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january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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table of contents
January 2011 volume 10 issue 1
Publisher Mike Floyd Office Manager Dede Floyd Credit Manager Angel Carter Copy Editor Cheryl Johnston
Family of Community Magazines
advertising director Brent Simmons Sales Sophia Hyde Holly Far mer Julie Hasting Erik Butler Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena FOCUSTV Brandon Hyde Kelleigh Klein
ontheCOVER
George
Sorensen Executive Director of the Brandon Family YMCA
15 FOCUS Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa
FOCUSTV
MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories
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44
51
Distribution Byron Spradlin Belva DeVane
william thomas
photo by stephanie humphrey photography
LOCAL
Celebrations, royalty, and, the International Softball Federation tournament are the focal point of this month’s local stories. From the Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe, to an exciting ISF women’s sporting competition, and from news of Queens and Junior Royalty, Plant City has been one busy town.
feature
OK, Focus Readers, put on your school caps and enjoy this wonderful history lesson about the African American Experience in Plant City in honor of Black History Month. If you value education, you will appreciate the contributions made by the diligent and industrious in the community of Bealsville to life throughout our city and nation. These citizens were definitely difference makers.
SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW
Meet William Thomas, the civic-minded gentleman who has worked with the Improvement League in our city since 1993. As a fourth generation Plant City native, he fully understands the power and purpose in “giving back” to the community and its caring people.
business profile
Do not, we repeat, do not fail to visit the Sunrise Homes model at Walden Pointe. This premier builder/developer builds “Homes for a Lifetime” with custom details and designs at prices everyone can afford.
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
92
dining profile
Cheryl and Hany Hosny, owners of Westshore Pizza, invite you to try some of the best “fun food” in town, and our own restaurant reviewer, John Ross, totally agrees. Bring the family, play some games, and savor the flavor. You’ll be back!
12 - Talk of the Town 32 - Did You Know? 34 - Plant City Chamber of Commerce
63 - Home Guide 76 - Athlete Of The Month 84 - Al Reuchel 87 - Derek Maul
90 - Auto Review 92 - Dining Guide 104 - Event Calendar 108 - Just For Fun
Photographers Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser Stephanie Humphrey Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West Joe Bowles Derek Maul Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis Laura Estes Dan Conrod Kristi Linbaugh Heather Davis Ken Lawrence Megan Braglin Brittany Cer ny contributors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis
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.
702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990
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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
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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.
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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.
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The Florida Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons The American Society of Dental Anesthesiologists The Florida Dental Society of Anesthesiology
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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
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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 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
Wisdom teeth / Other extractions
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 january 2011
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letter from the publisher
L
ast January I wrote my letter from the publisher about goal setting. I shared that I had started a dream board and in 2010 wanted to hone in on where I was taking my life. I would have to say that it worked. By constantly reminding myself of what I wanted in the long run, I was able to look at every small decision to be made and ask “is this going to get me closer to a goal?” If not, it was a distraction. In retrospect, I believe that this year I was better than usual at looking at my long-term goals and saying no when I needed to.
eling e F e u q i Bout ices r P t n e m Consign Featuring It’s A Lot Alike Designer Inspired Jewelry
However, as I look into 2011 I am doing a lot of refocusing on my business. Any business owner is constantly analyzing how to become more effective. One way to do that is to create a stronger bond amongst the staff. If everyone in the company is passionate about the product they are producing, committed to working hard, and able to work as a team, the entire company is more successful. As they say “a rising tide lifts all boats.” For this year, our staff came up with the idea to take on 11 adventures in 2011. We are in the process of mapping out 11 out-of-the-box things to do together that we otherwise wouldn’t experience. A few items on the list are getting scuba diving certified, sky diving, driving a racecar, barrel racing and several more. Not only is this list inspirational on an individual level, but we will be a stronger team by experiencing them all together. This month our spotlight interview is with William Thomas. William is a fourth-generation Plant City resident who left fingerprints on this community that will last many generations to come. When it comes to teamwork and adventure, make sure you read Willie’s interview. Few of us will ever see or experience as much as he did in his years as an Army soldier in Vietnam, a Military Police Sergeant, a CID Special Agent, a Warrant Officer, and finally ending in the forensic sciences as the Chief of the division in Europe. After he retired in 1993 from his military work he came back home to Plant City working for the Hillsborough County Sherriff ’s Office and jumped right into the community. He has since worked other careers in the meantime. I cannot even begin to list everything he has done in the last twenty years, but let’s just say he hasn’t slowed down. He is heavily involved in the Improvement League, the Martin Luther King Jr. Festival, and many other local organizations. If you took the time to read my letter than you would be doing yourself an injustice to not flip through a few more pages and meet this wonderful individual in our community. Following the interview with William is an in-depth feature supplied by the Plant City Photo Archives covering black history in Plant City. It’s simply amazing to read the stories they share and get a small glimpse into what has occurred over the last 100 years to make Plant City the community it is today. I’m sure that reading Gil Gott’s feature story this month will teach you something you didn’t already know about our past. I hope that reading these stories will not only enlighten you on the heritage of the black community in Plant City, but will also challenge you to look into your own futures to see what kind of legacy you want to leave behind. Maybe you should create your own adventure list for the coming year….
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
11
Local » talk of the town
n w o t k tal
plant city’s
of the
WN TO: Submit your TALK OF THE TO .com editorial@floydpublications
Jordan Prestwood to go to FSU. Coach Jimbo Fisher, Coach Rick Trickett, and Coach Lawrence Dawsey from FSU visited the home of Plant City High School senior Jordan Prestwood to sign the letter of intent to play for FSU, and to meet all the family.
Built Ford Tou gh collegiate scholarship pr ogram
Congratulations Jordan Prestwood, Plant City High School Senior
Jarrett Scott Fo rd, in conjunctio n with Ford Mo Company, is sp tor onsoring the Bu ilt Ford Tough collegiate scho larship program for Plant City School and Du High rant High Scho ol. For the 2010school year, th 2011 ey are helping 2 local student(s attend the colle ) ge of their choic e.
ub Plant City Garden Cl
To be eligible, FF A members mu st submit an on 2011 Scholarship line Application at www.ffa.org an take the requir d ed Signature Pa ge to Jarrett Sc Ford for the de ott aler endorsemen t and official de code; thus prov aler iding FFA memb ers the opponu to meet - and th nity ank - the deale r for their supp of continuing ed ort ucation.
rs the Plant City “’We’re pleased For more than 50 yea to be able to su its annual flower d pport the local chapter and Fo Garden Club has hel rd Motor Comp in aga l wil on ati loc any in its strong the r co yea is mm itm en show. Th t to th e National FFA”, Golf and Country “All our previou says Jim Scott. be the Walden Lake s scholarship The show recipients tell 11. 20 ho 3, ry w rua gra Feb te fu on us l they are for th Club . P.M e financial supp from 5:00 how the FFA ex or t and pe is free to the public rie nc e has changed th past it has been eir lives’” To 8:00 P.M. In the al loc ing lud ons inc held in various locati Federal, businesses banks such as First r building with the and their own forme their floral designs off ing ow members sh ure. The theme ult 2011 S and beautiful hortic trawb r giving new yea to r yea m fro erry P E changes veryo . ers mb me the to n s e nge arade alle ch loves in the excitement and a ds gar parad Re r 2 Ou e 0 Giv “ is 11 me e the ! S 2 r’s yea 0 t ra This Inter 11? Be ested rry F wberry will feature creative you. in par to Broadway” which ure Applic ine Produ Parade to ult rtic ticip ho l fu uti ction b Comm ations floral designs and bea s, LL e held Ma ating ay e adw r a Bro c s r ou e e C is fam rch 7 s l iou a a o var v t m a c fro il w a les l ab ted at oo ww , with tit ; 106 N le at the C king for is Frid .strawbe antom of the Opera . r h E r musicals such as Ph a a v y y Jan ers S mber parad re. mo ny in ma u e.com and treet form of ary 2 a Oklahoma; Lion King 813-7 tion pleas 1, 2011 at 4 . Applica or online ulture are judged 54-37 tion d :00 p e con The Designs and hortic .m 03 or ea t n of Garden Clubs email act Jodi S . For mo dline by Florida Federatio re mith jodism a . t ges it jud d h 425@ accredite gmail.c
om.
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january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
Local » talk of the town
Ronald McDonald House Charities Two Plant city High School students were recognized recently by Ronald McDonald House Charities and McDonald’s Restaurants of Tampa Bay as Scholarship Recipients: Dazmond Patterson and Brieann Cooper. The students were recognized for outstanding academic achievements and commitment to school and community. Both students will receive a two year Florida Prepaid Scholarship to use to start their college education. Pictured: Front Row: Kenyatta Shaw, Moth of Dazmond Patterson; Dazmond Patterson, Ronald McDonald, Brieann Cooper, Diane Thomas, grandmother to Dazmond Patterson. Back Row: Arthur Lamar, Uncle to Dazmond Patterson; Toni Griffin, PCHS Guidance counselor; Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor.
11 tary 2010-20 Daybreak Ro
atured Plant city fe ary Club of ub meeting. cl r ei Daybreak Rot th at to the ers recently ierrez spoke student lead and Ivan Gut er youth o m ad m uz su Cr at n Natha experiences r ei th nded the t te ou at o members ab athan Cruzad N ps y in ho ks or urn Universit leadership w erence at Aub r nf fo Co s nt rs ai de ff tu S World A ez attended rr ie ge ut lle G Co an n a Souther Alabama. Iv ers at Florid long ad k Le ee w ’s a w e ro er Tomor ences w e Both confer covered by th in Lakeland. udents were st e th r fo and expenses ary club. Daybreak Rot Chairman ike McMinn, to Right: M ft Cruzado, Le n ha : at ed N ur Pict Committee; on ti ec el S y of Rotar ez Ivan Gutierr
Antioch Critters Had Great Res ults at the Hillsborough Cou
nty Fair! Leader Rhonda Burnet te was proud of all her Critters! Cole Hanson~Supre me Grand Champion Ewe, 1st in Junior Sho Jacob Burnette~6th wmanship, 5th place place Swine, 1st Pla with his Swine ce Junior Showmans Anna Conrad~Won Int hip Beef Breed ermediate Showmans hip Swine, Grand & Madi Conrdad~2nd Pla Reserve Heifer ce Swine, Beef heifer classes 2nd, 3rd, & Daniel Paul~2nd Place 2nd Swine Dalton Mcmath~1st Place swine Macayla Phillips~ Res erve Champion Ewe, 2nd in Junior Showm Dalton Phillips~1st In anship Division Sheep Brittany Coleman~G rand Rare Ewe & Ram , 2nd in Senior Showm Ava Hasting ~PeeWee anship, 4th in Swine Swine and called back for Sammy Shiver~ PeeWe Showmanship e Swine Clayton Shiver~1st Pla ce Swine, Called bac k for Showmanship
Warm Jackets for Christmas
Julie Hasting an d Mrs. Linda Sm ith had a goal for all of Knights Elementa ry Head Start children to have warm jac kets and a great Christmas . On December 15th this goal was accomplis hed. Focus team ed up with the Rotary Club , Wal-Mart in Pl ant City and Austin and Laurato Law Fir m in Tampa to make sure of it. With all dona tions the children had a party with pres ents that included warm jackets, hand mi ttens, socks, and toys. What started out as a goal just for the childre n to be warm tu rned out to be quite a bles sing!
FOCUS Contest Winner
Rhondee Hardee presented Linda Chancey her free trip to Las Vegas! Linda re gistered for the Focus Deals program and wa s randomly selected as the winner this mo nth! Her trip includes a 3 Da y, 2 Night stay in Las Vegas with hotel and airfare provided. The next trip being given away is a 4 day, 3 night trip to an all inclusiv e resort in Canc un! If you would like to re gister, please vis it www. thefocusmagazin e.com and enter your email address and cell phone number to sign up for the Focus Deals program. Or you can text “focus” to 32075. foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
13
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Local » Focus
“
The girls had a great time and they represented Plant City wonderfully well.
Photo by Hannah Hodge
Inauguration Provides Unique Opportunity Queen and Court Attend Inauguration for Florida Governor Rick Scott Written By: Brian West
T
he life of the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court is a privileged one. To begin with, there is only one Queen, a First Maid and three Court Members. Each year, five young ladies are chosen from as many as 35 contestants, depending on the number of applicants, to represent the Florida Strawberry Festival and the greater Plant City area. So just to make the court is an accomplishment all its own. Once the Queen and Court are selected, their reign begins the next day. It’s a whirlwind tour that seems to be more unique from year to year, and the 2010 Queen and Court are no different. Although their year is coming to an end – officially ending on the evening of the 2011 Queen’s Scholarship Pageant (Saturday, February 5th), they’re still being treated like rock stars. Most recently, the Queen and Court were invited to attend the Inauguration of Governor Rick Scott
”
of the route in a position that allowed them to see most of the parade entries – including a couple of elephants. Now that’s something you don’t see everyday. When it was their turn, they were taken through the parade route in two red convertible Corvettes. Queen Natalie Burgin said, “This was the first time we’d flown on a private plane, so that was new. Meeting the Governor and Lieutenant Governor was great. They were both very kind to us.” Hodge said, “The girls had a great time and they represented Plant City wonderfully well.” When everything was finished, the girls were whisked back to the plane and headed home. They arrived back in town, to life in Plant City. There’s no doubt the girls had a wonderful time. As their reign comes to an end, they’ll always have these unique experiences to reflect on as moments that made their time representing us special.
in Tallahassee. Chaperone, Sandee Sytsma, couldn’t make the trip. But when Sytsma placed a call to Former Queen, Hannah Hodge (2006) to fill in as chaperone, Hodge quickly accepted. Hodge said, “It was a great opportunity and I was happy to help.” The morning of the Inauguration, they met at Fred’s Market and were escorted to Lakeland Linder Airport. Don Stine flew the Queen and Court to Tallahassee where they were picked up by a driver and taken into town for the parade. As they arrived on site, they learned a trailer had been provided for their use as a dressing room. At some point, while they were waiting to enter the parade route, the Queen and Court had the opportunity to meet Governor Scott and his wife, Ann. They also met Lieutenant Governor, Jennifer Carroll and her husband, Nolan. The young ladies were located on the side
Photo by Hannah Hodge
foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
15
Thank you Plant City for 4 Years in Business!
Owned and Operated by Steve and Kathy Paul
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Born and raised in Plant City, Kathy and Steve would love to serve your pest control needs. Servicing Hillsborough, West Polk, and Pasco Counties
L O V E We Buy Gold and Silver
We know they mean the world to you...
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Congrats Drew! We are so proud of you!
Love you lots!
-Mom, Dad, Regan, Jackson, Nanu and Maw
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michaels.cameron@lpl.com Photo by Stephanie Humphrey
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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Local Âť Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Contestants
florida strawberry festival
18
queen contestants
Ainsley Bowers
Amber Carapezza
Ashley McMath
Ashlie Scruggs
Caitlin Cribbs
Calli Jo Parker
Danielle O’Brien
Emily Funk
Erika Kelly
Erika Wardzinski
Jayne Berry
Kaitlyn Hartzog
Kaitlyn Messick
Kallee Cook
Kayla Stepp
january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
Local Âť Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Contestants
Kelley Lott
Kori Lane
Kourtney Otero
Kristen Smith
Laura Beasley
Megan Young
Regan Knotts
Riley Andreu
Somer Harvey
Summer Norris
Taylor Highland
Taylor Wiggs
Tori Shepherd
Victoria Garren
Victoria Watkins
foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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Local » Focus Hair Stylist, Massage Therapist, Esthetician Positions Available
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813.759.GALA
Knights Hosts Annual Elementary Red Ribbon Rally K Written By: Cheryl Johnston | Photo by: Lisa Care
nights Elementary students, parents, and school employees rallied for healthy lifestyle choices at their recent Red Ribbon Rally.
Photo by Of the Heart Photography
Local police, firefighters, Plant City High School cheerleaders and band percussionists, and the Tampa Bay Lightning Cheerleaders joined in the effort to drive home this important message. Knights guidance counselor Lisa Carlsen, who coordinates the annual event, said, “We do this to teach children at young ages the negative impact of drugs. I want students to take away from these lessons that they will live longer thru healthy living and have productive and successful lives by being DRUG FREE!”
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13.759.GALA FREEi
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813.759.GALA
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Congress established Red Ribbon Week in 1988 to honor a young Drug Enforcement Administration Agent named Enrique Camarena. He was kidnapped and killed in Mexico in 1985 after uncovering a multi-billion dollar drug scam, which might have involved the Mexican Army, police force and government. His beaten and tortured body was found about a month later buried in a shallow grave. This fight against drugs was one of the first times ribbons were used to support a cause.
Teachers then began to educate themselves in order to teach children the harmful effects of alcohol, smoking, and drugs. This year, Knights students were involved physically. PCHS drummers struck a beat for the march while all chanted “Say No to Drugs.” Blaring sirens affirmed the message. Breakout sessions at the October 29 event included: • School social worker, Mari Wilensky, exercised with Headstarters and kindergarteners to fun songs. • State of Florida nutritionist reviewed appropriate nutrition/exercise with 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders. • Mr Helms, a parent, worked with 4th graders on breathing techniques and simple workouts kids can do at home or while gaming. • From DACCO Drug Prevention Counselor, Mr. Idris, 5th graders learned how a tobacco-blackened, drug-weakened lung stops breathing. Carlsen appreciated the community’s support for the Red Ribbon Rally lessons she hopes will be lifelong.
