FOCUS Plant City 11-04 by Floyd Publications

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APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Vol. 11 Issue 4 • April 2012

16-40 LOCAL

www.focusplantcity.com

ON THE COVER

Springtime means Relay for Life and Little Miss Plant City. Among this month’s stories you’ll also read about Pastor Don Mason’s retirement, Jarrett Scott Ford’s 100th Anniversary and the annual Friends of Scouting dinner honoring five new Eagle Scouts and Fred Johnson as Distinguished Citizen of the Year.

45-51 FEATURE

Learn about the new 60,000 square foot red brick home of the 13th Judicial Circuit and meet Judy Dominguez, Director of Branch Operations for the Clerk of the Circuit Court, a woman who is very proud of her staff and the services they provide to citizens of eastern Hillsborough County.

53-55 SPOTLIGHT

Chris Tancredo and his capable staff at Tancredo Law Firm are experts when it comes to legal issues involving financial difficulties such as foreclosure and bankruptcy. They can offer hope, so call now.

59 BUSINESS PROFILE

The Tooth Caboose is a Plant City landmark and home to three dental partners who thoroughly enjoy their careers because building great smiles is such rewarding work.

101 DINING PROFILE

Checkers has something for everyone and for prices everyone can afford. Fast service, tasty food and money saved - be sure to try something new and soon.

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

CHRIS TANCREDO TANCREDO LAW FIRM

61 - FINANCE COLUMN 64 - HOME GUIDE 66 - REAL ESTATE 68 - WALDEN LAKE COLUMN 70 - MORTGAGE COLUMN 74 - SPORTS 78 - ATHLETE OF THE MONTH 80 - BASEBALL TEAM OF THE MONTH 88 - AL REUCHEL COLUMN

90 - DEREK MAUL 94 - ARTIST OF THE MONTH 96 - AUTO REVIEW 102 - DINING GUIDE 104 - RED ROSE ENTERTAINMENT 106 - CLASSIFIEDS 108 - EVENT CALENDAR 109 - CROSSWORD

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APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Children do and say the darndest things. They also keep us on our toes. DeDe and I were totally caught off guard recently when our youngest son Zy, who will have his 5th birthday this month, surprised us with this invitation: “Mom, Dad come see my clean room.”

See why everyone is driving to Bartow to buy a car from TOM EDWARDS.

So we did and we were blown away. Zy had organized his toys, his clothes, his closet - it looked like he had hired professionals to do a room makeover. Needless to say, we showered him with encouraging compliments and we’re thinking he could open a business already. Then a week later, he did it again - caught us off guard at the grocery store while we were shopping for the Floyd food bank and snack pantry. Zy asked Dede, “Mom, how much is all this going to cost? Are you sure we can afford it? Since when did 4-year-olds start caring about the price of food? We answered his questions, which prompted a few of our own, such as, “What about those who can’t afford food?” and “Do we really need everything we buy?” These were teachable moments in the Floyd household, and we’re hoping for many more.

As you watch daily for teachable moments, keep your eyes on the kids because they have it goin’ on and our opinion matters to them. Just ask Zy - the organizing Certified Financial Officer (CFO) in training. And we doubt he even knew we were his students.

Warmest Regards, Mike Floyd 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.

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In this issue we hope to teach our readers about the new courthouse and its operations, a law firm that specializes in helping those with financial difficulties, the Tooth Caboose, a very special automobile dealer’s 100th anniversary, the community supported Relay for Life event and the retirement party for Pastor Don Mason of Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Once again, the issue is filled with the local flavor that makes Plant City so unique. Read, learn, know and share - your stories are always good.

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TALK OF THE TOWN

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

“MAN IN THE STREET” SCULPTURE EXHIBIT TO ENLIVEN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN Eight life-sized bronze sculptures from the “Man in the Street” collection of professional artist and sculptor J. Seward Johnson will be on display in and around Plant City’s historic downtown beginning Tuesday, May1, 2012, when the truck arrives about 8 AM at the “Depot”.

The painted bronze pieces will be on loan from The Sculpture Foundation, headquartered in Santa Monica, California, for the months of May, June, and July, of 2012, through an arrangement made by Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, with the sponsorship of the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Plant City, and the Arts Council of Plant City. The life-sized sculptures, weighing hundreds of pounds each, will be placed essentially throughout the Union Station/Depot and McCall Park area and are interactive in that people love to get up next to them, touch them, and have their photos taken with them. For more information contact the Photo Archives and History Center at 106 South Evers Street, 813.754.1578, or the website plantcityphotoarchives.org.

Area Youth to compete in Aquafina Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit & Run Competition

The Plant City Little League will host a free Aquafina Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit & Run Competition for area youth. April 28, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Mike Sansone Ball Park. All Participants must bring a copy of their birth certificate and fill out a registration/waiver form prior to the start of the competition. For questions concerning the competition, please contact Danny Coton at 813-763-8829.

Power of Parents “Creme de la Creme” A musical review Bring a date or the whole family to dinner and a live performance event featuring young local talent. Make plans now to attend “Crème de la Crème,” a musical review with dinner at The Brick House Café on May 4-5, 2012, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy popular tunes from the 40s through the 80s in the show produced by Al Cohen. Tickets for $22 can be purchased at Hardee’s Fashion Center, 1501 W. Wheeler Street in Plant City. Your support will be appreciated.

We care, DO you? Fearnow Insurance is conducting a MADD-Power of Parents luncheon on April 21st from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 11607 E. Dr. MLK Blvd, Seffner, FL 33584. Lunch will be served after the presentation. Let’s make a difference! The risks associated with underage drinking are sobering. Parental influence is the most important factor in keeping your children safe. RSVP required to attend so reserve your spot ASAP. 813-689-8878 www.fearnowins.com or info@fearnowins.com

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TALK OF THE TOWN

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

Woman’s Club Fundraiser to benefit Bruton Memorial Library

Woman’s Club of Plant City Fundraiser to benefit Bruton Memorial Library Thursday April 19th at 11:30 AM Luncheon and Informal Fashion show. Last year the Woman’s Club raised $2000.00 for the library. Let’s beat that amount this year. Join us and enjoy a great meal and see new fashions. Carrabas Italian Grill Tickets: $20.00 For more information please contact Jean Ann Eatman 813.752.3737

Join the PCHS Cosmetology Team for a Princess Makeover!! April 20th, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Plant City High School Cosmetology will be doing Princess Makeover’s for $10 each prior to Plant City’s Relay for Life. Sparkly Makeup, Nails Polished, Butterfly Face Paint. Butterfly Wand and Real Fairy Princess Crowning by the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. Sponsored by PCHS Cosmetology all proceeds benefit Relay for Life.

2012 Relay for Life

April 20 Plant City High School Track Opening Ceremony: Begins at 6:00 p.m. Survivor Lap: Begins at 6:30 p.m. Luminaria Ceremony: Begins at 9:00 p.m. Closing Ceremony: Begins at 11:30 a.m. April 21 No matter who you are, there’s a place for you at Relay. Each dollar you raise will help save lives. How far will you go to make a difference in the fight against cancer? Your reasons for walking in Relay For Life are as unique and special as the story that motivates you. This is your opportunity to not only honor cancer survivors and remember people we have lost, but also to raise funds and awareness to help save lives. Because of your support, we are creating a world where cancer can’t claim another year of anyone’s life. You are helping create a world with less cancer and more birthdays! For more information visit the relay for life website: www. relayforlife.org

Register for your Chance to Win!!!! Florida Strawberry Festival is Raffling off 2 Guitars! One Signed by Reba McEntire and one by Hank Williams Jr.

Tickets are $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. You can purchase tickets at the Florida Strawberry Festival office located at 303 North Lemon Street. Don’t delay, enter TODAY! All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society’s Plant City Relay for Life. Drawing will be held Saturday, April 21, at 9:00 a.m. at Plant City High School For more information contact the Festival office at 813.752.9194

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

Downtown Art Walk Join the artists of the ART lounge Gallery for our Downtown Art Walk Saturday April 21, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Our artists and other local artists will be setting up along Reynolds St. demonstrating various art forms and many will also be for sale. Come join us and enjoy watching ART in the making. Are you an artist interested in participating? There is a small participation fee of $10. Set up will start at 10 a.m. and we ask you stay until 5 p.m. Contact Beverly at the ART Lounge Gallery at 863.660.5322 or bfarley73@yahoo.com.

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

LOCAL » FOCUS

DIVAS GETAWAY 2012: THE PLANT CITY ABWA HOSTS LADIES’ NIGHT FOR A

Plant City ABWA and fundraising for women’s education.

“Although I’ve lived in Plant City for almost 23 years, I wanted to introduce the community to a product that I have fallen in love with, and this was a great opportunity to do that in a social way,”

GOOD CAUSE WRITTEN BY: TERRIKA MITCHELL he divas of Plant City and surrounding areas got dolled up for a night of treats at the American Business Women’s Association of Plant City’s 3rd annual “Diva Getaway” on March 31. Because the fundraiser’s popularity has grown so much in its first two years, it was moved this year to the 25,000 sq. foot Trinkle Center at the HCC campus. More than a dozen vendors and service providers skirted the walls of the “room turned lounge.” Booths on display represented businesses like Thirty-One Gifts, Riley’s Rhinestones, House of Envy Boutique and many more. Easy tunes, delicious eats, to-die-for raffle prizes and a picture slideshow were just

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

a few of the entertaining pleasantries for attendees, which included a few men. It wouldn’t have been a true ladies’ night without make-up, manicures and massages courtesy of The Artistry Salon and Spa, Quality Care Massage Clinic, Bleu Salon and Spa, Remedi Medispa and more service providers. Many women concluded that the evening was full of much-needed fun.

Veronica Prostko, a Nu Skin distributor at the event, is also one of the 10-year-old chapter’s founding members and a past president.

she added. “All of the AWBA fundraisers help women in some way; We really try to mentor the students and get them involved.” Civinettes from Plant City High School were also scattered throughout the room as volunteers for the benefit. “It feels good to help in the community and help these lovely ladies have fun,” Liliana Martinez, a Civinette, said.

“Women don’t have enough fun. Women need to get out and enjoy themselves. They have work. They have family. But they don’t have fun. This is all about fun,” one vendor said excitedly. There was a more important issue at hand, amid all of the evening’s fun. A portion of the proceeds from tickets went toward scholarships awarded by the

Vice President Jennifer Chamberlain, ABWA member Courtney Paat, Event Chairperson Rebecca Williams and members Natalie Sweet and Lizzette Sarria. Photo by Terrika Mitchell

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

LOCAL » FOCUS

STINGRAY CHEVROLET GIVES SO OTHERS MAY RECEIVE UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY WORKING IN AND FOR THEIR COMMUNITY WRITTEN BY: DALE BLISS

nity In the Community is not just the name of an organization comprised of people. Unity in this community called Plant City is made up of people who unite to give to those in need. Their belief in “charity begins at home” is shown and not just talked about in this caring town with an overabundance of need for helping our own. On March 22, 2012, founder Joyce Jordan Hooke accepted a check in the amount of $100,000 from Bill Hurley, owner of Stingray Chevrolet and current president

of Unity In the Community. A joint venture of the organizations of Unity In the Community, Stingray Chevrolet, the Florida Strawberry Festival and, most importantly, people, came together to raise funds to help with the many needs in our own hometown. “I want to thank everyone for their generosity. I also want to give a special thank you to Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Auto Trader and the Dealer Tag Agency for combining their efforts and raising five thousand dollars for this heartfelt cause,” Hurley said in humility.

Donna Minatee, owner of ticket number 422 and winner of the beautiful red Camero SS Convertible expressed her happiness by saying, “I just can’t believe it. But I am so glad to know that the money is going for such a good and much needed cause.” Minatee lives in Temple Terrace. Hurley presented the key to the bright red Camero at the Stingray Chevrolet location.

Unity in the Community board member Marsha Passmore offered these words of appreciation: “The partnership between Unity in the Community and Stingray Chevrolet’s owner Steve Hurley are paramount. He has truly Donna Minatee, winner accepting the moved the organization to the next keys from Steve Hurley, President of level in his commitment, and the Plant Unity in the Community. City area benefits greatly. Every dollar Photo by Dale Bliss raised is filtered through the non-profit He continued, “I’m proud to be part of organization to help others. What I find such an organization that believes in unique about Steve Hurley is that he never helping others in our own backyard. I was purposely brings attention to himself, but guessing about $85,000 had been collected. is always ready to credit others for doing Was I ever surprised!” the job.” This is the third year Stingray Chevrolet has given away a car to the winner of a drawing held at the Strawberry Festival.

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

LOCAL » FOCUS

Sheriff’s Office Recruitment Team: Detective Andea Davis, Detective Gary Denbigh, Sgt. Wes Luckey, Deputy Kristi Allen, Detective Jeremy Davis, Lt. Jim Bradford, Sgt. Ed Shea, Dt. Don Metcalf and Cpl. Dave Evarts

WANTED! T WRITTEN BY: KELLEIGH KLEIN

LAW ENFORCEMENT AND DETENTION DEPUTIES

he Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office (HCSO) is actively recruiting male and female Deputy Trainees. The HCSO is one of the ten largest Sheriff ’s offices nationwide and is seeking dedicated, ambitious individuals who can uphold their motto: “Serve, protect, and defend the community while preserving the rights and dignity of all.” Annually, the HCSO receives approximately 1,500 – 1,700 employment applications. According to Detective Jeremy Davis, the HCSO takes the recruitment and hiring process very seriously. Candidates go through a meticulous series of processes just to be invited to interview, and then more steps to continue through the recruitment process with the goal of gaining employment. Detective Davis adds, “The order of the recruitment process includes: Civil Service/fill out profile, invitation is sent for Physical Abilities Assessment (PAA), once passed PAA, invitation to submit application, assigned to a detective and all submitted items are processed, interview is scheduled, pre-background started, interview, polygraph, Wonderlic, writing sample, ride-a-long, ride-a-long

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

synopsis, Oral Board, references (personal, employment, neighborhood, agency checks, other), final report along with conditional offer and if accepted, final phone call and meeting with secretary who will set up final testing.” If a candidate does not pass any phase of the recruitment process they do not move forward. The entire process can take a month to two months depending on selection times and available academies.

$44,335.20. All applicants must meet the following: a United States citizen, 21 years of age, no illegal drug use of any kind in the past 36 months, no use of any tobacco products in the last 6 months, no more than 3 moving violations in the last 5 years, NO more than 5 moving violations, total, on driving history, no felony convictions, no misdemeanor convictions involving perjury, false statement or domestic violence. For Law Enforcement Applicants: A minimum of 60 semester hours from an

accredited college or university; or three years experience as a law enforcement officer; or three years active duty U.S. Military Service. For Detention Applicants: A High School Diploma or G.E.D. Certificate. For more information about a career in law enforcement with the Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office, visit www. joinhcso.com.

In a typically considered male-dominated profession, the HCSO is now focusing high energy on recruiting women to careers in law enforcement. Detective Andrea Eagon has been with the HCSO since February 2001. In a recent article in Tampa Woman she was asked “What do you love most about your job?” Her response was, “This line of work is very interesting. We are involved in situations that society is intrigued by, and we get to have an effect on the outcome of some of those scenarios. The most fulfilling part is being able to have an impact on someone’s life and knowing that you helped make a difference.” Starting pay for a Law Enforcement Deputy after training is $44,881.20 and for a Detention Deputy after training

Potential recruits performing sit ups as part of fitness testing criteria

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

LOCAL » FOCUS

Participants had an opportunity to take flight in this 1929 Ford tri-motor aircraft. Photo by Terrika Mitchell

Antique train exhibits were displayed in the airport’s hanger. Photo by Terrika Mitchell

PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES: THE CHAMBER-SPONSORED EVENT MAKES ITS SECOND SUCCESSFUL LANDING I

WRITTEN BY: TERRIKA MITCHELL

n its second year, Plant City’s Chamber of Commerce pulled out all the stops for its Planes, Trains and Automobiles event. The free family fun day was held March 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Plant City Airport.

The Chamber sponsors the event but they also partner with the Tampa International Airport, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and more. According to Chamber President Marion Smith, this year’s event attendance was double that of last year’s.

Antique plane fanatics were not the only ones taking flight. Children ages 8 to 17 participated in free flights in more modern aircrafts courtesy of the EAA. The real treat was for local Boy Scouts in attendance who got to earn their Railroad Merit Badges and Aviation Merit Badges. Volunteers taught navigation, runway labeling and layout and more at work stations that scouts were required to complete.

“They’ve really enjoyed the Aviation Merit Badge opportunity because it’s one of the more difficult to get,” said Brett Clancy, Scout Master of Troop 14. “A lot of times “We just expanded the event this year. it takes weeks and weeks to get the merit Something that is new is, through the badge because you have to coordinate with EAA, we were able to get the 1929 Ford different people who will teach them the tri-motor plane. There are only three left in various aspects. Here, we’ve got volunteers operation in the world.” at every table with everything they need to do here in one place.” According to Jason Swilley from Jarrett-Scott Ford, only nine tri-motor The entire experience was a one-stopFord planes were ever created. He says shop for transportation gurus. A range of partakers were in for a rare and rewarding antique cars like Ford trucks, Corvettes, opportunity by flying in the nineMustangs and others lined the lot. Live passenger aircraft. music, bouncing houses and food vendors were an added bonus for children and “It’s very rare to see this kind of plane in families. this part of the country too. They flew it from the Midwest to get it here,” he said. The Planes, Trains and Automobiles vision “When passengers come off, they have a originated with Chamber member and big smile on their face. Everyone really event Chairman Jason Jones whose son is enjoyed getting to see how the plane was fascinated with air craft. built and how primitive the plane is but that it’s still flying today.” “Noah loves planes and he points them out

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

all the time,” Jones said. “I was looking for a fun family event; then we decided let’s add something more than planes. Then we came up with planes and trains and the next thing we added were the automobiles, and that’s what we have here.” Plant City Police joined the festivities with a K-9 demonstration for interested viewers.

