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september 2011 focusplantcity.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Table of Contents 28 15 20 25 92 35

Volume 10 Issue 9 • September 2011

focusplantcity.com

15-35 Local

The good folks of Plant City are never without fun things to do and great ways to help the community. Enjoy this month’s stories about the YMCA Strong Leader Award and their upcoming annual luau fundraiser, the Area 6 New Teacher Coffee, the 3rd Annual Garden Fest preview, and the grand opening of the SFBH Cancer Center, among others.

38 Spotlight interview

Meet Dr. Larry Britt and Dr. Carrie Porter of Roadrunner Veterinary Clinic, whose practice will soon become known as Central Florida Equine Associates. One of the many ways they give back is to host educational seminars for the owners of farm animals that serve our agricultural industry.

41-46 business focus

The strong support of Plant City residents to its community translates often into “Shop Local.” Learn about four businesses who work their passion to enhance our lives: Curves, Septic Pros, the Huntington Learning Center, and Plant City Automotive.

92 Dining profile

Focus enjoyed sampling some of the new items on the recently update menu at Johnson Barbeque. The tradition continues and expands. Always, you can count on the Johnson family to serve it up right. 51 - Home guide 53 - Walden Lake Column 54 - Mortgage column 58 - Real Estate 63 - Finance Column 70 - Sports 72 - Athlete of the month 75 - Baseball team of the month 84 - Al reuchel column

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

86 - Derek Maul Column 89 - Auto Review 93 - Dining Guide 99 - REd Rose Entertainment 102 - Artist of the month 106 - Event Calendar 107 - Classifieds 109 - Crossword

on the cover

Dr. Larry Britt & Dr. Carrie Porter

FOCUSplantcity.com Full digital version of the current and past magazines Extended features, interviews, dining profiles and business profiles with extra content Community news updates

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Letter From The Publisher

As I previewed the great stories in this month’s issue, I was struck by the thought of how much we all have a desire to truly “experience life.” Experiencing life for my family at this point revolves around the raising of our two sons to be contributors to society and the business of growing Focus by sharing in community successes - individual, organizational, and entrepreneurial. We’re blessed our town has so many to share. Take Marlene Hall Sapp, for example. She’s a 72-year-old, fullof-life Plant City native who had always longed to skydive. One day recently she decided the time was now, and she drove herself to the Zephyrhills Skydive Center to trust the professionals who would help her realize that dream. What experience is up next for Marlene? It’s deep sea diving. Can you believe it? After reading her story, I’m wondering if we should include her in our next Focus 11 Big Adventure outings. An organization that definitely helps all of us experience life and health is the Plant City Family YMCA. Summer can’t quite be considered over until the Y has hosted its annual luau fundraiser. The monies raised provide scholarships to Y programs for children who might not otherwise be able to participate. Experiencing life is an active process and our YMCA offers numerous opportunities for folks of every age and life stage. If you can’t travel to Hawaii, this event is your next best thing. What I value about Plant City is the number of hard-working, dedicated business owners who take great pride in offering their customers the best service, products, and commitment that money can buy - and also those things it can’t buy - like love for family and community and optimism. Be sure and read Anthony Mendolia’s story about his business, Plant City Automotive, and about the success that has come because he took an entrepreneurial leap of faith to experience business ownership. I think what impressed me most was the obvious respect he holds for his employees and his customers. Experiencing life sometimes means automotive breakdowns. But here, his company has affordable, professional solutions. Focus exists to tell your “experiencing life” stories - the personal, the business, and the community-driven. Thank you for sharing. We couldn’t experience success without you.

Mike Floyd - Publisher mike@floydpublications.com Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com

Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563

Office Manager Dede Floyd dede@floydpublications.com

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Copy Editor Cheryl Johnston cjohnston@floydpublications.com

www.focusplantcity.com Credit Manager Angel Carter acarter@floydpublications.com Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming 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 inform 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. FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. 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.

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Talk of the town

Submit your Talk of the Town to: editorial@floydpublications.com

Yard sale in Memory of Jill McMath Florida Strawberry Festival News The Florida Strawberry Festival announced the 2012 Theme: “Growing Sweet Memories”.

Ashley McMath will host a Yard Sale on September the 24th in memory of her beloved Aunt Jill McMath. Ashley hopes to raise money for Team Jill in the Relay for Life. Jill McMath passed away recently with cancer, the disease she battled for years, but most would have never known it. She was always worried about others and even in her darkest hours her faith and peace held true. Help Ashley honor her beloved Aunt and raise money to find the cure. If you would like to donate items or help in any way please contact Ashley at jesusfreak934@yahoo.com.

Thanksgiving Canned Food Drive The Plant City Junior Woman’s Club is collecting donations for their Thanksgiving Canned Food Drive. You may donate canned food at the following locations around Plant City: Publix on Alexander The Corner Store O’Brien’s Irish Pub Sisters and Company Textures Hair Salon Chili’s The Artistry Salon 607 SweetBay Fred’s Southern Kitchen

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Mystery Dinner Theater Coming Soon September 30 and October 1 Mystery Dinner Theater I Wed Three Wives Florida National Guard Armory 4004 Airport Road For more information please call Hal Brewer at 752-4949

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Talk of The Town

CwkC 1sT annUal fUndraiser golf ToUrnamenT CALLING ALL GOLFERS! Chris Welbon Karate Clubs Booster in partnership with Shiners Hospital will host its 1st Annual Fundraiser Golf Tournament on Saturday, October 8th at The Walden Lake Country Club in Plant City, FL. This will be a 4 man scramble, where you can enjoy 18 holes of golf, cart, lunch, contests & door prizes. All for only $65 per player ($260 per team)! Please come out and have a great time, while supporting Shriners Hospital and the CWKC Booster Club! Register online at www.CWKCBoosterGolfTournament.com

UniTed food bank needs yoUr help The Summer Program for school aged children has left the shelves at the United Food Bank practically empty. Much needed items are: Macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, jelly/jam, juice,soups, beans and crackers of any kind. To donate you may drop by the Food Bank from 8AM to 5PM Monday through Friday, or if you prefer you may arrange for a pick up by calling 757-9809. We are so blessed to have such a kind and caring community. Thank you in advance for helping meet this need.

sepTember 26Th 6:00 To 7:00 kiCkoff for relay for life of planT CiTy Stay Tuned for a Cure! Come celebrate last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success and get pumped for the 2012 Relay for Life of Plant City, Join us as we FIGHT BACK against cancer! We hope to see you there! If you have not registered for the 2012 Relay For Life, remember to bring your $100 fee and join the 60 already registered teams! If you have already registered, come out and help jump start the new season! Come choose your theme, campsite and/or on-site fundraiser! This invitation is extended to all Team Captains and Team Members. We request an RSVP of attendance. Look below for information. Plant Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Baptist church 503 North Palmer Street For more information please email Kindell Gilmore, kindell.gilmore@sdhc.k12.fl.us by Wednesday, September 21 Dinner will be served!

woodrow wilson elemenTary sChool is CelebraTing 85 years. An evening of celebration is being planned from 5:30 to 7:00PM at Wilson Elementary School, 702 English Street, Plant City. Former and present Administrators, teachers, staff and student alumni are encouraged to attend. For more information: Find us on Faceboo khttp://www. facebook.com/pages/Wilson-Elementary-Plant-CityFlorida-85th-Celebration/199112360132024

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

CongraTUlaTions To dana hall oUr foCUs Trip winner! Rhonda Hardee from Travel by Horizon presented Dana Hall of Lakeland with her free 3-day all-inclusive trip to Mexico. She won by registering online To register for Focus Deals, visit www.focusplantcity.com for more details.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

LocaL » Focus and could use: hats, scarves, turbans, bras, wigs, and prostheses. Wendy Brown’s sister, Judy Lockart said, “There are other needs for these people as well. While going through cancer treatments you lose your hair and the center is in desperate need of a hairstylist to come in and teach the woman and men how to wear wigs properly, so they may keep their daily lives as unaffected as possible They need a makeup artist to come in and teach women how to wear make-up with the loss of their eyebrows and changes in their complexion. Many women have no idea how to apply makeup due to this.” One woman’s dedication got the building off the ground. Now they need your continued help to keep it going. Cancer doesn’t stop affecting people just because some are healed or in remission.New people are diagnosed daily with this horrific disease. Look in your closets, attics, and storage areas to find articles the center needs. Talk to your neighbors; help the center so it can help others.

The official ribbon cutting ceremony.

Grand OpeninG SFBH CanCer cancer resource center - a center with a heart Center S

Reach out and touch a life at a time when someone needs help the most.

outh Florida Baptist Hospital is proud to announce the opening of its Cancer Resource Center located at 1708 W. Palmetto Avenue in Plant City. This center is the one place for patients to receive educational materials on a wide variety of cancer topics, select from mastectomy items, and participate in support group meetings. Free internet access is also available for patients who would like to do additional research online.

can do. Instead of people having to drive to Tampa while feeling at their lowest, physically and mentally, they can come here and be back home by lunchtime. And even though I will wear an ostomy bag for the rest of my life, now I know there is a place where I can come and have someone to talk to about it.”

The Cancer Resource Center is more than just a building. It’s a place that offers hope and a sense of belonging to people whose lives have been turned upside down. Even though they offer these at no cost to patients, the supplies are few and the needs are many. The center is always looking for

watch

foCUsTv

written By: Keri eStridge

See our coverage of this event on FOCUSTV - Episode 99

www.focusplantcity.com

The idea for the center was one woman’s dream. Wendy Brown, along with the help of her sisters, the community, and the hospital, has moved the dream through hard work, sweat and shed tears into a reality. Obviously, no one woman can do it all. Without the amazing volunteers who give regularly of their time, this facility could not sustain its purpose in the community. One volunteer in particular, John Straud, a cancer survivor for three years now, summed it up when he said that while going through his treatments, he “felt alone and had no one to talk to.” He continued, “That is what a place like this

Members of the hospital and the community by which the center couldn’t operate daily. foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Local » Focus

The Smith Family gathers for a family picture: Marion, Kathy, Jim Petrina, Debbie, Mac, and Cookie

B.M. “Mac” Smith as 2011 YMCA Strong HonoredLeader B

written By: Sherrie Mueller

.M. “Mac” Smith was honored recently as the 2011 YMCA Strong Leader. Approximately 150 people attended the awards dinner held at the Red Rose Ballroom in Plant City. Mr. Smith, affectionately known by many as “Mac,” was applauded for his dedication to the Plant City community.

Adam Klutts, Senior Group Vice President of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, spoke to the group, describing the attributes of a “Strong Leader” and how Mac Smith exemplified leadership. Charlotte Walden spoke fondly of childhood and high school memories of Mac. Bob Edwards complimented Mac’s abilities as a communicator to help recruit and spearhead projects to improve the Plant City community. Charlie White praised Smith’s involvement with the Boy Scouts and the positive role Mac played in white’s quest for Eagle Scout. Smith served on several boards in the Tampa Bay area including the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority and the Tampa Sports Authority. He is currently a director with the Hillsboro Bank and is an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Plant City. A video showing Mac’s local friends describing humorous stories and long time memories entertained the audience. Rolly Rollyson praised him for his dedication as director of the Florida Strawberry Festival. During his service to the Festival, it grew from a 3-day fair

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

to an 11-day festival known as one of the best in the country. Several speakers praised Smith for his role in making the Veterans Memorial Park a reality. He served as the Foundation President and was the biggest financial contributor to the project. Mac served in the Navy as a pilot. Following his military service he returned to Plant City to join forces with his father at B.M. Smith Motors. Mac graduated from Plant City High School in 1946. In memory of his mother, who was a longtime high school English teacher, he sponsors the Rozale Millinoir Smith Scholarship to the Outstanding English student at PCHS. He and Cookie, his wife of 59 years, have three daughters - Debbie, Kathy and Marion and six grandchildren. Plant City YMCA board member Tina Pike presented the Strong Leader Award to B. M. “Mac” Smith. Throughout the evening, music was provided by Jonathan Davis, a blind and autistic student of Willis Peters Exceptional Center. Table centerpieces were made by children ages 5-12 who participated in the YMCA 2011 Summer Camp. All funds raised from the Strong Leader event will help sponsor camp and swim lessons for disadvantaged children, as well as the youth sports programs. Congratulations to Mac Smith, Plant City’s YMCA 2011 Strong Leader.

Local » Focus

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VISIT OUR SHOWROOM A night of tropical fun hosted by Plant City Y Photo from the 2010 Luau

The Plant City Y Hosts a Luau A Night to Benefit the Y and its Programs T written By: Diana Brink

he Plant City Y will host a Luau for the adult community on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $35 per person. The evening includes all you can eat, raft races, auction, and entertainment. “The proceeds raised from this event will go directly into the Plant City community,” shared Eric Poe, director of the Plant City Y. “This money helps us ensure that everyone – regardless of age, income or background – has the opportunity to be more healthy, confident, connected and secure.” Local restaurants such as Fred’s Plant City Market, Nick’s Pizzeria, Mi Casa, and the Pig-Men of Plant City will donate food for the evening. Food will also be donated by local franchises: Chili’s, Dairy Queen, O’Brien’s, Outback, Panera, Sonic, and Sweet Bay. Astin Farms, Inc. will sponsor the Raft Races, that involves inner tubes and teams. Each team competes with one person rowing across the pool and then switching with a teammate. The first team to successfully get the entire team across the pool is the winner. Wish Farms will sponsor the music and entertainment provided by Wayne Jackson of Custom Karaoke DJ. A tent

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The night will also include live and silent auctions. The auctioned items include a 44-foot sailboat ride, a deep sea fishing day adventure, use of a weekend beach house at either Madeira or Fort Myers Beach, and many other great prizes. “So many business and community members have joined the Y in making our community stronger,” Poe shared. “This evening thanks those who’ve helped us achieve our goals, while also introducing new businesses and community members to the Y ’s focus on nurturing the potential of kids and teens, improving the health and well-being of the Plant City community, and giving back and supporting our neighbors in need. The Y exists to bring the Plant City community together.” Guest are encouraged to wear Hawaiian or tropical attire. Come on and head poolside for a night to help benefit the Y’s programs and families. Plan ahead also for the Y’s upcoming 5K Turkey Drop race on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2011. For information on the Luau or the race, contact the Plant City Y at (813)757-6677.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

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PlantFinancial City, FL 33563 Suite 206 Financial Advisor Plant. City, FLAdvisor 33563 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1071 Plant City, FL 33563 1514 S Alexander Street 104 N Evers St Suite 102 813-752-9400 813-752-1071 813-752-9400 Suite 206 Plant City, FL 33563 Plant City, FL 33563Luke Carvalho, Financial Advisor Stephen W Shouse, Financial Advisor, AAMS 813-752-1071 813-752-9400 2806 James L Redman Pkwy., Suite 201 1514 S Alexander StreetLuke Carvalho Luke Carvalho Plant City, FL 33566 Suite 206 Financial Advisor Advisor Plant City, FL 33563 .Financial Luke Carvalho 813-752-9765 . 2806 James L Redman Pkwy Financial Advisor 813-752-9400 2806 James L Redman Pkwy www.careers.edwardjones.com Member SIPC Suite 201 www.careers.edwardjones.com Member SIPC Suite 201 2806 James L Redman Pkwy www.careers.edwardjones.com Member SIPC Plant City, FL 33566 Suite 201 Tim Shuff, Financial Advisor, Plant CFP City, FL 33566 813-752-9765 Plant City, FL 33566 104 N Evers St 813-752-9765 813-752-9765 Suite 102 Achieve Well-earned Success Success Plant City, FL 33563 Achieve Well-earned Well-earned Success Edward Jones isAchieve an equal opportunity employer. Edward Jones is an equal opportunity employer. Edward Jones is an equal opportunity employer. 813-752-1071 .

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Local » Focus

4-H Clubs - Striving To Help Youth H Writtene By: Dale Bliss

ead, heart, hands and health. The 4-H organization’s pledge says it all: “I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, and my health to better living. For my club, my community, my country and my world.” Add in a commitment of care, time and a love for making the best better, and you have 4-H youth. What more could you ask from young people? In 1914 Congress introduced the Extension Service and established researched-based information from land-grant universities. It is refreshing and hopeful to see a unique program like 4-H teaching boys and girls the values, fundamentals and necessities of life. 4-H encourages a diversity of youth to develop their skills and values to their utmost. They participate in events, competitions and projects that expand and increase life skills. The clubs are open to youth in Hillsborough County as well as all counties in Florida.

Standards in education. The courses have been developed by national teams, watched by a national task force and driven with youth before being released. 4-H also offers an Afterschool Program and provides vast resources for youthoriented organizations to help train staff, administer information for developing sound practices, develop new programs for after-school clubs and to strengthen the existing programs. The youth programs are introduced to youth centers, YMCAs, and Parks and Recreation centers. Some of the Afterschool Curriculum that 4-H provides is Embryology for grades K-6. The children learn about how a chick is born from an egg. Water Wise is a six-week program offered, which teaches the awareness of water conservation. A two-day summer program is called Water Awareness. If that isn’t enough, in ride the Recycle Rangers, a six-week program that teaches youth about the importance of recycling and how it effects the environment.

The 4-H also provides a program for youth 4-H is an educational service provided whose parents are in the Army Reserve by both the University of Florida and and National Guard. The program helps Hillsborough County. It provides excellent the children adapt to military life and projects and activities that meet the periods of deployment. Activities include requirements of the Florida Sunshine State Lock-Ins, Mock Deployment Camps and Family Readiness Meetings.

These are just a few of the many diverse programs 4-H offers to teach youth to fulfill the organization’s motto, “To make

“Make the Best Better”

the best better.” For more information, contact the Hillsborough County Extension Service at 813-774-5519 or view resources on the informative website at http://florida4h.org.