“I Didn’t Want To Dig To China,
I Just Wanted To Tend To My Garden.” - Jane, age 65 Plant City
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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Local » Focus
Baroness Giselle Gutierrez, Queen Chelsea Talavera, Princess Drew Knotts and Duchess Daisy Duke. Photo by Stephanie Humphrey
New Junior Royalty Crowned T Written By: Kelleigh Klein
he 2011 Junior Royalty Pageant, sponsored by the Florida Strawberry Festival was held Saturday, January 8th in the TECO Expo Hall on the festival grounds. According to Florida Strawberry Festival Board of Directors President, Mike Sparkman, “The Junior Royalty Pageant marks the beginning of the Florida Strawberry Festival Season. The Festival is honored to have 120 young ladies participate in this event and we feel they are all winners.“ According to the rules of the pageant, female participants between the ages of 5 and 15 are eligible to compete for a spot on the Junior Royalty Court. The event is so popular that in order to participate, contestants are selected by a random lottery drawing in November. Thirty contestants are
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selected to compete in one of four categories: Baroness (5 – 6 years old), Duchess (7-9 years old), Princess (10-12 years old) and Queen (13-15 years old). Contestants are judged on three areas: Personality (25%), Overall Appearance (25%) and Natural Beauty and Smile (50%). When the field of contestants in each category is narrowed to the top ten, an onstage question is asked of each contestant. This year, in honor of the Festival’s theme of “Taste the Flavor of Fun,” contestants were asked what they do for fun at the Florida Strawberry Festival. The Junior Royalty Pageant Officials who coordinate and implement this successful event include Donna Keel (Chairman), Krystal Almon (CoChairman), Deana Moorman and Rebecca Robinson (Backstage Directors and Decorations). This team of highly
Mistresses of Ceremony Mrs. Kay Varnum and Mrs. Sandee Sytsma Photo by Stephanie Humphrey
Local » Focus organized and creative ladies has been working together for more than 10 years to ensure a very successful annual event. In fact, Donna Keel was the first Duchess crowned in the Junior Royalty Pageant in 1976. She says, “The first pageant had preliminary competition off the grounds at Tomlin. The top ten in each category would then compete for the royalty spots in each category at the Festival outside in the Entertainment Tent.” The team of Keel, Almon, Moorman and Robinson feel that the success of this pageant can be attributed to many factors. For one, their team of four works well together and has developed a successful routine implemented each year. For example, Krystal stated, “A lot of the pageant preparations are handled prior to the night of the event. Donna and I focus on those. The night of the pageant Deanna and Rebecca take over and focus on the girls, crowd and logistics. “Donna continues, “We work very well together and support one another in each of the tasks we are responsible for.” Others who were instrumental in the successful implementation of this year’s Junior Royalty Pageant include backstage security and Festival Associate Directors Billy Keel and Doug Driggers. Also, the pageant boasted the talented Mistresses of Ceremony team of Mrs. Kay Varnum and Mrs. Sandee Sytsma. Both are Associate Directors for the Florida Strawberry Festival. This year’s Junior Royalty Court includes Baroness Gisell Gutierrez. Gisell is the daughter of Andy and Dora Gutierrez. She is 6 years old and attends Bailey Elementary School. Duchess Daisy Duke, the daughter of Jack and Hollie Duke, is 7 years old and attends Cork Elementary School. Princess Drew Knotts is the daughter of Andy and Jeanne Knotts. She is 12 years old and attends Tomlin Middle School. This year’s Junior Royalty Queen Chelsea Talavera is the daughter of Deanna Shaw and Bobby and Angela Talavera. She is 15 years old and attends Plant City High School.
Queen Division Top Five: Caitlyn Short, Mylie Feaster, First Maid Caitlyn Kent, Queen Chelsea Talavera and Elizabeth Padilla. Photo by Stephanie Humphrey
Princess Division Top Five: Jamie Bertomeu, Ariel Navarre, Princess Drew Knotts, First Maid Deanna Rodriguez and Ashley Farmer. Photo by Stephanie Humphrey
Duchess Division Top Five: Cherish Glenn, Ashlyn Rogers, Duchess Daisy Duke, First Maid Tori Wegner and Gracie Hinton. Photo by Stephanie Humphrey
focustv - episode 93 check out full coverage of this event online at
www.myfocustv.com
Baroness Division Top Five: Madelynn Farmer, Amaya Diaz, Baroness Giselle Gutierrez, Kyleigh Glenn and First Maid Bailey Brock. Photo by Stephanie Humphrey foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
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Local » Focus The ISF Umpire Certification Seminar was a gathering of 28 umpires from ten nations, who were tutored in the classroom and on the field as they were examined and critiqued in hopes of qualifying to oversee ISF tournaments. Gold medalists Michele Smith and Ashley Charters conducted a clinic that was attended by international players from five different countries: Korea, Bahamas, Philippines, Russia, and Canada. According to ISF Director of Communications Bruce Wawrzyniak, the economic impact to the community by the Youth World Cup will be significant.
Photos courtesy of International Softball Federation
Brazil Claims ISF Youth World Cup Plant City Plays Hosts to International Softball Tournament
T
he year 2011 opened with Plant City in the spotlight as 22 teams from eight different countries met at the Plant City Stadium and the Randy L. Larson Softball Complex to compete in the International Softball Federation Youth World Cup. The tournament, for girls 16-and-under, saw Brazil defeat the South Florida Mini Bulls by a score of 3-2 on January 5 to claim the gold medal. The Mini Bulls from Tampa were awarded the silver. Puerto Rico defeated the Oviedo (Florida) Blaze by a score of 8-2 to claim the bronze.
Written By: Joe Bowles Goods, provided an umpire certification seminar that preceded the tournament and a skills clinic conducted by Olympic gold medalists held during the final days of the tournament.
The International Softball Federation (ISF), the governing body of softball internationally as recognized by the International Olympic Committee, located its world headquarters to Plant City from Oklahoma City in 2000. Since that time, Plant City has had the opportunity to host some of the most prestigious tournaments in the world. In May of 2008, the United States Women’s National Team played an exhibition game at the Plant City Stadium that served as a tune up to the Beijing Olympics held three months later. The ISF Youth World Cup and its primary sponsor, the Easton Foundation, a charitable arm of Easton Sporting
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Photos courtesy of International Softball Federation
“We will evaluate the economic impact to the community in the coming days,” said Wawrzyniak, “but we know that we were able to fill nearly all of the motel rooms in the area during the days preceding the tournament through its conclusion.” Wawrzyniak also boasted of the graciousness of the city, “While in town, the Plant City Chamber of Commerce invited Mike Fennell, President of the Jamaican National Olympic Committee and also the President of the Commonwealth Games to be their guest speaker at their monthly Chamber Breakfast.”
The first three days of the tournament consisted of pool play, followed by a single elimination format. Plant City was fortunate to have a local team qualify for the tournament, the Plant City Legends. The Legends actually emerged from pool play winning three of their contests, but fell to Orlando in the first round of bracket play. The Legends have two players from the Plant City High School team on their roster, Mackensie MacAvoy and Kristen Wyckoff. Following pool play, the teams were seeded according to their records into two separate brackets, International and Domestic. This would ensure that the gold medal game would have an international and a U.S. participant. The eventual winner, Brazil, didn’t fare very well in pool play, bringing a 2-3 record into the single elimination phase, but they promptly reeled off four consecutive victories, qualifying for the final against the South Florida Mini Bulls. The Mini Bulls carried an undefeated record of 8-0 into the championship game, before falling to the Brazilian squad 3-2.
Sponsor of the Coalition of Angry Kids foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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happy new year New Year’s is a time to reflect on the year past. It is also a time to set goals for the future, and Edward Jones can help you do just that. We’re in your neighborhood and available to help you take steps now to help meet your longterm financial goals. Call today to set up a complimentary portfolio review. Stephen W Shouse, Financial Advisor, AAMS 1514 S Alexander Street Suite 206 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9400 Tim Shuff, Financial Advisor, CFP 104 N Evers St Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1071 Luke Carvalho, Financial Advisor 2806 James L Redman Pkwy., Suite 201 Plant City, FL 33566 813-752-9765 30
january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
Carly Flynn, Financial Advisor 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1491
Local » Focus to Our Lady and to the Saint Juan Diego. A reenactment of the appearance of Our Lady of Guadalupe to Juan Diego emphasizes the entire focus of the celebration. This year an added enhancement was made in the decoration of the area surrounding the statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Local artist Debra Bryant, along with her husband Mike Bryant, spent countless hours engineering and creating a large backdrop of a three dimensional grotto for prayer and offering of the people. The grotto measured 12’ high, 30’ wide, and 40’ deep, and depicted Mt. Tepejac, the place where the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe to Juan Deigo transpired. The scene was derived from a similar grotto visited on pilgrimage by several committee members, along with Father Carlos Rojas in Mexico. The backdrop featured a glowing pre-dawn sky behind the statue with mountains, live plants of yucca, oleander, ti plants, and other blooming plants. Four faux waterfalls cascaded down from the upper level, spilling into a large pool area surrounded by more live plants and faux rocks. The grotto was surrounded by four large custom built candelabras and six flower holders. The scene required several weeks to create and about five hours utilizing five people to set up.
Photo by Mike Bryant
Festival Dedicated To The Mother Of All Mexicans Our Lady of Guadelupe B Written By: Heather Davis
efore the Christmas season officially begins, in many parts of the world Mexicans join together for the Festivities of Our Lady of Guadalupe whose feast day, December 12, is the most important day of the year on the Mexican calendar.
Known in Spanish as Dia de Nuestra Senora Guadalupe, this festival commemorates the miraculous appearance of the Virgin of Guadalupe to a native Mexican peasant, Juan Diego. When the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego, she spoke these important words, “Am I not your mother? Are you not under my shadow and gaze? Am I not your source of joy? Are you not sheltered under my mantle, under the embrace of my arms?” It was after the appearance that thousands of Mexicans converted to Christianity. In remembrance of the past as well as the future, the festival successfully combines ancient Aztec traditions in with modern Christian symbolism.
In Plant City the celebration of the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe has been a long standing tradition at St. Clement Catholic Church. But, after the celebration had outgrown the parish facilities a decision was made by the pastor and the Our Lady of Guadalupe Committee to find a local venue suitable to carry out the vision of the celebration. The Plant City Stadium was chosen for its proximity to the church, its size and layout and has served to facilitate the celebration for the past four years. This year over 30,000 people gathered over a period of three days from December 10-12th. The off-site celebration encompasses a wide range of cultural heritage observations, such as folklore dance celebrations, matachinas (traditional Aztec dancers), mariachis, local bands, and ethnic food. The rosary is recited daily and there is an all night prayer vigil from midnight of the 11th through 4:30 a.m. on the 12th, with the traditional mass of Our Lady of Guadalupe at 5 a.m., followed
by hot chocolate and sweet bread. Just as in Mexico City, a procession is held by members of the Juan Diego Society who arrive by crawling on their knees to make offering and prayers in dedication
Throughout the three days of celebration, approximately 5,000 lighted candles and countless thousands of flower banked 10’ deep in the 30’ wide open lawn area, all offered in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe, along with petitions and prayers.
Photo by Mike Bryant foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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Local » did you know
Henry B. Plant The Businessman and Visionary part 2 of 2 submitted By: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center
I
n 1879 Henry Plant began acquiring railroads. He and associates bought the bankrupt Atlantic and Gulf Railroad (Georgia) and reorganized it as the Savannah Florida and Western Railroad. This was the beginning of what was to become The Plant System. In 1880 he purchased the Savannah and Charleston Railroad at a foreclosure sale. He set his sights on Jacksonville and in 1880 acquired the charter of the East Florida Railroad and built a railroad from Jacksonville north to Georgia. Over a twenty-year time span, Plant acquired 14 railroads and 2000 miles of track. In 1882 he and some business associates organized the Plant Investment Company, incorporated in Connecticut, with headquarters in New York City. This corporation acted as a holding company and acquired and/or managed railroads, hotels, real estate, steamship lines, telegraph systems, and more. Henry Bradley Plant was the President until he died. (One of his top officers was Col. Henry Stephen Haines, after whom Haines City is named.) Plant later developed his steamboat system along the St. Johns River, and had plans for steamships to run from the west coast of Florida to Key West and Havana, Cuba. In the north he planned to have his steamers run from Boston to Bar Harbor and other resort areas. With the development of a transportation system along the east coast of Florida, reaching to Jacksonville, Savannah, and Charleston, Plant decided he needed a west coast Florida terminal to connect is rail system to his steamers. At that time, Cedar Key was ranked fifth in population in the state and had a good port and a rail connection to Fernandina, an east coast port city, via the Florida Transit and Peninsular Railroad, originally built by David Levy Yulee prior to the Civil War. Plant surveyed the situation and decided to build a terminal at Cedar Key. The railroad owners there were not favorable to that idea and the Cedar Key community rejected Plant. He looked southward, toward the small community of Tampa. In 1853 the population of Tampa was 500, and by the early 1880s it had not changed much. Plus it did not have a deep water port. But it was on a direct line from Sanford, Florida, where
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Plant’s steamboat line from Jacksonville would terminate. To encourage the building of railroads in Florida, in 1881 Governor Wm. D. Bloxham instituted an official policy of granting many acres of land for each mile of track constructed. In four years over one thousand additional miles of track were laid, and many thousands of acres of land were granted to the builders. Plant benefitted handsomely from the land grants. Time was pushing Henry Plant and he needed to acquire, purchase, or build the additional connections to complete his system. This required a Sanford to Tampa rail line. Over the years, Plant obtained railroad charters and railroads, and built them into an integrated system. The South Florida Railway was chartered in 1875, but was not started; it changed ownership about 1879 and a narrow-gauge line was constructed from Orlando east to Sanford in 1880. This narrow gauge line was extended west to Kissimmee in March 1882, when the money ran out. The Jacksonville Tampa Key West Railroad had been chartered to build the entire line. Portions were built near Jacksonville, but stopped. In 1882 they began grading 15 miles of roadbed east out of Tampa. Money again ran short. Henry B. Plant worked out a deal with the Jacksonville Tampa Key West Railroad and acquired the charter to build the rail line between Tampa and Sanford. This was in June 1883 – the charter was to expire January 25, 1884. The Plant Investment Company was also dealing with the City of Tampa to accommodate its building plans. Because Tampa did not have a deep water port, Plant created Port Tampa at the western terminus of the rail line, on the southwestern coast of Tampa’s peninsula. Port Tampa City followed. Plant built a wharf out into Tampa Bay and by August 1 schooners were delivering construction materials and supplies. Plant’s steamboats were delivering construction materials to Sanford, and then over the completed portion of the rail line to the “end of the track”. Workmen plied their trade feverishly from both western and eastern ends. One of these “end of the tracks” areas was later incorporated as the City of Plant City.
When Henry B. Plant surveyed the maps, there was no Plant City, nor a number of other communities that blossomed along the fertile railroad. There were plans developed that showed potential railroads being constructed east-west and north-south intersecting at the area later named Plant City, but area residents had been let down before, when David Yulee ran his railroad to Cedar Key and not further to the south. Nonetheless, there were many excited residents and businessmen awaiting this construction. Henry Plant took a steamboat to Sanford and on December 1, 1883, set off for Tampa. The end of the tracks leading from Sanford was about where Auburndale is today. The end of the tracks leading from Tampa was about where Plant City is. Hence, Plant and his party, including Henry S. Haines, rode the train to the end of the tracks and were carried by horse-drawn carriages to the Plant City area, where they boarded their private rail cars and continued to Tampa, arriving there about 8pm. The residents along the partially completed line were exuberant. Henry B. Plant’s South Florida Railway’s last tie was laid 6 miles east of Lakeland on January 22, 1884, just days before the charter was to expire. They celebrated at the Orange Grove Hotel in Tampa. The first through train from Tampa to Sanford departed Tampa January 24, 1884, and arrived in Sanford on January 25th. The population exploded. The area of east Hillsborough County near the railroad grew from 720 in 1880 to 5,532 in 1890. Plant opened a Southern Express Company office in Tampa and the South Florida Telegraph Company constructed a line to Tampa. On January 10, 1885, residents of the old Ichepuckesassa area met and voted to establish Plant City. Plant continued to buy troubled railroads and charters, and to connect them. Henry Plant wanted to accommodate his rail and steamship passengers and began building a number of hotels – some of them outstanding. He built the greatest one in Tampa – the Tampa Bay Hotel, which opened January 1, 1886. (It is now a part of the University of Tampa campus.) He also built the Port Tampa Inn – on stilts over Tampa Bay – the Tropical Hotel in Kissimmee, the Belleview in Clearwater (1897), and others in Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, Winter Park, Ocala, and several other locations. Continuing to develop his plan, Henry Bradley Plant initiated a passenger and cargo steamship service from Port Tampa to Key West and Havana, Cuba. He continued the steamboat operations on the St. Johns River,
and added the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee River system, and later added the Flint River. This took place in the 1880s and 1890s. He later added the Boston operations during the summers, utilizing mostly the Mascotte and the Olivette steamships. (While it is improbable that Henry B. Plant owned the Olivette Hotel at the corner of Collins and Reynolds Streets in Plant City, it is quite plausible that a member of the Plant System owned the hotel. The Plant System was large and there were many employees in the Plant City area and they had a distinct impact on the town.) Henry Plant was an entrepreneur, and when the hostilities with Spain were heating up, 1896, Plant’s ships were part of the action. Additionally, he had Port Tampa designated as the principal port of demarcation for the forthcoming operations in Cuba – and later transported Teddy Roosevelt’s “Rough Riders”. And, the Tampa Bay Hotel was filled with dignitaries, officers, reporters, and civilian officials. Henry Bradley Plant died June 23, 1899. His son, Morton Freeman Plant, maintained a home in Groton, Connecticut, and later built a second home in Clearwater, near the Belleview Hotel about 1905. Morton Plant held many important positions with his father’s businesses, including Chairman of the Board of the Southern Express Company. In 1912, Morton Plant, wife Nellie Capron Plant, and son Henry II, were wintering in Clearwater. Henry II was seriously injured in an automobile accident, suffering a crushed leg and hip. There was no hospital nearby and Morton Plant arranged for a railroad car to be outfitted with all the medical necessities and equipment and had it brought to the Belleview. In 1914 Morton Plant was approached by a group of ladies who were raising money for a Clearwater hospital to be built. Plant offered a permanent endowment of $100,000 of Atlantic Coast Line railroad stock – conditioned upon their ability to raise $20,000 to build the hospital. They did. Morton Plant Hospital was opened in Clearwater January 1, 1916. Morton Plant died in 1918; his son Henry II died in 1939.
Sources: Plant City Photo Archives and History Center; Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City; Its Origin and History, privately published, 1984; Edward A. Mueller, Steamships of the Two Henrys; Being An Account of the Maritime Activities of Henry Morrison Flagler and Henry Bradley Plant, privately published,1996.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
33
Local » chamber of commerce
GREATER PLANT CITY
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce CHRISTMAS TREE CONTEST was a great success. The winner of the $200 Visa Gift Card was Alan Orr. Congratulations, Alan! Trophies were awarded to the following businesses for the best decorated tree: 1st. Place: Crawford-Hill Interiors, Inc. 2nd. Place: Holiday Inn Express 3rd. Place: Bruton Memorial Library
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE submitted By: bruce rodwell
January 27th. - Chairman’s Banquet at Red Rose Inn & Suites.