Jones was most thrilled to see the pleasant reactions and anticipates next year’s event. “A personal favorite is really just seeing all the kids out here having fun. Next year is a surprise but we’re going to possibly have something with jets. We’ll let that out in about six months,” he laughed.

Venture Scout Anthony Pallara (front) assisted Scount Masters Brett Clancy (left), Michael Baird (back center), and John Scarbrough (right) Photo by Terrika Mitchell

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

LOCAL » FOCUS be. Everyone’s hometown friendly spirit made me enjoy coming to work every day. I like being the go-to person for the citizens of Plant City and its employees.”

Photo by Robert Tilford

KERRI MILLER K WRITTEN BY: ROBERT TILFORD AND CHERYL JOHNSTON

erri Miller is a dedicated professional who serves our community in a vitally important role as City Clerk. Appointed by the City Commission and under the supervision of the City Manager, she serves both, as well as all administrative departments within Plant City.

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

CITY CLERK

Prior to her appointment April 20, 2009, she had worked in Plant City public service for 11 years, including positions as a legal secretary and Hillsborough County Public School bus driver for special needs children. Of the work she loves now, Miller says, “When I started working for the City, I felt I was finally where I was supposed to

Management Association (FRMA).

For relaxation with family and friends, this country music fan enjoys activities revolving around the beach, boating, Here follows a few of our City Clerk’s saltwater fishing and hunting. Married responsibilities: to Tim for 16 years, Miller said she’s - act as liason between civic organizations, “a very proud mother of three sons the public, and City Commission Chase, Preston and Austin - and two - manage/digitize/lawfully record all grandchildren.” She added, “I tell people records including official minutes that as a single man at 30, he really took - prepare/distribute all commission/ on a challenge marrying a woman with municipal code enforcement board agendas three kids. We came along and turned his - advertise ordinances, resolutions and nice, neat life upside down, so it must have public hearing notices been true love.” - administer/record oaths of office - maintain custody of the municipal seal, In this Relay for Life month, Kerri receipts for services and legal documents felt it was important to share a little - sign all official documents and update/ more personally to “raise awareness and maintain the city code encourage men over 40 to have the simple, - receive/process applications for volunteer life-saving blood test.” She explained, boards/committees “Tim was diagnosed in August, 2011 with - serve as community historian; handle prostate cancer and had surgery at age 45. public and Freedom of Information Act Thankfully, we have a very good support requests system through coworkers, family and - coordinate voter registration/election friends. Annually, one in 36 die with this activities with Hillsborough County second leading cause of death in American Supervisor of Elections, accept/review/ men. This is not an old man’s disease maintain candidate records and certify anymore.” results Miller calls her decision to work for Big job, right? Miller shared, “My biggest the City “a very positive and rewarding challenge is keeping up with law changes experience..” She added, “We have a great that affect recordkeeping to ensure the Commission that really cares about our City’s compliance, especially in this City and its employees. Plant City has paperless, social media era. Our office always been a loving caring community efficiency and information accessibility and a great place to work and raise a would not be possible without records family. I grew up here and plan to stay clerk Charlene Broome and administrative here.” assistant Shona Gadde. We are a team!” Visit Plant City’s webpage: http://www. Miller is a Certified Municipal Clerk, a plantcitygov.com/index.aspx, reach Kerri nationally accredited designation through via phone, 813-659-4200, or stop in at the International Institute for Municipal City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds, weekdays Clerks (IIMC). She holds memberships from 9-5. also in the Florida Association of City Clerks (FACC) and the Florida Records

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

Well, fortunately, FOCUS is offering a day like that for four lucky people. It is the magazine’s annual “Focus on you Makeover,” which rewards people with a day of pampering. So if you know anyone who deserves a makeover, FOCUS is here to make it happen with the help of other businesses in the community.

To nominate someone, send a 300-word letter describing why he or she deserves a makeover. It can be submitted via mail, e-mail, or fax. All nominations must be received by midnight May 15. Four winners will be chosen and notified on May 16. The Makeover will be held on May 18. Letters should be titled “Focus on you Makeover” and mailed to 702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant CIty, FL 33563 33563. Entries can also be e-mailed to editorial@floydpublications.com. Write “Focus on you Makeover” in the subject line and send the entry in the body of the e-mail – please, no attachments. Entries should include the name of the nominee and the nominator, along with the nominees address, home phone number, and work phone number. For faxing, call (813) 764-0990, Attn: DeDe.

Submit your nomination online at www.thefocusmagazine.com/makeover

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LOCAL » FOCUS After reciting the Scout Oath and Law from memory, he said reverently, “I did not go home and practice that. It is part of me. That’s what scouting taught us.” In conclusion, Captain Scott encouraged, “Whatever you do in life, reach for your stars, and the lessons and values of Scouting will teach you well.”

FRIENDS OF SCOUTING ANNUAL DINNER CELEBRATES FIVE NEW AND FRED JOHNSON AS DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN EAGLES T WRITTEN BY: DALE BLISS AND CHERYL JOHNSTON

he Friends of Scouting 9th Annual Distinguished Citizen Dinner event recognized five new Eagle Scouts on February 9, 2012 at the Trinkle Center. The group also honored Fred Johnson with this year’s Distinguished Citizen Award. NASA Astronaut and guest speaker Captain Winston E. Scott addressed a room filled with uniformed Scouts, their leaders, interesting displays, family and friends. With respect for an organization that upholds strong beliefs in God, country and family, each came to pay tribute to the young men who have achieved Scouting’s highest rank and to Johnson, a man who contributes so much to civic efforts in his hometown. A long time supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, Johnson has twice served as the Friends of Scouting chairman. These Eagles are: Alan Avelar, John Baird, and Ryan Stanton Cook of Troop 14 in Plant City (Scoutmaster Brett Clancy); Jacob Barr of Troop 734 in Springhead (Scoutmaster John Scarborough); and Benjamin Schulte of Troop 5 in Plant City (Scoutmaster Scott Hamilton). According to BSA, only four percent of

boys become Eagle Scouts, a title held for life that’s achieved through a process spanning five to six years. Scouts must earn at least 21 badges before they turn 18 and plan and accomplish a service project to benefit a school, religious institution or the community at large. For the fourth consecutive year, CF Industries was the event’s signature sponsor. Robert Ghent, CFI Community Affairs Director, along with Stefan Katzares, presented a check for $10,000 to the BSA, Gulf Ridge Council. Of this money, $1,000 benefits the James E. West endowment fund. The Gulf Ridge Council operates from Tampa but serves youth of Citrus, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco, Polk and Sumter Counties.

can’t find truth. This organization (BSA) trains these kids to be real men.” Captain Scott attributed his career choices in part to the lasting, valuable lessons experienced through BSA adventures, saying, “Characteristics you learn in scouting will serve you well in whatever you do in life.”

Molly Blanton, Gulf Ridge Council Timucua District Executive, expressed delight with the area’s support. “The Plant City community is very supportive of the Boy Scout movement. More than 300 youth and many dedicated volunteers are involved here in fourteen local troops.” She continued, “The great success of the annual Plant City Friends of Scouting Dinner is due to the hard work and dedication of the committee chaired this year by the Honorable Bill Dodson.” She also thanked the many generous supporters and contributors. Friends of Scouting Executive Committee member Dean Snyder, who began the annual fundraiser nine years ago, served with Dodson and co-chair/emcee Marsha Passmore. Brett Clancy and Dave Davenport coordinated with Scout leaders. Dodson reported later that the event raised a little over $50,000 for the Gulf Ridge Council. For details about local Scouting, contact Molly Blanton at 813-210-1788.

Dr. Hal Brewer, 2011 Distinguished Citizen, presented the 2012 award to Johnson, who in humility responded, “This is not about me; it’s about making boys into men who will serve and be leaders in our country.” He continued, “What and who truly deserves recognition is the organization and the Scoutmasters who keep it going.” Johnson spoke of the Eagles’ contributions to the community and referenced the morals taught in Scouting. He added, “Our world is crazy right now. It seems like you

Scouting “Distinguished Citizen” of 2012 - Fred Johnson Photo by: Cheryl Kuck FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

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MEMORY LANE JANELL JOHNSON REMINISCES ON HER CHILDHOOD IN PLANT CITY AS PART OF THE BING FAMILY WRITTEN BY: TERRIKA MITCHELL

ne historical family is leading the showcase of contributions toward preserving the history of what was once considered the “Black Downtown” of Plant City. As the city’s Laura Street area is revitalized, the Bing Rooming House Museum, according to Henry Johnson, will be, “somewhat of the centerpiece of the Laura Street redevelopment.” Johnson’s wife, Janell Johnson, is the granddaughter of Janie Bing who operated the rooming house during segregation. “This was the only place for African Americans to stay,” said Janell who is Bing’s maternal granddaughter. “So, for church conventions and any special events, this is where they would usually stay.” The house was recently renovated into a history museum after a nearly six year collaborative effort between the Improvement League of Plant City (on whose board the couple serves), many donors and the eldest grandson of the Bing family.

along with the Improvement League, took the lead in raising funds to renovate the house. It was almost torn down. If you had seen it, it was on stilts. The upstairs still has some of the old timbers. The entire bottom floor is brand new.” The couple says it has been exciting to watch the museum progress to the point it has. Henry Johnson says they were able to add a “flare of yesteryear” to the renovation—his wife more so than him. Janell Johnson contributed specific details about the house’s structure based on photographs from her childhood and having lived in the home until she was seven years old. “Every Sunday grandmother would cook dinner. This was just the place to get together,” she remembered. “It just brings back fond memories of childhood because all of the grandchildren gathered here. The room that’s now the restroom used to be my room. The rooms bring back memories.”

Janell Johnson, who was a member of the “It was a brain thrust of James Washington second class to integrate her high school, originally,” noted Henry Johnson. “[He], recalls several memories of the community

where she was raised. From being the only African American in a class to watching the Marshall High School Homecoming parade grace Laura Street, she now notes one change in the relationships between members of her hometown. It’s one toward acceptance. “For the younger generations especially, unless their parents or grandparents tell them about what happened when they were coming along, they don’t know about how we had to get books from other schools to be taught from,” Janell Johnson explained. These memories of the former blackbusiness metropolis are what the Bing family descendents and Improvement League intend to highlight throughout the museum. Area families have donated artifacts, as well as oral stories, to display the history of educators and more from the district. One significant educationalist to be featured is another member of the Bing family, E.L. Bing. The administrator is widely known for his contributions to the Hillsborough County school district– which included a Desegregation Plan to integrate public schools. The proposal was later adopted by the school board. “It’s the Bing House because of the family, but we really wanted to showcase families who contributed to the community,” said Mrs. Johnson, who is a school teacher at Lincoln Elementary IB School. “It really was a joint effort.”

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LOCAL » FOCUS

“...we didn’t do this alone. We did it with the help of loyal customers, faithful, long-term employees, supportive bankers, and our helpful vendors. They have made it easy to do business here.” Photo by: Cheryl Johnston

JARRETT-SCOTT FORD CELEBRATES 100 TO CENTRAL FLORIDA YEARS OF SERVICE T WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

he Jarrett-Scott Ford dealership, winner of 11 of Ford’s prestigious President’s Awards in the last 17 years, had even greater cause for celebration recently. The oldest Ford dealership in Florida threw a community party in honor of its 100th Anniversary in 2012. In 1995, the Jarrett family purchased the dealership on U.S. 92 at Park Road that was founded in 1912 by R. M. Fletcher. Today the Jarrett group has five Central Florida locations. Jarrett-Scott Ford is co-owned and managed by Jim Scott, the Michigan State graduate who was transferred here 16 years ago by Ford Motor Company.

Approximately 400 people were on hand to enjoy BBQ, cake, prize drawings and plenty of fun for the children - an event Scott described as “not really about selling today. It’s about celebrating what this community has meant to us.” Scott thoroughly enjoys living and serving in this “tight-knit community of great people.” He explained, “We have worked

hard in these tough economic times and this dealership has survived through the Great Depression to weather many other storms. But we didn’t do this alone. We did it with the help of loyal customers, faithful, long-term employees, supportive bankers, and our helpful vendors. They have made it easy to do business here.” The dealership and its 55 employees give generously to the community, too. A showroom bulletin board displays thank you letters from youth who showed livestock at the Strawberry Festival and received add-on donations from JarrettScott. The company also contributes to scholarships at the high school, supports events to benefit the United Food Bank, YMCA and South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation and sponsors local ball teams for the city’s various leagues. In addition to new and used vehicle sales, Jarrett-Scott Ford boasts a service department and body shop with state-ofthe-art paint booth to repair all makes and models from any manufacturer. The highly trained, long-term and very experienced staff take great pride in providing the company’s customers affordable vehicle

maintenance with award-winning precision and efficiency.

A popular sentiment among purchasers today is that the Ford brand has earned and deserves American loyalty because Ford Motor Company continues to grow and remain profitable without the benefit of government intervention.

In Plant City, Jarrett-Scott continues that

historical tradition of award-winning customer service. As they begin their second century, it’s the dealership’s hope that when shopping for our next vehicles, we would all “shop local.” Visit online at www.jarrettscottford.com, in person at 2000 East Baker Street, Plant City, FL 33563 or phone 813.752.4171 to shop, schedule service or be pre-approved for financing.

Photo by: Cheryl Johnston FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

LOCAL » FOCUS

Camryn Wineinger, Avery Laverne Surrency; Queen, Daisy Duke; First Maid Kennedy Morgan Sapp, Regan Messick Photo by Deanna Garrison

DAISY DUKE IS CROWNED 2012 LITTLE MISS PLANT CITY E WRITTEN BY: DEANA GARRISON

xcitement filled the Plant City High School auditorium March 31, 2012 as 46 young ladies, ages eight to ten, vied for the title of Little Miss Plant City.

Before the pageant began, each contestant met with judges to show off their personality. They walked in a few at a time to speak for just a few moments. Following the time when each participant walked on stage with great poise, the four judges were left with a very difficult decision to make. It takes such courage for girls at their age to speak in front of a large audience, but these lovely young ladies made the public speaking portion of the competition look easy. They displayed tremendous confidence and poise. Contestants introduced themselves and offered information about their age and grade level in school. During the modeling phase, the girls walked across the stage to show their beauty and poise. Flawless would be a good word to describe this segment of the evening. Intermission gave the audience a welcome break, during which they enjoyed an exciting dance number performed by last year’s beautiful queen and her court. Following intermission, two contestants were recognized with special awards.

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

Autumn Hope Miller was named Miss Congeniality, a title voted on by all contestants to recognize the friendliest girl. Madison Michele Harden won the Sponsorship Award for having sold the most program advertisements.

was crowned, her mouth dropped wide open. The daughter of Hollie and J.W. Duke said, “I was so excited” and described her experience in the pageant as, “a lot of fun.”

Other members of the court are: First Maid, Kennedy Morgan Sapp; Camryn Wineinger, Avery Laverne Surrency and Regan Messick. So now it begins - a year of making wonderful memories as these lovely young ladies represent Plant City at area functions. From the smiles on their faces it was obvious they can’t wait to get started.

The ten finalists, announced in no particular order, were: Mary Catherine Stephens, Camryn Wineinger, Alyssa Nicole Grines, Riley Buttorff, Regan Brooke Messick, Kennedy Morgan Sapp, Katlyn Yarborough, Daisy Duke, Kellieanne Kirkland, and Avery Laverne Surrency. Next it was time for more public speaking. Contestants had to answer the question, “Who is your hero and why?” Kennedy Sapp spoke about her Aunt Joan. She began by saying her hero didn’t save a woman from a burning building, cat from a tree, or catch a mugger on the street. She went on to say, “But man was she ever brave. She fought cancer and still managed to keep a smile on that sweet face. She was a great fighter and never complained, not one little bit…” Kennedy concluded by explaining that her aunt was now her guardian angel and added, “Man, she must be tired.” The competition’s finale is always the announcement of the five finalists and new queen. When eight-year-old Daisy Duke

Last year’s queen and court perform during intermission Photo by Deanna Garrison

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LOCAL » FOCUS though. That’s all that matters.” Her huge smile confirmed his comment. Jean Jent, the great grandmother of Jasmine, Austin, and Jordan Kennedy, watched as they caught several small fish. Jent laughed and said, “They don’t care how little or big, as long as it is a fish.” They may have gotten a few lines mingled, but they waited patiently as a family member got them fixed and ready to fish. Every participant received a goody bag filled with fishing supplies and fun items, so none went home empty handed. The total amount of fish caught at the derby was 99. The winners of each category received a rod and reel, tackle box, and a trophy. The winners are: The Derby Winners smile proudly. In back row from left to right are: Deborah Haldane, Zac Campbell, Tanner Chamberlin, Nathan Suarez, and T.J. Vail. In front row from left to right are: Jay Pacheco, Caleb Hammock, and Rylie Roark. Photo by: Deanna Garrison

ANNUAL FISHING DERBY HOSTED BY THE PCRPD T

Age 5-10 division: First Bass Caught, Jay Pacheco; Most Fish Caught, Rylie Roark; Biggest Fish, Caleb Hammock. Age 11-15 Division: Most Bass In One Day, Zac Campbell; Most Fish, Nathan Suarez; Biggest Fish, Tanner Chamberlin.

WRITTEN BY: DEANA GARRISON

he Plant City Recreation and Parks Department hosted their annual Fishing Derby Saturday, March 31st at the pond off of Gordon Food Service Drive.

