 813-4585228.
SKATE PARK SUMMER HOURS
The Plant City Skate Park will be open all summer! The 8,500 square feet facility, located inside Mike Sansone Park, will be open and staffed seven days a week from 12:00 noon to 9:00 pm. Users must have a valid city-issued Skate Park photo ID and signed release waiver on file. A 12 month pass is only $25 per person and allows unlimited use when the skate park is open. ID card and paperwork are available at the Recreation & Parks administration office, 1904 South Park Road. For more information, please contact Recreation Supervisor Chris Washburn atcwashburn@plantcitygov.com or call her at 813-659-4256.
Hey Seniors! Join us for the all New Fun Fest & Jamboree, June 30, 2010 at the Strawberry Festival Grounds in Plant City. This event will bring all the great things that our Fun Fests are known for plus more! Free Admission! Free Parking! Over 80 Senior Friendly exhibitors will provide information on services and programs in the area. Free Health Screenings through out the day. Free coffee and goodies provided by Bob Evans and Costco. A Senior Friendly lunch will be $5, or you may bring your own lunch. Entertainment will include the popular Denise Looney the DJ with a Twist, Fritzy the one man circus, and Eddy Rivers the Brooklyn Cowboy. Put your Boots on and get ready for some Square dancing too. Of course there will be Free Bingo for Prizes and Games of chance. Chances to win over $1,000 in prizes and giveaways through out the day. Come on out…bring a friend and enjoy the day inside the air conditioned Strawberry Festival Expo building located off Reynolds St in Plant City. Doors open at 9am and close at 2pm. Call 813-653-1988 for information. See you there!
USF YOUTH FIELD DAY AT THE RANGE CATTLE RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CENTER
The University of Florida’s Range Cattle Research and Education Center in Ona, FL will be hosting the 3rd Annual Youth Field Day on June 29th. The day will begin at 8:00 a.m. and conclude at approximately 3:30 p.m. This is an opportunity for youth ages 8 through 18 to take part in Farm tours and participate in discussions related to beef ultrasound, reproduction, farm and horse safety, careers, and weather/climate. The cost of the program which includes a shirt, tours, lunch, and literature is $10 and is due with registration no later than June 18th. Please send your registration directly to the Range Cattle REC as indicated in the brochure. 5339 County Rd 579, Tampa, FL 33584-3334, USA
FOCUS MONTHLY GIVEAWAY WINNER Ginny Walker was presented the trip giveaway by Rhonda Hardee of Travel By Horizon. Ginny won a 2 night accommodations at the AllInclusive Beachfront Resort, Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace in the Dominican Republic, for registering for the Focus Deals program. Visit www.thefocusmagazine.com to get registered for the next trip giveaway or text “focus” to 32075.
Saturday, July 24 is the date for all youths ages 5-15 to wet their lines and participate in the Youth Fishing Derby. 2010 is our 14th year of offering fishing derbies. This free event allows area youth to fish in the pond behind the Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex off Gordon Food Service Drive (formerly Albertson Drive) and compete for various awards. Pre-registration is preferred and is available through July 21 at the Recreation & Parks Department administration offices, 1904 South Park Road, phone 813-659-4255 or you can fill out and submit the online registration form at this link. You can also register on site from 7:00 to 8:00 am the day of the event. Landshark Charters, Inc and others are assisting us in presenting this event, keeping it free for the youths – thanks to them for their support. For more information, Program Manager Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@ plantcitygov.com or call her at 813-659-4200 ext 4302.
SUMMER YOUTH SPORT CAMPS
The Recreation & Parks Department is working to offer youth camps for basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, football and soccer this summer. For more info on any of these camps, contact Program Manager Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com or call 813-659-4200 ext 4302.
FREE SAFE SITTER COURSE
The Network of East Hillsborough Neighborhoods, funded by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County is offering a FREE Safe Sitter Course on June 30th from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at The Network located at 639 East Alexander Street in Plant City. You must be at least 11 years old to take this course. Class size is limited; please reserve your seat by calling the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital call center at (813) 870-4747.
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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local focus
Annual Cork Family Fun Night by C h e r y l J o h n S to n
Cork Elementary School students, staff, and family members recently enjoyed their annual “Cork Family Fun Night.” Th is year’s theme was “Cork’s Got Talent.” That is defi nitely true! So many children applied to perform at the May 14th event that a lottery was necessary to select those 26 who would be granted a spot on the program. Unfortunately, time limitations prevent everyone who would like to from entertaining. Entertainment also included games such as ring toss, golf, fishing and a Cake Walk. Teachers and parents were especially pleased to see students exchanging two tickets for a book of their choice at the book booth. Parents and generous businesses such as Dinosaur World and Bob Evans Restaurant donated money and items, including themed baskets, to be auctioned in the fundraising effort. Th is year’s basket themes included kitchen, sports, home décor, beauty, and kids. Nothing can get children more excited than the opportunity to “dunk” their teachers or school administrators by throwing the perfect pitch. Aimee Boggs, the school’s PTA fundraising coordinator and VP, complimented the “wonderful teachers and staff who volunteered to get in the tanks.” Their efforts complimented the school’s “Catch the Wave of Learning” motto. Families also enjoyed the demonstrations by Cork Fire Rescue, and the K-9 and bomb squad units. The funds raised from Family Fun Night are used to buy supplies for classrooms. Monies raised in previous years are being used now
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to break ground on a covered court, which should be ready for use when school resumes in late summer. The Cork community surrounds its namesake school, so much so, that children thrive in the positive atmosphere where they know that their wellbeing and education are of central importance. Since 1994 Cork has been a “Five Star School.” Hillsborough County purchased the original 1-1/4 acre site in 1879 for the school that was once a “Strawberry School” whose sessions were determined by the growing season. Today the Grade A school’s completely renovated red brick building sits in the middle of almost 13 acres, along with a music room, multi-purpose room, and new 16-classroom building completed in 2006. The school is located at 3501 North Cork Road. Sponsors are welcome to contribute towards this and other events all year ‘round. For current events, visit the Cougar website at http://cork.mysdhc.org.
Jackson Bazley volunteered to grill burgers for the hungry families at the annual fundraiser. Photo courtesy of Aimee Boggs
Catch more on this story on FOCUSTV Episode 83 at thefocusmagazine.com
Music specialist Jennifer Edelblute came prepared for a dip in her swim goggles. Photo courtesy of Aimee Boggs
Principal Melody Murphy used her squirt gun to taunt the children who hoped to see her hit the water. Photo courtesy of Aimee Boggs
10
Happy Birthday
Zane
We are so proud of you and everything you have accomplished this year. You are a very special son and big brother.
Love, DaD, Mom & Zy
Show off your Style with new cabinetS Add beauty and additional storage space in your home!
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Come Check Out Our
beautiful Showroom Granite & Marble Gallery 813-707-5600 • Cell: 863-670-2092 1103 Goldfinch Drive, Plant City, FL 33566 foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
15
local focus
Happy 100th Birthday – Flora Wallace by C h e r y l J o h n s to n
Flora Barnhill Wallace loves celebrations. When she realized her church family had planned a big one in her honor, she announced it everywhere she went to whomever she met. She wanted everyone to party with her. The oldest member of the Plant City Church of God celebrated her 100th birthday last month with almost 200 friends and family members. The diminutive, silverhaired “Wallace,” as friends call her, looked lovely in a red suit and ear-to-ear grin. Wallace shared the tables of honor with her Plant City grandchildren, Maureen Edgeman, Keith Wallace, and Matt Edgeman of Cowee, Georgia, along with their families. Beautiful photographs surrounded the birthday cake and a chocolate fountain for fresh strawberries was a refreshment favorite. Flora was born on May 7, 1910 in Baker, Florida, as the seventh child
in a family of 14 children. After her graduation in 1933, she moved with uncles to Okeechobee, Lake Wales, and Sarasota, where she worked at various jobs including childcare attendant, grapefruit canner, and plant nursery worker. At 27, she and husband Claude Wallace welcomed daughter Hazel. Flora moved to Plant City in 1975 to be near Hazel and her three children. When Hazel Wallace Edgeman died of cancer, Flora continued to live on the property of her son-in-law and grandchildren. In 2000, she moved in with her friend and caregiver, Emma Jean Morgan. According to Morgan and those who have witnessed it firsthand, “very few people could outwork Wallace.” Morgan adds, “Flora has always been a hard working person who loved to serve God and help others.” In her younger days, she managed a 500-acre farm in Baker, chopping five acres of cotton every day during
Flora Wallace celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by friends, church family, and her grandchildren Maureen Edgeman, Keith Wallace, and Matt Edgeman. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
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harvest time. This work ethic assured continuous job offers, which Wallace credited as “God’s provision.” Flora became a Christian at age 24 when she attended a revival in a neighbor’s garage. Seven families accepted Christ, which led the female property owner to donate her land for a new church building. Flora recalls another building being dismantled for wood to build the first Church of God in Plant City on 13th Street, where she became the first song director. Since that time, the church has occupied buildings at 8th Street, Lemon Street, and now its Mud Lake Road location. Wallace has always been involved in ministry, beginning with music, then as a young boys’ Sunday School teacher, a parking attendant and home-cooked meal preparer for the Strawberry Festival, Ladies’ Ministries leader, a Prime Timer and continual prayer warrior. For 19 years she also ministered each
Sunday morning at the Forest Park Convalescent Home. A dear friend, Bobbie Goodson, recalls going to the strawberry fields with Wallace to pick berries: “Wallace picked berries so she could give them away. She’s always been a giver.” Pastor Robert Herrin frequently recognizes Wallace in church services for her faithfulness and prayerfulness. She claims The Lord’s Prayer from Matthew 6 as her favorite Scripture passage and reads her Bible daily. She’s also known for her wonderful hugs and happy smiles. Everybody loves Sister Wallace. Herman and Ilene Sears, who lead the church’s ministry to seniors, felt privileged to organize the 100th birthday party for “the woman who’s known as ‘Get it done’. Ilene Sears credits Wallace as “ the first to lead the way. She’s an amazing woman who leads by example.”
Flora Wallace, 100, rarely misses a Sunday service, thanks to her friend and driver, Emma Jean Morgan. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
17
local focus
Sandy Van Oosten (WLE teacher), Ashley Blessin, Katelyn Yarbrough, Dina Wyatt (principal at WLE). Photo by Suzanne Gallagher
Young Innovators in Plant City by S u z a n n e G a l l a g h e r
Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician
Is It true that Doctors of chIropractIc are hIghly rateD as prImary health care provIDers?
Doctors of Chiropractic are very capable of serving as primary health care providers, says a study conducted by The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Two panels, one consisting of medical doctors and the other of doctors of chiropractic, concluded “with respect to a list of 53 primary care functions found to occur daily in medical offices, doctors of chiropractic can make diagnoses in most of them and can make therapeutic contributions”. Both panels agreed that primary care responsibilities include: information gathering with assessments, screening and prevention activities, diagnostic procedures and techniques, counseling and education, management of acute and chronic illnesses, services to special population groups such as geriatric or pregnancy care and instruction on complementary modalities of care.
The results of this report correspond to an earlier statement made by the Center for Studies in Health Policy: The DC (Doctor of Chiropractic) can provide all three levels of primary care interventions and therefore is as much a primary care provider as are MDs and DOs (Osteopaths). The Doctor of Chiropractic is a gatekeeper to the healthcare system and independent practitioner who provides primary care services. The DC’s office is a direct access portal of entry to the full scope of service. Special Note: On Sunday June 20th is Father’s Day, we would like to thank all Fathers, Grandfathers, and all men for the many good things they have done and do each day. Blessings, Dr. Dukes and Staff
Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician 752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566
Dr. Dukes encourages you to write her with any questions concerning chiropractic care.
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Congratulations! Ashley Blessin, a third grader at Walden Lake Elementary School won the Grand Prize in the elementary school division of the Innovation Express, 2010 USF Young Innovator Cup. Ashley’s winning invention, the Two-Way Cupper is a multi-beverage drinking vessel. The grand prize award was $1,000 cash, a $100 gift certificate to the Learning Express toy store, a $50 gift certificate to Outback Steakhouse and a one year family pass to MOSI in Tampa. Walden Lake Elementary school was awarded a matching prize of $1000 and will host the USF Young Innovator Cup Trophy for one year. The annual invention contest, in it’s second year, was founded by 11 year old Anna Hopen, whose father, Anton Hopen is a patent attorney and the contest’s director. On February 1, 2010, twenty-five USF professors who are all patent holders read through hundreds of entries submitted from eight counties in Florida. The ten finalists presented their inventions on February 11 (Thomas Edison’s birthday) at MOSI’s Science Works Theatre. The judging panel included Dr, Karen Holbrook, Vice President for Research and Innovation at USF, local celebrity Jen Holloway, inventor and former Bay News 9 anchor, Kevin
Harrington, star of ABC’s Shark Tank and Dr. Paul Sanberg, Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation at USF and holder of more than 30 patents. Plant City’s young innovators were assigned the contest by Sandy Van Oosten, Walden Lake Elementary Gifted teacher. Three of Mrs. Van Oosten’s third grade students received awards this year. Katelyn Yarbrough, was one of the top five elementary school finalists. Her invention, Wipits, are disposable deodorant wipes. Honorable Mention was awarded to Jacob Voelker, for the Voelketron, a GPS tracking device for lost toys, pajamas, etc. All students who entered the contest received a one day pass to MOSI and are invited by Mrs. Van Oosten for a field trip of exploration with their teacher. Children are often called our hope for the future. They are naturally creative, curious and expressive. Teachers inspire and motivate our children by providing them with the knowledge and skills to needed to channel their creative energy and thus solve problems. “Our objective is to simultaneously foster the creative spirit with and appreciation for the core education needed to make childhood dreams a reality.” – Innovation Express
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
19
local focus
Brighton Campaign Benefits Local Charity by K e l l i e g h K l e i n
The United Food Bank of Plant City was presented with a $10,000 donation at Sister’s and Company on Wednesday, May 18th as part of Brighton’s Feed Our Friends fundraiser. Sister’s & Company was among retailers across the United States that joined with Brighton last summer in selling a limited-edition collection of semi-precious jewelry designed especially to help feed struggling Americans. “When we heard that there was an opportunity to help feed the hungry, specifically in our area, we were so excited; we hold the food bank particularly close to our hearts. Never could we imagine that our nomination would so greatly benefit our community, this is such a blessing”, said Devony Scott of Sister’s & Company. “To help us decide where to direct our donations, we asked retailers who participated in the
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fundraiser to nominate their American Heroes – people in the community who lead tax-exempt non-profit organizations that are feeding people,” said Laura Young, president of sales and marketing for Brighton, a Los Angeles-based maker or fine ladies accessories. “We selected the United Food Bank of Plant City and Kelleigh Klein from among hundreds of entries that we received because of the passion that Sister’s & Company and the store’s customers showed for the work their ‘hero’ does in the community.” Donating by design is a continuing tradition at Brighton, where founder and owner Jerry Kohl and his team of designers have created jewelry collections that have raised over $3 million for breast cancer charities and over $1 million to fight women’s heart disease. With the American Heroes collection,
they focused their creative efforts on the growing number of people going hungry due to the economy. “We all have people in our lives that we’re concerned about, so I decided to find a way we can make a difference in their lives,” Kohl said. “That’s how the American Heroes jewelry and additional Feed our Friends programs came about.” “The United Food Bank is very grateful to Devony Scott for utilizing her creative business talents to plan a fun evening of fashion and head up a strong grassroots effort that has lead to this very generous donation from Brighton. The United Food Bank of Plant City is honored by this recognition,” according to Kelleigh Klein (United Food Bank Executive Director). Proceeds from this donation will go towards helping the United Food Bank begin its Children’s Nutrition Outreach Summer Program. This
program is designed to provide free breakfast and lunch groceries to children who may be at risk of going hungry when school meals are not available. Children must be referred from a local Area VI school to participate. Through generous support of the Plant City community, the United Food Bank was able to expand this outreach last year to spring break, Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks which resulted in serving approximately 5,100 clients with over 90,000 pounds of food. Due to the current state of the economy, this year’s demand for food is expected to be even greater. For more information about the United Food Bank, visit www. uf bpc.org or call (813) 764-0625. To learn more about the latest trends in fashion, visit Sister’s & Company at 104 E Reynolds St., Plant City, or 14145 7th St., Dade City, or online at www.sistersboutiques.com.
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813-754-6300 foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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Focus On You
Makeover 2010
FOUR WOMEN WON
A
DAY
OF
Story and Photos by Miriam Rattes and Sophia Hyde
Peering over the conference table, sifting through letter after letter, the staff of FOCUS Magazine was back at it again. They had finished reading the stories of several deserving women nominated for their strength and courage, and now had to make the tough decision. Out of all of the heart-felt stories of these women, only 4 could be chosen. Once the story of Robynn O’Connell was picked from the stack to read, it was clear to everyone that she would be awarded a day of pampering as a 2010 “Focus on You” Makeover winner. A mother of three, Robynn puts her children first for everything. She has three children, a 10-year-old daughter Keirsten, a 7-year-old son Matthew, and a 10 and a half month-old baby son Mark. Keirsten is a fourth grade student at Cork Elementary. This year as a writing assignment, all the fourth graders had to write a letter nominating someone, and when reading her letter, several of the staff were brought to tears. A busy mom, Robynn must also face the daily challenges of raising children by herself as her husband, Charlie, fights for our country in Iraq. It’s been difficult raising a baby by herself all the while having a constant concern for her husband half-way around the world who she misses very much. Keirsten wrote in her nomination that with everything that goes on Robynn has lots of patience, love, and understanding and always makes sure that her children are taken care
PAMPERING
of before anything else. Next, Virginia Almazo was chosen, nominated by her son, Juan Abad-Almazo, also a fourth grader from Cork Elementary. Virginia is a wife and a mother of six who works long hours to be able to provide the basic minimum for her family. Virginia works in the fields under the blazing sun, packing blueberries until sunset everyday while struggling to care for her children, one of which is a 6 month-old baby. While going to work everyday to pay off the six operations she has had in the past to have her children, as well as other expenses, she must drop off her baby at the RCMA every morning. Virginia never has time to treat herself, as she is always looking out for her family or working. There was no doubt in the minds of the staff at FOCUS Magazine that Virginia deserved a day of pampering. For someone who already has so much on her plate, Kimberly Wills never stops adding on to it to help others. Nominated by her step-daughter and step-son, Kory and Austin Wills, Kimberly Wills’s story shone, as she was selected as a 2010 “Focus on You” Makeover winner. Kimberly has two children of her own, and two from her marriage of two and a half years. Kimberly has been through extremely difficult situations as she has lost one of her own children and raises a son who suffers from ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
23
Before
After
Along with the day to day stress that is involved with caring for her children and making sure the proper attention is given to her son, Kimberly never questions to help in any situation if someone else’s child is in trouble. One night, Kory Wills’s friend was left alone without any notice of where her mother had gone. Kimberly immediately took Kory’s friend into her home and cared for her. In addition, Kimberly will lend a hand to look after her friend’s sick child over night or even for days. There is much pressure in caring for her children as well as somebody else’s while her husband is out of town for work during the week. Having health issues is another burden in her life as she pushes through each and everyday for everyone but herself. It seems as if there wouldn’t be any time in a day to do all that she does, but Kimberly always finds a way. Kimberly definitely deserved a day in which she, for a turn, would be taken care of. Juli Garrod, nominated by her husband John Garrod, is one
Before 24
After
june 2010 thefocusmagazine.com
Before
After
who never gives up no matter what struggle she encounters. With every situation she faces, she is always going in with a strong sense of courage and a big heart. After being settled with three kids, into the household came two children to stay “temporarily”. Shortly after that, another young child came under Juli’s protection. Juli manages to look out for six children along with bearing the extreme difficulties that come along with their personal needs. Multiple visits to the doctor and counselors were a result of caring for children with special needs. Along with those visits, the obligations Juli took on led her to court where it was deemed that the children should be placed in her care permanently. A wife, a mother, and a hero- Juli Garrod strives to give everyone the best, which is why FOCUS Magazine knows that she deserves the best herself. When the big day arrived, everyone met at Fred’s Market restaurant for breakfast as a kick-off to the amazing day that was about
Before
After
chen donated the Fred’s Southern Kit here winners, pictured the breakfast for all is. Ru with manager Vivian
All of the ladies went to Sister’s & Co. to shop for their new outfits. Two of the wardrobes and all of the shoes were provided by Dillard’s at Westfield Mall of Brandon. Sister’s donated the other two outfits and all the jewelry.
provided a Tahoe Bartow Chevrolet ride in style to all for the winners to out the day. gh ou thr ps their sto
the donated a Tahoe for Stingray Chevrolet n. tow d un aro ladies day to chauffeur the
to follow. This was everyone’s first chance to meet. Robynn brought her daughter Keirsten along for the day, and Juan came with Virginia. Waiting outside the restaurant were two Chevy Tahoes that were donated by Stingray Chevrolet and Bartow Chevrolet in which the four women would be chauffeured throughout the day. After breakfast, the women hopped in for a ride to Sister’s and Company to pick out an outfit for later that night. Dillard’s at Westfield Mall donated a plethora of outfits for Virginia and Juli to shop through. Robynn and Kim’s clothes were donated by Sister’s & Co. Lynn Willis helped the women decide what colors to choose along with the jewelry that would compliment them best. Sister’s also donated the jewelry for each winner, and sent them all home with a goodie bag. Dillard’s provided shoes for all the ladies. After mixing and matching clothes and jewelry to put together the right ensemble, the women headed over to the spa to indulge. Julie and Robynn went to The Artistry and received soothing massages from Leah Clark along with facials from Tonya Groninger that left them both looking radiant. Meanwhile, Kimberly and Virginia were at The Breeze getting relaxing massages and facials that afterwards made their skin glow. Sloan Short was the esthetician who provided the facials at The Breeze, and Terry Sutorus donated his time to provide the massages. The women left the spa feeling refreshed and met up again for lunch at Johnson’s Barbeque. Enjoying the traditional southern barbeque with their delicious sweetly baked bread and sweet tea, all were energizing back up for their second round back at the spa. When she returned to The Artistry, Robynn sat back and relaxed as Linda Kickliter gave her a manicure and pedicure. She also painted Keirsten’s nails, Robynn’s daughter, in her favorite color. Just a minute away, Nancy Tran pampered Kimberly as she gave her a manicure and pedicure at The Breeze while Virginia was delighted by the manicure
by ed by vided provid wass pro ch wa lunch us lun AA del icious delicio Q. BBQ. n’s BB Joh nson’s Johnso
Mrs. Evelyn Madonia and Executive Chef Matteo Casini came by and greeted each of the winn ers. Pictured here with Juli Garrod and her husband John .