March 3rd.-13th. - Be sure and stop by the Chamber’s booth at the Florida Strawberry Festival. Our booth is in the Arthur Boring Building. April 15th. - Children’s Annual Golf Tournament at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. April 23rd. - Planes, Trains & Automobiles at Plant City Airport 10 AM to 3 PM. May 3rd. - Margarita Ball - 7 PM to Midnight. August 18th. - New Teacher Coffee at Strawberry Festival Expo Building- 7 AM. November 3rd. - Economic Development Council Business Awards Banquet at Red Rose Inn & Suites 6 to 9 PM. November 19th. - 9th. Annual PIG JAM 10 AM to 5 PM. ********** On January 27th. the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will install new officers at the 29 th. Annual Chairman’s Banquet at the Red Rose Inn & Suites.
Congratulations to the winners of the trophies. When next Christmas rolls around, be sure to watch for the announcement of this contest. It is great fun and an opportunity to visit the participating businesses and get acquainted. ********** This is the first Chamber page of the New Year. Get out your calendars and make notations for the various events that have been planned for 2011: BIKE FEST - 1st. Saturday of every month 5-9 PM in downtown Plant City. Anniversary Show in October. STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW - 3 rd. Saturday of every month in down Plant City 4-9 PM. Anniversary show in April. CONTACT BREAKFAST AT RED ROSE INN & SUITES - 2nd. Wednesday of each month (except July). Starts at 7:30 AM.
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Taking over as Chairman of the Board is Lee Williams, Chairman Elect, Matt Buzza, Immediate Past Chairman, Charles Harris, Treasurer, Jim Scott, Vice Chairman of the Chamber’s Community Program Division, Janet Kelly, Vice Chairman of Membership, Gary Pike, and Vice Chairman of the Economic Development Division, Doug Driggers New Director’s for 2011 are: Rick Bunnell, Michael Cameron, Paul Davis, Jason Jones, Edwena Haney, Nate Kilton, Gail Lyons, Steve Nierman, Roy Peterson, Ed Verner, Phil Waldron, and Brian West. In addition, the Chamber is blessed with a terrific staff. Marion Smith is President, Amy Nizamoff, Administrative Coordinator, Nancy Benedict, Communications Director, Jennifer Chamberlain, Membership Director, Jane Gonzalez, Tourist Information Coordinator and Al Collinge, Tourist Information Specialist and coordinator of the Union Station Welcome Center and Depot. In addition, off site staff includes Fran Johnson and Ralph Ambrose, Coordinators of the Tourist Information Center on Park Road. To check for new updates and additional information, you can log onto the Chamber’s web site at www.plantcitychamber.com .
********** On January 18th. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is holding a SPEED NETWORKING program at the Red Rose Inn & Suites, 2011 North Wheeler Street. This program will present an innovative and effective way to network. Individuals meet one-onone in five minute increments, resulting in a fast-paced, professional relationship building experience. Call the Chamber at 813-754-3707 for information and to register. ********** On January 19th. auditions will be held for BRIGHT STARS SENIOR TALENT SHOW at the Brandon Community Center, 502 East Sadie Street, Brandon from 9 AM to 1:30 PM. You can call 813-436-2296 for additional information. You will not want to miss ED VERNER IN CONCERT on January 20th. at the Photo Archives & History Center, 106 S. Evers Street in downtown Plant City. There will be a reception at 7:30 with the concert starting at 8 PM. Admission is $50. and reservations are required due to limited seating. ********** On February 3rd. the Plant City Garden Club will present “GIVE MY REGARDS TO BROADWAY’, a standard flower show at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. The program will take place from 5 to 8 PM. The flower show is free to the public. As an added feature, dinner and entertainment is available in the main dining room. Dinner reservations are required and interested parties are asked to call the WLG&C Club at 813-752-1171 to RSVP. This is a great opportunity to come and see beautiful floral arrangements based on various popular Broadway plays. General Chairman of this event is Cassandra Banning along with Club President, Mikie Snyder serving as Assistant Chairman. You
can obtain additional information by calling Cassandra at 716-0950 or Mikie at 752-9363. ********** The February 19 th. STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW will feature a Tribute to Pontiacs. All Pontiacs are welcome. This is a great family event. Starts at 4 and goes on till 8 PM. This event takes place in downtown Plant City. ********** Here are some dates for your calendar: February 3rd. - Strawberry Festival Fashion Show February 3rd. - Plant City Friends of Scouting at Hillsborough Community College February 5th. - Greater Plant City Chamber Bike Fest in downtown Plant City February 9th. - Chamber’s Contact Breakfast at the Red Rose Inn & Suites February 10th. - GFWC Women’s Club of Plant City card party at the Club’s location, 1110 North Wheeler St., Plant City. Call Sandra Lodato 982-0199 for information and tickets February 10th. - Florida State Fair opens. Their web site is www.flstatefair.com February 11 & 12 - Black Heritage Festival at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center. Call Sharon Moody at 453-7134 for information and programs February 12th. - Plant City United Food Bank Annual Celebrity Chef Dinner at Hillsborough Community College. February 17th. - Art & All That Jazz at Plant City Photo Archives. Call Gil Gott at 754-1578 for details and tickets REMEMBER TO SUPPORT YOUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS SHOP & PATRONIZE THE BUSINESSES WHERE YOU SEE THIS SIGN MEMBER GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.plantcity.org
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12/13/2010 11:00:53 PM foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician
Can ChiropraCtiC help your immune system? What about Flu vaCCines?
Doctors of chiropractic analyze your spine to locate vertebral subluxations (misalignments), a serious condition that causes spinal distortions and interferes with your nervous system function. Over a hundred years of chiropractic and osteopathic observations have demonstrated to many patients that spinal care improves immune function. The exact mechanism of how the spine and the nervous system affect the immune system is one of the hottest areas of scientific inquiry. This field is called Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI). Keeping your spine healthy under chiropractic care is one of the best ways of keeping your immune system functioning at its optimum level so you have a better opportunity to be healthy and whole. Take preventative actions to build your immune system. Remember there is a lot of controversy to what is in a vaccine and potential effects to the body.
Many have wondered why such a rush to get a flu vaccine. Many feel it is a “scarcity mentality” like rushing to the store when a hurricane is approaching or a rush to the banks during a stock market crash. Instead of rushing to get vaccines please gather and evaluate the documented information that is available to enhance your immune system. So remember the chiropractic advice given at the top of the article to help give you a healthy piece of mind and some motherly advice: wash your hands frequently, and if you do get sick, stay home, drink hot soup, and keep up with your chiropractic adjustments. Blessings, Dr. Dukes and Staff Special Note: February 14th is Valentine’s Day – Remember God loves you and so do we. HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!
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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january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
Feature by Plant City Photo Archives & History Center
A
frican Americans have been part of Plant City, Florida, since the earliest days of the community. They have played many important roles, especially in education and community building, and here is just some of that history.
BEALSVILLE
The Bealsville community outside Plant City is unique in American history for the way it was organized and it pre-dates the City itself. Born in Georgia, Peter Dexter, one of the founders of Bealsville, moved to eastern Hillsborough County in the late 1840s to work the plantations. When the Hancock, Berry, Hamilton, Branch, Wilder, and Howell Plantations freed their slaves in 1865, a number of families remained on the Howell lands to plan their future settlement. Those twelve original families were: Peter Dexter, Bryant Horton, Roger Smith, Robert Story, Isaac Berry, Mills Holloman, Sam Horton, Mary Riddick, Jerry Stephens, Neptune Henry, Steven Allen, and Abe Sesenger. Dexter, who had acquired surveying skills, and Smith, Stephens, Reddick, and Horton searched for and selected prospective home sites and, through the Southern Homestead Act of 1866, families were able to homestead property ranging from 40 to 160 acres. The community, which was originally called Howell’s Creek, and later Alafia, founded Antioch Baptist Church in 1868 and almost immediately set up a school within it, with William Glover procuring the first teacher. The land for the church, school, and a cemetery was donated by Alfred Beal and in 1923 the community was named Bealsville in his honor. Beal was also noteworthy for setting a precedent of keeping Bealsville property in the hands of local families. If a property owner defaulted on mortgage or tax payments, Beal would buy the property and sell it back to residents in smaller parcels.
WILLIAM GLOVER SCHOOL
With its traditional focus on education, the Black community of Bealsville built a one-room schoolhouse, Antioch School, in 1873. Unable to get the School District to build a new school, in 1932 Bealsville residents raised $1,000 and William Glover donated ten acres of land for the school. This time the School District said yes, and a three-room wood-frame building was constructed in 1933, and was named the William Glover School the following year. The school was expanded in 1945 and again in 1949; the Glover School then included four separate structures. The Glover School, a “Strawberry School” until 1962, has held a special spot for many in the Bealsville community over the years, and served the Black community until 1972, when it became a sixth grade center, serving both black and white children. Over time, the old school became obsolete and it was closed in 1980; in 1981 it was donated back to the community, whose area residents had formed a non-profit organization, Bealsville, Inc., to preserve it. Today (2011), the Bealsville Glover School sits proudly on Horton Road as an historical site, just a short distance southeast of Plant City; it is also used for programs for the elderly, and for several other community programs. foCUS Magazine Plant City Januray 2011 37
A Special in Recognition of Black History Month
Midway Academy, Lincoln Park 1947
MIDWAY ACADEMY to MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL and LINCOLN ELEMENTARY
With a growing Black community settling in the Lincoln Park area in the southeast sector of the City of Plant City, an elementary school was built there in 1920. It was named Midway Academy and at first served grades one through eight. Beginning in 1936, one additional grade was added each year until all grades through twelve were being taught. It was at this time that the Plant City Negro High School came into being. It lasted until 1949, when the name was changed to Marshall High School. A new Marshall High School was built in 1957 on a thirty-acre tract of land on Maryland Avenue, a few blocks north of the old school, and the former Midway Academy was now renamed Lincoln Elementary. In 1972, in accordance with the School District’s integration plan, Glover School became a sixth-grade center, and Marshall School became a seventhgrade center. Fittingly, the man who was principal at Marshall High School from 1954 to 1967, E. L. Bing, Jr., of Plant City, served as the School District’s Director of Federal Projects and was credited for the smooth integration of the public schools.
THE BINGS, THE SEMINOLE RESTAURANT, AND THE ROOMING HOUSE
Marshall High School 1958
The Bing family is also a well-known Plant City family. The progenitors, Janie Wheeler and Elijah L. Bing, Sr., were from other areas, Alachua County, and South Carolina, respectively, and met in Plant City about 1917-1918, and married shortly thereafter. Janie was educated
the
african american experience in plant city
at Florida A&M and was a certified teacher. She was intending to go to Miami to teach and on the way passed through Plant City. She never made it to Miami, but instead married and devoted herself to her family, her church, her community, and her businesses. They built a structure on East Laura Street about 1925 and operated the Seminole Restaurant there until 1955. On the north portion of the same lot, they constructed a house that became the Bing Rooming House, which served the African American travelers, visitors, or local area residents in a segregated society. Janie Wheeler Bing operated the Bing Rooming House, at 205 S. Allen Street, (in Lincoln Park), for nearly fifty years, from the 1920s to about 1975. The Bings were well known for the quality of their hospitality – clean rooms and good food – and the people that stayed and ate there included teachers, lawyers, ball players, ministers, and other prominent people. Baseball Hall of Fame’s Frank Robinson and Curt Flood were among the many who enjoyed the Bings’ establishments. The restaurant building has been razed, but the house still stands. It hasn’t changed much. It is now owned by the Plant City Improvement League and is recognized by the City of Plant City and the State of Florida for its historic significance. The Improvement League is currently restoring the historic building. James Washington, the son of Mildred Bing Washington Majors, was born and raised in the old rooming house.
MR. E.L. BING: EDUCATOR AND LEADER
Janie and Elijah L. Bing, Sr. had three children – Elijah, Jr., Mildred, and young Janie. Education played a major role in the lives of the Bing family. After gaining his education and returning to Plant City, E. L. Bing, Jr., served the county schools as an educator, school principal, and was the first black assistant administrator on the county level. The following is a first-person narrative by Photo Archives and History Center Advisory Council Member, Bill Thomas, as told to the editor. Attending Marshall High School was both an educational and cultural experience. (Marshall High was segregated, and blacks from Bealsville, Hopewell, Knights Station and the general Plant City area attended the school.) My introduction to Mr. E.L. Bing began when I entered Marshall High. Mr. Bing was the principal at Marshall High School and thus was responsible for the education of all who attended. As a young seventh-grader, I did not realize, nor could I have known, the effect that this experience would have on my life as well as those of my fellow schoolmates. Mr. Bing was officially principal administrator of Marshall High but, because education was viewed as the vehicle to prosperity, Mr. Bing, “educator and leader,” was more important than I could have imagined. As I look back now, I truly realize the difficulties Mr. Bing faced. His leadership ability in bringing together a faculty of true professionals—teachers, librarians, administrative staff, culinary staff, secretaries, custodians, etc.—was magnificent. It was a feat that I did not come to appreciate until I was an adult responsible for my own life and well-being. I can only imagine the difficulties Mr. Bing faced in the Jim Crow segregated South, acquiring the essentials such as books, supplies, equipment and the funding necessary to provide a positive and fruitful educational experience for his students—especially when you consider that the books and most equipment available were used hand downs from Plant City High School and Tomlin Junior High. After Marshall High School and Bethune-Cookman College, I entered the U.S. Army in 1969. It was only after I entered the U.S. Army that I realized the education I had received at Marshall was second to none. I remember well that the curriculum included mathematics (algebra, geometry, and trigonometry), science (general science, biology, and chemistry), social studies, history (U.S. and world), economics, world literature, foreign languages and typing. And there was physical education (and an exposure to ballroom and square dancing and bowling), home economics, arts and crafts, mechanical and industrial shop, and all other extracurricular activities needed to produce a well-rounded educational environment. I credit much of my own success over the years to Mr. E.L. Bing’s educational philosophy as I experienced it in those years at Marshall High School. And the reason for Mr. Bing’s overall success as
E.L. Bing, Principal, Marshall High School 1961
Mr. Bing was officially principal administrator of Marshall High but, because education was viewed as the vehicle to prosperity, Mr. Bing, “educator and leader,” was more important than I could have imagined.
the
african american experience in plant city
a principal and educator was his ability to select the best and the most dedicated teachers. Mr. Bing’s ability to recruit teachers who demanded your best, and who gave their best, was responsible for creating the most well rounded educational experience a student of any color could have received. Here are some of the reasons for my conclusions. All students were required to attend six classes each six-week period. Some students could select up to three electives; however, the green group (college preparatory) continually had five of the six classes designated as part of a curriculum established by Mr. Bing. During our junior year we had no electives—we were told that economics would be our elective, just as we had elected to take typing, Spanish and other non-traditional classes. (In conversations with graduates of other high schools I discovered not only that they were not required to take typing, but also that they could not even take it if they desired to—there were no typewriters available.) There were many great teachers and other faculty members who played a role in the Marshall experience, but it was Mr. Bing’s exceptional education expectations, his leadership skills, his ability to recruit and motivate the faculty he needed to accomplish his goals and his steadfastness as leader in not allowing skin color to be an excuse for lack of achievement that made this outstanding educational environment possible. Mr. Bing’s tenure as principal at Marshall High School produced a multitude of professionals: doctors, lawyers, nurses, teachers, business owners, pilots, outstanding military service men and women and many white- and blue-collar professionals. All of these graduates have made positive contributions not only to their communities, but also to their country and the world.
Citizen of the Year 1997 Sadye Gibbs Martin
The Haines Street Recreation Center, as it was first known (now known as the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center), has provided nearly fifty years of service to the children of Plant City. This facility was made possible through Mr. Bing’s leadership in community affairs. Mr. Bing’s tenure as principal at Marshall High ended in 1967, when he was appointed director of federal projects for the county school district. His legacy of providing the best education possible, however, will live for generations to come.
PLANT CITY ’ S AFRICAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY PRODUCED MANY LEADERS
In addition to Mr. Bing, the Black community has produced many leaders – teachers, church leaders, role models in community services and government, and much more. Included are people such as Sadye Gibbs Martin, after whom a portion of the new City Hall is named, Sam Horton, who had an outstanding career as an educator, Sam Cooper, who was a shining light as a leader of the NAACP and other organizations, and now has a park named after him, and Marie Bell Ellis, who labored to honor our servicemen and women, and provided the community with what became the Marie B. Ellis Park, and there are many more who have served and will continue to serve our community. The Black community has been part of the essential fabric of the greater Plant City community since it first developed, and has been responsible for many of the great progressive strides that have been made in this growing community. And we celebrate Black Heritage not only during the Dr. Martin Luther King., Jr., holiday, not only during Black History Month, but every day of the year.
African Americans have been part of Plant City, Florida, since the earliest days of the community. They have played many important roles, especially in education and community building, and here is Sam Horton, Lincoln Elementary School 1967
just some of that history.
foCUS Magazine Plant City Januray 2011
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Making Our Community a Better Place to Live for
William Thomas Giving Back was The Right Thing To Do Spotlight interview by Brian West | Photos by Stephanie Humphrey Photography and courtesy of william thomas
There are many folks in every community that work to make them better places to live. Recently, I had an opportunity to spend some time with William Thomas. Thomas has had quite a career, both in the military and in law enforcement, but has also been instrumental in so many ways, in and around Plant City. Focus: Are you originally from Plant City? Thomas: Yes. I’m fourth generation and my sons, Thomas Jr. and Chad, are the fifth generation of our family to live here in Plant City. I think I was fortunate growing up to have lived on both the west and the east side of Plant City. Originally, we lived on 1211 West Ball St. Then in 1962, we moved to the east side and our address was 2005 East Ohio St. Focus: I’ve lived here all my life and never heard anyone refer to an east side or west side of Plant City. Thomas: Yeah. They called the west side of town “Dark Town” because there was only one street light on the corner of Waller and Ball. Later on the city put a light at the corner of Gibbs and Ball. The area where the projects is located on Gibbs Street used to be called the “Quarters.” There were a bunch of red wooden houses with outhouses that were there at the time. The east side of town was called Lincoln Park. Focus: Tell me about your family. I understand someone played professional baseball. Thomas: My wife is Gwendolyn and we have two sons, William Thomas Jr. and Chad. Yeah, my dad, Terry Thomas, played ball when I was a little kid. I was probably about 5 years old when it looked like he gave it up. But years later he explained that I was his second child and he had to provide for his family. At that time, ball players didn’t make the kind of money they do today. He was able to travel quite a bit. He’s still alive. He’s 82 years old. This past summer, the Hall of Fame came to Tampa and met with the other players from the league that are here in the area. My mom, here maiden name was Ruby Williams, worked with Lakeland Regional as a dietitian. She was born and raised in Plant City as well. My dad was from the west side of town and my mom was from the east side of town. I have one brother, Terry Jr., and three sisters, Fayshone, was the Principal at Marshall, Sherry and Sandra.
continued on page 46
foCUS Magazine Plant City Januray 2011
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M a k i n g O u r C omm u n i t y a B e t t continued from page 45
Focus: Tell me where you went to school. Thomas: I went to Simmons Elementary School for first through sixth grades and then went to Marshall starting with seventh grade. I actually had to walk from the west side to Marshall every day. It was just over 2 miles. The greater majority of the kids walked to school, so I wasn’t by myself. Marshall, at the time, was a center of activity. They built the Recreation Center in 1963 and so the area was just the center of everything we did. Even though we were segregated, I believe the teachers we had were second to none. When I graduated from high school, I went to Bethune-Cookman on a music scholarship and played in the band.