This event is sponsored by T.J. Vail from Landshark Charters and co-sponsored by Tom Mahoney from TA Mahoney Marina in Tampa. Deborah Haldane, the program manager at PCRPD directed the event. The fishing derby has been a muchanticipated event by children for the past 20 years. In fact, the committee is now seeing the second generation of children show up to win just like their parents did when they were younger. They recall many faces during sign-ups each year. The 57 participants began fishing at 8:30 a.m. and had to pull everything in at 11:00 a.m. Each brought their own pole, bait of their choice, and a 5-gallon bucket to transport their catch to the weigh station. Many could bait their own hook and throw their line in like a pro.

It was fun to watch the younger participants smile and reel in a fish. With a great big, “LOOK” coming out of their mouths, accomplishment was written all over their faces. Some got plenty of bites but had no luck at hooking a catch. That didn’t stop them from having fun with their friends and family members.

The adults had a great time as well. Many sat back in their chairs as they watched the youngsters have a blast. Others had to pitch in to fix a problem or two but did it with a smile. As a participant caught a fish, they ran it up to the weigh station in their buckets, had it weighed, and then released it back into the pond. Sophie Estes, one of the younger participants was excited as she stood holding her pole with no hook at the end saying, “I caught a fish and it was so big it took my hook and got away.” Estes was there with Jason Swilley, who helped her fix her pole and get her fishing line back in the water. In the end she didn’t catch a fish, but Swilley said, “We had a good time

Tanner Chamberlin holds his winning fish. Chamberlin won the biggest fish caught in his division. Photo by: Deanna Garrison FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

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EGG DROP FESTIVAL 2012 P WRITTEN BY: CINDY DE LA PAZ

lant City’s First Baptist Church hosted its 6th Annual Egg Drop Festival on Saturday, April 7, 2012 at the south campus at 3309 James L. Redman Parkway.

As guests arrived, each received a New Testament Bible distributed by Gideons International members. Each child was also given a color-coded bag for collecting eggs with others in 15-minute intervals in the field area specific for their grade level.

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Live music was provided by First Baptist’s band, Overflow, which is led by David Morris.

As they waited for the “egg drop”, they enjoyed popcorn, snow cones (courtesy of Sonic), hot dogs, face-painting, a rock climbing wall, balloon sculptures and lots of laughs prompted by clowns Richard and his son Mylo.

Parking was especially well organized, with shuttles providing rides to the event entrance gate. This annual event would not be possible without the many sponsors and volunteers; many individuals also included members of Explorations Children’s Museum, Trinity Special Sportsman Ministry, The Faith Riders, the Plant City Fire and Sheriffs Departments and the Tampa Radio Control Aircraft Club (TRAC).

At 11:45 a.m. the excited youngsters and onlookers of all ages watched as 50,000 eggs were dropped from a hovering helicopter. What a sight - and thus began the scramble to find the most.

To continue the event of Resurrection weekend, Pastor Lewis has posted the answer to the question “WHY do we do what we do for the Egg Drop Festival?” on his blog at pastorlewis.blogspot.com.

While the egg hunt was definitely a delight Take some time to read the entire explanafor the kids, the main attraction of the day tion of First Baptist’s desire “to show love proved to be” The Trail of Miracles.” to the community and share the real meaning of Easter.” Family groups touring a shaded trail through the woods were escorted and In the end, it’s all about Christ and the addressed by representative Biblical ultimate sacrifice He made for all mankind. characters depicting the Easter story. For

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LOCAL » FOCUS the quick-witted Mason responded with “We can dance” to Sharon’s question about differences between the Baptist and Presbyterian denominations. Bruce continued with this high compliment: “In his own special way, Don took the lofty goal of living out a daily Christian life and made it reachable. He told us, in other words, that in a life suffused with the gospel, your spiritual life comes by naturally to you and you are spiritual in the natural areas of your life…He made me realize that no matter what, I could always do something for Christ, because Christ had already done so much for me.” The Kicklighters “dearly love” the pastor who performed their 1997 wedding ceremony. Dawn explained, “Don and Jo Ann have been instrumental in our lives, seeing our family through every major event in our marriage, including baptisms, loss of loved ones, sickness, and job changes. No words can adequately describe what their counsel, mentorship and friendship have meant.” Don and Jo Ann Mason have enjoyed 27 years of ministry together here in Plant City. Photo courtesy of Don Mason

PASTOR DON AND JO ANN MASON RETIRE FROM SERVICE TO EVANGELICAL

Julio A. Santana considers himself “blessed to know such a versatile and humble minister” as the “co-worker, friend and personal pastor” of 20 years. He explained, “Don Mason helped me in organizing the Bread of Life Mission programs’ first

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

he Evangelical Presbyterian Church will honor Pastor Don Mason and his wife Jo Ann as they retire from full time ministry on April 28, 2012 at a reception from 1:30-4:30 p.m. While the Masons have thoroughly enjoyed their 27 years in Plant City, they are also excited about the doors God has opened for this next life stage their friend Dr. Michael Lewis describes as a “spiritual re-deployment.” They will move to New Smyrna Beach, an area they discovered years ago when Don drove son Tommy and his friends to surf camp. EPC members are also familiar with how God affirmed through the Plant City home sale, east coast condo purchase and provision of an apartment for periodic

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

visits back to Plant City. The good news is that Pastor Don will be here several days a week to teach classes at the Evangelical University and Seminary downtown. Focus could probably fill an entire issue with heartwarming, appreciative sentiments of those who know the Masons well. Following are only a very few of the many expressed. EPC administrator and 44-year Presbyterian Church member Hank Sytsma called Don Mason “a great Bible teacher, Pastor and spiritual leader in the community.” Bruce and Sharon Herbitter described themselves as “hooked on the spot” when

Pastor Don Mason showing his skills on the waves. Photo courtesy of Don Mason

steps, and he is still doing it. Whenever I encounter tough issues, he is available to listen, offer guidance, counsel and to pray for and with me.” Ann Holz, with her late husband Kenny, shared a close friendship the Masons. She said, “Our families became friends, and more importantly, family. Together we have laughed, cried, played, worked and more. It has always been about being there for each other. As a friend and a mentor Don has been a rock, a man who can be counted on.” Pastor Mason, Dr. Lewis of Plant City’s First Baptist Church, and Pastor Robert Herrin of Plant City Church of God have forged an encouraging friendship through regular meetings. Herrin offered this: “Don Mason is one of Plant City’s valuable assets - a good and godly man and wonderful pastor. He is a barrel of fun, faithful husband and father. He is a confidant who is and will continue to be MY FRIEND. I love you, Don, and trust you enjoy your new deployment.” And many, many others, along with the Focus folks, agree. We know that as you continue to claim Proverbs 3:5-6, He will continue to direct your paths. Our wish for you is God’s very best.

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LOCAL » DID YOU KNOW

JOURNEY STORIES: STORIES OF AMERICANS, THEIR TRAVELS, AND EXPERIENCES (FOURTH IN A SERIES) SUBMITTED BY: PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES & HISTORY CENTER

y name is Henry Burke Yoho and I am an American. But I am also German, Swiss, Irish, Polish, Canadian, English, French, Native American and more. Many of my ancestors came to America centuries ago. I came into this world, an American, little more than a decade past and was named for just two of the thousands of my ancestral families: the Burkes and Yohos. My Yohos came to America from the German Palatinate. In the early part of

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

the 18th Century, Johannes Yoho—a wooden shoemaker—and his wife Susanna Catherine Lau lived in a small Alsatian village not far from the Rhine River. Johannes’ family had likely moved there years earlier from the German speaking region of Switzerland. My Yohos, Protestants, were probably victims of religious persecution by other Swiss Protestants. Life in the Palatinate wasn’t much, if any, better. Decades of war, political strife, decimated lands, weather disasters, and starvation were just some of the reasons people moved on. Like others

before them in the first mass migration of Germans to America, my Yohos travelled the Rhine to Rotterdam, secured passage on the snow ship Two Sisters, and survived months of perilous hardships on their voyage to Philadelphia, finally setting foot on the “Land of Opportunity” in September, 1738.

farmers in a dispute and subsequently lost his job for failing to collect rents. All the while, the Irish Potato Blight of 1845 coupled with famine and otherwise terrible living conditions launched the second wave of Irish immigration to America, (the first was the Scotch-Irish colonial immigration in the 18th century).

Johannes Yoho and his family settled first in eastern Pennsylvania in what was then Lancaster County. Many of their neighbors would have been fellow countrymen; by 1745 over 40,000 Germans had immigrated to Pennsylvania alone, with thousands more settling in the other colonies. By mid-century, Germans constituted one third of the American population, second only to the English. My Yohos moved westward, living in northern Virginia, western Pennsylvania, and in what is now West Virginia and Ohio. Three of Johannes’ sons, Peter, Henry, and John served in the American Revolution with the Virginia Militia.

In 1848, with misfortune at his heels, Thomas Burke looked to America as a solution to his jobless problem. He wasn’t alone. More than half a million Irish came to America in just the five years after the potato famine began. In the 1840s, the Irish constituted nearly half of all immigrants to America. Thomas and his family first settled in the Columbia and Rensselaer Counties area of New York, working in the paper industry there.

My forefather, John, the son of the original pioneer Johannes, settled in western Pennsylvania and a century-and-a-halflater gave rise to a sixth generation Yoho born in Pennsylvania: my Grandpa. Grandpa served as an Army infantry officer in World War II, ironically against the Germans. During the War he married my Grandma, an Army nurse from Lakeland. When the war was over they came to Plant City and Grandpa found a teaching job, beginning his lifelong career in public education. My dad, (Donald R. Yoho, Jr.), hails from Plant City. While serving in the Air Force, he met and married my mom. I was born an American citizen at the United States Air Force Hospital in Bitburg, Germany. In a sense, with my birth, my Yohos have come full circle—I was born less than 100 miles from where Johannes Yoho first began his journey to America! Since my father returned to his home in Plant City after he retired from the Air Force, I now call Plant City my home. My mother’s paternal grandmother, “Granny,” was a Burke and I am also a Burke—Henry Burke. Like my Yohos, my Burkes came to America many years ago. In the 1840s, Thomas Burke was a “middleman” land agent, probably for an English ruling class landlord, in Cashel, Tipperary County, Ireland. Legend reveals that Thomas sided with the peasant

In 1855 Thomas took his family and followed the railroad industry to Wisconsin. However, Thomas’ oldest son, also named Thomas, who at 20 years old came with his family to America, stayed behind in New York and farmed the land into the early 20th century. “Granny” Burke was just the second generation Burke born in the New World. She was actually born in Canada since her mother was Canadian, but like me she was born an American citizen by virtue of her American father. And just like her father and grandfather Burke, she lived most of her life in New York. Her son, my grandfather “Pop,” was a career Air Force pilot whose family eventually retired in Tampa after serving at MacDill Air Force Base. My mom was an Air Force “brat” and lived across America before moving to Tampa with her family. That’s where she met my dad when he was stationed at MacDill. My Burkes and Yohos came to America seeking a better life. They and their generations that followed found it in New York and Pennsylvania. In a very real sense, it was the military that brought my families from New York and Pennsylvania to Plant City. The end of World War II and the end of Army service brought Grandpa looking for work in Plant City. The end of an Air Force career brought “Pop” to Tampa. That led to Mom and Dad, and then to me, and then to all of us – all living in Plant City. My name is Henry Burke Yoho and I am an American. Plant City is my home.

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

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APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

East Hillsborough Courthouse

Dedication Begins New Era in Civil Service Story and Photos by Cheryl Johnston

Plant City took another giant step forward into the future with the official opening in December of a new two-story county courthouse on Michigan Avenue. The courts of the 13th Judicial Circuit and its related support functions now occupy the 60,000 square foot building. These support offices include the public defender, state attorney, sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office and the Clerk of the Circuit Court. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

The environmentally friendly and very attractive red brick structure was designed with energy-efficiency, security, functionality, and low maintenance costs in mind. According to those locals in the know, the new facility is definitely a mission accomplished. City Commissioner Bill Dodson, who is also Vice-Mayor of Plant City and former mayor, noted, “City officials have promoted the need for new courthouse facilities to service growth in East Hillsborough County for the past decade. Judges, attorneys, and courthouse employees also demonstrated the need for additional courtroom and office space. All involved in seeing this project through to completion have much to be proud of in this facility that will serve the area well for years to come.” Indeed, it was a combined concerted effort. When the County Commission asked the Plant City Commissioners to make recommendations for the project, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce formed an ad-hoc committee of attorneys, local business owners, and other interested parties, which met on several occasions to accomplish the detailed list. The courthouse project was funded entirely through state and county funds. Dodson confirmed, “There was no money spent of the city’s budget to fund construction cost.” Mayor Dan Raulerson also credits state legislators and county building officials for the accomplishment after 20 years of conversation and planning. Hillsborough County clerk and court system employees have worked in the former courthouse since 1958. On November 14, 2011 they moved across the street into the $10.2 million Plant City Courthouse at 301 N. Michigan Avenue and got right back to work serving the citizens who arrive each weekday to procure licenses, pay fines, apply

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

for passports, and all manner of legal business. Judy Dominguez, Director of Branch Operations for the Clerk of the Circuit Court (Hillsborough County, 13th Judicial Circuit), couldn’t be more pleased or more proud of the new workspace she oversees. The first-floor area for clerk activities more than doubles the former. She is also very proud of her staff and described them as “the best anywhere,” explaining, “They are outstanding and must switch hats all day long in their strong commitment to serve with excellence the residents of East Hillsborough County. It’s a team effort.” The building’s exterior complements City Hall and other historic district buildings, which was a special request of city officials. William Hand, AIA and the Courthouse Project Manager for Hillsborough County Real Estate, was pleased to have spent time with Plant City Commissioners during the design process and pleased that the red brick façade was accomplished. He said, “Even though the building’s exterior is more contemporary, it is designed to serve well now and for the next 50 years.” Some of those cost saving features include water-efficient plumbing and energy-efficient lighting. In the bathrooms, for example, hand dryers will save money over paper towels. Throughout the building, in order to reduce electricity usage, lights will turn on and off depending upon the motion in the room. Mike Bridenbach, Hillsborough County Court Administrator, acknowledged the state legislators, court administrators, and city officials for working closely together. He said, “There was great cooperation between state, county, and municipal officials to bring the building in on budget and on time.”

“City officials have promoted the need for new courthouse facilities to service growth in East Hillsborough County for the past decade. Judges, attorneys, and courthouse employees also demonstrated the need for additional courtroom and office space. All involved in seeing this project through to completion have much to be proud of in this facility that will serve the area well for years to come.”

He continued, “We are very excited because people seem to be happy. The facility is efficient, but not extravagant, and it meets the needs of county residents in an affordable manner.”

Hand explained, “The parking lot phase has already been funded, but this is just the beginning. Over time we want to replace the social services center next door facing Michigan.”

The new courthouse features enhanced security for the lock-up areas and the four courtrooms, which is one more than in the 1958 building. Mediation and hearing space is more than doubled. Provisions for technology are better as well. Visitors will also appreciate the welcoming warmth of cherry-toned interior doors and the clean, crispness of stainless steel handrails and elevators. Plenty of light is also a plus.

Hand added. “The new building is much more functional than the original 30,000 square foot courthouse. They basically had to live with a facility not specifically built for courthouse activity. The new courthouse was built as a multipurpose space for court business, the state attorney, public defender, and sheriff ’s officers that provide security.”

The Naples-based general contractor and construction management firm of Kraft Construction built the new facility. In its 40-year history, the company has specialized in commercial, educational, government, hospitality, medical and mixed-use multi-million dollar construction projects. Kraft is also known for its environmental stance. Plant City’s new courthouse meets the certification criteria the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). This nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings sets the standards high. The payoff in energy efficiency, however, is well worth the effort made by designers and contractors. Kraft was diligent in the use of recycled and regionally available materials.

Dominguez is especially pleased of the special spaces set up for passport applications and courthouse weddings. She said, “Local business was a consideration as well in the design process. Rather than a café for refreshments and lunches, the building has a small vending area. Hand explained, “We didn’t want to detract from the local restaurants that serve the downtown area so well already.” A salute to the strawberry industry is also permanently incorporated into the new structure. Inset into the main entrance portico’s floor is a strawberry blossom image in tones of yellow and gray.