Robynn and her daughter Red Keirsten dancing at the Rose Dining Room.
Kimberly Kimberly and and Robynn Robynn with with their their custom custom desserts. desserts.
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
25
a relaxing spa experience Juli and Robynn received Artistry. for an entire day at The Artistry hair stylist Cindy Parmenter did a fabulous job on Juli Garrod’s hair.
Virginia and Kimberly we
re treated to an entire day of pampering by The Breeze.
Millied Molina of The Artistry was the makeup artist who gave Juli her new look.
Mistie Snell Collins of The Artistry did both the hair and makeup for Robynn.
The Breeze Stylist Brittany Hood of ly. ber Kim for p keu ma did the
r stylist Leslie Salter was the hai ated her don o wh eze Bre The from r. hai ’s inia Virg time to do
Vanessa Sparkman of The Breeze was the makeup artist for Virginia.
and pedicure she received from Sloan Short. Now came time for the part that many of the women were looking most forward to, the hair and makeup. Probably the biggest transformation of the day was Kimberly who walked in a blonde and told her stylist at The Breeze, Matt Timmons, that she wanted a complete transformation with multiple colors in her hair. As you can see in her before and after, she looked like a brand new woman with brunette and red hair, highlighted by blonde throughout. Brittany Hood did Kimberly’s makeup. The whole time Matt and Brittany were at work, Kim refused to look in the mirror. She waited until it was all complete and when she turned around to see her reflection, she started crying tears of joy. In the chair next to Kim, Virginia was having her hair done by Leslie Salter. She took a little length off, added some red and straightened her hair. Over at The Artistry, Robynn gave Mistie Snell, the hair stylist and makeup artist, the freedom to do whatever she wanted, which resulted in a fabulous new look. Cindy Parmenter styled Juli’s hair and gave her a few highlights to make her glow, followed by Millied Molina who did Juli’s makeup. Both of the ladies looked absolutely amazing as they headed home to get dressed and await the arrival of the limo. Around 7:30 p.m. the limo, donated by Crown Royal Limousine of Tampa, with the four ladies and their dates at The Red Rose 26 june 2010arrived thefocusmagazine.com
Inn and Suites, which provided a five-star dinner. Every year The Red Rose Dining Room is extremely generous and waits on the ladies like royalty. From appetizers to bread, soup and salad, to the entrees, all the food was amazing. When no one was expecting it, the servers walked over and placed a beautiful piece of cake in front of each of the ladies that had been hand-lettered in strawberry syrup “Congratulations” and their name. During the dinner, Mrs. Evelyn Madonia also came over and greeted each of the winners. Then, of course, there was some dancing and electric slide throughout the night as well. Congratulations to all the winners. This day was highly deserved. And thank you to the local businesses who donated their services to make this day possible.
FOCUSTV The entire experience, and interviews with all of the ladies, was covered on FocusTV. Visit thefocusmagazine.com/makeover to see the full episode by clicking on Plant City and watching episode 85.
(L to R) Sloan Short and Nancy Tran were the nail technicians who did the manicures and pedicures at The Breeze for Virginia and Kimberly.
Bartow Chevrolet 1475 West Main Street Bartow, FL 33830-4397 (863) 533-0777
Sisters & Co. 104 East Reynolds Street Plant City, FL 33563-3352 (813) 754-0990
Crown Royal Limousine of Tampa (813) 265-4213
Stingray Chevrolet 2002 North Frontage Road Plant City, FL 33563-2700 (813) 359-5000
Dillards at Westfield Brandon 303 Brandon Town Center Mall Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 653-4436 Fred’s Southern Kitchen 1401 West Doctor Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard Plant City, FL 33563-5027 (813) 752-7763
er kliter Kicklit da Kic Linda and Lin Sappp and onnee Sap Lavonn (L R) Lav to R) (L to res icu res ped icu and ped s ure and nicures manic the ma ed the pro vided provid Juli.i. and Jul ynn and for Robynn for Rob
for ure for nicure manic did aa ma alsoo did Lin da als Linda er. ghter. daught ynn’s’s dau Robynn n, Rob Kei rsten, Keirste
Johnson’s BBQ 1305 Dr MLK Blvd Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 759-0009
The Artistry Salon and Spa 1505 S Alexander St # 102 Plant City, FL 33563-8406 (813) 717-7700 The Breeze 1309 South Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563-6588 (813) 754-6592 The Red Rose Dining Room 2011 North Wheeler Street Plant City, FL 33563-1860 (813) 759-1888
Lea rk Clark Leahh Cla vid pro one ed aa one vid pro ed hou ge ssage massa hourr ma at istryy Artistr The Art at The for and ynn and Robynn for Rob Kim ly. berly. Kimber
theirir ed the eived receiv whoo rec ies wh ladies the lad Bot of the Bothh of ted to trea ted to re we trea re eze we Bre eze The Bre from The es from ser vices servic s. oru s. Sut ry oru Ter Sut ry from Ter ges from ssages massa ur ma one -hour one-ho
Esthetician Sloan Short of The Breeze did both Virginia and Kimberly’s facials.
of ns of mons Ma Timmo Matttt Tim did eze did aa Bre eze The Bre The ge image te ima com plete comple on ver on ma keover makeo hair.r. ly’s hai Kim berly’s Kimber
Tonya Groninger of The Artistry provided facials ya for Robynn and Juli. Ton has participated in the “Focus on You” Makeover every year since the beginning. foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
27
local focus
Divas and Dudes On Tour for Autism by K e l l e i g h K l e i n
On June 12th Divas and Dudes gathered in Downtown Plant City’s McCall Park for the second annual High Heel Hike, raising money to help fi nd a cure for Autism. Plant City is one of eleven cities who will participate in Burt’s fundraising efforts to support Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue. The High Heel Hike was created by Jules Burt, America’s Pop Art Diva, to champion the effort to increase awareness for Autism, one heel at a time. Jules champions the efforts of communities nationwide by forming teams to hike in their heels on behalf of the children and families affected by Autism. Divas (and Dudes) throughout the country will raise donations and awareness for Autism. According to MayoClinic. com autism is one of a group of serious developmental problems called autism spectrum disorders (ASD) that appear in early childhood – usually before age 3. Though symptoms and severity vary, all autism disorders affect a child’s ability to communicate and interact with others. The number of children diagnosed with autism appears to be rising. It’s not clear whether this is due to better detection and reporting of autism, a real increase in the number of cases, or both. While there is no cure for autism, intensive, early treatment can make a big difference in the lives of many children with the disorder. Th rough fundraising efforts like the High Heel Hike, Generation Rescue is able to make grants available to help support treatments for patients that may not otherwise be covered privately or by other third-party organizations
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(www.generationrescue.org). Generation Rescue, a 501(c )3, is a parent-founded and parent-led organization whose efforts span across 38 countries, provides education, medical assistance and treatment for children with autism spectrum disorders. The nonprofit helps thousands of children improve their symptoms or recover from Autism. Sponsors for this year’s Plant City Hike include Bartow Chevrolet, 103.5, Red Rose Inn and Suites, National Watermelon Promotion Board, Little Black Dress, Positive Impact Magazine, Zepp Stretegic Partners, Florida Virtual Schools, Central Florida Construction, All About Graphics, and Foto’s R Fun and Tampa Electric Company. Leading up to the event teams hosted creatively designed fundraisers like bake sales, car washes, and socials to help boost their donations and awareness of the disease. Annie and Jimmy Carapezza hosted Rock and Roll for Autism “Carapalooza 2010” and raised over $4,500. In addition, this year Dudes are included in the fun and fundraising efforts. The Red Rose Inn and Suites hosted “Dude’s in the Doghouse for Autism Little Black Dress Party.” According to Burt, “Guys (dudes) don’t usually like to go out in high heels especially on Saturday’s sports day, but they do want to help raise awareness for Autism.” Dude’s in the Doghouse is designed to have Divas kidnap dudes to help raise additional dollars for Autism. Th is continues to be a very successful year of fundraising for Jules Burt and High Heel Hike. Jules is so excited about doing her national tour for
Autism (2010 Divas on Tour for Autism). Memphis just signed on for November so that will make eleven stops this year! “I am going to have bad feet by the end of this, but it’s all worth it,” Burt says. Overall, Jules Burt’s community
efforts have raised nearly $400,000 for charities. For more information about High Heel Hike visit www.highheelhike.com. Catch more on this story on FOCUSTV Episode 86 at thefocusmagazine.com
Queen diva jules burt and little miss plant City Court members Sarah ardrey, jadea broome, Kendall gaudens and emmy Shouse. Photo by Kelleigh Klein
team golden girls, sponsored by florida insurance Center. Photo by Kelleigh Klein
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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local focus
Camellia Rose Hosts
Tea with the Queen by C h e r y l J o h n s to n
When Ellen Garrett established Camellia Rose Tea Room & Boutique, she also initiated an annual tradition to commemorate the strawberry heritage of Plant City. Each year for the past three, she has hosted “Tea with the Queen” in the lovely Victorian-themed shop in historic downtown. During that event, she names a new tea blended especially for the new Strawberry Festival Queen. Reservations for the annual event are first come-first serve. The 2010 event on May 15th feted Strawberry Festival Queen Natalie Burgin and her court: First maid TyLynn Eben, Dayla Dementry, Rachel Hallman and Ashlyn Robinson. The 2010 tea named in the queen’s honor, “Natalie’s Berrylicious,” is a black and green tea blend. It’s now available for purchase in the shop. After a time of tea and table talk, Queen Natalie and each court member introduced themselves and shared a little personal history. Guests asked questions and were excited to know the girls in red just a little better. As always, the ladies represented the festival, the industry, and our town with class. A proper afternoon tea at the picture perfect tearoom offers homemade delicious soups, sandwiches, salads, desserts, scones, and 50 of the finest loose-leaf teas from around the world. Christine Knowell and her daughter Charisma, 4, visit the Camellia Rose often so Charisma can have her favorite sandwich – the scrumptious grilled cheese. This is the first year, however, they’ve had tea with the queen. Charisma attends the “Little Cougars” pre-school at Durant High School, but she’s hoping to compete in the festival queen competition one day. Her mother is helping her to
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dream big and dream early. The Camellia Rose is a family affair, too. Garrett’s mother, Nancy Hensley, is the gourmet chef and her daughters, Stacy Allman and Keri Swafford, and granddaughters, Mackay and Hannah assist with customers. Ellen’s husband Bob likes to help behind the scenes. The beautiful boutique is a woman’s delight and Plant City’s premier destination for shopping and tea enthusiasts. Merchandise includes tea accoutrements, fine jewelry, fragrances, fashions, and home accessories. Treasures from notables such as Christine Alexander, Mary Frances, Kameleon, Chamilia, Vintage Revival, Switchflops, Dunoon, Lomonosov, Two’s Company, Crislu, Trollbeads, Tom Ford, and Nataya are in stock for the perfect gift purchase. A great selection of greeting cards makes the shop a place to visit regularly. For a very special afternoon, come experience traditional English teatime with a Southern flair and celebrate friendships and life’s milestones. Camellia Rose is the perfect intimate setting to celebrate birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, church functions, business or civic group meetings and so much more. It’s a place to ease your soul and simply be. Life should always be this sweet! Conveniently located in historic downtown Plant City at 120 North Collins Street, Camellia Rose is close to I-4 in central Florida, 30-minutes east of Tampa and 45 minutes west of Orlando. Hours of operation are Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Phone 813-659-TCUP (8287) or visit www.camelliarose.com for reservations or information.
Charisma Knowell, 4, is surrounded by 2010 Strawberry Festival Queen Natalie Burgin and her court: (L-R) Dayla Dementry, Rachel Hallman, Queen Natalie Burgin, TyLynn Eben, and Ashlyn Robinson. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
It’s tea and toast time!. Seated (L-R in foreground) Christine Knowell and daughter, Charisma; Queen Natalie Burgin; sisters Hannah Swafford and Mackay Swafford. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
2010 Strawberry Festival Queen Natalie Burgin and her court (L-R) Dayla Dementry, Rachel Hallman, Queen Natalie Burgin, TyLynn Eben, and Ashlyn Robinson enjoyed the tea, the guests, and the shopping. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
HAPPY FourtH oF julY
As we enjoy this Independence Day, let us also celebrate our freedom. We are free to set goals, make choices and take steps to prepare for the future we want to live.
Call today to start taking steps toward your financial independence. Stephen W Shouse, Financial Advisor, AAMS 1514 S Alexander Street Suite 206 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9400
Michael Cameron, Financial Advisor 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1491
Tim Shuff, Financial Advisor, AAMS 104 N Evers St Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1071
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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Teen Girls’ Locks of Love Haircuts by C h e r y l J o h n s t o n
Students at Turkey Creek Middle School want to make a difference in their school, community, and world. Over a year ago, Mrs. Lora Parson, the AVID coordinator at TCMS challenged her class to plan a community service project. These students have been learning what a gift it is to give back to others. Five girls decided that since they were blessed with strong, thick, beautiful hair, they could commit to growing it long enough to cut off for “Locks of Love.” On April 29th in the school’s media center and with the help of hairdressers Selina Keely and Carmen Comas, they did just that. When the haircut day arrived, Parson said, “I supported them and we have been waiting for the time to come. This was their chance to step up to the plate. They wanted to be role models for their school and community! I am always challenging my students to give back where they can, and I am so proud of the young ladies for their sacrifice.” Locks of Love, established in 1997, is a public non-profit organization whose mission is to return a sense of selfconfidence and normalcy to American and Canadian children under age 21 who suffer long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. The teamwork effort works like this - donated hair of the highest quality is used to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Volunteers open and sort
the donations, and the manufacturer hand-assembles each piece, which requires 4-6 months. Since children comprise over 80% of the donors, this is definitely a charity where children have the opportunity to help other children. Most helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college-readiness system designed to increase the number of students who enroll in four-year colleges. It focuses on the least served students in the academic middle. Today, AVID has been adopted by nearly 4,500 schools in 45 states, the District of Columbia and 16 countries/territories, and serves approximately 400,000 students in grades 4-12. Eighth grade student Abigail Calderon was pleased for this opportunity to “do,” to put action to words and the classroom lessons she’d learned. She explained her decision, saying “We are so blessed in our lives and to give back something so small will be so big for a special child. I really hope to bring a smile to a child’s face and to motivate them to keep on going.” From the size of the smiles on the “new do” girls, it appears to be mission accomplished. Thank you, young ladies, for your courageous act of charity.
John Dross, Operations Manager
813.719.7530
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Abigail Calderon- Carmen Comas cutting hair R) Yesenia Castizo, Selena Keely cutting hair. Photo courtesy of Lora Parson
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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Cardboard City One Night Spent Homeless by C h e r y l J o h n s to n
Almost 100 people, ages 8 to 60, spent a night together recently – in duct-taped boxes huddled across the Plant City Church of God parking lot – a night they’ll never forget. The “residents” willing to give up creature comforts for 12 hours (7p.m – 7a.m) on May 21, 2010, brought only a sleeping bag, one canned good, and their Bible. Soul’d Out Youth pastors, Mike and Peggy Nelson, desire teens they teach twice weekly understand the homelessness issue. Rather than a film detailing the no-place-to-layyour-head dilemma, they wanted them to live it. Hopefully, students could offer practical help. Assembling the cardboard box shelters required teamwork - some folded, some taped, and some offered “construction” tips. The most creative corrugated homes had decorative touches – graffiti, camouflage, chimneys, lanai, and awnings. Leave it to the young to make box living an adventure. The Nelsons had challenged the group to wear hand-painted “homelessness” message T-shirts to incite meaningful conversations at school and work. At the evening’s intro, Pastor Mike (a.k.a “pMike”), invited those young people to explain their T-messages. Next, Peggy asked everyone to trade their canned dinner to Operation Compassion, the church’s food bank, for 3 bread slices and some peanut butter and jelly. Beverages were iceless water or lemonade. At her word ”Go,” campers dashed to the chow line. Afterwards, attendees gathered on the grass to hear real life from
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real people, moderated by Joy Winter, a recent Southeastern University graduate and PCCoG Soul’d Out leader. Using her psychology degree, she hopes now to help others. Her friend Brian Seeley has been impressed by the loyalty and generosity of the homeless in Lakeland who have befriended him. Now he lives in a tent, homeless by choice, in the “Chinese Jungle” area. Brian said, “When I compare myself to their giving natures, I feel very selfish.” In “Choo Choo Park,” Brian met Dwayne, 33, who’s lived sans-address since age 8 because of homefront disagreements. Needless to say, life was difficult. Trouble, juvenile detention and substance abuse dominated his old life. Recently, Dwayne was baptized at Abundant Life Church in Lakeland, where he now works doing maintenance, cooking, and lawn care. He’s thankful God’s grace expressed through caring people is allowing him to build a new life. Tony met Dwayne at the park when he began helping Brian with Friday night grill-outs. Tony worked at TriCounty Services facilitating for those in need – locating work, shelter, food, or medical treatment. His work is especially meaningful because five years ago, when he was the jobless caretaker of his newborn son, fire destroyed his home. Suddenly he needed that same help. Now, because others helped in practical ways during that time, he will soon be a first time homebuyer. After several songs led by guitarists Noah Herrin and Caleb
Winter and an exuberant game of Capture the Flag, two others shared. Dolores Stropagel, once homeless and hungry, directs the Operation Compassion food bank where volunteers distribute food twice weekly to hungry families. She dreams of a shelter built here in Plant City. Bob, also recently homeless, has just begun a new job and is hopeful
for a permanent home. In summary, the cardboard campers learned: “Treasure family that matters more than you can imagine by doing your part to help with whatever you’re asked. When someone is in need, do something or ask an adult to offer practical help. Show God’s love and share His word. Ultimately, He works through you, usually in one-on-one interaction.” At midnight, as parking lot lights dimmed and cardboard city quieted, campers settled, but few slept more than hour. Challenging thoughts from lessons learned – this group desires to be difference makers.
Cardboard City participants were challenged to wear their T-shirts with a message to raise awareness of the homelessness issue. Photos by Cheryl Johnston
Soul’d Out Youth Pastor Mike Nelson challenged the ministry’s teens to create awareness by wearing their message T-shirts to school and work. Photos by Cheryl Johnston
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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A Desire to be “Loud, Proud and Visible”
Plant City Resident in line for National Office by B r i a n W e s t
Life long resident, Mike Smith, has been a member of the Plant City Elks Lodge 1727 for 34 years. His parents were members and he can remember going with them for some of the social events of the lodge. Smith said, “I think I’ve grown up in the Elks Lodge since I was a child. I remember going down town to a location next to the State Theatre. All the kids would be upstairs in a loft eating hamburgers and playing checkers, while our parents were downstairs having steak dinners.” He’s progressed though the offices of Lodge President, District Vice President, District Deputy, Vice President Elect and President of the State of Florida, providing leadership to more than 68,000 members. From there Smith held positions on the Grand Lodge Committee for Lodge Activities, Grand Lecturing Knight. For the last 4 years, Smith has served on the Board of Grand Trustees (the governing body of the Elks), and is currently the Board Chairman. His next opportunity will present itself on July 5th when he’ll be nominated for the role of 36
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National President for the Elks Lodge. Barring some unforeseen circumstance, the motion should be seconded, and then Smith will be sworn in as National President on July 10th during the National Convention in Orlando. As the National President, Smith will be responsible for leading more than 1,000,000 Elks across the nation, which will require quite a bit of traveling. He’ll be in office from July 2010 – June 2011. Smith said, “We’ll travel to all but 3 states.” which is quite an accomplishment in one year. The Elks Lodge was founded in 1868. It is a fraternal order and social club with a charitable purpose. The Elks are involved in many different charities, everything from college scholarships – of which they gave more than $365,000,000 this year, providing services to the Veteran’s Administration Hospital and youth camps in Ocala that will service more than 22,000 children, just to name a few. Smith believes his biggest challenge for his Presidency will be to work to increase membership and make the Elks “Loud, Proud and Visible.” Service club
Life long Plant City resident, Mike Smith. Photo courtesy of Mike Smith
membership has been on the decline for many years, not just with the Elks. Smith said, “We live in a very busy society. I think of our grandchildren and it seems like they have something [going on] every hour. So it’s hard to draw new members into a service organization. But it’s something we’re going to work on.” Smith also recognizes that although the Elks have been involved in charitable work and doing great things
in their communities for decades, they’re sometimes a mystery to others. This is where Smith’s desire to make the Elks “Loud, Proud and Visible” comes from. Smith said, “I want to focus on launching community programs for all lodges. They don’t have to be the same programs, but something that gets them out in the public eye, the visibility to share things with the masses. Best of luck in your new role, and enjoy every moment.