Focus: And I guess you went into the military at some point. Thomas: Yes. Vietnam was going on at the time. I didn’t want to go into the military, but rather than have someone else decide which branch of the military I would go into through the draft, I decided on my own and enlisted into the Army. When I got back from Vietnam, I was a Military Police Sergeant. I was going to school trying to finish my degree and I was approached by one of my Captains. He saw something in me and told me about the program for the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). I was interested and decided to pursue it. I had to take a General Aptitude test and my score had to be above 120 to qualify, which was interesting because you only had to score 110 to be an officer. I scored 128. I applied and was accepted. So I was a CID Special Agent investigating all major crimes; homicides, robberies, rapes, those kinds of things. I went to the Panama Canal and had an opportunity to work with the Panamanian government on narcotics cases. As a matter of fact, when I was there, Manuel Noriega was a Lieutenant. I spent 4 years in Panama. While I was there, I applied for direct appointment to become an officer. I went before the board and was accepted. I became a Warrant Officer, which is basically the same as a Lieutenant except you’re a specialist in your particular area. When I came back to the United States, I was stationed at Hunter Airfield, which is in Savannah, Georgia. I was there for 3 years. A senior Agent talked to me about the Forensics Science field. He thought I’d be good at it. So I applied and was accepted to the Forensics Training program. It’s a two year program. The field only had 14 people. I handled all friction skin; meaning anything on the hands and feet. I also handled shoe prints, tire tracks and post mortem identification. At the end of the course, I took a 40-hour examination. It was the toughest exam I’ve ever taken. I worked in that field for 18 years, right up until my retirement. I was the
Chief of the Division in Europe and handled all the installations in Europe, which included all the British and Canadian forces and the ships on that side of the Atlantic and in the Mediterranean. I retired in 1993.
Focus: So what was next for you? Thomas: I left the military on a Friday and took a job with the Hillsboro County Sheriff ’s Office on Monday. About 4 ½ years later, I was at a conference in Palm Beach Gardens and was approached by a Laboratory Director from Mississippi. They were looking for someone to come in and assist with training and to get their labs accredited. The gentleman knew me and they offered me a position as the Identification Section Chief for the State of Mississippi. I worked there for 5 years and then retired. Then I was contacted by the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office. They were looking for someone to fill my position skills. I spoke with Grady Judd. He was actually running for Sheriff at the time. Focus: Describe your work with the Sheriff ’s Office. I understand it’s not quite like we see on Law and Order or any of the CSI shows. Thomas: That’s right. It really depends on where you’re working and what their budgets are. When I was in the military, we were working with lasers in 1977. But for the Sheriff ’s Office, you’d be hard pressed to find a more equipped office than the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office. If you commit a crime in Polk County and leave any kind of print, odds are, we’re going to catch you. We have the largest palm print database in the country, and the palm has the same identifiers as finger prints. In forgery cases, odds are, you have a better chance of catching those criminals with a print of the side of their hand than you will with finger prints. Focus: Tell me about your involvement with the Improvement League and their efforts with the Martin Luther King Jr. Festival. Thomas: I’ve been involved with the Improvement League since 1993. There are really two entities that are involved with the Festival – the Improvement League and Beasville Incorporated. The Improvement League is focused on Plant City and the surrounding areas, and Beasville Incorporated is focused specifically on the Beasville area. But there are several people that serve with both organizations. They work very closely together to ensure that our missions are accomplished. I was President of the
er Place to Live Improvement League for 8 years, and now I’m serving as the President of Beasville Incorporated. Every dime we make goes directly back into the community. Everyone involved in both organizations are volunteers. Most of these folks have full-time jobs. We often find ourselves putting in 40 additional hours a week with these organizations. When I retuned home to Plant City, my goal was to give back to the community. When you hear the phrase, ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’ it’s true. It literally talks about my life. I can think of the people that made sure I was on the straight and narrow when my parents weren’t around. Although I didn’t appreciate it when I was younger, I’ve learned to appreciate it as I’ve grown older. Those people had to care enough about me to speak up and do something. I’m not sure that we have as much of that today. Most of those people have passed away since I was a child, so I couldn’t help them directly, but I wanted to give back to the community.
Focus: What are you most proud of? Thomas: My immediate family and the difference I think we’ve been able to make. I haven’t accomplished everything I wanted to or had the success that I would like to have had, but I appreciate it all and I just hope that one kid 20 years from now would say that if it weren’t for the things Mr. Thomas did, I might not have made the right decisions and be a productive citizen. The Improvement League hosts and operates the MLK Festival. The Festival will be held at the Plant City MLK Recreation Center, which is located at 1601 East MLK Blvd. It will start on Friday morning, January 14th, with a Luncheon and a Teen Dance that evening for the teens. Saturday is the largest day with a parade at 1:00 p.m., old school, gospel, food and art vendors accompanied by a kiddy circus. The headliner is Hip Hop Artist, Lil Kee, performing that evening. There will probably be somewhere near 5000 attendees for the Festival. The Sunday Leadership Breakfast is sold out. Thomas, and others like him, have done so much in to help our community. He’s worked with the Boys & Girls Club, NAACP investigative services, establishing a new youth football program in 2006 - the ‘Plant City Eagles,’ which is now supported by the NFL and has a state of the art youth football facility in Bealsville and served as Chairman for the School Capacity Council when the plans were underway for Strawberry Crest High School. Thanks so much for all your efforts. These successes are a direct result of your tireless dedication.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City Januray 2011
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The Strawberry Classic Car Show, Plant City Bike Fest and many other downtown events surround this two story, 4000 sq ft, newly renovated (in 2005) commercial building in the historic district of Downtown Plant City. Rooted deep in the community, as it was once the town’s hospital, shoe store, restaurant and most recently the offices of Focus Magazine. This building has it all: exposed brick walls, a full service cafÊ with drive through window, completely wired with 16 data (cat 5) and phone jacks. Nothing was left untouched during renovation. This building has all new upgraded electric, plumbing, refurbished windows, drop ceiling, awning and paint. If you are looking for a building with character in a great location this one is for you.
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business » business profile sunrise homes 813-661-6511 www.sunrisehomescorp.com Thus, the “CoolHouse” concept is today’s reality - - energy-efficient floor plans with no wasted space and even flexible space upstairs. With carefully designed roofing systems and Icynene® insulation in the rafters, Sunrise has created “grow into” space for that child who returns after college, the parents who need extra care, or the home theater you hope to enjoy. The not-quite-finished upstairs has floor underlayment, 8’-high wall framing, windows, and bath plumbing stubs. Until the need arises, the space makes for wonderful storage, which makes the king of the garage very happy.
Crystal and Mike will soon move into their dream home, the Pinnacel II, at Walden Pointe. Photos courtesy of Sunrise Homes
Sunrise Homes C
onfidence in the economy is building and with that, the new home market is experiencing a wonderful increase in the number of folks ready to purchase their next American dream.
The Best of the Best written By: Cheryl Johnston
ability to expand their home sweet home as the family’s needs do. This means families can remain in the community they love far into the future, even a lifetime.
Sunrise Homes is the builder of dreams and the Pinnacle model at Walden Pointe could very well be yours. Visit soon and let the dream begin.
This highly regarded Tampa Bay area builder has been selected three times as Grand Award Winner in the annual Parade of Homes, and it’s no wonder. The unique designs, craftsmanship, quality The award-winning designs and energy materials, custom finishes, gorgeous efficiency of Sunrise Homes will win kitchens, spacious laundry rooms and your family’s heart. With the company’s baths, and designer touches belie the innovative and revolutionary “Home for price. Unbelievable is the best one-word Life” concept, families can afford the home description. they want today and the home they’ll need tomorrow. Since its founding in 1983, the land development and homebuilding company The builder offers an array of extraordinary has been absolutely committed to options to help buyers customize their customer satisfaction. They build the most selected floor plan to meet their exact exceptional home in the marketplace needs today. Later, when the family at exceptionally affordable prices. The needs another bedroom, bathroom, game affordability extends to the homeowner’s room or all three, it can happen quickly operating costs with features like Icynene® and affordably. With advanced roofing brand sprayed foam insulation, dual pane design and energy-efficient insulation low-e windows, 14-SEER air conditioning technologies, the flexible space upstairs is systems with “Smart” thermostat and ready to be transformed. energy usage controls. Sunrise Homes builds the home today at the right price and gives homeowners the
community development and homebuilding. Testimonial after testimonial, available for viewing at the company’s website, agreed that Hasbini and his team of professionals exceeded every expectation through the entire new home construction process. Three years ago Hasbini realized that falling prices, intergenerational families, and rising unemployment would demand innovations to accommodate customers’ changing needs. They would need affordable operating costs, flexible space, and communities they could call home for a very long time and even a lifetime.
Competitors and customers have long appreciated Sunrise Homes for superior designs, custom features, and exceptional quality for today’s intelligent homebuyer. Come and compare - the dream begins with a tour of the model at 3001 Via Siena Street at the community entrance off Charlie Griffin at Mud Lake Road. That’s what Crystal and Mike did and soon they will move into their new Pinnacle II model home at Walden Pointe. The large lot sizes and location between their jobs in Brandon and Lake Wales proved perfect. The couple encourages others to shop now for the home that offers flexibility with lifestyle changes. “We love our new floor plan, Sunrise Homes, and Walden Pointe. Come and be our neighbors.” Phone 813-661-6511 or visit the Sunrise Homes website at www.sunrisehomescorp. com for additional information.
Company president, Ali Hasbini, is involved in every aspect of Sunrise’s foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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business » edward jones
Be Prepared for Early - and Possibly Unwanted Retirement submitted By: edward jones
G
iven the economic climate we’re in, you may one day be faced with a downsizing or otherwise forced to retire earlier than you had planned. But even if that happens, you can still maintain control of your financial future — if you make the right moves. Unfortunately, many of us are ill prepared for events such as forced early retirement. In 2009, more people filed for Social Security than any year in history, with a big increase in the number receiving reduced benefits because they filed before their full retirement age. And they paid a heavy price, too — 62-year-old workers who filed for benefits early lost about 25 percent of their monthly benefits over waiting until their “full” retirement age of 66, according to the Social Security Administration. Of course, if you are forced to take an early retirement, you, too, may need to tap into your Social Security earlier than you planned. But that’s just the beginning — you might also need to start withdrawals from your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, even though you had planned on leaving those accounts intact for a few more years. And that’s why you won’t want to wait until early retirement is thrust upon you before taking action. While you’re still working, consider these steps: Boost your contributions to retirement plans. Put as much as you can possibly afford into your 401(k) or other employersponsored plan. Every time your salary goes up, try to increase the amount you contribute to your retirement plan. Also, contribute regularly to your traditional or Roth IRA. Be prepared to rebalance your portfolio. If you’re facing a forced early retirement, or
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even if you think it’s a possibility, you may want to rebalance your portfolio to provide more opportunities for income. Talk to your financial advisor about income strategies appropriate for your particular situation. Build up cash accounts. Even during “normal” times, it’s a good idea to keep an emergency fund, in cash or other liquid vehicles, containing six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses. If you suspect a forced early retirement is heading your way, try to beef up your cash holdings as much as possible. Repay any 401(k) loans. Once you’ve left your employer, you may be forced to repay a 401(k) loan within two months — an obvious hardship during a stressful time. Work part-time. Even if you were forced to retire from one job, it doesn’t mean you couldn’t find another. This might be the perfect time to take a part-time job in an area in which you’ve always wanted to work. Get some help. By consulting with a professional financial advisor, you may find that you actually can afford to retire early. A financial advisor can help you develop those income and spending strategies that are appropriate for your situation. And the earlier you get this type of help, the more options you ultimately may have. You may not be able to avert an unwanted, early retirement, but by preparing for it, as far in advance as possible, you can improve your chances of maintaining the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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Remember Valentine’s Day! Make Your Reservations Today. 56
january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
JANUARY 14 – 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.
JANUARY 15
JIM STAFFORD
Singer-songwriter and comedian, Jim Stafford will grace the stage in the Red Rose Ballroom on this evening for his special birthday celebration. His hits include: Swamp Witch, Spiders and Snakes, and My Girl Bill. Jim’s music has been covered by George Jones and Jerry Reed and he has contributed to several movie soundtracks. Also performing - PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show. Space is limited, so please RSVP for this great dinner show soon!
JANUARY 21 & 29
FEBRUARY 12
THE WORLD FAMOUS PLATTERS – “ENCHANTED” VALENTINE SHOW
Enjoy a romantic evening of continuous hits – “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes,” “Only You,” “Twilight Time,” “Enchanted”... and more in a supper club atmosphere. Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds in the Red Rose Ballroom.
FEBRUARY 12
RALPH ALLOCO & SECOND WIND – “UNFORGETTABLE” VALENTINE SHOW
It’s a three hour Las Vegas style show, in the Red Rose Dining Room, featuring adult contemporary music including show tunes and those special romantic songs for just the right Valentine’s atmosphere!
RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
FEBRUARY 18
JANUARY 22
Richie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
BOB ANDERSON
“A Night in Vegas” Las Vegas Hall of Fame Entertainer! Rich, smooth voice- and great impressionist! PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform.
JANUARY 28
JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room
FEBRUARY 5 & 25
JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE
A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.
JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE
A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.
Come get boppin & rock’in for this fabulous show that will make you yearn for the days of ... (as Paul McCartney would say) – Yesterday! Space is limited, so please RSVP for this great dinner show soon!
THE VAN DELLS
50s & 60s Rock and Roll – The Van Dells are a unique blend of comedy, choreography and tight harmonies... the group is nonstop action from start to finish! Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform before and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.
Back by popular demand. This group will thrill you with the hits that we have loved for so long... including: “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg and “Papa Was A Rolling Stone!” Plus, Richie Merrit and PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.
RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
MARCH 19 & 25
FEBRUARY 19
JANUARY 29
FEBRUARY 4, 12, 19 & 26
The annual is event is underway for another spectacular extravaganza! The celebrity line up includes: The DelPrados, George Galfo’s Mystics, The Edsels (performing Saturday night only!), Terry Johnson’s Flamingos, P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds, Destiny andRalph Allocco & Second Wind. Many activities areincluded to enhance the weekend and to take a trip down Memory Lane, including Hula Hoop, Dance and Costume contests!
MARCH 26
FEBRUARY 26
“One of the Nation’s Most Sought After Oldies Show Bands.” Tributes to Bobby Darin, Ray Charles, Sinatra, Sonny & Cher... and much more! Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.
DOOWOP WEEKEND - VOL. 5
RICHIE MERRITT
A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.
THE FABULOUS HUBCAPS
MARCH 11 & 12
THE LEGACY OF THE TEMPTATIONS
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LOLA & THE SAINTS
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BUDDY HOLLY & BEATLES TRIBUTE SHOW
APRIL 2
BOB RYMAN “THE FIDDLER”
Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” was a legend in the area for many years when The Red Rose was Lanny Purcell’s Holiday Inn and was also a favorite at Florida The Strawberry Festival®. Because of his fans’ request, The Red Rose Inn is bringing “The Fiddler” back. P.J.Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will open & close the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.
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!
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Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General Manager foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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Plant City • 813-752-4155 • www.poppellinsurance.com
Dr. Chris Williams was honored recently as the 2010 Rising Star of the Year by the Next-Generation Pharmacist™ program. The program salutes pharmacy professionals defining the industry’s future. It includes groundbreaking new research that identifies future trends and features a national awards program to recognize those who embody that vision. Of the ceremony at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Williams said, “I met pharmacists from all over the US. Receiving recognition for something you’ve worked so hard at is always a good thing.” The Rising Star of the Year recognizes a pharmacist who has been licensed and practicing fewer than five years, yet has made a tremendous contribution to their specific pharmacy and/or the industry overall.
Dr. Chris Williams Awarded
Rising Star of the Year Award
by Next-Generation Pharmacist 58
january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
The fourth generation Plant City native is the son of Billy and Laurel Williams and father Savannah, age 4. He grew up working with his father during summers on the family’s strawberry farms and took a year off before entering pharmacy school to help. His mother is a nurse and the daughter of Dr. Ben Gatliff, so Chris’s interest in science comes naturally. He’s also a musician - a drummer in a rock/reggae band called Wild Wes and the AllStars. The group will appear January 7 at O’Brien’s in Plant City. Williams earned a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Florida in 2007. For the last 19 months, he’s worked as Pharmacy Advocate for Manatee YourChoice, a government health plan that manages care for employees of Manatee County. As an onsite clinical pharmacist, he coordinates patients’ wellness and prevention benefits. Williams’ passion, he says, is “helping people understand their medicine, and more importantly how to get off of it. I enjoy saving people money on their medication, by working with their physician to find more reasonable options. I am the anti-drug representative. I help people get affordable medications without sacrificing clinical efficacy.”
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business » success
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january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
Joe Keel Keel and Curley winery » How did you get into this business?
I was always interested in agriculture and the nursery business. The property where the Vineyard is now started as an ornamental tree and shrub nursery in 1981. In 1996 we converted to a blueberry nursery. Eventually that evolved into experimenting with the making of wine in the humble beginnings of the home kitchen. By 2004 we received our license to make wine and the rest is history. Now we are in over 745 Publix stores, Sweetbay Supermarkets, ABC Wine Fine & Spirits, Fresh Markets, Total Wines & More, Whole Foods Markets, and many more, of course, including the Keel & Curley Retail Store here in Plant City.