Following are the 4-H clubs in Plant City:

Club Name Antioch Critters

Project Livestock, Plants Animals, Cooking

Club Leader Rhonda Burnette 813-681-0608

Barnyard Blessings

Environmental Sustainability Fishing, Sewing, Archery

Cassie McClelland 813-982-2319

Hillsborough Dairy Club

Dairy, Plants Market Animals

Terri Johnson 813-967-2562

Patchwork

Dogs, Livestock Plants, Poultry Public Speaking Experience working w/special needs youth

Stephanie Farmer 813-763-2317

Cork Crackers Dairy Cows, Hogs, Plants Sundi Griffin 813-478-2114 Hearts for Horses Horses Meghan Boyette 813-928-1316

Southern Charm Pioneers

Rebecca Beach 813-661-1824

Southside

Livestock Dairy/Beef Cattle

Sabrina Huggins 813-752-2379

Young Sprouts

Beef, Poultry, Swine, Baking, Crafts

Sheri Ray 813-986-4964

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Local » Focus

The 2011 Women’s Professional Tarpon Tournament Series champions, sponsored by Patterson Freight Systems, won with a record-breaking 208-pounder. Pictured L-R on are Nicole Tyson, Brandy Stalvey Garren, Captain Justin Cauffman, and Angela Cauffman. Bobby Tyson, (the team’s mate) not pictured, snapped the photo. Photo by Nicole Tyson

Local Couples in Annual Tarpon Win BigTournament T

written By: Cheryl Johnston

is probably not a strong enough description Championship prize was a boat valued at of the fishing action experienced by teams $55,000 - on Father’s Day, no less. from near and far this time of year in the pass. Garren also took home another prize when he married Brandy Stalvey in Englewood This year’s 2011 WPTTS winner, from on the Thursday of the tournament more than 150 women competing, was the weekend. Needless to say, there’s been Team Patterson Freight Systems group plenty to celebrate among these fishing of five: the 21-year-old Captain Justin friends. Cauffman, his mother Angela Cauffman, Brandy Stalvey Garren, Nicole Tyson, and For those unfamiliar with tarpon the team’s mate, Bobby Tyson. The women tournaments, teams receive points for fished as the men maneuvered the boat and “leader touches.” Additionally, once a fish lip-gaffed the fish for the trip to the scales. has been gaffed (hooked in the mouth An hour before the tournament’s end, the for weighing purposes), the fish must be ladies hooked a big one. Angela did most weighed and released alive. The mate also of the fighting, even into overtime, without swabs the fish near the mouth and tags the benefit of a fighting chair or belt to it before release. This helps the Florida hold the pole securely. The bruises lasted Fish and Wildlife Commission to track for days, along with the group’s smiles for and count the fish for research purposes. their winning catch, a 208-pound silver Tarpon fishing is definitely a sport for king. This also happened to be the biggest those who love the water and love the fish weighed in WPTTS history. Their challenge and thrill of catching “the big record-setting fish netted the team $8,500 one.” Visit www.pttstv.com for details. in prize money, not bad for a day’s work. It goes without saying that the Tysons, the Garrens, and their Northport friends The PTTS Team Patterson Freight Systems group took the 2011 Tarpon are probably “hooked for life” on PTTS and WPTTS competition. Those of us Cup Championship with a combined here on the shores of Plant City can only weight of 250 pounds for two fish. Coincidentally, that amount was their dream and live vicariously by watching initial goal. Patterson Freight Systems is a on SunSports and cheering the team on local company in which Nicole Tyson’s dad from our living rooms. But hey, isn’t that is a partner and Bobby works as a truck what community folks do for each other? broker. The team was comprised of four: Celebrate - oh yeah! Captain Justin Cauffman, Bobby Tyson, Brandy Stalvey and Steve Garren. Their

he husband and wife teams of Bobby and Nicole Tyson and newlyweds Steve and Brandy Stalvey Garren love to fish. The Plant City High School graduates grew up fishing with their families. Last year, they got involved in the annual Professional Tarpon Tournament Series. This year, they brought home the top prizes in the men’s and women’s events. The PTTS and the Women’s PTTS are a series of six men’s and five women’s tarpon fishing events, respectively, that happen each Saturday and Sunday morning, usually beginning in mid-May. The tournament, presented by Yamaha, takes place in Boca Grande Pass while many watch the action from the southern end of Gasparilla Island. The pass, known as the “tarpon capitol of the world,” is a half-mile wide bottleneck where huge quantities of swimming crabs and baitfish attract migratory tarpon, who are also followed by bull and hammerhead sharks. Excitement

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Professional Tarpon Tournament Series champions pictured L-R with their 2011 Tarpon Cup Trophy are newlyweds Steve Garren and Brandy Stalvey Garren, Bobby Tyson, and Captain Justin Cauffman. Photo by Nicole Tyson

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Local » Focus

Refrigerated storage the benefits are useful on any farm Photo by Keri Estridge

Florida Strawberry Growers Hosts 29th Annual Agritech Trade Show Association T written by: Keri Estridge

he 29th Annual Agritech Educational Seminar and Trade Show hosted by the Florida Strawberry Growers Association was held August 16-17, 2011. As usual, the event was a tremendous success. More than 90% of the industry’s strawberry and vegetable vendors come

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

together under one roof for this occasion to share their newest product lines and latest information with local growers. Fifty booths lined the room, back to back. Vendors eagerly awaited their 15-minute opportunity to display the special traits of their products and allow growers a one-onone chance to discuss questions they face daily in their trade.

One group of growers interviewed all had different reasons for coming, but agreed they come back each year to see the latest product updates and gain new information. One remarked, “The latest and the greatest is not always the best. You have to use some common sense.” Another stated that he was there “to see a new variety of strawberry plant and to learn about a new

disease that had been found down south.” From young to old, they were farmers - the same, but different. Each had a specific need in a different phase of their business for the same purpose - to improve. Each had a sincere desire to run a better farm, produce and maintain a high quality product and distribute it in the safest and

Local » Focus

The benefits of refrigerated storage are useful on any farm Photo by Keri Estridge

most cost effective way. From permitting to fertilization, from container variations to distribution, each farmer had time to meet with vendors, state officials, researchers and other growers living and working in the same community in order to gain a better understanding of what they do and how to do it better. The 20-30 minute workshop sessions, hosted by researchers at the University of Florida and the Southwest Florida Management District covered a wide variety of topics involving irrigation, labor, soil and plants. These touched on subjects such as: Development in nutrient management Requirements for drip fumigation and backflow prevention Botrytis resistance to fungicides Irrigation and frost protection New disease modeling and breeding developments Crew leader training programs Pest control training programs Not only did growers get an enormous amount of education, but they were fed,

too. The breakfast and lunch meals, along with lite banter, were a fun time for all. The second day’s breakfast, sponsored by the FSGA, included the special treat of custom-prepared omelets. Each break was sponsored by a different vendor, as were the door prizes offered to visitors. Even folks who aren’t in the farming industry can benefit from attendance at this event. To learn of the degree of effort involved in producing our food is an enlightening experience. One grower summed it up best when he said, “Being a farmer isn’t like punching a time clock, and you don’t change careers.” Each year the Florida Strawberry Growers Association recognizes those grower members with the highest production averages in the state as determined by production assessments. The highest production averages for small, medium, and large growers received a certificate at the 29th Annual Agritech Educational Seminar and Trade Show.

The recipients were: Under 40 Acres Big S Farm Mike Lott Farm Wetherington Farm 41 – 79 Acres Sewell Farms, LLC Spivey Farms Over 80 Acres G & D Farm Parkesdale Farms MPB Farm Sam Astin Farms Thank you, FSGA, for another great year and all you do for our appreciative community.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Harvest Open House

Local » Focus

BENT TWIG 1514 South Alexander Street, Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 417-6166 Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-6pm

Saturday, September 24th 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Refreshments & Door Prizes Additional Crafters Participating Sneek Peek At Christmas 2011

The guys can’t wait to eat the wonderfully prepared food. . Paul Grasso, Capitan Nathaniel Hargrove, Chris Rodriguez, Lance Borges, Jimmy Riley, Malissa Crawford - Coldwell Banker, Maddie Alford - Coldwell Banker, Joanne Lusk - Coldwell Banker

Always Remember Never Forget Coldwell Banker Realty Shows Appreciation to Our Firefighters, Paramedics and EMTs of Plant City written By: Dale Bliss

“U

nited We Stand” and “Always Remember” - we certainly will. To Plant City’s own special firefighters, paramedics and EMTs that risk life and limb for the citizens of their town, Coldwell Banker realtors wanted to give back.

WALDEN LAKE CAR WASH AND SERVICE CENTER 1414 S. Alexander St. 813-752-7226 www.waldenlakecarwash.com

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

The employees wanted to show their appreciation to the men and women who so diligently watch over and take care of those who live here. After discussing what they might do, they decided to prepare meals for the weekend for them. Ten agents in all helped create and cook delicious food for our local heroes. As Joanne Lusk, Maddie Alford and Malissa Crawford arrived in two vehicles full of food for each station, you could not only see, but also feel, the appreciation of the men. First they went to Fire Station Number 2 and then it was on to Fire Station Number 1. “We want to let our local firefighters know we support them, that we honor them and are grateful for all they do every day,” said Lusk.

Lusk continued, “It’s a small token of our appreciation and support for these people who stand ready to help us at any time. The tragedy of 9/11 could’ve happened anywhere and we can never forget. Our effort was to honor these men.” As Lusk was telling the men at both stations how much they were appreciated and how much everyone at Coldwell Banker truly took notice of what they do for our town, the look of humility was visible in their eyes. As Chris DeFrancisco of Fire Station Number 2 said, “You have to really want to do this job. You never know what you are going to roll up on, but you just have to be ready.” For this weekend, employees at both stations showed their support in memory for all those lost September 11, 2001 by humbly but proudly wearing shirts made to memorialize this sad, historic day. And for the rest of our lives, we as Americans, as the text on those shirts reads, will “Always Remember and most assuredly “Never Forget.”

Local » Focus

Marlene Sapp Checks Skydiving off Her Bucket List written By: Cheryl Johnston

arlene Hall Sapp admits she has always been a daredevil. Recently she took a big jump - out of a perfectly good airplane. The 72-year-old Plant City native went skydiving with a group at Skydive City in Zephyrhills and she has the video to prove it. Marlene had a blast, literally, as wind blew her wavy hair straight up from her head. She felt safe on the tandem dive with experienced jumper/trainer and helicopter pilot Nigel Milligan (www. nigelskydive.com). He complimented her spunk, saying, “I remember Marlene as an inspiring example of someone living a full life, ever eager to ‘taste’ new experiences - a lovely lady who enjoyed the noisy 60 second thrill of freefall at 120mph and then the almost silent serenity of the canopy (parachute) ride back to terra firma. Marlene was an absolute trouper.” Sapp’s three grown children knew she’d always wanted to skydive. They requested, “Don’t go without us.” But one day, Marlene decided, “Today is it” and went alone to Zephyrhills airport. She had always been a little fearful because she worried, “What if I pass out and can’t pull the ripcord?” Nigel made the fear disappear.

Marlene’s zest for life is no surprise to her lifelong friend, Belva Padgett DeVane, who said: “She’s crazy for doing it. I’m a chicken. She’s very brave.” Marlene responded, “I’d do it again in a heartbeat and would recommend it to anyone.” She describes herself as always having been “a good ole’ country girl” - one who rode and roped horses, still loves to fish, and is not afraid to try new things. Sapp, with her young girl’s heart, had another reason for jumping that day. She giggled and confessed, “The man who took me up had the prettiest blue eyes … I just can’t resist blue eyes.” She added, “When I married my soul mate Arvel Sapp in 1999, I said yes to his beautiful blue eyes.” Remembering a little teenage fun, Marlene admitted that when her extended family met in downtown Plant City on Saturdays, she and Belva would “skip the movie and flirt with the boys.” Today her life revolves around family, faith and periodic trips into town. When asked what adventure she’d tackle next, Marlene grinned and said, “I want to go deep sea diving.” Anyone game to join her?

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ALL AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CENTER 303 North Alexander Street, Call 813-719-7705 for appts/consultations foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Local » Focus surfers from Walden Lake Elementary had Beach Boys “Fun, fun, fun, ridin’ the learning wave.” Buckhorn Elementary commemorated their “home where the Buckhorn Bears roam” and Bailey Elementary cheered the school “where everybody knows your name.” The popular and poetic Bryan Elementary’s superhero teachers engaged everyone in a “be-nice” slow-clapping rap with a sidesplitting finale. Simmons Career Center Stallions rhymed a repertoire: “Our students can cook a meal, build a house or march a drill, heal a wound or grow a flower, come defeated, leave empowered.” J.S. Robinson Elementary took home the coveted traveling trophy for the third time with their “One Goal, One Mission, One Team” army’s rewritten marching chant from the movie Stripes. Picture courtesy of PC CHamber of Commerce

Chamber of Commerce Hosts 26th Annual New Teacher Coffee Event T

Durant reading teacher Nancy Reagor’s handwritten note of thanks left on the table spoke volumes: “Everything the Plant City community does is always amazing - but the sense of family truly stood out today. You have made us feel like a valued part of this great city. We’ll do our best to make you proud.”

Pastor Gary Brady of Trinity United Methodist Church prayed for God’s strength, courage, love, wisdom, mercy, Rewritten song lyrics dominated this year establishing tradition, setting the bar, and peace, hope, joy, and grace to educators, after SCHS’s 2010 rewrite of Journey’s “demonstrating such strong support of its incorporating a former President John F. “Can’t Stop Believin’. Turkey Creek schools.” She praised teachers for “caring Kennedy quote: ‘Let us think of education Middle School’s version of “Take Me enough to make sure students’ behaviors as the means of developing our greatest Out to the Ball Game” called for “aspirin, are acceptable,” through their “noblest abilities, because in each of us there is a strawberry treats, and exemplary ratings” as private hope and dream which, fulfilled, profession.” She motivated with pressurerelieving advice: “Do what you would want the bat-carrying, baseball t-shirted teachers can be translated into benefit for everyone “work, work, work to improve at this done to your own children in a classroom - and greater strength of the nation.’ “ school yard game.” --- you can’t do any better than that.” His closing request speaks to all of us: New staffers highlight their school mottos Marshall Middle School’s group invited “May we see, O God, that we can make the “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and annual themes in a friendly rivalry the world a better place, because we made with spirited cheers, songs, or synchronized audience to clap their hands. A capella the difference in the life of a child.” movements. Strawberry Crest relinquished the traveling trophy to third time winner J.S. Robinson Elementary and its “One Goal, One Mission, One Team,” whose camo-dressed, cowboy-hatted army chanted their rewritten “I don’t know, but I’ve been told …”, from the movie Stripes.

written By: Cheryl Johnston

he 26th Annual Area VI New Teachers Coffee on August 18 welcomed principals of 28 eastern Hillsborough County Schools and their 200 teachers new in 2011 for a healthy morning meal and an upsized armload of freebies from more than 80 businesses. Key sponsors included: Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Americare Ambulance Service, Bright House Network, Florida Strawberry Festival, Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union, and Tampa Electric Company. From table chats to team chants, faculty members tasted Area 6 hospitality and encouragement. New Tomlin history teacher, Jason Tustin, formerly at Greco Middle School, was impressed, saying, “Plant City obviously takes their new teacher thing seriously.”

Valrico Elementary’s team, led by new Principal Anthony Montoto, cheered “extraordinary learning” while “Exploring Oceans of Knowledge” for the “Most Spirit” award.

Former Area VI Director and career teacher Barbara Franques emceed, introducing HCPS Superintendent Mary Ellen Ilia, Area VI Director Jerry “Most Creative” went to Durant High Jackson, local dignitaries, and of course, the School’s gold football jersey uniformed newbies. teachers, Cougar-dressed mascot and Principal Pam Bowden for their locally Ilia, who visits Plant City’s coffee first famous “Doo-rant” rap written by a former each year, complimented the Chamber student. and “very active community” for

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

The “Most Creative” award went to Durant High School’s gold football jersey uniformed teachers, Cougar-dressed mascot and Principal Pam Bowden for their locally famous “Doo-rant” rap written by a former student. Picture courtesy of PC CHamber of Commerce

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Local » Focus The friendly and educational fun will include three speakers sharing helpful gardening information to the public in the center of the park. The Hillsborough County Extension Service representative will instruct on “Rain Barrels” and master gardener Polly Ryan will offer tips on pruning as part of caring for your gardens and landscape.

2406 James L. Redman Parkway Jim Redman Parkway & Alexander Street, next to Beef O’ Brady’s in Walden Woods Mon.-Sat. 11AM-10PM | Sun. 11AM-8PM

Activities for the children and hamburgers and hotdogs sold by the Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club will make this a convenient day for parents.

happyhour

Monday-Friday Noon-5PM

Event chairwoman Susanne Coldwell mentioned also, “Retailers are considering sidewalk sales, too, so the bargains will extend throughout the downtown.” Additionally, the Plant City Water Department will provide free kits to help with water conservation to the first families who inquire that day.

Plant City Garden Club hosts its 3rd Annual Garden Fest on September 24 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Train Depot and McCall Park. Picture by Cheryl Johnston

3rd Annual

Garden Fest at McCall Park Family Fun September 24, 2011 M

written By: Cheryl Johnston

ake plans now to bring friends and family to the 3rd Annual GardenFest in historic downtown Plant City at the Train Depot and McCall Park on September 24, 2011.

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september 2011 focusplantcity.com

The Garden Club, a member of the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, began here as an offshoot of the Plant City Women’s Club (Garden Committee) in 1963. Membership is open to men and women. Throughout the year the group assists with butterfly gardening in school programs, youth conservation camp, and provides seeds for food worldwide. Annually they also present the Horticulture Show at the Strawberry Festival and hold a flower design competition. This past year club members donated countless hours and funds to landscape the Veterans Memorial Park.

For membership or event details, visit be available for purchase as well. Returning www.plantcitygardenclub.com or phone again this year are D and D Growers, club president Eileen Reed at 813-323Tropical Gardens, Sunshine Nursery, The 0908. Garden and many others.

Looking for ideas on what to plant this fall? Need to purchase plants for your flowerbeds? Desire to spruce up the patio area? Jump in the truck and come on down. The Plant City Garden Club will host more than 30 vendors and non-profit organizations from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at this free to the public event. They will showcase a variety of plants, garden décor, outdoor living accessories, natural foods, and natural products such as clothing and baskets. Small ornamentals as well as big trees, including palms and fruit trees, will

D&D Growers will return this year with a wonderful selection of herbs. Picture by Cheryl Johnston

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 wellness 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 Doctor of Chiropractic advice given at the top of the article to help give you a wellness piece of mind evaluate your spine and immune system correlation. Special Note: OCTOBER is CHIROPRACTIC MONTH – Great time to evaluate the health benefits of chiropractic care. Call to schedule 813-752-2524 Blessings, Dr. Dukes and Staff

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

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

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Local » Focus

Don Lockard chooses to share his faith on his day off from work in a non-obtrusive way and enjoys all the positive response. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

The Man of Faith D

and His Faithful Sign

Thankfully for us, he found another way to share, and in the process, now impacts more people than ever. Lockard explained, Written By: Cheryl Johnston “Many people who don’t go to church see my sign and I just pray that it will gently Lockard grew up in Frostproof and moved The good news is that most of the honks, on Lockard knows about remind them that Jesus loves all of us, to Plant City in 1968 to be near his father smiles, and hand signals he receives in hopelessness. He used to experience Clarence. His mother died when Don return from drivers passing by are positive including them.” He wants them to know it before he found the answer to his that “There is no circumstance so severe and encouraging. Occasionally, there will was 16 and he joined the Navy at 17. At addiction to alcohol. that the Creator can’t repair.” As Lockard a low point in his life and because of his be a negative reaction, but those don’t discourage him. He chooses to focus on his is quick to advise anyone with addictions addiction, he reached out to God. And There’s no need in elaborating on the types God reached down to show Don a new that God can cure, he says, “Been there, “local” mission, which is: “Remind people of problems that caused for him and his way of life. that Jesus cares and that He offers answers done that. He will set you free, just like he family. Just use your imagination and know did for me.” to those who ask.” that life was not good then. But when he He is a quiet man, not one prone to small was 33, he found hope. He also does this outreach because he’s talk and certainly not one to be in anyone’s Lockard has been married to Mary for concerned that one day we will not have face about this faith that changed his life. 41 years now and is an ordained minister These days Lockard tries to share his hope Some might even describe Lockard as shy. in the Church of God (Cleveland, TN) the religious freedoms we can so openly and his faith in an unusual way on his day share in our country now. He’s a man of organization. Presently he serves in off from work. You might have given him a He’s not. If you engage him by asking ministry at the Plant City Church of God, action, literally. “thumbs up” or a horn honk as you passed but hopes again one day to pastor another questions, he’s certainly willing to discuss by the man in the red ball cap who holds church. He spent 13 years with the railroad If you would like to communicate with this his thoughts and listen to yours. He’s a sign on the sidewalk near Checkers on also bold enough to stand on a major and used to witness and sing at work until “Man of Faith” (embroidered on his red State Road 39 South. cap), visit him on Facebook and begin a thoroughfare of this town in the hot a supervisor told him to stop. He did so dialogue. He knows without a doubt that because it’s Biblical to honor those in Florida sunshine and smile at passersby His sign reads, “Jesus Christ is the a relationship with Jesus radically changed who might be friends, believers, and some authority over us. Answer.” his life. He’d love to hear your story, too. who haven’t discovered their own faith path yet.