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Lincoln Elementary graduates first International Baccalaureate World Students by K e l l e i g h K l e i n Two and a half years ago, Principal Susan Raburn was given the task of transforming Lincoln Elementary Magnet School of Technology to an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme World School. The task assigned was great, but the reward would be even greater. The mission of an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme World School is to provide a high quality international education for students in Hillsborough County. In order for this mission to be accomplished, Mrs. Raburn first had to create the team who would be willing to stay the course and work many above and beyond hours to achieve success. First, all of the teaching staff at Lincoln were invited to stay on board to be a part of this transformation. Teachers were asked to sign a contract to show their dedication to the ideals of the International Baccalaureate program which includes interacting and training with educators worldwide. To join the teachers who made this commitment, Mrs. Raburn began hiring additional teachers who would fit the teaching profile to reflect the innovative thinking and ideals of International Baccalaureate education. In addition, parents and students play a critical role in the success of learning. The International Baccalaureate Organization aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. The learner profile consists of ideals the instructors/teachers work with students to develop. Student learner outcomes include being balanced, caring, communicators, inquirers, knowledgeable, open-minded, principled, reflective, risk-takers, and thinkers. According to Raburn, “IB is inquiry based learning. It is a way of thinking. Results of the program are students who
are deeper thinkers, problem solvers and community service focused. They become global thinkers. “ In March, 2010, the hard work and transformation paid off. Lincoln Elementary Magnet School of International Studies became an International Baccalaureate World School. “We are so pleased that the hard work of our students and staff is being recognized,” said Raburn. “The students, parents, and educators at our school show true commitment to learning and reflect the qualities of international mindedness. We are fortunate to have a magnet school of this caliber in our area of the county.” On Tuesday, June 8th, fifth graders at Lincoln celebrated not only their graduation from fifth grade, but also the first class at Lincoln to graduate with International Baccalaureate recognition. The celebration included a year end video presentation, awards, slime pool fun and words of wisdom and encouragement from not only Principal Raburn, but also Mayor Rick Lott, Middle School Principals Susan Sullivan (Tomlin Middle School) and Dapne Blanton (Marshal Middle School). Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Court Members Dayla Dementry, Tylynn Eben and Rachel Hallman were on hand for photos and encouraging words for the graduates. School parents Renita Boles and Linda Walker, assisted by Cynthia Doyle, PYP coordinator, coordinated the fifth grade celebration. All three have been involved with the school’s transformation. In fact, both Boles and Walker relocated their students from another school to be able offer their children the opportunity to be a part of the International Baccalaureate learning opportunity. Walker’s daughter Emily, a graduating Lincoln fifth grader said, “There are not many official IB World schools to graduate from. That makes today even a bigger deal.”
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Fifth grade students gathered for graduation ceremonies and fun.. Photo by Kelleigh Klein
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local focus
Caribbean Wishes and Scholarship Dreams Plant City Chamber of Commerce holds its 8th Annual Margarita Ball by B r i a n W e s t
Saturday, May 16th 2009, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held their annual Margarita Ball. The ball is a fundraiser for the Plant City Chamber and allows them to provide college scholarships to local students. Margarita Ball Committee Chairman, Doug Gibbs said, “It’s always a fun event for the Chamber. You just can’t say enough about a relaxing evening surrounded with friends, and the casual dress is always more comfortable for everyone.” It’s a great way to raise money and the Margarita Ball is clearly a favored Chamber event. Once again, gracious hosts, Mayor Rick Lott and his wife Di, opened their Walden Lake home for the ball. Guests wore their Caribbean casual attire and gathered beneath the large pool-side pavilion – which is perfect for this type of event, and spent the evening relaxing with friends. The ball was held on the Lott’s Tennis courts, until the addition of the pavilion just a few years ago. Tickets for the event sold for $100. As the guests arrived, they were treated to valet parking, margaritas, casino games and hors d’oeuvres, a 50/50 drawing, a live auction and a Frisbee contest with cash prizes for first, second and third place winners. A tent located adjacent to the pavilion served as a seating area for the Caribbeanstyle buffet meal, courtesy of 911 Catering from South Florida Baptist Hospital, and live entertainment from the band Crystal Blue. Following dinner, guests gather around the pavilion for the live
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auction. Once again, Billy Herold played the role of Auctioneer while Gibbs and Billy Keel helped to encourage bids from the crowd. Some of the items auctioned off included autographed memorabilia, dinner to various restaurants, weekend vacations, and even a limo and tickets for 4 to see the Blue Man Group in Orlando. The committee works very hard to come up with auction items that are unique, and the tickets to see the Blue Man Group fetched good money. When the auction was finished, guests moved to an adjacent field for a new event this year, the Frisbee Flip. Contestants paid $25 for 3 attempts to throw a Frisbee into a small kiddy pool a few yards away. It was entertaining. Its amazing how something that looks so simple, can be such a challenge. With just a couple of hours left, the rest of the evening was spent gathered under the pavilion. It’s amazing how quickly 5 hours can go by when you’re having fun. As I’ve mentioned before, the location for the event is perfect. The Lott’s home is made for entertaining, and this type of event is no exception. Thanks so much to the Lott’s and the Plant City Chamber for putting on such a great event. The ball is always fun for everyone, and the money raised will provide college scholarships to some very deserving local students. The anticipation has already begun, so now the Margarita Ball committee will begin discussions and planning for next year. We’re looking forward to it.
Rick & Di Lott. Photo courtesy of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce
Guests enjoy Casino Night at the event. Photo courtesy of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce
Tina & Gary Pike Photo courtesy of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce
King Nominees - Dave Davenport, Brian West, Charles Harris & Billy Keel Photo courtesy of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce
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Location: 1309 South Collins St. Suite 3, Plant City 33566 By Brooklyn Bridge Deli and in front of “Save A Lot” store foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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local focus
Dr. Charles Hollowell Honored for 40 Years in Ministry at Victory Baptist Church by C h e r y l J o h n s to n
Plant City has a longstanding tradition of recognizing its deserving citizens. Mayor Rick Lott joined an exuberant celebration at Victory Baptist Church on May 23rd to honor Dr. Charles Lee Hollowell, the pastor for 40 years of the congregation on South Baptist Church Road. Raul Ventura, pastor of VBC’s Spanish-speaking congregation at Iglesia Bautista Victoria, welcomed all with prayer. He laughingly recalled “Pastor Hollowell prayed for a Spanish-speaking pastor to join forces with him. “Instead,” Ventura said, “God sent a Mexican who needed a Savior.” From the time he accepted Hollowell’s invitation to follow Christ, Ventura credits his pastor for helping him move forward into ministry. After the congregation sang, “Victory in Jesus,” Mayor Lott acknowledged he could “definitely feel God here today,” and explained, “Our city’s mystique comes because we are a godly town.” He identified Hollowell as “a man most deserving of this proclamation commemorating 40 years of service through Bible colleges, pastoral care, missions work, food distribution, prison ministry, mentoring, golf, and Gator football.” Hollowell and his wife of 49 years, Beverly, are delighted their 4 children, 10 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren are church members, so they can interact together in ministry, too. From the choir’s first song, “Old Time Preacher Man” to the tight harmony tribute by son John, daughter Kim Clemons, and her daughter Deanna Garner, it was apparent Hollowell is much loved. A video slideshow
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prepared by the siblings (Kim, John, Sandy Williams, and their adopted sister, Melody Deese) chronicled the life of a man who smiles often, adores children, honors his wife, and treasures God’s truth in the King James Version of the Bible. Many call him “friend.” In the filled-to-capacity service, most shared examples of Hollowell’s help, mentoring, or ministry. Some drove long distances to express appreciation and everyone enjoyed the singing “Duncan Family” from First Freewill Baptist in Seffner. Unique gifts were part of the fun. James Garner presented a framed original Lakeland Ledger published sermon (May 1970) from Hollowell’s Florida Baptist College (now Emmaus Bible College) graduation. The college president, Dr. Ray McAlister, also presented a Certificate of Commendation to recognize a faithful alumnus. A giant $35 paycheck replicating the pastor’s first ever from VBC was given by Wallace Cannon, the deacon who had presented the original in 1970. Cannon said he was “proud to present a much bigger check on week #2080.” Before he preached, Pastor Carl Wells of Willow Oak Baptist in Mulberry offered 1970 news bytes for a 40-years-ago perspective: Nixon presided, Apollo 13 launched, and movie ratings changed to describe content fit or not for children. He recalled his first encounter with the two-piece suited, cowboy-booted Hollowell. Wells used Philippians 1 to remind VBC members God had blessed them: “Chuck Hollowell,” he said, “carries this church family on his mind and in his heart and prayers.” Wells praised him for consistency, right
Pastor Charles Hollowell and his wife of 49 years, Beverly, cherish their special memories spanning 40 years at Victory Baptist Church. Photo courtesy of Rebecca Juliano Photography
Charles and Beverly Hollowell are surrounded by 25 of their nicest, most purposed family members. Photo courtesy of Rebecca Juliano Photography
motives, and the resulting strong faith of the Victory congregation. Perhaps the most special treat of this Hollowell milestone day was when grandson, Jordon Williams, 18, bowed to invite Christ into his heart. Another teenager, Patricia Perez, described “the very big impact through Bible teaching” Hollowell has had on her life, saying, “He
makes the words easier to understand. He’s amazing.” Lunch, more reminiscing, and the infectious joy of the Lord continued at Plant City Community Church of the Nazarene. We can all give thanks that because God has so firmly planted the Hollowell family here, our entire community is richer in the things money can’t buy.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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local DID YOU KNOW?
Wing-walker, plumber, fireman, manager Plant City’s t.j. McCall was a man of many talents 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 & H i s t o r y C e n t e r Previously we wrote about Mike E. Sansone, after whom one of the City’s recreational parks is named, who was a WWI and WWII veteran, and who dedicated himself to programs for the community through his work with the American Legion, and to the community’s youth through service with the Boy Scouts of America. This story is about another impressive man, Theodore Jeffers McCall, who served as Plant City’s City Manager for nearly 27 years, from January 1941 to December 1967. Born in Ocilla, Georgia, (in Irwin County, about 20 miles northeast of Tifton), October 20, 1905, Theodore Jeffers McCall is the son of Clifford Riley McCall and Maud Jeffers McCall. Clifford was a blacksmith, and in 1913 moved his family to Plant City and established what was to be the last blacksmith shop in Plant City; it was located on Pennsylvania Avenue between Baker and Reynolds Streets. According to the Bruton and Bailey book on the history of Plant City, Clifford Riley McCall would ride his bicycle to the Methodist Church on Reynolds Street with daughter Mamie on the crossbar and his small son seated behind. They rode from the Sanders farm on Alexander Street, where they lived, east on Haines Street to the church. Theodore McCall attended local schools, graduating from Plant City High School about 1923. Some of his friends knew him as “Theo”, some called him “Mac”, while others simply knew him as “T.J.” After high school, young Theo left Plant City to work in Texas and also worked as a plumber with his uncle in Miami. Returning to Plant City in 1926 he signed on with the Fire Department as a “fire laddie”, a colloquial reference to the brave young volunteer firemen from the early years. It was about this time that Theo became interested in aviation and began flying with his friend Clarence MacArthur, (also spelled McArthur), using the old “air strip”, (actually a pasture), off Coronet Road. By early 1929, McCall had left the fire department to go “barnstorming”. He and MacArthur purchased a World War I Curtiss JN-4 “Jenny”, a two-seat dual-control biplane capable of aerobatic maneuvers and could attain a top speed of 75 miles per hour. McCall and MacArthur drew crowds to the Coronet airstrip, and MacArthur would charge from $1 to $2.50
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per person for a “ joy” ride on the Jenny. Once a crowd was gathered, Theo McCall became the star of the show. After reaching altitude, he would climb out of his seat and crawl out on a wing. He would then stand and ease farther out on the wing – a real wing-walker – and after working up the spectators below, he would grasp a packed parachute attached to the underside of the wing. Slipping on the straps of the parachute, McCall would then jump, pulling the cord and gliding to the ground – with a stream of household white flour following him for effect. It was exhilarating. The people gasped, then applauded with excitement. For each jump McCall would collect no less than $25. McCall and MacArthur became quite a draw and took their show on the road, traveling to north Florida and into Georgia, with crowd pleasing joy rides, wing-walking, and parachute jumps. With the economic collapse of late 1929, McCall and MacArthur decided to end their barnstorming, and Theo McCall returned to Plant City. He joined the Police Department as a motorcycle policeman. He reconnected to many old friends, including school mate Odessa Geer, older sister to Quintilla Geer. Quintilla Geer married classmate James Bruton in 1932, and Odessa Geer and Theo McCall were married in 1933. McCall’s professional career with the city continued to consume him. He was appointed superintendant of the streets department and later superintendant of the combined sanitation department and jail. In 1939 he was appointed Chief of Police. During this time he was also an active member of the Olin Wright Masonic Lodge, then located on Evers Street at Mahoney, just behind the City Hall, and he was also a member of the Egypt Temple (Shriners). He and Odessa had two sons – James Clifford McCall born in late 1934, and Charles Raymond McCall born in 1937. The City of Plant City at that time did not have City Manager-Commission form of government, and a city commissioner functioned as city manager with no additional compensation. In 1939 Alvin Hinson held this position and McCall was appointed to serve as Hinson’s assistant. By January 1941 this changed and the city commission appointed Theodore Jeffers McCall to the full-time post of City Manager. The city budget was approximately $150,000, and the population was just under 5,000.
Theo McCall daredevil 1929 At that time the City Hall was at the corner of Collins and Mahoney and housed almost all of the municipal services – including police and fire departments, and housed a court room on the second floor. There was a separate “lockup” and a small water department. Theo McCall was dedicated to his work for the city and its people; he knew the workings of every department and thought nothing of working side-by-side with other city employees – whether in a ditch or at a desk. He was a hands-on guy. You would see him everywhere, with his signature straw hat, and usually a coat and tie. His schedule was full and city staff and city residents knew they could call him at any time – and they did. McCall worked for nearly 27 years as City Manager, retiring in December 1967. During that time the city grew from a population of about 5,000 to 17,000, it doubled in square miles, constructed more than 60 miles of paved streets, and100 miles of sidewalks. The city saw growth with numerous buildings and businesses, with the formation of the Industrial Expansion Committee of 100, organized to bring in light industry; they also solicited the Hillsborough Aviation Authority for land for an industrial park, and they began construction of the $1.6 million industrial waste-treatment plant. McCall also drew the floor plans for the new City Hall at
Wheeler and Mahoney, and the floor plans for the two new recreation centers, which are now the Planteen and the MLK Rec Center. In 1954 the Jaycees presented McCall with their Good Government Award, only the second they had presented. He has received recognition for his years of service from the International City Managers Association and the Florida City Managers Association. The Suncoast Girl Scout Council honored McCall for his assistance in securing their permanent location at Mike Sansone Park. In November 1967, at the announcement of his retirement plans, the Plant City Courier editorial said this of Mac McCall: “McCall stood by ready to help. He is that kind of man – kind, considerate, helpful, fair, and just. Above all he toiled, worked, and planned for the good of Plant City.” On June 2, 1971, the city commission dedicated a park in the middle of the downtown business district to “Mr. Plant City”. McCall Park was expanded, made over and rededicated in 1998. It is the center of much of the downtown activities in Plant City. Theodore Jeffers McCall left this life on June 20, 1980, and is buried at Oaklawn Cemetery in his beloved Plant City. Odessa Geer McCall, June 8, 1906 – April 15, 1990, rests adjacent to Theodore.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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local CHAMBER COLUMN
Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce by B r uc e R o d w e l l Once again Plant City’s own United Food Bank is in the news. Thanks to the mail carriers food drive which took place May 8 th. a total of more than 23,000 pounds of food was collected. Kelleigh Klein, Executive Director of the Food Bank wanted me to express her sincere appreciation and thanks to all the area residents that donated to this very worthwhile cause. Ms. Klein stated “Thanks to your donations, we are making a difference, especially through our Children’s Nutrition Outreach Program. This vital program makes sure that children have breakfast and lunch groceries when school meals are not available”. Here are some startling statistics. In 2008, the Children’s Nutrition Outreach program helped 2,100 kids with 36,000 pounds for food. In 2009, the Food Bank served 5,200 kids and provided 90,000 pounds of food. Ms. Klein anticipates the need in 2010 will be even greater. On May 19 th. Sister’s & Company, a specialty retailer in downtown Plant City announced that it presented a $10,000 donation to United Food Bank of Plant City as part of Brighton’s Feed our Friends fundraiser program. Sister’s & Company was among retailers across the United States that joined with Brighton last summer in selling a limited-edition collection of semi-precious jewelry designed especially to help feed struggling Americans. Devony Scott of Sister’s & Company stated “When we heard that there was an opportunity to help feed the hungry, specifically in our area we were so excited, we hold the Food Bank close to our hearts. Never could we have imagined that our nomination would so greatly benefit our community, this is such a blessing”. Hats off and kudos to Sister’s & Company, a Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce member for helping our United Food Bank. ********** Marion Smith, President of our Chamber wanted me to thank each of you that attended the Plant City Community Expo on May 6 th. and also those of you that attended the Annual Margarita Ball on May 15 th. Both of these events were a tremendous success. ********** Chamber member, Toufayan Bakery of Plant City is adding 83,000 square feet of space to its 120,000 square-foot factory. The first phase of construction will be completed this month, with the second phase scheduled for completion in November. The expansion includes a new production line and warehouse space. The plant now has 160 full-time employees, but that number may increase when construction is completed. Toufayan was founded in 1926 and has been operating in Plant City since 2006. On May 14 th. a group of Plant City folks joined Rotary District 6890 on a cruise to the Bahamas. Rotarians making the trip were Doug & Heather Updike, David & Emma
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Miller, George & Penny Bragg, Jimmy & Anne Carapezza, Keith & Jane Smith, Ben & Mary Kay Cook and George Banning. Joining in on the fun were the following friends of the Rotarians: Rich & Judy Glorioso, Howard & Emma Rawlings, Jim & Linda Chancey, Bruce & Margaret Rodwell, Bruno & Susan Kazenas, Gene & Debbie Szarowicz and Veronica Prostko. Shortly after the group boarded the ship at Port Canaveral the shuttle Atlantis lifted off on its last mission. The group stood in awe as they watched the space ship zoom into the beautiful daytime sky. One of the highlights of the trip was having lunch at the Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant. This is a five-star restaurant located in Nassau. The Plant City group enjoyed a spectacular lunch followed by a tour of their wine cellar. This was truly a wonderful experience. The cellar houses over 275,000 bottles of wine with over 4000 selections from 15 countries. ********** Did you know the Bruton Memorial Library is celebrating 50 years of Public Library in Plant City? Its true! In July the Library will be featuring Wet and Wild Programs for Grownups. On Thursday, July 1st. at 6:30 PM the film JAWS will be shown. See the big shark on the big screen. Can you believe this film is 35 years old? Is it safe to go back in the water? Friday, July 2nd. at 2 PM a program by Lynn Barber, Master Gardner with the Hillsborough County Extension Service will show you how to set up a rain barrel and use the chemical free water to irrigate your landscape. You will also receive a certificate for a free rain barrel. How about a good book discussion? On Tuesday, July 13 th. at 11 AM the book discussion centers around the Tom Dorsey novel “Gator A-Go-Go”. And on Thursday, July 22 nd. Tim Dorsey will appear in person to share some pretty wild stories. For more information, call the Library at 813-757-9215. ********** The long-awaited dedication of the Plant City Veterans Memorial Monment is set to take place on Thursday, July 1 st. at Courier Field which is just North of downtown on Wheeler Street. The dedication will be from 2 to 4 PM. Marsha Passmore heads up the dedication committee. Other committee members are Sandee Systma, Judy Martin, Dodie White and Marion Smith.