» What are your aspirations? I grew up in Florida, but every summer I would visit my grandparents at their
central Illinois farm. They grew corn and had a very large garden. My grandfather, Joe Keel Sr., taught me the love of working and watching things grow.
» Who has inspired you?
To continue to grow the business and spend time with my sons; twins, Ray and Ryan and youngest son Clay Keel and all my six grandchildren. Clay will be getting out of the army after serving six and half years and plans on joining the family businesses in September. Maybe enjoying a little more saltwater fishing and diving with my wife, Alicia.
» What are your greatest successes?
My sons: Ray is a corporate private pilot, Ryan is in agricultural sales, and Clay is an active military serviceman. I am a very proud father and grandfather.
business » success
Mark Cornett allstate
Your pet looks to you for dental care Your pet looks you dental for dental care Schedule your pet’sto veterinary exam today February is Pet Dental Month. Schedule yourlooks pet’s veterinary dental exam today Your pet to you for dental care
Schedule your pet’s dental cleaning for your Schedule your pet’s veterinary soon dental exam today 20% discount.
» What inspires you?
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®/™ Hill’s and the Pets Need Dental Care, Too logo are trademarks owned by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. The VOHC seal is a registered trademark owned by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. The AVMA logo is a registered trademark owned by the American Veterinary Medical Association. The AVDS logo is a trademark owned by the American Veterinary Dentistry Society. The AVD logo is a trademark owned by the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry. The AVDC logo is a registered trademark owned by the American Veterinary Dental College. The AVDT logo is a trademark owned by the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians. ©2008 Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
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®/™ Hill’s and the Pets Need Dental Care, Too logo are trademarks owned by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. The VOHC seal is a registered trademark owned by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. The AVMA logo is a registered trademark owned by the American Veterinary Medical Association. The AVDS logo is a trademark owned by the American Veterinary Dentistry Society. The AVD logo is a trademark owned by the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry. The AVDC logo is a registered trademark owned by the American Veterinary Dental College. The AVDT logo is a trademark owned by the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians. ©2008 Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. ®/™ Hill’s and the Pets Need Dental Care, Too logo are trademarks owned by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. The VOHC seal is a registered trademark owned by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. The AVMA logo is a registered trademark owned by the American Veterinary Medical Association. The AVDS logo is a trademark owned by the American Veterinary Dentistry Society. The AVD logo is a trademark owned by the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry. The AVDC logo is a registered trademark owned by the American Veterinary Dental College. The AVDT logo is a trademark owned by the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians. ©2008 Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
Animal Wellness Center OF PLANT CITY Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 5:30pm
Try our convenient Drop Off service!
3109 SR 574 West (813) 752-2869
Find us on Facebook! • www.animalwellnesspc.com Dr. Jennifer Conner
» What do you have planned for your future?
I have no grand plans at the moment. I feel very lucky to be where I am. Currently for the business, I am focused on doing the very best job I can for my clients. It is very important to me that their needs are met to the best of my ability. I feel that if I maintain this focus and never lose sight of the importance of my clients, the future will take care of itself.
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I aspire to be: the best father I can be, the best husband I can be, a good and trusted friend, and the best insurance agent I can be. I feel that if I do the very best I can in these four responsibilities, then everything else in my life will fall into place.
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» What are your aspirations?
My greatest successes would have to be measured by the people I have been able to help and/or make a positive impact on their lives. I would have to say one of the biggest compliments I have ever been paid occurred shortly after I took over the agency. Two of my old customers from Wal-Mart saw my picture in the advertisement in Focus and stopped by just to give me a hug. I had not seen Mr. and Mrs. Cumbe for several years prior to this. For someone to take time out of their day for an act of kindness like that, is truly a gift to the person on the receiving end of that jester. I am a lucky person.
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After nearly 25 years in retail management for Wal-Mart and Lowe’s, my wife and I decided it was time to try something new, a business of our own. I had been looking at numerous business models when I was encouraged by a friend to investigate the Allstate business opportunity. I was very skeptical at first, but the more I investigated the opportunities and the philosophies of the company, the more excited I became about working with Allstate. It just so happened that James “Buddy” Bass was looking to sell his book of business after 36 years with Allstate. His office was located here in Plant City. I was lucky enough to have managed the WalMart Super Center here in town for about three years. Everyone, and I mean everyone in Plant City, always treated me great. So that sealed the deal. Before I knew what was happening I had struck a deal with Buddy. To this day, Buddy still checks on me to see if I am doing okay. I am very LUCKY!
» What are your greatest successes?
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» How did you get into this business?
I am inspired by the people around me. By my family most of all, but what I like most about the insurance business is my customers. I get to meet the best and most interesting people, and help them. I feel so lucky to have each and every one of my customers. I guess it was my 20 years of schooling at Wal-Mart. Mr. Sam always taught us that taking care of our customers was the most important part of our job. I was lucky to have that education.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
63
This is a paid advertisement
SunriSe HomeS introduceS “CoolHouse” in Walden Pointe
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Brandon builder, Sunrise Homes, has introduced a new concept that just might change the way we think of our homes. Sunrise calls it the “CoolHouse”, and you can see it in Walden Pointe in Plant City. “Three years ago, I saw change coming in the housing marketplace unlike any I’d seen more than 25 years in the business,” says Ali Hasbini, President of Sunrise.
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Among the changes he saw: falling prices, intergenerational families, rising unemployment, foreclosures running rampant. Buyers were disappearing, afraid to commit to a home purchase in an uncertain environment. “We knew then that in order to survive we needed to address those buyers’ concerns and real fears. We needed to find a way to build and sell a home that would serve today’s buyer’s needs at a value that they could afford, while assuring them that this is a home that they could be comfortable in for a long, long time and maybe for life.” The result is the “CoolHouse”. The home seems to have everything today’s rare and careful buyers demand. “CoolHouse” is a concept, not a specific house,” says Ali. “We developed the components of the package and retrofitted every house we build, so that every home we build and sell today is a CoolHouse.” So, just what is it? First and foremost, the CoolHouse is defined by a large, nearly but not completely finished space. By carefully redesigning the roofing systems and utilizing Icynene brand sprayed insulation in the rafters, Sunrise has created “grow into” space upstairs. For example, the Pinnacle Model showing in Walden Pointe has 3 bedrooms and two baths on the first floor in addition to a complete guest suite with its own bath and separate entrance. But at the top of the finished, carpeted stairs you’ll find another 713 square feet of not-quite-finished space, ready to be completed when you need it. “The space is 8’ tall, with wall framing systems, floor underlayment, windows… we’ve even stubbed the plumbing in case you want to add a bath,” says Hasbini.
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“Now, if you have a boomerang kid who comes home from college, or an aging parent coming to live with you, or you get a promotion and decide to treat yourself to a home theater, you don’t need to look for a new home. The CoolHouse has you covered.” That flexibility begins when you buy a CoolHouse. Sunrise offers an unbelievable array of options on the first floor so that you can buy exactly the home you need today and nothing more. But it’s not just the “grow-into” space that makes the CoolHouse work for today’s cautious buyer. Each home is energy-efficient with that Icynene sprayed-foam insulation, dual-pane, low-e windows, 14-SEER air conditioning and a “Smart” thermostat and energy control system. Sunrise has also contracted with Central Florida Gas to install natural gas lines in Walden Pointe, opening up more energy saving opportunities including a tankless water heater.
You can see the Pinnacle and learn more about the CoolHouse at the Sunrise homes model and sales center at 3001 Via Siena Street in Plant City.
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“We think that a high-value, affordable, comfortable home that is customized to your needs and will grow with you means more stable families and communities,” said Hasbini, “and that’s good for all of us.”
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“Value doesn’t just mean price, but operating costs,” said Hasbini, “so we’ve engineered the CoolHouse concept to deliver maximum energy efficiency. That, along with low homeowners association fees and no CDD’s, makes a CoolHouse all the more affordable.”
Sales and Model Center 3001 Via Siena Street 813-767-5175 From the $170’s
Team Wainoris ...Selling Hillsborough and Polk Multi-Million Dollar Producers
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Randall Wainoris 813-997-3000 REALTOR®/Attorney at Law
Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557 REALTOR® Notary
HOW MUCH INCOME IS YOUR INVESTMENT ACCOUNT PRODUCING EVERY MONTH? If your investment account is performing like most, you have not made a dime in the last 5 years! Ok, so your home value probably hasn’t gone up either...but think about this; at today’s real estate prices, you can probably purchase a moderate home and realize immediate positive rental cash flow day one......can your investment account do that for you? We can help find you the perfect investment home and even help get you with a lender who specializes in these types of transactions. For 2011, maybe you should consider taking advantage of these low real estate prices........they won’t be low forever. It has been a long time since a simple residential home purchase could net you a immediate positive cash flow, and when the market turns around, the inevitable appreciation will be an added bonus! Call Team Wainoris today to see if we can help with your cash flow!
WALDEN LAKE TWO STORY POOL HOME 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with upstairs loft overlooking great room. Beautiful wood staircase, family room with fireplace and so much more. Short sale: bank approved price of just $130,000.
BETTER THAN NEW Great opportunity to purchase this totally renovated 2 bedroom 1 1/2 bath condo in Russellwood Condo Complex in the heart of Brandon. Inside utility, large porch overlooking pool area. Asking just $44,900.
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. Bring all offers, asking just $65,000
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HAINES CITY CUTIE! Great 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on wonderful street. Large family room opens to large back yard. Don’t miss this great opportunity. Short sale. Asking just $62,000.
SOUTH LAKELAND SHORT SALE Wonderful 4 bedroom 2 bath home off of Shepherd Road Volume ceilings, open floor plan, covered porch with fenced yard Short sale: bank approved price of just $130,000.
Wonderful building lots in Lakeland: No deed restrictions in George Jenkins school district, beautiful level treed property with direct street frontage. Asking $59,000. 1.38 acres building lot in Meadow View Oaks area of north Lakeland. Asking just $22,000.
foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
65
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE
Jimmie Robinson - 813-754-3586 ext 222
1513 J. L. Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33563
www.floridamoves.com/jimmie.robinson
E-mail: Jimmie.Robinson@floridamoves.com • toll free 1-877-442-7001
8710 ALAFIA HILLS
2905 FRONTAGE
11704 THONOTOSASSA
3338 SAM ALLEN OAKS
10+ acres Property in area of nice homes. $310,000. MLS#T2433818
18 acres MOL. High and dry property fenced with large home included in need of TLC. Only $225,000. MLS#T2390805
Waterfront Property. Vacant lot with 200 ft on Lake Thonotosassa with large oaks and beautiful view. $325,000.MLS#T2449620.
Beautiful Building Lot. 1+ acre in area of newer family homes. Only a few opportunities left to build here-$149,000. MLS#T2428704
208 E TERRACE DR
ZEPHYRHILLS-SAUNDERS RD
8504 ALAFIA HILLS
20+ acres w/1520 SF building. Reduced to $1,200,000. MLS#T2386723
20+ acres. $250,000. MLS#T2385378
5+ acre lot in area of newer homes. $139,000. MLS#T2433820
5904 PAUL BUCHMAN HWY
7109 KINARD RD
1117 ALAFIA ESTATES
60+ acres. Now only $987,000. MLS#T2399075
5 acre building lot in newer family subdivision. $145,000 MLS#T2433828
20+ acres. Now only $295,500. MLS#T2425622
FORBES RD 20+ acres. Reduced to $494,000 MLS#T2423651
CAMERON RD - CONTRACT PENDING 5 acres fenced w/grandather oaks. $139,000. MLS#T2403156
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january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City
Call us for your Residential, Commercial, and Property Management Needs
813-754-3586 www.floridamoves.com/plantcity
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE
HISTORIC CHARM
GORGEOUS HOME! GREAT PRICE!
Come home to this 1950’s block home in the Historic District of Plant City. Home sits on a corner lot and has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, fireplace, newly updated kitchen and 2 car garage. Near downtown, parks, library and schools. Great neighborhood with no homeowners association dues. This home has 1986 s.f. of true Florida living space. MLS # T2424395. Call Jimmie at 813-390-6441.
Beautiful updated 4 bedroom 3 bath pool home on wooded 1/2 acre lot in prestigious neighborhood. Home features stone counters, solid wood cabinets and crown molding. Home is 4,033 htd s.f. with large rooms and windows to bring the outdoors indoors. Grill on the screened pool deck with friends and neighbors. Lots are larger than Walden Lake subdivision and best of all NO FEES! Price reduced to below appraised value! MLS # T2433760. Call Jimmie at 813-390-6441.
LOWER PRICE = CONTRACT!
LAUREL LAKE CONDO
LUXURY LIVING
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 Greenbalt exemption. MLS # T2390805. Call Jimmie at 813-390-6441
Single family detached condo in private gated community within Walden Lake. 2 Bedroom/2bath/2car garage w/bonus den. Classy new concrete tile roof! Offered at $169,900. Call Maddie @ 813382-8382 to preview.
REDUCED!!! Price reduced $25,000. Gorgeous Inside, Granite Kitchen Counters, Stainless Steel Appliances… Spectacular VIEW!!! So Much More… MOVE-IN READY!!! MLS T2440929. Call Cheryl McDaniel, 813-758-1429.
WELCOME CATHY CASEY! The Plant City office is pleased to announce the addition of Cathy Casey to our team. Cathy brings her experience, knowledge and skills to ensure her customers receive a Truly Remarkable Real Estate Experience. She is a resident of Plant City and is dedicated to her family and community. Please call Cathy today for your real estate needs, 813-727-4131.
The week before Christmas (12/17/10) the Rotary Club of Plant City presented all the children of the Plant City Boys & Girls Club with brand new sneakers. This was the second year the Rotary Club has given the children shoes at Christmas. I will say that it is one of the more gratifying donations that our club makes because we get to see the expression on the children’s faces as they open the gifts.
foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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1507 S. Alexander St. Suite 101 Plant City, FL 33563
PCM
PLANT CITY M O R T G A G E
813.707.6200
C O R P
tely ff were absolu ta s is h d an e “Nat r ad a question o h I e m ti y n A wonderful! within the e s n o p s re a as w concern, there ld nned and I cou la p as d e s lo c hour. My loan I City Mortgage. t n la P h it w r ie not be happ there to guide re e w y e th at l th am so thankfu rchase. I look u p e m o h t rs fi me through my ds CM to my frien P g in d n e m m o c forward to re and family!”
Nate Davis
Natasha Davis
President- Loan Officer
Vice President- Office Manager
Carol Barton Processor
Sincerely, Amy Kornrumpf Jaida & Paitlyn Davis Office Assistants
Paul Pritt
Loan Officer
Barbara Hall Loan Officer
Rick Norman Loan Officer
Don Scarmuzzi Loan Officer
• FHA • Conventional Financing • USDA • Low down payment 5% Down 100% financing 30 year fixed rate Guaranteed Best Rates Available No Down Payment Perfect credit not required No Monthly Mortgage Insurance Seller can pay closing cost • 1st Time Home Buyers tax credit 30 year fixed rate May finance closing costs
january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com
Security
VA No Down Payment No Monthly Mortgage Insurance Best Rates Available
WWW.PLANTCITYMORTGAGES.COM 68
Buster Davis
real estate » walden lake
BLOWOUT SALE ON HOUSE DOORS! Decorative doors from $125-$295.
$500 off retail pricing!
THESE ARE BRAND NEW DOORS NOT USED, SCRATCHED OR DENTED.
HUGE SAVINGS!
OVER 500 DOORS TO CHOOSE FROM!
Walden Lake T
he Walden Lake Community Association Board meetings are held the third Monday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Walden Lake HOA office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting will be January 17th. Meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents. I am often asked about how the Walden Lake Real Estate Market is doing. This month I am providing statistics of what has sold in 2010 in Walden Lake. My information and graph come from our local MLS system. I also searched the tax records and found one sale not done through the MLS system. My information is deemed to be reliable although should always be verified. In the MLS system in 2010, there were 80 sales in Walden Lake, including Walden Lake East. The highest priced home sold for $340,500 in Sutton Woods and the lowest priced home sold in Walden Lake East for $93,000. Twenty-seven or 33% of the Walden Lake homes sold in 2010 were for over $200,000. Twenty-nine homes sold for under $150,000 with 12 selling between $250,000 and $300,000. The average sales price in Walden Lake was $180,421. As of the time of this writing, there were 79 active listings and 14 pending listings. For more information on these statistics, please feel free to contact me at 813-758-9586.
Review submitted By: natalie sweet
2670 Highway 92 East, Plant City, FL Open Mondays - Saturdays: 8:30-5:00
813-752-3378 www.brokepoor.com
Located Between Lakeland and Plant City)
It’s time to renew your membership for the Dog Park, as the locks will be changed on January 14th. If you are not a member and would like to become a member, please contact Bette at the HOA office, 813-7548999 or via email atbetteg@waldenlake. org. The renewal fees are $25 for one dog and $40 for multiple dogs. A key deposit fee of $10 is also required for new members. Don’t forget to replace your sticker with the new sticker you received in December’s invoice mailing (providing you were current). Additional stickers may be purchased for $15 for the 3rd sticker and $25 for each after that. Please contact Bette at the office on Griffin Blvd. The freeze has hit the common areas hard again and will most likely again before the end of the cold season. The plants will not be replaced until after the danger of the heavy freeze has past, which is around the end of March. Although your plants may look unsightly, please remember you should not do any trimming until after the freeze as that will put them in danger should we have another freeze. It’s that time of the year again. If you are walking the path around the lake and you smell something foul, it’s the turkey vultures. The vultures typically leave by the end of February. The path is pressure washed occasionally and the HOA is doing everything possible to keep the scent to a minimum.
The local shop for all your gardening needs! Carrying seeds, plants, fertilizer, chemicals and other supplies to help your garden grow.
813-752-1818
1705 Sammonds Rd, Plant City BrownleeGardenSupply.com
foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
69
E S T A B L I S H E D
M A R C H
1 9 9 6
Plant City CANCER TREATMENT CENTER
real estate » mortgage
(Adjacent to the main entrance of the hospital)
■ Advanced Modern Technology
Randy V. Heysek M.D., F.A.C.R.O. Board Certified in Radiation Oncology
■ Cancer Care Close to Home ■ Prostate Seed Implants ■ Medicare, Medicaid, Most HMO’s
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■ CT Simulation ■ 3-D Conformal Therapy ■ Intensity Modulated Radio Therapy
Board Certified in Radiation Oncology, Internal Medicine & Medical Oncology Co. Director
■ Breast Brachy Therapy
ALL AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CENTER 303 North Alexander Street, Call 813-719-7705 for appts/consultations
51% of women have not considered the financial implications of
retiring alone.