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Local » Focus

Ben Rawnsley enjoyed working with the young Tom Hanks in “Nothing in Common.” Photo by Ben Rawnsley

Ben Rawnsley a Career in Film B Written By: Cheryl Johnston

en Rawnsley has enjoyed a life doing work he loves - acting. He’s earned his livelihood honing all aspects of the craft in front of and behind the camera, in radio, and on the stage. And,

“It’s true,” Rawnsley says, “Once an actor, always an actor.” His dramatic interest developed in high school, but didn’t advance until later. Marriage and children were priorities,

of course. Initially, department store commercials in Ohio helped pay the bills. After a friend’s Chicago agent landed him in three McDonald’s commercials, he was confident this would become a career.

for any commercial need, company promotions, or special events such as weddings. Within a year he should complete a video highlighting the strawberry industry.

In Los Angeles he worked in industrial/ informational videos and performed in stage plays, daytime TV dramas (General Hospital, The Young and the Restless) and nighttime hits such as Dallas, Knots Landing, Golden Girls and Mama’s Family. Movies include Nothing in Common, An Innocent Man, and Continental Divide, among others. To see more, search his name at Internet Movie Database, IMDb.com.

For teens interested in the performing arts, Rawnsley offered some time-tested advice: Get in any theater program and do any job that’s asked. Paint and build sets, set lights, work the sound, procure costumes, audition for roles, and definitely pay attention to those who got the role. Learn from them. Be available.”

Photos of stars lining his Walden Lake home office wall depict his work as a 35-year Screen Actors Guild member. Working with notables such as Tom Hanks, Jackie Gleason, Tom Selleck, Hal Holbrook, Lana Turner, Jack Elam, Rue McClanahan, Betty White among others have enriched his life. Today, Rawnsley also spends time behind the camera as the active owner of Simply Video Productions. He produces media

Rejections must not squelch the dream. Rawnsley cautioned, “If you’re going to be an actor, you will be rejected. Count on it. Deal with it.” He explained that directors know in the first ten seconds whether you’re a fit for the part. He added, “You will seldom know why you were rejected. It’s not about you. It’s about the role they need to fill.” Remember, as in most careers, persistence and passion are key. For tips on the craft or to discuss your Simply Video Production needs, feel free to contact Rawnsley at 813-365-8252. He’s always ready to practice his art.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

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T-shirt Sponsors Brighthouse Networks Magnify Credit Union T. Mims Corp. Two Men and a Truck Sponsors as of 8/30/11

800 East Palmetto Street, Lakeland • PolkMuseumofArt.org/RWB september 2011 focusplantcity.com

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Local » did you know

Peninsular Telephone Company: Changing the Way Plant City Communicates A submitted By: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

t the turn of the 20th century, a relatively new piece of technology was provided to Plant City residents - the telephone. Telephone service was initially limited, with 34 subscribers having access in 1902. In the early days, there were two rival telephone companies in town, Peninsular Telephone Company and Bell Telephone Company. Both companies ventured to install telephone lines from Polk County to Tampa faster than the other. When Peninsular Co. workmen “staked out their pole line through Plant City, the Bell crew staked out a line on the same side of the same street”. Following this action, a Peninsular construction team labored throughout the night to finish placing the telephone poles and lines in the city, thereby surprising the Bell crew the next day. The Peninsular Telephone Company (PTC) office was originally in a wooden building, next to the wood frame Strickland Store on South Collins Street, but later relocated to the brick Simmons Building on the corner of Collins and Haines Street.

After the devastating July 4th fire of 1907, the city of Plant City decided to set up a fire department, of which “Rudy Mehaffey, daytime lineman and night operator for the Peninsular Telephone Company, was named captain”. The town’s fire alarm system was set up with the cooperation of PTC and the electric light works. No later than 1911, the number of subscribers was too many for the switchboard operator to remember. Therefore the company started supplying a directory containing the 250 names and associated numbers. Callers were asked to have the number they wanted to reach known before they spoke with the operator. The well known A.P. Cooke, editor-

publisher of The Courier, actually worked for PTC in a public relations role. In the latter part of the 1950s, General Telephone & Electronics Corporation, also known as GTE, acquired “Peninsular Telephone Company in Florida, with 300,000 lines”. Another former employee of Peninsular Telephone Company, Ann Owens, describes her time there as “enjoyable and interesting”. She started as a telephone operator who placed local and long-distance calls. She later moved up to repair service and eventually rose to the level of Executive Secretary before she retired. Owens worked for the company for 38 years. The phone company called her after she graduated, asking to see if she was interested in working there. She graduated in June, married in July, and began working in August of 1952. GTE bought PTC about two years later. One fond memory she recalls when working at Peninsular is when Kirby’s Bakery and Johnson’s Restaurant made deliveries to the employees of the phone company. The service was based on the honor system. Employees who wanted a pastry from Kirby’s or a sandwich from Johnson’s picked their selection and placed their money on a table. The next day when more food deliveries were made, the payment from the previous day was collected. There was never a problem; employees never resorted to being freeloaders. Owens talked about what occurred while she was on shift, mentioning that people would call for information and ask for numbers of stores. The operator would put you on hold until she found the number for you. Everything was hand-written in her time without modernday office automation. Back then there were

party lines (shared lines) that customers could specifically sign up to receive. Private lines were more expensive than party lines, which were sometimes shared by eight households. Complaint letters were sent out to those users who disrespected other parties on a party line. Employees were given private lines. Company cars were provided to those working in administration. However, if you had to go to a meeting in Tampa, you were given a company car to take for the day. During her long career with the company, Owens had the opportunity to speak with many famous people.

As far as technology is concerned, when Owens began working at PTC, there was no such thing as a rotary dial for telephones. She first worked with non-dial telephones, where you had to wait for an operator to ask for your number. After awhile, dial phones were released. During the 1970s, the new piece of technology was a touch-tone telephone. Owens recalls holidays being her busiest time at work, with Mother’s Day being the busiest day of the year, followed by Christmas Day. On holidays and also during inclement weather, such as when Hurricane Donna struck Plant City in 1960, she had to stay at work all day. There were many times when she spent the night at the phone company because the customers had to be served. To calculate bills for telephone users, the operators would use tickets and stamp the times when the call began and ended. Customers would get a bill every month saying how long they talked on the phone line. Peninsular Telephone Company and her labor union, IBEW, treated Owens very well during her almost four decades on the job. She earned seniority, receiving six weeks of vacation after

working for so many years, differential pay for working at night, a nice retirement party, and retirement presents, including a monetary gift, plaque, diamond keychain, and mantle clock. When Owens filled the Executive Secretary position, she was in charge of arranging retirement parties. If someone in your family died, a representative from the phone company brought paychecks and food to your home while you were on leave. Also, the union always brought a Bible to the home of employees when there was a death in their family. She loved her job because of the customer contact she engaged in during her years working for the company.

One aspect of the telephone company that has dramatically changed over the past thirty to forty years has been customer service, specifically the separation of customers from the customer service providers. For example, when you called for help or information you used to speak with a local person, whereas now, you are usually connected to someone in another state or country, or often times an automated system. In summary, Peninsular Telephone Company, later GTE, and now Verizon, has catered to Plant City’s demand for point-to-point voice communication. It contributed to modernizing the city, and based on a former employee’s testimony, the work environment was satisfying for the labor force. ______________________________________ _____________________________________ Sources: Ann Owens, (2011, August 24). Personal interview; Plant City Photo Archives & History Center; Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City: Its Origin and History, pgs. 126, 131, 159-160, 249, Hunter Publishing Company, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 1984; Verizon Communications. (2011). Retrieved August 23, 2011 from http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/ history2/68/Verizon-Communications.html

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

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Local » Focus

2 WORDS HEALTHY DIET

{Actually Overweight Pets Are No Laughing Matter!}

“Gigi Burns singing Total Eclipse of the Heart” Photo by Kirk MacGirvin

The Plant City Arts Council Presents written By: Dale Bliss

soft summer’s Sunday evening, a kind and gentle breeze, and bright sparking lights that danced across the sky as if to say “It’s alright. Sit back and enjoy your time here” provided the ambiance for Music of the Night presented by The Plant City Arts Council. For the past ten years Cheryl Worsham, member and chairperson, has been giving an outstanding performance of producing and directing for the Plant City Arts Council as she, once again did this year, with Music of the Night. The Ballroom at the Red Rose Inn and Suites on August 28, 2011 was the setting for this whimsical and enchanted evening. You could not help but feel you were standing in a park on a freshly cut lawn just outside a gazebo listening to musicians as they performed their vocal selections to choreographed dancing under the stars. Tony Garcia, an accomplished vocalist from Tampa, offered an inspiring performance of “You Raise Me Up“. Vivian Padron and Gigi Burns sang “Tell It To My Heart“.

Ian Burns, a student at Hillsborough Community College, performed a magnificent rendition of “You Should Be Dancing” along with Ryan Caudill, Luis Colon and Ben Mercado. Chicago native Ramond Chiaramonte, who has appeared in “Jesus Christ Superstar“, sang “The Prayer” along with Rossana Spallino, a native of Italy and a recording artist before moving to Tampa. Jose Rodriguez, considered to be one of Tampa Bay’s finest percussionists and having performed percussion in “The Lion King”, filled the evening with his artistic talent. He is currently performing at the Pat Conservatory with James Crumbly’s jazz ensemble. The Plant City Arts Council desires to enhance the community through awareness of the Arts. All proceeds earned will benefit The Plant City Arts Council Scholarship Fund set aside for students pursuing careers in the arts. If you have an interest regarding the Plant City Arts Council, please call Marsha Passmore at 813-245-2244 or Cheryl Worsham at 813-973-1770 for more information.

ASK US FOR RECOMMENDATIONS ON HOW YOUR PET CAN BE THE PICTURE OF HEALTH!

Animal Wellness Center OF PLANT CITY Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 5:30pm

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Local » chamber of commerce

GREATER PLANT CITY

he Chamber’s Contact Breakfast which was held August 10th. at the Red Rose Inn & Suites paid tribute to Agriculture. This is always a very well attended breakfast with many Future Farmers of America attending. The breakfast was sponsored by long time Chamber member, Farm Credit of Central Florida. Awards were presented in five categories: Fancy Farms strawberry growers Carl and Dee Dee Grooms were named Agriculturists of the Year. A truly great and well deserved honor. Together they support the farming community. Carl has emerged as a spokesman for the $350 million dollar strawberry industry. You will see him on all the local news channel when the weather threatens the strawberry crop. Carl thanked his family and the support of the community when he and his lovely wife Dee Dee were presented the award. Sam Patterson Truck Brokers was named Agribusiness of the Year. This outstanding fruit and vegetable trucking company was founded in 1985 and now has over 15 regional offices and 100 employees. Among the organizations they support are the United Food Bank of Plant City and the Redlands Christian Migrant Association. Steve Howard, the company’s President accepted the award. Susan Mayo was named Ag Educator of the Year. She is a veteran educator and oversees the agriculture education program at Strawberry Crest High School. Her students have won many FFA contests. The Young Agriculturist of the Year was awarded to Joey Gude, owner of Brandon Farms. Joey was a 1988 Plant City High graduate. He started farming with just over 7 acres and now has more than 300 acres at his Brandon Farms. Paul Davis, General Manager of the Florida Strawberry Festival received the Supporter of Youth in Agriculture Award. A former FFA member himself, he has encouraged youth participation in the Strawberry Festival. ********** Don’t forget your Chamber’s Strawberry Classic Car Show which takes place in McCall Park on Saturday. September 17th. This is a great family fun event. From 4-9 p.m. It is open to 1984 and older cars and trucks. There is oldies music, a 50/50 drawing, vendors and crafters. A great way to spend Saturday evening in Plant City. School got started on August 23rd and on Thursday, August 18th your Chamber played

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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE submitted By: bruce rodwell

host to over 200 NEW teachers in the District 6 area. The event took place at the Expo Building on the Strawberry Festival Grounds . Major sponsors of the event were: Americare Ambulance Service, Bright House Networks, Florida Strawberry Festival, Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union and TECO Electric Company. Each new teacher was treated to breakfast (courtesy of 911 Catering from South Florida Baptist Hospital) and each received a gift bag filled with all sorts of goodies. Each also had a chance to win some great door prizes. Marion Smith, Chamber President asked me to convey her thanks to all the businesses that helped make this occasion such a tremendous success. *********** South Florida Baptist Hospital recently opened a Cancer Resource Center at 1708 W. Palmetto Avenue, which is directly behind the hospital. The Center provides a wide variety of information and educational materials with brochures available for various cancer topics and is offered free to cancer patients. Visitors will find hats, scarves, turbans, bras, wigs and prostheses available. Kudos to Wendy Brown for her untiring efforts in creating this facility for cancer patients to receive support and receive the most up-todate information on cancer. Through her efforts the Resource Center was staffed with volunteers and furniture. She has received many donations from the community, however, the need is great and donations of like new hats, scarves, wigs, bras, plus beverages and basic supplies are always welcome. Monetary donations are also needed for supplies and information resources and can be sent to South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation, c/o Cancer Resource Center, 301 N. Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 33566. Steve Nierman, COO at SFBH had this to say about Wendy and her efforts in establishing this new Cancer Resource Center. “Wendy is the reason our community now has a Cancer Resource Center. She had a vision and put her heart and soul into making this happen for our community”.

Also of note, South Florida Baptist Hospital is now performing Bariatric Surgery and just recently started offering coronary stent and balloon angioplasty for heart patients. In commenting on these two new procedures at the hospital, Mr. Nierman said, “Cardiovascular disease and obesity are leading health issues in our community and our hospital is proud to offer the latest treatments available”. **********

South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s 15th. Annual Diamonds & Denim gala happens Thursday evening, September 22nd at the Expo Building on the Festival grounds. It starts at 7 p.m. Suggested attire for the evening is dressy denim. There is plenty of food and a live band for dancing. Proceeds from this great event will benefit the various needs of the hospital. For ticket information, call Judy Martin at 813757-1277. ********** The Plant City Garden Club is kicking off the fall gardening season with its 3rd. Annual Garden Fest. This event takes place from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 24th at the Depot, 102 N. Palmer St., Plant City. The event is open to the public and there is no admission charge. Call 813-752-9363 for additional information. ********** The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce 9th. Annual Bike Fest will take place Saturday, October 1st. This is a great family fun time. Come on out to McCall Park in downtown Plant City and join in the fun. Lots and lots or great motorcycles on display. Starts at 5 p.m. and goes on till 9 p.m. ********** It’s time again for the Bruton Memorial Library “Friends Mystery Dinner Theatre”. On September 30 and again on October 1 at the Florida National Guard Armory a play entitled “I Lead Three Wives” will be presented at 6:30 p.m. each night. Tickets are $40. and include dinner, dessert and of course, the presentation. For further information and to order tickets, call Dr. Hal Brewer at 813-752-4949. ********** On Saturday, October 1st, the East Hillsborough Historical Society, in partnership with First Florida Frontiers, is sponsoring “The Sunshine State Music Festival” at the 1914 high school. There will be all kinds of music from country, folk, vintage jazz, bluegrass, etc. This all starts at 12 noon and will last until way after dark. Admission is $15 for ages 13 and up and $5 ages 6-13. Kids under 6 are free. There will be food and vendors. For additional information call The Historical Society at 813-757-9226. ********** Jules Burt’s Hi-Heel Hike will take place October 8 in downtown Plant City starting at 7 p.m. with registration beginning at 6 p.m. This event benefits the Autism Foundation. Additional information is available by calling Jules at 813-764-8695.

The Florida Opry is back! On Saturday, October 8th at the 1914 high school, a live musical concert will be presented. Reserved seats at $12 and general admission is $10. This is sponsored by the East Hillsborough Historical Society. The show starts at 6 p.m. Call 813-757-9226 for information. ********** The Power Lunch Series continues at Hillsborough Community College on Monday, October 10th. The topic will be “Small Business Ownership and Entrepreneurship-an overview”. A donation of $8. is requested at the door to cover the cost of lunch. The program starts at noon and closes out at 1:30 p.m. If you would like additional information, call Juan Lynum at 813-443-0272. ********** The GFWC Women’s Club of Plant City is holding their annual barbeque chicken dinner to support scholarships for local high school students that will be attending Hillsborough Community College. This will be catered by Johnson Barbeque and will take place on Thursday October 13th from 4-6:30 p.m. at the Depot in Plant City. This is a take-out dinner and will be packaged in a take-home box ready for you to enjoy. Tickets are $10, and can be obtained from a member of the Woman’s Club. For further information, call Judy Glorioso at 813-757-6004. ********** Don’t forget the Chamber’s Strawberry Classic Car Show on Saturday, October 15th in downtown Plant City at 4 p.m. ********** ATTENTION The Chamber wants to bring our businesses closer together in a fun setting, to meet other businesses in our city and network with them. With that in mind the Chamber is holding a BOWLING TOURNAMENT. This will take place on Thursday, October 27th at the Family Bowl in Plant City. The tournament will run from 2 to 6 pm The idea is to get businesses and companies to enter a team which consists of 4 players. What business wouldn’t want “bragging” rights when they win? The cost to enter a team is $100. Get your fellow employees together and let’s make this tournament a fun event. Call the Chamber at 813-754-3707 to enter your team or for additional information. Happy Bowling!