Numerous state, county, and city officials attended the official dedication ceremony held December 9, 2011. Pat Frank, Clerk of the Circuit Court of the 13th Judicial District, aptly expressed a sense of pride in accomplishment for all involved in a job well done. Optimism permeated the beautiful new courthouse and overflowed outside for the According to Bridenbach, plans are also underway to expand services to Plant City. Dodson confirmed that the old courthouse will be removed from its current location and photo shoot commemorating a significant redbrick moment in our city’s history. Note the smiles in the photos - they say it all. the land re-used for parking to accommodate the courthouse.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

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APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

Judy ominguez Her Heart Beats for Civil Service Interview by Cheryl Johnston Photos by Tammy Smith and Tony Cartagena

udy Dominguez is a woman who loves her work and her community. As Director of

Branch Operations for the Clerk of the Circuit Court (Hillsborough Circuit Court, 13th Judicial Circuit), she is thrilled with the recent move across Michigan Avenue from the old courthouse to the brand new. The delight shows in her face and smile as she oversees the daily business affairs at the beautiful new facility. Dominguez lives in Walden Lake with her husband Jimmy, who is also a Hillsborough County Judge. The kind community and the caring people of Plant City add to their lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enjoyment, so here is where her heart is. Enjoy this inside look at a true civil servant and come away realizing that always, she and her staff have your best interests at heart.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

Focus: Thanks for your time and service, Judy. We know how proud you are of the county’s new courthouse in Plant City. Can you tell us how you came to work for Hillsborough County and began your now almost 34-year career in civil service? Dominguez: When I was in high school, Civil Service staffers came to my high school and tested everyone for possible employment opportunities. I passed the test, but was only 17 when I graduated, so I had to wait until I was 18 to apply. Focus: Prior to and in addition to your work here, what other companies have you worked with or for? Dominguez: I cashiered at Zayre’s until called by Civil Service to work for the Welfare Board at Tampa General Hospital for 2 ½ years. Then I worked at Western Union for a year and Pan American Bancshares Corp. for two years. I began with the Clerk of Circuit Court in 1978 and left to have my son, then came back in 1981 until the present. Focus: Tell us a little more about yourself and your family. Dominguez: I was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and graduated from Brandon High School after we moved to Florida. I moved here to Plant City in 1970. I have attended Hillsborough Community College and classes at the American Institute of Banking. My husband Jimmy, to whom I’ve been married 17 years, works as a County Judge. We have five grown children and 9 grandchildren (with another soon to be born). Focus: What do you enjoy about life in Plant City? Dominguez: The people, of course. There’s nothing like a small town. We have friends and family here. People are friendly and caring. It’s so nice to ride around and have people wave at you and smile. That just doesn’t happen in “big towns”. Focus: You mentioned possible retirement in the not-too-distant future. Where do you see yourself in five years? Dominguez: Retired but active. I have no plans to leave Plant City. My husband and I love to travel. We have been members of Sister Cities and have traveled with them to Spain several times and also to Sicily. My husband and I recently went to Italy and we want to go again because we had such a wonderful time. Focus: It is obvious you are passionate about your work. What aspects do you enjoy most? Dominguez: The variety of the work here in the Branch keeps you involved in all areas of the office. The ability to solve problems and stay within our mandates is very rewarding. The people I work with are great people. We are a team. We work together to meet all our challenges each day. The mandates change each year with the Legislative sessions and we have to work proactively to stay prepared to make the changes dictated. The public that comes to the Branch or any office of the clerk have needs that affect their lives, and it always makes you feel good when you’ve been able to deliver a service that can meet their needs. Focus: Aside from this work you love, how do you spend your time? Dominguez: Of course, I have my family and grandchildren that I love to spend time with. I am a member of the Krewe of the Unsinkable Molly Brown and involved in the parades each year. The Krewe supports charities such as Chair Scholars. Last, but not the least, I am an avid fisherman. I love being on the water. My husband and I have a place in Homosassa we enjoy. I’d also like to volunteer with the Strawberry Festival.

Beatrice Richardson presented Judy Dominguez with a “Berry Good” in 1989.

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

“The variety of the work here in the Branch keeps you involved in all areas of the office. The ability to solve problems and stay within our mandates is very rewarding.”

Focus: The compliments you paid to your staff when I asked about them impressed me. Can you share some of those thoughts with our readers? Dominguez: I always tell people that the Plant City employees have to be the best because they are responsible to learn and perform in many, if not all, of the areas of the Branch. We have all court divisions except Felony and Juvenile, along with the Board operations under the Clerk of Official Records, Marriage License, and Passports. Switching hats all day to work the front counter, prepare records, serve in courts, and docket all proceedings results demands flexibility. Employees in Official Records, Marriage License and Passports also switch from one function to another. They perform with professionalism and efficiency. All of these employees carry a great responsibility and they do a wonderful job for the public and the Branch. Focus: With regards to the move to the new courthouse, what has been a highlight thus far? Dominguez: Of course, the building is beautiful and we can finally all be together. We were in different rooms in the old courthouse. We have the new chapel now with accommodation for 14 guests for the ceremonies that will take place there. We have seating in our lobby area for customers to wait for service. The courtrooms are beautiful and most are larger. We are excited to offer more to area citizens. I’ve always loved coming to work, but in this new facility, work is an even more pleasant experience. Focus: Will you comment on the involvement of the city commissioners, local officials, business owners and Chamber members in this work to see the new courthouse dream come to fruition?

Dominguez: Yes, we have a very dedicated group of active and involved citizens who did anything and everything they could to move this dream forward. From the letters by Mayor Bill Dodson to Governor Jeb Bush in 2004 and from Mayor John Dicks to the Honorable Jim Norman, Chairman of the Hillsborough County Commission in 2005, to the city commissioners’ resolutions to the state for funding (159-2001 signed by then Mayor Mike Sparkman and 34-2008 signed by then Mayor Rick Lott), everyone has professionally served and represented Plant City well. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce was active as well. So many deserve to celebrate with us. Their support has been invaluable. Focus: Do you have some sage advice for folks considering a career in civil service? Dominguez: Just know that most Civil Service jobs are exactly what the name implies. You are truly a Civil Servant. You work with the Public every day. Most of the time you are the only one/place where they can go to get what they need. They need you to be knowledgeable and dedicated enough to deliver effective, efficient service with courtesy and professionalism. Sometimes they come to you at a low point in their life and you experience their frustration. Just remember that when you have helped them, although they may not show it at the time, they truly are grateful for your patience and understanding. Well spoken, Judy. It’s good to know that folks with true servants’ hearts are ready and willing to help folks in East Hillsborough County handle their needs for legal documents and judicial requirements.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

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SINKHOLES? ACCIDENTS? 1701 Jim Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563 813.719.6605 The Law Offices of Joseph M. Williams, P.A. offers legal representation in the areas of personal injury, wrongful death, small business litigation, contracts, estate planning, guardianship, family and criminal law. In addition to providing legal services, The Law Offices of Joseph M. Williams P.A. has been recognized for its community involvement and support throughout Plant City and the Tampa Bay area.

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APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

Tancredo Law Firm Works to Protect Your Assets Interview by Cheryl Johnston | Photography by Anthony Sassano

Chris Tancredo would like folks to know that “In this economic climate there need be no shame in financial difficulties.” He’d also like them to know that the Tancredo Law Firm is their best source for solutions. In fact, he explains, “Our mission is to help people out of stressful situations, to protect their assets and to use financial planning to their advantage.” He added, “We are very comfortable and confident in what we do and we definitely know what we’re doing.”

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

If you or anyone you know is experiencing legal difficulties, recommend Tancredo. Chris points out that legal options are available for everyone, no matter what their financial situation might be. He also recommends that people “be proactive” and explained, “Most people take the ostrich approach to financial troubles. They bury their heads in the sand until it’s too late. Our advice is to be fearless, to be realistic, and to be totally honest with your attorney. There is always a way you can work out your problems with the help of a good attorney.” Experience in the financial arena garnered by the Tancredo Law Firm staff provides a definite advantage to their clients. Chris explained, “We have a very good relationship with the Bankruptcy Trustees. We know our way around bankruptcy court and we know what the trustees expect and will do. I have appeared on behalf of clients in front of judges in Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Ft. Myers and South Florida.” Needless to say, the firm is very busy in today’s economically trying times. Chris himself works seven days most weeks and clients have his personal cell number. Most clients are referred. “One difference,” he offered, “is my ability and willingness to meet them at their convenience. When clients make an appointment with me, I will spend hours with them to make sure they have all the information they need.” He continued, “Our office is a very comfortable setting, much like a home. I believe that bankruptcy can be an excellent financial planning tool for some of my clients. And I’m in court every day, working to improve their situations.” Obviously, Chris could not continue this pace without the assistance of his excellent staff. These include office manager Kayle Wiggins, the mother and daughter legal

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

The Tancredo Law Firm represents individuals in a variety of areas of law, with a focus on financial matters, namely bankruptcy, defense of lawsuits by creditors, foreclosure defense and mortgage loan modifications.

assistant team of Sandra Ritchie and Jennifer Ritchie, and his wife Beth’s parents, Patsy and Bill Flink who handle the advertising and special project responsibilities.

college and built a business that my older sister still runs (Tancredo Foods). From them I learned creativity and strong work ethic.”

Since moving here at age 24, Chris Tancredo has thoroughly enjoyed the work he’s trained for, which is guiding others through the difficulties of divorce and financial turmoil. The St. Thomas University School of Law graduate, licensed in 1998, holds memberships in the Florida Bar Association as well as in the county bar organizations for Hillsborough, Pinellas and Broward. Additionally, he’s active with the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, a tremendous resource for his particular field of practice.

He also credits his wife Beth for her support and encouragement. As Manager of Physician Relations for South Florida Baptist Hospital, she also works long hours for many of the hospital’s outreach events. Her efforts have helped the Tancredos connect with many local families.

Tancredo credits an artistic mother and exceptionally hard-working father for his own success. “They supported me 100% in my chosen path while they put four kids through

Don’t hesitate. Be proactive and schedule an appointment with Tancredo Law Firm today. Chris promises, “We can help if you give us the chance.”

“And today,” said Chris, “I’m privileged to focus these strengths provided by my family on helping others to enjoy theirs, and life, more fully.”

Your Tancredo Team

Kayle Wiggins Office Manager

Jennifer Richie Legal Assistant

Sandra Richie Legal Assistant

Patsy Flink

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Tancredo Law Firm | 1306 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City, FL 33563 | 813.659.3612 FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida Show Guests stay overnight at special rate!

Bob Ryman

The Jarmels

MARCH 17 “THE FIDDLER” BOB A ST. PATRICK’S DAY BALLROOM DINNER SHOW

RYMAN

Come celebrate the event! Ryman is a master of the violin and takes you through a magical journey of the classics to country favorites. The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform. Car show in the afternoon and deck party with a St. Patty’s tradition of green beer before the show. Pre-show at 7–Main-show at 8.

MARCH 17 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MARCH 23 thru 24 DOO WOP WEEKEND EXTRAVAGANZA VI STARRING - BARBARA HARRIS & THE TOYS THE MYSTICS • THE LEGENDARY TEENAGERS JIMMY GALLAGHER OF THE PASSIONS • DESTINY THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS • BOB RYMAN The annual event is taking on its sixth year of fun, food, contest and great music from a bygone era. Friday night performances include: The Mystics, Jimmy Gallagher (lead singer of the Passions), Barbara Harris & The Toys and The Las Vegas Sounds. Saturday night performances include: The Mystics, Jimmy Gallagher, The Legendary

Teenagers and The Las Vegas Sounds Band will perform in the Ballroom. Bob Ryman will perform in the Dining Room.

MARCH 30 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

MARCH 31 BOB RYMAN

Bob Ryman is a master of the violin. Ryman plays favorites from Bluegrass to Broadway, from Country to Classics. Destiny before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

APRIL 6 BOBBY PALERMO

Bobby Bobby Palermo has been voted Tampa Bay Entertainer of the Year two years in a row. Enjoy a night of humour, impersonations and fabulously listenable and danceable music. Destiny opens and closes.

APRIL 7 TREY DEES AND

DESTINY

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

APRIL 8 EASTER

BUFFET

Our chefs are preparing a fabulous feast for you! The Easter Bunny will drop by for photos. Call for seating times and reservations.

APRIL 13 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

APRIL 14 THE JARMELS

The Jarmels are a Doo Wop/R&B group. Their single, “A Little Bit of Soap,” reached number 12 in America on the Billboard chart. Destiny opens and closes the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

APRIL 20 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

APRIL 21 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

APRIL 27 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

W W W. R E D R O S E I N N A N D S U I T E S . C O M

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

Red Rose Inn & Suites

I-4 Exit 21 2011 N. Wheeler St. • Plant City, FL 33563 Mrs. Evelyn Madonia -Owner

Brian Roman

The Marcels Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock ‘n Roll Revue

APRIL 28 SIMPLY STREISAND A TRIBUTE TO THE ARTISTY OF BARBRA STREISAND Starring Carla DelVillaggio, this AWARD WINNING Tribute Artist has the look and sound of “the Greatest Star,” the incomparable Barbra Streisand. From the hair down to the trademark nails, she is “Simply Streisand” in every way. Destiny performs before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MAY 4 BOBBY PALERMO Bobby Bobby Palermo has been voted Tampa Bay Entertainer of the Year two years in a row. Enjoy a night of humour, impersonations and fabulously listenable and danceable music. Destiny performs before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MAY 5 THE MARCELS In 1961 their first recording, “Blue Moon” sold over two and a half million copies. “Blue Moon” has been used in at least four major motion pictures and various TV shows, such as: Sha Na Na, Cheers, Moonlighting, Laverne & Shirley and Happy Days. Destiny opens and closes in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MAY 11 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

y l p m i S reisand St

MAY 12 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

MAY 18 BEAUTIFUL BOBBY BLACKMON & THE B3 BLUES BAND

Bobby Blackmon's career began in a small town not far from the Dallas, Texas area. His Texas blues influence is heard loud ‘n’ proud in his soulful guitar playing. He's worked with the likes of Barbara Lynn, Jimmy Reed, ZZ Hill, Johnny Taylor, Lavelle White and Lou Rawls. Destiny opens and closes in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MAY 19 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

MAY 25

BRIAN ROMAN One of Canada’s finest entertainers! Roman performs the classics – spanning the Golden Era, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones. Destiny also performs.

MAY 26 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

Call 813.752.3141 for Reservations Today!

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

KEPES RADIATION ONCOLOGY & K E S Y E H (Formally Known as Plant City Cancer Center)

·· IMRT IMRT ·· 33- Conformal Conformal ·· HDR HDR (High (High Dose Dose Rate) Rate) ·· Prostate Prostate Seed Seed Implants Implants ·· Accuboost Accuboost HDR HDR for for Breast Breast Cancer Cancer ·· Leizip Leizip for for Skin Skin Cancer Cancer

Randy V. Heysek, MD FACRO

HAYDE POT SPRING HAS SPRUNG!

Kathryn L. Kepes, MD FACRO

Heysek & Kepes Radiation Oncology Center We have changed our name to show who we are and what we do. We continue to provide personalized and state of the art care.

Pine Straw is the better alternative for your Flower Bedding as well! Termite and Bug resistant, and weed resistant is the best cost effective way to clean out flower beds. Giving a natural look to your Landscaping.

Call 813-719-7705 for appts/consultations 303 North Alexander Street, Plant City, FL (still located with South Florida Baptist Hospital)

BANKING THE WAY IT USED TO BE.

Plant City Ofﬁce 1804 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL 33563 Telephone (813) 659-1234 | Fax (813) 659-9134 Other Locations: Brandon, Lakeland, Tampa, and Winter Haven

Lobby Hours: Monday –Thursday 9:00am – 4:00 pm Friday 9:00am – 6:00pm Drive Thru Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00am – 6:00 pm 24 hour ATM in the Drive Thru Member FDIC

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APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

COASTAL, ALFALFA, COMPRESSED ALFALFA, TNA, COMPRESSED TIMOTHY, PERENNIAL PEANUT, & PINE SHAVINGS

1001 S. ALEXANDER ST. PLANT CITY, FL. 33563 (813) 478-1654 STORE HOURS: 7:00 AM TO 5:30 PM MON-FRI 7:00 AM TO 3:30 PM SATURDAY

BUSINESS » BUSINESS PROFILE and two office organizers is 15 years. Dr. Howell noted, “These ladies have very caring hearts and that shows even in their work outside the office to help those with needs in the community. They share our passion to serve others.” Because the Tooth Caboose offers the full range of sedation dentistry, other area dentists frequently refer the more difficult cases to Drs. Whitehead and Slavkin. These patients might be especially apprehensive or have special needs for which a certified pediatric anesthesiologist is required.

THE TOOTH CABOOSE COMPREHENSIVE, EXPERIENCED CARE FOR A LIFETIME OF SMILES WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

he Tooth Caboose has been a Plant City landmark since the mid-1980s when it arrived at its new permanent home at the corner of Thonotosassa Road and Baker Street. Dr. Howard Howell, DDS, established his orthodontic practice in 1977. After earning an undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Medical College of Virginia, the Plant City native and Plant City High School graduate was ready to return to his roots. Today the local practice boasts three highly regarded dental professionals in a “natural marriage of specialties” who frequently consult with regard to best treatment approaches for patients with difficult dental situations: Dr. Howell, an orthodontist, who treats children, adults and those with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders; Dr. Gene Whitehead, past

president of the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry and a board certified pediatric dentist; and Dr. Steve Slavkin, who joined the practice after 10 years as the Dental Executive Director of the Children’s Dental Program for Duval County, a general dentist with his practice limited to children.

Take the case of MaKenzie, 7, the homeschooled daughter of Rhonda and Jeff Tomlinson, for example. Rhonda shared, “Since MaKenzie started the free well-care visits at age 4, Sheri has done wonders. She spent lots of time showing and explaining the instruments to her. Now MaKenzie is no longer nervous and she feels right at home. They even allowed us to sit with her during treatments, which is very unusual in other practices. The staff and doctors are just awesome and everyone I talk to says the same thing. I always recommend The Tooth Caboose.” Karen Rodriguez feels the same way. She explained, “We came to the Tooth Caboose, where I’d had my orthodontic work done as a young adult, for help after my now 16-year-old daughter had a very traumatizing dental experience in Brandon at age two. They worked and worked with her, so patiently, to help her overcome her fears. She’s absolutely fearless now and the orthodontic results are beautiful. I highly recommend them and recently referred a friend whose son has Asperger’s Syndrome.”

Suzie Poppell agreed, explaining, “When our son, Cameron, who has Down Syndrome, first started treatment at the Tooth Caboose, he was fearful. But Dr. Slavkin and Dr. Howell and their staff have been patient and kind in helping Cameron. They listened to my concerns and suggestions on how to approach reassuring Cameron during a dental exam and he’s now comfortable and confident when he has his teeth cleaned. All of the dental assistants are excellent, but Cameron and dental assistant Sheri have a special trusting friendship and he looks forward to seeing her during his visits.” The Tooth Caboose dental team also performs adult orthodontics (braces), even two patients travel from London and Moscow to continue treatments here. Many drive over from Tampa, Lakeland and Brandon like Nancy Pistilli Hurst. She tells everyone, “Orthodontic work in my 50s to correct misalignment is the best money and time I’ve ever invested in myself.” At age 12, her son also asked to have braces and he too experienced great results. Hurst continued, “I love the staff. They have always worked with me to schedule around the dictates of my career as an attorney. They want you to have healthy, natural looking teeth. At no age do your teeth become less important. Visit the Tooth Caboose. These doctors can definitely help.” For consultation regarding which orthodontic appliances would best suit you or your child - Invisalign®, ClearCorrect or Traditional Braces - or to help your child overcome fear of dental treatment, call today. Great smiles are in your future.