NO EQUITY AND WANT TO REFINANCE NO PROBLEM? I submitted By: nate davis
I can help you save for the future. Women generally live longer than men. But, many plans for retirement don’t take into account higher medical costs, or that
I can help you save formay thebe future. Social Security benefits reduced by 26% .
Women generally live longer than men. But, many plans for Call me today a complimentary reviewmedical of your costs, retirement needs retirement don’tfor take into account higher or that Social Security be reducedsolutions by 26%†offered . and to discussbenefits a varietymay of retirement by Allstate,
such IRAs,for annuities and life insurance. Call meas today a complimentary review of your retirement needs and to discuss a variety of retirement solutions offered by Allstate, Is your financial security Good Hands®? such as IRAs, annuities andinlife insurance. Is your financial security in Good Hands®?
MARK CORNETT (813) 754-2277
MARK CORNETT (813) 754-2277 1701 S ALEXANDER ST. PLANT CITY, FL a057460@allstate.com
1701 N ALEXANDER STREET PLANT CITY a057460@allstate.com *Sixth Annual Allstate “Retirement Reality Check“. †Social Security Administration Social Security’s Future FAQ. Retrieved December 1, 2006, from ssa.gov/qa.htm. “Good Hands” is
a registered service mark of Allstate Insurance Company. Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL, and Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. Securities offered by Personal Financial Representatives through Allstate Financial Services, LLC (LSA Securities in LA and PA). *Sixth Annual Allstate “Retirement Reality Check“. †Social Security Administration Social Security’s Future FAQ. Retrieved December Registered Broker-Dealer. Member FINRA, SIPC. Main Office: Lincoln, NE. ©2009 Allstate Insurance Company. allstate.com.
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1, 2006, from ssa.gov/qa.htm. “Good Hands” is a registered service mark of Allstate Insurance Company. Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL, and Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. Securities offered by Personal Financial Representatives through Allstate Financial Services, LLC (LSA Securities in LA and PA). Registered Broker-Dealer. Member FINRA, SIPC. Main Office: Lincoln, NE. ©2009 Allstate Insurance Company. january 2011 thefocusmagazine.com allstate.com. FIN889
n today’s mortgage markets there are many loan products that exist to help homeowners refinance even if they are “under water” Let’s take a look at a few:
FHA Streamline Refinance – If you currently have an FHA loan, you may refinance WITHOUT an Appraisal! Regardless of what you owe on your home, you can refinance today’s low rates as long as you have made your last 12 monthly mortgage payments on time. These loans are very easy to qualify for and take about 12 days start to finish. VA Interest Rate Reduction Loan – Same as above, but your current loan must be a VA loan. Again, if your home is worth 100k, and you owe 200k on it, so as long as
your last 12 payments have been made on time, you can do it!!!! Fannie Mae DU Refi Plus –This product requires that your existing loan to be a Fannie Mae loan. If so you can refinance your home up to 105% of its value. You will need an appraisal, but if your current loan does not have mortgage insurance and you do over 80% (when you would usually have to add mortgage insurance), then you still WOULD NOT have to add it. Freddie Mac Refi Plus – Same as above except this would require your loan to be a Freddie Mac Loan To determine the type of existing loan you have, contact a mortgage professional to determine if you can refinance despite the potential lack of equity that is typically required for a standard refinance loan.
Cathy MartinAngela Natalie MillerMiller Cathy Natalie Sweet AngelaAngela Miller CathyMartin Martin Natalie Sweet Sweet REALTOR®
® ® REALTOR REALTOR 813-758-9586
813-758-9586 813-758-9586
REALTOR®
® ® REALTOR REALTOR 813-376-0891
813-376-0891 813-376-0891
REALTOR® ®® REALTOR REALTOR 813-546-9863
813-546-9863 813-546-9863
Happy Holidays from The Sweet Team
LUXURY LIVING IN THE COUNTRY 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath, 5100 sq’ home built in 2005 w/tons of upgrades. Featuring gourmet kitchen, oversized dining room, great room w/gas fireplace, & huge media room w/bar on over 1 acre. $569,000 *0% Seller Financing Call for Details!
EXECUTIVE WALDEN LAKE HOME Luxurious & Beautiful is how you would describe this custom home in the Clubhouse neighborhood of Walden Lake. 4 BD 3 BA home, 3 Car Garage, tile roof all with pool and spa overlooking the pond and golf course. Fabulous Kitchen and large family room w/gas fireplace. $299,900
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Search for homes at www.AnotherSweetSale.com 71 foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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2011 Prediction Gradual Real Estate Recovery F
submitted By: jo-ann lusk
rom Washington… Pending home sales rose again in November, according to the National Association of Realtors®, which says a gradual improvement has been the trend for past five months, indicating a gradual recovery into 2011.
10 years. “However, the number of jobs is roughly the same as it was in 2000 when existing-home sales totaled 5.2 million, which appears to be a sustainable figure given the current level of employment.”
“All the indicator trends are pointing to a gradual housing recovery,” Yun said. “Home price prospects will vary depending Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, largely upon local job market conditions. said historically high housing affordability The national median home price, however, is boosting sales activity. “In addition to is expected to remain stable even with a exceptional affordability conditions, steady continuing flow of distressed properties improvements in the economy are helping coming onto the market, as long as there bring buyers into the market,” he said. “But is a steady demand of financially healthy further gains are needed to reach normal homebuyers.” Keep in mind, however, levels of sales activity.” that real estate is local. The median Sold price for the Plant City area is much lower, “If we add 2 million jobs as expected around $125,000 for the past 6 months. in 2011, and mortgage rates rise only moderately, we should see existing-home “As we gradually work off the excess sales rise to a higher, sustainable volume,” housing inventory, supply levels will Yun said. “Credit remains tight, but eventually come more in-line with historic if lenders return to more normal, safe averages, and could allow home prices to underwriting standards for creditworthy rise modestly in the range of 2 to 3 percent buyers, there would be a bigger boost to in 2012,” Yun said. Local forecast experts the housing market and spillover benefits believe the increase to be less than 2%. for the broader economy.” More positively, new-home sales are The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is estimated to rise 24 percent to 392,000 forecast to rise gradually to 5.3 percent in 2011 but remain well below historic around the end of 2011; at the same time, averages, while housing starts are forecast unemployment should drop to 9.2 percent. to rise 21 percent to 716,000. Here in Most recently, the 30-year fixed rate rose Plant City, there are several builders and to 4.86% from 4.81% last week. This is its new developments that are already seeing highest level in 7 months. increased activity as pricing is competitive. It is still a great time to buy! For perspective, Yun said that the U.S. has added 27 million people over the past
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sports » baseball my graduating class and we all knew one another. The friends I had then, I still consider close friends today… Dick Bills, Ellis Long, Toby Murray… great friends.” Rollyson sported a 4-1 record in 1960 helping the Planters to a 14-2 record, a Southwest Florida Conference championship, and All SFC honors. In his senior season, he ended up 7-2, accounting for more than half of the Planters’ 13 victories. The Planters were SFC runnerups and Rollyson, once again, was an All Conference selection. Rollyson turned down college scholarships and a professional contract offer to become a Gator. He tried out for the team as a freshman, was awarded a scholarship, and became a three-year starter and Florida’s #1 hurler. As a junior, Rollyson posted a 3-2 record in 52 innings with a 2.25 earned run average. His ERA still ranks among the top ten in Gator history. In 1966, Rollyson was a preseason All American and became the Gators’ workhorse, pitching nearly 94 innings and picking up seven victories while compiling an ERA of 3.19 and earning All Southeastern Conference honors and All American Honorable Mention. During the college summers, Rollyson played in the Basin League. This was the premiere summer college league located in the Dakotas. He competed against eventual major leaguers Jim Lonborg, Ted Sizemore, and future Hall of Famer Jim Palmer, to name a few.
Gator’s Ace O ne of the best baseball pitchers Plant City has ever produced may be your local insurance agent. From the late 1950s to the mid 1960s, Ray (Rolly) Rollyson put up big numbers on the mound for the Plant City High School Planters and later for the University of Florida Gators before settling back in Plant City to distinguish himself in the insurance business with Moody and Moody and later with Vernon and Rollyson (V & R) Insurance.
Photo courtesy of the Rollyson Family
Planters’ Rollyson became Gators’ Star written By: Joe Bowles
Rollyson, a two-sport star for the Planters was an All Southwest Florida Conference selection as a junior (1959-60) and senior (1960-61) in both basketball and baseball. In basketball, the 6’3 ½” center led Plant City in scoring his senior year, tallying 16 points per game in all contests with a 22.6 points average in conference games. Baseball, however, was his forte’ and his ticket to a free college education in Gainesville. In the late ‘50s, life in Plant City was simpler. It was decades before newspapers
were filled with stories of Bucs, Rays, and Magic. Back then, high school sports were king and column space was given to local athletes who brought the town together in raucous small gymnasiums and diamonds filled with teenagers who dreamed of the big leagues. Lifelong friendships were formed in the dugout and renewed at the games even after graduation.
“In those days, my only desire was to play professional baseball. I was offered another contract but it wasn’t enough, so I decided to go to graduate school,” said Rollyson. As a graduate assistant, Ray was a part of the Gators’ baseball coaching staff. Later, he tried his hand at the high school level, coaching the Hamilton County Rebels to a second place finish in the Florida High School State Basketball Championship, before coming home, starting a family, and coming becoming a successful insurance executive. Rollyson is married to the former Janet Baker. He has two sons, Rhett and Ryan and three grandchildren, Brendan, Tanner, and Rylan.
“Life was so much different then,” Rollyson reminisced. “I went to school with the same kids all my life. We were all close. We probably only had 200 in foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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sports » athlete of the month
written & photo By: Joe Bowles
Aliyah Gregory T
he Strawberry Crest High School girls’ basketball team is one of the better stories in the local sports scene this year. After fifteen games, the Chargers have posted impressive wins over larger schools such as Hillsborough, Bloomingdale, Lake Gibson and Dixie Hollins on their way to an 8-7 record. That’s quite a turnaround when you consider that last year’s team lost 21 games and failed to record a single victory. One of the main reasons for the Chargers’ success has been the play of freshman forward/guard Aliyah Gregory who is averaging 15.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. In the last four games, Aliyah, an excellent ball handler, has scored over 20 points and collected more than 10 rebounds in each contest. “Aliyah is definitely a legitimate Division 1 college prospect,” remarked Chargers head coach LaTosha Lewis. Lewis should know what she is talking about. Lewis was a former All Conference player at Steven. F. Austin State University, a perennial powerhouse in women’s basketball. She helped lead them to the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16 twice and a #5 national ranking along with her recent selection as one of the top 25 players in school history.
Aliyah, the daughter of Ramone and Kim Gregory moved to this area from Detroit in 1999. Aliyah began playing basketball in the Plant City Recreation Department’s basketball program at the age of eight. In fact, her favorite basketball memory relates to a time at the age of 11 when she sank two free throws at the end of the game to clinch a victory and give her team the recreation department’s city championship. Gregory still enjoys playing in the recreation league. For Aliyah, basketball is
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fun and comes easy to her, but that doesn’t mean that she’s not willing to work hard. “I spent this summer trying to get myself better. I really want to play college basketball. If I had my choice, I would play for Louisville or Miami. I’m always working on my game. When I’m not at basketball practice, I’m either doing my homework or shooting hoops. Basketball is all I think about.” It’s not very often that colleges take notice of ninth graders, but Gregory is the exception. This summer she turned heads at three summer camps, including one held at the University of Florida. Her size (5’10”), skill, and hard work have captured a lot of attention. According to Lewis, people in women’s college basketball are aware of Gregory. “Everybody seems to know who she is,” said Lewis. “She has recorded four consecutive double-doubles (double figures in points and rebounds) and leads our team in every statistical category. She also plays for one of the leading travel teams around. She has had college coaches come to watch her play this year. In fact, USF came to her last game. So, her name is out there.” Gregory, whose sister Erin is also a starter for Strawberry Crest, is a 3.0 student and a member of her school’s Quest Club. She has other interests, but her passion is basketball. That passion has helped to erase the woes of Strawberry Crest’s inaugural season and provide leadership on a Chargers’ team filled with underclassmen that, predictably, will become an even bigger story in years to come.
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sports » Baseball team of the month
2418 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL (813) 757-0300 written By: Joe Bowles | photo courtesy of: Mike Knotts entire season. The parents were supportive and the kids came to practice and worked hard.” Last season, Knotts was the coach of a team that went 16-1 and captured first place, but this year was a little different. The Muck Dogs never lost two games in a row, and they put together four-game winning streak, but they also scattered six losses among their nine victories. They were in every game. In fact, four of their losses were by a single run. “Cory Glover was our leading pitcher, but every player contributed. We were steady all year with a real balanced team. We never got blown out of a single game, and we never had a game that I felt our players ever gave up on,” Knotts recalled.
Baseball Team N ormally, the “Beef O’Brady’s Baseball Team of the Month” features a team that has won a tournament, became a league champion, excelled at all-stars, or captured a state or national title. This month is the exception. Let’s have a cheer for a second place team. A team that has adopted the Avis slogan, “We try harder.” For head coach Mike Knotts, that is what he feels his Little League team has done all season. The Muck Dogs were part of a five-team league made up of 11-12 year olds. Four teams were from Plant City and one team was from Pinecrest in an inter-league
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The Muck Dogs beat every team on their schedule at least once. Knotts was especially proud of the effort his team gave against the first place Rock Hounds at the end of the season. The Rock Hounds had already secured first place when the Muck Dogs upset them in their last game of the regular season, highlighted by the first ever homerun by Joshua Boyd.
of the Month
competition arrangement. Plant City Little League has two seasons. The spring season is the more competitive one, but the fall season is just as important. It is often referred to as “the instructional season.” That’s because the emphasis is on teaching more than winning. That doesn’t eliminate the desire to succeed; it just puts it in a better perspective. Alex Hamilton was one of those players who exemplified what the league was trying to accomplish. He was a player who never participated in organized baseball before this fall, and his play improved remarkably as the season progressed.
“Alex was our most improved player,” said Knotts, “but there were a lot of other stories like that in our league, too.” For Knotts, who saw his majors’ team compile a record of 9-6, there were other positives that didn’t show up on the scoreboard. “This was a real pleasant experience. In fact, it was the best experience I’ve ever had in coaching. We had a great group of parents, with real teachable and dependable kids. I really didn’t have any issues with players or their parents the
The Muck Dogs tried harder. That’s what second place teams do. And, at least for one game, they did what all second place teams dream of doing… they beat the best. Muck Dogs players include Cody Glover, Joshua Boyd, Christian Knotts, Victor Figueroa, Chandler Flowers, Benji Hildago, Kenny Hildago, Alex Harrison, Hunter Williams, Blaine Sorrells, Eduardo Lucas, and Jose’ Abarra. Assisting head coach Mike Knotts were coaches Jose’ Jildago and Daryl Flowers
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extra » senior of the month
Calli Jo Parker senior of the month Written By: Brooke Allie
C
over Girl of Plant City High School’s calendar and President of the PCHS Future Farmers of America chapter and the District FFA, Calli Jo Parker is one senior who exemplifies the belief that you can do it all. Calli Jo has been involved in Future Farmers of America since she was at Turkey Creek Middle School. She has always had a love for agriculture and through FFA this love has turned in to a marketable skill. She has dedicated countless hours in preparation for various events concerning FFA and has placed at the state level in Parliamentary Procedures and both the state and national level in Public Speaking. These awards have led her to conferences all over the nation. These experiences have fueled the passion Calli Jo has for FFA and have given her the drive to run for State Office after she graduates high school. FFA has also contributed to Calli Jo’s love for leading and has given her a chance to exercise those skills. Both her freshman and senior years of high school, Calli Jo has been FFA chapter President and her junior and senior years she has been FFA President for the district.
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The leadership skills Calli Jo has acquired have translated into her many other activities. She has been involved in student government all four years of high school, and this year was appointed as parliamentarian of PCHS student council. She also is treasurer of Civinettes, a service club at PCHS with a large outreach in the community. Her community activities are complimented by the organizations with which she chooses to work. She has participated in events with all the aforementioned clubs to benefit the community. From the FFA Beast Feast to being a mentor in Big Brothers Big Sisters, Calli Jo is making sure to leave her mark. To top off her already impressive resume, she was crowned 2011 Cover Girl during the Plant City High School calendar girl fundraiser, proving that her determination is paired perfectly with grace and beauty. Undeniably, Calli Jo Parker is a perfect example of a true southern girl. Born and raised here, with great morals to match, it’s a pleasure to see this senior moving forward in confidence to achieve her dreams
Max Girling senior of the month
Written By: Brooke Allie
M
ax Girling, a Plant City High School senior, is a model student and member of the community. Max spends much of his time giving back and has accumulated more than 225 community service hours, a staggering amount for someone only in high school. This number is just one symbol of his passion for contributing to bigger issues and being an avid participant in our community. Max is an active member in the PCHS Civitan club. He has participated in many community service activities through this club, including their annual canned food drive, which is known for being a very rewarding experience. His community involvment has won him numerous awards including: the Outstanding Youth/ Young Adult Service Award from the Hillsborough Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities in 2009, the Bright House Youth Volunteer Award 2010, the Anne Frank Humanitarian Youth Volunteer Award 2010, and honorable mention for Prudential Youth Volunteer Spirit Award, 2009. Though he has won all of those awards, what Max considers to be the most
rewarding is the program he hosts at Plant City High School. Max is the coordinator and coach for “Tennis Anyone”, an after school free tennis clinic for special needs students. This clinic prepares the student for the Special Olympics and provides time to practice with other kids who have been playing tennis for years. With the program only being in its second year, it has made quite the impact; Max has gone with the special needs students to District and State competition for the Special Olympics two years in a row. He is also a member of Plant City High School’s Best Buddies chapter and enjoys participating in their events throughout the year. “Tennis Anyone”, stemmed from Max’s love for the game of tennis. He has been seeded on the high school team since his freshman year and has attended the District tournament each year. In 2008, he earned a slot on the All District Tennis team and is always working hard to keep up his game. Max plans to major in Criminal Law and eventually become an attorney after studying at the University of Central Florida. His community involvement has instilled good morals into this senior and with that, he will easily continue this selflessness throughout his life.