Ribbon Cuttings
You will not want to miss this wonderful addition to our Plant City community. ********* There are lots of things going on in Plant City. Here are some dates for your calendars: Saturday, June 19 - Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City. A great family fun event. Starts at 4 PM. Saturday, June 19 - Juneteenth Culture Fest 2010 at Sam Cooper Lake Park, 912 East Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. This event goes on from 10 AM to 8 PM. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. For more information call Dee Sears at 863-808-8926 or Sharon Moody at 813-453-7134. Saturday, June 19 - Verizon Wireless Family Fun Days at their store, 2909 James L. Redman Parkway. Call Cathi Bell at 813-764-8202 for more information. Sunday, June 20 - FATHER’S DAY. All father’s will be admitted free to Dinosaur World. Saturday, June 26 - Pregnancy Care Center Tea of Significance at Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin Road. Gets underway at 11 AM. For more information call the Center at 813-759-0886. Wednesday, June 30 - Free Safe Baby Sitter Course at The Network, 639 East Alexander Street, Plant City. You must be at least 11 years old to take this course. This teaches you how to be a successful babysitter. Call 813-870-4747 to sign up and for additional details. Saturday, July 3 - Bike Fest in downtown Plant City. Come and look over all the motorcycles. Starts at 5 PM. On July 16 & 17 Plant City Entertainment will present the play BOYFRIEND at 8 PM. This will take place in their new location, 101 North Thomas Street. There will also be a matinee at 2 PM on Sunday, July 18. Saturday, July 17 - Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City. Starts at 4 PM. REMEMBER TO SUPPORT YOUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS
H. Charles Locksmith Howard Smith, Owner P. O. Box 5401 (813) 777-7885 tumblerkidd@msn.com
Watson Clinic Pat Holste, Site Manager 615 East Alexander Street (Alexander Crossing) (813) 719-2500 www.watsonclinic.com
Cycle Stop USA, Inc. Jason Hallman, President/C.O.O. 2303 James L. Redman Parkway, Suite H (813) 754-2959 www.cyclestopusa.com info@cyclestopusa.com
Artist In You Anissa Hunt, Owner (813) 704-5957 116 West Reynolds Street hunt1700@wildblue.net
Specialized Labor Services Angelo Murray, Director of Operations (813) 754-4664 712 East Alsobrook Street, Suite 3 specializedlaborservices@verizon.net www.specializedlaborservices.com
AAMCO Transmissions, Inc. Robert Sanchez, Owner (813) 752-2565 2908 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL rob.aamco@me.com www.aamco.com/plantcity
LOOK FOR THE SIGN MEMBER GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Allstate Insurance Company Mark Cornett, Agency Owner (813) 754-2277 1701 South Alexander Street, Suite 104 a057460@allstate.com
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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History
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Plant City has always been very patriotic, supporting all branches of the Armed Forces with its sons and daughters. The citizens come together on Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day to honor and pay tribute to all our military men and women who have fought for our country. The American Legion Norman McLeod Post No. 26 organizes and puts together this very moving tribute each year, area businesses and civic groups support the Memorial Day Event with floral presentations. It was the beginning of an idea. Five years ago the idea was born when the Plant City Photo Archives, Inc., hosted a WW II Veterans’ Tribute event …. Several veterans in attendance remarked that there was no veterans’ memorial in Plant City. Many Plant City residents have served in the military past and present; therefore, Plant City should have a Veterans’ Memorial so that its citizens can recognize and honor all the men and women who have served in all five branches … not just on Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day but every day. As the sentiment took root and spread, The Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation was formed to develop the idea into reality. This committee of 26 was composed of all manner of individuals from city officials to business owners to retirees and active and retired military personnel, all active in helping Plant City and its citizens. Retired businessman and Naval Officer Mac Smith was elected President of the Veterans’ Memorials Foundation, and Jennifer Closshey was chosen as Chairwoman. The City suggested a passive park at Courier Field on Wheeler Street. The mission of the Foundation was to create a memorial and tribute to the men and women that served, fought and died. The Plant City Monujune 2010 thefocusmagazine.com
ment will be surrounded by a beautifully landscaped park with live oaks, magnolia trees and with Florida-friendly plants. Plans were to include a gazebo, flag pole, benches, and a reading area. This endeavor is to honor all military veterans of all wars and peace times past, present, and future. Working in partnership with the City of Plant City, a very excited committee began laying the groundwork based on the idea of a passive park: what components should be included? How should it look? What plants and trees should be planted? A gazebo was planned, a flag pole, benches, walkways and, of course, a monument. It was decided that the gathering area should include bricks that can be engraved to honor our military men and women. The engraved bricks are available for purchase and will be installed on an ongoing basis. Many of the engraved bricks have already been installed. Members of the Plant City Garden Club were invited to join the committee and helped to design the gardens, walkways, and make recommendations on trees and plants. A red, white, and blue color scheme was planned, with something blooming throughout the year. Finally, a rough sketch was drawn, with BCI engineers taking it to a more formal, detailed drawing. A lot of work went into designing everything to withstand Florida’s hurricanes. Robert Showalter of Showalter Construction won the bid for the construction of the various components. Fundraising began with Barbeque dinners sold and an elegant “dining out” dinner. Businesses and families sponsored various components of the
Continued on page 59
Continued from page 58
WHEREAS, as Mayor of the City of Plant City and on behalf of the City Commission, I have the honor of recognizing Jennifer Closshey, Chairperson for the Veterans’ Memorial Committee, committee members, citizens, and officials of the City who are gathered here today on this site for the official groundbreaking of the Veterans’ Memorial at Courier Field in honor and memory of American veterans from all military branches of the Armed Force; and WHEREAS, this is a public and private project with the City of Plant City providing assistance in the construction of the improvements for the Veterans’ Memorial at Courier Field. The City of Plant City is proud to be of assistance to the committee in helping to bring the Veterans’ Memorial to reality. The committee is deserving of recognition for their leadership and vision in planning and raising needed funds for this historical Veterans’ Memorial at Courier Field; and WHEREAS, the focus of interest of the Veterans’ Memorial at Courier Field will be an 8-foot-tall bronze statue of an American bald eagle with outstretched wings clutching an American Flag in its talons. This artistic design titled “Freedom Rising” with caption reading “With the American Flag clutched in its talons, freedom will always rise above adversity” will sit atop a 6-foot high granite pedestal to honor all who proudly served in the United States military during both war and peacetime. It will provide visitors with a solemn place to reflect and is a monument for healing; and WHEREAS, the memorial will be a living memorial and will speak to all people that freedom is not free; that there is a cost for war when the Military is placed in armed conflict. It will serve the citizens of our community as a symbol of speach, and the extent with which we will go to make sure peace is secured for our families; and WHEREAS, America will always remember these heroes, and the City of Plant City’s Veterans’ Memorial at courier Field is a testament to the grassroots effort of this Veterans’ Memorial committee and the people of our community who have taken an idea to the artistic creation of “Freedom Rising.” This is a historic occasion today as we break ground in remembrance of more than 25-million living American veterans of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, many of whom put their lives on the line to reserve our freedoms; and WHEREAS, the citizenry of Plant City will be forever indebted to the veterans of our community for their courage and exemplary service. By this Veterans’ Memorial at Courier Field, we remember and respect those who laid down their lives for freedom’s defense. These brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice for our benefit. NOW, THEREFORE, I, RICK A. LOTT, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Plant City, Florida, do hereby recognize the VETERANS’ MEMORIAL AT COURIER FIELD As a living legacy for not only men and women who have paid with their life, but to the living veterans who honorably served this nation as well as our present day military who are serving worldwide. This Veterans’ Memorial at Courier Field with its monument, gardens, walkways and public gathering area will give Plant City residents a place to come together in honor of our veterans and confer high public esteem for our active members of the military.
park. Starting the sponsorship efforts was Mac Smith and his family when they sponsored the gazebo. The Verner Foundation, Inc. sponsored the flagpole, and Southwest Florida Water Management donated the large grouping of rocks for the gardens. It wasn’t just money that was donated; many hours of work and donated materials went into making the Veterans’ Monument a reality. Many of the plants and trees were donated, and they were planted by volunteers from the Garden Club, Plant City High School students, Plant City Parks and Recreation Division, and members of the community who just wanted to help. It didn’t stop there as many volunteer hours and dollars were given freely in all aspects of the planning and execution in bringing the monument and park from an idea to reality. As the project grew in scope, the committee recognized the need for specialized services in handling the associated financial and legal aspects. Drawing from community resources, Joe Sedita, of the firm Sedita Kilton, C.P.A., P.L, serves as treasurer, providing accounting services including IRS reporting and conformance for the Foundation. Legal services are generously provided by Danny Coton and James Davis, attorneys with Trinkle Redman Swanson Coton Davis & Smith PA. With the basics in place, an artist was needed to create the monument. So a massive mailing of letters and emails requesting artists’ concepts went out to artists all over the country from California to New York. Thirty-five submissions were received for the committee’s consideration. From those thirty-five, twelve concepts were chosen for further consideration. A second round of reviews narrowed it down to five. Out of the final five, the submission by artist Duane Scott of Sarasota, was chosen. Scott’s concept is a solid bronze statue of an American Bald Eagle, powerful wings spread as he rises clutching the American flag in his talons. Aptly named “Freedom Rising,” the statue will sit atop a six- sided black granite base. Five bronze medallions, each representing a branch of the armed forces, adorn the base. The Veterans’ Monument at Courier Field is the only monument in East Hillsborough County honoring our men and women who have served and continue to serve in all branches of the military. And thanks to the Board of City Commissioners who provided the insight and paved the way, this marvelous park serves as an enhanced gateway honoring all veterans and citizens of our beautiful City. foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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JUNE 18
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.
JUNE 20 FATHER’S DAY BRUNCH
It’s a feast for Dad and the family in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room! Prime Rib, Turkey/w Stuffing, Seafood, Salads, Potatoes, Fruit, Desserts and much more! Music by Destiny. Hours: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call and make your reservations now.
JUNE 26 RALPH ALLOCCO
& SECOND WIND
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
JULY 2 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE
A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.
JULY 3 & 9 RALPH ALLOCCO
& SECOND WIND
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
JULY 10 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE
A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.
JULY 16 COVER TO COVER
The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show
JULY 17 & 23 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
JULY 24
AUGUST 21
LOLA & THE SAINTS
THE CONTOURS
Doo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday – “Forever in Love,” Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.”
The Red Rose Ballroom will rock-out on this night when The Contours take the stage! Their #1 Hit “Do You Love Me” was featured in the hit film “Dirty Dancing” with Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will perform before and after The Contours. It’s a ‘don’t miss event’ for all Motown music lovers! Reserve your space early, this show will sell quickly!
PLUS P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS
JULY 30 RICHIE
MERRITT
Richie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds.
JULY 31
RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
AUGUST 6 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE
A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.
AUGUST 7 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
AUGUST 13 COVER TO COVER
The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show
AUGUST 14
JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE
A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.
FEATURING SYLVESTER POTTS
AUGUST 28 & SEPTEMBER 3 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
WIND
SEPTEMBER 4
P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS, WITH COVER TO COVER AND KEN BRADY
P. J. Leary & the Las Vegas Sounds, also featuring special guests, Cover to Cover and Ken Brady (Lead Singer of The Casinos), featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.
SHOW RESERVATIONS Please call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper club atmosphere with a four course meal (seats also available for the show only – for a lower price!) NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room with the purchase of dinner. Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates when staying overnight after a show!
SINGLES’ NIGHT Can’t wait for the weekend?
Every THURSDAY night in the Polo Club Lounge is an opportunity to gather with old friends or – make new ones! For your dancing pleasure Destiny will perform. The fun starts at 5:30 p.m.
AUGUST 21 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
TEL: 813.752.3141
I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563
WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM
Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General Manager foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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BCI ENGINEERS & SCIENTISTS
CORINNE C. FUTCH
HOPEWELL FUNERAL HOME
GEORGE AND CASSANDRA BANNING
GILBERT V. GOTT
RACHEL BURGIN
BCI Engineers & Scientists is proud to be a part of the creation of the Veterans’ Monument Park to recognize and thank those who unselfishly serve our great nation to ensure our continued freedom. God Bless America! Contact David Butcher PE LEEP AP at 863-667-2345 or www.bcieng.com
Hopewell Funeral Home & memorial Gardens would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Veterans who have served our country both here and abroad to promote peace and freedom for all Americans. A special heartfelt thanks to our staff-Gerald Beaty, Dan Druen, Ralph Shope, and Jim Watson. Thank you, Marsha Passmore. In memory of Edwin J. “Ned” Gott,T/Sgt. US Army Air Corps, 8th Air Force,392nd Bomb Group, 579th Squadron,B-24H Liberators, KIA 3rd Mission,Monday, 4 October 1943, encountered Nazi fighters over the North Sea, remembered on the Wall of the Missing, Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial,Margraten,Netherlands.
MRS. BETTYE GOODWINE
In Memory of Donald Goodwine who served in The United States Army and was a Vietnam Veteran. He was a graduate of Florida A&M University, member of Alpha Phi Alpha and voluntarily served on the Plant City Board of Adjustment. His passion was education, family, fishing, his yard, cooking and the well being of others.
Sponsors
This is a wonderful park and monument that not only honors our military every day but is also a beautiful gateway to our City. It was a privilege to serve on the committee.
Marvin “Fletcher” Burgin, Navy Petty Officer, radioman, USS Sumter WWII, his 1946 Plant City visit impressed him, returning in 1983 to open M.F. Burgin Produce. Known for his beautiful white hair and friendly face. Fletcher and wife Virginia have two children, twelve grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. We love you Pop!
CHARLEENE CLOSSHEY
Charles Closshey enlisted during Vietnam, became a Special Forces soldier, entering Officer Candidate school. More than an American, more than a true Patriot, to me, he’s my Father. A man who models Integrity, Strength, Commitment. If you’ve met him, you’ll never forget him. I love you, Dad.
PRESENTING SPONSORS
Don Stine Construction • Robert Trinkle, Esq. • Capt. Phil & Sandra Waldron Focus Magazine
GOLD SPONSORS
A Total Lawn and Tree Service Inc • George & Cassandra Banning Boone’s Nursery Inc. • Brooks Land Surveying, Inc. BCI Engineers & Scientists • Daniel M. Coton, Esq. Lt. Col. Harrison W. Covington • Culligan Bottled Water James C. Davis, II, Esq. • Florida Tree Source, Inc. • Focus Magazine . Gilbert V. Gott • Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Ideas & Innovations, Inc. • Fred & Tammy Johnson Owen & Heidi Johnson • Eleanore C. McDade Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club • Plant City Garden Club, Inc. Plant City Photo Archives, Inc. • Sedita Kilton & Co., CPA, P.L. Robert & Ashley Showalter • Pat & Darcy Stottlemyer Southwest Florida Water Management District • Sweetbay Supermarket Tampa Electric Company • Tampa Tribune • Taylor Rental Center Walden Lake Art & Frame
B. M. Smith Family • Verner Foundation, Inc. • Charles & Jennifer Closshey Ed & Amanda Verner
The Bailey Family Foundation • George & Cassandra Banning Charleene N. Closshey • Florida Strawberry Festival, Inc. The Roy Parke Family • Plant City Garden Club, Inc. • Maida B. Pou South Florida Baptist Hospital • Michael S. & Diane S. Sparkman Sunshine State Federal Savings • LTC. Don Walden, Jr. and wife, Lois
SILVER SPONSORS
William & Elisa Carr • Hillsboro Bank • Tina & Gary Pike Bobby Raburn & Sally Knight Raburn • The Rotary Club of Plant City Tampa Electric Company • Pat and Darcy Stottlemyer • Blackhawk/1-7 CAV
BRONZE SPONSORS
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In Honor of Chester R. Futch, Sr., Sgt U.S Army 1967-69, 1st of the 5th, 1st Air Cavalry Div., Vietnam War. “ To those who fight for it, Freedom has a taste the protected will never know.”
Arts Council of Plant City, Inc. • Dr. & Mrs. H.D. Brewer • Liz & Shorty Brown Redi-Mix Concrete Landscaping Materials Fabricated Products of Tampa, Inc. • Colonel Rich and Judy Glorioso Mohamad Ali & Sawsan Hasbini Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens • The Dicks Family Foundation Jarrett-Scott Ford • Rick & Diane Lott • Billy & Marsha Passmore Larry & Melanie Padron • Gary & Christina Mallare-Pike Capt. Theodore B. Purvis, Jr. • Hugh C. Robinson, Jr. • Mikie & Dean Snyder june 2010 thefocusmagazine.com
IN-KIND SPONSORS
Committee Cassandra Banning
George Banning
Robyn W. Bryant
Bill Carr
Jennifer Clossshey
Doug Driggers
Rep. Glorioso
Gil Gott
Kelleigh Klein
Rick Lott
Sherrie Mueller
Willie Nabong
Marsha Passmore
Sally Knight Raburn
Joe Sedita
B.M. “Mac” Smith, Jr.
Dean Snyder
David Sollenberger
Not Pictured: Dr. Hal Brewer Liesta Sykes
Darcy Stottlemyer
Ed Verner
Phil Waldron
First Lt. Ira Bryant Kelli Tharrington
James Davis
Dodie White Dear Community Patriot: The men and women who have, for close to two and one-half centuries, served, fought, and died to preserve our freedoms and our way of life have left a proud heritage for us all. Now in tribute to their courage and sacrifices, our community has joined together in Partnership with the City of Plant City to create a place to honor these noble veterans. The dedication of The Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park at Courier Field is a milestone event for our community. The Plant City Armed Forces Memorial Foundation, Inc. In Partnership with The City of Plant City, Florida Invites all Dignitaries, Sponsors, and Patriotic Citizens to the Dedication of The Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park at Courier Field July 1, 2010, at 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. A special feature of the Park is the use of commemorative bricks in the walkways and gathering area. From the citizen soldiers of the Revolutionary War to the modern Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, each person who served made unique sacrifices from which we all benefit. Typically containing the veteran’s name, rank, branch and time of service, these bricks allow the family and/or friends of veterans to say a personal and permanent “thank-you” for their service. Hundreds of commemorative bricks have already been purchased and installed throughout the Park. Order forms may be picked up at the PC Chamber of Commerce, Plant City Photo Archives, and City Hall. Bricks will continue to be available as long as supplies last. Bricks ordered after June 15, 2010, will be installed after the July 1 dedication. We invite you to join in commemorating this community endeavor by honoring a veteran in this special, permanent way. The Park is a partnership between the nonprofit Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation, Inc. and the City of Plant City. All donations and brick proceeds will be used for current construction expenses and to fund future enhancements. Please plan to join us in a community-wide salute to Veterans on July 1 at The Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park … our city’s Permanent Memorial and Tribute to the men and women that served, fought, and died in defense of this great nation we live in. With appreciation,
Jennifer E. Closshey Committee Chair
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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y e v r a H r So m e an ri to ic d le a V 10 0 2 l oo ch S h ig H D u ra nt
S
omer Harvey is Durant High School’s 2010 Valedictorian. At the same time, she has just earned an Associate of Arts degree from Hillsborough Community College. In August, she enters the University of Tampa as a junior to pursue a doctorate for pharmaceutical research. Obviously, Somer loves learning. Academically, she has excelled through seven Florida Virtual School and 13 AP classes, along with 12 Dual Enrollment courses at HCC. She and brother Derek, 21, had a friendly challenge to see who would graduate from HCC first. Having both completed in May, it’s a draw. With a 7.8276 weighted GPA, Harvey is a Tampa Tribune Honors Scholar who received the following scholarships and grants: UT Presidential Scholarship, Phi Theta Kappa Sorority, Florida Resident Access Grant, Florida Strawberry Growers Association, Strawberry Festival Livestock, Hillsborough County Fair Queen, Durant FFA Alumni, MetLife sponsored through the National Future Farmers of America, Plant City Junior Women’s Club, Athena Young Women of Promise, and Bright Futures Florida Academic Scholars. The family appreciates this financial help, since becoming valedictorian does not automatically mean all secondary education expenses are covered. Family is especially important to the 17-year-old Plant City native, which is why she desired to attend college locally. In addition to the value of smaller classes and more professorial attention, most of Somer’s extended family lives within two miles of each other. Her parents, Tony and Missy Harvey and brother Derek are pleased with her decision, as are maternal grandparents, Kenneth and Eloise Leab, and paternal grandparents, Hans and Dianne Harvey. The family enjoys dinners out and Caribbean cruises together, so that won’t have to change much. Sophie, her pet YorkiePoo, is also happy Harvey’s sticking close to home. Because of this wonderful support system, Somer embraces the guiding Scriptural principle for her life: “From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required.” She has attended Springhead Baptist Church all of her life, so lessons about commitment and service to others came early. Those lessons have been reinforced through National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Junior America State Debate, Girl Scouts, FFA and other leadership roles. After recently completing a 65-hour community project, Somer received the Gold Award, the highest offered by GSA. Her project developed “A Walking History Tour of Downtown Plant City” in which she provided free prescheduled or personal tours coordinated by the East Hillsborough Historical Society. Beauty, brains, and personality are part of the Harvey package. She has been recognized in 2010 for the following: Miss Plant City Teen, AgriScience Student of the Year, FSGA Ambassador, Florida State Fair Youth Livestock Ambassador, and Miss Congeniality in the Strawberry Festival Queen contest. One of her 2011 goals is to win the crown. During the Florida State Fair and Strawberry Festival, Harvey participated in the swine show competition. As an FFA officer, she could always count on sponsors Thomas Sturgis, Tim Cribbs, and Charles Combs for help, because “they put in so many hours after school with us” in order to build a winning chapter. In her FFA career, she has served on teams for forestry, livestock, parliamentary procedure, and placed 2nd in the state for extemporaneous speaking. Favorite subjects are math and science. Inspirational educators were Sharyn Gibson and Carol Wetherington for math, Dan McFarland for science, Ryan Haczynski for AP Human Geography, and Craig Shimkus for AP World History. Guidance Specialist Franci Dupre provided critical help with scholarship applications. Her Durant experience has been wonderful, Harvey says, because of “the diversity in class selections and the variety of extracurricular activities, every student can find a place to get involved.” Somer encourages her peers to “really think about what you might enjoy doing for the rest of your life. Don’t be pressured or focused on money. Look to your talents and learn new skills. Find a career that fits you and then do the work required to excel.” Plant City is pleased this hometown girl took advantage of opportunities provided her and pleased she plans to continue her successes here. There’s no place like home to make your mark.
Eri k a K o l a k ow s ki Pl ant City High School 2010 Va ledict oria n
E
rika Rae Kolakowski is a competitor – enjoys the game, loves to win. Always was. Still is. Her parents, Keith and Lisa, cannot remember a time this wasn’t true. The secret to her success is that when her mind is set, she begins to prepare. So, in the sixth grade when she learned at older sister Lauren’s commencement that the top student position had a title – valedictorian - she determined to become one as a 2010 Plant City High School Raider. The 18-year-old Plant City native is a National Merit Finalist and AP Scholar of Distinction for 13 AP classes. Five dual enrollment classes helped her rank 1st among 526 PCHS students with an unweighted 4.0 and weighted 7.32 GPA. Thanks to $150,000 in scholarships, Kolakowski will pursue a Bio-Medical Sciences degree as a Presidential Scholarship recipient and compete in track at Auburn University. As Florida’s 3A Bronze medalist in the 800-meter, she competes nationally in June. Erika led both the track and the cross-country teams as captain during her last two years and is also a Wendy’s High School Heisman Award Winner. Inspiration for this sport, one of her many, came from her mother and older sister Lauren, both competitive runners who help her train. This month, Erika will bicycle the popular 400-mile BRAG (Bike Ride Across Georgia) with her mother, an annual competitor in the strenuous scenic challenge. Lisa describes Erika’s well-deserved success by saying, “Everything has been accomplished through her drive and perseverance. She’s excited about Auburn and I will always be her encourager; now I’ll just have to take some road trips!” Everyone recognizes Erika as a leader. Key among numerous positions she has held are: President of National Honor Society, Girls State Delegate, Speaker of the House, General H. Norman Schwarzkopf Leadership Award Recipient, Civitan Outstanding Youth and Plant City Youth Parade Marshal. Her resume of accomplishments fills two pages. In July, Erika and her father Keith will climb Mt. LeConte, a graduation tradition he established for his three daughters. They will sleep in the lodge with no running water, then enjoy an outlet-shopping spree en route home. Keith describes his youngest in one word: “Driven.” He says, “Her determination amazes me. She has always been ultra competitive. She lives by the motto ‘Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.’ Erika outworks everyone. I just support her efforts and stay out of her way.” Erika names her parents among her heroes along with Nikolai Testa, a genius physicist who worked under Thomas Edison. Several educators also inspired her to go for the gold. Academically, one was Jerome Monette, AP World History teacher, who Erika describes as “passionate for his subject and for kids. He always challenged me to think deeper.” So did Alan Schism, the English teacher for whom she scored a 5 on the AP Language exam. Sherrie Mueller in Guidance encouraged scholarship and writing contest submissions. Track coaches John Ackerman and Brian Brubaker were “incredibly helpful and encouraging.” The list could go on for this grateful young woman. Erika “loved her high school experience” and believes “it doesn’t get any better than PCHS.” Favorite pastimes outside of sports and studies include helping others. Kolakowski earned 75-plus community service hours working for Best Buddies, Key Club, Civinettes, Relay for Life, YMCA Assistant Swim Coach, Special Olympics, Hillsborough River Clean Up, and Hurricane Katrina Relief. Kolakowski says she has” always enjoyed learning new things, especially in science and math” because she “can connect what I’ve learned to the real world.” Successes in the Mu Alpha Theta math club and in Spanish language competitions are direct results. Learning new things includes an active faith in God, which Erika demonstrates through the Evangelical Presbyterian Youth Group and the Youth Alive club at school. Encouragement has been her friend, and Kolakowski would like to pay that gift forward to other students coming behind: “Find friends with similar goals and focus. Do the work – no excuses – and give 110%. Trust your teachers and make good choices. Winners want to hear ‘Well done’! ” foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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180 bed nursing and rehabilitation center Physical, occupational, and speech therapists State-of-the-art 5,000 square foot therapy gym
The Health Center of Plant City 701 N. Wilder rd.