CHAMBER RiBBon Cuttings National Health Insurance Agencies, Inc. / Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Contact: Doreen Patterson Phone: (813) 754-1413 Fax: (813) 654-6986 Email: doreencpatterson@aol.com

South Florida Baptist Hospital Cancer Resource Center 1708 West Palmetto Avenue, Plant City, Florida 33563-7238 Phone: 813-757-1200 WebSite: www.sjbhealth.org

Right at Home of Plant City 1905 West Baker Street, Suite A, Plant City, FL 33563-1601 Contact: Tino Suarez Phone: (813) 764-9290 Fax: (813) 764-9352 WebSite: www.right-at-home-pc.com Email: rahofplantcity@verizon.net

Dental Associates at Walden Woods, Inc. 512 East Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 33563-7165 Contact: Ray Gutierrez, D.M.D. & Sarah Deeds, D.M.D. Phone: (813) 752-3030 Fax: (813) 752-0132

www.dentalassociateswaldenwoods.com

Plant City is a community heavily rooted in agriculture. And although our strawberries get the glory, there are many other aspects of the agriculture industry that thrive in our area. Farm animals have been established here far longer. I recently had an opportunity to speak with Dr. Larry Britt and Dr. Carrie Porter, both of Roadrunner Veterinary Clinic (which will soon be known as Central Florida Equine Associates).

For the Love of Animals Britt and Porter are Caring for Animals and Educating Owners Interview by Brian West Photos by Mike Floyd

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Roadrunner Veterinary C Roadrunner Veterinary Clinic

Focus: How did you become interested in veterinary medicine? Britt: A long time ago, I used to go to the State Fair in Tampa when it was on the riverbank. I’d walk through the cows. All I ever wanted to do was work on cows. I started my practice off thinking I was going to do hogs and cows, but it doesn’t take long to figure out that if that’s what you’re going to do, you’re going to go broke. So I started treating horses. Before vet school I was offered to play with the New York Giants farm system. Daddy said, “Son, if you do that, I’ll never help you again. If you go to veterinary school, I’ll help you.” And I’m not stupid. He knew I’d never make it to the majors. Porter: I grew up on the horse side of things and I always wanted all kinds of random pets. My mom always said she was raising a veterinarian. I used to ride horses and compete in distance/endurance rides. I always got to see the horse that was the true athlete. That’s why I’ve always been so intrigued by them and wanted to work on horses that are actually used for something, whether for pleasure or sports. That’s where the sports medicine comes into play. Focus: Where did you go to school? Britt: I have a Bachelors and a Masters from the University of Florida and I have a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn. Porter: I went to school at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. Both my undergraduate degree in Animal Science and my doctorate in veterinary medicine were obtained at NCSU. Focus: How long have you been practicing? Britt: 42 years. I taught at Auburn for about a year when I finished college and then went to Birmingham for 35 years before returning to Plant City. I came back to take care of my momma and daddy whose health was failing. My mom has passed, but my dad is still alive at 92. I grew up here in Plant City, so that’s why I’m here. Daddy always

wanted us to be veterinarians. I don’t know why, but I kind of picked up on that. I have two brothers who own a small animal practice together in Birmingham. Focus: Tell me about your work. Britt: I work on most of the horses in the area and the few cattle that get done. Most people just can’t afford to take care of their cattle right now the way they need to. We’re providing total health care for horses and cows. We advise the owners on what to do and what not to do, the vaccines they should use, the feed they should provide and those kinds of things. General horse healthcare is the kind of thing we try to help owners understand. We handle the emergencies and hopefully they’ll call us before the animal has two feet in the grave, which is much more common today because people just don’t have the money they need to care for their animals the way they could. Porter: Our focus right now, especially with the upcoming Strawberry Festival and additional livestock events, is to hold educational seminars in the next couple of months for students and their parents. Topics discussed at each seminar will include the basics of animal husbandry, Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Standards, as well as more information pertaining to the health of their animals. They’ll learn where to give the injections and how they’re supposed to handle various medications and vaccines to ensure the animal is benefiting as they first intended. Many owners are choosing to perform their own veterinary care to cut costs and save money; however, we still recommend that they keep an open relationship with their veterinarian. Anyone can give an animal a vaccine. It’s understanding, proper handling, administration techniques, as well as how it protects the animal that a great relationship with a veterinarian can provide. We also want what’s best for the animal, which means better care and adequate immunity from diseases that the vaccines provide. We hope to teach students basic physical exam skills including taking a temperature and a heart rate, as well as being able to look at their animal and know that it’s time to call their vet when the animal is just “not right.”

Continued on page 40

Focus: So what’s the current focus with your work? Porter: I am focusing more on the equine side of things with specific interest in breeding and reproductive work, as well as lameness and caring for the equine athlete, whether that’s the barrel, cutting, or eventing horse. I just like to see owners who take care of their horses and enjoy them, whatever sport that may be in. I want to help owners manage their equine athlete so the animal performs at its peak for itself as well as its rider.

vacation in 10 years next week. I’m going to visit Washington D.C. By bringing in another doctor, I can spread my load a little.

Britt: Right now, probably about 5 percent is here at the office and 95 percent is in the field. We’re trying to get more of the business here at the office. It’s much easier to manage here. A lot of our equipment costs a lot of money and we’re less likely to tear the machines up using them here at the clinic.

Porter: And I’m bringing the new medicine to the practice; all of the most recent breakthroughs in veterinary medicine with the use of new equipment and new technology to better help our patients. We have a CBC and chemistry machine, so we can run our own blood work in-house. Most veterinarians usually have to send it off, but we are able to read results and tell you what’s going on in about 15 minutes. We have digital radiography, which is portable so it can be taken on the road and x-rays can be processed at the farm. We also have a portable digital ultrasound, which is very important in breeding, as well as for lameness exams. By using the ultrasound, we can image the tendons and associated injuries to pinpoint the site of injury and routinely recheck to ensure timely healing. Having these tools enhance our practice and allow more diagnostic evaluation of our patients, ensuring the best care for them as well.

Porter: It’s also another option for the owners. If they don’t want to have a $70-$100 trip charge, they can bring their animal here to us when they’re able to plan their week out. Many times it’s more economical and convenient for them.

Britt: Also, while this equipment is portable, we still encourage our clients to schedule appointments at the clinic so that all of these diagnostic modalities are available right then and right now for their horses.

Focus: What are some of the struggles you’re experiencing, aside from the impact of the bad economy on the owners?

Focus: So what does veterinary medicine look like in our area in the future?

Focus: How much of your work is in the field vs. here in the office?

Porter: I think we run into a lot of owners that just are not very familiar with the proper care and handling of their large animals, but I think we can ratify a lot of that. We’re starting to host a seminar series here at the clinic. Every month we’ll have a Power Point presentation to educate them on various veterinary topics. That’s part of our job, teaching the common things that happen frequently; teaching them the signs as well as what a vet may do when they come out. I think this prevents owners from getting a bill that could be a few hundred dollars, and after the vet leaves thinking, “Wow. I just spent all this money and I don’t even know what they did.” That’s my biggest push when I arrive at the farm. I want to explain exactly what I see, exactly what that means and exactly what I’m going to do to help the animal. Focus: You brought Porter on to help expand your business. What’s behind your reasoning? Britt: I give everyone 24/7, 365 days a year. It doesn’t matter if you call me at four o’clock in the afternoon or four o’clock in the morning, I’ll be there. I’m taking my first

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Britt: I’ve been doing this for 42 years, and I don’t intend to retire anytime soon. People are going to end up not having a cow veterinarian in about 10 years. No one is going into bovine work. There’s no money in it, and when the owner finally calls, they want you to perform a miracle. The youngsters in 4H and FFA today will own cows in the future. If they don’t learn to trust their veterinarian, they aren’t going to have one because no one is going to get out and do the work. Then they’re going to be stuck. I just want the younger kids to get used to calling their veterinarian. Porter: I had a graduating class of 85, and 12 of those went into doing horse work. Two of the 85 went into doing cow work. Britt and Porter are very passionate about what they do for a living. You can sense their great love of animals as they talk about their work. That work is a necessity in caring for farm animals and we appreciate their service. Thanks, Dr. Britt and Dr. Porter, for all your efforts. Best of luck in the future.

Business Focus

Showcasing our neighborhood businesses

Curves

Huntington Learning Center

Plant City Automotive

Septic Pros

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(This is a paid advertising section)

Business Focus

813-719-1822

Curves

1822 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563

Convenient and Efficient Fitness for Women

helped tremendously in my delivery. My body was never put on hold and my muscles were constantly being worked. It kept my metabolism rate high, I didn’t gain as much and losing the weight has been very easy.” What we promise each and every woman that walks through our door is that we will work as hard as we can to help you become a more stronger, confident, happy, more focused, selfconfident YOU. We will hold you

accountable. Give us a chance to help you become that woman. Call us today for a FREE, NO STRINGS ATTACHED, Fitness Assessment to get you started on the journey to become your best YOU. Take that first step by calling 813-7191822 today. Then come down meet new people and see that you ARE accepted and even celebrated, as you become the person you were meant to be.

Bonnie Gwin -New Owner, Kristy Ross-Zumba Instructor, and Diane Osborne-Curves Circuit Coach. Bonnie has over 6 years experience with Curves. Kristy teaches 5 Curves Circuit with Zumba Fitness classes a week that will keep you burning tons of calories. Diane has been a Curves Circuit Coach for over 3 1/2 years.

hy Curves? Have you ever found yourself asking this very same question? The answer is that you owe it to yourself to be a strong, healthy, and more confident you. Not only do you owe it to yourself, but you owe it to everyone you love in your life because when you love yourself and how you feel, it benefits everyone in your life. The healthier you are, the better your chances are of being around those you love for a longer length of time. How you feel affects every aspect of your life, including your daily perspective and attitude. My name is Bonnie Gwin and I am the new owner of the Curves in Plant City. I have managed the club for six years and in June had the amazing opportunity of becoming the owner. I have a strong passion for strengthening women in our community. Curves’ facilities are specifically designed for women. We feature a complete workout and weight management program that is fun, fast, and safe. We provide the most advanced fitness technology in the

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world, CURVESSMART. This personal coaching system, based on your specific fitness level, will maximize your workout and will keep you motivated at the same time. Carolyn Sharkas, who has lost 115 pounds, says, “There were days I didn’t want to stick to my diet and exercise regimen, but with motivation from the people here and hard work and dedication, I am proof that you can do anything.”

Before

after

Leslie Simmons, who worked out while she was pregnant, states, “Working out helped tremendously in my delivery. My body was never put on hold and my muscles were constantly being worked. It kept my metabolism rate high. I didn’t gain as much and losing the weight has been very easy.” Leslie now weighs 8 pounds less than she did before she was pregnant.

We also have Curves Circuit with Zumba that will help women get the most out of their workout and burn hundreds of calories because it’s fun. You will actually want to work out. Isn’t Curves for older women? This idea couldn’t be farther from the truth. We have as girls as young as nine working out with their mothers. We have ladies in their eighties as well. Our goal in Curves is to strengthen millions of women one woman at a time. Leslie Simmons, who worked out while she was pregnant, states, “Working out

Before

after

Carolyn Sharkas, who has lost 115 pounds, says, “There were days I didn’t want to stick to my diet and exercise regimen, but with motivation from the people here and hard work and dedication, I am proof that you can do anything.

Business Focus

813-681-1500

Huntington Learning Center

Empowering your children with the skills to succeed meet with their teachers and do regular evaluation testing. Working together is about more than driving home a concept. It’s also about emphasizing the importance of education and letting the student know they are supported wherever they go. Accreditations by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Council on Accreditation and School Improvements (CASI) help Huntington draw teachers with high standards, broad backgrounds and experience. Huntington Learning Center is located in the Bloomingdale Professional Center at 1590 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, next to Bloomingdale High School. For more information call 813681-1500 or visit the website at www. brandon.huntingtonlearning.com. Molly Coovert attends Plant City High School and is instructed by Mrs. Dion.

or families whose children might be struggling in math or reading comprehension, or for those who need FCAT or other test prep help, Huntington Learning Center offers solutions. A nationwide tutoring and test prep company, Huntington, the oldest supplemental educator in the United States, was founded by educators and is consistently finding new ways to raise the academic bar to challenge students to reach their fullest potential. Charles and Brenda Dion are the owners of the Huntington Learning Center in Valrico. Their son Matthew came to Huntington for SAT test prep. Huntington’s preparation and Matthew’s commitment helped him to increase his score by 200 points. They were so pleased that they wanted all students and parents to experience this opportunity that remains the cornerstone of what they do.

1590 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, FL www.brandon.huntingtonlearning.com Following are comments from people in your community about their Huntington experience: “I am a repeat customer,” says Kathy McNelis,” my son came here two years ago for college prep and I was impressed with the individualized program and the fact that he really enjoyed going. ” Her daughter Molly is a current student of the center. Marie Bartholomew, who sends her daughter Kristina, offered this compliment: “At first there were early education issues and through Huntington’s individualized program they diagnosed them right away. She has made straight A’s since first grade. She is in the 8th grade now and instead of having to spend three hours a day on homework, she spends only one due to study skills she has learned.” Huntington Learning Center is located in the Bloomingdale Professional Center at 1590 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, next to Bloomingdale High School. For more information call 813-681-1500 or visit the website at www.brandon.huntingtonlearning. com.

Students are given an academic evaluation to target their specific needs. Whether it’s math, reading comprehension, writing, phonics, or study skills, Huntington is prepared to help the student meet and exceed the specific need. For over 20 years in Plant City, Valrico, and the surrounding areas, Huntington has helped thousands of students. Individualized tutoring is provided for all grade levels by keeping the ratio of teacher to student four-to-one. Also, we provide one-to-one tutoring to younger students, as well as for the ACT and SAT test prep, all performed by state certified instructors who teach the curriculum at a comfortable pace. Each child is different, as is their ability to grasp new concepts; so the program difficulty increases gradually, giving the student the benefit of mastering the concept and gaining the confidence he needs to be successful. It doesn’t stop at the center. Huntington partners with the student’s school to

Huntington Learning Center in Valrico has been helping students for over twenty years.

Anna Williams is a senior at Newsome High School and is instruced by Mr. Dennis foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Business Focus

Plant City Automotive

Celebrates a 4-Year Leap of Faith

t seems like yesterday that I opened my daily devotional called Our Daily Bread and the topic was called Leap of Faith. My body had endured 11 years of hard work after a motorcycle accident, which I call “a spanking from God” and it finally said enough. I prayed about what to do to continue supporting my family, and in August 2007 the opportunity arose to acquire Plant City Automotive. When I opened the book and saw “Leap of Faith,” followed by “Reformation” the following day, I knew my prayers were being answered. That was four years ago and my faith has remained strong. The combination of God’s blessings, great clients, fair practices, and a good heart has kept us going during bleak economic times. But it all started with a Leap of Faith. The shop was in pretty bad shape when I took over, and finally after four years I have put together a staff to rival the best. We offer all maintenance and repairs and do so with the utmost

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

respect to our clients. No gimmicks, bait and switch, scare tactics, or comeons with fine print attached. When you enter our door you are treated like family, not numbers. Our clients will attest to that and they do so with word of mouth. Since we don’t have a corporate deep pocket advertising budget, we rely on the good word spread because we do quality work at fair prices. We also lowered our labor rate this year and give senior discounts. My staff includes David Bermudez, whom I recruited to help me in the front office as a service advisor. His extensive experience with Hi-Tech Automotive and Tires Plus, which is also my background, affirms my confidence in him. He has a great personality and treats you like family. He is bi-lingual, very well spoken and takes a genuine interest in people. Daniel Dreby has been with me more than three years now and he is both an excellent general technician, and an expert in exhaust, both repair and

813-754-7106 Anthony Mendolia Plant City Automotive 2303 James Redman Parkway Plant City FL 33563 PlantCityAutomotive.com Customer testimonials: “We trust Tony to take care of us. He’s honest and someone you can count on,” says Jessica Bazley. “Tony is a great guy and runs a great shop! Provides us with excellent work and leaves us feeling confident on all three of our vehicles,” says Mike Coovert. “Our community is better with Tony in it,” says Jim Luciano. “He’s the best and has treated me right from the beginning. He’s honest and won’t try to sell you something you don’t need,” says Don Consolver.

written estimates good for 30 days. We don’t push or pressure anyone into anything. We inform and ultimately it is the client’s decision to make. It’s our job. It’s what we’re here for. fabrication. His welding skills are unequaled in Plant City. I myself have worked in three automotive centers here, have seen many technicians come and go, and know that he is one of a kind. Ramon Collazo Sr. is a graduate of Automeca Technical College in Caguas, Puerto Rico and has become a professor of automotive electronics since graduating. A very humble man, he also takes a lot of pride in his work. He is an expert in auto electric and automotive air conditioning and is certified in all other aspects of auto repair. In the short time he has been with me I have seen our electronic diagnostics move to the next level. We call him the “Doctor.”

expert in auto air conditioning, as well as being very proficient in repair and maintenance. With his father as his teacher, I can understand why. My wife, Holly and my daughter Nicole work behind the scenes. We are still and will remain a family-owned business and will continue to reside here in Plant City. We support local businesses and we delight in seeing our clients around town. Whether it is at Esposito’s Pizzeria on the weekends (the REAL Italian restaurant with REAL New York Pizza) or at the supermarket; we can always say hello to you.

warranty. We offer free pick-up and delivery, and I even come to the shop after hours and on weekends to either take a vehicle in or to give a completed one back to its owner when they can’t make it during regular business hours. That’s the customer service that I grew up with in small shops and that I didn’t see much of in the corporate world.

We have a website, PlantCityAutomotive.com which always has a coupon or two for printing. We can match most coupons from other businesses and again, we use no gimmicks or bait and switch tactics. We will look your vehicle over, give you an analysis and prioritize any We service all makes and models services we recommend. We follow of cars and light trucks including European, Asian and Domestic brands. manufacturer’s recommendations Ramon Collazo Jr. is also a graduate of We use only premium parts and every and stamp your owner’s manual for warranty purposes. We also give free Automeca Technical College and is an job carries a one year or 12,000 mile

We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, debit cards, checks and beginning Sept 1st, we will offer a three percent discount for cash. Card companies charge retailers a fee to process transactions. I’d rather give the money to the people than give it to the credit card companies. We want to be your one stop shop. I keep all records and the best way to keep up with what you’ve done is to keep it in one place. Thank you to all my loyal clients, too many to name, for helping our shop become a success in an awful economic atmosphere. Without you we could never have made it, and ultimately all thanks and praise goes to God for bringing you here. Thank you and God Bless.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Business Focus

813-727-6905

Septic Pros

The Experts in Quality Pumping and Installation for Business and Residential

(Formerly quality pumping of central florida)

Drain field: New Installations and Repair Locally owned and operated is more than just a saying to this Plant City area family. The service area extends to Plant City, Brandon, Hillsborough and Polk Counties. The Bryants are members of the Plant City Goldmine Chapter of Business Network International (BNI) and contributors to the United Way. They are also supporters of youth through contributions to area high school programs and the Florida Strawberry Festival. Supporting who and where they live is an important part of the family and business. Some would say, “It’s just who they are.”