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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extra » al reuchel
“
Problem is, according to a new financial consumer survey, the vast majority of Americans don’t live within their means
”
Now, reduce your spending by 10 percent, that’s the minimum amount the Congressional Budget Office estimates it would take to keep up with the current level of services. Cut the number of hair cuts you get! Don’t go to so many movies. Eat out less often. Forget the vacation. You figure out where it’s going to come from.
BIG AL’S BUDGET CHALLENGE I Written By: Al Reuchel
know you’ve heard a lot of political leaders complain about government not living within its means and over spending. As our national debt rushes headlong to the 14-trillion dollar mark the new folks we elected to serve in Washington are trying to come up with ways to avoid Armagedon.
“After all,” they say tucking their hands in their back pockets, “Families all have to live within their budgets so should government.” I like that thought. Sort of hits home, doesn’t it?
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Problem is, according to a new financial consumer survey, the vast majority of Americans don’t live within their means. We can all list a dozen reasons for that: kids going to college, you’ve got to have a car to get to work, buying a home isn’t cheap, the girl friend needs an engagement ring equal to three months of my salary, your tooth just cracked and you need a crown. I’ll stop there. Reality in America is that “we the people” on our own--- without government-- are spending an average of 6 percent more per year than we earn. That’s an average and some folks do better than others and some even worse.
So when you tell your elected official we need to trim our spending and lower taxes and increase wages--- you are asking that person to do something you can’t in your own life. I know! Life happens! We have emergencies, deaths, Chinese drywall, blah di blah. So here is my challenge. Folks in Washington say we need to freeze salaries. So freeze yours. Take the same amount of money you made last year and use it to cover all your expenses this year. Put the extra away in a “oh my gosh I can really do this fund”.
Oh, and while you are at it, how about putting aside a few extra dollars to pay of your national debt (home or car loan) a bit sooner. That’s impossible you say? No it’s not. Sure it will hurt and you won’t be happy about it… at least right now. Come the end of the year when you find you have a few extra dollars for Christmas and you didn’t get so skinny you blew away in the wind… and your wife and family still love you.. you may have made a great discovery. Putting together a budget, sitting down and putting it on paper instead of guessing and hoping you have enough to cover your bills can bring you peace of mind. It also makes you a responsible citizen. However, if you can’t stomach this, if the math drives you crazy, if you feel like you are being deprived some kind of national right to spend like a crazy man then stop demanding leaders in Washington get our national books in order. Heck, what’s the difference between 14-trillion and say, 20-trillion. It’s all just a bunch of zeros anyway, isn’t it?
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extra » derek maul No stereotype: Probably the best thing about the preacher’s husband gig is the absence of stereotypical expectations. Simply put, people don’t have preconceptions regarding what I’m supposed to do: there is no wellworn path to follow. We may be in Twenty-first Century, but I still talk with minister’s wives who say they’re expected to, “Play the piano, teach Sunday-school, run the women’s group, clean the church kitchen, organize Vacation Bible School and be their husband’s secretary.” Not so for yours truly - because nobody knows quite what do expect from the preacher’s husband. True, I am excluded from invitations directed to “ministers and their wives”, but the beauty of not occupying a culturally pre-assigned role is the freedom it gives me to simply follow Jesus. My mother-in-law, Nell Alexander, gave me this advice when Rebekah was called to her first church. “Derek: love the Lord, love the preacher, love the people. If you get that right, everything else should fall into place.” The other thing she said was, “If the preacher brings home extra folk for dinner unannounced, you can always cope by cooking extra biscuits.”
Choosing who to follow T
in 2011
Written By: derek maul
wo years ago I started my first blog. The eponymous site is an on-line journal, where people look over my shoulder and read what’s going on with my life.
I’ve posted over 600 entries to date, around five new items per week. The experiment has generated some interest, somewhere around 1,000 hits every month. You can check it out if you’re interested, just log in via DerekMaul.com and click on “Today’s Blog Entry.” My blog features great photographs, plus some of my best writing –the same kind of
content presented on this page. But it’s a journal, so most people don’t even bother to take the first look. The sites people go to in droves tend to feature scandal, controversy, juicy gossip, famous people or writing of more topical interest. Well I’m not that interested in negatives. But it does make sense to write about topics that generate attention. So I scratched my head and came up with a subject I’m well qualified to address but may well raise a few eyebrows. The new blog is called, “The Preacher’s Husband;” you can find it at www.preachershusband. blogspot.com.
Bingo! I had more hits in the first couple of days than I’d hoped for in a month. It turns out that people are interested in what it means for a guy to be married to the pastor of a church. To tell the truth, I’d like to have known the answer to that question back when Rebekah and I started dating. But, occasional incidents of prejudicial thinking and lapses into male chauvinism aside, the overwhelming weight of my experience has been positive. I’ve been married to a preacher for close to three decades – and I have the stories to prove it!
My freedom has given me pause. So much of what we do in life, cradle to grave, happens under the unyielding scrutiny of social norms. Many of these standards have less to do with what is “right”, or “Christian” than they have to do with what has become de rigueur for North American culture. That’s why neither my wife nor I complain about the challenges of our non-standard life. Everything we’ve done, from my years as stay-at-home dad to her position as senior pastor at a vibrant church, has been free from the strictures of cultural stereotype. The apostle Paul put it this way: “If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the universe, why do you live as if you still belonged to the world? Why do you submit to regulations?” (Colossians 2:20). It’s a good question for this New Year.
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extra » ken lawrence
Throwing OutA report Baby With the about controversial Earmarks in Congress Bath Water? T submitted By: ken lawrence
hey have been vilified in the news media, especially during the recent “lame-duck” session of Congress. We’re writing about the so called EARMARKS, the slush fund that Congressional members have access to and could disperse just about any way they want. The system has been so wrought with potential misuse or downright fraud, it could finally be on its way out, mainly due to the Tea Party that has been screaming about Earmarks since this faction of the Republican Party came into being.
Grants to individuals, schools, hospitals, or businesses. There’s little or no auditing of these expenditures. Over a dinner or a drink, members can get together and agree to support each other’s Earmarks, whether they make any sense or not. The beneficiaries are usually individuals or corporations that support the respective members, especially with campaign donations and manpower at election time. There have been several incidents over the years where bribes were paid and Congressmen went to jail.
such a furor that it was canceled. Is There Anything Good About EARMARKS? Defenders of Earmarks claim that directing money for a specific purpose is a major function of Congress. They say if Congressional members do not make an Earmark request, the job will be done by non-elected bureaucrats and there is no guarantee what might happen.
Proponents of Earmarks state that Presidents and Executive Officials in Washington previously used Earmarks to reward friends and punish enemies. (That’s How about funds to study “Pig Flatulence” not to say Congress cannot do the same in the Carolinas? Given the state of thing, but at least they are accountable) The system is so confusing that there are unemployment in the country, there would no real hard numbers to indicate how probably even be a long line to apply for The process of earmarking has been much Earmarks cost taxpayers every year. that job. All one would need would be a substantially reformed in recent years. The best we can determine from our keen sense of smell. Many members have instituted an research is anywhere from $11 billion to applications process that their constituents $20 billion for 2010. That may even be low. How about the approval of a $50 million must undergo for earmark requests. Earmark back in 2006 to build an indoor Earmarks do not necessarily have to be rain forest in the State of Iowa? The Members of Congress must post all their government projects that are funded with project is DEAD. requests on their websites and they must direct funds to a contractor, without going sign a certification letter indicating that through the Bidding Process, which is Probably the most Infamous was the neither they nor their spouse has any bad enough. They can also include huge “Bridge to No Where” in Alaska that financial interest in the matter. tax breaks to a company or individual and was supposed to link a small island of 50 slipped into the back of all manner of residents to the mainland and which was Locally, it has been difficult to determine bills that go through either the House of what, if any Earmarks have been directed already connected by an adequate ferry Representatives or the Senate. Another service. The almost $400 million earmark to Plant City and area. Phone calls to favorite scheme is so-called Research by then Senator Ted Stevens, created Congressman Gus Bilirakis at his Plant
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City, Palm Harbor and Washington offices were never returned after we explained to the receptionist what we were calling about. Plant City, City Manager Greg Horwedel, who is always available to FOCUS, could not recall any specific Earmarks that this area has received. The Police and Fire Departments have been given grants from various federal agencies, particularly Justice and Homeland Security. However, they are not considered Earmarks. The City Manager says he welcomes assistance from Washington and suggests Earmarks would be more acceptable to everyone if there was closer and more open scrutiny of these projects. As of now, Earmarks are on the shelf for at least a year, but that has happened before. When the political heat dies down, out they come again. However, that was the history of Earmarks when there was no Tea Party. Sarah Palin and company say they will keep elected leaders’ “feet to the fire” and maybe, just maybe, a better and more honest system of paying for local projects will emerge.
501 S. Alexander Street , Plant City, FL 33563
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All major credit cards accepted foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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extra » Auto Review
Solid, Stable and Roomy I
2011 Traverse Delivers
submitted By: Brian West
n 2010, the Chevrolet Traverse was a Consumers Digest “Best Buy.” It was selected in the full-size crossover SUV category with 3 foreign models as the only competition: Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-9, and HyundaiVeracruz. Three trim levels are available: LS, LT and LTZ. Like other SUVs, the choice of captain’s chairs has a big impact to the functionality of the vehicle, and every time, the expense seems to be a seat, which is no different with the Traverse. Just don’t expect to be seating 6-footers in the rear – at least comfortably. Seat everyone tallest to shortest, from front to back and you should be fine. Under the hood, the Traverse has a 3.6-liter V-6 with 281-horsepower.
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Couple this with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control and you have all the power you need in an SUV. If you bump up to the LTZ trim, you get a little more horsepower, 288-horsepower to be exact. One of the interesting options with the trim levels on the Traverse is that all levels give the buyer the option of front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. The Traverse delivers 16-17 mpg in the city and 23-24 mpg on the highway. And with gas prices on the rise again – predicted to hit $4/gallon by summer 2011 – ouch, mileage is important. On the exterior, the Traverse didn’t see much change for 2011. Although Chevrolet calls the Traverse a midsize SUV, its 205 inches of overall length make
it slightly longer than the Chevrolet Tahoe. But the long wheelbase and wide wheel set provide for a smooth and stable ride. It feels really solid. Something unique to the Traverse in its class is 7.2 inches of ground clearance. Talk about not having to worry too much about what you drive over. The body has soft, rounded edges, unlike some of the competition, which may explain the popularity of the Traverse. It keeps the same sleek styling with 17, 18 or 20 inch wheels, depending on the trim level. On the interior, Traverse is equipped with satellite radio, MP3/CD player with an auxiliary audio jack and the 2LT trim package includes a 10-speaker Bose stereo system, and a rearview camera. I haven’t found a Bose system yet I didn’t like,
and the rearview cameras are becoming more and more popular. The interior is roomy when the seats are folded down – more than 117 cubic feet of cargo space. Minivans have power side doors, but the Traverse has a power rear liftgate, which is very convenient when your arms are full with groceries or little ones. Driving the Traverse was fun. It’s very stable and responsive. The transmission is smooth through all six gears. One nice feature I can speak to is the size of the fuel tank. The 22-gallon capacity is well suited for long drives before fill up, which is great for family road trips. If you’re interested in a Traverse, stop by Stingray Chevrolet. Tell them you read the review in Focus Magazine.
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entertainment » dining profile
Westshore Pizza T he 10-foot-wide menu visible on the wall as customers enter Westshore Pizza sets the tone for what you’re in for- a ton of food at competitive pricing and a guarantee that everybody will leave feeling satisfied.
Re-opened in October of last year, the restaurant is newly owned and operated by the endearing Plant City couple, Cheryl and Hany Hosny. “We both have a passion for cooking,” said Cheryl. Her family has owned a restaurant since she was seven years old. “What sets us apart, I believe, from other restaurants is that we make our dough every day, and we hand-toss it every day... we’re not cookie cutter. We actually take the time to make stuff fresh every day.” Remodeled from top to bottom, the Hosnys came in, tore down the old walls, and replaced everything, and then added custom-built furniture. Board games like chess, checkers, and bingo are available for people to play while they enjoy their pizza.
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New Management Brings Fun Food to Plant City written By: John Ross
The restaurant is happy to provide a variety of fun food like Hoagies, Chicken Wings, Baked Sandwiches, and “NY Style Pizza with a Philly Twist.” A variety of different half-pound burgers and combo meals are also featured on the wall menu. Cheryl was pleased to let FOCUS taste some of the food Westshore Pizza serves. We began with a variety of their breakfast pizza - a warm hand-tossed dough crust topped with eggs, bacon, and a thin layer of gravy through the middle of the pizza. Nothing is greasy about the pizza and everything can be tasted, especially the delicious gravy - this is far removed from something processed like a fast-food breakfast sandwich. We were surprised. The thick red sauce makes the baked spaghetti delicious with the hint of tang most enjoy in pizza sauce. The spaghetti was topped with plenty of cheese, too. We had an 18” NY Style Pizza with pepperoni, cheese, ham, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers. The dough tasted fresh and was soft. At
a foot-and-a-half in diameter, customers who order this won’t leave hungry. The Philly Cheese Steak sandwich is served on the roll to end all rolls (a hallmark of Westshore is the superior bread, dough, etc.). The famed Amoroso’s rolls are legendary for taste and softness - I have never had softer bread. This texture allows for you to bite right down to the steak and cheese. The hot wings are a major “hit” at Westshore Pizza. Wing snobs like myself appreciate just the right amount of meat on a hot wing - that is, plenty, but not so much that it feels like you’re eating a chicken leg. These wings were so consistent in size that it was as if a bunch of chicken farmers stood there and stared at a thousand chickens while holding stopwatches, and at the exact critical moment, one yelled, “Now!” and they were harvested right then. Sprinkled visibly with black pepper and hot sauce, they are yummy and tender. Ken’s Blue Cheese is, in my opinion, the best blue cheese one can find, and it is served with the wings at Westshore Pizza.
Westshore Pizza 1701 S. Alexander Street Plant City, FL (813) 754-5600 Breakfast Hours: Mon - Fri 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Lunch & Dinner Hours: Sun - Thu 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Fri - Sat 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Sunday 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. The Hosny’s are new members of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce and are highly supportive of those who serve in uniform. For police reading this, here’s the huge punch line - come in at anytime for a free slice of pizza and a drink! In addition, receive 25% off everything else on the menu. Firefighters and paramedics receive discounts of 20% off everything, always. Since hearing of this the other day, I have registered for school to be a cop! Stop in now for any two slices of pizza and a drink for $5.49.
» dining guide
special advertisement
chili’s
C
hili’s has been spicing things up since 1975. There is something for everyones taste. From sizzling chicken or beef fajitas, fired grilled classic burgers or the new honey chipotle baby back ribs that are slow smoked over pecan wood so they’re “fall-off-the-bone” tender with a bold new honey-chipotle flavor that’s impossible to resist. Call in or come in, your always welcome at Chili’s.
3001 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 813-764-8548 • www.chilis.com
cowboy’s saloon and steakhouse
C
owboys Steakhouse and Saloon features a restaurant for meat-loving southerners to enjoy southern cooking and a connected saloon to line dance in afterwards. Inside everything is wooden from the floors to ceiling. Come in and enjoy juicy steaks,but don’t forget about our fresh baked sour-dough, and other appetizers and entrees that are sure to make your mouth water.
106 State Road 60 E. Plant City, FL 33567-9253 813- 650-8888
Esposito Pizza
S
traight from Naples, Italy Michael Esposito and Michael Jr. bring you authentic Italian pizza and other delicious items. This family owned and operated business brings 25 years of experience, traditional family recipes, and the freshest ingredients to the plate. Stop in to taste for yourself the calzones, unique pizza topping combinations, mouthwatering garlic knots and other Italian dishes.
2803 James Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 813-704-5971
fred’s southern kitchen
F
red’s Southern Kitchen is homemade cooking at its finest. We are proud to offer the best in family dining with recipes that have been developed from a 50 year Johnson family restaurant tradition. You’ll find crispy fried catfish and chicken, smoked ribs, homemade soups, fresh salads, casseroles, desserts, made from scratch entrees, along with our signature Southern vegetables.
1401 W. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33565 813-752-7763 • www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com www.Facebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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» dining guide
special advertisement
kazbors
N
ew menu and new owners make a great blend for mouth-watering food, great drinks, friendly service and perfect family atmosphere. Not only is Kazbor’s is the best bar and grill in town to go to for lunch or dinner, but they’ve got the best wings for game night and some of the best drink prices around! Happy Hour is every day from 3-7pm and Thursdays are all you can eat wings for $9.95. With 20 TV’s and the NFL Sunday ticket, you’ll never miss a game!
2212James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-2700
mi casa
M
i Casa Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant dedicated to serving the finest foods and atmosphere of Mexico and the Southwest. We serve lunch and dinner, and proudly feature Fajitas, Enchiladas, Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas, Chiles Rellenos and Chimichangas, as well as other specialties of the house. In addition, we offer a wide variety of margaritas, beer and drinks to accompany your favorite meal. And best of all, at prices that are affordable to almost anyone. We’ve been voted Best Mexican by the Focus RCA awards five years in a row!
2613 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 813-752-0057• www.micasamex.com
olde town pizzeria
I
f you love deep-dish pizza, Olde Town Pizzeria is the only place around to find it. The cheesy Chicago-style pizza is a popular item on the menu, as well as the Award Winning Strawberry Walnut Salad and thin crust pizzas. In addition, they have an array of delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches to satisfy all taste buds. This family owned and operated restaurant is a Plant City favorite for those who love high quality food and friendly service.
3011 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • www.oldetownpizzeria.com
Plant City Hometown Buffet
P
lant City Hometown Buffet is a family owned and operated business started by Elaine Vo, a resident of Plant City for the last 24 years. They offer a wide variety of items spanning the five buffet bars, including seafood and steak. There is certainly something to fit every taste preference, whether you’re looking for fried chicken or a plethora of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Stop in and see everything they have to offer at their very affordable prices!