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IMPORTANT HEARING FACTS Hearing is a gift that enables us to engage in the world of sound around us. It offers us both comfort (the soothing sound of a mother’s lullaby) and protection (a fire alarm), while enabling us to learn, to share ideas and to enjoy pleasures like music, nature and conversations with friends and loved ones. Damage to the inner ear from loud noise, aging, exposure to ototoxic drugs and certain medical conditions can reduce our ability to hear - often happening so slowly
and subtly that others may notice the change in our hearing before we do. It is estimated that more than 30 million Americans have a hearing loss (approximately 1 out of 10 people). Hearing loss affects people of all ages. In fact 65 percent of people with hearing loss are younger than 65! One in six baby boomers have a hearing problem. One in fourteen Generation Xers already have hearing loss. At least 1.4 million children have hearing problems (source: Better Hearing Institute).
Dr. Lisa E. Tanner
IT IS RECOMMENDED that everyone’s hearing be screened at least every 10 years through age 50 and at 3-year intervals thereafter; sooner if they have a conditions that place them at risk for hearing impairment. If you have not had your hearing screened, please call us for a FREE hearing screening performed by a doctor of audiology in an audiometric chamber
To learn more about Dr. Tanner and Advanced Diagnotics and Hearing Solutions, please visit us online at www.adhs-brandon.com foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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business profile
US Lawns of Lakeland by K r y s t e l K n o w l e s
Having a well-kept lawn is satisfying and it represents a person’s way of living. Having a beautiful lawn can make a big difference in someone’s life. It can uplift your mood and make your home feel more welcoming. Eric Jayne used to be in the car business but decided to make a career change because he wanted to spend more time with his family. Jayne believes that spending time with family is very important and it’s the biggest priority in his life. In 2007 Jayne decided to purchase U.S Lawns of Lakeland because it was the perfect change. Jayne learned as quickly as possible about the new business and made much needed changes. He said that his first day as the owner was a challenge but very exciting. U.S Lawns of Lakeland specializes in landscape maintenance, installation, fertilization, pest control and irrigation. Jayne said his company applies best management practices for Florida. He feels it is very important to apply fertilizers correctly and follow the codes. He prides himself in the
work ethic of his employees and following good business practices. He decided to focus on more customer and employee interaction. According to Jayne, after implementing the new changes customers were happier and became repeat customers. Jayne said the customers from the previous owner are happier than ever before. He takes the time to call customers and ask them if they are satisfied with the job that was done. Jayne said his employees are required to wear their uniforms and carry their work ID at all times because he wants to give his customers piece of mind. His goal is to make sure his employees are happy and very well-trained for the job. U.S. Lawns has implemented training programs to ensure employees are well trained in customer service as well as proper use of equipment and up-to-date landscape practices. Unlike other competing companies, Jayne takes the time to sit with the client and discuss in great detail the expectations of the customer. He asks them about their concerns and needs, addresses all the issues
Eric Jayne believes in great customer service and doing a job well. Photo by Krystel Knowles
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and gives them suggestions. U.S Lawns is very hands on, striving to make each and every customer satisfied with their service. U.S Lawns of Lakeland is family owned and operated which means there is more direct involvement with the customers and employees. Another change Jayne implemented is communicating a lot more with the clients and making them feel they are being heard. His goal is to make every customer a repeat customer. U.S Lawns of Lakeland does the job right and goes above and beyond. Quality work is their top priority because making sure a customer’s home or business looks good will directly reflect positively
Us Lawns of Lakeland www.uslawns.com 4015 Holden Road Lakeland, FL 33811-1338 (863) 648-4880
on the company. Jayne, his wife and his staff believe is doing the job right the first time and being available to answer any questions the client may have. U.S.Lawns provides quality work and satisfaction is guaranteed. Jayne feels that every customer becomes a business partner. He hopes that with quality work and by communicating with the customer, his business will grow through word of mouth
Eric Jayne the new owner of US Lawns. Photo by Krystel Knowles
Plant City Pediatrics physician, Timothy B. Williams, D.O., F.A.A.P., is a native of Bradenton, FL. He received his BA degree in science education from USF and a Master of Education degree from UCF. He received his medical degree from Nova Southeastern University of Ft. Lauderdale. Dr. Williams completed his Pediatrics residency at Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX. He is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He has been practicing Pediatrics since 1993. Dr. Williams and his wife have lived in Plant City for over 10 years. They have five children and regularly attend Transforming Life Ministries Church in Plant City. Dr. Williams opened Plant City Pediatrics in October 2002. The practice
has grown to a staff of 21, including five providers who assist in caring for the patients: Emily Buchholz, PA-C Noemi Melendez-Kaylor, PA-C Katherine Steward, ARNP Courtney Bopp Jones, ARNP Jamie Floyd, ARNP The success of Plant City Pediatrics is a combination of Dr. Williams desire to provide quality healthcare, his genuine
concern for his patients, his down-toearth personality and a staff that shares the same qualities. To accommodate the growth of the practice, the office has relocated to 511 W. Alexander Street, Suite 2, in Plant City, across the street from Plant City High School. The new office offers separate well and sick waiting areas, 15 patient rooms and a nursing Mom’s room. It has been decorated to appeal to children and make their visit pleasant. The children will sign in at the Plant City Pediatrics Depot. They will follow the railroad tracks after they board the train which will lead them to their destination – a beautifully decorated beach, Wild West room, mountain room, etc. The practice welcomes new “passengers” and accepts most insurances. Please visit the website at plantcitypediatrics.com for more information.
Timothy B. Williams, D.O., F.A.A.P Board Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics
Emily Buchholz, P.A.-C Noemi Melendez-Kaylor, P.A.-C Katherine Steward, ARNP Courtney Bopp Jones, ARNP Jamie Floyd, ARNP 511 W. Alexander Street, Suite 2 Plant City, FL 33563
(813) 659-9800 www.plantcitypediatrics.com
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business focus
RetiRe YouR WaY! Smart Investment When you “retire,” will you volunteer? Work part time? Go back to school?
Whatever you decide, you need to be financially prepared. We can help. Find your retirement reality at our free seminar Retirement Has Changed. What’s Your Next Move? Together, we’ll explore: • How to organize and record your financial assets • How to set realistic goals for retirement spending • How to determine if you’re on track to reach your goals • What to do if you’re not where you’d like to be
Date: Tuesday, June 29, 2010 Time: 6:00pm Location: 2501 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City RSVP: Darlene (813) 759-1491
Refreshments will be served.
Michael Cameron Financial Advisor 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1491 www.edwardjones.com Member SPIC
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Moves for Newlyweds
by e d wa r d j o n e s
June is a popular month for weddings. If you’re getting married this month, you’ve got a lot on your mind, but after the honeymoon is over, it’s time to start thinking of the key activities of building a life together — one of which is creating a long-term investment strategy. To build such a strategy, you and your spouse will need to take several steps. Here are some of the most important ones: * Identify your goals. People can enter marriage at different stages of life. But whether you’re a young newlywed or a baby boomer entering a second marriage, both you and your spouse will have a set of goals you want to achieve, such as saving for a down payment on a home, saving for college for your children, building resources for a comfortable retirement, purchasing a vacation home, supporting charitable organizations and so on. It’s important that, as a couple, you identify those financial goals that are most important to you. * List your debts and assets. Generally speaking, the fewer “surprises” you and your spouse bring to a marriage, in terms of financial issues, the better. If you haven’t already done so, put your debts and assets “on the table” so you’re both aware of what you owe and what you own. This knowledge will be invaluable when you begin making the investment moves necessary to achieve your goals. * Discuss your investment styles. You and your spouse no doubt share many traits, but you will also have some differences — and one of those differences may be in your investment styles and preferences. For example, you may be an aggressive investor, while your spouse might be more conservative. What you choose to do
with those differences is up to you. You could, for example, arrive at some common ground between your two styles and use that approach in your joint investment accounts. Then, for your individual accounts, such as your IRA or 401(k), you and your spouse can follow your individual investment styles. * Start an emergency fund. Of all the investment-related moves you can make early in your marriage, none may be quite as important as building an emergency fund containing six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses in a liquid account. Without this emergency fund, you could quickly go into debt or be forced to dip into a long-term investment if you have to meet an unexpected, and unexpectedly large, expense, such as a major car repair, a new appliance or a medical bill. * Get some help. If you can make the right investment-related moves right from the beginning of your marriage, you’ll almost certainly make your lives easier. But investing can be complicated, so you and your spouse could well benefit from getting assistance from a professional financial advisor — someone who can help you create and maintain an investment portfolio that’s appropriate for your specific goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. By making the right investment moves, right from the start of your marriage, you and your spouse may be giving yourselves a “wedding gift” that may benefit you for years to come. So plan your moves carefully — and enjoy your lives together. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
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 Š 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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business success THANK YOU TO THE PLANT CITY COMMUNITY FOR ALLOWING ME TO SERVE YOU FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS. I WILL RETIRE ON AUGUST 1 AND I WOULD LIKE ALL MY CLIENTS AND FRIENDS TO VISIT MY SOUTH ALEXANDER STREET OFFICE ON JULY 30TH SO THAT I MAY EXPRESS MY GRATITUDE. . SINCERELY, DAN LARISCY, STATE FARM INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. 1605 S Alexander St, Suite 103
813-752-7202
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Lisa Tanner Advanced Diagnostics and Hearing Solutions Background : I am a lifelong resident of Plant City and because of hearing and balance problems within my own family, I have always been drawn to the field of Audiology and Sign Language. I earned my doctorate in Audiology from USF. Before opening my own private practice I worked in a very busy Hearing and Balance Clinic is South Tampa. I ’m married to Dale and I have two grown children; Loren and Lacey I’m active in a local Baptist Church. I am on the Florida Hearing Loss Association Board. I love to camp with my horses and to go kayaking (as long as it’s not gator mating season) hee-hee sounds like I’m doing a singles ad ~ I like walks on the beach and sunsets and walking in the rain.... ok so I’m amusing myself...... lol Aspirations: Hearing is one of our senses that people tend to take for granted until there is a problem. Since hearing is at the heart of our communication, my desire is to educate and help people
find hearing solutions for their hearing needs. Inspirations : My patients and their families are my inspiration. One of my favorite moments as an audiologist is when a patient hears through their cochlear implant for the first time. The reactions are indescribable. I always feel privileged to be a part of their experience. Successes: I was very blessed to win the 2010 Successful Doctor of the Year Award for Specialty Doctor in Brandon. This award is very special to me since it was judged by an independent group and I had been in business in Brandon for less than two years. Future : My short term goal is to grow my present practice which takes time and patients or is that patience (pun intended). My long term goal is to eventually be able to add balance testing to my practice.
SHOW YOUR PRIDE Buy a Memorial Brick to Honor a Veteran 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. All bricks purchased after June 15, 2010, will be installed after the July 1 dedication.
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. 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
www.veteransmonument.com Salads • Pastas • Steak • Chicken • Seafood
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Choice of Catfish Filets, Clam Strips, Mahi Mahi, Shrimp & White Fish The Place For Seafood Mix & Match - Dine In Only • Every Meal Cooked Family Owned for 35 Years! To Order Mon-Thurs 4:30 P.M.-9:00 P.M. • Several Dishes Straight Fri & Sat 4:30 P.M.-9:30 P.M. from New Orleans 1912 Main Street, Valrico • Seafood Baskets 813-571-7630 $17.49 1-1/2lbs. from $8.49
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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• Food Plot Mix • Attractants • Feeders • and much more!
Harold’s Feed & Pet Supply
Open: M-F: 8 - 6 pm Sat: 8 - 5 pm Closed Sunday
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“making the world more beautiful one room at a time”
Full Service Design Heartstrings Boutique now carrying Miche Bags and designer custom jewelry
Patricia Rogers Owner/Decorator
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L to R - Michael Williams, Dwight Williams and Dwayne Williams. Photo courtesy of The Williams Family.
Dwight Williams BACKGROUND Dwight Williams along with his sons Michael Williams and Dwayne Williams have worked together throughout the years. One of their first major undertakings was with their company called Recovery One Disaster Services. They worked in Louisiana for over a year helping to restore and rebuild. Then in 2006 Rods Trucking was formed. Just this February their newest business venture Plant City Rock and Gravel was started, and is doing very well. ASPIRATIONS Dwayne Williams said just paying the bills and being able to take care of our families has always been our main priority. INSPIRATIONS A Hard work ethic sent down through their father, has both
sons looking out for the future of their own childrens lives and security. Nothing inspires you more than seeing your own family’s needs. SUCCESSES Working together with family whether it be from the Recovery One Disaster Service, or the new Plant City Rock and Gravel they have managed to provide for and look after each other. FUTURE To build the company together, watch it grow into a permanent fixture here in Plant City and be able to have something to hand down to their children. They look forward to maintaining their good business standards and continuing to work with the Plant City residents and businesses.
We are ready to handle your storm or water damage emergency. Restoration
Dermatology Francis A. Caban, M.D., P.A. “Board Certified” by the
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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Team Wainoris ...Selling Hillsborough and Polk Multi-Million Dollar Producers
sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com | www.teamwainoris.com
Randall Wainoris 813-997-3000 REALTOR®/Attorney at Law
Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557 REALTOR® Notary
Has your dream home become a nightmare? Did you place a large down payment on your home only to watch all of your home equity disappear into thin air over the last few years? Do you need to sell your home, but were afraid that you can’t because all of your equity is gone? You are not alone! Don’t worry! Call us here at Team Wainoris; we have helped many people just like you!
PLANT CITY DREAM! Magnificent 5 bedroom, 4 1/2 bath Walden Lake pool home with private fishing pier. Tremendous volume ceilings, huge master suite, gourmet island granite kitchen and so much more! Asking $499,900
PLANT CITY POOL HOME Adorable 3 bedroom / 2 bath pool home with absolutely beautiful fenced yard just minutes from I-4 and shopping. Renovated baths, dual pane windows, separate living room and family room. Inside utility and beautiful polished wood ceilings throughout! REDUCED TO SELL AT JUST $119,900
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. Short sale: Bring all offers. REDUCED TO JUST $89,900
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. REDUCED TO JUST $117,900
SOUTH LAKELAND SHORT SALE Wonderful 4 bedroom 2 bath home off of Shepherd Road Volume ceilings, open floor plan, covered porch with fenced yard Asking just $149,000
LAKELAND HELLAM AREA
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Short sale: beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on quiet cul de sac. Large master suite, huge family room with fireplace. Asking just $185,000
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
BEAUTIFUL AFFORDABLE HOME UNIQUE 3,000 SQ’ WALDEN LAKE HOME
GORGEOUS WATERFRONT VIEW!
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
You will love this 4 Bedroom 2 Bath Walden Lake home featuring tile floors, formal Living & Dining Rooms, Kitchen that opens to the Family Room, great yard and so much more. Don’t miss this at only $169,900
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. $289,000
Walk through the leaded glass doors and you will know this is IT! Great 3-way split floor plan features 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, Formal Living & Dining, Large Family Room, fabulous pool & spa. You will be proud to call it HOME! $265,000
GOLF COURSE HOME IN HAMMOCKS
ASTON WOODS GOLF COURSE HOME
FABULOUS 2-STORY HOME
WALDEN WOODS TOWNHOME
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. $245,000
WARM & WELCOMING
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
WALDEN LAKE IN EMERALD FOREST COMPLETELY REMODELED & UNDER $100,000!
Short Sale APPROVED! Fabulous Santa Cruz model with TONS of UPGRADES. 3 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath w/2 Car Garage. $125,000
ALAFIA RIDGE ESTATES SH
O
RT
SA
LE
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. $169,900
3 bedroom 1664 sq’ home PERFECT for a starter or downsizing home. Located minutes off I4 on the quaint brick streets in the heart of Plant City. New Metal roof, New Kitchen, New Bath & more!
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 June 21st at 6:00 PM at the new office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. It is open to all residents interested in attending. A special thank you goes out to Complete Land Care for donating 10 of the 25 trees required by the City to obtain the Certificate of Occupancy for the new office building. Just a reminder, prior to doing any exterior work on your home, you must get Architectural Approval from your neighborhood board. Even if the home is being painted the same color or the roof is being redone with the same color, it is necessary to get approval prior to any work being done. Always check with your Board if you are not sure
you need approval. City Permits for work are not an approval of the Deed Restrictions. The Master Association presented a beautiful Memorial Day Wreath at the Plant City Ceremony to honor Veterans that have passed away. The Garden Club replanted the Butterfly Garden and the Butterflies are back enjoying their special flowers. The Board asks for your patience as the maintenance team goes about replanting the entries. We had a very rough winter and all of the entries need work. They will get done. At the meeting, there was discussion about installing an alarm system in the office and maintenance buildings. Tom Duramus will look into the costs and report back at the next meeting. The Building Use Policy was reviewed and accepted with changes
APARTMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY
One bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income
and should be ready to be adopted by the next meeting. If you have any questions on the use of the buildings, please contact Bette at the Association. The Board talked about having local artists’ work in the reception area of the office building. The art would hang for one month and will be rotated to new artists each month. The Board is looking into the costs for a rack system where the art will be hung. The Deed Restrictions and By Laws for each neighborhood and for the Master Association will now be located in the public section of the website, www.waldenlake.org . Anyone wishing to see the deed restrictions can now be directed the website. Marlene is continuing to enforce the deed restrictions in 13 neighborhoods. There have been a few major issues although most issues are resolved with the first notification to the resident. The Master Association Board hosted an Open House/Presidents Meeting on May 24th. The Presidents
of the individual neighborhoods were encouraged to bring along their spouses. Everyone had a fun evening and all were impressed by the new office building. Stop in and see what your special assessment was used for. The Association has been notified of approximately 85 foreclosure actions in Walden Lake. Not all of these properties will actually go through the full process of foreclosure. Some residents will bring their mortgage back in good standing, some will have the opportunity to modify their loan, and others may choose to sell their home as a “short sale”. In the mean time, the Board recommends that you always keep your association fees current as non-payment of those fees, will lead to additional costs and liens on the property. Remember to lock your car doors and remove or keep your valuables out of sight. An unlocked car is an invitation that you really don’t want to give.
SUMMER SPECIAL
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Applications available at each location 80
june 2010 thefocusmagazine.com
Locksmith Exclusive Hardware For fast courteous installation contact
H. CHARLES LOCKSMITH
813-777-7885 TUMBLERKIDD@MSN.COM
*Restricted to Plant City residential. Locks to be installed into standard existing lock cutouts. Additional charges for machining cutouts and strikes.
NATE DAVIS MORTGAGE CONSULTANT
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Being young , firs standably ner t-time home buyers, we were undervous and anxi o particularly during these us about the whole proce times of eco ss, We wanted a nomic goo Luckily, our re d deal, but didn’t know h uncertainty. ow to get th altor recomm ere. en ping around for us. We wer ded Nate, who did the s hope most impre with Nate’s ssed, howev honesty and er, genuineness his way for u . He has gone s, including s out of taying late a us because o t the office to f ou meet helped us sec r own time conflicts. No t only has he ure a mortga ge that has beautiful new gotten us into home, but he’ our s also offered and knowled ge of availab credit advice le tax credit Nate! s as well! Tha nks, -David and K aren Oates
Several mon ths mine and said ago, I was talking with a colle ague of th Company Rep at I was frustrated with Mortgage resentatives . uncaring, an d not very kn I found them to be unfrie owle ndly, “You should contact Nate dgeable. My colleague s aid, D a ker at Plant vis. He is a M City Mortga ortgage Bro g e. helpful and h You will find h e stays invo im to be very lv ed the whole pro with you per sonally thro cess of your ugh mortgage lo an. I took my co lleague’s advi ce and called experience w Nate Davis. ith Nate has My been exhilara someone wh ting. I needed o would take a p and Nate wa ersonal inte rest on my b s th ehalf charge immed e person who filled that void. H e too iately. He ke k p t saving me a me informed lot of money daily while . To Davis is an u say that I re nderstatem commend Na ent. Anyone te vis will not b who uses Na e disappointe te D d a b customer ser ut will receiv e extraordin vice. ary - G. Herringto n
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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WE ARE PLANT CITY’S REAL ESTATE MARKET LEADER! Ask US about: Short Sales (We have the Experts) Foreclosures (We have the Experts) HUD Homes (HUD-Approved Broker) Residential (Local, Tri-County, Central Florida) Vacant Land (Agric/Industrial/Comm’l) Commercial (35+ Years of Local Experience)
We focus on the Customer, providing Truly Remarkable Service. Stop by Our House Today!
HOMES OF MERIT
Everything as it should be! This neat, well kept home has new wood cabinets with silestone counter tops. New upgraded quality and professionally installed laminate floor in great room and kitchen (no “click clack” sound!). The AC is just a year old, with a ten year warranty! Completely fenced with quality 8ft chain link. Glamour master bath with garden tub, dual sinks and separate room for commode. Huge screened porch to enjoy your evenings outside. Overlooking large oak trees in the back. Carport is high enough to accommodate a small RV. Bring your boat, four wheelers, and all your family toys! MLS #T2408880 located in Mulberry, offered at $69,000. Call Maggie today, 813-299-7155
NEEDS A BUYER!
A FAMILY HAVEN!
This one-acre, 4BR/2BA gem has great floor plan for families! Split bedrooms plus a large family room with fireplace in between the dining/living room and 3 other bedrooms will keep everyone happy. Eating space in the spacious kitchen keeps your dining room neat and is great for watching the little ones as you do a load of laundry. No deed restrictions! Quiet, dead-end country road is conveniently located to town and its conveniences but makes you feel like you’re away from it all. $84,509. MLS #T2373300. Call Lynne Halleran, 813-763-1881.