The Septic Pros Family: Douglas Riley, Dianne Bryant, Shaun Bryant and son Brody.

uality Pumping of Central Florida is excited to announce its new and more definitive name - Septic Pros. The phone number, 813-727-6905, hasn’t changed as the company has been locally owned and operated by the Bryant family since 2009. This new name is a bold statement of the commitment each and every member of the team has for what they do and for the service they provide. Combining consistent performance with affordable pricing is just one way the Bryants and their employees provide excellent customer service. The following are questions that owner Shaun Bryant, a Master Plumber himself, answers frequently: • Do I have to be home when my septic tank is being pumped? • Does a blockage mean my septic tank needs to be pumped? Bryant has answers, too. It is recommended that homeowners have their septic tank pumped every 3-5 years. New construction and businesses have different septic needs than residential. The experts at Septic

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Pros will make sure those needs are met in every situation. No matter the size or the type of the job, customers can trust Septic Pros, a company that operates by the principles of honesty and integrity.

Septic Pros offers a wide variety of service ranging from:

Septic Tank: New Installations, Maintenance, Inspections, Pumping, and Cleaning Bryant received his start early on, Grease Trap: learning the trade, acquiring his license New Installation, Maintenance, and finally achieving the American Routine Pump-Outs, and Emergency dream of owning his own business, one Services for Restaurants and he has sustained now for three years. Businesses His mother, Dianne Bryant, retired after 36 years with TECO and is now taking this journey with Shaun. She manages the administrative facets of the office. Their commitment and dedication transfers to everyone and everything involved in meeting the needs of the company’s customers. From personnel, trucks and equipment, and daily operational activities, they can expect to experience top-notch service. “Being someone that people can count on” is important to Douglas Riley, who operates the truck for Septic Pros. “Getting the job done right and on the first visit is a must in this business,” says Doug.

For all your new construction, residential and business septic tank needs, be sure to give them a call. This is not just a business for the family and its employees, but a way of life. Consistency, accountability and resolution are three words that aptly describe the Septic Pros. Moneysaving would be another. Be sure to see their Focus ad for your discount.

Douglas pumping a septic tank for a residential home

REMCO

Locally Owned and Operated Since 1975

TRANSMISSIONS

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CHANGING PLANT CITY’S OIL SINCE 1988

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At PrimeCare Plant City, you get more than just medical attention; you get our undivided attention. With complete health care services, we offer everything from routine checkups to treatments of minor emergencies. Above all, we offer patients the kind of old-fashioned, personal service that's hard to find these days.

Stop by to take a tour of our office and meet the doctors & staff.

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813-717-9000 • 1706 South Alexander Street Plant City, Fl 33563 Regular Office Hours: Monday thru Friday 8AM-5PM (Lunch 12 NOON - 1PM) SE HABLA ESPANOL foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

SAVE the Date 11/11/11 Come out and support your favorite DWTL Couples Ben Cook & Madi Cook Olan Deguzman & Tracy Connell Charles Harris & Tara Smith Michael Watkins & Victoria Watkins Doug Driggers & Kelleigh Klein Faustino Rios & Debbie Hawkins Gary & Tina Pike Angel & Courtney Paat Marcus Caswell & Traci Walding Mike & Heather Espisito

Open

Sponsorships still available and tickets are on sale now Call Brett Mueller for more information

813-752-6193

Visit us on Facebook and look at last years couples 48

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

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Poolside at the Plant City YMCA Saturday, October 15, 2011 6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. $35 all you can eat from local area restaurants For more information, contact the Welcome Center at 813.757.6677 Must be 21 over older to attend.

Luau Sponsors 2011

RAFT SPONSOR

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Resturant Sponsors 2011 Chili’s Dairy Queen Fred’s Plant City Market Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant Nick’s Pizzaria O’Briens Irish Pub & Grill - New Doors - Used Doors - Electric Openers

- 42 Years Experience - Insured

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Outback Steakhouse Panera Bread Pig-Men of Plant City Sonic Drive-in Sweetbay Supermarkets

Don’t miss the Plant City Family YMCA 5K Turkey Trot >>11.05.11 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Plant Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hometown Plumber You Can Depend On

FREDDIE MULLIS PLUMBING, INC. (Not F.C. Mullis Plumbing)

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Only Plumber Recommended By The

HOME GUIDE

Find Your new Home TodaY!

This is a special advertising section

Presents

ANOTHER WEDGEWOOD HOME

This 4 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath Arthur Rutenburg built home sits majestically at the end of the cul-de-sac and features large bedrooms, family w/wet bar, formal living & dining rooms, pool, huge lot and more. $279,900

Natalie Sweet Realtor* (813) 758-9586

EVERYONE LOVES WEDGEWOOD

Entertain in style in this Arthur Rutenburg built home set for large family gatherings and parties. featuring 4000 sq' living area, 4 large bedrooms, office, family room, game room, pool & spa, 1/2 A lot & more. $360,000

Cathy Martin Realtor* (813) 376-0891

Angel Miller Realtor* (813) 546-9863

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City

Call us for your Residential, Commercial, and Property Management Needs

813-754-3586 www.floridamoves.com/plantcity

NEW HOMES!

EXECUTIVE RENTAL

Stop by and visit Park Place, the only new home community on the north side of town. Features include Jaycor Homes’ signature “brick kitchen”; Energy Star Efficiency standards like foam insulated block construction, Thermal Low E double paned windows, tankless hot water heater, and much more to save you money. Stop by and visit the Model Center or call our office for an appointment, 813-754-3586. Several models to choose from! Priced from the low $170’s.

Single family detached condo in gated community within Walden Lake. Split great room plan, 2 bedrooms, eating space in kitchen, formal dining/ den or study, enclosed Florida room with park like setting. Carefree living, grounds maintained by HOA. $1200.00 monthly. Call Maddie Alford 813-382-8383

SAVE! SAVE! SAVE!

FAIRWAY WOODS

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Classic home in prestigious Walden Lake neighborhood. Views of golf course and park. Formal living and dining. Kitchen and family room with fireplace, large under roof lanai, resort like pool with pavers. Great family gathering home. Call Maddie Alford at 813-382-8382 to preview. $269,500.

Two block homes built in 2005 on over 1 acre of land. The first home has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a 2 car garage and 1,406 heated square feet. The second home has 1 bedroom, 1 bath, 1 car carport with an in-ground pool in between the two homes. Priced to sell at $221,900. Not a short sale! Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

SOUTHERN HISTORIC CHARM

COMMERCIAL IN TOWN

INDUSTRIAL PARK

Step back in time to this restored 1917 home in the Historic District of Plant City. This home is very unique from the moment you walk in the front foyer and notice one of the fi ve (5) fi replaces that are positioned throughout the home. Features 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a den and a bonus room that could be a 4th bedroom. The spacious 2,756 heated sq ft are protected with a 6 year old roof and a 3 year old A/C. The screened pool can be entered from French doors leading off the master suite, family room or the updated kitchen. There is an outdoor kitchen including a fi replace, grill, refrigerator, sink and sit-down bar. If you are looking for that one-of-a-kind home, this is the one for you. MLS T2485186; $ 325,000. Call Jimmie Robinson 813-390-6441.

Be your own boss and own this full service automotive shop with several bays, metal building, with offices. Building was built in 2005. Actual heated square footage is 1000 sq ft as measured by builder’s plans. Zoned C-1. MLS T2424376, $ 500,000. Call Jimmie Robinson 813-390-6441

Large metal warehouse and office in the industrial park of Plant City. Total sq ft 5,722 with 1800 heated sq ft of office space. Zoned CU. MLS T2472481, $249,900. Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441

Custom construction “energy star” certified homes in gated community. Several model starting at $174,500, large lots, detached workshop! Call Maddie Alford at 813-382-8382 for information on homes and financing options. Veterans welcome!!

SOUTHERN BEAUTY

Take a look at this 5+ Acre Ranch with fence and lush pasture. 2-Story home with apartment and barn features a relaxing front porch, gleaming wood fl oors and crown molding; butler pantry and wet bar and an amazing kitchen with stainless steel appliances and corian countertops. French doors invite you outside to view the pond, or walk to the barn with 2 stalls, tack and feed room and outside wash stall. The 5+ car garage has more than enough space for a work shop, horse trailer, boat or any of your toys! Take your bike, horse or walk to The State Deer Reserve just moments away. This is “Country Living” at its best! New Listing with a new price! Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

PRICED TO SELL

4 Commercial Lots available and ready for your business. Zoned CG. MLS T2478814, $150,000. Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441

real estate » walden lake

Walden Lake T

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at 6:00p.m. at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting will be September 19th. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents.

To have a complete understanding of the amenities we have for the nominal Homeowner’s Association Fee of $426 we pay each year, you need to consider what surrounding communities currently pay. This information is from MLS and is deemed to be reliable.

“Your professionalism is one of the highest quality and it has been my pleasure dealing with you and everyone you sent to my home.” - Grace Bailey

Review submitted By: natalie sweet

and what it takes to maintain a community the size of ours. While sitting in the monthly board meetings, I am amazed at how careful the Board is to spend our money. No major capital output is ever considered without being completely scrutinized. The Board of Directors are Walden Lake residents and as a result they are considerate of all the residents. We have a beautiful community with many amenities that most communities do not have. I applaud the Board for the wonderful job they have done in the past and present. Their continued service helps keep up the value of our homes.

The new General Manager of Walden Lake Golf & Country Club, Sven Nelson, would like to announce the Grand • Trapnell Ridge, which is accessed off Opening of Steve’s World of Golf on Lone Oak Rd, has Annual HOA dues of October 1st. This company is owned by $400 per year. Steve Pitts, who services 12 other pro • Magnolia Green off Trapnell Rd has shops in Central Florida. Steve’s World Annual HOA dues off $600 per year. of Golf will be providing all name brand There is a community pool and small park. equipment, clothing, shoes, golf balls and • Whispering Woods, which is behind accessories. They and the Club are very the police station and the post office, has excited about this partnership and to have Annual HOA dues of $820 per year. There the opportunity to serve the Walden Lake is a community pool, and small park. Community. • Walden Reserve is a gated community off Trapnell Rd with Annual HOA dues at Sven also tells me that the first dinners of $600 per year. the year under the new management have • Walden Pointe, just outside the Mud been a huge success. I was at dinner on Lake/Charlie Griffin Walden Lake September 1st and can say firsthand that entrance, has an Annual HOA dues of the food was excellent and the other 40 $254 per year. people I was with were extremely happy • Royal Hills and Country Hills off with the changes. The Club offers dinner Turkey Creek Rd. has an Annual HOA on the first and third Thursdays and the dues ranging between $150-$280 per year. second and forth Fridays of each month. • River Hills in Valrico, a beautiful golf Reservations are preferred. community similar to Walden Lake, with the exception that it is gated 24 hours per Be on the watch for the October Focus day, the HOA Annual Fees range between Magazine, when I will be reporting the $1200-$1500 per year. There is a golf & Walden Lake real estate stats for the third country club, which requires a separate quarter. I have had many residents tell membership. me they look forward to reading this. As always, feel free to call me with any real Often, we take for granted the costs to estate questions or on this article that you continually improve the common areas, may have, 813-758-9586.

FLOORING SALES AND INSTALLATION

CRAWFORD-HILL I N T E R I O R S ,

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813-754-6898

1407 E. Baker St., Plant City • www.crawford-hill.com

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Almost PArAdise mountAin Home rentAl Almost PArAdise For a wonderful experience of unsurpassed natural beauty in the North Georgia Mountains. This creek front home is situated in a valley with beautiful mountain views in all directions. Sit on the porch and enjoy the Deer and Turkey grazing. The Fall Season is waiting for you.

VBro.com owner listing 38719 or cAll tHe owners directly 752-1333 or 478-1988 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

PERFECT FOR THE DO-IT-YOURSELFERS

real estate » mortgage

ALL WOOD, NO PARTICLE BOARD

MENTION THIS AD FOR 10 % OFF

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813-752-3378 www.brokepoor.com

Located Between Lakeland and Plant City

Is it better toor ahave Foreclosure a Short Sale on your record? S submitted By: nate davis

hort Sales and Foreclosures have been rampant over the last few years and I often hear the question: Should I short sale my house or just let it go back to the bank/foreclose? With regards to future eligibility to purchase another home with a loan, and the credit score impact, your best bet is to short sale your home if you are no longer able to afford the payments. Please notice that we are not advocating that you short sale your home, because it is now worth less than what you owe, or because you can buy a nicer home for less of a payment, etc. The ethics of the “strategic default” can be saved for another article. But back to the story….

situation, but in the lending world it is viewed the same as a foreclosure. The main difference is that a deed in lieu of a foreclosure may save you from any potential judgment against you from the lender for the balance of what was owed and what it sells for at auction. Including a home in a bankruptcy may initially avoid a foreclosure, however in the lending world, if a mortgage is included in a bankruptcy then it is still treated as the worst case scenario (as a foreclosure).

You are able to be approved for a new loan in less time after a short sale is completed than a foreclosure or a deed in lieu of foreclosure. You can typically sell a home via short sale faster than a foreclosure process. This also stops the negative If you are approved for a short sale, or impact of the late payment accruals on if you are going into foreclosure, it is your credit report quicker. In addition, assumed that you are delinquent on your often times a realtor assisting with a short payments and that your credit is likely sale may be able to negotiate a deficiency trashed as a result of many recent late waiver with the lender. This means that payments being reported to the credit a judgment for the difference in the sale bureaus. Once a short sale or foreclosure is price and what was actually owed, may not completed, then the bleeding stops, so to be issued. I see this more often than not. speak, with regards to the late payments A short sale does not hurt your score the reporting on your credit bureau. Often way a foreclosure followed by judgment times it is the number of late payments either. leading up to a short sale/foreclosure that is most damaging as opposed to the actual So in short, it is really a no-brainer when event of the short sale or foreclosure. it comes to how to proceed if you cannot afford your current home and are behind Giving the home back, sending in the on your payments. The above assumes keys, basically anything that includes a that a modification or work out plan was Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure may feel not able to be reached with you and your like the nicest way to get out of a bad lender.

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

1507 S. Alexander St. Suite 101 Plant City, FL 33563

813.707.6200

PCM

PLANT CITY W W W . P L A N T C I T Y M O R T G A G E S . C O M M O R T G A G E

NMLS# 289323

Nate Davis

President- Loan Ofﬁcer

Natasha Davis

Vice President- Ofﬁce Manager

Carol Barton Administrator

C O R P

Sherri Judah Administrator

Paul Pritt Loan Ofﬁcer

Tom Roe

Loan Ofﬁcer

Barbara Hall Loan Ofﬁcer

Rick Norman Loan Ofﬁcer

Don Scarmuzzi Loan Ofﬁcer

Jaida Davis

Ofﬁce Assistant

Paitlyn Davis Ofﬁce Assistant

Buster Davis Security

PRICES ARE GREAT, BUT WAIT UNTIL YOU SEE OUR RATES! Check out the 3 minute video at

www.PlantCityMortgages.com

to see exactly how and why we provide better deals than any bank, lender, or credit union.

“Working with Nate and his team at Plant City Mortgage made our purchase of a shortsale property effortless. Nate deﬁnitely

knows what he is doing, which really took a lot of the stress off of us. The only thing we didn’t get out of working with Nate was a horror story like those heard from so

many others that have purchased short-sale

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- Hunter Drawdy and Amanda Wetherington

USDA loans – 0% down no monthly mortgage insurance Conventional LOANS – 5-20% DOWN (Investment homes, Vacation Homes, Primary Homes)

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

SEPTEMBER 16 RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

OCTOBER 2 “JUST CALL ME PEGGY” A TRIBUTE TO MARGARET MITCHELL

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

Join this special Sunday Tea with a reading by Marjorie York with her one woman show of “Just Call Me Peggy,” a tribute to Gone With The Wind author, Margaret Mitchell; cast members will also be in attendence to sign autographs and talk about their experience of being in one of the greatest films of all time! (In cooperation with “Gone With The Wind Memories” of Plant City)

SEPTEMBER 30 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

OCTOBER 7, 14, 22 & 29 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

SEPTEMBER 17 & 23 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

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

SEPTEMBER 24 THE MYSTICS

The Mystics, including, original members of the group, George Galfo and Phil Cracolici, will perform their hits, including their number one chart topper “Hushabye.” P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

OCTOBER 1 1861 BALL

In cooperation with “Gone With The Wind Memories” of Plant City, it’s a Tribute to one of America’s top novels and films! Come see and meet original Gone With the Wind cast members, Mickey Kuhn and Patrick Curtis. Music from the 97th Regimental String Band. Period costumes welcome, but not required. Doors open 6:30, Dinner served at 7:00, 1861 Ball Events at 8:00.

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

OCTOBER 8 LOLA & THE SAINTS

Doo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.” Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

OCTOBER 15 & 21 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

OCTOBER 28 COVER TO COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today! Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

NOVEMBER 12 FROM THE SAHARA HOTEL IN VEGAS –

A SALUTE TO THE

PLATTERS, COASTERS, DRIFTERS AND TEMPTATIONS FOR ST. JUDE

Myles Salvage’s act from Las Vegas comes to Plant City to help benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The annual

event includes Dinner in a Supper Club atmosphere and great musical talent to dance the night away... for a very good cause. Call about our new Tiered Pricing!

NOVEMBER 18 COVER TO COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today! Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

NOVEMBER 19 & 25 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

NOVEMBER 26 LOLA & THE SAINTS

A Red Rose favorite. Great hits from the 50s & 60s. Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

Coming Soon ! DECEMBER 10 CHRIS MACDONALD

“ELVIS”

The magic of “the King or Rock-n-roll” in a truly dynamic performance celebrating the life and music of one of the greatest entertainers and pop culture icons of our time. Destiny opens and closes the show!

DECEMBER 16 THE FOUR ACES

It’s a “Winter Wonderland Dinner Dance”in the Ballroom as the dynamic group perform their hits: Three Coins in a Fountain, Shangri-La, Tell Me Why, and more!

DECEMBER 31 NEW YEARS EVE

It’s a celebration not to miss! Ballroom and Dining room performances of The Legacy of the Temptations and the World Famous Platters. Be part of the big COUNTDOWN... Call for pricing and details.