The doctors are quick to recognize their “stellar staff.” Dr. Whitehead said, “Thanks to our talented staff and our gracious patients, we are now treating the third generation of many families.” Dr. Slavkin added, “This exceptionally experienced staff thoroughly enjoys making kids feel comfortable, relaxed and happy before I begin their specific procedure, which makes my job easy.”

CRITICAL INFORMATION

That’s probably why the average length of employment for the five orthodontic assistants, four pediatric dental assistants

2005 THONOTOSASSA RD # B PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813-754-2161 FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

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APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

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Polk Museum of Art presents

BUSINESS » EDWARD JONES

HIGHEST IN EMPLOYEE ADVISOR SATISFACTION AMONG FINANCIAL INVESTMENT FIRMS T

he J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Financial Advisor Satisfaction StudySM ranked Edward Jones Highest in Employee Advisor Satisfaction among Financial Investment Firms. Eight financial services firms ranked. This is the fourth time J.D. Power has conducted the study since 2007. “For us, this honor is particularly significant because it is based upon input from our financial advisors and reflects their satisfaction at Edward Jones,” said Managing Partner Jim Weddle. “Our 25-point score improvement over our previous ranking is a tremendous vote of confidence in our firm as a great place to work.” Edward Jones financial advisors gave the highest satisfaction ratings in seven of the nine study factors, which placed the firm 203 points ahead of the industry average and 37 points above its nearest competitor. Edward Jones performs particularly well in Firm Performance, Technology and People factors, according to the study. Edward Jones financial advisors also ranked the firm highest in Firm Performance, the highest-weighted factor in the study. “I am extremely gratified that our financial advisors report they have confidence in

our mission, our vision and our values,” Weddle said. “We are always striving for improvement, and these results validate our efforts. This is a wonderful tribute to the strength of our partnership and our culture.” Edward Jones scored 895 in technology – 61 points higher than its closest competitor and 24 points higher than previously. “This reflects our many recent investments in resources, systems and tools,” Weddle said. “Our financial advisors indicated that our technology’s integrated functionality supports the work they do to help meet the needs of the individual investor.” Weddle said he would like to thank the Edward Jones financial advisors for their tremendous confidence. “And congratulations to all our branch office administrators and home-office associates who support our financial advisors,” Weddle said. “These results make it clear that everything we do is aligned around one purpose: doing the best possible jobs for our clients as we strive to make a positive difference in their lives.” Edward Jones also ranked highest in the 2007 and 2010 studies and tied for the highest ranking in 2008. The study was not conducted in 2009 or 2011.

Albert Paley, Epoch (model/sketch), 2001-2005

SUBMITTED BY: EDWARD JONES

Albert Paley: Sketches & Steel March 31 — June 23, 2012 Sponsored by

and The Men of Iron

Exhibition-related merchandise available in The Shop at PMoA. 800 East Palmetto Street, Lakeland • 863.688.7743 www.PolkMuseumofArt.org Hours: Tue. - Sat. 10am - 5pm; Sun. 1-5pm; Closed Mon. and major holidays

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY APRIL 2012

BUSINESS Âť SUCCESS

RANDY WAINORIS

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE BUSINESS YOU ARE IN NOW?

We have always been interested in new homes. Even when we were college students, we would drive around to new home model centers and plan for our future by choosing floor plans and picking out colors. We met as high school sweethearts, and within six months of college graduation, we were married and became homeowners. Through the years, we have bought and sold many homes and helped friends and family with their home searches as well. Finally, about eight years ago, Kathleen became a Realtor and turned her hobby into a career. Very shortly thereafter, Randy joined her, and Team Wainoris began.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR YOUR FUTURE?

We look forward to working together as Team Wainoris for many years. We are so blessed that every year our real estate business keeps on growing. We moved our real estate practice to Superior Property Management and Sales LLC last year so we could offer our clients property management services in addition to first class service in buying and selling residential homes. We have raised our family here in Plant City since 1995, and hope to continue to grow our real estate business one client at a time.

WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST SUCCESSES?

We really enjoy the opportunity to help so many people who fell victim to

APRIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

the housing bubble collapse. With the substantial fall in home prices over the past few years, short sales have become our specialty. As an attorney, our clients are very comfortable allowing Randy to negotiate their short sales and work with the banks in this complicated market. It is wonderful when we can help friends and neighbors navigate through this complex real estate market and help them achieve their own goals and dreams.

WHAT ARE YOUR ASPIRATIONS?

Our real estate business has provided us with the ability to travel with family. We really enjoy traveling with our family and have been fortunate to vacation every year. In fact, to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary, we plan on taking an Alaskan cruise this summer! We have traveled across most of the continental United States with our three children, traveling from Maine to the Grand Canyon. However, our dream is to see Europe... but we will probably wait a few years until after the kids are gone!

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

We feel there is perhaps nothing more gratifying than helping a client through the entire complicated home buying and selling process and finally handing them the keys at the closing table. There is nothing like the smile of a new homeowner. We have always maintained that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sell houses to strangers; we sell homes to our friends. As long as we can keep putting smiles on faces and making new friends, we will be here to help our clients in this crazy real estate market.

SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS

June 18th - 22th, 2012 • June 25th - June 29th, 2012 July 9th - 13th, 2012 • July 16th - 20th, 2012 July 23rd - 27th, 2012 • August 6th - 10th, 2012 August 13th - 17th, 2012 Times: 10am - 2pm

Dr. Barry Gaffney welcomes

Dr. Jeremy Gaffney 2011 Graduate of the UAB School of Optometry.

Dr. Jeremy Gaffney graduated from Jesuit High School in Tampa and attended Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business. Jeremy then decided to pursue his Doctor of Optometry Degree and was accepted by the UAB School of Optometry in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Barry Gaffney also graduated from UAB and established his practice in Plant City 33 years ago. When his son told him of his intention to become an optometrist and join him in practice, Dr. Barry Gaffney made the decision to relocate his practice into a new building which would accommodate the growing practice. The new building at 2002 South Alexander Street has multiple exam rooms, a full optical, a contact lens training area and two rooms to house high tech diagnostic equipment used in both the identiﬁcation and preventive treatment of eye disease Dr. Jeremy Gaffney brings with him knowledge of the most recent innovations in the ﬁeld of medical optometry and is trained to provide quality eye care to every family member. He grew up in Plant City and looks foward to caring for area residents as his father has for the past 33 years.

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

Lorraine Ben Bennett YOUR Plant City Realtor

New Look... ? USINESS HOME B

8 ACRES

BIGGER IS BETTER… 6 BIG Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 4048 Sq Ft Home on 8 Acres in North East Plant City. Built in 2005. Open Floor Plan. Completely Tiled. Gorgeous Kitchen. Fireplace. Screened Porch. Metal Roof. Small Barn and Pole Barn. Large Screened Patio. Greenbelted. $390,000

ES 1.6 ACR

SOLD

NEW CONSTRUCTION… 5 Bedroom, 3 Bath, 3 Car Garage Home. Almost 3,000 Sq Ft. Just Completed. Granite Counters. 42” Cabinets. Stainless Steel Appliances. Beautiful 18” Tile throughout except Bedrooms. Very Open Floor Plan with 3-Way Split. Triple Sliders. Wonderful Neighborhood of Executive Style Homes. Builder will pay Closing Costs! $269,000

BUSINESS OR PLEASURE? HOW ABOUT BOTH??? RARE FIND… 4 B/R, 3 BATH 3377 SQ FT CUSTOM HOME ON 1+ ACRE W/ DETACHED 30X40 BUIILDING THAT CAN BE USED FOR A HOME OFFICE/WORKSHOP/MOTHER-IN-LAW SUITE; 30X16 UNDER A/C W/ A 24X30 GARAGE. BUILDER’S PERSONAL RESIDENCE – LOADED W/ UPGRADES: GOURMET KITCHEN, CROWN MOLDING THROUGHOUT, TWO TIER TRAY CEILINGS W/ CROWN MOLDING & LIGHTING, EXTRAVAGANT WINDOW CASINGS W/ CROWN MOLDING, BRICK PAVERED LANAI, HEATED LAGOON POOL & SPA, OUTDOOR KITCHEN, BUILT-IN ENTERTAINMENT CENTER W/ 65” FLAT SCREEN TV & 6.1 SURROUND SOUND, WHOLE HOUSE AUDIO, CLOSED CIRCUIT COLOR & INFRARED CAMERAS FOR SECURITY, AND SO MUCH MORE... $399,000

ERFECT MODEL P

SOLD

WALDEN LAKE... 4 B/R, 3 BATH, 3 CAR GARAGE NEWER HOME! BEAUTIFUL WOOD FLOORS IN FORMAL LIVING/ DINING ROOMS, OFFICE & MASTER B/R AREAS, DESIGNER CERAMIC TILE IN FAMILY ROOM, KITCHEN & BATHS. HUGE KITCHEN, GAS FIREPLACE, 3-WAY SPLIT FLOOR PLAN, LARGE SCREENED PATIO, NEW A/C TOO! $215,000

Same Great Service!

(813) 716-3997 64

AORIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

HARP 2.0 IS HERE! No Equity Refinance Program for Primary, Second, and Even Investment homes

Plant City Mortgage Corporation is offering NO EQUITY REFINANCE loans. Appraisals are NOT REQUIRED in most scenarios Reﬁnance to today’s lower interest rate despite having no equity With this aggressive new program you can literally reduce the number of years you owe on your home and with the same or less payment in many situations.

Nate Davis

Natasha Davis

President- Loan Ofﬁcer NMLS #294701

Vice President- Ofﬁce Manager

Carol Barton

Sherri Judah

Brandi Carlough

Heather DeVane

Administrator

Let me be very clear, if you do not take advantage of this window of opportunity, you are literally throwing your money away each month on needless interest payments Common Questions • So can you refinance a $300,000 loan on a home worth $50,000? Yes • I don’t have mortgage insurance now, do I have to add it since I am now over 80%? No • If I have mortgage insurance now, does it come off? No • Do I need an appraisal? In most cases yes, but in many cases they are waived. • Do I need to bring money for closing? In most cases not one penny. On Fannie Mae loans, you never do, on some Freddie Mac loans you may need to. • My lender (or whomever) said I am not eligible. Many lenders either do not participate in this program, or have their own self-imposed “overlays” that are simply not a requirement of the program. We have no overlays. • I don’t want to extend my loan out for another 30 years. You don’t have to. For example, should you do nothing at all and your current payment is say 1000 you have 24 years left on a 30 year mortgage (you have been paying for 6 years) , You can refinance to a 15 year mortgage OR refinance to a lower rate 30 year mortgage. New payment is 800. Keep sending in 1000 as you were before and pay your loan off YEARS sooner than the 24 years you were going to pay with the exact same money.

Administrator

Tom Roe

I am certain there are many, many more questions, and we can list them all, but give us a call at 813.707.6200 for answers. • Purchase loans • Reﬁnance Loans • First Time Home Buyer • HARP (NO Equity ) REFINANCE • VA LOANS • FHA LOANS • USDA LOANS

• Conventional LOANS • Primary Residences • Vacation Homes • Investment Homes • Reverse Mortgages • Mobile Homes • FHA/VA STREAMLINE REFINANCE

Administrator

Paul Pritt

Loan Ofﬁcer NMLS #327319

Loan Ofﬁcer NMLS #336840

Stephanie Donalson Swindle

Barbara Hall

Loan Ofﬁcer - NMLS #357527

Loan Ofﬁcer NMLS #338772

Jaida Davis

Paitlyn Davis

Ofﬁce Assistant

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

C O R P

Buster Davis Security

NMLS 289323

http://www.youtube.com/user/PLANTCITYMORTGAGE FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

REAL ESTATE » JO-ANN LUSK

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

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

Owned and Operated by Steve and Kathy Paul Thank you Plant City for 6 wonderful years of service!

Roaches • Ants • Spiders Carpenter Ants (inside & outside) Fleas and Ticks (inside and outside) Service tubes in the wall We’ll get the bugs moving in the right direction.

Steve with Walter Warren and Bud O’ Callaghan

www.homeprotectionpc.com • email: homepropc@gmail.com

3909 N. Keene Rd. • Plant City, FL 33565 Office: 813.757.6752 • Cell: 813.716.0623 66

AORIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

LOCAL MARKET T he first Quarter of 2012 has brought about slight changes in the Real Estate Market here in Plant City. At this time last year Short Sale and BankOwned Properties were easily 50% of the market inventory. Today that number is around 32% of the active inventory. Interestingly the Distressed properties (short sales, bank-owned) are still a major part of what is currently pending to close (62%) in addition to what has been sold in the last 6 months (63%). Most of 2011 was depleted of bank-owned/ foreclosure inventory; however, several lenders are beginning to release some of their inventories. The good news…many are selling as fast as they hit the market. Multiple offers are becoming more and more common as buyers and investors race for highest and best bids. Here is what the first Quarter looked like: Through March: Active Listings Sold

229 54

UPDATE

SUBMITTED BY: JO-ANN LUSK

Under Contract 85 Avg Days on Mkt 88 Avg Sq Ft Price $56 Inventory is down approximately 15% over the past 6 months; new listings are down close to 20% over the same period. Sales and Contracts Pended are up 35% and 49% respectively. When your Realtor keeps after you about the price of your home, its because the homes that are priced right, are selling. That’s not rocket science. I know many of you think that if inventory is down and demand is high, prices should increase. That may be true, but there are factors that are keeping things “in check” so that we don’t see things spike like years past. Forecasters predict a slight increase in prices over the next 2-3 years. Rental rates are also on the rise as demand increases due to tighter lending rules. In this market, if you can buy – you should buy. The monthly mortgage is more affordable than rent.

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

sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com | www.teamwainoris.com

Randall Wainoris 813-997-3000 REALTOR®/Attorney at Law

Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557 REALTOR® Notary

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WITH YOUR IRS REFUND?...INVEST IN REAL ESTATE! Looking for an investment that provides you both potential tax advantages and almost certain appreciation? Looking for an investment with immediate positive cash flow? Invest in real estate! With home prices so low, and with our strong local rental market, have you considered buying a home as an investment? Interest rates have never been so low. Maybe it is time to upgrade to your dream home? The possibilities are endless! Buying? Selling? Leasing? Call us here at Team Wainoris; we are here to help.

GREAT OPEN FLOOR PLAN Short sale: Great 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in wonderful location near Polk Parkway. Large kitchen and inside utility. Asking $74,900.

ALMOST NEW 5 BEDROOM HOME Open ﬂoor plan near Lakeland Square Mall. Master suite with garden tub, large island kitchen: short sale, asking $169,900.

BANK APPROVED DREAM! Stunning 5 bedroom 4 bath home on beautiful secluded lot with no deed restrictions. Gourmet kitchen, real wood ﬂooring, volume ceilings and so much more. Call today to see this incredible home. Bank approved price of $287,900.

WALDEN LAKE TWO STORY Add your ﬁnishing touches and a little TLC to this beautiful home with vaulted ceilings, brick ﬁreplace and granite counters and so much more. Short sale: asking $150,000.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

REAL ESTATE Âť WALDEN LAKE

WALDEN LAKE T

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting will be April 16th with a Presidentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; meeting right after. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents.

Marlene continues to do a great job of code enforcement of the deed restrictions in many of the neighborhoods. With the rainy season coming, she is hopeful that some of the lawn issues will resolve themselves. She continues to take on additional communities, with Clubhouse Woods and Aston Woods being one of the most recent. At the most recent meeting, the Board voted and approved the purchase of a golf cart for her use while doing inspection. As promised, the real estate statistics for the first quarter: In Walden Lake and Walden Lake East, there were 22 sales in the first quarter of 2012. The highest priced sale was one that was listed by me in Sutton Woods and sold for $250,000 and the lowest sale was a Bank Owned Villa that sold for $59,430. The average sale price in the first quarter of 2012 was $136,447. Four homes sold for less than $100,000, seventeen sold between $100,000 and $200,000 and one sold over $200,000. The average number of days on the market was 207, with the average list to sale price at 93%. The list to sale price is the list price of the home at the time it

AORIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

REVIEW SUBMITTED BY: NATALIE SWEET

went pending contract and does not take into consideration any price reductions from when it was originally listed. There are currently 41 active listings ranging from $99,900 to $799,900 and 33 listings pending contract ranging from $60,000 to $174,277. The Walden Lake sales information is deemed reliable and is the supported by data provided by the Multiple Listing Service. Lately, local agents are beginning to see many homes go pending contract quicker, especially when they are well priced, well staged homes in good condition. The food drive continues for the United Food Bank of Plant City. Any nonperishable food donations are greatly appreciated and can be dropped off at the HOA office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Walden Lake Golf & Country Club has Ladies Clinics on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m., and Junior Clinics on Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. You can sign up ahead of time to be sure you can join in or you can sign up the day of the clinic. Dinners in the main dining room are on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays, and the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month. A full calendar of events is posted on the website, www. waldenlakegolf.com. Come out and see all the improvements. Feel free to call me at 813-758-9586, if you have any questions on this article about real estate.