1914 James L Redman Parkway plant city, fl 33563 813-754-4488
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» dining guide
special advertisement
the red rose dining room
T
he Red Rose Dining Room is the only 5-star rated restaurant in Plant City. Mrs. Evelyn Madonia invites you to allow Executive Chef Matteo Casini to take your taste buds on a delicious journey. Enjoy an elegant setting and beautiful atmosphere for lunch or dinner. Tuesday and Wednesday evenings feature an all you can eat prime rib and seafood buffet. On the weekends you can catch fabulous entertainment (visit the website for upcoming shows).
2011 N Wheeler St Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-3141 • www.redroseinnandsuites.com
westshore pizza
H
any and Cheryl Hosny are the proud new owners of the Plant City Westshore Pizza. Stop in and see the beautiful renovation they have done to the store! In addition, they have brought with them Bobby V’s original Westshore Pizza recipes that are the best in town! Stop in to try a slice, grab a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, or just come meet the new family behind the great flavor!
1701 S Alexander St Plant City, FL 33566 813-754-5600 • www.westshorepizza.com
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO THE THIRD ANNUAL CELEBRITY CHEF DINNER Presented by Gordon Food Service Benefiting the United Food Bank of Plant City
Featured Chef: Celebrity Chef Jon Ashton February 12, 2011 • 7:00 p.m. • Hillsborough Community College Trinkle Center 1206 North Park Road • Plant City For more information, please contact the United Food Bank at (813) 757-9809
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www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com
Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer.
facebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen
foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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entertainment » red rose for its luxury suites and state rooms for perfect overnight and weekend getaways. Amenities included with rooms are a complimentary breakfast, full service restaurant, full service lounge, pool area, health spa and more. For more information about upcoming concerts and shows, dining, and overnight options, visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com. The Red Rose Inn and Suites is conveniently located at 2011 N. Wheeler Street, Plant City 33563. Phone (813) 752-3141 for additional details.
“
Batista Madonia, Sr. and Evelyn Madonia pictured with George Galfo’s Mystics. The Mystics presented the Madonia’s with honorary group jackets. Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites
Ringing in the New Year Red Rose Inn and Suites Style T written By: kelleigh klein
he Red Rose Inn and Suites New Year’s Eve Party was the perfect place to ring in the New Year. On Friday evening, December 31st 2010, the Red Rose Inn Convention Center boasted tables festively decorated with balloons, party hats and noisemakers and a team of dedicated wait staff eager to create a magical evening for guests. Party goers would enjoy a perfectly created New Year’s Eve Celebration, Red Rose Inn and Suites Style. The evening included a full schedule of top hits performed by Destiny (who appear weekly at the Red Rose Inn and Suites), the Mystics, Rick Larrimore the Ultimate Rod Stewart, and Jack Berrios performing the best of Neil Diamond. Throughout the evening the dance floor was filled with guests enjoying upbeat favorites as well as romantic ballads that took couples back in time. The musical genres provide something for everyone. In addition to great entertainment, guests were treated to a five star dining experience as prepared by Chef Matteo Casini and team, and fun with family and friends. During the celebration, a special surprise was presented to Batista Madonia, Sr. He was presented with an official George Galfo’s Mystics jacket.
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The Red Rose Inn and Suites and Mrs. Evelyn Madonia creatively craft great entertainment and an impeccable dining experience for guests throughout the year.
”
Shortly after, Mrs. Evelyn Madonia was presented with an official jacket as well and invited to become an honorary Mystic. At midnight, guests counted down, sang Auld Lang Syne and toasted the New Year with champagne toast. It was a perfect evening! The Red Rose Inn and Suites and Mrs. Evelyn Madonia creatively craft great entertainment and an impeccable dining experience for guests throughout the year. In fact, the Red Rose Inn and Suites provides musical entertainment 52 weeks a year. It is the perfect venue for top dinner, dancing and entertainment selections for individuals, couples and groups every weekend. Typically, there is no cover charge to attend the weekend concerts.
Rick Larrimore the Ultimate Rod Stewart
Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites
Coming to the Red Rose in January is Jim Stafford. Jim is known for top hits like “Spiders & Snakes”, “Swamp Witch,” and “My Girl.” He will perform on January 15th. Another great upcoming show on January 22 is “A Night in Vegas with Las Vegas Hall of Fame Entertainer, Bob Anderson. Bob is known not simply for being a singer, but also as an entertainer and impressionist. In addition to great concerts and dining, the Red Rose Inn and Suites is famous
Hundreds of guests enjoy a New Year’s Eve celebration Red Rose Inn and Suites style. Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites
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entertainment » artist of the month Photo by Heather Davis
Artful Giving I t would be hard to miss the bright yellow jeep with the colorful art easels on the doors seen driving around town by Punk and LouAnn Watson. Both of the Watsons are established artists in the local area who are dedicated to the promotion of the arts in Plant City. Unlike LouAnn, Punk was not always an artist. He spent many years admiring his wife’s artwork, watching over her shoulder, all the while wishing he could be an artist. It was not until Punk participated in a drawing class LouAnn was teaching that he decided to try his hand at creating art. He’s never looked back. Punk first became a member of the Hillsborough Art Guild in order to support his wife’s art, even before he started his own artwork. Before long he was deeply involved in many aspects of
Local Artist Promotes Art in Plant City written By: Heather Davis
the Guild while embarking in his own artistic endeavors. As a member of the Art Guild, Punk has served as an officer, as well as the Art Guild President for three years. He is currently the Exhibition Chairman and is in charge of numerous events including the Christmas Art Show, the Strawberry Festival Art Exhibits and the Arts in the Park at Waldon Lake. Punk and LouAnn are members of the Art Lounge Gallery in downtown Plant City. They both take an active role in supporting and maintaining all the events and responsibilities surrounding the Gallery. Recently in combination with the Hillsborough Art Guild and the Art Lounge Gallery, they both helped to facilitate a scholarship program for art students that provides art lessons and supplies.
artists. Meanwhile he is growing strong in his own art through dedication and commitment. Punk’s preferred medium is acrylic, but he also likes to work with oils and watercolors. He is drawn to creating depictions of lighthouses and historic buildings, and enjoys creating art he refers to as “Punkism”, which is not realism or impressionism, but something from his own head.
Punk credits art to helping him look at life differently by providing him with a means to create. As a result, he has opened up to the world and people around him. As an artist, Punk is truly excited by the ability to create and loves to help others do the same.
Photo by Heather Davis
As an artist, Punk is always looking for a way to help and promote other foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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entertainment » event calendar
plant city
calendar of events
If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to: editorial@floydpublications.com
Monday, January 17, 2011 » Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Thursday, January 20, 2011 » Ed Verner in concert Time: 7:30 p.m. Description: Reception at 7:30; Concert at 8:00 p.m. Venue: Photo Archives & History Center, 106 S. Evers Street Tickets: Admission is $50.00, reservations required due to limited seating » Business After Hours Time: 5:15 Hosted by: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Venue: 4307 Sterling Commerce Drive
Friday, January 21, 2011 to Sunday, January 23, 2011 » Central Florida Grace Conference Time: 7:00 p.m. Description: Speakers will focus on the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible, first published in 1611. Venue: Red Rose Inn and Suites Tickets: Free to Public Info: For more information call Ron Thomson at 813-973-8992, Duane Findley at 813-7165031, or go to www.richesofgrace.com
Saturday, January 22, 2011 » Little Italy Night Time: 4:30 - 7 p.m. Description: Pasta Dinner includes: salad, entree, dessert & beverage Venue: St. Clements Catholic Church, Fr. Cronin Hall, 1104 N. Alexander Street Tickets: Donation: $8.00 Adults; $4.00 Children (10 and under) For information and tickets contact: Helen Galloway 707-9459, Ceil Herrmann 659-0068 or Irene Farmer 759-2188.
Sunday, January 23, 2011 » 1st United Methodist Church Wesley Centre Grand Reopening Time: 8 a.m. to Noon. Description: Much work has gone into refurbishing the Wesley Centre. Come celebrate with us.
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Venue: 1st United Methodist Church, 303 N. Evers Street Tickets: Free and Open to Public
Thursday, February 3, 2011 » Plant City Garden Club Annual Flower Show Time: 5 - 8 p.m. Description: This year’s theme, “Give Our Regards to Broadway” features creative floral designs and beautiful horticulture with titles from various famous Broadway Musicals such as Phantom of the Opera; Oklahoma; Lion King and many more. Venue: Walden Lake Golf and Country Club, Tickets: Viewing is Free to the public. Reservations required for dinner. Please call 813-1171 ext 27.
Thursday, February 3, 2011 and Thursday, February 10, 2011 » Natural Beauty from Home Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m. Description: Learn to make natural beauty products from items in your pantry or fridge! ONLY a TWO DAY Class, Venue: Plant City Planteen, 301 Dort Street Tickets: Fee of $20 for both sessions includes supplies.
Saturday, February 5, 2011 » Flea Market at Strawberry Square, Time:8- Noon. Description: Recycled Square dance clothes, tools, crafts, household, and misc. items. Tickets: Free *Outside Vendors welcome. For information, please call Pat or Roger at 813719 2237. www.strawberrysquaredancing.com » Little Miss Plant City Contest Registration Time: 8 - 11 a.m. Description: Open to girls, ages 8-10 years as of February 1, 2011. Registration fee is $50. Venue: Plant City Woman’s Club, 1110 N. Wheeler Street, Plant City, 33564 Tickets: Tickets available at registration for $10; Limit of 4 reserved seats per family. » Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Contest Saturday February 5, 2011 6:00 p.m. Expo Building Strawberry Festival Grounds.
» Strawberry Distance Challenge Hosted by: Plant City Church of God Soul’d Out 7:00 AM Walden Lake Polo Club For more information please call the church office 752-4591
Monday, February 14, 2011
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
» Business After Hours/Anniversary Party Hosted by FOCUS Magazine Time: 5:15 Venue: Keel and Curley Winery 5202 W. Thonotosassa Road For more information call 813-707-8783
» Leadership Plant City Time: 8:00 a.m. Description: Government, Environment, Parks & Recreation Venue: Plant City Chamber of Commerce Tickets: Free
Saturday, February 12, 2011 » Celebrity Chef Dinner Presented by Gordon Food Service Benefiting the United Food Bank of Plant City Time: 7:00 PM Venue: Trinkle Center Hillsborough Community College Tickets: Call 813-757-9809 for more information
Sunday, February 13, 2011 » 2nd Annual Daddy Daughter Date Nite Sponsored by: Planteen Recreation Center Time: 4 - 7 p.m. Description: Dad’s, Grandfather’s, Uncles & Guardians! Enjoy a mystical and memorable evening with your Daughter, Granddaughter or Niece. Buffet and refreshments will be available. Price includes food, entertainment and a keepsake photo! Venue: Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road Tickets: $25.00 per couple $10.00 for each additional daughter. Registration deadline is February 7. Reservations available at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort Street. For more information contact Chris Wilsman at 813-659-4256.
» Valentine’s Day
thursday, February 17, 2011
ONGOING EVENTS: » Red Rose Inn & Suites - Every Monday Learn to Dance with Susan 7 - 9 p.m. 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) » Red Rose Inn & Suites - Every Tuesday & Wednesday 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 all the trimmings! All this plus salads and desserts to tempt the most demanding palates! Music by Free Time Jazz. » Red Rose Inn & Suites - Every Thursday 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. » Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd., Plant City A full schedule of Square and Round Dancing is happening every day at Strawberry Square. We have many callers and cuers on the schedule. Visit our website: www.strawberrysquaredancing.com or call 813-752 0491 for dates and times. www.strawberrysquaredancing.com
Isn’t it beautiful? Let’s keep it that way!
WHY WAIT HOURS? WHEN WE FILL RX’s IN 5-10 MINUTES!
FOR FREE MEDICATION DIABETES PROGRAM Up To 30 Day Supply METFORMIN 500MG, 850MG & 1000MG TABS Max Qty. 60 GLIPIZIDE 5MG & 10MG TABS Max Qty. 60 GLIMEPERIDE 1 MG, 2 MG & 4 MG TABS Max Qty. 30 CHLORPROPAMIDE 100MG TABS Max Qty. 30 PROGRAM FREE ANTIBIOTIC
Up To 7 Day Supply AMOXICILLIN ( CAPS & SUSPENSION) AMPICILLIN BACTRIM/SEPTRA DS ( TABS & SUSPENSIONS) CEPHALEXIN ( CAPS & SUSPENSIONS) CIPROFLOXACIN TABS ( EXCLUDES XR FORMULATION) DOXYCYCLINE HYC 100MG CAPS PEN-VK 500MG TABLET 20 ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE & ETHYL SUCCINATE
•Free Delivery and Pick UP •All major Insurances accepted NOW •Best Cash Prices in Town •Compounding (non-sterile) •Fast and Friendly Service! - Accurate Prescription Filling •Share our Knowledge & Advice For Your Better Health •Transfer Your Prescriptions! It’s Easy! •We promise to take the time to explain your prescription •We’ll help you understand your medications •We will check for interactions with your vitamins, medications, and allergies •Take home a bottle of vitamin C free with your prescriptions. Ask the pharmacist how vitamin C can be beneficial to you!
813-703-1500 NEXT TO WATSON CLINIC
OPEN! Better care... for a better community
Hours: M-F 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Your Health is Our Priority
Come and meet our fast and friendly pharmacist with 10 years of experience Meena Kukreja R.ph- MBA
607 E. Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 (NEXT TO WATSON CLINIC)
PROGRAM $3.99 MEDICATION
The formulary list of the program may be subject to get modified or discontinued without prior notice. The brand names of the drugs in the list are for reference purpose only.The dispensed drug will be generic or as permitted by law. See pharmacist for more details (*For these products check with pharmacist).
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foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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Wood Grain, Vinyl and Laminate are now offered by Williford Flooring Company in addition to our great selection of Hardwood Flooring
Monday - Friday 9-5:30 Saturday and evenings by appointment
863-858-5612
4820 Hwy 98 N • Mayflower Plaza • Lakeland, FL lwillfloor@verizon.net
Since 1946
www.willifordflooring.com foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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entertainment Âť crossword
fun with phrases created By: Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews
Assisting You in YouR Home!
Homemaker &
C
Helping HAnds cARing HeARts inc. cy Agen ion n pa om
Cooking Transportation Light Housekeeping & Much More!
Plant City 813-737-6706 Lakeland 863-812-4752
Leonard@helpinghandcaringhearts.com
helpingufl.com
Locally Owned & Operated Lic # 230092
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It’s Sunday Morning. This Call Is
The Last Thing You Expect.
It’s your father calling from his vacation in Mexico. As soon as you hear his voice, you know something terrible has happened. He says your mother’s gone. An auto accident on a coastal road. His voice cracks, and you begin to worry about how to get both of them home. The Dignity Memorial® network offers you more services than anyone else in America, like Away From Home Protection®. It will get your loved ones home when tragedy strikes, no matter where they are in the world.* The Dignity Memorial network: America’s leading funeral homes and cemeteries, united to bring you the services you need when it matters most. ®
You need to know a Dignity Memorial® provider.
www.DignityMemorial.com ®
Away From Home Protection | 24-Hour Compassion Helpline | National Transferability Bereavement Travel | Personal Planning Services | Grief Support Veterans Benefits | Child & Grandchild Protection
Call today to learn what your Dignity Memorial provider can do for you. Plant City locations include:
Wells Memorial Funeral Home
813-752-1111 1903 West Reynolds Street Plant City FL
*Away from Home Protection is offered by American Pre-Arrangement Services Inc. Death must occur more than 75 miles from permanent residence. Not available for purchase in KY, NY, NJ, OR, Alberta, or British Columbia, Canada.
foCUS Magazine Plant City january 2011
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Hold on to your money.
Get your taxes done free. If you or anyone you know earned less than $50,000 in 2010, you’re eligible to get your taxes prepared and filed for free. Trained tax preparers will help you get the credits you deserve, including the earned income tax credit. The instant tax refunds you’ve heard of are really high interest loans. So save your money and let us do your taxes free at more than 25 Hillsborough County locations.
Free tax preparation sites open Jan. 2011.
Call 2-1-1 for the location near you. And hold on to more of your money.
www.unitedwaytampabay.org/freetaxhelp
Find us on Facebook. Follow us @ UWTB on Twitter.
Dr Jack Sharpe Presents
THE FAMILY THAT GOD GIVES FEBRUARY 19, 2011 9AM -4 PM
“Black & White Affair”
you decide how creative or formal and enjoy a Gourmet dinner, dancing and silent auction.
When: Saturday Feb 26th Where: Evangelical Presbyterian Church 1107 Charlie Griffin Rd, Plant City Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Lunch and Childcare Included
Location: Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Plant City 1107 Charlie Griffin Road 759-9383 For ticket information please call church office
$20 per person Call for reservations and ticket info: 813-759-9383 Limited seating All proceeds benefiting EPC Youth Ministeries
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2011 BUICK REGAL
Lease a new 2011 Regal with Loyalty for as little as @229 per month with $1789 due at signing. 39 month/39000 miles, tax, tag, license & dealer fees extra.
Send us your best Valentine story Win $200.00 Cash!!!
Congratulations to Tristyn Wolfe for wining $200 for her Thanksgiving story
competition is open to any one in the Plant City area. deadline for entry is Feb. 5th, 2011.
send your story to:
Focus Magazine 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr.Blvd Plant City Florida 33563 or e-mail to hfarmer@floydpublications.com
9740 Adamo Dr (SR60)• Tampa, FL 33619 Please Visit Our New Site
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JARRETT-SCOTT FORD COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY •
Because at Jarrett-Scott Ford, we take pride in 15 years of customer satisfaction.
•
Because Jarrett-Scott Ford has won the prestigious Ford President’s Award 9 times.
•
Because Jarrett-Scott Ford has a staff of 60 employees from our area who are dedicated to quality and who will treat you like family.
•
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Because while others say no to credit and no to leasing, Jarrett-Scott Ford will work hard to get you the financing options you need.
Quality, innovation, safety and fuel efficiency. That’s what you’ll get with a Ford vehicle. At Jarrett-Scott Ford, we carry a full line of the latest models. And our expert sales staff will help you get behind the wheel of the Ford that’s right for you.
•
Because at Jarrett-Scott Ford, our team of technicians, including ASE-certified mechanics, is here to address all your preventative maintenance and service needs. Now and down the road.
2000 East Baker St. | Plant City, FL 33563 | 800-545-2018 WWW.JARRETTSCOTTFORD.COM
888-533-0777
1475 W Main St. • Bartow, FL 33830
www.BartowChevrolet.com