TEL: 813.752.3141 • I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563 • www.RedRoseInnAndSuites.com

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

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The Bottom Line in a Down Economy… T submitted By: jo-ann lusk

here is enough negative news to discuss lately, which is normal in this down economy. Nonetheless, buyers are finding great bargains in the housing market and sellers are still selling. There has even been an increase in Corporate Relocation activity and that is a good sign for employment numbers. Here is a brief report on (Residential: Single Family Homes) Real Estate in Plant City from January through July: Active (For Sale) Listings as of July 31: 5175 (31% are distressed sales)

yn rol - Ca

EF O RE

real estate » jo-ann lusk

Sold: 685 (45% are distressed) Under Contract as of July 31: 753 (57% are distressed) Real Estate Agents will tell you that they are having a tough time finding homes for their buyers. You might think to yourself… “That should drive prices up”… well, not quite and not yet. One thing occurring on a regular basis is homes that hit the market and because of the price, they sell very quickly and with multiple offers. Multiple offers can quickly drive the list price even higher; however, it still

must appraise (that’s another story). In addition, some banks are slowly releasing some of their foreclosed inventory, which in direct competition with the rest of the market.

In my office, 39% of our listings that hit the market since February 2011 sold within 30 days, at nearly 98% of list price. That goes back to what I seem to put in every article I write…”If it’s priced right, it will sell”. What also happens is that as the Days on Market increases, the percentage of Sold-to-List Price drops each month to a low of 89% of List Price at 120+ dayson-market. In real estate, there’s another saying that goes… “The longer your home stays on the market, the less it sells for”. We all know certain things must happen before the housing market can recover. At the same time, a housing recovery will certainly stimulate the economy. Efforts are underway in Washington, DC for industry leaders to meet at the White House for a Housing Summit. These leaders and professionals have ideas that need to be heard, so perhaps we’ll hear a report on that in the near future. Here’s to a brighter tomorrow…

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

WE HAVE MOVED!

Here at Team Wainoris, we are very excited. We have moved to Superior Property Management and Sales, LLC! Why is that exciting to you? Because we can now offer our clients more real estate services than ever! At Superior, we have joined a professional real estate team with one of the areas largest established property management divisions. We are now able to offer our clients and investor buyers many more options; including residential, commercial and property management services. Previously, we were not able to offer our clients so many services. Whether you are buying, selling, investing, or renting; we can help you! Thinking about buying or selling? Facing a short sale and not sure where to turn? Call Team Wainoris today; we are here to help.

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WALDEN LAKE GOLF COURSE HOME 4 bedroom, 3 bath pool home on golf course. Formal living room and dining room, family room with ﬁreplace and large kitchen. Short sale: call today! Reduced to just $209,000.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

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Glass doors open into the grand foyer of this elegant custom home. Oversized dining room. Florida room directly off the huge great room w/ gas fireplace. Media room complete w/ built in speaker system & bar. This home has it all and on over 1 acre. $559,000 Unbelievable Seller Financing Terms! www.CentralFlaHomesandMore.com/845324

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Lorraine Bennett

(813) 716-3997

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

Polk Museum of Art Jessica Lange: In Mexico

Start Garden your own

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Exhibition Sponsor: Robert & Malena Puterbaugh Reception Sponsor: Fleetwing Corporation

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Learn how to plant your own orange tree at www.focusplantcity.com/ gardencenter

Lilian Garcia-Roig: En Plein Sight

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september 2011 focusplantcity.com

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business » edward jones

Women Business Need Retirement Plans Owners submitted By: edward jones

Availability varies by product type and is subject to availability and qualifications. Discount amount may vary by state.Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.

W HE RE

SEP IRA — If you have just a few employees or are self-employed with no employees, you may want to consider a SEP IRA. You’ll fund the plan with taxTo get a sense of this gap, consider these deductible contributions, and you must statistics: cover all eligible employees. Solo defined benefit plan — Pension plans, According to the U.S. Small Business also known as defined benefit plans, are Administration’s Office of Advocacy, still around — and you can set one up for 19.4% of male business owners have 401(k) or similar plans, compared with just yourself if you are self-employed or own your own business. This plan has high 15.5% of women owners. contribution limits, which are determined The percentage of female business owners by an actuarial calculation, and as is the case with other retirement plans, your with Individual Retirement Accounts contributions are typically tax-deductible. (IRAs) is about the same as that of male business owners — but the men have more money in their accounts. The average SIMPLE IRA — A SIMPLE IRA, as its name suggests, is easy to set up and woman’s IRA balance is about $51,000, compared with $91,000 for men, according maintain, and it can be a good plan if your to a recent report by the Employee Benefit business has fewer than 10 employees. Research Institute. Although these figures Still, while a SIMPLE IRA may be advantageous for your employees, it’s change constantly with the ebbs and flow less generous to you, as far as allowable of the market, the difference between the contributions, than an owner-only 401(k), genders remains significant. a SEP IRA or a defined benefit plan. One way to help close this savings gap, of course, is to set up a retirement plan As a business owner, you spend a lot of for your business. But for many women time thinking about what needs to be business owners (and male owners, too), done today, but you don’t want to forget the perceived cost of setting up and about tomorrow — so consider putting a running a retirement plan has been an retirement plan to work for you soon. obstacle. However, the retirement plan market has opened up considerably for

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Owner-only 401(k) — This plan, which is also known as an individual 401(k), is available to self-employed individuals and business owners with no full-time employees other than themselves or a spouse. You may even be able to choose a Roth option for your 401(k), which allows you to make after-tax contributions that can grow tax-free.

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f you’re a woman who owns a business, you’ve got plenty of company. In fact, women own more than 10 million U.S. companies, and women-owned businesses account for about 40% of all privately held firms in the U.S., according to the Center for Women’s Business Research. Clearly, the good news is that women like you are entering the small-business arena at a rapid pace. The not-so-good news is that you may be facing a retirement savings gap in comparison to male business owners.

With the help of a financial professional, you can consider some of the myriad of plans that may be available to you:

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small business owners over the past several years, so you might be surprised at the ease and inexpensiveness of administering a quality plan that can help you build resources for your own retirement — and help you attract and retain good employees.

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business Âť success

Kelly Morris Simple Life Outfitters A fter 13 yrs with Verizon, the opportunity presented itself. My wife Kelly and I decided it was a good time for a change. So I took a retirement package and invested in the dream we have had for a long time.

We decided (I mean our friends and ourselves) the best name would be The Simple Life Outfitters for the simple reason that many people live this kind of life, so why not make it easy to find the kind of things we all share and wear, and put them in one place. We wanted to make products easy to find, with the right family atmosphere that people would be drawn to. Being inspired by a lot of great friends and family, our goal is to make everyone a part of the Simple Life. Nowadays itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to be positive about things going on around us, so if there is

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

something positive out there like friends and family to be around. It makes life a little easier. Our greatest success is yet to come, We feel success is measured by how many people you affect in a positive way. The more customers come in and see how things used to be with the personal touch, the friendly service and just hanging out on some occasions chewing the fat, the more Simple Life can be. Our ultimate goal is for people to want to go shopping, find what they need, have fun doing it, and make new friends in the process. After all that is what The Simple Life Outfitters is all about, Sounds like fun to me.

business » success

We can help

KEEP YOUR NEST EGG from breaking.

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Long-Term Care Educational Seminar September 22, 2011 6:15 PM-7:15 PM For information or to reserve your space, call813-754-1725. Sponsored by your neighborhood State Farm Agent.

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Dianne Bryant Septic Pros (Formerly Quality Pumping) How did you get into this business? After 36 years of dedicated service to TECO, I retired, but not for long. My son, Shaun Bryant is a plumbing contractor and is owner of Pipe Pros, Inc a new construction and remodel plumbing business. Being in the contractor business, he was made aware that a septic company was for sale and thought if would be a good compliment to his business. So, I came out of my brief retirement to become the major owner of Septic Pros, formerly Quality Pumping of Central Florida.

What inspires you? Our commitment to our customers inspires us to provide the highest level of quality service possible. Pumping service calls are usually an emergency situation in which the customer needs immediate attention. The Septic Pros team prides ourselves on being readily available for evening and weekend calls to meet the needs of our customers.

When Septic Pros was fist purchased, the spread site to off load full trucks was located in Riverview. The site was not centrally located to our office and serving our customers in central Florida. In an attempt to provide better customer service and cut operating expenses we have successfully permitted and installed a spread site more centrally located to our office.

What do you have planned for your future? It is our intent to continue to grow the business in Hillsborough County and the surrounding area. We have particular interest in increasing the growth of grease trap pumping to local restaurants and foodservice businesses. Ultimately, in growing the business, we would like to increase the number of Septic Pros trucks on the road and continue serving our customers and keeping our commitment.

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REFRESHING PROMISES TO REJUVENATE YOUR SOUL Our hearts are parched, dry, dehydrated. They need moisture, a long, quenching drink. Join us as we go to the W.E.L.L. of God’s provision to refresh your thirsty heart during this series

Sunday Services at 10:45 am and 6:15 pm * Children’s Programs at all services

Wednesday Mid-Week Momentum 6:30 pm * All ages - Adults, Students, Kids, Music

EASTSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH 8137542681 1318 E. Calhoun Street, Plant City, FL Corner of Center Street & Calhoun Street

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Whether it be Cakes, Cupcakes or Cookies, our goal is to exceed your expectations!

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

sports » football

“The Raiders are considered a top five program in the county and they should contend for the district title and another run in the playoffs.”

Assistant Coach Jim Lawson preaches “Attention to Detail” Photo by Joe Bowles

All State running back Dezmond Patterson Photo by Joe Bowles

Optimism for Raider Nation Attention to Detail is the Key T he stands were overflowing with more than 6,000 fans for the first installment of Plant City High School’s football season as the Raiders defeated Strawberry Crest by a score of 69-6. Many believe that his could be the year of the Raiders, and who could argue if the first game is any indication of things to come. With Bennie Coney passing for 274 yards (three touchdowns), and perennial rushing leader Dazmond Patterson tallying 77 yards on the ground, the Raiders looked good on both sides of the ball. With few Raiders’ mistakes, Plant City made believers out of most of those in attendance.

Friday night’s win was the kind of effort that head coach Wayne Ward expected september 2011 focusplantcity.com

staff. There are ample reasons for their optimism. Ward has assembled a competent staff like running backs coach Jim Lawson, who also signals in plays from the sidelines. For Lawson, he sees the potential of the Raiders this season. “Honestly, I believe we’re going to be a very good team this year,” said Lawson. “We’ve been preaching ‘attention to detail.’ If we do that, we’ll go a long way.’”

With quarterback, Bennie Coney, who recently committed to Cincinnati, written By: Joe Bowles and receivers like Landon Galloway and Lamarlin Wiggins, a recent USF that the Raiders had more talent than out of his troops this year. Last season commit, the Raiders’ aerial attack should the Terriers, but the scoreboard showed was bittersweet for Ward, even though complement their potent ground game. Plant City High School ended the regular otherwise. Dazmond Patterson, a previous All State season with a respectable 6-4 record and selection, over the last three years has a postseason playoff appearance, things The Terriers scored two touchdowns accumulated more than 3,600 yards in could have been much better. The Raiders, within 20 seconds late in the first half. offense (2,850 rushing and 797 receiving) however, have been plagued in the past by Both scores were the result of Raiders’ with 35 touchdowns. The only question mistakes at critical times that arguably cost fumbles, one on a punt and the other might be on defense, only because the team a couple of key wins last season on a kickoff. With a short field on both defensive standout Sam Green will be out and a loss in their preseason game this possessions, Hillsborough scored twice. year. That was the difference in the Raiders 19- for a while with a broken leg suffered in 14 loss. If miscues are to be made, however, the win against the Chargers. With Jalen Butler, however, and his fellow experienced Mistakes, dropped passes, fumbles, and it’s best that they’re made in a preseason defenders, opponents should have a penalties are all a part of the game, but game when it doesn’t count. difficult time finding the end zone. for the Raiders, those miscues seemed to have come at critical times. In the Raiders’ The Raiders are considered a top five The Raiders look like a balanced team. If preseason tilt held on August 26 against program in the county and they should attention is paid to detail, and if they stay Hillsborough, spectators who watched the contend for the district title and another relatively healthy, look for a run in the game and looked at the talent on Plant run in the playoffs. No one believes playoffs beyond the first game. City’s sideline, would certainly agree this more than the Raiders coaching

fBH’s oCtoBer loCkdown on October 14th, 2011 at 6pm to 11pm - $25.00 per player. Wiffle Ball Tournament • Dodgeball Tournament Pitching and Hitting Contest and much, much more!

BaseBall Heaven CoaCHing staff Mark Persails

Benny Castillo

In 1994, Mark Persails graduated from Millington High School in central Michigan. He was immediately drafted by the Detroit Tigers and began perfecting a 98 mph fastball. That determination and talent made Mark one of the top pitching prospects in the minor leagues with the Tigers and the Houston Astros.

Benny has 15 years of Professional Baseball experience. He has played for the Detroit Tigers, Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers. He was a Manager in Minor League for the Florida Marlins and the Detroit Tigers Organization.

steve dovale

sheldon fulse

Graduated from Danbury High School in Connecticut in 1974 with 4 years of Varsity Baseball and attended Western Connecticut State College where he played baseball before he signed with the New York Mets in 1975.

18u Angels Gold

Born on November 10th, 1981 in Bartow, Florida. Sheldon played for George Jenkins High School and was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 3rd round of the 1999 MLB June Amateur Draft and then traded to Boston Red Sox in 2003.

Joe Bowles

After graduation, Bowles briefly played semi-pro baseball that summer before enrolling at the University of South Florida. Following his graduation from USF with a degree in Social Science Education, he was hired as a teacher and a varsity baseball coach at Gulf High School in New Port Richey from 1976 to 1977. Joe surrendered to fulltime service in the ministry in 1978 as the Pastor of the Shiloh Baptist Church in Plant City where he pastors today. Joe received his Master’s degree in Christian Education/ Administration from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1998.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

sports » athlete of the month

written By: Joe Bowles

Connor Hurst F or Plant City Raiders’ Golf Team member Connor Hurst, the journey is as exciting as the destination. For him, practicing, or studying, or training is enjoyable because he knows the results will be in proportion to the energy he has invested in the preparation. “I believe that my results and how I perform are directly related to how I prepare, whether it’s in academics or sports. I like to see my progress and have satisfaction knowing that I’ve put in the work to make it happen.” Hurst, indeed, is seeing things happen. As a senior on the Raiders’ golf team, he has put a lot of work into his game and the results are evident. In Plant City’s opening match of the season on August 30, Hurst led the Raiders with a two-over-par 38 over nine holes. For Connor, the journey didn’t begin on the golf course. Initially, Connor played football and baseball, but as he got a little older, he wanted to do something different. His dad Mike introduced him to the game about seven years ago. Success followed quickly with a hole-in-one in 2006, making the Raiders’ high school team as a freshman, and a career low round of 37 in 2010.

Photo by Joe Bowles

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Like most athletes, Hurst’s has other interests, as well. He is a member of the school’s Academic Team, Math league, and Science Club. He also served on the Youth Alive leadership council, and was elected treasurer of the National Honor Society last year. Music is also a big part of his life. Hurst plays violin in the school orchestra and uses his skills on the violin, guitar, and bass guitar as a member of St. Clements Catholic Church, where Connor attends with his mom Karen, dad, and sister Kellyanne, a sophomore on the Raiders’ girls golf team.

Enjoying the Journey

Hurst’s golf game has improved with each season through hours of individual practice, working with golf pro Jim Garrison in Temple Terrace, and relying on Raiders’ coach Doug Jones for assistance. “What I like about Coach Jones is that he keeps us focused by creating competitions between us at practice, rather than just going through our drills. He also helps our inexperienced players with their confidence. It always helps to have someone like him who knows the game and can play it.” Life is exciting for Hurst right now, as he weighs his options for the future. He wants to enter the field of engineering. With a GPA of 4.0 (5.72 unweighted), Hurst should have no problem with college. He has narrowed his choices to USF, Florida, FSU, and Auburn. Whether golf is included in his college plans, he’s not really sure. “No matter what happens in my future. If I get a chance to play golf in college that will be great, but if I don’t, I always want to have golf as a part of my life. There is a dual aspect about golf. You can be real serious about it, or you can just go out and have fun. Either way, it’s relaxing. It keeps you calm.” Golf has done one more thing for Hurst. It has helped him adopt some principles for his life… core values such as integrity and that he learned in the First Tee program. Principles that will help him with his journey - a journey that promises to be as exciting as his destination.

SANCHEZ DERMATOLOGY WHAT EVERYBODY SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VISITING THE DERMATOLOGIST Often times when patients are sent to specialist physician practices, they will only see a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant, and may not even realize they did not see the actual doctor. At Sanchez Dermatology, every patient that comes through our doors will see Dr. Sanchez, not just a P.A. or N.P. There is valuable information specialist physicians learn during their extensive education that you and your insurance company are paying for. When you need a dermatologist, come see a dermatologist.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

sports » Baseball team of the month

Plant City Warriors: Bottom (L to R): Joey Morgan, Brent Fearnow, Jackson Knotts, Kevhawn Ragins, Brent Coton, Ethan Pues Middle (L to R): Jack Brosky, Hunter Smith, Logan Van Fossen, Jace Stines, Colin Shultz, Josh Herring Top (L to R): Coach Ben Smith, Manager James Swinson, Coach Danny Coton, (Max Ness- not pictured)

Plant City Warriors Focusing on Teamwork and Hard Work T

written By: Joe Bowles

he Plant City Warriors, one of the All Star teams representing Plant City Little League’s Machine Pitch division, just completed a successful summer competing against other eightyear-old clubs in a series of tournaments held during the month of June. Machine pitch baseball is exactly what the name implies. Between tee ball and minors, players are fed pitches from a machine. This strategy allows batters to see pitches that are consistently around the strike zone rather than taking pitches from players who may not be ready for that skill. Other than that and having 10 players on defense, it’s baseball with the same level of excitement. Just ask anyone who has ever witnessed the game. Warriors’ manager James Swinson has seen his share of games this summer, participating in four tournaments and

taking home a third place trophy, two seconds, and one first. But bringing this group to the championship ceremony wasn’t as simple as it may seem even with ample talent on the field.

“It is always a challenge to mold a team when you have 12 kids who have always played shortstop, second base, first base, or the other infield positions,” said Swinson as he reflected on the process. “Someone has to play outfield and at these tournaments, you have to have a good outfield. We started from scratch and had an open competition to make it fair for everyone. We also put kids in positions to where they helped the team the best. We focused on teamwork and hard work. We also had the battle of losing a few boys to vacations here and there.” Even with those challenges, who can argue with success? In the first tournament,

held at Eagle Lake the first weekend in June, the Warriors made it all the way to the championship game before falling 15-9, capturing second place. Lake Alfred was the site of the second tourney the following weekend. The Warriors made it to the semifinals before losing a heartbreaker in a slugfest 22-18. June 16-19 saw the Warriors compete in the Lakeland Highlands Tournament to end with a runner-up finish, losing to Eagle Lake in the final 15-9, despite having beaten them two days earlier. The summer’s last tournament was held in Auburndale the last weekend in June.