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Angel Miller Cathy Martin Natalie Sweet Natalie Sweet Angel Miller Angel Miller Cathy Martin Natalie Sweet 813-376-0891 813-546-9863 813-758-9586 REALTOR®

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Charming 3 Bedroom 2 Bath 2338 sq’ home on paved street with the charm of years gone by. Gleaming hard wood floors, high ceilings and so much more. $214,900

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You enjoy this 1632 sq’ home with 3 Bedrooms & 2 Baths, formal living and dining, family room & large fenced yard. Priced affordably at $129,900

Mrs. Clean lives in this wonderful 3 Bedroom 2 1/2 Bath home on cul-de-sac with complete master bath remodel, 2138 sq’ living area, great room w/fireplace and much more! $175,000

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As you enter through the glass doors you will notice the love & care this home has had. Quality remodeled kitchen w/Alder wood cabinets, huge lanai w/large bar, pavers, & beautiful pool w/a great view. $235,000

Lush Landscaping frames this beautiful home on 3/4 Acre. 3 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath, Family Room w/fireplace, loft that overlooks the family room, large screened pool and huge fenced yard. $199,900

Entertain in style in this lovely home set for large family gatherings & parties, featuring 4 large bedrooms, private office, sunken family room, huge pool & more. $325,000

Unique 2419 sq’ 3 bedroom, 3 bath home plus large office. This home is ready for your horses with a fabulous 3 stall barn & attached tack room w/water and electric, 3 paddocks & so much more. A must see at $239,900.

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What does the program really mean? Before HARP even existed, if you have a VA or FHA loan, you could, and still can refinance without an appraisal and regardless of value. But Now, if you have a Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac Backed loan and qualify, then you can refinance your loan to today’s lower rates REGARDLESS of how much you owe compared to today’s value.

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• So can you refinance a $300,000 loan on a home worth $50,000? Yes • I don’t have mortgage insurance now; do I have to add it since I am now over 80%? No

• If I have mortgage insurance now, does it come off? No • Do I need an appraisal? In most cases they can be waived. • Do I need to bring money for closing? In most cases not one penny. On Fannie Mae loans, you never do, on some Freddie Mac loans you may need to. • How long does it take? About 30 days, but the longer you wait the longer it will take since I suspect 15-20% of all Florida loans will be attempting to refinance around the same time and this will add to underwriting turn times. The quicker you are in, the better. • My lender (or whomever) said I am not eligible. Many lenders either do not participate in this program, or have their own self-imposed “overlays” that are simply not a requirement of the program. We have no overlays. • Can I make extra payments on the new loan and pay it off sooner? Yes.

Darby Hasting / Nephcure Foundation Teen/Adult Night Out Benefit

Mark your Calenders! May 19th, 6:00 P.M. Red Rose Ballroom! Great Food, Drinks and D.J. Fun for All Ages! Weekend Trip Giveaways, Dancing and A Great Way to Support a Beautiful 15-year-old Young Lady who is battling FSGS (an incurable disease)

Tickets for Adults are $50.00. (This includes Drink Tickets)

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Sponsors are Needed Please contact Julie Hasting (813) 695-1783 for Sponsorship information or any questions. Darby Hasting has a Fund set up at Bank Of America if you would graciously like to make a Donation. Darby was diagnosed with FSGS last year and this has taken quite a toll on her. Her Faith, Her Family, & Her Loving Friends have been a Huge Support system for Her. Unfortunatly it is not enough. There are Medical Bills and the Prescriptions will continue to take the rest of her life. She is also facing the possibility of a Kidney Transplant. We would like to see Our Sweet Community come together and make This Event a Success!

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

AORIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

SPORTS » FISHING Occasionally, Levi fishes with others, but his favorite partner is his dad, and over the past two years, they’ve added to Levi’s resume. Here are some of his accomplishments. Levi took first place with a total weight of 16.34 lbs. and also captured big bass honors with a lunker that weighed 8.39 lbs. in the Mosaic Bass Club tournament held on Crooked Lake. As a father-son team, the Browns captured first place with a total weight of 27.25 lbs. and took big bass honors one again with a weight of 8.35 lbs in the Accent Marine Trail Tournament. Levi has also earned another first, two seconds, two fourths, two fifths, one seventh, and one eighth place finish, as well as four more big bass honors highlighted by his invitation to compete last November in the Toyota Tundra Bassmasters National Series Championship in Manning, South Carolina.

Photo courtesy of Roger & Lori Brown

HOOKED ON FISHING O n most weekends at the crack of dawn, 19 year-old Levi Brown can be found on a lake in central Florida doing what he does best... fishing. It’s not a leisurely hobby that he indulges in because he has nothing to do. Fishing is what Levi wants to do for a living. He wants to be a professional bass angler and he is building his resume for the future. Levi, the son of Roger and Lori Brown, has been bass fishing for as long as he can remember, but several years ago, he made a decision to focus on the sport as a potential career. With a growing list of accomplishments, Brown is hoping to lure a sponsor that will come along beside him and back him in his quest to see his dream come true. In 2007, at age 14, Levi entered his first tournament on the Accent Marine Trail along with Roger as a father-son duo they titled “Team Wrecked It.” He still fishes

AORIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

LOCAL ANGLER PURSUES DREAM WRITTEN BY: JOE BOWLES

in those tournaments every month, but lately has added club events and open tournaments to his schedule. After that initial tournament, at the recommendation of family and some local anglers who recognized his potential, Levi was encouraged to join the Lakeland Junior Bassmasters Club. In 2009, he captured the club’s Angler of the Year award in the 15-18 year-old age division. That honor qualified him to compete in the Florida Junior Bassmasters Federation Nation Tournament held on Lake Toho near Kissimmee. Levi finished fifteenth of seventy-four entries. The next year, Levi finished as Co-Angler of the year and shared the title of Sportsman of the Year. In addition to his involvement with the Lakeland Bassmasters, Brown also holds memberships in the Florida Bass Federation Nation, the Mosaic Bass Club, the Walmart Bass Fishing League, the

FLW Everstart Series, and the Toyota Tundra Bassmasters Weekend Series (American Bass Anglers) with hopes of improving his knowledge, honing his skills, and attracting the attention of the public and possibly the eye of a potential backer.

Photo courtesy of Roger & Lori Brown

Levi’s previous sport was baseball. He played on the Plant City Planters AAU team that captured the Florida AAU 14-under State Championship in 2007. He was also a member of the Plant City High School Raiders baseball team before deciding to focus on fishing. He later transferred to Strawberry Crest where he graduated last year. Levi is very thankful for his family that has served as a source of encouragement and support as he continues to pursue his dream. Anyone interested in following Levi may go to the website he created at www.levibrownfishing.com.

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SPORTS » ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

WRITTEN BY: JOE BOWLES

CODY CHENEY I n the ninth grade Cody Cheney was told that he ought to join the wrestling team because it would make him a better football player. That bit of advice, four years later, led this month’s featured athlete to a second place finish in the recent Florida High School Wrestling Championships.

The son of David Cheney and Polly Fink (and the older brother of siblings Matt, Chase and McKenzie), Cody worked hard to learn wrestling. Because of his success and continued improvement, he gave up the gridiron at the end of his sophomore season to concentrate solely on wrestling. Every year Cody improved and he felt the improvement was linked to the offseason practices and the summer camps he attended. For the past several years, the Raiders have attended Appalachian State University wrestling camp. “We were always told that the more matches we had, the better wrestlers we’d become,” said Cheney. “What I like about Appalachian State is that in addition to their instruction, we’d get to wrestle about 20 matches, which is a lot more than at other college camps.” As a sophomore, he finished the year with a 35-15 record, coming on strong late in the season to take third place at the district tournament, fourth place at regionals, and a strong showing at the state tournament. His junior year started out well, but midway through the season, after compiling an impressive 22-2 record, Cody suffered an injury and was unable to compete the rest of the season. By the time this season rolled around, the 5’8” 170 lb. Plant City High School senior, determined to make a comeback, was stronger physically and more prepared mentally. The result was a phenomenal senior season. Cody finished with a 44-6 record and became the first Raider in over

AORIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

a decade to wrestle in a state championship final. The state tournament took place at the Lakeland Center on February 17-18, and Cody is still excited about the experience. “Just being there in front of all those people was exciting, but it was also nerve wracking at the same time. It was kinda cool having everyone watching you at the sport you excel in.” And Cody gave everyone present a show. He won his first match 5-1. His second match was a little more challenging, but he eventually put away his opponent, an AllWalton County selection by a score of 9-5. Cody had a little easier time in his third match keeping his opponent scoreless in a 4-0 victory, before losing in the finals. “Words can’t describe the enthusiasm and heart that Cody brought to every match,” remarked Kevin Wynne, whose son is one of Cody’s teammates. “His matches were the highlight of every meet. Spectators on both sides would stop to watch whenever Cody wrestled.” In addition to bringing a second place trophy back to Plant City, Cody helped lead the Raiders to a winning season. This was quite an accomplishment, considering the overall age of the team with a lot of inexperienced wrestlers and only three seniors. As Cody reminisced about the season he said, “I just want everyone to know how appreciative I am of everyone for all their support, especially all the parents who were there for us all year.” Following graduation, Cody plans to join the Army where he will be able to continue to wrestle. After he serves his country, he wants to wrestle in college and eventually coach the sport in high school.

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SPORTS » BEEF O’ BRADY’S, BASEBALL TEAM OF THE MONTH

2418 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL (813) 757-0300 WRITTEN BY: JOE BOWLES With just two weeks between the draft and the start of the season, the coaches chose to work primarily on fundamentals in preparation for opening day. Surprisingly, even with such a brief preseason, Magnum has been consistent all year. They started strong and other than one bad game, have remained that way, playing steady baseball all spring. “We had a great start to the season and we have played pretty solid so far,” Knotts remarked. “Everyone has been pretty consistent and lately we have started swinging the bats… we’ve been gaining confidence at the plate.”

Magnum players: Jacob Fuentes, Dawson Traffanstedt, Austin Kaczmarek, Colten Drawdy, Jack Sparkman, Michael Gaudet, Chase English, Jared Wingo, Brent Coton, Chris Rodriguez, and Jackson Knotts. Coaches: Andy Knotts and Danny Coton

BASEBALL TEAM OF THE MONTH MAGNUM PEST CONTROL O n Thursday April 5, in Plant City Little League competition, Magnum Pest Control captured a hard fought 8-6 victory over Hillsborough Title to solidify first place in Minor League (9 & 10 year-olds) action heading into the second half of the season and they looked like they were having fun doing so.

The Minors is divided into two leagues, the American and the National. Magnum is leading the National League, two games ahead of Southern Towing, and they possess the Minors’ best overall mark at 10-1.

For head coach Danny Coton, first place feels good, “It’s good to be where we’re at, but I’m just really happy for the boys. They’re having a lot of fun.”

According to Coton, Magnum’s formula for success wasn’t something that was planned out. It was something that just developed. Unlike the Majors and Juniors division, the Minors have a complete draft every year. So, there were no carryover players on the team from last season. What Coton and his assistant coaches Andy Knotts and Jim Wingo did was evaluate every player at the tryouts and then draft the best player available when it came their turn in each round. What they ended up

Coton teaches the importance of playing as a team. He is trying to develop every player into a leader. He wants everyone to understand that no one player can win or lose a game, but that baseball is about “everyone making a contribution.” This season, Coton chose not to single out individual accomplishments by awarding game balls to the “player of the game” following each contest, as some teams do. Instead, he feels that doing so, takes away from his “team” philosophy.

with was a team with pitching depth and speed on the bases.

“These boys get along with each other so well,” Coton proudly said. “They enjoy being together. There is no criticism… no “Unlike a lot of the teams in our league arguing. We pray before every game. If we that have had to rely on only two pitchers,” forget, the boys remind us. They’re having said Knotts, “we’ve had the luxury of fun.” having five pitchers - Chase English, Jared Wingo, Brent Coton, Chris Rodriguez, The regular season will wrap up in early and Jackson Knotts - which gives us an May, followed by the city tournament. advantage on the mound, but our strength Magnum players include Jacob Fuentes, is really on the bases. Nearly every kid on Dawson Traffanstedt, Austin Kaczmarek, our team is fast. When they get on base we Colten Drawdy, Jack Sparkman, Michael usually find a way to get them home.” Gaudet, Chase English, Jared Wingo, Brent Coton, Chris Rodriguez, and Indeed they do. Magnum has averaged Jackson Knotts. eight-and-a-half runs per contest while limiting their opponents to less than three.

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EXTRA » SENIOR OF THE MONTH

COLLEEN SHULMISTER SENIOR OF THE MONTH WRITTEN BY: JEREMY MINAYA

Orchestra, and designated Hillsborough All-County Band member all three years, earning 3rd, 1st, and 4th chair flute respectively. Shulmister has been distinguished as a Principal Flutist at both the University of Tampa and the University of Florida band camp; she was also the UT band camp scholarship recipient. In alignment with her passion for music, Shulmister also joined Plant City’s chorus, where she currently serves as the Soprano section leader. With her voice and acting talent, Colleen was selected to play Patty Simcox in the upcoming musical Grease.

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Shulmister gives back to the community whenever she can. Throughout high school, she has accumulated over 100 hours of community service by volunteering though the Leo Service Club, where she has served as Historian and Treasurer, and by mentoring peers who struggle academically.

Colleen’s hard work has proven to pay off. She won 1st place in both the St. Pete International Folk Festival essay competition and the VFW art contest last Ranked 11th in her class with a 6.155 GPA, Colleen has proven to be a dedicated year. This year, Shulmister won honorable mention in the Plant City Archives academic. This scholastic excellence provided her memberships in the National competition. She was also voted onto the Honor Society and the 1270 Club. She has Homecoming Court both her junior and senior year and has been selected as a also been distinguished as an AP Scholar Senior Superlative. with Honor Award and as a Tribune Scholar for ranking in the top 3% of the In her free time, Colleen holds down a 2012 graduating class. job in Dinosaur World. She is also selfemployed as a flute lessons instructor, For three years Colleen has been a teaching private lessons to beginner member of the PCHS Raider Band. musicians. During that time she earned the Most Outstanding Freshman award, the Best Overall Sophomore musician award, the Top Woodwind musician award, was recognized as Superior in both Solo and Ensemble all three years, and earned membership in the Florida Flute Association. She has also participated in the Patel Conservatory Junior Philharmonic and Youth Symphony

Next year Colleen plans to pursue a major in psychology at the University of Florida. She one day wants to become a Clinical Psychologist, helping people overcome traumas. Being both a strong leader and role model, Colleen is entering college next year with a confidence that will surely lead to success.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

EXTRA » SENIOR OF THE MONTH

PARTHICK PATEL SENIOR OF THE MONTH WRITTEN BY: JEREMY MINAYA

W HE

and State Medical math competition two years in a row; he then won 7th, and then 2nd place in the National Medical Math competition. Through Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where he serves as treasurer, Parthick has won 1st place in both the Regional Business Math and Parliamentary Procedures competitions. Patel has won 7th place in the Algebra II and 4th place in the Pre-Calculus Regional Math Competition. He also competes frequently with the Academic Team, as co-captain, and the science club, as past Vice President. For his diligence as secretary of Key Club last year Parthick earned recognition with the Regional Best Secretary Award. He also served as treasurer of the Best Buddies Club.

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arthick Patel pairs a strong academic drive with an even stronger knowledge of how he will achieve the esteemed goals he has set himself. Patel is truly the epitome of what hard work and dedication can do for a student. Academics are beyond significant to Parthick. Patel is graduating from PCHS as Salutatorian of his class with an 8.88 GPA (4.0 unweighted). He has an impressive overall SAT score of 2090 and a 32 ACT composite score. In addition to these prestigious academic accomplishment, Parthick has been listed on the Principal’s Honor Roll all four years, is a National Honor Society inductee, and he has earned him a four or higher in all his AP exams. He is also distinguished as both a Tribune Scholar and National AP Scholar.

Parthick has earned more than 300 hours of community service. Through Best Buddies, Parthick has dedicated much time to Special Olympics in the sports of volleyball, basketball, and bowling. Patel has also volunteered in the Physical Therapy and Surgery center at the South Florida Baptist Hospital. Parthick also holds down a part-time job as a cashier and stocker for the local Ambika Inc. and as a customer service representative for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers through the Student Ambassadors program. Through this ambassador program, Parthick attends monthly meetings and serves at public service events and Bucs’ home football games. In the upcoming years Parthick will attend the University of Miami to major in biochemistry through the Advance Program for Integrated Science and Math (PRISM). He plans eventually to become a neurosurgeon.

Parthick has joined various academic clubs Obviously, there is no argument - Parthick to showcase his knowledge. In Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), Patel’s future is very promising. Patel won first place in both Regional

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

EXTRA » AL REUCHEL and only collect if we win. Their take is close to 40 percent. And the insurance companies roll over when they see the lawyers get involved. I wish they were as afraid of me as they are the legal folks, maybe we could all save a bunch of money that way. So here’s the quandary! Why don’t the insurance companies pay to replace my vehicle...with a real vehicle of the same kind that I can drive and that has been cared for as well as I care for my vehicles no matter their mileage? Sure it is more than the three grand, but it has to be cheaper than hiring a bunch of your lawyers and mine to sit down and negotiate based on what might have been or could be medically! People seek legal counsel because they feel they are being taken advantage of. Maybe we just don’t understand how insurance works? Maybe we need re-educating about who covers what and why! Maybe we need to blow up the insurance industry and start over. Maybe I’m full of it and hope someone out there has gone through the same demoralizing process of “getting an insurance settlement” that feels more like a kiss from your sister than a company committed to actually helping you recover from an accident you didn’t cause and wish had never happened. Oh well!!!!!!

WHY PEOPLE SUE INSURANCE COMPANIES! W WRITTEN BY: AL REUCHEL

e got hit again! Yes, again. From behind! Let’s see with our four kids that’s about the fourth or fifth time. I’m not complaining too much because the injuries were minor in most cases, in some, not all.