This 3 bedroom, 3 bath custom-built home on its own immaculate acre has something for everyone. Over 2000 sq ft with private bedrooms and a bath for the kids on one side of the house, plus a separate den or 4th bedroom. 3rd bathroom off the family room could be a pool bath or just reserved for guests. Beautiful designer kitchen features blonde wood cabinets with crown molding, flat-top range, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, tile backsplash. Breakfast bar and nook with seamless glass windows that overlook the peaceful, tree-ringed backyard. Master bath features walk-in decorator-tiled shower, garden spa tub, dual sinks with adult-height vanities, walk-in closet, separate lavatory and designer light fi xtures. Inside utility room with laundry sink, central vacuum system, low-e windows. All this on a private, dead-end road lined with custom-built homes. Don’t miss the fabulous details here! Property is USDA-eligible. Offered at $239,525. Additional one-acre lot available. MLS #T2419384. Call Lynne 813-763-1881 or Cindy 813-760-7957.
CALL ME FOR NEW LOWER PRICE
WOW FACTOR
Some land is just OK, and then there is land like this that dreams are made of. Call for your private tour and let me show you the legacy property you have been looking for your family. Build new or just enjoy the existing sturdy and completely updated and charming 3 BR home. Mls #t2400163. Call Maggie 813-299-7155
1 Acre, in beautiful Emerald Acres you will find this 6BR/4.5 BA/3CG home with more than 4600 heated s.f. Over 30 real estate agents came by for an open house today...some of their comments: “Lovely home” “Beautiful neighborhood” “So easy to get everywhere from here” “Great floor plan” “Excellent price” “Closets are HUGE” “Master bath is a WOW!” Call me today if you want to explore this most special custom home! MLS #T2388067. $498,000. Call Maggie 813-299-7155
NEW LISTING!
NEW LISTING!
EAGLE GREENS
Own a home in the middle of Plant City’s Historic District, on a double lot with two out buildings. Brick street, near downtown. Home needs restoration from fire damage. Built in 1916, this property is available for $165,000. MLS #T2421560. Call Jimmie for more information, 813-390-6441
Historic home built in 1866, needs some restoration, but priced to sell. Almost 1/2 acre corner lot in city limits w/city water and sewer. Roof is only 6 yrs old. Sold As-Is, cash offers only. NOT A SHORT SALE. QUICK CLOSE. $59,900. MLS #T2419457. Call Jimmie, 813-390-6441
Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath condo on conservation and golf course lot. Updated kitchen and bath to include new appliances, wood cabinets, granite countertops. New wood flooring greets you as you walk in the front door and view to private screened area off family room. The builtin mirrored walls in the dining room and great room bring out the nice features of this open floor plan. Great for entertaining both inside and outside on those cooler evenings. Lots of storage, custom blinds and pantry are other great features of this care-free lifestyle. Relax in the community pool, or play a round of golf outside your back door. Now at $139,900. MLS #T2381230. Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441
GREAT PRICE & LOCATION
STOP LOOKING!
ACREAGE ON FRONTAGE RD
A must see!! This is it! Bright, clean and in excellent condition. This 4 BR/3 BA home is move-in ready. Nice front porch for family gatherings overlooks the big yard with beautiful oak trees. Located only two minutes from Wal Mart, Publix, and SweetBay. You can enjoy shopping time again. This home has the perfect kennel for your dog. Do you like saving money on your energy bill? This home has the Aura Economizer whole house ventilation system. $138,500. MLS #T2419349. Call Brenda Ruiz today, 813-967-0831.
Beautiful 8 acres high and dry - fenced and zoned 4 units per acre. Highway frontage on South Frontage Road and Interstate 4. Home on the property is older with 1946 heated sq ft, 3 car carport, central heat and air, and sold “As-Is”. Land is suitable for horses, cattle, or future development. Property has Greenbelt exemption.$375,000. MLS #T2390805. Call Jimmie, 813-390-6441
Very cute and clean, ready for first time buyer or investor. Located near interstate, HCC community college, Sansone Park and downtown. Good floor plan, this 3BR/1BA home with with 958 sq. ft. features all ceramic tile, utility laundry and detached garage/ workshop with lots or storage. Newer A/C and roof, with well for irrigation, nice fenced yard. Priced affordably at $77,500. MLS #T2421282. Call Maddie Alford today, 813-382-8382.
Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs
1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City
813-754-3586
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www.floridamoves.com/plantcity
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE
KW
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MEDITERRANEAN Style Townhome, BRAND SPANKIN’ NEW – Never Lived In, 2 B/R w/ Den, 2.5 Baths, 1522 sq ft, just $96,858. Seller will pay $4500 towards closing cost too! 3 B/R also available. Monthly payment of $852 includes everything, 100% Financing, 5.13% 30 year Fixed Rate, USDA
$79,900
BARGAIN HUNTER’S DELIGHT…3 B/R Block Home, Remodeled Kitchen and Bath, Ceramic Tile throughout, Screened Porch, Fenced. NICE!
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6 ACRES
KEYSVILLE AREA…4 B/R, 3.5 Bath, 4051 sq ft Pool Home on 6 Acres for just $299,000! Barn / WORKSHOP with electric. This is a short sale and the home needs a little TLC but a terrific value! Call TODAY for a personal tour of this property.
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MOVE IN READY… 3 B/R, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage Home in Brandon Traces. Oak Laminate in Living/ Dining area, NEW Interior Paint, Upgraded Light Fixtures, NEW A/C, Screened Patio, Fenced, Extra BIG Yard. $124,900. NE W CO
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Curious about Home Listings, Home Sales, and Market Trends in your Neighborhood? Visit www.PlantCityMarketSnapshot.com for monthly automatic updates.
Lorraine Bennett (813) 716-3997 MyHappyRealtor.c
om *Annual Total Gross Closed Volume
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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COLE PROPERTIES
real estate mortgage
Look To Us For Living P.O. Drawer DD • Plant City, Fl 33564 ColeProperties@tampabay.rr.com
(813) 659-2601 659-1901 Devonshire Eastbourne Apartments Apartments phone
fax
1006 W. Baker St., Plant City, Florida 33563
1003 W. Mclendon St., Plant City, Florida 33563
Coronation Court
Le Bon Apartments
(office is located on this site in unit #6)
13880 U.S. Hwy 92 E., Dover, FL 33527 4540 Bethlehem Rd., Plant City 33563
1204 W. Reynolds St., Plant City, FL 33563
Need a vacation?
We can help with that too! Call Stephanie for information on or reservations at our beautiful Gulf Front Treasure Island Beach Condos.
(813) 380-6496
Al Cole
Cara Cole Stare property manager
owner
FREE Credit Reports from: Transunion, Experian, and Equifax S t o r y by N at e D av i s
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Now Enrolling summer VPK
(June 14-July 23, 7:30am-5:30pm)
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full time VPK and fRee part time VPK
Highly Qualified staff
school-aged summer Camp
low student/ teacher Ratios
accepting school Readiness
High Kindergarten school Readiness Rates
Walden Lake Early Learning Center 2730 Turkey Creek Rd Plant City, FL 33566 813-752-7008
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These are the three primary credit bureaus that establish your credit scores. It is not uncommon for all three scores to be different as well. For example your three scores may be a 687,702,679. The reason that these scores a different is because all information on your credit report may not be reporting to all 3 bureaus and therefore each score model has different inputs to base your score off of. Most large accounts will typically be reported to all 3 bureaus but some collections may only report to one or two of the three bureaus. This is just one of many reasons why your scores are different. When applying for a home loan, most lenders will use your middle score as your representative score. So in the above example, your representative score would be a 679 (throw out the highest and lowest score). You should check your credit bureaus at least once per year. You can do this for free by visiting
https://www.annualcreditreport. com/. Credit Bureaus are required to provide you with one free credit report per year. Keep in mind that these free report will not indicate your score (they will try to sell you that), but only the information on your report. I would not suggest purchasing the credit scores either as they are not the true score that are used when you apply for credit. They disclose that in the fine print. In other words, if you applied for a home loan and we both pulled your credit at the same exact time, my score will be different that what is reported to you as your consumer score. This is because the act of requesting credit in itself is a different risk factor than someone simply looking at their score. Regardless on the difference in scores, they will both react the same. In other words, if your consumer score goes up, so will your credit score if you are applying for a loan.
PARK PLACE WINNNER
Best Home in $140,000 to $200,000 Category &
BEST KITCHEN DESIGN 2010 Tampa Bay Builders Association
Ken Lawrence‐Multiple Award Winning Realtor And Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate Are Proud to Represent JAYCOR Homes llc Builder of This Award Winning Community in the Heart of Plant City. Please drop‐in and see these magnificent homes built to exceed Federal Energy Star Ratings. We’re located just off North Gordon St. about ½ mi. S of I‐4 Ken Lawrence & his TEAM will assist you in making what could be the Best Purchase of Your Life. Imagine 3.5% DOWN PAYMENT & NO CLOSING COSTS.* You Must Use Preferred Lender Mercantile Bank to Receive this OFFER. Subject to Change without Notice. This is a GATED Community with AFFORDABLE HOMES. How about a monthly Electricity Bill of only 82.00 Thanks to the Energy Saving Features. The Award Winning Kitchens will even impress Wolfgang. If you have a home to sell, Ken Lawrence will advise you as to how Coldwell Banker will LIST it and with America’s #1 Real Estate Services Provider, Plus Ken Lawrence and His Team’s experience, you will be able to have the very best of both worlds. WE GUARANTEE IT! JAYCOR PRESIDENT JOHN CORDELL
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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real estate real estate
Congr atulations Samantha White
Plant city High School Class of 2010
We are so proud of you!
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Home Ownership Matters S t o r y by J o - A n Lusk
Helping others become homeowners protects your home’s value and builds stronger communities. Doing your part to help other Americans gain a foothold on the homeownership ladder doesn’t just help them. You’ll benefit both your community and your own pocketbook. When people move from renting to owning a home, they’re more likely to vote, get involved in community groups, and care about their home’s appearance. The children of homeowners do 23% better in school, according to a 2001 study by Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies. And a steady flow of first-time homebuyers makes it easier to sell your own starter home when you’re ready to move up to a larger property. What about Foreclosures? Foreclosure matters because it hurts all homeowners. In 2009, foreclosures caused property values to decline an average of $7,200 for about 70 million homeowners, resulting in a $502 billion loss in home equity (estimated from the Center for Responsible Lending). Consider this interesting fact: Each foreclosure within 1/8th of a mile
of your home lowers your property value about 0.744 percent. What is sad is that if the family next door loses their home to foreclosure, my home’s value will go down. Therefore, I have a vested interest in ensuring that people become homeowners. One effective tool against foreclosure is educating homeowners before they buy. Loan delinquencies fell 13% with homeownership counseling. People who go through pre-purchase and post-purchase counseling and learn about mortgages, family budgeting, and home maintenance are less apt to face foreclosure. One way to do your part to help other homeowners is by donating your time or money to some of the many non-profits that promote responsible homeownership. Supporting federal state, and local programs that help create homeowners is another way you can expand responsible and affordable homeownership. Let us all do our part in helping others and making homeownership important, and possible.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
87
sports baseball
“You Throw Like a Girl” Local Pitcher Chelsea Baker Throws Another Perfect Game by J o e b o w l e s
“You throw like a girl.” Those were fighting words in the movie The Sandlot that led to a baseball game between the 11 and 12 year-old misfits of the sandlot and a real Little League team with real uniforms. Those might have been fighting words for that preadolescent movie, but if you say those same words in Plant City, they might be complimentary. Especially if the girl you are talking about is Chelsea Baker. Chelsea recently pitched the second perfect game (no hits and no base runners) of her short Little League career on April 9 at Mike Sansone Park in Plant City. Her first perfect game was pitched in last summer’s all-star tournament. In her latest masterpiece, she struck out 16 batters as she led her Brandon Farms major league team to victory. Chelsea, the 13 year-old sparkplug was recently selected to play for Baseball For All’s all-star baseball team made up of girls from all over the nation that will be competing against mostly all boys teams this summer at Cooperstown Dreams Park. She also plays travel baseball with Sebring’s Team Crush. This year has been a magical year for Chelsea. In addition to her pitching prowess, she is batting over .500 with three homeruns. Her Brandon Farms team won the National Division Championship with a 20-1 record, and then captured the city tournament going 5-0 in the process. Her team qualified for the District 4 Tournament of Championship and in all likelihood, she will selected to Plant City’s all-star team when the names are revealed in mid June. After her pitching gem in April, Chelsea caught the attention of the
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Tampa Bay Rays who honored her at a recent home game. She has also turned the heads of Major League Baseball who sent representatives to Plant City to film her last regular season Little League game in preparation for a documentary that will air some time in July on ESPN. A portion of that documentary will also be shown on “Good Morning America.” In addition, SI Kids, a publication of Sports Illustrated, is interested in featuring Chelsea as the SI Kid of the Month for July. Chelsea, who lives with her mother and stepfather, Missy and Rod Mason, has become somewhat of a celebrity at Turkey Creek Middle school where the seventh grader is a member of the Junior National Honor Society. In a couple of years, she will enter high school with hopes of playing baseball with the boys rather than softball with the girls. She throws a fastball in the mid sixty miles per hour range with her strikeout pitch being the knuckleball that moves downward at the last second as opposing batters flail away at the elusive pill. She learned to throw the knuckleball from former major league pitcher Joe Niekro. When Niekro retired from baseball, he made his home in Plant City and volunteered his free time at the local Little League park until his death from a heart attack in October of 2006. If throwing like a girl means all-star teams, championships, national recognition, and perfect games, it could be that the boys will soon be lining up to learn to “throw like a girl” if the girl is a girl named Chelsea.
Winding up for the delivery. Photo courtesy of of Rod and Missy Mason
Following through on the pitch. Photo courtesy of of Rod and Missy Mason
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sports
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Alex Delfino Alex Delfi no didn’t start out with a plan to become a pole-vaulter. According to him, “It was just something to do during the spring.” Delfi no was playing football and basketball when he was introduced to pole vaulting in the seventh grade and he took to it like a duck to water or should I say, like a bird to fl ight as he has developed into the best in the district, region, and the fourth best vaulter in the state of Florida. Alex is a sophomore at Plant City High School, transferring from Lakeland Christian where he was an All-County Honorable
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Mention selection as a freshman. Th is year he is a lock to be on the All-Western Conference track and field team when the selections are announced this summer. For those that know him best, like his father Ray, they are witnessing his improvement as the bar has been raised higher all season. “If he continues at the rate he is going, there is no telling what he’ll be able to do,” Ray proudly said. And who would argue with him. Alex, at 6’ and 155 lbs., improved a foot from district to regional competition. He took fi rst place at
12’ 6” in district competition and two weeks later won the regional title at 13’ 6” His personal best was 13’9” at practice. On May 9, he placed fourth in the state meet at 13’0”. His goal is to clear 15’ 0” by the end of next season. Delfi no, who was part of a Raider track team that exceeded preseason expectations, summarized their season, “Out track team did really well this year. Coach Harlan said that we’ve had one of the best years in a long time. We dominated dual meets all year. We really buckled down this year and took third place in the district.”
“Not every school participates in pole vaulting,” said Delfi no, so, whenever we have a meet at another school, our coach would call the school to make sure that they were set up for pole vaulting. At one school, they had the cushions and the bar but they said they couldn’t fi nd the standards that hold up the bar, so I couldn’t compete.” That might be the only way to keep Delfi no from competing. He credits his track coach at Lakeland Christian, Mark Kirby, for getting him started and the Raiders’ coach, Ken Harlan, for giving him the guidance and encouragement that he needed this season. He also has a personal coach, Jim Metzger, that meets with Delfi no for practice and training on a regular basis in Clermont, Florida at the National Training Center. But when pressed for the one who has helped him the most, Alex, a member of the Family Worship Center in Lakeland said, “I want to give God all the credit and all the glory for what he has done for me.” Alex’s parents, Ray and Debra, have also been there. They have taken him all over the area to compete in individual meets that are sanctioned by the USA Track and Field, the national governing body for track and field. Delfi no presently sports a 4.13 GPA (weighted) with plans to go to college in preparation to, hopefully, work for the FBI as a profi ler. The bar has been set pretty high, but don’t be surprised if he clears it.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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sports baseball
2418 James L Redman Pkwy, Plant City (813) 757-0300
The 5A-8 All District High School Baseball Teams By j o e b o w l e s
FIRST TEAM
District 5A-8 High School Baseball Player of the Year Zack Powers (Senior) Armwood (Utility/P/IF) With a fastball clocked at 90 MPH combined with pinpoint accuracy, a potent bat, and a knack for performing under pressure, Zack Powers has been named the Focus Magazine’s District 5A-8 Player of the Year. Powers helped propel Armwood to a second place finish in the Florida 5A High School Baseball Championship. In postseason play, Powers has been nothing less than spectacular, pitching his team to four wins (three complete games) striking out 27 in 19.1 innings while issuing only 5 walks. At the plate he batted .600 (9 for 15) with three doubles and six RBI’s. Overall, Powers was 8-1 on the mound with a 1.56 ERA, a .441 BA with 3 homeruns and 19 RBI’s. Powers is headed to the University of Florida.
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Catcher: Josh Spano (Jr) Armwood; Backbone of the Hawks’ defense, compiled a .457 BA with 6 homeruns and 19 RBI’s. Invaluable on mound in districts. Pitchers: Cameron Ellis (Sr) Durant; Ace went 7-1 with a district best 1.07 ERA., 59 strikeouts in 59 innings while giving up only 33 hits. Jonathan Alvarez (Sr) Plant City; Late bloomer sported best record in district going 7-0 with a 1.73 ERA in 16 games. First Base: Sebastian Ray (Sr) Plant City; First-year starter was a clutch performer hitting .412 with 10 doubles, 24 runs, and 23 RBI’s. Infield: Tyler Lawson (Jr) Tampa Bay Tech; Sparkplug led district with .458 batting average, .512 OBP, 33 hits, 9 stolen bases while playing a stellar shortstop. Kyle Madill (Sr) Plant City; Toughest out in the district, striking out only 5 times in 102 plate appearances. Hit .427, 4 homeruns, led district with 18 stolen bases. Zach Turner (Jr) East Bay; Came up big for Indians batting .390 with 12 RBI’s and 3 triples. Matthew Singletary (Jr) Plant City; Led state (5A) in runs scored with 37. Hit 3 homers while batting .368. Outfield: Tyler Alexander (Sr) Armwood; Came up huge for the Hawks. Led district with .765 slugging percentage. Hit .412, 5 homeruns, and 31 RBI’s. Micah Carmony (Sr) Plant City; Raiders’ slugger led district with 30 RBI’s in regular season. Batted .338 with 13 stolen bases and 4 homeruns. Chris Newcombe (Sr) East Bay;
Catalyst of the Indians offense. BA of .363, slugging percentage of .620, 15 stolen bases, and 3 homeruns. Utility: Zack Powers (Sr) Armwood; Player of the Year
SECOND TEAM Catcher: Eric Santiago (Sr) Riverview; A.302 BA with 2 homeruns and 10 RBI’s. Pitchers: John Souza (Sr) Plant City; Reliever went 4-0. ERA of 1.36 was second best in district. Trey Oest (Soph) Durant; Despite a 2-3 record, Oest sported a 1.75 ERA with 45 strikeouts in 36 innings. First Base: Santiago Lopez (Sr) Tampa Bay Tech; Team captain batted .338, committed only 2 errors in 102 chances in the field. Infield: Justin Rose (Soph) Riverview; 8 doubles, 2 homeruns while batting .319 with a .435 OBP. Jackson Fameree (Jr) Armwood; Batted .359 with 21 runs scored, 12 stolen bases. KShawn Smith (Sr) Plant City; Defensive standout. BA of .300, 27 runs, 21 RBI’s and 4 homers. Outfield: Brett Jones (Sr) Durant; Batted .327 with .417 OBP. Reliever had 2-1 record with 1.62 ERA. Jacob Burgess (Jr) Durant; Led Cougars with .371 BA , 14 runs, 14 RBI’s, 2 homeruns. Tristan Speak (Sr) Riverview; Posted a. BA of .333, one homer, 2-0 record in 22 innings on the mound. Utility: Julius Engel (Jr) Newsome; Batted .328, 2.62 ERA in 13 relief appearances.
sports softball
2418 James L Redman Pkwy, Plant City (813) 757-0300
The 5A-8 All District High School Softball Teams By j o e b o w l e s
District 5A-8 High School Softball Player of the Year Kayla Cox (Senior) East Bay (P) The Focus Magazine’s District 5A-8 Player of the year is East Bay High School senior Kayla Cox. After four years on the mound and 52 victories, the last win was the sweetest as Cox led the Indians to the Florida 5A State High School Softball Championship. Cox finished the year with a record of 18-1, 282 strikeouts in 148 innings with a miniscule ERA of 0.19 while giving up only 35 walks. In the postseason, Cox picked up 7 wins, averaging 13 strikeouts per contest. With a fastball, curveball, riser, dropball, changeup, and a screwball, batters are baffled at the plate. Earlier this season she struck out 20 in a 7 inning game and last season she recorded 31 strikeouts in a 13 inning battle. Cox is headed to North Carolina State University.