After dominating Sebring in game one, the Warriors put on a show against Fishhawk in round two. After losing the lead 10-8 in the top of the 6th and final inning, the Warriors put together four successive hits with Jace Stines driving in the winning run with a walk-off double. Ethan Pues also kept the Warriors in the game with three momentum changing defensive catches while playing rover. The Warriors came out swinging in the championship game winning 16-2 and capturing that elusive first place trophy. Defensive gems by Josh Herring and Jack Brosky kept opponents off the bases most of the game. For Swinson, “The best part was watching them progress each week. They really learned to play together as a team and towards the end, they became more consistent. All of the boys had fun and this was a great experience for them.”

Swinson, commenting on the team’s determination said, “We had one goal in mind: to get that elusive first place trophy. The boys were really focused for this one and we were really playing well as a team.” foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

THE PLANT CITY DOLPHINS

NEED YOUR HELP

Our Organization recently went through a theft involving Double A/C Units stolen and One left to be repaired. The Plant City Dolphins would like to thank Alan’s Air Conditioning for the quick response. And also Mid-State Construction and Rick Turner for helping us as well. Our Organization would appreciate any Community Support in this matter. This has been very costly for us. We are a Non-Proﬁt 501C3. We also use sponsorships for young athletes that cannot afford sign up fees and equipment

If you would like to help Our Organization out please contact

Buddy Bennett 813-478-3693 P.O.Box 993, Plant City Fl 33564

Thank You For Your Support!.

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

FABULOUS

Because you are incredibly you absolutely have to start a team for the

High Heel Hike for Autism!

Saturday October 8th, 2011 Downtown at the Train Depot is the place to be and be seen! Hundreds of Divas and Dudes will take to the streets in pure Hollywood style for the 3rd Annual Plant City High Heel Hike for Autism.

Pre Register and Fundraise at www.highheelhike.com Registration begins at 6pm, Hike will begin at 7pm. The team leader of the team with the most donations will take her stroll as

Queen, Teen Queen and Princess. Parade of Teams, Boas, Costumes and enough Red Carpet and Paparazzi to share! Prizes for Highest Heel, youngest in heels and more! Anybody who’s anybody wants to be seen at this Hollywood style strut! Proceeds benefit Pepin Academy.

Event Registration fee is $30 per participant. Receive your High Heel Hike T-Shirt

Register now and start online FUNdraising! Now we know Dudes you probably don’t want to wear High Heels, but we DO know you would like to be Spreading Awareness for Autism in your community.. Dudes in the Doghouse Carabba’s Thursday Oct. 6, 2011 5-8. Top Dude wins two nights at the Hard Rock Hotel

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

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extra » senior of the month

Shelby Johnson senior of the month Written By: Jeremy Minaya

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Shelby was a member of the track team for two years and has been on the golf team for all four. Since her freshman year, Johnson has made it to golf Districts and Regionals and is also Hillsborough All Conference for golf. Shelby and “Las Chicas” made it all the way to state last year. This year, the golf team is expected to do very well at the state level.

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helby Johnson, a senior at Plant City High School, is a true example of an all-around student. From academics to sports, to even music, Johnson is an outstanding leader in her community.

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Currently ranked third in her class with a 6.29 GPA, Johnson is a dedicated academic. She has earned Principal’s Honor Roll since her freshman year and due to her excellence in academics, Shelby has been awarded the golf scholar athlete award both her sophomore and junior year. Johnson has also joined academic clubs to showcase her knowledge. These clubs include National Honor Society, the Science Club, and the Academic team. As senior captain of the academic team, Shelby leads the team of scholars in several competitions throughout the year.

Along with being a part of the Plant City Orchestra since her freshman year, Shelby has also been an outstanding orchestra student, recognized as most talented viola, and in All-County Orchestra all four years. She has earned Solo, Ensemble, and Music Performance Assessment (MPAs) superior ratings. Johnson performed as a Junior Philharmonic member in the Tampa Bay Orchestra last year. Due to her hard work, Shelby has received many honors. She was the Plant City nominee for both Girls State and the Schwartzkopf Award. She was also chosen to go to the Rotary Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders (S4TL) and was awarded with the Athena Society “Young Women of Promise,” which recognizes 10 young women who convey future potential through outstanding leadership and community service. Next year, Johnson will pursue a degree in either biomedical engineering or medicine at Vanderbilt or the University of Florida. “I would love the opportunity to help millions of patients receive the benefit of technology in medicine,” explained Shelby.

Since her sophomore year Johnson has been an active member of Best Buddies and has participated in Special Olympics sports such as volleyball and basketball. Other clubs Shelby has been involved with are Youth Alive, Keyettes (secretary and No matter the path Shelby decides to VP), and Key Club. follow, she will be on the fast track to success.

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extra » senior of the month

Jeremy Minaya senior of the month community which gives so much to its people. Throughout the year Interact will help with clean-ups, car washes, Relay for Life, and various Rotary projects. As a member of Student Council since his freshman year, Jeremy has dedicated himself to improving PCHS. From pep rallies to Relay for Life, Student Council ensures the student body gets involved in school activities. Through Student Council, Minaya was given the opportunity to volunteer as a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor to a student at Walden Lake Elementary and also as a mentor at PCHS to encourage improvement in grades. As Jr. VP of Student Council last year, Jeremy planned and executed the airing high grades with high homecoming dance, “When in Rome”. aspirations, Jeremy Minaya has driven This job requires dedication, organization, himself to be a leader in both his and strong leadership. Of this experience, school and in his community. Throughout he shared, “Through the experience of high school, Minaya has set himself apart being the chairman of such a significant from other students by not just doing what dance, I have learned valuable skills is required, but by raising the bar of what a imperative to being a successful leader.” model student is. Along with helping facilitate the dance, Jeremy’s peers selected him onto junior Academics are significant to Minaya. homecoming court. He is currently ranked ninth in his class with a 5.82 GPA, which places him in Minaya is dedicated to giving back to the the top 2% of Plant City High School community. He has volunteered to help seniors. To also get a head start in college, with various Special Olympics sports, Minaya has taken various courses at such as volleyball and bocce ball. Minaya Hillsborough Community College in the has also volunteered at the Planteen dual enrollment program. Recreation Center and participated in various service projects through clubs as Just like any other month, Jeremy is busy well. All together, Minaya has accumulated with the various activities held by all the more than 250 hours of community extracurricular programs in which he’s service. involved. Minaya serves as president of Interact Club and Inter Club Council, Minaya’s newest responsibility as an vice-president of student council and of intern at FOCUS Magazine involves Environmental Club, recording secretary covering the senior of the month spreads of National Honor Society, treasurer throughout the school year. He said, “As of Raider Buddies, and secretary of his a fellow senior, I am elated to have the senior class. He is involved in the Student privilege of showcasing my peers and their Government Association, Life is Good achievements in our local newspaper.” Club, Action Team, and the Science Club as well. Jeremy is also a lector at St. In upcoming years Minaya plans to attend Clement Catholic Church. the University of Florida to major in either pre-medicine or pre-law. No matter which Interact Club, sponsored by the Rotary path Jeremy chooses, his academic drive Club, is a service club at PCHS that not and leadership abilities should lead to great only aims to preserve the environment, things for him in the future. but also the community. As club president this year, Jeremy plans to give back to the

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

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extra » al reuchel saw generation upon generation of revenge exacted upon us for things none of us even remember or understand. Revenge is an excuse, a license to act with little to no impunity because “they had it coming.” We learned that there is a religious movement that believes their God-given directive is to kill us… period. There is no conversation, no middle ground, no compromise, and no exceptions to their rule. If we don’t convert we are to be put to death. Radical Islam is real and it is growing. Even sensible Muslims who condemn these radicals can’t slow its march to madness. We learned that we can’t let our guard down. We must always be alert and vigilant in protecting our shores. National security isn’t just something they talk about in the halls of Congress, it is something that must become part of our daily lives as we watch and listen to what’s happening around us and actively take part in reporting things that don’t seem right. And, maybe the most important lesson we’ve learned since that horrific day. As a nation we are the most compassionate, the most giving, the most sacrificial, most resilient people in the world. It’s in our DNA as Americans. We climb up into the burning inferno. We climb up to our destiny with faith our God has a better plan.

Lessons from 9/11 W e all know where we were and what we were doing on the day more than 10 years ago. I was on the air delivering the news when it happened and stayed glued to my anchor chair well into the evening hours.

It was the day the towers fell, the day terrorism finally reached our shores in a way we hadn’t seen since World War II. It was also the day we learned a number of very difficult lessons that will likely haunt us into the future.

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

We joined together even before the dust settled and determined that this event would not dim the light of democracy. Right or wrong we sacrificed over 5-thousand of our nations best and brightest… even spending ourselves into a sea of debt to try and make it right.

Written By: Al Reuchel

We learned that life is not fair. So many things happen to us that we can’t control and affect the good, the bad, and the indifferent the same. Why some people were sick that day or missed a train or were late for work or missed a flight that saved their lives is a mystery. Fairness is one of those inborn human characteristics that seem to propel us forward through difficulty as long as we can find someone or something to blame. When something is “just not right” based

on our morals and values it is unsettling and throws us off balance. Death comes on its own schedule and we can neither control it nor, as in the case with terror attacks, predict when and where it will strike. It isn’t fair. We learned that revenge is the most destructive motive in the universe. Forget all those stupid Hollywood movies that glorify the heroes getting their pound of flesh from the bad guys. It may feel good for a few fleeting moments but one man’s justice is another’s injustice. We

Lots of what has happened after the attacks doesn’t make sense. Bad intelligence, IED’s nearly impossible to detect, billions of dollars of aid lost or unaccounted for, America still hated even as we free millions from tyranny and death. Yet, old glory waves on. The lives lost in ignorance joining a chorus of generations that believed there is no greater nation on earth than the United States of America. God Bless America! God Bless the heroes of 9/11. We will never forget!

TH BIRTHDAY 0 6 Y P P A H

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302 E. Calhoun St. • Plant City, FL 33566 813-754-8697 | 813-754-6300 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

extra » derek maul relationships and a great life. But I also can’t say enough about how important it is to understand what makes a great relationship. Too many people miss out because they have no idea what a relationship either can or should be, or they abandon it without making any substantive effort, or they stay in the marriage but fail to fully invest in one another because: • They’ve been told that the process should be easy; • Or they’ve been led to believe they should get it right the first time; • Or they never understood that “faithfulness” is about keeping all of the vows, not just the one about who you sleep with; • Or they buy in to shallow definitions of love that are heavy on feelings, or infatuation, or control, or romance, or sex… but light on the things that count, such as commitment, and honor, and honest struggle, and kindness….

Kindness:

And I really, really, really can’t say enough about kindness. I have seen the lack of kindness kill marriages beyond repair. And I’ve seen consistent, beautifully applied, long-term kindness rescue bad relationships from the brink.

Marriage: E

very summer my wife and I celebrate another wedding anniversary. I’ve written about this before, and I’ll write about it again. And I always talk about our relationship with enthusiasm because the celebration never gets old. 2011 marks 32 years since we launched this great adventure together. Step aside, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure; move over, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride; take a back seat, The Incredible Journey. Our story is more epic by far. This time I’m writing from the perspective of “The Life-Charged Life.” It’s a concept I’ve been developing along with my latest book and, in my experience, I’d have to say

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

In the End, it’s All About Kindness Written By: derek maul

that this “Life-Charged Life” gains a lot free. Instead it has been – and continues of its energy, its meaning and its vibrancy to be – a wonderful, difficult, passionate, from the fact that I’m married to Rebekah. challenging, rich, meaningful, beautiful, life-charged adventure. Of course, we had no idea what the next three-plus decades would look like when I referenced some movies in the first we walked out of the church together paragraph. Here are some more: The that day in 1979. But we did know that journey so far has been It’s A Wonderful we were committed to taking the journey Life, with occasional scenes from in unison. Honoring that decision for Schoolhouse Rock, The War of the faithfulness has been pivotal in so many Worlds, The Incredibles, and sometimes ways. a little Harry Potter thrown in for good measure.

All adventure, all the time:

But saying we have a “life-charged” marriage is not the same as saying that the past 32 years have been easy, comfortable, smooth sailing or trouble-

Relationships are the key to happiness:

I really can’t say enough about the connection between great, well-cared for

Here’s a big heads-up for all those so-called “spiritual” people out there, especially the ones who like to say that God is on their side when it comes to their relationships. If Jesus really does reside in your heart, then there are some “evidences” you need to be aware of – they’re listed in Galatians 5: The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This is the heart of 32 years together! Galatians 5:22 in the context of ongoing commitment, enduring faithfulness, and honest struggle. Easy? Not on your life! How about wonderful, worthwhile, lifecharged, and better for the 32-years of trying? You bet!

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september 2011 focusplantcity.com

extra » Auto Review

Honda HybridCR-ZStill Needs to Tries to Fill the Shoes of the CRX Grow a Little I submitted By: Brian West

n 1985, Hondas were still a relatively “foreign” car to buyers in the U.S. But that same year, Honda introduced the CRX - a 2-seater sports car that catapulted Honda’s road recognition. Prior to this, Hondas were just small foreign cars that were good on gas, not much more. The CRX was the first sporty attempt for the brand, and it worked. The exterior design was eyecatching with its hatchback rear end seemingly “cut off.” It wasn’t necessarily sexy, but once you got behind the wheel, especially with the manual 5-speed transmission, the driver was in for a real treat: FUN DRIVING!

In 2010, Honda introduced the CR-Z hybrid as the second coming of the CRX. It is recognizably the same car, but with 25 years of evolutionary design. The exterior is attractive. It’s sleek, and the same features that made the CRX a hit are there with the CR-Z; just think 21st century. The rear end is still cut off, and the glass in the rear end is still high enough that it serves as the portal for viewing through those behind you in the rear view mirror. Unfortunately, that’s about where the comparison ends. It’s over a foot longer than the CRX and almost 1,000 pounds heavier. The CR-Z is a hybrid, and just doesn’t deliver the oomph that the CRX did.

The CR-Z, hybrid or not, should be able to launch the driver down the highway like a kid driving a go-kart for the first time with parents screaming in the background, “Let off the gas! Hit the brake!” The CR-Z just needs a few more horses under the hood. A slight tweak and this car could be a LOT more fun. However, there are three driving modes; normal, hybrid and sport. If your only goal is to conserve fuel, select hybrid and break the other two mode buttons off. Just be prepared for lots of disgruntled drivers upset that they can’t get around you quickly enough. Think slow; little old lady with one both feet in the grave just needing an ever so slight nudge to

finish her off kind of slow. Normal is of course, normal. But once you select the sport mode, now we see glimpses of the CRX. It handles tight and screams at you to press the pedal to the floor. It would be really easy to get speeding tickets in this car. Sitting so low to the ground, you quickly lose your frame of reference for speed. On the interior, the systems are visually more exciting to the eye. Just about every tool on the interior is illuminated. The use of blue lighting for the speedometer makes the dashboard a slight bit uncomfortable to the eye. The views are a little better and the manual stick shift is perfect. All in all, the CR-Z was fun to drive in the sport mode, and makes for a great hybrid – rated at 35/39mpg. If you’re interested in the CR-Z, take one for a test drive and play with the mode controls before you make your decision.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

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entertainment » dining profile

johnson barbeque

Johnson Barbeque J Written By: John Ross

acob of Johnson Barbeque is confident that the Johnson family’s barbeque recipes, after being refined for 50 years, are about as delicious as they are going to get. “We believe we’ve maxed out with how good we can make our barbeque,” he said plainly, with pride for the family’s tradition of preparing great food. Now, Johnson Barbeque is expanding the menu to appeal to more people. They hope to entice those locals who are out and about in beautiful Plant City looking for a bite to eat, yet who aren’t particularly in the mood for barbeque.

So, what’s new at Johnson Barbeque? Jacob, our personable kitchen manager of seven years, brought Potato Skins for our appetizer and those bad boys were piled high with shredded brisket meat that had been slow roasting for 14 hours. Talk about getting straight to the meat and potatoes - Am I right? Am I right? With Cheddar cheese and bacon sprinkled generously over the top, they threatened to fill us up before we even got to the restaurant’s new steak dish lineup. For our first entrée, Jacob served the restaurant’s new 14-ounce Ribeye. Cut to approximately an inch thick, it looked

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

Non-BBQ Lovers are Welcome, Too

great as it covered half of the plate. There was barely enough room for the oversized loaded baked potato and brown sugarsprinkled, buttered roll. A thin layer of fat bordered the steak, which was cut only earlier that day. Jacob grilled it just long enough to let the marbled fat melt and the result was an ultra-tender, tasty piece of meat. One wouldn’t touch this steak with sauce of any kind. Diners should just let the natural flavors of the ribeye do all the work and enjoy it between bites of buttered baked potato and the hot, sweet dinner roll. The fish tacos are an ambitious and tasty new feature. Next to some fresh tortillas, we were brought a platter of guacamole with roasted corn, sour cream, lettuce, cheddar-jack cheese, homemade pico de gallo, fire-grilled onions, and our choice of meat (chopped beef brisket, grilled grouper, grilled chicken, and sirloin steak). Jacob taught us about Free Taco Tuesdays: Buy a taco, get a taco free. “You can eat one and get one to go if you want,” he said. The new steak entrees at Johnson Barbeque are served after 5 p.m. everyday. Kids (11 and under) eat free every Monday and Wednesday also after 5 p.m., so we recommend you load the kids up on either of those days and take them out for the steak and tacos on the cheap.

1407 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-0009 Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

» dining guide

Find deals online aT mYFocuscouPons.com

sPecial adverTisemenT

asian cHen cHinese buFFeT

resh specialties, top chefs, and great prices are what you can expect at The Asian Chen Restaurant located in the Thonotosassa Publix shopping area. Find out why customers are raving about this new fine dining establishment. Monday-Thursday 10:30am-10pm. FridaySaturday 10:30am-11pm: Sunday 11:30am-10pm. Seniors receive a complimentary beverage with their meal and party trays are available. LUNCH $ 5.75 • DINNER $6.95 • SENIORS GET FREE DRINK DINNING ORDER FROM MENU SALAD BAR FOR FREE.

2609 THonoTosassa rd. PlanT ciTY, Fl 33563 813-757-9888

cHili’s

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

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 bread, 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

mi casa

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 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

» dining guide

Find deals online aT mYFocuscouPons.com

sPecial adverTisemenT

olde Town PiZZeria

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

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, especially if you’re looking for seafood with their catfish, stuffed crab, buttered shrimp and much, much, more.

1914 james l redman ParkwaY PlanT ciTY, Fl 33563 813-754-4488

THe red rose dining room

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

ZaxbY’s

axby’s offers its guests indescribably good prepared-at-order Chicken Fingerz, Jumbo Buffalo Wings, sandwiches, Zalads, Zappetizers and milkshakes along with a variety of sauces.