Problem is we keep our vehicles a long time---like ten years. I change the oil often, keep the brakes tiptop, make sure nothing is leaking and keep the engine bay as grease free as possible. So inevitably when the insurance

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companies want to total our vehicles we get the shaft. Our van is a perfect example. Sure the Town and Country had 168-thousand miles-but I had put in about six thousand last year… trying to make the car run for another three or four years, if possible. It ran and drove smooth and quiet. My wife and I called it our retirement vehicle because without a car payment we could save for retirement. Now the back bumper is where the second row of seats once were. The lady was reaching for a tissue on the floor and creamed my wife at about 40 miles per

hour. And unless something unusual happens, I’m sure they will call with some sad story and write me a check for three grand, if I’m lucky. My claims guy, nice enough fellow, feels bad about it. That’s just the way it is. So, if you can get me my same vehicle with all my improvements for that three grand, I’ll be a happy camper. That vehicle doesn’t exist! They never do. Keep your vehicles and take care of them and you will lose every time. Enter the lawyers. They will take the case

“Why don’t the insurance companies pay to replace my vehicle... with a real vehicle of the same kind that I can drive and that has been cared for as well as I care for my vehicles no matter their mileage?”

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

EXTRA » DEREK MAUL His death was, in every sense of the word, a “holy” passage. The presence of God literally filled both the physical space and the hearts and minds of everyone present. My sense was that the reality of the holiness was evident to everyone, official “believer” or not. The truth of such an experience has enough gravity to transcend even the most deep-seated conviction or doubt.

GOD IS:

And that is really the point of my column today. God is. And God is all about the business of saving people. And by that I don’t mean the clichéd, formulaic version of salvation pushed by some. What I’m talking about is God’s constant invitation that we participate in the fullness of life, the “life that truly is life,” the new and living way of Jesus. Geoff ’s death, my brother’s passageway into the next stage of this journey, turns out to be more evidence of the life-charged life. There was so much living faith in that room with Geoff when he passed away that the very walls were crying out, “Peace!” “Love!” “Salvation!” “Rest!”

PARADOX:

It’s a difficult paradox, I’ll acknowledge, because that room was also loaded to the ceiling with grief, and sadness, and a sense of loss that will stay with those of us who love Geoff for a very long time.

WHEN DEATH IS A HOLY MOMENT T WRITTEN BY: DEREK MAUL

his month’s column is based on the blog I posted the day after my brother died, March 12. The message is poignant, and – I believe – important, so I wanted to share it with my FOCUS readers. This is going to be a hard column to do right. But I have to try. I process a lot of my life this way, through thinking out loud. And you, those readers curious enough to look over my shoulder, are a huge part of how I write and how I continue to grow. Thanks so much for being a part of me.

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I lost an important part of me around 8:15 Monday evening. My brother, Geoff, is just I headed down to his house Sunday plain gone. afternoon, and my privilege was to spend the next twenty-two hours doing Oh, I understand the fact that Geoff is absolutely everything in my power to serve and always will be - a critically important my brother and to bring into play every element of what it means to be a Maul, possible resource on his behalf. and I’m confident without question that he is now more alive than he has ever been Geoff ’s daughter, Hannah, and I were able to make sure that he completed this and in the presence of the God he loves particular phase of his journey in the so deeply. But Geoff is still gone, our lives comfort and security of the beautiful are still undeniably empty, our hearts are Tidewell Hospice facility in Ellenton. literally aching with grief, and our spirits He passed away in the evening, literally are heavy with sadness. surrounded by family and friends.

PASSAGE:

And so, “God-Speed” my brother. Thank you so very much for all the adventures, the laughter, the tears, the challenges, the irrepressible enthusiasm, the complications, the travels, the conversations, the insight, the honesty, the shared family, the broadening of my horizons (voluntary and otherwise!) and - most of all - the enduring love.

“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” - Romans 14:8

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

AORIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

PLANT CITY DRIVE-IN

EXTRA » ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Photo by Heather Davis

Cubearn BesAt W inn RC

6 :30am to 10 :00am

NEW EXTENDED HOURS!

Terrific Breakfast at Terrific Price! Sausage Gravy and Biscuits Meat, Egg and Cheese breakfast Cuban Premium Coffee 12oz. 70¢ plus tax For Lunch....Large sandwich menu Authentic Cuban Sandwiches (pressed on request) Extreme Fresh Salads Homemade Spanish Bean Soup Hand made Shakes

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1505 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563 We are open from 6:30a.m - 6:30p.m Mon - Sat. except Wed. we close at 5p.m.

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You can View our Menu online at www.Thestrawberryhut.com

Notice portions shrinking while prices increase?

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We’re still making it like we always have since 1993

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WE WON’T ASK YOU TO SUPER SIZE YOUR COMBO CAUSE IT ALREADY IS.

WHAT DO A PAIR OF SCISSORS AND AN ELEPHANT HAVE IN COMMON? S WRITTEN BY: HEATHER DAVIS

ome artists have a knack for taking art out of its box and turning it upside down on its head. Artists like Salvador Dali and even Dr. Seuss come immediately to mind. With artists like these two, what can be seen in one way can be seen in a totally different light, which broadens our perspective and open our minds to new possibilities. It is this new and fresh way of looking at things that sparked the imagination of student and artist Justice Bulerin. Justice is an eighth grade student whose favorite subject is the art class taught by at Mr. Edgemon at Tomlin Middle School. The teacher encourages his students to embark upon the creative process through various artistic projects. Recently one such project was the bringing together a list of objects and animals to create something unique. What called to Justice was an elephant and a pair of scissors. In place of where the elephant’s trunk would be, Justice placed a pair of scissors, resulting in what she calls a Scissorphant. This unique Scissorphant has since received a lot of attention. Justice’s artwork

was chosen to represent students of Hillsborough County Schools in an art contest held at the Salvador Dali Museum. Just to have the opportunity to be chosen for this special contest, which included students from many different schools, was in itself a victory. Recognition of Justice’s Scissorphant was further established when she earned the Merit award, the second highest prize awarded. Justice’s Scissorphant has been on display at the Salvador Dali Museum for a little over a month as part of the student exhibition. She also was able to attend an Awards Banquet held in her honor. When the young artist is not creating art or attending school, she enjoys spending time with family, cheerleading, and reading. Justice feels she wants to be able to help others express themselves through art. She hopes one day to pursue art as a career, possibly providing Art Therapy for children with special needs. Needless to say, it is a great encouragement to see the far-reaching benefits an art class and an encouraging teacher can have upon a student.

Plant City Entertainment, Inc. is proud to present our Spring Production

May 11,12,17,18 and 19 at 8:00 p.m., and a matinee on Sunday, May 13th at 2:00 p.m. This extraordinary comedy is under the direction of Kelley Gustafson and assistant director, Kay Secord. All performances are held at the Plant City Entertainment Community Theater located 101 North Thomas Street, Plant City, Fl. 33563. Ticket prices are Adults $14.00, Seniors and Students $12.00, and members and Groups of 10 or more are $10.00. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at Hardees Fashions on Wheeler street in Plant City, or at the door prior to performances. For more information consult our website at: www.pce-inc.com. The Red Velvet Cake War is a riotously funny Southern-Fried Comedy written by the Award-Winning writing team of Jesse Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. The play showcases the three Verdeen cousins (Gaynelle, Peaches, and Jimmie Wyvettte) who could not have picked a worse time to throw a family reunion. The cast includes: Jennifer Jackson, Mollie Anderson, Judy Barta, John Harrer, Robert Wagner, Jeri Scheller, Glenda Thurmond, Dana Welch, Tom Guerre, Nadine Guerre-Grimm, Tom Mitchell, and Lou Baird. Backstage crew includes: Linda Rembowski, Jeff Moranville, Carmen Wenczel, and Paul Hetrick.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

EXTRA » AUTO REVIEW

GOT WORK? T

hese days, if someone is shopping for a full-sized pickup, domestically there are three choices: Chevrolet, Ford or GMC. GMC is widely viewed as a Chevrolet, but with a nicer interior and a smoother ride. Sure, there are subtle differences in the styling, and that may be the biggest reason the Sierra ranks third among full-sized pickups. It’s simply due for makeover. The Sierra interior shines with trim packages that include wood grained enhancements, easy-to-read dash gauges and egonimically sound controls. I drove a crew cab model, which includes four full-sized doors and seating for five or six,

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2012 SIERRA IS HERE TO DELIVER

which basically shuts down some of the cylinders when they’re not needed in order to conserve fuel. The Sierra is also SUBMITTED BY: BRIAN WEST available with a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6, a 302-hp, 4.8-liter V-8, a Flex-fuel depending on the front seat configuration. variety of trims, including the base WT 315-hp (gas) or 326-hp (E85), 5.3-liter (Work Truck), SL, SLE, SLT, XFE and The front seat is available as a bench or V-8 and a Flex-fuel 403-hp, 6.2-liter V-8. Denali. It can be configured with regular, buckets. If you choose the bench seat option, you won’t find the same seat extended and crew cabs; short, regular and Each are available with four-speed or sixlong beds; and two, four, or all-wheel drive. speed automatic transmissions. (As a side from 20 years ago. GMC updated this note, the 2013 Sierra is rumored to have an The Denali package is the top-of-the-line configuration to include a fold-down for GMC and is most recognizable on the eight-speed automatic transmission.) center console that retains the look of bucket seats. When you’re ready, fold it up exterior by the honeycomb grill. Like other Of all the pickups I’ve driven, I must say to create space for that additional seat. The manufacturers, GMC also offers 20” and that the ride in the Sierra is the smoothest. one missing component was a place to plug 22” wheels. They’re pricey, but nice. It seems to float over the road. I could in my iPod/iPhone. Maybe next year. easily picture myself driving this truck over Under the hood, the Sierra has plenty of power for most any special assignment and long distances for trips to the mountains. The extra room offered in the crew cab is a bonus. Three 6-footers could easily fit the day-to-day driving most of us endure. in the back seat and everyone would have The Sierra offers five available suspensions, If you’re interested in a new Sierra, visit James Rivard GMC in Brandon on Hwy. room. There’s plenty of room for a growing including an off-road-oriented Z71 family. package and the NHT enhanced trailering 60 just east of I-75. package. The 5.3-liter V-8 features fuelsaving cylinder-deactivation technology, The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 comes in a

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

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ENTERTAINMENT » DINING PROFILE CRITICAL INFO 2405 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33566 (813) 759-0151 WWW.CHECKERS.COM whole staff knows the drill - “Champ Burger with mustard, pickle, onion and tomato.” How’s that for customer loyalty and customer service?

Photo by Cheryl Johnston

CHECKERS - QUALITY MEALS FEAST ON FOR A FAIR PRICE SERVED QUICK L WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

ittle did we know that lunch at Checkers could be such a joyfully informative experience. Even though we are regular customers, we had no idea so many others were as well.

Checkers has been a mainstay in Plant City for almost 20 years now and business here, according to General Manager Gail Gentry, is “very good.” She attributes that to the approximately 600 orders they serve daily and the 900-1,000 served on a busy Friday or Saturday. Considering that many orders serve more than one person, the estimates for numbers served could easily increase. Thirty employees work to serve the company’s loyal customers and the occasional “first-timer.” In all our visits here, including this one, we’ve never encountered an employee who wasn’t smiling. Hanna, who helped us on this day, couldn’t have been more pleasant. Her pride to be employed by the company for five years was obvious. We went hungry and tried to beat the noon lunch crowd. We ordered the “Medium Buffalo Wings” combo (because we’ve never tried Checkers wings and because they look delicious on the sign) and the “Champ Burger” combo. Within minutes and with food in hand, we headed over to the trademarked black-and-white

checkered outdoor tables. Perfect Florida springtime weather made this dining adventure a delight.

floats, Spoonbreakers, sundaes and cones in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and banana or combinations thereof.

What can we say except - oh, yeah! Few entrees are more satisfying than a great burger and tender, juicy sauce-covered wings. Checkers knows how to season food, too, and especially the fries - cooked to perfection with just the right amount of crunch and salt. Many people, including us, forego the ketchup with Checkers fries. It just isn’t necessary.

This trip’s highlight was learning about Jimmy, who comes daily (and has for 19 years) to pick up lunch for his 90-something-year-old grandfather. The

Gail had warned us about the “Crazy Good Wings,” which the website describes as “made fresh to order and popping with flavor - tossed and sauced in five flavors: Medium Buffalo (featuring Frank’s Redhot Buffalo Wings Sauce), Insanely Hot Angry Buffalo, Sweet ‘n Spicy Asian Kick, Honey BBQ, and Garlic Parmesan.” And you know what, Gail was right. We were especially impressed with the size and the tenderness of the meat that easily pulls away from the bone. Napkins are a necessity, but the flavor is so worth the little extra effort required to keep your mouth (and cheeks) clean.

About a year ago, our Checkers began to stay open late to accommodate customers who work through the night at Walmart, Taco Bell and the warehouses in the Park Road area. Gail reported, “We get a rush crowd between 2 and 3 a.m. It feels good to know we can satisfy the hunger of our hard working customers in the wee hours of the morning.” When we asked Gail the reasons that Plant City’s Checker’s one of Central Florida’s busier locations, she responded: “I think the people here are very down-toearth. They work hard and are careful with their money and they don’t particularly need fancy. They just want good food at a fair price. We’re convenient, we care and we want them to know we’re happy they’ve chosen to eat here.”

Pictured here are the popular and deliciously spicy “Medium Buffalo Wings”, served “Seriously Sauced” as their ad describes. Napkins will be necessary - and that’s a good thing. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

We wanted to order dessert, too, but honestly, there was just no room left in our bellies. So, an evening trip back was in order (and so worth it). The Oreo Sundae is a deal at $2.49, and delicious, too. Checkers offers creamy shakes, refreshing FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

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» DINING GUIDE

FIND DEALS ONLINE AT MYFOCUSCOUPONS.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT

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

KIM’S KAFE

ome visit Kim’s Kafe downtown from 11:30am-230pm Freshly Home made cooking with a variety of fresh soups, salads, sandwiches, and signature dishes with a little touch of love to get your day started.

Located In the heart of Plant city, Kim’s Kafe downtown is your next hot spot for lunch.

109 W. REYNOLDS ST PLANT CITY, FL 813-719-8922• WWW.NEXTTONEWFL.COM

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

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» 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 help her welcome back Executive Chef Riccardo Ciabatti! Enjoy an elegant setting and beautiful atmosphere for lunch or dinner. On Tuesday night we have a “Southern Buffet”, and on Wednesday night it’s “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.

2901 1/2 JAMES REDMAN PKWY. PLANT CITY, FL 33564 (813) 752-1971 • WWW.ZAXBYS.COM FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

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ENTERTAINMENT » RED ROSE from country to Sinatra to pop. Dennis, Bruce and Melissa welcome requests from guests and set the mood for anniversaries, birthdays, retirement parties and other special occasions. On a recent Saturday night Susan McCaughey was celebrating her 60th Birthday. Friends and family came from South Carolina, Orlando, Ft Myers and Valrico to help her celebrate. Most guests stayed overnight at the Red Rose Inn. Susan exclaimed, “Red Rose is awesome. It is the perfect place for my birthday celebration . . . great food, fabulous entertainment and a place for all my friends to stay. With this new menu I hope to come every weekend. I love it here!”

Mary Jane and Jim Stewart of Tampa enjoy coming to the Red Rose Dining Room to meet Mac and Cookie Smith of Plant City for dinner.

RED ROSE DINING ROOM Y ou asked for it and Mrs. Evelyn Madonia has delivered. The Red Rose Dining Room has a casual flair. The tuxedoes have disappeared in time for summer fun!

Guests can now feel comfortable dropping in for a quick bite or a dining experience in casual attire. Chef Riccardo Ciabatti has created a menu to cater to both. A children’s menu is also available for affordable family meals throughout the week. On a typical weekend or weeknight guests can enjoy a burger for $8.95 or a New York Strip for $26.45 with other choices in between to suit culinary preferences. Mrs. Madonia has created “real deals” that can compete with the likes of Groupon. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings an Early Bird Special offers 10% off from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. Beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays is the “Two for $25 Menu.” This special menu allows two guests to select one appetizer or one dessert to share, two salads and two entrees. The list of eight entrees is varied to please the most discerning palates. Of

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CASUAL AND FUN! WRITTEN BY: SHERRIE MUELLER

While Susan was celebrating with friends; Dan Hogan and Aileen Perlman were enjoying a casual night out. Dan commented, “We come to the Red Rose often. We love the diversity of the new menu. It’s great with reasonable prices. We’ve never had a bad meal at the Red Rose.” Aileen and Dan have been coming to the Red Rose since it opened in 2003 and love and appreciate all the changes. Thank You, Mrs. Evelyn for creating a fun atmosphere for guests to get together with friends and family and have a wonderful evening at affordable prices.

course the regular menu is available for those who want the full dining experience.

friends and keep up with the scores of favorite teams.

The fabulous Seafood and Prime Rib Buffet complete with crab legs, shrimp, oysters and a host of other culinary delights is still offered on Tuesdays for $32.95. Guests who would prefer a lighter meal may request items from the new menu.

Reservations may be made by calling 813Destiny will perform each Friday and 752-3141. The Red Rose Inn and Suites is Saturday night. This fabulous group can entertain guests with a wide range of music located off I-4 Exit 21 in Plant City.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights offer the new house menu plus daily specials. There is dancing music every night of the week except for Sunday and Monday evenings. The restaurant is closed for evening meals on Sunday and Monday. The Red Rose Dining Room now offers Happy Hour in the Dining Room from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Well drinks are 2 for 1. Enjoy specials in The Polo Club Lounge, as well. Guests may text Polo to 24587 and receive notice of the Polo Club’s weekly specials. Free appetizers, drink specials and more will be offered when a guest shows a valid text special to a bartender. Sports events are on the flatscreen televisions in the lounge area for those wanting to get with

Destiny plays every Friday and Saturday night at the Red Rose Dining Room.