FIRST TEAM
SECOND TEAM
Catcher: Taylor Storey (Jr) Plant City; Most feared batter in district. Hit .453, 36 RBI’s, with 7 homeruns, .880 slugging percentage. Pitchers: Kayla Cox (Sr) East Bay; Player of the Year. MacKenzie Audus (Jr) Plant City; Raiders’ ace recorded 13 wins, 1.05 ERA with 228 strikeouts in 120 innings. First Base: Elizabeth Nugent (Sr) East Bay; Indians slugger batted .407 with 26 RBI’s, 10 doubles and 2 triples. Infield: Kayleen Boatwright (Jr) Riverview; Slick fielding shortstop batted .424, scoring 29 runs. Had 11 extra base hits for .714 slugging percentage. Kristen Wyckoff (Fr) Plant City; Hit .425 while leading the district with 29 runs scored and 35 stolen bases. Brittany Harwell (Sr) Durant; Led all Cougars with .424 BA. With 9 doubles-third highest in district. Victoria Cooper (Jr) East Bay; Indians slugger hit 3 homers (2nd in district) and knocked in 25 RBI’s while batting .354. Outfield: Jenn Owens (Jr) Newsome; Consistent performer for Sharks, batted .354 with 15 runs, and 12 RBI’s. Analise Coffee (Jr) Plant City; Came up big for the Raiders batting .386, plating 17 runs with 12 stolen bases. Alyssa Caisse (Soph) East Bay; Nearly flawless in the field committing only one error. Pounded out 32 hits for a .348 BA. Utility: Nicole Kennedy (Jr) East Bay; Batted .750 in state tournament with a double, 2 singles and 2 walks. Season BA.of .395
Catchers: Sierra Rock (Jr) East Bay; Provided power for Indian attack with 25 RBI’s and 11 extra base hits. BA of .352. Megan Brislin (Soph) Riverview; Second in district with doubles. .380 BA and .549 Slugging percentage. Pitcher: Bailey Schinella (Jr) Newsome; Versatile player picked up 9 wins, ERA of 1.16 with 104 strikeouts in 96 innings. Also batted .365. First Base: Ally Lendenham (Sr) Newsome; Batted .296 with 12 RBI’s. Was 7-2 with a 1.86 ERA on the mound. Infield: Christina Caisse (Soph) East Bay; Led Indians with 35 hits. Drove in 23 runs while hitting ,357. Emily Holman (Jr) Riverview; Posted a BA of .408 with 29 hits and 17 RBI’s. Mackensie McAvoy (Soph) Plant City; Toughest out in district striking out only 4 times in 96 plate appearances. Hit .440 with 21 RBI’s. Outfield: Brielle Gordon (Sr) Durant; Had a strong finish. Batted .303 with 8 extra base hits including 3 homeruns. Kellsey Bruner (Jr) Plant City; Defensive standout batted .288 with 21 hits. Jordan LaFave (Soph) Durant; led the Cougars in runs with 20. Batted .295 with 4 triples. Utility: Taylor McCoy (Soph) Riverview; Second in district with 30 RBI’s. Had 8 extra base hits and batted .333.
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
93
sports fitness
Fitness Matters
Expert answers to your health and wellness questions by S e’a R ya n
Question: I am someone who regularly skips meals and workouts, thanks to both a busy work schedule and family life. I’m wondering if you have any tips that might get me back on track? Answer: Luckily, there are many people that lead busy lives while still finding the time for healthy meals and productive workouts—it can be done! You need to make sure that fitness and nutrition are priorities in your life. Once you make this commitment, doing the “right” thing will seem like a lot less work. Try taking an inventory of your week on Sunday night, figuring out which days are light and which ones are heavy in terms of work and family responsibilities. Then, you can schedule your workouts in your planner and resolve any meal planning issues as well. For example, maybe you need to pack more comprehensive snacks if you have a meeting during lunch, or maybe you need to create a reminder so you remember to take frozen meat out of the freezer the night before you cook it. These seem like small, almost trivial changes, but they make a world of difference when you’re in a time crunch. We typically schedule things we don’t want to forget, so why not schedule meals and workouts, too? Question: Lately, my goal has been to eat healthier snacks during the day, since I’m a big fan of chips and candy bars. What do you guys recommend as alternatives?
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Answer: We get asked this quite a bit, so we definitely have some favorites. If you want something similar to your candy bar, you could certainly go with a sports nutrition bar. The main difference is that the sports bars are a bit more balanced with additional protein and less fat. They also typically have more vitamins and minerals as well. As a result, they make for a better meal replacement than a traditional candy bar. If you want some “real foods,” which we recommend, check out the short list below: Celery and carrots with low-fat dip Plain yogurt with granola and blueberries Whole grain crackers with hummus Cottage cheese with apple slices Trail mix with dried fruit and nuts String cheese and a banana ½ whole grain bagel with peanut butter Low-sodium beef jerky Rice cakes with lean ham or turkey Edamame (soybeans in the pod) 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@ verizon.net .
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
95
extra Seniors of the month
Seniors
of the
Currie Dickerson
Month
Each and every month, many outstanding seniors have been presented to the community of Plant City: students of courage, determination, and passion. Putting into words just how amazing these individuals are can be quite a challenge, for they each display a multitude of notable characteristics and add so much to our city. I have had the privilege of writing their articles every month, and learning just how special they truly are. All of these notable seniors are going on to accomplish great and world-changing things, and hopefully someday they will give back to Plant City what it has so lovingly put into them. Well, as for me, I am heading to North Greenville University in the fall. It is an up and coming Christian college in Greenville, South Carolina, and I am excited to absorb every opportunity presented throughout this experience. I have received an academic scholarship and will be participating in the Honor’s program. Despite the 5:30a.m. daily practices, I will also be a member of NGU’s cross country team in the fall. Another important aspect of my life is Track and Field, where I have been strengthened both physically and mentally. A moment I will never forget is placing eighth in the Florida Track State Finals with my dedicated 4x800 meter relay team last year. Many of the best moments of my life were spent with those girls, despite the long and difficult practices everyday, and I was honored to pass off the baton to them during that race. From interning at FOCUS Magazine this year, I have decided to major in Broadcast Media and minor in Political Science. I thoroughly enjoyed understanding the heart of my community and trying to put into words just how caring the area of Plant City truly is. Also, being involved in the Miss Florida pageant recently has also given me opportunities to interview and speak to many influential people throughout Florida. I will be competing in the pageant this July. Both of these experiences will prepare me to one day achieve my dream career of reporting at FOX News and being an influential voice for the American people. One of my mother’s favorite Bible verses for me in Luke 12:48 says “To much whom has been given, much is required.” I believe that this applies to my life right now, as God has provided so many unique opportunities for me this year. The journey along the way, no matter how difficult, has developed me into a person who has a passion for Jesus Christ. I can never know what lies ahead for me in the future, but what I do know is that whatever my life will entail, I will always keep Christ as my main focus and glorify him with all of my actions.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
97
extra Al ruechel
“An 8-ounce carton of chocolate milk has about 26 grams of sugar verses white milk with only 12 grams”.
Nutritionists try to break chocolate milk “fix”! S u b m i t t e d by a l r u e c h e l
Well it’s about time. Some nutritionists are finally defending chocolate milk even as state education leaders are trying to get rid of it. They want to remove it from school menus because they say it contains too much sugar which is why all of our kids are so fat. Okay, that’s a paraphrase. The same goes for strawberry or other flavored milks. Sure, they make up 70 percent of all the milk sales in schools but what do kids know anyway. Instead, state higher ups would like kids to choose pure fruit juices or white milk in the
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blue cartons. They say helping, I say forcing kids to make the right choices will make for healthier students. I love it when educators are so immersed in what goes into our mouths they forget to see the forest for the trees… or is it the trees for the forest? Never mind. No one can argue that chocolate and strawberry milk have a lot more calories than regular old white milk. After all, the syrups which are used to make the flavored milks are mostly corn syrup or other sweetens. An 8-ounce carton of
chocolate milk has about 26 grams of sugar verses white milk with only 12 grams. There’s even a dude in Colorado who says kids could gain as much as three pounds per year from chocolate milk consumption alone. One more factoid from my friends at the St. Pete Times: school sales account for more than half of all flavored milk sold in the U.S. So, back to some of those pesky nutritionists who don’t agree with the state high and “muckity mucks”. They say kids will just end up drinking more juices that contain even many more calories. They say if kids stop drinking milk their diets will lack the necessary calcium and potassium for bone development. Did I mention the farmers are really ticked because they say milk sales will drop, they will need more subsidies, the stars will fall from the heavens and the Cubs may even win the World Series? Now, my take on the matter. After raising four kids I can tell you
two things for sure. One, not all kids are fat. My kids have skinny genes in them and I don’t mean the kind you put on. Heck, my sons drank chocolate milk like it was water and they still barely weighed 170 pounds even though they are both 6 feet 4 inches tall. It was a battle getting them to eat broccoli. My wife was very creative in getting them to eat alfalpha sprouts by calling them space weeds. And she got them to slug down a teaspoon of cod liver oil each day without the promise of a new car when they reached 16 years of ago. Forget this obesity stuff for just a second. The truth about white milk verses chocolate is simple. White milk in those blue cartons tastes funny. Go ahead, ask any kid. How many times have you opened one of them up only to take a big swig of sour milk? It only happens once!!!!!
5 5
O S R O S WHILE AT TOMLIN…… E M JA •OUTSTANDING TIGER AWARD - 2010 TOMLIN MIDDLE SCHOOL
•PLACED 1ST IN STATE AT THE FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS OF AMERICA STATE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY •1ST PLACE FOR BOYS AT THE PLANT CITY OPTIMIST CLUB ORATORICAL COMPETITION •RECEIVED THE FREDERICK CUBBERLY FLORIDA HISTORY AWARD AT THE STATE COMPETITION OF THE FLORIDA HISTORY FAIR •CERTIFICATE OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN HISTORY •CERTIFICATE OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE - HIGH HONOR ROLL PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
•PLACED 2ND FOR JUNIOR HISTORICAL PAPER AT THE TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER 2010 FLORIDA HISTORY FAIR •RECEIVED PATRICK RIORDAN AWARD FOR FLORIDA HISTORY AT THE TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER 2010 FLORIDA HISTORY FAIR •RECEIVED THE KARL GRISMER AWARD FOR TAMPA BAY AREA HISTORY AT THE TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER 2010 FLORIDA HISTORY FAIR
JAMES HAS A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOR, HE LIKES ANIMALS AND IS AN EXPERT AT VIDEO GAMES. HE IS A MEMBER OF THE ST. CLEMENT CATHOLIC CHURCH YOUTH GROUP AND PARTICIPATES IN MANY COMMUNITY SERVICE EVENTS. JAMES HAS PLAYED ON THE TOMLIN SOCCER AND BASKETBALL TEAMS, BUT HIS FAVORITE SPORT IS FOOTBALL. HE HAS PLAYED PLANT CITY DOLPHIN FOOTBALL SINCE HE WAS 4 YEARS OLD AND WILL PLAY FOR THE PCHS RAIDERS THIS YEAR. JAMES HAS EXCELLED ACADEMICALLY AT TOMLIN MIDDLE SCHOOL, BUT NOW HAS SOME VERY BIG SHOES TO FILL AS HE ENTERS PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL. JAMES’S OLDER BROTHER ANDREW, GRADUATED NUMBER 4 IN HIS CLASS LAST YEAR FROM PCHS WITH A WEIGHTED GPA OF 6.24. ANDREW COMPLETED SO MANY AP CREDITS DURING HIGH SCHOOL, HE ENTERED UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA WITH JUNIOR STATUS AT THE AGE OF 17 AND HAS COMPLETED HIS 1ST YEAR WITH A 4.0 GPA. JAMES IS PRETTY CONFIDENT THAT HE TOO WILL BE HEADING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA WHEN THE TIME COMES.
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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extra Derek maul “I taught ESE for almost two decades, and it was shocking to observe how many parents believed it was our job to make school easy for their kids! ”
Mostly, it’s about believing S u b m i t t e d by D e r e k M a u l
Graduation ceremonies are always meaningful occasions. College and high school are the “standards”, but it’s not unheard of to receive an engraved invitation – RSVP – to watch your favorite four-year-old walk across the stage in a cap and gown. Early summer sees commencement exercises of all sorts, but this year’s most meaningful - for me - had to have been the hour I spent with a group of 8th Grade students at Turkey Creek Middle School. They had successfully completed the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) program and were more than ready for high school and the rest of their lives.
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The annual event, emceed by former assistant principal Scott Anderson, is a banquet of celebration and encouragement. Ten 8th grade students made their way across the stage in front of a room full with parents, teachers, students, administrators and guests. Principal Dennis Mayo kicked off the ceremony with a welcome, and by the time the graduates headed for the buffet they were weighed down with more awards than some could carry. So why all the fuss? Why make so much noise about the simple transition into high school? Why not just hand over report cards and start getting ready for the next
batch? The answer addresses the whole point of ESE. We have a remarkable federal initiative that mandates a “free and appropriate” education (public law 94-142, 1975, re-imagined as IDEA in 1990), and it’s a plan designed to make sure all children have access to first-rate schooling – regardless. However, such a venture only works when the effort goes both ways. The point of ESE is not to make school easy; the point is to make school possible. Forgive me, but I must repeat the thought. It’s a powerful idea that I don’t want us to gloss over. The point of exceptional student education – and this applies to pretty much any public program – is not to make school easy; the point is to make school possible. I taught ESE for almost two decades, and it was shocking to observe how many parents believed it was our job to make school easy for their kids! But that’s not it at all. What good ESE teachers do is everything in their power to make success an option for those students and families prepared to do their part and work as a team. And, let me tell you, Turkey Creek has some good ESE teachers. That’s the reason ten 8th grade graduates walked across the stage having actually achieved something. That’s what exceptional student education is all about. The event’s sponsor was kind enough to invite me to speak, so I told the students about my son, Andrew, who really didn’t enjoy
school that much when he was their age. “But today he’s doing a job that he loves, committed to helping people, travelling all over the world, and making enough money to live the kind of life he wants,” I said. “And I’m going to tell you how.” I dove in while I had their attention. “The first thing Andrew did was simply hang in there. It’s not enough to say that ‘50% of success is just showing up.’ It turns out that 100% of achievement depends on hanging around to the end. So I want to encourage you to stay in school. “The other thing was that Andrew believed. People may tell you ‘seeing is believing’. But my son realized there are things that you’re never going to see until you first believe.” ESE is about making good use of all the abilities at a students’ disposal. It’s about teachers, parents, and students working together to take collective responsibility and to give everyone a fighting chance. And, mostly, it’s about believing. 2010 Strawberry Queen Natalie Burgin drove the point home at the end of her talk. “You can do it!” she said with a huge smile, and the kind of enthusiasm only festival queens can pull off with any credibility. And she really meant it – you could tell.
You can reach Derek Maul at Derekmaul@Gmail.com, or visit www.Derekmaul.net
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extra ken lawrence
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By any means possible, the powers that run the city of Plant City have worked night and day to balance the books at a time when some municipalities across America areon the verge of bankruptcy. In an event that City Manager Greg Horwedel hopes to make an annual affair, the city hosted a luncheon at the HCC campus in which it reported on the city’s finances and the news was quite good. “The state of the City is stable, with a positive outlook for the future”, Manager Horwedel reports. Given that the 2009-10 Budget is more than 10% lower than the previous year and the Millage Rate is the lowest in Hillsborough County, Plant City has done wonders to keep taxes at their same rate. With a Budget of almost $25 million and property taxes only accounting for about 1/3rd of that amount, city staff has had to “sharpen the pencil” as the saying goes. Revenue from Building Permits and Development fees, State revenue sharing, Recreation fees and Interest income are all down. In addition, there are fewer sewer and water customers, especially commercial and industrial operations, because of the economy. Property Tax revenue declined by 10 to 12 percent, because of foreclosures and lower property appraisals. State sales tax, of which the city gets a cut, is also down. To balance the books salaries had to be frozen, 10 staff positions had to be eliminated, health insurance premium increases had to be passed onto employees and some services had to be reduced. This happened at a time when the local area was hit by the sinkhole issue back in January. The record freeze caused $1.7 million in damage to city roads, which were repaired by using funds planned for normal road repaving, the latter now delayed. In his report to local “movers and shakers”, Manager Horwedel says things are going to be “tight”. Additional cuts in operating expenses
will likely come in the following months but one thing will dominate the discussion. “Focus will be on preserving core services and legally required responsibilities”, says Horwedel. That includes the main responsibility of any city, Public Safety, i.e. Police and Fire. With most of the City Commission looking on, the City Manager outlined one project that, in spite of the negative economy, Plant City hopes to soon get off the ground. That is the mid-town area, encompassing the sites of Stock Lumber, Gro-Mor, the former police headquarters and other properties around Collins, Evers and Wheeler, that it has purchased and has a Master Plan to have investors develop in the near future. When the economy grows-more, pardon the pun, the city government wants to see amix of residences and family businesses in this corridor that will attract more people to the area, just off the downtown. It could be a major boost to the local economy and bring more life back to the center of Plant City. In the meantime, Plant City is not standing still. There are still projects being started or completed, including further improving the corner of Jim Redman and Alexander, the biggest traffic problem for the city. (We are lucky when you think of the nightmares in North Tampa and throughout Brandon) The city and county are planning road widening and traffic signals around Airport and Turkey Creek Roads, to which many will say “thank goodness”. There is also a plan afoot to rebuild Wheeler Street, which has long been a problem with basically a residential street handling too much commercial traffic. For developers, there is good news in the form of lower Impact Fees, charged when a new building, commercial or residential, is started. With that news, Plant City residents can wipe their hands across their brows and sing Hallelujah.
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extra ken lawrence
Still the Best Around!
A Report on Venerable Walden Lake S u b m i t t e d by k e n l aw r e n c e
A drive around the Tampa Bay area these days will take you into many communities that are either abandoned or in a state of disrepair. The economy is partly to blame for this state of affairs but it’s not just a matter of dollars and cents. Pride of ownership has a great deal to do with how a subdivision shows itself and that is where the subject of our story comes-in. Walden Lake has been around since the early 1980’s and nearly 30 years later, is still one of the best in the entire Tampa Bay region. FOX 13 veteran anchor John Wilson has often referred to Walden Lake as “tony”, or fashionable and that it has remained all these years. Not bad for a community that nearly became another phosphate mine back in the 60’s. The Swift meat packing company of Chicago owned many acres of Plant City and were it not for the fact that geological tests found the phosphate too deep to mine profitably, Plant City would probably look like Bartow today. Sorry Bartow, no offence! The secret to the success of any community is to have residents who care and most of the people who live in the 2,241 homes in Walden Lake, take care of their residences and look out for their neighbors. Walden Lake is a Deed Restricted community, which some people refuse to live-in, claiming it’s an infringement on their liberty. Au contraire, as the French expression goes. Deed Restricted communities add to the value of a neighborhood, preventing such things as home owners not maintaining their lawns, not painting the homes or doing so
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with outlandish colors, changing oil in their driveways, parking commercial vehicles, R/V’s and boats all over the place and many other infractions. Since the beginning, Walden Lake has always had a strong Home Owners’ Association (HOA). Initially, the main builder, Florida Design Communities, now WCI, operated the HOA until 75% of the community was sold. This is standard practice in any Deed Restricted community. It was then turned-over to the home owners who elected a Board of Directors, some of whom have served practically from the beginning. One person who really deserves credit and who just recently retired, is Bob Williamson. Your writer, who began the column “Walden Lake Review” several years ago, found Bob to be a ‘font of knowledge’ about Walden Lake and Plant City. Today’s Board is headed by Jan Griffin, a long time President, Tom Daramus Manager and Marlene Merrin, Administrative Assistant and Rules and Regulations Enforcer. Marlene will not bang on your door to tell you this or that rule has been broken. She’ll send you a polite letter explaining the situation. If you ignore it after three letters, legal action in the form of a Lien on your property could be taken. As far as the records show, that has only happened one time. Jan Griffin tells FOCUS, in an exclusive interview, that it always feels so good to drive in any of the four entrances of Walden Lake and see the trees, flowers, general landscaping, the Lake, Ponds and Children’s Park, to name just a few
of the amenities. Jan, by the way, is a gardening expert and offers her knowledge as to what plants will do best in the hot days of summer. The landscaping bill is $325,000 for 2010 and anyone who appreciates life in Walden Lake will tell you that “It’s worth every penny”. Manager Tom Daramus, who is also a Walden Lake resident, runs a “tight ship” and is always available night or day to answer any questions or complaints. To show how diligent a person Tom is, after Hurricane Jeanne finally passed through Plant City in 2004, your writer grabbed his camera and headed out to capture pictures of the damage. Someone beat me. I arrived on Timberlane Drive where fallen trees had blocked the road and there was Tom Daramus trying to clear the road. This was well beyond the call-to-duty. Now residing in a permanent office on Griffin Blvd East, the HOA has saved thousands
through a one-time charge of $90. per household to pay for the construction, thus saving on rent. In recent years the HOA has built a DOG PARK at the Polo Field, with almost $20,000 in donated funds. While there are still people walking their dogs and do not pick up the waste, the Park is slowly becoming an attraction for pet owners. As for the “doggie do-do” offenders, a reminder that this is a municipal offence, subject to a fine. So be warned! The Walden Lake HOA has a committee working on a variety of suggestions about how to best utilize the Polo Field, including baseball, softball and soccer venues. It all comes down to money and that has been a problem in the past couple of years with many thousands of dollars of dues outstanding because of economic conditions. In spite of that, the annual fees will remain the same for 2010. So the next time you are out for a drive, bike ride, jog, or walk, take a moment, breathe the fresh air, look about you and be thankful you live in such a wonderful community as Walden Lake.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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entertainment dining profile
ABC Pizza by W e n dy S . B r o w n
There is a true gem of a restaurant in Plant City, and it is owned by a very gracious and humble man. ABC Pizza House is an absolute fixture in Plant City. It is located at the intersection of Alexander and Reynolds Streets, close to South Florida Baptist Hospital. ABC offers the best of two different world cuisines, Italian and Greek. This family owned establishment has been serving the Plant City community and surrounding area since 1977 at the same location. Ted Fotoboulas and his family originated from Greece. They immigrated to Connecticut to join their grandfather in 1965. Growing up learning to love cooking, Ted, his brothers, and other family members started the ABC Pizza House chain in Connecticut. Wanting to share their Greek heritage and specialty dishes, yet believing most Americans preferred Italian dishes and pizza paved the way for the best of both worlds at their family restaurant. Eventually the four Connecticut stores were sold. In 1974, family members moved to sunny Florida and opened the South Manhattan location in Tampa, then, also in Tampa, the West Hillsborough restaurant, and their third ABC Pizza in Plant City opened in 1977. There are now a total of fourteen ABC’s in Florida. Did you know that the building housing ABC used to be a Royal Castle burger eatery? Ted Fotoboulas bought the empty building, which was 1300 square feet, then expanded to 5500 square feet. You and one hundred and thirty-five of your closest friends
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can enjoy Plant City’s favorite pizza. Where there is ABC, there is “Always Better Crust.” Did you know ABC bakes more than one thousand pizzas, makes twelve hundred Greek salads, bakes over six thousand of their delicious rolls, and sells more than one thousand spaghetti dinners per week? That’s a lot of spaghetti, and requires at least twelve cases of pasta! The staff arrives at six in the morning to make the restaurant’s homemade specialties. The pizza dough, sauces, Greek salad, potato salad, house dressing, rolls, pasticcio, and lasagna are homemade daily. The lettuce is shredded fresh in house. All cheeses are grated in the morning. Of course your pizzas and grinders are made for your order. With so much fresh and homemade goodness, no wonder ABC Pizza House has such a wonderful following. Frequent customers, Eddie and Doris Gonzalez, love the Mediterranean pizza and the Greek salad. At ABC Pizza House you can feast on gourmet pizza, baked spaghetti topped with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, plus chicken or shrimp scampi with feta, tomatoes, broccoli and mushrooms served over linguini with garlic butter sauce. The Greek salad is “a meal in itself ” with lettuce, tomato, feta cheese, ham, Greek peppers and olives. The spinach pie, the exotic Hellenic appetizer, Gyro sandwich, pasticcio, and baklava are Greek specialties. The most requested items are first pizza, then Greek salad, pasta specials, meatball grinder, chicken Parmesan grinder, and then gyros.