Zaxby’s also offers Party Platterz and catering which are perfect for any size event. Visit Zaxby’s location in Plant City at 2901 1/2 James Redman Pkwy. to find out for yourself how delicious and flavorful Zaxby’s is.

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

2901 1/2 james redman PkwY. PlanT ciTY, Fl 33564 (813) 752-1971 • www.zaxbys.com

CCC057919 CBC059203

PLANT CITY’S BEST SINCE 1985

ROOFING • HOME REMODELING NEW ROOFS RE-ROOFS ROOF REPAIRS

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SUPERIOR QUALITY AT COMPETITIVE PRICES

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FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FREE ESTIMATES WWW.CFCHINC.COM

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SUPERIOR QUALITY POOLS AT COMPETITIVE PRICES

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All you need to do NEW POOLS POOL REMODELING POOL REPAIRS WEEKLY POOL SERVICE NEW EQUIPMENT & REPAIRS SOLAR SYSTEMS PORTABLE SPA & HOT TUB REPAIR

813-986-9460

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FREE ESTIMATES WWW.TRUEBLUEPOOLSANDSPAS.COM

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

(813) 707-9303

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL

2010 FOCUS

VOTED BEST MILKSHAKE

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Any Cone

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City Expires 10-15-11 (813) 707-9303

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Any Milkshake

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City Expires 10-15-11 (813) 707-9303

Were not just Pizza, Come try our Hambugers and Chicken and Steak too! Lunch and Dinner specials every day! and View our Printable Menu on Abcpizza.com

813-752-5146

114 North Alexander Street â&#x20AC;˘ Plant City, Fl. 33563 BRING THIS AD IN AND RECEIVE 15% OFF

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

SAY HELLO TO THE NEWEST POWER CONFERENCE.

This football season is better than ever! With so many Zaxby’s Party Platterz™ to choose from, you’ll taste victory before your team hits the field! Try any of these conference favorites like the Chicken Fingerz Platter, the Cookie Platter, the Chicken Salad Nibblerz Platter or even the Zalad Platter. With a lineup this good, your appetite will be satisfied even if the game goes into overtime. ®

2901 1/2 James Redman Pkwy.

•

Plant City

•

813.752.1971

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

10 #

“Taking care of yourself has never felt better”

reasons you need massage

TREATS MIGRAINES Massage has been proven to be effective in the treatment of migraines. Patients reported a decrease in the occurance of migraines, sleep disturbances, and distress symptoms. Call today if you or someone you love suffers from migraines.

813-477-7978

Christina “Nikki” Jackson MM15607 • MA23235

110 W. REYNOLDS ST., #217 • PLANT CITY, FL

USED AUTO & RV PARTS “U-PULL” or “WE PULL”

*Bring this ad and receive free yard entry*

LOETSCHER AUTO PARTS, LLC

( new ownership) We Buy Wrecked or Damaged Motor Homes, Trucks, & Junk Cars

813-752-3770

WWW.LOETSCHERAUTO.COM 4306 HWY 574 W.Plant City

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

entertainment » red rose “We come every week to hear Free Time. We have followed them from the start and will continue to wherever they go.” through 2012. The1861 Ball (A Tribute to Gone with the Wind) on October 1 will provide opportunities to meet original cast members Mickey Kuhn, (Beau Wilkes) and Patrick Curtis, (Baby Beau). The 97th Regimental String Band will provide music. Costumes are welcome and encouraged. Doors open at 6:30 with dinner at 7:00, and the ballroom events begin at 8:00 p.m.

Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

A Delightful Evening W ith so many different varieties of entertainment at the Red Rose Dining Room, it’s hard to pick one over another, but this particular evening was spent dining under the stars. Plush seating and candlelight set the atmosphere for a romantic evening where couples took strolls out to the dance floor to sway to the sounds of smooth jazz, played by the band Free Time, a weekly performer here at the Red Rose Dining Room. Harmony and tranquility at its finest coupled with five-star dining and you have a night to remember. How long has it been since you had a romantic night out? Regular patrons of the Red Rose Dining Room, Mary Fariday and Dyas Gregg said, “We come every week to hear Free Time. We have followed them from the start and will continue to wherever they go.” It’s easy to relax and unwind at the Red Rose Dining Room when, from the moment you walk in, everything is done for you. On this night the seafood and prime rib buffet meant no menus to search

filled with Smooth Jazz written by: Keri Estridge

over or decisions to make. It’s a pleasant way to simply enjoy the delectable dishes and company of those around you, which after all is what fine dining is all about.

The 1861 Ball is just one of many upcoming events at the Red Rose Inn. For a complete schedule, visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com or call 813752-3141 for reservations. Come and experience five-star dining and live entertainment that takes you away from the ordinary into the extraordinary.

The Red Rose Dining Room has something for everyone. The Italian inspired menu includes, steak, chicken, veal and seafood. The seafood and prime rib buffet is served Tuesday nights and on Wednesdays it’s southern style. On Friday and Saturday nights, guests can dine and are welcome to stay and experience the Las Vegas style entertainment, including the house band Destiny, from 8:00-10:00 p.m. Singles gather on Thursday nights and many folks enjoy the step-by-step dance lessons on Mondays. The marvelous Sunday Champagne Brunch includes complimentary mimosas, prime rib and Georgia peach glazed ham, which is served also with then finished sweet potato casserole, crisp salad creations, and desserts that look almost too good to eat. No matter what type of entertainment you enjoy, you’ll find it here at the Red Rose with its full schedule of events

Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

FAMILY KARATE CENTER .com (813) 752-9800

602. S. Collins St.,

Plant City, FL 33563

(on the corner of Alabama St. and Collins St.)

Member of the Christian Karate Association

BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL!

Classes for Adults, Teens, and Children.

2 Months for $99

Monday Thru Thursday 5:00pm-9:00pm Classes for age 4 years old and up Great Discounts for families!

www.PlantCityFamilyKarate.com

REMCO

Locally Owned and Operated Since 1975

TRANSMISSIONS

2303 JIM REDMAN PKWY, PLANT CITY, FL

Specializing in the servicing and repair of automatic and standard transmissions.

CHANGING PLANT CITYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OIL SINCE 1988

We also perform expert repairs on your vehicle such as: brakes, ac, front end, oil leaks and many other repairs.

$ Come see Chris and he will address any of your automotive needs.

813-752-5347 5% discount with this ad

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OFF FULL

SERVICE OIL CHANGE

2303 Jim Redman Pkwy, Plant City, FL

813-752-8226

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

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entertainment » artist of the month

Creating Fine Art Photography Using the Art of Lighting, Time, and Distance written By: Heather Davis

hrough the art of photography there is not much over the past 40 years that Claud Bardin has not explored.

Photography came to Claud by chance. While enlisted in the U.S. Army, Claud won a camera in a craps game. He picked up the camera and began to shoot photos and has not stopped since. Claud’s family, the Wheelers, included some of Plant City’s founding members. After the Plant City native’s exposure to photography in the military, he graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts, concentrating on Photography. For Claud photography was not a passing fancy or hobby. It’s been a serious occupation that has sustained him and his family throughout his life. For many years Claud and Barbara, his wife of 35 years, traveled the art circuit setting up in various art shows throughout the state. Through this exposure, Claud was very successful in winning awards and acclaim, as well as in creating a following of people who sought out his photography

for purchase. Eventually he opened his own studio where he displayed his work, took personal clients, taught photography classes and did photo restoration. He also made a successful business photographing weddings and personal portraits. When one views examples of Claud’s work, it is evident how at ease he was able to make his clients feel. As Claud eloquently stated, “You can see it in their eyes; through the eyes you can see the soul.” Claud also enjoys abstract photography and more recently has been concentrating on landscapes and nature. He and Barbara traveled to the four corners (Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona) to visit the National Parks and photograph all they saw. On this trip Claud transitioned cameras from film to digital. Part of the transition also involved donating his dark room equipment to Plant City High School. He teaches that lighting, time, and distance are keys to good photography. It is evident in Claud Bardin’s work that this artist has mastered all three.

SAVINGS TO GO - AS SIMPLE AS 1 -2-3! WWW.GROCERIESANDSAVINGSTOGO.COM OR CALL CINDY 813-716-1851 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR A SCHEDULE OF UPCOMING WORKSHOPS AND TO REGISTER FOR A WORKSHOP!

We Bring the Savings to WORKSHOP 2 WORKSHOP 1

FUNdamentals of Coupons

Teaches basic techniques for obtaining and organizing coupons, along with speciﬁc store policies in order to save 50% or more on your weekly bill, including baby care, pet care and household items!

FUNdamentals

of Store Incentives

Reviews the incentive plans and programs available at store which will enable you to get items at a rock bottom price, or even free!

september 2011 focusplantcity.com

WORKSHOP 3

FUNdamentals of Stockpiling

An advanced workshop explaining the sales cycles on items and how to create an inventory enabling you to never have to pay full price for an item!

We bring the savings to you! Host a private home workshop and have a great time with your friends while learning how to save money on your grocery bill! Visit our website at www.groceriesandsavingstogo.com!

*LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AND VISIT OUR BLOG FOR DAILY WAYS TO SAVE MONEY!

102

You!

We Will Make Your Home Sparkle! Locally Owned and Operated

Sa me Great Service, Sa me Great Cleaners,

Residential & Commercial Cleaning Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Monthly Quality, Dependable Service

Everytime!

Fine Touch Cleaning 813-300-4763 • 813-757-0140

NEW SERVICE OFFERED

Let us make your move less stressful. In addition to our cleaning service we now offer packing your home for a move. You provide boxes, etc., we pack your home, the movers do the rest.

Prices are Based on Time that is Needed.

We Offer One Time Cleaning • Licensed - Insured - Bonded • References Available Upon Request foCUS Magazine Plant City september 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

Auditioning Now

» Vocalists for the upcoming musical review “Looking Back: Tin Pan Alley” Show scheduled for October 21-22 in Plant City Age is not a factor, but enthusiasm and reliability are critical. To schedule an audition, contact Al Cohen 813-707-0788

Saturday, September 17th

» Strawberry Classic Car Show 4pm to 9pm Registration is free. Opens at 3p.m. 1986 and older cars and trucks welcome. Downtown Plant City’s McCall Park. For more information call 813-754-3707 » Art Show and Sale 9:00am to 3:00pm Local Artists offer original paintings for sale Southern Hospitality parking lot For more information, contact Beverly Farley 863-660-5322

Saturday and Sunday, September 17th - 18th

» Fundraising Softball Tournament Starts 8:00am both days Co-ed tournament to help finance the Caylee Marie Memorial Walkway Randy L. Larson Softball Field 1500 S. Park Rd. Contact Anthony Abramson 813-325-7933

Tuesday, September 20th

» Plant City Meditation Group 4:30 to 6:30pm Special 2-hour Yoga and Meditation led by Jennifer For more information, contact Jean Hehn 813763-1833

wednesday, September 21st » The Catering Company & Café Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Food, Entertainment and more 115 East Reynolds Street Plant City, Florida 33563 Office (813) 707-1447 Fax (813) 707-1440

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Thursday, September 22nd

» Diamonds and Denim Gala 7:00pm Annual benefit for the South Florida Baptist Hospital features live music, dancing, and a catered dinner Expo Hall on the Strawberry Festival Grounds Tickets $50 advance registration For more information call 813-757-8478

Saturday, September 24th

Tickets $40 advance For more information, contact Hal Brewer 813752-4949

Saturday, October 1st

» 1861 Ball (Tribute to Gone With the Wind) Doors open 6:30pm, Dinner 7:00, 1861 Ball 8:00 Come meet original cast members and music from the movie. Period costumes welcome, but not required. Red Rose Ballroom, 2011 N Wheeler St. For more information call 813-752-3141 » The Sunshine State Music Festival 1:00pm Country, Folk, Old-Time, Vintage Jazz, Bluegrass, Contra Dance, and Clogging. 1914 Plant City High School Community Center 605 N. Collins St. 13&up $15, Kids 6-13 $5 under 6 free For more information contact the East Hillsborough Historical Society 813-757-9226

» Garden Fest Starting at 9:00am Annual show sponsored by the Plant City » Bike Fest Garden Club 5:00 to 9:00pm Downtown Plant City’s McCall Park and Depot held every 1st Saturday in Historic Downtown Plant City. Open to the public, no admission. For more information call 813-754-3707 » Kickoff for Relay for Life of Plant City » East Hillsborough Art Guild (EHAG). 6:00 to 7:00pm 10a.m. to 3p.m Come Celebrate last year’s success and get pumped for the 2012 Plant City Relay for Life. Annual Art-In-The-Park Art Show Walden Lake Park Plant City First Baptist Church There will be many artist booths as well as food 503 North Palmer St. & drinks & a butterfly exhibit Contact: kindell.gilmore@sdhc.k12.fl.us Admission is FREE For more information: Colleen Justin- Walden Lake Art & Frame (813) 752-7460 » Plant City Meditation Group 5:30 to 6:30pm Crystal Bowls Meditation led by Robin For more information, contact Jean Hehn 813» The Florida Opry Returns Doors open at 5:00, show starts at 6:00pm 763-1833 Family-friendly show featuring country, gospel, and comedy 1914 Plant City High School Community Center 605 N. Collins St. » Dave Ramsey “EntreLeadership’ Reserve seating $12 in advance, General 9:30am to 5:00pm Learn to grow your business and lead your team admission $10 at the door Contact: the East Hillsborough Historical from a biblical perspective Society 813-757-9226 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd. » Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat $39 per person at the door Writing workshops and training Contact: Rob Cassata 813-752-4591 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Cedarkirk Conference Center 1920 Streetman Drive, Lithia Cost is $95 Contact: Ruth Ellinger 813-624-3312 » Friends Mystery Dinner Theater 6:30pm “I Wed Three Wives” Join the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library for dinner, drinks, dessert, and performance. Florida National Guard Armory, Airport Rd.

Monday, September 26th

Tuesday, September 27th

Saturday, October 8th

Friday, September 30th

Friday & Saturday, September 30th & October 1st

Saturday, October 15th

» Johnny Alston’s Motown Revue and PJ Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds Dinner 5pm Show starts 7:30pm Red Rose Inn 2011 N Wheeler St. For more information call 813-752-3141 » Zumba 4A Cause 9:30 to 11:30am Plan to ditch your normal workout and join the party for a great cause! Plant City Church of God Fellowship Hall 2103 Mud Lake Rd. Pre-Registration is $15, $20 at the door Contact” Polly Herrin 813-752-4591

ONGOING EVENTS: Red Rose Inn and Suites Ongoing Events: Red Rose Inn & Suites - Every Monday Learn to Dance with Susan 7 to 9 PM. Learn an easy, fun and fast method to start dancing with any partner on any dance floor. No partner needed. Call 863-604-5060 (small fee) 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 from 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 cuer’s on the schedule. Visit our website: www. strawberrysquaredancing.com or call the office: 813-752 0491 for dates and times.

Sundays:

A new church is now meeting at the Red Rose Inn Ballroom on Sundays at 10am and 6pm. Join the Sanctuary of Praise each week to check out the exciting services! If you are tired of the same old ways, the same tired, boring and sleepy church services then come visit this new nondemoninational church. For questions, visit www.thesanctuaryofpraise.webs.com or call Pastor Joe C. Kelley at 813-943-2620. You may also email questions to thesanctuaryofpraise@ymail.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2011

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entertainment » crossword A G U E

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Title Waves

See the all new

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title waves created By: Calvin R. and JackieTITLE Mathews ACROSS 1. Impoverished 5. Fools 9. Small amount 12. Small piece of paper 16. Swiss river 17. Muse of poetry 19. Opera solo 20. Civil War general George __ 21. Heavenly amusement? 24. Walkway 25. Enormity 26. Cube root of 27 27. Tree-trimming stuff 28. Barn topper 29. New parents’ choices 30. S, M or L 31. Inventor’s right 34. Sinful 35. Delight 36. Cal. page 39. Story about St. Augustine and St. Paul? 43. Capitol topper 44. Oz visitor 45. Acquired 46. First to fall 47. Twist, for one 48. Ginger cookie 49. Blushing A? 54. TV’s “__, Dear” 55. “Daily Planet” reporter Lane 56. City in Florida 57. Mistreats 58. Pt. of speech 59. Like a bumpy road 60. Cross the pool 61. Like a clock with hands 64. Spanish word for earnest or solemn 65. Fife resident 66. Custard ingredient 69. Warm-pawed tabby? 72. __ Simon 73. Playwright Clifford 74. Happy __ clam 75. Perfume bottle word 76. Land east of Russia 77. Estuaries 78. From England to Plymouth Rock? 84. GI’s destination in the ’70s 85. Compassion 86. “Dies __”; Requiem Mass hymn

87. 88. 89. 90. 91. 94. 95. 99. 100. 102. 103. 104. 105. 106. 107. 108. 109.

WAVES

by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews

Public vehicles Drink served warm Vote into office To boot Caroline’s mom Amphitheater Lack of effervescence Over “So long, upper limbs!”? Lead Tumor Humiliation Overfill Elected officials: abbr. Common verb “The __ the limit!” Tests used to diagnose epilepsy, for short

14. 15. 18. 19. 20. 22. 23. 27. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 35. 36. 37. 38. 40. 41. 42. 43. 47. 49. 50. 51.

DOWN 1. Byway 2. Hawaiian island 3. Eugene’s location: abbr. 4. Build anew, as a neighborhood 5. __ ten; 9:53 6. Go upward 7. Spiders 8. Holy mlle. 9. Kilmer’s masterpiece 10. Adjutant 11. Dawn to dusk 12. Sight from the Eiffel Tower 13. Damsel 1

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Just sitting there 62. Gymnast Comaneci Strip 63. “The __”; George Eighth, in Spain Peppard sitcom City in India 64. Not __; less than Corn cunning Bananas 65. Bather’s bar Of an electrical 66. Lets up resistance unit 67. Pretext Connections 68. Tumbler, e.g. Gingrich’s namesakes 70. Poorest nation in the Winter forecast Americas Pushover 71. Change the alarm Make amends 72. Pastor’s home Casual farewells 78. Explorer Zebulon __ hoot; care 79. Vexing people Helvetica & Palatino 80. Dunne or Ryan Sajak or Trebek 81. Colorful parrots Bar orders 82. Devotees attached DE followers to a religious order Digits 83. Oomph Kojak’s portrayer 85. Patriot Thomas __ Bit of numerical info 88. Slides while braking Left-hand ledger entry 89. Wipe away Island nation east of Fiji 90. TV’s “__ Children” Judge’s milieu 91. Coughing spells Part of the play where 92. Malarial fever Juliet is on her balcony 93. First murderer and Romeo is below 94. Great distance Tell the misdeeds of 95. Opposition __ gravity; Newton’s find 96. __ Stanley Gardner Diving birds 97. Self-satisfied Stroke causes, often 98. Fast jets, for short Put a new label on 100. Drs.’ org. Use SOS 101. Syllables from the Future oak hard of hearing

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