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GROUP, P.A. Attorneys who truly care about you. Jodi Sue Rutstein, M.S.W., J.D. Mary Ann Scherer, R.N., J.D. Over 30 Combined Years of Adoption Experience. 1-800-852-0041 Confidential 24/7 (#133050&249025)

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 888-203-3179 www.CenturaOnline.com

NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAINS Seeking Developer to Purchase Beautiful 18 Lot Approved Subdivision. Underground Utilities, Was $810,000 Now $495,000 OBO Terms - Will Divide Moneymaker, Owner 706-374-1136

ADOPTION 866-633-0397 Unplanned Pregnancy? Provide your baby with a loving, financially secure family. Living/Medical/ Counseling expenses paid. Social worker on staff. Call compassionate attorney Lauren Feingold (FL Bar#0958107) 24/7

AVIATION MAINTENANCE / AVIONICS Graduate in 14 Months. FAA Approved; financial aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call National Aviation Academy Today! 1-800-6592080 or NAA.edu

OWNER WILL FINANCE. Bank or seller won’t finance? We help! No qualifying. No credit! Low Down. Call Today! 1-800-563-2734 kanthony@ cigrealty.com

Earn your high school diploma at home. Work at your own pace. First Coast Academy, nationally accredited. Call for free brochure, 1-800-658-1180, ext. 77. www.fcahighschool.org

W. KENTUCKY 3 Premier Hunting / Investment Farms. Wildlife Managed, Income, Excellent Building Sites, Timber, Road Frontage, Water & Electric, Beautiful Views. From $1,300/ac Owner 270-556-3576

*DIVORCE* BANKRUPTCY Starting at $65 *1 Signature Divorce *Missing Spouse Divorce “We Come to you!” 1-888-705-7221 Since1992

EARN YOUR HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Educators Inc. High School over 25 years of experience. Fully accredited. Use for College, Military, Trade School or Job. 1-800-590-9611 www.Eduhighschool.com

WESTERN CAROLINA REAL ESTATE Offering unbelievable deals on homes and land in the beautiful NC mountains. Call for free brochures, foreclosures, and area information. 800924-2635.

DIVORCE $50 - $240* Covers Child Support, Custody, and Visitation, Property, Debts, Name Change… Only One Signature Required! *Excludes govt. fees! 1-800-522-6000 Extn. 300 Baylor & Associates

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA From Home 6-8 Weeks Accredited Get A Diploma! Get A Job! Free Brochure 1-800-264-8330 www. diplomafromhome.com Benjamin Franklin High School

HEALTH/MEDICAL

ADOPTION 888-812-3678 All Expenses Paid. Choose a Loving, Financially Secure family for your child 24 Hrs 7 Days Caring & Confidential. Attorney Amy Hickman. (Lic. #832340)

KILL ROACHES & PALMETTO BUGS! Buy Harris Roach Tablets. Eliminate Bugs Guaranteed. Available at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot & Home Depot.com PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring adoption expert. You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866413-6298. License #100013125 ADOPTION Give your baby a loving, financially secure family. Living expenses paid. Call Attorney Charlotte Danciu 28 years experience. 1-800-395-5449 www.adoption-surrogacy.com FL Bar # 307084 ROOF REPAIRS ROOF OVERS Mobile Home Roof Specialist & Flat Roof. Free Insurance Inspections. Lic/Ins CCC1327406. All Florida Weatherproofing & Construction. 1-877-572-1019 SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation. 888-903-1353 JEWISH SURROGATE NEEDED for Orthodox Couple Please help us have our baby! Generous Compensation Paid. Call Attorney Charlotte Danciu 1-800-395-5449 FL Bar # 307084

EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-6283

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FREE WEBINAR Learn how to build a daily cash-flow machine w/profits of 80-90%, with residual income of hundreds, even thousands mthly. Join us @ www.smallbusinesswebinar.co

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a Free Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at No Cost, plus Free home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-377-3536 TAKE VIAGRA/ CIALIS? Save $500.00! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pills, for only-$99! +4-Bonus Pills FREE! #1 Male Enhancement. Discreet Shipping. Blue Pill Now. Call 1-888-800-1280

FINANCIAL

Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings $$$ ACCESS LAWSUIT Cash Now!! Injury Lawsuit Dragging? Need $500-$500,000++ within of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. 48/hours? Low rates Apply Now By Phone! 1-800- Call Today 888-372-6740 for $25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping. Prescriptions 568-8321. www.lawcapital.com Dispensed from Canada are Dispensed by: Health One Pharmacy. License Number: 21791 LAWSUIT CASH Auto Accident? All cases Qualify Get CASH before your case settles! Fast Approval. Low Fees. (866) 709-1100 or www.glofin.com

AUTOMOBILES

HELP WANTED NOW HIRING: Companies desperately need employees to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 weekly potential. Info. 1-985-646-1700 DEPT. FL-820

REAL ESTATE

American Auto Transporters Reliable Shipping of Your Car Member BBB, Guaranteed Rates, Pick up date and satisfaction Daily trips from Florida to NorthEast 1-800-800-2580 www.shipcar.com (Place Under Automobile Services) CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-871-9638

SPANISH SECTION

BOTTOM LINE PRICES - NORTH FLORIDA PROPERTIES 1/2 acre to 100 Acres. Call 1-800-294-2313 ext.2873 For information and ¡COMIENZA TU PROPIO NEGOCIO! Vende pictures 7 days a week 7-7, A Bar Sales Inc. por catálogo productos para el hogar. Llama sin costo 1.877.426.2627. CATALOGO GRATIS. FLORIDA KEYS Marathon. Luxurious Oceanfront vacation homes. 4-6 Bedrooms. Private Intima Hogar te da más. www.intimahogar.com Pool, hot tub, docks & more! Start Planning Your Spring & Summer Vacation Now! 1-888-5645800. www.american-paradise.com

MIDDLE GEORGIA Land Prices starting at $995 per acre. Thousands of acres available. Call for list 478-552-5681

(813) 707-9303

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Any Cone

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City Expires 5-15-12 (813) 707-9303

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Any Milkshake

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City Expires 5-15-12 (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

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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

THURSDAY, APRIL 19 » Business After Hours Hosted by: Mango Family Cleaners 5:15 p.m. 2404 Jim Redman Parkway For more information: 813.754.7768 » Woman’s Club of Plant City Fundraiser to benefit Bruton Memorial Library 11:30 a.m. Luncheon and Informal Fashion show. Last year the Woman’s Club raised $2000.00 for the library. Let’s beat that amount this year. Join us and enjoy a great meal and see new fashions. Carrabas Italian Grill Tickets: $20.00 For more information please contact Jean Ann Eatman 813.752.3737

FRIDAY, APRIL 20

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cherry St. Complex Guest coaches will be Christina Dovale and Former Webber International University Coach Julie Mulder along with several high school and college volunteers. Cost: $7.50 lunch will be provided For more information call Tommy Newberry 813.400.7525 » Downtown Art Walk 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 119 E. Reynolds Street For more information: www. theartloungegallery.com or find us on Facebook: The Art Lounge Gallery

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 » Administrative Professional’s Day

SATURDAY, MAY 5

» Children’s Classic Golf Tournament 11 a.m. Walden Lake Golf and Country Club For more information: Contact the Chamber 813.754.3707

» Bike Fest 5 p.m. You will not want to miss the next award-winning Bike Fest, featuring a bike show, music, food and merchandise vendors, a 50/50 drawing, and lots of » Relay for Life fun for the whole family. For Bike 6 p.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 21 Fest attendees, admission is FREE, Plant City High School Track and FREE parking is available on For more information: www.relayforlife. surrounding streets. org Historic Downtown Plant City For more information: Contact the Chamber 813.754.3707

SATURDAY, APRIL 21

» 15th Anniversary Strawberry Classic Car Show 4:00 p.m. Historic Downtown Plant City For more information: Contact the Chamber 813.754.3707 » Plant City Little League Girls Softball Clinic

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MAY 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19 » Plant City Entertainment Presents: The Red Velvet Cake War 8 p.m. with a 2 p.m. matinee on the 13th Tickets $10 for members and group advance sales, $14 general admission Tickets available at Hardee’s Fashion’s

1501 N. Wheeler Street 813.754.4929 Tickets also available at the door 101 N. Thomas Street For more information: www.plantcityentertainment.com

SATURDAY, MAY 12 » HOPE Ministries 7 a.m.-12 p.m. Children’s Spring Sale First Baptist Church 105 E. Baker Street Plant City Clothing, Books and Toys at very low prices. Benefits local missions For more information: Contact First Baptist Learning Center 813.754.1773

Red Rose Inn & Suites- Every Tuesday 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 Melissa Malone or Tony Johnson!

Red Rose Inn & Suites Sunday Famous Champagne Brunch Enjoy complimentary mimosas with » The Florida Opry prime rib and Georgia peach glazed 6 p.m. ham. Sweet potato casserole, crisp salad Great Family Entertainment - Bluegrass, creations and a host of fanciful desserts! Country and Gospel. Reserved seats $12, and General admission $10 (season Red Rose Inn & Suites-Weekdays ticket package available) Sensational Southern Style Lunch 1914 High School 605 N Collins Street Buffet Weekdays 11AM to 2PM For more information contact Shelby $13.95 or Christa 813-757-9226, info@ thefloridaopry.com or The Republican Club of Plant City www.floridaopry.net meets the 4th Tuesday of every month, 7:30 -9:00 am, at Buddy Freddy’s Restaurant, 1101 Goldfinch Drive, Plant City. The next meeting is March 27th. Cost of breakfast is $10 for members » Journey Stories / Smithsonian and $15 for non-members. Come Exhibition network with your neighbors in the Journey Stories is a compelling conservative movement. Smithsonian exhibition that shows how our evolving mobility changed a young Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade nation and how transportation made us Blvd., grow. Plant City A full schedule of Square and 106 South Evers Street, Plant City Round Dancing is happening every For more information call Plant City day at Strawberry Square. We Photo Archives at 813-754-1578 have many callers and cuers on the schedule. Visit our website: www. strawberrysquaredancing.com or call the office: 813-752-0491

MAY 26-JULY 7

ONGOING EVENTS

» Red Rose Inn and Suites Ongoing Events: Red Rose Inn and Suites- Every Monday Learn to Dance with Susan 7 to 9 p.m. Learn and easy, fun, and fast method to start dancing with any partner on any dance floor. No partner needed. Call: 863-604-5060 (Small fee)

ENTERTAINMENT » CROSSWORD

EASTER BUNNIES CREATED BY: CALVIN R. AND JACKIE MATHEWS EASTER ACROSS 1. Quarrel 5. Saudis & others 10. __ on; occurs to 15. First of zillions 19. Mixture 20. French impressionist 21. T. S. __ 22. Actress Loughlin 23. Easter elbows? 25. Easter loony bins? 27. Concorde: abbr. 28. Choir voice 29. St. Louis __ 30. Acting awards 31. Pamplona cries 32. Sediment 34. Spill the beans 36. Refuses to admit 39. Canadian bird 40. Onassis and Velshi 41. __-relief 44. Superstar 45. Paper asking hubby to do some jobs before Easter? 47. Sea eagle 48. Yanks’ foes 49. Spain’s King __ Carlos I 50. Desire 51. Huge land mass 52. 2nd-largest bird 53. Tuxedo sash for Easter? 57. Fish-eating mammal 58. Hightailed it 59. Mont Blanc, e.g. 60. Fertile spots 61. Digestible 62. Part of the neck 64. Healer 65. Stead 66. Fashions 68. Olds made from 1982-1996 69. Univ. near Dallas 70. Michelle Obama __ Robinson 73. Lent-opening distribution 74. Easter setup in which one always swims with a pal? 77. Titans’ org. 78. Asian nation 79. Bug’s nemesis 80. Cake decorator 81. Yorkshire’s river 82. Weapon 83. Easter comics? 87. Spotted 88. ENE plus 90° 89. Designer Cassini 90. In a cold way 91. Blood fluid 93. Grows gray

94. 95. 96. 99. 100. 101. 104. 107. 110. 111. 112. 113. 114. 115. 116. 117.

BUNNIES

Make right Lemon candy Busy U. S. airport Bad day for Julius Swedish auto Sphere Favorite “The Beverly Hillbillies” actor for an Easter TV viewer? Cashier’s check alternative on Easter? Old Atlanta arena Jumped Quickly Classroom helper To be in old Rome Took care of Hit the ceiling Nuisance

39. 40. 41. 42.

DOWN 1. Boo-hoos 2. Adder’s sign 3. Isn’t in street talk 4. Truck scale unit 5. Walks leisurely 6. 1977 TV mini-series 7. Part of A.D. 8. Speller’s chance to shine 9. Nov. 1 honorees 10. Lowered in value 11. Grads 12. Is victorious 13. Prefix for stop or sense 14. Where slop is served 1

43. 45. 46. 49. 51. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 61. 63. 64. 8

Meek as __ College bldg. National fighting force Feel the loss of Ivy League school Banquet Promising Lubricates English poet John __ Presidential nickname Like seawater Shopper’s paper More urgent Water accumulation “Light’s on, but there’s __”; dingbat’s mind on Easter? U. S. island territory Greenspan and Arkin Closest of pals on Easter? Lead character in “The Little Mermaid” Pitfall __ into; meet by chance Title holder Verne, for one In __; even, as a score Horn and Cod City on the Seine One of the Bee Gees “__ directed”; advice on a bottle label Hatred Bugs’ enemy Pub orders Williams or Crawford 9

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87 91

99 106

50 54

Casa rooms Rulers of old Giving hints Geneviève and Thérèse: abbr. __ Zimbalist, Jr. Actress Verdugo Curses Give in See the future in a crystal ball Regulation Urgent letters One over par Olive stuffing Big hearts Piece of jewelry Said the rosary Gray wolf Palmer, to pals Skilled Twist or minuet Double-reed Droning sounds Jillian & others “__ Three Ships” Obstacle Cartoon pooch Cincinnati __ Writer Harte Rail systems Arthur, for one Forbid entry to “__ Lazy River” Knock

79. 81. 83. 84. 85. 86. 91. 92. 93. 94. 95. 96. 97. 98. 99. 100. 101. 102. 103. 105. 106. 107. 108. 109.

71. 72. 74. 75. 76.

66. 67. 68. 69.

by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews 15. 16. 17. 18. 24. 26. 29. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38.

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O B O E

H U M S T S A R S

S A L A S

E D E M A

D I R E R S O B S

P L U S

A N N S N O B U N N Y H O M E A I N T

T A O M N Y B A L O L E I E S L S J C U A L A P E L E S E S S R B U O L A G E R E N Y E I L E S

R A B S O N E T O N E S T O S D R G O O B U N N U A N M M E R P O C U C I E B U N N A I D N N Y P E G I S A M I D E B S E N E A P T A W T O

A C E S B A R R Y R O S Y

D AW N E L I O B U N N A M S S S B E A R D O L I W A N U N N Y S E S E R A S S Y S T I C E P E R S I L Y N D D S A B U N N A P A C R A G E

Easter Bunnies

P R A Y E D E L M E R L I S T S T Y

A D A L O R F A R M E M M Y A B S B A T E R A S I O T T E D I B L I E U U N E M N F A I R S E E L A S M O P B O R O R D E A I D P E S

B R E T E L E N A S N A R E M I S S

Beginning in April Fall Preschool Registration 2012-2013 School Year

First Presbyterian Learning Center CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL PROGRAM AGES INFANTS-4 -Low Classroom Ratios -Christian Curriculum & Environment -All Staff Accredited -Full Day, 3 Day, 1/2 Day programs offered -Summer Program for Infants - 7 years

404 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, FL 33563

813-752-6874

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AORIL 2012 focusplantcity.com

All Staff Accredited

‘‘We trust South Florida Baptist Hospital to take care of our family.’’ - Melissa and Brad Palmer Tampa, FL

Our acclaimed scope of services includes: • Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. Heart and Vascular Center • Jim and Ruby Jean Redman Emergency Center/First Care • Pete Beaty Surgical Center • Diagnostic Imaging Center

• Swindle Imaging Center • Bone, Joint and Reconstructive Center • Complete women’s services

For a free physician referral or more information:

(813) 644-6738

• Cardiac, pulmonary and physical rehabilitation

BC120110-0112

301 N. Alexander St. | Plant City

SouthFloridaBaptist.com

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AORIL 2012

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Life is better in the Quick Lane. Auto service just got better!

813-757-6429

Quick Lane® at Jarrett-Scott Ford provides all the services your car or truck needs most. All our services are performed by factory-trained experts and on your schedule. No appointment necessary and you’ll get service while you wait, even on evenings and weekends. We’ll take care of any make or model, using quality parts from trusted brands like Motorcraft® and name-brand tires from Goodyear, Continental, Michelin and more.

THE WORKS PACKAGE

2 OR 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENTS

$20

OFF

Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Shop supplies and installation extra

19.95

after $10.00 mail in rebate

Includes up to 7 quarts of synthetic blend oil, 31 point VCU inspection, Check and top off all ﬂuids, Tire presure check, Balance check, Four Tire rotation

Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Shop supplies and tax extra. Most cars and light trucks excludes diesels. Expires 5/15/12

2000 East Baker Street Plant City, FL 33563 Service Hours Mon-Fri 7am-7pm Sat 7am-3pm

50.00 OFF PARTS AND SERVICE.

Cannot be used for parts only, collision work or tires. Savings not to exceed 10 percent of total parts and labor Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Shop supplies and tax extra.

ALL MAKES AND MODELS! WE’LL BEAT YOUR BEST TIRE PRICE GUARANTEED!

Jarrett Scott Ford of Plant City is among an elite group of Ford and Lincoln dealerships to be recognized with the President’s Award by Ford Motor Company. The prestigious award honors dealerships that have excelled in automotive retailing, by providing exceptional customer service and satisfaction. “Earning this award is a reﬂection of our entire staff’s commitment to delivering the best customer experience possible” says Jarrett Scott Ford. “We couldn’t be more proud to receive this recognition, especially since it comes from the people we value most – our customers. They’re the reason we were able to achieve this award.”

800-545-2018 • 2000 East Baker St,.Plant City, FL 33563

www.JarrettScottFord.com

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