According to patron Harry Bishop, “ABC has the best spaghetti in town!” Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and all day Sunday you can enjoy all-you-can-eat spaghetti with meatballs, sausage, mushroom, or meat sauce for only $5.55. The Friday special is lasagna, or chicken or veal Parmesan dinner with tossed salad and a roll for $8.25. Come and enjoy the family atmosphere
with great food and homemade hospitality!
ABC Pizza 114 Alexander Street (813) 752-5146 Open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days Children’s menu available Credit cards accepted
ABC Pizza, 114 Alexander Street. Photo by Wendy Brown
Happy 9th
Birthday Coleman!
We have been so proud of you this year! In school you rocked the boat with winning 3rd grade Science Olympics and represented at Mosi!, Nothing ever less than Honor Roll, You have proven you will always be a good friend and made top three with your Science Project! In Sports you have made us proud being a part of the Bulldogs and getting ready for the Redskins again! In personal triumph you have learned some pretty hard life lessons, and still have a handsome smile on your face. In your 4H you have proven you can take on a new project and blossom! You are an awesome showman! You give 100% in all you do. God Bless You We Love you! Your Family!
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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entertainment red rose
Lola and the Saints Pack the House by K e l l e i g h K l e i n
The Red Rose Inn and Suites has something for everyone when it comes to great dining and entertainment. On Saturday, May 29th the dining room boasted a full house of guests with individuals of all ages celebrating special occasions like anniversary’s, birthdays, and graduations. Other guests were simply enjoying a fun night out with friends or a romantic evening with that special someone. In the Polo Club Lounge guests enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere with cocktails at the bar or at one of the side tables while socializing or watching one of two big screen televisions showing the Tampa Bay Rays game or news network. The main dining room featured two bands while patrons enjoyed a 5-star dining experience with food impeccably prepared by Chef Casini and his team. Wine from the expansive list of labels available was paired to meals for the perfect compliment. The formally dressed wait staff moved quickly and efficiently to seat guests, take food orders and present meals in a very friendly and timely manner. Guests could be seated at cozy tables for two as well as tables or for parties of four or more. Tables are arranged to provide great stage visibility and as easy access to the dance floor. The smooth sounds of the house band, Destiny opened and closed the evening of entertainment. The trio played classic favorites like “Stuck on You” by Lionel Richie and “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” by the Righ-
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teous Brothers. The acoustics allowed the music to be a perfect complement to an evening of dining, conversation and dancing. The main entertainment for the evening was the legendary Lola and the Saints. Their reflection back in time 50’s and 60’s doo wop style of music had people reminiscing, singing, and dancing on a packed dance floor to slow romantic ballads as well as to hip hop tunes. Lola made her way through the audience, charming guests while singing to and with them. Star struck fans snapped photos of their friends or loved ones posed with Lola capturing memories of a perfect evening. Lola and the Saints originated in Bronx, New York in 1964. The group has evolved through difference styles of music, but their original roots and current music features their famous Doo Wop style. Members of the band include Lola Foy, the only female of the group performing many of the lead vocals; Tom Foy, also known as Mr. Wizard has a powerful tenor voice and shares the vocal lead spotlight; Jim McGreevey, referred as Mr. Doo Wop wowed the audience with his strong baritone vocals; Tony Torre, known as the Tenor Vocalist Extraordinaire added flare to each song; and Jerry Long known as Mr. Bass Man rounded out the quintet. The group is known for singing crowd favorites like “The Door Medley”, “Why Do Fools Fall In Love”, “Tears on My Pillow” and “Don’t Say Goodnight” just to
name some of their great hits. Dress for the evening ranged from glamorous cocktail dresses, suits and ties to casual khaki pants and polo shirts. There was a nice variety of dinner menu selections and pricing for meals
was very affordable. Photos from the evening as well as information on upcoming concerts are posted at the Red Rose Inn and Suites web site (www.redroseinnandsuites.com).
Doug Driggers is charmed by the singing talents of Lola Foy. Photo by Kelleigh Klein
Jerry Long, Tony Torre, Jim McGreevey, Tom Foy and lead, Lola Foy make up the Doo Wop sensation Lola and the Saints. Photo by Kelleigh Klein
Lola and the Saints perform at the Red Rose Inn and Suites to a packed house. Photo by Kelleigh Klein
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I think ZUMBA is for you! Your ZUMBA instructor Patty Sanchez invites you to come party with us at live ZUMBA class. Not a gym - no contracts, just dancing for fun and fi tness. ZUMBA is designed for everyone, every shape and age. It is easy to follow, exciting, and effective - no experience required!
ZUMBA WITH PATTY $6 per class MON & WEDS 6:30 PM PLANTEEN RECREATION CENTER 301 DORT STREET PLANT CITY, FL 33563 TUES & THURS 6:30 PM & SAT 9:00AM STARDUST DANCE STUDIO (1405 South Collins Street, Plant City, Big Lots shopping center) 813-516-4731 or patrieug66@hotmail.com
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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entertainment artist of the month
Artist Opens Ups Her Wings and Flies by H e at h e r D av i s
While exploring Plant City ’s first Downtown Art Walk sponsored by the members of the Art Lounge Gallery, I found myself drawn to the artist on the corner. She was hard to miss as she was surrounded by brightly painted butterflies that seemed to fly out of the canvas at you. Captivated I had to find out more about Jennifer Magann, the artist and the reason for her butterflies. The Downtown Art Walk was the first event like this that Jennifer had ever participated in. With her encouraging family by her side she expressed that being a part of the art walk was an amazing experience creating a feeling of being one with everything. Along with that came the satisfaction of being able to meet so many people locally and share with them her art. As a child, Jennifer was always encouraged to create art. Her mother would use the summers away from school as an opportunity to enroll
her in art programs of her choice from painting with acrylics and watercolors to oriental art and pottery on the wheel. As a result Jennifer has carried with her an appreciation and love for art throughout her life that she also shares with her daughter. Jennifer finds many chances for expression and draws inspiration from nature, yoga, playing guitar, surfing, and riding her motorcycle. As for the reason for the butterflies, call it a chance at rebirth or recreation. After a divorce Jennifer began painting and created an art room in her house. At first her paintings were expressive of her moods and feelings at the time. But, gradually she began to paint butterflies and they kept coming. Before a butterfly becomes a butterfly is has to come out of its cocoon and experience a rebirth. In her life and through her painting this is exactly what Jennifer has done.
This painting is called “Splat�. My dear friend aptly describes it as a bug on a windshield. Some days in life are like that. Photo by Jonathan Davis
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My Giant Butterfly...she stretches her wings as far as she can. She is full of life, beauty, and perfectly imperfect. Photo by Jonathan Davis
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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813-786-1541 foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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entertainment calendar mondaY, June 28th
thursdaY, June 17th
5:15 PM - Business After Hours hosted by The Cottage In Plant City Location: 1308 South Collins Street
saturdaY, June 19th
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 Juneteenth Culture Fest 2010 at Sam Cooper Lake Park, 912 East Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. This event goes on from 10 AM to 8 PM. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. For more information call Dee Sears at 863-8088926 or Sharon Moody at 813-453-7134. Verizon Wireless Family Fun Days at their store, 2909 James L. Redman Parkway. Call Cathi Bell at 813-7648202 for more information. George Galfo’s Mystics plus PJ Leary perform at The Red Rose Inn & Suites. Original founder member, George Galfo brings his
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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.
sundaY, June 20th
FATHER’S DAY. All father’s will be admitted free to Dinosaur World.
mondaY, June 21th
Vacation Bible School begins at Trinity United Methodist Church located at 402 W English St. VBS is free and is from 5:30pm to 8pm for children, adults, youth and families. Register online at www.pctumc.org or call 813752-9316.
fridaY, June 25th
Destiny performs at The Red Rose Inn and Suites Destiny entertains Thursday, Friday and Saturday night each week in the Red Rose Dining Room and Polo Club Lounge!
saturdaY, June 26th
Pregnancy Care Center Tea of Significance at Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin Road. Gets underway at 11 AM. For more information call the Center at 813-759-0886.
Vacation Bible School begins at the First Presbyterian Church located at 404 W. Reynolds St. June 28-July 2 9 a.m.-12 p.m. daily, age 4- 5th Grade. Call 813-752-4211 for more information.
wednesdaY, June 30th
Free Safe Baby Sitter Course at The Network, 639 East Alexander Street, Plant City. You must be at least 11 years old to take this course. This teaches you how to be a successful babysitter. Call 813-870-4747 to sign up and for additional details.
thursdaY, JulY 1st
The long-awaited dedication of the Plant City Veterans Memorial Monment is set to take place on Thursday, July 1 st. at Courier Field which is just North of downtown on Wheeler Street. The dedication will be from 2 to 4 PM.
thursdaY, JulY 1st
6:30 PM at the Bruton Memorial Library the film JAWS will be shown. See the big shark on the big screen. Can you believe this film is 35 years old? Is it safe to go back in the water? For more information, call the Library at 813-757-9215.
fridaY, JulY 2nd
2 PM at the Bruton Memorial Library a program by Lynn Barber, Master Gardner with the Hillsborough County
Extension Service will show you how to set up a rain barrel and use the chemical free water to irrigate your landscape. You will also receive a certificate for a free rain barrel. For more information, call the Library at 813-757-9215.
fridaY, JulY 2nd
Johnny Alston’s Motown Revue plus PJ Leary at The Red Rose Inn & Suites Johnny Alston’s Motown Revue. PJ Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show.
saturdaY, JulY 3rd
Bike Fest in downtown Plant City. Come and look over all the motorcycles. Starts at 5 PM.
saturdaY, JulY 10th
Johnny Alston’s Motown Revue plus PJ Leary at The Red Rose Inn & Suites Johnny Alston’s Motown Revue. PJ Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show.
tuesdaY, JulY 13th.
11:00 AM at the Bruton Memorial Library the book discussion centers around the Tom Dorsey novel “Gator A-Go-Go”. And on Thursday, July 22 nd. Tim Dorsey will appear in person to share some pretty wild stories. For more information, call the Library at 813-757-9215.
entertainment calendar thursdaY, JulY 15th
saturdaY, JulY 17th
5:15 PM - Business After Hours hosted by D.R. Horton at Whispering Woods Location: 2756 Walden Woods Drive
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
fridaY, JulY 16th
Cover to Cover plus PJ Leary at The Red Rose Inn & Suites Cover to Cover and PJ Leary and The Las Vegas Sounds in the Dining Room
fridaY, JulY 16th & 17th
fanciful desserts!
everY mondaY
at The Red Rose Inn & Suites Learn to Dance with Susan 7 to 9 PM. Learn an easy, fun and fast method to start dancing with any partner on any dance floor. No partner needed. Call 863-604-5060 (small fee)
all the trimmings! All this plus salads and desserts to tempt the most demanding pallates! Music from Free Time Jazz.
everY thursdaY
at The Red Rose Inn & Suites Singles Night Out Happy Hour, Dance Contest, Bottle of Wine and $50 Gift Card Giveaway PLUS music from Destiny and either Mellissa Malone or Tony Johnson.!
everY tuesdaY & wednesdaY
ongoing events:
Plant City Entertainment will present the play BOYFRIEND at 8 PM. This will take place in their new location, 101 North Thomas Street. There will also be a matinee at 2 PM on Sunday, July 18.
Georgia peach glazed ham. Sweet potato casserole, crisp salad creations and a host of
everY sundaY at The Red Rose Inn & Suites Sunday Champagne Brunch Enjoy complimentary mimosas with prime rib and
Submit your Event to FOCUS
at The Red Rose Inn & Suites Prime Rib & Seafood Buffet Enjoy baked, broiled, steamed, and fried seafood including lightly battered fried shrimp. Succulent steamed crab legs, even tender prime rib au jus with
email: editorial@floydpublications.com
5 days/4 nights in Puerto Rico at Rincon Beach Resort for 2 adults.
Rincon Beach Resort is one of the most unique and interesting Resort Hotels in Puerto Rico. The Rincon Beach Resort is the closest of Puerto Rico hotels and tourism attractions to the towns of Mayaguez and Aguadilla. An intimate, four star ocean front, boutique resort hotel located at Almirante Beach on the Western Coast of Puerto Rico, near the sleepy town of Rincon, where surfers enjoy world class surfing. Deep sea fishing, whale watching and kayaking are some of the many water sport activities. Snorkeling, scuba diving excursions are available to nearby Desecheo Island, a divers paradise. Rincon, Puerto Rico is also famous as a wind surfing and wave sailing, tourism destination. An unforgettable getaway!
TEXT: “focus” to 32075 or Register Online at www.myfocustv.com Winner Will Be Announced July 10th
Contest Sponsored By Travel By Horizon Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST37022 Iowa Seller of Travel #885 California Seller of Travel 2091216-40
his his trip trip is is applicable applicable for for two two adults adults minimum minimum of of 21 21 years years of of age age departing departing Sunday Sunday through through Tuesday. Tuesday. Availability Availability is is limited limited during during peak peak seasons seasons and and major major holidays holidays which which include include New New Year�s Year�s Day, Day, Presidents Presidents Day, Day, Easter, Easter, Memorial Memorial Day, Day, Independence Independence Day, Day, Labor Labor Day, Day, Columbus Columbus Day, Day, Thanksgiving Thanksgiving Day Day and and Christmas. Christmas. Peak Peak seasons seasons may may vary. vary. AA $50 $50 refundable refundable reservation reservation deposit deposit is is required. required. Reservation Reservation deposit deposit will will be be applied applied towards towards travel travel fees fees and and taxes taxes at at the the time time of of booking; booking; any any remaining remaining balance balance will will be be fully fully refunded refunded by by check check approximately approximately 10 10 days days prior prior to to confirmed confirmed reservation reservation departure departure date. date. The The $50 $50 refundable refundable reservation reservation deposit deposit may may be be requested requested for for return return at at any any time time prior prior to to confirmation. confirmation. Deposit Deposit will will not not be be refunded refunded ifif guests guests fail fail to to appear appear on on aa confirmed confirmed reservation. reservation. Guests Guests are are responsible responsible for for all all charges charges incurred incurred in in excess excess of of the the certificate, certificate, such such as as but but not not limited limited to: to: all all taxes, taxes, ground ground transportation, transportation, airfare, airfare, airline airline security security fees, fees, airline airline surcharges, surcharges, hotel hotel security security fees, fees, and and hotel hotel surcharges. surcharges. Meals, Meals, incidentals incidentals and and gratuities gratuities are are also also not not included. included. Hotel Hotel taxes taxes are are guaranteed guaranteed not not to to exceed exceed $35 $35 per per night. night.
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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entertainment crossword A L A D
R A D A R A R E A
B O L T
A L O T
M E W S
W E N T F R O M D A D G U R U
M E K A T G O N B S A
S A Y D A D O L R T M N O I L F K L D I O A L P D Y S R H I T O O E L T A Y S L L A L I B I S E E A L
D A D P O S L E E E S G D O O A N D S S S M I O R K E D
T A R E O M E L W E A L O L L A R I M S A A E B U T O G D O G A D S D O I M B R I A I N E T S T E S O G D N R E S A L V A D E A K O T L I N E
S E T T H E W I B I S I N L G A F M O O A R I D O L A S D D S I G R E A S H L A A R D D A S D
L E A P
E N D O R
G E A G M O E S S F L I O R R S D D Z A A D N Y
T S A T E J A V E R E B O K R A O R T Y Z A E V E R I D A S N A G O GM A P R U F F A S I A N E R D O D E S S N E O WO L F R T O F Y A N
A Day for Dad
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A Day For Dad P r o v i d e d by C a lv i n & J a ck i e M at h e w s
A DAY FOR DAD
ACROSS 1. Tableland 5. Biblical weeds 10. Acquires 14. Father’s favorite insect? 17. Breakfast order 19. Playing marble 21. Venice transport 22. Riches 23. California desert 25. Org. for youth 26. Bus svc., in some cities 27. Earthenware jar 28. Wool bearers 30. Johnny __ 31. L followers 32. Edge 33. Wading bird 34. Pod plant 35. Regal visitors 38. Bones: Latin 40. A __ apple... 41. # of Lenten days 42. Hebrew month 43. Hightail it 44. Eur. nation 45. Judy’s eldest 46. Toil 47. Majors, for one 48. Forum wear 49. Eternally 52. Film locations 54. Boxer, for one 55. Boggy areas 57. __ Lupino 58. Mont Blanc, e.g. 59. __ about; roams purposelessly 60. Parched 61. Obstacle 62. Boisterously indecent 65. Blockhead 66. False deity 67. Religious tenet 68. Uranium & gold 69. Meander 70. Undergarments 71. Microwave 72. Dykstra, to pals 73. India’s official language 74. Assistance 75. Father’s flakes? 79. Indelible marks 81. Hair coverings 83. Sermon topic 84. Home to 4 billion 85. Sensed 86. Geneviève and Thérèse: abbr. 87. Writer Zane 88. Bookish kid 89. Fine display 91. Bad air 92. Run 93. Keatsian works 94. Vientiane’s location 95. Jungle beast 96. Faith: abbr.
97. 100. 101. 102. 103. 104. 107. 109. 111. 113. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118.
Pub orders Four-star nav. rank Songbird Juan’s living room Cartoon pooch Modern: pref. Improvise, fatherstyle? Steered clear of See 18 Down Employee’s delight North __ Make __; ridicule Business transaction Like a classy coat Tatum’s dad
DOWN 1. Red leader and others 2. Explosive mount 3. __ Barrett; founding member of Pink Floyd 4. Decorate 5. See 64 Down 6. __ Earhart 7. Kingdom 8. “First Lady of Jazz” 9. Ready-go connector 10. Magazine title 11. Senses of self-esteem 12. __ Mahal 13. With 67 Down, father in a frenzy? 14. ’54-’91 Sov. Sec. agcy. 15. Choir member 1
2
3
4
14
15
16
26
5
10
6
7
8
9 18
36
38
42
43
46
47
52
49
83
96
108 113
102 109
110
114 116
77
78
104
105
106
84 88
92
101
107
75
87
95
100
76
57
67
82
91
51
71
86
90
50
61
74 81
94
56
60
70
85
24 30
66
80
20
41
55
73
79
13
45
54
69
72
12
34
48
65
68
11
29
40
59
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92. 95. 96. 98. 99.
33
39
53
83. 86. 87. 89. 90. 91.
Part of the eye See 13 Down Tumult Night fliers Bananas Sacred Determined folks Secondhand Blaze Passing fashions Afternoon socials Brain wave test: abbr. Pensioners: abbr. Like ham, usually See 91 Down “When I was __...” “M*A*S*H” role With 87 Down, father’s favorite knight? Take out Can wrapper Heavy gas Jump Forest moon in “Star Wars” __ Marie Presley Japanese drink __ bene __ University, NC Mistaken Whopper Mr. Kilmer Twisted
19
44
58 63
28
32
37
66. 67. 69. 70. 71. 73. 75. 76. 77. 78. 80. 82.
23
27
31
89
101. 102. 104. 105. 106. 108. 110. 112.
22
25
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16. Father’s tiny amphibians? 18. With 111 Across, father’s favorite fairy tale villain? 20. Chris of tennis 24. Auction site 29. Take the prize 31. Father’s favorite candy? 33. Father’s favorite Pakistani city? 34. Flow out slowly 35. Feline comments 36. “Thanks __!” 37. Respected teacher 39. Notice 40. Calendar abbr. 41. Evergreens 43. Fail completely 44. Marshes 45. British nobleman 48. Type of list 49. Saran alternative 50. Dutch export 51. Indian music pattern 53. Suffix for luck or hand 54. Father’s favorite sport? 56. Acapulco golds 59. Incite 61. High voices 62. Leave suddenly 63. Neighborhood 64. With 5 Down, how father deteriorated? 65. Puts on
17
21
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by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews
93 97
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© 2009 Puzzle Features Syndicate
Summer
Music Lessons School of Music & Arts A Ministry of Plant City’s First Baptist Church
June 28—August 6 $116 (6 weeks) Lessons available for the following instruments: piano, cello, drums, guitar, trumpet, violin & viola New this summer: Sewing Class for Older Children and Teens Registration is now in progress. For more information, call the School of Music & Arts at 813-750-4878 •Plan ahead to register for the Fall Semester! Aug. 23 - Dec. 10th. Fall registration begins on Aug. 9th School of Music & Arts A Ministry of Plant City’s First Baptist Church
Deese Scrubs
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Plant City - Main Office, 102 W. Baker St., 752-6193 Walden Woods, 2400 Redman Parkway, 754-1844 Brandon, 420 W. Brandon Blvd., 689-1271 Riverview, 7459 Highway 301 S., 677-7102 Zephyrhills, 36450 Eiland Boulevard, 782-9593
foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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congratulates Jim Scott and the staff of
for winning the prestigious
2009 Ford Presidential Award
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foCUS Magazine Plant City june 2010
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